Hong Kong: Christopher Hui to visit Qatar, Egypt Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui will leave Hong Kong tomorrow on a visit to Qatar and Egypt, and will return to the city on September 27. Mr Hui will visit Doha to strengthen Hong Kongs ties with Qatar. While in Egypt, he will attend a meeting of the Board of Directors of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), in Cairo, and the eighth annual meeting of the banks Board of Governors, in Sharm El Sheikh. At the Board of Governors meeting, officials and leaders from around the world will discuss ways of supporting demand for sustainable infrastructure against a backdrop of global climate concerns and the associated challenges faced by the banks members. Mr Hui will meet senior financial officials, as well as representatives from financial regulators and major financial institutions, in the two countries. In Egypt, he will also meet the management of the AIIB and other financial officials attending the meetings. During his absence, Under Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Joseph Chan will be Acting Secretary. This story has been published on: 2023-09-18. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. China-ASEAN relations are most successful, dynamic model in Asia-Pacific cooperation: Chinese premier Xinhua) 10:29, September 18, 2023 Chinese Premier Li Qiang addresses the opening ceremony of the 20th China-ASEAN Expo and the 20th China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit in Nanning, the capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Sept. 17, 2023. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei) NANNING, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Sunday said that China-ASEAN relations have become the most successful and dynamic model in regional Asia-Pacific cooperation, and a clear example of how to promote the construction of a community with a shared future for all. Li made the remarks at the opening ceremony of the 20th China-ASEAN Expo and the 20th China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit in Nanning, the capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Li said the China-ASEAN Expo has witnessed the continuous development of bilateral relations since its establishment 20 years ago, and the two sides are committed to strengthening themselves through unity, win-win cooperation and consideration for the world. "The sound standing of China-ASEAN relations has not come easily and is the result of the joint efforts of all parties," Li stressed, noting that at the core of these relations are amity, sincerity, inclusiveness and a commitment to achieving mutual benefits. These words are not just the basic orientation of China's neighborhood diplomacy, but they are also key to creating a better future, the premier said. He called for efforts to create a favorable environment conducive to development, prosperity, peace and tranquility, so that the development of one country can benefit neighboring countries and people in the region in an improved manner. China is ready to expand cooperation with ASEAN in such areas as culture, tourism, training and youth to enhance the mutual understanding and friendship between their peoples, in turn deepening emotional integration, Li said. To consolidate the foundation of trust further, China will adhere to its basic state policy of opening-up and strive to create a good business environment so that investors from all over the world feel at ease and comfortable, the premier said. He noted that China is willing to import more competitive and distinctive products from ASEAN countries, enhance regional connectivity, and build more stable and unimpeded regional industrial and supply chains based on comparative advantages. "China firmly supports the ASEAN-centered regional cooperation framework. It will continue to synergize the Belt and Road Initiative with the development strategies of other countries, and continue to advance regional economic integration," Li added. Approximately 1,200 people attended the opening ceremony, including Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, Laotian Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Indonesian Vice President Ma'ruf Amin, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn, as well as business representatives from China, ASEAN, and other countries and regions. Leaders of ASEAN countries said in their speeches that ASEAN member states have a high appreciation for the principles of amity, sincerity, inclusiveness and mutual benefits proposed by China, and for China's important contributions to promoting regional peace and prosperity. They expressed willingness to strengthen cooperation with China to open markets further, enhance connectivity and interdependence, advance cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, enhance supply chain resilience, oppose protectionism and the politicization of trade and investment, and jointly address global challenges such as food security and climate change. Chinese Premier Li Qiang poses for a group photo with guests before the opening ceremony of the 20th China-ASEAN Expo and the 20th China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit in Nanning, the capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Sept. 17, 2023. Li attended and addressed the opening ceremony here on Sunday. (Xinhua/Liu Bin) (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun) Photo: Brendan Kergin / Vancouver Is Awesome. Vancouver police were called to Railtown after reports of gunfire in an apartment. A 31-year-old man was arrested Friday night, Sept. 15, after getting into the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival in Vancouver with two edged weapons, according to police. The incident happened around 9:30 p.m. around the time comedian Russell Peters was to be on stage at the new comedy event held for the first time in Stanley Park. Security guards at the event saw the man breach the fence, according to the Vancouver Police Department (VPD), and move toward the stage. "The security guards reacted quickly to stop the suspect, and nobody was hurt," states VPD Sgt. Steve Addison in an email to V.I.A. "We had officers working inside the venue who responded immediately and took custody of the suspect." He describes the weapons as "edged" but doesn't go into greater detail. The motive for the incident is unknown and a VPD investigation is ongoing states Addison, though a man is charged in the incident. "Jacques Louis-Martin Letendre is charged with utter threats, assault, and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose," he writes. Letendre has been released by the courts by a release order, adds Addison. A spokesperson for the festival says no one was injured in the incident and the show went on uninterrupted. "We appreciate the efforts of our festival staff, security and Vancouver Police in their assistance," states Chris Schoengut of Trixstar LIVE, which put the event on. The night of the incident saw 7,500 people show up to the show. Schoengut says 10,000 people came out the following night for festival headliner Kevin Hart's show. At least five Russian paratroop regiments drawn from the 7th and 76th divisions are likely now concentrated within a few kilometers of the frontline village of Robotyne, the UK Ministry of Defenses Defense Intelligence agency said in its Ukraine situation report for Sept. 18. At full strength, such a force would constitute around 10,000 elite paratroopers, the agencys report said. Read also: Breaking down Russia's lines general reports Ukrainian gains in south Over the last two weeks, Russia has likely further reinforced the hard-pressed 58th Combined Arms Army with additional paratrooper units on the Orikhiv axis in Zaporizhzhya Oblast, the report added. However, almost all units are highly likely dramatically under strength. The current situation is likely to be seen as highly unsatisfactory by the VDV (Russian airborne) hierarchy. Read also: Deputy defense minister reports Ukrainian troops now securing newly captured areas near Robotyne following recent advances This is because throughout the war, Russian commanders have attempted to regenerate the airborne forces as a highly mobile, striking force for offensive operations. But once again, they are being used as line infantry to augment over-stretched ground forces, UK Defense Intelligence said. Earlier, 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 soldiers are gradually advancing through minefields and under attack by Russian aircraft. Read also: Deputy defense minister reports Ukrainian troops now securing newly captured areas near Robotyne following recent advances Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valerii Zaluzhnyi last month told U.S. officials that Ukrainian forces are on the verge of a breakthrough in their southern counteroffensive, the Wall Street Journal reported on Aug. 24, citing an unnamed U.S. official. Then in early September, the commander of the Tavria operational and strategic grouping of troops, Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, said that the Ukrainian Armed Forces had broken through the first line of Russian defense on the southern front. Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Malyar said on Sept. 11 that Ukrainian troops had liberated part of Opytne near Avdiyivka in Ukraines eastern Donbas region. The Ukrainian military announced on Sept. 17 that Ukrainian forces had liberated the village of Klishchiyivka south of the Russian-occupied ruins of the city of Bakhmut in Donetsk Oblast. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine 1. Texas AG Ken Paxton acquitted in impeachment trial Texas' Republican attorney general, Ken Paxton, was acquitted Saturday of his impeachment charges, allowing him to remain in office. The attorney general had been impeached earlier this year by a majority of Texas House Republicans, alleging that used his office to accept bribes and fired those who had reported him to federal agencies. However, Texas' GOP-led Senate, unlike those in the House, stood behind Paxton, with all but two Republicans voting to acquit. A majority tally 21 votes would've been needed to remove Paxton from office. "The sham impeachment coordinated by the Biden Administration with liberal House Speaker Dade Phelan and his kangaroo court has cost taxpayers millions of dollars," Paxton said following his acquittal. The Texas Tribune, Axios 2. Kim Jong Un returning to North Korea after rare foreign trip to Russia North Korean leader Kim Jong Un headed back to the hermit country he rules on Sunday, after a rare six-day foreign trip to meet with top officials in Russia. Videos published by Russian news agencies showed Kim boarding the militarized train that would take him back to North Korea, departing from the Russian city of Artyom. The train trip ends a six-day excursion that triggered concerns over heightened relations between North Korea and Russia, with the latter reportedly looking to secure North Korean shells to use against Ukraine. Kim inspected a number of Russian weapons, including nuclear-capable bombers, and also met with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss providing material support to Russia. The Associated Press, Reuters 3. Lee brings destructive flooding, leaving 42,000 without power in Maine Thousands of people remained without power in New England and Maritime Canada on Sunday after Atlantic Storm Lee made landfall on the East Coast. At least 42,000 people remained in the dark as of Sunday morning, according to poweroutage.us, as Lee caused flooding across large swaths of the region. Despite the storm continuing to dissipate, Lee's hurricane winds extended more than 140 miles from its center, as a tropical storm warning remained in effect from Maine north to the U.S.-Canadian border. In Canada, large portions of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island also lost power as the storm made landfall. One fatality has been recorded from the storm, a 51-year-old man in Maine. The Associated Press, NBC News 4. Biden to meet with Netanyahu amid tensions over Israeli judicial reforms President Joe Biden will meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu this week at the United Nations amid tensions over the latter's handling of the Middle East situation. Biden and Netanyahu will meet during the UN General Assembly on Wednesday, where U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan said the pair will "discuss a range of bilateral and regional issues focused on the shared democratic values between the United States and Israel." One topic that is certain to come up will be Netanyahu's controversial push for judicial reforms in Israel, which have caused widespread protests as the prime minister seeks to limit the judiciary's power. Biden has continually urged Netanyahu to forgo these reforms, arguing they are un-democratic. The Guardian, USA Today 5. California files lawsuit against major oil companies over fossil fuels The state of California filed a lawsuit Friday against five major oil companies and the American Petroleum Institute, arguing that the coalition misled the public about the dangers of fossil fuels and their impact on climate change. The lawsuit, filed against Exxon Mobil, Shell, BP, ConocoPhillips and Chevron, is demanding that these companies pay for recovery efforts related to extreme weather events in California, arguing that these events were exacerbated by Big Oil-led climate change. "Oil and gas companies have privately known the truth for decades that the burning of fossil fuels leads to climate change but have fed us lies and mistruths to further their record-breaking profits," California Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a statement. CNN, NPR 6. House Republicans to probe federal response to Maui wildfire The Republican-led House Oversight Committee is launching a probe into the federal response to last month's devastating wildfire in Maui, Hawaii. In a letter signed only by House GOP members, committee chair Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.) said that the Oversight leadership would be "taking action and seeking information from FEMA on all ongoing recovery efforts in Maui." Republicans have continually criticized the Biden administration's response to the wildfire, which destroyed the town of Lahaina and killed nearly 100 people. The White House, though, has stood by the federal aid given to Hawaii, saying that resources were doled out quickly and effectively. Hawaii Gov. Josh Green (D) has also praised the federal response to the disaster. ABC News, The Hill 7. Iranian police detain Mahsa Aminis father on 1-year anniversary of her death Iranian authorities detained the father of Mahsa Amini, whose death in police custody led to protests across Iran, on the one-year anniversary of his daughter's death. Amjad Amini was taken into custody on Saturday as officials prepared for a new wave of protests to sweep the nation. The Kurdistan Human Rights Network reported that Amini was "warned against commemorating his daughters death" before being released. The incident occurred exactly a year to the day after the death of Mahsa Amini, who died at the hands of Iran's "morality police" after being arrested for allegedly not wearing a hijab in public. Her death caused anger across Iran and a pushback against the country's hardline religious factions. Politico, The Guardian 8. Thousands rally in Australia for Indigenous recognition Thousands of Australians took to the streets on Sunday in support of recognizing the country's Indigenous groups in the country's constitution. Around 20,000 people reportedly rallied in Brisbane, as similar events were slated to be held in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Hobart and other major Australian cities. The rallies come ahead of a scheduled referendum in parliament that would cement the rights of Indigenous Australians in the constitution and also provide them with advisory bodies. The country's Indigenous population remains discriminated against and struggles with healthcare and education, and the rallies were sparked by a recent poll that showed the referendum was losing support among the Australian public. Reuters 9. Pope Pius XII likely knew of Holocaust, newly found Vatican letter suggests A 1942 letter discovered in the Vatican's archives suggested that Pope Pius XII likely knew about the Holocaust early on during World War II. The letter was found among the private collections of Pius' writings and reportedly came from a Vatican source within Germany. According to the letter, Pius was told that up to 6,000 people, "above all Poles and Jews," were being killed by the Nazis every day at a Polish extermination camp. This contradicts prior reporting from the Vatican claiming that Pius and the Catholic Church were unaware of the full scale of the Holocaust. Vatican officials said Saturday that they were "99% sure" Pius had seen the letter. The New York Times 10. Rolling Stone co-founder Jann Wenner removed from Rock & Roll Hall of Fame board following controversial interview Jann Wenner, the co-founder of Rolling Stone magazine, was removed from the board of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on Saturday after making controversial comments in a recent interview. A statement from the Hall said that Wenner had been removed from its board, but didn't provide further details. The move came one day after an interview with Wenner was published in The New York Times in which he made disparaging comments about women and people of color. When asked by the Times why he only included white men on a list of his rock legends, Wenner replied that no woman was "as articulate enough on this intellectual level," and made a nearly identical response about people of color. The Washington Post It's always been an uphill struggle to get folks to remember that sexuality is based on more than just who a person happens to be in a relationship with at precisely that momentsomething that's also been true of fiction over the years. Fortunately, bisexual representation in media has gotten better in the recent past, providing fans with some amazing characters to latch onto. But don't worry, we aren't forgetting the ogs either! Rosa Diaz / Brooklyn Nine-Nine Stephanie Beatriz NBC Rosa Diaz ( Stephanie Beatriz ) had a memorable coming out journey on Brooklyn Nine-Nine, reflecting the realities of family members not always being so accepting of queer sexuality. For being one of the funniest shows on TV, the series approached Rosa's story in a thoughtful way that sidestepped a lot of biphobic pitfalls and still means a lot to people today. Sara Lance / Legends of Tomorrow & Arrow Caity Lotz The CW When Sara Lance (Caity Lotz) first showed up on Arrow, it was a major deal, as queer characters had even less ground on superhero shows than they do now. Her trajectory was a little touch and go for awhile there, but Sara ultimately wound up leading the Waverider crew on Legends of Tomorrow. And even though the show ended abruptly, watching her come into her own over the course of both shows was truly a delight. Harley Quinn / DC Margot Robbie Warner Bros. While we only got a blink-and-you-miss-it reference to Harley Quinn's bisexuality in Birds of Prey, both the comics and the animated series have blessed us by taking the chaotic clown from essentially an elevated henchman unappreciated by the Joker to the love interest of Poison Ivy. Harley's the bisexual badass we can't get enough of in any iterationand if Margot Robbie wants to keep pushing for a live action adaptation that highlights her romance with Ivy, we're so here for it. Maze / Lucifer Lesley-Ann Brandt Fox The titular character of Lucifer is bisexual himself, although some fans feel that wasn't explored as much in the Fox series as it should have been. Fortunately, after the show moved to Netflix, Lucifer's righthand woman, Maze (Lesley-Ann Brandt), had her own realization that she had fallen head-over-heels for the most unlikely candidate. Never has a cover of "Wonderwall" sounded so good. Ava Silva / Warrior Nun Alba Baptista Netflix Warrior Nun fans are still smarting from the show's cancelation after just two seasons. Creator Simon Barry's promise that the show will wrap up in the form of a movie trilogy is still light on details, but everyone is hopeful it means we'll get to see more of the budding romance between Ava (Alba Baptista) and Sister Beatrice Kristina (Tonteri-Young). Either way, despite being a recent and short-lived series, it's clear this one made an impression on people. Max / Black Sails Jessica Parker Kennedy Starz Despite the inclination to refer to Our Flag Means Death as "the gay pirate show," there's no denying that Black Sails beat them to that honor by eight years. The gritty Starz show included a variety of queer characters, and saw Jessica Parker Kennedy's Max go on quite the journey over the course of the series. It wasn't always easy to watch, and some gays did get buried along the way, but rooting for Max was an easyand rewardingthing to do. Bo Dennis / Lost Girl Anna Silk Showcase While American shows were still squabbling over whether to include explicit bi representation at all, Canadian television dove right into giving us a sexy supernatural show with an unapologetically bisexual lead in succubus Bo Dennis (Anna Silk). Lost Girl had its ups and downs, but it was never short on queer representation, and featured other memorable bisexual characters as well, such as Tamsin (Rachel Skarsten) and Vex (Paul Amos), ultimately making it a must-see for any sapphics into the supernatural. Maureen Johnson / Rent Idina Menzel Columbia Pictures Say what you will about Rent in any iteration, but it's undeniable that it had an impact on cultureand especially musical theater kids. Idina Menzel originated the role of Maureen on Broadway and in the later feature film adaptation, and while Maureen isn't necessarily the most lovable character to ever grace the stage, she's also completely unforgettabletake her or leave her. Nova Bordelon / Queen Sugar Rutina Wesley Oprah Winfrey Network Rutina Wesley got another chance at playing a bisexual badass in Queen Sugar after True Blood did her so dirty. How successful that was depends on who you talk to, but having a queer Black lead on a show that ran for seven seasons is nothing to scoff at. And having her played by Wesley just feels like a gift, especially to every still-recovering True Blood fan. Alice Pieszecki / The L Word & The L Word: Generation Q Leisha Hailey Showtime What would a list about bisexual female characters be without mentioning Alice Pieszecki (Leisha Hailey)? The original L Word didn't always present bisexuality in the greatest light, but Alice was steadfast in her determination to maintain her identity, making her a rare, visible, and explicitly labeled bisexual on TV in the aughts. And while nothing may ever make up for the fan-favorite ship that was lost to us in the original, and we'll always wonder what Alice's own intended spin-off would have looked like, it was still great to see her on our screens once again with Generation Q. Jenny Schecter / The L Word Mia Kirshner Showtime Love her or hate her (and rest assured, there are those of us who will defend her to the death), you just can't talk about the impact of The L Word and leave out Jenny Schecter (Mia Kirshner). The polarizing character lost more and more favor with the LGBTQ+ community as the series went on, but without Jenny and her endlessly self-destructive chaos, The L Word would have been a dramatically different show. And with more "good" queer representation in film and TV these days, maybe we're almost ready to have a conversation about how messy rep like Jenny can be important toomaybe. Amanita Caplan / Sense8 Freema Agyeman Netflix Sense8 is another casualty of Netflix's rapid cancelation policy, and one fans have yet to get over. Boasting a large ensemble cast and multiple LGBTQ+ characters, the show had a real gem in the relationship between Freema Agyeman's Amanita and Jamie Clayton's Nomi. It was particularly notable that the source of any conflict they faced was generally external, while their relationship thrived and their devotion to one another was clearand that didn't erase Amanita's sexuality, either. Paige Michalchuk / Degrassi: The Next Generation Lauren Collins CTV There may not be a single high school-related plot on the planet that wasn't covered by Degrassi: The Next Generation at some point in time, including the opportunity for popular girl Paige Michalchuk (Lauren Collins) to learn something new about her sexuality when she fell for a girl from the wrong side of the tracks (Alex, played by Deanna Casaluce). Although like for most couples on the show, it didn't work out between Paige and Alex, it remained a pivotal coming-of-age story for many of Degrassi's dedicated viewers. Marissa Cooper / The O.C. Mischa Barton Fox The O.C.'s treatment of Marissa Cooper (Mischa Barton) remains controversial, in more ways than one. But Marissa's fling with Olivia Wilde's character, another Alex from the aughts, was a big deal at a time when network executives were very, very nervous about any queer inclusion. Even if the relationship was treated in a way that was questioned at the time and would make LGBTQ+ fans collectively furious in the present, the debate over whether Marissa's bisexuality "counts" needs to come to an end. That relationship, brief as it may have been, was an awakening for many a bi girl back in the day, and Marissa will always have a place in bisexual TV canon. An accused bank robber dressed in womens clothes and wearing a wedding band was actually a teen boy in disguise, Florida deputies said. On Sept. 6, a person wearing black pants, a pink shirt, a jean jacket, a face mask and a bright pink bonnet walked into a Wells Fargo in Tampa, according to a Sept. 6 Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office news release. The person was also wearing a wedding band and carrying a purse, according to photos shared by the sheriffs office. The accused bank robber wore womens clothes, a wedding band and carried a purse, photos show. The person walked up to one of the bank tellers and handed them a note, deputies said. The note said the person had a gun and demanded money, according to the sheriffs office. Before the teller handed over any more money or police could arrive, the person ran away from the bank in an unknown direction, deputies said. Attempting to rob a bank is not just a crime, its a breach of the trust that holds our community together, Sheriff Chad Chronister said in the release. Almost two weeks later, deputies identified a 17-year-old boy as the accused robber, according to a Sept. 18 updated news release. The boy was found near a public storage area near the Wells Fargo, deputies said. Deputies did not release what led investigators to the teen. This incident serves as a poignant reminder that youth can be swayed down perilous paths, and its our duty to steer them towards a brighter future, Chronister said in the release. The boy was charged with felony robbery while wearing a mask, and he was taken into custody and brought to the Juvenile Assessment Center, deputies said. Man tries robbing Zaxbys at gunpoint, Georgia cops say. Then armed stranger steps in Men accused of bank jugging while out on bail crash during police chase, Texas cops say Wig-wearing thief opens fire inside bank and steals up to $40,000, Georgia cops say Man kept bag of money he found outside bank, Connecticut cops say. Now hes charged The work of Ukrainian air defense forces during the attack of the Russian Federation on the night of September 18 Eighteen out of 24 kamikaze drones and all 17 cruise missiles Russia launched at Ukraine overnight were intercepted by Ukrainian air defenses, the Ukrainian Air Force reported on its Telegram channel on Sept. 18. The 24 Shahed-136/131 kamikaze drones were launched from Russias Primorsko-Akhtarsk and the Chauda Cape on Ukraines Russian-occupied Crimean Peninsula. They headed towards Mykolaiv and Odesa oblasts, and 18 of them were downed en route. Read also: Russia tries to confuse and exhaust Ukraines air defenses with course-changing cruise missiles The 17 Kh-101/Kh-555/Kh-55 cruise missiles were launched from Tu-95MS strategic bombers in the area of Russias Volgograd Oblast. All of them were intercepted in Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava and Khmelnytskyi oblasts. Ukraine downed six out of six Shahed kamikaze drones and six out of 10 cruise missiles launched by Russia in the previous overnight attack on the country early on Sept. 17, the Ukrainian Air Force reported on its channel on the Telegram messenger app. Read also: Russian missile and drone attack hits grain storage in Odesa Oblast Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) A $2.3 million state grant will go to help former Bitwise employees in Fresno. Officials say this grant will support the continued efforts to assist former Bitwise employees affected by layoffs. Bitwise Furloughs: YourCentralValley.coms complete coverage Another $1.1 million will aid State Center Community College District (SCCCD) apprentices affected by Bitwises closure. According to officials, the grant will fund: Bitwise Redeployment Center: A resource hub for employee career transitions. Support Services: Including orientation, assessment, job training, virtual learning, placement, and retraining. Entrepreneurial Services: With US Small Business Administration partnership for startup training. Remote Work Setup: Assisting remote work with home office resources. Relocation Services: Aid for those considering relocation. Comprehensive Support: Including food, housing, childcare, and transport assistance. Certifications: Funding for CompTIA, Google IT, Microsoft, and Cisco certifications to enhance job market competitiveness. The legal actions former Bitwise employees can take The grant from EDD is a significant boost to our efforts to support Bitwise employees during this challenging time, said Blake Konczal, Executive Director of the Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board. We are dedicated to working closely with our partners to provide a comprehensive suite of services that will empower these employees to pursue new opportunities and contribute to the growth of our regions economy. Bitwise filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in June, two months after laying off the entire company workforce. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com. Photo: KTLA On Saturday, authorities confirmed that two Black female models were found dead inside their apartments in downtown Los Angeles within the last week. Maleesa Mooney, 31, died on September 12. The LAPD shared that they are investigating Mooneys death as a murder. Nichole Coats, 31, died on September 10. However, the LAPD and the L.A. County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner stated that Coats death is not being considered a homicide. It is unknown if there is a connection between how the two women died. Read more However, Sharon Coats remains adamant about discovering exactly what happened to her daughter. I dont know who she went out with or what transpired there, she said. I have no idea but Im going to find out. So if youre out there, youre going to get caught. Youre messing with the wrong person. More from The Root Sign up for The Root's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. NEW YORK -- Two people are facing multiple charges, including murder, in the death of a 1-year-old boy at a Bronx day care. Grei Mendez, 36, stayed silent as she was walked from the 52nd Police Precinct in handcuffs Sunday. Mendez owns Divino Nino Daycare, where Friday, 1-year-old Nicholas Dominici died and three other children were hospitalized from suspected opioid exposure. First responders had found the babies in cardiac arrest and administered Narcan. Read more: Police investigating if children were exposed to fentanyl in deadly Bronx day care incident, sources say "It's a tragedy for the children. It's a tragedy for her because I don't believe she's involved in what happened, so it's really bad all around for everybody," said Andres Aranda, Mendez's attorney. Mendez was arraigned on Sunday night at Bronx criminal court and denied bail. She faces several charges, along with 41-year-old Carlisto Acevedo Brito, Mendez's husband's cousin. Mendez was renting a room out to Acevedo Brito for $200 a month. In court, officials said 1 kilo of fentanyl was found inside a closet at the day care, along with two kilo presses, which are used to process drugs. A third kilo press was found in Acevedo Brito's bedroom. At least one surviving child tested positive for fentanyl. "She just didn't know. She rented a room to somebody, and she didn't know what was going on," Aranda said. Watch Ali Bauman's report "The way those kids got hurt I think is something that nobody, nobody deserves that. No mother, no grandmother," neighbor Joanne Martinez said. "As a father, you always trust other people to take care of your kids when you go to work. This is the last thing you could possibly think would happen to your son," neighbor Hailey Rivera said. This weekend, Nicholas's grieving parents told CBS New York the day care was recommended to them by a community center, but it was rumored to have been renting out rooms. "If I had known what would have happened," his mother said in Spanish, "I would not have taken him there." Read more: Parents of 1-year-old Nicholas Dominici, who died at Bronx day care, grappling with unimaginable loss The day care had passed a city inspection as recently as this month. "The city's gonna have to step up more and go through every day care and investigate them good because the way things happened in there, I don't think it was right," Martinez said. The two suspects are each facing more than 10 charges, including murder, criminal possession of a narcotic and endangering the welfare of a child. Mendez's next court appearance is scheduled for Thursday morning. Acevido Brito is expected to be arraigned soon. The medical examiner has yet to determine the official cause of death for Nicholas. Volodymyr Zelenskyy's full 2023 60 Minutes interview in Ukrainian Welcome back for 60 Minutes season 56 Deion Sanders: The 2023 60 Minutes Interview Police are searching for any clues that could help them find the perpetrator or perpetrators involved in the killings of two models in downtown Los Angeles in the span of one week. The first woman whose death was announced was identified as 31-year-old model and real estate agent Maleesa Mooney. She was found dead in her luxury apartment in Bunker Hill on Tuesday by officers conducting a welfare check after she abruptly stopped answering calls or texts from her family. Authorities looking into whether car seen on surveillance video has connection to LASD deputys death When a week went by, we just knew something was off, said Bailey Babb, Maleesa Mooneys cousin. Her messages werent delivering and we knew something was up because we all have a special relationship with Maleesa. 31-year-old aspiring model and real estate agent Maleesa Mooney was found dead in her DTLA apartment Police did not release any details about any possible injuries or a possible cause of death for Mooney, however they did confirm that her death was being investigated as a homicide. Just three days later, authorities announced the death of another model, 32-year-old Nichole Nikki Coats. Coats was found dead in her apartment by concerned family members on Sept. 10 after she wouldnt answer attempts to contact her for days. I couldnt recognize her, said May Stevens, Nikkis aunt and one of the family members who made the gruesome discovery. I believe it was murder, I really do. According to Coats loved ones, the last they heard from Nikki, she told them that she was going out on a date on Friday, Sept. 8. It would be the last conversation she would have with them. The two incidents occurred less than three miles apart, and while Mooneys case is being considered a murder, as of Sunday, Coats case is still considered a suspicious death. Loved ones are distraught after model Nichole Coats, 32, known as Nikki, was found dead inside her apartment in downtown Los Angeles on Sept. 10, 2023. (GoFundMe) Family members of both women emphasized the fact that each were loved and adored by those they knew; Maleesa was described by her sister as a peacemaker and backbone of her family, and Nikkis mother remembered her daughter as someone who didnt have any enemies and was loved by friends and the community. 2 incarcerated women walk away from Southern California reentry program No suspect description has been released, but the two devastated families are concerned that a serial killer may be looking for their next target. I feel that theres a predator loose, Stevens said. According to the Los Angeles County Coroners Office, Nikkis case remains open while her cause of death is determined. A GoFundMe was created to help her family with funeral expenses. Anyone with information regarding either case is urged to contact the Los Angeles Police Department at 1-877-527-3247. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Russias Ministry of Labour has requested 230,000 certificates for family members of deceased combat veterans and over 750,000 certificates for combat veterans, which is several times more than before (such documents are to certify that a person took part in combat ed.). Source: Russian media outlet Vyorstka Details: Journalists who examined documents on the state procurement portal discovered that Russias Labour Ministry has ordered 230,000 certificates for "family members of deceased war veterans, participants in the Great Patriotic War and combat veterans", as well as 757,305 combat veteran certificates, worth over RUB 79 million (US$817,411 ed.) in total. The procurement tender foresees that 200,000 certificates for family members of deceased soldiers will be distributed to Russias Defence Ministry and 30,000 to the Ministry of Social Protection. Moreover, the Defence Ministry plans to distribute 600,000 printed combatant certificates: 86,805 to the Ministry of Social Protection, 60,000 to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, 10,000 to the National Guard, and 500,000 to the Ministry of Construction, Housing and Utilities. Quote from Vyorstka: "This is several times more than before. In May, the Labour Ministry ordered almost 100,000 certificates for combat veterans to be printed, and over 23,000 certificates for family members of the deceased. Last summer, the Labour Ministry signed a contract for the printing of over 82,000 blank combat veteran certificates and nearly 6,000 certificates for family members of deceased soldiers." More details: Vyorstka says that in total, since the beginning of Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Russian Ministry of Labour has ordered 936,052 certificates for combat veterans. Since June 2023, certificates for family members of deceased soldiers have been issued to volunteers families as well as to the families of regular army soldiers. Background: Information from the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine as of 18 September confirms that nearly 272,940 Russian soldiers have been killed in 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! Photo: The Canadian Press The auto workers' strike against Detroit's Big Three went into its fourth day on Monday with no signs of an early breakthrough and against the threat that the walkout could soon spread. In a sign of the potential economic and political of a long strike, President Joe Biden is sending two top administration officials to Detroit this week to meet with both sides. Biden has sided with the UAW in brief public comments, saying that the automakers have not fairly shared their record profits with workers. An administration official said Monday that acting Labor Secretary Julie Su and senior aide Gene Sperling will not serve as mediators they won't be at the bargaining table but are going to Detroit to help support the negotiations in any way the parties feel is constructive. The official was not authorized to discuss private discussions and spoke anonymously. UAW President Shawn Fain said Monday that the Biden administration won't broker a deal. This is our battle. Our members are out there manning the picket lines," Fain said on MSNBC. "This battle is not about the president, its not about the former president. Rather than launching an all-out strike of its 146,000 members, the union opted to target three factories one at each company a plan that could make the union's $825 million strike fund last longer. A key feature of the strategy is the threat of escalating the strike if the union is unhappy with the pace of bargaining. On Friday, Fain said more factories could be targeted: It could be in a day, it could be in a week. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna, along with county leaders and Palmdales mayor, on Sunday announced a reward of up to $250,000 for the identification, arrest and prosecution of the suspect or suspects involved in the fatal shooting ambush of Deputy Ryan Clink Clinkunbroomer in the Antelope Valley Saturday night. Sheriffs department personnel have worked around the clock in an attempt to find these suspects it could be one, it could be two in Ryans murder, Luna said at the press conference. Clinkunbroomer, 30, an eight-year veteran of the sheriffs department, was found unconscious in his police cruiser and suffering from gunshot wounds by a citizen around 6 p.m. near the intersection of Sierra Highway and Avenue Q in Palmdale. He was rushed to the Antelope Valley Medical Center where he later died as a result of his injuries. The shooting was an ambush involving a suspect or suspects in a vehicle driving past Deputy Clinkunbroomer when they fired at him. He was on duty and sitting in his squad car when the shooting took place. Ryan wasnt only a deputy Sheriff for the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department, he was a son, a grandson. He had just been engaged 4 days ago. He had so much ahead of him, Luna said. Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer While authorities are investigating security footage that shows a dark colored car, which Luna referred to as a vehicle of interest, driving up to the deputys patrol unit, he asked the public for any additional video that anyone in the area of Sierra Highway and Avenue Q at 6 p.m. on Saturday might have. Im going to continuously refer to [the suspects] as cowards, because thats what they are cowards to attack a deputy sheriff in uniform in a black and white, who is just sitting there at a red light about to go out and serve our community, Luna said. The vehicle of interest that officials are asking for the publics help in identifying is described as a dark gray 2006-2012 Toyota Corolla. Surveillance images of "vehicle of interest" in fatal shooting of L.A. County Deputy Sheriff Again, check your cameras, check your cameras, Luna said. That could be the missing link to the information that we need. Los Angeles County Board Supervisor Kathryn Barger also spoke at the press conference, announcing a motion she plans introduce at Tuesdays supervisors meeting to establish a $100,000 reward leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the deadly ambush. This heinous deed will notgo unpunished, Barger added. Whoever committed this cowardly act will be caught. The person or persons will be held accountable. I make that promise to you. Sheriff Luna later explained the city of Palmdale will be matching the countys $100,000 reward, and that the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs (ALADS) have pledged $50,000, bringing the total to $250,000. There are other individuals and cities who are calling us in the last hours who are graciously trying to add more to that, Luna said. A reward is a reward. Its one of the highest ones Ive seen, but Im challenging peoples characters out there, to find this act absolutely unacceptable and come forwardwe need you. A candlelight vigil was held outside the Palmdale Sheriffs Station at 7 p.m. Sunday. Anyone with information is asked to call LASD at 323-890-5500. Anonymous tips can be submitted to L.A. Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org. The full LASD press conference can be seen in the video player at the bottom of this page. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will address the United Nations General Assembly in New York City on Tuesday, then meet with President Biden and members of Congress in Washington, D.C., in what will be his second trip to the United States since Russia launched an invasion of his homeland in early 2022. As during his first visit, his message will be straightforward: To support Ukraine is to support democracy, stability and peace. But with the war now well into its second year, he also needs to address worries about the potential length, and extent, of the conflict. Ahead of Zelenskys visit, Yahoo News spoke with Rep. Jake Auchincloss, a Democrat and combat veteran who represents the suburbs south of Boston. An ally of President Biden who has steadfastly supported Ukraine, in contrast to former President Trump and some in the Republican Party Auchincloss has emerged as one of Washingtons most consistent, and articulate, supporters of Ukraine. The following conversation has been edited for brevity and clarity. Read more on Yahoo News: Rep. Jake Auchincloss urges U.S. to keep supporting Ukraine: Its sending a message Yahoo News: Id love your assessment of the Ukrainian counteroffensive. Rep. Jake Auchincloss, a Democrat from Massachusetts, speaks during the Semafor World Economy Summit in Washington, D.C., in April. (Al Drago/Bloomberg) Auchincloss: Let's remember that Ukraine is launching this counteroffensive without adequate airpower. No Western military would send infantry into two, three, lines of well-fortified entrenchments without close air support. Would never happen. And that's what we're asking Ukraine to do. But even without airpower, they have broken through the first line of defense in the southeast. So it's doable, it's just slower and tougher than it needs to be. Read more on Yahoo News: Deputy defense minister reports Ukrainian troops now securing newly captured areas near Robotyne following recent advances, from the New Voice of Ukraine Yahoo News: What do you say to Americans who argue, Listen, you know, I'm no fan of Vladimir Putin, but we have given Ukraine billions of dollars. We are not appeasing anybody, but now we just have to tend to our own store, and Ukraine has to defend itself. An assault unit commander raises the Ukrainian flag as a symbol of liberation of the frontline village of Andriivka, Ukraine, on Saturday. (Alex Babenko/AP) Auchincloss: Donald Trump says that. Ukraine is a battleground. It's not just a battleground for Ukraine's territorial sovereignty. It's a battleground for the Wests resolution to stand for freedom and democracy the world over. And that message is just as important, if not more so, in Beijing as it is in the Kremlin. I say this openly to every politician in Washington: If you are soft on Russia, you are soft on China. And MAGA is soft on Russia. Read more on Yahoo News: War in Ukraine is a warning to China of the risks in attacking Taiwan, from the Conversation Yahoo News: Whats your message to Zelensky? U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, right, meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Sept. 6. (Anadolu Agency via Getty Images) Auchincloss: That the American people stand with him and with his cause, and that he should not allow Donald Trump's dangerous and cowardly fixation on Vladimir Putin dissuade him from keeping up the fight on the frontlines of the free world. Read more on Yahoo News: Zelensky says US support to Ukraine is bigger than war: If Ukraine falls, Putin will surely go further, from The Hill The Oklahoma City Police Department responded to four missing juvenile calls on the Oklahoma State Fair's opening day. All were safely reunited with their families, but police and the fair have some safety tips in case of separation. First, anyone can pick up a "Project Reunite" wristband at an InFAIRmation booth and fill out parent or guardian contact information in the event the child wearing the wristband is lost. Anyone lost will be brought to the Safety Center on the west end of the Administration Building at the corner of Land Rush and General Pershing Boulevard, according to the fair. From parking to concerts: Everything you need to know about the Oklahoma State Fair 2023 Police also recommend the following: Have an emergency plan with a designated area to meet in case of separation Take a current photo of your child to share with police Dress your children in bright colors to be easily spotted Educate kids on who they can trust, such as law enforcement and other officials This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: What to do if your kids go missing at Oklahoma State Fair Police are investigating what led up to a shooting that killed a 4-year-old at an apartment complex. Muscogee County Coroner Buddy Bryan told Channel 2 Action News the shooting took place inside an apartment at the Liberty Commons Apartments on North Lumpkin Road Monday morning. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] When officers arrived, they found a 4-year-old who had been shot. The child was pronounced dead at the scene. The childs identity has not been released. Bryan said police believe the child was intentionally shot by someone who lived at the apartment with them. TRENDING STORIES: According to the investigation, the suspect ran over the landlord while leaving the scene. The landlord was taken to the hospital, where their condition is unknown. The landlords identity has not been released. Police have not said if anyone has been taken into custody in connection to this case. The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: BOSTON Five people, including two juveniles, were shot Sunday night in Dorchester. One of the young victims suffered life-threatening injuries. The shooting happened just after 8:30 p.m. outside the Franklin Field housing complex at 50 Ames Street. The five victims included three adults and two victims under the age of 18. "I'm angry; I'm upset as a Mom," Boston Mayor Michelle Wu said at a press conference late Sunday. "I'm praying with all my heart for those in the hospital to recover." "We need the help of our community here," Districut Attorney Kevin Hayden said. "We hope that someone will step forward with information." Authorities offered no details on what may have led up to the violent incident. Volodymyr Zelenskyy's full 2023 60 Minutes interview in Ukrainian Welcome back for 60 Minutes season 56 Deion Sanders: The 2023 60 Minutes Interview From left, Emad Sharghi, Morad Tahbaz and Siamak Namazi, former prisoners in Iran, walk out of a Qatar Airways flight that brought them out of Tehran and to Doha, Qatar, Monday, Sept. 18, 2023. Five prisoners sought by the U.S. in a swap with Iran were freed Monday and headed home as part of a deal that saw nearly $6 billion in Iranian assets unfrozen. (AP Photo/Lujain Jo) DOHA, Qatar (AP) Five Americans detained for years in Iran walked off a plane and into freedom Monday, most arm-in-arm, as part of a politically risky deal that saw President Joe Biden agree to the release of nearly $6 billion in frozen Iranian assets owed by a third country, South Korea. The successful negotiations for the Americans' freedom brought Biden profuse thanks from their families but heat from Republican presidential rivals and other opponents for the monetary arrangement with one of America's top adversaries. Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home, Biden said in a statement released as the plane carrying the group from Tehran landed in Doha, Qatar. A plane carrying the Americans home to the United States was due to land Monday night. Irans hard-line President Ebrahim Raisi , on hand for the United Nations General Assembly in New York, suggested Monday's exchange could be a step in the direction of a humanitarian action between us and America. It can definitely help in building trust, Raisi told journalists. However, tensions are almost certain to remain high between the U.S. and Iran, which are locked in disputes over Tehrans nuclear program and other matters. Iran says the program is peaceful, but it now enriches uranium closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. The prisoner release unfolded amid a major American military buildup in the Persian Gulf, with the possibility of U.S. troops boarding and guarding commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of all oil shipments pass. After the plane slowed to a stop in Doha, three of the prisoners walked down the stairs. They hugged the U.S. ambassador to Qatar, Timmy Davis, and others. The three Siamak Namazi, Emad Sharghi and Morad Tahbaz then threw their arms over one another's shoulders and walked off to a building in the airport. In a statement issued on his behalf, Namazi said: I would not be free today, if it wasnt for all of you who didnt allow the world to forget me. Thank you for being my voice when I could not speak for myself and for making sure I was heard when I mustered the strength to scream from behind the impenetrable walls of Evin Prison, he said. The United States did not immediately identify the other two freed Americans, all of whom were released in exchange for five Iranians in U.S. custody and for the deal over the frozen Iranian assets. The Biden administration said the five freed Iranians pose no threat to U.S. national security. Two of the imprisoned Americans' family members, Effie Namazi and Vida Tahbaz, who had been under travel bans in Iran, also were on the plane. The women, too, clasped arms and kissed on the tarmac in Qatar. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani said two of the Iranian prisoners will stay in the U.S. Meanwhile, Nour News, a website believed to be close to Irans security apparatus, said two of the Iranian prisoners were in Doha for the swap. Nour News identified the two released Iranians in Doha as Mehrdad Ansari, an Iranian sentenced by the U.S. to 63 months in prison in 2021 for obtaining equipment that could be used in missiles, electronic warfare, nuclear weapons and other military gear, and Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani, an Iranian charged in 2021 over allegedly unlawfully exporting laboratory equipment to Iran. The $5.9 billion in cash released to Iran represents money South Korea owed Iran but had not yet paid for oil purchased before the U.S. imposed sanctions on such transactions in 2019. The U.S. maintains that, once in Qatar, the money will be held in restricted accounts to be used only for humanitarian goods, such as medicine and food. Those transactions are currently allowed under American sanctions targeting the Islamic Republic over its advancing nuclear program. Iranian government officials have largely concurred, though some hard-liners have insisted, without evidence, that there would be no restrictions on how Tehran spends the money. The planned exchange comes ahead of the convening of world leaders at the U.N. General Assembly this week in New York, where Raisi will speak. The deal has already opened Biden to fresh criticism from Republicans and others who say the administration is helping boost the Iranian economy at a time when Iran poses a growing threat to American troops and Mideast allies. That could have implications in his re-election campaign. Former President Donald Trump, currently the lead Republican challenger in the polls against Biden's 2024 re-election bid, called it an absolutely ridiculous deal on the Truth Social social media site. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell accused Biden of rewarding and incentivizing Tehran's bad behavior. Biden held what the White House described as an emotional phone call with the families of the freed Americans after their release. In his statement, Biden urged Americans not to travel to Iran and demanded more information on what happened to Bob Levinson, an American who went missing years ago. The Biden administration also announced fresh sanctions on former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and the Iranian Ministry of Intelligence. The U.S. government, the prisoners families and activists have denounced the charges against the five Americans as baseless. The Americans included Namazi, who was detained in 2015 and later sentenced to 10 years in prison on spying charges; Emad Sharghi, a venture capitalist sentenced to 10 years; and Morad Tahbaz, a British-American conservationist of Iranian descent who was arrested in 2018 and also received a 10-year sentence. In a statement, Sharghis sister, Neda, said she cant wait to hug my brother and never let him go. This is my brother, not an abstract policy," she added. "We are talking about human lives. There is nothing partisan about saving the lives of innocent Americans and today should be a moment of American unity as we welcome them home. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken thanked Qatar, Switzerland, South Korea and Oman for helping make the deal happen. Biden pledged in a statement to keep pressing for accountability for Iran and other regimes for the cruel practice of wrongful detention. Iran and the U.S. have a history of prisoner swaps dating back to the 1979 U.S. Embassy takeover and hostage crisis following the Islamic Revolution. Their most recent major exchange happened in 2016, when Iran came to a deal with world powers to restrict its nuclear program in return for easing sanctions. The West accuses Iran of using foreign prisoners including those with dual nationality as bargaining chips, an allegation Tehran rejects. Negotiations over a major prisoner swap faltered after then-president Trump unilaterally withdrew America from the nuclear deal in 2018. From the following year on, a series of attacks and ship seizures attributed to Iran have raised tensions. Iran also supplies Russia with the bomb-carrying drones Moscow uses to target sites in Ukraine in its war on Kyiv, which remains another major dispute between Tehran and Washington. ___ Gambrell reported from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Lee from Washington. Associated Press writers Nasser Karimi and Amir Vahdat in Tehran, Iran; Paul Haven in New York; Ellen Knickmeyer, Eric Tucker and Farnoush Amiri in Washington, and Aamer Madhani and Michelle Phillips in New York contributed. [Source] Six members of the religious group Soldiers of Christ have been arrested and charged in connection with the death of a South Korean woman who was allegedly beaten and starved to death for weeks. Key details: The Gwinnett County Police Department arrested six people on Thursday in a case that is now being investigated as a homicide, according to the departments press release. The suspects: The six suspects were identified as Eric Hyun, 26, of Suwanee, Georgia, who was the driver of the car where the body of the victim, who was in her 20s or 30s and weighed 70 pounds, was found. The other suspects, all from Lawrenceville, Georgia, were identified as Gawom Lee, 26; Joonho Lee, 26; Juoonhyum Lee, 22; Hyunji Lee, 25, and a 15-year-old who was reportedly charged as an adult despite being a juvenile. One of the suspects was a South Korean national, while the rest were American. More from NextShark: Chinese woman shares video of daughter 'stuck' to the walls while watching TV What happened: Hyun reportedly parked his car outside Jeju Sauna on 3555 Gwinnett Place Drive early Tuesday. He later called for a family member to pick him up and drive him to a nearby hospital for an unrelated injury. Hyun then asked a family member to retrieve an item from his parked car while they were at the hospital. There, the family member discovered the body of the woman in Hyuns trunk, prompting him to call 911 immediately. More from NextShark: Pastor in Little Saigon Pleads Guilty in $33 Million Investment Scam Investigation starts: Police executed a search warrant at Hyuns home on Stable Gate, Georgia. Authorities said in the press release that they believed the basement of his home was where the crime occurred. About the victim: Investigators believed that the victim came to the United States from South Korea in the Summer of 2023 to join the religious organization. She was allegedly subjected to weeks of malnourishment, which the Medical Examiners Office said was the contributing factor to her death, and beatings. Authorities said they are still investigating the specific cause of death. Their charges: All six suspects, including the juvenile, are being charged with felony murder, false imprisonment, tampering with evidence, and concealing the death of another. More from NextShark: Peak White Boy Energy: Vietnam War-Themed Bar Sparks Outrage for 'Capitalizing on POC Traumas Besides charges, the GCPD also announced that they had secured multiple criminal street gang warrants on each of the arrested suspects. Those who may have information about the case are asked to contact GCPD detectives at 770-513-5300 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477). More from NextShark: Chinese millionaire withdraws fortune, forces bank to hand count bills because they asked him to wear mask Ukraines Air Force warned that the Russians raised up to seven Tu-95MS bombers into the air from Olenegorsk. Source: Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Telegram Quote: "The take-off of up to seven Tu-95MS from Olenegorsk is confirmed. Launch of cruise missiles is possible!" Details: The Air Force urges Ukrainian citizens to monitor reports and not to ignore air-raid warnings. Earlier: An air-raid warning was issued in the south-eastern oblasts of Ukraine as Russian aircraft activity has been recorded. 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! All nine juveniles who escaped from a detention center in eastern Pennsylvania Sunday night following a riot are in police custody, officials say. The juveniles escaped from Abraxas Academy, a detention center in Morgantown, about an hour outside of Philadelphia. The facility houses teens with a history of criminal and delinquent behavior. Officials say the juveniles overpowered two staff members and stole keys to escape. Four of the juveniles were taken into custody around 5:45 a.m. Monday, state police announced. At around 7:30 a.m., state police said all nine were in custody. State and local police were called to take control of the juvenile center after the riot began inside the facility, the Caernarvon Township Police Department said in a statement on its website. State police said they will all be charged with escape. The Associated Press contributed to this story. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW TRENDING NOW: Firefighters respond to incident at Kennywood Park Community fun day honors teen murdered at haunted hayride Jefferson Hills Police Department looking for missing woman VIDEO: Man shot after reported fight in Pittsburghs South Side overnight DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts Open letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Canadas premiers A quick search of the internet quickly informed me that perhaps the leading company producing aerial wildfire equipment in the world is B.C.-based Coulson Aviation. Unfortunately, we, in Canada, do not contract for the best equipment they produce. That stuff goes to Australia and California. Check it out on the Coulson website. As of Dec. 5, 2022, Coulson signed a four-year fire contract with Western Australia for a C-130H Hercules Airtanker. This aircraft has a capacity of 15,000 litres ofwater. Think of it as the modern day equivalent of the fabled Martin Mars water bombers that were based at Port Alberni. This is probably the only aircraft flying today that provides a hope of slowing up, or perhaps even stopping, a firestorm on the rampage with 100-foot high flames. It is a B.C.-made wildfire fighting behemoth, yet it has never been used to fight B.C. wildfires. Premier Eby and Prime Minister Trudeau, acquire some of these for use in B.C. and elsewhere in Canada But this is not all that Coulson Aviation has in its wildfire fighting inventory. It also has heavy lift helicopters that have been used in California, again in 2022, as well as two Boeing CH-47 heavy lift helicopters that can be used 24 hours per day. Those beasts can fight wildfires in the middle of the night. Imagine having the ability to douse a lighting strike in the dark. It also has one Sikorsky S-61 helitanker and one Sikorsky S-76 intelligence gathering helicopter These are aircraft supplied by a B.C.-based company, yet we do not use them. Why not? Jim Bodkin, Vernon Nine Massachusetts universities were named among the top 100 educational institutes in America in US News & World Reports annual ranking. The publications 2023-2024 Best National University Rankings, which was released Monday, was assembled after nearly 1,500 U.S. four-year bachelors degree-granting institutions were evaluated on as many as 19 measures including graduation rates, first-year retention rates, graduation rate performance, and borrower debt, among many other statistics. To be ranked, institutions had to meet the following conditions: have regional accreditation, be included in Carnegies Basic classification but not designated as a highly specialized school, enroll at least 100 undergraduate students, have reported financial expenditures data to the U.S. Department of Educations Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) finance survey, and have reported a six-year graduation rate of full-time, first-year bachelors degree-seeking students in recent years, US News & World Report reported. Princeton University in New Jersey was named the top educational institute in the country, narrowly edging out Cambridges Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University. Standford University in California and Yale University in Connecticut rounded out the top five. These are the top 100 high schools in Massachusetts, according to US News & World Report The following nine Massachusetts universities ranked as follows: 2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge 3. Harvard University, Cambridge 39. Boston College, Chestnut Hill 40. Tufts University, Medford 43. Boston University, Boston 53. Northeastern University, Boston 60. Brandies University, Waltham 67. University of Massachusetts, Amherst 82. Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester Williams College in Williamstown, Amherst College in Amherst, and Wellesley College in Wellesley were also named in top five in US News & World Reports National Liberal Arts Colleges Rankings. For more, click here. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW All nine teenagers who escaped from a juvenile detention center in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, Sunday evening were captured Monday morning, police said, after a multiagency search that prompted school closures and warnings to the surrounding community. The teens, ages 15 to 17, broke out of the Abraxas Academy juvenile detention center by overpowering two prison employees and taking their keys, said David Beohm, a spokesperson for the Pennsylvania State Police troop in Reading. Four of the escapees were captured after knocking on a homeowners door early Monday, Beohm said. They were done, they were tired, they were cold, Beohm said during a news conference. They basically gave up. The other five teens stole a vehicle and four were captured after a pursuit with police a short time later, Beohm said. The remaining teen took off running into a field and was captured shortly after, he added. The escapees had earlier attempted to break into a car around midnight to 1 a.m., Beohm said in an early Monday update. I dont know what alerted the homeowners, but they broke the window of the car, lights came on, and then they took off, he said. All nine of the teens were captured within about four miles of the detention center and none actively resisted arrest, Beohm said. They will all be charged with escape, riot and aggravated and simple assault, and some will also be charged with theft by unlawful taking, according to a news release from the Berks County District Attorney. About 60 people, including state and local police, worked overnight to find the escapees. Police also employed K-9s and drones, Beohm said. The juvenile facility is about 15 miles west of South Coventry Township, where escaped murder convict Danilo Cavalcante was captured on Wednesday after nearly two weeks on the run. Were asking the people in this area again, kind of like we did two weeks ago, lock everything up, take your keys out of your car, be vigilant, Beohm said earlier Monday, before the teens were captured. The nearby Twin Valley School District closed Monday out of an abundance of caution. I figured wed catch these kids because theyre probably not as resilient as Cavalcante, who knew he was going to prison for the rest of his life, Beohm said. He said at least two of the teens looked weary and dirty when they were returned to custody. He noted the woods where they had escaped to are a far cry from the city of Harrisburg, where at least seven of the teens are from. The escape that prompted the overnight search for the teens was a coordinated effort, Beohm said. They were able to get the keys and then they were able to get out the side door, or one of the doors, he said. The teens likely got through the fence of the facility by going under it, he added. They were working in cahoots with each other to accomplish this goal, Beohm said. State police and local police responded to the scene and took control of the premises from the inmates who had been involved in a riot at Abraxas Academy, the district attorney said in a statement. I would call it more of a disturbance than a riot. It wasnt anything like what we had here a couple of months ago, Beohm said, referring to an incident at the facility in July. Fifty teenagers were involved in a riot at Abraxas Academy on July 4, CNN affiliate WFMZ reported. A large police presence responded and no one escaped, WFMZ said. It was a very serious incident, which I think the fact that 19 police departments responded to Abraxas Academy speaks for itself, Berks County District Attorney John Adams told WFMZ in at the time. Were concerned. Were concerned that this institution which houses our most serious juvenile offenders whove been accused of a crime or convicted of a crime they have to be able to maintain control, he added. Abraxas Academy is a secure residential treatment program that provides specialized care for delinquent male youth between the ages of 14 to 18 in 9th grade or above, according to the facilitys website. Treatment at the Academy is for youth who demonstrate a consistent display of delinquent patterns through multiple placements, serious charges, and problematic behaviors. Youth are admitted to the Academy for either habitual offending behaviors or for a history of sexual offending behavior, the website reads. CNN has reached out to Abraxas Academy and the Berks County District Attorneys Office for comment. CNNs Michelle Watson and Lechelle Benken contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Just days after ending a weeks-long manhunt for an escaped prisoner, authorities in Pennsylvania were back on the chase for nine teens who fled from a detention center following a "riot" at the facility Sunday night. By Monday morning, all nine had been located, the Pennsylvania State Police said, according to NBC Philadelphia. The teens had managed to escape from Abraxas Academy in Morgantown, about 50 miles northwest of Philadelphia, at around 8 p.m. ET Sunday night, police said in an initial post on X, formerly known as Twitter. The Caernarvon Township Police Department said the escape unfolded after a riot broke out at Abraxas Academy. State and local police responded to the incident and were able to take back control of the juvenile detention center, but some juvenile offenders were reported to have fled the facility and were on the run, the department said in a news release on its website. Four teens were found the next morning at around 5:45 a.m. ET on Oak Grove Road, which appears to be about five miles away from the detention facility, state police said in a Monday update. The remaining five were found not long after, they announced in a news conference, according to NBC Philadelphia. Police did not provide the ages of the escaped juveniles, but Abraxas Academy is described on the Abraxas Youth & Family Services website as providing specialized care for delinquent male youth between the ages of 14 to 18 in 9th grade or above. "Treatment at the Academy is for youth who demonstrate a consistent display of delinquent patterns through multiple placements, serious charges, and problematic behaviors. Youth are admitted to the Academy for either habitual offending behaviors or for a history of sexual offending behavior," the website states. The facility is around 15 miles west of South Coventry Township, where convicted killer Danelo Cavalcante was captured on Wednesday after nearly two weeks on the run following his escape from a Pennsylvania prison. The search for Cavalcante sparked international headlines before authorities were able to track him down using thermal heat technology, with a U.S. Border Patrol tactical unit dog ultimately pinning him down. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Nine youth Sunday night escaped from the Abraxas Academy, located in Morgantown, Pa. Photo courtesy of Abraxas Academy/Website Sept. 18 (UPI) -- Nine juvenile inmates from Pennsylvania are back in custody Monday morning after they escaped from a youth detention center on Sunday, worrying residents again about a manhunt. The escape at the Abraxas Academy in Morgantown, Pa., and search occurred 15 miles from where authorities took convicted murderer Danelo Cavalcante into custody last week following a two-week manhunt. Cavalcante had escaped from the Chester County Prison and then eluded law enforcement. In Sunday's escape, juvenile inmates, ranging from ages 15-17, overpowered two female guards during a riot, stole their keys, escaped out a side door and crawled under a fence, authorities said. Four of the inmates turned themselves in after knocking on the door of a home some 4.5 miles from the detention center at about 5:47 a.m., EDT Monday. "They basically gave up because they were tired, they were cold," said State Police Trooper David Beohm. "Those woods are a far cry from the streets of Harrisburg or Philly." Police captured the remaining five nearby at about 6:30 a.m. after they received a tip about a stolen truck and trailer. Berks County District Attorney's Office told UPI in a statement that all nine will now be charged with theft by unlawful taking for incidents that occurred outside of the academy during their attempt to flee the facility. No other information on the escape or the riot was made available other than the Caernarvon Township Police Department stating in a statement late Sunday that local and state law enforcement were at the academy where they "have taken back control of the juvenile detention center." According to its website, the Abraxas Academy houses "delinquent male youths between the ages of 14 to 18 in 9th grade or above." The escape comes less than a week after Cavalcante was recaptured in the same region of Pennsylvania. Cavalcante had escaped Aug. 31 from the Chester County Prison. The News Republican presidential candidates spent the weekend wooing social conservatives, most of them staking out positions to Donald Trump s right as Trump continued to warn activists that they could lose if they overemphasized abortion bans. I said to politicians, they just dont know how to talk about the issue, Trump told the Pray Vote Stand Summit crowd in Washington, D.C. on Friday evening. Its a complex issue, but they dont know how to talk about it. And if they dont speak about it correctly, theyre not going to win. Trump has refused to say what federal limits hed favor on abortion, and has repeatedly called Floridas new six-week limit a mistake by Gov. Ron DeSantis an analysis he repeated in a weekend Meet the Press interview. A number of Republican-led states, including Iowa, South Carolina, and Texas, have similar restrictions in place. The former president, who spoke at two social conservative events in D.C. on Friday in addition to his NBC News interview, did not detail what specific federal limits hed favor on abortion. Something will be negotiated, Trump told new Meet the Press host Kristen Welker. He took credit for appointing the justices who overturned , but suggested hed look to find a consensus on the number of weeks at either the federal or state level that fall under an abortion ban where both sides will be happy. Trumps stance and rhetoric put him at odds with some social conservative groups, like Ralph Reeds Faith and Freedom Coalition, which brought nearly every candidate but Trump to a Saturday gala in Iowa. His rivals at the event spent the day taking positions to Trumps right: Mike Pence repeatedly criticized Trump by name and reiterated his support for a federal ban on abortion after 15 weeks. Why would we leave unborn babies in California and Illinois and New York to the devices of liberal state legislatures and liberal governors? Pence asked Reed. We need to stand for the unborn all across America. In D.C., DeSantis briefly brought up his states Heartbeat Protection Act, declaring that they stood up to protect the culture of life by enacting the strongest pro-life protections in the modern history of Florida. One day later in Iowa, the Florida governor pivoted from a question on a possible federal limit states had done a better job thus far than Congress to say hed involve churches more in programs to prevent abortions and help mothers. Nikki Haley, who like Trump has tried to minimize talk of a national 15-week ban, was the only candidate on stage in Iowa who rejected some social conservative demands. She reiterated her opposition to Alabama Sen. Tommy Tubervilles blockade of military promotions as a way to stop the military from funding abortions: Why hold them as political pawns? (DeSantis said that he supported Tubervilles battle against abortion tourism.) The View from Shelby and Dave Donald Trump is already talking like a general election nominee who wants to move to where the swing votes are. He refuses to commit to restrictions that are unpopular with moderates, and so far it hasnt hurt him with conservatives. In a Washington Post/Monmouth poll completed after the GOP debate, just 7% of South Carolina Republicans traditionally, the least moderate of any early primary state listed abortion as their top issue. Twice as many cited the Justice Department being used for political purposes, an issue almost entirely about Trump. And, as he retains a wide lead over his Republican opponents, Trump seems more and more confident in pivoting to positions that are to the left of many social conservatives, indicating hes growing more confident that his lead will stick and that hes unafraid of losing that group of voters. Trump banking on social conservatives to stick with him despite his latest abortion remarks might just be a bet worth making: The former president overwhelmingly won the straw poll at the D.C.-based Pray Vote Stand Summit, even amid his criticisms over the subject. Thats bad news for his opponents, who, despite taking positions that more clearly align with that portion of the Republican base, havent been able to tear down the frontrunner. The View From Democrats Democrats, who have clearly been preparing for a Trump pivot, were all over social media trying to remind reporters of his long history of statements, promises, and actions, to court the anti-abortion vote. Trump takes credit and says that without me there would be no six week bans. And Trump is literally campaigning on signing a national abortion ban, Ammar Moussa, the rapid response director for Joe Bidens reelection campaign, tweeted. Notable Anti-abortion activists clearly want a Republican president willing to back federal legislation on the issue. They argue candidates should go on offense and refocus the political debate on Democrats support for the right to relatively unusual late-term abortions, where polls show voters are more conflicted, as Semafor reported back in January. Attorneys for Richard Allen, the man accused of murdering two teen girls in Delphi, Indiana, made shocking new claims in a new court filing Mondayasserting theres overwhelming evidence that Abby Williams and Libby German werent massacred by Allen, but were instead ritualistically sacrificed by a religious cult run by white nationalists. Defense attorneys wrote that German, 14, and Williams, 13, were killed by cult members in a sick ritual that included multiple people in 2017though they claimed Allen was not present at the time. His lawyers said the alleged killers practice the pagan Norse religion Odinism, which has been hijacked by white nationalists. Citing a letter sent to police in 2019, the defense said German and Williams were targeted because one of their parents, who is white, was dating someone of another race. The twisted allegation emerged as Allens defense tries to have evidence collected from a raid of his home be disqualified, which includes the finding of a pistol that links him to the crime. The defense claims the judge who signed the search warrant was unaware of the double murders alleged links to Odinismmaking the probable cause case for the Allens search warrant faulty. Alleged Delphi Killer Confessed in Jailhouse Call to Wife: Prosecutors Nothing links Richard Allen to any of the Odinite suspects: the same Odinite suspects that evidence strongly supports sacrificed Abby and Libby in some sort of pagan ritual, the filing read. Richard Allen had nothing to do with this crime, but rather is an innocent man; a patsy for the police, arrested 26 days before an election. Attorneys backed up their bombshell claims by pointing to eerie observations cops made at the crime scene. That included the finding of sticks that formed Germanic letterssymbols supposedly associated with Odinism. The filing claimed the sticks were painted with the blood of the massacred girls, and that sticks were placed in Abbys hair that crudely mimicked horns or antlers. The filing said there were clear runes left at the scene, which a state trooper wrote in a report appeared to be a satanic type of worshiping. These murdering Odinites left behind obvious signatures, symbols, defense attorneys said. Mondays filing also cited the FBIs analysis of the crime scene, which supposedly said the girls slaying was carried out by someone or multiple people involved in Nordic beliefs. The defense named five men they insist cops cleared as non-suspects too quickly. Due to either incompetence or a concerted intentionality, those in charge of the investigation refused to arrest or even properly investigate these obvious suspects, the filing said. The defense grilled cops for abandoning the possibility the teens were killed in a sacrifice despite there being an obscene amount of evidence linking Odinism to the crime scene. The filing listed 92 different reasons the defense claims German and Williams could not have been massacred by a single person, like Allen. The motion, filed by attorneys Andrew Baldwin and Brad Rozzi, totaled 136 pages. The defense hopes a judge will grant a hearing that will allow them to expose investigators alleged shortcomings and have the evidence against Allen thrown out. Allen is accused of kidnapping the teens as they hiked through Indiana's Delphi Historic Trails and brutally murdering them in February 2017. Prosecutors allege he killed the girls before moving and staged their bloodied bodies on the edge of a private farms property. Richard Allen. Indiana State Police The case instantly garnered national attention, which was rekindled in October when cops arrested Allen, a 50-year-old ex-pharmacy tech who is married with two children. Prosecutors said in June that Allen confessed to murdering the girls in multiple jailhouse calls with his wife. Also tying Allen to the murders was an unspent .40 caliber round that was found between the teenagers' bodies. Prosecutors allege that the bullet was linked to Allen's Sig Sauer Model P226 firearm through forensic evidence, which revealed the round had been cycled through his gun at some point. Authorities said that gun was recovered by police in last years raid on Allens home, along with numerous knives, sheaths, and pieces of potentially incriminating clothing. Allens wife said her husband used to own a blue jacket that appeared to be similar to what the girls suspected killer wore on Feb. 13, 2017. The teens had recorded a video that showed a mannow thought to be Allenwalking towards them on a narrow bridge. Down the hill, the man can be heard saying. Allen has pleaded not guilty to a pair of murder charges. Hes the only person facing charges in the double murder, but prosecutors have not ruled out the possibility that others may be charged eventually. In a separate motion Monday, defense attorneys asked for Allen to be transferred to another prison as he awaits trial. They said hes been living in hell and has seen prison guards wearing In Odin We Trust patches on their uniforms, making him fear for his safety. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Actor Billy Miller, who delighted soap opera fans for years with his portrayal of Billy Abbott on The Young and the Restless , has died. He was 43. Millers manager confirmed the news of his death in a statement to TODAY.com, adding that Sept. 17 would have been his 44th birthday. Emmy Award-Winning Actor Billy Miller died on September 15, 2023, in Austin, Texas. The actor was struggling with manic depression when he died, the statement reads. A cause of death was not provided. The 41st Annual Daytime Emmy Awards - Press Room (Jason Kempin / Getty Images) Soap opera fans watched Miller get his start on All My Children in 2007 before he became a cast member on The Young and the Restless. He won three Daytime Emmys in 2010, 2013 and 2014 for his role as the reckless playboy Billy Abbott. He stayed on the CBS soap opera until 2014, starring in 719 episodes. Miller then joined General Hospital as Jason Morgan/Drew Cain, which earned him another Daytime Emmy nomination in 2018 for outstanding lead actor in a drama series. He departed the ABC series in 2019 after 592 episodes. In addition to his soap opera career, Miller appeared in the 2014 Oscar-nominated movie American Sniper and also had recurring roles on Suits, Ray Donovan and Truth Be Told. His last role was a guest spot on NCIS in 2022, according to IMDb. Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and raised in Grand Prairie, Texas, Miller graduated from the University of Texas, Austin before relocating to Los Angeles. There, he decided to become an actor and booked multiple commercials before he was cast on All My Children. The actor is survived by his mother, Patricia, sister Megan, brother-in-law Ronnie, nephew, Grayson and niece, Charley. The statement also said Miller leaves behind a great many friends and colleagues who will miss his warm personality, generous spirit, and genuine kindness. In the wake of his death, Millers former soap opera co-stars paid tribute to the actor. "Selling Sunset" star Chrishell Stause took to Instagram to pay tribute to Miller. Stause played Amanda Dillon on All My Children from 2005 until 2011, while Miller joined the cast as Richie Novak in 2007, starring on the defunct soap opera for one year. Still processing this. Too many feelings, but you are gone way too soon and Im so happy I got to work with you all those years, but also call you a friend. I hope you are at peace now, Stause wrote in her Instagram stories below a photo of Miller and another picture of him kissing her on the cheek while she smiles as they stand on a red carpet. Chrishell Stause paid tribute to her personal and professional relationship with Billy Miller. (@chrishell.stause via Instagram) The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum and The Young and the Restless star Eileen Davidson shared a photo of her and Miller smiling next to each other as they both posed with their Emmys. Im so sad to hear of Billy Millers passing, she wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. His infectious charm and warmth left lasting impressions on all of us who were lucky enough to have him in our lives. I'm so sad to hear of Billy Miller's passing. His infectious charm and warmth left lasting impressions on all of us who were lucky enough to have him in our lives. Im gonna miss that mischievous smile. Love you Billy. pic.twitter.com/kTnML9Zxlw Eileen Davidson (@eileen_davidson) September 17, 2023 The Days of Our Lives actor continued, Im gonna miss that mischievous smile. Love you Billy. The Young and the Restless alum Michael Muhney, who appeared with Miller on the soap opera and Truth Be Told, said, Billy, My fellow Texas brother. You lit up every room with your smile. Your quiet intensity onscreen was second only to your gentle kindness and genuine care in private. Billy, My fellow Texas brother. You lit up every room with your smile. Your quiet intensity onscreen was second only to your gentle kindness and genuine care in private. pic.twitter.com/XRRk6swUjq Michael Muhney (@michaelmuhney) September 17, 2023 He included a photo of them in an episode of the CBS soap opera in his post. Actor Jason Thompson, who starred on General Hospital from 2005 to 2016 before taking over the role of Billy Abbott on The Young and the Restless in 2016, honored Miller, as well. Im so sorry and saddened to hear about my friend, Billy Miller. Heartbreaking. He was funny, had a great laugh and very talented. Light and love to his family and friends. Jason Thompson (@MyJasonThompson) September 17, 2023 He tweeted, Im so sorry and saddened to hear about my friend, Billy Miller. Heartbreaking. He was funny, had a great laugh and very talented. Light and love to his family and friends. This article was originally published on TODAY.com Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) says Donald Trump spoke volumes when he declined to say whether he called any military or law enforcement authorities to quell the Jan. 6, 2021, attack as it was underway. I thought that was one of most telling exchanges of the interview, because he wont say who he called, because he called no one to put an end to this, Schiff told CNNs Jim Acosta on Sunday. He sat there for hours watching the Capitol be attacked. He sat there in the comfort and security of the White House dining room and watched that mayhem unfold, he added. People came in to urge him to do something, to say something, and he rebuffed them. No wonder he doesnt want to answer the question. Schiff was discussing Trumps interview with Meet the Press anchor Kristen Welker, which aired Sunday. During one particularly outrageous exchange, Trump sought to blame Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) for the Capitol riot, claiming the then-House speaker was in charge of security and could have prevented the violence if shed accepted Trumps offer days earlier to bring in the National Guard. This is false on many levels and has been comprehensively debunked. The House speaker is not in charge of Capitol security, for starters, and theres no evidence Trump ever issued such a directive. Trump supporters hunted for Pelosi after breaching the Capitol, broke into her offices and left threatening messages. Trump supporters in Nancy Pelosi's office suite after breaching the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Trump supporters in Nancy Pelosi's office suite after breaching the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Trump made the Pelosi claim as Welker repeatedly pressed him to say whether he called military or law enforcement to subdue the violence as the Capitol was under attack. Im not going to tell you anything, Trump said. Schiff said the Pelosi blame was also typical of the former president. He does nothing but project onto others his own lack of action, lack of morality, but it doesnt fool anyone, he said. In her own response to Trumps comments, Pelosi said something similar. He knows hes responsible for that, so he projects it onto others, she told MSNBC on Sunday. Watch Schiffs interview below. Related... Photo: BCNDP MLA Adam Walker UPDATE 2:25 p.m. British Columbia MLA Adam Walker says he hopes to clear his name after what he called an "abrupt" decision by Premier David Eby to remove him from the NDP caucus over a human resources complaint. Walker said the premier told him in a two-and-a-half-minute call on Sunday afternoon that he would no longer be a member of the caucus. "And the gist of it was basically, I've made up my mind, you're out of caucus, and that was the crux of the whole conversation," Walker said Monday. Details of what led to Walker's removal have not been made public, with both Walker and Eby saying privacy rules prevent them speaking about a human resources complaint. "There's a clear path as far as next steps to clear my name and to address the situation and that'll be done through arbitration," Walker said. "And that process, I have full faith in happening in a timely way, to make sure that all the appropriate facts are considered and good outcomes are made." Eby told an unrelated news conference earlier Monday that he decided Walker needed to be removed after a formal investigation by the NDP caucus. He said a complaint by an employee was made in late July and the issue doesn't involve allegations of sexual harassment and is not a criminal matter. Walker called the situation "sad." "I've put a lot of effort into supporting a party that is putting people first, I still have faith in the party. But it's definitely a sad day for me and my family to be removed so abruptly," he said. Walker was elected to the provincial legislature in 2020 to represent the riding of Parksville-Qualicum on Vancouver Island. He was previously a town councillor in Qualicum Beach. He said it's always been his intention to run for at least a second term, but it's too soon to say whether that will still happen. Neither Eby, nor anyone close to him, has laid out a path that could lead to him being welcomed back to the caucus, he said. "It'll be a decision entirely up to the premier and I have faith (in) whatever decision he makes in that regard," he said. Eby said he doesn't believe what the caucus investigation found could be remedied by a training process for Walker, who will now sit as an independent. Walker said he has received many calls of support since the news of his removal was made public. He said no one has suggested he resign. "I'm going to take this opportunity now to to be a little bit more public and more vocal about the challenges in my community that I wasn't able to do while I was in caucus," Walker said, pointing to the large number of people in his constituency without a doctor. Eby called the situation "challenging" and said informing Walker he was being removed was "not a happy day." He said any time an MLA is removed from caucus is "an opportunity for review." "It's a big responsibility we ask people to take on as MLA, they not only have to represent their communities, they not only have to be up to date on policy and law, and be able to advocate, but they're also employers, they have to run an office in their community, they have obligations to their employees directly," Eby said. "And we're operating in a unionized environment with collective agreements as well, which adds a level of complexity for people who maybe haven't been employers before." Eby said he can assure the people in Walker's riding that a formal and thorough process was followed. "As in any human resources process, we have an obligation to privacy in those matters," he said. "And simultaneously, you know, Mr. Walker is a public official, accountable to the people of Parksville-Qualicum. I wish I could share more about this, but I can't." ORIGINAL 12:45 p.m. British Columbia Premier David Eby says a complaint by an employee in late July led to the removal of MLA Adam Walker from the New Democrat caucus, but the issue doesn't involve police or sexual harassment. Speaking to reporters for the first time since Walker was kicked out over the weekend, Eby says he decided the member could no longer be part of the group after a formal investigation by NDP caucus. Eby says he wishes he could share more but rules related to human resources and privacy prevent him going into specifics about the accusations, which are not a criminal matter. The premier says he doesn't believe what the investigation found could be remedied by a training process for Walker, who will now sit as an independent. An emailed statement from Walker's constituency office says it does not have a comment to provide on the situation. The premier says the situation was "challenging" and informing Walker he was being removed was "not a happy day." He says any time an MLA is removed from caucus is "an opportunity for review." "It's a big responsibility we ask people to take on as MLA, they not only have to represent their communities, they not only have to be up-to-date on policy and law, and be able to advocate, but they're also employers, they have to run an office in their community, they have obligations to their employees directly," Eby says. "And we're operating in a unionized environment with collective agreements as well, which adds a level of complexity for people who maybe haven't been employers before." Walker was elected to the provincial legislature in 2020 to represent the riding of Parksville-Qualicum on Vancouver Island. He was previously a town councillor in Qualicum Beach. Eby says he can assure the people in Walker's riding that a formal and thorough process was followed. "As in any human resources process, we have an obligation to privacy in those matters," he said. "And simultaneously, you know, Mr. Walker is a public official, accountable to the people of Parksville-Qualicum. I wish I could share more about this, but I can't" An air-raid warning has been issued throughout Ukraine due to the launch of cruise missiles by Russia. Earlier, the Ukrainian Air Force warned that up to seven Russian Tu-95MS bombers had taken off from Olenegorsk. The all-clear has now been given. Source: air-raid warning map, Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Telegram Quote: "Missile danger in areas where a warning has been issued! A threat that cruise missiles will be launched from Tu-95MS aircraft." Details: The Air Force is urging Ukrainian citizens not to ignore the sirens and head for cover. Later, the Air Force reported that a group of missiles was moving from the east to the south-west (the course may vary). 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! A Phenix City man charged with capital murder in Alabama committed suicide Sunday morning in the Russell County jail, according to sheriff Heath Taylor. Guards called the sheriffs office around 1:45 a.m. Sunday about an inmate who needed emergency care. The man, who Taylor identified in a Sunday afternoon press conference as Bradley Wayne Stokes, 39, died after hanging himself using torn strips of bed sheets. Taylor said Stokes was initially on suicide watch when he was arrested because of the severe nature of his criminal charges. Stokes was taken off of suicide watch after an office psychiatrist cleared him Sept. 9. Health professionals perform a mental health check on inmates who have been cleared from suicide watch if they demonstrate any concerning behavior or if they ask for a mental health check. Inmates on suicide watched are checked by guards every 15-20 minutes, while guards check other inmates every 2-3 hours. Taylor said that officers checked on Stokes around 11 Saturday night. Stokes made phone calls and sent texts throughout the night to loved ones, including his mother and girlfriend, using an iPad. Taylor said a note from Stokes was found taped to the wall of his cell using a band-aid. According to national and local media reports, Stokes was arrested Sept. 2 in Columbus in connection with the death of his pregnant ex-girlfriend, Treasure Hennessey, 37. Stokes had been released from prison after serving 14 years of a 16-year sentence for weapons charges and manslaughter for the 2008 shooting death of his then-girlfriend Crystal Bailey, according to Newsweek. Stokes allegedly killed Hennessey because he feared she would report him for domestic violence, which would violate his parole, Taylor said. Hennesseys body was found outside of a domestic violence safe house in Fort Mitchell, Alabama where she was seeking refuge, Newsweek reported. The Lee County Sheriffs Office is investigating Stokes death, according to Taylor. Republican lawmakers want to maintain their power so that they can control policy in this country, April Albright, legal director of Black Voters Matter says The Alabama redistricting legal saga continues after Republican lawmakers filed an appeal to keep a discriminatory congressional map in place. Last week, Alabama Republicans asked the Supreme Court to permit the state to keep in place its Congressional map, despite it being in violation of the Voting Rights Act. April Albright, legal director of Black Voters Matter told theGrio, GOP Republicans have never been an ally of Black voters in Alabama. The Supreme Court is seen under a clearing sky, Friday, June 30, 2023, after case decisions were announced in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) Theyve been able to maintain a position where they could ignore the rights of Black voters in Alabam, she said, adding that this is just continued bad behavior from the state GOP. In June, the Supreme Court surprisingly ordered the state of Alabama to redraw its congressional map, agreeing with a lower-court ruling that said the current map violates the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The state was instructed to create a second district with a Black majority, or close to one. The Republican-controlled Legislature has since proposed newly drawn map, which was also rejected earlier this month by federal judges. The three-judge panel said it would appoint a special master to draw new districts to increase Black voting power. In the latest appeal, Republicans in Alabama are building a case to use the discriminatory map in upcoming elections and prevent the court-appointed special master from proposing new district lines. Albright told theGrio, that she did not believe Alabama lawmakers would get it right after lawmakers defied the court order calling for a second Black district, which could challenge Republicans control of the U.S. House of Representatives. The GOP went back to the drawing board, which we all were concerned about. This is the same GOP that has ignored this for over ten or 20 years, Albright said. We had no confidence that they were going to go back and do the right thing. The U.S. Capitol is seen in Washington, Sunday, May 21, 2023. President Joe Biden planned on Sunday to speak directly with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, hoping to salvage talks to raise the debt limit that have stalled in recent days while he was abroad at the Group of Seven summit. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky) Albright told theGrio, that Republicans just want to maintain power and control in the state. [House Speaker] Kevin McCarthy wants to make sure that the Republicans keep the majority in Congress, she added. Its not difficult for them to draw a map that is compliant with both the district court and Supreme Court order. But they dont want to do it because it means that they have to they potentially are at risk of losing their majority status in D.C., she added. Albright said Black voters interests, such as policies around policing or reproductive rights, do not align with the GOPs agenda, so Republicans are working to suppress the Black vote. She added, that the bottom line is that Republicans dont want to have other voices that can determine the distribution of resources in the state and in this country. GOP wants to maintain their power so that they can control policy in this country and the more differing voices that arise minimizes their opportunity to do so, Albright said. TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today! The post Alabama Republicans continue efforts to dilute Black voting power appeared first on TheGrio. Richard Allen's attorneys took this photo April 4, 2023, of the man accused of the Delphi killings of teenagers Libby German and Abby Williams. He appears to have lost a significant amount of weight in his five months in prison segregation. He appears to have spittle on his shirt under his chin. Allen exhibits what his attorneys describe as "schizophrenic and delusional." DELPHI, Ind. Libby German and Abby Williams' accused killer, Richard Allen, requested a hearing to present evidence that the search warrant for his house was based on faulty probable cause, and the girls were murdered in a ritual killing by several people, not Allen, according to a 136-page memorandum filed Monday to support the motion to suppress. "Members of a pagan Norse religion, called Odinism, hijacked by white nationalists, ritualistically sacrificed Abigail Williams and Liberty German," states the memorandum filed Monday with a motion to suppress. "(N)othing, absolutely nothing, links Richard Allen to Odinism or any religious cult," the memorandum states. The killing of Libby and Abby Someone forced Libby and Abby off of the trails around the Monon High Bridge east of Delphi on an unseasonably warm Feb. 13, 2017, ordering them "down the hill," as recorded on Libby's video taken on her phone. Their abductor took the girls about a quarter of a mile east of the bridge, where the girls were killed on the north banks of the Deer Creek. Signs and other memorials are set up in honor of Abby Williams and Libby German. The two went missing on the Monon High Bridge Trail on Feb. 13, 2017. A press conference will be held Monday to address the ongoing investigation. Photo taken, Saturday, Oct. 29, 2022, in Delphi, Ind. Their bodies were discovered late the next morning by searchers. Their killings went unsolved for almost six years until Oct. 26, when Richard Allen was arrested. He was charged Oct. 28, and prosecutors allege that tool markings from a unfired bullet found between the two girls was ejected from Allen's semiautomatic pistol. Allen's trial is scheduled to begin Jan. 8. Clues of Odinism found at the scene "Odinism is the pagan religion referenced above, and its followers are called Odinites," the memorandum states. "Odinists are enamored of Viking/Nordic culture. "Evidence supports that at the crime scene, these murdering Odinites left behind obvious signatures, symbols in the form of runes (Germanic letters)," according to the memorandum. "These runes were (1) formed with sticks, (2) fashioned with tree branches and (3) painted using the blood of Liberty German." Clues to the Odinism killing included sticks placed over Abby and Libby's bodies at the crime scene to form Germanic letters associated with Odinism; a letter painted on a tree with Libby's blood; and faux antlers created with sticks branches placed above Abby's head, according to the memorandum. Additionally, some of the branches had been precut with a power saw, suggesting they were prepared before the killings, according to the memorandum. "This stick configuration is a spot-on resemblance for the rune (letter) called 'Hagal'," a footnote in the memorandum states . "This rune is used to depict the word Hail.' Therefore, the combination of the Hagal rune found on Abby and the Ansuz rune found on the tree when combined would proclaim 'Hail Odin.' "Delphi investigation seemingly, and quickly, abandoned the obvious correlation between the crime scene and Odinism, despite an obscene amount of evidence linking Odinism to the crime scene," the memorandum states. "(T)he Odinite angle was abandoned by March 2017, only a few weeks after the girls were murdered," the memorandum stated. "The reason for this abandonment: a Purdue professor had reached a conclusion concerning Odinism and the crime scene." No one can recall who the Purdue professor was who told them the Odinism was not involved, according to the memorandum. Motion for Franks hearing The evidence of a ritualistic killing was omitted and ignored in October 2022 when investigators requested a search warrant for Allen's home, according to the motion that requests the evidence from that search be suppressed. The motion alleges that then Carroll County sheriff's Detective Tony Liggett "chose to hid crucial information from the search warrant affidavit and provided false statements in said Search Warrant Affidavit." The 136-page memorandum supports Allen's motion for a Franks hearing. A Franks hearing places the burden on the defense to show that a "false statement knowingly or intentionally, or with reckless disregard for the truth" was used in an affidavit to get a warrant, according to govinfo.gov. Allen's memorandum, it states, "(T)he evidence supporting the assertions contained throughout this memorandum was buried deep in a mountain of discovery, thousands upon thousands of pages of paperwork and hundreds of hours of videos. But not buried deep enough. "... Or more simply put: the very detailed analysis of the facts allows the Court to conclude that 'yes, the omitted information and false information identified in the memorandum is the type of information that (Carroll Circuit) Judge (Benjamin) Diener would have wanted to know before signing the warrant. "Richard Allen ... request that this Court set this case for a Franks hearing at which time the Defense will be asking for the search warrant to be deemed illegal and the fruits of the illegal warrant to be suppressed." The Journal & Courier is still reviewing the 136-page memorandum and will update this report. Journal & Courier reporter Noe Padilla contributed to this report. Reach Ron Wilkins at rwilkins@jconline.com. Follow on Twitter: @RonWilkins2. This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Delphi murders documents: killing was a Norse pagan sacrifice YONKERS - Monday was a long-awaited day for the Namazi family, as Siamak Namazi , the longest held of the American prisoners in Iran, was released in a prisoner exchange. By late morning in the U.S., he had landed in Qatar for a prisoner exchange and was then expected to fly to Washington, D.C., his uncle said. "We have been waiting for this for so long," said Hushang Namazi, who lives in Yonkers. "I can't believe it's finally happened because, as you know, he was the longest American hostage held in Iran, nearly 8 years, since 2015. Finally, finally, after all these years." US citizens Siamak Namazi (C-back), Emad Sharqi (bottom-L) and Morad Tahbaz (bottom-R) disembark from a Qatari jet upon their arrival at the Doha International Airport in Doha on September 18, 2023. Five US detainees, three previously identified as Siamak Namazi, Morad Tahbaz and Emad Sharqi and two who wish to remain anonymous, released by Iran landed in Doha in a prisoner swap on September 18 after $6 billion in frozen funds were transferred to Iranian accounts in Qatar. (Photo by Karim JAAFAR / AFP) (Photo by KARIM JAAFAR/AFP via Getty Images) Siamak Namazi, 52, lived in Westchester for a time and was a 1989 graduate of White Plains High School. Namazi, along with Emad Sharghi, Morad Tahbaz and two other unidentified Americans, had been jailed by Iran on spying charges. Iran agreed to release them from prison while a $6 billion transfer of frozen Iranian oil funds was arranged. The deal also included the dismissing of U.S. charges against five Iranians accused of skirting American sanctions. Five Americans headed home from Iran Five Americans imprisoned in Iran are on plane to US as part of Joe Biden deal: White House How will the exchange for Namazi work? His uncle said Namazi was on a morning flight from Tehran to Qatar, where he and four other Americans will be exchanged for five Iranians who have been held by the U.S., in a ceremony likely to be reminiscent of Cold War prisoner exchanges between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. US citizens Siamak Namazi (back), Emad Sharqi (L) and Morad Tahbaz (C) disembark from a Qatari jet upon their arrival at the Doha International Airport in Doha on September 18, 2023. Five US detainees, three previously identified as Siamak Namazi, Morad Tahbaz and Emad Sharqi and two who wish to remain anonymous, released by Iran landed in Doha in a prisoner swap on September 18 after $6 billion in frozen funds were transferred to Iranian accounts in Qatar. (Photo by Karim JAAFAR / AFP) (Photo by KARIM JAAFAR/AFP via Getty Images) Namazi's mother, Effie, had been in Tehran in recent weeks as the release was worked out. She is on the flight with Namazi, her brother-in-law said. "They're flying to Qatar for the formal prisoner exchange and then they're going to fly to Washington," Hushang Namazi said Monday morning. "That's where Siamak's brother, Babak, and my brother, Baquer, will be waiting to see their brother and wife and son." Uncle: Namazi's father was held in same prison, then released The father-and-son reunion in Washington is likely to be emotional. When Baquer Namazi went to Iran years ago to seek his son's release, he was arrested and was held in the same Iranian prison, his brother said. Nazanin Boniadi, left, actress and activist, Sarah Moriarty, the daughter of Robert Levinson, a U.S. hostage in Iran, Babak Namazi, the brother of Siamak Namazi and son of Baquer Namazi, who are both being held hostage in Iran, and Richard Ratcliffe, the husband of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a U.K. hostage in Iran, speak about their family members who are being held hostage in Iran, Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2019, during a news conference in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) "My brother was living in Dubai," Hushang Namazi explained. "The Iranian prison authorities that arrested Siamak had held him for some time. They informed my brother, 'You can come to Tehran to visit him.' When he went to Tehran, at the airport, they arrested him and kept him there for two years." "For two years they were held in the same prison, but they weren't allowed to see each other," he said. The elder Namazi was released on humanitarian grounds, due to health concerns, his brother said. "After he was released from Iran, he went to London to be with my sister for a little while. He came and stayed with me in Yonkers for two months. Then he went to Toronto to stay with my older brother and sister. Then yesterday, he flew to Washington knowing the release is going to take place." Hushang Namazi said it's unlikely his nephew will be coming to Westchester after his return to the U.S. "They'll be in Washington for two weeks, at least," he said. "They have time to plan what they'll do next." Reach Peter D. Kramer at pkramer@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: American hostage freed by Iran has roots in NY, Westchester County Almost 20 staff members of a charity organization operating in central Afghanistan, including one U.S. national, have been arrested by regional officials in the Taliban-controlled nation, a spokesman for the provincial government in Ghor province told CBS News. The 18 detained aid workers were arrested for "propagating and promoting Christianity," a violation of the Taliban's strict regulations on all non-governmental groups, according to Abdul Wahid Hamas, the spokesman for the regional administration in Ghor province. Hamas told CBS News that all 18 individuals were transferred to the capital Kabul for further investigation. He said previously that one foreign national, an American woman, was among the detained NGO workers. A local employee of The International Assistance Mission (IAM) in Ghor province also told CBS News, on the condition that he not be named, that the detained foreign employee was a U.S. woman who works at the office. Taliban members ride in a pickup truck during a celebration of the first anniversary of the Taliban's return to power, August 15, 2022, in Kabul, Afghanistan. / Credit: Nava Jamshidi/Getty "At this time, out of respect for the family and our ongoing efforts to ensure their release, we can't confirm the nationality of the detained foreign worker," IAM told CBS News in a statement. The Taliban detained "three staff members two Afghan nationals and one international team member working at IAM's office in Ghor province on Sunday, 3 September 2023, a further 15 Afghan national staff members were taken from the same office on Wednesday, 13 September," the group said. Taliban chief spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told CBS News on Monday that Afghanistan's central government was still gathering information about the detention of the IAM employees in Ghor, and he declined to provide any statement on their arrest or the status of the investigation being carried out by the country's intelligence services. The IAM employee who spokes with CBS News said his colleagues were arrested by agents from the Taliban's intelligence agency, who carried with them a piece of paper bearing the names of those who were taken into detention. "They arrested my coworkers whose names were with them and told the rest of us to go home," he said. "They might come back for us, too." IAM said it was unaware of the nature of the allegations against its staff but that the organization stood by the principle that, "aid will not be used to further a particular political or religious standpoint." It added that "all IAM staff agree to abide by the laws of Afghanistan." "We are in a state of shock. We are accused of something I never imagined. We are just waiting to see what happens next and when they arrest us," the IAM employee told CBS News. Since taking control of Afghanistan more than two years ago the Taliban have tightened restrictions on nonprofit organizations operating in the country, despite a dire humanitarian situation. In December last year, the Taliban barred all NGOs, foreign and domestic, including humanitarian organizations, from employing women. Many organizations had long employed women to work within local communities, and they were all forced out of their jobs with the Taliban's decree, severely complicating work to provide everything from basic nutrition to education. IAM said in its statement posted online that it has worked in Afghanistan since 1966, "changing lives and empowering communities throughout Afghanistan," and spending more than $40,000,000 in the last decade alone "on initiatives aimed at improving healthcare, education, and community development." Hunter Biden sues IRS over privacy concerns Hasan Minhaj questioned over embellished stories in standup act Wild finishes highlight NFL's Week 2 Most Americans are not concerned with legislation around transgender issues and harbor doubts about whether lawmakers are informed enough on matters related to trans lives to create fair policies about access to gender-affirming care, according to a survey released Monday. In their second annual The State of Our Nation poll, The 19th and SurveyMonkey examined the state of women in America, with a particular focus on women of color and LGBTQ+ individuals. Respondents were asked about attitudes toward the economy, abortion, health care, guns and the workplace, as well as attitudes toward gender-affirming care and trans rights. Transgender issues don't feature prominently in most Americans political priorities, according to the online survey of more than 20,000 adults conducted in late August. Just 17 percent believed politicians should focus on restricting gender-affirming care, while 33 percent thought they should protect transgender individuals. While Republicans were more likely to support limiting trans rights, they opposed politicians focusing on transgender issues; 58 percent of Republicans oppose a focus on transgender issues compared to 49 percent of Independents and 32 percent of Democrats. Republican 'bullies' and trans issues Out California Rep. Robert Garcia, who has the distinction of being the only Democrat who sits on three committees with Georgia firebrand and MAGA Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, was blunt about why Republicans continue to use a losing issue to push hate. Its because the Republican caucus here in Congress is a bunch of bullies. They are willing and happy to attack folks who are the most marginalized, who are such a small part of the population, and who dont always have the ability or the resources to fight back, Garcia said in an interview with The Advocate. They view the trans community and trans families as an opportunity to reignite and continue their cultural wars. The survey drew parallels between public opinion on gender-affirming care and abortion. Most respondents -- 72 percent -- believed politicians lacked sufficient knowledge about gender-affirming care for minors to create fair policies. Similarly, approximately 63 percent of Americans support the idea that abortion should be legally permissible in most or all cases, while over 70 percent of Americans expressed doubts about the ability of politicians to craft fair abortion policies due to their perceived lack of expertise on the matter. Now that theyve realized that all their attacks on womens health and abortion have backfired on them, theyre now turning to the trans community and the broader LGBTQ+ community because its both issues as their favorite kind of bullying tactic, and its shameful, Garcia explained. He added, Its also important to remember that theyre also trying to separate trans people from the broader LGBTQ+ community. Were all in this fight together, and so were not going to allow it to happen. Republicans have added dozens of anti-LGBTQ provisions to must-pass spending bills and voted to strip funding from LGBTQ community programs in Democratic districts. The GOP's far-right wing has made it clear they're willing to shut down the government to get spending cuts and other demands. Ranking member of the House Appropriations Committee, Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Connecticut), told The Advocate that while shes mindful of the importance of LGBTQ+ issues, the public is consumed with economic issues that relate to their families, and House Republicans focus on stripping funding from LGBTQ-related programs shows that the GOP is only interested in tribalism. What the Republicans are trying to do is to create division and hate in our society and deal in a cultural way, which plays to peoples fears, and that flies in the face of what our responsibilities are as legislators, she said. People need resources to be able to survive and succeed and should have access to medical care, DeLauro said. The bottom line is that this hate has no place in our funding bills. Hate is not the underlying principle of passing a budget. Divided on care for transgender adults, children When it comes to gender-affirming care, Americans are divided. More than 57 percent of survey respondents expressed their support for the rights of transgender adults to access gender-affirming care. However, a significantly smaller percentage (39 percent) indicated their support for gender-affirming care for minors, revealing a complex public opinion landscape on this critical issue. As a doctor who sees and provides gender-affirming care for children with gender dysphoria, Angela Kade Goepferd understands the complexities of the science and the political landscape surrounding this treatment. Goepferd is the medical director of the Childrens Minnesota Gender Health Program in Minneapolis. Goepferd told The Advocate that there is a misconception that medical care for transgender young people involves secret conversations behind parents backs, or kids who are seen and immediately prescribed puberty blockers and hormones. Extremists also claim that doctors are performing gender-confirmation surgeries on children when, in reality, none of those things are the case. Gender-affirming care has been a part of medical education and treatment for decades. It is based on established standards of care shown to have positive mental health and well-being outcomes. Its important to understand that gender-affirming care is regular medical care, Goepferd noted. The survey also revealed a stark partisan divide on the subject of trans health care. Republicans were significantly less likely than Democrats to support gender-affirming care, the survey found. Democratic support for such care for adults stands at 83 percent, while Republican support is only 33 percent. Access to care for minors showed an even wider gap, with 68 percent of Democrats supporting it compared to just 12 percent of Republicans. Those who oppose transgender rights and the rights of people in general in this country have done a really effective job at framing the national conversation around gender-affirming care and around gender-affirming care for kids. (They) have made it very scary and have put out a lot of false information that is just simply not true, Goepferd said. Knowing transgender people can lead to a higher level of support for gender-affirming healthcare, according to the survey. Of those who personally know someone who is transgender, 67 percent support gender-affirming care for adults and 48 percent support it for minors, while those who have no personal connection with transgender people support it at 48 percent and 33 percent, respectively. Of those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, 84 percent supported gender-affirming care for adults, while 70 percent supported it for minors. What is gender-affirming health care? This debate over essential medical care is complicated because many Americans dont understand what it involves. There is broad support and recommendations for treating gender dysphoria by all major U.S. medical associations, including the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Goepferd said there have been standards of care in place in the United States through the Pediatric Endocrine Society and internationally through the World Professional Association for Transgender Health, or WPATH. Goepferd said that there are several misconceptions about gender-affirming care. The first misconception is that somehow this care is new or experimental, they said. Im a pediatrician who has been in practice for almost 20 years, and I was taught about caring for transgender adolescents and young people as part of my education." Goepferd explained that when young people have access to gender-affirming care, they benefit in many ways, including having a better sense of self and self-esteem. So the only reason that we provide access to care and support and medications for youth is that the outcomes have shown us over and over and over again that they do better, Goepferd said. So thats why we do it in the first place. Another misconception is that kids go to hospitals for gender-confirmation surgeries, which is false. Goepferd said that opponents of this care conflate the standard of care for adults with the care for minors. [Republicans are] talking about adult transgender care, particularly surgical care, and leading people to believe that that care happens for children, which is absolutely not the case, they said. Goepferd said that in rare cases, some transgender boys, when they are 16 or 17, may seek out and get approved for chest surgery. They said those procedures account for less than 0.5 percent of all transgender adolescents and only after extensive consultation, counseling, and consent from parents and the patient. In fact, far more cisgender teen girls get cosmetic breast implants or breast reduction surgery, according to a recent study. In 2021, 203 minors had gender-affirming chest surgery, compared to 3,200 who received cosmetic breast implants in 2021. I think theres a big misperception that someone wakes up one day when theyre 13 and tells their parents that theyre transgender, and by the end of the week, theyre on testosterone, and thats just like simply not how it works, Goepferd said. The diagnosis, gender dysphoria, relies on six months of persistent identity and symptoms, and the standards recommend waiting for a year or longer of onset of symptoms. So, again, this is a very long, thoughtful process involving multiple visits involving mental health and medical providers, and first and foremost involving parents. Despite the disparities in public opinion, a substantial number of Americans (47 percent) believed that gender-affirming care would become more accessible in their lifetime. Republicans and Democrats share this optimism, with 57 percent of each agreeing. A timeline for transition care Goepferd laid out some basics to understand about gender-affirming care. Recognition of Gender Identity: Gender identity typically develops in early childhood, around ages three to five. Transgender children may need support in understanding and expressing their gender identity. Creating Safe Spaces: Many transgender children face challenges openly discussing their gender identity due to unsafe environments. Creating safe and supportive spaces is crucial. Supporting Families: Parents of transgender children often have questions and concerns about how to support their childs gender identity best. This includes discussing topics like talking to schools and relatives and understanding ones rights. Social Transition: For pre-pubertal children, the primary focus is on social transition, allowing them to express their gender identity in various aspects of life. This might include using different names and pronouns or wearing different outfits or haircuts. There are no medical interventions for these children. Mental Health and Medical Care Integration: A holistic approach combines mental health and medical care to provide comprehensive support to transgender youth and their families. Puberty Suppression: As children approach puberty (around ages 11 to 14), discussions about the option of puberty suppression may arise. This reversible treatment can help align their bodies with their gender identity. Because everybody must go through one puberty or another to become an adult, this gives trans people time to go through puberty in line with their gender identity. Hormone Therapy: In late adolescence (typically 15 and older), discussions may involve hormone therapy (testosterone or estrogen) to ensure that puberty aligns with their gender identity. This treatment is partially reversible. Thorough Assessment and Consent: Before any medical interventions, a comprehensive assessment, including mental health evaluations and medical history, is conducted. Informed consent is an essential part of the process. Surgical Considerations: Surgery is generally not a part of care for transgender youth, except for chest surgeries for trans males, sometimes considered at 16, 17, or 18 years old. These are rare procedures. Parental Involvement: Throughout the entire process, parental involvement is crucial and required for transgender youth to access care. Five Americans wrongfully detained in Iran were released Monday as part of the Biden administrations agreement with Iran to unfreeze $6 billion in funds in exchange for the prisoners freedom. The five traveled from Tehran early Monday on a Qatari plane to Doha, a senior administration official confirmed. A plane carrying the Americans to Washington is due to land Monday night. Those released include Siamak Namazi , Morad Tahbaz , Emad Shargi and two others who have asked for their identities to remain private. The mother of Namazi and the wife of Tahbaz, who have not been able to leave Iran, traveled with the group of prisoners as well. In exchange for their release, the White Houses agreement granted clemency to five Iranians and issued a blanket waiver for international banks to allow the transfer of $6 billion of Iranian oil sale proceeds, frozen in South Korea to a bank in Qatar. All five Americans were sentenced in Iran to 10 years in prison on different spying charges. Who are the Americans freed in the Iran prisoner swap? Siamak Namazi Namazi, an 51-year-old Iranian American businessman, was arrested in 2015 and sentenced to 10 years in prison alongside his father, Baquer, for co-operating with a foreign enemy, BBC News reported. Both denied the claims, BBC News said. Baquer Namazi was permitted to leave for media treatment in 2022. In a statement issued on his behalf, Siamak Namazi said, I would not be free today, if it wasnt for all of you who didnt allow the world to forget me. Thank you for being my voice when I could not speak for myself and for making sure I was heard when I mustered the strength to scream from behind the impenetrable walls of Evin Prison, he said. Morad Tahbaz Tahbaz, a British American conservationist of Iranian descent, was arrested in 2018 and also received a 10-year sentence, according to The Associated Press. BBC News reported Tahbaz, 67, was arrested alongside eight other Iranian conservationists who were accused of spying after using cameras to track critically endangered wild Asiatic cheetahs. Emad Shargi Shargi, 56, was born in Iran but left the country as a child, CBS News reported. After he and his wife relocated to Iran, Shargi was detained in April 2018, released on bail and then cleared of the charges eight months later. He was arrested a second time in 2020 and sentenced to 10 years on espionage charges. Two unidentified prisoners Two of the freed Americans asked to remain anonymous, though CBS News reported one of the individuals is a female former United Nations worker. The Associated Press contributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Americans are less than 2 weeks away from a federal government shutdown, and Congress still can't agree on the best way to avoid it Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California wades through reporters on the way to the House floor. Kent Nishimura /Los Angeles Times via Getty Image A federal government shutdown could happen in 13 days. Conservative lawmakers proposed a bill to fund the government through October 31. But the Senate, and some House lawmakers, aren't onboard. There's a government shutdown looming yet again and, in a bit of legislative deja vu, lawmakers can't agree on how to avert it. Congress needs to come to an agreement to fund the government by September 30 , otherwise, it will once again shut down. The last government shutdown lasted for 35 days the longest in US history between December 22, 2018, and January 25, 2019. While a shutdown likely won't be as catastrophic as the debt-ceiling crisis legislators flirted with in the spring, the government running out of funding would still have a big impact: Goldman Sachs warned a shutdown could contribute to falling GDP growth. On September 17, Republicans in the House Freedom Caucus and the Main Street Caucus announced they had reached an agreement on a short-term continuing resolution that would keep the government funded for 30 days. According to the bill text, the legislation would continue funding for the 12 appropriations bills until October 31, while including an "across-the-board" 7.8% cut to discretionary funding and it includes a number of provisions aimed at strengthening the border, which has been a point of contention on both sides of the aisle. The House Rules Committee is expected to mark up the resolution on September 18, and it's set to head for a full House vote on September 21. Still, the government is 13 days away from shutting down and it's unlikely the Senate will approve this resolution. Even some House Republicans have said they will not support it, meaning that with the GOP's slim majority in the House, Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy can only afford to lose a handful of his party's votes on this funding bill. "It's crystal clear a Gov't shutdown is coming," GOP Rep. Tony Gonzales wrote on X, formerly Twitter, on Sunday. "I represent 66% of the Texas-Mexico border - a hollow Continuing Resolution built to win a messaging battle does nothing to keep America safe." Meanwhile, the Biden administration wants more funding not less to help keep key programs afloat. In late August, the Office of Management and Budget released a document viewed by Insider that laid out where the administration thinks more money is needed . That included government benefits like SNAP and Social Security, both of which, per the Biden administration, would struggle to get benefits and customer service out in a timely manner without more funding. The OMB did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment on Republicans' proposed continuing resolution. While the OMB has contingency plans for every federal agency to help them determine which areas of service should be prioritized, thousands of federal employees would be furloughed at the outset of the shutdown, constraining many government operations and putting programs Americans rely on at risk . Another sticking point for some Republican holdouts is an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden if the government shuts down, their ability to investigate the president would be put on hold. Even some GOP lawmakers in the Senate have previously said that while they might not agree with the impeachment inquiry, they think it might be the push that House members need to keep the government funded through the next month. "It seems like it's maybe part of the bargain over there to keep some folks in line on maybe the budgetary stuff," GOP Sen. Mike Braun told Politico last week. Even Biden has said he doesn't "know quite why" Republicans want to impeach him, saying in remarks at a campaign reception : "The best I can tell, they want to impeach me because they want to shut down the government." Read the original article on Business Insider By Anthony Boadle BRASILIA (Reuters) - Since he returned to office in January, Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has traveled to 21 countries and met with more than 50 heads of state, including two kings and the Pope. The globe-trotting leftist leader, the first head of state to address the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, has prioritized foreign trips in his third term so far, as he strives to restore his country as a global player. "Brazil is back," he repeats in speeches across five continents, in contrast with the growing isolation that came with his predecessor Jair Bolsonaro's hard-right political stance and dismal environmental record. But diplomats and foreign policy experts say Lula is far from restoring the "soft power" status Brazil enjoyed after his first two terms, from 2003 to 2010, when the country became a voice for the rising global south while remaining independent from both the U.S. and China. In part, that reflects the choppier waters the 77-year-old Brazilian leader now navigates, as Beijing and Washington flirt with a new Cold War while war rages in Ukraine. Brazil has also become increasingly dependent on Asian markets, which buy half of its exports. China alone, Brazil's main trading partner, buys 37% of its farm exports. "This is a very tricky balancing act and Lula so far has not been able to find the right equilibrium," said Oliver Stuenkel, an associate professor of international relations at the FGV think tank in Sao Paulo. "There is a perception in Brazilian society now that he is tilting towards the Sino-Russian axis more than the West." On Wednesday, Lula is scheduled to meet U.S. President Joe Biden to discuss the climate crisis on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly, focusing where the Brazilian leader has shined. Lula has helped to restore Brazil's central role in climate diplomacy, leading a regional rainforest summit, drawing global contributions to protect the Amazon and overhauling policies to bring down deforestation sharply. Even before he took office, Lula was greeted like a rock star last November at the U.N. climate change conference in Egypt. His polices have helped to nearly halve deforestation of the Brazilian Amazon through August, compared to the first eight months of last year, rebuilding Brazil's credibility for climate talks. But his comments about the war in Ukraine - he has said both sides are responsible for the conflict as he sought to broker a peace deal - have angered U.S. and European allies, who have accused him of parroting Russian rhetoric. Lula's penchant for off-the cuff remarks have occasionally made matters worse. During a G20 meeting in India this month, he said there was "no way" Russian President Vladimir Putin would be arrested if he attended next year's summit in Rio de Janeiro. When reporters probed him on Brazil's commitments to enforce an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court, he rowed back his comments but suggested Brazil could leave the ICC. "There have been some bruising moments. The whole Russia -Ukraine issue was a lesson learned," said Thomas Shannon, a former U.S. ambassador to Brazil who is now senior international policy advisor at Arnold & Porter. At last month's BRICS summit in South Africa, where the group of leading emerging economies expanded its membership as China called for, Brazil got Chinese backing for a permanent U.N. Security Council seat it wants. But that is unlikely to happen any time soon, according to Shannon. The closer ties to Beijing could complicate Brazil's relationship with Washington, including access to key technology, Shannon added. 'OUTDATED AGENDA' Closer to home, Lula has reaped little in concrete terms from Latin America's broad left-of-center alignment. The Mercosur trade bloc took nearly half a year to respond formally to a new European position on a trade deal now on the ropes. And Lula's longstanding sympathies with leftist governments in Nicaragua and Venezuela accused of human rights abuses have him looking out of step with a new generation of progressive Latin American leaders. Lula rolled out the red carpet for Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in Brasilia at a regional summit in May, helping to bring the socialist leader out of isolation. Other leaders, including Chile's leftist President Gabriel Boric, criticized Maduro's presence. Impressions of ideological bias may hurt Brazil's image as the country returns to the international spotlight, putting Lula at odds sometimes with his Foreign Ministry, said Rubens Barbosa, a former Brazilian ambassador to London and Washington. "Where is Brazil the defender of human rights? It's not clear what Brazil stands for today when it picks Putin and Maduro as allies," said a South American ambassador in Brasilia, who asked not to be identified. "Brazil is rapidly wasting its soft power by trying to be an international player with an outdated agenda," he said. (Reporting by Anthony Boadle; Editing by Brad Haynes and Paul Simao) Photo: The Canadian Press Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addresses the World Law Congress at the United Nations, Friday, July 21, 2023. Trudeau returns to the UN on Tuesday for two days of meetings with world leaders, environmental crusaders and civil-society luminaries at a time when urgent climate priorities and geopolitical uncertainty are likely to dominate the agenda.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Christinne Muschi At the annual UN General Assembly, that traffic-snarling symposium of international hand-wringing and high dudgeon now underway in New York City, the peril of climate change is always a prominent topic. But as Taylor Swift might say, it hits different after the summer of 2023. The year saw a record-setting wildfire season in Canada, more than 11,000 dead from catastrophic flooding in Libya and a record 23 separate billion-dollar weather disasters in the U.S. in just the first eight months. And it's far from the only existential crisis that will confront Prime Minister Justin Trudeau when he arrives Tuesday for two days of meetings with world leaders, environmental crusaders and civil-society luminaries. His trip comes on the heels of news Monday that Canadian intelligence agencies are investigating what Trudeau called "credible" information linking India's government to the killing of a prominent Sikh leader in British Columbia. Russia's war in Ukraine grinds on relentlessly, the global angst augmented by last week's ominous meeting in Vladivostok between President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The uneasy truce of the UN's own Black Sea grain deal has collapsed, all but cutting off the developing world from one of the planet's most vital sources of food, cooking oil and fertilizer. West Africa has seen no fewer than eight military coups since 2020, most recently in Niger and Gabon, while Haiti remains racked by political chaos and gang violence, all in the midst of an unchecked cholera outbreak. And the UN's ambitious effort to check off a laundry list of sustainable development goals a particular focus for Trudeau has largely stalled, hampered by political intransigence and sluggish post-pandemic economies. "It's a serious moment in the life of the world," said Bob Rae, Canada's ambassador to the UN, who cites climate, conflict and sustainability as the three biggest challenges facing this year's multilateral mosh pit. "There was sort of a school of thought that said, 'Every day, everything's getting better, it's not getting worse.' Right now, we can't say that." UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres acknowledged as much in his news conference Thursday. "We will be gathering at a time when humanity faces huge challenges from the worsening climate emergency to escalating conflicts, the global cost-of-living crisis, soaring inequalities and dramatic technological disruptions," he said. "People are looking to their leaders for a way out of this mess. Yet in the face of all this and more, geopolitical divisions are undermining our capacity to respond." In the U.S., the climate alarms are flashing red. A report Monday from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration catalogued the highest number of climate-related disasters ever recorded in a single calendar year one that still has three months to go. So far, 2023 ranks as the ninth-warmest in the continental U.S. in 129 years, with new temperature records being set just last month in Louisiana, Mississippi and Florida and a potentially historic hurricane season now underway. "The world is increasingly coming to grips with the reality that climate change is not a future event, it's a current event," Rae said. "It's a today issue, and it's as much about resilience, adaptation and really investing in infrastructure and other ways of protecting people's health and safety for the current crisis, which will be ongoing." The sense of urgency was palpable on city streets all over the world Friday and through the weekend, with massive protests unfolding throughout Europe, southeast Asia, Africa and the U.S. Thousands marched in cities across Canada, part of a co-ordinated show of force in advance of the UN meetings and Climate Week in New York, where the protests culminated Sunday in a massive rally that attracted tens of thousands. "Climate must be a centrepiece of inside and outside organizing an electoral and popular force that cannot be ignored," said Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), the climate standard-bearer for progressive Democrats. "This issue is the biggest issue of our time, and because of that we must be too big and too radical to ignore." Instead of talking about ambitious but unrealistic new emissions targets, the UN will instead press members on how they plan to hit existing ones, said Catherine Abreu, founder and executive director of the climate group Destination Zero. "This is a moment of honesty and inflection," Abreu told a news conference last week. "We need to get real about the fact that despite the targets that we have been setting over the course of the last decade, we are not delivering on those promises." In particular, Guterres will be focused on some of the biggest gaps between promises made and promises kept, one of which is the transition away from fossil fuels, she added. "Countries including, in particular, major producers like Canada will be asked how they plan to align their production of fossil fuels ... with their promises under international climate treaties," Abreu said. "There is an open question as to how Canada will align the positions that it's taking in those international fora with the action that it is taking here at home." One such action reared its head Monday when the federal government, which has been under pressure from Indigenous communities to rescind its support for the controversial Line 5 pipeline, did precisely the opposite. Government lawyers filed a brief urging a U.S. appeals court to reverse a June 2026 deadline to shut down the cross-border oil and gas conduit if it can't be rerouted around an Indigenous reserve in Wisconsin in time. Miamis influence over statewide politics became stronger Monday as Rep. Daniel Perez was designated speaker of the Florida House for the 2024-26 legislative term, becoming the second presiding officer from Miami in the last decade. Perez, 36, a Republican, will assume control at a time when his party holds a super majority in both chambers and controls all statewide offices in Florida. But, despite his youth, his supporters say his reputation as a straight shooter and a self-confident, well-respected leader has many expecting him to chart his own course in a Legislature that for years has been overshadowed by the culture war agenda of an ambitious governor. Hes going to take the House back, said Rep. Vicki Lopez, a Miami Republican who will be working with Perez to craft legislation next session relating to another round of condominium reforms. The impression is that the governor has had a very strong influence on the Legislature, as leaders in the House and Senate wanted to help him seek the presidency, she said. But whether or not Gov. Ron DeSantis wins the GOP nomination and presidency, Lopez said Perezs personality is more inclined to say: the House is the House, and I need this chamber to have priorities. Perez didnt spell out his agenda for his term as speaker during his designation ceremony speech, but told reporters afterward that the only issue he hears people ask about when he knocks on doors in his Westchester neighborhood is property insurance. He promised to continue chipping away at the issue but offered no immediate remedies. Perez told his colleagues he would focus on limited government, would work to balance the competing needs of our state, and would not use the power of government to enable only one point of view. Just because we have the power to do a thing, doesnt necessarily mean that we should. And just because we think we are right. It doesnt mean we are justified, he said. If the only people allowed to be free are the people who are doing what we want them to do, then we have forgotten what freedom really means. The problem with wielding the power of government like a hammer is that the people start looking like nails. A child of Cuban immigrants, having an autistic sibling Shaping his agenda, Perez said, was his upbringing as the oldest child of Cuban immigrants in a family with a younger brother, Brian, with autism. He spoke about how his family struggled with accessing services for his brother as eligibility requirements often changed for no reason. My brothers condition and my parents also taught me what really matters in life, he said. The patience I learned from being with my brother, made me impatient in so many ways...Interpersonal drama is a waste of time. The simple things in life are so special. And I cannot tolerate incompetence in government. Perez acknowledged his friendship with incoming Senate President Ben Albritton, R-Bartow, and talked about his growth as a legislator. Im not the same man who walked through those chamber doors for the first time, he said. I know more about the things that I know but more importantly, I know more about what I dont know. Rep. Lawrence McClure , R-Plant City, Perezs closest friend in the state House nominated Perez. As his Tallahassee roommate since they both were elected in special elections in 2017, McClure said Perezs greatest quality is his competitive spirit and desire to be competitive. In the last four years, the Legislature earned a national reputation as a rubber stamp for DeSantis as he worked to push the already conservative Florida Legislature further to the right to demonstrate he could be a viable Republican alternative to former President Donald Trump for the presidency. As DeSantis standing in national polls continues to sink farther behind Trump in the GOP presidential nomination race, the changing political dynamics could leave DeSantis as a lame duck governor and give Perez and Albritton leverage over the governor if they choose to use it. He has a real opportunity to govern, to lead the state, said Carlos Trujillo, a former state legislator who has known Perez for 15 years and is the former law partner of Perezs best friend, Andrew Vargas. Trujillo said he expects Perezs agenda will be less focused on ideological culture wars that have defined DeSantis tenure as governor and more focused on how [government] affects your average Floridian. That includes tackling homeowners insurance, housing affordability, the challenges of all the safety nets and the vulnerable populations that we have in our state, said Trujillo, who served for four years in the Trump administration. Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez, a Miami Republican, said the political dynamics in the GOP presidential race could change how DeSantis handles the Legislature going forward. Before session ended, he [DeSantis] was clearly on a different trajectory, and that has changed, she said. So now, I think that it will probably change the way he may govern. Miami Rep. Daniel Perez and his wife Stephanie Perez with their children, Camila Lucia Perez and Matias Daniel Perez. Perez was designated incoming House speaker on Sept. 18, 2023. Endorsing DeSantis for GOP nomination Perez has endorsed DeSantis for president and worked to advance much of the governors agenda. As the national chair of the American Legislative Exchange Council, a consortium of conservative legislators, Perez has also echoed many of the conservative talking points used by the governor. On Sunday night, DeSantis attended a small reception that served as the precursor for Perezs formal designation ceremony. A whos who of Miami politicos and Florida Republicans attended the Monday morning ceremony at the Capitol. Among them: Congressman Matt Gaetz, former state senator Frank Artiles, Floridas former business regulation chief Halsey Beshears, former Florida State University President John Thrasher and New College interim president and former House Speaker Richard Corcoran. In 2022, Perez shepherded through the House the governors election overhaul bill that created a new elections security office to investigate election fraud. Although election fraud is exceedingly rare, Perez called the measure an extra resource for local election supervisors to ensure there are absolutely no cases falling through the cracks. Perez was first elected to represent House District 116 seat in a 2017 special election to replace former Republican Rep. Jose Felix Diaz, who left office to run unsuccessfully for the state Senate seat vacated by Artiles. The district includes Sweetwater, parts of West Miami and South Miami. Perez won reelection in 2018 and again in 2020 even though he was targeted for defeat by a powerful member of the Miami delegation, outgoing House Speaker Jose Oliva of Miami Lakes. In that race, Perez drew a pro-Trump challenger from the right, Gabriel Garcia. Olivas adviser, David Custin, directed mailers and Facebook ads attacking Perez over a trip he took in 2017 to Cuba with his fiancee, during which they snapped engagement photos. Perez and his wife, Stephanie, now have two children and are expecting a third child soon. Incoming House Speaker Daniel Perez of Miami was elected national chair of the American Legislative Exchange Council in December 2022. How colleagues view Perez Several lobbyists and Perezs legislative colleagues describe him as hard-working, honest, well-liked and respected. Dannys strong suit is his ability to forge deep interpersonal relationships with other members of the Legislature, said Nick Iarossi, a Tallahassee lobbyist and one of his earliest supporters. Iarossi was among several lobbyists and legislators who gathered in Napa Valley earlier this month for a fundraising weekend for the House 2024 reelection effort, which Perez will lead. Also in attendance was Lieutenant Gov. Jeanette Nunez, who is also from Miami. Rather than remain seated during one elegant dinner, Perez worked the room, like a restaurateur, Iarossi recalled. He is always walking around, talking to everybody in the room, making them feel welcome, asking them how things are going in their life, and being attentive, he said. Building relationships is his superpower. Lopez, the Miami lawmaker, spent a career as an advocate and lobbyist before being elected to the state House. She now represents a moderate district and has taken several votes that went against the Republican caucus position on immigration, abortion, guns and unions. She said that Perezs willingness to not only listen to her but support her even when he disagreed was remarkable. I would talk to him a lot about those votes prior to taking them and he was always like, Listen, Vicki, you have to be a true representative of your district. she said.. Which is so unusual if you know former speakers. He never makes me feel like somehow Im on the out.And he had a better understanding of my district than anyone else. Trujillo predicted Perez will be transparent about the positions he takes, be willing to defend them, and not run from the media interview. McClure agreed that Perezs style will be one that is open to a member-driven process. He understands that no matter what the legislation is, if we dont have the debate, if we dont have the dialogue in it, were not earnest in those conversations as a legislature, youre not going to get a great product, he said. Perez urges colleagues to do their homework In his speech to his House colleagues, Perez urged them to spend less time in the social scenes of Tallahassee and more time doing your homework. It means being a person who has hard questions, really listening to their answers and being willing to challenge your own assumptions. Members. If you want to have a voice You must have something unique to say, he said. Iarossi said he thinks Perez will apply his relationship skills if he or his caucus disagree with the governor. I dont think Dannys coming in with any type of chip on his shoulder about anything thats occurred up until this point, he said. And when its time to take a different approach than one advanced by DeSantis or the Senate, Iarossi said Perez will work through those issues in a collaborative way and avoid these public fights, because thats his style. A lawyer by trade, Perez has shown to be a good fundraiser having raised more than $9.5 million since 2017. His campaign finance reports show a mix of contributions from trial lawyers, who played a significant role in helping him win the speakers race, and traditional large donors like Publix, Duke Energy and the Seminole Tribe, who generally give large sums to those marked for leadership positions in the Legislature. Perez graduated from Florida State University in 2009 and received his law degree from Loyola University New Orleans College of Law in 2012. Since he was first elected, Perez has filed several bills to financially support the WOW Center, a nonprofit organization in his district that teaches job skills to adults with developmental disabilities, and has used the state budget process to direct hundreds of thousands in funds to the center as well. Alexander Diaz-Cruz, a client of the WOW Center, sang the national anthem at the designation ceremony. As a memento of the ceremony, House members were given framed handwritten letters from someone who was part of Brigade 2506, the Cuban-exile group that attempted to overthrow Fidel Castro in the ill-fated Bay of Pigs invasion in 1960. Condo safety a legislative priority In 2022, Perez was the Houses lead negotiator in passing legislation designed to strengthen condo safety after the devastating collapse of Champlain Towers South in Surfside. Lopez led the Houses effort in revising the law last session, and expects to take the lead on more changes this year. Ron Book, a veteran lobbyist who represents many Miami clients, said he expects Perez to try to have an impact on healthcare, affordable housing and transportation, especially in areas where we have those local demands and needs. Miami state Sen. Ileana Garcia, a Republican, said she has already spoken to Perez about engaging the Legislature to make statutory changes that will offer protections to residents of homeowners associations and increase access to association financial records. Rodriguez, the state senator from Miami, is hopeful that Perezs tenure will mean good news for Miami-Dade County. Its always good to have a presiding office from your hometown, said Rodriguez, noting how historically, a presiding officer is usually able to champion causes for their home turf. Florida House rules allow each partys caucus to designate a member to be House speaker as early as six years in advance of assuming the job. The wind up gives incoming leaders time to prepare for the two-year sprint that is their final term because of the states eight-year term-limit rule. Because Perez was first elected to office in a special election in June 2017, he had an extra six months in the race for the speaker of the 2024-26 term. In August 2020, he defeated Rep. Will Robinson, R-Bradenton, to lead the caucus and has chosen several members of the 2017 class to be members of his leadership team. He will succeed Rep. Paul Renner, R-Palm Coast. In addition to McClure, others members of Perez leadership team include Rep. Josie Tomkow, R-Plant City, and Rep. John Snyder, R-Hobe Sound. Perez has disclosed a net worth of $2.3 million, much of it from his stake in a South Florida healthcare network UNNO Healthcare and UNNO Medical Centers. A $150,000 investment to the network in 2018 boosted his net worth from $420,000 that year to $2.3 million by the end of 2022, records show. Mary Ellen Klas can be reached at meklas@miamiherald.com and @MaryEllenKlas A few years ago, I found myself in the emergency department with an IV sticking out of my arm, absolutely convinced I was having a cardiac event. Eventually, I was sent home with a few reassuring words and the advice to just "keep an eye on" things. Two years ago, I was in a crowded restaurant when I started hyperventilating so badly a waitress rushed over to bring me water, fearing I was about to pass out. Yet when I describe these incidents to Matt Gutman, ABC News's chief national correspondent and author of "No Time to Panic: How I Curbed My Anxiety and Conquered a Lifetime of Panic Attacks," I feel the need to casually reassure him. "Oh it's fine," I say. But it takes one to know one. "No," he replies. "It's terrifying." Much like Gutman, if you put me in front of a room full of people or at the top of a roller coaster, I'm fine. At other times, however, my body and brain go into overdrive, and the result can be confounding, embarrassing and yes, terrifying. "You are the person I'm trying to reach by writing this book," Gutman tells me during a recent video chat. As he reveals in "No Time to Panic," panic attacks can take different forms and present themselves from different triggers. It's not always the people who seem most panicky who truly are. Some of us can cultivate what Gutman describes as s "public persona of jovial fearlessness," all while wrestling both the panic attacks and the self-perpetuating fear of them. "I embody a paradox," he writes, "the courageous coward." And even though, as Gutman reports, nearly a quarter of Americans will experience a panic attack at some point in their lives, they are still often seen as somehow hysterical or weak. It's easy to see why people who suffer from them especially men can be reluctant to talk about them or get help. But after misreporting the early details of Kobe Bryant's fatal 2020 helicopter crash and earning a suspension from his job, Gutman has been forthcoming about his anxiety. He's also candid about the varied treatments he's tried, from ketamine-assisted therapy to ayahuasca to meditation. What he says now is that "I don't have a panacea. It doesn't exist, or it doesn't exist for me. But the one thing is to let people know that it's okay." Gutman talked to me about the unique challenges men face with panic attacks, and why we need to reframe our anxiety in a positive light. This conversation has been lightly edited and condensed for clarity. In you book, you talk about the idea that people who have these panic attacks may not be nervous Nellies. You can be a brave person, you can be a strong person, you can be an adventurous person, and you can still be vulnerable to these experiences. I think it's partly evolutionary, that there are some of us who are good at certain skills. I do think of myself as the person who would have been trying the weird looking mushroom. I feel comfortable in doing feats of physicality that other people think are insane. That in some ways is my comfort zone, and it's not putting it on. It's where I feel mastery. But in certain social interactions where I feel that I might be judged, I feel that massive amount of fear of failure. In many ways, it makes tremendous sense. I know that the chances of being killed, let's say in Ukraine, are actually minimal for a reporter going there. The chances of me being killed within a mile of my home in a car accident are much higher, or as high. But the likelihood of me messing up on air and being judged by my peers and being told by the executive producers, "Listen, you have panic, and we don't trust you anymore because you're a loose cannon. We're going to excommunicate you from this tribe of ours, and you're no good to us," evolutionarily, my brain is like, "Oh, you're in the wilderness. That is the zone of death. That is where you need to be afraid." To me, that's catastrophic. It's with these human interactions, where there actually is a significant risk of obliteration. For many of us, panic is not necessarily something we've had as our companion our whole entire lives. Often there's a traumatic component to it as well, which sometimes comes hand in hand with depression, anxiety, PTSD or ADHD. How does panic play into these other things that may be going on mentally and psychologically with us? First, I think that it could be purely genetic. Obviously, we know, medically and scientifically and psychologically, that it is exacerbated by certain traumatic experiences. People experience trauma in all sorts of different ways and in all sorts of different phases in their lives. One of the other things I'm trying to say that panic makes sense. We should be terrified. Me speaking on television is insane. The whole concept of a failure happening is significant. The consequences are monumental. Anybody speaking in public or interacting with other humans, we are judged by our peers, and by the very nature of how essential cooperation is between humans in groups. That is as scary as a lion coming to kill us. To me, one of the great sources of comfort in the book was learning that I am not broken, that my panic and my anxiety are not the source of some weird genetic kink, that this actually totally makes sense. And I hope that everybody gets that message that a higher propensity to anxiety and panic makes so much sense. That, to me, is what the actual realm of normal should be. I feel like the whole spectrum should be shifted over a bit. I have been that person who has gone to the hospital, thinking something is medically wrong with me. As you say, the physical symptoms are almost indistinguishable. What is happening? And how common is this? First of all, I'm so sorry. It's so scary and so just overwhelming. It's telling you that you are in a state of threat that is so significant, that unless you deal with it, you are going to die. I don't have a panacea. I wish I did, like, "Meditation is the thing that's going to solve your problem, or this five minute hack." It doesn't exist, or it doesn't exist for me. But the one thing is to let people know that it's okay, that this is normal, that what they are feeling is not some evil trick on the brain. It is the brain telling them they need to sort something out, and it does feel like you are dying. You are not crazy for thinking that you need to go to the hospital. Your brain is telling you to solve a threat that is imminent, and it will kill you unless you sort it out. If there's anything anybody takes away, it is that it's okay. I want to reduce the shame and reduce the stigma, on myself as well. That is so key, to strip away the self-hatred that I had lacquered on for years and years, adding a new layer every time I had a panic, a new layer of self hatred and anger over f**king it up yet again. And I'm sure that people like you feel, if you've been to the hospital, "Oh, I'm so dumb. Why did I go when I didn't need it?" As you say though, the doctors there aren't going to say "You're having a panic attack." They're going to say, "Okay, it seems like everything's stabilized. Come back if it gets worse." You're not necessarily sure what even really happened to you. Something that came out after this book went to press was a new study that 40% of all admissions to American emergency departments for cardiac reasons are people having panic attacks. They found that only one to 2% of the people who are suffering a panic attack and are initially admitted for whatever cardiac reasons are treated on the spot. About a third of them are told that it's a panic attack or it's anxiety related and released to go home and figure it out. The majority are not told exactly what the hell's going on. And only one to 2% are diagnosed and treated the hospital. Which is awful. The statistics lean towards panic being more of a female problem. Yet the shame in not wanting to seem "hysterical," around not being the strong man, I think is probably not leading men to make that connection that what they're experiencing is panic. You say in the book, it's definitely not leading them to speak up about it. I think you're hitting the nail on the head. The inverse of the national incidence of panic disorder is substance abuse. Men are much more likely to abuse alcohol, especially, than women are. And that's because a lot of men mask anxiety through the use of substances, particularly alcohol. I'm not a teetotaler. But I also believe that alcohol is the most dangerous and vile drug that exists on the market. The shamans in Peru, and most indigenous cultures, say that alcohol is a spirit that steals your soul. There is a lot of that in our society. That's one way that men mask their anxiety and panic. The other is that they just don't talk about it. I was so surprised when I started revealing this big secret, that most people accepted very readily, and with love, particularly men. The more I started talking about it, the more I realized these men were like, "You know what? I wake up in the middle of the night with these terrors. I don't know what it is." So many men and people in positions of power and great wealth experience this. I had no idea. I think most people don't have any idea. I think the people who are conducting the surveys don't have any idea. Because we don't know. I was someone who had been in therapy since I was 12 years old. I did not know that I suffered a panic attack for nearly 15 years after I suffered a panic attack and had hundreds of them in that space of time. I didn't exactly know what it was called, or what it was. If someone like me is going through that, I just can't imagine what a big subsect of American society is experiencing, and has no idea, and is not talking about it. And someone can be having a panic attack right in front of you and you may not know. It doesn't necessarily look like some of mine have looked. They're not all built the same way. If you'd had the heart attack kind every time, well, that's how people become agoraphobic. You've obviously found some way to live an amazingly fulsome life. But so many of the people in our panic attack support groups haven't left the house any years. That is heartbreaking for anyone who experiences it, because it can limit you so deeply. It hasn't really limited you in your life, either. All while having that hanging over you and knowing it can strike at any time. My biggest fear in my work is not so much like some people who feel like they're going die. My fear is, I'm just going to lose control and speak in tongues or say the wrong thing and get suspended for screwing up some massively important live special event like Kobe Bryant's helicopter crash. Now that you've gone through it and you've had it happen, has it in some ways neutralized some of that fear? In some ways, it did ameliorate the fear of it happening, because I did survive it. On the other hand, I realized that my worst fear did come true, which actually made doing cognitive behavioral therapy very difficult. I realized that I have very good reason to be afraid, so I had to find other sources. While I do believe that there are massive benefits to the psycho educational tentpole of cognitive behavioral therapy and the exposure part is well, I had to take some of that with a grain of salt. I had to find other remedies to help me. So yes, I know I've been through the worst or hopefully the worst. Once it happened, the worst was over, and then it was working on fixing it. In the book you run through all kinds of possible remedies for panic. Ultimately what you come to is, there is no magic bullet. What have been among the most important things that you that have helped you through this and have helped you along the way in dealing with panic? The connective tissue between all the psychedelic experiences is that it helped me get to a place that I struggled mightily to get to in my day to day, which is this altered state where I can actually grieve. I can cry, I can excavate some of this internal pain that I've been carrying around and do carry around. There was massive relief in getting there to that place, but it's really hard for me, and so I need help. I didn't know that altered states specifically the psychedelics, but breathwork too helped me get to this place. I was terrified of going there. That was the one place I didn't want to go. But I used the the skill set that I have, the courageous part of the coward. I will run through fire. You're telling me I have to do this remedy, and it comprises massive amounts of vomiting and diarrhea and intestinal distress. Okay, I'll do it. I threw myself into the physical in order to get to the emotional, where I'm less strong or at least more hesitant. These altered states took me to this well of grief. I started digging out all the muck that had built up there over decades of burying grief, and digging out that muck made me feel a lot better. The problem with that is, it's constant maintenance. I need to get back in there. It's been a little bit since I've had a macro psychedelic experience. I've done some micro[dosing], recently, which is great. But I need to do another macro experience to excavate some of the muck that has congregated again in that well of grief. Near the end of the book, you speak directly to your male readers and you say, men, you might need to cry. We need to make more room in our society, just in general. But men have to take the reins of their own emotions. We can't blame anybody else for this. We need to find an avenue to express. Without it, we do things that are impulsive, and we make mistakes. Want more health and science stories in your inbox? Subscribe to Salon's weekly newsletter Lab Notes. There are many things that are good about being the way we are. What do you want to say to people who are who are struggling with shame and embarrassment, that maybe we can be kind to ourselves? Again, it's normal. Not only that, hypersensitivity to other humans' reactions is not only normal, it's an evolutionary advantage. We need people to be sensitive. If everybody were just walking around not caring what other people thought, there would be absolute chaos, and humans would not be able to cooperate in the most beneficial way. In our day to day, it can be crushing, and it can lead to mistakes. But evolutionarily, we are primed to be hypersensitive to the other people in our group, because everything depended on the group. If you run afoul, and you don't notice the cues that you're given, you're going to get kicked out. You're going to be on the savannah, and a lion is going to bite off your head. It is as threatening as life and death for humans, because all we depend upon are our social networks. So it's normal. And if you have a panic attack, one of the things that Mike Telch from the University of Texas says is that the actual period of your brain assessing the threat around it is 15 to 60 seconds. Whatever it is, it's a matter of seconds, and that's the worst of it. That's the peak of the panic, and the rest is downhill. Your body's dealing with anxiety, you're still burning off the excess epinephrine and cortisol for a little bit after that. But it's going to work itself through your system. I want to tell all those people that it is going to be okay. You can survive this. You can certainly survive 15 to 60 seconds of panic, because you've been through anxiety your whole entire life. Robert Fico , a former prime minister of Slovakia and frontrunner in the country's upcoming parliamentary elections, said that he would stop support for Ukraine if he returns to power, the Associated Press reported on Sept. 17. In an interview with the AP, Fico said that "we wont send any arms or ammunition to Ukraine anymore, if his party, SMER, forms a government. "No amount of Western weapons going to Ukraine would change the course of the war," and a "compromise peace deal" should be negotiated with Russia, he told the AP. He claimed that it is "naive to think that Russia would ever abandon the territory it controls in Ukraine. Fico opposes EU sanctions against Russia and wants Slovakia, a NATO member, to block Ukraine from joining the alliance. He has also repeated the myth that the war in Ukraine began as a civil war, a narrative Russia used to try to conceal its involvement in Donbas. On Aug. 30, he told a crowd of supporters that the war in Ukraine began "when the Ukrainian Nazis and fascists started to murder the Russian citizens in Donbas and Luhansk," repeating Russian propaganda. Fico was previously the prime minister of Slovakia from 2006 to 2010. He was re-elected in 2012 but resigned in 2018 following a political crisis sparked by the murder of the investigative journalist Jan Kuciak. Before he was killed, Kuciak had investigated corruption scandals in Fico's party and alleged ties between the Italian mafia and figures in Fico's network. Read also: Poland, Hungary, Slovakia to extend bans on Ukrainian grain Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron said Monday morning theres no question that, if elected governor, he would sign a law adding exceptions for rape and incest to Kentuckys near-total ban on abortion. The Republican nominees statement, made on the Tony & Dwight show on NewsRadio 840 WHAS, is a significant departure from his past position, which is to support the commonwealths ban as-is. Following the reversal of Roe v. Wade last year, Kentuckys trigger ban took effect, criminalizing abortion except when a pregnant persons life is threatened. Concurrently, a fetal heartbeat law, or six-week ban, also became enforceable. That law outlaws abortion after fetal cardiac activity is detected, typically around six weeks of pregnancy. The combination of both laws has led to a virtual elimination of abortion in Kentucky. If our legislature was to bring legislation before me that provided exceptions for rape and incest, I would sign that legislation, Cameron said on the show. Theres no question about that. The Herald-Leader asked the Cameron campaign about why and when the nominee changed his position, or if hed proactively encourage the legislature to pass a bill with exceptions. The campaign issued a statement that did not specifically address many of those questions, but rehashed Camerons words while reaffirming support for the current law as well as the openness to supporting a change to its exceptions. Daniel Cameron is the pro-life candidate for governor and supports the Human Life Protection Act. But if the situation in Kentucky were to change and the legislature brought him a bill to add exceptions for rape and incest, he would, of course, sign it, spokesperson Courtney Norris said in a statement. Norris also contrasted Camerons position with Beshear , whom she called an extremist on the issue. The radio shows hosts asked Cameron about a recent ad from Gov. Andy Beshears re-election campaign, which slammed Camerons support for those bans. In the ad, Erin White, a prosecutor in Louisville who most recently worked at the Jefferson County Attorneys office, highlights her experience going after serious criminals before calling Camerons position on abortion unconscionable. Daniel Cameron thinks a 9-year-old rape survivor should be forced to give birth, White said. Nobody no child should ever have to go through that. Cameron believes rapists have more rights than their victims. Thats extreme and thats dangerous. Cameron said hes going to make sure Kentucky has a culture of life. But the things that have been said in these ads, they are shameful. If someone rapes a child, we are going to go after them with the full force of the law, Cameron said, before then making his remark about supporting exceptions. He then continued: The Beshear administration and the Beshear campaign are running a smear campaign against me, but its not going to work because people see through the trash that they are trying to put out in television. Alex Floyd, spokesperson for the Beshear campaign, said Cameron has been clear in his support for Kentuckys extreme abortion ban with no exceptions for survivors of rape or incest. He has repeated that position in public statements, questionnaires, press interviews, and debates, Floyd said in a statement. As attorney general, Cameron repeatedly defended this extreme law with its lack of exceptions in front of multiple courts, including the Kentucky Supreme Court. Either recent polling numbers have changed Camerons core beliefs, or he is lying to Kentuckians now that he is seven weeks from an election. Beshear has regularly made hay of Republicans position on exceptions for rape or incest as too extreme, but has spoken relatively little of his own position on abortion rights. When pressed, hes said he believes Roe, which allowed abortions to take place up until viability which occurs late in the second trimester of pregnancy, got it generally right. This ultimately should be a rare, but legal procedure. There are reasonable restrictions that could be placed on it. Ive always been against late-term procedures, Beshear said last year. The radio shows hosts also asked Cameron about another recent controversy that has surrounded his campaign: his responses to the Northern Kentucky Right to Life candidate questionnaire. The survey in question, published in April, falsely equates abortion medication with emergency contraception and the so-called standard birth control pill. Critics have taken Camerons affirmative answers to mean he supports criminalizing birth control because he responded yes to a question asking if hed support making it a criminal offense to perform or assist with an abortion. Cameron, once again, called his critics completely absurd. Again, it is completely absurd, Cameron said on the show. I support birth control. I support contraception. Again, this is a smear campaign by Andy Beshear because they know that theyre going to lose this race, and so theyre clinging to and trying to do whatever they can. In response to questions from the Herald-Leader Friday, Cameron was clear that he is against taxpayer funds including Medicaid paying for contraception. When asked about adding exceptions to Kentuckys ban, Cameron has repeatedly parroted his support for the current laws in recent months. During a March debate ahead of the Republican primary, each candidate was explicitly asked whether they supported adding rape and incest exceptions. Cameron dodged the question, saying, instead, Well, I support the current law. A May Republican debate brought a nearly identical answer from Cameron. He was asked twice for a yes or no answers about exceptions, and both times reiterated his support for the Human Life Protection Act the trigger law and the exception therein. The only other time Camerons office has publicly hinted at potentially endorsing the addition of rape and incest exceptions to the states abortion bans was during oral arguments in the case challenging that ban before the Kentucky Supreme Court last November. Cameron has consistently championed Kentuckys strict abortion restrictions. Last years court case, brought by Kentuckys two remaining outpatient abortion clinics, argued that Kentuckys bans violated an individuals right to privacy and bodily autonomy under the Kentucky Constitution. As the high courts justices questioned Solicitor General Matthew Kuhn, who defended both laws, Kuhn said it was within the courts power to add rape and incest exceptions in their ruling in the case. The question before the court was specifically whether to reinstate a lower courts injunction temporarily blocking both laws. If the courts concern is about the lack of a rape or incest exception in our abortion law, I can envision an opinion that say the equities in those narrow circumstances are quite different, because of the criminality, because of the involuntariness, Kuhn said. I do think the court would be well within its rights to not affirm the injunction but narrow it to apply only in those narrow circumstances of rape or incest. Then-Chief Justice John Minton questioned this logic. The General Assembly had refused to adopt an amendment adding rape and incest exceptions during House Bill 3 in 2022, a separate bill restricting abortion access. An amendment to add those exceptions to the trigger law, itself, also failed. Im not going to hide the ball, Kuhn said. There have been various votes throughout the years. He then assured the high court there was a plan in the works for a bill to be filed during the 2023 legislative session to that end, to amend the trigger law retroactively. My understanding is that a bill including rape and incest exceptions is going to be pre-filed, Kuhn said. I would urge the court to let our General Assembly address this issue. During this years session, a bill was filed to that end by GOP Whip Jason Nemes, R-Louisville. It called not only for adding rape and incest exceptions, but also exceptions for fetal abnormalities incompatible with life. It was the only attempt by the political party in power to add exceptions. The bill was never assigned a committee. In response to Camerons seemingly new public stance, Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates questioned which version of his recent statements on abortion are true. The organizations leadership operates a political action committee that has raised more than $200,000 to message against Cameron and other down-ballot candidates, citing his record on abortion. Is Cameron lying when he signs pledges to ban birth control and abortion access, or is he lying now that he is down in the polls, the organization asked Monday night in a statement. Abortion is a winning issue, and thats what Cameron is banking on in November. Herald-Leader reporter Austin Horn contributed to this report. When it comes to Area 51 , the line between reality and folklore is often blurred, leading to a cloud of mystery that hovers over this secretive military base. By delving into the specifics, we salute the men and women who may or may not be reverse-engineering flying saucers as we speak. Coordinates and topography Area 51 is situated in southern Nevada, within the boundaries of the Nevada Test and Training Range. Specifically, its GPS coordinates are approximately 37.2350 N, 115.8111 W. The facility encompasses Groom Lake, a dry salt flat that has provided an ideal location for an expansive runway. The mountainous terrain around the lake helps to obscure the base from public view, making it a perfect spot for classified operations. Its so secretive not even Google Maps dares to sneak a peek without permission. Architectural blueprint One of the key Area 51 facts often overlooked is the facility's layout. It features a single, extraordinarily long runwaymeasuring up to 12,000 feetthat can accommodate all types of aircraft. The complex also has a range of hangars, control towers, and administrative buildings. Some reports also suggest an extensive underground facility, though these remain unconfirmed due to the classified nature of the base. We can neither confirm nor deny the presence of a subterranean lair suitable for a Bond villain/cutting-edge research. U-2 to OXCART Established in 1955, the initial purpose of Area 51 was to serve as a testing ground for the U-2 spy plane. The U-2 program was pivotal during the Cold War for reconnaissance missions over the Soviet Union. Subsequent projects included testing the A-12 OXCART, a precursor to the SR-71 Blackbird, another aircraft legendary for its speed and stealth capabilities. These airplanes provided vital intelligence throughout the Cold War and other military conflicts. And let's not forget its unsung role as the playground for aviation nerds and engineers who make rocket scientists look like amateurs. Modern-say significance While past achievements offer a historical view, Area 51 continues to be instrumental in modern military research and development. Some believe the current focus may include advanced drone technology, stealth tech enhancements, and possibly even directed-energy weapons. The secrecy ensures that the United States has the strategic upper hand, a fact that strengthens national security and our military prowess globally. Because nothing says 'America is on the job' like classified tech so advanced it might as well be from another galaxy. Photo DigitalGlobe via Getty Images via Getty Images. When social media paves the way While Area 51 has always been shrouded in secrecy, the public's fascination with the facility has often nudged the government to acknowledge its existence and role, albeit in a limited manner. For instance, Area 51 was officially recognized by the CIA only in 2013, following a Freedom of Information Act request. This was a milestone in government transparency, showing that public interest could indeed influence policy and information release. Or at least make them admit they have a super-secret desert base, which is kind of a win, right? In 2019, the viral " Storm Area 51, They Can't Stop All of Us " Facebook event attracted over 2 million RSVPs. In turn, this compelled the Air Force to issue a stern warning against any attempt to breach the facility. But, of course, that did nothing to deter the folks who thought - for sure - there were aliens at Area 51. Interestingly, this led to an official gathering called "Alienstock." If you're not in the know, Alienstock is a music festival celebrating the aura of mystery around Area 51. Naturally, fest-goers can't get close, so they celebrate from afar since it's as close as you'll get to Area 51 without donning a camo suit and dodging security patrols. Aliens? For real? No discussion of Area 51 facts can be complete without addressing the pervasive rumors of extraterrestrial involvement. These theories gained traction in the late 1980s. That's when a man named Bob Lazar claimed to have worked on reverse-engineering alien spacecraft at a site near Area 51. Cool story, bro. While these claims have been widely discredited, they fueled a cultural fascination with the possibility of alien activities. However, no concrete evidence has ever been presented to substantiate these extraterrestrial claims. But hey, who doesn't love a good conspiracy theory with their morning coffee? Skunk Works Skunk Works, Lockheed Martins advanced development program , has been extensively involved in many projects at Area 51. Its a symbiotic relationship between the military and private sector that exemplifies the ingenuity and innovation of American engineering. Skunk Works collabs showcase America's tech genius. With code names this cool, it's like James Bond meets Tony Stark. Project OXCART unveiled the A-12 reconnaissance aircraft, setting the stage for the iconic SR-71 Blackbird. The level of secrecy surrounding the project was so high that even the initial pilots didn't know what they would fly. Meanwhile, Skunk Works birthed the F-117 Nighthawk, the world's first operational stealth aircraft. Conducted primarily at Area 51, this project epitomized the clandestine nature of these groundbreaking initiatives. Skunk Works founder Clarence "Kelly" Johnson laid the foundation with his visionary engineering, establishing 14 rules that continue to serve as an industry standard for rapid, secretive project development. His successor, Ben Rich, further propelled the unit's achievements, playing a pivotal role in the development of stealth technology. The talent pool at Area 51 and Skunk Works, cultivated in a crucible of pressure and secrecy, continues to produce technologies that keep America safe. And possibly, just maybe, a secret stash of lightsabers. Just saying. Secure against aliens and humans Area 51 takes security to legendary heights. It layers advanced monitoring systems over typical military protocols. The site uses advanced camouflage, like nets and hangars that blend into the landscape. Motion sensors in the desert can tell humans from animals. Techniques for dodging satellite surveillance are classified but effective. The airspace above Area 51, known as R-4808N or "The Box," forbids unauthorized entry, enforced by military interception. Radar systems jam unwanted communications, blocking civilian tech. Security contractors, known as Cammo Dudes, patrol the area with M16s and can detain trespassers. Every worker swears a lifetime secrecy oath which means they could tell you what's going on, but then they'd have to make you disappearinto a desk job filing paperwork for eternity. The facts that make us proud Separating Area 51 facts from the myriad of myths and rumors reveals a facility of monumental importance to American military history and current defense capabilities. So, while the conspiracy theories about Area 51 might tickle your imagination, the facts make it legendary. Whether you're into technological marvels or hope to confirm your suspicions about E.T., Area 51 keeps us proud and intrigued. And for the record, if there are aliens, they know better than to mess with American military might. Two Mississippi artists living in Hattiesburg started an organization to bring together Hispanic artists, who are largely underrepresented in the state. Hector Boldo, a native of Mexico, and Jacqueline Wooton, who originally is from Puerto Rico, started the Mississippi Latinx Art Association to give a voice to the Latinx arts community. "The purpose of the association is to support Hispanic artists and give them a platform to show their work," Boldo said. "It can also help them show who they are and tell their story." The organization uses the newer Latinx to be more inclusive, regardless of sexual orientation, Boldo said. "What I've noticed is there's a lack of Hispanic representation," Wooton said. "Surely with the large Hispanic community we have here in town, there has to be tons of artists that are just not known. Let's do something so we can represent these artists." Hattiesburg artists Hector Boldo and Jacqueline Wooton started an organization to bring together Latinx artists in Mississippi, Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023. Membership in the association is open to Hispanic artists working anywhere in the state. "We want to do workshops and art shows with other people," Wooton said. "But we also want to find other venues and businesses that would host the work." Boldo and Wooton kicked off the association's first show, "My Faith, My Scars and Religion," on display through Oct. 31 at Main Street Gallery, 210 Main St., in Hattiesburg. Both artists have work featured in the exhibit, including a couple collaborative pieces. Hispanic Heritage Month begins Sept. 15 and runs through Oct. 15. "The idea for the show was to show our perspective on religion," Boldo said. "This could be some of the rituals we do sometimes because of the faith that we have." "My work has a lot of religious connotations as well," Wooton added. "It was meant to be." One of Boldo's students, Brallan Martinez of Petal, whose parents are from Mexico, also has some of his artwork in the show. "I just finished this one," Martinez told guests at the opening exhibit. He pointed to his latest work, which includes a Mexican flag that is made from symbols Martinez said represents elements of his family life and his parents' native homeland. "My artistic inclination is deeply rooted in my family's traditions," he said in his artist statement. To learn more If you'd like to know more about the Mississippi Latinx Art Association or become a member, visit mslatinxart.com or follow the group on Facebook at facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095423299421. For questions or comments, email mslatinxart@gmail.com. Do you have a story to share? Contact Lici Beveridge at lbeveridge@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter @licibev or Facebook at facebook.com/licibeveridge. This article originally appeared on Hattiesburg American: Hispanic heritage represented with Mississippi Latinx Art Association FILE - Dozens of boxes full of signed petitions are delivered to Atlanta City Hall, Monday, Sept. 11, 2023, to force a referendum on the future of a planned police and firefighter training center. Atlanta City Council members voted 15-0 on Monday, Sept. 18, for city officials to open and make copies of the petition, even though city officials say they won't verify signatures or move forward with a referendum while the city awaits a court decision over whether the petitions had been turned in on time. (Miguel Martinez/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP, File) ATLANTA (AP) Atlanta's city government will scan and release copies of petitions against a proposed police and firefighter training center, even though the city still isn't verifying voter signatures or otherwise moving forward with the citywide referendum sought by Stop Cop City activists. The Atlanta City Council voted 15-0 on Monday to direct the city clerk to scan petitions that referendum proponents say contain 116,000 signatures from voters, which would be twice the number required to call the vote under state law. Opponents of the $90 million, 85-acre (34-hectare) project hope that releasing the signatures and showing they are valid will build political pressure on the city to stop fighting the referendum or encourage City Council members to bypass the signature process and to place the referendum on the ballot anyway. City lawyers have argued the council doesn't have the power to set a referendum without a valid petition. Mayor Andre Dickens and city officials have argued that the petition drive can't legally cancel a lease that the city signed with the private Atlanta Police Foundation to build and run the complex, calling the challenge futile and invalid. Legal limbo only intensified last week. Organizers who delivered boxes of signed petitions on Sept. 11 were told that the city clerk was legally barred from verifying the signatures. Officials said organizers had missed an Aug. 21 deadline. But previously, a federal judge extended that deadline until September. However, an appellate court on Sept. 1 paused enforcement of that order, raising questions about the extension. Dickens on Monday said the publication of the signatures will back up his previously expressed desire to know how many residents really support the vote. As I have stated before, I support allowing the process to run its course in an open and transparent manner," the mayor said in a statement. "Like many, I want to know exactly what is in those boxes and this moves us one step closer. The council amended the original motion brought by council member Liliana Bakhtiari, who opposes the training center. Bakhtiari's original motion proposed redacting most voter information. The amended motion says redactions will comply with Georgia's open records law. But top leaders of Georgia's Democratic Party are increasingly voicing doubts over the city's course of action. Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock on Friday urged Atlanta's mayor to err on the side of giving people the ability to express their views in a letter. He expressed concerns about the city's decision to adopt a signature-matching verification process. Activists and prominent voting rights groups have decried signature-matching as voter suppression. Democrat Stacey Abrams , former candidate for governor, also criticized the city in recent days. Regardless of ones position on the subject matter, the leadership of the city should make every effort to allow direct citizen engagement by vote, Abrams told the Journal-Constitution. The city's position may also be driving away residents who had previously supported the training center. City Council member Alex Wan on Monday said he's hearing from many constituents "who were supportive of the training center but are enraged by the process. U.S. District Judge Mark Cohen, who is overseeing litigation on the training center, accused city officials of moving the goalposts on the campaign, saying they have directly contributed to a widespread sense of confusion over the matter. In a statement responding to the judge, Atlanta officials denied having changed their stance and said that even though they don't believe the referendum push is valid, they issued the petition in a gesture of goodwill and good faith. Dickens and others say the new training facility would replace inadequate training facilities, and would help address difficulties in hiring and retaining police officers which became more challenging after nationwide protests against police brutality three years ago. But opponents, who are joined by activists from around the country, say they fear it will lead to greater militarization of the police and that the construction project will exacerbate environmental damage in a poor, majority-Black area. Dating apps are displayed on a computer and a phone in Sydney, Monday, Sept. 18, 2023. Australia's government say the online dating industry must improve safety standards or be forced to make changes through legislation, responding to research that says three-in-four Australian users suffer some form of sexual violence through the platforms. (AP Photo/Rick Rycroft) CANBERRA, Australia (AP) Australias government said Monday the online dating industry must improve safety standards or be forced to make changes through legislation, responding to research that says three-in-four Australian users suffer some form of sexual violence through the platforms. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said popular dating companies such as Tinder, Bumble and Hinge have until June 30 to develop a voluntary code of conduct that addresses user safety concerns. The code could include improving engagement with law enforcement, supporting at-risk users, improving safety policies and practices, and providing greater transparency about harms, she said. But, Rowland added, if the safety standards are not sufficiently improved, the government will use regulation and legislation to force change. What we want to do in this sector is not stifle innovation, but balance the harms, she told reporters. The government is responding to Australian Institute of Criminology research published last year that found three-in-four users of dating apps or websites had experienced some form of sexual violence through these platforms in the five years through 2021. Online dating is actually the most popular way for Australians to meet new people and to form new relationships, Rowland said. The government is concerned about rates of sexual harassment, abusive and threatening language, unsolicited sexual images and violence facilitated by these platforms, she added. The Australian Information Industry Association, which represents the information and communications technology industry in Australia but not the online dating sector, welcomed the governments approach as very measured. Thats the way the government should regulate technology, the associations chief executive, Simon Bush, said. Point out where theres an issue, get the industry together and get the industry to look to see if they can resolve these issues first before pulling the regulatory trigger. Match Group, which owns and operates popular dating services including Tinder, Hinge, Plenty of Fish and OK Cupid, said it would continue to work with regulators and partners including Australia's Queensland Police Service and Australian umbrella group Women's Services Network to combat gender-based violence and strengthen safety across platforms. Safety guides everything we do at Match Group and we share the Australian governments commitment to strengthen Australians safety, Match Group said Tuesday in a statement. This is an important conversation that should not be limited to a single industry but extend to address these systemic issues that occur everywhere, from public streets to workplaces and to social media platforms ensuring a holistic approach to cracking down on abusers and bad actors, the statement added. Bumble said the dating service stands with the Australian government in our shared hope to eliminate gender-based violence. It is a core part of our mission to create a safe and kind online environment for people to make connections, Bumble said in its statement Tuesday. We know that domestic and sexual violence is not only an enormous problem in Australia, but across the world, and that women, members of LGBQTIA+ communities, and First Nations are the most at risk. We remain steadfast in our commitment to trust and safety across our community, continuing to help educate our members on ways to remain safe on and off of our platform while fostering a community rooted in kindness and respect - so that over time we can have a positive impact, the statement added. Kath Albury, an online dating researcher at Melbournes Swinburne University of Technology, said safety improvements could include a clearer sense of how quickly a user could expect feedback after reporting an unwanted or threatening contact. One of the things that dating app users are concerned about is the sense that complaints go into the void or theres a response that feels automated or not personal responsive in a time when theyre feeling quite unsafe or distressed, Albury said. Russian attacks in Ukraines Kherson and Donetsk oblasts on Sept. 18 killed one civilian and injured four more, according to local authorities. In Kherson Oblasts Beryslav, Russian forces struck the area near a local bus station with a drone, wounding four residents, Governor Oleksandr Prokudin reported. The victims, three men aged between 56 and 75 and a 67-year-old woman, are receiving medical assistance, Prokudin said on Telegram. Beryslav lies around 70 kilometers east of Kherson, just across the Dnipro River from the Russian-occupied Kakhovka. According to Prokudin, Russian multi-weapon attacks against Kherson Oblast on Sept. 17 and overnight killed four people and wounded another seven. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine liberates Klishchiivka in Donetsk Oblast after months of heavy fighting Early on Sept. 18, Russian troops also shelled Avdiivka in Donetsk Oblast, killing a woman, Vitalii Barabash, head of the city military administration, told Suspilne. Fighting has been ongoing north of Avdiivka for the second day, Barabash said. The situation is very tense but under control. Avdiivka is located in the center of Donetsk Oblast. Before Russia's all-out war against Ukraine, it had a population of over 31,000 people. Only 1,653 residents currently remain in the city, heavily destroyed by constant shelling, according to Barabash. Read also: Russia holds sham elections in occupied Ukrainian territory Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Debris from a Marine Corps F-35 stealth fighter jet that crashed in South Carolina after the pilot ejected and parachuted to safety was found Monday, authorities said, the third costly accident in recent weeks. The pilot ejected and parachuted safely into a North Charleston, South Carolina, neighborhood at about 2 p.m. on Sunday. He was taken to a local hospital, where he was in stable condition, Maj. Melanie Salinas said. The pilots name has not been released. Officials located a debris field two hours northeast of Joint Base Charleston on Monday. Residents were told to avoid the area as rescue teams begin the recovery process. The U.S. Marine Corp will take over the incident. Acting Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Eric M. Smith ordered the stand-down while authorities searched near two South Carolina lakes for the missing FB-35B Lightning II aircraft. Its the third event documented as a Class-A mishap over the past six weeks, according to a Marine Corps announcement. Such incidents occur when damages reach $2.5 million or more, a Department of Defense aircraft is destroyed, or someone dies or is permanently disabled. 'This stand down is being taken to ensure the service is maintaining operational standardization of combat-ready aircraft with well-prepared pilots and crews,' Marine Corps officials said in a news release. Commanders will spend the stand-down reinforcing safe flying policies, practices and procedures with their Marines, according to the Monday release. The announcement gave no details on the two previous incidents. But in August, three U.S. Marines were killed in the crash of a V-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft during a training exercise in Australia, and a Marine Corps pilot was killed when his combat jet crashed near a San Diego base during a training flight. Cpl. Christian Cortez, a Marine with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, said the search for the fighter jet in South Carolina was ongoing Monday. Exactly what happened was under investigation, he said. Focus on the search The F-35B Lightning II jet began its flight from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. The aircraft was part of a Marine fighter attack training squadron with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. Officials searched north of Joint Base Charleston near Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion based on the aircrafts last known location. Two planes were flying together but there is no evidence that one interfered with the other. The second jet landed at Joint Base Charleston, according to officials. A South Carolina Law Enforcement Division helicopter joined the search for the F-35 after some bad weather cleared in the area, Senior Master Sgt. Heather Stanton at Joint Base Charleston said. The planes and pilots were with the Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing based in Beaufort, near the South Carolina coast. Contributing: Cybele Mayes-Osterman; The Associated Press This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: F-35 military fighter jet: Debris found after South Carolina crash JACKSONVILLE, N.C. The mothers did not know why their babies were dying at Camp Lejeune. Jeri Kozobarich noticed something was wrong as soon as she arrived at the sprawling U.S. Marine Corps training facility in North Carolina, healthy and seven months pregnant, in the spring of 1969. At a reception for the wives of the officers on the base, Kozobarich approached another pregnant woman who was round as a ball and dressed in black. When are you due? Kozobarich asked. My baby is dead, the woman said, before turning away. Image: Jeri Kozobarich in Jacksonville, N.C., on July 18. (Rachel Jessen for NBC News) Horrified, Kozobarich raced home, unable to fathom such a fate. Then, at a routine weekly checkup at the facilitys Naval hospital about two months later, she had to. A doctor told Kozobarich, who had no previous pregnancy complications, that the baby girl in her womb was dead. Kozobarich, then 24, carried the baby for another three weeks until she delivered on May 24, 1969. Then she buried her first child in a section of a cemetery known as "Baby Heaven," tucked next to Camp Lejeune, where dozens of infant graves surround Kozobarichs daughter's and the tiny teddy bear statue that marks her headstone. As she and her Vietnam-bound husband grieved, Kozobarich said the units commanding officer visited their home with intentions to console them. Instead, she said, he sat down on their couch and burst into tears himself. He sobbed, Kozobarich recalled, and he said, Why is this happening to all of us? Image: The gravestone for Justice delayed In one of the largest water contamination cases in U.S. history, up to 1 million people who lived or worked at Camp Lejeune from 1953 to 1987 may have been exposed to a drinking water supply contaminated with chemicals that have been linked to severe health problems, including cancers and birth defects, federal health officials said. Women on the base quietly suffered repeated miscarriages, stillbirths and other defects during that time period, but many said their losses were often dismissed. Today, as they continue seeking justice under a new law meant to expedite litigation, their cases have fallen under intense scrutiny, which has left many women, including 23 who spoke to NBC News, feeling as dismissed as they felt decades ago. Its like were invisible, said LaVeda Kendrix, 65, a Marine veteran, who had one stillbirth and nine miscarriages. Image: LaVeda Kendrix in Jacksonville, N.C., on July 18. (Rachel Jessen for NBC News) When the Camp Lejeune Justice Act was enacted last year, it allowed victims to pursue litigation against the government if they could prove they were at the base for at least 30 days during the contamination timeframe and that the exposure to the tainted water likely caused their health issues. But miscarriage and female infertility cases have been uniquely difficult to litigate, according to four attorneys who represent tens of thousands of Camp Lejeune claimants. For the vast majority of all cases particularly those related to adverse birth outcomes its been challenging, and sometimes impossible, to retrieve necessary medical records to prove the arguments from so far back, the attorneys said. They had to wait 30, 40 years to file a claim. It wasnt their fault that delay of time has caused the absence of records, said Ed Bell, the court-appointed lead counsel for Camp Lejeune plaintiffs. About 500 people who Bell represents have experienced miscarriage, stillbirths and birth defects, his firm said. On top of that, the women will have to show that Camp Lejeunes contaminated water more than likely caused a condition that afflicts much of the general population. Birth defects, for example, affect one in every 33 babies in the nation annually, while stillbirth occurs in about 1 in 175 pregnancies, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As many as 26% of all known pregnancies end in miscarriage, or the loss of pregnancy, before 20 weeks, researchers have found. It will be a very scrutinizing process, said Andrew Van Arsdale, an attorney representing 9,500 Camp Lejeune claimants. That process, he said, could go on for decades. Image: LaVeda Kendrix, a Marine veteran, had nine miscarriages and one stillbirth. (Courtesy LaVeda Kendrix) LaVeda Kendrix was stationed nearby at Marine Corps Air Station New River but trained, had meals and ran errands at Camp Lejeune from 1979 to 1986. Besides a cesarean section scar, there is no physical proof that Kendrix had ever lost the baby boy she did not get to bury. Now theres nothing to indicate, but memories, that I gave birth to a deceased baby, she said. Decades of poison water For more than 30 years, multiple sources contaminated Camp Lejeunes supply wells, including waste from a nearby dry-cleaning facility and leaks from underground storage tanks on base, according to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, which is part of the CDC. There were extremely high levels of trichloroethylene, tetrachloroethylene, vinyl chloride and benzene colorless chemicals that can cause several diseases, including cardiac defects and some cancers, the ATSDR said. A pregnant woman would not need to be exposed to the poisoned water for a long period of time to develop birth defects, including neural tube defects, clefts and low-birth weight, according to Frank Bove, a senior epidemiologist who led the ATSDRs investigation of the bases contamination. Image: Crystal Dickens was a Marine mechanic stationed at Camp LeJeune beginning in the late 1970's. (Courtesy Crystal Dickens) You dont need a long-term exposure, he said. It could be days or weeks. Birth defects can occur during any stage of pregnancy, with most occurring in the first three months when the babys organs are still forming, according to the CDC. Some occur during the last six months of pregnancy, as the tissues and organs continue to grow, the agency said. Crystal Dickens, a Marine mechanic, spent about 10 hours a day working at Camp Lejeunes motor transport pool beginning in the late 1970s. Because its hot, youre burning up, youre going to drink what you get, she said. We swam in it. We drank the water. We bathed in the water. We were totally exposed. Dickens, then 20, had three miscarriages in a row in 1979 before becoming pregnant with twins. At her six-month checkup, Dickens went into the Naval hospital and discovered there was only one heartbeat. There is no record whatsoever of my child who passed away in the womb, she said. Image: The entrance to Camp LeJeune in Jacksonville, N.C., in 2017. (Fred Marie / Corbis via Getty Images file) Someone dropped the ball In the early 1970s, Kozobarich said adverse birth outcomes were so widespread among women on the base that some mothers treated it like a contagion, avoiding one another or hiding in their homes. Everyone was afraid, she said. Military leaders were alerted to the water problem as early as 1980 when they received a U.S. Army lab report containing a handwritten note that said the water was highly contaminated, Justice Department attorneys have admitted in court filings. Camp Lejeune enlisted an outside lab to test the drinking water system in 1982 when the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency was expected to issue new regulations. The results were troubling, showing chlorinated solvents in the drinking water, according to Mike Hargett, the co-owner of the lab. At the time, Hargett warned at least one higher-up at Camp Lejeune in-person about the dangers the chemicals posed to base residents. But, he said, he was dismissed in less than five minutes. "That was disturbing to me that there was not a genuine concern that we need to do something about this today," Hargett said. The most contaminated wells stayed open for over two more years, according to the ATSDR. On April 13, 1984 seven months before the first of the wells were shut down Ann Johnson gave birth to a baby girl named Jacquetta, who had a cleft lip, a cleft palate and brain stem issues. Her right eye and right hand did not form properly, and she could not breathe or swallow on her own. She couldnt cry out loud, Johnson said. You could see her open her mouth, and you could see tears roll down her eye, but she couldnt make any noise. Seven weeks later, on the car ride home from the hospital, Jacquetta stopped breathing as her mother played with her curly hair. For 39 years, this has been at the back of my head, Johnson said. Did I do something wrong? Many people who were exposed went many years before they learned about the contamination. In 1997, Jerry Ensminger, a Marine veteran, had just prepared dinner when he looked up at the television and saw a news report about the poisoning for the first time. I dropped my plate of spaghetti on the living room floor, he said. Ensminger had spent the last dozen years wondering how Janey, his curious and tough 9-year-old daughter, who was conceived and born at Camp Lejeune, could have died from leukemia. Image: Jerry Ensminger holds a portrait of his daughter, Janey, who died of leukemia at age 9, in 2007. (Gerry Broome / AP file) It was like God opened the sky and said, Jerry, heres a glimmer of hope that youll get your answer, he said. In his first TV interview addressing the contamination since he left the Marine Corps, retired Maj. Gen. Eugene Gray Payne, who became responsible for Marine Corps installations in 2007, said leaders should have taken the warnings seriously, shut the wells down sooner and shown more compassion. There were personnel on base that were informed that there were contaminants, and they should have taken action, he said. Someone dropped the ball badly. In 2010, when Payne testified at a congressional hearing, he said he and the commandant had been briefed over and over that the water situation was better than it was. I think there may have been a reticence, Payne said. Fear that the backlash toward the negligence or potential negligence wouldve been tremendous. And I think there was a fear of saying it then. And I think that we made a mistake in not doing so. It is a very real danger with any large organization that somewhere in the bureaucracy, someone is covering up what is potentially an extremely dangerous situation, he added. The Marine Corps, which is part of the Navy, directed comment to the Navy, which said it remains committed to addressing all Camp Lejeune Justice Act claims and encouraged eligible people to file administrative claims. Image: President Joe Biden, after signing the PACT Act of 2022, gifts his pen to Brielle Robinson, the daughter of Sgt. 1st Class Heath Robinson, who died of cancer two years prior. (Evan Vucci / AP file) A complicated issue On Aug. 10, 2022, President Joe Biden signed the PACT Act, the most significant expansion of benefits and services for toxic exposed veterans in more than 30 years, according to the White House. A provision of the bill allows people exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune to file new lawsuits in the Eastern District of North Carolina if they have waited longer than six months for the Navy to resolve or respond to their initial claim. With less than a year left to file, the Navy has received more than 93,000 Camp Lejeune Justice Act claims but has settled none, an official said. At least 1,192 cases have been filed in the North Carolina federal court so far, according to the courts clerk, Peter Moore Jr. Image: Women marines, in non-combatant jobs, march into Camp LeJeune to take over for the Marines leaving to fight World War II in the 1940's. (Bettmann Archive via Getty Images) Earlier this month, the Justice Department and the Navy announced a voluntary streamlined process to resolve claims in which the Navy makes settlement offers from $100,000 to $550,000 based on specific diseases and the duration of time spent at Camp Lejeune. Miscarriage and female infertility cases are not eligible for the elective settlement. Van Arsdale believes it was a clever attempt by the agencies to pick off desperate victims who may be susceptible to immediate cash offers or who feel they do not have much time left to live to endure a dragged out legal battle. Many victims said they view the Camp Lejeune Justice Act as a path to justice, but the unprecedented road has been marred by obstacles, particularly for women who experienced birth issues. In an email dated May 9, which was shared with NBC News, an attorney with the Navy Judge Advocate Generals office, which handles Camp Lejeune claims, told Van Arsdales firm that she is specifically looking for cases related to cardiac defect, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, liver cancer, kidney disease, Parkinsons disease, multiple myeloma and lymphoma. Beyond that, they dont want to see records on any other case types, Van Arsdale said. They are not even looking at this miscarriage issue right now, because I think it is a complicated issue. Image: Jeri Kozobarich touches a map of the cemetery plots where her baby is buried at Jacksonville City Hall in North Carolina on July 18. (Rachel Jessen for NBC news) In a statement, a Navy spokesperson said the Navys Tort Claims Unit had previously studied representative cases to better gauge the breadth and scope of claims filed under the new law and to develop systems for processing them. The spokesperson declined to disclose the findings of that study but emphasized that the Navy is not giving priority to any cases over others and that it is committed to processing every claim as fairly and efficiently as possible. Yet for some men who suffer from one of the 15 illnesses and conditions related to Camp Lejeune that are covered by the Department of Veterans Affairs, progress has been slow. Even in those cases, we have to jump through a zillion hoops, Van Arsdale said, and theyre fighting us at every single turn. Image: Crystal Dickens in Jacksonville, N.C., on July 18. (Rachel Jessen for NBC News) Lifelong grief The victims can only wait as their health declines and they deal with decades worth of outrage and grief. At 65, Dickens now suffers from congestive heart failure and end-stage renal disease. Im not me anymore, she said. Neither is Johnson, 58, who still goes to therapy to deal with the grief and guilt she feels over the baby she lost as she struggles with feeling that women in her position are at the bottom of the totem pole. The things weve been through, the pain and the anguish, doesnt matter to anybody, she said. The women carry that for the rest of their lives. On a Tuesday evening in June, Kozobarich went back to "Baby Heaven" for the first time in 28 years. Her daughter does not have a name because the chaplain at the Naval hospital had convinced Kozobarich and her husband, Larry, not to name her, mistakenly believing it would make their loss less painful. Baby Girl is etched in her grave marker, next to rows and rows of babies who lived for only one day or none at all. Image: Kozobarich unfolded an essay she wrote about her daughter four years ago, on what would have been her 50th birthday. What would she have looked like? Whom did we lose? she read. Would she be brave and adventurous? Would she sail like her parents? We would have loved you so much, Kozobarich said, erupting in tears. "I will never stop mourning. Anna Schecter and Cynthia McFadden reported from Jacksonville, and Melissa Chan reported from New York. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Daniel Tenner, who lured a Coast woman to Terrytown with an advertisement to sell a smartphone, only to rob and kill her upon arrival, was sentenced Friday to life plus 139 years in prison by a judge who said, This is as bad as it gets. Tenner used a woman friends Facebook account to post the ad on the platforms marketplace. Morgan Tyrone, 24, of Pascagoula, Mississippi, drove in April 10, 2022, to buy the phone for $300, along with her partner and their 1-year-old child. In the 300 block of Friedrichs Road, Tyrone shot her in the head, took her $300 and left. A jury convicted him Aug. 15 of first-degree murder, armed robbery and obstruction of justice. Prosecutors did not seek the death penalty, so Judge Donald Chick Foret of the 24th Judicial District Court was left to sentence Teener to life in prison for the murder. He added the maximums 99 years for armed robbery and 40 years for obstruction of justice, and told Tenner he wished he could make it a longer sentence. This is as bad as it gets, Mr. Tenner, Foret said. Tyrones brother, mother and partner testified at the sentencing. Less than 10 days before Balmains spring/summer 2024 collection is scheduled to hit the runway for Paris Fashion Week, over 50 of the brands debut pieces were allegedly hijacked and stolen. On Saturday, 16 September, Olivier Rousteing, the Parisian fashion houses 12-year creative director, took to Instagram to announce the garment crime. The 37-year-old explained how hed arrived at the office by nine in the morning, anticipating the arrival of the last few designs for their upcoming show. However, he received a call from the driver meant to transport the pieces from an airport in Paris to the Balmain headquarters. The individual confessed that his vehicle had been overtaken, resulting in the theft of more than 50 looks. Our delivery was hijacked. The camion got stolen. Thank god, the driver is safe, Rousteing wrote. So many people worked so hard to make this collection happen. We are redoing everything but this is so so disrespectful. This is so unfair. We will work more, days and nights. Our suppliers will work days and nights as well, but this is so disrespectful, he continued. I wanted to share this with you to remind you, dont take anything for guaranteed and please be safe. This is the world we are living in. The details surrounding the incident, such as the airport location and hijacking time, were not released. Executives flocked to social media, discussing the unheard-of tragedy with their followers. Bernard Garby, luxury client manager at Harpers Bazaar, Elle, and Esquire, discussed the news on TikTok and described it as a real fashion drama. What happened is something Ive never heard ever before, the fashion expert, known to deliver industry recaps every morning, said. Bernard carefully described the unfortunate impact this incident leaves on the brand with a collection debut scheduled for 27 September. Its basically a pure robbery, the famed user proclaimed. I have never ever heard of anything like that before... They have less than 10 days... How stressful! Additionally, Bernard made a point to connect this alleged robbery with that of Kim Kardashian on 3 October 2016, when the reality TV star was tied to her hotel bathtub while five men stole her jewellery from the room. Speaking to David Letterman in 2020, Kardashian recounted the traumatising experience. He grabbed me and I was wearing a robe and I wasnt wearing anything under it, she recalled. He grabbed me and pulled me towards him but I wasnt wearing anything underneath. So I was like, OKay, this is the time Im going to get raped. Just deal, its gonna happen. This embedded content is not available in your region. Just prepare yourself. So I did... But then he tied me up with handcuffs and zip ties and duct tape, she noted. Bernard ridiculed Paris in his video, telling the city to fix your situation down there. He added: Its just not a good image. I am meant to be going to Paris for the Paris Fashion Week as well and I can tell you because of this news around Paris, Paris is really ruining its reputation. And its not looking good. I dont feel safe going to Paris anymore. So you need to fix it. In conversation with The Independent, Bernard urged spectators to review Balmains new collection with less judgement. Olivier has less than 10 days to recreate the collection that got stolen. Bear in mind, its Fashion Week season - where everyone in the industry is over-stretched and over-booked. If this happened in summer, maybe it would not be such a big deal, he said. However, since it happened during the Fashion Month and right before the collection - I think people should be compassionate if the collection doesnt deliver peoples expectations. He continued: Also, a standing ovation for Olivier still continuing the collection and proving that hes a go-getter and someone who doesnt take no as an answer. It proves hes a risk-taker and resilient - two qualities a designer needs if you want to survive in a competitive world of fashion. The Independent has contacted Balmain for a comment. The presidents of Baltic states have raised the issue of the Ukrainian grain exports and stressed the responsibility of the Kremlin at a meeting with Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General. Source: European Pravda; messages of presidents of Baltic states about the meeting. Estonian President Alar Karis noted that at the meeting with the UN Secretary-General, he focused on how to ensure the delivery of Ukrainian grain to countries threatened with famine without it. Focused on helping Ukrainian grain reach countries facing hunger at meeting with the @UN SG @antonioguterres together with @GitanasNauseda & @edgarsrinkevics. Russia started this war, this is why the world is in such a situation & people suffer. #CallRussiaToEndThisWar pic.twitter.com/25m5A4ogcP Alar Karis (@AlarKaris) September 18, 2023 "Russia started this war, this is why the world is in such a situation [and] people suffer," Alar Karis stressed. "The problems with food supplies started because of Russia's aggression, not EU sanctions," Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said. Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics also discussed the possibility of exporting Ukrainian grain through Baltic ports. Baltic presidents met with @UN Secretary General @antonioguterres, we discussed Russias accountability for the crime of aggression against Ukraine, Lukashenkas hybrid-warfare against Europe using migration as a weapon, Ukrainian grain export via Baltic, also Latvian ports pic.twitter.com/neOTY8wxAE Edgars Rinkevics (@edgarsrinkevics) September 18, 2023 Edgars Rinkevics added that they also talked about Russia's responsibility for the crime of aggression, about the hybrid war against the EU waged by the self-proclaimed President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, with the help of migrants from third countries. Earlier, the media unofficially found out about the alleged secret UN talks with the Kremlin on lifting sanctions to make Russia return to the grain agreement. The Ukrainian Foreign Minister noted that he was aware of "some forces that support Russia's concessions in this demand" and stressed that any concessions made would only provoke new blackmail from Moscow. 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! Coffee shops have always been excellent venues for talented baristas to display their skills and try innovative flavor combinations. However, regarding coffee and espresso trends, platforms like Instagram and TikTok have the power to launch viral drinks at lightning speed. But just because a coffee beverage looks great in photos and videos doesnt mean that baristas view it as an ideal order. When we chatted with a large group of expert baristas from all over the country, we found that they like to keep their orders as simple as possible when visiting new cafes. For instance, Ayat Elhag, coffee director of Yellow and Albi in Washington, D.C., said that a straightforward shot of espresso serves as a good marker of the more technical side of their operation and can instill confidence for more elaborate orders in the future. And Jason Hedges, beverage and coffee director of Laurent Tourondel Hospitality, said that his go-to pick is always a drip coffee because when [drip coffee is] done well (with the correct grind size and weight, water temperature, roast quality, bean selection, etc.) youll notice the difference immediately. But if you prefer milk-based espresso drinks and coffee pick-me-ups with creative ingredients and flavors, the pros understand how you feel and are happy to accommodate. That said, there are a handful of popular and on-trend beverages that baristas hesitate to recommend. A caramel macchiato is not what Starbucks thinks it is. The ubiquitous Starbucks chain has done a lot to redefine coffee culture in the United States over the last several decades, and their smash-hit signature beverages introduced many coffee drinkers to terminology they hadnt encountered before. Case in point: the caramel macchiato, which takes its name from an espresso drink native to Italy. Theres one problem the Starbucks caramel macchiato isnt a macchiato. Starbucks alum Stephen Power, who currently serves as the lead barista of Meanwhile Brewing Co. in Austin, Texas, remembers making thousands of caramel macchiatos during his time as a Starbucks barista, but he cautions any Starbucks devotees against ordering this drink at non-Starbucks venues because, in the Italian coffeemaking tradition, macchiato means marked, as in marking the top of an espresso shot with a splash of milk and foam. Starbucks has used the word to mean that the espresso marks the top of the milk [instead]. So, if a caramel macchiato isnt a macchiato, what is it? According to Romina Chavez, manager of Killebrew Coffee in Nashville, Tennessee, its an upside-down latte with vanilla syrup at the bottom and caramel drizzle on top. An upside-down latte and a macchiato are extremely different from each other but are so easily confused for one another, meaning that when a barista at an independent coffee shop gets a caramel macchiato order, they usually have to pry information out of the guest to confirm that what theyre getting is exactly what they ordered. Dont order a mocha right before a coffee shop closes. The combination of coffee and chocolate typically receives so much praise from chefs, bakers and other flavor experts because the flavor notes of each ingredient highlight those of the other. But that principle doesnt always prove true where the mocha, an espresso drink made with milk and chocolate syrup, is concerned. I personally dont understand the appeal of mocha. Many good coffee shops use a great base product [espresso], only to overpower the beautiful delicate flavors of the coffee with a cheap chocolate syrup, and stirring the chocolate into the espresso completely ruins the crema! explained Bartho Saayman, director of food and beverage at Carpenter Coffee Bar at the Carpenter Hotel in Austin, Texas. From a baristas perspective, mochas require numerous ingredients and preparation processes (like brewing espresso, steaming milk and adding chocolate), which can also be challenging to handle toward the end of a shift. Lets say that [a shop is] closing at 5 p.m. and someone comes in at 4:59 p.m. and orders a mocha, then that becomes a slight inconvenience because it requires using the espresso machine and multiple ingredients, followed by more cleanup, said Adam Keita, co-owner of Daughter in Brooklyn, New York. Holiday lattes are heavy on sugar and low on espresso flavor. Lattes, which include espresso, steamed milk and a top layer of frothed milk, can be found at countless coffee shops, and many baristas agree that theyre among the safest orders you can place at an unfamiliar cafe. A latte is simple and pretty easy to make. Its also a popular drink, so the odds are that any barista working in a coffee shop likely makes many of these on a daily basis, said Jessica Rapuano, barista at Willoughbys Coffee in Connecticut. Trendy, sugary coffee drinks aren't typically on most barista's list of favorites. Trendy, sugary coffee drinks aren't typically on most barista's list of favorites. James Benson, co-owner of Progress Coffee in Austin, agrees that lattes are a reliable bet at most coffee shops, and thats exactly why a discerning coffee drinker can judge a shop by them. You can tell if the espresso is too bitter or smoky most of the time, and you can also tell if they made a mistake steaming the milk. But while a standard-issue latte is a good benchmark of a cafes overall quality and an easy old faithful drink to keep in your back pocket, the rise of flavored and infused lattes isnt a favorite trend of many baristas. Fancy lattes will always be flashes in the pan because they are niche and more focused on visual appeal than flavor, said Reuben Villagomez, owner and head roaster of Paloma Coffee and Bakery in Brooklyn. Prime examples of flavored espresso drinks that dont necessarily make the most of their core ingredient are holiday and season-themed lattes (like Starbucks famous, or infamous, Pumpkin Spice Latte and Peppermint Mocha). Chuck Wylie, general manager of Jos Red River in Austin, told us that he never orders these drinks because the recipes are too sweet. I dont like to ask for less sweet or other modifications because the [original] recipe is how the drink is meant to taste. But I want to taste the coffee, not the sugar! Lavender lattes run the risk of tasting like perfume. Its easy to understand why lavender lattes gained popularity during the pandemic; people had a vested interest in wellness, and aromatic, herbaceous lavender gave off those desirable good for you vibes. But although lavender-infused lattes are still very present at U.S. coffee shops, Camille Pardoe, a barista at Crew Coffee and Cremerie at Lido House in Newport Beach, California, cautions against them because the floral flavor can be very strong and not as pleasant as it reads on paper. Because lavender has a powerful and distinct flavor, it can easily take over the drink and obscure the espresso. Also, most lavender lattes involve using lavender syrup, which introduces consistency issues, especially if the coffee shop/restaurant are making their syrups in-house, said Lauren Beene, general manager of Waltons Fancy and Staple in Austin. Beene has noticed problems with lavender lattes in the past, including too much lavender flower added in the simple syrup, or [the flowers] could be steeped too long in the process of making the syrup. Beene also points out that different cafes will likely source their lavender from different places, so you could end up with significant variations from one coffee shop to the next. Olive oil lattes can have unexpected consequences for your digestive system. Lattes, with an added dose of olive oil, made a strong showing in early 2023 due to the fact that prestige olive oil was already trending and to Starbucks January launch of their proprietary olive oil coffee. The richness and nuanced taste dimensions of olive oil seemed like a natural fit for coffee, but, as Kirstine Gjerding Grn, head of people and barista education developer of Ole and Steen in New York City, warns, those potent olive oil notes will dominate the whole drink. Unfortunately, the potential downsides to olive oil lattes dont stop with their unbalanced flavors. Because olive oil has laxative properties and caffeine can affect the GI tract, the mixture of the two might also kickstart your whole system in a way where you will need to stay close to a bathroom, Grn said. Shaken espresso gives you a watered-down beverage. Another barista-backed social media star (now on the Starbucks menu), shaken espresso refers to espresso thats shaken with ice and topped with milk. The idea is that the shaking motion and the ice will create a frostier and frothier spin on a latte. Shaking a cocktail (or, apparently, an espresso drink) will effectively drop its temperature and give it an airier texture. However, pouring hot shots of espresso over ice immediately starts the melting process, and since shaking will break the ice down farther, a shaken espresso would dilute the coffee, resulting in a pretty wimpy flavor, cautioned Jordan Deleon, barista at Manana Coffee in Austin. Dont order Vietnamese iced coffee unless the beans are grown in Vietnam. American java fans love iced coffee (year-round, in some cases), so when Vietnamese iced coffee made by brewing coffee into a cup with sweetened condensed milk and chilling it with ice started showing up on cafe menus, it wasnt surprising. But its important to know that unless the business is using coffee beans from Vietnam, I would not order this, insisted Sahra Nguyen, founder of Nguyen Coffee Supply. Vietnamese coffee growers tend to produce robusta beans, which have a more robust flavor than arabica and can hold their bold and structured taste even when paired with condensed milk. Also, Vietnamese iced coffee is traditionally brewed with a phin filter, a pour-over brewing system native to Vietnam that produces an assertive and multilayered flavor profile. Nguyen emphasizes that a coffee drink that borrows Vietnams name should maintain the integrity of Vietnams impressive coffee history by using natively-grown beans. Using beans grown elsewhere and marketing the drink as Vietnamese, cafe owners are appropriating cultural cachet for profit. Its important for companies to focus on authenticity and the unique qualities of different coffee beans rather than simply capitalizing on cultural trends without regard for the communities that created the culture. Want to brew your own stellar coffee at home? Below are some single-cup brewers that baristas love. HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change. Hario's V60 ceramic coffee pour-over cone Amazon Hario's V60 ceramic coffee pour-over cone Michelle Kawahara, Lavazza's West Coast training manager, ensures her perfect brew with a Hario V60 ceramic pour-over cone. This handy contraption was a popular suggestion from our experts, gaining endorsements from Jackson Konwinski, coffee buyer and supervisor of Zingerman's Deli in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Jiyoon Han, co-owner of New York City's Bean & Bean Coffee Roasters. Kawahara says this method is perfect for making 10-12 ounces of coffee, noting, "This technique really brings out the flavors of the coffee, making them more noticeable and enjoyable." But she recommends using Hario's specific pour-over paper filters, "[to] remove any extra bits like oils and sediments from the coffee, resulting in a smoother and less bitter taste, leaving your mouth feeling fresh." Konwinski also recommends using Hario's white paper filters and encourages using a kitchen scale to ensure precision for one cup. "Using an appropriately accurate digital scale, not just for the beans but also the water as I brewed, has been one of the largest improvements to my coffee craft," Konwinski said. Han uses this ceramic dripper every morning, saying, "The V60 produces stellar coffee, especially if you enjoy bright, fruit-forward coffees since this brewing method tends to highlight the top notes in coffee." She does note you may not get it right your first few times. "Proper V60 brewing technique does take a bit of practice to get right, and the brewing process itself requires full attention for 2-3 minutes which might not be possible some mornings," she said. $16.85 at Amazon A Clever coffee dripper with 100 filters Amazon A Clever coffee dripper with 100 filters If your heart is calling you to try a single cup pour-over, but you want something a little less finicky, Han recommends the Clever dripper. "It's a nearly foolproof way of making a fantastic cup of coffee without requiring a specific pouring technique or even the use of a gooseneck kettle," she said. "The Clever's design is a mix of immersion brewing and percolation brewing. The Clever dripper is essentially a French press that gets filtered, and it's just as easy to use! Definitely a favorite method." $38.95 at Amazon AeroPress portable coffee maker Amazon AeroPress portable coffee maker Another common favorite: the AeroPress. "Its simultaneously the most versatile brewing method out there while being very humble in appearance, design and pricing," said Andrea Grove, creator and roaster at Elementary Coffee Co. in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. "I use mine with a hand grinder thats designed to fit snuggly inside the pieces and make for easy travel. So I take it everywhere with me for a good cup of coffee on the road, in the woods, and at home!" Peter Leonard, owner of Little Amps Coffee Roasters in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, agreed, noting the ease and price point of this compact device. "As long as you can get ground coffee, which most specialty shops can do for you, and have a hot water source (even a microwave) you can use the provided scoop and get a great cup with our measuring anything! And theyre super affordable!" Cosette Manson, a coffee content creator who consistently goes viral recreating Starbucks drinks at home, also loves the AeroPress for its versatility and affordability. "You can make espresso, hot coffee and cold brew! I highly recommend it to both beginners and coffee experts. I love using my AeroPress to recreate Starbucks drinks at home, too!" Manson said. $39.99 at Amazon Cosori pour-over coffee maker with stainless steel filter Amazon Cosori pour-over coffee maker with stainless steel filter Megan Spring, manager of Tall Rabbit Cafe + Community in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a fan of the pour-over carafe for a soothing morning ritual making a single cup. "If I have the time, I prefer to use a pour-over to create my coffee at home," Spring said. "Currently, I am using the COSORI pour-over coffee maker I purchased from Amazon before we opened Tall Rabbit. I simply boil water in my kettle, put in the reusable filter, and start the pour-over process. I enjoy the process almost as much as I enjoy the quality of coffee." $29.99 at Amazon A Kalita Wave dripper Amazon A Kalita Wave dripper "I just dont think you can go wrong with the Kalita Wave," Maciej Kasperowicz, director of coffee at Trade Coffee, told HuffPost. "If youre looking to brew a tiny cup, like 8 ounces, the smaller Wave 155 is best, but if youre fine brewing a cup on the larger side, the more common 185 is terrific, versatile and really easy to make tasty coffee with. I prefer the metal one, because I dont have to worry about breaking it, and I like the little server that comes as a part of the set." Wave 155 Dripper: $28 at Amazon Complete set (pictured): $76 at Amazon Breville Bambino espresso machine Sur La Table Breville Bambino espresso machine It's no wonder Michael Breach, a renowned latte artist and founder of Baristart, leans toward espresso drinks, though he says at home, he's often making single cups of black coffee. "Even though I do latte art for a living, I pretty much only drink cold black coffee. I mainly just make iced Americanos using espresso shots from my Breville espresso machine and ice and water," Breach told HuffPost. While Breville espresso machines run the gambit in size, price and complexity, we like the Bambino model. It's a smaller, compact machine made for making one to two shots, but also has a frother. It won't take up your whole counter (and it's a lot cheaper than the bigger models). $289 at Amazon $299.95 at Sur La Table Related... A photo shows wipes removed from the stomach of a black bear euthanized Sept. 9 in Telluride. The wipes, along with other trash, caused a severe intestinal blockage that prevented the bear from digesting food. Colorado Parks and Wildlife authorities euthanized a sick male black bear earlier this month in Telluride after the animal was suffering from "severe intestinal blockage" caused by eating human trash. The 400-pound bear was showing signs of infection and could not digest food, CPW Area Wildlife Manager Rachel Sralla said a news release. Wildlife authorities founds items such as paper towels, disinfectant wipes and food wrappers in the bear. It all comes back to trash, which we talk about too often when it comes to bear conflicts in Colorado. The reason we had to put this bear down was to end its suffering that was caused by eating indigestible trash, Sralla added. CPW first received a report of a sick of injured bear near the river trail in Telluride on Sept. 9, the release says. Officers observed the bear and noticed it "acted feverish and had puffy eyes and discharge coming from its eyes and mouth." Officers also determined the bear likely had severe abdominal pain, as the bear "displayed a humped position while walking and was reluctant to move," according to the release. BEAR FORCES CAMPUS CLOSURE: 2nd bear in 3 months crashes University of Colorado campus, forces area closure The decision to euthanize the bear was based on the behavior and condition of the bear, as well as to prevent the bear from suffering any further, CPW said. Officers conducted a full filed necropsy on the bear. The removal of the stomach and intestines showed that the bear was starving due to a plug of paper towels, disinfectant wipes, napkins, parts of plastic sacks and wax paper food wrappers in the pylorus, said CPW District Wildlife Manager Mark Caddy in the release. This plug was accompanied by French fries, green beans, onions and peanuts. The small and large intestines were empty of matter. The intestines were enlarged due to bacteria in the beginning stages of decomposition, but we opened them up in several locations and found no digested food matter, Caddy added. Telluride has an ordinance to address bear in trash issues, Sralla said. We need the community to follow that ordinance to be a better neighbor to our bears and prevent this type of incident from happening again. According to Telluride Municipal Code 7.04.230 and 7.12.030, "any refuse container that contains refuse that is attractive to bears or other wildlife shall be secured with a locking mechanism except when refuse is being deposited." Failure to comply with the ordinance can result in a fine of $250 for the first offense and $500 for the second offense. A third offense will result in a summons to appear in municipal court, according to the news release. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bear euthanized in Telluride, Colorado after human waste blockage Marine officials are searching for an F-35B Lightning II fighter jet after a pilot from Beauforts Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) ejected from the aircraft during a mishap Sunday afternoon. The Beaufort pilot was taken to a local medical center and was in stable condition Sunday, Joint Base Charleston officials said. Joint Base and Beaufort authorities were focusing their search near Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion, about 50 miles north of the base in North Charleston. The jets location-specifying transponder was not working for some reason that we havent yet determined, Joint Base spokesperson Jeremy Huggins told The Washington Post. The mishap that forced the pilot to eject from the $135 million advanced aircraft was not immediately available, although the military regards a mishap to be any incident that results in death, injury illness or property damage. When an F-35 crashed on Little Barnwell island near MCAS Beaufort in September 2018 the first time the new fighter jet model had crashed the incident was classified as a Class A mishap, entailing at least $2 million in damage or the complete destruction of the plane. Sunday afternoons incident drew criticism from U.S. Republican Rep. Nancy Mace , who represents Beaufort County and the rest of South Carolinas 1st congressional district. How the hell do you lose an F-35? Mace asked in a social media post Sunday night. Now that I got that out of the way. How in the hell do you lose an F-35? How is there not a tracking device and were asking the public to what, find a jet and turn it in? Rep. Nancy Mace (@RepNancyMace) September 18, 2023 A spokesperson from MCAS Beaufort could not immediately be reached Monday afternoon for additional information. This story will be updated as more information becomes available. Kate Linthicum Kate Linthicum is a foreign correspondent based in Mexico City. Since joining the Los Angeles Times in 2008, she has covered immigration, local and national politics, and has reported from Asia, Africa and the Middle East. She was a Livingston Awards finalist in 2018, was part of the team that won the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for breaking news and has won two Overseas Press Club awards. She was born in Texas, raised in New Mexico and graduated from Barnard College. Benton County set a grisly record last year, and is on track to come near that record again. The Aug. 5 shooting of Daniel Bueno in Kennewick makes a total of nine people killed in Benton County during 2023, according to Benton County Coroner statistics. Thats just one fewer than the same time last year. They include four unsolved killings, another murder at a troubled Richland apartment complex and an officer involved shooting near the Columbia Center mall. While Benton County is on track to have another record year for homicides, Franklin County has continued to dodge that amount of violence. So far, there have been two homicides in 2023. There are few patterns in the killings. Four have happened in Kennewick, two in Richland and the other three in Benton County rural areas. Last year, Benton County had 19 homicides, which was well above the average of one to seven a year dating back to 2008. Then the number of homicides started climbing in 2021 with 10 people killed. The Benton County Coroners Office does not include vehicular homicides in its statistics. They are categorized as accidents. Other violent crime Homicides remain the one area where crime continues at the same pace that was seen in 2022. Tri-Cities police chiefs pointed to a drop across the board in nearly every other category of crime during a June Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce luncheon. For example, Kennewick has seen a 32% drop in violent crimes and a 26% decline in property crimes between January and May compared to the same time frame last year. This has brought the number of those crimes to the middle of the average. A lot of it has to do with the men and women of our agency as well as the support of our council and city manager, Kennewick Chief Chris Guerrero said during the luncheon. Im the first to say that its not something we do alone. ... Were very fortunate in the Tri-Cities that policing in Kennewick has everything to do with policing in Pasco has everything to do with policing in Richland, We all have to do this together. January 2023 Jarrod Yockey, 51, was shot in the head during a fight inside of a McMurray Avenue home on Jan. 26. Police discovered his body as two of the people he had come with ran into the street, bleeding from gunshot wounds, and alerted passing drivers. A Richland couple, Lara Garcia, 29, and Michael Reep, 29, were charged in connection with the shooting. Garcia faces two counts of first-degree assault, and Reep is accused of illegally possessing a firearm. But neither of them are accused of killing Yockey. The only person who saw Yockey get shot was the homeowners son, who told investigators he was getting beaten up when he saw Reep holding a pistol. He then heard a gunshot and saw Yockey die, according to court documents. Kennewick man identified as Richland shooting victim. Woman accused of opening fire March Ezquiliel Chico Martinez, 47, of Pasco, was discovered in an empty lot near a storage business at the corner of East 10th Avenue and East Yew Street about 6:30 p.m. on March 14. An autopsy found he was killed, but the Benton County Sheriffs Office has not shared how. The last place a witness saw him alive was around A Street and 18th Avenue in Pasco. Its unclear how long it was between then and when he died. No one has been arrested in connection with the death. Mans body discovered south of Kennewick. Sheriffs deputies says its a homicide May Edree DLove Thompson, 20, was shot in the Columbia Park Apartments on May 19. Court records state that Thompson had gone to the apartment complex to help a friend get her children. Thompson allegedly encountered a group of people outside of the apartment complex and an argument broke out. Antoine Surge, 43, allegedly came up behind Thompson with a gun. The gun was knocked out of Surges hand and went off. The older man then chased the Thompson. He was shot several times and taken to a local hospital where he died a short time later on May 20. Surge was arrested on May 30 in Ellensburg. He has been charged with second-degree murder and illegally possessing a firearm. He is being held in Benton County jail in lieu of $5 million bail. UPDATE | Convicted Seattle murderer arrested on $5M warrant for a Tri-Cities murder Terry Barnhart, 32, was run down by a car on the 2600 block of West Fourth Avenue on May 20 where he died. Police responded to calls about a bleeding man lying on the sidewalk about 4 a.m. Its believed the person who hit him did it intentionally, rather than just because they were being reckless, Benton County Coroner Bill Leach said. No one has been arrested in this case. Man dies after hit and run in Tri-Cities. The bicycle he may have been riding is missing June Jeffrey G. Reeder, 31, was shot and killed by Deputy Elias Perez following a chase through Richland and Kennewick on June 4. Reeder had allegedly been tied to a string of car thefts throughout the Tri-Cities. Police had caught up to the Audi he was driving and chased it before he crashed near the Bank of America outside of the Columbia Center Mall. Reeder was allegedly trying to take another car at gunpoint when Perez caught up with him and shot him, according to a Regional Special Investigations Unit report. The unit is continuing its investigation to determine if Perez broke any laws. More details released on man killed by deputy during Tri-Cities gunpoint carjacking Jesus Contreras Chacon, 20, of Yakima, died after someone opened fire into the middle of a party at a Benton City home. According to court documents, someone opened fire into a crowded garage on Willard Avenue during a party with teens and young adults. Six people, including Chacon, were hit. He died in a car heading to the hospital. There has not been any additional information released about the shooting. No one has been arrested. 20-year-old IDd as victim in garage party shooting near Tri-Cities July Therapist Jenna Olafson, 38, was killed at the El Rancho Reata home she shared with her mother and boyfriend, according to court documents. Investigators didnt say why her therapist boyfriend Michael T. Smith, 38, allegedly strangled the woman before leaving her body on the back patio of the home on the 88000 block of East Reata Road, according to court documents. Smith then allegedly tried to die by suicide. Olafsons body was discovered by family members who called 911. Benton County deputies were told they believed Smith was still in the home. Tri-City Regional SWAT team members along with deputies called for him to come outside. He eventually walked out of the home and was taken to a local hospital. He has been charged with second-degree murder in Benton County Superior Court. Tri-Cities mental health counselor refused to leave his jail cell to face murder charges Brayden Klatt, 25, was shot and killed inside of a Huntington Street home on July 23. Investigators believe his girlfriend, Shayla D. Shearer, 36, pointed a .380 Ruger pistol at his head before pulling the trigger twice in the bedroom. Shearer claimed the gun accidentally went off and shot him in the head. August Daniel Bueno, 36, was shot outside of a home on the 2600 block of West Sixth Avenue on Aug. 5. Neighbors reported hearing a gunshot about 9:45 p.m. near the intersection with South Conway Street. When they arrived, they discovered Bueno wounded. He was taken to an area hospital where he died. Jon Hetherington could not make it to the Renaissance World Tour on Thursday. Kevin Mazur/WireImage for Parkwood// Courtesy of Jon Hetherington A Beyonce fan couldn't make it to her Seattle show because his wheelchair couldn't fit on the plane. He posted about missing the concert, and the internet came to his side. Now, people are trying to get him to another show before her tour ends. Jon Hetherington has been waiting to see Beyonce for 25 years. So when an airline told Hetherington they couldn't fly him to Seattle on time to see Queen Bey for her Thursday show because they said his wheelchair was four inches too tall he was crushed. "The guy at the counter filled out this form and it basically said like 'your wheelchair exceeded the requirements to be able to fly and we did everything we could to address this and resolve the issue and we couldn't,'" Hetherington told Insider. The 34-year-old took to social media to share his story. "So after 25 years of waiting, I'm not seeing Beyonce tonight, so ableism strikes again," Hetherington said in a TikTok. He also posted about the situation on X and Instagram. This embedded content is not available in your region. Hetherington told Insider when he posted on TikTok he wasn't expecting more than "a couple hundred" people to see his content. Little did he know, his video would go viral and summon an army of Bey stans, all intent on getting him to another show. "It's really surreal and unexpected," Hetherington said. His comments on TikTok are filled with people trying to reach Beyonce and her team. People are also carrying on the campaign with messages of support on X. "This really is heartbreaking. Like I legit am so upset for him," one post on X with over 100,000 likes reads. "I hope this pops up in Beyonce's camp somehow and even the smallest gesture could make his day." Hetherington said he even got messages from fans offering to buy him tickets or give up their own tickets to future shows. However, as much as he appreciated the offers, he said he decided not to take them. As for what he will do next, Hetherington said he's exploring his options. However, he said seeing the Renaissance World Tour live would be a massive deal for him as someone who is Black and queer. "She made the conscious decision to collaborate with people and uplift, black queer culture, and that's a huge deal that cannot be understated. It's very important." 'This is a systemic issue' One of the main reasons Hetherington said he posted his video was to illustrate how ableism can produce day-to-day challenges beyond just one missed Beyonce concert. It's why he wanted to avoid naming the specific airline that could not accommodate his chair. "I'm sitting here as someone who has been disabled my entire life, saying it's not about the one airline," Hetherington told Insider. "This is a systemic issue." Hetherington told Insider that just two weeks ago, after attending a Janelle Monae concert also in Seattle he was stranded for hours because the taxi service that could accommodate his wheelchair stopped operating after midnight. Hetherington said he wasn't notified of these hours and was "stuck on the streets of Seattle" all night long. Then, at 8 a.m., his wheelchair died. After calling "every place under the sun," including the police, fire department, and manufacturer for his chair, he said no one helped him. Hetherington said a friend's father eventually helped him book a room it just so happened that his chair died across the street from a hotel as he waited for a new charger to be shipped overnight on Amazon. The charger worked, and he booked a new flight since he missed his initial flight back home to Oregon. Once he got to the airport, he said a new set of issues arose. His chair died again, and he had to find a way to charge it. He spent hours at the airport after airline staff rebooked his flight. After all that, he was finally able to get home. But because of his initial experience in Seattle, Hetherington told Insider that he "honestly considered not coming back for Beyonce." "I've always said unless you yourself are disabled or you directly know somebody that you are very close to, it's always out of sight, out of mind. We might as well be invisible until society wants us to be an inspiration, until there's like some feel-good story that able-bodied people can read and make themselves feel better. We never think about the day-to-day challenges. I don't get to have that luxury. I never have." With his videos now viral, he hoped people would continue the conversation about dismantling ableism beyond his own story. "While people's eyes are on me, I would hope that maybe, for at least for the time being, I would like some sort of recognition and awareness of these issues. But, you know, who knows?" Hetherington said. "That's not often how our society works, especially when it comes to disability." Read the original article on Insider President Biden welcomed the release of five Americans Monday from detention in Iran while calling on Tehran to give a full accounting of what happened to Bob Levinson, an American who disappeared during a CIA mission in 2007 and is presumed dead. Biden in a statement highlighted agony, uncertainty, and suffering endured by Siamak Namazi, Morad Tahbaz, Emad Sharghi, and two citizens who have asked to remain anonymous after they boarded a plane from Iran to Doha, Qatar, before making their way back to the U.S. Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home, Biden said in a statement. Biden thanked U.S. partners in Qatar, Oman, Switzerland and South Korea who helped make their release possible. As we celebrate the return of these Americans, we also remember those who did not return. I call on the Iranian regime to give a full account of what happened to Bob Levinson, Biden said. The Levinson family deserves answers. The president later on Monday held an emotional call with the families of the Americans released, according to the White House. The call came after the Americans had officially departed Iran for Qatar. The White House confirmed just after 2 p.m. that the returning Americans had departed Qatar for the Washington, D.C. area. The Biden administration announced Monday sanctions on Irans Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS) for holding and interrogating prisoners and for its history of human rights abuses. And, it will sanction former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad for constant promotion of lies about Bob Levinsons whereabouts that still persist to this day, an official said. The five Americans released Monday were freed as part of a deal to grant clemency to five Iranians and unfreeze $6 billion in Iranian oil funds. The White House has been adamant that the payment was not equivalent to a ransom, and officials have stressed that U.S. taxpayer dollars were not part of the agreement. Biden reiterated the administrations warning Monday against U.S. citizens traveling to Iran because of the risk of kidnapping and arbitrary arrest. All Americans should heed those words and have no expectation that their release can be secured if they do not, Biden said. The president vowed to continue efforts to free Americans he said are being unjustly held in Russia, Venezuela, Syria and elsewhere. We remain unflinching in our efforts to keep faith with them and their familiesand we will not stop working until we bring home every American held hostage or wrongfully detained, Biden said. Updated 2:19 p.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. President Biden on Monday announced the U.S. will provide $11 million to local and international organizations working in Libya as the country recovers from deadly floods that killed thousands. Biden in a statement said the State Department and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) will coordinate the delivery of aid to the appropriate organizations, joining the concerted efforts of nations and non-profits around the world providing critical support such as water, food, shelter, and medical assistance. Powerful storms hit Libya earlier this month, causing dams to burst and leading to catastrophic flooding in the city of Derna. The death toll has varied, but officials have estimated thousands were killed, and there are thousands more missing. The United Nations Support Mission in Libya this week raised concerns about a potential disease outbreak in the aftermath of the flooding, citing a lack of sanitation and clean water, according to The Associated Press. Biden in his Monday statement also cited the complex governing situation in Libya, which has been divided for the last several years by rival administrations backed by opposing militias in the wake of Moammar Gadhafi being overthrown in 2011. As the United States continues to stand with the Libyan people during this difficult hour we remain committed to supporting a political path toward a unified, freely and fairly elected government in Libya that can effectively respond to its peoples needs, Biden said in a statement. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Editor's note: This story has been updated with arraignment information. Now that President Joe Biden 's son Hunter has been indicted on three federal weapons charges, the next step is for the 53-year-old's arraignment which will be in person on Oct. 3 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christopher Burke. Burke, however, is not the judge who scrutinized lawyers two months ago about concerns she had over the plea deal they presented her. U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika caused heads to turn when she told Biden's defense lawyers and federal prosecutors on July 26 that she would not "rubber stamp" the agreement they had brokered, describing it as potentially "unconstitutional" and lacking "legal precedent." HUNTER BIDEN CASE: How the plea agreement fell apart in federal court, leading to not guilty plea This ended Biden's expected guilty plea that day to two federal tax misdemeanors, but it pushed Noreika into the spotlight. Google searches for Noreika shot up more than 5,000% around the world in the 24 hours after news of the plea derailment got out with the most interest expectedly coming from the United States followed by Denmark, Belgium, Canada and the United Kingdom, according to analysis of search queries on Google. In the states, Google searches in Washington, D.C., outdid queries in Delaware where the 57-year-old has been a judge since she was confirmed in 2018. MORE ON HUNTER BIDEN: How last-minute court filings could prompt sanctions against his legal team U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika Her reluctance to accept a plea agreement left some legal minds saying Noreika not only upheld the reputation of Delaware's federal bench but showed its independence. "I am very proud of the judge for upholding the rule of law and questioning what looks like a fix and favor for the politically powerful," civil rights attorney Thomas S. Neuberger told Delaware Online/The News Journal. While it might be understandable if he weren't a fan of hers after she dismissed a major lawsuit he filed on behalf of Wilmington firefighters killed and injured in an arson, Neuberger compared her courage with that of former Delaware Chancery Court Chancellor Collins Seitz when he ruled that Black students were receiving an inferior education and must be admitted to white schools. That ruling was subsequently appealed and heard by the U.S. Supreme Court as part of the Brown v. Board of Education case, which ended racial segregation in public schools. "There's all this pressure on her and instead she says, 'I can't be a party to that,'" Neuberger said of Noreika, adding, "She was up at the plate and she hit a home run. She did the right thing." Biden was set to plead guilty in July to two misdemeanor charges for not paying his taxes in 2017 and 2018, which he has since paid. He was also set to enter a pretrial program for a gun charge, which would have resulted in the charge being dropped if he complied with the program's requirements. Since the agreement's disintegration in July, Noreika has dismissed Biden's tax case. Federal prosecutors have indicated they plan to pursue tax charges against Biden in another district, perhaps Washington, D.C., or California where he lives. MORE ON HUNTER BIDEN: President's son indicted on federal gun charges for allegedly lying about drug addiction Who is Maryellen Noreika? Born in Pittsburgh in 1966, Noreika graduated from Lehigh University in 1988. She received her master's degree in biology from Columbia Graduate University School of Arts and Sciences in 1990 and her law degree in 1993 from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. After graduating magna cum laude from law school, Noreika went to work at Wilmington's Morris, Nichols, Arsht & Tunnell where she'd been a summer associate in 1992, according to answers she provided the U.S. Senate's Judiciary Committee. The Wilmington law firm did not respond to a message seeking comment about Noreika. In her first two years of civil trial experience, Noreika said her work was initially split between intellectual property and complex litigation in the federal courts and corporate litigation in state courts. After that, her practice was mostly done in federal courts where she focused on intellectual property. Noreika said she was involved in at least 30 cases that went to verdict or final decision she was chief counsel in nine of those. While most of her litigation was done in federal court, starting in 2002 Noreika served as a guardian ad litem for children in Delaware Family Court. A guardian ad litem is assigned by the court to represent the best interests of a child. MORE ON HUNTER BIDEN: President's son sues IRS for allegedly releasing his confidential tax information During that time, she was appointed to represent seven children ages ranging from 4 to 16 that involved different custody issues, including allegations of sexual and physical abuse, neglect and abandonment. The cases, which could last from two to three years, required not only legal work, but also a commitment to developing a relationship with the children to understand their desires and determine what is in their best interests. "While I estimate I have spent hundreds of hours on my guardian ad litem matters over the years, I have not attempted to keep records of all my time," she said in the U.S. Senate's Judiciary Committee questionnaire. "For example, the time spent included taking children out to lunch and to dinner and fun activities to get them to engage with me and trust me. I estimate that I have spent in excess of 50 hours a year on pro bono activities most years." While a registered Democrat from 2000 through the 2016 presidential election, Noreika's political contributions have leaned toward Republicans, according to the Federal Election Commission's website. Her donations to Democrats include Hillary Clinton's 2008 presidential bid and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee in 2009. Republicans she's given money to are Rick Santorum's 2006 Senate run, John McCain's 2008 presidential race and Mitt Romney's bid for president in 2012, and Noreika has repeatedly contributed to Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas. Noreika has had no party affiliation since the 2020 presidential election, according to the Delaware Department of Elections. In 2017, Sens. Tom Carper and Chris Coons put forward Noreika and Colm F. Connolly to replace judicial vacancies created by Judge Sue L. Robinson, now retired, and Judge Gregory M. Sleet, who took senior status. Then-President Donald Trump nominated Noreika and Connolly. "I'm pleased that the White House consulted with Senator Carper and me and accepted our recommendations for the U.S. District Court bench. I am also grateful for our Judicial Nominating Committees hard work in evaluating several excellent candidates," Sen. Coons said in a 2017 statement. "Colm Connolly and Maryellen Noreika are seasoned attorneys, with impressive trial skills, deep experience in federal practice, and profound respect for the law. I am confident that they will both be capable jurists, and I look forward to their confirmation hearings." The two were confirmed the following year. U.S. District Court Judge Maryellen Noreika (seated left, front row) with magistrates and judges of Delaware's District Court. From the bench Following the collapse of Biden's plea agreement, Noreika gave his defense team and federal prosecutors 30 days to submit briefs on why the plea deals form was appropriate and why the obligations given to her by the diversion agreement were appropriate within legal precedent. While this case seems to have gotten her the most attention, there have been other notable Delaware cases Noreika judged. In 2019 she put a high-stakes lawsuit challenging Delaware's unclaimed property laws on hold pending a state court ruling on the validity of an unprecedented subpoena at the heart of the case. Illinois-based chemical supplier Univar filed the lawsuit after state officials issued a subpoena demanding a host of internal company financial records as they sought to conduct an unclaimed property audit. Delaware's Chancery Court issued a ruling in 2020 enforcing the state's subpoena. MORE ON JUDGE MARYELLEN NOREIKA: Federal judge defers to state court on Delaware abandoned property fight In 2020, Noreika dismissed a federal lawsuit filed on behalf of Wilmington firefighters killed or injured in a 2016 Canby Park arson. In her 21-page opinion, Noreika ruled the federal civil lawsuit failed to "allege the necessary underlying constitutional violation" for the claims brought forth by the families of the three dead firefighters and the surviving firefighters. A U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals judge agreed with Noreika. Noreika dismissed a lawsuit in 2021 against New Castle County and its government and police leaders that claimed they wrongfully terminated and discriminated against a former county police officer. Noreika wrote in the dismissal that the lawsuit filed by Melissa Clemons failed to make its case against the county and the individuals, which included County Executive Matt Meyer, former Police Chief Col. Vaughn Bond, Chief Human Resources Officer Vanessa Phillips and former Lt. Col. Quinton Watson. Last year, Noreika issued an injunction barring Delaware from enforcing provisions of a new law outlawing the manufacture and possession of homemade "ghost guns," which can't be traced by law enforcement officials because they don't have serial numbers. The lawsuit, whose plaintiffs include the gun-rights advocates Firearms Policy Coalition, challenging the law is scheduled for trial in January. Noreika is presiding over a defamation lawsuit filed by John Paul Mac Issac, the Trolley Square computer repair shop owner who claimed Hunter Biden dropped off his computer at his Wilmington shop and never retrieved it. This led to the leak and publication of private photographs and correspondence belonging to the presidents son. Mac Isaac is claiming Hunter Biden, as well as CNN and The Daily Beast and California Democrat U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff, characterized him as a thief and a Russian agent causing him to close his business. She also presided over a lawsuit that claimed Delaware's provision of splitting positions on the state's highest courts between Republicans and Democrats was unconstitutional. James Adams, a former Democrat who is now an unaffiliated voter, claimed the provision violated his First and 14th Amendment rights by barring him from being considered for a judgeship on Superior Court, a position he's twice applied for and been rejected. Gov. John Carney filed a motion to dismiss Adams' case, but Noreika ruled in September that Adams had legal standing to challenge the major-party provision. Carney acknowledged in January the provision in Delaware's constitution regarding appointments to the state's three highest courts was unconstitutional and ended the legal battle. More: Federal judge bars enforcement of Delaware 'ghost gun' restrictions More: Wilmington computer repairman at center of Hunter Biden laptop story sues news outlets More: Carney agrees restriction on judgeships is unconstitutional Contact Esteban Parra at (302) 324-2299 or eparra@delawareonline.com. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Judge Maryellen Noreika remains on the Hunter Biden case. What to know House Democrats are reassessing their strategy for responding to investigations into President Biden that have officially become part of a broader impeachment inquiry, determined to accelerate their fact-checking of Republican claims and sever interest in Biden from the mounting problems faced by his son. Democratic lawmakers and aides say they must combat a GOP that is flooding the zone with false accusations about Biden, raising questions about the extent to which each claim should be refuted and determining the most pressing narratives to counter. At the same time, many want to disentangle the president from the investigation into Hunter Biden , whose business dealings are being dissected by the GOP and who now faces gun charges after a multiyear Justice Department probe. I think we need to articulate in general that theyve not laid a glove on Joe Biden, and then we need to refute specific innuendo, rumors and speculation, Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) told The Hill. We have to just educate the country that we have examined 12,000 pages of bank records, and 2,000 [page of suspicious activity reports], and weve talked to dozens of witnesses. And nobody links President Biden to any criminality. In the face of Hunter Bidens charges, some Democrats have been more vocal in suggesting that some of his behavior was unethical and even criminal, a move that comes as aides say the party must show no wrongdoing leads back to his father. Thats a huge part of the strategy is separating whatever Hunters issues are from President Biden and drawing that distinction, a senior Democratic aide with knowledge of the investigations told The Hill. Theres no reason to throw [Hunter] under the bus. Its more of, our job is not to defend him. Theres a very big difference between those two things. The sprawling investigation into the two Bidens covers everything from Hunter Bidens business ventures to unproven and refuted allegations that have circled for years in Republican rhetoric over whether Bidens public pressure to oust a Ukrainian prosecutor was related to his sons work. Republicans have yet to find the smoking gun to prove their most serious accusation that President Biden accepted a bribe in the course of seeking the prosecutors removal. And theyve also zeroed in on testimony from two IRS whistleblowers involved in investigating Hunter Bidens potential tax crimes who have complained the Justice Department probe was slow walked. Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) said Tuesday that the inquiry would allow investigators to continue their work, saying what theyve found should concern all Americans. Democrats and Republicans have volleyed memos back and forth, released lengthy transcripts and taken to the airwaves to promote and combat the claims, producing an extensive amount of information for opposing staffers and reporters to sift through. The senior Democratic aide said they will have to be more aggressive than they have been. Were just not going to let that stuff sit perhaps like we used to. I mean, once narratives take hold its really hard to undo them, the aide said. The problem is that some of it is so conspiracy theory-driven that its even hard to go after They are just flooding the zone with so much innuendo and garbage that were gonna have to find a way to systematically fact-check that stuff and make sure those narratives are not taking hold. Still, recent polling suggests Republicans have been effective in relaying their message. A CNN poll conducted before Hunter Bidens indictment found that 61 percent of respondents said they believe the president had some involvement in his sons business dealings while 42 percent said they believe he acted illegally. The White House in Wednesday memo to news outlets called on reporters to thoroughly vet GOP claims. Reporting that solely focuses on process rather than substance is woefully inadequate when it comes to something as historically grave as impeachment, Ian Sams, a special assistant to the president, wrote. Its time for the media to ramp up its scrutiny of House Republicans for opening an impeachment inquiry based on lies. When even House Republican members are admitting that there is simply no evidence that Joe Biden did anything wrong, much less impeachable, that should set off alarm bells for news organizations, he added, listing a string of GOP members who have expressed reservations about a lack of evidence gathered thus far. But another Democratic aide familiar with the investigations said the party will have to figure out a balancing act. Its challenging because what are we supposed to [do] every time they lie [then] counter with the facts? When theyre doing it so constantly? When theyre constantly bombarding with no attention to what is real? Thats a lot, the aide said. The aide added that could fatigue reporters. We have the facts and an argument to undercut every one of their arguments, but the press corps, each outlet, you all have your own capacity for the day, the aide continued. I think that a lot of Democrats feel like OK, so lets go after the most egregious and most foundational lies and misrepresentations and distortions Republicans are promoting, the aide said. Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) suggested that would be an easy lift. It makes it very easy to respond to. All we do is point out that this apparently is some deal that Kevin McCarthy has made to try to keep the right wingers from voting him out of the Speakership, he said. Thats no basis for an investigation thats supposed to have evidence of high crimes and misdemeanors. In the halls of Congress last week, many sought to distinguish between the budding impeachment inquiry into President Biden and the congressional and law enforcement investigations into his son. Hunter Biden is obviously a very disturbed person. Hes, you know, hes a drug addict; he may very well have committed crimes, but [when it comes to] the president, theyve shown no connection, House Judiciary Committee ranking member Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.) told The Hill. For all of [Rep.] James Comer [R-Ky.] and [Rep.] Jim Jordans [R-Ohio] bluster, when they talk about the evidence The evidence is going to be there but its not there. They never show it. We will show how ridiculous this is. Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.), who as a staffer worked on former President Trumps first impeachment, also said Republicans would be unable to connect President Biden to wrongdoing, mocking the GOPs fondness for saying they are investigating the Biden family. Every single time you hear a Republican say, the Biden family, just know thats because it does not include Joe Biden. If it did, they would say Joe Biden, he said. Impeachment of Joe Biden requires evidence linking Joe Biden to wrongdoing either by Hunter Biden or otherwise, and there is no evidence at all to support an impeachment inquiry based on what we know. The senior aide noted that much of Republicans fixation on Hunter Biden deals with the handling of his case by the Justice Department (DOJ), including whether the special counsel on the case had the authority to bring charges elsewhere an inquiry they said would maybe suggest wrongdoing by the DOJ at best. What on paper theyre trying to do is impeach Hunter Biden, the aide said. Were spending so much time talking about these things that actually dont have anything to do with President Biden. So I think thats the point in all of this is sort of reframing and refocusing the debate on, you know, the actual, actual situation here. McCarthys inquiry kickoff is just the first step, and its unclear if the leader will bring the matter to the full House floor for a vote ahead of any potential articles for impeachment that might be considered down the road. This thing is going to stretch out to the election, and that is not a bug of the system, that is a feature, and this is going to take a while, the senior aide said. This is the new normal from now probably through Election Day, unfortunately. This story was updated at 10:41 a.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. (Bloomberg) -- President Joe Biden derided the Houses impeachment probe against him, responding with sarcasm when asked about the inquiry launched by Speaker Kevin McCarthy last week. Most Read from Bloomberg Lots of luck, Biden said Sunday at the White House in response to a reporters question. McCarthy initiated the probe saying Republicans have uncovered serious and credible allegations into the president. The formal inquiry is expected to focus on seeking to implicate the president in his son Hunter Biden s overseas business affairs, though the full scope of the investigation isnt clear. Biden has denied GOP allegations, saying in August that he never talked business with his sons business associates. Last week, he scoffed at the move propelled by hard-line Republicans, saying that best I can tell, they want to impeach me because they want to shut down the government. Read more: McCarthy Launches Biden Impeachment Probe, Alleging Corruption McCarthy has toed the line trying to please far-right conservatives who have threatened to remove him as speaker if their demands arent met. The House ha passed only one of 12 bills that are typically used to fund the government, raising a serious possibility of a partial federal government shutdown after the fiscal ends on Sept. 30. --With assistance from Ashleigh Carrington Fields. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. U.S. President Joe Biden will "call for the UN Security Council to be expanded to counter Russia and China during the upcoming UN General Assembly," the Telegraph reported on Sept. 17. Biden will ask member states to reassess "the architecture of the Security Council," White House National Security spokesman John Kirby told The Telegraph, adding that Biden "would support more members." The five permanent members are China, Russia, the U.S., the U.K., and France, but Biden would support five or six new permanent members, according to Kirby. India, Brazil, Germany, Japan, and South Africa have "been mentioned as possible members," the Telegraph wrote. The UN Security Council currently consists of 15 members, 10 of which are non-permanent and elected for two-year terms. However, any reform to the Security Council "would require an amendment to the UN Charter," which could be vetoed by China and Russia, the Telegraph reported. President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to visit the UN General Assembly, which takes place from Sept. 18 to Sept. 26, as part of his second official trip to the U.S. since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. Zelensky is also expected to meet Biden and U.S. senators in Washington, D.C. on Sept. 21. Read also: Top UN court resumes hearings in Ukraine genocide case against Russia Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. If President Joe Biden is bothered by the impeachment inquiry ordered by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), hes not letting it show. The president was asked what he thought about the effort as he arrived back at the White House from a weekend in Delaware on Sunday. He smiled, then simply offered three words: Lots of luck! Reporter: What is you response to Republicans opening an impeachment inquiry into you? Biden: *smiles* Lots of luck pic.twitter.com/IO6q9sPuMb Acyn (@Acyn) September 17, 2023 McCarthy opened the inquiry last week, claiming GOP lawmakers have uncovered serious and credible allegations against Biden. But if that evidence exists, it hasnt been made public and even some Republican lawmakers are skeptical. Rep. Ken Buck (R-Colo.), a staunch conservative and member of the right-wing Freedom Caucus, said last week that impeachment proceedings should begin only when theres evidence of high crimes and misdemeanors. That doesnt exist right now, he said on MSNBC. The White House slammed McCarthy. He vowed to hold a vote to open impeachment, now he flip-flopped because he doesnt have support, White House spokesman Ian Sams said last week. This is extreme politics at its worst. Dr. Diego Mauricio Avella Patino, who speaks fluent Spanish, welcomes his Spanish-speaking patient Maria Cortina in the Spanish language clinic at the Canning Thoracic Institute in the Northwestern Medicine campus in Chicago, Sept. 8, 2023. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune) Growing up on the South Side of Chicago as the child of Mexican immigrants who primarily spoke Spanish, Dr. Daniel Meza was often asked to translate for his parents during medical appointments. Its a skill that I grew up with, having that technical language, Meza said. I just recall how stressful it was for my parents when they were in clinics, and as well as for myself, being a small child. Advertisement Now a pulmonologist with Northwestern Medicine, Meza says his concerns about equity in health care lingered. Two months ago, Meza became a part of the Northwestern Medicine Canning Thoracic Institute Hispanic Program. Patients of the program receive lung and thoracic care, including surgery and preventive screenings, entirely in Spanish. Advertisement Everyone at the CTI Hispanic Program, from front desk workers to operating room nurses, is fluent in Spanish. Patients can also access a dedicated Spanish-language phone line. Staff aim to improve health equity in Chicago by building trust with Hispanic patients and improving treatment outcomes in Hispanic communities, Meza said. Some 28.7% of Chicagoans, or about 750,000 people, identified as Hispanic as of the 2022 census. When I see patients come in with their children and they see I speak Spanish, theres kind of a relief on both sides, Meza said. The program launched two months ago. It is led by Dr. Diego Mauricio Avella Patino, a thoracic surgeon trained in Colombia, and by Meza, both native Spanish speakers. Avella performs surgeries related to esophageal disease, lung failure, various cancers, chest wall issues and breathing obstruction. Meza specializes in treating pulmonary problems such as asthma, respiratory failure and emphysema. Patients are often surrounded by medical staff in their most vulnerable moments, such as right before anesthesia. Those who can be treated in their primary language tend to forge better relationships with care providers and follow aftercare instructions better, Avella said. The need was overwhelming, said Avella, who worked at Northwestern Medicine for two years before the program launched. Advertisement Dr. Diego Mauricio Avella Patino is seen with medical staff at the Canning Thoracic Institute at the Northwestern Medicine campus in Chicago. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune) Patients may also feel more comfortable asking detailed questions with doctors who understand the cultural norms they experience daily, Avella said. Sometimes the barriers for the patients to be compliant with the recommendations are beyond the disease itself, they are social, Avella said. When you build that bridge with the patient, it can be extremely powerful. Avella said some of his patients have been treated suboptimally at other clinics in the past. He recently saw a lung cancer patient who suffered from extreme untreated nausea. Avella discovered that the patient had been diagnosed with diabetes, but rarely spoke of it. This patient was never going to get her diabetes appropriately controlled because she didnt have a doctor who was taking care of her, Avella said. The patient is now being treated by Northwestern Medicine endocrinologists. Patients in the CTI Hispanic Program are often referred to other Northwestern Medicine specialists, Avella said. Program staff work with these patients to schedule and prepare for future appointments in Spanish, Avella said. The clinic is also focused on preventive measures for respiratory issues. Proposing that patients quit smoking and get screened for lung cancer has been a priority for Meza. Advertisement There are a lot of great medications out there that we know help increase the chances of a patient quitting, Meza said. And in any population we have, thats not something theyre aware exists. While smoking rates in Chicago are on the decline, Meza said, hes had to convince at least one ex-smoker to schedule a lung cancer screening. Catching lung cancer at an early stage improves patient outcomes significantly, Meza said. The program has seen higher rates of asthma and respiratory issues among patients living in the Pilsen and Little Village neighborhoods, Meza said. He attributes this to nearby factory smoke and other forms of air pollution within the last decade. Raising patient awareness of ongoing clinical trials is also a goal, Meza said. The American Medical Association reported in 2022 that Hispanic patients with limited English proficiency are highly underrepresented in clinical trials, particularly for vaccines and cancer treatment. In 2019, 18.5% of the United States adult population, but only 3% of cancer clinical trial participants, identified as Hispanic. Meza and Avella both said that while working with new patients, theyre conscious of the wide diversity among Hispanic Chicagoans. Advertisement There are people from very different racial backgrounds, educational backgrounds, financial backgrounds and many different countries of origin, Avella said. What I can do right now is provide health care attention in Spanish and at least be a little more culturally aware of the differences among Hispanics. Support within Northwestern Medicine and among colleagues has made Chicago ideal for the program, Avella said. He hopes other cities with large Spanish-speaking populations will consider the clinic a model for similar programs. Meza also hopes to forge more connections with smaller health clinics in neighborhoods with high concentrations of primarily Spanish-speaking residents. Many Hispanic patients, particularly those of lower socioeconomic status, start their care journeys there, he said. As (the CTI Hispanic Program) grows, I do hope that we are kind of like a beacon in the city for pulmonary thoracic needs in the Hispanic community, Meza said. Chicago residents can schedule an appointment with the CTI Hispanic Program at 847-738-4863. President Biden is trailing former President Trump, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley and Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) in several hypothetical 2024 match-ups in a new survey from Harvard CAPS-Harris Poll shared with The Hill. The poll found that 44 percent of respondents said they would vote for Trump when asked about a hypothetical match-up between him and Biden in 2024, while 40 percent said they would back the current president. A separate 15 percent said they were unsure or didnt know. The polling is largely unchanged from a similar Harvard CAPS-Harris Poll conducted in July, which had Trump at 45 percent and Biden at 40 percent. The poll also found that 41 percent said they would back Haley, compared to 37 percent who said they would support Biden. When asked about a match between Biden and Scott, the president received 37 percent, while Scott received 39 percent. Still, both hypothetical match-ups featured larger shares of respondents saying they didnt know or were unsure who they would support; 21 percent in the Biden-Haley match-up and 25 percent in the Biden-Scott match-up. The poll, however, found that Biden performed better against former Vice President Mike Pence Biden received 42 percent while Pence received 36 percent; Gov. Ron DeSantis (R), who trailed Biden 42 percent to 38 percent; and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, who came in at 37 percent while Biden received 39 percent. At least 20 percent of those surveyed in each of those match-ups were unsure or didnt know who they would back. Still, the close match-ups between Biden and many of the GOP candidates suggest the 2024 election could be another nail-biter. No question that President Joe Biden is showing lagging national poll numbers and that now multiple GOP candidates are ahead of him. This is a new development as [non-Trump] potential opponents like Haley get exposure, said Mark Penn, the co-director of the Harvard CAPS/Harris Poll. The polling also comes as Trump remains the front-runner in the 2024 primary as DeSantis, Pence, Haley and others have struggled to close the gap between themselves and the former president. Meanwhile, Biden has grappled with a slew of negative polls that point to age as an issue for the president. A notable Washington Post columnist has called on Biden not to run again in 2024, though the president has made no indication that hell change plans. The Harvard CAPS-Harris Poll was conducted Sept. 12-14 with 2,103 registered voters. It is a collaboration of the Center for American Political Studies at Harvard University and the Harris Poll. The survey is an online sample drawn from the Harris Poll and weighted to reflect known demographics. As a representative online sample, it does not report a probability confidence interval. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Joe Biden knocked Donald Trump for his jobs record while in the White House, noting that only two presidents left the executive mansion with the US jobs market having fewer positions than when they began their presidency. At a community college in Maryland on Thursday, the president was speaking about his economic agenda, dubbed Bidenomics, when he made the dig at his predecessor. There are only two presidents in American history with fewer jobs the day they left office than when they started. One is President Hoover. The other is Donald Hoover Trump, Mr Biden said to laughter in the room. My predecessor promised to be the greatest jobs president in history. Well, it didnt really work out that way. He lost 2 million jobs over the course of his presidency. Fortune wrote in January 2021, the month Mr Trump left the White House following his 2020 election loss and the subsequent insurrection, that Mr Trump was set to become the first president after the Second World War to see employment decrease during their time in the job. The last time that happened was in 1933 when Herbert Hoover left the White House during the Great Depression. Biden: There are only two presidents in American history with fewer jobs the day they left office than when they started. One is President Hoover. The other is Donald Hoover Trump. pic.twitter.com/J76rzVxNP3 Acyn (@Acyn) September 14, 2023 A jobs report in January 2021 from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed that there were three million fewer jobs in the US than when Mr Trump took office in 2017. William Spriggs, a Howard University and AFL-CIO economist, told The Washington Post in January 2021 that Mr Trumps response to the pandemic contributed to the massive jobs loss that the virus brought. He argued that a wartime-style mobilisation could have kept people employed as cleaners or contact tracers. He didnt pump enough money to state and local governments, he told the paper. And we lost more jobs in state and local government than we did the whole of the Great Recession. On Labor Day, Mr Biden said in a speech in Pennsylvania: Guess what? The great real estate builder, the last guy, he didnt build a damn thing. Under my predecessor, Infrastructure Week became a punchline. On my watch, infrastructure has been a decade, and its a headline. Thursdays speech in Maryland wasnt the first time Mr Biden made the Herbert Hoover comparison. The guy who held this job before me was just one of two presidents in history ... who left office with fewer jobs in America than when he got elected to office, Mr Biden added, according to HuffPost. By the way, you know who the other one was? Herbert Hoover. Isnt that kind of coincidental? All I hear from my friends on the other side is what they say is wrong with America, the president said. They keep telling us Americas failing. Theyre wrong. Ive got news for them America has the strongest economy in the world right now, today. When NBC published excerpts last week of the Meet The Press interview with former President Donald Trump , one portion in particular piqued the interest of the Joe Biden campaigns rapid response operation. In the interview, Trump called Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis six-week abortion ban terrible and claimed to seek peace on the issue. Im going to come together with all groups, and were going to have something thats acceptable, he told MTP moderator Kristen Welker. For Biden world, this was a flashing red light. The former president who has called himself the most pro-life president in history and whose appointment of three conservative justices paved the way for Roe v. Wade to be overturned last summer was attempting, in their minds, to weasel himself into a more moderate position on an issue proven to be a vulnerability for the Republican Party. Aides and allies of the president quickly moved to try and shape the medias coverage of the comments. Mainly, they admonished stories that didnt in their estimation note that Trump was, in the words of spokesperson Ammar Mousa, the reason states across the country are able to ban abortion. The aggressive pushback underscored two major elements of the current political landscape: The general election has basically begun and Democrats continue to see abortion as the key to keeping the White House. It also conveyed a small bit of anxiety that Trumps attempt to frame his record on the issue might work. The media still has work to do to figure out how to cover him, Karen Finney, a Democratic strategist who worked on Hillary Clintons 2016 campaign, told West Wing Playbook. Its better than it was in 2016, but its still a problem and I think thats why you saw so many people jump out after [Trumps abortion comments] he was essentially getting away with it. After the full interview aired on Sunday, the campaign sent reporters a response from campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez citing Trumps own boasts about his ability to kill Roe. They also sent along a fact sheet and enlisted key surrogates, advocacy groups and elected officials to join a coordinated response, pushing back not just at Trump but at the press. Hello! Hoping to get your help calling out this extremely irresponsible coverage of Trumps abortion comments to Welker, said an email to those surrogates, which was obtained by West Wing Playbook. Trump is trying to hedge on abortion, and reporters are letting him off the hook. Its critically important we not let that happen and call it out. The campaigns army of allies responded with alacrity. This is dangerous we cant let Trump off the hook for his record, wrote Mini Timmaraju, the president of NARAL Pro-Choice America, in a post on X, the site formerly known as Twitter. Much of the pushback happened on social media, where a number of top surrogates blasted the media over its coverage of Trumps interview. Kate Bedingfield, the former White House communications director and now a CNN political analyst, called out a Washington Post story on Trumps abortion comments after a tweet by an editor that offered them without additional context. Headlining this piece Trump calls six-week abortion bans terrible with no other context is a prime example of how traditional coverage of Trump fails, Bedingfield wrote in a threaded post on X shared by other Biden allies, including former chief of staff Ron Klain. Jim Messina, an Obama strategist working closely with Bidens 2024 campaign, also echoed Bedingfields comments, blasting the medias both sides treatment of Trump and posting a clip of a 2016 interview where Trump suggested there should be some punishment for women who get abortions. Trump retracted his 2016 comments shortly after he made them. "The political press corps have a responsibility to stop treating Donald Trump as if his entire presidency wasnt defined by lies, misleading statements, and a Ph.D. in gaslighting the public," said TJ Ducklo, a senior Biden campaign communications adviser. "He appointed three justices who called Roe settled law then voted to overturn 50 years of precedent, which he gloats about constantly. Hes said hed sign a national abortion ban. Coverage of his extreme, clear, and manipulative posture on abortion must include this context." One element of pushback that the campaign did not do, however, was to have Biden himself engage. The president, who is in New York City this week for the U.N. gathering, was invited to appear on Meet the Press. But Welker said that the White House did not accept her invitation. Still, Finney argued that putting Biden out there more wont solve the fundamental issues at hand. It shouldnt have to be President Bidens job to fact check Trump in an interview. The media organization that does that interview and the people who cover it have a responsibility for accurate coverage, she said. Like this content? Consider signing up for POLITICOs West Wing Playbook newsletter. Comedian and political commentator Bill Maher announced Monday that he will not be resuming his show for the time being a reversal of his decision last week to restart Real Time with Bill Maher on HBO despite the ongoing writers strike. My decision to return to work was made when it seemed nothing was happening and there was no end in sight to this strike. Now that both sides have agreed to go back to the negotiating table Im going to delay the return of Real Time, for now, and hope they can finally get this done, Maher wrote on a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. Maher joins talk-show host Drew Barrymore, who on Sunday also reversed her decision to bring back her show during the strike. Both hosts faced sharp backlash for resuming their shows, with critics accusing them of not standing in solidarity with the Writers Guild of America (WGA). Mahers announcement comes a week after he revealed he was planning on restarting his show. Real Time is coming back, unfortunately, sans writers or writing, Maher wrote in a post on X last week. It has been five months, and it is time to bring people back to work. The writers have important issues that I sympathize with, and hope they are addressed to their satisfaction, but they are not the only people with issues, problems, and concerns. The strike began in May after failed contract negotiations between the WGA and the studio chiefs of the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers. Actors joined writers on the picket lines in July, leaving Hollywood at a standstill for months. Mahers reversal also comes as contract talks are set to resume this week, which could end the months-long strike if the two sides reach an agreement. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. (Reuters) -Germany's BioNTech announced on Monday a partnership with a global coalition for up to $90 million in funding to support the development of mpox vaccine candidates. BioNTech would initiate an early-to-mid stage trial for the vaccine program BNT166 to prevent mpox, a viral illness that causes skin rashes and could be transmitted to humans through physical contact. The vaccine candidates are based on the same messenger-RNA (mRNA) technology which has been used in its COVID shots developed with partner Pfizer. The trial aims to enroll 196 healthy patients with and without prior history of known or suspected smallpox vaccination. The partnership with the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) also aims to contribute to its mission to accelerate development of vaccines to be ready for regulatory authorization and manufacturing at scale within 100 days of recognition of pathogen with pandemic potential. CEPI is a global partnership between public, private, philanthropic and civil society organizations to develop vaccines against future epidemics. It usually takes 10-15 years to bring a vaccine to market. The partnership is part of BioNTech's strategy to develop vaccines for the prevention of high-medical-need infectious diseases, including those that disproportionally affect lower-income countries, the company said. (Reporting by Sriparna Roy in Bengaluru; Editing by Nivedita Bhattacharjee, Mrigank Dhaniwala and Shilpi Majumdar) A black male bear in Telluride, Colo., had to be humanely euthanized because it was starving and in distress from consuming human trash, including food wrappers, paper towels and other garbage that deprived it of nutrients and choked its intestines, officials said. The bear, which weighed about 400 pounds, was put down by Colorado Parks and Wildlife on Sept. 9 because it showed signs of infection and was suffering from a severe intestinal blockage caused by consumed human trash, according to a news release from CPW. A full necropsy of the bear showed its intestines were fully blocked by wipes, paper towels, food wrappers, onions, French fries and other garbage, CPW said. The bear could not digest food and was very sick, CPW Area Wildlife Manager Rachel Sralla said. Read more: Orphaned brother bears find a new home in San Diego while authorities investigate report of bear shooting CPW received a report of a sick or injured bear near the river trail in Telluride in the early afternoon Sept. 9, the agency said. CPW officers and the Telluride Marshals officers monitored the bear and kept it away from humans. A nearby resident also provided video footage of the bears behavior. The bear was acting feverish and had puffy eyes and discharge coming from its eyes and mouth, CPW said. It was in a humped position while walking and seemed unable to move, indicating severe abdominal pain, officers said. CPW said the bear was known in the town and to law enforcement, which on several occasions had to scare it away from public areas. But officers werent able to chase the bear off Sept. 9, and said the bear tried to intimidate officers. The agency said it made the decision to euthanize the bear that evening for human health and safety reasons as well as to prevent the bear from further suffering. Officers performed a necropsy on the bear the following morning and found trash clogging several organs, CPW said. The removal of the stomach and intestines showed that the bear was starving due to a plug of paper towels, disinfectant wipes, napkins, parts of plastic sacks and wax paper food wrappers in the pylorus, CPW District Wildlife Manager Mark Caddy said, referring to the opening from the stomach into the small intestine. This plug was accompanied by french fries, green beans, onions and peanuts." Read more: Black bears are also scaling Yosemite's Half Dome: What to do if you meet up Caddy said the bear's small and large intestines were inflamed from decomposing bacteria, and that they were empty of digested food matter. Officials with CPW have responded to 37 reported human-bear conflicts in Colorado's San Miguel County in 2023, the agency said. On X, the website formerly known as Twitter, commentators blamed tourists for the rubbish. But CPW said the message needs to also be aimed at local residents. This was a town bear getting residential trash and dumpsters, CPW wrote. So also encourage your neighbors and town businesses to secure their trash. Telluride has laws and fines addressing the issue of bears getting into trash, and CPW has asked the community for better compliance. We need the community to follow that ordinance to be a better neighbor to our bears and prevent this type of incident from happening again, Sralla said. 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. People look for survivors in Derna, Libya, Wednesday, Sept.13, 2023. Search teams are combing streets, wrecked buildings, and even the sea to look for bodies in Derna, where the collapse of two dams unleashed a massive flash flood that killed thousands of people. (AP Photo/Yousef Murad) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) ATHENS, Greece (AP) Greeces armed forces declared three days of national mourning after five members of a military rescue team were killed in a road accident in flood-hit Libya. The bodies of the five three military officials and two civilians were flown back to a military base near Athens early on Monday, together with 13 injured team members who were taken to military hospitals in the Greek capital. A bus transporting the Greek team crashed on Sunday en route to the city of Derna, which has suffered devastating flood damage. The bus hit an oncoming car, also killing three Libyan passengers, according to Libyan officials. We are all shocked by the deaths of rescuers who were participating in a humanitarian mission to show solidarity to the suffering Libyan people, Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou said. I am deeply saddened by their unexpected death. Heavy rains from Mediterranean storm Daniel caused massive flooding across eastern Libya a week ago. It overwhelmed the two dams, sending a wall of water through the coastal city of Derna, killing at least 11,000 people. More than 10,000 people are missing, and presumed dead. Entire neighborhoods have been destroyed as flood waters swept bridges, cars and people out to sea. Before crossing the Mediterranean, the storm caused extensive damage in central Greece, where many areas remain flooded. A trip down Floridas scenic Withlacoochee River turned grisly for two outdoors enthusiasts, when they encountered a heavily decomposed body, according to the Hernando County Sheriffs Office. The discovery was made around 1 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 17, near Dade City, about 40 miles northeast of Tampa, the sheriffs office said in a news release. Investigators say a man living along the river called to report the body. Deputies met with the caller ... who advised while in his back yard, he was flagged down by two individuals who were canoeing down the river. The individuals in the canoe told the caller they spotted a body in the river, the sheriffs office said. With the use of an airboat (Hernando County Fire Rescue), the individual was removed from the water and transported to the shore. ... The body had been in the water for some time, as it was in the advanced stages of decomposition. The identity of the body, an adult male, remains a mystery, but the individual does have various and distinct scars, marks, and/or tattoos. An autopsy was scheduled for Sept. 18 to determine a cause of death, officials said. Investigators say the two canoeists who found the body left the area shortly after reporting it to the homeowner. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission assisted the sheriffs office in an attempt to find them but it was unsuccessful, officials said. The HCSO Marine Unit also responded to the area with an airboat to conduct a search of the riverbank for any evidence related to the death, officials said. Detectives have been in contact with both the Pasco Sheriffs Office and the Sumter County Sheriffs Office, as the area in question is just a few feet from the Pasco County line. 78-year-old shoots and kills neighbor in dispute over tree trimming, Florida cops say Dad uses heavy duty electric saw to kill his 16-year-old son, Florida cops say Boy was in room as mom had drug-fueled sex with 2 men and one died, Florida cops say Rep. Lauren Boebert 's Democratic challenger thinks her "Beetlejuice" incident was embarrassing. "It's just another notch in the belt of embarrassment," challenger Adam Frisch said on MSNBC. Boebert and her date were kicked out of a "Beetlejuice" performance in Denver last week. The ejection of Rep. Lauren Boebert from a Denver theater performance of the "Beetlejuice" musical was beyond embarrassing, and voters have had enough, the firebrand conservative's Democratic challenger Adam Frisch said. "It's just another notch in the belt of embarrassment, and it's horrible to even get into that kind of conversation," Frisch told MSNBC's Symone Sanders-Townsend in a Sunday interview regarding the Colorado Republican's now-viral drama last week at the Temple Hoyne Buell Theatre. Representatives for Boebert did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment about Frisch's remarks. Boebert and her date were booted from the Sept. 10 "Beetlejuice" performance after the she was accused of disruptive behavior, which included vaping and loud singing. The congresswoman's campaign manager initially denied reports that Boebert had been vaping during the performance, but surveillance footage showed Boebert vaping in her seat. Newly surfaced surveillance footage also appeared to show Boebert being fondled by her date before the two were kicked out. "She even lied about her lie," Frisch told Sanders-Townsend on Sunday. "So for the end of the day, the voters are sick and tired of this embarrassment, whether it's an audience member watching a theater performance, but what's even worse is her embarrassment in the halls of Congress and those committee meetings when she's not focused on the job." "She's very, very focused on herself," he added. Boebert, now in her second term in office, has publicly apologized for her "unacceptable" theater behavior, writing in a Facebook post last week that she "simply fell short of my values." However, in a Sunday interview on One America News Network, Boebert said she had a "fantastic" time at the venue. "I was a little too eccentric. I'm very known for having an animated personality, maybe overtly animated personality. I was laughing, I was singing, having a fantastic time," Boebert told the outlet. "Was told to kinda settle it down a little bit, which I did, but then my next flip up was taking a picture." As Colorado's 3rd Congressional district has a Republican lean, the 2022 election results were a surprise to most observers. Frisch, a former Aspen city councilman, lost to Boebert last November by only 546 votes out of about 327,000 ballots cast after an automatic recount in what was the closest congressional race in the entire country during that cycle. Boebert is now locked in a competitive race with Frisch, and the "Beetlejuice" incident has the potential to shift some votes, which would make a huge difference in a contest that could determine which party controls the House in 2025. Frisch launched his 2024 campaign earlier this year, and on Sunday he created a short thread on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, where he criticized Boebert's behavior and linked to a fundraising page. "I'm the better choice for who should be negotiating on behalf of #CO03's ranchers, farmers, & small business owners," Frisch wrote. "People are sick of Boebert's embarrassing antics." "If you want to help us rid Congress of the embarrassment that is Lauren Boebert, chip in today to help me keep the pressure on!," he added. Read the original article on Business Insider A Cicero man was charged Sunday for allegedly striking a police officer in Little Village overnight early Saturday with a heavy, wooden flagpole. Prosecutors charged Arturo Rodriguez, 46, with a felony count of aggravated battery of a peace officer. They alleged he hit a police officer lying on the ground in the back of the head with the wooden flagpole as officers tried to pursue and arrest two teens, court records show. Advertisement An unknown attacker struck another officer in the head with a wooden pole, severely cutting the officers ear, according to a police report obtained by the Tribune. Officers had been blocking traffic at the corner of West 26th Street and South Homan Avenue before the attack occurred around 1 a.m., according to the report. Advertisement Flag-bearing cars had filled streets throughout the neighborhood as people celebrated Mexican Independence Day and attended the Riot Fest music festival at nearby Douglass Park earlier. The attack occurred after a 16-year-old had been shooting a gel pellet Orbeez toy gun at passing cars, the police report said. The teen also fired the toys light, squishy, water-absorbing gel balls at a squad car, it continued. Officers asked the teen to stop, and he began to fire the gel balls at two Illinois state police officers causing pain, the report said. Police again demanded he stop. The teen fled as police tried to arrest him, the report continued. Police pursued and caught the teen. As officers tried to place him into custody, a 15-year-old began to also fire gel pellets at their faces. The 15-year-old also fled, and as officers chased him, an unknown attacker struck an officer on the right side of his head with a heavy wooden flagpole, the report said. The pole attack caused a deep cut to the officers right ear, which began to bleed profusely, the report said. As another officer lay on the ground defenseless, Rodriguez allegedly struck the officer with a wooden flagpole in the back of the head and neck, the report said. The attack caused the officer bruising and swelling, the report continued. Police arrested Rodriguez at the scene. Judge Maryam Ahmad set Rodriguezs bail at $65,000 Sunday, meaning he has to post $6,500 to be released on electronic monitoring, court records show. Advertisement Rodriguez pleaded guilty to an attempted murder in 1994 and was sentenced to 10 years in prison, court records show. He also pleaded guilty in February 2020 to a domestic violence charge accusing him of putting his hands on a teen daughters neck, causing red marks. He completed a probation term in January 2021, court records show. His next court appearance is scheduled for Friday. Amid the attacks and arrests, an unknown person threw a glass bottle that struck a state police officer in the head as more police responded to the attacks, the report said. The officers who were struck by the flagpoles transported themselves to Mt. Sinai Hospital, where one of them received 30 stitches to repair his right ear and reconnect it, the report continued. The 16-year-old arrested at the scene was placed into the custody of child services, the report said. He had caused an officer to fall to the ground while attempting to pull away while handcuffed, according to the report. A boy in South Carolina didnt just stop at playing cops and robbers, he outfitted a Dodge Charger with emergency lights and actually pulled people over while claiming he was a real officer, according to authorities in South Carolina. Thats according to the Cleveland County Sheriffs Office on Monday. Deputies reported getting a call on Saturday about someone wearing black tactical gear and conducting traffic stops on Highway 161 just over the border in South Carolina. SEE MORE: Security guard at south Charlotte bar posed as CMPD officer for years, owner says Later, the York County Sheriffs Office asked for help with a traffic stop near the North Carolina state line. The driver had red and blue light bars mounted inside his car, and they were still activated when he was pulled over by York County deputies. The sheriffs office says the boy claimed he was with the Clover Police Department or the South Carolina Highway Patrol. According to the CCSO, the boy was identified as a juvenile, so his name wont be released. He was taken into custody. CAUGHT >> Police charge tow truck worker with impersonating law enforcement If you are pulled over and you suspect that the person conducting the traffic stop isnt an officer, you can call the police department and verify the traffic stop. (WATCH: Couple accused of hiding drugs in fake pregnant belly, deputies say) Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) on Monday became the latest Republican senator to endorse former President Trump for president, bringing Trumps tally of senatorial endorsements to 11, far more than any other candidate. Donald Trump is a businessman and outsider, Braun, who is running for governor in Indiana, told Fox News Digital. Together, we took on the Washington swamp with a historic victory in the 2018 Indiana Senate race. Braun went on to praise Trump as the candidate capable of returning us to the America First policies that delivered unmatched prosperity and security for the American people. I give Donald Trump my endorsement for President of the United States, he said. Republican Sens. Marsha Blackburn (Tenn.), Ted Budd (N.C.), Steve Daines (Mont.), Lindsey Graham (S.C.), Bill Hagerty (Tenn.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (Miss.), Markwayne Mullin (Okla.), Eric Schmitt (Mo.), Tommy Tuberville (Ala.) and JD Vance (Ohio) have also endorsed Trump. Braun said earlier this year that he supported Trumps policies but held back from endorsing him. He told The Hill in June hes endorsing the policies of Trump but clarified Ive not endorsed anyone officially. Braun praised Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy last month during an interview on CNBCs Squawk Box. He touted Ramaswamy as a compelling candidate when asked a hypothetical question about whom he would like to see win the GOP nomination if Trump, who is crushing the rest of the GOP field in national and state polls, fell short of winning the nomination. I think clearly the guy that is different that espouses a lot of what Trump did would be Vivek Ramaswamy because youre going to have to have somebody that has a business background, is entrepreneurial. Thats the only chance we turn the biggest business around in the world and get it to where were not borrowing from our kids and grandkids, Braun told CNBC anchor Joe Kernen. I think thats why hes resonating, Braun said of Ramaswamy. Brauns formal endorsement of Trump, however, reflects a growing consensus among Republican senators and political strategists that Trump is not going to lose the presidential nomination to one of his GOP rivals. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva will meet with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy in New York on Wednesday, 20 September. Source: The Guardian, citing two sources in the Brazilian government Details: Lula is known for his refusal to take an unambiguous side in Russia's war against Ukraine. Lula tried to position himself as a potential peacemaker between Moscow and Kyiv, arguing that in order to achieve peace, some countries must stay "neutral". Background: Sources of Bloomberg reported that Zelenskyy may come to New York in September to participate in the activities of the high-level week of the UN General Assembly. His participation in the UN Security Council meeting was also discussed. Later it became known that Volodymyr Zelenskyy would meet with US President Joe Biden at the White House next Thursday, 21 September. Reportedly, Ukraines president will also visit the US Congress. According to the preliminary schedule of the speeches of the heads of delegations, Zelenskyy's speech at the UN General Assembly is expected on the morning of 19 September, and on 20 September, Zelenskyy will take part in the open debate of the UN Security Council regarding 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! TechCrunch Apple has warned over a half dozen Indian lawmakers from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's main opposition of their iPhones being targets of state-sponsored attacks, these people said Tuesday, in a serious digital espionage charge just months ahead of next year's general elections. Rahul Gandhi, Indian opposition leader, said in a media briefing Tuesday that his team had received the said alert from Apple. Shashi Tharoor, a key figure from the Congress party; Akhilesh Yadav, the head of the Samajwadi Party; Mahua Moitra, a national representative from the All India Trinamool Congress; and Priyanka Chaturvedi of Shiv Sena, a party with notable influence in Maharashtra reported that they too had been notified by Apple regarding a potential security attack on their iPhones. A bridesmaid who 'didn't love' the gold sequinned dress she wore for a friend's wedding says she has spent the past 35 years rewearing it around the world Rebecca Whitlinger has made a name for herself by rewearing a bridesmaid dress from 1988. Whitlinger told Insider she initially wasn't a fan of the gold sequinned gown. She has since worn it to tourist attractions across the world. Rebecca Whitlinger has become known for her sparkly gold bridesmaid dress 35 years after she first wore it to a friend's wedding. Whitlinger told Insider she has spent more than three decades wearing the dress at tourist attractions across the world, including in her home city, Pittsburgh. Over the years, she has worn the dress while on vacation in locations such as Peru, Italy, and Iceland. The experiences led her to publish the 1999 book, "Always a Bridesmaid: 89 Ways to Recycle That Bridesmaid Dress," which she said is now out of print. Whitlinger, who is an associate director at the non-profit organization Cancer Bridges, regularly shares photos of the dress on her Instagram account and has also shared them with media outlets including People. Rebecca Whitlinger wears the dress during a trip to Morocco in 2013. Rebecca Whitlinger But despite Whitlinger's dedication to the garment, she said she initially "didn't love" the dress when she wore it to a wedding in 1988. "I don't think anybody loved the dress really, but we were excited to be at the wedding, and that's the more important part," Whitlinger said, referencing the other bridesmaids who wore the same dress. The bride had all of the gowns custom-made with gold sequins and floor-length skirts, Whitlinger said. Rebecca Whitlinger wore the dress to a Banksy exhibition in Pittsburgh earlier this year. Rebecca Whitlinger "So I wore it, and the bride, wanting to be very kind to her bridesmaids said, 'Oh you can wear it again,'" she said. Whitlinger said that the conversation sparked an idea she would start packing the dress "everywhere" she went just in case there was a photo opportunity. "And while you could say it's a hobby, it only takes one minute to throw the dress on. I could do it now if you needed to see it," Whitlinger said. "It doesn't occupy a ton of time. I take the picture and move on, usually into a better outfit because I do care about what I wear." But despite her initial dislike, Whitlinger said she has now grown to love the gown. Turning her focus to the bridesmaids of today, Whitlinger said it wouldn't be difficult for any person who wants to follow in her footsteps and rewear their dress. You could even start with the supermarket. "I'd rather wear a formal gown to go grocery shopping than a tracksuit," she said. Whitlinger added that she wore the dress for multiple passport and driving license photos through the years. Read the original article on Insider The family of a British man being flown out of Iran on Monday in a $6bn (4.8bn) prisoner swap have spoken of their joy at his release after more than five years in captivity. Wildlife conservationist Morad Tahbaz, 66, who also holds Iranian citizenship, was arrested during a crackdown on environmental activists in January 2018. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison on vague charges of spying for the US and undermining Irans security. Mr Tahbaz, who has cancer, was released on furlough in March last year but was then taken back into custody at the notorious Evin prison in Tehran on the same day as charity worker Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe was released back to the UK. Mr Tahbaz (right, wearing mask) is welcomed on the tarmac at Doha airport after his release from Iran (AFP via Getty Images) His family posted an emotional statement to X, formerly known as Twitter, about his surreal release, saying: We are overjoyed and relieved to finally have Morad and [his wife] Vida free and on their way back home after six years. We are grateful to President Biden and his administration for making the difficult but necessary decision to prioritise the lives of American citizens over politics. Thank you for leading with courage and compassion. They added: At this time, we are focused on the reunion of our family, the physical and mental health of Morad and Vida, and the path to recovery of these lost years. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was extremely pleased that Mr Tahbazs terrible ordeal was over. The prime ministers official spokesman said: By seeking to use foreign nationals as bargaining chips, the regimes leaders are fatally undermining Irans credibility on the world stage. They must stop using foreign nationals for political bargaining. In terms of the UKs involvement, we werent a part of the negotiations between the US and Iran. Mr Tahbaz was allowed medical care on another temporary furlough with his family in Tehran last July on the condition that he wore an ankle bracelet. But his release finally came on Monday after a Doha-brokered deal between the United States and Iran unfroze $6bn of Tehrans funds. Mr Tahbaz, wearing a blue shirt, steps down onto the tarmac at Doha airport after his release from Iran (AFP via Getty Images) Ms Zaghari-Ratcliffes husband said it was very hard to see Mr Tahbaz left behind in 2022 and that his family would be feeling a mixture of trepidation and real hope and fear before his plane took off. Richard Ratcliffe told BBC Radio 4s World At One programme: When you go through that experience, you certainly believe anything bad could happen at the last minute. Sacha Deshmukh, Amnesty International UKs chief executive, slammed the government for failing to get his release alongside Ms Zaghari-Ratcliffe. He said: This is a huge relief after whats been a terrible ordeal for Morad, who should never have been jailed in the first place. Were delighted for Morad and his family whove campaigned tirelessly for his release, often battling with UK officials whove never treated Morads plight with anywhere near the urgency and seriousness it merited. When Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and Anoosheh Ashoori were released last year, Morad was grievously let down by the UK government, including with hollow promises from Liz Truss when she was Foreign Secretary. In all these years, we hoped the UK would have significantly raised its game when it was confronted by the arbitrary detention of UK nationals overseas yet almost nothing seems to have been learnt. Roxanne Tahbaz holds a picture of her father, Morad, while he was in jail in Iran (PA Archive) Mehran Raoof, a British-Iranian national and a labour rights activist, is still being detained in Tehrans Evin prison after Revolutionary Guards agents arrested him in October 2020. Mr Deshmukh added: UK officials are still keeping families at arms length with stock answers and uninformative meetings, being too passive when they should be demanding consular visits and the ability to attend trial hearings, and theyre not working collaboratively with partner countries anywhere near as much as they should. The government needs to drastically upgrade its procedures to prevent more unnecessary heartbreak and suffering in cases like Morads, and it now needs to urgently seek the release of Mehran Raoof, whos been arbitrarily jailed in Iran for nearly three years, and Alaa Abd el-Fattah, whos similarly been arbitrarily imprisoned in Egypt for almost four years. Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe was held in the same prison as Mr Tahbaz (Getty) The Foreign Office has been approached for comment. According to reports, Mr Tahbaz had been using camera traps to monitor endangered species, including the Persian leopard and Asiatic cheetah when he was arrested. Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed he and fellow environmentalists were committing espionage by photographing Iranian military installations. Iranian Foreign Ministry, spokesman Nasser Kanaani, said: Fortunately Irans frozen assets in South Korea were released and. God willing, today the assets will start to be fully controlled by the government and the nation. On the subject of the prisoner swap, it will happen today and five prisoners, citizens of the Islamic Republic, will be released from the prisons in the US. Five imprisoned citizens who were in Iran will be given to the US side. He said two of the Iranian prisoners will stay in the US. The transfer of Irans funds under the agreement has drawn criticism from US Republicans who say President Biden is in effect paying a ransom for US citizens. British politicians are calling on police to investigate allegations of sexual assault against actor and comedian Russell Brand that media reported this past weekend following a years-long investigation. Several leading politicians in Britain are responding to these allegations, which were made by four women in a Channel 4 television documentary, as well as The Times and the Sunday Times newspapers. None of the alleged victims was named. Brand has responded to the allegations and vehemently rejected the claims, saying all of his relationships were always consensual. Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks spokesperson, Max Blain, on Monday called the allegations very serious and concerning. He said those making allegations should be treated seriously and treated with sensitivity. Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said Sunday that Brand has questions to answer following the allegations. We have to be particularly careful when we listen to the voices of the people who are relatively powerless. Because we, I think, collectively have missed opportunities to do the right thing and intervene much, much earlier, Cleverly told the BBC. Caroline Nokes, a conservative legislator who chairs the House of Commons Women and Equalities Committee, called the allegations incredibly shocking and criminal and called on law enforcement to investigate, both in the U.K. and in the United States. This merits and needs a criminal investigation because for too long we have seen men and the perpetrators of these sorts of crimes are almost invariably men not being held to account for their behaviors and their actions, she told BBC radio. Unfortunately, it seems that celebrity, for whatever reason, can act as a shield for individuals who choose to conduct themselves in a way which to be quite frank, if that were to happen in any business organization youd like to think that theyd be out the door, Nokes continued. Laura Trott, the pensions minister, also said she hoped the women who spoke to the news outlets would speak to officers and said in an interview, The Guardian reported, I think everybody needs to do better. I think no woman reading the allegations that were all over the place this weekend could do anything other than shudder. Its horrific. And I pay absolute tribute to the women whove come forward and also the journalists that have pursued this, the editors whove allowed them to do that, the investment thats been put in place and the huge legal risk thats taken for stories such as these, Trott added. We all need to do better. And I would just plead any woman whos had experiences like this to come forward and to report them to the police. One of Brands accusers says he raped her in Los Angeles in 2012, according to the Sunday Times, The Times of London and Channel 4. The actor and comedian has been accused of sexual assault by three other women, one of whom says she was sexually assaulted by Brand during a relationship with him when she was 16. One of the women also said he had been physically and emotionally abusive. Londons Metropolitan Police said after the allegations were made public, officers received a report of a sexual assault in London that allegedly took place in 2003, which is three years before the earliest assault that media had reported. Police said officers were in contact with the woman and providing her support. While the police did not identify Brand by name, they referred to the public allegations and urged anyone who believes they may have been a victim of a sexual offence, no matter how long ago it was, to contact us. Following the allegations, Brand was dropped by his talent agency, Tavistock Wood. His publisher, Bluebird, also said it would pause publishing with Brand in the future. The Associated Press contributed. Updated at 1:01 p.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. British Vogue has appointed its new editor ending months of speculation sparked in the wake of Edward Enninful s resignation which came amid rumours of a power struggle with Vogues editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour. Chioma Nnadi said she was beyond excited and honoured, to be made British Vogues head of editorial content, succeeding the outgoing Enninful who enjoyed a six-year tenure as both its first male and first Black editor. British Vogues decision to appoint the 44-year-old journalist of Nigerian and Swiss-German descent will likely ensure the increased visibility of ethnic minority models and diversity within the publications pages, something Enninful is credited with championing. Following her appointment, London-born journalist Nnadi has become the first Black woman to lead the legendary fashion magazine since its inception in 1916. Nnadi, who is currently based in New York, was notably absent from this weeks glitzy Vogue World event, which was billed as the UKs answer to the Met Gala. She will take up her new role in the London office on 9 October. Announcing Nnadis appointment on Monday 18 September, Wintour praised her as an editor and writer with an impeccable reputation, describing her as a beloved colleague who would focus as much on music and culture as she would fashion. Wintour added: Chioma is beloved among her colleagues at Vogue, and is an editor and writer with an impeccable reputation both here and in the fashion industry at large. Im so grateful to Edward Enninful for everything hes accomplished at British Vogue, and were all looking forward to a productive and creative relationship with him in his new role. I cant think of a more worthy person to follow in his footsteps than Chioma, who has proven herself adept at speaking to our digital audience and has found ways to extend Vogues reach, authority, and influence across all of our platforms. Chioma Nnadi has been appointed British Vogues head of editorial content, succeeding the outgoing Enninfu (Stefan Ruiz/Vogue) She is passionate about fashion, music and culture, and I couldnt be happier that she will be leading our editorial and creative teams in London. Enninfuls reign as head of editorial content comes to an end after six years, with the Ghanaian-born British editor set to move to an advisory role in 2024. He is credited with making the magazine more diverse and inclusive, and for reimagining what it means to be a British Vogue cover star turning the spotlight on activists, frontline workers, as well as a new vanguard of disabled talent for this years May issue. Enninful described Nnadi as a brilliant and unique talent with real vision in a statement. (Getty) Born to a Nigerian father and Swiss-German mother, Nnadi grew up in central London and credited the citys boundary-pushing style and creative scene as a key influence. Nnadi said: Im beyond excited and honoured to have been appointed as British Vogues head of editorial content. As someone who was born and raised in London, the energy of the city its boundary-pushing style and creative scene has shaped the way I look at the world. Now, more than ever, it feels like a moment to look beyond borders while also celebrating the broad scope of what it means to be British. Im looking forward to engaging a loyal and inspired digital community that is energised by our access, point of view, and storytelling. She began her journalism career as a features writer at the Evening Standard, before moving to New York to work for indie style magazine Trace. Her journey at Vogue began as a writer in 2010. Rising through the ranks, she was then promoted to fashion news director and, most recently, editor of Vogue.com. Nnadi has also overseen digital coverage of flagship Vogue events, including the Met Gala and the inaugural, glitzy Vogue World event last week. Vogue World was attended by fashions elite along with some of the biggest names in music, film and television, including Stormzy, Sienna Miller, Leonardo DiCaprio, James Corden and Harriet Walter. The parents of a University of Idaho murder victim believe there is evidence their daughters attacker was familiar with her. In an investigation by CBS News entitled The Night of the Idaho Student Murders that aired on Saturday 16 September, correspondent Peter Van Sant spoke to Steve and Kristi Goncalves, who shared screenshots of what they believe to be the sole murder suspect, Bryan Kohbergers Instagram account. Mrs Goncalves revealed she and her husband discovered that Mr Kohberger followed Maddie Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves on the social media platform, and when the couple cross-referenced this account with the profiles of the four victims, it showed he had interacted with Mogens Instagram posts. She told Van Sant: You would go to Maddies Instagram account and look at her pictures, and he liked them. He had liked them. Bryans name was under a lot of Maddies pictures. Liked her pictures, liked that picture and that picture, and that picture, and that picture. So, he was actively looking at the Instagram account. CBS has not been able to authenticate the account or confirm its the profile of Mr Kohberger. The parents also said the account is no longer active, having disappeared after Mr Kohbergers arrest on 30 December 2022. The victims, Goncalves, Mogen ( both 21) and Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin (both 20) were stabbed to death at an off-campus residence on 13 November 2022, and police arrived at the scene eight hours after the horrific attack. The murder weapon, a military-style knife, has not yet been recovered. When news of the murders broke, it left the community struggling to come to terms with the gruesome details, amid fears the murderer was still active. Following a weeks-long manhunt, Mr Kohberger, a 28-year-old Washington State University student, then pursuing a PhD Criminology course, was arrested following a raid on his apartment, office and family home. In an affidavit acquired by CBS, investigators were revealed to have DNA, cellphone records and surveillance camera evidence linking Mr Kohberger to the crime. In May, Mr Kohberger was indicted by a grand jury on four counts of first-degree murder and one burglary charge. Appearing at Latah County District Court in Moscow, Idaho, he refused a plea deal, prompting the judge to enter a not guilty plea on his behalf. Bryan Kohberger, pictured in his booking photo shortly after being arrested on the suspicion of fatally stabbing four University of Idaho students. (Getty) The trial date was initially set for 2 October 2023, but in a surprise move, Mr Kohberger caused it to be delayed indefinitely by waiving his right to a speedy trial. Despite no date set yet for trial, the case has attracted national attention and on Wednesday 13 September, Latah County District Judge John Judge saw the defence and the prosecution following a request from both parties to restrict cameras in the courtroom. In a bizarre move, Mr Kohberger is seeking to ban cameras to stop the media from focusing on his crotch, as his attorney Anne Taylor argued, while the prosecution presented their concerns that cameras will have a substantial chilling effect on the ability of witnesses to openly, fully and candidly testify about some horrible occurrences. However while in court, the families of Goncalves and Kernodle broke from prosecutors to request cameras be present to document the trial. In a statement, they said, It is important to the victims family, relatives, community members and the public that this veil of secrecy be lifted at the trial. This not only ensures accountability for all the parties involved but also helps the public maintain its faith in the justice system. The hearing ended with no decision. This image from video, provided by the Mexican government, shows Ovidio Guzman Lopez being detained in Culiacan, Mexico, Oct. 17, 2019. (Mexican government) Under tight security in Chicagos federal courthouse, a son of Joaquin El Chapo Guzman pleaded not guilty Monday to sweeping narcotics trafficking charges alleging he helped lead the notoriously violent Sinaloa cartel after his fathers arrest seven years ago. Dressed in an orange jail jumpsuit and shackled at the ankles, Ovidio Guzman Lopez, 33, listened to the proceedings through a Spanish interpreter, though he occasionally answered U.S. District Judge Sharon Johnson Colemans questions in heavily accented English. Advertisement Prosecutors said one of the five counts Guzman Lopez is charged with carries a mandatory life sentence if convicted. The death penalty was taken off the table as part of a negotiation for Guzman Lopezs extradition with Mexican authorities, according to prosecutors. Guzman Lopez waived his right to a detention hearing and will be held without bond pending trial. He was represented by attorney Jeffrey Lichtman, the same New-York based lawyer who led his fathers criminal trial team. Advertisement The next court date was set for November. Guzman Lopez was one of four El Chapo sons, nicknamed the Chapitos, charged in an indictment unsealed in Chicago earlier this year. Of the sons, Guzman Lopez, who is known as El Raton, or The Mouse, was the only one in custody. He was captured in Culiacan, Mexico, in January, touching off battles in the area that ended with 10 soldiers and 19 suspected cartel members dead, according to news reports. Guzman Lopez, who was being held in Mexico pending extradition proceedings, was flown to Chicago on Friday evening. Security was tight at the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse for his first court appearance, with cellphones and other electronics banned in the courtroom and at least eight deputy U.S. marshals standing around the defendant and near the courtroom door. Sporting a several-day growth of beard, Guzman Lopez wore eyeglasses and interpreter headphones throughout the 15-minute hearing. He told the judge he takes medication for anxiety and depression and also had surgery for a stomach ailment last year. When the judge asked if he still takes medication for the stomach problem, Guzman Lopez answered in English, For life, yes. Guzman Lopez is the highest-profile Sinaloa figure to appear in a Chicago courtroom since Vicente Zambada Niebla, the eldest son of cartel boss Ismael El Mayo Zambada, was extradited here more than a decade ago and secretly began cooperating with the government. Advertisement El Mayo is also charged in the same indictment and remains a fugitive. [ Violence hits Mexico cartel stronghold as Chapo son nabbed ] Guzman Lopez was among 28 reputed members of the notorious Sinaloa cartel charged as part of a multijurisdictional fentanyl-trafficking investigation unveiled in April by Attorney General Merrick Garland, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration chief Anne Milgram and other top federal prosecutors, including acting Chicago U.S. Attorney Morris Pasqual. In outlining the charges, Garland described the violence of the Sinaloa cartel and how its members have tortured perceived enemies, including Mexican law enforcement officials. In some cases, cartel members also have fed victims, some still alive, to tigers owned by Guzmans sons, Garland said. The superseding Chicago indictment, which was filed under seal in January, alleged Guzman Lopez assumed day-to-day control of the cartel after his fathers arrest in 2016. The indictment accuses the sons of orchestrating the shipment of thousands of pounds of cocaine, marijuana and other drugs into the U.S. by rail, road and through tunnels and other means. The sons allegedly furthered the conspiracy by bribing public officials and using guns and other dangerous weapons to commit violence, including murder, kidnapping, and assault against law enforcement, rival drug traffickers and members of their own trafficking organization, the indictment alleged. Advertisement Guzmans other sons charged in Chicago, Jesus Alfredo Guzman Salazar, Ivan Archivaldo Guzman Salazar, and Joaquin Guzman Lopez, remained at large as of Friday. [ El Chapos sons among 28 Sinaloa cartel members charged by US ] The indictment was filed as part of the same case originally filed in Chicago in 2009 against El Chapo himself as well as many of his top henchmen, which is widely considered the largest narcotics case ever brought in Chicago. Those charges alleged the Sinaloa cartel used jumbo jets, submarines and tunnels to smuggle massive amounts of drugs into the U.S., much of which was later distributed in wholesale quantities in Chicago. The cartel members then laundered billions of dollars in proceeds back to Mexico. Among the cartels top distributors were Pedro and Margarito Flores, twin brothers who rose from the obscurity of the Little Village neighborhood on the West Side to working directly for El Chapo before cutting a secret cooperation deal with the government. The twins decision to cooperate with federal authorities in 2008 culminated with Pedro Flores testifying against El Chapo at his trial in New York in December 2018. Advertisement El Chapo was convicted in New York in 2019 and is serving a life sentence at a maximum security federal prison in Colorado. The indictments announced in April, meanwhile, differed significantly from previous investigations by including allegations that the cartel is now trafficking fentanyl, a synthetic narcotic 50 times more potent than heroin. Nearly 107,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in the U.S. in 2021. The Drug Enforcement Administration says most of the fentanyl trafficked in the United States comes from the Sinaloa cartel. jmeisner@chicagotribune.com Bulgarian farmers protesting in the town of Dragomani, near the Bulgarian-Serbian border Farmers across Bulgaria began protests against the countrys parliament deciding to resume imports of agricultural products from Ukraine, Forbes Bulgaria reported on Sept. 18. Read also: Newly set Russian military commissariats on occupied territories seize civilian equipment By 10:00 a.m. local time, farmers had brought heavy farming equipment onto major roadways, blocking traffic. They shut down border crossings, major roads, and highways in the country. The protesters are demanding the government extends the ban on imports of Ukrainian sunflower, wheat, corn, and rape seeds. They also want a ban on the import of sunflower oil, fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables, milk and dairy products, meat and meat products, honey, and beekeeping products from Ukraine. Additionally, farmers insist on stricter controls over the origin and quality of agricultural products imported into the country. They are also demanding full compensation for "increased production costs due to war" to be paid by Sept. 30. Bulgarian PM Nikolai Denkov said the protesting farmers had rejected his two invitations for dialogue. He stated he "will not invite them [for talks] until they say they are ready to meet." Read also: Ukraine to compensate farmers for crops lost due to Kakhovka dam destruction Previously, Denkov described the farmers' arguments as "unworkable," comparing them to "terrorists", attracting criticism from local farm workers and some politicians. Read also: Hungary threatens to introduce total ban on Ukraine agro imports On Sept. 15, the European Commission decided not to extend the ban on importing Ukrainian grains into Poland, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, and Slovakia, provided that Ukraine adheres to certain rules, such as implementing export control measures. Read also: Brussels allows Ukraine grain import ban to expire After this, Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia announced they would unilaterally continue the ban on importing Ukrainian grains. Besides wheat, rapeseed, sunflower, and corn, Poland has banned the import of groats and flour into the country, while Hungary has expanded the list to 25 items. 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 Burgettstown Middle/High School and Avella and Fort Cherry school districts were evacuated on Monday due to bomb threats. Burgettstown notified families that the district received an email regarding the threat and evacuated students. Students were relocated to an area several miles from the school. Police searched the building. Originally, students were going to return to the school, but they decided to cancel and sent all students home for the day. In an update sent out on Monday afternoon, the Burgettstown district said an explosive-detecting dog was brought on-site and swept both schools. No suspicious devices were found, and the buildings are cleared to resume normal operations. Email threats were also sent to Avella, Fort Cherry and California, according to school officials. Fort Cherry evacuated and sent elementary students home while police investigated. High school students were evacuated to the football field until the buses could get them home. Avella also received a threat and evacuated their buildings, the superintendents office confirmed. California Area School District officials said they received an email bomb threat, but after working with local and state police, they determined the threat noncredible and continued to closely monitor the premises. Over the weekend, state police opened an investigation into a threatening email sent to the Albert Gallatin School District. The sender did not name a specific school or district. It is not known at this time if the schools received the same threat. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW TRENDING NOW: Firefighters respond to incident at Kennywood Park Community fun day honors teen murdered at haunted hayride Jefferson Hills Police Department looking for missing woman VIDEO: Man shot after reported fight in Pittsburghs South Side overnight DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts On Friday night, Fox News discussed how the Democratic Party is failing women, and MSNBC spoke about special prosecutor Jack Smiths request to limit Donald Trump s speech in the Washington, D.C., case. Fox News The lefts take on feminism Friday night on the Ingraham Angle, Laura Ingraham spoke to Fox News contributor Lisa Boothe and Evita Duffy-Alfonso, a staff writer for The Federalist. Ingraham asked Boothe, Feminism today seems to be about commodifying women. I thought we were supposed to get away from that? Boothe said she thinks the Democratic Party wants younger generations to feel a sense of hopelessness. I think they want a generation of hopeless women who are not happy in their lives, not fulfilled, and thats why theyre trying to remove these anchors from our life like faith, like family, like relationships that give us purpose, because empty vessels are more easily controllable, she said. Boothe then mentioned a study done by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that said, Nearly 3 in 5 (57%) U.S. teen girls felt persistently sad or hopeless in 2021 double that of boys, representing a nearly 60% increase and the highest level reported over the past decade. Duffy-Alfonso said, If you want to be happy in life, do the opposite of everything that the left is telling young women to do. ... Radical feminism (is) really under the umbrella of neo-Marxism, and what they want to do is not empower women or help women. They hurt women. Boothe added that she doesn't completely agree with the Republican Partys push to be married at such a young age. I believe in God, and I think Gods timing is right. He has a different path for each of us in life, and thats going to look different for each person. MSNBC President Trumps potential gag order On The Last Word Friday night, Lawrence ODonnell spoke to Rep. Ted Lieu, D-Calif., about Smiths motion to put a gag order on former President Trump. In the video O'Donnell shared of Trump, Trump makes the comment that Jack Smith wants to take away my rights under the First Amendment. Wants to take away my right of speaking freely and openly. Never forget our enemies want to stop us because we are the only ones that can stop them. ODonnell said, Donald Trump, taken at his word, seems to be incapable of comprehending the clear English that Jack Smith has used in the way he wants to restrict Donald Trumps language. Lieu added, Under the First Amendment, you can say whatever you want, but when youre dealing with a court case, you cannot intimidate witnesses or try to intimidate judicial personnel. ... Donald Trump has to understand that under the First Amendment as a defendant, there are certain things that he is simply not allowed to say. This is not just Donald Trump saying things. It is an entire ecosystem. We have to have jurors that are not intimidated by that, and youve got the former president of the United States saying very violent things in his posts. Lieu added, I think its appropriate for a judge to say, You just can't say certain things because youre a defendant in a criminal trial. St. Frances Cabrini School fifth grader Sean Borromeo (center) won second place in the Catholic Daughters of the Americas education contest with his drawing of Jesus jumping from one mountaintop to the other. Sean competed with students in other countries in the Western Hemisphere meaning he placed at an international level. With him are his parents Noriza and Oscar Borroemeo. Sean Borromeos father Oscar is impressed this his sons artistic ability. The St. Frances Cabrini School fifth grader won second place and $50 in an educational contest sponsored by the Catholic Daughters of the Americas. And this is an international award, said Lisa Campos, co-chair of the education committee for the local chapter of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas. Its not just the U.S. but the Americas, stressed Campos. That means Sean competed against students from other countries in the Western Hemisphere. He placed first in the state of Louisianas CDA contest before going on to compete at the international level. Sean drew a picture of Jesus jumping from one mountaintop to another. It was in keeping with one of the themes of the contest which was Gods love and kindness will shine upon us like the sun that rises in the sky. Luke 1:78. Seans parents Oscar and Noriza Borromeo were on hand to see Sean get his award after morning mass. Oscar saw his sons drawing for the first time at mass. He was impressed with his sons artistic ability. I know he can paint. He can do drawing on his tablet but didnt know it was like this, said Oscar. Its good, said Noriza. This is the first time any student from the two Catholic elementary schools in Alexandria has won an award like this at the international level. We are so proud that we have children participating in our community. And then to have a child when it's just, you know, we're a small town, so anything like this is exciting, said Susan Harrison, CDA regent. You need to take this time and have this frame, Campos told Sean. It's a pretty big deal, Buddy. The drawing will be displayed on the school's Facebook Page St. Frances Cabrini School. This article originally appeared on Alexandria Town Talk: Cabrini School student's drawing places second in international contest Good morning and welcome to the A.M. Alert! BILL TO REQUIRE COUNTIES TO DESIGNATE PET-FRIENDLY EMERGENCY SHELTERS HEADS TO NEWSOM In the hurly-burly of high-profile last-minute bills passed last week, it was easy to miss some other measures that could touch on Californians lives in a big way. One was AB 781, by Assemblyman Brian Maienschein , D-San Diego. Unfortunately, as many Californians are discovering, climate change-fueled disasters are only getting worse in the state. Wildfires. Floods. Mudslides. And that toll isnt just on humans. Our pets likewise suffer during such catastrophes. AB 781 is intended to provide a lifeline to both Californians and their cherished pets, by requiring local governments to ensure that there are pet-friendly shelters available in the event that disaster strikes. The bill was championed by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and passed out of the Assembly and Senate with unanimous support. It now goes to Gov. Gavin Newsom an avowed animal lover for a signature. Newsom has until Oct. 14 to sign or veto the bill. Signing will likely prove popular with Californians. In a recent survey commissioned by the ASPCA, more than three quarters (76%) said that they would take their pet with them if they had to evacuate, while more than half (51%) said they would only evacuate if they could take their pets with them. Nearly a quarter (24%) of respondents who have had to evacuate said that they were forced to abandon their pet while doing so, with 25% saying they did not have access to pet-friendly accommodations. RESOLUTION TO CALL FOR MORE SPAY/NEUTER FUNDING ON HOLD TIL 2024 Speaking of animals, an Assembly concurrent resolution calling for more funding for spay and neuter services for dogs and cats never made it to the Senate floor for a vote before lawmakers finished their business last week. ACR 86, by Assemblyman Ash Kalra, D-San Jose, not only called for the state and local governments to spend more money on animal sterilization to prevent proliferation of strays, but also asked Veterinary Medical Board to encourage out-of-state veterinarians to get licensed in California to help address the states critical vet shortage. Finally, it called on the state to enact a public relations campaign to encourage people to adopt more shelter pets. The resolution passed unanimously in every committee where it was heard, as well as on the Assembly floor. But the bills late hearing in the Senate Business, Professions and Economic Development Committee and some Republican heartburn over language mentioning breeders kept it from receiving a vote before Senate leadership declared there would be no ACRs voted on in the last two weeks of session, according to resolution sponsor Social Compassion in Legislation. In essence, ACR 86 was held hostage by leadership, the organization said in a statement. Reach for comment, the office of Senate President pro Tem Toni Atkins, D-San Diego, said in an email, The Senate had notified all legislative offices that there would be no resolutions heard the last two week of session so we could beat the deadlines and pass legislations. It was on our consent calendar prior to the deadline on resos, but the author chose to pull it off consent. As it stands, ACR 86 wont be taken up again until 2024, when the Legislature reconvenes for the second half of the session. QUOTE OF THE DAY Lies may sound sensational. They may get repeated by the media. But, with true transparency, the truth will come out. Thank God. - Lorena Gonzalez Fletcher, head of the California Labor Federation and former assemblywoman, via Threads. Her post may be a reference to the recent court filing by her husband, former San Diego County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher, that asked a judge to remove portions of a lawsuit against him by a former municipal employee that allege sexual assault. Best of The Bee: The Dry Creek Elementary Joint School District has joined a growing list of California school systems that will notify parents if their child is considering a change in gender identification, via Jenavieve Hatch . California lawmakers overwhelmingly backed legislation that requires stringent lead testing of all taps used for drinking water at about 7,500 K-12 schools that receive federal funding to serve low-income children, via Cathie Anderson . California lawmakers brokered deals with landlords and Realtors to send Gov. Gavin Newsom bills to enhance protections for tenants a victory for renters, in spite of some significant concessions, via Lindsey Holden . The top investment expert for Californias state worker pension fund announced that she will leave her position at the end of the month, via Maya Miller . Hundreds of thousands of health care workers in California are likely to secure a new minimum wage of $25 an hour as the Legislature successfully sent the bill Thursday night to Gov. Gavin Newsoms desk, via Maya Miller . Bills aimed at overhauling two California criminal justice issues fell apart during the last hours of the legislative year, showing the challenges such measures face, even in a deep-blue state, via Mathew Miranda and Lindsey Holden . California lawmakers endorsed Gov. Gavin Newsoms latest plan to address the states worsening homeless crisis. Now, itll be up to voters, via Maggie Angst . How difficult should it be to raise taxes in California? Democratic lawmakers late Thursday night passed two constitutional amendments that could have lasting implications on state and local taxation leaving it to voters to weigh the question through three separate November 2024 ballot measures, via Maggie Angst . California may put oil companies on the financial hook to plug and clean aging oil fields after lawmakers approved a measure meant to prevent taxpayers from footing the bill for orphaned wells, via Ari Plachta. SAN DIEGO (KSWB) A bill that would make it easier for campers to reserve a campsite in California state parks is headed to the governors desk to be signed into law after it passed through the legislature with unanimous support. AB 618, introduced by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda), proposed amendments to state policies regarding campsite reservation that aim to free up more spaces by deterring late cancellations and no-shows with added penalties. The bill also directs the California State Parks department to implement a lottery system for a handful of the most coveted campsites, as well as provide a discount to park visitors under a certain income threshold through the Golden Bear pass. VIDEO: Dolphins swim through bioluminescent waters in Orange County Californias public parks and beaches are treasures that should be enjoyed by all Californians and demand for them has increased greatly, Bauer-Kahan said in a statement to FOX5SanDiego.com. As a camper myself, I have seen firsthand how our current outdated reservation system has led to many campsites being left empty. By promoting responsible reservation practices, California can increase access to these vital resources. California has the most state park land in the country with nearly 280 individual parks, including 15,000 campsites and other lodging options. As many as seven million campers per year stay at one of these sites, according to the California State Parks Department. Despite the expansive network of parks, more than half of campers across the country have expressed difficulty finding a campsite to book, according to a survey conducted by the camping website The Dyrt. Amid high demand, campers either have to make their reservation months in advance or make the limited 8 a.m. window opening on the Reserve California website in order to snag a spot. Current regulations for camping booking worsen this inaccessibility, given no existing penalties for reserving a spot that goes unused whether because of a last-minute cancellation or a no-show. AB 618 would change that. Under the bill, a cancellation made at least seven days before a reservation will be incentivized with a credit that can be used for another reservation within five years. Meanwhile, those who do not show up after the first day of the reservation will forfeit the remainder of the booking. Those who book lodging in a park will receive at least two reminder emails prior to the booking start date to remind the reservation holder of the upcoming stay, as well as cancellation and refund or credit options. AB 618 would also free up spots at campsites by capping the number of days that people can stay at the same campsite per year at 30, as well as limit the length of reservations during peak season to seven consecutive nights. These provisions would apply to all state parks, including the 150 parks that do not use the Reserve California booking system. The new lottery system, however, would only apply to as many as five of the most popular campsites in the state before 2025. According to the bill, the State Parks department will determine the campsites based on booking interest six months ahead of a reservation date. While it is great many of State Parks camping and lodging sites are extremely popular, this popularity limits access to overnight stays at many of Californias most beautiful locations, the California State Parks Foundation wrote. (This bill) proposes changes to the reservation system that incentivize early cancellations, which in turn should make more campsites available to everyone. This Anza-Borrego cave system among largest in North America In addition to these proposed changes for reservations, AB 618 would implement a 25% discount on campsite bookings for low-income individuals that hold an annual pass to state parks called the Golden Bear pass. CalWORKs and supplemental security income recipients are eligible to get this pass, as well as households that have an income that fall below a certain income level. AB 618 passed through a concurrence vote on Wednesday just one day before the end of the legislative session. Gov. Gavin Newsom has until Oct. 14 to either sign or veto the law. If the bill is signed, the changes to the reservation system will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2024. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. Gov. Gavin Newsom and fellow California Democrats are suddenly running on fumes when it comes to finding new solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Real and inevitably difficult progress is no longer the focus. Instead, a new strategy has emerged: Blame big oil companies for concealing the ills of fossil fuels for decades, and shame the worlds biggest corporations for failing to document all their emissions. Opinion Newsoms new tactics are coming into focus at the same time that an event of global significance is happening. Climate Week NYC, which the California governor is attending, will convene this week in New York. Charging after oil companies will surely generate some headlines and support among factions of the public. But none of it reduces a single molecule of greenhouse gas emissions. In this critical moment, Newsom is all about paperwork, whether it is litigation or new analyses of what it takes to create the products we eagerly consume. The bottom line is California is no longer pushing the edge at accelerating the transition away from fossil fuels. We have shifted to a strategy that emphasizes more litigation and more bureaucracy. And that is seriously bad news for a planet that could use a more creative approach from us. First, the litigation. Newsom and California Attorney General Rob Bonta have filed a lawsuit against five large oil companies that do business in the state. The basic legal theory is that these companies have covered up for many years their products harmful role in filling the atmosphere with dangerous greenhouse gas emissions. And now, after keeping us all in the dark, they must pay and pay dearly. Setting aside whether the companies concealed their own research, the lawsuit ignores the reality that scientists throughout the world have been conducting their own independent research all along. Global warming has not been a carefully kept corporate secret. Yes, the behavior of these companies, particularly the spiking profits stemming from Russian President Vladimir Putins war against Ukraine and the ensuing seismic changes in the global energy markets, has been outrageous. But the oil companies are a convenient scapegoat. Suing them is not real progress. Neither is Newsoms second new quest, which is for more bureaucracy. The most contentious climate change bill before the California Legislature this year targeted the 5,000-some companies with at least a billion dollars worth of business that are active in the state and generate more than $1 billion in sales globally. Senate Bill 253 by Scott Wiener, D-San Francisco, sought to require these companies to tabulate their greenhouse gas emissions not just here in California, but across the globe. The legislation requires the companies to file the information annually with the California Air Resources Board. To prevent all the ensuing analysis from costing staff time and stressing the state budget, SB 253 also requires the companies to pay a yet-to-be-specified fee to cover the resulting state costs of their new information. SB 253 made it through the Legislature with sufficient numbers of Democrats sending it to the governor. And now on the eve of the big climate change event in New York, Newsom on Sunday announced that he will sign the bill. Normally announcements like this are carefully choreographed to take place here in California, with the authors and supporters standing obediently behind a governor sitting behind a desk wielding the pen. But there is no time for that now. There are too many cheerleaders gathering in New York to ignore. Yes, big companies are producing emissions to create products, here and throughout the world. But business leaders have warned Newsom that quantifying this is a potential nightmare, given how big companies contract with smaller companies to get their products to market. But Newsom is ignoring them. He clearly wants to have a big week in New York. The governor seems to be shifting from a somewhat centrist style of leadership that balances innovation with the realities of trade and commerce. It feels like he is drifting more left and populist. Time will tell. Progress on climate change only happens when a leader suggests a way to actually stop the problem. Which means emitting less. Dont look to California for real ideas right now. Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom points to a graph showing the increased risk of wildfires due to climate change during a news conference in Rancho Cordova, Calif., in 2019. (Rich Pedroncelli/AP) California filed a lawsuit Friday against five of the worlds largest oil companies, alleging that they lied to the public about the damage their product is causing. The state wants the companies to pay into a fund that would support recovery from climate change-related extreme weather events like heavy storms and wildfires. For more than 50 years, Big Oil has been lying to us covering up the fact that theyve long known how dangerous the fossil fuels they produce are for our planet, California Gov. Newsom, a Democrat, said in a statement on the suit. California taxpayers shouldnt have to foot the bill for billions of dollars in damages wildfires wiping out entire communities, toxic smoke clogging our air, deadly heat waves, record-breaking droughts parching our wells." The industry swiftly struck back. This ongoing, coordinated campaign to wage meritless, politicized lawsuits against a foundational American industry and its workers is nothing more than a distraction from important national conversations and an enormous waste of California taxpayer resources, Ryan Meyers, senior vice president of the American Petroleum Institute (API), an industry group also named as a defendant, said in a statement. Read more on Yahoo News, California lawsuit says oil giants deceived public on climate, seeks funds for storm damage, from the Associated Press Which companies are named in the lawsuit? A gas station in Alhambra, Calif., on Sept. 18. (Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images) Californias lawsuit singles out ExxonMobil, Shell, Chevron, ConocoPhillips and BP. These are five of the eight largest oil companies by market capitalization and five of the six largest that arent state-owned. Evidence of deception The Wall Street Journal reported last week that even after ExxonMobil admitted in 2006 that the scientific consensus was that increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide causes global warming, internal documents showed the company privately strategized on how to minimize public concern about climate change. Other recent revelations Last September, congressional investigators obtained documents showing that executives at Shell and ExxonMobil privately dismissed their companies' public commitment to addressing climate change. A study published in Science in January found that between 1977 and 2003, Exxon scientists had accurately projected future warming internally, while the company publicly disputed climate science. A growing trend Seven other states, 36 municipalities and the District of Columbia have filed similar lawsuits against oil and gas corporations, accusing them of lying to the public about climate change, but California is by far the largest state. Read more on Yahoo News, California sues five major oil companies for 'decades-long campaign of deception' about climate change, from the Los Angeles Times Why this case could succeed Pumpjacks operate at the Kern River Oil Field in Bakersfield, Calif., in 2015. (Jae C. Hong/AP) In August, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected an effort by oil companies to force lawsuits brought by local governments to move to federal courts, meaning that they wont be able to stop California from trying this case in state court, which is widely perceived as more friendly to plaintiffs. Read more on Yahoo News, Supreme Court deals blow to oil companies by turning away climate cases, from NBC News The counterargument Fossil fuel companies say that since everyone uses their products, they alone shouldnt be blamed for climate change. Climate policy should be debated in Congress, not the courtroom, Meyers of API said. Chevron said the lawsuit has no constructive or constitutionally permissible role in changing energy policy. Climate change is a global problem that requires a coordinated international policy response, not piecemeal litigation for the benefit of lawyers and politicians, the companys statement added. Why it matters If California wins, other states are likely to follow suit in order to try to secure compensation for the growing costs of climate change. California is a bellwether for U.S. environmental action, Geoffrey Supran, director of the University of Miami's Climate Accountability Lab, said in a statement. Momentum has been building for several years behind lawsuits seeking to hold Big Oil accountable for its decades of climate deception and damages, and now that the fifth-largest economy in the world has waded in, the floodgates are truly open. Cambridge Health Alliance has reinstated its mask mandate for patients, staff and visitors in all patient care areas. The move was made with COVID-19 cases increasing locally and across Massachusetts, the healthcare organization said in a patient alert. As of Monday, September 18, masks are required in all patient care areas at CHA, the healthcare organization said. This means you must wear a mask anywhere that direct patient care is delivered - such as your doctors office, lab, radiology, the emergency department, and all inpatient care areas. We feel strongly that masking during viral respiratory season (Flu, RSV, COVID) is an important step to protect our patients and employees from illness, especially those who are at highest risk, the healthcare organization said. Masks will be available in the main lobbies of Cambridge Health Alliances three campuses and its community care center locations. In August, UMass Memorial Health in central Massachusetts reinstated its mask mandate as a protective measure for our staff and patients. 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 Whether its $2,100 or $2,000 the new and old maximum amount individuals can give to political candidates in Kentucky both are lot of money. But many folks gave that to Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear in his re-election bid, as well as to GOP challenger Attorney General Daniel Cameron. To be exact, 1,345 people doled out $2,000 or more to Beshear and 555 gave that amount to Cameron since the general election began, according to recent reports from the Kentucky Registry of Election Finance. The max, or near-max, donations amount to more than half of the total individual contributions to both candidates. 52.7% of the Cameron campaigns $2,193,028 individual contribution haul came from such donations, while 55.6% of Beshears cash hauled in $5,018,132 from individual donations. While both campaigns, same as their respective parties, are hard at work to ensure a claim over the governors chair, there are also several outside groups spending in the race. While Beshears campaign warchest has dwarfed Camerons, spending from these groups in support of Cameron is close to equal that of outside groups supporting Beshear $13 million to $13.8 million. About $4.24 million of Beshears $5 million itemized individual haul is from Kentucky. Just over $1 million of that is from Louisville, the states largest city and a Democratic stronghold. Around $700,000 of that total is from Lexington, the states second-largest city. All told, about 34% of Beshears individual contributions came from those two cities. One occupation group stood out among others on Beshears donor list: attorneys. People who listed attorney as their job gave Beshear more than $660,000. One firm in particular padded that stat. Employees of Morgan & Morgan, which touts itself as Americas largest injury law firm, gave $128,000 in contributions to Beshear, the largest contribution total from any single employer during this reporting period. Like Beshears donor list, attorneys played a major role in funding Camerons campaign. Attorneys were the largest occupation group contributing to Cameron, clearing $170,000. Several of those gave max or near-max donations. A lower proportion of Camerons individual contributions came from the states two biggest cities, 23%, than Beshear. Cameron brought in less money from Louisville than Beshear, garnering about $353,000 from the city. About $155,000 came from Lexington. Pace of the ads While Beshear and pro-Beshear forces have clearly outraised and outspent their counterparts so far, the pace of advertisements on television as well as direct mail for both sides was roughly even in mid-September. Buoyed by outside groups like the ones largely funded by Pennsylvania billionaire Jeff Yass as well as one funded by the Republican Governors Association, the pro-Cameron side purchased a total of $1.43 million in television ads Sep. 12-18.; only about $121,000 of that came from the Cameron campaign, according to ad tracking firm Medium Buying. The pro-Beshear side spent about $1.56 million during that time, with more than $437,000 coming from the Beshear campaign. Allegedly toxic division in AGs office Another story from a national outlet about Camerons office came out this week. The Daily Beast spoke with several former employees working in the criminal appeals division of the Office of the Attorney General who complained of a toxic environment created by former deputy solicitor general Jeffrey Cross, who left the division for another post last month. Some of the attorneys noted that Cameron was disengaged with the division while the office under Cross was described as a micromanaging nightmare, and emotionally abusive. A spokesperson for the office said that an official complaint against Cross was thoroughly investigated and found to have no merit. The Attorney Generals Office has the utmost respect for its employees and takes all complaints seriously. When a complaint is filed, the Offices human resources department fully and carefully investigates the matter and takes action when warranted. Every employee is also aware of the process for filing complaints with the Personnel Cabinet, the spokesperson wrote. How much did the down-ballot candidates raise? While all eyes have been on the recently released governors race finance report, the rest of the tickets on both sides of the aisle have been raising serious cash. GOP candidate for attorney general Russell Coleman leads the pack with about $916,000 cash on hand, having raised $389,000 since his uncontested primary concluded and carried over a large chunk from the primary season. Colemans maximum donors include an executive from a major gray machines company, the CEO of Cracker Barrel and Elaine Chao, the wife of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-KY, for whom Coleman worked in Washington. Coleman also received contributions from PACs linked to McConnell, Second Congressional District Representative Brett Guthrie, R-KY, and the prominent conservative megadonor Charles Koch. Colemans Democratic opponent, Louisville Rep. Pam Stevenson, raised $225,000 during the general election period, about a third of that carried over from the primary, and was left with $112,000 cash on hand. Notable Stevenson donors include California food industry billionaire Lynda Resnick and Junior Bridgeman, an entrepreneur whos one of the wealthiest former athletes in the world. A PAC tied to former Kentucky candidate for Congress and U.S. Senate Amy McGrath also chipped in a $2,000 donation. Other Democrats down the ballot were slightly out-raised by their Republican counterparts, but not by much the one exception being Democratic treasurer candidate Michael Bowman, whose $61,000 raised beat Republican Mark Metcalfs $38,000. Democratic However, all down-ballot Democrats received about $90,000 of in-kind contributions, meaning services worth that amount, from the Kentucky Democratic Party during the general election period. In the 2019 election, Democrats were defeated handily up and down the ballot. Secretary of State Michael Adams, who faced a popular former Miss America, is the only current GOP statewide officeholder to have won by single digits in his case 4.6%. Heres the total amount raised, including carry-over amounts from the primary, and cash on hand figures for every down-ballot candidate: Attorney General (R) Russell Coleman: $968,741 raised, $916,483 cash on hand (D) Pam Stevenson: $224,984 raised, $111,716 cash on hand Secretary of State (D) Buddy Wheatley: $165,692 raised, $152,358 cash on hand (R) Michael Adams, incumbent: $225,345 raised, $222,763 cash on hand Commissioner of agriculture (R) Jonathan Shell: $178,152 raised, $172,781 cash on hand (D) Sierra Enlow: $121,858, $107,592 cash on hand Auditor (D) Kim Reeder: $113,844 raised, $69,154 cash on hand (R) Allison Ball: $116,480 raised, $115,562 cash on hand Treasurer (R) Mark Metcalf: $38,065 raised, $20,482 cash on hand (D) Michael Bowman: $60,791 raised, $18,442 cash on hand Cameron camp calls Beshear education plan unfeasible Beshears relationship with the GOP-controlled legislature was skewered once again by the Cameron campaign, this time at a Moms for Cameron event hosted by Camerons wife Makenze. She said Beshears plan to give an across-the-board 11% raise to all school employees was laughable because he doesnt have the power to make it happen without legislative action. These 11% raises, I would imagine, thats not feasible. And he does not have the power to do that, Makenze Cameron said, according to the Associated Press. The Kentucky Democratic Party released a response to the story saying the Cameron team was mocking teacher raises. Cameron has a more modest plan to raise teacher pay to $41,500 from roughly $35,500, paired with a proposal to catch students up from learning loss that took place during the remote learning age with summer tutoring and more. Some districts in Kentucky pay more than that for starting teachers Fayette County was the first to get its starting pay over $50,000 and the statewide average salary last school year was $56,375. Beshear has said, citing National Education Association statistics, that the average teacher starting salary in Kentucky is $38,010. Cameron has stated that he crafted his plan in consultation with the legislature and is confident that it will pass if elected. Lao PM vows closer cooperation to support Belt and Road Initiative Xinhua) 10:52, September 18, 2023 NANNING, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone on Sunday expressed the country's continued support for the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Laos will maintain close cooperation with China and other members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and contribute to the initiative's implementation, Sonexay said at the opening ceremony of the 20th China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The prime minister said the two country's cooperation in infrastructure is producing practical results. He hailed the China-Laos Railway for promoting cooperation between China, Laos, and other ASEAN countries, creating jobs, and enhancing personnel exchanges. (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun) University of Chicago neuroscientist Sliman Bensmaia, with a rotating drum he used for research on the neural basis of touch. (Jason Smith/University of Chicago Medicine) Sliman Bensmaia was a University of Chicago neuroscientist whose research into the brain and the human sense of touch helped produce tactile feedback that made prosthetic limbs more useful for amputees and quadriplegics. Bensmaias work built on scientists long-standing knowledge that applying electricity to neurons can provoke certain physical reactions. Fueled by a belief that the sense of touch is a fundamental part of being human, Bensmaia ran a lab that performed both pure research and applied research, with an eye toward developing prosthetics whose movements could be directed by the brain while also having a realistic sense of touch. Advertisement He had boundless energy, and he was such an extremely energetic, enthusiastic guy who was brilliant and a really fast thinker, said U. of C. neurobiology professor David Freedman, whose lab was next to Bensmaias. He was one of those people who loved to find joyful happiness and kind of embrace that and be very enthusiastic about it. Bensmaia, 49, died on Aug. 11 at his Hyde Park home, according to the University of Chicago, which provided no cause of death. The Cook County medical examiners office is investigating, a spokesperson confirmed. Advertisement Born in Nice, France, Bensmaia grew up in France and Algeria before moving to the U.S. at age 15. He received a bachelors degree with a major in cognitive science from the University of Virginia in 1995 and a Ph.D. in cognitive psychology from the University of North Carolina in 2003. From 2003 until 2009, Bensmaia was a postdoctoral researcher and associate research scientist at Johns Hopkins Universitys Krieger Mind/Brain Institute in Baltimore, where he studied sensory neurophysiology. In 2009, he was hired as an assistant professor of organismal biology and anatomy at the U. of C., and he was named the universitys James and Karen Frank Family Professor in 2019. Bensmaias arrival at the U. of C. coincided with a new interest in prosthetics, fueled by the return to the U.S. of hundreds of veterans from wars in Afghanistan and Iraq who had lost arms or legs or had lost the use of their limbs because of spinal cord injuries. That prompted the U.S. Defense Department to commit funding to prosthetics research. Researchers found that electrodes implanted in patients brains allowed them to move robotic prosthetic arms using their thoughts. But those early prosthetics lacked the ability to receive and respond to tactile feedback. In addition, those prosthetics required patients to constantly be visually monitoring what they are doing or they wouldnt know whether they were holding or crushing something, Bensmaia told the Tribune in 2011. Funded in part by federal money, Bensmaias lab sought to develop more advanced prosthetics to give users a simulated sense of touch through complex sets of algorithms that map out the way the brain interprets touch. Using the algorithms, Bensmaia and his team were able to build software for computerized sensors that could transmit impulses to electrodes in the human brain, thus mimicking natural touch. U. of C. officials noted that in 2013 and 2015, Bensmaias lab produced groundbreaking studies that provided a road map for how to include realistic sensory feedback in prosthetic limbs. In 2016, he and research partners at the University of Pittsburgh created the first robotic prosthetic device providing realistic touch feedback through the devices fingertips to a human patient whose thoughts could control the prosthetic arm and hand. A short time later, that same patient attended a White House event and used that arm to greet President Barack Obama. Those successes paved the way for more work on prosthetics that would allow their users to be able to collect and understand information on sensations like texture, pressure and motion that the patients could then feel through their prosthetic limbs. Advertisement Further work included developing a robotic limb using a brain-machine interface in another patient with spinal cord damage who was featured in March on CBS 60 Minutes. He had this larger-than-life personality, with strong opinions, and he didnt shy away from expressing them, said Nicholas Hatsopoulos, a U. of C. organismal biology and anatomy professor and collaborator. And he was very dedicated to his work, and was very serious about doing the best science he could do. He demanded a lot from people in his lab, but he also had a great sense of humor. Recently, Bensmaia had been working with a gynecologist and a biomaterials engineer on an implantable device to help restore sensation and sexual function to breast cancer patients who had undergone a mastectomy followed by reconstructive surgery. Theres this huge need to restore functions to people who have lost their ability to control their limbs or feel sensations on their body, Freedman said. What he was working on in terms of the basic science was how the sense of touch works. Its a field that has come a long way to the point where we can say how to take our knowledge and turn it into something that can really help people. Freedman noted that Bensmaia felt an urgency in his work, even though it may be many years before widespread adoption of the technology he was developing. He was like, Why do we need to wait? Freedman said. He was impatient with the pace of science. Advertisement An accomplished pianist, Bensmaia originally wanted to be a musician, and he and Freedman formed a funk and soul-jazz band, FuzZz, with two other musicians. The group released an album in 2013 and performed regularly around the city. At the time of Bensmaias death, the group was recording its second album. Bensmaia is survived by his wife, Kerry Ledoux; a daughter, Cecily; a son, Maceo; his parents, Reda Bensmaia and Joelle Proust; and a brother, Djamel. No services have been announced yet. Goldsborough is a freelance reporter. To purchase a death notice, visit https://placeanad.chicagotribune.com/death-notices. To suggest a staff-written obituary on a person of local interest, email chicagoland@chicagotribune.com. Canada will allocate CAD 33 million ($24.4 million) to purchase air defense equipment for Ukraine, along with Denmark, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, the United States and other countries, the Canadian government's press service announced on Sept. 17. The countries will provide Ukraine with hundreds of short- and medium-range air defense missiles and other systems needed to protect critical infrastructure. The coalition, established in June 2023, is led by the United Kingdom. Read also: Defense Minister Reznikov shows off new Canadian armored vehicles The amount will be allocated from the new funding for military assistance to Ukraine worth CAD 500 million ($369 million), which was announced by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in June 2023. The Canadian government reported that since the beginning of 2022, it has provided over CAD 8 billion ($5.9 billion) in assistance to Ukraine, including over CAD 1.8 billion ($1.3 billion) in military aid (Leopard 2A4 tanks, NASAMS air defense system, M777 howitzers, AIM-7 missiles, 155-mm and 105-mm artillery ammunition, and other weapons). Read also: Ukraine gives Canada its military Wish List for Canadas CANSEC defense Since 2015, Canada has trained more than 38,000 Ukrainian servicemembers as part of Operation UNIFIER. In mid-June, NV reported that Lithuania, together with its partner countries, would purchase air defense equipment for Ukraine worth EUR 107.5 million ($114.7 million). 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 Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau has claimed that the Indian government could be behind the fatal shooting of Canadian Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Mr Trudeau told the Canadian parliament on Monday that his countrys security agencies were actively pursuing credible allegations of a potential link between agents of the government of India and the killing of a Canadian citizen. He said he had raised his concerns personally and directly with Indias prime minister Narendra Modi at the G20 last week. An Indian diplomat, who was the head of the countrys intelligence agency, has also been expelled from Canada, the Canadian foreign minister said. Hardeep Singh Nijjar was shot dead in his car by masked men outside a Sikh temple in Surrey, British Colombia, on 18 June. Justin Trudeau said he had raised his concerns personally and directly to the Indian prime minister (Reuters) India has previously denied any involvement with Mr Nijjars murder. Mr Nijjar was a prominent Sikh leader in British Colombia and a supporter of Khalistan - a separate homeleand for Sikhs in India. He had been accused of being a terrorist by India, something his supporters denied. Mr Nijjars name was reportedly included in a list of wanted men handed to President Trudeau during the prime ministers visit to India in 2018. Canada has declared its deep concerns to the top intelligence and security officials of the Indian government, Mr Trudeau said in an emergency statement to the House of Commons. Any involvement of a foreign government in the killing of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil is an unacceptable violation of our sovereignty. It is contrary to the fundamental rules by which free, open, and democratic societies conduct themselves. As you would expect, we have been working closely and coordinating with our allies on this very serious matter. In the strongest possible terms, I continue to urge the Government of India to cooperate with Canada to get to the bottom of this matter. Mr Trudeau offered support to members of the Indo-Canadian community who might be feeling angry or frightened. Let us remain calm and steadfast in our commitment to our democratic principles and our adherence to the rule of law, he added. This is who we are, and what we do, as Canadians. Canada is home to the largest Sikh diaspora outside the Indian state of Punjab. Hundreds of people protested after Mr Nijjars death and they were met by a small counter protest of Indian government supporters. STOCKHOLM Russian President Vladimir Putin had obvious reasons for hosting North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un at Vostochny, Russias new spaceport in eastern Siberia, this month. Owing to his illegal war of aggression in Ukraine, Putin is running low on both friends and ammunition. The Vostochny spaceport has a troubled history. Intended to replace the Baikonur facility in Kazakhstan, its construction was plagued by repeated delays and allegations of corruption and mismanagement. Now, it is rarely used though it did launch the high-profile Luna-25 mission that crashed into the moon recently. Russian-North Korean relations have a similar backstory. Once upon a time, the bond between the Kremlin and the Kim regime was tight. After all, communist North Korea was essentially a Soviet creation, and it relied heavily on Soviet support for decades. But following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russian leaders saw more to gain by developing relations with booming South Korea. The Kremlin effectively switched sides, joining the (unsuccessful) international effort to prevent the Hermit Kingdom from developing nuclear weapons. Read also: Belarus Weekly: Lukashenkos regime accomplice of Russian war crimes, EU says Now the situation has changed once again. Putins attempt to erase Ukraine from the map of Europe has made Russia an international pariah just like North Korea. Most of the worlds developed economies have signed on to comprehensive sanctions against Russia, and the United Nations General Assembly has issued several resolutions condemning Putins war of aggression. The very few countries that have sided with Russia constitute an international rogues gallery: Eritrea, Syria, Nicaragua, Belarus, Mali, and of course North Korea. Meanwhile, many countries that have abstained from these UN votes have increasingly made known their objections to Putins war. At the recent G20 summit in New Delhi, for example, the final joint declaration included a clear affirmation of the principle of territorial integrity an obvious reference to Russian aggression and the Kremlins misbegotten strategic objectives. Putin expected a quick victory when he launched his war in February 2022, but Russian forces have since lost roughly half of what they captured during the initial invasion. After nearly 600 days, they are bogged down and struggling to defend themselves against an independent, democratic Ukrainian polity that is determined to defend its freedom. Under these conditions, where Putin needs every friend he can get, North Korea is suddenly back in the Kremlins favor. With its thoroughly militarized society and abundant stocks of old Soviet-standard artillery ammunition, Kims regime looks like a lifeline for Russias flailing war effort. Putin therefore had little choice but to roll out the red carpet for the North Korean dictator. Though the details of the Vostochny dealmaking will remain undisclosed, it is safe to assume that Russia will get ammunition in exchange for various essentials that North Korea desperately needs, not least food and energy. Beyond that, there has also been talk of Russia assisting North Korea in developing and deploying satellites, an area where it has been singularly unsuccessful. Whatever the details, there can be little doubt that the deal violates the UN Security Councils sanctions against North Korea, which were originally put in place with Russian support. In claiming that the North Korea sanctions regime is a UN matter, not a Russian one, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is being dishonest in the extreme. We are witnessing the emergence of an axis of outcasts: countries united in their willingness to violate international law by starting wars, developing nuclear weapons, and violating sanctions. This list also includes Iran, where Russia has been acquiring kamikaze drones with which to attack Ukrainian cities and civilians. Read also: George Monastiriakos: The best reason why Russia must be defeated in Ukraine? Because it is weak But make no mistake: reaching out to a country like North Korea is a sign of profound weakness. China and India might not openly condemn Russian aggression, but nor have they endorsed it or done much to help Putins war effort (other than purchasing Russian hydrocarbons). And whatever support Belarus, Eritrea, Syria, or Mali are capable of offering, it will not help the Kremlin achieve the aims of its special military operation in Ukraine. Nonetheless, these outcasts, driven by desperation, will deepen their cooperation, introducing new risks to regional stability and the global order. For example, if Russia furnishes North Korea with the technologies it needs to advance its missile or nuclear programs, it is bound to have repercussions for Northeast Asian security. Russia and North Korea may be failing in their space efforts. But their sanctions-busting and rule-breaking here on Earth are sure to have a destabilizing effect on the international order. Editors Note: Copyright, Project Syndicate. The following article was published by Project Syndicate on Sept. 18, 2023, and has been republished by the Kyiv Independent with permission. The opinions expressed in the op-ed section are those of the authors and do not purport to reflect the views of the Kyiv Independent. Submit an Opinion Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukraine and Russia each fire 40,000 shells per day across the front line, which stretches over 1,000 kilometers through Ukrainian territory, CBS reported during a "60 Minutes" interview with President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sept. 17. Answering a question on the slow progress of the ongoing counteroffensive, Zelensky said that the situation is "difficult," but "it is important that we are moving forward every day and liberating territory." "We mustn't give Putin a break," he said, adding that the Russian dictator is someone who "cannot be trusted," because he has "not been a human being for a long time." Zelensky said he believes that Putin is going to continue using the threat of nuclear war, but is waiting for the U.S. to become less stable. The U.S. presidential election in 2024 will therefore be a time that Putin will threaten to use nuclear weapons to fuel instability, according to the Ukrainian president. Zelensky also said that Ukraine has "every moral right" to attack Russian strategic targets and that drone attacks send the message that "your sky is not as well protected as you think." He also addressed concerns about fear of Russian attacks on energy facilities as the cold season approaches. Last winter, relentless Russian strikes cut millions of Ukrainians off from heating and power. "If you cut off our power, deprive us of electricity, deprive us of water, deprive us to gasoline, we have the right to do the same to you," he said. Read also: Ukrainian innovators want to bring life-saving robots to the battlefield Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. A delicate coral, the color of a cherry blossom or a peony, moves gently with the water, each of its intricate arms outfitted with curled, spindle-like fingers. Unlike some of its relatives, this coral is skeleton-free almost gelatinous in appearance, and see-through around the edges. The camera, outfitted to the side of a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) remote-operated vehicle (ROV), zooms back out, turning its eye forward as the vessel continues its trek along the seafloor. There's life everywhere, but roughly two miles under the surface, it's not like we're used to. Some creatures, like the pink coral, look like they climbed off the pages of Dr. Seuss; others, like craggly, long-armed spider stars and misshapen squat lobsters, evoke something more like Tim Burton. The rover keeps going. To the right sits another soft-bodied coral, this one bright white and fan-shaped. The NOAA researchers operating the ROV, who can be heard chattering over the dive's live feed, describe the creature off-hand as a "sea orchid," as "sea lily" has already been taken. A lone shrimp, meanwhile, can be seen sitting at the bottom-left corner of the screen, its black eyes staring, unblinking, into the murky deep. That's but a minutes-long glimpse into NOAA's ongoing Alaska Seascape 5 mission, the latest installment of the agency's efforts to fully map the Gulf of Alaska's seafloor a lofty goal, considering both the size of the Alaskan Gulf and the fact that it's never before been done. And at its incredible depth, the freezing cold and high pressure environment is profoundly unforgiving. The massive undersea landscape is new to human eyes as is the sunlight-free ecosystem that flourishes within it. "We picked it because we thought it was going to be a weird place," NOAA physical scientist Sam Candio, the expedition's coordinator, told us over a video call. "And then we see weird stuff down there." It's all fascinating, not to mention undeniably beautiful, in a bizarre and otherwordly way. But of course, strange and lovely as they are, Truffula tree corals and lumpy lobsters aren't the reason why this particular Alaska Seascape mission has captured the public's attention. Back on August 30, toward the beginning of the mission, the researchers happened upon an especially strange sight: a mysterious golden "orb" of sorts, resting on the side of an unexplored underwater volcano, a hole ripped in the specimen's fleshy side. The object it was widely described as an orb in the media, but might more accurately be termed a fleshy lump was puzzling then, and remains so now. "Even from far away, [we were] like, 'what do we have here?'" Candio recalled. We caught the scientist shortly after NOAA had submerged its ROV for the day's exploration, and he was monitoring the live feed as we spoke. "I immediately thought sponge, because you see a lot of those at these depths. But getting closer, it looked less and less spongy." NOAA used its ROV's robotic arms to collect the specimen and soon shipped it to the lab, but even after a preliminary lab study, its origin remains unclear. That it's likely an egg casing of some kind seems to be a leading theory among researchers, but no one can be certain until its DNA has been sequenced. Even then, given the uncharted nature of the habitat, it's possible we still won't know. As it turns out, finding new and strange things isn't uncommon for expeditions of this kind. In fact, according to Candio, until the media picked up the story, most of the researchers "kind of forgot" about the finding. To them, it's all in a day's work. "We see weird stuff every dive that wasn't even the most interesting thing that jumped out at us at that time," said Candio, adding that a "lot of what we see, we just don't know what it is." (Asked what was the most interesting thing on the dive, the scientist excitedly explained that they'd seen two mother octopi breeding their young, and when the ROV moved in closely, researchers were able to catch a miraculous glimpse of tiny octopi still trapped inside of their clear eggs, tentacles and all.) "Everybody's saying, 'how unusual is this?'" the researcher continued, stopping briefly mid-sentence to witness the discovery of yet another octopus, in real-time, this one also caring for her eggs. "My question is, how do you or I know what is usual or unusual down there when we really just don't have any information? It's like being dropped in the city and walking down one block, and then saying you know everything about the world from what you saw on that one block and one city." Other deep-sea researchers echoed a similar refrain. "Because so little of the deep ocean is explored, each time we go to new areas of the deep sea we find new creatures," Dr. Amy Baco-Taylor, an Associate Professor in the Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences at Florida State University, who is not involved with NOAA's Alaskan expedition, told us over email. "Sometimes they are beautiful and highly photogenic like deep-sea corals or hydrothermal vents. Other times they are creepy and weird like this object." Asked to speculate on the origin of the object, Baco-Taylor agreed that "from its color and appearance, I would agree with the other scientists' initial guesses that it was a dead sponge." But the texture, she added, "doesn't seem right," and "an egg case of some sort is the next most likely option." An expert in seamounts and deep-sea corals, Baco-Taylor also noted that the maybe-egg happens to be surrounded by a field of sponges a common nursery ground for deep-sea critters. "The egg-like object helps to highlight the role that corals and sponges play in the deep sea by providing habitat for a wide diversity of invertebrates and fishes," she said. "If it is an egg, it will be exciting to find out what laid it, perhaps a species that is new to science!" It's still unclear why, exactly, the public has been so enraptured by the discovery. Of course, "mysterious golden egg found at undersea volcano" is just intrinsically fascinating, and the researchers' colorful livestream commentary as was first reported by The Miami Herald, one NOAA scientist remarked when the orb was spotted that finding it was "like the start of a horror movie," while another quipped that it looked "like something had tried to get in... or get out" probably worked to bolster the eeriness of the finding. "Maybe we shouldn't have been talking about aliens on [the livestream]," Candio confessed with a smile. "But it's fun to play along, you know?" But like outer space, our unexplored oceans hold a particular lure, especially at these lightless depths. Without the Sun to provide energy, life there is as close to alien as any on Earth can get; it's a planet within a planet, and the scientific community has hardly scratched the surface. "I think a lot of people have this misconception that scientists aren't people and that they know everything," said Candio. "And that's why people get frustrated when science changes or when people learn new things." But now, scientists worldwide are preparing to get to work. As Candio explained it during our call, the orb will soon be shipped to the National Museum to be archived. Once there, interested researchers from around the world will have access to it, and will be able to contribute, piece by piece, to understanding the discovery. It's incredibly collaborative basically, a global science project. Fingers crossed that this global project soon delivers some answers, because like everyone else, we're dying to know from whence this orb came. In the meantime, NOAA's Alaskan mission will continue, as will other exploratory expeditions, and the more we explore the deep sea, the more we'll surely find and hopefully, the more collective wonder we'll experience in turn. "Ocean exploration and exploration in general touches on a human desire to learn," said Candio. "People get so locked into the day-to-day and forget how much wonder and fantasy there is out there." And as for the orb itself, according to the scientist, its discovery "brings more attention to the vastness of the oceans how little we know," he added, "and how much there is left to learn." More on the unidentified golden orb: Scientists Recovered That Golden "Orb" From the Bottom of the Ocean and It Looks Different Now Chick-fil-A is planning to open restaurants in the United Kingdom by 2025, officials announced. The planned expansion comes four years after the company opened a temporary storefront in Reading, a town west of London, in 2019. LGBTQ activists and supporters protested the companys arrival due to comments made by former Chick-fil-A CEO Dan T. Cathy regarding same-sex marriage in 2012. McDonalds to phase out self-serve soft drink fountains In the past, Chick-fil-A has also faced criticism for its donations to Christian organizations, such as the Salvation Army and Fellowship of Christian Athletes, which have expressed opposition to gay rights. In 2019, the company announced it would give money to charities that focused on education, homelessness and hunger and expanded its partnerships with Junior Achievement, Covenant House and local food banks, USA Today reported. The company no longer donates money to the Salvation Army and Fellowship of Christian Athletes but still recieved backlash online for making those donations to begin with. The mall hosting the temporary store announced that the shops lease wont be expended beyond six months, shortly after it opened, Berkshire Live reported. In-N-Out Burger poised for major expansion As part of its new expansion plan, Chick-fil-A plans to invest $100 million in the U.K. over the next decade and plans to open restaurants in Asia by 2026. The company currently has more than 2,800 restaurants across the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada, a news release said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Chick-fil-A pulled out of the UK in 2019 after it faced backlash from LGBTQ+ activists. The chain had been criticized for its history of donating to anti-LGBTQ+ organizations. The chain no longer makes those donations and now plans to return to the UK with five stores. Chick-fil-A is returning to the UK. It's been four years since the chain retreated from the country after facing backlash for its history of donating to anti-LGBTQ+ organizations. Chick-fil-A said last week that it would open stores across the UK in early 2025 as part of a larger plan to expand to Europe and Asia. It plans to open five restaurants in the UK within the first two years of its plan. This will be the first permanent store outside of North America, The Atlanta-based fast-food chain known for its busy drive-thru lanes said. When Chick-fil-A dipped its toe in the UK market before, it received a chilly welcome. In 2019, Chick-fil-A opened a location in the UK, in the town of Reading in Berkshire, England. But the chain's reputation for making significant donations to right-wing groups with a history of anti-LGBTQ+ work prompted waves of protests. In 2012, CEO Dan Cathy, son of Chick-fil-A's founder Truett Cathy, said he did not support same-sex marriage. Though the chain stopped donations to several controversial groups in 2012, it continued to work with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the Salvation Army, two groups that have been criticized by LGBTQ+ advocates. That past came to haunt them in the UK. The chain eventually pulled out after six months. A month after announcing the UK closure, Chick-fil-A said it would no longer donate to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the Salvation Army. The chain did not return a request for comment about its UK comeback. In a press release, Joanna Symonds, Chick-fil-A's head of UK operations, said local operators will be encouraged "to partner with organisations which support and positively impact their local communities." "From our earliest days, we've worked to positively influence the places we call home, and this will be the same for our stores in the UK," Symonds said in a statement. Are you a Chick-fil-A insider with insight to share? Got a tip? Contact this reporter via email at nluna@insider.com . Or 714-269-8873 Read the original article on Business Insider Steve Young has been named chief executive officer of Bradentons HCA Florida Blake Hospital. He replaces Paige Laughlin, the hospitals chief operating officer, who served as interim CEO after Steve Niermans departure in May. Young comes to Blake from HCA Florida Englewood Hospital, where he served as CEO since September 2020. During his tenure in Englewood, Young led a $10 million renovation of the emergency department, more than doubling the number of patient care bays and adding endoscopy/bronchoscopy suites. Young also led the hospitals purchase of 30 acres and began planning the hospitals first freestanding emergency center in Wellen Park. Steve has worked tirelessly to modernize Englewood Hospital to advance the patient experience, enhance efficiency of operations, upgrade equipment and create a healing environment, Jyric Sims, HCA Healthcare West Florida Division president, said in a press release. Blake Medical Center now has a new name: HCA Florida Blake Hospital. The file photo was taken in September 2020. He is a dynamic leader who understands the market and is excited to join Blake Hospital as it continues to expand its services and footprint, Sims said. Prior to joining Englewood Hospital in September 2020, Young served in a number of leadership roles including chief operating officer at HCA Florida Brandon Hospital, HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital and HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital. Young holds a master of business administration from St. Leo University and a bachelor of science in applied physiology and kinesiology from the University of Florida. He and his wife, Katherine, have two daughters, Emily and Scarlett. The Bradenton Herald previously reported that the No. 1 challenge faced by Blake and other hospitals was staffing: finding enough health care providers to take care of patients due to the pressures and demands of the pandemic. A Tampa Bay Times story earlier this year reported that a Service Employees International Union report showed that staffing at HCAs 180 hospitals across the United States was inadequate. The Tampa Bay Times story reported several breakdowns in patient care at HCAs Florida hospitals, including at HCA Florida Blake Hospital. In March 2022, Blake Medical Center became HCA Florida Blake Hospital as Nashville-based HCA Healthcare, which bought Blake in 1980, rebranded all of its Florida hospitals. Steve Young has joined HCA Florida Blake Hospital as the new chief executive officer. A 24-year-old mother vanished after putting her children to bed during a sleepover with their cousin in October 2010. After the three children awoke the morning of Oct. 10, 2010, to find Unique Harris missing from the Washington, D.C., home, one of them noticed a couch cushion which would later serve as a key piece of evidence was newly torn, according to court documents. Investigators also noticed Harris cell phone and keys were missing from the house that morning while her purse, credit cards and eyeglasses she never left home without were still there, federal prosecutors said. Now, nearly 13 years after Harris was reported missing, a man accused of murdering her is going to prison, according to federal prosecutors who said her body still hasnt been found. A Metropolitan Police Department flyer regarding Unique Harris disappearance. A yearslong investigation revealed Isaac Moye, 46, of D.C., who Harris had known only two months before her disappearance, visited Harris home after her children went to bed the evening of Oct. 9, 2010, prosecutors said. Moyes semen was ultimately discovered on the torn sofa cushion in Harris home, according to prosecutors who said a review of GPS records also showed he spent the entire evening there. On Sept. 15, Moye was sentenced to 35 years in prison on a second-degree murder conviction in connection with Harris death, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia announced in a news release. His sentence will be followed by five years of supervised release. I hope he burns in hell after hes released, Harris sister said in reaction to his sentencing, according to WJLA. McClatchy News contacted Jason Tulley, Moyes attorney, for comment on Sept. 18 and didnt receive an immediate response. In court, Tulley maintained his client was wrongfully convicted and indicated he would appeal Moyes sentence, The Washington Post reported. Hes innocent and has no idea what happened to Unique Harris, Tulley said, according to the newspaper. Meanwhile, Harris mother Valencia Harris addressed Moye in court, calling him a demented psychopath, The Washington Post reported. If you dont want to tell me where you put my child so I can give her a decent burial before I die myself, thats fine. I know God will lead me to herI hope you spend the rest of your life being tormented by Uniques spirit. Justice delayed is not justice denied Ahead of Moyes sentencing, Tulley unsuccessfully tried to have him acquitted by arguing there was a lack of evidence in the case, court records filed in D.C. Superior Court in June show. Prosecutors argued Moyes motive for killing Harris stemmed from jealousy, as he was romantically interested in her when she wasnt and had a boyfriend, according to The Washington Post. During the yearslong investigation into Harris disappearance, Moye was repeatedly interviewed by D.C. police, who observed inconsistencies in his stories, according to prosecutors. He changed his story between interviews denying, then admitting, then denying that he and Unique Harris had ever been intimate, denying that he had ever been in her home overnight, and denying that he had seen her the day that she went missing, prosecutors said in the release. One witness testified in court that Moye spoke about a womans disappearance to them but reported that Moye said authorities were never going to find her because he did it, but did it the right way, according to prosecutors. At Moyes sentencing hearing, the judge said Moye was previously convicted in separate attacks on women, WJLA reported. He was ultimately arrested on a murder charge in connection with Harris death on Dec. 19, 2020, after DNA and GPS evidence linked him to the crime, prosecutors said. My babys smiling right now, that big old smile that she had. (Shes) smiling right now, Valencia Harris said the day of Moyes sentencing, according to WJLA. The wheels of justice may turn slow, but its one brutal lesson Ive had to learn...it turns slow, but justice delayed is not justice denied. We just gotta keep fighting for ours, Valencia Harris said, the outlet reported. Woman vanished 4 years ago, GA cops say. Now a mom and daughter charged with murder Man tells the FBI he raped and killed a woman 44 years ago, Massachusetts officials say Baby girl found dead in woods on Christmas Eve in 1984. Mom now charged, officials say We do not co-parent with the government read signs raised by the self-dubbed happy warriors of Moms for Liberty, a 2-year-old, ostensibly grassroots, nonpartisan activist group that advocates for the elusive idea of parents rights. Formed in January 2021 during a mask-panicked fury by two Floridian former school board members, depending on your perspective the group is either on a worthy mission to reclaim our schools with a Founding Fathers-like righteous fire, or they are theocratic-fascists out to censor every book they deem inappropriate for a grade-school Republican. But in the battle for Americas future, theres a bigger issue, an unchecked assumption. If the choice is between conservative parents with a political agenda or the unfeeling, intrusive power of the statehas anyone thought to ask the kids what they want? Stop the Post Office From Spying on Us From legalized abuse, to draconian treatment in the justice system, to their lack of suffrage, America loves the authoritarian mollycoddling of its children. And yet commentary on Moms for Libertyeven by its most ardent criticsrarely questions this as thoroughly as is deserved. Do we consider people under the age of 18 to be citizens entitled to inalienable rights? Both legally and culturally, the answer is not really. WHOSE KIDS ANYWAY? Moms for Liberty and their allies repeat a false dichotomy that kids are either parental property or government property. But minors are both sovereign individuals and growing people in need of help and guidance. So what does the law say about their rights? Various Supreme Court decisions have danced around an overriding category of parental rights. Prince v. Massachusetts (1944) held that [the states] authority is not nullified merely because the parent grounds his claim to control the child's course of conduct on religion or conscience. That is, parents cant justify everything simply because of religion. However, in 1971, Wisconsin V. Yoder allowed the Amish to remove their children from school after eighth grade. The reasoning was that the religious and social rights of the childrens parents superseded the states interest in continued education. The 2000 decision Troxel v. Granvillewhich involved the visitation rights of grandparents and a Washington state law that allowed non-parental people to sue for visitationsaid that the 14th Amendment protects the rights of parents to the care, custody, and control of a child. The conclusion, if not the inferred constitutional foundation, seems obvious. But what if the Granville-Troxel kids wanted to see their grandparents more often? Shouldnt something protect those childrens preferences, their rights? Homeschooling has been legal in every U.S. state since 1992, and the number of children educated outside of school grew from a few thousand in the 1970s to more than two million in 2019. I was happily, irreligiously homeschooled. But not everyone shared my experience. The Coalition for Responsible Home Education (CRHE), which self-describes as homeschool alumni who were raised in regressive systems wants to counter parental rights extremism coming from Moms for Liberty. Samantha Field, the head of government relations at CRHE, wrote in an email, Parents already have rights, and those rights are balanced with a childs right to a safe home environment. What the current Parental-Rights Extremist movement wants to accomplish strips children of their rights. And Moms for Liberty? Field says, They have learned their organizing tactics from some of the worst leaders of the far right. WHAT IN THE WORLD ARE WE DOING? Who actually uses the word rights with regards to children? Typically, its leftist or anarchist radicals, though sometimes its international human rights groups like UNICEF and Human Rights Watch. The United Nations has also backed the concept, beginning with its Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959, a fuzzy and optimistic intranational document that says children have rights to safety, food, and special protection due to their unique status. In 1989, the Convention on the Rights of the Child said that kids have rights such as free expression and privacy, albeit with potential exceptions thanks to local law and customs. Some 170 countries ratified this as of 2023. (Notably, this does not include the United States, which signed, then failed to ratify it.) This not-so-radical declaration stresses parent and child togetherness, yet still uses the word rights and implies that someone besides their own parents should consider childrens welfare. Ben Shapiro Is Helping Elon Musk Fight a War on Freedom of Speech And yet, in all 50 U.S. states, the only human beings adults are allowed to hit are their kids. Though a parents chances of being sanctioned increases if they use an object or leave a mark, common law and specific statutes accept the rightness of physical discipline. And this isnt even controversial. As of 2014, 70 percent of American of parents agree that sometimes kids need a good, hard spanking. In 2008, the Minnesota state Supreme Court declined to articulate specific rules that might hinder a fathers ability to hit his 12 year-old 36 times with a paddle. Even apparent rights for minors can be abused. Children under 18 with parental and/or judicial consent, can get married in 41 states. Far from being a freedom afforded to children, this is often a handy way to disappear the shame of a pregnant teenager, or prevent a call to the authorities about statutory rape. In the last several years, in multiple states, attempts to raise the age of consent for marriage to 18 have been impeded mostly by Republican state legislators. However, in California its (oddly enough) the American Civil Liberties Union that objects. To cite just one example, Missouri Republican state Sen. Mike Moon clarifiedafter receiving justifiable pushbackthat he was not in favor of 12-year-olds getting marriedor of child rape. In his telling, he merely relayed an anecdote about two middle schoolers getting married with parental permission four decades ago, which was fine, because, he said, Its a parents decision to make; its their right to make that choice. Some of these same politicians who are happy to allow child marriage are also happy to lessen restrictions on child labor. To some degree, I agree. We should open up work opportunities for minors. But in the interim, while they are practically property, 13-year-olds working in slaughterhouses doesnt benefit them so much as it does corporations and potentially abusive parents. Similarly, letting minors get married is not choice, its a legal loophole for parentally-pressured rape, forced pregnancy, poverty, and abuse. Furthermore, children and teens under 18 cant vote, but they can be tried as adultsaccording to the ACLU, some 250,000 kids are each year, and in two thirds of states they can be sent to adult prison. Dont Forgive Cops Whose Lies Put Innocent People in Prison In short, depending on political convenience, young Americans are seen as innocents who need to be protected from library cards and the transgender in our culture, or middle schoolers are mature enough to be tried as adults (even ones suffering from schizophrenia). We need to change this perspective, and that starts with accepting that kids are people every bit as deserving of their own civil rights. The state isnt your parent, but neither is every parent an unimpeachable good. What Moms for Liberty and their allies ignore is the fact that even moms and dads acting within the bounds of the law are not necessarily safer than strangers. Opening up voting rights would help young people gain a civil rights foothold. Certainly it could make them a demographic that could no longer be ignored by politicians. (Opponents of womens suffrage in the early 20th century argued that giving women the vote was just giving a double vote to socially dominant husbandsjust sayin.) Children are a paradox. Theyre not property, but theyre also not ready to decide everything for themselves. The answer is a radical rethinking of the balance of powers between society, parents, and children. "Parental rights and the culture war driving them will only confirm that kids never get the rights that are theirs just by virtue of being human beings. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Chicago Park District beaches and outdoor pools have officially closed, signaling the end of summer. With strong collaboration from partners and the community, the Park District hired sufficient lifeguards to safely open all pools and beaches in every neighborhood and across our 26 miles of lakefront. We must celebrate the lifesaving efforts performed by our lifeguards and the Chicago Police and Fire departments. Despite it all, too many people lost their lives to senseless drownings this summer. While our citys lakefront can be a source of enjoyment, Lake Michigan can present life-threatening hazards, even for the most experienced swimmer. Every year, and indeed just recently, we learned of tragic deaths of individuals along the shoreline who may have underestimated the risk of taking a dip in unguarded water. Advertisement According to the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project, there have been 38 deaths in Lake Michigan this year, including 16 deaths in Chicago with the vast majority occurring in nondesignated swim areas or when lifeguards are off-duty. These statistics underscore the importance of entering the water under the supervision of Park District lifeguards. These highly skilled individuals are trained to monitor beach activity, recognize and prevent dangers, and respond immediately to emergency situations in which seconds count. The Park District is accountable to taxpayers. It is essential to set strong safety requirements and measures to protect against risks of legal claims when recreation events operate on park property, especially those that may pose great risk. Each year, the Park District permits several, large-scale water events, including triathlons that operate in accordance with the districts policies which includes a safety plan. Advertisement The district has historically supported safe swimming and water-based recreation activities across the city. We also conduct water safety sessions each year, partner with public schools, and work alongside swimming and water safety advocacy organizations to ensure our community swim program curriculum meets or exceeds industry standards. It is not realistic or fiscally possible for the Park District to provide round-the-clock supervision over the shoreline. Individuals must be clear that entering the water in prohibited areas comes at great risk. Promoting unsanctioned water events that attract hundreds of people, even thousands, into unpredictable lake waters without a safety plan is irresponsible and poses great risk to event participants and public safety officials. Lets all work together to explore and expand water recreation opportunities in a responsible and safe manner. Michele Lemons, spokesperson, Chicago Park District The end of money bond On July 18, the Illinois Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Pretrial Fairness Act, ending a seven-month delay in implementation caused by frivolous lawsuits filed by states attorneys and sheriffs. As a result of the delay, people jailed across the state on unaffordable money bonds were denied the opportunity to return to their jobs, homes and communities while awaiting trial. As we celebrate the long-awaited end of money bond, 2 1/2 years after the acts initial passage, a recently released report from Loyola University reinforces the importance of the decision by highlighting the enormous financial burden wealth-based incarceration poses to poor and otherwise marginalized Illinoisans. While proponents of the old system claim that money bond incentivized people to show up to their court dates, interviews featured in the report show how judges, prosecutors and attorneys actually view money bond as a form of pretrial punishment. Others defend the use of bond as a means to satisfy court-imposed fines and fees. But the devastating effects of money bond outweigh any convenience experienced by judges and prosecutors. The report documents how money bond has been haphazardly applied across counties and is often set in amounts above what people can pay, effectively leading to pretrial jail sentences. This is alarming, considering that people accused of crimes are presumed innocent and that data shows pretrial release actually reduces crime. Despite the overwhelming evidence of how money bond harms our communities, states attorneys across Illinois have tried to thwart this effort through lawsuits and misinformation. Now, as the law goes into effect, it is still their responsibility to uphold the Pretrial Fairness Act. Failure to do so would not only harm people who are accused and their families, but also contribute to making our communities less safe in doing so. Advertisement Raine Caceres, Chicago Illinois legislatures failure Memo to columnist David Greising about his series on pensions: The Illinois governor and the Illinois legislature have no interest in rectifying the problem they caused. The state legislature stopped properly funding pensions years ago. The real number is a mystery. Reports over the past several years say our pension debt is in the billions. How many? Nobody seems to really know. Is it $150 billion or $200 billion or $250 billion or $300 billion? The question to be asked is: Why did the legislature abandon its fiduciary duty? Joseph A. Murzanski, Orland Park States pension problem The Illinois pension situation makes my blood boil. Want to make a dent in the problem? Start by eliminating the traditional defined benefit plan for all elected positions in the state. Implement a 403(b) plan in which the employee, in this case the state worker or elected official, contributes to their plan and the employer, in this case the state, provides a match up to a certain percentage. Pay as you go and be responsible for your own retirement just like in the private sector and many nonprofits. Advertisement Oh, and by the way, no automatic 3% annual compounded increase. Do people get that on a 401(k)? It may make elected office in Illinois less attractive to those looking to pad their retirements. Put this on the ballot as a constitutional amendment. Who do you know who would vote against it? Jan Peterson, Wilmette 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. Migrant children who were separated from their parents at the southern border were not informed by U.S. officials of their right to interact with family members, resulting in increased trauma from detention, according to an official report filed in court last week. According to the report, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at times separated children as young as 8 from their parents, often without informing the parties of their right to interact with each other. The report was filed Friday in the U.S. District Court for Central California by Paul Wise, a professor of child health and pediatrics at Stanford University and the court-appointed juvenile child monitor overseeing implementation of the Flores settlement agreement, a key court resolution governing detention standards for migrant minors. None of the interviewed children had visited with their parents since they were separated, including children who had been separated for 4 days. Most of the children were not aware of any protocols that would allow them to request a visit with their parents, Wise wrote in the filing. Caregivers assigned to the children were also largely unaware of the detainees visitation rights, according to the report. A CBP official told The Hill the agency uses filings like Wises to identify deficiencies for instance the lack of information on visitation rights to address specific issues in compliance with Flores. The report, concerning conditions for migrant minors in just two sectors of the border Rio Grande Valley and El Paso heightened concerns among advocates. U.S. Border Patrols continued practice of family separation as detailed in this report is deeply troubling. It confirms that CBP continues to violate childrens rights to safety and family unity, despite the traumatic and long-lasting consequences of separating children, said Gladis Molina, executive director at the Young Center for Immigrant Childrens Rights. The fact that Dr. Wises report focuses on just one part of the border gives us reason to be concerned that forced family separation is even more widespread than we know. According to the Flores settlement, minors may not be held in immigration detention for more than 72 hours in most cases, a rule that CBP largely followed for unaccompanied minors, but less so for family units. In July, 737 minors traveling as part of family units were subject to longer-than-usual detention; 697 were held for three to five days, 39 for more than five days, including 15 who were held more than 14 days. Thats a sharp increase from June, when 187 minors were held for periods longer than three days, and none for more than 14 days. Few unaccompanied children were held for long periods. No unaccompanied minors were held longer than three days in June, and five were held in July, including only one minor held more than 14 days. When the 72-hour limit is surpassed, it is almost always due to special circumstances, such as a child initially reporting that they are over 18 years old or for a protracted medical issue, Wise wrote. Children in families, however, are routinely held for more than 72 hours. Those prolonged detentions are decided on a case-by-case basis and can respond to a familys proximity to repatriation, medical care or other factors, but are not used for the purpose of prolonged separation, according to a CBP officer. Wise cited site visits to the Donna facility in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, a temporary holding facility run by CBP, where investigators found that some children had been separated from their parents. The separated children included young boys separated from fathers and young girls from mothers, an apparent violation of the terms of the Flores settlement. However, the report noted that some family separations are routine, for instance placing older teenage boys among other boys, rather than in family holding facilities. This is done so that teenage boys are not held in the same pods with large numbers of what are often, very young women, Wise wrote. Children can also be separated from their parents if officials believe the parents are a risk to the welfare of the children. Those exceptions are not clearly delineated in the settlement, and medical professionals such as Wise say forced family separation comes with intrinsic risks. The essential context for these Settlement provisions and their legal assessment is the fundamental understanding that hold a child separately while in custody is bad for children. Separating a child from a parent can be profoundly traumatic for children and can have lasting, harmful effects, he wrote. The reports recommendation on the issue was simply to stop separating children younger than 16 from their parents, or at the very least inform children, parents and caretakers of family visitation rights. Advocates say the practice has to end. There is simply no justification for routinely separating children from their parents at the border. If overcrowding is truly CBPs concern, the agency should take action to quickly process and release families together, Molina said. Children seeking safety at our border require the highest standards of care. The Biden Administration must immediately address these concerns, rather than repeating the harm of the past. But, Wise noted, family separations while in detention under the Biden administration different from the Trump administrations short-lived zero tolerance policy, which extended beyond detention. The separations observed in the [Rio Grande Valley] pertained only to the families time in custody, as parents and children were reunited upon their release from custody, Wise wrote. These separations in custody, therefore, should be distinguished from the family separations associated with the Zero Tolerance policy in 2018 in which children were separated from parents at apprehension and ultimately transferred to the Office of Refugee Resettlement, [Health and Human Services], as [unaccompanied children]. Updated at 6:58 p.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. An attendant walks past EU and China flags ahead of the EU-China High-level Economic Dialogue in Beijing BEIJING (Reuters) - China and the European Union held talks on topics including artificial intelligence and cross-border data flows on Monday in Beijing, amid disputes over an EU probe into China's electric vehicle (EV) subsidies. The talks were part of an EU-China High-level Digital Dialogue co-chaired by China's Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing and the European Commission Vice-President for Values and Transparency Vera Jourova, the first of such dialogue in three years, the European Commission said in a statement. The meeting comes as tensions between China and the EU are heightened after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced an investigation into whether to impose punitive tariffs on Chinese EVs to protect EU producers. Beijing criticised the probe as a "protectionist act" and warned it would damage economic relations. The talks on Monday covered key issues including platforms and data regulation, AI, and cross-border flow of industrial data, China and the EU said. The European Commission conveyed concerns about "difficulties faced by EU companies in China to make use of their industrial data, as a result of the application of recent legislation." The statement did not elaborate on which legislation it was referring to. China expanded its counter-espionage law in July, with wide-ranging updates including banning the transfer of any information related to national security and broadening the definition of spying. Zhang told the meeting that China welcomes companies from all over the world, including Europe, to share the development opportunities of its digital economy and achieve win-win results, the official Xinhua news agency reported. Both sides agreed to promote an open, fair and non-discriminatory environment for the development of the digital economy, Xinhua said. The two parties also discussed other topics including research and innovation, information and communication technology, and safety of products sold online. (Reporting by Ethan Wang and Ryan Woo in Beijing, Meg Shen in Hong Kong; Editing by Andrew Heavens) China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi meets with Malta's Minister of Foreign Affairs Carmelo Abela at Diaoyutai State Guesthous in Beijing BEIJING (Reuters) - China and the European Union (EU) should continue to maintain an "open attitude" and "reject protectionism", Chinese state media said on Monday, citing Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. State-backed Xinhua quoted Wang as saying that China has consistently supported the EU's strategic independence and European integration and that both sides should maintain an "open attitude, firmly support free trade, reject protectionism, and achieve the positive effects of China-EU cooperation". "China-EU cooperation outweighs differences and the two sides are partners instead of rivals," Wang was quoted as saying. Wang's remarks come days after the European Commission launched an investigation last week into whether to impose punitive tariffs to protect EU automakers against Chinese electric vehicle imports it says are benefiting from excessive state subsidies. The remarks were made during Wang's meeting with his Malta counterpart Ian Borg on Saturday, at which China and Malta have agreed to work together to promote China-European Union cooperation, Xinhua said. China hopes Malta would continue to play a positive role in development of China-EU relations, Wang said. (Reporting by Liz Lee and Shanghai newsroom; Editing by Jamie Freed and Michael Perry) China Evergrande's shares have been extremely volatile since they resumed trading on August 28. The stock tanked 25% early on Monday following news that some of its wealth management unit staff have been detained. They had slumped over 80% on August 28. A week later, they rallied by over 80% in a single day. Embattled Chinese real-estate developer Evergrande is likely keeping investors up at night the company's shares have been on a wild ride since they resumed trading on August 28 following a lengthy suspension. On Monday, shares of China Evergrande Group plunged 25% in early trade following news that police in the southern city of Shenzhen detained some staff at its wealth management unit. The authorities wrote on an official WeChat account on Saturday that they had "recently" detained staff including one identified by his family name, Du per Insider's translation. The notice did not provide further details on the number of staff members detained and the reasons for their detention. It also did not provide further details about Du. Evergrande's shares have since recovered some losses over the trading day on Monday. But they are still 63% lower than the last trading price of 1.65 Hong Kong dollars, or 21 cents apiece before a 17-month suspension since March 2022. The stock's gyration on Monday followed massive volatility since the suspension was lifted. On August 28 the first day the stock resumed trading Evergrande's shares slumped by 87%, placing it in penny stock territory. A little over a week later, on September 6, Evergrande shares rallied by 82%, thanks to the news that Beijing may introduce measures to support China's beleaguered property sector. Evergrande is worth about 8.2 billion Hong Kong dollars now a massive fall from grace from the company's heydays in 2017 when it was worth nearly 420 billion Hong Kong dollars. The developer once China's second-largest faced a liquidity crisis in 2021 that triggered broader concerns about the country's real-estate sector. The sector, along with related industries, contributes as much as 30% to the country's GDP. Evergrande had $300 billion worth of liabilities when troubles first began and saw its liabilities balloon to about $340 billion by the end of 2022. The company filed for bankruptcy protection in the US on August 17. China is trying to revive its property sector by stimulating consumer demand, but consumers are unlikely to be clamoring for new apartments amid record-high youth unemployment rate and slower economic growth, experts told Insider. China Evergrande shares on the Hong Kong Exchange were trading 1.6% lower at 62 Hong Kong cents at last check. China Evergrande and Shenzhen Nanshan District Police Bureau did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Insider. Read the original article on Business Insider When will China be ready to invade Taiwan? Perhaps never. But Xi Jinping is talking a lot about war, and a huge military and naval buildup is underway. Its definitely something to think about. One limitation on Xi is that an attack across the Taiwan Strait might well be seen by China itself as bringing a recalcitrant province to heel, but in the Western world it would be seen rather differently. It is likely that at least some supplies of raw materials into the Chinese economy would be cut off if it does happen. Possibly the most vital of these would be the iron ore with which China is building itself. Constructing version 1.0 of a modern society requires vast amounts of iron and steel. Our own situation, where building something new usually means tearing down something else first, produces a lot of steel scrap. This is why the recent Tata and Port Talbot issue in Wales is being resolved with 500 million to build scrap reprocessing furnaces, rather than ones to make new steel. This is why Nucor, Americans largest steel company, is mainly engaged in reprocessing the scrap from taking down the last version of society to make the next. In the West we mostly do not need to make new, we can be green and reprocess old. But building for the first time, as China very often is, cannot be done that way. Therefore China is reliant upon imports of iron ore: thats the only way it can continue to develop. The imports come mainly from Australia, and a war over Taiwan would interdict that. Currently there are, quite literally, mountains of iron oxide in the Pilbara and other parts of Western Australia that get shipped off to make Chinas new cities. The likelihood is that would stop upon hostilities. So, China will probably only feel free to initiate those hostilities when it can replace those supplies. Sadly iron ore is not just iron ore nothing in mining is ever quite that simple. Theres plenty of magnetite around China mines tens of millions of tonnes a year of it at home. The trouble with magnetite is that it requires considerable processing from rock to furnace, and there isnt enough to meet Chinas requirements. Theres another type of ore, a step further back, called taconite which is also common iron itself is very common of course. But what people actually want is hematite (or haematite) which is also known as direct shipping ore, DSO. Its not quite true, but almost, that mining this stuff is as simple as scooping it into a railroad car and sending it off. This is also whats available in the hundreds of millions of tonnes quantities necessary to build that new China. Well, its currently available as long as those Australian mines keep shipping. Even in Australia theres not quite enough: one Chinese company also mines magnetite in that country. So, if China invades Taiwan itll lose at least for a time, until bruised egos give way to money again access to those Australian iron ores. But if irons that common around the world then possibly it can be purchased from elsewhere? There is substantial mining of hematite in Brazil but simply not enough to feed those furnaces. Nor is it feasible to ramp up supplies from there. But there is one other source. The last last known at least vast hematite deposit is in Guinea in West Africa. This is like those vast Australian deposits. Shovel the mountains into the rail cars and ship them off. Its large enough to keep China going for a time, too. The Chinese government has insisted that it wants to reduce dependence upon the Land of Kangaroos. The Chinese government has encouraged investment in that iron ore project in Guinea. The whole thing is called Simandou. Its divided into four pieces, but 1 and 2 are let to one group of companies, 3 and 4 to another. The first is a Singapore logistics company, a Chinese miner and the government of Guinea. The second is Rio Tinto, a Chinese company and the government again. The involvement of the logistics company is important. Thats because this type of iron ore mining is a lot less about mining than it is about transporting the stuff, which means building a railway to get it to the coast and a harbour to get it aboard ships to China. So the opening of Simandou depends on how quickly 600km of railroad line can be built, with port facilities at the end. Progress on the project was delayed for many years by accusations and counter-accusations of corruption, and changes of government in Guinea. The most recent government change was a military coup in 2021. Everything stopped again for a year was stopped for a year. The more cynical observers (me) put this down to the colonels deciding how many Rolexes everyone should get. This is West Africa. But now theres a declaration from the new government: Simandou will be producing by March 2025, with the railroad and port ready by the end of 2024. I would say: not a chance. If the project does meet that timescale itll fall apart. As with all engineering you can get it fast, cheap, good pick any two. The whispering, perhaps muttering, around the industry is that 2028 looks like a better date for something that could work reliably for the desired decades. It could be, of course, that cheap doesnt matter when theres military glory to be had. Xi Jinping is an old man and those with political power do have that disturbing habit of wanting to do something famous before they pop off themselves. Good sense and the lives of others arent fully part of that calculation before the long good night. Some China watchers, too, think that Xi may need a war soon in order to unite the country and stand off internal forces which are possibly plotting to oust him. But China would find it very troublesome to invade Taiwan without a replacement iron ore supply. That can really only come from this project in Guinea. Which might, maybe, start shipping in 2025 if cost truly isnt a worry but later is more likely. Now, because Im a realist, not a cynic, what I would not be surprised to see is a substantial spend on Rolexes in the Taiwanese military budget. This is West Africa after all. However things play out, its true to say that Taiwan will be a lot less safe as and when Simandou ore starts to ship. Those who are interested in Taiwan, whether thats because its a righteous democracy or because it makes much of the worlds supply of microchips (often making big money for designers such as UK-based Arm as it does so) such people and their navies, air forces and marines might do well to keep an eye on events in Guinea and specifically the Simandou project. Tim Worstall is a former metals trader Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer. The Republic of the Philippines Navy ship BRP Sierra Madre has a long history, and though it was originally built in 1944, it still serves a very important strategic purpose for the Philippines : Keeping China away from its territorial waters. BRP Sierra Madre actually began its life as an American tank landing craft during World War II. Constructed in Indiana by the Missouri Valley Bridge & Iron Company, it was originally christened the USS Harnett County. The Harnett County served with the United States through World War II and participated in landings at Eniwetok, Okinawa and Guam. It was recommissioned in 1966 and sent to service in the Vietnam War, where it was used as a floating helicopter base in the Mekong River Delta . After two wars, nine battle stars and three Navy Unit Commendations, it was transferred to the Republic of South Vietnam. Renamed the RVNS My Tho, the ship served in the South Vietnamese Navy until Saigon fell to North Vietnam in 1975. Refugees packed the ship after the fall of South Vietnams capital. It met up with other fleeing South Vietnamese ships until they formed a flotilla at sea and sailed for the Philippines Subic Bay. The Philippines then took possession of My Tho and other former South Vietnamese ships in the bay. Through the 1990s, the Philippines operated the ship as the BRP Sierra Madre, using it as an amphibious transport. Then, in 1999, the Philippine Navy ran Sierra Madre aground on the Second Thomas Shoal , an atoll in the Spratly Islands of the South China Sea. The Philippines wanted the ship and its complement of Marines there to back up its territorial claim to the islands. Ever since, a detachment of Filipino Marines has maintained a force aboard the ship. As China began pressing its own claims to the islands, the two nations have sparred over the tiny atoll and the Sierra Madre. In 2014, the Chinese coast guard began harassing ships bound to resupply the Sierra Madre and its contingent of Marines. A de facto blockade was set up, and the Philippines had to either evade the blockading ships or resupply its Marines by air. Chinese efforts to disrupt the Sierra Madres mission have only intensified since. In February 2023, the Chinese Coast Guard began using military lasers to blind the Filipino crew. In August of 2023, the Chinese began firing water cannons at Philippines Coast Guard ships on resupply missions. In response, Philippines President Bongbong Marcos expanded the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, the island nations defense agreement with the United States. That hasnt dissuaded any Chinese aggression. In September 2023, the Chinese coast guard and ships from Chinas maritime militia attempted to block Philippine resupply missions to Sierra Madre on two separate occasions. Manila is considering building hardened facilities on the shoal, which is also known as Ayungin Shoal. It would be a significant escalation of its territorial claim, especially as China has become increasingly aggressive against foreign ships in the Spratly Islands . The Philippines is not the only country contending for ownership of the islands, either. Taiwan, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Brunei all claim ownership of the chain, and Brunei is the only country that doesnt occupy one or more of the islands many landmasses, shoals, and atolls. (Reuters) - Moscow's and Beijing's top diplomats noted "closeness" in their positions on Washington's "anti-Russian and anti-Chinese" stance and agreed any bid to resolve the Ukraine crisis must include Moscow, Russia's foreign ministry said early on Tuesday. Wang Yi, Chinese leader Xi Jinping's point man for international dealings, is in Moscow for several days of security and foreign policy talks with Russian officials. He arrived in Moscow directly from hours of talks in Malta with White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan that the White House said on Sunday were "candid" and "constructive." Russia's foreign ministry said in a Telegram statement after the Moscow talks that "the closeness of the positions of the parties regarding U.S. actions in the international arena, including those of an anti-Russian and anti-Chinese nature, was noted." The ministry added that Wang briefed Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov about "the content of negotiations" with Sullivan. The U.S. and its allies have often said they are concerned about an increasing alignment between China and Russia, which firmed after Moscow sent thousands of troops to Ukraine in 2022, in what Washington and Kyiv say was an unprovoked act of aggression. While not committing to defend each other's country with military support and with President Vladimir Putin leaning on Xi far more than China does on Russia, supplying Chinese demand for oil and gas, the two countries have said they drew closer to counterbalance the perceived U.S. domination of global affairs. Wang's talks with Lavrov included preparations for Russia's participation in the third Belt and Road Forum in Beijing in October, the Russian ministry said, without confirming whether Putin will attend. "The negotiations took place in the trusting and constructive manner inherent in the Russian-Chinese dialogue," the ministry said. It added that Lavrov and Wang talked "in detail" about Ukraine, "noting the futility of attempts to resolve the crisis without taking into account the interests and especially without the participation of Russia." The war in Ukraine has claimed the lives of thousands of people, displaced millions, turned cities into rubble and has no end in sight. Wang will hold "strategic security" talks later on Tuesday with Nikolai Patrushev, the secretary of Russia's Security Council, Russia's Interfax reported, before holding trilateral talks with Mongolian officials. (Reporting by Ron Popeski and Lidia Kelly; Writing by Lidia Kelly; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien) (Bloomberg) -- China flew a record number of warplanes around Taiwan, in an apparent show of displeasure over visits by a pair of American officials. Most Read from Bloomberg Taiwan said it detected 103 Peoples Liberation Army warplanes and nine ships in its vicinity in the 24 hours to early Monday, adding this posed posed serious challenges to security across the strait and in the region. The number of aircraft was the most in Bloomberg-compiled data going back three years. Forty of the planes crossed the median line in the Taiwan Strait, the second time in less than a week that China has sent that many aircraft across the line the US drew in 1954. The sorties wear down Taiwans much smaller military and cut the time that it has to react to any attack. While China usually doesnt give reasons for conducting military activity around the island of 23 million people it has pledged to someday control, bigger sorties tend to coincide with meetings between foreign and Taiwanese officials. The US has criticized China for holding such exercises, calling them provocative. Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs is leading a delegation thats visiting until Wednesday, a trip will include a meeting with President Tsai Ing-wen . Hobbs plans to hold talks with top economic and trade officials, and the business community. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. has said it plans to spend $40 billion to build capacity in Arizona, though in July the chipmaker said production at a planned facility would be postponed from late 2024 until 2025 due to challenges including a shortage of skilled workers and expenses running higher than in Taiwan. Also visiting this week is Laurie Locascio, under secretary of commerce for standards and technology. When she met Tsai on Monday, the president said she hoped Taiwan and the US would have more exchanges on cybersecurity issues. Locascios visit is likely a follow-up to a rare gathering in the US in April when US and Taiwanese security officials discussed how companies from the island could adopt key US defense supply chain standards. French Senator Olivier Cadic is also traveling to Taiwan, with plans to meet Vice Premier Cheng Wen-tsan and Wellington Koo, secretary-general of the National Security Council. See: US, Chinese Officials Meet in Malta to Keep Channels Open In a sign of the prominence Taiwans status plays in tensions between the US and China, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi used a meeting in Malta with National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan over the weekend to reiterate that Beijing considers the island a red line in the relationship. The two sides appeared to have made their usual points on Taiwan, though Sullivan emphasized that the provision of arms or foreign military assistance to Taipei doesnt mean the US supports Taiwanese independence or views the island as a sovereign nation, according to an administration official. Last week, China announced it was sanctioning Northrop Grumman Corp. and a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin Corp. for supplying arms to Taiwan. Neither company has any activities to sanction in China so the move is mostly symbolic. In August, a US agency announced a $500 million sale of equipment for F-16 fighters that will be supplied by Lockheed Martin. The same agency announced in December that Northrop Grumman would supply Taiwan with a system to deploy anti-tank mines. Taiwan warned last week that China will ratchet up the military pressure it has been applying in recent years, a squeeze thats largely borne out of frustration that Tsais government wont acknowledge that Taiwan is part of China. More: Taiwan Warns China Pressure to Rise; PLA Sets Warship Record Major General Huang Wen-chi said Tuesday that the PLA pressure will continue and we think the pressure tomorrow will be larger than today. His comments came just after China sailed 20 warships near the island, another record. --With assistance from Kari Lindberg. (Updates with details of Tsai-Locascio meeting.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. In this photo released by Xinhua News Agency, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, right, shakes hands with U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in Malta on Sept. 16, 2023. China's top foreign policy official is heading to Russia for security talks after two days of meetings with U.S. President Joe Biden's national security advisor over the weekend in Malta. (Lian Yi/Xinhua via AP) MOSCOW (AP) China's top diplomat on Monday began several days of security consultations with Russian officials following his weekend talks with U.S. President Joe Biden's national security adviser in Malta. Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who simultaneously holds the ruling Communist Party's top foreign policy post, will be in Russia through Thursday for strategic security consultations, the Foreign Ministry said in a brief statement. Wang opened his talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov by hailing strategic cooperation between the two countries and their shared commitment to a multipolar world" and a more just world order, terms Moscow and Beijing use to describe their efforts to counterbalance the perceived U.S. domination of global affairs. China and Russia, as leading global powers and permanent members of the U.N. Security Council, bear special responsibility for maintaining global strategic stability and global development," Wang said. The more violent the unilateral actions of hegemony and bloc confrontation become, the more important for us to keep up with the times, show a sense of duty as great powers, and further fulfill our international obligations. He stressed that Russia-China cooperation isn't directed against anyone and isn't influenced by any other countries. Lavrov emphasized the importance of Russian-Chinese cooperation for ensuring justice in world affairs, for ensuring a balance of interests in the processes that are developing in a variety of directions. He noted that Russia and China will coordinate their efforts during this week's U.N. General Assembly and other international forums. The U.S. and China are at odds over Russia's military action in Ukraine. China has refrained from taking sides in the conflict, saying that while a country's territory must be respected, the West needs to consider Russia's security concerns about NATO expansion. It has accused the U.S. of prolonging the fighting by providing arms to Ukraine, weaponry that the U.S. says Kyiv needs to fight back against Russia. Wang's trip to Moscow comes a day after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un left Russia following a six-day visit that included talks with President Vladimir Putin at a far eastern spaceport, visits to aircraft plants and inspections of nuclear-capable strategic bombers and an advanced warship. Kim's trop fueled Western concerns about an arms alliance that could boost Russian arsenals for fighting in Ukraine. China and Russia have grown closer as relations with the West have deteriorated for both. China is looking for support as it seeks to reshape the U.S.-led international order into one that is more accommodating to its approach. Last month, it helped engineer an expansion of the BRICS partnership, which invited six more countries to join what has been a five-nation bloc that includes China and Russia. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning called Wang's visit to Russia a routine one to hold in-depth talks on major strategic security interests. Wang discussed Ukraine in his weekend meetings with U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan. Both sides described the talks as candid, substantive and constructive as they try to stabilize their rocky relationship and manage differences over security, trade, technology and human rights. Specifics of their talks were not released. Wang stepped down as foreign minister at the end of last year, taking on the more senior position of Communist Party foreign affairs chief, but was called back to the post in July after his successor, Qin Gang, disappeared from public view. It's unclear what happened to Qin, but he may have fallen out of favor with the leadership. More recently, China's defense minister, Li Shangfu, also has not been seen in about three weeks, sparking speculation about his fate. It's unusual for two sitting Cabinet members to disappear from sight, although it doesn't appear to signal any obvious change in defense or foreign policy. The Chinese government has said nothing about Li's disappearance. Asked about it on Monday, Mao, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said she was not aware of the situation. ___ More of APs Asia-Pacific coverage is available at https://apnews.com/hub/asia-pacific Investigators with Chicagos inspector general seized computers from the treasurers City Hall offices last week as part of an investigation into allegations of misconduct against Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin, the Tribune has learned. The move by Inspector General Deborah Witzburgs staff comes after the release late last month of a 2020 letter that laid out a series of accusations by two aides Conyears-Ervin had fired who said the treasurer misused taxpayer resources and abused the powers of her office. Advertisement It also comes after the head of the Chicago Board of Ethics last week said the agency referred the letter to the inspector generals office years ago but said the board couldnt do more unless it receives detailed findings from the IG. Witzburg declined to comment. While the seizure of the computers on Wednesday is notable, its not clear the investigative moves relate to the accusations laid out in the letter or a different set of issues. Advertisement [ Chicago treasurer accused of misconduct and ethical violations in letter city kept secret for years ] Through a spokeswoman, Conyears-Ervin on Monday declined to address specific questions about the inspector generals actions but promised in a statement to cooperate with the investigation. Treasurer Conyears-Ervin is proud to run an office that places the ethical stewardship of taxpayer dollars at the center of everything it does, the statement said. While the allegations in question misrepresent the culture and work of both the Treasurer and the many hard working members of her team, the Treasurer takes any questions around misconduct with grave seriousness, and is looking forward to sharing her perspective on them with Ms. Witzburgs team. A former state representative who earlier this year was reelected to a second term as city treasurer, Conyears-Ervin has said she is considering a run for Congress to replace U.S. Rep. Danny Davis. She planned to announce her run earlier this month but has postponed her plans amid the controversy. Questions about Conyears-Ervins conduct in office came to light after a yearslong battle for records by the Tribune, which first reported in 2020 that Conyears-Ervin fired four top aides and said it was part of her decision to take the office in a new direction. Following the firings, a lawyer for two of the women who were fired sent the head of the citys Law Department and the Board of Ethics the blistering four-page letter in December 2020. The letter claimed Conyears-Ervin used government workers for her own personal use, including to plan her daughters birthday party and to be her personal bodyguard, in addition to the general accusation that she repeatedly misused taxpayer resources and pressured public employees to help her political allies. It also alleged the treasurer, who oversees city investments, tried to force BMO Harris one of the banks where city money is deposited to issue a mortgage tied to the building that houses the aldermanic office for Conyears-Ervins husband, Ald. Jason Ervin, 28th. BMO officials have declined to comment. Conyears-Ervin threatened retaliation against employees who raised concerns about the conduct and other alleged misdeeds and told employees they should not care if her plans are illegal since the only way they could lose their jobs is if she fires them, the letter stated. Under Mayor Lori Lightfoot, the city paid $100,000 to settle the claims by Tiffany Harper, who had worked as Conyears-Ervins chief of staff, and Ashley Evans, the treasurers former chief impact officer. Advertisement [ Chicago Ethics Board defends handling of Melissa Conyears-Ervin allegations, referred case to inspector general ] But Lightfoots administration refused to release the letter despite numerous requests by the Tribune and a binding opinion by the attorney generals office that it should be released. Mayor Brandon Johnson dropped the citys legal fight and released the letter. The head of the Chicago Board of Ethics said last week that the board referred the case to the citys inspector generals office. The Board of Ethics is hamstrung by a lack of investigative power and instead must rely on the IGs office, which generally operates in secrecy until it releases quarterly reports. It has been almost three years since the letter was sent to the IG, which has not disclosed any findings. Conyears-Ervin dismissed Harper, Evans and two other workers as part of what she called an office shake-up. Harper and Evans alleged their firings violated the Illinois whistleblower act, federal laws, and a city ordinance, and sent the letter to the city demanding reinstatement. The letter disputed Conyears-Ervins claim she fired the workers because she had a different vision for the treasurers office. The reason given for firing them was a pretext as there was no change in administration (the Treasurer took office over a year prior) and neither Ms. Evans nor Ms. Harper had done anything remotely justifying their termination, the letter said. Advertisement One of the complaints detailed in the letter was staffers concern about Conyears-Ervins decision to hire an ex-Chicago police officer as her private security guard and driver. [ AG: City of Chicago improperly withheld letter from lawyer about Treasurers office alleged misconduct ] This employee does not provide any services to the office and does not even come into the office. Rather he serves as a private armed security guard to the Treasurer and is her driver, the letter said. The letter also took issue with Conyears-Ervin for hiring Gina Zuccaro to be an administrative assistant, a post Zuccaro was not qualified for, according to the letter. Zuccaro is a political ally of both Conyears-Ervin and her husband, and she has filed objections to block rival candidates from appearing on the ballot against Jason Ervin. Zuccaro also ran for state representative in 2020, losing to Jawaharial Williams, who is the son of Ald. Walter Burnett Jr., 27th. In the letter, the two former employees alleged that rather than fulfilling the duties of that role full time, the treasurer used Zuccaro for personal services like running errands, planning her daughters birthday party, grocery shopping and the like. The Treasurer also used city resources to support Ms. Zuccaros run for the Illinois House of Representatives seat by allowing her to campaign on city time, the letter stated. This misuse of hiring to obtain personal services and favor her allies is a pervasive problem, extending well past these two employees to numerous other employees and contractors. The two former aides also alleged Conyears-Ervin made contentious demands of city contractors to benefit the Treasurers friends and political supporters. Advertisement One example was the Treasurers attempts to force BMO Harris, one of the citys depository institutions and securities brokers, to give a mortgage to a third party on a building in which her husband maintains his aldermanic office, the letter stated. To use the Treasurers words, the instruction was to leverage the citys banking relationship (meaning the fact that the city maintains hundreds of millions of dollars in deposits) to get a mortgage on the building. gpratt@chicagotribune.com BEIJING (Reuters) -China's top diplomat, Wang Yi, begins on Monday a four-day trip to Russia during which both nations are expected to pledge deeper mutual political trust, readying for a possible landmark visit by President Vladimir Putin to Beijing in October. Wang, who heads the foreign ministry as well as the ruling Communist Party's foreign affairs office, will meet Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev for annual security talks, the Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement. The veteran diplomat's talks with counterpart Sergei Lavrov will cover a "wide range of issues" including "contacts at higher and the highest levels," the Russian foreign ministry said last week. Wang is expected to lay the groundwork for Putin's visit to the Chinese capital for the third Belt and Road Forum after an invitation by President Xi Jinping during a high-profile visit to Moscow in March. Putin attended China's first two Belt and Road Forums in 2017 and 2019. But he is not known to have travelled abroad since the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant against him on grounds of illegally deporting hundreds of children from Ukraine. On Sept. 1, Putin said he expected to meet Xi soon, but did not explicitly confirm that he would travel to China again. The warrant, issued just days before Xi visited Russia, obligates the court's 123 member states to arrest Putin and transfer him to the Hague for trial if he enters their territory. However, China is not a party to the Rome Statute that led to the establishment of the ICC in 2002. The visit will also see a detailed exchange of views on issues including Ukraine, ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said last week. Wang last visited Russia in February on the eve of the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, alarming the United States, which accused the two nations at the time of sharing a vision in which "borders could be redrawn by force". Ahead of this week's visit, Wang travelled to Malta for hours of "constructive" talks with White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan. The weekend talks were the latest in a series of high-level meetings between U.S. and Chinese officials that could lay the foundation for a meeting this year between Xi and U.S. President Joe Biden. (Reporting by Ryan Woo; Additional reporting by Lidia Kelly; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) The Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, will visit Russia on Sept. 18 following a meeting with US officials in Washington on Sept. 17, Reuters reported on Sept. 17. Earlier this weekend, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met with Foreign Minister Yi to discuss the situation between China and Taiwan as well as Russia's war in Ukraine. The White House announced that the two discussed "key issues in the U.S.-China bilateral relationship, global and regional security issues, Russias war against Ukraine, and cross-Strait issues, among other topics." US and Chinese officials remain "committed to maintain this strategic channel of communication and to pursue additional high-level engagement and consultations in key areas between the United States and the Peoples Republic of China in the coming months." US officials have called on China to provide needed support to Ukraine. However, China has sent tens of thousands of shipments to Russian weapons firms since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. China has helped supply the Russian military with helicopters, drones, optical sights, and essential raw materials. According to Reuters, Foreign Minister Yi and Russian leadership will "conduct consultations on strategic security issues in Moscow. Read also: Telegraph: China arms Russias war in Ukraine Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. [Source] The management of a tourist site in China was heavily criticized on social media for purportedly discriminating against local Chinese tourists in favor of foreigners. Accusations of discrimination: Lanzhanfei, a prominent travel influencer with nearly 4 million followers on Douyin, called out the management of the Shengshi Tangcheng tourist site in Xiangyang City, Hubei province in a now-viral video. According to Lanzhanfei, the staff forced domestic visitors to give up their seats to accommodate 11 foreign tourists during a featured evening performance. A locals frustration: In the video, which has been viewed over 4 million times, Lanzhanfei expressed his frustration at paying 126 yuan (approximately $17.28) for a ticket to witness ancient Chinese-style performances, including horse riding, only to find that some seating areas were reserved exclusively for foreign guests. He also revealed that the show was postponed by seven minutes to accommodate some foreigners who arrived late. It is fine to greet your guests, he lamented. You can shut the site and postpone the show however you like, but dont humiliate me and my ticket money. More from NextShark: Texas lawmaker doubles down on attack questioning Rep. Judy Chu's loyalty to US In defense of the management: Some individuals who claimed to have attended the same performance defended the site's management, claiming that the influencer had exaggerated the situation. A local Douyin user, Duojisheying, posted a video purportedly showing a staff member offering to relocate Lanzhanfei to a different seating area with a better view and refund his ticket, an offer that Lanzhanfei declined. Duojisheying also mentioned that the show had been delayed "half of the time" for safety reasons, questioning Lanzhanfei's assertion that it was solely due to tardy foreign guests. Responding to the outrage: After drawing public backlash, the Shengshi Tangcheng site management issued a public apology on its official WeChat account. As compensation, they offered all attendees of the disrupted show a free access pass, valid for a year. Many commenters criticized the apology as insincere and felt that the offered compensation was insufficient. More from NextShark: 'Is Taiwan Not China?: Lionel Messi encounters passport mix-up at Beijing airport Enjoy this content? Read more from NextShark! Growing public outrage over video of chained woman in shed leads to investigation by Chinese authorities Daily Beast contributor insults Asian man at bar he purportedly mistook for journalist Andy Ngo In the wake of Edward Enninful stepping down as editor of British Vogue, Chioma Nnandi will become the first Black woman to lead the magazine as the head of editorial content. Deadline reported Nnadi is a native Londoner who moved to New York and began her career at Vogue as a writer in 2010. In addition, throughout her 13-year stint, she managed the American site and co-hosted The Run-Through with Vogue podcast. According to the outlet, Nnadi said, Im beyond excited and honored to have been appointed as British Vogues head of editorial content. As someone who was born and raised in London, the energy of the city its boundary-pushing style and creative scene has shaped the way I look at the world. Now, more than ever, it feels like a moment to look beyond borders while also celebrating the broad scope of what it means to be British. Im looking forward to engaging a loyal and inspired digital community that is energized by our access, point of view and storytelling. In an interview with The Guardian, Nnadi said, Is there pressure? Yeah, theres definitely pressure its Vogue. She added, It still means something to be in Vogue, it still has authority. [And theres pressure] because of Edward. He broke new ground. Its more than being part of a magazine its part of the cultural conversation. Enninful announced his departure as editor of British Vogue in July following his promotion to the new executive role of Vogues global creative and cultural advisor, per Deadline. I am so thrilled that Chioma is joining British Vogue she is a brilliant and unique talent with real vision, who will take the publication to ever greater heights, Enninful said. The news site mentioned he would also be an editorial advisor to British Vogue. According to her conversation with The Guardian, Nnadi intends to emphasize digital storytelling and keep Vogue interactive with readers. She also expects comparisons between her and her predecessor: As a Black woman, but also as a biracial woman, how I view the world is also how I see it through a lens that is influenced by my background, by where I live, and by having parents from different cultures and having to move between these cultures. Things have changed a lot. When I started out, there was one other Black person working in the building, and we both went to the same college. It wasnt the same place it is now. Obviously matters of diversity and inclusion should always be on the agenda, but it feels like more of an open conversation now, and that feels to me like progress, she said. The bridges to Crimea in Chonhar have been mined since 2014, but they were not blown up at the beginning of Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The bridge from Henichesk to Arabat Spit was partially blown up, and the bridges across the Dnipro River in Kherson and Nova Kakhovka were not mined at all. Source: Major General Andrii Sokolov, who at the beginning of the invasion was Deputy Commander of the Operational Command Pivden (South) and was in charge of the Pivden grouping of troops, in an interview with Ukrainska Pravda Details: When asked why the bridges, up to a dozen of which are in Kherson Oblast, were not blown up, in addition to the Chonhar Bridge, Sokolov said that the Russian army was most likely hindering this. Sokolov noted that all the bridges and dams are located near Chonhar, on the Melitopol front. There are no bridges with Crimea on the other front Kalanchak and Kherson and there are two land isthmuses: one to Chaplynka and the other to Kalanchak. Quote: "Why werent the bridges blown up? We know from an interview with Ivan Sestryvatovskyi, a soldier from the 137th Battalion, that there were attempts to blow them up. But you have to understand that the enemy realises the importance of these bridges and crossings, and is also taking measures. From my experience, I can say that bridges should be blown up not when the enemy is standing in front of them, but before they approach, when they have no firepower to hit the bridges. Then we can hope that the task will be completed 100%. And when the enemy is already in front of the bridge, they fire at the bridge itself and use sabotage groups to make an impact. In Henichesk, on the Arabat Spit, the bridge was blown up. Not completely, but it was blown up. There, a sailor of the 137th Battalion had to perform a task at the cost of his life." Details: Sokolov explained that the defender was unable to move away from the bridge in Henichesk because the Russians were already firing, trying to prevent the bridge from being blown up. He was killed because the Russians were attacking the area, and "everything blew up at once". He added that everything on the border with the Autonomous Republic of Crimea was equipped in 2014 and maintained as it was. That is, the minefields in Chonhar and Henichesk have not been removed: "On the border itself, the barriers and minefields were set up as they were in 2014, and everything remained the same." But in 2014, other bridges on the North Crimean and Kakhovka main canals were also mined. However, a mined bridge on peaceful territory cannot be left unattended. Since 2015, the number of troops has been decreasing and over time, some of the facilities were demined because there was no one to maintain them. Quote: "All the ammunition from there was in a warehouse in Chaplynka. And when the great war began, I ordered that they urgently receive ammunition and blow up these bridges across the canals. We managed to blow up some bridges, and the Russians had already reached some others." Details: As for the minefields in the territory where there was no military action prior to 2022, they were marked with both a special tape and pointers on the terrain. As Sokolov said, not only residents, but also the Russians knew about these minefields. That is why the Russian troops fired at them on the night of the invasion. Asphalted roads were not mined, because the border traffic with Crimea was still active there, and people and goods travelled along them. Sokolov said that "they were prepared, they carried explosives; the explosive substance was set in Chaplynka, mining was planned, but it did not happen, because the order for additional mining was not received" from the Russian leadership. As for whether the Antonivka and Nova Kakhovka bridges should have been blown up after the retreat of the 59th brigade from Oleshky, Sokolov only replied that he could not influence it. Quote: "The Dnipro River is of strategic importance. There should have been a strategic line of defence there, and some other military formation should have been responsible for it. Because it would be wrong to hope that our grouping of troops with the existing forces would be able to hold the enemy in Kherson Oblast, and then to be responsible for ensuring that they do not cross to the other bank of Dnipro. In general, a strategic defence line shouldve been created there, at least in certain areas near the Antonivka bridge and the Nova Kakhovka dam without counting on our small group of forces. This shouldve been done in good time, before the war. Why was this not done? It's hard for me to say. The stabilisation operation stipulated that I was responsible for that side, because there is also Kherson Oblast. But the enemy started a war. And the defence operation foresaw it was no longer my territory. My territory passed along the left bank of Dnipro. I didn't have the assets and personnel needed even for a stabilisation operation, let alone for defence." Details: Sokolov concluded that "the bridges across Dnipro were not mined." He does not know who was supposed to take care of this on the right (western) bank of Kherson Oblast. "I could not have any influence on the process of mining bridges in Kherson, because I did not even have the material to mine them. And I also needed equipment, time and people who would carry out the mining," said Sokolov, who on 24 February 2022, commanded the "South" troop group. 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! Planning for two important sewer projects in the City of Carlsbad moved forward after the City Council approved nearly $2 million in grant money from the State of New Mexico. The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) granted $1 million for the city to plan, design and equip a second sewer wet well at the primary sewer lift station, wrote Ivan Abell, City of Carlsbad utilities director in a memorandum to City Council. NMED awarded a $910,000 grant for a sewer system on National Parks Highway south of Carlsbad. More: National Parks Highway sewer tops $168M Carlsbad capital spending wish list for 2025 The City of Carlsbad ranked both projects as top priorities for an infrastructure capital improvement plan (ICIP) for 2025 through 2029. The Carlsbad City Council Aug. 8 approved the listing of more than 50 municipal projects as part of the ICIP, including the two sewer projects. The ICIP helps set priorities in obtaining state funds for infrastructure projects, according to the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration (NMDFA). Carlsbad Director of Municipal Services and Capital Programs Angie Barrios Testa (left) and other attendees listen to speakers at the Eddy County Literacy Conversation, March 6, 2023 at the Walter Gerrells Performing Arts Center in Carlsbad. City of Carlsbad Director of Municipal Services and Capital Projects Angie Barrios-Testa said the National Parks Highway sewer was the No. 1 priority project and the well for the primary sewer lift station was No. 5 on the ICIP list. These projects are large multi-year, which are planned in phases. The City plans to keep them on the list until all the funding is secured and all of the phases are complete, she said. Per the ICIP, the City of Carlsbad needed $3.6 million to plan and construct a sewer line on National Parks Highway. The City received $500,000 in 2020 Capital Outlay funds from the New Mexico Legislature and the 2023 NMED grant puts a closer goal for city officials. The City of Carlsbad estimates construction costs for the wet well at the primary sewer lift station at $2 million. More: City of Carlsbad top 3 wishes for capital spending. Here is what we know for 2025-2029 The City secured $500,000 in funds for the project for 2025 and the NMED grant of $1 million places the project closer to the money needed for the planning and construction. Abell said the new well was needed as the lift station is aging. The facility that is here was built in 2001, it has served the city very well. All the sewer (water) that comes in from the northside of town and the southside of town all come together at this location (lower Tansill Dam) and is gathered there and pumped out to the wastewater treatment plant, he said. The village of River Hills plans to replace this sewer pump lift station for $228,080. Each of the 20 homes served by the lift station will be billed $11,404 to pay for its replacement. Wastewater lift stations were designed to move wastewater from lower elevations to higher elevations through pipes, according to an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website. A wet-well or receiving well is often equipped with a screen removes coarse materials from sewage, per the EPA. I absolutely like to receive funding early, this just speeds up the process of starting critical projects such as these, Barrios-Testa said. The awards are substantial for capital outlay funding and thus I believe the City can definitely get a plan, design, and construction for a considerable phase of the projects, she said. More: City of Carlsbad starts input process on long-term capital project spending plan Barrios-Testa said the state funds could be potential matching funds for federal opportunities. Abell said the state grants do not need matching funds from the City of Carlsbad. Mike Smith can be reached at 575-628-5546 or by email at MSmith@currentargus.com or @ArgusMichae on X formerly known as Twitter. This article originally appeared on Carlsbad Current-Argus: Carlsbad receives nearly $2 million for two priority sewer projects An attorney for former Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark attempted Monday to convince a judge to move Clarks Georgia charges to federal court, arguing that his attempt to help overturn the states 2020 presidential election results was part of Clarks job duties. U.S. District Judge Steve Jones held a hearing in Atlanta regarding whether to move Clarks charges after he was indicted alongside former President Trump and 17 others last month in a sprawling racketeering indictment. They have all pleaded not guilty. The legal battle largely centers on whether Clark, who oversaw the Justice Departments environmental division and, in an acting capacity, the civil division, was acting within the scope of his duties when he sought to send a letter to Georgia officials raising baseless concerns of mass election fraud. Prosecutors have alleged Clark knew the letter included a false statement, also claiming that Clarks superiors at the Justice Department told him it was a lie and that neither he nor the department had authority to make the fraud claims. What Im saying is, lawyers can disagree about that without being put in prison, Harry MacDougald, Clarks attorney, said at the hearing, according to The Associated Press. MacDougald also reportedly said the Justice Department had already been examining the fraud claims prior to Clarks involvement in the issue. The Rubicon had already been crossed, MacDougald said, the AP reported. Court filings show Fulton County District Attorney Fani Williss (D) office subpoenaed for the hearing Jody Hunt, who ran the Justice Departments civil rights division prior to Clark. Prosecutors have pushed back on Clarks assertion that he was acting within the scope of his job duties, which is one of the necessary criteria for him to move his charges. Hunt testified that the civil division had no role in investigating election interference or fraud, according to the AP. If successful, the move would enable Clark to attempt to dismiss his charges by asserting immunity. His case would also be overseen by a federal judge, and the jury pool would be drawn from a northern Georgia area less heavily Democratic than Fulton County. Jones previously rejected Trump White House chief of staff Mark Meadowss attempt to move his own charges after finding the allegations against him were political activities outside of his White House responsibilities. Meadows is now appealing. Jones has said he will consider each defendants request independently, but the Meadows ruling could suggest an uphill battle for Clark and three other defendants making similar demands, who will have their hearing Wednesday. Meadows unexpectedly took the stand at his hearing, but Clark waived his appearance Monday, court filings show. Clark did, however, sign a 12-page affidavit ahead of the hearing. But the judge on Monday refused to consider it after prosecutors raised concerns about being able to cross-examine Clarks claims, according to the AP. Clarks attorneys also submitted an affidavit from Edwin Meese, attorney general under former President Reagan, who supported the notion that Clarks letter efforts were part of his job and constitutionally protected. The prosecution of the President and an [assistant attorney general] is a major affront to federal supremacy never before seen in the history of our country, Meese wrote. Updated at 3:58 p.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. NEW CITY At least 31 people, including children, were discovered crammed into a 1,500-square-foot home in Clarkstown, local officials announced Monday. The residents were all recent migrants from Ecuador who had crossed at the southern border only recently. Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann likened the site to a flophouse. "This is a national security crisis and a humanitarian crisis," Hoehmann said as he explained the dangerous conditions in the home revealed by building code and law enforcement officers. "Children residing in the garage, attic, unfinished basement," Hoehmann said. "Mattress upon mattress." 295 New Hempstead Road in New City, where 31 migrants, including children, were recently discovered in the 1,500-square-foot home Sept. 18, 2023 in New City. Photos showed cooking appliances in rooms throughout the house, including a microwave with a refrigerator balanced on top near beds; extension cords strewn about; and sheets hung up to divide rooms. Tenants told officials more were coming, Hoehmann said, with "more than 10 illegal immigrants arriving this week." It appeared to be, the supervisor added, part of some sort of organized chain of migrant housing. But, Hoehmann said, law enforcement didn't yet know who was behind it. NYC mayor calls accusations 'lies' The speculation, courtesy of Rockland County Executive Ed Day and U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler, fellow Republicans: That New York City Mayor Eric Adams was somehow involved. Day called it "human trafficking." "We're going to get to the bottom of who is behind this," Lawler said. "If it is found that Eric Adams is involved," he said, there must be consequences. Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann, along with County Executive Ed Day, Congressman Michael Lawler and local Clarkstown officials host an emergency press conference after 31 migrants, including children, were recently discovered in a 1,500-square-foot home in Clarkstown, Sept. 18, 2023 in New City. Day said the movement of people was "something being set up by design ... somebody's getting rich off of it." When asked if they had any proof that the people in the house were connected with Adams, the New York City shelter system or had interfaced with NYC government programs in any way, they said they did not. Adams' office called that "lies." Since last spring, New York City has provided care and shelter to more than 110,000 people seeking asylum sheltering almost all of those whove arrived in New York State despite covering just 0.05 percent of the states land," a spokesperson for the Adams administration said. "In the absence of state and federal decompression strategies to address this national issue, New York City has been forced to undertake our own decompression strategy." The spokesperson added: "Instead of concocting nonsensical lies and spewing vicious hate at people pursuing the American Dream, all our elected officials should act like the leaders they claim to be and do their part to manage this crisis affecting all New Yorkers. Some of the residents told authorities they had come to Texas, then Manhattan, then Queens and then Rockland. Hoehmann said they didn't have any information about how they ended up in those places. CHECK OUT OUR PODCAST: The D&C bring you "City on Fire," about life in the streets of Rochester during the summer, by reporter Rob Bell. Listen below or on your podcast platform of choice. Hoehmann said interviews with the people living in the house didn't turn up any direct links to U.S. government entities; those in Texas, where Gov. Greg Abbott has sent migrants to New York City and other Democrat-controlled localities; or New York City government officials or programs. Lawler said that blame for a broken immigration system lays at the feet of the Biden administration and blasted New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, all Democrats, for feeding a crisis. Day said he would call on the state attorney general to investigate. State Sen. Bill Weber said he was calling for a special session of the Legislature to address the immigration crisis and had wanted the state Senate's Investigations and Government Operations Committee to investigate how $1 billion in funding for the crisis had been spent. How conditions were discovered Hoehmann said that the town has long cracked down on illegal conversions of houses and inspects houses registered as landlord-owned periodically. "In the town of Clarkstown, we enforce our codes." The path to the three-bedroom Cape Cod-style home at 295 New Hempstead Road in New City was multi-pronged. Asylum seekers: NY blasts NYC handling of migrant crisis as feud escalates over costs, shelter sites Two individuals were stopped by Clarkstown police officers for rummaging through a clothing dropoff bin near the New City Bowl. The officers said they were told by the two that they had recently come here and were in need of clothing. They apparently provided the New Hempstead Road address. Meanwhile, someone provided an anonymous tip, which Hoehmann said can be done via the town website or the 311 app. County Executive Ed Day, along with local Clarkstown officials, speaks at an emergency press conference after 31 migrants, including children, were recently discovered in a 1,500-square-foot home in Clarkstown, Sept. 18, 2023 in New City. The home was purchased last year by Sholamei Koppel of Monsey, according to town records. He did not register with the mandatory landlord registry, Hoehmann said. Hoehmann said the town had only reached Koppel that day, and he was "not forthcoming." The town was expected in state Supreme Court in Rockland County today to commence eviction procedures. Officials could not provide information on where the people in the house would go. Tension over immigration builds Rockland County is already embroiled in court cases with New York City over a plan that was revealed in May to place migrants in an Orangeburg hotel, while providing social services. Several counties, including Rockland, have blocked such relocations by the city, while other localities have worked with the shelter plan. Even before Adams' "decompression" plan to place migrants outside NYC, Day and Lawler had warned of immigration weighing on Rockland. In March, they held a press conference pointing to the strain on schools and local nonprofits as immigration to the region increased. The county has, over several years, seen an increase in immigration in certain areas. Hoehmann warned: "This is coming to a local town near you." Nancy Cutler covers People & Policy for lohud.com and the USA Today Network New York. Reach her at ncutler@lohud.com; follow her at @nancyrockland on Twitter (X), Instagram and Threads. This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Migrants in Rockland house blamed on NYC Mayor Eric Adams no proof CLEAR LAKE St. Mary's Catholic Church is hosting its annual fall festival on Sunday, Oct. 1 at St. Mary's Parish Hall. A traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The cost is $12 for adults and children 12-and-over and $6 for ages 4-11. Children 3-and-under are free. There will also be a bake sale, paddle-wheel game and raffles. For more information, contact St. Mary's Parish at 605-874-2080. This article originally appeared on Watertown Public Opinion: St. Mary's Catholic Church of Clear Lake to hold Fall Festival on Oct. 1 Jennifer Soble is the executive director of the Illinois Prison Project and is representing Ronnie Carrasquillo, who has been in prison for more than four decades for the 1976 murder of a Chicago police officer. (E. Jason Wambsgans/Chicago Tribune) SPRINGFIELD Ronnie Carrasquillo has been locked up for more than four decades for the 1976 murder of a Chicago police officer. Now 65, hes come close to freedom on three occasions in recent years. Carrasquillo went before the Illinois Prisoner Review Board in 2019, 2020, and 2021. Each time, he was narrowly denied parole by a vote of 7 to 6. In two of those cases, the seven votes were in favor of parole but eight were needed. Advertisement But when Carrasquillo again went before the board in May, all of the board members who had been in his corner during the previous three hearings had been replaced. This time, Carrasquillo was denied parole by a vote of 8-1. Some observers point to the Carrasquillo case as an example of a rightward shift the board has taken following criticism from Republican lawmakers who argued the board had become too lenient in granting parole to older people in prison whove been locked up for decades after being convicted of particularly heinous crimes. Advertisement The criticism was largely aimed at Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who appoints board members. The state Senate, even though it is controlled by Democrats, rejected two of Pritzkers appointees, including one who had twice voted to parole Carrasquillo. (Board members can take their seats after being appointed but before being confirmed.) The scrutiny came during a contentious reelection year in which Pritzker had to fend off attacks that he was soft on crime from Republicans who cited his support for criminal justice initiatives like the sweeping SAFE-T Act, which among other things did away with cash bail in Illinois. The difference in the outcome of cases involving older inmates who had spent decades in prison in 2021, versus a similar number of cases during the following year and eight months, appears to bolster the argument that the board has tightened up on approving parole. In the most recent time period, less than 15% of the 48 cases in that category that were reviewed by the board resulted in parole, according to records on the boards website. That compares to slightly more than 40% of the 51 cases reviewed by the board in 2021. The apparent shift in the boards decision-making comes as Pritzker has become part of the national political conversation as a possible presidential contender, positioning himself as a prototype progressive on issues ranging from abortion rights to criminal justice reform. Republicans who pushed back against some of Pritzkers past appointments to the review board applaud the direction it has taken in recent months. State Sen. Terri Bryant, a Republican from downstate Murphysboro, said the panel is acting as they should,' and in fact may be getting a little too strict. I think they might actually be a little gun shy, to tell you the truth, where maybe they should be a little bit more lenient than they have been in this last year, Bryant said. They have now gone kind of in the other direction. Im happy about them going in the other direction so that theyre looking more closely. But they have to look at things on a case-by-case basis. Advertisement Under state law, the board can have up to 15 members, with no more than eight from the same political party. In December 2021, the board was made up of seven Democrats, six Republicans and one independent. In August, there were six Democrats, five Republicans and one independent on the board. Pritzker recently boosted the Democratic total to seven with the appointment of former state Sen. William Delgado of Chicago. Twelve of those 13 members are Pritzker appointments. In a brief interview, the boards chairman, Republican Donald Shelton, scoffed at the notion that politics are at play in the boards actions, despite statements from conservative Republicans who say they believe boards become more strict on granting parole. I couldnt care less what any of them said, said Shelton, a former Champaign police sergeant who has served on the board since 2012. The boards chief legal counsel, Kahalah Clay, said the panel is an impartial, objective and independent board and is not influenced by the governors office beyond his ability to appoint board members. Pritzker spokesman Alex Gough said the governor has worked to recruit candidates for the board and blamed politicized attacks on board members, from lawmakers in the Senate, during confirmation hearings, and in the press for making that process more difficult. Advertisement But one former board member said her experience was that the board is not immune from the political climate. Edith Crigler, a Democrat who stepped down as the boards chairperson earlier this year, said Pritzker didnt do enough to stand up for the board when it came under fire from Republicans, and also said she thinks the attacks have had an effect on the boards work. The members on the board now are thinking more about how their vote is going to be viewed by the General Assembly, and especially by the (Senate) executive appointment committee, than the merit of the case, said Crigler, a social worker who was appointed to the board in 2011 by then-Gov. Pat Quinn. Ive sat in the room with them and Ive listened to them deliberate. And they are very, very conservative. Republican state Sen. Steve McClure was among those leading the charge to reject two of Pritzkers review board appointments in early 2022. He took credit for convincing the Democratic-controlled Senate that some of the boards decisions were problematic. People often ask what Republicans do in the Capitol when you dont have many numbers, McClure, of Springfield, said, citing the Democrats 40-19 advantage over Republicans in the Senate. But this is probably our biggest accomplishment as Republicans, was turning around the PRB. People familiar with the boards handling of cases involving older inmates say factors beyond political ideology can play into its decisions. In addition to considering the crime that put the person in prison and the persons behavior once behind bars, criteria for granting parole include looking at how parole candidates have tried to better themselves and whether theyll have a stable home environment if granted release. Advertisement But Christopher Mooney, a professor emeritus of political science at the University of Illinois at Chicago, said the GOPs soft on crime attacks against Pritzker form one of the most powerful arguments that can be made against a politician, and could well play a role in the governors thinking when it comes to board appointments. Pritzker knows that this is a loser, probably, Mooney said. And its an opportunity, and I know hes been looking for these opportunities because Ive heard this, for reaching out to the other side. The brunt of the criticism concerned a relatively small portion of the boards workload, hearings that are primarily for aging prisoners who were given indeterminate sentences decades ago for serious crimes such as first-degree murder. Most of those prisoners were incarcerated before 1978, the year Illinois limited parole in favor of an early-release system that makes prisoners convicted of certain crimes eligible to be freed once theyve served at least 50% of their sentences. In addition to these so-called en banc cases, an investigation by Injustice Watch and WBEZ-FM last month indicated the board has been especially tough in cases involving inmates seeking early release for medical reasons. The report revealed that the board has denied almost two-thirds of medical release requests from dying or disabled people in prison who were eligible to be released under the Joe Coleman Medical Release Act, which provides another avenue for the terminally ill to seek parole. From January 2022, when the law took effect, until mid-August, the board granted 52 medical releases but denied 94 others, the news outlets reported. Advertisement Jennifer Soble, executive director of the Illinois Prison Project, which represents parole candidates pro bono, said many older parole-eligible people in prison have been hampered by not having legal representation when they go before the board. Without someone helping an incarcerated person navigate that system, its really hard for the PRB to get a truly comprehensive view, a truly comprehensive view of the incarcerated persons trajectory, current situation and their hopes for the future, said Soble, who has represented Carrasquillo. Among the earlier boards decisions that angered Senate Republicans were two that involved men convicted of killing police officers. In two 8-4 votes in February 2021, the board agreed to parole for both Johnny Veal convicted in the 1970 killings of Chicago police Officers Anthony Rizzato and Sgt. James Severin outside the Cabrini-Green housing complex and Joseph Hurst convicted in a 1967 shooting that left Chicago police Officer Herman Stallworth dead and another officer wounded. Those cases and others led the Senate to take a harder look at Pritzkers appointments. In March 2022, two of Pritzker appointees to the board, Jeff Mears and Eleanor Kaye Wilson, were rejected by the full Senate after getting grilled by Republicans before the Senate Executive Appointments Committee. The appointments of two other interim board members never made it to a Senate vote. Democrat Oreal James, resigned, while independent Max Cerdas appointment was withdrawn by Pritzker. Senate Republicans raised concerns over Mears votes in favor of parole for Zelma King, convicted of a 1967 triple murder, and Paula Sims, convicted in 1990 of killing her newborn child after a trial that included evidence indicating she killed another newborn four years earlier. Sims lawyer convinced the review board that her poor mental health likely played a role in her actions. Advertisement James and Wilson took heat for their votes to parole Veal and Hurst. Cerda, who has worked in the violence prevention field after earlier serving time in prison for a double murder and attempted murder committed when he was 16, was criticized for failing to recuse himself from voting on Carrasquillos parole he voted yes after revealing to the board that he knew Carrasquillo from when they were incarcerated, and even worked with him on a prison program. At one point following the departures of James, Wilson, Mears and Cerda, concerns were raised by state officials over whether the board would have enough members to function. In the spring of 2022, the board was down to just eight members, five Republicans and three Democrats. But since May 2022, Pritzker has appointed nine new board members, which along with some departures brought the panels membership to 13 as of mid-September. In July 2022, the board voted 7-2 to deny parole to Veals co-defendant, George Knights, now 76. Board members raised questions about a disciplinary infraction Knights was sent to segregation for seven days in 2021 after being found with what the board described as contraband. Crigler, who voted in favor of his parole, described the object as more of a needle than that of a knife and Knights lawyer said it was made to score candy bars, according to board records. Disciplinary issues also may have played a role in other cases where a larger majority of the board voted against parole. Advertisement Rudy Bell, 72, convicted in a 1977 murder, was denied parole in June by a 9-2 vote after narrowly missing a chance for freedom by votes of 7-6 in 2020 and 7-5 in 2021. Records show that a few months prior to the latest vote, he had been disciplined for being on the phone without authorization. This past July, 71-year-old Eddie Pitts, convicted in a fatal 1976 stabbing of a Peoples Gas employee, was denied parole in a 10-1 decision after being denied release 5-3 last year. Records show board members in July raised concerns over a fight he got into in 2022 that resulted in another prisoner needing brain surgery. Pitts has dementia, according to the records, and his lawyer argued his actions were in self-defense. Carrasquillo is in prison for the 1976 murder of Chicago police Officer Terrence Loftus in Logan Square. Carrasquillo was 18 at the time. While the Cook County states attorneys office did not oppose parole for Carrasquillo, representatives from the Chicago Police Department and its largest union, Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7, showed up at the May hearing to oppose his release. But a few months before the hearing, attorney Thomas Breen, who prosecuted the Carrasquillo case as a Cook County assistant states attorney, indicated to the board that Loftus killing wasnt intentional, according to records from a February board meeting, and that this was a difficult case with several witnesses that had been abused in the police station. Ronald Carrasquillo, then-18, was convicted of the 1976 fatal shooting police Officer Terrence Loftus. Mr. Thomas Breen stated that he is astounded that Mr. Carrasquillo hasnt been paroled yet, and that he is one of those people that believe in redemption and stated that he doesnt know what else he can do to show the Board, records state. Advertisement According to Soble, Carrasquillo over the years has mentored and started programs for other people who were incarcerated. Shelton, however, said the claim that the shooting was accidental was resolved in court a long time ago, in addition to being implausible according to credible documentation and much prior testimony, according to records. Carrasquillo may be looking at another avenue for getting out of prison. Last month, an Illinois Appellate Court panel vacated Carrasquillos sentence. The appellate court ruled that although Carrasquillo was not a juvenile at the time of the killing, circumstances of his upbringing and his maturity level at the time of the crime should allow him a meaningful opportunity for release. Given the repeated denials of his requests for parole over 20 years, that route for getting out of prison will never be meaningful despite his demonstrated maturity and rehabilitation, the court said in its ruling. The case has been remanded to the circuit court for a new sentencing hearing. Advertisement The online version of this story was updated to reflect that Max Cerdas appointment to the Prisoner Review Board was withdrawn by Pritzker. jgorner@chicagotribune.com Crime Stoppers In one month, Cleveland County Crime Stoppers has had 20 tips submitted on various crimes through its anonymous system. Jeff Yates, chairman for the Cleveland County Crime Stoppers, said the initiative was recently revitalized and is seeing new success. We absolutely have had success with it, Yates said. He said they have made one payout so far and they have received around 20 tips last month alone. Its being used and used a lot, he said. As far as the amount Crime Stoppers will payout, it varies according to the crime. It just depends on that case itself. The highest payout that Crime Stoppers will pay in Cleveland County is $1,000. That would be something very serious, a homicide, or something of that nature, he said. Yates said they will pay for crimes that range from simple larcenies, to narcotics and violent crimes. Each agency in the county, Kings Mountain, Boiling Springs, Shelby and the Sheriffs Office, sees tips as they come in, but each agency handles its own tips. Although theyve had success with the program, Yates said many people choose not to be rewarded. He said theres an option in the app to choose yes or no to a reward and many are choosing no. The payout theyve made so far was information provided about a wanted person. Thus far tips that come in have been more investigative in nature so we won't know month to month, year to year, how much money we'll be paying out, which is why it's imperative we keep a cash flow handy, Yates said. We need to be diligent in our fundraising efforts. We are obviously going to try to make it easy for people to donate to the cause. We have a Facebook page that has a donate feature right on the page if people are interested in doing so. Crime Stoppers Cleveland County Inc. also has an Instagram and Twitter and has posters in all the schools. Yates said to be sure to find the new Crime Stoppers Inc. page instead of the old one. He said the page is active with information, tips, promotions and posts from all the area agencies. The Crime Stoppers tip line is also still active, and people can call tips in anonymously as well with the information added to the system to keep it completely anonymous. It's an amazing tool, Yates said. It is only as good as the people willing to come forward. We have no desire to know how they are. All we want is to get the information. Recently, the nonprofit received a $1,500 donation from Walmart Distribution Center. Yates said they depend upon donations and fundraisers to keep the program going. We are still in our infancy, and we've got some fundraising things we are starting with our board right now, he said. We do have some things going which is why Walmart Distribution was so kind to give us a donation. Yates, Shelby Police and a 15-member board have revitalized Crime Stoppers after it had faded away in 2017. Yates, a retired police officer from Ohio, said he and his wife moved to Shelby and began doing volunteer work for the local police department. He said Jeff Ledford, chief at that time, asked if Yates would assist one of his detectives in getting Crime Stoppers back off the ground. Knowing virtually nothing about it, the three of us, myself, my wife and Det. Benson attended training by the North Carolina state board of Crime Stoppers, he said. A community of people pitched in to help create the board, and theyve begun plans to raise funds. What we have found throughout the summer, there are so many people who don't understand what Crime Stoppers does, he said. Bottom line is, our entire mission is to provide a platform for a person to anonymously contact the police and provide information that might lead to an arrest in exchange for reward money that Crime Stoppers would pay for an arrest. In the past, people wanting to provide information had to call a tip line, and it wasnt entirely anonymous. Now, with new technology, a tipster can provide information through an app that allows people to anonymously message information and communicate with police. They can also upload photos and videos and real time information. At that point, police would conduct their investigation and if the tip resulted in an arrest or conclusion of a case, the detective from the agency would contact the anonymous person through the app and let them know Crime Stoppers owed them money. Yates said people are only known by an identifying tip number which they use to go through a bank drive-through to claim their reward. We don't know who you are, start to finish, he said This article originally appeared on The Shelby Star: Crime Stoppers bringing in tips, paying out cash The Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) is set to launch a network to provide humanitarian aid to Ukrainians, one day after beginning its annual conference in New York on Monday. CGI Ukraine Action Network will be officially announced Tuesday, The Associated Press reported. The network is a product of a collaboration between former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Ukrainian first lady Olena Zelenska. The AP reported that several financial pledges are also set to be announced in conjunction with Tuesdays initiative launch. CGI is convening its annual conference in New York on Monday and Tuesday and will bring together leaders from countries throughout the world to support his years theme of keep going. Pope Francis will discuss climate change with former President Clinton to open the conference Monday. Other U.S. public officials set to appear include Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D). U.S. media figures taking part include Dana Perino, a Fox News Channel anchor, and Jen Psaki, who hosts a show on MSNBC. Basketball Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley, Google President Ruth Porat, former U.K. Prime Minister Tony Blair and Guyana President Irfaan Ali are also all set to participate. In a July letter to CGI community members, the Clintons described the meeting as focusing on what it takes to keep going to maintain and advance progress, in spite of the difficulties that arise, and increase our capacity to cross the divides and make common cause with one another wherever possible to build a stronger future for all. The meeting will address climate change, health inequities, food insecurity, economic inequality, democracy around the world, and refugees, the letter said. Members will try to find ways to channel energy and investment to scale solutions that are already improving peoples lives, and explore how tools like [artificial intelligence] can be responsibly harnessed for good. As always, the focus will be on what we can do, not what we cant and will highlight how even seemingly small actions, when taken together, can turn the tide on even our most stubborn challenges, they wrote. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Jenna Ellis , who was an attorney for former President Donald Trump and is a co-defendant in the Georgia election interference investigation, says she will not support Trump in his latest bid for the White House. During a recent episode of her podcast, Ellis said she could support the former president over his narcissistic tendencies. I simply cant support him for elected office again, Ellis said on her show. Why I have chosen to distance is because of that frankly malignant narcissistic tendency to simply say that hes never done anything wrong. Ellis served as one of Trumps campaign attorneys during the 2020 election. She, along with Trump and 17 others, were indicted last month by a Fulton County grand jury over allegations they conspired to overturn the 2020 election here in Georgia. Ellis is currently charged with racketeering and asking public officials to violate their oath of office. She has pleaded not guilty to the charges. Shortly following the 2020 election, Ellis was part of a group of attorneys who went before a Georgia Senate committee that pushed election conspiracies that were found to be unfounded by state and federal officials. RELATED STORIES: The team tried to convince legislatures in seven key battleground states, including Georgia, that there had been so much voter fraud they had the constitutional authority to overturn the election and select their own slate of Republican electors. It was at that hearing that Trumps Georgia attorney Ray Smith testified that more than 130,000 people voted illegally here -- something multiple state and federal investigations proved just wasnt true. 2,506 felons voted illegally in Georgia, Smith said. 10,315 or more individuals voted who were deceased by the time of the election. 15,700 to vote in Georgia who filed a national change of address form with the Postal Service prior to Nov. 3, 2020. The Jan. 6 Commission said Ellis was one of the architects of the scheme to convince then-Vice President Mike Pence to toss out the legally certified Democratic electors from those battleground states on Jan. 6 and instead count the Republican false electors, thereby throwing the election to Trump. Ellis said during the podcast that despite her good relationship with the former president, she wont vote for him. I know him well, as a friend, as a former boss, I have great love and respect for him personally, Ellis said. I simply cant support him for elected office again. RELATED NEWS: Republican state Sen. Shannon Grove , center, speaks to reporters in in July about her bill to increase penalties on child traffickers. (Adam Beam / Associated Press) The lopsidedly Democratic California Legislature was turned on its head. The most dramatic event of this years just-concluded session was a bizarre, unanimous Republican victory. The rare GOP triumph was led by a tenacious Bakersfield conservative, Sen. Shannon Grove, whose cause was right. In the end, it proved irresistible even for liberal lawmakers whose ideology was antithetical to her bill. Groves cause was longer prison sentences for sex traffickers of children. Her bill, SB 14, classified the pimping of kids under 18 as a serious crime. Duh! Whats to argue? Nothing, the Senate figured. It voted 40-0 without debate just before the Memorial Day weekend to send her bill to the Assembly. But categorizing sex trafficking of children as a serious felony subjects repeat offenders to Californias three-strikes law that liberals have been on a crusade to scuttle because it can mean life sentences and overcrowded prisons. So in July, Groves bill was shelved by the Assembly Public Safety Committee chaired by Assemblymember Reginald Jones-Sawyer (D-Los Angeles). This panel has long been a deathbed for sentence-stiffening bills. The media got hold of it, Grove told me. Californians wouldnt have known about it if you guys werent engaged. Then the governor definitely got engaged. And the speaker engaged. Read more: California lawmakers send Gov. Newsom child sex trafficking bill that divided Democrats There was public outrage and intervention by the two powerful Democrats: Gov. Gavin Newsom and new Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Hollister). Their arm-twisting saved the bill. The Assembly Public Safety Committee briefly reconvened and Democrats meekly resurrected the measure. SB 14 finally reached the Assembly floor Sept. 11 and passed 80-0, but only after Republicans rubbed the Democrats noses in it. People commit crimes and nothing happens, Republican Leader James Gallagher of Yuba City asserted, echoing a much-repeated GOP line that may be gaining more public traction. Finally were taking a stand today. Republican Assemblyman Bill Essayli of Corona contended that stiffer sentences for sex traffickers went against the liberals empty-the-prisons agenda. Democratic Assemblyman Al Muratsuchi of Rolling Hills Estates, a former prosecutor, cautioned party colleagues: We need to restore balance continue to invest in programs like mental health and education, but do more to keep our neighborhoods safe making sure those committing the most heinous crimes are locked up where theyre not hurting more people. The Senate later agreed to Assembly amendments that protected trafficked victims from being targeted by prosecutors, a stated liberal fear. And the measure was sent to Newsom on a unanimous vote. It was a major triumph not only for Grove and Republicans, but for two Democrats: the rookie speaker and the nationally ambitious governor. Newsoms biggest victory, however, was bipartisan passage just before legislative adjournment Thursday night of the governors sorely needed overhaul of mental health laws and funding. It represented his latest attempt mostly failed to solve Californias persistent problem of homelessness. The Legislature passed three bills, two whose author was Sen. Susan Talamantes Eggman (D-Stockton), who grew up watching her aunt Barbara suffer from mental illness. Her aunt never received adequate treatment and struggled on and off the street, then was gang-raped and soon died of AIDs. Much of todays homeless dilemma stems from Gov. Ronald Reagan and the Legislature closing state mental health hospitals 56 years ago. Sacramento turned over patients care to counties. But little money was supplied for treatment. Many former patients self-medicated with drugs and alcohol and wound up on the street. One Eggman bill, SB 43, would make it easier for homeless people with severe substance abuse and mental disorders to be detained against their will for treatment. The other Eggman bill, SB 326, would redirect $1 billion annually from the so-called millionaires tax roughly 30% of the fund to operate new mental health housing and treatment facilities for 10,000 additional people with serious behavioral health or substance-abuse problems. Voters in the March presidential primary will need to approve the reconfiguration of millionaires tax spending. And theyll also be asked to authorize a $6.4-billion bond issue to build the new housing and treatment units. That Newsom bond proposal jockeyed through the Legislature by Assemblywoman Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) expanded quietly and unexpectedly by $1.7 billion in the final three harried days of the legislative session. A little bait and switch? Whats another billion or two? Read more: News Analysis: Labor unions win big in California Legislature as hot labor summer drags into fall But the sessions grand winner was labor, the state Capitols most powerful special interest these days. It achieved legislation to increase the number of employees paid sick days, raise the minimum wage for healthcare and fast-food workers and even permit legislative staffers to unionize. The biggest eye-opener, however, was legislation to allow striking workers to collect state unemployment insurance after two weeks. When someone goes on strike, its not a romantic thing. Its hard on that family, declared Sen. Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) during heated debate on his bill, SB 799. This is the craziest thing Ive seen, countered Sen. Brian Dahle (R-Bieber), who runs a seed farming business. Someone who has a job? Goes on strike and gets [state] benefits? Dahle made sense and so did Sen. Kelly Seyarto (R-Murrieta), who argued: Going on strike is a voluntary thing. And thats not what unemployment insurance is set up for. Both houses sent the bill to the governor on a party-line vote. Newsom expressed concerns about the measure last week torn between his loyalty to labor and realization that the states unemployment insurance fund is already roughly $20 billion in debt. One has to be cautious, the governor said noncommittally when asked whether hed sign the bill. Cautious fiscally and politically. By contrast, the only need for caution regarding the child sex-trafficking bill is to make sure the unconscionable bad guys are locked up for a very long time. 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. Ukrainian troops have broken through one of the Russian defensive lines near Donetsk Oblasts Bakhmut, Oleksandr Syrskyi , the commander of the Ukrainian Ground Forces who heads the military operations in the east, reported on Sept. 18. Fierce battles are underway around Bakhmut, with Russia conducting multiple counterattacks from various directions, trying to regain lost positions following Ukraines liberation of Andriivka and Klishchiivka, according to Syrskyi. After all, these small, at first glance, settlements were important elements of the enemy's defensive line, which stretched from Bakhmut to Horlivka, the military official said. Read also: US intelligence: Realistic possibility that Ukraine can break through remaining Russian lines in 2023 However, the general battlefield situation in the east remains difficult" as Russia is actively preparing for offensive operations in the Kupiansk and Lyman directions, added Colonel General Syrskyi. Ukrainian military announced on Sept. 17 that it had liberated Klishchiivka after more than three months of counteroffensive operations on the Bakhmut axis. The village of Klishchiivka, which lies about nine kilometers south of Bakhmut, was occupied by Russia in January. Soldiers with Ukraines 3rd Separate Assault Brigade deployed in the area earlier told the Kyiv Independent that advancing toward Klishchiivka was highly challenging due to heavily mined fields and Russias constant artillery fire. On Sept. 15, Ukraines General Staff announced the liberation of Andriivka, another small settlement located nearly three kilometers south of Klishchiivka and less than 10 kilometers from occupied Bakhmut. Read also: Inching forward in Bakhmut counteroffensive, Ukraines hardened units look ahead to long, grim war Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) On Monday, September 18, the Metro Public Health Department is hosting a community forum discussing the ways violence, in all forms, is a threat to the health of the public. I think the current way that we address violence, from just a law enforcement only perspective, has not yielded the results they wanted to yield, said State Representative Harold Love Jr., whos moderating the forum. There clearly has to be a connection between, again, things like increased poverty, low access to affordable housing. Representative Love, District 58, said its time to involve public health officials for another perspective and clarify contributing factors. Have breaking come to you: Subscribe to News 2 email alerts Just like COVID-19 or the flu, if we see that someone may have had the symptoms of this particular illness, or this particular episode, that particular issue is a health crisis, we might find ways to mitigate our exposure to it, said Love. So, why not approach violence in the same manner? He said violence can spread, similar to a physical disease. If Ive experienced a traumatic episode or if Ive had violence acted upon me, I need to receive some help, I need to receive some counseling, I need to receive some some measures on how I can better deal with the situation and get myself to a place where I can then engage in conversations and engage in interaction with people in a manner that does not lead me to exact violence on them, said Love. Community members are invited to join the discussion, happening from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Lee Chapel AME Church (1200 Dr. D.B. Todd Blvd.) Read todays top stories on wkrn.com Having the community there allows us to survey the community to find out what makes you feel safe, what makes you feel unsafe, how might we address those issues, said Love. Its not just words that were getting, but were actually taking actions to reduce these violent episodes. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Playing games and connecting with family those are the things Shantel Pizaro says made her son, Steven Eason, happy. He loved having fun, she said. He loved cracking jokes, laughing. If you seen my son, he had a beautiful smile, and nine times out of ten, he was smiling. Monique Jenkins, 15, said Eason was her godbrother. Any time we was with him, it was fun, Jenkins said. It was never a dull moment. Thats what I really liked about him. He didnt really have any drama with anybody. Sundays second annual Steven Eason Jr. Memorial Family Fun Day at Penn Hills Community Park, which was organized by Pizaro, honors her son and the need to bring about change. I think violence isnt the way to solve everything, said 11-year-old Jasmine Curry, Easons close family friend. There are consequences for the things that you do. Two years ago, on Sept. 11, 2021, detectives said Eason was shot and killed while breaking up a fight at a haunted hayride in North Versailles. He was just 15 years old. It makes me feel as though Im doing something to make him proud while also keeping him relevant, said Pizaro. Pizaro told Channel 11 the event not only keeps her sons legacy alive but also keeps his case in the spotlight. We dont want it to turn into a cold case, she said. We dont want him to become irrelevant to a lot of people. We want him to matter because what happened to him does matter. Despite dozens of witnesses that horrific night, there are still no arrests. Two years later, however, the case is finally picking up some traction. Last week, Channel 11 confirmed a grand jury has been reviewing evidence and hearing testimony in connection to the teens murder. RELATED COVERAGE >>> Grand jury convened in case of teenager murdered at North Versailles haunted hayride Pizaro is staying hopeful that charges against a suspect could come out soon. Please, someone, just tell the truth, she said. Be honest about what happened so that we can get some type of justice for him. County police said theyre still investigating the case. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW TRENDING NOW: Mother of former NFL player Sergio Brown found dead in Chicago suburb Man dead after being hit by truck tractor at construction site in South Fayette Township Woman dead after crash in North Versailles VIDEO: Its been very successful Pittsburgh Police make South Side entertainment patrol permanent DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has fined the company that owns and operates a South Georgia grain silo more than $40,000 after an employees death. According to an investigation from OSHA, it said that a Cedar Head, LLC employee went into a bin to unclog clumps of grain as the bins auger turned below. As they stood atop the grain, the pile shifted and quickly engulfed them. One other worker onsite rushed over and saw a rope that was tied to the worker disappearing into the grain but could not rescue their co-worker, an OSHA news release said. OSHA cited the company for nine violations for exposing employees to engulfment hazards. TRENDING STORIES: In a letter dated Aug. 30, OSHA laid out the penalties being brought against the company, fining them more than $40,000 over the incident. Our investigation found Cedar Head failed to follow required federal safety standards that might have saved this workers life, said OSHA Acting Area Director Heather Sanders in Savannah, Georgia. Our outreach and enforcement efforts continually stress the importance of making sure employees are trained and that proper procedures are followed when working inside grain bins to prevent tragedies like this one. Moving grain acts like quicksand and can bury a worker in seconds, OSHAs website says about grain handling. Bridged grain and vertical piles of stored grain can also collapse unexpectedly if a worker stands on or near it. The behavior and weight of the grain make it extremely difficult for a worker to get out of it without assistance. The Macon Telegraph reached out to Cedar Head, LLC for comment about this incident, but never heard back. IN OTHER NEWS: Ronnie Carrasquillo has been locked up for more than four decades for the 1976 murder of a Chicago police officer. Now 65, hes come close to freedom on three occasions in recent years. Carrasquillo went before the Illinois Prisoner Review Board in 2019, 2020, and 2021. Each time, he was narrowly denied parole by a vote of 7 to 6. In two of those cases, the seven votes were in favor of parole but eight were needed. But when Carrasquillo again went before the board in May, all of the board members who had been in his corner during the previous three hearings had been replaced. This time, Carrasquillo was denied parole by a vote of 8-1. Some observers point to the Carrasquillo case as an example of a rightward shift the board has taken following criticism from Republican lawmakers who argued the board had become too lenient in granting parole to older people in prison whove been locked up for decades after being convicted of particularly heinous crimes. The criticism was largely aimed at Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who appoints board members. The state Senate, even though it is controlled by Democrats, rejected two of Pritzkers appointees, including one who had twice voted to parole Carrasquillo. (Board members can take their seats after being appointed but before being confirmed.) The scrutiny came during a contentious reelection year in which Pritzker had to fend off attacks that he was soft on crime from Republicans who cited his support for criminal justice initiatives like the sweeping SAFE-T Act, which among other things did away with cash bail in Illinois. The difference in the outcome of cases involving older inmates who had spent decades in prison in 2021, versus a similar number of cases during the following year and eight months, appears to bolster the argument that the board has tightened up on approving parole. In the most recent time period, less than 15% of the 48 cases in that category that were reviewed by the board resulted in parole, according to records on the boards website. That compares to slightly more than 40% of the 51 cases reviewed by the board in 2021. The apparent shift in the boards decision-making comes as Pritzker has become part of the national political conversation as a possible presidential contender, positioning himself as a prototype progressive on issues ranging from abortion rights to criminal justice reform. Republicans who pushed back against some of Pritzkers past appointments to the review board applaud the direction it has taken in recent months. State Sen. Terri Bryant, a Republican from downstate Murphysboro, said the panel is acting as they should,' and in fact may be getting a little too strict. I think they might actually be a little gun shy, to tell you the truth, where maybe they should be a little bit more lenient than they have been in this last year, Bryant said. They have now gone kind of in the other direction. Im happy about them going in the other direction so that theyre looking more closely. But they have to look at things on a case-by-case basis. Under state law, the board can have up to 15 members, with no more than eight from the same political party. In December 2021, the board was made up of seven Democrats, six Republicans and one independent. In August, there were six Democrats, five Republicans and one independent on the board. Pritzker recently boosted the Democratic total to seven with the appointment of former state Sen. William Delgado of Chicago. Twelve of those 13 members are Pritzker appointments. In a brief interview, the boards chairman, Republican Donald Shelton, scoffed at the notion that politics are at play in the boards actions, despite statements from conservative Republicans who say they believe boards become more strict on granting parole. I couldnt care less what any of them said, said Shelton, a former Champaign police sergeant who has served on the board since 2012. The boards chief legal counsel, Kahalah Clay, said the panel is an impartial, objective and independent board and is not influenced by the governors office beyond his ability to appoint board members. Pritzker spokesman Alex Gough said the governor has worked to recruit candidates for the board and blamed politicized attacks on board members, from lawmakers in the Senate, during confirmation hearings, and in the press for making that process more difficult. But one former board member said her experience was that the board is not immune from the political climate. Edith Crigler, a Democrat who stepped down as the boards chairperson earlier this year, said Pritzker didnt do enough to stand up for the board when it came under fire from Republicans, and also said she thinks the attacks have had an effect on the boards work. The members on the board now are thinking more about how their vote is going to be viewed by the General Assembly, and especially by the (Senate) executive appointment committee, than the merit of the case, said Crigler, a social worker who was appointed to the board in 2011 by then-Gov. Pat Quinn. Ive sat in the room with them and Ive listened to them deliberate. And they are very, very conservative. Republican state Sen. Steve McClure was among those leading the charge to reject two of Pritzkers review board appointments in early 2022. He took credit for convincing the Democratic-controlled Senate that some of the boards decisions were problematic. People often ask what Republicans do in the Capitol when you dont have many numbers, McClure, of Springfield, said, citing the Democrats 40-19 advantage over Republicans in the Senate. But this is probably our biggest accomplishment as Republicans, was turning around the PRB. People familiar with the boards handling of cases involving older inmates say factors beyond political ideology can play into its decisions. In addition to considering the crime that put the person in prison and the persons behavior once behind bars, criteria for granting parole include looking at how parole candidates have tried to better themselves and whether theyll have a stable home environment if granted release. But Christopher Mooney, a professor emeritus of political science at the University of Illinois at Chicago, said the GOPs soft on crime attacks against Pritzker form one of the most powerful arguments that can be made against a politician, and could well play a role in the governors thinking when it comes to board appointments. Pritzker knows that this is a loser, probably, Mooney said. And its an opportunity, and I know hes been looking for these opportunities because Ive heard this, for reaching out to the other side. The brunt of the criticism concerned a relatively small portion of the boards workload, hearings that are primarily for aging prisoners who were given indeterminate sentences decades ago for serious crimes such as first-degree murder. Most of those prisoners were incarcerated before 1978, the year Illinois limited parole in favor of an early-release system that makes prisoners convicted of certain crimes eligible to be freed once theyve served at least 50% of their sentences. In addition to these so-called en banc cases, an investigation by Injustice Watch and WBEZ-FM last month indicated the board has been especially tough in cases involving inmates seeking early release for medical reasons. The report revealed that the board has denied almost two-thirds of medical release requests from dying or disabled people in prison who were eligible to be released under the Joe Coleman Medical Release Act, which provides another avenue for the terminally ill to seek parole. From January 2022, when the law took effect, until mid-August, the board granted 52 medical releases but denied 94 others, the news outlets reported. Jennifer Soble, executive director of the Illinois Prison Project, which represents parole candidates pro bono, said many older parole-eligible people in prison have been hampered by not having legal representation when they go before the board. Without someone helping an incarcerated person navigate that system, its really hard for the PRB to get a truly comprehensive view, a truly comprehensive view of the incarcerated persons trajectory, current situation and their hopes for the future, said Soble, who has represented Carrasquillo. Among the earlier boards decisions that angered Senate Republicans were two that involved men convicted of killing police officers. In two 8-4 votes in February 2021, the board agreed to parole for both Johnny Veal convicted in the 1970 killings of Chicago police Officers Anthony Rizzato and Sgt. James Severin outside the Cabrini-Green housing complex and Joseph Hurst convicted in a 1967 shooting that left Chicago police Officer Herman Stallworth dead and another officer wounded. Those cases and others led the Senate to take a harder look at Pritzkers appointments. In March 2022, two of Pritzker appointees to the board, Jeff Mears and Eleanor Kaye Wilson, were rejected by the full Senate after getting grilled by Republicans before the Senate Executive Appointments Committee. The appointments of two other interim board members never made it to a Senate vote. Democrat Oreal James, resigned, while independent Max Cerdas appointment was withdrawn by Pritzker. Senate Republicans raised concerns over Mears votes in favor of parole for Zelma King, convicted of a 1967 triple murder, and Paula Sims, convicted in 1990 of killing her newborn child after a trial that included evidence indicating she killed another newborn four years earlier. Sims lawyer convinced the review board that her poor mental health likely played a role in her actions. James and Wilson took heat for their votes to parole Veal and Hurst. Cerda, who has worked in the violence prevention field after earlier serving time in prison for a double murder and attempted murder committed when he was 16, was criticized for failing to recuse himself from voting on Carrasquillos parole he voted yes after revealing to the board that he knew Carrasquillo from when they were incarcerated, and even worked with him on a prison program. At one point following the departures of James, Wilson, Mears and Cerda, concerns were raised by state officials over whether the board would have enough members to function. In the spring of 2022, the board was down to just eight members, five Republicans and three Democrats. But since May 2022, Pritzker has appointed nine new board members, which along with some departures brought the panels membership to 13 as of mid-September. In July 2022, the board voted 7-2 to deny parole to Veals co-defendant, George Knights, now 76. Board members raised questions about a disciplinary infraction Knights was sent to segregation for seven days in 2021 after being found with what the board described as contraband. Crigler, who voted in favor of his parole, described the object as more of a needle than that of a knife and Knights lawyer said it was made to score candy bars, according to board records. Disciplinary issues also may have played a role in other cases where a larger majority of the board voted against parole. Rudy Bell, 72, convicted in a 1977 murder, was denied parole in June by a 9-2 vote after narrowly missing a chance for freedom by votes of 7-6 in 2020 and 7-5 in 2021. Records show that a few months prior to the latest vote, he had been disciplined for being on the phone without authorization. This past July, 71-year-old Eddie Pitts, convicted in a fatal 1976 stabbing of a Peoples Gas employee, was denied parole in a 10-1 decision after being denied release 5-3 last year. Records show board members in July raised concerns over a fight he got into in 2022 that resulted in another prisoner needing brain surgery. Pitts has dementia, according to the records, and his lawyer argued his actions were in self-defense. Carrasquillo is in prison for the 1976 murder of Chicago police Officer Terrence Loftus in Logan Square. Carrasquillo was 18 at the time. While the Cook County states attorneys office did not oppose parole for Carrasquillo, representatives from the Chicago Police Department and its largest union, Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7, showed up at the May hearing to oppose his release. But a few months before the hearing, attorney Thomas Breen, who prosecuted the Carrasquillo case as a Cook County assistant states attorney, indicated to the board that Loftus killing wasnt intentional, according to records from a February board meeting, and that this was a difficult case with several witnesses that had been abused in the police station. Mr. Thomas Breen stated that he is astounded that Mr. Carrasquillo hasnt been paroled yet, and that he is one of those people that believe in redemption and stated that he doesnt know what else he can do to show the Board, records state. According to Soble, Carrasquillo over the years has mentored and started programs for other people who were incarcerated. Shelton, however, said the claim that the shooting was accidental was resolved by the jury a long time ago, in addition to being implausible according to credible documentation and much prior testimony, according to records. Carrasquillo may be looking at another avenue for getting out of prison. Last month, an Illinois Appellate Court panel vacated Carrasquillos sentence. The appellate court ruled that although Carrasquillo was not a juvenile at the time of the killing, circumstances of his upbringing and his maturity level at the time of the crime should allow him a meaningful opportunity for release. Given the repeated denials of his requests for parole over 20 years, that route for getting out of prison will never be meaningful despite his demonstrated maturity and rehabilitation, the court said in its ruling. The case has been remanded to the circuit court for a new sentencing hearing. The online version of this story was updated to reflect that Max Cerdas appointment to the Prisoner Review Board was withdrawn by Pritzker. jgorner@chicagotribune.com A vehicle with Waukegan residents proudly representing their Mexican heritage travels through a downtown route during one of two parades celebrating Mexican Independence Day Sunday. (Yadira Sanchez Olson/Lake County News-Sun) Hundreds of people celebrated Mexican Independence Day with music, food and dance in Waukegan as the city hosted unprecedented back-to-back parades Sunday. Despite inclement weather that delayed the processions for more than an hour, each parade carried on with the familiar scenes and sounds of horns blaring, mariachi music blasting and brightly colored marchers decked out in garb that represents their culture. Advertisement In the background, though, was a feud brewing for months leading up to the celebrations between the two organizers, due to each wanting to be solely in charge of planning the parade. Families lined the streets to watch Waukegan's hosting of back-to-back parades celebrating Mexican Independence Day Sunday. (Yadira Sanchez Olson/Lake County News-Sun) The hostility between Oscar Zepeda, who organized the Desfile de Independencia, and Margaret Carrasco, who organized Fiestas Patrias, also divided crowds, not so much at the parades as the route was the same and one followed the other but at the festivals. Advertisement That has resulted in talks about the city taking over the organizing of the parade in the future, Waukegan Mayor Ann Taylor said. Waukegan police deputy chief Scott Chastain said that thanks to an unprecedented amount of preplanning of extra city resources for the two parades, only two arrests were made Sunday, and both were off-site from the parades and festivals. But Taylor said that if it takes twice as much of the citys staff to pull off a safe event, it does make sense to look at the option of the city taking it over. The parades were different this year, too, due to the division and the decision from City Council to host both parades on the same day. Less participants were allowed to march and there were no horses, which are a staple of Mexican culture. For parade-goer Osmar Lamadrid, that resulted in an experience that was not up-to-par in terms of what the event should be. This is kind of silly, he said. Now, the citys risk-management team will evaluate how the events went, Taylor said. Based on that information, officials will make a decision on whether the two will happen again next year, or if there will be another way to celebrate. The city is very proud of this celebration, Taylor said. But this division is not what this community is about. Advertisement Cultural items were sold at one of two festivals celebrating Mexican Independence Day in Waukegan Sunday. (Yadira Sanchez Olson/Lake County News-Sun) Both Zepeda and Carrasco said they will put in an application for their parade next year. There were mixed reviews from festivalgoers and parade-watchers. Some said they were confused as to why there were separate simultaneous celebrations after the parades. Others had no clue there was another celebration elsewhere. Some of those interviewed said they wished the leadership in Waukegan wouldnt always boil down to politics, and instead focus on the residents. Both organizers had criticized the City Council s approval of the others event. They both said it was the council that divided the community with the decision to allow both instead of only theirs. Its ridiculous to be dividing people like this when its supposed to be an occasion that unites everyone, said Maria Calderon, a vendor at the festival organized by Zepeda, which was held on city property on Sheridan Road. Advertisement Both organizers are deeply involved in the Waukegan Hispanic community. Zepeda runs a bilingual newspaper, while Carrasco is the head organizer of the Fiestas Patrias organization that hosted the annual parade in previous years. Zepeda cited a need for a more educational take on the event and in wanting to host, and Carrasco wanted to keep things the same, as far as leadership. We want to give the community what they deserve, he said, which is a better quality parade that promotes the culture and teaches youth what the celebration is about. After the event, Zepeda said he was happy with the turnout and the results. I did what I said I would do, he said. The message I saw was clear: family is first in our community. I saw that family unity. Carrasco said her parade and festival did just that and educated people about how Mexico declared its independence from Spain, with marchers and floats representing Spaniards attacking and Mexicans defending themselves. Advertisement She said her events were, a clear slap on the face of the mayor, whom she added was unsupportive of her efforts to provide the community with a celebration of their Hispanic culture. She said shell take her plight to court if she has to. We will have horses next year, I assure you, Carrasco said. Waukegan resident Maria Garcia, who had planned to go to all of the festivities, said she just wants her children to enjoy traditions she grew up with, no matter where they live and no matter who is behind the organizations. The sighting of a pack of gray wolves in California has provided a massive boost for conservation efforts to ensure the longevity of the species and the survival of key ecosystems. An adult female and four pups were spotted in the Sequoia National Forest more than a month after a report of a single sighting. According to the Associated Press (AP), the five gray wolves were not previously documented, and they were found hundreds of miles away from the next nearest pack in Lassen Park in the northeast of the state. The group Save Animals Facing Extinction (@SaveAnimals) tweeted about an article on the news from the Guardian. AP News noted that the Department of Fish and Wildlife said DNA testing of the adult female from the new pack revealed it is a descendant of OR7, the first known wolf to enter California in nearly a century when it crossed from Oregon in 2011. Furthermore, genetic profiles of the offspring suggest they are descended from the Lassen Park pack. The gray wolf hasnt been seen often in California for quite some time. The animals were hunted to extinction in the state in the 1920s, although they were still found elsewhere. But wolves making their way from out-of-state locations in the past decade has led to increased sightings, AP News reported. According to the Department of Fish and Wildlife, a court order from February 2022 protected the gray wolf under the Endangered Species Act. The new pack was welcomed by California Program Director for Defenders of Wildlife Pamela Flick, who described it as an exciting milestone in the recovery of the species in California. This recently detected group of wolves is at least 200 straight-line miles from the nearest known California pack and demonstrates the species amazing ability to disperse long distances and take advantage of the states plentiful suitable habitat, Flick said in a statement. Today, August 13th is International Wolf Day. #InternationalWolfDay was created to raise awareness about the critically important role wolves play in balanced ecosystems. Here are five ways you can observe and celebrate today but the most important is always ACTION! #RelistWolves pic.twitter.com/AucVH6qDZA #RelistWolves (@relistwolves) August 13, 2023 The California Wolf Center observed how wolves play an essential role in the survival of natural ecosystems. They are referred to as a keystone species due to being the dominant predator. With no wolves around, coyotes take that role, and their population grows. With that, the competition for food becomes more fierce, affecting the populations of badgers, foxes, and martens, who have fewer rodents to feed on. Furthermore, larger prey like elk and deer have fewer predators to control their numbers, leading them to multiply. That impacts the growth of vegetation and destroys habitats for smaller animals, according to the center. Join our free newsletter for cool news and cool tips that make it easy to help yourself while helping the planet. House Republicans remain split on approving more aid to Ukraine, according to a new report card released by a conservative group Monday that grades members on their support for Kyiv. The Republicans for Ukraine report card evaluates members on six criteria, including whether they voted for laws supporting U.S. aid to Ukraine, whether they supported amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act that would slow down assistance to Ukraine and what kind of public statements they have made about the war. It says that out of the 222 House Republicans, there have been 82 As, 43 Bs, eight Cs, 17 Ds and 72 Fs in terms of support for Kyiv. Those who received As include Foreign Affairs Chairman Michael McCaul (R-Texas), who has been adamant about providing more aid. A handful of House Republicans have been outspoken in their opposition to more U.S. funding for Ukraine. The White House has asked Congress to attach supplemental funding for Ukraine, disaster relief and border security to a CR to fund the government. Bloomberg and Punchbowl News have both reported that GOP leaders were considering tying Ukraine funding to policy changes that Republicans want to see on the U.S.-Mexico border. 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 358-70. Gaetz received an F on his report card. Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), who received an F on the report card, also said last week he would not support a new Ukraine package and doubted any Ukraine funding would be moving to the floor anytime soon. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is slated to meet with President Biden this week and hold discussions with lawmakers. The Biden administration has remained committed to supporting Ukraine and has provided billions of dollars in military and humanitarian support since Russia invaded the country last year. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A Chambersburg constable charged last week with hundreds of sex crimes boasted of being a "sugar daddy" to upwards of 50 females who agreed to have sex with him to feed their drug addictions, according to a grand jury report. Timothy R. Heefner, 64, faces 704 counts of human trafficking, prostitution-related offenses, sexual extortion and other crimes, according to court records. He is in Franklin County Jail on $1.25 million bail. Most of his victims are at or were once at the same facility. After hearing from a dozen victims and seeing a variety of evidence, the grand jury summarized its findings with this statement: "In summary, we find that Timothy Heefner is a predator and has gotten away with sexually victimizing young women in our county for far too long. He believed he was permitted to commit these crimes and that he could get away with it all because his victims were broken, sick, addicted and in the shadows. "Many victims sadly agreed with him and avoided coming forward to police, for obvious reasons, and this Grand Jury process was necessary to that end. Those who appeared before us were very brave. Heefner believed no one would care and no one would believe these young women, and he was wrong. We believe them." No attorney information is listed for Heefner in court records. Handcuffs hang on metal prison bars. Informant: Heefner preyed on girls with drug addictions A Franklin County Children and Youth Services referral kicked off the police investigation into Heefner in July 2021, according to the grand jury report. The person who made the initial report to CYS stated that Heefner would boast about being a "sugar daddy" and would "prey on young girls with drug addictions." In an interview with police, the victim said Heefner would "brag about having 40-50 'sugar babies,'" according to the report. Most, if not all, of these were drug-addicted females living throughout Franklin County whom he "exploited" by offering them drugs or money when they were suffering from withdrawals from heroin or opioids. Some were underage, the informant said. Heefner primarily used Facebook Messenger to communicate with victims, the informant said. His account name "Tim Bo" is the same name he would use to refer to himself in communications with the females, she added. The informant told police Heefner used a special vocabulary when communicating with victims. For example, an "oil change" referred to oral sex. The informant said Heefner offered to pay her what he called a "finder's fee" of $100 to recruit other victims, according to court documents. Most, if not all, of the informant's allegations were corroborated through phone records, social media records or testimony from other victims. Lighter news: How long will the flamingos stay in Franklin County? 'I'm the big pimp of the East Coast,' Heefner allegedly tells inmate A corporal with Chambersburg Police Department was aware of reports that Heefner used his employment as a constable to have inappropriate contact with females and that he engaged in sex acts with females "significantly" younger than him. Waynesboro police had received similar reports. Heefner had also been the subject of an investigation in 2017-18 regarding inappropriate communication with female inmates at Franklin County Jail. Police obtained phone calls, messages and account and financial records associated with Heefner and female inmates from Franklin County Jail this January. On many of the calls, Heefner could be heard using the same auto-repair terms to refer to sex acts as the first informant described. During a call on May 5, 2020, Heefner told a female inmate he worked as a constable and discussed his duties before moving the conversation to his other activities, according to the report. He also talked about "people thinking that he is a 'pimp worldwide and I'm trafficking people in 51 countries,'" and afterward said, "man, I wish." On a call on June 4, 2021, Heefner asked a female inmate to tell his "friends" hello. He also made the comment, "Life's like a corndog man, ya know, the b-----s only want some w----r if you got bread around it," according to the report. On another call 10 days later, Heefner talked about a "'sugar daddy' prepaid card," the report states. In the same call, he also called himself "the big pimp of the East Coast," and said "I'm from Germany man, I bring these b-----s all over the world here, man," according to the report. There were several calls in which Heefner made comments toward police he believed may be listening: "Hey cops if you're listening remember that, remember that I got a new Sugar Daddy Card." After referring to an "oil change," he said, "that's for the cops so they have something to laugh about." "That's why they constantly listen to my calls, because they think I'm like some f----n' international pimp, because I got so many women." Police also obtained Heefner's jail calls from this year. He "frequently stated that there were 'rats' in the Franklin County Jail, apparently referring to female inmates who were providing law enforcement with information regarding his sexual crimes," according to court documents. Law enforcement also accessed 33,000 pages of Heefner's Facebook records on Jan. 3, 2022. Police identified more than 20 females whom Heefner either communicated with directly or solicited for sex. "Heefner appeared to conduct this activity by messaging these females throughout the daytime hours so it appeared as though he may have been soliciting sexual acts for money during the course of his active employment as a PA Constable," court documents state. Share your input: Franklin County planners want your ideas for improving Interstate 81 Victims share similar stories with grand jury The grand jury began receiving evidence and testimony on Jan. 13, 2023. Eleven witnesses testified under oath and explained Heefner "regularly and systematically provides young, vulnerable women with money for drugs in exchange for sex." The grand jury's statement continued: "These young women, mostly his victims and mostly broken in many ways, reported that Heefner also directly exchanged controlled substances for sex. It has become clear that these young women were specifically targeted or preyed upon due to their addiction and desperation, and that Heefner personally hunted them and benefited from their vulnerabilities by facilitating their access to drugs." Victims shared a number of similar stories and corroborated one another's version of events. A number of victims testified not only were they not attracted to Heefner and only interacted with him because he gave them money or drugs, but that he controlled their access to drugs because he was their source of money to buy them. One victim testified that Heefner would also facilitate drug transactions because he knew his control over his victims was tied to their addictions. "He knew if he wanted to keep them hooked, he needed to have somebody who had what they wanted," she said. Victims testified that Heefner would initially claim he was a retired constable, but then would refer to being actively employed as a means to threaten them. A victim said, "Heefner also told young females that if they didn't perform a sexual act or engage in sexual intercourse, he could get them into trouble through his job as a PA State Constable. One victim said she threatened to call the police, leading Heefner to threaten that his 'people' were watching to keep her in line. This was part of Heefner's 'different side' if he wouldn't get what he wanted," according to the grand jury report. Heefner allegedly kept "spreadsheets" to keep track of his "sugar babies," the sex acts they performed for him, dates, and how much money he gave them. One victim said she knew of 80 victims, while another said she believed there were around 100. He kept a ranking of his victims and would take his "top girls" on trips and shopping sprees, one victim testified. A number of victims described Heefner showing off a T-shirt depicting various sex toys and sex-related words. They also said Heefner liked to design custom T-shirts describing locations where he met females for sex. Several victims shared similar descriptions of Heefner's apartment on North Main Street in Chambersburg. Some described a wall that he would have females sign. One victim said she saw 20 toothbrushes with females' names on them, and another said she saw many "packets" with toothbrushes and toothpaste in his bathroom closet. Other victims described Heefner providing a toothbrush and other supplies to help them "clean up" after sex. Here are some highlights from the victims' testimonies: Victim 1: She said she went to Heefner's residence to clean, she believed. When he exposed himself and propositioned her for sex, she agreed out of fear. She testified she was "financially desperate and needed money to help pay for rent," leading her to have relations with him for money about 15 times. Victim 2: She said she met Heefner through a friend, whom he paid for setting them up. Heefner gave her an "allowance" of about $120 a week using a pre-paid card. In confirming Heefner's "vocabulary" for sex acts, she said it was her belief that "tires rotated" referred to "full-on sex." Victim 3: She testified Heefner first propositioned her mother, who was in jail, before turning his attention to her and soliciting her for sex at least 20 times. In exchange for sex acts with her, he would put money on her mother's jail account. The victim added that Heefner attempted to make her engage in sex with other males he knew. Victim 4: She testified she was 16 when Heefner first contacted her on Facebook and 17 when he solicited her for sex for the first time (police confirmed this information using the Facebook records). She said Heefner also bought her alcohol in exchange for oral sex from her and an underage friend. Victim 6: Heefner also drove her and another female to Baltimore, New Jersey, North Carolina and other locations to buy drugs, she said. She said on one trip to Baltimore, Heefner "personally went into a building to buy drugs for her." After they returned from one of these trips, she testified, Heefner raped her when she turned down his request for sex. Victim 7: She testified she was 15 or 16 when she met Heefner through a friend, who was 14 or 15. The victim told the grand jury that Heefner "won't do nothing unless you do something up front." Victim 11: Having heard about Heefner's activities from a friend (a victim who also testified), she testified that she reached out to Heefner on her own because she had a new baby and was desperate for money. She was in and out of jail, and said Heefner was a "big topic" among the female inmates. She said he was aware of the grand jury investigation. A twelfth victim agreed to work with police and record a meeting with Heefner. Police listened live as the woman met Heefner in the parking lot of Coyle Free Library before going into his nearby apartment. She was told to leave if he asked for sex. The "conversation with Heefner surreptitiously provided investigators with information regarding the previously described items of evidence of his human trafficking," the grand jury report states. Search warrants turn up items described by victims Investigators executed a search warrant four days later. Heefner was home and appeared to be wearing the same T-shirt he had on when police recorded the informant's visit, which featured a cartoon of an elderly man and young female and the statement, "Sugar daddies have more fun." Items seized included: a blanket with pictures of females travel kit/toothbrush kit with the initials "MT" and "FF" several "Sugar Daddy" Visa pre-paid cards more than 100 letters from female inmates articles and pictures of females A later search of his cellphone turned up a "ledger," similar to the spreadsheets described by several victims. Police determined Heefner kept track of about 50 victims. Police also found several deleted videos of females performing sex acts with Heefner. Police said it appeared he recorded the videos without the victims' knowledge. What is a constable? Heefner was elected constable for Chambersburg borough's Fourth Ward, election records show. The deputy clerk in the Franklin County Commissioner's Office, Jean Byers, said it appears he was first elected via write-ins in 2015 and was re-elected in 2021. Considered law enforcement officers, constables have the authority to make arrests (with or without a warrant) for felonies and breaches of peace, according to constablepa.us. They perform services for magisterial district courts and are mandated to protect the polls on election days. Heefner's preliminary hearing is set for 8:30 a.m. Sept. 26 in Franklin County Central Court. Amber South can be reached at asouth@publicopinionnews.com. This article originally appeared on Chambersburg Public Opinion: Chambersburg constable bragged about 50 'sugar babies': grand jury A husband and father of two was struck and killed by a water main cap at a construction site in Wisconsin, officials say. Officers with the Pleasant Prairie Police Department responded to the site of a road construction project at about 3 p.m. Sept. 13, after an injury was reported, the department said in a news release. The man, later identified as 34-year-old Cody Nelson, suffered serious injuries and died at the scene, police said. Investigators with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration also arrived at the scene, and the agency is leading an investigation into the incident, according to police. Nelson was working on a water main at the construction site when he was fatally struck, according to a Department of Labor news release. The new section of watermain was capped about 8 weeks ago after installation of about 1000 feet of new pipe that was an extension of an existing pipe, the release said. When the worker went to remove the cap to continue work on the pipe, the pressure from the water blew the cap off and struck the worker. OSHA has six months to carry out its investigation and to determine if there were any safety violations at the site, according to the release. Nelson leaves behind a wife and two children, according to his obituary. He loved the outdoors and hunted, fished, and snowboarded avidly. He was a great vocalist, singing in bands with his family from childhood on, the obituary read, but Cody loved his family most of all. Family and friends, including Nelsons 48 cousins, have rallied around his wife and kids following his death, WTMJ reported. We called him the In-Cody-ble Hulk, cousin Kent Sanderson told the outlet. He was our bulldog. When things get really tough and you want to give up, he pushed through it and we always got it done. Hes going to be so missed. Pleasant Prairie is roughly 35 miles south of Milwaukee. 16-year-old caught in machine dies at poultry plant, feds say. Investigation underway Dad and son die in plane crash while practicing takeoff, landing in Texas, officials say 18-year-old worker fell from roof and died. Death could have been prevented, feds say Dad charged with murder after 10-year-old son dies in rollover crash, TX officials say Ruta Ignatova, the infamous Cryptoqueen, remains a fugitive after getting on a plane and vanishing six years ago. But her former partner is going to prison. A New York federal judge has sentenced Karl Sebastian Greenwood to 20 years behind bars for his role in a global cryptocurrency scheme that scammed investors out of more than $4 billion. Ignatova boarded a flight in Sofia, Bulgaria, in October 2017 and vanished, leaving Greenwood and her other business partners to take the fall for their failed company. Shes been on the run since and remains the only woman on the FBIs 10 Most Wanted list. More than 3 million people invested in the pairs fraudulent cryptocurrency, OneCoin, making it one of the largest global fraud schemes ever perpetrated, US Attorney Damian Williams said. Greenwood, 46, is a citizen of Sweden and the United Kingdom. Federal prosecutors say his mastery as a salesman helped build OneCoins initial success. Greenwood and his co-conspirators, including fugitive Ruja Ignatova, conned unsuspecting victims out of billions of dollars with promises of a financial revolution and claims that OneCoin would be the Bitcoin killer, Williams said in a statement after the sentencing last week. In fact, OneCoins were entirely worthless, and investors were left with nothing, while Greenwood lined his own pockets with over $300 million. The pair knew it was a scam from the start, prosecutors say Prosecutors say Greenwood and Ignatova leveraged Bitcons success to capitalize on the scheme. Ignatova called herself the Cryptoqueen and touted their company as a lucrative rival to Bitcoin in the growing cryptocurrency market. In two years, nobody will speak about Bitcoin anymore, she said at a splashy investor event in London the year before she disappeared. But authorities said OneCoin was a pyramid scheme that defrauded investors in the US and around the globe. Court documents say Ignatova and Greenwood were aware from the start that their ambitious venture was a Ponzi scheme. While they were working on the concept for OneCoin, they referred to it in emails as a trashy coin, federal officials said in court documents. The documents show Greenwood described their investors as idiots and crazy in an email. Ruja Ignatova speaks during the 2016 event in London. - From Cryptoqueen/Facebook It might not be (something) really clean or that I normally work on or even can be proud of (except with you in private when we make the money), Ignatova wrote to Greenwood in 2014. She also proposed an exit strategy should the company fail, saying in a 2014 email to Greenwood that they should take the money and run and blame somebody else for this. Prosecutors allege thats exactly what she did. And in July 2018, nine months after Ignatova went missing, Greenwood was arrested at his home in Koh Samui, Thailand, and extradited to the US. He used the money to buy homes and a yacht Ignatova and Greenwood started pitching OneCoin to investors in Europe, New York and other cities in 2014. They hosted online webinars and conferences where they urged potential investors to deposit funds in an account that would enable the purchase of OneCoin packages, according to a federal indictment. OneCoin operated as a multilevel marketing network in which investors received commissions for recruiting others to buy cryptocurrency packages, federal prosecutors said. The packages catered to various income levels, from starter to tycoon trader. The partners promised buyers a fivefold or even tenfold return on their investment, according to court documents. Prosecutors say Greenwood used the flood of cash from investors to buy luxury designer clothes, footwear, watches, a yacht and homes in various countries, including Spain, Dubai and Thailand. He also used investor funds to travel the world in a private OneCoin jet, prosecutors say. Greenwood pleaded guilty in December to wire fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to launder money. In addition to his prison term, he was ordered to forfeit about $300 million. We hope this lengthy sentence resonates in the financial sector and deters anyone who may be tempted to lie to investors and exploit the cryptocurrency ecosystem through fraud, Williams said. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Cubas leader Miguel Diaz-Canel, landed Sunday in New York on his second visit to the United States to participate in several engagements during the week of meetings of the United Nations General Assembly, the largest yearly gathering of world leaders. The visit follows a busy weekend in which Diaz-Canel hosted a summit in Havana of the group known as the G-77+China, an organization that grew out of the U.N. non-aligned movement and now includes 123 developing nations. Diaz-Canel confirmed the news of his visit to the United States, first reported by the Miami Herald, on social media Sunday morning. Diaz-Canels agenda kicks off with a closed-door meeting Monday morning with U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee D-CA, a long-term supporter of normalizing relations with Cuba and a U.S. delegation member to the U.N.s 78th General Assembly. Later in the morning, he is scheduled to give a brief speech at the political forum on sustainable development convened by the United Nations. He was invited to speak as the current chairman of the G-77 plus China, which provides a rallying point for Diaz-Canel to deliver Cubas long-term policy views on promoting a new multilateral global order to counter U.S. influence. He is likely to talk about the impact of sanctions on the right to development, a reference to the U.S. embargo that Cuba inserted on the final declaration by the group that met in Havana. But the trip offers Diaz-Canel a unique opportunity to lash out at the United States on a world stage, and a top Cuban official said he expects other countries to advocate for lifting the U.S. embargo. All possible spaces will be taken advantage of in that international forum to condemn the criminal blockade against Cuba and the unilateral coercive measures against any country, as well as all colonialist, hegemonist, interfering and discriminatory practices in international relations, said Rodolfo Benitez Verson, an official at the Cuban Foreign Ministry. The United States attempts to isolate Cuba have failed miserably, Diaz-Canel said in an interview published Sunday on the official website of the Cuban Office of the Presidency. On Tuesday, during the general debate when world leaders give speeches, Diaz-Canel will speak sixth in the same morning session as President Joe Biden. On Wednesday morning, the Cuban leader will participate in a round table discussion about fostering debt sustainability. Cuba, which is not a member of the World Bank or the International Monetary Fund, last reported a foreign debt of $19.7 billion in 2020 and has failed to pay annual installments in recent years to the Paris Club, a group of officials from major creditor countries to which it owes around $2.6 billion. Diaz-Canel traveled with his wife, Lis Cuesta, and a delegation of government officials from the ministries of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Investment and Public Health, among others. The minister of Public Health, Jose Angel Portal Miranda, will participate in a meeting on universal health coverage on Thursday. While Cubas public health system is free, its infrastructure and services have crumbled from lack of government investment, and basic supplies and medicines are scarce. Diaz-Canel first traveled to the United States shortly after Gen. Raul Castro appointed him as his successor to the presidency in 2018. On that occasion, he, attended the U.N. General Assembly, met with representatives of American companies, politicians like then New York Mayor Bill de Blasio, and dined and danced with his supporters at an event at the Cuban embassy in Washington. This time, he is also likely to hold events on the sidelines of the U.N.s official agenda. News of Diaz-Canels visit to the United States has drawn criticism from Cuban exiles, activists and Cuban American politicians who pointed out his government is holding around 1,000 political prisoners and that he is personally responsible for the crackdown on hundreds of demonstrators who took it to the streets in 2021 calling for political freedoms. Cuban Freedom March, a non-profit group advocating for democratic rights in Cuba, and Cubadecide, an organization advocating holding free elections on the island, organized a protest that will take place on Thursday afternoon in front of the U.N. headquarters and will later turn into a march. The Cuban regime has not held democratic elections in 64 years, denying the Cuban people their right to choose their leaders. This violates the U.N. Charters principles of self-determination., the two groups said in a statement. Furthermore, more than a thousand political prisoners, including 37 minors, languish in Cuban jails for their beliefs. This oppression is unacceptable. Later that day, the Human Rights Foundation will host an event moderated by Cubadecides coordinator and activist, Rosa Maria Paya, titled: The Cuban regime poses an international threat. Nicaraguas Daniel Ortega and Venezuelas Nicolas Maduro, the other two dictators in the region, are skipping the General Assembly but greeted Diaz-Canel in Havana as they participated in the G-77 summit that took place on Friday and Saturday. A man told police he was visiting friends when his car disappeared with his 9-month-old child inside, police in Alabama say. However, authorities discovered that wasnt the whole truth. Now the father is facing drug and child endangerment charges, according to the Parrish Police Department. The 30-year-old was arrested and booked into the Walker County Jail, police said in a Sept. 17 news release. His arrest comes more than two months after he was accused of leaving his infant in a running car that vanished during a drug deal. Investigators said the man drove to a home in Parrish on July 10 and went inside to do the deal. At some point, he realized his car wasnt in the driveway. He went looking for his car for several minutes with no luck and called police, according to authorities. It was 12 hours before officers found the baby in the car, which was completely covered in kudzu 80 yards down an embankment across the street from the house. Police didnt provide details on the childs condition but said she was safe. The babys father was among two other men, including a 45-year-old and a 19-year-old, charged in the incident, according to authorities. Police said a gun and drugs were found in the home. Agents with the FBI and Department of Homeland Security, among others, helped investigate the case, Police Chief Danny Woodard said in a statement. Police didnt release additional information but said the investigation is ongoing. Parrish is about 40 miles northwest of Birmingham. Mom locks 6-year-old son out of car, then hes killed trying to get in, CA cops say Day care worker abused kids by throwing them onto the ground, Pennsylvania cops say Mom chauffeured her 17-year-old son before and after fatal shooting, Kentucky cops say FILE - Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, heads to a vote before a national security briefing on Ukraine, at the Capitol in Washington, on March 16, 2022. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File) Mitt Romney's announcement this week that he will not seek another term in the U.S. Senate came with a distant echo of his fathers departure from politics five decades ago. Mitt and his father, George Romney, at one time were top Republican contenders for the presidency, but fell short of the White House. Both ended their careers in elected office with a sense their party had lost its bearings. And both called for a more humane party, one that prioritizes civility and principle over resentments and score-settling. In eras 50 years apart, George and Mitt Romney found themselves isolated in a GOP increasingly uninterested in their brand of genteel, country-club conservatism. In following a path forged by his father, sometimes with eerie similarities, Mitt Romney became the latest in a line of prominent establishment Republicans who pushed back against Donald Trump 's vision for the party, only to become isolated. Liz Cheney, who has declared it her mission to ensure Trump never returns to the Oval Office, was ousted in her U.S. House primary in Wyoming last year; Jeff Flake of Arizona opted not to run again for the U.S. Senate in 2018, condemning the flagrant disregard of truth and decency. That same year, Arizona Sen. John McCain, an unflinching Trump critic, died. Mitt Romney's career in business and politics included co-founding a private equity firm, being the savior of the Salt Lake City Olympics, serving as governor of Massachusetts and winning the GOP presidential nomination. He entered Election Day of 2012 at the doorstep of becoming the nations 45th president. Today, he is stepping back believing that Trump, who did become the 45th president in 2016 and is the partys front-runner for the 2024 nomination, has led the GOP and the country away from some of their most cherished constitutional principles. The nations many challenges call for a younger generation of leaders, the 76-year-old Romney said in his announcement Wednesday. He said the United states would be better served if Democratic President Joe Biden, 80, and Trump, 77, stepped aside from the 2024 campaign. How Romney went from Republican standard-bearer to outlier coincided with Trump's takeover of the GOP and the rise of the populist, anti-elite movement he leads. Romney was the only Republican senator to vote twice to impeach Trump. Romney was one of the few elected Republicans willing to criticize Trump in public, and he felt the pressure from his party's base. Skirmishes with the base were familiar for Romney, who was a teenager when his father first won elected office. George Romney was a six-year governor of Michigan in the 1960s and clashed with Barry Goldwater, the Arizona senator who was the partys 1964 presidential nominee, over the Civil Rights Act. The elder Romney was seen as a leading GOP contender for president in 1968, but his candidacy collapsed, fueled in part by a gaffe in explaining his change of position on the Vietnam War. FILE - In this May 18, 1964, file photo Gov. George Romney and his son, Mitt, look out over the New York World's Fair grounds from the heliport after attending a Michigan breakfast at the Top of the Fair Restaurant. The governor and a large delegation from Michigan were there for Michigan Day at the fair. At right is part of the Chrysler exhibit and behind them is the Ford exhibit. (AP Photo, File) Richard Nixon won the Republican nomination and was elected president that year. He appointed Romney to head the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, where Romney worked toward racial integration and clashed with the president. George Romney was a gladiator with an appetite for political combat, particularly with his partys right wing, said Geoff Kabaservice, a scholar at the center-right Niskanen Center who has written about the GOP's rightward shift since the 1960s. Mitt Romney took on the more diplomatic persona of his mother, Lenore Romney, who ran for Senate from Michigan in 1970. The younger Romney campaigned hard for his mother, who eked out a narrow victory in a contentious, ideologically driven primary. That fight hurt her in the general election, which she lost overwhelmingly. Mitt Romney was willing on an individual basis to stand up against Donald Trump. But Mitt Romney was not interested in trying to lead a Republican revolt against Trump, Kabaservice said. And Trump ultimately was willing to tear the Republican Party apart if he didnt get his way. Mitt Romney spoke wistfully of his father's political era when talking to Utah-based reporters this week. Its hard for me to imagine what the party was like during his time, Romney said, remembering a time when Americans respected members of other political parties even when they disagreed. I think weve become more suspicious of people on the other side of the aisle, he said. In part thats the result of social media that feeds us stories and information that we find interesting through an algorithm that actually encourages resentment and anger. He said he belongs to the wise wing of the Republican Party." Romney said he's not retiring from the fight" but did not share any specific plans for after he leaves office in January 2025. FILE - Mitt Romney, right, chairman of the Boston-based management consulting firm Bain and Company, acknowledges the crowd after announcing his candidacy as a Republican for the U.S. Senate seat held by Sen. Edward Kennedy, D-Mass, in Boston Feb. 2, 1994. With Romney on stage are, from left to right, his mother Lenore Romney, his father George Romney, former governor of Michigan and one-time presidential candidate, and wife Ann. (AP Photo/Jon Chase, File) He's often been the subject of speculation about running an independent campaign for president, including as a potential candidate for No Labels, a group that is preparing to run a moderate ticket for president. No Labels has had no engagement at all with Romney regarding a presidential run as part of the groups potential third-party bid, according to a No Labels senior official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to disclose private discussions. But the groups leaders released a statement late Wednesday lauding Romney as an exceptional public servant. We welcome Sen. Romney to support our movement and the will of most Americans for more options in the 2024 election, they said. Romney considered an independent bid for president in 2024 but concluded it would only serve to help Trump get back to the White House, according to an excerpt of an upcoming biography by McKay Coppins, a journalist for The Atlantic who interviewed Romney extensively. Romney said he decided months ago not to run again for the Senate. He was dismayed by what he saw as an authoritarian current rising in the GOP, and also cognizant of his advanced age. A very large portion of my party really doesnt believe in the Constitution," he told Coppins. Romney's departure from the political scene leaves an open question about the type of Republican who will succeed him in Utah, a deeply Republican state where the majority of residents are, like Romney, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, known widely as the Mormon church. Many church members find Trump's infidelity, profanity and anti-immigrant rhetoric anathema to their faith. The state has elected both Romney, the most outspoken Republican Trump critic in the Senate, and Sen. Mike Lee, a brash conservative. Until recently, at least, the state's version of Republicanism made room for both. Its unclear what direction Utah voters will go," said Christopher F. Karpowitz, a political science professor at Brigham Young University. Is the next senator going to be more in the mold of Mike Lee or more in the mold of Mitt Romney? I think thats the open question at this point. ___ AP National Political Writer Steve Peoples in New York contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on St. George Spectrum & Daily News: Like his dad, retiring Mitt Romney embraced moderate conservatism. He fears the GOP has lost its way In a file photo from earlier this year, residents opposed to Bridge Industrial's plan to redevelop the current Baxter International headquarters site into a large industrial and recreational complex display signs urging Baxter or local leaders to reject the proposal. (- Original Credit: News-Sun (Caron Blitz / HANDOUT)) Amid the fervent battle to stop a logistics center from being built at the Baxter International headquarters, one Riverwoods resident told me: We aint no ordinary, common NIMBYs. This is not going to happen in our backyard. Seems he was right. Stopping the mega-warehouse plan was a rare win for those hoping to stem the tide of development, especially logistic centers. Advertisement Either due to a changing business climate or Baxter wanting to be a munificent corporate neighbor, the company has decided to keep its sprawling 101-acre property off the Tri-State Tollway in-house for office space. It is worth an estimated $90 million. Plans are underway to improve the Deerfield campus, ensuring that colleagues in business segments are seated together, Baxter CEO Joe Almeida said in a letter to employees, according to a News-Sun front page story last week by Chloe Hilles. We are also evaluating how we can best utilize our footprint more efficiently across northern Illinois. Advertisement Last year, the hospital products company announced it was selling its 645,688-square-foot headquarters in unincorporated Deerfield with plans to fashion hybrid in-office/remote assignments at another locale. Chicago-based Bridge Industrial then put in an offer for the land and submitted plans to the village of Deerfield. The company wanted to annex the property, which opened in 1972, to the village and rezone it for a massive logistics center. That didnt sit well with the hundreds of homeowners in the nearby Riverwoods subdivision, which sits across Saunders Road from the Baxter site. Worried over quality-of-life issues, they vehemently protested the warehouse scheme. Thousands signed petitions against the rezoning proposal; hundreds attended Deerfield Plan Commission sessions. Opponents hired their own zoning attorneys and land-use experts. Eventually, they forced Bridge to end its quest to turn the property into a warehouse district in Deerfield, with the firm turning to Lake County for a possible reset. The plans remained in limbo, with Bridge apparently jettisoning the entire project. Baxter since has decided to keep the property. The nearby homeowners were successful in stopping their neighborhood from being invaded by increased traffic, noise and diesel-spewing semitrailers checking in at the proposed distribution center. We are happy to see that we were victorious in preserving the integrity of our community, said Caron Blitz, an opposition leader told Hilles. It (was) probably one of the most amazing grassroots efforts Ive certainly ever seen. Meanwhile, Baxters overall game plan is unclear, as executives decide what to do with a property they originally werent keen on keeping in the corporate portfolio. Large headquarter sites run counter to what most firms are doing post-pandemic. Many companies have realized they need less office space due to more telecommuting and flexible work options available for employees. Naturally, development, construction and management of logistics parks have followed. Drive south along the Tri-State Tollway to Willow Road and the former Allstate Insurance Co. headquarters, a Northbrook area fixture since 1967, is nearly razed. The Good Hands People sold the property, which is being repurposed into a logistics center and other uses. Advertisement In Lake County, much of Waukegan Road, from Route 120 south to Buckley Road, has been turned into giant logistic centers. New logistics centers have been built in recent years along Milwaukee Avenue in Vernon Hills, and along Route 60-83 in Mundelein. Warehouse space remains in high demand and is at a premium not only in the Chicago area, but across the nation. Speculative buildings and build-to-suit structures are requested by companies to ensure their product pipelines and supply-chain issues remain uninterrupted. Bridge Industrial, stymied in its plan to transform the Baxter land, is one of the regional firms California-based Panattoni Development Co. is another converting outdated real estate into refurbished logistics project. Those developments add to community tax bases, increased building fees and the regions overall job market. Targeted, partly as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and working from home protocols, are former suburban office and research parks. Seems unless forced back into an office, most in the white-collar workforce dont relish returning to cubicle farms. For that hardy band of Riverwoods NIMBYs, some who may be toiling from home, keeping the quality of life in their slices of suburbia was paramount. They kept development at bay. This time. Charles Selle is a former News-Sun reporter, political editor and editor. Advertisement sellenews@gmail.com. Twitter: @sellenews Dallas police have released the body-camera footage showing an officer shot by a fleeing murder suspect Thursday. Officers Derek Williams and Christopher Mazin were called to the 4800 block of Scyene Road around 1:25 p.m. Thursday and found 45-year-old Juan Vicente Zavala Lopez shooting into a vehicle, according to a police statement. Zavala Lopez fled the scene in a white pickup truck and the officers pursued him to the 4800 block of Second Avenue. Zavala Lopez then turned around the truck and began firing at officers as he sped past, police said. Officer Williams was hit in bullet-proof vest, and was later treated at an area hospital before being released. Police tracked Zavala Lopez to a barn in the 2300 block of South Valley Parkway in Lewisville, where he was arrested by a Dallas police SWAT team. One of the victims of the shooting at Scyene Road, Ruperto Mondragon Salgado, died at the scene, according to Dallas police. A second unnamed man who was with Salgado was unharmed, according to police. Zavala Lopez has been charged with murder and aggravated assault in the shooting on Scyene Road and four counts or aggravated assault on a peace officer, Deputy Chief Terrence Rhodes said in a video statement. Detectives determined the initial shooting between the suspect and the victim was not random and they knew each other. Thursday afternoons incident was the ninth shooting involving a Dallas police officer in 2023. A routine by stand-up comic Daniel Sloss has resurfaced after he was the only comedian to go on the record and speak about Russell Brand. On Saturday (16 September), actor Brand was accused of sexually assaulting four women between 2006 and 2013. The allegations were made in a joint investigation by The Times, The Sunday Times and Channel 4s Dispatches. Brand has vehemently denied the allegations, insisting that his prior relationships have been absolutely always consensual. Follow The Independents live coverage for the latest updates Scottish performer Sloss featured in both the Dispatches documentary and The Times report, where he said that hed first heard rumours of Brands alleged behaviour more than 10 years ago. The 33-year-old said that female comics had set up online groups to warn each other about men to avoid in the comedy industry. I know for many, many years that women have been warning each other about Russell, he said. I know there are comedians who have made references in jokes to Russells alleged crimes and have either been asked or told not to do those jokes any more. daniel sloss being the only comedian to speak on the record against russell brand, rare actual ally pic.twitter.com/STMtypHzzD (@ohsnapthfc) September 16, 2023 In response to his involvement in the report, fans referred to Sloss as a rare actual ally in the comedy industry. Many shared a clip taken from his 2019 HBO special X, in which Sloss discusses the importance of speaking out about sexual assault. At the end of the special, Sloss talks about an incident in which his female friend was raped by another friend of his. The assault does not relate to the allegations made against Brand. I knew this man for eight years and he f***ing did it, Sloss said. There are monsters amongst us and they look like us. Sloss then said that men have to get involved and actively challenge their friends on misogynistic behaviour. Dont make the same mistake that I did for years, which was just sitting back and being like, Well, Im not part of the problem, therefore I must be part of the solution because thats just not how this f***ing s*** works, he said. Sloss spoke in the documentary about Brand (Russell Brand: In Plain Sight, Dispatches/Channel 4) I believe and deep down I know that most men are good, of course, we are. But when one in 10 men are s*** and the other nine do nothing, they might as well not f***ing be there. Being good on the inside counts for absolutely f*** all. You have to actively do good and get involved. In the clip, Sloss continued: Instead of having this hero complex and being like Im going to beat up a rapist f***ing prevent one, stop one. I know it can be done because I know how I f***ing failed at it. Because if Im being 100 per cent honest with myself, were there signs in my friends behaviour over the years towards women that I ignored? The answer is yes, and then he raped my friend, and thats on me until the day I die. Sloss began performing comedy as a teenager and was mentored by Frankie Boyle during his first Edinburgh Fringe run aged 17. At 19, the Fife comic became the youngest comedians to perform a solo season in Londons West End. He has two Netflix specials, titled Dark and Jigsaw, and has performed on US chat shows such as Conan. Rape Crisis offers support for those affected by rape and sexual abuse. You can call them on 0808 802 9999 in England and Wales, 0808 801 0302 in Scotland, and 0800 0246 991 in Northern Ireland, or visit their website at www.rapecrisis.org.uk. If you are in the US, you can call Rainn on 800-656-HOPE (4673) When police arrived at a home in Mount Healthy on July 5, 2020, they found 63-year-old Glenn Powell dead in the backyard with a yellow cylinder between his legs, ash on his shirt and a severe head injury, federal prosecutors said in court filings. Powell's wife told authorities hed been setting off fireworks and that she discovered him dead after she heard a large explosion. Police said at the time that Powell's death was unintentional and that he was setting off a mortar firework when he was struck. Paul Eberhard, 66, who prosecutors say illegally sold those fireworks to Powell, was sentenced Monday to three years of probation, according to records filed in federal district court in Cincinnati. The case was heard before U.S. District Judge Matthew W. McFarland. Eberhard pleaded guilty in September 2022 to a single count of distribution of explosive materials to a person without a license or permit, court records show. Eberhard bought explosives at least 79 times between 2016 and 2020, prosecutors said, and sold those inherently dangerous fireworks to unlicensed customers and then lied to federal authorities when first confronted about those sales. While Eberhard had an explosives permit from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, prosecutors said, he wasnt authorized to sell or distribute explosives to anyone who didnt have a license or permit, like Powell. Authorities found texts between Eberhard and Powell from the month before Powells death, with messages about purchasing fireworks, court records show. They also uncovered texts as far back as 2018 between Eberhard and others seeking to buy fireworks. His attorney has yet to respond to a message from The Enquirer seeking comment. Eberhard certainly did not intend for his illicit fireworks sales to kill anyone, prosecutors wrote in a sentencing memo. But this deadly consequence was certainly foreseeable and serves as a stark example of why the ATF regulations exist in the first place. Prosecutors recommended a sentence of probation noting in part Eberhards age, two misdemeanor convictions he received while his federal case was pending and the restitution he agreed to pay. Whether imprisoned or not, Eberhard will carry (Powells) death and his role in it on his conscience for the rest of his life, prosecutors said. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Man sentenced for fireworks sale that led to 63-year-old's death The Defence Forces of Ukraine have repelled Russian attacks near the settlement of Robotyne in Zaporizhzhia Oblast and almost 10 attacks near the settlement of Marinka in Donetsk Oblast. Source: General Staff report as of 18:00 on 18 September Details: The Ukrainian forces continue to conduct offensive operations on the Melitopol and Berdiansk fronts. In total Russia launched 17 missile strikes, 33 airstrikes and 26 attacks from multiple-launch rocket systems on the positions of the Ukrainian troops and on Ukrainian settlements during the day. Quote: "During the day the aircraft of the Defence Forces of Ukraine launched eight attacks on the areas where Russian manpower, armament and military equipment was concentrated. Ukrainian units of Rocker Forces and Artillery struck two areas where Russian manpower, armament and military equipment was concentrated, an anti-aircraft system, six artillery systems and a control point of the Russians." 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! Delaware's only HBCU remained among the top Historically Black Colleges and Universities ranked by U.S. News and World Report this week. On Monday, Delaware State University shared its position as the No. 3 public and No. 9 overall among more than 100 HBCUs across the country. Though falling one position in both sections from No. 2 and No. 8 last year it remains the third consecutive year Delaware State has landed in the top 10 overall, and the ninth within the public rankings' top 5. "This years ranking demonstrates our continued commitment to excellence in academic programming and student support services. I am proud of the work of our faculty and staff who continue to place the success of our students as their No. 1 priority, said Provost Saundra DeLauder in a statement. We will continue to strive to become the most diverse, contemporary HBCU in the country. Spelman College, Howard University and Florida A&M University secured the three top spots among private and public. Sports: How Deion Sanders praised former Delaware State star he recruited for key role in Colorado How these fellow HBCUs or institutions established before the Civil Rights Act aiming to foster African American students value each other in peer evaluation, alongside a six-year graduation rate, are two significant categories in the ranking system, Delaware State said Monday. The university now shares its No. 9 spot at a tie with Claflin University in South Carolina. Delaware State hopes to pair these rankings with continued expansion of its research portfolio and increased recruitment of male students in education. This follows growth in the Aviation Program, adding helicopter training to its roster, the launching of an Early Childhood Innovation Center, and the successful integration of Wesley College, now the home of College of Health and Behavioral Sciences at DSU Downtown. What the university deemed "most notable" in its rankings this year were momentum in retention and graduation, social mobility or success in graduating students from low-resource communities innovation and leadership in undergraduate teaching. The HBCU also unveiled some new logos last month, updating both its academic emblem and the hornet logo for university athletics. Refreshed branding was meant to capture DelState's growth over the last decade. Students line up for move-in as upperclassmen return to campus and University Village housing at Delaware State University in Dover, Saturday, August 26, 2023. The university has also battled some student unrest on campus since winter 2023, when students protested for improved campus safety and handling of sexual assault cases. University response is reportedly ongoing, as a Safe Space Coalition formed under President Tony Allen, alongside funding for a "Safe Space Project to be housed at DSU Downtown to assist in its sexual assault response and prevention program. Lynda Murray-Jackson, Delaware State's associate vice president of institutional effectiveness, said the strong ranking isn't about the trials but "is a testament to the consistent ability of our faculty and staff to deliver a quality education to our students, to achieve strong levels of student persistence, and to expand the ever-increasing profile of the institution." DSU president: 'It isn't what we say or think that defines us, but what we do' | Opinion Across institutions, U.S. News general methodology has come under fire as of late. More than a dozen medical schools and more than 40 law schools ranked in the span of a few months announced earlier this year they would no longer provide information to the outlet, which has ranked such programs since 1983. Here are the top placements of public and private HBCUs across the nation in the U.S. News & World Report 2023-2024 Best Colleges rankings: No. 1: Spelman College, private No. 2: Howard University, private No. 3: Florida A&M University, public No. 4: Tuskegee University, private No. 5: Morehouse College, private No. 6: Xavier University of Louisiana, private No. 7: Hampton University, private No. 7 North Carolina A&T University, public No. 9: Claflin University, private No. 9: Delaware State University, public Are you going? HBCU Week lands again in Wilmington with events, outreach: Education roundup Last fall: Colleges are shrinking. But HBCUs like Delaware State are riding a wave of their own This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware State University lands among the top 10 HBCUs in the country Senate Democrats on Monday moved to suspend the Senates rules to advance a stalled government funding bill after Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) objected to the legislation last week. Sen. Murray will move to suspend Rule XVI and file cloture on that motion, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) announced on the Senate floor. This is an effort to move forward on the minibus and keep the appropriations process on track here in the Senate, he explained. The Senate had been making good progress on the annual spending bills, passing all 12 of them out of the Senate Appropriations Committee with bipartisan support, until Johnson threw a wrench in the works last week. Johnson invoked Rule XVI, which effectively bars senators from expanding the scope of appropriations bills, to block Senate Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Patty Murray (D-Wash.) and Vice Chairwoman Susan Collins (R-Maine) from offering a substitute amendment to the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs appropriations bill. Their substitute amendment would have expanded the base bill into whats known as a minibus, funding military construction as well as the departments of Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, Transportation and Housing and Urban Development. Johnsons procedural objection brought last weeks Senate debate to a grinding halt, scuttling votes that were expected Thursday afternoon. Democrats struck back on Monday by advancing a motion to suspend the Senate rules, an ambitious move because it would need the support of 67 senators to pass. Its unfortunate that one member who does not represent the views of most senators prevented us from moving forward last week, Schumer said, referring to Johnson. Murray then stood up on the Senate floor to make a motion to suspend Rule XVI and said she hopes to get amendments to the minibus ready while the motion ripens. This is a package of bills which each of them passed the Appropriations Committee unanimously, and we have been working very hard in a bipartisan effort in good faith to set up a very robust process for amendments and debate, she said. Unfortunately, a few senators decided to object to us last week and now we are moving forward. She said the vote to suspend the rules would happen later this week. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, warned that suspending the Senates rules with a two-thirds vote is not an easy thing. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Democrats in the California Legislature are trying a novel approach to remove former President Donald Trump from the states March 5 primary ballot. But first they need a fellow state Democrat to get on board the long-shot effort. Nine California lawmakers wrote a letter to Attorney General Rob Bonta over the weekend, arguing that Trump isnt eligible to be on the ballot for inciting an insurrection when a mob of his supporters attacked the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. The move, which comes amid several lawsuits to keep Trump off state ballots across the country, is unique because Bonta could use his standing as Californias top law enforcement officer to expedite a state court ruling on the matter. Should the effort succeed, California could be the first state to bump Trump off its ballot, even if the ruling is ultimately overturned. Bonta would also be the countrys first state attorney general to take a swing at knocking Trump off the ballot. The other cases rely on secretaries of state. Like the suits in other states, the California case would argue that Trump is disqualified from the ballot because the 14th Amendment prohibits any public official who has been party to an insurrection from ever holding office again. We all watched in horror Mr. Trump's insurrection against the United States when he ordered a mob of his supporters to the United States Capitol on January 6, 2021 to intimidate Vice President Pence and the United States Congress, the lawmakers state in the letter which was obtained by POLITICO. Bontas office said he is reviewing the lawmakers request. A spokesperson added, There is no denying that Donald Trump has engaged in behavior that is unacceptable and unbecoming of any leader let alone a President of the United States. Taking on Trump in such a high-profile way could also bode well for the attorney generals political ambitions. Hes considering running for governor in 2026, when Gavin Newsom is termed out. Bonta, as the attorney general, has automatic standing to proactively ask a court for declaratory relief, a process where a judge can quickly rule on an unresolved legal question. The lawmakers asked Bonta for immediate intervention on the issue. Trump has pushed back against the campaign to keep him off the ballot, which has included legal challenges in New Hampshire, Minnesota, New Mexico and Colorado, though such attempts are in the early stages. Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung previously said it was a political attack that was stretching the law beyond recognition and compared it to the various criminal indictments against Trump, which the former president has described as witch hunts. There is no legal basis for this effort except in the minds of those who are pushing it, Cheung told POLITICO last month. Most efforts to remove Trump have focused on the theory that secretaries of state can unilaterally disqualify him on constitutional grounds. At least one lawsuit, brought by a voter, has already been filed in California calling on Secretary of State Shirley Weber to take action. Weber, however, hasnt ruled anything out. Her office told Playbook they are carefully reviewing this issue after receiving many requests to disqualify Trump. But Democratic secretaries of state have largely been skeptical about that approach, arguing that the U.S. Supreme Court is likely to be the final arbiter. The high court could also overturn a favorable ruling for Bonta, should he decide to answer his colleagues call. Assemblymember Evan Low, a Democrat from Silicon Valley who initiated the letter, said the strategy is all about pushing the courts to fast-track the matter. Dec. 8 is the deadline for Weber to declare which candidates are eligible for California's primary ballot, and state Democrats fear other attempts to disqualify Trump aren't moving fast enough. Whatever the courts decide it is important that they do so quickly to avoid further political strife, Low said, and the Attorney General is uniquely positioned to get the American people the answers we need to protect our Republic. The letter was also signed by Democratic Assemblymembers Alex Lee, Stephanie Nguyen, Kevin McCarty, Corey Jackson, Mike Gipson, Mike Fong and Phil Ting and state Sen. Josh Becker. Ukrainian forces have made progress in the area south and east of Robotyne in southern Ukraine, Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Malyar said in a post on her channel on the Telegram messenger app on Sept. 18. The Ukrainian Armed Forces are now consolidating the positions they have gained, Maylar said. Read also: Military explains effect of liberation of Robotyne in southern Ukraine In the south, Ukrainian troops are continuing to conduct an offensive on the Melitopol section of the front line, she said. Ukrainian counter-offensive Latest news Earlier, U.S. newspaper the New York Times reported that a new phase of Ukraine's counter-offensive has begun, with the main blow coming from the southeast, where Ukrainian soldiers are gradually advancing through minefields while under attack by Russian aircraft. Read also: Ukraine makes gains on Eastern Front with blindside move near Avdiivka U.S. newspaper the Wall Street Journal quoted an unnamed U.S. official as saying that Ukrainian Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi, commenting on criticism of the "slow pace" of the Ukrainian counter-offensive, had told U.S. officials that Ukrainian forces were on the verge of a breakthrough. Ukraines Defense Ministry officially confirmed the liberation of the village of Robotyne, in Zaporizhzhya Oblast on Aug. 28, a few days after Ukrainian troops had entered the settlement. Ukrainian forces are now moving further towards Novoprokopivka and Ocheretuvate, and have seen successes near Verbove, Ukraines military says. In early September, the commander of the Tavria operational and strategic grouping of troops, Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, said that the Ukrainian Armed Forces had broken through the first line of Russian defense on the southern front. Read also: Ukraines advance towards Tokmak may accelerate Estonian intelligence Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Malyar said on Sept. 11 that Ukrainian troops had liberated part of Opytne near Avdiyivka in Ukraines eastern Donbas region. The Ukrainian military announced on Sept. 17 that Ukrainian forces had liberated the village of Klishchiyivka south of the Russian-occupied ruins of Bakhmut. 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 Inkey List's Supersolutions line uses ingredients and formulation percentages that have been clinically proven to be effective. The Inkey List's Supersolutions line uses ingredients and formulation percentages that have been clinically proven to be effective. HuffPost may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently selected by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change. Even the most knowledgeable skin care aficionados would probably agree that the existing product landscape can be confusing. With new beauty brands cropping up daily and a rotation of ingredients claiming to perform better than the last, it can be difficult to adopt an effective regimen that works for you. 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Republican presidential candidate Ron DeSantis s campaign targeted former President Trump for his comments on abortion during a new interview with NBC News. The DeSantis War Room account attacked Trump on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, for selling out conservatives to win praise from corporate media or the Left. Trump says he will compromise with Democrats on abortion so that theyre nice to him: Both sides are going to like me. Then he says its a terrible thing babies with heartbeats are protected in Iowa, Florida, and South Carolina. Ron DeSantis will never sell out conservatives to win praise from corporate media or the Left. DeSantiss communications director Andrew Romeo piled on the platform, saying Trumps compromises with the Democrats brought disastrous results during his term. Weve already seen the disastrous results of Donald Trump compromising with Democrats: over $7 trillion in new debt, an unfinished border wall, and the jailbreak First Step Act letting violent criminals back on to the streets, Romeo wrote. Republicans across the country know that Ron DeSantis will never back down. The campaigns pushback followed an interview that aired Sunday with Meet the Press moderator Kristen Welker in which Trump said: Whats going to happen is youre going to come up with a number of weeks or months, youre going to come up with a number thats going to make people happy. Because 92 percent of the Democrats dont want to see abortion after a certain period of time. Welker then asked if Trump would sign a 15-week ban, after previously asking if he would sign a 15-week complete ban. Well, people are starting to think of 15 weeks, that seems to be a number that people are talking about right now, Trump said. I would sit down with both sides, and Id negotiate something and well end up with peace in that issue for the first time in 52 years. Im not going to say I would or I wouldnt. Trump used the exchange to go after the Florida governors six-week ban, a policy that was signed in April. I mean DeSanctus was willing to sign a five-week and six-week ban, Trump said. I think what he did was a terrible thing and a terrible mistake. But well come up with a number. But at the same time, Democrats wont be able to go out and six months, seven months, eight months and allow an abortion. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Kane County Chief Judge Clint Hull speaks during a panel discussion at Loyola University in Chicago on Sept. 7 about the new cashless bail system in Illinois. On Monday, Hull said things went smoothly in Kane County on the first day of the new system. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune) Monday marked a historic moment in criminal justice as Kane Countys courtrooms and those in the rest of Illinois moved to a cashless bail system for defendants charged with a crime. Now, judges decide whether defendants should be jailed until trial or set free without a cash bail. The decision depends on the severity of the crime, the defendants criminal history, their likelihood to flee and if the person poses a threat to the community, officials said. Advertisement The move is part of a larger criminal justice reform bill signed into law in Illinois in 2021 that saw several legal challenges which delayed its implementation. Advocates say the new cashless bail system rectifies longstanding inequities in the criminal justice system, including the practice of keeping defendants in jail before trial only because they cant afford to make bail. Advertisement Opponents have said the new law will allow violent people to be returned to the streets. Kane County Chief Judge Clint Hull said the countys courts had a successful first day implementing the new rules on Monday, in part thanks to a low level of cases. Kane County Associate Judge Salvatore LoPiccolo, tasked with presiding over pretrial hearings Monday through Friday, saw six cases Monday. Four people were released without bail and two had detention hearings in the afternoon. Of the two, only one person was detained. The number of people before the judge this morning was substantially lower than what he normally sees, Hull said. It could be that there werent a lot of arrests last night, or it could be that police when arresting used their discretion to cite release, meaning there were less people in front of us today. Only time will tell on that. The new process requires a lot more collaboration between judges, public defenders, court services, the sheriffs office and prosecutors, Kane County States Attorney Jamie Mosser said. With the new system, at 5:30 a.m., court services officials in Kane County arrive to find out who is on the list to appear in front of LoPiccolo, and begin collecting information, such as the defendants criminal history, to prepare a risk assessment, Hull said. Public defenders come in at 7 a.m. and meet in person with the defendant in jail instead of over Zoom, a new step that hasnt been done since before the pandemic. Operationally, police officers now have to bring defendants to the Kane County courtrooms instead of having them appear via Zoom from satellite jails. Hull said he was pleased to see everyone arrived on time Monday. Court begins at 10 a.m. and the state by that time will have had a chance to review all the cases coming in, officials said. Prosecutors can then file a detention petition before a judge if they believe a defendant should remain in custody. Advertisement At 1:30 p.m., the judge holds detention hearings where prosecutors must present clear evidence that detention is necessary because the defendant poses a threat to the safety of either a specific person or the community, according to officials. On Monday, only one person was detained in Kane County. LoPiccolo said he has a list of statutes to look at when deciding whether to detain someone. The one person who was detained was selected in part because of his previous criminal history and because of the details of the crime itself, officials said. The new practice requires more people in the courtroom than ever before, Mosser said. She had two to three assistant states attorneys there, including First Assistant Christine Bayer, who has taken a lead on implementation of the new rules, Mosser said. The Kane County Circuit Clerks Office had two clerks in the courtroom and Kane County Sheriff Ron Hain had to staff extra people in the holding area to get defendants to where they needed to be, Mosser said. We definitely needed more people to accommodate this law, Mosser said. Right now, I dont have a full division for the pre-trial release hearings and am having to utilize people from different divisions. Unless I am able to get three people into that unit, this isnt sustainable to take people out of their court calls to be able to do this. While Mosser said she didnt hear any reactions from defendants on the new cashless bail system, she has been fielding questions from law enforcement officers and from other states attorneys about the rules. Advertisement Kane County was one of three courts in Illinois chosen to pilot the new rules, which helped them get ahead of the curve, Hull said. All the pregame work and everything we did to prepare showed today, so there were no unanticipated issues or concerns that were raised, Hull said. Today was the first day we had real cases, but weve gone through it so many times and all the orders that were prepared worked out well. mejones@chicagotribune.com Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) defended former President Trumps policy on Russia on Sunday, after praise from Russian President Vladimir Putin spurred criticism from others in the GOP. The idea that Trump is some type of lackey for Putin thats just false, DeSantis told Howard Kurtz on Fox Newss MediaBuzz. He had a very, very strong Russia policy, DeSantis added. He actually provided a lot of support, defensive support for Ukraine. And so I think the idea that somehow he wants to be buddy-buddy with Putin, I know theres circles that say that, but I dont really see that as being the case. I think hes been strong. DeSantis continues to poll in second place behind Trump in the Republican primary, but he has struggled to close the gap despite Trumps mounting legal troubles. Putin in public remarks last week blasted the prosecutions of Trump as a sign of rot in the U.S. political system, and he praised the former presidents promise to bring Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky together to end the war within 24 hours of taking office. Putin said Trump says he will resolve all burning issues within several days, including the Ukrainian crisis. We cannot help but feel happy about it. We hear that Mr. Trump says that he will solve pressing problems in a few days, including the Ukrainian crisis. Well, this cannot but bring happiness. This is good, Putin said. Other Republicans jumped on Putins comments as proof of Trumps overly cozy relationship with the Russian dictator. Get it straight. Trump is under indictment because of his conduct. He played with fire and is getting burned, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, a fellow presidential candidate, wrote on X, formerly Twitter. And now his best buddy is coming to his defense. If you are on the same side as Putin, you might want to rethink your position Putin has now officially endorsed the Putin-wing of the Republican Party, wrote former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.), a longtime Trump critic. Putin Republicans & their enablers will end up on the ash heap of history. Patriotic Americans in both parties who believe in the values of liberal democracy will make sure of it. DeSantis also dodged a question asking him whether he believed Trump would halt aid to Ukraine if elected back to the White House. The Florida governor has said he does not support escalating the United Statess involvement in the war. He has also had to walk back comments he made describing the nature of Russias invasion of Ukraine as a territorial dispute. Meet the Press moderator Kristen Welker pressed the former president on Putins comments in an interview last week. I like that he said that because that means what Im saying is right, Trump said. I would get him into a room, I would get Zelensky into a room and I would get a deal worked out. Trump previously called the Russian president a genius for recognizing two breakaway territories in eastern Ukraine before Russias invasion of Ukraine. Trump also told Welker that he has a very good relationship with Putin, saying that it shouldnt be a negative thing. I got along with him really well, and thats a good thing, not a bad thing, Trump said. Getting along is OK. But I got along through strength. And the war would have never happened. Now what happened, its so bad. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. (Bloomberg) -- Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has reeled in wealthy Texas donors once loyal to former President Donald Trump , and hes heading to the state this week to make another pitch for his struggling presidential campaign. Most Read from Bloomberg There is big Texas money going to DeSantis, all over the state, said Roy Bailey, a Dallas executive who has hosted several DeSantis fundraisers and once served as the national finance co-chair for Trumps previous presidential campaign. The financial support Governor DeSantis is receiving here in East Texas indicates something far different than what the national polls indicate. The invitations for the Texas fundraisers include a deep bench of influential donors, indicating a shift in the state from what was once a Trump stronghold to a preference for DeSantis. Among the hosts listed are conservative mega-donor Richard Weekley, Fidelis Realty Partners Ltds Alan Hassenflu and Darwin Deason, the founder of Affiliated Computer Services, which he later sold to Xerox for $6.4 billion in 2010. Texas could prove to be a gold mine for DeSantiss political operation, which needs to bring in new donors to challenge Trump, the frontrunner for the GOP nomination. Its energy-dependent economy would benefit from DeSantiss plans to expand domestic fossil fuel production. As a bonus, his campaign finance director, Lauren Lofstrom, is a Texan. In oil-centric Midland on Wednesday, hell unveil his US energy policy, which will also call for reversing President Joe Biden s efforts to transition to electric cars and renewable energy. The speech, which will be held with an oil rig in the background, will kick off his appearances in the state. The campaign has been emphasizing his policy chops as it tries to differentiate DeSantis from other GOP candidates. Texas Money DeSantis has built up a strong base of support in Texas made up of people who arent inclined to support Trump: former supporters of Senator Ted Cruzs 2016 presidential bid, business-focused donors turned off by the former president, and former members of President George W. Bushs administration. Texas ranks fourth among states behind Florida, Nevada and California for generating the most cash for his campaign and allied super political action committee Never Back Down. The two groups collectively raised $3.1 million from donors there. But a successful three-day tour through the state could quickly multiply that figure. DeSantis is planning stops in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Tyler and Waco for six separate fundraising events Wednesday through Friday, according to invitations obtained by Bloomberg, in addition to meeting with individual donors. The fundraising blitz comes at a critical time for the campaign that had been burning through cash at an unsustainable rate over the summer and has faced a steady drop in the polls. To combat these problems, DeSantis fired roughly a third of his staff, replaced his campaign manager and focused most of his time in Iowa. To keep the slimmed-down operation afloat, DeSantis needs more money. Earlier: DeSantis Camp Hit by Gloom as Aides Worry Race Is Slipping Away The DeSantis campaign will have to publicly report their third quarter fundraising totals next month. Until then, its not clear exactly how much money it has. The campaign touted that the governor raised about $1 million in the 24 hours after the first Republican debate in August, but a spokesman declined to comment on the amount of money on hand. The Texas trip comes roughly four months before early voting starts in the Iowa caucuses, where DeSantis allies and advisers acknowledge the Florida governor must perform well in order to stay competitive in the GOP primary. Trump, who has been indicted four times, leads him by an average of 43.9 points in national polls, according to RealClearPolitics. Polls show President Trump beating Crooked Joe Biden in the general election, while Ron DeSanctus loses to Biden, said Trump spokesman Steven Cheung, using Trumps pejorative for the governor. Americans want to return to a prosperous nation and theres only one person who can do that President Trump. Fundraiser Hosts DeSantis fundraiser hosts disagree. The objective is to win the White House in 2024. The Republicans will not win the White House with former President Trump, said attorney Gaylord Hughey Jr. The reason I am so confident of that position is that President Trump does not have the support of independents and women, and Governor DeSantis does. Hughey is one of 47 hosts for a Thursday lunch for DeSantis in Tyler, a city of about 107,000 people east of Dallas. Hosts of events in Houston and Dallas include Ira Mitzner of real estate investment firm RIDA Development Corporation; Christopher Zook of CAZ Investments; Jay Adair of Copart, an online vehicle auction company; Monty Bennett, chief executive officer of Ashford Inc., an asset manager for primarily hospitality companies; and Jay Zeidman, a managing partner at the private equity firm Altitude Ventures. It cost $6,600 per person to attend both events. At the Houston fundraiser, we have a pretty influential host committee, said Zeidman. What excites me is that it is a combination of the usual suspects and next generation donors. I have a lot of peers who for the first time, like me, are writing big checks. --With assistance from Bill Allison. (Updates headline, adds details about energy speech in the sixth paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. On Saturday, August 28, a white supremacist armed with an AR-15 rifle murdered three Black people at a Dollar General Store in Jacksonville, Florida. The victims have now been laid to rest, but the atmosphere of racist violence, hatred and general antipathy towards Black and brown people in the Age of Trump continues. There will be more white supremacist hate crimes and terror attacks against Black America; this is the American Way and has been so for centuries. The Associated Press reports: Mourners at the funeral service for Angela Michelle Carr applauded the Rev. Al Sharpton as he criticized laws that allowed the gunman to buy an assault-style rifle years after he was involuntarily committed for a mental health examination. He also denounced white supremacists who demonstrated outside Disney World a week after the Aug. 26 killings in Jacksonville. "How many people have to die before you get up whether you're a Republican or a Democrat and say we've got to stop this and we've got to bring some sanity back in this country?" Sharpton said. "Have we gotten so out of bounds that we've normalized this stuff happening?" Carr, 52, worked as an Uber driver and was sitting in her idling car outside a Dollar General store when she was shot multiple times. The gunman then went inside and killed A.J. Laguerre, a 19-year-old store employee, as he tried to flee. Jerrald Gallion, 29, was fatally shot after walking through the front door with his girlfriend, who escaped. The Associated Press story continues: While they insisted the focus should be on Carr's life, ministers speaking at her funeral repeatedly criticized Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican presidential candidate who had made a "war on woke" a central issue of his campaign while downplaying the existence of racism. "Rhetoric and other policies and governors have made it comfortable for people to come out of the closet with their hatred of those of us whose skin has been kissed by nature's sun," Bishop Rudolph McKissick Jr., The Bethel Church's senior pastor, said during Carr's funeral. Writing at Jacksonville Today, Dan Scanlan highlights the response by Black clergy to the white supremacist killings: It is time to preach against a culture of violence and death, said the Rev. William Barber II, head of Repairers of the Breach. a group based in North Carolina that says it combats immoral and illegal policies against LGBTQ people, labor and voting rights, criminal justice and other policies that negatively affect the poor and marginalized. The movement aims to "take back the microphone" from lawmakers who spew hatred in their policies against others, Barber said. [....] "They are rising up to take back the mic from those who for far too long used the public mic to fill the airwaves with hateful and divisive lies about Black people, Black history, LBGTQ brothers and sisters, immigrants and women." Scanlan continues: The clergy all pointed to DeSantis, a Republican presidential nominee, for his push to relax gun laws, repeal diversity initiatives and stop what he terms "woke indoctrination" in schools. "A philosophy put forward by the governor of this state, a philosophy that has barred classroom lessons on race, and classroom lessons of sexual orientation and gender identity; a philosophy that blocked Advanced Placement African-American studies," said The Rev. Mark Thompson. "And we learned just yesterday that he is pushing to replace the SAT, which isn't great, with the CLT, the classic learning test which teaches everything Western and nothing modern or progressive." Rev. Sharpton, Rev. Barber II, and the other Black clergy quoted above are correct: Ron DeSantis (and other leading Republican politicians) have cultivated an environment that normalizes and encourages the type of white supremacist violence that killed three Black people on that horrible Saturday in Florida several weeks ago. The evidence is overwhelming and obvious. DeSantis has declared an Orwellian-thought crime war on "woke" and "critical race theory" in Florida which he intends to spread across the United States. In practice, this means the literal whitewashing of Black America's history (and the country's history more generally) to serve the supposed needs and interests of "white people" as part of a larger project of fascist patriotic education that is designed to squash resistance and create a compliant ignorant public. DeSantis' and the larger Republican fascist and white right's plans to erase the real history of Black America and the color line include teaching that white on Black chattel slavery was basically a type of jobs program and not a centuries-long institution of human trafficking, torture, rape, murder, war, dislocation, and exploitation on a global scale that killed many millions of Black people. Such a reading of history is inaccurate, based on lies and willful distortions of fact and historiography, intellectually dishonest, and is right-wing dogma and disinformation masquerading as "scholarship". Social theorist and cultural critic Henry Giroux, has correctly described DeSantis' weaponization of education in the service of a white supremacist fascist agenda as being an example of "apartheid pedagogy". In an essay at the LA Progressive, he explains: Apartheid pedagogy is about denial and disappearancea manufactured ignorance that attempts to whitewash history and rewrite the narrative of American exceptionalism as it might have been framed in in the 1920s and 30s when members of a resurgent Ku Klux Klan shaped the policies of some school boards. Apartheid pedagogy uses education as a disimagination machine to convince students and others that racism does not exist, that teaching about racial justice is a form of indoctrination, and that understanding history is more an exercise in blind reverence than critical analysis. Apartheid pedagogy aims to reproduce current systems of racism rather than end them. Apartheid pedagogy most ardent proponent is Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis who has become America's most prominent white supremacist. Apartheid pedagogy is a form of white supremacy; white supremacy is inherently violent. Apartheid pedagogy is not new. Its roots can be traced back to slavery, the end of Reconstruction, and the Jim and Jane Crow terror regime and "separate but equal". Today's attempts by the "conservative" movement to reverse the gains of the civil rights movement are but a continuation of that centuries-long white supremacist political project to protect and expand white privilege and white domination over every area of American life. Apartheid pedagogy as seen in DeSantis's Florida is also part of a much larger global project as seen in Orban's Hungary, Putin's Russia, and other parts of the "Western" world, to end multiracial pluralist democracy. DeSantis' intent is irrelevant; racism and white supremacy are not a matter of intent but of outcomes and results. For example, DeSantis has supported gerrymandering, voter suppression, voter harassment, voter intimidation, arrests for largely non-existent "voter fraud", and other policies targeting the Black community in Florida as a way of keeping him and other Republicans in power. Rolling Stone highlights how DeSantis still refuses to publicly and in direct terms condemn neo-Nazis and other white supremacists and to disavow their support of him. One of DeSantis's senior campaign staff members was recently fired after he posted a campaign video online that featured Nazi imagery. DeSantis and his spokespeople claim that they had no knowledge of the staffer's white supremacist politics. Such a denial has no credibility given the larger pattern of white supremacist and other racist behavior by DeSantis and his administration and supporters. The white supremacist mass murderer in Jacksonville envisioned himself as a soldier in that global struggle. Signaling his devotion to that evil cause, he wore a Rhodesian army patch on his tactical vest. DeSantis has repeatedly used fascist and other violent language and imagery including a promise to "slit throats" if he takes control of the White House in 2025. He is now promising to order extrajudicial killings of "drug dealers," i.e. brown people from Latin and South America, who are caught trying to cross the U.S.-Mexico border illegally while wearing backpacks. DeSantis has made no such threats about shooting white people who fit the same profile at the U.S.- Canada border. In all, such violent language is an example of what law enforcement and national security experts have termed "stochastic terrorism." In an excellent article at the Washington Post, historian Brooks Marmon makes this intervention: The efforts of DeSantis and other Republicans pushing to remake education policy and restrict the teaching of history resemble the information control strategies deployed by the government in Rhodesia (today's Zimbabwe) during the Cold War, as it tried to avert the global tide of decolonization. The leaders of this White settler colony in southern Africa used tactics including sleight of hand, outright bans and restrictions on access to information to maintain power. These efforts resulted in an increasingly violent and polarized society as Black anti-colonial nationalists escalated their resistance. The determination of this small clique of Whites and their ability to hold out against world opinion until 1979 shows that while reactionary tactics may not be sustainable in the long run, they can garner unexpected success and create lasting divides that are difficult to surmount. While there is a difference in degree, curbing the discussion of the United States' history of racism, segregation and slavery puts American conservatives in the same camp as Smith's Rhodesia using a selective version of the past and attempting to strictly regulate access to information to bolster their own political project. The similarities expose the reality: information control is a tool of despots, and it's ultimately rarely effective. Instead of winning anyone over, such strategies just deepen societal fissures. Few observers in the mainstream news media and political class have publicly connected Ron DeSantis's white supremacist policies to the year he spent as a high school history teacher in Rome, Georgia. Such a failure is not a surprise given the mainstream news media's desperate attempts to elevate DeSantis as a "reasonable" and "respectable" alternative to Donald Trump, and general unwillingness to properly adapt to the country's democracy crisis and the existential danger embodied by neofascism and resurgent white supremacy. At the Independent, Joe Sommerlad explains: The current Republican governor arrived at the Darlington School aged 23 after graduating from Yale University. He had been born in Jacksonville in September 1978 to working class Italian-American parents, his father a TV engineer and his mother a nurse, going on to study at Yale and then Harvard Law School, after which he joined the US Navy in 2004, where he served as a legal advisor to SEAL Team One and was stationed at Guantanamo Bay and in Iraq before being discharged, thereafter working as a special assistant US attorney in Florida and then seeking election to Congress in 2012. His year as an educator was chronicled by The New York Times last year in a report that investigated the allegation that he had partied with students. One former student told the newspaper they remembered seeing him at one such event: "As an 18-year-old, I remember thinking, 'What are you doing here, dude?'" Asked how his presence at such events was received, another was dismissive: "It was his first job out of Yale, he was cute. We didn't really think too much about it." Another student, Danielle Pompey, claimed Mr DeSantis had treated her unkindly as a student, alleging this was because she was Black. "Mr Ron, Mr DeSantis, was mean to me and hostile toward me," she told The NYT. "Not aggressively, but passively, because I was Black." She also claimed that, during a history class on the American Civil War, he had made arguments for the justification of slavery, saying: "He was trying to play devil's advocate that the South had good reason to fight the war, to kill other people, over owning people Black people. "He was trying to say 'It's not OK to own people, but they had property, businesses.'" Another former student, who asked not be named, said Mr DeSantis's views on the Civil War were so well known that they were made the subject of a parody video for the school's video yearbook. The NYT reports that the video contains a snippet of a student imitating Mr DeSantis and saying, "The Civil War was not about slavery! It was about two competing economic systems. One was in the North," before the clip cuts to a student dozing off at their desk. Given what his former students have said about their time with him, DeSantis' apartheid pedagogy and apparent embrace of the white supremacist Lost Cause ideology and other lies and distortions about the color line and America's history (and present) should not be any surprise at all. Decades of research has shown that education level is positively correlated with reducing racism and prejudice in general. However, that dynamic does not override the fact that there are many "highly educated" racists and white supremacists. DeSantis and the other racial authoritarians and white supremacists in the "conservative" movement and larger white right increasingly fit that profile in the Age of Trump. Of course, they would never use that language to describe their values and beliefs and political project because such transparency would mean that they would not be allowed platforms and positions at leading publications, think tanks and interest groups, educational institutions, in the news media, in the Republican Party and "mainstream" "conservative" movement, and across civil society. Instead, these "educated" white supremacists and racists present themselves as defenders of the "Western tradition", "conservative values", "legacy Americans", "patriotism", "real America", and "(White) Christian heritage." DeSantis and the other leaders of the Republican fascist party and larger white right know the real power of the Black Freedom Struggle as an example of one of the world's most successful pro-democracy movements. They are working very hard to prevent the teaching of those lessons. Why? Like the fascists and authoritarians and demagogues in other countries and earlier eras, today's neofascists, both here in America and around the world, know that to win the present and future they must control the past. While back in her hometown of Charlotte to visit family for Christmas in 2019, Alex Ellis had a chance encounter with Petey Pablo, a North Carolina rap icon who had soundtracked many of her days as an undergrad at Elon University in the early 2000s. Hed just finished opening a show at The Fillmore for Snoop Dogg, and he just crushed it, Ellis recalls. I mean, it was beyond. Then as fate would have it, on her way to the restroom with her friend right before Snoops set, Ellis spotted Pablo moving through the crowd nearby. She suggested to her friend that they ask him for a selfie, her friend whipped out her phone, and Ellis excitedly waved down Pablo who obliged by posing between them. The whole interaction lasted about 10 seconds. Neither Ellis nor Pablo ever could have predicted that just over a year-and-a-half after that very brief encounter theyd spend an entire week together in Los Angeles shooting an audacious narrative short film conceived by Ellis and inspired in part by one of Pablos most famous songs. Or that Pablo would be talking to a reporter about their relationship and calling Ellis my little bestie right now. Or that this fall, the two fast and unlikely friends would be appearing together at film festivals in their shared home state of North Carolina first at the Charlotte Film Festival Sept. 27-Oct. 1, then at the Raleigh Film & Art Festival Oct. 6-8 to promote the short: Who Am I?, which stars Pablo as a fictionalized version of himself and Ellis as the therapist hes opening up to for the first time about his anxiety. So how did this happen? It all started with Ellis taking a leap in 2021, long after that concert selfie by sending Pablo a private message on Instagram. I have a HILARIOUS idea for a short film starring the two of us, she wrote to him, out of the blue. If youre open Id love to share the idea. Neither Alex Ellis (at left) or Petey Pablo could have predicted that, more than a year after a chance first encounter, theyd spend a week together in LA making an audacious short film. The life lessons that guided her Although Ellis grew up in the Dilworth neighborhood and the town of Davidson, she didnt exactly have the upbringing one might typically associate with white girls who grew up in Dilworth in the late 80s or Davidson in the early 90s. For first through fourth grades, she was bused to Irwin Avenue Elementary, a school with a predominantly Black enrollment located near the center of Charlotte that she recalls as this beautiful melting pot of diversity. ... I thank my parents every day for sending me to that school, because it wasnt all just white people. By the time she hit her teens, her musical tastes reflected that diversity Ellis gravitated toward hardcore rap made by artists like Notorious B.I.G., Tupac Shakur and Wu-Tang Clan late in middle school, then added an appreciation for country as a student at North Mecklenburg High. But her high school years were marred by tragedy. When she was 16, Elliss father died after a relatively short battle with cancer, devastating her, her mother and her older sister, and leaving Alex in the grip of untreated anxiety, grief and depression for years. She buried the trauma while studying musical theater at Elon. Buried it after being plucked from college in 2005 to star in her first professional role, on the Broadway tour of Thoroughly Modern Millie as the titular Millie Dillmount. Buried it while living in New York City and doing various regional theater productions. Buried it while traveling the country again at age 25 as part of cast of the national tour of Legally Blonde: The Musical in 2009. Alex Ellis, photographed in 2006, when she was starring in the national tour of the Broadway musical Thoroughly Modern Millie. It wasnt until she was 27 years old and working on her first in-New York, on-Broadway musical Catch Me If You Can, in 2011 that she met with a therapist for the first time and finally started grieving her dad. Two years later, she moved to L.A. to give a television career a try, then two years after that she took on a new therapist who took her management of her mental health to yet another level. I just started to be able to really unload and take off a bunch of layers, she recalls, and really start to work (on thinking about how to) turn a lot of my sadness into art, and a lot of that grief into art. Around her mid-30s, after years of exploring these new depths, she figured out who she wanted to make that art with: a rapper. All signs pointed to Petey Pablo Pablo was born in Greenville, North Carolina, and broke through as a mainstream hip-hop artist literally as Ellis was getting ready to graduate from North Meck High. His breakout hit, Raise Up, was released at the end of May in 2001 and was, in its own way, a love letter to his home state. This ones for North Carolina, come on and raise up Take your shirt off, twist it round your hand Spin it like a helicopter Then 2-1/2 years later Pablo made an even bigger splash with his crunk anthem Freek-a-Leek, a love letter not to N.C. this time but to illicit drugs, sexual conquests that he put first names to, and sexual positions. Sixteen years after that, Ellis was reminded of how wildly infectious that outrageous song can be at that Fillmore concert, which is where she randomly ran into Pablo, who she tagged in the selfie she posted and who then started following her on Instagram. From that point on, they often would like each others posts; as a result, Pablo never completely drifted out of Elliss thoughts. Petey Pablo poses with Alex Ellis, right, and her friend Amber Miller for the 2019 selfie that started it all for Ellis. Thats why, when she found herself in 2021 revisiting the idea shed had about wanting to make that art with a rapper, Pablo was the one who kept popping into her head. But she also wanted to shine a light on therapy and mental health, as a nod to her own journey. And while driving through Laurel Canyon in the Hollywood Hills one day that spring, the idea for what would be her first stab at filmmaking came to her: Petey Pablo would play a heightened version of himself, attending his first-ever therapy session and explaining the relationship problems he went through with the women he shouted out in Freek-a-Leek. She also envisioned a musical-inspired scene in which the two of them would dance to a jazz interpretation of the song. She had no clue whether Pablo would go for it, but in April 2021 she sent him the DM teasing her idea and asking for an opportunity to pitch it. His reply was quick and definitive. Lets do it, he wrote back. She made her pitch. He made a joke. As far as Pablo was concerned, their initial phone conversation was just a formality. He had a good feeling about her from the get-go. Alex ... she really looks like Darla from The Little Rascals, the rapper says, chuckling. She was so nice and she was so sweet, she wasnt overly aggressive. Im a spiritual person, so if the vibe is right, and it makes sense, (its an easy decision for me). Like, when she spoke to me about it, it was like I had already said yes to it before. It was like a second conversation, even though it was our first conversation. In addition to generally liking Ellis, he was flattered that she wanted to focus so tightly on Freek-a-Leek although he was surprised by her vision, too. Out of all the songs she could have taken to work with, he says, chuckling, (she chose) one of the craziest songs that you could ever picked in life to make a reference to, as far as mental health is concerned. Still, he decided to mess with her a little. After she spent an hour outlining her idea, she asked him what he thought, and whether he was interested. He paused. Then he said, You know, I dont really think this is for me. The joy in her voice, I mean, it was like somebody stuck a pin in her balloon, Pablo recalls, laughing. After a few awkward seconds, he broke and told her, No, Im just playin, before repeating a slightly longer version of the message hed sent to her on Instagram: Come on, lets get it. In July of 2021, Ellis who wrote the script and produced the project using $30,000 in savings flew Pablo out from his home in the Raleigh area for the shoot in Los Angeles, where the two saw each other in person for the first time since that fateful Charlotte show. Filming the 12-minute short took just two days, but they spent more time before getting in front of the cameras doing prep that included dance rehearsals every morning. I rented a studio just so we could figure out what we were doing, Ellis says, and it was like Dancing With the Stars. Hed never been in a dance studio like that before, learning choreography like that, and there was a bit of a learning curve. ... So we did three days of dancing in the morning, and then in the afternoon we would do scene work, and then wed go to dinner and be friends, and get to know each other. After their week of working and bonding, though, the project was in limbo for awhile. Alex Ellis and Petey Pablo This is what getting help looks like One of the main reasons was Elliss ongoing commitments to the jukebox musical Titanique, a parody (of the 1997 blockbuster movie) that featured her as Rose during an L.A. run in 2017; a limited engagement in New York City in 2018; and finally an off-Broadway revival in 2022. In fact, it wasnt till this year that she and her director, Christine Lakin, finally put the finishing touches on the Who Am I?, which made its debut last month at the Hip Hop Film Festival in Harlem. That was a unique experience in its own right, by the way, because Ellis says she and Lakin were the only two white filmmakers in attendance. But while she says shes always wanted to make art with somebody that I would normally not cross paths with, she hopes her being white and him being Black doesnt distract from the core theme. Im not a white savior, she says. Im not trying to save. Im just trying to be like, Here. This is what getting help looks like ... and it can actually be fun. And it can actually be silly, and it can actually be really healing and endearing, and not so like Oh my God, Im afraid to go in. Pablo agrees. It lightens the mood on that subject, cause thats one of those subjects that people dont really to talk about especially people of color. As for their friendship, its continued. Oh, I mean, we check in every week, Ellis reports. Love you! Love you, too! Happy birthday. ... He had a gig in Vegas two weeks ago, I was like, Smash it! You know, just each others cheerleaders. And it sounds like theres a very good chance theyll also work together again. Ive pitched ideas to her, Pablo says. We have some great ideas that are floating around. One of their favorites? A documentary series on incarcerated artists, with Pablo who served time in prison in the early 2010s on a gun-related charge as the interviewer and Ellis taking a deeper dive as a filmmaker... Alex Ellis and Petey Pablo shoot a scene for Who Am I? How to see Who Am I? The only way to see the short in the immediate future is by attending the Charlotte Film Festival (Sept. 27-Oct. 1), or the Raleigh Film & Art Festival (Oct. 6-8). Dates and times are subject to change, but in Charlotte, the screening is currently scheduled for 2:15 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1, while the Raleigh screening is set for 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 8. For details and tickets: charlottefilmfestival.org/2023 and raleighfilmandartfestival.com. Ellis says she hopes the film will eventually be distributed on a streaming service or network. Rep. Katie Porter , D-Irvine, did not bring her trademark whiteboard to Fresno over the weekend, but the U.S. Senate candidate showed up with the blunt talk and progressive philosophy that was received warmly by fellow Democrats at a meet-and-greet downtown. Porter is one of three leading candidates including fellow House Democratic colleagues Adam Schiff and Barbara Lee to succeed the retiring Dianne Feinstein . A Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies survey released Sept. 9 shows Schiff with 20% support, and Porter 17%, but 32% of voters still undecided. In a 43-minute chat with about 70 at the Fresno County Democratic Party headquarters, Porter staked out her positions on Social Security, immigration reform and campaign financing. Porter, a 49-year-old single mother of three, said the San Joaquin Valley has challenges that are similar to the rest of California, like housing affordability, Yet, it has unique issues like environmental justice. We need leaders who recognize the diversity of the Central Valley, Porter told Vida en en Valle during a short interview prior to her mid-morning talk. Rep. Katie Porter poses for a photo with Kevin Romero of Mendota during a campaign stop at the Fresno Democratic Party Headquarters in Fresno on Sept. 16, 2023. In urban areas like Fresno, we have environmental justice issues, its not all agricultural, said Porter. Some of the changes that were seeing with technology, with AI, with autonomous vehicles, with warehouse jobs are reshaping the Central Valley. Porter said she wants a vibrant, healthy future for the Central Valley. One of the things thats been important to me is not to treat the Central Valley as a monolith, she said. For instance, Modesto is quite different from Bakersfield. Some of the small communities are quite different from the large cities. Rep. Katie Porter, one of three top Democrats running for Senate, made a campaign stop at the Fresno Democratic Party Headquarters in Fresno on Sept. 16, 2023. Porter said Fresno and the Central Valley sometimes get dwarfed by the political power of San Francisco and of Los Angeles. I want the people of Fresno, the people of the Central Valley to know Im running to be Senator for Californians; not the Senator for Los Angeles or the Senator of San Francisco, but the whole state. She pointed to her 47th Congressional District a purple district in Orange County where Democrats have a 2.67-point edge over Republicans and 12-point advantage over those with no party preference .as proof she knows how to engage across party lines and connect people with elected officials. Thats something I want to do across the Central Valley, as well as Northern California and east of the Sierras, the entire state, said Porter. Asked about reaching out to Latino voters, who represent 21% of those likely to vote, Porter said Latinos want the same things that most Californians want. They want an opportunity for their family, to be able to afford housing, for their kids to be able to go to college without being saddled with debt, to retire with security, she said. Porter asked about Social Security, etc. In introducing herself to supporters, Porter accepted the media description of her as a watchdog. I really, really love oversight, said Porter, whose vanity license plate on her van is OVRSITE. Oversight is about being a watchdog for our tax dollars, for our retirement savings, for our budgets, for our future, for our pensions, she said. Oversight is about closing that gap between what politicians announce at press conferences and then what really happens in peoples lives. Oversight is not about punishing Republicans. It is about holding every member of government, Republican or Democrat, accountable for what they are doing and what they are delivering to their constituents. Among the audience questions she answered: Special interests: I am one of 11 members of Congress out of 435 who doesnt take contributions from federal lobbyists. The American people dont believe that you can be sipping bad Chardonnay and eating cheese cubes and collecting corporate checks at 7 p.m., and then the next morning at 10 forgetting all about that when you vote. Representation: I know what its like to represent an area that Democrats dont pay attention to. We need to spend more and more time where its purple, more time where people, even those who share our values, have less confidence in Democrats to fight for them, where people arent sure what our values are because were not being plainspoken enough about them. Where people share our values, but theyve given up on voting because they vote the same way and their lives dont change and improve. -Housing: There is no issue that Washington has failed to tackle than housing. The last time the federal government made a big investment in helping regular, ordinary people, working people afford housing was the G.I. Bill 80 years ago. Think about how transformative that was for so many people. It is time for the federal government to make a big investment in housing thats going to have some zeros behind it. Funding for Ukraine: I dont think we blink because I think thats what Putins counting on. But we do have to, and we should have done this right from the start, be thoughtful about the accountability thats going to be necessary when youre engaged in any kind of overseas military operation. The whiteboard: Its a tool to help make it easier for people to see whats going on in Washington. I was a professor at UC Irvine. I worked at public universities my whole career, and we need to make it easier for people to see whats happening in Washington. Too many people, when they hear the word politics or Capitol Hill, they turn the volume down. Student debt relief: What is missing in Washington is, again, that future orientation. What good does it do to forgive the debt of this generation if the next kids graduating are winding up in the exact same place? Were not going to do biblical debt jubilees. We need a long term solution. Social Security: Social Security is a promise and we as a country dont break our promises. It doesnt add one cent to the federal debt. The program is the greatest anti-poverty invention that has done more to lift seniors out of poverty. We need to expand Social Security. One of the ways we can do that is to scrap the cap so that if you earn more, you pay more. And if we did that, we would be able to guarantee that Social Security is stable for years to come. Every Congress Ive been there (three Congresses now), everybody signs on, the Democrats all sign on and then we dont put it on the floor for a vote. So this is an area to hold Democrats and Republicans to account. Immigration reform: I dont think weve done enough, including as Democrats on immigration, including some of our California Democrats. I dont think theyve been at the forefront of fighting for our immigrant communities and they absolutely need to be and should be. When people say look at the border crisis, I say, lets be clear. The border crisis in Texas, created by crappy Texas state policies, the border in California is a totally different place. Right? Because we as Californians are different. Because we understand that immigration makes our society and our economy stronger. The truth is, neither Democrats nor Republicans have had the political courage to deliver on immigration. WASHINGTON Five Pelican dropships and two Phantom troop carriers glide into view near snowcapped hills on a world with biomes similar to Earths. A handful of the warplanes break formation, ultimately bound for farther-flung targets, as volleys of neon green anti-aircraft fire erupt. Despite some dodging, the fire proves accurate, and one of the Pelicans is hit. It veers violently forward and smacks into another just in front. A cry for help is heard; then, an explosion. A voice over the radio warns of the dicey disembark to come. Brace yourselves. And, as players of Bungies smash-hit video game Halo 3 regain control of Master Chief Petty Officer John-117, the virtual super-soldier hoists to his shoulder what millions of gamers have affectionately nicknamed the Spartan Laser, a hulking, fearsome weapon powered by futuristic battery cells. An E3 attendee wears Master Chief's helmet during an Xbox briefing. (Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images) When primed with a squeeze and hold of the controllers trigger, the device unleashes a blast of directed energy capable of devastating multiple targets, virtual infantry and armored opponents. Heat management forces downtime between shots, a nod to the realities that often limit fire in real weapons. While such immensely powerful devices have long been a staple of computer games, movies and science-fiction novels, success in fielding practical weapons that can zap targets on real-world battlefields has eluded governments, scientists and defense contractors for more than a half-century. At least until recently. The hundreds of systems in the field? Its coming, Andy Lowery, the chief operating officer of defense company Epirus, a developer of directed-energy and counter-drone systems, said in an interview. Youll see tens of billions of dollars, I think, being applied once we get into production, manufacturing and then operations and sustainment. State of play The U.S. Department of Defense is spending an average $1 billion a year on developing directed-energy weapons with the goal of using them to defeat threats including drones and missiles. It requested at least $669 million in fiscal 2023 for unclassified research, testing and evaluation and another $345 million for unclassified procurement, the Congressional Research Service reported. Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering Heidi Shyu included directed energy on a list of 14 critical and emerging defense technologies released in February 2022. Potential applications abound. High-energy lasers, HEL, and high-power microwave, HPM, systems can be used for short-range air defense, SHORAD, and to counter unmanned aerial systems, C-UAS, as well as rockets, artillery and mortars, C-RAM. What does a laser do to impart damage on the set target, utilizing directed energy? It just basically heats up and melts, right? Just a ton of energy. Theres no, really, wave interaction, Lowery said. With HPM, youre actually trying to use the electro-magnetics in the air to cease the ability for anything that uses voltage and current to work, and youre trying to do that as efficiently as possible, because its not easy. A look at how directed-energy weapons could be used in the field. Incoming drones and missiles are depicted. (Photo provided/GAO) The weapons now in development come mainly in two forms: high-energy lasers, like Rafaels Iron Beam, and Epirus HPMs. The former focuses a beam or beams of energy to blind, cut or inflict heat damage on a target. The latter unleashes waves of energy that overwhelm or fry electronic components. Each has its respective strengths and weaknesses. While HPMs can have a near-instant effect on electronic guts, its efficacy is stunted at greater ranges. And while high-energy lasers can punch holes through all sorts of material, certain atmospheric conditions including fog or wind can impede or distort the shot. Neither needs to be mechanically reloaded, like a rifle or tank, but they are reliant on power production and output, which can be disrupted. In very controlled conditions, they seem to perform as they should, Thomas Withington, an analyst and author specializing in electronic warfare and military communications, said in an interview. The issue, though, is how do you translate that to the front line in Ukraine? Testing, testing The U.S. Army, Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps are all, right now, attempting to fold directed-energy systems into offensive and defensive capabilities. The Pentagons Joint Counter-Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Office and the Armys Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office in June tapped five companies to demonstrate weaponry capable of taking down one-way attack drones. The get-together at Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona featured a Lockheed Martin-made Mobile Radio Frequency-Integrated UAS Suppressor, or MORFIUS, a tube-launched, fixed-wing drone that flies at a target and lets loose a high-power microwave pulse. The service months earlier awarded a $66 million deal to Epirus for prototypes of its drone-zapping Leonidas device. The tech has since been paired with the Anduril Industries Lattice command-and-control program for the Marine Corps and DroneShields sensing-and-jamming DroneSentry system. A model of a Stryker Leonidas directed-energy system is displayed at the Epirus booth at the Air, Space and Cyber Conference in National Harbor, Maryland. (Colin Demarest/C4ISRNET) Similarly, the Air Force in April tested its Tactical High-power Operational Responder, or THOR, at Kirtland Air Force Bases Chestnut Test Site in New Mexico. The system looks like a shipping container with a satellite dish welded to the top; its effects, however, are less innocuous. Adrian Lucero, a program manager at the Air Force Research Laboratorys directed energy directorate, in a statement at the time of testing said THOR was exceptionally effective at disabling its targets. The lab employs approximately 11,500 military, civilian and contractor personnel, and manages a $7 billion portfolio. The THOR team flew numerous drones at the THOR system to simulate a real-world swarm attack, Lucero said. THOR has never been tested against these types of drones before, but this did not stop the system from dropping the targets out of the sky with its non-kinetic, speed-of-light high-power microwave pulses. In December 2021, the Navy announced the successful testing of a high-energy laser aboard the USS Portland while it sailed through the Gulf of Aden. A previous test was done in May 2020, during which a small drone was disabled over the Pacific Ocean. The service has been at the forefront of trying to deploy practical directed-energy weapons. Both Lockheeds High Energy Laser with Integrated Optical-dazzler and Surveillance, or HELIOS, and the in-house Optical Dazzling Interdictor Navy, or ODIN, to tackle small boats and intelligence-gathering systems, have been installed aboard destroyers. US Army working through challenges with laser weapons As the technology moves forward, it will be a technology that is adopted for certain niches. Perhaps ship defense against anti-ship missiles, counter-drone, that kind of thing, Withington said. Will it become a replacement for the anti-ship missile? Would it be something that you can sling under the belly of a B-21 and vaporize an air ministry in downtown Damascus? I dont know. Im inclined to think in the short- to medium-term probably not. A dazzling future There is often a long lag between the development of technology and its implementation and procurement, a period of time known as the valley of death among those in the defense community. Lately, military leaders are voicing a greater sense of urgency about the need to get these systems fully built and deployed. When asked about directed-energy weapons at a National Defense Industrial Association conference last month, Navy Adm. John Aquilino had two words for investors and builders: Bring it. Aquilino serves as the top man in the Indo-Pacific, a region the Biden administration considers vital to international security and financial well-being. His remit includes China and North Korea, as well as allies Australia, Japan and South Korea. Im very encouraged by the high-energy laser capability thats being experimented with and utilized, Aquilino said at the time. The key? Acceleration. If that capability exists, and we can deliver in 18 to 24 months, Im ready to plug it in, Aquilino said. Im ready to experiment with it tomorrow. Ive got the largest test range on the globe. Some big names are digging in: Booz Allen Hamilton last year announced the establishment of a high-energy laser division dubbed HELworks. The defense consultancy unveiled three product lines at the time including a High Energy Laser Mission Equipment Package meant for the Armys Stryker combat vehicle. The USS Portland fires a laser weapon at a target floating in the Gulf of Aden on Dec. 14, 2021. (Staff Sgt. Donald Holbert/U.S. Marine Corps via AP) Between one and five years, youre going to see an exiting of the AoA, of the analysis of alternatives, and then entering into programs of record, Lowery said. And that is going to mark a much bigger spend. International markets are also heating up. The U.K. and France are particularly interested in directed energy. Raytheon UK, a division of RTX, plans to integrate a high-energy laser onto a Wolfhound armored vehicle. During four days of testing in the U.S., the laser system successfully acquired, tracked, targeted and destroyed dozens of drones, according to the company, which is opening an advanced laser integration center in Scotland. And while militaries may be many years away from fielding anything like the fictional, shoulder-mounted Spartan Laser, the technology now being developed is proving itself too important to ignore, according to experts. Everybody thinks its laser guns and death rays, Withington said. I would say there wont be a Big Bang, but it should probably be a Big Zap for directed energy weapons. Qin Gang, Chinas minister of foreign affairs, in Berlin on May 9; Li Shangfu, Chinas minister of national defense, in Singapore on June 4. Credit - Thomas Trutschelpicture-alliance/dpa/AP; Vincent ThianAP General Li Shangfu, Chinas defense minister, was last seen in public on Aug. 29, when he gave a nondescript speech at a China-Africa security forum in Beijing. When he conspicuously didnt show up to an international meeting he was expected to attend in early September, Chinese officials said it was due to a health condition. Reports last week suggest hes actually under investigation for corruption and set to be removed, but a Chinese spokesperson would not confirm such to reporters. Lis mysterious absence follows the similar disappearance of Chinas former foreign minister Qin Gang , who was last seen in public on June 25 before being unceremoniously replaced from his cabinet post by his predecessor Wang Yi. Qinwho was also initially said to be facing unspecified health issues amid intense speculation and rumors of an extramarital affairhas still not reappeared in public. That two high-profile ministers have gone missing without explanation in a matter of months underscores the opacity and unpredictability of Xi Jinping s government. Read More: The World's Future Is in the Hands of Chinese President Xi Jinping Such a dramatic upheaval among the highest ranks of the Chinese Communist Party is quite unusual, Victor Shih, a professor of political science and director of the 21st Century China Center at the University of California in San Diego, tells TIME. Government officials are extensively vetted before appointments and promotions to ensure stability, and Li and Qin had just been elevated to the State Council, the countrys top administrative body, earlier this year. You would think that everyone whos left has already shown that theyre very loyal to [Xi], Shih says, or they would not be in senior positions. But more than just generating intrigue, the abrupt, unexplained oustings of Li and Qin also threaten, experts say, to further complicate the already difficult challenge of working with Chinafor foreign businesses and foreign governments alike. Businesses do not like uncertainties of any kind, Chen Gang, deputy director of the East Asia Institute at the National University of Singapore, tells TIME. Chinas lack of transparencythe government cut off international access to public data and has stopped publishing a number of national economic indicators, such as the youth unemployment ratereduces confidence and heightens risk for foreign investors. The looming threat, implied by the sudden apparent removal of two officials who operated in prominent diplomatic roles, that the government could change direction at a moments notice exacerbates the uncertainty of doing business with China, Chen says. That said, he adds, many would welcome a shift in Chinas current approach to foreign engagement, which has grown increasingly hostile, and the recent cabinet shakeup could be a window of opportunity for that to take place. Read More: Chinas Expanded Anti-Espionage Law Threatens Business Consultants and Advisers But while its unclear yet if Xis foreign or defense policy will actually change as a result, Drew Thompson, a former Pentagon official and senior fellow at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore, tells TIME, the turnover itself highlights the degree to which Xi has consolidated power and made everyone else in government replaceable. Even as Chinas domestic economy is in turmoil and doubts reportedly linger among CCP elders about Xis competence, current Chinese officials are only likely to become even more afraid of making decisions or speaking out, says Thompson. This presents a tremendous challenge to companies seeking to influence or even inform decision makers in China about the impact of their policies, he adds. As foreign interlocutors seek to engage with Chinese counterparts, theyre not engaging with decision makers in the party; theyre engaging with implementers. Contact us at letters@time.com. New Yorker Teddy Siegel was desperate to use a toilet but struggled to find a public restroom. She started documenting locally available toilets on TikTok to help residents and tourists. Her idea transformed into a community working to improve restroom access throughout the city. In August 2021, New Yorker Teddy Siegel, who is now 24 years old, posted a TikTok that showed a Google map of the city, which zoomed in to highlight the location of a Taco Bell, next to a comment that gave the details of a public bathroom in the venue, including what floor it was on, and the code to get inside. This embedded content is not available in your region. The upload received 1.1 million views, and over 1,100 comments packed with further recommendations of local public restrooms and how to get inside. The video was part of a series Siegel had started a month prior after she'd found herself desperate to use a public bathroom in the city with no relief in sight. Following the ordeal she decided to share the location of an accessible toilet on TikTok, on the off-chance it could help someone else in need. Two years on, she's become a thriving public bathroom influencer with 153,000 followers on her TikTok account @got2gonyc, and a campaigner fighting for the right to sanitary toilet access. Siegel never expected to go viral posting about restrooms In June 2021, Siegel was shopping in Times Square with her sister and really needed to use the bathroom. She asked a store worker if she could use theirs, but was told it was for employees only. She tried a few more stores and they all turned her away, Siegel told Insider, so she darted to a nearby McDonald's instead. "At this point, like, I really had to go and I was almost in tears," Siegel said, but an employee at the fast-food chain told her only customers could be given a code to the toilet. "I quickly bought a water bottle and then ran upstairs and used the bathroom and made it in time thankfully, but I just was really annoyed," she said. It turned out the door was unlocked so Siegel could have gone in anyway, but the whole incident frustrated her, and she wished there was some sort of service that could have saved her the hassle of running around in full-bladder panic in search of a usable restroom. Siegel filmed the exterior of the McDonald's, planning to start a private list of public bathrooms she could use in the future to avoid the same situation, but her sister encouraged her to share it online too, as there may be others who would benefit from the same information. This embedded content is not available in your region. She created the TikTok account and posted her first video with information about the McDonald's, which received 16,000 views and a handful of comments that shared more recommendations of local bathrooms and how to get inside, and Siegel realized she may be on to something. As Siegel's videos blew up, she launched an interactive map that listed the locations of many more bathrooms Siegel took the comments from viewers detailing available toilets and used them to create further videos that showed their exact locations on Google Maps. This prompted even more comments, so she made even more videos, steadily growing her follower count as a result. "I, at a certain point, had too many bathrooms, and I decided to then take all of those suggestions and start a crowdsourced Google Map," Siegel told Insider. "To date that has over 1,500 bathrooms across all five boroughs." Viewers can add new locations to the map or update older bathrooms if their status or codes have been changed, to ensure the public can still get inside. Siegel started experimenting with her content, making videos where she challenged herself to see how many stores she had to go to until someone let her use their bathroom, and a rundown of the top public bathrooms to do your make-up in. This embedded content is not available in your region. She knew public toilet access was important, but saw her TikTok account as a "funny thing that I did" and acknowledged it was pretty "quirky," until she started to receive comments and messages from viewers who expressed how deeply the lack of bathroom access had impacted then, from delivery drivers who worked night shifts and had given up trying to find them, to homeless people. "That was really a turning point for me in the account," she told Insider. "This really is so much more than a public health crisis. It's also an equity crisis." The TikTok account helped create more conversation around what is normally a private topic Siegel started compiling some of the comments and direct messages she had received from viewers and posted a series of often anonymous testimonies to her website which included the experiences of a 44-year-old NYC resident with severe IBS and a construction worker with Crohn's disease who were unable to find a restroom in time. "After that I started doing more work with Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine and other members of city council and I spoke on the steps of City Hall the following June in support of Intro 258, which was also known as the bathroom bill, which then passed in October which was really exciting," Siegel told Insider. Intro 258 requires that the Mayor designates an agency or office that would report on the number of operational public bathrooms throughout the city, and "report on feasible locations for public bathroom facilities." New York City ranked 93rd out of the 100 largest US cities when it comes to public bathrooms per capita, according to a press release published in October 2022 by the Manhattan Borough President. "Once I knew how important it was, it just made me so motivated to not stop until this issue is actually solved," Siegel told Insider. In August, New York City council member Sandy Nurse introduced a further bill that aims to improve public bathroom conditions with the goal of providing one toilet per 2,000 residents by 2035. Siegel said she "could never imagine" speaking to someone so candidly about using the restroom before, but she loves the community that has grown around the topic and how her mission has evolved into "breaking the stigma surrounding bathroom access." For more stories like this, check out coverage from Insider's Digital Culture team here. Read the original article on Insider A survey of 109 doctors and other providers at those clinics found 36% were uncomfortable discussing firearm-related risks with patients. Photo by Debbie Hill/UPI It's an important health topic, but both adult patients and their primary care doctors shy away from discussing firearms and gun safety, a new survey finds. While they may discuss a variety of health risks, firearm safety isn't often one of them, the study from Michigan Medicine found. Of more than 500 adult patients who had regular checkups during a one-month period, about 56% bypassed a question about firearms on a questionnaire used in many clinic waiting rooms and online portals of Michigan Medicine, the University of Michigan's academic medical center, where the study was done. Nearly all answered the rest of the questions about other health and social topics. A survey of 109 doctors and other providers at those clinics found 36% were uncomfortable discussing firearm-related risks with patients. About 32% of providers said it was only slightly important, or not important, to discuss firearm safety during checkups with all adult patients. That answer was different when the patient had a history of mental health conditions. In those cases, 77% of providers said such discussions are important. About half of providers felt the same way about patients with substance use disorders. The authors said their findings suggest a need for improvement in how primary care clinics train providers on firearm-related topics, and screen patients for potential firearm-related risks. "Our hypothesis is that patients are deliberately not answering because they don't want to -- maybe because they feel uncomfortable talking about firearms with their doctor or other health provider," said lead author Dr. Joseph Ladines-Lim, a fourth-year resident in Michigan Medicine's combined program for internal medicine and pediatrics. "At the same time, our findings suggest there's a lot of ambivalence from providers about asking their patients about firearms during the course of a routine visit," he said in a university news release. "A decent number want to address it, but an almost equal number don't think it's something for them to address. However, there is a consensus about addressing it with those at higher risk, but we also found a lot of providers did not feel well-trained to discuss this issue," Ladines-Lim said. Many national organizations are calling on primary care providers to raise firearm safety risks, the researchers noted. They added that firearms were used in just over half of U.S. suicides. About 90% of suicide attempts in which someone uses a firearm end in death. Since the survey was conducted in summer 2022, Michigan Medicine has offered more training for its providers on addressing firearm-related safety and risks with patients. That training is also part of the curriculum for internal medicine residents. The U-M Institute for Firearm Injury Prevention offers online learning for health care providers located anywhere. Ladines-Lim said the study showed wide variation in how clinics in different locations incorporated the firearm-related screening question into their appointment process. Only 32% of clinicians even knew their clinic asked patients about firearms in their home. "Annual health maintenance visits in primary care include an ever-growing list of preventive health topics to discuss in a single appointment -- without additional time provided as the list grows," noted senior author Dr. Jennifer Meddings, an associate professor of internal medicine. "Studies have shown that many patients aren't as resistant to discussing this topic as providers might suspect, especially in people with higher risks -- but I suspect firearm use may be a sensitive topic such as obesity or substance abuse where asking permission of the patient to discuss it may be a helpful first step," Meddings said in the release. Study findings were recently published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine. More information Pew Research Center has more on U.S. gun deaths. Copyright 2023 HealthDay. All rights reserved. Last year, the Supreme Court made it harder for Congress and state legislatures to pass laws that restrict when Americans can own and carry guns. It instituted a new history-and-tradition test in New York Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen that lower courts have already used to overturn various gun control laws. President Joe Biden is among Bruens critics, having said he was deeply disappointed by the courts ruling last summer. Since 1911, the State of New York has required individuals who would like to carry a concealed weapon in public to show a need to do so for the purpose of self-defense and to acquire a license, Biden said then. More than a century later, the United States Supreme Court has chosen to strike down New Yorks long-established authority to protect its citizens. This ruling contradicts both common sense and the Constitution, and should deeply trouble us all. The president may now have at least some reason to think the ruling is less troubling: It could ultimately save his son from federal prosecutors. On Thursday, the Justice Department charged Hunter Biden with three counts of violating federal gun laws. According to the indictment, Hunter faces one count of illegal possession of a firearm while under the influence of an illegal drug and two counts of making false statements about his drug use when purchasing the firearm in question in 2018. Bruen focused on New Yorks regime for issuing concealed-carry licenses, which had been criticized for its selective application and its discriminatory effects. It was the first major Second Amendment case the high court heard in more than a decade. In the 2008 case District of Columbia v. Heller, the justices held that the Second Amendment protects an individual right to bear arms. McDonald v. Chicago, a follow-up case decided in 2010, applied Hellers reasoning to state and local governments as well. In the 12 years that followed, lower courts continued to uphold nearly all gun regulations that faced legal challenges from gun owners and Second Amendment groups. Bruen changed that dynamic by imposing a stricter test for lower courts to use when deciding whether particular gun laws pass constitutional muster. Justice Clarence Thomas , writing for the majority, laid out a history-and-tradition test that reflected the conservative majoritys commitment to originalism. When the Second Amendments plain text covers an individuals conduct, the Constitution presumptively protects that conduct, Thomas wrote. The government must then justify its regulation by demonstrating that it is consistent with the Nations historical tradition of firearm regulation. Only then may a court conclude that the individuals conduct falls outside the Second Amendments unqualified command. Lower courts have since used this test to strike down a variety of long-standing gun laws. The Supreme Court will hear oral arguments later this fall in United States v. Rahimi, where the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals used Bruen to strike down a federal law that prohibits gun ownership by people under domestic violence restraining orders. The Fifth Circuit panel noted that there was no evidence that early American legislatures passed similar laws, meaning that it did not meet the history-and-tradition standard. That American society did not recognize domestic violence as a major societal issue until after women obtained the legal and civil rights they often lacked in the founding era did not matter. Hunters case revolves around a provision known as Section 922(g)(3), which makes it illegal for someone to own a firearm if they are an unlawful user of a controlled substance. This ban applies even if the person is not under the influence when they actually buy, carry, or use a gun. Since American legislatures did not criminalize drug use until the late nineteenth and early twentieth century, there is good reason to believe 922(g)(3) is no longer constitutional in a post-Bruen world. Indeed, at least one federal court has already reached that exact conclusion. In August, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in United States v. Daniels that a 922(g)(3) conviction had failed Bruens history-and-tradition test and therefore violated the Second Amendment. The government had convicted Patrick Daniels, the defendant in that case, for violating the provision based on his admission that he used marijuana from time to time each month. But prosecutors did not show that he was under the influence of marijuana or any other controlled substance when he was arrested or even when he had last used them. Judge Jerry Smith, writing for the unanimous three-judge panel, concluded that federal prosecutors had not provided sufficient historical evidence to justify upholding 922(g)(3). He acknowledged that an exact founding-era analogue was unlikely because the founding generation had a different relationship with marijuana than modern Americans. (Hemp was often used to make rope in the early nineteenth century, and, Smith noted, George Washington cultivated it at Mount Vernon.) But states also did not enact gun restrictions similar to 922(g)(3) for other addictive or intoxicating substances like alcohol, which was seen as a much greater vice in that era. Throughout American history, laws have regulated the combination of guns and intoxicating substances, Smith wrote. But at no point in the 18th or 19th century did the government disarm individuals who used drugs or alcohol at one time from possessing guns at another. A few states banned carrying a weapon while actively under the influence, but those statutes did not emerge until well after the Civil War. Section 922(g)(3)the first federal law of its kindwas not enacted until 1968, nearly two centuries after the Second Amendment was adopted. The panels ruling was ultimately narrow, Smith concluded. We do not invalidate the statute in all its applications, but, importantly, only as applied to Daniels, he wrote. Nor do we suggest that a robust Second Amendment is incompatible with other reasonable gun regulations. But the ruling also rested on a fairly rigid interpretation of Bruens test. By rejecting on various grounds the alcohol-related analogues the government offered, it all but guaranteed that no such historical tradition would be found. The Fifth Circuit is neither the first nor the last court to address this question. Federal district courts in Oklahoma and Texas have reached separate but similar conclusions about 922(g)(3)s constitutionality over the past year, while some federal courts in other jurisdictions have upheld the provision since Bruen. Last month, for example, a federal judge in Iowa explicitly declined to adopt the Fifth Circuits interpretation itself. This narrow reading and demand for near perfect analoguesdespite acknowledging Bruens pronouncement analogues need not be perfectis too severe, Judge C.J. Williams wrote in a ruling on a pretrial motion, referring to the Fifth Circuits ruling, and places too great an emphasis on the specific controlled substance Daniels usedmarijuanawhen Section 922(g)(3) regulates unlawful users and addicts of any controlled substance, not specific controlled substances. What happens next is not clear. Another federal appeals court upholding the provision as constitutional could prompt the Supreme Court to intervene to resolve the circuit split. The various lower court rulings may also be affected by the high courts decision in Rahimi in the upcoming term, especially if the justices refine or alter the history-and-tradition test for Second Amendment cases. And while Hunters lawyers may opt to challenge this case on constitutional grounds, they have already argued against its lawfulness for other reasons that may succeed without reaching this precise constitutional question. For now, the only thing that is certain is that the Justice Department filed charges against the presidents son under a gun control statute of questionable constitutionality in the middle of a post-Bruen revolution in Second Amendment case law. Joe Bidens critics often accuse him of waging a war on law-abiding Americans right to bear arms. If you had told those critics one year ago who the most prominent target of this war would be, they probably wouldnt have believed you. After three years of renovations at Maine East High School, the library now opens onto a wide staircase and is accessible from the school's Center Court, which groups together a range of student services. The school spent almost $85 million on renovations, which were finished in the summer. (Pam DeFiglio) Students at Maine East High School in Park Ridge have many new features on campus this year as a result of three years of renovations that were completed this summer. The renovations cost Maine Township High School District 207 taxpayers approximately $82 to $85 million. The renovations were funded after Maine Township voters approved a 2018 referendum on a $196 million proposal to renovate District 207s three schools in Park Ridge and Des Plaines. The referendum passed with a 61 percent majority, triggering the District to invest an additional $45.7 million from its reserve fund. Advertisement For Maine Easts portion of the funding, $35 million went into updating the schools HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems, said Brett Clark, communications director for the district. Other big investments were made in new flooring and lights throughout the entire building. The expanded cafeteria allows for the 1,800 student body to eat lunch within two school periods instead of three, as they had done before. Mike Bender, assistant principal for student support, said that was possible because for the first time in school history, seniors would be allowed to leave campus for lunch. The new setup also offers students a selection of halal food. Advertisement The renovation included moving several key services for students into a single area that administrators are calling Center Court. This hub includes the Student and Family Services Department, the bookstore, the technology help window, the Family Outreach Coordinator, the Associate Principals Office for Student Experiences, College and Career Resource Center, the library, a gathering space for students to lounge and individual study rooms. Principal Melissa Pikul said grouping these services together allows students to visit them without having to walk extensive distances within the large building. Students would literally have to make a plan, like at what point in the day might I have the opportunity to visit our attendance and career and college resource center? said Pikul. Having that free flow between our cafeteria and Center Court area allows our students to really take care of their needs on their own time, she added. Before the services were grouped into Center Court, the space was occupied by fine arts and special education classrooms, Clark said. With its prior setup, the space was closed off and did not allow for students to move from one side of the building to the other. Maine East Principal Melissa Pikul, in royal blue at far left, greets State Sen. Laura Murphy at a ribbon cutting and open house last week to show off the renovations at the high school. District 207 remodeled its high schools after a 2018 referendum. (Pam DeFiglio) The new special education suite has space for its own nursing office, physical therapy and occupational therapy and allows for direct entry for student pick-up. The renovation updated the gymnasium with new flooring and running track, and added a dance studio equipped with wood flooring and mirrors. Two smaller rooms were opened up to create a large fitness room. The remodel at Maine East is the largest of its kind since it was built in 1929, Clark said in an email to Pioneer Press/Chicago Tribune. There have been many additions to the building in the past (the last major renovation was over 50 years ago) but this is the largest undertaking to upgrade the school since it opened, he commented. After renovations that took three years and cost approximately $85 million, Maine East High School in Park Ridge has a culinary arts rooms in its Career and Technical Education wing. The school is part of Maine Township High School District 207. (Pam DeFiglio) Advertisement The renovation provided modernized spaces in a new Experiental Wing featuring career and technical education classes. The classrooms feature big windows to show off what goes inside, which is intentional, Clark said, to pique students interest. Before they pick a major or career, they get to try that on for size. The Experiential Wing includes classrooms for woodworking, culinary arts and fashion, among other trades and fields. Pikul who is in her second year as principal, said the renovations feel like a gift for me. Pikul said one of her priorities was to create a strong communication system to reach out to parents. That presents a challenge in that the district has students who come from homes where more than 55 languages are spoken. Pikul said the school can usually call upon staff members to translate and, for those languages which no staff member speaks, the school can tap into professional translation services. After Maine East High School underwent renovations that were completed this past summer, a science room has drop-down electrical access and movable desks. (Pam DeFiglio) At the ribbon cutting at Maine East held Sept. 6, District 207 Superintendent Ken Wallace, who has announced he will retire after this school year, said his intentions to remodel the schools in the district go back to when he started the job. One of the first things I told the [school] board in 2009 was, We really need to do something with the buildings, Wallace recounted. And I remember telling that board, and the next board, We really need to do something with our facilities, Wallace said. Finally, in 2017 and 2018, the right members of the board coalesced around this idea, he added. With the remodels in place across all three schools, Wallace said, I think history will show that [board members] were good stewards in this project, and whats really remarkable is that this project is going to carry this district decades into the future. Dominican Republic security forces stand guard on a border bridge between Dajabon, Dominican Republic, and Haiti, Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023. The president of the Dominican Republic announced Thursday that he would close all borders with neighboring Haiti starting Friday in response to the construction of a supposed canal on Haitian soil that targets waters from the Massacre River, which runs along the border shared by both countries. (AP Photo/Ricardo Hernandez) SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (AP) The president of the Dominican Republic on Sunday defended his decision to close air, sea and land traffic with neighboring Haiti in their dispute over construction of a canal targeting a river that runs through both countries. President Luis Abinader said in a televised speech that the border closures begun Friday will remain in place until construction is halted on the canal, which seeks to use water from the Massacre River to alleviate a drought in Haitis Maribaroux plain. We do not desire or seek confrontation, but we are confronting the uncontrollable people who keep Haiti insecure, and who, due to their private interests, now also conspire against the stability of their government and the security of our water resources, Abinader said during his brief speech, referring to gang violence that has engulfed Haiti. Accusing Haiti of violating a 1929 treaty between both countries, he said that the Massacre River is a key resource for Dominican farmers and that construction could damage the environment, including a wetland. The precedent of an irrigation project built unilaterally can lead to an escalation of constructions that would destroy the river, Abinader said. The river is named after a bloody battle between French and Spanish colonizers, and it was the site of a mass killing of Haitians by the Dominican army in 1937. The full border shutdowns came four days after Abinader announced that his administration had stopped issuing visas to Haitians and had closed the border near the northern town of Dajabon. He said it was important to raise awareness in the international community so it comes to Haitis aid. There is no Dominican solution to Haitis problem, Arbinader said. We cannot be asked for more than what we already do. A spokesperson for the office of Haitis prime minister declined comment Sunday and referred to a Friday statement condemning Abinaders decision to shutter all borders while both sides were meeting to find a solution. Haitis government has said it supports the canal project. Haiti also has requested help to help quell a surge in gang violence, with the U.S. saying it would submit a U.N. Security Council resolution that would authorize Kenyas offer to lead a multinational police force. A resolution has yet to be submitted, and no timetable has been provided. Former President Donald Trump and moderator Kristen Welker appear in a pre taped interview on "Meet the Press" at the Trump National Golf Club Bedminster, in Bedminster, NJ, Sep. 14, 2023. (William B. Plowman/NBC via Getty Images) Former President Donald Trump is attempting to project himself as a moderate on abortion, but his own previous statements and governing record provide a number of complications for that strategy. The clear frontrunner for the 2024 GOP nomination, Trump spoke at length on the issue during an interview that aired Sunday on NBC News Meet the Press. Why it matters Republicans have struggled to find a winning message on abortion rights. Last years decision by the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade and strip millions of Americans of abortion access was extremely unpopular and has led to immense blowback for Republicans at the ballot box, including in states Trump won twice like Ohio and Kansas. Trump said he felt his fellow Republicans spoke very inarticulately on the subject. Yet he avoided specifics on what he would do if reelected including whether hed sign a ban at the federal level, how many weeks of pregnancy he would allow before a ban went into effect and whether the issue should be decided by the states or Congress. Trump also reiterated the false claim that babies are sometimes killed after being born in states run by Democrats, attempting to paint his opponents as the radicals on the issue. It's already a crime to kill babies, but not necessarily a crime to forgo sophisticated medical intervention in cases where severe fetal abnormalities leave a newborn with no chance of survival, the Associated Press explained in a 2019 fact-check of Trumps comments on the issue. The former president went on to insist that he could find a solution that would be acceptable to both sides of the issue. Let me just tell you what Id do. Im going to come together with all groups, and were going to have something thats acceptable, Trump said, adding, I think both sides are going to like me. Trumps record on abortion Abortion rights supporters hold signs of U.S. Supreme Court Justices as they participate in a rally and march on May 14, 2022 in New York City. (Stephanie Keith/Getty Images) A potential issue with Trump pledging to bring together both sides is his extensive history with reproductive rights. He appointed three Supreme Court justices who all voted to overturn abortion protections in the country fulfilling a campaign promise and bragged in May that Im the one who got rid of Roe v. Wade. A judge Trump appointed to the district court also ruled against the use of a popular abortion drug earlier this year. Trumps pledge to get everyone in a room and find consensus on an issue is reminiscent of his comments on health care throughout the 2016 campaign and his four years in office, stating that an incredible policy that would cover every American was always just a couple weeks or months away from being unveiled. Trump left office without ever introducing such a plan. The Republican frontrunner also took aim at Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis during the interview, calling his rivals decision to quietly sign a bill banning abortions after six weeks of pregnancy back in April a terrible thing and a terrible mistake. Other states have also put six-week bans into effect, which medical experts say is essentially an outright ban because the vast majority of individuals dont know theyre pregnant until later. Such bans are only possible at the state level due to the overturning of Roe. Trump faced criticism from anti-abortion groups earlier this year for his criticism of the six-week ban. During his long career in the public eye, Trump has taken various positions on abortion. While considering a run for president in 2000, Trump declared he was very pro-choice despite saying he personally abhorred the procedure. And while publicly taking credit for the Supreme Courts decision to overturn Roe, he reportedly told others in private that the decision would be bad for Republicans, according to The New York Times. How Americans feel about abortion rights A Yahoo News/YouGov poll earlier this year found that six-week bans had just 28% support nationwide, versus 52% opposition. That same poll found that 52% of Americans favored the idea of Congress passing a law that keeps abortion as legal and accessible nationwide as it had been under Roe v. Wade, versus 30% opposed, with support for a nationwide ban after 15 weeks of pregnancy was split at 39% to 39%, with 22% of respondents not sure. Meanwhile, Politico reported in June that the Supreme Courts decision to overturn Roe had made Americans much more supportive of abortion rights. In Virginia, Democrats hope that voters hostility to abortion restrictions will carry them to victory in the closely-watched state legislature elections this November. Virginias Republican governor, Glenn Youngkin, favors a 15-week abortion ban, but has largely focused on other issues while campaigning for GOP candidates. Donald Trump's widely publicized interview with Kristen Welker, the new host of NBC's "Meet the Press," was simply too boring to watch all the way through. One can feel compassion, in an abstract sense, for media professionals or would-be informed citizens who felt that perhaps it was important to try to understand what Trump is "thinking" at this juncture in history, or who rode along for some distance with the argument made by Peter Baker of the New York Times in an apologia tacked onto the end of Welker's interview: The media can't stop asking questions of a major presidential candidate just because that person is a soul-destroying black hole of anti-information who sucks in everyone and everything in his orbit and reduces them to tiny, stupid caricatures of themselves. (That's not exactly how Baker phrased it, to be fair.) But it was a bad idea for Welker and NBC News to do this interview in the first place, a bad idea to broadcast it and a truly terrible idea to spend any of your one wild and precious life absorbing it. As media critic and NYU professor Jay Rosen observed in an X/Twitter thread, there was "zero innovation" visible in the way NBC's producers approached and structured this entire experience, and zero indication that any of the so-called lessons supposedly learned by the mainstream media over the course of the Trump ordeal how long has it been? Seven years? Seventeen? "Seven-seven"? I can't remember have actually changed anything. Nothing Trump had to say was even remotely surprising: Nancy Pelosi was to blame for Jan. 6, the 2020 election was rigged, illegal immigrants are coming for your daughters, he might pardon himself and then again he might not. But to characterize any of that as news is to debase the concept even below the chronically insulting Pavlov's-dog chyrons on CNN, which inform viewers during every single minute of every day that there is "breaking news" about a "Real Housewives" contestant and fake elector who've been caught groping each other in a crowded theater on security-cam footage captured on Hunter Biden's laptop. (It's possible I don't have that one quite right.) Even to describe the things Donald Trump says as "opinions" or "positions" that justify debate or discussion is once again to fall into the Heffalump trap the media has constructed for itself, in the impossibly naive belief that this time it will outsmart its quarry. (If you've forgotten the source of this metaphor, Pooh and Piglet build a trap to capture a mythical beast, then follow their own footprints in a circle and tumble into it themselves. Too perfect, right?) Every journalist, it would seem, not-so-secretly believes that in an interview with Trump, their integrity and independence of mind will lead them to triumph where all others have bitten the dust. That kind of hero's-journey arrogance is virtually a professional requirement; I will not claim that I or any other journalist I know would turn down the opportunity. If we conceive of Donald Trump as a dark enchanter whose power to warp the texture of reality and cloud men's minds must be resisted or overcome, we've already gotten it backward. As every parable about the devil and every horror movie about teenagers who find a forbidden book make clear, the real adversary is human pride and human vanity, not some demonic entity. Trump is a mind parasite, who only has the power we willfully allow him to drain from us. He feeds on the vanity of the media, which believes it can capture and study him; the vanity of Republican leaders who believed they could ride him into a new era of political hegemony and then cast him aside; the vanity of his millions of supporters who believe they're in on the joke and that Trump's nihilistic fantasies of revenge against the privileged classes can never hurt them. Facing the fact that everything Trump says amounts to chum thrown into the water to attract sharks, and that allowing him to throw more of it accomplishes nothing beyond expanding the shark universe, will not magically repair the psychotic dysfunction and division of American politics and American culture. That long preceded Trump, and fixing it will take decades, if it can be done at all. But even Pooh and Piglet eventually grasped that either the Heffalump never existed in the first place, or they were never going to catch him. Over the last few days as most of the media was blathering on about Joe Biden 's "bad week," Donald Trump was stepping up his campaign and appearing at various venues saying things and behaving in ways that should have made journalists' ears perk up, wondering if he's lost more than a step. He was wildly dishonest and incredibly self-destructive even for him. It started with an interview with Megyn Kelly for her Sirius XM show last Thursday, the first since shortly after Trump crudely insulted her back in 2015 during the first presidential primary debate. Trump seemed to expect a friendly, Fox-like, interview and she gave him plenty of softballs and expressed her agreement with much of his nonsense. But she did ask some probing questions about his legal troubles and once again he more or less confessed to his crimes. He must have said the words "Presidential Records Act" a dozen times, reiterating over and over that he had every right to take any document he chose. And he slipped up continuously, providing the prosecution plenty of fodder: Trump on taking classified documents: Im allowed to have these documents. Im allowed to take these documentsWhen I have them, they become unclassified. People think you have to go through a ritual. You dont, at least in my opinion. pic.twitter.com/IAkdGsGnWo Republican Accountability (@AccountableGOP) September 14, 2023 When the special prosecutor presents this case to the jury they will be told exactly what is supposed to happen with classified documents and they will understand how utterly ridiculous it would be for a president to secretly declassify documents and not tell anyone that they've been declassified. Over the weekend he spoke at the Christian right "Pray, Vote, Stand" summit in Washington and mocked President Biden mercilessly over his alleged mental unfitness and then said this: Trump says Joe Biden is cognitively impaired and then accuses him of getting us into World War TWO. No, he really did. pic.twitter.com/03KKUm24XT Jim Stewartson, Anti-disinfo activist (@jimstewartson) September 16, 2023 The spooky background music and his bizarre delivery made that downright chilling. He also said: Trump: As you know, crooked Joe Biden and the radical left thugs who have weaponized law enforcement to arrest their leading political opponent that leading by a lot, including Obama pic.twitter.com/T5mx6LhH5D Acyn (@Acyn) September 16, 2023 Any normal person would have just corrected himself for misspeaking but he can never admit he did anything wrong so instead he twisted himself into a verbal pretzel that had it been delivered by Joe Biden would have resulted in a national call to check him into a nursing home immediately. He later appeared at the Concerned Women for America conference and was a little bit sharper but repeated nonsense such as his silly claim that you need ID to buy a loaf of bread, another sign that he simply cannot retain information. He has certainly heard by now that this is silly and could easily substitute something like "you have to have ID to travel on an airplane" to make his point but he can't do that. Once he gets something like "low flow showers" or "windmills cause cancer" in his head there's no getting it out. That's not normal. The final segment of his week-end odyssey was the highly anticipated interview on "Meet the Press" which was filmed earlier in the week. To say it was infuriating would be an understatement. As he always does, he ran circles around the show's new host, Kristen Welker, and basically made a mockery of American democracy by demonstrating that an incoherent con artist is going to be the Republican nominee for president again. And he once again showed he is completely oblivious to the legal damage he is doing to himself every time he agrees to answer questions about his cases. Here he confesses that he only listened to lawyers who told him what his own "instincts" told him was true. When pressed he says that the decision about whether the election was rigged was his alone, although he dances away from Welker's question about whether he was "calling the shots." WATCH: Kristen Welker asks former President Trump to clarify if he was listening to his lawyers advice or his own instincts after he lost the 2020 election. Trump: It was my decision. pic.twitter.com/a3Hl4HPbEX Meet the Press (@MeetThePress) September 17, 2023 Watching these events is intensely frustrating and I think it's even more difficult to watch now than before. Trump is no longer a first-time candidate taking the political press by surprise. Neither is he the president whose office confers such immense power that even a dolt like Trump is automatically given more deference than he deserves. Today he is just another candidate for president and he doesn't deserve to be treated with any more respect than any of the others. In fact, he deserves less since he is a criminal defendant in four different cases and was recently found liable for sexual assault to the tune of $5 million. The man sat in all the interviews and appearances and made it crystal clear that he believes he is above the law. In fact, with his endless blathering about how he can do whatever he wants with classified documents, he makes it clear that he believes he is the law. And yet, the befuddled yet eager media is treating Donald Trump with the same consideration they always did, before they knew how disordered and his mind was and what a danger he is to American democracy and the rule of law. Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course. I had thought after the widely criticized CNN Trump town hall everyone understood that you simply cannot allow Trump to ramble incoherently to cover for his unwillingness to answer the questions. They have to find another way to cover him. And yet there he was this weekend on "Meet The Press" doing exactly that. And in spite of the interview being pre-taped, they aired it as if it was live and only put a fact-check on their website after the fact. For every viewer who saw that he was completely unfit to be president there is another who got lost in the overwhelming rush of words, or what's known to rhetoricians as "the Gish Gallop," a tactic designed to "defeat one's opponent by burying them in a torrent of incorrect, irrelevant, or idiotic arguments." That's what Trump does, however unconsciously, and the media aids and abets him by treating him as if he's just another politician. The Guardian's Margaret Sullivan wrote about this problem last week: Trump is covered mostly as an entertaining sideshow his mugshot! His latest insults! not a perilous threat to democracy, despite four indictments and 91 charges against him, and despite his own clear statements that his re-election would bring extreme anti-democratic results; he would replace public servants with the cronies who'll do his bidding. "We will look back on this and wish more people had understood that Biden is our bulwark of democratic freedoms and the alternative is worse than most Americans can imagine," commented Ruth Ben-Ghiat, author of Strongmen, and an expert in authoritarian regimes. She says the solution for journalists is simpler than we think: Remember at all times what our core mission is: to communicate truthfully, keeping top of mind that we have a public service mission to inform the electorate and hold powerful people to account. If that's our north star, as it should be, every editorial judgment will reflect that. Headlines will include context, not just deliver political messaging. Overall politics coverage will reflect "not the odds, but the stakes", as NYU's Jay Rosen elegantly put it. Lies and liars won't get a platform and a megaphone. I wish I had more confidence that this would happen. At this point, I think we just have to fervently hope that there are enough people in this country who can see through that cacophony of BS and vote as if their future depends upon him never holding office again because it does. Former President Donald Trump is claiming he saved Texas embattled attorney general from being removed from office. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton was acquitted Saturday of charges in 16 articles of impeachment after a nearly two week trial in the Senate. Lawmakers were weighing whether to sustain the articles and remove Paxton from office. Yes, it is true that my intervention through TRUTH SOCIAL saved Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton from going down at the hands of Democrats and some Republicans, headed by PAUL RINO (Ryan), Karl Rove , and others, almost all of whom came back to reason when confronted with the facts, Trump said in a Monday post on Truth Social. He continued to praise Paxton, cheering his return to the attorney generals office. Paxton had been suspended since the House voted 121-23 to impeach him in late May. Ken has been a great A.G., and now he can go back to work for the wonderful people of Texas. It was my honor to have helped correct this injustice! Paul Ryan is the former speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives and Karl Rove was a deputy chief of staff and chief adviser to George W. Bush. Rove authored a Wall Street Journal opinion article headlined The End Is Near for Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. Trump offered words of support for Paxton in a Sept. 14 post on Truth Social. He congratulated Paxton on Saturday for a great and historic Texas sized VICTORY when cleared by senators. Paxton has been one of Trumps top allies in Texas, earning the former presidents endorsement during his 2022 reelection bid. The Texas official spoke at the Jan. 6, 2021, rally in Washington and, in a case the Supreme Court declined to take up, sued four states won by President Joe Biden in 2020. Trump was impeached and acquitted twice. Donald Trump decided to take time during Rosh Hashanah the start of the Jewish High Holy days and the celebration of the New Year to blame liberal Jews for voting to destroy America and Israel. Just a quick reminder for liberal Jews who voted to destroy America & Israel because you believed in false narratives!, he wrote on Truth Social on Sunday, presumably referring to the American Jewish support for Joe Biden in the 2020 election. Lets hope you learned from your mistake & make better choices moving forward! The leading Republican presidential candidate then shared what appeared to be a flyer boasting of Trumps record on Israel and pro-Jewish causes. Wake Up Sheep. What Nazi / Anti Semite ever did this for the Jewish people or Israel? the flyer reads. The flyer goes on to crow about moving the American Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem (no other president had the balls to do it) and endorsing Israels sovereignty over the Golan Heights and over settlements in Judea & Samaria also known as the West Bank. The flyer also mentions Trumps signing the Never Again Education Bill into law, which funds Holocaust awareness which was praised by organizations, such as the Anti-Defamation League. Clearly, one of the Greatest Anti Semites of our time! the flyer jokes. Strangely, it neglects Trumps notorious statement that neo-Nazi marchers in Charlottesville, Virginia were very fine people. Or his speech in front of prominent Republican Jews, telling them that they were manipulative money-grubbers. Or his dinner with Kanye West after the rapper tweeted that he was going death con3 on JEWISH people. The time in between Rosh Hoshanah and Yom Kippur, the day of atonement, is when Jews are supposed to ask for forgiveness from those they may have hurt. Trump used this faithful, soul-searching time to make it about himself. Its unlikely to have much impact; American Jews have traditionally voted overwhelmingly for Democrats and 2024 looks to be a continuation of the trend. According to a poll by the Jewish Electoral Institute, which found among 800 Jewish voters, Biden leads Trump by 72 percent. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Click here to read the full article. Modestos most experimental bar (Laboratories is in its name and everything) is branching into another area of the culinary sciences namely food. Lo-Fi Laboratories, downtown Modestos artisan cocktail lounge, has started serving small plate dinners and soon will open its long-planned lunch/brunch spot in the vacant next-door restaurant on the corner of J and 14th streets. Food has long been a part of Lo-Fi owner Lauren Jamiesons life. She got her start cooking at downtowns Harvest Moon before leaving for college in New Orleans where she also continued her chef work. The Modesto native opened the craft cocktail spot in the summer of 2019, but had only a few months of operation before the pandemic shut the bar down for more than a year. Head bartender Roni Zimmerman mixes drinks at Lo-Fi Laboratories artisan cocktail lounge in Modesto, Calif., Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023. Earlier this year, after the December closure of longtime small plates restaurant Concetta, Lo-Fi began to serve food with the help of former Concetta head chef Nathan Heese. Jamieson had asked Concetta owner Paul Tremayne if it was OK to poach Heese and some of his popular recipes for her bar. With his blessing, Heese began serving weekly small plate menus mid-February. The rotating menu is, you guessed it, experimental. While there are a couple of staples, including the much-loved Concetta deviled eggs with shrimp on top, the rest is whatever looks good, is freshest and seems fun for the Modesto chef. Deviled eggs with spicy shrimp at Lo-Fi Laboratories artisan cocktail lounge in Modesto, Calif., Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023. A Downey graduate who worked at Concetta the last two years, Heese has also cooked at other popular downtown spots like Skewers and Commonwealth. He has brought over some other Concetta favorites besides the deviled eggs, like the Brussels sprouts and pork scallopini. But then, pretty much, he makes whatever else he feels like. He has had free reign over the next-door kitchen since he started. I wanted to be part of the experimenting and creativity here, Heese said. Chef Nathan Heese slices yellowtail for a sashimi dish at Lo-Fi Laboratories artisan cocktail lounge in Modesto, Calif., Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023. Each week he creates a new menu, which is served Wednesday to Saturday nights. You can find the offerings posted on the bars Instagram page most weeks. Much like the bar itself, which does not have an official sign, you kind of have to be in the know to find it. But those who do will find everything from yellowtail sashimi and roasted cauliflower tacos to Duxelles pinwheels (mushrooms in pastry) and smoked salmon on cucumber crostinis. Each weeks menu has about eight items to choose from, including a dessert pick. The shared plates range from about $9 to $15 each. Yellowtail sashimi at Lo-Fi Laboratories artisan cocktail lounge in Modesto, Calif., Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023. When he started at Lo-Fi, Heese had the option to do regular dinners or small plates again, and decided to stick with the shareable dishes but make them change regularly. I think if you have a rotating menu it gets people excited about what is coming next, he said. Small plates with seasonal menus are also more sustainable and easier to source and supply, cutting out some of the issues restaurants have had since the pandemic with the cost and availability of certain foods. Its a trend being embraced by more area restaurants, including nearby Chinns International which finished renovations and opened this January in the former Concetta space. P.F.G quesadilla, left, and yellowtail sashimi dish at Lo-Fi Laboratories artisan cocktail lounge in Modesto, Calif., Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023. Lo-Fis own renovations of the adjoining restaurant have taken longer to complete. The new site has been in the works since the summer of 2021 when Chefs of New York moved from the corner spot to a larger space downtown on 13th Street before ultimately closing this year. But the slow progress is paying off and Jamieson hopes to have her new restaurant open by early October. The new eatery will be called Lo-Fi Soda Lab & Luncheonette and will start small. Jamieson will go back to her kitchen roots and cook the breakfast, brunch and lunch fare. Like with her cocktail lounge, do-it-yourself experimentation will be on full display. Expect it to start with a limited menu and schedule, with brunch on Saturday and Sunday. She doesnt have a timeframe for when the hours will expand yet. Like the Lo-Fi cocktail lounge, the restaurant will have murals by local artists on the walls and other eclectic touches. Scofflaw and Violet fizz cocktails with Heirloom tomato salad at Lo-Fi Laboratories artisan cocktail lounge in Modesto, Calif., Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023. Just as the bar side makes all of its own juices, syrups, mixers and garnishes, the restaurant will make its own sauces and even sweet confections like marshmallow and chocolate syrup. You can expect to see breakfast favorites, like French toast, but with a twist of an unusual filling or topping. And Jamieson said theyll work their way up to making their own sodas too, as the name suggests. Ill be experimenting with flavor combinations and things like that, she said. I dont ever have a set plan in mind. I kind of let things happen. Lo-Fi Laboratories, at 1323 J St. in Modesto, is open for food 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday (bar is open Tuesday to Saturday). For more information visit loficocktails.com or www.instagram.com/loficocktails. Lo-Fi Laboratories artisan cocktail lounge in Modesto, Calif., Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023. Drakes offensive lyrics from his appearance on Migoss 2013 track Versace (Remix) have resurfaced after he used an image of Halle Berry without her permission. The Canadian artist, 36, rapped about trying to give [Berry] a baby in the controversial collaboration with the Georgia-based hip-hop group. On 13 September, while teasing his newest single Slime You Out on Instagram, Drake shared a photo of the Catwoman actor, 57, covered in green gunk after being slimed at the 2012 Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards. Days later, Berry responded to an Instagram follower who had asked what her thoughts were regarding Drake using the picture for his single. Didnt get my permission. Thats not cool, I thought better of him! she wrote on Friday (15 September), adding in a follow-up comment: Hence my post today. When people you admire disappoint you, you have to be the bigger person and move on! Drake did not immediately respond to The Independents request for comment. Amid the drama, several commenters reacted to the grim situation on X/Twitter, with one pointing out that Drakes verse in the former hip-hop trio Migoss Versace (Remix), comes to mind because he just said f*** her consent for REAL in real life. Grim. Drake, who in 2013 rapped on Migos Versace remix that Im tryna give Halle Berry a baby and no-one can stop me. https://t.co/4y42D5hf7t Musa Okwonga (@Okwonga) September 17, 2023 In the middle of the 2013 song, Drake rapped the lines: Take a famous girl out where there's no paparazzi (flash!) / I'm tryna give Halle Berry a baby and no one can stop me (smash!). Fingers crossed that this is the beginning of the end for him. Hes very consistent in not respecting consent let him keep digging himself into a hole so it all eventually comes out, someone wrote. Hey Guys please learn this, NO MEANS NO!!!!!!! a third said. The Independent has contacted Drake and Berrys respective representatives for comment. Another defended Berry, arguing that regardless of if Getty Images owns the image or not, its still a PICTURE OF HER?? She has the right to be upset. The truth is Drake shouldnt have asked if he was going to use it regardless of her saying no. Thats spitting on her face, one added. While the photo of Berry shared by Drake featured a Parental Advisory Explicit Content logo, suggesting it was the album art for the single, Slime You Out was released on Friday (15 September) with the same hand-drawn cover as his forthcoming album, For All the Dogs. The image was created by the rappers five-year-old son, Adonis, and features a drawing of a white dog with red eyes on a black square background. Drakes latest album release, Her Loss a joint project with 21 Savage came in November. Before then, in June 2022, he released the house-inspired album Honestly, Nevermind, which critics described as a departure from his usual hip-hop sound. A group of brave beachgoers banded together to save a large stranded shark that washed ashore on Pensacola Beach in Florida. Dramatic mobile phone footage was captured by Tina Fey, who came to the beach from Texas with her husband Josh Fey, to celebrate their anniversary, she told WKRG. What went from a relaxing day out soaking up the sun, suddenly turned into a heart-stopping moment as the group tried to roll the shark back into the sea. In a Facebook post by Ms Fey, she said that they had called wildlife rescue and lifeguards, but was told there was nothing they could do to help the beached shark. It just showed up while we were swimming. I just so happened to beach itself right in front of us, Ms Fey wrote. We took action to get him back in the water since the wildlife people and lifeguards told us there was not[hing] they could do. Despite its lively thrashing and huge razor teeth, it took three beachgoers to get a hold of the sharks tail to move the mammoth sea creature off the beach into shallow water. The shark at first aggressively flailed about while the beachgoers manoeuvred it further. In the video, you can hear Ms Fey exclaim babe, look at them freaking teeth, before zooming in on the monstrous set of jaws. At this point, four people had gotten behind the shark in the water trying to pull the heavy animal. The shark showed its huge jaws as four men were on its tail pulling it back into the sea (Tina Fey) Onlookers were concerned that the operation may be too dangerous to complete without lifeguards there. If I didnt have an eight-month pregnant wife, Id get in there and help you, said one person off-camera. After a few attempts of dragging the beast back into the sea, the shark finally returned to the water, with Mr Fey guiding his tail out back into the ocean. After the shark had gotten its strength back, it started to swim away, with the beachgoers rejoicing. They may have been pleased that the shark was alive, but even more relieved no ones limbs met their fate with the sharks large jaws. Thank you to the guys that helped us, Mr Fey told WKRG. You know, if it wasnt for them, I would not be able to move her. She was every bit of 5 to 600 pounds; I would think. I couldnt budge her; it took four of us to enter into the water. I hope everybody else that comes to beaches and sees a distressed animal like that, you know, with sea turtles or anything like that, that they help them out. The creature was believed to be a Mako shark, an aggressive predator that is found mostly off the East Coast, the Gulf of Mexico and in the Caribbean Sea, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Sharks are very common in Floridas nearshore waters and bays as they use them for nursery grounds for their pups, says the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. A pretrial hearing date is set for three Park Ridge teens who were charged with felonies in the alleged theft of tens of thousands of dollars worth of concert wristbands in Kenosha County, Wisconsin, according to the Kenosha County Circuit Court Clerks office. A criminal complaint in the case describes the stolen property as admission wristbands for a country music festival called Country Thunder. According to Kenosha County court records, Thomas Bernatek, Amelia Miulli and Morgan Timmons, all 18, were each charged with a class G felony in July. All three teens are 2023 Maine South High School graduates. Advertisement Three Wisconsin lawyers are representing the three teens. At a Sept. 12 pretrial hearing, called a judicial pretrial in Wisconsin, court records show that the district attorney asked for an adjournment to gather more information on the possibility of the defendents paying restitution to Country Thunder. A second pretrial hearing is set for Jan. 19. Kenosha County Deputy District Attorney Carli McNeill told Pioneer Press/Chicago Tribune via email that in Wisconsin, the pretrial is more about updating the judge on the status of the case, and that any discussion of a plea offer happens before it takes place, between the district attorney and defense attorney. Advertisement McNeill said the District Attorney is reviewing discovery, working on the restitution issue, and seeing if the cases will be resolved with a plea agreement. As this is a theft case, the victim (Country Thunder) has a right to restitution for their monetary loss, McNeill said. Usually the victim provides documentation or an explanation to show the amount of the loss and that is typically something the state and the defense attorneys review before deciding how to proceed on a case. McNeill said restitution is really just compensating the victim for monetary losses as a result of the crime. It can include a lot of things as long as the costs arise due to the crime. When it comes to penalties that the teens might face, McNeill said, Sentencing is always up to the discretion of the judge. If the district attorney and defense lawyers cant reach an agreement, the case will head to trial, said McNeill. She added that it is typical for a case to have multiple pretrials to work out details, or because new evidence might arise. Bernateks lawyer, Patrick Cafferty, said he had no comment on the case. The other attorneys also did not respond to requests for comment. The case dates from July 25, when, according to a criminal complaint from Kenosha County Court Clerks office, the site manager for the country music festival reported a burglary July 23, and told responding Kenosha County Sheriffs deputies that the festivals will call booth had been tampered with after it had closed the previous night. According to the complaint, at least $50,000 worth of wristbands providing admission to the festival were missing. Upon checking the internet, according to the complaint, the site manager found that a male, later identified as Bernatek, had posted some wristbands for sale. The complaint states that a detective, posing as a ticket buyer, messaged Bernatek on social media and arranged to meet the teen at the festival site. Officers detained Bernatek once they confirmed he had wristbands, the complaint stated. Advertisement A sheriffs department investigation found, per the complaint, that Bernatek and Miulli communicated via text about the wristbands and selling them, but Miulli later denied knowledge of plans to sell the wristbands. Class G felonies carry a penalty of up to 10 years in prison or a fine of up to $25,000, or both, according to criminal complaints associated with the matter. Chicago Tribune reporter Caroline Kubzansky contributed to this story. A 25-year-old driver has been charged in the death of Arianna Landis, an eleventh grade student at Northeastern High School who was struck by a vehicle while trying to board a school bus last year. Marie C. McGahan, 25, of the Red Lion area, has been charged with homicide by vehicle, meeting/overtaking a school bus, careless driving unintentional death, careless driving and failure to comply with license restrictions. She was released on $10,000 bail, according to court records. McGahan is awaiting trial in the York County Court of Common Pleas. Driver told police: 'I must have been distracted' Landis was walking to the stopped school bus in the 500 block of York Haven Road on Oct. 26, 2022 when she was struck by a car. She died Nov. 10 from the injuries she suffered. At the scene of the crash, police asked bystanders who was operating a silver 2021 Hyundai that had damage to the front end on the passenger side. McGahan said she was, according to the affidavit of probable cause. McGahan told the officer that "she must have been going too fast because by the time she saw the red lights from the school bus it was too late," the affidavit states. She said Landis was walking to the bus when she hit her. While McGahan underwent field sobriety tests, police asked her what happened. She said: "I must have been distracted," the affidavit states. Police did not find any drug or alcohol impairment, but McGahan told officers that she had only slept two to three hours the night before, the affidavit states. A witness who had been following McGahan for several miles told police that she was not speeding. However, she did not hit the brakes or make any evasive driving actions until after driving through the bus stop, the affidavit states. Police found that McGahan has a restriction on her driver's license that requires her to wear glasses or contacts, the affidavit states. She was not wearing either the day of the crash. Police obtained video footage from the bus, and it showed that the lights and signs were working properly. The lights had been activated for traffic to stop for appoximately eight seconds, the affidavit states. Reenactment of the crash Earlier this year, police re-enacted the crash during the early morning hours before sunrise, the affidavit states. An officer drove a 2021 Hyundai Accent west on York Haven Road four separate times twice at 35 mph and twice at 40 mph. The school bus was stopped with its lights and signs working. In all four instances, the driver recognized that a school bus was stopped ahead and the lights were activated at least 700 feet from where the person was crossing the street, the affidavit states. Based on the evidence and reenactment, "Ms. Mcgahan had enough distance to stop her vehicle" and if she did, "she would not have hit the victim in this incident," the affidavit states. McGahan could not be reached for comment. This article originally appeared on York Daily Record: Driver charged with killing Northeastern student boarding a school bus Two men in the Netherlands, one of whom works for the Dutch Defense Ministry, have been arrested on suspicion of evading sanctions against Russia, the Dutch Fiscal Information and Investigation Service (FIOD) announced on Sept. 15. Both men are from Arnhem, a city in the east of the country, and are thought to have worked together to export plane parts to Russia immediately after the start of the full-scale invasion in February 2022. The first suspect, a 53-year-old man, was arrested on Aug. 29. The second suspect, a 48-year-old employee of the Defense Ministry, was arrested on Aug. 30. Searches at a home, business premises, and a storage space have revealed 250,000 ($267,000) and $ 8,000 in cash, as well as aircraft parts, weapons, and ammunition. The men were involved with the export of aircraft parts to Russia via the United Arab Emirates and Tajikistan, according to the Dutch investigative journalism website Follow the Money. While the Dutch Public Prosecution Service is investigating dozens of cases of suspected sanctions circumvention, this case is entirely unique, Krijn Schramade, a journalist from Follow the Money, told the Kyiv Independent. Read also: Media: Western military products worth billions of dollars flow into Russia despite sanctions It is the first case where the suspect is thought to have profited from business with Russia while employed by a government ministry that regularly sends military support to Ukraine, Schramade said. The man is "likely a soldier, not a civil servant," and the investigations concern his business dealings, which took place separate from his main job, Schramade explained. Follow the Money found out that the man had worked at the Defense Ministry since the 1990s, but his employment has now been suspended. His suspected business partner is thought to have no connection to the Dutch Defense Ministry. On Sept. 14, the pre-trial detention for both suspects was extended for 60 days. The investigation is being carried out by the Dutch Functional Public Prosecutor's Office, which combats economic fraud, after receiving information from the country's Financial Intelligence Unit. The military police are also involved in the investigation due to the involvement of a Defense Ministry employee. Read also: Investigative Stories from Ukraine: Pro-Russian politicians under sanctions in US, EU yet not in Ukraine Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. An effort to transfer dozens of disabled Haitian children to safety in Jamaica, after three died because of escalating gang violence, remains deadlocked, with the head of Haitis child welfare agency reprimanding the orphanage for not reporting the deaths and the prime minister remaining silent. Arielle Jeanty Villedrouin, the director of Haitis Institute of Social Welfare and Research, said while she understands the HaitiChildren orphanages concern for the well-being of these vulnerable children and the need to provide them with adequate medical care and protection, she cannot support the transfer of all 62 of its disabled children to another country. It is inconceivable and legally inadmissible to transfer an orphanage from one country to another, she said in a note that she shared with the Miami Herald. It is up to the Haitian State to determine the best approach to respond to this complex situation, taking into account the protection of children and respect for national and international laws. In a story on Sept. 10, the Miami Herald detailed the plight of 62 disabled children and adults at HaitiChildren, an orphanage about an hours north of the gang-ridden capital, and the fight to temporarily house them in Jamaica, where an internationally renown Catholic charity, Mustard Seed Communities, has agreed to care for them until it is safe for them to return to Haiti. Located in the rural town of Arcahaie on Haitis coast, the orphanage is at the crossroads of the territories of several heavily armed warring gangs that in recent weeks have cut off safe passage, kidnapped staff and invaded the facility, threatening to put the kids out of their misery, according to co-founder Susie Krabacher. An American, she has been caring for Haitis disabled, orphaned and abandoned children since 1994. Three of the children died last month as they were being rushed to Bernard Mevs Hospital, an hour away in Port-au-Prince, to see a specialist about their uncontrollable seizures. Gang members blocked the road and forced the vehicle to turn back, said Krabacher, who lives in Colordo and hasnt been able to visit the facility since March because of gang control of the roads. A fourth resident, who like the other three suffered from cerebral palsy, later died in his sleep. Despite the dangers the kids face, Krabachers effort to move them to Jamaica has met with esistance, as the child welfare office chastises her for not reporting the deaths, and accuses her of lacking respect for Haitian institutions because neither she nor her staff will visit in person to discuss the issue, instead relying on emails, phone calls and letters. This is Haitian pride at its worst. They would rather punish me than save their own children, said Krabacher, noting that the child welfare office itself has not sent anyone to check on the children despite insisting they are the governments responsibility. This is a situation in which the only reason [Prime Minister Ariel Henry ] and [Villedrouin] will not let these dying children go is pride. Getting to the orphanage from Port-au-Prince means traveling on gang-controlled roads, including National Road No. 1, which passes by Canaan, the expansive post-earthquake settlement at the northern edge of the capital where several churchgoers were killed last month when they dared to march against a dangerous gang that calls itself the Taliban. While some Haitians ontinue to make the trek, Krabacher said most of her staff refuses and she is finding it increasingly difficult to safeguard the health of the disabled children, who are among 112 kids HaitiChildren has in its care. Our doctors have ceased being able to come to the campus. We have only one brave doctor left as well a nurse practitioner. Out of 80 employees, we have 40 left who risk their lives tom take fishing boats to come to work at the orphanage and bring with them our supplies, medicine and food, she said. Villedrouin said that she was surprised to learn from the Herald story that several children had died. No official statement has been made about the deaths to the social welfare office, she said, adding that it is of the utmost importance that all relevant authorities are informed, as soon as possible, of such events, in order to ensure transparency, accountability and the protection of the rights of the child. The founder of HaitiChildren, an orphanage located north of Haitis capital in the city of Arcahaie says gangs have been preventing staff from taking some of the disabled children to see specialists in Port-au-Prince. As a result, some kids have died and there is now an international effort to get them relocated temporarily to Jamaica. Regarding the dead children, Krabacher said its been very difficult to even get a coroner to come and bring our children to the morgue to prepare them for a proper funeral. At times the coroner will not come immediately due to the gangs blocking the road, as they did when the children died trying to reach the hospital. She called Villedrouins request for a face-to-face meeting, unreasonable, given the U.S. embassys recent warning for American citizens to leave Haiti immediately due to the ongoing gang violence and kidnappings in Port-au-Prince. Its an unnecessary risk to our team. We have had eight employees kidnapped already and I will not put them in needless danger again, Krabacher said. We dont have the luxury to send out remaining staff to risk their lives to come visit [Villedrouin]. She refuses to speak on the phone or do a Zoom call. Krabacher said since the gang crisis began escalating, she unsuccessfully tried on several occasions to reach Villedrouin as early as June to discuss the crisis were experiencing and asking for help. Krabacher and supporters of moving the kids to Jamaica, which include Luis Moreno, a former U.S. ambassador to Jamaica and former deputy chief of missions in Haiti, have instead relied on letters and emails sent to both Henry and Villedrouin. In an email to Villedrouin she shared with the Herald, Krabacher said: Your children need your help now. These children need pediatrics specialists. These children need 24/7 care which we have given them their entire life until our staff has been threatened and detained trying to reach the HaitiChildren campus. Villedrouin acknowledges that despite her stance, if Prime Minister Henry were to make the decision, there is nothing she could do to keep the kids from being moved. But while I am head of social welfare, I have a responsibility, a mission. I cannot make a decision based on an email, or an article I read and then say, Yes, I agree, they can come get them, Villedrouin said. Oh my God, they would say that I am being irresponsible and the criticism I would get would be even worse. Henry, one of just three neurologists in Haiti, has not responded to a Herald request for comment. Since June of 2023, the founder of HaitiChildren has been trying to relocate 62 disabled children at her Haiti orphanage to Jamaica, where the charity Mustard Seed is willing to care for them. The Haiti charity was founded by Susie Krabacher, who has been caring for orphaned and disabled children in Haiti since 1994. The prime minister was first approached about the childrens plight in June while attending political talks in Jamaica, where both Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Foreign Minister Kamina Johnson Smith intervened on behalf of Mustard Seed Communities. A respected physician with a background in public health, Henry served in several government posts, including the health ministry, before stepping into the current job after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise. More than most people, Henry understands the limitations of Haitis broken healthcare and social welfare system, having also served as Haitis social affairs ministry and directing the neurosurgery program at Bernard Mevs Hospital, where he trained the physicians who care for the kids in HaitiChildrens care. Still, he has remained silent, acquiescing instead to Villedrouin, who has served as the head of the social welfare agency through two presidential administrations. Villedrouin said she is open to discussing the childrens plight on a case-by-case basis. But she also told Krabacher in an email shortly after the Heralds story published that moving the children out of the country is not necessarily the best option. It would also require huge commitment from the host country and organization. Furthermore, relocation outside of Haiti can also create dangerous precedents, as other orphanages may also want to move out, Villedrouin said. Krabacher said she has not suggested in any way that her orphanage HaitiChildren be moved to another country, which I find unacceptable after 30 years of building and developing a suitable environment to raise special-needs and severely disabled children and young adults. But relocating her orphanage inside Haiti, as Villedrouin has suggested, is also not feasible, she said. Besides the financial cost, the disabled children cannot be more than an hour from a neurologist, given their medical needs, which include cerebral palsy, Down syndrome and other brain disorders. There are also children with heart disease, Krabacher added, who need several levels of care only a specialist can provide. Most, if not all, of those specialists are in the capital, where gangs control more than 80% of the territory. Is there any government facility or aid in Haiti for the disabled? No, Krabacher said. Every single child placed in my care by was either disabled or so sick they were not expected to live due to starvation or congenital diseases. The disabled kids plight has divided Haitians. While some support the move to Jamaica, others argue that the children should not be moved and the orphanage, like others, can be relocated. Villedrouin shared copies of several letters she said she has received from groups opposing the evacuation and supporting her stance. One of those groups, the National Associative Network for the Integration of Disabled People, said HaitiChildren should be relocated to another area in Haiti, such as the far north. The whole country is not affected by this wave of insecurity. Unfortunately, this situation affects many other Institutions in the country. Everyone is forced to lead an unacceptable life, particularly in Port-au-Prince and its surroundings, the group wrote to Velledrouin. People with disabilities have the right to live and grow in their country. Villedrouin said her office is open and available and she invites Krabacher to come discuss the matter. This is not the only center that I have that have disabled children in it, she said. I understand that the pressure is enormous. But the pressure is harder on me than it is on them, because they are speaking about one center and I have 700-plus centers I am handling. Elon Musk , a US billionaire and founder of Tesla and SpaceX, believes that many lives are being lost in Ukraine's counteroffensive for the sake of minor territorial gains. Source: Musk, commenting on a tweet by American economist David Sacks Details: US economist David Sacks posted a map of the fighting in Ukraine, claiming that "Ukrainian territorial gains from their much-vaunted counteroffensive [highlighted in blue] are so miniscule they can barely be seen on a map." Musk replied: "So much death for so little [territory]". Previously: Earlier, Musk had called for a "truce" between Ukraine and Russia, arguing that "every day that passes, more Ukrainian and Russian youth die to gain and lose small pieces of land, with borders barely changing". Afterwards, Russian President Vladimir Putin called Musk a talented and outstanding person. Background: CNN, which obtained an excerpt of Musk's biography written by American journalist and author Walter Isaacson, reported that in 2022, Musk supposedly secretly ordered the disconnection of Starlink communications off the coast of Crimea to disrupt Ukraine's attack on the Russian navy in the city of Sevastopol. Musk confirmed the disruption of the drone attack on the Russian fleet in Crimea. The billionaire said he did not switch off Starlink satellite communications for the drones but refused to turn them on at Ukraine's request. He also reiterates the "need for a truce". Vadym Skibitskyi, a representative of Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, said the information that the billionaire ordered Starlink to be turned off over Crimea to disrupt the attack on the Russian fleet should be carefully checked out. US Senator Elizabeth Warren has demanded an investigation into SpaceX. On the night of 12-13 September, Starlink also had a significant outage during an attack on the bay in Sevastopol. 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! Elon Musk expressed his disappointment in Ukraine's summer counteroffensive in an X post on Sunday. "So much death for so little," Musk wrote in his post. The billionaire has been previously accused of pushing pro-Russian sentiments. Elon Musk who Ukrainian officials recently blasted for blocking an attack on Russia's Black Sea Fleet derided the success of Ukraine's summer counteroffensive on Sunday. "So much death for so little," Musk wrote in a post on X, formerly Twitter, on Sunday. Musk was responding to venture capitalist David Sacks' thread on the topic. Sacks first started the thread on June 19, arguing that the counteroffensive "is failing to achieve any of its originally stated objectives" of rolling back Russia's territorial gains and kickstarting peace negotiations. Sacks has been updating his thread frequently with articles on the subject. The September 17 post Musk was responding to appeared to be a map of Ukraine, with the caption: "UPDATE: "Ukrainian territorial gains from their much-vaunted counteroffensive [highlighted in blue] are so miniscule they can barely be seen on a map." Musk, for his part, has weighed in many times on the war in Ukraine. In October 2022, Musk posted a peace plan proposal on X. This plan involved Ukraine recognizing Russia's annexation of Crimea and "remaining neutral" by not joining NATO. Musk's idea drew widespread condemnation from Ukrainian officials at the time, with Ukrainian diplomat Andrii Melnyk telling the billionaire to "fuck off." Anton Gerashchenko, an advisor to the minister of internal affairs in Ukraine, said Musk's pro-Russia stance made it seem like the Russians had hacked his social media account. Musk also effectively sabotaged a Ukrainian attack on Russia's navy vessels last year when he refused to turn on access to the SpaceX-run Starlink satellites , per an excerpt from the Walter Isaacson -penned biography about Musk. Ukraine launched its counteroffensive on Russia in June, per the Council on Foreign Relations. War analyst Jan Kallberg at the Center for European Policy Analysis said last month that the counteroffensive was making incremental but "substantial progress." Representatives for Musk did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Insider sent outside regular business hours. Read the original article on Business Insider Elon Musk once hung up on a Tesla worker who called from a burning factory, per the Daily Mail. The historian Niall Ferguson recounted how he met with the billionaire for drinks when the video call came. When the worker was unsure how important the fire was, Musk said: "Then don't bother me." Elon Musk once hung up on a Tesla worker who video called him from inside a burning factory, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The historian Niall Ferguson was writing for the outlet about his experiences meeting with Musk, comparing him to a modern-day Napoleon. He included an anecdote where Musk and Ferguson met up for a drink in Menlo Park back in 2017. Ferguson's 18-year-old son was about to travel to Africa and sought advice from the South Africa-born billionaire. But the historian says Musk was "preoccupied," especially when a video call came through from one of his Tesla factories, which seemed to be on fire. "Is it important?" Musk asked the worker, according to Ferguson. And when the man in the apparently burning factory was unsure in his response, Musk snapped back: "Then don't bother me," and hung up. In an X post responding to Ferguson's article, Musk did not deny the incident. Although he did accuse Ferguson of embellishing the extent of his relationship with the billionaire, saying they had only met up six times over the past ten years. The article's headline describes Ferguson as a "friend and confidant" to Musk. "The article misses the mark," Musk wrote on X. Musk's impatience is also described in several episodes featured in Walter Isaacson's recent biography of the Tesla CEO. One SpaceX engineer described being called back to work despite having drunk some wine, but they were fearful of facing Musk's wrath if they didn't show up. "I worried about getting pulled over for drunk driving, but that seemed less of a risk than ignoring Elon," he told Isaacson. And last Christmas Eve, Musk spent the day moving servers at an X data center after threatening to fire an employee who said the job would take at least six months, rather than the 90 days he wanted. Tesla did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment. Read the original article on Business Insider Opening Day action of the 88th Texas Legislature at the Texas Capitol showing Attorney General Ken Paxton conferring with Gov. Greg Abbott outside the Senate chamber before his swearing in ceremony in Jan. 10, 2023. Credit: Bob Daemmrich for the Texas Tribune When Ken Paxton became attorney general of Texas, he inherited a well-oiled conservative legal war machine that served as the linchpin of a slow but effective conservative takeover of the judicial system. He returns now, impeached but not removed, to run a much different operation. Many of the highest profile attorneys have fled the office, some into the arms of the House impeachment managers. The state has had a dismal record the past few years in front of a conservative Supreme Court, and embarrassing missteps in significant human trafficking cases. And the impeachment proceedings, while saving Paxtons job, did a number on the agencys reputation, morale and relationships with external partners. After he was acquitted, Paxton said in a statement that his full focus would now be on challenging the Biden administration in court: Buckle up because your lawless policies will not go unchallenged. We will not allow you to shred the constitution and infringe on the rights of Texans. You will be held accountable. But Paxton, newly emboldened and never one to shy from conflict, will need to first find a way to steady the ship if he plans to continue to wage the ideological wars that have animated Texas attorneys general for the past 25 years. Evolution of an office The first time Ken Paxton offered Jeff Mateer a job, Mateer said no. Mateer was general counsel at First Liberty Institute, a conservative Christian religious liberty law firm in Plano, where he was working to get prayer back into public schools, permit religious businesses to refuse service to LGBTQ+ people and restrict public funding of contraception. Quite frankly, I had my dream job, Mateer testified last week. But he asked me to pray about it. And my wife and I prayed about it, and we felt like we were supposed to come down here. It wasnt just Mateer. In the early years of Paxtons tenure, conservative lawyers left plum positions working for right-wing law firms and politicians to come to work at the Texas Attorney Generals office. The office was known as a beacon for the conservative legal movement, said Ryan Bangert, who joined the office in 2019 after working for Josh Hawley in Missouri. I believed Texas was leading the way in representing the interests of the conservative legal movement here in the U.S., he said on the stand. Three decades ago, state attorney general offices were, by and large, bureaucratic workhorses that chased down child support and defended state agencies when they got sued. Occasionally, theyd team up with other states on consumer protection issues or environmental protection. But in the late 1990s, state attorneys general began to step into their power, taking a more proactive role in federal litigation. In Texas, this coincided with the Republican takeover of all statewide elected offices and, eventually, total domination in the Legislature. On the left, this was led by states like California, Massachusetts, Washington and New York. But on the right, no state did more than Texas. Beginning under now-Sen. John Cornyn, and accelerating significantly under his successor, now-Gov. Greg Abbott, the Texas Office of the Attorney General took an ambitious, aggressive stance in court, barraging the federal government with increasingly partisan lawsuits. Texas became even more central to the growing conservative legal movement after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 2007 that states have special solicitude to file lawsuits. Compared to other plaintiffs, Texas would have an easier time convincing judges to take their cases. The state began pairing up more frequently with conservative Christian legal organizations like First Liberty. By the time Paxton took over in 2015, Texas had made a name for itself as the most influential state attorney generals office for the conservative movement. It had also become a training ground for conservative attorneys looking to get courtroom experience. The office helped launch the careers of now-Sen. Ted Cruz, conservative firebrand Jonathan Mitchell and almost a dozen lawyers who went on to be appointed to the federal bench under President Donald Trump. Getting a job in the AGs office, or the solicitor general's office, in Texas, certainly opens up a lot of doors not just for positions in politics, but also for judgeships down the road, said Daniel Bennett, a political scientist who studies the Christian legal movement at John Brown University in Arkansas. They might see that as a way to get more of their own, long term, on the bench. Mateer, Bangert and others flocked to Texas for a chance to help craft this nationally influential legal strategy. It was a mutually beneficial arrangement for Paxton. When he first started, we didn't really know what he was going to do, said Josh Blackman, a South Texas College of Law professor who is active in the Federalist Society and friends with many of the early Paxton hires. He was a state senator, won a contested primary, there was the security fraud stuff. But by bringing in people like Mateer and others, it was like, Ok, he's surrounding himself with the right people. But eventually, Paxtons reputation began to catch up to him even in the eyes of those politically aligned, hand-picked deputies. Office turnover In 2020, eight senior officials with the Texas Office of the Attorney General went to the FBI to report allegations of corruption by Paxton. Among those who reported were Mateer, Bangert, Blake Brickman, a former chief of staff to conservative Kentucky governor Matt Bevin, and David Maxwell, a longtime Texas Ranger with a sterling law enforcement reputation. We were protecting the interests of the state and ultimately, I believe, protecting the interests of the attorney general and, in my view, signing our professional death warrant, Bangert testified. We understood the gravity of that act. Everyone who reported to the FBI either resigned or was fired, setting off a series of events culminating with the impeachment trial and Paxtons acquittal by the senators. Inside the agency, this set off another kind of chaos. In one fell swoop, the agency had lost Paxtons first assistant, his deputy first assistant and the deputy attorneys general overseeing the divisions of policy, administration, civil litigation, criminal investigations and legal counsel. Mateer, who resigned and returned to leading First Liberty, was replaced by Brent Webster, a former assistant district attorney in Williamson County. Webster has been accused by the whistleblowers of leading the retaliation campaign against them. Another top Paxton aide, Drew Wicker, testified last week that Webster discouraged him from speaking to the FBI about the allegations against Paxton. Wicker has since left the agency, too. Webster also supported Paxtons long-shot federal lawsuit seeking to overturn the 2020 election results in four battleground states that went for Biden, which other conservative attorneys, inside the agency and out, cautioned him against filing. The State Bar of Texas filed professional misconduct lawsuits against Paxton and Webster, accusing them of being dishonest for misrepresenting allegations of voting improprieties in their Supreme Court petition. The Supreme Court swiftly rejected Texas petition. Notably, Kyle Hawkins, then the solicitor general, did not put his name on the filing. A few weeks later, Hawkins resigned and was replaced by Judd Stone, who would later take a leave of absence to defend Paxton in his impeachment hearing. [Texas AG Ken Paxtons habit of refusing to defend state agencies cost taxpayers] This degree of high-level turnover created ripple effects at all levels of the agency. Top agency spots were filled by campaign donors, some of whom left quickly in disgrace, and the office quietly dropped several human trafficking cases after losing track of a key victim, the Associated Press reported. Paxton also made a habit of refusing to represent state agencies when they faced lawsuits, a key aspect of his offices work. When it came to the all-important federal litigation against the Biden administration, the agency continued to push a relentless pace. But under Webster, the agency focused on filing minimally viable lawsuits, as he and Aaron Reitz, deputy attorney general for legal strategy, said on Moment of Truth, a conservative podcast in 2021. You can amend it and make it more perfect later, Reitz said. But you cant let the perfect be the enemy of the good when it comes to the speed here. Texas was running the same play in each of these cases every single time, Reitz said. The Biden administration is messing around with detention standards, or public health regulations, or migrant protection protocols. Once you get through that facts section, the legal arguments sections are literally the same every single time. [Part 3: Under Trump, Texas foot soldiers became federal judges, securing a conservative stronghold in the courts] This strategy worked in front of hand-picked, Trump-appointed judges like Matthew Kacsmaryk, Mateers former colleague at First Liberty, and on the newly super-conservative 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. But over the last few years, Texas has lost several high-profile cases at the U.S. Supreme Court. This past term, Texas went 0-4 in cases in which it was a party. In rejecting one of Texas immigration challenges, the court seemed to repudiate Texas whole strategy. Justice Brett M. Kavanaugh called it an extraordinarily unusual lawsuit, and Justice Neil Gorsuch chastised Texas for attempting government by lawsuit. After months of interim leaders, and years of tumult, the Texas attorney general is returning to the Texas Office of the Attorney General, alongside several senior attorneys who took leaves of absence to defend him. Paxton has said his focus will be national continuing to challenge the Biden administration in federal court and, its safe to assume, trying to rebuild the offices stature in the eyes of the national conservative legal movement. But inside Texas, theres a war being waged, in his name, for the future of the Republican Party. Whether hell be able to resist entering the fray, and dragging the Office of the Attorney General with him, remains to be seen. He returns to the office Monday. Webster, for one, is glad to have his boss back. Congratulations Attorney General Paxton on his resounding win in the unjust and unfounded impeachment brought against him! he wrote in an all-staff email obtained by the Houston Chronicle. I ask that all of you join me in welcoming back our leader, the best Attorney General in the United States. Disclosure: The State Bar of Texas have been financial supporters of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here. The Texas Tribune Festival is almost here! Join us Sept. 21-23 in downtown Austin for 125+ unforgettable conversations featuring nearly 300 speakers. Be there for Texas biggest politics and policy event when you buy your tickets today. MUNCIE, Ind. Seven years of anger, frustration and heartache boiled over Monday when a Muncie man was sentenced to 65 years in prison for killing his wife. A Delaware Circuit Court 2 jury in August found Kenneth Wayne Herbert, 54, guilty of murder in the June 2016 beating death of 48-year-old Kimberley Herbert. Kenneth Herbert Seconds after Judge Kimberly Dowling on Monday had imposed the maximum sentence of 65 years on Herbert, some in the courtroom gallery several of them friends or family members of the victim loudly and in some cases profanely let the defendant know what they thought of him. "I hope you rot in ------- hell!" one man shouted. Deputy Prosecutor Joe Orick said he heard Herbert tell his antagonists, "I'll be back." More: Muncie man found guilty of murder in wife's 2016 death Judge Dowling ordered the courtroom cleared. The handcuffed Herbert was quickly led out of the courtroom to be returned to the Delaware County jail, where he will await transfer to a state prison. Herbert's ability to one day "be back" in Muncie would likely require that his murder conviction or sentence be overturned on appeal. His defense attorney, Lisa Manning of Plainfield, told the judge as a result of his age, Herbert would "probably be incarcerated for the remainder of his life." Manning asked the judge to consider her client had grown up in an abusive household and been a drug abuser since his early teens. Orick had recommended the maximum 65-year sentence, calling Herbert "the very reason the state of Indiana builds prisons." The deputy prosecutor said Herbert was a "sadistic violent predator" who subjected his wife to a "horrible vicious beating" that led to her death. Judge Dowling said Herbert's conviction "cries out for the maximum sentence," noting he had left his mortally wounded victim unattended at their home for an extended period before contacting a friend to help deliver her to IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital. Kimberley Herbert was pronounced dead soon after arrival at the hospital. An autopsy determined she had suffered "multiple traumatic blunt force trauma injuries" to her "head, neck, torso and extremities." She also had broken ribs and a lacerated liver. The judge also said Kenneth Herbert had shown no remorse, and apparently boasted about his physical abuse of his spouse. Herbert was not charged with murder until March 2021, after John Branson, an investigator with the Delaware County Sheriff's Department, had reopened the case. Orick on Monday presented the testimony of four witnesses Kimberley Herbert's daughter and granddaughter, who both urged the judge to impose a maximum sentence, and two of the defendant's former wives. Both of those women said Kenneth Herbert has also physically abused them during their marriages and said he should spend the rest of his life behind bars. One of the former wives said Herbert should "never see the light of day again." "He's a predator," she added. Douglas Walker is a news reporter at The Star Press. Contact him at 765-213-5851 or at dwalker@muncie.gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Muncie Star Press: Muncie man convicted of killing wife draws maximum term, angry remarks A northwest Ohio man was killed after he was hit by a train in a railyard near Toledo Sunday. >>It is trash; Tipp City Chief of Police speaks on recent white supremacist flyers Carman Anderson, 56, of Waterville was struck by a train traveling south on an active rail track in Walbridge around 3:30 a.m., according to CBS affiliate WTOL-TV in Toledo. Walbridge is located about 7 miles south of Toledo. Anderson was believed to have been pinned between rail cars and died at the scene, a National Transportation Safety Board spokesperson told the station. Anderson was pronounced dead at the scene, according to OSHP. The Transportation Communication Union, the union representing workers at the railyard, said Andersons death was caused by a remote-controlled train. If the investigation confirms the report, his death marks the third death involving remote-controlled trains at the same facility, the union spokesperson said. >>Flying taxis to be built in the Miami Valley; Heres why the factorys CEO chose Dayton Enough is enough. A full-scale review of the use and practices around remote-control locomotives is long overdue. CSX - and every railroad - must evaluate their use of these supposed technological advancements to ensure they are actually making our members safer, and not merely replacing people to continue lining the pockets of Wall Street, These tragedies are very painful reminders that the work our members perform is dangerous and unforgiving. My deepest condolences go out to the family and coworkers of Brother Anderson, and our union stands ready to assist in any way possible, said TCU National President Artie Maratea. Our understanding is that this fatality was involving a remote-control locomotive. If so, this would mark the third Carman fatality involving remote-control locomotives. Railroading is a dangerous environment, and theres long been a culture of watching out for each other. But when headcounts have been cut to the bone, whos left to watch your back? The statement continues, Enough is enough. A full-scale review of the use and practices around remote-control locomotives is long overdue. CSX - and every railroad - must evaluate their use of these supposed technological advancements to ensure they are actually making our members safer, and not merely replacing people to continue lining the pockets of Wall Street, Maratea continued. BRC members show up to work every day, work safely and expect to be able to return home to their families at the end of the day, " said BRC General President Don Grissom. This tragic loss reminds us that we must continue the fight to ensure that worker safety is a top priority. Myself and the entire BRC offer our deepest condolences to the family of Brother Anderson. Statement from TCU President Artie Maratea The union said they are assisting CSX and authorities with the investigation. Looking for a job, but need to find one that actually pays enough? Finding a job to support you and your family without a long list of requirements can be difficult. The Bellingham Herald has searched the job website Indeed and local Craigslist listings to find positions with minimal requirements that are available as of Monday, Sept. 18, that advertise wages at or above living wages: Server at Boomers Drive-In $25 per hour Full time No requirements listed Entry level fabricator at Signs Plus Inc. $19 - $24 per hour Full time No experience or requirements listed Production technician at Janicki Industries $18 - $45 per hour Full time No requirements listed Live crab handler at One Ocean Sea Products, Inc $18 - $22 per hour Full time Must be at least 18 years old with a clean drivers record and the ability to lift 70 pounds. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology calculated the living wage by county by evaluating typical expenses to find how much an individual must make hourly to support themselves, or multiple children or dependents in a full-time job. MIT records living wages for individuals, couples and families that vary based on the number of dependents, number of children and the number of adults who are working: Whatcom Countys living wage for an individual with no dependents is $17.47 per hour, working full time. For a household with two adults, no children, and only one individual working, a living wage in Whatcom County is $27.62 per hour. For a household with two adults, no children and both adults working, the living wage is $13.81 per hour. For a household with two adults, one child, and only one adult working, the living wage is $34.53 per hour. If this household had two children the living wage would be $39.51 an hour. For a household with two adults and two children and both adults working, the living wage is $25.98 per hour. If the family had three children, both individuals would need to make $32.10 per hour. As Washington states minimum wage is $15.74 per hour, this amount is not considered a living wage in Whatcom County unless you have multiple adults working in a household with no dependents. A social media threat led to the cancellation of school for about 1,400 students Monday at the 21st Century Charter Schools two locations in Gary. We had a threat and we took it seriously enough to close schools, said Kevin Teasley, founder and president of the Greater Education Opportunities Foundation (GEO) that operates the schools. Advertisement Teasley said the threat said: 21st century Jr high will get shot up tmr. He said staffers, students and families saw the post and many teachers called off school. There wasnt enough staff to secure the building so officials cancelled school and contacted Gary police who are investigating. Advertisement Teasley said he was informed of the threat by a school security guard who saw the post. On Tuesday when school resumes, Teasley said the school will be under police surveillance. He said all the schools have locked doors and metal detectors. You cant get in without being buzzed in, he said. 21st Centurys middle and high school is at 1440 E. 35th Ave. and the elementary is at 556 Washington St. The school asked students and families to alert officials if they have any information about the threat. Carole Carlson is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune. Government should not reward those who overcharge for medical care. But lowering payments to rural Oklahoma hospitals could push them over the cliff. All of Oklahoma benefits from good news about Oklahoma Citys economy, such as in Steve Lackmeyers recent article (Building Boom: Billions being spent on construction in OKC). This metro-area growth creates opportunities statewide. Yet, rural Oklahomans still face historic challenges, especially with health care, and they comprise about a third of residents in the state. With the estimated state population now above 4 million, this means the well-being of about 1.3 million people depends on rural providers. A recent study concluded that 37 of the 78 rural hospitals in Oklahoma are at risk of closing due to financial problems, with 24 at immediate risk. They would join nine that have closed since 2005. Unfortunately, some proposals to control federal health spending would make their finances worse. A major offender is so-called site-neutral policies being pushed for Medicaid (SoonerCare) and Medicare, which would disproportionately impact those living outside the urban/suburban footprints. Those are a lopsided remedy for a legitimate problem in the national budget. Health care is 29% of federal spending and rising. Latest official figures (for 2021) show combined annual Medicaid and Medicare spending of $1.635 trillion (growing 8%-9% a year) compared with $1.645 trillion paid by private insurance and individuals. The cost to taxpayers constantly sparks proposals to manage care, or to impose government price controls almost everything except to remove the red tape that strangles providers. These regulations drive up costs for all patients. Medical bills also climb because government pays only 84% to 85% of the cost to treat Medicaid and Medicare patients, so that hospitals are underpaid over $100 billion a year for treating them, according to the American Hospital Association. Costs are shifted by charging other patients more to make up the difference. Sadly, todays fad in Washington is to address this with more red tape. Making Medicaid and Medicare payments site-neutral sounds deceptively simple and good. The concept is that federal programs would reimburse an identical amount for each medical service regardless of where the service is provided. The rub is that rural hospitals and clinics cannot achieve the same economy-of-scale as those which serve a larger number of patients, are not staffed 24/7, and do not provide overnight beds for in-patients. Instead, rural facilities are expected to provide multiple types of care, ranging from out-patients, emergencies, in-patient and routine non-acute care. Providing broader services makes it impossible to keep costs as low as specialty clinics in larger communities. Despite the superficial appeal of site-neutral payments, it is comparing apples with pomegranates to expect a rural center to operate with the same overhead as a more-focused clinic. Lowering the payments to rural Oklahoma hospitals could push their strained budgets right over the cliff. Who is pushing site-neutral concepts? In part, it is groups rightly worried about the massive federal deficit and the immense government spending on health care. But others are the advocates of single-payer healthcare, where government takes over everything, as in Great Britain, Canada, Sweden and other countries. Many of them believe that crashing private medicine will drive the system into the arms of full government control. Its no surprise that a chief sponsor of site-neutrality legislation is Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont). Government payments of course should not reward anyone who overcharges for medical care. But neither should rural hospitals be expected to survive if they are punished for providing the broad-based care that their communities need. As proposed, site-neutrality needs refining. One Oklahoma congressman, Kevin Hern, is in a strong position to help, as a Health Subcommittee member of the House Ways and Means Committee. Congress must beware of such simplistic so-called cure-alls. As H.L. Mencken said, For every complex problem, there is a solution that is simple, neat, and wrong. Ernest Istook Former U.S. Rep. Ernest Istook represented urban and rural areas in Oklahomas 5th Congressional District for 14 years. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Rural hospitals can't survive if punished for care its community needs Josep Borrell , EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, has said that Russia is trampling on the UN Charter with its war against Ukraine. The European Union will once again emphasise its support for Ukraine and call for reform at the General Assembly of the United Nations. Source: Josep Borrell in his blog on the website of the European External Action Service, as reported by Ukrinform Quote: "This week comes indeed at a crucial moment for the world and the multilateral system. With its war of aggression against Ukraine, Russia, a nuclear power and permanent member of the UN Security Council, trampled on the UN Charter. Despite repeated calls by the UN General Assembly to comply with its responsibility, Russia is preventing the Security Council from fulfilling its role, not only in Ukraine but also elsewhere, thus threatening the credibility of the whole United Nations system." According to Borrell, in order to restore the unique legitimacy of the UN, it is urgently necessary "to make the Security Council more representative to reflect the changes that have taken place in the world and in particular give Africa a voice." Borrell noted that Russias aggressive war against Ukraine, which came "on the heels" of the COVID-19 pandemic, is directed against the main breadbasket of the world. This war remains the greatest threat to global food security, further deepening the global cost of living crisis. This affects all countries of the world, especially the weakest and poorest. In August 2022, the UN played a crucial role in reducing the severity of the problem by launching the Black Sea Grain Initiative. But last July, Russia decided to abandon this agreement. The EU intends to discuss with UN Secretary General Guterres ways and means of reviving this agreement. "We will again use this years High Level Week to explain our unwavering support for Ukraine and rally countries from every corner of the world to team up with us in defence of the UN charter and refusal of Russias neoimperialism. We cannot go back to a world where might makes right. This would imperil the security of all nations, big and small, particularly of developing and emerging ones," Borrell said. He also said that the EU attaches particular importance to the activities of the UN, especially in a difficult time for the multilateral world system, when rifts and confrontation are widening around the world and global leadership is absent, insufficient or fractured. According to Borrell, we must reverse this ongoing trend. The UN General Assembly High-Level Week will be held on 19-25 September in New York. 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! The EU is preparing to hold a meeting between foreign ministers of the EU member states in the city of Kyiv, likely in early October. Source: Italian information agency ANSA with reference to three different sources, as reported by European Pravda Details: According to ANSA, the next meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council will most likely be held in Kyiv "at the beginning of October". The goal of the meeting, as stated by the sources, will be to continue the "political integration" of Ukraine and to demonstrate the EUs support for Ukraine at this critical stage of Russias full-scale invasion. Brussels also wants to take stock of some important matters, such as the increase of military aid for Ukraine and the further strengthening of sanctions, especially with regard to Russias attempts to evade them in the hi-tech sector. Background: In February 2023, in parallel with the Ukraine-EU summit in Kyiv, a joint offsite meeting between European commissioners and the Ukrainian government was held for the first time in history. 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! Foreign ministers of EU member states may hold their next Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Kyiv, Italian news agency ANSA reported on Sept. 18, citing three independent sources. The agency's sources state that the October meeting's objectives will be promoting "political integration," showcasing EU's support for Ukraine, and addressing crucial matters such as increasing military aid and enhancing sanctions against Russia. Read also: Ukraine expects Brussels to honor grain export agreement FM Kuleba Ukraine's Deputy PM for Euro-Atlantic Integration, Olha Stefanishyna, declared in early September that Ukraine would be ready for EU entry within the next two years. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that Kyiv hopes to initiate EU accession negotiations by the end of 2023. Read also: Ukraine fulfills all seven recommendations of EU given when granted membership candidacy Shmyhal 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. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine By 2030, the European Union may become as dependent on lithium-ion batteries and fuel cells from China as it was on Russian energy before Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine. Source: Reuters with reference to a document prepared for EU leaders for their meeting on Europe's economic security to be held in Spain on 5 October, reported by European Pravda Details: The document says that due to the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources such as solar or wind energy, Europe will need ways to store energy to achieve its goal of zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050. This should lead to a rapid increase in demand for lithium-ion batteries, fuel cells and electrolysers, which is expected to increase by 10-30 times in the coming years. Quote: "If no decisive measures are taken, by 2030 the European energy ecosystem may become dependent on China, which will have a different nature, but will be as serious as the dependence on Russia before the full-scale invasion of Ukraine." More details: However, lithium-ion batteries and fuel cells were not the only area of vulnerability for the EU, the document says, as a similar scenario could unfold in the digital technology space. "Forecasts show that the demand for digital devices such as sensors, drones, data servers, storage equipment and data networks will increase dramatically this decade," the report says. The document notes that by 2030, this dependence could seriously hinder the productivity gains that European industry and services urgently need, as well as prevent the modernisation of agricultural systems needed to address climate change. Background: The German government is considering a ban on the use of Chinese components in critical elements of mobile networks. The European Commission is calling on member states to quickly limit the use of equipment for 5G networks from Chinese companies Huawei and ZTE and wants to stop cooperation with operators that use their equipment. There have also been proposals to ban European businesses from manufacturing critical modern technologies such as supercomputers, artificial intelligence and advanced chips in China and similar countries. 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! (Bloomberg) -- Several European Union countries expressed reservations about a Spanish proposal to add Catalan to the list of the blocs official languages, potentially complicating Pedro Sanchezs attempt to court domestic separatist parties in his bid to win another term as Spanish prime minister. Most Read from Bloomberg More than half of EU governments including France, Germany and Sweden have said that they need to examine the legal and political consequences of the proposal, the additional costs the move would incur and the administrative burden, according to people familiar with the discussions. The concerns were expressed in a closed-door meeting of EU ambassadors Friday. Adding a language requires support from all 27 member states, with Croatian being the last addition in 2013. EU European affairs ministers will discuss the Spanish proposal in Brussels later Tuesday. The request is part of Sanchezs efforts to meet the demands of the pro-independence party Junts per Catalunya, led by Carles Puigdemont , and secure enough votes for getting a majority in parliament after an inconclusive July election. Failure to deliver would significantly weaken Sanchezs position and would require him to present additional guarantees for any future promises and win the support of pro-independence forces, people familiar with the discussion said. Puigdemont, who fled to Belgium after the illegal independence referendum held in Catalonia in October 2017, has also called for an amnesty for pro-independence supporters, including himself, as a precondition for his backing. Madrid had been hoping for an agreement at the ministerial meeting due Tuesday. But around 10 capitals, including Paris, Berlin and Helsinki, considered any decision at the gathering would be premature and requested a legal opinion, according to the people who asked not to be named on confidential talks. Cover Costs To meet some of the concerns raised by member states, Spain told EU envoys that it would be ready to cover costs resulting from the proposal. The Spanish government formally requested last month the inclusion of Catalan, Basque and Galician in the language regime of the EU. Spain argued that these regional languages already have constitutional status in Spain and citizens can already use them in all EU institutions, except for the European Parliament, although Madrid recently requested their use in the EU chamber. Following Spains July election, Alberto Nunez Feijoo, leader of the conservative Peoples Party, was tasked by King Felipe VI to try to cobble together an administration. Feijoo will face a so-called investiture vote on Sept. 26 and 27 to see if he has the support of parliament. If he loses, as is widely expected, Sanchez would then try to form a government in the following weeks. --With assistance from Rodrigo Orihuela and Kevin Whitelaw. (Updates timing in the third paragraph. An earlier version corrected the date of the election.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. FILE PHOTO: Internally displaced Somali children gather outside their makeshift shelters at the Ladan camp in Dollow FILE PHOTO: Internally displaced Somali children gather outside their makeshift shelters at the Ladan camp in Dollow By Gabriela Baczynska, Michelle Nichols, Aaron Ross and Emma Farge UNITED NATIONS/NAIROBI/GENEVA (Reuters) -The European Union executive has temporarily suspended funding for the World Food Programme (WFP) in Somalia, two senior EU officials told Reuters on Monday, after a U.N. investigation found widespread theft and misuse of aid meant to avert famine. The European Commission gave more than $7 million in aid to the WFP's operations in Somalia last year, a fraction of the donations of more than $1 billion it received, U.N. data shows. EU member states gave much more money on a bilateral basis. It was not immediately clear whether any would also suspend aid. Balazs Ujvari, a spokesman for the European Commission, neither confirmed nor denied specifically a temporary suspension but said: "So far, the EU has not been informed by its U.N. partners of a financial impact on EU-funded projects. "Nevertheless, we will continue to monitor the situation and abide by our zero-tolerance approach to fraud, corruption or misconduct." The WFP did not immediately respond to requests for comment. One senior EU official said the decision was taken after the U.N. investigation concluded that landowners, local authorities, members of the security forces and humanitarian workers were all involved in stealing aid intended for vulnerable people. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the aid would be restored after the WFP met additional conditions, such as vetting of partners on the ground in Somalia. The second senior EU official confirmed that. A third source, also an EU official, said the Commission was "cooperating actively with WFP to resolve systemic defects" but said no aid was suspended at this stage. The July 7 report, marked "strictly confidential," was commissioned by U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, according to a copy reviewed by Reuters. Its contents were first published on Monday by Devex, a media outlet focused on international development. It cited internally displaced persons (IDPs) as saying they were coerced into paying up to half of the cash assistance they received to people in positions of power in the face of threats of eviction, arrest or de-registration from beneficiary lists. Three months ago the WFP and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) suspended food aid to neighboring Ethiopia in response to the widespread diversion of donations. The European Commission contributes 10 million euros ($10.69 million) to Somalia and Ethiopia via the WFP, with the suspension covering part of that, according to one of the senior EU officials. The United States is by far Somalia's biggest humanitarian donor. Last year, it contributed more than half of the $2.2 billion of funding that went to the humanitarian response there. USAID spokesperson Jessica Jennings said in a statement the United States was working to understand the extent of the diversion and was "already taking steps to protect beneficiaries and ensure taxpayer money is used to benefit vulnerable persons in Somalia, as intended." An official of the agency, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the situations in Ethiopia and Somalia were different and USAID was not planning to pause food assistance in the latter. A U.S. Congressional source said the decision to suspend aid in Ethiopia was, in part, related to the uniquely hands-on role of the federal government there in distributing food assistance, which has long made donors uneasy. "The widespread theft of food assistance in Ethiopia was abhorrent, but was also an opportunity to change the way it is provided," said the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity. The Somali Disaster Management Office, which coordinates the government's humanitarian response, said in a statement on Monday that Somali authorities were committed to investigating the U.N. report's findings, while adding that current aid delivery systems operate "outside of the government channels". Guterres' office did not immediately respond to requests for comment. 'WIDESPREAD AND SYSTEMIC' Donors boosted funding to Somalia last year as humanitarian officials warned of a looming famine due to the Horn of Africa's worst drought in decades. Famine was averted, official data shows, but as many as 43,000 people, half of them children younger than five, died last year as a result of the drought, researchers estimate. The U.N. report did not attempt to quantify the amount of aid diverted but said its findings "suggest that post-delivery aid diversion in Somalia is widespread and systemic". Investigators found aid diversion at all of the 55 IDP sites in Somalia from which they collected data, the report said. Some 3.8 million people are displaced in Somalia one of the highest rates in the world. Aid distribution has been a problem in Somalia for decades, complicated by weak government institutions, widespread insecurity stemming from an Islamist insurgency and marginalisation of minority clans. Since revelations of aid theft during a 2011 famine, humanitarian agencies have converted most of their assistance to cash-based transfers that some officials have presented as less vulnerable to corruption. The U.N. report was the latest evidence that cash-based systems can be exploited too. It identified a variety of perpetrators, led by so-called "gatekeepers," powerful individuals from dominant local clans. These gatekeepers leverage their influence over access to camp sites and food beneficiary lists to coerce payments from IDPs, the report said. Members of security forces also play a role by intimidating and sometimes arresting those who refuse to pay, while some humanitarian workers collude with gatekeepers to pocket stolen funds, the report said. While famine has been averted for now, the report warned that inadequate humanitarian funding could imperil fragile progress. Aid budgets are under strain globally, with just 36% funded to date of the $2.6 billion the U.N. says is needed this year for Somalia's humanitarian response. ($1=0.9355 euros) (Reporting by Gabriela Baczynska and Michelle Nichols at the United Nations, Aaron Ross in Nairobi, Emma Farge in Geneva; Additional reporting by Daphne Psaledakis and Joe Bavier; Editing by Howard Goller) STUTTGART, Germany An Indra-led consortium of European companies is set to launch work on an electronic-warfare capability for the European Union aimed at protecting friendly aircraft against missile attacks. In a few months, the blocs Responsive Electronic Attack for Cooperative Tasks (REACT) effort will begin its second phase, company officials told Defense News. The consortium, which includes European sensor makers Hensoldt, Elettronica and Saab, was selected in June to receive tens of millions of euros in funds from the European Defence Fund (EDF) for the work. The REACT program is intended to develop a system capable of jamming any signals used for targeting European aircraft while being able to disable adversary electronic-warfare emitters, according to a European Defence Fund fact sheet. As European forces are facing increasingly sophisticated long-range, integrated air defense systems, airborne electronic attack (AEA) capabilities become essential to create safe bubbles around formations of aircraft, said Pablo Gonzalez, director for NATO and European defense and space programs at Indra. Going forward, Indra has progress and lessons from the initiatives first phase to build on, Gonzalez wrote in a Sept. 7 email to Defense News. The company and its consortium was awarded a grant for REACT I in 2019 under the EDFs predecessor, the European Defence Industrial Development Programme. The project is linked to a similar Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) initiative focused on airborne electronic attack, a connection that translates into extra subsidies from Brussels. Indra is also one of three prime contractors on the trinational Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program, representing Spanish industry as well as serving as lead contractor for the programs sensors portfolio. Indra did not respond to questions regarding any commonality between the work on REACT and its work on FCAS by this articles publication. The FCAS program which also includes France and Germany launched its Phase 1B technological demonstration phase in December 2022, which will go on until 2029 when a prototype demonstrator is expected to see the light of day. Indra is slated to receive 600 million ($640 million) for its work during Phase 1B, the company previously shared. During REACT I, the industry partners developed operational scenarios and studied the potential threats a new AEA system may need to face in the next 15-20 years, said Raul Pajarin, director of airborne platforms systems at Indra. Those efforts generated an architecture, specification and preliminary design of the AEA capabilities, he told Defense News. Indra expects that REACT II will officially start at the end of 2023, once the grant agreement is signed with the European Commission, per Pajarin. The main milestone to achieve is the demonstration of the AEA capabilities by way of testing of different prototypes generated during the project. In the meantime, the industrial consortium is planning all the activities and resources needed for the future execution of the project, he said. In addition to covering the swath of capabilities set out in the EDF report, the consortium hopes to develop a modular, reconfigurable architecture-based system, Pajarin noted. During REACT II, the plan is also to consolidate a European-wide definition and digitalization of electronic attack missions, and to set a base scenario for coordinating the missions between different assets and nations, he said. The program is expected to take four years and cost around 69.7 million, including a maximum of 40 million in EU contributions. It will encompass studies, design, prototyping, testing, and qualification of the new capability. The international program management group Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) will manage the program on behalf of the participating nations. REACT II is financed through the European Defence Fund along with the ministries of defense of Spain, France, Germany, Italy, Sweden and Poland, Gonzalez said. Bulgaria, Estonia, Finland, France, Lithuania, the Netherlands, and Poland are also providing industrial participation and support. The following companies are participating in the REACT II project: From Spain: Indra, the Technical University of Madrid, AXTER Aerospace, Spika Tech, and Gaerum Engineering; from Italy: Elettronica, the National Laboratory of Radar and Surveillance Systems and Systems and Energy Technologies (SENTECH); from Germany: Hensoldt; from Sweden: Saab and the KTH Royal Institute of Technology; from France: Thales; from Poland: the Warsaw University of Technology and XY Sensing; from Bulgaria: Bianor Software and IT Services; from the Netherlands: the Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR); from Estonia: Rantelon and CAFA Tech Robotics; from Lithuania: the Baltic Institute of Advanced Technology; and from Finland: DA-Group. EVANSVILLE The man accused of fatally stabbing 23-year-old Kayla Marie Warner will no longer stand trial after he pleaded guilty to felony murder Monday morning. Officers arrested Je'an D'tae Holland, 23, in February 2022 after a lengthy investigation determined he was the last person to see Warner alive. Warner was found dead inside her Vann Park Drive apartment by a family member on Nov. 15, 2021. Holland entered a plea of not guilty immediately after his arrest and maintained his innocence throughout a lengthy pre-trial process. In letters Holland sent to the court, he asked Vanderburgh County Judge Robert Pigman to dismiss all charges he faced and asked to be released from jail. On Monday, just as Holland was set to go to trial, he pleaded guilty as charged to felony murder, obstruction of justice and theft. According to Holland's arrest affidavit, he contacted Evansville Police Department detectives after Warner's killing and admitted he visited her the night of her death. At first, Holland reportedly claimed Warner was alive when he left her apartment, though weeks later, he changed his story and claimed he knew of Warner's death before it was reported to police. Holland checked himself into Brentwood Springs, a mental health and substance abuse treatment center in Newburgh, and into Ascension St. Vincent hospital after Warner's killing and told investigators he did so due to Warner's "murder," his arrest affidavit states. Investigators corroborated Holland's account that he visited Warner's apartment by comparing cell tower location data obtained from both Holland's and Warner's cell service providers. In Holland's arrest affidavit, investigators did not outline a potential motive for Warner's killing. Holland was previously scheduled to go before a jury in July, though the trial was called off after Holland withdrew a request to represent himself. According to court records, Pigman is scheduled to sentence Holland on Oct. 13. Houston Harwood can be contacted at houston.harwood@courierpress.com This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Evansville man pleads guilty to murder just as trial set to begin A former councilman for the city of Compton has been arrested on a federal grand jury indictment accusing him and a consulting client of paying $70,000 in bribes to another politician in exchange for for marijuana permits, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Isaac Jacob Galvan, 36, was arrested Monday at his Compton home on a 10-count indictment filed earlier this month. Also arrested as part of the bribery scheme was Yichang Bai, 50, of Arcadia, the owner and operator of W&F International Corp., a Diamond Bar-based import-export business. Galvan and Bai are charged with one count each of conspiracy and bribery, and eight counts of honest services wire fraud, officials said. Galvan allegedly paid the funds to a corrupt member of the Baldwin Park City Council, identified as Ricardo Pacheco, for votes and to support commercial marijuana permits for Bais corporation. Back in 2017, Baldwin Park began allowing the cultivation, manufacture and distribution of marijuana within city limits, officials explained. Around then, Pacheco, 60, apparently began soliciting bribes from businesses seeking marijuana development agreements and related permits, court documents show. In exchange for the payments, Pacheco then agreed to use his position in the Baldwin Park City Council to help companies get the needed permits, including voting in their favor, officials said. Galvan allegedly first paid Pacheco $10,000 in August 2017 to secure his support for a further consulting clients marijuana permit, officials said. After securing W&F as a client, Galvan then allegedly facilitated $70,000 in bribes from Bai to Pacheco. Galvan, who served on the City Council from 2013 until May 2022, allegedly paid the bribes in exchange for Pachecos political support of and promise to deliver Baldwin Parks approval of marijuana permits for W&F, officials explained. Pacheco ultimately voted in favor of W&Fs marijuana permit and later voted in favor of W&Fs bid to relocate. Pacheco, who was Baldwin Parks mayor pro tempore in 2018, resigned from his post on the City Council in 2020. During the scheme, Galvan and Bai allegedly took steps to cover up their bribes to Pacheco by concealing Bai and W&Fs connection to the payments, officials said. As an example, Bai allegedly collected checks from third parties who owed him money and gave Galvan the checks with blank payee lines. Galvan allegedly gave the checks to Pacheco, who then arranged for them to be cashed, either by him or third parties, according to the indictment. Galvan and Bai face a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for the conspiracy count, up to 10 years in federal prison for the bribery count and up to 20 years in federal prison for each honest services wire fraud count, officials said. They are set to be arraigned Monday afternoon. Pacheco pleaded guilty in June 2020 to one count of bribery for accepting tens of thousands of dollars in bribes including $20,000 in cash from a Baldwin Park Police officer working with the FBI in exchange for the council members political support of the Baldwin Park Police Associations contract with the city, officials said. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for next year. This case is yet another example of my offices determination to root out public corruption and backroom deals that corrode our political system. We will continue to pursue politicians who violate their sacred oaths by placing their own desires ahead of their constituents needs, U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada said. City Councilmen hold positions of trust. That trust is broken when these public officials commit crimes like bribery, but when they do IRS Criminal Investigation, and our law enforcement partners will be there to seek justice on behalf of the citizens, said Tyler Hatcher, the criminal investigation special agent in charge of the IRS Los Angeles field office. Galvan has also faced scrutiny for an alleged election-rigging schedule, according to the Los Angeles Times. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Senior CPC official meets president of Angola's National Assembly Xinhua) 10:53, September 18, 2023 LUANDA, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- President of the National Assembly of Angola and member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) Carolina Cerqueira on Friday met with Yin Li, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and secretary of the CPC Beijing Municipal Committee, in Luanda, the capital of Angola. Noting that China and Angola have steadily strengthened their friendship, Yin said Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Angolan counterpart, Joao Lourenco, exchanged congratulatory messages early this year on the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, providing guidance for the development of their strategic partnership. China supports Angola in pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions and is willing to work with Angola to strengthen cooperation and exchanges in various areas, so as to bring benefits to their people, he added. The CPC is willing to take the 35th anniversary of the establishment of relations between the two parties as an opportunity to further deepen strategic communication with the MPLA, promote the exchange of governance experience, and contribute to the development of bilateral relations, Yin said. He also said that the city of Beijing will actively implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state to promote cooperation and exchanges between the two capital cities and inject new vitality into China-Angola cooperation. For her part, Cerqueira said that Angola considers China an important strategic partner, appreciates China's support for national independence and development in Angola, and admires China's historic achievements. She said that Angola is willing to further deepen cooperation and exchanges in various fields between the two parties and two countries to promote the continuous development of the strategic partnership between Angola and China. At the invitation of the MPLA, a CPC delegation led by Yin visited Angola on Sept. 15-17. (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun) Bingo is not only fun hobby where you can make friends and win money, but the proceeds can helps local charities. The American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA) Bingo Hall has been in Hobart since 1992, run solely by volunteers, with the proceeds going to various charities. Advertisement We have several volunteers who have been with us for 20 years, said Leon Stath, AHEPAs business manager. I started doing the charity casino nights and then got more involved in the fundraising aspect, said Stath. Advertisement In 31 years, we have raised a little over $2 million for charity, said Stath, noting some of their local charities as Christian Haven, Meals on Wheels, Ross Township Food Pantry, NWI Parkinsons, Inc., Sojourner Truth House, and Saint Monica & Luke Homeless Shelter. The AHEPA is the oldest and largest Greek heritage grassroots membership organization based in the United States. Their mission is to promote Hellenism, education philanthropy, civic responsibility and family, and individual excellence. Membership is open to anyone who believes in the mission of the organization, regardless of heritage, according to the groups website, ahepa.org. With chapters in every major metropolitan city, as well as covering many rural areas, AHEPA is a leading voice of the Greek American community within the local, state, federal and diplomatic cores of government. AHEPA is most proud of their humanitarian activities, including financial support of the restoration of the Statue of Liberty at Ellis Island, the website notes. Our chapter members want to keep the charity gaming going as long as possible, said Stath. Most of our members are getting older, hopefully we can get some more younger members to continue. AHEPA Lodge #78 has bingo at their Hobart Hall three times a week, with bonus days and special games for early birds. Most nights, bingo players can find caller Patti Rassbach at the front of the room. I called bingo in East Chicago for 21 years and Ive been here for three, said Rassbach, noting that some of the people in the room she knows from different bingo games across Northwest Indiana. Our demographic is typically retired women over age 55, although all ages are here and are welcome, said Stath, most players are from Hobart, Portage, Lake Station and Gary. Shelley George, 70, of South Haven, has been playing bingo with AHEPA for three years. Im here every day they are open, especially if Im on a roll. Advertisement Shelley George of South Haven gets her bingo cards, supplies and good luck charms ready at the AHEPA Lodge 78 in Hobart. (Deena Lawley-Dixon/Post-Tribune) Bingo is a great way to keep my mind going, said George, who is a former server. You can come here, you are able to relax, meet people, make friends and sometimes win money. Bingo players are known for having good luck charms and superstitions. Oh, I have my special bag and my good luck charms, and I have been on a roll the last month, said George, who sits in the same spot when she plays. Usually I use one color dabber and use different colors on different pages. I would tell someone who might be nervous about playing for the first time to come out and try it, said George. Everyone is nice here, they treat people nice, and its fun. For more information, visit AHEPA Bingo 78s Facebook page, or email ahepa@verizon.net. Deena Lawley-Dixon is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune. A woman who spazzed out on a Black postal worker in a suburb of St. Louis, saying the worker was not equal to her, has had a history of wild behavior, according to reports. Former landlords of the woman who went viral for her racist rant in front of a Kirkwood, Missouri, post office told the Riverfront Times that there were signs that she was mentally unstable while the woman rented from them. The unidentified woman ranted at a Black postal worker in Missouri. Court records show some of her landlords dragged her into court for not paying rent, the outlet reported. One, who asked the Times not to use his name, said he lost approximately $7,000 because, in addition to her not paying rent, she also damaged his apartment by putting holes in the walls and floors. Related: Damaged Everybody: Judge Sends East Cleveland Cops to Prison for Stealing $14K from Residents During Traffic Stops, Including from Man Paying for His Mothers Funeral Expenses The John Doe is not the only landlord who had an issue with the Kirkwood woman. One said she called the police more than 40 times during the year she lived on his property. In 2017, Ruth Broome rented to the woman, according to the Times. She said back then, the woman called the police on her, too. The woman believed that Broome wanted to steal her reading glasses. She also seemed to have an obsession with the Middle East. She can appear perfectly normal, but then she can start crying to please not send her to Afghanistan. Shell go to Iraq, but not Afghanistan. Just rambling about things that make no sense at all, Broome recalls to the outlet. WATCH THE VIDEO HERE. The woman also told Broome that her son was an a**hole. Broome does not have a son. The woman made national headlines after going viral and flipping out on Dawntayna Smith at the postal location where Smith worked. She wanted Smith to help her get mail out of a P.O. Box located at a different post office. Smith talked to the Times about the encounter. She said told the woman she could not fulfill her request, and the lady left peacefully but returned within minutes and lost her temper, causing a scene. Smith recorded the woman saying, Youre not equal! The postal worker was not the only person with a camera. The woman whipped her cellphone out and started to film Smith. I send it to Trump. Maybe he could do something. And then Obama could sue him, the woman said to Smith. The woman went from talking about Trump and Obama to asking Smith where she got her hair done and later telling Smith that she ruined her life. Smith said it appeared to her that the woman was saying everything that came to her mind. Its almost as if this woman had been waiting to say this, and once she started, everything she had been thinking just came out, Smith told the Times. Smith also said she had to record the outrageous incident because if she didnt, people might have believed the white woman over her. Im working in an area where, if I didnt record it, I would have been the villain, and she would have been the victim, Smith said. By Greg Torode and Yew Lun Tian HONG KONG (Reuters) - The disappearance of Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu highlights the opaque and complex nature of the People's Liberation Army (PLA), diplomats and analysts say. Reuters reported on Friday that Li is under investigation over the corrupt procurement of military equipment during his previous role. Eight other senior officials are also being investigated. His fate has not been officially explained. HOW POWERFUL WAS LI SHANGFU WITHIN THE PLA SYSTEM? In the Chinese system, the Minister of National Defence is seen as significantly less powerful than the U.S. defence secretary and many international equivalents. The position is essentially a diplomatic and ceremonial role without a direct command function. Even so, Li is among the six military officials under Commander-in-Chief and President Xi Jinping on the core Central Military Commission (CMC) and is one of five State Councillors, a post outranking a regular cabinet minister. An aerospace engineer who worked in China's satellite program, Li was seen as technocrat who helped implement Xi's modernisation vision for the PLA, military attaches and analysts say. HOW DOES THE CHINESE MILITARY SYSTEM OPERATE? The PLA is the armed wing of the ruling Communist Party and, according the Pentagon's annual report on China's military, "does not directly serve the state but is rather under the direct control of the party". As Li rose through his career to this point, he would have been vetted to ensure he was absolutely loyal to the party and to Xi. The PLA still operates an active cadre of political commissars who flank the command chain, tasked with ensuring loyalty, unity and morale. The commissar system does not have clear equivalents outside traditional Communist militaries. The CMC, meanwhile, is the party's highest-level decision-making body on military matters. "Since becoming CMC Chairman, Xi Jinping has implemented multiple reforms reducing PLA autonomy and greatly strengthening Party control over the military," notes the Pentagon report, which was released in November 2022. That adds an extra layer of opacity beyond routine military secrecy, according to foreign defence attaches who scrutinise the PLA. DO THE SYSTEMIC DIFFERENCES MATTER? For sure. The PLA is already the world's largest fighting force and growing more capable and modernised. As it absorbs new weapons, its system is changing too, with the creation in recent years of new unified regional commands and a Strategic Support Force to cover its space and cyber warfare capabilities - a body Li was deputy commander of in 2016. As the PLA's power and reach expands, foreign militaries are eager to learn more about how it functions and the strategic intentions of its leadership - efforts that underpin military-to-military to diplomacy. The disappearance of Li has raised concerns among some diplomats and analysts that Chinese military outreach is being trumped by an internal security clampdown. U.S. defence chiefs are eager to restore routine communications with their Chinese counterparts amid regional tensions. Li, who was sanctioned by the U.S. in 2018 over the purchase of Russian weapons, shunned formal discussions with U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin in Singapore in June. After weekend talks between White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Malta, U.S. officials said they noted "limited" signs that the communications chill could ease. Even if China announces a new defence minister and allows them to meet Austin, some analysts say a more senior figure, such as CMC vice-chairman and close Xi ally Zhang Youxia, would be a figure on a more equal footing. Given the upheaval, an international security conference Li was due to host in October is now being closely watched. WHAT'S THE NEXT THING TO WATCH FOR? If Li does not appear at the upcoming Xiangshan Forum, Beijing's biggest defence diplomacy outreach event, it could mean that he is still being held for investigation. Diplomats say China is set to hold the forum in the latter half of next month, but has not sent invitations - late by China's standards. Billed as Beijing's version of the Shangri La Dialogue, the Xiangshan Forum is a high-level conference through which China tries to shape global discussions on defence and security issues. When the forum was last held in-person in 2019, more than 530 defence and military officials and scholars attended, including defence ministers from 23 countries. The Chinese defence minister would typically give the keynote speech at the forum and meet with delegations. (Reporting By Greg Torode and Yew Lun Tian. Editing by Gerry Doyle) By Parisa Hafezi (Reuters) -Iran and the U.S. were to swap five detainees each on Monday after Qatar mediated a deal between the arch foes that also unfroze $6 billion of Tehran's funds. HOW IS THE EXCHANGE HAPPENING? Implementation of the deal was triggered when Qatar confirmed that the funds had been transferred to bank accounts in Doha, a source briefed on details of the matter told Reuters. Under the deal, the five Americans with dual nationality are expected to leave Tehran for Qatar's capital Doha and then fly to the United States. In return, five Iranians held in the U.S. will be released. The Iranian Foreign ministry spokesperson said on Monday two of the Iranians being released would return to Iran while two would stay in the U.S. at their request. One detainee would join his family in a third country. The transfer of Iran's funds has drawn Republican criticism that President Joe Biden, a Democrat, is in effect paying ransom for U.S. citizens. The White House has defended the deal. An important unanswered question is whether the deal may lead to future agreements in disputes that range from Iran's nuclear standoff with the U.S. to Tehran's influence across the Middle East, including Hezbollah, its heavily armed proxy in Lebanon on Israel's border. HOW WAS THE DEAL NEGOTIATED? The agreement was the culmination of months of diplomatic contacts, secret talks and legal manoeuvring, with Qatar at the heart of negotiations, sources and officials familiar with the discussions told Reuters. Doha hosted at least eight rounds of clandestine indirect meetings between Tehran and Washington since March 2022. The earlier rounds were devoted chiefly to Tehran's nuclear dispute with Washington, but over time the focus shifted to prisoners as the negotiators realised that nuclear talks would lead nowhere due to their complexity. The first public glimpse of the deal came on Aug. 10 when Iran allowed four detained U.S. citizens to move into house arrest from Tehran's Evin prison. A fifth was already confined at home. A month later, Washington waived sanctions to allow the transfer of Iran's funds to banks in Qatar, which will have a monitoring role to ensure Iran's clerical rulers spend the funds on non-sanctioned goods. WHO ARE THE PRISONERS? The detained Iranian Americans who will be allowed to leave Iran include businessmen Siamak Namazi, 51, and Emad Shargi, 59, as well as environmentalist Morad Tahbaz, 67, who also has British nationality. The fourth and fifth prisoners have not been identified. The five Iranians to be released by the U.S. are Mehrdad Moin-Ansari, Kambiz Attar-Kashani, Reza Sarhangpour-Kafrani, Amin Hassanzadeh and Kaveh Afrasiabi, according to Iran's mission to the United Nations. They were held in the U.S. mainly for "breaching the U.S. sanctions on Iran". WHY WERE IRAN'S FUNDS FROZEN IN SOUTH KOREA? In 2018, then U.S. President Donald Trump ditched Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with six world powers. He also reimposed harsh U.S. sanctions designed to choke off Iran's oil exports as part of a "maximum pressure" campaign on the Islamic Republic. Seoul, normally one of Irans largest oil customers, received a waiver in 2018 from the United States to continue purchases of Iranian oil for several months. However, after Washington placed a total ban on Irans oil exports and sanctions on its banking sector in 2019, Iranian revenues of $7 billion were blocked in Seoul. Tehran has lost nearly $1 billion of its initially deposited assets in Seoul due to the depreciation of the South Korean currency against the U.S. dollar, Iranian authorities have said. WILL IRAN NORMALISE TIES WITH U.S.? Hostility to the U.S. has always been a rallying point for Iran's clerical establishment, despite political isolation and sanctions-related economic hardship since Washington severed ties with Tehran shortly after the 1979 Islamic revolution. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei could tolerate a limited thaw with the "Great Satan" amid growing public anger over severe economic challenges, but normalisation of ties with Washington would mean crossing the Islamic revolution's red line, Iranian insiders have said. The clerical leadership fears that normalised relations with Washington could weaken the legitimacy of the Islamic Republic and its influence in the region as well as harming the authority of Khamenei domestically, they said. (Writing by Parisa Hafezi, Editing by William Maclean) A strange situation is unfolding in South Carolina. An F-35B pilot ejected from their aircraft today around 2:00 PM local time in an area north of Joint-Base Charleston. The pilot landed under a parachute in a Charleston neighborhood and is in stable condition, but the advanced stealth fighter they ejected from is nowhere to be found. https://twitter.com/TeamCharleston/status/1703541506915668242?s=20 The F-35B originated from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, a master F-35B base for the USMC. It was part of a two-ship flight, with the other F-35B landing safely at MCAS Beaufort. There is no information on what led up to the ejection. Based on FAA data, the search for the aircraft is underway in the Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion areas, Senior Master Sergeant Heather Stanton from Joint Base Charleston told the press . But here's the kicker: the DoD is saying the F-35B was put on autopilot prior to the ejection. The two lakes are located to the north of Charleston. (Google Maps) While it sounds totally bizarre, fighter aircraft continuing on their way in a 'zombie state' for prolonged periods, and even coming to rest on the ground intact, long after their pilot left the cockpit, is not unheard of. The most famous instance of just such a situation was the "Cornfield Bomber," an F-106 Delta Dart that landed on its belly in one piece after its pilot punched out back in 1970. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3M2XZEYqIpQ A Soviet MiG-23 flew all the way from Poland to Belgium without its pilot after they ejected from the jet shortly after takeoff back in 1988. Another example that has occurred during Navy carrier ops is where aircrew ejected as their jet entered a stall state due to a 'cold cat shot' or engine issues while heavily laden at the start of their mission. The loss of the weight of the crew, seats, and canopy, as well as the shift in the center of gravity, have seen aircraft pull out of an imminent crash with nobody left onboard. As for this incident, even the shorter-ranged F-35B has considerable reach. On autopilot, it could have flown hundreds of miles before crashing, depending on its fuel state. We saw a similar situation with the non-responsive Citation bizjet last June, although the crew and passengers remained onboard that stricken aircraft. F-35B's execute a mass launch at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. (U.S. Marine Corps photo illustration by Staff Sgt. Brittney Vella) The fact that the F-35 disappeared without any reports of a crash points to the likelihood that it went down in a sparsely populated area. If it ran out of fuel, there would not likely be a big fire and no massive fireball for people to spot, nor as loud of a crash. If it went down in the Atlantic, it could make finding it even harder. Also, the jet's configuration and its avionics' operability are an issue. The F-35s wear radar reflectors when on transit flights, as well as on many training missions and some operational ones. The Marine jets often wear missile rails for AIM-9Xs, as well. But if the aircraft was in its full stealthy configuration and had avionics issues, tracking it may have been troublesome. We will keep you updated as this story unfolds. UPDATE: 6:15 AM EST The Washington Post has comment from Joint Base Charleston that the jet's transponder was not working at the time of the incident. They wouldn't give any information on the type of sortie the jet was on at the time of the incident. From the article: "The jets transponder, which usually helps locate the aircraft, was not working for some reason that we havent yet determined, said Jeremy Huggins, a spokesman at Joint Base Charleston. So thats why we put out the public request for help. In an appeal posted to social media, Joint Base Charleston asked the public to contact the base if anyone had information about the aircrafts whereabouts following the mishap on Sunday." ... "He added in a text message late Sunday that teams were still searching for the plane. He declined to specify the nature of the exercise that the pilot was involved in at the time of the incident." We discussed earlier how both of those variables the state of the aircraft's avionics and what kind of mission it is on and its configuration could have impacted the ability to track it. Considering how sensitive so much of that aircraft is and how toxic the materials that make up its structure can be, especially if burned, finding it is of great importance. UPDATE: 7:00 AM EST Joint Base Charleston putting out a request to the public to help find the missing stealth jet has led to surprise in some quarters, but also criticism. Nancy Mace, the U.S. representative for South Carolina's 1st congressional district tweeted: "How in the hell do you lose an F-35? How is there not a tracking device and we're asking the public to what, find a jet and turn it in?" https://twitter.com/NancyMace/status/1703586534220255347?s=20 While we now know the transponder on the jet in question was not working, the incident is, perhaps not surprisingly, fast becoming an internet meme de jour. https://www.twitter.com/AbdNav2K2/status/1703663830759563670?s=20 UPDATE: 1:40 PM EST We may have our first clear indication of at least one direction where the DoD thinks the missing F-35 may have flown. An Air Force Special Operations Command HC-130J combat search and rescue Hercules is flying a search pattern extending from north of Lake Marion up to just over the North Carolina border. Its search is ongoing at this time. The HC-130J and their specialized crews are extremely capable when it comes to this type of mission and the aircraft carries an electro-optical/infrared sensor turret to aid in checking out areas of interest below. (ADSBExchange.com) There is also a state police helicopter that appears to be part of the search: Joint Base Charleston took to Twitter again to state that the search continues and to list some of the entities taking part in the mission, which include the Navy and Civil Air Patrol, as well as law enforcement at many levels. https://twitter.com/TeamCharleston/status/1703818759243206693?s=20 UPDATE: 2:23 PM EST Additional aircraft are searching to the northwest of lakes, these include a Cessna 182 with the Civil Air Patrol and a DoD King Air 200: https://twitter.com/Aviation_Intel/status/1703842696320917714?s=20 UPDATE: 7:00 PM EST The U.S. Marine Corps has now announced a safety stand-down for its entire aviation fleet, after a spate of three Class-A aviation mishaps over the last six weeks. According to a media release from the service, the Acting Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Eric M. Smith, has directed all Marine Corps aviation units to conduct a two-day pause in operations this week to discuss aviation safety matters and best practices. https://www.twitter.com/beverstine/status/1703874036202107116?s=20 The media release further states: "During the safety stand-down, aviation commanders will lead discussions with their Marines focusing on the fundamentals of safe flight operations, ground safety, maintenance, and flight procedures, and maintaining combat readiness. This stand-down is being taken to ensure the service is maintaining operational standardization of combat-ready aircraft with well-prepared pilots and crews." "This pause invests time and energy in reinforcing the Marine aviation communitys established policies, practices, and procedures in the interests of public safety, protecting our Marines and sailors, and ensuring the Marine Corps remains a ready and highly-trained fighting force." https://www.twitter.com/CollinRugg/status/1703863373174358473?s=20 A safety stand-down of this kind is hardly unprecedented , although often they will be restricted to certain aircraft types or models. In fact, while some of the reporting around the stand-down has been sensationalist, the idea of each flying unit in the Marine Corps taking two days in the next week to review best practices is hardly that surprising, given the context. As regards the F-35B incident, in particular, The War Zone reached out to the Joint Program Office, who provided us with the following statement: "From JPO: "There is nothing more important than the health and wellness of the pilot involved. Our team will work with the USMC, industry, and all other stakeholders, to assist in the investigation efforts." The manufacturer of the missing F-35B, Lockheed Martin, also provided The War Zone with the following comment: "We are aware of the mishap involving an F-35B from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort and are thankful the pilot ejected safely. We are supporting the governments investigation." We have ended our updates to this story. Our continuing coverage of this incident can be found here . Contact the editor: Tyler@thedrive.com UPDATE: Joint Base Charleston announced Monday evening that a debris field believed to be the missing F-35 was found two hours northeast of the base. The Marine Corps is pausing its aviation operations for two days as the disappearance of a Marine Corps F-35B jet over South Carolina on Sunday remains unsolved. The Corps Monday statement announcing the standdown cited three recent significant mishaps involving Marine aircraft. During the safety stand down, aviation commanders will lead discussions with their Marines focusing on the fundamentals of safe flight operations, ground safety, maintenance and flight procedures, and maintaining combat readiness, the statement reads. This stand down being taken to ensure the service is maintaining operational standardization of combat-ready aircraft with well-prepared pilots and crews. In August, a Marine pilot was killed after his F/A-18D Hornet crashed in southern California, and three Marines were killed in an MV-22 Osprey crash in Australia days later. In the wake of these mishaps, the acting commandant, Gen. Eric Smith, ordered every unit in the Marine Corps to review its safety practices, and he said the Corps will establish a safety center led by a general officer by summer 2024. The standdown comes in addition to these measures. Where is the F-35? Meanwhile, a Marine F-35B fighter jet is still missing after its pilot parachuted out on Sunday. A pilot flying a Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 aircraft safely ejected from an F-35B on Sunday, a 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing spokesperson said. The pilot, whose name has not been released, landed in a North Charleston neighborhood at around 2 p.m. Sunday, The Associated Press reported. The pilot was transferred to a nearby medical center in stable condition, Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, said Sunday. But just what happened to the jet remains unclear. A day after the disappearance, the search for the stealth aircraft remains underway, with teams employing both ground and air assets, according to the base. Based on the jets last-known position and in coordination with the FAA, we are focusing our attention north of JB Charleston, around Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion, Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, said on X, formerly known as Twitter. Among those involved in the investigation are Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina; 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, based at Cherry Point, North Carolina; Navy Region Southeast; the Federal Aviation Administration; the Civil Air Patrol; and law enforcement across the state, according to the joint base. The joint base has asked the public for help in locating the aircraft, providing even more fodder for ribbing by those startled that an approximately $100 million fighter jet could somehow vanish. How in the hell do you lose an F-35? Rep. Nancy Mace, R-South Carolina, whose district includes Lake Moultrie and part of Lake Marion, tweeted Monday morning. How is there not a tracking device and were asking the public to what, find a jet and turn it in? Mace said on X early that afternoon that she planned to meet with Marine Corps representatives to ask for answers on what happened to the jet. She later tweeted, One of the shortest meetings Ive ever had, bc guess what, no one @usmc sent over to brief me and my staff had any answers. Shocker. When there is an ongoing situation which potentially threatens public safety, the Pentagon has an obligation to keep citizens and their representatives informed, Mace said in a statement to Marine Corps Times on Monday, calling the Marine Corps lack of answers unacceptable. A 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing spokesperson said in a statement to media Monday that the mishap was under investigation, adding, We are unable to provide additional details to preserve the integrity of the investigatory process. If the F-35 did go down in a lake, said retired Air Force Gen. Hawk Carlisle, the first thing a search team would likely do would be to look for debris from the planes impact, or slicks from fuel, oil or hydraulic fluid floating on the surface to try to narrow down the search area. They would look for telltale signs that something catastrophic happened in the lake, said Carlisle, who flew F-15s and was head of Air Combat Command until his 2017 retirement. If the search team spots such signs, Carlisle said, the military likely would bring in sonar or other detection equipment to look for where the F-35 might be submerged. Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, and the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing declined to comment on the status of the fighters transponder, though The Washington Post reported that a base spokesman said the transponder was not working at the time of the crash for an unknown reason. In an emailed statement Monday, the F-35 Joint Program Office didnt address Defense News questions about whether transponders have had problems in the past. The office said that the pilots health and well-being were paramount and that it was working with the Marine Corps, industry and other involved parties to help with the investigation. Carlisle said the unusual circumstances of the mishap and the difficulty finding the fighter raises other questions, such as whether the fighter was on a data link with another aircraft at the time. If the fighter was on a data link transmitting and receiving information, Carlisle said, that could have provided more clues to help track it down. Those are all things that an investigation or safety board is going to look at, Carlisle said. If the jet was on autopilot when its pilot ejected, Carlisle said, it conceivably could have flown for hours and hundreds of miles more, depending on how much gas it had left. A fully fueled F-35B can fly a little more than 1,000 miles. Carlisle also wondered if this jets radar cross section had been augmented to make the F-35 more visible to radar, which the military sometimes does when F-35s are flown stateside for air shows or local training missions. The military sometimes augments the F-35s cross-section during public or semi-public flights so they will look different on a radar from how it would during an actual combat mission, Carlisle said. That way, he said, an adversary such as China wouldnt be able to peek at a planned air show with an F-35 and figure out what it would actually look like at war. If the lost F-35s cross-section had not been augmented to mask its true radar signature and make it more visible, Carlisle said, that might explain why it has been so hard to find. But even discussing ways the military might be able to find this missing F-35 can be fraught, Carlisle said. Youve got to be a little careful about what you talk about, Carlisle said. Because if you have an airplane go down in combat, you dont want the bad guys to know how to find it. (Reuters) -U.S. President Joe Biden , who took office in early 2021, faces little opposition in his bid for the Democratic Party nomination in the 2024 presidential election. With former President Donald Trump the frontrunner in the Republican Party's nominating race, Biden's strong position in the Democratic primary sets up a likely repeat of the 2020 presidential election battle. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. , formerly in the Democratic race, will now be an independent candidate, potentially taking votes away from both Biden and Trump. JOE BIDEN Biden, 80, already the oldest U.S. president ever, will have to convince voters he has the stamina for another four years in office, amid concerns about his age and poor approval ratings. Biden allies say he believes he is the only Democratic candidate who can defeat Trump. In announcing his candidacy, Biden declared it was his job to defend American democracy, and referred to the deadly Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol by Trump supporters. Vice President Kamala Harris is again his running mate. The economy will factor in his reelection campaign. While the U.S. escaped an expected recession and is growing faster than economists expected, inflation hit 40-year highs in 2022 and the cost of food and gas is weighing on voters. Biden has led the response of Western governments to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, persuading allies to sanction Russia and support Kyiv, and his administration is working in the Middle East to prevent a wider war. At home, he has pushed through massive economic stimulus and infrastructure spending packages to boost U.S. industrial output, although he has received little recognition from voters for the latter. Biden's handling of immigration policy has been criticized by Republicans and Democrats as migrant crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border hit record highs during his administration. MARIANNE WILLIAMSON The best-selling author and self-help guru Marianne Williamson, 71, has launched her second, long-shot bid for the White House on a platform of "justice and love." She ran as a Democrat in the 2020 presidential primary but dropped out of the race before any votes had been cast. She launched her latest campaign on March 23 and will be on the ballot in the New Hampshire primary. (Reporting by Costas Pitas; Editing by Jonathan Oatis) DUBAI (Reuters) -The United States and Iran will each free five detainees under an exchange agreement that also involves the transfer of $6 billion unfrozen Iranian assets from South Korea. Following are the U.S. citizens imprisoned in Iran who will be released under the deal: SIAMAK NAMAZI Siamak Namazi, 51, a businessman with dual U.S.-Iranian citizenship, was detained in 2015 by the Revolutionary Guards while visiting his family in Tehran. Months later his ailing father, Baquer, was detained after returning to Iran to visit his jailed son. They were both sentenced in 2016 to 10 years in prison for allegedly spying and cooperating with the U.S. government. A former Iranian provincial governor and former UNICEF official who also has dual citizenship, Baquer Namazi was put under house arrest in 2018 on medical grounds and left Iran in 2022 for medical treatment. EMAD SHARGHI In 2017 Sharghi and his wife moved to Iran from the United States. The Iranian-American businessman, 59, was first arrested in 2018 when working for Saravan Holding, a tech investment company. He was released on bail after eight months and a Revolutionary Court cleared him of spying and security-related charges, but his travel ban remained. In November 2020 he was summoned by another Revolutionary Court which sentenced him to 10 years in jail on charges of espionage. He was not initially imprisoned but Iranian media reported he was arrested as he tried to flee Iran in Jan. 2021. MORAD TAHBAZ An Iranian-American environmentalist, 67, who also holds British citizenship, Tahbaz was detained in 2018. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison in 2019 for "assembly and collusion against Iran's national security" and "contacts with U.S. enemy government for the purpose of spying. The fourth and fifth prisoners were not identified. It is not clear how many U.S. citizens are detained in Iran, since families and the U.S. government often do not wish to publicize the cases in the hope of quietly securing their release. IRANIAN DETAINEES IN THE U.S. The five Iranians held in the United States are Mehrdad Moin-Ansari, Kambiz Attar-Kashani, Reza Sarhangpour-Kafrani, Amin Hassanzadeh and Kaveh Afrasiabi, according to Iranian officials. Iran's foreign ministry said two Iranians freed under the deal would remain in the United States and one of the Iranians will fly to a third country to join his family. Two others will return home. For years, Iran has demanded the release of Iranians detained in the United States. There are over a dozen Iranian prisoners held in the U.S. mainly for "breaching the U.S. sanctions on Iran", one Iranian judiciary source told Reuters. (Writing by Parisa Hafezi; Editing by Samia Nakhoul and William Maclean) By Tim Reid (Reuters) - Seven Republican candidates have qualified to take part in the second 2024 Republican presidential debate on Wednesday in California. Donald Trump will skip the event and give a speech in Detroit to autoworkers. Here are some facts about the event and what to expect: WHEN AND WHERE WILL IT TAKE PLACE? Following on from last month's debate in Wisconsin, the second showdown will take place at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute in Simi Valley, California, about 45 miles (72 km) north of Los Angeles. The Republican National Committee, which organizes the debates, has picked the Fox Business Network to host the event, alongside Univision, the U.S.-based Spanish language TV channel, and Rumble, the online video platform popular with conservatives. The two-hour debate will start at 9 p.m. ET (0100 GMT). FEWER CANDIDATES - AND NO TRUMP AGAIN The qualifying rules for the second debate are more stringent than the first last month, when eight candidates were on stage in Milwaukee. This means longshot former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson failed to make the cut due to poor polling. Former President Donald Trump, the runaway frontrunner in the nominating contest according to opinion polls, has said he will skip the debates, and did not appear at the first one. As he did in August, Trump will hold a rival event at the same time as the debate. He will give a speech in Detroit to autoworkers and other blue-collar workers at 8 p.m. ET. The United Auto Workers (UAW) union on Sept. 14 launched strikes at three U.S. auto plants after failing to reach an agreement over new contracts, the first-ever simultaneous labor action against the Detroit Three automakers. The seven candidates set to be on stage are: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis , former Vice President Mike Pence , former U.N. ambassador and South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, U.S. Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, biotech investor Vivek Ramaswamy , former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum. With one less participant, there will be more time for each candidate to attack each other and make their pitches to voters. It also gives them more opportunity to shine or self-destruct. DESANTIS DESPERATELY NEEDS A BREAKOUT PERFORMANCE DeSantis, who was seen in January as the most likely candidate to topple Trump, has had a difficult year, with sinking poll numbers and two staff shake-ups. Once the clear second-place candidate behind Trump, DeSantis' campaign has floundered as some other candidates closed the gap with him in recent polls. The Florida governor delivered a solid, if not flashy, performance in last month's debate but was frequently overshadowed by Ramaswamy. DeSantis will be looking for some breakout moments this time around to rejuvenate his candidacy. RAMASWAMY WILL GET HIT FROM ALL SIDES With Trump currently crushing his rivals by roughly 40 percentage points in national polls, the Republican nominating contest has become a fight for second place. His rivals hope the former president's four criminal indictments and legal woes will somehow knock him out of the race next year, giving an alternative nominee the chance to emerge. After Ramaswamy's pugnacious performance in the August debate, expect to see more attacks on him and his lack of experience, especially by Haley and Pence, both of whom had strong outings last month. Like DeSantis, Scott also needs a more forceful night after his subdued one last month. The Haley-Ramaswamy-Scott-Pence scramble to overtake DeSantis and become the clear alternative to Trump will likely be a major dynamic. DEFEND TRUMP, ATTACK BIDEN Do not expect to see most candidates - with the exception of Christie - going after Trump for his indictments and the fact he is now the first former president with a mug shot. Many Republican primary voters believe Trump's claim that the indictments are an effort by the Biden administration to thwart his candidacy, and attacking him on the issue would likely be political suicide. With the Republican-controlled House of Representatives launching a formal impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden over alleged links to the business practices of his son Hunter Biden , expect to see a barrage of accusations against the Democratic president, an issue that plays well with the Republican base despite the dearth of evidence unearthed so far. A PLAY FOR HISPANIC VOTERS The inclusion of Univision as a debate host is telling. Republican support among Latinos, an increasingly key voting bloc in some key battleground states, including Arizona and Nevada, has been growing in recent years, while Hispanic support for Biden has been dropping. Expect to see candidates asked about the economy and how they plan to improve the financial prospects for Latino families. (Reporting by Tim Reid in Los Angeles; additional reporting by Costas Pitas; editing by Ross Colvin, Jonathan Oatis and Christian Schmollinger) The family of Kaia Rolle, a Florida child whose handcuffing and arrest at the age of 6 led to national outrage in 2019, filed a lawsuit today against the city of Orlando, the now-fired police officer who handcuffed and arrested her, and his supervisors. The lawsuit, filed in a Florida state circuit court, alleges Rolle was subjected to excessive force, false arrest, and malicious prosecution. At a press conference today in Orlando, Rolle's lawyers and family, as well as civil rights activists, also called on Florida to raise its minimum age of arrest for children. "This happened," Rolle's lawyer, Bobby DiCello, said, holding up a picture of Rolle crying in the back of a police cruiser with her wrists bound behind her. "And it's happening all across America." Rolle's alleged crime was throwing a tantrum and striking three employees at an Orlando-area charter school. Body camera footage of the incident showed former Orlando police officer Dennis Turner and another officer putting zip ties around the small child's wrists and leading her outside to a police car as she cried and begged to be let go. "What are those for?" Rolle, who was in first grade at the time, asks as the officer brings out zip ties. "They're for you," Turner responded. Rolle was charged with misdemeanor battery. The charges were quickly dropped. The national condemnation that poured in after the story went viral led to the officer's firing, and after two years of lobbying from Rolle's family and other advocates, Florida created a minimum age of arrest for children. As Reason has previously reported, in many states, there is no minimum age for when a child can be arrested and charged with a crime, although incidents like Rolle's have led several states to strengthen protections for children in recent years. In 2021, the city of Rochester, New York, released body camera footage of officers pepper-spraying a handcuffed 9-year-old girl. In North Carolina, an investigation by the Raleigh News and Observer revealed that children as young as 6 had been charged with crimes. The story's lead anecdote involved a 6-year-old boy charged with destruction of property for picking a tulip. However, Florida's new minimum age for arrest is 7 years old. Rolle almost immediately aged out of the law named after her. "The law we fought so hard to put in place doesn't even protect her," Rolle's grandmother, Meralyn Kirkland, said at the press conference. Rolle's family and juvenile justice advocates are asking for the minimum age of arrest in Florida to be raised to 14 years old. The post Family of 6-Year-Old Florida Girl Handcuffed at Orlando School Files Lawsuit appeared first on Reason.com. A mama black bear and her cubs got a sweet treat last week: Krispy Kreme doughnuts. A delivery driver left his van open and unattended while he dropped off doughnuts at JBER. The bears ate 20 packs of donut holes and six packs of three-pack chocolate doughnuts. A mama bear and her cubs got a sweet treat after swiping snacks from a Krispy Kreme truck in Alaska last week, according to multiple reports. A Krispy Kreme delivery driver briefly left his van unattended and wide open while he was dropping off a doughnut delivery to an express store on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, a military base in Anchorage. But he didn't realize that was where a mother black bear and her cubs frequently hung out. While he was inside dropping off the doughnuts, the manager of the store on JBER, Shelly Deano, told CNN she heard noises coming from the van and realized what was going on. "I said 'He's in the van,' and then the little cub followed and went inside the van and then they just started eating the doughnuts," Deano told CNN. Deano said they could hear the bears tearing open the packages of doughnuts and, despite efforts to deter them by banging on the van, the bears continued their feast. Eventually, Deano had to call base security, who got the bears out of the van by blasting sirens nearby, according to Alaska's News Source. In the end, "They ate 20 packages of the doughnut holes and then, I believe, six packages of the three-pack chocolate doughnuts," Deano said. Candice Sargeant, who manages the store in Muldoon where the doughnuts were made, told CNN that her team will be more careful about leaving the doors open. "I didn't believe it," Sargeant told CNN. "I was, like, really astonished. There's no way bears are in the back of the van. Then I was like, 'Okay, how do we solve this?'" Sargeant said that after seven years in the business, this bear heist was definitely a first, Alaska's News Source reported. Read the original article on Insider The Old Lake County Courthouse in downtown Crown Point is now the centerpiece of numerous city events and a popular dining and shopping area, but in the 1970s, it was on the verge of being torn down before local citizens like David Katz pitched in to save it. (Anna Ortiz/Post-Tribune) For those who knew him, imagining the Crown Point Square without the Old Lake County Courthouse is like imagining a world without David J. Katz. The Grand Old Lady would not be standing if not for the late 97-year-old Schererville resident and a group of determined citizens, his loved ones said. David Katz died on Aug. 30 and was survived by his wife of 49 years, Mardi Katz, and his son, Ken Alan Katz, his obituary published at Kish Funeral Home said. Advertisement What will he be remembered for? Mardi Katz, of Schererville, said. I just hope the most important thing was that he loved that courthouse. That he spent over 40 years trying save it and work on it. He was on the board for 40 years or more. It was real important to him; That something like that stays. The Grand Old Lady caught his eye when he and his wife moved his working office to 106 West Clark St., with a second-story view of the courthouse. Advertisement When he heard they were gonna tear it down in 1973 and make it a parking lot, he said, You cant tear something like that down, you lose all your history if you tear something like that down, Mardi Katz said. Architect David Katz died Aug. 30 at the age of 97. He and a group of concerned citizens were key to preventing the old Lake County Courthouse from being razed in the 1970s. - Original Credit: Photo courtesy of Mardi Katz (Photo courtesy of Mardi Katz/HANDOUT) Mardi Katz said at the time, the Southlake Mall had just been built, taking shoppers away from the businesses on the square. The merchants in downtown Crown Point were unhappy, they wanted parking, she said. And the county commissioners had allotted $80,000 to tear it down to become a parking lot. She said her husband and Wilbur Heidbreder got together and went to Indianapolis and put the Crown Point icon on the National Register of Historic Places. The growing group of courthouse rescuers then worked to raise money and received several donations after putting an ad in a Chicago newspaper. We got a lot petitions signed by a lot of people in the community, Marion Kellum, of Crown Point, said. It was a symbol of community and is a tremendous historic value, and he was a part of that. Kellum said there were a lot of public meetings and their efforts drew publicity, much to the chagrin of those who wished the courthouse gone. ...We made them feel very uncomfortable and they backed down, Kellum said. Every once and a while I drive up there and look at it. I wonder what would it look like if they got their way and tore it down? Serving on the Lake Court House Foundation board for more than 40 years, David Katz was recognized in 2015 with the Sagamore of the Wabash award by former Indiana Governor Mike Pence. Advertisement The Courthouse is the most iconic building in Crown Point and the heart of our downtown. David understood that and was instrumental in saving our beloved courthouse, Crown Point Mayor Pete Land said. Without David, and those who stood with him, our city would not be the same. His contributions to preserving our citys legacy will never be forgotten. Marty Wheeler, of Crown Point, served alongside David Katz when she was president of the Lake Court House Foundation, and she has been good friends with him and his wife for decades. Well, his loves were strong, Marty Wheeler, of Crown Point, said. He adored his wife, he loved the courthouse and he loved coming to our meetings and being a part of the decision making body for the Lake Court House Foundation. When asked if she could imagine downtown Crown Point without the courthouse, her reply was simple. Oh no. Who could? she said. And nobody will have to do without it because we have a board of directors taking care of it. As a commercial architect for more than 60 years, David Katzs work spanned across 13 states. The Horace Mann High School and University of Illinois graduate designed the first office building in Merrillville in 1972 across from the Merrillville Municipal Complex, Mardi Katz said. Advertisement He was very creative, he even met Frank Lloyd Wright, she said. We went to his home in Wisconsin. That was big for him. Other buildings he designed include Temple Beth-El in Munster; the Jewish Federation of Northwest Indiana in Munster; many NIPSCO facilities; 13 Gary schools; Campagna Academy in Schererville; The Yale Building in downtown Hammond; and many other commercial buildings that characterize the Northwest Indiana today. He also helped save the Jupiter building in Hammond and the Pennsy Depot in Hobart. In 2008, David Katz suffered a traumatic brain injury, but he and his wife visited the courthouse for many years after as he still served the board and was also a dedicated member of the service club, Merrillville Civitan. David Katz was a member of Congregation Beth-Israel in Munster and he was laid to rest at Beth El Cemetery in Portage. in lieu of flowers, his family asks that contributions be made in his memory to Congregation Beth-Israel in Munster and the Lake Court House Foundation in Crown Point Family and friends of a former Atlanta Assistant Principal who was shot and killed in Chicago are pushing for answers after the suspected shooter was released without being charged. Channel 2s Candace McCowan went to the KIPP Strive campus on Monday where he taught. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Pictures from the family of 32-year-old Abnerd Joseph show a smile that greeted students and parents at KIPP Strive every day. He always came up to us, when we would drop the kids off he would always be there at the door saying hello, said parent Latifah Ali. Josephs impact was big at KIPP STRIVE Academy and KIPP Vision Primary School where he served as an assistant principal for five years. But parents were left to have tough conversations with the elementary and middle school students when he was killed last week. Its not something they see all the time, said Ali. TRENDING STORIES: Joseph left KIPP and was working as an assistant principal at a Chicago charter school. Police say Joseph was in the high rise where he was living when he got into a confrontation with another man who shot the educator. Joseph died at the hospital. Over the weekend, police said the shooter who had a concealed carry license, was released without being charged. Those who knew Joseph want answers. Were just going to continue to push for more answers, for security footage, people have ring door cameras. I think we want and I want as his friend just to have some transparency, said Sheree Oats. Theres a lot more questions than there are answers, said Ali. There is a balloon release scheduled at West End Park in honor of Joseph on Tuesday evening. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: Sallamondra Robinson (second from left) speaks during a press conference on the investigation into the murder of Sallamondras daughter Shanquella Robinson outside the National Council of Negro Women Headquarters on May 19, 2023 in Washington, DC. Sallamondra Robinson (second from left) speaks during a press conference on the investigation into the murder of Sallamondras daughter Shanquella Robinson outside the National Council of Negro Women Headquarters on May 19, 2023 in Washington, DC. Tubi and their series Street Legal are under pressure from the family of Shanquella Robinson to stop allegedly using her death for views. A cease-and-desist letter was served to the crime show, stating that Robinsons likeness was used but her family and those who oversee her estate never gave their permission to do so. The episode entitled Frenemies is from Season 2, Episode 2 of Street Legal and contains the description: Within 24 hours, a group of friends traveling to Cabo, Mexico, for a birthday celebration turns into a crime scene, and everyone has a different story. Are they friends or enemies? Read more As reported by The Root, Robinson died in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, nearly a year ago on a birthday trip with a group of her supposed friends. Though foul play was suspected, no arrests were ever made. More from The Root Sign up for The Root's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. A lawsuit accusing officials of failure to mark a dangerous low-head dam is over, at least for now, after the court ruled the plaintiffs failed to meet the heightened requirements set by a 2021 state law. Sharon Kahn, 64, and Vicki K. Hodges, 44, both of West Union, died in June 2020 while tubing on the Turkey River in Fayette County. The two women went over the top of the Clermont dam, became trapped in turbulence at the base of the structure, and drowned. Family members of both women sued the city, county and state in 2022, claiming that despite the stretch of river being designated a state "water trail," inadequate safety equipment and signage upstream of the dam gave no warning to river users that they were approaching a hazard. The Clermont Dam is of a type known as a "low-head dam," meaning water flows over the top of a long berm across the waterway. This makes such dams very hard to spot from upstream and creates powerful cyclical currents at their base, leading officials to call such dams "drowning machines." Several such dams are located in Des Moines, and after years of planning, work began this summer on the first of several projects meant to mitigate the danger they pose and create new watersports attractions. In their lawsuit, the families alleged there were no warnings about the dam at the entry point of the water trail, and four of the five signs meant to warn boaters to disembark upstream were overgrown and concealed from view at the time of the women's deaths. The dam also lacked a suspended safety cable for boaters to grab before going over the edge, with one Iowa Department of Natural Resources official saying it had been destroyed in a flood years earlier and never replaced. Lawsuit runs afoul of new pleading requirements A graphic by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources shows how the flow of water over a low-head dam creates a dangerous circular current that can trap and kill water users. The families accused the state, county and city of negligence and premises liability, saying each played a role and had responsibilities for marketing the river as a water trail while failing to address the dam's obvious hazard. The defendants moved to dismiss the case on several grounds. They argued that under the "public duty doctrine," they cannot be liable for alleged negligence in building and maintaining public works unless the plaintiff can show some "special relationship" between the government and the plaintiff that would create a greater duty than what the government owes to the public at large. The government entities also argued the suit was blocked by Iowa's 2021 Back the Blue law, which created a qualified immunity defense for claims against government entities. The Iowa Supreme Court ruled earlier this year that defense does not apply to claims arising from alleged misconduct before the law was passed. But the law also introduced new requirements for what information must be included in petitions against the government, and the court ruled those procedural changes apply to all lawsuits filed after the law was passed. Because the Hodges and Kahn families filed suit after the law was passed, they were required to meet the new heightened pleading standard that a plaintiff plead with particularity a plausible violation of the law or face dismissal, the defendants argued. This photo, taken on June 12, 2020, and shared by attorneys for the family of Sharon Kahn and Vicki Hodges, was taken upstream of the Clermont Dam. It shows underbrush nearly obscuring a sign warning of the dam. Kahn and Hodges died after floating over the dam on inner tubes on June 8, 2020. The court agreed. On Sept. 5, District Court Judge Laura Parrish dismissed all claims against the county and city, finding that both the public duty doctrine and the Back the Blue law pleading rules required her to dismiss the case. On Thursday, she filed a similar order dismissing the remaining claims against the state. Attorneys for Clermont and Fayette County declined to comment, while the Iowa Attorney General's Office did not respond to a message seeking comment. An attorney for the families did not respond to a request for comment, but in court filings, the plaintiffs have indicated they intend to appeal the rulings. The Clermont suit isn't the first to be tripped up over the Back the Blue law's requirements. A lawsuit by a man paralyzed by Waterloo police was dismissed, although the Supreme Court later revived it. More recently, a lawsuit challenging Polk County's action to rezone an agricultural property for a new headquarters for The Family Leader Foundation also was dismissed for failure to meet the new standards. William Morris covers courts for the Des Moines Register. He can be contacted at wrmorris2@registermedia.com, 715-573-8166 or on Twitter at @DMRMorris. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Families' lawsuit over Clermont Dam drownings dismissed in Iowa courts Bulgarian farmers and owners of processing facilities have driven heavy machinery to road junctions to protest against the parliament's decision not to extend the ban on imports of wheat, corn, rapeseed and sunflower seeds from Ukraine after 15 September. Source: European Pravda with reference to Forbes Bulgaria Details: The protests have blocked a number of roads across the country, including border crossings, main roads and highways. Representatives of 26 industry organisations have announced an indefinite nationwide protest. They urged citizens to travel only when absolutely necessary, warning that heavy agricultural machinery would be travelling on the country's main roads. The protesters are demanding an extension of the ban on imports of sunflower, wheat, corn and rapeseed from Ukraine, as well as a ban on imports of unrefined oil, fresh and frozen fruit and vegetables, milk and dairy products, meat and meat products, live animals, honey and bee products from Ukraine, and increased control over the origin, quality and safety of agricultural products imported into Bulgaria. The farming community is also demanding that the full amount of compensation for increased production costs due to the war in Ukraine be paid to farmers by 30 September, that restrictions on the amount of aid be lifted, and that state aid be immediately paid to compensate farmers who have completely uncultivated land. Among the farmers demands are the allocation of necessary funds to renew existing state subsidies and provide new ones, including minimum subsidies for producers of grapes, potatoes, raspberries, greenhouse produce and tobacco, as well as livestock and honey producers. The farmers are currently pushing demands that have already been resolved or that cannot be resolved, said Bulgarian Prime Minister Nikolai Denkov. In addition, he said, some of these demands are related to the approval of the European Commission. "We are conducting negotiations with grain producers, and the decision to lift the grain ban cannot be made by producers alone," Denkov said. Agriculture Minister Kirill Vitev invited the protesters to talks and said that after the European Commission lifts the ban on imports from Ukraine, negotiations will be held with Kyiv to delay exports to Bulgaria until the products, quantities and mechanisms of licensing regimes have been fully clarified. Background: On Saturday, tensions between the government and farmers escalated after Denkov called some protesters terrorists. Last Thursday, Bulgaria's National Assembly voted to support the lifting of the ban on imports of Ukrainian agricultural products after 15 September. On Friday, the European Commission announced that it would not extend restrictions on imports of agricultural products from Ukraine after 15 September, but Kyiv has agreed to take measures to limit imports. 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! WASHINGTON, D.C. Two South Jersey men who wanted $50 fines for their actions at the U.S. Capitol riot were hit with steeper penalties instead. A federal judge sentenced David Krauss of Sewell and his son, Nicholas Krauss of Sewell, to pay $1,000 each and to serve nine-month probationary terms for a charge arising from the January 2021 insurrection. U.S. District Judge James Boasberg imposed the same sentence on Russell Dodge Jr. of Pedricktown, who entered the Capitol with the Krausses. Each defendant had already agreed to pay $500 in restitution toward more than $2 million in damage caused by rioters. Defense attorney compared Capitol rioters to Kavanaugh protesters All three were arrested in November 2022 and admitted guilt in May to a misdemeanor charge of parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building. They were not accused of engaging in violence or vandalism while spending about 15 minutes in the Capitol's corridors. A surveillance photo shows David Krauss, Nicholas Krauss and Russell Dodge Jr. inside the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. An attorney for the Krausses had requested $50 fines, saying that was the penalty for a woman who disrupted an October 2018 Senate hearing for then Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. The only difference between the nonviolent January 6 protesters and the nonviolent Kavanaugh protesters is politics, the lawyer, Marina Medvin of Virginia, argued in a court filing prior to sentencing. She said the Krausses were among supporters of then President Donald Trump, who came to protest lawfully but who followed the crowd into an unlawful demonstration inside of the Capitol. An attorney for Dodge had suggested a one-year probationary term was appropriate. Prosecutor wanted home detention for South Jersey men Assistant U.S. Attorney Carolina Nevin had called for home detention of 90 days each for David Krauss, 56; and Dodge, 40. She requested 75 days of home detention for Nicholas Krauss, saying the 32-year-old had shown remorse. In a letter to Boasberg, the defendant wrote, If I knew what was going to take place that day I would have never left my house. The prosecution also sought 60 hours of community service for each defendant. In a court filing, Nevin said the trio should be sentenced based on their own conduct, but that the judge should also give substantial weight to the context of their unlawful conduct: their participation in the January 6 riot." She noted the three men entered the building very close in time to the initial breach. Nevin also said the Krausses and Dodge were in a central area of the Capitol called the Crypt when the mass of rioters overran the police who were trying to bar further entrance into the building. The Krausses operate a home construction and repair business that was founded by the father, who is also a landlord. Dodge is a landlord with almost 40 housing units, according to a court filing. Jim Walsh is a senior reporter with the Courier-Post, Burlington County Times and The Daily Journal. Email: Jwalsh@cpsj.com. This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: Judge rejects argument seeking $50 fines for David and Nicholas Krauss Scenes outside of the FBI building in Washington By Raphael Satter WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Beijing has a cyberespionage program so vast that it is bigger than all of its major competitors combined, Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Chris Wray told a conference on Monday. THE TAKE U.S. officials have been sounding the alarm about Chinese hackers for years. But even after decades of handwringing over the theft of American secrets, Wray's comments were unusually stark. KEY QUOTE "China already has a bigger hacking program than every other major nation combined," Wray said. "If each one of the FBI's cyber agents and intelligence analysts focused on China exclusively, Chinese hackers would still outnumber our cyber personnel by at least 50 to 1." THE RESPONSE Beijing's embassy in Washington did not immediately return a message seeking comment, but China has repeatedly denied using hackers to spy on the United States. Last month the embassy said that American officials and media frequently "hyped up" allegations of China-linked espionage. THE CONTEXT *Wray was speaking at mWISE, a Washington conference hosted by Mandiant, the cybersecurity company bought in 2022 by Alphabet's Google Inc. *His comments follow a spate of high-profile hacks blamed on China, including the recent theft of hundreds of thousands of emails from senior U.S. government officials. *Mandiant Chief Executive Kevin Mandia told Reuters at the conference that Chinese hackers were increasingly among the best spies out there. "The top innovator on offense is China," he said. (Reporting by Raphael Satter; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien) Missing mother Lauren Cook and her three children were last seen on 5 September, almost two weeks ago (Franklin County Police) A mother and her three children from Virginia have been missing for almost two weeks, but search efforts were only set in motion a few days after they went missing, police said. Lauren Cook, 30, and her children, a 7-year-old boy, a 5-year-old girl and a 2-year-old boy all mysteriously vanished after they were supposed to turn up at a family members home, but never arrived. Ms Cook and her children were last seen on 5 September in Franklin County, but since then communication with Ms Cook has been unsuccessful, Franklin County police said. The investigation is unusual, as there are no sure signs of why Ms Cook may have disappeared with her children. Ms Cook is married and lives with her husband, who has full custody of their children. There are no records or 911 calls in Franklin County that show any signs of a domestic dispute between the couple. A lot of times you see these situations where a parent loses custody and takes the kids and runs away. This doesnt seem to be like that, the Franklin County police departments public information officer, Sgt Megan Huston, told The New York Post. But theyre not originally from here so I cant say if something has or has not happened elsewhere, Im not privy to that information, Ms Huston said. Its a complex situation that we have limited details on. Ms Cooks husband is very concerned about the whereabouts of his family. Hes upset, as any parent would be of where are my children at?, Ms Huston told WSLS. Sgt. Megan Huston says that this case is unusual, as the reasons of why a parent may flee with her children are not applicable (WSLS) Officials said it was presumed she could have been in New York at one point, but they say she could have still been in Franklin County or somewhere else in Virginia. Police are unsure of where Ms Cook and her children could be. "Anytime anything involves children they want to make sure the children are safe," Ms Huston told Fox News. "We have gotten an outpouring of support for trying to locate this family and we would appreciate any additional shares of any news media coverage on this so that we can locate Lauren and her children." Authorities say that while they are unable to reach Ms Cook, a key clue to their investigation is her mobile phone, which last pinged in Lexington, Virginia on 7 September. Deputies also said there has been no activity on her bank account, reported WSLS. It is thought that the mother and her three children could be travelling in a blue 2013 Chrysler van with Virginia tags. HOPEWELL Hopewell Police have arrested a third suspect in the shooting death last December of an eight-year-old girl. The suspect, a 17-year-old juvenile, was arrested Sept. 14 in New York, police Lt. Jacquita Allen said in an email late Monday afternoon. He has been extradited to Virginia and is being held at a local juvenile detention center. The boy, who was not identified because of his age, has been charged with first-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, conspiracy to commit murder and shooting from inside a vehicle. Allen said the boy is a New York resident. It was not immediately clear what his ties to Hopewell were. P'Aris Mi-Unique Angel Moore Eight-year-old PAris Mi-Unique Moore was killed Dec. 30, 2022, on Freeman Street in east Hopewell. Police originally reported that her death was the result of an altercation involving a vehicle near where she and some friends were playing. Two other suspects, Jamari Antonio Taylor, 20, of Hopewell, and Rayquan Latrel Harvell, 18, of Chesterfield County, were indicted Aug. 8 on charges of first-degree murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. Taylor also was indicted on conspiracy to commit murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Taylor is due in Hopewell Circuit Court Oct. 11 for a status hearing. A similar hearing for Harvell is set for Nov. 1. Taylor, who shares a last name with the victim's mother but is not related to her, also is a suspect in the June 24 slaying of William Jamal Claiborne at the Langston Park Apartments in Hopewell. Taylor was being held in jail when the P'Aris Moore murder indictments were handed up. Allen said the juvenile is the final suspect police were looking for in the investigation. The Hopewell Police Department would like to thank all of the local, state, and federal partnerships that assisted in investigating and apprehending each offender in this case, she wrote in the email. In Virginia, juveniles may be tried as an adult if they are at least 14 years old at the time the crime was committed and if that crime would have been a felony if committed by an adult. The commonwealth's attorney would request it to be transferred from the juvenile into the adult court system. 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: Juvenile arrested in 2022 murder of Hopewell child A fire currently blazing off of Tenth Avenue in Columbus possibly started due to an explosion, according to a Columbus Fire & EMS spokesperson. The fire department is working to acquire an airport fire apparatus to extinguish the fire. Chief John Shull said these devices are used to extinguish aircraft fires and can carry a variety of extinguishing agents. Shull said an investigator is on scene and that the cause has yet to be determined. The fire is currently contained. Fire officials are asking people to avoid Tenth Avenue south of Cusseta Road and north of Victory Drive. A truck from Fort Moore recently arrived on the scene. Shull said that no injuries have been reported. Fire Chief Sal Scarpa said the department got a call from 911 dispatch around 8:30 p.m. of an explosion and fire. Scarpa said that upon arrival they found several piles of recyclables burning. There is no danger to the community, according to Scarpa. A Maryland firefighter found out he had scored a big lottery win but duty called, officials say. He went in to work. The 41-year-old from Odenton won $50,004 in a Sept. 16 Powerball drawing, Maryland Lottery officials said in a Sept. 18 news release. The man said he randomly decided to play the lottery the day before the drawing in Oxon Hill, in Prince Georges County. I bought a sandwich and then I felt lucky, he told lottery officials. So he bought a Powerball ticket that ended up bringing in one of the states three third-tier prizes in that days drawing. He found out before work that he had won, officials say. He matched four of the five winning numbers and the Powerball, earning him the $50,000. He won $4 off another line. I was a wreck, but I still had to go to work, he told lottery officials. He admitted to telling some of his co-workers when he got to the station. I couldnt keep it to myself, he told officials. It was hard to contain. He said he plans to use his winnings to pay his bills. The Sept. 18 drawing has the 10th largest jackpot in Powerball history at about $638 million, Maryland and Powerball officials say. What to know about Powerball To score a jackpot in the Powerball, a player must match all five white balls and the red Powerball. The odds of scoring the jackpot prize are 1 in 292,201,338. Tickets cost $2 and can be bought on the day of the drawing, but sales times vary by state. Drawings are broadcast Saturdays, Mondays and Wednesdays at 10:59 p.m. ET and can be streamed online. Powerball is played in 45 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Many people can gamble or play games of chance without harm. However, for some, gambling is an addiction that can ruin lives and families. If you or a loved one shows signs of gambling addiction, you can seek help by calling the national gambling hotline at 1-800-522-4700 or visiting the National Council on Problem Gambling website. Lottery players $100,000 win kept growing. Now Missouri woman will honor late husband Lottery player scores lucky ticket at Publix in Florida. Prize left him trembling Lottery prize left Virginia winners husband in disbelief. I had to prove it to him Couple play lottery on last day of Maryland vacation and go home with hefty souvenir Violet Nimnicht ,7, of Valparaiso, releases a butterfly in honor of POW/MIA Remembrance Day at the Valparaiso VFW Post 988 on Friday, Sept. 15, 2023. (Deena Lawley-Dixon/Post-Tribune) Veterans, families, and community members gathered at the Valparaiso VFW Post 988 Friday for a heartfelt ceremony in honor of POW/MIA Remembrance Day. They are unable to be with their loved ones so we join together to pay humble tribute and to bear witness to their continued absence, said VFW member and Veteran Ryan Kominakis, noting the presence of the ceremonial POW/MIA or Missing Man table that sits in a place of honor at the VFW hall. Advertisement I am humbled to be here and to be here and to be surrounded by selfless Veterans and their families, said guest speaker and local community member Ellen Kapitan. May we use our time here together to remember our heroes with our deepest sincerity. Veteran Richard Jakubowicz pays tribute to the POW/MIA table on Friday, Sept. 15, 2023, at the VFW Post 988 in Valparaiso, which is a place setting in honor of missing comrades and prisoners of war. (Deena Lawley-Dixon/Post-Tribune) More than 40 years ago, President Jimmy Carter signed a proclamation to give special recognition to Americas service members who were Prisoners of War or remain Missing in Action and unaccounted for from conflicts that date as far back as World War II. As of the last update, on May 22, 2023, more than 81,000 Americans remain missing, according to the federal Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. Advertisement VFW member and State Rep. Ed Soliday, R-Valparaiso, also a guest speaker, spoke of his time serving the country. When I was in Vietnam, a colonel was killed, and he wrote us a note after he was killed, talking about who all his death affected, said Soliday. But at least they had closure. These families dont. Indiana State Rep. Ed Soliday, R-Valparaiso, a member of Valparaiso's VFW Post 988 and veteran, speaks at the post on Friday, Sept. 15, 2023 during POW/MIA Remembrance Day. (Deena Lawley-Dixon/Post-Tribune) My dad always said Never leave your buddy from the time I was a little boy, and that stuck with me, said Soliday. These are our buddies, and they are missing. We need to remember this day as more than just a mark on the calendar, said Soliday. Following the ceremony, everyone went outside to release butterflies. Butterflies were flown in from Florida to be released at the VFW Post 988 in Valparaiso on Friday, Sept. 15, 2023, in honor of POW/MIA Remembrance Day. (Deena Lawley-Dixon/Post-Tribune) They are flown in frozen from Florida, said Jackie Clark, president of the VFW Auxiliary. They are packaged and then you can listen to them slowly start to flutter. Its the coolest thing ever, and everyone loves it. The VFW, along with other national organizations, has been working diligently to recover and identify service members who paid the ultimate sacrifice. They are working with foreign governments to help American researchers gain access to foreign military officials and archives and past battlefields; 38,000 personnel are estimated to be recoverable. Ryan Kominakis, a member of Valparaiso's VFW Post 988 and veteran, speaks at the post on Friday, Sept. 15, 2023 during POW/MIA Remembrance Day. (Deena Lawley-Dixon/Post-Tribune) They are our comrades, said Kominakis. We owe them our support and vigilance until that day comes. Advertisement For more information on the efforts to recover those missing in action, visit vfw.org or defense.gov. Deena Lawley-Dixon is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune. Yuliia Laputina, Ukraines Minister for Veterans Affairs, assures that the construction of the National Military Memorial Cemetery is confidently coming along, adding that the first sections of the memorial are planned to be laid by the end of 2023. Source: Laputina, quoted by Radio Liberty Quote: "The National Military Memorial Cemetery is being created for the first time in the history of our state. Therefore, we look forward to fruitful cooperation of all related departments." Details: According to the minister, the National Military Memorial Cemetery will be located on the territory of the Hatne territorial hromada in Kyiv Oblast, with a convenient location with access to public transport [a hromada is an administrative unit designating a town, village or several villages and their adjacent territories ed.]. The memorial will include a number of buildings and squares: a military cemetery, a museum, a ritual building, a modern crematorium and other necessary structures for organising honorary burials. The complex will combine both traditional burials and columbarium ones, Laputina assures. Currently, the minister says, an early design of the cemetery is being developed, and its construction will take place in several stages, "so that by the end of 2023 the first stage of the structures can be put into operation and the burial of Ukrainian heroes can begin immediately." Background: On 31 May 2022, the Verkhovna Rada adopted a bill providing for the creation of a National Military Memorial Cemetery in Ukraine, as well as determining the procedure for organising burials and reburials of deceased Ukrainian servicemen. At first the cemetery was supposed to be built in the Lysa Hora tract, but activists and the government opposed it. In March 2023, the Ministry for Veterans Affairs and the Ministry of Culture proposed the creation of a National Military Memorial Cemetery near the Bykivnia Graves Reserve in Kyiv. However, in August, it was stated by representatives of the Bykivnia Graves Reserve that it was impossible to build the memorial in the Bykivnia forest in a short time, because there may still be old burials. Then the location was changed: the Cabinet of Ministers approved the implementation of the National Military Memorial Cemetery project in the Hatne hromada near Kyiv by August 2025. Ukraine has not announced the number of casualties among soldiers since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation. Authorities and military leaders say the data will be disclosed after the war. 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! DOHA, Qatar Five Americans wrongfully imprisoned in Iran for years were released Monday as part of a prisoner exchange agreement that gives Tehran access to $6 billion in oil revenues frozen under U.S. sanctions. A plane carrying the five Americans and two of their relatives touched down in Qatar, which had helped broker the swap. After the Americans walked down the steps from the plane at the Doha airport, they were greeted on the tarmac by Qatari and U.S. officials. At one point, former prisoners Siamak Namazi, Morad Tahbaz and Emad Shargi walked together arm-in-arm. A few hours later, the freed Americans boarded a U.S. government plane bound for Washington, D.C., according to a senior diplomat in the region briefed on their whereabouts. Five Iranian nationals held in U.S. custody were also expected to be released as part of the deal. NBC News first reported on the prisoner swap negotiations in February. U.S. citizens, from left, Emad Sharqi and Morad Tahbaz Siamak Namazi disembark from a Qatari jet upon their arrival at the Doha International Airport on Sept. 18, 2023. (Karim Jaafar / AFP - Getty Images) Days before the Americans were released, Republican lawmakers in Washington blasted the deal, saying it amounted to a ransom payment and would only encourage Iran to imprison more foreigners. A similar 2015 arrangement during the Obama administration, in which Iran was given access to blocked funds at the same time Americans held in Iran were freed, also came under fierce criticism then from Republicans as a capitulation to Tehran. But families of the freed Americans say their loved ones were hostages taken captive on false charges and used as bargaining chips by the Iranian government. The families and some former hostages say the Biden administration had to use the leverage it had available to secure the freedom of the imprisoned U.S. citizens, or face the prospect of the Americans staying incarcerated indefinitely. Past presidents, including Donald Trump, engaged in prisoner swaps, as well. A spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry said Monday that of the five Iranians released as part of the swap, two planned to return to Iran, one was headed to a third country and two others intended to remain in the U.S., where they have legal residence. In a statement, President Joe Biden said, "Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home. ... I am grateful to our partners at home and abroad for their tireless efforts to help us achieve this outcome, including the Governments of Qatar, Oman, Switzerland, and South Korea." "As we celebrate the return of these Americans," Biden said, "we also remember those who did not return. I call on the Iranian regime to give a full account of what happened to Bob Levinson. The Levinson family deserves answers." Levinson was a former DEA and FBI agent taken prisoner by Iran in 2007 and presumed to have died in captivity prior to March 25, 2020. On Monday, Biden said he was sanctioning former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and the Iranian Ministry of Intelligence under the Levinson Act "for their involvement in wrongful detentions. And, we will continue to impose costs on Iran for their provocative actions in the region." He also reminded U.S. citizens of the risks involved in traveling to Iran: "American passport holders should not travel there." Secretary of State Antony Blinken also announced that the U.S. was taking steps to impose visa restrictions "on three Iranian government officials believed to be responsible for or complicit in serious abuses or violations of human rights, as well as hostage-taking or wrongful, arbitrary, or otherwise unjust detention of U.S. and foreign nationals." Image: Baquer and Siamak Namazi (Courtesy Babak Namazi) One of the Americans who landed in Doha on Monday, Siamak Namazi, 51, had been imprisoned in Iran for almost eight years longer than any of the other current American detainees. A graduate of White Plains High School in New York and a business consultant with degrees from Tufts and Rutgers universities, he was arrested in 2015 and convicted of espionage in a trial that only lasted a few hours. His father, Baquer Namazi, was arrested in 2016 when he traveled to Iran to visit his son. The elder Namazi was released last year. After his release, Namazi issued a statement through his lawyer thanking all those who did not allow the world to forget about me, but said his elation was tinged with sadness for those who remain behind bars in Iran. For almost eight years I have been dreaming of this day. Now that it is finally here, I find my ineffable joy of my forthcoming reunification with my family is laced with sorrow a painful and deep feeling of guilt for taking my breaths in freedom while so many courageous individuals that I love and admire continue languishing behind those walls, he said. All the political prisoners, and indeed, the entire populace of Iran, where the indomitable courage of women leaves us in awe, deserve their liberty, he added. Emad Shargi. (United for Iran) Emad Shargi, 59, an Iranian-born businessman from Washington, D.C., who moved to the U.S. as a young man, was arrested in April 2018. He was released on bail and cleared of all charges in December 2019, but Iranian authorities refused to return his passport. He was charged again in 2020 and convicted of espionage charges without a trial. His sister Neda said in a statement, "My family is so happy to hear that Emad is no longer in Iran and is on his way home. We have been waiting for this day for almost five and a half years and I cant wait to hug my brother and never let him go. This day would not be possible if President Biden had not shown the kind of leadership it takes to make hard decisions and bring our families home." "This is my brother, not an abstract policy." Roxanne Tahbaz holds a picture of her father Morad Tahbaz during a protest (Stefan Rousseau / PA Images via Getty Images file) Morad Tahbaz, 67, an Iranian American who also holds British citizenship, was arrested in January 2018 and convicted of espionage in 2019. Tahbaz was part of a group of environmental activists carrying out research on Irans endangered cheetah population. U.S. officials said the families of the two other Americans released requested that their names remain private. Human rights groups say Iran has been engaged in hostage-taking for decades, using foreign prisoners as a tool to exert leverage over other governments. Rights groups also say the espionage charges against the American prisoners were without foundation. Iran denies the accusation and says all prisoners are treated in accordance with the countrys laws. Darian Dalili speaks with a woman outside the White House (Andrew Caballero-Reynolds / AFP via Getty Images file) The prisoner exchange did not include two U.S. legal permanent residents with green cards who remained behind bars in Tehran. One of them, Shahab Dalili, was arrested and imprisoned in 2016 while visiting Tehran for his fathers funeral, according to his family. His wife and children are U.S. citizens living in Virginia. His son recently held a sit-in for days outside the State Department, demanding his father be included in the swap. Jamshid Sharmahd, a software developer living in California, was kidnapped in 2020 during a stopover in the United Arab Emirates and taken to Iran, according to his family. He is a German citizen and is now facing the death penalty on charges of corruption on earth. But his family says he merely advocated for democracy in Iran. The prisoner exchange was the culmination of difficult negotiations over a period of years in which the U.S. flat out rejected some Iranian demands, a senior administration official told reporters earlier. When the opportunity came together after pretty principled, persistent diplomacy," the official said, "thats when we chose to move forward." Image: (Lujain Jo / AP) A senior State Department official said, We feel like we have a really good deal. This is going to get these Americans home. This is going to get these Americans reunited with their loved ones. U.S. officials said they had no confidence that Iran would stop detaining Americans or other foreigners, and that was why they were issuing stark warnings against any travel to Iran. To be blunt, no American should travel to Iran for any reason, the official said. The senior administration official said that the prisoner exchange would not fundamentally alter Americas tense relations with Iran. Importantly, this deal does not change our relationship with Iran in any way. Iran is an adversary and a state sponsor of terrorism. We will hold them accountable wherever possible, the official said. The official noted that as recently as Friday, the administration introduced new sanctions against Iranian state media, officials and other entities that the U.S. says contribute to the repression of the Iranian people. The new sanctions coincided with the first anniversary of the death of Mahsa Amini, a young Kurdish woman who died in police custody and whose death triggered a wave of anti-regime protests. The official also defended the terms of the deal, saying that the funds unblocked by the U.S. are not taxpayer dollars but Iranian oil revenues that Tehran would only be permitted to use for medicine, food or other humanitarian purchases. Qatar would oversee the funds under strict rules, the official added. And the Treasury Department will monitor the transactions as well from the account managed by Qatar. U.S. officials have warned that Washington is prepared to freeze the funds again if Iran violates U.S. sanctions. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, however, told NBC News' Lester Holt in an exclusive interview that Tehran will decide how to spend the $6 billion. Asked if the money would be used for other purposes apart from humanitarian needs, he said: Humanitarian means whatever the Iranian people needs, so this money will be budgeted for those needs, and the needs of the Iranian people will be decided and determined by the Iranian government. He added that the money will be spent wherever we need it. Namazi expressed heartfelt gratitude to Biden and his administration for making what he called the tough decisions to secure his release and his fellow American prisoners. And he urged the president to lead an international effort to impose severe costs on Iran and other states that engage in hostage taking. Over the past 44 years, the Iranian regime has mastered the nasty game of caging innocent Americans and other foreign nationals, and commercializing their freedom. By now Evin Prison is virtually a dystopian United Nations of Hostages, he said. It is only if the free world finally agrees to collectively impose draconian consequences on those who use human lives as mere bargaining chips, that the Iranian regime and its ilk will be compelled to make different choices, he said. For the moment, Namazi asked that he be given time to become re-acquainted with liberty after 2,898 days in prison, and said he planned to take care of health issues and spend time with family and loved ones. His pro bono counsel, Jared Genser, told NBC News Namazi "missed eight years of the most productive years of his life" and "he wants to be married, he wants to have kids, he needs to find a job, a place to live." One of his priorities, Namazi said, was to experience nature again after so many years behind bars. I want to see foliage instead of walls and wardens. I want to lay back on the grass, with the warm sun on my face, and gaze up at the open blue skies. Namazi also said he was eager to visit an Apple store to replace the devices his captors had seized and see what was now available: I am dying to find out what gadgets now exist. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Five Americans imprisoned in Iran and two of their family members are en route to the United States after they were released in a prisoner exchange the Biden administration negotiated with Tehran. A plane carrying all seven Americans left Iran Monday morning and stopped briefly in Qatar before departing for the U.S. The prisoner exchange, while not formally linked to stalled nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran, comes against a backdrop of tensions that routinely push the two countries toward a potential military confrontation. It also comes ahead of a United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York this week, where President Joe Biden and Iranian hardline President Ebrahim Raisi will both speak. In addition, the prisoner exchange could inject some new tensions in the U.S. presidential race. Republican presidential candidates in recent weeks have blasted the Biden administration's decision to push ahead with the prisoner exchange, arguing it amounts to paying a ransom to a state sponsor of terrorism. The exchange sets free five Americans who had been accused of being spies or working on behalf of the U.S. government in Iran. The United Nations described their detentions as "arbitrary." The White House has also said the allegations are false. A senior Biden administration official confirmed that two family members were also on the plane carrying the prisoners back to the United States. As part of the deal, $6 billion in frozen Iranian oil revenues was released by the Biden administration and five Iranians charged or convicted of non-violent crimes were freed by the United States, according to U.S. officials. The White House said Biden held "an emotional call" with the families of the seven Americans who are returning home. Each family member who joined the call spoke with the president. Dig deeper: Americans freed from Iran prison feared they had been left to 'rot Here are their stories. Americans, Iranians: Who's being swapped for whom? Three of the American prisoners, all dual U.S.-Iran citizens, are Siamak Namazi, Emad Sharghi and Morad Tahbaz . The identities of the two other Americans have not been released. A senior Biden administration official said those two Americans wish to keep their identities private. U.S. works to free Americans in Iran: Here's what Tehran might get Also on the plane are Namazi's mother and Tahbaz's wife, both of whom were previously unable to leave Iran. Businessman Namazi, 51, was arrested in 2015 while visiting his family in Tehran. Sharghi, 59, was detained in 2018 a year after moving to Iran from the U.S. to work for a tech investment company. Environmentalist Tahbaz, 67, who also holds British citizenship, was arrested in 2018 while working on a conservation project in Iran. An American is detained abroad: What happens next? Call the president? Two of the five Iranians who were freed had been convicted of non-violent crimes while three others were awaiting trial and had not been convicted, two senior Biden administration officials said. The five Americans were moved from prison to house arrest in an Iranian hotel in an interim step towards their release last month. The deal emerged after months of indirect negotiations between U.S. and Iranian officials. As part of the deal, the U.S. also released $6 billion in frozen Iranian oil revenues, transferred from banks in South Korea to Qatar, an energy-rich nation on the Arabian Peninsula that is an ally of both nations. The U.S. and Iran have no formal diplomatic relations. The funds are intended to be used for humanitarian purposes only. In a statement issued Monday, Biden Biden celebrated the release of the Americans and thanked the governments of Qatar, Oman, Switzerland and South Korea for their role in facilitating the agreement. Here's who and what is in the deal, why it's happening now, and why the American public should take an interest. US citizens Siamak Namazi (C-back), Emad Sharqi (bottom-L) and Morad Tahbaz (bottom-R) disembark from a Qatari jet upon their arrival at the Doha International Airport in Doha on Sept. 18, 2023. Five US detainees, three previously identified as Siamak Namazi, Morad Tahbaz and Emad Sharqi and two who wish to remain anonymous, released by Iran landed in Doha in a prisoner swap on September 18 after $6 billion in frozen funds were transferred to Iranian accounts in Qatar. 'We just know we want our brother home': Inside the secretive world of freeing American hostages abroad The five Iranians released by the U.S. are Mehrdad Moein Ansari, Kambiz Attar Kashani, Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani, Amin Hasanzadeh and Kaveh Afrasiabi, according to Al-Monitor. Three of the Iranians did not want to go back to Iran. Iran state media said one wanted to go to a third country and two will stay in the U.S. The Biden administration official also said the U.S. government will be issuing new sanctions against Iran's ministry of intelligence and its former president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, under the Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act, which expands government tools to combat wrongful detentions. The measure was signed into law in late 2020. Levinson, a former FBI agent, disappeared during a visit to an Iranian island in 2007. What have the U.S. and Iran agreed to? The U.S. has been freezing Iran's assets and piling on economic sanctions ever since President Donald Trump pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers in 2018. That deal was aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear activities amid international allegations, which Iran denies, that it's seeking nuclear weapons. Under the prisoner swap agreement announced early Monday, the U.S. has given the green light to South Korea to effectively pay Iran, through Qatar's banking system, for oil it purchased before the Trump administration imposed sanctions on these types of transactions in 2019. The White House says these funds will be held in restricted accounts in Qatar that will only allow Iran to purchase humanitarian goods such as food, medicine, medical devices and agricultural products, the administration officials said. If Iran tries to divert the funds or use them for anything other than a limited humanitarian purposes authorized, the Biden administration "will take action to lock up the funds," the official said. None of the money comes from U.S. taxpayers, according to another senior U.S. official who was not authorized to speak publicly, and it is thus not a ransom. Oversight of how the money is used will be provided by the U.S. Treasury, Qatar and aid organizations. In an interview with USA TODAY ahead of the prisoner swap, U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the U.S. has been categoric that it will control how the funds are used. They will be for humanitarian purposes. I have no doubt, Thomas-Greenfield said. However, Iran's foreign ministry and state media have also appeared to claim that the unfrozen funds in Qatar would be under Tehran's direct and unrestricted control. "Humanitarian means whatever the Iranian people need. So, this money will be budgeted for those needs, and the needs of the Iranian people will be decided and determined by the Iranian government," Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi said in a recent interview with NBC News. Republicans say the Biden administration is being naive. Appearing on Fox Business on Sunday, House Foreign Affairs Chairman Michael McCaul, R-Texas, pointed to Raisis comment and charged that the money would fund terror proxy operations and an offensive system for a nuclear war." US citizens Siamak Namazi (2nd-L) and Morad Tahbaz (R) are welcomed by people upon disembarking from a Qatari jet upon their arrival at the Doha International Airport in Doha on Sept. 18, 2023. Five US detainees, three previously identified as Siamak Namazi, Morad Tahbaz and Emad Sharqi and two who wish to remain anonymous, released by Iran landed in Doha in a prisoner swap on September 18 after $6 billion in frozen funds were transferred to Iranian accounts in Qatar. Why is this prisoner swap happening now? As of late August, at least 59 U.S. nationals were known to be held hostage or wrongfully detained in at least 15 countries, according to the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation's annual Bringing Americans Home report. The foundation was started after the kidnapping and murder of an American freelance journalist. Over the last decade, several Americans detained in Iran have been released and those negotiations have followed a similar pattern in terms of conditions. 'Undersecretary for thugs': Bill Richardson's endless push to free Americans detained abroad The U.S. and Iran have not had formal diplomatic relations since 1980, a consequence of the nation's Islamic Revolution and a hostage crisis at the U.S. Embassy in Tehran. In the decades since tensions have simmered on and off. Roxanne Tahbaz holds a photograph of her father, Morad Tahbaz, outside the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office on April 13, 2022 in London, England. Roxanne Tahbaz, the daughter of Morad Tahbaz, jailed in Iran, says the treatment of her Father and family has been a "betrayal" by the UK government. Tahbaz, 66, a US national in addition to his UK nationality and Iranian family background, is a wildlife conservationist jailed along with seven other conservationists in 2019. He was given a ten-year jail sentence after an unfair trial. He suffers from serious health conditions, including a history of cancer, and the Iranian authorities have prevented him from receiving the medical care he needs. In addition to this his wife, Vida, is also stuck in Iran after the authorities issued her with a travel ban. That's not about to change. But Henry Rome, an Iran expert and senior fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, said that the Biden administration has been viewing a prisoner swap with Tehran as a "prerequisite to moving forward with Iran," including, eventually "resuming some type of nuclear negotiation." U.S.-Iran pact: Trump destroyed it. Biden wants to restore it. Just don't call it a deal He said the prisoner exchange represented a "step in the direction of de-escalation" and that if re-elected President Biden could seek to revive the nuclear deal with Iran and world powers in 2025. Rome added that while American foreign policy attention may be absorbed with Russia and China right now, as the former wages its war in Ukraine and latter increasingly competes with the U.S. on a range of fronts, he believed that if Americans were to "wake up to a war tomorrow it would most likely be with Iran." He said this was because of the threat to U.S. forces in the Middle East by Iran-backed militias and because of the "constant friction" that results from U.S. attempts to ensure unimpeded travel through the Strait of Hormuz for oil tankers. Iran's navy has hijacked tankers and harassed U.S. naval ships in this area. Iran claims revenge for Qasem Soleimani: U.S. Navy is still a target An unhappy anniversary 'Woman, life, liberty' Iranians on why they'll risk beatings and death for change Still, the timing of the prisoner swap may not be entirely coincidental. Ebrahim Raisi, Irans hardline president, will be in New York this week to attend the United Nations General Assembly, an annual event where 193 UN member states debate war, peace and everything in between. September 16 also marked the one-year anniversary of the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman who was arrested in Tehran by Iran's so-called morality police, allegedly for violating hijab rules. A year since Mahsa Amini's death: Britain, U.S. impose new sanctions on Iran Iranians protests the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini after she was detained by the morality police in Tehran. After Amini died in police custody, some of the largest protests in Iran in years erupted. They lasted for months. They were eventually suppressed by Iran's security services in a violent crackdown. "Iranian authorities are pushing ahead with a range of tactics aimed at breaking the resistance of women. They are bringing economic pain and suffering at a very individual level," said Tara Sepehri Far, a researcher at London-based think tank Chatham House, in a recent online discussion on X, formerly Twitter. But the anger Amini's death unleashed could be waiting for a new moment to resurface. "The prisoner release deal will be a huge relief to the long suffering families of the detained," Lauren Rozen, a veteran diplomatic correspondent and Iran expert wrote in her substack newsletter published on Sept. 12 "And it may do a bit to distract from gloomier headlines during Raisis New York visit, where he is certain to face protests, at least back home." Inside Iran: Americas contentious history in Iran leads to mix of anger, wonderment and weariness The first Biden administration official, however, said there are no meetings planned or envisioned over the coming week with Iranian officials. But the administration does plan, he said, to talk to allies including Britain, France, Germany and others during the diplomatic gathering in New York. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Iran prisoner swap: 5 Americans released in deal negotiated by Biden Five EU countries bordering Ukraine have signaled their opposition to Kyivs proposals on implementing export controls on shipments of Ukrainian grain, Polish news agency PAP reported on Sept. 18, citing an EU source. According to the report, Ukraine has presented its proposals to the European Commission regarding importing grain into EU countries, which would require implementing a system of export permits. The source said that "countries bordering Ukraine, specifically Poland, have opposed the proposal." Read also: Bulgaria to lift embargo on Ukrainian grain imports As per the proposal, Ukraine's Economy Ministry will independently decide on the permits for grain export to the EU, even if the EU countries object. Licensing discussions would take place with EU member states and the European Commission, but the final decision will be made by Kyiv officials. Read also: Ukraine to use WTO arbitration in response to extended grain import embargo by Poland Additionally, PAP's source stated that Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia will not participate in the Ukrainian grain exchange in Brussels, following Ukraine's decision to file a lawsuit against them with the World Trade Organization. Read also: Hungary threatens to introduce total ban on Ukraine agro imports On Sept. 15, the European Commission decided not to extend the ban on importing Ukrainian grains into Poland, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, and Slovakia, provided that Ukraine adheres to certain rules, such as implementing export control measures. After this, Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia announced they would unilaterally continue the ban on importing Ukrainian grains. Besides wheat, rapeseed, sunflower, and corn, Poland has banned the import of groats and flour into the country, while Hungary has expanded the list to 25 items. 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 On 18 September, five member states of the European Union rejected a plan prepared by Ukraine to limit the export of agricultural products which, according to the European Commission, should replace unilateral restrictions on Ukrainian imports. Source: European Pravda, citing Polish media outlet PAP Details: Under Kyiv's proposal, PAP says, Ukraines Ministry of Economy would independently decide on the granting of permits to export grain to the EU, including the five eastern member countries, even if they oppose such permits. Ukraine is offering to hold consultations with EU countries and the European Commission regarding export permits, but "regardless of the results of the consultations, the final decision will remain with Kyiv," the Polish agency writes. At a meeting in Brussels, Andrzej Sados, the Permanent Representative of Poland to the EU, criticised the Ukrainian proposal, which Warsaw says does not solve the issue of controlling and limiting the flow of Ukrainian grain. A source in the EU told PAP that Ukraine's neighbouring states opposed Kyiv's proposal. Background: 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! The start of the 2023-24 school year is in full swing as millions of U.S. students have returned to classrooms, but not without some hiccups. Kids across the country have seen some of their first days back canceled due to lack of transportation, extreme heat or insufficient educators to teach. Others saw schools closed over COVID-19 again. The start signals that issues exacerbated by the pandemic will continue to cause trouble for educators and students. Here are the biggest stories nationwide out of the new academic year: School bus driver shortage The school bus driver shortage alone has affected tens of thousands of students across the country as delays and cancellations plagued their first week back. In Kentucky, Jefferson County Public Schools had a self-proclaimed transportation disaster, as some students did not get home until 10 p.m. due to the issue. I saw some incredible instruction. Kids excited, families excited, new school buildings, and to have it end with the transportation disaster that we had last night was truly unacceptable. And once again, I apologize for that, Superintendent Marty Pollio said. The bus driver shortage has been an ongoing problem as the industry attempts to weather low pay, licensing problems and a changing workforce. HopSkipDrive, a school safety transportation organization, found in 2022 that 88 percent of school district leaders and school transportation experts thought the shortage had hurt their operations. Heat days Students have not only had trouble getting to school, but once there, they havent been able to stay due to the weather. Multiple states have had weather over 90 degrees with school buildings that have no air conditioning. In Milwaukee, 154 schools with 70,000 students shut down due to excessive heat. Another 33,000 students were let out of class early in Des Moines, Iowa. Are these heat days becoming the new snow days? And my answer to that is yes, Jan Carney, the associate dean for public health at the University of Vermont, told The Hill last month. Around 41 percent of schools in the U.S. do not have proper heating and air systems in their buildings, according to a 2020 report from the Government Accountability Office. The extreme heat often has the strongest impact in northern states not used to the weather and poorer school districts that dont have the infrastructure to deal with it. Teacher shortage Another problem that has lingered into the new school year is not enough educators for students. Four Las Vegas Valley schools closed this week due to a teacher shortage amid a lawsuit against the teachers union. There are an unexpected number of licensed staff/teachers absent from school today and we have made the difficult decision to not have school today, Southwest Career and Technical Academy Principal Donna Levy said. Governors have become creative in avoiding shortages, using strategies such as loosening restrictions on out-of-state teachers licenses and allowing retired teachers to come back to the classroom easier. One school in Pennsylvania switched to a four-day school week to preemptively avoid a teacher shortage. PragerU in schools At least three states so far have approved materials from PragerU, a conservative education platform, to be used in classrooms this school year. Teachers in Florida, Oklahoma and New Hampshire are allowed to show PragerU videos in class without fear of repercussion, although they are not required to use it. PragerU is proud to provide high-quality, engaging, and informational materials to New Hampshire and other states throughout the country for K-12 students, the company said after its latest win in New Hampshire. More specifically, PragerUs Cash Course series is wholesome, age-appropriate, and non-political, making it a great option for students seeking to learn more about financial responsibility in an entertaining and educational way. PragerU has become popular with billions of views for its five-minute videos that dive into political and cultural topics from a conservative perspective. Others have raised alarm over the videos, saying the conservative education platform spreads misinformation on topics such as climate change. Kids are told to fight climate change but are rarely taught about the human cost of reducing emissions. This animated video teaches middle and high school students about energy and the environment through the eyes of young Ania living in Poland, who must face a devastating winter after the Polish government bans the use of coal, the PragerU video about climate change says in the description. Other PragerU videos include Was the Civil War About Slavery? and The Inconvenient Truth About the Democratic Party. COVID-19 rise again Coronavirus cases are rising and caused a few schools to shut down for a couple of days due to the number of absences. A spout of cases in Texas and Kentucky caused three schools to switch to online classes briefly. It is difficult to track COVID-19 nationally now that the federal public health emergency and tracking requirements are over, but data such as hospitalization rates have concerned experts that cases are going to spike this fall. Superintendents told The Hill that school districts are focusing on COVID-19 mitigation tactics and working with local health authorities on appropriate action to take. Superintendents will not make these calls in isolation, said George Roberts, a Maryland school superintendent. What they did do during COVID, and what theyre currently doing now and I suspect will continue to do as we get into the fall and winter season is work in conjunction with their own internal health office in their county or city. For the most part, a vast majority of schools have not tried to implement district-wide mask mandates or closures again. As the cases rise, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has approved new COVID-19 vaccines for school-aged children this past week. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. After the emergence of new people in the NABU leadership - Director Semen Kryvonos (left) and his deputy Polina Lysenko - there was an outflow of top detectives from the Bureau. The most influential person in the NABU is the first deputy director, Gizo Uglava (foreground). Under the new head of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU), Semen Kryvonos, and his first deputy, Gizo Uglava, the bureau is drifting into the orbit of the Presidents Office. Employees who dont agree with such a turn are subject to official investigations and layoffs, or simply leave the agency. The creation of an independent anti-graft agency in 2015 was a key demand from the European Union, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the United States. The EU refused to implement a visa-free travel regime with Ukraine without this requirement. The first iteration of NABUs management found a difficult balance between the fight against corruption and the possibility of dialogue with the authorities, particularly with the Presidents Office. Artem Sytnyk, the former NABU head, was a bad policeman who sought to put pressure on the ruling elites sensitive areas. On the other hand, Uglava, his first deputy, tried not to close the channels of dialogue with influential representatives of the presidential administration. This balance collapsed after Kryvonos was elected as the new head. According to several NV sources in NABU among former employees and anti-corruption public structures, hes not an independent leader but relies entirely on two deputies in making decisions. Those would be Uglava and Polina Lysenko, who have their own history of contacts with the government and their views on NABUs independence. Read also: NABU seizes $18 million on accounts of Kolomoisky-related firm NV spoke with a dozen former and current NABU employees, as well as experts from anti-corruption organizations to find out what is happening with NABU, which has an annual budget of UAH 1.2 billion ($32.8 million) and considerable operational capabilities. The information obtained can be boiled down to five threats, which could turn NABU from an independent body into an arm of the executive, and the fight against corruption into a presidential political monopoly. Informal head Uglava worked in the Georgian Prosecutors Office for almost 20 years and held the post of deputy chief prosecutor (2009-2012). After arriving in Ukraine in 2014, together with former Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvilis team, he started working on improving the legislation related to NABU duties. In the same year, he obtained Ukrainian citizenship, and a year later he took his current post as NABUs first deputy head. Uglava chose to remain a non-public NABU official. He doesnt give extensive interviews and, apparently, had no ambition to lead the agency himself. Uglava believes a Ukrainian should lead NABU; thats why he didnt apply for the competition [for NABU head], one of his subordinates told NV. Instead, Uglava made considerable efforts to increase Kryvonos chances of passing the competitive selection process, according to several NV sources who followed the competition. At the same time, they dont want to voice these facts on their own behalf to avoid conflict with NABU. However, NABU itself doesnt seem to see a problem in the fact that the most influential figure in the organization is an official who is not subject to the principles of rotation and competitive selection. One of the agencys top representatives, commenting on Uglavas turning into NABUs informal head, said: Whats the problem that he [Uglava] is helping [Kryvonos]? David Arakhamia, political influence of the Presidents Office, and Polina Lysenko GR [government relations] in NABU Former NABU head Sytnyk calculated that government representatives had made 35 attempts to deprive the agency of its powers during his seven years of leadership, and the political pressure continued continuously. In turn, incumbent NABU head Kryvonos has had no complaints about the authorities for six months. What has changed? Do top officials and pro-government oligarchs agree themselves to become participants in NABU investigations? Or are the authorities and NABU leadership consulting about who will be charged with corruption? NV learned of at least two examples that may indicate, so to speak, in-depth communication between the ruling party and NABU. The first episode concerns the alleged communication between Arakhamia, head of the ruling Servant of the People parliamentary party, with NABU leadership. A source in the anti-corruption sector told NV that Uglava is in regular contact with Arakhamia. According to his data, Uglava could warn the politician about the drafting of charges against top government officials. For example, against former governor of the National Bank of Ukraine, Kyrylo Shevchenko. Apparently, this allowed Shevchenko to leave the country in advance and avoid arrest. Read also: Court sets new bail for Kolomoisky at $103 million In response to NVs request to comment on his contacts with NABU first deputy head, Arakhamia said that he was familiar with Uglava even before entering politics, but never discussed anti-corruption investigations with him. In a comment to NV, Uglava denied any communication with the authorities regarding the agencys procedural actions and rejected contacts with Arakhamia regarding charges against Shevchenko. The second episode concerned charges against Ukrainian oligarch Ihor Kolomoisky. NABU detectives have been investigating his involvement in the seizure of PrivatBank funds for several years. Finally, on Sept. 7, Kolomoisky and other accomplices were charged with illegally withdrawing over UAH 9 billion ($246.1 million) from the now-nationalized bank. However, Kolomoisky, who supported President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the past, has not yet fallen into NABUs hands. The agency was bypassed by another special service, completely controlled by the Presidents Office the SBU security service. How did that happen? As NV learned from sources close to non-government organizations cooperating with NABU on anti-corruption, some presidential representatives could turn to Kryvonos with a request to postpone the processing of charges against Kolomoisky for a week. Meanwhile, the SBU and the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine (ESB), which are controlled by the president, have themselves charged Kolomoisky. The oligarch is currently in an SBU detention center. I and my deputies didnt receive any instructions or hints regarding the postponement of charges against the specified person, Kryvonos told NV. But there is another sign of increased interaction between NABU and the Presidents Office. In late April, Lysenko returned to NABU. She immediately took the top post of deputy head. Lysenko already worked in NABU for four years (20152019) but held a low-level administrative position. Half a year before her career jump at NABU (in November 2022), Lysenko appeared at meetings in the Presidents Office dedicated to bringing Ukraine closer to membership in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Working Group on Bribery. These meetings were chaired by Andriy Yermak, the head of the Presidents Office. He called on the groups members to speed up the bureaucratic processes for joining the OECD. Lysenko then reported to Yermak about drafting the necessary documents. Read also: Oligarch Kolomoisky faces new fraud charges in PrivatBank case If you talk to Lysenko in private, you can notice that the name Andriy Borysovych [Yermak] is always on her lips, another source said. Lysenkos appointment to NABU seemed to be synchronized with the Presidents Office, because a few days before, Zelenskyy signed a decree to dismiss her from the Center for Countering Disinformation at the National Security and Defense Council, where she worked for several months before going on maternity leave. Lysenko is experienced in departmental intrigues, a source told NV. Sytnyk, when he found out in 2019 that she encouraged detectives to file disciplinary proceedings against chief detective [Andriy] Kaluzhynskyi, was so crossed that he asked Uglava to fire her immediately. In a comment to NV, Lysenko told a different version of why she had left NABU for the first time. I was transferred to the Prosecutor Generals Office to the position of head of the international cooperation and asset recovery department, which was a significant promotion for me. I was invited to work by [former Prosecutor General Ruslan] Ryaboshapka and [Vitaliy] Kasko, his first deputy, she said. Read also: NABU's new director faces questions of independence amid ties to government According to several sources among former NABU employees and now close to it, Lysenko has a destructive influence on the NABUs staff: she favors some employees over others. This leads to tension in the agency and resentment towards the new leadership. Lysenkos style of business communication was publicly criticized in an interview with NV by Olha Komarova, a former employee of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty who won the competition for the position of deputy head of the NABUs external communications department. She described her conversation with the deputy head as follows: She immediately started talking in a very patronizing tone. It was the talk of a person who wants to show her power. It wasnt a direct request to give up, but I take it as pressure to give up. She said that I wont work in NABU, and there are two options how it will happen. Either the head simply wont sign the appointment, or I will be appointed and fired a day later because this position will be removed due to reorganization. The conflict ended with the position being removed. Read also: Former anti-graft agency chief on Ukraines anti-corruption system interview Even before her official appointment as NABU deputy head, Lysenko probably regularly visited the agency during non-working hours and could influence its activities, a former NABU employee told NV. However, in a comment to NV, Lysenko emphasized that according to her duties at NABU, she is engaged in cooperation with international partners, communication and GR. I dont have access to procedural information, about the proceedings, she said, adding that all communication with representatives of the Presidents Office takes place exclusively within the OECD Working Group, which includes government representatives, namely the head of the Verkhovna Rada Anti-Corruption Committee Anastasia Radina and the head of the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO), Oleksandr Klymenko. I have been involved in this project since last year, moreover, Im one of those who are driving this topic. I believe that the topic of combating international bribery is important for the country, especially in the context of future recovery. Were working on a wide range of tasks, and the main one is the synchronization of our legislation with the standards of the OECD Working Group. Displacing those disobedient under the guise of optimization A former NABU employee told NV that after taking office, Kryvonos promised the NABUs staff in personal conversations not to change the organizations structure until the audit by international partners was completed. The mission of a trio of auditors hired by the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine has been going on at NABU for several months. The agencys updated development strategy should be adopted based on this assessment. Read also: NABU candidate Komarova shares details of hiring scandal at anti-corruption body NABU told NV that the audit is being carried out at its own request, while the results are expected in late September. However, the agency did not specify whether the results will be published. Without waiting for the completion of the audit, Kryvonos decided to fire about three dozen employees. He called it staff optimization. We reduced the number of administrative positions and freed about 20 vacancies for departments involved in the investigation of crimes, created a detective department, which will be based in the city of Dnipro, Kryvonos told the Ukrinform news agency. NABUs response to NVs request states: 35 people have left NABU since March 2023, while 34 employees have been appointed to NABU under the new leadership, including analysts, technical specialists, employees of the internal control service and the press service. Eight new detectives appeared in NABU, but the competition for these positions was announced even before Kryvonos. The exodus of experienced detectives Eleven detectives were among several dozen former employees who left NABU after the change in management. NABU explained that five detectives had left the agency due to retirement age or health problems, while four were appointed to other law enforcement agencies. One person resigned after winning the competition for the post of SAPO prosecutor, and another one left by mutual agreement. It is Olena Krolovetska, former head of the Second Division of Detectives, who left NABU by agreement of the parties in May. Ruslan Gabrielyan, Krolovetskas subordinate, is the winner of the competition in SAPO. They dealt with the most high-profile cases in NABU, including the most influential representatives of the power vertical, such as judge Pavlo Vovk, deputy head of the Presidents Office Oleh Tatarov, etc. Read also: NABU charges ruling party MP over accepting a bribe How did it happen that, freeing up places for detectives, the new management lost about a dozen specialists, including top-level ones? Krolovetska and Gabrielyan didnt respond to NVs request for details of their dismissal. According to Kryvonos, Krolovetska left for personal reasons. Currently, she has resumed work at Kucheruk and Partners, a law firm of her friend Yuriy Kucheruk. Although Gabrielyan won the competition in SAPO, he wouldnt be able to take this position as he had mobilized in the Armed Forces of Ukraine since the beginning of Russias full-scale invasion. Later, he returned to work as a detective during business trips. However, now he apparently has no desire to return to NABU on any terms. According to the unofficial version, which several sources told NV, several detectives left NABU due to a conflict with the new management. What started this conflict? The most likely reason is the official investigation launched in April against five top NABU detectives, including Kaluzhynskyi, Krolovetska, Gabrielyan, and two more of their colleagues. Further optimization and the threat of Kaluzhynskyis dismissal Olena Shcherban from the Anti-Corruption Action Center (AntAC) watchdog in a comment to NV said that shes receiving signals about NABUs plans for further reorganization of the structure. She emphasized that AntAC was closely monitoring these processes and would like the reorganization models to be discussed with civil society, especially with those who were involved in NABUs creation and the selection of the first waves of detectives. Read also: NABU freezes Kolomoiskys assets Practice has shown that public support, which is possible only under conditions of transparency and openness, is the basis of NABUs capabilities and independence. These traditions must not change, the expert said. At the same time, NABU detectives themselves indicate informally that the possible reorganization may directly affect detective units. The most threatening thing in this context is that Kaluzhynskyi, as the head of all detective units, may not find a place in the new structure. After all, his position will turn out to be an extra link between the detectives and Uglava. In response to NVs question regarding further reorganization, NABU noted they dont have such plans, adding that Kaluzhynskyi is already directly subordinate to Uglava under order No. 34 of March 7, 2023. Mark Savchuk, the head of the Public Council under NABU, told NV that Kryvonos still needs to earn the teams trust. This can be achieved by two things. First, by making political decisions: to demonstrate to the team that hes interested in rooting out the biggest corruption. And thereby signaling to the detectives that NABU remains on its previous positions. Secondly, it concerns the agencys inner workings: the head must show resolve and stop frankly fabricated internal investigation cases produced by the internal control department. Currently, NABU has almost 40 vacancies for detectives and their managers. Competitions are underway. Immediately after the completion of his seven-year term, Sytnyk advised the public to follow two markers that would indicate that NABU is losing its independence in its activities. Read also: Defense overhaul continues in Ukraine under new minister Umerov as government ousts deputy team The first is an attempt to destroy the personnel backbone by changing the agencys structure. This is already happening. The appointment of more than two NABU deputy heads can be the second marker, Sytnyk believes. Currently, there are already three of them: Uglava, Lysenko, and Tetiana Varvarska. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine A bear broke into a homeowners garage Thursday night in North Naples, Florida and the animal came with an appetite. Konrad Umpenhour told NBC-2 that he forgot to close the garage door after letting his dogs out on the patio. READ MORE: Three-legged bear barges into Florida home When he went to shut it remotely from his phone, he got a notification. It gave me an error telling me something was wrong, he said. And I was like, What possibly could that be? The homes Blink security cam footage shows the beast moseying on in. After dining and dashing, it left quite the mess. A Florida black bear walked inside a family's garage, opened their freezer, and helped himself to vegan ice cream pic.twitter.com/GJaNGpaKbf Madison Monroe Adams (@madmonroeadams) September 15, 2023 Umpenhour found the bottom freezer door open, the ground littered with packages, including hamburger patties, pizza, bread and snacks. But the bear had a hankering for something less savory. The animal knocked open the freezer, grabbed a container of coffee flavored vegan ice cream with boba, and licked it up. Its from Trader Joes, Umpenhour said. Super good apparently really good. READ MORE: See bears brawl in Florida homeowners yard To avoid an unwanted visitor such as this one, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission advises folks to secure all attractants such as garbage in trash bins, remove any food from your yard (even ripe fruit on trees) and install electric fences around your garden. If you see someone feeding bears, call the agencys Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922. The Cultural Landscape of Old Tea Forests of the Jingmai Mountain in Pu'er gained the World Heritage Site status at the ongoing 45th session of the World Heritage Committee of UNESCO in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Sunday, becoming China's 57th entry to the list and the first World Heritage Site related to tea. A village on Jingmai Mountain in Pu'er, Yunnan province, is seen in this photo taken on Aug 3. The region is well known for its old tea trees and early use of tea resources. Jiang Wenyao / Xinhua The newly named heritage site, located in Lancang Lahu autonomous county in Pu'er, Yunnan province, comprises five large-scale, well-preserved old tea forests, which stand 1,250 to 1,500 meters above the sea level; three protective barrier forests; and nine ancient villages in the old tea forests, which are mainly inhabited by Blang and Dai ethnic groups. The cultural landscape was jointly created by the ancestors of the Blang people who immigrated to the Jingmai Mountain in the 10th century AD and later discovered and domesticated wild tea trees and the indigenous Dai people. On the basis of long-standing practices, local people developed the understory growing technique, which involves allowing shrubs or trees that are small and sufficiently shade-tolerant to thrive under the canopies of taller trees. The local people created ideal light conditions for growing tea trees, while preventing insect infestation through a well-preserved forest ecosystem, thereby producing quality organic tea leaves without the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers. During its 45th session, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee noted that the region bears "an exceptional testimony to the understory tea cultivation traditions", which have enabled the "development of a complementary spatial distribution of different land uses, providing ecosystems and microclimates that support both the cultivation of old tea forests and the well-being of communities residing in this organically evolved cultural landscape". The committee said the cultural landscape is an outstanding example of a sustainable land-use system based on the combination of horizontal and vertical land-use patterns. "This land-use system permits the complementary use of natural resources in the mountainous environment of Jingmai Mountain and represents an exceptional example of a human interaction by Blang and Dai peoples with a challenging environment." Li Qun, director of the National Cultural Heritage Administration, pledged in Riyadh that China will strengthen efforts to better supervise the heritage site, address climate change challenges, guide local communities to join protection programs and regulate tourism to ensure that the lasting, outstanding and universal values of the old tea forests are inherited. "We will also promote international exchanges and cooperation, and take more responsibilities in protecting and managing World Heritage Sites," Li said. Chen Yaohua, director of Peking University's World Heritage Research Center, said the tea growing technique on the Jingmai Mountain is quite unique at a time when large-scale terraced tea plantations play a dominant role in the world. It represents the ecological ethics and wisdom that can inspire sustainable development in the world today, said Chen, who has led studies on the site for the past 12 years. According to his research, about 10 percent of the tea trees on the mountain are at least 100 years old, with the oldest dating back more than 300 years. Growing tea contributes to over 90 percent of the income of the indigenous communities, who maintain an ancient governance system to protect the site. The system includes traditional festivals and ceremonies related to the ancestral belief that spirits live in the tea forests as well as in the local flora and fauna. In addition, the local government of Pu'er and the Yunnan provincial authorities released three laws and seven regulations focusing on protection of the cultural landscape on the Jingmai Mountain. Core zone of the World Heritage Site covers about 72 square kilometers on the mountain. The buffer zone spreads over about 120 sq km. The cultural landscape of old tea forests was included on China's tentative list for seeking world heritage status in 2012. Last month, the Florida Department of Education revealed that more than 300 books had been removed from public school shelves in the state during the 2022-2023 school year. Under the pretense of keeping kids safe and preserving parental rights, Florida officials and conservative activists have spread misinformation about teachers and school libraries, claiming that any and all books that deal with gender or sexuality are inappropriate or pornographic. Fueled by a surge in conservative culture wars and a package of education laws targeting instruction on gender and sexuality, there have been a deluge of book challenges from parents and residents in Florida. The list of books no longer available to Florida students, which according to NBC News was quietly released late last month, is broken down by county, and tallies the number of book challenges as well as the books that were ultimately removed. The vast majority of books are concentrated in Clay County, in the northeastern part of the state, where 177 titles were removed. There, infamous right-wing activist Bruce Freidman has led the charge in getting books pulled from the shelves. Behind Clay was Martin County, in southeastern Florida, which had 98 books removed. Within the list of hundreds of books declared no longer acceptable, there are some familiar targets, such as This Book Is Gay by Juno Dawson, a guidebook for young LGBTQ+ people, and Gender Queer, a memoir by Maia Kobabe. These have been under fire for years from conservative groups waging a campaign against the LGBTQ+ community and smearing them as child abusers and predators. But there were some unexpected bans as well. Anne Franks Diary: The Graphic Adaptation, by Ari Folman, was removed from a high school in Indian River County after a parent complained about the books sexual content. In Wakulla County, the only book removed was Little Rock Nine by Marshall Poe. Poes novel is about two boys, one Black and one white, who are best friends in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1957 the year the city was forced to desegregate its schools and President Dwight Eisenhower sent in federal troops to do so. Though the novel depicts an event of monumental significance in American history, a parent complained to her childs elementary school because the book has profanity in it. These types of parents are actually rare. Polling has shown that parents are largely against banning books. But the challenges keep coming, and Florida shows no signs of slowing down. Earlier this year, Gov. Ron DeSantis who is seeking the Republican presidential nomination on a platform to Make America Florida signed into law HB 1069, a measure that restricts sexual and health education in the classroom and expands book ban policies even further. The law is in effect for this school year. Related... Detroit executives have Tesla in mind as they reject the UAW's big demands. The labor cost gap between the Detroit 3 and Tesla is already staggering. Tesla is the "clear winner" in the UAW strike, one analyst said. Tesla is at the heart of the Detroit 3's resistance to the United Auto Workers union's demands for hefty pay increases. The UAW launched a first wave of targeted strikes last week after months of negotiations for new labor contracts with Ford, GM, and Jeep-owner Stellantis. The Detroit 3 are reluctant to give in to the union's demands for 40% pay increases and shorter work weeks, saying such a hit to their labor costs would be catastrophic . So far, the UAW has only walked out of three final assembly factories in Michigan, Ohio, and Missouri. This targeted work stoppage is costing the union some $6.5 million per week, according to estimates from Deutsche Bank, leaving plenty in its $825 million strike fund coffers should the union expand the strike as negotiations heat up. The automakers always go into their quadrennial contract negotiations with the UAW with the goal of remaining "competitive" with other companies that do not use union labor. In the past, this competitiveness has been focused on foreign automakers like Toyota and Honda, but in this round of talks, Tesla has taken center stage. The labor cost gap between the Detroit 3 and Tesla is already staggering. Tesla spends about $45 an hour on labor (this cost combines hourly wages and benefits), while Ford, GM, and Stellantis are currently spending about $66 an hour on their labor, according to industry analysts. If the UAW gets its way on pay increases and things like reviving pensions, Wells Fargo has estimated that the Detroit 3's hourly labor costs could more than double to $136 an hour. As Detroit looks to take more of a leadership role in the automotive industry's shift to electric vehicles, one analyst has said the UAW strike is "a potential nightmare situation for GM and Ford." How Tesla benefits from the UAW strike Tesla, which does not use union labor, will have an immediate advantage over its domestic competitors by way of simply continuing to churn out vehicles while Ford and GM deal with strike-related bottlenecks. But Elon Musk's electric car company has even more to gain in the long-term, though, if his competitors' manufacturing math equation changes drastically. Already Tesla has been able to be more nimble on pricing this year, igniting a price war that has chipped away at the value of already unprofitable EVs like Ford's Mustang Mach-E . Meanwhile, Tesla has been able to continually churn healthy profits while slashing prices over and over. Any rise in labor costs for Ford and GM will inevitably raise the prices of their electric cars, further extending the timeline to profitability for this segment, analysts say. "The clear winner in this Game of Thrones Battle between the UAW vs. GM/Ford is Musk and Tesla," Wedbush analyst Dan Ives wrote in a note on the first day of the UAW strike. "Its biggest potential EV 313 competitors now face mounting costs/complexities in the years ahead depending on how this ultimately plays out." Read the original article on Business Insider The Russian troops cleared minefields in front of platoon strongholds in Kherson Oblast with rocket artillery at the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Source: Major General Andrii Sokolov, who at the beginning of the invasion was Deputy Commander of the Operational Command Pivden (South) and was in charge of the Pivden grouping of troops, in an interview with Ukrainska Pravda Details: Sokolov said he met the first day of the war at his command post in front of a monitor with a Virage Tablet, a programme that tracks all aircraft's flights nearby. Along with the chief of air defence and the operational officer on duty, he observed a massive take-off of Russian aircraft in Crimea at around 04:00-05:00 on 24 February 2022. The warplanes first circled over the territory of Crimea. There was initially hope that the Russian aircraft would just fly and land again, but they flew over the Azov and Black Seas and began launching missiles en masse. First, there was a missile attack on almost all locations of Ukrainian units, control points, launching positions and air defence control points, and on the airfield in Melitopol. Nearly all military facilities located in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia oblasts were targeted. Afterwards, there were reports from the commander of the 137th battalion, Colonel Vadym Rymarenko, saying that the Russians had started a barrage of fire and artillery bombardment of Ukrainian forward positions at Kalanchak and Chonhar checkpoints. This is how it all started. Quote: "However, there was a catch. Around 23rd [of February], we got information that the enemy might carry out provocative actions: they would target the Tytan plant themselves, then blame us for it, and it would be a casus belli (a reason to declare war) for them to start some kind of action against us. The first was a report from the commander of the 137th Battalion I recall this well that the enemy was not shooting on the positions themselves but was firing in front of our stronghold opposite the Tytan. At first, I thought this was precisely what was happening, that it was a provocation and they were targeting the plant. It was night, and the personnel were simply disoriented. Later, after analysing their actions, I realised they were using rocket artillery to clear our minefields in front of the platoon strongholds. And the second attack targeted our positions." Details: Sokolov believes that the Russian artillery was firing on minefields because they were deliberately clearing them of mines and making it easier for them to advance. "I have no doubt about it. I have been at the front since 2014. They have done this more than once. I'm sure that's exactly what they had done that time," he said. The Major General also stated that the crossings and bridges on the border with the occupied Crimea had been mined since 2014 and that attempts had been made to blow them up, but the Russians had countered with fire. However, the bridges across the Dnipro River to Kherson were not mined at all. 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! A former Kansas Capitol Police officer has lost his certification after getting a diversion agreement on criminal charges in Shawnee County District Court. Aaron Plum had his law enforcement certification revoked by the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers' Standards and Training. Plum was an employee of the Kansas Highway Patrol from June 5, 2017, to Dec. 6, 2022. "The Kansas Highway Patrol is unable to make any comments or give any statements regarding personnel matters," said Capt. Candice Breshears, a KHP spokesperson. Former Kansas Capitol Police officer Aaron Plum has lost his law enforcement certification after allegedly taking someone else's belongings at a bar. The agency did confirm Plum's employment dates and that he was part of KHP's Troop K, better known as the Capitol Police, among other limited personnel information that are public record under the Kansas Open Records Act. The KSCPOST punishment was tied to an incident that happened several months before Plum's employment with KHP ended. KHP officer was accused of taking someone's property The KSCPOST order, dated Aug. 16 but publicly released in September after the expiration of Plum's opportunity to request a hearing, was signed by Jefferson County Sheriff Jeff Herrig, the chair of the commission's investigative committee. The only redaction in the order is Plum's contact information. According to the order's statement of facts, Plum had been drinking and playing billiards at a bar on March 12, 2022. A person who was playing pool with Plum's friend left his jackets on a nearby table. The group left to shoot pool at a different bar, but the person declined to go. That person then attempted to close out his tab, but discovered his jackets and his debit card inside were missing. He then went to that other bar and asked Plum's friend if anyone had mistakenly picked up his jackets. The friend whispered that it may have been Plum. The confronted Plum, who denied taking the jackets. The friend identified Plum's vehicle, and the person saw his jackets on the front passenger seat. When he again confronted Plum, he initially denied it was his vehicle but eventually returned the jackets and said it was a dumb mistake. In addition to the two jackets and the debit card, Plum also took a cellphone and cigars. The person found out that Plum was a law enforcement officer and repeatedly asked for his badge number, which Plum refused to provide. The commission found that Plum's actions constituted a crime and his "conduct shows that he has failed to maintain good moral character sufficient to warrant the public trust in him as a law enforcement officer." Aaron Plum got a diversion from criminal charges Plum was charged May 23, 2022, in Shawnee County District Court with one misdemeanor count of criminal deprivation of property. The criminal complaint alleges Plum intended to temporarily deprive the victim of a jacket, cellphone and credit card. The charge is different from theft, which requires and intent to permanently deprive someone of their property. Court records indicate the Topeka Police Department investigated. The county attorney's office and Plum, who represented himself, agreed to a diversion agreement filed with the court on May 31, 2023. The agreement requires Plum to pay $318 in various fees and abide by all laws plus the terms of the agreement for 12 months in order to have the charge dismissed. Deputy District Attorney Charles Kitt wrote the diversion agreement was "designed to assist the Defendant in becoming a productive member of the community and avoid any repetition of the conduct resulting in the charges contained herein." Jason Alatidd is a statehouse reporter for the Topeka Capital-Journal. He can be reached by email at jalatidd@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter @Jason_Alatidd. This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Kansas Capitol Police officer gets diversion for Shawnee County crime By Panarat Thepgumpanat BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thailand's former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra could be released on parole as early as late February, having already had an eight-year prison sentence commuted to one year following his return from self-exile, a senior corrections official said on Monday. Thailand's most famous politician made a dramatic homecoming last month, 15 years after he entered self-exile, having been ousted by a military coup in 2006. While abroad, Thaksin was found guilty in absentia in three cases involving abuse of power, conflict of interest and malfeasance. His return to Thailand coincided with emergence of his ally Srettha Thavisin as the country's new prime minister, following months of uncertainty in the wake of an election in May that resulted in defeat for the ruling pro-military party. Parties aligned with Thaksin have won every election since 2001 up until this year's poll when the Pheu Thai, the party backed by his family, came second. The telecommunications billionaire, whose brash personality and populist policies appealed to poorer Thais, clashed with the country's old money elites and royalist military, which also ousted his sister's government in 2014. There was speculation that Thaksin reached some deal with his old foes, after the pro-military parties gave the Pheu Thai candidate Srettha their backing to form a new government. Thaksin and Srettha deny this. On his first night in Thailand, Thaksin was transferred to a police hospital with chest pains and high blood pressure where is currently being treated. Days later, King Maha Vajiralongkorn commuted his eight-year sentence to one year, but he could be released sooner. "After serving six months of his sentence, Thaksin will be eligible for parole for prisoners older than 70 or those who are ill," Corrections Department Deputy Director General Sitthi Sutivong, told Reuters. The corrections department makes an assessment for each case and there is no petition process for parole in these cases, he said. The former prime minister's treatment in hospital is at the discretion of medical professionals and does not have a time limit, Sitthi added. (Reporting by Panarat Thepgumpanat, Chayut Setboonsarng, Edited by Simon Cameron-Moore) The Canyon County Sheriffs Office and Sheriff Kieran Donahue have agreed that the county will pay a former employee $425,000 after she sued them for harassment and gender discrimination. Aleshea Boals, a former Canyon County victim witness coordinator, sued the sheriff and his office last year after she left the department in January 2022. She said she endured harassment and discrimination from her supervisors and Donahue based on her gender, and was retaliated against for reporting gender discrimination and illegal activity about how deputies treated female victims. As part of the settlement, which was announced Monday in a news release from Boals lawyers, the Sheriffs Office also agreed to secure funding to conduct additional victim-services training in Canyon County. The Sheriffs Office did not immediately comment on the settlement after an email from the Idaho Statesman. The Sheriffs Office and Donahue were represented in court by Bruce Castleton of Castleton Law in Boise. According to court documents, the office and Donahue deny each and every allegation in Boals complaint. Boals created the Canyon County Victim Witness Unit in 2006 and worked as a coordinator for 15 years. Victim-witness coordinators have a unique position in the criminal justice system, Boals said in the release. They are the dedicated individuals walking crime victims through their darkest days. I love my field, and I loved my job at CCSO (Canyon County Sheriffs Office). I was proud of the victim services provided by CCSO, and in my 15 years there, I had rarely seen a victim being mistreated. Former Canyon County Victim Witness Coordinator Aleshea Boals Boals said that in 2020, she noticed female victims were being mistreated, called liars and unfairly interrogated, mostly by a single sheriffs detective. This mistreatment was against both the Idaho Constitution and Idaho statute, and I reported it to my superiors, Boals said. I thought that would be the end of it, but the mistreatment of female victims continued, and the detective who was responsible for most of the mistreatment was promoted. In her lawsuit, Boals said there was at least one circumstance where the detective, Mark Taylor, chose not to believe a victim who said she had been raped by someone she knew, despite having defensive wounds. Taylor allegedly yelled at the victim for supposedly lying, and he told her that he was closing her case because her vagina was too small to have been raped. The victim left the interview in tears, and she refused to participate further in the investigation and prosecution of her case, according to the lawsuit. In Castletons response to Boals complaint, he wrote that during one investigation Detective Taylor did not believe a victims account of an alleged sexual assault based on the information presented to him. Taylor was employed by the sheriffs office as of June 2023 according to records obtained by the Statesman. Castleton did not immediately respond to an email or phone call request for comment from himself or Taylor. Boals said she tried to get her supervisors involved, but they began to retaliate against her by setting limitations on her that inhibited her ability to work with victims. They also harassed and discriminated against her, the lawsuit said. After several months of this, I realized that CCSO would continue to mistreat female victims and would continue to retaliate against me, Boals said in the release. After I left CCSO, I knew that the only chance I had to ensure that female victims are treated with dignity and respect was to file my lawsuit. I could not ask a victim to have the courage to come forward and face their abuser if I did not have the courage to stand up for the victim myself. The Boise law firm Strindberg Scholnick Birch Hallam Harstad Thorne represented Boals. The firms statement said the lawyers were honored to have represented Ms. Boals as she continues to strive for victims rights in Idaho. District Court Judge Amanda Brailsford accepted the settlement on Tuesday, according to court documents. Defeated county leader to incumbents: You violated law. Incumbent: I dont need your tutoring Boise police, fire unions wont back McLean for re-election. What they and she say South Bend Police Chief Scott Ruszkowski speaks to reporters in this video from the South Bend Police Department YouTube page after Saturday nights shooting incident where four people were shot in a large exchange of gunfire near Phillippa and Huron streets on the citys west side. SOUTH BEND Four people were shot Saturday night in what police are saying was hundreds of shots fired in the area along Philippa and Huron Streets on the city's west side. South Bend Police Chief Scott Ruszkowski said all four people were believed to have non-life-threatening wounds. The Saturday incident follows the report of one person shot on Friday night. In addition to the injuries to the four people, cars, homes and businesses were damaged by the gunfire, Ruszkowski said. More: Police: 130 rounds shot at West Washington Street party attended by high schoolers The shooting involved several scenes in an area spanning multiple blocks around the Philippa-Huron corridor. Ruszkowski told reporters at the scene he saw 300 to 500 people along streets and alleys along Western Avenue, and officers still were hearing shots being fired when they approached the area Saturday night. "We've had multiple vehicles shot up. We've had multiple houses shot up," Ruszkowski said. "In essence, bullets flying through houses and neighborhoods four people shot on top of that." The shooting occurred as Mexican Independence Day festivities were being held in the area with hundreds in attendance. More: Mexican Independence Day fiesta returns with music, food to South Bend Police were aware of the celebration that was planned for the west side. Ruszkowski said officers did walkthroughs where the bulk of the celebrations were taking place near the Marycrest building on Western Avenue and at other planned festivities. He said, however, the area where the gunshots occurred was not part of those planned activities. The South Bend Police Departments Violent Crimes Unit has taken over the investigation. Ruszkowski said people have cooperated in the investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact Michiana Crime Stoppers to share anonymous tips either by calling 574-288-STOP or visiting p3tips.com/203. Because this is a firearms crime, anonymous tips that lead to the solving of the crime or an arrest receive an enhanced reward of up to $1,000. Email Tribune staff writer Greg Swiercz at gswiercz@sbtinfo.com. This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Four shot in gathering on South Bend's west side Republican presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy was asked on Fox News to explain the point of his 2024 campaign, and to respond to complaints that he is annoying. President Trump has widened his commanding lead I mean, at 60% now, Fox News Sunday anchor Shannon Bream told the biotech entrepreneur in an interview this weekend. Many analysts say everybody else is just sort of playing for second place. Youve said you would not accept the vice presidential spot. So whats the point of your campaign now? Ramaswamy said he wants to take the America First agenda even further than Donald Trump did and reunite the country. I cant do that from a number two position or a Cabinet role, he said. First question from Fox's Shannon Bream to 2024 GOP candidate Vivek Ramaswamy: "Trump has widened his commanding lead I mean, at 60% now ... You said you would not accept the VP spot, soooo what's the point of your campaign now?" pic.twitter.com/2oeNgJdvah The Recount (@therecount) September 17, 2023 Bream noted that even as Ramaswamys national profile is growing, our polling also shows your unfavorables are up. One recent opinion piece puts it this way: Of all the descriptors attached to Vivek Ramaswamy, the 38-year-old political tyro enjoying a bizarre surge in the Republican primary race for second place, the most common one seems to be annoying, she said, citing an Aug. 28 New York Times piece by Michelle Goldberg. Ramaswamy brushed it off, arguing that many people are annoyed by my rise and believe that a 38-year-old is too young to be U.S. president. Thomas Jefferson was 33 years old when he wrote the U.S. Declaration of Independence, he said. He also invented the swivel chair while he was at it, by the way. 2024 GOP candidate Vivek Ramaswamy attempts to answer why people think he's "annoying": pic.twitter.com/l6fxyjBIfx The Recount (@therecount) September 17, 2023 Goldbergs Times piece, titled Vivek Ramaswamy Is Very Annoying. Its Why Hes Surging in the Polls, highlighted quotes from several political commentators. CNNs S.E. Cupp called Ramaswamy Obnoxious. Annoying. Disrespectful. Inexperienced. Conspiratorial. A Republican strategist told Politico the candidates shtick got to be annoying during the first GOP primary debate. And Josh Barro, a writer who attended Harvard at the same time as Ramaswamy, published an investigation into what makes Vivek so annoying. Ramaswamys extreme and unconventional views, his out-there persona and his resolute support of former President Donald Trump have seen him surge to unexpected prominence in the primary race, outpacing many political veterans. Hes placed third behind Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) in many polls. Trump, who leads the pack by an enormous margin, has praised the younger candidate and said hes open to considering him as a running mate. Ramaswamy, however, has said hes not interested. Related... Over the weekend, a few Republican members from both the conservative House Freedom Caucus and the moderate Main Street Caucus cut a deal on a short-term government funding bill to avert a shutdown at the end of September. The 165-page measure keeping the government funded for a month would include most of House Republicans border security bill and make a roughly 8 percent cut to government spending (except for defense, veterans, and disaster relief). It includes none of the additional funding for disaster relief and Ukraine aid that the Biden administration has requested. House leaders hope to pass it on Thursday. The three co-authors from the Freedom Caucus include its chairman, Pennsylvania Rep. Scott Perry, as well as Florida Rep. Byron Donalds and Texas Rep. Chip Roy. These men have sterling conservative reputations within the Freedom Caucus, so getting support from the other Freedom Caucus hard-asses should be no proble NO Rep. Eli Crane (@RepEliCrane) September 18, 2023 Gah! .@RepMattGaetz tell me This bill is a gift to Joe Biden. Im opposed. Juliegrace Brufke (@juliegraceb) September 18, 2023 Yeesh! In case it wasnt clear, Im a HARD NO on the CR. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (@RepLuna) September 18, 2023 Blergh. As of early Monday afternoon, there were around a dozen House conservatives openly opposed to the bill. Just how dedicated are some members of this hard no squad? Florida Rep. Anna Paulina Luna just had a baby and is recovering from fever and infection but will fly to vote no because I know how important this is. Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene was booted from the Freedom Caucus earlier this year, but shes still a NO! in part because the bill would continue to fund special counsel Jack Smiths office. This is a common sentiment among the holdouts. Indiana Rep. Victoria Spartz, who is not seeking reelection and is spending her remaining days in Congress getting mad, released a withering statement on Speaker Kevin McCarthy, saying, Real leadership takes courage and willingness to fight for the country, not for power and a picture on a wall. For some of these current noes, it could be posturing. (Probably not for Rep. Matt Gaetz, whos already talking about McCarthys final days as speaker and seems intent on ousting him.) They could be being obstinate to get a few more concessions like defunding Jack Smith or whatever other catnips out there, and then they could fall in line. It really doesnt matter whats put in the bill so long as it gets McCarthy 218 votes and kicks the can to the Senate. And it doesnt matter whats put in this bill because it is going nowhere. The Senate Democratic majority isnt going to accept an 8-percent cut to non-defense spending. Theyre not going to swallow Republicans border bill. A lot of Senate Republicans wont either. Should this bill somehow reach the Senate, then, the Senate will send it back to the House at regular spending levels with supplementary Ukraine aid and fresh disaster relief monies attached. Then, the Senate will jam McCarthy and House Republicans. The only benefit that passing this preliminary House bill would offer is a menu from which President Biden and the Senate can choose a bone to throw at McCarthy. A final compromise wont defund Jack Smith, for example. But perhaps it would bar him from entering any Subway sandwich shop in the District of Columbia, effectively starving the man. On Monday, McCarthy wasnt exuding confidence about the short-term bills passage. I dont know, he told reporters when asked whether the House can pass it. But this was something devised by bottom up. Lets see where well get to. Lets see! A Fresno man with three previous DUI convictions pleaded not guilty Monday to leaving the scene of an collision in northwest Fresno where, police say, he struck an unhoused woman and drove nearly 8 miles with her body lodged underneath. Shawn Ginder, 38, made his first court appearance since being charged in connection with the May 13, 2022, incident that killed 29-year-old Monique Contreraz. Contreraz, who is unhoused, was pushing a shopping cart and walking her dog Lucky near the intersection of Herndon and Milburn avenues when she was struck by Ginders Chevrolet Silverado truck. Police said Ginder did not stop until he reached the La Quinta Inn Hotel near Cornelia Avenue and Golden State Boulevard, about 8 miles away. Police were called to the area after receiving reports of suspicious behavior, but when they arrived Ginder had fled. He was arrested a day later by the Madera County Sheriffs Office after deputies found him hiding out in a three-story cabin at Bass Lake. Ginder suffered serious injuries after jumping out of the top floor to try and escape, the sheriffs office said. Ginder appeared to still be recovering from his injuries Monday. He sat in a wheelchair during his arraignment with his lawyer Dan Bacon at his side. Judge Samuel Dalesandro ordered Ginder back to court Nov. 28 for a pre-preliminary hearing. Shawn Ginder Defendent has prior DUI convictions Advocates for the unhoused have been critical of the Fresno County District Attorneys Office for not charging Ginder with a more serious crime, such as vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence. Senior Deputy District Attorney Dennis Lewis has said prosecutors chose a charge that they could prove beyond a reasonable doubt to a jury. If convicted of the current charge, plus a prior strike conviction, Ginder could be sent to prison for a maximum of eight years. Since 2006, Ginders criminal history includes convictions for three DUIs, resisting a police officer, driving without a drivers license, assault with a firearm and speeding. A tow truck drives a truck involved in a fatal hit-and-run out of an apartment complex on Friday, May 13, 2022. The driver of the truck hit and killed a 29-year-old woman, dragging her 8 miles through Fresno. People visit the 6th China Helicopter Exposition in north China's Tianjin Municipality, Sept. 14, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua] The 6th China Helicopter Exposition, concluding on Sunday, has served as a platform for fostering innovation, development and win-win cooperation. A raft of activities, such as exhibitions, forums, airshows, new product releases and business negotiations, took place during this four-day expo held in north China's Tianjin Municipality. Over 350 exhibitors, including many major global helicopter manufacturers, attended the expo, seeking lucrative business opportunities in China's aviation industry. During the expo, Airbus Helicopters, the European aircraft manufacturer, signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) for strategic cooperation with Wanjiang Financial Leasing Co., Ltd. According to the LOI, both parties will provide one-stop customized helicopter products and financing solutions for Chinese enterprise customers in general aviation, especially micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. This photo taken on Sept. 14, 2023 shows the signing ceremony of a Letter of Intent (LOI) for strategic cooperation between Airbus Helicopters and Wanjiang Financial Leasing Co., Ltd. at the 6th China Helicopter Exposition in north China's Tianjin. [Photo/Xinhua] Airbus Helicopters has been a key partner in the Chinese helicopter sector for over 50 years. Currently, there are more than 300 Airbus helicopters flying in China, serving more than 90 customers. According to a report released by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China Ltd. (AVIC), the total number of China's civil helicopters is expected to reach 1,449 by 2027 and exceed 2,000 by 2032. The rapid recovery and promising prospect of China's aviation market have ignited a strong desire among global helicopter manufacturers and suppliers to forge collaborations with their Chinese counterparts. Alexander Tarasov, deputy CEO and head of design of the National Helicopter Center, Russian Helicopters, said he is interested in different Chinese components. "We would like to apply Chinese components to our helicopters. We want to expand our business with Chinese partners." China's Fenglei aerobatic team performs at the opening ceremony of the 6th China Helicopter Exposition in north China's Tianjin Municipality Sept. 14, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua] Diverse exhibits featuring technologies such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality and human-machine interaction were also showcased during the expo, with a total of 65 helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles put on display. Sunkiss Matherm is a French company manufacturing equipment for drying system, which is needed in making aircraft. "I'm looking for more Chinese customers. This expo gives me bright ideas of identifying who is who and what to do and to expand my business with Chinese potential customers," said Herve Vigier, general manager of the company. A Republican billionaire megadonor who used to be one of Ron DeSantis s biggest financial backers has yet to say whether he will donate to the Florida governor during the presidential primary. Hedge fund CEO Ken Griffin told CNBC, in an interview that will air Monday night, that he is disappointed with all of the Republican candidates and has not decided which one he will back. Griffin highlighted DeSantis in particular. I dont know his strategy, Griffin said. Its not clear to me what voter base he is intending to appeal to. Griffin was DeSantiss biggest donor during the 2022 election, giving $5 million to his gubernatorial reelection campaign. Griffin also repeatedly said he would love to see DeSantis run for president in 2024. But now hes suddenly changed his mind. One of Griffins biggest issues is DeSantiss battle with Disney. The ongoing battle with Disney, I think, is pointless, Griffin said. It doesnt reflect well on the ethos of Florida. DeSantis has been locked in a bizarre and increasingly ridiculous battle with Disney for more than a year. When the companys then chairman condemned DeSantiss Dont Say Gay law last year, DeSantis retaliated by stripping the park of its autonomous governing powers and installing a leadership board of his own allies. Disney sued DeSantis in April, alleging that he weaponized the government against the companys free speech rightsand the lawsuit cites extensively from DeSantiss own memoir. The two parties continue to engage in weird legal tit for tats. Griffin also told CNBC that he would rather both Republicans and Democrats have younger candidates to put forward. If that were the case, wed have a debate around ideas and principles and policies to make this a great nation, he said. Were not having that dialogue right now. Griffin was the third-biggest individual political donor in the country in 2022, having given a total of $71,050,000 to exclusively conservative causes, according to OpenSecrets. The 2022 elections were the most expensive midterms ever, as billionaires such as Griffin rushed to exert influence over the outcomes. Griffin actually was one of Barack Obamas biggest fundraisers when he first ran for election in 2008. But by 2012, Griffin had flipped, transferring his vote and his money to thenRepublican nominee Mitt Romney. He alleged the Obama administration had embraced class warfare as being politically expedient and argued that wealthy people had insufficient influence in politics. Those who have enjoyed the benefits of our system more than ever now owe a duty to protect the system that has created the greatest nation on this planet, Griffin told the Chicago Tribune in 2012. This article has been updated. Florida State Universitys march to the nations Top 15 public universities took a few steps back in the latest U.S. News & World Reports 2023-2024 Best Colleges" rankings. After changes to the media company's methodology, FSU fell four spots to No. 23, tied with the University of Minnesota Twin Cities and the College of William & Mary. FSU had been ranked in the Top 20 for four consecutive years where it was No. 19 last year, tied with the University of Maryland, the University of Washington and Rutgers. The slip comes despite FSU improving in each of the categories measured in the 2022 rankings. In addition, FSU had its highest-ever ranking in the overall list of public and private national universities at No. 53 tied with Case Western Reserve University, Northeastern University, University of Minnesota Twin Cities and William & Mary which is up two spots from last year. FSU ranking in 2022: U.S. News & World Report ranks Florida State University in Top 20 for 4th consecutive year Florida State President Richard McCullough speaks to Seminole fans in Capitol courtyard for FSU Day at the Capitol on Tuesday, March 21, 2023. In an interview, FSU President Richard McCullough told the Tallahassee Democrat FSU's fall was odd but also emblematic of a kind of rankings chaos in the higher education industry. I think its a wake-up call in terms of the outside worlds dependence on these rankings as a measure of quality, McCullough said. The Wall Street Journal and Niche also have their own rankings with vastly different results. Niche, which was founded in 2002, ranked Florida State No. 11 on its list of top national public universities, up two places from No. 13 last year. The rankings site also declared that the university is the No. 1 school for the Best Greek Life and No. 2 on the national list of Top Party Schools among 1,512 other schools. Other FSU news: FSU trustees give President McCullough a salary increase to $1M and a strong evaluation Rankings reshuffled amid new methodology The U.S. News & World Report's decision to retool its methodology by changing 22 metrics plays into FSU's lower ranking this year, removing the factors of class size, alumni giving rates, the percentage of faculty with a terminal degree and students high school standing all components that FSU scored well in when they were a part of the metrics, according to a university news release. Based on the university's own calculations, FSU would be No. 16 in this years U.S. News rankings among national public universities if the metrics did not change, according to McCullough. Were just trying to be better at everything, and hopefully the rankings will take care of themselves, McCullough said. How did your school do? New methodology, upsets in U.S. News & Report's 2024 college rankings Meanwhile, the University of California, Berkeley was tied with the University of California, Los Angeles in leading the U.S. News & World Report's rankings of the nation's public universities, with the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor completing the top three list. The University of Florida which was ranked No. 5 last year, dropped one spot down to No. 6 in this years list, tied with the University of California, Davis and the University of California, San Diego. Florida A&M University remains the top public HBCU in the nation and ranked no. 91 among public universities tied with California State University San Bernardino, Kansas State University, The University of Alabama and University of Hawaii at Manoa. That moves FAMU up a whopping 12 spots from last year to meet the long-time goals of stepping into the nations Top 100 public universities. Related news: FSU, FAMU improve in performance-based funding metrics, receiving millions in allocations President says FSU won't be 'driven by the rankings' Although the slip in the rankings interrupts FSUs steady steps toward being in the Top 15 and thwarts marketing efforts of being in the Top 20, improvements were seen in several areas. In the graduation and retention rates category, FSU ranked No. 24 among public universities as it currently holds a record 96% first-year retention rate, which measures how many first-year students stay enrolled from one fall semester to the next, and a 75% four-year graduation rate which is an all-time high from 74% last year. Students and their families know that Florida State University is devoted to seeing our students leave with their degrees in hand, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Jim Clark said in a prepared statement. Florida State University graduates are recognized as they walk across the stage during a Fall Commencement Ceremony. The U.S. News and World Reports metric changes go toward efforts of placing more emphasis on a schools success in graduating students from different backgrounds, according to a CNN article. I think the rankings play an important role in giving people a rough guide or idea of equality, but rough is to be underlined, McCullough said. One of the reports new factors this year is considering the graduation rate of first-generation students who receive federal financial aid. FSU ranked No. 17 among public universities in the metric as it continues to uphold its nationally recognized Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement (CARE) which supports first-generation college students with low-income backgrounds. With inclusion in the prestigious Association of American Universities still being a goal of the university, McCullough does not see FSU's placement in this years rankings affecting their efforts toward a possible membership in the future since AAUs metrics are research focused. Were not going to be driven by the rankings, McCullough said. Were going to be driven by what we think makes a great university. How Florida universities fared in the rankings Here are the placements of the Florida State University System in the U.S. News & World Report 2023-2024 Best Colleges rankings of public universities: 6. University of Florida 23. Florida State University 45. University of South Florida 64. Florida International University 64. University of Central Florida 91. Florida A&M University 112. Florida Atlantic University 129. University of North Florida 162. Florida Gulf Coast University (Not ranked) Florida Polytechnic University 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: Florida State slips to 23 in U.S. News & World Report rankings DENVER (KDVR) MDMA-assisted therapy could be on track for federal approval in 2024, and if that happens, Colorado already has a law on the books to allow its use. A study published Thursday found the drug 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine also known as ecstasy or molly can reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder when combined with talk therapy. Failing to obey Colorados new roundabout law could cost you $70 The study was sponsored by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, which advocates for the development of psychedelic medicine. The group expects to file for Food and Drug Administration approval later this year, with hopes that MDMA-assisted therapy will earn approval next year. Its the first innovation in PTSD treatment in more than two decades. And its significant because I think it will also open up other innovation, said Amy Emerson, CEO of MAPS Public Benefit Corporation, which administered the study. According to a bipartisan Colorado law passed over a year ago, FDA approval would be the first step to allowing MDMA in the state. Legal MDMA anticipated under existing Colorado law Colorado has been at the forefront of U.S. drug decriminalization first with cannabis, through a voter-approved constitutional amendment. Legal recreational sales started in 2014. Last November, Colorado voters decriminalized psilocybin mushrooms and approved a legal framework to offer the psychedelic in a therapeutic setting. The same initiative also decriminalized mescaline, ibogaine and dimethyltryptamine or DMT for short. Under the law, those psychedelics also could be considered for legal therapeutic use in the future. But months before the psychedelics vote, in June 2022, Gov. Jared Polis signed a bill that anticipates legal MDMA in Colorado. If the FDA approves a prescription medicine that includes MDMA, and its removed or exempted from its Schedule I narcotics classification under the Controlled Substances Act, the drug would be allowed in the state. What is the black Colorado license plate and how much does it cost? That includes prescribing, dispensing, transporting, possessing and using what would be a new prescription drug in Colorado by anyone whos legally allowed to do so, according to the bill summary. The bills primary sponsors in the House were Republican Patrick Neville and Democrat David Ortiz. Lead sponsors in the Senate included Republican Minority Leader John Cooke and Democrat Joann Ginal. MDMA studied for PTSD therapy Earlier this year, Australia became the first country to allow psychiatrists to prescribe MDMA and psilocybin, the psychoactive ingredient in psychedelic mushrooms. The drugs are gaining wider cultural acceptance in the U.S. in part because of efforts by MAPS. For the new MAPS study, researchers measured symptoms in 104 people with PTSD who were randomly assigned to get either MDMA or a dummy pill during three sessions, one month apart. Both groups received talk therapy. Colorado cannabis workers mixed on proposed reclassification After treatment, 86% of the MDMA group improved on a standard PTSD assessment compared to 69% of the placebo group. The assessment measures symptoms such as nightmares, flashbacks and insomnia. By the studys end, 72% of people in the MDMA group no longer met the diagnostic criteria for PTSD, compared to about 48% of the placebo group. MDMA is currently classified as Schedule 1, on par with heroin and deemed to have no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. The Associated Press contributed to this report. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com. Kennewick police are investigating the Sunday night drive-by shooting death of a man on North Tweedt Street. (Herald/Bob Brawdy/bbrawdy@tricityherald.com) A 40-year-old father was killed by gang members in a drive-by shooting in Kennewick on Sunday night, say police. Several people reported hearing gunfire on the 600 block of Tweedt Street about 10:40 p.m. Sunday, Kennewick police said in a news release. When officers arrived, they found Arthur Amaya with multiple gunshot wounds. He died at the scene. Amaya was in the breezeway of the apartment complex when he got into an argument with the gang members, Commander Christian Walters told the Tri-City Herald. They responded by opening fire. Its not clear why the gang members were at the apartment complex. Family members on the scene said Amaya is not involved in gangs, police said. Public records say that Amaya lived in an apartment at 619 North Tweedt. Online court records show he has no criminal history other than a 20-year-old charge of being a minor in control of a car after drinking. According to social media posts, he was married with children. He was also active in practicing his religion. Officers are continuing to investigate the shooting and are asking anyone with information to contact police using the non-emergency line at 509-628-0333. They can also leave an anonymous tip at www.kpdtips.com. The area, which is about a block away from WinCo Foods, has seen several gang-related shootings in recent months. Two rival gang members allegedly traded shots on Clearwater Avenue near WinCo on May 23. Then on June 5, gang members opened fire on rivals on the 6000 block of Canal Drive. On June 30, Aaron Lighthall, 25, allegedly opened fire on a truck on Clearwater Avenue and one person was cut by flying debris. This is the 10th homicide of the year in Benton County, tying this year as the second most deadly year in recent history. Gen. Mark Milley , the outgoing chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, defended the U.S. military from right-wing accusations that it has gone too woke. (See the video below.) No, not at all, Milley told CNNs Fareed Zakaria in an interview that aired Sunday. And Im not sure what that word truly means, the top U.S. military official added. Milley described the U.S. military as exceptionally strong and powerful, with its readiness rates better now than theyve been in years. This military is a lot of things, but woke, its not, he said. So, I take exception to that. I think that people say those things for reasons that are their own reasons, but its not true. Its not accurate. Its not to say there are some things out there that could fit into that category but its not a broad-brush description of the U.S. military as it exists today. Conservatives have railed against the militarys efforts to counter extremism and its teaching of what they falsely call critical race theory. Milley has previously slammed as offensive the claims promoted by former President Donald Trump , Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and former Fox News personality Tucker Carlson, among others. Also in the CNN interview, Milley opened up about his mistake in participating in a June 2020 photo-op with then-President Donald Trump amid anti-racism protests. The U.S. military should be apolitical, he said, recalling how he walked away from the event as soon as he realized what was going on. There was no place for a uniform to be in a political event, period, he added. We dont want our military involved in domestic politics. Milley must leave his post when his statutory term ends on Oct. 1. His replacement is currently unknown, thanks to Sen. Tommy Tubervilles (R-Ala.) singlehanded, monthslong blockade of military nominations and promotions in the Senate to protest the Pentagons policy allowing service members to take time off to seek abortion care in other states. Watch the video here: Related... The bridges connecting occupied Crimea in Kherson Oblast were mined but were not destroyed at the start of the full-scale invasion, and bridges over the Dnipro River in Kherson and Nova Kakhovka were not mined at all, General Andrii Sokolov said in an interview with Ukrainska Pravda on Sept. 18. When asked why up to a dozen river crossings in Kherson Oblast, as well as those at the Chonhar Strait, were not blown up to prevent Russian forces from using them, the former commander of the southern grouping of forces said that Russia was actively preventing these efforts. "You have to understand that the enemy realizes the importance of these bridges and crossings, and is also taking measures," Sokolov said. The general added that attempts to blow up the bridges have been made, and that a Ukrainian sailor managed to partially destroy a bridge in Henichesk at the cost of his life. Sokolov noted that the crossings should have been detonated long before Russian forces reached them. Once the invading troops managed to establish positions near the bridges, they could open fire to prevent attempts at destroying them. Commenting on why some of the bridges were not mined at all, Sokolov said he "could not have any influence on the process of mining bridges in Kherson." "Because I did not even have the material to mine them. I also needed equipment, time, and people who would carry out the mining," Sokolov said. Russia captured Kherson and much of the adjacent oblast during the first weeks of the full-scale war, making it the first and only regional center Moscow conquered since Feb. 24, 2022. According to Sokolov, Ukrainian forces in the south counted only 1,500 troops facing 20,000 Russian soldiers, who also possessed an advantage in artillery, aircraft, and other equipment. Ukraine retook Kherson and the right bank of Kherson Oblast during a counteroffensive last fall. Read also: How Russias humiliating defeat in Kherson came to be Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The hearing in the case against Russia on charges of violation of the Convention on the Prohibition of Genocide begins in the Peace Palace in The Hague on 18 September, and Russia has decided to participate. Source: European Pravda correspondent from The Hague; video blog about expectations from the process Details: This time Russia, which had ignored the process at previous hearings, has decided to send a delegation of lawyers to The Hague to defend itself against the charges. The Russian Federation is being represented by specialists from the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, lawyers hired from the firm Monastyrsky, Zyuba, Stepanov & Partners (whose abbreviated name also sounds like "Ministry of Foreign Affairs" in Ukrainian), and some "international lawyers". Legal scholars from Iran, China and Peru, and French-licensed lawyer Jean-Charles Tchikaya, who is not an academic but is known for representing the most odious African dictators, have agreed to represent the Russian Federation. In addition to specialists from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ukraine will be represented by the prestigious international law firm Covington & Burling, as well as a team of international legal experts who have been defending Ukraines interests in The Hague for a long time, led by Yale Law School professor Harold Koh and Universite de Paris Nanterre professor Jean-Marc Thouvenin. 32 other countries have also joined Ukraine's lawsuit against Russia. 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! Men wearing traditional clothes stand next to the Georgian flag during the Independence Day celebrations in Tbilisi By Felix Light TBILISI (Reuters) -Georgia on Monday accused a former deputy interior minister of plotting from Ukraine to overthrow the Tbilisi government, testing ties with Kyiv as Georgia deepens its relations with Russia. The State Security Service said it had been monitoring a group led by Giorgi Lortkipanidze, who it alleged was working as deputy head of Ukrainian military intelligence and is a former member of a strongly pro-Western Georgian government. "According to confirmed and verified information, the implementation of the plan - developed by Giorgi Lortkipanidze - would involve a rather large group of Georgian fighters in Ukraine and a part of Georgian youth," the service said in a statement. It did not provide evidence, and in Kyiv, foreign ministry spokesperson Oleg Nikolenko said Tbilisi was "trying to demonise Ukraine" for domestic reasons. "The Ukrainian state did not interfere, does not interfere and does not plan to interfere in the internal affairs of Georgia," he wrote on Facebook. Andriy Yusov, spokesman for Ukrainian military intelligence, said it had never had a Giorgi Lortkipanidze as deputy head, though he declined to say whether it employed such a person. The Georgian statement said the alleged plotters planned to channel frustration among young Georgians if the European Union failed to grant their country candidate status at an EU summit in mid-December. Georgia says it is committed to joining the EU. But it was denied candidate status last year, with Brussels saying it must reduce political polarisation and improve state institutions. Since then, EU officials say it has, if anything, slid back. Relations with Europe have also suffered since the beginning of the war in Ukraine as Tbilisi has avoided blaming Moscow, even though Georgia's population is heavily pro-Ukraine. Many Georgians resent Russia's backing for the breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, and Georgians are well-represented among foreigners fighting for Ukraine. Though Tbilisi has shipped humanitarian aid to Ukraine, it has declined to impose sanctions on Russia, and in May allowed direct flights to and from its vast neighbour for the first time since 2019. The same month, Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili blamed the expansion of the western NATO alliance for Russia's invasion of Ukraine. In December, the chair of the ruling party suggested that Georgians fighting in Ukraine could lose their citizenship. Kyiv has also criticised Georgia for imprisoning Mikheil Saakashvili, a pro-Western former president who acquired Ukrainian nationality. The Georgian State Security Service named a former bodyguard to Saakashvili as one of the alleged conspirators, along with the commander of a Georgian unit fighting in Ukraine. (Reporting by Felix Light; Editing by Kevin Liffey) German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius has announced the preparation of a new EUR 400 million military aid package for Ukraine in defence against the Russian aggressor. Source: Pistorius in an interview with Bild Details: The head of the German Defence Ministry said that the new package of military assistance to Ukraine includes explosive ammunition, mortar ammunition and missiles. "Because ammunition is what Ukraine needs most in its defensive struggle against a brutal war of aggression," Pistorius stressed. Also, Pistorius added, Ukraine will receive armoured vehicles, mine clearance systems, winter clothing and generators. In total, the package will cost EUR 400 million. The statement of the German Defence Minister was made before the meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group at the American Ramstein Air Base. It is expected that Berlin may also offer to expand the training of Ukrainian servicemen. According to the German government, the total amount of military assistance funded from February 2022 to Ukraine until the end of 2023 is EUR 5.4 billion. This amount takes into account both the equipment already provided and the package that is planned to be sent. In May, the German Ministry of Defence officially announced the provision of military assistance to Ukraine in the amount of EUR 2.7 billion, which was the largest package since the beginning of the Russian full-scale invasion. 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! China's leading liquor maker, Kweichow Moutai, has launched liquor-filled chocolates with Mars Inc-owned Dove. [Photo/CFP] China's leading liquor maker, Kweichow Moutai, has launched liquor-filled chocolates with Mars Inc-owned Dove. The product, which went on sale on Saturday, is priced at 35 yuan (about 4.88 U.S. dollars) for a gift box of two pieces and 99 yuan for a box of six. Ding Xiongjun, president of Kweichow Moutai Co., Ltd., said that the company has tried to make its products more appealing to younger generations. Since 2022, it has also launched baijiu (white alcohol)-infused ice cream, which young consumers favored. Early this month, China's domestic coffee brand Luckin launched the "sauce-flavored" latte laced with alcohol from Kweichow Moutai. According to Luckin, 5.42 million cups of the drink were sold on the first day of its launch, with the sales of the single product topping 100 million yuan, setting a new sales record for the coffee chain. Distilled in the town of Maotai in southwest China's Guizhou Province, this famed liquor is often served at state banquets. FRANKFURT (Reuters) - Germany on Monday launched its autumn vaccination campaign to prevent respiratory infection, promoting an updated COVID-19 booster shot only for the elderly or for people at high disease risks. Germany's public health body, the Robert Koch Institute, said that the country's vaccine advisory panel of independent experts, known as STIKO, reiterated its recommendation that booster shots beyond a standard COVID vaccination course should only given to certain at-risk groups. "People from 60 years of age and at-risk groups should get vaccinated, the better even if an influenza shot can go with that," said health minister Karl Lauterbach, who is 60 and who got the new COVID shot himself on Monday. With its choice to target only the elderly, at-risk or chronically ill people, residents of care homes, healthcare professionals and those in close contact with vulnerable people, Germany is broadly in line with other European countries, such as France, Italy or Britain. Britain has prioritised those aged 75 years and over, residents in care homes and people who are immunosuppressed for the new shots. That contrasts with a much wider approach in the United States where the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last week signed off on broad use of updated COVID-19 vaccines, covering ages 6 months and up. EU regulators last month gave the green light for an updated COVID-19 vaccine from Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech, which targets the XBB.1.5 variant of Omicron. Moderna's updated shot is also on track to win approval. (Reporting by Ludwig Burger and Andreas Rinke, Editing by Rachel More and Tomasz Janowski) Berlin is preparing an aid package worth 400 million euros ($430 million) for Ukraine, including munitions, armored vehicles, and clothes and generators for the upcoming winter, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius told Bild on Sept. 18. The German official said that the new assistance tranche will include explosive and mortar ammunition, rockets, armored vehicles, and demining equipment. Berlin also wants to help Ukraine prepare for the next winter by sending clothes and generators as Kyiv fears mass Russian strikes against Ukrainian energy infrastructure. When asked about the possibility of providing Ukraine with Taurus long-range missiles, Pistorius said that the decision has not yet been made as Berlin has to consider a "variety of political, legal, military and technical aspects." Ukraine has long been seeking to acquire Taurus missiles in addition to the long-range missiles provided by France and the U.K. The German leadership has been so far reluctant to provide the weaponry, reportedly fearing that the missiles with a range of 500 kilometers could be used to strike against Russian territory. According to Pistorius, Germany does not currently plan to join the fighter jet coalition either, and will instead focus on providing hardware such as Leopard 2A6 or IRIS air defense systems. Berlin announced its previous military aid package worth $770 million at the NATO summit in Vilnius, including two Patriot launchers, 24 Leopard 1A5 tanks, 40 Marder infantry fighting vehicles, and 20,000 artillery rounds. Read also: German MPs urge Scholz to provide Ukraine with Taurus missiles Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Sign up for CNNs Wonder Theory science newsletter. Explore the universe with news on fascinating discoveries, scientific advancements and more. Giant pandas living in captivity could be suffering from jet lag if their body clocks dont match their environments, scientists say. This could have a significant impact on the well-being and behavior of the endangered species, according to a new study published Monday in the journal Frontiers in Psychology. Like all animals, pandas have a circadian clock an internal body clock that runs in approximately 24-hour cycles and it is regulated by cues from their environment. But problems arise when the cues theyre exposed to in captivity do not match the ones of their natural environment, the study found. This could be very significant to considering the welfare of animals in captivity, many of which are at high risk of extinction in the wild including giant pandas. Animals, including humans, have evolved rhythms to synchronize their internal environment with the external environment, said lead study author Kristine Gandia, a PhD student at the University of Stirling in Scotland, in a news release. When internal clocks are not synchronized with external cues like light and temperature, animals experience adverse effects. In humans, this can range from jet lag to metabolic issues and seasonal affective disorder, Gandia said. Gandia and a team of observers set out to understand how the jet lag of living in latitudes that animals did not evolve in can affect them. This is definitely a concept that could apply to all captive animals, Gandia told CNN. Giant pandas were chosen as the focus for the study partly because they live highly seasonal lives. Migrations occur in spring because the pandas eat a certain species of bamboo and go in search of new shoots. Spring is also mating season. Their treatment in captivity also lent itself well to the study, Gandia added. Pandas are very good animals to focus on, she said. They are very popular in zoos and there are a lot which have panda cams (webcams from the animals enclosures), so we can see how their behavior changes across different latitudes. These cameras enabled the scientists to monitor the pandas behavior across a 24-hour period. Meanwhile, other factors such as regular visits by zookeepers could also affect the animals circadian clocks. Gandia explained to CNN that the latitudinal range for giant pandas is between 26 and 42 degrees north. Matching latitudes could also be considered between 26 and 42 degrees south, she said, as these mirror the temperature and lighting conditions. A team of 13 observers, led by Gandia, monitored 11 giant pandas at six different zoos, all of which were born in captivity. The zoos have not been identified but they were roughly split between the animals natural latitudes and those outside that range. Those that matched were in latitudes equivalent to their natural habitat in China, but could have been in other countries. The observers studied the pandas every month for a year, taking regular readings to see how their behavior changed. In an email to CNN, Gandia explained: We recorded essentially the entire repertoire of giant panda behavior, trying to account for behaviors that are positive, neutral and negative indicators for welfare. So, this would include behaviors like play, grooming, and the sexual-related behaviors as positive behaviors, and drinking and urinating/defecating as neutral maintenance behaviors, and several abnormal/stereotypic behaviors as negative behaviors, with pacing being the most common. Daylight and temperature were both found to be important cues for the pandas. Gandia explained the comparison with jetlag, telling CNN: The jet lag does not refer to the acute inability to sleep at proper times resulting from quickly moving between different time zones, but rather to the potential lack of ability to fully adapt to environmental conditions and cues at latitudes that the pandas have not evolved to live in. Therefore, it could result in certain internal clocks or behaviors being desynchronised with the environment or with each other. The captive animals displayed three peaks of activity during a 24-hour period one of which was at night just as they would in their natural habitat. Sexual behavior was only recorded during the daytime in adult pandas, which could be an easier time for them to find mates in the wild. Those living in captivity outside of their home latitude were found to be less active, which may have been because the daylight and temperature cues differed from those in their natural environment. When giant pandas are housed at higher latitudes meaning they experience more extreme seasons than they evolved with this changes their levels of general activity and abnormal behavior, Gandia said. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Hedge fund executive and Republican megadonor Ken Griffin isnt impressed with the field of candidates vying for the GOPs 2024 presidential nomination and that includes Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis . Griffin, who less than a year ago suggested that he was ready to back DeSantis should the governor launch a White House bid, told CNBC in an interview that hes staying on the sidelines of the primary for now, unsure of which candidate is best suited to topple the fields frontrunner, former President Donald Trump. Im still on the sidelines as to who to support in this election cycle, Griffin said. Look, if I had my dream, wed have a great Republican candidate in the primary who was younger, of a different generation, with a different tone for America. And wed have a younger person on the Democratic side in the primary, who would have his message for our country. At just 45 years old, DeSantis would appear to fit the mold of a younger candidate capable of ushering in generational political change. But in the interview, Griffin raised questions about DeSantis campaign strategy, saying that its unclear what voter base he is intending to appeal to. Griffin, the CEO of the hedge fund and financial services giant Citadel, also criticized the governors ongoing fight with Disney over the companys opposition to Floridas Parental Rights in Education Act dubbed the Dont Say Gay bill by critics which bans classroom instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity in public schools. DeSantis and his allies moved to strip Disney of its control over a special tax district and replace its board of supervisors. The ongoing battle with Disney, I think, is pointless, said Griffin. It doesnt reflect well on the ethos of Florida. A spokesperson for DeSantis campaign did not respond to the Miami Heralds request for comment. Griffins comments to CNBC mark a major reversal for one of the Republican Partys wealthiest donors. Last November, he told Politico that while DeSantis hadnt yet jumped into the 2024 presidential race, he has a tremendous record as governor of Florida, and our country would be well-served by him. Griffin himself bought a $75 million home on Star Island in Miami Beach in 2021 before moving Citadel to Miami from Chicago last year. Griffin also purchased the sprawling Arsht Estate, a four-acre compound overlooking Biscayne Bay, in Coconut Grove last year for $106.9 million. He spent over $100 million on the 2022 midterm elections, according to the campaign finance watchdog OpenSecrets. He also gave $5 million in 2021 to DeSantis reelection effort. Since then, hes taken issue with a few of DeSantis positions. The New York Times reported in April that Griffin had privately complained about the governors assertion that Russias invasion of Ukraine was a territorial dispute. Griffin also opposed an expansion earlier this year of the Dont Say Gay law. On 18 September, the Cabinet of Ministers dismissed six deputy ministers of defence and the ministry's state secretary. Source: Oleh Nemchinov, Minister of the Cabinet of Ministers, on Telegram Quote: "At its meeting on 18 September, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine adopted a resolution to dismiss: Volodymyr Havrylov from the post of Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine; Rostyslav Zamlynskyi from the post of Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine; Hanna Maliar from the post of the Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine; Denys Sharapov from the post of Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine; Andrii Shevchenko from the post of Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine for European Integration; Vitalii Deyneha from the post of Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine for Digital Development, Digital Transformation and Digitalisation; Kostiantyn Vashchenko from the post of State Secretary of the Ministry of Defence." Details: Under Ukraines Law on Executive Bodies, when a minister is dismissed, the first deputy minister and deputy ministers are dismissed by the Cabinet of Ministers. Update: High-level sources in the Ukrainian government told Ukrainska Pravda that all the deputy ministers resigned voluntarily at newly-appointed defence minister Rustem Umierov's request and will not be going back to their positions. Consultations are currently underway on candidates for the post of deputy defence minister. A source close to the Defence Ministry said: "A complete overhaul is underway." Background: On 5 September, the Verkhovna Rada (Parliament) accepted Oleksii Reznikovs resignation as Minister of Defence. 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! (FOX40.COM) California Governor Gavin Newsom announced at the opening ceremony of Climate Week NYC that he intends to sign Senate Bill 253, a greenhouse gas emissions disclosure requirement authored by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco). In announcing he will sign SB 253, Governor Newsom is reaffirming Californias global climate leadership. These carbon disclosures are a simple but intensely powerful driver of decarbonization, Senator Wiener said in a statement issued after the announcement. When business leaders, investors, consumers, and analysts have full visibility into large corporations carbon emissions, they have the tools and incentives to turbocharge their decarbonization efforts. This legislation will support those companies doing their part to tackle the climate crisis and create accountability for those that arent, he added. Two pilots dead in Reno plane crash, racing association says SB 253 is reported to require any public or private company earning over a billion dollars in annual revenue that operates in California to publicly disclose the greenhouse gas emissions released from their operations and supply chain. Officials say the goal is to unlock new approaches and drive action to reduce emissions. For more information visit legislature.ca.gov. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. (Bloomberg) -- Greece plans to double its budget backstop for natural disasters linked to climate change by increasing a levy on accommodations, mostly affecting luxury hotel stays, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said. Most Read from Bloomberg Special reserves will increase from 300 million ($320 million) to 600 million, as of 2024, Mitsotakis said in an annual speech on economic priorities in Thessaloniki on Saturday, following extreme weather that hit Greece with its biggest forest fires and floods in history this year. The government will fund the increase by raising an existing hospitality levy by between 1 and 6 per night, he said. Mitsotakis also made it clear that Greece will meet its fiscal targets regardless of the disasters economic cost. Moodys announced a two-notch lift of Greeces credit rating on Friday, bringing the country to within one step of investment grade. DBRS Morningstar, Scope Ratings and Rating and Investment Information Inc. have already given Greece investment grade since Mitsotakis won reelection in June, citing the countrys economic performance. Tourism is driving growth, with a 26% year-on-year increase in arrivals in the first half of 2023 and a 23.9% rise in revenues. But Greeces worst flooding ever left 17 dead in September, drowned tens of thousands of animals and destroyed homes, roads, bridges, businesses and farmland. The government says railroad repairs alone will cost more than 150 million. Storm Daniel flooded about 140,000 hectares, including in the hard-hit Thessaly region in eastern central Greece thats a major source of dairy, cotton and produce. The region that accounts for about 5% of Greeces gross domestic product. Investors and rating firms want to see the government stick to its reform agenda and fiscal discipline that took hold before the Covid-19 pandemic. Mitsotakis has pledged to meet the existing fiscal targets despite the natural disaster economic cost and also presented his plan for the reforms in justice system and health sector. I will never put in danger fiscal stability, he said Saturday. Mitsotakis also announced: Ten new measures to fight tax evasion, including that any purchase or sale of homes will have to be done through banks, not cash Those who rent three or more properties via short-term lease platforms will have to pay value-added tax and all taxes paid by hotels The end of special taxation on Greek bonds in a bid to make them an alternative for depositors A 50% cut in the financial transaction tax (Updates with other announced measures in last paragraph, adds tourism data.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. The group behind an Ohio abortion ballot measure rolled out a new ad Monday, highlighting one couple impacted by the Buckeye States current abortion law. Ohioans United for Reproductive Rights (OURR), which includes both Protect Choice Ohio and Ohioans for Reproductive Freedom, launched a 30-second ad that will air across the state and features a couple named Beth and Kyle who found themselves forced to go out of state to find affordable abortion care. When we first heard her heartbeat, the doctor said, Shes perfect. And at 18 weeks, doctors told us there was no way she was going to be able to live. An abortion was our only option. But the government here in Ohio took that decision away from us, the couple says in the ad. We had to leave the state in order to get the care that I needed. Because the law in Ohio is broken, voting yes on Issue One is the only way to fix this. What happened to us could happen to anyone, they end the ad saying. The couple were featured in a story reported by CNN in February that noted that Beth Long required an abortion after finding out that she had a rare condition, called limb body wall complex, which meant that the baby could not survive outside of the womb and whose continued growth would have impacted the mothers health. Ohio doesnt cover abortions under insurance save for limited exceptions; given Longs status as a state employee and that no abortion centers could see her at the time in Ohio, she was forced to have the procedure done in neighboring Pennsylvania, according to CNN. Long had the abortion at 21 weeks, close to the states current 22-week cutoff limit. Should Ohios trigger ban, which is currently paused amid litigation, go back into effect, it would ban the procedure in the state after six weeks. The ad is backed by a high six-figure buy and comes roughly two months before Ohioans will head back to the polls to vote on a ballot measure that Ohioans United for Reproductive Rights is backing, that would enshrine abortion protections in the states Constitution. Ohio is one of a number of states that enacted abortion bans that were effectively triggered after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. Abortion bans are being paused in some states, like Ohio, as litigation plays out, while others remain on the books as the issue makes its way through the courts. The Buckeye State became a flashpoint in the aftermath of the overturning of Roe v. Wade last year when the Indianapolis Star reported that a 10-year-old vape victim who was just over six weeks pregnant had been forced to leave the state to get an abortion. The trigger ban of six weeks was still active at the time. The issue was also at the center of an election in Ohio last month when voters were asked in an unusual August special election if the states Constitution should require 60 percent of voters to amend the Constitution up from a simple majority. The effort which was backed by Republicans, abortion rights opponents and several other business-related groups was largely seen as a way to block abortion rights advocates from being able to pass their own ballot measure in November. That effort ultimately failed. But Democrats are leaning into abortion again this cycle, with Ohio among the states trying to pass amendments to their Constitution to protect abortion access following the Supreme Courts decision. Candidates are also focusing on the issue heading into 2024 as it galvanized their base and even swing voters in a slew of competitive races during the 2022 midterms. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. An injured hiker was rescued after his backpacking group left him behind to continue on their trip, according to Arizona rescuers. The group of five friends were about three to four days into their backpacking excursion on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park along the Kanab Creek on Sept. 15 when one of them fell, the Mohave County Sheriffs Office Search and Rescue said in a Sept. 16 Facebook post. The fall caused a traumatic injury to the 63-year-old mans shoulder, rescuers said. After using an Apple device to call for help, the four friends continued on their days-long trip, leaving the injured man alone, rescuers said. Rescuers said they sent a team that included a helicopter to search the area for the injured hiker. The helicopter navigated in the dark with tall canyon walls surrounding Kanab Creek and landed about a quarter mile from the hiker, rescuers said. The crew made their way through the creek and boulders to the hiker, rescuers said. Rescuers said they assisted the man to the helicopter, and he was taken to a hospital. Rescuers urged others to never leave someone behind alone and whenever possible, to stay with them and ensure they are rescued before continuing on their journey. 55-year-old tourist dies during challenging Grand Canyon hike, rangers say iPhone alert leads rescuers to driver after 400-foot fall from cliff, CA officials say iPhone alert saves woman and dog after theyre swept 200 feet down canyon, rescuers say You are here: Business This photo taken on April 6, 2023 shows a view of Yangyi geothermal power station in Damxung County of Lhasa, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua] China released the world's first geothermal industry standard at the 2023 World Geothermal Congress, which concluded on Sunday in Beijing. The standard recommends medium-to-low-temperature hydrothermal geothermal heating practices, based on China's own heating practices. Previous tests carried out in north China's Hebei Province have demonstrated that the standard can ensure the sustainable development and usage of geothermal heating projects. Contributors to the standard include Sinopec Group, the China National Petroleum Corporation, Tsinghua University, the China University of Petroleum and the China University of Geosciences. This is the first year that China has hosted the World Geothermal Congress. The event ran from Friday to Sunday and was themed "Clean Geothermal, Green Earth." Over 1,400 guests from 54 countries attended the congress, which was hosted by the National Geothermal Energy Center and organized by Sinopec Group. A plea agreement hearing scheduled for Monday in the Capitol riot case of Olathe Proud Boy William Chrestman has been moved to mid-October. Chrestman is charged with multiple felonies in the Jan. 6 attack, including threatening to assault a federal officer and carrying an ax handle inside the Capitol. He was to plead guilty Monday afternoon in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. But shortly before the hearing was to take place, an entry on the court docket said it had been rescheduled to Oct. 16. No explanation was given for the continuance. The 49-year-old Army veteran and former sheet metal worker, who prosecutors allege was a key player in the attack, has been held without bond since his arrest in February 2021. He could be seen on numerous videos alongside other Proud Boys on Jan. 6, 2021, dressed in tactical gear, leading chants and at one point using the ax handle to obstruct metal barriers that had been deployed to prevent the mob from advancing further into the Capitol. Chrestman was indicted by a federal grand jury on Feb. 26, 2021, along with three other Kansas City-area Proud Boys Christopher Kuehne, who at the time lived in Olathe; Ryan Ashlock, of Gardner; and Louis Colon, of Blue Springs and Arizona siblings Cory and Felicia Konold. The six were charged with conspiracy, obstruction of an official proceeding, civil disorder and entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds. Chrestman also was charged with threatening to assault a federal law enforcement officer and carrying a wooden ax handle while in the Capitol building and on the grounds. All members of the Kansas City Proud Boys group except Chrestman were released on personal recognizance bonds pending trial. Colon pleaded guilty in April 2022 to one count of civil disorder, a felony. His sentencing has not yet been scheduled. Ashlock was sentenced to 70 days in jail and 12 months of supervised release in November 2022 after pleading guilty to one count of entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, a misdemeanor. Kuehne pleaded guilty on Sept. 7 to obstruction of law enforcement during civil disorder, a felony. He is scheduled to be sentenced Feb. 23. The Konolds are scheduled to plead guilty on Nov. 1. In denying Chrestmans request to be released on bond at a July 2021 hearing, U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Kelly went through a laundry list of Chrestmans alleged actions on the day of the riot that the judge said were captured by dozens of photos and videos. The actions, Kelly said, included Chrestman wielding an ax handle, encouraging the crowd to storm the Capitol and confronting law enforcement, telling an officer that You shoot and Ill take your f------ ass out! Kelly said that Mr. Chrestman was much more much, much more than someone who merely cheered on the violence or who entered the Capitol after others cleared the way. Chrestman was originally scheduled for a status conference on his case Monday afternoon. But on Thursday, the conference was converted to a change-of-plea hearing. The notice of Chrestmans change of plea came one week after Kuehne pleaded guilty. Halle Berry is not happy about Drakes decision to use her image to promote of his new single. The 57-year-old actress went to social media to express her disappointment about the Slime You Out cover, which features an image of Berry covered in slime at the 2012 Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards. Berry first posted a cryptic quote on Instagram. Sometimes you have to be the bigger guy . . . even if youre a woman, the post stated. When a fan replied to the post, asking Berry to express her thoughts about Drakes cover, the actress gave a straight forward answer. Didnt get my permission. Thats not cool I thought better of him, she wrote. Collaborating with SZA, Drake released his single on Friday. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the track will be featured in Drakes upcoming album For All the Dogs, scheduled to be released on Sept. 22. SZA and Drake teased their collaboration when they went to Instagram on Wednesday to post an image of the Slime You Out cover. Drake got his fans excited when he announced that he would release a song from his upcoming album before the project is released. I know yall excited to hear the album, he said according to Variety. I know its, like two weeks out. Im a drop a song for yall this week. Yeah, yeah. What a time, what a time. According to Drakes managerial team, the 36-year-old artist has been working on this album for a while. As soon as he dropped Her Loss, he just kind of kept recording, and were waiting for him to finish the work, the team told Variety. The songs Ive heard are incredible and obviously, from a managerial standpoint, its a uniquely incredible experience to work with an artist that can be on a tour of this size and still hype the fans up even more by telling them theres another project on the way. Late last week, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shocked people who follow American conservatism after a spokesperson issued a statement distancing the institution from Tim Ballard, the founder of Operation Underground Railroad and subject of the breakout summer hit film Sound of Freedom. Ballard had betrayed his friendship with a prominent LDS leader, the statement to Vice declared, and his fundraising activities were deemed morally unacceptable. It was a rare and stunning rebuke for a church that rarely speaks out about individual members. It was also a blow to Ballard, a rising star rumored to be eyeing the Utah Senate seat that is opening up due to Mitt Romneys decision to retire. Then, on Monday, Vice revealed that Ballards resignation from Operation Underground Railroad earlier this year came after an internal investigation into claims of sexual misconduct involving seven female employees. Even with this news, the dispute between Ballard and the church might appear odd to many observers. The LDS church is more commonly known for cracking down on progressive voices, after all. Yet there has been a growing divide between the LDS church and far-right-wing members for over a decade now. The radicalization of American conservatismwith its denunciation of mainstream news sources, forfeiture of traditional norms, and embrace of partisan-based alternative factshas had severe consequences within Mormon culture. The erupting fight between Ballard, a growing hero on the far right, and Latter-day Saints leaders is just one point of public exposure for a much broader phenomenon. The Latter-day Saints church has had no shortage of schisms in its 200-year history. Scholars have identified over 400 religious expressions that date back to the Church of Christ, the name of the first church founded by Joseph Smith in 1830. For any church to thrive, leaders must always balance competing tensions. On the one hand, they are forced to adapt to changing circumstances; conversely, they must also appeal to eternal truths that transcend evolving societies. So when institutions like the LDS church are believed to be tipping too far to the former impulse at the expense of the latter, there is often cause for discomfort, especially from conservative believers who denounce modern society as corrupt. Added to this tension, in this specific historical situation, is the growing radicalization of the American right. White evangelicals have, for much of the 20th century, developed competing foundations for truth and moral values that are in opposition to what are deemed secular principles. Questions surrounding gender, history, and knowledge are answered through tribal politics rather than intellectual inquiry. Even religion itself is more commonly understood through a political prism. Latter-day Saints, who had long been a target of American evangelicals who deemed their religion invalid, suddenly became their compatriots in battle during the culture wars of the 1970s and 1980s. Due to their ability to deliver on key social issues, like opposition to the passage of the Equal Rights Amendment, they were folded into the coalition known as the religious right. This granted the faith new social acceptance and cultural power. However, it also resulted in increasingly blurred boundaries between religious authority and far-right principles. As with white evangelicals, the doctrine of partisanship became inseparable from the doctrine of Christ. Such an overlap makes it difficult, therefore, when the two spheres come into conflict. It explains why, for instance, so many American Mormons were hesitant to follow the churchs counsel to get vaccinated and wear masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. It also explains why Mormons came in second to white evangelicals in polls determining which denominations were most likely to believe Donald Trumps lies concerning the 2020 election. Disputing church authority on secular issues is common, of course. But the divisions become more potent when they concern supposed religious truths. Tim Ballard has made a career by cultivating a certain image. He is a patriot dedicated to saving women and children from nefarious evils in the world. Ballard frequently speaks of global cabals dedicated to feasting on the innocent; observers have often identified how much of his discourse relates closely to QAnon conspiracies. Operation Underground Railroad, founded in 2013, claims to have emancipated more than 6,000 women and children and to have helped capture over 5,000 criminals. Yet experts have disputed these claims and have argued that OURs approach does more harm than good in the field. Not that this criticism bothers Ballard. In his carefully cultivated narrative, Ballard is the strong man who is standing up to waves of misinformation as a heroic truth-teller. In the past few years hes become a rising star in the right-wing mediaverse, meeting with Donald Trump in the White House and testifying before Congress, as well as a global celebrity through Sound of Freedom. Ballards brand of revisionist truth-telling has been especially popular within the LDS community. He wrote a series of books, marketed by the Latter-day Saints publisher Deseret Book, on Americas founding figuresthe pilgrims, George Washington, Abraham Lincolnthat utterly dismiss existing scholarship. Washington, Ballard argues, was visited by the Angel Moroni, the same divine figure who delivered the gold plates to Joseph Smith; Lincoln, conversely, was inspired to write the Emancipation Proclamation after reading the Book of Mormon. Scholars have frequently pointed out the shoddy historical work in these books, but no bother: Ballard and his supporters have a well-developed script to dismiss secular threats to Gods truth. Nor is Ballard alone in offering revisionist histories of the faith. There has been a growing number of Latter-day Saints who are uncomfortable with the churchs professionalized historical department shattering traditional myths. Most jarring for many is the increasingly clear picture of Smiths practice of polygamy that this department has produced. After a new church-sponsored historical essay admitted that Smith had up to 40 plural wives, it shocked and angered LDS members who missed the earlier, simpler depictions of the faiths founder. Many of these members congregated around Denver Snuffer, a lawyer who denounced church leaders for giving up sacred doctrines in a quest for social acceptance. He declared that Smith never practiced polygamy but that plural marriage was introduced by Brigham Young, Smiths successor. Snuffer was excommunicated in 2013, but his conspiracies, especially those that tell a declension narrative about the church, continue to be popular. More recently, a new conspiracy, led by Phil Davis, a Utah chocolatier, has gained popularity by borrowing from broader fears concerning the deep state. A multipart documentary produced by this group alleges that Smiths death at Carthage Jail in 1844 was an inside job performed by apostles, rather than an anti-Mormon mob. This and several other alternative facts efforts reveal a growing dissatisfaction in a particular conservative segment of the church with mainstream truths. Though Ballard has certainly flirted with QAnon conspiracies in the past, he has not been part of these groups that directly challenge the church. His problems with the church, according to Vice, were initially related to him apparently using the name of church apostle M. Russell Ballard (no relation) as part of his fundraising. Speculatively speaking, one might imagine that todays news of the allegations of sexual misconduct could provide further reason for the churchs anxiousness to distance itself from him. The statement to Vice was not clear about what particular actions were deemed morally unacceptable, after all. [Update, Sept. 19, 2023, at 4:15 p.m.: Tim Ballard issued a statement denying the allegations of sexual abuse, calling them tabloid-driven baseless inventions.] In a previous age, such allegations would likely end someones career. Yet in the era marked by a conservative base pledging fidelity to someone like Donald Trump, Ballard is poised to take advantage of a playbook that has already been prepared. Ballards first public remarks after the churchs statement last week came in what appears to be a well-choreographed monologue at a Revolutionary War monument in Boston. The site, indeed, symbolizes secession. Its not true, he insisted, dismissing the allegations that he was using Apostle Ballards name in an unauthorized way. All the press was spreading lies. While at first he said, I dont believe the church did this, Ballards speech eventually came to a crescendo, describing a grand conspiracy. It was not a coincidence, he claimed, that there was a coordinated attempt to smear his name just as it became known he might run for the Senate. I pray to God, he concluded, that the church wasnt part of this. Thank you for filming, Ballard told those gathered around him by the monument. He encouraged them to send their videos to news outlets. Ballard is nothing if not a showman. Others were quick to back him up. Far-right media personality Glenn Beck, who is also a Latter-day Saint, offered his support on X in a since-deleted thread, claiming that effectively excommunicat[ing] church members was something his church never used to do. (The thread was deleted within hours of being posted, before Vice published the sexual misconduct allegations on Monday.) And social media was filled with accusations that Vice had made up the statement (despite it being confirmed by other outlets), that the statement was given by a rogue public relations worker, or that church leaders had lost their spine. It is yet to be seen what the entire fallout will be. But whether or not Ballard publicly breaks with the church, the dispute is yet another example of conservative angst within an evolving church that continues to wrestle with how to control its members. As the Latter-day Saints tradition remains firmly entrenched within Americas far-right circles, disputes over final authority, historical truth, and moral initiatives will continue to be contested space. An ill-conceived federal government shutdown could soon be imposed on America by hard-right members of the House of Representatives. The House, led by Bakersfield Republican Kevin McCarthy , has 435 members. At least 52 of them are members of the so-called Freedom Caucus, a far-right group that seeks to impeach President Biden and cut federal expenses, among other goals. They are angry with McCarthy for the deal he reached with President Biden on the deficit cap because, they said, it allows for too much spending. So now they threaten to oppose bills to keep the government running once the new fiscal year starts on Oct. 1. Without those bills approved, only essential services and mandatory spending programs can continue. Everything else stops. Over the weekend, three members of the Freedom Caucus met with three GOP colleagues of the so-named Main Street Caucus, a more moderate group of conservatives, to hammer out a short-term funding deal that would avert any shutdown. But four other members of the Freedom Caucus have already stated opposition to the deal, and McCarthy can only lose four GOP votes if he hopes for any passage. Assuming a stalemate continues, the public will feel the burn directly at national parks. In 2013, when faced with a similar government closure, the Park Service packed up shop entirely. No visitors were allowed into places like Yosemite National Park. Imagine not being able to visit Yosemite, Yellowstone or the Grand Canyon. Nationwide, the closure resulted in an estimated $500 million loss in visitor spending. Political gridlock occurred again in 2018 and early 2019, but this time the parks stayed open. However, staff were furloughed and facilities, like rest rooms, were closed. National parks were predictably trashed by visitors who inconsiderately did not haul out their garbage. Cleaning up the mess took extra money that was unbudgeted. It is beyond sad to think that Yosemite might get trashed again, and yet, that is what could well happen if 50 or so House members have their way. Scott Gediman, a Yosemite spokesman, said park officials had no information on what the response would be to any shutdown. Besides Yosemite, there are 33 other Park Service entities in California parks, monuments, recreation areas, historic sites and trails, and a preserve, a memorial and a seashore. All would be affected by a government shutdown. Risk to Yosemite It bears emphasizing that there is only one Californian who has publicly acknowledged being in the Freedom Caucus Darrell Issa from the San Diego area. He said in recent weeks that Congress has an obligation to keep funding the government and he was willing to compromise. Other caucus members, however, are not so charitable. Rep. Ralph Norman, of North Carolina, has said If a shutdown occurs, then so be it if theyre not gonna stick to what (McCarthy) agreed to, which is starting on a path of financial security, which we dont have. There are two sides to the coin of financial security, of course. One is cutting spending the only side Norman and the rest of the Freedom Caucus care about. But there are also revenues. If the government generated more money, deficit spending would drop. According to an analysis by the Peter G. Peter Foundation, The current tax rate for corporations is less than half the size it was in the 1950s and 60s. The foundation, a nonpartisan advocate for a strong economy, also notes this: The United States will forgo $161 billion of revenues in 2023 as a result of tax expenditures, or special tax code provisions, for corporations. Other impacts Fresno Democratic Rep. Jim Costa says there are other impacts from a government shutdown: National Institutes of Health (NIH) would be prevented from admitting new patients or processing grant applications. Funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is mandatory, but the ability to send out food stamp benefits could be affected. The Smithsonian museums would close. The Food and Drug Administration will be unable to support a number of its food safety activities Loans to small businesses through the Small Business Administration will stop. There can be air travel disruptions, including delayed or reduced travel, and impacts to air traffic control. Nearly 190,000 federal employees in California would not get paid or be able to do their jobs. The IRS and Veterans Administration will keep operating, and Social Security and SSI checks will still go out. But, A government shutdown ultimately adds to the federal deficit due to the costs of stopping and restarting government programs, said Anthony Camacho, Costas press secretary. What a mess To sum up, the destructive politics of a handful of House members could plunge the federal government into a shutdown. The Senate has passed spending bills on a bipartisan basis. But McCarthy has been unable to wrangle his unruly Freedom Caucus colleagues. Making matters worse for him, some of those Freedom Caucus members are threatening to try to vote McCarthy out of his speakership. What a mess. How ridiculous, and how totally avoidable. Actor Stephen Fry issued a warning about AI cloning his voice at the CogX Festival on Thursday. Fry said his readings of the "Harry Potter" audiobooks were input into an AI and used to create new audio. Fry said it won't be long before AI is used to create "deepfake videos" of actors without consent. Actor Stephen Fry sounded the alarm on AI at the CogX Festival on Thursday saying the technology had been used to clone his voice to create audio illegally, according to various reports including from Fortune and Deadline . Fry played a clip at the festival of an AI system that copied his voice to narrate a historical documentary and pointed out that AI is a "burning issue" for the actor's union SAG-AFTRA, of which he is a member. "I said not one word of that it was a machine. Yes, it shocked me," he told the audience about the audio. "They used my reading of the seven volumes of the Harry Potter books, and from that dataset, an AI of my voice was created, and it made that new narration." He explained that the audio resulted from a "mashup," created from a "flexible artificial voice, where the words are modulated to fit the meaning of each sentence." He added: "It could therefore have me read anything from a call to storm Parliament to hard porn, all without my knowledge and without my permission. And this, what you just heard, was done without my knowledge. So I heard about this, I sent it to my agents on both sides of the Atlantic, and they went ballistic they had no idea such a thing was possible." Fry said he warned his agent that this was just the beginning. "It won't be long until full deepfake videos are just as convincing," he said. Hollywood actors and writers have been striking for months to express their anger at a number of issues in the industry, including royalties from streaming platforms. Another top issue during the strike is how studios plan to use AI. Members of the SAG-AFTRA union say the studios they're negotiating with proposed to pay background actors for an AI day where a scan is taken of them to create a digital likeness and used in future content without compensation or consent. "Actors now face an existential threat to their livelihoods with the rise of generative AI technology," Duncan Crabtree Ireland, the union's national executive director and chief negotiator said. Henry Ajder, an AI expert and presenter, who is on the European advisory council for Meta's Reality Labs, previously told Insider that AI could be used in the future to create nonconsensual deepfake pornographic images and videos of actors. For example, a deepfake app called FaceMega promoted a sexually suggestive advert in March, by using actress Emma Watson's face superimposed onto the body of another woman. Read the original article on Business Insider Facing a storm of criticismand lawsuitsHawaii Gov. Josh Green is reversing substantial portions of his emergency suspension of homebuilding regulations. The revised proclamation, issued on Friday, restores environmental reviews, historic preservation laws, and state zoning regulations that had been paused by the governor in July, Honolulu Civil Beat reports. "My intention long before the emergency proclamation has always been to find a pathway to build housing and to honor our traditions of environmental protection and culture," the Democratic governor told Civil Beat. "I never intended anything except to build housing we need." The state chapters of the Sierra Club and the American Civil Liberties Union, as well as Native Hawaiian cultural groups, sued the governor and members of his administration earlier this month. They described his replacement of environmental and historic preservation rules, which play a role in preserving Native Hawaiian burial sites, with a more streamlined process as attempted "genocide" and "dictatorship." In addition to restoring those laws, Green is reorganizing a controversial Beyond Barriers Working Group. He created the group to determine whether individual housing and infrastructure projects should get relief from a range of additional regulations, including local zoning laws, impact fees, and taxes. Nani Medeiros, chair of the working group, announced she would resign earlier this month, citing the negative comments she and her family had received from opponents of the governor's order. The reorganized board will be led by a triumvirate of state housing officials. "I can't stand the housing crisis we're in and have been in for decades. Our regulatory processes are considered some of the worst in the nation," said Medeiros in a statement obtained by Civil Beat. "Threats have been made against me, loved ones who don't even work for the government, and even children. I love my family, and for the sake of their health and safety, I've been left with no choice but to resign from my position." The governor is also excluding Lahaina, the Maui community destroyed by July wildfires, from the new proclamation. The governor's new order still allows authorities to waive local development regulations, impact fees, and collective bargaining arrangements. (The latter would be suspended while third-party permit reviewers are hired.) The changes are nevertheless a major retreat from the sweeping provision of Green's previous order. The governor has justified the reversal by saying that he doesn't "think war over process is going to help anybody." Yet the premise of his original proclamation was that Hawaii's process for approving new development was the primary reason for Hawaii's low rates of building and highest-in-the-nation housing costs. The preamble to his latest proclamation still says that "a critical barrier to the speedy development of housing is the lengthy, cumbersome, and antiquated regulatory process." It notes that more than a dozen state and county studies commissioned since 1991 have recommended regulatory streamlining. If you want to make progress on Hawaii's housing shortage, war over the process is inevitable. And it's a war Green could likely win, at least in the courts. The emergency statute that the governor is using to justify his housing proclamation gives him "sole" authority to decide what counts as an emergency. The law also directs courts to interpret the statute in favor of the governor's exercise of emergency powers. Federal courts rejected numerous legal challenges to the former governor's far more invasive emergency orders during COVID-19. "There is little in the emergency management statute that constrains the governor's powers during an emergency period," concludes a 2021 report by the pro-market Grassroot Institute. That is to say, it's probable that Green's housing proclamation would withstand the lawsuits already filed against it. Rather than hold the line, Green is voluntarily choosing to retreat. The immediate effect of the governor's reversal will be to defang the parts of his order mostly likely to expedite housing development. In the longer term, he's emboldening supporters of Hawaii's current burdensome regulatory regime. Green's housing proclamation was controversial even among people who support its deregulatory thrust: Even if the governor was making the right decisions, he was still intruding on the legislature's sphere. By keeping the emergency proclamation in place while neutering its overall effect, Green is not mollifying these critics. "From necessary evil to worst of both worlds: Before, the question was whether abusing the emergency power could be tolerated in order to fast-track housing," tweeted Pacific Legal Foundation attorney Robert Thomas. "Now, however, all this isan abuse of the emergency power that won't fast-track housing." The post Hawaii Gov. Josh Green Backtracks on YIMBY Emergency Order appeared first on Reason.com. As artificial intelligence technology continues to advance, some elected officials are worried about the use of deepfakes to sway federal elections. A deepfake is the term used to describe a digitally-altered video depicting an image of someone saying or doing something that is typically malicious and false. It is this type of activity that U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley is trying to prevent from interfering with upcoming federal elections. He is joined by U.S. Sens. Amy Klobuchar , D-Minn., Chris Coons , D-Del., and Susan Collins , R-Maine, in sponsoring the Protect Elections from Deceptive AI Act. We must protect the right of Americans to vote without being controlled or manipulated by artificial intelligence companies, Hawley said in a release. Elections belong to the people, not the tech companies. This legislation would ban the use of AI to generate false or deceptive content in political ads about candidates in federal elections. Right now, were seeing AI used as a tool to influence our democracy, Klobuchar said. We need rules of the road in place to stop the use of fraudulent AI-generated content in campaign ads. Voters deserve nothing less than full transparency. If passed, the bill would amend the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to include the ban on faked malicious political or issue advertisements. If found in violation, the bill would allow federal candidates to order the content removed and seek damages in federal court. More: With artificial intelligence growing popular, here's what to know about how it works American democracy faces novel threats from deceptive content generated by artificial intelligence, and we must take action to defend our system of free and fair elections, Coons said. That is why Im proud to have worked across the aisle to introduce legislation to safeguard federal elections by restricting the use of AI-generated content. Many social media platforms have already banned posts containing deepfakes, with the exception of those made as satires or parodies. This bill would contain similar exceptions, as aligned with First Amendment rights to freedom of speech. It would also allow for AI-generated content in news broadcasts. This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Josh Hawley, bipartisan coalition oppose deceptive AI in elections Just weeks before federal child care pandemic relief funding is set to run out, federal lawmakers introduced the Child Care Stabilization Act which proponents say would keep millions of children in care. The act would continue the Child Care Stabilization Grant Program, which was created under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 to keep child care providers afloat during the pandemic. The $24 billion that Congress devoted to the program is set to run out Sept. 30. According to a report from The Century Foundation, the nation will face "dire consequences" if the federal government does not take action. Wisconsin, the report found, is no exception. Here's are the answers to some common questions about this proposed legislation: What exactly does the Child Care Stabilization Act propose? If approved, the Child Care Stabilization Act would provide $16 billion each year for the next five years to continue the Child Care Stabilization Grant Program. This amounts to $80 billion being funneled to the child care industry. The bill language said it would continue a stable source of funding to help offset operating costs without having to drastically increase tuition, sustain and increase wages and ultimately expand the capacity and supply of child care providers. It would also support access to child care services that can be particularly hard to find, including infant care and child care for children with disabilities. The bill said funding will be allocated to states the same way as stabilization funds from the American Rescue Plan. As of now, there is not an exact projection of how much Wisconsin would receive if the legislation were to pass. How did the pandemic relief funds help Wisconsin? Wisconsin used Child Care Stabilization Grant Program dollars, along with other federal COVID-19 relief money, to help fund its Child Care Counts program. Child Care Counts has undergone several iterations since its inception in May 2020; the current version distributes stabilization payments to providers on a monthly basis. According to the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families, over $650 million has gone to 5,080 providers between May 2020 and August 2023 via Child Care Counts funding. Child care providers previously told the USA TODAY NETWORK-WISCONSIN that Child Care Counts prevented steep tuition hikes during the pandemic, allowed providers to hire extra help, increase staff wages, make long put-off center improvements and keep their doors open. With Child Care Counts funding set to sunset in early 2024, providers face an uncertain future, and with funding petering out, some are already getting a taste of what it's like to lose this revenue source. The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families administers Child Care Counts. Its communications director, Gina Paige, said if the Child Care Stabilization Act passes, proposals would need to be submitted to the state Joint Committee on Finance over how to use the funds. Paige said DCF could not comment on what a possible proposal would entail at this time. How did pandemic relief funds help the child care industry nationwide? Child care stabilization grants have kept millions of children in care, according to a report from the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions. A fall 2022 survey from the National Association For Young Children found 35% of providers surveyed credit stabilization funds with keeping their businesses open. The report from the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions said the Child Care Stabilization Grant Program kept 220,000 child care providers afloat, enabling many parents and guardians to remain in the workforce knowing their children are being taken care of during the day. What's at stake? The Century Foundation Report estimated more than 3 million children nationwide will lose access to child care and 70,000 child care programs will close if Congress does not continue child care investment. Between parents leaving the workforce or reducing their hours due to child care woes, families would see $9 billion in lost earnings each year, the report calculated. It also said that when considering the loss in tax and business revenue, states stand to lose $10.6 billion in economic activity annually. In Wisconsin alone, The Century Foundation estimates over 2,100 child care programs would close, leaving over 87,000 children without care. Parents leaving the workforce as a result would cost Wisconsin more than $232 million in parental wages, the report concluded. Those who could still access care would likely find it more expensive; over half of Wisconsin providers responding to the fall 2022 NAEYC survey said they will need to raise their rates when stabilization grants end. The staffing shortages the child care industry is currently facing are also expected to worsen, as the survey found over 33% of Wisconsin providers expect to have to decrease employee compensation. Child care is already a notoriously low-paid field. U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisconsin), a bill sponsor, said in a press release, "We must pass this legislation to lower costs for working families, help Wisconsin businesses meet the demand for workers and grow our economy." What's next? The bill was introduced in both the Senate and House of Representatives last week. Rep. Gwen Moore (D-Wisconsin) and Congressman Mark Pocan (D-Wisconsin) sponsored the legislation in the House. "The bills sponsors are working to move the legislation forward as quickly as possible to address the coming deadline at the end of September," said Baldwin's office. Madison Lammert covers child care and early education across Wisconsin as a Report for America corps member based at The Appleton Post-Crescent. To contact her, email mlammert@gannett.com or call 920-993-7108. Please consider supporting journalism that informs our democracy with a tax-deductible gift to Report for America. This article originally appeared on Appleton Post-Crescent: Here's what we know about the proposed Child Care Stabilization Act The Kansas Department of Transportation paid nearly $4.4 million and nearly $4 million, respectively, to buy properties formerly owned by Let's Help Inc. and TFI LLC in the future path of the Polk-Quincy Viaduct. Those amounts were well above the appraisal values Shawnee County determined of $1,698,400 for the former Let's Help property at 200 S. Kansas Ave. and $583,000 for the former TFI property at 129 S.E. Quincy, said Steve Hale, KDOT's communications coordinator. But those properties "had unique considerations that other properties may not, and thus they cost more to acquire," Hale told The Capital-Journal on Friday. Few buildings remain in the future path of Topeka's Polk-Quincy Viaduct as the Kansas Department of Transportation acquires properties needed to replace and realign that roadway. KDOT still needs to acquire four buildings in viaduct's path KDOT provided The Capital-Journal contracts free of charge sharing details of its purchases of the two properties. KDOT since early last year has been acquiring properties in the future path of the viaduct, which runs through downtown Topeka. "KDOT makes every effort to negotiate these items fairly with respect to property owners and the Kansas taxpayers," Hale said. "If we cannot negotiate a price, then we proceed to eminent domain and allow court-appointed appraisers from the community to determine the appropriate price." The department has reached settlements to acquire 28 of the 36 tracts needed for the viaduct project, Hale said. KDOT needs four remaining buildings. Shawnee County Appraiser's Office records show it has yet to finalize agreements with the following owners: First Avenue Leasing LLC, 101 S.W. Tyler. Team Kansas Inc., 116 S. Kansas Ave. Ryder Truck Rental, 600 S.W. 2nd and 631 S.W. 1st. Here's how much KDOT paid for two key properties The contracts KDOT released to The Capital-Journal show it agreed to pay: $4,395,553 to the longtime Topeka charity Let's Help Inc. for property it owned at 200 S. Kansas Ave., under terms of a contract dated Nov. 30, 2022. $3,975,702.39 to TFI, a foundry and iron business, for property it owned at 129 S.E. Quincy under terms of a contract dated May 31. Why does KDOT sometimes pay more than appraisal value? Hale explained why KDOT paid Let's Help and TFI considerably more than their appraisal values. Appraisal determines the property's "fair market value," which is what a well-informed buyer and a well-informed seller would accept at an open market, he said. When a KDOT project impacts property owners, it is KDOT's responsibility to compensate them fairly for the value of the buildings and property involved, as well as any "quantifiable impacts to the owners, their business and/or the property that will be remaining," Hale said. "We also consider any other compensation due to the property owner because of the impact the project has on the property," he said. The Kansas Department of Transportation paid $3,975,702.39 to TFI LLC, a foundry and iron business, for the property shown here at 129 S.E. Quincy. Why did TFI get almost $4 million when it was displaced? KDOT initially offered $1.18 million for its building and property to TFI but ended up paying $3,975,702.39, Hale said. "TFI had extra high garage doors, special ventilation, compressed air pipes, a mono-rail capable of 1-ton lifts and an air compression room, among others," he said. "TFI wanted to make sure the location they moved to would keep their campus as intact as possible. This new location was partially unfinished and so part of the compensation was bringing the new location up to code." The total cost KDOT paid to lessen the impacts of the Polk-Quincy project on TFI totaled $2,345,702.39, Hale said. "An additional $450,000 was paid because the acquired property is no longer a part of a whole property and the remaining portion of the property has been devalued," he said. KDOT also paid the $1.18 million it had offered for the building and property, the purchase contract said. It indicated TFI's new site was at 200 S.W. Jackson. The Kansas Department of Transportation paid $4,395,553 to Let's Help Inc. for the property shown here at 129 S.E. Quincy. Why did Let's Help get almost $4.4 million when it was displaced? KDOT originally offered Let's Help $2,099,000 for the building and property it sits on, Hale said. In assessing what would be fair compensation for Let's Help, KDOT took into consideration the charity's needs regarding dry food storage, security systems, fire suppression systems, classrooms, clothing storage and commercial laundry, as well as a dining hall and office space, Hale said. "Certain items like kitchen equipment, commercial refrigeration and freezer units were not considered personal property and became items that were negotiated," he said. "Lets Helps original location contained warehouse space for forklifts, loading docks for donations, deliveries and pickups. The new location would need them as well." Jennifer Loeffler, executive director of Let's Help, a Topeka charity since 1969, announced plans last January to renovate and then relocate in early 2024 to a building at 245 S.W. MacVicar Ave., which was vacant at the time. "The new location and building will allow Let's Help to continue to serve the citizens of the community with modernized spaces, greater flexibility and improved energy efficiency," Loeffler said that day. The total cost KDOT paid to lessen the impacts of the Polk-Quincy project on Let's Help totaled $2,296,553, Hale said. "This, combined with the $2,099,000 offer for new land and building, put our total to $4,395,553, which is the total cost KDOT paid for Lets Helps property," he said. What did KDOT pay for some other key properties? Other contracts obtained by The Capital-Journal show KDOT paid the following: $1,298,305 to Shawnee Woodwork Inc., which owned properties containing buildings in the 100 block of S.W. Van Buren and 100 block of S.W. Harrison. Those buildings have since been razed. $1,100,000 to Paul Properties, which owned property not containing buildings in the 100 block of S. Kansas Avenue. $900,000 to the Steven J. Mohan Trust, which owned property containing a building at 121 S. Kansas Ave. That building has since been razed $650,000 to Piping Contractors of Kansas Inc., which owned property containing a building at 115 S.W. Jackson. That building has since been razed. Some property owners being displaced say KDOT isn't being fair KDOT hasn't been offering fair amounts for properties in the viaduct's future path, The Capital-Journal was told June 1 by Tom Lemon, an attorney representing Team Kansas, and Eric Duncan, chief financial officer of Torgeson Electric, which leases properties owned by First Avenue Leasing in the future viaduct's path. KDOT still hasn't reached agreements to acquire the Team Kansas and First Avenue Leasing properties. The Capital-Journal also made contact June 1 with Jon Haas, president of the HME Group of Cos., of which TFI is a member. Haas had signed the contract to sell with KDOT the previous day. "The KDOT representatives have been good to work with and have gone the extra mile to make sure we are able to maintain our business operations in downtown Topeka while making room for the new viaduct," he said. More: Commercial properties in viaduct project's path face unfriendly relocation costs in 'seller's market' What will the viaduct project do? The viaduct project seeks to improve safety by replacing and flattening out Interstate 70's sharp curve near S.E. 3rd Street by moving to the north much of the highway that currently runs to the west of that curve. The curve was created when KDOT in 1963 built the viaduct, an aging, elevated four-lane segment of I-70 that runs between S.W. Polk and S.E. Quincy streets. Overall costs are estimated to total about $300 million for the project, with Topeka's city government paying about $27 million of that. Actual replacement of the viaduct is set to begin in 2025. Contact Tim Hrenchir at threnchir@gannett.com or 785-213-5934. This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Kansas paid millions to buy Topeka properties in path of I-70 viaduct You are here: Business A car drives in a desert scenic spot in Makit County of Kashgar, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 7, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua] China's car rental services have seen robust business growth thanks to a strong recovery in the tourism market. Domestic car rental services giant CAR Inc. said the total orders for its car rental services during the July-August period surged some 50 percent year on year and exceeded that of 2019, as many people chose to travel during the summer vacation. The orders from new users climbed nearly 80 percent, logging a record high, and cross-city orders made up over 80 percent of the total orders, it added. The company also saw a boost in long-period car rental services, with orders for rental periods of five days or more rising 70 percent year on year. As the country's new energy vehicle (NEV) infrastructure, like charging stations, improves, rental service orders for NEVs skyrocketed over 150 percent year on year, data from CAR Inc. showed. The summer tourism market posted a strong recovery that surpassed that of 2019. Domestic tourist trips this summer surpassed 1.8 billion in number, generating a total tourism revenue of 1.21 trillion yuan (about 137.6 billion U.S. dollars), according to the China Tourism Academy. The company said bookings during the Aug. 17-Sept. 15 period for car rental services for the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday gained over 200 percent year on year and over 30 percent compared with 2019. The service sector posted remarkable performance this year, serving as a major underpinning of China's economic growth. Official data from the National Bureau of Statistics showed that prices related to travel and accommodation rose faster in August than in July, pointing to the strong driving force of services consumption. "Public consumption steam has been gathering, evidenced by the robust travel market," said NBS spokesperson Fu Linghui, who estimated that services consumption growth might maintain a fast clip thanks to the upcoming 8-day-long holiday. UW Health nurses again are turning up the heat at Madison's largest hospital over wage caps and greater pay transparency. Its demands come one year after the nurses' union threatened a three-day strike if the union wasn't recognized by the hospital. Here's a quick glance at the history for union recognition and greater bargaining power, the issues at hand and lingering legal questions: UW Health's nurses union was dissolved in 2014 Former Republican Gov. Scott Walker signed Act 10 into law on March, 11, 2011. The highly contentious bill eliminated most collective bargaining rights for public workers. It saved the state billions of dollars by requiring public employees to pay more for their health insurance and pensions and took away much of the say government employees had in their workplaces, kicking off a rapid decline in union participation. In 2021, unions in Wisconsin claim 137,000 fewer members in the public and private sector than they did a decade ago, according to a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article that analyzed the impact of Act 10 on its 10-year anniversary. Act 10 allowed the nurses' contract to remain in place until it expired in 2014. UW nurses attempt for a union after the pandemic Burned out from the COVID-19 pandemic and increasingly working short-staffed a trend occurring across the state and country UW nurses began to question whether their ability to form a union was covered by Act 10. The 2018 election had ushered in Democrats Gov. Tony Evers and Attorney General Josh Kaul . The change in party leadership renewed a push by the nurses to seek the union they had lost when their contract expired. Evers met virtually with roughly 400 nurses in early 2022, listened to their concerns over patient safety and retention. He asked Kaul to research whether University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority can voluntarily engage in the collective bargaining process with its nurses. AG Josh Kaul said UW's hospital system doesn't have to engage in collective bargaining with nurses Kaul issued a formal opinion in June 2022 that said University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority can voluntarily engage in the collective bargaining process with its nurses, but it isn't required to do so. It can but it doesn't have to that's the legal rub that continues to stand between the nurses and the hospital's top administrators. Two months after Kaul's formal opinion was released, the nurses threatened a three-day strike if its union wasn't recognized by the hospital and hospital authority. Gov. Evers in 2022 got both sides to agree to avert a strike. What can nurses now do? Before the agreement, or memorandum of understanding, nurses couldn't display union materials or talk about forming a union. Now, they can. The nurses now also have a voluntary union that's recognized by the hospital. Members pay dues. Of the 4,500 nurses employed by all UW's clinics and hospitals, 3,600 are frontline nurses and roughly 2,900 are not in management and are eligible to join the union. The union isn't releasing membership specifics, only saying it's "in the hundreds." The agreement gives the union direct access to hospital administrators through newly created "meet and discuss" committee meetings. These meetings have been held for two hours every other month. Nurses now are able to bring another nurse with them into disciplinary meetings, a practice common in union workplaces known as peer support. What isn't the union able to do? The union doesn't have the power to collectively bargain with hospital management for a contract, a key power and purpose of unions. Nurses have been using the meet and discuss committee to pursue wage and salary demands. They aren't satisfied with the progress. What do the two sides still disagree on? The two sides agreed to pursue an analysis from the Wisconsin Employment Relations Commission on whether the health system is required by law to recognize and collectively bargain with an employee union and, if it's not required to, if the hospital can do so voluntarily. In November, the commission ruled the hospital system isn't required by law to negotiate a collective bargaining contract or recognize its recently created nurses union. Both sides sought more legal clarity. UW Health subsequently petitioned the Wisconsin Supreme Court to obtain legal clarity on that same question. Court officials announced in February they wouldn't take up the case. The nurses union appealed the ruling issued by the WERC. What's next? The case is pending in Dane County Circuit Court. A ruling that found the hospital system legally can recognize the union and engage in the collective bargaining for a contract would be viewed as a win by the union. Jessica Van Egeren is the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's enterprise health care reporter. She can be reached at jvanegeren@gannett.com or (920) 213-5695. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: UW Health renew efforts for wage compensation, more union negotiating power Florida International University continued its rise up the new US News and World Report education rankings released Monday, while the University of Florida and the University of Miami went down in their respective categories. US News, an online magazine that has produced rankings since 1983, releases highly watched lists each year in several categories. The two most popular ones: a list of the best public and private universities, and a list ranking just the public universities. Heres what to know: Florida International University: Climbed from No. 72 last year to No. 64 this year among public universities. In the rankings released in 2021, FIU ranked No. 95. Among public and private universities, FIU placed No. 124 this year, an improvement from No. 151 last year. University of Miami: Fell from No. 55 last year to No. 67 this year among private and public universities. Moved up from No. 37 last year to No. 36 this year among private universities. University of Florida: Worked hard to break into the top five public universities in the U.S. and accomplished it in 2021, but dropped from No. 5 to No. 6 this year. Among public and private universities, UF got the No. 28 spot, up from 29. FROM 2022: FIU continues rapid rise in national rankings, UF and UM hold their spots Why did the college rankings change? The shake-up comes in part because US News drastically changed its methodology, facing backlash from some colleges and competition from other rankings, including one released by The Wall Street Journal, a newspaper; College Pulse, a nonprofit; and Statista, a market research firm. US News added metrics like first-generation graduation rates and eliminated others like the proportion of graduates who borrowed federal loans. Overall, US News rankings now focus more on social mobility and outcomes, similar to WSJ/College Pulse, which also changed this year to get rid of factors like the survey of academics on schools reputations. Student outcomes now account for 70% of the rankings. Heres how some Florida universities ranked on the WSJ/College Pulse rankings, released Sept. 6: University of Florida: 15th among public and private universities, first among only public universities. Florida International University: 29th among among public and private universities, fourth among only public universities. University of Miami: 90 among public and private universities. Reaction from UM and FIU presidents FIU President Kenneth Jessell told the Miami Herald on Monday that hes excited about the US News ranking, just like he is about others, including lists from WSJ, Washington Monthly and Degree Choices. But he cautioned the community to learn about each ranking before picking a favorite. Each one has a different methodology, so you just need to read them over and decide what is best for you as a parent or as a student, he said. Its not like one is better than the other; theyre just measuring different types of things. What Im excited about is that all of the rankings show that FIU is an amazing institution. FROM 2021: UF skyrockets to top 5, FIU soars 17 spots, while UM falls behind in college rankings Julio Frenk, president of the private University of Miami, provided that methodology analysis for the US News numbers in an email sent to UM trustees Monday. In the correspondence, provided to the Herald by the UM communications team, Frenk said that while theyre disappointed, they remain committed to their mission. The algorithms involved in rankings frequently change. In fact, in the case of USNWR, only two of all indicators used last year were preserved with the same weight, one of them being the reputation score, in which UM actually improved. Moreover, this year the publication changed its methodology to emphasize the goal of advancing student social mobility and socioeconomic diversity an approach that favors public institutions, particularly those serving comparatively large percentages of low-income students, he wrote. In Florida, for example, every public institution improved in the rankings, while every private institution declined. These trends hold nationally, with only 1 in 4 private universities retaining or improving their 2023 ranking, favoring those that have large endowments. How did other Florida universities do? Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) in Tallahassee moved up from No. 7 last year to No. 3 this year among Historically Black Colleges or Universities (HBCU). Because the top two schools are private, the Tallahassee-based university stands out as the top public HBCU in the nation. FAMU ranked No. 170 among public and private universities and No. 91 among public universities only. Florida Memorial University (FMU), a private institution in Miami Gardens, moved up from No. 45 last year to No. 43 this year among HBCUs. It moved down from No. 45 last year to No. 47 this year on the list of Regional Colleges South. Florida State University (FSU) in Tallahassee moved down from No. 19 last year to No. 23 this year among public universities. It moved up from No. 55 last year to No. 53 this year among public and private universities. The University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa moved down from No. 42 last year to No. 45 this year among public universities. USF also moved up from No. 97 last year to No. 89 this year among public and private universities. The University of Central Florida (UCF) in Orlando landed as 64th among public universities, same as last year, and as 124th among public and private universities, up from 137th last year. Nova Southeastern University, a private university based in Davie, moved down among public and private universities, from No. 219 last year to No. 227 this year. Keiser University, a private university based in Fort Lauderdale, moved down among public and private universities, from No. 219 last year to No. 249 this year. Barry University, a private university based in Miami Shores, slid. Last year, Barry placed between No. 331 and No. 440 among public and private universities; this year it ranked between No. 394 and No. 435. The range reflects a group of schools within this ranking. Miami Gardens-based St. Thomas University, a private school, slid. Last year, St. Thomas placed between No. 331 and No. 440 among public and private universities; this year it ranked between No. 394 and No. 435. The range reflects a group of schools within this ranking. New College of Florida in Sarasota dropped 24 points on the National Liberal Arts Colleges list from No. 76 last year to No. 100 this year. It ranked sixth among the public universities on that list, down from No. 5 last year. Latter-day Saints leave the Bentonville Arkansas Temple after the first dedicatory session in Bentonville, Arkansas, on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023. The session was part of a historic day as church leaders dedicated three temples on a single day for the first time. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News Apostles on two continents dedicated three temples Sunday, making it an historic day for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is the first time the church has had three temples dedicated in a single day. The three become the 180th, 181st and 182nd operating temples for the church, which is in its 194th year. It is a glorious day, Elder Andersen said, according to the Church News. The apostles said the temples represent Jesus Christ, his gospel and gathering Israel. The temple is a blessing and a gift and prepares us to rejoice in what the Savior has done for us, Elder Cook said, according to the Church News. How grateful we should be to live in this remarkable season of the latter-day dispensation of the fullness of times. We are blessed to witness and participate in the ongoing fulfillment of prophecies that holy houses of the Lord will dot the earth, Elder Bednar said, according to the Church News. In the temple, we are enrolled in an immersion tutorial of the language of the Spirit, Elder Andersen said. Latter-day Saints gather on the grounds of the Moses Lake Washington Temple following the first dedication ceremony in Moses Lake, Washington, on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023. The session was part of a historic day as church leaders dedicated three temples on a single day for the first time. | Brian Nicholson for the Deseret News The church is in the midst of a temple-building boom, with 48 temples under construction and plans announced for an additional 85. As a 12-year-old boy in 1964, I attended with my mother the dedication of the Oakland California Temple the 13th operating house of the Lord, Elder Bednar said. Today, just 59 years later, 315 temples are functioning, announced, in design, under construction or being renovated. President Russell M. Nelson has announced 133 of those temples over the past 65 months. He announced the Bentonville and Moses Lake temples in 2019. Prior to Sunday, the church had dedicated two temples on a single day five times once in 1999, three times in 2000 and again on Nov. 20, 2022. Which temples will be dedicated next? Three weeks from now, two temples will be dedicated on one day, on Oct. 8: Four more temples are scheduled for dedication: Bentonville Arkansas Temple dedication The Bentonville temple dedication was a homecoming for Elder Bednar and his wife, Sister Susan Bednar. They lived in the area with their three sons in the 1980s and 1990s, when Elder Bednar worked at the University of Arkansas as a professor of business management, associate dean for graduate studies and director of the Management Decision-Making Lab at what is now called the Sam Walton College of Business. Bentonville is the headquarters of Walmart, which Walton and his brother founded in 1962. Emily Stewart helps members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints put on shoe coverings before the enter the morning dedication session at the Bentonville Arkansas Temple in Bentonville, Arkansas, on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News Elder David A. Bednar of Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and his wife, Sister Susan Bednar, greet Sam and Mary Dunn outside the Bentonville Arkansas Temple on the day of its dedication Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023 in Bentonville, Arkansas. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News Attendees walk into the first dedicatory session for the Bentonville Arkansas Temple in Bentonville, Arkansas, on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News Attendees leave the first dedicatory session of the Bentonville Arkansas Temple in Bentonville, Arkansas, on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News Elder David A. Bednar of Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints greets attendees of the Bentonville Arkansas Temple dedication on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023, in Bentonville, Arkansas. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News The Bentonville Arkansas Temple at sunset in Bentonville, Arkansas, on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News The Bentonville Arkansas Temple at sunset in Bentonville, Arkansas, on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News The Bentonville Arkansas Temple in Bentonville, Arkansas, on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News Attendees leave the first dedicatory session of the Bentonville Arkansas Temple in Bentonville, Arkansas, on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Sister Susan Bednar, center, are joined by Elder Vern P. Stanfill, a General Authority Seventy and president of the Churchs North American Southeast Area and his wife, Sister Alicia Stanfill, left; and Elder Adeyinka A. Ojediran, a General Authority Seventy, and his wife, Sister Olufunmilayo Ojediran, right, at the Bentonville Arkansas Temple in Bentonville, Arkansas, on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News Attendees leave the first dedicatory session of the Bentonville Arkansas Temple in Bentonville, Arkansas, on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News Lucas Loftin waits to enter the Bentonville Arkansas Temple in Bentonville, Arkansas, on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News An entrance to the Bentonville Arkansas Temple in Bentonville, Arkansas, on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News Attendees walk into the Bentonville Arkansas Temple for its first dedicatory session in Bentonville, Arkansas, on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News President Nelson assigned Elder Bednar to the November 2020 groundbreaking for the Bentonville temple, to preside over the temples media day that launched the public open house in June and to dedicate the temple on Sunday. Elder Bednar said temples are part of the fundamental responsibility of Latter-day Saints, the Church News reported. Gathering Israel is the most important work in which any of us can be engaged. And the covenants received and the ordinances performed in the house of the Lord are central to the work of gathering, he said. We are to assist in the gathering of Israel by inviting all of Gods children on both sides of the veil to come unto their Savior, receive the blessings available in His holy house, have enduring joy and qualify for eternal life. Elder Bednar said each new temple is a source of joy for Latter-day Saints. Our primary focus should be on the covenants and ordinances that can change our hearts and deepen our devotion to the Savior and not simply on the location or beauty of the building, he said. Moses Lake Washington Temple dedication Church members gather on the grounds outside the Moses Lake Washington Temple following the second temple dedication ceremony in Moses Lake, Washington, on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023. | Brian Nicholson, for the Deseret News Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shakes hands with Calden Nielsen, 10, of Moses Lake outside the Moses Lake Washington Temple following the second temple dedication ceremony in Moses Lake, Wa., Sunday, September 17, 2023. Elder Cook followed up the handshake with a question about his plans to serve a mission. | Brian Nicholson, for the Deseret News In the heart of the farming country of central Washington, the Moses Lake Washington Temple was dedicated alongside rows of field corn and Interstate 90 in Moses Lake, Washington, on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023. | Brian Nicholson, for the Deseret News From left, Elder Mark A. Bragg, General Authority Seventy and president of the Churchs North America West Area, and his wife, Sister Yvonne Bragg; Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Sister Mary Cook; and Elder Shayne M. Bowen, General Authority Seventy and the assistant director of the Temple Department, and his wife, Sister Lynette Bowen, pose on the grounds of the Moses Lake Washington Temple in Moses Lake, Washington, Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023. | Brian Nicholson, for the Deseret News The Moses Lake Washington Temple basks in the late afternoon sunlight in Moses Lake, Washington, Friday, Sept. 15, 2023. | Brian Nicholson, for the Deseret News The Moses Lake Washington Temple in the twilight hours following the sunset in Moses Lake, Washington, Friday, Sept. 15, 2023. | Brian Nicholson, for the Deseret News Krit and Stephanie Moore pose for photos with their family at the new Moses Lake Washington Temple in Moses Lake, Washington, Friday, Sept. 15, 2023. | Brian Nicholson, for the Deseret News The Moses Lake Washington Temple basks in the late afternoon sunlight in Moses Lake, Washington, Friday, Sept. 15, 2023. | Brian Nicholson, for the Deseret News The Moses Lake Washington Temple basks in the late afternoon sunlight in Moses Lake, Washington, Friday, Sept. 15, 2023. | Brian Nicholson, for the Deseret News The Moses Lake Washington Temple basks in the late afternoon sunlight in Moses Lake, Washington, Friday, Sept. 15, 2023. | Brian Nicholson, for the Deseret News Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Sister Mary Cook, greet members outside the Moses Lake Washington Temple following the second temple dedication ceremony in Moses Lake, Wa., Sunday, September 17, 2023. | Brian Nicholson, for the Deseret News Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Sister Mary Cook, greet members outside the Moses Lake Washington Temple following the second temple dedication ceremony in Moses Lake, Wa., Sunday, September 17, 2023. | Brian Nicholson, Brian Nicholson, for the Deseret News Rodrigo Ceja hugs family members on the temple grounds following first of two dedication ceremonies of the Moses Lake Washington Temple in Moses Lake, Wa., Sunday, September 17, 2023. | Brian Nicholson for the Deseret News Attendees gather on the grounds of the Moses Lake Washington Temple following the first dedication ceremony in Moses Lake, Wa., Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023. | Brian Nicholson for the Deseret News Elder Cook previously served as president of the churchs North America Northwest Area, which included Washington state. He also participated with the late President Gordon B. Hinckley at the dedication of the Columbia River Washington Temple, in 2001. Elder Cook quoted President Nelsons 2018 invitation to Latter-day Saints to increase the time they spend at temples. Building and maintaining temples may not change your life, but spending your time in the temple surely will, President Nelson said. Our need to be in the temple on a regular basis has never been greater, President Nelson added. I plead with you to take a prayerful look at how you spend your time. Invest time in your future and in that of your family. If you have reasonable access to a temple, I urge you to find a way to make an appointment regularly with the Lord to be in his holy house then keep that appointment with exactness and joy. Elder Cook tweeted about Latter-day Saint doctrine on how temples connect family members to each other and God. ... the whole human family is interdependent and interconnected like the roots and branches of a great tree. The work performed in the Lords temples allows us and our families to be eternally connected to our loving Heavenly Father, he said in his tweet. Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles greets members of the Allred families from Royal City, Washington, after he dedicated the Moses Lake Washington Temple on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023. | Brian Nicholson, for the Deseret News Brasilia Brazil Temple dedication Elder Andersen also has strong ties to Brazil, where he served as Brazil South Area president for the church 20 years ago. He has been back many times on church assignments. Earlier this year, he and Sister Kathy Andersen visited the Brasilia temple and met with Brazils first lady, Rosangela Lula da Silva. Brasilia was created in 1956 specifically to be Brazils capital. The Brasilia temple will be the churchs 10th in the country, which now is home to nearly 1.5 million Latter-day Saints. An additional 10 temples in Brazil have been announced or are under construction. Elder Andersen said each temple is sacred. This is the house of the Lord. It is a sacred place unlike anywhere else. It is nestled between heaven and earth, he said, adding that, In the temple we feel a peace not available anywhere else in the world. Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles greets Latter-day Saints after the dedication of the Brasilia Brazil Temple on Sept. 17, 2023. | The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Elders Adilson de Paula Parrella, Kevin R. Duncan, Neil L. Andersen and Mark D. Eddy stand in front of the Brasilia Brazil Temple after dedicating it on Sept. 17, 2023. | The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Elder Neil L. Andersen and Sister Kathy Andersen stand in front of the Brasilia Brazil Temple on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023. | The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Elder Andersen also said temple ordinances help church members increase their understanding of life. As we bring our ancestors beyond the veil the holy ordinances they desire, and as the holy endowment is presented to us each time we are here, the eyes of our understanding our opened, he said. We better see the purposes of our being on earth. He tweeted Sunday evening about dedicating the Brasilia temple and the difference all temples can make. I invite all of us to come to the temple when you are troubled with challenges in your family, he said. Come when decisions confront you. When the world seems burdensome and you seek peace. When you seem defeated and you need added power. Come when you are happy, and all seems well. Come without being asked. Come when you are not in a hurry. Come having forgiven those who have offended you. Come believing. As we do, the Lords Spirit will be with us and the beauties of the eternities will be ours. The Lords house is a sacred place between heaven and earth where we better come to know our Father and His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ. I was reminded of this today as I had the special privilege of being assigned by President Russell M. Nelson to dedicate the Brasilia Brazil pic.twitter.com/FguW7gS954 Neil L. Andersen (@AndersenNeilL) September 18, 2023 Brooks Roberts' life has been difficult the past few years. The pandemic left the 38-year-old and his family homeless. Disability, job losses and an eviction all struck at the same time, sending them on a downward spiral into poverty. His mother lost her feet to frostbite and now uses prosthetics to walk. And a 2022 work injury left Roberts unsteady on his legs and in a wheelchair. After being kicked out of their apartment, the family lived in an RV camper, moving from trailhead to trailhead on public lands for the past three years. They were living in a national forest in May when the U.S. Forest Service and a barrage of law enforcement tried to arrest the family for camping on public land longer than allowed. Roberts was shot and the injury left him paralyzed from the waist down. As cities and states across the country pass ordinances cracking down on camping and homelessness, the Robertses' eviction from the forest has become a high-profile example of an unhoused American facing harm at the hands of law enforcement while being poor and having no place else to go. In response to the shooting, lawyers filed a personal injury tort claim on behalf of Roberts against the federal government for $50 million, representing a lifetime's worth of lost earnings due to his condition. "Forest Service officers needlessly and recklessly shot Mr. Roberts repeatedly, causing him extreme suffering and permanent disability," said Ritchie Eppink, one of Roberts' lawyers. The shooting occurred after Roberts, who had a .22 revolver with him, pointed his weapon at the two plainclothes officers after they confronted his brother. He did not fire, police body camera footage shows. After seeing Brooks Roberts' gun, officers unleashed a storm of gunfire on him, the footage shows. Since Idaho is an open carry state, Roberts was within his rights to be holding the weapon. The U.S. Department of Agriculture, which includes the U.S. Forest Service, declined to respond to a request for comment from USA TODAY, citing the ongoing litigation. Related: Ticketed for being homeless? Supreme Court asked to weigh if punishment is 'cruel and unusual' Officials shoot homeless man multiple times, including in the back U.S. Forest Service officers allegedly fired at Roberts more than 10 times, shooting him in the back while he lay immobile on the ground on May 19, according to body camera footage viewed by USA TODAY and the tort claim. Brooks Roberts spent months in the hospital recovering after being shot by federal agents because he was homeless, his lawyers claim. The 38-year-old is now permanently paralyzed below the waist due to the attack. The Roberts family is part of Idaho's unhoused population. Around 2,000 people experienced homelessness there in 2022, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Overall, homelessness in the state increased by 14.2% in the past 15 years, according to the department. The state has one of the higher unsheltered homelessness rates in the nation, HUD data shows, with nearly half (44%) of unhoused Idahoans living outdoors or in vehicles in 2022. In Idaho's Payette National Forest, and across the country, the U.S. Forest Service has historically managed public lands, conserved natural resources and provided "quality water and timber for the nations benefit," the agency's website says. The agency's law enforcement division is "charged with protecting the public, employees, and natural resources," according to its website. "After I got shot, my main feeling was, 'am I going to survive this?'" Roberts said. "Because I knew that if it killed me, my mom and my brother would basically commit suicide because of the grief of losing me." Roberts spent months recovering in the hospital and has lived in a small budget hotel room with his mother for the past five weeks. It's very hard to still not have a "stable roof over" their heads, he said, and he's worried they'll be back "out on the sidewalk" when what little money they have runs out. The extreme use of force used against Roberts by federal officers sends a clear message from the federal government that unhoused people are less deserving of their right to life, said Eric Tars, legal director of the National Homelessness Law Center. "This is the message from the top," Tars said. Arrested for being homeless on public land The shooting happened as part of a sting operation in which plainclothes officers tried to serve an arrest warrant for the family's unsanctioned camping in Payette National Forest, north of Boise. Officers tried to serve arrest warrants for Roberts and his mother and brother, accusing all three of the low-level misdemeanor of camping on public lands longer than allowed, said Craig Durham one of Roberts' lawyers. His brother, 35-year-old Timber Roberts, also had an arrest warrant for disorderly conduct, according to Durham. He was jailed for the misdemeanors and has been behind bars since then. The attempt to arrest the Roberts family in May escalated because authorities snuck up on the family and pretended to be members of the public, the tort claim says. Plainclothes officers from the U.S. Forest Service arrived at the family's camper in an unmarked pickup and knocked on the RV's front door, saying they needed help jumpstarting their vehicle, body camera footage shows. The tort claim states the violence that ensued stemmed from a "wildly dangerous ruse operation that needlessly jeopardized the lives and safety of the public." After Timber Roberts came outside to help the two men jumpstart their truck, the officers took him to the ground and said they were arresting him. Timber Roberts yelled toward the camper saying he needed help, and Brooks Roberts wheeled out of the RV, thinking, "I got to get out there and help him," he said. "I thought he was being carjacked and that they either could have stabbed or shot him. I thought they were carjackers," he said. 'I didn't know you guys were cops' In addition to the U.S. Forest Service, more than a dozen law enforcement officials from the Bureau of Land Management, McCall Police Department, and the Idaho Department of Fish and Game were involved in the operation, Durham said. They had the RV surrounded but didn't make their presence known to either Brooks or Timber Roberts until it was too late, lawyers said. All the agencies declined to comment to USA TODAY on the case. During the shooting, Robert's gun was flung from his hand and he fell to the ground. Officers identified themselves to Roberts after firing at him more than 10 times, telling him to put his hands where they could see them. Tents are seen at a homeless encampment in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood of Washington, D.C., on March 14, 2022. "I'm sorry, I thought my brother was being attacked," Brooks Roberts said after he realized the people were police. "I didn't know you guys were cops." Looking back on the shooting months later, Brooks Roberts said he's "royally pissed" that federal officers didn't properly announce themselves before opening fire. With the planned lawsuit, he said the money he's seeking will make up for the lost income he'll suffer as a result of his disability. "It needs to be a federal law that any cop caught harassing a homeless person gets arrested and put in jail for at least a month," Brooks Roberts said. 'We had done nothing wrong except being homeless' When Brooks Roberts was shot multiple times by federal law enforcement, the family was just trying to survive and save enough money to get into an apartment, he said. The government made that task more difficult by garnishing his mom's social security disability checks for nonpayment of camping tickets, which they incurred because of living in an RV, she said in a news release. "We had done nothing wrong except being homeless and being stuck where we were," Brooks Roberts said. "It wasn't like we chose to be there. We got snowed in and got stuck and had nowhere to go." "All I could think of was how much it hurt," he said of the day of the shooting. The shooting left him with "searing pain," 11 bullet holes in his body and lead lodged in his spine. He said he feels angry that he's "a burden" to his family members because he needs help doing basic tasks. What the federal government labeled "camping" was "very much not an existence that they wanted," Durham said, who added that the family could not find space to live in homeless shelters. "It was harsh, difficult, destabilizing and lacking in necessities," he said. Many homeless people live in fear of police across US Across the country this year, city police departments have been enforcing a growing number of camping bans, leading to arrests and fines for unhoused people living on the streets. Sweeps of tent encampments in cities like Los Angeles have felt like a whack-a-mole game in recent months, homeless advocates say, forcing people to constantly live in fear of crackdowns. In Idaho, the Roberts family was forced to move their camper roughly every two weeks to comply with ordinances on camping, their lawyers said. Still, Forest Service authorities and officers from the Bureau of Land Management spent a considerable amount of resources trying to arrest them, Brooks Roberts' lawyers argue. A homeless outreach worker and New York police officer assist passengers found sleeping on subway cars at the 207th Street A-train station, Thursday, April 30, 2020, in the Manhattan borough of New York. Usually, authorities issue tickets and fines, and would only coordinate with other agencies for larger encampment evictions, Tar said. "Ive been doing this work for almost two decades, and Ive never heard of federal law enforcement using all these resources from multiple agencies just to target a single family for arrest for unsanctioned camping, Tars said. The extreme force used against the Roberts family sets a bad example for other police departments across the country struggling to deal with the homelessness crises in their own backyards, Tars said. "This is the message that is being received by police departments across the country, that this is an appropriate way to address homelessness," he said. Aside from trained law enforcement, Tars said he's worried about members of the general public who might try to apprehend unhoused people as vigilantes. "When people see federal police, and state and local police treat people experiencing homelessness as though they're less deserving of their right to life, then this is the kind of thing that we can expect to see more of," Tars said. Camping bans led to misdemeanor charges At the time of the shooting, the Roberts family had already secured lawyers to argue on their behalf so they could stay in their camper, according to the tort claim. The family also had a social worker who was helping with their search for more stable housing. Lawyers claim federal agents "collaborated to trick the family," instead of informing the Robertses' court-appointed attorneys of their most recent warrants, the tort claim reads. Brooks Roberts and his mom still have camping misdemeanor charges pending against them and are raising money on GoFundMe to afford a rental home. They are scheduled for a court hearing in October. In December, the White House Interagency Council on Homelessness criticized the rise in camping bans in some U.S. cities, arguing they criminalize homelessness without getting people into shelters or housing. The council also said it would "combat" local "laws which criminalize homelessness" as part of its long-term plan to solve the homelessness crisis. The group's stated goals for reducing homelessness stand in stark contrast to instances where federal officers have used force against unhoused people or sent them to jail, Tars said. A police officer explains why he's giving a ticket to a man who was camping outside a Fort Collins, Co., emergency shelter set up to aid people experiencing homelessness during the coronavirus outbreak in April 2020. In February, federal law enforcement also cleared longtime unhoused residents from Washington, D.C.'s McPherson Square, which falls within federal jurisdiction. The sweep resulted in two people being sent to jail, and most of the residents remained unhoused as of June, The Washington Post reported. In a statement, the White House Interagency Council on Homelessness said they defer questions about Roberts' tort claim to the agencies directly involved. "On paper, the federal government has put out great guidance saying we should do exactly the opposite, that criminalization of homelessness is bad policy," Tars said. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Homeless man shot by police while living on national forest land Two more car companies are joining the ranks of legacy automakers who will add Teslas electric vehicle charging technology to their EVs. Honda and Acura have just announced that they will add North American Charging Standard ports to their cars. The CEO of Honda and Acura (Hondas luxury brand) confirmed during an interview with Autoblog that they would begin adding NACS ports to their future EV models. It is quite important, American Honda Motor Co. President and CEO Noriya Kaihara said. We also have to push NACS, as well. It is clear. Although NACS started as Teslas proprietary charging system, competing with the Combined Charging System used by every other North American EV, Tesla has since convinced a growing number of companies to switch over and make their EVs compatible with NACS instead of CCS. (Slightly confusingly, in Europe, Tesla uses CCS.) Those companies include Ford, General Motors, Mercedes-Benz, and now Honda. Tesla and NACS also just won a major battle, as Texas approved plans to ensure that NACS chargers are included at all of the states federally funded EV charging stations. As far as when Honda and Acura will begin integrating NACS ports into their vehicles, the companies are at the mercy of General Motors, as both of their upcoming EVs the Honda Prologue and the Acura ZDX will rely on GMs Ultium battery hardware. Therefore, whenever GM gets around to including NACS tech, Honda will as well. The transition is expected to take place in 2025 or 2026. American Hondas Vice President of Sustainability and Business Development Jay Joseph provided some context to Autoblog about what prompted the company to make the switch. If you look at whats so great about the Tesla Supercharger network, its the maintenance, he said. They stay on top of it, theyve got someone onsite monitoring the equipment, theyre monitoring it electronically and remotely, and they fix it fast. Thats probably the most important thing. Join our free newsletter for cool news and actionable info that makes it easy to help yourself while helping the planet. Tuesday marks four years since a 6-year-old Orlando girl was arrested after her family said she had a tantrum in her classroom. The body cam video received national attention, showing Kaia Rolle being arrested for misdemeanor battery and escorted in tears to the back of a patrol car by Orlando police officers. Rolles family announced Monday in a news conference they plan to move forward with legal actionwhile also asking for more change at the state level. The family filed an amended complaint in their lawsuit against the city of Orlando, former Chief Orlando Rolon and officers involved in the arrest. The lawsuit alleges 6-year-old Kaia Rolles civil rights were violated, that she was falsely arrested in September 2019 and that the officers used excessive force. It was horrific for us, said Meralyn Kirkland, Kaias grandmother. In amended portion of the suit, the family alleges the city of Orlandos practices and policies, including the hiring and training of these officers, allowed for Kaias arrest. Ive never seen a child with her hands bound at the age of six, walked out by a man three times the size of her, said the familys lawyer, Bobby DiCello. School Resource Officer Dennis Turner was terminated by Orlando Police in September 2019, shortly after Kaias arrest. Kirkland said Kaia still struggles emotionally from the impacts of the arrest. Kaia is no longer the Kaia I know. But Kaia is a fighter, Kirkland said. The family along with the Southern Poverty Law Center is asking the Florida legislators to amend the law in the childs name, Kaia Rolle Act. In 2021, the law took effect, prohibiting a child younger than 7 years old from being arrested or charged with a violation of law, with the exception of a forcible felony. The family says the age limit should be raised to at least 14. Life has not yet given them the experiences to form the criminal intent or process the mental capacity and competency to have the same level of copiability, said Bacardi Jackson, interim deputy legal director for childrens rights at the Southern Poverty Law Center. According to data from the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, 2,085 children under the age of 12 were detained in Florida last fiscal year. It made up about 5 percent of juvenile arrests. Kirkland says the law in her granddaughters name no longer protects her. She aged-out of the law just months after it passed. If there is any way I can prevent even a handful, one other child, from suffering what Kaia suffered, one other family from what our family endured, I would feel good about it, Kirkland said. Channel 9 reached out to the City of Orlando for comment, but the city declined, citing pending litigation. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. House Republicans proposed short-term spending bill is facing internal opposition that could sink the measure and complicate the conferences attempt to show unity in its opening offer to the Senate and White House. The stopgap bill to avoid a shutdown, which was unveiled Sunday night, got an icy reception from the right flank of the slim House GOP majority. Enough members have said that they are against the continuing resolution (CR) plan to block it on the House floor, even though leaders hope to bring it up this week. A CR is a continuation of Nancy Pelosis budget and Joe Bidens policies. We were assured in January that we werent going to use the Democrats gimmicks to fund government and that we would deliver the 12 appropriations bills, thereby funding government responsibly and transparently, which is why I will be voting against the CR this week, Rep. Matt Rosendale (R-Mont.) wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. The plan to keep the government open past Sept. 30 extends funding for a month and pairs spending cuts and border crackdown measures. It was developed by leaders in the House GOPs Main Street Caucus, a group that bills themselves as pragmatic conservatives, and the hard-line conservative House Freedom Caucus. WHIP LIST: House GOP fights to win over members on stopgap to prevent shutdown But despite the involvement of those leaders, many hard-line conservatives including those in the House Freedom Caucus remain skeptical of the plan. At least 12 GOP lawmakers have come out against the legislation or are leaning against it. NO, Rep. Eli Crane (R-Ariz.) succinctly wrote on X after the proposal was rolled out. Pass the damn approps bills. Roll back the crazy bureaucracy to pre-COVID levels. Now, Dan Bishop (R-N.C.) wrote on X. Republican Reps. Andy Biggs (Ariz.), Marjorie Taylor Greene (Ga.), Tim Burchett (Tenn.), Matt Gaetz (Fla.), Ralph Norman (S.C.), Anna Paulina Luna (Fla.), Ken Buck (Colo.), Victoria Spartz (Ind.), Andy Ogles (Tenn.), Bishop, Crane and Rosendale have either said they will vote against the legislation or are leaning against it. Norman brought up the longtime request from hard-line conservatives to further cut topline spending across all 12 appropriations bills, and come up with a plan for all of them before proceeding on any additional government funding. Asked Monday morning if he has the votes to pass the CR proposal, Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) told reporters dont know. Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), one of the Freedom Caucus leaders who helped craft the agreement, praised the plan and expressed disappointment in his fellow hardline conservatives for opposing it. Unfortunately, some of my colleagues dont think thats good enough. They want to hide behind some other rhetoric. They want to hide behind, Oh, we need to do more on DOJ or do more on this or that or the other, Roy said on the Guy Benson radio show on Monday. Theres no Ukraine supplemental. Theres no disaster emergency supplemental. Theres simply a strong bill that would do what we need to do to ratchet back the federal bureaucracy thats been at odds with the American people and force their hand on the border, which is a strong national message, Roy said. I think thats a win. I think thats a place to go push to force the Democrats to have to react. Even if the bill gets through the House, it is highly unlikely that the Democratic-controlled Senate and White House accept the legislation as is, with steep cuts and border policies they oppose. The bill would fund the government through Oct. 31 but cut all discretionary department spending outside of Defense and Veterans Affairs by about 8 percent. It also includes the bulk of the House GOPs H.R. 2 border crackdown bill that President Biden said he would veto. Rep. Rosa DeLauro (Conn.), the top Democrat on the Appropriations Committee, ripped the proposal Sunday night, accusing House Republicans of wanting to shut down the government. Less than two weeks away from a government shutdown, House Republicans are still more focused on introducing extreme funding bills that would cut funding to the National Institutes of Health including funding for cancer research, defund the police, and decrease resources to important allies like Ukraine and Israel than working on bipartisan solution that could be enacted, DeLauro said in a statement. But the bill is meant to show a united front among House Republicans and be an opening offer in negotiations to keep the government open past Sept. 30 echoing the conferences strategy from earlier this year revolving around the debt ceiling increase. The House passed a GOP bill that paired a debt ceiling increase with policy changes before McCarthy struck a different deal with President Biden. Hard-line conservatives, though, later expressed outrage about that deal. The House Rules Committee is scheduled to take up the CR legislation Monday. The current plan is for the House to vote on a Pentagon appropriations bill which GOP leaders were forced to punt last week due to hard-line conservative opposition Wednesday, and the continuing resolution Thursday, a source on a Sunday night House GOP call confirmed to The Hill. If every member of the House votes and all Democrats oppose the bill, the House GOP can afford to lose only four votes and pass the bill. A few GOP members, however, are expected to be absent due to personal circumstances, further complicating the math for the GOP. But in a sign of the high-stakes nature surrounding the appropriations process, Luna who had a baby in August and just got over a four-day-long fever and infection said she will return to Washington to vote against the continuing resolution if needed. If Im needed, Im coming, Luna told The Hill, adding that she will fly to vote no because I know how important this is. It is possible that some or many of the initial nos and lean nos on the legislation change their minds as they evaluate its contents. One conservative outside group that has allied with hard-line conservatives expressed support for the plan. The proposed CR represents a strong consensus between conservatives and moderates in the House Republican Conference. We support the negotiated spending cuts and urge all members of the House to get behind the CR, FreedomWorks President Adam Brandon said in a statement. However, we need to recognize that discretionary spending is less than a third of all federal outlays, and we need Republicans and Democrats to come together to solve the inevitable debt crisis thats coming. Heritage Action, the advocacy arm of the prominent conservative think tank, also came out in support of the CR deal on Monday. [T]his deal achieves major policy victories while giving conservatives the best possible negotiating position for long-term spending cuts and reforms, Heritage Action Acting Executive Director Ryan Walker said in a statement. This House deal is a productive first step in keeping the federal budget accountable to the American people. Lawmakers must follow through on their promises to secure the border by supporting this spending agreement. Not only would this deal deliver on key border security policies, but it would also force the White House and Democrats to choose between continuing their self-inflicted crisis at the border or shutting down the government. Updated at 4:02 pm. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Editors note: The debt limit deal signed into law in June requires a 1 percent cut across the board if all 12 appropriations bills are not passed by Jan. 1, 2024. An earlier version of this story misstated the date. Two critical factions of the House Republican Conference reached agreement on a bill to avoid a government shutdown for another month, cutting discretionary spending for the duration, along with the bulk of a House GOP bill to change policies at the border. The hope is to bring the continuing resolution (CR) deal, crafted by leaders in the Main Street Caucus and House Freedom Caucus, to the House floor this week. But even if it passes the House, it faces slim odds of passing in the Democratic-controlled Senate and being signed into law by the White House and signs emerged on Sunday night that the plan faces an uphill battle getting through the slim House GOP majority. The deal would avoid a looming Oct. 1 shutdown by funding the government through Oct. 31, keeping Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs at current levels while cutting all discretionary spending by 8 percent. Along with that, it would include the House GOPs H.R. 2 border crackdown bill minus its provisions about requiring E-Verify. It does not include disaster relief funds or funding for Ukraine from the White Houses supplemental funding request in August, which it had proposed attaching to a continuing resolution. In addition, the agreement is also to pass an appropriations bill to fund the Department of Defense (DOD) for fiscal 2024 in tandem with the CR bill, according to a GOP source. House GOP leadership was forced to punt plans to put the DOD bill on the House floor last week due to hard-line conservatives planning to sink the procedural vote to allow for its consideration, in protest of wanting steeper cuts across all other appropriations bills. The CR bill is led by Reps. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.); Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), chair of the Main Street Caucus, a pragmatic conservative group; Scott Perry (R-Pa.), chair of the hard-line conservative House Freedom Caucus; Stephanie Bice (R-Okla.), vice chair of the Main Street Caucus; Chip Roy (R-Texas); and Kelly Armstrong (R-N.D.). HFC Members have worked over the weekend with the Main Street Caucus on a path forward to fund the government and secure Americas border. We now have a framework for our colleagues across the House Republican Conference, Perry said in a statement. The House Rules Committee is scheduled to take up the legislation on Monday. The current plan is for the House to vote on the Pentagon appropriations bill Wednesday and the continuing resolution on Thursday, a source on the call confirmed to The Hill. But soon after a House GOP conference call ended on Sunday evening, it became clear that the plan which is expected to be universally opposed by Democrats has some major issues in getting enough support in the razor-thin House GOP majority. Enough GOP lawmakers to potentially sink the plan expressed opposition to the bill on Sunday evening. Rep. Dan Bishop (R-N.C.) wrote on X that he was opposed to the bill, as did Rep. Matt Rosendale (R-Mont.). We were assured in January that we werent going to use the Democrats gimmicks to fund government and that we would deliver the 12 appropriations bills, thereby funding government responsibly and transparently, which is why I will be voting against the CR this week, Rosendale wrote on X. So did Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), saying: I will NOT surrender. Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) told The Hill that he will not vote for the legislation, adding that he does not think that it has the votes to pass. And Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) laid out a series of questions following the Sunday night email, bringing up the longtime request from hardline conservatives to further cut topline spending across all 12 appropriations bills. My questions are these, 1) what is the top line # for all 12 Appropriation bills net of any rescissions ? Will leadership go to the mat and not cede power regardless of the days of the shutdown? Why are we not working on passing all 12 appropriations NOW!! Norman told The Hill in a text message. Congressional leaders of both parties and chambers are aiming to pass a continuing resolution to buy more time to complete the appropriations process through regular order, which includes passing all 12 appropriations bills and getting them signed into law. Both chambers, however, are far behind: The House has only cleared one measure, and the Senate has passed none. But the clock is ticking: Included in the debt limit deal signed into law in June was a provision that said if all 12 appropriations bills are not passed by Jan. 1, 2024, a 1 percent cut would be made across the board. Upping the pressure, however, is the fact that the two chambers marked up their bills at different levels, setting the scene of a House vs. Senate clash that could once again bring Congress to the brink of a shutdown. The Senate is marking up its bills in line with the caps set in the debt limit deal, plus roughly $14 billion in additional emergency funding, while the House is moving ahead at levels far lower than the debt limit agreement. Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) indicated on Foxs Sunday Morning Futures earlier Sunday that he would bring the Defense funding bill to the floor, and he projected optimism about getting an agreement this week. I gave them an opportunity this weekend to try to work through this, and well bring it to the floor, win or lose, and show the American public whos for the Department of Defense, whos for our military, whos for giving them a pay raise and whos for making sure we can take the wokeism out, McCarthy said. This story was updatd at 9:33 p.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The House this week will look to take up a GOP-crafted continuing resolution to fund the government beyond Sept. 30 the conferences opening move in Congresss quest to avoid an end-of-the-month shutdown. A coalition of Republicans announced an internal deal for the stopgap bill Sunday night that would extend the funding deadline by a month, cut all spending except for the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs, and enact a large part of the House GOPs marquee border bill, H.R. 2. But a number of conservatives are already voicing opposition to the legislation, setting the scene for another tricky math problem for Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) as he looks to secure a stronger position in eventual negotiations with Senate Democrats and the White House over avoiding a shutdown. To be sure, the proposal for a stopgap bill is likely dead on arrival in the Democratic-controlled Senate because of the spending cuts and border provisions included. But the legislation, nonetheless, marks the House GOPs first move in the process to avert a shutdown. On the Senate side, lawmakers this week will look to move forward on a package of appropriations bills after a GOP senator objected to the bundle last week, mucking up the process, which has been largely bipartisan. Also this week, Attorney General Merrick Garland will face some of his fiercest GOP opponents when he testifies before the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday one week after Hunter Biden was prosecuted, and months after McCarthy floated an impeachment inquiry involving the top official. House GOP to take up continuing resolution House GOP leadership is eyeing a vote this week on a continuing resolution to keep the government open past Sept. 30 but whether the legislation has enough support in the conference remains to be seen. Two factions in the House GOP conference the conservative Freedom Caucus and the pragmatic conservative Main Street Caucus announced a deal on a continuing resolution Sunday night. The stopgap bill would fund the government through Oct. 31, keep the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs at current levels and cut all discretionary spending by 8 percent. It also includes the House GOPs border bill, dubbed H.R. 2, without its provision about E-Verify. The agreement is also to pass legislation to fund the Pentagon, which GOP leaders had to punt on last week after conservatives planned to block consideration of the measure over demands for deeper spending cuts. It does not, however, include any funding for Ukraine or disaster relief funds, which the White House had requested as part of a supplemental with the idea of attaching it to a continuing resolution. The plan is to vote on the Pentagon appropriations bill Wednesday and the continuing resolution Thursday, according to a source on a call with Republican lawmakers. But a number of conservatives quickly lined up against the legislation, putting into question whether or not it will have enough GOP votes to pass. Democrats are likely to oppose the legislation the top Democrat on the Appropriations Committee sharply criticized it Sunday meaning McCarthy will have to wrangle enough votes from his party. At least seven conservatives have either definitively said they will not support the legislation, or they have raised issues with it. For months, I have made it very clear that I will not be supporting a CR. And this week is no different. A CR is a continuation of Nancy Pelosis budget and Joe Bidens policies. We were assured in January that we werent going to use the Democrats gimmicks to fund government and that we would deliver the 12 appropriations bills, thereby funding government responsibly and transparently, which is why I will be voting against the CR this week, Rep. Matt Rosendale (R-Mont.) wrote on X. The proposal from House Republicans comes as time is running out to avert an end-of-the-month shutdown: The lower chamber is scheduled to be in session for just eight more legislative days before the deadline. Senate charts unknown course ahead on minibus amid GOP opposition The Senate this week will look to move ahead on a package of appropriations known as a minibus after conservatives objected to the legislation last week, mucking up the process, which up until this point has been largely bipartisan. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) last Thursday refused to grant consent to begin voting on amendments for the minibus which would fund military construction and the departments of Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, Transportation and Housing and Urban Development putting the process on hold and sparking criticism from both sides of the aisle. Johnson is demanding that the minibus which includes three appropriations bills be broken up into separate bills. Doing so, however, would likely take the Senate weeks to consider the legislation. Members cannot have it both ways. They cannot block floor consideration of appropriations bills that were unanimously reported by the committee and yet maintain they dont want an omnibus bill. Its one or the other or a government shutdown, even worse, Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), the vice chairwoman of the Appropriations Committee, said on the Senate floor. And now all of a sudden you have a group, a small group in the Senate, trying to mimic [the] Freedom Caucus in the House and holding up the defense bill, which had huge bipartisan support, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) said. Republican leaders have to reject this MAGA Republicanism for the good of the country and for the good of their party. Johnsons objection came after the Senate split 85-12 on a cloture vote for the minibus. The path forward, however, will likely remain unknown until Tuesday at the earliest, after senators huddle for their weekly lunches, a Senate GOP aide told The Hill. The Senate on Monday is scheduled to vote on a judicial nominee. In a post on X last Friday, the Wisconsin Republican pointed to the ballooning deficit when making his case for splitting up the bills. We are $33 trillion in debt, this years deficit will exceed $1.7 trillion, and we will spend $1.9 trillion more than we spent in FY2019. Spending is out-of-control. A minibus 3 weeks before fiscal years end is not regular order, but debating and passing Milcon/VA would be. Johnson wrote. Garland to face GOP critics in House hearing Garland will come face-to-face with some of top Republican opponents this week when he appears before the House Judiciary Committee months after McCarthy floated an impeachment inquiry involving the chief law enforcement officer. The hearing scheduled for Wednesday at 10 a.m. is being billed as oversight of the Department of Justice (DOJ) that will examine how the Justice Department has become politicized and weaponized under Garlands leadership. It will likely cover the legal proceedings surrounding Hunter Biden amid allegations from GOP lawmakers that the DOJ treated him with more leniency because he is the presidents son. The hearing comes the week after Hunter Biden was indicted on three gun-related charges. Prosecutors announced a plea deal involving Hunter Biden in June, but it fell apart the next month, leading to his eventual indictment. It also comes the week after McCarthy launched an impeachment inquiry into President Biden. The potential impeachment inquiry involving Garland rests on testimony House Republicans heard from a pair of IRS whistleblowers in July who accused authorities of slow-walking the case against Hunter Biden and showing preferential treatment to the presidents son. One of the whistleblowers, IRS supervisor Gary Shapley, said U.S. Attorney for Delaware David Weiss sought but was denied special counsel status for the Hunter Biden case. However, Weiss, who allegedly tried to bring charges outside Delaware, has denied ever asking for special counsel status and maintains that he was told he could receive special attorney status through another statute if he wanted to file charges outside his district. Garlands testimony also comes as Republican-led investigations in the House are requesting information from the attorney general as part of their probes. Last week, the House Judiciary Committee, House Oversight and Accountability Committee and House Ways and Means Committee sent Garland a letter asking about information on any attempts to pressure the DOJ to prosecute the pair of IRS whistleblowers. Emily Brooks and Al Weaver contributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A total of 109 suspects, including 11 fugitives, who were involved in wire fraud were transferred from Myanmar to Chinese custody on Saturday, China's Ministry of Public Security announced Sunday. The transfer of the suspects was part of the cross-border law enforcement cooperation between China and Myanmar targeting wire fraud. Previously, China has received 1,482 wire fraud suspects, including 58 fugitives, who were apprehended abroad. Chinese police, particularly public security authorities in the city of Pu'er in southwest China's Yunnan Province, have been enhancing cooperation with law enforcement authorities in Myanmar to tackle wire fraud. So far, their joint efforts have yielded remarkable results. Currently, the Ministry of Public Security has ordered relevant local police departments to receive the suspects and launch investigations into the cases they were involved in, so as to discover the links of their criminal activities and maintain the high pressure on relevant crimes. WASHINGTON With the House no closer to avoiding a potential government shutdown in less than two weeks, two key factions of House Republicans have crafted a short-term, stopgap measure called a continuing resolution that would temporarily fund the government through Oct. 31. The bill, sponsored by members of the conservative House Freedom Caucus and the more moderate Main Street Caucus, would impose an 8% spending cut on federal agencies, but that doesn't include national defense budget, the Department of Veterans Affairs and amounts designated for disaster relief. The temporary measure would also include border security provisions that have been on conservative wish lists during the ongoing spending fight. But whether the continuing resolution can pass in the House and the Senate remains to be seen. The bill also doesnt include provisions on Ukraine aid or extra funds for disaster relief, which President Joe Biden requested Congress approve. Representatives from both parties have also blasted the potential compromise. Its crystal clear a Govt shutdown is coming. I represent 66% of the Texas-Mexico border a hollow Continuing Resolution built to win a messaging battle does nothing to keep America safe, Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-Texas, wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. Rep. Dan Bishop, R-N.C., wrote on X, No CR. Pass the damn approps bills. Roll back the crazy bureaucracy to pre-COVID levels. Now. But on the other side of the aisle, Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn., also called the continuing resolution extreme in a statement. Less than two weeks away from a government shutdown, House Republicans are still more focused on introducing extreme funding bills that would cut funding to the National Institutes of Health including funding for cancer research, defund the police, and decrease resources to important allies like Ukraine and Israel than working on bipartisan solution that could be enacted, DeLauro said. The gridlock in the House over the appropriations fight comes at the same time House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who announced an impeachment inquiry into Biden last week, faces threats to be removed as speaker. In an interview on Fox News' "Sunday Morning Futures," McCarthy said a shutdown "would only give strength to Democrats." "It would give the power to Biden. It wouldnt pay our troops," McCarthy said. "It wouldnt pay our border agents. More people would be coming across. I actually want to achieve something. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Odds of a government shutdown? Republicans craft short-term plan House Republicans are moving ahead with a plan to temporarily fund the government while beefing up border security a proposal that is dead on arrival in the Senate and even faces difficulties in the House, raising the likelihood of a government shutdown at the end of the month. A group of six Republican members three from the conservative House Freedom Caucus and three from the centrist-leaning Main Street Caucus worked through the weekend to finalize a tentative deal on a short-term spending plan that they hope will get buy-in from across the Republican conference. But a number of GOP hardliners immediately blasted the agreement on a private call Sunday night, leaving House Republicans once again at a major impasse on spending. The agreement, according to GOP sources familiar with the matter, would pair a 31-day continuing resolution with a House GOP-passed border security package, but without the bills provisions on E-Verify, a national immigration status database. The short-term spending bill also would impose some spending cuts instead of keeping the government funded at current levels. While the departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs would be maintained at funding levels, other agencies would face a roughly 8% cut. The bill does not include the White House request for $40 billion in supplemental funding for natural disasters and the war in Ukraine, which Senate leaders in both parties want attached to any temporary funding bill. Conservatives including Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia and Ralph Norman of South Carolina raised concerns about the deal on the call Sunday. Others blasted the plan on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, raising doubts that the measure can pass Thursday, when leaders had hoped it could come to the floor for a vote. I will not surrender, Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida wrote as he retweeted a post from Steve Bannon blasting the deal. The framework represents an agreement by two key corners of the GOP, but there is still no guarantee it would have the 218 votes needed to pass the House. Since all Democrats are likely to oppose the bill, that means Speaker Kevin McCarthy can afford to lose only a handful of Republicans and at least three hardliners have already signaled they are against any short-term bill. And even if House Republicans are able to pass the bill, it will certainly be rejected by the Democratic-controlled Senate, meaning Congress is no closer to avoiding a government shutdown. But McCarthy is trying to move something across the finish line to fund the government that has Republican buy-in and doesnt rely on Democratic votes, which could put his speakership at risk. The opposition from hard-line Republicans in the House now raises questions on what, if anything, the chamber can pass. During the call Sunday night, it was also announced the House would try to pass a stand-alone defense spending bill Wednesday, but that legislation failed to pass last week after House Republicans couldnt even unite around a procedural vote. The six negotiators for the tentative deal were Main Street Caucus Reps. Stephanie Bice, Dusty Johnson and Kelly Armstrong and Freedom Caucus Reps. Byron Donalds, Chip Roy and Scott Perry. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com WASHINGTON Key factions of the House Republican Conference reached a tentative agreement Sunday to keep the government funded temporarily and avert a shutdown scheduled for the end of the month, pairing it with a conservative border security measure, multiple GOP sources with knowledge of the agreement said. House Republicans released a bill after the far-right Freedom Caucus and the center-right Main Street Caucus reached a tentative agreement, the sources said. The deal, which would keep the government funded through Oct. 31 but includes cuts to domestic spending, is expected to pave the way to pass a defense spending bill this week that has been tied up in the standoff between Republican leadership and the far right. If the legislation passes the House, it would resolve one internal problem for Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., while creating a new one. The controversial immigration provisions and reduced spending levels make it all but guaranteed to die in the Democratic-led Senate, meaning it could do more to hasten a shutdown at the end of September than prevent one. The bill would cut domestic spending by 8% with exceptions for the military and veterans funding. It includes most of the Secure the Border Act of 2023, a wish list of immigration provisions for GOP hard-liners, with the exception of provisions requiring employers to use E-Verify to check immigration status. The legislation has been a big priority for Freedom Caucus members. And while it passed the House in May, the Senate has ignored it. Notably, the temporary government funding legislation doesn't mention Ukraine aid or disaster relief, two priorities for the White House and many lawmakers in both parties. Rep. Rosa DeLauro of Connecticut, the top Democrat on the Appropriations Committee, trashed the bill as extreme in a statement, accusing House Republicans of trying to cut funding to the National Institutes of Health including funding for cancer research, defund the police, and decrease resources to important allies like Ukraine and Israel, instead of working on bipartisan solution[s] that could be enacted. She added that it is time to end the charade and to get to work. The lawmakers named on the bill are Reps. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., Dusty Johnson, R-S.D., Scott Perry, R-Pa., Stephanie Bice, R-Okla., Chip Roy, R-Texas, and Kelly Armstrong, R-N.D. House Republicans, who have a slim majority, discussed the measure on a call at 8 p.m. ET Sunday. It's unclear whether the bill will get enough votes to pass the House. Without Democratic support, McCarthy can afford no more than four defections. Rep. Dan Bishop, R-N.C., quickly came out against it. No CR. Pass the damn approps bills. Roll back the crazy bureaucracy to pre-COVID levels. Now, Bishop said on social media. Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-Texas, said Sunday evening after the bill was released: Its crystal clear a Govt shutdown is coming. I represent 66% of the Texas-Mexico border a hollow Continuing Resolution built to win a messaging battle does nothing to keep America safe. Earlier in the day, McCarthy urged his colleagues to avert a shutdown in an appearance on Fox News. A shutdown would only give strength to the Democrats, he said. It would give the power to Biden. It wouldnt pay our troops. It wouldnt pay our border agents. More people would be coming across. I actually want to achieve something. Perry, the Freedom Caucus chair, said in a statement Sunday night: HFC Members have worked over the weekend with the Main Street Caucus on a path forward to fund the government and secure Americas border. We now have a framework for our colleagues across the House Republican Conference. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Utah House Speaker Brad Wilson, R-Kaysville, talks to reporters at his business office in Farmington on April 13, 2023. Wilson has announced he is resigning from the Utah Legislature. | Spenser Heaps, Deseret News House Speaker Brad Wilson is resigning from the Utah Legislature. The Kaysville Republican announced in April he was exploring a run for the U.S. Senate seat held by Sen. Mitt Romney. Last week, Romney, R-Utah, said he would not seek a second term next year. A news release Monday from Wilson about his legislative resignation did not mention his Senate hopes, but he talked briefly about his decision during a news conference held during a day of legislative interim meetings at Utah Tech University in St. George. The speaker said he tendered his resignation, effective Nov. 15 at 5 p.m., so that a new speaker can get elected, and the legislative session can get ramped up and the work can get done for the the people of Utah. He said he couldnt serve the people my district and also serve as speaker of the House and simultaneously do that work and run at the same time. So I thought it was in the best interest of the Legislature and the people of Utah to have a full-time speaker of the House. Still, Wilson stopped short of declaring hes a candidate, referring to an announcement about what my plans are thats scheduled for Sept. 27, but did note that there are a lot of problems in D.C. and that hes been encouraged to run for U.S. Senate. Monday, his campaign tweeted an invitation to that special announcement in Draper, with a message from the candidate: Its time for a conservative fighter in the U.S. Senate. Mark your calendar to join Jeni and me on Sept. 27th to get America back on track. According to the most recent Federal Election Commission quarterly filing by his campaign, Wilson had more than $2.2 million in cash on hand as of July 15, including $1.2 million that hes loaned the effort. Utahs declared Senate candidates include Riverton Mayor Trent Staggs, but there is a growing list of potential GOP contenders, such as former Utah Rep. Jason Chaffetz and Tim Ballard, founder and former CEO of Operation Underground Railroad. Related House Majority Leader Mike Schultz, R-Hooper, who is running to replace Wilson as speaker, said elections for all four leadership positions will likely be held by the GOP supermajority in November, in a closed-door caucus. All of the positions are expected to be contested. A special session of the Legislature to vote on the Republican caucus choice for speaker could then be held on Nov. 15, Wilsons last day in the Legislature. Davis County GOP delegates will choose the new House District 15 representative. Wilson, a homebuilder and developer, said in the news release, Serving in the Utah House of Representatives and as Speaker of the House has been the honor, privilege, and opportunity of a lifetime and I dont say that lightly. First elected to represent House District 15 in 2011, Wilson has served as speaker of the Utah House since January 2019. He said he did not anticipate the lifelong impact of my decision to run for public office nearly 14 years ago. Among the legislative actions he cited were leading efforts to relocate the Utah State Prison; restore the Great Salt Lake; expand funding for state parks, public education and transportation; and cut taxes by some $1 billion. Wilson said hes excited for my next chapter and have full confidence in my peers in the House, Senate, and executive branch to continue making Utah the best place to live, learn, work, and play. Gov. Spencer Cox posted that Wilson has served Utah with dignity and diligence for the past 14 years and has been an advocate for his constituents and all Utahns. Were grateful for his commitment and principled leadership, and wish him all the best on his next chapter. Senate President Stuart Adams, R-Layton, said in a statement that Wilson will be missed. Related For decades, I have had the privilege of calling Brad a friend and a trusted colleague. It has been an honor serving alongside Speaker Wilson in partnership every day to improve our great state, Adams said. The Senate president said the pair have been able to navigate challenges and accomplish great things for Utahns and Utah. I commend him for his service and dedication to the people of Utah. House and Senate Democrats also said they appreciated Wilsons commitment to the state. Over his 12 years of unwavering service, Speaker Wilson has consistently demonstrated his dedication to bipartisanship and adherence to proper procedures, the House minority caucus said in a statement. Senate Minority Leader Luz Escamilla, D-Salt Lake, acknowledged Wilsons years of service and significant contributions to the Utah Legislature, commending him for his commitment to the people of Utah and his efforts to find common ground. The Utah Democratic Party offered a harsh assessment of Wilsons work in the Legislature. In his time as Speaker of the House, Brad Wilson and the GOP supermajority have overseen some of the most divisive and partisan legislation in the history of our state, Utah Democratic Party Chair Diane Lewis said. From brutally gerrymandering our districts, to pushing through school vouchers, to relentlessly attacking trans kids, to ripping reproductive freedom away from thousands of Utah women, Wilsons record, and the record of the Utah Republican Party, is one of right-wing extremism, she said. The U.S. House was set to vote on a proposal aimed at making it easier for people to know their healthcare costs upfront on Monday evening, but the proposal was pulled from the calendar late Monday afternoon. Its unclear if or when the proposal will be scheduled again for a vote. The bill focuses on the problem that many people dont know the true cost of their healthcare services until after they have already received the care and they get stuck with the bill. The bipartisan bill dubbed the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act would require hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, and diagnostic laboratories to publicly list the prices of their services. Read: New UNF poll finds Jacksonville residents are mixed on proposed stadium renovation This legislation is a critical step forward in the fight to make sure that all Americans can afford their health care, said Sophia Tripoli, Senior Director of Health Policy for Families USA. This is about making sure families have financial security and that the squeeze theyre starting to feel between their family budget month after month, that they have more insight into being able to plan. The legislation is the result of House Republicans and Democrats working on the issue in several committees. Earlier this year, lawmakers held a hearing to discuss the proposal and efforts by the federal government to address rising health care costs. Read: Fans want changes after dozens hospitalized for heat exhaustion at Jaguars home opener Its nearly impossible for people to plan ahead and budget for their health care costs, said Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), the sponsor of the bill. The lack of transparency makes it difficult to compare across providers in advance of receiving care, said Rep. Frank Pallone Jr. (D-NJ), a co-sponsor of the bill. The measure also adds new rules for the so-called middlemen, known as Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs). [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] It requires PBMs to give employers detailed information on prescription drug spending. While there is bipartisan support, the bill is still facing some opposition from the health care industry and from some Democrats. The American Hospital Association (AHA) sent a letter to House leadership last week expressing concerns about new regulations. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] The AHA supports the suspension of the Medicaid disproportionate share hospital (DSH) reductions for two years and appreciates your work to include this provision, however hospitals and health systems strongly oppose efforts to include permanent site-neutral payment cuts, the AHA wrote. In addition, the AHA has serious concerns about the added regulatory burdens on hospitals and health systems from the provisions to codify the Hospital Price Transparency Rule and to establish unique identifiers for off-campus hospital outpatient departments (HOPDs). Some House Democrats also say the proposal falls short and is missing elements to improve transparency with private Medicare plans and private ownership of healthcare facilities. The bill needs a two-thirds majority in the House to pass. Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. (The Hill) A new manufacturing plant to build electric planes that can take off and land vertically will be built in Dayton, Ohio the birthplace of aviation. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine (R) and Joby Aviation announced the agreement Monday, which promises to deliver up to 500 aircraft per year at the Dayton International Airport and support up to 2,000 jobs. The 140-acre site for the manufacturing facility will be located at a site near the airport, which is also near the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and the headquarters of the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratories. When youre talking about air taxis, thats the future, DeWine told The Associated Press. We find this very, very exciting not only for the direct jobs and indirect jobs its going to create, but like Intel, its a signal to people that Ohio is looking to the future. This is a big deal for us. Electric vertical takeoff and landing, or eVTOL aircraft, are beginning to become more common around the world. Developers of eVTOL aircraft say that one day they will be able to shuttle individuals or small groups of people from rooftops and parking garages to their locations to avoid traffic below. For a hundred years, the Dayton area has been a leader in aviation innovation, Lt. Gov. Jon Husted said. But capturing a large-scale manufacturer of aircraft has always eluded the local economy there. With this announcement, that aspiration has been realized. California looks toward renewable future amid contentious power plant decisions The Wright brothers lived and worked in Dayton, where they opened the first U.S. airplane factory in 1910. The official announcement will come later on Monday and will be held at Orville Wrights home. Joby Aviation said in its press release that it will begin construction in 2024 and plans to be online by 2025. The company said its aircraft are designed to transport one pilot and four passengers at speeds up to 200 mph with a maximum range of 100 miles. The company maintains that the noise of the aircraft will be minimal in cities. It also said it is working on partnerships with Delta Air Lines and Uber in its plans to operate these aircraft as part of aerial ridesharing networks in cities and communities around the world starting in 2025. Were building the future of aviation right where it all started, in Dayton, Ohio, said JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO of Joby. The Wright Brothers harnessed revolutionary technology of their time to open up the skies, and we intend to do the same this time, bringing quiet and emissions-free flight that we hope will have an equally profound impact on our world. The Associated Press contributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Hunter Bidens attorneys are seeking to have his initial court appearance handled remotely over a video link, a federal judge said Monday. A federal magistrate judge asked prosecutors and defense attorneys to weigh in by Wednesday about how to handle the initial appearance for Hunter Biden, President Joe Biden s son. It is unclear if Hunter Biden would enter a plea at that hearing. The judge told his team to make their request in writing by Tuesday. Prosecutors have until Wednesday to reply. Special counsel David Weiss team is opposing the request for a remote hearing, according to the order from the judge. Hunter Biden was indicted last week on three charges in connection with a gun he purchased in 2018, the first time in US history the Justice Department has charged the child of a sitting president. The three charges include making false statements on a federal firearms form and possession of a firearm as a prohibited person. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Hunter Biden launched a suit against the IRS on Monday, arguing that two agents wrongfully released his tax information as they spoke with congressional investigators about a Justice Department investigation into his taxes. This lawsuit is not about the legitimacy of the IRS investigation of Mr. Biden over the past five years or any decision to penalize Mr. Biden for any failure to comply with his obligations under the tax laws, Bidens attorneys wrote in the suit. Rather, the lawsuit is about the decision by IRS employees, their representatives, and others to disregard their obligations and repeatedly and intentionally publicly disclose and disseminate Mr. Bidens protected tax return information outside the exceptions for making disclosures in the law, it added later. The suit points to testimony from two IRS agents that worked on the broader Justice Department probe, Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler, who alleged the Biden investigation was slow-walked by prosecutors. The two men spoke with the House Ways and Means Committee earlier this summer and also testified before the House Oversight and Accountability Committee in July. But the suit targets what it says were 20 nationally televised and non-congressionally sanctioned interviews discussing the investigation. Bidens suit seeks $1,000 for each and every unauthorized disclosure of his tax return information made by the two men. The IRS declined to comment on the lawsuit. Bidens attorneys have previously targeted the two mens whistleblower status, and the Monday suit notes that attorneys for the Ways and Means Committee opened their meeting by noting the need to avoid any unlawful disclosures. The suit also states that the House Oversight Committee is not among those permitted to review tax information in a closed setting. Still the bulk of the suit focuses on interviews given by Shapley or his attorney, saying they erred in going beyond confirming the existence of the investigation and releasing new details about Bidens taxes, including the tax years for the alleged violations as well as the amounts. Its information that could only be known to them based on a review of the physical tax returns themselves, the suit argues. These agents putative whistleblower status cannot and does not shield them from their wrongful conduct in making unauthorized public disclosures that are not permitted by the whistleblower process, is says. In fact, a whistleblower is supposed to uncover government misconduct, not the details of that employees opinion about the alleged wrongdoing of a private person. The investigation into Bidens taxes have become a focal point in the GOP impeachment inquiry into his father, with three different committees reviewing claims that special counsel David Weiss mismanaged the investigation. They are also probing a plea deal related to Bidens failure to pay taxes that fell apart before it could be approved by a judge. Shapley has also claimed that Weiss sought and was denied special counsel status something both Weiss and DOJ have denied. Weiss, the U.S. Attorney for Delaware, was elevated to the status in August. Weiss last week brought three different gun charges against Biden relating to failure to acknowledge drug use when purchasing a weapon. But he has yet to file tax charges. Bidens lawyers on Monday said the disclosures are undermining Americans faith in the IRS and the purported confidentiality of its investigations. Mr. Biden has no fewer or lesser rights than any other American citizen, and no government agency or government agent has free reign to violate his rights simply because of who he is. Yet the IRS and its agents have conducted themselves under a presumption that the rights that apply to every other American citizen do not apply to Mr. Biden, the suit claims. Updated: 10:41 a.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Following a five-year federal investigation, a grand jury has indicted President Joe Bidens son Hunter Biden on three charges connected to a gun purchase in 2018, a time period during which the presidents son has admitted to using drugs. Federal law prohibits people who use drugs from buying firearms, but questions surrounding the constitutionality of that law could throw the case into jeopardy following a landmark US Supreme Court decision that opened a wave of litigation under the courts expansive Second Amendment lens. Thats if the case survives the political maelstrom targeting the Biden family, with congressional Republicans eager to prosecute the presidents son and impeach his father in parallel probes separate from a US Department of Justice special counsel investigation facing GOP pressure. That partisan scrutiny comes as the leading candidate for the 2024 Republican nomination for president faces four sprawling criminal trials of his own, including charges for serious crimes allegedly committed while serving as 45th president. Republican officials and campaigns are eager to draw a false equivalence and dominate airtime with investigations surrounding the younger Biden instead. Ironically, a Supreme Court decision celebrated by Republicans last year may have set a precedent that could protect Hunter Biden from prosecution. The Gun Control Act of 1968 prohibits people who use drugs from possessing firearms, a ban that applies to people who have admitted to using illegal drugs within 12 months before buying a gun, according to the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. Violating that provision could land an offender with a 15-year prison sentence. But the Supreme Courts decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v Bruen decided by the courts six conservative justices argues that such restrictions be historically consistent with the Second Amendment. As Justice Clarence Thomas wrote, the government must demonstrate that the regulation is consistent with the Nations historical tradition. The decision created an absurdly high new burden to test the constitutionality of restrictions and other safety measures to combat the proliferation of high-powered firearms and keep them out of the hands of people who could be a danger to themselves or others in the American era marked by daily mass shootings and surging rates of gun violence, analysts and advocates have argued. President Biden has said the decision contradicts both common sense and the Constitution. Within a year after that decision, more than a dozen state and federal gun laws have been challenged, with 30 per cent of civil cases and nearly 4 per cent of criminal cases citing the Bruen decision in challenges that have invalidated gun control measures, according to research in Duke Law Journal. This year, federal judges in several cases have ruled that banning someone who uses drugs from owning a firearm is inconsistent with the Nations historical tradition of firearm regulation. In short, our history and tradition may support some limits on an intoxicated persons right to carry a weapon, but it does not justify disarming a sober citizen based exclusively on his past drug usage, Ronald Reagan-appointed US District Judge Jerry Smith wrote for a federal appeal courts panel in August. Nor do more generalized traditions of disarming dangerous persons support this restriction on nonviolent drug users. Hunter Biden is charged with illegally owning a gun as a drug user, and with allegedly lying on a form when he bought the firearm. If convicted, he could face up to 25 years in prison, though it is highly unlikely he would face such a sentence. Jacob Charles, a professor at Pepperdine Universitys Caruso School of Law and a constitutional law scholar focusing on the Second Amendment, said Mr Bidens attorneys likely have a viable Second Amendment case. It might be more difficult to challenge federal law against lying on a firearms form, which is not directly tied to Second Amendment rights, so its possible that an appeals court or the Supreme Court would agree with the defense on both of the questions, and say its unconstitutional, and since its unconstitutional, you also cant be punished for lying about the other category, Mr Charles told The Independent. Essentially: if one count is on unconstitutional grounds, theres a chance the other counts wouldnt stand up either. Its not always the case that the higher profile the defendant, the more likely youre going to get Supreme Court review, he said. Sometimes it seems to happen lately. But there are other cases that are farther along in the process that are challenging this same law, that if the court really wanted to answer this question, it wouldnt have to use the Hunter Biden vehicle to do it. Mr Charles says the case has underscored the disruptive effects of the Supreme Courts decision in Bruen and the chaotic new landscape for the nations myriad gun laws, which now have an apparent historical analogy regardless of the urgency for such laws in the first place. This year, the Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in a major Second Amendment test that further magnifies the chasm between the new historical test and current realities, when justices will hear a case involving a man who possessed firearms and allegedly repeatedly shot at people while subject to a domestic violence restraining order. It is also unclear what evidence prosecutors are reviewing to determine that Hunter Biden was using drugs at the time; those details are publicised in his memoir, in which he describes his struggle with abuse and his relapse in 2018, the year he bought the gun. Mr Bidens attorney Abbe Lowell believes the case will be tossed out altogether. The only change that has occurred between when they investigated [this alleged crime] and today is that the law changed, he told ABCs Good Morning America on 15 September. But the law didnt change in favour of the prosecution. The law changed against it. Ive never heard of this charge. Never Mr Lowell and others have also questioned the timing of the case, parallel to growing threats of impeachment from far-right members of Congress against President Biden and adjacent investigations from House Republicans seeking criminal prosecutions against the president and his family. The US Attorneys Office has known about this for years, Mr Lowell said. What changed? Not the facts, not the law, but all the politics that have now come into play. The younger Biden was prepared to plead guilty to charges stemming from the firearms purchase as well as separate tax-related misdemeanours earlier this year, though a plea agreement appeared to fall apart under scrutiny from a federal judge. Justice Department special counsel David Weiss, who as US Attorney for Delaware has been investigating Hunter Biden for roughly five years, said he would seek a grand jury indictment in the case by the end of September. Mr Weiss was appointed by Mr Trump and initially requested by congressional Republicans to lead a special counsel probe. Following the collapse of that plea deal, Mr Lowell stressed to CBS Face the Nation that Mr Weiss is a Republican US attorney appointed by a Republican president and attorney general who had career prosecutors working this case for five years looking at every transaction in which Hunter Biden was involved. If anything changes from his conclusion, he added, the question should be asked, what infected the process that was not the facts in the law? Outside of the constitutional scrutiny in Mr Bidens case is the unusual stand-alone charge for lying on a form, which is typically charged in connection with a more serious underlying crime. The Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act of 1993 supported by then-Senator Joe Biden as the chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee made a federal form for firearms purchases a key part of a package of anti-crime legislation. According to prosecutors, Hunter Biden lied on the form when he was asked whether he is an an unlawful user of, or addicted to, marijuana or any depressant, stimulant, narcotic drug, or any other controlled substance. But the chance of being prosecuted for lying on that form is exceedingly rare among the millions of background checks performed each year. Within the fiscal year that Mr Biden bought the gun and filled out that paperwork, federal prosecutors received 478 referrals for charges and filed cases in roughly half of them. Mr Biden likely did receive so-called special treatment from federal prosecutors, as Republican officials have claimed. But it was in the opposite direction. His prosecution appears especially more severe than that facing a typical defendant. I served in an independent counsels office more than 30 years ago. Among our guiding principles: dont bring charges that are inconsistent with DOJ policy and practice, and dont let charging decisions be affected by politics. The Hunter Biden charges violate those principles. Michael R. Bromwich (@mrbromwich) September 15, 2023 Can anyone tell me how many people have been federally indicted for purchasing a gun while dealing with substance abuse issues? asked Keisha Lance Bottoms, a former senior adviser to President Biden. I dont know the answer, but in my over 29 years as an attorney, I have never heard of it. According to former Justice Department inspector general Michael Bromwich, these kinds of charges simply do not happen. Ive been involved in law enforcement both as a prosecutor and a defense lawyer for 40 years. Ive never heard of this charge being brought. Never, according to Mr Bromwich, who served as Justice Department inspector general from 1995 to 1999 and previously served as a federal prosecutor in New York. He is currently a senior counsel at Steptoe & Johnson LLP. I think its extremely unusual to bring, if not unprecedented to bring, this set of charges, he told The Independent. These charges were brought as a result of the unrelenting political pressure brought by Republicans in Congress to bring a heavy hand down on Hunter Biden as a way of trying to get to Joe Biden, and I think the prosecutor, Mr Weiss has succumbed to political pressure, he said. A plea agreement like the one reached this summer is much more in keeping with what an ordinary prosecutor would do, according to Mr Bromwich. Should Mr Weiss seek a plea arrangement like the one prosecutors sought earlier this year, his office is going to invite criticism from the very Republicans who will put the pressure on him right now who now feel great that there are these very serious charges against Hunter Biden, he told The Independent. Given all the forces at play, all the political pressure exerted from the Republican members of Congress, its very hard to predict where this is going to go, and how. WASHINGTON Hunter Biden , the son of President Joe Biden , filed a federal lawsuit Monday against the Internal Revenue Service for allegedly violating his privacy because two of its investigators revealed confidential information about his taxes. The IRS agents, Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler, testified before Congress as federal whistleblowers who said they were hindered during the five-year investigation of Biden. Abbe Lowell, Bidens lawyer, argued in the lawsuit the agents disclosed confidential tax information during 20 nationally televised interviews and public statements. Lowell argued the lawsuit wasnt about the whistleblower statute or congressional oversight, but about an assault on Bidens privacy. Rather, IRS agents have targeted and sought to embarrass Mr. Biden via public statements to the media in which they and their representatives disclosed confidential information about a private citizens tax matters, Lowell wrote. The lawsuit contends Biden is eligible for $1,000 in statutory damages for each unauthorized disclosure and also unspecified punitive damages. "IRS does not comment on pending litigation," spokesman Robert Marvin said in a statement. FILE - President Joe Biden, and his son Hunter Biden arrive at Fort McNair, Sunday, June 25, 2023, in Washington. Hunter Biden has been charged with felony gun possession. A federal indictment filed in Delaware says Biden lied about his drug use when he bought a firearm in 2018 while struggling with addiction to crack cocaine. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, File) ORG XMIT: WX707 The lawsuit describes Shapley and Ziegler giving closed-door testimony in May and June before the House Ways and Means Committee, which governs tax issues. Transcripts show the agents being warned against disclosing the testimony publicly and to consider the entire interview and resulting transcript as protected confidential information. But Shapley allegedly disclosed confidential information during interviews with Fox News, CBS News, "The Megyn Kelly Show," "John Solomon Reports" and CNN, according to the lawsuit. The alleged violations included details of the Biden investigation, purported deviations in the investigative process and the Justice Departments involvement, according to the lawsuit. During these interviews, Mr. Shapley and Mr. Ziegler provided unsubstantiated and selectively chosen allegations of nefarious and potentially criminal behavior, the lawsuit said. Hunter Biden had agreed to plead guilty to two misdemeanor tax charges. But the agreement over those charges and a federal gun charge fell apart in July when U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika questioned the terms because of disputes between Bidens lawyers and federal prosecutors about the terms. Justice Department special counsel David Weiss filed three new gun charges against Hunter Biden on Sept. 14. Tax charges could potentially also be refiled. Prosecutors said Hunter Biden took in $2.4 million in income in 2017 and $2.1 million in 2018 through Ukrainian energy firm Burisma, a Chinese-development firm, as well as domestic business interests and legal services. Leo Wise, an assistant U.S. attorney, has said an accountant prepared Biden's taxes both of those years, but his corporate and personal taxes were not paid. During this period, Hunter Biden made large cash withdrawals and covered other expenses like car payments on a Porsche, Wise said. Lowell also challenged information that Rep. Jason Smith, R-Mo., chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, released about Hunter Bidens late tax filings associated with the IRS testimony. Ziegler testified that Hunter underreported his tax return by $500,000 in 2018, according to a letter Lowell sent Monday to Smith. In a June 24 interview Shapley gave to CBS Morning News, he disclosed Biden purportedly owed $2.2 million in taxes from 2014 to 2019, according to the letter. But Lowell said Biden previously paid $900,000 to the IRS and, pending a final review, will receive a refund for 2018. I am writing to let you know that your agents and you are wrong, Lowell said. A Smith spokesperson declined comment. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Hunter Biden sues IRS after two agents allegedly released his tax info This aerial photo taken on Aug. 21, 2023 shows the zigzag watercourse of the Yellow River in Tangke Township, Ruoergai County of Aba Tibetan-Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province. [Photo/Xinhua] More efforts should be made to protect the cultural heritage of great river basins and respect the characteristics of civilizations born from them, according to a declaration released on Sunday. The World Great Rivers Civilizations Forum: Zhengzhou Declaration also called for safeguarding the diversity of human civilizations and enhancing mutual learning among civilizations. It was announced at the 2023 World Great Rivers Civilizations Forum held in Zhengzhou, Henan province. The forum is being attended by more than 300 heritage professionals and diplomatic envoys from China and other countries with great river basins across the world, like the Indus Basin, the Mesopotamian Basin and the Nile Basin. With the theme "Mutual Learning Among Civilizations, Jointly Building a Shared Future", the two-day forum is organized by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, People's Daily, the National Cultural Heritage Administration and the Henan Provincial People's Government. It includes various online and in-person activities such as the main forum, four sub-forums, roundtable dialogues, field trips and cultural performances. According to Wang Wei, director of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences' Academic Division of History, rivers are cradles of human civilizations. The world's major ancient civilizations, such as the Chinese, ancient Egyptian, Mesopotamian and Indus Valley, all emerged in great river basins. Rivers nurtured agriculture, and the development of agriculture laid the foundation for the origin, formation and development of civilizations. Each civilization has followed its unique development path, showing distinctive features and communicating with each other, jointly promoting the development of human civilizations, Wang said. To study these civilizations, we should not only focus on specific regions but also study them within the broader context of world civilizations. This is precisely the reason why the forum is being held, he added. Xie Bing, deputy director of the National Cultural Heritage Administration, said the Yellow River Basin was a key area in the origin and formation of Chinese civilization. He introduced a national research project that traced its origins in China, which included studies on a number of sites in the Yellow River Basin, like the Erlitou site in Luoyang, Henan, which existed from the 18th to 16th century BC, and the approximately 4,000-year-old Shimao site in Shenmu, Shaanxi province. According to Ahmed Badr, head of the Cultural Heritage of Luxor Temple in Egypt, the Nile played a fundamental and key role in the formation of Egyptian culture. He highlighted a joint project by Chinese and Egyptian archaeologists since 2018 to study the Karnak Temple complex by the Nile in Luxor. "Through our work, the complex is taking off its mysterious veil, and shows a clearer face. It's our joint effort to explore an important cultural treasure," he said. Hunter Biden has sued the IRS, arguing that the government agency unlawfully released his private tax information. The son of the president is also alleging that the tax agency failed to safeguard his private records. The younger Mr Biden is seeking all the files linked to the disclosure of tax information, as well as $1,000 for every improper disclosure, and legal fees, in addition to other requests. The lawsuit was filed in federal court in Washington DC. It doesnt name the two IRS whistleblowers as defendants, but its focused on information shared by the agents Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler as well as their lawyers in testimony to Congress, interviews, and public statements. Despite clear warnings from Congress that they were prohibited from disclosing the contents of their testimony to the public in another forum, Mr Shapley and Mr Zieglers testimony only emboldened their media campaign against Mr Biden, the legal filing notes. Since their House testimony in July, the agents have become regular guests on national media outlets and have made new allegations and public statements regarding Mr Bidens confidential tax return information that were not previously included in their transcripts before that committee, according to the filing. The lawsuit is about the decision by IRS employees, their representatives, and others to disregard their obligations and repeatedly and intentionally publicly disclose and disseminate Mr Bidens protected tax return information outside the exceptions for making disclosures in the law, the filing adds. The agents whistleblower status cannot and does not shield them from their wrongful conduct in making unauthorized public disclosures that are not permitted by the whistleblower process, according to attorneys for Mr Biden. The legal filing claims that Mr Shapley and Mr Ziegler did more than verify the investigation into Mr Biden that they shared specific claims against the 53-year-old, the amount of the deductions he had taken and how much he owed in taxes. Mr Shapleys attorneys said in a Friday statement that Mr Bidens lawyers have attempted to get the Department of Justice to take action against their clients for sharing information that was protected under whistleblower regulations. Taxpayer privacy laws are written by Congress, and it gave itself authority in those laws to hear disclosures about taxpayer information, a lawyer for Mr Shapley said in the statement on Friday. The agents shared their allegations regarding the US Department of Justices handling of the Biden probe earlier this year. The Justice Department said in June that they had struck a deal with Mr Biden that meant that he would plead guilty to two tax misdemeanours after he didnt pay his taxes on time in 2017 and 2018. Mr Biden also agreed to a deal that would mean that he wouldnt be charged with a gun possession violation, but that agreement was torn up following scrutiny by a federal judge. When the judge declined to greenlight the deal, discussions ended between the office of US Attorney David Weiss and Mr Bidens legal team. Mr Weiss then asked for, and was granted, the status of special counsel. Mr Biden was indicted on three felony gun charges on Thursday and the office of Mr Weiss has stated that they could bring tax charges, with Washington DC and California being on the list of possible jurisdictions. One day earlier, Mr Biden sued Garrett Ziegler, a Trump-era White House official, of launching a sustained, unhinged and obsessed campaign against the Biden family, including hacking the alleged contents of a laptop that were central to political campaigns surrounding the 2020 presidential election, federal investigations and Republican-led congressional probes. w Hunter Biden filed a lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service, legal records show. The lawsuit alleges that agents "targeted and sought to embarrass" him by discussing his tax returns. The IRS did not create safeguards to make sure his details were kept confidential, it says. Hunter Biden, US President Joe Biden's son, has filed a lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), alleging its agents "targeted and sought to embarrass" him by discussing his tax returns. "Biden has no fewer or lesser rights than any other American citizen, and no government agency or government agent has free reign to violate his rights simply because of who he is," the lawsuit says. The lawsuit alleges that two former IRS officials violated Biden's right to have the information kept private when they told Congress and the media that they felt an investigation into his tax affairs had been mishandled. "Two IRS agentsMr. Gary Shapley and Mr. Joseph Zieglerand their attorneys raised the stakes to unprecedented levels with their numerous public appearances and statements that blatantly violated Section 6103 of the Internal Revenue Code by engaging in a campaign to publicly smear Mr. Biden," the lawsuit states. It claims that the agents unlawfully revealed his tax return information and that the IRS did not create safeguards to make sure his details were kept confidential, in violation of the Privacy Act. The IRS whistleblowers, Shapley and Ziegler, claimed in July testimony to Congress that justice department officials went easy on Biden in an investigation into his taxes because he's the president's son. However, in testimony to the House Judiciary Committee, an FBI agent undercut a key claim by one of the whistleblowers, denying that David Weiss, the special counsel overseeing the DoJ probe into Biden, has said he didn't have the authority to charge Biden, The New York Times reported. "This assault on Mr. Biden's rights involved the public disclosure of his confidential tax information during more than 20 nationally televised and non-congressionally sanctioned interviews and numerous public statements," the lawsuit said. Biden is seeking $1,000 for each unauthorized disclosure, attorney's fees, and all documents relating to his tax disclosures. Hunter Biden is embroiled in a slew of legal troubles, amid investigations into his tax affairs, a gun purchase, and the collapse of a recent plea deal with prosecutors. The Republican-controlled House of Representatives has launched an impeachment investigation into President Biden over his son's business dealings in Ukraine and China on the basis of unproven allegations President Biden was improperly involved in them. A plea agreement between federal prosecutors and Hunter Biden collapsed in July when a judge refused to sign off on the deal. Had it gone through, Biden would have pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor tax charges and would likely have been spared jail. The IRS did not immediately respond to a request for comment made outside working hours. You can read the complaint from Hunter Biden's lawsuit here: This embedded content is not available in your region. And here is a letter from Abbe Lowell, Biden's counsel, disputing congressional testimony made by an IRS whistleblower and claiming that Hunter Biden overpaid his federal tax in 2018. This embedded content is not available in your region. Read the original article on Business Insider WASHINGTON President Joe Biden s son sued the IRS on Monday over the recent release of private tax information. In a complaint filed in federal court in Washington, D.C., Hunter Bidens attorneys argue that the IRS and its agents have conducted themselves under a presumption that the rights that apply to every other American citizen do not apply to Mr. Biden. Two IRS whistleblowers told Congress earlier this year that the Justice Department had stifled their long-running investigation into Bidens failure to pay federal taxes. Tax information is generally confidential, with criminal penalties for its release, with exceptions for certain situations including one that allows certain congressional committees to obtain private tax information and vote to make it public. Republicans in Congress cited that exception when they voted to make the whistleblower testimony public earlier this year, while the IRS agents have continued to speak out in media interviews. IRS agents have targeted and sought to embarrass Mr. Biden via public statements to the media in which they and their representatives disclosed confidential information about a private citizens tax matters, Bidens lawsuit alleges. Biden planned to plead guilty to failing to pay taxes in 2017 and 2018, but a plea deal collapsed amid disagreements between his legal team and the government over the scope of his immunity from further charges. He has since been charged with illegally buying a gun and could still be indicted on the tax charges. Mondays complaint reflects the presidents sons aggressive legal strategy and follows lawsuits against a computer repairman and a former Donald Trump administration official who have publicized the private contents of Bidens personal laptop. Members of Congress have used the material to investigate Bidens business practices and to display nude photos of the presidents son during a hearing this summer. Republicans have used the IRS whistleblower testimony to argue that the Justice Department has a double standard that coddles the current presidents son while the former president faces multiple criminal indictments. The allegation has become part of an impeachment inquiry in the House of Representatives. The complaint says the whistleblowers have gratuitously publicized Bidens tax information in TV interviews outside of the congressional disclosure process, where they have disclosed information that wasnt part of their testimony, such as an internal recommendation for a felony charge against Biden for a certain tax year. The interviews provided detailed allegations regarding the specific tax years under investigation, the amounts of deductions, the nature of those deductions, and allegations of liability regarding specific tax years and the amount thereof, that could only be known to them based on a review of the physical tax returns themselves, the complaint says. Recent testimony from FBI officials has cast doubt on some of the IRS whistleblower claims, including that David Weiss, the U.S. Attorney for for Delaware, said that it wasnt up to him whether Biden could face charges outside of Delaware. The House Oversight Committee, which has led the investigation into the Biden family, blasted the lawsuit in a statement. These IRS whistleblowers do not deserve the smear campaign Hunter Bidens legal team is waging, the committee said. Witness intimidation is just another dirty tactic by the Hunter Biden legal team. Despite their games, our investigation will continue. Related... Hurricane Nigel, the sixth hurricane to form in the Atlantic Ocean this season, developed into a Category 1 storm on Monday and is expected to rapidly intensify into a major hurricane by Tuesday. The storm initially formed in the center of the Atlantic on Saturday but quickly picked up power, developing into a Category 1 hurricane on Monday morning. At the moment, Nigel has sustained winds of 80 miles per hour. But forecasters in the National Weather Service (NWS) and National Hurricane Center expect the storm to become a Category 3 by Tuesday this means Nigel will have sustained winds of at least 111 miles per hour. As of Monday morning, Nigel is located approximately 900 miles southeast of Bermuda but is moving northwesterly. However, the hurricane is not expected to make landfall and no warnings or watches have been issued. As of now, the National Hurricane Center predicts Nigel will veer off right into the open Atlantic Ocean by Wednesday morning. Nigel developed shortly after Hurricane Lee landed in Nova Scotia as a post-tropical storm. Key Points National Hurricane Center expects Hurricane Nigel to rapidly intensify Hurricane Nigels expected path Spaghetti models of Hurricane Nigel Why are so many hurricanes rapidly intensifying ? Hurricane Nigel may weaken on Wednesday 22:00 , Ariana Baio The National Hurricane Center predicted Hurricane Nigel to potentially weaken after becoming a major hurricane on Wednesday. Nigel is forecast to rapidly strengthen into a major hurricane on Tuesday, the NHC wrote in an advisory on Monday afternoon. They added: A gradual weakening trend could start on Wednesday. How are hurricanes classified? 21:00 , Ariana Baio When a tropical depression reaches sustained winds between 74 and 95 miles per hour it is officially classified as a Category 1 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. After that, hurricanes can reach up to a Category 5 depending on its sustained winds, according to the National Hurricane Center. Category 1 Winds of 74 to 95 mph. Very dangerous winds will produce some damage. Category 2 Winds of 96 to 110 mph. Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage. Category 3 Winds of 111 to 129 mph. Devastating damage with occur. Category 4 Winds of 130 to 156 mph. Catastrophic damage will occur. Category 5 Winds of 157 mph or higher. Catastrophic damage will occur. Why destructive hurricanes often start with the letter I 20:00 , Ariana Baio The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) issues alphabetical lists of names to label hurricanes each year - one for each of the worlds three oceanic regions. Faiza Saqib reports: Why destructive hurricanes like Idalia often start with the letter I Watch: Timelapse of Nigel going from tropical depression to hurricane 19:15 , Ariana Baio Nigel evolved from a depression into a tropical storm over the weekend, and then recently into a hurricane last night. This timelapse of Nigel from Saturday night through this morning shows that process taking place. pic.twitter.com/oNm4dHWAhq CIRA (@CIRA_CSU) September 18, 2023 National Hurricane Center says no warnings in effect 18:40 , Ariana Baio In their latest update on Hurricane Nigel, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) said the location of the storm does not affect land. As of 11am ET on Monday, there are no coastal watches or warnings in effect regarding Hurricane Nigel. Though it is currently a Category 1 and expected to rapidly intensify, the storms expect path is to remain in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Hurricanes are getting stronger. Heres why 18:00 , Ariana Baio As the global average temperature increases and sea levels rise, tropical cyclones - the catch-all term for hurricanes and typhoons - are expected to become stronger and the damage more catastrophic, scientists say. Ethan Freedman and Louise Boyle report: Hurricanes are getting stronger. Heres why Current systems in Atlantic 17:25 , Ariana Baio Systems in the Atlantic Ocean as of 18 September show Hurricane Nigel as well as two areas of disturbances (National Hurricane Center / National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) What names are left on the Atlantic hurricane season? 17:00 , Ariana Baio So far, 14 names of the 21 allocated for the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season have been used. Nigel is the latest to be used for the Category 1 storm brewing in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. There are seven other names to be used for storms until the end of hurricane season at the end of November. After Nigel, the names that can be used are: Ophelia, Philippe, Rina, Sean, Tammy, Vince and Whitney. Atlantic hurricane season runs from 1 June until 30 November. Peak hurricane season is typically in mid-September when temperatures in the ocean are at their warmest. Spaghetti models of Hurricane Nigel 16:21 , Ariana Baio The spaghetti models of Hurricane Nigel show the Category 1 storm making a right and veering off into the Atlantic Ocean as of Wednesday. The predicted spaghetti model of Hurricane Nigel in the Atlantic Ocean. The storm will most likely veer off into the middle of the Atlantic on Wednesday (South Florida Water Management District) Why are so many hurricanes rapidly intensifying 15:58 , Ariana Baio When a hurricane, goes from a Category 1 storm to a Category 3 within two days it is considered rapidly intensifying the same prediction given to Hurricane Nigel. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) defines rapid intensification where a storms maximum sustained winds jump 35 miles per hour (56 kph) in less than 24 hours. These storms can become extremely dangerous as they approach coastlines because they give residents little time to prepare and evacuate. They are the most costly and a great threat to human life. They are also becoming more common. In the past 32 years, most Category 3 or higher hurricanes have undergone rapid intensification, according to a 2022 study. This is due to warmer ocean waters, more moisture in the atmosphere and low vertical wind shear, Philip Klotzbach of Colorado State University told Science News. Vertical wind shear happens when winds at different heights move at different speeds in different directions. These can assist in a storms intensification by pulling heat and moisture across the upper structure of the storm. But warming ocean temperatures are a major factor in helping boost storms size and speed. As the Earth becomes warmer, ocean temperatures rise and contribute to fueling hurricanes. Hurricane Nigels expected path 15:30 , Ariana Baio Forecasters in the National Hurricane Center do not predict that Hurricane Nigel will make landfall anywhere. As of Monday morning, Hurricane Nigel will continue moving northwesterly then veer right on Wednesday morning heading back into the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Hurricane Nigels potential path, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC NOAA) National Hurricane Center expects Hurricane Nigel to rapidly intensify 15:15 , Ariana Baio Hurricane #Nigel Advisory 12: Nigel Forecast to Rapidly Intensify Into a Major Hurricane On Tuesday. https://t.co/tW4KeGe9uJ National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) September 18, 2023 Where is Hurricane Nigel? 14:56 , Ariana Baio Hurricane Nigel, the sixth hurricane to form in the Atlantic Ocean this season, is located in the middle of the Atlantic as of Monday morning. The Category 1 hurricane is approximately 935 miles from Bermuda near the latitude 26.5 North and longitude 50.7 West. As of now, Hurricane Nigel is not expected to land anywhere as forecasters believe it will turn right and head into the middle of the ocean by Wednesday. Hurricane Nigels locations as of 18 September, 2023 (CIRA) 05:00 , Kelly Rissman The Timeline of Storm Lee In its final advisory about the storm, Environment Canada provided a summary of the storms path. Heres the timeline: 6 September: a tropical cyclone formed 7 September: the storm intensified into a hurricane 10-11 September: Lee passed north of the Caribbean sea 12-13 September: the storm began moving towards the Gulf Stream and Atlantic Canada 14 September: the storm passed just west of Bermuda 15 September: Hurricane Lee was downgraded 16 September: Post-tropical storm Lee made landfall in Nova Scotia 04:30 , Kelly Rissman Both the US and Canadian hurricane centers issued their final advisories for Lee The National Hurricane center issued its final advisory this morning at 11am, while Environment Canada issued its final advisory at 4pm. Environment Canadas final statement on Lee (Environment Canada) 03:30 , Kelly Rissman Canadas hurricane center forecasted Lees path Environment Canada Hurricane Center tracks Lees path (Environment Canada Hurricane Center) 02:30 , Kelly Rissman What a difference a day makes Many have taken to social media to highlight the contrast from before and after the storm. Here is a pano of the beautiful rocky coastline of southern Nova Scotia. What a difference a day makes! #Lee https://t.co/3RiWpRVuz4 Reed Timmer, PhD (@ReedTimmerAccu) September 17, 2023 01:30 , Kelly Rissman Maine is back to life after the storm What a difference 24 hours makes Bar Harbor, Maine fully back to life after #Lee. You can tell this is an area used to storms, they barely even flinched https://t.co/CC1OlBbYs0 Marissa Parra NBC (@MarParNews) September 17, 2023 Monday 18 September 2023 00:30 , Kelly Rissman What to expect over the next few days... Hurricane Lee update (National Hurricane Center) Sunday 17 September 2023 23:30 , Kelly Rissman Power restored The power outages in Maine have dwindled down to only 11,000 customers. Earlier on Sunday, a whopping 42,000 had been impacted by knocked-down power lines, caused by storm Lee. Similarly, fewer than 2,000 outages were reported in Nova Scotia late Sunday afternoon. Sunday 17 September 2023 22:30 , Kelly Rissman Canadas hurricane center afternoon update: Post-tropical storm Lee is currently affecting the Lower North Shore. It will give total rainfall amounts of 30 to 50 millimetres. Rain will end this evening. Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible. Watch for possible washouts near rivers, creeks and culverts. Sunday 17 September 2023 22:00 , Kelly Rissman Post-tropical cyclone Lee has taken at least one life A 51-year-old motorist in Searsport, Maine, was killed after the gusts caused a large tree limb to topple onto his vehicle on Saturday on US Highway 1. The tree limb also brought down live power lines, meaning utility workers had to cut power before the man could be removed, police chief Brian Lunt said. The 51-year-old later died at a hospital, the chief said. Read more on the aftermath of the storm here. Motorist dies after tree limb falls on vehicle as Lee batters New England and Canada Sunday 17 September 2023 21:30 , Kelly Rissman Post-tropical storm Lee is crossing Eastern Quebec According to Canadas hurricane center, Lee will result in about 1 to 4 inches of rain, which is expected to stop this evening. Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible. Watch for possible washouts near rivers, creeks and culverts, the center wrote. Sunday 17 September 2023 21:00 , Kelly Rissman Canadas hurricane center gives an update The remnant low from Lee is crossing the Gulf of St. Lawrence today. The current central pressure is estimated at 989 millibars. Conditions continue to improve in many areas of Nova Scotia and southern New Brunswick. Environment Canada Hurricane Center tracks Lees path (Environment Canada Hurricane Center) Sunday 17 September 2023 20:30 , Kelly Rissman Some advice from FEMA Hurricane #Lee brought damages to some areas. For your safety avoid power or utility lines they can still be electrified. If you see a downed power line or other electrical hazard, report them immediately to your power or utility company. pic.twitter.com/pbw6DHR9tD FEMA (@fema) September 17, 2023 Sunday 17 September 2023 20:00 , Kelly Rissman Climate change could bring more monster storms to New England When it comes to hurricanes, New England cant compete with Florida or the Caribbean. But scientists said Friday the arrival of storms like Hurricane Lee this weekend could become more common in the region as the planet warms, including in places such as the Gulf of Maine. One recent study found climate change could result in hurricanes expanding their reach more often into mid-latitude regions, which include New York, Boston and even Beijing. The study says the factors include warmer sea surface temperatures in these regions and the shifting and weakening of the jet streams, which are the strong bands of air currents encircling the planet in both hemispheres. More here. Climate change could bring more monster storms like Hurricane Lee to New England Sunday 17 September 2023 19:30 , Kelly Rissman Leader of Canadas New Democratic Party offers support for those affected by Lee My thoughts are with all of the Maritimers who are being impacted by Hurricane Lee today. Youve gone through so much in recent months with the floods, forest fires and now a hurricane. Canadians have your back. Stay safe and listen to advice from local authorities. Jagmeet Singh (@theJagmeetSingh) September 16, 2023 Sunday 17 September 2023 19:00 , Kelly Rissman Post-tropical cyclone Lee has taken at least one life A 51-year-old motorist in Searsport, Maine, was killed after the gusts caused a large tree limb to topple onto his vehicle on Saturday on US Highway 1. The tree limb also brought down live power lines, meaning utility workers had to cut power before the man could be removed, police chief Brian Lunt said. The 51-year-old later died at a hospital, the chief said. Read more on the aftermath of the storm here. Motorist dies after tree limb falls on vehicle as Lee batters New England and Canada Sunday 17 September 2023 18:30 , Kelly Rissman Canadas hurricane center forecasts Lees path Environment Canada Hurricane Center tracks Lees path (Environment Canada Hurricane Center) Sunday 17 September 2023 18:00 , Kelly Rissman Meteorologist captures Lees effects in Nova Scotia Scenes of monster waves and surf at Peggys Cove lighthouse last night in the wake of Post-tropical Cyclone Lee in Nova Scotia. Huge wind field is the signature of this storm. Today, we will be documenting the effects of the coastal erosion, since it is too expensive to fly out pic.twitter.com/0xDQtBPOF7 Reed Timmer, PhD (@ReedTimmerAccu) September 17, 2023 Sunday 17 September 2023 17:30 , Kelly Rissman Thousands are without power in Nova Scotia, as workers try to restore it as soon as possible Work continues this afternoon as our crews respond to damage caused by Post Tropical Storm Lee. Significant winds impacted the province for almost 24-hours, with winds reaching over 90km an hour in most areas. Limbs and branches have come down onto power lines, and in some cases pic.twitter.com/gPs4MYByNz Nova Scotia Power (@nspowerinc) September 17, 2023 Sunday 17 September 2023 17:00 , Kelly Rissman National Hurricane Center issues last advisory All tropical storm warnings for Canada are discontinued, the hurricane center wrote. As of 11am, Lee is 135 miles from Port Aux Basques, Newfoundland, with winds moving at 45mph. The storm is expected to head over Newfoundland later today and over the Atlantic waters by early Monday, the center wrote. Wind gusts up to near gale force are still possible over portions of Atlantic Canada today, the National Hurricane Center wrote. Sunday 17 September 2023 16:30 , Kelly Rissman Power outages in Maine A large chunk of the states residents 42,000 to be exact are without power as of Sunday morning, according to Poweroutage.us. That number is down from yesterday when nearly 60,000 locals had reported outages. Power outages across the US in the wake of Lee (Poweroutage.us) Sunday 17 September 2023 16:00 , Kelly Rissman National Hurricane Centers Watches and Warnings in Effect: A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for... Nova Scotia from Lismore eastward to Point Aconi and southwestward to east of Porters Lake Prince Edward Island from Savage Harbor eastward to east of Wood Islands Magdalen Islands Sunday 17 September 2023 15:30 , Kelly Rissman A look at the life cycle of Lee 16 days of the life of #Lee: Chapter 1: African easterly wave sudden intensification into Category 5 #hurricane Chapter 2: Eyewall replacements and restrengthening Chapter 3: Expansion, post-tropical transition, and landfall in Canada#meteorology pic.twitter.com/daWeZEC5Sk Stu Ostro (@StuOstro) September 17, 2023 Sunday 17 September 2023 15:00 , Kelly Rissman Gusty Winds in Atlantic Canada as Lee rages on An 8am advisory from the National Hurricane Center located the storm as about 70 miles from Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island with winds whipping at 45mph. A faster northeastward motion is expected over the next couple of days, taking Lee over Newfoundland this afternoon and over the Atlantic waters by early Monday, according to the hurricane center. The storm is expected to gradually weaken over the next couple of days, and Lee could dissipate on Tuesday. Warnings called off in parts of US and Canada Sunday 17 September 2023 14:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar Post-tropical cyclone Lee made landfall at near-hurricane strength Saturday, bringing destructive winds, rough surf and torrential rains to New England and Maritime Canada. But officials withdrew some warnings for the region late Saturday night. The US National Hurricane Center discontinued a tropical storm warning for the coast of Maine, while Environment Canada ended its tropical storm warning in New Brunswick. A tropical storm warning remained in effect for parts of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and the Magdalen Islands. Nearly 144,000 left without power in Nova Scotia Sunday 17 September 2023 13:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar About 144,000 people were without power on Saturday after strong winds due to storm Lee downed trees. In neighboring New Brunswick, 37,000 people had no electricity. Crews have been able to restore power to some customers ... however, conditions are getting worse, Matt Drover of the Nova Scotia electric utility told Reuters. In many cases, especially when winds are above 80 kmph, it isnt safe for our crews. In a social media post, Nova Scotia police said they had received reports of drivers heading to the coast to watch the waves, which they said was dangerous. A downed tree hangs on power lines in Nova Scotia, Canada (AP) Storm Lee continues to move north Sunday 17 September 2023 12:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar Heavy downpour is expected to continue through Sunday in the Prince Edward Island province of Canada, the forecasters said. Storm Lee made landfall in far western Nova Scotia, with winds whipping at 70mph, which killed one person and left thousands without electricity. Lee is on track to turn northeast and pass over Saturday night into Sunday, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation reported. Hurricane Lee makes landfall in Nova Scotia Sunday 17 September 2023 11:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar Hurricane Lee made landfall in Western Novia Scotia on Saturday, as millions in New England and Canada have been preparing for its devastation. Maximum sustained winds were at 70mph, as of 4pm when the storm reached land about 50 miles from Eastport, Maine and about 135 miles from Halifax, Nova Scotia, according to the National Hurricane Center. More here. Hurricane Lee makes landfall Teenager drowns ahead of Lee landfall Sunday 17 September 2023 10:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar A teenager drowned while in rough waters of the Atlantic on Wednesday, authorities in Florida said. The 15-year-old was with two other people when he fell off a raft, Fernandina Beach Police Department told Fox Weather. The other two were brought back to the shore and rushed to a local medical centre while authorities searched for the missing teen. The group had ventured into the ocean despite multiple red flags warnings about the rough waters ahead of storm Lees landfall. Republican representative survives after boat incident Sunday 17 September 2023 09:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar Billy Bob Faulkingham, House Republican leader of the Maine Legislature, and another lobsterman survived after their boat overturned while hauling traps ahead of the storm, officials said. The boats emergency locator beacon alerted authorities, and the two clung to the hull until help arrived, said Winter Harbor Police chief Danny Mitchell. The 42-foot boat sank.Theyre very lucky to be alive, Mr Mitchell said. Forecasters urged residents to stay home, but many ventured out anyway. Betsy Follansbee and her husband, Fred, jogged to Higgins Beach in Scarborough, Maine, to watch surfers some wearing helmets paddling out to catch waves reaching 12 feet. They were the biggest waves Follansbee has seen in her 10 years living there, she said.Were impressed that theyre bold enough to try, Ms Follansbee said. Climate change could bring more monster storms to New England Sunday 17 September 2023 08:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar When it comes to hurricanes, New England cant compete with Florida or the Caribbean. But scientists said Friday the arrival of storms like Hurricane Lee this weekend could become more common in the region as the planet warms, including in places such as the Gulf of Maine. One recent study found climate change could result in hurricanes expanding their reach more often into mid-latitude regions, which include New York, Boston and even Beijing. The study says the factors include warmer sea surface temperatures in these regions and the shifting and weakening of the jet streams, which are the strong bands of air currents encircling the planet in both hemispheres. More here. Climate change could bring more monster storms like Hurricane Lee to New England Thousands left without power and flights cancelled as Lee makes landfall Sunday 17 September 2023 07:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar Thousands of people were left without power as storm Lee made landfall in Nova Scotia, flooding roads and fanning anxiety in a region still reeling from wildfires and severe flooding this summer. The province's largest airport, Halifax Stanfield International, cancelled all flights. "People are exhausted. ... It's so much in such a small time period," said Pam Lovelace, a councilor in Halifax. The storm was so big that it caused power outages several hundred miles from its center. At midday Saturday, 11 per cent of electricity customers in Maine lacked power, along with 27 per cent of Nova Scotia, 8 per cent of New Brunswick and 3 per cent of Prince Edward Island. Hurricane-force winds extended as far as 140 miles from Lee's center, with tropical storm-force winds extending as far as 320 miles enough to cover all of Maine and much of Maritime Canada. Strong winds batter Nova Scotia Sunday 17 September 2023 06:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar People walk in the rain and wind from Post-Tropical Cyclone Lee (Getty Images) A tree on the ground is pictured after taking down the power lines and shutting off access to this road in Liverpool, Nova Scotia (REUTERS) Motorist killed after storm Lee makes landfall Sunday 17 September 2023 05:49 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar A 51-year-old motorist in Searsport, Maine, died after a large tree limb fell on his vehicle Saturday on US Highway 1 during a period of high winds, the first fatality attributed to the storm. The tree limb brought down live power lines, and utility workers had to cut power before the man could be removed, said Police chief Brian Lunt. The unidentified man died later at a hospital, he said. Sunday 17 September 2023 05:00 , Kelly Rissman FEMA will deploy help to the East Coast FEMA and the Biden-Harris Administration are prepared and prepositioned to support needs that may arise. FEMA is working closely with other federal agencies and non-profit organizations to coordinate a whole-of-community response to serve residents and communities in the potentially affected areas.FEMA deployed three Incident Management Assistance Teams, with additional teams ready to support, and Urban Search and Rescue teams are in the region to help with rescues, if needed.The American Red Cross has prepositioned staff across Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts, and is prepared to provide shelter, if necessary. The Salvation Army has personnel and supplies prepared, including its canteen truck that provides water, comfort and hot meals for 1,200 to 2,500 people. Sunday 17 September 2023 04:00 , Kelly Rissman Restoring power in Maine could take days Central Maine Power told WMTV that restoration could be a multi-day event, and could take until Monday and extend to Tuesday. John Breed from CMP told the outlet: Right now, we are making every effort to get power back on because we understand there are consequences beyond just sitting in the dark. Earlier on Saturday, there were nearly 60,000 reports of CMP customers without power. Sunday 17 September 2023 03:00 , Kelly Rissman Lee has been a long time in the making Post-Tropical Cyclone #Lee has officially made landfall in Nova Scotia with sustained winds of 70 MPH (tropical storm strength). This comes 11 days after the system first emerged as a tropical depression in the Atlantic. pic.twitter.com/siOmI6Yobs Tucker Antico (@tuckerweather) September 16, 2023 Sunday 17 September 2023 02:00 , Kelly Rissman Lee brings a rainbow A Weather Channel correspondent posted a photo of a rainbow in Portland, Maine as the heavy rains hit the coast. As #Lee pushes away from the Maine coast, a full rainbow appeared off Portland. Beautiful. Our team continues live coverage on @weatherchannel Sunday morning. pic.twitter.com/J6X7MiecWX Justin Michaels (@JMichaelsNews) September 16, 2023 Sunday 17 September 2023 01:00 , Kelly Rissman The forecast for the next few days... According to the National Hurricane Centers 5pm advisory: A faster northeastward motion is expected during the next day or so, taking the system across the Canadian Maritimes. Maximum sustained winds are near 70 mph (110 km/h) with higher gusts. Steady weakening is forecast during the next couple of days. Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 320 miles (520 km) from the center. An observing site in Halifax, Canada, reported a sustained wind of 52 mph (83 km/h) and a gust to 60 mph (96 km/h). An observation in Vinal Haven, Maine, reported a sustained wind of 44 mph (71 km/h). Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 320 miles (520 km) from the center. Wind Speed Probabilities for Lee (National Hurricane Center) Sunday 17 September 2023 00:00 , Kelly Rissman Many Maine residents are without power Shortly after Lee made landfall, nearly 60,000 residents had reported power outages. Central Maine Power urged locals to stay away from power lines and said to notify them by phone or through their website if an outage occurs. Were urging our customers to use caution when traveling during this storm and to stay away from power lines. These images from Rockland show the extent of damage our crews are seeing today. Falling trees present serious hazards. No one was believed to be injured in these photos. pic.twitter.com/5RKezoQAU1 Central Maine Power (@cmpco) September 16, 2023 Saturday 16 September 2023 23:00 , Kelly Rissman Lee touches down Hurricane Lee made landfall in Western Novia Scotia on Saturday afternoonThe maximum sustained winds were whipping at 70mph, as of 4pm when the storm made landfall. Since Saturday morning, hurricane-force winds, heavy rains, and coastal flooding have affected regions along the east coast. The National Hurricane Center said at 8am on Saturday that the maximum sustained winds reached 80mph. Read the full story: Hurricane Lee makes landfall Bryan Kohberger appeared in court on September 13 to request a ban on cameras in the courtroom (Getty) The father of one of the four University of Idaho students fatally stabbed in November 2022 has told Fox News Digital that he believes the sole murder suspect, Bryan Kohberger, is receiving special treatment while awaiting trial in jail. Kohberger has been held without bail at the Latah County Jail in Moscow, Idaho, since January, following his arrest on December 30, 2022. Steve Goncalves, whose daughter Kaylee, 21, was slain in the attack, said, Ive been informed that his pretrial privileges, like his five suits, video and computer special treatment and vegan meals are unprecedented in the history of Idaho. When Kohberger was booked into the jail, Latah County Sheriff Richard Skiles said it had received Kohbergers request for vegan meals and would accommodate, but we are not going to buy new pots and pans. A family member had previously told the New York Post that Kohberger went above and beyond being vegan, saying relatives had to buy new pots and pans because he would not eat from anything that had ever had meat cooked in them, Kohberger entered court initially wearing an orange jumpsuit, but in his most recent court appearance on September 13, he wore a suit and tie, which led Mr Goncalves to question who paid for it. His request for information has been denied due to a gag order in place. They wont tell us, he said. But I witnessed the moment they agreed not to handcuff him in court. Prosecutors have surveillance camera evidence, cellphone records and DNA of Kohberger connecting him to the murders, according to an affidavit that CBS obtained access to. On November 13, 2022, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin (both 20), Maddie Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves (both 21) were found dead by police after being stabbed to death with a military-style knife, in a case which has shocked the community. In Kohbergers first appearance at Latah County District Court in January, he was seen wearing an orange jail jumpsuit (Getty) The murder weapon has not been found, and 28-year-old Kohberger was arrested after a weeks-long manhunt. At the time, he was studying for a PhD in Criminology at Washington State University. A grand jury indicted him on one burglary charge and four counts of first-degree murder, however at a court appearance on May 22, 2023, at Latah County District Court, County District Judge John Judge entered a not guilty plea on his behalf, as he refused a plea deal. Kohberger has also delayed trial proceedings indefinitely after waiving his right to a speedy trial, meaning the original October 2, 2023 date no longer stands. Prosecutors and the defence recently attended a court hearing after both parties requested to restrict cameras in the courtroom. Kohbergers attorney Anne Taylor told the judge the media were focusing on his crotch. Meanwhile, the prosecution said that cameras will have a substantial chilling effect on the ability of witnesses to openly, fully and candidly testify about some horrible occurrences. Cook County Jail on Oct. 28, 2022. Cook County Jail on Oct. 28, 2022. Criminal justice advocates in Illinois are celebrating a major victory this week. On Monday, Illinois became the first state to fully abolish the cash bail system, meaning defendants will no longer be held in jail because they cant pay. The provision of the SAFE-T Act abolishing cash bail went into effect on Monday, revolutionizing the bail process state-wide. But what exactly does it mean to abolish cash bail? The Root has you covered with everything you need to know about the changes. Read more Defendants and their families who cant afford bail can get a loan from commercial bail companies in exchange for a premium fee. However, these fees can be astronomical (i.e., a $13,000 fee for financing a $1,000 bond) and can drive already low-income families further into poverty. Is Cash Bail A Racial Justice Issue? Many critics of cash bail also point to the rampant racial disparities within the bail system. People of color are more likely to be assigned cash bail than white defendants. And Black men, on average, are charged significantly higher bail amounts than their white counterparts. What Happens Now? Defendants will no longer have to pay for their release, and people who are already being held on cash bail can now put in a request for their release. To be clear, the end of cash bail in Illinois doesnt mean every defendant will be released while awaiting trial. Judges will still have discretion to detain a defendant if they believe they pose a flight risk or a risk to public safety. (This is also fraught since advocates argue that race is often used as a proxy for dangerousness.) Illinois will almost certainly find itself under the microscope as both critics and advocates of reform watch closely to see how the changes shake out. More from The Root Sign up for The Root's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Illinois eliminated cash bail as a condition of pretrial release Monday after a state Supreme Court decision this summer ruled that a new law abolishing the practice was constitutional. That law, the Illinois Pretrial Fairness Act, makes Illinois the first state in the nation to completely get rid of monetary cash bail. Defendants accused of a specific list of felonies and violent misdemeanors can still be detained ahead of trial, but the burden will be on the state to argue the defendant poses a flight risk or a danger to the community. Cash bail has been decried as a penalty on poverty, with opponents of the practice claiming it gives preferential treatment to wealthy people who can afford to pay for their freedom, as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) put it after the states high court upheld the law. This landmark ruling refutes false narratives about cash bail. The truth is that abolishing cash bail improves public safety by allowing people to return to their communities and families who would otherwise be in jail only because they cant pay for their freedom, the ACLU wrote in a statement in July after the ruling. When people can go home, take care of their families, and keep up with school or work, that stability makes all our communities safer and stronger, the group added. Opponents of the move worry that it will weaken law enforcements ability to keep communities safe by locking up suspected criminals. Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle told NBC News in Chicago that they were prepared to implement the new law. As a result of nearly two years of thoughtful and collaborative preparation, Cook County is ready to implement the new procedures required by the Pretrial Fairness Act, Preckwinkle told NBC. As our court system transitions to the new procedures, my administration will continue to provide resources and support to ensure our continued success. Starting Monday, those defendants currently jailed under a cash bail order will get a release hearing. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Senate Republicans say there isnt an appetite within their conference for holding a third impeachment trial in five years, with some warning it is a political loser ahead of next years election. Members of Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnells (R-Ky.) leadership team are already lowering the stakes of any impeachment proceeding by declaring it would have no chance of resulting in a conviction and removing President Biden from office. I sense very little appetite for a third impeachment trial, said Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), a member of the Senate GOP leadership team. The House is going to do what the House is going to do, and then well have certain time frames to deal with it. Other Republican senators are cringing at the thought of sitting through another impeachment trial after slogging through the lengthy arguments presented at former President Trumps impeachment trials in 2020 and 2021, both of which resulted in acquittals. The second of those trials also divided Republicans, with seven GOP senators voting to convict Trump. Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah), who announced his retirement this week, is the only GOP senator who voted to convict Trump in both trials. Senators are groaning at the prospect of spending weeks on yet another impeachment trial that is certain to result in an acquittal in a Senate held by Democrats when theres enough floor time to consider the many other legislative agenda items that they view as higher priorities. I am so weary, said Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska). Were seeing the threshold or bar for impeachment going lower and lower. Are we to expect this with every incoming president? Asked if she would want to have a trial, Murkowski said: I am not anxious for this at all and I dont think so, no. Senate Republican Whip John Thune (S.D.) told reporters that he does not think it would be advantageous if this thing went further, with all the other things we have to do. Even Trumps closest Senate allies are hoping to avoid an impeachment trial. Im not for going through another damn trial, to be honest with you, Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) told CNN. The sour view of the House impeachment effort among Senate Republicans will give cover to moderate Democrats such as Sens. Joe Manchin (W.Va.) and Jon Tester (Mont.) and Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.) to vote to dismiss any articles of impeachment before the start of a trial. Democrats say unless House Republicans turn up strong evidence that Biden committed high crimes and misdemeanors, the standard set by the Constitution, they would push a resolution to dismiss articles of impeachment as soon as they get to the Senate. It would be totally partisan and driven solely by the politics of a presidential election year, Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) said of the Republican impeachment inquiry. Theres nothing there. My first question as a former prosecutor is, Whats the evidence? he said. After so many investigations and so much effort to find something wrong without partisan success, I just think its a complete distraction from what the American people are seeking for us to do. Blumenthal said he would vote to immediately dismiss articles of impeachment based on what I know now, unless theres something there that justifies having a trial. Senate Democrats control 51 seats and could dismiss the articles of impeachment on a straight party-line vote. Tester, who faces a tough reelection in a state that Trump won with comfortable margins in 2016 and 2020, guffawed out loud when asked about the prospect of holding a third impeachment trial in four or five years. Im sure people are laying awake, cant wait for it, he quipped. If you look at some of the comments from some of the Republicans, I dont think theyre very excited about it either. One Republican senator who requested anonymity to comment on the presentation that the lead House impeachment investigators made to the Senate GOP conference on Wednesday called the inquiry futile. Its a futile effort. Politically I think its a loser, for sure, the senator said. GOP senators warn privately that if an article of impeachment against Biden is rejected by a majority vote of Republicans and Democrats in the Senate, it would be a political win for Biden heading into the 2024 election. They note that the impeachment of then-President Clinton backfired in 1998 when Democrats picked up five House seats in that years midterm election, despite the long historical trend of the presidents party losing seats in the midterm election of a second presidential term. House Oversight and Accountability Committee Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) and House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), who are leading the impeachment inquiry, did not lay out any timeline for bringing articles of impeachment up for a vote when they briefed the Senate Steering Committee on Wednesday. Jordan told The Hill that the timeline would be driven by the facts. Any charges against Biden could be dismissed by a majority vote, as motions offered during a Senate impeachment trial are not debatable and cannot be filibustered under the Senate rules. Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) attempted to dismiss the impeachment charge against Trump at the start of his 2021 impeachment trial but the motion was tabled by a 55-45 vote, with five Republicans voting with all Democrats to proceed with the trial. A year earlier, Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) and other Republicans sponsored a resolution to dismiss the articles of impeachment against Trump for what they called lack of prosecution in the House. The trial was still held, and Trump was acquitted on two charges. Republican senators say they see no chance of securing a conviction against Biden, which would require 67 votes. I dont think that its going to result a removal on the Senate side, said Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.). Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), a member of the Senate GOP leadership team, said, I dont know of anybody who believes Chuck Schumer will take it up and have a trial and convict a sitting president. Tuberville, a Trump ally, told NBCs Meet the Press last week that articles of impeachment couldnt get the votes to convict Biden. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. China sets world's first geothermal industry standard Xinhua) 10:54, September 18, 2023 BEJING, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- China released the world's first geothermal industry standard at the 2023 World Geothermal Congress, which concluded on Sunday in Beijing. The standard recommends medium-to-low-temperature hydrothermal geothermal heating practices, based on China's own heating practices. Previous tests carried out in north China's Hebei Province have demonstrated that the standard can ensure the sustainable development and usage of geothermal heating projects. Contributors to the standard include Sinopec Group, the China National Petroleum Corporation, Tsinghua University, the China University of Petroleum and the China University of Geosciences. This is the first year that China has hosted the World Geothermal Congress. The event ran from Friday to Sunday and was themed "Clean Geothermal, Green Earth." Over 1,400 guests from 54 countries attended the congress, which was hosted by the National Geothermal Energy Center and organized by Sinopec Group. (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun) A group picture taken at the Lecture Hall of CCG in Beijing, Sept. 14, 2023. [Photo courtesy of CCG] A seminar with the theme "Accelerating Progress Toward the 2030 Agenda: China's Progress, Challenges, and Path Forward," co-hosted by the Center for China and Globalization (CCG) and the United Nations (U.N.) in China, brought together leading figures from Chinese ministries and departments, the diplomatic community, and scholars from research institutes and academia to explore China's path toward sustainable development in anticipation of the SDG (Sustainable Development Goals) Summit on Sept. 18-19 at the U.N. Headquarters in New York. The seminar, which combined both online and offline components, aimed to establish a roadmap for achieving the SDGs amidst multiple and interconnected crises such as climate change, poverty, inequality and conflict. Dr. Henry Huiyao Wang, president of the CCG, delivers his opening address during a seminar held at the CCG in Beijing, Sept. 14, 2023. [Photo courtesy of CCG] During his opening speech, Dr. Henry Huiyao Wang, president of the CCG, presented three recommendations aimed at promoting sustainable development, stimulating domestic economic growth, and fostering collaborative development among various global gateways. He placed particular emphasis on the significant role played by the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in advancing the progress of countries relevant to the 2030 Agenda. Mr. Siddharth Chatterjee, U.N. resident coordinator in China, delivers his speech during a seminar held at the CCG in Beijing, Sept. 14, 2023. [Photo courtesy of CCG] Mr. Siddharth Chatterjee, U.N. resident coordinator in China, highlighted that China has been a trailblazer in promoting South-South Cooperation (SSC), emphasizing the significant assistance and expertise provided through the BRI to other developing nations. This assistance spans crucial areas such as infrastructure development, capacity-building, and technological innovation. By generously sharing China's own development experiences and actively supporting the progress of fellow developing countries, China has laid a solid foundation for the pursuit of the commitments outlined in the 2030 Agenda. Zhao Fengtao, vice-chairman of the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), speaks during a seminar held at the CCG in Beijing, Sept. 14, 2023. [Photo courtesy of CCG] Zhao Fengtao, vice-chairman of the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), underscored China's remarkable contribution to achieving the SDG target of eradicating poverty in all its forms. He called for enhanced cooperation among all stakeholders to increase their efforts in rural revitalization, energy transition, and responsible consumption. During his keynote address, Zhou Taidong, vice president of the Center for International Knowledge on Development (CIKD), emphasized China's achievements. He noted that over the past 40 years, China has successfully lifted an impressive 770 million people out of extreme poverty, ensuring food security and embarking on a new journey toward the collective pursuit of the SDGs on a broader scale. He also introduced the Global Development Report 2023, which illustrates China's significant role in the global sustainable development landscape. During the panel discussion, panelists expressed their views on China's global SDG efforts, discussing best practices, innovative approaches, and successful models implemented in various regions of China. Ms. Amakobe Sande, country representative of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), shared her insights on addressing regional disparities and ensuring equitable access to education, healthcare, and social welfare for children worldwide. She expressed hope that China's practices in development and gender equality could be replicated in other countries. Professor Xu Xiuli, dean of the College of International Development and Global Agriculture at China Agricultural University, emphasized China's role in sharing agricultural knowledge, providing assistance, and transferring skills among small- and medium-sized farms globally. She stressed the importance of better linking China's aid system with international development assistance. Around 30 participants, including researchers and relevant department leaders, participated in the seminar. It is anticipated that the seminar's outcomes will inform discussions at the upcoming SDG Summit scheduled to take place on Sept. 18-19 in New York City, where responses to the impact of multiple and interlocking global crises will be addressed. Two cheetahs are seen inside a quarantine section before being relocated to India at a reserve near Bella Bella, South Africa, Sunday, Sept. 4, 2022. Three cheetah cubs, born to a big cat brought to India from Africa last year, died in May, 2023. Their mother was among the 20 that India flew in from Namibia and South Africa, as a part of an ambitious and hotly contested plan to reintroduce them to Indian grasslands. Credit - Denis FarrellAP Photo Last September, eight radio-collared cheetahs made the 5,000-mile-long journey from Namibia to India, eventually landing at Kuno National Park in the central state of Madhya Pradesh. Their arrival marked the final phase of a 13-year-long effort called Project Cheetah, which aims to reintroduce the big cat species to Indias grasslands 70 years after they were hunted into oblivion. The projects launch also coincided with the 72nd birthday of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi , who celebrated by personally releasing the first cat from its crate into the park. Decades ago, the age-old link of biodiversity that was broken and became extinct, today we have a chance to restore it, Modi said in his address. Today, the cheetah has returned to the soil of India. Project Cheetah entered its second year yesterday (Sept. 17), but the fate of the high-profile conservation project hangs in the balance after nine out of 20 cheetahs, including three cubs, have died of various causes since March. Authorities have recaptured the remaining cats and kept them in enclosures for close monitoring and supervision, where they will continue to remain until a government-appointed committee of wildlife experts approves their re-release into the wild. More From TIME These setbacks have raised concerns from an international community of conservationists involved in the project, who say inexperience and mismanagementas well as the governments politicization and sidelining of expert opinionsmay have contributed to the cheetah deaths. Why does India want to reintroduce cheetahs? Asiatic cheetahs once roamed the grasslands of the Indian subcontinent for many centuries alongside lions, tigers, and leopards until they became a hunting target of princely rulers and British colonizers. In 1952, they were officially declared extinct in India. Since then, India has held many discussions on how to reintroduce the animal back to its ecosystem and considered offers from the governments of Iran and Kenya. In 2009, the Indian government officially proposed the introduction of African cheetahs, but the Supreme Court halted these efforts in 2012 after some wildlife experts said importing African animals violated international conservation standards. The top court reversed its decision in early 2020, allowing the import of cheetahsbut in small numbers and on an experimental basis. Following the relocation of the first six cats from Namibia, a second group of cheetahs arrived from South Africa in February. About a dozen more cats are planned to be brought from African countries every year for the next five years in an attempt to establish a cheetah population of around 40. The Indian government plans to spend 40 crore rupees, or nearly $11 million, on the project. Indias motivation stems from the desire to restore a vital element of its ecological heritage, SP Yadav, who leads Project Cheetah on behalf of the Indian Environment Ministry's forestry department, tells TIME. By bringing them back, India aims to showcase its commitment to conservation and biodiversity restoration. Ensuring Project Cheetahs success is also a matter of national pride, adds Yadav, nodding to the Modi governments aspirations to grow Indias wealth and scientific knowledge. During the cheetahs release last September, Modi told spectators that along with these cheetahs, the nature-loving consciousness of India has also awakened with full force. In a statement, Laurie Marker, the executive director of the Cheetah Conservation Fund, which is also advising the project in India, said global conservationists saw the project as central to ensuring cheetah survival transcends national boundaries. Why did the cheetahs start dying? The first death of Indias new cheetahs occurred when Sasha, a female, died from a pre-existing medical condition in March, followed by the sudden, unexplained death of Uday, a male, in April. Then, in May, another female cat named Daksha died from a violent mating incident. Two separate cubs found to be weak, underweight, and dehydrated also perished. Several more cheetahs died in July and August from various factors including humidity, maggot infestations, and infections caused by the radio collars, alarming the experts, Yadav says. Even in South Africa and Namibia, such problems had not been reported, he says. In July, authorities began recapturing the rest of the free-ranging cheetahs to prevent more deaths. Many cheetah experts working in African conservation projects, who have also advised the program in India, have nevertheless expressed concerns. They say that while it is typical for half of the original population to die in the first year of relocation due to poaching or environmental difficulties, better monitoring and timely veterinary intervention could have prevented the deaths that have occurred so far. Adrian Tordiffe, a South African cheetah expert serving on the Indian governments advisory committee for Project Cheetah, says he was frustrated by the cheetahs deaths. From a veterinary point of view, we are always trained towards saving every single individual life, he says. Tordiffe also describes the project as very difficult to navigate. Earlier in the year, he says he and other foreign experts were excluded from committee meetings and experienced delays in communications with Indian officials, especially when the cheetahs were injured. Im sure theyve got very good experience with tigers in India, but this is a new and unique species [for modern India], he adds. We can often pick up little things and give advice on how to manage the situation as see a lot of clinical cases. Tordiffe speculates the lack of communication may have been due to a hesitation from the Indian side to publicly acknowledge cheetah deaths. The whole culture is very different; they tend to feel you have to keep things quiet, he says. Its especially concerning since India is one of the few places with dedicated veterinary support and monitoring of individual cheetahs, Tordiffe adds. We don't have that luxury in many of these kinds of projects, so its truly remarkable, he says. In July, Tordiffe and other Namibian and South African experts involved in the project raised these concerns in a letter written to Indias Supreme Court, where they alleged their roles as advisers had been reduced to mere window-dressing. (Two experts have since withdrawn their names from the letter out of concern that it could impede future exports of the animal from Africa.) Another letter by CCFs Marker asked for better communication [and a willingness to] trust experts, according to the Indian Express. The government responded by saying the deaths did not call for alarm despite the project having had its challenges. The top court instructed the Indian government to consider a better home for the cheetahs: "You should look at other possibilities ... Why are you making this a prestige issue? the court asked in July. The cheetahs have yet to be relocated elsewhere. What happens next? The upheaval meant Kuno missed its target date for opening the park up to tourists in February, but conservationists hope the project will rebound as it enters its second year. Yadav contends the project is already seeing some promise, pointing to the 50% survival rate of the cheetahs and the birth of cubs in Kuno. The success of this project will open up possibilities for rewilding initiatives worldwide, he adds. In Kuno, workers point to Aasha, a Namibian female, who has so far survived and happily explored her new surroundings, as an example of positive hope for the future of cheetahs in India. In a recent newsletter, the national park stated that Aashas journey taught us that cheetahs can survive Indian conditions without changing their behavior much. Tordiffe, the South African cheetah expert, says its important the project succeed, as it can serve as a model for future wildlife management. We don't live in a world where we can allow normal evolution to take place at its own pace because we are changing the world too fast for many of these animals to be able to adapt, he warns. And so we must take responsibility to have this kind of active wildlife management. Nevertheless, Tordiffe says that Project Cheetah has taught him one new thing in the field of animal conservation. You can be the best biologist or veterinarian, but in a high-profile project like this, youve also got to be savvy in terms of the political context, he says. Write to Astha Rajvanshi at astha.rajvanshi@time.com. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi,center, greets the media as he arrives for five-day special session of the Parliament, in New Delhi, India, Monday, Sept. 18, 2023. Monday's sitting is the last one to be held in the old parliament building and the future proceedings will be moved to a new building from Tuesday. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup) NEW DELHI (AP) Indian lawmakers sat in the last session before moving to a new Parliament building, responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modi s call Monday that saw him lauding Indias parliamentary history and the recently concluded Group of 20 summit. Major opposition parties in May boycotted the inauguration of the new Parliament, calling it extravagant, in a rare show of unity against Modi's Hindu nationalist ruling party, which has governed for nine years and is seeking a third term in next years elections. The new triangular-shaped building was built at an estimated cost of $120 million. It's part of a $2.8 billion revamp of British-era offices and residences in central New Delhi that will also include blocks of buildings for government ministries and departments, as well as Modis new private residence. The entire project, called the Central Vista, is spread over 3.2 kilometers (1.9 miles). The lawmakers will move into the new building on Tuesday, Speaker Om Birla said. In his speech in the lower house, Modi feted his government for the G20 summit that saw India forging a compromise among divided world powers on major global issues. He emphasized Indias role in the inclusion of the African Union in the G20 and spoke about last months successful lunar mission that saw the country landing a spacecraft near the moons south pole. Indias power ensured consensus on G20 declaration, Modi said. Modi also spoke about Parliaments history and some of his governments major decisions that were taken in the House. The announcement of the five-day special session last month was criticized by the opposition lawmakers, who said the Modi government had not made its parliamentary agenda public. Last week the government released a tentative list" that mentioned four bills, including a controversial measure that is expected to change how Indias chief election officer is appointed. The new building sits just across from the old Parliament, a circular structure designed by British architects in the early 20th century. The new four-story building has a total of 1,272 seats in two chambers, almost 500 more than the previous one. A view shows India's new (L) and old parliament buildings during the first day of the five-day long special session in New Delhi A view shows India's new (L) and old parliament buildings during the first day of the five-day long special session in New Delhi By Rupam Jain NEW DELHI (Reuters) - Prime Minister Narendra Modi and lawmakers paid tribute on Monday to India's parliament on the eve of its shift from a British colonial-era building to a brand new complex. Built by British architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker two decades before India's 1947 independence, the old parliament witnessed the tortuous birth of the republic and thereafter served as a custodian of the world's biggest democracy. Now it is to become a museum, its 788 members moving to a new, triangular-shaped complex as part of a $2.4 billion rebuild of institutions with a more Indian identity. "Today is an occasion to recollect and reminisce the parliamentary journey of 75 years of India before the proceedings are shifted to the newly inaugurated building," Modi told a special session before Tuesday's move. In May, Modi inaugurated the new parliament, part of an ambitious redevelopment of the Central Vista complex in New Delhi, amid protests from opposition parties who had wanted India's president to inaugurate instead. The new, larger four-storey building can seat 1,272. "It is a very emotional moment to bid farewell to the old parliament building ... Its glory also belongs to us," Modi told lawmakers in the lower house of the old parliament. His speech marked the start of a five-day special session called by the government, but there was no immediate confirmation on bills up for discussion. Indian lawmakers usually meet thrice a year: a budget session, a monsoon session and a winter session. While opposition leaders questioned the significance of the special session, they bid farewell to the old building and looked forward to better logistics, security and technology. (Reporting by Rupam Jain; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne) FILE - Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita speaks, Nov. 8, 2022, in Schererville, Ind. On Monday, Sept. 18, 2023, a complaint was filed alleging that Rokita violated professional conduct rules in statements about Dr. Caitlin Bernard, a doctor who performed an abortion on a 10-year-old rape victim who traveled from Ohio to Indiana for the procedure. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) INDIANAPOLIS (AP) A complaint filed Monday alleges that Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita violated professional conduct rules in statements he made about a doctor who performed an abortion on a 10-year-old rape victim last year. The Indiana Supreme Courts disciplinary commission references an interview Rokita gave in July 2022 about Dr. Caitlin Bernard on a Fox News show, The Indianapolis Star reported. The commission also alleges in its complaint that Rokita, a Republican who is anti-abortion, violated confidentiality requirements by making statements about an investigation into Bernard prior to filing a complaint with the state's Medical Licensing Board. Rokita in his response filed with the state Supreme Court denied the confidentiality charge, arguing no confidentiality should be required because Bernard had first discussed the 10-year-olds story publicly. Bernard, an Indianapolis obstetrician-gynecologist, gave the girl a medication-induced abortion in June 2022 and received widespread attention after she gave an interview to the Indianapolis Star about the child. The doctors account of the rape victim traveling from Ohio to Indiana to receive abortion drugs became a flashpoint in the abortion debate days after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade last summer. Indiana was the first state to approve abortion restrictions after the courts decision. The near-total abortion ban recently took effect after legal battles. Bernard later filed a tort claim notice against Rokita, accusing him of making false statements about her and her work. Rokita filed a federal lawsuit against Indiana University Health last Friday claiming the state's largest hospital system violated patient privacy laws when Bernard publicly shared the girl's story. Rokita's lawsuit also names IU Healthcare Associates. Bernard was reprimanded by Indianas medical licensing board in May, saying she didnt abide by privacy laws by speaking publicly about the girls treatment. Hospital system officials have argued against that assertion. Gerson Fuentes, 28, who confessed to raping and impregnating the Ohio girl, was sentenced to life in prison in July. (The Hill) Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita (R) has filed a lawsuit against the health system where a 10-year-old Ohio girl received abortion services last year after being denied in her home state, alleging the institution failed to enforce HIPAA. In July of last year, Indiana OB-GYN Caitlin Bernard, employed by IU Health, garnered national attention after sharing with the Indianapolis Star her account of providing abortion services to a 10-year-old girl from Ohio who had been raped. This story quickly drew the ire of conservatives including Rokita who accused Bernard of failing to abide by Indiana patient privacy and mandatory reporting laws. Rokita filed a complaint with the Indiana Medical Licensing Board against Bernard, alleging the physician had violated her patients privacy. The board ultimately determined that Bernard had violated privacy laws and issued a reprimand and $3,000 fine against her. Throughout this conflict, IU Health maintained that Bernard had followed Indianas abortion reporting laws, and it would later state that it disagreed with the licensing boards decision. Federal court hears first oral arguments in legal battle over Medicare negotiation But in a statement on Friday, Rokita alleged the health system violated numerous laws by supporting Bernard, accusing it of failing to prevent HIPAA violations in various ways and of being deceptive to consumers. We are requesting that the court issue a permanent injunction to prevent IU Health and the other defendants from continuing to violate HIPAA and for the maximum amount of fines, restitutions, penalties and damages allowed by law and that includes violations of Indianas medical privacy laws, Rokita said in a statement. When reached for comment, the company said in a statement, At IU Health, we hold ourselves accountable every day for providing quality healthcare and securing privacy for our patients. We continue to be disappointed the Indiana Attorney Generals office persists in putting the states limited resources toward this matter. We will respond directly to the AGs office on the filing. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. The police chief of Indiana University has been dismissed following the 2022 arrest of a Black graduate student over a $3 parking fee and subsequent lawsuit filed against the school in Bloomington, Indiana. Moses Baryoh Jr. was arrested on Sept. 7, 2022, after the parking attendants at the IU campus gym parking lot called the police after refusing his cash payment for a $3 parking fee. Baryoh who was pursuing his masters degree in public health in administration and behavior at the time while working for Sexual Violence Prevention and Victim Advocacy at the university had just finished his workout at the universitys gym when he tried to pay the $3 parking fee with a $5 bill. Moses Baryoh Jr. is arrested after a parking attendant refused his cash payment for a $3 parking fee and called the police in Bloomington, Indiana. (Photo: Screenshot Indiana University of Bloomington Police Body camera footage) However, the parking attendant told the graduate student that he could only pay with a card attached to his bursar account for an additional $10. The attendant then opened the gate after some miscommunication, and Baryoh later noted that he drove home with the understanding that his bursar account would be charged for the fee. Related: It Was Totally Unprovoked: Woman Drags 13-Year-Old to the Floor In Vicious Random Attack In Los Angeles McDonalds While Onlookers Just Stand By and Film However, the parking attendants called the police, and IU Police Department officers Austin Magness and Charlotte Watts were dispatched to his home after first obtaining his picture from IU staff. Baryoh was in the shower when the officers knocked, and he yelled that he was in the shower and couldnt hear anything. The officers returned to their car but later returned upon seeing Baryoh wearing no shirt and a pair of shorts outside and detained him. They did not immediately mention the parking dispute, body camera footage shows. You Moses? asked Magness after seeing Baryoh outside. Yeah, replied Baryoh. Whats up, Buddy? Can you come chat with me real fast? Do you have any idea why Im here? I dont, replied Baryoh as Magness told him to sit, but he declined and asked why he was being asked to sit. A seat? Why? Can you just work with me, man? said Magness. Im working with you, replied Baryoh. I can get my identification, he said as he motioned toward his apartment. Can you all tell me what this is about? Can you work with us first? replied Magness. Read the full story on Atlanta Black Star. After Baryoh declined to get any closer to the officers, who were standing on one side of a car while the student calmly stood on the other, Magness walked over to Bayroh and grabbed him, put him against the vehicle, and said, Put your hands behind your back. Youre gonna go to jail, dude. Magness later told Baryoh he was being arrested for not following directions when he told the student to sit down. After being detained and put in the back of the squad car, Baryoh was told why the police were there. I was scared, Baryoh told the officers. The criminal charges were later dropped. Baryoh filed a lawsuit on June 6, according to Inside Indiana Business, saying his Fourth and Fourteenth Amendment rights were violated. The lawsuit accused the officers of unreasonable search and seizure, excessive force, false arrest, due process violation, battery, assault and negligence, according to Fox59 News. The lawsuit was settled on Sept. 5, 2023. Former IU police chief Jill Lees conducted an investigation of the arrest in October 2022 but determined no wrongdoing had occurred and no subsequent action was taken. Indiana University released a statement. We are deeply saddened by the behavior and actions that took place and offer our sincere apology to the individual and to our community, read the statement. Indiana University holds our staff, faculty, and leadership to the highest standards of ethical conduct and integrity, including IUPD. The university announced on Sept. 8 that Lees was dismissed from his position. Indigenous people march for the resignation of the Attorney General Consuelo Porras in Guatemala City, Monday, Sept. 18, 2023. President-elect Bernardo Arevalo has called people to protest efforts to derail his presidency before he can take office and for the attorney general's resignation, due to its office's investigations related to the registration of Arevalo's Seed Movement party, and alleged fraud in the election. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo) GUATEMALA CITY (AP) Thousands of indigenous supporters protested in Guatemala City on Monday to defend Guatemalas president-elect as government prosecutors seek to ban his political party. Many of the protesters carried banners or chanted slogans demanding the resignation of government officials who have sought to prosecute Bernardo Arevalo and ban his Seed Movement party. Aleisar Arana, a leader of the Xinca ethnic group, called the prosecutions an attempt at a coup. The coup that the prosecution is leading must be stopped, Arana said. Protesters threatened to keep demonstrating until the efforts against Arevalo are stopped. Arevalo won the Aug. 20 presidential runoff in a landslide, but prosecutors have continued pursuing multiple investigations related to the registration of Arevalos Seed Movement party, and alleged fraud in the election. International observers have said that is not supported by evidence. Arevalo announced plans last week to call Guatemalans into the streets to protest efforts to derail his presidency before he can take office, he said Friday in an interview with The Associated Press. A coalition of academic and rights groups issued a statement Monday saying that international pressure should be stepped up to ensure Guatemala respects the results of the elections. Arevalo said he has tried his own legal maneuvers to stop those who want to keep him from power, but now its necessary for the people to come out to the streets to support him. He said he wants to see businesspeople, farmers, Indigenous groups, and workers all come out. Arevalo, a progressive lawmaker and academic, shocked Guatemala by making it into the runoff in which he beat former first lady Sandra Torres by more than 20 points. The attorney generals office has said it is only following the law, but has come under intense criticism within Guatemala and abroad for what appears to be a brazen attempt to keep Arevalo from coming to power, or to weaken him. Arevalo acknowledges the task ahead won't be easy. Hundreds of years of marginalization, discrimination, the accumulated problems of 30 years of corrupt assault on power arent just going to disappear because were here, he said. But if we can start to change, to make the people feel that there are authorities who respond to them. This week, agents from the Attorney Generals Office opened boxes of votes and photographed their contents in an unprecedented violation of Guatemalas electoral law. Arevalo has called for Attorney General Consuelo Porras resignation and said he would temporarily suspend the process of transition from outgoing President Alejandro Giammattei. American prisoners released in a swap deal between U.S. and Iran are greeted at Doha, Qatar, on Tuesday. (Mohammed Dabbous/Reuters) Five Americans who had been jailed for years were freed from Iran on Monday as part of an elaborate diplomatic deal with the U.S. Siamak Namazi, Morad Tahbaz and Emad Shargi, as well as two others, had been detained in Iran for nearly a decade over a series of allegations, including espionage. Two other Americans, who had not been jailed but had been barred from leaving Iran, were also released as part of the agreement. Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home, President Biden said in a statement. I am grateful to our partners at home and abroad for their tireless efforts to help us achieve this outcome, including the Governments of Qatar, Oman, Switzerland, and South Korea." Nasser Kanaani, a spokesman for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, said of the five prisoners released from U.S. custody, two would return to Iran and two would stay in the U.S., and one would travel to a different country where their family lived. U.S. citizens Siamak Namazi, rear right, Emad Sharqi, left, and Morad Tahbaz, center, arriving at the Doha International Airport. (Karim Jaafar/AFP via Getty Images) Journey to freedom The exchange was mediated by Qatar where the prisoners were swapped at the airport in its capital, Doha. Namazi, who had been in prison for over seven years, released an emotional statement in which he thanked those who didnt allow the world to forget me. Read more on Yahoo News: Thank you for being my voice when I could not speak for myself and for making sure I was heard when I mustered the strength to scream from behind the impenetrable walls of Evin Prison, his statement read. Emotional conversation Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he had spoken to prisoners once they landed in Doha, describing it as an emotional conversation. Its easy in the work we do every day to get lost in the distraction of foreign policy ... forgetting the human element in what we do, he said. Today their freedom means some pretty basic things. It means husbands and wives, fathers and children ... can be with each other again. Morad Tahbaz, Siamak Namazi, and Emad Sharghi disembark shoulder to shoulder from the flight that brought them out of Tehran, Iran, to Doha. (Lujain Jo/AP) The deal between Iran and the U.S. had been months in the making and was accomplished after a number of secret talks and discussions over diplomatic contracts, a source familiar with the deal told Reuters. Since March 2022, Qatar held eight rounds of meetings between officials from the U.S. and Iran. As part of the deal, the U.S. unfroze about $6 billion of Irans oil revenue that had been held in South Korea since 2018. Qatari confirmed on Monday morning that the money belonging to Iran for selling oil to South Korea had arrived in its banks allowing the final stage of the deal to commence. Later on Monday, Mohammad Reza Farzin confirmed on state TV that Iran had received $5.9 billion, the Associated Press reported. Days before the prisoner exchange, Republicans criticized the deal, claiming $6 billion was a ransom payment and would encourage Iran to detain more Americans. More sanctions against Iran Moments after the prisoner exchange, the Biden administration announced new sanctions against Irans former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, AFP reported. Included on the list was the Iranian Ministry of Intelligence and Security for its history of human rights abuses. An aircraft at the Mehrabad International Airport in Tehran is ready to fly five freed Americans out of Iran. (Reuters) Ahmadinejad was included due to his constant promotion of lies about Bob Levinsons whereabouts that still persist to this day. Levinson was a former FBI agent who disappeared in Iran in 2007. According to reports, he was part of an unauthorized CIA mission before he vanished without a trace. In 2020, Levinson's family released a statement saying they believed he had died while in custody in Iran. He was the longest-held hostage in U.S. history. During his remarks regarding the release of American prisoners from Iran, Blinken said his thoughts were with Levinson. As happy as we are at the freedom of our fellow citizens, we are thinking today of Bob Levinson, he said. Bobs legacy, however, lives on in the Levinson Act, which has given us new and important tools ... that deter the practice of taking Americans ... and turning them into political pawns. Five Americans who spent years imprisoned in Iran were freed on Monday as part of a complex and delicate diplomatic deal that saw five imprisoned Iranians released from the United States. Siamak Namazi , Morad Tahbaz and Emad Shargi , as well as two others who were not identified, were flown out of Tehran to Qatar, and are now flying back to Washington, D.C., on a U.S. government plane. As part of the deal, the Biden administration unfroze nearly $6 billion in Iranian oil revenue that had been held in South Korea since 2018. Also read: What we know about the U.S.-Iran prisoner exchange Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani said that two of the Iranian prisoners held in the United States plan to stay in the U.S., two plan to return to Iran and one would go to a different country where family lived. "Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home," President Biden said in a statement, adding: "As we celebrate the return of these Americans, we also remember those who did not return." Our live coverage has ended for the day. Visit Yahoo News for the latest on the swap, and check out the blog below for a recap of how it unfolded. A KVD002, the People's Liberation Army Ground Force's first combat drone, is displayed in Tianjin. [Photo/China Daily] The People's Liberation Army Ground Force has unveiled its first combat drone, a move observers said will strengthen the service's operational capability. The KVD002 is the PLA Ground Force's first unmanned reconnaissance and strike plane model and features good capability, control and maintenance convenience, and multitasking capacity. The drone is mainly tasked with conducting long-duration reconnaissance over a large area or specific targets, and making precision strikes against enemy targets such as air defense weapons, armored vehicles and fortifications, according to an introduction of the device from the Ground Force. "The drone can cooperate with helicopters in combat operations. It can provide battlefield intelligence and fire support for the helicopter units, and can guide attack helicopters to their targets," the introduction said, adding that the model can make short takeoffs and landings on a plateau. A KVD002 was on display at the 6th China Helicopter Exposition that closed in Tianjin on Sunday, marking its public debut. It had two AR-1 air-to-surface missiles under its wings and carried reconnaissance devices under the main body. The Ground Force did not disclose the KVD002's developer. However, observers said that judged on its configuration and the AR-1 missile, the drone must have been designed based on the Caihong-4, or CH-4, China's bestselling unmanned combat aircraft on the international market. The CH-4 is built by the China Academy of Aerospace Aerodynamics in Beijing, a subsidiary of China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp. The academy is one of China's top military drone exporters. The CH-4 has been sold to more than 10 countries, making it the most popular and combat-proven drone the country has exported, according to statistics from the academy. Information from the academy shows the CH-4 model can stay up to 30 hours in the air in one operation. It has a maximum speed of 230 kilometers per hour but usually operates at cruising speeds of 150 to 180 kph. The drone has a maximum takeoff weight of 1.33 metric tons and can carry nearly 350 kilograms of weapons and equipment including missiles, bombs, radars, cameras as well as civilian payloads. The drone has accumulated more than 20,000 hours of flight time around the world, the academy said. Wang Yanan, chief editor of Aerospace Knowledge magazine, said advanced combat drones can be of great help to the Ground Force because they are capable of staying for long periods over target areas to perform reconnaissance, assaults and damage evaluation. Their deployment could save front-line commanders a lot of hardware and troops that would be needed to infiltrate enemy lines to do the same tasks. Five Americans who have spent years being wrongfully detained in Iran have been released from custody and are heading home, US officials have said. An official briefed on the situation said on Monday that the quintet of newly released detainees were en route to the Qatari capital of Doha on a Qatari aircraft that departed from Tehran earlier in the day. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told CNN that administration officials would not breathe easy until the five former detainees were back on US soil with their families, but he said the Qatari plane carrying the American quintet is expected to land in Doha by 10.30 am Eastern Time, after which all five would be heading back to the US. Big day, big development and were obviously all very, very happy, he said. Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani said the release will hopefully be completed alongside the other elements of the deal during a press conference on state-run Press TV on Monday. Three of the formerly wrongfully detained Americans Emad Shargi, Morad Tahbaz, and Siamak Namazi have been held in Iranian custody for more than five years. The names of the remaining two US nationals who are now heading home have not been publicly released by the US government due to privacy considerations. The release of the five Americans is part of a multi-pronged agreement negotiated with the aid of Qatari officials, under which the US is also freeing several Iranian nationals who have been in custody on charges relating to sanctions violations. The US has also agreed to allow South Korean officials to transfer $6bn in Iranian-owned funds that have been frozen in that countrys banks to restricted accounts in Qatar by way of Swiss financial institutions. The funds have reportedly come from petroleum sales made during the Trump administration pursuant to a programme allowing Iran to sell some oil with proceeds going to humanitarian relief purposes. American officials have said the funds, which have been transferred to Qatar, will be used only for humanitarian purchases under monitoring by the US Treasury Department. The prisoner swap agreement came after more than half a year of talks between American and Iranian officials in Doha, with Iran taking a visible first step to implementing the deal last month by moving four of the five wrongfully detained Americans to house arrest. One of the former detainees, Siamak Namazi, made an emotional plea to President Joe Biden in a March interview with CNN. At the time, Mr Namazi told Mr Biden to liberty of innocent Americans above politics by working to secure the release of him and other wrongfully detained US nationals, even if doing so would draw ire from Republicans who generally criticise any talks with the Iranian government. The US and Iran have not had diplomatic relations since 7 April 1980, following the November 1979 takeover of the US Embassy in Tehran by Iranian militants who held 52 US diplomats working there as hostages for 444 days. During the Obama administration, the US helped broker a deal for Iran to suspend much of its nuclear weapons programme in exchange for limited sanctions relief, but then-president Donald Trump withdrew the US from that agreement under pressure from Republicans in Congress. Mr Kirby, the White House spokesperson, said the prisoner swap agreement did not represent any thawing of relations between Tehran and Washington, and was not linked to any other diplomatic goal other than the return of the five Americans who are now heading home. In this case, our focus was squarely on these Americans and those families that are waiting for them, he said. Five U.S. citizens detained by Iran were freed Monday in a high-stakes, complex diplomatic deal brokered between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Biden administration that included the transfer of $6 billion in unfrozen Iranian oil assets and the release of five Iranians facing charges in the U.S. A plane carrying the Americans touched down in Fort Belvoir, Virginia, just south of Washington D.C., on Tuesday morning. The American prisoners include Siamak Namazi, Emad Shargi and Morad Tahbaz, who had all been sentenced to 10 years in prison on unsubstantiated charges of spying. Two Americans involved in the agreement including one female former U.N. worker wished to remain anonymous, according to U.S. officials. Family members embrace freed Americans Siamak Namazi, Morad Tahbaz and Emad Shargi, who were released in a prisoner swap deal between U.S and Iran, as they arrive at Davison Army Airfield at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, U.S., September 19, 2023. / Credit: JONATHAN ERNST/REUTERS A flight carrying the U.S. citizens from Tehran landed in Doha, Qatar, shortly before 11 a.m. ET on Monday. They were transferred to U.S. custody and then boarded the plane bound for the Washington, D.C. area. They were accompanied on the plane by U.S. Special Presidential Envoy Roger Carstens and Deputy Special Envoy for Iran Abram Paley, who met the former detainees in Doha. Each of the freed Americans was met by groups of friends and family carrying small U.S. flags on the tarmac at Fort Belvoir. Smiles, kisses and warm embraces as they were reunited helped to stave off the chilly morning air. After 15 minutes, the group moved inside where the celebration continued. Carstens made brief remarks welcoming everyone home and encouraged them to keep the fight up for others still imprisoned in Iran. From left, Emad Sharghi, Morad Tahbaz and Siamak Namazi, former prisoners in Iran, walk out of a Qatar Airways flight that brought them out of Tehran and to Doha, Qatar, Sept. 18, 2023. / Credit: Lujain Jo/AP President Biden and national security adviser Jake Sullivan spoke with the detainees' families in a brief call after their arrival in Doha, according to Shargi's family. The White House described it as an "emotional call." Sources familiar with the planning said the Americans were expected to be given U.S. government cellphones to call their families to share the news of their freedom before their arrival. Namazi, a 51-year-old businessman, was the longest-held detainee, having been arrested in 2015 and left behind by both the Obama and Trump administrations in past prisoner swaps. Shargi, a businessman and Washington, D.C., resident, and Tahbaz, a U.K.-U.S. national and environmentalist, were both detained in 2018. An undated photo shows Emad Shargi. / Credit: Provided by the Shargi family Also on the flight were Namazi's mother, Effie Namazi, and Tahbaz's wife, Vida Tahbaz both of whom had previously been unable to leave Iran, according to senior administration officials. Shargi's sister said his family received video calls from him upon his arrival in Doha, in which he was "beaming and incredibly grateful." Jared Genser, the Namazi family's pro bono counsel, told CBS News the family was flooded with emotions. "While the Namazis' long and unimaginable nightmare has come to an end, it is also the beginning of a very long road to recovery and healing," Genser said in an emailed statement. Upon returning to the U.S., the Americans will be given the option of going through a support process at a military hospital at Fort Belvoir, Virginia to prepare for their re-entry following captivity. Because the U.S. has not had official ties with Iran since 1979, the Americans were escorted to the Qatari plane by the Swiss ambassador to Tehran, Nadine Olivier. She has helped monitor the Americans' well-being since they were moved from Evin prison to house arrest in August following the Biden administration's agreement in principle to the swap. Ahead of the swap, senior administration officials did not share details about the health conditions of the Americans, but noted the Swiss have said the Iranians complied with the agreed-upon living conditions for their house arrest. Olivier acted as the Biden administration's eyes and ears on the ground, confirming to State Department officials that the Americans were on board the flight. Five Americans were released by Iran in a prison swap on Sept. 18, 2023. / Credit: CBS News Switzerland and Qatar have acted as go-betweens for the U.S. and Iran since the minimal diplomatic contact between the two nations established as part of the 2015 landmark nuclear accord known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action was severed when the Trump administration exited the agreement in 2018. Despite a campaign pledge to revive the accord, the Biden administration's attempts have failed. Iran's nuclear development has continued. Distrust between Washington and Tehran, even amid the swap, is high. The Biden administration agreed to help Iran gain access to $6 billion in Iranian oil assets that had been held in a restricted account in South Korea as incentive for Tehran to conduct the swap. Sources familiar with the complex diplomatic deal told CBS News that the billions in oil revenue were being transferred through European banks in the form of euros to a restricted account in Qatar as late as Sunday. "We hope to see the complete repossession of assets by the Islamic Republic of Iran today and that it will all be transferred to Iran's account in a friendly country in the region," Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani announced on Monday. "The government of Iran should have complete access to it, to use according to its need." The plan was to have the U.S. Treasury block Tehran from accessing the funds until the Americans departed Iranian airspace. The Biden administration has repeatedly said the U.S. Treasury will continue to monitor the account in Qatar and restrict the use of funds for solely humanitarian purposes. A Qatari jet carrying five U.S. citizens who were held in Iran lands at the Doha International Airport in Doha, Qatar, on Sept. 18, 2023. / Credit: KARIM JAAFAR/AFP via Getty Images The Biden administration briefed Congress in advance of the trade, but Senate Intelligence Committee chairman Mark Warner, Democrat of Virginia, indicated the information offered to his staff was not sufficient for him to defend the administration's deal. "Obviously, money is fungible," Warner told "Face the Nation." "The administration have said there are guardrails. I want to get a better description of those guardrails first." The Republican chair of the House Intelligence Committee, Rep. Mike Turner of Ohio, is concerned that any financial relief will incentivize future hostage taking. "Whenever you put a price on American heads, you get an incentive for people to take more hostages," Turner told "Face the Nation." He dismissed the Biden administration's argument that the funds would be restricted. Senior administration officials reiterated Sunday night that the funds are "severely restricted" and are being funneled through "trusted" banks with the "full cooperation" of the Qatari government. "This is not a payment of any kind," a senior administration official said Sunday night. The money, which was paid by South Korea to Iran years ago for oil and subsequently frozen, is only to be used for humanitarian purposes and is limited to food, medicine, medical devices and agricultural products, a senior administration official said. They stressed that it is not U.S. taxpayer money and no funds will go directly to Iranian companies or entities. If Iran tries to divert the money, the U.S. will take action to "lock up" the funds, the official said. In addition to those billions, Mr. Biden agreed to grant clemency to five Iranians who were facing charges in the U.S. Iran identified its citizens as Mehrdad Meoin Ansari, indicted in 2011 and convicted in 2021 for violating economic sanctions with Iran; Michigan resident Amin Hasanzadeh, accused of stealing confidential documents from his employer; Kambiz Attar-Kashani, a dual U.S. and Iranian citizen who was convicted of conspiring to illegally export goods and technology to Iran; Canadian resident Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani, who is accused of illegally exporting laboratory equipment through Canada and the United Arab Emirates; and Kaveh Lotfolah Afrasiabi, a scholar and a U.S. permanent resident living in Massachusetts who was charged with acting as an unregistered agent of the Iranian government. The U.S. has not confirmed the identities of the Iranians being released, but administration officials noted they were all accused of non-violent crimes. Officials also said the prison sentences of the two Iranians who had been convicted were almost over. Afrasiabi told CBS News that he would not return to Tehran, but would instead remain in the U.S. Administration officials said they anticipate two of the Iranians who don't have legal status in the U.S. will return to Iran through Doha. A senior administration official said the deal "does not change our relationship with Iran in any way. Iran is an adversary and a state sponsor of terrorism. We will hold them accountable wherever possible." The Biden administration announced new sanctions Monday against Iran's Ministry of Intelligence and former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. But the swap ends a prolonged trauma for the families of the formerly detained Americans. It is also likely to reignite the political debate over whether the previously announced trade benefits the heavily sanctioned Iranian regime, and, in turn, incentivizes further hostage-taking. A senior administration official said Sunday night, "We obviously are not at all confident the practice [of taking hostages] will end," and warned Americans that traveling to Iran is "an extremely high-risk endeavor." In a statement thanking those who worked to secure his freedom, Namazi also urged the Biden administration to work with world leaders to impose consequences that would deter future hostage-taking. "Mr. President, the tale of my eight-year captivity is ultimately a stark reminder that once our citizens are seized by a rogue state, we are left with no good options," Namazi said. "It is only if the free world finally agrees to collectively impose draconian consequences on those who use human lives as mere bargaining chips, that the Iranian regime and its ilk will be compelled to make different choices." Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi is scheduled to arrive in New York this week to address the U.N. General Assembly, which Mr. Biden is also scheduled to attend. Olivia Gazis, Kristin Brown, Bo Erickson and Caitlin Yilek contributed to this report. Exclusive discounts from CBS Mornings Deals Kindness 101: A lesson in joy Oprah talks new book club pick, "Wellness: A novel," with author Nathan Hill (Bloomberg) -- Iran said it will exchange prisoners with the US on Monday, as part of deal Washington hopes will ease tension in the Middle East and could eventually lead to a resumption of talks to reverse Tehrans nuclear work. Most Read from Bloomberg The countries will each release five prisoners, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kanaani said in a press conference. Two of the Iranians to be freed will return to Iran, while the others will join family elsewhere or stay in the US, he said. Irans central bank governor also said 5.57 billion euros ($5.94 billion) of oil funds that the US had previously frozen had been transferred from South Korea to Qatari banks. Among those expected to be freed is Siamak Namazi, who has been held in Irans Evin Prison in Tehran since 2015. The moves follow months of mostly secret diplomacy between Tehran and Washington, the talks conducted via interlocutors such as Oman and Qatar. Under their agreement, the US has allowed Iran to access $6 billion of oil money frozen in South Korean banks due to sanctions. While US officials say there are no other negotiations underway, Washington hopes to clear the way for broader diplomacy aimed at imposing restrictions on Irans nuclear ambitions. The US and allies including Israel worry Iran intends to build a nuclear weapon, which could trigger an arms race in the region. Tehran has always said its atomic program is purely for peaceful purposes. Tracking the Twists and Turns of the US-Iran Conflict: QuickTake Talks on Irans atomic work are possible via intermediaries on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York this week, the Iranian foreign ministry spokesman said. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi is traveling to the US for the event. Irans oil exports have soared amid the latest diplomatic push, with most shipments headed to China. Some US officials have privately acknowledged theyve gradually relaxed enforcement of energy sanctions on Tehran. --With assistance from Abeer Abu Omar. (Updates throughout.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. A spokesperson for Irans foreign ministry confirmed a prisoner swap with the United States will take place Monday. Nasser Kanaani said during a news conference broadcast on state television that $6 billion in unfrozen Iranian assets, which had been a key condition to allow the prisoner swap, had been transferred successfully from South Korea to Qatar. We witnessed freezing of parts Iranian assets in some countries including South Korea, Kanaani said. As part of our policy of active foreign diplomacy, fortunately Irans frozen assets in South Korea were released, and God willing, today, the assets will start to be fully controlled by the government and the nation. Kanaani noted the prisoner swap would take place Monday, and the five American detainees in Iran would be released to Americans based on their will. On the subject of the prisoner swap, it will happen today and five prisoners, citizens of the Islamic Republic, will be released from the prisons in the U.S., Kanaani added. Five imprisoned citizens who were in Iran will be given to the U.S. side reciprocally, based on their will. We expect these two issues [to] fully take place based on the agreement. Tracking data analyzed by The Associated Press indicated a Qatar Airways Airbus A320 landed Monday morning at the airport where previous prisoner releases have taken place. A separate airport is used primarily for commercial flights. Reuters, meanwhile, reported a Qatari airplane was waiting in Iran on Monday to fly out the five U.S. detainees, who had been moved to house arrest as a way to signal good-faith intentions. A Qatari aircraft is on standby in Iran waiting to fly five soon-to-be released U.S. citizens and two relatives to Doha on Monday morning, a source briefed on the matter told the news agency. U.S. officials have identified three of the four U.S. prisoners set to be included in the swap Siamak Namazi, Emad Sharghi, Morad Tahbaz but so far have declined to name the fourth and fifth. The Associated Press contributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Prolonged concern about Ramzan Kadyrov 's health highlights Russian dictator Vladimir Putin 's dependency on Kadyrov for continued stability in Chechnya, the Institute for the Study of War stated in their daily report on Sept. 17. The Ukrainian Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR) reportedly confirmed that Kadyrov was in a coma on Sept. 15, sparking rumors about serious health concerns. However, Kadyrov denied rumors about his health in a video posted on Sept. 17. The ISW stated that destabilization of Kadyrov's rule in Chechnya would be a major blow to Putin's regime partly because of "how central the establishment of stability in Chechnya through a brutal and bloody war was to Putins early popularity in Russia." Russian officials, including Kadyrov, may be concerned that continued rumors about his health will affect the long-term stability of his control of Chechnya. Additionally, the ISW highlighted Ukraine's liberation of Klishchiivka, south of Bakhmut. ISW analysts noted that Ukrainian control of Klishchiivka is a tactical gain of strategic significance because it allows Ukrainian forces to fix a considerable portion of Russian airborne (VDV) elements in the Bakhmut area. According to Ukrainian military spokesperson Illia Yevlash, Russian forces will lose control over the southern flank of Bakhmut as a result of the Klishchiivka liberation, allowing the Ukrainian military to advance deeper and conduct more accurate and deeper strikes, using various artillery systems, drones, and available weapons. Currently, the main task ahead of Ukrainian forces, he said, is to take control of the logistical routes, especially railway, by which the Russians deliver the necessary ammunition to the occupied city of Bakhmut. Klishchiivka, which had a population of around 500 before the full-scale invasion and located just five kilometers south of Russian-occupied Bakhmut, was occupied in January by Russian forces. The successful recapture of the village was first announced on Facebook on Sept.17 by the Liut ("Anger") Brigade, formed by the Ukrainian police and under command of the National Guard. Read also: Military: Liberation of Klishchiivka creates foundation for further offensives Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. By Angelo Amante ROME (Reuters) - The Italian government, struggling with a surge in migrant arrivals, will pass measures on Monday to lengthen the time migrants can be held and to ensure more people who have no right to stay are repatriated, officials said. The move comes after almost 10,000 migrants reached the southern Italian island of Lampedusa last week, dealing a blow to the credibility of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni , who won office last year vowing to curb illegal immigration. In an bid to regain the initiative, the cabinet was set to lengthen the time migrants awaiting repatriation can be detained to up to 18 months from three at present, officials said. Ministers will also approve the creation of more detention centres in isolated areas. Under Italian law, migrants facing repatriation can be held if they cannot be immediately expelled. More than 127,000 migrants have arrived in Italy so far this year, according to government data, almost double the figure for the same period of 2022. Officials say a majority of migrants head to Italy for economic reasons and are therefore not eligible for asylum. However, Rome only has repatriation agreements with some of the countries whose migrants come ashore in Italy, and even when there is a bilateral deal is in place, it can take months to send people home. Highlighting the difficulties, data produced by the OpenPolis think-tank shows that only 20% of those targeted by a repatriation order left the country between 2014 and 2020. Past efforts to hold migrants have also largely failed, with those detained repeatedly breaking out of centres and often heading straight to wealthier northern European countries. The Italian parliament in April approved measures to create new migrant centres for people waiting to hear the outcome of asylum applications as well as more detention facilities for those facing expulsion. As part of the package, it set aside around 20 million euros ($21.32 million) over two years. Meloni, who put tackling illegal immigration at the forefront of her successful election campaign last year, visited Lampedusa on Sunday with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and asked Brussels to do more to help. Von der Leyen promised a 10-point EU action plan to relieve the pressure, but the measures appeared similar to previous initiatives that have failed to make much impact. ($1 = 0.9379 euros) (Reporting by Angelo Amante; Editing by Crispian Balmer and Christina Fincher) A photo of Jaahnavi Kandula is displayed with flowers, Sunday, Jan. 29, 2023 in Seattle, at the intersection where she was killed by a Seattle Police officer driving north while responding to a nearby medical incident. A city watchdog agency is investigating after a body-worn camera captured one Seattle Police Department union leader joking with another following the death of a Kandula, who was struck and killed by a police cruiser as she was crossing a street. (Ken Lambert/The Seattle Times via AP) (AP Third Party) Canadians are reacting to the death of Jaahnavi Kandula after a Seattle police officers body cam revealed the cop laughed and made inappropriate comments about the 23-year-old student who was killed after being hit by another officers patrol car. The incident happened on Jan. 23 but police released the footage last Monday as the citys police watchdog, the Office of Police Accountability (OPA), investigate. In the video, officer Daniel Auderer, who is also the vice president of the citys police union, can be heard confirming Kandulas death, laughing and saying, Yeah, just write a check $11,000. She had limited value. According to The Seattle Times, Kevin Dave, the officer who struck and killed Kandula was responding to a call about an overdose. He was driving about 120 km/h when he collided with Kandula, whose body flung over 100 feet (30 metres). As a drug-recognition officer, Auderer was called to the scene to determine if Dave was under the influence when he crashed into Kandula. It was on a phone call with Mike Solan, the president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild (SPOG), that Auderer can be heard making the controversial comments that some Canadians call disgusting. Who laughs and makes sick jokes after killing someone? wrote one Twitter user. Disgusted beyond words No regard for human life. Who laughs and makes sick jokes after killing someone #JaahnaviKandula #JusticeforJaahnaviKandula #seattlepolice https://t.co/vMxJmQhy6a W.H (@waj_huss) September 15, 2023 Daniel Auderer is a despicable human. He is not fit to for the @SeattlePD. Or maybe he is. Maybe he absolutely reflects their values. #JaahnaviKandula Deborah Reid (@dreid63) September 14, 2023 What happened to #JaahnaviKandula is brutal, inhumane, pathetic. And @SeattlePD should be ashamed. Demand to know what actions are being taken to those viruses who are in the police force. #JusticeForjaahnavi #seattlepolice Atanu Banerjee (@atanu4ever) September 14, 2023 Kandula was expecting to graduate in December with a masters degree in information systems from the Seattle campus of Northeastern University. She came to Seattle from Andhra Pradesh, a state in Indias southern coastal region. Relatives told The Seattle Times that Kandula was in the U.S. so she could one day support her mother back home in India. In Canada, the news of Kandulas death has shaken South Asian communities, including the South Asian Womens Centre (SAWC) in Toronto. In an email to Yahoo News Canada, Kripa Sekhar, SAWCs executive director wrote, Jaahnavi Kandulas death by a policeman is a tragedy, particularly because a cop who is supposed to protect people, we believe has become a perpetrator of the crime. His disdain for Jaahnavi indicates that the lives of racialized women is dispensable. Our deepest sympathies are with the mother of this international student from India. She died in a strange country with no family support. We feel there must be very deep systemic changes to law enforcement that includes behavioural change, attitude and discipline. Its a sentiment that even influencers and some celebrities are echoing. Online, comedian and television host Lilly Singh asked her social media followers to educate themselves about Kandulas story. Singh explains that the story hits close to home as someone who has witnessed just how hard Indian women work and study in their homeland and even abroad just to make ends meet. India has the biggest population in the world. Indian women make up a big population of the world. If we continue to ignore Indian women, we are screwed and at a loss because of this. Too often, South Asian women are dismissed. Whether its tragic situations like this or smaller situations. As the news circulates, people across the world are expressing their outrage and are demanding justice for Kandula. The hashtags #JusticeforJaahnaviKandula and #IndianLivesMatter are currently making their rounds on social media. The hurt and the pain in the Desi community over the last few days is deep as it is wide across the globe. Jaahnavi Kandula represents the best of all of us. She moved across the world, without her family, making sacrifices to pursue higher education and achieve a better life. pic.twitter.com/bR2TCGM2BX Taral V. Patel (@TaralVPatel) September 15, 2023 Since Monday, thousands of people around the globe have signed Change.org and Move On petitions addressed to Seattle and Washington elected officials, Washington Governor Jay Inslee, President Joe Biden, White House administration, as well as the Seattle Police Department. The Indian community in the entire country and world demand justice for Jaahnavi Kandula, and is asking for the officers to be held accountable. Not only was she mowed down like nothing, but the conversation of the officers after the event are utterly disgraceful and a shame to humanity. We demand that those officers be discharged from their duties, with no pension, and this incident be treated as manslaughter, and prosecuted, reads the petitions. Jaahnavi Kandula is a daughter, a sister, a cousin, a friend and a human being, in addition to being Indian. Unlike what the officer said, Jaahnavi had VALUE, and an UNLIMITED VALUE. Let us stand and raise a voice against such abhorrent thinking, that Brown people have limited value. Despite the professional, social, and financial role played by Indians in the United States, we have not been able to escape racism and inequality many times, and our entire community has still quietly moved on, the petition page continues. Since the news broke, Auderer has not made public comments about the incident. The Seattle Police Department said it would not comment until the OPA concludes its investigation. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy's announcement last week that the chamber will open a formal impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden will likely increase the profile of one Kentucky congressman: U.S. Rep. James Comer. Comer, R-1st District, is the chairman of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee, and he has been digging into the business dealings of Hunter Biden , the president's son, for months. Now the Oversight Committee as well as the Judiciary and Ways and Means committees will lead the inquiry, putting Reps. Comer, Jim Jordan of Ohio and Jason Smith of Missouri at the forefront. The three put out a statement Sept. 12 agreeing with McCarthy's decision and promising their committees "will continue to work to follow the facts to ensure President Biden is held accountable for abusing public office for his familys financial gain." The investigation comes as McCarthy is scrambling to win conservative votes to fund government operations beyond Sept. 30 and avoid a government shutdown. Biden has suggested Republicans are trying to impeach him because they want to shut down the government. But Comer has been looking into the Biden family finances since becoming head of the Oversight Committee in January after Republicans took control of the House. Here's what to know about the Kentuckian: James Comer was seen as a centrist in Kentucky Comer, 51, was in his late 20s when he started his career as a public official. He was elected to the Kentucky House of Representatives in 2000 and spent over a decade in the chamber. Then voters made him Kentucky's Agriculture commissioner. In November 2016, he was elected to represent the U.S. House of Representatives. He was seen as a centrist in Kentucky state government. For example, he worked across the aisle on hemp legislation as Agriculture commissioner. Some colleagues told NBC News they saw a change after he got the chairmanship in the U.S. House. Comer, who is often on Fox News, is quoted in that same article as saying he is willing to work across the aisle, including with progressive U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Comer has called himself a "cornfed country boy from Monroe County. Coincidentally, that quote is from an op-ed piece that appeared in The Courier Journal in May 2022 and prophesied that investigating Biden would make Comer "a star." James Comer was accused of abuse while running for Kentucky governor Before he ever went to Washington, Comer dreamed of being Kentucky's governor. In 2015, he made a bid for that office while he was Agriculture commissioner. Shortly before the Republican primary election, a woman who dated him in college in the early 1990s told The Courier Journal he had been physically and mentally abusive and took her to have an abortion. Comer denied the allegations. He lost the primary by 83 votes to Matt Bevin, who went on to become governor. Bevin lost his 2019 reelection bid to Democrat Andy Beshear. Months after losing that 2015 primary, Comer announced he would run for Congress after longtime Rep. Ed Whitfield, dogged by ethics questions, announced he would step down in the heavily Republican district in Western Kentucky. Comer called Whitfields decision a blessing. Is James Comer a supporter of Donald Trump ? The Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection was a key investigative focus in the Democrat-run House, but Comer dismissed the bipartisan committee that dug into that attack on the Capitol as illegitimate. The insurrection failed to overturn President Joe Biden's 2020 victory, and it was fueled by lies that the election was stolen from Donald Trump. Right after Jan. 6, Comer proposed a national commission to investigate the attack but later voted against an alternative, bipartisan plan for such a commission. He also opposed the Jan. 6 committee House Speaker Nancy Pelosi proposed after Senate Republicans blocked the commission idea. That committee ultimately was established and held public hearings before going kaput with the GOP House takeover. However, Comer voted against overturning the 2020 election results and condemned the Jan. 6 attack. He argued Democrats were politicizing it. Last November before the twice-impeached former president faced criminal charges in four separate cases Comer told Spectrum News that Trump was a "viable" 2024 presidential candidate. While Comer noted Trump has a lot of support in his congressional district, he said there would be other strong candidates. He added, "Im gonna wait the process out." USA Today contributed to this story. Politics editor Nick Hollkamp can be reached at nhollkamp@courier-journal.com. This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Biden impeachment inquiry: Who is Rep. James Comer of Kentucky A lawyer for Jeffrey Clark , a former assistant attorney general who was indicted with Donald Trump in Georgia on election racketeering charges, argued Monday that the case against him should be moved from state to federal court. U.S. District Judge Steve Jones has already rejected a similar request from Mark Meadows, Trumps former White House chief of staff. Meadows has appealed the decision. The case is significant because it will help define when federal officials are protected from state prosecution for carrying out their official duties. At least five of Trumps co-defendants have asked to move their cases and Trump said he might make the request, too. Clark's lawyer, Harry MacDougald, argued his actions were part of his official duties. Disputes about the letter filled with false statements about the 2020 election, which Clark is charged with writing, amounts to a disagreement between lawyers. What Im saying is, lawyers can disagree about that without being put in prison, MacDougald said Monday. Clark didn't attend the hearing. Jones set no deadline for ruling in the case. He took about 10 days to decide Meadows' case. Jeffrey Clark, a former assistant attorney general for environmental issues at the Justice Department, asked a federal judge to move the trial for his Georgia election racketeering charges from Fulton County Superior Court to federal court. Clark, Trump and Meadows were charged as part of a 41-count indictment in Fulton County Superior Court alleging they were trying to overturn the results of the 2020 election. All 19 co-defendants have pleaded not guilty. Clark, who headed the environment and natural resources division at the Justice Department, was charged for drafting a letter that was never sent with false statements about Georgias election. Clark drafted the letter on Dec. 28, 2020, for Acting Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen to sign and send to Gov. Brian Kemp and legislative leaders. The letter falsely said the department identified significant concerns that may have impacted the outcome of the election in multiple States, including the State of Georgia, according to the indictment. But the department hadnt found widespread fraud in the election. Rosen refused to sign the letter. Richard Donoghue, the acting deputy attorney general, told him the letter amounted to nothing less than the Department meddling in the outcome of a presidential election.'" Eric Herschmann, a former White House lawyer, told House investigators he was incredulous when he heard Clarks strategy, calling it asinine. Trump briefly considered naming Clark attorney general but didnt act after top department and White House lawyers threatened to resign. Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis speaks during a news conference on Aug. 14, 2023, in Atlanta. Clark argued in trying to move his trial that drafting the letter was part of his official duties, at Trump's request. Clark filed an affidavit Friday saying he was named to acting head the department's civil division on Sept. 1, 2020, and carried out litigation duties without participating in Trump's campaign. It is not a good-faith prosecution; it is a political hit job stretched out across 98 pages to convey the false impression that it has heft and gravity," MacDougald wrote. But Jones said he wouldn't consider Clark's statement because prosecutors weren't able to cross-examine him. One of the prosecutors, Donald Wakeford, argued that Clark had presented no evidence that his actions were authorized by Trump. Clark also provided no explanation of what federal law he was trying to enforce or what authority or appropriate expertise he had to be looking into allegations of problems with the election, Wakeford said. This case does not involve federal authority, Wakeford said, arguing for the case to be returned to the state court. There is no federal authority here to protect. Jeffrey Clark, then-assistant attorney general for the environment and natural resources division, speaks during a news conference at the Justice Department in Washington, on Sept. 14, 2020. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Jeffrey Clark asks to move Georgia charges with Trump to federal court Christine Serrano Glassner, a New Jersey mayor who has political ties to former President Donald Trump , on Monday announced her campaign for the Republican 2024 U.S. Senate nomination. Serrano Glassner, the mayor of Mendham Borough in Morris County, hopes to challenge 18-year incumbent Democrat Bob Menendez , whos facing his third federal investigation since entering the Senate in 2006. Senator Menendez has been in politics his entire life. Hes under investigation yet again, Glassner says in a campaign kickoff video. New Jersey deserves someone with integrity, someone who will work hard to tackle the tough problems that are facing all of us. Someone who will put us first. Someone who cares more about our families our New Jersey families than his cronies. Republicans havent won a U.S. Senate election in New Jersey since 1972, though some state Democrats are nervous that the latest federal investigation, which involves probing how an Edgewater-based company got an exclusive government contract in Egypt to certify Halal meat, will endanger Menendezs reelection prospects. Menendez has said he intends to seek reelection, and most state Democrats appear to be backing him. That could change if he faces charges. But Serrano Glassners ties to Trump could also be a political vulnerability in New Jersey, where Trump backlash helped Menendez coast to an 11-point victory over Republican Bob Hugin in 2018, even though Menendez had just survived a corruption trial after the jury deadlocked. Serrano Glassner is a principal and co-founder of C&M Transcontinental, a public affairs firm. Her husband, Michael Glassner , is the firms president. Michael Glassner served as chief operating officer and deputy campaign manager for Trump from July 2015 until November 2020. He is currently leading a Trump legal defense fund, according to reports. Menendez adviser Michael Soliman seized on the Trump ties in a statement. "Heres the thing that New Jerseys voters will quickly learn the mayor is a hardcore, unapologetic Trump supporter," Soliman said. "Even after Trump pushed an insurrection, even after he bragged about helping to end Roe v. Wade and even after he cozies up to Vladimir Putin, mayor Serrano Glassner is all in on Trump. She is clearly out of touch with New Jerseyans. Bob Menendez knows New Jersey his record of achievement and advocacy for our state is simply unmatched." Serrano Glassner was elected to the Mendham Borough council in 2016 and mayor in 2018. Mendham Borough, which has a population of about 5,000, is bordered on three sides by Mendham Township, which is home to former governor and 2024 Republican presidential candidate Chris Christie. As a fighter for New Jersey residents and businesses throughout my career in federal and state government and based on my experience as a mom and a mayor, I am ready to go to work, Serrano Glassner said in a statement. We need a leader to fight for the hardworking men and women of New Jersey and for America. I am that leader, and I will defeat Bob Menendez and end his career of cronyism. Serrano Glassner is the first Republican elected official to declare her candidacy against Menendez. Three others Shirley Maia-Cusick, an immigration attorney; Gregg Mele, who ran for governor as a libertarian in 2021; and educator Dan Cruz, a former member of the Andover Regional Board of Education have filed campaign paperwork with the Federal Election Commission. Menendez so far faces just one challenger in the Democratic primary: Kyle Jasey, a Jersey City real estate lender and son of outgoing Assemblymember Mila Jasey (D-Essex). A version of this story appears in CNNs What Matters newsletter. To get it in your inbox, sign up for free here. The military temporarily losing a fighter jet near Charleston, South Carolina, and asking the public to help find it is a plotline in which Top Gun (fighter jets) meets The Hunt for Red October (country cant find its weapons system). But the larger story of the F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter is like tax dollars meet The Blob (unstoppable force consumes everything in its path). How in the heck? How in the hell do you lose an F-35? wondered Rep. Nancy Mace, the South Carolina Republican, in a post on social media Sunday that speaks for everyone who read the headline about the state-of-the-art military plane that went missing earlier in the day after its pilot ejected and parachuted to safety. The debris field of the plane was located approximately two hours northeast of Joint Base Charleston, the Marine Corps and a defense official with knowledge of the search told CNN Monday evening. How is there not a tracking device and were asking the public to what, find a jet and turn it in? she continued. A more general and important question could be asked of the F-35 program writ large: How in the heck can you spend so much money on a plane that doesnt work the way its supposed to? The most expensive US defense project ever The exact amount of money for a single aircraft like the one that went missing is somewhere around $100 million. The entire F-35 program is on track to cost $1.7 trillion over the lifetime of the plane. Trillion. With a t. Ahead of the discovery of its remains, CNNs Oren Liebermann reported the facts of what was known about the missing aircraft on CNN on Monday: The pilot ejected safely and was taken to a hospital. Joint Base Charleston posted a social media plea for information from anyone who might have seen the jet or its remains. The search is focused northwest of Charleston near Lakes Marion and Moultrie. But were left with so many questions, he told CNNs Jim Sciutto. Was the transponder working? If not, why wasnt it working? Why, maybe, had it been switched off? What was the mission it was on? All of this is either under investigation or a question we havent gotten an answer to yet. In the meantime, Liebermann reported Monday evening that the Marine Corps has ordered a two-day pause in flight operations, during which all the aviation units within the service will review safe flight operations, ground safety, maintenance and flight procedures, and maintaining combat readiness. The F-35 incident marks the third plane crash for the service in six weeks. When I asked Liebermann by email how to generally explain the F-35 program, he noted it is the most expensive weapons program in US history. For a country that spends a good portion of its income on its military and is known to have the most advanced fighting force on Earth, thats saying something. The F-35 is whats known as a stealth fighter, which means it is supposed to be able to avoid detection by enemies. Maybe a little too stealth. But if you watch the glossy Lockheed Martin video at F35.com, the jet is also supposed to be able to communicate with rest of the military, sharing its operational picture with the ground, sea and air assets. The video shows the jet beaming information to the ground and satellites. The New York Times editorial board used the word boondoggle to describe the F-35 program in 2021. But it added that the US is essentially stuck with the program. Or as CNNs Zachary Cohen wrote back in 2015, Is the worlds most expensive weapons program worth it? Eight years later, the question still applies. Many US allies Canada, Germany, Japan and others also buy F-35s from Lockheed. One jet to do many different things The F-35, as developed by Lockheed at the request of the US military, was supposed to be the jack-of-all-jets, with versions to do different jobs for the Air Force, the Navy and the Marines. The version that went missing over South Carolina the F-35B is used by the US Marine Corps and meant to be able to land vertically like a helicopter and take-off in very short distances, according to a fact sheet from Lockheed. Another F-35B crashed in 2018, also in South Carolina. The Project on Government Oversight, a nonpartisan watchdog group, has written extensively on the F-35 and its cost overruns. I asked Dan Grazier, an F-35 expert for POGO, what has gone wrong. Failure at the conceptual level It all boils down to failure at the conceptual level, he told me in an email. The architects of the program attempted to build a single aircraft to meet multiple mission requirements for not just three separate services but also those of multiple countries, Grazier said, noting the difference between a small and nimble fighter jet and a long-range jet. When someone attempts to design a single aircraft to perform all of these roles, they have to make numerous design tradeoffs that generally results in an aircraft that can sort of do it all, but doesnt do anything particularly well. The jet has never reached its full operational capability and already needs updates and tweaks, including a new engine. Every F-35 built until now is nothing more than a very expensive prototype, Grazier told me. All of them will have to go through an expensive retrograde process in the future when the design is complete to bring them up to something approaching full combat standards. I asked a spokesperson for Lockheed Martin if the company is confident the jets perform as they should considering the taxpayer investment. They provided this statement: The global F-35 fleet has surpassed more than 721,000 cumulative flight hours and spans 17 nations and three U.S. military services. Since F-35s began flying 17 years ago, there has been one pilot fatality and less than 10 confirmed destroyed aircraft. More than 965 F-35s have been delivered and more than 430,000 sorties completed. Frequently grounded Diana Maurer is director of defense capabilities and management at the Government Accountability Office, the governments own watchdog that earlier this year described the F-35 program as more than a decade behind schedule and $183 billion over original cost estimates. She said pilots frequently report being impressed by the planes capabilities. But they also report not being able to fly it often enough. Problems getting spare parts, issues with repairs and a reliance on contractors all contribute to the F-35 having a substandard readiness and frequent groundings of the fleet. Theres a variety of reasons why they cant get these aircraft up in the air as often as they would like, Maurer said. And thats really frustrating from a taxpayer perspective for something that already costs hundreds of millions of dollars a year; cost many, many multiple billions already; and will cost nearly $2 trillion over the life cycle of the program. Grazier said officials at the Pentagon have acknowledged problems with the F-35 that can be applied to the design process in the future. But this is a program that evolved over successive presidencies and with a rotating cast of characters in charge both in Congress and at the Pentagon. The system is supposed to have safeguards against extreme cost overruns, but when those warnings were triggered in previous decades, the F-35 program was allowed to barrel forward. And here we are. This story has been updated with additional information. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Joby Aviation has selected Dayton, Ohio as the new site for its first scaled electric aircraft factory, with the company preparing to invest up to $500 million in the new site as it looks to start selling air taxi rides as soon as 2025. Todays announcement puts to rest months of speculation on the location for the site, which will reportedly provide up to 2,000 jobs. TechCrunch was the first to report that Ohio was on the companys short-list. According to todays announcement, state and local economic programs agreed to pony up upwards of $325 million in incentives and benefits to sweeten the deal. We plan to deliver up to 500 aircraft per year, JoeBen Bevirt said in a press conference earlier today. Thats a volume of aircraft that isnt typical in the aviation world outside of the very biggest players, and were glad to have our strategic partner and investor Toyota alongside us for this important journey. Toyota is Jobys largest external shareholder. Joby also has a partnership with Delta Air Lines for airline customers traveling to and from airports. Joby and Delta are looking to roll out the service in New York and Los Angeles first. The new site at Dayton International Airport will occupy 140 acres to mass produce eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) aircraft, a significant growth from Jobys current pilot production line in Marina, California. The company rolled its first aircraft off that production line earlier this year. Construction on the facility is expected to start next year, with aircraft production starting as early as 2025. That same year, Joby anticipates the Federal Aviation Administration greenlighting the company to start commercial operations. Jobys first aircraft will be able to fly four passengers and a pilot at speeds up to 200 miles per hour, for journeys up to 100 miles -- all powered by electricity, rather than jet fuel. The companys business model is similar to a taxi service, ferrying customers on shorter trips in dense urban areas or to airports. The company is reportedly looking to start hiring immediately. Joby set up a new website -- called JobyInOhio -- for people interested in learning more about working at the future production facility. A jogger in a South Park neighborhood was shot Sunday afternoon, according to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. It happened on Sharon Road, near Myers Park. Police reports say a man was jogging when another man came up to him, pulled a gun on him, and then shot him in the hand and leg. The jogger is expected to be OK, but police have revealed little else about a seemingly random shooting in the middle of the neighborhood. Police said Montgomery and the victim didnt know each other. Police identified the suspect as Stephen Montgomery and said he was a convicted felon who had a stolen gun. He fired multiple shots, including hitting a car that was driving by on Sharon Road. The violence is surprising in this quiet part of town; neighbors didnt want to speak on camera, but they told Channel 9s Genevieve Curtis that theyre alarmed by the crime. >>I can defend myself: Jogger tackles man on electric bike who allegedly attacked her CMPD says Montgomery is charged with assault with a deadly weapon, burglary, possession of a stolen gun, and trespassing. Hes also accused of fighting with officers at the scene of the shooting, and hes charged with assaulting an officer. Channel 9 is working on getting more information on this investigation. Check back for updates. (WATCH: Teens on e-scooter recovering after being struck by SUV in Myers Park) ASHEVILLE A tentative new trial date has been set in a Buncombe County Superior Court felony littering trial, after lost and late-submitted evidence required lawyers, defendants and a judge to start over. This comes after Superior Court Judge Jacqueline Grant signed an order Aug. 31, officially denying the defendants request for dismissal of charges or suppression of evidence from a cellphone that was destroyed while in the Asheville Police Departments evidence room. Defendants Amy Hamilton and Pageant Quinn Nevel were set to go to trial in April for felony littering charges dating back to a December 2021 protest in Ashton Park, before issues with discovery forced the district attorneys office to reschedule. Police charged 16 individuals for the demonstration, saying they dumped more than 2,000 pounds of litter and refuse while protesting a series of police sweeps of encampments that winter and calling for sanctuary camping for the city's homeless population. Hamilton and Nevel sought a dismissal of the case for the alleged failure to preserve exculpatory evidence in bad faith, according to the judges order obtained by the Citizen Times Sept. 12. As an alternative, the defendants sought an order to suppress the admission of evidence obtained from a seized cell phone. Amy Hamilton and Pageant Quinn Nevel talk with their attorneys in Buncombe County Superior Court on April 17, 2023. The cellphone belonged to Reece Jaksec who was charged by APD Jan. 2, 2022, with throwing a rock into City Hall and held entire encrypted Signal threads with felony littering defendants, flyers and other evidence. Senior Police Officer Sam DeGrave, who spearheaded the investigation while on temporary assignment at the Criminal Investigations Division following an injury, took charge of photographing the Signal messages as evidence after they failed to download from the phone due to the apps end-to-end encryption software, according to the court document. However, DeGrave claimed he did not realize it was possible to click read more to expand messages on the Signal App, according to the court document, resulting in some messages not being submitted as evidence. According to the court document, DeGrave did not realize until a March 2023 meeting with Assistant District Attorney Katie Kurdys that these messages had not been expanded and photographed. When Kurdys asked DeGrave to go back and photograph the unexpanded message threads, he discovered that the phones battery had expanded while in APDs evidence room and was no longer usable. No attempt has been made to send the cellphone to a third part vendor for possible repair, according to the order. On Aug. 31, Grant denied both defendants motions under the grounds that DeGraves failure to document all content from the phone was not done in bad faith and that this failure did not cause irreputable prejudice to the defendants preparation in the case. She found it to be purely speculative that the missing content contained exculpatory evidence, or evidence that could show the defendants innocence. More: Asheville mutual aid volunteers face 'absurd' felony littering charges, lawyer says ACLU federal lawsuit: NC ACLU: Asheville, police chief, parks director violated protester constitutional rights More: NC ACLU: Asheville, police chief, parks director violated protester constitutional rights In addition to the lost evidence, 188 images out of 257 from DeGraves work phone failed to upload to the digital evidence website used by APD. The officer realized this failure April 18 the day after jury selection had begun for the case and provided the images to Kurdys on a hard drive. A copy of these additional images was then provided to the defense council. Despite the discovery violation, Grant has decided that the courts decision to continue the trial in this case to a later date after the defendant has had an opportunity to review the additional images is sufficient and no other sanctions are warranted. District Attorney Todd Williams confirmed a tentative trial date has been set for Nov. 13, but he was unable to provide further comment on an ongoing case. Defense attorney Martin Moore told the Citizen Times Sept. 14 that this case will be on the motion and plea calendar in October so we can examine whether or not Habekah Cannon (Moores new co-counsel) has sufficient time to jump into a trial that has been going on for this long. That might be the best place where we address any sanctions or outstanding issues and any additional motions Habekah wants to add, as well as potential ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) comment on what they think, Moore said. The Citizen Times spoke with Cannon, who said she was placed on the case Sept. 11. I received a terabyte of data and theres still data to come that I have not even received from the state, Cannon said, saying she cannot provide further comment until she has time to review the material. My client was in an unfortunate situation where her former counsel had to leave her place of employment for another job opportunity. More: Family, friends remember Asheville teen murder victim on birthday; condemn gun violence 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: Asheville felony littering case dismissal denied new trial date set Attorney Joe Tacopina can continue representing former President Trump in his criminal hush money case, a New York state judge said, after finding Tacopina had no conflict of interest. Manhattan prosecutors this spring had raised questions about Tacopinas prior dealings with Stormy Daniels , the adult film star who was paid the hush money at the center of the case. New York Supreme Court acting Justice Juan Merchan, who is overseeing the case, in a new letter wrote that he saw no issue that requires Tacopinas disqualification. Having considered the arguments advanced by you as well as the prosecution, together with all documentation provided in support thereof, I accept your representations, as well as those of Mr. Ross, as officers of the Court, that there is no conflict, Merchan wrote, referring to a legal ethics expert who said Tacopina should be cleared. The letter was dated Sept. 1 but became public Monday. As Merchan weighed the potential conflict, Tacopina for months avoided signing his name to Trumps various court filings. Merchans letter said he would also revisit the issue with Trump in an excess of caution when the former president next appears in court virtually Feb. 15. Trump is charged in the case with 34 criminal counts of falsifying business records over his reimbursements to his then-fixer, Michael Cohen, who made the 2016 hush money payment. Trump pleaded not guilty. It marked the first time in U.S. history that a former president was indicted, and Trump has faced three additional indictments in the months since. At Trumps arraignment in April, Assistant District Attorney Chris Conroy noted a letter sent the day prior by Danielss attorney, Clark Brewster, raising questions about there being a potential conflict. The letter said Daniels had previously contacted Tacopinas law firm seeking consultation about the hush money arrangement. Tacopina has insisted he never represented Daniels and never actually met with her. Merchan in his letter accepted Tacopinas suggestion that he not cross-examine Daniels if she becomes a trial witness. Prosecutors indicated at Trumps arraignment they intended to call her to the stand. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Potential jurors for the trial to sentence a 15-year-old boy found guilty of capital murder in the death of a fellow Lamar High School student in Arlington were asked Monday about their past experience on juries, their biases and if they could, under any circumstances, seriously consider the maximum sentence of 40 years. Opening statements are scheduled to be presented Tuesday morning in Tarrant County Juvenile Court once jury selection is complete. The teen also was convicted of three counts of attempted capital murder. The 15-year-old pleaded true to capital murder and three counts of attempted capital murder, Tarrant County Juvenile Court Judge Alex Kim told the potential jurors. He has been adjudicated guilty. The jury will be asked to determine a disposition ranging from no time to 40 years. The Fort Worth Star-Telegram generally does not publish the names of juveniles who are accused of crimes, unless they are charged as adults. The charges stemmed from a March 20 shooting in which investigators said the 15-year-old suspect brought a shotgun to Lamar High School and fired into a crowd of students on the steps outside, killing 16-year-old JaShawn Poirier and wounding another student. A memorial was held at Lamar High School on April 28, 2023, honoring JaShawn Poirier. He was fatally shot outside of the school on March 20, 2023. Assistant Criminal District Attorney Lloyd Whelchel took a special interest in whether jurors could ever consider a sentence of 40 years, the maximum sentence under Texas law for a minor who is not tried as an adult. Most potential jurors asked the question said they would have to understand the circumstances first, but couldnt count out the maximum sentence. Others said they couldnt justify a 40-year sentence because of the age of the teen. Whelchel also asked those in the jury pool about their past experience serving on a jury and any biases they might have including those stemming from professions or personal experiences that would prevent them from being fair and impartial until both sides have made their cases. At least one potential juror told Whelchel they could not be fair or impartial because of past experiences, either their own or the experiences of their family or friends, with school shootings or lockdowns at schools. Defense attorney Lisa Herrick asked the jurors why they think minors commit crimes, getting answers including their upbringing to having too much time on their hands. She also asked members of the jury pool if and why they think the law should be different for minors than it is for adults, noting that a juvenile charged with capital murder cannot face more than 40 years in prison and cannot be sentenced to death. She also asked if they think their age should matter when it comes to the law. Most in the jury pool told Herrick they think it is fair for minors to be held to different standards than adults, some adding that minors havent had all the same opportunities for education or that their brains have not finished developing and they may not completely comprehend the consequences of their actions. Others said more minors should be charged as adults. Herrick also asked the jury pool about their familiarity with the juvenile justice system in Tarrant County and put an emphasis on questions about being unbiased and fair as a juror for the trial. She also questioned the jury on whether they could consider no time in jail or probation, as the minimum sentence for a juvenile convicted of capital murder. She questioned possible jurors on their views about rehabilitation of minors and what could be done to prevent children from committing crimes or repeating offenses, getting answers about more parental involvement, after-school programs and stricter gun control laws. Several of the people in the jury pool said that parental figures should be held responsible for the crimes of their children. Prior to the voir dire process, the 97 people who showed up for jury duty filled out questionnaires that included a question about whether theyve read or heard news about the case. Most of them said they had, leading to about an hour of individual questions about whether news coverage they had seen or heard would impact their ability to be fair. At least nine of the jurors told the court they could not be fair and impartial based on information theyd heard about the trial outside of court. In June, Judge Alex Kim denied a request from the prosecutors to try the accused shooter in adult criminal court. After he was taken into custody, the accused shooter told a juvenile services employee that he fired upon the victims when he saw a person who appeared to look like a boy who raped him in October inside a bathroom at the school, Whelchel said at a hearing in June. Whelchel told Kim the sexual assault accusation was false and concocted by the suspect in an attempt to justify what the prosecutor said is the most heinous of offenses. Earlier in the June hearing, Whelchel asked Arlington police homicide unit Detective Krystallyne Robinson whether Poirier, who died when buckshot severed the 16-year-olds brain stem, had sexually assaulted the suspect in his killing. No, sir, the detective testified. Indeed, Robinson said, there is no indication the respondent, as the accused is known in juvenile legal matters, knew Poirier, who moved to Arlington from Michigan at the beginning of the school year. The father of the 15-year-old was sentenced earlier this month to more than six years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Northern District of Texas. The 50-year-old man, who the Star-Telegram is not naming so as not to identify the juvenile, pleaded guilty to the charge in May. Court documents say the father was charged with illegal possession of the Mossberg 500 shotgun his son used in the fatal shooting. In a psychiatric evaluation, the teen was found competent to stand trial. A K-9s sniffs led to the recent arrest of a Georgia man, according to the Towns County Sheriffs Office. Early Thursday, Sergeant Brian Forsyth was working when he saw a suspicious vehicle and activity in the parking lot in the parking lot of Cornerstone Baptist Church, located on Crane Creek Road. The sergeant then called in K-9 Xena to assist. After conducting a free-air sniff Xena gave a positive alert beside the passenger door, establishing probable cause. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] A search of the car revealed a crystal-like substance which tested positively for methamphetamine. An illegally obtained prescription medication called Baclofen was also seized along with a large amount of cash. After an investigation, officials determined this may have been a drug sale. TRENDING STORIES: Mark Roberson, 36, of Blairsville was arrested. Roberson was arrested and charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession, and use of drug-related objects Roberson is being held without bond at the Towns County Detention Center. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: Two Kansas librarians have been fired after conservative officials in their town mistook a multi-colored display as something for Pride and the "LGBTQ agenda." Now they're suing, the Washington Post reports. In June, Kari Wheeler and Brandy Lancaster, librarians at the Sterling Free Public Library in Sterling, a small community in central Kansas, created two displays celebrating and raising awareness about autism and neurodiversity. The displays featured rainbow colors and messages advocating for diversity and understanding, including quotes like We all think differently and In diversity is beauty and strength, according to the paper. The displays were part of the nationwide summer reading program themed All Together Now. However, according to a lawsuit filed on Tuesday in the U.S. District Court for Kansas, the displays were misconstrued by a board member as promoting an LGBTQ agenda, leading to Wheeler and Lancasters termination. The lawsuit alleges that board member Michelle Miller waged an illegal campaign to censor the displays based on her misconception, implicating the librarys board, the city, and the mayor in violating the librarians rights to free speech. Wheeler, who had taken the role of library director in August 2022, and Lancaster, hired in March as Wheelers aide and acting assistant librarian, claimed their initiative was misunderstood as taking a stand on LGBTQ+ issues rather than its intention to support neurodiversity. They said the installation was rooted in inclusivity and referenced a Harvard Medical School article in the suit, emphasizing that neurodiversity recognizes various ways individuals interact with their surroundings, challenging the notion of a singular right way of thinking and learning. Tensions escalated quickly after a temporary library employee misconceived a multicolored infinity symbol representing LGBTQ+ Pride, triggering a series of text exchanges involving Miller. Within hours, Miller communicated her disdain for the display to Wheeler, mentioning the conservative nature of the town and her unwillingness to have the library make political statements. Despite the explanation provided by Lancaster regarding the symbols representation of neurodiversity and autism, Miller purportedly leveraged her position on the board to rally support for the removal of the display, an action that seemingly disregarded the librarians focus on inclusivity and the celebration of differences. The events culminated in two special board meetings in July, the first of which saw Wheeler and Lancaster providing information on state laws protecting library materials from censorship due to differing viewpoints, according to the Post. The second meeting resulted in the firing of both librarians, with board president Jeremy Stinemetz allegedly stating Wheeler had lost the confidence of the board to effectively perform her position. The concerned board members and Sterlings City Manager, Craig Crossette, opted not to comment on the ongoing litigation to the paper, maintaining their positions without public explanations regarding the incident. Nearly ten weeks after their dismissal, Wheeler and Lancaster initiated legal proceedings, defending their right to free speech and opposing what they claimed was a termination anchored in misconception and prejudice. The lawsuit remains pending. Libraries across the country have been attacked by far-right local residents and political leaders over LGBTQ+ books, Pride displays and the like. Pictured above is Brandy Lancaster (L) and Kari Wheeler. Jewish leaders in Kansas and Missouri on Monday criticized former President Donald Trump for comments he made on social media that attacked liberal Jews and accused those who voted against him of voting to destroy the country. Trump posted the message on the last day of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year. Despite an onslaught of criticism, the post remained online Monday afternoon. Just a quick reminder for liberal Jews who voted to destroy America & Israel because you believed false narratives! Lets hope you learned from your mistake and make better choices moving forward! Trump said Sunday on Truth Social, the social media site he owns. He followed it with a list of things he said his administration did to help the Jewish community, including moving the U.S. embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Wake Up Sheep. What Natzi/Anti Semite ever did this for the Jewish people or Israel? the post said. Rabbi Doug Alpert of Congregation Kol Ami in Kansas City excoriated the former president as antisemitic in a phone interview. Hes an antisemite, he said. I would describe him as a neo-Nazi sympathizer and he will court anybody who will say hes wonderful or vote for him. Alpert said Trumps comments about views on Israel were disingenuous at best and not related to any policy decisions. However, he said he fears that Trumps comments could lead to some violent responses from his supporters. Hes still feeding that monster and that concerns me, he said. In response to Trumps post, the American Jewish Committee, one of the oldest Jewish advocacy groups in the nation, posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, that the claim Jews who did not vote for Trump had voted to destroy America was deeply offensive. The organization urged political candidates to avoid such rhetoric. In a statement Gavriela Geller, the executive director of the AJCs Kansas City affiliate, the Jewish Community Relations Bureau, said Trumps statement was an utterly inappropriate and highly offensive way of engaging with the Jewish community on one of our holiest days in the year. To use the holiday of Rosh Hashanah as an excuse to spread rhetoric that seeks to divide and blame the Jewish community is disrespectful and completely unwelcome. This kind of speech is dangerous, divisive, and offensive, and must continue to be called out, Geller said. Trumps post followed a longstanding pattern of the former president attacking Jews who do not agree with him and embracing antisemitic individuals and movements. Rabbi Mark Levin, a founder of Congregation Beth Torah in Overland Park, said that he did not view Trumps statement as antisemetic but that it incorrectly suggested the entire American Jewish population owed the former president their votes. While Trump did things in office that some Jewish people supported, Levin said, he believed Trumps actions to undermine the Constitution and court system following the 2022 election and refusal to condemn antisemetic actions posed a larger threat to the freedoms of Jewish Americans. He pointed toward Trumps refusal to condemn the Unite the Right protest in Charlottesville, Virginia, and his willingness to meet with Kanye West and embrace antisemitic elements of the far right. Hes a much greater threat than the few things he did that might appeal to some elements of the Jewish community, Levin said. I hope that people will look very clearly not just at political statements but at who is supporting the following of the Constitution of the United States because that is what protects Jewish existence. Katy Perry has become the latest star to sell off the rights to her music catalogue. On Monday (18 September), The Carlyle Group investing firm announced that the Firework singer had sold the rights to her songs and albums released between 2008 and 2020 to Litmus Music for a reported $225m (181m). According to Deadline and Billboard, the deal includes Perrys five albums released through Capitol Records One of the Boys (2008), Teenage Dream (2010), Prism (2013), Witness (2017) and Smile (2020) which feature 16 multi-platinum singles. Litmus co-founder and CEO Hank Forsyth said: Katys songs are an essential part of the global cultural fabric. We are so grateful to be working together again with such a trusted partner whose integrity shines in everything that she does. We believe this is a testament to the teams ability to partner with the worlds top artists. Katys iconic songs have not only achieved outstanding commercial success but have significantly influenced popular culture, said Matt Settle, managing director at Carlyle. Perry, 38, is among a growing number of artists to sell the master recordings of their back catalogue. In January, Justin Bieber sold his share of his own music rights to Hipgnosis Songs Capital for a reported fee of $200m (162m). Back in January 2022, it was announced that Bob Dylan had sold the rights to his entire back catalogue to Sony, for an undisclosed amount. Katy Perry performs during the Coronation Concert on May 7, 2023 (Getty Images) Reports suggest the deal was worth between 111m and 148m, with Sony also owning the rights to the Blowin in the Wind songwriters multiple future new releases. Bruce Springsteen also sold his music to Sony in late 2021, in a mammoth deal worth a reported $500m (376m). Perrys short-lived relationship with Russell Brand is being revisited this week after the British comedian, 48, was accused of rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse by four women. Brand has strongly denied all the very serious allegations made against him, which date back to between 2006 and 2013, and has insisted that his past relationships have been absolutely always consensual. Perry, 38, has not addressed the allegations against her former husband. However, she has spoken in the past about the circumstances surrounding her split from Brand, and previously revealed that he called time on their relationship over text. Hes a very smart man, and I was in love with him when I married him, Perry told Vogue in 2013. Lets just say I havent heard from him since he texted me saying he was divorcing me December 31, 2011. She added: At first when I met him he wanted an equal, and I think a lot of times strong men do want an equal, but then they get that equal and theyre like, I cant handle the equalness, she continued. He didnt like the atmosphere of me being the boss on tour. So that was really hurtful, and it was very controlling, which was upsetting. I felt a lot of responsibility for it ending, but then I found out the real truth, which I cant necessarily disclose because I keep it locked in my safe for a rainy day. I let go and I was like: This isnt because of me; this is beyond me. So I have moved on from that. A missing kayaker thought to have drowned in the Mississippi River was found alive and on the run in Georgia, Louisiana deputies said. The mans son called the St. Charles Parish Sheriffs Office on Aug. 7 to report his father, 41-year-old Melvin Emde, as missing, according to a Sept. 18 news release. The son told deputies Emde was kayaking on the Mississippi River near Hahnville, Louisiana, just west of New Orleans, when he went overboard and drowned, according to the release. On the same day Emdes son said his father had died in the water, Emde was due to appear in court in Brunswick County, North Carolina, on the southeastern tip of the state, deputies said. Emde was facing charges of indecent liberties with a child and statutory rape of a child by an adult, according to the sheriffs office. We immediately became quite suspicious that this may have been a faked accidental drowning and death in order for Mr. Emde to escape charges in Brunswick County, North Carolina. However, we could not publicly expose our suspicions for fear of tipping him off, Sheriff Greg Champagne said in the release. Emde was wearing an ankle monitor as a condition of his bail, and deputies used the tracking device to learn Emde had gone to Walmart on the day he drowned in Boutte, Louisiana, according to the release. He had purchased two pre-paid phones, then tried to use the phones discreetly by turning only one on at a time for very short periods, deputies said. Deputies tracked one of the phones to Oklahoma, where Emde is originally from, until he stopped using the phones and his trail grew cold, according to the release. Then, on Sept. 17, a Georgia State Patrol trooper saw a motorcycle driving in Tift County without a license plate, deputies said. When he tried to pull the motorcycle driver over, he took off, speeding away before he crashed, according to the release. The motorcycle driver was taken into custody under a fake name after deputies said he tried to run away on foot, according to the sheriffs office. Once the driver was fingerprinted, Georgia authorities learned it was Emde and were alerted to his record, according to the release. Now its time for Mr. Emde to face the music for his charges in North Carolina, Champagne said in the release. Tift County is about 185 miles south of Atlanta. Contractor looking for mold smells something more dangerous and illegal, SC cops say 17-year-old dresses up as married woman to try and rob bank, Florida cops say Distressed woman seeking help at church is charged with murder, NC cops say Dad calls 911 after car with infant inside vanishes during drug deal, Alabama cops say KANSAS CITY, Mo. The Kansas City Police Department is currently searching for a missing woman. LaKesha Gooley, 32, was last seen leaving her home near 83rd and Main Street, in Kansas City. She was seen around 10:45 p.m. Sunday. Childrens pastor charged in Shawnee house fire that injured family; attempted stabbing Gooley is a black female with brown hair and brown eyes. She was wearing an unknown-colored tank top and an unknown-colored shorts with pink or yellow Crocs. Gooley has medical conditions that require care. If you see Gooley call KCPD Missing Person section at 816-234-5043. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. Republican comments about impeachment are coming back to haunt them. A new supercut video from MSNBC shows that top GOP lawmakers including House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) and Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) had some very different feelings about the process not too long ago when Donald Trump was the subject. Our job is to legislate, not to continue to investigate something in the back when you cannot find any reason to impeach this president, McCarthy then minority leader said during Trumps first impeachment, in 2019. Yet last week, McCarthy opened an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden based on debunked claims and evidence that Republican lawmakers have implied they have, but never made public. In 2019, Jordan complained that Democrats didnt have the votes to do this right. Last week, after McCarthy opened the inquiry without a vote, Jordan said Republicans dont need the votes to move forward. In 2020, Stefanik complained that Trumps impeachment was very partisan despite 10 GOP lawmakers in the House crossing party lines to join the effort. Today, she has no problem with an impeachment that doesnt even have the full support of her own party. See those comments and more in the supercut that aired on The Mehdi Hasan Show on Sunday night: Compare and contrast what House Republicans like Kevin McCarthy, Elise Stefanik, Jim Jordan, and James Comer were saying about impeachment and impeachment inquiries in 2019.. versus what they're saying *now*. We have receipts. Roll the tape! #mustwatchpic.twitter.com/My4nn8VOnk Mehdi Hasan (@mehdirhasan) September 18, 2023 The best way of understanding House Speaker Kevin McCarthy s decision to back a baseless, ridiculous impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden is as a desperation play. McCarthys reign has been defined almost totally by one dynamic: He is completely in thrall to a gaggle of right-wing bomb-throwers who know they can end his time leading the House of Representatives whenever they want. McCarthy has to keep them happy: To get anything, he has to do what they want, even if its stupid and self-defeating. Hence the impeachment inquiry. That ploy was part of a larger effort to get his caucus in line at a critical juncture. The government will shut down on September 30 if Congress doesnt pass a series of appropriations bills, which Biden then signs. This should have been (relatively) easy. The government funding deal struck by McCarthy and Biden in the spring was designed to make it easy. It hasnt been. Instead, McCarthy isagainpresiding over a circus: House Republican fecklessness and incompetence is reaching absurd levels. They are such a mess they cant even fund the militaryarguably the easiest thing House Republicans have to do when theyre in the majority. And yet, last Thursday, McCarthy was forced to pull an $826 billion defense spending bill, knowing that he didnt have the votes to pass it. Members of the far-right House Freedom Caucus refused to back it, even though the vast majority of Republicans wanted to move it forward. The failure to pass a defense spending bill is the clearest example in the ongoing appropriations fight of how little power McCarthy hasand how likely a government shutdown is becoming. Nobodys objecting to whats in the bill, House Rules Committee Chair Tom Cole told Politico last week in a revealing quote. Everybodys trying to leverage the bill for something now. That is the dynamic, and it is one that will almost certainly shut down the government. Freedom Caucus members are trying to leverage support for defense spending for even steeper cuts to other programs. We all concede defense is going to continue to rise. But the exchange for that has to be we have to make cuts in other areas of the bureaucracy, said Representative Dan Bishop, a Freedom Caucus member who voted against beginning debate last week. In other words, the right wing is willing to support one of its own priorities (defense spending) only if it can get its other priorities as well (spending cuts elsewhere). Bishop added: Once the entire package is ready and I can see it and I can see that everybodys prepared to move it, then Im prepared to move individual bills. This despite the fact that McCarthy and Biden already agreed to spending levels far below$100 billion below, in factwhat is required via the Fiscal Responsibility Act, which the president signed into law in June. As Punchbowl News reported on Friday, there is a plan, sort of. Freedom Caucus members are attempting to negotiate a compromise with what passes for moderate GOP House members: a deal that would pair a short-term extension of government funding with billions of dollars in disaster relief and H.R. 2, the Secure the Border Act, allowing a defense bill to pass the House. There are two problems, however. One is that the extension is very short-term: only 30 days. And the other, which is related, is that there is no chance that the Senate, which Democrats narrowly hold, would pass such a bill or that Biden would sign it. Tension boiled over at a meeting of House Republicans on Thursday. If you want to file the motion, file the fucking motion, McCarthy said, referring to a motion to vacate, which would trigger a new vote for speaker. Right-wingers have been threatening to use such a tactic to remove him more or less since he took the gaveleven though he has acquiesced to them at nearly every turn. (One notable exception was the deal McCarthy struck with Biden.) This outburst may have been defiant, but it was one that only underscores McCarthys weakness: two weeks before the government is set to shut down, and he is in full desperation mode. All of this only underscores the larger truth: that House Republicans simply arent interested in governing. McCarthy is powerless. The GOPs far-right flank holds nearly all the power, and theyre using it to launch pointless investigations and make demands for draconian cuts. With less than two weeks to go until the government shuts down, its hard to see anything changing. By Michel Rose, Elizabeth Pineau and Michael Holden PARIS (Reuters) -After flames engulfed France's Notre-Dame cathedral in 2019, Britain's future King Charles III wrote to President Emmanuel Macron , describing his heartbreak and offering his help and advice on the restoration. This week, more than four years on, the monarch will tour France on a royal visit and inspect the site of the inferno that stirred memories of the blaze that swept through his own family's home of Windsor Castle in 1992. The trip that starts on Wednesday will be filled with many such personal touches and moments of symbolism as Britain and France seek to rebuild ties tested by the bitter and chaotic years of Brexit. Charles had meant to make France his first royal visit after his coronation, but the March trip was abruptly cancelled by violent French protests over pension reforms, much to Macron's embarrassment. On their second attempt, the 74-year-old king and the 45-year-old president will set out to build on a relationship already bolstered by their communications over Notre-Dame and their shared interest in climate and heritage, royal aides said. Charles and his wife Queen Camilla are scheduled to visit Paris before heading southwest to the vineyards of Bordeaux. The king, a fluent French speaker like his mother, is keen to walk in the late Queen Elizabeth's footsteps and is likely to refer to his mother's deep affection for France, officials said. Elizabeth visited France 13 times during her reign, more than any other country in Europe, according to Buckingham Palace. On her first official trip in 1957, she had lunch with President Rene Coty in the Hall of Mirrors of the Palace of Versailles. The former French royal palace will be back in action on Wednesday night during a state banquet in its famed 17th century gallery, built by the "Sun King" to project the power and majesty of the French monarchy. The day after that, Charles and Camilla will visit the flower market named after Queen Elizabeth on Paris' Ile de la Cite. POMP, PALACES AND CLIMATE TALKS The warms words and symbolic visits will stand in stark contrast to some of the language exchanged on more political levels in recent years. Macron's hardball tactics during the talks to negotiate Britain's departure from the European Union had prompted angry outbursts by former prime minister Boris Johnson and vitriol in UK tabloids. Britain's role in negotiating a security pact between the United States and Australia, torpedoing a multi-billion submarine deal the French had negotiated with Canberra, left Macron seething and brought relations to a new low. Johnson's successor as premier, Liz Truss, initially said the jury was out on whether France was a friend or foe, before settling on calling it a friend last year. Her successor, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, visited France in March to kick off what he called an "entente renewed". This week the king and the president will have a face-to-face meeting at the Elysee Palace about the war in Ukraine, the coups in the Sahel and Britain's upcoming artificial intelligence summit among other issues, French officials said. "The king is always very interested in the president's analysis of major international issues," an Elysee official told Reuters. They will also have plenty in common when they meet in the Natural History Museum in Paris to discuss global warming. During the COP climate negotiations in Glasgow in 2021, Macron and the then Prince Charles worked together to raise funds for the Great Green Wall initiative which aimed to plant an 8,000 km band of trees across Africa. Charles convinced Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos to give $1 billion to the scheme, Macron told Reuters at the time as he raced to his presidential plane on his way back to Paris. "It's Prince Charles who made Bezos come," Macron said. "He is very committed on the environment, and has been for a long time. And he's a formidable believer in the friendship between France and the UK." (Writing by Michel Rose; Editing by Andrew Heavens) The release on Monday of the Americans who were wrongfully detained in Iran ends a years-long saga that included lengthy detentions in Tehrans notorious Evin Prison, which is known for its long record of human rights abuses. Emad Shargi, Morad Tahbaz and Siamak Namazi are among the five Americans whose release is part of a deal that included the transfer of $6 billion in Iranian funds from South Korea to Qatar and the release of five Iranians in US custody. Two additional Americans in the deal have not yet been publicly identified. Namazi, Irans longest-held Iranian-American prisoner, had been detained since 2015. The 51-year-old was arrested when he was on a business trip to Iran in what the UN has described as an arbitrary detention. The Dubai-based businessman was charged with having relations with a hostile state, referring to the US. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison. US citizens Siamak Namazi (2nd-L) and Morad Tahbaz (R) are welcomed by people upon disembarking from a Qatari jet upon their arrival at the Doha International Airport in Doha on September 18, 2023.(Photo by AFP) (Photo by -/AFP via Getty Images) - AFP/Getty Images The International Campaign for Human Rights in Iran said the country does not recognize dual citizenship and that it routinely harasses citizens and dual nationals with trumped up national security charges. Namazi was the first US citizen reported to have been detained in Iran since the announcement of an international agreement on Irans nuclear program. His father, Baquer, was also imprisoned in 2016 but was released in order to receive medical treatment in October 2022. Tahbaz, an environmentalist, and Sharghi, a businessman, were first arrested in 2018. Tahbaz is a US, UK and Iranian citizen who was arrested on allegations of espionage while on a trip to Iran. Prior to his arrest, both he and his wife had been blocked by an exit ban from leaving the country. In November 2019, he was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Tahbazs daughter, Tara, described her father in an interview with CNNs Christiane Amanpour earlier this year. So, my father, his whole life from a young age, has been very passionate about environment and environmental conservation and wildlife preservation, which led him to found the Persian Wildlife Heritage co-found the Persian Wildlife Heritage Foundation, she said. But my father is an amazing person. He is so calm, so kind, so generous, so noble. He will move mountains to protect the people that he cares about. He is an amazing father, that goes without saying. Tara Tahbaz told CNN that her father had cancer and had gone through several medical conditions while hes incarcerated, including having Covid-19 three times. Kavous Seyed Emami, another co-founder of the Persian Wildlife Heritage Foundation, was also arrested in 2018 but died in prison under disputed circumstances. Shargi was first arrested in 2018 while working for a technology investment company. He spent eight months in jail and was released on bail but had a travel ban. In November 2020, he was sentenced to 10 years in jail by a Revolutionary Court for espionage charges. Hannah Sharghi, one of Emads daughters, described her dad as her best friend. And Neda Sharghi, his sister, told CNN when he was released into house arrest and able to speak with her, he went into typical big brother role asking me how I am, how my kids are, how our parents are and of course his wife and his two daughters. Both Shargi and Tahbaz were convicted on charges that international human rights organization stated were lacking evidence and were tried lacking fair trail guarantees, according to the US State Department. CNNs Jennifer Hansler contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com The Fairfield County Engineers Office announced that the following road in Liberty/Greenfield Township will be closed for one day to remove and replace the existing culvert. Pleasantville Road NW (CR 17) will be closed on Tuesday, Sept. 19, to remove and replace the existing culvert. This closure will take place on Pleasantville Road NW between Stringtown Road and Lancaster-Kirkersville Road (SR 158). Construction will take place between house numbers 635 and 655 Pleasantville NW. Senate passes Schaffer bill closing gap in First Responders' Workers Compensation Coverage COLUMBUS - The Ohio Senate passed Senate Bill 106 today, sponsored by State Senator Tim Schaffer (R-Lancaster) to close a loophole in workers' compensation coverage for nurses and physicians exposed to bodily fluids on air ambulance flights. Under current workers compensation law, their pathogen testing expenses are not covered should they need testing for bloodborne pathogens. Senate Bill 106 expands the category of those eligible for workers compensation coverage for testing for bloodborne pathogens after exposure to include nurse and physicians. "This is a genuinely odd quirk in the law, brought to my attention by a constituent who is a flight nurse," said Schaffer. "Thankfully, she is also licensed as a paramedic and was able to obtain workers compensation coverage when she needed testing after being exposed to potentially deadly diseases. Excluding doctors and nurses from coverage is something I knew we had to fix immediately." Paramedics, EMTs, and other first responders are already eligible to receive workers compensation for bloodborne pathogen testing, but not physicians and nurses, who are required to be present on a rotorcraft or fixed wing air ambulance. This article originally appeared on Lancaster Eagle-Gazette: Culvert replacement, Senate passes Schaffer bill: What you need to know President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that he currently knows where the Defence Forces will be able to break through Russian defences, but he will not talk about it. Source: Zelenskyy in an interview with CBS Quote from Zelenskyy: "Some people do not understand what it means to move forward where there are about 200,000 Russian troops. This is in the east of the country. This is happening today. Yes, everyone wants us to break through the defence lines. We want it very much. Breaking through the defence lines is not easy. But it will happen. I am sure of it. I cannot say where it will be faster. I can't talk about it... I'm sorry, because I know where we are going to break through and break through powerfully." Details: The President added that he hopes this will happen and believes in Ukrainian soldiers. Background: Commenting on the slow progress of the counteroffensive, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that it was important for the defenders to move forward, even if across a short distance, and not give the president of the aggressor country respite. 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! A Kohls security officer helped catch a man accused of taking upskirt photos of a woman shopping at the store, California police reported. Officers believe the man may have other victims, Huntington Beach police said in a Sept. 15 news release. A security officer called police at 3:30 p.m. Sept. 9 after noticing a man secretly taking photos under the skirt of a woman in the store, police said. The officer continued to monitor the man until police arrived. Police officers arrested the 37-year-old Pico Rivera man on multiple charges, including invasion of privacy and obstruction. Investigators said they believe the man has committed similar acts. They ask anyone with information to contact Sgt. Anthony Pham at 714-878-5640 or apham@hbpd.org. Anonymous tips can be left at 1-855-847-6227. Huntington Beach is about 40 miles south of Los Angeles. Two die after speeding car crashes through dead end into canal, California cops say Girl screaming for help fights off man attacking her on trail, Colorado cops say 40-year-old woman set fire to Target to hide baby formula theft, California police say By Soo-hyang Choi SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea's main opposition leader was hospitalised on Monday, days into a hunger strike in protest against government policies, while prosecutors sought an arrest warrant for him over corruption allegations. Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, began the protest on Aug. 31, citing the government's economic mismanagement, threats to media freedom and the failure to oppose the Fukushima wastewaster release, among other reasons. The former presidential candidate was transferred to a hospital from the National Assembly in Seoul Monday morning after suffering from dehydration and dizziness, his party said. Kim Gi-hyeon, the head of the ruling People Power Party, has urged Lee to stop fasting, saying he was ready to talk with the opposition leader on policy issues. Hours after Lee was transferred to a hospital, prosecutors said they had requested an arrest warrant for him as part of an investigation into a development project and bribery allegations. Lee is accused of being in breach of his duty over losses of 20 billion won ($15 million) run up by Seongnam Development Corporation during his time as mayor of Seongnam city, prosecutors said. Prosecutors also accused Lee of bribery in connection with a company suspected of $8 million in illegal money transfers to North Korea. Lee has denied any wrongdoing, calling the allegations "fiction" and a "political conspiracy." A Seoul court needs the 300-member parliament, where the Democrats hold a majority, to waive Lee's immunity from arrest to review the prosecution's request. Parliament rejected their previous request for an arrest warrant in February. Lee lost to President Yoon Suk Yeol, a former prosecutor-general, in the 2022 presidential election by a margin of 0.7%. ($1 = 1,327.4000 won) (Reporting by Soo-hyang Choi and Hyonhee Shin. Editing by Gerry Doyle) [Source] South Korean actor Byun Hee-bong died at age 81 after battling pancreatic cancer. Byuns death: Byun was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2019, and after a successful recovery after treatment, the disease returned, leading to his death on Monday, according to his family. The circumstances of his death have not been disclosed. His funeral will reportedly be held in Samsung Seoul Hospital's mortuary. Byun's roles: Byun, who was born in 1942 in South Jeolla Province, worked in live theater before becoming a voice actor for state TV network MBC in 1966. The veteran actor has appeared in numerous TV series, including The First Republic (1981), "The Joseon Dynasty 500 Years: Seoljungmae" (1985) and "The Legendary Doctor - Hur Jun" (1999). More from NextShark: Video: BLACKPINK covers TLC, Spice Girls songs in 'Carpool Karaoke' final appearance He also landed significant roles in the acclaimed director Bong Joon-hos hit films, such as "Barking Dogs Never Bite" (2000), "Memories of Murder" (2003), "The Host" (2006) and "Okja" (2017). Recognition and awards: Byun earned numerous award nominations in Korea and regionally in Asia. He won best supporting actor at the 27th Blue Dragon Awards for his role in Bong's "The Host, and the award for the most popular actor in the TV category at the 21st Baeksang Arts Awards for his role in the period drama series The Joseon Dynasty 500 Years: Seoljungmae. In 2020, he received the Eungwan Order of Cultural Merit, which is the second-highest class of the South Korean cultural decoration from the government, for his contribution to the nations pop culture. More from NextShark: Chinese netizens slam Korean celebrities for saying 'Lunar New Year' instead of 'Chinese New Year' Enjoy this content? Read more from NextShark! Jon M. Chu's ABC thriller The Company You Keep canceled after one season Randall Park to deliver UCLA commencement address in June The Kremlin has no information about the illness of Ramzan Kadyrov , Russian-controlled Head of Chechnya, Russian Presidential Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov has said. However, a Russian journalist reported that Kadyrov is ill and needs frequent haemodialysis. (Chechnya is a federal subject of Russia; the Ukrainian parliament has recognised it as the temporarily Russian-occupied territory of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria.) Source: Latvia-based Russian media outlet Meduza; Telegram channel You listened to Mayak; Alexei Venediktov , former editor-in-chief of the Russian radio station Echo of Moscow, on Telegram Quote from Peskov: "We have no information on this matter. The Presidential Administration is unlikely to issue health certificates." Details: For his part, Russian journalist Venediktov said Kadyrov has "typical severe renal failure", so he "needs frequent haemodialysis", which "is obviously what is happening in the Central Clinical Hospital [Moscow]". He also posted a document dated 3 July stating that Kadyrov was going on vacation, and added that there had been no reports that the Chechen leader had come back from his leave. Background: Lately, information about Kadyrov's severe illness has emerged on Telegram channels. They said he had fallen into a coma and even died. On 17 September, apparently, in order to refute these reports, a video of Kadyrov walking in a park was posted on his Telegram channel. However, where and when this recording was made is unknown. 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! In an effort to convince a state panel to invest millions in researching a psychedelic drug to treat opioid addiction, more than a dozen people on Friday shared intimate details of how ibogaine saved and transformed their lives. Dakota Meyer , a native Kentuckian, U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Congressional Medal of Honor recipient, told Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission members in Frankfort that he struggled with PTSD for more than a decade after returning home from war. He tried an extensive regimen of medication to treat his PTSD, to no avail. This path led me nowhere I wanted to be. The medication, itself, brought its own challenges and side effects, he said. In 2019, he tried ibogaine for the first time. An alkaloid derived from the root bark of an iboga shrub native to West Central Africa, ibogaine is currently a Schedule 1 drug in the U.S. Accessing it legally requires international travel. In Kentucky, more than 9,000 people have died of an overdose since 2018, according to state data. Though 5% fewer Kentuckians died last year of overdose than in 2021, opioids caused 90% of those 2,135 deaths. The rise of fentanyl, a highly-addictive, fully-synthetic opioid lethal in small quantities has worsened the crisis. While ibogaine has a growing following as a treatment for addiction and severe PTSD, the drug has not yet been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for distribution. In late May, Bryan Hubbard, the chair of Kentuckys commission, proposed using $42 million of the states roughly $900 million in opioid lawsuit settlement money to become the first state to research the experimental drug as a potential therapeutic for opioid addiction. Addiction researchers and some commission members were quick to cite its health risks, chiefly the heightened stress it puts on ones heart, which has caused fatal side effects. Fridays hearing was the second public meeting on the subject; the first was in July. Commission members will formally vote on whether to fund this research later this fall. Ibogaine saved me and gave me back my life, Meyer said. It offered me a true path to recovery I never even imagined was possible. It provided me with a renewed sense or purpose and strength to rebuild my life. Jerry Catlett, of Mercer County, said his son struggled with addiction for years before trying ibogaine. Catlett said he and his wife thought this was another gimmick. Theres no way in hell this is going to help someone with addiction, he said Friday. But they were desperate. My wife and I had already come to the conclusion that our son was a dead man walking. We were prepared at any time for a policeman to show up at our door and say he was no longer with us, Catlett said through sobs. He and his wife pulled together the money and put their son on a plane. Honestly, I did not think Id see the boy (again) alive, he said. That was about 10 years ago. The ibogaine treatment had worked, and Catletts son has been sober since, he said. Catlett, like many of the speakers, begged commission members to approve the funding of this research. Whats the definition of insanity? Doing the same thing over and over, expecting a different result, Catlett said. Is that not what were doing with our opioid (epidemic)? We have to do something different. I hope you can do it. While FDA-approved medications to treat opioid addiction, chiefly buprenorphine, naltrexone and methadone, do help many people maintain long-term recovery, many of the people who addressed the commission said those medications didnt help them as much as ibogaine did. Paria Zandi, who spoke during Hubbards initial announcement to fund ibogaine research in May, said her mom exhausted her life savings to send her to drug treatment centers more than 10 times before she tried ibogaine. A licensed therapist in California, Zandi has been sober nearly a decade. Ben Chandler, president of Foundation for Healthy Kentucky, called the opioid epidemic an intractable problem. Chandler, whose brother died of a fentanyl overdose earlier this year, said, bottom line to me is, despite the best efforts of so many people . . . we have been unable to solve this problem. A proponent of the research, Chandler said, We need as many tools as we get. Im hoping that ibogaine is part of the answer. Many of the people who spoke on Friday were invited to speak by commission members. Notably absent from the public hearing were critics of ibogaine, or people highlighting its health risks. These risks are in part why the FDA has not given a green light to clinical trials studying its efficacy, the Herald-Leader previously reported. Ibogaine shows promise for its ability to blunt withdrawals and cravings. But it also blocks channels in the heart that can cause an irregular heartbeat and prolong the time it takes for ones heart to relax between beats, which has led to some fatal heart attacks among some patients, according to the National Institute of Health. While ibogaine has some cardiac risks you may be aware, Dr. Veronica Slootsky, a board-certified psychiatrist in Tennessee, told the commission Friday. But many of these risks can be mitigated with monitoring and screening. In the case of addiction that leads to death, the benefit appears to greatly outweigh the risk, she said. We need further research to determine how to adminster this medication in a safe and effective way. Dr. Steve Katsikas, clinical psychologist and professor at Spalding University, who co-authored a 2017 paper on ibogaine published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, said it was remarkable that Kentucky of all places was hosting this conversation. Given the robust and preliminary evidence supporting ibogaine, Katsikas said, Kentucky stands at a very interesting (place), in terms of being able to pioneer ibogaine trials in the U.S. My opinion, Katsikas said: the people of Kentucky deserve this opportunity. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine has denied statements from the Georgian defence and security services concerning Kyivs alleged involvement in preparations for a rebellion against the current government. Source: European Pravda, citing Oleh Nikolenko, spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Quote: "This information is not true. The current Georgian government is once again attempting to demonise Ukraine to solve its internal political issues. The Ukrainian state has not interfered, does not interfere and does not plan to interfere in the internal affairs of Georgia," the spokesman emphasised. Details: Nikolenko said that Kyiv had paid attention to claims made by representatives of the Georgian defence and security services regarding the alleged involvement of the Ukrainian side in the preparation of a rebellion in Georgia. Background: The State Security Service of Georgia has alleged that the former Georgian deputy minister of internal affairs, now Ukraines deputy military intelligence chief, and his subordinates, including individuals from Mikheil Saakashvilis inner circle, are involved in preparations for destabilisation efforts in Georgia with the aim of effecting a violent regime change "along the lines of the Euromaidan" between October and December. 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! Update 1:30 p.m. Monday: A 29-year-old man was arrested early Monday, 36 hours after the ambush killing of a Los Angeles County sheriffs deputy who was shot as he sat in a patrol car, authorities said. The suspect barricaded himself inside a home in the city of Palmdale for several hours, but later surrendered and weapons were recovered, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna told a news conference. Luna said authorities have not yet determined a motive for the killing of 30-year-old Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer on Saturday evening. He described the situation as fluid and said there could be more arrests but that he believes the suspect is the person who killed the deputy. I feel extremely confident that we have the right person in custody, Luna said. Our deputy was in uniform in a marked black-and-white police vehicle right in front of the station, Luna said. Why did he do this? I have no idea. Was he targeted? Im assuming he was but ... our intent is to find out. Hundreds attended a vigil outside the Palmdale sheriff's station Sunday for the third-generation law-enforcement officer who had got engaged just four days before he was shot and killed. On Monday, Luna read a statement from Clinkunbroomer's family, saying he was dedicated, hardworking and proud to serve alongside his colleagues. Ryan made the ultimate sacrifice in doing so, the statement said. Ryan was recently engaged to the love of his life. As our firstborn son, Ryan will be greatly missed by his family, friends and the sheriffs department as a whole. Clinkunbroomer had just left the sheriffs station in Palmdale, a city of more than 167,000 residents in the high desert of northern Los Angeles County. A good Samaritan spotted him and alerted station personnel. The department later released grainy surveillance video of a dark-colored sedan that pulled alongside the patrol car in the moments before the shooting. Luna said community members came forward with information that led homicide investigators to identify the suspect and the vehicle. Early Monday, a SWAT team from the department's Special Enforcement Bureau served a search warrant at the residence and called for all occupants to come out, the sheriff said. Family members came out but the suspect barricaded himself inside, he said. Deputies used de-escalation techniques including negotiators before they deployed chemical agents and the suspect surrendered, Luna said. He did not identify the weapons that were seized. The sheriff said he was proud because those special enforcement deputies took the time to try to de-escalate this and take this individual peacefully into custody when they knew that our deputy was not afforded the same opportunity. The sheriff said Clinkunbroomer had been assigned to the Palmdale station since July 2018, and that his father and grandfather had also served in the department. Deputy Sheriff Ryan Clinkunbroomer and his family are an integral part of the very essence of the Los Angeles Sheriffs Department, and this heart-wrenching murder cuts to the very core of our being, Richard Pippin, the president of the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs, the deputies union, said in a statement. California Gov. Gavin Newsom called the killing horrific, unconscionable and shocking. He ordered flags at the state Capitol flown at half-staff in Clinkunbroomer's honor. In this time of mourning, we honor this legacy and send our deepest sympathies to Deputy Clinkunbroomers fiancee, his loved ones, and the men and women of the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department, Newsom said in a statement Sunday. Deputy Clinkunbroomers devotion to community and country will never be forgotten. Deputy William Warner, who trained Clinkunbroomer, told the Los Angeles Times his determination to follow in his fathers and grandfathers footsteps was evident in his work ethic. He just wanted to do the best that he could do, Warner said, and do his small part to make a difference in the best way that he could. Original story 10 a.m. Monday: The shooting death of a Los Angeles County sheriff deputy has prompted county officials to issue a $250,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of those involved. Meanwhile, investigators are asking the public for help in identifying a suspect and locating a "vehicle of interest." Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer, 30, an eight-year veteran of the sheriffs department, was killed in an ambush shooting outside of the Palmdale sheriff's station on Saturday, authorities reported. The Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department is seeking those responsible for the shooting death of Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023 in Palmdale. "Our deputy never even had a chance, said Sheriff Robert Luna during a press conference that day. A vigil for Clinkunbroomer was held Sunday evening outside the Palmdale sheriff's station, located about 30 miles west of San Bernardino County, which borders the county of Los Angeles. Reward Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger ($100,000), the City of Palmdale ($100,00) and the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs ($50,000) have each authorized awards for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the deputys death, sheriffs officials said. Barger called Saturdays killing of deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer an "unprovoked attack on an honorable public servant." "Whoever committed this cowardly act will be caught. The person or persons responsible will be held accountable," she said. The Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department is seeking a dark colored 2006-2012 Toyota Corolla, 4-door sedan, which has been identified as a vehicle of interest in the shooting death of Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023 in Palmdale. Vehicle of interest Sheriffs deputies on Saturday circulated a video showing Clinkunbroomers patrol car at the time of the shooting. Detectives are seeking a "vehicle of interest," described as a gray 2006-2012 Toyota Corolla. Detectives are asking the public for help in locating the vehicle and are asking anyone with information to call the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500. To provide information anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477) or lacrimestoppers.org. Additionally by using a smartphone and downloading the P3Tips Mobile APP on Google Play or the Apple App Store. The shooting Sheriff Luna stated that before the shooting, Clinkunbroomer had just left the station in his patrol vehicle. He was in full uniform and was sitting at a red light at the intersection of Sierra Highway and E. Avenue Q before 6 p.m., when a good samaritan found the deputy slumped over the wheel, Luna said. The unidentified good samaritan alerted authorities at the Palmdale station about the injured deputy, who was transported to Antelope Valley Medical Center with a gunshot wound, the sheriff said. "Despite the medical staff's best efforts to save our deputy's life, regrettably he succumbed to his injuries," Luna said. At this time, the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department homicide investigators are investigating the murder of our deputy. A vigil for Los Angeles County Sheriffs Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer, 30, was held Sunday evening outside the Palmdale sheriff's station. The deputy was killed in an ambush shooting outside of the sheriff's station on Saturday, authorities said. Sheriff Luna stopped reading his notes and asked for the publics help in locating the suspect. He added We need to get this guy off the street. Guy or guys. "Im going to continuously refer to them as cowards because thats what they arecowards," Luna said. "To attack a deputy sheriff in uniform in a black and white, whos just sitting there at a red light, about to go out and serve our community. That is absolutely 100% unacceptable." Clinkunbroomer had just become engaged to his girlfriend four days ago, according to Luna, who indicated that the deputy left behind his fiancee, parents, and grandparents. "He didn't deserve this," an emotional Luna said. "This is so unfair. We're hurting because we lost somebody. It hurts bad. It sucks, just to put it bluntly. Our hearts absolutely go out to his family." Condolences San Bernardino County Sheriffs officials and the county district attorneys office offered their condolences to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department and Clinkunbroomers family. Republican state Sen. Scott Wilk, who represents the Antelope Valley, Victor Valley, and most of the Santa Clarita Valley, called the murder of Clinkunbroomer "senseless" and "maddening and heartbreaking." On Sunday night, 34th District Assemblyman Tom Lackey, who serves San Bernardino, Kern and Los Angeles counties, said it was very emotional for him to speak at the candlelight vigil for the fallen Clinkunbroomer. The outpouring of love and support for his family and fellow officers was outstanding, Lackey said. Thousands of people from all over the Antelope Valley and beyond came to pay tribute to Deputy Clinkunbroomer's memory. Gov. Gavin Newsom called the killing "horrific, unconscionable, and shocking." He ordered flags at the state capitol flown at half-staff in honor of Clinkunbroomer. Daily Press reporter Rene Ray De La Cruz may be reached at 760-951-6227 or RDeLaCruz@VVDailyPress.com. Follow him on Twitter @DP_ReneDeLaCruz This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Update: A suspect has been arrested in killing of a L.A County deputy Former national security adviser to President Donald Trump and pote ntial candidate for U.S. Senate Robert C. OBrien talks after doing an interview at his home in the Greater Salt Lake area on Tuesday, July 18, 2023. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News The potential primary field in the race to become Utahs next junior senator immediately began to grow after Sen. Mitt Romneys announcement Wednesday that he will not seek a second term. Roosevelt Mayor Rod Bird Jr. announced his candidacy Monday, bringing the number of candidates who have filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission up to five. However, Robert OBrien, a former national security adviser to Donald Trump, announced on The Hugh Hewitt Show Monday morning he would not run for the seat after praying with his wife about the decision. It had been reported that OBrien was being encouraged to run by insiders from across the conservative political spectrum, including Rep. Mike Waltz, R-Fla, and Rep. Mike Gallagher, R-Wisc. OBrien said he is encouraging former Congressman Jason Chaffetz to run for the seat. Chaffetz has previously said he would rather run for governor. Meanwhile, on Friday, Tim Ballard, the founder and former CEO of Operation Underground Railroad, an anti-child sex trafficking organization, said on the Sean Spicer Show on Fox News digital, that he was seriously considering a run for the Senate. That came after multiple sources said Ballard was looking to announce his intent to enter the race in coming days, but before news spread about fresh controversy surrounding him. If Ballard joins the race, he will face Riverton Mayor Trent Staggs, who announced he would challenge Romney for his seat in May, and likely Utah House Speaker Brad Wilson as well, who formed an an exploratory committee for a 2024 bid in April. Heres a list of those who have declared their candidacy, those who appear likely to jump in the race, and others whose names have been thrown around as possible contenders: Who has declared their candidacy for the 2024 U.S. Senate race in Utah? Trent Staggs is the mayor of Riverton, Utah. He has served in elected office in Riverton for 10 years, first as a city councilor and then as mayor. Brad Wilson is the state House Speaker, a position he has held since 2018. He was first elected to represent Kaysville in the state legislature in 2010. Rod Bird Jr. is the mayor of Roosevelt, Utah. Prior to his election in 2017, he founded Paragon Oilfield Products, which provides pipes and hoses for industrial and agricultural use. Tyrone Jensen is a self-described political commentator who ran for Utahs 2nd District seat in 2023 and 2020 as a Republican, and as a write-in candidate in the 2018 Senate election. Gabriel Blanco-Lobo is a data scientist in the Salt Lake City area, according to his LinkedIn. Who else might enter the 2024 U.S. Senate race in Utah? Kirk Jowers is the CEO and founder of ADDAX, an overlanding camper business. Jowers previously worked as president of North America for doTERRA, as director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics and as a legal counsel to congressional and gubernatorial candidates. Sources close to Jowers say he is considering a run. Jason Chaffetz is a former congressman and currently works as a Fox News commentator and podcast host. He has also authored several books. John Curtis is the congressman representing Utahs 3rd District. He was elected in 2017 after serving nearly two terms as mayor of Provo, Utah. Curtis said Wednesday he had not closed the door on a senate run. Be it in the House or Senate, theres much more to accomplish for Utah and I look forward to getting things done. Carolyn Phippen is the Executive Director of Freedom Front, a pro-business lobbying group based in Utah. Utah GOP chair Rob Axson floated her name as someone who is seriously considering launching a senate campaign. Whos not running Utah Gov. Spencer Cox told FOX 13 he had no plans to enter the race. Greg Hughes also told FOX 13 he will not run. Sean Reyes said Wednesday he had decided not to run. Blake Moore told AXIOS he is not planning on running. Jason Perry, the director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, told Politico hes keeping his eye on Boyd Matheson, a KSL News Radio host and former chief of staff to Sen. Mike Lee; and Brad Bonham, a founder of multiple businesses and the first entrepreneur-in-residence of the Governors Office of Economic Opportunity. A list of other names being floated as possible 2024 hopefuls was compiled by Deseret News columnists LaVarr Webb and Frank Pignanelli. You can read it here. When do candidates need to file by? To have a chance at qualifying for the Utah primary and general election ballots in 2024 candidates will need to fill out forms with the Federal Election Commission, which regulates campaign fundraising, and with the Lt. Gov.s office during the states filing period which is Jan. 2-8. Utah requires U.S. Senate candidates to pay a $1,355 filing fee and receive their partys nomination during an official convention or by gathering 28,000 certified signatures for members of registered state parties, or 1,000 for unaffiliated candidates. The Utah Republican Party nominating convention to select one or two candidates to move on to the primary will be April 27. The 2024 primary election in Utah will be held on June 25, followed by the general election on Nov. 5, 2024. Congresswoman Lauren Boebert has apparently been disinvited from the Texas Youth Summit, a right-wing conference for young people. Organizers of the summit, to be held September 29-30 in a suburb of Houston, had announced Friday that Boebert would be a speaker at the event. We are excited to add firebrand Congresswoman @laurenboebert from Colorados third district to our all-star @texasyouthsummit lineup, said an Instagram post cited by Business Insider. In the full post shared by TMZ, the organizers described her as a devout Christian who seeks to honor God in all that she does. That was after it was reported that Boebert had been ejected from a theater in Denver for causing a disturbance but just before a video of her and her date, Aspen bar owner Quinn Gallagher, groping each other at the show went viral. The Instagram post is no longer available, and now Boebert has been scrubbed from all the marketing material that originally featured her, TMZ reports. The Advocate also checked the conferences various social media feeds and found no mention or image of her. Boebert, a far-right Republican, was asked to leave a performance of Beetlejuice two Sundays ago because she was vaping, singing loudly, taking photos, and generally annoying other audience members, along with Gallagher. She initially denied vaping, but its surfaced that a pregnant woman at the show asked her to cease vaping, and Boebert refused. Boebert and Gallagher wouldnt leave until theater personnel threatened to call the police. Then Friday evening, surveillance video showing Boebert groping her dates genitals and him fondling her breasts went viral on social media. Boebert hasnt specifically addressed the groping but has attempted to explain her overall conduct by saying she was simply too enthusiastic and animated. She has said she fell short of her values and attributed her behavior partly to the divorce proceedings she is going through. This all has led to widespread denunciation of Boebert as a hypocrite, given her anti-LGBTQ+ views, including her allegations that drag queens and anyone associated with the LGBTQ+ community are sexualizing children. Gallaghers bar has hosted drag shows and other LGBTQ+ events. The summit bills itself as an event that promotes principles of fiscal responsibility, free market, limited government, American Exceptionalism, and the Judeo-Christian principles this country was founded upon. Scheduled speakers include Donald Trump Jr., Kimberly Guilfoyle, Charlie Kirk, anti-trans activist Riley Gaines, anti-abortion crusader Abby Johnson, and many more. The Advocate has sought comment from summit organizers and Boebert and will update this story if we receive a response. Weve got more updates for you on Rep. Lauren Boeberts (R-Colo.) wild night out in Denver last weekend (Im sorry and/or youre welcome). Additional security footage shows Boeberts previously unidentified date grope her as she appears to touch his crotch at a performance of Beetlejuice (shortly before they were ejected), and weve now learned who that lucky man is: Quinn Gallagher, the co-owner of Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar in Aspen. According to the New York Post, Gallagher is a registered Democrat, and Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar is a gay-friendly bar that hosted a winter Wonderland Burlesque & Drag Show back in January, per an invitation advertising the event on social media. In 2020, the bar also hosted events for Aspen Gay Ski Week, according to Facebook posts unearthed by the Post. The tabloid reported that Boebert and Gallagher have been dating under the radar for months. Read more After initial reports early last week that Boebert had been removed from the Beetlejuice show for being disruptive, Boebert tried to characterize herself as the one who was wronged: She was just having fun, her press team said, at a musical thats all about fun!! Its true, I did thoroughly enjoy the AMAZING Beetlejuice at the Buell Theatre and I plead guilty to laughing and singing too loud! , she wrote in a tweet in the initial aftermath of reports of her removal. Unfortunately for her, the Buell Theater had the receipts. More from Jezebel Sign up for Jezebel's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. In 2022, Rep. Lauren Boebert won her bid for reelection by less than 600 votes. In mid-September, she was kicked out of a musical after she vaped and took photos on her phone. The incident may have hurt her chances of retaining her seat in 2024, and could cost the GOP. One wild night in Denver could cost the Republican Party its majority come 2025. On September 10, GOP Rep. Lauren Boebert was escorted out of a performance of "Beetlejuice" after officials there accused her of loudly "causing a disturbance," vaping, and taking images on her phone during the show. Boebert and her campaign initially downplayed the incident. She told her followers to see the show. "I plead guilty to laughing and singing too loud," she tweeted. But after more details began to emerge a pregnant woman seated behind Boebert said the lawmaker refused to quit vaping when asked, and surveillance footage showed her flicking off theater staff and confirmed the vaping Boebert issued a more serious and humble apology than before. "There's no perfect blueprint for going through a public and difficult divorce, which over the past few months has made for a challenging personal time for me and my entire family," Boebert said in a statement Friday. "I've tried to handle it with strength and grace as best I can." Boebert and her husband of nearly two decades are in the midst of divorce proceedings. In December 2022, her teenage son called 911 to report that his father was "throwing" him around the house. While some of her apology may stem from a sense of genuine regret and embarrassment, Boebert is usually not one to back down from poor publicity, which means there's likely another reason for why she is suddenly backtracking so thoroughly. Boebert's on thin ice with her constituents First elected to Congress in 2020, Boebert won her election in part by painting her Democratic opponent as someone with a "socialist agenda" who wanted "more government control." While freshman lawmakers generally keep a lower profile as they have fewer committee responsibilities, Boebert routinely made herself a frequent topic of conversation on Capitol Hill during her first term by live-tweeting President Joe Biden's first State of the Union, making Islamophobic comments about her colleagues, and more. Her antics didn't seem especially popular with her constituents. In 2022, two years after Boebert won her congressional seat by more than 26,500 votes, the Republican legislator narrowly retained her seat against Democratic challenger Adam Frisch by fewer than 600 total votes. Despite barely winning her reelection campaign, Boebert started her second term in office in largely the same manner she did in her first. She heckled Biden during the State of the Union as he discussed his dead son, got into a heated exchange with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene on the House floor leading to Boebert getting called a "little bitch," and said she was "tired" of the separation between church and state. Political experts at the Cook Political Report have deemed Boebert's race as a "Toss Up," meaning that "either party has a good chance of winning." As the 2024 election approaches, Boebert's likely opponent, Frisch, has been campaigning actively and raising money in his attempt to dethrone her. Voters appear to be on board. In July, Frisch's campaign reported bringing in more than $1.75 million more than Boebert. If Frisch successfully unseats Boebert, his election could very well help flip the House of Representatives in favor of the Democratic Party. Republicans only hold ten more seats in the House than Democrats, but after recently court-mandated redistricting in states like Alabama and New York, that slim majority is in peril this upcoming presidential election season. With this in mind, Boebert's earnest apology could be seen as damage control to not only save her own seat but prevent her entire party from losing control of the House. Read the original article on Business Insider ASHEVILLE An Asheville man awaiting trial in the Buncombe County Detention Facility has filed a lawsuit against the county jail alleging a detention officer assaulted him, and his colleagues covered it up. A district court judges ruling now gives Marcus Singleton until Sept. 28 to file a new complaint, or his legal pursuit will be quashed before it ever begins. Singleton, 37, filed the lawsuit in July pro se, meaning he is representing himself. It was received by the court July 21. Singleton is accusing former Buncombe County detention officer Michael Cavallaro of physically and verbally assaulting him in his cell Dec 27, 2022. Cavallaro removed his utility belt and radio before entering Singletons cell and challenging him to an altercation, Singleton alleged. Singleton said he defended himself. Singleton also noted an incident that occurred April 27, 2023, but documentation concerning that incident was not included in the publicly available online filing. According to the lawsuit, which Singleton hand wrote on yellow legal paper and on a form for civil rights violation complaints, one of the cameras that would have captured the assault was not functional. Sgt. Johnny Clontz and Lt. Kenneth Varner cropped the footage that partially captured the altercation, the complaint alleges, only showing Singleton defending himself, not Cavallaros initial challenge. The Citizen Times reached out to Clontz for comment and could not reach Varner for comment. Personnel records obtained Sept. 1 by a Citizen Times public records request show that Clontz and Varner still work at the jail. Cavallaro resigned Aug. 11. He works security at the Rathbun House, which provides temporary housing for family members and caregivers visiting people undergoing medical treatment in Asheville, the organization's website shows as of Sept. 15. Cavallaro worked for the jail for 22 months. When reached by the Citizen Times, he declined to comment. Buncombe County Sheriffs Office spokesperson Aaron Sarver declined the Citizen Times request for video and any documentation of the altercation, saying that it is not public record, according to state law. Sheriff Quentin Miller told the Citizen Times that he was aware of the lawsuit but declined to comment on legal matters. Sarver also declined to comment for the same reason. Solitary confinement Singleton was ultimately disciplined for this altercation. He told the Citizen Times in a video call that directly after the incident, he was placed in solitary confinement, and ultimately spent about 60 days between solitary confinement and pre-isolation. In the lawsuit he wrote that Clontz recommended 50 days of administrative segregation and sanction time as punishment. Administrative segregation removes a detainee from the general population into an isolated cell while a disciplinary matter pends, according to a North Carolina Department of Correction Handbook. Sarver could not fulfill Citizen Times' request for the jail policy by press time. Singleton Complaint by Mitchell Black on Scribd This embedded content is not available in your region. Singleton said he requested an advocate for his hearing concerning the incident but was denied. He wrote in the lawsuit that his time in solitary confinement induced anxiety attacks. Singleton is awaiting trial on 15 mostly drug-related charges; some of which are felonies. He was initially booked Dec. 1, 2021, court documents indicate. His bond is $220,000. Singletons criminal attorney, Ted Besen, told the Citizen Times in an Aug. 29 text that he did not know anything about Singletons civil suit. Shane Brown, the owner of Shane Brown Bail Bonds, which has an Asheville location, told the Citizen Times Sept. 15 that individuals seeking to pay bond typically need to pay between 0% and 15% of their bond depending on their charge, location and if they have a cosigner. Singleton told the Citizen Times Sept. 15 that he doesn't have the funds to pay for his bond. If Singleton were to pay the maximum portion of his bond, he would pay $33,000. Singleton is requesting $750,000 in relief for the emotional distress he endured and for all his ongoing medical expenses to be covered. Singleton would like the state department to investigate the facility. He said in the July legal filing that he had still not received medical treatment for his anxiety but told the Citizen Times Sept. 15 that he is now receiving Xanax. A cell in the Buncombe County Detention Facility December 2, 2021. Not all of Singletons lawsuit is available in the online federal court documentation system. Some of the documentation he refers to in the suit is not present in the online records system, because they are sealed. Another officer, Daniel Holmes, is cited as a defendant in the suit. None of the unsealed documentation explains his role. Holmes also still works at the jail, according to personnel files obtained Sept. 1. The Citizen Times reached out to Holmes for comment. No additional charges have been brought against Singleton for his role in the altercation. Deadline to refile lawsuit United States District Judge Robert J. Conrad Jr. dismissed the case without prejudice in an Aug. 29 order, giving Singleton until Sep. 28 to file an amended complaint. Conrad refers to documents in an attachment to the legal filing, which is not available to public viewing because it is under seal. His courtroom deputy, Brittany Lynch, told the Citizen Times Sept. 15 that the judge made his ruling based on the full 66-page filing. Singleton Order by Mitchell Black on Scribd This embedded content is not available in your region. According to Conrads order, Singleton brought multiple unrelated claims against unrelated defendants. He also notes that Singleton, who sued officers in their official capacity, failed to bring an official capacity claim because he did not allege that any official policy was the moving force behind any constitutional injury. Conrad instructed Singleton to succinctly and clearly allege the factual basis for each claim and which constitutional right(s) he contends were violated by which conduct. He also told the clerk to send Singleton a blank civil rights violation complaint form. Singleton told the Citizen Times he intends to send out the new filing Sept. 18. Jail employees did not deliver Conrad's Aug. 29 order to Singleton until Sept. 7, Singleton said. More: NC's deadliest jail: Buncombe leaders call for low-barrier homeless shelter, reforms More: State's deadliest jail: Buncombe has worst death rate, Citizen Times investigation shows More: Behind the Citizen Times investigation to determine Buncombe has state's deadliest jail Conrads order also conjectured that Singleton may also be claiming that the altercation caused him to suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, but Singletons medical records indicate that he was diagnosed with PTSD prior to the event. These documents are sealed. Singleton told the Citizen Times Sept. 15 that he was not trying to say that his PTSD was a consequence of the time in solitary confinement, but that his time in isolation aggravated his condition. The Citizen Times previously reported that the Buncombe County Detention Facility was the deadliest jail in North Carolina from 2008 to 2021 of the ten largest detention systems in the state. I want the public to know what is going on. This is inhumane. They completely violate my rights, Singleton said. This is taxpayer money thats paying for these people to come in here and do this. Its not right. This article was updated to clarify that the 2022 Citizen Times investigation found that the county jail was the deadliest of the 10 largest detention systems in the state. Do you have an experience in the Buncombe County jail that you want to share? We want to learn about it. Email Mitchell Black at mblack@citizentimes.com. Please help support local journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times. This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Man awaiting trial claims Buncombe jail violated his civil rights Police and sanitation vehicles block access to 1st Street ahead of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023. (AP Photo / Bryan Woolston) UNITED NATIONS (AP) The commitments were far-reaching and ambitious. Among them: End extreme poverty and hunger. Ensure every child on Earth gets a quality secondary education. Achieve gender equality. Make significant inroads in tackling climate change. Create universal access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all. And achieve all of this by 2030. Halfway to that goal, progress is lagging badly and in some cases going backward. At a two-day summit that began Monday, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres tried to kick-start action to achieve the 17 goals adopted by world leaders in 2015, which developing countries in particular consider crucial to closing the widening inequality gap between the worlds rich and poor countries. He told leaders in the crowded General Assembly hall they made a promise to build a world of health, progress and opportunity for all a promise to leave no one behind, and a promise to pay for it. General Assembly President Dennis Francis told the assembled leaders that the fact that we are lagging in our promise cannot be the death knell for our blueprint to banish poverty from our societies, protect and preserve our planet, and to ensure prosperity for all. Instead, he said, bold and transformative action must be prioritized. Leaders from the 193 U.N. member nations then adopted a 10-page political declaration by consensus. It recognizes that the goals are in peril and expresses alarm that progress is either moving too slowly or regressing to pre-2015 levels. It reaffirms more than a dozen times, in different ways, leaders commitment to achieve the SDGs, or sustainable development goals, reiterating their individual importance. How can this be done in the next seven years? A DECLARATION SHORT ON SPECIFICS The leaders have committed to accelerating action. But the declaration theyre working with is short on specifics. At Saturdays start of an SDG Action Weekend, Guterres reviewed for activists the grim findings in a U.N. report in July. On Monday, he did it again, saying that only 15% of some 140 specific targets to achieve the 17 goals are on track. Many are going in the wrong direction. At the current rate, the report said, 575 million people will still be living in extreme poverty and 84 million children wont even be going to elementary school in 2030 and it will take 286 years to reach equality between men and women. The SDGs need a global rescue plan, the U.N. chief said. He called the summit the moment for governments to come to the table with concrete plans and proposals to accelerate progress. It isnt just governments that need to step up, Guterres said. He urged activists as well as the business community, scientists, academics, innovators, women and young people to join in working to achieve the goals. U.S. First Lady Jill Biden echoed the secretary-general at a reception Sunday evening organized by the U.N. childrens agency, UNICEF, for global champions of education. she said progress on achieving the SDGs looks steep. But she said the United States will continue to be a partner will you every step of the way. As an educator for 39 years, she urged every countrys leader to invest in children, saying they will help us build a more peaceful, stable world. A PLAN TO CLEAR OBSTACLES FROM THE PATH Guterres said the most important initiative to rescue the overall plan is the proposal of an SDG stimulus, which aims to offset challenging market conditions faced by developing countries. It calls for immediate action in three areas: tackling the high cost of debt and rising risks of debt distress; massively scaling up affordable long-term financing for development, especially by public and multilateral banks; expanding contingency financing to countries in need. Guterres told Mondays opening session he was deeply encouraged by the political declaration, especially its commitment to improving developing countries access to the fuel required for SDG progress: finance. The U.N. chief said it also includes a call to reform the outdated and dysfunctional international financial system and to change the business model so multilateral; development banks, like the World Bank, can massively leverage private finance at affordable rates to benefit developing countries. A February U.N. report on the SDG Stimulus said debt is battering the economies of many developing countries. It said that as of last November, 37 of the worlds 69 poorest countries were either at high risk or already in debt distress, while one in four middle-income countries, which contain the majority of the extreme poor, were at high risk of fiscal crisis. There are narrow rays of hope. Guterres said he was encouraged that at the recent meeting of the G20, the worlds 20 leading economies welcomed the SDG Stimulus. And he said hes hopeful that the political declaration to be adopted by leaders on Monday will lead to major action. The declaration says leaders will push forward the stimulus plan to tackle the high cost of debt and rising risks of debt distress, to enhance support to developing countries and to massively scale up affordable long-term financing for development and expand contingency financing to countries in need. Whether those administrative promises and the momentum of a big week at the United Nations will translate into actual progress, though, remains as before deeply uncertain. ___ Edith M. Lederer, chief U.N. correspondent for The Associated Press, has been covering international affairs for more than 50 years. At least 20 people - mostly mine workers - were killed in South Africas Limpopo province on Sunday after a bus they were traveling in erupted in flames following a head-on collision with a truck, state media reported. The Limpopo transport department said on Monday 20 people were confirmed dead on the scene while two others died at the hospital. It is not immediately known how many people were on the bus and if there were any survivors. The vehicles collided on a major road between Musina town and Venetia mine in the northern Limpopo province, the transport agency added. Murray and Roberts company, the employer of the deceased mine workers, said 18 of its staff who were traveling to the Venetia mine were killed in the accident, citing preliminary reports. The Venetia mine is South Africas largest diamond producer. Videos from the scene of the bus crash posted on social media showed bodies lying scattered on the ground and a plume of black smoke coming from the bus. Limpopos transport department said it will visit the mine to get a full report regarding the accident. This is the second bus crash involving huge casualties in the Limpopo province this year. In February, around 20 people were killed in a head-on crash between a bus and a cash-in-transit van, officials said at the time. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Actor Jason Sudeikis, center, walks a picket line with striking writers and actors in New York on July 14. (Bebeto Matthews / Associated Press) To the editor: The California Chamber of Commerce, the mouthpiece for businesses big and small, suffers from myopia, as displayed by its opposition to a bill allowing workers on strike for more than two weeks to receive unemployment benefits. The $5,850 per quarter for each striking worker would be spent at businesses food markets, phone service providers, utilities, banks, landlords and insurance companies, and if theres anything left over from that, maybe a candy bar to try to lift their spirits. If anything, the chamber should focus its agenda on the issue of state-sponsored business subsidies, which it will never do, instead of some poor soul with no work income trying to live on $450 per week. Buz Wolf, Studio City .. To the editor: People buy more at lower prices. This simple principle, widely known as demand theory, is highly predictive. Most obviously, it explains why retailers discount prices to sell unwanted inventory. Gov. Gavin Newsom now faces a decision with strong demand theory implications: He must decide whether to sign Senate Bill 799, which would allow striking workers to receive unemployment insurance benefits. Such benefits would reduce the cost of striking. Demand theory predicts that would lead to longer and more frequent strikes. Strikes are bad for everyone: Employers lose production, employees lose wages, vendors who sell goods and services to striking employees lose business, and the state loses tax revenues. Although many people may be sympathetic to the plight of striking workers, the bills unintended consequences would be severe. Newsom should veto SB 799. Larry Harris, Los Angeles .. To the editor: I understand the reasons behind the actors' and writers' strike in Hollywood. But how long can they hold out? The studios have deep pockets. They don't seem to be in a rush to settle. Sure, there won't be a new season of shows, but does this really matter to the studios? TV stations have been showing reruns since I was a child. Today, viewers binge on Netflix and other providers with the shows they love. The longer the strike goes on, the more viewers are finding other ways to watch the shows they love, to change channels to something new, and to try shows they've never seen. This is like the Disney-Spectrum fight that made a lot viewers find other ways to watch television. Don't think viewers can't work their way around this. It's the actors and writers who are going to continue suffering. Virginia Noyes, Glendale This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The excess of government is proof of why we need our constitution It is evident that our constitutional rights are under constant attack by the forces of big government. One only needs to read the recent news to realize how our rights are hanging by a thread and are too often dependent on the decisions of unelected judges. Not long ago, we found out from Twitter emails made public by Elon Musk upon his acquisition of that company that government agencies and the Biden Administration were leaning heavily on social media companies to censor content that went against their narrative on topics such as COVID-19. Dwight Weidman Subsequent to those revelations, the attorneys general from Missouri and Louisiana sued the Biden administration over its heavy-handed behavior with the social media platforms. As a result of the lawsuit, U.S. District Court Judge Terry Doughty issued a preliminary injunction against the Biden administration stating that it had violated the First Amendment in forcing social media to censor content. Appropriately enough, the injunction was issued on July 4. The case then moved to the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, who last week largely upheld Doughtys injunction. In its decision, the Fifth Circuit stated, Defendants, and their employees and agents, shall take no actions, formal or informal, directly or indirectly, to coerce or significantly encourage social-media companies to remove, delete, suppress, or reduce, including through altering their algorithms, posted social-media content containing protected free speech. That includes, but is not limited to, compelling the platforms to act, such as by intimating that some form of punishment will follow a failure to comply with any request, or supervising, directing, or otherwise meaningfully controlling the social-media companies decision-making processes. This was a major victory for our First Amendment rights, but it is key to remember that the governments justification for censoring free speech was a so-called public health emergency in which unelected government bureaucrats were issuing authoritarian edicts on questionable measures in response to COVID-19. Many of those measures are now under close scrutiny, with new studies showing, for instance, that mask mandates made no difference in fighting COVID, according to the Chicago Sun-Times article. Dont expect government, especially that part controlled by the Democrats, to take the public health emergency arrow out of their quiver. Just this week, the Democratic governor of New Mexico, Michelle Lujan Grisham, issued a public health emergency order, stating Today I issued a 30-day ban on the open & concealed carrying of guns in Albuquerque and Bernalillo County. Gun violence is killing between 2 and 3 children every month in NM - every single one of these deaths is unconscionable and they must stop. In other words, the governor is attempting to strip away the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens in response to the out-of-control violence that the soft-on-crime and anti-police policies she and her party have created. The governor went on to say that no constitutional right nor my oath is absolute claiming she has the power to suspend either when she declares an emergency. The good news is that Lujan-Grisham and the left may have poked the bear once too often in this case, with her actions bringing on immediate and widespread outrage, and a lawsuit from the National Association of Gun Rights, as well as calls for her impeachment. Her action was so blatantly illegal that even liberal Democrat Ted Lieu, U.S. representative from California, condemned it, tweeting the order violates the U.S. Constitution," and that No state in the union can suspend the federal Constitution, and that there is no such thing as a state public health emergency exception to the U.S. Constitution. David Hogg, who survived the Parkland mass shooting and has advocated for gun control, agreed, tweeting, I support gun safety but there is no such thing as a state public health emergency exception to the U.S. Constitution. Whats next? There has already been talk in leftist circles about declaring a climate emergency to control what appliances and vehicles you can have, how much you can travel, or how you set your home thermostat. When it comes to the totalitarian left, there is no limit to their hunger for power. One thing that Lujan-Grisham said in her news conference made sense, but not in the way she intended. She stated, As I said yesterday, the time for standard measures has passed. I couldnt agree more. Its time to take off the gloves in dealing with the left. Dwight Weidman is a resident of Greene Township and is a graduate of Shepherd University. He is retired from the United States Department of Defense, where his career included assignments In Europe, Asia, and Central America. He has been in leadership roles for the Republican Party in two states, most recently serving two terms as Chairman of the Franklin County Republican Party. He has been an Amateur Radio Operator since 1988, getting his first license in Germany, and is a past volunteer with both Navy and Army MARS, Military Auxiliary Radio Service, and is also an NRA-certified firearms instructor. In his spare time, he dabbles in genealogy and learning new languages. This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: Democrats show how power-hungry they are with New Mexico gun ban The 2023 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference will be held in Beijing from Oct.18-21. Spanning an expansive exhibition area of 35,000 square meters, the conference will feature 10 exhibition areas, an unmanned (automatic) driving test area, and dozens of concurrent interactive experience activities. This global event places a strong emphasis on the future transportation system, with a particular focus on intelligent connected vehicles (ICVs) and self-driving technologies. To provide you with a sneak peek into this exciting domain, we'll delve into some of the world's leading autonomous vehicle technology companies. # Pony.ai [Photo: VCG] Based in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou and Silicon Valley in the United States, Pony.ai, in collaboration with Toyota, is expected to establish a new venture for autonomous driving development within the year with an estimated investment of over 1 billion yuan. Little Priest Tribal College President Manoj Patil (Photo/Little Priest Tribal College Little Priest Tribal College (LPTC) celebrated its 25th anniversary of dedicated service to the educational needs of students hailing from both the Winnebago, Nebraska community and beyond since its inception in 1996. The event was commemorated on Friday, Sept. 15, 2023. Throughout its journey, LPTC has expanded its offerings to encompass an impressive array of 12 degree programs and, in the academic year 2022-2023, it achieved a historic enrollment milestone. LPTC President Manoj Patil says the anniversary celebration was an opportunity to reflect on its mission inspired by Chief Little Priest, the last war chief of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, whose vision for the Tribes people was to have access to higher education. Never miss Indian Countrys biggest stories and breaking news. Click here to sign up to get our reporting sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Throughout this quarter-century, our institution has wholeheartedly embraced the values of respect, integrity, and self-reliance cherished by the Tribe. Our success is a testament to the application of these values to every student who enters our doors. When we speak of serving our community, our actions substantiate it, as evidenced by the diverse student body we serve. Our college caters to more than 70 percent Native students and nearly 30 percent non-Native students. Patil said. We are ecstatic to celebrate this significant milestone with our community, and we are enthusiastic about further expanding our educational resources to enable our students to attain the academic excellence envisioned by Chief Little Priest, Patil continued. Miskoo Petite, LPTC Board Chair is looking at the next 25 years and says that Our Tribal communities have historically suffered the effects of poverty and lack of opportunity. Little Priest Tribal College has truly stepped into its purpose and evolved into an institution that is strengthening the possibilities, so our children, families, and clans have direct access to relevant, state-of-the-art programs. We intend to keep growing strong, educated people. About the Author: "Native News Online is one of the most-read publications covering Indian Country and the news that matters to American Indians, Alaska Natives and other Indigenous people. Reach out to us at editor@nativenewsonline.net. " Contact: news@nativenewsonline.net As a Salem local, I have a front-row seat to the tourist crowds visiting town ahead of Halloween. Travelers should prepare for packed streets, long lines, and zero available parking in October. Tourism is great for our economy, but visitors should do their best to shop at locally owned stores. I regularly visited Salem for 15 years before my family moved to the storied Massachusetts town in 2021. I prefer to visit Salem Common around midnight, when the daytime crowds have dispersed. Eryn DiPhilippo The first time I experienced Salem, Massachusetts, over 15 years ago, I came as a tourist. The 45,000-person town became so near and dear to me that I never stopped returning. It didn't take long for my husband to fall in love with Salem as well, so we decided to get a Witch City address of our own in 2021. The town, most famous as the backdrop of the 1692 witch trials, draws a huge influx of visitors every October, when the town holds its annual month-long Haunted Happenings Festival. As a relatively new Salem resident, I see many newcomers arrive ready to dive into witchcraft and explore the historic streets without doing proper research. Here's what I think tourists should know before coming to Salem during the busiest month of the year. Hotels and activities sell out months in advance, so book your itinerary as early as possible. Crowds gather to watch a street performer in Salem, Massachusetts. Eryn DiPhilippo This October, Salem celebrates its 40th Haunting Happenings Festival, one of the largest Halloween celebrations in the world. It's also one of the busiest Octobers that Witch City has ever seen, with over 100,000 people flooding the streets on a single day. Given the size of the crowds, it's not the best time to whip out the old broomstick and fly in on a whim. If you have a list of things you'd like to do and see during your visit, you must plan ahead. Most ticketed attractions, tours, and events are sold out through the rest of this month. And many travelers who plan on visiting Salem in October 2023 have already booked accommodations, as some hotels can sell out a year in advance. Salem's weather can be unpredictable in October, so expect the unexpected and pack layers. When you walk into downtown Salem, you see a banner for Haunted Happenings. Eryn DiPhilippo Visitors often ask what to pack for a trip to Salem in October, but Massachusetts' weather can be very unpredictable in the fall. Don't be put off by the extended forecast. The temperature can be 74 degrees Fahrenheit one day and 47 degrees Fahrenheit the next. We've had some Octobers with beach days and others with snow storms. Nothing is impossible, but Salem is gorgeous in any weather, especially in October. Pack your chicest witchy attire, fall flannels, fun costumes, layers, and umbrellas. If you forget an item, don't worry. There are plenty of places to shop in town. Thanks to the town's uneven streets, the wrong footwear has the potential to ruin your experience. People line up outside of Ascend Get Lifted, a gift shop that specializes in intuitive readings and energetic services. Eryn DiPhilippo You'll be walking a lot on Salem's beautiful brick and cobblestone streets, so regardless of the forecast, the most important thing to remember is comfortable footwear. Your shoes have the potential to make or break your time (and your ankles). You won't find open parking in October, so don't drive into Salem unless you already have a guaranteed spot to leave your car. There are parking signs all over Salem that look like this one on Winter Street. Eryn DiPhilippo If you ignore the parking signs around the city, which are seemingly everywhere you look, you will get ticketed or towed. Salem is an old city, and most of the streets weren't built to accommodate any automobiles at all. The downtown district has very limited metered spots, garages, and lots, and any that are available get claimed very early each October morning. If you do decide to drive, be aware that October traffic can turn a simple trip to the store into an hours-long ordeal. Instead of circling around for a spot and wasting your precious time in Witch City, look into alternative transportation. You can use rideshare apps or take the bus, train, or ferry into town. Local guides work hard to share Salem's history with outsiders, so be respectful toward them. Take a tour from an expert guide, like Sarah from Bewitched After Dark Walking Tours. Eryn DiPhilippo Salem has a rich and devastating history, with its main claim to fame being the witch trials of 1692. In my opinion, the best way to learn as much as you can in one visit is to take a walking tour. Sign up for a tour from a reputable, Salem-based company. We have so many knowledgeable tour guides in town who have chosen to study and share a wealth of information with visitors. Please be respectful toward them and our beloved city. Don't show up drunk or crash a tour on the streets. It's already hard enough for guides to navigate through the herds of people with a large group following them, so don't make it any more difficult for them or the people engaged and listening. Salem's food and drink scene is spectacular, but prepare to wait upwards of two hours for a table in October. Salem's food, including the burger from Ledger, is exceptional. Eryn DiPhilippo Salem has so many delicious bites and cocktails, but if you visit in October, you're going to have to wait a long time to try them. Our favorite Salem haunts are open all 12 months, but their managers and staff members have to work even more tirelessly in October to accommodate much larger crowds. So put your name in, go walk around, and come back when it's your turn. We recently waited two hours to dine at one of our favorite restaurants, Opus. We used the restaurant's online system, which allowed us to watch the line from our phones while taking in the town's sites. If you want a quicker option, head to the food trucks at Salem Common or grab a pizza at the local mall. Regardless of where you eat in October, tip your servers well. The odds are that they're exhausted and doing all they can. Many of the downtown shops are locally owned, giving tourists an opportunity to give back to the Salem community. Tourists lined up to enter Vampfangs, a store for fangs and contacts. Eryn DiPhilippo Many of the stores and businesses located downtown are locally owned, and one of my favorite parts of living in Salem has been building relationships with business owners and their staff. Go into as many as you can while you're here. You may have to wait a bit, as some of the stores are small, but they're worth the wait. Within the stores are pieces of Salem's magic that you can take home and you have the chance to support our local economy as you do it. Buskers and street performers are working professionals who put in long days during October, so tip them if you like what you see. Borah Brewington Snaggletooth XIII is a well-known performer in Salem. Eryn DiPhilippo In downtown Salem, you'll come across buskers dressed in amazing costumes who pose for photos with tourists. Many of the performers have other full-time jobs and work long weekend days to support themselves and their loved ones all while making us smile. They provide an amazing service to Salem, so don't skip the tip jars. If you don't carry cash, you can find most of them on Venmo. Although some outsiders view Salem as a seasonal amusement park, many people live here year-round. Some of Salem's best architecture and most charming homes are tucked away in side streets. Eryn DiPhilippo Some tourists treat Salem like a movie set, but people live here year-round. The homes you see are occupied by real humans. Please be respectful of their property. The pumpkins in front of homes aren't up for grabs, and private hallways aren't for your sitting pleasure. I recently learned about a visitor who entered a Salem resident's hallway for a photo op. You shouldn't do that, but what you should do is walk outside of the downtown area and into some breathtaking side streets, walking through crunchy leaves the entire way. Some of the most gorgeous homes I've seen rarely have many people nearby. So, take a break from the crowds and soak in Salem's architecture. At some point, your patience will likely be tested due to the crowds and lengthy waits, but do your best to remain calm and kind. People filling Essex Street in Salem, Massachusetts, in October. Eryn DiPhilippo You're going to need patience if you decide to brave the October crowds. Salem is experiencing a massive wave of tourists this year. Remember that we're not a seasonal amusement park. We're a small city where people live year-round. Please be kind to those around you, have fun, be safe, show our city respect, and most of all, be patient. Read the original article on Insider A local high school principal slept on the schools roof Sunday night, according to the districts Facebook page. >>A great contagious spirit; Local women come together for exercise, friendship, fellowship Brookville High School students have been competing to raise money for the Pink Ribbon Good of Dayton. Their principal, Jason Stephan, challenged them to raise over $1,000 in a week, and if they did, he promised to sleep on the roof of his office. My wife and my kids helped me get the ladder, we got it up here and then they took the ladder home so they dont want dad home tonight. So Im up here all night long, Stephan said. Students were able to exceed the goal and raised $2,229 in one week. I just, I think it really just, you know doing this was a thank you to our kids and our community for all their work over the last week it really makes a difference to our community, our friends, neighbors, loved ones who are battling cancer and this is just a small token of what were willing to do to help our community out here in Brookville and throughout the Miami Valley, Stephan said. LOGAN COUNTY, Okla. (KFOR) A Logan County Deputy is out of the hospital after a Saturday night suspected DUI crash near Sooner Road and Charter Oak, according to officials. | Family begs for help finding missing Pottawatomie woman > Freddie Watkins of Oklahoma City was booked into Logan County Jail early Sunday morning for DUI causing great bodily injury, driving with a canceled, suspended, or revoked license, and failing to maintain security. The Logan County deputy on duty who was hit has not been named. Logan County Sheriff Damon Devereaux told KFOR that the deputy is doing okay but that he will more than likely need surgery. KFOR has reached out to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol for more information and will update when it comes in. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. A London community protested outside a local beauty supply store after a video of the owner getting into a physical altercation with a Black woman went viral. According to Shine My Crown, the incident occurred on Monday when Edilenny Dotel went to Peckham Hair and Cosmetics to request a refund. When store owner Sohail Sindho denied her request, the two exchanged words, causing the situation to escalate. When Dotel left he establishment, Sindho blocked the doorway because he believed the teenager attempted to walk out without paying for new products. Dotel denied the allegations and said the items in her bag were the same items she had upon entering the store. The viral footage begins with Sindho pushing the 18-year-old away from the door with his left hand grabbing her neck and his right hand grabbing her right shoulder. After a few seconds, Dotel hits him in the head with a small basket in self-defense. He then puts both hands around the girls neck, choking her, as they spin around in a circle, knocking hair off the wall. Protest in South London after woman is choked and assaulted in Peckham Hair & Cosmetics. The woman apparently went to the store to get a refund on a defective product but was denied by the Asian store owner so she took a replacement off the shelf and tried to leave. pic.twitter.com/scEQ0zPdbA I Am (@ibullydabully) September 14, 2023 Im gonna call the police can be heard twice in the background from the woman recording the video. When Dotel sees her filming, she thanks her and asks her to call the police multiple times as she tries to break free. Local citizens were outraged by Dotels treatment and reacted by gathering in the streets outside Peckham Hair and Cosmetics. Footage from protest outside 'Peckham Hair & Cosmetics' in south London, following an incident where a Black woman was assaulted inside the store. : @Sistah_Space pic.twitter.com/fiYA2NgLVO Nadine White . (@Nadine_Writes) September 12, 2023 Due to community concerns and an ongoing investigation, government officials shut down the store. In a statement, Detective Chief Superintendent Seb Adjei-Addoh addressed the incident while reassuring the community that his team of police are available for support. I would like to thank local people for their patience as we work to establish the full circumstances around the allegations made, the statement began. We continue to examine various clips of footage that depict small sections of the wider incident and are working to establish what offenses were committed and by whom. He added, My officers will be patrolling Rye Lane today to provide reassurance to the community I know that this incident will cause concern and I urge anyone who is worried to speak with their local policing team or with officers on patrol. A sign that reads CasaLuz can be seen inside of CasaLuz, which provides to the Hispanic/Latinx community in Shelby County such as legal support, advocacy, and housing assistance in Memphis, Tenn., August 28, 2023. CasaLuz's office is normally busy with women and children, receiving counseling services and meeting with legal advocates but on this particular day, the power to their building was out. A tower that feeds power into the building had fallen the day before, leaving it without air conditioning and lights. At the front door, Ines Negrette, executive director and founder of CasaLuz, saw a woman pull into the parking lot with her child in tow and immediately kicked into action. The woman had an appointment, but due to the lack of power, all appointments were canceled. Negrette explained that the woman received a phone call, notifying her of the cancelation and that the appointment would be rescheduled. Even without power, CasaLuz's mission working to reduce domestic violence and related crimes in Memphis' Spanish-speaking community didn't stop. Memphis's Hispanic and Latino population has seen significant growth since CasaLuz was founded in 2015. According to the 2020 U.S. Census, the Hispanic and Latino population has grown to 8.4% in Shelby County. The domestic violence advocacy center provides its services completely in Spanish and is dedicated to putting culture first for its Hispanic and Latinx community members. CasaLuz is also the only domestic violence support provider in Memphis and Shelby County that services only the Hispanic and Latinx communities. CasaLuz uses the gender-neutral term "Latinx" to describe the organization's mission. The waiting area for children while their parents are in the next room disclosing their situation to advocates, can be seen inside of CasaLuz, which provides to the Hispanic/Latinx community in Shelby County such as legal support, advocacy, and housing from an undisclosed location in Memphis, Tenn., August 28, 2023. The cultural aspect of the services CasaLuz provides is also important, Negrette said. During the COVID-19 pandemic, CasaLuz still provided restricted in-person services as a dedication to putting culture and language at the heart of their services. CasaLuz provides legal orders of protection to rent assistance for their clients When a client first calls the CasaLuz office, an assessment is done over the phone by one of Negrette's staff and an in-person appointment is made. Negrette said the first appointment can last hours, as this is sometimes the first time a client has opened up about their abuse. All legal work is done in-house, and phone calls to the police are also performed by the legal advocates who work at CasaLuz. Legal advocates will go to court with the victim and a partner attorney, they also file protective orders and go to the police station to receive the paperwork. Communication between the legal advocates and the victim is all done in Spanish, one way CasaLuz is dedicated to putting culture and language first, Negrette said. The advocates can also connect clients to other services like medical services where CasaLuz knows that there are staff members who speak Spanish. Not only are legal advocates available for clients, CasaLuz has two Latina counselors for both adults and children. The counselors provide short-term therapy for victims of domestic violence, all in Spanish. Motivational quotes can be seen inside of CasaLuz, which provides to the Hispanic/Latinx community in Shelby County such as legal support, advocacy, and housing from an undisclosed location in Memphis, Tenn., August 28, 2023. CasaLuz also has weekly support groups, and weekly classes like yoga, self-defense and English as a Second Language for all clients who use their services. The services are not restricted to female survivors of domestic abuse, men often seek out help from the organization. Negrette said because of the "macho" behavior of men in Latin American culture, it is difficult for men to come forward. She told the story of a man who sought out services from CasaLuz, and he showed up to his appointment bleeding from an injury inflicted on him by his abuser. "He told me that his wife puts some scissors on his head. It was not in deep, but it was a lot of blood," Negrette said. Motivational quotes can be seen inside of CasaLuz, which provides to the Hispanic/Latinx community in Shelby County such as legal support, advocacy, and housing from an undisclosed location in Memphis, Tenn., August 28, 2023. His wife, an American woman, began using his immigration status as a weapon against him a common occurrence in the abuse cases Negrette sees. The wife told the victim that even if the police were called, they would not believe him because he's not a citizen. The man did not want the police to be called for fear that he would be made fun of. After some encouragement, the male victim finally let Negrette call the police. Negrette stayed by the victim's side throughout the police intervention and supported him throughout the ordeal. At the end of the intervention, the police officer turned to Negrette and asked that she tell the victim that he was proud of him for coming forward. "The officer said 'Tell him that as a police officer 10 years ago, I was in the same place he is right now, and I know how difficult it is. Tell him that he made my day today,'" Negrette said. The space where clients can have group sessions can be seen inside of CasaLuz, which provides to the Hispanic/Latinx community in Shelby County such as legal support, advocacy, and housing from an undisclosed location in Memphis, Tenn., August 28, 2023. Civil Rights Act requires language services Service organizations that receive federal grants are required by the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to provide services that do not discriminate against race, color or national origin this includes providing language support and assistance. Negrette said that many organizations are not aware that they are violating this when they turn away or do not provide services to individuals because they cannot speak English and the organization does not provide an interpreter or translator. Negrette gave a presentation at the Symposium on Ending Homelessness, organized by the Coalition for the Homeless, to inform organizations that providing language support is required by law. While CasaLuz does not technically provide homelessness assistance, they often find themselves assisting those in need of housing because of domestic violence. Negrette has had her fair share of instances where housing assistance providers have denied clients because they were not proficient in English. In one instance, Negrette has been told by organizations that they do not work with immigrants because it is "too hard." When Negrette met with a civil attorney regarding this, they said it had been years since they heard that. It took months until Negrette was able to get in touch with someone within that organization, and when she finally did they asked her to provide training to the staff. An advocate's office can be seen inside of CasaLuz, which provides to the Hispanic/Latinx community in Shelby County such as legal support, advocacy, and housing from an undisclosed location in Memphis, Tenn., August 28, 2023. Federal grants keep services, in-kind donations allow for more flexibility CasaLuz's funding sources are mainly from federal grants and state grants, with the exception of some small philanthropic donations here and there. Even when the money has come close to running out, Negrette said they have still provided services to their clients. Grants from both federal and local governments come with restrictions, and that can sometimes be an issue, Negrette said. The monetary donations are non-restrictive, and they are able to make up the difference when the grant money isn't enough. "Let's say (a client's) rent is $1,000 and based on the percentage of the staff on each grant issued can cover a little bit," Negrette said. "Let's say (the grant) covers $500, we need to pay the difference." An advocate's office can be seen inside of CasaLuz, which provides to the Hispanic/Latinx community in Shelby County such as legal support, advocacy, and housing from an undisclosed location in Memphis, Tenn., August 28, 2023. The cash flow account allows CasaLuz to help victims get rental assistance when leaving abusive situations, provide food and clothing for victims and gives the organization a little "cushion" Negrette said. CasaLuz will be holding an online auction starting Oct. 1, in honor of their eight-year anniversary. The money raised will be used to make up the difference between grant funding. Brooke Muckerman covers Shelby County Government for The Commercial Appeal. She can be reached at brooke.muckerman@commercialappeal.com and followed on Twitter/X @BrookeMuckerman. This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: CasaLuz Memphis: a look inside the group helping Latino domestic abuse survivors Authorities will be offering a $250,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons who shot and killed a Los Angeles County sheriffs deputy as he sat inside his patrol car, they announced Sunday. Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer, 30, was found unconscious by a civilian in his patrol car around 6 p.m. Saturday near the sheriffs station in Palmdale, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department. Palmdale is about 60 miles north of Los Angeles. The deputy, who was in uniform and on duty when he was shot, was pronounced dead at a local hospital, according to Los Angeles Sheriff Robert Luna. The killing of LA County Sheriff's Department Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer is believed to be targeted, officials say. - LA County Sheriff's Department It should be unacceptable to everybody who lives in this community and really, communities across the country, that somebody would attack a deputy sheriff in that manner, Luna said at a Sunday news conference. Its absolutely outrageous. The County of Los Angeles Board of Supervisors is expected to approve a $100,000 reward this week. That amount was matched by the City of Palmdale, and the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs added $50,000. Its one of the highest ones Ive seen, Luna said of the reward. But Im challenging peoples character out there, to find this absolutely unacceptable and come forward. No suspect description was provided and its unknown who opened fire on the deputy. Video that Luna said was widely circulated Saturday night showed Clinkunbroomers patrol car and a vehicle of interest described as a 2006 to 2012 dark gray Toyota Corolla driving next to the officer. The LA County Sheriffs Department issued a bulletin Sunday night with photos of a vehicle captured on surveillance video near where Clinkunbroomer was fatally shot. A law enforcement source told CNN the vehicle is believed to be used by the suspect in the shooting. The department is asking the public to come forward if they have video that may have captured the shooting. Look at your video and make sure that you didnt capture anything that could be the missing puzzle to apprehending the suspect, Luna said. I beg you. Somebody has information. Please make things right. Rich Pippin, president of the deputy sheriffs association, referred to Clinkunbroomers murder as an attack on the law enforcement profession. It was attack on the people, the very people to protect you and your loved ones, Pippin said during Sundays news conference. This was an attack on all of us. Authorities also said Sunday they have not yet identified a motive. The sheriff has said it appears to have been a targeted shooting. I think it was a targeted act based on what we know now, but were still in the extremely early stages of this investigation, Luna said. He added, It could have been just the fact that he was representing the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department as one of our employees. We dont know. He was just driving down the street and for no apparent reason and were still looking into the specific reasons somebody decided to shoot and murder him. Im assuming at this point, because he was in uniform. Luna said. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna speaks to the media after the fatal shooting of Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer. - KCBS/KCAL Clinkunbroomer, who transferred to the Palmdale sheriffs station in 2018, had been with the department for eight years and was serving as a field training officer. Our deputy was a devoted family member and a cherished community member, Luna said. He was cowardly shot while working tirelessly to serve our community this evening. His father and grandfather both served in the sheriffs department, Luna said. He had just gotten engaged four days ago. He was just starting his life, the sheriff said. Luna said Ryan was loved and adored. Service was running through his veins. He embodied the values of bravery, selflessness and was committed to justice, Luna said in a Facebook post. Our deputy was a devoted family member and a cherished community member. Saturdays shooting comes three years after two Los Angeles deputies were shot ambush-style at a train station while sitting in their patrol vehicle. Surveillance video from the incident showed a gunman walking up to the passenger door of their squad car, opening fire and running away. There have been 83 ambush-style attacks on law enforcement in 2023, resulting in 101 officers shot 15 of them fatally, according to a September 5 report from the Fraternal Order of Police. CNNs Michelle Watson, Andy Rose and Lechelle Benken contributed to this report For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Texas L.t Gov. Dan Patrick hands off the second article of impeachment in the trial of Attorney General Ken Paxton at the Texas Capitol on Saturday, Sep. 16, 2023. Credit: Aaron E. Martinez/Pool via American-Statesman Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick requested a full financial audit of the impeachment proceedings of Attorney General Ken Paxton on Monday, making good on a vow he delivered after Paxton was acquitted of all impeachment charges in the Texas Senate. In a letter sent to State Auditor Lisa Collier, Patrick requested that her office immediately begin to determine the total amount of expenditures, encumbrances and future unpaid obligations by the Texas House, Senate, Office of Attorney General and other all other legislative entities. The goal, Patrick wrote, is to determine the absolute total cost of the state of preparing for and conducting this trial from the beginning through its conclusion. This must detail all expenses including those for investigators, travel, food and lodging. Collier did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The state auditor is an independent governmental agency that investigates allegations of fraud and impropriety. Patricks request follows his blistering speech at the conclusion of Paxtons trial, in which he said the House and Republican Speaker Dade Phelan rammed through the first impeachment of a statewide official in Texas in over 100 years while paying no attention to the precedent that the House set in every other impeachment before. Phelan responded by accusing Patrick who presided over the Senate trial of confessing his bias and placing his contempt for the peoples House on full display. The speakers office declined to comment Monday on Patricks official audit request. Patricks Monday request is the latest development in a long-running war between the House and Senate as well as the Texas GOPs far-right and slightly-more-moderate wings that has sharply escalated since Paxtons impeachment by the House in May. The acrimony is expected to continue as lawmakers prepare for a potential special session, likely next month, over school voucher legislation that has for years been a source of conflict between the chambers. The House impeachment teams lead attorneys Dick DeGuerin and Rusty Hardin each were paid $500 an hour for their work, a rate that legal observers have noted was a steep discount given their legendary status in Texas legal circles. Its still unclear who paid for Paxtons high-profile defense team, which included well-known attorneys Tony Buzbee and Dan Cogdell. The Texas Tribune Festival is almost here! Join us Sept. 21-23 in downtown Austin for 125+ unforgettable conversations featuring nearly 300 speakers. Be there for Texas biggest politics and policy event when you buy your tickets today. Lucy Letby may have murdered three more babies according to one of the foremost witnesses in her trial. Letby, 33, became Britains worst child killer when she was convicted for the murders of seven infants and the attempted murder of six others. Yesterday, Dr Dewi Evans, a National Crime Agency-accredited expert, raised fresh concerns about the deaths of several children not part of the prosecution. Appearing on the Daily Mails Trial of Lucy Letby Podcast, he said: Initially, I looked at 32 cases and there are seven of those [which were not part of the trial] that need more scrutiny. These babies had illnesses that were life-threatening and three of them died but we need to look at them to see if they were placed in harms way as well. They were poorly so it may be impossible to show beyond reasonable doubt whether they were the victim of inflicted harm. Letby will spend the rest of her life in prison with no chance of parole. She is the fourth female defendant in British history to be the subject of a whole life order. Dr Evans told the podcast he also suspects Letby may have harmed 10 other babies. He added: I found several cases that are highly suspicious where an endotracheal tube placed in a babys throat when they need breathing support had been displaced, had come out. These tubes can come out accidentally, but for so many to come out is very, very unusual, especially in what I consider to be a good unit. I suspect these tubes were displaced intentionally. Of the 18, there could be up to ten babies who were placed in harms way. Last week, the former neo-natal nurse began an attempt to overturn her conviction. She has lodged a formal application for permission to appeal the decision by Manchester Crown Court. 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. Donald Trump s vow to seek retribution against his political opponents if he wins the 2024 election is no idle threat, argued New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman. Trump played down his oft-repeated promise to seek revenge in his interview with NBCs Kristen Welker that aired on Sundays episode of Meet the Press. Haberman, though, wasnt buying it. I think that former President Trump has been quite clear, and despite him saying to Kristen, No, no, I dont do that, in terms of seeking retribution against his enemies, to your point, he did try to do that when he was president, she said on CNNs Inside Politics. I think that people should not assume that that would not continue. The former president has been quite clear that he is looking for payback, his allies and advisers have been quite clear that he is looking for payback, she noted. I would take him seriously given that hes openly talking about eroding Justice Department independence and that norm and appointing a special prosecutor against the Bidens on day one. Trump in March told supporters at a Conservative Political Action Conference that hed be their retribution if he won back the White House. Elsewhere in Trumps interview with Welker, he dodged a question on watching the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection unfold on television, swerved on abortion policies, falsely blamed former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) for the U.S. Capitol riot and said it was my decision to challenge the 2020 election result. Watch the video here: Related... Flash UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addresses the Summit of the Group of 77 (G77) and China in Havana, Cuba, Sept. 15, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua] The two-day Summit of the Group of 77 (G77) and China concluded on Saturday with a call for more participation and say of the Global South in the global governance system. The event was attended by delegations from more than 100 countries, including over 30 heads of state and government. First established in 1964, G77 now has over 130 members, with its chairmanship rotating among member countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America based on regional principles. Being the largest multilateral coordination organization among developing countries, G77's member states account for more than 80 percent of the world's population and over two-thirds of UN member countries. China is not a member but has been supporting and cooperating with the group under the framework of "G77 and China." Stronger voice for Global South Highlighting the challenges faced by countries in the Global South, the summit underscored the need for a more balanced international order with greater attention to the Global South nations. Speaking at the summit's opening ceremony, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that the voice of the Group of 77 and China will always be essential for the UN system. Terming the group "a champion of multilateralism," Guterres called on G77 and China to "champion a system rooted in equality; champion a system ready to reverse the injustice and neglect of centuries; and champion a system that delivers for all humanity and not for the privileged." Cuban expert Ramon Pichs said that the G77 and China Havana Summit played an important role in advancing the global agenda including addressing the threat of climate change. "For developing countries, for G77 and China and Cuba, the moment to act regarding climate change is now," the expert said, adding this is a huge challenge for the development of all nations. In the final declaration of the meeting, the delegates urged international institutions to make additional efforts to support nations in the Global South in such areas as science, technology and innovation. The summit will help boost the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, noted Francisco Pichon, UN resident coordinator in Havana. "A reform to the international financial system, climate change and its funding as well as multilateralism agenda are paramount priorities for the United Nations," he said, in response to calls for more representation and a stronger voice of the Global South in the international governance system. "The unity and activism of G77 and China in international forums and debates are fundamental to advancing the legitimate aspirations of our peoples," the Cuban daily newspaper Granma said. China's contribution Since the 1990s, with more Chinese involvement under the framework of "G77 and China," the organization has been playing a more relevant role in the international arena. During his welcoming speech at the summit, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel highlighted China's efforts to promote international cooperation. "The Global Development Initiative promoted by Chinese President Xi Jinping is an inclusive and coherent proposal in keeping with a just and equitable new international order," he said. Citing the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative as an example, President of the Union of the Comoros and Chairperson of the African Union Azali Assoumani said at the summit that China is aimed at creating a balanced and inclusive scenario based on cooperation with all. Echoing these leaders' words, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro recalled that during the COVID-19 pandemic, China helped Venezuela acquire medicines and COVID-19 vaccines to tackle the emergency. "I feel impressed with the scientific, social and technological achievements reached by China," said Maduro, adding China can help G77 nations increase access to modern technology. "China has developed different initiatives that are related in one way or the other with the aims of the group," Jose Ramon Cabanas, director of the International Policy Research Center of Cuba, told Xinhua. Cabanas added that the impressive performance of the Chinese economy boosts the economic and social relations between China and G77. China gets closer to Asian, African, and Latin American countries "not to impose sanctions, but to contribute to progress and the wellbeing of all," Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega said, calling China a partner "with the will to help and express its solidarity." Unlike other global powers, the relationship between China and G77 is based on respect for self-determination, solidarity, and cooperation, said Eduardo Regalado, a senior researcher at the International Policy Research Center of Cuba. "China has been very active in promoting a fairer economic and political order in keeping with the interests of developing countries. It has maintained a systematic and consistent policy supporting the multilateral bloc," he added. Billionaire Ken Griffin, a major contributor to Republican campaigns, isnt ready to pick his candidate in the crowded field seeking the GOP presidential nomination. In an interview with CNBCs Sara Eisen that is set to air at 8 p.m. Monday, the Citadel CEO explained that he just isnt impressed with any of the candidates at this point, with a little more than 13 months until the general election. Im still on the sidelines as to who to support in this election cycle, Griffin said. Look, if I had my dream, wed have a great Republican candidate in the primary who was younger, of a different generation, with a different tone for America. And wed have a younger person on the Democratic side in the primary, who would have his message for our country. President Biden, 80, is running for reelection on the Democratic side. On the Republican side, former President Trump, 77, is the front-runner. Griffin, whose estimated net worth is about $35 billion, gave more than $100 million during the 2022 midterm cycle to various candidates, nearly all Republicans. He backed Florida Gov. Ron DeSantiss successful reelection campaign in 2022. DeSantis, 45, is now seeking the GOP presidential nomination, but Griffin had a harsh assessment of his 2024 campaign. I dont know his strategy, Griffin said. Its not clear to me what voter base he is intending to appeal to. Griffin called DeSantiss first term as governor phenomenal but said he hasnt felt the same about him recently. The ongoing battle with Disney, I think, is pointless, he said. It doesnt reflect well on the ethos of Florida. DeSantis has been feuding with Disney after the company denounced a DeSantis-backed state law that restricts discussions about sexual orientation and gender identity in public schools. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Most EU member states support the decision proposed by the European Commission regarding the export of Ukrainian grain and against the grain blockade. Source: European Pravda, citing RMF FM and Reuters Details: Spanish Agriculture Minister Luis Planas Puchades said that the European Commission has done a good job. Most Western agriculture ministers believe that solidarity with Ukraine should be preserved, since grain is an important part of the income for the Ukrainian side. They are also critical of the unilateral blockade by Poland, Hungary and Slovakia. As the Spanish minister pointed out, it is contrary to EU legislation for any country to introduce unilateral measures against the single market, but the European Commission must be the judge of that. However, according to Polish radio station RMF FM, the European Commission will be in no hurry to punish Poland just yet. "There is currently no desire to take decisive measures against Poland," a high-ranking European official said. Finland's Minister of Agriculture Sari Essayah said she understood Ukraine's decision to file a complaint to the WTO, stressing that international and EU obligations must be respected. French Agriculture Minister Marc Fesneau has also criticised the unilateral blockade, saying such actions called European solidarity into question. "For solidarity there needs to be unity... We must keep hold of the two elements, otherwise the European project is at risk. The single market is a fundamental element," Fesneau said. Background: 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! Beachgoers helped a distressed mako shark on Pensacola Beach make its way back into the water after it was discovered beached along the shore on Friday. Tina Fey, a Texas woman who was vacationing at Pensacola Beach to celebrate her wedding anniversary with her husband, filmed the encounter in a video that went viral over the weekend. The two-minute video shows three men struggling to pull the shark back into the water by its tailfin before the shark begins to thrash about. A distressed mako shark was found beached along Pensacola Beach on Friday. Four people were able to pull the shark back into the water. Undeterred, the men grabbed the sharks tail fin again to continue their efforts once the shark calmed down again. A fourth man appeared in the video about 40 seconds in, and the group was able to successfully pull the shark back into the water about a minute later. The mako shark was estimated to be about nine feet long, according to the post on social media. Mako sharks are endangered, large mackerel sharks that grow to be as large as 13 feet long and 1,250 pounds. I was his prey Pensacola fisher describes surviving mako shark attack Do mako sharks live in Florida waters? Mako sharks are highly migratory and travel across entire oceans, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. They typically live along the East Coast, from New England to Florida, and along the Gulf Coast, from Florida to Texas. Are mako sharks aggressive? Mako sharks can be aggressive but they arent likely to attack, according to the Florida Museum. Between 1926 and today, mako sharks make up about 1% of unprovoked shark attacks in Florida. Requiem (36%), bull (16%) and blacktip (15%) sharks make up the majority of reported attacks. This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Mako shark on Pensacola Beach saved after beachgoers drag it into water SOUTH BEND An autopsy is set for Monday for a man who was found dead Sunday afternoon in the 1500 block of North College Street. A police news release said officers were called to College Street about 3:20 p.m. and found a dead male who reportedly had a gunshot wound to his body. Police identified the victim as Anthony Coleman Jr., 21, of South Bend. The South Bend Police Department's Violent Crimes Unit is taking over the investigation, and the death is considered a homicide. Anyone with information about the death is asked to contact Michiana Crime Stoppers at 574-288-STOP to leave an anonymous tip. This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: South Bend homicide of male on North College Street The man accused of murdering a woman in her condo near the Ohio State University was released from jail 24 hours before her stabbing death, our media partners in Columbus, WBNS-10 reported. >>RELATED: Suspect in fatal stabbing of 77-year-old woman near OSU charged, is under guard 28-year-old Michael Brooks was being held in the Franklin County Jail on a felony assault charge. His bond was originally set at $125,000, but a request was made to the judge for the bond to be decreased to $90,000, the station said. On Sept. 5, Brooks pleaded guilty to two counts of felony fleeing and he was released on a $10,000 reporting recognizance bond three days later, pending his sentencing, according to Franklin County Common Pleas Court Judge Jaiza Page. The day after Brooks release, a stabbing occurred on Iuka Avenue in the University District on Sept. 9, the station said. >>RELATED: 77-year-old woman dead after stabbing near OSU campus A neighbor called 9-1-1 worried about Emily Foster. The Columbus Division of Police said the neighbor then found Foster dead in her condo. Police were able to locate a photo of the suspect, identified as Brooks, riding a bicycle in the area, the station said. Brooks was charged with murder on Sept. 13. While investigating Brooks whereabouts following Fosters death, police linked him to two stolen vehicles from the Dayton area on Sept. 13, the station said. On Sept. 14, police were notified that Brooks was taken into custody in Georgia. During a press conference, Columbus Police Deputy Chief Smith Weir said a homeowner called the Fairfield County Sheriffs Office in Georgia, saying that he shot a home intruder on Thursday before 2 a.m. >>Local HS principal sleeps on roof after students exceed fundraising challenge The intruder was identified as Brooks, the station said. He is expected to survive his injuries and is currently under guard of law enforcement at a hospital. Brooks will face burglary charges in Georgia and then will be extradited to Ohio, the station said. He does have a criminal history that spans Columbus police, some of the area suburbs, Franklin County, some agencies, and cities up and down 75. All the way from Detroit, obviously now down to Georgia and some communities in between, Weir said. A man is in custody after an alleged attempted carjacking Sunday in midtown Sacramento, police said. Officers responded to the area of 29th and P streets about 7 p.m., the Sacramento Police Department said. When officers arrived, they learned the man suspected of the attempted carjacking had walked onto the Capital City Freeway. The California Highway Patrol assisted Sacramento officers by stopping traffic on a section of the freeway. As an officer approached the suspect, he jumped off the freeway overpass to the surface street below. A spokesperson for the department said he was then arrested and transported to a hospital with injuries that were not considered life-threatening. [Source] A man was arrested for an alleged hate crime after he vandalized the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience in Seattles Chinatown-International District. What happened: On Thursday, Craig Milne, 76, allegedly yelled racist statements and smashed nine windows of the historic museum using a sledgehammer, according to Seattle police. The attack took place at around 5 p.m. during an after-hours tour organized by Tsuru for Solidarity, a group that advocates solidarity among different communities and against racial and state violence. Community members initially thought the destruction was construction noise but soon realized it was vandalism. Despite multiple 911 calls, police response was reportedly delayed by over 50 minutes, causing frustration among witnesses. Milnes arrest: When Milne was arrested, police noted that he said, Chinese people ruined my life, leading authorities and community leaders to believe the attack was racially motivated. Milne was booked for a hate crime offense and malicious mischief. After his first court appearance on Friday, his bail was set at $30,000. More from NextShark: Kim Jong-un pledges N. Korea's full and unconditional support for Putin during summit We argued that there was probable cause for a hate crime, said Casey McNerthney, a spokesperson for the King County Prosecuting Attorneys Office. The charging decision will come when we get the referral from Seattle police, and we anticipate getting that referral tomorrow. Museum damages: According to the museums executive director, Joel Barraquiel Tan, the damages could cost more than $200,000. Despite the incident, Tan says his staff and volunteers are committed to educating the public about Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) history. Over 100 years of anti-Chinese policies and vigilantism that isn't that long ago, that isn't too many generations ago, and I think this recent hate crime and vandalism is just connected to that, Tan told Fox 13. Our work right now is to flood it with light again, and to re-bless the place. More from NextShark: Meet the Legendary Scientist Working on Treatments For COVID-19 and Other Coronaviruses Denouncements of the incident: After Milnes arrest, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell released an official statement on X, condemning the incident and promising assistance to the museum. I am appalled to learn about the apparent hate crime that occurred at the Wing Luke Museum yesterday. The targeting of our AAPI community is unacceptable, and I condemn the attack and the hate-fueled motivations of the suspect who was arrested in the strongest possible terms, Harrell tweeted. I am appalled to learn about the apparent hate crime that occurred at the Wing Luke Museum yesterday. The targeting of our AAPI community is unacceptable, and I condemn the attack and the hate-fueled motivations of the suspect who was arrested in the strongest possible terms. More from NextShark: NYPD, FBI join forces to fight Asian hate in new campaign Mayor Bruce Harrell (@MayorofSeattle) September 15, 2023 Bettie Luke, the sister of Wing Luke, the first-ever person of color to be elected to the Seattle City Council, also denounced the recent attack and the anti-Asian hate crimes in the neighborhood. More from NextShark: Texas Pharmacist Buys Inhaler for Woman's Daughter After She Lost Her Debit Card This anti-Asian business has got to stop, she said. It isn't just an Asian American problem. It's a problem that affects the whole community. KANSAS CITY, Mo. One person is dead after a Monday morning shooting in Kansas City, according to the Kansas City Police Department. Around 9 a.m. Monday, KCPD received reports of a shooting near East 39th Street and South Benton Avenue. KCPD searching for missing Kansas City woman; needs medical care When officers arrived, multiple people were inside the residence. They were called outside so officers could search the home. Officers found a man in the entry way of the home with multiple gunshot wounds, according to KCPD. When EMS arrived, they pronounced the man dead. Investigators are currently at the scene to gather evidence and talk to witnesses. Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android One man was taken into custody. Detectives are not currently seeking any additional suspects at this time. The events leading up to the shooting are unknown at this time. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. TULARE COUNTY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) An investigation is underway after a man was shot in Ivanhoe Saturday morning, according to the Tulare County Sheriffs Office. Deputies say around 7:30 a.m. they responded to the area of Paradise Avenue and Road 158 in Ivanhoe for a shooting. Upon arrival, deputies found a man who had been shot and was eventually transferred to a local hospital in stable condition. Detectives are actively investigating the incident and ask anyone with any information to contact them at (559) 733-6218. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com. The King County Prosecuting Attorneys Office has filed a hate crime charge against a man accused of vandalizing Seattles Wing Luke Museum last week. Around 5 p.m. last Thursday, a woman called 911 to report a man smashing out windows of the museum with a sledgehammer while making racially biased remarks. While the man -- later identified as 76-year-old Craig Milne -- was smashing windows, he reportedly said that the Chinese have ruined my life. When officers arrived, he allegedly told them that the Chinese have tortured and tormented me for 14 years. I dont regret anything I did here, he added. On Monday, the KCPAO filed two felony charges against Milne, one for a hate crime and one for first degree malicious mischief. Prosecutors had asked that Milne be held on $75,000 bail, stating that the blatant racist motivations behind the defendants actions, the extreme nature of this property destruction, the disregard for individuals who were inside the building, and the lack of remorse gives the State significant community safety concerns. The court eventually decided to set bail at $30,000. Its estimated that over $100,000 worth of damage was done to the museum. Flash Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (L) meets with Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg in Valletta, capital of Malta, on Sept.16, 2023. [Photo/Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs] Wang Yi, director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, and Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg agreed in Malta on Saturday that the two sides will work together to promote China-European Union (EU) cooperation. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, said that China and Malta have always respected and treated each other as equals, which has set an example of friendly cooperation between countries of different sizes. With strong political mutual trust and solid public support, the two countries have maintained a momentum of healthy and stable development, Wang said. Noting that China appreciates Malta's repeated affirmation of its firm adherence to the one-China principle, Wang said that China, as a friend and partner, also firmly supports Malta in safeguarding its legitimate rights and interests. China welcomes Malta's serving as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2023-2024 term, and is willing to strengthen multilateral cooperation, jointly uphold the international system with the United Nations at its core, and defend international fairness and justice, Wang said. China-EU cooperation outweighs differences and the two sides are partners instead of rivals, he emphasized, adding that they can fully appreciate and learn from each other. China has consistently supported the EU's strategic independence and European integration, he noted. Since China and the EU established a comprehensive strategic partnership 20 years ago, the scope and depth of cooperation have been continuously expanded, Wang said, adding that both sides should continue to maintain an open attitude, firmly support free trade, reject protectionism, and achieve the positive effects of China-EU cooperation. Wang said he hopes Malta would continue to play a positive role in the development of China-EU relations. Borg noted that Malta-China relationship is strong and enduring. Malta cherishes its friendship with China and consistently adheres to the one-China principle, which is a firm and clear position, he added. He said that Malta looks forward to attending the China International Import Expo (CIIE) to be held in Shanghai, seizing opportunities in the Chinese market and further expanding Malta-China cooperation. Malta agrees that the EU and China are partners, not rivals, and is willing to work together to promote EU-China cooperation and jointly address global challenges, said Borg. A man from Canada was arrested after authorities say he swam to the United States to buy a gun. He was unable to obtain a gun in Canada, so he researched pawn shops that sell guns in the United States, according to an affidavit. On Sept. 6, Macomb County sheriffs deputies were called to a pawn shop in New Haven, Michigan, about a man accused of coming in and stealing a gun. The employees at the pawn shop told deputies the man came in and asked to see a gun. The employee handed him a .22-caliber pistol and two magazines. The man then asked to look at another gun, and when the employee went to get it, the man took off with the pistol and magazines, according to an affidavit. McClatchy News reached out to the mans attorney on Sept. 18, but he did not wish to comment. When deputies arrived, they found a man matching the suspects description running behind the pawn shop, according to the affidavit. After chasing him, they found him hiding in a nearby wooded area, court records say. Deputies said they arrested him at gunpoint. Nearby they found a zip-close bag with the stolen pistol loaded with one magazine containing nine .22 bullets in it, and a second magazine, according to a police report. Once deputies took the man to jail, they learned he was not a U.S. citizen and was from Canada. He then told an FBI agent he crossed into the U.S. illegally by swimming across the St. Clair River near Sombra, Ontario, about 40 miles northeast of Detroit, the affidavit says. He told the FBI agent he swam across wearing a wetsuit, flotation device and swimming fins, according to court records. He then walked from East China to the pawn shop in New Haven, about 15 miles, but got hot so he took off the wetsuit and stashed it, the affidavit says. The FBI agent said he told the agent he planned to swim back to Canada with the gun. Investigators said they were able to locate the wetsuit he stashed. They also found a crossbow pistol and a hammer he said he brought with him in case he needed it to break into the pawn shop, according to the affidavit. The FBI agent said while interviewing the man, he said he had previously been arrested in Canada on a gun charge. He said authorities took that gun, but he still had the bullets, which is why he needed a .22 caliber gun. The man is being charged with improper entry by alien, alien in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and possession of a stolen firearm. Family left in disbelief when massive creatures put on magnificent show in Canada Man steals $64,000 from Walmart stores across the US using sleight-of-hand, feds say Watch as cute little thief notices a trail camera then steals part of it in Canada Musical artist Marilyn Manson, whose legal name is Brian Hugh Warner, leaves after appearing in Belknap Superior Court,Monday, Sept. 18, 2023, in Laconia, N.H. Manson, who was charged with charged with two misdemeanor counts of simple assault, was accused of approaching a videographer at his 2019 concert in New Hampshire and allegedly spitting and blowing his nose on her. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa) LACONIA, N.H. (AP) Marilyn Manson was sentenced to 20 hours of community service and a fine on Monday after pleading no contest to blowing his nose on a videographer at a 2019 concert in New Hampshire. The shock rocker, 54, wanted to appear via video for his hearing on the misdemeanor charge, but the judge required him to be in the courtroom in Laconia, about 30 miles north of Concord, the state capital. Manson, whose legal name is Brian Warner, was charged with two misdemeanor counts of simple assault stemming from the encounter with the videographer at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion in Gilford on Aug. 19, 2019. Manson pleaded no contest to just the nose-blowing charge in a fully negotiated plea agreement with prosecutors. The prosecutors agreed to dismiss the other charge, which alleged that he spit on the videographer. A no contest plea means Manson is not contesting the charge and does not admit guilt. Manson was fined a little more than $1,400 as part of the deal, with $200 suspended. He needs to remain arrest-free and notify local police of any New Hampshire performances for two years. The judge, who called Manson's acts egregious, agreed to allow Manson to do his community service in California. Manson mentioned to reporters that he might choose to work with people in recovery. He has to give proof of his community service by Feb. 4. According to a police affidavit, Manson approached videographer Susan Fountain in the venues stage pit area, put his face close to her camera and spit a big lougee at her. She was struck on both hands with saliva. He approached her again later, kneeling and covering one nostril before blowing the other on her arms and hands. Manson blows a significant amount of mucous at Fountain," a police sergeant who reviewed concert video footage said in the affidavit. After that, the camera view changes and people can see Manson "point and laugh at Fountain as she gets down and walks away, the affidavit said. After that, the camera view changes to another one and people can see Manson point and laugh etc. Fountain was not in court, but submitted a statement that was read aloud. For me, Im a professional person and Ive been in this industry for 30 years. Ive worked for a lot of companies, and in all the years Ive worked with people, Ive never been humiliated or treated the way I was by this defendant, it read. For him to spit on me and blow his nose on me was the most disgusting thing a human being has ever done. I understand this was not a big criminal charge to begin with, but I was hoping that the defendant would receive a sentence that would make him think twice before doing something like this again, the statement read. Monday, Manson walked into the main entrance of the courthouse, through security. He was wearing a suit, dressed head to toe in black, and dark sunglasses. Security staff referred to him as Mr. Warner," and he identified himself in court as Brian Warner, using a soft speaking voice. He otherwise only answered yes to the judges questions asking if he understood the proceeding, and made no statement. Prosecutor Andrew Livernois said it was his first offense and he had no prior record. Manson initially pleaded not guilty to both charges in 2021. He was scheduled to go to trial in August. His lawyer had said that the type of filming Fountain was doing commonly exposes videographers to incidental contact with bodily fluids. The defendants performance for the past twenty years are well known to include shocking and evocative antics similar to those that occurred here, attorney Kent Barker wrote. The alleged victim consented to exposing herself to potential contact with sweat, saliva and phlegm in close quarters. Barker also had said Manson planned to argue that any contact related to spitting or sneezing was unintentional. If Manson had gone to trial on the charges, each could have resulted in a jail sentence of less than a year and a $2,000 fine if convicted. Manson emerged as a musical star in the mid-1990s, known as much for courting public controversy as for hit songs like The Beautiful People and hit albums like 1996s Antichrist Superstar and 1998s Mechanical Animals." In May, a California judge threw out key sections of Mansons lawsuit against his former fiancee, Westworld actor Evan Rachel Wood, claiming she fabricated public allegations that he sexually and physically abused her during their relationship and encouraged other women to do the same. He is appealing the ruling. Mansons suit, filed last year, alleges that Wood and another woman named as a defendant, Illma Gore, defamed Manson, intentionally caused him emotional distress and derailed his career in music, TV and film. Several women have sued Manson in recent years with allegations of sexual and other abuse. Most have been dismissed or settled, including a suit filed by Game of Thrones actor Esme Bianco. The Associated Press does not typically name people who say they have been sexually abused unless they come forward publicly. ___ Whittle reported from Portland, Maine. The US Marine Corps is ordering a two-day pause to all its flight operations this week. In an announcement, the service said this was triggered by a string of "aviation mishaps." Most recently, a pilot ejected from an F-35 during training and the aircraft went missing. The US Marines Corps is ordering a two-day pause to all flights this week after a string of "aviation mishaps," including an incident in which an F-35 fighter jet went missing this week. Gen. Eric M. Smith, acting commandant of the Marine Corps, directed all of the service's aviation units "to conduct a two-day pause in operations this week to discuss aviation safety matters and best practices," according to a statement on Monday. The Marine Corps said the announcement follows "three Class-A aviation mishaps over the last six weeks." A Class-A mishap is defined by the Naval Safety Command as inflicting property damage worth $2.5 million or more, "and/or aircraft destroyed." It also covers fatalities or permanent total disabilities. The other two incidents referred to by the announcement occurred in late August, according to a US Navy database of flight mishaps for the 2023 fiscal year. On August 24, an F/A-18 fighter jet crashed in southern California, killing the Marine who was piloting the aircraft. Three days later, a MV-22B Osprey crashed during a training exercise in Australia, killing three Marines and injuring over 20 more. Most recently, a Marine Corps pilot was forced to eject from a F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter during a training exercise over South Carolina on Sunday, which appeared to be the final straw for the service and triggered the flight pause. Joint Base Charleston confirmed Sunday afternoon that there was a "mishap" involving the fighter jet, and the US military has asked the public for its help finding the missing aircraft. A highly advanced fifth-generation aircraft, the F-35 is estimated to cost around $100 million, and because the decades-long program to develop the fighters is expected to cost over $1 trillion, it's earned the title of being one of the country's costliest weapons programs in history. As of Monday afternoon, the military was conducting extensive search operations to try and locate the missing jet. "During the safety stand down, aviation commanders will lead discussions with their Marines focusing on the fundamentals of safe flight operations, ground safety, maintenance and flight procedures, and maintaining combat readiness," the Marine Corps said in the Monday statement. "This stand down being taken to ensure the service is maintaining operational standardization of combat-ready aircraft with well-prepared pilots and crews." The Marine Corps added that this pause "invests time and energy in reinforcing the Marine aviation community's established policies, practices and procedures in the interests of public safety, protecting our Marines and sailors, and ensuring the Marine Corps remains a ready and highly-trained fighting force." Read the original article on Business Insider The Marine Corps issued a service-wide stand-down order Monday for all aviation units inside and outside the country after an F-35B fighter jet disappeared over South Carolina. Marine Corps acting Commandant Gen. Eric Smith ordered the two-day pause following three aviation mishaps in less than two months including the disappearance an F-35 fighter jet Sunday. The advanced $80 million jet went missing after its pilot safely ejected for unknown reasons over North Charleston, with Joint Base Charleston officials asking the public Monday to call them if they have any information to help recovery teams find the aircraft. The pilot who ejected was taken to a local hospital and is in stable condition, and the incident is under investigation, base officials said. In a service-wide email, the Marine Corps said the safety stand-down will include discussions led by aviation commanders focusing on the fundamentals of safe flight operations, ground safety, maintenance and flight procedures, and maintaining combat readiness. The pause follows two other aviation accidents, including an F-18 crash last month during a training flight near San Diego that killed the pilot. And three Marines died and 20 military personnel were injured when an MV-22B Osprey crashed in Australia in late August. After that incident, Smith ordered a thorough and harsh service-wide safety review, which was expected to be wrapped up last week and the results of which have not yet been publicly released. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. This article was originally published in Maryland Matters. Maryland Superintendent Mohammed Choudhury, who took the helm of state public schools in 2021 as a change agent and recently faced criticism from state lawmakers, former employees and others, has decided he will not seek a second term. According to a joint statement Friday from Choudhury and the State Board of Education, the superintendent will pursue other opportunities. The board will present plans for the transition of a new leader and a national search for his replacement when it meets Sept. 26 in Baltimore. The State Board is grateful to Superintendent Choudhury for his leadership in Maryland through the first phase of educational transformation in the State, according to the statement. During the remainder of his tenure, the Superintendent will work with the State Board and other stakeholders to continue the critical work of leading education transformation in Maryland. Get stories like these delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter The board noted several accomplishments under Choudhurys tenure since he took over in July 2021, including guiding the state Department of Educations strategic plan, the Maryland Tutoring Corps initiative and other programs. On Tuesday, Choudhury said in an interview he was optimistic he would continue his work leading the department on various programs such as the states major education reform plan called The Blueprint for Marylands Future. However, a new four-year contract remained in limbo. According to board bylaws, the panel needed to approve a new contract for Choudhury this coming Tuesday. The board held a closed-door meeting Wednesday to discuss a personnel matter. Two days later on Friday, Choudhury decided to not seek a second term. Choudhurys current contract has a base salary of $310,000 and runs through June 30, 2024, though it is unclear if he will remain in his position until that time. Choudhury, who came to Maryland after working as associate superintendent of strategy, talent and innovation at the San Antonio Independent School District in Texas, has received national recognition for his efforts on economic integration of schools. Although hes received some praise in his two years in Maryland for analyzing data, decreasing staff vacancies and a push to help local school systems hire teachers from their community, Choudhury has also been criticized by some state lawmakers and former employees on his leadership style and lack of collaboration with some advocates. Robert Eccles, a former education official who left the department last year, testified before the board this year requesting a third-party investigation into Choudhurys direction of the state agency, alleging intimidation and harassment of former staff. This is a new day and the right move for everyone involved, Eccles said in a text message Friday. We all want our education system to meet this moment with the Blueprint, and I have full confidence that the board will select an exceptional leader for this important work. But Choudhury did receive support from some board members such as board President Clarence Crawford, who credited the superintendent for achieving the departments lowest vacancy rate in a decade. The board has undergone dramatic turnover in the past year. Six members of the 14-member panel have been appointed by Gov. Wes Moore (D), while eight are holdovers from the administration of Gov. Larry Hogan (R). Moore, who has recently expressed some dissatisfaction with Choudhury, released a statement Friday thanking him for leading state schools admirably during an unprecedented global pandemic and a transformative time for our states education system. His implementation of the initial phase of the Blueprint for Marylands Future has set our students and educators up for success as we continue the work of making Marylands public schools the best in the country, the statement continued. As far as the next superintendent, the governor said he expects the state board to ensure we find an exceptional leader who will commit to transparency, accountability, and partnership with all stakeholders to improve education outcomes in every corner of Maryland. Our educators, students, communities, and families deserve nothing less. Cheryl Bost, president of the Maryland State Education Association, which represents 75,000 school teachers in the state, said the union appreciated Choudhurys willingness to always have an open door for educators, his strong focus on the Blueprint for Marylands Future, and his data-driven decision-making to help our most challenged students and schools. The union hopes the next schools leader will remain committed to Blueprint reforms and maintaining a laser focus on ending the educator shortages. Danielle E. Gaines contributed to this report. This story was orginally published at Maryland Matters. Massachusetts agencies will end all purchases of single-use plastic bottles, Gov. Maura Healey (D) announced Monday at the Clinton Global Initiatives Climate Week summit. Plastic production and plastic waste are among the leading threats to our oceans, our climate, and environmental justice, Healey said. In government, we have an obligation to stop contributing to this damage and chart a better path forward. So we are proud to become the first state to adopt a procurement ban on single-use plastic bottles. Although Massachusetts is the first state to announce such a ban, the city of Concord has gone further, outright banning the use of single-use plastic bottles in 2013. At the federal level, the Interior Department announced it would phase out sales of single-use plastic last year. During her remarks, Healey also announced broader environmental initiatives in the Bay State, including a pending executive order on biodiversity protections in the state that she said will exceed the Biden administrations 30 by 30 conservation goals. Steps will include taking swift action to stem the loss of our salt marshes which provide critically important habitat, protect inland areas from storm impacts, and remove large amounts of carbon from the atmosphere, she said. And, we will be looking at strategies such as marine protected areas to ensure coastal and ocean habitats critical to biodiversity can recover and thrive. Our seas and forests are the most fundamental climate resources we have; we are determined to protect them. Healey, who took office in January, has taken a number of aggressive actions on climate as governor, including appointing Melissa Hoffer, a onetime Environmental Protection Agency lawyer, as the countrys first state climate czar. In 2022, she campaigned on a vow to reach 100 percent renewable electricity use by the end of the decade and end sales of new gas-powered passenger vehicles in the state by 2035. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Rep. Matt Gaetz named a new legislative director after seeing two aides step down amid the scandal engulfing the Florida Republican. Joe Raedle/Getty Images On Monday afternoon, NBC News reported that Rep. Matt Gaetz is expected to run for governor. Gaetz told Insider in a statement the report was "overblown clickbait." He said that "dozens" of his former colleagues in the state legislature asked him to run. GOP Rep. Matt Gaetz said recent reports that he plans to run for governor of Florida in 2026 are "overblown clickbait." On Monday afternoon, NBC News reported that Gaetz is expected to toss his hat into the ring after Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis exits the governor's mansion in 2027 due to term limits. When Gaetz attended a local GOP event on Sunday evening, he "strongly implied several times he would be running for governor," according to NBC. In a statement to Insider, Gaetz downplayed the report. "The NBC story is overblown clickbait," Gaetz said. He also said that "dozens" of his former colleagues from the state legislature encourage him "relentlessly" to pursue the position. "I wasn't focused on any of that talk, though," he said. "My sole mission right now is to kill the Donalds CR that funds Ukraine, Jack Smith, and a weaponized Biden government." Reports emerged Sunday night that fellow GOP Florida Rep. Byron Donalds and a group of House Republicans had introduced a continuing resolution to temporarily fund the government and avoid a shutdown at the end of the month. Gaetz, alongside a handful of other House Republicans, was quick to shoot down Donalds' idea on Twitter. "I will NOT surrender," he wrote on Sunday. Donalds on Monday attempted to explain to Gaetz online that defunding the government wouldn't shut Special Counsel Jack Smith's prosecution of former President Donald Trump. "It is so painful watching someone I admire so much author a continuing resolution to fund the government agencies I loathe," Gaetz tweeted in response. Gaetz's treatment of his fellow Floridian legislator is notable as Donalds has also been rumored as a possible candidate for governor in 2026. Read the original article on Business Insider Authorities issued a Matties Call for a man who disappeared over the weekend. Griffin police officials said they are looking for 39-year-old Jermal Williams, who was last seen at his home on Sunday at 2 a.m. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] His family told police that he left on foot and is possibly trying to make it to College Park or the Clayton County area. Williams is described as being five foot ten inches and weighing 130 pounds. He was last seen wearing a gray t-shirt, red shorts, a blue jacket and gray Crocs. TRENDING STORIES: Authorities said Williams has autism. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is asked to contact Investigator J. McKinney at 678-544-7452. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) joined Lisa Boothe on her her podcast to speak about the upcoming Sept. 30 deadline for the House and Senate to avoid a government shutdown. If you shut down [the government], you really cede the power to the government, McCarthy said on The Truth with Lisa Boothe. McCarthy mentioned that if the government were to shut down, military troops and air traffic controllers wouldnt get paid, and the U.S.-Mexico border would be wide open without the U.S. Border Patrol staff. Say you dont fund [the government], you go to a government shutdown. You know what happens then? McCarthy told Boothe, a Republican strategist and commentator on Fox News since 2016. The border is wide open. Do you not want to fund the border agents? Recently McCarthy has butted heads and expressed frustration with House Republicans who have held up appropriations processes and received threats from members who want him removed from his leadership position. Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) has threatened to have McCarthy removed from his seat if he doesnt follow through on spending priorities that were previously negotiated and promised when McCarthy tried to earn enough votes to become Speaker. Hard-line conservatives have battled GOP leadership for months over spending bills, following a tension-filled month of May before the government ultimately passed a bill raising the debt ceiling avoiding a government shutdown. With less than two weeks until the deadline, McCarthys comments on the podcast appeared to be a message to those members. So the way I look at it is, we want government to function, but we want it to be limited government. We want it to be honest; we want it to be accountable, McCarthy said. We can show government can govern that way. Thats why weve been moving our appropriation bills. Weve got to finish that job. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Flash Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee, will be in Russia from September 18 to 21 to hold the 18th round of the China-Russia strategic security consultation, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Monday. Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calf.) said Sunday the House Republicans investigating President Biden and his son Hunter Biden will eventually subpoena the younger Biden, but only when the timing is right. When asked by Maria Bartiromo on Fox Newss Sunday Morning Futures why House Republicans have not subpoenaed Hunter Biden, McCarthy said, Hunter Biden will get subpoenaed, but when is the appropriate time? Do you do it because television wants it, or do you do it around the facts and the timing when [House Oversight and Accountability Chairman James] Comer [R-Ky.] I think we should have the bank statements to actually know, where did the money go? So, you would know the questions to ask Hunter Biden, McCarthy said. McCarthy announced last week he was moving to launch an official impeachment inquiry into Biden, amid House Republicans widespread investigations into the Biden familys foreign business dealings. Comer, along with House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-Ohio.), have spent recent months leading House investigations into Hunter Bidens time on the board of a Ukrainian energy company while his father was vice president. In his announcement last week, McCarthy said House Republicans uncovered serious and credible allegations into President Bidens conduct a culture of corruption. The one thing [the] American public has to understand is, theres a strategy behind everything, McCarthy said Sunday. We only follow facts. To just to subpoena Hunter Biden because you want to fundraise or you want to do something, thats not how were going to run an investigation, the Republican Speaker continued. McCarthy also pointed to the apparent emails that Comer claims show then-Vice President Biden used pseudonyms in emails with Hunter Biden or his business partners. Last month, Comer requested the National Archives provide the committee special unredacted access to these emails. We also have 5,400 emails that Joe Biden used as vice president a false name that we have not been able to get yet, McCarthy said. Wouldnt it be smarter in an investigation that you were able to get all of those emails? Wouldnt you want to know all that information, so you can ask all the right questions? So I think, let them do their job. Theyre doing a very good job at it, and let them follow it and take it at the right time, McCarthy continued. When pressed over plans to subpoena other Biden family members, McCarthy said he would like to see bank statements before calling them in to testify. Remember what [an] impeachment inquiry is, McCarthy said. It empowers Congress in a legal ability to the get the information we need. Thats going to be bank statements, thats going to be credit card statements, thats going to be family members coming in and answering the questions the American public can know. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The next EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting will likely be held in Kyiv at the beginning of October, the Italian news agency ANSA reported on Sept. 18, citing three unnamed sources. Foreign ministers of the 27 European Union states will convene in Ukraine's capital to demonstrate the EU's support for the country's fight against Russian aggression, and to "proceed along the path of political integration" of Ukraine, the news agency said. The EU's top diplomats will also reportedly address increasing the military aid for Ukraine and tightening sanctions against Russia, namely targeting the high-tech sector. The Foreign Affairs Council convenes at least once per month to define and implement the EU's foreign and security policy. Last week, Germany's Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock arrived in Kyiv to discuss Ukraine's path toward EU membership, German support for Ukrainian critical infrastructure ahead of the coming winter, and economic cooperation between the two countries. Read also: Josep Borrell: Making Ukrainian victory possible Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The Scoop Local media in the state of Maine has emerged as an unlikely and asymmetric battlefield for big American political money. Two of the countrys key left-leaning political spenders, George Soross Open Society Foundation and the medical device billionaire philanthropist Hansjorg Wyss, played a central and previously unreported role in the nonprofit purchase of nearly two dozen respected local newspapers in Maine, including the Portland Press Herald, the Lewiston Sun Journal and the Kennebec Journal. The July announcement by the National Trust for Local News was greeted with relief by the papers management, unionized employees and readers, who had feared a sale to the sort of cost-cutting investors that have scooped up troubled local news organizations. A person with direct knowledge of the project said that both Open Society and Wyss gave millions to the National Trust for the purchase of the Maine newspapers. A spokesperson for the nonprofit noted that Open Society was one of its financial supporters, but denied that Open Society committed funds specifically for the project. And the biggest right-wing political money in the country is investing in Maine, too: According to financial filings shared separately with Semafor by the left-leaning group Accountable.US, conservative judicial activist Leonard Leos political network has been partially financing a local right-wing publication in Maine. Launched in 2011, The Maine Wire is a small digital media site that publishes state and national news through a conservative lens, largely serving as a right-wing news aggregator with headlines like Natural Disaster Threatens Man-Made Disaster as Hurricane Lee Bears Down on Portlands Growing Homeless Camp and Massive Migrant Caravan Heads North to US From Panama. According to filings shared with Semafor, in 2020 and 2021, The Maine Wires parent organization, the Maine Policy Institute, received funding from several nonprofits backed by Leo, including the Schwab Charitable Fund and DonorsTrust. The news organization appeared to return the favor with favorable coverage. Earlier this year, the site published an extensive interview with Leo discussing the current Supreme Court and Trumps appointment record. Leo praised the outlets work, noting that it had been a privilege to be able to support [the Wires] work. The Wire subsequently bought paid advertisements promoting the article on Facebook, which Accountable.US said was the only time the outlet purchased ads on the social media network in recent years. Leonard Leos response to the negative press he has rightfully received for being the villain corrupting our courts and pushing an anti-democratic agenda is to funnel dark money to a right-wing propaganda outlet to defend him, Accountable.US senior advisor Kyle Herrig said in a statement to Semafor. The Maine Wire has also attempted to play up the political nature of the purchase of the Maine newspaper group. The conservative site covered the purchase of the Maine newspaper group, highlighting the nonprofits pre-existing Soros connection and complaining that the papers did not cover an inquiry into whether a state lawmaker was dishonest in financial records. The Maine Wire is supported by thousands of Mainers, including Mr. Leo, because they see value in robust investigative reporting into the activities of state and local government, Maine Wire editor in chief Steven Robinson told Semafor. Our work speaks for itself. Maxs view Maine isnt a particular target for national politics simply a microcosm of the broader forces at work in the troubled American local news network. Its also a microcosm of the deep asymmetry of American news, between a center-left Establishment trying to keep the journalistic lights on and a right-wing media more explicitly focused on politics. The National Trusts purchase of the Maine newspapers represent an attempt to preserve existing local news outlets that cover local stories and public figures across the political spectrum. The Leo-backed Maine Wire is a smaller-scale, much more overtly political effort to put a conservative spin on local news in Maine. Its impossible to argue against saving local newspapers. But at a time when trust in the news media is at a low, the secrecy around the National Trusts funding raises questions about the sustainability of a nonprofit model that often depends on relatively few big donors. Room for Disagreement I think the person who writes the checks is ultimately less important than the quality of the news provided, Michael Socolow, a media historian and journalism professor at the University of Maine, said in an email to Semafor. Look at the Wall Street Journal: Its owned by Rupert Murdoch yet its journalists were awarded the Pulitzer Prize in 2019 for revealing Donald Trumps hush-money payments to Stormy Daniels during the 2016 campaign. Notable As Semafor first reported last month, the nonprofit Texas Tribune was forced to make major cuts amid a decline in corporate sponsorship revenue, which typically comes from marketing or government affairs budgets. In an email earlier this year to supporters titled Huge decline in giving, the newly nonprofit publication the Intercept acknowledged that it had been impacted by a drop in charitable donations over the past year. Multiple nonprofit news insiders have told Semafor over the past several months that the increase in news nonprofits has outpaced giving to these organizations, and has in some cases created competition for a small pool of funds. A single, $1.6 billion contribution to groups controlled by Leo represents an extraordinary sum that could give Republicans and their causes a huge financial boost ahead of the midterms, and for years to come, The New York Times reported. Wyss sought to buy Tribune Publishing, and has channeled vast sums through a daisy chain of opaque organizations that mask the ultimate recipients of his money, the Timess Ken Vogel wrote. On the first day of the full-scale war, defenders of Ukraine tried to maintain control of Melitopol, in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, but they were unable to. On the eve of the Russian invasion, the Melitopol front was entirely unprotected. Source: Major General Andrii Sokolov, who was the Deputy Commander of Operational Command Pivden (South) at the beginning of the invasion and led the Pivden group of troops, in an interview with Ukrainska Pravda (English translation to follow shortly). Quote: "No separate brigade was assigned to the Melitopol front. I had to take one battalion from the 59th [Brigade] and assign it there to conduct defence. It was the 9th Motorised Infantry Battalion, the best in the brigade at the time that's why I chose it, because its commander was experienced (unfortunately, he was later killed near Zaporizhzhia), and the battalion itself was better prepared. But it [the battalion ed.] did not have time to get there and take up the defence either. In fact, it went there and was surrounded. And then we withdrew them, together with the servicemen of the 137th battalion, to Vasylivka [in Zaporizhzhia Oblast ed.]. During the defence of Vasyliivka, they were surrounded again and we withdrew them again." Details: Sokolov said it had been necessary to move the headquarters to Velyka Lepetykha [a village near Nova Kakhovka ed.] as early as the end of the day on 24 February, but Sokolov realised that the headquarters would be surrounded there as well, since there was already information that troops had landed on the Antonivka Bridge and it was under Russian control. The major general says he changed his plan instantly: first, Pivden (South) Command went to Vasylivka, in the direction of Melitopol, and then it was deployed in the direction of Zaporizhzhia. Quote: "At the end of 24 February, we were given additional forces: a National Guard regiment, a public order patrol unit, and the 110th Brigade of the Territorial Defence Forces. We tried to gain a foothold. Melitopol was not occupied at the time, and enemy troops had approached the outskirts of the city and were there. We managed to inflict fire damage on the convoys [of Russian military equipment ed.], and then our Uragan MLRS worked very well, covering the enemy convoy with fire. That night, we marched from Vasylivka and entered Melitopol. Unfortunately, the forces we had two incomplete National Guard battalions were not enough. The 110th Brigade did not enter Melitopol because they did not even have any equipment. Unfortunately, we failed to hold Melitopol. The control of Melitopol was there for the taking, as they say, and anyone could pick it up: there was no organised resistance or defence. The enemy entered Melitopol, and the National Guard units had to leave Melitopol. Then we organised a defence along the Vasylivka-Tokmak line, but we failed to hold that too with those forces. And then we moved even further, to a place where we already had our troops reinforced Kamianske, I think [a village a little further up the Dnipro from Vasylivka ed.]." Details: Asked whether the Ukrainian leadership had really expected Russian aggression only in the east and not in the south, Sokolov disagreed: "No, I wouldn't say that." "We were expecting it, because wed considered an enemy attack from the south in all the command and staff exercises and war games. And, in fact, they acted as we expected: their first task was to capture bridges and crossings across the Dnipro River, and their second task was to attack Melitopol and Mariupol so as to create a land corridor. They acted exactly as we had predicted," Sokolov said. Asked why the grouping was not sufficiently formed at the time and why there was a shortage of personnel, Sokolov replied: "In my opinion, we lacked the assets and personnel. We entered a full-scale war in peacetime, in a peaceful state. That is, no additional military formations were created. We had to use what we had. Let's count them: there were 12 brigades in the Joint Forces Operation area, 5 in each tactical group, plus reserves. We also had to cover Kyiv, Kharkiv and Chernihiv oblasts. It took a lot of effort. The command allocated as much as it could to the south," added Sokolov, who was in charge of the South Grouping of troops on 24 February 2022. Background: At the beginning of February 2022, US intelligence reported that Russia was considering nine possible options for the military invasion of Ukraine and planned to capture Kyiv within two days. Russia rapidly captured Henichesk, Melitopol and Berdiansk and besieged Mariupol on the coast of the Sea of Azov, as well as Kherson and the cities of Kherson Oblast on the Black Sea coast. 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! SPRING VALLEY Jared Lloyd's family and fellow firefighters will experience two emotional days this week in memory of the fallen firefighter. They will mark Lloyd's legacy of volunteerism on Monday night at his home firehouse when his two young sons unveil a plaque with his name and a section of West Street is named in his memory. Two days later in a sterile courtroom, many of them will experience a more somber remembrance when two men are likely sentenced to probation for causing the fatal fire to the Evergreen Court Home for Adults in March 2021. Lloyd, 35, a second lieutenant, died helping to evacuate 112 adult home residents with dozens of other firefighters. He died when a section of the massive Lafayette Street building collapsed on top of him. Adult home resident Oliver Hueston, 79, died as a result of the inferno. Spring Valley firefighters at Columbian Fire Engine Co. No. 1 June 22, 2023 are upset about Rockland DA Thomas Walsh's decision to offer a no-jail plea deal to two rabbis whose actions sparked the Evergreen Court fire that killed their member, Jared Lloyd Street named for Jared Lloyd On Monday night, firefighters, family, and supporters will gather at the Columbian Fire Engine Co. No. 1 firehouse on West Street. Lloyd's sons, Darius and Logan, both under 10, will unveil a plaque adding their father's name to the firehouse. Firefighters created a place of honor at the firehouse with photos and plaques among the relics, including a singed hose used on that deadly night fashioned into an American flag. An estimated half-mile stretch of West Street from Route 59, Walnut, Commerce, Church, Murin, Hoyt, and Sixth will be renamed Jared Lloyd Way. Spring Valley firefighter John Kapral walks past a photo of Jared Lloyd at the Columbian Fire Engine Co. No. 1 firehouse June 22, 2023. Firefighters there, and around the county, are upset about Rockland DA Thomas Walsh's decision to offer a no-jail plea deal to two rabbis whose actions sparked the Evergreen Court fire that killed Lloyd. The firehouse and eventual West Street dedications follow a mile-plus stretch of Route 45, from Eckerson Road to New Hempstead Road, named "The Jared Lloyd Memorial Highway" in 2022. Lloyd has been honored by New York State with his name added to the firefighter memorial and the "Hero Award" from the Firefighters Association of the State of New York. His name also has been enshrined on the memorial for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. His mother, Sabrail Davenport, and sons accepted the Medal of Honor from President Joe Biden in July during a White House ceremony. The medal is the nation's highest civilian honor, "awarded to public safety officers who have exhibited exceptional courage, regardless of personal safety, in the attempt to save or protect others from harm." Rabbis face probation when sentenced The Evergreen Court inferno erupted on March 23, 2021, several hours after Rabbi Nathaniel Sommer used a 20-pound blowtorch to cleanse the Evergreen Court ovens and kitchen for Passover. On Wednesday morning in County Court Judge Kevin Russo's courtroom, the emotions will be far different from celebratory. Guilty plea: Rabbis who caused Evergreen Court fatal fire get plea with DA for no jail time Sommer and his son, Aaron will likely be sentenced to probation as part of a guilty plea deal to charges of causing the fatal fire. Firefighters and many residents have condemned the no-jail or prison deal reached among the rabbis' attorneys, Russo and Rockland District Attorney Thomas Walsh. Walsh's office secured grand jury indictments against six people as a result of the fire. The Sommers were the only convictions. Prosecutors plea-bargained dismissals with two former Evergreen Court employees, who then testified before the grand jury. Two Building Department inspectors were acquitted of charges unrelated to the fire. Rabbis Nathaniel Sommer and son Aaron appear in Rockland County Court to accept a plea bargain in their manslaughter case June 20, 2023. Nathaniel was questioning Judge Kevin Russo about his parole. They were charged in the death of Spring Valley firefighter Jared Lloyd and facility resident Oliver Hueston, who were killed in a fire at the Evergreen Court nursing home. The elder Sommer, 71, pleaded to two felony counts of second-degree manslaughter. His son, 28, pleaded guilty to misdemeanor second-degree reckless endangerment. They will not serve jail time but will pay $600 in court fees. Manslaughter can carry a sentence of five to 15 years in prison. DA boycott: Calls grow for DA Walsh to resign after no-jail plea of men in fatal Evergreen fire case Firefighters and Davenport wanted Walsh to take the charges to trial. A grand jury indicted the two rabbis on charges that included manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, assault, and arson. Prosecutors didn't recommend a sentence. Walsh's office has claimed the potential sentence is in Russo's hands. NAACP: Rockland leaders condemn DA's no-jail plea agreement in fatal Spring Valley adult home fire As a result of the plea agreement fire companies across Rockland have boycotted Walsh and demanded he not attend any firefighter social or public events, such as the firefighters' parade. They've also demanded he resign, though he's running for re-election in November unopposed unless a write-in candidate emerges. Jared Lloyd's mother, Sabrail Davenport speaks outside the Rockland County Court June 20, 2023. Rabbis Nathaniel Sommer and son Aaron accepted a plea deal in the death of Spring Valley firefighter Jared Lloyd and facility resident Oliver Hueston, who were killed in a fire at the Evergreen Court nursing home. Davenport will speak at the sentencing. She has been critical of the plea deal and hopes she can convince Russo to change his mind. Davenport expressed her feelings about the plea in four words about Walsh: "disappointment, disgusted, heartbroken, and betrayed." 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: Jared Lloyd honored for role in Evergreen adult home fire evacuation A small town New Jersey mayor with with strong connections to the national GOP and former President Trump announced Monday she is running to unseat Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.). Christine Serrano Glassner, the two-term mayor of Mendham Borough, announced her campaign in a statement ripping the Senate Foreign Relations Committee chairman over his career of cronyism. Today, I am announcing my decision to run for the U.S. Senate because New Jersey deserves better than this dark cloud of corruption that has been following Bob Menendez for a decade, Serrano Glassner said in a statement. As a fighter for New Jersey residents and businesses throughout my career in federal and state government and based on my experience as a mom and a mayor, I am ready to go to work. We need a leader to fight for the hardworking men and women of New Jersey and for America. I am that leader, and I will defeat Bob Menendez and end his career of cronyism. Menendez survived a federal corruption trial in 2017 with a deadlocked jury, but he is once again target of a public-corruption probe. Serrano Glassner was the regional advocate for the U.S. Small Business Administration in former President George W. Bushs administration. She was also a top executive at the Empire State Development Corp. under former New York Gov. George Pataki (R). Her husband, Michael Glassner, is a veteran GOP political strategist who was chief operating officer of Trumps 2020 reelection bid. He was also involved in Trumps successful 2016 nomination as a deputy campaign manager and political director. The twice-elected mayor also went after President Bidens economic policies in her announcement and touched on some culture wars issues. We need a fighter someone who believes hardworking Americans matter, and who will stop Joe Bidens failed economic policies, she said. Someone who believes parents rights matter, and who will keep woke ideology out of our schools. Menendezs top New Jersey political adviser Michael Soliman told the New Jersey Globe that Serrano Glassners alignment with Trump will tank her campaign. Before she runs against Senator Menendez, the mayor is going to have to run from her record. She has supported Donald Trump not once, not twice, but now three times, Soliman said. She owns Trumps disgraced legacy from January 6th to Charlottesville to a Supreme Court that gutted a womans right to choose, denies voting rights and makes our streets less safe with more guns. Ill put Bob Menendezs record against hers any day. Three GOP candidates are already in the race: Shirley Maia-Cusick, an immigration consultant from Hunterdon County; Gregg Mele, the 2021 Libertarian candidate for governor; and Daniel Cruz, a former Andover Regional School District Board of Education member. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Artificial intelligence was used for a Texas Methodist churchs Sunday service, but its pastor insists it was just a one-time thing.Violet Crown City Church in Austin entered somewhat uncharted territory with its Sunday, Sept. 17, service by allowing ChatGPT to create its worship, prayers and sermon. ChatGPT, which stands for Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer, is a chatbot that creates human-like dialogue based off a prompt given by the user. The purpose of the service, pastor Jay Cooper said in a Facebook post, was for parishioners to consider the nature of truth and challenge our assumptions about what God can make sacred and inspired. We believe its a worthy and timely one in our ever-changing world, especially with the rise of AI, Cooper said. But there were kinks that needed to be ironed out before Sunday. Cooper told KXAN that ChatGPT created a 15-minute service, and it was very clear that a human element is still needed. He said he used additional prompts to beef up the sermon. While Cooper does not have plans to use AI again, he said the model can be a tool used by churches, according to MySanAntonio.com. To update an old saying, Christians need to approach life and a life of faith with the Bible in one hand and a smartphone in the other, he told the publication. Ernest Chambers, who attended the AI service, said the sermon lacked feelings, according to KXAN. He said ChatGPT is unable to convey the love, kindness and empathy of a typical service. Violet Crown City Church is not the first church to use artificial intelligence for its service. In June, St. Pauls Church in Fuerth, Germany, used ChatGPT to create a 40-minute sermon for its 300 parishioners, according to The Associated Press. The service had mixed reviews, with one worshiper telling the AP it lacked heart and soul. Another person noted their surprise of how well it worked, though he said it was a bit bumpy at times. Among a sea of green, white and red along with mariachi music, folkloric dancers and Mexican food Adriana Gonzalez Carrillo, consul general of the Mexican Consulate in Fresno, used the Grito de la Independencia ceremony at Fresno City College to deliver a state of the consulate. The consulate, in its 92nd year of operation, handled more than 82,000 transactions, making it among the ten busiest of 53 Mexican consulates in the United States. In June, more than 35,000 people received a consular document. The consulate added a consular service for the LGBTQ+ community, which has resulted in 25 people receiving a passport or consular card with the name and gender with which they identify. For the first time ever, the Mexican consulate participated in the Rainbow Pride Parade in the Tower District. Consul General Adriana Gonzalez Carrillo handled the Grito de Dolores during the Mexican Independence Day celebration at Fresno City College on Sept. 15, 2023. JUAN ESPARZA LOERA/jesparza@vidaenelvalle.com We are and will continue to work to make our service more efficient and for our support to reach those who need it most in the eight counties we serve, said Gonzalez Carrillo before several hundred guests who celebrated the Grito de la Independencia. Reps. Jim Costa, D-Fresno, and David Valadao , R-Hanford, were among a slew of public officials who lauded the consulates work and delivered plaques or proclamations. We cant overstate, quite frankly, the importance of relationships between the United States and Mexico, and Mexico and Fresno, which is why we declared this last year Guadalajara (Jalisco) as a sister city with Fresno, said Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer, who noted he sealed the deal by drinking tequila with Guadalajara representatives. Congressman David Valadao spoke during the presentation of proclamations at the Mexican Independence Day celebration at Fresno City College on Sept. 15, 2023. JUAN ESPARZA LOERA/jesparza@vidaenelvalle.com The mayor, who participated in the raising of the Mexican flag Friday morning at City Hall, acknowledged that Latinos, the vast majority of those come from Mexican heritage, are making their presence known. It is no wonder that we have so many people that fly out nightly to either Leon, Guadalajara or Morelia (in Mexico), said Dyer. It is for that reason that we are expanding our airport, adding another terminal so that we can triple the capacity for international flights to Mexico. Assemblymember Joaquin Arambula said state legislators are aware of the role the Mexican consulate plays in the Valley. The work you do here is valued, said Arambula. We see you, we hear you, and were grateful for you. The flag escort from the Autonomous University of Baja California participated in the Grito de Dolores during the Mexican Independence Day celebration at Fresno City College on Sept. 15, 2023. JUAN ESPARZA LOERA/jesparza@vidaenelvalle.com McFarland Mayor Saul Ayon said his citys diverse population includes a substantial and vibrant Mexican-American community whose culture, traditions and contributions enrich the lives of all residents. Gonzalez Carrillo called the cooperation this year between Mexico and Fresno very intense. That included a visit by fire department representatives from Guadalajara and Zapopan, and visits to Mexico by the State Center Community College District that could result in an exchange of students and teachers. Fridays celebration which included performances by Teocalli Cultural Academy and Mariachi Real Zapotiltic was a chance to celebrate Mexicos independence with the community, said the consul. I hope you remember this day and enjoy the party that we have organized for you, the friends and allies of Mexico. Teocalli dancers perform at the Mexican Independence Day celebration at Fresno City College on Sept. 15, 2023. JUAN ESPARZA LOERA/jesparza@vidaenelvalle.com Isacc Torres sang the Mexican national anthem during the Grito de Dolores during the Mexican Independence Day celebration at Fresno City College on Sept. 15, 2023. JUAN ESPARZA LOERA/jesparza@vidaenelvalle.com First test travel of the "Tren Transistmico" passenger train, in southern Mexico MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Monday defended the presence of a Russian military unit in a weekend parade marking Mexico's independence day, following sharp criticism his country had given a platform to forces that invaded Ukraine. Ukraine's ambassador to Mexico, opposition politicians and critical media blasted the decision to allow a Russian unit to participate on Saturday, but Lopez Obrador said Mexico had allowed any country to join in. "We have relations with all countries in the world and we invite everyone," Lopez Obrador said at a regular government press conference after noting that the presence of the Russian unit had sparked a "scandal." Lopez Obrador, a leftist, has sought to keep Mexico neutral in the war between Russia and Ukraine, at one point proposing peace talks. Nonetheless, his government has backed some major U.N. resolutions criticizing Russia's role in the conflict. Ukraine's ambassador to Mexico, Oksana Dramaretska, said on X that the parade had been "sullied" by the participation of a Russian unit which she said was "stained with blood." "How coherent is it Mr. Lopez Obrador with your policy of neutrality and condemnation of aggression against my country?," Dramaretska wrote on the platform formerly known as Twitter. Russia's embassy in Mexico celebrated the 154th Preobrazhenskiy Regiment's participation in the event. "Long live the friendship between Mexico and Russia!," the Russian embassy said on X. Units from Brazil, Chile, China, Venezuela, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Cuba and Nicaragua were among others also taking part. The participation of Nicaragua also came under criticism, with the central American country's government under fire for cracking down on opposition to President Daniel Ortega . Ortega argues his opponents having been trying to engineer a coup. Xochitl Galvez, the main opposition candidate for Mexico's 2024 presidential election, slammed Lopez Obrador, saying on X he had "made it clear that his friends are dictators, not democrats." (Reporting by Valentine Hilaire and Raul Cortes Fernandez; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien) Panos Panay is leaving Microsoft after 19 years with the company, as confirmed via an official tweet. Hes been operating as the chief product officer with Microsoft, heading up Windows 11 development and the companys Surface line. Rajesh Jha, Microsofts vice president of experience and devices, broke the news in an email to employees, as reported by The Verge. Panay was hired on by Microsoft back in 2004 as a group program manager, overseeing a number of premium products. After heading the development of the initial Surface line of tablets and hybrid laptops, he was named the companys chief product officer in 2018. His rise continued in 2021 when he was promoted to executive vice president after a successful Windows 11 launch, eventually becoming involved in a leadership team that directly advised CEO Satya Nadella. Theres been no actual reason given by either party, but Panay says he has decided to turn the page and write the next chapter. The timing here is a bit suspicious, as Microsofts conducting a livestream event on Thursday that will almost certainly be dedicated to new Surface products. We reached out to the company for clarification as to why Panay left his position and what that means moving forward. Well update this post when we hear more. As for whats next, Microsoft has already said that Yusuf Mehdi, Microsofts current corporate vice president of modern life, search and devices, will take Panays place as the head of the Windows and Surface divisions. The company also still seems committed to two areas of the business that Panay consistently championed: integrating AI into Windows 11 and mixed-reality. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said in a statement released to TechCrunch that the company remains steadfast and convicted in our strategy. Well have to see how this unfolds Thursday during Microsofts Surface-centric event. Syrian officials express enthusiasm for Hangzhou Asian Games Xinhua) 11:07, September 18, 2023 DAMASCUS, Sept. 16 (Xinhua) -- Syrian officials have expressed their admiration for the upcoming Asian Games scheduled to commence later this month in Hangzhou, China. Ayman Sousan, Syrian assistant foreign minister, lauded China for hosting the Asian Games. "We warmly welcome China's hosting of these sporting events aimed at bringing Asian peoples closer together, and there is no one better than China to fulfill this role because China treats everyone with respect and wishes prosperity for all," he told Xinhua. Acknowledging China's organizational capabilities, Sousan voiced his optimism about the forthcoming Games. "We are confident that the upcoming Asian Games in China at the end of this month will excel in all areas because we are accustomed to China doing things very well," he said. Furthermore, Sousan extended his best wishes, saying, "We wish friendly China every success in managing and organizing these events, and we are confident in their abilities." Emad Mustafa, former Syrian Ambassador to China, expressed his fondness for the host city, Hangzhou. "Very soon, we will witness the opening of the Asian Games in Hangzhou, and Hangzhou is not only one of the most beautiful cities in China but perhaps one of the most beautiful cities in the world," he told Xinhua. Mustafa also conveyed his trust in China's capability. "We believe that China will once again dazzle the world with excellent organization and highly successful Games. We wish all athletes outstanding success, and best wishes to the great China," he said. (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun) Flash Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Malaysia's Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Nanning, the capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Sept. 17, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua] Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Sunday met with Malaysia's Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Nanning, the capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Li noted that China and Malaysia are good partners working toward common development, and good neighbors that help each other. He said the two sides in March reached an important consensus on the joint construction of a China-Malaysia community with a shared future -- a milestone in the history of bilateral relations. Li observed that next year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral ties. He said that under the guidance of the consensus, China will take the anniversary as an opportunity to work with Malaysia to pass on and deepen the friendship from generation to generation, enhance the level of political mutual trust, and make overall plans for the next stage of bilateral relations and cooperation in various fields. Such cooperation will continuously bring tangible results and benefits to the two peoples, and make greater contributions to regional stability and prosperity. Li expressed China's willingness to enhance the synergy of Malaysia's development strategies and its own, and to continue working together to build a high-quality Belt and Road and implement the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement. China is ready to work on flagship China-Malaysia cooperation projects such as the "Two Countries, Twin Parks" and the East Coast Rail Link, he said. It is willing to work with Malaysia to create new growth points for cooperation on new energy vehicles and the digital economy, promote the continuous expansion and upgrading of bilateral cooperation, and strengthen exchanges in education, scientific research, cultural tourism and local areas, he added. China stands ready to coordinate and cooperate more closely with Malaysia, work together to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea, safeguard the ASEAN-centered regional cooperation framework, and advance the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 negotiations to facilitate regional economic integration, Li said. Anwar said that Malaysia has a high appreciation for China's Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative and Global Civilization Initiative, and is willing to further close exchanges with China at all levels and strengthen cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, the digital economy and green development. He said Malaysia stands ready to enhance exchanges and mutual learning between the two civilizations, strengthen coordination and cooperation on international and regional affairs, and strengthen Malaysia-China relations. Malaysia supports China's accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, he added. $13.8 million has been awarded to Champaign, Clinton, Logan, and Mercer counties, according to a spokesperson from Governor Mike DeWine s (R-OH) office. >>It is trash; Tipp City Chief of Police speaks on recent white supremacist flyers Nearly two dozen communities will receive funding to complete critical infrastructure and neighborhood improvement projects. The goal of these projects is to improve the quality of life for the residents, the spokesperson said. Some of the projects that will be funded include new community centers, upgraded water infrastructure, road and bridge improvements, new fire hydrants, and recreation enhancements. Investing in our communities infrastructure isnt just about building bridges and roads; its about nurturing economic growth and safeguarding the health and well-being of Ohioans. The projects were supporting with this funding underscore our commitment to building a stronger, more prosperous Ohio for all, DeWine said. Seven communities will receive almost $6 million in Neighborhood Revitalization grants, the spokesperson said. Some activities that are eligible for funding include public facility improvements, like construction, reconstructions, or rehabilitation of infrastructure, fire protection facilities, and community centers in low and moderate-income areas. >>Flying taxis to be built in the Miami Valley; Heres why the factorys CEO chose Dayton Ohio is experiencing unprecedented economic growth, so we want to ensure our communities have the resources in place to take advantage of that momentum. Infrastructure is a crucial component of economic development and leads to job creation and improved quality of life for residents. Lt. Governor Jon Husted (OH-R) said. Critical infrastructure awards will be given to 16 communities, which will total $7.8 million, the spokesperson said. This funding will help with high-priority infrastructure improvements with a community-wide impact. Projects must be considered in critical or poor condition to be considered eligible, the spokesperson said. Some of these projects include flood and drainage facilities, water and sanitary sewer facilities, bridge reconstruction, parks and recreation facilities, street reconstruction, and sidewalks. These types of improvements are seldom pretty, and almost always expensive to make, but they can also serve as a welcome mat for companies looking to set up shop in Ohio. Were proud to support these communities in getting these projects over the finish line, Director of the Department of Development Lydia Mihalik said. An F-35 stealth fighter went missing after a pilot ejected during a "mishap" on Sunday afternoon. It's unclear if the jet was left on autopilot and continued flying or if it crashed somewhere. If it kept flying, as reports indicate it may have, it could echo a Cold War incident involving a Soviet aircraft. The curious case of a missing F-35 stealth fighter in South Carolina has authorities and civilians searching high and low, especially considering the jet may have continued flying on its own for some time even after its pilot ejected. As surprising as a rogue jet on autopilot may be, it wouldn't be the first time a military aircraft has flown on without its pilot. Toward the end of the Cold War, for example, one Soviet pilot witnessed his jet fly off without him after he ejected from it and continue flying for over 500 miles. On Sunday afternoon, Joint Base Charleston confirmed a "mishap involving an F-35B Lightning II jet" in which the pilot had to eject. Joint Base Charleston didn't give further details on the incident or what specifically prompted the ejection, but it did request the public's help in locating the missing jet. "Emergency response teams are still trying to locate the F-35," the base said on Facebook, adding on X, the site formerly known as Twitter, that if anyone had "any information that may help our recovery teams locate the F-35," they should call in. Joint Base Charleston (@TeamCharleston) September 17, 2023 Joint Base Charleston also noted efforts to locate the jet would be focused north of the base, "around Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion," based on the jet's last known location, in coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration. Officials haven't confirmed or denied if the jet crashed, although Joint Base Charleston spokesperson Jeremy Huggins told NBC News the jet was left in autopilot mode when the pilot ejected from the aircraft, meaning it could've remained airborne for a time, though as of midday on Monday, authorities were certain it was no longer flying. Flight radar data showed the paths of aircraft searching for the missing F-35 in the areas where it was last tracked. The US Marine Corps and Joint Base Charleston didn't immediately respond to Insider's request for comment on whether or not the autopilot was engaged and the possibility that the aircraft could have flown after the pilot ejected. But if the F-35 was still flying in a so-called "zombie state" after its pilot ejected, the bizarre situation would echo a Cold War-era incident involving a pilotless Soviet MiG-23. In July 1989, Belgium was up in arms after a Soviet MiG-23 fighter jet crashed into a man's home outside the western city of Kortrijk, killing the resident, The New York Times reported at the time. The MiG-23 pilot had apparently ejected while flying over Poland after experiencing an alleged "malfunction." But rather than crashing, the MiG-23 continued flying for around 560 miles on autopilot, easily passing over East and West Germany and the Netherlands before it finally crashed. The Belgian Foreign Minister at the time noted that the jet had been picked up by NATO radar more than an hour before it crashed, yet there was no Soviet response, including to questions about what weaponry the jet was carrying. Another similar incident in which a military aircraft flew on, though not nearly as far, after its pilot ejected is the 1970 "Cornfield Bomber" incident that saw a Convair F-106 Delta Dart interceptor fighter land, surprisingly in one piece, in a farm field in Montana without a pilot. And as for the currently missing F-35, authorities are still having trouble tracking it. Huggins told The Washington Post the jet's transponder, which helps locate the aircraft, was not working "for some reason that we haven't yet determined." The B variant of the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter is a short takeoff/vertical landing variant designed for use by the Marine Corps aboard amphibious assault ships and airfields with short runways. The F-35 is considered to be a highly advanced fifth-generation fighter aircraft known for its high-end capabilities and stealth. Manufactured by Lockheed Martin, the fighter is expensive. A single F-35B is estimated to cost around $100 million, and the 60-year program to develop and maintain the jets is expected to cost more than $1 trillion, making it the costliest weapons program in US history. Read the original article on Business Insider ST. CHARLES PARISH, La. (WGNO) An Oklahoma man was arrested in Georgia on Sunday after he allegedly faked his own death in August during a kayaking trip in Louisiana. St. Charles Parish Sheriff Greg Champagne said Melvin Emde, 41, of Talihina, Oklahoma, was reported missing by his son just after 12 a.m. on Aug. 7. He had reportedly gone overboard and drowned while kayaking on the Mississippi River near Matis Road. The next day, Champagne said deputies learned that Emde was wanted on indecent liberties with a child and statutory rape of a child charges in Brunswick County, North Carolina. He was due in court the same day. NOPD investigating homicide after man found dead in car in Algiers We immediately became quite suspicious that this may have been a faked accidental drowning and death in order for Mr. Emde to escape charges in Brunswick County, North Carolina. However, we could not publicly expose our suspicions for fear of tipping him off, said Champagne. According to Champagne, investigators learned Emde was wearing an ankle monitor and had purchased two prepaid phones from the Boutte Walmart store the day of his reported drowning. Deputies worked with authorities in North Carolina and the U.S. Marshals Service to track the phones. They said Emde used one phone discreetly and turned it on for short periods of time. An initial search focused on Oklahoma until it became clear the phones werent being used anymore. Then, on Sunday around 3:30 a.m., Champagne said a Georgia State Highway Patrol officer tried to pull over a motorcyclist for not having a license plate. The driver allegedly fled, crashed and was eventually arrested. Champagne said the driver gave a fake name, but when he was fingerprinted, officers identified him as Melvin Emde. Now its time for Mr. Emde to face the music for his charges in North Carolina, said Champagne. Anyone with further details about this case can call Detective Joshua Deroche with the St. Charles Parish Sheriffs Office at (985)-783-6807. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. A 62-year-old man with medical issues who was reported missing was found in dense underbrush along a creek south of Rosedale Avenue after a search by members of the Richland County Sheriff's Office, the Ohio Special Response Team, two police K-9s, and the Ontario Police Department's drone. Richland County Sheriff's Office Sheriff J. Steve Sheldon, who responded to the scene, said he wished to thank the Ohio Special Response Team, Ontario police, Madison and Mifflin EMS, and his deputies for conducting the extensive search. "This effort among agencies likely saved this gentlemans life," Sheldon said. At 10:13 a.m. Friday, a family member reported the 62-year-old man with medical issues missing from their residence in the 800 block of Fifth Avenue, according to a news release issued Monday by the sheriff's office. The man was last seen at 1 a.m. Friday and, at 3:46 p.m., a neighbor who resides on Rosedale Avenue was mowing the field across from his residence when they found items belonging to the missing person along the tree line. Deputies responded to the area to coordinate a search of the neighborhood. At 6 p.m., the sheriffs office reached out to the Ohio Special Response Team, which specializes in searches, and OSRT personnel and two of their K-9s began the search along with other law-enforcement officials. At 11 p.m., OSRT located the missing person along a creek a quarter-mile south of Rosedale in dense underbrush. The missing person needed medical treatment. Madison and Mifflin EMS and the sheriffs office assisted OSRT in removing the person from the dense area. lwhitmir@gannett.com 419-521-7223 X (formerly Twitter): @lwhitmir This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Missing man, 62, with medical issues, found alive after search Friday Theres a strong feeling of deja vu in Mississippi politics. When Haley Barbour began his successful 2003 gubernatorial campaign, he criticized Democratic incumbent Ronnie Musgrove for expanding the states welfare rolls. Barbour was referring to the fact that during the Musgrove administration, enrollment in the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP) increased significantly.When Musgrove took office in January 2000, a little more than 12,000 Mississippi children were signed up for the health insurance program that was enacted by Congress in 1997. When Musgrove left office, defeated by Barbour in his 2003 reelection bid, almost 83,000 children were enrolled in the program. CHIP is a federal program that provides health insurance for children of the working poor parents who make too much money to qualify for Medicaid, but work in jobs where employer-based insurance is not provided and their pay makes purchasing insurance prohibitive. Musgrove was proud that his administration increased enrollment in CHIP. He viewed obtaining health insurance for children who otherwise would not have it as a good thing. After all, the federal government was paying the bulk of the cost. In Mississippi politics, the more things change the more they stay the same. This year, 20 years later, Democrat Brandon Presley is challenging Republican incumbent Gov. Tate Reeves and is making Medicaid expansion a focus of his campaign. Presley has argued it would be good to expand Medicaid like 40 other states have done to provide health insurance for primarily the working poor, with the federal government again paying the bulk of the cost. Reeves, who could be considered a Haley Barbour disciple, has said he is opposed to the expansion of government run health care. Reeves has said that he supports people getting health insurance through good paying jobs, not through a government program. It is reasonable to assume that people want good paying jobs that offer health insurance. But after a decade of not expanding Medicaid and waiting for those good paying jobs, Mississippi still has the nations fifth highest rate of uninsured residents. All 40 states that have expanded Medicaid have lower uninsured rates. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, Mississippis uninsured rate as of 2021 was 11.9%. Two states that Reeves says he wants to emulate because they have no income tax Texas and Florida are among the four states with higher rates of people without health insurance than Mississippi. Texas is first with an uninsured rate of 18% and Florida is fourth with a rate of 12.1%. The other state that Reeves likes to tout because of the absence of a state income tax neighboring Tennessee has an uninsured rate of 10.1%. The national uninsured rate is 8.6%. Two of the three Southeastern states that have expanded Medicaid Kentucky and Louisiana have a smaller percentage of people without health insurance than the national average. The third state, Arkansas, has a percentage of uninsured slightly above the national average. Every state has some uninsured residents. Massachusetts is the lowest with an uninsured rate of 2.5%. Some healthy people will not sign up for health insurance even if Medicaid expansion is available. But surely more people with insurance is better than fewer people with insurance. And for struggling health care providers in Medicaid expansion states especially hospitals they have the option to help the uninsured sign up for Medicaid if those people are undergoing expensive medical procedures with no ability to pay. All three governors of Southern states that expanded Medicaid said during recent interviews with Mississippi Today that they believed it was better for those treatments to be paid through Medicaid than the other options. Those other options include: The medical providers passing the costs on to private insurance and to those with private insurance. Medical providers, especially hospitals, closing or dramatically cutting back services because of the money they are losing on uncompensated care. Former Mississippi Gov. John Bell Williams recognized these facts way back in 1969 when he convinced the Legislature to opt into the original Medicaid program. Previously, as a member of Congress, Williams had voted against creating Medicaid. But later as governor, Williams told legislators, In fairness, I must point out that my philosophical reasons for resisting the program as a member of the United States Congress is neither relevant nor applicable to the present issue before us. The program is a reality. It is available to our state and now devolves wholly into a question of whether you, in your wisdom, should determine our participation will be in the best interests of our state and people. Haley Barbour, too, recognized this after he was elected governor in 2003. Though he railed against the CHIP program during the 2003 campaign against Musgrove, he did nothing to try to roll it back during his two terms as governor. Theres a strong feeling of deja vu in Mississippi politics. This analysis was produced by Mississippi Today, a nonprofit news organization that covers state government, public policy, politics and culture. Bobby Harrison is Mississippi Todays senior Capitol reporter. Do the states of Missouri or Kansas owe you money? Its more likely than you might think. Every year, state treasurers offices collect millions of dollars in unclaimed property. This can include payroll checks, tax returns, insurance proceeds and the contents of safe deposit boxes and closed bank accounts. In Missouri, an estimated one in 10 residents is owed money by the state, with the average return totaling around $300. In Kansas, the state owes residents a total of over $346 million nearly $120 per each person in the states population. You dont need to be a current resident of Missouri or Kansas to search their unclaimed property records, and there is no time limit to claim property the state is holding onto. Heres how to find out whether either state owes you money, and how to claim it for free. How do I claim my missing money in Missouri? The state of Missouri owes its residents over $1 billion, according to state treasurer Vivek Maleks unclaimed property website. The hefty sum has earned the unclaimed property program the nickname Missouris Largest Lost and Found. In order to see if Missouri is holding onto your unclaimed property, simply enter your name, a business name or a property ID number into the states online Unclaimed Property Search Portal. You can perform a name-based search using only a last name. If there are any results that match your search, they will appear in a table showing a property ID number, the property owners name, their full address and the amount of the property. If the amount is larger than $50, the table will simply list it as Over $50. If you see a property listing with your name and a current or former address you recognize, click the Add button to add it to your virtual cart. You can then create a claim for the property by entering your contact information and some identifying details like your Social Security number and date of birth. Searching for and claiming your unclaimed property is free in Missouri. You can file a property claim for yourself or another person by stating your relationship to them. For example, you can file a claim for a deceased persons property if you are the heir to their estate. You dont need to create an account in order to file a claim, but doing so will allow you to log back in later and track your claims progress. The website does not provide a time frame for receiving your property. How do I claim my missing money in Kansas? Kansas owes Johnson County residents over $67 million, and Wyandotte County residents over $22 million. The state doesnt charge anything for searching or claiming this missing money. Search for unclaimed property in Kansas by entering a last name, business name or property ID into the states online unclaimed property search page. You can also make a name search more specific by adding a first name, address or ZIP code. The search results in Kansas contain slightly more information than in Missouri: They list details like the property type and its holder, which can include an insurance company, a bank, a utility company or a business. The claim amount is listed as only Under $100 or Over $100. If you find a claim you think is yours, choose the Claim button on the listing and select Continue to File Claim at the bottom of the page. Then, follow the steps to file a claim for the property online. You should receive a Claim ID number when you file, which will allow you to look up the status of your claim in the future. The claim review process can take up to 90 days, and department staff will contact you if they need additional information or documents. Do you have more questions about unclaimed property in Missouri or Kansas? Ask the Service Journalism team at kcq@kcstar.com. Conference realignment is again at the forefront of the changing college sports landscape. Recent months have seen significant movement across the country for NCAA Division I schools, with college football acting as the driving force behind widespread changes in conference affiliation set to take effect next summer. The Pac-12 quartet of Oregon, Southern California, UCLA and Washington are leaving for the Big Ten. Former Pac-12 schools California and Stanford are set to join SMU (currently of the American Athletic Conference) as new members of the ACC. The Big 12 which already welcomed BYU, Central Florida, Cincinnati and Houston this offseason will add Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado and Utah next year. Of course, departing Big 12 members Oklahoma and Texas will be joining Kentucky in the SEC, a high-profile change that will push the conference to 16 members. And thats only a brief summary of the major conference changes set to begin next school year. When speaking at the Lexington Forum this month as part of a moderated conversation, UK athletics director Mitch Barnhart described the factors behind these changes. Conference realignment, theres all sorts of reasons for it, Barnhart said. Some of its driven out of media packages, some of its driven out of competitiveness. To illustrate just how chaotic conference realignment has become, take a look at the Sept. 9 college football contest between Oklahoma and SMU. This year, that game was a Big 12 versus American Athletic Conference contest. In 2027, when those two teams are scheduled to complete their home-and-home series, it will be an SEC versus ACC game. And who knows what additional conference realignment will occur between now and then? (In 2024, the SEC will play an eight-game football schedule without divisions. Barnhart said conversations are ongoing for what the SEC football schedule will look like for the 2025 season and beyond.) But something thats been paramount in the discourse following this recent round of realignment is the effects it will have on travel for student-athletes, in particular for non-football sports. From mens basketball to volleyball, concerns have been raised about the logistics of traveling across the country for weeknight games. In early August, former Kentucky and Louisville (and current St. Johns mens basketball head coach) Rick Pitino was one of several head coaches to criticize this new-look landscape. Doesn't it make more sense for football to break away to separate leagues and allow the rest of the sports to compete regionally? Rivalries remain n minor sports don't spend half their day looking for bad food at airport restaurants!!! Rick Pitino (@RealPitino) August 6, 2023 Barnhart discussed the academic challenges posed to student-athletes with long-distance trips for games. If were flying (student-athletes) across the country from East Coast to West Coast to compete, they compete and then theyre having to come home, I dont know that thats in the best interest of our student-athletes, Barnhart said. During a question-and-answer period with guests during his Lexington Forum appearance, Barnhart was directly asked if this current model of college sports is sustainable into the future. Financial sustainability, thats one issue. Academic, educational sustainability, thats another issue. Socially, hanging in there socially with it and trying to figure out how to make it all work, thats another issue, Barnhart said. Theres multiple issues in terms of sustaining it. University of Kentucky athletics director Mitch Barnhart said there are multiple issues that need addressing in the world of college sports. Logistics for Kentucky with Oklahoma, Texas joining SEC Kentucky shouldnt be substantially affected by the additions of Oklahoma and Texas to the SEC, at least from a travel aspect. The farthest SEC outpost from Lexington (based on miles away via car trip) is currently Texas A&M in College Station, Texas, at 973 miles. Oklahoma (851 miles) checks in below that number while Texas (1,069 miles) is slightly above. This pales in comparison to the new reality of schools like Oregon and Rutgers (separated by more than 2,900 miles by car) that now have to play each other in a variety of sports, many of them being non-revenue sports. When discussing the additions of Oklahoma and Texas to the SEC, Barnhart pointed out that these two schools already fit within the existing SEC footprint. A trip to Austin, Texas, is literally 10 minutes longer flight time than it is to go to Texas A&M for us, Barnhart said. To go to Norman, Oklahoma, is the exact same amount of time as it is to get to Texas A&M for us in a charter, on our flights. So were not extending the boundaries of where were competing, which is really, really important for me. Barnhart praised SEC commissioner Greg Sankey for his efforts to maintain the conferences footprint. We added two schools in this expansion that were going to go someplace, Barnhart said. Having them in our footprint, having them in our competitive environment It makes it competitively hard. It, obviously, makes us stronger as a whole. It gives us strength as a conference to be able to go publicly about our conference television packages and things like that, which is clearly what is funding most of our programs. Does NIL help or hurt recruiting in college sports? Kentucky AD Mitch Barnhart weighs in. (Reuters) - More than 50 Colombian state entities and private companies were hit by a cyber attack last week, Colombian President Gustavo Petro told journalists in New York. Internet service provider IFX Networks last week reported it was the victim of a ransomware attack, which saw dozens of Colombian organizations affected. Without naming the company, Petro said the wider impact of the attack showed IFX Networks did not have the right "cybersecurity measures" in place and put the company in breach of its contracts. Earlier on Monday, Colombia's Minister for Information, Technology and Communications Mauricio Lizcano said on messaging platform X that he had ordered administrative actions to be launched against IFX Networks. "We are coordinating ... a civil lawsuit and possibly a criminal case (against the company)," Lizcano said. IFX Networks understands the complexity of the incident and the problems it has caused for affected clients, the company said in a statement on its website. "Thanks to the swift detection and action of our team, we were able to limit the potential reach of the attack and considerably contain the number of affected systems," the statement said. (Reporting by Oliver Griffin; editing by Timothy Gardner) A historically Black college is now welcoming international students for the first time in more than 20 years. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Morris Brown College lost its accreditation in 2002 and just regained it last year. Without accreditation, Morris Brown students could not get federal financial aid or international student visas. TRENDING STORIES: This milestone will allow educational opportunities for international students from around the world. We are thrilled by the reinstatement of the F-1 Visa at Morris Brown College - this is a historic occasion! I would like to express my gratitude to the team for their hard work and dedication in making this possible, President Kevin James said. According to James, Morris Brown has a tuition fee of $4,250 per semester. In order to be eligible, international students must enroll as full-time students at the college, demonstrate proficiency in English or be enrolled in courses designed to improve English skills, provide proof of financial resources to support their studies in the United States, and possess ties to their home country that indicate their intention to return after completing their education in the United States. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: (Reuters) - Russia fired cruise missiles at mock targets in the seas separating it from Alaska on Monday in what it said was an exercise to protect its northern shipping route in the Arctic. The defence ministry said Vulcan, Granit and Onyx cruise missiles were fired over distances of hundreds of kilometres to strike targets simulating enemy ships in the Bering Sea. The exercise involved land-, ship- and submarine-launched missiles and included about 10,000 military personnel, as well as planes and helicopters, the ministry said. The drills took place on Russia's Chukotka peninsula and in the Chukchi and Bering Seas, and were supervised by Admiral Nikolai Yevmenov, commander-in-chief of the Russian navy. Russia is keen to demonstrate its continued ability to project force in the Arctic and the far east despite the strains on its armed forces from the 18-month war in Ukraine. Moscow said last year it planned to spend almost $30 billion by 2035 on developing the northern sea route, which has become more viable as climate change has reduced sea ice in the Arctic. It runs across the top of Russia from Murmansk near the borders with Norway and Finland to the Bering Strait near Alaska. President Vladimir Putin highlighted the importance of the route in a speech to the BRICS group of countries last month, saying Russia was planning to construct new ports and fuel terminals and expand its icebreaker fleet. (Writing by Mark Trevelyan; Editing by Kevin Liffey) In the world of The Walking Dead, theyre simply everywhere. They reek, theyre always moaning and groaning, and more often than not theyre deadly. Im not talking about the zombies. Im talking about this franchises endlessly awful kids. The legends of Walking Deads obnoxious, sometimes truly messed-up children precede themmostly through ranked lists like Every Major Kid On The Walking Dead Ranked From Terrible To The Worst. From the very beginning, we had Carl Grimeswho wanted nothing more than to be like his father and spent his first several seasons messing everything up instead. But as the series trudged on, the kids got more and more despicable; at this point, weve seen cowardly shriekers, sullen teens, and undead brats galoreenough to fill, say, a barn. Now, the new spin-off The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon has given us a new desperately annoying child protagonist named Laurent. Much like HBOs zombified hit The Last of Us, Daryl Dixon follows its scruffy hero as he escorts a Chosen child to safety. Unfortunately for all of us, the Rubiks cube-toting prodigy Laurent is just as insufferable as the rest of this universes young progeny. But where, exactly, does he fit in? Lets break these cantankerous kids into categories and find out. Tyler James Williams as Noah and Emily Kinney as Beth Greene Gene Page/AMC The End-Times Overachievers These endlessly ambitious try-hards are some of the most common young specimens in the Walking Dead universe. In a way, its understandablewe all want to do our part to help scratch out an existence in the apocalypse, especially if our Daddy happens to be, like, the Sheriff. Unfortunately for these would-be heroes, theyre usually prone to awful decision-making skills (looking at you, Carl Grimes) and delusions of grandeur (hi, Henry of the Kingdom, and also Iris Bennett of The Walking Dead: World Beyond). Eventually, these characters also tend to fall into some extremely ill-advised romances. (Henry is definitely guilty of this, being that he dated Lydia when doing so was still a huge risk, as is Carlat least, in the comics.) The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon Cant Shake The Last of Us Comparisons So far, Laurent feels like a shoo-in for this category. A multilingual know-it-all, Laurent is the gravitational center around which Daryl Dixons entire show revolvesand yet, he seems pathologically incapable of making even one good decision. Eventually, he makes a choice so unbelievably horrendous that Daryl is left sputtering and shouting in disbelief, demanding to know why he did it. The reason is understandable, if Im being honest, but the action is absolutely not. Send this kid to the post-apocalyptic Hague! The Rebels Without a Cause Equally ubiquitous in this dirty, sweaty world are teenagers whose resentment can sometimes fester into foolishness. Enid loved to break out of Alexandria to tromp around the woods and seemed to enjoy nothing more than blowing off her friends to instead just survive somehow on her own. Ron Anderson (played by a young Austin Abrams!) tried to kill Carl to avenge his abusive father after Rick killed himand if Im being honest, I was extremely grateful when Michonne ran him through with her katana. Austin Abrams as Ron Gene Page/AMC And lets not forget the ceaselessly grumpy Chris Manawa, who mightve been Fear the Walking Deads worst characters of all time. He was whiny; he was morose; he was selfish; he was just plain intolerable. How satisfying that ultimately, it was his own awful choices that killed him. Then again, its also a pity, because after another season or so, he couldve made a good antagonist. Speaking of which The Pint-Sized Villains Sometimes, the kids are worse than not alright; sometimes, they turn out to be some of the most bone-chilling villains. I will never forgive Fear the Walking Deads Charlie for killing Nick Clarkone of my favorite characters in the entire franchise, bad decisions and all. But the real juggernaut of this category is Lizzie Samuels, a kid so messed up that Carol Peletier tearfully shot her in the back of the head. Melissa Suzanne McBride as Carol and Brighton Sharbino as Lizzie Gene Page/AMC For anyone whos forgotten Season 4s The Grove, its worth remembering one of The Walking Deads most haunting episodes: Lizzies father charged her to take care of her little sister, Mika, as he died from a zombie bite. Unfortunately, she lost her grip with reality and became attached to the undead, whom she believed spoke to her. Carol and Tyreese were horrified one day to discover her standing over Mikas dead body, waiting for her to come back to life as a compassionate, intelligent zombie. When Lizzie made clear she was coming for Judith next, Carol did the unthinkable and killed her ward, standing behind her and whispering, Look at the flowers. The Fraidy Cat ListenI know that the zombie apocalypse is a terrifying environment for a young boy, and Sam Anderson also grew up with a horrible father And also, Carols terrifying threat to leave him out in the woods to get eaten by zombies probably didnt help. So yes, Im probably being way too hard on little Sam when I say he is one of the most annoying young characters this franchise ever spawned. His mother didnt help by refusing to prepare him for reality, either. Still, hes a deeply unflattering reflection of how we would all probably act during a zombie apocalypse. He grew up sheltered from zombies, and so, unlike Rick and his crew, when he sees one, he screams and cries. Its relatable! But at the end of the day, as Sam finds out, its also no way to stay alive. Alycia Debnam-Carey as Alicia Clark and Alexa Nisenson as Charlie Ryan Green/AMC The Undead Menaces Far be it from me to blame the Governors villainy on his undead, four-foot-tall child. That man turned Woodbury into a township of horrors all on his own. Still, his motivation was his grotesque, decomposing daughter, Penny Blakewhom he kept fed and clothed, even going so far as to brush her hair. You simply hate to see it!!! And while it might be unfair to call Carols poor daughter Sophia Peletier a menace, the groups ongoing search for her did essentially tank the second season. She was a sweet, lovable soul when she was alive, but by the time we found her zombified corpse in Hershels barn at the end of The Walking Deads sophomore season, I was more than ready to never hear her name again. Clemence Poesy as Isabelle and Louis Puech Scigliuzzi as Laurent Stephanie Branchu/AMC The Exceptions Not every kid on The Walking Dead was bad; as always, we have a few exceptions to prove the rule. Lizzies poor little sister Mika was a total sweetheart, as was Beth Greenewho started out frustrating but eventually grew into one of the shows most reliable sources of light. (That is, until they killed her in a blindingly ill-conceived mid-season twist.) Lydia was a smart and resourceful survivor with a deep well of empathy, even in spite of her cruel upbringing at the hands of Whisperer leader Alpha. Sleep Is a Horror Movie Nightmarein the Best Way And then, of course, theres Judith Grimesa child character so perfect, she almost delves into Mary Sue territory. (Then again, what else should we have expected from Rick Grimess baby, dubbed Ass-Kicker by Daryl Dixon himself?) The Walking Dead might be overrun with useless kids and surly teens, but this one was clearly there to redeem them all. Keep obsessing! Sign up for the Daily Beasts Obsessed newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. FAIRFIELD TOWNSHIP - A Butler County man is dead after a three-vehicle crash involving a motorcycle Sunday night. Stephen Stocks, 42, of Liberty Twp. was identified Monday by the Butler County Coroner as the man killed in the crash. The crash happened around 9:25 p.m. on state Route 4 at Millikan Road in Fairfield Twp. involving a motorcycle and car, a police spokesperson said in a media release. >> Man dead after motorcycle crash in Preble County News Center 7 has learned that a preliminary investigation indicates that the motorcycle operator slowed or stopped at the northbound State Route 4 intersection at Millikin Road. The driver of a 2005 Toyota car was traveling north when it struck the motorcycle from behind, throwing Stocks from his motorcycle and onto the roadway, according to the Fairfield Township Police Department. A second car also traveling north hit Stocks after he was thrown from the bike. Despite providing life-saving measures, Stocks was pronounced dead at the scene, police said. Police spoke with both drivers of the cars after the crash. It was not known if any charges or citations were pending against either car driver. Potential factors in the crash were also not released and are still under investigation. If you have information that can help police, youre asked to call the Fairfield Township Police Investigations Section at (513) 785-1463. Few people have the grit to investigate the beating death of a prisoner, coverage that landed 10 deputies in prison, and the grace to battle cancer without complaint the way Robin Fitzgerald Eyman did. The long-time Sun Herald crime and courts reporter died of cancer Friday at home with her family around her. She was five days from her 68th birthday. She was just so kind, generous, compassionate, said DeWayne Watson, her pastor at Coast Life Church in Gulfport. As a crime reporter, she interviewed many people about traumatic events. They were blessed to be able to talk to a reporter who cared, he said. Stan Tiner, Eymans executive editor at the Sun Herald, called her a talented and brave journalist. Robin was not large in stature, but she was unafraid, and covered the news with a sense of fairness and was always dedicated to finding and reporting the truth, Tiner said. She suffered many health challenges through the years that brought her significant and constant pain, but she always pushed through with grace and good humor. I will always remember her powerful stories, but also her enduring smile and laughter. Shining in her journalism career Eyman discovered journalism at an early age. She was 16 years old when she started writing for her hometown newspaper in Brundidge, Alabama. She earned a journalism degree from Troy University in Alabama, where she was editor of her student newspaper. She was publicity coordinator for Treasure Bay Casino and Hotel in Biloxi before she went to work as a reporter for the Sun Herald in May 2000, a position she held for almost 19 years. Eyman relished her job. She wrote under the byline Robin Fitzgerald, her name before she met the love of her life, Rick Eyman, and married him in December 2017. Robin was widely admired in the community, especially among the law enforcement officers with whom she spoke daily. Robin was not swayed by politics or public opinion, Biloxi Police Chief John Miller said. Throughout her career, she maintained moral character and integrity and was true to the ethics of her profession. Her love of the Mississippi Gulf Coast community was easily recognized by the compassion and empathy one felt while reading her stories. Robin was truly a respected and admired old-school journalist who will be sorely missed by so many. Prizes and praise She was a member of the Sun Herald team that won journalisms highest honor, the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service, for coverage of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. She also was nominated for a Pulitzer for her coverage of the death of jail inmate Jessie Lee Williams at the hands of a Harrison County jailer and the cover-up of inmate abuse by other jailers. When she accepted a buyout that allowed her to retire early, Robin wrote: My most memorable stories include allowing families of homicide victims to tell me who they were so they would not be not known just for how they died; working in grueling conditions after Hurricane Katrina and covering the killing of an inmate at the Harrison County jail, uncovering a pattern of abuse and reporting on prosecutions that sent 10 officers to prison. Robin met Harrison County Sheriff Troy Peterson soon after he began his career in 1998 as a narcotics officer with the sheriffs department. When we made a big arrest, she was the first person to blow up my phone for a press release, Peterson said. She was someone I could trust and someone who would always listen and report the whole story. When I retired for the first time to run for sheriff, she was the first to call and congratulate me. She was a friend and will be truly missed. Retired DIberville Police Chief Wayne Payne recalls how Robin wrote a story about his granddaughter, who was born three months premature, and how the community could donate blood to help the family. When Payne retired as Gulfport police chief, Eyman showed up at his retirement party. Ill always remember her telling me, Im not a reporter tonight, he said. She was there to support my achievement, and I thought that was pretty neat. She was always a genuine person. Love of her life comes along Robin was always careful about checking her stories once she had written them. Editor Blake Kaplan recalls that he used to get evening texts from her, asking why he had added a comma or made other changes. She wanted to learn and to make sure her stories were correct. While Robin was always intent on getting the story first and getting it right, she had a big heart and always felt compassion for crime victims and their families. She also had a lively sense of humor that helped temper the many tragic stories she heard and wrote over the years. She said in her retirement story: My job led to heart-warming correspondence from readers, and the cursing of people angry over what Id written about them. I understand human nature more than ever. Retirement allowed Robin to spend time with the family she loved and to enjoy her garden. She and her husband discovered Mexico Beach, Florida, a spot they loved to visit. I loved her from the moment I saw her, thats the truth, Rick Eyman said. They met at church, where his mother always told him he would find a good woman. We were able to develop a relationship based on God, based on faith . . . It was truly remarkable. He was impressed by her spirituality and how she shared her faith with others. She made me a better man, he said. Rick and Robin Eyman Family bids farewell She loved Mexican food, watching crime shows on television, leading a womens Bible study and hosting another church group at home with her husband. Even while she worked hard, Robin kept a watchful eye over her children. I wanted to keep her forever, but am relieved she is in no more pain, said her oldest, Courtney Sangster. Her son, Kyle Rebstock, traveled from Georgia to spend his moms final days with her and the rest of the family. Her strength, wisdom, and patience have taught me everything Ive needed in my life and I cant imagine a world without her, he wrote on Facebook. Her youngest daughter, Alicia Fitzgerald, said her mom was her best friend and she would miss talking to her every day. Robin also is survived by her son Michael Rebstock, along with stepsons, Charles and Rick Eyman Jr., and stepdaughter Ruth Eyman. Robins mother, Julia Caldwell, lived with the family in their Gulfport home during her final years. Grandson Jacob Pemberton was her joy and spent many overnight visits with MayMay and the family. Robin also was preceded in death by brothers Keith and Kim Caldwell and their father, Harold Caldwell. Memorial services A celebration of Robins life will be held at Coast Life Church at 11975 Seaway Road in Gulfport, with visitation beginning at 3:30 p.m. and a memorial service at 4 p.m. on Sept. 24. Robin was an icon on our Gulf Coast, as a person, as a member of the media and as a member of the community, said Gulfports Chief Administrative Officer, Leonard Papania, who as a former police chief worked with Robin for many years. It just breaks my heart to lose her on all those levels. Those who followed her cancer battle on Facebook were inspired by her grace and humor. Denise Andrews Bissell wrote: Robin Eyman you are so beautiful! Inside and outside. Your faith is a beacon for the whole world to see! Four male teens ages 17 and 18 were involved in an early morning crash Saturday that left the driver dead and a passenger seriously injured. Braden Charles Miller, 18, died at the scene, said Harrison County Coroner Brian Switzer. The crash happened at 2:48 a.m. Miller was driving westbound between the Biloxi River Bridge and the Cowan-Lorraine Road exit 38 when his Dodge Charger crashed after crossing the bridge. Speed was definitely a factor, Switzer said. Miller was not wearing a seatbelt. Investigators said that before the car left the road, it was traveling an estimated 147 mph. When it hit the trees on the edge of the road, The vehicle disintegrated on impact, according to the Gulfport Police report. One of the teens in the car was taken to the hospital by life flight transported with serious injuries, said Sgt. Jason DuCre with Gulfport Police Department. The other two teens in the vehicle were not seriously injured, he said. Miller, who was known as Brado, was a 2023 graduate of St. Martin High School and a student at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College in Gautier. A visitation will be Wednesday from 3-5 p.m. at Riemann Family Funeral Home, 13872 Lemoyne Blvd. in west Jackson County. A Go Fund Me account has been set up for the family to help with expenses. Marjorie Taylor Greene has a notorious reputation for a lot of things, but not her ability to sus out clearly bogus internet hoaxes. The Georgia congresswoman on Monday shared a video purporting to show a mother walking into her sons classroom, tearing down a Pride flag, and arguing with the teacher. Greene was apparently unaware that the video was staged. GOD BLESS THIS MAMA!!!!! Greene wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter). I stand with her!!! Teachers are paid by taxpayers the PARENTS!!! Get the LGBTQ propaganda out of the schools! GOD BLESS THIS MAMA!!!!! I stand with her!!! Teachers are paid by taxpayers the PARENTS!!! Get the LGBTQ propaganda out of the schools! pic.twitter.com/HmdjPhDgkr Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) September 18, 2023 The video Greene shared depicted a woman walking into a classroom of students and tearing a Pride flag off the wall before throwing it in the trash. The woman, who is presented as the mother of one of the students in the room, then berates the teacher for wasting her tax dollars on LGBTQ representation and teaching her son things shes trying to keep them away from. None of this actually happened, though. The clip was a small part of a six-minute comedy sketch posted Saturday on Facebook by a content creator known as Jibrizy. In the last 20 seconds of the full video, Jibrizy and the cast of the sketch appear in front of the camera and disclose that the video is fake. Hey guys, this was all a skit, Jibrizy says, asking the audience for their opinion on the situation. Comment down below, we cant wait to read your comments. Staged rage-bait videos are a staple of Jibrizys content. The classroom depicted in the Pride-flag video is a staple set for many of his posts. In another recent video, captioned Karen tries to give a man a flyer and gets rejected, Jibrizy spars with a young woman offering him an otherwise blank piece of paper with the Black Lives Matter logo printed on it. Other sketches on his TikTok implement a fake podcast format, with Jibrizy and fellow content creators rambling off hot takes as women clad in barely-there lingerie mill around in the background. Jibrizy did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Rolling Stone. The edited version of Jibrizys Pride flag video has been widely shared by a slew of prominent conservative commentators. Parents have HAD it with the work agenda-pushing in class, tweeted commentator Megyn Kelly, who after realizing the incident was staged added that her family dealt with this kind of nonsense for YEARS in NYC. Worse, actually. It was all too real. Other right wing influencers, including Oli London, the Hodge Twins, and Covid truther Dr. Anastasia Maria Loupis, also shared the edited video and praised the mother for her actions Greene took a similar approach to Kelly after realizing shed fallen for a hoax. If this is a fake or a skit, its a very good representation of exactly how people feel, she wrote. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Click here to read the full article. Tech billionaire Elon Musk and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan discussed the prospect of building Teslas newest factory in Turkey, at a meeting Monday in New York. Erdogan, who is in New York for the United Nations General Assembly meeting, made his case to Musk, the chief executive of Tesla and SpaceX, that Turkey would be an attractive location for the next Tesla factory, Turkeys state media Anadolu Agency reported. Erdogan cited the countrys technological breakthroughs and vision in artificial intelligence (AI). President Erdogan stated that opportunities for collaboration with SpaceX may arise through the steps taken and to be taken as part of Turkiyes space program and invited Musk to Teknofest to be held in Izmir, according to a statement from the countrys communications directorate. Anadolu Agency reported that Musk said that Turkey was among the most important candidates in selecting the next factory, noting that there were already many Turkish suppliers working with Tesla. He also responded to the offer to cooperate with SpaceXs Starlink service and AI advancements by saying he would need to work with authorities to obtain the necessary licensing, the state media said, citing the official communications directorate statement. After Musk said he would likely pick a location for a new factory by the end of the year, many world leaders have been courting him to invest in their respective countries. Musk recently announced he would build a factory in Mexico. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) hit back at former President Donald Trump over his claim in a new interview with Meet the Press anchor Kristen Welker that Pelosi was somehow to blame for the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection. The former occupant of the White House has always been about projection. He knows hes responsible for that, so he projects it onto others, Pelosi told MSNBCs Jonathan Capehart on Sunday. Shame on him. However, he always projects, she added. Pelosi also shot down Trumps claim that she turned down soldiers on the day of the violence, saying she repeatedly begged him to send in troops. These Trumpites were attacking the Capitol, fighting the police, threatening my life and the life of the vice president, she recalled. There is a sickness here, and there has to be an intervention, Pelosi added. That intervention has to be the election, which we have to win, and thats one of the reasons why I am running again, to fight for our democracy, which is at stake if he is on the ballot. Pelosi on MSNBC on Trump blaming her for January 6: "The former occupant of the White House has always been about projection. He knows he's responsible for that, so he projects it onto others ... shame on him." pic.twitter.com/gg4h5bRQqO Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) September 17, 2023 Related... With government interest in unidentified aerial phenomena (UAPs) skyrocketing, NASA has announced its first-ever "UFO czar" after initially declining to do so out of concerns for his safety. In a press release last week, NASA named its new director of UAP research, longtime civil servant Mark McInerney, in response to calls for the agency to "play a more prominent role in understanding" the phenomena and, it seems, because people started threatening the agency and people associated with it. Last week, the agency held a press conference pegged to the release of an independent report about UAPs and announced that it was appointing a head of UAP research. However, NASA refused to name that person at the time because members of the study panel had been subjected to jeers and threats, as Politico and other outlets reported. "Thats in part why we are not splashing the name of our new director out there, because science needs to be free," Dan Evans, NASA's assistant deputy associate administrator, told reporters at the time. "Some of [the incidents] rose to actual threats." The incident highlights how much of a hot-button topic UAPs have become as of late. With government organizations like NASA taking recent reports of UFO sightings more seriously, we've seen a resurgence of conspiracy theories surrounding the existence of government cover-ups, and other far-fetched theories pertaining to the existence of extraterrestrial life. Despite NASA's efforts to protect McInerney's identity, the agency eventually gave in to the pressure. Nicola Fox, an associate NASA administrator, put it even more bluntly when asked directly by reporters about the new director's identity, saying "we will not give his name out." Later that same day, however, NASA sent out an update that named McInerny as its new director with no apparent explanation as to the about-face. It's still unclear why the agency released McInerny's name after initially declining to do so, and Futurism has reached out to NASA for clarity about that decision. The institutional need for a "UFO czar" came as a recommendation from the study, which was led by David Spergel of the Simons Foundation. Among other things, the study panel called on NASA to work in tandem with other government agencies including the Pentagon, for which McInerney used to be a liaison at NASA to study UAPs, as Time reports. As Spergel told the magazine, folks "harassed some of our panel members," which he rightfully characterized as "very inappropriate behavior." On the whole, it's a win for the pursuit of science in the face of the persistent stigma surrounding UFO research but NASA's lack of disclosure about why McInerny was initially not named only serves to muddle the issue. Given the jeers and abuse, it's clear that NASA still has a long way to go before its investigations into UAPs are fully taken seriously by the public, something that will only serve to impede the scientific process. More on UFOs: Pentagon Launches Website to Watch Declassified UFO Videos RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) The National Hurricane Center is monitoring an area for potential tropical development off the Carolinas. As of the initial outlook, meteorologists are forecasting a 20% chance of development over the next seven days. The low likelihood for development is typical this far in advance, as the system is not expected to become organized until later this week. However, if trends continue, the likelihood of development is expected to increase, according to WNCN Meteorologist Lance Blocker. What does it mean for Central North Carolina? As of now, the two primary forecast models are signaling very different outcomes. The latest American GFS forecast model shows a potential tropical storm developing northeast of Florida, and then moving inland over South Carolina. That scenario would generate widespread rain Friday night through Sunday morning in Central North Carolina. However, the European ECMWF forecast model shows a non-tropical low forming just offshore of South Carolina, and then moving northeast. If the European forecast were to be correct, it would mean heavy rain along the coast next weekend, but much lower forecast totals inland. Blocker cautioned that either forecast model has a very low probability of being accurate at this point, and this is just something to keep an eye on but not for which to alter plans. Hurricane Nigel Meanwhile, Nigel strengthened into a hurricane overnight, becoming the 14th named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season. According to the National Hurricane Center, Nigel is expected to rapidly strengthen by Tuesday, the National Hurricane Center said. The NHC said the storm is located about 935 miles east-southeast of Bermuda and is moving toward the northwest near 12 mph. Nigel is forecast to turn northward late Tuesday and then accelerate northeastward through the rest of the week. Nigels winds have increased to 80 mph, with higher gusts. Meteorologists said Nigel is forecast to rapidly strengthen into a major hurricane on Tuesday. It could start weakening late Wednesday. As of Mondays forecast, the NHC has Nigel staying out to sea. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. With the fall colors starting to come in, and cooler winter months not long off, you may be trying to get out and enjoy the weather. Youll have a great opportunity on Saturday when all U.S. national parks will be free to enter. Saturday is one of five days the National Park Service is waiving admission fees for in 2023. Weve already had three free days this year: Jan. 16, which is Martin Luther King Day; April 22, which was the first day of National Park Week; and Aug. 4, marking the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act. Sept. 23 is the fourth free admission day, which was enacted to recognize National Public Lands Day. It was a popular national monument, until it was robbed to extinction According to NPS, National Public Lands Day was established in 1994 and has been held on the fourth Saturday of September every year. It is, traditionally, the U.S.s largest single-day volunteer effort, encouraging people to connect with the nature spaces in their community. FILE - In this April 7, 2018, file photo, the raging Bridalveil Fall plummets into Yosemite Valley, while closed to the public due to a flooding Merced River, in Yosemite National Park, Calif. Three popular campgrounds at California's Yosemite National Park will be temporarily closed starting Monday, May 15, 2023, due to a forecast of flooding as warming temperatures melt the Sierra Nevada's massive snowpack. Park officials said Sunday that Lower and North Pines Campgrounds and Housekeeping Camp will be shut over fears that waterways could overspill their banks. (Eric Paul Zamora/The Fresno Bee via AP, File) In addition to visiting national parks for free, everyone is encouraged to volunteer to restore and preserve public lands around them. While you wont need to pay a fee to get into the national parks, fee are still required for overnight camping, cabin rentals, transportation, group day use and use of special areas. These are Americas deadliest national parks: data There are 109 national parks that typically charge an entrance fee, according to NPS, including Missouris Gateway Arch National Park. The fee-waived day also includes some of the most popular parks, like Zion, Yellowstone, Yosemite, Rocky Mountain, Olympic, Lake Mead, Hawaii Volcanoes, the Grand Canyon, Denali, and the Everglades. The next free admission day is Nov. 11 in honor of Veterans Day. Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android Last year, there were roughly 312 million recreational visits to 395 national parks that track attendance, a 15 million increase over 2021. The most visited park was Blue Ridge Parkway, which received 15.7 million visits last year, edging out the Golden Gate National Recreation Area by slightly more than 72,000 visits. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. Two gun-related incidents that caused two lockdowns at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill less than a month apart have raised the question: Should students be allowed to carry weapons on campus to protect themselves? ALSO READ: Suspect charged in connection to 2nd UNC Chapel Hill lockdown The most recent incident happened just last Wednesday. Police arrested Mickel Harris, 27, and charged him with having a gun on educational property. Harris is being accused of going into a bagel shop in the student union building with a gun and threatening to kill an employee. The campus was then put on lockdown prior to officers arresting Harris, who is still in jail. Just three weeks before that, UNC Chapel Hill police say a graduate student shot and killed his professor in a lab on campus, forcing the entire college to be locked down. That student is now facing a first-degree murder charge. Currently, in North Carolina, its illegal to carry a gun on any college campus. But following two gun-related incidents at UNC-Chapel Hill, one of our states most powerful politicians is saying it may be a good idea to allow students to arm themselves. Here in Queen City, thousands of students are on the campus of UNC Charlotte; legally no one should be carrying a gun. Honestly, I dont think guns should be on campus at all, Apoorva Joshi, a student, says. North Carolina House Speaker Tim Moore wants students to have the option to carry a gun. Just days ago, he spoke to Ch. 9 news partners at The Charlotte Observer. Youre not just going to snap your fingers and get rid of guns; thats not reality; criminals are going to have guns; the best deterrent against a criminal with a gun is a good guy with a gun, Moore said. ALSO READ: Faculty member killed in UNC building; suspect in custody, chancellor says Eddy Yuzik, another student at UNC Charlotte, believes that the suggestion may work. I believe there are students that are perfectly capable of going through the training and carrying a firearm responsibly, Yuzik said. However, many students agree that they wouldnt trust themselves or their classmates to carry a gun, especially on a large campus where youre not familiar with everyone. No, absolutely not; there are thousands of people here; I only know a few, Austin Stubblefield said. There are a lot of really dumb people who like to do stupid things at two in the morning when they are drunk, and I dont think they should have a gun, Anna Benbow said. Channel 9 has reached out to House Speaker Moore to see if there is any effort he is willing to put forward for a change in law. We are still waiting to hear back. (WATCH BELOW: Suspect arrested, all clear given after incident at UNC-Chapel Hill) For a long time, the only way to experience Bentonville, site of the largest Civil War battle in North Carolina, was a driving tour around the sprawling battlefield, stopping to read placards and signs that explained what happened around you. Now there is also a network of walking trails through woods and across fields that remain little changed since 80,000 Union and Confederate soldiers fought here 158 years ago. That trail network grew by a mile on Friday with the opening of a leg of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail off Harper House Road. Visitors can follow the new trail into a pine plantation that in 1865 was a swampy, dense forest, later nicknamed the Bull Pen, where outnumbered Union soldiers held off a Confederate attack in one of the fiercest clashes of the three-day battle. Walking through the forest, past remnants of trenches dug by Union soldiers, is a different experience than seeing it from a distance, said Colby Stevens, who manages the Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site. If youre looking to come out and really comprehend what happened here, you have to get off the hard path at Bentonville, Stevens said before the trails official opening Friday. And these trails allow us to get off the hard path. And for those who dont care about history, Stevens added, its a pleasant and easy walk in the woods. NCs Mountains-to-Sea Trail The trail is one more tiny piece of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail that extends 1,175 miles from Clingmans Dome in Great Smoky Mountains National Park to Jockeys Ridge State Park in Nags Head. About 700 miles of the trail are off-road, on either paved or unpaved paths or on the beach, and the long-term goal is for it all to be that way. Otherwise, people must walk along the road. There are now about 3.3 miles of off-road Mountains-to-Sea Trail in Bentonville, where the state owns more than 2,000 acres or about a third of the battlefield. The state historic site is about an hour southeast of Raleigh, off Interstate 40 near Newton Grove. Persuading private landowners to allow a trail across their property is not easy, said Betsy Brown, associate director of the Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Besides Bentonville, none of the trail is off-road in southern Johnston County or anywhere in neighboring Sampson County. Working in Bentonville was easy, Brown said. From conception to ribbon-cutting, the new section took about 9 months, with a combination of professional and volunteer labor. Many who were involved were on hand Friday, including members of Friends of Johnston County Parks, who helped cut the path and will maintain it, and Friends of Bentonville Battlefield, who helped with signs to help explain the battle. A new section of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail in the Bentonville Battlefield includes signs like these to indicate where Union and Confederate soldiers were and when during the battle in March 1865. Pattie Smith, president of the battlefield friends group, noted in particular several placards on pine trees that show where different Union and Confederate brigades were located and when something visitors ask about. You can see where your ancestor was, Smith said. That means a lot to people who come here. Site of more than a Civil War battle The new trail crosses what during the Civil War was Cole Plantation. Generations of Coles Black, white and Native American still live in North Carolina, among them Carolyn Cole of Pinehurst, who attended Fridays opening. Cole, 66, remembers working on her grandparents farm in the area when she was young and her uncle, a Korean War veteran, taking kids into the woods to show them the Civil War trenches. She said driving through the battlefield is a little like flying over the country in an airplane; its better to be on the ground, to breathe the air and smell the trees. Being able to touch and feel things, Cole said. The Battle of Bentonville was the Confederacys last stand in North Carolina. Confederate Gen. Joseph Johnston tried unsuccessfully to stop Union Gen. William T. Sherman from resupplying at Goldsboro and then moving north into Virginia. But as Cole notes, the battle was three days in a long history of the land that includes whites, Native Americans and enslaved and free Blacks. Im really proud of what the state has done and want to encourage more people, all people, to come out and really learn more, said Cole, who is Black. Historic sites provide a great way for us to learn history thats more than just the recalling of dates. Michelle Lanier, the states director of historic sites, said allowing people to walk through the Bentonville battlefield helps them understand what came before and after the battle. When youre dealing with histories of violence, like war, and the story of slavery and the story of the Civil War, to me when you can experience that story in the presence of a natural landscape, its something that is a kind of balm for the wounds of memory, said Lanier, who is also Black. To be surrounded by these trees, knowing they were witness to all of this, gives me a sense of comfort and almost courage to be able to face these really challenging and sometimes painful parts of our history. To learn more about Bentonville, go to historicsites.nc.gov/all-sites/bentonville-battlefield. For more on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, including maps and itineraries, go to mountainstoseatrail.org/. Janice Robinson, of Mecklenburg Countys Public School Strong, speaks during a public hearing at a CMS board meeting on Aug. 22, 2023. (Screenshot from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Board of Education meeting) When North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper declared a rare state of emergency for public education in May, it revved teams of parents across the state. They, too, wanted to push back against the impacts of what Cooper called the Republican legislatures schemes to expand private school vouchers, defund public schools and push culture wars in the classroom. Janice Robinson took the call seriously, and on a night in August when the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools board approved policies to comply with the Parents Bill of Rights, she spoke out. Robinson called the new laws that limit instruction of LGBTQ+ issues in elementary schools, among other things, a ruse to take away the rights of other parents. Our goal is not about being loud, but being reasonable and inclusive, Robinson told The Charlotte Observer last week. We join supporters of public education. Robinson and a group of about 20 parents make up Mecklenburg Countys chapter of Public School Strong, a network launched in May with about 30 other teams across the state. Their charge is to be an ever-increasing presence at school board meetings, wearing matching blue shirts with big hearts. Down Home North Carolina, a left-leaning advocacy organization focused on rural areas, equates the network to a counter for Moms for Liberty and other grassroots groups trying to be the loudest voice in the room, pushing book bans and trying to erode our trust in public education. Brooke Weiss, chair of the conservative activist group Moms for Libertys Mecklenburg chapter, has been a major parent presence during school board meetings and welcomes other parents voices. We believe in every parents fundamental right to direct the upbringing of their children, which includes directing their education, Weiss told the Observer. Every parent should be able to feel comfortable voicing their concerns and advocating for their children without fear of being targeted with false, hateful rhetoric. Students are suffering Stacy Staggs, a member of Public School Strong, has twin CMS fourth-graders. Staggs says shes seen enough telegraphed and manufactured issues taking center stage in education while students suffer. Shes fed up with the threat of expanded vouchers to funnel millions of dollars to North Carolina private schools, claims about pornographic books in media centers and attacks on LGBTQ+ children. We started this movement with sheer determination and ongoing commitment, Staggs said. Weve already been engaged for years in our childrens schools and with their educators. As more attention is given to the inner workings of public education, our efforts and presence will continue to be highlighted. While she doesnt want her group to be labeled as the opposition to organizations like Moms for Liberty, Staggs understands the need to draw the comparison. She also understands the opposing views could make for interesting school board meetings. We can see a clear timeline of telegraphed and manufactured issues, from boogeymen of CRT, COVID as a hoax, anti-masking efforts, to excerpts from books they mistakenly claim to be pornography and hostility against LGBTQ students and staff, she said. All the while, real-world concerns like honest and accurate education, literacy and life skills, partnering with staff in the buildings and focusing on improving student outcomes across our district are where the real work is happening. Are public schools a battlefield? The goal, Staggs says, is to refocus attention what matters most in education: ensuring the states children have access to honest, accurate, safe and fully-funded public education. The Mecklenburg groups creation comes amid a state budget stalemate within the Republican-controlled General Assembly forcing teachers to continue to wait on anticipated raises. The Republican-led Senates budget proposal also includes expanding private school vouchers that Gov. Roy Cooper has called a public school disaster. Staggs group showed up at the CMS board meeting Aug. 22 when school board members approved four policies that comply with the Parents Bill of Rights a new law created through the legislatures veto override last month of Senate Bill 49. The laws force schools to notify parents prior to any changes in the name or pronoun used for a student in school records or by school personnel. The new state law also gives parents the right to review library and education materials, including textbooks used in class and a way for parents to object to material in school media centers and/or books and educational materials used in class. Everyone benefits from supporting public education rather than painting it as some kind of battlefield enemy, Phillip White, a CMS parent, said. Enough facades Robinson, a 30-year licensed occupational therapist, told school board members during Parents Bill of Rights discussion Aug. 22 that parents already have the right to be involved in their childrens education. Parents want the freedom to educate their kids and have their kids education presented to them in a way that does not discriminate against them and their friends, Robinson said. It is unfair. It is wrong. Ultimately, groups like Public School Strong and Moms for Liberty want to bring solutions to the table, both Staggs and Weiss said. For example, Weiss pitched an idea to district officials in February of a rating system as a solution to controversial books circulating in school libraries and classrooms. Staggs, in turn, would like the community to partner together to help improve literacy a shared concern among parents. We intend to pitch the idea of reading buddies, Staggs said, or expanding the reading buddies program that could pair up seniors (elders) or even older students looking for community service hours, with younger students for tutoring. Davidson is cracking down on jaywalkers. On Sept. 5, police began citing people crossing the busiest streets in town outside of marked crosswalks. As of 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 14, police had issued the $30 civil citations to five jaywalkers and gave verbal warnings to two others, town spokeswoman Jessica Eggimann told The Charlotte Observer. Davidson Police Chief Kimber Davidson credited community education and visible police presence for the low number of citations. The town is closer to its Vision Zero goal of no pedestrian, bicyclist and driver deaths and injuries, the chief said in a statement. The crackdown followed a month of police distributing educational materials and verbally warning jaywalkers. Officers alerted people to a new town ordinance that zeroes in on jaywalking violations in marked pedestrian safety zones. Banners and sidewalk stickers with a friendly owl design alert people to the zones. Friendly owl sidewalk stickers alert walkers to pedestrian safety zones at traffic-heavy street crossings in the town of Davidson, N.C. TOWN OF DAVIDSON NC We want everyone to be safe, Town Manager Jamie Justice said in an Aug. 31 news release announcing the enforcement initiative. There is so much activity in these pedestrian safety zones, we ask that everyone use the approved crosswalks to avoid any more pedestrian injuries or fatalities, Justice said. Deaths on streets packed with people and cars The safety zones are the latest initiative in a more than decade-long effort to curb injuries and deaths in the north Mecklenburg town, located near Lake Norman about 22 miles from Charlotte. Beloved Davidson College professor Robert Whitton died in November 2011, days after he was struck by a sport utility vehicle in a crosswalk on Concord Road. He was on his way home from campus on a rainy night. After Whittons death, the town underwent a safety campaign with more signage and education and billed itself as pedestrian-friendly. Still, residents and town officials pushed the state for more improvements, and got them. Changes included better-timed crosswalk signals on Main Street and a lowered speed limit on a stretch of Davidson-Concord Road. In April 2016, well-known Davidson pet sitter Janet McFadden, 49, died when a truck turning from South Street hit her as she walked two dogs in the crosswalk on South Main. One of the dogs also was killed. The driver of the truck was found not guilty of misdemeanor death by vehicle in 2017, The Charlotte Observer reported at the time. She was not in an area where I could see her, the driver, then 38, told the Observer. I never saw her. [RELATED: Pet sitter struck and killed crossing South Main in downtown Davidson] Two years ago, a Davidson resident was killed while crossing Main Street during daylight hours, 18 feet north of a crosswalk, according to a Sept. 1 email that Davidson College sent to faculty, staff and students alerting them to the enforcement initiative. What is far more important than the threat of a financial penalty is your safety and well-being, Chief Julian Coaxum of the Davidson College Police Department, said in the email. That is paramount to us, and, we hope, to you. College spokesman Jay Pfeifer provided a copy of the email to the Observer on Friday. Friendly town where drivers wave In his email, Coaxum described Davidson as a small, friendly town with low speed limits and drivers who wave. That might tempt people to sprint across the street at the most convenient point, Coaxum said. Please dont. Use the designated crosswalks and be equally vigilant and cautious of pedestrians when driving, he urged. No secret: Police will be in these areas Police are concentrating their crackdown initially on two areas with the most cars and walkers, according to the town. The area is Main Street from Griffith Street to Eugenia Street, near Carrburritos Taqueria, which is in the 400 block of South Main Street. The other area is Jetton Street from the Milkbread restaurant in the 600 block to the Harris Teeter in the 400 block of Peninsula Drive. The ordinance also designates stretches of Griffith Street and Concord Road as safety zones. Citations are issued for improper crossing of roadway in pedestrian safety zone. Officers issue the citations at their discretion, according to the new Town Ordinance Sec. 70-46. In an email Friday, Justice said he hopes the crackdown will continue to encourage a positive change in human behavior and eliminate deaths and serious injuries. Davidson is designed as a walkable community where pedestrian safety is of the utmost importance and a part of our core values, Justice said. We want residents and visitors alike to feel safe on our roads and sidewalks. I feel confident that our community will lead by example and choose to properly use the crosswalks provided for their safety, he said. One state eased up on jaywalkers Jaywalking is illegal most everywhere in the U.S., but laws vary by state, according to Traffic Safety Store.com. Some states cite jaywalkers only if the pedestrian is causing a traffic hazard, according to the site. Florida looks the other way if youre outside a crosswalk, but oncoming vehicles have the right of way and you must yield to them, according to the site. North Carolina law also requires a pedestrian to yield to traffic if the person is outside of a marked crosswalk or in an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. Violators faces a $196 fine plus court costs. On the flip side, Californias Freedom to Walk Act legalized jaywalking in February, Pacific Coast Business Times reported. Officers in the Golden State can no longer stop or fine people for jaywalking, unless a reasonably careful person realizes a chance of a collision is imminent, according to the report. More than 81,000 Kansans have lost their Medicaid coverage as Kansas ends COVID-19 era extensions, according to data through the end of August released by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment Monday. Nearly three-quarters of those Kansans lost their coverage because they failed to submit paperwork, not because they were deemed ineligible for the program that provides coverage to disabled and low-income Americans. The loss in coverage comes as states across the country dismantle pandemic-era policies that allowed recipients to keep coverage longer without completing paperwork. Before data began to become available state officials had predicted around 125,000 Kansans could lose coverage and that 100,000 of those would still be eligible if the state had expanded Medicaid. Kansas Medicaid program, called KanCare, has about 500,000 recipients. Thus far, of the 300,000 Kansans who have received renewal applications, more than 22,000 Kansans have lost coverage because they were no longer eligible. Another 58,718 people have had their coverage temporarily discontinued because they did not return the form. Those individuals have 90 days to return the application and if they are approved their coverage will be backdated. Kansas is one of 10 states that has refused to expand Medicaid since the program was first approved under the Affordable Care Act. Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly has offered a bill to expand the program every year since she became governor in 2018 but has been consistently thwarted by a GOP-controlled Legislature. Last year Congress passed a budget bill requiring states to once again verify the eligibility of recipients a process thats being called the unwinding as participants are kicked off. For months, health officials have been scrambling to get the word out to enrollees to give them time to prepare and, if possible, look for alternative coverage. Earlier this year, Kansas temporarily paused the unwinding process in response to a high number of Kansans being kicked off the program because of incomplete paperwork. Mondays data shows that, even after the process restarted, that problem has persisted. April Holman, executive director of the Alliance for a Healthy Kansas, a group that advocates for Medicaid expansion, said shes been concerned by the results. Holman said Kansas has been harmed by statutes that keep the state from issuing automatic renewals that have helped other states keep recipients enrolled. Holman said shed like to see the Legislature act to fix that when they return next year. In the meantime, she said, more work is needed to make sure Medicaid recipients know to watch for their renewal applications. We really just want people to know that they really need to do this, she said. They might be out of practice or theyre new to this altogether A Georgia woman accused of shooting her neighbor in a dispute over barking dogs is set to spend nearly 30 years behind bars, court documents show. Fonda Spratt, 57, was sentenced to 65 years with 27 to be served in prison, according to documents obtained by McClatchy News. The remaining 38 years will be served on probation. Spratts sentencing comes after she pleaded guilty to multiple charges including two counts of attempted murder and home invasion stemming from a shooting in Flowery Branch last year. On Nov. 29, 2022, officers responded to a report of someone shot and found a woman with multiple gunshot wounds standing in the road, according to the citys police department. She had been hit twice and was taken to a hospital for treatment. Investigators said they learned the shooter, later identified as Spratt, had forced her way into her neighbors home to complain about her barking dogs and then shot her. This is incredibly unfortunate and couldve ended in catastrophic results, Flowery Branch Police Chief Christopher Hulsey said at the time. There could have been more innocent individuals injured or killed. Police didnt release the victims identity. Under the terms of her sentence, Spratt must also complete 40 hours of community service, seek mental health treatment and reimburse her neighbor for treatment expenses up to $2,000, court documents show. Flowery Branch is about 45 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta. 78-year-old shoots and kills neighbor in dispute over tree trimming, Florida cops say Man pins wife with car, then runs over a woman who heard the screams, Utah cops say Love triangle leads to woman stabbing her cousin over a man, Missouri cops say The News Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Elon Musk on Monday that he should find a balance in fighting antisemitism and protecting free speech on X, formerly known as Twitter. I know youre committed to stamping out antisemitism, Netanyahu told Musk during a sit-down discussion between the two in the San Francisco Bay Area. I hope you succeed in it; its not an easy task, but I encourage you and urge you to find a balance. Its a tough one. The meeting came days after Musk threatened to sue the Anti-Defamation League after the Jewish civil rights group said Musk was allowing antisemitism to flourish on X, citing research that showed instances of hate speech rose on the platform after Musk took over. Musk alleged that the groups claims led to a drop in ad revenue. Know More Musk and Netanyahu sat down to discuss artificial intelligence, but the conversation turned to focus on larger global security issues, hate speech, and Netanyahus controversial judicial overhaul plan in Israel. Obviously, Im against antisemitism. Im against anti-, really, anything that promotes hate and conflict, Musk told Netanyahu. He later said that X is not promoting hate speech, because we think, probably, thats not what people want to hear. The Washington Post reported that the live-streamed meeting with Netanyahu was part of an attempt by Musks Jewish friends and X executives to stave off the ADL controversy. SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu kicked off a U.S. trip in California to talk to billionaire businessman Elon Musk about antisemitism on his social media platform X while Musk asked him to address his judicial overhaul in Israel. The two also discussed artificial intelligence in a sparsely attended livestream event Monday. Netanyahu's high-profile visit to the San Francisco Bay Area comes at a time when Musk is facing accusations of tolerating antisemitic messages on his social media platform, while Netanyahu is confronting political opposition at home and abroad. Protesters gathered early Monday outside the Fremont, California, factory where Tesla makes its cars. The official agenda was to consider artificial intelligence, with Netanyahu and the Tesla CEO mostly in agreement on the need to weigh the technology's benefits against its societal risks. Netanyahu said controlling more-advanced AI must start by getting like-minded states to agree to a code of ethics and conduct to foster the technology and curb the curses. But he said there will still be a need to police the planet against rogue actors. The freestyle conversation, which included jokes from both men, soon turned to free speech and antisemitism, with Netanyahu telling Musk he hopes that within the confines of the First Amendment he can find a way to roll back antisemitism and other forms of hatred on his social media platform. "I encourage you and urge you to find the balance. Its a tough one, Netanyahu said. Musk said that with 100 million to 200 million posts on X in a day, some of those are gonna be bad. He reiterated the platform's policy to not promote or amplify hate speech. Under Musk, the former Twitter changed its rules so that objectionable posts are not usually removed, but instead their visibility is limited so people have to seek them out if they want to see them. Musk calls this freedom of speech, not freedom of reach. Musk is facing accusations of tolerating antisemitic messages on X. The Anti-Defamation League, a prominent Jewish civil-rights organization, has accused Musk of allowing antisemitism and hate speech to spread on the platform. Its director, Jonathan Greenblatt, said Musk had amplified the messages of neo-Nazis and white supremacists who want to ban the league by engaging with them recently on X. In a Sept. 4 post, Musk claimed that the league was trying to kill this platform by falsely accusing it & me of being anti-Semitic. In other posts, he said the league was responsible for a 60% drop in revenue at X. The ADL was among a coalition or groups that urged companies last year to pause their advertising on Twitter after Musk bought the platform. But analysts who track Twitter have argued that Musks chaotic changes to the platform including jettisoning its well-known brand name have led to a decline in interest from advertisers. The group met this month with X's chief executive, Linda Yaccarino. Both Musk and Yaccarino have recently posted messages saying they oppose antisemitism. On Sunday, however, Musk posted that George Soros organization appears to want nothing less than the destruction of western civilization. Soros, 93, has donated billionsofdollars of his personal wealth to liberal and anti-authoritarian causes around the world, making him a favored target among many on the right. The Hungarian-American, who is Jewish, has also been the subject of anti-Semitic attacks and conspiracy theories for decades. Netanyahus visit was unusually Musk-centric for a world leader and was scheduled to include a demonstration of self-driving technology. Silicon Valley itineraries for visiting political dignitaries typically also include major tech companies such as Apple, Google or Meta. From California, Netanyahu heads to New York, where he is scheduled to address the United Nations General Assembly and meet with President Joe Biden and other world leaders, his office said. They include German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as well as South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Hundreds of thousands of Israelis have taken part in nine months of demonstrations against Netanyahus plan to overhaul Israels judicial system. Those protests have spread overseas, with groups of Israeli expatriates staging demonstrations during visits by Netanyahu and other members of his Cabinet. Some gathered Monday outside the Tesla factory in Fremont for a demonstration organized by UnXeptable, founded by Israeli expats to support democracy in Israel. Protest organizer Offir Gutelzon said that by visiting the San Francisco Bay Area, Netanyahu is trying to show business as usual. Back home hes tearing apart the country. We have to come and show our support and solidarity for our brothers and sisters in Israel, who are protesting every week for the last seven months, Gutelzon said. Noting the protests and citing pushback he'd received for hosting the prime minister, Musk on Monday asked Netanyahu to speak about the overhaul. Netanyahu has said the judicial overhaul plan is needed to curb the powers of unelected judges, whom he and his allies say are liberal and overly interventionist. Critics say his plan is a power grab that will destroy the countrys system of checks and balances and push it toward autocratic rule. Leading figures in Israels influential high-tech community have played a prominent role in the protests. They say weakening the judiciary will hurt the countrys business climate and drive away foreign investment. Israels currency, the shekel, has plunged in value this year in a sign of weakening foreign investment. ___ LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Nevadas U.S. senators are siding with the mining industry in opposing Biden administration proposals that would create royalties on minerals including gold, silver and copper taken from federal land. Recommendations in a report from the Interior Department would make sweeping changes to an 1872 mining law as efforts to expand lithium mining gain national importance. But a joint statement from Democratic U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto and Jacky Rosen opposes the recommendations, which would create a 4% to 8% tax and change the regulatory landscape just as big lithium discoveries could bring more mines and jobs to the Silver State. Nevada was recently rated the No. 1 most attractive place for mining and exploration in the world, according to a Fraser Institute survey. The state had been bumped off the top of the list last year as Western Australia ascended to the top. The Interagency Working Group on Mining Laws, Regulations and Permitting (IWG) released its report on Sept. 12 and was met with resistance the same day by Cortez Masto and Rosen. Dana Bennett, interim president of the Nevada Mining Association, issued this statement on Monday: The IWG report contains recommendations that, if enacted, would seriously derail Nevadas modern mining industry. The report reflects a lack of understanding of this industry and the strict regulatory system that already governs it, especially here in Nevada. To reach its clean energy goals, the country needs to move more quickly to permit mining operations. The unrealistic recommendations in the IWG report would do just the opposite. Nevada is already a global leader in the responsible production of the metals and minerals required for the 21st century, and the Nevada Mining Association stands ready to share our expertise in the continued development of a responsible, sustainable mining industry. FILE This undated file photo shows Barrick Goldstrike Mines Betze-Post open pit near Carlin, Nev. (Adella Harding/The Daily Free Press via AP, File) A recent report produced by the state shows that 4.6 million ounces of gold, 6.1 million ounces of silver and 154.2 million pounds of copper were mined in Nevada in 2020. The only lithium mine operating in the U.S., the Silver Peak mine west of Tonopah, produced 6.9 million pounds of lithium compounds. Silver Peak produces about 1% of the worlds lithium, with most of the supply from Chile, Argentina and Australia. Now, several lithium discoveries most notably the McDermitt Caldera, which has been described as possibly the largest deposit in the world are fueling excitement for big projects in Nevada. The development of electronic vehicles (EVs) is creating a situation that leaves the U.S. dependent on foreign sources. Environmental and tribal opposition to some of the projects has landed mining companies in court over several ventures, including the Thacker Pass site in northwest Nevada. Courts have allowed Thacker pass development to continue. Daranda Hinkey, a Fort McDermitt Paiute and Shoshone tribe member, holds a large hand-painted sign that says No Lithium No mine at her home, on April 24, 2023, on the Fort McDermitt Indian Reservation, near McDermitt, Nev. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer) Nevadas critical minerals are the key to clean energy jobs and lower costs for tens of millions of Americans across the country, and we should be working together to build our domestic supply chain because its good for our economy and our environment, Cortez Masto said. Unfortunately, these recommendations to impose new taxes and change the mining claims process would make it harder to create new mining projects in the United States at a time when too many companies are sourcing these minerals from Communist China. We need lithium and other critical minerals to drive our clean energy industry, and I will continue to make sure any changes to mining policy work for the tens of thousands of Nevadans powering this industry, she said. Rosen vowed to fight for regulations that support Nevadas mining industry and the good-paying jobs it creates. While this report offers needed recommendations to reform federal mining regulations, some of the proposals will hurt the mining industry and fail to bolster our nations domestic mineral supply chain, she said. We must focus on strengthening our domestic energy supply chains and moving away from our reliance on foreign adversaries for critical minerals. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. 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. 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. A team that President Joe Biden dispatched to help resolve the strike between the U.S. largest autoworkers union and the Big Three auto companies plans to be in Detroit to support talks early in the week, an administration official said Sunday. Biden named White House adviser Gene Sperling and acting Labor Secretary Julie Su last week to go to Detroit to help reach a deal to end the walkout by the United Auto Workers union, which began early Friday. Sperling has been the point person on key issues connected to the union and the companies, and he has been coordinating with Su. "Both Sperling and acting Secretary Su are engaging with the parties by phone, as they have for weeks, with the intention of being there early in the week," the official said, adding that the administration was "pleased that the parties are continuing to meet as they had been before the contract expired." United Auto Workers members strike at the Ford Michigan Assembly Plant (Bill Pugliano / Getty Images) Su and Sperling's goal was not to serve as mediators or intervene but to "help support the negotiations in any way the parties feel is constructive," the official said. Biden said Friday that he hoped that the UAW and the Big Three returned to negotiations. After talks collapsed, Biden said he understands workers frustrations that as automobile companies register record profits, they haven't been shared fairly, in my view, with those workers. Lets be clear: No one wants a strike, he said at the White House. But I respect workers right to use their options under the collective bargaining system. The strike is a particular challenge for Biden, who has called himself the most pro-union president youve ever seen. While the UAW has historically supported Democrats like Biden, former President Donald Trump won important backing from blue-collar autoworkers. Before the strike was declared, UAW President Shawn Fain said a walkout would force Biden and other politicians to pick sides when it comes to organized labor. On Friday at midnight, about 13,000 members of the UAW walked out of a General Motors site in Missouri, a Stellantis center in Ohio and a Ford assembly plant in Michigan. If every UAW member struck immediately, the union would have enough funds to supply about 11 weeks of strike pay. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) this weekend announced his intention to sign landmark legislation that would require all major corporations that do business in the Golden State to disclose both direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions. The Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act, or SB 253, would require the state Air Resources Board to develop and adopt emissions disclosure rules for companies that operate in California and whose annual revenues exceed $1 billion. Thats over 5,300 businesses, Newsom said at a New York City Climate Week opening event, aired on Sacramento Nexstar affiliate Fox40. A number of them recently in the last few days came on board, like Apple, to their credit, Salesforce, to their credit, the governor added. State Sen. Scott Wiener (D), the San Francisco legislator who introduced the bill, applauded Newsoms declaration that he would sign the legislation, stressing in a statement that the planet needs more climate champions like Gavin Newsom. These carbon disclosures are a simple but intensely powerful driver of decarbonization, Wiener said. By gaining full visibility into corporate carbon emissions, investors and consumers will gain tools and incentives to turbocharge their decarbonization efforts, according to the state senator. This legislation will support those companies doing their part to tackle the climate crisis and create accountability for those that arent, Wiener added. Newsoms announcement that he would be signing SB 253 came a day after he and California Attorney General Rob Bonta (D) revealed that the state had filed a lawsuit against five big oil companies whom they accused of lying about climate change. The lawsuit, filed Friday, alleges that oil and gas companies have known for decades that fossil fuel dependence could bring about catastrophic weather events, but that they suppressed that information from the public. As far as SB 253 is concerned, the legislation would require corporations to begin reporting certain greenhouse gas emissions data beginning at a yet-to-be-determined date in 2026, according to the bills text. The rules would roll out gradually, mandating annual reports of so-called Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions from the previous fiscal year beginning in 2026 and then Scope 3 emissions starting in 2027. The bill defines Scope 1 emissions as all direct emissions originating from sources that the company owns or directly controls, including but not limited to fuel combustion. Scope 2 applies to indirect emissions from consumed electricity, heating or cooling, while Scope 3 refers to those from sources that the company neither owns nor controls, such as purchased goods, business travel, employee commutes and the use of sold products. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has also proposed regulations that would require publicly traded companies to disclose both direct and indirect emissions. But the California bill would reach beyond these requirements by making the same demands of private corporations. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Ventura College is one of 19 colleges in California that are building affordable campus housing with state funds. Ventura Colleges plan to build affordable housing on campus has been delayed in Sacramento, but the project is moving forward and the colleges president is cautiously optimistic that a bill signed Wednesday by Gov. Gavin Newsom means the state's promised funding will come through. Last year, Ventura College won a $63 million state grant to build housing for 320 students as part of a program that awarded nearly $1 billion to 19 colleges and universities. But those projects were thrown into doubt when the 2023-24 state budget bill took the money back to help reduce the state deficit. That legislation rescinded the grants and instead told colleges and universities to borrow the money for their new dorms, and Sacramento would fund the debt payments. But there was no guarantee the state would make all of those payments. And while the University of California has access to credit for major construction projects, community college districts operate independently and dont always have an easy way to borrow tens of millions of dollars. Senate Bill 142, which Newsom signed Wednesday, calls for the state to borrow money for the community colleges housing projects. The bill doesnt actually include this financing it only expresses the intent of the Legislature to include it in the 2024-25 state budget but college officials see it as a reasonable temporary solution. "This is really helpful. This provides a commitment that they will work with us," said Lizette Navarette, the executive vice chancellor for the California Community Colleges system. "Now districts and colleges will be able to continue planning or executing their projects, knowing there's a commitment from the state to affordability." Ventura College had planned to be in construction by now on its campus housing, but the uncertainty over the funding has slowed things down, since college leaders didn't want to spend money that the state might try to take back. The college has picked a site a vacant spot on campus where a pool used to be and has completed its environmental studies and hired a project management firm, said Ventura College President Kim Hoffmans. It is now in the process of hiring an architect. The project should break ground sometime next year and be finished sometime in the 2025-26 school year, Hoffmans said. That's about a year later than originally expected. "We feel better and we're still moving forward at Ventura College, but we're cautiously moving forward," Hoffmans said. "All these delays just make the cost go higher." The project's budget has already gone from $65 million to around $90 million, she said. The state isn't going to provide more than $63 million, so the rest will fall to the Ventura County Community College District. Ventura College plans to build 95 apartment-style units, each with between two and four bedrooms and a kitchen and bathroom. Most units would have two students in each bedroom. Rent will be between $500 and $900 per person, depending on the unit. Spots will be awarded based on need, to students who can't afford to rent in Ventura. There will be plenty of students who qualify, as apartments in Ventura can be out of reach even for many mid-career professionals. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Ventura was $2,150 last summer, according to the real estate firm Dyer Sheehan, which conducts annual surveys on rents in Ventura County. "It's a huge need for our students," Hoffmans said. "Especially during COVID, we realized that for a lot of them, their home learning environment is not conducive to student success. ... To actually live on campus in affordable housing is really going to help." Ventura College won the competitive state grant program in part because rents in the city are so high, Hoffmans said. Other factors in its favor: a construction site was available, and the campus is centrally located on major bus routes and close to grocery stores and other amenities, which is important because the college doesn't have a dining hall. On-campus housing is rare in the community college system, offered at just 11 of the state's 116 campuses. With rents increasingly unaffordable for students, it is likely to become more common in the coming decades. In addition to the Ventura College project, Moorpark and Oxnard colleges have each received $250,000 state grants to study the feasibility of campus housing. The state funding is essential to keeping campus housing affordable, Navarette said. "We're not going to charge higher rents to make these projects pencil out, which is what a university dorm does," she said. Tony Biasotti is an investigative and watchdog reporter for the Ventura County Star. Reach him at tbiasotti@vcstar.com. This story was made possible by a grant from the Ventura County Community Foundation's Fund to Support Local Journalism. This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Newsom signs bill to restore funds for Ventura College campus housing German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed that Berlin has not yet decided on providing Kyiv with long-range Taurus missiles, on Monday before the Contact Group meeting on Ukraine's defence at Ramstein Air Base. Source: European Pravda; Pistorius in an interview with Bild. The German official stressed that Ukraine has received Leopard battle tanks and modern IRIS-T air defence systems from Germany, and Berlin ranks second in the world regarding military support for Ukraine. "The entire German government must decide on every supply of weapons carefully. Many political, legal, military and technical aspects need to be established. It's not easy. The German government has not yet decided whether to send Taurus cruise missiles," Boris Pistorius added. Pistorius said that Berlin is conducting a dialogue with Kyiv on the terms of using Taurus missiles particularly, launching strikes only on Ukrainian territory and deploying these missiles, which may require assistance from the Bundeswehr. Previously: The German defence minister said that Berlin needed another "one or two weeks" to decide whether to send cruise missiles to Ukraine. Last week, Deputies of the German Bundestag from the traffic light coalition [Social Democratic Party of Germany, the Free Democratic Party and Alliance 90/The Greens] wrote a letter to Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, who, in particular, demands the transfer of Taurus long-range missiles to Ukraine. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba is convinced that the transfer of Taurus missiles from Germany to Ukraine is only "a matter of time". 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! A New Jersey mayor who was abruptly disinvited from a White House Eid celebration in May was not on the federal terrorism watchlist at the time when the U.S. Secret Service denied his security clearance, his attorneys said in a stunning revelation at a news conference on Monday. Mohamed Khairullah was placed on the watchlist in 2019, but his name was later removed from the list, said attorneys with the Council on American-Islamic Relations. Still, federal agencies have continued to use the list to scrutinize and surveil Khairullah and other Muslims even after their names are cleared, they said. "The fact that [I was] refused access to the White House indicates that this watchlist has a ripple effect," Khairullah said Monday at a news conference in Newark. "It's obviously not something that is pleasant. It violates my constitutional rights as an American to due process. There are people out there who think I am a bad person. This was caused by the U.S. government. The U.S. government needs to clear my name and the name of others who are being harassed and intimidated through airports and border crossings." CAIR filed a lawsuit Monday in federal court in Boston against the FBI and other federal agencies on behalf of a dozen plaintiffs including Khairullah, the longtime mayor of Prospect Park. The group alleges that the agencies are violating its clients' rights to due process and equal protection under the law and that they were subjected to unreasonable search and seizure. CAIR attorney Hannah Mullen said the list can affect people for the rest of their lives, even after their names are cleared. Once an individual is placed on the watchlist, they are branded as a second-class citizen for life, even if the government eventually realizes they should not have been placed on the list in the first place, Mullen said. Several agencies retain records of past watchlist status and continue to use it to deny formerly listed individuals government benefits, like security clearance, employment, access to government buildings and other licenses and permits for the rest of their lives." The FBI declined to comment on the lawsuit on Monday. "In an effort to protect the integrity of pending litigation, the FBI has no comment," the agency responded in an email. The federal terrorist watchlist reportedly includes about 1.5 million names that are almost exclusively Muslim, according to CAIR. "We tried the path of getting an explanation from federal agencies for the reasons why I was denied entry to the White House and why I was being subjected to extra screening at airports and border crossings," said Khairullah, the longest-serving Muslim mayor in New Jersey. "Unfortunately, it fell on deaf ears and eliminated my right to due process, when Im being painted as someone who is dangerous to those around me. At this point, we have no option left but to go the legal route." The FBI created the watchlist, called the Terrorist Screening Dataset, 20 years ago as a central place to share information across government and law enforcement agencies about known and suspected terrorists. The list includes innocent people who have never been charged or investigated in connection with terrorism, and who have no meaningful way to challenge their inclusion on the list, CAIR alleges. Khairullah's case received national attention, but many other Muslim citizens and residents have complaints that go unheard, said Selaedin Maksut, executive director of CAIR's New Jersey chapter. He said his office has gotten calls from students, scholars, travelers and imams who have been detained, questioned and searched and "made to feel if they had committed a crime." CAIR said it obtained and analyzed a leaked portion of the 2019 watchlist and found that 98% of the names were of Muslim origin including Mohamed Khairullahs. In a June report, Twenty Years Too Many: A Call to Stop the FBIs Secret Watchlist," the organization detailed how the watchlist has wreaked havoc in peoples lives. Travelers have been harassed, searched, delayed or prevented from flying on airplanes or driving across borders missing family vacations, funerals, weddings and other milestones, CAIR attorneys said. Others have faced hardships getting government jobs, travel visas, certain permits and citizenship. People on the list have faced traffic stops and law enforcement questioning. Khairullah said his rejection from the White House party for Eid al-Fitr was not the first time he was profiled. In 2019, he was held for three hours at JFK International Airport after returning from a trip to Turkey with his family. He was questioned about his travels, asked whether he had met with any terrorists and forced to hand over his phone. Prospect Park Mayor Mohamed T. Khairullah is the lead plaintiff on a lawsuit filed by the Council on American-Islamic Relations with a dozen other plaintiffs seeking an end to the governmentOs secret watchlist that almost exclusively targets Muslims for harassment and humiliation when they travel. CAIR's lawsuit will mark the 20th anniversary (Sept. 16) of the Terrorism Screening Dataset. The Syrian-born mayor was detained again at the Canadian border and questioned after returning from a family vacation about two years ago, he said. After the incident at JFK Airport, Khairullah said, he tried to find out why he had been flagged, but federal agencies would not provide any information. He reached out to CAIR which has filed numerous lawsuits over the watchlist for help. The organization informed him that his name was on the leaked list. Watchlist: Could Supreme Court tactic dismantle the terror watchlist? An appeal is asking just that Politics: Will LGBTQ curriculum push Muslims, like conservative Christians, toward Republican Party? In May, the Secret Service declined to explain why it barred Khairullah from the White House, saying it was "not able to comment further on the specific protective means and methods used to conduct our security operations at the White House. "From my perspective, I think I was denied my right to due process and an explanation," Khairullah said. "At this point, I and my family who could be traveling with me feel like second-class citizens." People have ended up on the watchlist because of where they've traveled and whom they know or have encountered, according to CAIR. In some cases, individuals said they had been placed on the list after they refused to be informants for law enforcement, the organization said. Individuals who donate to Muslim charities, who engage in religious study and who send money to people in Muslim-majority countries have also been flagged. Federal officials say the watchlist is a tool to keep Americans safe. The FBI maintain that individuals cannot be added to the list based solely on race, ethnicity, national origin, religious affiliation or activity protected under the First Amendment. Federal officials say they regularly review the lists and that names are added and removed as result. The FBI National Press Office previously declined to answer questions about Khairullahs case. Our standard practice is to neither confirm nor deny whether any individual may be included on the U.S. government's federal terrorist watchlist or subset list, the FBI said. The lawsuit was filed against 29 defendants in various federal agencies including the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Secret Service, the Officer of the Attorney General and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: NJ Mayor Mohamed Khairullah, disinvited to White House, is suing The Florida Commission on Ethics announced on Wednesday that it had found no probable cause for a second ethics complaint filed against former Escambia County Commissioner Doug Underhill. The complaint, which was not public until Wednesday, was filed by Pensacola businessman David Bear against Underhill, alleging the former commissioner had accepted legal services from the McDonald Fleming law firm in three lawsuits without paying his legal bills. An Ethics Commission investigation found Underhill was making regular payments to the law firm and had paid $138,904.99 with a remaining balance of $23,030.92. With the finding of no probable cause to this ethics complaint, the complaint itself highlights all of the legal troubles Underhill faces in civil court from his time as a commissioner from 2014 to 2022. Two of the lawsuits mentioned in Bear's ethics complaint revolve around a defamation suit against Underhill, which he successfully defended. Underhill then sued Escambia County to reimburse his legal fees, and multiple courts have ordered the county to do just that. The county is still fighting that decision. The third lawsuit in the complaint concerns Bear's lawsuit against Underhill over Underhill's refusal to fulfill a public records request for his Facebook messages. Underhill was forced to hand over the messages by a federal court, and the case is now sorting out legal fees. A recently filed recommended order in the case calls for Underhill to reimburse Bear $130,425.50 in attorney's fees for the case. A federal judge will decide whether to adopt or modify that order. Additionally, Underhill is also in the process of appealing the Ethics Commission's decision last year to find him in violation of the state's ethics law and voted to fine him $35,000 and recommend his removal from office. Underhill's term in office ended before any final decision over his removal was made. Underhill appealed the Ethics Commission decision to the First District Court of Appeal, and the case is still pending. More legal problems arose for Underhill last month when Anthony Handler, CEO of Pro Watercross, a personal watercraft racing company, filed a defamation lawsuit against Underhill in Escambia County Circuit Court, alleging Underhill made false comments on a public Facebook page that harmed his business. This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Doug Underhill former Escambia commissioner ethic complaint dismissed Gov. Kristi Noem introduces Donald Trump during his event at The Monument in Rapid City, South Dakota on Friday, Sept. 8, 2023. Former president Donald Trumps rally in Rapid City a week ago was supposed to unite the South Dakota Republican Party, but the rally could be described as anything but unifying. Before Trump even took stage, the SD GOP played a video on the main screen meant to rile up the crowd with the partys dominance over the years. When pictures of the states congressional delegation Sens. John Thune and Mike Rounds and Rep. Dusty Johnson flashed, the crowd launched into boos. One woman asked why the men who represent the state in Washington made paltry excuses to explain their reasonings for not being there. Johnson said he was on a family vacation, while Thune and Rounds said they had other plans they were unable to cancel. Adding to the sense of disunity, in Gov. Kristi Noem s speech introducing Trump, she took a potshot at the delegation. She didn't go so far as to name them but the intention was clear. "They dont show up for you when it matters, the second-term Republican governor said. "They didnt even show up here tonight to welcome a former President of the United States to South Dakota who cared enough to come support our state Republican Party and our great Chairman John Wiik. More: 'You made America great... Let's do it again': Noem endorses Trump at Rapid City rally But even if Noem took a shot at the congressional delegation, could she still help unite the party as speculation grows that Trump may name her his vice presidential pick? The screen flashed Trump Noem 2024 and signs were handed out during the rally with the same message after she had endorsed the former president. Mike Card, a retired professor of political studies at the University of South Dakota, and Jon Schaff, a professor of government at Northern State University, arent quite sure. Schaff pointed to a divide in the party since Thune was booed. I cant think of, in South Dakota politics, a figure that is more unitive amongst Republicans than John Thune, he said. Thune has walloped every single Democratic challenger hes had for his seat in the Senate since 2004, winning a historic fourth term last year. Furthering the divide is the fact that Thune and Rounds have endorsed South Carolina Sen. Tim Scotts bid for President, and that might have influenced their decision on attending. Card speculated the Congressional delegation might have made a different choice if the event had been plainly a state GOP event. The event, the Monumental Leaders Rally, wasnt ticketed as a specific Trump rally. Instead, it was the GOPs annual fundraiser. Tickets went for $25 a pop, with VIP packages starting at $15,000 and going all the way up to $25,000. More: Why Gov. Kristi Noem's long-touted bills were killed in the S.D. Legislature this session GOP Chair John Wiik, who also serves as a Senator from Big Stone City, said at the event there were 7,000 people in attendance and the event had sold out within days. That assumes the GOP made a quick $175,000 from those sitting in the general admission area. More than likely, funds will be used to help various GOP candidates running for office in 2024. But it was noticed during the rally there were empty seats and the area near the stage, and behind the VIP seating, only four rows of people were standing. I don't know that it was so much of a Trump rally, except that it was clearly an effort to bring people together and to get higher contributions, Card said. Even without the congressional delegation at the rally, members of South Dakotas state house leadership werent in attendance. Sen. Pro Tempore Lee Schoenbeck, R-Watertown, as well as Senate Majority Leader Casey Crabtree, R-Madison, werent seen in the VIP section with a handful of state lawmakers who did make it. Neither were House Majority Leader Rep. Will Mortenson, R-Pierre, or House Speaker Rep. Hugh Bartels, R-Watertown. Schaff said distance might have been a deciding factor since the lawmakers hail from the east side of the state. But distance didnt stop Sioux Falls Sens. Jack Kolbeck and Jim Stalzer from attending. If it's a big Republican unity event, everybody's there," he said. "But they weren't, and so it's not." And if Noem is truly gunning for a spot at Trumps side if hes nominated to be the GOP pick to run against President Joe Biden in 2024, Card and Schaff say, people have to look at Noems accomplishments during the legislative session. The 2023 legislative session left Noems agenda bruised and busted on the floor, unable to pass a permanent cut to the states sales tax on food, a private-public family leave program and bans on China buying agricultural land. Noem all but threatened to veto the general budget bill over the tax cut issue. Noem was also accused in 2022 of trying to meddle with the impeachment proceedings in the House against then-Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg after he hit and killed a man while driving back from a GOP event in Sept. 2020. I'm not sure that she has universal support amongst Republicans, Schaff said, adding Republicans would rally around her to support her VP candidacy. But I think she's kind of thrown too many elbows in South Dakota Republican politics to be a completely unifying figure. This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: Can Noem unite South Dakota GOP ahead of 2024 general election? You dont have to travel far to attend one of the top colleges in the U.S. UC Davis is the sixth-best public school in the nation, according to a new university ranking from U.S. News & World Report. Public institutions often offer reduced tuition rates to state residents because theyre typically funded through taxpayer dollars and grants. We are proud that UC Davis continues to be recognized as one of the top public research universities in the country, said UC Davis Chancellor Gary May. This ranking validates the emphasis we place on academic excellence, opportunities for our students and a diverse student body that excels once they graduate, he said in an emailed statement. Only seven California State University campuses ranked in U.S. News & World Reports list of best public schools including San Bernardino State (No. 91), San Francisco State (No. 96) and Fresno State (No. 101). The annual ranking comes less than a week after CSU leaders voted to increase tuition. The cost of attending college will increase by 6% annually over the next five years, starting next year. Top public schools in the U.S. According to a news release, the U.S. News & World Report looked at diverse enrollment and graduate rates, social mobility, student debt and post-college success of more than 1,000 colleges. This years ranking did not compare classroom size, facility education, alumni donations, high school rankings or the number of graduates using federal loans. UC Berkeley and UC Los Angeles are tied for the No. 1 spot on the top 10 list of best public schools in the U.S., followed by University of Michigan Ann Arbor and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. UC Davis is tied for sixth place with UC San Diego and the University of Florida, rising four places from last years list. The Sacramento-area college also ranked No. 28 among all U.S. universities, beating out UC Irvine, New York University and Virginia Tech. Heres a look at the 2023-24 tuition costs of the top nationally-ranked public schools, according to U.S. News & World Report. Costs vary slightly on university websites. No. 1 | UC Berkeley In-state: $15,891 per year Out of state: $48,465 per year No. 1 | UC Los Angeles In-state: $13,752 per year Out of state: $46,326 per year No. 3 | University of Michigan Ann Arbor In-state: $17,786 per year Out of state: $57,273 per year No. 4 | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill In-state: $8,998 per year Out of state: $39,338 per year No. 5 | University of Virginia In-state: $22,323 per year Out of state: $58,950 per year No. 6 | UC Davis In-state: $15,266 per year Out of state: $46,043 per year No. 6 | UC San Diego In-state: $16,056 per year Out of state: $48,630 per year No. 6 | University of Florida In-state: $6,381 per year Out of state: $28,658 per year No. 9 | University of Texas at Austin In-state : $11,698 per year Out of state: $41,070 per year No. 10 | Georgia Institute of Technology In-state: $11,764 per year Out of state: $32,876 per year 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. Federal prosecutors warned in April that Donald Trump's public disclosure of their efforts to access his Twitter account could spark unrest as his doing so in the past had, newly unsealed court filings show. Notifying Trump of the search warrant "could precipitate violence as occurred following the public disclosure of the search warrant executed at Mar-a-Lago," the prosecutors for special counsel Jack Smith warned in the document. As Politico notes, Trump's public announcement of the FBI search of his resort club was followed by an uptick in threats against federal law enforcement and culminated in the fatal shooting of a man who attempted to infiltrate a bureau building in Cincinnati. Smith also argued that Trump introduces a "significant risk of tampering with evidence, seeking to influence or intimidate potential witnesses, and 'otherwise seriously jeopardizing' the Government's ongoing investigations." "These are not hypothetical considerations in this case," the prosecutors wrote in the 71-page, April 21 brief. "Following his defeat in the 2020 presidential election, the former President propagated false claims of fraud (including swearing to false allegations in a federal court filing), pressured state and federal officials to violate their legal duties, and retaliated against those who did not comply with his demands, culminating in violence at the U.S. Capitol on January 6." The newly unveiled filings are part of the months-long legal dispute between Twitter, now known as X, and the special counsel over whether the company could inform Trump of the investigators' search warrant before complying with the subpoena. Twitter, then newly purchased by Elon Musk, argued that Trump's private messages on the platform could be covered by executive privilege and wanted to give him the opportunity to use it. But U.S. District Court Judge Beryl Howell rejected the argument and ultimately held Twitter in contempt of court, fining the company $350,000 for missing the ordered compliance deadline. Two men are on the run after officials say they are accused of shooting a teenager. Spalding County sheriff officials said on Sept. 14, deputies received reports of a person shot on Sammy Circle. When deputies arrived, they located 17-year-old Tavares Pough, who had been shot multiple times. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Pough was taken to the hospital stable. Spalding County Sheriff Darrell Dix said the shooting stemmed from a dispute. This was not a random act; these people knew each other, he said. It appears that this shooting was the culmination of an ongoing dispute between suspects and the victim. There is every indication that the incident was planned by the suspects before they arrived at the house, and it was their mission to shoot Mr. Pough. Deputies have not specified the relationship between the suspects and the victim. Authorities arrested 24-year-old Caley Bowen Friday morning and charged her with party to a crime, false imprisonment and kidnapping. TRENDING STORIES: Deputies are still searching for the following suspects: Javante Shaquill Wideman-Gowan, 30, is charged with possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, aggravated assault, aggravated battery and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Michael O. Eke, 25, is charged with possessing a firearm during the commission of a crime, aggravated assault and aggravated battery. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Authorities said the two suspects are believed to be in a grey Toyota Camry with the Georgia license plate RMX 6293. The car may have been seen in the Clayton County area. Anyone with information regarding the suspects whereabouts is asked to contact Sgt. Ciara Belcher at the Spalding County Sheriffs Office at 770-467-4282. IN OTHER NEWS: Scratched into the side of an abandoned cat carrier, a heartbreaking message awaited staff of a North Carolina animal rescue organization, the group said in a Sept. 14 Facebook post. The note, etched in black ink, read, My name is Baby. My mommy cant take care of me anymore. Please find me and my sister a new home. Thank you! The two cats were left alone at Brother Wolf Animal Rescue, which is located in Asheville. The pair was placed in the shade of our play yard, the rescue organization said in the post. Not only did Brother Wolf Animal Rescue bring in the two cats, but they left an understanding note for the previous owner on its Facebook post. The organization thanked the person who left the cats and assured them the two were now safe. We understand you didnt have another choice, and we hope you are ok, the shelter wrote in the post. Several people expressed how sad the situation was in the comment section of the post. Thank you for using compassion instead of judgment. Im glad these sweet babies will have a chance with a new family, one commentor said. Im sure the owner loved them enough to make the heart breaking choice to take them where they would be safe. sending good wishes that this story has a happy next chapter, another wrote. The two cats have since been renamed Junebug and Magpie, Fox Carolina reports. Junebug has medium-length hair; while Magpie is a shorthair cat, according to adoption information on Brother Wolfs website. Both cats are also listed as having special medical needs on the site. Rescue of scared critter shuts down busy California highway. See the adorable animal Litter of puppies taken to SC shelter with no mom. Stray dog accepted them as her own Noise inside apartment wall leads firefighters to adorable critters. See the babies FILE PHOTO: Flags are seen outside Novo Nordisk headquarters in Copenhagen COPENHAGEN (Reuters) - Novo Nordisk's shares fell on Monday after financial news agency MarketWire reported that U.S. drug regulators had recently issued a report detailing quality control lapses at the group's Clayton, North Carolina plant, citing sources. Reuters was not immediately able to authenticate the report. Novo Nordisk declined to comment on the report, but said in an emailed statement that the site was "running and producing for the market". Clayton is a major site for the company's production of its active pharmaceutical ingredients, including semaglutide, which is the drug used in its hugely popular weight-loss drug Wegovy and type 2 diabetes drug Ozempic. Shares in the company were down 3% at 1133 GMT. MarketWire did not specify when the FDA inspection occurred. The FDA did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters, and does not typically comment on individual inspections. The FDA's inspection dashboard, a public website, was not currently listing any inspections as having occurred this year, but the dashboard is not a comprehensive record of all its inspections. MarketWire's article on Monday stated that FDA inspectors had issued a Form 483 following their inspection. According to the FDA, a Form 483 is a type of agency report containing "observations" that FDA inspectors "deem to be objectionable". (Reporting by Maggie Fick and Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen; Editing by Anna Ringstrom and Jan Harvey) The Oconee County Sheriffs Office reported the following incidents: BRAKE LIGHTS: On Sept. 8, Deputy Bill Reynolds was monitoring traffic on Malcom Bridge Road near Lenru Road when he observed a Nissan Sentra with a failed brake light. After a traffic stop, the 56-year-old Norcross man indicated he only spoke Spanish, so the deputy asked him in Spanish for his drivers license. The man was unlicensed, so he was taken to jail and the car turned over to a passenger. STOLEN BRA: On Sept. 8, Deputy Jonathan Strum was dispatched to Walmart, where a 23-year-old Monroe woman was taken into custody for shoplifting. She was observed browsing in the store and drinking two White Claw beverages, then putting on a bra and placing some chewing gum in her pocket. She was also banned from Walmart. PINK BRA: On Sept. 9, Deputy Annessa Glenn responded to a report that a caller had seen a body on the side of Georgia Highway 316 near Mars Hill Road. She arrived about 2:40 a.m. and as she shined a flashlight in the tree line, she observed a man crouching down behind a tree. She called out to the person and a man exited the woods wearing a pink bra, tank top and white underwear briefs. She also noticed a rope on the ground. The man, who was wearing pink lipstick, gave his name as George, but it was actually Leroy. After getting his correct name, the deputy determined that he had been barred from Oconee County. He finally explained he was in the woods engaging in auto-erotic strangulation with the rope. Upon learning he was going to jail, he asked the deputy if it was necessary to arrest him as his bond on a previous arrest was set at $10,000. The 71-year-old Athens man was transported to jail, where he was incarcerated without bond due to a contempt of court charge. A judge, for a reason not revealed in the report, had ordered him to stay out of the county. TWO DRINKS: On Sept. 9, Deputy Dustin Mines was patrolling on Georgia Highway 316 near Mars Hill Road when he saw a 2011 Ford Taurus fail to maintain its lane. He conducted a traffic stop and could smell marijuana smoke, but the 29-year-old Meriwether County man denied smoking weed. A breath test also showed the presence of alcohol and he admitted having two drinks. He was charged with DUI. Oconee Blotter: Six traffic pullovers ended with trips to jail in Oconee County MAYBE TWO: On Sept. 9, Deputy Annessa Glenn was patrolling on Georgia Highway 316 near Monroe Highway when she saw a Ford Fusion cross the fog line. She made a traffic stop and the 21-year-old Bogart woman, with bloodshot eyes, explained she had been to a wedding and maybe had two drinks. An alcohol test showed a reading of 0.14 and she was charged with DUI. EXCAVATER STOLEN: On Sept. 9, Deputy Boris Argueta responded to a report of a stolen mini excavator at a construction site at the Oconee Connector. The Takeuchi brand machine was valued at $25,000. The tractor does have a tracking device. SPIDER DISTRACTION: On Sept. 12, Cpl. Lex Ogan was traveling on Highway 316 when he saw a Nissan Rogue swerving in the road. He followed and as the behavior continued, he made a traffic stop. The 30-year-old Augusta woman explained she was trying to kill a spider. The woman had watery eyes, slurred speech and smelled of alcohol, but she denied drinking. However, she explained she had other issues that may contribute to her driving including an eye stigmatism, arthritis in the hips and a disc problem in her back. She failed roadside sobriety tests and was uncooperative in blowing into an alcohol testing device. However, she was charged with DUI. MAN ARRESTED: On Sept. 12, Cpl. Kenji Dorsey and Deputy Doug Mattocks were dispatched to Highland Oaks subdivision where a resident heard a woman calling for help. Deputies arrived and the woman was uncooperative, but eventually confessed that she was choked by her 30-year-old male companion. The man came outside and became loud and uncooperative as deputies tried to find out what happened. He was eventually charged with aggravated assault and obstruction. This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Oconee Blotter: Athens man wearing pink bra violated judge's ban Update, 3:20 p.m. The Oklahoma Department of Corrections says 32-year-old Adrian Sample is back in custody after walking away from the Oklahoma City Community Corrections Center on Sunday night. Original Story, 9:50 a.m. ODOC: Authorities searching for escaped inmate OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Authorities are looking for an inmate who unlawfully walked away from a facility in Oklahoma City Sunday night. According to ODOC, 32-year-old Adrian Sample walked away from the Oklahoma City Community Corrections Center around 11:45 p.m. on Sunday. LOCAL NEWS: Logan County Deputy hit by suspected DUI driver Officials say Sample is serving a six-year sentence for burglary, larceny and distribution of CDS/possession with intent out of Tulsa County. If you see Sample or know where he is, ODOC says not to approach him and call 911. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. A height-adjustable universal changing table has been added to the Ohio Statehouse. >>Its really important; Adult changing tables being installed in the Miami Valley This changing table is necessary to help meet the restroom needs of people with disabilities and those with complex medical conditions. The Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Services and Changing Spaces Ohio collaborated to get this changing table into the statehouse. People with disabilities who have mobility challenges need access to public venues just like any other group, yet the typically accessible restroom stall does not provide the equipment or the space necessary to meet their needs. The addition of a universal changing table is an improvement to accessibility that underscores that the Ohio Statehouse truly is the Peoples House. Capitol Square Review Advisory Board Executive Director Laura Battocletti said. Universal changing tables are similar to infant changing tables found in restrooms in various types of businesses. But, these tables are designed to accommodate the height and weight of adults, the spokesperson said. Without these tables, children and adults with disabilities must be changed on the ground or in unsafe environments. >>Dayton man indicted, accused of deadly July shooting The Statehouses mobile, universal changing table is located in the Mothers Room, which is a private room located on the ground floor. The changing table can accommodate people up to 400 pounds. The project for getting the statehouse a permanent changing table happened when LMK Advocacy reached out to Changing Spaces Ohio for assistance in creating a changing station at the statehouse. For the Ohio Association of County Boards Developmental Disabilities Advocacy and Awareness Day in March, the Montgomery County Board purchased two mobile universal changing tables for the Statehouse so adults with disabilities could meet with their elected officials as part of this special event. After the event, the Montgomery County Board and Changing Spaces worked with Battocletti to permanently install a universal changing table. >>Today is a historic day; Flying taxi company announces 2,000 jobs in Dayton region The addition of these tables provides a safe, hygienic, and dignified space for people to address their restroom needs, and we are proud to partner with Director Battocletti and the Ohio Statehouse to make this much-needed accommodation a reality, said Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Services Superintendent Dr. Pamela Combs. People rally to support and oppose the "heartbeat bill" outside the Ohio House of Representatives chamber at the Ohio Statehouse on April, 10, 2019. This November, Ohioans will vote on abortion, contraception and other reproductive decisions. The proposed amendment, called Issue 1 on the Nov. 7 ballot, would enshrine the right to an abortion in the state constitution up until viability, which is the point when a fetus can survive outside the uterus with reasonable measures. This is typically around 24 weeks gestation. Doctors could perform abortions after that point to save a pregnant patient's life or health. The measure would also expressly state that there's a right to access contraception, miscarriage care, fertility treatment and continuing a pregnancy. The vote comes more than a year after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, sending decisions about abortion policy back to the states. That same day, a law banning most abortions in Ohio took effect. That 2019 law, called the "heartbeat bill" by its supporters, banned doctors from performing abortions after embryonic cardiac activity was detected, which is about six weeks gestation. While the law had exceptions for life-threatening health conditions, many doctors were confused about when and how that would apply. Lena Collins, manager of social impact at Ohio Women's Alliance, Jordyn Close, deputy director with Ohio Women's Alliance and Maggie Scotece, interim executive director of the Abortion Fund of Ohio, cheer during a news conference after proponents dropped off enough signatures to make the November ballot. That law is currently on hold because of a court order. The Ohio Supreme Court is reviewing that case and could make a decision as soon as later this year. In response to that law and other abortion restrictions, reproductive rights proponents are asking voters to approve a constitutional amendment on Nov. 7 that allows doctors to decide when pregnant patients obtain abortions in Ohio. Opponents say the language is too broad and will lead to a slew of dangerous consequences. Readers submitted questions about this proposed amendment. Here are some responses to help you understand the issue. If Ohio Issue 1 passes, what language would be added to the Ohio Constitution? A. Every individual has a right to make and carry out ones own reproductive decisions, including but not limited to decisions on: contraception; fertility treatment; continuing ones own pregnancy; miscarriage care; and abortion. B. The State shall not, directly or indirectly, burden, penalize, prohibit, interfere with, or discriminate against either: An individuals voluntary exercise of this right or A person or entity that assists an individual exercising this right, unless the State demonstrates that it is using the least restrictive means to advance the individuals health in accordance with widely accepted and evidence-based standards of care. However, abortion may be prohibited after fetal viability. But in no case may such an abortion be prohibited if in the professional judgment of the pregnant patients treating physician it is necessary to protect the pregnant patients life or health. C. As used in this Section: Fetal viability means the point in a pregnancy when, in the professional judgment of the pregnant patients treating physician, the fetus has a significant likelihood of survival outside the uterus with reasonable measures. This is determined on a case-by-case basis. State includes any governmental entity and any political subdivision. D. This Section is self-executing. Gov. Mike DeWine signs Ohio's six-week abortion ban into law in 2019. How many abortions occur in Ohio? How many are performed after viability? The Ohio Department of Health tracks how many abortions occur in Ohio and compiles that data in an annual report. The most recent report is from 2021 when 21,813 abortions were performed in Ohio, including 20,716 (or 95%) abortions obtained by Ohio residents. Most abortions that year, 87.5%, occurred at 12 weeks gestation or earlier. Only 0.7% occurred after 21 weeks gestation; the state does not detail the specific week of the abortion beyond that general category. The Ohio Department of Health's 2022 report will be released before Oct. 1 and will offer insight into what happened after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June 2022 and Ohio's ban on most abortions took effect. #WeCount, a national reporting effort sponsored by the Society of Family Planning, has more up-to-date numbers. It found that Ohio dropped from more than 2,000 abortions performed in April 2022 to 800 in July and 770 in August as a result of the state's abortion restrictions. Didn't we just vote on Ohio Issue 1? The proposed amendment on reproductive decisions is Issue 1 on the Nov. 7 ballot. That might be a little confusing because Ohioans just voted on an Issue 1 in August that, if passed, would have raised the threshold needed to amend the state constitution. Voters rejected that proposal, 57% to 43%. But each election, the ballot issues are assigned numbers starting with one and that means there are dozens of Ohio Issue 1s from past years. Ohio Issue 2 on the Nov. 7 ballot is about legalizing recreational marijuana. Why can politicians write new ballot language? Ohio has a process for citizens to put issues on the ballot. One of the steps involves the Ohio Ballot Board, a five-member panel that writes the ballot language voters will read at the polls. This language does not need to match the language proponents used on petitions circulated to get the measure on the ballot. If the measure is approved, the full amendment's language not the ballot language will appear in the Ohio Constitution. The current Ohio Ballot Board is composed of three Republicans, including Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose, and two Democrats. The partisan balance of the board depends on who wins the Ohio Secretary of State's race. Does the Ohio Issue 1 leave the possibility of an abortion up to the moment of birth? The proposed constitutional amendment allows doctors to perform abortions after viability (around 24 weeks gestation) "to protect the pregnant patients life or health." Opponents of the measure say this language gives physicians wide latitude to perform abortions late into pregnancy while stripping state lawmakers and courts of the ability to stop them. "By failing to explicitly define viability, and by giving abortionists the final word in determining when a child is viable on a case-by-case basis, Issue 1 leaves the door wide open for painful, late-term abortions," said Amy Natoce, spokeswoman for Protect Women Ohio, which opposes the amendment. Proponents of the amendment say doctors will only be able to perform abortions if the patient's life or health is at risk. They add that doctors and patients should make that decision, not lawmakers. "People need abortions at different points in pregnancy," executive director of Pro-Choice Ohio Kellie Copeland said. "We think that it is critically important that there not be a law on the books that prevents people from getting live-saving care, that forces people to continue what could be a doomed pregnancy against their will, against medical advice." How does Ohio Issue 1 compare to abortion access under Roe v. Wade? Both Ohio's proposed constitutional amendment and the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Roe v. Wade use "viability" as the line between when abortion is legal and when it can be restricted. Viability is when a fetus can survive outside the uterus which is about 24 weeks gestation. Because fetal development and access to healthcare vary, viability isn't a completely fixed mark. Survival rates can differ dramatically depending on when delivery occurs and the quality of treatment available. For example, survival ranged from about 30% at 22 weeks gestation with active treatment at birth to 71.4% at 24 weeks gestation with active treatment, according to a 2022 report on extremely preterm babies born at 19 U.S. academic centers between 2013 and 2018. The report found that 21.2% of extremely preterm babies had severe neurodevelopmental impairment at their 2-year checkup; 48.7% had no or mild impairment. Like in Roe, the ballot measure would allow abortions later in pregnancy to save the mother's life or health. Ohio Issue 1 uses the term "individual" instead of "woman." Does that mean a minor has a right to an abortion without their parent's consent? The measure uses the term "individual" or "pregnant patient" instead of "woman." Abortion opponents argue that language gives minors the same rights to make reproductive decisions as adults, eliminating limits like parental approval to have an abortion. "This is very deliberate the way the amendment is written. It's very open-ended so it includes everyone," said Columbus-area attorney Mehek Cooke, who opposes the amendment. Copeland explains the word choice: "(The word individual), It includes nonbinary people. It includes trans people. There are lots of individuals who may need abortion care, and I think just legally and technically that is the more appropriate word." If Issue 1 passes, judges would be tasked with deciding whether abortion limits, ranging from bans and a mandatory 24-hour waiting period to parental consent, violate the new language in the state constitution. Attorneys offer vastly different opinions on how that would go. Dan Kobil, a professor of constitutional law at Capital University, said the amendment would have "zero effect on parental consent." Meanwhile, Frank Scaturro, senior counsel at the conservative Judicial Crisis Network, said: "This Ohio proposal would out-of-hand eliminate the possibility of any parental involvement at all." More: What would an Ohio abortion amendment mean for parental consent? 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: Ohio Issue 1: What would abortion rights measure do? Olena Zelenska , First Lady of Ukraine, will meet with the Clinton family and philanthropists who support Ukraine. Source: Olena Zelenska on Telegram Details: In addition, Zelenska, along with the Director General of UNESCO, will open an exhibition dedicated to the destruction of cultural heritage, recorded in photographs of Ukrainian monuments bombarded by Russia. Quote: "In the coming days I will have several speeches in various circles of the UN General Assembly. In particular, I will speak of Ukrainian children and how they are forced to worry about the enemys attack. I will speak of Ukrainian women and the recently adopted strategy of equal pay at the event dedicated to the International Day of Equal Pay. I will hold a number of important bilateral meetings, including a meeting with the Director-General of the World Health Organisation." Background: On Monday 18 September, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in New York and announced his participation in the UN General Assembly and other bilateral meetings. 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! KANSAS CITY, Mo. One person was critically injured Monday in a crash involving a school bus in Kansas Citys Historic Northeast, police say. Officers and medics were called to the area of Nicholson Avenue and N. Chestnut Avenue around 8:15 a.m. Monday for a reported injury crash. Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android Police determined that a gray Hyundai was headed eastbound on Nicholson, and a school bus was traveling southbound on Chestnut. According to police, the driver of the Hyundai didnt stop at the stop sign and was hit by the school bus. Medics took the driver of the Hyundai to the hospital in critical condition. The school bus driver, bus monitor and two children on the bus were not injured in the crash, police said. FOX4 is working to confirm what school district the bus was operating for. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. Five years after opening, one of the Triangles most unique pizzerias will shut down next month. Chef Teddy Diggs left the world of fine dining to open Coronato Pizza in Carrboro. The pizzeria focused on a thin kind of Roman style pizza and classic toppings, plus popular mozzarella croquettes and one of the areas only spirit-free cocktail programs. Diggs announced the closing Monday in a social media post. The last day of service looks to be about a month away, with Coronato continuing to serve pizzas and dishes until Oct. 15. Dispute with neighbor The closing announcement alludes to significant health and safety concerns that the restaurant is working through, but doesnt mention a neighboring cigar shop specifically. As reported earlier this year in The News & Observer, Coronato has been in a months-long dispute with its neighbor in the South Green Shopping Center. In April, Diggs filed a lawsuit against the cigar bar Oasis Cigar Lounge and the shopping centers owner Woodhill NC, LLC, arguing that secondhand smoke had harmed Coronatos business. Since February, Coronato has operated as takeout-only over concerns about secondhand smoke, the lawsuit says. From fine dining to pizza Diggs said in the closing post that the restaurant couldnt survive solely on takeout. Though our efforts to mitigate the challenge and transition to a take-out only service model were in good faith, it was not meant to be a sustainable solution, the Instagram post reads. Instead, we were hoping for a temporary fix until the challenging circumstances could be resolved. We have since exhausted ourselves, and our resources, while waiting for a solution that never came. Before Coronato, Diggs had been executive chef at the fine-dining Chapel Hill restaurant Il Palio, serving refined Italian dishes in a dark and romantic dining room. Diggs then left the restaurant to open Coronato, inspired by trips to Italy and the pizza of Rome. When Coronato opened, former News & Observer dining critic Greg Cox named it one of the best new restaurants to open in 2019. The next year he named it among the Triangles best pizzerias. In an interview Monday, Diggs said the lawsuit is still pending, with the parties having recently wrapped up the discovery phase. Diggs said he made the closing announcement a month ahead of time to give the restaurants staff time to look for jobs and for diners to consider stopping in. We wanted this to be a good place to work and for us to offer the best food we could, the best service we could, Diggs said in an interview. Hopefully people can find some time to support us and have some pizza in the next month. U.S. citizens Siamak Namazi, second from left, and Morad Tahbaz, right, are welcomed by people upon disembarking from a Qatari jet upon their arrival at the Doha International Airport in Doha on Monday. Five US detainees, three previously identified as Siamak Namazi, Morad Tahbaz and Emad Sharqi and two who wish to remain anonymous, released by Iran landed in Doha in a prisoner swap on Monday after $6 billion in frozen funds were transferred to Iranian accounts in Qatar. Hi there OnPolitics readers. After the Biden administration negotiated a prisoner exchange with Iran, five Americans imprisoned in the country are en route to the United States. A plane carrying the Americans, plus two of their family members, left Iran early Monday morning, USA TODAYs Kim Hjelmgaard, Josh Meyer, Francesca Chambers and Michael Collins reported. What did Iran get in return? As part of the deal, $6 billion in frozen Iranian oil revenues was released by the Biden administration, and five Iranians charged or convicted of non-violent crimes were freed by the United States. Who was freed? Three of the American prisoners, all dual U.S.-Iran citizens, are Siamak Namazi, Emad Sharghi and Morad Tahbaz. Two of the other former prisoners did not want their identities released. Whats the backdrop? The exchange comes before a United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York this week, where President Joe Biden and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi will both speak. It also comes as the American president seeks his second term in office, and Republican presidential candidates in recent weeks have blasted the Biden administration's decision to push ahead with the prisoner exchange. More on what's in the deal, and why now: Iran releases five Americans in prisoner swap deal negotiated by Joe Biden Hear their stories: Americans freed from Iran prison feared they had been left to 'rot' Stay in the known on politics: Sign up for the OnPolitics newsletter This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Prisoner swap with Iran: What to know Utahns have a discreditable legacy of high bankruptcy rates and excessive debt. Personal finance experts became increasingly concerned about the future economic prosperity of Utahns in the early 2000s. They joined forces with teachers, community advocates and legislators to pass legislation in 2003 requiring high school students to complete a personal finance course in order to graduate. Utahs class of 2008 was the first in the country to graduate under that mandate. Since the graduation mandate was implemented, public officials, educators and community partners have worked together to strengthen and improve upon it. Consequently, Utah is seen as a leader in the nation for financial education. Twenty-two states have followed our lead in requiring high school students to take a personal finance course. A performance review conducted by the Utah auditor and treasurer in 2018 found that adults who took Utahs mandated financial literacy course in high school appear to have better financial knowledge and make better financial choices than those who did not take the course (because they are not from Utah or graduated before the course was required). While the progress has been positive, theres still much room for improvement. Utah is fourth in the nation for bankruptcy. Average consumer debt in the Beehive State was well over the national average at $114,293 in 2021, and a separate study indicates we have the worst debt-to-salary ratio in the country. Financial education is a top priority for us respectively as the state treasurer and the CEO of the Utah Association of CPAs and chair of the Utah Financial Empowerment Coalition. We have a number of initiatives designed to empower Utahns with financial knowledge and skills, starting in elementary school and going through retirement. Related We work closely with the Utah State Board of Education to review and revise the Strands and Standards and end-of-course exam. Were currently working on a project with the board of education to overhaul the Finance in the Classroom resource for teachers to bring it up to date. Were also exploring the possibility of hosting student-led community nights next spring, where students will lead community discussions and lessons on some of the financial topics they cover in the financial literacy class. In addition, the Office of State Treasurer and the Utah Financial Empowerment Coalition just launched a new statewide investment challenge for students in grades 4-12, as a replacement for the Stock Market Game, which since 2018 had been administered by our organizations. The Utah Treasurers Investment Challenge is funded by donations from community partners, and there is no cost to teachers or their schools for students to participate. This is a great program to familiarize young students with investment and economic concepts they can begin using now. The sooner a person starts investing, the more time they have to grow wealth and recover from market downturns. We also support a number of efforts to promote financial education among adults. Five years ago, we were made aware of a need to support the financial empowerment of Utah women and launched an annual Utah Women in the Money Conference. Women face some unique financial situations. Statistically, they live longer than men and are more likely to outlive their assets. Women are also more likely to assume caretaker responsibilities, teach their children about money and help elderly or disabled loved ones manage their finances. Additionally, women are increasingly playing a greater role in the workforce and market. More than 40% of American women are the primary breadwinners in their households, and women account for 70%-80% of overall consumer spending. This years conference will take place on Thursday, Sept. 28 from 6 p.m to 8 p.m. and Friday, Sept. 29 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., with options to attend in person or virtually. Registration for the in-person conference is $15 for Thursday and $25 for Friday, or $35 for both Thursday and Friday. Scholarships are available for those in need. There is no cost to attend the conference virtually, but registration is still required. For more information and to register for the conference, visit womeninthemoney.org. The state treasurer chairs a council of more than 50 public and private entities that share a common mission to improve the financial well-being of Utahns. That group addresses various issues related to personal finance as they arise. To learn more about the Office of State Treasurers financial empowerment initiatives, visit treasurer.utah.gov/utahfe. Utah has come a long way in empowering its residents to be financially resilient, but the state still has a long way to go. We are eager and passionate to continue pushing forward initiatives to help Utahns help themselves build financial security and success. Marlo Oaks is the state treasurer of Utah. Susan Speirs is the CEO of the Utah Association of CPAs and Chair of the Utah Financial Empowerment Coalition. The U.S. News & World Reports 2023-2024 Best Colleges rankings, released Monday, are music to the Florida A&M University communitys ears as the HBCU has more to brag about. FAMU rose to No. 91 among the nations public universities a whopping 12 spots from last years placement at No. 103 meeting a long-time goal of joining the Top 100, which has been highlighted as a priority in the university's Boldly Striking five-year strategic plan during the past few years. The university also celebrates its continued standing of being the No. 1 public HBCU (historically Black college or university) in the nation for the fifth consecutive year, moving up to third place compared to seventh place last year. In addition, FAMU ranked No. 170 among national universities compared to its No. 202 ranking last year. FAMU's ranking in 2022: FAMU maintains top-ranked public HBCU standing nationally by U.S. News & World Report This is outstanding news, FAMU President Larry Robinson said in a prepared statement. This reflects our collective effort and our unstinting commitment to the success of our students and our making good use of the funds invested in us by Florida taxpayers, funding agencies, private-sector partners, philanthropic foundations and friends. Florida A&M University President Larry Robinson speaks on the 22nd floor of the Capitol during FAMU Day on Thursday, April 13, 2023. FAMUs leap to 91st place in the rankings follows a similar upward trajectory two years ago when the university jumped 13 slots from 117 to 104 among nationally ranked universities in the 2021-2022 list. While FAMU now holds the No. 3 spot among the nations public and private HBCUs knocking Tuskegee University down to No. 4 after it ranked No. 3 last year the No. 1 spot continues to be held by Spelman College and Howard University comes in second place once again. Other highlights from the U.S. News rankings include FAMU moving up two steps from No. 23 to No. 21 among all national universities on the Social Mobility Index, which measures the ability of universities to alter the economic trajectory of students and their families. Other FAMU news: Treasure trove of cherished memories: FAMUs Gibbs Hall coming down I am thrilled to see our institution's remarkable progress, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Allyson Watson said in a prepared statement. Our ascent in the U.S. News & World Report rankings underscores our unwavering commitment to excellence. We will continue to boldly strike forward as an internationally renowned institution of higher learning, she added. Our alumni expect the best from us, our students deserve the best and our faculty and staff contribute to us being the best. Allyson Watson is FAMU's provost and vice president of academic affairs. Related news: 'Stellar hire': FAMU announces Allyson Watson as provost, VP for Academic Affairs While FAMU reaches a significant milestone with its rankings, it continues to work on other prioritized goals such as pushing to attain Carnegie Research 1 classification. The university was awarded more than $96 million in research funding in the latest fiscal year. The university also had a $25.7 million fundraising record for 2022-2023. "We cant rest on our laurels, Robinson said. We will renew our commitment to Excellence With Caring and continue to hold forth the promise of opportunity to the young people and their families for whom we have been a beacon for nearly 136 years. Robinson says the latest rankings will inspire the FAMU community to strive to go even higher, according to a university release. He plans to hold a press conference Monday at 10 a.m. on the steps of FAMUs Lee Hall to further celebrate the rankings. Here are the placements of the Top 10 public and private HBCUs across the nation in the U.S. News & World Report 2023-2024 Best Colleges rankings: No. 1: Spelman College, private No. 2: Howard University, private No. 3: Florida A&M University, public No. 4: Tuskegee University, private No. 5: Morehouse College, private No. 6: Xavier University of Louisiana, private No. 7: Hampton University, private No. 7 North Carolina A&T University, public No. 9: Claflin University, private No. 9: Delaware State University, public Contact Tarah Jean at tjean@tallahassee.com or follow her on twitter @tarahjean_. Moments from Florida A&M University's graduation ceremony on Saturday at the Al Lawson Multipurpose Gymnasium. 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: FAMU: Top 100 in U.S. News & World Report rankings as best public HBCU Police are investigating the death of a 24-day-old infant. Christian Carlino died at UPMC Childrens Hospital on March 16. His cause of death was ruled fentanyl toxicity by the Allegheny County Medical Examiners Office. Carlino was taken to the hospital after an incident in the 800 block of Climax Street in the citys Allentown neighborhood, according to the medical examiner. Pittsburgh Public Safety told Channel 11 that detectives are investigating. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW TRENDING NOW: National Cheeseburger Day: Deals from McDonalds, Wendys, others Several local school districts evacuated after bomb threats Firefighters respond to incident at Kennywood Park VIDEO: Community fun day honors teen murdered at haunted hayride DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts A jury found Varshaun Brown not guilty of the murder of his cousin a 37-year-old who was fatally shot during a drug raid conducted at his home by Georgia authorities a few years ago. In the early hours of May 4, 2021, Camden County deputies used a battering ram to burst into Browns Woodbine, Georgia, residence to execute a search warrant. Once inside, gunfire ensued, leading to the occupants getting shot and, ultimately, Latoya James death. She had no connection to the warrant that was carried out that morning, and according to news reports, she was sleeping when it happened. Varshaun Brown was found not guilty of the murder of his cousin Latoya James. She was fatally shot during a 2021 drug raid at Browns home. (News4Jax/First Coast News/YouTube) Her family compared her death to the death of Breonna Taylor, an essential worker who was fatally shot by police officers in her Louisville, Kentucky, apartment in 2020. Her death, along with those of other Black people killed at the hands of law enforcement, sparked global protests against racism and police brutality. Related: I Couldnt Recognize Her: Family of Model Found Dead In Downtown Los Angeles Says She Was Discovered with Leg Up In Gruesome Scene Days After Telling Friends That She Was Going on Date Bodycam footage shows deputies quickly walk onto Browns property and yell, Sheriffs Office. Search warrant. Come to the door. Moments after they entered, multiple shots rang out. Throughout the video, one of the deputies shields is obstructing the view inside the home. Authorities argued that Brown started the shooting. As First Coast News reported, in court, prosecutors said that James would be alive if Brown hadnt shot at the deputies. WATCH THE VIDEO HERE. Last year, James family filed a $25 million federal lawsuit against Camden County deputy sheriff Jim Procter and the other deputies linked to the incident. It alleges that deputies gave unarmed James merely 2.5 seconds to answer or come to the door before they breached the door and killed her. Per the lawsuit, James was struck in the back and the shoulder by the deputies. James attorneys released a statement on Thursday, Sept. 14, championing the jurys decision. Today, the jury made it absolutely clear that Varshaun Brown is not responsible for Latoya James death, and there was only one other group shooting, the statement said. Furthermore, we are confident that the other convictions and this draconian sentence will be overturned on appeal. According to Action News Jax, Brown was found guilty of assaulting a public safety officer and a drug-related charge. The simple fact is that the Camden County Sheriffs Department gunned Latoya James down in cold blood, and theyve been doing everything they could since to distract people from that fact, the attorneys continued. This overreaching prosecution was their last chance, and theres nowhere else to turn. By David Brunnstrom and Simon Lewis WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Pacific island countries will meet with President Joe Biden next week for a second summit with the United States, Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum Henry Puna and a senior State Department official said on Monday. Puna made the announcement at an event hosted by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in New York ahead of the annual U.N. General Assembly. Richard Verma, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, confirmed at the same event the summit would be held next week, but did not give a specific date. U.S. officials had previously said Biden would host the leaders in September. "Currently our senior officials are in negotiations with Washington over the outcomes that we would like to see when we meet with President Biden next week," Puna said. "I'm very hopeful that those outcomes will translate into concrete actions moving forward, because right now, there's a lot of issues and challenges confronting our Pacific region. Apart from climate change, there's our economic recovery from COVID-19," Puna added. Puna said the Pacific island region had gone from a period of strategic neglect just a decade ago to become a subject of strategic interest, competition and "manipulation" today, a reference to the geopolitical rivalry for influence in the region between the United States and China. "We must realize that the strategic interest and attention we enjoy today will not last forever, and we must capitalize on it in a manner that will ensure sustainable gains for our region and for our people, for decades to come," Puna said. He said the stance of the Pacific island countries had been clear: "we will engage with any partner who is willing to work with us, rather than around us." Mark Brown, prime minister of the Cook Islands and current chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, said at the event the region was looking to the Washington summit for "tangible" U.S. engagement that would help economic regrowth through improved transportation links and increased trade. With climate change the "single greatest existential threat" to the low lying nations, they also sought strong U.S. advocacy and leadership on the issue and significant U.S. contributions to the Green Climate Fund at a pledging conference in Germany next month, Brown said. Verma said Washington was "determined to be an enduring partner to the islands of the Indo-Pacific - determined to be responsive to your priorities, determined to help you tackle 21st century challenges and make the most of new opportunities, and determined to do it with all of you together." He added that the United States "will never lose sight of our common vision for this region - an Indo-Pacific that is free and open, resilient and connected, prosperous and secure." Biden hosted a first summit with 14 Pacific island nations a year ago, at which his administration pledged to help stave off China's "economic coercion," and he promised to work harder with allies and partners to address islanders' needs. (Reporting by David Brunnstrom; Additional reporting by Trevor Hunnicutt and Simon Lewis; Editing by Mark Porter, Andrea Ricci and Sandra Maler) Lawyers look on television screen, dispaying the live broadcast of the proceeding from the Supreme Court of Pakistan, in Karachi Lawyers look on television screen, dispaying the live broadcast of the proceeding from the Supreme Court of Pakistan, in Karachi By Asif Shahzad ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - Proceedings from Pakistan's Supreme Court were broadcast live on Monday by state television for the first time, giving an unprecedented view into the workings of an institution that has historically had a huge impact on the country's politics. The move marks the beginning of the tenure of new Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa as Pakistan's top judge. Isa, 64, was sworn in as chief justice on Sunday after he became the most senior judge of the court on the retirement of his predecessor Justice Umar Ata Bandial . Isa's first move as the top judge was to open proceedings for live broadcast. "It is a majority consensus decision to telecast live," Isa said at the start of proceedings shown live by state-run broadcaster Pakistan Television. Previous attempts to broadcast proceedings live had been blocked by the court. The broadcast was shown uninterrupted by all major Pakistani channels. Adding to the interest of the proceedings was the nature of the case, which pertains to legislation that curtails the discretion of the chief justice to take up any legal matter directly, commonly known as suo moto action, and his powers to entrust cases to his fellow judges. The legislation passed by parliament earlier this year had pit the outgoing coalition government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif with Isa's predecessor. Supreme Court judges retire automatically upon reaching the age of 65, and the next most senior judge is elevated as the chief justice. There is no set tenure for a chief justice. Isa's elevation has garnered nationwide interest given his reputation as a maverick judge and his hard-hitting judgements criticising the role of the country's powerful military in politics. The military has ruled Pakistan for over three decades of its 76-year history, and wields enormous influence in politics, including making and breaking civilian governments. The judiciary has historically legalised military rule and, critics say, helped the country's generals remove elected leaders. Political parties and analysts say army generals are trying once again to strengthen their grip over country's governance under a caretaker government led by Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar, who comes from a pro-military party. Isa has given several landmark judgements during his judicial career, including a 2019 ruling that posed scathing questions about the role of the military and its Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) spy agency in brokering a deal between Islamists and the then government. Former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who was close to the then chief of the ISI Faiz Hameed, attempted to have Isa removed as a judge on charges of financial impropriety in 2018 - a charge that was thrown out in 2019 for want of evidence by his fellow judges. (Reporting by Asif Shahzad; Editing by Mark Potter) Lisa Ann Walter and Elaine Hendrix always knew their friendship was meant to be. Now, they have proof that their connection runs deep. On Ancestry's new YouTube series, UnFamiliar," the pair learned their great-grandparents actually lived on the same street as each other in New York City in the early 1900s. Walter found out the unexpected news when she got a surprise visit from Hendrix while filming the show. "Shut up! Oh my God," Walter said as she hugged Hendrix in Elizabeth Street Garden, which is the same lower Manhattan neighborhood their great-grandparents resided in. According to marriage records from the New York City Municipal Archives, Walter's maternal great-grandfather, Francesco Mansueto, lived at 250 Elizabeth Street after he immigrated from Italy to the U.S., while Hendrix's great-grandfather, Dominick DePersio, resided at 190 Elizabeth Street. Mansueto's marriage certificate also states that his wife, Clotilda Vinetti, who is Walter's maternal great-grandmother, lived at 261 Elizabeth Street. A marriage certificate shows that Lisa Ann Walter's great-grandparents lived on Elizabeth St. in New York City. (New York City Municipal Archives) A marriage certificate shows that Elaine Hendrix's great-grandfather lived on Elizabeth St. in New York City. (New York City Municipal Archives) "That is bizarre!" Walter said in an exclusive clip shared with TODAY on Sept. 18. "I know," Hendrix replied after telling her the news. Speaking to TODAY.com after the surprise reunion, Hendrix said she believed their great-grandparents had to have known each other because they were both of Italian descent and lived in the same neighborhood. "I think given that time in history, people who emigrated stayed within their community when they got here and so this would have been a predominantly Italian area so they had to have known each other," she said as Walter agreed. "They would have gone to church together," the "Abbott Elementary" star said. "They must have been in the same parish if nowhere else." Lisa Walter and Elaine Hendrix. (Courtesy Ancestry) Although these details about their ancestors were new, Walter said she wasn't really surprised. In fact, she said their generational connection just reaffirmed her suspicions that she and Hendrix were meant to be friends. "It's almost not a surprise," Walter said on the show. "Why in the world would we have met and become besties in six hours?" "It was fate," Hendrix replied. Walter and Hendrix's friendship dates back to 1998 when they played enemies in Lindsay Lohan's famous film "The Parent Trap." Since that movie, the two have remained close friends over the years, giving each other birthday shout-outs on Instagram and also going as each other's dates to the 2023 SAG Awards. Courtesy Ancestry While discussing their friendship with TODAY.com, the pair said they had an "instant" connection the first moment they met, and it was so intense that Walter said she immediately knew they would "grow old together." Its like a soul connection. I wanted to take care of her. I didnt want anything bad to happen to her. I dont know. I just felt deeply connected to her." As for Hendrix, the "Country Club" star explained that it was Walter's charming personality that drew her in. "Lisa's so warm and inviting and we're similar in a lot of ways and different in a lot of ways. So, we complement each other just in the places that we need to," she said. This article was originally published on TODAY.com Im writing this column from under my desk. Because Im about to weigh in on a controversial issue. More contentious than gun control, abortion or Donald Trump. Here goes. Im in favor of the stuffies. The giant ones Rhode Island tourism is deploying at national airports. You know those 7-foot fiberglass displays of minced clams, spices and breadcrumbs on a shell. I like it. I think Im the only one. People have been losing their minds over this, partly because the campaign will cost $4.5 million, with the gigantic stuffies about to be displayed first in LA, Detroit, Atlanta and Baltimore, all of which have direct routes to T.F. Green. The campaign has drawn an avalanche of pushback. So damn stupid, wrote a commenter named Tom Mulvey on The Journals Facebook post about it. So embarrassing!! added Mary Ann Sculley Bonin. Keith Elliott called it a strange looking blob on a plate. Airport installations depicting a giant stuffed clam and an 8-foot bottle of hot sauce are part of a marketing campaign to draw tourists to Rhode Island. And Mike Deniger made a widely held point: Who is going to look at that and say wow, a stuffed clam. Let me go to Rhode Island. I bet 3/4 wont know what it is. Thats why Im under my desk as I prepare to defend it. First, I feel bad for the R.I. tourism people. A few years ago, they were beat up for their marketing slogan Cooler & Warmer. Now this. Poor folks can't catch a break. Well, darn it, this time, I'm giving them applause. For one main reason. Theyre doing what marketing people need to do in 2023. Try something weird. Thats the only way to get attention. The traditional path to selling Rhode Island would be posters of coastlines and cobblestones. Except things like that are a dime a dozen. Nobody walking through an airport is going to stop for that. Like, nobody. But they might pause to check out a ginormous fiberglass stuffed clam. Especially since it features a red 8-foot-tall bottle of hot sauce next to it. Thats weird enough to stand out and maybe even make people look up from their phones. To their credit, our tourism folks will staff the stuffies. So when someone stops to ask if its a movie about mashed potatoes from Neptune invading planet Earth, theyll be able to pitch the state more traditionally. It would have been easy, and safe, to have just rolled out posters of beaches. Nobody would have beaten them up over that. But our tourism people had the gumption to forgive me stick their necks out, because they realize that weird works. Stuffie-style: Reveal of the airport Rhode Island 'stuffie' tourism installations Case in point: the 2020 Democratic National Convention vote roll call. Because of the pandemic, delegations declared by video, with tediously predictable state backdrops. But us? State party chairman Joe McNamara planted himself on Oakland Beach extolling the virtues of Rhode Islands official appetizer. He declared: The calamari comeback state casts 34 votes for the next president of the United States Joe Biden. With a good visual in mind, McNamara set up Iggys Boardwalk executive chef John Bordieri holding up a huge plate of it. Because of his black chefs uniform, Bordieri was dubbed The Calamari Ninja. People here piled on that, too, because RI voters are a tough crowd when public officials try something goofy. But it worked. The shtick led to Rhode Island stealing the show. No one talked about any other state's declaration, yet Joe's calamari thing went viral and put us on the map. Im guessing the stuffies could, too, with local news or social media doing stories and posts on what the heck is that giant blob in the airport? That's a marketing home run generating buzz. It might even start something, with Philly putting 7-foot Styrofoam cheesesteaks and Arkansas colossal fried pickles at Green, and I guarantee if they did that I'd write about it which I wouldn't do if they just displayed scenic posters, no chance. All right feel free to start shooting at me now. But as I write this under my desk, lifting my helmet on my pen above the foxhole, Ill say it again. In 2023, weird works, and I think the giant stuffies will, too. mpatinki@providencejournal.com This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: RI stuffie display in airports might just be weird enough to work A team of scientists and volunteers from the University of Reading in England recovered and digitized weather data from several ships that were bombed during the attack on Pearl Harbor in World War II. This nearly century-old data is offering clues how the war changed daily weather observations at the time. When the US naval base was attacked on December 7, 1941 by Japanese military forces, over 100 vessels were stationed there. During the initial attack, the USS Arizona and USS Oklahoma sank and the USS Nevada beached after being hit by a torpedo and at least six bombs. Most of the remaining vessels from the fleet eventually returned to service and the crew members resumed recording weather data among their other daily duties. [Related: The Rise Of The Tank Before World War II .] The paper published September 18 in the Geoscience Data Journal describes how weather data from WWII was recovered from 19 United States Navy ships. Some earlier research has suggested these years were abnormally warm, and this new dataset of over 630,000 records with more than 3 million individual observations, is helping piece together the mystery referred to as the WWII warm anomaly . These newly recovered datasets show how wartime created changes in observation practices, including taking more of them during the day rather than at night to avoid being detected by enemy ships. Due to this shift in when the measurements were taken, the team believes that collecting weather data only during daylight hours may have led to the slightly warmer temperatures recorded during the war. Future studies with this newly digitized data will help resolve if the weather truly was warmer during 1941 to 1945 and fill in gaps that will help scientists better understand how the global climate has evolved since the 1940s. Disruptions to trade routes in World War II led to a significant reduction in marine weather observations, University of Reading meteorological research scientist and study co-author Praveen Teleti said in a statement . Until recently, records from that time were still only available in classified paper documents. The scanning and rescuing of this data provides a window into the past, allowing us to understand how the world's climate was behaving during a time of tremendous upheaval. In the study , the team used recovered logbooks from 19 different vessels, including battleships, aircraft carriers, destroyers, and cruisers. Many of these ships were present during the attack in December 1941 that killed 2,404 US military servicemembers and civilians, along with 64 Japanese servicemembers. All of the ships in this study saw some combat in the Pacific at some point during the war. The USS Pennsylvania remained in service after being hit during the attack, when one bomb fell on the battleship killing nine servicemembers. The USS Tennessee was bombed twice in December 1941, killing five servicemembers. The 32,300-ton battleship returned to service in February 1942. [Related: Severe droughts are bringing archaeological wonders and historic horrors to the surface .] Additionally, over 4,000 volunteers transcribed more than 29,000 logbook images from the fleet stationed in Hawaii from 1941 through 1945 to generate the dataset. There are two sets of people we need to thank for making this mission a success. We are very grateful to the global team of citizen scientists for transcribing these observations and creating a huge dataset that includes millions of entries about air and sea surface temperatures, atmospheric pressure, wind speed, and wind direction, said Teleti. The greatest respect must go to the brave servicemen who recorded this data. War was all around them, but they still did their jobs with such professionalism. It is thanks to their dedication and determination that we have these observations 80 years on. Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) said former President Trump has always been about projection in response to Trump blaming her for the Jan. 6 attack in his interview with Meet the Press Sunday. He knows hes responsible for that, so he projects it onto others, Pelosi said during an interview on The Sunday Show with Jonathan Capehart on MSNBC. The assault on the Capitol building, the assault on the Constitution, the assault on our democracy, shame on him; However, he always projects. The former House Speaker denounced Trumps assertions that she turned down soldiers on the day of the attack. [Sen.] Chuck Schumer [D-N.Y.] and I begged him to send the troops again and again, Pelosi said. These Trumpites were attacking the Capitol, fighting the police, threatening my life and the life of the vice president there is a sickness here, and there has to be an intervention. Trump rules out seeking a third White House term if he wins reelection Pelosi said one of the reasons shes running for another term in the House is because of what she feels is at stake in the upcoming presidential election. that intervention has to be the election, which we have to win, and thats one of the reasons why I am running again, to fight for our democracy, which is at stake if he is on the ballot. Pelosi said just because she is no longer the Speaker of the House or the leader of her caucus that she is not ready to walk away. I cant say now that the glory days arent there, Im leaving, Pelosi said. There is no honor that my members could have given me, whether it was Speaker, leader or whip, that matches the thrill I get when I go onto the floor and say I speak for the people of San Francisco.' For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Former Vice President Mike Pence warned against growing favor in the Republican Party for American isolationism, criticizing former President Trump and other GOP presidential candidates in a speech Monday. Pence labeled Trump and other Republicans as advocating a dangerous form of isolationism that amounted to appeasement. Some Republican candidates, my former running mate included, are abandoning the traditional conservative positions on foreign policy and embracing a new and dangerous form of isolationism, the former vice president said, presenting his foreign policy platform at the Hudson Institute in Washington. Pences criticism against his opponents followed a speech he gave earlier this month urging Republicans to remain true to traditional conservative principles rather than follow Trumps populism. But the former vice presidents speech also spoke to the specific issue facing the GOP, which is increasingly fractured over American support for Ukraine to push back against Russian aggression. While a minority of House Republicans are outspoken against any American support to Ukraine, both military and financial, they are part of a larger group that is threatening a government shutdown aimed at reining in federal spending and that cuts out assistance for Kyiv. Trump, as the leading GOP presidential candidate, has expressed skepticism about continued American support for Ukraine and said he would negotiate directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin, but he has provided few details on what he would say to the Russian leader. Pence took aim at these Republicans as appeasers and said allowing them to pull support for Ukraine would allow Putin to overrun the country and drag NATO into war. If Im president of the United States, we will give the people of Ukraine the resources they need to defeat and repel the Russian invasion and reclaim their sovereignty, Pence said in his speech. Yet Pence maintained his position that an invitation for Ukraine to join NATO should not come until the countrys borders are fully restored, something that outgoing chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Mark Milley, has warned is a very high bar. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and eastern European NATO members have agitated for Ukraine to join the alliance as soon as possible as the only guarantee for its future security. When I met with President Zelensky, I think thats something they understand, that is something that ought to wait until the Russian invasion is expelled, Pence told The Hill after his speech. I think we need to keep giving Ukraine the weapons they need to expel the Russian invasion, and then after that, once peace is secured, Id strongly support welcoming them. The former vice president, in his speech, argued that holding back U.S. support for Ukraine would embolden China, which he labeled the greater challenge, and further arguing against voices promoting an isolationist America. You can either be tough on China, or you can be an isolationist but you cannot be both, he said in his speech. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Pensacola Police Department is investigating after a 3-year-old child shot himself Sunday after finding a loaded gun. At a Scenic Highway home, the child found the loaded gun somewhere in the house and accidentally discharged the weapon into his arm. "Someway or another the child was able to obtain the weapon and shoot himself," PPD spokesperson Mike Wood told the News Journal. "We are looking into to see where the weapon was stored and if there are any charges we need to place on any adults at the home." Child shooting death: ECSO: 3-year-old Pensacola child shot Saturday by her father has died The child was treated at a local hospital with a wound that was not life-threatening, according to Wood. Wood says the incident remains under investigation. No further information has been released. This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Pensacola toddler shoots himself at Scenic Highway residence Rep. Daniel Perez, a Miami Republican, was designated by fellow GOP members as speaker of the House following next year's elections in a ceremony Monday at the Florida Capitol. TALLAHASSEE Hinting that hed like to see the Legislature exert more influence over policy even as Gov. Ron DeSantis commands state government, Miami Republican Rep. Daniel Perez was designated the next Florida House speaker. Perez, 36, was selected Monday by House Republicans to begin a two-year term following next falls elections if the party continues to control the chamber. With Republicans holding supermajorities in both the House and Senate, Perezs elevation looks likely. But Perez sounded some cautionary notes about the political balance thats been in place with DeSantis seeming to call the shots over the past five years for a mostly compliant Legislature. DeSantis now is running a struggling campaign for the Republican presidential nomination. Legislative power should be the first branch of government, Perez, a lawyer, told House members in remarks following his selection, drawing applause. Perez also seemed to raise questions about how at least some of the culture war policies enacted over the past couple of years have divided the state. The problem with wielding the power of government like a hammer is that people start looking like nails, Perez said. DeSantis drove Legislature to right A presidential prelude playbook: Why DeSantis is driving Florida hard right How Florida turned How Florida turned red: Changing population, weak opposition, aggressive Gov. Ron DeSantis Prez ads to drop: Fla no longer toss-up Presidential campaign ads to slump in Florida, with state seen as 'no contest' But following his speech in the Capitols House chamber, Perez downplayed any differences with DeSantis, who called for measures endorsed by the Legislature, including parental rights, health care and voting laws which have alienated many LGBTQ and Black Floridians. Its not a message to the governor. The governor is a dear friend, Perez told reporters. Part of the reason the state of Florida is the state of Florida is the governor. Granted, the Legislature, in my opinion, is the most important part for the success of the state of Florida. But the state cant work alone. House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell of Tampa said she was encouraged by Perezs comments about working toward common ground. We have to wait and see, Driskell said, adding its often difficult for leaders to operationalize, their sweeping visions. House Speaker Paul Renner, R-Palm Coast, and Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples, will continue to preside until the 2024 elections. Perez was first elected during a special election in 2017. He'd become the third Cuban-American Floridian to serve as House speaker. Perez is poised to share leadership duties with Sen. Ben Albritton, a Wauchula Republican tapped for the Senate presidency next year. Noting the urban, rural contrast that looks likely to top the Legislature next year, Perez said it was proof, opposites attract. Perez said its clear the Legislature has more work to do to improve the states property insurance market, plagued by insurers leaving Florida and skyrocketing rates. He said its the primary issue he hears about from voters when he tours his Westchester neighborhood in Miami. I think that over the next year, maybe even 10 months, well either see the increases get smaller, or some sort of stability, Perez said. But are we done with property insurance? Absolutely not, he added. Perez also has talked of trying to eliminate the states lengthy waiting list for services for people with developmental disabilities. Perezs younger brother, Brian, has such disabilities and the lawmaker said he is inspired to work toward improving the states system of care. My brothers condition and my parents struggle to help him have also taught me what really matters in life, Perez told the House. The patience I learned from being with my brother has made me impatient in so many other areas. John Kennedy is a reporter in the USA TODAY Networks Florida Capital Bureau. He can be reached at jkennedy2@gannett.com, or on Twitter at @JKennedyReport. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Incoming Florida House speaker draws some distance with DeSantis A 29-year-old man was arrested early Monday morning in the killing of a Los Angeles County sheriffs deputy who was gunned down over the weekend in what authorities believed to be a targeted ambush. The suspect, identified as Kevin Salazar, barricaded himself in his Palmdale home for hours before finally surrendering, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna said during a press conference Monday. The arrest came just 36 hours after 30-year-old Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer was fatally shot while he sat in his patrol car at an intersection in Palmdale. We are extremely confident we have the right person in custody, Sheriff Luna said, adding that the investigation is still ongoing and urged the community to keep sending in tips. Clinkunbroomer was on duty Saturday night and sitting in his patrol car at an intersection in Palmdale, California, when he was ambushed, LA Sheriff Robert Luna said. The deputy was found unconscious by a good samaritan around 6pm. Without warning, he was murdered while serving our community, an emotional Luna said at a Sunday news conference. He ambushed and killed murdered one of our deputies, Mr Luna said, describing the suspect as a public safety threat. LASD deputy who was shot and killed in what appears to be a targeted ambush (LASD / Facebook) Sheriff Luna said authorities have not yet determined a motive for the killing. He described the situation as fluid and said there could be more arrests but that he believes the suspect is the person who killed the deputy. Our deputy was in uniform in a marked black-and-white police vehicle right in front of the station, Luna said. Why did he do this? I have no idea. Was he targeted? Im assuming he was but ... our intent is to find out. Hundreds attended a vigil outside the Palmdale sheriffs station Sunday for the third-generation law-enforcement officer who had got engaged just four days before he was shot and killed. He was just starting his life, the sheriff said. The sheriff also released a statement on Facebook, writing that the eight-year veteran of the LASD was senselessly murdered tonight. From everything I know about Ryan, people absolutely loved and adored him. He wasnt just one of our Deputy Sheriffs. He was a third generation deputy. His father and grandfather served with us, the statement read. Service was running through his veins. He embodied the values of bravery, selflessness and was committed to justice. Our deputy was a devoted family member and a cherished community member. He was cowardly shot while working tirelessly to serve our community this evening, the sheriff added. A statement from Clinkunbroomers family was read by the sheriff on Monday, saying he was dedicated, hardworking and proud to serve alongside his colleagues. Ryan made the ultimate sacrifice in doing so, the statement said. Ryan was recently engaged to the love of his life. As our firstborn son, Ryan will be greatly missed by his family, friends and the sheriffs department as a whole. A 29-year-old man was arrested early Monday in the killing of a Los Angeles County sheriff's deputy who was shot in the head near the Palmdale station late Saturday, officials said Monday morning. After deputies released information Sunday about a "vehicle of interest" in the slaying of Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer, Sheriff Robert Luna said community members came forward with information that helped investigators identify Kevin Cataneo Salazar as the suspect. That led deputies to his home on the east side of Palmdale, where he was arrested early Monday. Thirty-six hours after the murder of our deputy, the men and women of our department arrested [the suspect] early this morning, Luna said Monday at a press conference. "We believe we have the murderer of our deputy in custody." Investigators say there are no other suspects involved. Special enforcement, or SWAT, deputies took Cataneo Salazar into custody after an hours-long standoff on Barrinson Street, during which Cataneo Salazar barricaded himself in his family's home. Eventually they deployed chemical agents and the suspect ultimately surrendered," Luna said. Deputies recovered numerous firearms at the location as well as the Toyota Corolla that was linked to the brazen killing, Luna said. The vehicle was captured on surveillance video pulling up beside Clinkunbroomer's marked sheriff's vehicle Saturday before driving away, moments before the deputy was found fatally shot in the head. Julio Cruz was visiting his mom in the Palmdale neighborhood where Cataneo Salazar was detained. He said he heard law enforcement activity starting around 1 a.m. Monday, and then, about an hour later, he heard officers shoot out the windows of the two-story house. The suspect finally came out around 5 a.m, Cruz said. He also heard what sounded like loud bangs and saw smoke coming from the home. "We heard police talking over the bullhorn and they were saying, 'Kevin, come out. Surrender,'" Cruz said. Read more: Suspect in L.A. deputy killing heard voices, had attempted suicide, mother says Cataneo Salazar admitted to killing the deputy, according to multiple law enforcement sources, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the ongoing investigation. He was linked to the case after someone who had been in a road rage incident with Cataneo Salazar came forward and then helped identify him, the sources said. The surveillance video that captured the killing shows Clinkunbroomer steering his patrol cruiser onto Sierra Highway and stopping at a red light outside the Palmdale sheriffs station, part of the high desert community just north of Los Angeles. Clinkunbroomer was in uniform and on duty. Seconds later, a dark gray Toyota Corolla can be seen pulling up behind the marked black-and-white cruiser and pausing, according to the video shared with The Times. The sedan then pulls alongside the drivers side of the cruiser, pauses again, then speeds off. Clinkunbroomers vehicle drifts a foot or two. In those seconds, authorities said, the deputy was shot in the head. A passerby found the deputy unconscious in his vehicle at Avenue Q and Sierra Highway around 6 p.m., officials said. Fellow deputies took him to Antelope Valley Medical Center in Lancaster, where he died as physicians attempted to treat his gunshot wound. Clinkunbroomer was 30. Our deputies go out and serve this community every day, putting their lives on the line," Luna said, visibly choking up as he spoke Monday. "Ryan's family will never see him again." Read more: Ambushed L.A. deputy was newly engaged, looking forward to big things. 'No words' Clinkunbroomer was a third-generation sheriff's deputy who had recently gotten engaged. Dozens of officers and community members gathered at the Palmdale station Monday morning in front of a makeshift memorial. Law enforcement wore black bands over their badges and civilians wore blue ribbons on their shirts and lapels. Our son Ryan was a dedicated and hardworking deputy sheriff who enjoyed working here at the Palmdale station," the deputy's family said in a statement. "He was proud to work along the side of his partners that he considered brothers and sisters as he sacrificed daily to better the community that he served. Ryan made the ultimate sacrifice in doing so." No motive for the killing has been revealed. During his arrest, Cataneo Salazar was described according to a sheriffs call code as suffering from diminished mental capacity, according to law enforcement sources. Marle Salazar, the 29-year-old's mother, said her son was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia about five years ago, which has been an ongoing battle. She said she's had to call law enforcement at least twice when he's become aggressive toward himself, hearing voices after not taking his medication. But she said Cataneo Salazar had never hurt anyone. She said she was unaware that her son owned a gun. Salazar said she and her family were caught off guard when law enforcement raided their Palmdale home. My son is mentally ill, and if he did something, he wasnt in his full mental capacity, she said in an interview with The Times in Spanish. Theyre only saying that he was the one that shot the deputy, but nobody is saying he has a record for needing mental help. It wasn't immediately clear if investigators believe his mental illness was a factor in the shooting. But Luna said Monday the suspect's mental health doesn't change the tragedy of losing a deputy or loved one. "If I had to go to your family and tell them that you were not coming home and you were just murdered, [it] doesn't matter what the person was thinking or their condition," Luna said. Read more: Mystery surrounds ambush killing of L.A. County sheriff's deputy: 'Somebody knows something' Clinkunbroomer joined the department eight years ago and had been based at the Palmdale station since 2018. For the last 18 months, he worked as a field training officer, a position that Luna said was for the best of the best. His father served with us. His grandfather served with us, Luna said. He had so much ahead of him. Luna said that four days before his death, the deputy had proposed to his fiancee. The Assn. of Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs called for the person responsible to face the fullest extent of prosecution. Luna said that he spoke with the district attorney's office Monday morning and was assured that "they will aggressively pursue this case. "Ryans death is a blow to our law enforcement family, many of whom knew and loved both Ryan and his family," the association said in a statement. The association's C.A.R.E.S. Foundation will be giving all donations for the next 30 days to Clinkunbroomers family. Just hours before his arrest, law enforcement sources told The Times that Cataneo Salazar attended the Sunday vigil event for Clinkunbroomer at the Palmdale station. Luna said Monday he could not confirm if the suspect was at the vigil. "I definitely would like to know the same answer to that," Luna said. "That is part of what we'll be asking about. There maybe is a chance he was here. I cannot verify that." He also could not confirm if the suspect legally purchased a firearm. He said those are all questions under investigation. "How did he get his hands on them? Were they registered to somebody? Where'd they come from?" Luna said. Our investigators are still actively working this case. While investigators are confident they have the right suspect, he asked that residents continue to come forward with any potentially relevant information. The entire Antelope Valley community assistance played an instrumental role in gleaning information leading to the identification of the suspect. And again, we're extremely grateful, Luna said. Maria Marta Naranjo volunteered at the station during the Sunday vigil and returned Monday to hear news about the arrest. "These feelings move us as a community to help and pray," she said. "To pray for his family, his girlfriend, the whole community, the sheriff and the whole station." Palmdale resident John Vencel approached a uniformed deputy with a bouquet of red flowers Monday morning, but was directed to the growing memorial outside the station. After he placed them down, he made the sign of the cross. "I was going to come last night but I was just so angry," Vencel said. "For someone to do that, pull up and shoot someone without any type of recognition... it's so cowardly." 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. (Reuters) -Pfizer expects 24% of the U.S. population, or about 82 million people, to receive COVID-19 shots this year, CFO David Denton said at a conference on Monday, reiterating the vaccine maker's estimates from earlier this year. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has authorized updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and its partner BioNTech, as well as from Moderna, as the country prepares to start a fall vaccination campaign. A third vaccine from Novavax is also under review. During the last re-vaccination campaign, when most Americans had either already had the COVID virus or been previously vaccinated, only around 56.5 million people got the updated booster shots, according to federal data. But last week, a Reuters/Ipos poll showed that about half of Americans are interested in getting an updated COVID vaccine. Rival Moderna has also said it expects U.S. demand for the shots to reach 50 million to 100 million doses in the fall season. Demand for COVID vaccines has dropped sharply since 2021, when they first became available. Pfizer had said in August it will launch a cost-cutting program if its COVID vaccine and antiviral treatment keep underperforming expectations in the coming months due to plunging demand. At the J.P.Morgan U.S. All Stars Conference, Denton said Pfizer will provide more details on its cost-cutting measures in the second half of the year. "We want to make sure that we're investing appropriately based on our R&D pipeline and the investments that we're making and bets that we made... are aligned to the revenue performance of the company long term," said Denton. (Reporting by Bhanvi Satija, Manas Mishra and Mariam Sunny in Bengaluru; Editing by Krishna Chandra Eluri and Pooja Desai) Photos have emerged of the damage caused to the Russian submarine Rostov-on-Don, which was hit in an attack on the night of 13 September. Source: Oryx; Conflict Intelligence Team Details: The images depict large holes in the submarine's bow and the hull's centre. The news outlet Defense Express noted that previously, only satellite images of the occupied Sevastopol waters taken after the 13 September attack were publicly available. Based on the pictures, it was possible to assume that the Rostov-on-Don submarine was damaged in the bow, and the nature of the damage means that it will take many years to repair and cost hundreds of millions of dollars. Update: The Conflict Intelligence Team (CIT), which published the images, notes that the submarine was hit twice. The first of them is located on top in the bow of the submarine, which was previously reported by experts on the basis of satellite images. The second hit was on the starboard side of the boat in the area behind the wheelhouse. Unlike the first, it was impossible to detect on satellite imagery. Quote from CIT: "Norwegian independent naval analyst Thor Are Iversen, whom we provided these photos with, believes that both hits penetrated the submarine's strong hull. As a result, the torpedo and accommodation compartments were damaged, as well as possibly the auxiliary rooms behind the latter and the batteries. It is unclear from the pictures from the outside how much the other compartments were burned out; it depends on whether the hatches between the compartments were closed. In the expert's opinion, damage of this degree will probably take the submarine out of the active fleet until the end of the war." More details: At the same time, its theoretically possible repair will require the submarine to be transported to the Admiralty Shipyards in St. Petersburg. CIT's source reports, repairs of this scale are unprofitable, and it would be easier to build a new boat of the same class. Background: On the night of 13 September, the Russian proxy occupying "authorities" of Sevastopol reported a fire at a shipyard in the Kilen-Balka area, and the Russian Ministry of Defence claimed an attack with missiles and uncrewed vessels. OSINT researchers reported that two vessels were damaged at a shipyard in occupied Sevastopol: a Ropucha-class large landing ship and a Kilo-class submarine. The Russian Telegram channel Baza said the attack damaged the large landing ship Minsk and the diesel-electric submarine Rostov-on-Don, which was launched only in 2014 and carries Kalibr cruise missiles used by Russia to attack Ukrainian cities. UK Defence Intelligence reported that the Rostov-on-Don submarine and the Minsk landing ship had been critically damaged in the Ukrainian strike. Analysts believe any effort to bring the submarine back into service will likely take many years and cost hundreds of millions of dollars. On the afternoon of 13 September, Lieutenant General Mykola Oleshchuk, Commander of the Ukrainian Air Force, thanked Ukrainian pilots for their efficient work in temporarily occupied Sevastopol. Special Operations Forces informed that attacks on the Russian submarine Rostov-on-Don and the landing ship Minsk on the night of 13 September were carried out by the Special Operations Forces of the Armed Forces of 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! An F-35 Lightning II doing maneuvers to the Eglin Air Force Base runway. US Air Force photo/Samuel King Jr. A pilot ejected from his F-35B Lightning II jet after a "mishap" during a Sunday training flight. While the pilot was unharmed, the jet was lost and has not yet been recovered by officials. The F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter program is the DOD's most expensive at $1.7 trillion. An expensive F-35 jet has been lost somewhere in South Carolina following a training mishap. A Marine Corps pilot was flying one of the country's most expensive fighters near Joint Base Charleston on Sunday afternoon when an unknown problem occurred, forcing the pilot to abandon the aircraft and eject. "We can confirm a mishap involving an F-35B Lightning II jet from Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT) 501 with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing," a United States Marine Corps spokesperson told Insider. "The pilot safely ejected from the aircraft. We are currently still gathering more information and assessing the situation. The mishap will be under investigation." The F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter program is the Department of Defense's most expensive weapon-system program, according to the US Government Accountability Office. Officials estimated it would cost American taxpayers about $1.7 trillion to "buy, operate, and sustain the aircraft and systems over its lifetime," the GAO reported. A 2020 report from the Project On Government Oversight found a single Marine Corps F-35B cost $135.8 million. The pilot, after ejecting, was found in a residential neighborhood near South Kenwood Drive in North Charleston and transported to a local medical center in stable condition, the local news outlet WCBD reported. His wingman safely landed in a separate aircraft, the outlet reported. Representatives for Joint Base Charleston did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Insider but posted on X that officials were working with Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort to locate the lost F-35. Details regarding the training exercise that prompted the mishap are under investigation. A former test pilot said F-35 jets Lockheed Martin's fifth-generation stealth aircraft were intended for air superiority and strike missions and were "designed precisely" to fight and win in the kind of war happening in Ukraine, Insider previously reported. The US Air Force deployed F-35s to NATO's front line to patrol for Russian missiles following the invasion of Ukraine. While each aircraft has various weaponry configurations, the jets have a powerful electronic intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance suite. In a configuration known as "beast mode," which Insider previously reported sacrifices stealth for firepower, F-35s can be equipped with laser-guided bombs on their wings and an AIM-9 air-to-air heat-seeking missile. Read the original article on Business Insider LAS VEGAS (KLAS) The Plaza Hotel and Casino is hosting the Las Vegas Days Rodeo at the CORE Arena, its outdoor equestrian center, in November. Sponsored in partnership with the Commission for the Las Vegas Centennial, the Las Vegas Day Rodeos mission is to bring the community together to celebrate the spirit of Old Las Vegas, including those who shaped the citys history and those who are working to preserve the western lifestyle. The event celebrates the history of Las Vegas with the rodeo as well as historical exhibits, a Whiskerino contest, which is a beard and mustache competition, and Mutton Busting, a sheep riding competition open to children ages 4 to 10 who weigh less than 60 pounds. The Las Vegas Days Rodeo will also have bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, breakaway, and bareback riding, with prize purses totaling $45,000. Adjacent to the rodeo arena, the Plaza will have a Then & Now display of photos of Downtown Las Vegas along with western-themed exhibits in a tented educational pavilion open to the public. The event starts at 6 p.m. Nov. 10 and 11, with gates opening at 5 p.m. Admission is free but RSVP is recommended online. More details about the Las Vegas Days rodeo, associated events, and sponsorships is available on the Plaza Hotel and Casino website. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. The Polish and Slovak authorities say they will not lift unilateral restrictions on agricultural imports from Ukraine after it initiated a challenge within the World Trade Organisation (WTO). Source: This was reported by European Pravda Details: In his comment to PAP news agency, Polish government spokesman Piotr Muller said Warsaw considers its ban on imports of Ukrainian grain justified. Quote: "We will not allow Poland's agricultural market to be disrupted. We will not change our opinion on this issue and well take steps to protect the interests of Polish farmers," he added. Jozef Bires, Slovak Minister of Agriculture, said Bratislava is ready to reconsider the ban if Kyiv's proposals prove effective in controlling exports to his state after testing. "We will not change our position unless there are guarantees. We know how to present our causes and concerns to the WTO. I do not know whether the Ukrainian side will take into account the testing that we demand or will file a lawsuit," the Slovak portal SME quotes Bires. According to media reports, Kyivs proposal entails the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine independently deciding on granting permits for grain exports to the EU, including five eastern member states, even if they oppose such permits. The European Commission has announced it will not extend restrictions on imports of agricultural products from Ukraine after 15 September, but Kyiv has agreed to take measures to limit imports from its side. Despite this, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia decided to introduce unilateral restrictions. In response, Ukraine began the procedure for challenging these restrictions within the World Trade Organisation. 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! People listen to Joseph Borge speak during a rally denouncing antisemitic violence in May 2021 in Cedarhurst, New York (Getty Images) A string of bomb threats was reported against several places of worship in New York state over the weekend. One of the threats was reported at Mountain Rise United Church of Christ in Perinton on Sunday. The Monroe County Sheriffs Office evacuated the church which also hosts Jewish services mid-service after receiving information about the threats. I was here this morning for the service, church member Bill Holliday told local news station WHAM-TV. At 11 oclock, we were told to evacuate the church. I saw four or five sheriffs cars. The sheriffs office used canine units to search the building and ultimately determined that no explosives were inside. In this day in age, you just never know what its going to end up being, how serious, and for that time, I feel like we made the appropriate decision to get out of the church and I was really glad to see the response of the local sheriff, Mr Holliday also told WHAMT-TV. Bomb threats brought disruption to Jewish temples across the state amid celebrations of the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, over the weekend. Also on Sunday, authorities in the city of Geneva received reports of bomb threats at Temple Beth-El. Geneva police searched the building and found no bombs. The NYPD investigated a potential bomb threat at a synagogue in Brooklyn over the weekend, The Messenger reports. A Park Slope resident said that police had urged neighbours to shelter in place while they searched the building. Video shared online by other Twitter users showed heavy police presence at the scene. Bomb threat at the synagogue down the street from us. Police told us to shelter in place. Im sure it will all be ok, but what a way to start the year, X user Terri Gerstein tweeted. The NYPDs 78th Precinct said in a statement that its investigation into the reports had concluded and the area was no longer blocked off. In Nassau County, service at Temple Beth Am of Merrick and Bellmore was delayed after members of the congregation received bomb threats over email. Local police brought bomb-sniffing dogs to the scene in the early morning hours of Saturday. The threat has been deemed not credible at this time, the Nassau County Police Department said, according to News 12. NCPD will keep extra cars in the area throughout the day out of an abundance of caution. Last week, the Anti-Defamation League told The Jewish Telegraphic Agency that at least 49 synagogues had to be evacuated in the last two months after receiving hoax bomb threats. Every weekend this network of swatters continues to identify targets and are calling in fake bomb threats, the ADLs Center on Extremism Vice President Oren Segal told the outlet. So that number is increasing and will potentially keep increasing. The Salisbury Police Department is investigating a homicide that occurred Sunday morning. Just after 9 a.m., police said they responded to Park Avenue after receiving reports about a dead person. At the scene, 35-year-old Nohemy Hernandez-Laines was found with injuries consistent with an assault. Laines died from her injuries, according to police. ALSO READ: Homicide investigation underway in Shelby, police say The Salisbury Police Department said it is actively investigating this incident. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Sgt. Hill at 704-638-5333. VIDEO: Homicide investigation underway in Shelby, police say A former Colorado police officer who locked a handcuffed suspect in a car that was then hit by a freight train has avoided prison. Jordan Steinke, 29, was sentenced on Friday by Weld County District Court Judge Timothy Kerns, who found her guilty in July of reckless endangerment and assault for the crash near Platteville, Wisconsin. The former Fort Lupton police officer was acquitted of criminal attempt to commit manslaughter. According to the Denver Post, Judge Kerns said he had planned to send Steinke to jail but he changed his mind after both prosecutors and defence attorneys sought a probationary sentence. He ordered her instead to perform 100 hours of community service. She was also placed on supervised probation for 30 months. Police abandon handcuffed woman in squad car parked on tracks as train approaches. Yareni Rios-Gonzalez, 20, suffered 9 broken ribs, broken arm, broken teeth, head, back and leg injuries, as cops fled. Paid leave for the cop. pic.twitter.com/PKYKd1QBDP Rafael Shimunov (@rafaelshimunov) September 25, 2022 Someone is going to hear this and say, Another officer gets off, Judge Kerns said. Thats not the facts of this case. He warned that if she broke the terms of her probation I will harken back to my original gut response as to how to address sentencing. Steinke, who wept during the hearing, apologised to the victim, Yareni Rios-Gonzalez, who attended virtually. Ms Rios-Gonzalez had been stopped after an alleged road-rage incident involving a gun in September 2022. Steinke took her into custody and locked her in another investigating officers police car, which was parked on railroad tracks. The freight train then crashed into the SUV. Yareni Rios-Gonzalez was trapped in the locked police car - Fort Lupton Police Department/via AP What happened that night has haunted me for 364 days, Steinke said. I remember your cries and your screams. Steinke said she hoped to fulfil some of her community service by giving educational talks to new police officers about the dangers of railroad tracks and the importance of being aware of their surroundings. Ms Rios-Gonzalez, who suffered a lasting brain injury and is in pain, was conflicted about how she wanted Steinke to be punished, attorney Chris Ponce said. She feels sorry for Ms Steinke The conflict that she feels is one where every day she has to feel this pain, Mr Ponce said. And shes had to deal with [doctor] appointments and having her life so radically changed. And feeling upset, very upset about that angry about that but on the other hand, feeling for Ms Steinke and, I think, truly sorry for how she lost her career. Steinke was sacked from the Fort Lupton police department after her conviction. She is expected to lose her Peace Officer Standards and Training certification, her attorney Mallory Revel said, meaning she can never work as a police officer again. During Steinkes trial, her defence attorneys said she did not know that the police vehicle had been parked on the tracks. Pablo Vazquez, the other former officer involved in the incident, is due to go on trial later in 2023 on charges of reckless endangerment and traffic-related offences. Ms Rios-Gonzalez has also filed a lawsuit against the police agencies involved. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer. Police are asking the public for help finding a missing 32-year-old woman last seen Sunday night in Kansas City. LaKesha Gooley was last seen around 10:45 p.m. in the area of 83rd and Main streets wearing an unknown color tank top and shorts and pink or yellow Crocs. She is 5 feet tall and weighs around 120 pounds. Gooley has brown hair and brown eyes. Police said Gooley has medical conditions that require care. Anyone who finds her or knows of her whereabouts should immediately call 911 or the missing persons unit at 816-234-5043. Polish government considered retreat of troops across the Vistula River in event of Russian invasion in 2011 Polish troops might have retreated across the Vistula River, giving up control of around 40% of Polish territory if Russia had invaded the country in 2011, declassified war plans show. Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak revealed the declassified documents outlining the country's 2011 defense strategy, in which the scenario of a retreat of Polish troops across the Vistula River was considered, in a post by the ruling Law and Justice party on the social network formerly known as Twitter. "The plan for the use of the armed forces, approved by the then Minister of Defense (Bogdan) Klich, foresaw that the country's independent defense would last no more than two weeks, and in seven days the enemywould reach the right bank of the Vistula," Blaszczak said. The documents clearly show that Lublin, Rzeszow, and Lomza could havebecome Polish Buchas, Blaszczak added, naming one of the towns on theoutskirts of Kyiv where the Russian army committed mass murders of Ukrainian civilians during its brief occupation of parts of Kyiv Oblast. The official showed the first pages of the document, which indicate that in 2013 they were removed from the "secret" classification, which may indicate there has been a change in Polands defense strategy. Read also: Polish PM announces plan to construct physical barrier along entire border with Russias Kaliningrad exclave The statement was made in the run-up to the parliamentary election, where the main opponent of the current government is the opposition party, during whose term the defense strategy document was adopted. The document states that in 2011, NATO forces would have needed up to two weeks to deploy a military contingent in Poland and begin to resist the Russian invasion. All this time, the Polish army had to hold back the enemy on its own. Read also: NATO in 2024 to conduct biggest military exercise since Cold War in Germany, Poland, Baltics Ukrainian news outlet Militarnyi notes the importance of taking into account the time period and circumstances surrounding the adoption of this defense strategy. Experts note that in 2011, the Polish army was in a very difficult situation and had low combat capability. Polish military strategists were planning based on the resources available to them. Read also: Russia has had Poland in its sights for a while, says Polish intelligence Poland has been supporting Ukraine since the first days of Russia's full-scale invasion. Against the backdrop of potential threats, and noting Russian aggression against Ukraine, Warsaw also began to pay special attention to training and equipping the Polish army. 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 An Arizona state senator's GoFundMe campaign has exceeded its $23,000 goal after an airplane crash paralyzed his father and killed an Ohio man. Politicians, lobbyists and activists contributed nearly half the total, with donations ranging from $25 to $5,000. Lawmakers from both parties donated, as did several registered lobbyists at the state capitol, blurring the line between charitable donations and the appearance of influence peddling. "I was grateful for any help that came in," said state Sen. J.D. Mesnard, R-Chandler, who started the online fund on Aug. 21. "I didn't screen that help." Mesnard's father is Florida charter plane business owner and former U.S. Air Force pilot Dan Mesnard. He was flying his kit-built Velocity Twin airplane out of Kaolin Field Airport in Sandersville, Georgia, on Aug. 1 when the plane suffered what J.D. Mesnard later described as an engine failure and plunged into a boggy field. A witness reported that the plane's engine "seemed to change pitch" and the aircraft "banked right" before plummeting, according to an initial report by the National Transportation Safety Board. The crash left Dan Mesnard, 68, with paraplegia. His friend and passenger, Ohio resident Tim Fiser, 69, died from his injuries two days later. The Mesnard family needed to raise funds for the unexpected cost of extracting the airplane wreckage from the bog to allow the National Transportation Safety Board to perform a more thorough inspection that could prove the crash was caused by something other than pilot error, J.D. Mesnard explained. He tweeted on X about the GoFundMe campaign on Aug. 28. It's now closed and Mesnard said he's transferred the $25,205 it collected to his father, who has declined any media interviews. "I'm not sure what I could have done differently," he said. "I didn't benefit from it in any sort of way." The GoFundMe donor list shows that the longtime legislator and former house speaker has many friends on both sides of the political aisle. Seven Republican and six Democratic current and former lawmakers gave a total of $2,150 to the fund a diverse group that includes both Sens. Wendy Rogers, R-Flagstaff, and Lela Alston, D-Phoenix. Two newly appointed senators, Shawnna Bolick, R-Phoenix, and Flavio Bravo , D-Phoenix, chipped in. "I've never even had a conversation with Sen. Mesnard," Bravo said, who donated $50 after seeing Mesnard's social media post. "I felt it was to show camaraderie." After sitting in for another senator this month on the contentious Committee for Director Nominations, Bravo added, "We need more of that." Arizona politics: Gallego could face Sinema, Lake in historic Ariz. Senate race. What role will Trump play? Lobbyists and activists pitched in The GoFundMe donor list includes two dozen registered Arizona lobbyists who together raised $3,950 for the fund. Chelsea McGuire, a lobbyist and assistant director of external affairs for the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona, which works closely with the Arizona Legislature to improve water infrastructure, acknowledged that she doesn't know Mesnard "all that well," but felt she could help after seeing his post on X. She gave $50. "We really are a capitol community," she said, adding that "it's always hard when you mix politics with anything." The list also includes notable names in local politics like Democratic U.S. Rep. Greg Stanton, former Tempe City Councilmember Lauren Kuby, conservative Free Enterprise Club President Scot Mussi, lobbyist and policymaker Steve Twist, 2020 "alternate" elector for Trump Nancy Cottle and state GOP Party Chair Jeff DeWit. Randy Kendrick, a self-described "activist donor" who has given millions of dollars to conservative causes and candidates in recent years, provided the top donation of $5,000. She contributed $5,300 to Mesnard's reelection campaign in 2022 he was one of numerous Republican candidates she helped out. Her GoFundMe donation had "nothing to do with" her political spending, Kendrick said, adding that she hoped "people could drop their cynicism for a minute." "Somebody sent me the link to the GoFundMe page I just reacted to it because of my life experience," she said, relating how her father was killed in a U.S. Air Force plane crash in 1956, when she was 10. Her mother remarried another Air Force pilot, and Kendrick's first husband was an Air Force pilot, she said. "I've lived this life, so when I hear about a pilot suffering, I just immediately want to help." The donations are legal, but Mesnard "should be aware of the optics of this," said John Pelissero, a senior scholar in government ethics at the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics at Santa Clara University. "It's very easy to infer that there is something expected by the lobbyists donating to this," Pelissero said. "Maybe they have legislation pending in the future that they would expect the senator to support because they stepped up and helped his family in a time of need." 'Long road' ahead for injured pilot Dan Mesnard ran a small airplane charter service on Merritt Island, Florida, and "had some funds, but not like $24,000," Mesnard said. Extraction of the airplane wreckage is expected to take place Monday or Tuesday now that the family can pay for its cost, Mesnard said. Investigators then will examine the parts in a hangar. Mesnard hopes they find evidence that shows his father did not cause the crash and that he made every maneuver possible in the short seconds they had to try to save himself and Fiser. His father and his friend had been making their way back to Florida after attending an aviation event in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, when the "engine just died" after takeoff at less than 600 feet off the ground, Mesnard said. Struggling to control the plane, Dan Mesnard spotted a clear patch among the trees and guided the plane in for what he hoped would be "the softest possible crash landing." Both men were ejected from the plane. Mesnard's father shattered a vertebrae. He's still recovering in a Georgia physical rehabilitation center from a six-hour surgery. "I've been studying up on spinal cord injuries," said Mesnard, a consultant and college political science instructor. "It's going to be a long road." Reach the reporter at rstern@arizonarepublic.com or 480-276-3237. Follow him on X (formerly Twitter) @raystern. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: AZ senator J.D. Mesnard starts GoFundMe campaign for father Liz Truss , the former prime minister, arrives at the Institute for Government in London this morning - Andy Rain /Shutterstock Liz Truss has questioned if the Governments net zero drive has public support. The former prime minister said the push to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 had been institutionalised before it actually has democratic consent. Ms Truss urged Rishi Sunak to delay or abandon some of the Governments key net zero measures as she warned against hitting families with additional costs. She said a proposed ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2030 should be pushed back while a drive to phase out gas boilers should be ditched. Ms Truss was challenged over her call to delay net zero measures as she answered questions following a speech at the Institute for Government think tank. She said: I think there is a wider debate to be had about the cost of implementing the climate change agenda, the way in which it is being done and whether or not there is genuine international agreement on dealing with the issue. I dont think that has been properly fleshed out and debated. I think it has been institutionalised before it actually has democratic consent. You can follow the latest updates below. 04:00 PM BST That is all for today... Thank you for joining me for todays politics live blog. I will be back tomorrow morning. 03:11 PM BST Join the conversation Telegraph readers have been discussing Liz Trusss call for Rishi Sunak to delay or abandon the Governments key net zero pledges (see the post below at 10.31). Conte di Faraglione writes: Fantastic if Truss starts skewering Sunak on the eco pledges that will make us poorer and colder. Shes one of the few Tory MPs not on board with the Tory/Labour Uniparty tendency weve seen of late, where there is no fundamental difference between the two leaders, who both embrace the high tax, low growth philosophy. Deborah Hicks says: In Switzerland, there would be a referendum on such measures. Im not in favour of putting every question separately to the electorate, but something that is so far-reaching with costs to the individual both personally and as a taxpayer so significant that there must be a case for it. If the Government case is so strong, then they will be able to argue it and convince us, wont they? Meanwhile, Mike Machin suggests: So many people forget that the overwhelming majority of the population dont spend their time studying the minutia of right-of-centre politics. All they know is that they want fairness, security and an economy that works. All that moving further to the right achieves is a greater chance of not being re-elected. Join the conversation in the comments section below - just look for the speech bubble icon underneath the first post of the day. 03:06 PM BST Labour call on Rishi Sunak to block Liz Truss honours list A Labour frontbencher has called on Rishi Sunak to block Liz Trusss planned resignation honours list. Jonathan Ashworth, the Shadow Paymaster general, has written to the Prime Minister urging him to stop his predecessors plans to nominate 14 people for honours because of her disastrous mini-budget. The House of Lords is currently vetting her list. You can read the full story here. 02:46 PM BST No10: 'Coordinated strikes' will pose 'huge challenge' to NHS Downing Street warned a strike by NHS doctors in England will pose a huge challenge and disrupt patient care. Consultants will walk out for 48 hours from Tuesday, and will be joined by their junior colleagues on Wednesday. Junior doctors will then continue their strike on Thursday and Friday. The Prime Ministers Official Spokesman said: These coordinated strikes will pose a huge challenge for the NHS and for patients, who will see their care significantly disrupted. 02:29 PM BST Michael Gove praises 'brilliant minister' Dehenna Davison Michael Gove, the levelling Up Secretary, has praised Dehenna Davison after she announced she was stepping down as levelling up minister (see the post below at 12.42). The Cabinet minister tweeted: Really sorry to lose Dehenna from the department - a brilliant minister and kind friend. Wishing her all the very best for the future. She has so much to offer. 01:52 PM BST Reader poll: What should Rishi Sunak do with the Government's net zero pledges? 01:33 PM BST Jacob Young appointed new levelling up minister Downing Street has announced Jacob Young, the Tory MP for Redcar, has replaced Dehenna Davison as levelling up minister following her resignation earlier today (see the post below at 12.42). 01:29 PM BST Sunak did not watch Truss speech Rishi Sunak did not watch Liz Trusss speech on the future of the economy this morning, Downing Street has revealed. Asked if Mr Sunak welcomed Ms Trusss contribution, the Prime Ministers Official Spokesman said: It is not unusual for MPs or former leaders to express their views in speeches The spokesman said he did not think Mr Sunak has had time to watch the speech and when asked what he was doing instead, the spokesman replied: Being prime minister and having meetings. 01:03 PM BST No10 reiterates pragmatic approach on net zero No10 said the Government was taking a pragmatic approach to hitting the 2050 net zero emissions target. Asked if Rishi Sunak agreed with Liz Truss (see the post below at 10.31) that the 2030 ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars should be delayed, the Prime Ministers Official Spokesman said: I have not spoken to the Prime Minister since that speech. I think you heard the Prime Minister talk about this relatively recently when we were on the way to India. But of course the Governments approach to net zero has always been to approach it in a way that is pragmatic and doesnt unfairly add costs to the public. 12:42 PM BST Dehenna Davison stepping down as levelling up minister Dehenna Davison has announced she is stepping down from her role as levelling up minister. The Tory MP for Bishop Auckland said she had taken the decision to quit the Government because of chronic migraines. Serving as Levelling Up Minister has been an immense privilege, but sadly I need to step back. Heres why pic.twitter.com/craTT71yR3 Dehenna Davison MP (@DehennaDavison) September 18, 2023 12:35 PM BST Brexit trade deal should not be re-opened or re-written, says No10 Downing Street said the Brexit trade deal should not be renegotiated following Sir Keir Starmers comments in an interview with the Financial Times in which he said a Labour government would seek to rewrite the pact to deliver closer ties with the EU (see the post below at 08.02). Asked if Rishi Sunak agreed that the deal should be renegotiated in 2025, the Prime Ministers Official Spokesman said: No. We expect the TCA [Trade and Cooperation Agreement] to remain the basis for our relationship with the EU and are focused on maximising opportunities it presents us with. It is the worlds largest zero tariffs, zero quotas deal. It is the first time the EU has ever agreed to such access in a free trade agreement. Asked if Mr Sunak believed the deal could be improved, the spokesman said: We are focused, as I say, on taking the TCA and using our Brexit freedoms to the benefit of the public already. We are not looking to relitigate the past or reopen it in any way, shape or form. Obviously there is a set statutory review period but beyond that we are very much focused on maximising the opportunities it presents for the public. 12:20 PM BST PM skipping UN General Assembly because of 'busy diary' The United Nations General Assembly is taking place this week. It is big fixture in the diplomatic year and the UK prime minister does normally attend to deliver a speech. But Rishi Sunak is not going and is sending Oliver Dowden, the Deputy Prime Minister, instead. Downing Street today blamed the PMs absence on his busy diary. The Prime Ministers Official Spokesman said: He met with world leaders at the G20 just a few days previously and so in light of his busy diary [he] decided the [Deputy Prime Minister] would attend instead. 12:07 PM BST Lib Dems claim Truss is 'out of touch' The Liberal Democrats claimed Liz Truss was out of touch as the party responded to the former prime ministers speech this morning. Sarah Olney, the Lib Dems Treasury spokeswoman, said: Liz Truss refusal to apologise to the families who have seen their finances ruined by her botched budget shows just how out of touch she is. She added: The British public will never forget this shambolic Conservative government for trashing the economy and sending mortgage rates spiralling. 11:37 AM BST Truss: 'I still believe in my vision for Britain' Almost a year on, I still believe in my vision for Britain. We must be bold if we want to make Britain grow again. #IfGTruss pic.twitter.com/FpW366IbJN Liz Truss (@trussliz) September 18, 2023 11:27 AM BST Liz Truss criticises Mark Carney after 'Argentina-on-the-Channel' jibe Liz Truss lashed out at former Bank of England governor Mark Carney after he said that instead of delivering Singapore-on-Thames post-Brexit, she delivered Argentina-on-the-Channel. In response, the former prime minister told an audience at the Institute for Government think tank that Mr Carney was defensive about his role in the 25-year economic consensus that has led to low growth across the western world. She said: Im afraid theres quite a lot of finger-pointing going on from people like Mark Carney because they dont want to admit their culpability or the culpability of their central banking associates in this. And I again think, of course politicians should be held accountable and responsible for what we do, but when there are people with significant power, you know, I dont feel that the same questions are necessarily asked about them. 11:23 AM BST Tory poll woes down to failure to deliver change, claims Truss The Conservative Partys struggles in national opinion polls are down to a failure to deliver enough of the change that people voted for at the 2019 general election, Liz Truss claimed. Asked if her speech this morning on the state of the economy and the mini-Budget was helpful for Rishi Sunak as he tries to narrow Labours double digit poll lead over the Tories, Ms Truss said: I am a great believer in actually listening to what people are saying and I go canvassing regularly in my coinstituency, I hear what people are saying on the doorstep and what people are frustrated about in Britain is not the ticker tape on Sky News, what they are frustrated about is costs have gone up and their income hasnt gone up and that has been the case for some time. That is why I believe people voted for change, to change the way things worked in this country and that is why they voted for Boris back in 2019. I think the issue we have got in the polls is we havent done enough to deliver that change. 11:02 AM BST Truss: Net zero drive has been 'institutionalised' before achieving 'democratic consent' The net zero drive has been institutionalised before it has achieved democratic consent, Liz Truss argued this morning. The ex-premier was challenged over her call to delay or abandon some key net zero pledges (see the post below at 10.31) and she said: My view is we should be prioritising the struggle for freedom and democracy and I fear that some of the way we are implementing the climate change agenda and our net zero targets is actually making us less competitive vis-a-vis China who are not following, dont have net zero 2050 etc etc. I think there is a wider debate to be had about the cost of implementing the climate change agenda, the way in which it is being done and whether or not there is genuine international agreement on dealing with the issue. I dont think that has been properly fleshed out and debated. I think it has been institutionalised before it actually has democratic consent. 10:55 AM BST 'I dont think the problem in the NHS is lack of money' Problems in the NHS are not down to a lack of money, Liz Truss argued this morning. Answering questions after her speech at the Institute for Government think tank, the former premier said: I dont think the problem in the NHS is lack of money. I think it is the way the system works. But of course I am not pretending you can build Rome in a day and we would have sorted out the NHS in two years. Obviously that was not possible. But what I had hoped is to be able to set out a long term trajectory. 10:33 AM BST 'In order to grow, we need to change' Concluding her address to the Institute for Government think tank this morning, Liz Truss said politicians must be willing to make unpopular decisions if the UK economy is to grow. The former premier said: There is a growing consensus that we need to grow. But although people will the ends, they dont necessarily will the means. In order to grow, we need to change. That starts with acknowledging we have a problem. It means abandoning the stale economic consensus. It means politicians doing the right thing, even if it is unpopular. This will not be easy but it will be worth doing. With determination to turn things around we can make Britain grow again. Liz Truss delivers an address at the Institute for Government think tank this morning - Leon Neal/Getty Images Europe 10:31 AM BST Truss urges Government to delay key net zero commitments The Government should delay or abandon key net zero commitments, Liz Truss argued this morning. The former prime minister he said: Finally, we should as many other Western countries are already doing delay implementing Net Zero commitments such as the ban on new petrol and diesel vehicles from 2030. Other environmental regulations which are hiking the cost of living like enforcing the replacement of gas and oil boilers should also be abandoned. 10:26 AM BST Liz Truss concedes she was 'in a rush' to make changes at mini-Budget Liz Truss conceded she was in a rush to make changes when she unveiled her mini-Budget last year. Referring to her mini-Budget U-turn, Ms Truss told an event at the Institute for Government this morning: I was effectively forced into a policy reversal under threat of a UK meltdown. Some people say we were in too much of a rush. And it is certainly true that I didnt just try to fatten the pig on market day; I tried to rear the pig, fatten the pig and slaughter the pig on market day. I confess to that. But the reason we were in a rush is because voters had voted for change, they had voted for change in 2016 and they voted for change again in 2019. 10:19 AM BST Economic growth would have been 2pc higher by 2030 under my plans, claims Truss Liz Truss argued that if the policies she set out at the mini-Budget last October had been implemented then economic growth in the UK would have been two per cent higher than otherwise by 2030. She told the Institute for Government think tank: CEBR analysis at the time suggested that if the policies had been kept in place, GDP growth would be two per cent higher than otherwise by 2030, and investment would be up 10 per cent and could have been even stronger. This would have been even greater in the longer term. The 20-year GDP impact is normally three to four times bigger. 10:13 AM BST Treasury and OBR guilty of 'abacus economics', claims former PM Liz Truss said there is currently a fatalistic consensus in the UK that low economic growth is inevitable. The former prime minister took aim at the Treasury and the Office for Budget responsibility, accusing them of abacus economics which is too focused on the short term. 10:09 AM BST Truss: Conservatives allowed economic debate to be 'framed and led by the left' Liz Truss said Conservatives had allowed the economic debate to be framed and led by the left since the 1980s. Speaking at an event organised by the Institute for Government, Ms Truss said: After the successful monetary policy and supply side reforms of the 1980s and the winning of the Cold War by the West, we were all optimistic and upbeat about our future but fundamentally we took our eye off the ball. Free market economists went off to lucrative jobs in the City, allowing academic institutions and think-tanks to be captured by the left. She added: We Conservatives allowed the debate to be framed and led by the left. 10:05 AM BST UK must 'shatter' economic consensus to achieve growth, says Truss Liz Truss is now on her feet at the Institute for Government think tank to deliver a speech on the future of the economy. The former prime minister started her remarks by joking that she was having a rather more relaxing September than I did last year. She said addressing the problem of economic stagnation in the UK was only getting more urgent because Britain was not bringing in as much money as a country as we are spending. She blamed that stagnation on 25 years of a failed economic consensus. She said the UK must shatter that economic consensus. Liz Truss, the former prime minister, arrives at the Institute for Government think tank this morning - Leon Neal /Getty Images Europe 09:45 AM BST Tories claim Labour want to 'take Britain back to square one on Brexit' The Conservative Party has seized on Sir Keir Starmers Brexit comments (see the post below at 08.02), posting the following attack advert on Twitter this morning: What price would Keir Starmer be prepared to pay to the EU for renegotiating our relationship? pic.twitter.com/OQP1k6Oak2 Conservatives (@Conservatives) September 18, 2023 09:35 AM BST Truss to urge Sunak to cut corporation tax and abolish windfall tax Liz Truss will use her speech at the Institute for Government think tank this morning to urge Rishi Sunak to reduce the rate of corporation tax - currently 25 per cent - and to abolish the windfall tax on the excess profits of oil and gas firms. The former prime minister is expected to say: We need to reduce corporation tax back to 19 per cent. We should also refuse to implement the OECD minimum tax agreement, which I have previously labelled a cartel of complacency... We also need to reduce marginal tax rates to make it worthwhile to work at every income level. Further changes like abolishing the tourist tax, abolishing the windfall tax and IR35 need to be made. We need to get a grip on the ballooning welfare and pensions bill. This means slowing the rate of increases to benefits and tougher work requirements. It also means raising the retirement age further. 09:09 AM BST Some Tory MPs are part of anti-growth coalition, Truss to claim Liz Truss will claim this morning that some Tory MPs are part of what she described as the anti-growth coalition. The former prime minister coined the term last October during her speech at the Conservative Partys annual conference. She is expected to argue this morning that her mini-Budget policies did not get implemented because there was a reaction from the political and economic establishment which fed into the markets which were already destabilised. She is expected to say: Supply side economics and a belief that the size of the state needs to be reduced are ideas that no longer command widespread support or understanding. The anti-growth coalition is now a powerful force comprising the economic and political elite, corporatists, parts of the media and even a section of the Conservative parliamentary party. The policies I advocate simply arent fashionable on the London dinner party circuit. Liz Truss, the former prime minister, is pictured delivering a speech in Tokyo, Japan on February 17 this year - Androniki Christodoulou/Reuters 08:47 AM BST Economic consensus must be shattered to deliver growth, Truss to argue The economic consensus must be shattered in order for the UK to break out of its period of stagnation, Liz Truss will argue in a major speech this morning. The former prime minister is expected to tell the Institute for Government think tank: I believe that the reason for the problems we have is the 25 years of economic consensus that have led us to this period of stagnation. And I believe it is vital that we understand that and shatter that economic consensus, if we are to avoid worse problems in the future. Some say this is a crisis of capitalism that free markets are responsible. But thats not borne out by the facts. Quite the opposite is true. The fact is that since the Labour government was elected in 1997, we have moved towards being a more corporatist social democracy in Britain than we were in the 1980s and 1990s. 08:24 AM BST Liz Truss to deliver major economic speech at 10am Liz Truss will deliver a major speech at the Institute for Government think tank this morning (starting at 10am) on the state of the economy. The address is taking place almost a year to the day since Ms Truss unveiled her controversial mini-Budget during her seven week stint in No10. Ms Truss is expected to use the speech to urge Rishi Sunak to cut taxes and to call for the retirement age - currently 66 for men and women - to rise further in the years ahead. She will defend the economic approach she advocated and also claim that UK growth would have been two per cent higher in 2030 if her policies were still in place. 08:08 AM BST Labour leader has 'utter determination' to make Brexit work Sir Keir Starmer said he has an utter determination to make Brexit work as he restated a Labour government would not seek to take the UK back into the European Union. The Labour leader suggested he owed it to his children to improve Britains ties with Brussels. He told the Financial Times: We have to make it work. Thats not a question of going back in. But I refuse to accept that we cant make it work. I think about those future generations when I say that. I say that as a dad. Ive got a 15-year-old boy and a 12-year-old girl. Im not going to let them grow up in a world where all Ive got to say to them about their future is, its going to be worse than it might otherwise have been. Ive got an utter determination to make this work. 08:02 AM BST Starmer: Labour government would seek 'closer' relationship with EU Sir Keir Starmer has vowed to seek a closer trading relationship with the European Union if Labour win power at the next general election. The Labour leader said he would seek to rewrite the existing Brexit deal when it is up for review in 2025. He told the Financial Times during a visit to Montreal: Almost everyone recognises the deal [Boris] Johnson struck is not a good deal its far too thin. As we go into 2025 we will attempt to get a much better deal for the UK. He added: I do think we can have a closer trading relationship as well. Thats subject to further discussion. 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. It didnt take long for Steve Hebbe, chief of the Farmington Police Department, to feel the need to speak up on behalf of the New Mexico Chiefs of Police Association after beginning his second term as the organizations president at the beginning of September. Hebbe said he was disappointed when Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham issued an emergency public health order on Sept. 8 that suspended the right to carry open or concealed firearms in public in Albuquerque. On Sept. 12, Hebbe joined a chorus of other law enforcement officials around the state who criticized the order by issuing a statement on behalf of the association he leads, which he said represents most of the larger police departments in New Mexico. In his statement, which appeared on a Farmington Police Department letterhead but was vetted by the associations executive board, Hebbe writes that he read the governors order with deep concern and dismay, and notes that his organization was not consulted about it or given prior notice that it was being issued. Hebbe also writes that the governors order which was partially blocked by a federal judge on Wednesday likely will be ruled unconstitutional and would not be effective in any long-term, meaningful way in addressing gun violence. Farmington police Chief Steve Hebbe says he was disappointed Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham issued an emergency public health order that suspends the right of citizens to carry firearms in public in Bernalillo County. More: Farmington murders were New Mexico's first mass shooting of 2023 The knee-jerk reaction to curtail the rights of every citizen rather than focusing on lawbreakers who plague our communities cant be justified, he writes. NM red flag laws, pretrial detention among law enforcement concerns During an interview on Wednesday with the Daily Times, Hebbe said he and the police chiefs association have been engaged for several years in conversations with state leaders about potential changes to state law that they believe would help reduce gun violence in the state. Hebbe said he is a regular visitor to the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, where he speaks to state lawmakers, cabinet secretaries and leaders of the New Mexico State Police about the problem. Hebbe said he has spent a significant amount of time discussing gun-control issues with state Sen. Daniel Ivey-Soto, D-Bernalillo, who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee. Hebbe said members of his association and representatives of the New Mexico Municipal League are particularly interested in seeing adjustments made to the states red flag law, which allows police officers or sheriffs deputies to seek a court order to temporarily remove guns from people they believe might hurt themselves or others, as well as to the states pretrial release laws, especially as it relates to defendants accused of committing a gun-related crime. Violent crimes with guns, we should be taking a harder line with, he said, explaining that prison sentences for those found guilty need to be stiffer. Hebbe said he found those discussions encouraging and believed there might be some progress made toward addressing the concerns he shares with other law enforcement officials around the state when the Legislature convenes early next year. Those are the conversations I want, he said, explaining that while he and other law enforcement officials have made a good-faith effort to explore a variety of solutions to the plague of gun violence in New Mexico, the governors action undermines that. More: Opinion: Gun control and sanctuary counties finding a compromise Law enforcement left out of gun violence conversation In his letter, Hebbe includes a passage that claims the governors action demonstrates a pattern of not involving law enforcement officials in the problem-solving process. On Wednesday, he said he feels like he and many other law enforcement officials in New Mexico simply have been closed out of that discussion. He described the order as ill conceived and said he was not surprised it was partially blocked by a federal judge. More: New Mexico shooting: 4 die in Farmington, including shooter. 2 officers wounded. What we know Hebbe concludes his Sept. 12 statement by joining many other voices in calling for a special legislative session during which law enforcement officials across the state would work with lawmakers to address gun violence. We must work together to solve this serious problem that affects citizens throughout the state, he writes. By choosing the Public Health Order method, the Governor has taken the focus off crime. Nevertheless, Hebbe said he didnt think it was too late for the two sides to come together and reach common ground on the issue. I hope not, he said. I think law enforcement leadership is still here and want to be working with legislative leaders across the state. 'The voice of professional law enforcement' Hebbe said the idea to issue the statement was his. He crafted an original version of the statement and sent it to the executive board of the New Mexico Association of Chiefs of Police for feedback, a group that includes fellow chiefs Harold Medina of Albuquerque, Chris Williams of Portales, Andrew Owen of Bosque Farms and Kirk Roberts of Artesia, as well as Roberta Baca, criminal division director of the Office of the Superintendent of Insurance. The final version was released Tuesday afternoon in the form of a news release and a video message read by Hebbe on the Farmington Police Departments Facebook page. Hebbe said the New Mexico Association of Chiefs of Police features more than 60 members statewide and represents officials from Santa Fe, Las Cruces, Albuquerque, Hobbs, Rio Rancho and other cities. The organization bills itself as the voice of professional law enforcement in New Mexico and is dedicated to promoting leadership in law enforcement, providing training and support, and working with communities. It operates under the umbrella of the New Mexico Municipal League. Hebbe previously served as president of the association in 2020 and 2021. He began a new two-year term as president on Sept. 1. Mike Easterling can be reached at 505-564-4610 or measterling@daily-times.com. Support local journalism with a digital subscription: http://bit.ly/2I6TU0e. This article originally appeared on Farmington Daily Times: Hebbe says he's not surprised judge partially blocked gov's order Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is heading to the United States with plans to meet President Biden at the UN General Assembly this week, as his country faces perhaps its worst domestic crisis ever. And it's not about the Palestinian conflict: it's about Israelis fighting Israelis. Massive numbers have poured into the streets to protest the Netanyahu Coalition, Israel's most far-right government ever, and its move to weaken the court system. The judicial overhaul is seen as so radical, President Biden has urged Netanyahu to walk away from this; telling him on the phone to uphold our quote "shared democratic values." This is what up to 200,000 Israelis across the country have done every Saturday night for over eight months. This packed protest is in Tel Aviv. Some nights have turned violent with police clashes, counter-protests and cars ramming into the crowds. It can feel like the country is unraveling. The protests were triggered by the government's judicial initiative to sap the Supreme Court of much of its power. A wide majority of the country sees weakening the court as a power grab, since it is the only check in Israel on the government. People who had never demonstrated in their lives, have poured into the streets like Eyal Naveh. He leads a group of tens of thousands of military reservists, who are at the forefront of this democracy movement. They call themselves "Brothers and Sisters in Arms" as it says on their t-shirts. They're pilots, fighters, intelligence officers, some are war heroes, many still go on dangerous missions. Ron Scherf Ron Scherf : And now, the danger is from inside. Lesley Stahl : More than the enemies from without- Ron Scherf: Now, yes. Much more. This is an existential threat to Israel. We spoke to three of them Shira Eting Shira Eting: I was a combat helicopter pilot. Ron Scherf - Ron Scherf: Commander in the special forces. And Omri Ronen - Omri Ronen: I'm a former officer in an elite commando unit. Ron Scherf: When a regime, a government wants to gain unlimited power, people are afraid. And the people in the streets today are afraid that the government is going to gain unlimited power without judicial review. They all served under Netanyahu's past governments without hesitation but fear this one: a coalition of settler extremists and the ultra-Orthodox. The head of national security has had multiple convictions, including supporting terrorism against Arabs. The finance minister is a self-described fascist homophobe. As for Netanyahu he's in the midst of three separate trials on charges of corruption. The protestors say that laws his government has introduced over 200 of them would not only weaken the courts, but control the press and diminish individual rights, and that this is how democracies like Hungary became autocratic. Omri Ronen Omri Ronen: What happened in Hungary and Poland will not happen here. Lesley Stahl: There is a trend and it's going against you around the world Omri Ronen: Yeah. Shira Eting: We'll be the first to stop it. Lesley Stahl: (laughs) You're all determined. Omri Ronen: We are not joking. We are really-- Ron Scherf: Serious. Omri Ronen: --trying to stop it. And we will succeed. Hundreds of thousands of Israelis protest proposed judicial overhaul for 37 weeks One of their big worries is that without a strong Supreme Court, the ultra-Orthodox bloc in the government could turn Osrael into a theocracy, where biblical laws prevail. Omri Ronen: Our Supreme Court is our last line of defense. And this is our last safeguard. We need them empowered. We need them independent. That's what we fight for. Lesley Stahl: What is at stake for women, Shira? Shira Eting: That we'll all be sitting in the back of the bus. Lesley Stahl: Literally? Shira Eting: --literally. Lesley Stahl: Are you married? Shira Eting: I'm married to a woman-- a doctor. We have a daughter, she's one year and eight months. Shira Eting Her fear of an assault on women's and gay rights is well-founded: a government member said the gay community is "more dangerous than ISIS and Hezbollah." Another major complaint is that the ultra-Orthodox hardly pay any taxes and don't have to serve in the military, which is compulsory for all other Jewish Israelis. The Supreme Court ruled that that is not fair. But defying the court, the Orthodox plan to pass a law in the Knesset, Israel's parliament, that would turn their unofficial military exemption into an ironclad law. Eyal Naveh: They want a law that they will not go to the Army. My 15-years-old, in three years he will go to the army. I'm gonna not sleep, like, three years. And the other father, the ultra-Orthodox father, will sleep all the time. Eyal Naveh, father of six, is so passionate about this, he's working at Brothers and Sisters in Arms round the clock. He and Ron served together in Israel's most famous commando unit, like the Green Berets, called Sayeret Matkal. They're using their military skills to lead a campaign of civil disobedience and harassment, including at the homes of Knesset members to pressure them to vote down the judicial overhaul. Shira Eting: You want to make those elected officials understand that what they're doing is wrong. You want to wake up and shake up people. And you don't do that by being nice. That means forming human chains in front of the Defense Ministry they block major traffic arteries. Their barricade of the Knesset brought out police water cannons. members, including Ron, have been arrested and interrogated. Here they're surrounding the car of Justice Minister and Vice Prime Minister Yariv Levin , the architect of the controversial judicial overhaul. They wreak havoc outside his home by burning tires and disturbing his neighbors. He says he respects their right to protest, but to remember his government won the election. Yariv Levin Yariv Levin: No democracy can accept a situation that the government, the elected government that has a majority in the parliament, won't be able to pass any bill and to do anything because there are protests, because there are some people that are against it. Lesley Stahl: You say that the people who fear that there won't be equal rights for everybody are completely mistaken and their charges are baseless. However, you are part of the most right-wing government that Israel has ever had. Yariv Levin: And I'm proud to be part of that government, and I think that's what Israelis wanted to see. Lesley Stahl: But you have people in your Cabinet who have made openly racist and homophobic statements, and they're ministers. Yariv Levin: I can assure you that the vast majority of the members of parliament that support this government stand firmly behind democratic and liberal principles. Lesley Stahl: But under your rules, if they all pass, this-- the government could overrule the court. Am I wrong? Yariv Levin: This is not my-- what I'm offering. The situation in Israel is that the Supreme court is above the government, is above the parliament, is even above the will of the people. What I want to do is to balance it. He says the court is an elite bastion that too often overrules lawmakers chosen by the people. The fight over the court has brought the country to a cold civil war. In July, the first step of Levin's judicial overhaul passed, severely limiting the court's power to strike down government decisions. Some 10,000 military reservists were so upset, they pledged to stop showing up for duty. Some of Netanyahu's allies suggested they should be tried, even executed. Shira Eting: If you want pilots to be able to fly and shoot bombs and missiles into houses knowing they might be killing children, they must have the strongest confidence in the people making those decisions. Ron Scherf: In the moral values of them. Shira Eting: Exactly. When they made their decision, many Brothers and Sisters in Arms came to tears. Eyal Naveh: It was the hardest things to do. When you are in your DNA a soldier, this is what I do, 25 years, it's in my blood. It's like to cut a hand. Lesley Stahl: Do you know what they say about you, your group, that you're unpatriotic and that you're traitors. Eyal Naveh: They can say whatever they want. I am a patriot. Every year I go to reserve and serve. I leave the house, I leave my children, I leave my wife, I leave everyone to serve. My friends died for this country. The military has warned that losing so many pilots, and high-ranking reservists could jeopardize readiness and hurt national security. But several former heads of the military and Mossad support the protest and blame the government for allowing the situation to come to this. Lesley Stahl: If you did find out that Israel was at risk because of so many reservists leaving, would you step back and withdraw your proposals? Yariv Levin: What's the price of democracy? What are you suggesting me to do? We'll tell the Israel citizens, "Okay, don't go to vote. There's no need to hold elections." We'll come to those ex-militarists and will ask them what we are allowed to do or not. One issue rarely mentioned by the Brothers and Sisters in Arms is the Israeli occupation of the West Bank. Lesley Stahl: If you don't include Palestinian rights as part of what you're fighting for, then how can you say you're fighting for democracy? Shira Eting: Many Israelis have different opinions on the Palestinian conflict. And it's a very dividing issue. Lesley Stahl: So, your coalition would splinter? The protest coalition-- Shira Eting: The -- yeah, if you wanna be able to solve the occupation one day, and I think that everyone here does, the only way to stop it and to solve it is to make sure Israel remains a democracy. This past week, the Supreme Court held a hearing to decide whether to revoke the first step of Levin's judicial package. If the court does, Netanyahu won't say whether he will comply. If he doesn't, it would lead to an unprecedented crisis, leaving it up to the military, the police and the citizens to decide whose orders to follow: the court's or the elected officials'. Brothers and Sisters in arms says it's red alert for Israel's future: with democracy at stake -- Lesley Stahl: But you know, in terms of democracy you can't forget this is a government that was voted in by the people of Israel. And that's democracy. Shira Eting: Every democracy that turned into a dictatorship was elected in a democratic way. This is how democracies turn into dictatorships-- Ron Scherf: And it's not like you wake one day and you say, "Okay, now we're a dictatorship." Small, small things will change the face of Israel. People, you know, tend to say, "Wow, in my country this can happen? No, no. It's only these guys shouting." But it's happening. Produced by Shachar Bar-On. Associate producer, Jinsol Jung. Broadcast associate, Wren Woodson. Edited by Michael Mongulla. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy warns of another World War unless unified steps are taken against Putin 60 Minutes travels to Israel to report on historic protests NFL vets coach girls' flag football Princess Beatrice now has a two-year-old daughter. On Monday 18 September, the royals husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi , who goes by the nickname Edo, took to Instagram to celebrate their daughter Sienna Elizabeths second birthday. The photo features the toddler looking with her back facing the camera, wearing a floral dress and a giant sombrero. "Happy Birthday Baby Girl. You bring us so much love and joy every day," her father captioned the photo. Sienna was born on 18 September 2021, more than one year after her parents got married in a ceremony at the Royal Chapel of All Saints in Windsor in July 2020, less than a year after becoming engaged in September 2019. Her name also has ties to the royal family, according to a family friend of the couple. They were looking for an Italian name which started with an S for Sarah, to honour the duchess {Sarah Ferguson], and also reflected the golden rust colour of both the duchesss hair colour and Beatrices, which the new baby shares, they told Hello! Magazine. And, in keeping with tradition, the newborns middle name is Elizabeth, a nod to her late great-grandmother Queen Elizabeth II. Sienna is Princess Beatrices first child with Mozzi. Mozzi already has a four-year-old son named Wolfie from a previous relationship with architect Dara Huang. In an announcement previously shared to Twitter, Beatrice posted a picture of Siennas footprints, writing: We are delighted to share that we have named our daughter Sienna Elizabeth Mapelli Mozzi. We are all doing well and Wolfie is the best big brother to Sienna. Mozzi shared the same photograph on Instagram with the caption: Sienna Elizabeth Mapelli Mozzi. Our life together has just begun, and I cant wait to see all the amazing things that await us. Feeling so much love and gratitude for my amazing wife, baby Sienna and Wolfie. These are the days I never want to forget. This week, a friend said to me the sweetest saying ...that with every child you grow a whole new heart. He added: A massive thank you to the midwife and the amazing team at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. In 2019, Mozzis father, Count Alessandro Mapelli Mozzi, revealed that all of his sons future children will receive the title nobile donna. Mozzi, whose official title is Count, comes from a family that was part of the Italian nobility before the country became a republic in 1946. Sienna is currently 10th in the line of succession to the British throne, just behind her mother. The toddlers birthday celebration comes after the announcement of another expansion to their family as Mozzi announced earlier this month that his younger brother, Alby, is engaged. So happy for my little bro Alby and Chelsea! Finding that special someone is truly the greatest blessing in life. Your engagement news fills my heart with so much happiness. Wishing you both a lifetime of love, laughter, and endless adventures! he captioned a snap of his brother and future sister-in-law on Instagram. Never Back Down, the super PAC supporting Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis s (R ) presidential bid, rolled out a new ad on Monday touting the governors stance on the southern border. The ad, titled Warzone, will start airing in the early contest states of Iowa and New Hampshire this week and is a part of a $25 million ad buy that was announced last month. The Hill was the first outlet to view the ad. Americas border is a warzone, the ads narrator says, highlighting armed incursions, human trafficking, [and] death. Open borders means every state, is a border state. Bringing crime where we live and lethal drugs in our schools, the ad continues. The only candidate fighting to secure our border now is the only candidate who served in a warzone: Ron DeSantis. Republicans are increasingly seeking to go on offense over the border amid news stories about migrants crossing the border and being sent to cities governed by Democrats. Some Democrats, including New York City Mayor Eric Adams, have criticized Republican governors like DeSantis for sending migrants to other cities, as well as the Biden administration for its handling of the border. Adams, whose city has received thousands of asylum-seekers for months, said earlier this month that the vast number of migrants being sent to the city will destroy it and has called for help from the federal government. DeSantis has been a frequent critic of the Biden administration on the matter and has said he would 100 percent send the military to the border. If theres a woman with a baby, theyre not a cartel member. Theres not going to be authorization to just shoot somebody like that. But when somebodys got a backpack on, and theyre breaking through the wall, you know that thats hostile intent, and you have every right to take action under those circumstances, DeSantis told CBS News last week. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. I had to have known this moment would come. As a technology evangelist, Id spent years minimizing AIs potential to destroy jobs. Every paper I wrote about AI and its practical cousin, Robotic Process Automation (RPA)which uses software robots to accomplish thinking tasks like reading emailsboasted that the software would liberate employees from drudgery and enable them to do more meaningful work, or words to that effect. But now, the very technology that I helped promote has put me out of the job. Ive been evangelizing the business benefits of enterprise technology for more than two decades, first as a marketing executive and more recently as a freelance writer. At IBM, I was known as a Software Evangelist, and my work always had me delivering secular sermons about the redemptive potential of the latest computer program or hardware. As an apostle of digital transformation, a prophet of workflow orchestration, I gushed with messages from the gods of tech about how products like AI and RPA would allow corporations to be born againor at least generate higher earnings. Workers Are Terrified About AI. What Can They Do About It? And then, earlier this year, things started to go a little quiet. When youre a freelancer, a slowdown is never good, but I grew more alarmed as a client notified me that they would no longer require my services because they were switching their content writing to AI. Others simply dropped me and didnt send a note. Several more accused me of using AI in my writing, so why would they pay me? That was quite a smear. After offering a legally-binding attestation that I have not, and never will use AI in my writing, I worked up the nerve to ask a question thats on the minds of many writers: How do you think the AI software gins up writing that sounds like something I wrote? It does so by stealing. Generative AI programsmodels that can create images, text, and soundsand specifically large language models (LLMs) train their systems by ingesting and analyzing millions of words written by people like me. Then, they spit out their own rendering of those words, which read an awful lot like human writing. Its a Kafkaesque experience to try to prove that you have not stolen writing from a machine that stole your writing in the first place. That seems to be the whole point, though. The AI is so good, you cant tell if its output was written by a person or a machinenot an auspicious situation for homo sapiens who own laptops. My chutzpah didnt change my clients mind, but oh, the cosmic comeuppance of it all. My business isnt dead, but its wounded, and I deserve some of the blame. Id been an eager cog in the machinery of disruption, which has been grinding up American jobs since well before I was born. Kurt Vonneguts frighteningly prescient novel about automation, Player Piano, which features factory workers who train machines to do their jobs only to end up on the street, debuted more than 70 years ago. However, the phenomenon of humans being displaced by machines predated him by a few centuries. Player Piano also contains the remarkable prediction that computing machines, as Vonneguts characters called them, would soon take over for many thinking tasks. He saw it in 1952, and it quickly came to pass, with computers pink-slipping people who sorted checks at banks, answered phones, and inked entries into paper accounting ledgers. Behind every such mass unemployment event was an army of people like me, screaming about the business benefits of automation. I was happy to earn a living contributing to unexpected bouts of joblessness, as long as they happened to other people. The pace of disruptive change is accelerating. Take the RPA-powered virtual employee. Next time you contact your insurance company, you might interact with an AI-driven virtualized insurance claims adjuster with a name like Sally. Shes an RPA bot who handles your claim in collaboration with other bots, or the rare human being. Sally has an AI-generated personality, photo, and voice, but she doesnt require an office or sick leave. With Sally on the job, insurance companies can bless their human employees with opportunities to do more meaningful work elsewhere. OpenAIs GPT-4 Is Coming for Comedy Show Writers Rooms Some of these innovations are undeniably beneficial. Cybersecurity operations, for instance, would be paralyzed without AI. The problem is that people pushed out of work by disruptions increasingly have nowhere to go. So much of that meaningful other work I so passionately evangelized is unavailable in the form of steady jobs. Working Americans of all ages have now joined what I call Generation D (Disrupted). For the majority of us, a career now comprises a series of short-term jobs punctuated by regular layoffs driven by technology changes, mergers, or a need to goose earnings. As we age, it gets harder to find jobs, especially as the hiring process itself is now controlled by AI-based software that embodies age bias. Some of my Gen D cohort have been able to adapt. I transitioned into freelancing after getting laid off from IBM in 2009, along with 10,000 others, a month after the CEO told shareholders that people were IBMs greatest asset. Im turning 60 in just over a year, and Im not sure I can reinvent myself yet again. This may be one disruption too many. Younger members of Generation D are better equipped for the struggle, though a lot of them seem to be adrift, too. The gig economy could be a solution, though AI appears to be mangling that, too. Upwork tells me I can audition to edit AI-generated articles for $8 an hour. Im not quite there yet, but ask me about it in a few months. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Russian President Vladimir Putin will use the threat of nuclear war to stoke instability in the United States and Europe, Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in his interview with U.S. television channel CBS on Sept. 17. "I think that he (Putin) is going to continue threatening, Zelenskyy said. Read also: Russia sends Belarus decommissioned nuclear warheads Budanov He is waiting for the United States to become less stable. He thinks that's going to happen during the U.S. election. He will be looking for instability in Europe and the United States of America. He will use the risk of using nuclear weapons to fuel that (instability). He will keep on threatening." On the back foot in its war of aggression against Ukraine, and having lost the initiative on the battlefield, Russia has frequently threatened Ukraine and the world with the use of nuclear weapons. Dmitry Medvedev , a former Russian president and Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of Russia, issued Russias latest nuclear escalation threat on his Telegram channel on July 5. Medvedev said that the war could be brought to an end within a few days if Ukraine ceases to receive assistance from its partners. Read also: Russia hasn't made preparations to use nuclear weapons yet - CIA Chief Before that, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin announced on June 9 that Moscow would begin stationing tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus after July 7-8. 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 Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy pushed back on polls that show his rising unfavorability among voters, claiming people are annoyed by my rise. When asked by Shannon Bream on Fox News Sunday about recent polling showing Ramaswamys high unfavorables, the 2024 White House hopeful said, The reality is many people are annoyed by my rise and believe that a 38-year-old is too young to be U.S. president. Bream referenced an opinion piece published in The New York Times last month, which wrote, Of all the descriptors attached to Vivek Ramaswamy, the 38-year-old political tyro enjoying a bizarre surge in the Republican primary race for second place, the most common one seems to be annoying. Ramaswamy, a tech entrepreneur billionaire, appeared to laugh at Breams commentary, saying, his campaign has taken intense criticism over the last several weeks. This is part of the process, so I invite the open debate, Ramaswamy continued, echoing his past comparison of himself to founding father Thomas Jefferson in discussions about his age. The fact of the matter is Thomas Jefferson was 33-years-old when he wrote the U.S. Declaration of Independence, Ramaswamy said. He also invented the swivel chair while he was at it, by the way. And so, I think we need to revive that spirit. Bream also touched upon former President Trumps commanding lead in a recent GOP primary poll by Fox News, which showed Trump securing 60 percent of the Republican primary vote, compared to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis with 13 percent and Ramaswamy with 11 percent. Asked about the point of his campaign as he and other GOP candidates struggle to catch up to Trump, Ramaswamy remained confident in his success. We came from 0.0 percent to where we are now. I think were on track to win this election, Ramaswamy said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Nine-year-old Debbie Lynn Randall was walking home from a laundromat a half-block from her Georgia home in 1972 when she was snatched off the street, raped, and strangled to death. The freckle-faced third-graders body was found 16 days laterbut the question of who killed her remained a mystery for more than half a century. Debbie Lynns parents died without knowing who killed their little girl, Cobb County District Attorney Flynn Broady said at a news conference. But in what has become a familiar chain of events, police say that they have figured out who did murder the girlthanks to genetic genealogy techniques that match the DNA profile of an unknown suspect to profiles of possible relatives on popular ancestry sites. After creating a family tree for the suspect, investigators determined he was likely William Rose, who was 24 at the time of the slaying and who killed himself two years later for unknown reasons. He was never a suspect in the case. He was not on our radar at all, said Ron Alter, a cold case investigator in the DAs office. They exhumed his body and made a 100 percent match with a small piece of cloth found with Debbie Lynns remains that was preserved for 50 years. Debbie Lynns brother, Melvin, was on hand for the announcement that one of Cobb Countys oldest mysteries had be solved. I wish my mother was here but I know she knows in heaven now that its finally over, he said. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Most thunderstorms only last a couple of minutes before they rain themselves out. A few thunderstorms manage to survive for a couple of hours, rolling across the horizon as a formidable torrent. Visit The Weather Network's hurricane hub to keep up with the latest on tropical developments in Canada and around the world But a tiny fraction of thunderstorms grow into something bigger than themselves over the course of several weeks, managing to swirl into the history books among the rarest storms recorded in modern history. Hurricane Lee defied the odds to become one of those top-tier storms. Originally starting as a cluster of thunderstorms in sub-Saharan Africa, within three days Lee morphed from a mere tropical depression into a monstrous Category 5 storm. Lees journey to Canada began two weeks and 9,000+ km away Lee began like many peak-season hurricanes in the tropical Atlantic Ocean. Monsoon season over sub-Saharan Africa is ripe for thunderstorms to roll across the continent and over the eastern portion of the ocean. PHOTOS: Thousands left in the dark in the Maritimes after Lee's wrath Hurricane Lee satellite September 1 2023 If these clusters of thunderstorms find warm waters, low wind shear, and ample moisture, this tropical wave can quickly seed the development of a tropical depression. Tropical Depression Thirteen formed on Sept. 5 as the unstable air feeding into those thunderstorms pulled air away from the surface, leaving less airand lower air pressureabove the ocean. Hurricane Lee satellite September 5 2023 DON'T MISS: How hot water fuels the worlds most powerful hurricanes This newly formed low-pressure centre rapidly organized under very favourable conditions, growing into Tropical Storm Lee within just six hours of first becoming a depression. Things got serious in a hurry. Every once and a while, under perfect conditions, a tropical system can take full advantage of the environment around it and undergo a period of rapid intensification. Rapid intensification occurs when a storms maximum sustained winds jump at least 55 km/h in a 24-hour period. That may not seem like much, but it can mean the difference between a Category 1 hurricane and a Category 3 hurricane over the span of a single day. WATCH: 2023 has seen a category 5 hurricane in every corner of the tropics Click here to view the video Lee becomes a rare Category 5 hurricane Within 24 hours of Tropical Storm Lees inception, on September 6, its winds quickly climbed from 75 km/h to 120 km/h, a 45 km/h increase, earning the storm the new title of Hurricane Lee. While this sudden jump fell just short of being classified as rapid intensification, Lee was only just getting started. Hurricane Lee satellite image Hurricane Lee had grown into a Category 2 storm by the afternoon of September 7, with forecasters becoming confident that it would quickly reach major hurricane status. By that same evening, Lees winds had rapidly intensified to Category 4 strength. DON'T MISS: How a mammoth hurricane rapidly intensifies in mere hours Later that night, and 30 hours after it first grew into a hurricane, Hurricane Lee became a scale-topping Category 5 storm with maximum sustained winds of 260 km/h. Its winds jumped 95 km/h in just 12 hours, and by an astounding 130 km/h over the course of just 24 hours, making it a top-tier storm in terms of rapid intensification in the modern era. Notable Hurricane Rapid Intensification Events Lee further intensified to its apex with 270 km/h winds by 5:00 a.m. on Friday, September 8. RELATED: A world first, every tropical ocean saw a Category 5 storm in 2023 This remarkable intensification made Hurricane Lee only the 29th Category 5 hurricane ever recorded in the Atlantic Ocean since the satellite era began back in 1960, and the eighth scale-topping storm to churn through the Atlantic in the past decade alone. Thankfully, Lees peak strength didnt last very long. A little bit of wind shear and dry air knocked the storm off-balance, quickly forcing the storm to lose some of its pristine structure and weaken over the following two days as it passed far north of the Caribbean Sea. A large Lee eyes Canada A trough dipping over eastern North America began to steer Lee toward the northdirectly toward the Canadian Maritimes. Warm waters over the western Atlantic allowed Lee to regain some of its former strength, bringing the storm back to major hurricane status on Sunday, September 10, a status it would maintain as it passed west of Bermuda over the next couple of days. RELATED: Saharan dust can make or break a monstrous Atlantic hurricane At this point all eyes were on Hurricane Lees path along the Atlantic coast, and how it would impact New England and Atlantic Canada. Several scenarios were in play for how Lee could progress as it moved northward. However, which track would come to fruition couldnt be determined until closer to its landfall. (NOAA) Hurricane Lee satellite image September 14 2023 Hurricane Lee on September 14, 2023. (NOAA) By the afternoon of Wednesday, September 13, Lee was still maintaining a Category 3 strength making forecasters and East Coast residents sweat. At this point, too, it was becoming clearer that New England and Atlantic Canada were going to face the impacts of this mighty storm. Luckily, by Wednesday evening Lee had weakened into a Category 2 storm, and by Thursday afternoon it weakened even further to Category 1. Environment and Climate Change Canada issued hurricane watches and tropical storm warnings for the Maritimes, alerting residents to prepare for the storms arrival on September 16. WATCH: Storm anxiety high among Nova Scotians after a harsh year Click here to view the video 160,000+ lose power as Lee hit the Maritimes Hurricane Lee began to lose its tropical characteristics as it approached Atlantic Canada, transitioning from a hurricane into a storm more closely resembling a noreaster. Lee Landfall Nova Scotia 5pm September 16 2023 This transition also helped the storm massively expand its wind field, with tropical storm-force winds stretching more than 550 km from the eye at its largest, the whole storm measuring more than 1,000 km from end to end by the time it reached Nova Scotia. During the early hours of Saturday, September 16, Lee arrived over the Maritimes as a post-tropical storm, later making its official Canadian landfall at 5:00 p.m. local time. The long-anticipated storm caused widespread impacts across the provinces. Lees ferocious winds knocked down trees and power lines throughout the region, severing power to hundreds of thousands of homes across Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island. Many roads were closed during and after the storm as a result of flooding from storm surge, rough surf, and heavy rains. HFXWIND Halifax Airport saw a 117 km/h wind gust at Lees peak on September 16, with Halifax Harbour recording a storm surge of 0.72 m at high tide that morning. Immense waves churned the ocean just offshore, with buoys measuring 10+ m wave heights as the storm raked the region. image (1) Widespread rainfall totals of 50-100 mm blanketed the Maritimes, padding the historic rains much of the region saw earlier this summer. Lee pulled away from the region overnight Saturday into Sunday, September 17, unraveling as it swiftly departed to the north. The hurricanes 9,000+ km journey from sub-Saharan Africa to the Canadian Maritimes is one thatll live forever in weather history for its ferocity and the sheer speed at which it achieved its frightening strength. Header image courtesy of NOAA. WATCH: House shifted off its foundation as Lee hits Peggy's Cove Click here to view the video Read the full article on Motorious The Rarest Gem of Pontiac Lineage. Picture a car so rare, so powerful, and so immaculate that it stands as an embodiment of an era. That's precisely what the 1962 Pontiac Catalina Super Duty Lightweight represents. Famed for its Aluminum Front End Package and a history of ruling the streets, this Catalina is more than a car; it's a legend on four wheels. High-Performance Right From the Factory The 1962 Pontiac Catalina Super Duty was a street sleeper, a car designed to look unassuming but packed with raw power. With its Solid Lifter 421 cubic-inch engine delivering 405 horsepower, this machine was no slouch when it came to performance. Add to that an aluminum intake manifold equipped with dual 500 CFM Carter carburetors, and you had a monster that was ready to own the streets. Unbeatable Exclusivity Only 179 of these Catalina Super Duty models were ever made in 1962, making them an incredibly rare find for any collector. Yet this specific example boasts an even greater level of rarity. It is one of just 45 equipped with the Aluminum Hood, Fenders, Inner Fenders, and Bumpers. These aluminum components didn't just add a visual appeal; they substantially reduced the vehicle's weight, enhancing its performance dynamics. Flawless Restoration and Documentation Restored by Super Car Specialties, every detail of this Catalina has been meticulously handled, reinforcing its status as one of the finest examples in the world. From its numbers-matching 421 Super Duty engine to its unique aluminum exhaust manifolds, it's a completely authentic specimen. The car also comes heavily documented, including restoration photos and PHS (Pontiac Historic Services) certification, which only adds to its extraordinary value and provenance. Impeccable Style and Comfort This particular example is finished in stunning Mandalay Red, and its interior follows suit with an equally striking red upholstery. Inside, you're greeted with a bench seat and a dash-mounted tachometer, underscoring the car's focus on performance and driving precision. Drive the Legend Equipped with a 4-speed manual transmission and a 4.30 Saf T Track Differential, driving this Catalina is nothing short of a visceral experience. Every shift of the gear takes you back to 1962, an era where the Catalina Super Duty was the undisputed king of the streets. Your Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity The 1962 Pontiac Catalina Super Duty is more than just a collector's item; it's a statement of Pontiac's engineering prowess and dedication to high-performance vehicles. Owning this masterpiece is like holding a significant piece of automotive history in your garage. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own the epitome of Pontiac's excellence. A car this exceptional doesn't just represent a bygone era; it invites you to become a part of its illustrious history. Sign up for the Motorious Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Leaf-peeping, apple-picking, choosing the perfect pumpkin. Fall activities have returned, but a Vermont autumn wouldn't be complete without the chance to get lost among 10-feet tall stalks of corn. Corn mazes are open now, offering visitors a chance to test their sense of direction, puzzle-solving skills and, in some cases, sheer sense of will. Of course, some mazes are designed to be easier to navigate than others. A couple prominent corn mazes end their season halfway through October, while others will remain through Halloween. A few host spooky days or events leading up to All Hallows' Eve or have a pumpkin patch on the premises for grabbing fall decorations or jack-o-lantern pumpkins. So, get your comfy shoes, bag of snacks, can-do attitude and maze-solving strategy there are about a dozen mazes across Vermont and the nearby area to explore. A fork in the road at Sam Mazza's Farm Market corn maze on Oct. 16, 2022. Corn mazes in Chittenden County If Chittenden County corn mazes were compared to schools, then the elementary maze would be Isham Family Farm, middle school challenge would be Whitcomb's Land of Pumpkins & Corn Maze and the high school-level puzzle would be Sam Mazza's Farm Market. The three mazes have come to be known for their varying puzzle designs each year, incorporating fun and learning along the way and surprises to find among the stalks. Here's what to know about these three local mazes. Isham Family Farm This year corn maze navigators can make their way through the stalks looking for the four Vermont animals: the varmint, critter, holy cow and jeezum crow. Among the two-acre challenge, the experience includes elements of fun in dead-ends, misdirection and helpful signs. The maze also celebrates the four b's: birds, bees, bugs and butterflies. Season: Sep. 3 through end of October or after a couple hard frostsHours: Everyday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Address: 3515 Oak Hill Road, WillistonCost: $5 per person or $20 per family (cash and Venmo accepted)More info: ishamfamilyfarm.com, 802-872-1525 or farmermike@ishamfamilyfarm.com Whitcomb's Land of Pumpkins & Corn Maze Whitcomb's four-acre maze's five checkpoints highlight daily chores that keep the farm operational. By visiting each checkpoint, visitors can get the letters needed to solve a word scramble. There's also a candy jackpot in the maze and a hidden marked ear of corn, that when found, earns the finder a free small pumpkin or some gourds to take home. Season: Begins Sep. 16 Hours: Wednesdays 1 to 5 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Address: 347 Fay Lane, WillistonCost: $6 ages five and up, Free for children four and youngerMore info: whitcombslandofpumpkins.com, whitcombslandofpumpkins@gmail.com Sam Mazza's Farm Market At Sam Mazza's, there are 12 checkpoints in its sprawling corn maze to help orienteers make their way through seemingly endless stalks without getting lost. This year's theme is dinosaurs. Budding paleontologists can bring their knowledge and attention to detail to assist them making it through the puzzle. Season: Sep. 8 through Oct. 31Hours: Mondays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Address: 277 Lavigne Road, ColchesterCost: $11 for ages 12 and up, $6 for 3 to 11 years old, Free for two and underMore info: sammazzafarms.com, (802) 655-3440, smazzafarms@comcast.net, facebook.com/sammazzafarmmarket Not just in Greek myth or relegated to a labyrinth, a minotaur inhabits the Great Vermont Corn Maze in Danville on Oct. 5, 2019. Corn mazes worth the drive Looking to take your corn maze skills to the next level or have a unique day trip experience? Here are a couple worth consideration. Great Vermont Corn Maze The Great Vermont Corn Maze in Danville would be the collegiate level corn maze. The largest corn maze in New England is celebrating 25 years of "cornfusion" this year. There's the big maze, a 24-acre sprawl with tunnels and bridges that can take puzzlers two to four hours to complete. Or, there's the scenic maze which offers directions and can be completed within an hour. An emergency exit trail allows those needing a quick exit to utilize the facilities or grab a snack and then get back to where they left off. There's also an extensive children's play area. Expect the visit to take most of the day at an hour and a half drive from Burlington and multiple hours, potentially, in the maze. Season: July 29 through Oct. 15Hours: Weekdays 9 a.m. to noon entrance (closed Tuesdays); Saturdays and Sundays maze entrance from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.Address: 1404 Wheelock Road, DanvilleCost: $25 per person ages 16 to 59, $15 for 5 to 15 and 60+, Free for four and under. Tickets tend to sell out on weekends and holidays, so ordering in advance is recommended. Buy tickets online at greatvermont.cornmazetickets.com or call/text 802-397-8574. (Visitors age 15 and younger require direct adult supervision.)More info: vermontcornmaze.com, 802-748-1399, info@vermontcornmaze.com Fort Ticonderoga Corn Maze Just over the border into New York and still on Lake Champlain is a unique experience that combines exploration of history and a corn maze. The Heroic Corn Maze at Fort Ticonderoga employs clues that connect to the story of the fort. There are two phases to the maze; this allows visitors the option to continue further. There are also ways to exit quickly, if needed. The drive is about an hour and a half from Burlington, but the site offers visitors many more experiences than the corn maze. Season: July 29 through Oct. 15Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Last entry into corn maze at 4:30 p.m. each day.Address: 102 Fort Ti Road; Ticonderoga, New YorkCost: Admission to the museum includes the corn maze. $27 for adults, $25 for seniors, $13 for ages 5 to 15.More info: fortticonderoga.org, (518) 585-2821, info@fort-ticonderoga.org Wandering through rows of corn looking for the exit at Sam Mazza's Farm Market corn maze on Oct. 16, 2022. Corn mazes across Vermont If life-size walking puzzles are your thing, there are more corn mazes across Vermont open for exploration. Here are some others to try and their approximate driving time from Burlington. Percy Farm Corn Maze , Stowe. 45 minute drive.Info at: gostowe.com/listing/percy-farm-corn-maze; facebook.com/percyfarmcornmaze/ Peck Farm Orchard , East Montpelier. One hour drive.Info at: peckfarmorchard.com/corn-maze Hathaway Farm & Corn Maze , Rutland. 1.5 hour drive.Info at: hathawayfarm.com River of Life Camp Corn Maze , Irasburg. 1.5 hour drive.Info at: riveroflifecamp.com/news-and-events/corn-maze/ Kingdom Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch at Simpson Farm , Sutton. 2 hour drive.Info at: kingdomcornmaze.com. Gaines Farm , Guilford. 2.5 hour drive.Info at: gainesfarm.com. Equinox Valley Nursery, Manchester. 2.5 hour drive.Info at equinoxvalleynursery.com/pumpkin-patch. Contact reporter April Barton at abarton@freepressmedia.com or 802-660-1854. Follow her on Twitter @aprildbarton. This article originally appeared on Burlington Free Press: Corn mazes across Vermont and Lake Champlain area House Republican leadership is sure of one thing: theyd like to start the impeachment process against Joe Biden . Whats less clear is what theyd like to impeach him over. In his first comments to the press about the impeachment inquiry launched this week, Speaker Kevin McCarthy spoke about a picture of a culture of corruption painted by House Republican committees investigating Hunter Biden and his father, referencing a handful of allegations dug up over the course of hearings and interviews. At the heart of Republicans allegations are claims that Biden, as vice president, improperly benefitted from his sons foreign business partners and received millions in secret bribes. Some of the allegations involve reiterations of claims made by Rudy Giuliani during his attempt to dig up dirt on the Biden family an effort which ultimately led to the first impeachment of Trump. The impeachment inquiry announced by McCarthy comes after months of investigations by the House Oversight and Judiciary committees into Hunter Bidens business dealings since Republicans took control of the House in the 2022 midterms. Those inquiries have uncovered a number of thinly-sourced claims about the Bidens, but havent yielded much in the way of evidence implicating the then-vice president in any crimes. Nevertheless, GOP leaders have spent months alleging they can prove Biden is a felonious traitor. I am committed to ensuring that we uncover the truth about what I believe will prove to be the biggest political corruption and criminal scandal in our nations history, Rep. Elise Stefanik said in the wake of McCarthys announcement on Tuesday. So what are the main claims against the Bidens that are likely to fuel the Republican impeachment push and whats behind them? Heres a guide: What kind of influence peddling is Hunter Biden accused of? Some of the most frequently cited testimony of alleged Biden influence peddling cited by House Republicans comes from Devon Archer, a former business partner of Hunter Biden at the private equity firm they co-founded, Rosemont Seneca Partners. House Oversight Chairman James Comer hailed Archer, who was convicted in 2022 in connection with an unrelated scheme to defraud a Native American tribe, as a potential hero of Republicans investigations into the Biden family. His allegations cast the former president in an unflattering light but fell short of expectations he would offer evidence of wrongdoing. Archer testified before the Oversight Committee in July, claiming that a key component of Hunter Bidens involvement with foreign companies like Ukraines Burisma Holdings, where he sat on the board, was using his family name as a signal and a brand to potential business partners that helped with opening doors. Archer also told Republicans on the committee that while Joe Biden was vice president he attended dinners with Hunters Russian and Kazakh business partners in Washington, D.C., and that Hunter would sometimes call his father on speakerphone while attending dinners with business associates. In other words: Hunter Biden was selling access to Joe. And through his calls and drop-bys, the then-VP tacitly endorsed his sons play. The problem for Comer and Republicans is that Archer testified that Hunters use of his family name and proximity to his vice president father never resulted in any official actions taken on their behalf. Pressed repeatedly by House Democrats, Archer said he knew of no instances in which the vice president discussed business with his son or took any official actions on behalf of his associates. Conversations between Biden and his sons associates, Archer claimed, were limited to anodyne small talk. Under questioning from Democrats, Archer also testified that Hunter and his father spoke more frequently at this time, following Beau Biden s cancer diagnosis and death in 2015. Who says Biden took bribes? The most serious allegation levied by Republicans, that then-Vice President Joe Biden received a $5 million bribe from Burisma, is also among the most thinly sourced, coming from a tipster who reiterated claims dug up by Rudy Giuliani in Ukraine. In 2020, a confidential human source told the FBI that Burisma founder Mykola Zlochevsky had claimed that the Bidens coerced him to pay them $10 million in bribes $5 million to Hunter Biden and $5 million to his father in order to get then-Vice President Biden to pressure Ukraine to fire a prosecutor, Viktor Shokin, who was allegedly investigating the company. The source also claimed that Zlochevsky had made 17 secret recordings of his conversations with the Bidens, two with Joe and 15 with Hunter. Investigators found a record of the tip in 2020 in the course of investigating allegations against the Biden family brought by Giuliani. Rep. Jamie Raskin, the ranking Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, says the Justice Department, under Attorney General Bill Barr, investigated the tipsters claims, including reviewing suspicious activity reports and interviewing at least one confidential human source, but closed the investigation eight months later, citing a lack of evidence. Zlochevsky has also denied ever receiving assistance from then Vice President Biden. Why is a key Republican witness missing? House Republicans have also endorsed allegations by Gal Luft, an Israeli-American businessman who worked for CEFC, a Chinese energy company who engaged in joint ventures with Hunter Biden, netting the vice presidential scion millions of dollars. Luft claims that the Chinese intelligence-linked officials funneled money to the Biden family and that Hunter Biden had a secret one-eyed FBI mole who provided early warning to CEFC founder Ye Jianming and associate Patrick Ho that they were under investigation by the Bureau. (Ho was subsequently convicted of bribery and money laundering in connection with business ventures in Chad and Uganda). Rep. Comer has called Luft a whistleblower and a very credible witness, but Luft is also an international fugitive following an indictment this summer by the Justice Department in July. Federal prosecutors charged Luft with acting as an unregistered foreign agent for China, arms trafficking Chinese weapons to Libya, violating U.S. sanctions with Iranian oil deals, and lying to the FBI. Luft was arrested in Cyprus on a U.S. extradition request but fled while out on bail. Luft claimed to have shared his information about the Bidens in a 2019 meeting with the FBI during an interview in Brussels. Prosecutors charged him with lying to the FBI agents about his knowledge of CEFCs business dealing with Iran during that same interview. Luft has since claimed that the charges against him are political retaliation for his allegations against the Bidens. Democrats have asked Rep. Comer to investigate whether Lufts allegations were made in furtherance of the CCPs efforts to undermine U.S. security interests and the President of the United States. What now? The inquiry comes at a precarious time for McCarthy, who has long faced pressure from the right flank of his caucus to impeach Biden, as well as from former President Trump, who began asking Republicans how many times they planned to impeach Biden on the eve of their 2022 midterm victory. Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), a persistent critic of McCarthy, argued forcefully for the inquiry but said that the speakers decision to move ahead with impeachment wont affect far-right Republicans push to get drastic spending cuts as the federal government faces a potential shutdown over the Houses inability to pass a budget. But a number of Republicans have expressed unease with the impeachment push. The White House, keen to seize on doubts within the House GOP, issued a memo to the media highlighting quotes from Republican members like Rep. Ken Buck (R-Colo.) who have said that evidence justifying impeachment doesnt exist right now. Despite those evidentiary concerns, members in vulnerable districts appear to be sticking by McCarthys impeachment crusade. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Click here to read the full article. Freight train test run on BRI railway via Padma Bridge conducted in Bangladesh Xinhua) 11:12, September 18, 2023 DHAKA, Sept. 16 (Xinhua) -- A freight train trial run was conducted successfully Saturday on a section of the railway built under the framework of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and via the Chinese-built Padma Bridge in Bangladesh. Syed Ahmed, project director of Bangladesh Railway's Faridpur Rail Project, told journalists that the five wagons of the goods train carried 350 tons of stones during the trial run. He said the train at a speed of up to 80 km per hour departed from Bhanga station in Faridpur district in central Bangladesh on Saturday morning, and returned to Bhanga station after reaching Mawa station. Ahead of the BRI railway's opening, the Bangladeshi government last week launched the first passenger train on a major part of the newly-constructed mega BRI rail line crossing Padma Bridge. The 172-km railway via the bridge is one of the most significant projects under construction by the China Railway Group Limited (CREC) and funded by the Export-Import Bank of China. (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun) Everyone knows Winnie the Pooh, Baloo and, of course, the bears from the Country Bear Jamboree, but a new bear might be trying to join the Disney family. That black bear was spotted at Disney World's Magic Kingdom park near Orlando, Fla., on Monday afternoon, leading to temporary closures in multiple sections of the theme park. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission was notified that the bear had been spotted in a tree at the park. Read more: A black bear was euthanized in Colorado. A necropsy showed its intestines were plugged with human garbage "Biologists with the FWCs Bear Management Program, as well as FWC Law Enforcement officers, have safely captured the adult, female bear," an FWC spokesperson said in a statement to The Times. "In most cases, it is best for bears to be given space and to move along on their own, but given this situation, staff have captured the animal and are relocating the bear out of the park to an area in or around the Ocala National Forest." The spokesperson noted that bears tend to be more active during the fall as they look to increase their fat reserves in preparation for winter hibernation. "This particular bear was likely moving through the area searching for food," the representative said. According to the My Disney Experience app, which monitors the status and wait times for rides across Disney parks, the Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, Jungle Cruise and Thunder Mountain Railroad were temporarily closed. Overall, the Frontierland, Liberty Square and Adventureland sections of the parks were closed as a result of the incident but have since reopened, according to the Washington Post. Read more: The horror of alligator attack on boy at Disney World resort is detailed in new reports Representatives for the Walt Disney World Resort did not immediately respond to The Times' request for comment. This is not the first time wildlife has caused a scene on Disney property. In 2016, a 2-year-old boy was attacked and killed by an alligator on the beach at Disneys Grand Floridian Resort and Spa near Orlando. Since the incident, Disney has removed over 250 alligators from its Florida properties. Read more: 'Succession's' Crystal Finn was attacked by otters in Northern California and shared her painful experience An 8-year-old boy was attacked by an alligator at Disney Worlds Fort Wilderness in Florida in 1986 while vacationing with his family. He was injured but survived the incident. In a much lighter situation earlier this year, a squirrel was captured on video crashing Disney World's Carousel of Progress ride in comic fashion. Sign up for L.A. Goes Out, a weekly newsletter about exploring and experiencing Los Angeles from the L.A. Times. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. If you feel like Bluey has taken over your household, this is your chance to bring your household inside Bluey. Beginning November 6, the Camp store at Westfield Century City will host Bluey x Camp, a ticketed event that invites guests to venture inside the Heeler house for whats basically a live interactive episode of the show. The adventure takes place inside a 5,000-square-foot re-creation of the Bluey house. There will be opportunities that feel familiar to fans of the show, including a two-story pillow fort, a cardboard box castle with slides, and chances to play Magic Asparagus and Keepy Uppy. Eagle-eyed fans will spot Easter eggs all over the place: garden gnomes, tennis balls and long dogs abound. Youll have the chance to watch a brand-new Bluey animation created specifically for this experience, and then see Bingo and Bluey in a grand finale meet-and-greet. (And take selfies with them, of course.) Bluey premiered on Australian television in 2018 and in the U.S. in September 2019, scarcely half a year before every parent in America found themselves unexpectedly at home with their children all day every day. A wholesome cartoon about a family of dogs who love to play make-believe found a receptive audience. Today, the show counts a considerable number of adults among its fans, including ones with no kids at home. I cant shut up about Bluey, gushes a TikTok roundup in New York magazine . Its the best kids show of our time , says a critic for Vulture. The cult of Bluey'' is a bible for modern parenting, per the Guardian. How many shows that start as childrens programming merit enough enthusiasm to earn both a Macys Thanksgiving Parade balloon and a satirical skewering in the New Yorker? The "Bluey" balloon at the 2022 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. (Gotham / GC Images) Read more: How five 'magic' years turned an Aussie kids show into a global TV phenomenon Bluey x Camp will take place behind the hidden Magic Door inside the Camp store at Westfield Century City. The front area of the Camp store is the retail area, called the "canteen," which features merchandise and play areas as well as the "Schmutz Schtation" a DIY slime bar. The Century City location is one of nine Camp stores around the country, the first of which opened in 2018. As online retail has exploded in the past decade, physical stores like Camp are trying to tempt shoppers by offering more than just a place to buy stuff. They want customers to come for the experience of being in the store a chance to make memories, not just merch sales. For Camp, part of that is these shows. Around the country, Camp locations host offerings themed around "Encanto," "Paw Patrol," "Mickey and Friends" and other kid-oriented intellectual properties. Kirk Larsen, Camps chief creative officer, explained how the Bluey x Camp show differs from some of the other immersive offerings out there that don't amount to much more than an Instagram backdrop. Sometimes people say immersive, but it really is just, there's a bunch of stuff on the walls, he said. Not so with this, he says. Employees, known as counselors, are fully versed and ready to put on an hourlong show for anyone who comes through, Larsen said. A core component of counselor training: Watching every episode of Bluey." The spirit of the show is the beauty of collaborative play and improvisation between adults and kids, Larsen said, and Bluey x Camp aims to bring that to life for guests. Read more: Review: A 6-year-old reviews 'Bluey's Big Play' We endeavor really to place you in these environments and make you feel like you are fully in them and living in them, he said. Were trying to do something that's a little bit different and has a little bit more meat on its bones in terms of living up to the experience and making you feel like you're at a theatrical show a show where the counselors are "making sure that everybody's moving and sweating and getting silly." The experience, like the show, is designed to be fun for everyone. "We write to the parents and then we play to the kids," Larsen said. Larsen says guests should plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to leave extra time for parking at the mall. Plan to get physical: Every family member should be dressed as if someone is about to yell activate dance mode at them nigh a certainty in this scenario. And plan (both psychically and financially) for the gift store at the end: The experience lasts one hour, but Larsen said to allot extra time for browsing the exclusive co-branded BBC Studios and Bluey youth and adult merchandise collection in the store. Tickets are available at camp.com/bluey and run $36 to $42. Guests ages 2 and up must be ticketed. The experience will be available in Los Angeles from Nov. 6 to Jan. 15. Sign up for L.A. Goes Out, a weekly newsletter about exploring and experiencing Los Angeles from the L.A. Times. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The months-long search for a missing Indiana woman has taken a grim turn after her car was discovered near human remains, according to investigators. A real estate agent was showing a Rockville home to potential buyers when they stumbled across the vehicle and the remains at about 5 p.m. Sept. 17, the Parke County Sheriffs Office said in a news release. Betty Jane Capps, 68, was last seen at her home in the nearby town of Mecca more than two months ago, on the afternoon of June 29, according to the sheriffs office. She disappeared along with her car, a gray 2007 Ford Focus. Betty Jane Capps. Its not known where she was going, the sheriffs office said in a July 13 Facebook post, adding that authorities searched the area with drones, planes and ATVs. Conservation officers combed local bodies of water using sonar, but still there was no sign of her and there wouldnt be for another two months. An Indiana real estate agent stumbled across the car of a missing 68-year-old woman while showing a home, authorities say. After receiving a call from the real estate agent, investigators headed to the rural Rockville home and located Capps car 200 yards from the road, down an embankment, the sheriffs office said. Human remains were found close to the car, the sheriffs office said. The remains have not been identified, but an investigation is underway, with assistance from the county coroners office and Indiana State Police, according to the release. The only thing she took was her wallet. So she left her dog at home, and her house was unlocked. She wasnt going very far when she left, stepdaughter Melanie Capps told WTHI in August. I miss her, and I want her to come home. I want her to call ten times a day and annoy me, she told the station. I didnt know I would miss that. Rockville is about 60 miles west of Indianapolis. Woman hides in ex-boyfriends car with knife then tries to kill him, PA officials say Body appears in front of two people canoeing in scenic Florida river, sheriff says Woman finds parents dead after they miss lunch, Ohio cops say. Her brother is charged 79-year-old hunter mysteriously vanished as wife waited for him. Now hes feared dead The 360 shows you diverse perspectives on the days top stories and debates. Photo illustration: Juanjo Gasull for Yahoo News; photos: Getty Images (2) Whats happening Charter schools pride themselves on not offering a one-size-fits-all approach to education. Since theyre run by private organizations, they have far more freedom over how they operate than the typical public school. Charter schools can choose the hours and days they offer instruction, shape their curriculum around specific skills, like leadership, or emphasize certain cultural values. What they cant do, at least for now, is promote specific religious beliefs. Thats because while charter schools are privately owned, unlike private schools theyre mostly funded by the government (rather than tuition) and are open to all students. And in the United States, publicly funded schools are legally barred from offering explicit religious instruction. Oklahoma is hoping to change that, however. In June, a state education board approved an application to create the St. Isidore of Seville Virtual Charter School, an online Catholic school that would be the countrys first taxpayer-funded religious school. Several groups, including some of the countrys most prominent charter school advocates, have sued to block St. Isidore from opening. Oklahoma law requires all charter schools in the state to be nonsectarian, and the U.S. Supreme Court established decades ago that religious instruction in public schools violates the First Amendment. But the high courts current conservative majority has handed down a series of recent decisions granting more rights to religious groups and individuals in education, leading many on both sides of the issue to believe the justices could create a legal pathway for religious charters like St. Isidore if given the chance. Why theres debate Proponents of creating religious charters argue that charter schools in general shouldnt be considered part of the government under the law, regardless of where their funding comes from, because they are operated privately. But beyond the legal question of whether religious charters are constitutional, there is also heated debate over what their impact on American education would be. Supporters of schools like St. Isidore, including Oklahomas Republican governor and state superintendent, say faith-based charters will empower parents by giving them more opportunity to choose what kind of education they want their kids to receive. They also make the case that such schools can help keep students in the public education system at a time when public school enrollment is dropping across the country. The most ardent advocates say denying church-based groups the right to operate charter schools while allowing secular organizations to do so is a form of religious discrimination. Opponents, on the other hand, say religious charters would undermine one of America's founding principles: that government funds should not endorse any one faith over another. They also worry that religious charters will discriminate against people of other faiths and LGBTQ students in ways that would be patently illegal for public schools. The strongest critics, though, say that efforts to create religious charters are part of a much larger effort by the Christian right to undermine the broader American public education system. They argue that these groups are using the legal ambiguities around charters to chip away at the wall that has long separated church and state in U.S. public schools. Religious charters add a new wrinkle to the much larger fight over the concept of school choice, an increasingly popular movement to expand educational opportunities outside of the public school system. Along with charter schools, another key pillar of school choice is vouchers programs that allow public funds to be used to pay for private-school tuition. Vouchers can already be used at religious schools, thanks to a Supreme Court ruling that found the money effectively comes from parents, rather than directly from the government. Whats next St. Isidores administrators are aiming to welcome the schools first class of students at the start of the 2024 school year, but that timeline is subject to the outcome of the ongoing legal challenge. The case against St. Isidore will likely need to be decided in Oklahomas state courts before the U.S. Supreme Court can consider whether to take up the issue. Perspectives Supporters Religious charters could help save the public school system Opinion on public education is souring. Those concerned about the diaspora from traditional public education should appreciate that growing and diversifying options inside of the public system may be the best, if not only, way to respond to families interest in choice while preserving key elements of public schooling, like transparency, accountability, and a degree of democratic control. Andy Smarick, The 74 Charter schools are basically private and should have the right to operate how they please Clearly, a standard public school one operated by government employees under the supervision of a political school board cannot be a religious enterprise. But charter schools, though publicly funded, are not publicly operated. They are organized and run by private groups and individuals; their whole raison detre is to offer education unavailable in government schools. Jeff Jacoby, Boston Globe Opponents of religious charters really oppose Christianity as a whole [Critics] are just secularists who wish to impose their secularism on religious communities. Something deeply un-American is under way in the state of Oklahoma, indeed. Natan Ehrenreich, National Review The government frequently contracts with faith-based groups in other contexts We all the time bid out contracts for companies to provide services to the state or to the federal government. For instance, contractors who work on building your roads. Is anyone going to suggest that, just because public money is going to that entity for a job, that suddenly it becomes a state actor? That's just nonsense. Kimberly Strassel, Wall Street Journal Opponents Faith-based charters would siphon resources from already struggling public schools If religious charter schools become a reality, they could rejuvenate religious education, particularly Catholic schools, which have been losing students for many decades. They could lead to fewer students, and thus less funding, for public schools. Matt Barnum, Chartbeat The charter school movement could be derailed if it becomes associated with religious conservatism Its not a sector that people have a really clear grasp of right now. Having religious charter schools enter that sector, in my view, would fundamentally reshape peoples understanding of what a charter school is. Jon Valant, Brookings Institution senior fellow, to Christian Science Monitor The benefits of public charters would realistically be available only to Christians Smaller poorly funded religious groups will never be able to mount their charter schools and thus never be able to partner with the government. The state will therefore be subsidizing some religions (i.e., larger and/or wealthier ones) much more than others. Jacques Berlinerblau, The Hill Religious charters would mean the government would be directly funding discrimination Because our nation persistently defers to religion, we have given religious institutions, including parochial schools, the right to ignore anti-discrimination laws and employment protections. In other words, when the government funds religious education, it is often underwriting the very discrimination it has banned. Kate Cohen, Washington Post The end goal for supporters is to impose Christian principles on all public school students Charter schools are at the center of [the far rights] strategy to destroy secular public education. Eventually, the hope is that parents will only have two choices left for their kids: a Christian nationalist program or no school at all. Amanda Marcotte, Salon Photo illustration: Juanjo Gasull for Yahoo News; photos: Getty Images (2) Rep. Jennifer Wexton (D-Va.) announced Monday that she will not be seeking reelection, citing her worsening health challenges. Im heartbroken to have to give up something I have loved after so many years of serving my community, Wexton said in a statement. But taking into consideration the prognosis for my health over the coming years, I have made the decision not to seek reelection once my term is complete and instead spend my valued time with Andrew, our boys, and my friends and loved ones. Wexton, 55, revealed in April that she was diagnosed with Parkinsons disease, saying at the time that the disease had primarily affected her speech but that she hoped to keep serving for many years to come. But in the lengthy statement issued Monday, the Virginia Democrat said her diagnosis changed to progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), which she described as Parkinsons on steroids. She said she sought out additional testing after she was not making progress in managing her symptoms on her previous treatment plan. Ive always believed that honesty is the most important value in public service, so I want to be honest with you now this new diagnosis is a tough one. There is no getting better with PSP. Ill continue treatment options to manage my symptoms, but they dont work as well with my condition as they do for Parkinsons, she said. Wexton flipped a Republican-held seat during the 2018 midterms to win election to her first term in Congress. Since then, she has been reelected twice to represent Virginias 10th district, representing suburbs outside Washington. When I made the decision to run for Congress, this was clearly not the way I anticipated it coming to a close but then again, pretty much nothing about my time serving here has quite been typical or as expected, she said. While my time in Congress will soon come to a close, Im just as confident and committed as ever to keep up the work that got me into this fight in the first place for my remaining time in office to help build the future we want for our children, she added. I am truly humbled by the trust Virginians have placed in me, and I look forward to continuing to serve the people of our district. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, PSP is a rare neurological disorder that affects body movements, walking and balance, and eye movements. The disease can lead to severe disability and serious complications within three to five years, according to the institute. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Rep. Jennifer Wexton won't seek reelection after being diagnosed with progressive supranuclear palsy, the Virginia Democrat announced Monday. Wexton shared in April that she had been receiving treatment and medical evaluations for Parkinson's disease, but this modified diagnosis has more imminent implications. Progressive supranuclear palsy is a neurological disorder that affects eye movements, body movements and walking and balance. Wexton said she intends to serve out the remainder of her term. "I sought out additional medical opinions and testing, and my doctors modified my diagnosis to Progressive Supra-nuclear Palsy a kind of 'Parkinson's on steroids,'" Wexton shared in a statement. "I've always believed that honesty is the most important value in public service, so I want to be honest with you now this new diagnosis is a tough one. There is no 'getting better' with PSP. I'll continue treatment options to manage my symptoms, but they don't work as well with my condition as they do for Parkinson's. "I'm heartbroken to have to give up something I have loved after so many years of serving my community. But taking into consideration the prognosis for my health over the coming years, I have made the decision not to seek reelection once my term is complete and instead spend my valued time with Andrew, our boys, and my friends and loved ones." Wexton, 55, said she noticed that women in her Parkinson's support group weren't having the same symptoms she was, and she sought out additional opinions and testing. Before coming to Congress, she was a prosecutor, attorney, and state senator. She was elected to Congress in 2018, the year Democrats took control of the House during former President Donald Trump's time in office. Rep. Jennifer Wexton's idea for heading off government shutdowns She serves on the House Appropriations Committee, and has fought for bipartisan legislation to expand opioid addiction research. Wexton and her husband have two sons. Pence knocks Trump for skipping 2nd Republican debate Biden warns world leaders not to let Ukraine "be carved up" New features in Apple's iOS 17 update: What to know The Republican congresswoman admitted the transgressions after CCTV was released A US Republican congresswoman has apologised after being kicked out of a performance of the family-friendly musical Beetlejuice for vaping and allegedly groping her date. Lauren Boeber and an accompanying male guest were escorted from the theatre for vaping, recording video and disturbing other patrons on Sept 10. A video also showed them appearing to grope one another while in their seats. CCTV footage showed Ms Boebert touching her guests groin, while he fondled her breasts during the Sunday performance. The congresswoman for Colarado, aged 36, had initially denied she had been vaping, but surveillance footage obtained by a Denver television station showed otherwise. Patrons of the theatre tried to intervene but said Ms Boebert was argumentative On Twitter, she wrote last week that she [pleaded] guilty to laughing and singing too loud! A patron of the theatre reportedly confronted Ms Boebert and asked her to stop vaping. Ms Boebert is said to have refused. These people in front of us were outrageous, the unnamed woman said to the New York Post. Ive never seen anyone act like that before. Argumentative According to a report of the confrontation from theatre security, Ms Boebert and her guest also became argumentative. Do you know who I am? the congresswoman allegedly asked. On Friday evening, Ms Boebert whose disruptive antics and extreme rhetoric have earned her a cult following on the Right changed tack and apologised for her behaviour. Lauren Boebert is known for her disruptive antics - EMILY KASK / AFP) The past few days have been difficult and humbling, and Im truly sorry for the unwanted attention my Sunday evening in Denver has brought to the community, said Ms Boebert, a mother of four boys. She added that her public and difficult divorce has created a challenging personal time for me and my entire family. Ive tried to handle it with strength and grace as best I can, but I simply fell short of my values on Sunday, Ms Boebert said. Ms Boebert added that she would have to work hard to earn back the trust from voters in her district. But that may be a difficult feat; Ms Boebert won re-election in 2022 by just 546 votes. 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 Republican candidate for Missouri governor on Monday vowed to burn books if elected after he was criticized for a video showing him burning cardboard boxes with a flamethrower. The video, which has gone viral on social media, shows state Sen. Bill Eigel , a Weldon Spring Republican who is running for governor in 2024, and state Sen. Nick Schroer , a St. Charles Republican, using flamethrowers to torch a stack of boxes at a fundraising event in Defiance in St. Charles County on Friday. In the video, I am taking a flame thrower to cardboard boxes representing what I am going to do to the leftist policies and RINO corruption of the Jeff City swamp, Eigel said in a statement to The Star on Monday. But lets be clear, you bring those woke pornographic books to Missouri schools to try to brainwash our kids, and Ill burn those too - on the front lawn of the governors mansion. Eigels remarkable comment promising to burn books comes as he embarks on a campaign for governor attempting to appeal to the staunch right wing of the Missouri Republican Party. Public book burnings typically illustrate extreme censorship related to political, cultural and religious materials. They often invoke historic atrocities such as burning of Jewish texts in Nazi Germany or racist bonfires by the Ku Klux Klan. Eigel will face a primary that features two of the states top Republicans, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft and Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe. Photos and video of Eigel and Schroer using the flamethrowers have been shared hundreds of times on social media over the past two days. House Minority Leader Crystal Quade, a Springfield Democrat who is running for governor, in a statement criticized Eigel saying that he and his extremist allies idea of campaigning for governor is using a flamethrower to burn whatever he doesnt agree with. Watching lawmakers use flamethrowers to intimidate folks they disagree with is a jarring reminder of how they view their jobs as a joke, while real people suffer from their cruelty, Quade said. We deserve a government thats going to work to solve real problems, not make political stunts. Schroer, reached by phone on Monday, said the video was taken during an event called Freedom Fest hosted by the St. Charles County Republican Central Committee. He and Eigel were burning empty boxes to help the committee raffle off a flamethrower, he said. The Republican state senator criticized those who said he was burning books, saying that they were spreading false information. Schroer on Friday shared a photo of himself using the flamethrower, saying he was Burning down the swamp! Democrats and liberal activists on the social media site X, formerly known as Twitter, also quickly condemned the video, accusing the Republicans of simulating the burning of books. Some incorrectly said the two lawmakers were actively burning books. Next time, dont forget your hoodsinhaling fumes from burning books and crosses is noxious business, Jess Piper, the executive director of Blue Missouri, a group that fundraises for Democrats, wrote in response to one of the videos, drawing a comparison to burnings by the Ku Klux Klan. Debbie McFarland, a committee member and organizer of the event, told The Star that the two Republican senators were burning empty boxes, including trash and empty wine boxes. She painted criticism of the video as a liberal leftist narrative. While the boxes that Eigel and Schroer burned were empty, criticism of the video comes as some Missouri Republicans have targeted book content. This year, House Republicans agreed to cut from the state budget $4.5 million for libraries in retaliation for a lawsuit on behalf of two library groups challenging a new state law that bans certain materials in school libraries. Those funds were later restored in the Senate this year. Eigel on Monday posted another angle of the video on social media, calling on people to visit his campaigns website to fight back against these woke radicals. By Tim Reid and Gram Slattery (Reuters) - Former Vice President Mike Pence said China is close to becoming an "evil empire" on Monday as he and fellow Republicans vying for their party's presidential nomination ramp up rhetoric against what they say is America's number one foreign adversary. "China is the greatest strategic and economic threat facing the United States in the 21st Century," Pence said in a speech at the conservative Hudson Institute in Washington. "China may not yet be an evil empire but it is working hard to become one," Pence said. Pence called for increased arms sales to Taiwan, breaking off U.S. economic ties with essential Chinese industries, restricting Chinese nationals working in U.S. technological companies to reduce intellectual property theft, and a nationwide ban on Chinese-owned TikTok social media. The Republicans campaigning to become the party's pick for the November 2024 election are almost in unanimous agreement: China is the leading foreign foe of the U.S. In this Republican race, the attacks are more frequent and the proposals bolder, political operatives said, thanks to a shift in U.S. public opinion. Some 50% of Americans identify China as the greatest threat to the United States, according to a Pew Research poll released in late July. Russia is next, according to 17% of respondents. Vivek Ramaswamy, a tech investor in the race, is due to deliver a speech on Thursday in which he will lay out his plan for securing economic independence from China. Fellow rival and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is also due to give a foreign policy speech soon, his aides said. In it, he is expected to lay out an aggressive stance towards China. DeSantis has already called for ending normal trade relations with China. In Florida, he has banned TikTok from government and school-issued devices. In his speech, Pence amplified a split within the Republican candidates over the war in Ukraine, and how China will view the continued U.S. response to Russia's invasion of its neighbor. Pence said it was vital the U.S. gives all military support necessary to Ukraine so it can defeat Russian forces. Without naming them, Pence decried what he called the "isolationism" of some 2024 rivals - such as Ramaswamy, DeSantis and former President Donald Trump - who have questioned unchecked military and economic support for Ukraine. "Consider what would happen if the Republican appeasers are successful in pulling support for Ukraine," Pence said. "What message would it send to China, except a giant, flashing green light for the Chinese invasion of Taiwan." China, which claims democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, has increased its military activities near the island in recent years in response to what Beijing calls "collusion" between Taiwan and the United States. (Reporting by Tim Reid and Gram Slattery, editing by Ross Colvin and Grant McCool) Some Republicans are up in arms over the Senates dress code update, with many blaming Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.), who is known to prefer shorts and hoodies instead of suits. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) called the change disgraceful and pointed the finger at Fetterman. Dress code is one of societys standards that set etiquette and respect for our institutions, she posted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. Stop lowering the bar! Her comment elicited a biting retort from Fetterman. Thankfully, the nations lower chamber lives by a higher code of conduct: displaying ding-a-ling pics in public hearings, he wrote on X, referring to Greene showing sexually explicit images of Hunter Biden during a House committee hearing in July. Fettermans office didnt immediately respond to The Hills request for comment. The former Pennsylvania lieutenant governor has in recent weeks taken to voting from the edge of the chamber, because he couldnt be on the floor without violating an informal dress code unless he wore a suit. Senators are able to choose what they wear on the Senate floor. I will continue to wear a suit, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) said in a statement shared with The Hill on the change. Despite his simple announcement, several have reacted harshly to the change. Its just another step in the movement by the Democrats to transform America, to take us to a place that is much less respectful than we historically have been, Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) said during a morning interview on Fox Business. Conservative commentator Monica Crowley called Fetterman a revolting slob. This is a material debasement of a storied institution and an absolute reflection of Americas steep decline, she wrote on X. The change doesnt apply to staff or outside visitors, who will continue to be required to adhere to the business attire policy. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. After a bitter, years-long fight with big-money developers, the residents of a rural county in Utah will now have a say on whether they want a massive ski resort in their tiny town. Five residents of Morgan County won a court battle last week over their application for a referendum on the resort, Wasatch Peaks Ranch, which would span 11,000 acres and cost $500,000 a year for membership. The developersa group of wealthy, anonymous investorschallenged the petition when it was filed in 2019, arguing it was improperly notarized and submitted five minutes past the deadline. On Friday, Second Judicial District Court Judge Noel S. Hyde ruled in favor of the residents, ruling that there was insufficient evidence to establish that the application was untimely and that the arguments regarding the notarization were unpersuasive. The decision allows the petitioners to start collecting the signatures needed to get the referendum on the ballot. Cindy Carter, a resident who helped organize the referendum, said she was extremely confident they would get the signatures needed. I just have to say that I feel like this is such a win for right versus wrong, she said. All we have done is try to give the people their voice, and that's what the U.S. Constitution guarantees. These guys think with big money that they can take away that right, she added. And I think on Friday we proved to them they can't. Inside the Battle Royale Over a Utah Ski Resort for the Uber-Rich The developers appealed the case to the Utah Supreme Court on Monday. A spokesperson for Wasatch Peaks did not respond to a request for comment. A vocal contingent of Morgan County residents have opposed the resort since it was proposed in 2019, arguing that it would destroy the small-town character of the area. The developers, who include Dick Bass of Snowbird and Earl Holding of Snowbasin, argued it would create jobs and bring in tax revenue while preserving much of the open land on the property. The referendum, filed by locals Dave Pike, Bob Bohman, Shelley Paige, Whitney Croft, and Brandon Peterson, challenges a Morgan County Council vote that approved the rezoning of the Wasatch Peaks Ranch land for commercial development. The petitioners say the council approved the changethe largest rezoning in the history of the countydespite more than 1,000 residents signing a letter opposing it. I just didnt think the seven county council members listened to us, Croft, a seventh-generation Morgan County resident, previously told The Daily Beast. It wasnt anything personal, we just wanted to let the people decide. The residents have also claimed that the developers staged an intimidation campaign against them, threatening to sue if they persisted with the referendum, and then did exactly that. Hyde did not weigh in on these claims in her ruling, but did argue that the developers aggressively attempted to create a record that the referendum was filed after the deadline, rendering their testimony about the petitions timeliness unreliable. Despite the public pushback, the developers have forged ahead with construction. Three high-speed ski runs are currently in operation, with more to comeunless the citizens of Morgan County vote otherwise. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Canyon Countys fast-food scene will get a little spicier this week. A little more efficient, too. Chipotle Mexican Grill will open its first Caldwell restaurant on Tuesday. The store is at 5005 Cleveland Blvd. If youre familiar with the Chipotle model, you know what youre getting. Solid, fast-casual food from a proven, global chain. But this store also will be equipped with a Chipotlane a special window where customers can pick up digital orders without leaving their vehicles. You can customize a burrito or salad on your phone or computer, paying in advance. Then pull into the Chipotlane and grab the grub with maximum efficiency. The first Chipotlane in the Treasure Valley appeared in late 2021 at a new Boise location. This one in Caldwell will be the fourth Chipotlane in the greater Boise area, according to a media release. This new Chipotle opens in Caldwell Tuesday with a drive-thru Chipotlane. The restaurant is open from 10:45 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. And, by the way, theyre hiring. That goes for Chipotles pretty much everywhere, the media release wants Idaho to know. If youre looking for a recommendation about what to eat? Newsflash: Customer favorite carne asada is back on the menu for a limited time. For guests trying carne asada for the first time and passionate carne asada fans alike, a media release says, Chipotles Head Chef Nevielle Panthaky recommends a Carne Asada Quesadilla with fajita veggies and sides of cilantro lime white rice, black beans, and sour cream for dipping. Chipotlane, here we come. For the first time ever, carne asada fans can experience their favorite protein in Chipotles customizable quesadilla with melted Monterey Jack cheese, optional fajita veggies and three sides. Southside Works is now the home to a new sushi restaurant in Pittsburgh. Kura Sushi USA is a revolving sushi bar that opened on Sunday. The popular Japanese concept brings plates of sushi and other dishes along a conveyor belt to guests. People eating can choose what they want from the belt or order from a tablet. Kura Sushi will be open seven days a week. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW TRENDING NOW: Mother of former NFL player Sergio Brown found dead in Chicago suburb Man dead after being hit by truck tractor at construction site in South Fayette Township Woman dead after crash in North Versailles VIDEO: Its been very successful Pittsburgh Police make South Side entertainment patrol permanent DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) has increasingly tacked to the right in recent years, including mounting a failed challenge to Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.). But his latest primary challenger says its all an act. Rick has done a really great job of marketing. But if you separate his rhetoric from his record the wrecking ball in D.C.? Seriously, hes accomplished absolutely nothing in five years in the U.S. Senate, businessman Keith Gross said. Gross is not shy about why hes willing to part with tens of millions of dollars to unseat Scott, who has also largely self-funded his political career. Its because hes an absolute ineffective crook, basically. If I thought there was an awesome senator in that seat. I would be looking at a different seat. Where can I make a difference? Gross said in an extensive interview with The Hill. But the biggest positive impact I know I can make is in the U.S. Senate by unseating that guy. Gross, like some of Scotts Democratic challengers, has picked up on the senators pledge to become the least popular man in Washington. He says he is the most unlikely guy in Washington, yet the entire party establishment is backing him, trying to place their thumbs on the scale. Scotts campaign did not provide a comment for this story. Grosss run could fizzle. Scott, even if not well-liked, flipped a key Senate seat for the GOP in 2018 and is a reliable self-funder who turned a purple seat into one rated as likely Republican by the Cook Political Report. That means the GOP would like to avoid a contentious primary that raises Democratic hopes, particularly as Scott, along with Sen. Ted Cruz (Texas), is the closest thing Republicans have to a vulnerable senator this cycle. The national party is backing Scott, raising questions about Grosss past, including business dealings and two runs for the Georgia legislature in 2008 and 2010 as a Democrat. Whether hes running as a Democrat in Georgia or running businesses into the ground in Maryland, Keith Gross has a long record of failure and fraud. Rick Scott is going to crush him, said National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) spokesman Philip Letsou. Grosss campaign is growing increasingly chafed over events held by state and local Republican committees in Florida that they see as openly supportive of Scott, potentially violating the partys bylaws or campaign laws. The partys support for Scott has kindled Grosss public animosity for the incumbent, who a campaign spokesperson said is so ineffective he cant even fight his own fights. Ironic that his cronies at the NRSC are doing his dirty work considering he ran the NRSC into the ground, lost a Senate majority and was off on his yacht in Italy while the committee was pulling ads from key states due to reckless spending, the spokesperson said Monday. Rick Scott has lied his whole life. Hes lied about his business dealings and in his last election he ran nine ads, all were fact checked, all were a lie. Hes a proven fraud and you cant trust anything he says. The partys defense of Scott, Gross said, mirrors the GOPs treatment of former President Trump, whom Gross has endorsed. The party is putting their thumb on the scale in favor of one candidate over another in my election, and with the presidential election, too. Like I said, theyre trying to railroad Donald Trump as well, trying to kick him off the ballot through a loyalty pledge, Gross said. The Melbourne, Fla., lawyer and businessman supports Trumps claims questioning the validity of the 2020 election, calling it a corrupt process. Gross used the allegations of electoral fraud to segue into another attack on Scott. We had the last election basically stolen from us it was a corrupt process. And the last thing I want to do is stand by while we have some fraud Rick Scott has literally built his entire career on fraud, he said. Throughout his political career, Scott has fielded attacks over the source of his fortune. In 1997, he was forced to resign as head of Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corp., at the time the countrys largest private hospital operator, following raids on the company by FBI and IRS investigators. The case ended in 2003 with a $1.7 billion settlement over what the Department of Justice called the largest health care fraud in U.S. history. In 2018, former Sen. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) tried to use the issue against Scott, who ran an ad saying the settlement showed he took responsibility for the fraud at his former company. Still, Scotts cash reserves have fueled his two successful campaigns for governor, and his 2018 victory over Nelson by about 10,000 votes. It is a strong allegation, and I believe the only reason hes been elected is because hes never had a serious challenge. If you look at his last election, he outspent his opponent 2-to-1 $30 million to $60 million he outspent and he still won that election with less than half of 1 percent, Gross said. Hes not gonna be able to win this election, because I dont think voters are gonna let him buy a seat this time. By Grosss calculations, both candidates have equivalent fortunes, just north of $250 million. Though Gross believes the GOP donor class will side with Scott, hes ready to keep up. If I have to spend $20, $30 million to get the message out of my own cash, Im not putting that off the table. I mean, Im gonna keep adding to the pile as much as I need to to get this job done, he said. But Gross added he doesnt expect the race to come down to money. If we spend enough to get our message out, I dont think it would matter if he outspends me 5-to-1. He cant win this election because people dont want him, said Gross. Updated at 1:25 p.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Some of the people on this columns list of Remarkable Rochesterian came from faraway places, overcoming obstacles on the way to significant achievements. Their stories are often accounts of perseverance and hope. Heres one more of those stories, that of Puthiery Va, a doctor and a public health leader. She has just become director of Maines Center for Disease Control and Prevention, which has a broad responsibility for promoting and protecting the well-being of the state residents. Va, 43, was born in 1980 in a refugee camp in Thailand, her parents having fled from the horrors of the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia. She went to Louisiana in 1982 with her family, and, in 1984, came to Rochester with her mother, Ponee Chom, her father, Samath Va, her older sister, Phirun, and her younger sister, Parath. (Her brother, Serei, had died earlier in Cambodia.) Dr. Puthiery Va is director of Maines Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Va was such a gift student in Rochester that she graduated from Benjamin Franklin High School and Monroe Community College at the same time. Va would become a star student at Benjamin Franklin High School in Rochester, the valedictorian of the class of 1998. She then graduated from the University of Rochester, went on to be a Peace Corps volunteer and then a medical doctor and epidemiologist. As a health director with the Indian Health Service in Arizona, she was a leader of the response to COVID-19 for the Navajo Nation. Now shes in Maine at a time when the state is dealing with the aftermath of the pandemic and perhaps the arrival of a new wave of the disease. Rochester teacher says Va as eager to learn Vas achievements dont surprise Jay Costanza, her biology teacher at Benjamin Franklin High School, who remembers his student as if she just walked in the door. Puthiery Va as a student at Benjamin Franklin High School in Rochester. It's hard to forget someone whom I could count on daily to light up my classroom with her eagerness to learn and obvious joy in working so well with others, says Costanza, who is retired after 31 years with the city school district. Va remembers Costanza, as well. He was very critical in introducing me to the scientific method to exploring your curiosities through investigation, she says. I credit him for fueling that interest. And then also connecting me to challenging classes. I probably was complaining. And he said, if you're not challenged enough, why dont you take some classes at MCC while you're in school? And she did, gaining enough credits from Monroe Community College to graduate from there at the same time she graduated from Franklin. How did she get about? My father drove me around, Va says. He would take me back and forth from classes in between his work breaks. He would show up in his truck, trying to scarf down his lunch. He brought me something to eat, too, and then he will take me to classes. In addition to her studies at Franklin and MCC, Va took part in a program that connected inner-city youths with health services jobs. She worked as a tech at Rochester General Hospital, continuing in that job while at the University of Rochester, graduating from there in 2001 with a major in biomedical engineering. (She and her husband, Scott Kosel, met at Rochester General Hospital while both were college students. They have two young children.) Va spent time teaching, learning Va would spend two years in the Peace Corps in Burkina Faso in West Africa, teaching mathematics. Electricity had just come to their village; textbooks were in short supply. (But) I never saw a group of kids so dedicated to learning, Va says. And it made me feel good as a teacher, a novice teacher at that. Her own learning then continued at the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine, in Biddeford, Maine, where she would earn her medical degree. Then it was on to medical residencies and research positions. In 2016, she joined the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta as an Epidemic Intelligence Service officer and, two years, later, she went to the Indian Health Services in Chinle, Arizona. When COVID-19 arrived in 2020, it hit the Navajo Nation hard. Many families lived together in multi-generational homes. Once COVID started to spread, it would explode within the homes, Va says. The Indian Health Service worked with the tribe to contain the illness, taking steps to isolate people with the virus. When vaccines arrived, the service did all it could to make them available. How do you not love vaccines? Va asks. Folks lined up for these vaccines because they knew they were life-saving. Maine job is good fit for Va Va still has strong Rochester connections, as her parents live in the house in which she grew up. Her mother is retired; her father is a welder. He will forever work, Va says. He loves to work. Vas sisters are both nurses. Va is a good fit for Maine. She knows the state from her time in medical school, and she can personally relate to its growing immigrant and refugee populations. She arrives at a time when COVID-19 restrictions have eased schools are long reopened, masks arent seen that often. But there has been an uptick in infections. On another front, climate change poses increased challenges. The key for the Maine CDC, Va says, is to be prepared. How do you make sure that we have a workforce that's ready to respond to whatever it is, Va says, whether it's another pandemic, or whether it's an environmental disaster that requires public health to be at the table? Jay Costanzas memories of his biology student suggest that Va will be at the table, working hard. He remembers a time when he took his class to Oatka Creek for an environmental study. It was a hot and humid day, with insects flying all around, he recalls. But Thiery calmly helped other students to navigate the challenging tasks on which they were working. Nothing was too messy or too hard; she took matters into her own hands. Remarkable Rochesterian Given all shes accomplished, lets add the name of this physician to our list of Remarkable Rochesterians that can be found at: https://data.democratandchronicle.com/remarkable-rochesterians/ Puthiery Va (1980 ) She became the director of Maines Center for Disease Control and Prevention in August 2023. Born in a refugee camp in Thailand, her parents having fled Cambodia, she graduated from Benjamin Franklin High School in Rochester and Monroe Community College before graduating from the University of Rochester. After a stint in the Peace Corps in West Africa, she earned a medical degree from the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine and was an officer of the Epidemic Intelligence Service at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta before going to the Indian Health Services in Chinle, Arizona, in 2018 and helping lead the Navajo Nation response to the Covid-19 epidemic. Tag: From his home in Geneseo, Livingston County, retired senior editor Jim Memmott, writes Remarkable Rochester, who we were, who we are. He can be reached at jmemmott@gannett.com or write Box 274, Geneseo, NY 14454 This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Dr. Puthiery Va of Rochester NY now top health care leader in Maine Romania will extend the ban on Ukrainian grain imports by another 30 days if the import requests rise, French broadcaster RFI reported on Sept. 18, citing the country's Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu . However, the decision has not yet been finalized and Bucharest is waiting for proposals from the Ukrainian government on licensing of grain exports. "The Ukrainian Prime Minister ( Denys Shmyhal ) promised to send the export licensing proposal today, which we will discuss," Ciolacu said on Sept. 18. "If there will be export requests to Romania I will ask the agriculture and economy ministers to draft an order extending the ban for a period of 30 days until things are clarified," the prime minister said, stressing that he wants to avoid negative impacts on Romanian farmers. Ciolacu noted that "not a single kilogram" of wheat has been imported into Romania from Ukraine since the European Commission decided not to prolong the ban. Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support Us In May, the Commission imposed a ban on sales of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflower seed in five EU countries: Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, Romania, and Bulgaria. The nations requested the measure due to fears from local farmers that cheap Ukrainian imports would drive down agriculture prices. While the Commission decided not to extend the ban after Sept. 15, citing data indicating that Ukrainian imports would no longer negatively impact local markets, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary decided to continue to restrict imports of Ukrainian agricultural products. Although Bulgaria was not among the countries prolonging the ban, Sofia's decision against the extension revived fears among Bulgarian farmers. Local agricultural workers have blocked main roads across the country in a nationwide protest against Ukrainian imports. Several EU members have criticized the unilateral bans on Ukrainian grain, with Spain deeming the steps "illegal" and France saying it puts the "European project at risk." Berlin also denounced the restrictions, accusing Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia of "part-time solidarity" with Ukraine. "When it suits you, you are in solidarity and when it doesn't suit you, you are not," German Agriculture Minister Cem Ozdemir said. The restriction does not apply to transiting Ukrainian grain. Romania said earlier that it aims to transport 60% of Ukrainian agricultural products through its territory. Read also: Romania wants to transit 60% of Ukrainian grain Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu has said he will ask Romanias Ministers of Agriculture and Economy to sign a joint order on the continuation of the ban on imports of Ukrainian agricultural products for another 30 days. Source: Ciolacu cited by RFI and European Pravda Details: Ciolacu remarked that he is expecting his Ukrainian counterpart, Denys Shmyhal, to provide suggestions on 18 September concerning the licensing of grain exports, which he will discuss. "As you see, the European Commission has demanded the introduction of a licensing system for grain exports to EU countries. The Ukrainian Prime Minister has also stuck to the same logic, stating there will be strict control anyway," Ciolacu said. He added that "not a single kilogram of wheat has been imported to Romania from Ukraine" since the European Commissions decision not to extend the ban on Ukrainian agricultural products. "If there are requests for export to Romania, I will certainly ask the Ministers of Agrarian Policy and Economy to sign a joint order that the restriction should be extended for 30 days until everything is clarified. I repeat, there are no requests, and I would like to assure farmers that it will not be like it was a year ago," Ciolacu stressed. Background: On Friday, the European Commission announced that it would not extend restrictions on imports of agricultural products from Ukraine after 15 September, but Kyiv agreed to take measures to limit imports from its side. However, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia have decided to impose unilateral restrictions, with Warsaw saying their restrictions will remain in place indefinitely. Ukraine has decided to file a complaint against these three countries to the World Trade Organisation (WTO). 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! Channel 4 has removed a number of TV episodes starring Russell Brand from its catch-up series, following allegations of sexual assault against the presenter. The comedian, 48, has been accused of rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse by four women, with the alleged incidents taking place between 2006 and 2013. At the time, Brand was at the height of his fame in the UK and was working as a presenter for BBC Radio 2 and Channel 4. Brand has vehemently denied the allegations in a video released before the report by The Times, The Sunday Times and Channel 4s Dispatches was made public, saying that his prior relationships have been absolutely always consensual. Follow The Independents live coverage for the latest updates As Channel 4 announced that it had launched its own internal enquiry into the allegations against Brand, content containing Brand was removed from its streaming service (formerly known as All4 and 4OD). The box set of Big Brothers Big Mouth, the spin-off show fronted by Brand, has been removed from the platform, Channel 4 confirmed on Sunday (17 September). Also among the removed content is a 2019 episode of The Great Celebrity Bake Off, which Brand co-starred in alongside John Lithgow, Jon Richardson and Hannah Cockroft. He won his episode. A Channel 4 spokesperson confirmed: Weve taken down all content featuring Russell Brand while we look into the matter. This includes episodes of The Great British Bake Off and the Big Brother box sets that he appeared on. Brand (left) on The Great Celebrity Bake Off in 2019 (Channel 4) The Independent has contacted Brands representatives for comment. On Sunday, the BBC said that it is urgently looking at the issues raised about Brand in the report and subsequent documentary. A spokesperson said the investigation had contained serious allegations, spanning a number of years, adding: Russell Brand worked on BBC radio programmes between 2006 and 2008 and we are urgently looking into the issues raised. Channel 4 said it was also conducting its own internal investigation, adding: We would encourage anyone who is aware of such behaviour to contact us directly. Banijay UK, which bought production company Endemol in 2020, said it was launching an urgent internal investigation after staff who worked alongside Brand at Endemol said they were made to feel like pimps. Brand hosting Big Brothers Big Mouth in 2006 (Channel 4) Brand hosted Big Brothers E4 companion show originally called Big Brothers EForum before changing its name to Big Brothers Big Mouth from 2005 to 2007. Brand is accused of pursuing audience members for sex while presenting the show. Banijay UK said they encouraged anybody who feels that they were affected by Brands behaviour while working on these productions to contact us in confidence. Brand denied the allegations in a video released on Friday night ahead of the report and Dispatches documentary. Brand said that he was very promiscuous at the time of the alleged incidents, but claimed that the relationships I had were absolutely always consensual. On Sunday, Brand was dropped by his agent Tavistock Wood. Rape Crisis offers support for those affected by rape and sexual abuse. You can call them on 0808 802 9999 in England and Wales, 0808 801 0302 in Scotland, and 0800 0246 991 in Northern Ireland, or visit their website at www.rapecrisis.org.uk. If you are in the US, you can call Rainn on 800-656-HOPE (4673) Russell Brands publisher has paused its work with the comedian and TV presenter after allegations of rape and sexual assault were made against him. Brand, 48, has vehemently denied the allegations against him and says all of his relationships have been consensual. He is accused of sexually assaulting four women between 2006 and 2013. Others have accused Brand of predatory and abusive behaviour. Publisher Bluebird has now announced that it has paused all future publishing with Brand. The comedian was also dropped by his agent, Tavistock Wood, following an investigation by The Times and Sunday Times, and Channel 4s Dispatches. Bluebird, a Pan Macmillan imprint, has been releasing titles by the comedian since 2017. These have included his self-help book Recovery: Freedom From Our Addictions and new release Recovery: The Workbook, which was due to be published in December. These are very serious allegations and in the light of them, Bluebird has taken the decision to pause all future publishing with Russell Brand, a spokesperson said in a statement to The Independent. Brand has published a number of other books, including his memoir My Booky Wook with Hodder & Stoughton in 2007, and a follow-up, My Booky Wook 2: This Time Its Personal, released by HarperCollins in 2010. In a statement issued over the weekend, Brands former agent Tavistock Wood confirmed that they had been contacted about his alleged behaviour in 2020, which he had denied. Russell Brand categorically and vehemently denied the allegation made in 2020, but we now believe we were horribly misled by him, they said. TW has terminated all professional ties to Brand. (Getty Images) Following the allegations, the BBC and Channel 4 announced that they were launching their own respective inquiries into Brands employment. Senior MPs told The Independent that the broadcasters must provide details of exactly what executives knew of any alleged misconduct by Brand, after he was accused of pursuing audience members for sex and undressing in the studio. The Independent understands that MPs on the culture, media and sport select committee will discuss whether to haul TV and radio bosses up before the Commons in the days ahead when they meet on Tuesday (19 September). A statement from Banijay UK, which bought Big Brother producer Endemol in 2020, said it was launching an urgent internal investigation and encouraged anybody who feels that they were affected by Brands behaviour while working on these productions to contact us in confidence. On Sunday, a BBC spokesperson said the investigation had contained serious allegations, spanning a number of years, adding: Russell Brand worked on BBC radio programmes between 2006 and 2008 and we are urgently looking into the issues raised. Russell Brand (Jonathan Brady/PA) (PA Wire) Meanwhile, Channel 4 has removed a number of TV episodes starring Brand from its catch-up platform. These include a 2019 episode of The Great Celebrity Bake Off, and the box set of Big Brothers Big Mouth, the reality TV spin-off show fronted by Brand. A Channel 4 spokesperson confirmed: Weve taken down all content featuring Russell Brand while we look into the matter. This includes episodes of The Great British Bake Off and the Big Brother box sets that he appeared on. Scotland Yard said it had spoken to The Sunday Times and Channel 4 about their investigation and will be making further approaches to make sure any potential victims of crime are aware of how they can report criminal allegations. Rape Crisis offers support for those affected by rape and sexual abuse. You can call them on 0808 802 9999 in England and Wales, 0808 801 0302 in Scotland, and 0800 0246 991 in Northern Ireland, or visit their website at www.rapecrisis.org.uk. If you are in the US, you can call Rainn on 800-656-HOPE (4673) By Stephanie van den Berg THE HAGUE (Reuters) - Russia called on the U.N.'s highest court in The Hague on Monday to throw out what it said was a "hopelessly flawed" case challenging Moscow's argument that its invasion of Ukraine was carried out to prevent genocide. The Russian request was made at the start of hearings dealing with the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), also known as the World Court. Moscow says Ukraine was using the case as a roundabout way to get a ruling on the overall legality of Russia's military action. Experts say a ruling in Kyiv's favour would not stop the war but could impact future reparation payments. Ukraine brought the case days after the Russian invasion on Feb. 24 last year. Kyiv argues Russia is abusing international law by saying the invasion was justified to prevent an alleged genocide in eastern Ukraine. Ukraine says there was no risk of genocide in eastern Ukraine, where it had been fighting Russian-backed forces since 2014, and that the genocide treaty does not allow an invasion to stop an alleged genocide. Russian officials continue to accuse Ukraine of committinggenocide. On Monday, Russia repeated allegations that the "Russophobic and neo-Nazi regime in Kyiv" was using the United Nations' 1948 Genocide Convention, to which both countries are a party, as a pretext to "drag" a case before the court. The hearings, set to run until Sept. 27, will not delve into the merits of the case and are instead focused on legal arguments about jurisdiction. The convention defines genocide as crimes committed "with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group, as such." "Ukraine insists no genocide has occurred," Russia's agent to the court, Gennady Kuzmin, said in opening remarks. "That alone should be enough to reject the case. Because according to the court's jurisprudence, if there was no genocide, there cannot be a violation of the Genocide Convention." Kuzmin concluded that "Ukraine's legal position is hopelessly flawed and at odds with the long standing jurisprudence of this court" and called on the judges to dismiss the case. On Tuesday, Ukraine will present arguments on why the court does have jurisdiction to have the case continue. The court will also hear from 32 other states, all supporting Ukraine's argument that the court has jurisdiction to move the case forward on Wednesday. Ukraine has already cleared one hurdle as the court decided in its favour in a preliminary decision in the case in March last year. Based on that, the court ordered Russia to cease military actions in Ukraine immediately. Russia has so far ignored the ICJ's orders to stop its military actions and the court has no way of enforcing its decisions but experts say they may have implications for compensation payments after the war. (Reporting by Stephanie van den Berg; Writing by Anthony Deutsch; Editing by Alex Richardson, Philippa Fletcher and Bernadette Baum) Russia is deploying military reserves to the Zaporizhzhya front, while taking heavy losses in fighting there, the Atesh resistance group reported on its Telegram channel on Sept. 18. Movements of reserves, Ural and KAMAZ trucks, and T-72 tanks through Russian-occupied Mariupol towards Zaporizhzhya front were spotted by an Atesh agent. The resistance movement said it hopes this information will help the Ukrainian Armed Forces to meet the reserves in the most effective way. Meanwhile, Russian occupiers are constructing fortifications near the Russian-occupied Azov Sea coastal city of Mariupol, Mariupol mayoral advisor Petro Andriushchenko, reported on Sep. 6. Russian military convoys were also spotted moving towards Russian-occupied Berdyansk further southwest on the Azov Sea coast from Primorsk in Mariupol on Sept. 11. Loud explosions were also heard near Russian-occupied Mariupol, Andriushchenko reported on the morning of Sep. 14. 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 Russia has used an unprecedented number of aircraft for a night attack on Ukraine. Source: Yurii Ihnat, spokesman for the Ukrainian Air Force, on air during the national joint 24/7 newscast Quote: "Last night there was an unprecedented number of aircraft: several dozen aircraft. It is unusual that they were in the airspace at night. These are both drones and tactical aircraft that attacked Ukraine together with the weapons we have talked about: cruise missiles and Shahed drones. Aircraft activity was high." Details: Ihnat added that this is why the F-16 fighter jets that Ukraine is to receive should not be inferior to Russian aircraft in terms of tactical and technical characteristics. Ihnat also explained why it is difficult for the Air Force to shoot down Shahed drones. Quote: "There are not always means of destruction that the enemy is trying to bypass. After all, the enemy plans its strikes in advance. It tries to hit the facilities that we are defending and lays out routes in this way." ... Yes, not all of the Shahed drones [were downed by air defence ed.]. But the enemy is choosing different directions. And attacks from different directions along different routes. Odesa and Mykolaiv oblasts were attacked by Shahed drones. And the missiles were destroyed in Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava and Khmelnytskyi oblasts." Background: Russian forces attacked Ukraine with air-to-surface cruise missiles and attack drones on the night of 17-18 September, with Ukrainian defenders downing 18 drones and 17 missiles. 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! Russia is running out of military resources, Ukraine's spy chief told The Economist. Kyrylo Budanov cited Russia's struggling mobilization and Putin's meeting with Kim Jong Un. Budanov predicts Russia's supply of weapons will dry up by 2026, if not sooner. Russia is running out of reserve troops and weapons it desperately needs to sustain its fighting in Ukraine, Ukraine's intelligence chief said. "Contrary to what the Russian Federation declares, it has absolutely no strategic reserve," Kyrylo Budanov told The Economist in an interview published on Sunday. Budanov cited Russia's underperforming troops, its poor-quality equipment, and Russian President Vladimir Putin's meeting with his North Korean counterpart, Kim Jong Un, as evidence for his claim. "If everything is fine and Russia has enough resources, why are they looking for them all over the world? The answer is obvious. There is nothing to extract any more," he said. Budanov pointed to the "premature" deployment of Russia's 25th Combined Arms Army in early August, which he said had only 80% of the manpower and 55% of the equipment it needed to operate effectively. The UK Ministry of Defence also reported earlier this month that Russia had likely deployed the 25th early, in August instead of December. It's likely that it was "rushed into action early" as Russia "continues to grapple with an over-stretched force along the front and Ukraine continues its counter-offensive on three different axes," the MOD said. While Russia is reportedly poised to step up its mobilization drive, Budanov told The Economist that head count is the only obvious advantage that Russia retains over Ukraine. When it comes to Russian human resources "the quality is low, but the quantity is sufficient," he said. That's not the case for military hardware. Given what he called Russia's dwindling military resources, Budanov predicted that Russia's economy will survive only until 2025, and its flow of weapons will dry up in 2026, or "perhaps earlier," he told the outlet. "A reckoning is coming," Burdanov said, per The Economist. Later in the interview, Burdanov acknowledged that Ukraine also risks running out of resources, but he insisted his country has Western allies ready to supply them with aid, whereas Russia is dependent on itself. While some Ukrainian officials have said they are noticing a "shift" in their partners' readiness to continue supplying support at the same level, Budanov said he had "good intelligence" about realities in the West. "Warehouses in Western countries are not completely empty. No matter what anyone says," he added. "We can see this very clearly as an intelligence agency." Read the original article on Business Insider North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was gifted a bunch of explosive drones during his trip to Russia. The drone presents violate UN Security Council resolutions that Moscow voted for, Reuters reported. During Kim's visit to Russia, he also received a fur hat, rifle, bulletproof vest and space glove. Russia gave North Korean leader Kim Jong Un a bunch of explosive drones as he marked the end of an official six-day trip to the country. The gift of five one-way attack drones and a Geranium-25 reconnaissance drone which Russian state news agency TASS reported has been heavily utilized in the Kremlin's war against Ukraine violates at least two United Nations Security Council resolutions that even Moscow voted for, Reuters reported. The UN resolutions against North Korea were imposed over the country's barred nuclear and ballistic missile programs, according to Reuters. During the visit, Kim was also given a bulletproof vest "with protection zones for the chest, shoulders, throat and groin," as well as a fur hat, Russian-made rifle, and glove from a Russian astronaut's suit that has been to space, according to TASS and Reuters. TASS reported that the North Korean leader was even gifted a "set of special clothing that is invisible to thermal imagers." Kim's trip to Russia unfolded amid reports that Russian President Vladimir Putin is seeking weapons supplies from North Korea to fuel Moscow's war with Ukraine. The North Korean leader, who traveled to Russia in his armor-plated luxury train, concluded his visit on Sunday when he headed back to Pyongyang by train, Russian state media reported. When Kim met with Putin last week, the North Korean leader pledged his support to Russia. "Now Russia has risen to the sacred fight to protect its sovereignty and security against the hegemonic forces that oppose Russia," Kim said, adding, "We will always support the decisions of President Putin and the Russian leadership," according to Reuters. Read the original article on Business Insider Credit - Photo-illustration by Lon Tweeten for TIME Images: Alain Pararazzi Cubano / YouTube, Facebook, CyberResistance UA / Telegram Alex Vegas Diaz was surprised to find himself sleeping next to Russian soldiers in a trench in Ukraine, more than 6,000 miles from home. In his telling, the skinny 19-year-old Cuban accepted an offer posted on WhatsApp to make good money doing construction work for the Russian military. Instead, he and a friend were taken to a base, outfitted with weapons, and sent against their will to the front lines of a war they never intended to join. What is happening in Ukraine is uglyto see people with their heads open before you, to see how people are killed, feel the bombs falling next to you, Vegas Diaz said in an Aug. 31 video, speaking from a Russian hospital, where he said he was recovering from an illness before being sent back to the front. Please, please help get us out of here. The plea for help went viral. Similar stories began to surface, as Cubans posted online and called into talk shows to ask for information about family members who had also flown to Moscow to join the Russian military. The outcry eventually prompted the Cuban government to issue a striking allegation: a human trafficking network operating out of Russia was luring young Cubans to enlist to fight in Ukraine. On Sept. 8, Cuban officials said they had arrested 17 people in connection with the alleged trafficking scheme. They could face up to 30 years in prison for engaging in mercenary activity, which is against Cuban law. More From TIME But social-media posts, audio messages, and videos from recruits in Russia reviewed by TIME, along with interviews with family members and documents obtained by a Ukrainian hacker group that corroborate their identities, combine to tell a very different story. They indicate that Vegas Diaz became caught up in a large, organized operation that has openly recruited hundreds of Cuban volunteers to fight in Moscows increasingly depleted army since July. They also suggest that the trafficking allegations may be an attempt by the Cuban government, a longtime ally of Russia, to maintain its stated neutrality on the war in Ukraine, four Cuba experts and former U.S. officials tell TIME. Posts advertising a "contract with the Ministry of Defense for military service in the Russian army" began to appear on Cuban Facebook groups in June. Recruits were offered a monthly salary of 204,000 rubles, or $2,086 U.S. dollarsan almost unimaginable sum in Cuba, where the average salary is less than $50 per month. On Sept. 5, a Ukrainian hacker group posted what appeared to be a version of the six-page contract that recruits signed once they arrived in Russia, translated into flawless Spanish. It required a one-year commitment and came with benefits that included a one-time enlistment fee of 195,000 rubles (roughly $2,000) and 2 million rubles (roughly $21,000) for their families if they are killed. The contract also asks recruits to fill out a questionnaire about why they are enlisting and how they feel about military service. The terms of the contract match those publicly promoted by the Russian Defense Ministry, including the possibility of Russian citizenship for the recruit and their families per a decree signed by President Vladimir Putin last year. It is unclear how many conscripts the recruiting push yielded. The hacked emails reviewed by TIME only document the nearly 200 recruits who passed through the military office in the Russian city of Tula in July and August. Cuban human-rights groups estimates range from around 750 recruits to more than 1,000. The Miami-based Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba (FHRC) told TIME that of the 746 recruits they have tracked, at least 62 appear to be part of a highly-trained Cuban special forces outfit known as the Avispas Negras, or Black Wasps. TIME reviewed 199 passports of Cubans, aged 18 to 69, who appear to have enlisted with the Russian army since mid-July, and matched more than 20 to social-media profiles that corroborated their names, faces, and hometowns. Perhaps the clearest indication that the vast majority of these recruits went to Russia willingly, and did not act as though they were engaging in an illegal scheme, comes through their own social-media posts. On Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, many of these recruits posted photos with Russian tanks, smiled with other Cubans in their new Russian military uniforms, and boasted about sending money back home. In Facebook comments, family members openly discussed brothers, husbands, and cousins who were "in Russia' and "in the war." The discovery of the recruiting effort has complicated the delicate line Havana has tried to walk since Russias invasion of Ukraine. Cuba has been crippled by a 60-year U.S. embargo, island-wide blackouts, and a hunger crisis. It relies on Russia for food, oil, and economic investment, and recently signed a series of bilateral deals in which Moscow pledged relief for food and oil shortages and investment in the islands struggling sugar and steel industries in exchange for land leases. At the same time, Cuba cant afford to further jeopardize its relations with Western nations who have sought to isolate Russia as punishment for its war in Ukraine. The European Union is Cubas second-biggest trading partner and largest foreign investor. Ukraine, which has made it clear it believes Havana is involved in the recruiting scheme, has publicly pushed for Western nations to retaliate by "severing diplomatic relations with Cuba." In a statement Sept. 4 accusing the human trafficking network of luring Cubans to Russia, Cubas foreign ministry said the nation is not part of the war conflict in Ukraine and firmly rejects allegations that it was an accomplice in this scheme. Yet dozens of the passports reviewed by TIME had been issued very recently, making it unlikely, experts say, that the Communist government, which keeps close tabs on its citizens, would not have detected the sudden exodus. Cuba analysts reject the possibility that Havana was unaware of the recruiting push. Several recruits told family members who spoke to TIME, as well as human rights groups, that Cuban officials intentionally did not stamp their passports before they exited the country to board their flight to Moscow, in an apparent attempt to maintain deniability. The idea that the government was not involved is ludicrous. Nothing happens without their involvement, says Chris Simmons, a Cuban spycraft expert and former counterintelligence officer with the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agencya view widely shared by Cuba experts who spoke to TIME. By pledging to prosecute any "illegal" recruiting, the Cuban government gets the best of both worlds: It supports its ally," Simmons says, "and because the passports arent stamped, theres no liability of a body count, because theres no proof they ever left. Rumors of Cuban recruits appearing on the front lines in Ukraine have been swirling for months. In May, a video of soldiers with Cuban flag patches on their chests, who claimed to be working for the mercenary Wagner Group, circulated on TikTok. A few weeks later, photos of Cubans sitting in a Russian recruitment office were published by a local newspaper in the city of Ryazan. In one of those photos, a recruit appears to be signing a document that closely resembles the contract seen by TIME. In June, the ads soliciting Russian military service began appearing in Facebook groups for Cuban expats in Moscow. Most of the ads were posted by a woman under the name of Elena Shuvalova, a young Russian who spoke fluent Spanish and had previously built a reputation as a trustworthy travel agent for Cubans seeking to travel between Havana and Moscow, according to three people who told TIME they interacted with her in the past. The profile photo on the Telegram account linked to Shuvalovas number shows a young woman with dark red hair wearing tactical gear and posing next to a truck with a Cuban flag. Dozens of members of Cuban Facebook groups tagged Shuvalova in posts about enlisting in the Russian military. In an audio message TIME listened to, one recruit refers to nuestra companera Elena, who he says met them when they arrived in Russia. In one photo, she is seen smiling in the middle of a group of recent arrivals. (Shuvalova did not respond to TIMEs request for an interview.) Marilin Vinent holds up a photo of her son Dannys Castillo dressed in military fatigues in an Aug. 22 message from her son that reads in Spanish "I'm already entangled" during an interview at her home in Havana, Cuba, Friday, Sept. 8, 2023. Vinent said that her son and other Cubans traveled at the end of July to Russia after being promised work in a construction job, but that he was one of the Cubans recruited to fight for Russia in Ukraine. Ramon EspinosaAP The Facebook accounts of several men whose names and photos match the passports seen by TIME indicate that they rapidly sold ramshackle houses and left their girlfriends, wives, and young children to leave for Russia. The recruits social-media accounts underscore the hardship of their lives in Cuba, with posts begging for medicine and selling everything from cell phone parts to rationed meat on black market sites. With the money youll pay me, one Cuban man said in a video on WhatsApp addressed to Russian recruiters, if Im killed or not, at least Ill be able to help my family. Several also mentioned Cubas history of sending its citizens to fight in Russias conflicts. My father went to Angola, one young man wrote in a lengthy explanation of his decision, referencing Cubas deployment of more than 50,000 volunteers to Angola and Ethiopia from 1975 to 1991 to fight in Soviet-backed wars. All my male ancestors were in some war and I want to follow themI understand the concept of cannon fodder and I don't care. On July 1, Russian airline Aeroflot began operating direct flights from the Cuban beach town of Varadero to Moscow. In the weeks that followed, a stream of Cuban recruits began to arrive in Tula, according to the hacked documents. I now have 14 people at the selection point, Maj. Anton Valentinovich Perevozchikov, a Russian military officer in the city of Tula, wrote in an email on July 18. Passport translations are urgently needed. The flow seemed to continue for at least a month. 10 more people are coming to see me today, the officer wrote on Aug. 18. (Perevozchikov did not respond to TIMEs request for comment.) Read More: Inside the Kremlin's Year of Ukraine Propaganda. These emails and attached files were posted on Telegram on Sept. 5 by a Ukrainian activist hacker group called Cyber Resistance UA, which has also taken responsibility for the recent leaks of hacked emails from Russian politicians. The Cuban government is trying to abdicate responsibility for sending its citizens to war against Ukraine, the hacker group wrote on Telegram after the Cuban government made the human-trafficking allegation. We will 'help' the Cuban authorities to remember the situation and publish the passports of 200 mercenaries. TIME was able to match at least 20 names on the passports to social-media profiles. Some of the images include photos of their Russian migration cards, which state the reason for visiting the country as tourism. Most of the arrivals seem to have flown into Sheremetyevo International Airport in Moscow, where several reported being greeted by Cuban soldiers. In one photo viewed by TIME, recent arrivals pose for a selfie at the airport with a fellow Cuban dressed in a military uniform with the Russian flag patch, giving a thumbs-up sign. The recruits did not hide their actions, as one might expect if they were part of an undercover scheme or trafficking operation. Some changed their Facebook location to living in Moscow and posted frequent photos with landmarks and military hardware. In videos shared with Cuban media, recruits film themselves at a military base having their heads shaved by Russian soldiers. Half a dozen photos sent to family members and viewed by TIME show Cuban recruits posing in barracks or holding guns. In one, Pedro Soto Hernandez, whose passport identifies him as a 59-year-old native of Granma, poses in a Russian military uniform, flashing a peace sign with the caption por la madre patria. (For the motherland.) One recruits aunt told TIME she spoke to her nephew almost daily, and that he was still training in Russia. But after the recruits deployment to Ukraine, much of the communication seemed to cease, leading to confused and often desperate messages from family and friends back home. I need a number where I can reach my cousin, a woman named Yanisleydy Hernandez posted on July 6. He enlisted in the [Russian] Army. Several recruits told Cuban media that their phones were taken away by Russian forces once they were deployed, citing security concerns about being detected by drones. In a July 30 post circulated in Cuban groups on Facebook, an anonymous man said he was unable to reach his friend in Russia to tell him his brother had died back home. Please, cubanos, dont let yourself be deceived by these false promises, the man wrote. The situation in Cuba is bad, but going to a war is not a [better] option. The recruits are now in a kind of no-mans land. Its actually incredibly tragic, says Hugo Acha, an expert in transnational organized crime at the Center for a Secure Free Society and the research director at the FHRC. If Im a poor guy from Pinar del Rio who finished his military service, and a uniformed official comes to my house and tells me this is a way to make money, helps me get to the airport, and now this is all happening while I find myself on the front line in Ukraineestoy literalmente muerto en vida. (I am like the living dead.) Due to the Cuban governments denouncement of the effort as a human trafficking ring, it may be impossible for the recruits to return home, where they could face up to 30 years in prison for crimes including fighting as a mercenary or hostile action against a foreign state. Fighting as mercenaries for Russia would also bar them from seeking asylum or legal status in many countries, including the United States, according to Acha. And by not stamping the passports of recruits who left for Russia, the state has branded them as having illegally left the country. Cubas government understands perfectly that Putin is a pariah in the international community, and that it could suffer enormous consequences if it were directly involved with the [war] being waged by Putin in Ukraine, says Vladimir Rouvinski, an expert on Russia-Latin America relations at the Instituto Colombiano de Estudios Superiores de Incolda in Cali, Colombia. But Cuba cannot afford to alienate Russia, which has drawn closer to its former Cold War ally since the invasion of Ukraine. The apparent recruitment scheme unfolded in the wake of several high-level visits between senior officials in Havana and Moscow, which resulted in more than a dozen economic deals in which Cuba agreed to open the country to Russian banks and investors. Cuba has declined to vote on U.N. resolutions condemning the invasion of Ukraine. In a visit to Moscow in May, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel assured Russia of "Cuba's unconditional support." Read More: Congress is Grappling With the Wrong Questions on Ukraine. But Cuban officials have made contradictory statements about the mercenaries' involvement. On Sept. 14, Cuba's ambassador in Moscow said his government did not oppose the participation of its citizens in Russias war in Ukraine as long as it's "legal." A few hours later, Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez said the nation prohibits "the participation of Cuban citizens in conflicts of any sort and against mercenarism." Cuba watchers have questioned whether the state could have a financial stake in hundreds of its citizens serving in the Russian military. "Renting" Cuban citizens to work abroad has been a well-documented and lucrative venture for the cash-strapped Cuban government, which is paid up to $3,600 per month for providing doctors in countries like Brazil and Qatar, and made $1,000 per month for each soldier it sent to fight in Angola in the 1980s. In Washington, the State Department has said it is assessing the reports of Cuban recruits fighting in Ukraine. We are deeply concerned that young Cubans may have been deceived and recruited to fight for Russia in its brutal full-scale invasion of Ukraine, and we continue to monitor this situation closely, a spokesman said in a statement. Ukraine has made clear it does not believe the Cuban governments denial of knowledge of the mercenary recruitment, and has called on the E.U. to take action. The Cuban communist regime pretends that it has nothing to do with this human trafficking. In reality, this totalitarian regime is on the side of the aggressor, Oleksandr Merezhko, who heads the foreign affairs committee in Ukraine's parliament, posted on Twitter. Ukrainian soldiers themselves sent a message directly addressing the Cuban recruits they could soon be encountering on the battlefield. "Cubans, do not let yourselves be deceived as in the times of the Soviet Union," one said in a video posted on Telegram and subtitled in Spanish, standing with two dozen others holding a Ukrainian flag. "You can be sure that [you] will meet your own death in this place....It is better to die with dignity for the freedom of Cuba than to die as an invader of the Ukrainian land." Vegas Diaz insisted he was ready to heed that warning. In the viral YouTube interview that first publicized the mercenary recruitment effort, he and his friend say that when they realized they were being sent to fight at the front, they asked to go back to Cuba and were denied. There are dead Cubans, there are missing Cubans, and this is not going to end until the war is over, Vegas Diaz said. We know that Cuba is aware and our advice to Cubans is not to come here. This is the craziest thing. Crazy. Don't do it." Write to Vera Bergengruen at vera.bergengruen@time.com. Russia is using elite paratroopers as regular infantry, the UK MOD said. The VDV force isn't at full strength and is being used to help overstretched Russian lines, it said. The VDV's hierarchy is likely unhappy with the situation, it added. Russia is using elite paratroopers as regular infantry to compensate for overstretched forces in Ukraine, even though the units likely aren't even at full strength, according to UK intelligence. The UK Ministry of Defence said in an intelligence update on Monday that at least five regiments of Russia's elite parachute force, the VDV, "are likely now concentrated within several kilometers of the frontline village of Robotyne." At full strength, this would be about 10,000 paratroopers, the MOD said. "However, almost all units are highly likely dramatically under strength," it said. The situation is one that is unlikely to please the elite force's hierarchy, it added. The VDV forces have likely reinforced Russia's 58th Combined Arms Army, part of Russia's ground forces, according to the UK MOD, with the situation coming about as Russia's military finds itself overstretched. "Throughout the war Russian commanders have attempted to regenerate the airborne forces as a highly mobile, striking force for offensive operations. Once again, they are being used as line infantry to augment over-stretched ground forces," the MOD said. Experts at the Washington DC-based think tank the Institute for the Study of War previously said that Russia was calling up VDV troops for defensive efforts, which suggested that "Russian forces may be using relatively elite units to reinforce critical sectors of the frontline." However, the ISW said that this will hinder its efforts to use these troops at a later date when it wants to take more offensive action, which is something it has used these troops for in the past. The VDV has experienced huge losses in Ukraine since Russia began its full-scale invasion in February 2022. The UK MOD said in August that at least 50% of the 30,000 Russian paratroopers who were deployed to Ukraine "have been killed or wounded" since the start of the full-scale invasion. Their performance in Ukraine has also had some experts and Russian media figures questioning their elite status, Insider reported back in February. Read the original article on Business Insider Explosions rocked Khmelnytskyi Oblast during an air raid on the night of 18 September this was air defence responding to the attack, but the falling missile wreckage damaged houses, business premises and railway tracks. Source: Khmelnytskyi Oblast Military Administration (OMA), citing Serhii Tiurin, First Deputy Head of Khmelnytskyi OMA Quote from Tiurin: "Explosions rang out in the oblast. Air defence is responding". Details: He promised to provide details later. Updated at 09:33: Later, Tiurin reported that the blast wave had damaged roofs and windows in several residential buildings due to the missiles' impact. Furthermore, wreckage fell and two explosions occurred at a production facility. The State Emergency Service of Ukraine contained the blaze. The wreckage also damaged a railway track. Repair work is underway. Background: On the night of 17-18 September, the Ukrainian Air Force reported that the Russians had fired a group of missiles on Ukraine. An air-raid warning was issued in all oblasts of the country. 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! Fire in Sevastopol after explosions on the night of September 13 Photos of Russias Rostov-on-Don submarine, attacked by the Ukrainian Armed Forces in Sevastopol on Sept. 13, published by the Conflict Intelligence Team (CIT) project on its Telegram channel on Sept. 18, show that the vessel took two direct hits and is likely unusable for the rest of the war. The first of the hits, likely by Storm Shadow cruise missiles, targeted the upper bow of the submarine, while the second one hit the right side near the conning tower. Unlike the first hit, the second was not visible on satellite imagery. Norwegian independent naval analyst Thor Are Iversen believes that both hits penetrated the submarine's solid hull. As a result, the torpedo and living compartments were damaged, as well as possibly auxiliary rooms and batteries. Conflict Intelligence Team/Telegram Conflict Intelligence Team/Telegram It is unclear from the images how much of the other compartments were burned out, depending on whether the hatches between them were closed. Damages of this scale likely take the submarine out of service in the Russian fleet for the remainder of the war. Read also: SBU chief Malyuk on how Crimean Bridge was attacked twice Strong explosions in Sevastopol were reported on the morning of Sept. 13, followed by the Russian Defense Ministry's announcement of an overnight missile and maritime drone attack on a "group of Black Sea Fleet ships in transit" and a Sevastopol shipyard. A Kilo-class submarine, the Rostov-on-Don and a Ropucha-class landing ship, the Minsk, which were undergoing repairs in a dry dock in the shipyard, were damaged, the Russian ministry said. The Commander of the Ukrainian Air Force, Lt. Gen. Mykola Oleshchuk, posted a photo of the explosions in Sevastopol on his Telegram channel and expressed his gratitude to the pilots involved for their "excellent combat work." Sources in the Ukrainian military said the two vessels were severely damaged in the attack. 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 Photos that began to circulate on social media today purportedly show the significant damage sustained by a Russian Navy Kilo class diesel-electric attack submarine after a reported Ukrainian cruise missile strike last week. The Kilo class boat, together with a Ropucha class landing ship, had been in dry dock in the Black Sea port of Sevastopol, in Russian-occupied Crimea, when it came under attack in the early hour of September 13, as you can read about in The War Zones previous reporting on this incident . One of two photos of the damage to the Improved Kilo class submarine apparently first published by the Conflict Intelligence Team. CIT via X https://www.twitter.com/CITeam_en/status/1703736274484334701?s=20 The photos, which apparently were first published by the Conflict Intelligence Team (CIT), an independent investigative organization, show what appears to be a direct hit to the bow, leaving a gaping hole. Aft of the sail, on the starboard side, is another major impact, which appears to have blown part of the hull out, perhaps as the result of a secondary explosion. Another possible explanation could be the detonation of a dual 'BROACH' warhead, like that carried by the Storm Shadow and/or SCALP-EG cruise missiles that are widely reported to have been used in the attack. https://www.twitter.com/Osinttechnical/status/1701802384270217394?s=20 Multiple accounts including from the U.K. Ministry of Defense indicate that the submarine in question is the Rostov-on-Don (B-237), an Improved Kilo boat, from the Project 636.3 class, which is capable of launching Kalibr land attack cruise missiles , of the type widely used against targets in Ukraine. This submarine entered service in 2014 and is one of four of its type with the Black Sea Fleet. https://www.twitter.com/DefenceHQ/status/1702561936179630440?s=20 Regardless, the degree of damage sustained by the submarine suggests that it will have to be written off altogether. In the very best-case scenario, it will require a rebuild, salvaging whatever components they can, which will put it out of action for years. Furthermore, any such repairs would almost certainly have to be undertaken outside of the Black Sea, which would be a serious logistic endeavor in itself. Two different authorities on submarine warfare, undersea warfare analyst H. I. Sutton and former U.S. Navy submariner Aaron Amick, both tweeted today that they consider the Improved Kilo class boat damaged beyond repair. https://www.twitter.com/CovertShores/status/1703769756736647453?s=20 https://www.twitter.com/SubBrief/status/1703771172196827203?s=20 Certainly, the photos bring into serious question official Russian accounts that the submarine (together with the landing ship) will be repaired and returned to action. Ukrainian officials, for their part, had already claimed that there was a high probability they are not subject to restoration. https://www.twitter.com/Saturnax1/status/1701860897566659050?s=20 Soon after the attack, satellite imagery from Sevastopol had also begun to reveal the very severe damage meted out to the submarine and the landing ship. Not only did the vessels themselves appear to be partly burned out, but the viability of the entire dry dock complex in which they were located looked questionable. https://www.twitter.com/war_monitor_ua/status/1701998019577631170?s=20 https://www.twitter.com/BlackSky_Inc/status/1701994911887679598?s=20 The Russian Ministry of Defense had claimed that the attack involved 10 missiles and three unmanned surface vessels (USVs), or drone boats, with seven of those missiles being claimed as shot down. There have been claims that the missiles used were air-launched Storm Shadow and/or SCALP-EG standoff missiles that can be launched by Ukrainian Air Force Su-24 Fencer strike/reconnaissance aircraft. A French-supplied SCALP-EG cruise missile under the wing of a Ukrainian Su-24 jet. Ukrainian Ministry of Defense screencap In a tweet soon after the attack, the chief of the Ukrainian Air Force, Mykola Oleshchuk singled out his pilots for excellent combat work, pointing again to the likelihood of their involvement. https://www.twitter.com/JimmySecUK/status/1701866204829200882?s=20 As we pointed out before , the extent of this attack on the port of Sevastopol which has repeatedly been targeted by Ukraine since the Kremlin launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine could have serious ramifications, perhaps even prompting a portion of the Black Sea Fleet to be relocated or to make reduced use of the facilities there. Then there is the question of Sevastopols ability to undertake maintenance and repairs of Black Sea Fleet vessels, at least until the dry docks at the Sevmorzavod facility that contains the submarine and landing ship can be returned to regular use. According to a report from Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Black Sea naval capabilities are likely seriously curtailed for the foreseeable future, as a result of infrastructure damage, with the problem exacerbated by there being no similar facilities for major repair works on naval ships elsewhere in the Black Sea. Seen in happier times, the Russian Navy Improved Kilo class submarine Rostov-on-Don sails through the Bosphorus Strait on the way to the Black Sea, on February 13, 2022. Photo by OZAN KOSE/AFP via Getty Images Even the port of Novorossiysk, further to the east, on the coast of mainland Russia, lacks facilities for in-depth maintenance of submarines, for example. Floating docks are available elsewhere in Crimea, but they are also unable to support more extensive repair work. While the specific strike will have an impact on [Black Sea Fleet] operations, the larger impact is cumulative, Dmitry Gorenburg, from the Washington-based Center for Naval Analyses think-tank told Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty Overall, I see Russias control over the Black Sea slipping gradually. On the other hand, its hard to gauge the actual extent of the damage to the dry docks themselves. It could be the case that the major work will involve removing the hulks of the submarine and landing ship, after which only minor repairs might be needed. Even this, however, could prove to be a protracted job and would, in turn, have an impact on the overall availability of the Black Sea Fleets larger vessels. This also assumes that the dry docks don't just get struck again. In the near term, one of the effects of the September 13 attack could well be the bolstering of ground-based air defenses around the port, as well as additional measures to deal with USVs , which have been repeatedly used against the facility as well as Black Sea Fleet warships more generally. This may become more challenging than it sounds though as Ukraine is degrading Russia's high-end air defenses on the peninsula using similar long-range strikes. These appear targeted at blinding early warning and engagement opportunities for the cruise missiles and drones as they approach, enhancing their overall survivability. They could also allow for Ukrainian Su-24s to get closer to the peninsula for launches of SCALP-EG and Storm Shadows over the northwestern Black Sea. Clearly, Ukraine expects to launch further attacks on Sevastopol, which may very well now also include strikes by the land attack version of the domestically produced Neptune anti-ship missile , a significant development that you can read more about here . Kyiv has now modified Neptune anti-ship missiles to strike ground targets. Ukraine Ministry of Defense There will be more drones, more attacks, and fewer Russian ships. Thats for sure, Ukraines Digital Transformation Minister Mykhaylo Fedorov told Reuters last week. Exactly what form those attacks will take remains unclear, but there is no doubt, by now, that Russian warships are vulnerable simply sitting in port in Sevastopol. And with the deep maintenance and repair facilities at that location out of action, for the time being, any further damage to vessels will only compound the Russian Navys problems. Contact the author: thomas@thedrive.com Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 Some of the best and most well-trained units of the Russian army have been defeated and lost combat effectiveness on the Bakhmut front. Nevertheless, the Russians do not give up their attempts to take back the positions they have lost. Source: Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander of the Ground Forces of Ukraine, cited by Military Media Center Details: Syrskyi stated that in general, the situation remains complicated on the Eastern front. The Russians keep trying to resume offensive actions on the Kupiansk and Lyman fronts and are actively preparing for them. Heavy fighting is ongoing near the city of Bakhmut. After the Russians lost control over the settlements of Andriivka and Klishchiivka last week, they have been conducting numerous counterattacks from different fronts, trying to take back the positions they lost but to no avail. In reality, these seemingly small settlements were important elements of the defence line of the Russians, which lies through Bakhmut to the settlement of Horlivka. As a result of successful actions by the Ukrainian forces, the line of defence, which the Russians were trying to close by deploying all the reserves they had, was breached, Syrskyi reported. Specifically, some of the best and most well-trained units of the Russian army have been defeated and lost combat effectiveness on the Bakhmut front: among them are the 72nd Separate Motorised Rifle Brigade, the 31st and the 83rd separate air assault brigades. Quote: "Of course, we continue advancing. This is merely another step towards the complete liberation of our territories." 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 evening of 18 September, the Russian forces struck the central part of the city of Kharkiv with missiles. Source: Ihor Terekhov, Mayor of Kharkiv; Ukraines Air Force on Telegram; Oleh Syniehubov, Head of Kharkiv Oblast Military Administration Quote: "Kharkiv is again under fire from Russian missiles. According to preliminary information, the central part of the city is under attack." Details: The head of the Kharkiv Oblast Military Administration called on the city residents to remain in shelters; the Air Force previously reported on the threat of the use of ballistic weapons in Kharkiv Oblast. Updated at 23:33: Terekhov reported that an industrial area of the Kholodnohirsky district of the city was hit. 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! Russia's representative at the UN International Court of Justice has refused to acknowledge statements made by its officials and by President Vladimir Putin since February 2022 that Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in order to combat an alleged "genocide" in Donbas. Source: European Pravda with reference to the argument presented by the leader of Moscows legal team in the Court, Ambassador Gennady Kuzmin Details: On 18 September, a hearing in the case of Ukraine vs Russia began in The Hague, in which Ukraine is arguing that Russia abused the provisions of the Genocide Convention to launch an unjustified military invasion. To this end, the Ukrainian side cited a number of statements made by Russian officials, including President Vladimir Putin, Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, and Russias ambassadors to the UN and the EU. Gennady Kuzmin, the leader of Moscows legal team, denied that these were the Russian Federations intentions, insisting that Russia started the war "under Article 51 of the UN Charter on self-defence, and this has nothing to do with the Genocide Convention". "Ukraine says that Russia used the word 'genocide' to describe actions of the Ukrainian authorities. But statements cannot be a violation," he added. At the same time, the Russian diplomat continued to insist on [the veracity of] falsified data about Ukraine's supposed struggle against the "peoples of Donbas" and devoted a significant part of his speech to proving that "Nazism" is deeply rooted in Ukraine. "The Nazis in Ukraine are descended from the Organisation of Ukrainian Nationalists [a Ukrainian nationalist organisation established in Vienna in 1929 ed.], a Nazi collaborator," Kuzmin said, adding that, in Russia's view, there are "three fathers of Ukrainian Nazism" Stepan Bandera, Roman Shukhevych and Andrii Melnyk. Interestingly, another Ukrainian politician whom the Russian diplomat publicly accused of supporting Nazism was the current President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy. "Zelenskyy named a brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Edelweiss after the Nazi Edelweiss," Kuzmin explained. Russia is demanding that the court throw out Ukraines complaint as inadmissible. 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! By Sabine Siebold and Janis Laizans ON BOARD THE USS MESA VERDE IN THE BALTIC SEA (Reuters) - Russia's war in Ukraine has injected a dose of grim realism into an annual NATO naval drill in the northern Baltic Sea as Western forces practice for the first time how to respond to any Russian strike on the region. The two-week Northern Coasts exercise is unfolding in seas off Latvia and Estonia, NATO members that border Russia to the east and have felt more exposed to threats from their former Soviet master since Russian forces invaded Ukraine last year. The drills kicked off on Sept. 9 and involve some 30 ships and over 3,000 personnel from all NATO countries in the Baltic region plus soon-to-be member Sweden and non-Baltic allies the U.S., Canada, the Netherlands, Belgium and France. They are practicing amphibious operations and strikes from sea to land, and securing routes through the Baltic. German Rear Admiral and Exercise Director Stephan Haisch said Russia's presence in the Baltic Sea, including frigates and an intelligence-collecting vessel, was normal and expected, but that this year's Northern Coasts drills had moved away from artificial scenarios towards reality. The U.S. Navy's 200-metre (660-foot) Mesa Verde is taking part, designed to transport and land some 800 Marines in an amphibious assault. "For many years we had a kind of artificial scenario. Right now, we are a bit closer to the realistic meaning, the geography and the partners and the opponent. So, this is more realistic than it was before," Haisch said aboard the Mesa Verde. Captain Maris Polencs, Latvia's naval commander, said it had a need to develop future sea mining and de-mining capabilities in light of Russia's war in Ukraine. "We're coming to see mines as an actual threat in the Baltic Sea if a similar conflict arises in this region," Polencs said. It is the first exercise of this size that the German navy, the biggest Western navy in the Baltic, has commanded from its new maritime operations headquarters in Rostock, at the southwestern end of the Baltic. Germany is prepared to provide the facility to NATO to oversee alliance operations in the Baltic in case of a conflict with Russia. Finland joined NATO earlier this year and Sweden's entry bid is expected to be approved soon, both moves ditching generations of non-alignment in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This has radically altered the strategic posture along the Baltic Sea, where much of the coast had belonged to neutral states since Napoleonic times. Now, apart from Russia's own small sections of Baltic coast, mainly the enclave of Kaliningrad sandwiched between Poland and Lithuania, the entire shoreline will soon be NATO territory. Next year, NATO will hold its largest collective defence drills since the Cold War ended in 1990, with over 40,000 troops set to take part in the exercise Steadfast Defender in Germany, Poland and the three Baltic republics. (Writing by Sabine Siebold and Riham Alkousaa) Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg died on September 18, 2020, due to complications from cancer. She was a left-leaning Associate Justice on the Supreme Court for nearly three decades and a pop culture icon. Here's how she became one of the most important legal influences of her time. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg died on September 18, 2020, due to complications from cancer. She was 87. The Supreme Court confirmed her death in a statement at the time, in which Chief Justice John Roberts described Ginsburg as a "jurist of historic nature" and he and his colleagues at the Supreme Court "have lost a cherished colleague." "Today we mourn, but with confidence that future generations will remember Ruth Bader Ginsburg as we knew her a tireless and resolute champion of justice," Roberts continued. She spent decades as a trailblazer in gender equality law before she became an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court and a pop culture icon. She was on the nation's highest court for nearly 30 years, ever since she took her oath on August 10, 1993. Here's how the daughter of an immigrant in the fur business became one of the most important legal influences of her time. Joan Ruth Bader was born in 1933 in Brooklyn. Jacquelyn Martin/AP She became known by her middle name because there were too many "Joans" in her elementary school. Source: Achievement, "My Own Words" Ruth's father, who was born in Russia and never attended high school, worked in fur. Ruth Bader Ginsburg, in 1977 Lynn Gilbert/Wikimedia Commons Her mother, Celia, was highly intellectual but wasn't able to attend college or pursue her own career. Source: Achievement Celia took Ruth to the library every week and encouraged a love of education in her daughter. Win McNamee/Getty Images But, after struggling with cancer for years, Celia died before Ruth graduated from high school. Source: Achievement She attended Cornell University and graduated in 1954 at the top of her class. Lewis Liu/Shutterstock Source: Oyez A month later, she married her classmate Martin Ginsburg, whom she had met on a blind date her freshman year. Martin Ginsburg in 1993. Dennis Cook/AP She put her career on hold for several years as she gave birth to her first child, Jane. Source: Oyez In 1956, two years after graduating college, Ginsburg enrolled at Harvard Law School, where Martin was also a student. Steven Senne/AP She was one of just nine women in the class of more than 500. Source: Achievement The law dean reportedly invited the nine female students in the class to dinner and asked, "How do you justify taking a spot from a qualified man?" Jose Luis Magana/AP Ginsburg said she gave "the answer he expected": "My husband is a second-year law student, and it's important for a woman to understand her husband's work." Source:The New York Times Meanwhile, Ginsburg had won a seat on the Harvard Law Review. Steven Senne/AP She was also caring for her young baby and for Martin after he was diagnosed with testicular cancer even attending his classes and writing his papers. Source: Achievement Martin eventually recovered and joined a law firm in New York City. C.J. Gunther/AP Ginsburg transferred to Columbia Law School, earning a seat on their law review and graduating tied for first in the class in 1959. Source: Achievement Despite that stellar academic record, Ginsburg had issues finding a job. Stephan Savoia/AP Many law firms had signs for applicants that read, "Men Only." Her Jewish background also didn't help. Source:The New York Times So, Ginsburg didn't go through law firms. Brendan Smialowski/Getty Images She accepted a courtship with the US District Court for the Southern District of New York and, after two years, began working at Columbia Law's Project on International Procedure. Source: Achievement Ginsburg quickly became an associate director of the Project on International Procedure. Mary Altaffer/AP One of her early projects was studying the Swedish legal system; she also taught herself Swedish. Source: Achievement Ginsburg later said the private sector's rejection was ultimately beneficial. The Notorious RBG. Allison Shelley/Getty Images Otherwise, she wouldn't have gotten these unique opportunities in academia and the government. Source:The New York Times She became a law professor at Rutgers University in 1963, where she continued to study Swedish law. Spencer Platt/Getty Images Through her studies of Sweden, she became more interested in gender equality issues. Source: Achievement Ginsburg founded The Women's Rights Law Reporter, the first American law journal on gender equality issues, in 1970. Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images She then wrote the first textbook on sex discrimination law in 1974. Source: Achievement At that time, gender issues were seen as unimportant, and studying them could hamper a woman's career. Paul Morigi/Getty Images for ELLE "The concern was that if a woman was doing gender equality, her chances of making it to tenure in the law school were diminished," Ginsburg told The New York Times in 2015. "It was considered frivolous." Source: The New York Times But the focus certainly didn't hamper her career. Ginsburg joined the faculty at Columbia University Law School in 1972. Pablo Martinez Monsivais/Getty Images Source: Achievement And, through her know-how in gender equality law, she founded the ACLUs Womens Rights Project and began arguing cases on discrimination before the US Supreme Court. Jacquelyn Martin/AP Source: Achievement, Oyez One landmark case Ginsburg argued before the Supreme Court involved a county in Missouri that allowed women to opt out of jury duty on request. Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images That meant women comprised less than 15% of jurors in that county. Ginsburg argued that this violated the Sixth Amendment, and also implied that this meant that women jurors were less valuable than male opinions. Her arguments led to a vote in her favor by 8-1. Source: Justia In 1980, Ginsburg was appointed to the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, where she served for 13 years. J. Scott Applewhite/AP Her husband, Martin, followed her to DC, becoming a professor at Georgetown University Law Center. Source: Achievement In 1993, President Bill Clinton appointed Ginsburg as an associate justice on the Supreme Court. Dennis Cook/AP She was the second woman to serve and the first Jewish woman. Source: Achievement Ginsburg was originally selected for being a moderate and a consensus builder, but she's now one of the most left-leaning justices on the court. Steven Senne/AP Source:FiveThirtyEight, LA Times Some of Ginsburg's landmark opinions as a justice included her opinion written on the insider trading case of United States v. O'Hagan and male-only admissions at the Virginia Military Institute. Elise Amendola/AP Source: Justia, Justia Ginsburg's two children grew and found their own paths in adulthood. Doug Mills/AP Her older child, Jane, is a law professor at Columbia and her younger one, James, owns a record label in Chicago. Source: Achievement Her husband, who Ginsburg called her "biggest booster" and "an extraordinary man," died in 2010. Ed Bailey/AP Source: The New York Times By 2014, at which point she was in her early 80s, Ginsburg had become a pop culture icon taking on the nickname Notorious R.B.G. A young child dressed up as R.B.G. Jacquelyn Martin/AP "People really find her politics powerful," Shana Knizhnik, the creator of the Notorious RGB blog, said. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, 85, speaks on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC in March. Allison Shelley/Getty "She's standing up to the conservative majority, who also happen to be men," Knizhnik continued. "She is an image of feminist rebellion, while still being a demure, quiet person in real life." Source: Business Insider Ginsburg's policies aren't the only thing her devotees admire her for they even try to follow her workouts, which are one hour long and involve push-ups, planks, and squats. Elana Lyn Gross Source: Business Insider When Ginsburg had colon cancer in 1999 and pancreatic cancer in 2009, she still barely missed any days on the bench. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images Source: Achievement At 85, people are predicted when Ginsburg would retire. Liaison/Getty But she indicated at the time that she had no plans to leave her post: "As long as I can do the job full steam, I will be here." Source: Washington Examiner Ginsburg died on September 18, 2020, due to complications from metastatic pancreas cancer. She was 87. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg in October 2019. Erin Clark for The Boston Globe via Getty Ginsburg had several types of cancer over the last 20 years. She had been hospitalized several times in 2020 and was undergoing treatment for metastatic pancreas cancer. She was public about her medical condition, though Supreme Court justices are not required to share details about their health. Read the original article on Business Insider Delta Airlines is bringing back daily non-stop flights to Detroit out of Sacramento next summer. Sacramento International Airport posted to X, formerly known at Twitter, on Sept. 16 announcing that direct flights will start on July 8, 2024. Starting July 8, 2024, @delta is launching nonstop flights from Sac to Detroit! Detroit is a city packed with: Music History Art & Culture Natural Beauty Delicious Food Automotive Legends Book now with Delta, and let the adventures begin! pic.twitter.com/sdgbKvkMcy Sacramento International Airport (SMF) (@FlySMF) September 16, 2023 The trip from Sacramento to the Detroit Metro Airport takes roughly 4 hours and 24 minutes. Flights can be booked now through the Delta Airlines website. The first available flight leaving Sacramento is on Monday, July 8 at 11:05 p.m. and starts at $558 for a round-trip ticket. Sacramento to Detroit In 2018, Delta Airlines had first announced the direct flights from Sacramento airport, but then the flights were suspended, according to SMF. Detroit is the 45th location that Sacramentans can directly fly to from Sacramento airport, according to the airport website. 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. SAN DIEGO Coming out of the peak season for apartment renting, San Diego became the most competitive rental market in Southern California for the first time in years, according to a new report. The report, conducted by the real estate website RentCafe, analyzed data including vacancy rates and number of renters that applied for the same apartment from over 130 markets across the country to determine the nations hottest renting spots from April to June of this year. Nationwide, competitiveness eased between last years peak season and this years, with more than half of the markets analyzed seeing a cooldown. According to the report, this trend is driven by an increase in new apartments and the lingering economic effects from the pandemic. San Diego homeowners are the least likely to sell homes at loss in the nation: study Meanwhile, San Diegos competitiveness in the rental market increased, surpassing Orange County for the first time in two years. The two areas ranked 18th and 19th respectively as the busiest markets this year out of all metros analyzed. According to the report, the increase in competition is largely due to the severe shortage of housing amid strong population growth in the metro. In San Diego, about 96% of units are occupied, leaving about 17 apartment-seekers to compete for the same available rental. On average, these available units are only on the market for a little more than a month about 33 days before it becomes occupied. That deficit is in part the result of a limited supply of land for new development, which hinders new construction. Out of the all the units occupied during the peak season this year, the report found that only about 0.2% were newly built. In order to meet the housing need, it is estimated that the city alone would need to build about 108,000 new units by 2029. Orange County on the other hand saw a small uptick in newly built constructions between 2022 and 2023s peak season, but it was not enough to expand options for renters in the area. The county has a roughly 95.7% occupancy rate, prompting about 61% of renters stayed put during the peak rental season. For those available rentals, it takes about 40 days for the vacancy to be filled, the report found, with 13 prospective renters vying for the same unit. Outside Southern California, Miami came out of the summer months as the most competitive rental market in the nation this year. Markets in the Midwest were also among the hottest places for apartment-seekers with three in this part of the country making the top five nationally. Milwaukee, WI, for instance, jumped from seventh to second place in terms of rental competitiveness since the start of the peak rental season. A full list of the most competitive rental markets during this years peak season can be found below. Screenshot of graph showing most competitive rental markets from RentCafe study. Supreme Court could hear court case to reshape rules around homeless camp bans To compile the report, RentCafes research team analyzed Yardi Systems apartment data across 139 rental markets in the U.S. The data came directly from market-rate large-scale multifamily properties of at least 50 units, according to the website. Fully affordable multifamily properties were excluded from the analysis. The markets were then ranked by their market competition score, which was calculated based on five metrics: apartment occupancy rate, average total days vacant, prospective renters per vacant unit; renewal lease rate, and share of new apartments completed during the same timeframe and their averages for April to June. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com. San Francisco used to be seen as a place for artists and innovators to achieve the California dream. Although the pastel-colored homes still sit on the citys hills and the fog continues to roll in each day, the city is in deep turmoil. Jordan Hollan and her husband had high hopes when they moved to the city in 2019 after graduating from Brigham Young University in Provo, but their perspective on the Bay Area changed quickly. Their move was quickly followed by the pandemic, which tested the densely populated city and exacerbated homelessness as well as the fentanyl crisis. Its a crazy reality, Hollan said. She shared a viral news story from December 2022 that is the worst nightmare for every parent: A 10-month-old child accidentally ingested fentanyl at a park in the Marina District, a once-safe and touristy spot in the city. The child was with his nanny, who noticed the child turning blue and began performing CPR before the first responders administered Narcan, the over-the-counter treatment for an opioid overdose. How does this happen in a playground? Hollan said. We dont live in the Tenderloin, the area infamous for drugs, homelessness and crime. Usually, she said, they feel removed from the fentanyl crisis when going to preschool, the library and the parks but this time, it was a little bit too close to home. As a mom of a preschooler, the news scared her, while mothers around her, and online, discussed whether they should carry Narcan in their diaper bags or purses. San Francisco has, in recent years, put the ideals of progressive policies over commonsense solutions and community safety, some residents say. But city residents are trying to find solutions by electing more moderate leaders and pushing back against extreme policies. Still, structural issues may stand in their way. Moderates replace progressives in San Francisco More than 2,400 people in San Francisco have lost their lives to overdoses in the last three years. In April, Gov. Gavin Newsom responded to the crisis in San Francisco by deploying the California National Guard and the California Highway Patrol to the city to help combat the fentanyl crisis. In August, he doubled the number of state police officers within the city. But the problem of deadly drugs mixed with rising homelessness and crime is a concoction that state police officers dont have the cure for. Hollan said many people, especially those with children younger than the age of 7, have left the city. Part of that had to do with extended school closures, but that wasnt the only reason. Families just dont want to stay here. Theyll have one kid and once they have that second, they try and leave, she told me over the phone. The city feels dystopian now, said Mary Theroux, the chair and CEO of the Independent Institute, an American libertarian think tank based in Oakland quite the opposite of the California dream. Its almost accepted that we have thousands of people living in the streets in conditions that we would have deplored in the Third World 20 years ago, she said. You expect that if youre going to park your car, its going to get broken into. If youre a retailer, youre going to get shoplifted every day. Theroux, who is a member of the San Francisco Salvation Army advisory board, said that San Francisco is no longer the kind of community people want to live in, so we need solutions. She isnt the only one. San Francisco residents have responded to the crisis by looking for lawmakers to implement moderate policies over progressive ones a trend that has infiltrated many deeply blue cities like New York and Chicago. Steven Buss, a former software engineer and the co-founder of GrowSF, a centrist advocacy group, said that he sees the change. Last year ... we recalled a far-left district attorney and they were replaced by a moderate. In November, we replaced a far-left supervisor with a moderate supervisor. Buss is talking about District Attorney Chesa Boudin being replaced by Brooke Jenkins, a former assistant district attorney who worked for progressive Boudin but later turned on him, and Gordon Mar being unseated by anti-crime advocate Joel Engardio on the board of supervisors. Buss is a lifelong Democrat but he said what San Franciscans are engaging in arent partisan issues but basic civil society issues. San Francisco is not a strong mayor city anymore More than 70% of residents say they want more policing, he said. And residents like Hollan are a part of that majority. She said she wishes San Fransisco would elect a mayor like Rudy Giuliani, whose strict policies helped clean New York up, but she knows the city would never do that because that would go against the founding principles of acceptance. San Francisco hasnt had a Republican mayor since the 60s. I think that we have gone so far on the edge of trying to make sure that we really want to make it a place for everyone that now its only a place for the homeless or the drug dealers because other people dont want to live here, she said. While Mayor London Breed was propelled into city government by an ideologically diverse coalition of voters, she is no Giuliani. But that doesnt mean San Fransiscos problems are within her control. San Francisco used to be a strong mayor city under Willie Brown during the late 90s and early 2000s, Buss explained. But its been under two decades of assault by the board of supervisors who have been whittling away the power of the executive, said Buss. Even right now, the mayor cannot hire a new police chief she literally no longer has the power to do that. The mayor should be in charge of the police. But instead, we have an unelected commission of activists who dont believe in policing, theyre in charge of the police department, said Buss, adding that this system is at the heart of many issues. The San Francisco Police Commission, referred to by Buss, passed a policy prohibiting officers from pulling over drivers for minor traffic violations and limiting them from asking the driver questions. Commissions govern everything from policing to homelessness. There are four commissions looking over the unhoused Our City, Our Home Oversight Commission, Local Homelessness Coordinating Board, Shelter Grievance Advisory Committee, and, the newest one, the Homelessness Oversight Commission, which Breed opposed Breed previously said she doesnt believe (a new commission) would improve efficiency or ensure accountability, but would create more bureaucracy. The problem of homelessness taints Newsoms image Breeds administration made an effort to clean up encampments in the city in hopes of making the city safer. However, the cleanup efforts were met with a federal lawsuit from the Coalition of Homelessness in September 2021. Breed and city Attorney David Chiu entered a legal battle against homeless activists, who argued that the city was sweeping encampments without providing permanent housing. But the data released by the citys Department of Emergency Management tells a different story 54% of people experiencing homelessness, or 1,278 individuals, declined offers for shelter. Weve also found that 153 had some form of shelter or housing, but were still living in encampments, said Francis Zamora from the Emergency Management Department. On Aug. 23, Breed joined roughly 200 San Franciscans gathered outside the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in hopes of urging the court to lift the temporary ban on clearing encampments. The homeless coalition has held San Francisco hostage for decades. It is time for their reign to end, Breed declared. Some people chanted Save our streets. Others rallied to Stop the sweeps, including Dean Preston, a progressive member of the board of supervisors, and Jennifer Friedenbach, executive director of the Coalition on Homelessness and on one of the commissions for homelessness, who protested in favor of harm reduction and open air drug use. For decades, local municipalities have used police to manage the mounting humanitarian crisis that is mass homelessness in an America of rapidly expanding inequality and housing instability. This hasnt worked, said Friedenbach in an opinion piece for a local newspaper. We believe it is time for San Francisco to shift gears and stop holding onto failed strategies. Newsom, who was the major of the city more than a decade ago, also chimed in, pointing to the Golden States record investment of $15.3 billion on homelessness. But federal courts block local efforts to clear street encampments even when housing and services are offered, he said. Courts must also be held accountable. Enough is enough. But the court rejected San Franciscos request to modify the ban on sweeping the streets on Sept. 6. On homelessness, @ElonMusk has touched on a key issue. California has made record investments $15.3 bil. But federal courts block local efforts to clear street encampments even when housing and services are offered. Courts must also be held accountable. Enough is enough. Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) August 29, 2023 Newsom is aware of the responsibility he has towards San Fransisco, which, in some ways, represents California as a whole. And this could affect his aspirations of reaching the White House one day. I am mindful of the critics and Im one of them that we can be doing more and better in myriad areas, he told Politico in August. Lawlessness breeds more lawlessness San Fransiscos dual nature is visible to anyone. You can be somewhere at the top of the hill and see a beautiful city below, with the rolling fog, green grass and happy people, said Buss from GrowSF. You can go two blocks away and every car on that block has had their windows smashed, while theres trash on the street, he said. Its a city of extremes. On top of more than 130 commissions that strip away power from the mayor and the board of supervisors, certain progressive state laws appear to be breeding lawlessness, according to Theroux from the Independent Institute. For example, Proposition 47 has reduced nonviolent property crimes, which dont exceed $950 in value, to a misdemeanor. When you make stealing legal, youre going to get stealing, said Theroux. You breed a culture of lawlessness, and it just feeds on itself and it becomes more and more lawless. So far this year, there have been more than 13,000 reported car break-ins, comparable to the same period in 2022, according to the San Francisco Police Department, which plans to crack down on these smash and grabs. Big shopping companies like Nordstrom, Office Depot and Anthropologie have shuttered their stores in the city. Meanwhile, residents dont feel welcome to stay anymore either with the median price for a home lingering close to $1.3 million. Hollan, the resident, said its hard not to feel that the city isnt pushing out families. That really is what it feels like, especially for stay-at-home moms in a one-income household. Also, the pressing thought that Im actually not able to give my kids some really important life experiences here because safety is such an issue, she said. With that said, San Franciscos future is largely unwritten. As residents push back at the ballot box, the city could evolve again. A Sarasota County Schools Police Department resource officer is under investigation for battery on security officers during a work-related training trip to a school safety conference in Orlando. The officer, Hannah Kalchbrenner, fought two security officers at the Rosen Inn during the first night of the 44th annual School Safety Conference by the Florida Association of School Resource Officers, according to Orange County Sheriffs Office documents. She is accused of kicking one security officer in the stomach multiple times and striking another in the face and chest, records show. The security officers responded to her hotel room following a report of a possible domestic dispute. Related: Bradenton Police Chief Melanie Bevan cleared of charges following investigation Also: Bradenton Police Chief calls unlawful search allegations 'slanderous' The case has been filed with the office of Ninth Judicial Circuit State Attorney Andrew Bain. The office did not return a request for comment but indicated records remain exempt from public request because the case remains open. The Sarasota County Schools Police Department is engaged in an active internal affairs investigation over the matter. Kalchbrenner is well-known in the Manatee County community because of a complaint she filed against Bradenton Police Chief Melanie Bevan in July 2022 during her time working at the department. She claimed Bevan searched two people and their home without a warrant. Bevan was cleared of the allegations in September 2022 by an independent investigation conducted by a retired judge on behalf of the city of Bradenton. Kalchbrenner resigned from the department in July 2022 and was hired by the Sarasota County Schools Police Department on Jan. 30. She makes an annual salary of more than $46,000 per year. The school district and department declined to comment on the situation, citing the ongoing internal investigation. This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Sarasota County Schools PD resource officer under investigation The daughter of Todd and Julie Chrisley has spoken out once again after visiting her father in federal prison. In a recent episode of the podcast The Viall Files, Chrisley told show host Nick Viall that her parents have made plenty of friends while in prison. Oh, hell yeah, she said. Dad is like he likes to joke because even at visitation, I meet so many different people. Its hilarious. I come through visitation, and [the other inmates] come through, and theyre like, clapping his hands. Hes, like, the president of this place. In November, Todd Chrisley was sentenced to 12 years in prison plus 36 months of supervised release. Julie Chrisley was sentenced to seven years in prison, plus 36 months of supervised release. Savannah Crisley has been vocal about what she calls inhumane conditions that her parents are living in while in prison. In a recent interview with the Daily Mail, Chrisley told them that the couple may be working on a tell-all book about their experience in prison. RELATED STORIES: They may be working on books, they may, who knows... but they are definitely documenting every little thing that goes on, Chrisley said. Chrisley said she gets to speak to both of her parents at least twice a day, and they usually put on a good face. Also in the podcast, Chrisley said she is no longer on speaking terms with her sister, Lindsie Chrisley. She and my oldest brother (Kyle Chrisley) from my dads first marriage, my mom always treated them as if they were hers. They didnt necessarily treat her the same, she told Viall. Channel 2 Action News first started investigating the Chrisleys in 2017, when we learned that Todd Chrisley had likely evaded paying Georgia state income taxes for several years. Court documents obtained by Channel 2 Action News showed that by 2018, the Chrisleys owed the state nearly $800,000 in liens. The couple eventually went to trial and a federal jury found them guilty of bank fraud and tax evasion in June 2022. Todd and Julie Chrisley have maintained their innocence from the beginning. They are currently in the process of appealing their conviction. RELATED NEWS: NANNING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The China-ASEAN Commodity Trading Innovation and Development Forum on Monday helped broker five commodity deals totaling 29.7 billion yuan (about 4.1 billion U.S. dollars). The procurement deals cover commodities including petroleum, palm oil, coal, and ores, organizers said. The forum was held on Monday in Nanning, capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Guangxi has booming trade exchanges with the ASEAN countries. In recent years, the China (Guangxi) Pilot Free Trade Zone has accelerated the construction of a commodity trading platform. From January to July, the free trade zone imported 12.79 million tonnes of commodities, a year-on-year increase of 81.2 percent. The forum also launched the Beibu Gulf (Guangxi) mercantile exchange interactive spot-futures trading platform to help build Qinzhou into a commodity trading hub to mainly serve the ASEAN countries. More than 200 people from China and ASEAN countries, including commodity trade authorities, business associations, research institutions, representatives of commodity trading platforms and producers and traders, attended the forum. A South Carolina man is behind bars after leading law enforcement officers on a chase through multiple counties after he stole an ambulance from a hospital, the Union County Sheriffs Office said. Terrance Trent Darby, a 34-year-old Anderson resident, was charged with multiple crimes in Union County, including attempted murder, the sheriffs office said in a news release. Darby was also charged with reckless driving, failure to stop for blue light, disregarding a traffic control device, and endangerment of a highway worker, Union County court records show. The Sept. 14 incident began in Spartanburg County, where Darby stole an ambulance from Spartanburg Medical Centers Mary Black hospital campus, the sheriffs office said. The Spartanburg County Sheriffs Office said that Darby was a patient at the hospital who drove away in the empty but running ambulance that was parked outside of the hospitals emergency room, WSPA reported. Before the chase entered Union County, the ambulance hit a Spartanburg Police Department patrol vehicle, according to WSPA. Union County deputies took command of the pursuit when it entered the county on U.S. 176 and they deployed stop sticks before the ambulance reached the city limits, but that failed to stop the stolen vehicle, according to the sheriffs office release. The stolen ambulance continued into the city where stop sticks were used again and hit the vehicles tires, the sheriffs office said. The ambulance began to slow down before stopping in the parking lot of an old school on Sims Drive, according to the release. Thats about 30 miles from the hospital where the ambulance was stolen. Darby was taken into custody without incident, the sheriffs office said. No injuries were reported, but the attempted murder charge stems from Darby driving toward a captain with the sheriffs office who was setting up stop sticks, according to an arrest warrant. Bond was denied on all of the charges, and Darby is locked up at the Union County Detention Center, jail records show. Darby is also being held for the Spartanburg County Sheriffs Office, according to jail records, but information on that charge was not available. Darby is scheduled to return to court on Dec. 18, according to Union County judicial records. Prior to the chase, Darby was out on bond on a trespassing charge that is still pending, Spartanburg County court records show. On Sept. 1, Darby pleaded guilty to a possession of a stolen vehicle charge from July and was sentenced to time served of 32 days, according to Spartanburg County court records. Despite the Democratic National Committee officially kicking off its presidential nominating contests with South Carolina, New Hampshire Democrats have indicated they still plan to hold their own contest before the Palmetto State. With President Joe Biden not expected to be on the Granite State ballot, it leads to the possibility of Democratic challengers Robert F. Kennedy Jr. or Marianne Williamson garnering a victory or even a momentum-building narrow defeat in New Hampshire if the states Democrats pull off a difficult write-in campaign for the president. Either of them would be able to say they are a viable candidate, even though any delegates they are awarded from New Hampshire may not be counted at national convention time. If either Kennedy or Williamson do well in New Hampshire, it forces Bidens reelection campaign to work to ensure he performs well in South Carolina, a state that slingshotted the president to the 2020 nomination. And state Democrats and the Biden campaign both say they are preparing now to make that happen. We can expect a lively campaign here, said U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, who is serving as Bidens campaign co-chair and whose endorsement is credited with helping the president win the 2020 nomination. We dont intend for anybody to come in here, whether their name is Marianne Williamson or Kennedy, and outshine Joe Biden. That just aint going to happen. Kennedy, the nephew of former president John F. Kennedy , has been complaining about how the new primary order is only meant to benefit Biden because it prioritizes states where he did well in 2020. In 2020, Biden finished fourth in Iowa, fifth in New Hampshire and second in Nevada, before winning South Carolina. Everyone knows the real reason the DNC made the change. The people of South Carolina didnt ask for it. No, it is simply another undemocratic attempt to rig the primary process in favor of their anointed candidate, Joe Biden, Kennedy said in a statement. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks to a crowd at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, S.C. during a campaign stop When the Democratic Party decided to reevaluate its primary order, it invited 20 states, including Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada and South Carolina, to apply to be in the early window before Super Tuesday. Ultimately, Democrats decided to upend their process that used to start with the Iowa caucus followed by the New Hampshire primary, now looking to make sure the primary electorate in the early voting states more accurately represented the demographically diverse Democratic Party voter base. Black voters represent 60% of the Democratic primary electorate in South Carolina, while Iowa and New Hampshire have an overwhelmingly white electorate. In February, the Democratic National Committee decided on a new early voting state order: South Carolina on Feb. 3, Nevada and New Hampshire on Feb. 6, Georgia on Feb. 13, and Michigan on Feb. 27. Its an order that keeps three out of the original four states in the early window and has New Hampshire holding a primary directly after the first contest. For the first time, the backbone of the Democratic Party Black voters will be heard first at the ballot box in the 2024 presidential primary, said Christale Spain, the chairwoman of the S.C. Democratic Party. It is a long overdue change that strengthens our party, and makes sure the primary calendar is more reflective of the diversity of our country and it should be something to celebrate. We are thrilled to be the state who will award President Biden and Vice President Harris with their first delegates next year. Last Thursday, the DNCs Rules & Bylaws Committee voted to grant New Hampshire another extension to Oct. 14 to submit a proposal for its primary that complies with the national partys new calendar. Democrats both on the committee and in New Hampshire, however, each expect the state, which has a law mandating it hold the first-in-the-nation primary, will continue to try to hold its primary before South Carolina, which would lead to DNC sanctions. It is abundantly clear that the DNCs continued delay of a decision on whether they will count New Hampshire votes in the primary is a disenfranchisement of voters and a further display of disrespect for our democratic system, said Carlos Cardona, Williamsons campaign manager. Presidential candidate Marianne Williamson speaks to a crowd of voters during the 2nd annual South Carolina Sunday Dinner, hosted by the S.C. Black Caucus of the Democratic Party on Sun., March 26, 2023. Republicans plan to start their nominating contests with the Iowa caucus on Jan. 15. A date for the New Hampshire primary has yet to be finalized, but Jan. 23 is being considered, a date Democrats in the state may have accept. Recognizing the importance of South Carolina, Kennedys campaign has made moves in the state. Hes hired staff including a state director and volunteer director. Hes also opened offices in Charleston, Columbia and Orangeburg. During a recent visit to South Carolina, Kennedy said he wasnt being critical of the Palmetto State in the process. His ire was pointed at the DNC for changing the nominating contest order. I think on principle, its not a good way to run a primary to just take the primary states where you did well last time and only allow those people to vote, Kennedy said in an interview with a One America News Network contributor. I dont think that is a really good exemplar for democracy. SC Democratic efforts to help Biden Just because Biden won the 2020 South Carolina primary doesnt mean Democrats assume hell win the state again in the 2024 process. The state and local Democratic parties will help carry out efforts to ensure a Biden victory in the Palmetto State on Feb. 3. The two things that were really focused on in Richland County is messaging, amplifying the message that comes from the White House or the state party, and also the messaging that resonates with voters that weve talked to, said Valerie Moore, the chairwoman of the Richland County Democratic Party. When we talk to voters about the issues that affect them directly or what keeps them up at night, youre trying to tie that into the Biden initiatives. Moore pointed to the $35 a month cap on insulin prices, the expanded child tax credit and the infrastructure bill passed during the Biden administration. Moore said the county party will have an outreach operation with door knocking and mailers to encourage people to vote in the Feb. 3 Democratic contest. Were going to have a full-on field operation, Moore said. One of the things we found in 2020 is the presidential primary is a chance for Democrats to reach out to other Democrats. We hope that people will be inspired and not just call it in (and) hope that everybody else is doing their thing because a lot of people sat home in 2016 and thats how we got in this mess. Joseph Bustos reported from Columbia, S.C. Alex Roarty reported from Washington, D.C. DENVER (KDVR) Federal student loan repayments begin in October after being paused in 2020 due to the pandemic. Some 44 million students across the U.S. and more than 750,000 students at campuses across Colorado carry loan debt. A future with legal MDMA in Colorado? Theres already a law on the books Colorados average student loan debt levels are the nations 16th highest, at $27.3 billion. Not everybody is born with money, but I think everybody deserves an education, one student at the University of Colorado Denver campus told FOX31. Scammers hustling student loan borrowers Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser warns that scammers are finding ways to hustle those worried about making monthly payments. It is an opportunity for those scammers out there to scare people, Weiser said. Weiser told FOX31 his office has seen a marked increase in student-targeted scams since the student loan payment pause in 2020. The scammers know there are lots of student borrowers out there, so they dont know your specifics. But they do know you might be nervous about your student loan payments, and thats what they prey on, Weiser said. Student loan repayment scams: The red flags Scammers may contact students and offer fake opportunities to reduce payments, or they may pose as legitimate loan providers in an effort to obtain personal information in order to commit identity theft. Watch: Doug Lamborn on 50-50 proposition to pass funding bill It is important to know the red flags. Any time someone starts asking you for personal information social security numbers, credit cards, bank accounts be nervous. Another red flag is pressure tactics telling you youve got to act right now or youre going to lose out on an opportunity, Weiser said. Other red flags include the presentation of deals that just seem too good to be true. Never click on links in unsolicited emails and verify any request for information by contacting your loan company yourself. How to protect yourself from student loan scams Weiser encourages those with student loans to visit studentaid.gov to update their contact information, identify their loan servicer and contact their servicer to find out about their new monthly payment and potential alternatives to make repayment more affordable. In addition to updating their account information and finding the correct servicer, borrowers who visit studentaid.gov may be able to take advantage of the new income-driven repayment plan that will offer the lowest possible monthly payment. Additionally, the federal government is offering the Fresh Start initiative, a one-time temporary opportunity to help people get out of default and restore benefits they may have lost because of default. Scans should be reported to stopfraudcolorado.gov. Any student loan borrower having problems communicating with their loan provider can contact the Colorado Attorney General Offices student loan ombudsperson and file a complaint. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com. High-quality but slow, or fast and cheap? During the depths of the pandemic, rapid at-home COVID tests were often more useful than the slightly more accurate but much slower PCR tests. People needed the at-home tests quicker results because they were trying to make immediate decisions. Should they go to work? Was it safe to see family? The slower process of scheduling a PCR test, going in-person to take it and then waiting days for results just didnt work. Get stories like these delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter Education is suffering the same problems with tests of academic performance. The federal government requires states to test students in reading and math in grades 3 to 8 and at least once in high school. But in fulfilling that mandate, states have not paid enough attention to the speed at which they deliver the results. Consider the graph below, showing the dates at which states released the scores from their spring 2022 assessments. School start dates vary widely across the country, but only five states announced results by the end of July. Nine states released their scores in August. That leaves 36 states and the District of Columbia, which announced their results in September or later. This year, as of the end of August, 15 states and the District of Columbia had released the scores from their spring 2022 tests; the rest were still processing theirs. In tracking all these down, I was limited to the date on which states released their official results to the public. A handful of states share preliminary data with parents and educators in advance. However, thats far from standard practice. More typically, the results reach parents only after trickling down through district bureaucracies. That game of telephone takes time, and it dilutes the message the tests might otherwise send about student performance. What will it take to change this dynamic? So far in 2023, states are following a pattern pretty similar to last years. As of late August, 18 states and the District of Columbia had released the results from their spring tests; the rest were still processing theirs. As with the debate over PCR versus at-home COVID tests, the assessment challenges in education are political, not technical. From a technical standpoint, its possible to deliver high-quality assessment results, at scale, much faster than what states are doing right now. For example, students who take the ACT, SAT, GRE and AP tests can expect their results online within about two weeks. So why do state test results take so much longer? The delays seem to come down to a few reasons. One, some state exams go beyond bubble tests to feature essays or other open-response questions that take longer to score. But that still doesnt explain the gap. The makers of the ACT and SAT warn, for example, that results may take another few days or up to two weeks to score written test items. Two, states are afraid of making mistakes. They are reluctant to release results even preliminary ones before they are confident they got everything 100% correct. Thats a reasonable impulse, but again, the private-sector tests serve as a counterpoint. Those exams actually have high stakes for the students taking them, unlike most state tests. There are some high-profile examples of high stakes for state tests, such as third-grade reading retention policies, but in practice, those places tend to release their results faster. If anything, attaching stakes seems to speed things up. The search for perfection also leads to a third problem too many checkpoints. Some states are so concerned about getting everything right that they will let districts review their results privately before the results are made public. Again, that might be understandable in some circumstances, but it adds more time. There are signs this dynamic is changing. District leaders are starting to make the timing argument. In Missouri, for example, 20 districts have banded together to create their own accountability system based on quicker, faster tests like the NWEA Map and i-Ready. These districts will still be required to take the federally mandated state tests, but the districts hope to provide a model for the rest of the state. Their vision relies on quicker, faster progress measures focused on student growth in grades 3 to 8, combined with competency-based assessments and other meaningful career-readiness indicators for high school students. Related Missouri Approves Innovation Waivers for Districts to Opt Out of State Tests Some states are also rethinking their assessment systems in the push for faster testing data that could better inform instruction. Ohio legislators this year passed a requirement that schools provide results to parents no later than June 30. And states like Florida, Louisiana, Nebraska, Texas and Virginia have all shifted or are in the process of adopting versions of through-year assessments that test kids at multiple points in time during the school year. Montana just got federal approval to do something similar. The mechanics of each states test vary, but the goal with all these models is to lessen the focus on the end-of-year test while giving more immediate feedback to educators and parents on individual student progress. The feds could also put their thumbs on the scale in favor of speed. After all, Congress set the federal testing mandate, and the law requires states to provide the results to parents, teachers and school leaders as soon as is practicable after the assessment is given. The law doesnt define what that means, but congressional leaders could set a time limit. Policymakers have long touted the multiple potential purposes for state tests. Parents could see the results and sign their child up for tutoring, enroll them in summer classes or find a new school. Teachers could shift their teaching practices. School leaders could use the results to target schoolwide challenges or shift classroom assignments. But these decisions all depend on having good information at the right time. And right now, states are missing that window. They are too slow in getting test results back into the hands of the people who need them. Disclosure: The author is a consultant for NWEA, maker of the MAP Growth interim assessments. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) blasted the House GOP stopgap funding proposal on the Senate floor Monday, criticizing it for not including funding for Ukraine and other Democratic requests. And with no Ukraine funding, the proposal is an insult to Ukraine and a gift to [Russian President Vladimir] Putin. I cannot think of a worse welcome for [Ukrainian President Volodymyr] Zelensky who visits us this week than this House proposal, which ignores Ukraine entirely, Schumer said. Zelensky is slated to meet with President Biden this week and hold discussions with lawmakers, as well as visit the United Nations General Assembly in New York. While support for Ukraine is widespread, a handful of House Republicans have been outspoken in their opposition to more U.S. funding for the war-torn nation. Schumer described the House GOP proposal as a hard-right screed, accusing Republicans of not working on a bipartisan solution to keep the government open. The White House asked Congress to attach supplemental funding for Ukraine, disaster relief and border security to a continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government. Without those requests, the CR is unlikely to pass the Democratic-controlled Senate. A group of Republicans announced an internal deal for the stopgap bill Sunday night. If approved, it would extend the funding deadline by a month, cut all spending except for the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs, and enact a large part of the House GOPs marquee border bill, H.R. 2. It has already been met with opposition from enough Republicans to put it in jeopardy even in the lower chamber. A CR or other funding bill must be passed by Sept. 30 to keep the government from shutting down. Schumer also targeted Republicans for proposing cuts to nondefense spending in his remarks Monday. Instead of working with Democrats to keep government open, House Republicans want to cut virtually all nondefense spending by a devastating 8 percent, 8 percent, he said Monday. Eight percent cuts to law enforcement, cancer research and other critical priorities. Not one penny is dedicated to the presidents disaster relief request despite the anguish in so many states. No health extenders are included, no attempt to reauthorize the FAA [Federal Aviation Administration]. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Researchers for the first time have performed a detailed search of three deep-sea shipwrecks from the Battle of Midway, discovering new details that could help researchers better understand a critical turning point in World War II. The three shipwrecks were recently surveyed by a crew aboard the Exploration Vessel Nautilus, according to the Ocean Exploration Trust, a nonprofit group dedicated to seafloor exploration. The crew used remote-controlled vessels to film and photograph the USS Yorktown, as well as the wreckage of the Japanese Imperial Navys Akagi and Kaga. We methodically circumnavigated these historic wrecks, bringing to light many features in great detail, including armament, battle and sinking-related damage, Daniel Wagner, the chief scientist for the Ocean Exploration Trust, said in a news release. The trust led the project in collaboration with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. USS Yorktown 3: Standing tall above the leaning flight deck, the ships island is the most prominent feature on USS Yorktown, heavily damaged by intense fire and heat. Photo captured by ROV Atalanta on September 9-10, 2023. (Ocean Exploration Trust, NOAA) The site is the final resting place for hundreds of sailors on both sides of the conflict; the expedition team conducted ceremonies to honor the sites history. Samuel Cox, director of the U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command, said the project would help document and assess important war grave sites for American and Japanese sailors. The shipwrecks are more than 16,000 feet below the oceans surface. The crews equipment took about 43 hours to survey the three historic wrecks, according to Wagner. USS Yorktown (CV-5) burns after being hit by three Japanese bombs at the Battle of Midway, 4 June 1942. (National Archives) The Battle of Midway took place over several days in June 1942 about 1,300 miles northwest of Honolulu. The Japanese navy aimed to expand its reach in the Pacific Ocean by launching an attack on a U.S. base on Midway Atoll, a small group of islands that were of strategic importance. U.S. forces had broken the Japanese navys code and were able to prepare a counterattack, which ultimately devastated its fleet and helped America gain the upper hand in the Pacific, according to the Naval History and Heritage Command. Nautilus Control Room 2 At the same moment as viewers around the world, the team in the control room of Exploration Vessel Nautilus, the team looks miles below the ocean at the shipwreck of USS Yorktown. (Ocean Exploration Trust) Between the two sides of the conflict, more than 3,400 service members died. Seven major ships were sunk, including the Akagi, Kaga and Yorktown. The two Japanese ships both aircraft carriers were scuttled by Japanese destroyers after fires burned on board. A Japanese torpedo sank the Yorktown. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com A Sunday evening house fire in Hilton Heads Sea Pines community left one dead, town officials announced Monday morning. Around 7 p.m. Sunday, a fire crew was dispatched to a house on Governors Road after detecting a smoke alarm activation, according to a news release. The crew spotted smoke rising from the house and elevated the call to an ongoing structure fire. When crews entered the home, one occupant was found dead in the room the fire was believed to have started in. The fire was soon put out. The Beaufort County Sheriffs Office has requested South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, or SLED, personnel to assist with the investigation, according to the town release. The identity of the deceased and cause of the fire have not been released at time of publication. The last fatal fire on Hilton Head occurred in September 2022, when a fire in Palmetto Dunes killed one occupant and critically injured another. The crew involved in the rescue of that fires survivors recently earned an award for their actions. Authorities are still looking for Christopher Worrell of East Naples who went missing in August, shortly before he was scheduled to be sentenced for his part in the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol riot. The search for an East Naples man in connection with the 2021 Capitol insurrection has reached another milestone, surpassing the one-month mark. Christopher Worrell, 52, was convicted of the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection with his sentencing scheduled for Aug. 18, which was canceled that week, days prior to his court appearance. U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia officials on Aug. 17 unsealed the bench warrant, which was issued Aug. 15. It did not include details related to his disappearance. Worrell had been on house arrest in East Naples since he was released from custody November 2021 in Washington, D.C. On Jan. 6, 2021, after President Donald Trump 's reelection loss, a riot of his supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol Building. The mob hoped to prevent Congress from counting electoral college votes and keep then-President-elect Joe Biden from power. U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth found Worrell guilty of: Obstruction of an official proceeding. Entering or remaining in a restricted building or grounds with a deadly or dangerous weapon. Disorderly or disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds with a deadly or dangerous weapon. Engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds with a deadly or dangerous weapon. Act of physical violence in the U.S. Capitol grounds or buildings. Civil disorder. Assaulting, resisting or impeding certain officers using a dangerous weapon. The FBI issued a warrant for violated conditions of release pending sentencing. He's one of seven people wanted by federal authorities related to the riot. The Department of Justice had asked Lamberth to sentence Worrell to 14 years years in prison; three years of supervised release; $2,000 in restitution; a fine of up to $181,000, and $610 in mandatory special assessments, which are imposed on defendants convicted of federal crimes. Tomas Rodriguez is a Breaking/Live News Reporter for the Naples Daily News and The News-Press. You can reach Tomas at TRodriguez@gannett.com or 772-333-5501. Connect with him on Threads @tomasfrobeltran, Instagram @tomasfrobeltran, Facebook @tomasrodrigueznews and Twitter @TomasFRoBeltran. This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Christopher Worrell: Naples, Florida Proud Boy on lam since Aug. 15 A second man has been charged in a February 2022 killing at an abandoned house in Grays Creek, a news release from the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office said. David Ray Bowman, 32, of Fayetteville, was booked into the Cumberland County jail Wednesday on a warrant charging him with first-degree murder in the Feb. 6, 2022 shooting death of Omar Hugh Sharif Baker, 40. Michael David Schlegler, 38, of Charlotte, was booked on the same charge in December and is being held without bail, jail records show. Related: Man found shot to death off Doc Bennett Road in Cumberland County What the records say According to the medical examiner's report, the Sheriff's Office learned that Baker had been shot about 7 p.m. Feb, 6 in the area of Doc Bennett Road after his girlfriend reportedly arrived at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center with an undisclosed injury. Following a search of the mostly rural area, deputies found Baker's body about 2:40 a.m. Feb. 7 in the kitchen of an abandoned house on Charles Thigpen Drive, the medical examiner's report and Schlegler's charging document said. He had been shot five times, including in the head, abdomen and chest, the autopsy report said. The medical examiner's report noted that the Sheriff's Office recovered two different types of shell casings from the scene. Related: Fayetteville man may have info in Cumberland County killing Bowman was extradited Wednesday to Cumberland County from Cobb County, Georgia, the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office said. He'd been in custody there since Dec. 15, 2022, on Cobb County drug and weapon charges, records show. On Jan. 26, 2023, he pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine and obstruction of an officer and was sentenced to one year in jail, according to Georgia court records. Cobb County jail records listed his home address as being in the 1700 block of Charles Thigpen Drive in Cumberland County. He is being held in the Cumberland County jail without bail, jail records show. Public safety reporter Joseph Pierre can be reached at jpierre@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: Second man arrested in Cumberland County killing at abandoned home A second man was arrested on Sunday accused of hanging an antisemitic banner over Interstate 4 in Orlando this summer. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement said Alachua County deputies arrested Anthony Altick, 36, on an FDLE warrant. FDLE officials said Alticks arrest stems from a June 10 incident where antisemitic banners were hung over along the Daryl Carter Parkway Bridge in Orlando. Officials said the banners were in violation of House Bill 269, which prohibits individuals from displaying or projecting images onto a building, structure, or property without permission. Last week, officials said they arrested Jason Brown, 48, of Cape Canaveral, on a charge related to the same incident. Read: Brevard County man accused of hanging swastikas, antisemitic banners on Orlando overpass Officials said there are currently two outstanding arrest warrants for additional demonstrators who live out of state. Officials said Altick will be charged with criminal mischief. Read: 98-year-old former Nazi concentration camp guard charged as an accessory to murder Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. HOHHOT, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The 14th China-Mongolia Media Forum was held on Monday in the city of Ulanqab in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. Focusing on the use of media power to serve modernization and common development, the forum attracted over 150 guests from the media sectors in both countries. Liu Siyang, vice president of the All-China Journalists Association (ACJA) and secretary of the association's leading Party members group, told the forum that this year marks the 10th anniversary of Belt and Road Initiative. Over the past decade, China and Mongolia have shown mutual respect, worked together for common development, engaged in frequent high-level interactions, and maintained continuous people-to-people exchanges, and bilateral cooperation has yielded fruitful results, Liu said. He noted that he expects the media organizations of both countries to play a greater role in serving modernization and promoting friendly cooperation between China and Mongolia, which would benefit both countries and their peoples. Otgonbaatar Ulziibayar, president of the Confederation of Mongolian Journalists, said at the forum that cooperation between the Chinese and Mongolian media sectors has seen progress and contributed to deepening the friendship between the two countries. Through the forum, practical bilateral cooperation in various fields will be strengthened and make a positive contribution to the friendship between the two countries, said Ulziibayar. Chinese and Mongolian media also renewed the Belt and Road news exchange and cooperation agreement during the event. Established in 2010, the forum has become an important platform for media organizations in both countries to advance exchanges and cooperation. When is the second Republican debate? The second Republican primary debate will be held this week, on Sept. 27 at 9 p.m. ET, at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, in Simi Valley, California, and will run two hours. The first Republican debate's biggest highlights: Revisit 7 key moments Fox Business, along with Univision, will moderate the debate, and the conservative online video platform Rumble will also stream it. What are the requirements to qualify for the debate? The threshold for the second debate is higher than it was for the first. Candidates must poll at 3% in two national polls or 3% in one national poll and 3% in one early state poll from two separate early-voting states Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada, South Carolina recognized by the Republican National Committee. For the first debate, the polling requirement was 1% in the same poll categories. Polls must have been conducted on or after Aug. 1, and candidates have until 48 hours before the debate to meet the polling requirement. Candidates will also need to have a minimum of 50,000 unique donors to their principal presidential campaign committee or exploratory committee, with at least 200 unique donors per state or territory in more than 20 states and/or territories. That's an increase of 10,000 unique donors over the 40,000 required to make it onstage for the first primary debate. Who has qualified for the second debate? The RNC announced Monday evening the seven candidates who will be participating: North Dakota Governor Doug BurgumFormer New Jersey Governor Chris ChristieFlorida Governor Ron DeSantisFormer Ambassador Nikki HaleyFormer Vice President Mike PenceEntrepreneur Vivek RamaswamySouth Carolina Senator Tim Scott Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson did not qualify for the second debate. Who's moderating the debate? Stuart Varney and Dana Perino, of Fox News, will moderate the debate, with Univision's Ilia Calderon. Does Trump plan to attend? Former President Donald Trump announced will skip the second Republican primary debate to deliver a competing address the same night in Detroit, his campaign said. The exact time and audience for the event have not been announced yet, but according to the New York Times, which first reported Trump would skip the debate, he will be addressing a union crowd. Trump is expected to speak in the same city where United Auto Workers members are striking to demand higher wages, better schedules and better benefits. The former president also did not attend the first debate, and instead sat for an interview with Tucker Carlson that streamed at the same time the debate aired. Here's what he said about why he didn't participate: "You see the polls have come out, I'm leading by 50 and 60 points. And some of them are at one and zero and two. And I'm saying, 'Do I sit there for an hour or two hours, whatever it's going to be and get harassed by people that shouldn't even be running for president? Should I be doing that? And a network that isn't particularly friendly, frankly.'" A week before the second debate, primary opponent Nikki Haley criticized Trump for sitting out the debate. "You can't just not be on a debate stage because you're so high in the polls," she said at an event in New Hampshire Thursday. "You've got to show not what you did in the last four years [but], what are you going to do in the next four, how are you going to fix what was broken?" Trump has also not signed the RNC's "loyalty pledge" to support the candidate who wins the Republican nomination. Cristina Corujo contributed to this report. Taylor Swift attends Chiefs game with Travis Kelce's family Newest car theft threat: carhackers "Captain Rose vs. 'The System'" (1974) | 60 Minutes Archive Senators will be able to wear whatever they want on the Senate floor after Sen. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer , a New York Democrat, this weekend directed the sergeant at arms not to enforce the Senate's informal dress code. The sergeant at arms is elected by senators and acts as a protocol officer and law enforcement, enforcing the rules in the Senate. In a statement to CBS News, Schumer said, "Senators are able to choose what they wear on the Senate floor. I will continue to wear a suit." The change only applies to senators, but other staff members must still follow the code, which requires business attire, CBS News' Nikole Killion reports. Sen. John Fetterman , a Democrat from Pennsylvania, has been seen wearing a hoodie and shorts to work even before Schumer's announcement. Fetterman even donned a sweatshirt for a news briefing about the collapse of I-95 in Pennsylvania with President Biden earlier this year. President Biden and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro look on as Sen. John Fetterman, D-Penn., delivers remarks following a briefing on Interstate-95 highway emergency repair and reconstruction efforts, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on June 17, 2023. / Credit: JULIA NIKHINSON/AFP via Getty Images He wears suits, but it isn't uncommon for Fetterman to wear casual clothes. It seems like the dress code hasn't been enforced in quite some time. Still women have been criticized or even reprimanded in the past for breaking the dress code in the House and Senate chambers. While the dress code is informal, it is alleged that sleeveless attire and open-toed shoes were not allowed. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema , an independent from Arizona, drew attention for wearing a sleeveless dress the day she was sworn in, according to AZ Central. Since then, she has often worn what some have deemed "inappropriate" clothing, including short sleeves, denim, bright colors and wigs. One user on X, the social media platform previously known as Twitter, shared a photo of Sinema in a pink wig, writing: "This is inappropriate for a senator to dress. Krysten Lea Sinema looks like she's going to rave. Not okay." In a 2021 interview with Politico, Sinema said talk about what she wears is "inappropriate." "I wear what I want because I like it," said Sinema, who was first elected to the seat as a Democrat in 2019. "It's not a news story, and it's no one's business. It's not helpful to have [coverage] be positive or negative. It also implies that somehow women are dressing for someone else." It does not appear Sinema has been reprimanded for her attire, but she has received criticism on social media and she has also received support. Three women senators Republicans Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Jeanne Shaheen, a New Hampshire Democrat, wrote a letter to the New York Times defending Sinema after the paper published four different pieces about her outfits, according to Axios. While she was not reprimanded, former first lady Michelle Obama stirred up a debate when she donned a sleeveless dress during her husband's 2009 address to Congress. In the House, men are supposed to wear suits and ties and women aren't supposed to wear sleeveless attire, sneakers or open-toed shoes but there doesn't seem to be a formal record of these rules. Still, they have been enforced. In 2017, a woman reporter tried to enter the House Speaker's lobby, located outside the chamber, but her sleeveless dress was deemed "inappropriate." She improvised shoulder coverings using paper from her notebook, witnesses said. After a CBS News article about the incident went viral, Rep. Martha McSally, a Republican from Arizona, made a statement while speaking on the House floor. "Before I yield back, I want to point out I'm standing here in my professional attire, which happens to be a sleeveless dress and open-toed shoes," she said. In 2012, Rep. Bobby Rush, an Illinois Democrat, was escorted from the House floor for wearing a hoodie and sunglasses while talking about Trayvon Martin, the Black teenager who was shot and killed by a member of the Sanford, Florida neighborhood watch that year. The hoodie had become a symbol for Martin, who was wearing a hoodie when he was killed while walking at night. There has been a growing trend of wearing sneakers along with business attire in Congress, CBS News' Scott MacFarlane reports. Rep. Jared Moskowitz, a Florida Democrat, is leading the charge to get Congress to change its dress code. The self-proclaimed "sneaker head" said corporate America has already begun to abandon dress shoes for comfortable kicks. Moskowitz and Rep. Lori Chavez DeRemer, a Republican from Oregon, created a bipartisan Congressional "sneaker caucus" to spark conversations and help bridge the divide between members of Congress, MacFarlane said. Bear sighting causes Disney World closures Sean Penn gives firsthand account of war in Ukraine Debris field found during search for missing F-35 jet North Carolina state Senate leader Phil Berger is now a champion of affordable housing and promoter of diverse communities. Who knew? The people of Summerfield didnt. The Guilford County town of 11,000 outside Greensboro is a Republican stronghold in Bergers Senate district. But now their senator is pushing through a bill that would deannex nearly 1,000 acres of the town. The change will make the property part of the county and allow developer David Couch to build apartment complexes and other housing that would double the towns population. Town leaders say the proposed development a 973-acre mixed-used project known as the Villages of Summerfield Farms would be too much too fast in a town with two-lane rural roads and without municipal water and sewer services. But Berger says hes tired of waiting for the town to provide the zoning change and infrastructure that would make more development possible. The deannexation bill, House Bill 5, has passed the Senate and may be taken up by the House this week. In a letter to Summerfield Mayor Tim Sessoms, Berger wrote: I have a responsibility to step in when a local unit of government fails to take obvious and reasonable steps in the public interest, including creation of an environment conducive to addressing needs for housing and essential services for its citizens. If youre having trouble following Bergers conversion from conservative Republican to usurper of local government, you might try following the money. Developer Couch, a major contributor to Republicans and to Berger. Jolinda Babcock, a local attorney, is one of many Summerfield residents opposed to the deannexation. She said the town has adjusted its zoning to accommodate more multifamily housing, but the developer wants to build on a scale that exceeds the towns capacity to absorb it. Most homes in the town rely on septic systems and well water. Babcock is flummoxed by Bergers support for the project despite so much local opposition. The only conclusion is that Sen. Berger is ignoring thousands of his constituents to help one developer, she said. You hate to think that about a politician you voted for, but what other conclusion can you come to? One alternative conclusion is that Berger is doing it for the reason he stated: To allow denser and more affordable housing in a relatively wealthy town where multifamily housing is scarce and most homes are set on large lots. Melvin Skip Alston, a Guilford County commissioner and former president of the North Carolina NAACP, said Summerfield has resisted opening up to more multi-family housing because that brings in a more diverse population. Census numbers show Summerfield is 88.5 percent white and 4.7 percent Black. Nearby Greensboro is evenly split between white and Black populations, each at 43 percent. Alston supports the de-annexation. He said, There are other ways to make people do the right thing when they are intent on not being inclusive. Others think Berger is going too far. State Sen. Gladys Robinson, a Guilford County Democrat, voted against the bill allowing the de-annexation. She said it would be better to let the developer and the town work out their differences. I think the worst thing is when the state interferes with local governments, she said. And this legislature has a history in the last 10 or 12 years of really pushing local governments around. Rep. Pricey Harrison, another Guilford County Democrat, said Bergers intervention to assist a developer is a bad look. Its just so wrong to have a well-placed campaign donor getting his way because he could not get it through the proper channels, she said. Bergers reasons for seeking an end run around Summerfields government would be more plausible if he showed similar concern for affordable housing elsewhere. Under his leadership, the legislature has instead emphasized state tax cuts that put pressure on local property taxes that in turn increase the cost of housing. Associate opinion editor Ned Barnett can be reached at 919-404-7583, or nbarnett @newsobserver.com People cross Montgomery Street as they walk towards the entrance of the J. Tom Coleman Courthouse on Tuesday. This column is part of a weekly round-up of notable grand jury indictments and court decisions, following through on cases reported by Savannah Morning News public safety and courts reporter Drew Favakeh. If there are cases you're curious about, email Drew at AFavakeh@savannahnow.com. $20,000 bond granted to man charged with two murders On Sept. 11, Chatham County Superior Court Judge Lisa Colbert granted $20,000 bond to Shawn Campbell, who was arrested in March by Savannah Police and charged with murder. While incarcerated at the Chatham County Detention Center from March 21 through April 26, he also was charged in the Feb. 23 murder of Timothy Lewis, 42, on the 4200 block of New Castle Street around 10:30 p.m. Campbell has been previously denied bond twice. On Oct. 28, Campbell was denied bond by Colbert for the same reasons his bond was denied on May 31: He was deemed a significant threat or danger to person(s), to the community, or to any property in the community." Previous Reporting: Shawn Campbell denied bond, Flacos Tacos owner removes ankle monitor During a virtual hearing on Sept. 5, however, Colbert granted Campbell bond after she considered "pertinent factors. The bond order requires Campbell to remain in a residence on an electronic monitor and without possessing any firearms, commit no new law violations and attend all court appearances. According to a bond order, Campbell and a person exchanged words at a celebration of life event. Lewis assisted Campbell in leaving the event. When Campbell returned later to look for his cell phone, he shot Lewis. With a warrant out for his arrest, SPD arrested Campbell on May 6 and he was booked into Chatham County Detention Center. A jury trial in the case is scheduled for Jan. 22, 2024. Arrest Made: Savannah police make arrest in Worth Street homicide Person accused of voluntary manslaughter On Sept. 11, an accusation was filed in Chatham County Superior Court against Chalia Greene for charges of voluntary manslaughter, aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. On March 22, 2021, according to the accusation, Greene shot and killed Tamia Green while acting solely as the result of a sudden, violent and irresistible passion, resulting from serious provocation. Prosecutors also charge Greene with pointing a gun at Washonda Moss. According to previous reporting, Savannah Police arrested and charged Greene with the murder of Green on Worth and Archer streets. At the time of the alleged killing, Greene and Green were 21 years old. Double Homicide: Three men arrested in double homicide; gunshot near Georgetown leaves person critically injured Three men indicted for felony murder after armed robbery On Sept. 13, a Chatham County grand jury indicted Akilee Wilson, 23, Roland Heyward, 22, and Albert Mack, 27, for multiple counts of felony murder tied to a double homicide that took place after an armed robbery. On Aug. 9, at around 11:30 a.m., at an apartment complex on Fenwick Village Drive, Chatham County officers responded to a report of a shooting at the apartment complex, where they found two adult victims deceased inside one apartment. The shootings did not appear to be random, according to a CCPD press release. On Aug. 10, according to the CCPD, detectives arrested the three men. In the September indictment, prosecutors charge Wilson, Heyward and Mack for allegedly shooting and killing two men Eric Townsend and Robert Johnson in the commission of an armed robbery. In total, the grand jury indicted Wilson for six counts of felony murder, and Heyward and Mack for four counts of felony murder each. Additionally, the grand jury indicted Heyward and Wilson for five counts of possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony each, while the jury indicted Mack for four counts on the same charge. All three defendants received three counts of aggravated assault each and one count of armed robbery each. Wilson was the only defendant who was indicted for one count of Possession of Firearm by first offender probationer. That charge stemmed from Wilson possessing a semi-automatic firearm while on probation as a felony first offender for an aggravated assault charge in Cherokee County Superior Court, according to the September indictment. On Aug. 10, Heyward was denied bond by Recorders Court Judge Harris Odell Jr. due to O.C.G.A 17-6-1. An arraignment for the three defendants is scheduled for Oct. 12. Opening statements in felony murder trial about drug deal gone wrong During an eight-hour hearing on Thursday, prosecutors and defense attorneys laid out their opening arguments in a felony murder trial in Chatham County Superior Court. The murder trial centers around John Bailey and Taj Gayle, who were charged in December 2020 with murder in connection with the death of Melanie Steele. On Sept. 14, 2019, Steele was reported missing on the 2100 block of California Avenue. In November 2020, a DNA analysis determined that human remains discovered off of New Hampstead Parkway on March 18, 2020, were those of Steele. A grand jury also indicted Marcus Wilson with felony murder and kidnapping in connection with Steele's disappearance. Justin Lewis Path also was indicted for felony murder, conspiracy to commit a felony, armed robbery and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. On Sept. 11, the State nolle prosequid did not prosecute the armed robbery, conspiracy to commit a felony and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony charge. The state ultimately reached a negotiated guilty plea with Path for the felony murder charge. The Chatham County Grand Jury indicted Bailey for two counts of felony murder, conspiracy to commit the sale/purchase of controlled substances, kidnapping, armed robbery, possession of a firearm during a commission of a felony and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The grand jury indicted Gayle for two counts of felony murder, conspiracy to commit a felony, armed robbery and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. In his opening statement, Chatham County Assistant District Attorney Sean OBrien argued that Steele went to meet up with Bailey to conduct a drug deal. O'Brien argued that Marcus Wilson stood back and watched in horror as Bailey shot Steele. In its opening statement, the defense disagreed with that notion. What the state failed to tell you in that nice little story packed up in a box with a bow is that the bulk of that information comes from a liar," argued Katherine Kelly, the public defender representing Bailey. "Mr. Wilson is a liarWhat Mr. Wilson did in this case, and what the evidence will show in this case is that he lied to the police over and over and-over. During cross examination, Wilson admitted that he lied multiple times throughout the police investigation process, including about his relationship with Bailey and whether he was aware of the alleged murder when it happened. Direct examined by Chatham ADA Lyle Burnham, Wilson claimed he was afraid to come to the police for months because he was afraid that he would be implicated in the case and suffer from retaliation. Jury trials are scheduled in the case through early October. Drew Favakeh is the public safety and courts reporter for Savannah Morning News. You can reach him at AFavakeh@savannahnow.com. This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: chatham county courts updates for week of September 11 2023 Last month, the seven-year anniversary of Tony Timpa's death came and went. Today, jury selection in the civil trial surrounding that deathwhich occurred after Dallas police violated their training when they pinned him to the ground for about 14 minutesfinally began, providing an apt example of the legal odyssey alleged victims of government misconduct must navigate, should they want recourse. Those seven years were filled with roadblocks, put in place by the government, which almost deprived Timpa's family not only of stating their case before a jury but of learning the very basics about what happened on the evening of August 10, 2016, when Timpa phoned 911. That night, Timpa told a dispatcher that he was having a mental health crisis. He mentioned he had schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety and that he had not taken his medication. Two private security guards handcuffed Timpa and waited for the cops. They arrived shortly thereafter. For approximately 14 minutes and seven seconds, then-Officer Dustin Dillard, who was promoted last year to senior corporal, dug his left knee into Timpa's back, pressed his left hand between Timpa's shoulders, and periodically applied his right hand to Timpa's right shoulder. Timpa repeatedly cried out for help, yelling that he was "going to die." He eventually went quiet. Because of the risk associated with the prone restraint, the Dallas Police Department (DPD) orders its officers to place subjects in an upright position or on their side as soon as any resistance abates. Instead, Timpa's silence induced Dillard to joke that he heard Timpa "snoring," after which Cpl. Raymond Dominguez and Officer Danny Vasquez suggested that "scrambled eggs" and "tutti-frutti" waffles could rouse Timpa from his slumber. "You're going to kill me," Timpa had said. An autopsy found he suffered "sudden cardiac death due to the toxic effects of cocaine and [the] physiologic stress associated with physical restraint." He was 32. Yet Timpa's mother, Vicki, would go years without knowing what happened to her son. It was not for lack of trying. After the DPD notified her that her son was dead, the cops supplied several different stories. The police told her, Vicki said, that he'd had a heart attack at a bar, or that he collapsed by his vehicle, or that he fell unresponsive in an ambulance. None of those conflicting accounts could be reconciled, nor could any of them adequately explain why Timpa would have grass in his nose and bruises on his arms, which were apparent on her son's body when she went to the morgue. Vicki then filed suit against the police. But the department refused to give her the body camera footage, threatening her ability to effectively outline what happened and meet the minimum standard required to file such a suit. The government then moved to have her complaint dismissed for not being specific enough, despite that it was the government that was withholding the specifics. "The idea about this plausible pleading standard is to give defendants notice of what is being alleged against them," Joanna Schwartz, a law professor at UCLA and author of Shielded: How the Police Became Untouchable, told me earlier this year. "Well, the Dallas Police Department had all the notice in the world about what their officers had done, and yet used this tool to try to get the case dismissed." It took three years before Vicki Timpa would be able to see how her son died. In August 2019, a court ordered the DPD to release the footage, clearing the way for Vicki to state in her suit what the officers knew all along. In a practical sense, that was just the beginning. In July 2020, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas gave the police qualified immunity, the legal doctrine that dooms suits against state and local government actors if the misconduct alleged was not "clearly established" in a prior court ruling. Timpa's family invoked Gutierrez v. City of San Antonio, a 1998 case in the same federal circuit in which police officers were denied qualified immunity after a man died while they similarly restrained him facedown. The man in that case was hog-tiedwhereas Timpa was handcuffed with his feet zip-tiedwhich Judge David Godbey said was enough of a departure to render it ineffective at putting the Dallas officers on notice. That thin distinction exemplifies how difficult it can be to overcome qualified immunity, with many courts demanding that victims find a pre-existing precedent that essentially mirrors their allegations. Such a ruling often doesn't exist. But in a surprise decision, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit overturned Godbey's ruling in December 2021, denying the officers qualified immunity and paving the way for Vicki to move forward. "Within the Fifth Circuit, the law has long been clearly established that an officer's continued use of force on a restrained and subdued subject is objectively unreasonable," wrote Judge Edith Brown Clement. She also invoked the DPD's specific guidance on the prone restraint, which the officers appeared to ignore. Police can still receive qualified immunity even if they violate their own training, however, which puzzlingly assumes that officers are more likely to read decades of case law than they are their own department policy. The police then appealedagainasking the Supreme Court to intervene. The tactic is a common one used by government defendants, who have bottomless coffers of taxpayer dollars from which to pull. William Virgil, for example, filed suit in 2016 amid allegations that police framed him for murder; his conviction was overturned after he spent 28 years behind bars. Though the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit declined to give the officers involved qualified immunity, the government continued to pursue vacuous appeals. Earlier this year, the city of Newport, Kentucky, finalized a $28 million settlement, although Virgil will not be able to enjoy any of it, as he died in January 2022, after waiting years for the privilege to state his case before a jury. In May 2022, almost six years after Timpa's death, the high court rejected the government's request to intervene. A trial was set for July 2023. That was ultimately postponed after the presiding judge, Godbeywho penned the initial decision giving the officers qualified immunityreportedly expressed his discontent with media coverage of the case. So it wasn't until today, more than 85 months after Timpa's death, that Vicki, Timpa's mother, finally saw the jury that will decide if her family deserves recourse for the actions police took that night. It's a part of the race that many victims of government misconduct never seeand the trial has barely begun. The post Seven Years Since He Died Under a Cop's Knee, His Mom Is Getting Her Day in Court appeared first on Reason.com. Due to heavy rains in the region, Boston officials are urging the public to avoid swimming in certain waterways citing combined sewage overflows. The Boston Public Health Commission said the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority Outflow at Prison Point in Charlestown near the Charles River Dam experienced a discharge Monday afternoon around 2:45 p.m. The discharge will impact the Upper Inner Harbor and Charlestown, according to officials. Residents are asked to avoid contact with the affected waterways for at least 48 hours after the sewage overflow because of the increased health risks from bacteria and other pollutants. The MWRA website and the Boston Water and Sewer Commission will be providing updates on the sewage overflows. A combined sewage overflow occurs when a large storm overwhelms the combined sewerage system, causing rainwater to mix with wastewater and discharge to nearby water bodies, according to authorities. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Raleigh police are searching for a man accused of sexual assault near N.C. State University just before noon on Monday. The man allegedly forced a victim into a vehicle shortly after 11 a.m. near Hillsborough Street, then drove to another location and sexually assaulted them, according to university police. He did not display or use a weapon, a Wolf Alert notice stated. The victim, whose identity isnt being released, is identified as being affiliated with the university, The suspect was described as a Black male in his 20s, who is about 5-foot-7 or -8 inches tall, with black hair in short twists, according to the Raleigh Police Department. He is described to have been wearing a black T-shirt with a white graphic and blue gym shorts. The suspect was operating a blue sedan and left the area in an unknown direction of travel. The Raleigh Police Department urges anyone with information about this case to call 911 or 919-878-3561. Sex crimes at NC State this semester This incident is the third sex crime reported at or near N.C. State so far this semester. Two separate sex crimes on N.C. States campus were reported within 24 hours of each other during the first week of school. A few days earlier, a man was charged with indecent exposure for the eighth time after allegedly showing his genitals to a female student at D.H. Hill Library on campus. The exterior of the Sheboygan Police Department as seen, Monday, February 13, 2023, in Sheboygan, Wis. SHEBOYGAN The boyfriend of a former Sheboygan police officer wants a judge to review the Board of Police and Fire Commissioners' dismissal of his complaint alleging the police chief mishandled investigations into sexual assault within the police department. Justin Daniels first filed a complaint with the Sheboygan Police Department in February. Days later, the City of Sheboygan's HR director, Adam Westbrook, informed Daniels that the city would not be looking into the complaint, because "there was insufficient information to proceed with an investigation at that point," Sheboygan City Attorney Chuck Adams said. Daniels then filed a complaint with the Sheboygan Board of Police and Fire Commissioners in April. The Board of Police and Fire Commissioners is a five-member citizen oversight board tasked with disciplining police officers and firefighters. An evidentiary hearing into Daniels' complaint had been scheduled for July 11, but at an oral motion June 27, the Board dismissed Daniels' complaint because he missed a filing deadline. According to the Board of Police and Fire Commissioners' policies and procedures, a complaint against a police officer or firefighter must first be filed with the police or fire department. If a citizen is not satisfied with the decision made by the police or fire department, they can then file a complaint with the Board but no later than 10 days after the department's decision. Daniels, the board said in its June 27 decision, filed his complaint 37 days after the deadline. Daniels filed a petition for a writ of certiorari, which is a court process that seeks judicial review of a decision made by a lower court or government agency, in Sheboygan County Circuit Court Aug. 16. In the petition, he states that "excusable neglect" should apply, because he "did not do anything in bad faith," and the late submitting of the complaint "did not hinder the process or prejudice the chief of police in any way." What does Daniels allege in his complaint? Daniels' complaint claims Sheboygan Police Chief Christopher Domagalski botched the response to investigations into sexual misconduct within the police department that were conducted between January and May of 2021. As a result of three internal investigations, 12 officers out of the 62-officer patrol force were disciplined or verbally admonished for sexual misconduct. The harshest penalty, given to former officer Bryan Pray, was a two-week unpaid suspension. Sheboygan Police Chief Christopher Domagalski stands at the podium at Sheboygan City Hall, Monday, January 9, 2022, in Sheboygan, Wis. Daniels argues this was not an adequate penalty, and that the police department's policies continue to allow unacceptable behavior to continue. Among the findings of sexual misconduct from the 2021 investigations was an incident where Pray took a partially nude photograph of a former officer and shared it with other officers without her consent. The officer, identified in the investigation reports as Officer 8, reported a 2019 incident following a training in which officers were instructed to drink heavily to practice using a breathalyzer, then continued to drink afterward. In a hotel hallway, Officer 8 lifted her shirt and "flashed" Pray, at his request. Pray took a photo. RELATED: Sexual harassment scandal roils Sheboygan Police Department When Pray showed the officer the photo the next morning, she told him to delete it. Pray said he would, but did not. The next year, he showed the image to other Sheboygan police officers while on duty, despite knowing Officer 8 would most definitely feel embarrassed and demeaned as a result, according to records. Daniels argues in his complaint that this incident should have warranted a criminal investigation. State law prohibits creating or sharing nude images taken without consent where the person depicted had a reasonable expectation of privacy. Depending on the facts of the case, it can be a Class I felony, punishable by up to 3.5 years imprisonment and a $10,000 fine. Officers convicted of felonies can face decertification, which bars them from working in law enforcement in Wisconsin. Daniels filed a similar complaint in Sheboygan County Circuit Court in December requesting a court determine if Pray committed a crime. A Calumet County judge appointed a special prosecutor to the case, Matthew Leusink, the Waushara County district attorney. The case is pending, with no current hearing dates scheduled. Despite the board's dismissal, Daniels is trying to get an evidentiary hearing to present evidence that Chief Domagalski and other admistrators mishandled the response and are responsible for allowing sexual misconduct. "I think this department has a long history, even since this incident, of mistreating women," Daniels said. Sheboygan County District Attorney Joel Urmanski, in January 2023, placed Pray on a Brady list, a list of law enforcement officers with potential credibility issues, which Urmanski is required by law to provide to defense attorneys. Pray resigned the following month, in February 2023, about two years after the investigation of Officer 8's complaint. What does Daniels ask in the appeal? Daniels' petition to Sheboygan County Circuit Court argues his complaint should not have been dismissed "on a simple oversight," and that an evidentiary hearing should be held so all evidence may be properly presented. In his petition, Daniels challenges the time limit rule, and questioned why the Board of Police and Fire Commissioners was not provided the complaint until a hearing May 9, when he filed his complaint with the board April 12. RELATED: Top Sheboygan officials lacked key details on police department sexual harassment probes "I also argue if that time frame is so important and necessary, then the City Attorney should not be withholding the complaint from the PFC for an additional 30 days or so," Daniels' petition reads. Adams said this was simply procedural; Board members cannot receive a complaint individually, so they had to wait until a meeting when all commissioners were present. "They received it timely," Adams said. However, Bob Lettre, a former president of the Board of Police and Fire Commissioners who has continued attending meetings involving the sexual misconduct situation since his term was not renewed by the commission in spring 2022, said during his 29 years on the Board, meetings to address complaints or other issues were set up within days. What else do we know about the investigation into sexual misconduct within the police department? About four months into the 2021 investigation into her complaint, Officer 8 resigned, citing a hostile work environment. Then-Sheboygan Human Resources Director Vicky Schneider expressed concerns that the police department's investigation into sexual misconduct was not adequate. Because of her concerns, the city hired outside attorneys to review the police department's investigation in the summer of 2021, Mayor Ryan Sorenson told the Sheboygan Press earlier this year. However, after Officer 8 filed a complaint a few months later with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development's Equal Rights Division, alleging workplace discrimination and retaliation, the city of Sheboygan pivoted the external review of whether the internal investigation was done properly to an investigation focused on defending the city against Officer 8s complaint. In February 2022, Schneider filed her own complaint with the state's Equal Rights Division, alleging former city administrator Todd Wolf retaliated against her after she spoke about her concerns. According to the Department of Workforce Development, Schneider withdrew her claims with the Equal Rights Division July 3. Adams said the withdrawal of a complaint with the Equal Rights Division doesn't necessarily mean the case is complete. A person may withdraw a complaint if they plan to bypass the Department of Workforce Development and go directly to court. But police records show allegations of sexual misconduct did not end after the 2021 investigations. RELATED: Sheboygan police oversight board to hear complaint against police chief regarding his handling of sexual harassment complaint In June, the Sheboygan Press received a redacted report from Chief Domagalski of an internal investigation conducted in January into another allegation of sexual misconduct by Pray. While the internal investigation found that the allegation of discriminatory sexual harrassment was "unfounded," it did determine Pray violated other department policies that he had just been reprimanded for in June 2021 including engaging in conduct that is "unbecoming of a member of the department," neglecting work duties, and accessing protected information for non-work-related purpose. The report includes interviews with Pray and a female officer. Both indicated they had shown each other pornographic videos during a conversation between their squad cars on an afternoon in January. Pray told the investigator the female officer first made the conversation sexual, while the female officer said Pray was the one to direct the conversation that way. "The actions of the officer's proven offense and the record of the officer being disciplined for the same offense in a short period of time demonstrates the officer's inability to comprehend what is required of the officer to complete the officer's duties to the standard expected of the Sheboygan Police Department," the report states. Pray resigned Feb. 8., days after the internal investigation was completed and after Wisconsin Watch and the Sheboygan Press published a story on the Sheboygan Police Department's handling of sexual misconduct among officers. RELATED: Former Sheboygan human resources director alleges she was retaliated against for opposing sexual harassment in the workplace Contact Kelli Arseneau at 920-213-3721 or karseneau@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter at @ArseneauKelli. CONTINUE YOUR SUPPORT: Thanks to our subscribers for making this coverage possible. Be sure to download our app on the App Store or Google Play. Follow us on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Newsletters This article originally appeared on Sheboygan Press: Sheboygan police oversight board dismisses complaint against chief All of these shows produced a truly great stand-alone episodeone that exemplifies the best of what television can be and makes total sense if youve never watched the rest of the series. From classic bottle episodes to daring formal experiments, Slate staffers have rounded up the most memorable installments of television that can stand entirely on their own, and where to watch them. Its a true gift in an era when it feels like theres both endless TV and nothing to watch. Plus: Jenny G. Zhang asked showrunners and TV writers to pick their favorites. Photo illustration by Slate. Photos by Leon Neal/Getty Images, Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images, and Getty Images Plus. Its a waste of time for Democrats to moan about replacing Biden and Harris, David Faris writesthe cake is baked for 2024, and now we all have to er, eat it? He explains why trying to change the Democratic ticket would cause more problems than it would solve. People stress about elderly parents watching Fox News or OAN. But theres another channel thats even worseand Maud Newtons mother is hooked on it. Photo illustration by Slate. Photos by Alex Wong/Getty Images and Warner Bros. Coming fresh off the Beetlejuice vaping (and other things) scandal, Lauren Boebert will now help decide whether to shut down the government. Ben Mathis-Lilley reflects on the wonders of U.S. democracy. And in related political news: Jim Newell explains why the Freedom Caucus is outraged at its own government funding bill. Rebecca Onion has discovered the best form of cardio for people who otherwise cant stand cardio. She explains why youll find her carrying around a weighted backpack. Photo illustration by Slate. Photos by Seth Wenig/Pool/Getty Images, Mario Tama/Getty Images, Drew Angerer/Getty Images, Fulton County Sheriffs Office via Getty Images, Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images, and Getty Images Plus. Its more likely than you might think! Legal experts explained to Shirin Ali why theyre not too worried about the ability of the courts to assemble unbiased juries for one of the most polarizing people in America. Photo illustration by Slate. Photos by Bill Pugliano/Getty Images, Jamie Squire/Getty Images, and Ben Jackson/Getty Images. much like the struggles Michigan has faced in recent years: Factory closures, population loss, Motown Records moving to Los Angeles, Ohio State beating Michigan like 20 times in a row, Ben Mathis-Lilley writes. Its been a tough time for the Great Lakes Statebut the United Auto Workers strike is just the latest example of how things are turning around. Thanks so much for reading! Well see you tomorrow. People visit a nostalgic vehicle exhibition in downtown Budapest, Hungary on Sept. 17, 2023. The exhibition was held here on Sept. 16 and 17, offering people an opportunity to meet aged trams and buses. (Photo by Attila Volgyi/Xinhua) People visit a nostalgic vehicle exhibition in downtown Budapest, Hungary on Sept. 17, 2023. The exhibition was held here on Sept. 16 and 17, offering people an opportunity to meet aged trams and buses. (Photo by Attila Volgyi/Xinhua) People visit a nostalgic vehicle exhibition in downtown Budapest, Hungary on Sept. 17, 2023. The exhibition was held here on Sept. 16 and 17, offering people an opportunity to meet aged trams and buses. (Photo by Attila Volgyi/Xinhua) People visit a nostalgic vehicle exhibition in downtown Budapest, Hungary on Sept. 17, 2023. The exhibition was held here on Sept. 16 and 17, offering people an opportunity to meet aged trams and buses. (Photo by Attila Volgyi/Xinhua) This article was originally published in CalMatters. As a new school year gets underway in California, districts are desperately trying to lure thousands of missing, tardy and truant students back to the classroom in what many view as a pivotal moment for education in California. In 2021-22, 30% of students in Californias public schools were chronically absent, an all-time high and more than three times the pre-pandemic rate. Advocates fear that unless schools can reverse the trend, so many students will fall behind that they may never catch up. This is a crisis, and its not going to change until we do everything we can to get kids back in school 100%, said Heather Hough, director of Policy Analysis for California Education. What we all fear is that this will become the new normal. It is hard to overstate the importance of this issue, and it is absolutely a pivotal moment. Before the pandemic, about 10% of students in Californias public schools missed at least 10% (or 18 days) in a school year, which the state defines as chronically absent. But COVID-related school closures, remote learning and quarantines have created a new habit for millions of families: optional, not mandatory, daily school attendance. Related Attendance Gap: New Data from Minnesota Reveals Chasm in Chronic Absenteeism Even though California law requires all children ages 6 through 18 to attend school every day, nearly 2 million students were chronically absent in 2021-22, the most recent year data is available. Nearly every group of students had high rates of absenteeism, but the highest rates were among kindergartners. Kindergartners who are Black, Pacific Islander or have disabilities all had rates of 50% or higher. Students line up on the first day of school at Loma Vista Elementary School in Salinas on Aug. 8. (Semantha Norris/CalMatters) Students specific reasons for missing school are varied. Lack of transportation is among the most common reasons, but sometimes students have to look after younger siblings or go to work. In some cases, students stay home because theyre being bullied or dont like their teachers. After COVID, some parents have become overly cautious about sending their children to school with minor ailments. Personal connections have made all the difference at an elementary school in Salinas thanks in part to a school secretary the students call Miss Cathy. As students and their parents file into Loma Vista Elementary every morning, Catalina Cisneros greets them by name, gives them hugs and catches up in Spanish, the predominant language in that part of the city. Cisneros, a Salinas native, said she understands the struggles that families face as they raise their children while working long hours, sometimes starting their days at 4 a.m. in the nearby lettuce fields. I treat the parents how Id like to be treated, with empathy and compassion, said Cisneros, who started working at Loma Vista Elementary three years ago. We have to, because we want the kids in school. The parents want their kids in school, too. Theyre doing the best they can, and sometimes its hard. I get that. Catalina Cisneros, secretary at Loma Vista Elementary School, gets a hug from a student on the first day of school in Salinas on Aug. 8. (Semantha Norris/CalMatters) Absenteeism has myriad negative impacts. For students, theyre more likely to fall behind academically, drop out and not graduate. For schools, lower attendance means less revenue from the state, which bases its funding on how many students show up every day. For teachers, poor attendance means halfempty classrooms, with some students who are weeks or months behind their peers. There are legal implications, as well. In extreme cases, local district attorneys can get involved, citing and fining parents or students who persistently flout the mandatory attendance law. Alarmed at the extent of the crisis, the Legislature is intervening. The Assembly recently asked Houghs organization, Policy Analysis for California Education, to study the issue and come up with recommendations. Related Enrollment Continues to Decline in LAUSD, a Trend Many Large Public School Districts are Also Experiencing The findings could lead to legislation that would address the issue directly. A few possibilities include increased accountability at the local level, such as offering districts more incentives to get students back in class; better data collection; and broader efforts to make school a more attractive place for students to be. In response to the pandemic, the state has already invested billions in initiatives aimed at boosting student engagement, including: Its unclear how much impact these programs have had so far, or if theyll survive once COVID relief funding expires or the state budget tightens. But in any case, the state needs to do more, said Assembly Budget Chair Phil Ting, a Democrat representing San Francisco. Its worrisome that kids are still staying home from school in record numbers, Ting said. Our investments in universal school meals, after-school programs and home-to-school transportation have not been enough to bring students back. Ting said hes hopeful that studying the issue will lead to solutions. When children dont regularly attend class, they fall behind on their lessons, and they are more likely to drop out some as early as kindergarten. The implications of a less-educated generation are great, he said. We need to understand why attendance is below pre-COVID levels, so that we can better direct state resources and education leaders where theyll be most effective in re-engaging students. Absenteeism has been so high in the Salinas City Elementary District approaching 40% last year that the district convened a group of teachers, administrators, counselors and others to brainstorm how to get students back in the classroom. Among the steps is encouraging office staff to be friendly, welcoming and non-judgmental, even when students are late or absent for long periods. Another step is talking to the families and students who have struggled the most with attendance, and addressing the specific reasons they cant get to school. In some cases, families said the bus pickup time was too early. So the district purchased a fleet of vans that could do shorter bus routes, allowing for later pickup times. Other families said their children didnt want to go to school because they felt anxious or bullied, so the district connected students with counselors, tried to end the bullying and worked to improve the overall campus climate. Some students said they simply hate school, so the district arranged for them to transfer to a school that might be a better fit. The efforts appear to be working. In 2021-22, the districts chronic absenteeism rate was 38%, almost triple the pre-pandemic rate and well above the state average. By January, it had fallen to 29%, and last week it had fallen to 21%. Loma Vista, which had one of the districts highest absenteeism rates 46% in 2021-22 saw its rate drop to just over 24% so far this school year. The numbers are important, said Superintendent Rebeca Andrade, but students success is more important. The pandemic was particularly hard on the community, and families in the low-income agricultural region have struggled to rebound. To see so many kids missing school it wasnt just frustrating. It was heartbreaking, Andrade said. School is supposed to be a safe place, and too many students were missing that. We knew we had to do something. Stemming absenteeism ultimately may be up to individual schools and staff, said Hedy Chang, executive director of the advocacy group Attendance Works. For starters, health standards need to change, she said. Schools should promote better preventative care for students, but also convince parents that COVID is no longer a public health emergency and children should not miss school for every sniffle or tummy ache. But more importantly, school staff must work directly with families to address the specific reasons for absenteeism, taking into account language and cultural barriers, and build strong personal relationships with parents and students, she said. We need to create those deep connections, so every child knows that theres an adult waiting with open arms to welcome them to school, Chang said. That needs to be the new normal. Maria Perez, a parent at Loma Vista, said she wakes up at 5:30 a.m. to get her fourth grade daughter to school in time to be at her job at a Castroville fruit distribution center by 8 a.m. It doesnt help, she said, when her daughter oversleeps or doesnt feel well. Sometimes its a challenge. I tell her, its going to be a good day, its alright, dont worry, Perez said. Its important she goes to school because I want her to meet people, to make friends, to learn, to be someone in life. Parent Leslie Naranjo, who dropped four of her six kids off at Loma Vista on a recent morning, said getting out the door every day can be a Herculean task. She hasnt always been as punctual as shed like to be, but shes trying: She now puts out her kids clothes the night before, bought a shoe rack so theyre not constantly searching for lost shoes, and has them shower before bed instead of in the morning. Its all helped, she said, but its Miss Cathys smiles that have made the difference. When we come in, she always says, Hi! Shes always so happy to see us, Naranjo said. The kids see shes excited to be here, so they get excited. It works. This story was originally published at CalMatters. PHOENIX - Ruby Foote and her two young daughters were homeless again, crashing with relatives back on the Navajo Nation reservation. So the pitch from a family friend felt like an answered prayer: room and board in a Phoenix sober-living home for at least a year and treatment for Foote's longtime drinking habit. But at the sober home, tensions flared between residents, Foote recalled. Her 10-year-old daughter felt bullied. And Foote dipped into her own government benefits to buy food for others. Addiction treatment, she said, consisted of long classes at a stuffy outpatient clinic owned by the same people that operated the sober home. Subscribe to The Post Most newsletter for the most important and interesting stories from The Washington Post. Then, two months later, Foote abruptly found herself homeless again. The outpatient clinic affiliated with the sober home was suspended from Arizona's Medicaid program amid suspicion of filing bogus bills - one of more than 200 outpatient clinics to face such a fate this year, according to state officials. The sober home, in turn, was shuttered. And Foote had become ensnared in a sprawling web of alleged fraud. "I'm still really upset with how we were used," Foote, 56, said. "These people need to be stopped." In a state beset by the despair of homelessness and addiction, officials are still untangling the extent of alleged fraud committed by unscrupulous treatment centers and group homes during the past three years. Officials assert the schemes may have cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars, while sparking wide-reaching fraud investigations, dozens of indictments, and an overhaul of billing practices by Arizona's Medicaid agency for crucial mental health and addiction treatment services. Officials say the scheme has disproportionately affected Native Americans, with many left hundreds of miles from their families who remain back on reservations in northern Arizona, New Mexico and as far as Montana. Navajo Nation leaders declared a public health emergency and created a task force to scour the sweltering streets of Phoenix for the displaced. Separately, an Arizona grass-roots group called Stolen People, Stolen Benefits has fielded calls, texts and Facebook messages from relatives of missing tribal members. The group, which relies on donations and hands out care packages on the Phoenix streets, says it has arranged bus trips and airfares for at least 100 tribal members wanting to return home. "We've been going nonstop," said Reva Stewart, who co-founded the group after her cousin was lured into a Phoenix sober home. In August, the New Mexico attorney general unveiled a campaign warning unsheltered people from "being lured" into traveling across state lines "to illegitimate recovery facilities." The Blackfeet Nation in Montana in July declared a state of emergency aimed at helping displaced members, while one of the state's senators, Jon Tester (D), demanded an investigation from the federal agency that oversees Medicaid services. Officials have described clinics allegedly billing for treatment services for children who don't need help, or people who are dead or jailed. Clinics are suspected of falsely charging the state for patients who aren't Indian under a Medicaid program for Native Americans. Recruiters in white vans are suspected of enticing Native Americans into group homes, sometimes plying them with drugs and alcohol, while offering little or no treatment, investigators said. - - - 'It blows my mind' Across Arizona, the fallout has been pronounced. Attorney General Kris Mayes (D) in May called it "one of the biggest scandals" in state history. Fraud involving substance-use treatment has flourished alongside the nation's addiction crisis, with more than 100,000 fatal overdoses in the United States each of the past two years. During the past decade, major rings from California to Florida were discovered fraudulently billing state or federal health programs. Federal prosecutors in May secured fraud indictments against operators of sober homes in Massachusetts. In Arizona, the fraud allegedly targeted the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System, which administers federal Medicaid funds. The program covers 2.4 million people in Arizona, about 1 in 3 people in the state. More than 2,700 people died of drug overdoses in Arizona in 2022, federal estimates show. For tribal nations, the problem is acute: In recent years, the highest overdose death rates in the United States have been among Native Americans. The fraudulent activities, officials say, included exploiting a Medicaid code that allows centers providing intensive outpatient treatment to bill for counseling, classes and other therapy for patients with alcohol and drug-use problems. Generally, Arizona paid nearly 60 percent of bills filed under that code - with no questions asked, officials said. "Individuals engaged in these fraud schemes could get paid up to approximately $1,200 per day per person," said FBI Special Agent Antoinette Ferrari, who is investigating the alleged Medicaid fraud. It remains unclear why the fraud escalated when it did. Long-established providers say that about three years ago, they began noticing a spike in social media posts about new sober homes and outpatient treatment centers. Meanwhile, they said, it became increasingly difficult to buy vans - used to transport patients to treatment - as the number of providers skyrocketed. Investigators believe some sober homes have been working hand-in-hand with treatment clinics, which allegedly billed the state's Medicaid agency for exorbitant amounts and in turn kicked back money to the sober homes. In many cases, the operators of the homes and the clinics are the same, officials say. Officials have blamed a ring that allegedly committed similar crimes in Nevada before moving on to Arizona. Taxpayers in Arizona footed a hefty bill. In the 2019 fiscal year, the Medicaid program was billed under a behavioral-health code for $53 million, according to the attorney general's office. By 2022, that had soared to $668 million. Authorities are still figuring out how much of that billing was legitimate. "Some of these people dealing with addiction truly want help, and that's lost in all of this," said Kim Humphrey, executive director of the Phoenix nonprofit Parents of Addicted Loved Ones who has been hearing from frustrated relatives of patients who entered pop-up sober homes. Officials say much of the fraud involved the American Indian Health Program, which allows providers to bill for services directly to the state's Medicaid agency rather than through a managed care organization. The program required only an acknowledgment that someone was a tribal member. "It blows my mind there was no oversight. These are federal dollars," Navajo Nation Attorney General Ethel Branch said. "Our people deserved as much care and concern for how services are being delivered to them." To entice patients, officials say, recruiters flocked to flea markets and grocery stores on reservations in Arizona and New Mexico and outside homeless shelters, offering rooms in residential sober-living homes or even contracted hotels. The Arizona Department of Health Services licenses sober-living homes and behavioral health resident facilities, although many are believed to have been unlicensed. A few months ago in New Mexico, Lesheena Charley said, she was approached by a group of men outside the Albuquerque Indian Center, which feeds and assists the homeless. Charley, 35, said they offered her and other homeless people $100 gift cards to get in the vans and "kick drugs" at a treatment center in Phoenix. She declined - the men didn't have business cards or even fliers. "It didn't feel right," said Charley, who has grappled with heroin, meth and alcohol use. So many drug users and homeless people in Albuquerque began disappearing from the area that activist Christine Barber posted signs warning of the vans and compiled a list of the missing, now numbering more than 60. "We still have so many people missing," said Barber, who started a nonprofit called ASUR New Mexico and a street newsletter to warn of what she calls people brokers. - - - A crisis of homelessness Arizona has experienced an alarming rise in homelessness - 23 percent between 2020 and 2022, with many sleeping in cars, streets and parks, according to an annual report by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Like in cities across the nation, officials blame a lack of affordable housing. A state committee reported in December that Arizona is short 270,000 homes. Deonna Crawford, 32, a Phoenix nursing assistant and mother of four, got evicted this year after her rent increased. She said she and her family were living in a park when a homeless-outreach coordinator referred her to Mireille Wellness Clinic, the clinic affiliated with the same home where Foote stayed. Crawford saw red flags immediately, she said. She does not have an addiction problem but went to drug-treatment classes to stay sheltered. "I felt like it was my only option," Crawford said. Mireille's operator is listed in state records as Mireille Mukiza. Another woman, Angelique Kamagaju, was listed in a company document as the clinic's director of residency. Repeated emails, voice mails and text messages to both women went unanswered. A Phoenix attorney who represented Kamagaju in a zoning matter did not return a call or email seeking comment. Nobody associated with the clinic has been charged, and the Arizona Department of Health Services lists the facility as having an active license as an outpatient treatment center. Still, the Arizona Medicaid agency has the clinic on a list of providers suspected of fraudulent billing. Crawford, Foote and their families were housed in a five-bedroom chocolate-and-tan house on Atlantis Way in a subdivision about 13 miles from downtown Phoenix. Each day, adults were driven in vans to classes that consisted of YouTube videos and generic lectures about ways to stay sober, Crawford said. She remembered they twice watched the 2006 comedy "Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby." When Crawford's Medicaid-managed care insurance was running out, she says she was instructed by a clinic staffer to change to the American Indian Health Program. Crawford is not Native American. Mukiza and Kamagaju together own the Atlantis Way home, among other residential properties in Maricopa County, records show. The clinic in January also paid $3.4 million for a 10,200-square-foot mansion with a diving pool, a lazy river and an outdoor pizza oven, according to public records and real estate listings. One of Kamagaju's companies also owned a motel about an hour outside Phoenix that was used to house patients for the clinic, according to public records. - - - 'A game of whack-a-mole' Overall, the Arizona attorney general's office says its probes have resulted in at least 45 indictments. The state Medicaid agency continues to refer investigations to federal authorities, said Andy Stone, chief of the financial crimes and public corruption division at the U.S. attorney's office in Arizona. "This will be something our office will be working years in the future," Stone said. The FBI, IRS and Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General are also investigating. So far, the U.S. attorney's office has secured one indictment, against a woman named Diana Moore, who pleaded guilty to wire fraud and money laundering. Her case offers a window into how the fraud works: Between 2019 and 2022, Moore applied with the state's Medicaid agency to provide services for patients at her three behavioral-health-care facilities. To hide her ownership stake - and avoid disclosing a prior felony conviction, as required - Moore claimed others owned the facilities, according to a federal plea agreement. Moore paid other providers to ferry people to her facilities, often for a single day to record their state Medicaid ID numbers, the plea agreement said. Then, Moore submitted bogus bills claiming her homes were providing counseling services for up to 90 days - sometimes for eight or more hours each day, "five days a week, for months in a row," knowing such treatments were not taking place, the agreement notes. Moore even billed for people who were dead or in prison. In all, Arizona's Medicaid agency paid Moore's clinics $22.4 million. She purchased seven luxury cars, including four Mercedes-Benz vehicles, two Cadillac Escalades and a Land Rover Range Rover, plus dozens of other items, including designer purses, jewelry and art, according to court documents. Moore, who is scheduled to be sentenced Dec. 18, is forfeiting four properties. Moore's attorney did not respond to a request for comment. Arizona's Medicaid agency insists it implemented sweeping overhauls, pausing enrollment of new behavioral outpatient clinics and transportation operations for at least six months. The agency slashed what it is paying providers, and in July, it required that providers submit patient treatment plans before receiving payment. The Medicaid agency said the changes were needed for "the prevention of fraudulent activities by bad actors." The regulatory pendulum swing, however, could hurt long-established providers. "In an effort to eradicate the fraud in our communities, the state has made it increasingly difficult for even the good actors to deliver services to the Native American population," Lee Yaiva, CEO of Scottsdale Recovery Center, said in a statement. Officials instituted a phone line, 211, for displaced people to find services and housing, in conjunction with Operation Rainbow Bridge, the Navajo Nation's task force to locate its citizens. Since May, working with 211, officers have made contact with dozens of Navajos on the streets but far fewer than tribal officials had expected. Branch, the Navajo Nation's attorney general, believes "patient brokers" might be shuffling patients to facilities not on law enforcement's radar. "It's still a game of whack-a-mole," she said. On a summer weekday in Phoenix, longtime Navajo police Sgt. Roland Dash and Rainbow Bridge operations manager Harland C. Cleveland eased down 19th Avenue, a hardscrabble stretch of vape shops, taco joints and discount stores frequented by tribal members. Dash heads the missing persons unit in Tuba City, Ariz., where two years ago, young men who would normally get in trouble for public intoxication began vanishing and turning up in Phoenix. Cleveland and Dash scoured trolley stops, parks and gas stations looking to contact tribal members, offering them help to get back to the reservation or just a cold bottle of Gatorade. The temperature topped 110. Dash furiously scribbled notes in a steno pad. "I think we have a lot more out there that we haven't made contact with," Dash said. Cleveland peered through binoculars at men sitting under a billboard. Minutes later, the officers pulled over. Christopher Benally recounted how a recruiter approached him at a homeless shelter about two months before, promising treatment and new clothes if he provided his American Indian insurance information. Benally entered a group home, where he enjoyed a big-screen television in his room. "They kept giving me beer," Benally said. "They were getting me . . . drunk every day!" Benally doesn't want to return to the reservation. So Dash texted the man's sister back in Tuba City to let her know he was okay. Foote, the Navajo mother, wants to return to the reservation one day if she can get her life in order. She lost her 17-year-old daughter to a heart ailment in 2015. During the pandemic, Foote lost a niece to covid-19, then her mother to kidney cancer, and she and her two youngest mostly stayed in Phoenix during that period with her adult daughters, adding to already crowded homes. Many nights, she disappeared to parks and bus stops to drink cheap beer and Fireball Cinnamon Whisky. "It would make me forget my problems for a while," Foote said. Foote returned to the reservation for a few months before ending up back in Phoenix at the sober home. Today, Foote lives in a women's shelter, where she plans to stay for a few more months. She has managed to steer clear of alcohol and hopes to qualify as a caregiver for her 15-year-old daughter, who has a neurological condition, and receive payments through the girl's disability benefits. "And we're hoping to get our own apartment soon," Foote said. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has shared a video of his visits to the frontlines in southern and eastern Ukraine, where he met with combat brigades "Our soldiers, our heroes. The frontline. I'm proud of all of you! And thank you each brigade for your strength," he wrote in his Telegram channel on Sept. 18. Zelenskyy has visited several combat brigades directly involved in the Ukrainian counter-offensive since the beginning of September, including the operational-tactical groups command post in Donetsk Oblast and the Tavrias command post in Zaporizhzhya Oblast in the south of Ukraine on Sept. 4. Read also: Zelenskyy visits troops in Zaporizhzhya Oblast The following day, he visited combat brigades conducting offensive operations on the Bakhmut front in Ukraines eastern Donetsk Oblast. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Kirstin Mulqueeny, a bartender in downtown Raleigh, sent us a letter that was more than a comment. It was a plea. She wrote, Raleigh appears cut from the pages of a dystopian post-apocalyptic film, and the people who will be casualties are screaming from the rooftops for help. No one hears us. Mulqueeny works at Zenith, a bar on Fayetteville Street in the heart of Raleighs business district. The once-booming area has struggled to recover from the loss of office workers and foot traffic since the pandemic hit in early 2020. With cranes rising over downtown Raleigh as residential high-rises are constructed, the old bustle may yet return. But for now, Mulqueeny said, the street after dark is an unsettling mix of roving youths, homeless people, panhandlers and people selling and using drugs. She said the police are rarely seen. Mulqueeny, a 38-year-old mother of three who has worked at Raleigh bars for years, said the district feels unsafe as a place to work or visit. Anger and fear moved her to write to the paper. Im sick of it because its something every night, she told me. Its people peeing on our building. Its men rattling our windows at 3 a.m. when its just me and one other guy in there. Its people coming up and beating on the door. Its trash outside. Its customers saying they wont go to our bar past 12. Alexis Himes, 27, quit her bartending job at Zeniths neighboring bar, The Big Easy, out of frustration with what she called the sketchy environment. Groups camp out at the bars patio tables and employees are afraid to ask them to leave. One man threatened to stab her. Last week, a group of masked men, at least one of them armed, invaded The Big Easy just after closing time and forced the manager to empty the safe. Raleigh is such a cool city, its sad to see it infested with this amount of crime, Himes said. Gilbert Kusler, The Big Easys general manager, said part of the problem may stem from the suspension of bus fares and young people coming into downtown through the bus terminal. What were really experiencing, he said, is kids running rampant. Raleigh Mayor Mary-Ann Baldwin knows theres a problem in the business district. Weve received a number of complaints from downtown businesses and residents, she said. Many have asked if private security is an option. She tells them it is. The city is working with the Downtown Raleigh Alliance, a group supported by downtown businesses, to contract with a private security company to provide additional patrols in the district. This is a supplement to the police, Baldwin said. Our (police) chief has added officers downtown, but they cant be everywhere. The security guards will not be armed, she said, but they will be eyes on the ground. Other steps are planned. Street lighting will be added and community organizers will be recruited to give young people an alternative to roaming the district. Baldwin said mayors across the nation have told her her theyre facing similar problems in downtown districts that have lost activity since the pandemic. But letting the vacuum foster criminal behavior isnt an option. This is all unacceptable and weve got to do something about it, she said. She added, If people dont feel safe, they dont want to be downtown. We have to change that narrative and change that perspective. We have to arrest people who are breaking the law. Its as simple as that. Its encouraging that the city and the Downtown Raleigh Alliance are committed to bringing the law back to a district and there are signs of improvement. But its regrettable that the conditions declined to the point where a troop of security guards are needed. The new eyes on the ground should include regular walks around the district by City Council members and the police chief. Too much has gone wrong just blocks from City Hall while they were looking elsewhere. Associate opinion editor Ned Barnett can be reached at 919-404-7583, or nbarnett@ newsobserver.com FILE PHOTO: Ovidio Guzman, son of kingpin Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, is briefly captured by Mexican military police in a residential compound near the centre of Culiacan in the state of Sinaloa FILE PHOTO: Ovidio Guzman, son of kingpin Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, is briefly captured by Mexican military police in a residential compound near the centre of Culiacan in the state of Sinaloa By Eric Cox and Joseph Ax CHICAGO (Reuters) -Ovidio Guzman, one of the sons of incarcerated Mexican drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, pleaded not guilty to U.S. fentanyl trafficking charges on Monday in federal court in Chicago, prosecutors said, three days after his extradition from Mexico. Guzman, 33, is one of El Chapo's four sons, known as "Los Chapitos," who inherited their father's trafficking empire after his conviction on U.S. murder and drug charges in 2019. "El Chapo" Guzman is serving a life sentence in a maximum-security prison in Colorado. U.S. officials said Ovidio Guzman's arrest and extradition represents a significant victory in the Biden administration's campaign to stem the deadly flow of fentanyl across the southern border. Security analysts, however, doubted there would be a major change in U.S. security ties with Mexico under President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who curbed cooperation after assuming office in December 2018. During a brief hearing under tight security, Guzman, wearing an orange jumpsuit with his ankles shackled, listened to the proceeding through a Spanish interpreter, the Chicago Tribune reported. Outside the courtroom, Guzman's lawyer Jeffrey Lichtman told reporters his client was "not planning on cooperating against his brothers", who are some of the world's most wanted drug lords. Guzman was briefly arrested in Culiacan in the northern state of Sinaloa in 2019. But Lopez Obrador ordered him released after hundreds of Sinaloa Cartel gunmen overwhelmed security forces in the city. Guzman was captured again in January after an intense firefight. The U.S. requested his extradition in February. At the time of his arrest Guzman was the principal figure for Los Chapitos' fentanyl manufacturing and distribution business, according to U.S. authorities, even though his elder brother Ivan is the overall leader of the powerful faction. Ovidio controlled the first fentanyl lab set up by Los Chapitos around 2014 and has "overseen the explosion of their fentanyl trafficking activity and profits", according to an indictment unsealed in April by U.S. prosecutors in New York. Guzman also established an "outpost" in Mexico City for bulk heroin purchasers go to buy fentanyl to mix with heroin, part of Los Chapitos' growth strategy to drive users of other drugs towards fentanyl, the April indictment said. Two of the six counts Guzman faces in Chicago carry a mandatory life sentence, prosecutors said, according to the Tribune. The U.S. agreed not to pursue the death penalty as part of its extradition negotiation with Mexico, the Chicago Tribune said. Guzman waived his right to a detention hearing and will be held without bail until trial, a spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney's office in Chicago said. His next court date is scheduled for November. POLITICAL PRESSURE Fentanyl, a highly addictive synthetic opioid, is responsive for nearly 200 American deaths a day, a toll that has strained U.S.-Mexico relations and put domestic pressure on the Biden administration to slow the spread of the deadly drug. Guillermo Valdes, Mexico's former civilian spy chief between 2007-2011, said Guzman was probably extradited due to the intense U.S. pressure and to give Lopez Obrador's administration political breathing room at home, where opponents have accused his party of aiding the Sinaloa Cartel. "It is good for Biden to have Ovidio already there (ahead of U.S. elections). And it helps Lopez Obrador to get rid of the image that he is protecting the Sinaloa cartel," Valdes said. One former senior U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) official said Guzman's extradition is unlikely to herald a change in approach by Lopez Obrador, and is designed to fend off criticism that Mexico's government is soft on drug traffickers. "Ovidio is a sacrificial lamb," said the former agent who requested anonymity. "He's one of those guys theyre able to throw out there and say 'we are doing all we can'. But it's all smoke and mirrors," the former agent said. (Reporting by Eric Cox and Joseph Ax; Additional reporting by Kanishka Singh; editing by Grant McCool) How do you learn to fly? Its a question many superhero films and series have tried to answer, from the stuttering lift-offs of Man of Steel to the sudden vertical revelation of Neo at the end of The Matrix. In the deluge of diminishing returns that superhero media has become, adding another show to the mix that attempts its own answer might feel like too much. Hulus big-budget South Korean superhero drama, Moving, however, is making waves for all the right reasons. (In the 65 other countries where the show is available, it streams on Disney+.) With a take on superpowers that feels fresh, heartfelt, and keeps the weepy among us persistently dehydrated with how adorable it is. Based on webtoon of the same name by Kang Fullwho also penned the screenplayMovings first seven episodes follow Kim Bong-seok (Lee Jung-ha), the sweetest boy in the world who floats when hes happy, and his mother Mi-hyun (Han Hyo-joo) as they try to keep his ability under wraps. Superpowers may be the pinnacle of nerd wish-fulfillment over here, but in Moving theyre just one more thing for a parent to worry about. Bong-seoks bedroom is covered in nets to stop him lifting off, but Mi-hyun extends those nets around the rest of his life by feeding him huge meals, making him drink liters of water, and sending him to school strapped with weights to keep him rooted to the ground. Unsurprisingly, Bong-seok is light on friends. Moving Hulu These efforts are derailed when Jang Hui-soo (Go Young-jang) transfers to Bong-seoks class. Shes hiding her own superpowers while worrying about her chicken frying, superpowered cinnamon roll of a father Jang Ju-won (Ryu Seung-ryong). As Hui-soo and Bong-seok get closer, Bong-seok finds it increasingly difficult to stay grounded. He tells her strong emotions trigger his flight but, well, Ill leave you to make your own jokes about a teenage boy who floats every time his crush touches him. This superpowered meet-cute is interrupted by Frank (Ryoo Seung-bum), who is sent by the U.S. government to murder superpowered Koreans. As he circles towards Bong-seok and Hui-soos parents, the show warps us back in time to contextualize the older generation who, it turns out, were all superpowered black ops agents. What follows is a sequence of spy thrillers, labor disputes, and gangster noirs, all set against a backdrop of resentment against Americas historical imperialistic policies in Korea and North-South tensions. Loved Netflixs One Piece? Heres 10 Things to Watch Next These detours feel unnecessary given how strong Bong-seok and Hui-soos story is on its own, especially the conversion of the subtext surrounding their parents into textthough the genres within this seven episode interlude are expertly handled by director Park In-Je. We miss our two faves, but learning about Bong-seoks father Doo-sik (Zo In-sung) and Ju-wons relationship with coffee-delivering sex worker Hwang Ji-hee (Kwak Sun-young) does lead somewhere beyond just making us cry in the moment. (It also took me over an hour of watching to understand that Ji-hee wasnt simply delivering coffee to seedy motels in the middle of the night, because apparently Im pathetically naive.) All of this storyline is helped by Movings estimated 50 billion won (around $38 million) budget, which makes it one of South Koreas most expensive showseach episode costing an estimated $1.9 million. It shows, too. Moving is beautifully choreographed, tightly written, and possesses unusually strong CGI for a K-drama. For that investment, Disneyowner of a majority stake in Huluhas pushed Moving hard in East Asia and it shouldnt come as a surprise that its become the most-watched show in South Korea. That its also the most-watched K-drama on HuluDisney+ if youre nastyis harder to pin down. Korean TV is enjoying surging popularity since Squid Game and streamers investments are testament to how profitable its becomewith the caveat that Netflix apparently doesnt pay anyone in Korea either. But Movings popularity is a major milestoneone made more impressive considering Disney does nothing to promote its South Korean content in the west. Instead, Moving has become something of a word-of-mouth sensation and a timely reminder that superhero fatigue is really a reaction to a string of lackluster movies and series in the genre; good superhero media still plays well. And Moving is a good superhero show, very goodsomething it achieves by being surprisingly light on superheroics. Hulu Superheroes arent aspirational in Moving, theyre not pinnacles of evolution, and theyre not pursued by superpowered big bads. Theyre just people. People who happen to be superpowered. People who, above all else, are surpassingly lonely. Theyre not leading us to a brighter future, theyre not rich, theyre not even that durable. The superheroes of Moving are just trying to survive in a world that ostracizes them for being different, surrounding them with people unable, and unwilling, to empathize with their perceived otherness. Their very existence is perceived as a violence. As well as Western superhero movies play in Korea, Moving ignores all their tropes and uses superpowers to facilitate an examination of humanity at the perceived fringes of society. When their powers are revealed, Bong-seok, Hui-soo, and taciturn classmate Lee Gang-hoon (Kim Do-hoon) arent celebrated, theyre treated with suspicion. Thats something thats echoed in the experiences of Ju-won, Gang-hoons father Jae-man (Kim Sung-kyun), and Mi-hyun. Its here that the seemingly tangential narratives of Movings multigenerational story weave together, as we see that, between Doo-sik and Bong-seoks time, nothings changed. Theyre still monsters, still used by the government, and still not truly regarded as people. Doesnt that all sound so familiar in 2023? But Movings focus on a boy who can lift off the ground doesnt feel coincidental to its ultimately uplifting tone. As with many Korean series, Moving spends a lot of time on the horrible stuff, but at its heart is a story about people learning that, for the first time, theyre not alone. Exiled into a male-dominated field and given an assignment simply because shes a total babe, Mi-hyun meets Doo-sik, someone as disillusioned with the Korean government as her. Ju-won uses his powers to protect people, but its not until he meets Ji-hee that someone makes beating perverts to a pulp mean something. These are people being seen for the first time and its both heartbreaking and life-affirming. Netflixs One Piece Features an Absurdly High Number of Hats Watching Bong-seok and Hui-soo share meals knowing its the first time either have experienced companionship, seeing them edge closer as he helps her do sit-ups, or watching him turn floating to flying simply because he loves Hui-soothe heart actually melts. Its all so real, so nostalgic, and we just dont want anything to happen to them, okay? Only good things are allowed for Bong-seok and Hui-soo from now on! It all makes calling Moving a superhero series feel too simplistic; too pandering to superhero medias domination of our screens. Moving is a series about finding ones place in the world and holding onto it for dear life. Superpowers are just the vehicle but homewhatever that looks like to youis the destination. It makes Moving by far and away the best superhero show of the year. Whats most impressive about it, however, is that it achieves this by not really being about superheroes. Keep obsessing! Sign up for the Daily Beasts Obsessed newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. By Andrew Mills, Humeyra Pamuk and Parisa Hafezi DOHA/NEW YORK (Reuters) -A U.S.-bound plane carrying five Americans freed by Iran left Doha on Monday as part of a prisoner swap for five Iranians held in the United States and the transfer of $6 billion in Iranian funds, marking a rare deal between the long-time antagonists. "Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home," U.S. President Joe Biden said in a statement shortly before the U.S. detainees descended the stairs of a Qatari jet in Doha to be embraced by U.S. diplomats. The White House confirmed a plane carrying the five, along with two U.S. family members who left Tehran with them earlier, was en route to the United States, where they were to be offered medical treatment by the U.S. military as they adjust to freedom. Separately, Iran's state-owned Press TV said the five Iranians held by the United States and charged with committing crimes had been freed, an apparent reference to their being granted clemency, and that two of them had landed in Tehran. The other three are not expected to return to Iran. "This was purely a humanitarian action," Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi said after arriving in New York for the annual U.N. General Assembly. "It can certainly be a step based upon which in the future other humanitarian actions can be taken." It was unclear whether the exchange might bring progress on the many issues that divide the two nations, including Iran's nuclear program, its support for regional Shi'ite militias, the presence of U.S. troops in the Gulf and U.S. sanctions on Iran. Relations between the United States and Iran, adversaries for more than 40 years, have been especially bitter since former U.S. President Donald Trump in 2018 reneged on a deal to curb Iran's nuclear program and reimposed U.S. sanctions. Washington suspects the program may aim to develop nuclear weapons - an ambition Tehran denies - that could threaten Israel or U.S. Gulf Arab allies. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken left the door open to diplomacy on the nuclear file, which he described as "perhaps the number one issue of concern," but suggested nothing was imminent. "In this moment, we're not engaged on that, but we'll see in the future if there are opportunities," he told reporters in New York. U.S. analysts voiced skepticism that progress was likely soon on the nuclear or other issues. "The prisoner swap does likely pave the way for additional diplomacy around the nuclear program this fall, although the prospect for actually reaching a deal is very remote," said Henry Rome of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. "Removing an irritant is different from adding a salve," said Jon Alterman of the Center of Strategic and International Studies. FRESH SANCTIONS In a sign Biden, a Democrat, wishes to appear tough on Iran and perhaps blunt Republican criticism, he announced fresh U.S. sanctions on Iran's former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and its intelligence ministry for "involvement in wrongful detentions." "We will continue to impose costs on Iran for their provocative actions in the region," he said in the statement, in which he thanked the governments of Qatar, Oman, Switzerland and South Korea for their assistance in securing the releases. Qatar mediated indirect U.S.-Iran talks on the detainees while Switzerland, which represents U.S. interests in Tehran because the United States and Iran do not diplomatic relations, helped with the transfer of funds from South Korea to Qatar. A plane sent by Qatar flew the five U.S. citizens and two of their relatives out of Tehran after both sides got confirmation the $6 billion was transferred from South Korea to Qatari accounts, a source briefed on the matter told Reuters. A prominent Republican, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul, said the transfer of the $6 billion would likely lead to more detentions of U.S. citizens by Iran. "I am very concerned that this $6 billion hostage deal incentivizes future hostage-taking," McCaul said in an emailed statement. "There is no question this deal will free up funds for Iran's malign activities." Biden aides argue the money belongs to Iran and is being transferred from restricted South Korean accounts to restricted Qatari accounts, where it can only be spent on food, medicine and other humanitarian items with U.S. oversight. Earlier, two of the five Iranians landed in Qatar, a U.S. official said. Three have opted not to return to Iran. One of the five freed Americans had been held for about eight years on charges Washington rejected as baseless. The deal, after months of talks in Qatar, removes a major irritant between the U.S., which brands Tehran a sponsor of terrorism, and Iran, which calls Washington the "Great Satan". The U.S. dual citizens released include Siamak Namazi, 51, and Emad Sharqi, 59, both businessmen, and Morad Tahbaz, 67, an environmentalist who also holds British nationality. The identities of the fourth and fifth U.S. citizens were not disclosed at their request given their desire for privacy. Iranian officials have named the five Iranians released by the U.S. as Mehrdad Moin-Ansari, Kambiz Attar-Kashani, Reza Sarhangpour-Kafrani, Amin Hassanzadeh and Kaveh Afrasiabi. (Reporting by Andrew Mills in Doha, Elwely Elwelly in Dubai; and Hyonshee Shin in Seoul; Rami Ayyub and Doina Chiacu in Washington; Steve Holland and Humeyra Pamuk in New York and Parisa Hafezi at the United Nations; Writing by Edmund Blair and Arshad Mohammed; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne, William Maclean and Timothy Gardner) A Southern Indiana woman has been sentenced for sending hoax bomb threats about several locations, including one to the school that employed her as a substitute teacher. Mary Fortner, 35, of Milltown, drew a 10-month federal prison sentence and three years of probation from U.S. District Court Judge Sarah Evans Barker. Fortner pleaded guilty in the case. In an affidavit filed by an FBI agent in the case, investigators say Fortner sent a text message to a Milltown Police Department officer on Jan. 19 that stated: The address in the text was that of Crawford County Junior-Senior High School, and the local sheriff's department worked with the text message app company Pinger to determine the IP address the message was sent from, according to court documents. Investigators also obtained subscriber information on the IP address from Verizon Wireless, which they said led them to Fortner. Both Fortner and her husband "denied knowledge of any threats sent" to Milltown Police and told officers they had been the victims of identity theft and hacking. Court documents indicate the FBI became involved in the case, and performed a digital forensic examination of Fortner's phone on Jan. 30, and found searches on the phone for the following: Egyptian man names Ramesses II ramochafisa@yahoo.com Crawford county sheriffs department how do I contact wdrb news WAVE 3 new text number" Crawford county high school" On Fortner's laptop, FBI agents found searches for: is a bomb threat a federal crime" federal prisons near me federal prison food" On Feb. 21, the Corydon Democrat newspaper notified its local sheriff's department it had received an emailed bomb threat listing five targets, including an elementary school in Milltown, a movie theater in Corydon, Indiana, and a grocery store in Inglish, Indiana. The message included Arabic language in the body of the email that federal prosecutors said translated roughly to "good luck to you." An FBI agent said investigators tracked the IP address associated with the email's creation to Fortner's home. Law enforcement arrested her and charged her with intimidation and terroristic threatening. This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Former substitute teacher Mary Fortner pleads guilty in bomb threat case Fire & Ice NASA and SpaceX notched an important milestone for their upcoming crewed lunar mission: test-firing a SpaceX engine from a cold start in order to simulate conditions in the extremely ice-cold vacuum of space, according to a statement from the space agency. SpaceX released video footage of the test on X-formerly-Twitter, showing the cold engine start of its Raptor engine last month. While lying face down, the engine successfully blasted a controlled jet of fire. NASA is planning to use a lunar variant of SpaceX's Starship spacecraft for the agency's crewed Artemis missions to the lunar surface, slated for 2025. The lunar lander needs to operate from a cold start because NASA envisions that the spacecraft may have to sit in the frigid temperatures of outer space for a relatively long time compared to a mission orbiting the Earth, according to NASA. In 2o21, NASA awarded a $2.89 billion contract to SpaceX for its lunar lander. Last year, NASA awarded a contract option to SpaceX to further develop its Starship spacecraft. The test sets the stage for SpaceX's long-awaited, second orbital launch attempt. With a green light from the Federal Aviation Administration, the test flight could occur as soon as next month. To the Moon The SpaceX test is notable not only for passing a crucial technological checkbox and cementing further the alliance between the company and NASA it's also a reminder of the burgeoning space race among world powers. For example, last month, India landed its Vikram spacecraft on the lunar surface, near the south pole of the Moon. A few weeks ago, Japan sent into orbit a satellite and a robotic moon lander that will attempt to touch down on the surface after a long, meandering journey of several months. Earlier this year, China publicized its ambitious plans to land astronauts on the Moon by 2030, ratcheting up its rivalry with the US. But the race to the Moon and beyond is not without its perils. Case in point: Russia, which has been trying to follow up on the successes of the Soviet Union's space program, crash-landed during its recent attempt to explore the Moon's surface last month. Despite these risky gambles, establishing a presence on the Moon is not just for international bragging rights. It serves as a launching pad to Mars and beyond and could reward countries with an abundance of space-based resources as well. More on SpaceX: Spacexs Botched Starship Launch Left Wildlife Officials Stunned Spain's Agriculture Minister Luis Planas Puchades said on Sept. 18 that unilateral restrictions by EU countries on importing Ukrainian grain may be illegal, Reuters reported. However, the minister added that it "it was up to the European Commission to judge" whether any EU members have broken any laws. In May, the Commission imposed a ban on sales of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflower seed in five EU countries: Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, Romania, and Bulgaria. The nations requested the measure due to fears from local farmers that cheap Ukrainian imports would drive down agriculture prices. While the Commission decided not to extend the ban after Sept. 15, citing data indicating that Ukrainian imports would no longer negatively impact local markets, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary decided to continue to restrict imports of Ukrainian agricultural products. The ban does not apply to transiting the grain through the territories of the said countries, however. Although Bulgaria was not among the countries to prolong the ban, Sofia's decision against the extension revived fears among Bulgarian farmers. Local agricultural workers have blocked main roads across the country in a nationwide protest against Ukrainian imports. Like his Spanish counterpart, French Agriculture Minister Marc Fesneau criticized the decision by the three Central European countries: "For solidarity, there needs to be unity... We must keep hold of the two elements, otherwise, the European project is at risk. The single market is a fundamental element." Ukraine, one of the world's leading grain producers, is seeking alternative routes for its exports after Russia's unilateral withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative on July 17. One such alternative is the so-called Solidarity Lanes instituted by the EU in May 2022, facilitating the transit of Ukrainian produce via European countries. Some EU members like Romania, Poland, Croatia, or Bulgaria introduced or discussed measures to expand their transit capacity of Ukrainian grain. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. SENJ, Croatia, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Senj Wind Farm in Croatia, a project of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), has promoted local economic development and brought numerous job opportunities, Josip Tosic, manager of the local Toska Company, told Xinhua in an interview on Monday. More than 40 companies from across Croatia participated in the construction of the Senj Wind Farm. At one point, there were about 500 people on the site per day, and more than half of them were from Croatia, he said. "It certainly encourages the development of Croatian companies, because working on the country's largest wind farm is a great reference and a great experience for everyone," Tosic said, adding that China's Norinco International, the main contractor of the farm, has focused on the engagement of as many local companies as possible and "I think they did a great thing for the project but also for the local people." The wind farm, located on the Adriatic coast of western Croatia, was inaugurated in December 2021. It produces about 530 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of green electricity each year and reduces Croatia's carbon dioxide emissions by about 460,000 tonnes per year. The farm has been hailed as a flagship project of the BRI, which envisions trade and infrastructure networks connecting Asia with Europe and Africa along the ancient Silk Road routes. According to Tosic, whose consulting company is still working at the Senj Wind Farm, the project has brought a lot of benefits to the local people, including the annual fees paid to the local community and government, the engagement of local companies and the employment of local people. The farm also provides cheaper and stable energy supply for the locals, as the green electricity it produces each year is enough to satisfy the electricity demand of over 100,000 households in Croatia, Tosic noted. "The local population will have a stable and clean source of energy, as well as various financial benefits from the operation of the wind farm," he said. Tosic said he believed that the Chinese investments, such as the Senj Wind Farm, will greatly stimulate the growth of the economy in Croatia. "I believe that Croatia, as part of the European Union (EU), has proved to be an excellent partner for Chinese investors. So new Chinese investments in Croatia are welcome," he said. Tosic said he was impressed by the excellent cooperation between the Chinese and Croatian companies and people during the construction process and hailed the hard work of the Chinese team. "Regardless of the language and cultural differences, the personal relationships and cooperation between Chinese and Croatian workers are excellent," he said, adding that he had to commend Norinco International's management for their "exceptional" efforts and understanding of the requirements of the project. "Each country has its own specifics, but here the leading management and engineers of Norinco International have shown great knowledge, understanding and willingness to cooperate," he said. While Croatia has excellent potentials for the construction of wind and solar power plants, China has superb technology and big companies that can make such investments, Tosic noted, adding that Croatia represents a great opportunity for Chinese companies to enter the very demanding EU market. "Croatia can learn a lot from China in terms of the development and application of renewable energy technologies. In my opinion, the Senj Wind Farm is just the beginning of successful green cooperation between China and Croatia," he said. Growing up on the South Side of Chicago as the child of Mexican immigrants who primarily spoke Spanish, Dr. Daniel Meza was often asked to translate for his parents during medical appointments. Its a skill that I grew up with, having that technical language, Meza said. I just recall how stressful it was for my parents when they were in clinics, and as well as for myself, being a small child. Now a pulmonologist with Northwestern Medicine, Meza says his concerns about equity in health care lingered. Two months ago, Meza became a part of the Northwestern Medicine Canning Thoracic Institute Hispanic Program. Patients of the program receive lung and thoracic care, including surgery and preventive screenings, entirely in Spanish. Everyone at the CTI Hispanic Program, from front desk workers to operating room nurses, is fluent in Spanish. Patients can also access a dedicated Spanish-language phone line. Staff aim to improve health equity in Chicago by building trust with Hispanic patients and improving treatment outcomes in Hispanic communities, Meza said. Some 28.7% of Chicagoans, or about 750,000 people, identified as Hispanic as of the 2022 census. When I see patients come in with their children and they see I speak Spanish, theres kind of a relief on both sides, Meza said. The program launched two months ago. It is led by Dr. Diego Mauricio Avella Patino, a thoracic surgeon trained in Colombia, and by Meza, both native Spanish speakers. Avella performs surgeries related to esophageal disease, lung failure, various cancers, chest wall issues and breathing obstruction. Meza specializes in treating pulmonary problems such as asthma, respiratory failure and emphysema. Patients are often surrounded by medical staff in their most vulnerable moments, such as right before anesthesia. Those who can be treated in their primary language tend to forge better relationships with care providers and follow aftercare instructions better, Avella said. The need was overwhelming, said Avella, who worked at Northwestern Medicine for two years before the program launched. Patients may also feel more comfortable asking detailed questions with doctors who understand the cultural norms they experience daily, Avella said. Sometimes the barriers for the patients to be compliant with the recommendations are beyond the disease itself, they are social, Avella said. When you build that bridge with the patient, it can be extremely powerful. Avella said some of his patients have been treated suboptimally at other clinics in the past. He recently saw a lung cancer patient who suffered from extreme untreated nausea. Avella discovered that the patient had been diagnosed with diabetes, but rarely spoke of it. This patient was never going to get her diabetes appropriately controlled because she didnt have a doctor who was taking care of her, Avella said. The patient is now being treated by Northwestern Medicine endocrinologists. Patients in the CTI Hispanic Program are often referred to other Northwestern Medicine specialists, Avella said. Program staff work with these patients to schedule and prepare for future appointments in Spanish, Avella said. The clinic is also focused on preventive measures for respiratory issues. Proposing that patients quit smoking and get screened for lung cancer has been a priority for Meza. There are a lot of great medications out there that we know help increase the chances of a patient quitting, Meza said. And in any population we have, thats not something theyre aware exists. While smoking rates in Chicago are on the decline, Meza said, hes had to convince at least one ex-smoker to schedule a lung cancer screening. Catching lung cancer at an early stage improves patient outcomes significantly, Meza said. The program has seen higher rates of asthma and respiratory issues among patients living in the Pilsen and Little Village neighborhoods, Meza said. He attributes this to nearby factory smoke and other forms of air pollution within the last decade. Raising patient awareness of ongoing clinical trials is also a goal, Meza said. The American Medical Association reported in 2022 that Hispanic patients with limited English proficiency are highly underrepresented in clinical trials, particularly for vaccines and cancer treatment. In 2019, 18.5% of the United States adult population, but only 3% of cancer clinical trial participants, identified as Hispanic. Meza and Avella both said that while working with new patients, theyre conscious of the wide diversity among Hispanic Chicagoans. There are people from very different racial backgrounds, educational backgrounds, financial backgrounds and many different countries of origin, Avella said. What I can do right now is provide health care attention in Spanish and at least be a little more culturally aware of the differences among Hispanics. Support within Northwestern Medicine and among colleagues has made Chicago ideal for the program, Avella said. He hopes other cities with large Spanish-speaking populations will consider the clinic a model for similar programs. Meza also hopes to forge more connections with smaller health clinics in neighborhoods with high concentrations of primarily Spanish-speaking residents. Many Hispanic patients, particularly those of lower socioeconomic status, start their care journeys there, he said. As (the CTI Hispanic Program) grows, I do hope that we are kind of like a beacon in the city for pulmonary thoracic needs in the Hispanic community, Meza said. Chicago residents can schedule an appointment with the CTI Hispanic Program at 847-738-4863. The Albert Gallatin Area School District is one of multiple schools to have received a threatening email over the weekend. According to a letter sent by the districts superintendent, Christopher Pegg, multiple schools received threatening emails on Friday. Pegg said the emails said, I placed bombs in all your schools. The sender did not name a specific school or district. Pennsylvania State Police were called in to investigate these threats and have deemed the email as not credible. The Albert Gallatin Area School District was checked out of an abundance of caution. Pegg said the safety of students, faculty, staff and visitors is the districts top priority. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW TRENDING NOW: Mother of former NFL player Sergio Brown found dead in Chicago suburb Man dead after being hit by truck tractor at construction site in South Fayette Township Woman dead after crash in North Versailles VIDEO: Its been very successful Pittsburgh Police make South Side entertainment patrol permanent DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts State police continue to search for a man who escaped from WellSpan York Hospital earlier this year while he was under official detention, according to Pennsylvania Crime Stoppers. Ishan S. Phinn, 26, of the York area, faces numerous charges: aggravated assault, escape, resisting arrest, flight to avoid apprehension and possession of a small amount of marijuana, a news release states. State police were conducting an investigation on April 28 in the 200 block of Masonic Drive in Manchester Township when troopers saw Phinn, who had an arrest warrant in Gettysburg, a release states. Phinn resisted arrest when troopers tried to take him into custody. He ran off, but troopers caught him, the release states. State police allege he had a small amount of marijuana in his possession at the time. Escape from York Hospital State police took Phinn to York Hospital to be evaluated, and he was admitted, the release states. He was under official detention by a corrections officer with the York County Prison when he escaped two days later. Anyone with information on Phinn's location may call state police at (717) 428-1011 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-4PA-TIPS (8477). Tips also can be submitted online at www.crimewatchpa.com/crimestoppers. This article originally appeared on York Daily Record: Police seeking help to find suspect who escaped from York Hospital The federal government could shut down after September 30 if lawmakers don't agree on a solution. A shutdown would coincide with the first day federal student-loan payments are set to resume. A 2021 contingency plan for the Education Department said federal loan servicing could be disrupted. Student-loan borrowers are facing new bills in less than two weeks. They could also be facing a government shutdown. Lawmakers have just 13 days to reach a funding agreement before the government is set to run out of money on September 30. And at this point, things aren't looking too good a group of conservative lawmakers on Sunday proposed a short-term resolution that would fund the government through October 31, accompanied by provisions aimed at strengthening border security. Democrats have said they will not support that bill and even some House Republicans have expressed opposition to the resolution, meaning lawmakers have limited time to find an agreement that can win enough votes to pass. If not, Americans will face a government shutdown on October 1, which also happens to be the same day federal student-loan payments resume. Things are already complicated enough for the student-loan industry without a looming government shutdown. Due to the unprecedented volume of borrowers reentering repayment at once, student-loan servicers have been flooded with inquires and they have demonstrated they don't have sufficient resources to handle all borrowers who need help. One company's website and call center has shut down repeatedly due to technical errors, and some borrowers have told Insider they have spent hours on hold with their servicer to no avail. All that could be much worse if the Education Department shuts down at the same time payments are supposed to start up. After over three years on pause, federal borrowers will start footing an extra monthly bill as early as October 1. The Office of Management and Budget has contingency plans for every federal agency on how they structure their operations in the event of a shutdown. However, since this payment resumption is unprecedented, the Education Department does not yet have a contingency plan for managing Federal Student Aid's operations without funding in two weeks. The most recent contingency plan on the OMB's website for the Education Department is from 2021, meaning the department is currently reviewing what its new plan should be. At the beginning of the shutdown, federal employees across all agencies would be furloughed, including nearly all of Education's staff. According to the Education Department's 2021 plan, "the Department would phase in employees only as necessary to support and prevent significant damage to the underlying activity. At most, not more than 11 percent of the total staff would be called back to work during a longer interruption." When it comes to the federal student-loan program, the 2021 plan stated that basic operations including the disbursement of Pell Grants and federal student loans, along with the servicing of federal student loans, "could continue for a very limited time; these operations could also experience some level of disruption due to a lapse." So the longer the shutdown is, the more severe the impacts will be for student-loan borrowers who are attempting to seek federal aid or receive assistance from their loan servicer. Section 124 of the OMB's 2023 guidance for executing the federal budget outlines how every agency should prepare for a lapse in appropriations. All agencies should be prepared to initiate their shutdown plans within one-half day, and they should have plans for a shutdown that extends for a prolonged period of time. Agencies also have to plan how they will resume operations once funding is restored. The Education Department has said it remains in frequent contact with servicers to ensure a smooth transition back into repayment. Regardless, borrowers are still on the hook for their student-loan bills next month, and it remains to be seen how a government shutdown will impact the student-loan industry as it turns back on once again. Read the original article on Business Insider Rishi Sunak is reportedly conducting an audit of net zero policies, with the apparent aim of reducing the burden on families ahead of next years election. This is welcome news, but if it is to work Mr Sunak will need to loosen his self-imposed restraints. The Government has already indicated that the 2030 ban on petrol and diesel cars is here to stay, alongside shorter term targets for electric cars. However, there is surely room to scrap the imposition of heat pumps on Britains households, or anti-car Low Traffic Neighbourhoods. Relatedly, it is difficult to believe that there is no way to ease the burden on taxpayers. The current administration is unlikely to welcome Liz Trusss latest criticism, or to appreciate her argument that her plans to hold public spending down would have saved almost 36 billion. But as much as it might pain Downing Street, her emphasis on economic growth has been vindicated. Mr Sunak should reflect on the fact that his current plans are set to take the tax bill to its highest level since the war, driven in part by the demands of net zero policy. A 500 million subsidy for green steel here, a 65 billion decommissioning bill for gas there, and the outgoings soon add up with little headroom for tax cuts. That money, after all, could be put to good use. After promising noises on cutting inheritance tax, it is now being reported that Downing Street is backing away from the idea out of concern that it would play badly in the Red Wall. A pattern has developed of the Government coming up with good, vote-winning ideas, only to get cold feet. Mr Sunak should be bold. The electorate will surely reward him for it. 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. SAN DIEGO San Diego city officials are joining a federal court case out of Oregon that is looking to get the U.S. Supreme Court to weigh in on rules that have barred cities from clearing homeless encampments without available shelter beds. During the regularly-held closed door session on Monday, the City Council voted 6-2 to participate in the case, City of Grants Pass, Oregon v. Gloria Johnson, et al. The lawsuit, which was brought by three homeless residents in the City of Grants Pass, sought to overturn city ordinances that restricted camping and sleeping in public through fines and other regulations. San Diego hosts first-ever immigrant and refugee career fair In 2020, a court sided with the unhoused plaintiffs, saying in its decision that it was a violation of the Eighth Amendment to punish people for sleeping in public when there is no where else for them to go. That decision built on the precedent set by the Ninth Circuit in the 2018 case Martin v. City of Boise, which held that the cruel and unusual punishment clause of the Eight Amendment narrowly prevents governments from imposing criminal penalties on homeless individuals for sitting, sleeping, or lying outside on public property if there is no accessible alternative. The defendants in the Grants Pass case, however, attempted to appeal the lower court decision. Last year, a three-judge panel from the Ninth Circuit upheld the lower courts ruling, prompting the city to request all judges on the federal court to hear the case. In July, the Ninth Circuit courts majority voted not to reconsider. Now, Grants Pass is again attempting to get another opinion, filing a petition to get the U.S. Supreme Court to review the case. In the citys petition, they posed the question: Does the enforcement of generally applicable laws regulating camping on public property constitute cruel and unusual punishment prohibited by the Eighth Amendment? Its worth noting that the City of Boise also attempted to appeal to the highest court in the land, but the justices at the time declined to take it up. San Diego, which recently implemented similar camping ordinances, will now be joining the case as as an amicus curiae, or a friend of the court. These are generally people or groups who are not party to a case, but they can get permission to submit briefs intending to influence the courts decision. The city will be joining Seattle and other metro areas within the Ninth Circuit court jurisdiction in a petition to get the court to hear the case. Cities must be able to address the significant public health and safety dangers posed by the unsafe and unsanitary encampments that have become a serious issue across the United States, Mayor Todd Gloria said in a statement. The City of Grants Pass, Oregon, has petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to untie the hands of cities attempting to respond to this public-health problem, and I thank the San Diego City Council for agreeing to my request to have our city join Grants Pass in this fight. Dozens of local students rally for global climate action ahead of UN Summit Earlier this week, California Gov. Gavin Newsom similarly announced his intention to intervene in a different ongoing federal case out of San Francisco relating to the cleaning up of homeless encampments. Ive had it, he said during an interview with Politico in Sacramento. Were going to intervene, and I hope this goes to the Supreme Court, and thats a hell of a statement for a progressive democrat to say. He added that federal judges have gone too far in interpreting the Martin v. Boise and earlier Grants Pass rulings. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. A suspect has been identified, just a day after being involved in a shootout with Georgia officers. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The Cartersville Police Department told Channel 2s Larry Spruill that around 3 p.m. Sunday, officers were called to a crash on Highway 41 when they saw a man walking in the road with a gun. When officers arrived, the man, identified as Shane Jacquez Barfield, 37, reportedly opened fire on the officers, and authorities shot back. TRENDING STORIES: A witness told Channel 2 Action News that this was the moment they started recording with their cell phone. I thought it was a normal high-speed chase. I heard them screaming, Get on the ground. Get on the ground. Put your hands on the ground, they told Spruill. In the video, rapid gunshots can be heard followed by a plume of white smoke that could be seen coming from a white car. Channel 2 Action News cameras saw several bullet holes in the front window shield of the car. The initial shot was just one and then when I saw the police shooting, it could be like 15-20 I heard, the witness explained. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] No injuries were reported. Barfield was arrested and charged with three counts of aggravated assault against a Peace Officer, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, theft by receiving stolen property and possession of methamphetamine. IN OTHER NEWS: Before he was arrested in the slaying of a Los Angeles County sheriffs deputy, a 29-year-old Palmdale man suspected in the killing was diagnosed with schizophrenia, heard voices and twice tried suicide, his mother said Monday. Kevin Cataneo Salazar of East Palmdale was arrested Monday morning at the family home, according to vehicle records and neighbors who witnessed the arrest. Cataneo Salazars mother, Marle Salazar, said she and her family were caught off guard when law enforcement raided their home. Cataneo Salazar had been home after the shooting, and despite the news of the deadly attack and the manhunt underway, he didnt seem upset or nervous, or give any indication of what might have happened, his mother said. My son is mentally ill, and if he did something, he wasnt in his full mental capacity, she said in an interview with The Times in Spanish. Theyre only saying that he was the one that shot the deputy, but nobody is saying he has a record for needing mental help, she said. Read more: Suspect arrested in killing of L.A. County sheriff's deputy in Palmdale Salazar said her son was diagnosed as paranoid schizophrenic about five years ago. Hed say he was hearing voices in his head, she said, and sometimes came home telling his parents or siblings that cars or people were following him in the streets. At times, she said, hed grow so upset that he would cover his ears with his hands, yell or stick his head in a trash can to try to drown out the voices. Wed ask what he would hear, and he would just get hysterical, she said. Hed grow upset, she said, and shed try to calm him down. Often after such episodes, Salazar said her son would start to act like a child of about 5 years old and ask to be hugged. She said shes called deputies at least twice to the Palmdale home in the past asking for help, when her son refused to take his medication and began to grow aggressive toward himself. But she said Cataneo Salazar had never hurt anyone before, and his aggression was always self-directed. I have called the police several times, she said. In the end, they would say, Hes an adult, so if he doesnt want to take [his medication], we cant do anything.' Twice since his diagnosis, she said, hes attempted suicide. Its not my son that did it, its the disease that did it, she said. They are putting all this out there that my son killed someone, but nobody is saying that my son is sick. Hes sick, and so many people talk about schizophrenia, but then nothing happens. She said her son had been hospitalized in Sylmar in the past year and seemed to be doing better. He stopped taking his medication about 10 months ago, but she said he appeared to be calm, so she and his family didnt press it. Read more: Ambushed L.A. deputy was newly engaged, looking forward to big things. 'No words' When police arrived, she and her family were confused, she said. After the shooting, she said, Cataneo Salazar was acting normal, and there was no indication that a shooting had happened. I didnt know when it happened, I just saw him normal, she said. We were here, working, cleaning chairs and tables and he was OK. None of us knew anything. She said she was also unaware that Cataneo Salazar owned a gun, but was told by detectives that he had legally purchased a weapon that was used in the attack. Her son's Facebook and Instagram bios both read: "Dead in a couple days weeks or years" He followed "League of Legends," a popular video game, writing a rave review online of the multiplayer online battle arena in which he said it deserved a rating of "100/10." In a photo posted in September, he posed at the Grove with Charli and Dixie D'Amelio at an event for the influencers' footwear brand. Julio Cruz, a neighbor of the suspect's family, said he "heard police talking over the bullhorn" early Monday morning, "and they were saying, 'Kevin, come out. Surrender.'" Few details have been released, but law enforcement sources told The Times authorities launched a massive manhunt after the killing, leading to an East Palmdale neighborhood. Heavily armed deputies in tactical gear took a man into custody during the overnight operation, according to the sources, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief the media. According to surveillance video of the shooting that was shared with The Times, Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer was shot Saturday as he steered his patrol cruiser onto Sierra Highway and stopped at a red light outside the Palmdale sheriffs station. Seconds later, a dark gray Toyota Corolla can be seen pulling up behind the marked black-and-white cruiser and pausing before speeding off. In those seconds, authorities said, the 30-year-old deputy was shot in the head. He died from his injuries hours later. Monday afternoon, relatives at the suspect's home swept broken glass from a walkway as media approached. Multiple news cameras were setup on the sidewalk outside the home. A strong irritant smell wafted from the front door, likely the remnants of the chemicals used to force out the suspect. 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. An unidentified drone with a suspected payload of explosives was found on the Black Sea coast in Bulgaria in the village of Tyulenovo during the night of Sept. 17-18, local outlet Novinite.com reported with reference to Bulgarias Defense Ministry. It is not yet known how the UAV ended up on the Bulgarian coast. There is also no information about who the drone might belong to. "Last night around 9.30 p.m. we received a call saying that the waves had washed up an object that looked like a drone," said Marian Zhechev, mayor of the Shabla community, to which Tyulenovo belongs. As of 10.10 p.m. last night, the area was cordoned off. The current actions are to isolate the area to protect the lives and health of people living in the area until the arrival of the Ministry of Defense. When asked if the origin of the drone was known, he said that "from what we can see from afar, it is one of those used in the war in Ukraine." At the same time, the Bulgarian Ministry of Defense noted that five soldiers from a specialized group had arrived at the site in the morning. They will reconnoiter the site and then decide where to dispose of the object. Tyulenovo 70 kilometers from Bulgarias border with Romania, where the wreckage of Russian UAVs has already fallen during attacks on Ukraine. Shahed drones in Romania What is known Russia carried out a massive air attack on southern Ukraine using Iranian-made Shahed drones on the night of Sept. 4. Read also: Romania summons Russian envoy over drone debris Some of these drones fell and detonated on the territory of Romania, a NATO member state, according to Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oleg Nikolenko and the State Border Guard Service. Romanian Defense Minister Angel Tilvar on Sept. 6 acknowledged for the first time that parts of a Russian drone used to attack Ukraine had indeed fallen on his countrys territory. On the same day, Bucharest launched an investigation and reported the incident to its NATO allies. Romanian President Klaus Iohannis called the falling debris a "serious violation of sovereignty." Read also: More drone debris found in Romania after Russia attacks Ukraine on Sep. 13 NATO member countries expressed strong solidarity with Romania in a statement published by Romanias ambassador to the alliance, Dan Neculescu. However, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg stated on Sept. 7 that the alliance did not see any indication that there had been a deliberate Russian attack on Romania. Fragments of another drone similar to those used by the Russian army were also found in Romania on Sept. 9. After that, NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoana said that the alliance does not believe that Russia deliberately planned to attack the territory of Romania. The wreckage of a UAV was again found in Romania near the villages of Nufaru and Victoria on Sept. 13, after a Russian drone attack on Odesa Oblast. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Children pose for photos with panda-shaped toys while visiting the Kuwait Chinese Cultural Center in Hawalli Governorate, Kuwait, Sept. 17, 2023. The first Chinese Cultural Center in the Gulf region launched its trial operation on Sunday in Kuwait's Hawalli Governorate. (Photo by Asad/Xinhua) KUWAIT CITY, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The first Chinese Cultural Center in the Gulf region launched its trial operation on Sunday in Kuwait's Hawali governorate. "I hope this is not only a cultural center of China, but also a cultural center of Kuwait," said Moussaid Zamir, the Assistant Secretary General of the Kuwait National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, at the launch ceremony, adding Kuwait has always attached great importance to cultural development. The trial operation of the first Chinese Cultural Center in the Gulf region highlighted the special friendly relationship between China and Kuwait, said Chinese Ambassador to Kuwait Zhang Jianwei at the ceremony. It will lead the development of cultural exchanges between China and the Gulf in the new era and further consolidate the cultural foundation of the China-Arab community with a shared future, Zhang added. More than 100 people attended the ceremony, including Director of the Kuwait Chinese Cultural Center Xia Jianfeng, Kuwaiti officials, members of Kuwait's royal family, and representatives of Chinese enterprises in Kuwait. The guests visited the cultural center's reading room, culinary training room, music and dance classroom, Chinese language teaching room, and enjoyed Chinese traditional music and dance performances. Chinese oil company Sinopec held a book donation event during the ceremony. "I love Chinese culture, Chinese literature, history, and calligraphy," Kuwaiti royal family member Sheikha Anoud told Xinhua. "I have studied the Chinese language for over two years and read many Chinese poems. The works of poets such as Li Bai are very beautiful. Reading books not only helps young people increase their knowledge, but also brings a lot of fun," said Anoud. By conducting various activities such as Chinese language training, information services, image exhibitions as well as film and television shows, the cultural center will comprehensively introduce excellent traditional Chinese culture and tell the story of China's development. Children try to learn Chinese at the Kuwait Chinese Cultural Center in Hawalli Governorate, Kuwait, Sept. 17, 2023. The first Chinese Cultural Center in the Gulf region launched its trial operation on Sunday in Kuwait's Hawalli Governorate. (Photo by Asad/Xinhua) Guests and children pose for a group photo during the launch ceremony for trial operation of the Kuwait Chinese Cultural Center in Hawalli Governorate, Kuwait, Sept. 17, 2023. The first Chinese Cultural Center in the Gulf region launched its trial operation on Sunday in Kuwait's Hawalli Governorate. (Photo by Asad/Xinhua) FILE - Soldiers pose for group photos with a Taiwan flag after a preparedness enhancement drill simulating the defense against Beijing's military intrusions, ahead of the Lunar New Year in Kaohsiung City, Taiwan on Jan. 11, 2023. Taiwan says 103 Chinese warplanes flew toward the island in new daily high in recent times. Taiwan's Defense Ministry said that it detected the planes in the 24 hours ending at 6 a.m. Monday, Sept. 18, 2023. (AP Photo/Daniel Ceng, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) Chinas military sent 103 warplanes toward Taiwan in a 24-hour period in what the islands defense ministry called a recent new high. The planes were detected between 6 a.m. on Sunday and 6 a.m. on Monday, the ministry said. As is customary, they turned back before reaching Taiwan. Chinese warplanes fly toward the self-governing island on a near-daily basis but typically in smaller numbers. The Taiwan ministry didn't explain what time period it meant by a recent high. China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, has conducted increasingly large military drills in the air and waters around Taiwan as tensions have grown between the two and with the United States. The U.S. is Taiwans main supplier of arms and opposes any attempt to change Taiwans status by force. The Chinese government would prefer that Taiwan come under its control voluntarily and last week unveiled a plan for an integrated development demonstration zone in Fujian province, trying to entice Taiwanese even as it threatens the island militarily in what experts say is Chinas long-running carrot and stick approach. The recent actions may be an attempt to sway Taiwans presidential election in January. The governing Democratic Progressive Party, which leans toward formal independence for the island, is anathema to the Chinese leadership. China favors opposition candidates who advocate working with the mainland. The presidential candidates had no immediate comment Monday on the latest Chinese military activity. Taiwans Defense Ministry said 40 of the planes crossed the symbolic median line between mainland China and the island. They included more than 30 fighter jets as well as midair refueling tanker planes. Taiwan also reported nine Chinese naval vessels in area waters in the previous 24 hours. The ministry called the Chinese military action harassment that it warned could escalate in the current tense atmosphere. We urge the Beijing authorities to bear responsibility and immediately stop such kind of destructive military activities, it said in a statement.' Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, asked about the reported military activity, said there is no such thing as a median line because Taiwan is part of Chinese territory. China last week sent a flotilla of ships including the aircraft carrier Shandong into waters near Taiwan. The drills came shortly after the U.S. and Canada sailed warships through the Taiwan Strait, the waters that separate the island from the mainland. Taiwan and China split in 1949 when the Communists took control of China during a civil war. The losing Nationalists fled to Taiwan and set up their own government on the island. Only a few foreign nations give the island official diplomatic recognition. The U.S. among others has formal ties with China while maintaining a representative office in Taiwan. ___ Find more of AP's Asia-Pacific coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/asia-pacific Local officials have secured money to help remedy Tampas shrinking tree canopy. U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor , D-Tampa, announced Thursday the city had been awarded a $1 million federal grant through the U.S. Department of Agricultures Urban and Community Forestry initiative. Weve seen a lot of beautiful live oaks and large trees come down, Castor said in an interview with the Times. So thats why the timing of this grant is so important. A 2021 study found Tampas tree canopy coverage to be at its lowest in 26 years. The citys average annual temperature has increased by 2.5 degrees since 1891, when record-keeping began, according to the citys Climate Action and Equity Plan. Tampas trees remove 1,000 tons of air pollutants every year, according to the city report. Castor said the federal grant is focused on reducing toxic air and carbon pollution across the country. The federal funds will help move forward Tampa Mayor Jane Castor s goal to plant 30,000 trees citywide by 2030. The two Castors are not related. This is a huge win for Tampa residents and our cherished tree canopy, Jane Castor wrote in a news release. Great cities have great tree canopies. Kathy Castor cited a 2019 Florida law that limits local governments power to set rules about tree removals as a major factor in waning canopies across the state. Though the law was tweaked last year, Kathy Castor said the city still is working to bolster Tampas canopy with one hand tied behind their back. The federal grant requires that trees be planted in low-income areas where there are already sparse canopies, Kathy Castor said. Tampas canopy report found that lower-income and Hispanic neighborhoods have less shade, making them among the areas most affected by heat. Whit Remer, Tampas sustainability and resilience officer, said the city will direct these new funds toward underserved communities, including East Tampa and some West Tampa neighborhoods such as Drew Park and Ybor City. Finding space for new trees in densely populated Tampa is one of the biggest difficulties the city faces, Remer said. Infrastructure, utilities and sidewalks limit the right-of-way space available for new trees. Planting in the public realm outside of parks can be challenging, he said. So thats why were trying to get creative. That means planting trees in stormwater ponds, where they can help reduce runoff. But adding shady trees in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic is still a priority, Remer said. Each tree planted through the citys Tree-mendous Tampa program costs the city $600 because the trees are planted on private property and the owner is responsible for maintaining them, Remer said. He said he expects efforts funded by the federal grant money could run up to $1,000 per tree for those planted in public places because the city would be tasked with maintaining them. There is no estimate of how many trees would be planted on public versus private property yet, Remer said, so the funds could finance the planting of between 1,000 and 1,600 trees. The money goes quick, he said. Remer said the city plants 15-gallon saplings, and he explained the added expenses to the city for trees put in public spaces are due to the cost of nurturing them in the first year of planting. He said trees this size fall into the citys sweet spot. Those are big enough that we think that they will have a high success rate, and theyre small enough that we can plant those at scale, Remer said. Remer said he doesnt know when the grant money will be at the citys disposal, but he expects tree plantings to start within three to six months after those funds are available. Hunter Biden sued the Internal Revenue Service on Monday, alleging that two investigators at the agency had illegally released his tax information, thereby violating his privacy rights amid mounting public scrutiny. The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Washington, D.C., alleges that agents "targeted and sought to embarrass Mr. Biden," and that the IRS wrongly disclosed his tax return, neglecting to ensure his personal information remained confidential. CNN reported that while the suit does not name the two agents, Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler, as defendants, it does focus on disclosures made by them and their attorneys in public statements, interviews, and congressional testimony. By disclosing Biden's tax information in more than 20 nationally televised interviews and multiple public statements, the suit says, the agents were "engaging in a campaign to publicly smear Mr. Biden." President Joe Biden's son's suit comes mere days after he was indicted by a federal jury in Delaware on three gun-related charges, including two counts related to illegally owning a firearm as a drug user and one count for lying on a form when he allegedly bought the gun. If convicted, Biden could face up to 25 years in prison and hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines. Hunter Biden, the suit claims, "has all the same responsibilities as any other American citizen, and the I.R.S. can and should make certain that he abides by those responsibilities." "Similarly, Mr. Biden has no fewer or lesser rights than any other American citizen, and no government agency or government agent has free reign to violate his rights simply because of who he is," it continues. "Yet the I.R.S. and its agents have conducted themselves under a presumption that the rights that apply to every other American citizen do not apply to Mr. Biden." "Despite clear warnings from Congress that they were prohibited from disclosing the contents of their testimony to the public in another forum, Mr. Shapley and Mr. Ziegler's testimony only emboldened their media campaign against Mr. Biden. And finally, since their public testimony before the House of Representatives on July 19, 2023, the agents have become regular guests on national media outlets and have made new allegations and public statements regarding Mr. Biden's confidential tax return information that were not previously included in their transcripts before the Committee on Ways and Means." CNN also noted that Biden's lawyers in the suit underscored information Shapely shared during a CBS interview that aired in June, in which he claimed that Biden "took certain personal expenses as business expenses, including 'prostitutes, sex club memberships, hotel rooms for purported drug dealers,' and that Biden owed $2.2 million in unpaid taxes." "The lawsuit is about the decision by IRS employees, their representatives, and others to disregard their obligations and repeatedly and intentionally publicly disclose and disseminate Mr. Biden's protected tax return information outside the exceptions for making disclosures in the law," the suit adds. Shapley's lawyers on Friday released a statement saying Biden's attorneys have attempted to get the Justice Department to turn against their clients for sharing information protected under whistleblower rules. "Taxpayer privacy laws are written by Congress, and it gave itself authority in those laws to hear disclosures about taxpayer information," the statement said. "These agents' putative 'whistle-blower' status cannot and does not shield them from their wrongful conduct in making unauthorized public disclosures that are not permitted by the whistle-blower process," the suit says. In June, the Justice Department signaled that it had reached a plea deal with Biden, in which he would plead guilty to two tax misdemeanors for failing to pay his taxes on time in 2017 and 2018. Biden also reached a separate deal to avoid prosecution on a gun possession charge; however, the agreement fell apart at the eleventh hour during a court hearing in July. The New York Times noted that Biden's "decision to go ahead with the suit shows that he and his legal team are continuing to take an aggressive stance in fending off inquiries from congressional Republicans even as he faces the possibility of further prosecution on tax charges by the Justice Department amid his father's re-election campaign." Being afraid to feature the work of queer artists. Seeing a Mothers Day reading canceled because of a book featuring two moms. Removing Safe Space stickers. Getting fired because of one parents complaint. These are among the consequences of educational intimidation laws, being passed under the guise of parents rights, to teachers around the nation, says a recent report from PEN America. The report, Educational Intimidation: How Parental Rights Legislation Undermines the Freedom to Learn, looks at legislation that has the effect of prompting self-censorship in schools through indirect mechanisms, rather than direct edicts, according to a press release from the group, which promotes freedom of expression in the U.S. and worldwide. This type of legislation is distinct from educational gag orders, a class of bills previously documented by PEN America that directly ban what can be taught in classrooms, targeting discussions of race, racism, gender, aspects of American history and other prohibited or divisive concepts, the release says. PEN America has previously documented the introduction and spread of educational gag orders, explicit prohibitions on materials and content that can be taught in classrooms, the reports introduction reads. But in 2023, it has become clear that the range of state-level bills that can have censorious implications for schools, colleges, and libraries is expanding rapidly. Increasingly, bills that exert direct censorship on public educational institutions by prohibiting specific topics or content are being complemented by a different kind of bill one whose provisions do not censor schools directly but rather cast a chilling effect that creates the conditions for censorship indirectly, threatening the freedoms to teach and learn with death by a thousand cuts. The provisions of this second category of bills pressure educators to be more timid in the content they teach, pressure librarians to be more restrictive in the books they make available to students, and pressure students to limit their self-expression, without imposing direct prohibitions, the introduction continues. Put simply, these educational intimidation provisions, as we dub them, empower the use of intimidation tactics to cast a broad chilling effect over K- 12 classrooms by mandating new and intrusive forms of inspection or monitoring of schools, as well as new ways for members of the public including, in some cases, citizens with no direct connection to the schools to object to whatever they see that they do not like. Around 400 of these bills have been introduced in state legislatures between January 2021 and June 2023, and 38 of them have passed into law in 19 states, according to the report. The organization catalogs 12 types of educational intimidation provisions. These include provisions that would require teachers to post all instructional or professional development materials on public websites, making it easy for any citizen to object; would restrict students library access or make it easier for individual parents to get books banned for all students; invite parents to opt students into or out of certain content, creating unwieldy a la carte curricula that risk defeating the unifying purpose of public schools; expand the concept of obscenity beyond its well-established legal definition, opening educators and librarians up to criminal penalties; and require teachers to police students gender expression. Laws in Florida, Indiana, and at least seven other states require that parents be notified of any significant changes to their childs gender expression or sexual orientation. Among examples of the laws impact: An art teacher in Tennessee no longer teaches about Mexican artist Frida Kahlo or artist and AIDS activist Keith Haring because of a state law that requires teachers to alert parents to any LGBTQ+ content so they can withdraw their children from the lesson. Also in Tennessee, a Mothers Day reading for students in kindergarten and first and second grades was canceled because local members of Moms for Liberty objected to the books that were chosen one about a girl who doesnt know how to approach Mothers Day as a child with two dads, and another about a bear who is seen as a mother figure by goslings, the report says. In Kalispell, Mont., because of a state law requiring two weeks notice to parents about lessons that may involve human sexuality, teachers had to let parents know when genetics and even nonhuman reproduction were to be discussed in science classes. It feels like an unnecessary layer of bureaucracy and overreach by the state to insert itself into locally controlled and elected school boards, Kalispell Superintendent Micah Hill told local media. One school district in Florida even banned Safe Space stickers, which designate spaces friendly to LGBTQ+ students, because of a provision in the states parents rights law, but not the provision that got it dubbed the dont say gay law. Pasco County Superintendent Kurt Browning said that a students presence in a designated safe space could trigger a duty for Pasco County Schools staff to notify a parent of a potential change in their childs well-being, the Tampa Bay Times reported. And in Cobb County, Ga., a teacher was fired for reading a book about gender stereotypes called My Shadow Is Purple by Scott Stuart to fifth-graders, based on a complaint by a sole parent who considered anything touching on LGBTQ+ issues to be divisive. This rising tide of educational intimidation exposes the movement that cloaks itself in the language of parental rights for what it really is: a smoke screen for efforts to suppress teaching and learning and hijack public education in America, Jonathan Friedman, director of free expression and education programs at PEN America, said in the press release. The opportunity for parents to inspect and object to school curricula is already commonly granted in public school systems, as it should be. But this spate of provisions dramatically expands these powers in ways that are designed to spur schools and educators to self-censor. These bills risk turning every classroom into an ideological battleground, forcing teachers out of the profession, and jeopardizing the future of millions of students. These bills are not what they seem, Friedman continued. They are the next phase in a years-long campaign to incite panic and impose ideological strictures on schools. Education in a democracy must be characterized by openness and curiosity, by the freedom to read, learn, and think. These bills strike at that foundation, in novel, sometimes subtle, yet potentially irrevocable ways. Their spread should not be taken lightly. A 17-year-old with dreams of being a firefighter suffered severe burns in a dune buggy accident in Nevada, California officials said. But the determined teen says she wont let the accident keep her from pursuing her goals. America Salmeron, a recent graduate from Pasadena High School with plans to attend Pasadena City College to study fire science, was riding dune buggies outside Las Vegas on Sept. 9 with friends when her buggy flipped and caught on fire, Pasadena Fire Department Deputy Fire Chief Tim Sell told McClatchy News. Salmeron, part of Pasadena Fire Department Explorer Post, a program for teens interested in becoming firefighters, freed herself from the fiery dune buggy but suffered second- and third-degree burns to 51% of her body, Sell said. The driver of the dune buggy was able to escape the wreckage without any injuries. America embodies everything that the Pasadena Firefighter Explorer Program is, Pasadena Fire Department Capt. Arno Avakian told KTLA. Shes a hard worker, shes driven, positive attitude, always willing to help others. Salmeron was sent to a trauma center in Las Vegas, where she remains as of Sept. 18, Sell said. Salmeron, described as kind, caring and empathetic in a GoFundMe page, faces multiple surgeries, Sell said. She may not be one of our employees but shes part of our family, Sell said. Shes one special woman. Salmeron, an Explorer with the program for 18 months, had completed her first ride along a week before the incident, Sell said. Salmeron had been interviewing to become a sponsored cadet for the Verdugo Fire Academy in Glendale while she also attended college, according to her GoFundMe page. That determination and desire to push boundaries wont stop any time soon, she said. When do you hear a female say, Oh, I want to become a firefighter? Its rare, right, because its a mansjob, and at least in my hometown, I dont see a lot of firefighters that are women. I wanted to become one of the very few and thats exactly what Im going to do, Salmeron told KTLA. I see this situation as a test, a test that God put me through, saying, You want to join the fire service? Well, let me put you through fire. Let me see if you still want to do it. Look, I managed to escape and Im still wanting to become a firefighter. Pasadena is about 11 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles. SUV tears in half in fiery crash with 19-year-old driving 100 mph, Michigan cops say 3 NC family members die in fiery crash after getting trapped in van, Indiana cops say Pilot killed when plane crashes into home, NC officials say. Three escape fiery scene From the start, Tesla has eschewed traditional manufacturing, design, and sales models, and the companys latest move could involve revolutionizing the production of its snub-nosed EVs, as a recent Reuters story reports. Previously, the EV giant proved it could reduce costs and parts by casting the front end and back end of its Model Y as whole sections instead of assembled parts, which Tesla calls gigacasting, on brand with its 10-million-square-foot Gigafactory in Austin, Texas. Teslas next step could be die-casting nearly the entire underbody as a singular piece versus the 400 parts it generally takes to assemble the same section of a conventional car, according to Reuters. As that news organization puts it, if Tesla manages to die cast the whole piece successfully, it would further disrupt the way cars are designed and manufactured. How does a house-sized die-casting machine work, and can it make that much difference in the industry? Read on to learn more. How the casting process works Tesla already uses what it calls a gigapress , an aluminum die-casting machine at its factories in the US, Germany, and China. In very basic terms, molten metal is injected into a mold (the die), then cooled, ejected, and trimmed. The die-casting process was originally conceived in the mid-1800s, and automotive companies have used this manufacturing method for decades. In June, Reuters stated that Tesla also developed an aluminum alloy that allows it to skip the heat treating traditionally used to increase the strength of the cast part. That detail might trigger alarm bells, considering the tendency for Tesla vehicles to show signs of lackluster quality control when it comes to fit and finish. However, Ed Kim, president and chief analyst for research firm AutoPacific, believes Tesla approaches its body assembly differently. The areas where Tesla has had issues in terms of quality are typically related to squeaks and rattles and panel fit, Kim says. But it has done a great job on innovative manufacturing techniques. The entire industry has taken notice, with Toyota , Hyundai , Volvo , and others pledging to explore a similar manufacturing avenue (and calling it hypercasting and megacasting instead). Large-scale die casting is a tricky process, and some critics point to the fact that a single flaw can compromise the whole piece. On the other hand, using a gigapress (or megapress as other automakers may call it) can help preserve profit margins by streamlining the process. The cost conundrum Price is certainly a large factor, and Tesla says it cut related costs by 40 percent, according to Reuters , by using a gigapress on its most popular vehicle, the Model Y. That appeals to other automakers, like Toyota. It doesnt surprise me that Toyota has taken an interest in [gigacasting], because Ive always thought of Toyota as a manufacturing company above all else, Kim says. Historically, Toyota really set the bar on smart, efficient manufacturing and figuring out ways to take cost out of the process without sacrificing quality. Toyota executives may be kicking themselves for not adopting more large-scale die-casting first, he continues. The process is still very new, however, with much to prove, although automakers will certainly be watching. American companies are especially vulnerable to cost and revenue challenges, and the United Auto Workers current strike is creating a new flux in future plans; they may look at what Teslas doing and decide to go that route, but the relationship with the factories and those who work there adds a layer of complexity. Tesla has promised that a new $25,000 entry-level model is on the horizon, and that will require creative cost-cutting measures across the board, including perhaps the gigapress. Its so different from the assembly line model, Kim says. Given the rumored failures on the Cybertruck, the brand is particularly sensitive to manufacturing costs for its upcoming entry-level car and it needs to keep costs down. The EV companys ability to pull off using the gigapress on its Model Y contributed to its ability to slash prices, putting the competition on the defensive. Die-casting in this manner is technically difficult to execute and changes are very costly, which is why not everyone is jumping in right away, Kim says. Reducing manufacturing costs in a repeatable manner is the holy grail, he says, and automakers are all keeping an eye on this development. Based on the success of the Model Y, Tesla can potentially pull it off, he admitted. As the Journal-World reported, Detective Kimberlee Nicholson has testified about Snapchat messages that Reed allegedly sent the morning of the shooting. The messages were exchanged with a witness who, according to prosecutors, has refused to appear in court to testify. The court has issued a material witness warrant for that person to appear In those messages, Reed, whose handle includes the word whiteboy, repeatedly uses the N-word and says that he is saving to buy a gun, and in a later message he says he is tired of fighting with Shaw and his friends and is ready to start shooting. Im gonna let them try some funny (expletive) Them (N-word) are dead fr(for real) and I see a whole lotta dead (N-word), the Snapchat messages read by Nicholson from a projection screen said. AUSTIN (KXAN) From the classroom to the workplace, artificial Intelligence has made its way into several parts of our lives. But now, its in the church as well. The Violet Crown City Church in north Austin, Texas, hosted a Sunday service entirely created by AI. Pastor Jay Cooper said he used ChatGPT, whose technology can respond to questions and create a variety of content, such as articles, essays and emails. ChatGPT kicked out about a 15-minute service, like a shotgun sermon, an outline, Cooper said. Its very clear that a human element is still needed. I had to fill out the service with additional prompts and add a couple prompts to the sermon to kind of beef it up. ChatGPT: School districts discuss policies addressing Artificial Intelligence in the classroom Cooper said he got the idea after reading more about AI and speaking with members of the congregation who are software developers. Theres so many different applications for AI, he said. I just had the idea, What would it look like to incorporate this into a worship service?' Church attendee Ernest Chambers said he was able to worship during the service, but ultimately, it was still missing a key ingredient for him: feelings. Im not sure that AI can actually express the emotions of love and kindness and empathy, Chambers said. I think that we must practice love and express that. Not only feel it, but we must express it. What is sacred? Cooper said the purpose of this was to wrestle with the question What is sacred? A big question that comes up to me as we let AI lead worship is can a prayer written by artificial intelligence in some way communicate truth? Can you experience God through that? he asked. Cooper said if people can see something sacred in the AI sermon, perhaps they could find something sacred in other things as well. Perhaps something resonates with them and then it opens their mind to, maybe Im not looking for the sacred enough in the rest of the world, Cooper said. He said while the AI-generated sermon was relevant, it lacked a key component: emotion. I think the human touch is critical in life and in ministry, Cooper said. I think the messiness of humanity should be present in worship. Cooper said the AI-generated service is a one-time thing and there are no plans to do it again. Be in the conversation Samantha Shorey, a communication studies assistant professor with the University of Texas at Austins Moody College of Communications, was appointed to a study panel focused on exploring the future of AI in society. RELATED: UT Austin assistant professor joins AI expert panel Shorey said now is a critical point for communities to decide what the appropriate use of this technology is and which spaces to welcome it into. Whether that means welcoming in a technology, welcoming it under these conditions, resisting a technology or refusing to use a technology, Shorey said. All of those are decisions that we need to be making as a community and as a culture around AI. Shorey said there are certain benefits to using it in certain spaces, like places of worship. She said ChatGPT could be used as a search tool. Can you help me find a passage that relates to grief? Or could you help me find a passage that relates to being at a difficult crossroads in your life? Shorey said. Her biggest concern is putting too much trust in text generated by a computer. She encouraged thinking critically about AI content. Sometimes we just default to think, Oh, the computer must be right,' Shorey said. So we need to bring that same sense of curiosity and questioning to a technology like this. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. The Texas A&M University System issued staff guidance earlier this month on how to comply with the states ban on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, providing a first glimpse into how Texas universities are navigating the thorny implementation of the new law. The guidance, compiled in a list of FAQs, is meant to provide clarity on the law but also shows that university employees trying not to run afoul of the ban may have a hard needle to thread. Guidance for university website and social media administrators states that DEI information should not be on university websites, including but not limited to the acronym, DEI, or the phrase diversity, equity, and inclusion. Universities might organize events that support diversity in a general way but must not promote preferential treatment of any particular group and are open to everyone. It will be the responsibility of every employee to comply with the laws requirements, the guidance said. The systems ethics and compliance office will oversee the implementation of the law and receive guidance from its general counsel as situations or questions arise. In a list of approved revisions by the Board of Regents, the A&M System said it will no longer require faculty job applicants to submit a diversity statement essays where candidates show their commitment to supporting students from diverse backgrounds and fostering inclusive learning environments or allow schools to consider race, sex, color or ethnicity as hiring factors. Requiring training or promoting policies related to DEI will also no longer be permitted. Senate Bill 17, which goes into effect at the beginning of next year, was a high legislative priority this year for Texas Republicans who accused DEI offices and programs of indoctrinating students with left-wing ideology and forcing schools to prioritize hiring based on how much job candidates supported diversity rather than merit. Critics of the law say it is a step backward for higher education in Texas, saying DEI initiatives boost student enrollment numbers among underrepresented populations and help universities hire employees from more diverse backgrounds. In a message sent to faculty, staff and students earlier this month, Texas A&M University Interim President Mark Welsh III said the school will change its hiring practices and training, dissolve its office for diversity and seek other revisions to university policies. Other state universities have taken similar steps. The University of Texas System halted all DEI policies in February and required all universities under the system to develop policies to discipline employees or contractors who break the law. The University of Houston System Chancellor Renu Khator announced in June a list of guidelines the institution will follow in response to the law. Jim Klein, former president of the Texas Association of College Teachers, said higher education leaders around the state may be interpreting the law differently from one another, with some providing more strict guidelines than others. The law, only seven pages long, leaves some rules up for interpretation, he said. My concern now is that I want to make sure that everybody understands what the law actually says [and] what it doesn't say, Shields said. There can be a temptation, by some, to try to overreach and say that this should also be applied to instruction. To continue to receive state funding, Texas universities must comply with the bans requirements. This includes annual reporting to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to prove compliance with SB 17 before schools can spend state funds. To ensure compliance with the law, the Texas A&M University System said disciplinary action may be taken against employees or contractors who violate the law. Individuals can report violations to the systems Ethic Points reporting system. Student organizations including those involved in DEI initiatives are exempt from the law and universities may still provide funds, support and facilities to them. It is important to remember that nothing in SB 17 alters our existing obligations under federal and state law, including the anti-discrimination requirements of Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment, the systems guidance says. We must continue to ensure that our programs and activities are open and available to all persons on a non-discriminatory basis. Concerns about attracting legislators ire over the DEI ban came to a head at A&M earlier this year when the university botched the hiring of Kathleen O. McElroy, a Black journalism professor, to revive the schools journalism program. McElroy previously said that her appointment was caught up in DEI hysteria as Texas university leaders try to figure out what type of work involving race is allowed under the new law. In text messages the system released as part of an internal review, members of the Board of Regents also raised concerns with her previous job history at The New York Times and pushed back against what they perceive as a liberal agenda in higher education. The debacle ultimately led to the resignation of former A&M President M. Katherine Banks, and Jose Luis Bermudez, the former interim dean of the schools College of Arts and Sciences. Shannon Van Zandt, an executive associate dean in the School of Architecture, also resigned over concerns about political interference in the universitys hiring process. Disclosure: Texas A&M University, New York Times, Texas A&M University System, University of Texas System and University of Houston have been financial supporters of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here. The Texas Tribune Festival is almost here! Join us Sept. 21-23 in downtown Austin for 125+ unforgettable conversations featuring nearly 300 speakers. Be there for Texas biggest politics and policy event when you buy your tickets today. YINCHUAN, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- As the river chief of a 2.3-km-long section of the Yellow River near her village, Wang Ruolan has a habit of taking a stroll along the riverbank and picking up garbage when on patrol. "Careless trash-dumping is now rarely seen alongside the riverbank, as people's awareness of protecting the ecological environment of the Yellow River has improved," said Wang, who is also the Party secretary of Shengjin Village in the city of Zhongwei in northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. River chiefs like Wang are an important force safeguarding the ecological environment of the Yellow River, well-known as China's "mother river." Wang has faced a challenging task in convincing villagers to refrain from cultivating crops on the river beach in the middle of the river, as such farming activities jeopardize flood control efforts and pose a threat to the Yellow River's ecosystem. "It's hard for villagers to break the old habit, so I have to explain to them repeatedly that the land is not for farming and also dangerous to reach," Wang said. Pouring her heart and soul into the work, Wang finally won the villagers' support. Today, the river beach has been restored to its natural landscape. "We have the responsibility to protect the Yellow River as it passes through our village," Wang said, adding that nowadays more people are willing to take a walk along the riverbank as the water has become cleaner. Apart from introducing the river chief position, provinces and autonomous regions along the Yellow River have adopted other measures, such as ecological restoration and joint prevention and control mechanisms for water pollution to protect the ecological environment of the "mother river." In the Litong District of Wuzhong City in Ningxia, there is a piece of artificial wetland called Guchengwan that play a vital role in the Yellow River's ecological environment. Part of a wastewater disposal system, the wetland follows the natural working way of waste and pollution disposal in natural wetlands. With an investment of 98 million yuan (about 13.7 million U.S. dollars), the wetland supports a waste disposal facility that further purifies already-treated water, ensuring high-quality soil water in the region. The wetland is filled with pebble stones which can efficiently absorb suspended dirt and purify water, necessary for the breeding of microbes, said Zhou Zijuan, an official of the local environmental protection office. "That is why we have so many wild plants around," Zhou added. Over the years, Ningxia has built several wetlands along the Yellow River's tributaries and gutter ways as a key measure to improve the ecological environment in the watershed areas of the river. Thanks to years of unwavering efforts, the water quality at the Ningxia section of the Yellow River has remained at Class II in recent years, and the proportion of surface water of Class III standard or above has reached 90 percent, according to Ningxia's water conservancy department. Surface water quality in China is divided into five classes, with Class I being the highest quality. With only 7 percent of the Yangtze River's total water resources, the Yellow River supplies water to 12 percent of China's population and supports the irrigation of 17 percent of the country's arable land. To alleviate the burden of the "mother river," China is also actively promoting water conservation. For example, northwest China's Shaanxi Province has carried out the reform of agricultural water prices in all irrigated areas, and east China's Shandong Province has introduced a smart irrigation system to encourage precise and intensive use of water resources. Yin Guosheng, a farmer in Wuzhong City, has tasted the sweetness of the new irrigation method. With support from the local government, he recently installed drip irrigation equipment in his 250-mu (about 16.67-hectare) corn field. "Corn yield has greatly increased with the new watering facility," said Yin, adding that the equipment has helped him reduce water and labor costs. "I now earn an extra amount of over 200 yuan per mu," he said. The breathtaking views and the ecological transformation of the river have boosted tourism, with rafting emerging as one of the most exciting ways to explore the river. "The water used to be smelly, and now it is much cleaner than before," said Li Cong, a rafter from Ningxia's Qingtongxia Yellow River grand canyon tourist area, who has been ferrying passengers on sheepskin rafts across the river for 14 years. The sheepskin raft is the oldest means of transportation used on the river. Tourists are always curious about it and want to go for a ride. "During the drift, some will ask me how the sheepskin raft is made, how I feel living alongside the Yellow River, and the history of some scenic spots along the river. Sometimes I will sing folk songs, and the tourists seem to really enjoy it," Li said. Before Australians last voted in a referendum on First Nations people in 1967, Uncle Bob Anderson set up a table and chair at a tram stop in central Brisbane. From his rail-side office, hed tell anyone who would stop and listen that Australia counted its horses, cows, sheep and goats, but not its Indigenous people. My question to you is, do you think they should be? hed say. Some 56 years later, the Ngugi Elder sat on a chair under the hot Brisbane sun on Sunday, his wispy white hair covered in a straw hat, his presence a sign of support for another referendum concerning his people. Nearby, thousands of people gathered for Walk for Yes rallies in multiple cities around Australia ahead of the October 14 vote. On that day, some 17.5 million registered voters will be asked whether Australia should change the constitution to include a permanent body made up of First Nations people to advise the government on matters affecting them. Now 94, Uncle Bob says a Yes vote isnt just important for him but the country. By talking and walking together as a nation and as a society, we will share a common destiny, he said. Uncle Bob Anderson campaigned for the last referendum on First Nations rights in 1967. - Hilary Whiteman/CNN A vocal No But less than four weeks out from the vote, polls suggest the split between the supporters and opponents is widening, in favor of no change to the constitution. Veteran grassroots Aboriginal activist Wayne Wharton wore the reason for his objections on his T-shirt, as he shouted at Yes supporters on a bridge in central Brisbane. Youre a thief, a liar and a gatekeeper, he yelled, to a mix of ages and races walking by. Give back what you stole, give back what you stole, give back what you stole. Aboriginal activist Wayne Wharton delivers his message to supporters at the "Walk for Yes" rally in Brisbane on Sunday, September 17. - Hilary Whiteman/CNN The 62-year-old Kooma man told CNN on the phone that fundamentally people are being asked the wrong question. In a well-meaning country and a country seeking justice, this question would never have been raised or tabled. The question that would have been offered would have been a question about [a] treaty or just occupation, he said. Like Uncle Bob, Wharton remembers the curfews that confined First Nations people to the outskirts of town between sunset and sunrise, the racial slurs hurled at him and his family, the abuse of his ancestors forced to live in missions, and the theft of First Nations children under policies of assimilation that later prompted a national apology. Wharton said he wants liberation, freedom and restitution delivered through negotiation by the hundreds of Aboriginal nations with people occupying their land. Ive seen many things change in my 60 years, and as the White bigots that created this continent of privilege die, the next generations have a greater sense of fairness and justice, Wharton said. I believe in my childrens time a lot of this will be overcome. And thats why I want to make sure that the door of opportunity is always going to be there for those people when the opportunity comes to create a just occupation, that the mechanism will be there and that it wouldnt have been hijacked by some desperates in 2023 that changed the constitution. A Yes for change Other First Nations people see it differently, including Nick Harvey-Doyle, who at 31 is half the age of Wharton, and a third of the age of the Aboriginal Elder Uncle Bob. From his New York apartment, Harvey-Doyle, an Anaiwan man from New South Wales, co-organized a walk across Brooklyn Bridge on Saturday, attended by more than 350 people, mostly Australians, calling for a Yes vote. Im from a really small country town that has about 10,000 people and I think theres about 8,000 Australians in the New York tri-state area. To me, thats almost essentially a whole country town worth of votes, he said. Nick Harvey-Doyle is studying in New York and is calling for a Yes vote. - Courtesy Nick Harvey-Doyle Harvey-Doyle is a former lawyer who is studying at New York University with a Roberta Sykes Scholarship that provides funding for Indigenous students to undertake postgraduate research abroad. Sykes, who died in 2010, was the first Black Australian to study at Harvard, and fought for a Yes vote in the 1967 Referendum. That referendum, to count Indigenous people in Australias Census figures, passed with over 90% approval. Harvey-Doyle implored Australians living overseas to cast their votes to improve the life outcomes for First Nations people, who have lagged behind the countrys non-Indigenous population in heath and welfare statistics for decades. We as Aboriginal people dont feel like we have carriage over our most intimate and important personal affairs, he said. I think Aboriginal people do have a different way of life from non-Indigenous people and the current structures and institutions we have in place, dont always acknowledge that and arent always in the best cultural place to service our needs. Actually having a body that exists that is enshrined in the constitution that allows us empowerment, to give advice over our own lives and our own issues is actually super important. More than 350 people walked across Brooklyn Bridge in New York to call for a Yes vote in the Australian Voice referendum. - Jonathan PIlkington/YES Campaign According to the Australian Electoral Commission, as of Sunday, more than 96,000 registered voters were outside Australia including those living abroad and some 58,000 who have notified the commission that theyll be traveling on October 14. While voting is compulsory within Australia, being overseas is considered a valid reason not to vote. More than 100 polling centers will be open worldwide to enable people to vote in person, or they can return a postal ballot. Overseas voting starts early, on October 2. To pass, the referendum needs the majority vote across the country, as well as the majority of people in at least four states. Indigenous people wont determine the outcome of this vote that will be up to millions of other non-Indigenous Australians, some of whom object to Indigenous people being given a special place over others within the constitution, calling the vote divisive. Wharton says the concept of millions of non-Indigenous voters deciding whats best for 3% of the population is racist in itself. However, Harvey-Doyle says hes wary of the message a No vote would send in the country and beyond. If we vote No, it says that we are really happy to be apathetic towards the poor life outcomes that some average Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experience, and I feel like that goes against what it means to be Australian to give everyone a fair go, he said. Itll be a really sad global position for us to put ourselves in, if we do vote No. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Thurston County health inspectors do not routinely check local food establishments for listeria, a bacteria that has been linked to a deadly outbreak in Pierce County. Six customers of a Frugals in Tacoma, including a Thurston County resident, developed severe illness after being infected by listeria between Feb. 27 and July 22. Three of them died. In light of that outbreak, The Olympian asked Thurston County Public Health and Social Services officials whether health inspectors could find listeria during routine inspections at local restaurants and how the department would handle an outbreak. Al Quiocho, an PHSS environmental health specialist, said inspectors would only check for listeria at a food establishment if theres reason to suspect people may have been infected there. Its not a pathogen that occurs on a frequent basis, Quiocho said. Thats just not something we look for on a regular basis for a facility inspection. There are typically 10-25 cases of listeriosis, an infection caused by listeria, reported each year in Washington state, according to the state Department of Health. Most people who consume listeria-contaminated food do not get seriously sick, but DOH warns that people who are pregnant, age 65 or older and those with weakened immune systems are especially at risk for severe illness. Our environmental health staff, they work to equip restaurants with the tools and documentation that they need to maintain proper hygiene and maintain standards so that these issues dont arise in the future, said PHSS spokesperson Renae Miller. Healthcare providers are required to alert PHSS when a patient is diagnosed with a listeria infection, Miller said. From there, she said the countys communicable disease response team would investigate how and where the person was infected. Testing for listeria requires multiple environmental samples to be taken at various points throughout an establishment, Miller said. These samples would then be sent to a laboratory for testing, she added. The nature of the bacteria can complicate matters as well. Quiocho said the bacteria is very tolerant of cold temperatures. When it establishes itself in a piece of equipment, Quiocho said it forms a biofilm thats difficult to see and remove. There has to be actual physical cleaning, physical action taking place like with a scrub brush to break apart that biofilm, Quiocho said. Then, any remaining bacteria are taken care of with sanitizer. Investigators began checking the Frugals in Tacoma on Aug. 8, The News Tribune reported. Ten days later, they confirmed the outbreak resulted from listeria that contaminated Frugals milkshake machines. In a statement to The News Tribune, Frugals said staff at the Tacoma location did not correctly follow the manufacturers prescribed cleaning procedures. Scrub sponges were used in place of scrub brushes to clean and sanitize the machine, according to the company. This process was reportedly done once a week outside business hours and was not reviewed as part of the city health departments routine inspections. Notably, the News Tribune found a routine April 17 inspection did not detect listeria in Frugals milkshake machines. The Olympian asked Thurston County PHSS if its inspectors could at least verify if a manufacturers prescribed cleaning regime is being followed correctly. Quiocho said it would not be feasible for inspectors to verify all the different procedures for each piece of equipment being used. It can vary from manufacturer and the piece of equipment that they produce is going to be different in their design, Quiocho said. Inspectors do check whether food establishments are keeping track of who cleans equipment and when as well as whether workers are following various cold-holding requirements, Miller said. Restaurants also are required to date many cold-held products to limit their shelf life to seven days, according to Washington State Administrative Food Code 246-15. This requirement was added in 2022 specifically to combat listeria, Miller said. Following these requirements, in addition to practicing good hygiene and sanitization procedures, will greatly reduce the risk of listeria originating in the food establishment, Miller said. If listeria were found at a food establishment in Thurston County, Miller said the county would direct the establishment to stop using the affected equipment until the situation was resolved. Miller added the county would issue a news release and notify the public via its website and social media as well. An eatery could be closed if inspectors find enough safety concerns to warrant one, Quiocho said. In that case, he said the establishment would have to correct every violation before it could reopen. When Marion needed a police chief, Gideon Cody was willing. The Kansas City Police Department captain and 24-year veteran of the force didnt balk at taking a nearly $56,000 annual pay cut. He wasnt turned off by leaving a Missouri department with more than 1,000 officers to lead a Kansas department with just five. And he didnt mind moving from the big city to a rural town of about 1,900 residents. None of that proved too convenient or too suspicious for Marions city council, which appointed him chief in May. A few months later, Codys decision to raid the local newspaper turned him into one of the most well-known police chiefs in America and placed a spotlight on a career at the KCPD headed toward possible discipline and demotion over alleged insulting and sexist comments before he left for Marion. I did not conduct a full or official background investigation, Marion council member Zach Collett said at a recent council meeting, adding that he took it upon himself to look into Cody as the council searched for a chief this spring while lacking a city administrator. Collett said he had shared with his fellow council members what he was able to find, but acknowledged its been inferred that I should have found more. While Codys search of the newspaper has drawn national attention to Marion and the process that led to his hiring, an investigation by The Star found gaps in Kansas safeguards for identifying and weeding out problematic officers. These weaknesses continue to allow individuals under suspicion of misconduct or questionable behavior to slip into new jobs and apparent fresh starts. The Star spoke with 20 current and former law enforcement officials, local leaders, policing experts and lawmakers. Those interviews reveal Kansas has taken steps to prevent officers from withholding damaging information but doesnt mandate local leaders thoroughly vet officers before sending them out into communities. This is the second story in Broken Government, an occasional series from The Star investigating failures in all levels of government in Kansas and Missouri. The first installment examined how small towns in both states are susceptible to financial fraud and mismanagement. While reforms in recent years have expanded the amount of information available on police officers, Kansas places few requirements on municipalities to actually access this information let alone factor it in when making a hiring decision. In turn, the lack of thorough background checks allows officers to keep troubling details hidden. It all comes back to being thorough. Background investigators need to be trained in specifically doing a background investigation because its not like every other investigation, said John Letteney, president of the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the police chief of Thomasville, Georgia. Marion, Kansas, Police Chief Gideon Cody Kansas police departments arent required to review the past personnel files of officers applying for jobs. And while law enforcement agencies must file a report every time an officer ends their employment that describes the circumstances of the departure, nothing requires departments to review those reports before hiring an officer, unlike in Missouri, which mandates agencies request a copy. Police departments are not required to run applicants through a national database that tracks officers who have been decertified by other states a precaution that prevents officers kicked out of the profession in one area of the country from simply starting over somewhere else. While state officials do use the database, their searches only come after a hire has been made. Legislation to require police departments to review officer records and search the database has gone nowhere. Other factors may also lead cities and police departments to not dig too deeply into applicants. Like many professions, police departments are also struggling to recruit and retain employees. The applicant pool may be especially limited in small towns, which often lack significant human resources operations capable of conducting deep vetting of job candidates. Kansas had about 8,244 law enforcement officers as of July, down from about 8,300 two years ago. Chuck Wexler, director of the Police Executive Research Forum, a Washington-based think tank, said police departments of all sizes are facing staffing crises. Will that have an impact on hiring? Probably. Should it have an impact on hiring? Absolutely not if youre looking to hold people to a higher standard, Wexler said. Hiring a bad police officer from another agency can be a time bomb waiting to happen. Some Kansas municipalities have gone into the hiring process knowing an applicant had a controversial background and made the hire anyway. Liberal, a southwest Kansas town of about 19,800, in January hired Wichita Police Department Deputy Chief Chester Pinkston as its police chief. An internal Wichita report had blamed Pinkston and other high-ranking officers for their roles in mishandling the discipline of officers who sent racist text messages. The report recommended Pinkston receive extensive training and be evaluated to determine whether he was fit to serve as a deputy chief in Wichita. Pinkston went from overseeing hundreds of officers in Wichita, the largest police department in Kansas, to 42 in Liberal, about a 3 hour drive from Wichita. He also took a $3,000 pay cut. Pinkston and another deputy chief have alleged bribery and corruption at Wichita City Hall and have filed a federal lawsuit accusing the city and city officials of retaliation, a hostile work environment and violations of their constitutional rights. Wichita is asking to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing the lawsuit doesnt state a claim upon which relief can be granted and that the city is entitled to qualified immunity. Wichita PD polices on a much more advanced level than most other cities and the opportunity to snag that was I think very, very valuable, said Liberal city manager Rusty Varnado, who praised Pinkstons character and said he had been impressed by his performance so far. Stories like Pinkstons are partly why law enforcement is skeptical of imposing additional statewide mandates on police departments that are hiring. Ed Klumpp, a retired Topeka police chief and a longtime lobbyist for Kansas law enforcement associations, said he worried about a one-size-fits-all policy for hiring. Just because an officer was investigated or fired at their previous department, Klumpp said, does not mean theyre a bad candidate. You have to know what was going on and what those events were, Klumpp said. Liberal, Kansas, hired Chester Pinkston as its police chief despite his role as Wichita deputy chief in a controversy over how officers were disciplined following a scandal involving racist text messages. Finding Wandering Cops Troubled officers who go from department to department to evade scrutiny are often called wandering cops. How many of these officers exist is difficult to measure by their very nature their problems go undetected unless theyre caught. Researchers from Duke University and the University of Chicago, reviewing 33 years of Florida law enforcement records, found that on average 3% of officers working in the state had been previously fired, according to a 2020 Yale Law Journal article. Officers who were fired from their last job seemed to have difficulty finding work, and when they did they tended to move to smaller agencies. Cedar Vale offers perhaps the most high-profile example of a wandering cop incident in Kansas. In 2005, Cedar Vale, a town of about 275 near the Oklahoma border, hired Sean Sullivan as police chief after he had been caught kissing a 10-year-old girl on the mouth in Oregon. Sullivan was later investigated for a relationship with a teenage girl while in Cedar Vale. Sullivans case helped spur adoption of the National Decertification Index, a national non-public database that contains the names of officers who have been stripped of their certifications. The 22-year-old registry is maintained by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training, which allows police departments to search the database before making hiring decisions. The association even included the Sullivan case on a brochure for the NDI to tout its importance. But 18 years after the Sullivan episode in Kansas, only about 60 of the more than 350 law enforcement agencies in the state use the tool, said Doug Schroeder, director of the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers Standards and Training, or KSCPOST. I believe its still somewhat unknown in the law enforcement communities, Schroeder said. Bonner Springs Police Chief William Naff said that while his department doesnt use the National Decertification Index, the agency does check with the commission on prospective employees and deploys polygraph tests and other tools to investigate applicants. He said Bonner Springs is very extensive in our backgrounds compared to some of our counterparts. When we do have questions, we work closely with CPOST investigators to determine if there is any potential risk of loss of certification and if so, we do not proceed with a hiring decision, Naff said in an email. In Kansas, agencies are required to report newly hired officers to the commission within 30 days. The commission, which certifies officers and can revoke their certifications for misconduct, then conducts its own search of the database. All Kansas law enforcement officers must be certified, meaning they meet certain minimum qualifications, including being a U.S. citizen, having no felony convictions, graduating from high school and passing a psychological evaluation. Unfortunately, I think that says to some agencies I dont need to check because I know K-CPOST is going to check it, Schroeder said. My pushback on that is thats just after youve hired somebody. You need to find out that information before you make the job offer. So yes, maybe we can catch somebody from going into law enforcement but its more about preventing it upfront. While the National Decertification Index can weed out officers who have been stripped of their ability to be a police officer, eliminating the most severely tarnished applicants, including individuals convicted of crimes, it doesnt help agencies pick out officers with troubled records that fall short of decertification. For that, Kansas offers hiring departments substantial access to information on applicants if theyre willing to look. State law requires applicants to sign waivers allowing departments to access their personnel records from any previous law enforcement employers. Kansas law enforcement agencies that have previously employed an applicant are also required to hand over the records. The rule preempts any non-disclosure agreements made by police departments after July 1, 2018, meaning agencies cannot enter into contracts to shield an officers files. When an officer leaves employment at a law enforcement agency, for whatever reason, the agency must report the change to the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers Standards and Training within 30 days. The form requires the agency to explain the departure and disclose whether the officer voluntarily resigned under normal circumstances, resigned under questionable circumstances or was fired. The forms are stored in a central registry maintained by the commission and accessible by any agency that hires law enforcement officers, giving departments another channel of information about applicants. Current Kansas law over the last few years gives Kansas agencies a lot of authority to obtain records and information, which have historically been deemed protected, Naff said. A lot of this falls back to the background investigations. Which I can tell you from firsthand experience where agencies come to us for backgrounds or not at all, not every agency does a good job with their background processes. Still, the tool isnt a magic wand. In January 2018, Overland Park police officer Clayton Jenison shot and killed 17-year-old John Albers. The shooting occurred after police were called to the Albers home on a welfare check for the teen, who was believed to be suicidal. Jenison shot Albers six times as the teenager backed out of the driveway. When Jenison resigned the next month, the city reported he had resigned voluntarily under ordinary circumstances. Johns mother, Sheila Albers, said she felt betrayed. And actually, it hurts the profession of policing when that is allowed, she said in a recent interview. Jenison was paid $70,000 in severance when he left the department. He faced no criminal charge and his actions were deemed a proper use of force under state law by Johnson County District Attorney Steve Howe. Jenison didnt work for any other departments but retained his police certification until it lapsed earlier this year. Sheila Albers, the mother of 17-year-old John Albers, who was shot by Overland Park police in 2018, speaks at a press conference criticizing the departments handling of her sons death. Small towns face vetting challenges Like Kansas, Missouri has a similar requirement for law enforcement agencies to file a report with the Missouri Peace Officer Standards and Training within 30 days of an officers departure. The report must include the circumstances of the departure and must specifically say whether the officer violated the regulations of the law enforcement agency or was under investigation for violations of law or gross violations of law enforcement agency regulations. In Marion Police Chief Codys case, its unclear whether city officials reviewed that report or exactly what it says. The city council offered Cody the job in April after interviewing two other candidates, both from the area. Codys last day with the Kansas City Police Department was on April 22 making it highly unlikely the council reviewed the report KCPD was required to file with state officials before offering him the job. The council held a 10-minute executive session about Cody on May 15, before voting 5-0 on May 30 to appoint him as police chief, according to meeting minutes. Before resigning from KCPD, Cody was under internal review. A female officer filed a hostile work environment complaint against him with police department officials. The Star has previously reported Cody was told that at the end of the internal investigation into the hostile work complaint, he would be demoted to sergeant. The Marion County Record, the newspaper Cody raided in August, has reported that Collett, the city council member, told a reporter on May 1 that he asked Missouri Peace Officer Standards and Training about Cody. Collett has also said he asked KCPD for information. Without a city administrator at that time, I believed it important to check the background of the one candidate with no ties to Marion, Collett said at a Sept. 5 council meeting. For that reason and of my own accord, I did make contact with human resources of KCMO PD and with an HR representative I reviewed the official record and pertinent facts related to Mr. Codys employment information was then shared with the rest of the council who were in attendance at an executive session on May 15. The Star has requested KCPD provide any correspondence between the department and Collett but has not yet received any records. Collett and Cody didnt respond to requests for comment. Marion Police Chief Gideon Cody can be seen on the Marion County Records surveillance footage during a raid on the newspaper that was widely condemned. Former Topeka Mayor Larry Wolgast said that when his city hired a police chief, it had a major human resources department that could help provide background on applicants. Thats simply not the case in a small town. There are many, many challenges, of course, of not having the staff, Wolgast said. Michael Powers, a former chief judge of Kansas 8th Judicial District who is running unopposed for Marion mayor, said he intends to bring the same system he used for hiring court employees to city positions. He said the city needs to ensure candidates live up to their resume, especially when hiring department heads. Powers said he believes in digging as deeply as you can with the resources available. The more information we can get before we hire someone, the better, he said. Skepticism of more background requirements The haphazard vetting of Cody illustrates why some lawmakers and police reform advocates are pushing to mandate more rigorous background investigations of police applicants. Sen. Cindy Holscher, an Overland Park Democrat, in 2022 introduced legislation that would require departments to run applicant names through the National Decertification Index. The bill would also require departments to review the records of any applicants in the central registry maintained by the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers Standards and Training. The bill would also direct departments to review any available personnel files from an applicants past law enforcement employers. Holscher said the bill would have still allowed agencies to exercise their own judgment in whether to hire an applicant. Law enforcement, overall, they want to ensure that good hires are being made, Holscher said. The legislation was assigned to the Kansas Senate Judiciary Committee but no action was taken. Sen. Kellie Warren, a Leawood Republican who chairs the committee, didnt answer questions about the bill. Senate Vice President Rick Wilborn, a McPherson Republican who represents Marion, said he wasnt sure whether adding new requirements for agencies would be helpful. Wilborn, who is the committee vice chair, said laws are only useful if they are followed. It seems like when we have something go awry the first thing we want to do is pass more laws and it still boils down to obeying and doing whats professionally right regardless of what the law is, Wilborn said. Klumpp, the lobbyist for Kansas police associations, said the only way to truly understand why an officer left their prior post is often to conduct a full background investigation, visiting their prior home and talking to people. That can take a lot of resources. I think theres financial limits to what some of those agencies could probably do, Klumpp said. When Liberal hired Chief Pinkston away from the Wichita Police Department, it spent about $40,000 on its police chief search, said Varnado, the city manager. The city used Strategic Government Resources, a Texas-based consulting firm that offers executive recruitment services. The firm helped identify a dozen candidates, which the city narrowed down to five and then to two finalists. Varnado made the decision to hire Pinkston. Albers, whose son was shot and killed by an Overland Park officer, said departments should be required to review the state records available on police applicants. Thats a no-brainer, she said. Thats just good employment practice. I dont care what profession. The Wichita Eagles Chance Swaim contributed reporting DUBAI (Reuters) - The United States and Iran are to free five detainees each under an exchange agreement that also involves the transfer of $6 billion of unfrozen Iranian assets from South Korea to accounts in Qatar. The deal removes one major irritant between Iran and the U.S., whose animosity dates back to the Central Intelligence Agency's orchestration of the overthrow of Irans popular Prime Minister Mohammed Mossadegh in 1953 and restoration of the Shah, Mohammed Reza Pahlavi, who became a staunch U.S. ally. Following is a chronology of major events in relations between the Iran and the United States: 1953 - The CIA helps orchestrate overthrow of Irans popular Prime Minister Mohammed Mossadegh, restoring to power Shah Mohammed Reza Pahlavi. 1957 - The U.S. and Iran sign an agreement on civil nuclear cooperation. 1967 - The U.S. provides Iran with a nuclear reactor along with weapons-grade 93% enriched uranium fuel. 1968 - Iran signs the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty which permits it to have a civil nuclear program in return for a commitment not to acquire nuclear weapons. 1979 - Irans Islamic Revolution forces U.S.-backed shah to flee. Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini returns from exile and becomes supreme religious guide. Fundamentalist students seize the U.S. Embassy in Tehran and hold staff hostage. 1980 - The U.S. cuts diplomatic ties with Iran, seizes Iranian assets and bans most trade with Tehran. Hostage rescue mission ordered by President Jimmy Carter fails. 1981 - Iran releases 52 U.S. hostages minutes after Carter steps down and Ronald Reagan is inaugurated as U.S. president. 1984 - U.S. lists Iran as a state sponsor of terrorism. 1986 - Reagan reveals secret arms deal with Tehran in violation of U.S. arms embargo. 1988 - U.S. warship Vincennes mistakenly shoots down Iranian passenger plane over the Gulf, killing all 290 aboard. 2002 - President George W. Bush declares that Iran, Iraq and North Korea are an "axis of evil." U.S. officials accuse Tehran of operating secret nuclear weapons program. 2009 - Britain, France and the United States announce that Iran is building a secret uranium-enrichment site at Fordow. 2012 - U.S. law gives President Barack Obama the power to sanction foreign banks if they fail to significantly reduce imports of Iranian oil. Iranian oil sales drop, sparking an economic downturn. U.S. and Iranian officials begin secret talks, which intensify in 2013, on the nuclear issue. 2013 - Hassan Rouhani is elected Irans president on a platform of improving Irans relations with the world and its economy. 2015 - Iran and six major powers reach a nuclear agreement, under which Tehran agrees to curb its nuclear work in return for sanctions relief. 2018 - President Donald Trump withdraws from the nuclear deal in May, and reimposes crippling economic sanctions on Iran. 2019 - In April, the U.S. designates the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps a "terrorist organization". In May, Iran says it will increase enriched uranium production, bucking its commitments under the nuclear accord. In September, Saudi Arabias state-run oil company is attacked by drones and missiles believed to be from Iran; Tehran denies involvement. 2020 - Iran vows harsh revenge after a U.S. air strike in Baghdad kills special forces commander Qassem Soleimani, architect of Iran's military influence in the Middle East. 2021 - U.S. and Iranian officials hold six rounds of indirect nuclear talks in Vienna between April and June. A new round begins on Nov. 29 after a five-month hiatus triggered by the election of Iran's hardline president Ebrahim Raisi. 2022 - Indirect talks between Tehran and Washington stall in September, leading both sides to sketch out steps that could free some detained U.S. citizens and unfreeze some Iranian assets abroad. 2023 - In August, Iran and the United States agree a swap of detainees and the unfreezing of $6 billion of Iranian assets in South Korea. (Writing by Arshad Mohammed, Michael Georgy and Parisa Hafezi, Editing by Samia Nakhoul and William Maclean) TOMS RIVER - A township woman has been sentenced to five years in state prison for a horrific motor vehicle crash in which she struck and killed an Old Bridge man, pinning him between her car and his own, while she was driving drunk, said Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer. Ashley Beams, 32, will be required to serve at least 85% of the sentence before she is eligible for parole. The crash took place on Feb. 8, 2022 on Bay Avenue in Toms River. Beams pleaded guilty to vehicular homicide in July. The victim, James Cruz, 62, of the Parlin section of Old Bridge, died after Beams failed to maintain her lane while going east on Bay Avenue. After passing Twin Oaks Drive, Beams wandered onto the shoulder of the road where Cruz was parked and was in the process of getting a package out of the trunk of his vehicle, a statement from the Prosecutors Office said on Monday. The subsequent impact caused Cruzs body to become wedged between the two vehicles and he was carried a significant distance eastbound on Bay Avenue. Cruz was pronounced dead at the scene. Officers from the Toms River Police Department responded about 10:30 p.m. on that date, the statement said. Previously: Toms River woman indicted in crash that killed Old Bridge man After the crash, Beams underwent a blood test and was found to have had a blood alcohol concentration level that was substantially higher than .08 the threshold by which a motorist in New Jersey is determined to be operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, according to the Prosecutors Office. Beams on Friday also pleaded guilty before state Superior Court Judge Guy P. Ryan to the motor vehicle offense of driving while under the influence of alcohol, the statement said. After the crash, Beams had been taken to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune for injuries she suffered in the impact, at which time a sample of her blood was drawn, according to the Prosecutors Office. Beams was arrested on the charges Feb. 16, 2022 after an investigation by the Vehicular Homicide Unit of the Prosecutors Office and the Ocean County Sheriffs Office Crime Scene Investigations Unit. She was taken to the county jail in Toms River at the time, but was later released pending the outcome of the criminal case against her. Supervising Assistant Prosecutors Robert Cassidy and Jamie Schron handled the case on behalf of the state of New Jersey. Contact Asbury Park Press reporter Erik Larsen at elarsen@gannettnj.com. This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Toms River NJ woman sentenced for vehicular homicide of Old Bridge man The United Nations' International Court of Justice (ICJ) has resumed hearings on Ukraine's lawsuit against Russia over false allegations of genocide that Moscow used to justify its full-scale invasion. From Sept. 18 to Sept. 27, the Hague-based court will hold public hearings on preliminary objections raised by Russia. Lawyers for Moscow will try to prove the UN's principal judicial organ does not have jurisdiction to hear the case, while Kyiv will urge the ICJ to proceed to hearings on the substance of Ukraine's claims. Ukraine's lawsuit is supported by 32 intervening states who will make their statements on Sept. 20. Read also: EU top justice official: We arent waiting for wars end to prosecute Russian crimes The list includes 26 countries of the European Union, excluding only Hungary, as well as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, Liechtenstein, and the U.K. It is reportedly the largest number of countries to ever join another nation's lawsuit at the Hague court. Ukraine filed the lawsuit against Russia at the Hague in February 2022, arguing that the Kremlin had used false claims about acts of genocide in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts as a justification to launch an all-out war against Ukraine. In its lawsuit, Ukraine "emphatically denies" that such genocide has occurred, aiming "to establish that Russia has no lawful basis to take action in and against Ukraine for the purpose of preventing and punishing any purported genocide." Read also: Paul Grod: A cry to bring Russia to justice for its genocidal war in Ukraine Kyiv's lawyers also accused Moscow of "planning acts of genocide in Ukraine," adding that Russia "is intentionally killing and inflicting serious injury on members of the Ukrainian nationality." The parliaments of eight countries, including Ukraine, have already recognized the acts committed by Russian invading forces as genocide. Another intergovernmental tribunal in the Hague, the International Criminal Court (ICC), has issued arrest warrants against the Russian dictator Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova for the mass abduction of Ukrainian children. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Top US and Chinese diplomats met in Malta over the weekend as the worlds two largest economies attempted to smooth strained relations and clear a path for their respective presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping to meet in November. According to both Beijing and Washington, the White House national security adviser, Jake Sullivan , met multiple times with Chinas foreign minister, Wang Yi, in Malta, where according to separate statements candid, substantive and constructive talks were held. Related: Joe Biden to meet Benjamin Netanyahu at UN in awkward rapprochement A readout from the White House on Sunday said the two officials had discussed the US-China bilateral relationship, global and regional security concerns, Russias war against Ukraine, and issues around the Taiwan strait. Chinas foreign ministry said the sides came away with an agreement to maintain high-level exchanges and hold bilateral consultations on Asia-Pacific affairs, maritime issues and foreign policy. Separately, a senior Biden administration official said there were also limited early signs that military communications between the two sides might start to be restored. The US official told Reuters there have been some small or limited indications that Beijing is ready to reopen some cross-military communications used to de-escalate conflict between the two countries after those ties were cut following a visit to Taiwan by the then House speaker, Nancy Pelosi, in August 2022. The meetings between Wang and Sullivan are their first since May, four months after Biden ordered American fighter jets to shoot down a Chinese-operated balloon off the US coast. China condemned the downing as a serious violation of international practice. The balloons downing later caused the Biden administration to cancel a trip to Beijing by the US secretary of state, Antony Blinken. Chinas foreign minister, Wang Yi. Photograph: Tatan Syuflana/AP Strained US-China relations over American support for Taiwan, trade frictions about intellectual property and a Chinese military buildup particularly in the area of hypersonic missiles, which the US does not have put in doubt a meeting between Biden and Xi at an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) meeting in San Francisco in November. Last week, Chinas top security agency hinted that any meeting between the two leaders depended on the US showing sufficient sincerity. Biden and Xi have not met since November 2022, when they had a three-and-a-half-hour sideline meeting at the G20 in Bali, Indonesia. After that meeting, Biden said the US would compete vigorously with China while insisting that hes not looking for conflict. Xi said the countries need to explore the right way to get along. But Xi was a no-show at the G20 summit in New Delhi, India, last weekend. Biden later expressed disappointment but added that he was going to get to see him. Sundays readout provided by the White House said the meeting between Sullivan and Wang was part of ongoing efforts to maintain open lines of communication and responsibly manage the relationship. The statement added that the talks had built on the Bali conversation, the meetings of Sullivan and Wang in May, and US diplomatic visits to Beijing over the past several months by Blinken, the treasury secretary, Janet Yellen, special climate envoy, John Kerry, and commerce secretary, Gina Raimondo. The US notice said that Sullivan noted the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan strait during the meetings. According to the Chinese foreign ministry statement, Wang cautioned the US that Taiwan was the first insurmountable red line of Sino-US relations. Wang also said Chinas development had a strong internal momentum and cannot be stopped, and that the Chinese peoples legitimate right to development cannot be deprived. Reuters contributed reporting Editors Note: Sign up for CNNs Meanwhile in China newsletter which explores what you need to know about the countrys rise and how it impacts the world. Chinas top diplomat Wang Yi and United States national security adviser Jake Sullivan met for two days of talks in Malta over the weekend, as the worlds two leading economies seek to stabilize rocky relations and potentially smooth a path for leaders Joe Biden and Xi Jinping to meet in November. In separate readouts, both sides said the discussions that took place over multiple meetings in the Mediterranean island nation were candid, substantive, and constructive. The US said the two governments had committed to pursuing additional high-level engagement and consultations in key areas in the coming months in a signal of the expectation of continued diplomacy. Chinas Foreign Ministry said the two sides agreed to continue high-level communication on several fronts, including consultations on Asia-Pacific affairs, maritime affairs, and foreign policy. The meeting follows a string of high-level visits from top US officials to Beijing in recent months and comes ahead of an opportunity for Chinese leader Xi to visit the US in November, when President Biden will host world leaders for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco. Following the weekends talks, a senior Biden administration official said the White House had nothing to announce regarding a potential meeting between the two leaders, but noted that Biden hopes to meet with Xi soon. Biden and Xi last met in November 2022 on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Bali. The meeting between Wang and Sullivan comes as Beijing and Washington have been taking steps to reestablish and strengthen communication to avoid their increasingly fraught and contentious relationship veering into conflict. China severed multiples lines of communication with the US last August after a visit from then-US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan. Chinas ruling Communist Party views the self-ruled island democracy as its own and has not ruled out taking it by force. The island remains one of the thorniest subjects between the two, with Wang telling Sullivan over the weekend that the Taiwan issue is the first insurmountable red line in Sino-US relations, according to a readout from Chinas Foreign Ministry. The United States must abide by the three Sino-US joint communiques and implement its commitment not to support Taiwan independence, the statement read, referring to the three joint statements made during the 1970s and early 80s that helped establish relations between the two sides. The US noted the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, according to the White Houses official account of the meetings, which also said the two sides discussed Russias war against Ukraine and global and regional security issues. Military communication The two sides also discussed the need to re-establish military-to-military dialogue between the US and China, the senior Biden official said following the weekend meeting. The official said there were limited indications that China may be willing to re-establish those channels, but declined to elaborate further. Beijing had previously pointed to Americas unilateral sanctions, as an obstacle that needs to be removed before such dialogue can resume, in an apparent reference to US sanctions on Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu. Li has been at the center of mounting speculation in recent days that he has been placed under Communist Party investigation after vanishing from view for more than two weeks amid a series of unexplained personnel shakeups that roiled the partys upper ranks this summer. He had assumed his role earlier this year and has been under US sanctions since 2018 over Chinas purchase of Russian weapons. Asked whether Sullivan raised the whereabouts of Li, and the removal earlier this summer of then-Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang, the Biden administration official said the subject did not come up during the talks. Wang, who held the role of foreign minister for a decade until the end of last year and then stepped in again following Qins removal, is expected to continue his diplomatic travels with a visit to Moscow on Monday. Wang would visit the country between September 18 and 21, Chinas Foreign Ministry said Monday. He is expected to meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to discuss a wide range of bilateral cooperation issues, according to a statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry last week. Those include a detailed exchange of views on issues related to a settlement in Ukraine, the Russian ministry said. That meeting comes on the heels of a closely watched summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Wednesday, which the US has warned could lead to Pyongyang supplying Moscow with munitions for its war in Ukraine. CNNs Natasha Bertrand, Steven Jiang and Mengchen Zhang contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Russia has well over 200,000 troops stationed in the occupied parts of Ukraine, Chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley said in an interview with CNN on Sept. 18. While acknowledging that Ukraine's counteroffensive has moved at a relatively slow pace, the general stressed that the Ukrainian military "is not a spent force" and is making steady gains. According to Milley, Kyiv's ongoing military campaign cannot be described as a failure since Ukraine broke through several Russian defensive belts and still has time to achieve more results. The general, who is expected to retire as the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff by the end of the month, said earlier on Sept. 10 that Ukraine has about 30-45 days remaining for the offensive before the weather worsens. Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support us Milley nevertheless noted that even if the counteroffensive achieves all its goals, it would not be enough to push out Russian forces completely from Ukraine. Ejecting all the 200,000 occupying troops will take a "considerable length of time," well beyond the scope of the ongoing campaign, the general said. Ukraine's counteroffensive which has been ongoing in the country's southeast at least since June has attracted criticism for its slow pace and limited gains. However, the past few weeks saw several notable successes by Ukraine as the military broke through the first line of Russian defenses in the south and began fighting at the supposedly weaker second line. Earlier on Sept. 18, General Oleksandr Syrskyi who heads the military operations in the east said that Ukrainian troops had broken through one of the Russian defensive lines also near Bakhmut on the eastern front. The recent liberation of the Klishchiivka village south of the occupied city reportedly created a bridgehead for further counteroffensive operations in the area, Ukrainian military spokesperson Illia Yevlash said. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine liberates Klishchiivka in Donetsk Oblast after months of heavy fighting Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Kyiv will sue Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia over their refusal to lift a ban on imports of Ukrainian agricultural products, Ukraine's Trade Representative Taras Kachka told Politico in an interview published on Sept. 18. Kachka said that Ukraine would start legal proceedings "to prove that these actions are legally wrong." Earlier in May, the EU imposed restrictions that allowed Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, Romania, and Bulgaria to ban the domestic sale of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflower seed, while still permitting the transit of these products for exports elsewhere. The nations requested the measure due to complaints from local farmers that cheap Ukrainian imports were driving down agriculture prices. While the EU decided not to extend the ban beyond Sept. 15 after Kyiv pledged to take action to tighten export controls to neighboring countries, Poland, Slovakia and Hungary continued restrictions on Ukrainian agricultural products. Read also: Romanian farmer association asks country to ban Ukrainian grain imports after EU restrictions lifted In the interview, Kachka said that Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia going against a European Commission decision is not just an internal matter for the EU, but the the biggest systemic concern of whether international trade partners can trust Brussels speaks on behalf of the union. According to Politico, Ukraine plans to sue the countries at the World Trade Organization rather than through its own trade agreement with the EU. "I think that all the world should see how member states in the EU behave towards trade partners and their own Union because it can influence other states as well," said Kachka. Read also: Ukraines grain overload sours countrys relationship with key allies While Slovakia simply prolonged the earlier EU ban on the four groups of goods, Poland introduced additional restrictions on Ukrainian flour and feed, Politico wrote. Hungary went even further, adding 25 more products to the ban list, including meat. "These arbitrary prohibitions are ridiculous," Kachka said. "I think that Hungary here is making a political statement that it wants to block trade with Ukraine and as well disregard Brussels completely." The official added that if Poland doesn't abandon the additional restrictions, Ukraine "would be forced to retaliate... and would prohibit the import of fruit and vegetables from Poland." Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Full text: Remarks by Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the opening ceremony of the 20th China-ASEAN Expo Xinhua) 13:27, September 18, 2023 NANNING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Sunday addressed the opening ceremony of the 20th China-ASEAN Expo and China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit in Nanning, the capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The following is the full text of the speech: Remarks by H.E. Li Qiang Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China At the Opening Ceremony of the 20th China-ASEAN Expo and China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit Nanning, September 17, 2023 Leaders of the ASEAN Countries, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, Friends, Good morning! It's a great pleasure to join you in the beautiful "Green City" Nanning for the 20th China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) and China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit (CABIS). Many present today attended the 26th China-ASEAN Summit in Jakarta ten days ago, and now we are meeting again in Nanning. This speaks volumes about the intensity and depth of the exchanges and cooperation between China and ASEAN. At the outset, on behalf of the Chinese government, I wish to extend warm congratulations on the opening of CAEXPO and CABIS, and a hearty welcome to the leaders and guests attending the event. Over the course of 20 years, CAEXPO and CABIS have borne witness to the sustained growth of China-ASEAN relations. Twenty years ago, as ASEAN's dialogue partner, China was the first country to join the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC), and together with ASEAN established a strategic partnership for peace and prosperity. Ten years ago, President Xi Jinping delivered an important speech at the Indonesian parliament, during which he proposed that China and ASEAN countries build a 21st Century Maritime Silk Road and foster a closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future. His proposal received positive response from ASEAN countries and opened a new chapter of friendship and cooperation between the two sides. Two years ago, at the Special Summit to Commemorate the 30th Anniversary of China-ASEAN Dialogue Relations, President Xi Jinping proposed that China and ASEAN build a peaceful, safe and secure, prosperous, beautiful and amicable home, and together with leaders of ASEAN countries, mapped out a new blueprint for the future of China-ASEAN cooperation and development. Over the years, we have upheld unity for strength. Keeping firm to the path of peaceful development, we have preserved regional peace and tranquility in a world fraught with turbulence and change, and jointly created the miracle of economic takeoff. Our combined GDP as a share of the global total surged from 6.1 percent in 2002 to 21.5 percent last year, and our two billion-plus people are significantly better off. We have upheld win-win cooperation, made breakthroughs in connectivity, and steadily advanced regional economic integration and economic and trade cooperation. Trade and investment between the two sides has grown despite a weak global economy. Our trade grew by 16.8 times over the past 20 years, and we have been each other's largest trading partners for three years running. Two-way cumulative investment has surpassed USD 380 billion. We have upheld the common good of the world, jointly tackled global challenges, and fostered a steady stream of cooperation highlights in poverty reduction, climate action, environmental protection and energy transition. The China-ASEAN relationship has grown into the most successful and vibrant model for cooperation in the Asia-Pacific, and is a vivid illustration of building a community with a shared future for mankind. Looking back, we have every reason to be proud of these achievements, and feel keenly about the trials and tribulations along the way. Looking ahead, we are full of confidence and hope, but not without concerns and worries. We, in this turbulent and complex world, are faced with many difficult issues and challenges that require a collective response. Against the backdrop of unprecedented global transformation, we must size up the situation and adapt to the overall trend. More importantly, we need to bear in mind the essential principles that remain constant despite the myriad of changes in the world, and the overarching vision that guides us to where we are today. The sound relations between China and ASEAN we enjoy today are the hard-won result achieved through our years-long concerted efforts. In my view, the essential principle and vision that made this feat possible are the insightful proposition of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness put forth by President Xi Jinping. As a fundamental guideline of China's neighborhood diplomacy, these four words represent the right approach to build friendly ties with neighbors and hold the key to our shared endeavor for a brighter future. We need to make greater efforts to practice the principle of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness, foster an environment conducive to development, prosperity, peace and tranquility, and bring more benefits to neighboring countries and people in the region through our own development. First, for greater amity, we need to further strengthen our affinity. Connected by mountains, waters and similar cultures, China and ASEAN countries have enjoyed a profound friendship since ancient times. Closer interaction brings greater amity to relatives and friends alike. We should fully harness the various exchange platforms to facilitate regular and candid exchanges, narrow differences and build consensus through enhanced dialogue, and cement the emotional bond for our common development. China will work with ASEAN to take the China-ASEAN Year of People-to-People Exchanges in 2024 as an opportunity to expand cooperation in culture, tourism, training and among the youth, in order to promote greater understanding and amity between our peoples. We will also make good use of CAEXPO, the China International Import Expo (CIIE), the Canton Fair, the China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) and the China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE), among others, to provide businesses from both sides with a longstanding platform for exchange and cooperation. Second, for greater sincerity, we need to cement the foundation of trust. As ancient Chinese wisdom cautions, a person without credibility can't establish himself in society, and a country without credibility will surely decline. In a world fraught with instability, uncertainty and unforeseeable factors, credibility and good faith have become all the more precious. For economic and trade cooperation, nothing is more important than being honest to each other and setting up fair, consistent, transparent and predictable market rules and policies. China believes in treating others with sincerity and integrity, and has followed this way in its relations with ASEAN countries. We hope to work with ASEAN countries to advance all-round cooperation with good faith, and deliver on our agreed cooperation programs by taking concrete actions. I wish to reiterate that China will remain committed to its fundamental state policy of opening up, deepen institutional opening up in rules, regulations, management and standards, and step up the protection of intellectual property rights. China will make every effort to protect and promote fair competition, and create an enabling business environment that provides a safe, secure and pleasant experience to investors from all countries. Third, for greater mutual benefit, we need to strengthen the bonds of common interests. China and ASEAN provide each other with important development opportunities. We share extensive common interests in terms of accessing mega-sized markets, tapping economic complementarity and efficiently allocating resources. To achieve greater development, it is imperative that we cooperate under the principle of mutual benefit, forge an even closer network of common interests, and bring integration of interests to a higher level. China will continue to import more specialty products from ASEAN countries, and scale up trade in intermediate goods with ASEAN. We need to fully leverage the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor to upgrade regional connectivity. We need to develop various types of demonstration parks of cooperation, expand cooperation in emerging areas such as green and low-carbon development and the digital economy, and build a more stable and smooth regional industrial and supply chain system based on comparative strengths, to consolidate and raise the overall competitiveness of our region. Fourth, for greater inclusiveness, we need to embrace a more open mind. Both China and ASEAN countries have diverse cultures and ethnicities. Our millennial-long interactions have nurtured our common DNA of openness and inclusiveness. Over the past decades, our region has enjoyed rapid growth in the course of integration. This is made possible by our shared commitment to promoting cooperation and mutual benefit through openness and inclusiveness. The Asia-Pacific is big enough for all countries to develop together. As the global recovery remains rocky and growth across countries is under strain, it is all the more important for us to uphold openness and inclusiveness and strengthen solidarity and coordination. China will continue to firmly support the ASEAN-centered regional cooperation architecture, better synergize the Belt and Road Initiative with the development strategies of other countries, and help ASEAN countries realize their development goals. China will work with ASEAN countries to advance regional economic integration, ensure good progress in the implementation of the RCEP, and accelerate negotiations on the China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement 3.0, to further liberalize and facilitate trade and investment. Ladies and Gentlemen, Friends, Thanks to our collective efforts in the past two decades, CAEXPO and CABIS have grown into an important platform for regional integration, and produced fruitful results. From this new starting point, we must continue developing and making good use of the platform to reinforce exchanges, strengthen friendship, create more business opportunities and share greater benefits. Let us work together to build a closer community with a shared future and usher in a more prosperous and brighter future. To conclude, I wish the event a full success. Thank you. (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun) NANNING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- ASEAN leaders attending the ongoing 20th China-ASEAN Expo highlighted the achievements of China-ASEAN cooperation and expressed optimism about China's economic development prospects. Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh noted that China's sustained high-speed growth over the past decades has contributed significantly to global economic growth and stability, making it an important driving force for the world economy. Pham Minh Chinh made the remarks at the opening ceremony of the expo in Nanning, the capital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, south China. "ASEAN countries, including Vietnam, have always appreciated and highly valued China's important contribution to cooperation and common prosperity in the region," he said. He also noted that China has consistently played the role of a responsible major country, acting as a stabilizer of regional economic stability. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative and the 20th anniversary of the China-ASEAN Expo. Official data shows that the bilateral trade volume between China and ASEAN had increased from about 100 billion U.S. dollars in 2004 to 975.34 billion U.S. dollars in 2022. China has been the ASEAN bloc's largest trading partner for 14 consecutive years, while ASEAN has been China's largest trading partner for three consecutive years. At the expo, multiple leaders voiced their commitment to further strengthening cooperation with China to promote their own countries' development and regional economic integration. Laotian Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone noted that Laos-China infrastructure cooperation has yielded tangible results, adding that the China-Laos Railway, in particular, has not only strengthened connectivity between Laos and China but also facilitated economic, trade, investment, and tourism development in the region. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the strong and dynamic economic and trade relations between China and ASEAN. He noted that China has long been Malaysia's major export destination, and he anticipates that practical cooperation between Malaysia and China will only strengthen in the future. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet noted that the close relationship between ASEAN and China demonstrates the benefits of enhanced multilateral cooperation. In the future, ASEAN and China need to deepen cooperation through greater market openness, strengthened connectivity, and enhanced supply chain resilience, Hun Manet said, adding that increased investment and technical cooperation are needed to enable developing countries to benefit from free and multilateral trade. Christopher "Shane" Burbank speaks with an attorney and codefendants during the pre-trail motion in the trial of Tacoma Police Officers Christopher Burbank, Matthew Collins and Timothy Rankine in the killing of Manny Ellis at Pierce County Superior Court Monday, Sept. 18, 2023, Tacoma, Wash. (Brian Hayes/The News Tribune via AP, Pool) TACOMA, Wash. (AP) Jury selection started Monday in the trial of three Tacoma police officers charged in the death of Manuel Manny Ellis, a 33-year-old Black man who was tackled, punched, shocked with a stun gun and held face down on a sidewalk in March 2020, two months before George Floyd met a similar fate. Officers Christopher Burbank and Matthew Collins, who are white, have been charged with second-degree murder, and Timothy Rankine, who is Asian American, faces first-degree manslaughter charges. They pleaded not guilty. Jury selection is expected to take two weeks and opening statements are slated to start Oct. 2 in Pierce County Superior Court in Tacoma. The trial is expected to run four days each week until December. Ellis purchased a box of doughnuts and some water at a convenience store at about 11:21 p.m. that Tuesday night and walked across the street, where he encountered Burbank and Collins sitting in a patrol car, according to a probable cause statement filed by the Washington Attorney Generals Office. Burbank and Collins said Ellis tried to get into a stranger's car and then attacked the officers when they confronted him. But witnesses say the officers jumped out of their car as Ellis walked by and knocked him to the ground. Several witnesses recorded the encounter with their cellphones as they screamed for the officers to stop, the document said. A video taken by a woman sitting in a car behind the officers shows Burbank wrapping his arms around Ellis, lifting him into the air and slamming him onto the pavement, striking him with his fist in the process, the statement said. Collins then moves in towards Ellis and brings his weight down onto him, the document said. With Ellis underneath him, Collins begins striking Elliss head with his fist. Meanwhile, Burbank draws his Taser gun and walks close in towards Ellis. Collins can be seen on S.M.s video striking Elliss head four times, with Ellis screaming after each strike. Collins wrapped his arm around Ellis' neck while squeezing and his head fell limply to the sidewalk. The officer also pressed on Ellis' back while pushing his face into the ground, the document said. A doorbell security camera across the street picked up Ellis saying, Cant breathe, sir. Cant breathe, and one of the officers responded by saying, Shut the (expletive) up, man." The officers then wrapped a hobble restraint device around Ellis' legs and linked it to his handcuffs behind his back in a hog-tie position while he remained in the prone position. They also pulled a spit-hood over his head. After the hobble was applied, he stopped moving, the statement said. All three witnesses said Ellis was not fighting back during the struggle, the prosecutor said. Ellis was pronounced dead at the scene. The Ellis family released a statement through their lawyer late Monday saying they hope the start of the trial will help mark a turning point in the history of our country in favor of truth and justice. We believe that Manny was tortured to death, and before his body had even turned cold the Tacoma police began their campaign to slander their victim and obstruct justice, said the release from Monet Carter-Mixon and Matthew Ellis, Manny Ellis' sister and brother. We reject the shameful efforts to demonize our loved one and to try and make him seem like some kind of monster. Brett Purtzer, a lawyer representing Burbank, said it was patiently false and absurd to say Ellis was tortured. Burbank is looking forward to going to trial where the truth will be told, he said. Messages sent seeking comment from the lawyers for Collins and Rankine were not immediately returned. The Pierce County Medical Examiner said the cause of death was hypoxia, a lack of oxygen, "due to physical restraint and found the manner of death was homicide. Lawyers for the officers filed reports saying Ellis was resisting and trying to get away, so the officers needed to use force to get him into custody. Experts hired by the officers blamed his death on methamphetamine use and heart problems. They called it an accident. The Pierce County Sheriff's Office initially investigated the death, but months later when it was revealed sheriff's personnel were involved in the detention, Gov. Jay Inslee ordered the Washington State Patrol to take over the investigation and referred the charging decision to the Washington Attorney General's Office. Charges were filed on May 27, 2021, marking the first time the attorney general's office has charged a law enforcement officer with murder. It was only the second time an officer has been charged with murder in Washington state since voters approved Initiative 940 in 2018, which removed the requirement that prosecutors show an officer acted with malice in order to be charged with murder. Auburn Officer Jeffrey Nelson was charged in 2020 with second-degree murder and first-degree assault in the shooting death of Jesse Sarey on May 31, 2019. His trial is pending. Ellis' family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the county and officers and the Pierce County Council approved a $4 million settlement agreement in 2022. The deal ended the countys involvement, but Monet Carter-Mixon, and mother, Marcia Carter, continue to pursue their wrongful death lawsuit against the city of Tacoma. ___ This story has been corrected to properly describe the races of the three officers charged. Two are white and one is Asian American; they are not all white. I tried to outsmart United Airlines by skipping the first leg of my flight to save $900. My plan backfired, I kind of got caught, and I ended up rerouting my entire trip. I'd never try a skiplagging-style trick when flying again. In August 2021, I booked my first solo trip to Europe: A $439 United flight from Cleveland to Madrid with a short layover in Newark, New Jersey. I was nervous but excited to be exercising my freedom to explore my new life as a full-time travel blogger, and I planned to see Madrid, Cordoba, and Seville in Spain. In early November, however, my husband was asked to go to Boston for a business trip the same week as my Madrid flight. I was determined to go with him, as I'd always wanted to explore the New England state. Since my flight wasn't until Friday, I figured I'd just change my departure city from Cleveland to Boston. The process was easy, but United would charge me a fare difference of about $900 to change my booking. The fee may have been due to a price spike on the flight, but I didn't want to pay it. Instead, I tried to book a United flight from Boston to Newark for $60. I'd just skip the first half of my flight and catch the Newark to Madrid connection from my original ticket. In a way, I was attempting a version of skiplagging, a controversial money-saving strategy where passengers book tickets with a layover while planning to skip the second leg of their flights. I'd just be skipping the first leg instead. But United promptly notified me via email that they'd canceled this flight for being a duplicate booking. Still feeling crafty, I kept my plan in place and just booked a similar flight to Newark with JetBlue and headed off to Massachusetts. My 'trick' backfired and I ended up changing my travel plans I learned my lesson trying to skip a leg of my flight on United Airlines. Thierry Monasse/Getty Images I had an amazing fall visit to the Boston area, and on Friday morning, I headed to Boston Logan International Airport and boarded my flight to Newark. The whole time, I felt uneasy. I hadn't been able to check in for my Madrid flight online, but I figured I'd be able to resolve the issue with a United agent upon arrival in Newark. Once I landed, an agent pulled up my itinerary and asked why I wasn't on my flight from Cleveland. I didn't get why I had to explain my personal travel arrangements, so I said plans had changed and I needed to fly out of Boston instead. They told me because I didn't get on my first flight from Cleaveland, my entire itinerary would be canceled, and my only option was to rebook my ticket for the (apparently unavoidable) fare difference of $900. The airplane seat to Spain I'd purchased was waiting for me, yet here I was, finding out that it was no longer mine. My face flushed in shame at my failed attempt at outsmarting an airline. Dejected, I canceled my plans since the trip was mostly refundable. I booked a flight back to Boston to meet up with my husband and was both surprised and grateful to receive a $439 flight voucher from United a week later. I eventually applied the voucher toward an unforgettable two-week solo trip to Paris, although I still haven't visited Madrid, Cordoba, or Seville. Looking back, my best option would've been to fly back to Cleveland to catch my original flight. I'm now aware that skiplagging in any form isn't allowed, and can confidently say you'll never catch me intentionally missing a connection again. Read the original article on Insider Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday that credible allegations may tie India to the assassination of a Sikh leader in the country. Trudeau addressed the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian who was a staunch supporter of the creation of a separate Sikh state in Punjab, India, called Khalistan. In a speech to lawmakers in the Canadian House of Commons, Trudeau said that any involvement of a foreign government in the killing of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil is an unacceptable violation of our sovereignty. Niijar was shot dead by two masked gunmen in June outside a Sikh Gurudwara in Surrey, British Columbia. The Canadian leader said he had informed the leaders of the opposition directly about the allegations as well. In the strongest possible terms, I continue to urge the government of India to cooperate with Canada to get to the bottom of this matter, he said. Trudeau added that the incident is contrary to the fundamental rules by which free, open and democratic societies conduct themselves. He added that he had shared his concerns over the allegations directly with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi last week at the G20 Summit in New Delhi and added that the top priority is that all steps be taken to hold the perpetrators of this murder to account. Canada has declared its deep concerns to the top intelligence and security officials of the Indian government, Trudeau said. Trudeau added that any involvement of a foreign government in the killing of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil is an unacceptable violation of our sovereignty. He added that he hoped the Indian government would cooperate with Canada to get to the bottom of this matter. Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said the head of Indian intelligence in Canada has been expelled from the country as well in a press conference on Monday. The allegations that a representative of a foreign government may have been involved in the killing of a Canadian citizen, here, in Canada, on Canadian soil is not only troubling but it is completely unacceptable, Joly added. Nijjar had previously been a terrorist by the Indian government and accused of leading a militant separatist group. The Khalistan movement, outlawed in India, is a key focus of the Indian government. Several groups associated with the Khalistani movement have been designated as terrorist organizations in the country. However, it has support among some segments of the Sikh community in Canada, Britain and Australia, who have called for the creation of a separate Sikh state. Tensions ratcheted up earlier this year after separatist leader Amritpal Singh escaped from Indian authorities, sparking a massive manhunt. He was caught weeks later in the Punjab after almost a month on the run. The Indian Embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to The Hills request for comment. A statement from Indias Ministry of External Affairs from Sep. 10 said that Modi had expressed strong concerns about continuing anti-India activities of extremist elements in Canada with Trudeau during their meeting at the sidelines of the G20 summit in New Delhi. The statement said there are elements in Canada promoting secessionism and inciting violence against Indian diplomats, damaging diplomatic premises and threatening the Indian community in Canada. Indias Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said in a statement that India rejects the statement made to the Canadian Parliament by Trudeau. Allegations of Government of Indias involvement in any act of violence in Canada are absurd and motivated, Bagchi said. The statement added that India is a democratic polity with a strong commitment to the rule of law. It further said that the unsubstantiated allegations seek to shift the focus from Khalistani terrorists and extremists, who have been provided shelter in Canada and continue to threaten Indias sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Indian governments statement further blasted Canadian politicians for openly expressed sympathy for such elements that remains a matter of deep concern. According to the statement, India rejected any attempts to connect the country to the allegations made by Trudeau. Relations between the two countries have been frosty and India further accused Canada and said that The space given in Canada to a range of illegal activities including murders, human trafficking and organized crime is not new. Updated at 11:10 pm. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Former President Donald Trump s legal team again argued on Sunday that US District Judge Tanya Chutkan should recuse herself from the 2020 election criminal case against him in Washington, DC. Trump has argued this before, and his response Sunday was expected. But the language in Trumps legal argument used Chutkans own words against her, and argued in a particularly bold way that Trumps political successes meant the prosecution of him could be perceived as politically biased, and Chutkan, a harsh judge on January 6 riot cases, should no longer preside. The public must have confidence that President Trumps constitutional rights are being protected by an unbiased judicial officer. No president is a king, but every president is a United States citizen entitled to the protections and rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution, his lawyers wrote in a Sunday night filing. Chutkan used the phrase presidents are not kings, in denying a Trump bid to block House investigators from obtaining his presidential records. First written by Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, now a Supreme Court justice, in a previous Trump lawsuit, the phrase has become well-known as part of Chutkans jurisprudence. Chutkan will ultimately make the decision on whether she should relinquish the case, and while Trumps ask is a long shot based on the law, his filings on the topic could be used in appeals if he is convicted. Recusal requests like these are often fraught, given that a defendant must question the judge who presides over their trial and that the standard to force a recusal is very high. Such attempts are largely unsuccessful. Yet Trump has been undeterred in recent days, attacking the case against him in the federal system and questioning Chutkans fairness in court papers. His court filings have been more direct in questioning the judge even while Justice Department officials argue there is nothing Chutkan has done to show that she was improper in handling other January 6 cases. The core value at issue here is whether the public will accept these proceedings as legitimate; or instead view them as a politically motivated effort by the incumbent administration to take out its most significant political opponent in a presidential campaignthe opponent who, by the way, is not only free, but has a strong lead in the polls, Trumps team wrote. Public confidence is not an insignificant consideration, it is the consideration, they continued. No system of justice can survive if its citizens lose faith in it. At the same time, Trump faces a request from federal prosecutors for Chutkan to further limit his public speaking about the case and possible witnesses because, they say, his attacks on social media have caused harassment. The judge is still weighing that request as well. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Former President Trump is blasting President Biden for his new deal with Tehran that will bring five Americans home after being freed from Iranian prisons. The five Americans released Monday were freed as part of a deal to grant clemency to five Iranians and unfreeze $6 billion in Iranian oil funds. The White House has reiterated that the payment was not a ransom and emphasized that U.S. taxpayer dollars were not part of the deal, but Republicans have still blasted the agreement. I brought 58 HOSTAGES home from many different countries, including North Korea, and I never paid anything. They all understood they MUST LET THESE PEOPLE COME HOME! Toward the end, it got so that countries didnt even start the conversation asking for money, because they knew they would not get it, Trump wrote in Truth Social post. Once you pay, you always pay, & MANY MORE HOSTAGES WILL BE TAKEN. Our grossly incompetent leader, Crooked Joe Biden, gave 6 BILLION DOLLARS for 5 people. Iran gave ZERO for 5. Hes Dumb as a ROCK! he added. Trumps comments echoed concerns from Republicans and even some Democrats who argue it may encourage hostile nations to take more Americans who are traveling abroad. Biden warned Monday that U.S. citizens should not travel to Iran due to kidnapping risks and the threat of arbitrary arrest. All Americans should heed those words and have no expectation that their release can be secured if they do not, Biden said. Trump labeled the deal as absolutely ridiculous, adding that it sets a terrible precedent for the future. [Buckle] up, you are going to see some terrible things start to happen. The 3 years ago highly respected USA has become a laughingstock all over the WORLD. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN. VOTE TRUMP!! he wrote in a separate post. Trump has previously criticized the Biden administration for its negotiations on prisoner releases. He called the deal struck by the White House to release Brittney Griner from Russia crazy and bad. He also said that he turned down a deal to release former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan, whos been detained by Moscow since 2018, in exchange for Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout during his time in the White House. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. FILE - Former President Donald Trump speaks during the Pray Vote Stand Summit, Friday, Sept. 15, 2023, in Washington. Trump repeatedly declined in an interview aired Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023, to answer questions about whether he watched the Capitol riot unfold on television, saying he would tell people later at an appropriate time. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File) Donald Trump is facing new blowback from anti-abortion activists for refusing to commit to national abortion restrictions and for calling Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' signing of a six-week ban on the procedure a terrible mistake. Speaking Sunday on NBC's Meet the Press, Trump repeatedly declined to say whether he would support a federal ban on abortion. He said he could live with the procedure being banned by individual states or nationwide through federal action, though he said "from a legal standpoint, I think its probably better to be handled at the state level. Regarding the bill signed by DeSantis, which bans abortions before many women know they are pregnant, Trump said, I think what he did is a terrible thing and a terrible mistake. So far, the former president has dominated the 2024 field while at times spurning the anti-abortion groups that traditionally have huge influence in Republican primaries. But Trumps direct attack on DeSantis, whom hes long treated as his chief rival, could give the Florida governor new fodder as he tries to regain momentum in his campaign and solidify his second-place standing. Speaking to an Iowa radio station on Monday, DeSantis said he was proud to have signed the Florida legislation, which he called noble and just. I dont know how you can even make the claim that youre somehow pro-life if youre criticizing states for enacting pro-life protections for babies, DeSantis told Radio Iowa. He also criticized Trump's statement that he would work with both sides regarding abortion policy, warning, I think all pro-lifers should know that hes preparing to sell you out. At a campaign stop in Mason City, Iowa, on Monday, Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina mentioned other candidates who oppose a national abortion ban but specifically accused Trump of retreating on the issue. Frankly, those pro-life folks that we really want to stand with us are not standing, he told more than 80 people in a church meeting room. President Trump said he would negotiate with Democrats and walked back away from where I believe we need to be, which is a 15-week limit on the federal level. Following Sunday's interview, the country's largest anti-abortion organization, which backs a national ban on abortions at 15 weeks of pregnancy, quickly released a statement saying anything less restrictive "makes no sense. Were at a moment where we need a human rights advocate, someone who is dedicated to saving the lives of children and serving mothers in need. Every single candidate should be clear on how they plan to do that," said Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America. The Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v. Wade left the decision of whether and how to restrict abortion to the states, creating a patchwork of laws across the country, with most Republican-led states imposing new restrictions and states led by Democrats passing protections. Twenty-five million women of childbearing age now live in states where abortions are more difficult to get than before the ruling. Trump has approached abortion from a political stance, saying that the Supreme Court's decision gave conservatives room to negotiate new restrictions. He has argued Republicans push for abortion restrictions hurt the GOP in the 2022 midterm elections and that GOP candidates need to do a better job of explaining the issue. Banning abortion at six weeks of pregnancy, as Florida enacted earlier this year, is unpopular with the U.S. public, according to an Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research conducted in June. The poll found that 73% of all U.S. adults believe abortion should be allowed up to six weeks of pregnancy, which is when cardiac activity in a fetus may be detected and before women often know they're pregnant. About half of Americans say abortions should be permitted up to 15 weeks. In that poll, 56% of Republicans said abortion should be allowed in their state up to 6 weeks and 29% supported making the procedure legal up to 15 weeks. But in Iowa's first-in-the-nation Republican caucuses, evangelicals and other social conservatives who strongly oppose abortion make up the majority of those who participate and decide the winner. Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds this summer signed an abortion ban similar to Florida's. Reynolds has not endorsed a candidate. Trump has called himself the the most pro-life president in American history" and noted that three of his Supreme Court picks formed part of the conservative majority that overturned Roe. He has so far declined to go along with some of his rivals, including his onetime vice president, Mike Pence, who is pushing for national bans that would take effect relatively early in a pregnancy. Interviews with GOP voters and activists over the past several months suggest a split between people satisfied with Trump's record during his term and others who want Trump to endorse a national abortion ban. Some Republicans in some key states, including those backing his rivals, expressed displeasure after the interview. Among them was South Carolina state Rep. John McCravy, who sponsored the most recent, restrictive abortion measure, which bans the practice in his state after around six weeks of pregnancy. South Carolina will be among the early states to choose a nominee. McCravy described himself in an interview as certainly disappointed." It sounded completely out of step with his staunch support for life while he was president," he said. Kristen Waggoner, CEO of the conservative legal organization Alliance Defending Freedom, also took issue. Laws protecting the unborn are not a terrible mistake. They are the hallmark of a just and moral society, she wrote on X. Governors who protect life should be applauded, not attacked. Kristan Hawkins, president of Students for Life Action, called the interview extremely disappointing and sent a letter to Trump asking him to clarify his statements. The organization, one of the largest anti-abortion groups in the U.S., said it plans a $5 million door-knocking campaign in 2024 but noted its members were discouraged by Trump's comments. "The pro-life vote is up for grabs," Hawkins stated. We need clarity on your vision even as we celebrate your pro-life record. ___ Burnett reported from Chicago. Associated Press writers Thomas Beaumont in Mason City, Iowa, Jonathan J. Cooper in Phoenix, Meg Kinnard in Columbia, South Carolina, and Michelle L. Price in New York contributed to this report. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Donald Trump has denied wrongdoing after a report on Monday said that one of the former president's long-time assistants told federal investigators he repeatedly wrote to-do lists for her on documents from the White House marked classified. The aide, Molly Michael, told investigators that more than once she got requests or tasks from Trump written on the back of notecards that she later recognized as sensitive White House materials, ABC News reported on Monday, citing sources. The notecards had visible classification markings used to brief Trump while he was still in office about phone calls with foreign leaders or other international matters, the news outlet said. Michael became Trump's executive assistant in the White House in 2018 and continued to work for him when he left office. She resigned last year, in the wake of Trump's alleged refusal to comply with federal requests, ABC News said. A Trump spokesperson dismissed the report as "illegal leaks" and denied wrongdoing. Trump, the front-runner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, has been charged along with two aides with illegally storing troves of classified documents at his personal residence and lying to federal investigators who sought to retrieve them. Trump was charged in an indictment in June with criminal counts, including violations of the Espionage Act, conspiracy to obstruct justice, and making false statements to investigators. He has pleaded not guilty. Trump is also under separate indictments in Washington, D.C., and Georgia over his alleged efforts to reverse his 2020 election loss to Democratic President Joe Biden and in New York over a hush-money payment he paid to a porn star. He denies wrongdoing. (Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by Lisa Shumaker) A federal judge was skeptical Monday of former Trump-era Justice Department official Jeffrey Clarks efforts to move his Georgia election subversion case to federal court. The case stems from Clarks efforts to use his senior role at the Justice Department to help former President Donald Trump overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election despite the objections of his bosses. Clark wasnt present at the hearing, an absence that became especially notable after US District Judge Steve Jones said he would not accept a sworn statement from Clark as evidence in the case. The hearing ended after about three hours with no ruling from the judge, who seemed visibly frustrated and annoyed at times. At one point, his probing questions directed at one of Clarks attorneys led Trump attorney Steve Sadow, who was in the courtroom, to whisper, This is not good. Jones said he would make a decision on the matter as soon as he could but didnt give a timeframe for his ruling. Earlier this month, Jones rejected a similar request to transfer the case from another co-defendant: Trump White House chief of staff Mark Meadows . Clark and some other defendants want to move their cases to federal court and say they were acting on behalf of the federal government after the election, thus they should be able to have their state charges tried before a federal judge. They could also potentially have somewhat friendlier trial settings or get the charges dropped entirely by invoking immunity protections afforded to federal officials. At Mondays hearing, Clark attorney Harry MacDougald argued that not even an iota of (Clarks) actions would be possible if he wasnt a federal official. This included attending an Oval Office meeting and a classified intelligence briefing about election security, as well as high-level discussions with Justice Department officials. And even if his official job description didnt include most election litigation, those matters were in his lane because the president put it in his lane, MacDougald said, referring to Trump seeking out Clark in late 2020 to discuss the election. Clarks bid differs from Meadows and is a tossup, according to several former Justice Department officials, given that he was advocating within the Justice Department for the agency to take action to undermine public trust in the election. However, Clarks superiors in the department opposed him, and his direct communication with Trump after the election wasnt authorized as part of his job. Trump will also likely seek to move his case to federal court, but he hasnt filed any motions yet. Post-election turmoil inside DOJ Clark is charged with violating Georgias racketeering law, known as RICO, and attempting to make false statements. He has pleaded not guilty. Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, a Democrat, opposes Clarks bid to move his case. Attorneys from her office argued during Mondays hearing that even if Trump told Clark to get involved in 2020 election matters, his actions still would not have been within the scope of his federal duties. After Trump lost the 2020 election, Clark started embracing far-fetched conspiracy theories about an international scheme to rig voting machines against Republicans, according to two congressional reports and past CNN reporting. He also violated Justice Department policy by speaking directly with Trump on several occasions. As part of these conversations, Trump considered installing Clark as acting attorney general so he could send a letter to the state officials falsely claiming the Justice Department found widespread irregularities in the 2020 election. Trump backed away from the plan after top Justice Department officials threatened to resign in protest. These actions are part of Trumps federal election subversion charges, in which Clark is an unindicted co-conspirator. Trump has pleaded not guilty in both cases. During Mondays hearing, MacDougald said the letter never left the office and argued that Clark was not going rogue when he drafted it because, he said, it was part of Clarks job. You cannot get into the Oval Office for a meeting with the president and top Justice Department officials unless you are acting in connection with a federal position, MacDougald said. Jones asked some probing questions during the hearing, at one point challenging MacDougald about the fact that his DOJ bosses told him that his 2020 election fraud claims werent true, but he still included the claims in his draft letter to Georgia officials. MacDougald argued at one point that the draft letter Clark wanted to have sent to officials in key states including Georgia was akin to a dissenting opinion inside any federal agency, including a courts chambers. Compared to his DOJ colleagues, Clark had a different opinion on the weight and sufficiency of the evidence of fraud, he said. He told the judge if this case against Clark isnt moved to federal court, it could allow states to issue felony arrest warrants even for people who work for the judge and disagree with him. You guys hear that? Jones joked in response, pointing to his clerks inside the courtroom. MacDougald ended his arguments Monday with a harsher position toward Trump digging into the position that Clark couldnt have acted outside of his office at the department because the then-president authorized Clarks actions after the election toward Georgia. The DOJ is not an independent fourth branch of government, MacDougald said. But prosecutors pushed back. Theres no federal authority here to protect, Donald Wakeford argued for the state of Georgia. There has to be some basis in reality that Clarks draft letter to Georgia officials about the states presidential election was part of his job, Wakeford said, adding that Clark was told by his superiors what he was saying wasnt true, wasnt part of his job and wasnt part of anyones job at DOJ. Trump DOJ official testifies for Willis Former Justice Department official Jody Hunt testified at the hearing and bolstered Willis case by saying that the person in Clarks role wouldnt have been involved in investigating election fraud. Hunt was head of the DOJs Civil Division under Trump before Clark took over the role in an acting capacity in 2020. In my experience it is not the role of the Civil Division to engage in any affirmative matters related to elections or election irregularities, Hunt testified. Matters related to election fraud would be handled by the Criminal Division or the Civil Rights Division, Hunt said. This undercuts Clarks argument that he was doing his job as acting head of the Civil Division by getting involved in the 2020 election. It would not fall within the responsibility of the Civil Division to handle election-related enforcement matters, Hunt said. Hunt was an influential figure in the Trump administration and was chief of staff to then- Attorney General Jeff Sessions. He later represented a key January 6, 2021, witness who provided damning testimony against Trump. Former attorney general backs Clark At his own hearing last month, Meadows took the stand to testify in an unexpected, high-risk attempt to expand the courts view of his role as chief of staff. Clarks attorney didnt respond to a request for comment, though Clark submitted a sworn statement to the court about his service at the Justice Department, which the judge later rejected. In the statement, Clark wrote he never participated in campaign events for Trumps reelection, never acted in his personal capacity and never took knowingly false positions during his time at the Justice Department. Former Attorney General Ed Meese, who served in the Reagan administration, also sent a sworn statement to the court in advance of the hearing, arguing on Clarks behalf, The prosecution of the President and an [assistant Attorney General] is a major affront to federal supremacy never before seen in the history of our country, according to a court filing Sunday. If the premise of this prosecution were to be accepted, then state law enforcement officials could arrest local U.S. Attorneys and their Assistants while they were deliberating over whether and/or how to approach a possible prosecution of state or local officials, Meese added. But Jones said on Monday that he will block Meeses affidavit from being submitted. With all due respect to the former attorney general, the judge said, some of Meeses submission gives opinions of things and thus wont be included in the official record, and wont be considered when he makes his ruling in the removal matter. This is one of two federal hearings this week about moving the Georgia case out of state court. Three fake electors facing charges have a hearing set for Wednesday on the same question. This story has been updated with additional developments. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Donald Trump decided to mark the Jewish New Year by sharing an antisemitic message stating that liberal Jews voted to destroy America and Israel by supporting President Joe Biden. The former president shared an image wishing Jewish Americans a happy new year on Rosh Hashanah on Truth Social on Sunday. Just a quick reminder for liberal Jews who voted to destroy America & Israel because you believed in false narratives! the image said. Lets hope you learned from your mistake & make better choices moving forward! Happy New Year! The image posted by Mr Trump also included a flyer from JEXIT, a group based in Florida working to push the message to Jewish Americans that the Democratic Party has abandoned them and Israel, The Times of Israel has reported. Wake Up Sheep. What Natzi /Anti Semite ever did this for the Jewish people or Israel? the flyer states. It goes on to list Mr Trumps measures to move the US embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem which is Israel's true capital. No other president had the b**** to do it. Trump recognizes Israels sovereignty over the Golan Heights, it adds. Trump recognizes Israel's sovereignty over settlements in Judea & Samaria. Trump signs an executive order for Judaism to be a nationality in addition to a religion so it would fall under the category Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the JEXIT sheet said. That act prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color and national origin in programs receiving federal financial assistance. Institutions that violate Title VI may lose their federal funding. This means that BDS will have a hard time harassing Jewish students on college campuses. May 2020 - Trump Signs the 'Never Again' Education bill into law which allocates millions of dollars to expand Holocaust awareness and create websites with curriculum tools for teachers nationwide! the flyer states. Clearly, one of the greatest Anti Semites of our time! it concludes with apparent sarcasm. Mr Trump has long employed the antisemitic trope that Jewish Americans have dual loyalty to Israel and he has spoken to and about Jewish Americans as if Israel is their country and not the US. Mr Trump hosted a Hanukkah celebration at the White House in 2018, saying that then-Vice President Mike Pence and Second Lady Karen Pence would go to Israel and they love your country. They love your country. And they love this country, according to The Times of Israel. In a call with American Jewish leaders after Rosh Hashanah in 2020, Mr Trump said: We really appreciate you, we love your country also, the Jewish Telegraphic agency noted. At a Republican Jewish Coalition event in 2019, Mr Trump referred to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as your prime minister. According to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), the number of antisemitic incidents increased by 36 per cent between 2021 and 2022 going from 2,717 to 3,697 incidents. The ADL has said that its the highest number on record since ADL began tracking antisemitic incidents in 1979. This is the third time in the past five years that the year-end total has been the highest number ever recorded, they added. Department of Justice prosecutors on the federal level have asked a judge in charge of a case looking into Mr Trumps supposed efforts to change the results of the 2020 election to help restrict his attacks, which the former president often posts on Truth Social. In a filing in US District Court on 15 September, the officials claim that after a grand jury indicted Mr Trump in the case, he has repeatedly and widely disseminated public statements targeting the residents of Washington, DC, members of the court, prosecutors, and possible witnesses. The attacks could undermine the integrity of these proceedings and prejudice the jury pool, the prosecution said, asking Judge Tanya Chutkan to impose a narrowly tailored order that limits certain prejudicial extrajudicial statements from the former president. The defendant has an established practice of issuing inflammatory public statements targeted at individuals or institutions that present an obstacle or challenge to him, prosecutors added. The attacks have engendered widespread mistrust in the administration of the election, and the individuals whom he targeted were subject to threats and harassment, they said. The prosecution argues that Mr Trump is aware that when he publicly attacks individuals and institutions, he inspires others to perpetrate threats and harassment against his targets. He launches the attacks precisely because he knows that in doing so, he is able to roil the public and marshal and prompt his supporters, the prosecutors added. The criminal indictment looking at Mr Trumps and his associates attempts to overturn the 2020 election is one of four criminal cases against Mr Trump launched this year. ATHENS, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Five members of a Greek humanitarian mission to Libya were killed and 10 others injured in a car accident, Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias said here on Monday, expressing condolences and declaring a three-day period of mourning in the Armed Forces. The incident occurred on Sunday shortly after the 19-member team arrived in Benghazi. A bus transporting them from Benghazi to the city of Derna to assist in the wake of devastating floods collided with another vehicle, defense ministry officials said. Three of the dead were officers of the Hellenic Armed Forces and two were translators from the Greek foreign ministry, Dendias said. Their bodies, as well as the rest of the members of the mission, were repatriated on Monday on two Hellenic Air Force transport planes, Greek national broadcaster ERT reported. "The entire nation is mourning. My thoughts are with the victims' families and the 10 injured. The state will stand by their side," said Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. A federal judge appeared inclined on Monday to reject the former Trump justice department official Jeffrey Clark s effort to transfer from state to federal court his criminal case for conspiring to overturn the 2020 election in Georgia, striking his written testimony from consideration. Related: Why is Trump desperate to move the Georgia trial to federal court? The way that the hearing played out for Clark could dictate how future efforts by Donald Trump or his other co-defendants to remove their cases to federal court could play out, given how Clarks lawyer at times put blame on the former president. The US district judge Steve Jones did not make a formal ruling from the bench at the court hearing in Atlanta but left Clark, the former assistant attorney general for the civil division, without the key evidence he had wanted to submit after he failed to appear in person. That means the judge will make a decision on whether Clark can remove his racketeering charges, brought by the Fulton county district attorneys office last month, based on the oral arguments by Clarks lawyer and parts of a supporting affidavit from the former attorney general Edwin Meese. The judges refusal to consider Clarks own written testimony suggests he faces an uphill struggle, given the burden rests on Clark to prove that he was acting within the scope of his official duties as a justice department official in order to successfully change venue to federal court. At issue for Clark is a letter he drafted in 2020that said the department was investigating supposed irregularities in the 2election in the state of Georgia even though it had already concluded otherwise as part of what prosecutors say was an effort to overturn Trumps defeat. Clarks lawyer, Harry MacDougal, argued that Clark was acting within the scope of his official duties because Trump had asked him to look into the matter, and that Fulton county did not have jurisdiction to prosecute him for deliberative functions he undertook inside the justice department. In particular, Clarks lawyer pointed to an Oval Office meeting on 3 January 2021 involving Trump, Clark and other top lawyers from the department and the White House. Trump asked Clark for his opinion, which ratified that he was within the scope of his official duties, he argued. Whether that line of reasoning succeeds with the judge is uncertain, especially given Clark has no evidence to support those claims after Jones declined to take Clarks affidavit attesting to those events into consideration. The trouble for Clark could be compounded because election-related litigation is not in the purview of the civil division, but with the civil rights division or the criminal division. Even then, the justice department has no role in election management, which is run by the states. Even if Trump, as president, had instructed Clark to use the force of the justice department to investigate election fraud claims, the fact that he was heading the civil division meant he would have been acting outside his lane, Fulton county prosecutors argued. The Fulton county prosecutors also had Clarks predecessor as the head of the civil division, Jody Hunt, confirm on the stand that the only time that the civil division does litigation is to either protect government officials from lawsuits or protecting the interests of the United States. The judge did not articulate precisely why he would not accept Clarks affidavit, but a declaration alone with no appearance on the stand is widely regarded as insufficient to meet evidentiary burdens because Clark would not be subject to cross-examination. The Guardian has previously reported that Trump was weighing whether to file for removal based on how his former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows and others fared in their efforts before finalizing his own. Meadows is appealing after he had his motion rejected last week. Trump can wait until 30 days after his arraignment or in this case, his arraignment waiver and not-guilty plea filed on 31 August to decide whether to seek removal. Trumps lawyer Steve Sadow watched the oral arguments from the gallery, as did lawyers for some of the so-called fake electors who are scheduled to have their evidentiary hearings to transfer to federal court take place on Wednesday. Trump refuses to say if he watched Jan. 6 attack unfold at Capitol Former President Trump repeatedly refused to say when pressed in an interview whether he watched the attack on the Capitol unfold on television. In the interview that aired Sunday on NBCs Meet the Press with Kristen Welker , Trump repeatedly declined to say whether he watched coverage of the attack from the White House and would not answer questions about what phone calls he made that day. Im not going to tell you. Ill tell people later at an appropriate time, Trump said when asked whether he was in the dining room that afternoon watching the attack unfold on television, which several accounts from within the White House have alleged. He also defended the statements he taped from within the Oval Office that day as beautiful and referred to his tweets to tell people to go home. Several reports, however, have revealed Trump made those statements begrudgingly, and multiple people were lobbying Trump and those close to him to get the former president to issue a statement. Why would I tell you that? Trump asked when questioned on whom he called that day. And on whether he called military or law enforcement officials on the day of the attack, Trump said, Im not going to tell you anything. He also repeated his unsubstantiated claims that then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) had denied his earlier request to protect the Capitol with more troops, prompting Welker to ask why he didnt send in help at that moment. Frankly, just so you understand, I assumed that she took care of it, Trump replied, referring to Pelosi. Trump, the runaway front-runner in the 2024 presidential GOP primary, has been indicted in four cases, two of which relate to his efforts to stay in power after the 2020 election. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. BEDFORD, N.H. As summer turns to autumn and former President Donald Trump continues to dominate the 2024 Republican presidential race despite his coup attempt and four criminal indictments, there remains one glimmer of hope for his rivals: the 11-percentage point gap. That is the difference between Trumps polling lead nationally over his closest rival, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, and the average of his leads in Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina, three of the four early voting states. Lots of people are still undecided, said Marc Short, who was former Vice President Mike Pences chief of staff and is now advising his presidential campaign. He added that while Trump has large leads in polls, Iowa voters do not seem solidly committed to him particularly after recent Trumps comments disparaging anti-abortion activists. Thats what we see when were canvassing in the neighborhoods. While Trump has the support of 57% of GOP voters nationally, that figure is only 48% in South Carolina, 46% in Iowa and 44% in New Hampshire. (Nevada, the fourth early state, has had no recent public polling, and the pro-Trump state party is encouraging candidates and GOP voters to shun the state-run Feb. 6 primary and participate in party caucuses two days later instead.) Trump campaign officials did not respond to HuffPost queries asking why he is not doing as well in the early states as nationally. But in a sign they recognize the problem, they have scheduled a handful of Iowa events in the coming weeks after a summer of little campaigning at all. Under the theory that anti-Trump Republicans are pinning their hopes on, that gap between national and early state numbers proves that in states were other candidates are actually conducting a campaign, a majority of Republican voters are open to a non-Trump candidate. Republican presidential candidate former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie addresses a gathering during a campaign event at V.F.W. Post 1631, Monday, July 24, 2023, in Concord, N.H. Republican presidential candidate former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie addresses a gathering during a campaign event at V.F.W. Post 1631, Monday, July 24, 2023, in Concord, N.H. And because Trump is effectively the incumbent in the Republican field, those under-50% numbers actually show considerable weakness, not the insurmountable strength that Trump and his allies like to project, the anti-Trumpers argue. I think New Hampshire is going to be a very busy place in the coming months, and I think theres a lot of opportunity for movement, said Maura Weston, a former New Hampshire Republican Party official. In this scenario, should Trump wind up losing Iowa, the myth of his inevitability will be shattered, making a loss in New Hampshire the following week more likely. And if he loses New Hampshire, the theory goes, it becomes a wide-open race going forward which is precisely the way the candidate who has made attacking Trump the focus of his campaign has been presenting his case in his New Hampshire-centric effort. Just remember, the future of this country starts with you. Here, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie told a couple of dozen voters during a visit to the Mountain Base Brewery in Goffstown last week. If Donald Trump wins here, he will be our nominee. Everything that happens after that is going to be on our party and on our country. Americas counting on you. Im counting on you, too. Normalizing Trumps Coup Just after Jan. 6, 2021, it seemed certain that Trump had ended his political career with his incitement of a violent attack on the Capitol that injured 140 police officers and led to the deaths of five in his last-ditch attempt to remain in power despite having lost the 2020 election. On the floors of their respective chambers, the two Republican leaders both blamed Trump for the mayhem. But within weeks, as Republican lawmakers returned to their districts and found that their voters were angry at them for not supporting Trump, GOP leaders in both Congress and the states began toning down their criticism or reversing course entirely. Senate GOP leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.) not only voted against impeaching Trump a Senate conviction would have had the effect of banning Trump from federal office for life but asked other Republicans to do the same. Kevin McCarthy, at the time the House minority leader, actually made a pilgrimage to Trumps country club home in South Florida to make amends with him exactly three weeks after his mob had invaded McCarthys office in the Capitol. That refusal to criticize Trump for his coup attempt has largely continued within the GOP presidential field. Biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy a week after Jan. 6 called Trumps behavior downright abhorrent, but has now become Trumps biggest cheerleader among the 2024 contenders and has promised to pardon Trump on his first day in office. Nikki Haley, a former South Carolina governor who served as Trumps United Nations ambassador, went from telling fellow Republicans the day after Jan. 6 that Trumps actions since Election Day will be judged harshly by history to declaring we need him in the Republican Party in a span of nine months. Now, running against Trump, she calls him the most disliked politician in all of America but fails to mention the role Jan. 6 plays in that unpopularity. And when a moderator at last months Republican debate asked how many of the eight hopefuls on stage would still support Trump as the nominee even if by that time he had been convicted of a felony, she was among six to raise their hands. For former New Hampshire Republican party chair Jennifer Horn, Haley is the perfect illustration of the non-Trump fields inability or unwillingness to challenge the man who, despite everything, remains the de facto incumbent in the Republican primary. When she raised her hand on stage, Horn said, Haley effectively eliminated any reason for her supporters to choose her over Trump. No matter how good Nikki Haley is, if shes going to support him no matter what, shes giving permission to even her own voters to do the same, Horn said. The GOPs De Facto Incumbent Fergus Cullen, another former chair of the New Hampshire party, said that Republican leaders missed their window to put Trump behind them by not universally condemning him and his actions immediately after Jan. 6. That opportunity is now gone, he said, and he remains unconvinced that someone can defeat him in the primaries. Voters are always open to looking at other choices, but fundamentally, theyre OK with Trump, he said. Do you want your potato mashed or baked? Or French fries? Voters will pause to consider the options, but theyll go with the usual most of the time. Others, like former Republican National Committee member from New Hampshire Steve Duprey, are more sanguine about the odds of beating Trump, pointing to New Hampshires reputation for quirkiness and the ability of registered independents to vote in either Democratic or Republican primaries. Duprey said that while Trump may be currently favored by New Hampshires registered Republicans, the independents are done with him and will make up a third or more of the vote in January. Watch the independents, he said. Matt Mayberry, another former state party official who now hosts candidate meet-and-greet events for the state home builders association, said the primary is only getting started and several of the non-Trump candidates are well positioned. I think theres a possibility that anyone can win or lose New Hampshire, he said. I liked some of Trumps policies, but hes just a horrendous person. You wouldnt buy a car from someone who you dont like, even if its a good price.New Hampshire voter Greg Lynch For those non-Trump candidates, there is clearly a significant percentage of voters, including former Trump supporters, who are ready to get behind someone without Trumps baggage. I think if he is the candidate again, I think he will be defeated again,said Marc Colcumbe, a 63-year-old mechanical contractor who voted for Trump in both 2016 and 2020. But I wont vote for him a third time. Greg Lynch, who is 56 and installs building insulation, said he, too, is a never-again Trump voter. I liked some of Trumps policies, but hes just a horrendous person, he said. You wouldnt buy a car from someone who you dont like, even if its a good price. While much of the field has focused their time on Iowa, hoping to either win or place in the caucuses, Christie is instead putting his time and money into New Hampshire in echoes of the late Sen. John McCains 2000 campaign against George W. Bush in which he conducted 114 campaign town halls in the state. At a Rye gathering sponsored by former Massachusetts Sen. Scott Brown, Christie said that he did not expect to lead Trump in any poll prior to the primary just as McCain did not until beating Bush on election night by 18 points. The following night at a campaign town hall in Bedford that drew several hundred, Christie repeated his pledge to work the state until primary day four months from now. I will be here until the last dog dies, he said, wrapping up two hours in a hot elementary school gym. I will be here until the last vote is counted. Former President Donald Trump marked the start of the Jewish High Holy Days with a fiery missive on Sunday reminding his followers that liberal Jews voted to destroy America & Israel through their support of Joe Biden . Trump took to his Truth Social platform to wish Jewish Americans a happy new year on Rosh Hashanah. Just a quick reminder for liberal Jews who voted to destroy America & Israel because you believed in false narratives!, the former president wrote on the social network. Lets hope you learned from your mistake & make better choices moving forward! Happy New Year! Trump concluded. The post included a pro-Trump flyer from an anti-Democratic lobbying group that ironically called the former president one of the greatest Anti Semites of our time. The message points to Trumps effort to move the American embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, a controversial shift in U.S. policy at the time, as well as other pro-Israel policies. The flyer was made by JEXIT, a Florida-based group that hopes to educate Jewish Americans that the Democratic Party has abandoned them and Israel, according to The Times of Israel. Trump has complained about levels of political support from Jewish Americans before. Last year, he told Jewish voters to get their act together and said no president had done more for Israel than himself. Our wonderful Evangelicals are far more appreciative of this than the people of the Jewish faith, especially those living in the U.S., he wrote in October. Related... Former President Trump says he saved Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) from being convicted in his Texas impeachment trial through his intervention on the social media platform, Truth Social. Yes, it is true that my intervention through TRUTH SOCIAL saved Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton from going down at the hands of Democrats and some Republicans, headed by PAUL RINO (Ryan), Karl Rove, and others, almost all of whom came back to reason when confronted with the facts, Trump wrote Monday, in reference to former Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) and veteran Republican strategist Karl Rove. Neither was directly involved in Paxtons impeachment trial, though Rove penned an op-ed in The Wall Street Journal last month predicting the end for the attorney general. A jury of state senators voted to acquit Paxton on all 16 articles of impeachment over the weekend, allowing him to immediately return to office. Paxton was temporarily suspended from his role after the House impeached him in May. Ken Paxton has been a great A.G. and now he can go back to work for the wonderful people of Texas, Trump said. It was my honor to have helped correct this injustice. Trump, a longtime ally of Paxton, did not detail exactly how he apparently helped Paxton. Over the weekend, reports surfaced that Trump allies embarked on a secret campaign to pressure Texas senators to acquit Paxton, though Trump did not reference this in his post. Trump backed Paxton throughout his trial, often using Truth Social to rail against Texas state leaders seeking to impeach him. Last week, Trump argued RINOS Republicans in the name only were attempting to undo Paxtons reelection last fall. Paxton faced allegations including bribery, abuse of power and retaliation against whistleblowers. The charges were centered on the attorney generals dealings with friend and political donor Nate Paul, an Austin real estate investor. No more than 14 state senators voted to convict on any of the 16 articles considered, with only two of 19 Republican senators Kelly Hancock and Robert Nichols joining Democrats to convict on some of the counts. The trial followed a multi-year FBI investigation into Paxton after multiple senior aides accused the embattled attorney general of using his office to help Paul, who was being investigated for fraud. Paxton was accused of interfering in litigation for his friends benefit and giving him access to nonpublic information, while Paul allegedly helped pay for a renovation at Paxtons home. Paul also employed a woman Paxton was allegedly having an affair with. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Former President Trump sounds cognitively impaired when he speaks, MSNBC pundit Joe Scarborough said Monday. Hes talking about Joe Biden being cognitively impaired, he looks cognitively impaired, Scarborough said on his morning talk program. I dont know that either of them are cognitively impaired. They get tired sometimes. The host was reacting to comments Trump made during a speech Friday in Washington. Trump, during the speech, blasted President Biden over his age, saying, we have a man who is totally corrupt and the worst president in the history of our country, who is cognitively impaired, in no condition to lead, and is now in charge of dealing with Russia and possible nuclear war. Scarborough scoffed at Trumps assertion. Donald Trump thinks were about to start World War II; Joe Biden thinks the Ukraine is Iraq; I mean, you know, you get tired, you get confused. It happens, the host said. It happens to both sides. But, you know, the question is are they going to keep talking about Joe Biden being cognitively impaired when Donald Trump sounds cognitively impaired every time he talks Trump and Biden would be the two oldest candidates to ever face off in a presidential election if they both win their parties nomination next year. Some Democrats and defenders of the White House have suggested a double standard exists on the question of age and competence between Biden and Trump. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Since his impeachment acquittal Saturday, Attorney General Ken Paxton has been active in thanking those he thinks helped return him to his post as the top law enforcement officer in Texas. Through a stream of congratulatory messages on X, the social media site formerly known as Twitter, Paxton has hinted that he plans to reclaim his mantle as a leading opposition figure to Democratic President Joe Biden. He also has been agreeing with those who have advocated in the trial's aftermath for more conservative Republicans to unseat members of the party who voted for the impeachment to proceed from the House to a trial in the Senate. Former President Donald Trump , one of Paxton's biggest allies, who became increasingly vocal as the impeachment trial approached a final verdict, said Monday that he takes credit for the Texas Senate's decision to acquit Paxton of 16 impeachment charges. Four additional articles were not heard in the proceeding. "Yes, it is true that my intervention through TRUTH SOCIAL saved Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton from going down at the hands of Democrats and some Republicans," Trump posted Monday on the social media site. Attorney General Ken Paxton, middle, with attorneys Tony Buzbee, left, and Mitch Little on Friday, has been thanking those who helped him return to his job. Some Capitol observers made the argument after Trump's post that by taking credit for the acquittal, Trump is basically accusing Republican senators of violating their oath to consider only the evidence presented during the trial. "Ken has been a great A.G., and now he can go back to work for the wonderful people of Texas. It was my honor to have helped correct his injustice!" Trump wrote. Paxton, an ardent supporter of Trump since his presidency, has followed suit in claiming that left-leaning Republicans, with the help of Democrats, pushed forward an impeachment proceeding that lacked evidence and merit, a claim echoed by the trial's presiding officer, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who said in his closing remarks Saturday that the House "forced" the vote on the Senate. President Donald Trump is greeted by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, left, and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in 2019. Trump is taking credit for Paxton's acquittal. "The sham impeachment coordinated by the Biden Administration with liberal House Speaker Dade Phelan and his kangaroo court has cost taxpayers millions of dollars, disrupted the work of the Office of Attorney General and left a dark and permanent stain on the Texas House," Paxton said in a statement after his acquittal Saturday. Making a similar assessment about the state's expenditure for the proceeding, Patrick said Saturday that he would call for a full audit of the cost accumulated during the trial. On Monday, he officially made that request to determine "the absolute total cost to the state" for conducting the trial in a letter requesting an audit by State Auditor Lisa Collier. Phelan, a Beaumont Republican, in his own statement Saturday pushed back on the claim that the impeachment was a politically driven, high-cost proceeding, arguing that House impeachment managers presented enough "damning evidence" to warrant an impeachment as he condemned Patrick for professing his desired outcome in the closing moments of the two-week trial. More: Paxton acquittal deepens split between Texas House, Senate ahead of school voucher session "Moreover, I find it deeply concerning that after weeks of claiming he would preside over this trial in an impartial and honest manner, Lt. Gov. Patrick would conclude by confessing his bias and placing his contempt for the people's House on full display," Phelan said. "To be clear, Patrick attacked the House for standing up against corruption." Over the course of the two week Senate trial, House managers presented that evidence, making the case that Paxton's actions tied to assisting Nate Paul, an Austin real estate developer and Paxton campaign donor, avoid foreclosures on some of his properties, hiring an outside attorney to investigate law enforcement agencies conducting a probe into Paul's business and a home remodel allegedly funded by Paul showcased why Paxton is unfit for office. Paxton's defense team, led by attorneys Tony Buzbee and Dan Cogdell, argued that Paxton was the victim of "rogue employees" who did not like the directives from their boss. They argued the legitimacy of the connection between Paul and the remodel of Paxton's Tarrytown home, saying the renovation never actually took place. Sen. Angela Paxton hugs Tony Buzbee, attorney for her husband, Attorney General Ken Paxton, after the acquittal Saturday. They also pushed back on the hypocrisy of bringing up Paxton's extramarital affair, which Buzbee chalked up to "much ado about nothing." The Senate voted with Paxton's team on every article, with each vote failing to reach the 21-vote threshold to convict. No charge gained more than 14 votes in favor of a conviction. Now Republicans in the House are facing harsh blowback in conservative circles for going after Paxton, with a cacophony of calls for House impeachment managers and those who voted to impeach the attorney general be voted out in next year's primary elections. More: How each Texas Senator voted in Ken Paxton's impeachment trial As a result of that rhetoric, an existing rift between Phelan and Patrick's chambers has widened, with implications for the whole of the Republican Party of Texas. "There are Republicans who will claim 'no, there's not a civil war, said Jon Taylor, chair of the department of political science and a professor at the University of Texas at San Antonio. "There is most assuredly a civil war brewing." And while nearly all Senate Republicans sided with Paxton over the course of 16 separate acquittal votes, Robert Nichols, R-Jacksonville, and Kelly Hancock, R-North Richland Hills, face similar intraparty anger for voting to convict Paxton on nearly every charge. While Nichols had remained quiet since the Senate's vote Saturday, he released a statement Monday saying that the testimony from the whistleblowers who approached the FBI impacted his votes. "Their testimony, combined with the totality of all the other evidence presented by the House Board of Managers, proved to me beyond a reasonable doubt that the Attorney General's actions violated Texas law and his oath of office," Nichols said. Meanwhile, Hancock responded in frustration on X to a claim that he sought to unseat Paxton after a legislative feud during their time together in the Texas House in the mid-2000s. Sen. Kelly Hancock holds a vote during the impeachment trial Saturday. "Ken and I would grab lunch years after that and had a good relationship. I voted based on the testimony and evidence available to me," Hancock said Sunday. "With much prayer and wisdom from God. In the end, he gave me a peace I cant explain." Hancock and Nichols will not face reelection until 2026, and by then, Taylor said, a number of other charges Paxton faces could have come to bear, making the impeachment trial a distant memory. "Three years is a lifetime in politics," Taylor said. "Who's going to remember the Paxton impeachment, particularly if Ken Paxton is convicted on either state charges or future federal charges and is out of office anyway?" Paxton, who is charged in a state securities case with defrauding investors in a Dallas-area tech startup, also faces a federal investigation after federal prosecutors seated a grand jury in San Antonio in August. Paxton also faces a complaint from the State Bar of Texas seeking to revoke his law license, although the state constitution does not require an attorney general to be a licensed lawyer. "He's not out of the woods by any stretch of the imagination," Taylor said. "And people think somehow, 'Oh, he's 10 feet tall and bulletproof.' He is far from that right now." This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Donald Trump wants credit for Texas AG Paxton impeachment acquittal Donald Trump marked Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year, by threatening American Jews. Trump shared a graphic on Truth Social Sunday night detailing everything that he did supposedly in support of Jewish people. This included moving the U.S. Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv and recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights and settlements in the West Bank. All of these moves were highly controversial and widely decried when Trump announced them. Just a quick reminder for liberal Jews who voted to destroy America & Israel because you believed false narratives! the image was captioned. Lets hope you learned from your mistake & make better choices moving forward! Happy New Year! Seven in 10 American Jews identify with or lean toward the Democratic Party, according to polling from the Pew Research Center. For someone who says he is incredibly pro-Israel, Trump has a habit of threatening Jewish people in his own country. In October, he accused American Jews of failing to praise his Israel policies enough. No President has done more for Israel than I have. Somewhat surprisingly, however, our wonderful Evangelicals are far more appreciative of this than the people of the Jewish faith, especially those living in the U.S., he wrote on Truth Social. U.S. Jews have to get their act together and appreciate what they have in IsraelBefore it is too late! Then, just two months later, he criticized Jewish leaders for their lack of loyalty toward him, despite the fact that he had just had dinner with neo-Nazis Nick Fuentes and Kanye West. Jewish Leaders forgot that I was the best, by far, President for Israel, Trump wrote on Truth Social. They should be ashamed of themselves. This lack of loyalty to their greatest friends and allies is why large numbers in Congress, and so many others, have stopped giving support to Israel. In the nearly a year since that now-infamous dinner, Trump has yet to condemn Fuentes or West for their open embrace of Nazi beliefs, admiration of Hitler, and Holocaust denialism. Gov. Ron DeSantis had to know it was risky to try to keep former President Donald Trump off the Florida ballot by using a loyalty pledge. Loyalty in politics? Please. Loyalty in the Republican Party of today? Hilarious. So when the strategy backfired on the governor during a Republican showdown in Orlando on Sept. 15, perhaps the only person who was surprised was DeSantis. This goes back to last May, when the state party decided that, in order to get onto the March 19 Florida primary ballot in 2024, GOP presidential candidates would have to pledge to support the eventual nominee, no matter who it is. DeSantis backed the idea. Trump, predictably, balked not just at the Florida oath but also one required by the Republican National Committee to participate in GOP debates. Trump did not participate in the first GOP debate in August. During the Orlando meeting which was preceded by intense lobbying state GOP leaders were forced to choose. They chose Trump, voting to rescind the loyalty pledge requirement. In a state where both candidates reside, it was a triumph for Trump and a stinging loss for DeSantis. Sobering message But thats the trouble with using brute political force to keep your party in lockstep with you. Theyll only obey as long as they fear you more than the next guy. Right now, they apparently fear Trump more. Plus, they think hes going to win the nomination. Theyre voting for their own interests, as usual. They see whos leading in the polls, the same as the rest of us, and they want to back a winner. With this loss in Orlando, no matter how symbolic, the governors five-year grip on the state party seems to be weakening. Its no wonder. A Fox News poll last week put Trump at 60% of GOP support nationally. DeSantis had just 13%, two points ahead of businessman Vivek Ramaswamy. Thats a 47-point lead for Trump over DeSantis. Those numbers are hard to ignore. The loyalty pledge was mostly for show, of course. Former state GOP chair Joe Gruters, who supports Trump, said candidates shouldnt have to endorse someone even if they dont like them. Hes the one who called for the vote to scrap the pledge. It passed, he told the Orlando Sentinel, with just two or three votes in opposition out of 39 cast by voice vote. Campaign spin DeSantis campaign spokesman Bryan Griffin, meanwhile, called out the party for lack of unity, and said that anyone who wants to run should be willing to back the eventual nominee in the fight to defeat President Joe Biden in 2024. Those were the stated reasons, but they werent real. This was about loyalty, all right, but not about an oath or who gets on the ballot. (Was there ever any doubt that Trump would find a way to get on the Florida ballot?) It was about who stands with Trump and who stands with Floridas governor. For DeSantis, who has long gotten almost everything he wanted as this states iron-fisted governor, harsh reality finally has intruded. In the end, though, neither candidate has even an ounce of credibility on the subject of loyalty. DeSantis has used his veto pen and his office as a weapon, even against his own party. Hes humiliated some Republican lawmakers by axing their projects from the budget without so much as a word to them. One of those lawmakers who saw millions of dollars in his hometown projects cut by the governor this year was fellow Republican Gruters. Trump is even worse, of course. He threw his own vice president to the wolves in the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 as they chanted, Hang Mike Pence and he betrayed the people of the United States and democracy as a whole. Loyalty is in his vocabulary only as it pertains to himself. With all this talk of loyalty in Republican circles, we have one question: What about loyalty to voters? Sadly, we already know the answer. Click here to send the letter. BEIJING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- As part of ongoing efforts to maintain bilateral communication and stabilize relations, senior Chinese and U.S. officials held multiple rounds of meetings in Malta on Saturday and Sunday. In the meetings, Wang Yi, Chinese foreign minister and director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, and U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan agreed to maintain high-level exchanges and hold consultations on Asia-Pacific affairs, maritime affairs as well as foreign policies. This was the second time Wang met with Sullivan in four months since their Vienna meeting in May. The two sides conducted candid, substantive and constructive strategic communication on stabilizing and improving China-U.S. relations. "China hopes that the relationship between China and the United States will get back on track. This is fundamental," said Su Xiaohui, deputy director and associate research fellow of the Department for American Studies at China Institute of International Studies. "From China's perspective, we hope that China-U.S. relations will remain stable," Su said. "China has always emphasized that China and the United States should meet each other halfway to bring bilateral relations back on the right track." Communication is necessary when China-U.S. relations are growing increasingly precarious. Over the last several months, the two sides have conducted a string of high-level engagements. Starting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's Beijing trip in June, several senior U.S. officials have visited China one after another, including Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. All these U.S. officials have stressed the importance and willingness to stabilize China-U.S. relations. However, in areas concerning China's core interests, like the Taiwan question, the United States remains provocative. In his meetings with Sullivan, Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, emphasized that the Taiwan question is the first red line that must not be crossed in the China-U.S. relationship and the U.S. must abide by the three China-U.S. joint communiques and honor its commitment to not support "Taiwan independence." On multiple occasions, U.S. President Joe Biden has reiterated his "five noes," namely not seek a new Cold War; not seek to change China's system; the revitalization of its alliances is not against China; not support "Taiwan independence;" and not look for conflict with China. But these promises did not prevent Washington from boosting arms sales to Taiwan, among others. China has decided to impose sanctions on two U.S. companies due to their involvement in arms sales to Taiwan, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning said Friday. Constant hostility towards China does not serve the U.S. interests, said Anthony Scaramucci, founder of investment firm SkyBridge Capital, in a recent episode of the "Bloomberg Talks" podcast program. "So I think we need to calm ourselves down a little bit." In recent years, the United States has adopted what it calls a "small yard, high fence" strategy in the name of protecting national security. Despite claiming it had no intention to decouple from China, the White House has continued to hammer China in the high-tech field. In the meetings with Sullivan, Wang said China's development has strong endogenous driving force and follows inevitable historical logic and it cannot be stopped. The Chinese people's legitimate right to development cannot be deprived, he added. U.S. sanctions that block China's access to U.S. processor chips and other technologies will slow down China's access to high-end capabilities to some extent, "but it's not going to keep China down forever," Singaporean Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said last month. "China will still be around. America has to learn to live with China and coexist with China," said Wong. "Hopefully, the two countries will be able to find ways to manage their differences and live together." By Chandni Shah and Daren Butler ISTANBUL (Reuters) -Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan asked Tesla CEO Elon Musk to build a Tesla factory in Turkey, the country's communications directorate said on Monday. It cited Musk as saying that many Turkish suppliers are already working with Tesla and that Turkey was among the most important candidates for its next factory. Tesla did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Erdogan and Musk were speaking during a meeting at Turkish House, a skyscraper near the United Nations in New York, Turkey's state-owned Anadolu news agency reported. Erdogan is in the U.S. to attend the 78th session of the U.N. General Assembly. Erdogan also said during the meeting that Turkey was open to cooperation on artificial intelligence and Starlink, the satellite internet venture of Musk's SpaceX, the communications directorate said. It cited Musk as saying SpaceX wished to work with Turkish authorities to obtain the necessary licence to offer Starlink satellite services in Turkey. It also said Erdogan invited Musk to attend Turkish aerospace and technology festival Teknofest in Izmir at the end of September and cited Musk as saying he would gladly attend. Musk is also set to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in California on Monday. Musk posted on social media platform X that their talks would focus on artificial intelligence technology. Tesla in August expressed an interest in building a factory in India that would produce a low-cost electric vehicle. Tesla currently has six factories and is building a seventh in Mexico in northern Nuevo Leon state, part of the automaker's push to expand its global footprint. Musk said in May that Tesla would probably pick a location for a new factory by the end of this year. Tesla shares are up 123% so far this year and the automaker on Saturday said it had produced its 5 millionth car. In addition to running Tesla, Musk also bought X, formerly known as Twitter, for $44 billion in 2022. While describing himself as a free speech absolutist, Musk has complied with some demands by the Turkish government to censor content in the country. In other cases, the social media company has objected to orders by the Turkish courts. (Reporting by Chandni Shah in Bengaluru and Daren Butler in Istanbul; Additional reporting by Michael Derby in New York; Editing by Lisa Shumaker and Jamie Freed) OOLOGAH, Okla. (KFOR) Two people were arrested on Wednesday regarding a child abuse case in Oologah, Oklahoma. According to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, the Oologah Police Department requested the agencys assistance on Wednesday, September 13, after officers responded to a local hospital where medical staff were concerned about a childs well-being. LOCAL NEWS: ODOC: Authorities searching for escaped inmate Officials say OSBI Child Abuse Response Team Agents, as well as Crime Scene Agents, gathered evidence and conducted interviews, resulting in the arrests of 25-year-old Cameron Gough and 26-year-old Maria Wilson. Both Gough and Wilson were arrested on Felony Child Abuse charges and booked into the Rogers County Jail as the investigation continues. We would like to thank the Oologah Police Department, Owasso Police Department, Owasso Fire Department, Rogers County Sheriffs Office, Rogers County District Attorneys Office and all medical staff who helped provide care for the child, said OSBI. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. Two models were found dead in their downtown Los Angeles apartments just three miles apart and in the space of one week. The Los Angeles Police Department said it has begun investigations into the deaths of Maleesa Mooney, 31 and Nichole Nikki Coats, 32, who were found dead on 12 and 15 September respectively in their apartments. It is unclear if there is a connection between the two deaths. Mooney was found dead in her luxury apartment in Bunker Hill on 12 September after her family called the police when she suddenly stopped responding to text messages and calls. Her sister Jourdin Pauline, a Guyanese pop star, said: Maleesa has always been someone who is a peacemaker in our family, someone thats always been the backbone, and making sure everyones getting together, loving on each other. Writing a tribute to her, she said it felt surreal and she keeps waking up crying thinking Im in a bad dream and demanded justice for her. The Los Angeles police said they are investigating her death as a homicide, but did not reveal if she had injuries or the possible cause of death. Authorities said Coats case is open, while the cause of death is being determined. Her family is demanding a murder investigation. Nichole Nikki Coats aunt says she could not recognise her when she saw her body (GoFundMe) Coats, who lived in an upmarket apartment in the same area, was found dead by her family members on 10 September after their attempts to contact her went unanswered. The family members said they were last told by her that she was going out on a date on Friday, two days before she was found dead. Coats aunt, May Stevens, said she could not recognise her when she saw her body. I believe it was murder, I really do. One of her legs was up in the air in a kicking position. Thats not somebody who just laid in their bed and died, she said. Her mother Sharon described the murder scene at her daughters apartment to local media site KTLA, saying it was bloody and gruesome. LAPD officer Drake Madison said that he has no idea about the circumstances of Coats death. He added that we had no information of any type of homicide or anything. We couldnt find anything on that. It could be anything. A GoFundMe has been set up by Coats family to cover her funeral cost and raised more than $14,000 as of Monday. Several people became American citizens on Sunday. The Latin American Coalition hosted a celebration welcoming them all to the country called the Welcoming to America celebration. ALSO READ: Dream come true: USCIS hosts naturalization ceremony for more than 20 immigrants on Fourth of July The event took place in east Charlotte, inside the Latin American Coalition building just off Central Avenue. The coalitions mission is to help migrants who cant afford to become U.S. citizens reach their goals. Jose Hernandez-Paris, CEO of the Latin American Coalition, says the group serves as a guide for the new migrants, and they help out in any way they can. We help them navigate the journey; we help them for free or for 40 dollars of whatever the community can contribute, Hernandez-Paris said. Everyone at Sundays celebration has become U.S. citizens this year. (WATCH BELOW: Opportunity for everybody: Charlotte man speaks on his journey to citizenship) Seven Americans landed in Doha, Qatar, Monday on their journey back to the United States as part of a much-discussed prisoner exchange on the eve of the U.N. General Assembly and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisis trip to New York for the gathering of world leaders. The group of seven, who flew on a Qatari plane from Tehran to Doha early Monday morning, include five American citizens who were detained in Iranian prisons on disputed charges: Siamak Namazi, Emad Sharghi, Morad Tahbaz and two others who have asked to remain private. They were all moved from Iranian prisons to hotel or house arrest in August as a first step in the deal. Namazis mother and Tahbazs wife, both of whom had previously been unable to leave Iran, joined the detainees. All seven will be moved to Washington, D.C., where they will be reunited with their families, according to senior administration officials who briefed reporters ahead of the announcement. President Joe Biden celebrated the release of the prisoners Monday. "Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home," Biden said in a statement, adding that they endured "years of agony, uncertainty, and suffering." Biden also thanked the governments of Switzerland, Qatar, Oman and South Korea for their assistance in the negotiations. Secretary of State Antony Blinken hailed the move in a press release Monday, saying that he was "grateful to everyone from the State Department and across the government who worked tirelessly to bring home our U.S. citizens" and that the Biden administration "will not rest until we have brought home every wrongfully detained American." News of the exchange was first announced publicly Monday morning by an Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson. As part of the deal, the U.S. has granted clemency to five Iranians who were charged or convicted with nonviolent crimes. Two of those five will also transit via Doha. The White House also confirmed that Iran will also receive access to some $6 billion of proceeds of oil sales to South Korea via a restricted account in Qatar. The sales occurred during a window when trade with Iran was not sanctioned, but the funds were left stuck in South Korea once sanctions were reimposed as a result of currency conversion issues, senior administration officials explained. The Biden administration informed Congress earlier this month that it has issued a waiver that allows international banks to transfer the $6 billion to Qatar without violating U.S. sanctions. U.S. officials have maintained that Iran is only allowed to use the money for purchasing items such as medicine and food, but Iran has been evasive as to what it intends to spend the money on. In an interview with NBCs Lester Holt earlier this month, Raisi neither confirmed nor denied assertions from U.S. authorities that the funds would be exclusively used for humanitarian purposes, saying that the money belongs to the Iranian people and that Iran would spend the money wherever we need it. The agreement has sparked pushback from Senate Republicans, who warn that Tehran could use the funds to support terrorism and have generally slammed the agreement as appeasement. Even some members of Bidens party have voiced concerns with the agreement. In an interview on CBS Face the Nation Sunday, Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.), who chairs the Senate Intelligence Committee, said that the administration has said there are guardrails. I want to get a better description of those guardrails. Warner also told interviewer Margaret Brennan that members of the Senate Intelligence Committee had not been briefed on the details on the possible deal. Senior administration officials have emphasized that the account housing the funds will be monitored and that if Iran uses the funds for other purposes, the U.S. will cut off Tehrans access. Biden also announced new sanctions Monday against Irans Ministry of Intelligence and former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in relation to the case of Robert Levinson, an American contractor who disappeared while on an unauthorized CIA mission in Iran in 2007, according to senior administration officials. Levinson is believed to have died in Iranian custody. Skeptics of the agreement voiced their approval over the new sanctions. "The new sanctions levied by the White House after the five Americans were wheels up from Iran were justified and does mitigate the issues of releasing the previously sanctioned funds," said Mick Mulroy, who served as deputy assistant secretary of Defense for the Middle East during the Trump administration, in a statement. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said that the agreement does not signal a change in policy toward Iran. "I don't think we should look at this as some sort of confidence-building measure to a better relationship with Iran," Kirby said on CNN Monday morning. "If Iran takes steps to stop their destabilizing behavior and behave as a better actor in the region, all that is to the good, but we secured this deal simply to secure this deal, to get these five Americans home." However, observers are expressing optimism that the agreement could buoy faltering diplomatic efforts with Tehran over the country's nuclear program. "Today's success really injects a much needed momentum into U.S.-Iranian relations," said Kelsey Davenport, director of nonproliferation policy at the Arms Control Association. "This swap opens a new window for diplomacy. It's part of a trend in the right direction." Raisi and Biden are among the world leaders headed to New York for this years U.N. General Assembly, but the men are not expected to meet on the sidelines this week. The exchange is a major breakthrough for the two countries, who have struggled to make headway on negotiations around Iran's nuclear program in recent years and remain at odds over Tehran's close ties to Russia amid the war in Ukraine. Matt Berg contributed to this report. After months of negotiations, the U.S. is unfreezing $6 billion in Iranian oil money and releasing five Iranian prisoners in exchange for the release of five American citizens held in the notorious Evin prison in Tehran. The deal, brokered by the Qatari government, represents an unusual moment of cooperation between the two countries, says Sanam Vakil, director of the Middle East and North Africa program at Chatham House. The deal is an important stepping stone, Vakil says. It reinitiated indirect bilateral dialogue between Tehran and Washington and it sets the ground not only for the release of American hostages held in Iran for far too long, but also for discussions to contain Irans advancing nuclear program. The $6 billion had been frozen in South Korea for years and has been a major point of dispute between Tehran and Washington. The Biden administration now has an informal agreement with the Iranian government that will roll back enrichment levels in exchange for increased oil sales, Vakil says. The New York Times previously reported in June, based on interviews with Israeli, U.S., and Iranian officials, that the Biden Administration and Tehran were quietly negotiating an unwritten agreement that would amount to a political ceasefire. Nevertheless, some remain skeptical that the Islamic Republic would follow through on that kind of informal agreement. On Saturday, Iran barred one third of United Nations inspectors from monitoring its nuclear sites. The European Union is highly concerned by the report of the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Saturdays decision by Iran to withdraw the official designation of several experienced IAEA inspectors to monitor and verify its nuclear programme, states a press release. Another concern, Vakil says, is that the Iranian regime could be further incentivized to take hostages in order to leverage political and monetary concessions from Western governments. The Islamic Republic has a long history of detaining American hostages. It goes back to 1979 when American hostages were held in the U.S. Embassy for 444 days, Vakil says. Western governments have not developed a united or coordinated policy that they're willing to implement to prevent this practice of hostage-taking from continuing. Three of the five American prisoners names have been released to the public. All three are of Iranian descent and were sentenced to 10 years of prison time for espionage and cooperation with the U.S. government. The longest serving prisoner, businessman Siamak Namazi, has been imprisoned for eight years. The other two known prisoners, Emad Shargi and Morad Tahbaz, were arrested in 2018. The three prisoners were housed in Evin prison, which is where the Islamic Republic jails many of the most prominent public intellectuals and political prisoners critical of the regime. It has been nicknamed by many as Evin University due the large numbers of students and professors jailed there. Contact us at letters@time.com. United Nations "Drop by drop, the poison of war is infecting our world," U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, opening the annual gathering of 193 nations at the U.N. General Assembly. With the world facing its highest number of violent conflicts since 1945 beset by the consequences of Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine and the related spike in food prices, as well as record temperatures, climate disasters and unprecedented numbers of migrants and asylum seekers crossing borders to look for better lives the agenda is daunting. Who is attending the U.N. General Assembly 2023? President Biden addressed the gathering on Tuesday, but the leaders of four of the five veto-wielding, permanent members of the U.N. Security Council Britain, France, Russia and China will be conspicuously absent. So how much can the United Nations hope to achieve? Of the 193 U.N. member countries, 145 nations are sending their heads of state or government to the General Assembly but of the five founding, permanent Security Council members, only Mr. Biden will be in New York this week. China's President Xi Jinping and Russia's President Putin rarely attend in person (both addressed the gathering virtually during the pandemic) and this year France's President Emmanuel Macron and U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak are not showing up. "While Sunak (U.K.) and Macron (France) have an excuse" King Charles III is visiting France this week "I do think it is telling that they are absent," Richard Gowan, U.N. Director for the International Crisis Group, told CBS News. "That said, I think the General Assembly is a good opportunity for Biden and [U.S. Secretary of State Antony] Blinken to work on firming up U.S. ties with non-Western leaders while Xi and Putin are absent." Many experts believe that competition between the U.S. and China for allies in what is often referred to as the "Global South" has undermined the U.N.'s ability to bring parties together for solutions to the world's most pressing collective problems. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres delivers a statement at U.N. headquarters in New York City, Sept. 18, 2023. / Credit: MIKE SEGAR / REUTERS "I don't see next week as being a competition between big powers. Our goal is to support smaller countries to let them know that we are as committed to them as we always have been," U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield told reporters before the meetings. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who led a recent regional summit and traveled recently to China, is also not attending. "Even without Xi and Modi at the U.N., there are quite a few non-Western leaders who will speak forcefully on behalf of the developing world," Gowan said, citing Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who is set to use his speech to make a big push for rebalancing the global system, and South Africa's Cyril Ramaphosa, who will likely also hit similar notes. He also said that leaders from small states can also have an outsize impact at the General Assembly. An example is Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley a likely candidate to be the next Secretary General who has used her recent U.N. appearances to call for reforms to the IMF and World Bank. "People are looking to their leaders for a way out of this mess," Guterres said. War in Ukraine and Zelenskyy in the spotlight The Russian invasion of Ukraine and the continuing bombardment of civilians will be the primary focus at this year's event because Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will take center stage amid the ongoing war. This follows Moscow's cancellation of a U.N.-backed grain export deal that has caused food crises in developing nations. Zelenskyy will have several opportunities to get his plea for support across to the world on this trip, including at the U.N. and in Washington, where he will meet with President Biden on Thursday. Zelenskyy told CBS News' "60 Minutes" on Sunday of the horrors that civilians are facing in his country. "If Ukraine falls, what will happen in ten years? Just think about it. If [the Russians] reach Poland, what's next? A third World War?" ge said in the interview. "We're defending the values of the whole world. And these are Ukrainian people who are paying the highest price. We are truly fighting for our freedom, we are dying. We are fighting for real with a nuclear state that threatens to destroy the world." Zelenskyy also insisted Ukraine would not consider giving up territory for a peace deal with Russia. Nonetheless, U.N. expert Gowan says, "Zelenskyy needs to be careful," saying that "even those who are sympathetic to Ukraine want to see peace talks sooner rather than later." Refugee crisis and food insecurity Another pressing issue before the U.N. at this time is the forced displacement of people around the globe, which reached a new record high of 110 million people this year, High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said on Sunday at U.N. Headquarters, causing a flood of refugees from Africa, Asia and Latin America. Food insecurity is also high on the agenda, with expectations that the daylong summit on Monday on global goals may lead to new pledges. "The number of people globally who do not have enough to eat is at its highest in modern history," the U.N.'s World Food Program said. Its executive director, Cindy McCain, said that 700 million people "don't know when or if they will eat again." Not many diplomats see breakthroughs coming at U.N. week. "We must say no to bloc confrontation, power politics or double standards. If the forthcoming General Assembly can set the right direction, rebuild people's confidence in the U.N., all other issues will be easier to be tackled," China's U.N. Ambassador Zhang Jun told CBS News on Sunday. Some experts think that focus at the U.N. is more difficult than ever. "The U.N. is adrift, but that's not the U.N.'s fault. Guterres has an ambitious and thoughtful agenda for the organization, emphasizing issues like regulating artificial intelligence and combating climate change," Gowan said. "But the big powers that shape U.N. diplomacy are focused elsewhere, and it is hard to forge agreements on long-term global problems in an era of war and hot crises." Asked about the United States' view of how the U.N. could be made more effective, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield said: "Our commitment is ironclad to see that the U.N. and particularly the Security Council is fit for purpose for the next generation." "The Security Council does not represent the world that exists today," she said. Two moms saw a need for adaptive clothes for those with disabilities, so they founded a company Watch: Biden addresses U.N. General Assembly People are increasingly unhappy at work, survey finds United Auto Workers (UAW) President Shawn Fain said Sunday he has not endorsed President Biden for the 2024 election because the union expects actions, not words from the president. Asked on CBSs Face the Nation what it will take to endorse Biden, Fain said, Our endorsements are going to be earned. Weve been very clear about that, no matter what politician. When asked how Biden can earn the endorsement, Fain said, We expect actions, not words. Fain referenced comments over the Biden administrations recent attempts to interject in the UAWs negotiations with three major automakers Ford, General Motors and Stellantis. This negotiating our negotiators are fighting hard, Fain said. Our leadership is fighting hard. Its going to be won at the negotiating table with our negotiating teams, with members manning our picket lines and our allies out there. Fains comments come after Biden said last week he was sending acting Labor Secretary Julie Su and senior aide Gene Sperling to Detroit to help reach a win-win contract for the companies and their employees. Who the president is now, who the former president was or the president before them isnt going to win this fight, Fain continued. This fight is all about one thing its about workers winning their fair share of economic justice instead of being left behind as they have been in the last decades. UAW workers began a strike against the automakers last week after ongoing negotiations failed and the workers contracts expired. The union is asking for wage increases, cost-of-living pay raises, a 32-hour work week with 40 hours of pay, union representation of workers at new battery plants and restoration of traditional-defined benefit pensions for new hires who now receive only 401(k)-style retirement plans and pension increases for retirees. Last week, former UAW President Bob King said Biden should have done a lot more already to assist striking autoworkers. In an interview with NewsNations Chris Cuomo, King said he also backed Fains decision not to endorse Biden over concerns about federal electric vehicle (EV) policies. The Biden administration has pushed for an industry shift to EVs, which require fewer workers to make, sparking concerns over how such a transition could impact workers jobs and pay. NewsNation is owned by Nexstar Media Group, which also owns The Hill. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Russia has likely redeployed at least five airborne regiments to the area of Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia Oblast to reinforce the "hard-pressed" 58th Combined Arms Army, the U.K. Defense Ministry reported on Sept. 18. At full strength, such a force should constitute around 10,000 elite paratroopers, the ministry wrote in its latest intelligence update. However, almost all units are highly likely dramatically under strength. The personnel were drawn from the 7th and 76th divisions of Russias Airborne Troops, also known as VDV, according to the update. The U.K. defense ministry said that the VDV leadership would most likely consider the current situation highly unsatisfactory. Read also: New brigade bears heavy brunt of Russias onslaught in Kharkiv Oblast Throughout the war, Russian commanders have attempted to regenerate the airborne forces as a highly mobile, striking force for offensive operations. Once again, they are being used as line infantry to augment over-stretched ground forces, the report concludes. Ukraines counteroffensive has been ongoing for more than three months in Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia oblasts. Over the past week, Ukrainian forces advanced south and east of Robotyne, having liberated 5.2 square kilometers of land, Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar said on Sept. 18. Ukraines military has regained a total of 260 square kilometers in the south since the beginning of the counteroffensive in June, according to Maliar. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine liberates Klishchiivka in Donetsk Oblast after months of heavy fighting Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly has responded to criticism from former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who said that Ukraines military partners were delaying the delivery of military aid to Ukraine. Cleverly acknowledged Johnson's leadership in his interview with UK news channel Sky News on Sept. 17, and emphasized that during his tenure the United Kingdom provided Ukraine with NLAW anti-tank systems "which played such an important role in the defense of Kyiv," as well as training Ukrainian soldiers. Read also: Russia reinforces defenses around Tokmak amid Ukraines tactical penetrations of invaders first defensive line Under current UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's leadership, the UK was the first in the world to send main battle tanks, the first to announce the fighter jets pilots training, and the first to approve the transfer of long-range missiles, Cleverly said. The UK also hosted an international conference which raised over $60 billion towards Ukraines recovery and reconstruction. The amount of aid from the UK proves that "he (Johnson) is wrong on this issue. I often talk to Ukrainians about this. They are incredibly grateful not only for our supplies but for our leadership on this issue" Cleverly said. Read also: Boris Johnson chastises NATO leaders for demanding gratitude from Ukraine Earlier, Johnson wrote a scathing column in the Spectator magazine, which he used to edit, slamming the West for going slow on providing arms to Ukraine. What the hell are we waiting for? There is only one thing they want from us and that is the weaponry to finish the job and so I simply do not understand why we keep dragging our feet Johnson wrote. Why are we always so slow? How can we look these men in the eye and explain the delay? After his recent visit to Kyiv and Lviv, Johnson called for the transfer of portable anti-aircraft missile systems, more Storm Shadow cruise missiles, howitzers, anti-aircraft defense systems, and providing as much assistance as possible in the field of unmanned technology to Ukraine. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine LUSAKA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- For Fidelity Sindolo, who runs a hair salon in the Zambian capital of Lusaka, power outages used to be a big headache, rendering her business in an on-and-off cycle. In March this year, the Chinese-built Kafue Gorge Lower Hydropower Station, about 90 km south of Lusaka, was put into operation, generating stable electricity that powers the lives of local residents. Not just Sindolo's salon thrived; new shops sprang up all over the town, a sign of vibrant economic activity stimulated by the hydropower plant. Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, who officially commissioned the plant, said the completion of the project was not only good for the country's energy sector but for the economy as a whole as energy is critical to drive an economy. He said the project showed the friendly relationship between the two countries, and his government is committed to further growing the relationship with China. Last week, at the invitation of President Xi Jinping, Hichilema paid a state visit to China. The two leaders announced the elevation of bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, opening a new chapter in their traditional friendly ties. ABIDING FRIENDSHIP China and Zambia share an enduring, traditional friendship, which was forged by the leaders of the two countries of past generations. Early in the 1960s, the Chinese people firmly supported the Zambian people in pursuing national independence. Zambia was the first country in southern Africa to establish diplomatic relations with China. For more than half a century, however the international landscape evolves, both sides stay committed to deepening friendship and cooperation, making China and Zambia "all-weather friends," as well as an exemplar of China-Africa friendship. In the 1970s, at the request of Tanzania and Zambia, China and Africa jointly built the Tanzanian Railway, known as the Road of Friendship and the Road of Freedom, on the vast African grassland. Some engineers and workers even gave their lives. In 2022, the TAZARA Memorial Park officially opened in Lusaka. In the center of the Memorial Park stands a towering monument inscribed with the words "The Chinese Martyrs Who Aided to Zambia Will Be Immortalized Forever." Rows of tombstones are finely engraved with the names of the dead. "We remember our fallen heroes," said Hichilema at the opening ceremony, who laid a wreath in tribute to the Chinese personnel who sacrificed their lives for the construction of the TAZARA Railway and other projects. GREATER COOPERATION The Kafue Gorge Lower Hydropower Station is a striking testimony to close cooperation between China and Zambia to improve local livelihoods. In recent years, China and Zambia have carried out all-round cooperation in a wide range of fields, at various levels and in a practical and innovative manner within the framework of the "Belt and Road" and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). China and Zambia have jointly built a new modern terminal at the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport and the new Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport, equipping Zambia with new aviation hubs; Chinese-built state-of-the-art milling plants have improved the supply of food and stabilized food prices for Zambian people; the Kafue Bulk Water Supply Project has been successfully delivered to ensure that about 500,000 people in the Zambian capital have access to clean and safe water. In 2022, China and Zambia signed protocols on the export of stevia and soybean meal to China, and the zero-tariff treatment granted by China to Zambia for 98 percent of the taxable export products exported to China came into full effect. In 2022, the bilateral trade volume between China and Zambia reached 6.73 billion U.S. dollars, a year-on-year increase of 30.2 percent, which is an all-time high. During last week's visit to China, Hichilema highly praised the guiding philosophy and principles of Chinese modernization and expressed the hope to learn from China's development experience. For his part, Xi said during their talks that the success of Chinese modernization shows the diversity of modernization models in the world, and China's high-quality development and modernization process will continue to bring new opportunities to all countries including Zambia. (Bloomberg) -- Ukraines anti-corruption watchdog wrote to German authorities and a Bavarian-based company seeking to halt the delivery to Russia of high-end machinery used by ammunition manufacturers. Most Read from Bloomberg The National Agency on Corruption Prevention in Kyiv informed the German government that a so-called CNC machine manufactured by Spinner Werkzeugmaschinenfabrik GmbH is en route to a plant in Russia from Turkey, according to letters seen by Bloomberg News and people familiar with the matter. The equipment is due to arrive later this month. The CNC machine, which uses computer-operated tools to make precision instruments, is required to produce high-explosive fragmentation projectiles used by Russian forces in Ukraine, the documents say. It goes without saying that once the machine reaches Russia, there will be little we can do to prevent its use for military purposes by Russia: time is of the essence, the agency wrote. The Ukrainian demand underscores concerns that Russia has worked around European Union sanctions to import banned equipment used for military purposes via countries such as Turkey and the United Arab Emirates. The machines journey from Istanbul to a Russian port on the northeastern shores of the Black Sea, which Bloomberg was unable to independently verify lays bare the challenges EU authorities face in enforcing restrictions on Russia designed to weaken its defense capabilities. German Engineering Ukraines NACP also wrote to Spinner. There is no suggestion of wrongdoing or awareness on the part of the company that its products would end up in Russia. The company didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. The CNC machine was loaded onto a truck in Turkey on Aug. 30, in preparation to be transported via ferry to a port on the northeastern shores of the Black Sea and from there will go to the Serov Mechanical Plant JSC in Russia, the documents say. The Russian ammunition manufacturer is associated with Rostec, the state-owned defense conglomerate thats a under a raft of European and US sanctions. The importer was identified as Yumak LLC, a Russian company thats a regular supplier of several sanctioned entities involved in the production of ammunition, projectiles as well as other components used by tanks and Russia Su and MiG fighter jets, according to the documents. Germanys Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Controls, which is tasked with enforcing sanctions, didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. German manufacturers like Spinner are known for their precision engineering and there are many producers of high-quality CNC machines based in Europes largest economy. The machines are used in the defense industry for high-volume production of ammunition including bullets and artillery projectiles. Other equipment produced by the company has made its way to Russia in the past from third parties and third countries, according to people familiar with the deliveries. There is no suggestion of any direct shipments from Germany, the people said. --With assistance from William Wilkes. (Updates with past deliveries in final paragraph. A previous version of the story corrected to clarify full name of company in second paragraph, subhead.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Georgia's state security services say they are allegedly planning to organize riots in the country Kyiv has denied the claims recently made by Georgian security services, labeling Tbilisi's statements as another attempt to demonize Ukraine, Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko said in a Facebook post on Sept. 18. The allegations claimed to have exposed a plan to organize a Georgian version of 2014 Euromaidan mass protests in Ukraine. Read also: Georgia summons Polish diplomat after Polish doctors visit Saakashvili We have noticed the statements from representatives of the Georgian security apparatus about the supposed involvement of the Ukrainian side in organizing a coup in Georgia, said Nikolenko. This information does not correspond to the truth. Read also: Georgians protest, forcing Russian cruise liner out of Batumi port Nikolenko added that the current Georgian government was "once again trying to demonize Ukraine to resolve its domestic political issues." He reiterated that Ukraine has not meddled, is not interfering, and does not plan to intervene in Georgias domestic affairs. Read also: Georgian opposition pushes bill to limit Russian real estate investments Previously, Georgia's security services had claimed that there are alleged plans to instigate civil unrest in the country in October-December, when EU reports on the country's progress toward joining the European Union are expected to be published. "In particular, there is confirmation that the organizers are considering implementing a scenario in Georgia similar to Euromaidan, which took place in Ukraine in 2014," the Georgian State Security Service claimed. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Ukraine's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oleh Nikolenko denied Kyiv's involvement in an alleged coup plot to oust the current Georgian government following Tbilisi's accusations earlier on Sept. 18. The State Security Service of Georgia claimed that figures close to the imprisoned Georgian ex-President Mikheil Saakashvili are preparing mass protests in October and December at the time when the European Commission is set to announce its decision on Georgia's EU membership application. The anti-government protests are allegedly meant to oust the Georgian Dream government in a "scenario similar to the EuroMaidan (Revolution)," Bacha Mgeladze, deputy director of the counterterrorism unit of Georgia's State Security Service, said at a press briefing. Mgeladze said Georgia's former Deputy Interior Minister Giorgi Lortkipanidze, who he alleged is now the deputy chief of Ukraine's military intelligence is behind the plot. Andriy Yusov, spokesman for Ukrainian military intelligence, said Lortkipanidze never worked as deputy head of the country's intelligence. The coup is allegedly "being carried out with the coordination and funding from a foreign country," the Georgian security service claimed. Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support us "The information is not true. The current Georgian authorities are once again trying to demonize Ukraine in order to solve its internal political issues," Nikolenko reacted to the allegations. "The Ukrainian state did not interfere, does not interfere, and does not plan to interfere in the internal affairs of Georgia." The relations between Ukraine and Georgia have been deteriorating namely due to the Georgian Dream's supposedly pro-Kremlin policies, carried out even though Russian forces continue to occupy Georgian territory in Abkhazia and South Ossetia. In a diplomatic spat that took place in July, the Ukrainian authorities accused Georgia of mistreatment of imprisoned Saakashvili, who is also a Ukrainian citizen and a former Governor of Odesa Oblast. Amid fears of pro-Russian leanings and democratic backsliding, the EU decided to withhold membership candidate status for Georgia last year while granting it to Ukraine and Moldova. This sparked large-scale anti-government protests in Georgia, which aimed to demonstrate the population's support for the country's European aspirations. Read also: Kutelia, Sikharulidze: Ending Putins wars dont forget Georgia Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. All six of Ukraine's deputy defense ministers were dismissed Monday, the latest purge amid a flurry of corruption scandals that led to the dismissal of the defense minister two weeks ago. Oleh Nemchinov, who leads Ukraine's Cabinet of Ministers, said on Telegram the group had approved the dismissals by resolution. It was not immediately clear whether the firings were directed by new Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy or both. Zelenskyy had cited the need for "new approaches and different formats of interaction" with the military and the Ukrainian public in announcing then-defense minister Oleksii Reznikov''s dismissal earlier this month. Ukraine Pravda reported all the deputy ministers resigned voluntarily at Umerov's request, adding that none will be returned to their positions. Revelations of graft involving weapons procurement have rocked the government in recent weeks. Zelenskyy was quick to assure allies funneling billions in cash and weaponry to Ukraine that the scandal did not involve international funds. But as the war grinds on, the U.S. and other supporters have begun demanding closer accounting of how the money is being spent. The latest firings came days before Zelenskyy is scheduled to visit to Washington and lobby for President Joe Bidens plan to provide up to $24 billion in military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine. A Ukrainian serviceman eats a piece of bread near Andriivka, Ukraine, on Sept. 16, 2023, after Ukraine's military announced the war-ravaged settlement had been recaptured. Developments: Zelenskyy is expected to lobby for continued support for his country's war effort at Tuesday's opening of the 78th annual U.N. General Assembly meeting. On the eve of the U.N. gathering in New York, Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi denied his country has sent Russia attack drones to use against Ukraine, despite considerable evidence refuting his disavowal. Russia's economy is stronger than had been projected and could grow by 2.8% by year's end, President Vladimir Putin said, even though the ruble dropped to a 17-month low against the dollar in August. Putin said GDP has returned to 2021 levels, the last full year before Russia's invasion of Ukraine set off a wave of sanctions that hampered the economy. Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin took the oath of office for a third term at an inauguration ceremony in Moscow attended by Putin. Poland barred entry of vehicles registered in Russia, an apparent attempt to curb the influx of Russian products banned by sanctions. Vehicles with Russian plates are now blocked by all five EU countries bordering Russia. Sen. Mark Kelly, in Kyiv, lauds Ukraine military Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., met with Ukraine officials and soldiers Monday in Kyiv to assess the Ukraine's military needs and discuss the value of tactical ballistic missiles. Biden is considering providing the missiles to Kyiv. Kelly, a former Navy combat pilot and NASA astronaut, said the longer-range surface-to-surface missile system, combined with a "fourth-generation fighter" such as F-16s, could alter the course of the war. But he stressed the jets must be piloted and maintained by well-trained people. That training is now underway in multiple countries, and plans call for training Ukrainians in the U.S. next month. No single capability is going to make the difference between winning and losing," said Kelly, who also praised Ukrainian forces for progress on the ground but said he wished the counteroffensive was moving faster. Two cargo ships reach Ukrainian port despite Russian threat For the first time since Russia withdrew from the Black Sea grain agreement in mid-July, two cargo ships reached an Ukrainian port over the weekend, via a temporary corridor set up by Kyiv. Russia has threatened hostile action against any ships in the Black Sea headed for Ukraine, but the Palau-flagged bulk carriers Aroyat and Resilient Africa docked Saturday at Chornomorsk in the southern Odesa province, the Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority said in a statement. Oleksandr Kubrakov, Ukraines deputy prime minister, said Saturday the vessels will be delivering about 20,000 tons of wheat to African and Asian countries. Putin has repeatedly turned down requests from the U.N. and others to rejoin the grain deal, saying Russia's terms for distributing its grain and fertilizer have not been met. Exporting agricultural products through the Black Sea is much cheaper and efficient for Ukraine than its other options. Ukraine to sue allies over grain shipments Ukraine will sue Poland, Hungary and Slovakia for refusing to drop a ban on Ukrainian agricultural products, Ukraines Trade Representative, Taras Kachka, told POLITICO. The bans were designed to protect farmers in those countries from a surge in agriculture products that could drive down prices. A Russian blockade has made it difficult for Ukraine to send its products to markets in Africa and Asia. Poland has been Ukraine's strongest European ally, but the clash over agriculture products has hit Poland's ruling Law and Justice party hard ahead of next month's elections. Law and Justice, a conservative party, has strong ties to rural communities that have expressed outrage over the increase in Ukrainian agricultural exports. Slovakia, also a strong ally, has an election Sept. 30 and the leader in the polls has called for a halt in arms shipments and other support for Ukraine. Contributing: The Associated Press This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ukraine war updates: Kyiv fires all 6 deputy defense ministers KYIV (Reuters) -The Ukrainian government dismissed six deputy defence ministers on Monday following the appointment of a new defence minister earlier this month. The government gave no reason for the dismissals, but such moves are common after a new minister's appointment. Those removed included Hanna Maliar , who frequently issues public updates on Russia's war on Ukraine. Rustem Umerov became defence minister less than two weeks ago, replacing Oleksii Reznikov . The ministry had been dogged by media allegations of corruption while Reznikov was in the post although he faced no corruption allegations himself. "Rebooting. We (have) started. We continue. (The) Ministry continues to work as usual," Umerov said in a Facebook post. The Ukrainska Pravda news site quoted unnamed government sources as saying all the deputy ministers had resigned voluntarily following a request by Umerov and would not be returning to their posts. It said consultations were under way on candidates to replace them, and quoted a source close to the ministry as saying "a complete overhaul is underway" at the ministry. Umerov has said his priorities include making the ministry the main institution for coordinating Ukrainian defence forces, enhancing the value attached to individual soldiers, developing Ukraine's military industry and fighting corruption. Maliar, a war crimes lawyer, had served as a deputy defence minister since 2021 and her latest update on the war in Ukraine appeared on Monday morning. She faced criticism last week after initially reporting that Ukrainian forces had recaptured an eastern village from Russian forces, but later saying her report was inaccurate and that fighting was still raging around the village. Its capture was then announced by the military the next day, but Russia has since denied losing control of the village. (Reporting by Anna Pruchnicka, Editing by Timothy Heritage) Ukraine lags far behind Russia in its use and production of artillery shells, according to CNN. Russia fired 60,000 shells a day earlier this year, while Ukraine now fires about 7,000, per CNN. Artillery fire has been a hallmark of Russia's 18-month war in Ukraine. Ukrainian forces are burning through artillery shells and ammunition at a rate of about 7,000 rounds a day, but this is still a much lower rate than Russia was using at the height of its military efforts earlier this year, according to CNN. Ukraine is firing 6,000 to 7,000 artillery rounds per day compared to Russia's rate of 20,000 to 60,000 at the peak of its barrages this year, CNN reported, citing figures from Estonia's defense ministry and Ukrainian MP Oleksandra Ustinova. The Ukrainian military wants to fire more than 10,000 rounds a day, according to CNN, which would still remain far below Russia's artillery efforts. But to reach that level, Kyiv would need about 1.5 million artillery shelves a year, Armin Papperfer, CEO of Rheinmetall, one of Europe's leading arms manufacturers, told the outlet. "Three years ago, everyone thought we can do everything with airplanes. It's not possible," Papperfer told CNN. The brutal artillery battle between the two sides has been a hallmark of Russia's 18-month war in Ukraine. However, this constant exchange of fire is depleting Ukraine's stockpile and worrying its allies about their own arsenals. Western weapon manufacturers have scrambled to keep pace with Russia's production rates. As of July, the US had committed to sending more than two million artillery rounds to Ukraine, while the EU has approved plans to send a quarter of a million rounds. But a senior Estonian defense ministry source told The New York Times last week that Russia is currently generating seven times as much ammunition as the US and Europe combined. To make up for it, the US has doubled its shell production from 14,000 earlier this year to 28,000 a month in September, with a view to reaching 57,000 a month by next spring, Bill LaPlante, the undersecretary of defense for acquisition and sustainment, said last week. The US could ultimately produce one million shells a year, Douglas Bush, assistant secretary of the army for acquisition, logistics, and technology, told reporters in early August. Bush failed to provide a clear timeline for this. In Europe, Germany's top arms manufacturer Rheinmetall expects to produce 400,000 shells this year, with a goal of reaching 600,000 by 2024, up from less than 100,000 shells produced annually before 2022, per CNN. Nammo, a Scandinavian munitions manufacturer, plans to increase production to 80,000 rounds per year next year, up from "a few thousand" in 2021, according to the outlet. However, it remains unclear how fast European weapon manufacturers can catch up with Russia's production rates. According to a French parliamentary report, conventional 155mm shells could take up to 20 months to supply, escalating to 24 to 36 months for more advanced guided ones. Despite efforts by Ukraine's Western allies to further isolate Russia, and slow down its production of missiles and other weaponry, the Kremlin has managed to mostly bypass sanctions, exploiting loopholes and importing US technology through neighboring states, online retailers, and a network of fake companies, as Insider previously reported. Read the original article on Business Insider President Joe Biden will offer another defense of democracy this week at the annual United Nations General Assembly, the last such global gathering before the stretch run of the U.S. election season but one already at risk of being overshadowed by messy domestic politics. Biden will again attempt to rally the world behind Ukraine, but the urgent calls to back Kyiv will be aimed just as much at home where he faces a looming funding fight with House Republicans. As he meets with world leaders, the president also will be grappling with possibly sweeping economic consequences of the United Auto Workers strike as well as ongoing fallout from the indictment of his son, Hunter, and an impeachment inquiry from Congress. His reelection bid will also be top of mind and that campaign will likely pit him against someone who challenged the American democracy that Biden will try to showcase to the world during his four days in New York. "He will lay out to the world the steps that he and his administration have taken to advance a vision of American leadership that is built on the premise of working with others to solve the world's most pressing problems, said Jake Sullivan, the national security adviser, in previewing Bidens speech on Tuesday. Sullivan argued that the administration is seeing a strong demand signal for more American engagement, for more American investment as well for more American presence across all continents and all quarters of the world. Foreign policy rarely moves votes, and Biden will likely be consumed this week with questions about a looming government shutdown as well the probe into his son. Still, the White House has leaned into Bidens image as a global statesman, using it as proof of his leadership and to highlight the revitalization of coalitions left damaged by his predecessor, Donald Trump as well as his vitality. Bidens secret trip to Kyiv earlier this year was made into a recent campaign ad designed as a subtle rebuke to critics who believe the 80-year-old president is too frail to do the job. This White House is particularly good at finding commander in chief moments to break through, even in a fractured media environment, said Jennifer Palmieri, White House communications director under former President Barack Obama. The Kyiv trip is the best pushback they have against his age, while trips to Europe and Asia and now the United Nations again establish him as the real leader of the free world. Biden is expected to meet Wednesday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the sidelines of the gathering, denying the right-wing leader the White House visit he wanted in the wake of a judicial reform that Biden has denounced as anti-democratic. Many in the White House have grown wary of Netanyahus leadership even as they may use the Turtle Bay meetings to push for a normalization of relations between longtime foes Israel and Saudi Arabia. Chinese President Xi Jinping, who skipped the G20 two weeks ago, is not expected to travel to New York. And Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be in attendance, either, although Russia maintains its seat on the U.N. Security Council and will wield influence over the proceedings. But Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will make an appearance, mainly to urge leaders gathered in New York to stay with Kyiv. Zelenskyy will then travel to Washington to make his case again Thursday at the White House and Capitol Hill. White House aides have long noted that American public support for Ukraine tends to increase after a Zelenskyy set-piece and plan to have the president attempt to capitalize on the visit. The timing has turned out to be ideal, the West Wing believes, at the start of a battle with Republicans who have called for slashing money being sent to the war zone. House Republicans, on Sunday night, introduced a government funding bill without aid for Ukraine included in it. Bidens speech Tuesday from the rostrum of the United Nations will be, in part, a pledge to keep supporting Ukraine, his advisers said, and the hope is that his remarks combined with Zelenskyys appearances will put pressure on Republicans to fund the war. Trump, the prohibitive favorite to become the GOP presidential nominee, has questioned the need to back Ukraine and repeated a desire to broker a peace deal with Russia quickly. Officials on both sides of the Atlantic assess that Putin is trying to wait out the upcoming U.S. election, believing that his fortunes in the war could change if a Republican commands from the Oval Office. Congress has already approved $113 billion in aid for Ukraine including around $70 billion for security assistance; more than 90 percent of it has already been spent or assigned. The latest White House request includes $13.1 billion for military aid to Ukraine and replenishment of Pentagon weapons supplies that have been used for the war effort. Some on the right have pushed to draw that down dramatically, one of the possible triggers of a possible government shutdown. With the U.N. meeting coming so soon after the G20 summit in India, leaders of four of the five countries that hold permanent seats on the U.N. Security Council are expected to skip the annual event. Their absence may have a welcome side effect for Biden: It could boost his administrations struggling effort to improve Americas image with less-powerful countries in Africa, Latin America and Asia that view the United Nations as a vital forum. It also could help woo those nations away from China and Russia. But Biden risks pushback from some in the West as he scorns globalization and minimizes human rights, while trying to build allied coalitions to solve big and bespoke problems. There will also be calls for global responses to the ongoing massive disasters in Morocco and Libya as well as a focus on climate change. While in New York, Biden will also hold a meeting with the U.N. Secretary General, attend a labor event with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil, and host world leaders for a reception at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. And once more mixing in the needs of domestic politics, he will attend several campaign fundraisers. Alexander Ward, Nahal Toosi and Eli Stokols contributed to this report. New explosions struck Sevastopol and smoke was seen rising from a prominent landmark just kilometres away from the Crimean city as Ukrainian forces announced they were carrying out a joint intelligence operation in the region illegally annexed by Russia in 2014. Ukraine has claimed the recapture of the eastern village of Klishchiivka on the southern flank of Bakhmut after a period of reported heavy fighting. It follows the recapture of Andriivka, another village in the region, Kyiv forces are said to be gaining ground. On Sunday they sent drones to disrupt air traffic in Moscow and caused a fire at an oil depot, according to Russian reports. "Klishchiivka was cleared of the Russians and liberated," Alexander Syrskyi, commander of Ukraine's ground forces, said in a post on the Telegram messaging app. It comes as Volodymyr Zelensky spoke out in an interview with CBS saying the conflict is World War I with drones. He explained the war is fought on a 700-mile front and the red area is the 20% of Ukraine still occupied by Russia where donated tanks should have advanced but they were stopped by Russian trenches, minefields and artillery. He said to CBS: Now, its an artillery duel with each side firing about 40,000 shells a day. Ukrainian infantry is advancing bloody yards at a time. Key Points Ukraine liberates Klishchiivka village near Bakhmut, says Kyiv New explosions at Sevastopol as Ukraine launches fresh drone strikes on Crimea Nato chief warns Putin eyes long war Ukraine on the agenda as US and China hold talks Volodymyr Zelensky to meet Joe Biden this week Four killed in Russian attacks on Ukraine - Ukrainian officials Explosions shake Ukraines Lviv as western parts remain under air raid alerts 05:20 , Arpan Rai Blasts rocked Ukraines western city of Lviv in the early hours of Tuesday as Russia launched large-scale air attacks that struck an industrial warehouse, officials said. Local officials said air defence systems were engaged in repelling a Russian air attack that started in the early hours. All of western half of Ukraine was covered under air raid alerts, starting from about 0000GMT. The mayor of Lviv Andriy Sadovyi and regional governor Maxim Kozitsky asked people to stay indoors due to the threat of continuing attacks in the region. As a result of the strike on the territory of Lviv, we recorded a fire at an industrial warehouse, he said. Explosions shake Ukraines Lviv as western parts remain under air raid alerts Ukraine says recapture of key village near Bakhmut a springboard for more gains against Russia 04:45 , Eleanor Noyce Ukraines military claims its latest recapture of a key village in Bakhmut will act as a springboard for further offensive actions against Russias continuing invasion. Ukraine scored another victory recently when it recently recaptured village Klishchiivka that lies in the southern flank of Bakhmut, as its forces fought off Russian attempts to get back into the area. The war-torn countrys forces had last week also recaptured Andriivka, another village a few kilometres to the south of Klishchiivka, after earlier criticism alleged Ukraines counteroffensive against Russian forces had slowed. Arpan Rai reports: Why recapture of key village near Bakhmut is critical for Ukraine Ukraine and its allies battle Russian bid to have genocide case tossed out of the UN's top court 03:45 , Eleanor Noyce Ukraines legal battle against Russia over allegations of genocide used by Moscow to justify its 2022 invasion resumes Monday at the United Nations highest court, as Russia seeks to have the case tossed out. Hearings at the International Court of Justice, also known as the World Court, will see Ukraine supported by a record 32 other nations in a major show of support. Kyiv launched the case shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine, arguing that the attack was based on false claims of acts of genocide in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions of eastern Ukraine and alleging that Moscow was planning genocidal acts in Ukraine. It wants the court to order Russia to halt its invasion and pay reparations. Mike Corder reports: Ukraine and its allies battle Russian bid to have genocide case tossed out of the UN's top court Pope meets with new Russian ambassador as second Moscow mission planned for his Ukraine peace envoy 02:45 , Eleanor Noyce Russias new ambassador to the Vatican met Monday with Pope Francis for a protocol visit, as signs emerged that the Vaticans Ukraine peace envoy could soon be undertaking a second mission to Moscow. The Vatican said Ambassador Ivan Soltanovsky was presenting his credentials to Francis, signalling the official start of his term. His motorcade was seen leaving the Russian embassy Monday morning, bound for the Vatican, and returning about two hours later. Soltanovsky replaced Ambassador Alexander Avdeev, whom Francis met with on Feb. 25, 2022 in a remarkable in-person papal visit to the embassy the day after Moscows forces invaded Ukraine. More here: Pope meets with new Russian ambassador as second Moscow mission planned for his Ukraine peace envoy Why did Russia invade Ukraine? 01:45 , Eleanor Noyce Russias special military operation in Ukraine has been raging for one year now as the conflict continues to record devastating casualties and force the mass displacement of millions of blameless Ukrainians. Vladimir Putin began the war by claiming Russias neighbour needed to be demilitarised and de-Nazified, a baseless pretext on which to launch a landgrab against an independent state that happens to have a Jewish president in Volodymyr Zelensky. Ukraine has fought back courageously against Mr Putins warped bid to restore territory lost to Moscow with the collapse of the Soviet Union and has continued to defy the odds by defending itself against Russian onslaughts with the help of Western military aid. Read more: Heres why Putin really invaded Ukraine Ukraine reboots defence ministry as it seeks more gains against Putins forces Tuesday 19 September 2023 00:45 , Eleanor Noyce Ukraine said it is rebooting its defence ministry after six deputy defence ministers were fired amid its most significant wartime cabinet reshuffle yet. This is the second major shake-up in Ukraines defence leadership since defence minister Oleksii Reznikov was forced to resign and replaced with Rustem Umerov two weeks ago. Deputy defence minister Hanna Maliar, who frequently issued public updates on Russias war against Ukraine, was among the six sacked on Monday. The state secretary for defence was sacked as well. Read more: Ukraine reboots defence ministry as it seeks more gains against Putins forces Trump welcomes Putins praise: That means what Im saying is right Monday 18 September 2023 23:45 , Eleanor Noyce Donald Trump has welcomed praise from Russian president Vladimir Putin after again claiming that he would end the war in Ukraine in 24 hours if he is re-elected in 2024. In a widely-criticised interview with Meet the Press moderator Kristen Welker, Mr Trump said that Putins comments proved that what Im saying is right about resolving the 18-month-old war. The former president has repeatedly claimed without providing any details that he could end the war within days should he be successful in taking back the White House. Bevan Hurley reports: Trump welcomes Putins praise: That means what Im saying is right Mexico president defends Russia participation in military parade Monday 18 September 2023 22:45 , Eleanor Noyce Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Monday defended the presence of a Russian military unit in a weekend parade marking Mexicos independence day, following sharp criticism his country had given a platform to forces that invaded Ukraine. Ukraines ambassador to Mexico, opposition politicians and critical media blasted the decision to allow a Russian unit to participate on Saturday, but Lopez Obrador said Mexico had allowed any country to join in. We have relations with all countries in the world and we invite everyone, Lopez Obrador said at a regular government press conference after noting that the presence of the Russian unit had sparked a scandal. Lopez Obrador, a leftist, has sought to keep Mexico neutral in the war between Russia and Ukraine, at one point proposing peace talks. Nonetheless, his government has backed some major U.N. resolutions criticizing Russias role in the conflict. Ukraines ambassador to Mexico, Oksana Dramaretska, said on X that the parade had been sullied by the participation of a Russian unit which she said was stained with blood. How coherent is it Mr. Lopez Obrador with your policy of neutrality and condemnation of aggression against my country?, Dramaretska wrote on the platform formerly known as Twitter. Russias embassy in Mexico celebrated the 154th Preobrazhenskiy Regiments participation in the event. Long live the friendship between Mexico and Russia!, the Russian embassy said on X. Russian defensive lines breached in capture of villages near Bakhmut, Ukraine commander says Monday 18 September 2023 21:45 , Eleanor Noyce The commander of Ukraines ground forces has claimed the recapture of another village in the east of the country has helped Kyivs forces break through part of Russias defensive lines around the devastated city of Bakhmut. The area has been a key part of Ukraines counteroffensive to try and reclaim territory occupied by Russia as part of its near-19 month invasion. Bakhmut has been the scene for some of the bloodiest fighting of the war and in the process taking on symbolic importance for both Russia and Ukraine far greater than its size. Retaking Klishchiivka is considered tactically important as it will allow Ukrainian forces to further extend their gains around Bakhmut and keep pushing forward. Chris Stevenson reports: Russian defensive lines breached in capture of two villages in east, Ukraine says Human rights in Russia have 'significantly' worsened since Ukraine war began, UN-backed expert says Monday 18 September 2023 20:45 , Eleanor Noyce The rights situation in Russia has significantly deteriorated since President Vladimir Putin launched his war against Ukraine in February last year, an expert commissioned by the U.N.s top human rights body said in her first report on the country on Monday. Mariana Katzarova, the special rapporteur on Russias rights situation mandated by the Human Rights Council, chronicled the domestic crackdown that has largely targeted critics of Putins war as well as other opposition voices in Russia. Her report, made public on Monday, is separate from another probe by U.N.-backed investigators that has accused Russia of war crimes in Ukraine. Read more: Human rights in Russia have 'significantly' worsened since Ukraine war began, UN-backed expert says Top US House Republican McCarthy to meet Zelensky this week Monday 18 September 2023 20:01 , Eleanor Noyce Republican U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy will meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky this week, McCarthy told reporters on Monday. Democratic President Joe Biden is slated to host Zelensky on Thursday at the White House, and the Ukrainian leader is expected to meet with congressional leaders from both political parties while he is in Washington, the White House said last week. Ukraine says recapture of key village near Bakhmut a springboard for more gains against Russia Monday 18 September 2023 19:45 , Eleanor Noyce Ukraines military claims its latest recapture of a key village in Bakhmut will act as a springboard for further offensive actions against Russias continuing invasion. Ukraine scored another victory recently when it recently recaptured village Klishchiivka that lies in the southern flank of Bakhmut, as its forces fought off Russian attempts to get back into the area. The war-torn countrys forces had last week also recaptured Andriivka, another village a few kilometres to the south of Klishchiivka, after earlier criticism alleged Ukraines counteroffensive against Russian forces had slowed. Arpan Rai reports: Why recapture of key village near Bakhmut is critical for Ukraine Mondi to leave Russia after agreeing to sell biggest Russian paper mill Monday 18 September 2023 18:45 , Eleanor Noyce UK paper and packaging giant Mondi has agreed to sell its largest Russian plant for around 775 million euros (668 million) to a Moscow-based property development group. Mondis share price jumped by nearly 5% on Monday morning after it unveiled the deal involving Syktyvkar, its last remaining plant in Russia and the countrys biggest paper producer. The sale to Sezar Invest, a division of property development firm Sezar Group, will involve six monthly payments in Russian rubles. Anna Wise reports: Mondi to leave Russia after agreeing to sell biggest Russian paper mill Brazil's Lula to meet Ukraine's Zelensky on Wednesday - sources Monday 18 September 2023 17:52 , Eleanor Noyce Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva will meet his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky in New York on Wednesday, two sources from the Brazilian government said on Monday. How Ukraines battle for the Black Sea could inflict serious pain on Putin Monday 18 September 2023 17:45 , Eleanor Noyce Russian warships patrol the surface of the Black Sea, launching missiles at Ukrainian cities and towns as part of a near-daily assault. While also enforcing a de-facto blockade, leaving ships in little doubt of the consequences if they try to break it. Such is the importance of this shipping route for both sides. For a long time Russian ships moved with relative impunity. And a grain deal that allowed Ukraine to export from its ports on the Black Sea allowed for an uneasy status quo to hold. But after Moscow withdrew from that deal in the summer and stepped up attacks on Ukraines ports, and Kyiv began a counteroffensive to retake land occupied by Russia in southern and eastern Ukraine the Black Sea has become one of the most active fronts in the war. Joe Middleton reports: How Ukraines battle for the Black Sea is inflicting serious pain on Putins forces Poland proposes ban on Russian diamonds, LPG in new sanctions package Monday 18 September 2023 16:44 , Eleanor Noyce Poland proposed on Monday that new European Union sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine should include a ban on Russian diamonds and Liquid Petroleum Gas and called for aligning sanctions against Belarus with those against Moscow. In a proposal seen by Reuters, Poland calls for banning imports of Russian diamonds, the sales of which brought the Russian budget $4.5 billion in 2021, it said, and putting individual sanctions on the Russian Alrosa diamond company. Alrosa has supported Russian military forces and the Russian war efforts in Ukraine, both directly and indirectly, for many years, the Polish paper said. The EU, which has already agreed 11 sanctions package against Russia since Moscow invaded Ukraine in February 2022, should also ban the provision of Information and Communication Technology services to entities from Russia, including computer software, cybersecurity services, and other ICT/IT services. In the 8th package of sanctions against Russia, IT consultancy services were banned. This is a fairly narrow scope. No further ICT services were banned in the 9th and 10th sanctions packages. Therefore, we call for other services to be included in the ban, in accordance with Polands proposals, it said. The EU should also stop buying Russian Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Poland said, to preserve the integrity and transparency of the Liquefied Petroleum Gas market and avoid distortion of competition. Although LPG is a petroleum product, it has not fallen within the scope of the EUs embargo on the products belonging to the aforementioned category, it said. Ukraine breached Russian lines by taking two eastern villages - commander Monday 18 September 2023 16:28 , Eleanor Noyce The commander of Ukrainian ground forces said on Monday the recent recapture of the eastern villages of Andriivka and Klishchiivka had enabled Kyivs troops to breach Russian lines near the devastated city of Bakhmut. These settlements, at first glance small, were important elements in the enemys defensive line which stretched from Bakhmut to Horlivka, General Oleksandr Syrskyi said on the Telegram messaging app, referring to a town about 40 km (25 miles) from Bakhmut. As a result of our troops successful actions, the enemys defensive line - which it tried to close by throwing all available reserves into battle - was breached. Syrskyi said Russian troops were still trying to regain the positions they had lost in the Bakhmut sector, and that fighting there was heavy. He gave no further details. Bulgarian army destroys explosives on drone that landed in Black Sea resort Monday 18 September 2023 16:04 , Eleanor Noyce A Bulgarian army bomb disposal team on Monday destroyed in a controlled explosion a device attached to a drone that landed on Sunday evening in the Black Sea town of Tyulenovo, the defence ministry said in a statement. The army unit inspected the site and concluded that transporting the drone to another location with the explosives still attached would not be possible, the defence ministry said. We can certainly assume that it is related to the war that Russia launched against Ukraine, Defence Minister Todor Tagarev told reporters. This war is inevitably associated with increasing risks to our security. Tagarev did not provide more detailed information on where the drone came from and how it reached NATO member Bulgaria. The tourist resort of Tyulenovo is situated 70 kilometres (43 miles) south of the Romanian border and across the Black Sea from Crimea, the peninsula annexed by Russia in 2014 and now a regular target of Ukrainian drone attacks. Police cordoned off the area on Sunday evening and restricted public access to local restaurant terraces, Marian Zhechev, mayor of Shabla municipality of which Tyulenovo is a part, told Nova TV. He said the drone had been found on rocks next to moored boats at Tyulenovo, describing it as an aircraft with standard ammunition. It was unclear whether the drone had fallen from the air or had been washed up by the sea currents. A blast is seen in the place where drone carrying explosives was detonated on the Black Sea coast near the village of Tyulenovo, Bulgaria (via REUTERS) Georgia accuses ex-official of plotting from Ukraine to oust Tbilisi government Monday 18 September 2023 15:47 , Eleanor Noyce Georgia on Monday accused a former deputy interior minister now working for Ukrainian intelligence of plotting to encourage civil unrest to try to overthrow the Tbilisi government, testing ties with Ukraine as Georgia deepens relations with Russia. The State Security Service said it had been monitoring a group led by Giorgi Lortkipanidze, now deputy head of Ukrainian military intelligence but previously deputy minister in a strongly pro-Western Georgian government. According to confirmed and verified information, the implementation of the plan - developed by Giorgi Lortkipanidze - would involve a rather large group of Georgian fighters in Ukraine and a part of Georgian youth, influenced by interested parties, whose training is taking place near the Polish-Ukrainian state border, the service said in a statement. It did not provide corroborating evidence and no comment was immediately available from Kyiv or Lortkipanidze. The statement said the alleged plotters planned to channel likely frustration among young Georgians if the European Union failed to grant their country candidate status after a process culminating at an EU summit in mid-December. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday said the future of Ukraine, Moldova and Western Balkan countries was in our union, but was more cautious on Georgia, which EU officials say has slid back on its path to membership. The Caucasus republic, which says it is committed to joining the EU, was denied candidate status last year even as Ukraine and Moldova received it. For Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League, representing Ukraine is a duty to the country Monday 18 September 2023 15:31 , Eleanor Noyce Just playing is a small victory for Shakhtar Donetsk, though the Ukrainian champions wont stop there. Team captain Taras Stepanenko told The Associated Press on Monday that Shakhtars opening Champions League game against Porto on Tuesday is part of his teams duty to represent Ukraine and show his countrys resilience. Our soldiers fight in the battles and we fight in the sports arena. So its our duty like citizens of Ukraine, he said. More here: For Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League, representing Ukraine is a duty to the country Ukraine and its allies battle Russian bid to have genocide case tossed out of the UN's top court Monday 18 September 2023 15:15 , Eleanor Noyce Ukraines legal battle against Russia over allegations of genocide used by Moscow to justify its 2022 invasion resumes Monday at the United Nations highest court, as Russia seeks to have the case tossed out. Hearings at the International Court of Justice, also known as the World Court, will see Ukraine supported by a record 32 other nations in a major show of support. Kyiv launched the case shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine, arguing that the attack was based on false claims of acts of genocide in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions of eastern Ukraine and alleging that Moscow was planning genocidal acts in Ukraine. It wants the court to order Russia to halt its invasion and pay reparations. Mike Corder reports: Ukraine and its allies battle Russian bid to have genocide case tossed out of the UN's top court Kosovo's prime minister blames EU envoy for the failure of recent talks with Serbia Monday 18 September 2023 14:55 , Eleanor Noyce Kosovos prime minister on Monday accused the European Union special envoy in the normalization talks with Serbia of not being neutral and correct and coordinating with Belgrade against Pristina. Prime Minister Albin Kurti said EU envoy Miroslav Lajcak had coordinated with Serbias President Aleksandar Vucic in the EU-facilitated talks held last week in Brussels. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, who supervised the talks in Brussels, blamed the latest breakdown on Kurtis insistence that Serbia should essentially recognize his country before progress could be made on enforcing a previous agreement reached in February. Read more: Kosovo's prime minister blames EU envoy for the failure of recent talks with Serbia Ukraine reboots defence ministry as it seeks more gains against Putins forces Monday 18 September 2023 14:41 , Eleanor Noyce Ukraine said it is rebooting its defence ministry after six deputy defence ministers were fired amid its most significant wartime cabinet reshuffle yet. This is the second major shake-up in Ukraines defence leadership since defence minister Oleksii Reznikov was forced to resign and replaced with Rustem Umerov two weeks ago. Deputy defence minister Hanna Maliar, who frequently issued public updates on Russias war against Ukraine, was among the six sacked on Monday. The state secretary for defence was sacked as well. Read more: Ukraine reboots defence ministry as it seeks more gains against Putins forces Human rights in Russia have 'significantly deteriorated' since war - UN expert Monday 18 September 2023 14:30 , Eleanor Noyce The human rights situation in Russia has significantly deteriorated since it invaded Ukraine in February last year, a United Nations expert said on Monday, describing a systematic crackdown on civil society and calling for redress. The report by Special Rapporteur Mariana Katzarova alleges that Russian authorities have carried out mass arbitrary arrests of critics of the war and says those detained risk death due to the persistent use of torture and ill-treatment. It is the first time the 16-year-old U.N. Human Rights Council (HRC) has been mandated to examine the record of one of its so-called P5 members, which hold permanent seats on the Security Council. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said he could not comment for the time being because he had yet seen the report. Moscow has previously called criticism of its domestic rights record unfounded and denied targeting civilians in Ukraine, where it says it is carrying out a special military operation to destroy military infrastructure. (The expert) has documented the recent legislative restrictions that are being used to muzzle civil society and punish human rights activists and others for their anti-war stance, the report said in its conclusions. The often-violent enforcement of these laws and regulations has resulted in a systematic crackdown on civil society organisations that has closed civic space and independent media, it said. Since Russias invasion of Ukraine, Moscow has passed stronger laws to punish dissenters and perceived traitors. The report says 20,000 people have been detained between Feb. 2022 and June 2023 for taking part in protests and more than 600 criminal lawsuits were opened for so-called anti-war activity. The U.N. expert Katzarova, a former journalist from Bulgaria who led investigations during the two Chechen wars for Amnesty International, also referred to attempts by Russia to obstruct her mandate, saying such actions showed a lack of political will to uphold its human rights obligations. Moscow told the expert it did not recognise her work and said it would be automatically disregarded, the report said. A debate on the reports findings is expected at the HRCs ongoing session in Geneva on Thursday. European Union countries are set to seek a renewal of Katzarovas mandate. More than a dozen non-governmental organisations have written to diplomats in Geneva asking them to support the renewal, a letter showed. Ukraine warns Russia not to attack power plants Monday 18 September 2023 14:15 , Lydia Patrick Ukrainian president Zelensky said his troops would not be scared to retaliate if Moscow repeated strategies to freeze Ukrainian civillians by targeting power plants. Last winter saw millions of Ukrainians without power, heat and water as temperatures plummet below 0C. The leader revealed Kyiv will battle through at whatever cost as temperatures are set to drop in six weeks. In an interview with CBS he threatened: If you cut off our power, deprive us of electricity, deprive us of water, deprive us of gasoline, you need to know we have the right to do it Last winter Ukrainians were forced to survive harsh conditions without power as Moscow targeted power plants (Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) Four killed in Russian attacks on Ukraine - Ukrainian officials Monday 18 September 2023 14:13 , Eleanor Noyce Russia carried out new air strikes and shelling in Ukraine overnight and early on Monday, killing at least four people, Ukrainian officials said. A man aged 72 and an elderly woman were killed, and three others were wounded, in an overnight attack on the southern region of Kherson, regional governor Oleksandr Prokudin said. The general prosecutors office said a man riding a bicycle had been killed in Russian shelling near the eastern town of Toretsk, and that a woman had been killed in an air strike at around noon in the eastern city of Avdiivka. Odesa region governor Oleh Kiper said the Izmail district, home to Danube River ports that are used to export grain, had been targeted in a drone attack but reported no damage to port or grain infrastructure. Russia has continued its campaign of air strikes and shelling across Ukraine as Kyiv mounted a counteroffensive to try to push back Moscows forces following their invasion nearly 19 months ago. In the latest overnight Russian attacks, Ukraines air force said 18 out of 24 Russian drones had been shot down, and that 17 cruise missiles had been destroyed over the Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions. Moscow says Ukraine has increasingly attacked targets inside Russia. In the latest such strike, Russian forces shot down two Ukrainian drones over southwestern Crimea and a third over Belgorod region on Sunday, the Russian defence ministry said. Reuters was not able to immediately verify the reports. Russia did not comment on the latest attacks and has said it does not deliberately target civilians. Russia scrambled fighter to intercept U.S. patrol plane over Barents Sea Monday 18 September 2023 14:00 , Eleanor Noyce Russia scrambled a MiG-31 jet fighter on Monday to intercept a U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon patrol plane approaching its airspace over the Barents Sea, the Russian Defence Ministry said. No casualties in blast at government headquarters in Russian-held Donetsk - governor Monday 18 September 2023 13:50 , Eleanor Noyce The Moscow-installed governor of the Russian-held part of Ukraines Donetsk region, Denis Pushilin, confirmed on Monday a blast at the local government headquarters, but said that no one had been killed or wounded. Russias state news agency RIA reported earlier on Monday that a series of blasts had been heard at the headquarters of the Russian-installed local authorities in the city of Donetsk, in eastern Ukraine. The citys Russian-installed mayor said in a statement on Telegram that central Donetsk had come under fire. 'We mustnt give Putin a break Monday 18 September 2023 13:45 , Lydia Patrick Volodymyr Zelesnky says Kyiv will do whatever it takes to liberate territory and will push through freezing conditions set to arrive in six weeks. He defiantly spoke out in an interview last night with CBS, saying: We need to liberate our territory as much as possible and move forward, even if its less than [half a mile or] a hundred [yards] we must do it. (Ritzau Scanpix/AFP via Getty Ima) We cant lose time. Forget about the weather, and the like. In places that we cant get through in an armored vehicle - lets fly. If we cant fly lets send drones. We mustnt give Putin a break. EU braces for tussle over 12th sanctions package against Russia - Bloomberg News Monday 18 September 2023 13:40 , Eleanor Noyce The European Union is gearing up for a fight over what should be included in its 12th package of sanctions over Russias war in Ukraine, Bloomberg News reported on Monday. The new measures, which could be presented as early as next month, would likely include the EUs version of the upcoming G7 ban on purchases of Russian diamonds and possibly a long-awaited proposal to use the profits generated by frozen central bank assets to aid Kyiv, the report added citing people familiar with discussions. Moscow fires cruise missiles in sea drills between Russia and Alaska Monday 18 September 2023 13:31 , Eleanor Noyce Russia fired cruise missiles at mock targets in the seas separating it from Alaska on Monday in what it said was an exercise to protect its northern shipping route in the Arctic. The defence ministry said Vulcan, Granit and Onyx cruise missiles were fired over distances of hundreds of kilometres to strike targets simulating enemy ships in the Bering Sea. The exercise involved land-, ship- and submarine-launched missiles and included about 10,000 military personnel, as well as planes and helicopters, the ministry said. The drills took place on Russias Chukotka peninsula and in the Chukchi and Bering Seas, and were supervised by Admiral Nikolai Yevmenov, commander-in-chief of the Russian navy. Russia is keen to demonstrate its continued ability to project force in the Arctic and the far east despite the strains on its armed forces from the 18-month war in Ukraine. Moscow said last year it planned to spend almost $30 billion by 2035 on developing the northern sea route, which has become more viable as climate change has reduced sea ice in the Arctic. It runs across the top of Russia from Murmansk near the borders with Norway and Finland to the Bering Strait near Alaska. President Vladimir Putin highlighted the importance of the route in a speech to the BRICS group of countries last month, saying Russia was planning to construct new ports and fuel terminals and expand its icebreaker fleet. Blasts heard at government headquarters in Russian-held Donetsk - RIA correspondent Monday 18 September 2023 13:19 , Eleanor Noyce The Russian state news agency RIA reported on Monday that a series of blasts had been heard at the headquarters of the Russian-installed local authorities in the Russian-held city of Donetsk, in east Ukraine. The citys Russian-installed mayor said in a statement on Telegram that central Donetsk was under fire. Reuters could not immediately independently confirm the statement. Pope meets with new Russian ambassador in phase two of his Ukraine peace convoy Monday 18 September 2023 13:15 , Lydia Patrick Pope Francis will meet Russias new ambassador to the Vatican today, prompting beliefs that the Vaticans Ukraine peace envoy could soon undertake a second mission to Moscow. Soltanovsky replaced Ambassador Alexander Avdeev, whom Francis met with on 25 February, 2022 in an in-person visit to the embassy the day after Moscows forces invaded Ukraine. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that Moscow was ready to meet again with Francis Ukraine peace envoy, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, a veteran of the Catholic Churchs peace initiatives. The Vatican is continuing its efforts. The papal envoy will come back (to Russia) soon, Lavrov said at a roundtable discussion on Ukraine, as reported by AP on September 15. Pope-Francis (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) Russia urges the UNs highest court to throw out Genocide case Monday 18 September 2023 12:45 , Lydia Patrick Russia has called a Ukrainian case alleging that Moscow abused the Genocide Convention to justify its invasion last year an abuse of process, say AP. The leader of Moscows legal team at the International Court of Justice, Gennady Kuzmin, told the 16-judge panel that Ukraines case that seeks to halt the invasion is hopelessly flawed and at odds with the longstanding jurisprudence of this court, say AP. Kyivs case filed shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine argues that the attack was based on false claims of acts of genocide in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions of eastern Ukraine and alleges that Moscow was planning genocidal acts in Ukraine. View of the Peace Palace which houses World Court where Ukraines legal battle against Russia over allegations of genocide (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) Kyiv claimed that: Russia has turned the Genocide Convention on its head - making a false claim of genocide as a basis for actions on its part that constitute grave violations of the human rights of millions of people across Ukraine. Lawyers for Russia insist that the court does not have jurisdiction and that the Genocide Convention cannot be used to regulate use of force by nations. Ukraines legal team will respond on Tuesday and urge judges to press ahead to hearings on the substance of its claims. Ukraine brought the case to the Hague-based court based on the 1948 Genocide Convention, which both Moscow and Kyiv have ratified. In an interim ruling in March 2022, the court ordered Russia to halt hostilities in Ukraine, a binding legal ruling that Moscow has flouted as it presses ahead with its devastating attacks on Ukrainian towns and cities. 32 of Ukraines allies including Canada, Australia and every European Union member nation except Hungary will also make statements on Wednesday in support of Kyivs legal arguments. Ukraine and Russia pelt each other with 40,000 shells a day Monday 18 September 2023 12:15 , Lydia Patrick Kyiv and Moscow fire 40,000 shells from each side per day across the 1,000km front line, says President Zelensky. The Ukrainian Leader shared details of the explosive battlefield in an interview with CBS published yesterday. He also sent a message to Russia in the CBS interview, warning: Your sky is not as well protected as you think. He added: If you cut off our power, deprive us of electricity, deprive us of water, deprive us to gasoline, we have the right to do the same to you. (EPA) Ukraine to sue Poland, Hungary and Slovakia over food import bans Monday 18 September 2023 11:45 , Lydia Patrick Ukraine plans to sue Poland, Hungary and Slovakia over bans on Ukrainian agricultural products, according to Politico. The Ukrainian Trade Representative Taras Kackha told Politico on Sunday: It is important to prove that these actions are legally wrong. And thats why we will start legal proceedings tomorrow. Rebelling against the European Comission, the EU countries have decided to impose their own bans on Ukrainian grain after the Comission lifted its temporary restriction. Kachka told Politico. I think that Hungary here is making a political statement that it wants to block trade with Ukraine and as well disregard Brussels completely. And thats why I think that this is a very bold movement against both of us from Budapest. The EU countries say they have acted in the best interest of their farmers who are facing depressed prices. Ukraine government dismisses deputy defence ministers including Maliar Monday 18 September 2023 11:15 , Lydia Patrick The Ukrainian government said on Monday it had decided to dismiss six deputy defence ministers including Hanna Maliar, who has provided frequent updates on the latest fighting in the war with Russia. Reuters report the government havent given a reason for the decision, Ukraine appointed Rustem Umerov as new defence minister earlier this month. He posted on Facebook: (AFP or licensors) Chinese foreign minister visits Russia for security talks day after Kim Jong-un leaves Monday 18 September 2023 10:45 , Lydia Patrick Chinas foreign minister will be in Russia this week for security talks, arriving in Moscow just a day after North Koreas leader Kim Jong-un wrapped up his own visit to the country. Wang Yis visit comes as an increasingly isolated Russia seeks support from its international allies for its war against Ukraine. Running from Monday to Thursday, the visit will involve a strategic security consultation between China and Russia, the Chinese foreign ministry said. Wang Yi will arrive in Moscow just a day after North Koreas leader Kim Jong-un left (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) Chinas foreign minister will be in Russia this week for security talks, arriving in Moscow just a day after North Koreas leader Kim Jong-un wrapped up his own visit to the country. Wang Yis visit comes as an increasingly isolated Russia seeks support from its international allies for its war against Ukraine. Running from Monday to Thursday, the visit will involve a strategic security consultation between China and Russia, the Chinese foreign ministry said. Read the full story by Arpan Rai here Chinese foreign minister visits Russia day after Kim Jong-un leaves country Human Rights have significantly deteriorated in Russia, according to UN Monday 18 September 2023 10:15 , Lydia Patrick A United Nations expert said on Monday that the human rights in Russia have significantly deteriorated since it invaded Ukraine in February last year, describing a systematic crackdown on civil society organisations. The UN expert, as reported in Reuters said:Russian authorities have severely curtailed the freedoms of association, peaceful assembly and expression, both online and offline, and have fundamentally undermined the independence of the judiciary and the guarantees of fair trial. Ukraine are currently in a legal battle with Russia over genocide allegations (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) An array of administrative sanctions is being applied arbitrarily against dissenters and force used against peaceful protesters. The report by the Special Rapporteur is the first time that the 16-year-old Human Rights Council (HRC) has been mandated to examine the rights record of one of its so-called P5 members, which hold permanent seats on the Security Council. There was no immediate comment from the Russian diplomatic mission in Geneva, say Reuters. Whats next? A Third World War?' Monday 18 September 2023 09:45 , Lydia Patrick Ukranian president Volodymyr Zelensky urged for international collaboration in an explosive CBS interview, as he says they are fighting World War I but with drones. Zelensky told CBS: I dont have an answer. The whole world [has to] decide whether we want to stop Putin, or whether we want to start the beginning of a world war. Zelensky says he is thankful to the US but doesnt know how much more money war efforts will require (AFP via Getty Images) We cant change Putin. Russian society has [lost] the respect of the world. They elected him, and re-elected him and raised a second Hitler. He also said he was grateful for the financial aid of $70 billion provided by the United States but asks if they will continue their support to other Baltic states - which will be Putins next targets, according to the President. Two people killed in overnight Russian attacks in South Ukraine, says Kyiv Monday 18 September 2023 09:15 , Lydia Patrick Russia carried out a new wave of overnight air strikes and shelling in Ukraine, killing two people in the southern region of Kherson, say Ukrainian officials. Kherson region governor Oleksandr Prokudin said a man aged 72 and an elderly woman had been killed in a Russian attack on the region last night, and three others were wounded - as reported by Reuters. He said four others were hurt in a morning drone attack on the town of Beryl, adding: The occupiers deliberately attacked a crowded place, dropping explosives near the local bus station. A previos attack in Kherson which destroyed a family home (Ihor Krylenko/Telegram) Odes region governor Ole Kipper said the Izmail district, home to Danube River ports that are used to export grain, had been targeted in a drone attack. Ukraines air force said 18 out of 24 Russian drones were shot down, and that 17 cruise missiles were downed overnight over the Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions. The deputy governor of the Khmelnytskyi region said the blast wave had damaged the roofs and windows of several homes, and debris fell on the territory of an unspecified production facility and damaged a railway track. Reuters was not able to immediately verify the reports. Russia did not comment on the latest attacks and has said it does not deliberately target civilians. Bulgaria inspect mystery drone in Black Sea resort Monday 18 September 2023 08:45 , Lydia Patrick Bulgarias defence minsister has sent a special unit to investigate and deactivate a drone carrying explosives which landed on Sunday evening in the town of Tyulenovo. Following inspection the team from NATO-member Bulgaria will decide how to dispose of it, the defence ministry said in a statement adding that the team was sent upon the request of the regional government, reportReuters. One of the Black Sea resorts near Varna 55 miles from Tyulenovo (Getty Images) The town of Tyulnevo is located 70km from the Romanian border and across the sea from Crimea. Bulgarian media reported that a drone carrying explosives landed late on Sunday evening. Nova.bg web site reported quoting witnesses that the drone was between 3 and 3.5 metres long. It said that the drone had a container with explosives attached to it. Ukraines legal battle against Russian over genocide allegations continues Monday 18 September 2023 08:15 , Lydia Patrick Ukraines legal battle against Russia over allegations of genocide used by Moscow to justify its 2022 invasion resumes today at the United Nations. Hearings at the International Court of Justice, also known as the Word Court, will see Ukraine supported by a record 32 other nations. 32 of Ukraines allies including Canada, Australia and every European Union member nation except Hungary will also make statements in support of Kyivs legal arguments (Col. Gen. Syrskyi via REUTERS) Kyiv launched the case shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine, arguing that the attack was based on false claims of acts of genocide in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions of eastern Ukraine and alleging that Moscow was planning genocidal acts in Ukraine. It wants the court to order Russia to halt its invasion and pay reparations.Filing its case last year, Ukraine said that Russia has turned the Genocide Convention on its head making a false claim of genocide as a basis for actions on its part that constitute grave violations of the human rights of millions of people across Ukraine. Ukraine brought the case to the Hague-based court based on the 1948 Genocide Convention, which both Moscow and Kyiv have ratified. In an interim ruling in March 2022, the court ordered Russia to halt hostilities in Ukraine, a binding legal ruling that Moscow has flouted as it presses ahead with its devastating attacks on Ukrainian towns and cities. Hearings this week are expected to see lawyers for Russia argue that the court does not have jurisdiction to hear the case, while Ukraine will call on judges to press ahead to hearings on the substance of its claims. The courts panel of international judges will likely take weeks or months to reach a decision on whether or not the case can proceed. If it does, a final ruling is likely years away. The ICC has issued a war crimes arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of responsibility for the abduction of Ukrainian children. Kim Jong Un returns home with Russian gifts Monday 18 September 2023 07:45 , Lydia Patrick North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has returned after his Russian summit with a selection of souvenirs- including a rifle, a cosmonauts glove a fur hat and military drones. Kim Jong-un received a Russian-made rifle of the highest quality, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. In return Jong-un gifted Putin with a rifle made by North Korean craftsmen. Putin also presented a glove from a spacesuit worn in space, Russias TASS news agency said. Oleg Kozhemyako, the governor of the Primorsky region, presented Kim with a set of modern, lightweight body armour designed for assault operations that protects the chest, shoulders, throat and groin, Russia media said. Kim Jong-Un heads home after summit with Putin (AP) Kim was also presented with five one-way attack drones and a Geranium-25 reconnaissance drone, which is widely used in the war in Ukraine, TASS said. The drones alone are a violation of UN sanactions. The items will be stored in North Koreas friendship museum - an exhibition dating back to 1978 where the country store items given to them from other countries. The collection includes crystalware sent from former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, tea cup set from French President Francois Mitterrand, a basketball signed by Michael Jordan given by former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright on her visit in 2000 and a rifle given by the late Cuban leader Fidel Castro. Nato chief warns Putin eyes long war Monday 18 September 2023 07:13 , Arpan Rai Natos secretary general has warned Ukraine it is in for a long war with Russia while a Kyiv chief has called for the swift provision of weapons to halt Vladimir Putins forces. Ukraine has been continuing its counteroffensive, claiming to have taken the eastern village of Klishchiivka. Kyiv soldiers reportedly continued their counteroffensive on Sunday, using drones to disrupt air traffic in Moscow and causing a fire at an oil depot in the southwest of Russia. Ukraine has not yet commented on the attacks. In addition, an anti-Moscow guerilla group claims to have destroyed two Russian vehicles in Kherson. Nato chief warns Putin eyes long war as Ukraine claims eastern village Recapture of Klishchiivka a springboard for more action, says Kyiv Monday 18 September 2023 07:06 , Arpan Rai Ukraines military claims its latest recapture of a key village in Bakhmut will act as a springboard for further offensive actions against Russias continuing invasion. Ukraine scored another victory recently when it recently recaptured village Klishchiivka that lies in the southern flank of Bakhmut, as its forces fought off Russian attempts to get back into the area. The war-torn countrys forces had last week also recaptured Andriivka, another village a few kilometres to the south of Klishchiivka, after earlier criticism alleged Ukraines counteroffensive against Russian forces had slowed. Both settlements have been reduced to ghost towns and destroyed in the months of fighting for Bakhmut that had fallen into Russian hands in May this year. Arpan Rai reports here: Why recapture of key village near Bakhmut is critical for Ukraine From Sunday: Poland imposes EU ban on all Russian-registered passenger cars Monday 18 September 2023 07:00 , William Mata Poland began to enforce a European Union ban Sunday on all Russian-registered passenger cars seeking to enter the country the latest in a series of sanctions on Russia in punishment for its war against Ukraine. Under the EUs decision, motor vehicles registered in the Russian Federation are no longer allowed to enter the territory of the 27-member bloc. A car registered in Russia has no right to enter Poland, Polish Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski said Saturday, announcing the ban that took effect hours later at midnight. Read more about the issue in Vanessa Geras article here. (Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) New explosions at Sevastopol as Ukraine launches fresh drone strikes on Crimea Monday 18 September 2023 06:28 , Arpan Rai Fresh explosions struck Sevastopol and smoke was seen rising from a prominent landmark just kilometres away from the Crimean city as Ukrainian forces announced they were carrying out a joint intelligence operation in the region illegally annexed by Russia in 2014. Pro-Russian Telegram channel ChP Sevastopol reported explosions in the area of Cape Fiolent late on Sunday night, while another Telegram channel reporting on Crimea shared visuals of an explosion and smoke arising from the same area. The location, on the Crimean peninsulas southern coast about 16km away from Sevastopol, has a marine radio engineering unit and a radio engineering station with a dozen radar antennas, an unnamed intelligence source told Ukraines Suspilne public broadcaster. Arpan Rai reports here: New explosions at Sevastopol as Ukraine launches fresh airstrikes on Crimea Update: US sees some limited signs of opening on military talks with China Monday 18 September 2023 05:00 , William Mata The United States saw some "limited" signs that China may allow some communications between the countries' militaries during 12 hours of talks between senior diplomats in Malta this weekend, according to a senior Biden administration official. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan also raised concerns over China's assistance to Russia and recent actions by Beijing in the Taiwan Strait during his talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, the official said. Concerns: Jake Sullivan (AP) Video shows anti-aircraft missile systems being destroyed' Monday 18 September 2023 04:00 , William Mata Ukraines department for defence has released a video which it claims shows two Russian Buk-M3 anti-aircraft missile systems being destroyed. And right after, the headquarters of the brigade and division of the Airborne Forces of the occupiers, which they were covering, were also annihilated, the statement on Twitter added. Svitlodarsk. Two Buk-M3 anti-aircraft missile systems are being destroyed. And right after, the headquarters of the brigade and division of the Airborne Forces of the occupiers, which they were covering, were also annihilated. pic.twitter.com/pOT6bIttpb Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) September 17, 2023 From Sunday: UKs top agenda at UN General Assembly: Ukraine, AI and sustainable development Monday 18 September 2023 03:00 , William Mata The world must recommit to the United Nations sustainable development goals if the ambitious targets are to be met, UK ministers and diplomats will urge at a UN summit next week. Prime ministerRishi Sunak has been accused of snubbing the gathering in New York, blaming diary pressures for his absence and instead sending a team headed by his deputy Oliver Dowden. He is not the only world leader expected to miss the summit, which is set to see discussions on the war in Ukraine, artificial intelligence and the threat of climate change. Dominic McGraths full story is here. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol addresses the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly (Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) by Xinhua writers Hu Tao, Mao Zhenhua, Wang Jinghuai TIANJIN, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- China is accelerating the building of a national emergency air rescue system with characteristics of Chinese modernization by facilitating the progress of homegrown aircraft and various other coordinated moves. "The situation of natural disasters in China is tough and complex. The building of emergency air rescue is a systematic work with great significance, and it is also of importance in promoting the modernization of the national emergency management system and capabilities," said Guo Zhiwu, a senior official with the Ministry of Emergency Management. Guo made the remarks at the 6th China Helicopter Exposition held in north China's Tianjin Municipality. He said that China's emergency rescue sector is making a comprehensive transition from mainly combating forest fires to meeting various challenges from natural disasters. "Moving forward, we are building a system of emergency air rescue equipment that can meet the demands of the country's practical emergency rescue work," Guo added. According to China's 14th Five-Year-Plan (2021-2025), China's national emergency management system will be improved by strengthening and improving the air rescue system and capabilities. "The Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) is pioneering the development of Chinese aeronautical equipment for emergency rescue operations. It is our mission to sustain the building of the national emergency air rescue system," said Zhou Guoqiang, spokesperson of the AVIC, China's leading aviation manufacturer. Zhou said that the state-owned AVIC highlights significant advantages with a coordinated and complete industrial chain, capacities in developing core technologies, as well as the resilience in maintaining progress amid risks and challenges. At the expo, the AVIC displayed a series of homegrown helicopters and equipment for emergency rescue, especially the AC series civil helicopters such as the 4-tonne-level AC332, 7-tonne-level AC352 and various other major models with latest key progress. Helicopters are an efficient modern emergency rescue method as they can conduct vertical take-off and landing, hover in midair, move freely in any direction and adapt to complex environments. They can reach the "last mile" of disaster-hit areas to save people and deliver supplies, and send patients for medical rescue. They can also search and rescue people in marine accidents, and pour water on fires with installed rescue equipment. "Emergency rescue is characterized by urgency, difficulty and danger. China's complex geographical environment determines that we must have rescue equipment that can meet all rescue demands," said Xu Chaoliang, vice president with AVIC China Helicopter Research and Development Institute. China must develop and put into use a series of helicopters that can safely carry out rescue operations in all natural disasters across the country, according to Xu, also chief designer of China's 13-tonne-level AC313 large civil helicopter. The AC313 has a maximum take-off weight of 13.8 tonnes with external sling loads. It can carry up to 28 people, and can load up to five tonnes of water in combating fires. "The Chinese-developed technologies, such as the small-diameter wide rotor blade, make this large helicopter capable of conducting rescue missions on high plateaus and sea rescues by boarding vessels," Xu said. China's enhanced emergency air rescue capabilities are facilitating more homegrown aircraft to serve people's well-being. "We are expected to be the pioneer in using more homegrown helicopters and serving emergency rescue operations," said Gong Quan, vice president with China Flying-Dragon General Aviation Co., Ltd. under the AVIC. The company is now operating a fleet of 83 general aircraft, including 43 helicopters, especially a series of Chinese-developed civil helicopters. A female helicopter pilot and flight instructor, Gong has piloted various models of Chinese helicopters on firefighting, flood rescue and other rescue missions. "They can fully meet the needs of various rescue operations in high mountains and valleys," said Gong. "I am so honored to pilot the Chinese-developed helicopters to save our people from danger," she said. Soldiers pose with the Ukrainian and unit flags in front of a church in the village of Klishchiivka, Donetsk Oblast, on Sunday after recapturing it from Russian forces. Photo courtesy Andriy Yermak/Telegram Sept. 18 (UPI) -- Ukraine's military claimed it has recaptured the village of Klishchiivka in Donetsk Oblast, the latest of a series of advances in and around the eastern city of Bakhmut chalked up by its summer counteroffensive. The 5th Separate Assault Brigade, the 80th Air Assault Brigade and the Liut "Fury" National Police Assault Brigade led the operation Sunday after months of heavy fighting to drive out Russian forces which captured the settlement in January, General Oleksandr Syrskyi wrote on Telegram. Ukrainian soldiers with the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade, also conducting operations in the vicinity, had reported their advance on Klishchiivka, 5.5 miles south of Bakhmut, was extremely difficult due to dense minefields and continual bombardment from Russian artillery. President Volodymyr Zelensky lauded the military's efforts on social media. "I thank our warriors for liberating our land. The 80th Air Assault, 5th Assault, and the renowned 95th Air Assault brigades, as well as the National Police's "Fury" Assault Brigade," he said in a post on Twitter. "I thank everyone who is standing strong from Kupiansk to the left bank of Kherson!" Ukraine forces went on the offensive in the east in May, ahead of the main counteroffensive at the front line in the south of the country. Ukrainian forces were digging in at their newly established front line following the capture Friday of another village nearby, Sunday's victory, which brings the push northwards and the frontline in the east a step closer to Bakhmut, follows the recapture Friday of the village of Andriivka, less than 2 miles to the south of Klishchiivka. The General Staff of the Armed Forces claimed to have inflicted heavy losses of manpower and equipment on Russian forces in the battle for the village and in fighting off attacks on the Lastochkino and Avdiyvka districts of the region. The Ukrainian military said it was liberating the temporarily occupied territories step by step and consolidating "at the achieved borders." Kyiv has lodged lawsuits with the World Trade Organization (WTO) against Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary after the three countries introduced unilateral bans on imports of Ukrainian agricultural produce, Ukraines Economy Ministry said on Sept. 18. Read also: Bulgarian farmers protest imports of Ukrainian produce Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko stated that it is fundamentally important for Ukraine to prove that individual EU countries cannot ban the import of Ukrainian goods. Therefore, we are filing lawsuits against them in the WTO, she said. At the same time, we hope that these states will lift their restrictions and we won't need to spend a long time settling matters in court. We need solidarity from them and protection for our farmers. The steps we have taken and pressure from the European Commission and other member states will help restore normal trade between Ukraine and neighboring states, and show solidarity between us. According to Svyrydenko, the unilateral ban on the import of Ukrainian agricultural products has already led to losses for Ukrainian exporters. Read also: Zelenskyy, Duda to Meet in New York during UN General Assembly The ministry stated that Ukraine believes that Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary are violating their international obligations and that their unilateral actions are unacceptable. They pointed out that "all member countries of the block should coordinate and agree upon trade policies, as it falls within the exclusive competence of the EU." Read also: Brussels allows Ukraine grain import ban to expire On Sept. 15, the European Commission decided not to extend the ban on importing Ukrainian grains into Poland, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, and Slovakia, provided that Ukraine adheres to certain rules, such as implementing export control measures. After this, Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia announced they would unilaterally continue the ban on importing Ukrainian grains. Besides wheat, rapeseed, sunflower, and corn, Poland has banned the import of groats and flour into the country, while Hungary has expanded the list to 25 items. 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 Air Force announced the threat of missiles and drones in several oblasts late in the evening of 18 September. The ballistic threat was announced twice overnight. Source: Air Force the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Telegram Quote: "Threat of ballistic missiles attacks in Poltava, Kharkiv, Kirovohrad, Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk [oblasts - ed.]!" Details: Earlier, an air-raid warning was announced in Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk oblasts. Local authorities confirmed information on explosions in the city centre of Kharkiv. Updated at 23:49: As of 23:50, the Air Force announced the end of the ballistic missile threat in the oblasts, however, they reported the threat of the Russians using attack UAVs in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. At 00.13: the Air Force announced the threat of the use of ballistic weapons in Poltava, Sumy and Kharkiv oblasts. In addition, the risk of drone attacks in Kirovohrad and Mykolaiv oblasts was also declared. At 00.16: the danger of missile attacks was declared in Donetsk and Kherson oblasts. At 00:26 (Kyiv time), an all-clear was given in oblasts where threats of ballistic missiles were reported earlier. At 00:58 (Kyiv time), there was a threat of Shahed attack UAVs for Kirovohrad and Mykolaiv oblasts. There were several groups of drones, so the Air Force warned neighbouring regions about the threat as well. At 1:07 (Kyiv time), the threat of ballistic missiles was issued again in Kharkiv, Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia, and Donetsk regions. At 1:15 (Kyiv time), the threat of ballistic missile attacks was issued in Kirovohrad and Poltava Oblasts. At 1:37 (Kyiv time), the threat of attack drones was issued in Vinnytsia, Cherkasy, and Odesa oblasts. At 1:54 (Kyiv time), the Air Force gave all-clear of a ballistic missile threat to Kharkiv, Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia, and Donetsk oblasts. At 3:18 (Kyiv time), the missile threat was cancelled, while the media reported explosions in Kryvyi Rih. Air Raid Alert Map of Ukraine as of 1:37 (Kyiv time) 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! Kyrylo Budanov , Chief of Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU), believes that the Russian economy will "hold out" only until 2025 should the war of aggression against Ukraine continue, and the aggressor's arms supply will dry up in 2026 or earlier. Source: Budanov in an interview with The Economist Details: Amid reports that Russia is ready to step up its mobilisation campaign, Budanov noted that manpower is Russia's only clear advantage over Ukraine. "Human resources in Russia are, relatively speaking, unlimited. The quality is low, but the quantity is sufficient," he said. As for the other aspects of the war effort, Budanov believes that Russia's resources are running out and that the time for payback will soon come. He says that the Russian economy will only last until 2025, and the flow of weapons will dry up in 2026, "perhaps earlier." The DIU chief believes that Russian President Vladimir Putin's talks with North Korea clearly indicate his problems. "If everything is fine and Russia has enough resources, why are they looking for them all over the world? The answer is obvious. There is nothing to extract any more," he said. Meanwhile, Budanov acknowledges that Ukraine also runs the risk of running out of its own resources. "We are dependent on external players. Russia is mostly dependent on itself," he said. At the same time, he rejected the idea that support for Ukraine from its partners might soon diminish. Budanov said he had "good intelligence" about political realities in the West. "It is still absolutely undecided how long the West will be able to maintain a sufficient supply of resources to us. Warehouses in Western countries are not completely empty. No matter what anyone says. We can see this very clearly as an intelligence agency," he stated. Background: In the same interview, Budanov said the Ukrainian Defence Forces might be able to sever Russia's land corridor with occupied Crimea before the onset of winter. 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! Oleksii Danilov, Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine, does not exclude that Chechnya leader Ramzan Kadyrov s deteriorating health may be caused by a poisoning. [Chechnya is a federal subject of Russia; the Ukrainian parliament has recognised it as the temporarily Russian-occupied territory of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria ed.] Source: Danilov on the air of the national 24/7 newscast Quote: "Kadyrov having health problems is a widely known fact. Moreover, there is such an assumption that it was a poisoning, and a repeated poisoning, which caused certain complications in his kidney system. As far as we understand with that video thats there I can't say whether this video was recorded yesterday, when he posted it; it could be a completely old video that has nothing to do with today. The fact that Kadyrov was hunted and hunted by Russians is [part of] a notorious struggle of Kremlin power groups. He, given the influence that he had and continues to have on the processes in Russia, found himself in such a situation. How his state of health will hold up in this situation, we shall see. I would not be in a hurry, because a person can be in a coma for a week, a month, a half year or more." Details: Speaking on how the possible death of Kadyrov could affect the domestic political situation in Russia, Danilov noted that this would lead to the weakening of one of the Kremlin groups which are at war with each other [the so-called Kremlin towers ed.]. "As for the Caucasus, certain processes can begin there, which demonstrate that in general the authorities in Russia are extremely fragile, which was proved by Prigozhin's campaign," Danilov added. Background: Lately, information about Kadyrov's severe illness has emerged on Telegram channels. They said he had fallen into a coma and even died. On 17 September, apparently, in order to refute these reports, a video of Kadyrov walking in a park was posted on his Telegram channel. However, where and when this recording was made is unknown. Russian Presidential Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov said that the Kremlin has no information about the illness of Ramzan Kadyrov. However, Alexei Venediktov, former editor-in-chief of the Russian radio station Echo of Moscow, reported that Kadyrov is ill and needs frequent haemodialysis. 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! By Michelle Nichols NEW YORK (Reuters) -Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy met with wounded Ukrainian soldiers at a New York City hospital on Monday, shortly after arriving in the United States to address world leaders at the United Nations. In his first in-person visit to the 193-member world body since Russia's February 2022 invasion of his country, Zelenskiy is due to speak to the annual high-level U.N. General Assembly on Tuesday. "For us it's very important that all our words, all our messages will be heard by our partners," Zelenskiy told reporters during a visit to Staten Island University Hospital, where Ukrainian soldiers have been treated for amputations. "And if in the United Nations still ... there is a place for Russian terrorists, the question not to me I think, it's a question to all the members of the United Nations," he said. Zelenskiy traveled straight to the hospital from the airport after landing in New York on Monday. He honored the wounded soldiers and some hospital staff with medals. Zelenskiy also said he would attend a U.N. Security Council meeting on Ukraine on Wednesday, but was unclear on whether he would remain seated at the 15-member body's horseshoe-shaped table if Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov speaks. "I'm not sure that we will choose the format. I don't know how it will be," he told reporters. Russian U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia last week said the council meeting, convened by Albania as the president for September, would simply be a "big show." After New York, Zelenskiy will travel to Washington, where he is expected to meet with U.S. President Joe Biden and members of Congress. In a post on Telegram, Zelenskiy said he also plans to meet military and business officials. (Reporting by Ron Popeski and Michelle Nichols; editing by Don Durfee, Howard Goller and Grant McCool) Over 35 combat clashes took place during the past day, with Russian forces trying to break through Ukraines defences near Andriivka in Donetsk Oblast, and Ukrainian defenders continuing their assault operations near the newly liberated village of Klishchiivka in Donetsk Oblast. Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook, information as of 06:00 on 18 September Quote: "Ukraine's Defence Forces are conducting defensive actions in Ukraines east and south, carrying out offensive operations on the Melitopol and Bakhmut fronts, crushing the enemy, liberating the temporarily occupied territories step by step, and consolidating their positions." Details: Over 35 combat clashes took place between the Ukrainian and Russian forces during the past day. Russian forces launched 15 missile strikes and over 70 air strikes, as well as 47 attacks from multiple-launch rocket systems on the positions of Ukrainian forces and settlements. In the area of responsibility of the Pivnich Operational Strategic Group, on the Volyn and Polissia fronts, the operational situation remains without significant changes. On the Sivershchyna and Slobozhanshchyna fronts, Russian forces continue to maintain a group of troops covering the state border. They are conducting intense sabotage activities in the border areas in order to prevent the transfer of Ukrainian troops to other fronts, increasing the density of minefields along the state border in Belgorod Oblast. In the area of responsibility of the Khortytsia Operational Strategic Group on the Bakhmut front, the Ukrainian Armed Forces successfully repelled Russian attacks near the settlement of Bila Hora in Donetsk Oblast. Russian forces unsuccessfully tried to break through Ukrainian Armed Forces defences near Andriivka in Donetsk Oblast. Ukraines Defence Forces continue their assault operations near Klishchiivka in Donetsk Oblast, inflicting significant losses on the manpower and equipment of the Russian forces, and consolidating their positions. In the area of responsibility of the Tavriia Operational Strategic Group on the Marinka front, Russian forces conducted unsuccessful offensive operations near Marinka in Donetsk Oblast. Over the day, they carried out 10 unsuccessful attempts to oust our units from their positions. At the same time, on the Avdiivka and Shakhtarsk fronts, Ukraines forces are holding the initiative, putting pressure on the Russians, conducting assault actions and liberating Ukrainian land. On the Melitopol front, Ukrainian soldiers continue their offensive operation, inflicting significant losses on the manpower and equipment of the Russian forces, and forcing the Russians to withdraw from their positions. In the area of responsibility of the Odesa Operational Strategic Group on the Kherson front, Ukrainian defenders continue to wage counter-battery combat, destroying supply depots and successfully hitting the Russian rear. During the past day, the Ukrainian Air Force inflicted nine strikes on areas where Russian personnel and military equipment were concentrated. Units from Rocket Forces and Artillery struck two areas where Russian personnel and military equipment were concentrated, two anti-aircraft systems, 11 artillery systems, three ammunition storage points and a radio-electronic warfare station belonging to the Russians. 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! Roman Kostenko, the Secretary of Ukraines parliamentary Defense Committee, compared the industrial capacities of the United States and Russia to produce artillery shells, in an interview with NV Radio on Sept. 17. Read also: North Korea began supplying Russia with ammunition weeks ago Budanov "According to different reports, Russia has resumed [production] and can produce up to two million rounds of [artillery] ammunition per year; that is a lot," said Kostenko. The MP noted that the United States recently said it plans to produce 100,000 rounds per month by 2025. Russians can do it now. They have restored this [capacity], and it is a big problem for us because Europe and the United States are not ready to produce ammunition in such quantities. Even at the Munich Security Conference, [German Chancellor] Scholz said they were just planning to start their production. And they do it much slower than Russia. Right now, if I'm not mistaken, the United States produces 30,000 rounds of ammunition per month. Read also: Scholz warns against imaginary peace in Ukraine Kostenko also noted that, despite sanctions, Russia has restored its pre-war production levels of Kalibr, Kinzhal, and Kh-55 missiles, and even exceeded them. "The sanctions are working, but poorly: Russia can get these specific items through third parties, third countries, through their special services; this is not a problem for them," the MP said. Read also: Ukraine uses more ammunition every day than France does in a year and Russia uses more He also highlighted that Russia could repair up to 300 tanks a year, up from 200 prior to the war. This is a resource-rich country. Their weaponry isn't as technologically advanced as our partners, he adds. Read also: 18 kamikaze drones and all 17 cruise missiles downed in overnight Russian attack But they are still efficiently waging war with it, as everyone expected the war to be high-tech, with only missiles, drones, remotely controlled tanks. But the war showed that it's not much different from WWII there's just bigger calibers, more destructive weapons, but the methods are largely the same. Highly technological types of weaponry make up about 30 percent [of the total]. 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 Russian troops shelled Avdiivka and the outskirts of Toretsk in Donbas on Sept. 18, killing two people and wounding another, the press service of the Prosecutor General's Office reported on Facebook. According to investigators, at 7.30 a.m., Russian invasion forces shelled the village of Pivnichne near the town of Toretsk, probably with artillery. "A man riding a bicycle was killed by an enemy shell," the prosecutor's office said in a statement. Read also: Russia strikes New York village in Donetsk Oblast, killing four and wounded three Another local was outside during the attack and sustained a shrapnel wound to the chest. Law enforcement also reported that at 11.45 a.m., the Russian military launched an air strike on the front line town of Avdiyivka. "A woman was killed in the yard of her house by a shell hitting the detached housing neighborhood," law enforcement officials said. Read also: Russians attempt offensive on the Bakhmut and Lyman axis, but without success General Staff The shelling destroyed private houses and damaged a car in the settlement. Pre-trial investigations have been initiated in criminal proceedings on violations of the laws and customs of war, under Part 2 of Article 438 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Ukrainian troops have broken through the Russian defensive line on the eastern front, which the enemy was trying to reinforce with all available reserves, Ukraines Military Media Center reported on its Telegram channel on Sept. 18, citing Ukrainian Ground Forces Commander, General Oleksandr Syrskyi. The Russians are trying to resume offensive actions on the Kupyansk and Lyman directions, and are actively preparing for this, Syrskyi said. Fierce fighting is taking place near Bakhmut, he added. The enemy is conducting numerous counterattacks from various directions in an attempt to regain lost ground, after Ukrainian forces liberated Andriyivka and Klishchiyivka, which are vital elements of the Russian defensive line from Bakhmut to Horlivka. "As a result of the successful actions of our troops, we have broken through the enemy's defensive line, which they tried to close by throwing all available reserves into the battle," Syrskyi said. Read also: Ukrainian commander releases ground-level footage showing campaign to retake Andriyivka near Bakhmut Ukrainian forces have defeated and rendered completely combat ineffective some of the best-trained Russian units, including the 72nd Separate Motorized Rifle Brigade, the 31st and 83rd Separate Airborne Assault Brigades, in the Bakhmut front battles, he said. Syrskyi visited the front line and thanked the defenders for Andriyivka and Klishchiyivka liberation and honored the soldiers for their courage and heroism, his Telegram channel says. The Ukrainian military announced on Sept. 17 that Ukrainian forces had liberated the village of Klishchiyivka south of the Russian-occupied ruins of Bakhmut. Ukraines Third Separate Assault Brigade has confirmed its liberation of Andriyivka in Donetsk Oblast, inflicting significant casualties on Russias 72nd Separate Motorized Rifle Brigade in the process, according to a press release on Sep. 15. 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 SINGAPORE, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The non-oil domestic exports (NODX) in Singapore declined by 20.1 percent year on year, marking a contraction for the 11th straight month, government agency Enterprise Singapore announced Monday. In August, non-electronic exports of the city-state declined by 19.9 percent year on year, which worsened from the previous month, while electronic exports fell by 21.1 percent, a smaller contraction than the 26.1 percent recorded in the previous month. Though NODX to Indonesia rose, exports to Singapore's other major markets shrank last month. Shipment to the United States fell 32.4 percent year on year, after the 34.3-percent expansion in the preceding month, becoming the largest contributor to NODX decline. NODX to the European Union members and the Chinese mainland dropped 28.9 percent and 16.4 percent respectively. Singapore's total exports and imports also declined in August. Ukrainian soldiers were seen raising the flag of Ukraine over Andriyivka, Donetsk Oblast, liberated from Russian troops, in the photos and videos posted on the Facebook page of the Third Separate Assault Brigade on Sept. 17. "The Ukrainian flag has been raised over the village of Andriyivka! Recaptured by units of the Third Separate Assault Brigade," the video captions read. The footage shows a first-person view of a Ukrainian serviceman walking through the village, which has been almost completely destroyed by the hostilities. "The Third Assault (Brigade) completely seized the village of Andriyivka. Glory to the nation! Death to the enemies!" comments the narrator of the video. Read also: Ukrainian commander releases ground-level footage showing campaign to retake Andriyivka near Bakhmut The Ukrainian General Staff confirmed on Sept. 15 that the village of Andriyivka had been liberated by Ukrainian forces. Maksym Zhorin, deputy commander of the Third Separate Assault Brigade, said that by capturing back Andriyivka, Ukrainian forces now have full control of a nearby railroad, which is a support line that will allowthe offensive progress. Meanwhile, Ukraine's Defense Ministry reported on Sept. 18 that Russian troops were trying to regain lost ground by attacking Ukrainian positions. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine (Bloomberg) -- The US and its Group of Seven allies see the war in Ukraine lasting for the medium or long term and understand that their planning needs to reflect that timeline, a senior State Department official said Tuesday on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York. Most Read from Bloomberg Read more: US, Allies See War in Ukraine Grinding On, Seek Long-Term Plan Russias invasion of Ukraine is expected to be among key topics, along with climate change, this week at the UN, which has been unable to rein in the war, tarnishing its reputation as a forum to solve global problems. President Joe Biden is scheduled to address the UN on Tuesday morning and meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Washington later this week as he seeks to bolster domestic support in the US for the war effort. Click here for the full schedule of speakers. Essential reading: What to watch for this week: UN Agenda Topped by Ukraine War, Climate Fight, Midtown Gridlock Read The Big Take on global fragmentation: The Global Economy Enters an Era of Upheaval Bloomberg geoeconomist Jennifer Welch breaks down Chinas effort to exert more influence at the UN Read Iain Marlows World Disappointed by the UN Now Looks Elsewhere for Answers. And watch here. (All times are NY) Turkey Seeks to Charm US Investors (8:24 a.m.) Turkeys Finance Minister Mehmet Simsek will meet with bankers in New York in an effort to lure much-needed investment for his nations troubled economy. Simseks mission is critical to allay investors wary of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogans seeming recent embrace of more conventional policies to tighten monetary policy after pursuing unorthodox approaches for years. Simsek will speak at an investment conference co-hosted by Goldman Sachs Group Inc. and the Turkey-US Business Council before Thursdays interest-rate decision. US Sees Chance to Reset Thai Alliance (6:00 a.m.) Thailands recently elected Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is said to be bringing his incoming military chief for security talks with the US. Washington sees the new leader and his government as its best opportunity in two decades to get its alliance with Thailand back on track after ties were strained under the previous military-backed regime. While Srettha is seeking an audience with President Joe Biden, hes indicated that any rapprochement wont come at the expense of China. Lula, Zelenskiy to Meet on UN Sidelines After Tensions (Monday) Presidents Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil and Volodymyr Zelenskiy of Ukraine will hold their first in-person meeting this week in New York in an attempt to bridge differences over Russias invasion and how to end it. The long-awaited encounter will be on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly and comes as the US and other allies have sought to rally nations from the so-called Global South, including Brazil, that have remained skeptical of their efforts to ramp up pressure on Russia. Germany Urges Focus on Russias Criminal War (Monday) German Chancellor Olaf Scholz issued a warning to the world ahead of the UN General Assembly, calling the Ukraine war one of the biggest challenges to the post World War II order. This week will always be about what the Russian president has done with his criminal war of aggression against Ukraine, Scholz told reporters shortly before a speech about UN efforts on a series of ambitions known as the Sustainable Development Goals. We will also insist very concretely that the world community feels committed to its principles. --With assistance from Michael Nienaber, Ana Monteiro and Daniel Carvalho. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. The United Nations World Heritage Committee voted Sunday to list the Tell es-Sultan archaeological site in Jericho as a World Heritage Site in Palestine. The decision was made at a conference held in Riyadh, UNESCO said on its official X account, formerly known as Twitter. The Palestinian Authority welcomed the decision, while Israel expressed ire. The newly designated site, located in Jericho in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, contains ruins dating back to the ninth millennium BCE. Jericho itself is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. The Palestinian Authority Foreign Affairs Ministry welcomed the decision, lauding it as an acknowledgment of Jerichos cultural, economic, and political significance and a testament to 10,000 years of human development, according to a statement published on Sunday. PA Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Rula Maayah underscored the significance of the decision, calling the site an integral and valuable part of diverse Palestinian heritage, according to a statement sent to CNN on Sunday. The outstanding universal value of the site qualifies it to be one of the World Heritage sites, Maayah said. But the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its disapproval of the decision, saying it saw the action as another sign of Palestinians cynical use of UNESCO and politicization of the organization. Located in the Jordan Valley, Jericho is situated between the Jordan River to the east and Jerusalem to the west. In 2010, Jericho celebrated being the oldest walled city in the world, dating back to the modern Stone Age. CNNs Kareem Khadder and Richard Greene reported from Jerusalem. Eyad Kourdi wrote in Gaziantep, Turkey. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Ryazan Oblast of Russia was attacked by a drone A drone attacked a Rosneft oil depot in Russias Ryazan Oblast on Sept. 17, local news outlet Baza reported on Telegram. The attack took place early in the morning on the grounds of the Ryazan Oil Refining Company in the Zheleznodorozhny district. Read also: Drones strike oil facilities in Russias Smolensk Oblast Russian news agencies reported that an airplane-type drone attempted to attack a tank with several thousand tons of gasoline. It allegedly left only a small dent in the tank. The authorities are now investigating where the UAV was launched from. Meanwhile, also on Sept. 17, Russia reported a new attack on the Shaykovka airfield. Read also: Drones strike oil facilities in Russias Smolensk Oblast On the same day, Russian media reported that a drone attacked and damaged an oil depot in Oryol Oblast, in western Russia. During the night of Sept. 16-17, there were also reports of drone attacks on occupied Crimea and Moscow. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine A passenger on the United Airlines flight that plunged more than 28,000 feet recounted the moment she thought she was going to die as the plane descended abruptly. Pilots on the flight were forced to descend almost 30,000 feet within 10 minutes due to cabin pressure issues during a flight from New Jersey to Rome on Wednesday. Tato Lovere, a Jersey City artist, was on Flight 510 with her boyfriend flying to Rome to celebrate her birthday and also meet gallerists. Around 10.07pm she felt a sick feeling overcoming her as the plane started to nosedive, according to flight tracker FlightAware. You saw peoples heads turning, you had people looking at each other, you had people looking for answers without screaming, she told The New York Post. I tried the best I could first to text message my daughter without causing fear, of letting her know I love her very much and I am proud of her, she said. She later learned that while she was in the air, her daughter had been tracking the plane online, seeing in real-time that her mothers plane started to spin in circles over Nova Scotia in Canada. She was on the phone with United asking them about why she saw her mothers flight [was] going in circles over Halifax, Ms Lovere said. United told her everything [was] fine. Meanwhile, on the plane, the 240 passengers and 14 crew members plunged into panic as they started to tilt down only just under four hours into their flight. You literally thought youre going to die, Ms Lovere added. Even before the horrifying plunge, Ms Lovere said that the pilot and flight crew were announcing over the speakers repeatedly, telling passengers the aircraft may have some potential issues. Tato Lovere described the moment she thought she was going to die while onboard the United Airlines flight (Tato Lovere/The New York Post) According to the New York Post, the pilot came on the speakers to say that the plane may make an emergency landing in Halifax, Nova Scotia, but instead, they decided to reroute back to Newark Liberty International Airport, where they just departed from. The Federal Aviation Administration, the governing body that regulates air traffic in the US, said that the plane experienced a pressurisation issue, which forced it to return back to the US. In a video shared by Ms Lovere to the New York Post, a United Airlines pilot told passengers back at the New Jersey airport that there had been a six or eight-inch hole on the side of the airplane, so thats what caused our pressurisation issue. In a statement to The Messenger, a spokesperson for United Airlines said that they returned to the airport to make sure the cabin pressure was not compromised. They said the flight landed safely and there was never any loss of cabin pressure and confirmed there were no injuries. Ms Lovere and her boyfriend, along with other passengers, were booked on the next United Airlines flight out Rome around seven hours later, yet the experience has left her more wary about flying. Im definitely going to be on edge on planes, she said. I probably will be checking every window now, every crack walking by. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. Several Florida schools, including the flagship University of Florida and the small liberal arts college Gov. Ron DeSantis transformed into a conservative institution, fell in the latest national rankings unveiled Monday by U.S. News and World Report. The new standings, tweaked this year by the organization, knocked University of Florida out from its coveted position as a top-five public university a status that has been highly touted by DeSantis and state leaders who have sparked substantial changes recently to Floridas higher education system. Despite some schools dipping in the public rankings, UF improved its overall national standing by one spot and other colleges, such as Florida International University, reached the highest peaks to date. But there was bad news for New College of Florida, which dipped 24 spots to a tie for 100 in the standings for liberal arts schools amid an overhaul triggered by DeSantis appointing conservative trustees to the struggling campus, Floridas smallest state university. Florida officials, in weighing the new standings meant to help students decide where to pursue their degrees, boasted that the state has six schools in the top 100 ranked public colleges. But they didnt mention that several schools dropped in the rankings. The U.S. News and World Report rankings are another endorsement that Florida is leading the nation in higher education, university system Chancellor Ray Rodrigues said in a statement Monday. The 2023-2024 Best Colleges rankings signaled significant shifts for many Florida schools that was prompted at least in part by U.S. News and World Report undergoing the most significant methodological change in the rankings history. This year, the rankings put a heightened emphasis on social mobility and outcomes for graduating college students. That means, according to the organization, more than half of a schools rank now depends on measures tied to success in enrolling and graduating students from all backgrounds with manageable debt and the post-graduate success of students. Additionally, five factors were removed this year: class size, faculty with terminal degrees, alumni giving, high school class standing and the proportion of graduates who borrow federal loans. Florida schools felt these changes in different ways. University of Florida, for one, dropped a spot to No. 6 in public university rankings. University of South Florida fell three spots to 45 while Florida State University also went down three notches to 23. Although the U.S. News rankings are a barometer often praised by Florida leaders, the latest standings have left some school officials questioning how much weight they should have in the future. At FSU, for example, President Richard McCullough characterized the schools drop, after being ranked in the top 20 for four straight years, as odd and part of a rankings chaos in higher education. I think its a wake-up call in terms of the outside worlds dependence on these rankings as a measure of quality, McCullough said in an interview with the Tallahassee Democrat. Similar sentiments have been expressed by UF President Ben Sasse, the former Republican Senator from Nebraska who has scrutinized how much emphasis is put on rankings. Sasse described himself as a moderate on the issue and recently propositioned faculty on what is the north star of things we organize around how UF should measure success if not the standings. There are other rankings outside of U.S. News, such as the Wall Street Journal, which ranked University of Florida as its top public university. I dont think we should defer and outsource our judgements about the most important things to whatever a given thing a rating agency happens to measure, Sasse said last month during an address to UF faculty. Because the rating agencies, say U.S. News and World report, could go bankrupt, or they could change their algorithms. And I dont think we start with an assumption that whatever theyre measuring is exactly the right set of issues. Still, the latest U.S. News rankings show improvement at schools like Florida International University, which rose from 72 to 64, tying the University of Central Florida. Florida A&M University ranked 91, improving by 12 spots to reach the top 100 public university mark for the first time. Florida Atlantic University improved by 20 positions to rank 112. And in the overall ranking of national universities, combining both public and private, University of Florida improved by one spot to reach 28, followed by FSU, which jumped two schools to rank 53. Florida Atlantic University jumped 53 positions and ranked 209 in this category. University leaders credited the DeSantis administration and Florida Legislature for committing state cash for colleges to help them improve in the rankings. The 2023-24 budget includes $100 million specifically for UF, FSU and USF, the states top research schools, and $100 million specifically to recruit and retain faculty a priority of the governor. Deep-sea explorers say they have captured detailed images of three iconic shipwrecks from World War II's Battle of Midway, including the first up-close photos of a Japanese aircraft carrier since it sank during the historic battle in 1942. The Japanese Imperial Navy's Akagi was surveyed along with two other aircraft carriers by a crew aboard the Exploration Vessel Nautilus, according to the nonprofit group Ocean Exploration Trust. The group said that on September 10, a team spent 14 hours surveying Akagi, noting it was "the first time anyone has laid eyes on the vessel since sinking during June 1942's Battle of Midway." The vessel was initially located during a mapping survey in 2019. 127 mm twin anti-aircraft gun mounted below the flight deck of IJN Akagi. / Credit: Ocean Exploration Trust, NOAA The team was also able to conduct the first detailed surveys of the Japanese Imperial Navy's Kaga and the USS Yorktown. The Yorktown was first located 25 years ago during a joint U.S. Navy and National Geographic Society expedition led by Robert Ballard, the founder of Ocean Exploration Trust. The crew used remote-controlled vessels to film the shipwrecks, and over 100 experts from the U.S., Japan and across the globe were connected to ship operations with video technology, "helping guide the mission and providing valuable real-time interpretations throughout the surveys." The strong starboard list of USS Yorktown on the seafloor can be seen in the flight deck, also collapsing towards the starboard side at the bow with an anti-aircraft gun tub below. Photo captured by ROV Atalanta on September 9-10, 2023. / Credit: OCEAN EXPLORATION TRUST, NOAA The expedition team said it completed "non-invasive visual surveys" of the wrecks during three deployments below 5,100 meters. The group said the mission marked the deepest remotely operated vehicle dive that the E/V Nautilus has ever completed. "During over 43 hours at depth, we methodically circumnavigated these historic wrecks, bringing to light many features in great detail, including their armament, battle, and sinking-related damage," Daniel Wagner, the chief scientist for the Ocean Exploration Trust, said in a news release. "Many anti-aircraft guns were still pointing up, providing clues about the final moments on these iconic ships." The American aircraft carrier USS Yorktown takes a hit while being bombed in the Battle of Midway, June 1942. / Credit: CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images Each dive ended with protocol ceremonies to honor all who lost their lives in the battle. More than 3,400 people were killed at Midway, and the vast majority of casualties were Japanese service members, according to the National WWII Museum. About 362 U.S. troops were among the dead. Japan lost four aircraft carriers, one cruiser, and hundreds of aircraft, while the U.S. lost one carrier, one destroyer and 144 aircraft during the battle. One of the large casemate guns on the lower deck of IJN Kaga. The aircraft carrier had originally been built as a battleship, leaving the vessel with multi-generational technologies. Photo recorded by Ocean Exploration Trust's ROV Atalanta on September 10, 2023. / Credit: Ocean Exploration Trust, NOAA Japan had hoped to defeat the U.S. Pacific Fleet, but the U.S. had advance notice of the Midway attack because Navy cryptanalysts had begun breaking Japanese communication codes in early 1942, according to the museum. The pivotal battle set the stage for the Americans' counter-offensive across the Pacific. "On this occasion, we meet on those same Pacific waters in which Japan and the U.S. once met in battle, but this time as allies and fellow researchers," said Embassy of Japan Minister Kosei Nomura. "We are reminded that today's peace and tomorrow's discoveries are built on the sacrifices of war, and so in my view, it is meaningful that Japan and the U.S. are now deepening their cooperation at Midway, utilizing such cutting-edge technology." In May, a shipwreck off the coast of Japan was identified as that of USS Mannert L. Abele, a U.S. Navy destroyer that was sunk by a "human-guided kamikaze bomb" during World War II. Two moms saw a need for adaptive clothes for those with disabilities, so they founded a company Watch: Biden addresses U.N. General Assembly House Democrats send McCarthy letter asking to honor earlier deals in spending bill The News Five American citizens jailed for years in Iran are now en route back to the U.S. as part of a prisoner swap agreement between Tehran and Washington, a senior U.S. government official confirmed to reporters Monday. The U.S. is also imposing new sanctions on Irans ministry of intelligence and Mahmoud Ahmadinejad , Irans former president, the official said. The prisoner swap is based on the transfer of $6 billion of frozen Iranian funds, which were earned from the selling of oil to South Korea and blocked there after a tightening in U.S. sanctions on Iran in 2018. Five Iranians held in the U.S. are set to return to Iran as part of the agreement. Know More U.S. President Joe Biden said his government was working to bring home every American held hostage or wrongfully detained. In a statement, Siamak Namazi, the longest-serving American prisoner in Iran who was freed, said he experienced the worst of humanity while being held in Evin Prison, describing it as a dystopian United Nations of Hostage. Namazi urged Biden to call on world leaders at the UN General Assembly this week to start a game-changing global endeavor to stop hostage-taking and and collectively impose draconian consequences on regimes that do it. The deal between the U.S. and Iran was brokered by Qatar after months of negotiations and comes amid ongoing tensions over Irans nuclear ambitions and human rights record. Sources in Doha told the Associated Press that the funds had reached Qatari bank accounts. As part of the deal, the U.S. allowed for $6 billion in Iranian oil revenue to be transferred from South Korea to an account in Qatar, where Iran will be able to access the funds for humanitarian reasons, senior Biden administration officials said. Five Iranians jailed in the U.S. will also be offered clemency. The individuals were imprisoned for nonviolent crimes, an administration official emphasized. Under criticism from Republicans, the White House has defended the arrangement, saying that the deal was was not a payment or ransom using U.S. taxpayer dollars, and that the U.S. had not lifted a single sanction on Iran. Irans President Ebrahim Raisi told NBC News that his government would spend the money wherever we need it, while a State Department spokesperson told the broadcaster that the U.S. government would be vigilant in monitoring where the money went. Step Back Three of the five freed Americans have been identified. They are Namazi; Emad Sharghi, another businessman; and Morad Tahbaz, an environmentalist who also holds British citizenship. The five Iranians due to be released are Kaveh Afrasiabi, Mehrdad Moein Ansari, Amin Hassanzadeh, Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani, and Kambiz Attar Kashani. SINGAPORE, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The non-oil domestic exports (NODX) in Singapore declined by 20.1 percent year-on-year in August, marking a contraction for the 11th straight month, government agency Enterprise Singapore announced Monday. The figure is lower than the 20.3-percent decline in the previous month, Enterprise Singapore noted, adding that NODX in August fell 3.8 percent month-on-month, compared to the previous 3.5-percent contraction in July. In August, electronic exports contracted by 21.1 percent and non-electronic exports declined by 19.9 percent, according to the government agency. Singapore's total trade contracted in August 2023, both in exports and imports. On a year-on-year basis, the total trade declined by 15.2 percent during this period, following the 20.9 percent contraction in the preceding month. An F-35 that went missing in South Carolina might have flown on autopilot after its pilot ejected. There have been other similarly surprising incidents. In 1970, an aircraft nicknamed the "Cornfield Bomber" pulled off an unmanned landing. It's possible that an F-35 stealth fighter that went missing over South Carolina flew on its own for a time after its pilot ejected. A little more than fifty years ago, the US military encountered a similarly surprising situation with a plane that landed itself and was later nicknamed the "Cornfield Bomber." On Sunday afternoon, Joint Base Charleston posted on Facebook reporting a "mishap involving an F-35B Lightning II jet," which meant the pilot had to eject. The base didn't provide further information on the incident or what caused the ejection, but it did ask for the public's help in locating the jet. Officials haven't confirmed or denied whether the jet crashed, but a Joint Base Charleston spokesperson, Jeremy Huggins, told NBC News the jet was left in autopilot mode when the pilot ejected. This means it could've remained airborne for some time, although authorities were certain the F-35 was down as of midday Monday. The US Marine Corps and Joint Base Charleston didn't immediately respond to requests for comment from Insider on these details. While it's unclear what happened to the missing jet, it wouldn't be the first time a plane has carried on without its pilot. This was also seen in the curious 1989 case of a Soviet MiG-23 that flew more than 500 miles and crashed in NATO territory after its pilot ejected and a separate 50-year-old incident involving a US fighter-interceptor that landed on its own in a farmer's field in Montana after the pilot hopped out. On February 2, 1970, 1st Lt. Gary Foust ejected from a Convair F-106 Delta Dart interceptor aircraft during a training exercise when the jet entered a flat spin. "It remained in that spin as I was going through the maneuvers, the emergency procedures, to recover," Foust said in a National Museum of the US Air Force video in October 2013, "and it did not recover." After Foust ejected, the aircraft nose-dived before stabilizing, then remained airborne for a time while Foust drifted about 8,000 feet above the ground in his parachute. But instead of crashing and leaving a broken plane amid scattered debris and wreckage, the F-106 made an apparently graceful landing in a snowy farmer's field in Montana. "It was about six inches of snow on the ground," Foust said, adding that it had "probably skidded some couple hundred yards or more and came to rest." Shockingly, the F-106 suffered little damage during its belly landing beyond some underside skinning. "I was surprised that that was the case," Foust said. "I assumed it crashed, but the fact that it landed by itself was obviously a shock to everyone." The unusual event earned his aircraft its "Cornfield Bomber" nickname, and shortly after it was taken to McClellan Air Force Base for repairs it returned to service. Since August 1986, it has been on display at the National Museum of the US Air Force. Read the original article on Business Insider A F-35 jet has been lost in South Carolina after a training "mishap," officials said Sunday. The US military is now appealing to the public to help find the missing jet. The pilot of the jet was able to parachute away safely and is in a stable condition, officials said. The US military has asked the public to help find its missing F-35 jet after the pilot had to eject while training over South Carolina on Sunday. In a Facebook post, Joint Base Charleston said it was "responding to a mishap involving an F-35B Lightning II jet from Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT) 501 with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing." "Emergency response teams are still trying to locate the F-35. The public is asked to cooperate with military and civilian authorities as the effort continues," it added. The appeal, posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, encouraged anyone with information to contact its operations center. The F-35, a fifth-generation stealth fighter, is the Pentagon's most expensive weapons system, according to the US Government Accountability Office (GAO). Officials estimated it would cost American taxpayers about $1.7 trillion to "buy, operate, and sustain the aircraft and systems over its lifetime," the GAO reported Details regarding what prompted the training mishap are still under investigation. The pilot, who was not named, was able to parachute safely into North Charleston. He was taken to hospital and is in stable condition. The pilot's wingman safely landed in a separate aircraft, according to local news outlet WCBD. At the time of writing, the search for the jet or its remains has focused on two lakes north of North Charleston, namely Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion, CBS News reported. Nancy Mace, a local congresswoman tweeted on Sunday: "How in the hell do you lose an F-35? How is there not a tracking device and we're asking the public to what, find a jet and turn it in?" Lockheed Martin's high-tech, fifth-generation multi-role stealth aircraft is designed for strike missions and has a top speed of around Mach 1.6, or about 1,228 mph, Insider previously reported. Representatives for Joint Base Charleston did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Insider. Read the original article on Business Insider US military searching for missing F-35 after pilot ejects near Charleston, SC The U.S. military is hunting for an $80 million F-35 fighter jet after a pilot ejected from the military aircraft near Charleston, S.C., on Sunday. Officials at Joint Base Charleston said they were working with a local Marine base to locate an F-35 that was involved in a mishap Sunday afternoon. The pilot ejected safely from the jet and is receiving medical care. If you have any information that may help our recovery teams locate the F-35, please call the Base Defense Operations Center at 843-963-3600, they wrote on X, formerly Twitter. The military is searching for the F-35 north of Joint Base Charleston, near Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion. The incident is raising eyebrows across the country. How in the hell do you lose an F-35? South Carolina Rep. Nancy Mace (R) asked on X. How is there not a tracking device and were asking the public to what, find a jet and turn it in? The missing plane is a F-35B Lightning II jet, a fifth-generation aircraft and one of the most advanced warplanes in the world; it costs roughly $80 million. The aircraft was operating with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, according to Joint Base Charleston, an aviation unit that operates on the East Coast. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. After what the publication has billed as the most significant methodological change in its history, U.S. News & World Report on Monday released its annual Best Colleges rankings giving several North Carolina colleges reason to celebrate. Duke University was named the No. 7 best university nationwide, in a tie with the California Institute of Technology, making it also the highest ranked university in the state. Its Dukes highest rating since 2014, the universitys student newspaper, The Chronicle, reported, and marks an improvement of three spots from a year ago. UNC-Chapel Hill moved up seven spots in the nationwide rankings to No. 22, in a tie with Georgetown University. The university also moved up in U.S. News ranking of public universities, coming in at No. 4 up one spot from a tie for No. 5 last year. U.S. News describes itself as the global authority in education rankings, but its rankings come with controversy. Critics have pointed to the factors and criteria used to calculate the rankings, including a peer assessment, or a measure of how a school is regarded by top administrators at other institutions, which makes up 20% of a schools score. Dozens of law and medical schools, including those at Duke, announced over the past year that they would no longer participate in the rankings of those schools, with leaders generally citing U.S. News algorithm as a key reason for doing so. The rankings rely on flawed survey techniques and opaque and arbitrary formulas, lacking the transparency needed to help applicants make truly informed decisions, Duke law dean Kerry Abrams said in an announcement last November. Still, U.S. News maintains that its rankings are a vital resource for students as they consider which colleges to apply to or attend, Eric Gertler, executive chairman and CEO of U.S. News, said in a news release. This year, the ranking eliminated five factors from its algorithm, instead placing a greater emphasis on social mobility and outcomes for graduating college students. Over half of a universitys ranking is now comprised of factors related to success in enrolling and graduating students from all backgrounds with manageable debt and post-graduate success. The 2024 national rankings include more than 430 public and private colleges and universities, with 16 of those in North Carolina. Curious about how North Carolina colleges stacked up in the 2024 report? Heres a look at the overall rankings, plus rankings for value and public university-specific rankings where applicable. Note: Not all North Carolina colleges and universities were included in the U.S. News national rankings. The information below reflects only the North Carolina schools ranked by the group in its national university rankings. To see rankings for additional colleges in North Carolina, visit usnews.com/best-colleges/nc. Ranked No. 7 nationally Ranked No. 17 for best value Ranked No. 22 nationally Ranked No. 4 for public universities Ranked No. 14 for best value (highest rank for a public university) Ranked No. 47 nationally Ranked No. 64 for best value Wake Forest experienced one of the largest declines in this years nationwide ranking, falling 18 spots, The New York Times reported. Ranked No. 60 nationally Ranked No. 28 for public universities Ranked No. 53 for best value Ranked No. 133 nationally Ranked No. 145 for best value Ranked No. 178 nationally Ranked No. 96 for public universities Ranked No. 164 for best value Ranked No. 195 nationally Ranked No. 106 for public universities Ranked No. 73 for best value Ranked No. 201 nationally Ranked No. 109 for public universities Ranked No. 210 for best value Ranked No. 216 nationally Ranked No. 116 for public universities Ranked No. 206 for best value Ranked No. 227 nationally Ranked No. 123 for public universities Ranked No. 260 nationally Ranked No. 141 for public universities Ranked No. 14 for historically Black colleges and universities Ranked No. 280 nationally Ranked No. 151 for public universities Ranked No. 7 for historically Black colleges and universities A Utah author on trial for her husband's murder after allegedly spiking a Moscow mule with a fatal dose of fentanyl is now accused of witness tampering, according to recently filed court documents. Kouri Richins is specifically accused of concocting a false narrative by requesting that her brother, Ronald Darden, tell defense counsel a specific story in an attempt to link her husband's death to his alleged purchase of drugs. Richins, who authored the book Are You With Me? to help children cope with grief a year after her husbands death, was arrested and charged with killing Eric Richins at their home in Klamas, Utah, southeast of Salt Lake City. Kouri Richins during a status hearing in Park City, Utah, on Sept. 1, 2023. (Rick Bowmer / AP file) Richins was arrested in May on charges of aggravated murder and other crimes. She is in custody at Summit County Jail in Park City, Utah awaiting trial. During a search of the Richins' cell last week, a six-page letter, addressed to her mother, was found inside a book which instructed her to get the authors brother, Ronald, to testify falsely in this matter, per a motion filed Friday by the State of Utah. The motion requested no contact between Richins and her mother and brother. Here is what Im thinking but you have to talk to Ronney, Richins wrote about her brother Ronald. He would probably have to testify to this but its super short not a lot to it. In the letter, Richins writes that the defense counsel intends to link her husband buying drugs and pain pills from Mexico to the fentanyl that caused his death. No such link exists, according to the prosecution. The letter goes on to describe an event that allegedly occurred a year before her husband's death where he told her brother that her husband "gets pain pills and fentanyl from Mexico." The letter also states that Richin's husband told her brother not to tell Richins "because I would get mad because I always said he just gets high every night and won't help take care of the kids." Richins alleges in the letter that this conversation actually occurred. The letter says that her brother can "reword this however he needs to" and instructs her mother to meet him in person to relay this information to him. "Tell him I need him to do this," Richins wrote. The letter also instructs Richins' mother to speak to a few of her friends about what they should mention during an upcoming "Good Morning America" interview. "Please tell Chelsea to bring up that he hasn't been to church in the 13 yrs she has known him," Richins wrote about her husband, Eric. "And Eric would brag to her about how much he drank and did pills in high school." "We're so close to the end, let's push through," Richins wrote. The prosecution says Richins' letter shows that she's "willing to witness tamper through a third party." "To protect the integrity of this proceeding, it is imperative that the Defendant have no contact with Lisa Darden or Ronald Darden while this matter is pending," the document states. "The Defendant's conduct in drafting and hiding the letter establishes her intent to witness tamper. Her reliance on Lisa Darden and Ronald Darden suggests their predisposition to tampering." An attorney for Richins did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Richins was arrested and charged with killing Eric Richins last year during a quiet celebration at their home after she closed on a home for her business, according to authorities. A medical examiner said Eric, 39, had five times the lethal dosage of fentanyl in his system at the time of his death on March 4, 2022. Lawyers for Kouri Richins have denied the allegations, saying in a June court filing that there has not been a single text message or other document turned over in discovery to support the allegation that Eric ever believed Kouri attempted to poison him. The lawyers added there was no substantial evidence to support the charges. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Here in Lexington, Kentucky, Horse Capital of the World, weve had about a decade of unearthed information about Black contributions to the Thoroughbred industry, from the first winning jockeys of the early Kentucky Derby to trainers and owners and everyone in between. But in this history, purposefully erased and forgotten through the years, theres always more to learn, and in this case its the story of the first Black woman jockey. Cheryl White was just 17 when she became licensed as a jockey in Ohio in 1971. She became a household name, was featured on the cover of Jet Magazine, and went on to dominate the Appaloosa and Quarterhorse racing tracks in California. But by the time she died in 2019, her ground-breaking story the first woman to win five races in one day and 750 career wins had slowly faded away. Now Cheryl Whites story will be resurrected in the form of a childrens book, The Jockey & Her Horse, by award-winning New York Times journalist Sarah Maslin Nir and Raymond White Jr., Cheryls brother. Black excellence is often erased from the narrative, Nir said in a recent interview. I think Cheryls no exception. Nir and White will be in Lexington to publicize the book in a series of events on Sept. 19 and 20. The book has already been optioned for two movies. But possibly more important is that Breyer, maker of the famous model horses has created the first real Black doll of White and her horse Jetolara. White grew up around horses because her father was a trainer in Ohio; in 1932, he had a horse run in the Kentucky Derby. Raymond White Jr. was eight and half years younger than Cheryl, and was acutely aware of her fame, even when she didnt particularly care for it. She wasnt a self promoter, Cheryl just wanted to ride, he said. She was tired of the attention, for lack of a better word, tired of being a token. Her story just kind of faded away. The choice to write about Cheryl in a childrens book was a natural choice, White said. I think it was the quickest way to get the story out there, and to reach children, he said. We didnt write this book to have children become jockeys it was to help them learn history and reach for their dreams and goals, whether being an astronaut, or a doctor, or a jockey. It was supposed to be inspirational. White and Nir are excited to come to Lexington, particularly to the East End, which housed many of the first Black jockeys, so they can continue to build the story around Black horsemen and women that was so effectively erased. Cheryl herself didnt know she was part of this rich history, Nir said. She didnt know she was riding on the shoulders of Ansel Williamson and Isaac Murphy. Nir said that many people around the U.S. still have no idea about the storied history of Thoroughbred racing, but hopes the book will change that: Lets take that message to the world. If you go: On Sept. 19, Nir and White will appear at a Meet the Authors event at the Keeneland Library from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Books will be available for purchase for $17. A brief program will be followed by a book signing. Event RSVPs to rferraro@keeneland.com. On Sept. 20: After a trip to William Wells Brown to give out copies of the book, Nir and White will hold a Meet the Authors free event at the Lyric (6-7:30 p.m.) The first 100 attendees under the age of 18 will receive a free copy of The Jockey & Her Horse along with free General Admission passes to Keenelands Fall Meet. People attend a ceremony to commemorate the September 18 Incident at the 9.18 Historical Museum in Shenyang, capital of northeast China's Liaoning Province, Sept. 18, 2023. (Photo by Chen Song/Xinhua) SHENYANG, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- As the sirens howled in Shenyang, capital of northeast China's Liaoning Province on Monday, pedestrians stood in silent tribute and vehicles honked their horns to commemorate the 92nd anniversary of the September 18 Incident that marked the start of Japan's invasion of China. Since 1995, Shenyang has sounded the air-raid alarm every year to commemorate the September 18 Incident. The commemoration has been held across the country on Monday. Many other cities, including Nanjing and Chengdu, also sounded the sirens on this day to remind people to remember history and cherish peace. On Sept. 18, 1931, Japanese troops blew up a section of railway under their control near Shenyang and accused Chinese troops of sabotage as a pretext for the attack. Later that night, they bombarded barracks near Shenyang. The resistance efforts of the Chinese people after the September 18 Incident signaled the beginning of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. "Ninety-two years have passed, and now life is getting better, but we must always remember that we must unite to build a strong country," said Li Weibo, a 91-year-old veteran. At the 9.18 Historical Museum in Shenyang, people from all walks of life gathered and held a ceremony to commemorate the September 18 Incident. The historical data on display at the museum detail the Japanese army's long-brewing plan to invade China. "Every year around Sept. 18, the museum sees a surge in visits, with the number of daily visitors nearing 10,000. People spontaneously come to the museum to recall the history of suffering, remember the martyrs, and perceive their national spirit," said Fan Lihong, curator of the museum. About 3 km from the museum lies the Beidaying (Northern Grand Barracks) site that the Japanese troops bombarded. It officially reopened to visitors as an exhibition hall after renovations at the end of 2021. Through more than 400 historical photos, over 200 relics, electronic maps, scene restorations, panoramic sand tables and other modern techniques, visitors can revisit the history at the exhibition hall. Wang Lei, a resident of Shenyang, who lives near the former site of the Beidaying Site, said, "There were a few ordinary bungalows here, but now the site has been turned into an exhibition hall. It is very important to remember the history of the war. We should let young people know that this is the place where our national calamity occurred." Veterans attend a ceremony to commemorate the September 18 Incident at the 9.18 Historical Museum in Shenyang, capital of northeast China's Liaoning Province, Sept. 18, 2023. (Photo by Chen Song/Xinhua) Students attend a ceremony to commemorate the September 18 Incident at the 9.18 Historical Museum in Shenyang, capital of northeast China's Liaoning Province, Sept. 18, 2023. (Photo by Chen Song/Xinhua) Representatives strike a bell during a ceremony to commemorate the September 18 Incident at the 9.18 Historical Museum in Shenyang, capital of northeast China's Liaoning Province, Sept. 18, 2023. (Photo by Chen Song/Xinhua) People attend a ceremony to commemorate the September 18 Incident at the 9.18 Historical Museum in Shenyang, capital of northeast China's Liaoning Province, Sept. 18, 2023. (Photo by Chen Song/Xinhua) Photo taken on Sept. 18, 2023 shows a ceremony to commemorate the September 18 Incident at the 9.18 Historical Museum in Shenyang, capital of northeast China's Liaoning Province. (Photo by Chen Song/Xinhua) This picture shows destruction in the aftermath of flash flooding caused by Storm Daniel in Libya's eastern port city of Derna on Sept. 17. This picture shows destruction in the aftermath of flash flooding caused by Storm Daniel in Libya's eastern port city of Derna on Sept. 17. Loay Elmagri began to panic when he didnt hear back from his relatives in Derna, Libya. The 36-year-old Libyan architect in Washington, D.C., knew floods destroyed a quarter of the city earlier last week. His maternal aunt was home when storms began early Sunday morning and floodwater gushed into her room. The water levels began to rapidly rise, at one point with her head hitting the ceiling, before she was pulled out of a window. An elderly woman in her early 80s, she told Elmagri that once she was rescued from the home, she had no choice but to walk. She traveled for miles, barefoot in the mud, looking for shelter. Random people on the street gave her towels for warmth. While Elmagris family survived, he said, they were among the lucky ones. When people meet each other, they meet each other with condolences, said Elmagri. The first question they asked is not who died, but who survived. Over the last month, two natural disasters struck Libya and Morocco, killing thousands. In Libya, nearly 20,000 people are feared dead after torrents of water ripped through the eastern part of the country last week. Heavy rain caused by tropical storm Daniel overtook two dams causing them to collapse, sending huge waves of water and sweeping out entire neighborhoods into the Mediterranean Sea. People inspect the damage caused by the earthquake in the village of Tafeghaghte, near Marrakech, Morocco, on Sept. 11, 2023. People inspect the damage caused by the earthquake in the village of Tafeghaghte, near Marrakech, Morocco, on Sept. 11, 2023. In nearby Morocco, more than 2,900 people were killed and tens of thousands more are homeless after a 6.8 earthquake struck the country on Sept. 8, wiping out rural towns in the southwest. Both North African countries are reeling from the natural disasters, pleading for international aid and search and rescue teams as the number of dead continues to rise. Across the globe, families in the U.S. are frantically trying to reach their relatives and loved ones in hopes that they have survived. Jowhar Ali, a Libyan journalist from Derna currently based in Istanbul, told HuffPost that dozens of bodies are being found daily. Our city is the city of culture. The city of poets. The city of theater. The city of art. Thats whats known about the city. Thats the picture that I want to transmit to the world, said Ali. Imagine 10 years from now, whenever you Google the name of our city you will see floods. You will see dead bodies. Alis brother and his sons, age 9 and 10, ventured into the city to see the damage and instead found themselves covering corpses with whatever sheets they could find. A tilted car sits above debris in Libya's eastern city of Derna on Sept. 18, following deadly flash floods. A tilted car sits above debris in Libya's eastern city of Derna on Sept. 18, following deadly flash floods. Imagine youre living in a city like New York, and in a glimpse, in just a few hours, the city is gone. Entire neighborhoods are gone and you cant connect the two parts of the city back together, said Ali. Imagine that you are told again after the disaster that the city cannot be inhabited again. Imagine that the house that you have lived all your life in will not be inhabitable. President Joe Biden sent his deepest condolences in a statement on Tuesday, noting that the U.S. was sending emergency relief to the country. We join the Libyan people in grieving the loss of too many lives cut short, and send our hope to all those missing loved ones, said Biden. Ciaran Donnelly, senior vice president for crisis response recovery and developments at the International Rescue Committee, told HuffPost that the challenges to relief efforts are compounded by Libyas poor infrastructure, political instability and rapid climate change. Its really important to look past the numbers. Think about the people behind the numbers and the people behind the stories, said Donnelly. Every one of those individuals affected behind those numbers of 34,000 people displaced and 5,000 people whove been killed, at least. Those are family members who are grieving. Those are parents, those are children and those are people who on a daily basis are doing their best to survive and provide for themselves and care for each other and are now in dire need of support, he added. Meanwhile in Morocco, dozens of countries have offered assistance including the U.S. but the Moroccan government has been slow to allow international aid to enter the country. Moroccan citizens are frustrated by the governments response, with natives inside and outside the country coordinating their own efforts to assist those affected by the quake. The Moroccan American Recreational and Organizational Council (MAROC), a cultural organization based in New Jersey that provides social services and community events for Moroccan Americans, has partnered with local mosques and charitable organizations to raise funds for those impacted by the earthquake. MAROCs President Yassine Elkaryani, who was born and raised in Morocco, said his family back in Sale felt the earthquake nearly 300 miles away from the epicenter. Terrified, his parents, his sister and her daughter ran out of the house in fear it would collapse. When they returned, they couldnt sleep, worried about a second earthquake. The trauma is there, but that trauma has given everybody the energy to show solidarity to do what everybody can do to help the victims, he said. What makes Morocco and Moroccans unique is the people. Individuals, despite the fact that they dont have money and they dont have much, they are exceptionally generous with other people. Nashwa Lina Khan, a Moroccan American Ph.D. student at York University in Canada who focuses on social reproductive health justice for Moroccan women, says the earthquake has heightened the risks of trafficking and exploitation for girls and vulnerable groups. Theyve always been neglected, and this situation compounds the risk factors in their lives and the marginalization and the poverty and the desperation, said Khan. The Atlas mountains, primarily inhabited by Moroccos indigenous Amazigh population, were some of the hardest-hit areas, wiping out entire villages and communities. Khan said women and girls in these areas face unique challenges accessing resources, seeking shelter and relocating to safety outside of the mountainous regions. While government-issued tents and makeshift hospitals have sprung up in larger towns, the Amazigh living in remote areas rely on donations left on the side of the road, furthering issues of isolation and neglect. Morocco is a really unique place because it lives in peoples minds as a vacation destination, said Khan. Morocco has a mixed population of people who do have means but then theres a population who is precarious and in these moments are very vulnerable. Biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and his wife, Apoorva Ramaswamy, an assistant professor and surgeon, disagree about taking the COVID-19 vaccine a topic that has become a focal point in the 2024 GOP primary race. Apoorva Ramaswamy acknowledged in an interview Sunday with NBC News that she and her husband differ on the matter, saying they take different considerations into account. For my young, healthy husband, thats a different decision than for me when I am taking care of patients who are cancer survivors, and they trust me to be in their airway every day, Apoorva Ramaswamy told the news outlet. Its a very different discussion. And I think giving people that autonomy is the most important part. The most important thing for me as a surgeon, when I think about recommending things to my patients is their autonomy, Apoorva Ramaswamy, who is a laryngologist, said during the interview. This is what we know about this this is what I think are the benefits. And these are what we know are the risks, and this is what we dont know. She said that given her job, at the time, I think I had to do what I had to do in taking the vaccine. Her comments mark a distinction with her husband, who said during an interview on the All-In podcast with David Sacks last month that while he received the COVID-19 vaccines, in hindsight he would not have done so. So I am vaccinated against COVID. Had I had the facts that I do now, as a young thankfully healthy male, I would not have actually chosen to get vaccinated, Vivek Ramaswamy said. I think that Anthony Fauci betrays science by substituting the scientific method which depends on free speech and open debate and inquiry with authority, which is actually fundamentally anti-scientific at its core. And I think one of our main lessons to have learned from the pandemic, and I hope we do learn it in the future, is that it is precisely in times of emergency that free speech becomes most important, the 38-year-old GOP candidate continued. Apoorva Ramaswamy acknowledged that she and husband disagree on things sometimes but said that they are on the same page about the important things. The COVID-19 pandemic including the vaccine, related restrictions and those who sought to manage it have become a focal point in the 2024 GOP primary. Many Republican presidential candidates have lashed out against former White House chief medical adviser Anthony Fauci, who helped steer the nation through the pandemic. Republicans have railed against him for supporting restrictions and mask mandates policies they argue have violated their First Amendment rights. Fauci and medical professionals have argued restrictions were needed to keep the nation from suffering even more deaths. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. We met President Zelenskyy as he prepared to depart Kyiv for the United States. This week, he will speak at the U.N. and meet President Biden. It is a critical time. U.S. officials tell us that over nearly 600 days, almost half a million troops have been killed or woundedboth sides, all togetherpart of the cost, so far, of Vladimir Putin 's unprovoked invasion. We spoke to Zelenskyy on Thursday. He told us that his people are dying every day to prevent World War III. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (translated): We're defending the values of the whole world. And these are Ukrainian people who are paying the highest price. We are truly fighting for our freedom, we are dying we are not fiction, we are not a book. We are fighting for real with a nuclear state that threatens to destroy the world. Scott Pelley: The United States has contributed about $70 billion to your war effort, and I wonder if you expect that level of support to continue? Zelenskyy (translated): The United States of America [is] supporting Ukraine financially and I'm grateful for this. I just think they're not supporting only Ukraine alone. If Ukraine falls, Putin will surely go further. What will the United States of America do when Putin reaches the Baltic states? When he reaches the Polish border? He will. This is a lot of money. We have a lot of gratitude. What else must Ukraine do for everyone to measure our huge gratitude? We are dying in this war. (PAUSE) Look, if Ukraine falls, what will happen in ten years? Just think about it. If [the Russians] reach Poland, what's next? A Third World War? Pelley: What will it take? Another $70 billion? Zelenskyy (translated): I don't have an answer. The whole world [has to] decide whether we want to stop Putin, or whether we want to start the beginning of a world war. We can't change Putin. Russian society has [lost] the respect of the world. They elected him, and re-elected him and raised a second Hitler. They did this. We cannot go back in time. But we can stop it here. Ukraine stopped the Russian advance, but at a terrible cost. Ruined cities, millions of refugees, untold thousands of dead, all for Vladimir Putin's nation-building vanity. Ukraine's Zelenskyy urges the world to stand up to Putin Zelenskyy warns Putin could cause World War III Today the war is fought on a 700-mile front. The red area is the 20% of Ukraine still occupied by Russia. That is where western donated tanks were supposed to punch through cutting the Russian force in half. But trenches, minefields and artillery stopped the armored advance. Now, it's an artillery duel with each side firing about 40,000 shells a day. Ukrainian infantry is advancing bloody yards at a time. It's World War I with drones. Pelley: How would you describe the fighting at the front? Zelenskyy (translated): It's a difficult question. I will be completely honest with you. We have the initiative. This is a plus. We stopped the Russian offensive and we moved into a counter-offensive. [But] despite that, it's not very fast. It is important that we are moving forward every day and liberating territory. Pelley: You have about six weeks of good weather left, and I wonder, after that point will the front be frozen in place? Zelenskyy (translated): We need to liberate our territory as much as possible and move forward, even if it's less than [half a mile or] a hundred [yards] we must do it. we can't lose time. Forget about the weather, and the like. In places that we can't get through in an armored vehicle - let's fly. If we can't fly let's send drones. We mustn't give Putin a break. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy If the front is stationary, Ukrainian drones have vaulted into Russia itself, hitting the Kremlin, warplanes and Moscow high rises. Officially, Ukraine does not acknowledge these attacks. Pelley: The drone strikes in Russia are being done on your orders? Zelenskyy (translated): No. Pelley: Not on your orders? Zelenskyy (translated): Well, you know Pelley: How was it happening? Zelenskyy (translated): You know that we don't shoot at the territory of the Russian Federation. We decided to try the question another way. Pelley: What message is being sent with these drone strikes in Russia? Zelenskyy (translated): You do know that we use our partners' weapons on the territory of Ukraine only. And this is true. But these are not punitive operations, such as they carry out killing civilians. But Russia needs to know that wherever it is, whichever place they use for launching missiles to strike Ukraine, Ukraine has every moral right to send a response to those places. We are responding to them saying: "Your sky is not as well protected, as you think." Last winter, it was Ukrainian skies that were filled with missiles in a Russian bombardment to destroy powerplants. Millions shivered in the dark. With winter approaching again, Zelenskyy had this warning. Zelenskyy (translated): They must know if you cut off our power, deprive us of electricity, deprive us of water, deprive us of gasoline you need to know we have the right to do it [to you]. Russia takes Zelenskyy seriously now because Putin's mass invasion was a fiasco. The red marks where Ukraine stopped Russia's advance last year. It also marks the stain of Russia's war crimes. Pelley: Mr. President, in traveling around Ukraine for the last year and a half we spoke to people in bombed-out schools in Chernihiv, we've seen destroyed apartment blocks in Borodyanka, a bombed hospital in Izium, civilians in a mass grave in Bucha. These are not military targets. What is Vladimir Putin trying to do? Zelenskyy (translated): To break [us]. And by choosing civilian targets, Putin wanted to achieve exactly this to break [us]. this person who has made his way with such bloody actions, with everything he has said, cannot be trusted. There is no trust in such a person because he has not been a human being for a long time. Pelley: The Russians have suffered grievous losses without resorting to nuclear weapons, and I wonder if you believe that the threat of nuclear war is now behind us. Zelenskyy (translated): I think he's going to continue threatening. He is waiting for the United States to become less stable. He thinks that's going to happen during the U.S. election. He will be looking for instability in Europe and the United States of America. He will use the risk of using nuclear weapons to fuel that [instability]. He will keep on threatening. That U.S. election he mentioned worries him. His negotiations with President Biden have been contentious at times. But Zelenskyy tends to get what he asks for, even if, in Zelenskyy's opinion, it's generally, six months too late. This week, Zelenskyy will press Mr. Biden for missiles with longer range. Congress is debating another 24 billion dollar package. Zelenskyy (translated): And if Ukraine had enough of these modern systems, we would have already restored the territorial integrity of Ukraine. We would have already done that. These systems exist. Zelenskyy with correspondent Scott Pelley We first met Zelenskyy not long after the invasion when his office was a blacked-out bunker. Now a year and a half later, we noticed a difference. As we were setting up the interview, the former actor used his talent to mask the strain. He smiled at a compliment to his wife. And then, instantly, he seemed pulled beneath a depth no one can know. We don't know what he was thinking, it looked like empathy for the lost and for those who might be saved. Our time with Zelenskyy began in silence--a remembrance of the fallen during a ceremony to award medals of valor. Ukrainian officials tell us Ukraine and Russia have lost their professional armies. Now the forces are made up of volunteers, draftees, and, in Russia's case, prison inmates. Zelenskyy counts his dead in casualty reports each morning. Pelley: You are the President, but it must be humbling to meet those men. I wonder what they mean to you? Zelenskyy (translated): First of all, it is a great honor for me. I look into their eyes and it makes me proud that we have such strong people because this is a big risk, a big risk, you can definitely lose your life for the sake of [saving] other lives. [And] when I say, "other lives", I don't speak in general, I mean my own life, [the] lives of my children and I understand completely what risks are involved. That empathy for life has Volodymyr Zelenskyy reaching out, again, to the United Nations and the United States hoping to convince the allies that the world can be safe only when Ukraine is whole. Pelley: Can you give up any part of Ukraine for peace? Zelenskyy (translated): No. This is our territory. Pelley: You must have it all? Including Crimea? Zelenskyy (translated): Today you and I you said it to me you saw me awarding people [medals]. [Well] today is a day like that. A week ago, I gave awards to parents [of soldiers who have been killed]. There were 24 families of the dead. There was a woman. She was with three children. There were parents, very old. They could barely walk and they had had only one son. One of the women was pregnant. She arrived holding a baby in her arms. And she was pregnant. And that baby will never see what should I tell them? That all of them died so that we could say, "It's okay, [Russia] you can take it all." It's a difficult job. You understand me, right? Giving awards to people whose faces show their whole world has collapsed. And all I can give them, all I can give them is victory. Produced by Maria Gavrilovic. Associate producer, Alex Ortiz. Broadcast associate, Michelle Karim. Edited by Peter M. Berman. Netanyahus push to weaken Israels Supreme Court divides nation | 60 Minutes Ukrainian President Zelenskyy warns of another World War unless unified steps are taken against Putin 60 Minutes travels to Israel to report on historic protests Capt. Eleanor Ellie Cooke, formerly LeBeau, is shown with the dance team at Murray State University, left to right, as a U.S. Marine Corps pilot and at her wedding to fellow Marine Chase Cooke. (Provided) The Belleville family of Capt. Eleanor Ellie Cooke, formerly LeBeau, one of three U.S. Marines killed in the crash of a hybrid military aircraft last month in Australia, has published her obituary and announced her funeral arrangements. Plans call for visitation from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home in Belleville and a funeral service at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at St. Peters Cathedral Catholic Church with Monsignor Jack McEvilly officiating. Burial with full military honors will take place at Mount Carmel Catholic Cemetery. Volunteers with a nonprofit group will line Belleville streets on the procession route with 1,000 American flags. We give the community a way to pay honor to a fallen hero in their hometown, said Jeff Hastings, president and CEO of The Flagmans Mission Continues, based in OFallon. The group organizes flag displays in conjunction with the funerals of more than 40 active-duty military personnel killed in the line of duty each year, covering a 400-mile radius. In Cookes case, Hastings is asking volunteers to show up at 4 p.m. Thursday for set-up and 1 p.m. Sunday for take-down in the parking lot east of St. Peters. Organizers will distribute flags and give instructions. If you can carry 5 pounds and walk, you can help, Hastings said. The set-up and take-down are expected to last about three and a half hours each. Youth groups are welcome, but organizers prefer that volunteers be at least 11 years old. A dozen pick-up trucks also are needed to haul flags. Gloves and walking shoes are encouraged. Zeal and commitment The funeral home published an obituary for Cooke, 29, formerly of Belleville, on its website Sept. 1 but later removed it at the familys request. It was republished last week, according to Funeral Director Jenna Renner Graser. The obituary describes Cooke as the much-anticipated fifth child out of David and Victoria LeBeaus eight children and someone who brought joy, exuberance, and an abundance of love into the world. The excitement and enthusiasm she lived every day was present from the first day of kindergarten at Blessed Sacrament to her time at Althoff Catholic High School and as a dancer at Murray State, according to the obituary. Ellie, who called herself a bad ass, joined the U.S. Marine Corps as a pilot with the same zeal and commitment she gave to everything. It was in the Marines that she found her soulmate in Chase Cooke, who shared the same excitement for life as Ellie. Cooke and LeBeau were married at St. Anthony Catholic Church in St. Louis. Both were military pilots. Ellie will be loved and remembered with the same fervor and joy with which she loved us all, the obituary states. As people often commented, There was just something about Ellie. Routine training An MV-22B Osprey crashed about 9:30 a.m. Aug. 27 on Melville Island, north of Darwin, in Australias Northern Territory while transporting troops during a routine training exercise, according to a Marine Corps news release last month. The area was later described in Associated Press reports as a tropical forest. There were a total of 23 people aboard the Osprey, which could take off and land like a helicopter but function like a turboprop airplane in flight. Twenty people were taken to the hospital. The Marines aboard the aircraft were flying in support of Exercise Predators Run, the news release stated. Recovery efforts are ongoing. The cause of the incident is under investigation. Marine Corps representatives went to the LeBeau home in Belleville to notify the family of Ellie Cookes death. She was one of the aircrafts two pilots, her mother told the BND last month. Were very proud of her, and by giving her life, she saved 20 other people, Victoria LeBeau said. The three Marines killed in the crash were identified publicly on Aug. 28. Besides Cooke, the other two were Cpl. Spencer R. Collart, 21, of Arlington, Virginia, and Maj. Tobin J. Lewis, 37, of Jefferson, Colorado. On Friday, a representative of the U.S. Marines Communication Directorate in Washington, D.C., said the military hasnt released any further information on the investigation. Love for Australia Cooke, who used her her maiden name in the military, was commissioned in the Marine Corps on Aug. 11, 2018, and promoted to captain on March 1, according to a news release. The release provided the following biographical information: She served in Pensacola, FL, Corpus Christi, TX, and Jacksonville, NC, before arriving at Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay, HI. Capt LeBeau, an MV-22B pilot, received the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. In the days following the crash, the Australian Broadcasting Corp. and other Australian media reported that Cooke was being heralded for actions that minimized the loss of life. We are so grateful for all the outpouring of love from Australia, the vigils, and the prayers and the kindness, Victoria LeBeau told the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper. All Ellie ever said when she was in Australia was how much she loved being there. Its so important for us that the Australian people know how much we appreciate the respect and (honor) that you have shown her through all this. Dignified transfer According to a U.S. Air Force website, the bodies of service members killed in action are typically flown to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware. Each is given a dignified transfer from the aircraft, with members of his or her branch of service escorting a flag-draped container to the base mortuary, where the body is formally identified and prepared for burial. In Ellie Cookes obituary, her family asks that people continue to lift Chase up in prayers, love and support in lieu of sending flowers. Those who want to do more are encouraged to make memorial donations to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, 875 North Randolph Street, Suite 225, Arlington, VA 22203 or online at https://www.nmcrs.org/. Condolences also can be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com. In 2022, then-county corrections director Mark Flowers alleged that there had been "malicious and abusive behavior" toward inmates at the Volusia County Branch Jail. Flowers alleged that officers beat a jail inmate in 2022. A Florida Department of Law Enforcement investigation and a state attorney's office review led to no charges being filed against the officers involved. An internal affairs report about the incident said that surveillance video from stationary cameras inside the jail didn't show what happened inside the cell where the confrontation took place. Flowers was fired by the county and filed a whistleblower's lawsuit which is ongoing. If corrections officers had been wearing body cameras, perhaps that whole controversy would have been averted. Starting in August, guards and other workers began wearing them. Despite the timing, Volusia County Public Protection Director Mark Swanson said the decision to add the cameras had nothing to do with Flowers and was really about transparency. "It protects the officers, and it protects the inmates," he said. From the lowest to the highest The county's corrections officers, from the lowest to highest ranking, started using body-worn cameras on Aug. 21, Corrections Director Joseph DeMore said. The county's body-worn camera policy is directed at capturing incidents of use-of-force and other incidents such as restraining inmates with certain equipment, using a Taser and other tools to subdue inmates, moving inmates to secure holding areas, and other situations. Volusia is one of the only county governments in the area to equip its jail facilities with body cameras. The county manages inmates in two facilities off International Speedway Boulevard, the Volusia County Correctional Facility at 1354 N. Indian Lake Road and the Volusia County Branch Jail at 1300 Red John Road. DeMore, who also wears a body camera, said he thinks one measurement of success for the program will be tracking use-of-force incidents to see if there will be a decrease. "But, again, the transparency piece is the big piece for us," he said. Swanson said body camera videos will be released to the public, though some portions of videos might have to be cut because of security issues or other concerns. Body camera policy County government and corrections union officials signed off on the body camera policy for the jail in August. The policy says that body cameras "will be utilized to capture interactions with non-compliant inmates and uses of force as they occur." Officers are expected to turn on the cameras for a range of circumstances covered in the policy. Those include, among other things, responding to a code, moving inmates to a special holding area, being involved in an incident that could lead to the use of force on an inmate, conducting interviews about fights or inmate injuries, restraining an inmate with certain equipment or being part of an incident that involves securing an inmate and using a Taser or PepperBall projectile device. If a spontaneous incident happens, officers should turn on the camera as soon as possible. Officials will preserve recordings of any incident that leads to "any form of documentation," according to the policy. The policy, which went into effect on Aug. 15, has a 60-day grace period where there won't be discipline for officers unless there is "egregious or intentional behavior." County officials didn't immediately have details about the cost. This year the Volusia County Council approved spending about $747,122 total over five years to Axon Enterprises for the body camera system. Jail staffing at critical level? Volusia corrections officer says staffing is dangerously low, county disagrees Flagler County also implements body cameras Almost all surrounding county jails those in Brevard, Lake, Marion, Orange, Putnam and Seminole counties don't have body cameras in their jail facilities, according to their media representatives. But Flagler County's jail recently started using body cameras, Flagler County Sheriff's Office spokeswoman Ava Hanner said. While body cameras are popular among patrol officers, they're still "quite new" in the corrections world, said Thomas Baker, an associate professor in the University of Central Florida's Department of Criminal Justice. Baker's expertise includes corrections matters and justice policies. He said some agencies are rolling it out hoping to see reductions in use-of-force incidents and other benefits, but it hasn't been "well evaluated for its effectiveness" in jail settings. "One of the hopes of using body-worn cameras in corrections is to reduce any officer-on-inmate incident that can occur, but if you can choose not to turn your camera on, then that evidence doesn't exist," he said. He also said there can be privacy concerns with cameras in a jail setting. Volusia County's policy says that if an officer fails to turn on a camera, intentionally blocks the camera, or prematurely ends the recording during a reportable incident, he or she will have to submit a report explaining why. Bakers said overall he thinks the idea of having body-worn cameras in the corrections setting is promising. "Any time you want to engage in something that could potentially reduce injuries and protect both your officers and people inside the facility, you know, I think it's good," Baker said. "But at the same time any of these programs that get rolled out, you know, I would hope that it's being evaluated to actually look at whether or not it's having the intended effect." This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Volusia, Flagler County jails add body cameras Voters are divided over the GOP push to launch an impeachment inquiry into President Biden, according to a poll. A Harvard University CAPS/Harris poll found voters are evenly split 50-50 on whether the inquiry raises legitimate questions into Bidens conduct or is mostly politically motivated. Responses were sharply divided on party lines, with three-quarters of Republicans saying it is legitimate and almost the same amount of Democrats saying it is politically motivated. A slight majority of independents, 54 percent, said the inquiry was mostly fueled by politics. But the poll also found a slight majority of 53 percent support House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) opening the inquiry. The push for the Biden inquiry tends to split along partisan lines though most voters are concerned that Joe Biden may have crossed the line in helping his sons business, said Mark Penn, the co-director of the Harvard CAPS/Harris poll. McCarthy directed House committees to launch a formal inquiry into Biden last week after months of calls from members of his conference to do so. The House Oversight and Accountability Committee has been investigating the business dealings of the presidents son, Hunter Biden , and whether the president was involved in any way. Republicans have specifically zeroed in on Hunter Bidens position as a board member for the Ukrainian gas company Burisma while his father was serving as vice president in the Obama administration. They have made unverified allegations that the then-vice president accepted a bribe for helping to remove a Ukrainian prosecutor who was investigating the company. The House committee has not found evidence that the president directly benefited financially from his sons business dealings or that he made any policy decisions because of them. The House investigations have also been looking into whether the probe into Hunter Biden was slow walked, to which two IRS agents have testified. The White House and Justice Department have said that they have not had involvement in the investigation by U.S. Attorney David Weiss into Hunter Biden, who was indicted on three federal gun-related charges. Pollsters found a majority of respondents said they believe the president had some involvement in Hunter Bidens business dealings, with 57 percent saying they believe he was helping his son get business contracts. Additionally, 6 in 10 said Biden had direct and detailed knowledge of his sons dealings and that he has made false or misleading statements about his sons business dealings and what he knew about them. The poll also showed voters are evenly split on whether the prosecutions of former President Trump are legitimate or political. The Harvard CAPS/Harris Poll survey was conducted Sept. 13-14 and surveyed 2,103 registered voters. It is a collaboration of the Center for American Political Studies at Harvard University and the Harris Poll. The survey is an online sample drawn from the Harris Panel and weighted to reflect known demographics. As a representative online sample, it does not report a probability confidence interval. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. On his final trip to the Central African Republic (CAR) last month, the former Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin visited la Maison Russe, or the Russian House, a cultural center near the Russian embassy in the capital, where he posed for selfies with his lieutenants and locals. The institute, and its diverse activities, are stark examples of how the mercenary group has become a stand-in for the Russian state in the country, and a symbol of the challenges ahead for President Vladimir Putin as he tries to pull back control. The Russian flag flying outside la Maison Russe, or the Russian House, a cultural center in Bangui. - CNN Since Prigozhins attempted coup in June and subsequent death in a plane crash outside Moscow just two months later, Russia has been engaged in a high-stakes scramble to centralize his empire on the African continent, which includes thousands of fighters, a vast array of business holdings and multiple soft power initiatives such as this one. As the Kremlin tries to get its arms around Wagners sprawling commercial network, whats next for the group remains unclear. But signs of what the future may hold in the CAR, one of the organizations first client states and its laboratory on the continent, are beginning to emerge in Bangui. Here Russia appears to be consolidating Wagners operations while continuing to exert its influence. The message that Moscow wants to project seems to be: its business as usual. Russias dominance is visible everywhere. At roadside bars, locals sip Africa Ti LOr beer and Wa-Na-Wa vodka manufactured by a company linked to Wagner. Meanwhile, Russian-donated fighter jets whistle on sorties overhead. At the cultural center, a Russian tricolor flag flutters above. Outside, a carousel topped with an onion dome spins in the courtyard. The Maison Russe is the nerve center of all of Wagners activities in the Central African Republic, Nathalia Dukhan, a senior investigator at The Sentry, a US nonprofit that has monitored Wagner across the country, told CNN. According to The Sentry, the center is home to a diverse range of operations linked to Wagners business endeavors the group uses it to sell its gold and diamonds and entertain VIPs. It runs events designed to spread Russian culture while promoting a pro-Moscow perception of international relations, Dukhan said. Mercenaries from the Wagner group have operated in the CAR since at least 2018, protecting President Faustin-Archange Touadera and training army recruits. Wagner troops have fought rebels in the countrys civil conflict, which has lasted for more than a decade, while extending Russias reach in the mineral-rich nation. Wagner has secured a series of generous mining concessions in the country to prospect for diamonds and gold, and is heavily involved in the timber industry. Masked Wagner mercenaries outside a grocery store in the capital. - CNN All Eyes on Wagner, an open-source initiative tracking the group, said that the Russian House is incorporated as a business in Bangui yet has no links to the Rossotrudnichestvo agency, which is the Russian state agency coordinating cultural institutes worldwide. Maison Russe is a prime example of how the Wagner group has been a substitute to the Russian state, All Eyes on Wagner told CNN. It added that it serves both Wagner and Russias interests: Promoting Wagners beers through exclusive events, projecting Wagner films, hosting Prigozhin and inviting Russian MoD delegations to give lectures on Russian-CAR military cooperation. The center has long been headed up by Dmitry Syty, a former Prigozhin deputy who has played a leading role in the CAR for Wagner, according to the European Council. But Syty, who is sanctioned by the European Union and United States for serious human rights abuses, and survived an assassination attempt in December 2022, may have been replaced. Local media recently reported that a new director had taken over at the Russian House, referring to her as Nafisa. She was pictured in the photographs of Prigozhin on his final visit to the CAR but there is no evidence of her having any affiliation with Wagner before April. Access to the Russian House is extremely restricted. No Western journalists have been granted access, and CNNs requests to film at the center were repeatedly rebuffed by the supposedly new director. When a CNN team visited the site using a hidden camera, she introduced herself as Nafisa Kiryanova. Anfisa Alexandrovna Kiryanova (right) appears in the background of a photo of Prigozhin outside the Russian House last month. - All Eyes on Wagner/Twitter Drawing on social media accounts and other linked profiles, CNN has discovered that she also goes by another name: Anfisa Alexandrovna Kiryanova. A YouTube channel linked to Kiryanova reveals that as recently as nine months ago she was sharing video reviews of cosmetics. On a resume shared online, she claims to have worked as a translator and attended the Sorbonne in Paris and Moscow State Linguistic University. Dressed in local clothing and silver high heels, she gave CNN a brief tour of the institute. In three tents outside the center, Russian language classes were taking place, while Russian movies were being screened in a cinema room. A masked man, who appeared to be a Wagner mercenary, walked past the tents to a parking lot behind. Kiryanova would not confirm who he was or show CNN the restricted area where he was headed. When CNN pushed Kiryanova about her appearance in the background of photographs taken of Prigozhin at the center, she was evasive, asking: Oh my God, can you show me that? After being shown the pictures, she begrudgingly conceded: Okay, yeah, thats good. Speaking about Prigozhins visit and the future of Wagner in the CAR, Kiryanova said that his death meant nothing for Russias mission in the country. Does it change anything if, I dont know, the president of your country dies? Does it mean that your country ceases to exist? The mission continues to be, the Russian cultural mission continues to be, she said. Asked who oversaw the center now, Kiryanova said Syty was responsible for the head of the whole mission and he runs some other directions. Syty and Wagners security adviser to President Touadera, Vitali Perfilev, who is also sanctioned by the US and European Union, are among Wagners old guard still on the ground in the CAR as of late last week. A diplomatic official speaking to CNN on the condition of anonymity said that the two men had gone back to Moscow and returned, suggesting they had signed new contracts with Russias Ministry of Defence. Both have retreated into the shadows in recent months and refused CNNs repeated requests for interviews. The diplomatic official said Wagner made a lasting mark on the CAR with only about 1,000 mercenaries on the ground. Now, Russia is embarking on a concerted reorganization, with an attempt to lower Wagners operating costs in the CAR, the official said. That effort is two pronged: to force fighters to sign new contracts and pull them back to concentrate control in major population centers. In July and August, Ilyushin IL-76 transport planes were rotating weekly to take fighters back to Moscow to sign contracts, the official said, adding that an estimated 150 have not returned. There are obvious signs of a reconcentration of troops across the capital. Wagner mercenaries drive around Bangui in unmarked pickup trucks painted a green or sand color. They are out on the streets and shop at grocery stores, clad in balaclavas to pick up cookies, bananas, and bottles of Coca-Cola. Wagner protocol dictates they must always cover their faces even in situations such as browsing for shoes at a flea market. Despite the failed Wagner mutiny and Prigozhins subsequent death thousands of miles to the north, little has changed for the CARs relationship with Russia, according to Fidele Gouandjika, a senior adviser to President Touadera. CNN met with Gouandjika at his mansion in the capital. Tall and greying, he wore a T-shirt emblazoned with the message Je suis Wagner I am Wagner, in French claiming it was given to him by Prigozhin himself. He was my friend, he was my best friend in front of all central African people, he said of the late mercenary boss. Fidele Gouandjika, a senior adviser to President Touadera, outside his mansion in Bangui. - Sebastian Shukla/CNN The Russians gave us peace, he said, adding: we are very glad that Mr. Yevgeny Prigozhin in little time, one year, pushed out the rebels, and our country is occupied by our army 100%. Gouandjika claimed that Putin spoke to Touadera recently and reassured him that: Everything will be like yesterday. It will be better tomorrow and after tomorrow. So we have no regrets. CNNs Gianluca Mezzofiore contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Wake County and a California-based nonprofit will join forces to convert two hotels into affordable housing for people experiencing long-term homelessness. The only solution to homelessness, particularly for those whove been on the street for a long time is to give them a home with the support services, said Tod Lipka, president and CEO of the nonprofit Step Up. This model works. So our intention is to make a significant positive impact on chronic homelessness in Wake County, with this project. Step Up will buy the hotels with Wake County providing vouchers to cover the rent for the people who stay there. The names and locations of the hotels have not been released. I cant talk about particular projects because we are still negotiating, but our model is to convert motels, rundown motels, and convert the motel unit into a studio apartment by doing a complete refresh on the site and adding a kitchenette, Lipka said. The news was announced at the Clinton Global Initiative annual meeting in New York City by Lorena McDowell, Wake Countys director of Affordable Housing and Community Revitalization. I was deeply honored to represent Wake County today alongside so many leaders who are working to do good in their communities, McDowell said Monday in a news release. This recognition reflects the incredible progress were making to provide affordable housing to those in need. Step Up has already bought a hotel in Asheville and is negotiating for one in Greensboro, Lipka said. The nonprofit wants to create 500 affordable housing units within the next two years in North Carolina, including about 160 units in Raleigh. About 97% of people who find housing at a Step Up property are still housed a year later, he said. Many people think that people who have been on the street for a long time dont want housing, Lipka said. But that is really not true. Its because they developed a hard exterior to years of disappointment about not getting the single most important thing to solve their problem, which is a home. Tod Lipka is the CEO of Step Up. How many are homeless in Wake County? There are more than 1,500 people who are homeless in Wake County, according to a federally required count. Low-cost hotels can be an alternative for unsheltered people, but they can also be dangerous places to live. In July, The News & Observer reported the Wake Inn off New Bern Avenue had generated 832 calls for police this year, and that nearly 150 overdoses had been reported at the hotel since 2019, including 34 this year. Step Up provides supportive services, including live-in property managers and case managers, to people living in the converted hotels. People need help making a transition from unlearning survival skills that helped them when they lived on the street, Lipka said. We had one tenant who would scream at the top of his lungs at 2 and 3 in the morning when he was in housing, he said. That was disturbing to his neighbors. But he did that because that was a habit he learned on the street. If you do that at 2:30 in the morning people stay away from you and you stay safe. It was a creative mechanism for staying safe when youre sleeping outdoors. He needed help understanding he would now be safe by locking his doors, Lipka said. Do you vote in Broward County? Speak more than one language? Looking for a short-term job? The Broward Supervisor of Elections is hiring. The office is looking for bilingual (English and Spanish or Creole) people to work on three different election days next year. The salaries range from $175 to $350 for the day and others pay $12 to $18 per hour. Heres what to know: Job requirements To become an Election Day worker in Broward, you must: Be a registered voter in Broward (for most positions) Fill out an Election Day Workers application. Attend a minimum of four hours of training. Be 16 or older. Have reliable transportation. Arrive at 5:30 on election morning and work until polls close at 7 p.m. Poll worker volunteers in Broward County can earn up to $350 for each Election Day. Poll worker jobs The Broward supervisor of elections is hiring for 11 positions: Clerk: $350 for the day The clerk, a supervisory position, manages overall tasks, activities and the poll workers in the polling place. The clerk also visits the assigned precinct the day before the election to setup the precinct with the Voting System Technician and verifies all supplies have been delivered. On Election Night, the clerk returns Election Day materials to an assigned regional site. Assistant clerk: $230 for the day The assistant clerk assists the clerk and shares their duties as needed and may substitute for the clerk if they are unable to serve. The assistant clerk also assists voters who need a provisional ballot. EPB operator: $220 for the day The EPB operator confirms voter eligibility in the Electronic Poll Book at the check-in table and issues voting passes to eligible voters. Ballot inspector: $205 for the day The ballot inspector collects voting pass from each voter and issues appropriate ballot according to the ballot style on the voting pass. The inspector also issues voter a replacement ballot when errors are made by the voters. Voting system technician: $325 to $340 for the day The VST sets up the precinct the day before the election with the clerk; provides technical support to the voters on the Optical Scanner in the precinct or with the ExpressVote (ADA unit) on Election Day; and returns equipment and materials to the voting equipment center on Election Night. Backup voting system technician: $275 for the day The backup VST sets up the precinct the day before the election with the clerk; provides technical support to the voters on the Optical Scanner in the precinct or with the ExpressVote (ADA unit) on Election Day. Early voting poll worker: $12 to $18 per hour The early voting poll workers perform overall tasks of an early voting site for two weeks prior to the election. They also set up and break down sites, verify voters eligibility using the EViD (Electronic Voter IDentification Pollbook) and issues ballots to the voters. Poll deputy: $200 for the day The poll deputy maintains order outside the polling place. The deputy also posts signs and notices, monitors the No Solicitation Zone and stands at end of line at 7 p.m. to signify end of the voting day. Truck drivers and helpers: $175-$200 for the day Drivers and helpers for election night equipment and supplies pickup. Call center operator: $205 The call center operator is responsible for answering calls from polling places and the public on Election Day, responding to inquiries and resolving issues. People applying for this position dont have to be registered to vote in Broward. Warehouse staff: $18 per hour These workers assist with the Election Day preparation process. They also assist with packing, staging, shipping and/or receiving equipment and supplies. The total payment next to each position includes payment for training. Training is not paid if you do not work on Election Day. Workers will be paid via the money transfer application Zelle. Election days Applicants must be available to work during these dates: Presidential Primary Election: March 19, 2024. Primary Election: Aug. 20, 2024. General Election: Nov. 5, 2024. Bilingual Election Day workers needed! Must be able to speak both languagesSpanish/English or Creole/English fluently. Visit https://t.co/VPBsyfoaRX for more information pic.twitter.com/axN1suvBd8 Broward SOE (@BrowardVotes) September 17, 2023 How to apply To apply for any of these jobs, fill out the Election Day worker form at browardvotes.gov/Poll-Worker-Information/Become-a-Poll-Worker. Upon acceptance, you will be scheduled to attend a training session, and then you will then be an eligible worker for future elections. GAZA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Israeli authorities closed the only pedestrian crossing to the Gaza Strip, the Erez Crossing, on Monday, preventing Gazan workers from reaching their workplaces in Israeli cities. Ghassan Alyan, coordinator of Israeli government activities in the Palestinian territories, said in a press statement that the closure will "last for 24 hours" and "the Erez Crossing will be reopened after evaluating the security situation in the coastal enclave." Meanwhile, a Palestinian source told Xinhua that the Israeli side closed the crossing "as a punishment to Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), the ruler of Gaza, over the latest violent protests in the eastern parts of the coastal enclave." The Israeli move came after hundreds of Palestinians in Gaza demonstrated near the border and clashed with Israeli soldiers stationed there. The demonstrations took place on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, as the protesters threw stones and some homemade explosive devices at the Israeli soldiers. In a bid to disperse the protesters, the Israeli army fired live bullets and tear gas, wounding some of the "rioters," according to the Israeli army. During the protests that took place on Wednesday, at least five Palestinians were killed, while they were trying to throw an explosive device at the Israeli soldiers. According to official Palestinian and Israeli statistics, about 18,000 Palestinian workers from Gaza work in various Israeli cities, of whom 9,000 exit daily through the Erez Crossing. Firefighters responding to a brush fire earlier this month found the body of a Washington teenager who investigators say was doused in accelerant and set ablaze. Now, police are searching for answers. The fire was reported around 1 a.m. Sept. 3 near McKinley Park in Tacoma. After extinguishing the blaze, firefighters found the woman, identified as 18-year-old Chloee Moore, dead among the ruins of the fire, according to the Tacoma Police Department. After days of investigating the suspicious death, Tacoma police detectives said last week that Moore's body was covered in a flammable liquid and that she was intentionally set on fire, according to a post on the department's Facebook page. New Mexico: Newborn baby found dead in restroom at hospital, police investigation underway Who was Chloee Moore? Moore was an aspiring dental hygienist who had just turned 18 in June, according to a GoFundMe page created by her older sister to help with funeral costs. "My little sister was a beautiful person, with a heart of gold," the GoFundMe page reads. "We are all devastated by this loss ... Unfortunately due to the cruel hands of a sickened individual, my family couldn't even say goodbye one last time." In a Facebook post, a woman identifying herself as Moore's mother wrote that she had begged her daughter to stay home on Sept. 1. "But I wasn't able to convince her," Nicole Hanson wrote. "She assured me that she'd be home in the morning and so I let it rest. That was the last time I laid eyes on my baby girl. I had a terrible feeling and reported her missing." She said she got the news of her daughter's death on Sept. 6. "Someone set my daughter on fire!" she wrote. "I am devastated by this senseless and brutal act of violence. I have lost my precious child, my best friend, and my reason for living. I am struggling to cope with this unbearable loss, and I dont know how to move on without her." Pennsylvania: All 9 juveniles recaptured after escape from detention center, police say How did Chloee Moore die? It's unclear if Moore was dead before being set on fire. The Pierce County Medical Examiners Office said in a media release last week that a cause and manner of death have not yet been determined. The Tacoma Police Department said there was no new information to release on Monday morning. The medical examiner's office did not immediately return a message from USA TODAY seeking comment. Tacoma police said anyone with information about the Moore's death can call the South Sound 911 call center, which has non-emergency lines at 253-287-4455 or 800-562-9800. Those with information can also call the Tacoma-Pierce County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222 TIPS. Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at elagatta@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Tacoma, Washington teen Chloee Moore was set on fire, police say Severe storms arent generally hailed as good news in weather stories. However, in the case of Hurricane Hilary, its storm-driven rainfall helped with the ongoing drought for the Southwests Lake Mead if only a bit and not without doing damage elsewhere. The hurricane, which weakened to Tropical Storm Hilary before it made landfall in Mexico on Aug. 20, helped raise the level of Lake Mead to its highest point this year, USA Today reported. On the Colorado River, upstream of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead is the nations largest reservoir by volume and spans the Nevada-Arizona border less than 25 miles east of Las Vegas. Any rise in the reservoir is welcome news for a Southwest region with about 40 million people who depend on the river and have seen its water level decline over decades, as the Guardian reported. USA Today noted that following Hilarys input, Lake Mead was more than 20 feet higher than it was at the same time in 2022, though much of the increase was due to wet weather and snow this past winter. The Weather Channel reported that Lake Mead rose about 7 inches as Hilary passed, much of this aided by less demand for water downstream, allowing less release at the dam. The channels report also noted that melting snow had raised the lake far more. (Corrected link) So did Tropical Storm Hilary have an effect on the water levels at Lake Mead? Find out here: https://t.co/31vFNSJDCB The Weather Channel (@weatherchannel) August 23, 2023 Although the extra rainfall on Lake Mead was helpful, the storm also left destruction. According to the Associated Press, California saw floods, downed trees, and a dramatic rescue of older residents near Palm Springs. It caused at least one death in Mexico. Record desert rainfall also damaged Death Valley National Park so much that officials expected it to close for months. The story of Hilary isnt simple and illustrates the complexities of extreme weather on an overheating planet where weve seen floods, drought, extreme heat, storms, and wildfires within months. The AP noted after Hilary passed that it was just the latest major weather event to wreak havoc across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico and put it in the context of deadly fires that had just burned on Maui and others burning in Canada. At Lake Mead, experts concluded that Hilarys rains and last years snows have been beneficial but not enough. This buys a year, Brad Udall, a Lake Mead authority, told USA Today, referring to winter snowpack and recent precipitation. It doesnt remotely come close to solving the long-term problems. Join our free newsletter for cool news and cool tips that make it easy to help yourself while helping the planet. Another academic year is already underway, and Penn State is back in the spotlight as publications roll out this years national and global college rankings. U.S. News and World Report, the Wall Street Journal, Forbes and more each included Penn State among their top institutions this year, but key differences emerge when examining value, educational strengths and post-graduate outcomes. In many ways, Penn State ranked below its peer institutions in Pennsylvania and across the Big Ten conference. Heres what you need to know about Penn States placement in some of this years premier college and university rankings reports. U.S. News and World Report Perhaps best known these days for its college and university rankings, U.S. News and World Report sees Penn State on the rise. Penn States University Park campus finished in a six-way tie at No. 60 among the organizations latest national universities rankings. Thats a 17-spot jump up from 2022, when the school ranked No. 77 overall. Additionally, Penn States flagship campus tied for No. 28 among public schools and national universities, marking a three-spot rise from last year. Strong placements in rankings such as U.S. News are but one metric to show that we are succeeding in our mission as Pennsylvanias flagship, land-grant, public research university, Justin Schwartz, Penn States executive vice president and provost, wrote in a statement. A Penn State degree is highly regarded around the world. Our $1 billion research enterprise is impacting humanity with new knowledge and enriching our students learning by bringing research experiences into the classroom. And the University takes pride in providing opportunities for first-generation students and incredibly talented individuals from diverse and low-income backgrounds as part of our land-grant mission to serve all Pennsylvanians. Once again, Penn State finished dead last among its Big Ten conference peers in terms of value, a metric that, for U.S. News and World Report, centers around academic quality and the net cost of attendance for out-of-state students who received an average level of financial aid. This time around, Penn State ranked No. 193 out of 221 national universities in this years list of Best Value Schools, falling behind the 13 other current Big Ten schools, as well as the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), University of Southern California (USC) and the University of Oregon, which are slated to join the conference soon. The University of Washington, which will become the 18th Big Ten member alongside Oregon in 2024, was not included in the Best Value Schools rankings. Penn State ranked lowest among the 13 Pennsylvania institutions included in U.S. News and World Reports Best Value Schools. Temple University, which falls under the same state-related status as Penn State when it comes to state-provided funding, finished No. 70 overall, while the University of Pittsburgh was not ranked. Heres where Penn State ranked nationally in this years U.S. News and World Report U.S. News and World Report ranked Penn State No. 36 among its Best Colleges for Veterans and placed the school at No. 342 among its top performers on social mobility, which examines institutions that enroll and graduate disadvantaged students, particularly through grants. Furthermore, Penn State did not receive rankings in national universities lists for this years most innovative schools and top undergraduate teaching programs. Heres how Penn State fared in U.S. News and World Reports program and disciplinary rankings: Best National Universities: tie at No. 60 (t-10th in Big Ten) Best Public Schools (National Universities): t-28 (t-9th in Big Ten) Best Value Schools (National Universities): 193 (14th in Big Ten) Best Undergrad Nursing Programs: t-31 (t-9th in Big Ten) Best Undergrad Teaching Programs: Unranked Best Undergrad Engineering Programs: t-19 (t-6th in Big Ten) Top Majors in Engineering Programs: Aerospace/Aeronautical/Astronautical t-15; Biological/Agricultural t-10; Chemical 16; Civil 13; Computer t-25; Electrical/Electronic/Communications t-17; Environmental/Environmental Health t-15; Industrial Manufacturing 9; Materials; 9; Mechanical t-15. Best Undergrad Business Programs: t-21 (t-6th in Big Ten) Top Majors in Business Programs: Accounting t-25; Finance t-50; Management t-17; Marketing t-24; Production/Operations Management 11; Supply Chain Management/Logistics 8. Best Undergrad Computer Science Programs: t-40 (9th in Big Ten) Best Undergrad Economic Programs : t-41 (t-7th in Big Ten) Best Undergrad Psychology Programs : t-34 (8th in Big Ten) Most Innovative Schools (National Universities): Unranked Best Colleges for Veterans (National Universities): t-36 (t-9th in Big Ten) Best Performers on Social Mobility (National Universities): t-342 (11th in Big Ten) Forbes In its annual rankings of U.S. colleges and universities, Forbes placed Penn State at No. 408 nationally among private and public schools. Thats 253 spots below where Penn State found itself in the 2021 rankings. Penn State found itself ranked beneath nearly all 33 Pennsylvania schools represented in Forbes 2023 rankings, which feature 500 institutions across the country. Just like U.S. News and World Report, Forbes ranked Penn State beneath all 13 other current Big Ten schools and the four West Coast institutions slated to join the conference soon. In its analysis, Forbes ranked schools by examining a number of factors, including return on investment, student debt and outcomes for graduates. According to its methodology, schools ranked highly if their students tended to return after their first year, graduate on time, secure a high-paying post-graduate job and leave college behind with little student debt. You can browse and filter through Forbes 2023 college and university rankings online by visiting forbes.com/top-colleges. Wall Street Journal Through its rankings developed in collaboration with College Pulse and Statista, the Wall Street Journal placed Penn State at No. 220 overall earlier this month. Notably, the university earned a spot above fellow Big Ten schools Ohio State (No. 222) and University of Nebraska-Lincoln (No. 285). The Wall Street Journals rankings of the nations top 400 universities was fueled in part by College Pulses survey of more than 60,000 students and alumni from across the country between January and May 2023. According to the report, that survey was characterized as the largest-ever independent survey of verified college students and recent alumni in the U.S. Criteria for the Wall Street Journals rankings included student outcomes, graduation rates, learning environments, career preparation, diversity and more, all of which were generally compared to similar schools. Institutions across the U.S. qualified for the rankings if they are eligible to receive federal aid, award four-year degrees, teach more than 900 students, operate in a not-for-profit manner and receive enough survey responses, among other key factors. Check out the Wall Street Journals full rankings online at wsj.com/rankings/college-rankings/best-colleges-2024. Additional rankings Since 2012, the Center for World University Rankings has published a global ranking of universities that focus on education, post-graduate employment, faculty quality and research. This list is different, the CWUR says, because it does not rely on surveys and university data submissions. Penn State placed No. 53 overall out of 2,000 international institutions in CWURs 2022-23 rankings. The university received high marks for its faculty and research (ranked No. 57 and 53, respectively), but lost standing in the rankings education and employment fields. Additionally, Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) ranked Penn State No. 83 overall among roughly 1,500 global institutions in its latest World University Rankings, released in June. The university rose 10 spots from the previous rankings. QS, a company specializing in the analysis of higher education across the globe, ranked Penn State No. 24 among this years U.S. institutions and No. 4 among Big Ten schools. The results are fueled in part by the analysis of academic papers and expert opinions from more than 240,000 faculty and employees across the globe. Ultimately, each rankings organization uses measures it deems important, and there is wide variation in methodology and the kinds of data collected, Penn State wrote in a statement. We remain committed to excellence, to providing Pennsylvanians with access to a world-class education, and to our long-term partnership with the commonwealth. House Republicans are struggling to lock down votes for a proposed stopgap funding measure with less than two weeks left to avoid a government shutdown. The measure, crafted by leaders of the hard-line House Freedom Caucus and the Main Street Caucus and unveiled late Sunday, would extend government funding through Oct. 31. It would cut all discretionary spending by 8 percent except for the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs, and it includes the bulk of a House GOP border policy bill. The bill is sure to be dead on arrival in the Democratic-controlled Senate, but Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) and his conference would win significant leverage with the Senate and White House if they could at least get it through the chamber in a party-line vote. House GOP deal to avert shutdown gets icy reception from conservatives The problem is that a number of hard-line Republicans are lining up against the measure, with some saying they will never vote for a stopgap measure. Given the narrow GOP majority, Republicans can only lose four of their own members if everyone in the House votes. Democrats would all be expected to vote against the measure. The Hill is keeping a whip list on the critical votes. Bookmark the page to keep track of updates through the week. Recent updates: Rep. Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.) No votes (12) Rep. Dan Bishop (R-N.C.) Bishop says hes opposed to a stopgap measure, generally known as a continuing resolution (CR). Roll back the crazy bureaucracy to pre-COVID levels, he said in a post on X, the platform previously known as Twitter. Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) Burchett told The Hill that hes a no on the legislation. Rep. Eli Crane (R-Ariz.) Crane said he was a No, in a succinct post on X. Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) Gaetz has been the biggest thorn in McCarthys side throughout this Congress and has said he will not back the legislation. He has repeatedly threatened to bring a motion to vacate to the floor essentially a measure to dump McCarthy as Speaker. Rep. Bob Good (R-Va.) We must recommit to implementing the conservative Republican policies that we ran on last year, including real spending cuts that take a step forward toward fiscal responsibility. Speaker McCarthy must step up and lead this effort, which can be done by September 30, or soon thereafter, Good wrote on X. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) Greene is an ally of McCarthys, but in a post on X she said she opposes the legislation and criticized it for essentially comprising Democratic policies from last years appropriations measures. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) Luna said she is a no on the CR. Shes also recovering after delivering a baby, but said shell fly to Washington to vote against the legislation if needed. Rep. Cory Mills (R-Fla.) Mills told reporters This right here, were calling an 8 percent cut on this CR. But were spending a level at $1.75 trillion. Thats not an actual cut. You ask any average American and say how do I get myself out of debt? Its not I spend more. Rep. Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.) Ogles is decidedly looking like a no vote, putting up social media posts calling those opposed to the CR heroes. Rep. Matt Rosendale (R-Mont.) Rosendale, who may run for the Senate in Montana, said he will not back a continuing resolution. Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-Ind.) Spartz issued a statement laying out her opposition and criticizing McCarthy for a lack of leadership. Lean no (4) Rep. Ken Buck (R-Colo.) Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) Gonzales said the CR falls short by a lot of lot of measures. He added, Im looking for real things, not messaging empty bills that just blame people for whats wrong. Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) Norman has favored deep spending cuts and has made it clear hes willing to see a shutdown to get them. After the deal was announced, he strongly suggested he wanted to see deeper cuts. My questions are these, 1) what is the top line # for all 12 Appropriation bills net of any rescissions ? Will leadership go to the mat and not cede power regardless of the days of the shutdown? Why are we not working on passing all 12 appropriations NOW!! Norman told The Hill in a text message. Updated at 10:04 a.m. Sept. 19 For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Five Americans who have been detained in Iran were released Monday in exchange for the Biden administration granting clemency to five Iranians and moving $6 billion in a restricted Iranian account, the White House announced. Five American citizens wrongfully imprisoned and two family members who have been banned from traveling from Iran boarded a Qatari plane en route for Doha early Monday, according to a senior administration official. They will then travel to Washington to reunite with families. The citizens include Siamak Namazi, Morad Tahbaz , Emad Shargi and two unidentified Americans who have wished to remain private. Additionally, the mother of Namazi and the wife of Tahbaz, both of whom have not been able to leave Iran, will be on the plane. Five Iranians who were convicted with nonviolent crimes will be freed in the exchange, the official said. Two of the Iranians who do not have legal status in the U.S. will return to Doha. These prisoners are Kaveh Lotfolah Afrasiabi, Mehrdad Ansari, Amin Hasanzadeh, Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani and Kambiz Attar Kashani. The U.S is also moving $6 billion of Iranian funds frozen in South Korea to a Qatari bank as part of the deal. The funds will be available for Iran on a limited use and only for humanitarian transactions such as food, medicine and agricultural products. These are Iranian funds, payments made by South Korea to Iran for purchases of oil years ago, including during the last administration, an official said. These funds will be available only for transactions for humanitarian goods with vetted third party non-Iranian venders. If Iran tries to divert the funds or use them for another use other than humanitarian purchases, we will take action to lock up the funds, the official added. The administration has received pushback for the deal, with Republicans expressing deep concern about potential threats to national security from the agreement. This has been a process that has been going on for a very difficult negotiation really over a period of years, the official said, adding that some offers during negotiations were flat out rejected by the Biden administration. A new set of sanctions against actors in Iran will also be issued Monday. The administration will announce sanctions on Irans Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS) for holding and interrogating prisoners and for its history of human rights abuses. And, it will sanction former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad for constant promotion of lies about Bob Levinsons whereabouts that still persist to this day, an official said. An official said the Biden administration is still working to get more information on Levinson, who disappeared in Iran during a CIA mission in 2007 and is expected to have been murdered. The United States will never give up on Bob Levinsons case, the official said, adding that it calls on Iran to give details about what happened to him. Ahead of the White Houses announcement Monday, a spokesperson for Irans foreign ministry confirmed that a prisoner swap with the U.S. would take place. Nasser Kanaani said during a news conference broadcast on state television that $6 billion in unfrozen Iranian assets, which had been a key condition to allow the prisoner swap, had been transferred successfully from South Korea to Qatar. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Whitehall police are continuing to investigate after a man was found shot in the backyard of a home early Monday morning. The shooting was reported around 2:25 a.m. Monday on the 900 block of Colgate Road. The victim, a 22-year-old man, died at the scene. The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation was called in to assist with processing evidence at the scene. A gathering was held at the home Sunday night into Monday morning and the man was shot during that gathering. He was not a resident of the home. Whitehall Deputy Chief Dan Kelso said the shooting is not believed to be random. Whitehall police have not released any information about a possible suspect or motive in the shooting. Police are asking anyone with information or who may have seen something to call in to detectives. Residents and businesses in the area are also asked to check doorbell and surveillance cameras for any possible unusual or suspicious behavior captured after 2 a.m. Monday. Anyone with information is asked to call Whitehall police at 614-237-6333 or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-TIPS. All calls to Crime Stoppers are anonymous. bbruner@dispatch.com @bethany_bruner This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Whitehall police investigating after man found dead outside home Armenian opposition supporters march with torches during an anti-Russian rally against Russia's policy in the Karabakh conflict and its military action in Ukraine, in Yerevan on November 9, 2022. (Photo by KAREN MINASYAN/AFP via Getty Images) The small but mighty nation of Armenia is in an interesting geopolitical neighborhood. On its western border is Turkey, a NATO ally but longtime enemy. To its east is another enemy, Azerbaijan, with which Armenia just fought over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region, claimed by both countries. In the north is Georgia which is in a never ending war of words and spies (and sometimes actual wars) with Russia. Both Georgia and Armenia were part of the Soviet Union, but even when Russia invaded Georgia in 2008, support for Russia in Armenia was high. To Armenia south is Iran, which, for the moment, is friendly to Russia-aligned Armenia. But in late September 2023, Armenia will host the United States for a joint military exercise. The move is far more threatening to Russia, which hosts Russian military forces as part of its Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) membership. The exercises are the latest in a split between Russia and Armenia, which could permanently break their relations or worse. Armenia and Russia have retained close relations since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 . Armenia joined Russia in the Commonwealth of Independent States, and joined the economic military and mutual aid collaboration of the CSTO in 1997. But since Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan was elected to lead Armenia in 2018, the country has been slowly breaking away from Russias sphere of influence. When fighting between Armenia and Azerbaijan broke out over the Nagorno-Karabakh region once again in 2020, Russian President Vladimir Putin didnt immediately intervene, cooling relations between the two even more. Pashinyan went further in September 2023. Moscow has been unable to deliver and is in the process of winding down its role in the wider South Caucasus region," Pashinyan said. "The Russian Federation cannot meet Armenia's security needs. This example should demonstrate to us that dependence on just one partner in security matters is a strategic mistake." The Prime Ministers words come after Armenia announced it sent the first lady of the country to deliver humanitarian aid to Ukraine. It has also begun to further distance itself from the Russia-led CSTO. The military drills are just Armenias latest effort at realigning itself with the West. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters that the drills are cause for concern and Moscow will monitor the situation. Armenia now finds itself in a Ukraine-like situation . Tired of dealing with Russian hegemony, which has caused a lot of economic hardships in Armenia, the Armenian government is beginning to look further and further West toward the U.S. and EU. But Russia has built up a lot of armed forces inside Armenia. Even worse, Russians fleeing the war in Ukraine have moved to Armenia in droves, meaning Moscow has the ability to hide its own people among the refugees there, a potential hidden fifth column like the tactic used to seize Crimea. Enemies on three borders, a country potentially filled with pro-Russian sympathizers and an ever-worsening lack of external will to keep Armenia independent could mean Armenia loses its independence entirely. It could be one more former Soviet republic absorbed by Putins dream of rebuilding the USSR. Cumberland County residents could find themselves with one less license plate agency come Dec. 1 if the Division of Motor Vehicles doesn't find someone to fill that void. Marty Homan, a spokesperson for the North Carolina Department of Transportation, said via email Monday that the operator of the Spring Lake location is retiring. We are conducting our background check process before moving forward with selecting a new contractor, Homan wrote. The N.C. License Plate Agency in Spring Lake is set to close Dec. 1. Self-service kiosks coming: You could soon be able to renew your drivers license at a local grocery store. Heres how The Department of Transportation said in a June 28 news release that the DMV was seeking a contractor to operate the license plate agency, located at 316C N.C. 210 N. The Spring Lake location has been operated by Troy Townsend since 2017, the release said. The 127 license plate agencies in North Carolina are overseen by the DMV but are managed by private business owners or local governments, according to the release. The agencies offer vehicle registration services, title transactions, license plate renewals, replacement tags and duplicate registrations, the release said. Townsends contract ends Nov. 30. Homan could not provide an estimate for when a new contractor might step in. We are working diligently through our process to have a new contractor in place just as soon as we can, he said. We are hopeful that residents there wont be without an LPA (license plate agency) for too long. The N.C. License Plate Agency in Spring Lake is set to close Dec. 1. Homan noted that a new operator could choose to remain at the agencys current location or move to a new location. There are still two other license plate agencies in the county. One is at the Eutaw Village Shopping Center, 815 Elm St. in Fayetteville, and the other is at the Hope Mills Shopping Plaza, 3333 N. Main St. in Hope Mills. The Fayetteville location is a 15-minute drive from the Spring Lake agency, while the Hope Mills location is 29 minutes away. According to the Department of Transportation, the Hope Mills and Fayetteville license plate agencies will be the only remaining locations in Cumberland County if the Spring Lake location closes. Government watchdog reporter Lexi Solomon can be reached at ABSolomon@gannett.com. Special Subscription Offers This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: Spring Lake's license plate agency could close at end of November As the counteroffensive progresses, Ukraines leaders are giving higher priority to striking Russian targets beyond the immediate battlefield. They urge the West to provide modern fighter jets, like the F-16, and longer-range rocket artillery, like the ground-launched Army Tactical Missile System. Both weapons now seem likely to enter the fight this year or next. How will they help Ukraine? Throughout the war, Russian forces have relied heavily on artillery, consistent with their doctrine of emphasizing cannon and rocket artillery to wear down an enemy. NATO, in contrast, leverages its air forces, which are usually technically superior to Russias. Aircraft offer more flexibility and can attack multiple targets in a single sortie. Survivable air power can strike strategic and mobile targets deep behind enemy lines. Until recently, the U.S. appeared hesitant to provide deep-strike arms. Allied initiative may have helped overcome this reticence. After Denmark and the Netherlands offered older F-16s, the Biden administration agreed to the transfer and offered help with pilot training. Allied provision of F-16s can be attractive to the U.S. because costs are shared. Earlier, the White House seemed to fear that dispatching combat aircraft to Ukraine might cross a Russian red line, perhaps even prompting threats of a nuclear response. The United States rebuffed a Polish bid to send used MiG-29 aircraft to Ukraine. Other NATO allies also have decided that providing deep-strike weaponry is important for Ukraines defense and worth any risk of escalation. Recently, the British and French sent air-launched Storm Shadow and Scalp cruise missiles, respectively. Some of Ukraines fleet of aging Soviet-era fighters have been modified to carry them. Ukrainian attacks on logistics depots behind the front lines have resulted in Russia losing thousands of artillery shells along with fuel and other equipment. In devastating strikes on Crimeas Sevastopol port, Storm Shadows, Scalps and seaborne drones may have seriously damaged a large Russian landing ship, diesel submarine and shore infrastructure. As Ukraine transitions to European-provided F-16s, it will gain access to more advanced cruise missiles, such as the low-observable Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile. Additional types of missiles might also help Ukraine hold at risk strategic Russian staging areas. Russias air defense environment is one of the worlds most challenging. It could be risky for Ukrainian F-16s to fly deep into the battlefield and/or operate for long periods over Russian forces. Partly for this reason, ground-launched missiles are an essential complement to air power; they can be launched at any time and generally have increased survivability relative to manned combat aircraft. Fast-flying ballistic missiles are especially survivable due to their speed and maneuverability, though they have less range compared to cruise missiles. A longer-range ballistic missile capable of precision attack, the Army Tactical Missile System, or ATACMS, can be fired from multiple launchers. Ukraine possesses several kinds, such as the U.S.-made M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System and the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System. The U.S. has been reluctant to provide ATACMS in part because stockpiles are limited while the Army awaits its replacement, the Precision Strike Missile. The Biden administration now hints that it may provide ATACMS. If it takes this step, however, Ukraine might receive only a few dozen missiles. The U.S. could facilitate delivery of more ATACMS by allowing the re-export of European-owned systems. Poland, Romania, Greece and Turkey have ATACMS. Last year, Lithuania and Estonia signed purchase agreements. Coordinated deep-strike capabilities air-launched and ground-launched will be most effective in degrading Russian forces and operations. Using air and ground launchers would force Russian commanders to devote substantial intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities to attempt to find these systems. The commanders would have to divert these capabilities from other efforts. In some cases, Ukraine might need to make hard choices. Since the U.S. may have a limited stockpile of deep-strike missiles like the ATACMS and the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile, Ukraine might not receive as many deep-strike arms as it wants. John Hoehn is an associate policy researcher at the think tank Rand and a former military analyst with the Congressional Research Service. Hunter Stoll is a policy analyst at Rand and an Army Reserve intelligence officer. William Courtney is an adjunct senior fellow at Rand and was the U.S. ambassador to Kazakhstan, Georgia, and the U.S.-USSR commission to implement the Threshold Test Ban Treaty. by Dana Halawi BEIRUT, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Experts called on Lebanese authorities to strengthen industry and agriculture sectors to increase exports and further reduce the trade deficit, which has seen a contraction of nearly 6 percent to 8.2 billion U.S. dollars in the first seven months of 2023 compared to a year earlier. "The government must secure adequate infrastructure such as electricity, in addition to tax incentives, to attract foreign companies to invest in Lebanon and contribute to the country's industrial and agricultural growth," said Bassem El-Bawab, a business instructor at the American University of Beirut. He added that "such initiatives would reduce Lebanon's imports and increase the country's ability to export as it would then have a competitive production cost, which would help further narrow the trade deficit." Nassib Ghobril, an economist and head of the economic research department at Byblos Bank, echoed El-Bawab's opinion, saying it is essential to focus on exports to decrease the trade deficit, as imports can hardly be reduced since Lebanon is reliant on importing raw materials to develop its industry sector. Ghobril said Lebanese authorities must support not only the export of products but also of services. "We can focus more on tourism, banking, and outsourcing services," he added. According to a weekly publication by Byblos Bank, Lebanon's total imports reached 9.8 billion dollars in the first seven months of 2023, registering a decrease of 9.3 percent from 10.8 billion dollars in the same period of 2022, while aggregate exports totaled 1.6 billion dollars, down by 24 percent from 2.1 billion dollars recorded in the same period last year. "As the data show, the trade deficit narrowed by 5.7 percent to 8.2 billion dollars in Jan.-July 2023 from the same period last year," said the report. Ghobril noted that the imports in 2022 were exceptionally high due to the increase in prices of petroleum, metals, and grains caused by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. It was also driven up by merchants stockpiling imported goods in last year at a lower customs dollar rate. "The import bill dropped in 2023 because prices of petroleum and commodities went down, and importers in Lebanon, who already bought their goods in 2022, have had sufficient stocks of products for this year," he said. El-Bawab said the reasons behind the drop in imports in 2023 also include the decline in the purchasing power of citizens who are no longer capable of consuming the same quality and quantity of products as before the financial crisis, which has shown no sign of improvement since it began to loom in 2019. FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) One of the candidates in Californias 2024 Senate election stopped in Fresno on Saturday as part of a meet and greet with potential voters. Katie Porter was at the Fresno Democratic Club Headquarters in Downtown Fresno. Her visit follows a report earlier this month in the San Joaquin Valley Sun suggesting Central Valley voters were being ignored by Porter. During the meet and greet, Porter spoke to potential voters about her candidacy for the U.S. Senate and what she intends to do in the role if voters select her in November 2024. Katie Porter is not the only candidate in the running to represent California in the U.S. Senate. Adam Schiff and Barbara Lee are also on the campaign trail in the race to succeed retiring Senator Dianne Feinstein. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. A wild black bear was spotted at Walt Disney World on Monday. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission "safely captured" and relocated it. The disturbance temporarily closed a number of rides in Disney's Magic Kingdom. A wild black bear wandered into Walt Disney World earlier Monday but has since been "safely captured," officials with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Disney World said in a statement shared with Insider. More likely than not, the female bear was likely looking for something to eat when she made her way onto the park grounds, the statement said. "The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is aware of a black bear reported in a tree on Walt Disney World property at the Magic Kingdom. Biologists with the FWC's Bear Management Program, as well as FWC Law Enforcement officers, have safely captured the adult, female bear," the statement said. It continued: "During the fall, bears are more active as they search for food to pack on fat reserves for the winter. This particular bear was likely moving through the area searching for food." Officials said that usually it's best to give bears space so they can "move along on their own," but in this case, the capture and the relocation of the wild bear was necessary. They are moving the bear out of the theme park to an "area in or around the Ocala National Forest" about 90 miles north of Disney World. According to one Disney employee who was working at EPCOT Monday and spoke to Insider, the park had to shut down Adventureland, Frontierland, and Liberty Square while the bear was on the premises three smaller areas that make up parts of the larger Magic Kingdom park. Multiple fan-favorite rides were closed until the bear was captured at around 1 p.m. local time including Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Jungle Cruise, and Haunted Mansion, Fox 35 Orlando reported. Variety reported that the bear was first seen in a tree near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Read the original article on Insider The fountain suddenly stopped working after 100 years, and couldnt be fixed. Winthrop Universitys iconic fountain, in front of an historic Rock Hill building, went dry sometime in 2018. That fountain had seen generations of Winthrop University students come and go. It had been installed a century earlier in 1918. Now, five years later, crews are touching up a brand new fountain with the same design -- still in its familiar spot in front of Tillman Hall. The new Winthrop Univeristy fountain will be complete in December of 2023. The project includes a brick-paved walkway and seating. Fountains are centerpieces for many college campuses. Art students sketch the fountains. Photography students capture the images. Sororities and fraternities pose around them. But for Winthrop over the past few decades, the fountain had largely been where students, faculty and staff simply walk or drive past on the way to other places. The new Winthrop Univeristy fountain will be complete in December of 2023. The project includes a brick-paved walkway and seating. Members of several Winthrop alumni classes want to change that. The classes of 1970-1974, particularly the class of 1972, have raised more than $488,000, as part of their 50th reunion, to build the new fountain, said Executive Director of Alumni Relations, Lori Tuttle. The goal is $500,000. We, unfortunately were not able to restore the original fountain as we hoped, Tuttle said. And so what we are looking at going forward is this to become another iconic symbol of Winthrops campus that current students and alumni can enjoy. The new fountain will include a brick-paved walkway and seating area that will extend on the universitys front side to Oakland Avenue. There also will be a new new flag pole. The new fountain will allow current students to start their own traditions and for alumni to come back and enjoy it, Tuttle said. Winthrop President Edward Serna said he has a catbird seat outside his office in Tillman Hall. The run-up to this project has been a labor of love on the part of so many campus stakeholders who have enthusiastically supported not only getting the water flowing again, but truly making this a distinctive feature with fantastic possibilities for the future, Serna has said. Tuttle said neither Winthrop University nor the state of South Carolina has allocated money for the new fountain. Events happened at the fountain The Winthrop fountain was the backdrop to several school traditions: The Daisy Chain, which started in 1903. Students collected daisies and made them into a chain with rope and ivy, after which the senior class president gave the junior class president her mortar board. The students then placed the chain around the class tree. The tradition was phased out in 1961. Students also would dunk the student government association president in the fountain, Tuttle said. Each year since 1935, the Rock Hill community has celebrated the beginning of Christmas by lighting the large historic magnolia tree next to the fountain. Crews have been careful to not harm the tree while constructing the new fountain. Other traditions were just shenanigans, said Debra Fetner, a member of the class of 1972. There was always a story of somebody putting bubbles in it, or they put dye in it, Fetner said. Fetners class helped raise nearly $115,000 for the project. The class of 1970 raised more than $50,000, the classes of 1971 and 73 raised nearly $25,000 each and the class of 1974 raised more than $28,000. Other donors have given thousands of dollars. Fetner said her class of 1972 would go grand and were gonna go big. Alumi, memories, pride and the fountain Susan Swails, also a 1972 alum, said the fountain has always been here, despite much change to the university. When she went to the school, it was called Winthrop College and only women attended. From left, Gail McLellan, Susan Swails and Debra Feitner stand in front of the new fountain at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, S.C. When Swails went to Winthrop, big changes happened, she said. The Vietnam War was taking place, people were rioting, people attended Woodstock and the women at the college had to wear dresses. You had to wear dresses everywhere, Swails said. You had to wear dresses to class, dresses on the front campus, dresses to dinner Saturday night and to Sunday lunch. By the time she left Winthrop, the women could wear pants and men started attending the school. The fountain has always been here, and it witnesses all that change she said. but it remains the same to remind us that those inner values and different things that we cling to that are always going to be the same, though outwardly we may change... but some things dont. The project will be complete in December. To donate to the fountain project, visit https://www.winthrop.edu/alumni/fountain-restoration-project-photo-gallery.aspx for details. Baseless GOP impeachments seem to be a new national trend. Like his U.S. House counterpart Kevin McCarthy, Republican Speaker of the Wisconsin State Assembly Robin Vos is threatening to lead an utterly unfounded impeachment proceeding. In Voss case the target is newly-elected Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Janet Protasiewicz , who hes threatening to impeach before she even rules on a single case. As an impeachment expert who has worked on and written about impeachments, I have never seen one that would be as groundless as that of Protasiewicz. The problem for Vos is that the impeachment is unjustified by any reasonable standard, although given his history of extreme partisanship that seems unlikely to stop him or his new hand-picked secretive panel of advisors who are evidently building his case for impeaching the newly-seated justice. None of the Wisconsin GOPs allegations against Protasiewicz remotely reaches the exceptionally high standard for impeachment under the Wisconsin Constitution. Vos and his allies want people to believe that Protasiewicz cannot rule fairly on a redistricting case. Why? Because, they claim, her campaign accepted contributions from the Democratic Party, which is not even a party to the case, and in an interview during the campaign she voiced her personal opposition to partisan gerrymandering. Under Wisconsin law, Justice Protasiewicz alone determines recusal In Wisconsin as elsewhere, judges and judges alone determine whether they should recuse themselves. For years, conservative justices in Wisconsin have, in fact, fought against setting recusal standards, and the Wisconsin Code of Judicial Ethics expressly states that judges need not recuse themselves solely on the basis of lawful campaign contributions. Voss case for impeachment is weak and becomes even weaker upon reading the states constitution, which authorizes the legislature to impeach elected officials only for a narrow range of offenses: For corrupt conduct in office, or for crimes and misdemeanors. The GOPs impeachment effort is completely unmoored from this legal standard. To make matters even worse for Vos, the states Judicial Commission has already dismissed GOP-backed complaints that Protasiewiczs campaign comments were unethical. The commission rightfully found that she was permissibly sharing her personal beliefs, without pledging or promising how she would rule in matters before the court. File. Democratic staff attorney Norm Eisen questions constitutional law experts Harvard Law School professor Noah Feldman, Stanford Law School professor Pamela Karlan, University of North Carolina Law School professor Michael Gerhardt and George Washington University Law School professor Jonathan Turley during a hearing before the House Judiciary Committee on the constitutional grounds for the impeachment of President Donald Trump, Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2019, on Capitol Hill in Washington. (Drew Angerer/Pool via AP) Wisconsin Republicans have understood this legal distinction when it suits their purpose. Conservative Justice Brian Hagedorn has referred to Planned Parenthood as wicked, likened same-sex relationships to bestiality, and dubbed Christianity as the only correct religion. Before joining the court, conservative Justice Rebecca Bradley wrote that abortion rights equated to giving women the right to murder their own flesh and blood. Republicans have made no demands that these justices recuse themselves from cases about abortion, gay rights, or religion. To put it simply, there is no reality in which Protasiewiczs actions have met the impeachment standard. Indeed, former Wisconsin Justice David Prosser, who revealed to the Associated Press that he is a member of Voss secretive panel, accepted donations from the state Republican Party when he was on the court and did not recuse from cases involving a law he helped pass as a lawmaker. (For good measure, he also made a campaign contribution to Protasiewiczs opponent.) Impeachment meant to maintain Wisconsin's gerrymandered districts The ultimate goal of impeachment is insidious: The most extreme gerrymandered Republican state legislature in the nation would unconstitutionally impeach a state supreme court justice, for the express purpose of preventing her from voting on a case that may undo the extreme gerrymander that keeps those same legislators in office. If this effort succeeds, there would be nothing left of an independent judiciary in Wisconsin: whenever the legislature didnt like how a judge ruled, it could simply remove him or her with a simple majority vote in the Assembly. It would be farcical if it were not so frightening. More perspectives from the Ideas Lab: Thankfully, if the legislature returns to rattling the impeachment sword, there is hope that the rule of law may yet prevail. Courts in multiple states have exercised their power to review whether impeachment proceedings violate constitutional requirements. Indeed, just this year a Pennsylvania court threw out an unconstitutional impeachment. Of course, if the legislature ultimately drops this charade, a court fight may not be necessary. But if Vos launches his impeachment, Wisconsin courts will undoubtedly see a case that asks a fundamental question: Will the Wisconsin judiciary permit the state legislature to eviscerate judicial independence through an impeachment that clearly violates both the state and federal constitutions? The answer is clearly no. Norman Eisen is a senior fellow in Governance Studies at the Brookings Institution, executive chair of the States United Democracy Center, and a globally-recognized authority on law, ethics, and anti-corruption. He wrote this op-ed in his personal capacity, not on behalf of either organization. Eisen served as special counsel to the House Judiciary Committee, led by Democrats, for the impeachment of former president Donald Trump from February 2019 to February 2020. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Janet Protasiewicz may be removed MEMPHIS, Tenn. A woman allegedly returned to a Downtown Walgreens swinging a knife at an employee after she was barred from the store, police say. Suspects pull gun on Marshalls employee, steal $1,200 in merchandise: MPD According to reports, on Sept. 16, the manager of Walgreens on Main Street stated that the suspect, Ebonie Glover, was removed from the business after creating a disturbance. Police say the manager was stocking shelves in the medicine aisle when she heard footsteps and mumbling coming from behind her. When she turned around, she saw Glover swinging a knife at her. Alleged thief gives stolen TV back after victim follows him home, police say The manager jumped out of the way to avoid being injured by the knife before Glover left the store. Police say they captured Glover a short distance away from the Walgreens. Man shot in robbery on Poplar in Midtown Glover was previously barred from Walgreens and placed on Authorization of Agency back in July due to multiple incidents of theft, according to reports. She is now being charged with Aggravated Assault and Aggravated Criminal Trespassing. Her next court date is set for Tuesday morning. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. The Columbia Police Department is investigating what it called the suspicious death of a South Carolina woman. At about 3 p.m. Saturday, an unresponsive woman was found in her home in the the 300 block of Byron Road, police said. Thats near Exit 9 on Interstate 77, which is the junction with Garners Ferry Road. The 66-year-old woman died, according to police. The Richland County Coroners Office has not publicly identified the woman, and no cause of death has been released. Police said the departments Violent Crimes Against Persons Unit is leading the investigation, and officers collected evidence from the scene. No arrests have been reported, there is no word on a possible motive in the death, and police said the investigation is in the infancy stage. This is a developing story, check back for updates. An Instagram famous woman, whos been identified as influencer Morgan Osman, was caught on camera arguing with passengers on an airplane while removing her luggage from the overhead compartment. It is currently unknown how this incident started, or why she was removing her luggage and verbally fighting with fellow passengers. The footage was filmed on an American Airlines flight, according to the Daily Mail. In a 20-second video clip posted onto X, the woman can be seen arguing with another person who is standing in the aisle. Call me a b**** again, she says, as the passenger filming her laughs at the verbal flight unfolding in front of a seated audience. Call me a b***** again, I did nothing wrong! the woman says as she grabs her luggage. Someone off camera tells her to shut up, to which she responds: No you shut the f*** up! You shut the f*** up, and your b****. The woman then turns to walk down the aisle towards the front of the plane and spots the passenger filing her. Film me, she says to the passenger Im Instagram famous, you f***ing bum. After the video went viral on X, formerly known as Twitter, Morgan Osman has identified herself as the passenger on the plane. The influencer, who has more than 981,000 followers on Instagram, previously starred in the hit reality show, Bad Girls Clubs. Back in 2017, she also alleged that she was having an affair with Sam Asghari, while he was still married to now ex-wife Britney Spears. On her Instagram Story, Osman has now reposted articles about the plane incident. For example, when she reshared a post from Hollywood Unlocked, she made some clarifications about what happened on the plane. I didnt get kicked off [the plane], she wrote. I asked leave instead of turning violent. Thank you. She also poked fun at her celebrity status after the incident by sharing a photo of herself and her ex, German fashion designer Philipp Plein. Dont act like yall dont know who tf I am, she wrote. From Bad Girls Club to the south of France with billboards all over LA. Come on now. Social media is comparing this incident to the Tiffany Gomas meltdown that happened on an American Airlines flight in July (X) As Osmans identified herself as the viral plane passenger, people are also comparing speech to another plane screaming match that happened in early July. During another American Airlines flight, a woman screamed at rows of passengers, and claimed that the person she was sitting next to was not real. Tiffany Gomas, who was demanding to get off the plane, later apologised for her airplane meltdown and behaviour which she described as her very worst moment. It is unclear when this argument happened, yet news of it comes after another incident on an American Airlines flight on 2 September where a teenage girl was surreptitiously filmed while she used a plane bathroom by a male flight attendant. The attendant was removed by Massachusetts State Police after they found a phone strapped to the toilet seat. The Independent has contacted American Airlines for comment. Kenzey Hunt was run over by a boat and sucked into the propeller while tubing in August. Since the terrifying ordeal, Hunt and her sister Sydney have made numerous videos documenting her recovery. In one video, she drew viewers a diagram of how her butt was "chopped off" by the propeller. After a scary boating accident, a woman has been documenting her long and painful recovery journey through her sister's TikTok account. Earlier this month, the 20-year-old Kenzey Hunt told viewers her butt was chopped off by the boat's propeller, which meant she was unable to sit for three months properly. Hunt and her sister Sydney, who has an account with over 50,000 followers, began documenting her hospitalization in late August, several days after the injury occurred. The Utah-based sisters have since made over a dozen videos related to Hunt's recovery. In an August 30 video that has been viewed over 2.5 million times, Hunt explained how the accident unfolded. She said she and Sydney were on a girl's trip to South Carolina with friends and decided to go tubing one day with one of her friend's boyfriend's friends, who they didn't know. When one of the girls fell off her tube, one of the men driving the boat went to pick her up. "He made a really sharp U-turn and the rope was really slacked, and he just came, hit me, head on, and I was still laying on the tube headfirst," she recalled. This embedded content is not available in your region. Hunt said she was sucked under the boat, got hit by the propeller, and was whipped by the rope when she came up from the water. "It got my butt pretty good, so my butt was just kind of open," she said in the TikTok. "I felt it, and there was just blood everywhere." She said her sister jumped in the water to help her and was "in shock" upon seeing the blood. She said the guy in the boat lifted her up and had to put her "butt back together." The cops were called and she was quickly transported to the hospital, she said. In total, she was left with a gashing butt injury, propeller bruises going down her leg, deep cuts and fractures on her foot, and a pelvis fracture. She said she also needed an ostomy bag, or a medical device to collect waste, for six months. However horrendous, Hunt has made several videos poking fun at the butt injury. "Did it hurt when you got hit by a boat and it chopped your butt off?" on-screen text of one video read, which features Hunt sarcastically lip-syncing, "Ahh, oh my goodness I love this question!" In response to curious viewers and commenters who identified as medical professionals, Hunt made a video specifically describing what happened to her butt and even drew a diagram of how it was split apart. This embedded content is not available in your region. Hunt told Insider that the propeller caused 5-to-6 "pretty deep" lacerations on her body and her tush needed to be "spread out" and "pushed or held together." "One of the cuts did leave a section hanging off," she said. "I had towels pushed up against the wounds until the EMTs were able to wrap it up better." Over the last month, Hunt has made numerous videos responding to viewers' questions including whether she held any ill will against the man who ran her over. While she said she was frustrated about the overall situation at the time, she has forgiven him and does not plan on suing. Hunt told Insider she was hospitalized for a total of 18 days between two hospitals in South Carolina. She returned home on September 1, which she and Sydney also documented in a TikTok video. Hunt said it felt "freeing and relieving" to finally be able to go home. This embedded content is not available in your region. "My injuries are unique, and with not being able to put any weight on my butt or foot, [it] makes moving around and relaxing difficult," she told Insider. "We've been able to figure out a good system for me to get around, shower, sleep ... Having to move around and figuring out a new system has been a little harder mentally because that's when it really hits me how real it all is. But I have had incredible help and support to get me through." In one of her most recent videos from this past weekend, Hunt shared a "Get Ready With Me"(GRWM) vlog preparing for one of her best friend's weddings. It's the first time since her accident that she's been able to get ready for an event, she noted. Commenters throughout the ordeal have applauded her for her remarkable positive attitude. "I find your outlook and attitude fantastic! I can see you have ups and downs, but you are really inspiring," one person under an update video from late August; "What a milestone and you both looked gorgeous!" another commenter exclaimed about her and Sydney's final looks from the GRWM. Hunt said she's looking forward to "so many things" when she fully recovers, like returning to work as a youth mentor for a residential treatment center for teen boys. "I can't wait to just be independent and be able to take care of myself," she added. "I can't wait for all the simple things like sitting, driving, walking normal, getting ready, sitting at a restaurant...so many things." Read the original article on Insider Women less likely than men to receive CPR from strangers, study finds Women are less likely to receive CPR from bystanders than men especially in the case of emergencies in a public area, according to a new study. Data from records of cardiac arrests that happened outside hospitals in Canada and the US between 2005 and 2015 were assessed in the research, presented at the European Emergency Medicine Congress. Scientists, including those from Montreal Heart Institute in Canada, looked at data from over 39,000 patients with an average age of 67. They assessed whether or not a bystander performed CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, when the emergency took place, as well as the age and gender of the patient. They found only around half the patients received CPR from a bystander, with women less likely to be given CPR compared to men. The study, which is yet to be peer reviewed, also found older people, especially older men, are slightly less likely to receive CPR in private locations. When researchers looked only at cardiac arrests that happened in public places, such as on a street, the difference was greater. They said the lower rates of CPR in public were found in women regardless of their age. In a private setting such as a home, however, the study suggests with every 10-year increase in age, men were around 9 per cent less likely to be given CPR during a cardiac arrest. For women having a cardiac arrest in such settings, the chances of receiving CPR were around 3 per cent lower with every 10-year increase in age. Our study shows that women experiencing a cardiac arrest are less likely to get the CPR they need compared to men, especially if the emergency happens in public. We dont know why this is the case, said Alexis Cournoyer, one of the authors of the research. Researchers suspect this could likely be due to people worrying about hurting or touching women, or that they think a woman is less likely to be having a cardiac arrest. We wondered if this imbalance would be even worse in younger women, because bystanders may worry even more about physical contact without consent, but this was not the case, Dr Cournoyer said. While CPR can save lives, research suggested that not everyone who suffers a cardiac arrest gets the emergency care they need. Scientists hope to further understand what lies behind the difference to ensure that anyone who needs CPR gets it. By Daphne Psaledakis UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - World leaders meeting at the United Nations on Monday warned of the peril the world faces unless it acts with urgency to rescue a set of 2030 development goals to wipe out hunger and extreme poverty and to battle climate change. Their declaration, adopted by consensus at a summit before the annual U.N. General Assembly, embraces a 2015 "to-do" list of 17 Sustainable Development Goals that also include water, energy, reducing inequality and achieving gender equality. "The achievement of the SDGs is in peril," the declaration reads. "We are alarmed that the progress on most of the SDGs is either moving much too slowly or has regressed below the 2015 baseline." U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told the summit of leaders that only 15% of the targets are on track and that many are going in reverse. Earlier this month, Guterres called on G20 leaders to ensure a stimulus of at least $500 billion per year towards meeting the goals. He called on countries to act now. The leaders are meeting in the shadow of geopolitical tensions - largely fueled by the war in Ukraine - as Russia and China vie with the United States and Europe to win over developing countries, where achieving the Sustainable Development Goals are key. "Instead of leaving no one behind, we risk leaving the SDGs behind ... the SDGs need a global rescue plan," Guterres told the summit. The U.N. said this month that there are 745 million more moderately to severely hungry people in the world today than in 2015, and the world is far off track in its efforts to meet the ambitious United Nations goal to end hunger by 2030. The cost of meeting global targets rose 25% to $176 trillion during the year that ended in September 2022, with performance on several measures reversing, a report said last year. (Reporting by Daphne Psaledakis; Editing by Michelle Nichols and Howard Goller) First Chinese cultural center in Gulf region starts trial run in Kuwait Xinhua) 13:31, September 18, 2023 KUWAIT CITY, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The first Chinese Cultural Center in the Gulf region launched its trial operation on Sunday in Kuwait's Hawali governorate. "I hope this is not only a cultural center of China, but also a cultural center of Kuwait," said Moussaid Zamir, the Assistant Secretary General of the Kuwait National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, at the launch ceremony, adding Kuwait has always attached great importance to cultural development. The trial operation of the first Chinese Cultural Center in the Gulf region highlighted the special friendly relationship between China and Kuwait, said Chinese Ambassador to Kuwait Zhang Jianwei at the ceremony. It will lead the development of cultural exchanges between China and the Gulf in the new era and further consolidate the cultural foundation of the China-Arab community with a shared future, Zhang added. More than 100 people attended the ceremony, including Director of the Kuwait Chinese Cultural Center Xia Jianfeng, Kuwaiti officials, members of Kuwait's royal family, and representatives of Chinese enterprises in Kuwait. The guests visited the cultural center's reading room, culinary training room, music and dance classroom, Chinese language teaching room, and enjoyed Chinese traditional music and dance performances. Chinese oil company Sinopec held a book donation event during the ceremony. "I love Chinese culture, Chinese literature, history, and calligraphy," Kuwaiti royal family member Sheikha Anoud told Xinhua. "I have studied the Chinese language for over two years and read many Chinese poems. The works of poets such as Li Bai are very beautiful. Reading books not only helps young people increase their knowledge, but also brings a lot of fun," said Anoud. By conducting various activities such as Chinese language training, information services, image exhibitions as well as film and television shows, the cultural center will comprehensively introduce excellent traditional Chinese culture and tell the story of China's development. (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun) CAIRO, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- China's assistance in establishing Egypt's satellite assembly center as well as building a remote sensing satellite helps the country become Africa's pioneer in the space field, said Egypt's space agency chief in a recent interview with Xinhua. Sherif Sedky, CEO of the Egyptian Space Agency (EgSA), described Egypt's cooperation with China in the field of space technologies as "strategic" and "fruitful." "Egypt's cooperation with China in the field of space is long-standing, the most important part of which is the establishment of the Satellite Assembly, Integration and Test Center (AITC), the largest of its kind in the Middle East and Africa, in addition to the design and manufacture of the MisrSat II satellite," said the EgSA CEO. In June, two China-funded prototype satellites of the MisrSat II satellite project were delivered to the Egyptian side, making Egypt the first African country with the capacity to assemble, integrate, and test satellites. Sedky pointed out that the AITC and the MisrSat II satellite were established via a full grant from China. MisrSat II, the first satellite Egypt owns through a partnership with China, has been tested in the Arab country by Egyptian and Chinese engineers and will be sent later to China for launch, according to the head of EgSA. "There are seven basic tests, including those related to the space environment, the simulation of the launching process itself, the electromagnetic coverage, and the payload, all of which have been fully and successfully completed," he told Xinhua, adding that the satellite is currently ready for launch in December. "The space technology is a large and significant area of cooperation with China, and it has proven very successful," Sedky said. He explained that MisrSat II is a low-orbit imaging satellite that is meant to serve Egypt's sustainable development goals by photographing agricultural areas, urban development, changes in beaches, water resources, and existing mineral wealth. The Egyptian-Chinese cooperation in the space field is "very promising," and it has proven successful over the past years, said the Egyptian official. "We are very happy with our strategic cooperation with China, and we're looking forward to deepening it," Sedky added. The Writers Guild of America (WGA) and Hollywood studios are heading back to the negotiating table this week, as the workers strike stretches into its fourth month. The WGA negotiating committee posted the update on its website Monday. You might not hear from us in the coming days while we are negotiating, but know that our focus is getting a fair deal for writers as soon as possible, the group wrote. Well reach out again when there is something of significance to report. The negotiating panel urged union members to continue to picket in the meantime. The strike began May 3 after contract talks broke down. The writers are demanding better pay, job security and protections from the use of artificial intelligence. In its previous update on the stalemate last week, the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) acknowledged plans to resume negotiations. Every member company of the AMPTP is committed and eager to reach a fair deal, and to working together with the WGA to end the strike, the trade organization wrote in its update. The strike has ground movie and scripted television production to a halt and affected several programs. Talk show hosts Drew Barrymore and Bill Maher made waves last week with announcements that they planned to resume their shows amid the strikes. Both Barrymore and Maher have since reversed those plans after drawing intense blowback from union members. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A World War I-era plane flipped upside down onto its roof while trying to land near a military history museum in Massachusetts over the weekend, authorities said. The pilot was not injured. The Nieuport 28, a single-engine fighter aircraft flown during World War I, crashed at the end of the runway outside of the American Heritage Museum on Sunday, according to the Stow Fire Department. The museum is located about 30 miles west of Boston. An initial investigation into the crash found that the plane's front landing gear failed while its pilot, the only occupant, attempted to land at the museum's airfield just after 11 a.m. on Sunday morning, the Stow Fire Department said in a post shared to Facebook. Their post included an image of the vintage aircraft turned over with its wheels up in a grassy field. The pilot had removed himself from the plane before authorities arrived at the scene, Stow fire officials said. The Federal Aviation Administration will investigate the crash. "The pilot did not report any injuries but was evaluated at the scene as a precaution," the Facebook post said. The American Heritage Museum hosted a "World War I and Aviation Weekend" on Saturday and Sunday. The event series included flight demonstrations, history presentations and World War I reenactments, according to an online newsletter linked to the museum's website. "Featured aircraft this weekend include America's oldest flying original warplane, the 1918 Nieuport 28 World War I fighter along with three other historic, one-of-a-kind aircraft from WWII," the newsletter read in part. 5 Americans freed in Iranian prisoner swap Max Greenfield fights the fear of reading aloud with new children's book BET co-founder Sheila Johnson says writing her new memoir has helped her heal (Bloomberg) -- Over the summer, Beijing limited Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin to a single handshake with sanctioned Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu at a top military forum. Now, Lis drop from public view could help reboot senior-level military talks between the superpowers. Most Read from Bloomberg The Chinese defense chief is reportedly under probe after not being seen in public since Aug. 29 and missing engagements, fueling speculation hes set to be replaced. His removal would eliminate one major roadblock to military talks after Beijing made their resumption conditional on the US lifting its sanctions on Li. US officials have intelligence that suggests Li, 65, has already been removed from his post, according to a US official familiar with the matter who asked not to be identified discussing the sensitive issue. Neither Beijing nor Chinese state media has provided information on Lis status. Chinas Defense Ministry didnt respond to a request for comment on Monday. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said she was not aware of the situation at a regular briefing in Beijing. Chinas relationship with the US has stabilized in recent months after cratering in summer 2022 over then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosis visit to Taiwan. President Joe Biden has sent four cabinet-level officials to Beijing since June to rebuild communication lines and smooth the path for leader talks. The next opportunity for those is when Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to travel to San Francisco in November. US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met this weekend to discuss a possible meeting with Biden at the APEC summit, according to people familiar with Chinas preparations for the meeting. Lis removal could help thaw ties at the military level but it wont erase larger problems between the superpowers, according to Li Nan, a visiting senior research fellow at the East Asian Institute of the National University of Singapore. It may help, but it doesnt guarantee a smooth bilateral interaction, he said. There are still other reasons why the US-China relationship isnt going well. China froze top-level military ties in retaliation to Pelosis trip to Taiwan, long before Li took up his post in March. That lack of communication has prompted fears an accident between the nuclear-armed powers in the South China Sea could spill over into a broader conflict that would be catastrophic for the region and global economy. With Li in place, efforts to resume talks had reached a deadlock. China had cited the sanctions as an obstacle that should be removed before any exchange and cooperation could take place. The US said in May it had no plans to lift curbs on the defense chief, appearing to walk back Bidens earlier comment that such a move was under negotiation. Lower-level military ties have resumed in recent months. Admiral John Aquilino, who leads the US Indo-Pacific Command, met General Xu Qiling, deputy joint chief of staff of the Peoples Liberation Army, in Fiji last month, allowing for some communication. Now, China appears to have made the conditions for top-level talks more favorable, even if that wasnt Xis intention. Any change involving Li move would relieve Biden of the need to make an awkward choice between military stability with China and giving in to a demand from its key rival. Any removal of Li whose main role is the Chinese militarys top diplomat raises other questions about tensions within the Chinese government. Li would be the second minister to be abruptly stripped of his role less than a year into Xis third term following Qin Gangs abrupt ouster from the foreign minister post in July. Two rocket force generals were also purged this summer, also without explanation. While there are no signs the Chinese leaders rule faces any major challenge, such turbulence fans concern among investors and governments that Beijing is being increasingly hard to read. It sends a bad signal about Chinas governance, said Dongshu Liu, assistant professor specializing in Chinese politics at the City University of Hong Kong. These problems reinforce fears that China is unstable and unpredictable. It may also ignite concerns about political stability. Its too early to speculate over who might replace Li after the recent purges, he said. Its hard to know who can finally survive. The disappearances of Li and Qin didnt come up during the discussion between Wang and Sullivan this weekend, and the US official didnt raise the matter, a senior administration official said. Unanswered Questions With Lis status unclear, China watchers are now left piecing together clues of his situation. The defense minister reportedly skipped an annual meeting with Vietnamese military leaders earlier this month on short notice, with Beijing citing health reasons. That absence came after the Peoples Liberation Army in July announced a corruption probe into hardware procurement going back to October 2017 the month after Li took over the equipment department. Li is now under investigation for corruption related to the procurement of military equipment, Reuters has reported, citing a regional security official and three people in direct contact with the Chinese military. Whatever the reality, Lis downfall would raise fresh questions about the state of Chinas military as the world tries to ascertain whether Xi wants to invade Taiwan, the self-ruled island it claims as its own territory and whether the PLA is even capable of such a task. China sent a record 103 warplanes into the area around Taiwan in the 24 hours to early Monday, the latest reminder of cross-strait tensions. See: China Sends Record 103 Warplanes Near Taiwan Amid US Visits After an alleged Chinese spy balloon flew over the US at the beginning of the year, Biden said Xi wasnt aware of the aircrafts location implying the Communist Party leader didnt have full control of his armed forces. Any purge of Li so soon after being installed might also negatively reflect on Xis hold on the military, as his decade-long campaign to clean up the PLA looks far from over. Corruption remains a persistent problem, Bates Gill, executive director of the Asia Society Policy Institutes Center for China Analysis, wrote in a recent note. We have to question Xis ability to fully exert his authority over the vast empire that is the PLA. --With assistance from Colum Murphy and Lucille Liu. (Updates with quote in the sixth paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Its too early to know how the ongoing autoworkers strike will impact the U.S. economy, Treasury Department Secretary Janet Yellen said Monday during an interview with CNBCs Squawk on the Street . I think its premature to be making forecasts about what it means for the economy, she said. It would depend very much on how long the strike lasts, and exactly whos affected by it. Thousands of United Auto Workers (UAW) employed by the Big Three automakers General Motors, Ford and Stellantis have been on strike since early Friday morning, as negotiators continue contract talks. The workers are demanding higher wages, shorter work weeks and better benefits. The auto companies have said the demands would be too costly for the industry. UAW President Shawn Fain told news outlets Monday that talks with the automakers over the weekend made little progress, and that expanding the strikes was a possibility. Well see how things progress the next few days, and if we have to amp up pressure that is what were going to do, he told MSNBC. Yellen is not directly involved in the negotiations. The Biden administration has pressed for a fair resolution and plans to send White House adviser Gene Sperling and acting Labor Secretary Julie Su to Detroit this week to help reach a deal. We want to see the two sides come to a win-win agreement, Yellen said. President Biden has made clear he expects them to work hard to negotiate 24/7 to get to a solution, and so were hoping that that will happen soon. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. President Volodymyr Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska arrived in New York as the president plans to address the U.N. General Assembly and meet his U.S. counterpart Joe Biden, Zelensky announced on Sept. 18. While Russia's war against Ukraine is expected to be on the agenda of the U.N. gathering, The New York Times writes that the main focus will likely lie on challenges facing the Global South. Unlike the West, many countries in Africa, Latin America, and South Asia have been hesitant to throw their support behind Ukraine, instead nurturing economic ties with Moscow. Nations of the Global South have also decried the world's focus on Ukraine's struggle against Russia while they feel that their own problems, such as extreme poverty and hunger, receive little attention in comparison. Zelensky is expected to address the Assembly on Sept. 19 and attend a Security Council meeting a day later, which is meant to focus on the principles of the U.N. Charter. As Russia is a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will reportedly attend the meeting as well. "Territorial integrity of the state is a key principle of all basic international documents, including the U.N. Charter," Zelensky wrote on his Telegram channel. "And it is necessary to return to (the Charter) its full power destroyed by the Russian invasion and to strengthen the U.N's. capabilities in stopping and preventing aggression," he said, adding that Ukraine will present a clear proposition to the U.N. on this topic. Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support Us The president's first steps upon arriving in New York led to injured Ukrainian soldiers recovering in local hospitals. Zelensky said he will also attend the Sustainable Development Goals Summit and hold several bilateral meetings. After his New York trip, Zelensky will head to Washington, D.C. to meet with his U.S. counterpart Joe Biden, senior members of Congress, and other American political and military leaders. Zelensky's visit comes just as the White House seeks approval from U.S. lawmakers for $24 billion in additional funds to bolster Kyiv's struggle against Russia. Some members of Congress grow increasingly critical of the level of support that Washington provides to Ukraine. Zelensky has previously visited the U.S. in December 2022, meeting Biden and addressing Congress members. Read also: Ana Palacio: Rule-making in a divided world Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the United Statess financial support to Ukraine is more than just supporting the embattled country in its fight against Russia, but also a means to curbing Russian President Vladimir Putin s further global aggression. The United States of America [is] supporting Ukraine financially and Im grateful for this, Zelensky said in an interview with CBS Newss 60 Minutes. I just think theyre not only supporting Ukraine. If Ukraine falls, Putin will surely go further. Pointing to the estimated tens of billions that the U.S. has contributed to Ukraines war effort, CBSs Scott Pelley asked Zelensky if he expects that level of support to continue. What will the United States of America do when Putin reaches the Baltic states? When he reaches the Polish border? He will, Zelensky warned. This is a lot of money; we have a lot of gratitude. What else must Ukraine do for everyone to measure our huge gratitude? We are dying in this war. Look, if Ukraine falls, what will happen in 10 years? Just think about it. If [the Russians] reach Poland, whats next? A Third World War? Zelensky continued. When asked if it will take billions of dollars more in aid to prevent this, Zelensky said, I dont have an answer. The whole world [has to] decide whether we want to stop Putin, or whether we want to start the beginning of a world war, Zelensky continued. We cant change Putin. Russian society has [lost] the respect of the world. They elected him, and reelected him and raised a second Hitler. They did this. We cannot go back in time, but we can stop it here. The U.S. has provided billions of dollars in military and humanitarian support for Ukraine since Russia invaded the country in February 2022. Last month, the Biden administration sent a supplemental funding request to Congress including $24 billion in additional military and financial aid for Ukraine. The request included around $13 billion in defense funds to assist Ukraine, $9.5 billion for equipment and replenishment of Pentagon stocks and $3.6 billion for continued military, intelligence and other defense support. The Biden administration faces challenges from a growing number of House Republicans, who have expressed skepticism over the approval of more Ukraine funding. Zelensky is expected to visit the White House on Thursday as the Biden administration pushes for this increased funding. Biden has vowed that the U.S. will stand with Kyiv for as long as it takes for the embattled country to win the war. The visit will mark Zelenskys second trip to the White House in the past year, after he traveled to Washington last December to meet with Biden and deliver an address to a joint session of Congress. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in New York and has announced his participation in the UN General Assembly and other bilateral meetings. Source: Zelenskyy on Telegram Details: The President said that he is in New York and heading to visit the Ukrainian soldiers undergoing treatment and rehabilitation in the United States. He also announced his participation in the UN General Assembly, the Sustainable Development Goals Summit, the Security Council and bilateral meetings. In particular, Zelenskyy plans to hold talks with the President of the United States, with the leaders of the chambers and parties of Congress, with the military leadership and American businesses, journalists and community. Quote: "The territorial integrity of the state is a key principle of all basic international documents, in particular the UN Charter. And we must return its full force destroyed by the Russian invasion, and increase the UN's ability to stop and prevent aggression. Ukraine will make a clear proposal on this to the UN members." Background: On Thursday 21 September, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will meet with all US senators in Congress and deliver a speech, and then hold a meeting with US President Joe Biden in the White House. 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! CAIRO, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Egypt strongly condemned on Monday the incursion into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound by "extremists" under the protection of Israeli police. In a statement, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry called on Israeli authorities to immediately stop actions that provoke millions of Muslims across the world and ignite violence in the "occupied Palestinian territories." The statement said that recurrent assaults on the Al-Aqsa Mosque violate international laws and undermine efforts to revive the peace process based on a two-state solution. Egypt also renewed calls for influential international parties and the United Nations to adhere to their responsibilities to protect the Palestinian people's rights. "Egypt is fully committed to supporting the Palestinians' rights and backing all attempts to reach a fair comprehensive solution for the Palestinian cause," the statement added. The Israeli forces attacked Muslim worshippers on Sunday morning at Bab al-Silsila, also known as the Chain Gate, one of the main entrances to the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, the official Palestinian News Agency reported. Israeli media said there were no serious disturbances at the site, and only minor scuffles were reported between the police and Palestinians as Jewish visitors toured the site. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in New York on Sept. 18, beginning his visit by meeting with Ukrainian soldiers undergoing rehabilitation and medical treatment in the United States. First and foremost supporting our people and gratitude for those who help Ukraine and Ukrainians, Zelenskyy said in a Telegram post. Read also: Zelensky says Russians let Putin grow into a second Hitler, only the world can stop him now Up next busy and important days. The UN General Assembly, the Sustainable Development Goals Summit, the UN Security Council [meeting]. Substantial bilateral meetings are already lined up. In Washington, Zelenskyy is expected to meet with U.S. President Joe Biden, Congressional and military leadership, U.S. business representatives, and journalists. Read also: US Republican senators pressure Biden to speed up shipment of ATACMS missiles to bolster Ukraine's counter-offensive Zelenskyy reiterated that the territorial integrity of sovereign states is a key principle in all basic international documents, including the UN Charter. It is necessary to return full force to it [the charter], which was destroyed by the Russian invasion, and increase the UNs ability to stop aggressions and prevent them; Ukraine will make a clear offer in this regard to UN members," the president said. Read also: Our soldiers are heroes: Zelenskyy shares video of frontline visits Ukraines First Lady Olena Zelenska accompanies her husband on the official trip. She has planned several addresses at the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, negotiations with the WHO Director-General, and the opening (alongside UNESCO) of an exhibition dedicated to Ukrainian cultural heritage sites that are threatened by ongoing hostilities. Earlie media reports said Zelenskyy will also meet Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, Polish President Andrzej Duda, and Brazils head of state, Lula da Silva. 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 Drone strikes on Russian soil have disrupted life in Moscow, hit buildings, and destroyed planes. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told CBS that the strikes aren't done on his orders. But he said they show Russia that its "sky is not as well protected" as it thinks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that drone strikes on Russian soil show Russia that "your sky is not as well protected as you think." Zelenskyy was asked by CBS "60 Minutes" about drone strikes on Russian territory, which have increased in recent weeks. Drones have taken out Russian warplanes in airfields hundreds of miles from the fighting in Ukraine, and have also targeted Moscow, shutting down its airports. Zelenskyy said that the attacks were not carried out on his orders. But when asked about the message the drone strikes were sending, he said: "Russia needs to know that wherever it is, whichever place they use for launching missiles to strike Ukraine, Ukraine has every moral right to send a response to those places." "We are responding to them, saying: 'Your sky is not as well protected as you think,'" he added. Russia has been using drones and missiles in Ukraine to hit sites far from the front lines. Russia has blamed Ukraine for most of the strikes in its country, but Ukraine has rarely taken responsibility, in keeping with a general policy of not acknowledging attacks on Russian soil. Rebel groups within Russia that oppose the invasion of Ukraine and Russian President Vladimir Putin have taken responsibility for some attacks on Russian soil, but not the recent hits on warplanes. Zelenskyy also told CBS that Ukraine only uses the weapons it gets from its allies in the fighting in Ukraine, as it promised them. Earlier this month a top Ukrainian security official said that Ukraine was developing its own missiles that will be capable of hitting targets as far as 930 miles into Russian territory. Read the original article on Business Insider President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has commented on the slow progress during the counteroffensive during Scott Pelley 's 60 Minutes programme on CBS, saying it is now important for Ukrainian defenders to move forward, even if only for short distances, and not give Putin a break. Source: BS Quote from Zelenskyy: "We need to liberate our territory as much as possible and move forward, even if it's less than [half a mile or] a hundred [yards] we must do it. We mustn't give Putin a break." Details: Zelenskyy admitted that progress in the counteroffensive is slow, but he said Ukrainian troops are continuing to move forward, saying the front is like an artillery duel now, where the Russians and Ukrainians each fire 40,000 shells a day. Drone usage in the war has also slowed progress. "It's a difficult situation. I will be completely honest with you. We have the initiative. This is a plus. We stopped the Russian offensive and we moved onto a counteroffensive. And despite that, it's not very fast. It is important that we are moving forward every day and liberating territory," Zelenskyy emphasised. Scott Pelley also asked Zelenskyy what Putin is trying to achieve by killing civilians. "To break [us]. And by choosing civilian targets, Putin wanted to achieve exactly this to break [us]. This person [Putin ed.] who has made his way with such bloody actions, with everything he has said, cannot be trusted. There is no trust in such a person because he has not been a human being for a long time," Zelenskyy noted. Background: On Sunday, 17 September, Ukraines Defence Forces liberated the settlement of Klishchiivka on the Bakhmut front. 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 says world order is at stake in the Ukraine war. "If Ukraine falls, what will happen in ten years? Just think about it. If [the Russians] reach Poland, what's next? A Third World War?" Zelenskyy told Scott Pelley in a 60 Minutes interview that aired Sunday. "We're defending the values of the whole world. And these are Ukrainian people who are paying the highest price. We are truly fighting for our freedom, we are dying. We are not fiction, we are not a book. We are fighting for real with a nuclear state that threatens to destroy the world." Zelenskyy on U.S. funding for Ukraine against Russia Citing the roughly $70 billion the United States has contributed to Ukraine's war effort, Pelley asked Zelenskyy if he expected that level of support to continue. "The United States of America [is] supporting Ukraine financially and I'm grateful for this," Zelenskyy said. "I just think they're not supporting only Ukraine. If Ukraine falls, Putin will surely go further. What will the United States of America do when Putin reaches the Baltic states? When he reaches the Polish border? He will. This is a lot of money. We have a lot of gratitude. What else must Ukraine do for everyone to measure our huge gratitude? We are dying in this war." "What will it take?" Pelley asked, "Another $70 billion?" "I don't have an answer," Zelenskyy answered, "The whole world [has to] decide whether we want to stop Putin, or whether we want to start the beginning of a world war. We can't change Putin. Russian society has [lost] the respect of the world. They elected him and re-elected him and raised a second Hitler. They did this. We cannot go back in time. But we can stop it here." Zelenskyy on threats of nuclear war, 2024 U.S. election Zelenskyy says Putin will use the threat of nuclear war to stoke instability in the United States and Europe. "I think that he's going to continue threatening," Zelenskyy said. "He is waiting for the United States to become less stable. He thinks that's going to happen during the U.S. election. He will be looking for instability in Europe and the United States of America. He will use the risk of using nuclear weapons to fuel that [instability]. He will keep on threatening." Uncertainty surrounding the upcoming U.S. presidential election concerns Zelenskyy. Although he says he hasn't received some military aide fast enough, he has been grateful for President Biden's support. Zelenskyy on Ukraine's slow counteroffensive, drone strikes in Russia Zelenskyy admits progress has been slow in the counter-offensive, but says Ukrainian troops comprised mostly of draftees are moving forward. The 700-mile frontline has become an artillery duel with both Russians and Ukrainians firing 40,000 shells a day. Drone warfare has also slowed progress. "It's a difficult situation. I will be completely honest with you. We have the initiative. This is a plus," Zelenskyy said. "We stopped the Russian offensive and we moved onto a counter-offensive. And despite that, it's not very fast. It is important that we are moving forward every day and liberating territory." "We need to liberate our territory as much as possible and move forward, even if it's less than [half a mile or] a hundred [yards] we must do it," Zelenskyy continued. "We mustn't give Putin a break." Zelenskyy also commented on the drone strikes against Russia, which Ukraine doesn't officially acknowledge. "You do know that we use our partners' weapons on the territory of Ukraine only," Zelenskyy said. "And this is true, but these are not punitive missions, such as they carry out killing civilians. Russia needs to know that wherever it is, whichever place they use for launching missiles to strike Ukraine, Ukraine has every moral right to attack those places. We are responding to them saying: 'Your sky is not as well protected, as you think.'" With reference to the numerous non-military targets Russia has attacked, Pelley asked Zelenskyy what he thought Putin was trying to accomplish by killing civilians. "To break [us]," Zelenskyy said. "And by choosing civilian targets, Putin wanted to achieve exactly this to break [us]. This person who has made his way with such bloody actions, with everything he has said, cannot be trusted. There is no trust in such a person because he has not been a human being for a long time." Zelenskyy is scheduled to travel to the U.S. this week to address the United Nations General Assembly and visit the White House and Congress. Netanyahus push to weaken Israels Supreme Court divides nation | 60 Minutes Ukrainian President Zelenskyy warns of another World War unless unified steps are taken against Putin 60 Minutes travels to Israel to report on historic protests Your slice of the headlines in Ukraine. Daily. Monday, September 18, 2023. Zelenskyy to meet with Biden at the White House U.S. President Joe Biden will host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House on Sept. 21, U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said on Sept. 15. US to hold off on ATACMS missile announcement until after Zelenskyys Washington visit The administration of U.S. President Joe Biden is reportedly not planning to make a decision regarding the transfer of ATACMS missiles to Ukraine during President Volodymyr Zelenskyys upcoming visit to Washington next week, U.S. news website Axios reported, citing a source familiar with the matter. Brussels allows Ukraine grain import ban to expire The European Commission has decided against extending the ban on imports of Ukrainian grain to Poland, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, and Slovakia, the commission announced on Sept. 15. Court sets new bail for Kolomoisky at $103 million In response to a request from the prosecution, Shevchenkivskyi District Court of Kyiv has increased Ihor Kolomoiskys bail to UAH 3.8 billion ($103 million), Ukrainian legal news outlet Graty reported on Sept. 15. Poland bans entry of vehicles with Russian license plates Poland has joined the Baltic countries and Finland in prohibiting vehicles with Russian registration plates from entering its borders. Kadyrov in critical condition for several days Ukrainian intelligence The Kremlins puppet warlord in Chechnya, Ramzan Kadyrov, is in critical condition, Ukrainian Defense Intelligence spokesman Andriy Yusov said on Sept. 15. Russia reinforces defenses around Tokmak amid Ukraines tactical penetrations of invaders first defensive line Russian forces have in recent days likely reinforced their defenses around the occupied town of Tokmak in southern Ukraine, which is approximately 16 kilometers behind the current front line, the UK Defense Intelligence said in its daily Ukraine situation report for Sept. 17. Ukraines naval strategy opinion Geographically and historically, Ukraine is a maritime power, and now it needs to become one in fact. Our national security depends on it. Hrytsak ICRC confirms kidnapped Kherson mayor is POW in Russia The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has officially confirmed the prisoner of war (POW) status of the Mayor of Kherson, Ihor Kolykhaev, who was kidnapped by the Russians in June 2022, national broadcaster Suspilne reported on Sept. 17. Russian missile and drone attack hits grain storage in Odesa Oblast A grain storage and farmland were damaged by a combined Russian missile and suicide drone attack on Berezivs'kyi district of Ukraines Odesa Oblast in the early hours of Sept. 17, Odesa Oblast Military Administrations head Oleh Kiper wrote on his Telegram channel on Sept. 17. Thousands of Hasidic Jews gather in Uman for Prayer for Peace in Ukraine Thousands of Hasidic Jews, on their annual pilgrimage to Uman, Cherkasy Oblast, to observe Rosh Hashanah, came together in a prayer for peace in Ukraine at noon on Sept. 15, national broadcaster Suspilne reports. President Zelenskyy greets Ukraines Jewish community on occasion of Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy congratulated the Ukrainian Jewish community on their New Year, Rosh Hashanah, in his evening address on Sept. 15. NATO wants to increase ammunition production due to rising prices and high demand The sharp rise in ammunition prices means an increase in defense spending, which does not automatically increase the security of NATO countries, Dutch Admiral Rob Bauer, the chairman of NATO's military committee, said on Sept. 16, Reuters reports. Russia creates new mercenary company to lure back Wagner mercenaries, Ukrainian military says A new private military company has been created under the direct supervision of the Russian Defense Ministry to attract Wagner mercenaries, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry's National Resistance Center reported on Sept. 16. UK formally declares Russias Wagner mercenary company to be a terrorist organization The United Kingdom has officially recognized Russias Wagner mercenary company to be a terrorist organization, the UK governments press service said on Sept. 15 Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine A parasite that notoriously turns ants into zombies by infecting and taking control of their brains is even more cunning than previously thought, according to scientists. The lancet liver fluke parasite is capable of getting ants to avoid the suns deadly rays when the day gets too hot, enabling the insects to live long enough to spread the parasite further into other hosts, found researchers, including those from the University of Copenhagen in Denmark. The liver fluke can even get the ant to crawl back down the blade of grass when it gets too hot in the day, found the new study, published recently in the journal Behavioral Ecology. The parasite, whose lifecycle spans creatures like snails and even grazing animals like cows, is known for its ability to take control of the brains of ants, causing them to cling to blades of grass against their will. Ants infected with the fluke worm involuntarily move to and clamp their powerful jaws atop a swaying blade of grass, making the unsuspecting insect more likely to be eaten by grazers such as cattle and deer. Getting the ants high up in the grass for when cattle or deer graze during the cool morning and evening hours, and then down again to avoid the suns deadly rays, is quite smart, study co-author Brian Lund Fredensborg said in a statement. Our discovery reveals a parasite that is more sophisticated than we originally believed it to be, Dr Fredensborg said. The unsuspecting ant climbs up and clamps its powerful jaws onto the top of a blade of grass, making it more likely to be eaten by grazers such as cattle and deer (University of Copenhagen) In the new study, scientists tagged several hundred infected ants in the Bidstrup Forests near Roskilde, Denmark, allowing them to keep track of the insects for longer periods of time. They then observed the ants behaviour in relation to changes in environmental conditions such as light, humidity, time of day and temperature. They found temperature had an effect on ant behaviour. When the temperature was lower, ants were more likely to be attached to the top of a blade of grass. But when the mercury increased, ants relinquished the grass and crawled back down. We found a clear correlation between temperature and ant behavior. We joked about having found the ants zombie switch, Dr Fredensborg said. Previous research found that when a liver fluke infects the ant, several hundred parasites invade the insects body but only one makes its way to the brain. This single liver fluke parasite influences the hosts behaviour while the others conceal themselves in a capsule to protect themselves in the ants abdomen. We now know that temperature determines when the parasite will take over an ants brain. But we still need to figure out which cocktail of chemical substances the parasite uses to turn ants into zombies, Dr Fredensborg concluded. Advertisement New Delhi: Taiwans defence ministry called out Chinas militarys 24-hour mobilization of 103 warplanes as a recent high. The planes were spotted between Sunday and Monday morning, according to the ministry, and they turned around before they reached Taiwan. Nearly every day, although usually in lower numbers, Chinese jets fly towards the independent island. The Taiwanese ministry failed to define what it meant by a recent high. As tensions between the two countries and with the United States have increased, China, which claims that Taiwan is a part of its territory, has conducted a number of increasingly significant military exercises in the air and on the seas near Taiwan. The United States is Taiwans principal source of weaponry and opposes any effort to forcibly overturn Taiwans status. Here is quick infographic of #Chinas recent air force operations towards #Taiwan between 11-18 September 2023, as of the last 24 hours Taiwan detected 103 China PLA aircraft with many crossing the into its ADIZ, this being a record high ! pic.twitter.com/6kynBo7MvN Damien Symon (@detresfa_) September 18, 2023 The Chinese government wants Taiwan to submit to its reign voluntarily, and last week, it unveiled a plan for an integrated development demonstration zone in the province of Fujian in an effort to woo the population there while also militarily threatening the island, according to experts. This is part of Chinas long-standing carrot and stick strategy. Attempts to influence Taiwans presidential election in January may be the motivation for the most recent attempts. The Chinese government despises the current governments Democratic Progressive Party because it favours the islands legal independence. Candidates from the opposition who support cooperation with the mainland are more likely to win. The Defence Ministry of Taiwan reported that 40 of the aircraft had flown over the famous midway point between the mainland and the island. In addition to midair refuelling tanker planes, they contained more than 30 fighter aeroplanes. Nine Chinese naval ships were spotted in the regions waters in the previous day, according to Taiwan. According to the government, the Chinese military operation is harassment and could get worse given the delicate situation in the region. In a statement, it requested Beijings government to take accountability and promptly put an end to such unfavourable military operations. Taiwan and China were divided into two different entities in 1949, when Chinas communists captured the government after a civil war. As a result of their defeat, the Nationalists retreated to Taiwan and established their own government on the island, away from the mainland China. An 11-year-old boy was taken to a hospital with critical injuries Saturday when he was injured by a firework. The incident happened at a rural residence near Farragut. Farragut Fire and Rescue, Shenandoah Fire and Rescue and the Iowa State Patrol were assisted by the Fremont County Sheriffs Office at the scene. The incident is still under investigation, according to police. SEWARD Matthew 18: 6-7 If anyone causes one of these little ones those who believe in me to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea. Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to st NAIROBI, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), an East African bloc, on Monday provided Kenya with 8.95 million U.S. dollars worth of equipment to help strengthen disease surveillance at border points. Fatuma Adan, IGAD head of mission to Kenya, said the equipment, including seven laptops and 37 desktop computers, will significantly contribute to the country's Universal Health program. Adan, who spoke during the donation ceremony in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi, noted that digitization is an important pillar in strengthening systems, including disease surveillance systems. She said the IGAD member states are in the process of developing the national roadmap for data sharing and protection policy both at the cross-border and national level. The equipment will allow the flow of health information and data between the bloc member states toward containment and control of pandemics, and prevent propagation across borders. Mary Muriuki, principal secretary for public health and professional standards in the Ministry of Health, said the equipment aims to implement a regional, transnational and real-time monitoring and analysis system in the IGAD region. "Their significance lies in the vital role they will play in our mission to foster cross-border collaboration and fortify our response to the myriad challenges that afflict public health." She noted that the equipment will be instrumental in the quest to swiftly detect and contain outbreaks, preventing them from traversing the borders and jeopardizing the well-being of communities. Muriuki said the donation will not only expedite disease identification but also augment the capacity to deploy effective interventions, adding that the equipment will also equip scientists and healthcare professionals with the necessary tools for precise diagnostics and ground-breaking research. The Nebraska Broadband Office is moving to the next phase of efforts to ensure access to reliable broadband for all Nebraskans. As part of this effort, there will be ongoing public engagements across the state, including a series of nine public meetings and an open comment period from Monday We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. The Moroccan Ministry of Digital Transition and the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) have signed two partnership agreements, aimed at promoting the digital transformation of the administration and the digital inclusion of very small, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Morocco. The two agreements, worth 8 million, were inked in Rabat by Minister of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, Ghita Mezzour, and resident director of GIZ Morocco, Kathrin Lorenz, and project manager for eGov and DigiTPME at GIZ, Timo Muller. Covering the project entitled Digital Transformation of the Moroccan Administration, the first three-year agreement, worth 3 million, aims to support public administrations and institutions in modernizing citizen-centric digital public services, and to implement innovative approaches to cooperation with the digital ecosystem in order to accelerate the digital transformation of the public sector in Morocco. The second four-year agreement, worth 5 million, is part of the Digital Inclusion of Very Small, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises. It is meant to strengthen the technical and organizational capacities of institutional players in the field of digital inclusion of SMEs, as well as to put in place mechanisms to reduce transaction costs for service providers in order to guarantee the digitization of SMEs, while enhancing their ability to use appropriate services for their digital transformation. GiZ is offering its support and expertise in 3 priority areas, namely change management, through the development of a cross-functional support program for public administrations, listening to the needs and satisfaction levels of users, and the perspective of citizens and businesses. GiZs support also comes in the form of deployment and animation of a community of digital ambassadors within public administrations. With regard to the digitalization of the private sector, and taking into account the specificities of the national economic fabric, it is important to introduce SMEs to the potential for innovation, competitiveness and performance that digital technology offers, and to strengthen their ability to use appropriate services for their digital transformation. Spanish rescue workers and members of the international humanitarian organization Doctors Without Borders who took part in relief operations following the earthquake that shook several regions in central Morocco on September 8 have commended the professionalism, great logistical effort, and the swift and efficient response of Moroccan authorities on the ground to help the affected populations. Spain is among the four countries whose assistance has been solicited by Morocco to take part in the rescue operations, which also include Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom. King Mohammed VI himself explained that massive aid is not the best option, and that it is preferable to have aid that is useful, effective and well coordinated and with a meticulous assessment of the specific needs on the ground by those in charge of each affected area. Rabat justified its decision on the basis of the precise assessment made of the needs following the earthquake and bearing in mind that a lack of coordination in such situations could be counterproductive. On their arrival in Zaragoza on Saturday sept.16, after taking part in rescue operations with their Moroccan counterparts, Spanish firefighters and rescue workers from the Castilla y Leon region highlighted, in statements to the press, the professionalism of the Moroccan teams deployed on the ground and the level of coordination in carrying out rescue operations. The expedition leader, Enrique Mur, emphasized the role of the Moroccan authorities in ensuring that rescue operations and the search for survivors went smoothly. Other relief teams, in particular the Military Emergency Unit (UME), are continuing their mission in the areas affected by the earthquake. Earlier in the week, Spains Minister of Defense, Margarita Robles, praised the logistical support provided by the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) to Spanish rescue workers, enabling them to carry out their mission in the best possible conditions. Speaking during a visit to a military base in Guadalajara (central Spain), Robles welcomed the mobilization of FAR helicopters to transport Spanish rescue workers to hard-to-reach areas, as well as the collaboration of Moroccan authorities with the Spanish team to provide the necessary support to affected populations. Spanish rescue workers, particularly from the UME, will remain in Morocco for as long as necessary, she added, noting that the search teams from Spain were also delighted with the hospitality and support of the local population. In the same connection, the international humanitarian organization Doctors Without Borders praised on its official website the swift and efficient response efforts of Moroccan authorities as well as the international medical and humanitarian support teams. The organization commended the tremendous efforts being made in Morocco to provide relief in the earthquake-affected regions. The humanitarian organization expressed its satisfaction with the medical humanitarian response to the earthquakes aftermath, stressing that nearly all urgent and critical medical and humanitarian needs were addressed. The immediate and urgent medical and humanitarian needs were addressed in the days following the emergency thanks to the massive mobilization of the Moroccan authorities and the local civil society, Doctors Without Borders said in a statement posted on its website. The statement emphasized that Patients requiring medical care have already been transferred to the central hospitals in Chichaoua and Marrakech. Furthermore, initial aid such as food, water, blankets, tents, and other essential items have already been distributed to the majority of the locals in the earthquake-affected areas. John Johnson, Doctors Without Borders emergency coordinator, applauded the timely response and support provided to the affected residents and described the commendable efforts carried out by the Moroccan authorities and Red Cross Volunteers as an incredible mobilization. The international humanitarian organization also emphasized the importance of prioritizing mental health care for those devastated by the Al-Haouz earthquake, announcing that mobilization efforts for psychological support are underway in some regions, which we will assess as it is necessary to improve psychological support as part of ongoing intervention efforts. Approximately 15 individuals from Doctors Without Borders moved to the ground in Morocco. Their mission has been assessing the situation in Al-Haouz region and providing essential medicines in a number of villages. The rescue efforts are still underway as Moroccan authorities alongside international rescue teams continue their dedicated work to assist and support those affected by the earthquake. The devastating earthquake left nearly 3000 dead and over 5670 injured. King Mohammed VI has mediated conflicts across the Sahel, helped to negotiate over a hundred cooperation agreements and deployed more than 70,000 UN peacekeepers, said NATOs former Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe Richard Shirreff. In an Op-Ed published lately in the Financial Times, the British General said the Western security depends on Moroccos resilience and supporting the countrys plans to rebuild the Atlas Mountain villages and zones affected by the powerful earthquake that hit the North African Kingdom on September 8. Morocco has led every metric of economic development in Africa, added the former NATO Commander, saying the country is a fount of stability in the region. It is also the second-largest investor in economic development on the continent and a crucial guarantor of its food security. Morocco is a uniquely positioned ally and key strategic partner. As an intelligence and counter-terrorism partner, they have stopped more than 300 attempted attacks since 9/11, added the expert in military and geostrategic issues. He also highlighted Moroccos key role in combating illegal migration, saying that over the past five years, Morocco has taken down more than a thousand human trafficking networks and prevented upwards of 300,000 illegal crossings. Crucially, 45,000 immigrants have been integrated into Moroccan society, many from the Sahel. But above all, Morocco is a western-facing, Mediterranean country that appreciates the importance of civic reform and economic development, with a record of promoting both across the continent, said General Sir Richard Shirreff. He also touched on Moroccos realistic autonomy plan offered by the Sahara under its sovereignty, stressing that the Moroccan proposed plan, which is supported by the U.S. and other international allies as a solution to prolonged bouts of regional conflict, requires attention as part of a comprehensive strategy seeking to preserve regional stability and security. This strategy should be based on reliable partners and allies that share Western vision, have a stake, a voice, and a strategic position in the region, and can bring about real and lasting change, said the British General, referring to the North African Kingdom. King Mohammed VI has sent messages of thanks and gratitude to the leaders of the British, Qatari, Emirati, and Spanish rescue teams who have assisted with search and rescue efforts in the regions affected by the September 8 earthquake that struck Morocco. In separate messages to National Coordinator of the British International Search and Rescue Team Russell Gauden, to head of the Qatari international rescue team, Commander Khalid Abdellah Al Hamidi, to Head of the United Arab Emirates search and rescue team, General Ali Al-Mutawa, and to head of the contingent of Spains Military Rescue Unit, Lieutenant-Colonel Juan Saldana, King Mohammed VI praised the active and effective participation of the members these rescue teams who, alongside their Moroccan brothers, deployed all their efforts and resources during the search and rescue operations. The King expressed his heartfelt thanks for all the efforts made by these teams to provide assistance in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake in the High Atlas region. The Sovereign pointed out that the dedication and selfishness shown by these teams and their active participation have moved us deeply and profoundly, as they moved the entire Moroccan people. The Sovereign entrusted the heads of these teams to convey his sincere thanks and appreciation to all their respective contingents members, who have shown a keen spirit of solidarity to save lives, search for survivors and provide humanitarian aid. The affected families and, in fact, the entire Moroccan people, are deeply grateful for your dedicated work and for giving concrete substance to the lofty values underpinning humanitarian action, stressed the Sovereign, who expressed appreciation for their effective contribution in tackling the consequences of this terrible tragedy, pointing out that the Moroccan people will always remember the dedication, keen sense of duty and mobilization of these search and rescue teams in these difficult circumstances. In his messages to Commander Khalid Abdellah Al Hamidi of Qatar and General Ali Al-Mutawa of the UAE, the King underlined that their generous efforts and brotherly solidarity bear witness to their attachment to the supreme values of our holy Islamic religion, based on cooperation, solidarity and mutual assistance and embody the depth of the strong bonds of fraternity and active solidarity that unite their peoples to the Moroccan people. Following the tremor of September 8, Morocco had asked for help from Qatar, Spain, the UAE, and the UK. The King has expressed thanks to all the countries that had proposed their assistance but explained that massive aid is not the best option, and that it is preferable to get an assistance that is useful, effective and well coordinated after a meticulous assessment of the specific needs on the ground by those in charge of each affected area. Rabat justified its decision on the basis of the accurate assessment made of the needs following the earthquake and bearing in mind that a lack of coordination in such situations could be counterproductive. Frances Foreign ministry has suspended all international adoption procedures concerning children habitually resident in Burkina Faso by any person residing in France, Sputnik reports. This measure does not apply to procedures that have given rise, on the date of publication of this order, to a relationship by the Burkinabe Central Authority for the implementation of the Hague Convention of 29 May 1993, the ministry said in a decree. The move is an additional action stressing deteriorating of ties between the two countries since September 2022, after incumbent Burkina Faso Captain Ibrahim Traore rose to power in a coup. Since September both countries have traded blows. The African country in March denounced a 1961 military agreement with France, a few weeks after demanding the withdrawal of the French troops that were in the country to help fight terrorists. Last week, September 13, the French foreign ministry in agreement with the Ministry of Culture, banned the invitation of artists, students and researchers from Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger to French territory and suspended all cultural cooperation with these three countries. Two days after Burkina Faso ordered removal within two weeks of the military attache of the French Embassy in the country, Emmanuel Pasquier, accusing him of subversive activities. Ndong Sima, the Transitional Prime Minister of Gabon made his first foreign visit last week to attend the G77+China Conference in Havana, in Cuba. Ndong Sima represented Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, the leader of the transition in Gabon who toppled former leader on August 30 in a military coup, Gabon Review reports. The two-day G77+China Summit concluded on Saturday September 16 with a call for more participation of the Global South in the global governance system. The event was attended by delegations from more than 100 countries, including over 30 Heads of State and Government. G77+China is the largest multilateral coordination organization among developing countries and accounts for more than 80 percent of the worlds population and over two-thirds of UN member countries. KHARTOUM, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and a local armed group exchanged fire on Monday evening in Port Sudan, the capital city of the Red Sea State in eastern Sudan, said a military source. "A limited clash broke out between the SAF and forces affiliated with the Eastern Sudanese Parties Alliance in Port Sudan," a military source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity from Port Sudan. The armed group set up a checkpoint on Deim Medina Street, which was later forcefully removed by the SAF following a gunfire exchange, said the sources, adding that no causalities were reported from both sides. The Sudanese army controlled the situation and restored order, according to the source. Sudan has been witnessing deadly clashes between the SAF and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the capital Khartoum and other areas since April 15, resulting in at least 3,000 deaths and more than 6,000 injuries, according to the Sudanese Health Ministry. The 7-magnitude earthquake that struck Morocco on September 8 lifted land around the epicenter up 20 centimetres, according to Japanese scientists. Deformation of land was confirmed in an area about 50 kilometres east and west and 100 kilometres north and south of the epicentre, the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan said. Its analysis of the September 8 quake in Moroccos high Atlas mountains was based on data from the earth observation satellite DAICHI-2. Across the high Atlas many springs sprouted after the tremor while other sources that have dried up long ago saw water pouring again. Moroccos geophysical centre has warned that aftershocks are still ongoing near the epicentre, asking citizens to be cautious. Last Thursday, a 4.8 magnitude aftershock was felt in the High Atlas up to Marrakech city. The 8 sept. earthquake left 3000 people dead and destroyed at least 50,000 homes, notably in the provinces of Al Haouz, Taroudant and Chichaoua. Conservative MP James Duddridge said he has been struck by Moroccos remarkable ability to respond swiftly and effectively to the devastating earthquake that shook the North African Kingdom. In an Op-Ed published in the Telegraph daily, the former UK minister for Africa said that Morocco has once more shown its resilience in difficult times, and that the country has responded with steadfast determination and calm decisions, under the leadership of King Mohammed VI. Emergency measures in Morocco were taken from the first moments following the earthquake and included the intervention of the royal armed forces, local authorities, security services, as well as the relevant ministries, said Mr. Duddridge. In the short span of 48 hours, Morocco partially reopened a vital route to the earthquake-affected area, creating a lifeline for aid delivery to the hardest-hit regions, he added. The countrys military helicopters have continuously engaged in rescue and relief operations, while Moroccans have rallied in a remarkable grassroots effort to assist those in need. The Moroccan King paid a visit to the injured at a hospital, where he checked in directly on the care being provided and donated his blood in solidarity with the victims, said the former UK minister, noting that these rapid measures of relief were just the beginning. Within three days of the earthquake, Moroccos government set up a national solidarity fund. Countries worldwide, along with national and international NGOs, initiated donation appeals and various leading organizations in Morocco made generous donations to the fund. Beyond the immediate care for the injured and restoring access to remote mountainous areas, royal directives were issued that included measures aimed at not only rebuilding but also completely transforming and upgrading the affected areas, while also preserving the local culture and heritage, stressed the MP of the ruling Conservative party. The royal directives were clear and simple: All resources must be effectively mobilized to ensure that no one is left without shelter. Moroccos response is extensive, ranging from immediate care and the provision of emergency temporary housing to the rapid initiation of reconstruction efforts, said Mr. Duddridge. He cited in this regard the program which targets around 50,000 homes that have either suffered complete or partial collapse across the five affected provinces. Emergency temporary housing, prioritizing structures built to withstand harsh weather conditions, also include financial aid of approximately 2,500 for affected households. To support immediate reconstruction, financial assistance of up to 11,000 will be available. Special provision has been made for those children orphaned by the earthquake. They have been fast-tracked as wards of the nation and qualified teams are seeking early adoption by appropriate families, said the UK MP. As Morocco pledges to rebuild in the aftermath of the earthquake, we can anticipate further strong measures that will not only benefit the victims, but also turn this terrible challenge into an opportunity for the progress and resilience of Al Haouz and its neighboring regions, underlined Mr. Duddridge. Moroccos long friendship with many countries has led many to provide help immediately. Im delighted that the UK was one of the first, mobilizing its international search and rescue team to provide life-saving support, said the former member of UK government. Morocco has done so much for other nations, and it is heartwarming to see this reciprocated, he stressed, affirming that the greatest support which can be given to Morocco and its courageous people is to engage even more fully than before. Photo-Illustration: Intelligencer; Photo: Courtesy Simon & Schuster Kara Swisher couldnt wait to interview and cross-examine her longtime friend Walter Isaacson about his new biography of Elon Musk, but she did wait to do so until after the reviews, and fact checks, had all come out. In the latest episode of On With Kara Swisher, she finally gets her showdown, armed with not only her own criticism but everyone elses as well. Below is the full transcript of their long conversation, in which Kara presses Isaacson on how and why he wrote the book and tries to get him to respond to nearly all of the complaints thus far. Kara Swisher: So Ive really been looking forward to this. I really have. I first want to say congratulations on the book. Its getting a ton of attention and will no doubt be a best seller for many weeks ahead, or months. But I have to say its turned out as I expected it would when we talked in New Orleans. As you remember, we had kind of a tough interview and we had disagreements, which is fine. Let me just be clear. Walter and I are friends. We have disagreements, just like friends, and this is a professional disagreement. So, I just want to know: Are you ready for a hard-core interview?! Because hard-core is what lifes all about, apparently. Walter Isaacson: Hard-core is what Musk keeps talking about. Swisher: Thats ridiculous. Isaacson: When I walked into that Twitter headquarters, everybody was psychologically nurturing and friendly. Swisher: Yes. Isaacson: And he said, We got to be hard-core. I guess I can expect youre going to do that. Swisher: Please its hustle porn, is what I like to call it, along with entrepreneur porn and everything else. But let me read you my mini-review of your Musk bio: Sad and smart son slowly morphs into mentally abusive father he abhors, except with rockets, cars, and more money. Often right, sometimes wrong, petty jerk always. Might be crazy in a good way, but also a bad way. Pile Obabies. Not Steve Jobs. Youre welcome. And that is my review of your product. Isaacson: I read it. Swisher: And? Isaacson: I sort of nodded. Swisher: Yeah. Isaacson: And I said, Okay, let me go through each and every word. Its like, wow. Maybe I should have had you write the last chapter. Swisher: Yes, I should have. So lets talk about it. How would you characterize the reception and reaction of the book in general? How would you characterize it? Isaacson: Well, hes got so many fanboys that think he walks on water, and hes got so many enemies that think hes truly evil. And I was kind of surprised that most of the reviews and most of the discussion was pretty straightforward. I mean, there were some critical reviews, like the one on The Guardian that I think you pointed out. That was a thoughtful, legitimate criticism of the book. Now, maybe because my wife is shielding me from it or something, I havent seen things that were massively unfair. But let me tell you something. My daughter told me, After the book comes out, just shut off reading what is now called X. So, I havent seen what may be either wet kisses or darts being slung at me on that platform. Swisher: So, youre not on X. Youre not on X right now. Isaacson: Im on, but I havent gone Swisher: Gone searching for yourself. Isaacson: I dont go through the notifications anymore. Swisher: Right. Well, its mixed, I would say. And a lot focused on you. Have you heard from Elon about the book? Isaacson: No. A couple of text messages I mean, a couple of postings he did on X. I know I either read or saw where he said that he hadnt read the book, and jokingly said Walter told him not to read it, which of course has some virtue of truth because I said that I want to ride along with you; I want you to be totally transparent. Let me in every meeting, but you have no control over this book, and I dont want you to read it in advance. Swisher: Right. So, no private exchanges. I know you were with him a few days ago with Lex Friedman, right? Isaacson: I did the Lex podcast, and afterwards we were together, and somewhat oddly he didnt talk about the book. I didnt talk about the book. It was, um Swisher: So, you ended cordially, you have ended Isaacson: I guess. Elon Musk is not an emotionally connective, nurturing, or whatever, person. It was a little bit just very professional as its always been. It hasnt been like he either hugs me or slugs me. Swisher: Not yet. Have you heard from other sources, like Errol Musk, his father? Isaacson: Yeah. Swisher: What has he had to say? Isaacson: I think he sent me pictures of the kids when they were young, looking fit, and he said, How could anybody think that I treated them badly or psychologically badly? That said, Ive had many communications with him over there, because he is somewhat of a Darth Vader, I guess, in the book. And he sent me many pictures over the years. And I tried, in the book, to allow him to have his say, even though Kimbal Musk, Elon Musk, Tosca Musk, Maye Musk obviously say that he was very psychologically dark at times. Swisher: Absolutely. Well get to that a little bit more in this. But I first Ive got to go to the news, actually, the factual accuracy about Elons decisions about Starlink in the Ukraine in September 22. In the book, you detail it was an inaccuracy, actually. You detail, upon discovering the Ukrainian military was planning an attack on Crimea using drones powered by Starlink, Elon secretly told his engineers to turn off coverage within 100 kilometers of the Crimean coast. Elon denied this, saying there was no coverage to turn on. Instead, he said, he refused to act upon a request, from Ukraine presumably, to reopen the Starlink access. Isaacson: And let me just tell you a story, because Ive tried to be as transparent as I can. It was one evening, and he told me that they were launching the secret attack, a drone attack, drone submarines, using Starlink. And he was not going to allow it. He was not allowing it to happen, that the subs were going to wash ashore because he wasnt going to allow them to use Starlink. I made a mistake of thinking he made that decision that night. In fact, what he did that night was he just reaffirmed that decision. As youve seen in the book, there are all these text messages: You got to turn it on. And he was saying, No. So I should have said it, and Id now say, instead of He turned it off, that he reaffirmed the decision to have it geofenced. And I do think Im not trying to be too defensive, because Ive tried to be real open about this. I dont think it really changes it that that night, he gets to decide whether or not Ukraine gets to attack Crimea, and who put this power in his hands? And if you read the rest of it, because its all text messages, its not just Crimea, the 100-kilometer geofencing there, which he reaffirmed, as opposed to started, that night. But hes actually changing in the Donbas, in Eastern Ukraine. Swisher: Yes. Thats right. Isaacson: And better off as saying things like, This is my home village, my parents are there. You cant tell me thats an offensive thing when we go there. So its larger, and I wanted to make very clear: Okay, the geofencing had been in place and the decision that night was to deny the Ukrainian request but it gave him a lot of power. Swisher: Yes, it certainly did. It obviously required a correction because it was a Washington Post excerpt, and you have said youve made a mistake here. You went online to tweet a correction or clarification: They asked Elon to enable it for their drone sub-attack for the Russian fleet. Musk then did not enable it because he thought, probably correctly, it would cause a major war. I get the need for the correction. But did you have to add probably correctly? It seemed that really Isaacson: Yeah, I dont know. Swisher: That struck me as Isaacson: First of all, one point that I was trying to make, which is why it was so dramatic at the time, is the Ukrainians did not know it was geofenced. They did not know that there was a policy in place saying, 100 kilometers, your subs are going to go out. Thats why they thought that this had just happened that night. What Musk told me, and hes apocalyptic, as you know. He believes that everything is either the end of the world or the greatest success for humanity. And so he believed that had there been a Pearl Harborlike sneak attack that sunk the Russian fleet in Crimea, that that wouldve led, he said, to a nuclear war. Swisher: Why did you say Isaacson: I did not believe that, and thats why I didnt put in, Probably correctly, a nuclear war. I just said it was going to lead to major Swisher: All right, but why would you say probably correctly? Because it was a major war. They invaded their country. It was Isaacson: Definitely a major war, yeah, that Russia invaded Ukraine. The question is whether then all of NATO, and it becomes a much wider war with perhaps tactical nuclear weapons. Ive got a lot of interest in the Ukraine War, and I support Ukraine. I do know that there is a Russian law and doctrine, that an attack on the homeland will lead to a certain type of response, including I dont want to Swisher: Which theyve done elsewhere, and it hasnt led to nuclear war. Isaacson: Right, right. And I think, had the entire Russian fleet in Sevastopol been sunk by a whatever you call, sneak attack, Pearl Harborlike attack, that that would have escalated things. Swisher: All right. Let me get to a better question. What does it reveal about his power intentions and why is he in this position, of which hes entirely unqualified? Its just guessing, Walter. Come on. He doesnt have Isaacson: Why is he in the position to turn off or on Swisher: Specifically. What does it reveal about his power? DOD should be making these mistakes or non-mistakes. He shouldnt be in that position. Isaacson: Yeah. I mean, I dont give him advice, but that night I said, like any normal person, Have you talked to General Mark Milley, the head of the Joint Chiefs? Have you talked to Jake Sullivan, national And he goes, Yeah. And they ended up talking. Now, he has said, and I dont know this because he didnt tell me, but he said it subsequently, in the past few days, that had they made a request for him to turn on Starlink, he would have done so. I dont know. Im just telling you that this is his mind-set about the power. But I thought it was weird that he had this much power. And so what he does after talking to them, and I think but you may push back at me it was the right decision, which is: All right, Im going to make a deal. SpaceX is going to make a deal with the U.S. Defense Department and its intelligence agencies, and we are going to outright sell a certain number of Starlinks to the Defense Department, to the CIA, and were even going to create a military version of it, which I dont know exactly the difference, except for that its more sharply focused, and call it Starshield, and the U.S. government gets to decide how its done. Swisher: Right. Isaacson: Well, thats actually the right outcome. Swisher: Yes, presumably. Its another issue of why the Defense Department found itself in this really uncomfortable situation. Isaacson: Now, let me go there if you dont mind. Swisher: Sure. Isaacson: Because you asked, How did we get in this position? And this is not a defense of Elon trying to bestride the world. But why is it that when Russia invades Ukraine, ViaSat doesnt work? These are just denial-of-service attacks the Russians are doing. The U.S. military has no, Ukrainian military has no communication, theres only one set of communication satellites that withstand the attacks by the Russians. And so one reason hes in this position Swisher: Or maybe they didnt attack it, but go ahead. Isaacson: No, no. As far as he told me Swisher: He told you. Isaacson: And you could say, he said, We had hundreds and hundreds of attempted attacks from the Russians, but Starlink didnt go down. The Russians were trying, of course they were trying to take it down. I mean, they were trying to knock it out and they didnt. So this is not a defense of him bestriding the world, but what the hell is NASA doing? What the hell is the Defense Why cant ViaSat? Why cant Boeing? The solution to this is other people should be able to make Jeff Bezos and Amazon, theyve not got any of their satellites in orbit. Hes in this position. And by the way, U.S. intelligence satellites, the ones the CIA and the intelligence [community] put up into high-Earth orbit, the only way they can get into high-Earth orbit is the Falcon Heavy. And SpaceX. Swisher: Yes, Im aware. Isaacson: NASA cant launch them. Boeing cant launch them. So if you want to fix it, you got to have competing companies, and you also have to understand, for better or worse, how did Musk end up being the only person whos got 5,000 satellites, got rockets that can take things into high-Earth orbit, rockets that can reland and reuse themselves? Thats what the book is about too. And I know that seems like Im praising him. But it is true. Boeing Im sure its run by really nice people but Boeing cant get astronauts into orbit. Swisher: I think one of the things I am finding missing, even though you say it, its not quite as explicit as I expect it, which is it doesnt grapple with all the different kinds of power in the hands of one unelected, unaccountable, and I go so far as to say, unstable, in many ways, individual. Were seeing it writ large constantly on Twitter, even if it might be performance art. Ronan Farrows New Yorker article did grapple directly with this, As a matter of consequence for our national security and democracy. Did you feel you should have leaned into this more? Isaacson: I think youre right that I do say it in the book and I think you could say its a valid criticism. I dont lean into it more and say it much more vibrantly. But I do, Ill say it right now: I think an unelected official having control over the only communication satellite, and deciding on that night whether to enable disable or not enable, as I got right in the book, both the attack on the Crimea and also in the Donbas I dont think it should be in the hands of one unelected person. And Ill say it even further: an unelected person who is mercurial, has a global epic sense. And I say it, and if you want to, and your criticism I know is I should say it more loudly and say it more often. Someday Im going to write a book called Burn Book, and Im going to say everything really loudly. Swisher: Well, Im going to be really loud, but is he unqualified? Do you think hes unqualified to make these decisions? Isaacson: I think yeah. I think Im unqualified. I think that anybody now, who thought that somebody of your or my generation would say we should leave this to the CIA and not I grew up worrying about that. But now I think, No, the U.S. government, its intelligence agencies have the intelligence, meaning the information, to make decisions like this. It shouldnt be me. It shouldnt be Jeff Bezos. It shouldnt be Elon Musk, and Ill put Elon Musk even more in that category because hes more mercurial. And of course in Burn Book, you would use a tougher word than that than most people. Swisher: Well, well get to that. All right. One theory offered by that L.A. Times review by Brian Merchant was this kind of idle framing of Elon Musk, which happens. He describes there may be a tacit pact between author and subject in the Isaacson great man biography: The author will unearth unflattering personal anecdotes and share stories about the subjects capacity to be cruel. In exchange, the subjects greatness will be treated as an assumption, the raison detre for the book itself. In honor of Isaacsons habit of using pithy, memorable phrases to describe a phenomenon, we might call it the Isaacson Accord. Is there an Isaacson Accord? Isaacson: I didnt read all that. I didnt read it, but theres some merit there. Swisher: That made me laugh. Isaacson: I cant remember the, uh Im not sure I want to dub it that but well call it the accord. I havent seen that. But yeah, you read the first part, which is that I share or recount or tell a lot of stories that show the dark side and how bad he is. And then I think the commentary is that I also then show that he is an important, influential, consequential larger-than-life person. I think I cop a plea to that, meaning I hope I show over and over again the lack of empathy, the jerkiness, theres a word that begins with A that Im sure is in Burn Book. Swisher: Asshole. You can say it. Isaacson: That I actually use in my book many times, about Swisher: He called me an asshole. Isaacson: He called you one? Swisher: Oh sure, yeah. In an email. Isaacson: Okay. But I do talk about him being not only mercurial but at times just going from weird personality to weird personality. And I think there are enough tales, probably more than enough, that show the difficulty, the assholicness or whatever the adjective is, in the book. And yeah, as you say, the essay you quote says in return, I, we talk about he has had Swisher: Its a deal you make to get that access. I mean, I think its over access journalism. Isaacson: I do think hes had an incredibly large impact as well. Swisher: Certainly. Yeah. Isaacson: So I dont know exactly the nuances of what that commentary is. But yes, its true that I wouldnt be writing about Elon Musk had he not been the only person who can get astronauts into the Space Station. Swisher: Sure. But let me ask you about the accusation of access journalism listen, Ive been subject to it, But in this unique way, is this the danger of access journalism that you, one, start to like the person or gets more sympathetic? Isaacson: Well, no, I dont go around liking Musk. Heres the question of access journalism: Youve got to keep in mind every moment of the day and every paragraph that you write that youre writing for the reader, not the subject. And youve got to sometimes hold yourself back because youre not caring, whats he going to say after the book comes out, or what is he going to feel about it? And I do that, but its hard. I mean, youve got to work at that. And if you read the book, as you said, there are enough stories that show the dark side, the mercurial side, the problematic side, the way he treats people. And I dont try to excuse it.And yeah, when you have access, that can be a problem. But I learned that when I first worked at The Times-Picayune and then Sunday Times of London, I used to think you had to get close. And sometimes journalists these days dont do that as well, meaning just sit and listen and just watch and make sure you can be up close. But I learned from the late Harry Evans, who was my editor in London, that you can have access as he did to the top realms of power. But then you could put out the story as you saw it. Ive watched some of the great access journalists, people only I can remember like Hugh Sidey, even Ben Bradley. Swisher: Certainly he was accused of that with John F. Kennedy. Isaacson: And then watch Woodward and Bernstein, and you try to make sure you can be a little bit more like Woodward and Bernstein, which is get people to talk, but try to keep the reader in mind. Swisher: Although hes been accused of, recently, access journalism by you can see who he likes and who he talked to in a lot of his books. But I want to get to your reflections on the process in a minute. Were going to jump into the book. Walk me through your framing. You set it all up. It was interesting when I read the beginning in your prologue with Elons upbringing and obviously chronological start to the biography. You continue to reference it constantly in the book, this childhood in South Africa, bullying, violence. Why did you start with this? Because it started to feel by the end of the book like an excuse, and I kept thinking: I had a bad stepfather, I dont do these things. So many people have bad childhoods. Isaacson: A lot of people have bad childhoods. And they probably have a few demons in their head. Im not sure you do. Swisher: Not these kind of demons. No. Why did you start with this? Isaacson: At the very beginning I talked to his mother, Maye Musk, and she says, Heres the issue for your book: The danger for Elon is that he becomes his father. And I talked to Kimbal Musk. Hes like, Hes a drama addict, hes addicted to storm and it comes from this deep violent childhood. I dont know that it seems like it excuses him because it shows this inability to just sit back and savor success. That he is addicted to having dramatic confrontations. And even I dont know whether its Grimes or Talulah Riley, its in the book, his second wife or his on-again-off-again girlfriend, who says from his childhood, he associates love with drama and sometimes harshness. Swisher: So you feel like its explaining it. Did it make you spending time with Errol helps you understand this? Obviously I try to meet everybodys parents because I think ultimately it sometimes boils down to that quite easily. Isaacson: Can I quote Obama? And Im sorry to interrupt you. Swisher: Go ahead. Isaacson: It is true. One of the things every biographer knows is its all about the parents. And Obama has that at the beginning of his memoirs, I think every successful man is either trying to live up to the expectations of his father or live down the sins of his father. And in my case its both. I think whether its Nixon opening his memoirs with a sentence; Im not sure he understood the meaning of it. It was a simple sentence, which is, I was born in a house my father built. Or Bill Clintons opening sentence. A lot of powerful people who have demons in their head it goes back to Rosebud. Swisher: Yeah, but does it make you more sympathetic? I mean, I do know his mother too, who can be a handful, let me just say. Isaacson: And so can you. Swisher: Yes, I get it. But it does feel like its a bit of an excuse. You use the word manchild in the book. I have used the word adult toddler to describe Elon. I do grok that childhood defines us. I absolutely do. I think its critically important. But do you worry this framing of Elon as a child absolves him of the accountability he deserves as a 52-year-old man? Isaacson: Well, (a) it doesnt absolve him. And so let me make that clear. And I think its clear in the book with many anecdotes. But this is a complicated thing and I think you and I talked about it in New Orleans back when we were eating crawfish and drinking whiskey which was, when you understand a person, in other words you try hard to understand, does that morph into a gray area where youre trying to justify? And I kind of try to understand the demons that dance around in his head. Does that justify him being an asshole to people? I hope I can say, No, no, no, no, no. But part of the job of a biographer is to say, I want you to understand where all this is coming from. Swisher: Yes, I get it. But you also allow everyone else to say it as if its the only thing. And every time I read one of them saying, Oh, but its his demons, whether it was Grimes or whatever, Im like, Get him to get therapy for fuck sake. Isaacson: He doesnt go to therapy. Swisher: No, really? Youre kidding. Youre kidding. He doesnt go to therapy. Well, these people are continually making excuses and one of the issues I have is theyre all paid by him. But one of the things that I also wondered about is fact-checking these stories. I know from my own family, everyones family, everyone has a different point of view of what happened. There was a kid that punched Elon and Errol tells you that the kids father had just died, and I believe of suicide, and Elon told him he was stupid, and Elon and his brother dispute that and say the kid ended up in juvie. Talk about your sourcing, and do you think the brother of your subject is a credible second source, for example? Because I have heard Elon call people stupid over and over and over again and I can imagine if someones father just died, there might be something happening there. But thats populated by his side. Isaacson: I think youve recounted what I did in the book accurately, which is I tell the story as Elon saw it, then I talked to Errol. And in that case I have to lay it out for the reader: Errol says, No, no, he called the boy stupid. Of course I took the side of the boy and heres why. And you know what, Musk once said to me that in any situation with a police and a perpetrator, you have three stories: one side, the other, and the truth. I sometimes have to say to the reader: Heres what Kimbal says. Heres what Elon says. Errol says it differently. Swisher: Did you call this kid? Or call the juvenile-detention center? Isaacson: That was, you know, 45 years ago, and I was not able, or I dont know whether the kids still around. But you write, on things like that you try Look, I talked to, what is it, 150 people? Every time he did something and you move on if I can move on a second from the childhood he does this over and over again. He said he learned to punch people in the nose, and I show him punching people in the nose. So when it happens to say John McNeil, when it happened to Martin Eberhard, co-founder of Tesla, John McNeil, former president of Tesla, when it happened, I can go through Swisher: You did go back to that. Well, the only reason is because he hangs a lot on that he was bullied. And then if you didnt talk to the kid or the juvenile-detention center, why put it in there if you cant confirm either one of their Isaacson: Well, first, all sides, even Errol says he was beaten up, he was in the hospital. Swisher: Yes, I get that. I get that. Isaacson: His face got smashed. Swisher: I get it. Isaacson: The only question is, should you take the side of the guy who smashed his face Swisher: Or explain it, or explain that part. Isaacson: Or explain it. I did. And I said that according to Errol, Musk called him stupid. And you know what? Youre right. Musk does it. So does Bill Gates. So does Bezos. They use the word stupid a lot. And so its understandable there, and there is no doubt that all of this bullying and getting beaten up happens as nobody says Errol said, Oh, but I gave him a great childhood. But yeah, this Veld School, this wilderness camp, of course, people sat on you and they beat you up. Thats the way we were in South Africa. Swisher: I wouldnt have put it in if I couldnt confirm it, I wouldnt have, but thats just me. Isaacson: Well wait, wait, wait. I dont want to fight too much. But nobody denied that the whole incident happened. And I let Errol say, almost confirming what Elon says. Elon says, I had to stand there and my father betrayed me and took the bullys side. And Errol said, Yeah, he had to stand there. I berated him. I took the guy who beat him ups side. Swisher: Yes he did. Isaacson: So I think everybody has the same story there. Its just should the dad have taken the side of the guy who beat him up even if Elon called the guy stupid? Swisher: Yep, I get it. I get it. Isaacson: Which he probably did. I agree with you on that. Swisher: It does give Elon sympathy from the beginning. But I want to do a lightning round of things that were not in the book actually and understand why they were omitted. It seems like you didnt speak to Elons daughter Vivian Jenna Wilson, who is trans. Isaacson: I tried. Yeah, I tried, and I dont want to go too much into it, but communications through family members and so there are quotes from her. And what she said, and the messages even on Christmas and Swisher: Why didnt you want to go into it, given he has posted several, what I would characterize as anti-trans statements? Isaacson: Oh yeah, no, I do go into all that. Im just not sure I want to tell you who gave me her text messages. Swisher: Okay. Did you try to reach out to her directly? Isaacson: Yeah, I asked people, Can I get to her? Swisher: And you couldnt? Isaacson: Couldnt. Swisher: Okay. Brian Merchant pointed out that there was also not a single mention of the sweeping allegations of racial discrimination at Teslas flagship Fremont factory that resulted in juries finding Tesla liable for millions in damages. Workers of color say they were called the N-word and saw swastikas painted on the bathroom. There were a lot of sexual harassment allegations at Tesla. Why not go into this more? Isaacson: Yeah, I think thats a valid there are lawsuits against it, I probably could have gone more into that. It wasnt something that anybody accused Musk of specifically or personally or anything. It was just things that happened at the Fremont factory. And Ill cop a plea. Except for that, there was really no Musk involvement. If Id been writing a book about Tesla, it wouldve been more important, but Swisher: Okay, well I think the DNA of every company is the DNA of its founder, but hes not the founder Isaacson: Hes got seven companies, too. Swisher: Yeah, thats true. All right. [Musks] use of drugs seems to be missing, which has been written about a lot about recently. You mentioned he smoked weed on Joe Rogans podcast, but thereve been multiple reports on the effects of ketamine and Ambien. Hes even talked about Ambien use and perhaps more. It seemed nowhere to be found. Isaacson: Well, I think there was some stuff, and then you and I talked about it. Swisher: Yeah, we did. Isaacson: You had stronger evidence than for better or worse Swisher: I just heard from people, I wish someone would report it. And then the Journal finally did. The Journal finally did. Isaacson: Yeah. The Journal did some stuff. I have in the book, about drugs and prescription drugs and Ambien and everything else. Ketamine, he says, is an effective treatment for depression, and its prescribed. So he does prescription, whether it be ketamine, prescription serotonin-uptake inhibitors. I have him talking about maybe being bipolar, but not being diagnosed. Swisher: He has said this about himself. Isaacson: Right. And so thats all in the book. And he does, well, lets say self-medicate, but with prescriptions. Swisher: Is it being used in a clinical setting for him by a real doctor, not I want some ketamine. Im going to prescribe it myself? Isaacson: You can be a judge of real doctors, but there are people who have doctors who prescribe it. Swisher: Michael Jackson had a doctor that didnt turn out very well. Isaacson: Yeah. Look, one thing I will say is because of SpaceX clearances, security clearances, ever since the Joe Rogan thing where he smoked dope on the podcast, he is subject to random drug tests for illegal drugs. Now, that doesnt mean it would pick up ketamine, nor would it say, Hey, that doctor who prescribed it, was that sort of a charlatan doctor you just found and paid or is that a real doctor? Swisher: Right. You never went to raves with him or the stuff he likes to go to you? I dont mean to say parties. Isaacson: Raves? Swisher: He likes to go to raves. Isaacson: Yeah. Okay. Swisher: You didnt socialize with him, correct? Isaacson: I had to keep a bit of a line, and I watched some people around him and some people who worked with him who kind of crossed the line a bit and late at night would think, Okay, Im his party pal. And I had to make some judgments. There are times I went out to dinner with him, but I didnt want to pretend to be some pal who partied with him. And if I crossed that line and started going to late-night parties But let me say something else Swisher: Yeah, Walter Isaacson at a rave is not something I want to see. Isaacson: No, it wouldnt be a pretty sight. Swisher: No. Isaacson: Look, Ive got gray hair. Ill take you to Jazz Fest. But look, Ive been a reporter a whole lot and you always hear these stories of, Oh, somebody not Musk went to Jeffrey Epsteins island or had wild sex orgies with whole lots of drugs and they spent all night having sex orgies. You asked me how do I put in the fact that both his father and he say he was beaten up by a bully and they have different opinions on whether he deserved it? You cant throw in that Somebody says, Somebody said, I went to a Swisher: Im wondering if you discussed it directly with him, use of drugs. Isaacson: Yeah. He actually talks about that hes not as much of a party person, that he goes down to Cabo and he doesnt like it and he flies back. I suspect, because Ive asked him about it that hes far less of a party animal than people say. But maybe thats projecting because Im not as much of a party animal as some of your friends. Swisher: Okay. All right. Im just curious. Theres a lot more talk of it lately, thats why. One of the other ones was [what] Jennifer Szalai raised in her review in New York Times, when Elon was rambling onto you about the woke mind virus. This is in the way of his ambitions for multi-planetary civilization. She says, it would have been nice if Isaacson had pushed him to answer a basic question: What on earth does any of it even mean? Isaacson: Look, people, you say the woke mind virus and people say, What do you mean by that? And I try to explain it, but again, Im progressive. I know that wokeness is one of those subjects that means you say the word and everybody scatters all over the place. I think I make it pretty clear in the book what had gotten him upset and also make it pretty clear I think its a weird apocalyptic thing for him to be worrying about. Swisher: Yeah. Okay. Another one is from Voxs Constance Grady. She writes he goes through women. Isaacson chronicles the four major romantic relationships of Musks adult life with a shamelessly misogynistic binary. All Musks girlfriends in this book are either devils or angels, and accordingly they bring out either the devil or angel in Musks uncontrollable nature. You had written, he developed a fervor that blocked his goofiness and a goofiness that cloaked his fervor. I think you were harder on Amber Heard. And I dont know Amber Heard. Isaacson: I think you tweeted that out. I think I saw that. Swisher: Yeah. But go ahead. Isaacson: Amber Heard I talked to quite a bit and her sides in the book. Look, Im not an expert on this, but in the periphery of my vision, I kind of followed the Johnny DeppAmber Heard thing. Were talking about people that are excitable. I dont know what you want to say. So that whole situation with Johnny Depp, you can see that shes dramatic. Now, Musk talks about her in the book as playing wonderful things, roleplaying as his favorite whatever video-game character. And I have scenes of her picking flowers by the side of the road and hiding in the Tesla factory to surprise him on his birthday. But the storm and turmoil that both sides tell me about, this is not a matter of dispute, that was part of the attraction. And Im telling that as part of a theme, that this guy even leave aside Errol Musk and say maybe I do too much on childhood. Part of the theme of this life is this person is attracted to drama and storm. When things are calm, he surges, he buys Twitter or whatever. So this is true of the relationship with Amber. Nothing hurt him more than that relationship, and theres a scene at the end when they just have a not knockdown, because were not talking physically here but brutal fight in Rio de Janeiro and shes claiming that hes locked up my passport. I get her side. I get his side. I get the security guards side. I get everybodys side. And in the end I talk about her saying, she sends me pictures of that night after they made up, and theres a picture in the book and theyre kissing on a balcony in Rio at midnight on New Years Eve. So Im trying to illustrate not Amber Heard. Im giving her, I hope, her say and the benefit of the doubt, and I think she says something like, Elon loves playing with fire and sometimes it burned him. Swisher: Yeah. I get it. I get it. Isaacson: This is all an explanation of a guy addicted to drama and storm. Swisher: Okay. So one of the things in that regard is this cruelty and asshole behavior seems somewhat excused because he manages, somehow, to replace a rocket part with a toilet latch. Wow. Amazing. I fully understand. Isaacson: Wait, wait. Im not going to cop a plea of that. Whoa, Im going to stop you. I dont say you get to be an asshole if you get to make a rocket latch or whatever. I say this is a person whos doing all these things and you have to figure out, how does the fabric weave together? Swisher: And you dont think you give him a pass. Some of his partners do with, I think it was Grimes saying, I tried to stop him from being king crazy. I was like, Why is he king crazy? Isaacson: I know. I love that. Swisher: Except why is he like that? Why? Why does he need a lady to help him not be an asshole? That, to me Isaacson: Why is he king crazy? I mean, thats what the book is about. Swisher: No, what I mean is that abrogates his responsibility as a man. Isaacson: By the way, it was Talulah who gets credit for trying to keep him from being king crazy. I like Talulah. I like Grimes a lot too, but Swisher: So you dont believe the cruelty has to be linked to his accomplishments. Isaacson: No, I dont think the cruelty is justified at all, but with complex people youve got to tell the complex story, and I dont think, and I know you and I talked about this a year ago and so it helped me write the book, which is dont put any sentence in that says that this cruelty was in any way justifiable because he made a latch to a rocket hatch better. Swisher: Thank you. Im going to bring in Steve Jobs here because sometimes you do seem to be arguing that their demons create the creation, I guess. Many people have excused Elons behavior to me like this. Marc Benioff and I had a long back-and-forth. He basically said its okay because he lands rockets on a surfboard, except when I actually pointed out the homophobic remark he made, and then hes like, Oh,thats not good. And Im like, No, its not. Isaacson: Its not. Swisher: I can think of many geniuses who arent assholes. How far does the, and Im not necessarily just accusing you of doing this, go to support toxic assholic behavior in people? You have a quote, I think from Grimes: Demon mode causes a lot of chaos but it also gets a lot of shit done. Do you believe you have to be an asshole to get things done? Isaacson: No. And I have written many books, from Jennifer Doudna to Ben Franklin, of people who are as nice and nurturing as you can be. In fact, if you have a criticism of Benjamin Franklin, meaning John Adams does, its that he was too ingratiating and insinuating. In other words, he tried to be too nice, seemed to get people to like him. What Steve Jobs once said to me, he said, People like you I mean, he was talking about me who wear velvet gloves and live on the East Coast. I dont think hed been down to New Orleans with us knowing which coast I actually live on. He said, Youre always trying to get the people in front of you to like you, and youre always being empathetic, and you always want to be their friends, and you never want to get them mad, and you think thats being nice. Well, thats kind of egotistic. Its being nice to yourself because youre not caring that much about the enterprise. I think theres some balance, and Im going to get personal here for a moment and you can decide its too boring. When I ran Time magazine, you remember back in those days. They were nice magazines on paper and stuff. Swisher: They were. Yeah. Isaacson: I knew everybody there and I just loved all the people I worked with. Swisher: You have a very nice reputation there. Isaacson: Yeah. And it was sweet and we never had to fire anybody because the magazine was doing well, and then I get moved to CNN, which is owned by the same company, and once again, I dont want to get people mad. I want to be known as being nice. But you know what? I was really bad at running CNN. It needed to be disrupted. People needed, I wont name names, but you can think of some of the anchors and some of the people there. I needed to have been more of a disruptor, more of an asshole than I could be. Swisher: I dont know if you need to Isaacson: But I needed, actually, to leave CNN as well. Swisher: Okay, thats exactly remember I told you that. Isaacson: Thank you. Ive taken your advice many times in life. Thats why I was surprised you criticized me. Swisher: No. Thats okay. This is the 90s and aughts, by the way. Nineties for Time and early aughts for CNN, for people who Isaacson: Your listeners dont even remember that century. Swisher: Yeah. Dont remember it. Yeah. Im not even going to bring up what you did with Pathfinder. Isaacson: You just did. Swisher: Lets talk about Steve Jobs, because I thought you were much harder on him for much lesser behaviors and zero crazy tweets, none of which spilled out into the public. I dont find him anything like Steve Jobs, and you, I mean Isaacson: I dont either. And by the way, look, I thought one of your criticisms would be because I saw you wrote about that I dont apply too many judgments. I tend to have my own judgments. Swisher: Yeah. Isaacson: I weave some of them in, but I let a reader say, Okay. Ive just read this story. Heres what I feel. I tried to do that with Jobs. I really liked Jobs. I really respected him. Swisher: Me too. Isaacson: I thought he did an amazing thing. I thought he parked in the handicap space, and I thought, But thats not tweeting, what youre talking about. So most people who read the Jobs book, I sell I mean even last night, I was at the 92nd Street Y and everybodys bringing me the Jobs book to sign. They said, This changed my life. This guy totally inspired me. This is the most important book because I just wanted to be like Steve Jobs. I fell in love with him. So I dont think you come away from the Jobs book, other than saying he gets mad at the person making the smoothies at the Whole Food or he parks in the handicap spot I think Jobs is very much exalted as an epoch-changing character who had his rough spots. Elon Musk is at least one order of magnitude more more in being rough and in some ways more in running six or seven companies doing all sorts of weird things. If you read this book, about a third of the people who read this book will come away hating him more and a third will come away liking him, and I think a third will maybe say, All right. That was a really weird narrative and Im going to have to process it. Swisher: I think actually Jobs wouldve abhorred Musk. Actually, I say that. I think he wouldve because of the way he behaves in public particularly. What do you think Jobs wouldve thought of Elon Musk? Isaacson: I think he wouldve truly not liked the political and public non-niceness. I dont think that the way he treats Andy Krebs on the rocket launch pad and yells at him or the way he treats Don McNeil sometimes, when hes lying on the floor of the conference room in a catatonic state. But I think there was a spiritual quality to Steve Jobs that had a gentleness when it came to, I dont know, public matters. Help me here. Swisher: Yes, he was. He was actually a very wise person. Ive been listening to a lot of our recordings and his interviews and hes thoughtful and doesnt say I agree he could be a jerk to people. Isaacson: Yeah. I mean, Musk is very hard-core, and I think especially when Musk veers off to his late-night politics, Ill call it, because there are times when youre with Musk even Swisher: Very reasonable. Isaacson: Today hes with Chuck Schumer, or yesterday Swisher: He was calm. Isaacson: With Chuck Schumer and Chris Coons, the democratic senator from Delaware, and hes saying, therell be times he said to me, I really want to get a party of the center. I want to bring people to I think weve lost the center in this country. Swisher: He is lying to you. Isaacson: Then late at night hes drinking Red Bull and taking Ambien and hes amplifying the fringes. Swisher: Theres an expression, does the drunk agree with the sober? I think hes lying to you when hes sober. I think the drunk is exactly who hes become. Isaacson: I think that theyre actually different personalities, and I sometimes think that one personality hardly remembers things that, especially when he gets into the Mr. Hyde mode of Jekyll and Hyde. Swisher: Sure. I get that, but hes not Mr. Hyde and hes not Its like, again, Im in the seek therapy mode of this. Now, let me ask you this. You said in one interview you were silent in the reporting. And I utterly, completely thats exactly the way to go, like a camera even. Thats what you were trying to do. But now I want you to be a photograph. I would like you to take a position on him. Going away from two years of spending time with this man, what do you think of him? And let me just say, when my book I come to conclusions about people I like. I have a whole chapter of people I like because I think you have to have that. Sam Altman. I personally like Reid Hoffman, Brian Chesky. Specifically, do you like this person and what did you come away feeling about him when you finished? Isaacson: Well, a couple of points. Youre right to say I dont want to get in the way of the reader making his or her own judgments. And so sometimes Im telling you the story, Im quiet, you get You know, one of the first great biographies, the first great biography I ever read was when I was about 17 years old. T. Harry Williams on Huey Long. And it begins with an amazing, funny anecdote of Huey Long. Hes a Baptist from upstate Louisiana going down to Cajun country where its Catholic and talking about Sunday mornings and hitching up the horse to the wagon so he could take his Catholic grandmother to mass. And finally his campaign manager said, Huey, you never told us you had a Catholic grandmother. And he says, Hell, we didnt even have a horse. He lied. And then but T. Harry Williams doesnt say, So he was a liar, or doesnt say, He was a lovable rogue. Swisher: Okay. Right. Isaacson: You get to read these angles. So Im not trying to say to the reader, Heres your conclusion. Now youve asked me a question about Swisher: The book is written, Walter. You dont need to talk to Elon Musk anymore. Theres a point Isaacson: Hes not listening to your podcast, I suspect. Swisher: Yeah. I doubt it. Isaacson: And no, but Im telling you because I know you and I have had this discussion, which is how come you dont tell us your conclusions on everything? Swisher: Yes, I would like a conclusion from you. Isaacson: And I dont write Burn Book, I write a narrative, I walk a person you can help me state Swisher: Okay. All right. But what about on a personal level on this show? Isaacson: On a personal level, first of all the word like its such an anodyne word. I mean, I dont quite I mean, likability is not in the top 500 adjectives one uses. And I know you dont fully buy into what Im saying here, but there actually are different As Grimes said, It depends on which Elon you happen to be with. And there are times when he really is inspiring about his mission. Swisher: Absolutely. Isaacson: Okay. And youve seen it. Youve written that. Swisher: I like SpaceX Elon. Sure. Isaacson: And hes inspiring about the missions and the very first when he was doing that, I thought: This is a type of pontification you do on pep talks for your team or on podcasts. He doesnt really believe that we have to be multi-planetary. And after a while Im going, You know what? It may seem crazy, but he actually believes that we should be space adventurers or we should move to the era of electric fields. Swisher: Sure. Isaacson: I like, once again to use an anodyne word, when Im watching him do that, when Im watching him be really funny, when Im watching him make a pretty major decision about how youre going to switch a line on the assembly line to, I mean, a station on the assembly, I go, Whoa. Im impressed by that. Then therell be times when, I mean, Im surprised hes letting me sit in the room, but hes just reaming somebody out for not knowing the what he calls the idiot index of a part, which is how much the material costs versus the final product. Im going, Man, how can you do that to that guy? Dont like that? No, I didnt like that Musk. Am I supposed to tout up all the times I liked and respected and all the times I flinched at a fault? Swisher: Yes. Isaacson: Yeah, it was Swisher: Let me give you an easier Scott Galloway calls it an idolatry of innovators that excuses cruelty, that excuses antisemitism, excuses misogyny, excuses being quite frankly not an ideal father as long as youre really fucking rich. Is it an apologist not to come to a conclusion or not? You dont have to disagree with Isaacson: You know, I mean, I come to a lot and I let the reader come to a lot of conclusions in this book, which is a lot of the things look. Youve read those Twitter chapters. What he did, the hypocritical things of trying to ban reporters on the Washington Post after he says hes for free speech. A lot of those things he does, I think, clearly, is not me apologizing for him. It gets back to this saying of, Okay, if you send rockets to Mars, does that allow you to be an asshole? And no, I dont defend being an asshole, but he is also an interesting character and even Scott would say, and certainly you would, that hes been able to recreate the internet in low-Earth orbit. Hes been able to make rockets that not only get satellites into orbit and humans into orbit, unlike NASA, but they land and he can reuse them. Swisher: Sure, but Walter Isaacson: I go on and on. That doesnt excuse him being a jerk, but you got to tell the whole story. Swisher: Jennifer Doudna will have more impact on the human race and shes a lovely person. Isaacson: I loved writing that book and I would love you to tell your readers if you dont like Elon Musk, buy The Code Breaker because she does Swisher: No, none of this. All right. Okay. You wont take a position on him. Thats fine. Were almost done. I want this to be very quick, so I need to answer yes or no or if you have one little thing to say, do it. Isaacson: I got it. Swisher: Do you think Elon has a point about the woke mind virus, yes or no? Isaacson: Im sorry. Ill try. I think its overblown. Do you mind me answering just enough? Swisher: Sure. Please. Go ahead. Isaacson: And Ill be pretty crisp. I thought he was totally wrong when he was appalled that, at Twitter, they had suppressed or kicked off people who said that the lockdowns are ridiculous or that it could have been a lab leak or that, these things. And then I began to think, Well, maybe we should have had that debate on lockdowns and mask mandates. Do I think the woke mind virus is a problem? In some places. Is it in the top 100 problems this nation has? Probably not. Swisher: Okay. Isaacson: Im sorry, thats not one of them. Swisher: Thats okay. Thats good. Do you think he should rectify how he treated Twitter employees, in particular people like Yoel Roth, whom he made a dangerous target, or Paul Pelosi, for example, who he lied about after his attack? Isaacson: Yes. Swisher: Yes. Okay. Isaacson: I could survive with the one word answer there. Swisher: Yes. Okay. Isaacson: Yes on both counts. Swisher: Will he? Isaacson: He kind of says he He deleted the Pelosi tweet and said he apologized. Swisher: He did publicly, but he didnt. He said he also told somebody he called him, but he didnt. Just didnt. Isaacson: Yeah, he did it publicly, but sort of, yes, whatever. I do think he knows that it was absolutely a really bad thing to have tweeted, but that doesnt mean that hes apologizing for it. Swisher: A month later hes doing someone else Isaacson: On Yoel, theres a lot on Yoel in the book. This is a truly decent person. Swisher: Yes, yes. Indeed. Isaacson: And Elon gets along very well with him for a very long time, including defending him from being a Hillary supporter and attacking Trump and then Musk turns on him in a way that just still makes me flinch. And I know you dont like me going back to childhood, but its being at that wilderness camp and just punching people in the nose unnecessarily. And yeah, the Yoel thing, if you think Im sugarcoating and being too nice to Elon Musk, read the whole part on Yoel Roth, who was a good man. Swisher: I get that. I get it. I think he was a piece of shit to do that. Thats what I think. Isaacson: I heard you on that, yeah. Swisher: And theres no excuse. Elon was a piece of shit to do that. Do you think his fear of population decline and the need to repopulate the planet Earth is rational? I have four kids, he has 11, but Isaacson: I do think that the danger of overpopulation is incorrect. That declining birth rates are a problem. Swisher: Okay. Do you think we need to be a multi-planetary civilization, Walter? Isaacson: Man, that would be so cool. Yes. Swisher: Yes. Okay. Where do you think Tesla will be in five years given quickly increasing competition from across the globe, especially in China? Do you think itll be tough? Isaacson: I think they will have a low-price global car under $25,000. Thatll be huge. I think he will not conquer full self-driving as quickly as he thinks. You and I both have joked about his but he has just switched, as you know from one of the final chapters of my book, to AI machine learning and that has made FSD 12 particularly good. So I think Tesla Swisher: You think Tesla will be dominant in five years? Isaacson: Yeah. So, I mean, you look at what happened with the charging network. Swisher: No, dominant? Isaacson: Dominant meaning I think it will Swisher: Low-margin business. Isaacson: Huh? Swisher: Its a low-margin business, but okay. Isaacson: I know, but now GM and Ford are having to say were going to use the Tesla Supercharger network, which, thats into the Starlink thing. It gives him more control. Swisher: Gives him, okay, but Tesla will be dominant compared to all the competitors. Isaacson: I dont know what you exactly mean by dominant, but it will be Swisher: What he is now. Isaacson: Well, hes now more valuable than all other car companies combined, all other Swisher: Im going to take the other side of that bet. I think Chinas going to run right over him. And then therell be competition for everyone. Isaacson: Okay, okay. The good thing about being a biographer is you get to write about whats happened. Swisher: Blaming of the ADL for the Twitter ad falloff and now hes meeting with Netanyahu because he needs someone to make him look like he doesnt dislike Jewish people. What do you think of that? Isaacson: Wrong. Totally wrong. And the falloff on Twitter ads is not because of the ADLs, its because hes made it so its too controversial that no brand wants to be there. So wrong, no, or whatever the answer is. Swisher: What do you thinking of them dragging Netanyahu in to make him look good? Isaacson: My sympathies for Netanyahu having to do things or whatever it is. Not the highest on my list today. Swisher: Oh, yeah. Yeah, exactly. Do you wish that he hadnt done the Twitter thing while you were writing the book because it took so much away from the other story? Isaacson: Well, it certainly made for a really rollicking, amazing, complex roller coaster. Swisher: Okay. Too much. Isaacson: But yeah, if I wanted to have lived an easier life, it wouldve been more fun to write just about batteries and cars and rockets. Swisher: Comment on his recent comments on China, which were also reflected in your book about the Uyghurs and the need to placate China. Isaacson: Yeah. He is more in the camp of, lets placate China. He has obviously both huge amounts of sales and factories there, but Im not sure its just financially motivated. I think he actually believes a confrontational stance to China is, and I think I agree with that, I think is not a great idea. I think weve got to figure out how to have a modus vivendi with China. Swisher: Interesting. I think we need to get along. We also need to punch them in the nose. See? We have a different opinion. Isaacson: Hey, well, in some ways I think we might be Swisher: In the nose. See, we have different opinions. Isaacson: Hey, well, in some ways, I think we might be agreeing there, which is compete and Swisher: A real punch in the nose, actually. Isaacson: Oh, Im not sure the punch in the nose leads to a great end of the movie. Swisher: Thats true. Fair point. How do you assess the Twitter files now that he made such a big deal of, which proved pretty much a goose egg? Isaacson: I think it was way overblown, and I disagreed with the premise that it showed the U.S. government forcing Twitter executives to do things. Even though I do think Twitters suppressed, a little bit too much, the range of speech. But what I feel is not that the government violated and tried to suppress it, but that the Twitter executives went along willingly, day after day, banning people per request. And I thought that was a bad act. I mean, not a great thing that the previous Twitter management did, and Im kind of glad it all got exposed. But it was as you say. Swisher: Do you think hes let too many people back on and is not moderating correctly, which is leading to the ad falloff, for example? Isaacson: I think the ad falloff is because its become more controversial. Im not sure He has a thing about freedom of speech, but not freedom of reach. Swisher: Thats not his. Thats an old, old Isaacson: No, I know. Swisher: By the way. I love when he takes credit for it, but its not true. Isaacson: Well, okay. Ill give whoever credit for it. Swisher: Years ago. Isaacson: Letting more people on doesnt bother me. What bothers me is when he amplifies the people, or likes or engages with the people who engage with people who are antisemitic or white supremacist or whatever. I dont think Musk is that way. Im not even sure you should keep Donald. I dont think you should keep Donald Trump off. But if there are people saying bad things, I think the big problem is hes kind of engaging with them and letting them be amplified in reach. Swisher: In letting them, hes amplifying himself. All right. Having spent two years with Elon, would you let this man have access to your brain via Neuralink? Would you hand him your personal emotion for an everything app? Isaacson: Im not as big of a privacy I mean, lets leave it aside, it being Elon. Swisher: No, I dont want to leave aside. Isaacson: Okay. Well, I dont think Elons going to be sitting there saying Heres what Walter spent money on last night. Im like my daughter and her generation, Im not as much of a privacy I mean, I love privacy. I just meant, Im not worried about people having some access to my data as long as I can turn it off. Swisher: All right. Okay, last one. Do you think theres ever a time Elon wasnt trying to manipulate you during the interviews? Was that a difficult thing? Hes very persuasive. Isaacson: It was pretty odd that he almost did not seem to or at times, did not even seem aware of my presence. I know youre going to think thats weird, but Id be sitting there, hed be doing things that I wouldnt do in front of my wife. I wouldnt do in front of myself. Swisher: Tell me what. Isaacson: Oh, reaming people out, saying weird things. I worried about the Heisenberg principle that by observing things I would affect the things, and I was stunned and people around him were stunned. They said, We thought if you were around it would affect him, but it hasnt. Swisher: So you were just a fly on the wall. All right, let me ask you, I have only three more questions. Who does Elon really listen to? You mentioned open-loop warning when hes behaving badly that his brother does. Who do you consider his actual advisers who, let me just say, are not bought and paid for? Isaacson: Yeah, the open-loop warning is interesting, because theres an agreement amongst friends and brothers and other people that when you go really bad and this starts in 2018 you think theres been kind of wackiness? Swisher: No, I remember 2018. Isaacson: Yeah, 2018. Pedo tweet, take private, smoking dope on Joe Rogan. And thats when his brother Kimball uses the phrase they use, which is open-loop warning which means you dont have a feedback loop. Swisher: Hes looping, yeah. Isaacson: Youre shooting off something and its not an iterative feedback loop. The people who have that ability with him are Antonio Gracias, whos been there since the very beginning. Swisher: On the board. Isaacson: And has tried to take his phone and put it in the hotel safe and punch in a code so he couldnt tweet at night and says, Youve got to stop doing things. Kimbal, but Ill also say he doesnt have enough. There arent enough people to give him negative feedback, and he sometimes cuts them off, cuts Kimbal off in the book for months on end. So obviously being more open to negative feedback and restraining influences would be Swisher: So just two people? Isaacson: You would add to the mix if you could. Swisher: You were mentioning just two people. All right. Where will he be in 30 years? Isaacson: Well, I can throw Swisher: Okay, who else? Isaacson: Well, theyre a crowd that youre not particularly fond of thats like, David Sachs. Swisher: So you think they have an influence on him? Isaacson: I dont think David Sachs is in any way controlling his thinking. Musk does that. Swisher: No, an influence, thats all. Isaacson: But he talks to him a lot, and I could I think Ken Howery, but I also think his Well, Grimes, sometimes, or Shivon. He has people around him. But Im agreeing with you. Look, I got a lot of people around me who every time I go on a podcast like yours, listen to it and say, Man, you shouldnt have said that. Or, For Gods sake, dont I get a lot of feedback. I dont think that he gets as much. Swisher: No, he doesnt get very much at all. Where do you think hell be in 30 years when hes as old as Biden? Im thinking Howard Hughes. Isaacson: Howard Hughes. He keeps pushing all of his chips back in, and theres going to be explosions. Theres going to be debris that falls, just like there was in 2008 when he blows up his first three rockets. Just like there was in 2017, 2018, when he goes through the hell thats described in the book. I think certain things will flame out and blow up. If you ask me my prediction on the first, I think that the platform now known as X will be a payments platform, will have content creators putting stuff up, but will be an environment that advertisers dont want to be in, and its going to be a mess. But every week Swisher: What about him personally? Isaacson: Oh, I think hes been through these things before. Hes been through 2008, hes been through 2018. He relishes storm and drama. Swisher: So no evolvement of this. That you saw with Jobs, you certainly saw him maturing. So no evolvement? Isaacson: Yeah, although when Jobs came back from the liver transplant, read that chapter again. It was like, they thought he was going to be mellow, but he wasnt mellow. But he was still Will Musk mellow? The one-word answer? No. Swisher: No. Okay. Did you ever hear him apologize to anyone for an outburst during that time you were with him? Isaacson: No. In fact, its particularly interesting in the book, because I go I mean, you say, Do you check with other people? I circled back so many times in the book. He reams out a guy named Andy at Starbucks, Lucas on the finance team, or whatever. So I circle back, and at one point he promotes Andy, after hes, like, really reamed him out. Likewise Milan Kovac, who does autopilot and Optimus the robot just reams him out. And both of them, and there are a couple more in the book, I say: All right. Did he? And Im there, and Im going, Holy shit. And so I say to Milan, and I say to Andy, Did he ever apologize? Both of them said, The odd thing is, he was promoting me. He was very nice to me later. And I finally said to him, Do you remember when? And he kind of looks at me blankly as if he doesnt even quite remember it. Swisher: Oh no. Come on. Hes 52, hes a man, hes an adult. Doesnt remember it? Come on. Isaacson: I think there are things he does when he gets into his zone of a dark mood in which, when he comes out later, he thinks, That wasnt personal, that wasnt me, its just me giving honest feedback, and his mind moves to other things. Im not apologizing. Im not saying its good. Swisher: Its called seek therapy is what it is. Isaacson: You asked me, Does he ever apologize to these people? Im telling you, no, he didnt. Swisher: He doesnt. Thats happened to me. He wrote me a bunch of mean emails and then was like, Why dont we talk? I was like, You wrote me a bunch of mean emails. Isaacson: You see? Okay. And do you think that hes going to apologize? No. Swisher: Walter, I think theres two kinds of people. People who lie, which he does quite a bit. And people who lie to themselves, which he does almost all the time. Thats what I think. Isaacson: Yeah. And in the book I think youll see more complexity in that. Swisher: All right, theres two lines I want to talk to you about. Its my last two questions. The last line of your book, where you said, Sometimes theyre crazy ones, but then you say, Crazy enough to change the world. And Im saying, Walter, you cannot have it two ways, but you did. Why did you end it like that? Isaacson: You have a good criticism that sometimes I try to have it two ways, and I guess the plea I will cop is I actually believe that hes crazy, that hes messed up its a problem. But why the hell cant Boeing have a communication system? Why cant it get out? What is it about him? I mean, he is changing the world, whether you like it or not. Swisher: I got it. I have said this over and over again. Isaacson: And youve said it over and over. He brought us, more than any single individual, into the era of electric vehicles, in the era of space travel, in the era of internet and outer space. So it is true that his craziness did help lead him to change the world. Swisher: Did it? Maybe it hindered him. Anyway, we can argue about it, but let me say, fast cars, rockets, women, blowing things up with no repercussions whatsoever. Would you trade places with him? Isaacson: Oh God, no. No, no. Look, I had a happy childhood. Nobodys ever going to write my biography, but I grew up in New Orleans, a magical place, with two parents who were the kindest people I ever knew. I tend to be congenitally suited to being the detached observer whos a storyteller. As you heard me say in New Orleans a year ago, I had a mentor, Walker Percy, the great novelist. His picture is sort of back there, if you can see it. Swisher: Im aware of Walter Percy. Isaacson: And he said, There are two types of people coming out of Louisiana: preachers and storytellers. Swisher: Yes, Ive heard you tell this story. Isaacson: For heavens sake, be a storyteller, the worlds got too many preachers. I know Im not a person in the arena. I know Im not going to send up a rocket. Swisher: Last question. What impact does writing the Elon biography, or some people say, a hagiography someone called it that to me, as some have called it Isaacson: No, no, no. Im not going to let you get away with that. Swisher: All right, Im not going to say it. Isaacson: Youre forcing that off on somebody elses opinion. Swisher: Youre right. Unfair. Isaacson: Okay, thank you. Swisher: I think you were far too nice to him. What impact does the Elon biography have on the Walter Isaacson legacy? Isaacson: Look, if I had cared about my legacy, I wouldve taken a less controversial character. There are going to be people who say, You took a totally controversial person, and as you just said, it is not hagiography but that I was too nice to him. This aint going to help. And there are people who think I was too mean to him. Maybe next time I do a book Im going to go into the Wayback Machine and do somebody whos beautiful and dead. Swisher: Yes, I was just going to suggest. I was like, Walter, if I have one piece of advice: dead. Isaacson: Ill probably do it, but I did not do this book I kind of stumbled into this book. I wasnt really planning to, and it kind of happened. I did not do this book because it would enhance my legacy. I did it because, Whoa, this is Well, I first did it because he hadnt even thought about buying Twitter. I said, Man, the guys shooting off rockets, doing electric cars. I love technology. Do the book. I think in the end therell be a lot of people who say I was far too nice to him. Therell be people who say, Oh, you were mean and you didnt understand his greatness. If I wanted to have a less controversial impact on my career, theres 10,000 people I could have picked other than Elon Musk to have written about. Swisher: Howard Hughes. I hear hes dead. Isaacson: Edison. Swisher: Dead. Isaacson: Bill Gates. Jeff Bezos. Swisher: Edison was an asshole. No, do not do live people. Stop. You cant. Theyre not done yet. Isaacson: In this podcast, weve done four different instances where youve given me advice and Ive actually taken it. Because Im not an open-loop. I get feedback. Swisher: Okay, good. Dead. Isaacson: I think Ill promise you. Not sure, but Ill promise you the next one will be somebody whos been dead for at least a century. Swisher: Anyone dead, Walter, please, for the love of God. Anyway, I really appreciate it. Isaacson: Love you. Swisher: Youve been a very good sport about this. Isaacson: And do remember, when your Burn Book comes out, I get to turn the table. Swisher: You can track, you can burn me as much as you want. Isaacson: No, I get to get you onstage. Swisher: You know what? Its funny. Its actually funny. Its tough, but its very funny, so I think youll enjoy it. But well see. You can tell me honestly. Isaacson: I cant wait. Swisher: And I will take your honest feedback completely, and Im fine if you dont like it, fine if you do. As long as I sell books, as you know. Isaacson: No, and heres another thing I dont believe. I dont believe youre happy only if it sells books. Swisher: I dont care. Isaacson: I think youre going to want to make sure that people, maybe not me, but people like me kind of say, All right, that was pretty good. I like that. Swisher: Yeah, that is correct. Isaacson: You got more of an ego than you have a pocketbook. Swisher: Oh, are you kidding? Are you kidding? I have an enormous ego and Im also I dont know if Im a narcissist, but Im an egomaniac. Anyway, Walter, thank you so much. I appreciate it. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. On With Kara Swisher is produced by Nayeema Raza, Blakeney Schick, Cristian Castro Rossel, and Megan Burney, with mixing by Fernando Arruda, engineering by Christopher Shurtleff, and theme music by Trackademics. New episodes will drop every Monday and Thursday. Follow the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Photo: Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images Critics of the F-35 have long complained that the astronomically expensive fighter plane has some pretty striking flaws, like its well-documented problems with flying in the rain. But at least its stealth capabilities appear to be solid. So solid, in fact, that the Marine Corps cannot find an F-35 that was lost over South Carolina after its pilot ejected on Sunday. The jet is supposed to have a transponder inside to help in situations like this, but a spokesman for Joint Base Charleston, an Air Force base involved with the search, told the Washington Post that it was not working for some reason that we havent yet determined. To aid in the search, the base put out a request on social media requesting that anyone with information on its whereabouts please call to help find their trillion-dollar stealth fighter. In response, South Carolina Representative Nancy Mace asked an important question on Twitter: Now that I got that out of the way. How in the hell do you lose an F-35? How is there not a tracking device and were asking the public to what, find a jet and turn it in? Nancy Mace (@NancyMace) September 18, 2023 So far, the Marine Corps hasnt provided much information on that front. After taking off on Sunday morning from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort about 30 miles north of Hilton Head island the pilot ejected on Sunday afternoon. After parachuting to the ground, he is now in stable condition, though the Marine Corps has not yet stated why he ejected in the first place. Based on the F-35s whereabouts when its pilot ejected, the search is focusing on Lake Moultrie, a 14-mile-wide lake that is up to 75-feet deep. While the search radius assumes that the plane went down, a spokesman told NBC News that the plane was in autopilot mode when its actual pilot bailed, so there is a possibility that its still flying around all by its lonesome. Donald Trump has been signaling for months that he considers the Republican Partys anti-abortion stance to be his partys greatest liability. On Sunday, he explicitly severed himself from his partys position on the issue. In an interview with NBCs Meet the Press, Trump not only denounced Ron DeSantiss six-week abortion ban (I think what he did is a terrible thing and a terrible mistake) but endorsed an amorphous compromise while casting himself as a neutral party. Whats going to happen is youre going to come up with a number of weeks or months, Trump said. Youre going to come up with a number thats going to make people happy. He promised to sit down with both sides and said, Im almost like a mediator in this case. Obviously, Trump is engaging in a significant level of bullshit here. If there was a number that both sides could agree on, then somebody would have identified it by now. However, that doesnt mean his comments tell you nothing about his stance. There are several important ramifications of Trumps position. 1. Trump does not want to spend any more political capital advancing the anti-abortion cause. After the 2022 midterm elections, Trump blamed the partys disappointing performance on the Supreme Courts Dobbs decision. That interpretation was both self-interested (it deflected blame from Trumps own role in the election results, having promoted a series of extreme nominees) and deeply hypocritical (given that Dobbs was a direct result of Trumps own justices overturning precedent). He is now calculating that abortion is one of the Republican Partys greatest political disadvantages and believes he needs to win back some of the secular voters who deserted Republicans in the midterms. 2. Trump is happy to let DeSantis outflank him. DeSantis has campaigned as an archreactionary, attacking Trump as insufficiently right wing on issues like vaccines and trans rights in addition to abortion. Those attacks have failed to land because, despite their literal correctness, they feel implausible. And the reason they feel implausible is that Trumps personality has reconstructed the political spectrum. Trumps authoritarianism, bigotry, and misconduct now define the main scale of partisan conflict. The most right-wing position is whatever is most loyal to Trump, and, however hard DeSantis may try, nobody can be more pro-Trump than Trump. 3. Trump is a more supple politician than his critics give him credit for. Trump is not a smart person. But he does have the advantage of not caring at all about policy. His entire motive for running for office is a combination of self-aggrandizement, love of power, and self-enrichment. This combination of motives has led him to the Republican Party, and the partys pathological internal culture has made its base a perfect vehicle for a personality cult that has enabled him. But these traits have paradoxically liberated him from hewing to certain unpopular rhetoric. An important source of Trumps political success has come from distancing himself rhetorically from Republican positions on taxes (he promised to tax the rich at higher rates before reneging), health care (ditto), and foreign policy. In 2016, only 21 percent of voters called Trump a lot more conservative than themselves in contrast with the 34 percent who considered Hillary Clinton a lot more liberal than themselves. Many liberals have trouble understanding how a figure as obviously unfit for office as Trump has managed to get anywhere close to the presidency. One answer is that he pays attention to what the people say they want and promises to give it to them, a method that often beats paying attention to what party-aligned interest groups want. 4. Trump could always flip back in office. The fact that Trump doesnt care about right-wing policy goals does not mean he opposes them on principle. Trump reversed much of his moderate campaign rhetoric in office, pursuing regressive tax cuts and rollbacks in health-care coverage. Likewise, in 2016, he stated that women who seek abortions should be punished, before realizing conservatives prefer candidates not to say that publicly but then appointed staunch abortion opponents to the Supreme Court seats who made the decisive ruling. All this is to say Trump will do whatever benefits Trump. Once in office, he (probably?) wont run again and could be free to reward conservative activists without fear of political repercussions. 5. Trump is a bad trade for conservative interest groups. Nominating Trump is a pretty unattractive deal for conservative activists, especially ones whose policies Trump is willing to throw overboard. They are spending political capital on Trumps misconduct and corruption and ceding political capital on policy. Theyd prefer to do the opposite by nominating somebody who will win voters with his persona and spotless family life while hewing strictly to the views of the right-wing catechism. 6. Conservatives will probably go along with it anyway. DeSantis is going to seize the abortion opening as his last, best chance to overtake Trump in Iowa and make the primary a race. But anti-abortion activists are showing every sign that they expect Trump to win and wont punish him for his heresy. Conservative pundit Mollie Hemingway, who is equally fervent in her hatred of abortion and slavish devotion to Trump, called Trumps abortion comments wrong but only deep inside a column devoted principally to attacking Meet the Press for asking him hard questions, headlined NBCs Kristen Welker Lied Repeatedly About Democrats Extreme Abortion Position. Marjorie Dannenfelser, the president of SBA Pro-Life America, gave the New York Times a limp response to Trumps heresy: Were at a moment where we need a human rights advocate, someone who is dedicated to saving lives of children and serving mothers in need Every single candidate should be clear on how they plan to do that It begins with focusing on extremes of the other side, and ambition and common sense on our own. Anything weaker than 15 weeks as a federal minimum standard makes no sense in this context. 7. Trump thinks the primary is over. The Republican Party has a clear anti-abortion majority, and Trump is handing DeSantis an opportunity to wedge him away from the partys base especially in Iowa with its overconcentration of social conservatives. Trump would do this only if he believed the primary was effectively over and he could focus on the general election. President Joe Biden visits D.C.s memorial to World War II in 2021, a war hes allegedly about to start. Photo: Michael Reynolds/EPA/Bloomberg via Getty Images If Joe Biden is reelected in 2024 he will be 86 at the end of his second term. Certainly, that merits some discussion about when one becomes too old to serve as president. Donald Trump, Bidens likeliest opponent, has been trying to use these concerns to his advantage, though hes really in no position to do so; hes just three years younger than Biden and is notorious for his incoherence. But Trump has never been one to shy away from a good attack line, even if its hypocritical and ultimately self-destructive. Last week Trump, who is 77, was mentioned in several high-profile stories on questions about the presidents cognitive abilities. This made him so incensed that he fired off a series of nearly unintelligible Truth Social posts about his superior mentality and challenged Biden and various media figures to take the mental acuity test that he ACED back in 2018. (It was actually a dementia test that involved Trump recalling the words person, woman, man, camera, TV.) He didnt stop there. During a Friday night speech at the Pray Vote Stand summit in Washington, D.C., Trump warned that Biden is cognitively impaired, and if reelected he will drag us into a war that ended 78 years ago. We have a man who is totally corrupt and the worst president in the history of our country, who is cognitively impaired, in no condition to lead, and who is now in charge of dealing with Russia and possible nuclear war, Trump said. Just think of it. We would be in World War II very quickly if were going to be relying on this man. Trump confuses Biden for Obama and then says Biden is leading us into WWII pic.twitter.com/xhSz7Pva5U Joe Scarborough (@JoeNBC) September 16, 2023 Obviously, Trump meant to say World War III. Insisting that were on the brink of another great war, and maybe even nuclear annihilation, has been part of his stump speech for months. But that isnt the only line he flubbed. At another point in the speech, Trump seemed to mix up Biden and Barack Obama, suggesting hes currently leading his predecessor in the 2024 polls. As you know, crooked Joe Biden and the radical-left thugs have weaponized law enforcement to arrest their leading political opponent, and leading by a lot, including Obama Ill tell you what, Trump said. Later he claimed he defeated Obama in the 2016 election, saying, With Obama, we won an election that everyone said couldnt be won. He then corrected himself and said he ran against Hillary Clinton. Cognitively impaired Trump says that he beat Obama in the 2016 election. Trump is not well. pic.twitter.com/Lq43x7aIvO Republicans against Trump (@RpsAgainstTrump) September 17, 2023 Trump confusing his words here isnt proof that hes cognitively impaired, as some commentators suggested. He took the stage around 9:45 p.m. and spoke from a teleprompter for more than an hour, delivering the speech in his typical rambling style. The most unsettling part of the speech was actually the final ten minutes, when swelling instrumental music started playing the background, possibly to make terrifying lines like this sound more inspirational: We are a nation that no longer has a free and fair press. Fake news is all you get and they are the true enemy of the people. They refuse to discuss the Biden crime family but enjoy covering false indictments of Donald Trump, who has done nothing wrong We are a nation whose economy is collapsing into a cesspool of ruin We are a nation where large packs of sadistic criminals and thieves are allowed to go into stores and openly rob them, beat up and kill their workers and customers and leave with armloads of good but no retribution. But following Trumps flubs it is pretty ironic that he reiterated his call for all presidential candidates to take a test to make sure everyones just fine in his Meet the Press interview which aired on Sunday. Trump also bragged to host Kristen Welker about his (unremarkable) 2018 test results, then he claimed 77 isnt anywhere near 80: You know, some of the greatest world leaders have been in their 80s. Im not anywhere very near 80, by the way. And Bidens not too old. I dont think Bidens too old. But I think hes incompetent, and thats a bigger problem. I dont think 80 is old. I know people that are 89. I know a person 94, 95 whos 100 percent. Bernie Marcus, take a look at Bernie Marcus, Home Depot. I mean, he has been amazing for so many years. Hes 95 years old. Its really a level of competency, not the age. Days ago, Trump insisted that Biden is truly dumb & out of it because he mistakenly said there were nine, rather than seven, wonders of the world. But now hes chilled out. Age is just a number, man. And were all allowed to make mistakes! (If were Donald J. Trump.) DOL Awards Cornell University $2 Million for Disability Workforce Inclusion Initiative The grant aims to enhance inclusive workplaces for people with disabilities. Cornell University has just secured a $2 million grant, courtesy of the U.S. Department of Labor's (DOL) Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP). According to a release dated Sept. 14, the DOL designated these funds to support an employer-focused, disability policy development and technical assistance center at the institution. This donation is slated for the initial year of a collaborative agreement and will serve to extend the work of the agencys Employer Assistance and Resource Network on Disability Inclusion (EARN). Notably, EARN plays a pivotal role in guiding employers, human resource specialists and teams focusing on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility. Their objective is to gather essential resources to better recruit, hire, promote and retain individuals with disabilities, emphasizing those from traditionally marginalized groups. As employers continue searching for qualified workers to fill job openings, people with disabilities offer a motivated and skilled talent pool, Assistant Secretary for Disability Employment Policy Taryn Williams said in a statement. The Employer Assistance and Resource Network on Disability Inclusion will continue its efforts to strengthen Americas economy by helping employers build inclusive workplaces that afford all disabled workers access to good jobs. As a testament to ODEP's mission, the agency advocates for broadening access to quality jobs on behalf of the entire American workforce, including individuals with disabilities. Superman Corp. Hit with $73,219 in OSHA Penalties for Trenching Hazards The construction companys president faces a willful violation citation. Superman Corp.a Tamuning, Guam-based company that specializes in multi-family residential construction projectsis now in the crosshairs of OSHA after recurrent safety violations were identified at a worksite in Mangilao, Guam. In a release dated Sept. 14, OSHA announced it found two serious lapses in Superman Corp.'s safety protocols during its May 2023 inspection. The company failed to provide an adequate means for workers to enter and exit the trench within 25 feet and proper testing of oxygen levels in the trench before employees commenced work. Allen Kim, president of Superman Corp., also received a willful violation citation. Despite being trained in trenching safety and receiving warnings about site hazards from peers and engineers, Kim neglected to ensure mandatory cave-in protection for workers in the trench. Notably, Kim conceded to safety officers he recognized the dangers posed by nearby motorized equipment, including falling debris and the heightened collapse risk due to equipment vibrations. As a result of these oversights, the company faces proposed penalties amounting to $73,219. OSHA standards mandate protective systems for trenches deeper than 5 feet. These trenches must undergo inspections by trained individuals and feature safe entry and exit points for workers. Working in a trench is demanding and dangerous work that requires specific precautions and protections to keep workers safe, OSHA Area Office Director Roger Forstner in Honolulu said in a statement. By running soil compactors and excavators within 20 feet of workers in the trench and failing to provide accessible ladders, Superman Corp. chose to put production before safety, endangering the lives of its employees. Superman Corp. now has 15 business days to address the citations and penalties, arrange an informal discussion with OSHAs director or challenge OSHAs findings. Turkmenistan's huge gas reserves have been generating considerable interest from potential importers following Ashgabat's announcement in late July that it is open to the development of a pipeline to carry its gas across the Caspian and on to Europe. Most significant so far has been the interest shown by Hungary, which on August 20 signed a framework gas supply agreement with Turkmenistan, during a state visit to Budapest by Turkmen President Serdar Berdymukhamedov. Also in Budapest for meetings with Hungarian leader Viktor Orban were Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan - who was there to oversee the signing of a gas supply agreement between Turkey's state gas import-export and transit company Botas and Hungary's state power company MVM for 300 million cubic metres a year of gas - and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, whose state oil company SOCAR is already supplying MVM with 1 billion cubic metres a year of Azerbaijani gas. For Hungary and the EU, these three agreements are significant as they signal that the central European state is preparing for a future without guaranteed gas supplies from Russia, which is currently Hungary's main supplier and with which Budapest continues to enjoy cordial relations. However, flows of Russian gas, which arrive via Ukraine are set to stop by the end of 2024 with Kyiv having signalled its unwillingness to renew the existing transit agreement with Moscow - an understandable move given Russia's ongoing invasion. For Turkmenistan, the agreement is the most concrete evidence so far that Europe is serious about receiving gas from Turkmenistan's vast reserves in place of Russian gas, imports of which have all but halted since Russia's invasion of Ukraine early last year. How much Turkmen gas Hungary will import, how the gas will be delivered, and when supply will commence, have not been made clear. With no pipeline yet developed to carry gas from Turkmenistan across the Caspian, the only route currently open would be via the three-way gas swap deal between Turkmenistan, Iran and Azerbaijan first agreed in late 2021, and recently expanded. Under that agreement Turkmenistan sends its own gas to northeastern Iran, which then transits the same volume of its own gas on to Azerbaijan, enabling Baku to meet its own growing gas demand and existing gas export agreements while freeing up further volumes of Azerbaijani gas for onward transit to Europe. Although cumbersome, the three-way swap has been operating successfully since January last year and was recently expanded from 4.5 million cu m/day to 8 million cu m/day with plans to expand it further to 10 million cu m/day. Gas sold by Turkmenistan could be transited from Azerbaijan using spare capacity in the three pipelines which make up the Southern Gas Corridor that currently carries Azerbaijani gas to Georgia, Turkey and on to Europe. In July last year, Azerbaijan signed a memorandum of understanding with the European Union under which it undertook to double the volume of gas it sends to Europe to "at least 20 billion cu m/yr" by 2007. However, it is still unclear whether Azerbaijan will be able to double its own gas production by then, with the Turkmen-Iran swap agreement currently the most likely source of gas to fill any gap. Iran stands to also be the route to another gas-hungry market interested in importing Turkmen gas, namely Iraq. The oil-rich Middle Eastern state also has large gas reserves of its own but decades of political instability and the high cost of developing the fields have so far prevented the investment necessary to bring them to market. Baghdad has for some years been importing gas from Iran to generate electricity, but maintaining steady supplies has been difficult due to difficulties transferring payment caused by the ongoing US sanctions against the Islamic Republic, as well as Iran's own periodic problems meeting domestic demand. A preliminary agreement between Baghdad and Ashgabat signed on August 24 is expected to be followed by the end of this year with a formal agreement detailing volumes and transit details, which are expected to involve some form of barter arrangement which will avoid the necessity of transferring money to Tehran. Turkey and Azerbaijan key to bringing Turkmen gas to market Swap deals transferring gas via Iran are feasible for the small volumes of gas expected to be involved in agreements with Hungary and Iraq. But with gas reserves estimated at between 10 and 14 trillion cubic metres, the main focus of interest in Turkmenistan remains its potential to replace the Russian gas that has all but stopped flowing to Europe since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Any significant gas transit from Turkmenistan will require the development of a whole new pipeline infrastructure crossing the Caspian Sea and running through Azerbaijan, Georgia Turkey and the Balkans to connect with the existing central European pipeline network which, with no Russian gas, has the necessary spare capacity. Azerbaijan has already signalled its interest in hosting such a transit line but has warned it is unwilling to bear any of the cost. ADVERTISEMENT Turkey too has frequently signalled interest in transiting Turkmen gas to Europe. In May Ankara issued a new 10-year import license to state gas importer Botas, for the import of up to 16 billion cu m/yr of Turkmen gas under a contract signed in the late 1990s, but never implemented it due to the lack of a pipeline. Whether the development of such a pipeline is getting any closer is the subject of considerable interest in Europe. Certainly, the presence of Turkmen President Serdar Berdymukhamedov, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, all in Budapest at the same time provided the opportunity for high-level talks. An opportunity noted by Hungarian president Viktor Orban who, referring to his visitors, posted on X, "That's what I call connectivity." By David OByrne via Eurasianet.org More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Five Americans imprisoned in Iran were officially flown out of Tehran on Monday as the U.S. unfroze some $6 billion in Iranian oil funds held for five years in South Korea. The prisoner swap deal also included the release of five Iranian prisoners being held by Americans, two of whom plan to stay in the U.S. As of late morning Monday ET, the five American prisoners were on a plane headed from Tehran to Doha, Qatar, according to the White House. One of the prisoners being held in Iran was an oil executive with dual citizenship detained in 2015 for collaboration with a hostile government. The deal between Washington and Tehran cemented in August pledged to give Tehran access to nearly $6 billion in frozen oil revenues on the condition that the funds be used for humanitarian purposes. Tehran is expecting the funds to be made available immediately on Monday, with Washington signing a blanket waiver for U.S. sanctions that would allow international banks to transfer the funds to Iran from an account in South Korea. Republicans have criticized the plan, with House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Mike McCaul stating: The Americans held by Iran are innocent hostages who must be released immediately and unconditionally. However, I remain deeply concerned that the administrations decision to waive sanctions to facilitate the transfer of $6 billion in funds for Iran, the worlds top state sponsor of terrorism, creates a direct incentive for Americas adversaries to conduct future hostage-taking. The White House has emphasized that Iran will not be given free reign to use the nearly $6 billion in any way it sees fit, and that the deal comes with tight restrictions. The deal also follows warnings last week by European countries that Iran is building stocks of highly enriched uranium beyond that used for civilian purposes. , Prisoner swaps with Iran have been conducted in the past, as well, including under the Obama and Trump administrations. ADVERTISEMENT By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: HANOI, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The revenue of Vietnam's fruit and vegetable exports is forecast to hit a record high of 5 billion U.S. dollars this year, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. The prediction was made based on the country's favorable conditions since early this year, local newspaper Vietnam News reported Monday. One of the favorable conditions mentioned by the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association was the increase in purchases from the Chinese market, fueled by the protocols that Vietnam signed with China in 2022. According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Vietnam's fruit and vegetable exports to China reached 2 billion dollars in the first seven months of this year, increasing by 128.5 percent against the same period last year. Vietnam's main fruit and vegetable export products to China include durians, mangos, dragon fruits, and bananas. Jackfruit export to the Chinese market also holds potential with a sharp increase predicted in the coming months. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Vietnam's fruit and vegetable exports in the first eight months of 2023 reached 3.45 billion dollars, an increase of 57.5 percent over the same period last year and even exceeding the record value of 3.81 billion dollars in 2018. Brazil could launch oil exploration in an environmentally sensitive deepwater basin if state oil giant Petrobras has a cautious approach to drilling in the area, according to Brazilian Finance Minister Fernando Haddad. The so-called Equatorial Margin offshore Brazil including the Foz do Amazonas, Para-Maranhao, and Barreirinhas basins, and is estimated to hold large oil and gas reserves. We may need oil from the Equatorial Margin on the condition that Petrobras take environmental precautions and Petrobras is very willing to consider this, Haddad said in a television interview on Sunday, carried by Reuters. Earlier this year, Brazils environmental protection agency, Ibama, refused to grant approval for a controversial offshore oil project in the area led by Petrobras. The company was preparing to drill a well in the Foz do Amazonas area in the Equatorial Margin where the Amazon River meets the Atlantic. The block in the Foz do Amazonas basin, off Brazils northern coast, is close to the mouth of the Amazon River, which prompted the environmentalist protest that eventually led to the regulators decision. Petrobras has appealed the decision of the environmental protection agency. The administration of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is looking to accelerate the energy transition, but it is also betting on continued development of the oil and gas industry, to pay for more incentives for green initiatives. Despite the efforts to accelerate emissions reductions, the Brazilian administration has signaled that there isnt a discrepancy in Brazils efforts to advance the energy transition and its state oil company Petrobras pursuing drilling in domestic frontier areas. There is no contradiction. You indicate where you want to get and then you'll need resources for that, Lulas chief of staff Rui Costa said in a radio interview last month carried by Reuters. We are going to build a sustainable, renewable energy matrix, but it's obvious that we need to fund that transition process, Costa added. ADVERTISEMENT By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Californias governor, Gavin Newsom, accused the oil industry of lying days after the states Attorney General filed a lawsuit against five Big Oil majors for downplaying climate change risks. The climate crisis is, after all, a fossil fuel crisis, Newsom said, as quoted by Bloomberg, at the opening of Climate Week in New York City. They continue to play us for fools. Ive had enough and Im sick and tired of this. On Friday, Newsoms office posted on X Big Oil has been lying to us covering up the fact that theyve long known how dangerous the fossil fuels they produce are for our planet. It has been decades of damage & deception. With @AGRobBonta , California is taking action to hold big polluters accountable. The big polluters referred to in the post include Exxon, Chevron, BP, Shell, and ConocoPhillips, Reuters reported. The American Petroleum Institute is also among the defendants. The lawsuit alleges these companies had caused Californians billions of dollars in damages and its authors plan to create what they call an abatement fund to use for coverage of future damages, the Reuters report also noted. On Sunday, Newsom called the damage already done incalculable. The state of California has been at the forefront of the energy transition, sporting the highest fuel prices in the nation and also the biggest EV market. California is also a major electricity importer from other states and an oil importer, too. Earlier this year, Governor Newsom signed a bill for the ban of internal combustion engine vehicles from 2035 in California, following in the footsteps of the European Union and the UK, both with their own ICE car bans in the works. In comments on the lawsuit, Chevron said Climate change is a global problem that requires a coordinated international policy response, not piecemeal litigation for the benefit of lawyers and politicians. Its local courts have no constructive or constitutionally permissible role in crafting global energy policy, a company spokesman also said, as quoted by Bloomberg. ADVERTISEMENT By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Chinese refiners have tripled their exports of diesel so far this year as export quotas and rising refining margins in Asia proved incentives enough amid tepid domestic diesel demand. Between January and August, Chinas exports of diesel soared by 197.2% compared to the same eight months of 2022, according to data from the General Administration of Customs on Monday cited by Reuters. For August alone, Chinese diesel exports surged by 51.5% year-on-year, the official Chinese data showed. Exports of gasoline and jet fuel also jumped in August and in January-August, as refining margins in the region have surged. Last month, regional refining margins averaged $12.60 per barrel, up from July and the highest since the end of January this year, according to Reuters estimates. The surge in Chinese fuel exports, especially of diesel, came as refiners processed in August the highest volumes of crude oil ever. High margins on the export markets and peak domestic summer demand prompted Chinas refiners to boost crude oil processing to a record-high 15.23 million barrels per day (bpd) in August, Chinese data showed last week. The total throughput jumped last month by 19.6% compared to August 2022, according to data from Chinas National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) quoted by Reuters. The rise in refinery runs was the highest annual increase since March 2021, Reuters noted. Between January and August, refinery throughput went up by 11.9% year-over-year to 14.76 million bpd, per Reuters estimates. Refinery throughput accelerated in August with record runs, thanks to peak summer travel demand in China and higher volumes of fuel exports as refiners looked to capture strong margins abroad and had additional export quotas allocated. China also imported in August the third-highest monthly crude oil volumes ever as crude arrivals surged by 20.9% compared to July and by 30.9% versus August last year, according to Chinese customs data. ADVERTISEMENT By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Renewable energy sources are expected to generate more than 50% of Germanys electricity this year, Economy Minister Robert Habeck said at a conference in Berlin on Monday. However, the minister from the Green party who is also responsible for climate action, warned that Europes biggest economy needs to accelerate the rollout of green energy to meet its climate targets to 2030 and beyond, Reuters reports. By 2030, Germany aims to have renewables account for 80% of its electricity generation, Habeck said. We won't get there at the current pace, the minister added. In the first half of 2023, renewables accounted for around 52% of Germanys gross electricity consumption, data by the German utility industry association, BDEW, and the Center for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research (ZSW) showed at the end of June. The share rose by 3 percentage points compared to the same period last year when renewables accounted for 49% of Germanys power consumption. Earlier this year, Germany ditched nuclear energy after taking its last three nuclear power plants offline in April, ending more than six decades of commercial nuclear energy use. Germany, like many other EU countries, is betting on renewables to boost its energy security without Russian gas. But the end of nuclear power generation and the lower natural gas consumption both due to savings and to no supply from Russia raised the share of coal-powered generation last year, Germanys Federal Statistical Office said in March. Solar and wind power additions are rising, but not fast enough to meet Germanys targets. For example, onshore wind power installations jumped in the first half of 2023 compared to the same period last year, but despite the momentum, capacity additions are still too low to meet government targets, industry association VDMA said in July. The BWE and VDMA associations noted that even the significantly rising number of approvals is still far from sufficient to support the expansion target of 10 GW per year from 2025. ADVERTISEMENT By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Iran has expelled several nuclear energy inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency days after it expelled one such inspector involved in the examination of Iranian nuclear facilities. "These inspectors are among the most experienced Agency experts with unique knowledge in enrichment technology. They have conducted essential verification work at the enrichment facilities in Iran which are under Agency safeguards," said IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi in a statement. The IAEA has been going to Iran for years now to make sure the country does not develop nuclear weapons, following the removal of EU and UN sanctions, imposed on Iran during the Ahmadinejad government, which tried to turn Iran into a nuclear power. The IAEAs Grossi acknowledged that Irans move is not against the rules of the Non-Proliferation Treaty Safeguards Agreement but added that the right to expel inspectors has been exercised by Iran in a manner that affects in a direct and severe way the ability of the IAEA to conduct effectively its inspections in Iran. Reuters noted in a report that Irans decision to expel the inspectors comes days after the United States, the UK, France, and Germany called on Tehran to start cooperating with the IAEA to explain traces of uranium that were found at sites undeclared as nuclear energy development sites. This weekend, the European Union was quick to condemn Iran for expelling the inspectors and urged it to reconsider the decision. "The European Union is highly concerned by the ... decision by Iran to withdraw the official designation of several experienced IAEA inspectors to monitor and verify its nuclear programme," foreign affairs spokesman Peter Stano said in a statement quoted by Reuters. "Particularly worrying is the direct and severe impact of this decision on the Agency's ability to conduct its verification activities, which includes the monitoring of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. The EU urges Iran to reconsider its decision without delay," Stano also said. ADVERTISEMENT By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: The oil-price rally continued in full force on Monday, with Brent crude closing in on $95 per barrel in early afternoon trading, and some crude grades around the world topping $100. At 12:23 p.m. ET on Monday, Brent crude was trading at $94.53, while WTI was trading at $91.81. Elsewhere, Reuters reported that Nigerian Qua Iboe crude rallied past $100 per barrel on Monday, while Malaysian Tapis crude had already surpassed that mark last week, citing Swedish bank SEB analyst Bjarne Schieldrop as saying in a report that Saudi Arabia and Russia are in solid control of the oil market. Oil is now at its highest price this year, with investors banking on tight supply and excess demand in the final quarter of the year as a result of production cut extensions by both Saudi Arabia and Russia, the two largest producers in OPEC+. The Swedish bank analyst also predicted that Brent would rise above $100 because a rally to that point would require nothing more than noise. Schieldrop said dated Brent is highly likely to move above $100 as "only noise is needed to bring it above." Swiss bank UBS sees Brent futures reaching triple digits. Swiss UBS sees Brent trading in the $90-$100 range, targeting $95 at year-end, while Standard Chartered analysts forecast $93 per barrel, but are not ruling out a Q4 rise above $100. CitiGroup cautioned on Monday that while geopolitics could move prices past $100 in the short-term, $90 prices look unsustainable and a withdrawal from the rally is expected as supply builds. Citi noted that non-OPEC supply is expected to increase by 1.8 million barrels per day this year and another 1 million bpd in 2024, with the U.S. set to add 900,000 bpd this year and 400,000 bpd next year, Bloomberg reports. ADVERTISEMENT By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Tens of thousands of people rallied in New York on Sunday, urging U.S. President Joe Biden to end approvals for new oil and gas projects as world leaders are heading to New York to take part in a climate summit on Wednesday. Leaders are gathering in New York for this weeks UN General Assembly and a separate Climate Ambition Summit at the UN headquarters. The White House has said that President Biden does not plan to attend the Climate Ambition Summit on Wednesday. The March to End Fossil Fuels on Sunday featured politicians including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez who called on President Biden to stop all federal approvals for new fossil fuel projects, phase out the production of fossil fuels on public lands and waters, and declare a climate emergency. The Biden Administration has recently canceled seven oil and gas leases for the Alaska Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The decision overturned ones made by the Trump Administration, which awarded the leases. But the Biden administration approved a highly controversial project in Alaska in March this year, sparking the outrage of environmentalists after pledging to clip the wings of the U.S. oil and gas industry. The Conoco oil projects approval was challenged in court by two environmentalist groups on the grounds that it would exacerbate climate change but a federal judge dismissed it, saying the plaintiffs had failed to prove that Willow would cause irreparable harm. With its latest move for Alaska, however, the federal government might win back some favor with the environmentalist lobby. Last month, the Administration reduced the area to be offered in the next Gulf of Mexico oil and gas lease sale by 9% to safeguard the habitat of a rare whale species, drawing criticism and resulting in a lawsuit from the American Petroleum Institute (API), U.S. supermajor Chevron, and the state of Louisiana. While President Biden said during his election campaign that he would end new leasing on federal land and waters, his administration hasnt taken such drastic measures amid skyrocketing fuel prices with the upended global oil flows following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. ADVERTISEMENT By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Researchers and public health officials have been tracking the sharp increase in vaping among teens for nearly a decade. Theyve also been tracking what youths are vaping. In 2019, researchers with the University of Nebraska Medical Center reported a significant increase in marijuana use in e-cigarettes by middle and high school students in the United States. Now a new analysis by the UNMC-led team has traced a new trend: More than one in five youths who reported vaping within the past month in a national survey in 2022 also vaped cannabidiol, or CBD, according to a report they published last month in medical journal JAMA Network Open. Its the first time for us to identify very high prevalence of adolescents reporting CBD use, said Daisy Dai, professor of biostatistics and associate dean of research for UNMCs College of Public Health. Use of CBD, which does not cause a high, has been on the rise since the 2018 federal farm bill legalized the production of hemp, defining it as a cannabis plant with .3% or less of the high-inducing compound THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol. CBD now is widely available in forms ranging from gummies to tinctures, including in states like Nebraska where marijuana itself remains illegal. The analysis looked at responses from 28,000 middle and high school students in 341 schools to the federal National Youth Tobacco Survey collected between January and May 2022. Among the nearly 2,500 e-cigarette users, some 21% reported vaping CBD within the past month. Among the e-cigarette using youths, 6% reported that they did not know whether they had vaped CBD. Hispanic youth were more likely than non-Hispanic ones to report using CBD. Youth who identified as LGBTQ+ also were more likely to use the compound than those who did not. Dai, who led the study, said the researchers were surprised that so many youth who were vaping did not know whether they had vaped CBD. Regulation of labeling is limited. These kids are very, very young, Dai said. ... They have lots of peer influences. If their friend hands over a vaping device, they just use it. Shelby Bingham, director of the Metro Omaha Tobacco Action Coalition, agreed that the fact that some youth didnt know whether they had vaped CBD was a particular concern. None of the youth in the survey were old enough to buy the products themselves, she said. Congress raised the age at which people can buy both e-cigarettes and cigarettes to 21 in 2019. Someone buying the products for them could put other substances in them. Law enforcement agencies last month executed search warrants at dispensaries across Nebraska over allegations that some products contain a percentage of THC well over the legal amount. The researchers noted that CBD, nicotine, marijuana and other compounds can be used interchangeably in some devices, which can make it difficult to pinpoint the specific products responsible for any adverse health effects from vaping. That was the case with an outbreak of lung injury associated with e-cigarette use in 2019, which was linked to vitamin E acetate found in some THC-containing vaping products. The findings suggest that evidence-based educational campaigns, interventions and public policy changes are needed to reduce the harmful health outcomes possible with vaping CBD among developing youths, the researchers wrote. Dai and Bingham stressed that public health groups and tobacco education groups continue to work to educate youth, particularly the youngest ones, about potential concerns associated with vaping. Our team is not just reporting, Dai said, we are supporting the community to battle this. Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of September 2023 In honor of Constitution Day, Bellevue University will host an event for its students, staff, and faculty on Tuesday, Sept. 19, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the Margre H. Durham Student Center, 1008 Bruin Blvd. Attendees will have an opportunity to register to vote, engage in an interactive Bill of Rights Bingo game, and capture videos with the Buzzy Booth. Constitution Day celebrates the formation and signing of the U.S. Constitution by delegates to the Constitutional Convention in 1787. This federally mandated observance also honors all those who hold U.S. citizenship. The event reflects Bellevue University's ongoing commitment to fostering active citizenship and the importance of understanding our nation's history. All Bellevue University undergraduate students also complete the Kirkpatrick Signature Series, a course series that examines the significance of active citizenship in a rapidly changing world, where popular government, Western traditions and American values are often challenged. A 64-year-old man died Sunday following a two-vehicle collision that occurred when his vehicle went through a stop sign just south of Blair, Nebraska. Ramon L. Gutierrez of Blair, who was not wearing a seat belt, was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead, according to the Washington County Sheriff's Office. The two occupants of the second vehicle, who were both wearing seat belts, declined medical treatment. Investigators determined that Gutierrez was alone and eastbound on County Road P26 in a 2004 Toyota Tacoma pickup truck about 9:50 p.m. The pickup failed to stop at the intersection with Nebraska Highway 133 and was struck by a southbound Chevrolet Impala driven by Angelica Reinders, 44, of Blair. The Impala collided with the driver's-side door of the pickup. Deputies at the scene were assisted by members of the Blair and Kennard Fire Departments. SACRAMENTO, United States, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- California has suffered extreme weather in recent years, which has resulted in devastating wildfires, air pollution, deadly heat waves and record-breaking droughts. The latest lawsuit filed on Friday by California aimed to hold some of the world's largest oil companies accountable for the damage caused by climate change-induced storms and wildfires, officials said Saturday. The lawsuit was against oil companies Exxon, Shell, Chevron, ConocoPhillips and BP, as well as their trade group, the American Petroleum Institute (API). Oil companies are demanded by the lawsuit to pay their fair share for recovery efforts from climate change-induced superstorms and wildfires, and other efforts to mitigate extreme heat, drought and flooding. California is the latest and largest state to join the campaign against oil companies. Other states, including Rhode Island and Minnesota, and cities, such as Honolulu and Baltimore, have filed similar lawsuits. The state has spent tens of billions of dollars to adapt to climate change and address the damages climate change has caused so far, and the state will need to spend multiples of that in the years to come, according to the complaint. API senior vice president and general counsel Ryan Meyers called these lawsuits "meritless" and "politicized." In a statement in response to California's lawsuit, he said, "it is nothing more than a distraction from important national conversations and an enormous waste of California taxpayer resources." As another move to hold big corporations accountable, California lawmakers on last Monday passed a bill that would require major corporations, from oil and gas companies to retail giants, to reveal their greenhouse-gas emissions. "This disclosure bill is for businesses that earn over 1 billion dollars a year in California. That's over 5,300 businesses, so it's not insignificant," said California Governor Gavin Newsom at Sunday's conference while discussing the state's efforts to address climate change. He said a number of multinationals, like Apple and Salesforce, "in the last few days came on board" in support of the legislation. But the bill is a controversial proposal that many other businesses and groups in the state oppose and say will be too burdensome. The legislation, the first of its kind in the nation, now awaits Newsom's signature to become law. The governor suggested on Sunday that he would sign the bill. "We need to exercise not just our formal authority, but we need to share our moral authority" in fighting climate change, he said. Many Omaha-area property owners could wind up with substantial cuts in their school property taxes next year as all 11 school districts in Douglas and Sarpy Counties are planning to cut their tax levies. But the impact for individual taxpayers will vary based on the school district where they live and what happened this year to their own property valuations. The state aid package pushed by Gov. Jim Pillen and passed by the Nebraska Legislature earlier this year is one reason that school tax levies are dropping significantly in some districts. Pillens education package boosted state funding for schools, including for special education costs. Another reason is that the robust real estate market has driven up property valuations, increasing the tax bases for schools and other local governments. As a result, school districts are able to collect just as much in property taxes if not more as they did this year, even though they may be reducing their tax levies. School districts account for the largest share of local property taxes, so reductions in school tax rates could potentially have a big impact on the overall tax bill. Property owners in the Elkhorn district will see the largest tax levy drop: 17 cents per $100 of assessed valuation. The Westside and Douglas County West school districts will cut their levies by roughly 14 cents. Papillion La Vista and Millard plan reductions of about 11 cents. Meanwhile, Bellevue property owners will see a school tax rate reduction of about 3 cents. And in the Omaha Public Schools district, the school tax rate is going down just 1.4 cents. The differences are partly attributable to how the state aid bill affected each districts mix of revenues from state aid, local property taxes and other sources. Other factors are differing obligations for past bond issues and how each districts tax base changed this year. Papillion La Vista officials credited the boost in special education funds from the state as the main reason it could lower its levy by more than 11 cents. The districts state aid decreased by 10% for the 2023-24 year because of a 12% jump in property valuations, but the extra special education funds allowed offered the tax relief. Special education expenses are going to be reimbursed at 80% from the state of Nebraska. Weve been spending that anyway weve just been paying it with our own money, with property taxes, more than likely, Brett Richards, assistant superintendent of business, said at a board meeting last week. Districts used to be reimbursed at a rate of 43% for special education expenses, Richards said. While tax rates are going down, however, theres no guarantee that tax bills will follow suit. Higher property valuations could offset the levy reductions, at least somewhat. And a homeowner whose valuation went up a lot this year say, 15% or more could wind up paying higher school property taxes, even with the lower rates. Omaha-area school districts will finalize their budgets and levy rates by the end of the month. Below are the expected tax rates for all 11 Douglas and Sarpy districts, shown per $100 of assessed value. Districts are listed from highest to lowest levy. Gretna 2023-24: $1.363 2022-23: $1.485 Bennington 2023-24: $1.358 2022-23: $1.425 Omaha 2023-24: $1.217 2022-23: $1.231 Elkhorn 2023-24: $1.209 2022-23: $1.383 Bellevue 2023-24: $1.17 2022-23: $1.20 Ralston 2023-24: $1.16 2022-23: $1.25 Papillion La Vista 2023-24: $1.149 2022-23: $1.264 Westside 2023-24: $1.146 2022-23: $1.285 Millard 2023-24: $1.098 2022-23: $1.21 Douglas County West 2023-24: $0.797 2022-23: $0.937 Springfield Platteview 2023-24: $0.685 2022-23: $0.782 Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of September 2023 The boy, who was injured at a residence in rural Farragut, Iowa, about 8:10 p.m., was first taken to the Shenandoah Memorial Hospital. He was then flown to an Omaha hospital, according to a statement from the Fremont County Sheriff's Office. LINCOLN A new prison oversight report is raising concern that two Nebraska inmates who have spent years in restrictive housing are slated to leave prison without supervision in December. The report, released Sunday by the Inspector General of Corrections, said Nebraskas prison system has made progress since 2015 in reducing the number of prisoners placed in restrictive housing and the number kept there for more than 6 months at a time. But the annual report also noted that difficulty making the adjustment from restrictive housing to the general prison population contributed to the death of a prisoner in 2021. The man had spent nearly five years in restrictive housing, sometimes called solitary confinement, before being moved to the Community Corrections Center-Omaha. According to the report, those years in solitary harmed his mental health. In restrictive housing, prisoners are locked in their cells for 23 hours a day and have very limited contact with other people. They are allowed out to spend time in a small outdoor enclosure and to shower. Critics say such conditions can cause or exacerbate severe mental and physical health complications. Extended periods of solitary confinement and lack of supervision after release from prison were cited among the factors contributing to Nikko Jenkins killing four people in Omaha within three weeks of leaving prison in 2013. In the 2021 inmate death, the inspector general said prison officials had a transition plan for the man but it was not sufficient. The man was able to disengage from mental health services despite signs that he was struggling. There was no indication he had been referred for treatment after testing positive for amphetamines at the community corrections center. On Nov. 10, 2021, he broke through the ceiling of his cell at the center and got on the roof of the building. After being coaxed down, his health deteriorated and he ended up dying of a methamphetamine overdose. In response, Inspector General Doug Koebernick recommended, among other things, that state corrections officials revise their policy to ensure restrictive housing transition plans address the period after a person is released to a less restrictive setting, especially for those who have been in solitary for six months or more. The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services accepted the recommendation, with modifications, earlier this year, according to the report. One of the two men who is scheduled to be released in December has been in solitary confinement for more than 5 1/2 years of his more than 10 years in prison. He is one of nine men who have spent that long in restrictive housing. The other inmate scheduled for release has spent more than 3 1/2 years in solitary. Neither will have post-release supervision. The Legislature eight years ago passed a law requiring post-release supervision of inmates, but it applies only to those convicted of lower-level felony crimes. On Monday, spokeswoman Dawn-Renee Smith said the department is taking steps to help the two adjust to the change. (The department) takes a multi-disciplinary, individual approach to placements in and releases from restrictive housing, she said. It is our goal that no one releases directly to the community from restrictive housing, but that is based on individual risk and is, therefore, not always possible. The individuals referenced in the report both have transition plans in place, Smith said. In addition, reentry plans will be in place for them. To the extent possible, connections with community reentry providers and others will be made prior to release. Smith also noted that number of prisoners housed in restrictive housing for more than six months has been reduced by about 35%, a change that Koebernicks report said had resulted from steps the department implemented. A World-Herald analysis earlier this year found that nearly four of every 10 inmates who leave Nebraskas prisons head out with no parole or probation supervision. Nebraskas rate of unsupervised release is among the highest in the nation, the analysis found. Among other concerns in the report: Staffing issues remain, despite significant pay raises, retention bonuses and other incentives implemented in the past two years. The raises and other steps helped fill vacancies, reduce turnover and bring down overtime hours since 2021, the report said. But turnover and vacancy numbers inched upward again in the last few months, while staffing emergencies remain in effect at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution and the Reception and Treatment Center in Lincoln. The report said both facilities operate near or below minimum staffing levels on a regular basis. Shortages of health care staff are especially acute. Half or more of nursing positions and behavioral health positions were vacant as of August and the prison system had no psychiatrists on staff. The medical director and nursing director positions are vacant. Studies ordered by the Legislature have not been completed, including a study of how inmates are classified into maximum, medium, minimum and community security levels. Lawmakers called for the study in 2021 to help determine future needs of the system. The study was to have been completed by March but has not been provided to the Legislature yet. Nor has the corrections department provided evaluations of the quality of clinical and nonclinical programs provided to inmates, as required by a state law passed in 2015 and updated in 2022. Access to information has been blocked since Aug. 16, when Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers issued an opinion saying that the inspectors general for child welfare and corrections are unconstitutional. The opinion said the watchdog positions, which are housed within the legislative branch, violate the separation of powers. Although AG opinions are not court rulings and do not carry the force of law, officials in the executive branch have since restricted the inspector generals ability to talk with inmates, visit prisons, get information about inmate deaths and look at state records. The Legislature has retained an attorney to look at options for response. Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of September 2023 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 Sept. 18, 1923: Local merchants and window decorators are busy making the final arrangements for the opening of the Fall Style show. The unveiling of the display windows will take place at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday. During the following three days, Central Illinois shoppers will have the opportunity to view elaborate showings in the display windows and stores. Buyers from the Bloomington stores have recently returned from travel nationally and abroad, and apparel direct from New York and Paris will be on display. 75 years ago Sept. 18, 1948: While Jerry Haberkorn of Chatsworth won the contour plowing contest there on the F.L. Livingston farm, the Future Farmer team from Fairbury High School won the contour staking contest. Twelve hundred people attended the all-day program, with many demonstrations and tours held in the forenoon. 50 years agoSept. 18, 1973: Gov. Daniel Walker has signed into law a bill making white oak the state tree. The white oak is a substitute for the native oak as the state tree, a designation that persisted from 1907 despite the fact that native oak refers to roughly 20 varieties of the tree native to Illinois. More than 900,000 school children took part earlier in this year in a poll to decide which of the native oaks should be set apart as the state tree. 25 years ago Sept. 18, 1998: McLean County Unit 5s difficult task of assigning more than 9,700 students to 14 grade schools, two middle schools and two high schools next year is approaching an end but plenty of work remains. The first phase of redistricting hearings wrapped up with about 70 parents talking to school officials at Fairview Elementary School in Normal. Several urged the board to consider allowing all students who attend Fairview to go to the same middle school. 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' BLOOMINGTON Illinois Army National Guard Soldier Paul Metzdorff, of Bloomington, was promoted to colonel. Metzdorff was promoted during a ceremony at the Astroth Community Education Center at Heartland Community College on Sept. 8. The promotion comes nearly 22 years after Metzdorff graduated from Illinois Army National Guard Officer Candidate School. Metzdorff enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1996 as an infantryman, serving with 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment in Bosnia-Herzegovina and at Fort Riley, Kansas. In 2000, he joined the Illinois Army National Guard as a Simultaneous Membership Program Cadet while attending Illinois State University. In March 2001, he transitioned to the ILARNG OCS and was commissioned as an infantry officer on Sept. 10, 2022. He has served in several positions of great responsibility throughout his career, including assignments in the 66th Infantry Brigade as it transitioned into the 33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team; 2nd Squadron, 106th Cavalry Regiment; Recruiting and Retention Battalion; and the 404th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade; culminating in his selection as the ILARNG Military Personnel Officer (G-1). From 2017 to 2019, he served as a branch chief in the Acquisitions and Program Management Office at National Guard Bureau. Best cities for military retirees Best cities for military retirees Highlights from the top 10 cities for military retirees Data and methodology In the ongoing search for missing Ada fishermen, another body has been found, bringing the total death toll to two. A 19-year-old Joseph Badus body was discovered in a decomposed state in Anloga, Volta Region on Saturday afternoon. The search and rescue mission, launched by the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) and the Ghana Navy, has so far rescued 15 individuals from the capsized fishing boats, with two still missing. The accident occurred when the fishermen were navigating into the Volta River, and seven individuals remain unaccounted for. The families of the missing individuals are anxiously awaiting updates on the ongoing search and rescue operation. Local authorities are urging fishermen to prioritize their safety while navigating unpredictable currents and weather conditions. The search and rescue mission remains ongoing, and officials are determined to locate and rescue the missing fishermen. Source: dailyguidenetwork.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video A former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo has criticised former President John Mahama for saying that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has packed the judiciary with judges inclined to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and that when he becomes President again, he would also make appointments to balance those made by President Akufo-Addo. Justice Sophia Akuffo, who served as a judge for many years before she was appointed Chief Justice by President Akufo-Addo, wondered whether when John Mahama was President he also appointed judges inclined to the National Democratic Congress (NDC), adding that the former Presidents comments have a potential to undermine the judiciary. Speaking in a recent interview with Accra-based Asaase Radio, Ms. Akuffo noted that he found partisan accusations against judges upsetting. He[ former President John Mahama] has been through the process of appointing other people before. So was it that because they were NDC? she quizzed. "It always," she continued, "upsets me when you get comments like: Oh! This one is the NPP judge Oh! This one is NDC. And yet you have never seen the person on any partys rally or platforms "And these are some of the unnecessary pressures that are put on the judiciary. What difference will that tag make to me, my career and my work?" she wondered. Former President John Mahama had accused President Akufo-Addo of accusing so many judges into the superior courts of the country, asking lawyers inclined to the NDC to ready themselves for appointments to the bench when he becomes President again. But President Akufo-Addo hit back at him, saying that his criticism was unhealthy for the judiciary. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video At least 350 wooden structures including shops at the Central Market Complex (CMB) behind Kantamanto in Accra, were razed down by fire on Sunday morning, destroying goods worth several thousands Ghana cedis. The wooden structures used for both commercial and domestic purposes and their contents including ovens, LPG cylinders, deep freezers, bags of flour and beans were burnt in the inferno. The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained, as investigations are ongoing. According to reports, the fire started around 5am on Sunday and quickly spread to several shops before firefighters from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) could arrive at the scene. Several flammable objects were found at the site of the fire. The GNFS Public Relations Officer, ADO1 Alex Nartey, said that the fire had been put out, but several shops were completely destroyed. Traders at the market expressed their frustration and disappointment, with many stating that they had lost everything. The GNFS is advising traders to be cautious with electrical appliances and avoid storing flammable materials in their shops. This is the second major fire incident that has occurred at the CMB market in recent years. In 2020, a fire destroyed over 200 shops at the market, causing several traders to lose their source of livelihood. Authorities are calling on traders to prioritize safety measures in their shops to avoid such incidents in the future. The incident has brought attention to the need for market safety and strict adherence to safety measures to avoid loss of lives and properties. Source: dailyguidenetwork.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Three (3) pastors who physically assaulted a priestess of the indigenous Traditional Religion in Wiaga in the Builsa North Municipality of the Upper East Region have been arrested by the police. According to a report by journalist Castro Senyalah, the priestess was hospitalized after the vicious attack on her by the two pastors of the Jesus Family Church in Sandema after they had failed to get her to surrender her gods and convert to Christianity. The victim, Sakinatu Issahaku, who resides in the Sichaasa community of Wiaga was mercilessly beaten by the enraged pastors, who had forcibly confiscated her gods and attempted to take them away and discard them. At a point, one of the pastors, a Whitman pulled a pistol on her and threatened to kill her. The victim, who was rescued by community members was transported to the Wiaga Clinic and treated of bruises on the face, knees and a dislocated arm. Recounting the incident to journalist Castro Senyalah, the priestess recalled that the violent pastors, led by a popular pastor in Sandema called Donatus Asekabta, had come to her home and had offered to pray for her and convert her to Christianity. But she declined the offer. They insisted but she stood her ground and refused. Then they become enraged and tried to forcibly take her deities away. Her resistance resulted in the physical assault on her after their verbal assault failed to get her to budge. They took some of my idols and hid them and when I retrieved them, one of the pastors who is a white man held me and pushed me onto the ground. I quickly got back up and that was when the white man took out a pistol and threatened to kill me, she told the Journalist. READ ALSO: NPP Man Drags GCB Bank Limited to court over breach of contract She continued, After that, the pastor from Awolinka Church beat me up mercilessly. He twisted my arm. And as I speak, there are pains all over. I also sustained cuts on my face, knees and hands, she added. The police arrested the suspects after a complaint was lodged at the Sandema Police Station. The traditional priestess wants the perpetrators of the violence on her punished. I was at my home and they came and attacked me. I didnt do anything wrong. So, I want the police to handle the case well and punish them for the severe beatings and other inhumane treatment they made me go through in my own house, she demanded of the police. The attack has left residents of the area shocked. They have expressed surprise at how persons who claim to be men of God could beat a person unprovoked and even threaten to kill her. Source: ghanaweb.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Reverend Dr Kennedy Owiredu, the translation Manager at the Bible society of Ghana, has advised Christians to own a Bible in their local dialects so as to get the actual meaning and understanding of the Bible. That, he noted, would also help them preserve and pass on their local languages to the next generation. Reverend Dr Owiredu was speaking on the sidelines of the 2023 Translation and Trauma Healing Seminar at Sefwi-Dwenase Pentecost Central in the Waiwso Municipality of the Western North Region. The seminar attended by pastors, church leaders and Local Council of churches within the Western North Region was on the theme: Bible Translation and Mother -tongue Interpretation for Pulpit Ministry. According to Reverend Dr Owiredu, among the core responsibilities of the Bible society of Ghana was to translate the Bible into local languages and encouraged pastors, church leaders and religious groups to accept the local Bible in their respective churches. He expressed worry that if pragmatic measures were not put in place, many local languages would die with time because the current society was not passing them unto the youth who are the future generation. Rev. Owiredu Expressed worry in the emerging trend where some churches did not use the local Bible at all for church services and advised those churches to begin using the local Bible during church service, adding, for the Lord we serve speaks all our local dialects. He called on the media to support the campaign for the translation of the Bible into the various languages by contacting the Bible society for the appropriate information. Miss Afua Addae Adjeii-Authur, the Western North Regional Manager of the Bible Society of Ghana, on her part, said they had identified some groups who were supporting people to learn and write the Sehwi language and had graduated three groups since 2020 within Wiawso, Bekwai and Nkwadum areas and would soon be moving to Akontombra and its environs. That, she explained was to motivate residents to use the Bible, which had been translated into Sehwi language, We anticipate the Sehwi language would be a written subject at the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). She in that regard said her outfit had engaged the traditional authorities and stakeholders to make sure it materialized. Some of the participants in an interview with the Ghana News Agency lauded the Bible Society of Ghana for the Seminar and embraced the idea of translating the Bible into local languages. Some of them also asked church leaders to endeavour to use local Bible during church services. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Robert Morris Gives a Roadmap to Make Your Dreams a Reality Dream to Destiny Helps Readers Identify Their Purpose and Fulfill Their Destiny Pastor Robert breathes hope back into every dreamers future. -- Charlotte Gambill, International Speaker and Author NEWS PROVIDED BY Gateway Publishing Sept. 18, 2023 DALLAS, Sept. 18, 2023 /Christian Newswire/ -- Gateway Publishing and Bethany House Publishers (a division of Baker Publishing Group) are pleased to announce the newest release from Robert Morris, Dream to Destiny: A Proven Guide to Navigating Lifes Biggest Tests and Unlocking Your God-Given Purpose, will officially release on September 19, 2023. In this book, pastor and bestselling author Robert Morris shares exactly how to navigate the journey from your dreams to your destiny. Using the biblical story of Joseph, he explains how Joseph had a God-given dream, but he didnt reach his destiny overnight. Over a period of thirteen years, God took Joseph through ten character-building tests that prepared him for his extraordinary future--tests you also need to pass to reach your destiny. Filled with biblical truths, personal stories, and practical applications, Dream to Destiny equips you to successfully persevere through waiting and uncertainty, identify your gifts and talents, and fulfill your God-given destiny. "We all have dreams--dreams for our families, dreams for our finances, and dreams for our chosen vocations, but right now I want to challenge you to dream a little bigger. Allow God to stir in your heart His dream for you. I promise, His dream for you is better. His destiny for you is bigger," Morris writes. Samuel Rodriguez, lead pastor, CEO, author, and producer, says, "My pastor and dear friend Robert Morris has done it again. His writing is founded on universal and biblical truths that educate, motivate, and mobilize readers of all ages and backgrounds. God is glorified, and His plan is realized when we act upon the dreams He places in our hearts. In Dream to Destiny, Robert Morris shows us the way." Robert Morris is the senior pastor of Gateway Church, a multicampus church based in the Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. Since it began in 2000, the church has grown to more than 100,000 active attendees. His television program airs in over 190 countries, and his radio program, Worship & the Word with Pastor Robert, airs in more than 6,400 cities. He serves as chancellor of The Kings University and is the bestselling author of numerous books, including The Blessed Life, Frequency, Beyond Blessed, and The God I Never Knew. Robert and his wife, Debbie, have been married forty-three years and are blessed with one married daughter, two married sons, and nine grandchildren. For more information, to receive a copy of Dream to Destiny, or to schedule an interview with Robert Morris, please contact: Peyton Sepeda -- publishing@gatewaypeople.com -- 855.712.5774 -- gatewaypublishing.com Available wherever books are sold. SOURCE Gateway Publishing CONTACT: Peyton Sepeda, 855-712-5774, publishing@gatewaypeople.com It has emerged that John Allister, the houseboy accused of killing his madam and stealing her Kia Sportage, sold the car for GH100,000. According to information obtained by Daily Guide, the alleged recidivist used part of the proceeds to buy a Toyota Vitz, with plans to use it for Uber services. The police have also retrieved the Toyota Vitz purchased by the suspect. On September 11, John Allister, 22, allegedly stabbed 35-year-old Princess Afia Ahenkan to death at her residence at Apaaso, near Sokoban-Ampabame in the Ashanti Region. On that tragic Monday night, he was alleged to have collaborated with James Anokye in carrying out the murder of Princess Afia Ahenkan, a mother of one. The victim was speaking on her cellphone when Allister John viciously struck her in the head from behind with a large stick, instantly rendering her unconscious and causing her to fall. Allister John then stabbed the woman numerous times, killing her and then dragging her body to the garage. James Anokye, Johns accomplice, drove Princess Ahenkans Kia Sportage to Accra after the horrific act, with the intention of selling it. Further police investigation led to the arrest of suspect John Allister, and his accomplice, James Anokye in Accra, who went into hiding with the deceaseds KIA Sportage private car with registration No. GS 307-21 which they subsequently sold. The car was found at Adenta in Accra with its documents and subsequently impounded at the Oyibi Police Station for further investigation, while efforts are underway to arrest the buyer to assist the investigation. Afias body has since been deposited at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital morgue for preservation and autopsy. The two are expected to be arraigned today and remanded in custody awaiting further investigations. - DAILY GUIDE In a related development......Ghanacelebrities Notorious Ghanaian young man, Alister John has been tagged as a serial criminal after killing his boss, Afia Ahenkan. Before that heinous act, there were reports that Alister John was already on a police wanted list after he ran away with his employers momo capital. Now, more details about Alister Johns background have been shared. According to sources, he comes from a humble background. His mother is dead, but his father is alive. Alister Johns father is reportedly very down to earth. who enjoys his peace. Sources have revealed that Alister John was sacked from the house after he tried to poison his Stepmother and stepbrother. According to reports, he has always been a bad guy at every move he takes. 22 year old Ghanaian young man, Alister John went viral after he killed his madam and ran away with her car. He allegedly murdered a woman who had taken him in as her houseboy just two weeks after being hired. The incident happened 3 weeks ago at Ampayoo in Kumasi, Ashanti Region. Check out a new video of Alister John below; View this post on Instagram A post shared by thosecalledcelebss (@thosecalledcelebss) Source: I.F. Joe Awuah Jnr./Daily Guide Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video NPPs Dome-Kwabenya Constituency secretary, Theophilus Ansah Larbi says the ruling party will lose its seat in the area if it fails to effectively strategize to present a more serious candidate ahead of the 2024 election. He believes the incumbent Member of Parliament for the area, Sarah Adwoa Safo, if maintained, will be disastrous for the party. We are going to lose votes if we continue to pamper her [Adwoa Safo]. We have the men and she is not the only person capable for the constituency, He said in an interview with NEAT FMs morning show, "Ghana Montie". Adding that, NPP is falling in Dome-Kwabenya and something must be done to save the party. Theophilus Ansah Larbi's comment comes hours after Sarah Adwoa Safo offered an unreserved apology to the New Patriotic Party (NPP), specifically to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and the Chief of Staff Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, for her recent behaviour. Mrs Safo clarified that her actions were unintended and were a result of personal challenges she was grappling with, both as an individual and as a member of a family. The former Deputy Majority Leader also sought forgiveness from the Majority Caucus, as well as from the party's regional and constituency executives. Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/peacefmonline.com/ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video National Youth Organizer of the rulking New Patriotic Party(NPP) Salam Mustapha has disclosed that he is overly impressed with the manner in which the Electoral Commission has organized the Limited Voters' Registration exercise. According to him, despite some set backs from the opposition NDC, the exercise has generally been peaceful and well attended. Speaking on Okay FM's 'Ade Akye Abia' programme after visiting some registration centres, he appealed to Ghanaian youth who have turned 18 years or above to visit the various designated centres in their districts to have their names written to enable them cast their vote in the 2024 general elections. He said the NPP government has done most for the Ghanaian youth and this is the time they should show appreciation to the government by registering to get their voter ID card and vote for them to continue the good works they are doing for the people of Ghana. Watch video Below The Limited Voters Registration Exercise by the Electoral Commission (EC) begun at all the 268 District offices of the commission nationwide for eligible Ghanaians, who have turned 18 and above to be enrolled on the register.It forms part of the ECs preparations towards the conduct of the 2024 general elections in 2024.The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Mrs Jean Mensa, has indicated that the registration exercise would end on Monday, October 2, 2023.She added that the exercise would afford Ghanaians who have attained the age of 18 years, since the last registration of 2020 and others who are more than18 years, but for various reasons couldnt register during the 2020 registration exercise.She said Ghanaians who have misplaced their voter identification cards would also be given the opportunity to replace them at a fee of GH10She also mention that admissible documents for registration include a Ghanaian passport, a valid drivers licence, a National Identification card and an old non-biometric voters identity card for those who registered before the 2012 Voters Registration Exercise.Applicants who do not have any of the above documents, may go the registration centres with two registered voters to serve as guarantors for the purpose of registrationThe commission is ready to undertake the limited voter registration exercise and it is the hope and expectation of the Commission that with the measures put in place, we will witness a successful registration exercise, she stated. Source: Isaac Kwame Owusu/Peacefmonline.com/[email protected] Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Mr. Samuel Koku Anyidoho, Founder & CEO of the Atta-Mills Institute (AMI), and former Deputy General Secretary of the opposition NDC, has taken a firm stance in support of maintaining Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, as the partys running mate for the upcoming 2024 general election. Mr. Anyidohos firm stance comes in the wake of a failed attempt over the weekend by Julius Debrah to whip up support for his desperate bid to become running mate. Over the weekend, there was an attempt to organise a so-called Julius Debrah For Running Mate Walk on the Peduase ridge but it failed badly as sensible people refused to show up for such a needless and senseless campaign. According to the outspoken Koku Anyidoho, Instead of Julius Debrah focusing on supporting th NDC to work hard to get people registered during this limited registration period, he is feeding his ego - and it just doesnt make sense at al. According to Koku Anyidoho he really does not understand why Julius should be doing what he is doing at this crucial time. MPs are stuck in Accra and cannot go to their constituencies to effectively monitor the registration process and instead of people focusing on party work, they are rather selfishly focusing on running their egos amok he said. Making his point further Mr. Anyidoho did not mince his words saying It is ipso facto that John Mahama already has lots of very high mountains to scale over by way of convincing the electorate to give him the mandate again after his July 24, 2012 - January 7, 2017, reign which got Ghanaians very angry and voting him ingloriously out of office when he lost in 2016 by over 1 million votes. According to the former Deputy GS, he does not see how the likes of Julius Debrah can pass the integrity test ahead of Jane Naana Agyemang, and that must be a major matter of concern for the NDC. I am very much concerned about issues of integrity and no matter which way we examine it, Professor Naana Opoku-Agyemang is light years ahead of Julius and all the other names being bandied about and if John Mahama makes a mistake and makes the wrong choice, he will carry his cross of defeat again for the third time - and he will not be forgiven. According to Koku, he will not buy into any jaded arguments that the Professor did not add colour to the campaign in 2020. Per the view of the former Deputy GS, what was she supposed to do when the Flagbearer himself had serious issues he could not deal with himself. Was Jane Naana the one to deal with the personal problems and heavy burden of the Flagbearer? Certainly not! If the Flagbearer himself and his close aides failed woefully in handling all the heavy missiles from the NPP, why blame the running mate? Koku asked rhetorically. Koku Anyidoho is of the certain conviction that the issue of integrity is going to be critically examined in next years election and if the NDC allows the Flagbearer to play cha cha with it, the party would have itself to blame. To all intents and purposes, John Mahamas choice of a running mate for the 2024 general election is going to be hotly contested and the electorate will be watching closely and waiting with bated breath. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video When NPP presidential aspirant Hon. Ken Ohene Agyapong reacted to his agents life being threatened, many thought his Showdown warning would doom his campaign. But rather it has evolved into a craze that has taken Ghana by storm. The youth has taken the Showdown and turned it into a trend resulting in a million Cedi business. On Saturday, September 16, 2023, thousands braved the early morning traffic to gather at Ayi Mensah and embarked upon a procession toward the Assin Central MPs Ken City building in Madina where he is expected to address them. So catchy has the Showdown craze become that the main primary opponent and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has joined in using the term on his campaign trail. News reporters along with their camera crews were on the scene to capture the images and speak with some of the teeming supporters. The three-mile-long procession began at Ayi Mensah with over a thousand honking and shouting pro-Ken slogans as thousands more disembarked from buses from the opposing side of the dual-carriage road to join in. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Effect Sizes for High School GPA and ACT Composite Scores on First-Year College GPA. Credit: AERA Open (2023). DOI: 10.1177/23328584231197413 Indicators of high school grades and standardized test scores that take into account the levels of school, neighborhood, and family resources available to students are strongly associated with those students' success in college, according to new research published today. The study, published in AERA Open, emerges against the backdrop of the recent Supreme Court decision to ban race-conscious admissions in higher education institutions. The research was conducted by Michael N. Bastedo at the University of Michigan; Mark Umbricht at the University of North Carolina; and Emma Bausch, Bo-Kyung Byun, and Yiping Bai, all at the University of Michigan. "Admissions officers, particularly at selective institutions, seek to review candidates in the context of their opportunities; prior to this study, we had no idea if that approach was linked with student success once enrolled," said Michael Bastedo, associate dean of research and graduate studies at the University of Michigan's Marsal Family School of Education. "Our findings suggest that contextualizing high school grades and test scores may allow institutions to identify students from diverse backgrounds with strong academic achievement who will graduate," Bastedo said. "Not only is it a legally permissible way for institutions to promote equity, it also helps admissions officers identify students who are very likely to succeed." Study co-author Michael Bastedo discusses major findings and implications. Credit: American Educational Research Association To date, contextualized review has been adopted at a minority of colleges and mostly at selective institutions. The new study indicates that contextualized measures of high school performance could be useful at a much broader range of colleges. "While 95% of selective institutions use some form of holistic review, less selective institutions may also have reasons to evaluate students in context, as a way to improve their retention and graduation rates," Bastedo said. For the study, the authors used data drawn from an anonymous Midwestern state's education department database, which provided data from all public high schools within the state, the state's ACT test database, and the state's 15 public universities. Overall, the high school data cover 2.3 million high school students. The state was chosen because its education department not only collected all high school transcripts for students graduating from high schools from 2010 to 2015, but also mandated the ACT test for all high school juniors during this period. The findings indicated that contextualized high school GPA had a stronger relationship with success than contextualized standardized test scores. Bastedo and his co-authors are unaware of a similar quantitative, large-scale, statewide study that has examined the relationship between contextualized achievement and college success outcomes. "These findings extend our knowledge of the relationship between students' contextualized high school performance and college success, which have so far mostly been limited to studies of class rank," said Bastedo. "This is particularly important as more institutions read applications in context as part of their holistic admissions practices." Bastedo noted that future research should incorporate other measures to examine the contribution of students in a more diverse range of college and post-college outcomes, such as employment, contribution to communities, and participation in graduate and professional school. More information: Bastedo, M. N., et al, Contextualized high school performance: Evidence to inform equitable holistic, test-optional, and test-free admissions policies, AERA Open (2023). DOI: 10.1177/23328584231197413 www.aera.net/Portals/38/Bastedo_AERA%20Open_Final.pdf Provided by American Educational Research Association This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The National School Reform Agreement is made about once every five years in Australia. This is the main way the federal government can steer changes in how Australian schools are run. The current reform agreement ends in December 2024, and the new one is starting to be developed. One of the early priorities is to improve outcomes for all students, "particularly those most at risk of falling behind." An expert panel will deliver a report to all education ministers by the end of October to inform negotiations. Meanwhile, a wide-ranging NDIS Review, looking at the sustainability of the scheme, is also due to report around the same time . Earlier this month, Bruce Bonyhady, the chair of the independent review, said state governments need to build "foundational supports" in schools to reduce the strain on the NDIS. This follows our recent research that showed huge issues with the way students with disability are included in school life. For example, 70% of surveyed students with a disability report being excluded from events or activities at school. Negotiations around the next school reform agreement alongside the NDIS Review provide a real opportunity to better educate and support students with disability. What is the National School Reform Agreement? The National School Reform Agreement is a joint agreement between the federal and state governments that aims to improve student outcomes across schools. It also deals with funding arrangements. Each state or territory makes its own agreement with the federal government. The Albanese government extended the current agreement by a year, with the new one due to begin in January 2025. Within the bilateral agreements are activities that support particular student cohorts. But the current setup is not working adequately for students with disability. In January this year, a Productivity Commission review noted many of the bilateral agreements either did not include specific reform actions for students with disabilities, or did not include details of how this would happen. It also noted there is no NAPLAN data collected on students with disabilitiesso it is very difficult to measure academic progress. The commission suggested linking NDIS data to school reporting. While this would be welcome, it won't capture students with disabilities who are not part of the NDIS. And it won't capture the issues people face at the boundaries of the NDIS and education where there is debate over who should provide funding and support. Unprecedented demand on the NDIS Meanwhile, the NDIS is not necessarily able to provide the support school students need. The NDIS was originally designed to provide funding to individuals with significant and permanent disabilities, estimated to be 10% of the 4.4 million disabled Australians. Today, more than 610,000 individuals receive support from the schemearound 14% of Australians with disability. There has been a particular growth in terms of the number of children in the scheme. More than half of those in the NDIS are under 18 and 11% of five- to seven-year-old boys are participants. Some commentators have argued this is not sustainable, with the NDIS budget estimated to reach A$35 billion this year. Bonyhady says he believes the increase in numbers may be due to a systemic issue. With limited supports outside the NDIS, parents are left with little choice but to try and secure a place on the scheme. The NDIS was never intended to replace existing mainstream services such as education and health. But ambiguities about responsibilities for funding often lead to service gaps. Our research has consistently shown students with similar characteristics can receive inconsistent support, depending on: parents' and/or caregivers' understanding of nuances in the system the community support in the school the student attends the training of teachers and supports within that school, and school leadership decisions on allocation of disability support funding. The importance of inclusive education We know students with disability are not being properly included at school. As our research also found, 54% of those surveyed said they felt welcome, and only 27% felt supported to learn. On top of this, 65% of students reported experiencing bullying and 13% preferred not to answer. Issues such as inadequate teacher preparedness, heightened risk of bullying, and experiences of exclusion can have lifelong repercussions. On the other hand, if mainstream schools are inclusive, this can give students with disabilities friendships, higher aspirations and a richer learning experience. Inclusive education also benefits those without disability. A 2021 meta-analysis showed inclusion at all levels of education reduces discrimination, prejudice and hostility. Academically, results for all students in inclusive primary settings are better than, or equivalent to, non-inclusive settings. So if we have well-funded, inclusive educational environments, we can not only enrich the academic and personal growth of students with and without a disability, but also alleviate the pressure on the NDIS. What needs to happen now? The next reform agreement needs to commit specific funding for the support of students with disability in their school, and the development and training of their educators. We also need a commitment to report properly on students' progress. This means progress is measured also at the individual level (involving individual learning plans), rather than simply against a developmental continuum. Well-funded inclusive education is a human right and is crucial in setting up all young Australians for their future. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Dissected ant and where you can see the encapsulated parasites (white oval structures) spilling out of the hind body. Photo: Brian Lund Fredensborg. Credit: Photo: Brian Lund Fredensborg The lancet liver fluke, Dicrocoelium dendriticum, has a complicated life cycle that begins with the hijacking of an ant's brain. The unsuspecting ant climbs up and clamps its powerful jaws onto the top of a blade of grass, making it more likely to be eaten by grazers such as cattle and deer. Researchers from the University of Copenhagen's Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences have discovered that the parasite's ability to control the ant is even more cunning than previously believed. Impressively, the parasite can even get the ant to crawl back down the blade of grass when it gets too hot. "Getting the ants high up in the grass for when cattle or deer graze during the cool morning and evening hours, and then down again to avoid the sun's deadly rays, is quite smart. Our discovery reveals a parasite that is more sophisticated than we originally believed it to be," explains Associate Professor Brian Lund Fredensborg, who conducted the study together with former graduate student Simone Nordstrand Gasque, now a Ph.D. student at Wageningen University in the Netherlands. The study of the parasite has been published in Behavioral Ecology. The unsuspecting ant climbs up and clamps its powerful jaws onto the top of a blade of grass, making it more likely to be eaten by grazers such as cattle and deer. Credit: Photo: University of Copenhagen Zombie 'on/off switch' The researchers tagged several hundred infected ants in the Bidstrup Forests near Roskilde, Denmark. "It took some dexterity to glue colors and numbers onto the rear segments of the ants, but it allowed us to keep track of them for longer periods of time," says Brian Lund Fredensborg. They then observed the infected ants' behavior in relation to light, humidity, time of day and temperature. It was clear that temperature had an effect on ant behavior. When the temperature was low, the ants were more likely to be attached to the top of a blade of grass. When the temperature rose, the ants relinquished the grass and crawled back down. "We found a clear correlation between temperature and ant behavior. We joked about having found the ants' zombie switch," says Brian Lund Fredensborg. Trojan horse Once the liver fluke infects the ant, several hundred parasites invade the ant's body. But only one makes its way to the brain, where it can influence the ant's behavior. The rest of the liver flukes conceal themselves in the ant's abdomen. "Here, there can be hundreds of liver flukes waiting for the ant to get them into their next host. They are wrapped in a capsule which protects them from the consequent host's stomach acid, while the liver fluke that took control of the ant, dies. You could say that it sacrifices itself for the others," explains Brian Lund Fredensborg. Animals infected with many liver flukes can suffer liver damage as the parasite moves around the host's liver and bile ducts. The researchers tagged several hundred infected ants in the Bidstrup Forests near Roskilde, Denmark. Credit: Photo: University of Copenhagen Nature's biggest influencer Brian Lund Fredensborg notes that there are many other examples of parasites that alter animal behavior. As such, parasites that hijack their host's behavior have a greater hand in the food chain than many might think. According to Fredensborg, this new study sheds light on an extremely underrated group of creatures. "Historically, parasites have never really been focused on that much, despite there being scientific sources which say that parasitism is the most widespread life form. This is in part due to the fact that parasites are quite difficult to study. Nevertheless, the hidden world of parasites forms a significant part of biodiversity, and by changing the host's behavior, they can help determine who eats what in nature. That's why they're important for us to understand," he says. The tiny liver fluke is widespread in Denmark, and other temperate regions worldwide. The researcher and his colleagues will continue to investigate the parasite, and exactly how it takes over an ant's brain. "We now know that temperature determines when the parasite will take over an ant's brain. But we still need to figure out which cocktail of chemical substances the parasite uses to turn ants into zombies," Fredensborg concludes. Liver fluke life cycle The zombie ant: The liver fluke infects an ant's brain causing it to clamp onto a blade of grass so that its next hosta cow, sheep, deer or other grazereats it. Meanwhile, a large flock of flukes awaits transmission in the ant's abdomen. The grazer: Once the grazer ingests an infected ant, it becomes infected with the liver fluke also. The liver fluke that took control of the ant's brain dies in the host's stomach acid. The larger flock in the ant's abdomen is protected by a capsule that only dissolves once in the host's intestine. Here, the liver flukes find their way through the bile ducts into the liver, where they suck blood and develop into adult flukes that begin to lay eggs, which are then excreted via the host animal's feces . The snail: Once the fluke eggs have been excreted, they lie on the ground waiting for a snail to crawl by and consume the feces. Within the snail, the eggs develop into larval flukes that reproduce asexually, where they can multiply into several thousand. The slime ball: To exit the snail and move on to their next host, the larval flukes cause the snail to cough, thereby expelling them in a lump of mucus. Ants are attracted to the ball of mucus and consume it, and in doing so, ingest the fluke larvae. More information: Simone Nordstrand Gasque et al, Expression of trematode-induced zombie-ant behavior is strongly associated with temperature, Behavioral Ecology (2023). DOI: 10.1093/beheco/arad064 Journal information: Behavioral Ecology This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Understanding ant activity on bodies can help us reconstruct the events that occurred at the time of death and during early post-mortem periods. For the first time, a study has been carried out looking at 10 real cases of ant activity on cadavers during the early post-mortem period. The new research proposes a classification system to aid in identifying bloodstain patterns caused by ant activity. The study is published in the journal Forensic Sciences. Although ant activity has been mostly reported as abrasions on decomposing bodies in the past, it has been found that ants can produce alterations that mimic active or recent hemorrhages, which can be misleading during investigations. The proposed classifications could aid in identifying and describing ant-produced external hemorrhages, determining the body's original position and potential movement, and providing clues about the cause of death. Lead author, Murdoch University's Dr. Paola Magni, says this new understanding of ant activity will help with the accuracy of future investigations. "Forensic entomologists reconstruct criminal events using insects, with blowflies playing a significant role. However, ants are often overlooked as a mere incidental presence on a cadaver, and their importance can be missed by an untrained eye," Dr. Magni said. "At the crime scene, fly spots from excrement and vomit can be mistaken for high-velocity blood splatter resulting from gunshots. A forensic entomologist can distinguish between gun-shot related evidence and insect-related marks by analyzing stain distribution and DNA from the stains. "We now also know that ant activity should be considered as a potential cause of hemorrhage when the origin of the lesion is unclear, even in the absence of visible insects." The study, conducted in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in India, describes the 10 cases of post-mortem ant activity and analyses the resulting external hemorrhagic artifacts, which could have been misunderstood. Dr. Magni says a new classification system will help develop wider understanding of the significance of insect ecology to enhance forensic investigations. "Ultimately, the new classifications could improve the accuracy of reconstructing the events that occurred during the early post-mortem period, as well as the circumstances surrounding death," she said. This area of research will be ongoing due to the changing nature of ants and insects as invasive species make their impact across the world. "We continue to learn more about the impact of blowflies, beetles and ants in the post-mortem periodbut ants in Australia are changing, so what does that mean for long term criminal investigations," Dr. Magni said. "We are now looking into how these changes in species will have a different impact on cadavers as there will be ongoing implications in the forensic space." More information: Yogesh Kumar et al, Haemorrhagic Artefacts Produced by Ant Activity on Human Cadavers in the Early Post-Mortem Period, Forensic Sciences (2023). DOI: 10.3390/forensicsci3030035 Journal information: Forensic Sciences This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain A new study finds that creating physical gaps in the forest canopy gives Eastern hemlocks more access to resources and help those trees withstand infestation by an invasive insect. The approach adds another tool to the toolkit that foresters can use to protect these trees. The paper is published in the journal Forest Ecology and Management. Eastern hemlocks are an ecologically important tree species found from eastern Canada to the Great Lakes states and south along the entire Appalachian mountain range. The hemlock woolly adelgidan invasive insect that was introduced to North America 70 years ago and has spread along the East Coastcan kill a hemlock tree in as little as four years. "An integrated pest management strategy is the best approach in cases like this," says Robert Jetton, associate professor of forest health at North Carolina State University and study co-author. "Integrated pest management utilizes multiple tactics to combat insect pests and can include chemical insecticides, seed preservation, biological control, and silviculture, or managing the surrounding forest. "This study focused on silviculture. Is there a way to actively manage a forest to improve the health of Eastern hemlocks?" The study began in 2017. Jetton and colleagues from the U.S. Department of Agriculture selected 105 Eastern hemlock trees in national and state forests along the Appalachians from Maryland to Georgia. They created small or large canopy gaps around the trees by either felling or girdling the competing trees. Felling is cutting down the tree outright, while girdling refers to killing the tree by removing its access to nutrients, but not cutting it down. The gaps around the hemlocks ranged in size from .05 to .15 acre. Small gaps were created by felling or girdling any competing tree that overlapped the hemlock's outermost branches, or dripline. For large gaps, they created a radius around the hemlock that was equal to the dripline plus 25% of the average tree height in the stand. For comparison, the researchers also monitored a control group that consisted of hemlocks that didn't have canopy gaps created around them. The researchers collected data on the trees every six months from late 2017 through early 2021. One tree had died (due to another tree falling on it), but overall, even though all of the "canopy gap" trees in the study were infested with woolly adelgid, their health had substantially improved. By comparison, the health of the control trees continued to decline. "The major benefit of the treatment is that the trees' crown health improved, especially in areas where we did the large fell," Jetton says. "Crown health refers to the tree's foliageits color and density. With all four gap treatments, we saw that the trees continued to produce new shoot growth annually, though this effect was greatest in the large fells. This is good news because woolly adelgids feed on branch tips, so one of the first effects of infestation is that the tree stops producing new growth." While the treatment's effectiveness varied by regionit was more effective in the southernmost sites (North Carolina, Georgia and Tennessee)the researchers believe the results are encouraging. "The canopy gaps give the trees better access to resources like water and nutrients that help them deal with the adelgid," Jetton says. "While it doesn't cause the adelgid population to decrease, it may be giving trees the ability to 'outgrow' the insect's impact, at least temporarily." The study is ongoing, and the researchers plan to focus next on stands of hemlocks, rather than single trees. "Our study was conducted in forests where hemlocks occurred under a canopy of primarily hardwood trees, which lose their leaves in fall and winter," says Albert Mayfield, entomologist with the USDA Forest Service and study co-author. "So, the response of hemlocks to canopy gaps might be different in pure hemlock forests, where there is more year-round shade. But our sites were very typical of the southern Appalachian forests, where hemlock trees are usually mixed with hardwood trees." "We see silviculture as part of the overall pest management strategy," says Jetton. "Hopefully it will benefit biological control efforts by allowing the adelgid's predators to establish populations, and it may decrease our use of chemicals. But the bottom line is this study shows silviculture is another tool in the toolkit to increase the survival rate of Eastern hemlocks." Albert Mayfield of the USDA Forest Service is corresponding author. NC State research associate Andy Whittier, and USDA Forest Service members Bryan Mudder, Tara Keyser, and James Rhea, also contributed to the work. More information: Albert E. Mayfield III et al, Silvicultural canopy gaps improve health and growth of eastern hemlocks infested with Adelges tsugae in the southern Appalachian Mountains, Forest Ecology and Management (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.foreco.2023.121374 Journal information: Forest Ecology and Management Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) Innovative digital-only bank CIMB Bank Philippines and Visa, a global leader in payments technology, have signed a strategic partnership to work together towards their common goal of making financial solutions easier to access and more innovative for all Filipinos. This collaboration is a powerful convergence of CIMB Bank PHs groundbreaking digital-first offerings and Visas global network of merchants and world-class technology. The mutually beneficial alliance reinforces CIMB Bank Philippines debit products growth through its virtual and physical cards while giving Visa exposure to a new set of customers via CIMBs following, as well as those of its other partners. Visa will also be providing CIMB customers with exclusive discounts and other privileges when the Banks customers use their Virtual Debit Card with select Visa merchants. At CIMB Bank PH, we have always been committed to pioneering digital banking solutions and driving financial inclusion. Working together with Visa enables us to take this commitment to the next level by offering our customers enhanced payment solutions that are secure and convenient, to help allay the Filipinos hesitancy over digital banking, while also contributing to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Digital Payments Transformation Roadmap, which targets to make 50% of total retail transaction volumes digital, said Vijay Manoharan, CEO of CIMB Bank Philippines. CIMB Bank currently has close to 500,000 virtual and physical card customers. Jeff Navarro, Visa Country Manager for the Philippines and Guam, likewise expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, This milestone marks an important step towards our shared vision of providing accessible and innovative financial solutions to consumers, thereby boosting financial inclusion for Filipinos everywhere. By leveraging Visas global network and expertise and CIMB Bank PHs digital leadership, we are set to create an unparalleled customer experience that caters to the evolving needs of the modern customer. CIMB Bank PH brings its extensive customer base of over 7 million users and its leadership in embedded banking to the partnership. Its commitment to empowering partner products on its platform also aligns perfectly with Visas vision of uplifting everyone, everywhere, by being the best way to pay and be paid. CIMB Bank PH and Visa are poised to boost the payment landscape in the Philippines and contribute to the financial inclusion goals of the country. Customers can expect an even more seamless and secure payment experience with their CIMB Visa Debit Card while also leveraging on the many other features of the CIMB Bank PH app. Read more about the banks products and promos on www.cimbbank.com.ph, as well as on its Facebook and Instagram pages. 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: Activist Groups Conducting Museum Vandalism. Credit: npj Climate Action (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s44168-023-00054-5 Environmental advocacy, with roots in Rachel Carson's 1962 book "Silent Spring" and the first Earth Day observances in 1970, has manifested in various forms over the years, including boycotts, blockades, and protests. In 2022, some environmental activists began vandalizing art and museums in a new form of protest. Who are these activists? When and where have they acted? Beyond that, what's behind this new tactic? In an attempt to shed light on this topic, a trio of researchers from the University of Washington (UW) in the U.S. has undertaken a comprehensive review of articles, books, and social media postings. Their findings appear as a Brief Communication in npj Climate Action. Frustrated with slow progress on emission reductions, some climate activists have staged various forms of non-violent but disruptive (NVD) action in recent years. Radical actions such as disrupting road traffic, stopping trains, the Standing Rock protests against the Dakota Access Pipeline, and Greta Thunberg's "Fridays for Future" school strikes have all garnered considerable media attention. Whether such actions have helped or hindered the activists' goals is a matter of debate. While the researchers rightly observe, "After all, a lack of public awareness is not hindering climate progress," they also note that gas and oil drilling continues, and that a number of U.S. states have enacted legislation criminalizing protests against fossil fuel pipelines. However, they write, some scholars argue that such actions by radical groups might make more well-known, mainstream groupsGreenpeace and the Citizens' Climate Lobby are two examplesappear to public officials to be more reasonable, and their demands more moderate. Earlier research has dubbed this the "radical flank effect." A look at the numbers At the time they submitted their findings in May 2023, the UW researchers had found 16 groups linked to 38 documented incidents during 2022, with 36 of these attributed to organized groups acting in museums within their countries of origin. Three additional incidents occurring in 2023 were not included in the findings. Of note during 2022 were: Ultima Generazione (Italy and Vatican): Nine incidents Just Stop Oil (U.K.): Seven incidents Letzte Generation (Germany): Six incidents Stop Fossil Fuel Subsidies (Australia): Two incidents One-time actions by other groups, actions attributed to same-name unaffiliated groups in other countries, and two actions carried out by single individuals comprised the other 14 incidents. Furthermore: Five of the seven U.K. incidents occurred within a seven-day period in July 2022. In Italy and Vatican City, four incidents took place within a 31-day period during July and August 2022. Beginning immediately after the final August incident in Italy, four incidents in Germany occurred during four consecutive days in August 2022. A single incident occurred in Italy during September 2022, eight in various parts of Europe and one in Australia during October 2022, and 11 worldwide during November 2022. Eight of the November incidents took place during the U.N.'s Sharm El-Sheikh Climate Change Conference (COP 27) in Egypt from November 618. The researchers note that the A22 Network may provide a means of coordination for the groups Ultima Generazione, Just Stop Oil, and Letzte Generation, which it lists as members. The organization's website describes it as "a group of interconnected projects engaged in a mad race: to try to save humanity." Interestingly, activists made specific demands during only nine of the 38 documented incidents in 2022, and all but one of those came from groups or individuals other than those associated with the A22 Network. The three A22-affiliated groups are generally concerned with rapid emission reductions by the fossil fuel sector. The research team's data is available at the Harvard Dataverse. The big question: Why vandalize art and museums? Within the movement for environmental advocacywhich seeks to protect pristine nature, to create sustainable development in modern society, and to call attention to the effects of environmental issues on the day-to-day existence of poor and underprivileged individualsthe researchers note the difficulty of understanding the place of these museum protests. But it may be simpler than that. A statement by a Just Stop Oil activist, who had taken part in vandalizing a work by Vermeer in The Hague, may hold a clue: "How do you feel when you see something beautiful and priceless apparently being destroyed before your eyes? Do you feel outraged? Good. Where is that feeling when you see the planet being destroyed?" The team's work ends on a note of uncertainty. If climate policy progress remains slow, will we see further radicalization of activist tactics and goals, or collaboration among activists, governments, and corporations? Will the "radical flank effect" motivate governments to respond in meaningful ways? Ultimately, the disruptive tactic of vandalism raises more questions to be answered. More information: Lily Kinyon et al, When, where, and which climate activists have vandalized museums, npj Climate Action (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s44168-023-00054-5 Journal information: npj Climate Action 2023 Science X Network This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Extreme heat and flooding are threatening key international apparel hubs, with four countries vital to the fashion industry facing losses of 1 million jobs and $65 billion in earnings by 2030, according to two new ILR School reports. The "Higher Ground?" reports, which examine how workers and the industry can adapt to climate change and approve working conditions in the apparel sector, were published Sept. 13 by the Global Labor Institute at Cornell University and Schroders, an investment management firm. Fashion, the third highest global producer of greenhouse gases, focuses its climate change efforts on mitigation goals such as increasing use of recycled fabrics and reducing water usage, according to the reports. But fashion largely ignores the effects of climate breakdown on workers, communities and industries producing the world's garments. The first report, "Fashion's Climate Breakdown and its Effect for Workers," focuses on 32 apparel production centers vulnerable to heat and flooding due to climate change. The second report, "Climate Resilience and Fashion's Costs of Adaptation," focuses on six brands in the major apparel production countries, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Pakistan and Vietnam, where 10,000 apparel and footwear factories employ 10.6 million workers. "Our work addresses the risks of fashion staying on the low road of mitigation. Workers' health and income would be even more highly threatened than it is now, and the industry would face long-term losses," said Jason Judd, executive director of the institute. "The 'higher ground' approach would improve worker wellness, job creation, export earnings and the viability of the industry," he said. Findings from the reports, based on climate models projecting heat and flooding impacts, include: Bangladesh, Cambodia, Pakistan and Vietnam, which produce 18% of global apparel exports, could lose $65 billiona 22% declinein export earnings by 2030, along with nearly 1 million new jobs due to slower growth. By 2050, continuing current practices in the four countries leading production could result in 68.8% lower industry earnings and the loss of 8.6 million jobs, a 34.5% employment drop. Fashion brands and retailers that shift sourcing away from climate-vulnerable areas would struggle to build the large-scale capacity they benefit from in South and Southeast Asia. Recommendations include: Establish paid leave, the right to stop work, altered work hours, adequate rest and water, and other employee protections. Develop climate adaptation financing that redistributes costs and risks away from apparel workers. Establish binding agreements and foster formal partnerships between brands, manufacturers, employers, unions and governments to address and adapt to climate breakdown. Exploration by brands and suppliers on investment returns from adaptation measures and support for suppliers to retrofit or relocate nearby in lower-risk locations. Engagement by investors with apparel companies and their stakeholders to encourage adoption of adaptation measures. Government integration of climate adaptation and worker rights-related factors into trade policies. Sarosh Kuruvilla, ILR's Andrew J. Nathanson Family Professor in Industrial and Labor Relations and academic director of the Global Labor Institute, said, "By clarifying the industry's exposure to climate risks, our work with Schroders is a wake-up call for manufacturers, brands, investors and apparel-exporting country governments to treat heat and flood events as health and economic hazards that need urgent attention." Angus Bauer, head of sustainable investment research at Schroders, said the research highlights the urgent need for action. "Investors must begin to engage with apparel companies and their stakeholders to ensure they start to measure and address the significant challenges of physical climate impacts on workers and business models," Bauer said. 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: Traveling from London to Vienna by train: Possible routes through smaller cities are displayed as a graph. Credit: XJTLU Have you ever tried to do a brainteaser in which you have to connect the dots to make the outline of a house in one continuous stroke without going back over your lines? Or perhaps you've clicked on Facebook's friend recommendations or played Settlers of Catan. If so, you've experienced a form of graph theory, a field of mathematics that fascinates Dr. Xujun Liu of Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, China. "My initial plan was to pursue a different field of mathematics, but I became captivated by the elegance and beauty of proof ideas in graph theory," says Dr. Liu. Graph theory is a branch of mathematics that explores the relationships and properties of graphsbut we're not talking about pie charts and scatter plots. Say you wanted to work out the most efficient way to travel between London and Vienna by train. You could draw each city as a dot (called a vertex in mathematics), and the routes between the cities as lines or curves (called edges). This combination of vertices and edges makes up a graph. The graph could then be used to study the connections and routes between the two cities. Graph theory can help mathematicians to model and analyze complex networks in various fields, including computer science and electrical engineering. In collaboration with Dr. Michael Santana and Dr. Taylor Short from the Grand Valley State University, U.S., Dr. Liu has recently solved a problem that has attracted a lot of attention from graph theory researchers. The paper, "Every subcubic multigraph is (1,27)-packing edge-colorable," is published in The Journal of Graph Theory. An example of coloring: A minimum of two colors is needed for the four dots if there are never two dots of the same color next to each other. Credit: Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) Color me different The team's research involves an aspect of graph theory called coloring. The theory of coloring deals with the problem of labeling parts of a graph to comply with certain rules and avoid specific conflicts. For example, imagine you wanted to color each dot below so that there were never two dots of the same color next to each otherthis is an example of coloring. Dr. Liu explains, "I work on a type of coloring called packing coloring, which is by a frequency assignment problem in broadcast networks. "There are many broadcast stations in the world, and we would like to assign each station a frequency; stations assigned the same frequency are required to be at least a certain distance apart, and each frequency requires a different smallest distance. "One of the questions that arise from this problem is 'what is the minimum number of frequencies needed for such an assignment?'" Strategic development In his most recent work, Dr. Liu and his collaborators successfully solved a problem proposed by mathematicians Hocquard, Lajou, and Luzar in the Journal of Graph Theory in 2022. This problem involves the division of subcubic graphs, where each vertex (dot) has a maximum of three edges (lines) attached to it. The task is to determine how to partition the edges into multiple classes, considering that there are two distinct types of edges Type Irequires that each pair of edges does not share an endpoint (each edge has two endpoints). An example of a pair of edges that do not share an endpoint. Credit: Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) Type IIrequires that each pair of edges within it not only do not share an endpoint but also that their endpoints are not connected by another edge. An example of two edges that do not share an endpoint and their endpoints are not connected by another edge. Credit: Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) The question the team set out to solve is whether it is possible to minimize the number of type II classes while keeping the number of type I classes fixed at one. Dr. Liu says, "By resolving this conjecture, we have made a significant contribution to enhancing our understanding of the structural properties of subcubic graphs and may provide insights to resolve the famous Erdos- Nesetril conjecture. "It may also provide guidance to solving problems in communication networks." Since Dr. Liu made the decision to study graph theory under the Ph.D. supervision of Professor Alexandr Kostochka at the University of Illinois, he has successfully solved several conjectures, including a problem proposed by the 2012 Abel Prize winner Szemeredi and his co-authors. Dr. Liu says he will continue to tackle more problems in the field. "I plan to continue researching graph coloring problems, focusing on exploring packing colorings via additional methodologies such as the Combinatorial Nullstellensatz and probabilistic methods. "By pursuing these research directions, I hope to make meaningful contributions to the field," he says. More information: Xujun Liu et al, Every subcubic multigraph is (1,27) packing edgecolorable, Journal of Graph Theory (2023). DOI: 10.1002/jgt.23004 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: We are living in a poly-crisis, but knowledge about our past can help to guide the way. Credit: Unsplash It's no longer just about stopping, but how we can live with climate change. A study by the Complexity Science Hub points out how our history could help guide the way. Currently, we are grappling with a global crisis convergence. Various types of threats intersect, intertwine, and test our collective resilience, from climate change and economic inequality to political polarization. Although the scale and global reach of these challenges present new hurdles, these threats have been faced and, sometimes, overcome in the past. Societies today barely have time to recover from one crisis to the next, but we possess a significant advantage: knowledge. The knowledge we can obtain from our history through new methods. Data from more than 150 crises CSH researchers Peter Turchin and Daniel Hoyer have pioneered fresh approaches to drawing lessons from history. Together with colleagues from different fields, they have compiled the Crisis Database (CrisisDB) as part of the Global History Databank Seshat, containing over 150 past crises spanning different time periods and regions. The study "Navigating Polycrisis: long-run socio-cultural factors shape response to changing climate" was published in Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences. When earthquakes shook the earth, droughts parched the land, or floods ravaged regions, some societies succumbed to social unrest, civil violence, or total collapse, while others exhibited resilience, maintaining essential social functions or even achieving improvement through systemic reforms that promoted well-being and increased democratic participation. Hoyer remarks, "What we observe is that not every ecological shock or climatic anomaly leads to collapse or even a severe crisis, and not every crisis involves a major environmental stressor." But what makes the difference? What drives collapse versus positive change? Divergent experiences in different times and places To illustrate the divergent dynamics experienced by past societies, and to highlight the comprehensiveness of their data, the researchers provide three examples. The Zapotec hilltop settlement of Monte Alban in southern Mexico emerged as the most significant settlement in the region. Extreme, persistent drought hit the region in the 9th century, and the once-great site of Monte Alban was entirely abandoned along with many other cities in Mesoamerica. However, recent research presented here shows that this was hardly a case of"'societal collapse," as many former residents of Monte Alban resettled in smaller communities nearby, likely without massive mortality, but rather through an ideological and socio-economic reorientation that also preserved many aspects of their society. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the immensely wealthy Qing Dynasty in China proved resilient to adverse ecological conditionsrecurrent floods, droughts, swarms of locustsduring the early part of their reign, but by the 19th century, social pressures had built up leaving them more vulnerable to these same challenges. It was in this period that suffered the Taiping Rebellion, often seen as the bloodiest civil war in human history, and ultimately collapsed completely in 1912 after 250 years of rule. Learn more about the causes in a new study. In between, the researchers highlight the Ottoman Empire, which faced daunting environmental conditions during the 16th century, including recurrent droughts and the Little Ice Age, leading to social unrest and numerous rebellions led by disgruntled local officials and wealthy families, yet they managed to maintain key social and political structures and avoided collapse, ruling a large swath of territory for several hundreds of years more. Generalizable to multiple cases "Many studies typically concentrate on a single event or a specific society. However, it is only by exploring the responses of all, or at least many, societies affected by a particular climate 'regime' that we can ascertain the causal influence and overall effectiveness of the environmental stressor," Peter Turchin says. With this objective in mind, the researchers have developed a methodological framework aimed at producing insights that can be applied to numerous cases across different regions and time periods, helping identify the underlying causes of divergent outcomes. Understanding the dynamics "The course of a crisis hinges on numerous factors. Environmental forces are undeniably pivotal, but it's not as straightforward as a specific climate event triggering a predetermined societal response," said Turchin. Instead, these forces interact with cultural, political, and economic dynamics. Only by comprehending these dynamics can we fathom the interactions. Through their work on the CrisisDB program, the researchers and colleagues aim to unveil these patterns and pinpoint the key factors that either fortify or undermine resilience to contemporary climate shocks. Reducing social inequality One key initial finding is that slowly evolving structural forces, such as escalating social inequality, which also happens currently, can erode social resilience. Hoyer emphasizes, "Dealing with large-scale threats demands considerable societal cohesion." As an example, he cites the COVID pandemic. Societies that showed higher levels of cohesion and the capacity for collective action before COVID broke out navigated the pandemic more effectively and successfully implemented the necessary distancing measures. "Given that we reside in an era marked by increasing ecological shocks, economic disruptions, inequality, and major conflicts, our focus should be on reducing these structural pressures to build this kind of cohesion and resilience," Hoyer says. Bali rice experiment The Special Issue also features a study by Stephen Lansing (CSH External Faculty and Santa Fe Institute) and I Wayan Alit Artha Wiguna (Balai Pengkajian Teknologi Pertanian Bali) that could not only transform rice farming methods but also significantly mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. Asia alone boasts over 200 million rice farms, and rice fields contribute to a substantial 11% of global methane emissions. This study has the potential to be a game-changer. Initial indications suggest that by regulating irrigation, greenhouse gas emissions could be reduced by a remarkable 70%, while also reducing excess commercial nitrogen fertilizer flowing from rice paddies to rivers and coral reefs. With this method, the rice field was not flooded as usual and therefore did not provide an ideal environment for anaerobic, methane-emitting bacteria. Instead, it was drained and irrigated only when hairline cracks appeared in the surface. In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the farmer who owned the demonstration plot increased his crop yield on the drained field by more than 20%. Lansing, who is an ecological anthropologist, has been researching Indonesia's rice paddies since his arrival in Bali in 1974. More information: Daniel Hoyer et al, Navigating polycrisis: long-run socio-cultural factors shape response to changing climate, Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences (2023). DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2022.0402 Journal information: Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: CC0 Public Domain As the days get shorter and chillier in the northern hemisphere, those who choose to work out in the mornings might find it harder to get up and running. A study in PNAS identifies a protein that, when missing, makes exercising in the cold that much harderthat is, at least in fruit flies. A team from University of Michigan Medical School and Wayne State University School of Medicine discovered the protein in flies, which they named Iditarod after the famous long distance dog sled across Alaska, while studying metabolism and the effect of stress on the body. They were particularly interested in a physiological process called autophagy wherein damaged parts of cells are removed from the body. In screening the fly genome, they found a candidate for regulating the critical housekeeping procedure. They demonstrated the link between autophagy and Iditarod, or Idit, by tweaking the genetic makeup of some flies to over-activate autophagy in their eyes. Flies with too much autophagy had massive cell death leading to visible degeneration of the eye. Inactivating Idit gene restored the normal eye structure, indicating that Idit gene is involved in the autophagy process. The team's next step was to look for a similar gene, or homolog, in humans. "When we queried this gene in the human genome, a gene called FNDC5, which is a precursor to the protein irisin, was the top hit," said Jun Hee Lee, Ph.D, of the U-M Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology. Previous research has shown irisin to be an important hormone involved in producing musculoskeletal and other benefits of exercise in mammals, as well as playing a role in adaptation to cold temperatures. Lee's lab had an existing interest in exercise as a mild form of bodily stress. "We realized this gene may be also important for exercise and if so, we should be able to detect a similar physiological effect in flies," said Lee. Working with Dr. Robert Wessells team at Wayne State University who developed a novel way to train fruit flies, the investigators used a sort of fly cliff climber that capitalizes on the insect's instinct to climb upward out of a test tube. They found that flies that were bred to lack the Idit gene had impaired exercise endurance, and lacked the improvement typically seen after training. Furthermore, irisin in mammals is known to upregulate thermogenic processes, which is critical for cold resistance. Interestingly, flies without Idit were also unable to tolerate cold. What this tells us, says Lee, is this gene family, present in invertebrates as well as mammals appears to have been conserved throughout evolution and serves an important function. "We believe that exercise helps clean the cellular environment through autophagy," said Lee. "When you are exercising hard, there is damage to the muscle and some of the mitochondria will malfunction," said Lee. "The autophagy process becomes activated to clean up any damaged organelles or toxic byproducts, and Idit gene seems important in this process." Lee hopes to next connect this work to their previous work on exercise and physiological stress. Additional authors include Tyler Cobb, Irene Hwang, Michael Soukar, Sim Namkoong, Uhn-Soo Cho4, and Myungjin Kim. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain The passenger pigeon. The Tasmanian tiger. The Baiji, or Yangtze river dolphin. These rank among the best-known recent victims of what many scientists have declared the sixth mass extinction, as human actions are wiping out vertebrate animal species hundreds of times faster than they would otherwise disappear. Yet, an analysis from Stanford University and the National Autonomous University of Mexico, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, shows the crisis may run even deeper. Each of the three species above was also the last member of its genus, the higher category into which taxonomists sort species. And they aren't alone. Up to now, public and scientific interest has focused on extinctions of species. But in their new study, Gerardo Ceballos, senior researcher at the Institute of Ecology at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, and Paul Ehrlich, Bing Professor of Population Studies, Emeritus, in the Stanford School of Humanities and Sciences, have found that entire genera (the plural of "genus") are vanishing as well, in what they call a "mutilation of the tree of life." "In the long term, we're putting a big dent in the evolution of life on the planet," Ceballos said. "But also, in this century, what we're doing to the tree of life will cause a lot of suffering for humanity." "What we're losing are our only known living companions in the entire universe," said Ehrlich, who is also a senior fellow, emeritus, by courtesy, at the Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment. A 'biological annihilation' Information on species' conservation statuses from the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, Birdlife International, and other databases has improved in recent years, which allowed Ceballos and Ehrlich to assess extinction at the genus level. Drawing from those sources, the duo examined 5,400 genera of land-dwelling vertebrate animals, encompassing 34,600 species. A total of 73 genera of land-dwelling vertebrates, Ceballos and Ehrlich found, have gone extinct since 1500 AD. Birds suffered the heaviest losses with 44 genus extinctions, followed in order by mammals, amphibians, and reptiles. Based on the historic genus extinction rate among mammalsestimated for the authors by Anthony Barnosky, professor emeritus of integrative biology at UC Berkeleythe current rate of vertebrate genus extinction exceeds that of the last million years by 35 times. This means that, without human influence, Earth would likely have lost only two genera during that time. In five centuries, human actions have triggered a surge of genus extinctions that would otherwise have taken 18,000 years to accumulatewhat the paper calls a "biological annihilation." "As scientists, we have to be careful not to be alarmist," Ceballos acknowledgedbut the gravity of the findings in this case, he explained, called for more powerful language than usual. "We would be unethical not to explain the magnitude of the problem, since we and other scientists are alarmed." Next-level loss, next-level consequences On many levels, genus extinctions hit harder than species extinctions. When a species dies out, Ceballos explained, other species in its genus can often fill at least part of its role in the ecosystem. And because those species carry much of their extinct cousin's genetic material, they also retain much of its evolutionary potential. Pictured in terms of the tree of life, if a single "twig" (a species) falls off, nearby twigs can branch out relatively quickly, filling the gap much as the original twig would have. In this case, the diversity of species on the planet remains more or less stable. But when entire "branches" (genera) fall off, it leaves a huge hole in the canopya loss of biodiversity that can take tens of millions of years to "regrow" through the evolutionary process of speciation. Humanity cannot wait that long for its life-support systems to recover, Ceballos said, given how much the stability of our civilization hinges on the services Earth's biodiversity provides. Take the increasing prevalence of Lyme disease: white-footed mice, the primary carriers of the disease, used to compete with passenger pigeons for foods, like acorns. With the pigeons gone and predators like wolves and cougars on the decline, mouse populations have boomedand with them, human cases of Lyme disease. This example involves the disappearance of just one genus. A mass extinction of genera could mean a proportional explosion of disasters for humanity. It also means a loss of knowledge. Ceballos and Ehrlich point to the gastric brooding frog, also the final member of an extinct genus. Females would swallow their own fertilized eggs and raise tadpoles in their stomachs, while "turning off" their stomach acid. These frogs might have provided a model for studying human diseases like acid reflux, which can raise the risk of esophageal cancerbut now they're gone. Loss of genera could also exacerbate the worsening climate crisis. "Climate disruption is accelerating extinction, and extinction is interacting with the climate, because the nature of the plants, animals, and microbes on the planet is one of the big determinants of what kind of climate we have," Ehrlich pointed out. A crucial, and still absent, response To prevent further extinctions and resulting societal crises, Ceballos and Ehrlich are calling for immediate political, economic, and social action on unprecedented scales. Increased conservation efforts should prioritize the tropics, they noted, since tropical regions have the highest concentration of both genus extinctions and genera with only one remaining species. The pair also called for increased public awareness of the extinction crisis, especially given how deeply it intersects with the more-publicized climate crisis. "The size and growth of the human population, the increasing scale of its consumption, and the fact that the consumption is very inequitable are all major parts of the problem," the authors said. "The idea that you can continue those things 'and' save biodiversity is insane," Ehrlich added. "It's like sitting on a limb and sawing it off at the same time." 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: Cross plot of 33S and 36S for intervals III and IV in drill core ZK102.The black line shows linear regression slope, and the dark gray and light gray areas show 2 and 3 confidence intervals, respectively. Credit: Science Advances (2023). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adh9502 A research team led by Prof. Shen Yan'an from the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) conducted a systematic study of the interglacial stratigraphy in South China by means of high-precision sulfur and mercury isotope analyses. This study introduced a new perspective, suggesting that the melting of "Snowball Earth" induced large-scale volcanic activities. Furthermore, the research has provided evidence that the gradual oxidation of interglacial oceans created favorable environmental conditions crucial for the evolution of early and complex life. The results were published in Science Advances. The research team focused their study on the Datangpo Formation in South China, aiming to investigate the changes in the Earth's surface environment and climate system following the thawing of the "Snowball Earth." The Datangpo Formation not only represents a significant source of large and even super-large sedimentary manganese deposits in China but also provides a nearly complete record of the climate and environmental changes between two "Snowball Earth" events. Based on multiple field surveys and investigations, the team selected a drill core from the Datangpo Formation, spanning hundreds of meters, for geological, stratigraphic, and geochemical analyses. The study results indicate that during the initial stages of the "Snowball Earth" thawing, the chemical composition of seawater was primarily influenced by hydrothermal venting on the seafloor. This finding indirectly reflects the fundamental differences between the ocean during the "Snowball Earth" period and a normal ocean. During that time, the exchange and circulation of substances among the ocean, atmosphere, and land were severely limited. The variations in non-mass-dependent mercury isotopes provide evidence for the intensification of volcanic activity during the deglaciation of the "Snowball Earth." In light of this finding, the research team proposed a new perspective that the rapid thawing of the "Snowball Earth" led to a sudden reduction in surface pressure, thereby triggering magmatic activity deep within the Earth and subsequent volcanic eruptions. They also identified anomalies in the sulfur isotope composition of pyrite in interglacial sediments, including slight non-mass-dependent sulfur isotope fractionation. However, the sedimentary sequence clearly indicates that this minor non-mass-dependent sulfur isotope fractionation is not causally related to volcanic activity. The team then postulates that the minor non-mass-dependent sulfur isotope fractionation is a result of the "Snowball Earth" altering the sulfur isotope composition of seawater sulfates. In addition, the temporal variations in sulfur isotopes demonstrate a gradual increase in sulfate concentration in interglacial seawater, indicating a progressive oxidation of the atmospheric and oceanic systems during that period. Considering the changes in atmospheric chemistry, a gradual decrease in surface temperatures, and the progressive oxygenation of the oceans during the interglacial period, the team proposed that the environmental and climatic changes on the Earth's surface during the interglacial period promoted the evolution of early complex life forms. More information: Menghan Li et al, Deglacial volcanism and reoxygenation in the aftermath of the Sturtian Snowball Earth, Science Advances (2023). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adh9502 Journal information: Science Advances Provided by University of Science and Technology of China (CNN) Russell Brand is defending himself against what he described as very serious criminal allegations related to his past. In a video shared on social media Friday, the actor, comedian and author preemptively denied claims he said he received in a letter and an email from mainstream media TV company and newspaper. Brand did not identify the organizations by name, but said the communications listed a litany of extremely egregious and aggressive attacks. Amidst this litany of astonishing, rather baroque attacks, are some very serious allegations that I absolutely refute, Brand said in his video. On Saturday, British outlets The Sunday Times, The Times and Channel 4 Dispatches published a joint investigation in which four women alleged Brand sexually assaulted them in separate instances between the years 2006 and 2013. One of the women said she was 16 and Brand was 31 at the time of the alleged assault in London. The women chose not to be identified by name in the report, according to the The Times. CNN has not been able to independently verify their claims. The literary agency Tavistock Wood, who had been listed as Brands representative, told CNN on Saturday that Brand categorically and vehemently denied the allegation made in 2020, but we now believe we were horribly misled by him. TW has terminated all professional ties to Brand. At least two of the alleged assaults took place in Los Angeles. One woman was treated at a rape treatment center the same day as the alleged assault, according to the report. Police were contacted by the center, the story stated, but the woman chose not to file a report because she didnt think my words would mean anything up against his, according to notes from the rape center the woman shared with The Times. These allegations pertain to the time when I was working in the mainstream, when I was in the newspapers all the time, when I was in the movies. And as Ive written about extensively in my books, I was very, very promiscuous, Brand said in his video. Now during that time of promiscuity, the relationships I had were absolutely, always consensual. Brand has written and spoken extensively about his past treatment for drug and sex addiction, along with mental health. He has built a digital platform around wellness in recent years. I was always transparent about that then almost too transparent. And Im being transparent about it now as well. And to see that transparency metastasized into something criminal, that I absolutely deny, makes me question is there another agenda at play? Brand added in his video. He alleged he was being attacked by the publications in an effort to control his voice. I dont mind them using my books and my stand-up to talk about my promiscuous, consensual conduct in the past, Brand said. What I seriously refute are these very, very, serious criminal allegations. This story was first published on CNN.com, "Russell Brand denies criminal allegations related to his promiscuous past" Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 17) The Supreme Court on Sunday announced it is planning to release the results of the 2023 Bar examinations before Christmas. "For the longest time, Bar examinees have had to endure several months of perceived agony of waiting before the results of the professional licensure exams for future lawyers are released," said SC Associate Justice Ramon Paul Hernando, chair of this year's Bar examinations. "The time spent by examinees waiting in agony for the results of the exams will be cut short. My team and I are eyeing the release of the results of the 2023 Bar examinations in early December before Christmas Day," he added. As of 12 p.m. Sunday, the SC logged a total of 10,404 examinees across 14 testing centers across the country. The next exam days will be on September 20 and 24. Hernando said the high court expected to welcome 10,791 Bar takers this year, of which more than 5,800 are first-timers. The Bar exams are divided into six core subjects: political and public international law, commercial and taxation laws, civil law, labor law and social legislation, criminal law, and remedial law, and legal and judicial ethics with practical exercises. The SC said 2,571 Bar personnel, including court officials, judges and volunteer lawyers, were deployed to the testing centers. Nearly 4,000 hopefuls hurdled the Bar exams last year. With reports from CNN Philippines' correspondent Crissy Dimatulac. Through the summer, public works crews worked with lifeguards to keep the beach access open in front of the Upper Township Beach Patrol headquarters on Williams Avenue in Strathmere, even as high tides would pull sand from the beach side. The lifeguards are off the beach for the summer in Strathmere, and visitors can no longer use that walkover. It was pretty much done this weekend, Township Committee member Curtis Corson said Monday. South Jersey dodged a direct hit from Hurricane Lee over the weekend, as the enormous storm passed well off the coast to make landfall in Canada at near-hurricane strength after washing New England with rain and wind. In New Jersey, the weather was fine, but on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, the storm pushed sizable swells toward the coast, leading beach patrols to keep bathers out of the water entirely Friday and Saturday. The rough ocean conditions and lack of lifeguards in some areas led to a bunch of rescues in the region. In Margate, a girl and her grandmother were rescued from the jetty. In North Wildwood, three swimmers were rescued from the ocean and taken to Cape Regional Medical Center. Wildwood's Beach Patrol issued warnings ahead of the storm passing about 700 miles off the coast, Capt. Ed Schneider said. Between the warnings and cold, windy air, the city's beaches saw minimal crowds over the weekend, he said. "We had pretty extreme wave height Friday and Saturday, along with strong rip currents and rough surf," Schneider said. Tropical storm or nor'easter moves up East Coast this weekend | Hurricane Hunt This weekend, Lee Weather Team Meteorologist Joe Martucci says a low pressure system will trek up the East Coast. Whether its a tropical storm or nor'easter is too soon to tell, though. Doug Bergen, Ocean Citys spokesperson, credited that call for a weekend with no water rescues. Some surfers fought their way into the overhead waves, getting dramatic rides, but most people headed warnings and kept their feet dry when the currents were at their strongest. But those powerful waves hit beaches with considerable force. Ocean City recently completed a beach replenishment project, with another project expected to build beaches in the islands south end this fall. Because of the shape of the island, the area around Fifth Street continues to be the most vulnerable. Fortunately, Ocean City beaches were relatively healthy before Lees arrival after the replenishment project at the north end earlier this year, Bergen said. As of Monday, staff at the Coastal Research Center at Stockton University had not yet checked the impact of the storm, but Kim McKenna, the interim executive director of the center, said they expect to see erosion along the coast. Just how much erosion is yet to be determined, but McKenna said there are hot spots that likely got hit the hardest. Those are typically in the north end of barrier islands, where the currents from the nearby inlets can scour shorelines. One of those hotspots is North Wildwood, where the city and the state Department of Environmental Protection have had a very public feud about beach projects and how best to protect property. North Wildwood Mayor Patrick Rosenello said Monday things have cooled down after the war of words and court filings that started the summer. We were at rock bottom around Memorial Day. Since then the cooperation has improved, he said. That includes working on getting permits for shore protection measures where his community has been hit hardest, from 13th to 15th avenues. Climate change could bring more monster storms like Hurricane Lee to New England Factors include warmer sea surface temperatures in these regions and the shifting and weakening of the jet streams. If that dune at 15th goes, theres literally nothing between the ocean and our Beach Patrol headquarters, Rosenello said. Lee brought some fresh erosion to that area, he said, but it was not as bad as it might have been. Still, he said, a badly eroded beach is not a good start for the winter storm season. While other towns have seen several federal sand pumping projects, North Wildwood has been asking for replenishment for years, and rebuilding its beach by trucking sand from Wildwood and Wildwood Crest. This year, the beach was too badly eroded to use that method before the start of the summer. A federal project could be underway by 2025, Rosenello said. In the meantime, he said, about the best North Wildwood can hope for would be ocean currents moving sand from Hereford Inlet onto the beach. Things are not so dire in Strathmere, but a huge amount of the north end has been washed away, with those Lee-powered waves slapping the stone bulkheads that have long been buried in sand. Its pretty rough, Corson said. He said the bids for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers beach project came in higher than expected, so the total project may cost more. This fall, the work is set to rebuild beaches in Strathmere and Sea Isle City as well as Ocean City. Upper Township has already approved more than $1 million for the local share of those costs, and may have to add money to that, Corson said. Strathmere resident Ted Kingston, who posted aerial images of the north end showing the extent of erosion before the storm, said Monday the seaside community is anxiously awaiting the next round of beach sand to be added by the Army Corps project. The north end doesnt look too good right now, he said. GALLERY: Big waves, courtesy of Hurricane Lee VINELAND A week after a suicide inside Inspira Medical Center Vineland, a local health union is renewing calls for stronger safety protocols for the hospital's staff. "This incident highlights the need for better violence prevention programs in our hospitals," said Debbie White, president of Health Professionals and Allied Employees Local 5131, which represents about 1,500 Inspira employees across the company's properties. About 500 to 600 of the union's employees work at Inspira's Vineland hospital, White said. Police are investigating how 57-year-old Michael Romanik Jr., a retired Millville police officer, armed himself inside the hospital before dying of a self-inflicted gunshot wound last Saturday morning. Officers responded to a call of a possible active shooter after 8 a.m., police Lt. Kevin Vai said Wednesday. Police did not engage Romanik before he sustained his fatal wound, Vai said, adding the former police officer did not threaten others beforehand. However, the matter could have been more grave, White said. "When we see a situation like this, there's no way we can call that a safe (working) environment, so what we have to do is challenge the fact that this environment wasn't safe, and we need to review it, and we need to figure what went wrong and how to make things better," White said. Since the weekend emergency, Inspira has offered free, confidential counseling to employees. Vineland hospital patient who died by suicide was former Millville police officer: Report A Vineland hospital lockdown last week was caused by a patient who suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound, officials said. "We wish to reiterate that every effort to protect our patients and staff is an abiding, constant priority," the company said in a statement Wednesday. "We are grateful for the rapid and compassionate response of our nursing staff, other critical responders, and a coordinated effort to maintain care for patients during a tragic event." Romanik left the force in 2010, according to state pension records. Millville police have not returned requests for comment. The incident incited a hospital-wide lockdown until police deemed the scene safe. Romanik entered the hospital several days before for medical care prior to his suicide, Vai said. How he obtained the gun remains under investigation. Vai could not say in which section of the hospital the suicide happened. Inspira administrators on Saturday said the incident was isolated within the hospital. No one else was injured. White said the union intends to challenge current safety practices through a grievance against Inspira. Union leaders hope the move could reignite discussions about improving safety, White said. In the last bargaining agreement, Inspira did not agree to implement requests by the union to install on-site metal detectors, White said. The union also represents workers at Camden's Cooper University Medical Center, which has those devices on hand, White said. Vineland police investigating lockdown at Inspira Medical Center Vineland police are investigating what they called an isolated incident at Inspira Medical Center that caused the hospital to go into lockdown Saturday. Violence in health care settings has been studied progressively more since the early 2000s, White said. Between 2002 and 2013, 21% of registered nurses and nursing students reported being physically assaulted on the job, according to a study by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. About 12% of emergency department nurses experience physical violence, the study said. OSHA defines workplace violence as any "act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the work site." In 2010, Bureau of Labor Statistics data found health care and social assistance workers were the victims of about 11,370 assaults, a more than 13% increase over the number of those encounters reported in 2009. White fears suicide and other forms of workplace violence could spawn an exodus of health care workers at a time when they're desperately needed. "Hospitals can choose to get metal detectors," White said. "They (Inspira) are choosing not to at this point in time. Why are they not choosing to? I can't answer for them." MARGATE A child and her grandmother were rescued from a rough ocean Saturday after they both were trapped on a beach jetty, police said. Police pulled the 12-year-old girl and 58-year-old woman, both of whom are from East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, from the jetty near Wilson Avenue at 4:36 p.m., police said in a news release. Both were treated by firefighters and released, police said. Multiple 911 calls reported the girl and woman in distress. A nearby police officer on the beach responding to a separate call immediately entered the water. Another officer reached the scene on an ATV within minutes, police said. The pair were hanging onto a jetty, police said. The officers rescued both while battling rough surf and rip currents. The rescue happened while Hurricane Lee was passing the U.S. to the east, churning the seas and making the ocean dangerous for swimmers. The wave period, the time it takes for two waves to pass one point, was near 13 seconds. Wave periods of 10 or more seconds indicate powerful waves. Furthermore, surf heights were roughly four to five feet. Conditions were tempting to go into the water. High temperatures were in the upper 70s, with ocean water temperatures in the 70s as well. The city's beaches are unprotected at this time of year and shouldn't be used for bathing, police said. Press Meteorologist Joe Martucci contributed to this report. A series of traffic advisories will be in place in Egg Harbor and Hamilton townships starting Monday, officials said. On Monday in EHT, delays are expected for English Creek Avenue between High School Drive and West Jersey Avenue from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. Tuesday, for mobile RPM installiation. On Tuesday and Wednesday, a single-lane, alternating traffic pattern will be in effect on English Creek Avenue between High School Drive and Dogwood Avenue, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for asphalt driveway installation. Meanwhile, replacement of the Lakes Creek Bridge will cause a full detour for about three months beginning Monday. A full detour will be in effect on Bevis Mill Road between School House Lane and Robert Best Road for reconstruction and replacement of the bridge. Local residents and businesses will have access to their properties, officials said in a news release. Police will be available to assist. Motorists are advised to follow the posted detour and exercise caution. Hamilton Township On Monday through Friday, a single-lane, alternating traffic pattern will remain in effect 24 hours a day on Weymouth Road near mile post 17.3 for county drainage improvements. Delays are expected. Motorists should reduce speeds and use caution when traveling through the work zone, or should seek an alternate route. For more information, go to aclink.org. In an effort to minimise inconvenience to the public during the upcoming Ganeshostav festival, officials from the Pune Metro (Maha Metro) have announced their decision to limit construction activities to barricaded areas in the central parts of the city. These central zones are well-known for witnessing a surge in footfall during the festive season, making this move a proactive measure to ensure a smoother festival experience for all. The decision comes after a request from local Ganesh mandals, who urged both Maha Metro and the civic administration to temporarily suspend construction activities during the festival. Responding to this appeal, Maha Metro officials have confirmed their commitment to the cause by cordoning off all work sites to facilitate the seamless movement of essential resources and devotees. However, it is essential to note that due to restrictions on the movement of vehicles, machinery, and workers within the barricaded areas, construction work will proceed at a reduced pace during this period. This measured approach is aimed at maintaining the safety of both workers and festival-goers. To ensure coordination and communication, Maha Metro will maintain constant contact with traffic police, Ganesh mandals, and other relevant authorities. Additionally, extra wardens will be deployed in areas such as Mandai, Kasba Peth, Shivajinagar, Swargate, Yerawada, and Nagar Road, where ongoing Metro construction projects are taking place. Among these, the construction of an underground station at Mandai represents a major project currently in progress. At Kasba Peth, work on entry-exit points is underway, while the Swargate station project has reached an advanced stage. In a recent development, Maha Metro removed barricades from a stretch of road in front of Mandai last month, providing relief to commuters and streamlining traffic flow. The workers associated with Ganesh Mandals have voiced their support for development projects but emphasized the need to reschedule construction activities, given the massive influx of devotees during the festival. In light of these arrangements, Maha Metro has issued an advisory to commuters. The advisory permits the transportation of small idols up to 2 feet in height inside the Metro. Commuters are also urged to adhere to station and train etiquette, refraining from defacing the facilities or carriages. Furthermore, passengers are kindly requested not to carry loudspeakers, megaphones, or fireworks during their travels. Tickets for Metro rides can be conveniently purchased at designated locations. As Pune gears up to celebrate the revered Ganeshostav festival, Maha Metro's commitment to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all demonstrates its dedication to balancing development with the cultural traditions and festivities that define the city. Michelle Thompson, planetary scientist and expert in space weathering, is one of the first six humans and the first woman to analyze samples of asteroid Bennu brought to Earth by OSIRIS-REx. (Purdue University photo/Rebecca Robinos) Tiger team of 6 scientists has 72 hours to get first look at samples from Bennu WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. To study the planets, someone has to go there: Either a human or a bot launches into space to physically explore other worlds. Scientists who study extraterrestrial materials cant usually bring their work home. Thats exactly whats happened this month, though, as NASAs OSIRIS-REx project brought home pieces of the asteroid Bennu. Additional Information The culmination of more than a decade of work by a team of thousands, samples of the asteroid landed Sept. 24 in the Utah desert and were whisked off to a clean lab at NASAs Johnson Space Center in Houston. There, Michelle Thompson, associate professor of earth, atmospheric, and planetary sciences in Purdues College of Science, is one of the first six lead investigators from the science team and the first woman to study the samples. To protect the sample from contaminants, only the six scientists, clad in bunny suits, gloves, hoods, shoe covers and hair covers, are allowed in the room with the sample. This is a truly once-in-a-lifetime maybe a once-in-several-lifetimes experience, Thompson said. OSIRIS-REx was selected in 2011, the year I started my PhD, and launched in 2016, the year I got my PhD. It reached Bennu in 2018, the year I came to Purdue. And now I am going to be one of the first humans to get to study it. Bennu is a treasure trove of information; this is literally the project of my career. Two other missions, Hayabusa and Hayabusa2, both launched by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, have brought asteroid samples back to Earth. However, each of those missions returned much smaller amounts of sample material. Hayabusa brought back less than a milligram approximately the weight of a single grain of granulated sugar from the asteroid Itokawa. Hayabusa2 brought back 5.4 grams of material about the weight of a nickel from the asteroid Ryugu. Scientists arent yet sure exactly how much material OSIRIS-REx has brought back, but its collection cannister appeared to be packed. The missions goal was to return 60 grams of sample. However, from camera observations, there may be more than 100 grams of material: about the weight of a stick of butter or a baby panda. The entire 100-pound capsule was shipped to the cleanroom lab; Thompson and her teammates will open it and measure what they find there. Whats inside will be enough to keep hundreds of scientists busy for the length of their careers. But, along with five other colleagues, NASA selected Thompson to be one of the scientists to get the first look: They have 72 hours to analyze the samples to inform the science team and the public of their initial characterization. Hows the weather, whether or not were together Thompson is an expert in how asteroids, moons and other planetary bodies react with space a process called space weathering. Understanding the surface, the very top few millimeters of rock and dust, called regolith, will shed light on the composition of asteroids and how their properties change and reflect their makeup. She has previously studied samples of moondust brought to Earth by the Apollo missions and has spent months at Johnson Space Center preparing for the asteroid samples arrival. OSIRIS-RExs name, which stands for Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification and Security Regolith Explorer, encapsulates the programs goal. Results will help give scientists insight into the origin of the planets and the earliest history of our solar system. Studying an asteroids surface chemistry and how it compares to measurements and observations astronomers can make from Earth or orbital spacecraft will help scientists better understand how to interpret what they see. Observing asteroids from spacecraft and telescopes is incredibly important, but nothing can replace analyzing samples in the laboratory, Thompson said. Sample return missions are a cornerstone of planetary science, and this close-up look at Bennu material will give us details we couldnt see from orbit and help us understand how to interpret what were seeing on other faraway asteroids. It makes our understanding more comprehensive, more three-dimensional. Other motivations include understanding what asteroids are made of to help future humans and explorers find whatever they might need to mine for future vehicles, missions and habitats. Scientists also hope to gain more understanding of asteroids physical chemistry and how its orbit is changing with time, particularly of asteroids like Bennu that come close to Earth and even have a chance, however minuscule, of impacting Earth. Asteroids are relics of the early solar system, Thompson said. Theyre like time capsules. We can use them to examine the origin of our solar system and to open a window to the origin of life on Earth. Bennu is a carbonaceous asteroid, which means that the element carbon a fundamental building block of life makes up a part of its composition. Like charcoal, a common carbonaceous material, many of these asteroids are dark and difficult to spot and see well in their entirety. Almost three-quarters of all asteroids are carbonaceous, so information gleaned from Bennu is likely to be applicable to many other asteroids in the solar system. Asteroid Prime Delivery Of course, pieces of asteroids can fall to Earth on their own. Its just that when they do, they dont get here unscathed. Screaming through the friction of Earths atmosphere is a violent process, and not many rocks make it to the surface intact. If they do land in one piece, they can be altered and contaminated by the atmosphere and their surroundings on Earth. Escorting the rock down, gently and insulated in still-pristine condition, using human innovation, means that scientists will get to look at the asteroid as it was in its original environment, lending understanding to a wide range of planetary science. These samples have been on their way back to us for a couple of years, Thompson said. We have had years to prepare for what we might find and how we might study the sample. Thompsons expertise in the equipment and protocols of studying the chemistry of very small particles and rock samples gives her an edge in figuring out what elements and compounds make up Bennus surface and how that structure might have changed over the history of the solar system. Earth and other large planets have volcanoes or plate tectonics that have shaped and reshaped their surfaces over the history of our solar system. Asteroids like Bennu have experienced minimal alteration since their formation over 4.5 billion years ago. Analyzing their composition gives scientists hints to what materials might have been present as the solar system and all the planets formed and as life began to move on the surface of Earth itself. Looking at the organic molecules from Bennu, were going to get an understanding of what kinds of molecules could have seeded life on early Earth, Thompson said. Information about what compounds, what elements are there, and in what proportions. We wont find life itself, but were definitely looking at the building blocks that could have eventually evolved into life. About Purdue University Purdue University is a public research institution with excellence at scale. Ranked among top 10 public universities and with two colleges in the top 4 in the United States, Purdue discovers and disseminates knowledge with a quality and at a scale second to none. More than 105,000 students study at Purdue across modalities and locations, with 50,000 in person on the West Lafayette campus. Committed to affordability and accessibility, Purdues main campus has frozen tuition 12 years in a row. See how Purdue never stops in the persistent pursuit of the next giant leap, including its first comprehensive urban campus in Indianapolis, the new Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business, and Purdue Computes, at https://www.purdue.edu/president/strategic-initiatives . Writer/Media contact: Brittany Steff, bsteff@purdue.edu Source: Michelle Thompson, mthompson@purdue.edu DES MOINES Nikki Haley shared how her faith sustained her after the 2015 shooting deaths of nine Black Americans by a white supremacist shooter. Ron DeSantis said his faith enabled him to weather the slings and arrows that he said came his way after backlash to policies he enacted as Floridas governor. And Tim Scott confirmed that he is dating someone a lovely Christian girl, he said adding that he is thankful that God has guided him in a way that has allowed his life to intersect at the right time with the right person. Faith was a prominent topic as were anti-abortion policies and the protection of religion freedom on Saturday night in downtown Des Moines during a fundraising event that featured 10 of the Republican candidates for president and was hosted by the Iowa Faith and Freedom Coalition, the state chapter of a national Christian conservative organization. Roughly 1,200 people attended Saturday nights fundraiser, according to event organizers, giving those candidates yet another opportunity to address a large swath of evangelical voters one of the strongest voting blocs within the Republican Party in Iowa. The lone prominent candidate missing from Saturday nights event was former President Donald Trump, who also happens to be the front-runner at this stage of the Republican presidential primary. Each of the candidates was interviewed by either Ralph Reed, founder and chairman of the national Faith & Freedom Coalition, or Republican Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird. One recurring question for the candidates was how faith has informed their public service. Haley, for example, was asked how her faith sustained her through the aftermath of the shooting at Charlestons Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in 2015, when she was South Carolinas governor. During that time, the Confederate flag was removed from the South Carolina statehouse grounds and placed in a museum. Haley said her focus as governor was to prevent the state from becoming divided over the Confederate flag, and to prevent public riots. She also talked about attending the funerals of the shooting victims, and how she was eventually diagnosed with PTSD. I was deeply affected by it, Haley said. I remember one day getting on my knees and saying, God, I cant do this by myself. I need you. And the strength and grace that he showed me, I will tell you, was a defining moment in my life. Because it was the only way that I was able to pull through and get through it. DeSantis said his faith has enabled him to weather the storms that come when enacting policies that lead to some backlash. He singled out Floridas moves to reopen businesses earlier than other states during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, LGBTQ-related public school policies, and his legal tussles with Disney. People sometimes ask me what does it take to be an effective leader, and to me, I would say first put on the full armor of God. Then you can be an effective leader when you do that, DeSantis said, adding that he believes the power of prayer helped lift his wife Caseys spirits during her bout with breast cancer. Iowa Republicans still weighing their options Trump has been the consistent and dominant leader in polling on the Republican presidential primary this year, both nationally and in Iowa. Trump leads the rest of the field by 44 percentage points in Real Clear Politics rolling average of national polls, and while that lead is smaller in Iowa, he led DeSantis by 23 points in an August Des Moines Register/NBC News/Mediacom Iowa Poll, and by 37 points in a September Iowa State/Civiqs poll. However, conversations with Iowans who attended Saturdays event served as a reminder that while the polling has been consistent, many Iowa Republicans minds remain unsettled four months out from the Jan. 15, first-in-the-nation Iowa Republican caucuses. Phil and Pat Hetrick, a husband and wife from Atlantic in western Iowa, both said they are primarily considering three candidates: Donald Trump, Vivek Ramaswamy and Tim Scott. Both Hetricks expressed frustration with but also concern about the legal issues facing Trump. National Democrats deployed a mobile billboard in Des Moines that labeled the Republican presidential candidates as all having extreme MAGA agendas, referring to Trumps campaign slogan. The billboard highlighted issues like abortion, Social Security and Medicare, and tax policy for wealthy Americans and businesses. Iowa Democratic Party Chairwoman Rita Hart took a similar messaging approach in a statement the party issued ahead of Saturday nights event; she also used the MAGA label and highlighted abortion policy. The MAGA Republicans gathering in Des Moines (Saturday) have signed or voiced support for some of the most cruel, anti-choice legislation our country has ever seen, Hart said in the statement. Its abundantly clear that if they got the chance, many of them would sign the most restrictive abortion bans they could and strip away the rights of millions of women across this country. They are all wildly out of step with Iowa women who overwhelmingly want and deserve the right to make decisions about their own bodies. PHOTOS: Presidential hopeful Ron DeSantis campaigns in Salix Ron DeSantis Salix campaign Ron DeSantis Salix campaign Ron DeSantis Salix campaign Ron DeSantis Salix campaign Ron DeSantis Salix campaign Ron DeSantis Salix campaign Ron DeSantis Salix campaign Ron DeSantis Salix campaign Ron DeSantis Salix campaign Ron DeSantis Salix campaign Fruitful China-Italy cooperation presents bright prospect Xinhua) 14:08, September 18, 2023 ROME, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- China and Italy have maintained high-level growth of relations with fruitful cooperation in various fields, which has earned broad recognition, a former Italian official has said. Bilateral ties, especially in the economic and trade fields, have made a "leap forward," Vito Petrocelli, former Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Italian Senate, told Xinhua, describing the two economies as highly complementary, and the interests of Italian companies as closely linked to the Chinese market. Petrocelli said that cooperation between the two countries in the economic, cultural, political, and social fields has become a "benchmark" within the European Union, attesting to the need to develop a comprehensive strategic partnership between the two sides. Data from China's General Administration of Customs show that two-way trade has hit new highs for three consecutive years, amounting to 77.884 billion U.S. dollars in 2022, up 5.4 percent year on year. In the first five months of this year, Italy's exports to China increased by 58 percent, according to the Italian National Institute of Statistics. The first large cruise ship jointly built by the two countries was successfully commissioned, and the total value of the six jointly-built cruise ships was worth nearly 5 billion dollars. STMicroelectronics, a technology company of French-Italian origin, and Chinese companies jointly invested 3.2 billion dollars to build factories in China. Italy has become one of the most popular destinations for Chinese tourists to visit in Europe, and many Italian cultural and artistic exhibitions, including paintings and operas, attracted a large Chinese audience. The number of Chinese students in Italy continues to grow and currently stands at 29,000, while there are around 6,000 Italian students in China. Marco Tronchetti Provera, executive vice president of Italian tire manufacturer Pirelli, said that the company's high-end product business in China has been growing steadily, and by cooperating with Chinese companies, Pirelli has increased its competitiveness and global popularity. Pirelli opened its first factory in China in 2005 and currently has nearly 4,000 retail outlets in the country. According to a survey conducted by the Italy China Council Foundation, 84 percent of Italian enterprises are positive about the economic and trade relations between China and Italy and their development prospects. Italy has been invited to participate in various exhibitions in China and was the guest of honor at both the expos in Shanghai and in Hainan, through which high-quality Italian products have entered thousands of Chinese households. Altagamma, an Italian foundation of luxury brands, attends the consumer expo in Hainan this year with 75 of its high-end brands, including Gucci, Maserati, Lamborghini, and Ducati. "The scale and growth of China's high-end consumer market are difficult to achieve in other countries," said Stefania Lazzaroni, general manager of Altagamma, adding that the Chinese market represents a unique opportunity and the foundation is willing to strengthen links and enhance presence in China which is relevant in the area. Illycaffe, one of Italy's best-known coffee brands, is betting big on the Chinese market over the next few years. "We have studied to determine which markets can become a second home market for us and the best option is China," said Illy's chief executive Cristina Scocchia. The company has an expansion strategy which it believes will enable it to double or triple its sales in China by 2026, outpacing the growth of the market as a whole. In northern China's harbor city of Tianjin, a bustling Italian SME Industrial Park has become a hub for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from Italy. Established in 2019, it has so far attracted more than 30 Italian SMEs. Patrizio Valsoni, general manager of CIMU Science, acknowledged the fast development in China and the changes in the market. "This provided opportunities for us. We will continue to invest in China in the future." Romano Prodi, former European Commission president and former Italian prime minister, said that China's economy plays a key role in Europe's economic recovery, and that Italy and China need to expand cooperation in various fields to make it more comprehensive and deeper. Michele Geraci, former undersecretary of state at the Italian Ministry of Economic Development, said that the modern Silk Road has more potential for the development of Italy-China relations, and some projects involving ports and transportation have become one of the basic pillars of many countries, which represents a potentially huge market for Italy. (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun) Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) The Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) will take place in Negros Oriental but the province would be placed under the poll body's control over security concerns, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) en banc announced on Monday. "Minarapat po ng Comelec na ituloy ito sapagkat base po sa nakalap namin napatunayan po namin na overwhelmingly na ang gusto ng mga kababayan natin doon ay tumuloy ang eleksyon sa October 30. Ganun din naman po ang PNP (Philippine National Police) at AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines)," Comelec Chairman George Garcia said in a briefing. [Translation: The Comelec thought it best to proceed because based on information we were able to prove that residents in the area overwhelmingly want elections to continue on October 30, together with the PNP and AFP.] The Comelec may place an area under its control if there is a history of intense political rivalry and violence. Once an area is under Comelec control, the poll body has full control and supervision over national and local officials, as well as law enforcement agencies. Garcia explained the provincial coverage of Comelec control. "Pwede naman magbago deklarasyon as we go on. Ang importante in the meantime buong probinsya ang buong declaration because of the fear na kung may threat dito may pangyayari, magsi-spillover," he said. [Translation: The decision could change as we go on. What's important for now is the declaration for the province because of the fear there could be a spill over in case of a threat.] Garcia assured people in the province there will be no disruption of government services, explaining that the move is meant to address worries about possible violence during elections in October. "Ang intensyon lang naman ay siguraduhin maayos yung pagcoconduct natin ng halalan. Ang importante normal ang buhay diyan, normal ang pamamahala diyan. Yung presensya kung meron man ng Armed Forces and the PNP will be minimal," he said. [Translation: Our intention is to ensure that elections are held peacefully. What's important is life remains normal. If there is the presence of the Armed Forces and the PNP, it will be minimal.] Negros Oriental has had several incidents of politics-related violence, including the assassination of Gov. Roel Degamo in March. The Comelec is also looking at other areas to be placed under its control. It is waiting for the recommendation of law enforcement in Libon, Albay and Malabang, Lanao del Sur, both of which encountered election-related violence. CNN Philippines' Lisbet Esmael and Paige Javier contributed to this report. DES MOINES Government agencies in Iowa could reject a persons open records requests if the agency and a state board deem the requests to be excessive under a proposal being considered by the state board. The Iowa Public Information Boards legislative committee during a telephonic meeting Friday discussed the proposal, which was introduced by the boards executive director Erika Eckley and would require approval by state lawmakers. The committee took no action other than to recommend discussion by the full board at its next meeting. Eckley said she proposed the legislation because of concerns raised by local government officials who have complained of excessive open records requests that Eckley described as abusive and harassing in nature. Under the proposed legislation, which the board would provide to state lawmakers for consideration, a governmental body in Iowa like a city, county or school board, for example could petition the board for relief from an individual who the government agency deems to be a vexatious requester. The Public Information Board then would determine the veracity of the agencys petition. It would consider multiple factors, including the number and scope of requests; the nature, content language or subject matter of communications to the government agency; or conduct that the government agency believes creates an unreasonable burden or is intended to harass the agency. The board then could deny the government agencys petition, or determine the petition could have merit and schedule a hearing to allow the alleged vexatious requester an opportunity to respond. If a hearing is held, the state board would then vote on the petition. If the board would vote to grant the petition, it could allow the government agency to reject the individuals open records requests for up to one year. The boards decision would be final, and could be appealed only through the courts. During Fridays legislative committee hearing, the members fielded questions from two members of the state media: Clark Kauffman of Iowa Capital Dispatch and Laura Belin of the liberal political news site Bleeding Heartland. Randy Evans, executive director of the Iowa Freedom of Information Council, a government transparency advocacy group, submitted a letter to the state board expressing concern for how the proposal would seriously erode the states open records law. He wrote that the proposed legislation would run counter to the law by excluding individuals from exercising their right to public records. What a government employee believes is a vexatious person or that the IPIB adjudicates as such may in fact involve someone others see as persistent, especially if they have a common interest in the same records and information, Evans wrote in the letter to the state board. The Iowa FOI Council is concerned this legislation would empower government to block requests for documents from individual requesters or their organizations based on the nature, content, language or subject matter of the requests. The nine-member Iowa Public Information Board is comprised of nine members, which must include three members each representing government, the media and the public. Eckley and two members of the boards three-person legislative committee public representative E.J. Giovannetti of Urbandale and government representative Barry Lindahl of Dubuque discussed the vexatious requester proposal during Fridays meeting. The legislative committees media representative, Joel McCrea, did not attend the meeting. Rapid City Police have arrested an Amsterdam, New York man after he allegedly stabbed a man to death near the 100 block of Omaha Street Friday. Police arrested 50-year-old Philip Chips Monday morning after investigating the homicide over the weekend and following an autopsy that determined the deceased man found Friday died of a stab wound to the torso. "An autopsy was performed in the investigation and determined the man had received a fatal stab wound to the torso," Rapid City Police wrote on Twitter Monday. "As police continued their investigation, several individuals familiar with the victim were interviewed." As the investigation continued, police identified Chips as the suspect and took him into custody for an interview. After the interview he was arrested and charged with second degree murder. "The investigation into the homicide remains active and ongoing," police wrote. Second degree murder is defined in South Dakota as, murder without a "premeditated design" to commit the murder. Second degree murder is a class B felony. If convicted, Chips faces a mandatory life sentence in prison and a $50,000 fine. The Rapid City Metropolitan Planning Organization, in conjunction with Pennington County, the City of Box Elder, and South Dakota Department of Transportation, will hold an open house and public meeting to discuss and receive public comments on the ongoing corridor study for Highway 14/16 and Radar Hill Road in Box Elder. The meeting will be held at the Box Elder Community Center, 420 Villa Drive, at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 19. The purpose of the public meeting is to present alternatives to improve operations and safety within the corridors and to receive public feedback on their viability or other alternatives that should be considered. Information will be available at the meeting documenting the existing and future conditions relative to the two corridors. Staff from Pennington County, Box Elder and their consultant will be available to discuss the corridor study. All persons interested in the corridor study are invited to attend the meeting to share their views and concerns. Public comments will be captured during the meeting. For those that cannot attend in person, information about the study and corridor concepts can be found online at bit.ly/1416radarhill. Written comments should be sent to Attn: Hwy 14/16 and Radar Hill Road Study, 330 Knollwood Drive, Rapid City, SD 57701, or by email to steve.grabill@kljeng.com. Written public comment will be accepted through Oct. 8. Notice is further given to individuals with disabilities that this public meeting is being held in a physically accessible place. Any individuals with disabilities who will require a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the public meeting should submit a request to the Highway Department at 605-394-2166 or 1-800-877-1113. Please request the accommodation no later than two business days prior to the meeting in order to ensure accommodations are available. South Dakota's premier literary event, the Festival of Books, celebrates literature in South Dakota and beyond by connecting the very best regional and national writers with our states readers for conversations, presentations, panel discussions, book signings, and special events. Through workshops and craft talks offered by established authors and publishing professionals, it provides unique support for aspiring writers to craft and share their stories. This year's events officially begin Friday, Sept. 22 in Deadwood, but several opportunities to meet and hear from authors will happen starting Wednesday. Wednesday night at the Dahl Arts Center in Rapid City is the festival preface, "Women Behaving Badly," with authors Katherine Center, Kelly Florence, Meg Hafdahl and Sarah Penner. Thursday, several authors will be on In the Moment with Lori Walsh on South Dakota Public Broadcasting, plus a panel at the Homestake Center and a ticketed authors reception at Deadwood Public Library. Dozens of presenters will host workshops and panels at various locations across Deadwood Friday and Saturday. For more information, including a detailed schedule of events and a link to buy tickets, visit sdhumanities.org. A full schedule of events can be found below: U.S. Senators Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) introduced two bipartisan pieces of legislation to protect rural and agricultural communities from cyberattacks targeting businesses, facilities and the U.S. food supply chain. The Cybersecurity for Rural Water Systems Act would address vulnerabilities in rural water systems by providing updated cyber defenses and technical assistance. Additionally, the Food and Agriculture Industry Cybersecurity Support Act would help farmers and ranchers prevent and respond to threats, including ransomware attacks. Our communities are the foundation of what makes South Dakota a great place to live, work and raise a family, Rounds said. It is crucial that people living in those communities can go about their daily lives without interruption. These two pieces of bipartisan legislation would help make certain water systems have adequate cyber protection and would provide farmers and ranchers with expanded access to cybersecurity resources. I am pleased to join Senator Cortez Masto to introduce these bills that would work to protect our communities across the state. Rounds is the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Cybersecurity. The Cybersecurity for Rural Water Systems Act would update and expand the Circuit Rider Program to assess the cybersecurity of small water and wastewater utilities, develop protocols to enhance cyber defenses and provide assistance to improve cyber protections. Currently, only 20% of water and wastewater systems across the U.S. have even basic levels of cyber protection. Representatives Zach Nunn (R-Iowa) and Don Davis (D-N.C.) have introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. This legislation is endorsed by the South Dakota Association of Rural Water Systems, National Rural Water Association and CyberSolarium 2.0. "South Dakota Association of Rural Water Systems wholeheartedly supports the Senate's legislative efforts to incorporate the 'Cybersecurity Circuit Rider' into the upcoming Farm Bill, recognizing the invaluable benefits it will provide to rural water systems in South Dakota, said Kurt Pfeifle, Executive Director of South Dakota Association of Rural Water Systems. We extend our deepest gratitude to Senator Rounds for his steadfast leadership in championing the needs of South Dakota and Rural America." The Food and Agriculture Industry Cybersecurity Support Act would create a specialized hub within the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to help agricultural producers secure technology, equipment and hardware to protect their operations. It would also create a hotline for industry-specific advice and best practices to adhere to cybersecurity issues. Representatives August Pfluger (R-Texas) and Marc Veasey (D-Texas) have introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. This legislation is endorsed by the National Cattlemens Beef Association and International Fresh Produce Association. Our national security includes food security, which is why it is so critical for federal authorities to strengthen protections against cyber-attacks in the agricultural sector, said National Cattlemens Beef Association Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. As cell phones and tablets become even more critical tools in the saddle bag, Congress is wise to strengthen our digital defenses now to prevent a future cyber-attack from endangering our nations food supply. A 28-year-old Rapid City man was sentenced Friday to 10 years in federal prison after he was arrested in August 2022 for explicit conversations with an undercover agent he thought was a 14-year-old girl. Brandon Prue was one of six local men arrested during a sting operation held during the 2022 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The sting is a routine effort by federal, state and local law enforcement and primarily pulls in local men. Prue pleaded guilty on May 5 to attempted enticement of a minor using the internet. The government dismissed remaining charges against him as part of the plea deal: attempted enticement of a minor using the internet, receipt of child pornography, possession of child pornography and transfer of obscene material to a person under 16. U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Viken sentenced Prue to the mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and five years of supervised release. He also ordered Prue pay a routine $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. The amount is required for every federal felony conviction. On Aug. 1, 2022, Prue who was on parole at the time after spending about one-and-a-half years in prison for a drug possession charge received a Facebook message from a 14-year-old girl named Stella that said, "Hey." "Stella" was actually Rapid City Police Detective Matthew Almeida. Throughout several days, Almeida and Prue messaged. At one point, Prue asked "Stella" for photos of herself. The detective sent Prue a photo of a female officer's face that had been modified to make her look younger. He replied that she was "perfect," but that he didn't want her to think he was "being weird by saying stuff like that." He also asked if the girl's family sees her messages before he asked for a "booty pic." He then sent the detective a photo of his genitalia and then discussed having sex with the minor. On Aug. 5, 2022, he arranged to meet up with Stella, who told him she was a virgin. Prue agreed to meet at the Horace Mann Swimming Pool on Anamosa Street in Rapid City. After walking from downtown Rapid City, he messaged and stated that there were "cops everywhere." Prue continued to walk in the area of the school and sent a picture of the back of the school, stating he was almost there but there were still cars in the parking lot. At that point, he was arrested. When he was arrested, he asked the officers if it was because of the messages. He also admitted he had just used methamphetamine. Law enforcement found about a gram of methamphetamine, about a gram of marijuana and two syringes on him. His phone was taken as evidence, and law enforcement found the chats on his phone along with child pornography. During an interview with Almeida the undercover detective Prue said he didn't intend to have sex with Stella, but wanted to see if she was a real person. Jennifer Albertson, Prue's appointed defense attorney, said she believed methamphetamine was the "driving force" behind her client's behavior. She said Prue's father is currently in federal prison and his mother "didn't care to be involved" in her son's life. She said the case shows "how completely out of control these drugs make you." "This probably saved him from himself," Albertson said. Prue's grandparents raised him and attended the hearing. His grandmother said, "he's a great boy." She said Prue worked and provided for his son, "...and then of course, the drugs." "This is an epidemic. This meth is an epidemic," she said. His grandfather said Prue got involved in the wrong group, and "we tried our best." Viken told Prue would be in his thirties when he gets out and can still make a life for himself. Prue is held at the Pennington County Jail awaiting transport to a federal prison. Dwayne Lasas, a fluent Cree speaker, described learning his language as kind of like damage control. Lasas grew up in Saskatchewan in Cree territory, and his mother attended a residential school in Canada. She got the language taken away from her, Lasas said. It was slapped out of my mother. She really had it rough. Lasas said trauma from residential school affected his mother long after she left. Her knees constantly ached from kneeling on cement at school, and because she struggled with alcoholism, Lasas grandparents raised him. They only spoke Cree, Lasas recalled. Cree was my first language. Before I could walk, I was speaking Cree. Now 57 years old, Lasas is one of few fluent Cree speakers. The language, like many Indigenous languages, has become endangered a consequence of boarding and residential schools in the U.S. and Canada and a Canadian government policy now called the Sixties Scoop, where Native children in Canada were separated from their families and put into the child welfare system. Our children were taken away from us for bogus reasons, Lasas said. And now a lot of them are coming back trying to find their roots. That search becomes a lot easier when they learn our language. Our language is our connection. Its spiritual, and its timeliness. From the 1800s to the 1970s, many Native children were forced to attend government-funded Christian boarding schools, where they were emotionally, physically and sexually abused. The explicit mission of these schools was cultural genocide, and tribes have suffered language and culture loss as a result. The Montana Budget and Policy Center in 2018 reported that of the more than 300 tribal languages once spoken in the U.S., 175 remain. The Rocky Boy Reservation is home to 3,770 people of the Cree and Chippewa tribes, and experts estimate about 25 residents speak Cree as their first language. According to Lasas, revitalizing the language is more important now than ever. Its one of the reasons why he is conducting a seminar on Sept. 21 from noon to 2 p.m. at Montana State University Northerns Student Union Building in Havre. Lasas said his seminar is particularly unique as he will speak to the value of the Cree language by drawing connections to mathematics, music and the land. With a background in mathematics, Lasas said the concept of proof is vital to his presentation. He proves to audiences that the Cree language is timeless by drawing comparisons to other old languages. The word for Earth in Sumerian, for example, is Ki, and Earth in Cree is similar, Aski. Lasas demonstrates that language is intertwined with identity through the Cree word pimatisowin, which means life. Pim, according to Lasas, represents movement. Pimohte means to walk, and pimpacimo means to crawl. At, Lasas said, is the beginning of the Cree word for spirit, and isowin refers to energy. So the loose translation for life means movement of spirit energy, he explained. Its a whole new understanding of the word. If you look at it that way, you can see that the words we use are very important. We use them in ceremony, and they are critical to our survival. Lasas said he uses proof in his presentations because we need allies. To be able to save these languages, we need help, he said. I want people to realize there is something very special about these languages and realize that they need to be saved. Alissa Cook, project director at Little River Institute at Northern, said its important for both students and faculty to learn about Indigenous languages and cultures. For some of our faculty, this (event) gives them a chance to learn a bit more about teaching perspectives and gives them a chance to learn about Indigenous cultures, and for students, its a chance to participate in an experience that for some of them, may be the first time theyve ever heard Cree, she said. Its a good way to start the semester. To RSVP for Dwayne Lasas Cree language seminar, contact the Little River Institute at Alissa.Cook@msun.edu or call 406-945-9221. Washington DC, USA, September 18, 2023: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, who is currently in New York, USA to attend the 78th United Nations General Assembly, held a meeting with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres in the UN Headquarters on Sunday. During the meeting, the duo discussed on ranges of issues including the issues related to the ongoing peace process of Nepal, climate change, Sustainable Development Goals, peacekeeping, Least Developed Countries and development financing. Beato Hernandez has slowly built a small empire of Hispanic stores in the Richmond area that sell groceries, goods and hot foods, such as pork, grilled chicken, jalapenos and yucca. Having immigrated to the Richmond area from the Mexican state of Guerrero at 15 years old, hes grown his business alongside the blossoming Latino community thats become a fixture of the region. Now, a little less than a decade after starting his first business from a food truck in 2012, Hernandez is ready for the next step: a local manufacturing operation capable of churning out 12,000 tortillas per hour. A factory and store, Tortilleria Mixteca, is the fifth and flagship location for his business, which has four stores in the Richmond area and one in Fredericksburg. The factory is the first large-scale piece of the company, which he hopes will go coast-to-coast one day, selling authentic tortillas made using the nixtamal technique to stores and big-box food sellers. The factory had a grand opening in late August and has about a dozen employees. The nixtamal technique dates back to the Aztec empire in the mountains of southern Mexico around 1200 to 1500 B.C. Its a traditional way of making tortillas, but its a longer process, Hernandez said through a translator. Other people use a flour thats already premixed, adding only water. This has a whole process in how the corn is softened and then soaked before being milled and put with other ingredients. Businesses like this are transformational The tortilleria at 5172 Nine Mile Road in Henrico County is similar to Hernandezs other locations with foods prepared from a kitchen and a store selling Latino goods and foods in the front. However, its backroom houses the factory machines where he will be producing tortillas for sale in the Richmond area. He took about eight months to take the site from next to nothing, except for a few windows and the walls, to a complete operation. Tortilla manufacturing will begin in the coming weeks. At first, Hernandez wants to create a strong base of sales in Virginia before expanding into other states. Hernandez is Mixtecan, an Indigenous community of people within the southern mountainous region of Mexico. There, he worked at a small store with his parents where they had only one shelf. That was the start of his entrepreneurial education. Its a small community that is underprivileged. We dont have access to good health care or education. There are schools, but only elementary schools; there are no middle or high schools, Hernandez said. If you want to study, you have to leave the city. I knew I couldnt do more, so I wanted to come here where I had more opportunity. He lived with his 19-year-old brother who had come over a few years before him. At first, he attended Hermitage High School for about six months before leaving to work in a warehouse to earn money for his family. In 2012, he started a food truck selling American favorites, such as hot dogs and hamburgers. He said the idea at first was just to get started making money before eventually shifting to Latino dishes. Hernandezs first business, a store called Tortilleria Azteca, opened in 2014 on Hull Street Road. From there, things steadily grew, with Hernandez opening two restaurants before expanding into Fredericksburg, which has been his most successful location to date. I loved the historical stories (about Fredericksburg), like that Washington lived there, and I was always interested in that city and visiting it, Hernandez said. I saw that there wasnt any Latino markets or stores or tortillerias, so I thought I would make one there. The goal now, he says, is for the Henrico location to be his biggest and bestselling spot in the bunch. When starting out, Hernandez enlisted the help of the Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to get advice from the areas bilingual business center. Michel Zajur, founder and CEO of the chamber, explained that Latino foods are not only for immigrants, but also for all Americans. Tortillas, salsa and other food even culture of the Latino community has become more mainstream now, Zajur said. People like to experience different things, and I think businesses like this are transformational for the Richmond community. Zajur first came to Richmond in the 1960s when his family started the first authentic Mexican restaurant in the region, La Siesta, at 9900 Midlothian Turnpike. It lasted for more than 30 years and was a pillar for the areas small Hispanic community at the time. Then, the community grew. Helping Richmond and back home Richmond is sort of unique. In many places, Hispanic communities grew out of one area, but in Richmond, it was more sporadic throughout the area, Zajur said. A lot of times, its grown around churches. Chesterfield is also the fifth-largest hub of Latinos in the state of Virginia. He notes that Hernandez, as a Mixtecan, is part of a specific community within the larger Mexican nationality. Theres a sizable Mixtecan community here in Richmond. Years ago, we even brought a Mexican consulate here, because he didnt realize there existed a community like this, Zajur said. They dont necessarily speak Spanish; its an Indigenous language. Hernandez has become a leader within his community due to the success and visibility of his businesses in the area. We are Mixtecan. In the mountains of Guerrero, we dont have much. The government doesnt really take care of us back home in Mexico, and everything that we have is because we built it ourselves, Hernandez said. There is a lot of discrimination against the Indigenous community in Mexico, and that motivates me to send a message to people to say that you can do it; you can become someone. He has already helped two of his fellow Mixtecan immigrants start their own tortillerias in Manassas and Alabama. One is called Tortilleria Sol de Dia; the other is Tortilleria Guerrero. I want to help both in Richmond and back home. I want to share my experience and knowledge to inspire the Indigenous community and Latinos in general to create their own businesses, Hernandez said. I feel really good, and I feel satisfied, but I want to do more for the community. Richmond-area business expansions, openings and closings Wawa R3 Screening Services Salty Paws 88 Street Food Rams House Bar + Kitchen Revel Market & Bar Stanley's Popshelf The Veil Brewing Co.'s new taproom P.T. Hastings Seafood Genovas Pizza Station & Take Out Kitchen Eggs Up Grill Killa Dillas Luxe New American Bar & Grill RICH Nail Lounge Sycamore Jewelers, Midlothian Mi Casita Restaurant Wok This Way Mayu Sushi & Thai Maxs on Broad Ironclad Coffee Grit Coffee Rockler Woodworking and Hardware Boiling Crab Richmond Blue Cow Ice Cream Co. Suzy Sno Diablo Doughnuts RVA The Brass Tap Graybo's Sports Cards Blue Ridge Cyclery BigWife's Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams Acacia Midtown Zoom Room Richmond Torchy's Tacos Planet Fitness Raising Canes Chicken Fingers Three Notch'd Brewing Retail or Resell Marshalls Raising Cane's My Favorite Muffin Mattress King Anthony's on the Hill The Mill on MacArthur Retiring Del. Rob Bell, R-Albemarle, is joining the Office of the Attorney General. Starting Monday, he is deputy attorney general for Health, Education, and Social Services. Bell, first elected to the General Assembly in 2001 after working as a prosecutor in Orange County, later became the chair of the Courts of Justice Committee, reviewing bills related to courts and crime. He also served on other committees, applying and gaining knowledge he said he will bring to his new role. As delegate, I had the chance to learn about a wide variety of legal and policy issues while serving on the Education Committee, the Health, Welfare and Institutions Committee and the Behavioral Health Commission, Bell said in a release. I am excited to bring this knowledge into a new public service role. During his time in the legislature, Bell was involved in numerous bills becoming law, including measures to address mental health, school safety, college sexual assault, protective orders and rules for Virginians with special needs. In 2013, Bell sought the GOP nomination for attorney general, but lost in a convention to Sen. Mark Obenshain, R-Rockingham. Now, he will be able to work within the office. Bells resignation will not trigger a special election, as the General Assembly has concluded voting matters for this year with the recent passage of the state budget. Bell first announced he would not seek reelection earlier this year when numerous other legislators announced their forthcoming retirements. In redistricting, a process that happens every decade to account for population changes, a number of lawmakers were drawn into new districts or paired in districts with fellow incumbents prompting some to seek reelection and others to step aside. I have known Rob from our work together in the General Assembly, especially on the Courts of Justice Committee, Attorney General Jason Miyares said in a statement. I have a deep respect for his work ethic, intellect and knowledge of Virginia laws. I have confidence that he will work vigorously for the citizens of the Commonwealth. From the Archives: The construction of the Richmond Convention Center Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) Former National Irrigation Administration (NIA) acting administrator Benny Antiporda has been slapped with a one-year suspension without pay after the Office of the Ombudsman found him guilty of harassment and oppression. In a decision dated Sept. 11, the order stated that Antipordas acts failed to live up to the high standards required of a government employee. The complaint stemmed from Antipordas actions towards one of his staff, which included the posting of a security detail, turning off the electricity in the complainants office, violating the flexi-time arrangement, and locking down the office without prior notice, among others. The Office of the Ombudsman said they demonstrate cruelty, severity, unlawful exaction, domination, or excessive use of authority which are tantamount to harassment and oppression. Government employees are supposed to be well-mannered, civil and considerate in their actuations, not only in their relations with the transacting public, but also with their co-workers, it added. The Office of the Ombudsman explained that these do not constitute grave misconduct as issues of corruption and clear intent to violate the law or rule were absent in this case. It said that if Antiporda is already separated from the service, he should settle a penalty equivalent to his salary for one year in NIA. Complaints of grave misconduct and ignorance of the law against Antiporda, meanwhile, were dismissed. It was "stein time." It matters not what beer one picked, what sausage one ate, or how the lederhosen fits today. What matters is how long one can hold two, filled beer steins arms outstretched like an albatross as sweat pools on the forehead and a crowd looks on. To the last person standing go the spoils. And according to an Oktoberfest photo posted on Facebook, the spoils on Saturday night went to Kendall Spain, who held his steins for nearly 9 minutes; and to Brenda Schmeider, who won in the women's category with a time of 4:44. Welcome back to St. Benedict Oktoberfest, the Museum District's annual festival that stakes its individuality on time-honored Germanic traditions.Competitive and cultural events like the stein-holding contest are a hallmark of the festival that celebrates Richmond's German Catholic community. This year's festival ran from Friday through Sunday evening. This was its 18th iteration, having kicked off in September 2005. The festival skipped one year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Festival organizer Ruppert Beirne, a 58-year-old personal injury lawyer, initially pitched a local Oktoberfest to parishioners of Saint Benedict Catholic Church in 1999. Initially, he did not find support for the idea. It was only in 2005, when the Roman Catholic Diocese took over the Benedictine parish, that a new priest took the reins. The priest was willing to take a chance on Beirne's Oktoberfest. "Just don't lose money," the parish's financial council said after warily approving the idea. Beirne said the festival just barely scraped by in 2005, turning a tiny profit that was enough to renew the festival for a second year. The money helped finance one $1,000 scholarship for a student from the parish to attend a local Catholic high school. "I remember we had a trickle of people coming in. We would get excited over a group of 30 people," Beirne said. In the 18 years since, that trickle has grown into a full-throttled stream. Last year, the festival clocked over 60,000 attendees across three days. On Sunday morning, Beirne said the event had likely beaten that tally this year. Festival-goers came for chicken dances, live German bands and traditional German bratwurst. They entered bare-headed and left in Bavarian feathered fedoras. The event cordoned off two blocks between Stuart and Grove avenues. The parking lot of St. Benedict's played host to the festival's main staging area, known as the "Festplatz," while side streets played host to vendors and concessions, known as the "Christkindlmarkt." The merry-making now funds 30 scholarships, plus additional funding for St. Benedict's grade school programs, Breine said. Students within the parish can use the money to attend local Catholic high schools like St. Gertrude's and Benedictine College Preparatory school; such an education can cost $23,500 a year in tuition and fees. Breine did not divulge how much the festival rakes in overall. A handcuffed Ovidio Guzman photographed being extradited to Chicago to face drug charges Mexico City, Mexico The first photo of El Chapos son has been released by Mexican officials. A photo of handcuffed Ovidio Guzman Lopez on a plane for prison transfer has been released. The photo shows Ovidio Guzman Lopez being extradited from Mexico to the U.S. Saturday. He was extradited to American soil eight months after his arrest in Mexico. Ovidio Guzman Lopez was arrested January 5, 2023 after being arrested and freed by the Mexican Government in 2019. On September 16, he was released from the Altiplano Prison by elements of Interpol Mexico and transferred to Toluca Airport in an FGR helicopter where he was handed over to U.S. federal authorities who transferred him to Chicago. According to The New York Times, Ovidio Guzman is expected to appear in Federal District Court in Chicago Monday. He would be represented by Jeffrey Lichtman, a lawyer who also represented his father, El Chapo. Guzman Lopez was facing accusations in multiple American cities including New York, where charges were filed against him and his brothers in April for trafficking fentanyl. However, Chicago prosecutors were successful in having him transferred to them, where he will be prosecuted. Cancun police identify suspect in surge of vehicle thefts Cancun, Q.R. A suspect identified by Cancun Police as Carlos Meza, is said to be the alleged criminal in Alfredo V. Bonfil auto thefts. Over the weekend, a surge in car thefts was reported around the city of Cancun. Some of the vehicles have been recovered with police naming one youth as likely responsible for heading the activity. On Sunday, Policias Cancun released a brief statement saying a subject allegedly named Carlos Meza nicknamed Bibi would be the alleged criminal who operates in the Alfredo V. Bonfil delegation for a criminal group in the theft of vehicles. Cancun Police have released photos of the youth believed responsible for the surge in vehicle thefts. Photos: Policias Cancun September 17, 2023. According to the complaints made, it is stated that the point of operation of this subject and his criminal cell is on Colegios, Alamos and Huayacan Avenues. Later in the day, Policias Cancun reported the recovery of two vehicles and the arrest of at least one. The State Attorney Generals Office reports that in joint actions with the Secretariat of Citizen Security and the Secretariat of Municipal Public Security, two other stolen vehicles were recovered. As part of the joint actions to inhibit crime, the State Attorney Generals Office, the Secretariat of Citizen Security and the Secretariat of Municipal Public Security achieved the flagrante detention of a person in possession of a truck with a report of theft. They also recovered two other stolen vehicles. The detained man has been identified as Andres N who Cancun Police located traveling aboard a Ford Silverado truck which was stolen September 13 from Avenida de los Colegios. Police have said their first investigations link this subject as a member of a criminal group dedicated to violent vehicle theft. With the support of the technological tools available, including the C5 video surveillance cameras, it was possible to locate, in the streets of Alfredo V. Bonfil, two Honda vehicles, one type Accord and the other CRV, reported stolen 10 September of this year, they reported. Guatemalan detained for driving Cancun SUV with stolen plates Cancun, Q.R. A Guatemalan man was jailed over the weekend for driving a vehicle with stolen plates. On Friday, Cancun police patrolling the suburb town of Alfredo V. Bonfil ran plates of an SUV that came back registered to a car. According to a report by the SSC (Secretaria de Seguridad Ciudadana) of Quintana Roo, Erick Maudiel N, originally from Guatemala, was arrested for his probable participation in crimes against vehicle traffic safety. The events were recorded when police elements were carrying out crime prevention, surveillance and assistance to citizens on Francisco I. Madero Street in the town of Alfredo V. Bonfil where they observed a Honda CRV traveling at excess speed, so they to stopped it. Upon noticing the presence of the unit, the driver took an evasive attitude and tried to quickly flee. They proceeded to catch up with him to request an inspection of him as well as the vehicle. During said inspection, no illicit object was found on the citizen, however, when verifying the data of the unit with the C5 Complex of Cancun, police learned that the UTS-604-L license plate that the SUV was transporting corresponded to a Volkswagen Jetta type vehicle. The driver was arrested and placed at the disposal of the Attorney Generals Office of the State of Quintana Roo. Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals creating public registry to combat illegal agents Riviera Maya, Q.R. The Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals says a public registry of certified state real estate agents is in the works. The public registry is being put together so purchasers can hire licensed professionals and the Association can deal with illegal agents. Miguel Angel Lemus Mateos, the Coordinating President of the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals (AMPI) for Region 18, says they will combat real estate piracy with the registry of accredited people. We are going to publish a registry so that the market is aware of those who are accredited to work as real estate professionals which will combat empiricism and bad practices, Lemus Mateos said. The Real Estate Provision and Services Law of the State of Quintana Roo, which was approved by State Congress in 2014, prohibits non-licensed people from practicing as real estate agents, he said. Lemus Mateos also says every professional who wants to participate in real estate must register with the Secretariat for Agrarian, Land and Urban Development (Secretaria de Desarrollo Agrario, Territorial y Urbano), the Mexican cabinet agency in charge of agriculture, urban development and living space. What is needed to be able to provide agents in an accredited manner before the state government, before society and before investors, buyers of assets of their houses, condominiums and businesses, he added. To be registered as a real estate advisor, the interested person must respectively prove the following aspects including valid official identification with a photograph, proof of home address, demonstrate with proof of criminal records that you have not committed property crimes in addition to participating in training and being registered with SAT (tax administration), he explained. While in the case of foreigners, they must prove their immigration status to carry out paid activities and minimum requirements that people need to obtain their professional license from the state authority, he added, stating that there is also the State Real Estate Council that regulates this activity. To regulate this activity there is the State Real Estate Council, which was created as an auxiliary technical body of the secretary that promotes the study, analysis, professionalization and makes decisions in the field of the provision of real estate services, chaired by the Secretary of Urban Development, the Government Secretary, Cristina Torres, the Director of the Public Property Registry and the representatives of organizations such as AMPI and CANACO, he explained. According to Lemus Mateos, there are 665 AMPI (Asociacion Mexicana de Profesionales Inmobiliarios) certified real estate agents in Cancun, 131 in Playa del Carmen, 141 in Puerto Morelos, 35 in Tulum, 20 in Cozumel and 12 for Chetumal. At the national level we have more than 3,000 federal certifications and this year we are starting the first AMPI-UNAM diploma, so we are fighting for training, he said. Quintana Roo makes first ever cyberbullying arrest Jose Maria Morelos, Q.R. For the first time in state history, a man has been detained on an outstanding arrest warrant for cyber bullying. On Sunday, Martin N was arrested in the municipality of Jose Maria Morelos for sexually bullying a teen online. In an unprecedented event in Quintana Roo, personnel from the State Attorney Generals Office completed the arrest warrant against a male for his probable participation in the crimes of cyberbullying, as well as sexual harassment and sexual abuse, to the detriment of a teenager, the FGE repored in a statement. The accused is Martin N, who is the first person arrested for the crime of cyberbullying in the state of Quintana Roo. He was arrested for events occurred in August 2020 and September 2022, the state agency said. The first investigations indicate that the now-detained man allegedly committed sexual abuse against the victim, then 15. On the second occasion, through the social networks Facebook and WhatsApp, he proposed to have sexual relations in exchange for an amount of money, the FGE added. Martin N was arrested Sunday by elements of the Investigative Police and placed at the disposal of the Public Ministry. Tabasco prison escapee served warrant in Playa del Carmen for rape Playa del Carmen, Q.R. A Tabasco man with a history of escaping prison has been arrested in Playa del Carmen. On Sunday, Solidaridad officers served an arrest warrant on Gerardo Daniel N for rape. According to a public statement, he was wanted for the rape of a minor of a Tabasco girl reported missing since September 12. Since his arrest, authorities have also investigated him for commercial robberies in both Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Authorities have pointed out that Gerardo Daniel N has a history of escaping from the Social Reintegration Center of Macuspana, Tabasco, where he was imprisoned for a violent robbery. In a statement from the State Attorney Generals Office, Gerardo Daniel N was taken into custody for his probable participation in the crime of rape to the detriment of a minor victim who has an Amber Alert missing persons report in the state of Tabasco. Gerardo Daniel N was arrested by Municipal Officers while driving a vehicle, apparently in a state of intoxication, in which he was also with the missing minor. After his arrest, he was taken to the FGE of Quintana Roo for processing and was subsequently transferred to the Social Reintegration Center of Solidaridad. Three Americans injured in Cancun Hotel Zone crash Cancun, Q.R. A two vehicle crash in the Cancun Hotel Zone left three Americans injured and both vehicles heavily damaged. A van and an SUV collided at Kilometer 9.5 of Kukulkan Boulevard of the Hotel Zone around 8:00 p.m. Emergency units were sent to the site after a 911 report was made requesting assistance. There, police located a city combi had come to rest on a section of concrete fence belonging to a restaurant. The SUV involved was also heavily damaged on the front passenger side due to the hit. The vehicle was located turned sideways across Boulevard lanes with two doors opened. Municipal Transit responded to the report of the accident, finding three Americans who were inside at the time of the crash. Three Americans, identified as 31-year-old Elizabeth J, 62-year-old Francis J and Layerine D, 55, were all transferred to Cancun hospital. The SUV was also heavily damaged in the Sunday evening Cancun crash. Photo: Policia Cancun September 17, 2023. According to Cancun Police A traffic incident with injuries is reported in the hotel zone of Cancun on Kukulkan Boulevard km 9.5 before the club area. Police have not provided details leading up to the accident or a possible cause. Those injured in the crash did not receive life threatening injuries. It is not clear if the Americans are tourists or residents. Roanoke prosecutors have handled five red flag cases since Virginias red flag statute was enacted in 2020. But the third man flagged in the city is challenging the statutes limits. Kevin Lee Spencer, 47, was flagged in January after he fired three shots from an AK-47 into the floor of his occupied home. Police officers served him with an emergency substantial risk order in accordance with the statute, which allows law enforcement to seize firearms from individuals who seem on the verge of hurting themselves or others. According to court documents, Spencer relinquished seven firearms and two magazines the day of the incident. At a hearing in Roanoke Circuit Court in February, Judge Christopher Clemens extended a substantial risk order for 180 days. In March, Spencer pleaded guilty to shooting in an occupied building, a felony, and was sentenced to a 30-day jail term. As a convicted felon, Spencer is not permitted to possess or transport firearms, and so prosecutors decided to allow his risk order to expire in May. Clemens advised Spencer at his plea hearing to seek medical help and to wait several years before requesting that his right to carry firearms be restored. But on Aug. 17, Spencer filed a petition in Roanoke Circuit Court requesting that his firearms be handed over to his father, Michael N. Spencer. The petition claims that if Kevin Spencers substantial risk order had been renewed in May, he would have had the ability to request the transfer of his firearms to his father, according to Virginia state code. But because the order was allowed to expire, this avenue of relief is apparently not available. The petition also claims that if Spencers order had expired but he had not been convicted of a felony, he could ordinarily have been able to request the return of his firearms. But because he is a convict, that avenue of relief isnt available, either. Despite the fact that no statute squarely addresses this situation, the policy underlying the existing statutes favors the release of the firearms to [Spencers] father, the filing reads. At Spencers sentencing hearing in March, Clemens ordered the destruction of three of the seven guns seized. According to the citys Aug. 31 response to Spencers request, the destruction order has not yet been implemented. But the city recommended that the order should be executed, and that Spencer should not be allowed to possess or control his firearms, and related items, because of his felony record. The city has left Spencers request to transfer his guns to his father up to the court, which has not yet responded to the petition. Of course, if it is granted, the City requests that Mr. Michael N. Spencer be required to comply with all state and federal firearm transfer requirements, the citys response concludes. The woman who was found in a submerged vehicle in Claytor Lake was identified on Monday by state officials as Jean Cecilia Lester, 79, of Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania. On Saturday at approximately 7 p.m., a fisherman notified a Claytor Lake State Park ranger of what appeared to be a vehicle fully submerged in the lake near picnic shelter #2 in the picnic/day use area of the park, according to a news release from the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Virginia State Park rangers, deputies from the Pulaski County Sheriffs Office and first responders from Pulaski County Fire & EMS Special Operations Team and the Newburn Fire Department, were called in to assist with the recovery of the vehicle. Divers entered the water and found a Jeep Grand Cherokee in approximately 12 feet of water, with Lesters body inside the vehicle, according to the release. The body was taken to the Roanoke medical examiners office, and the incident is under investigation. No additional information was available Monday. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) The Office of the Presidents (OP) transfer of 125 million to the Office of the Vice President (OVP) was allowed under the 2022 General Appropriations Act (GAA), a senior member of the House appropriations panel said on Monday. Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo, vice chairperson of the appropriations panel, said the legality of the OPs fund transfer was supported by documents submitted to the committee and budget briefings by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) with lawmakers. Wala naman akong nakikita (I have not seen) so far na (that is) anything improper, at least based on the NEP (National Expenditure Program) and based on the statement issued by our Appropriations chairman, Congressman Zaldy Co, Quimbo said. Ipinaliwanag naman na ito ay use of contingent fund at meron namang existing line item at ito yung good governance and social services budget, she said. [Translation: It was explained that it was the use of contingent fund and there was an existing line item of good governance and social services budget.] Quimbo also said the transfer was very consistent on the chapters of the contingent fund and OVP budget in the 2022 NEP. In a letter sent to House appropriations committee chairperson and Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co, DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman explained that the 125 million released to the OVP came from the 7 billion budget set aside as Contingent Fund for 2022, and was intended to support the OVPs Good Governance Engagements and Social Services Projects. While it is understandable that, at the outset, the release of funds to the OVP may be perceived as a transfer, the same was not technically so, for such release was funded from Contingent Fund under the FY 2022 GAA and not from the budget of the OP, Pangandaman said in the letter to Co, portions of which was quoted by the lawmaker's office in a statement. Lawmakers from the Makabayan bloc have questioned the legality of the transfer, as well as Vice President Sara Dutertes request for a total of 650 million in confidential funds for 2024. Duterte is asking Congress for 500 million in confidential funds for the OVP, and 150 million for the Department of Education, which she concurrently heads. Quimbo said the use of confidential funds will be scrutinized when plenary debates on the 5.768-trillion General Appropriations Bill for 2024 start Tuesday. Various government agencies have requested over 10 billion in confidential and intelligence funds for 2024. The Hollins University Board of Trustees extended its contract with President Mary Dana Hinton into the next decade, the school announced Monday. The board of trustees has the highest confidence in President Hinton, who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, reads a written statement from Hollins University Board Chair Debra Meade. We could not be more pleased to have President Hinton as a part of our community, and we are grateful for her ongoing leadership of Hollins for the next seven years. A contract extension through June 30, 2030, was approved by a unanimous university board vote, the school announced. Hinton, who joined Hollins in 2020, is the universitys 13th president and its first African American president. Because Hollins is a private college, further details of the contract are not available. My most fervent hope for the office of the president is that we continue to create an environment where every student who comes through our gates knows that they are seen, heard, valued and belong here, Hinton said during an interview in late August. I think the president can help shape that environment. You dont do anything by yourself, but that is my repeat message to this community. Meade said theres recently been tremendous leadership churn in higher education. The average term in office for university presidents today is 5.9 years, she said. This seven-year contract extension is our clear endorsement of her leadership, Meade said of Hinton in the statement. As we prepare for a bold future ahead for Hollins in an ever-changing world, it is essential that we ensure her visionary leadership remains in place through 2030. Hinton joined and led Hollins during the coronavirus pandemic, and since then has led successful fundraising efforts, initiated new academic programs and campus facility upgrades, and improved student retention rates, the Monday statement reads. Meade said in the statement that Hintons fundraising success has been unmatched, securing more than $100 million in gifts to the university in her first three years, including the single largest gift in the history of womens colleges. It is such a privilege to serve the students who choose Hollins, Hinton said in the statement. The most important thing you can bring is an open heart and an open mind. We get to help create that every day, and thats what I love most about this work. The Santa Maria Valley is a diverse community, and in recent years, the Santa Maria Valley Chamber has made a deliberate effort to better meet the needs of all businesses in our community. With the Hispanic community making up over 60% of the Santa Maria Valley, and with the input and help of my partner and former board member Edgar Gascon, the Chamber has increased its outreach efforts to the Hispanic business community through the creation of the Hispanic Business Group. I am a first generation immigrant here in the U.S. and the third generation owner of a small Mexican Restaurant located in the heart of Santa Maria. With Sept. 15-Oct. 15 being Hispanic Heritage Month, it feels like an ideal time to discuss the benefits of our local business community getting involved in the Hispanic Business Groups meetings and networking events. Theres so much to gain and nothing to lose when attending. With such a diverse business landscape, fostering partnerships and collaboration is not just a choice; it's a strategic imperative for local businesses. Getting involved in the Hispanic Business Groups networking events provide an array of benefits to the business community, including the opportunity to: Expand Your Network: Connect with fellow business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals, broadening your network and opening doors to new opportunities. Gain Insights: Learn from the experiences and expertise of Hispanic business leaders. Their stories and perspectives can offer valuable lessons and inspiration for your own business journey. Build Lasting Relationships: Cultivate relationships based on trust and mutual support. Building strong partnerships takes time and effort, and these events are the perfect place to start. Discover Collaboration Opportunities: Identify potential areas of collaboration or partnership that can benefit your business and the community as a whole. Supporting and linking arms with your neighbor can make a stronger impact. While the Chamber hosts similar events, these events are planned and marketed by passionate members of the Hispanic Business Group, which provides our business community with a new network of individuals to connect with and expand your network. The Santa Maria Valley Hispanic Business Groups mission is to strengthen local businesses through fostering community engagement, providing business resources and tools, and supporting youth education. The group meets monthly to plan networking events and discuss strategies to better engage with the local Hispanic business community, along with the Santa Maria Valley business community as a whole. As Chair of the Hispanic Business Committee, I encourage our local businesses to find a way to get involved with these efforts. Whether you attend our mixers or monthly Grow Your Business events, or want to become a committee member and assist with planning and outreach, the group offers many ways to foster connections and expand your network at no cost. Part of the Chambers mission is to be a Champion for a Stronger Santa Maria Valley. Embracing the diversity of our local business community and building relationships with a variety of professionals in the Santa Maria Valley will make us stronger as a community. I encourage all of our local leaders and working professionals to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the Hispanic Business Group to develop and expand these relationships. To learn more about the Hispanic Business Group and be added to our mailing list, contact Suzanne Singh at suzanne@santamaria.com. A list of upcoming events is available on the Santa Maria Valley Chambers website at https://business.santamaria.com/events/calendar. FLORENCE, S.C. Citing discriminatory policies and lack of action, activists called for the resignation of Florence School Board Ones superintendent and full Board of Trustees. At Thursday nights board meeting, which was held in the cafeteria of Briggs Elementary School, 10 speakers shared their questions and concerns with the board and Superintendent Richard OMalley about the treatment of Black students and parents. While they spoke, dozens more in the audience clapped, cheered and called out their support. We have come tonight, collectively with other organizations, to ask the superintendent to resign, said James Williams, president of the Florence chapter of the Racial Justice Network. Two claims were at the center of the activists questions and calls for resignations: the lack of action or communication on issues Black parents bring before the board and a zero-tolerance policy on fighting that unfairly discriminates against Black students. IMG_3601.JPG Briggs Elementary Schools cafeteria was nearly full on Thursday night for the Florence One Schools Board of Trustees meeting where activists Some parents, like Shelly Williams, have said at various board meetings in the last few months that their concerns have gone unanswered even after appearing before the board and trying to get in touch with OMalley. He ignores a lot of parents. He ignores some white parents, too, especially if your kids got a disability, but he for sure ignores Black parents, she said after the meeting. Williams said that her children have experienced pain and suffering, trauma and violations within the district, and that her concerns and complaints have gone unanswered for over a year despite going through the proper channels and speaking before the board. We, as the parents and the community, have voiced our concerns numerous times that we can prove, she said. We have been ignored, not just by the superintendent, but by the board, and its hurting our children. Williams children were unable to start college on time because of issues with their transcripts, she said at the meeting. At past meetings, she has brought similar complaints of school and district officials ignoring her concerns to the detriment of her children. Ive been begging them to rectify the situation repeatedly since last school year, she said in a phone call in August. All Ive ever asked them for is a meeting, time, location, anything that we can to help clear this up. It was Williams who called for the resignation of the entire Board of Trustees, not just the superintendent. The second issue activists cited was the new student code of conduct, which included a policy giving school leaders the option to immediately expel a student for fighting on campus. It was approved by the Florence 1 Schools Board of Trustees in December 2021, according to past Morning News reporting. The start of the 2021-22 school year saw an unusually high level of fights 229 in just 66 days at the districts four middle schools and three high schools, and the policy was intended to curb fighting. At Augusts Florence One Schools Board of Trustees meeting, Superintendent OMalley disputed claims that the policy is zero-tolerance, which were made by some of the same people who spoke on Thursday. There is no zero-tolerance policy, OMalley said at the meeting. Thats made up by people with a different agenda to ensure their agenda gets moved forward. The code of conduct says that fights between students must be reported to law enforcement and the students involved are automatically recommended for expulsion. If a student in grades 4 to 12 attacks a school employee, that student is also reported to law enforcement and automatically recommended for expulsion. Possessing, selling, distributing or being under the influence of drugs warrants the same punishment, as do the possession of explosives, guns or other weapons and threats made against school personnel from students in grades 4 to 12, according to the code of conduct. Other offenses may also warrant a recommendation for expulsion, but no others are automatic. The district held 592 expulsion hearings during the 2022-23 school year, of which 249 were for fighting. Almost half of those hearings for fighting, 116, were reduced to a lower offense. From those nearly 600 hearings, only a single student was actually expelled: a white male student in the ninth grade. The constant rhetoric against me, this board and what gets portrayed out there, needs to come to an end when you hear this statistic, OMalley said at the August meeting about the expulsion statistic. He went on to say that, under past superintendents and board members, up to 29 students were expelled each year, the vast majority of which were Black. The rest of the students who were recommended for expulsion in the 2022-23 school year faced alternative punishments aimed at rehabilitation, like the districts alternative school or the Return to Learn program, which was passed by the Board of Trustees in March 2022 to offer students up for expulsion a way back into the district through alternative schooling and family counseling. While actual expulsions were low, activists focused on the high number of Black students recommended for expulsion, which accounted for over 85% of the hearings, despite Black students making up only around 54% of the districts population, according to data given by OMalley at the August meeting. Jerry Keith, president of the Florence chapter of the NAACP, called the fighting policy discriminatory and harmful at Thursdays meeting. In response to the passing of the fighting policy in 2021, the NAACP filed a Title VI complaint with the United States Department of Educations Office of Civil Rights. The Office confirmed in September 2022 that it had opened an investigation into the policy, according to past Morning News reporting. Keith said at Thursdays meeting that the Office of Civil Rights is continuing its investigation into the policy and recently received significant information from the district, according to the branchs legal representation. The Department of Educations Office for Civil Rights welcomes any additional complaints or concerns. Thats the reason Im here, he said. Parents and community members with complaints or concerns about Florence One Schools zero-tolerance policy or any other concern are encouraged to contact the Florence branch of the NAACP. Florence One Schools Board of Trustees members declined to comment on the activists comments after the meeting. E.J. McIver joined the meeting virtually, and Bryan Chapman was not in attendance. Superintendent OMalley did not return to the meeting after the executive session, which was closed to the public to address sensitive and confidential matters like personnel matters. When reached on Friday, he declined to comment on the calls for resignation and the activists claims. FLORENCE, S.C. After forming a team and implementing short-term fixes, Florence city officials say they are hearing fewer complaints of discolored water but long-term plans are still in the works. In August, the citys utilities department noticed an unusually high number of complaints about discolored water, particularly from customers on the southwestern side of Florence. City Manager Randy Osterman said on Thursday that the complaints are down to just a few each day from the 20 to 30 the city was getting some days in August. Every now and then well get a spike, where there might be two, three or four right in the morning, but they have stabilized, and they have come down, Osterman said. Get SCNOW.com for $1 for 26 weeks Support local journalism by becoming a member at www.scnow.com. Get the first 26 weeks for j So far, the citys response has been primarily reactive. If one or more customers complains of discolored water, work crews will flush out the water lines by opening hydrants in the area. This brings in clear water from other areas in the water system and gets rid of the discoloration. The waters unusual color is caused by iron, officials explained during a meeting with the press in late August. It is safe to drink and meets all quality regulations except for color, Utility Planning & Economic Development Director Michael Hemingway said at that time. Florences groundwater has a high iron level, most of which is filtered out. However, some iron remains and builds up in the bottom of water lines. When water sits stagnant for a while, like at dead-end lines or in areas with fewer customers, or if the lines are getting unusual action, such as the use of fire hydrants or a change in flow direction during construction, the iron in the bottom of the lines can get back into the water, which causes the discoloration. A plan to do a proactive, total flush of all the water in the West Lakes subdivision is nearly complete. This plan would do more than the reactive line flushing it would replace all of the water in the lines twice over and push out iron sitting in the bottom of the pipes, according to Utilities Director Jerry Dudley. If the plan is successful at cleaning the water in that area, the city will do similar flushes in other problem areas, according to Osterman. Addressing the symptoms of the problem but not the source will not fix the issue, he said. That is why the city is testing new chemical treatment processes at its Alligator Road water plant to filter out even more iron from the water before it makes its way into the system. We know our current treatment process meets all the (South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control) guidelines, but is it optimal to ensure that this iron doesnt drop out of this water as it goes through? Osterman said. Despite the falling number of complaints, he said the issue is not resolved and if the city only looks for short-term, quick fixes, it would be a disservice to its customers. We need to make it the best we can be, and we need to provide everybody with clear water, but the fixes are going to be longer term, Osterman said. The newly-formed water treatment team, which meets every two weeks and is made up of employees of the citys utility department and engineering consulting firm AECOM, have made a number of suggestions to better address the issue long-term. A pump on Twin Church Road and the South Florence water plant are both currently offline. Dudley said the pump should be back online by the end of the week, but the South Florence water plant will take longer. Because of lead times on parts and such, were a few months off from that one, he said. Im anticipating the end of the year having that one completely online. The city is nearing the end of a study with AECOM that takes a comprehensive look at all the groundwater facilities owned by the city of Florence. That study began last year and originally had nothing to do with discolored water, but it should prove useful in addressing the issue, Osterman said. As the city plans for the $446 million water and sewer system upgrade coming over the next several years, a priority will be placed on connecting dead-end lines together to form loops. These loops should prevent water from becoming stagnant, according to Osterman. All these parts werent necessarily part of the system as they were originally designed. Osterman said. As the citys grown, theyve become parts of the system, yet they were never designed or planned to be a comprehensive package, so we need to make sure that we are studying and treating them as a comprehensive package. If a customer is experiencing discolored water, city officials urge customers to report the problem to the Public Works & Utilities Department by calling 843-665-3236. After hours, calls are directed to police dispatch, who can get in touch with evening or on-call work crews to help fix the issue. Before calling, officials recommend comparing hot and cold water and water from different faucets around the house, including toilets. If discolored water appears in the cold water stream and from every faucet in the house, it is likely a city water issue and not a home plumbing issue. DARLINGTON, S.C. Even though the 5K honoring fallen city of Florence police Sgt. Terrence Carraway was postponed, it still received record support in its fifth year. The race, which is held annually at the Darlington Raceway, was originally planned for Aug. 31 to be tied into the Labor Day Weekend NASCAR races but was delayed to last Saturday due to Hurricane Idalia. Carraways widow, Allison, said the race is a highlight of her year and she is always grateful for the communitys nonstop support. Just a little note, today would have been my 34th wedding anniversary, she said. Carraway said she could not let her husbands legacy be forgotten after he was shot and killed in October 2018, which is why she founded the Terrence F. Carraway Foundation to carry on his selfless service to the community. The proceeds of the race went to the foundation. It was Darlington Raceways president, Kerry Tharp, who originally suggested the annual 5K to help honor and continue Terrence Carraways legacy. Tharp said he did not know the sergeant personally, but after his death heard about the impact he had on Florence and Darlington. He was just a fine man and a fine community servant, Tharp said. We just thought, Hey, theres got to be a way for us to honor his legacy and create something that can sustain over time. Only around 50 to 60 people attended that first 5K, but this year, pre-registrations soared over 250 ahead of Saturdays race. So many more people registered the day-of that the race started several minutes late. All of the proceeds today will go toward a memorial that were building here in Darlington, the South Carolina Fallen Officers Memorial, in honor of Terrence, Allison Carraway said. It will display all of the law enforcement officers and canines that were killed in the line of duty in South Carolina. Cam Watson, on behalf of WoodmenLife, donated an additional $5,000 to the memorial. He presented the check at Saturdays race. I found out about the memorial being built, and I reached out to her to see if we could donate a flagpole, and that phone call ended up lasting probably about an hour and a half, Watson said. I spoke with Allison, but I got to know Terrence through that phone call and the many things hes done. Florence Police Chief Allen Heidler was at Saturdays race and said he makes a point to come out each year. I just think its great to have this event out here to celebrate him and all that he did in his career, Heidler said. The weather was perfect for the race, which started a few minutes after 8 a.m. The sky was clear, and the chill morning air quickly warmed. The main event was the 5K, which took runners around turns one and two of the racetrack, out of the west tunnel, behind the Wallace Grandstand, to the fanzone and back onto the track through the main tunnel to finish out. Thomas Schnibben won first overall with a time of 17 minutes and 57 seconds, which is an average of a 5 minute 47 second mile. He said it was his second time running the race. Just a really beautiful day, just love what this organization does, Schnibben said. Its something great to come out of that tragedy that just really hit the community hard, and I just really appreciate what they do for us and what Darlington was willing to do here in the racetrack. Shawn Hendrix placed first among women with a time of 23 minutes and 50 seconds. She placed 14 overall. For those who wanted to go at their own pace, there was the Hot Lap Fun Run, which was not timed and took runners and walkers around the Darlington Raceway track. The event was sponsored by Browns RV Superstore. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) A maritime law expert is sure that vessels damaging corals in Rozul Reef (also known as Iroquois Reef) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) are from China, claiming there is an entire industry in Hainan that profits from the harvested corals and other raw materials. It is a prelude to reclamation but at the same time it is also a very profitable industry for them. There is an entire industry based in Hainan which profits out of the destruction of these reefs, Maritime Affairs expert Jay Batongbacal told CNN Philippines The Source on Monday. Im pretty sure that these are the same Chinese fishing fleets that operate out of Hainan. They did this to the areas that theyve turned into artificial islands and theyre doing the same thing now to all other reefs in the WPS, he added, saying materials taken from the contested waters are made into Chinese decorations, jewelry, and trinkets sold in a sector of the Chinese province. Batongbacal said the destruction of reefs is not surprising as fleets from the Eastern Giant have been damaging aquamarine habitats since 2013. He said these acts are part of Chinas "ecocide strategy" to drive away local fisherfolk from the area. Fishermen from the other countries like the Philippines will no longer have any reason to go to these places because there is nothing for them to catch anymore because the fisheries that are dependent on these reefs will also be gone, he said. Sen. Francis Tolentino earlier linked the destruction of the marine habitat in the WPS to a possible plan for reclamation in the area. Over the weekend the military said it has observed damaged corals in Rozul Reef, as it suspects China of conducting harvesting activities in the area and connecting the activities to the recent vessel swarming in the WPS. READ: Concerning resurgence: AFP reports more Chinese fishing vessels swarming West PH Sea Batongbacal urged Congress to expedite the passage of a bill declaring the countrys maritime zones, claiming that this would establish the legal bases for activities that could be conducted in these areas. Once that is clear, then we will have a basis to ask for international cooperation to try to combat these types of activities that destroy these coral habitats, he said. The expert cited the United Nations sustainable goal of conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas and marine resources and said that the country has options to make the Chinese pay for the damage via treaties, conventions, and litigation. Batongbacal also urged the government to document the damaging activities at the reefs to be able to collect evidence against the Chinese. According to Tolentino, complaints against those responsible for the damages could be filed in the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, the International Court of Justice, and for arbitration where damage fines could be demanded. The Chinese Embassy has yet to respond to journalists' requests for comment about the destruction of the reefs. How safe is it to eat the fresh produce from Japan after the Fukushima radioactive wastewater release? (Photo: Getty Images) By D. Kanyakumari Southeast Asia has long-standing economic ties with Japan, with countries like Malaysia importing hundreds of millions of ringgit of Japan's fish, crustaceans and molluscs each year. But Tokyo's recent decision to discharge treated radioactive water from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant into the Pacific Ocean is raising much cause for concern. For the record, Japan's move comes more than a decade after a 2011 tsunami destroyed the plant, triggering a massive clean-up effort that involved a staggering 1.25 million metric tonnes of contaminated water being collected, treated and stored on the site in storage tanks. Authorities have consistently touted the safety of the decision. And Malaysia, like Singapore and so many other countries, has opted against a ban on Japanese seafood, choosing instead to "monitor" the situation. But how safe is safe, really? According to Universiti Malaysia Terengganu's Dr Bryan Raveen Nelson, the answer is "very", albeit with some caveats. "The discharge process involves diluting radioactive water to background values as per International Atomic Energy Agency safety standards for exposure and consumption before release into the sea. "(Also), since there are (thousands of) tanks, the procedure will be gradual, with the water in each tank being treated before release," the aquatic and conservation science expert says. Still, Dr Bryan says, the public should be made aware of the processes in place, including the concentration of radiation in the released wastewater. Sophine Tann, vice-president of Pertubuhan Pelindung Khazanah Alam (PEKA) feels, meanwhile, that the Japanese government should have evaluated the move more thoroughly before making its decision. Her reason? There is no concrete proof the water being discharged is safe. "Firstly, you have to address the fact that when the water is released into the Pacific Ocean, it is going to affect everything everywhere. The Atlantic, the Indian Ocean and so on. Common sense tells us this water is full of radioactive chemicals," she said. Story continues "Yes, authorities claim it has been treated, but how much contamination can truly be filtered out? The scientific community is also saying that the water is void of tritium (a radioactive by-product of nuclear reactors). But the fact is there are many other chemicals in this water which are harmful to both sea life and humans." Hence, in Tann's view, more explanation is sorely needed. In this photo provided by Cabinet Public Affairs Office, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida eats the seafood from Fukushima prefecture at lunch at the prime minister's office in Tokyo, Japan, Wednesday, 30 Aug 2023. (Photo: Cabinet Public Affairs Office via AP) Will toxic seafood be a thing? For the record, according to the plant's operator, Tokyo Electric Power Company (Tepco), the wastewater release plan will see the discharge of over a million tonnes of treated water, with each litre containing about 190 becquerels of tritium, which is well below the World Health Organisation's (WHO) limit of 10,000 becquerels per litre. But Tann, like many others, remains apprehensive. And the constant assurances of authorities as well as Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's sushi-eating public relations stunt to dispel worries have failed to convince them. Worse still, China has stuck to its decision to ban seafood from Japan. And that has resulted not only in Japanese fisherfolk and seafood exporters being hit hard, but the global industry also feeling the effects. Malaysian seafood importer Rajaratnam Palanisamy, for example, says that many people he deals with have expressed concern over the current situation. "I myself don't import seafood from Japan. But a friend of mine who does bring in several types of fish and shellfish from there recently said that his customers who run Japanese marts and those who sell the produce at markets are anxious. "The common question is: 'Are you sure it's safe?'. That's followed by: 'Better not take the risk'. This has affected businesses and the general sentiment among us in the industry is that it will only get worse," he said. UMT's Dr Bryan noted, however, that public anxiety is unjustified. "The chances of background radiation affecting fish and shellfish are relatively small because firstly, the sea (around Fukushima) is deep. Some areas have a continuous 100-metre depth. Plus, there are plankton and more than enough marine biodiversity to absorb any radioactive materials. "It's almost impossible to throw off the balance in sea life," he said. PEKA's Tann, however, is far from convinced, noting that accumulation is an important factor which is not being highlighted enough. Should wastewater not be discharged at all? UMT's Dr Bryan points out that nuclear plants must always operate under strict set guidelines, including with regard to waste disposal. Hence, so long as all precautionary measures have been taken in considering radiological risks, with appropriate seafood monitoring in place, there is no reason for Japan to halt the discharge move. He noted, too, that decontamination efforts at and around Fukushima have continued to be made since 2011 to secure the site and ensure environmental safety, with the goal being to decommission the plant between 2040 and 2050. Tann, though, is of the view that other alternatives should have been assessed, including creating more on-site storage for wastewater or a discharge process via controlled evaporation. "It is the Japanese government's duty to ensure that the environment is safe and that their actions are not harmful to their people or the population anywhere else," she added. Do you have a story tip? Email: malaysia.newsroom@yahooinc.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, TikTok and Twitter. Also check out our Southeast Asia, Food, and Gaming channels on YouTube. Smooth-coated otters are no strangers to the bustling urban landscape of Singapore. Their adaptability is evident as they navigate through unexpected settings, including schools and hospitals, to reach their destination. In a heartwarming scene captured on Sunday (Sep. 17), a video showcased a remarkable family of around 10 otters as they braved the hectic Orchard Road, just outside Plaza Singapura and near the Istana. The otters journey was not without challenges as they left behind glistening wet paw prints on the pedestrian pavement, they had to deal with passing cars in order to cross the road. This embedded content is not available in your region. Amid the unforgiving traffic, the otters found themselves huddled at the roadside, with no vehicles showing any signs of slowing down. Thats when a hero arrived in the form of a police officer. Approaching the timid otters, the officer clapped his hands gently, encouraging the squeaky mammals to press on with their quest. Taking position behind a makeshift barricade, he skillfully used hand signals to bring the traffic to a halt, ensuring oncoming cars respected the otters passage. A testament to the power of compassion and cooperation, one car driver followed the officers instructions without hesitation, providing a safe pathway for the otters to cross to the other side. After the video went viral, we would like to join in the chorus of praise for the officer, as we expect nothing less from Singapores otter-ities. SWNS A new study suggests "spenders" are happier with their life, but "savers" are wiser. The poll of 2,000 American shoppers found 56% of Americans consider themselves to be spenders splurging for things they really want, while 34% identified themselves as savers who wont shop until what they want goes on sale or becomes a necessity. Meanwhile, 10% didnt claim to be either kind of shopper. Perhaps unsurprisingly, spenders were found to spend more money on non-essential items during any given week by nearly double of what savers spend ($621, compared to $348). In turn, savers were found to set aside less of their total income towards non-essential purchases than their spender counterparts (18%, compared to 22%). Compared to savers, spenders were also found to be happier with their relationships (78% and 63%, respectively), work life (78% and 57%, respectively) and personal life (77% and 71%, respectively). Interestingly, spenders were also happier with their financial life than savers (73% and 56%, respectively). But savers might have the upper hand when it comes to managing their money only 29% of their total annual income is used on miscellaneous purchases, while spenders are using up 38% of their income. Commissioned by Citizens Pay and conducted by OnePoll, the study also found 59% often and always think through the financial impact of big purchases before deciding if theyre worth buying. And despite their proclivity for spending, spenders are more likely than average to consider the financial impact of a big purchase (61%). The items people think through and research the most are personal electronics (59%), vehicles (50%) and vacations (40%). For 32% of spenders, fitness or recreation equipment is a highly considered purchase, whereas 34% of savers are likely to do their homework before purchasing household appliances. Before making big purchases, respondents often consider how long the purchase will last them (61%), how often it will be used (57%) and if theyre getting the best price (55%). Three in 10 consider the availability of financing or pay-over-time options before making a big purchase. Big purchases were then defined as any purchase that exceeds $1,762, on average, and many of those purchases warrant nearly 12 hours of research beforehand. On average, people will postpone their big purchase decisions 17 days to wait and see if it goes on sale. In a way, it makes sense that people feel happier when theyre spending more, said Christine Roberts, EVP and President at Citizens Pay. But spending more isnt necessarily the same as spending responsibly. Whats really important is the level of consideration people have and the impact their purchases have on their financial livelihood. Results found some universal commonalities for all shoppers, as well. Over a third (37%) said they plan out their budget on a weekly basis, with 9% doing it daily. Two in three of these budgeters claim theyre strict with their spending plans. Many respondents shared similar personal financial goals, including building a retirement plan (53%), building an emergency fund (52%), building an investment portfolio (47%) and affording a home (41%). Three in four also claimed it was easy for them to discern the difference between the things they want and the things they need. Of course, 78% agreed its satisfying when purchases can be considered both. Four in 10 (40%) also indicated that they were already planning out their holiday budget for this year, setting aside an average $1,792 for gifts. Among those planning ahead for the holidays, spenders are already planning to purchase 13 items, compared to 9 items for savers. Three-quarters (74%) of these holiday shoppers claimed they were good gift-givers, while only 8% that admitted they were terrible at it. Nearly 4 in 10 (39%) are planning on using buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) or pay-over-time services for holiday shopping purchases this year. However, 43% noted they do not use these services more during the holiday shopping season compared to the rest of the year. The holiday season is a prime time for people to spend a lot of money all at once, continued Roberts. We recommend that people create a comprehensive budget for themselves and ask themselves what factors satisfy their holiday buys, either for themselves or for people they plan to gift. TOP FACTORS CONSIDERED FOR BIG PURCHASES How long it will last - 61% How often it will be used - 57% Am I getting the best price/deal - 55% What warranties it comes with - 52% What it will be used for - 45% How necessary it is right now - 32% Financing or pay-over-time options - 30% How it will impact my budget - 30% If it will improve my lifestyle/livelihood - 26% If it will improve my health - 20% How often it goes on sale - 18% Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 American shoppers was commissioned by Citizens Pay between September 7 and September 9, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR). 18 Sep Louis Koo will be in Malaysia for a month to shoot his new movie, "Behind the Shadows". As reported on Oriental Daily, the actor, who appeared at the press conference held in KL alongside Chrissie Chau, Liu Kuan-Ting, Raymond Wong, Renci Yeung, among others, stated that the movie has been filming for a few days now, and that they will continue to do so until the middle of October. He also added that the project involves more than 100 Malaysian actors and crew members. Praising Malaysia for its delicious food and comfortable weather, Louis said that he even enjoyed the traffic jams. "Every time I ride in the car, I can take the opportunity to sleep and rest. You can fall asleep three times and you still won't reach the destination. I can almost get off the car. Eat some wonton noodles and then get in the car and pass," he said jokingly . It is noted that Louis' main company, One Cool Film Production Limited opened a branch in Malaysia earlier. Louis said that the company will also be shooting a film with local actors next year, though he will only be involved behind the scenes. "I will try my best to come to Malaysia as there are many delicious food here," he said. In the movie, Louis plays a detective who is threatened by the person involved in the adultery case that he is investigating. Louis and his cast starting filming a few days ago (Photo Source: Louis Koo Fanpage IG) A photo of the bestseller items you can shop from Mytheresa. (PHOTO: MyTheresa) Luxury e-tailer platform MyTheresa has been around since the '80s when it first operated as a physical store, and now ships to over 130 countries worldwide. The Munich-based e-tailer is one of the most popular luxury digital platforms where fashion lovers get their latest ready-to-wear attire, shoes, bags and even kidswear. There are plenty of luxury brands to shop from, including Prada, Burberry, Chloe, Junya Watanabe and Celine, to indie labels like Acne Studios, Toteme, and Frame. The best thing about shopping on MyTheresa is that taxes, duties and fees are already covered, so you won't worry about your items getting stuck at customs. MyTheresa has a limited offer now specially for Singapore shoppers - use this promo code 'LOVE10' to take 10 per cent off full-priced items on orders above S$750. Remember to add the code at the end of your checkout. Best of all, enjoy free shipping for a limited time only! Plus with Christmas creeping just around the corner, you'll want to don the cutest dress and bags for those festive parties. READ: Yahoo Choice Awards: When is it and what's it all about 16 chic and fashionable loafers for stylish women in Singapore: Tod's, Pedro and more Bright Vachirawit models Calvin Klein's Fall 2023 looks; shop 50% clearance sale now Uniqlo: C range by former Chloe designer Clare Waight Keller drops today - shop now How to create a smart home: Home automation guide for beginners Input the promo code at the end of checkout to take 10% off. (PHOTO: MyTheresa) We have the lowdown on what Singapore shoppers have been buying, and these bestseller items are sure to jazz up your wardrobe. See the list below: 1. Mach & Mach Double Bow embellished pumps S$1,265 at MyTheresa Mach & Mach Double Bow embellished pumps. (PHOTO: MyTheresa) Double crystal bows are Mach & Mach's signature, and signify the brand's escapist approach to footwear. These pumps are finished with diamante embellishments and coiled ankle straps. 2. Roger Vivier Gommettine patent leather ballet flats S$1,080 at MyTheresa Roger Vivier Gommettine patent leather ballet flats. (PHOTO: Mytheresa) The Gommettine ballet flats from Roger Vivier offer a contemporary take on the classic shoe style. 3. Mugler Paneled bodysuit S$675 at MyTheresa A model wearing a Mugler Paneled bodysuit. (PHOTO: MyTheresa) This bodysuit from Mugler is defined by meticulously placed tulle and Lycra panels that sculpt and contour the bodice. 4. Jacquemus Le Bambino leather shoulder bag S$725 at MyTheresa A photo of Jacquemus Le Bambino leather shoulder bag. (PHOTO: MyTheresa) One of the smartest additions to Jacquemus offering of pint-sized bags is this aptly-named Le Bambino. 5. Rebecca Vallance Matchmaker jacquard gown S$1,159 at MyTheresa A model wearing a Rebecca Vallance Matchmaker jacquard gown. (PHOTO: MyTheresa) From structured tailoring to glamorous night-out pieces, Rebecca Vallance covers all the bases for the perfect wardrobe. SG Telegram banner. 6. Jimmy Choo Romy 85 suede pumps S$806 at MyTheresa A photo of Jimmy Choo Romy 85 suede pumps. (PHOTO: MyTheresa) A classic silhouette in supple suede, Jimmy Choo's Romy 85 pumps are an alluring all-rounder. 7. Ferragamo Varina ballet flats S$769 at MyTheresa A photo of Ferragamo Varina ballet flats. (PHOTO: MyTheresa) Salvatore Ferragamo's Varina ballet flats are topped off with the label's signature grosgrain bow applique secured with metal hardware. Their glossy patent leather profile lends a glamorous finish. 8. Patou Convertible wool-blend cardigan S$675 at MyTheresa A model wearing a Patou Convertible wool-blend cardigan. (PHOTO: MyTheresa) Made from a soft wool blend, this cardigan from Patou is elevated with a detachable collar decorated with delicate broderie anglaise details. The long-sleeve style is finished with ribbed trims. 9. Gianvito Rossi Gianvito 70 leather pumps S$929 at MyTheresa A photo of Gianvito Rossi Gianvito 70 leather pumps. (PHOTO: MyTheresa) We love the chic black shade of these smooth leather pumps from Gianvito Rossi. They're a perfect subtle touch of contrast in a colourful ensemble, and will transition effortlessly from the office to evening drinks. 10. Rene Caovilla Cleo embellished leather sandals S$1,330 at MyTheresa A photo of Rene Caovilla Cleo embellished leather sandals. (PHOTO: MyTheresa) Rene Caovillas Cleo sandals have been a style icon since 1975 so much so that they've even been exhibited at the MoMA. They're handmade in Italy from silver-tone leather and feature the house's signature bombe coil straps, which are hand-embellished with crystals using a heat-sealing technique that is to the brand. 11. Versace Medusa latex midi dress S$3,609 at MyTheresa A model wearing Versace Medusa latex midi dress. (PHOTO: MyTheresa) This dress from Versace is made in Italy from a thin layer of black latex and shaped into a sleek, figure-hugging silhouette. It is defined by its corseted bodice and thin straps with gold-toned Medusa hardware. 12. Safiyaa Strapless feather-trimmed minidress S$2,175 at MyTheresa A model wearing Safiyaa Strapless feather-trimmed minidress. (PHOTO: MyTheresa) Have fun dressing up for big occasions with this feather-trimmed minidress from Safiyaa. The glamorous off-shoulder style is cut into a feminine fit and flare silhouette. 13. Taller Marmo Feather-trimmed minidress S$2,055 at MyTheresa A photo of Taller Marmo Feather-trimmed minidress. (PHOTO: MyTheresa) Trimmed with a decadent display of feathers, this minidress from Taller Marmo is made from sheer silk and has a slip for opacity. The design is detailed with a central opening for alluring appeal. New explosions struck Sevastopol and smoke was seen rising from a prominent landmark just kilometres away from the Crimean city as Ukrainian forces announced they were carrying out a joint intelligence operation in the region illegally annexed by Russia in 2014. Ukraine has claimed the recapture of the eastern village of Klishchiivka on the southern flank of Bakhmut after a period of reported heavy fighting. It follows the recapture of Andriivka, another village in the region, Kyiv forces are said to be gaining ground. On Sunday they sent drones to disrupt air traffic in Moscow and caused a fire at an oil depot, according to Russian reports. "Klishchiivka was cleared of the Russians and liberated," Alexander Syrskyi, commander of Ukraine's ground forces, said in a post on the Telegram messaging app. It comes as Volodymyr Zelensky spoke out in an interview with CBS saying the conflict is World War I with drones. He explained the war is fought on a 700-mile front and the red area is the 20% of Ukraine still occupied by Russia where donated tanks should have advanced but they were stopped by Russian trenches, minefields and artillery. He said to CBS: Now, its an artillery duel with each side firing about 40,000 shells a day. Ukrainian infantry is advancing bloody yards at a time. Key Points Ukraine liberates Klishchiivka village near Bakhmut, says Kyiv New explosions at Sevastopol as Ukraine launches fresh drone strikes on Crimea Nato chief warns Putin eyes long war Ukraine on the agenda as US and China hold talks Volodymyr Zelensky to meet Joe Biden this week Four killed in Russian attacks on Ukraine - Ukrainian officials Explosions shake Ukraines Lviv as western parts remain under air raid alerts 05:20 , Arpan Rai Blasts rocked Ukraines western city of Lviv in the early hours of Tuesday as Russia launched large-scale air attacks that struck an industrial warehouse, officials said. Local officials said air defence systems were engaged in repelling a Russian air attack that started in the early hours. Story continues All of western half of Ukraine was covered under air raid alerts, starting from about 0000GMT. The mayor of Lviv Andriy Sadovyi and regional governor Maxim Kozitsky asked people to stay indoors due to the threat of continuing attacks in the region. As a result of the strike on the territory of Lviv, we recorded a fire at an industrial warehouse, he said. Explosions shake Ukraines Lviv as western parts remain under air raid alerts Ukraine says recapture of key village near Bakhmut a springboard for more gains against Russia 04:45 , Eleanor Noyce Ukraines military claims its latest recapture of a key village in Bakhmut will act as a springboard for further offensive actions against Russias continuing invasion. Ukraine scored another victory recently when it recently recaptured village Klishchiivka that lies in the southern flank of Bakhmut, as its forces fought off Russian attempts to get back into the area. The war-torn countrys forces had last week also recaptured Andriivka, another village a few kilometres to the south of Klishchiivka, after earlier criticism alleged Ukraines counteroffensive against Russian forces had slowed. Arpan Rai reports: Why recapture of key village near Bakhmut is critical for Ukraine Ukraine and its allies battle Russian bid to have genocide case tossed out of the UN's top court 03:45 , Eleanor Noyce Ukraines legal battle against Russia over allegations of genocide used by Moscow to justify its 2022 invasion resumes Monday at the United Nations highest court, as Russia seeks to have the case tossed out. Hearings at the International Court of Justice, also known as the World Court, will see Ukraine supported by a record 32 other nations in a major show of support. Kyiv launched the case shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine, arguing that the attack was based on false claims of acts of genocide in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions of eastern Ukraine and alleging that Moscow was planning genocidal acts in Ukraine. It wants the court to order Russia to halt its invasion and pay reparations. Mike Corder reports: Ukraine and its allies battle Russian bid to have genocide case tossed out of the UN's top court Pope meets with new Russian ambassador as second Moscow mission planned for his Ukraine peace envoy 02:45 , Eleanor Noyce Russias new ambassador to the Vatican met Monday with Pope Francis for a protocol visit, as signs emerged that the Vaticans Ukraine peace envoy could soon be undertaking a second mission to Moscow. The Vatican said Ambassador Ivan Soltanovsky was presenting his credentials to Francis, signalling the official start of his term. His motorcade was seen leaving the Russian embassy Monday morning, bound for the Vatican, and returning about two hours later. Soltanovsky replaced Ambassador Alexander Avdeev, whom Francis met with on Feb. 25, 2022 in a remarkable in-person papal visit to the embassy the day after Moscows forces invaded Ukraine. More here: Pope meets with new Russian ambassador as second Moscow mission planned for his Ukraine peace envoy Why did Russia invade Ukraine? 01:45 , Eleanor Noyce Russias special military operation in Ukraine has been raging for one year now as the conflict continues to record devastating casualties and force the mass displacement of millions of blameless Ukrainians. Vladimir Putin began the war by claiming Russias neighbour needed to be demilitarised and de-Nazified, a baseless pretext on which to launch a landgrab against an independent state that happens to have a Jewish president in Volodymyr Zelensky. Ukraine has fought back courageously against Mr Putins warped bid to restore territory lost to Moscow with the collapse of the Soviet Union and has continued to defy the odds by defending itself against Russian onslaughts with the help of Western military aid. Read more: Heres why Putin really invaded Ukraine Ukraine reboots defence ministry as it seeks more gains against Putins forces Tuesday 19 September 2023 00:45 , Eleanor Noyce Ukraine said it is rebooting its defence ministry after six deputy defence ministers were fired amid its most significant wartime cabinet reshuffle yet. This is the second major shake-up in Ukraines defence leadership since defence minister Oleksii Reznikov was forced to resign and replaced with Rustem Umerov two weeks ago. Deputy defence minister Hanna Maliar, who frequently issued public updates on Russias war against Ukraine, was among the six sacked on Monday. The state secretary for defence was sacked as well. Read more: Ukraine reboots defence ministry as it seeks more gains against Putins forces Trump welcomes Putins praise: That means what Im saying is right Monday 18 September 2023 23:45 , Eleanor Noyce Donald Trump has welcomed praise from Russian president Vladimir Putin after again claiming that he would end the war in Ukraine in 24 hours if he is re-elected in 2024. In a widely-criticised interview with Meet the Press moderator Kristen Welker, Mr Trump said that Putins comments proved that what Im saying is right about resolving the 18-month-old war. The former president has repeatedly claimed without providing any details that he could end the war within days should he be successful in taking back the White House. Bevan Hurley reports: Trump welcomes Putins praise: That means what Im saying is right Mexico president defends Russia participation in military parade Monday 18 September 2023 22:45 , Eleanor Noyce Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Monday defended the presence of a Russian military unit in a weekend parade marking Mexicos independence day, following sharp criticism his country had given a platform to forces that invaded Ukraine. Ukraines ambassador to Mexico, opposition politicians and critical media blasted the decision to allow a Russian unit to participate on Saturday, but Lopez Obrador said Mexico had allowed any country to join in. We have relations with all countries in the world and we invite everyone, Lopez Obrador said at a regular government press conference after noting that the presence of the Russian unit had sparked a scandal. Lopez Obrador, a leftist, has sought to keep Mexico neutral in the war between Russia and Ukraine, at one point proposing peace talks. Nonetheless, his government has backed some major U.N. resolutions criticizing Russias role in the conflict. Ukraines ambassador to Mexico, Oksana Dramaretska, said on X that the parade had been sullied by the participation of a Russian unit which she said was stained with blood. How coherent is it Mr. Lopez Obrador with your policy of neutrality and condemnation of aggression against my country?, Dramaretska wrote on the platform formerly known as Twitter. Russias embassy in Mexico celebrated the 154th Preobrazhenskiy Regiments participation in the event. Long live the friendship between Mexico and Russia!, the Russian embassy said on X. Russian defensive lines breached in capture of villages near Bakhmut, Ukraine commander says Monday 18 September 2023 21:45 , Eleanor Noyce The commander of Ukraines ground forces has claimed the recapture of another village in the east of the country has helped Kyivs forces break through part of Russias defensive lines around the devastated city of Bakhmut. The area has been a key part of Ukraines counteroffensive to try and reclaim territory occupied by Russia as part of its near-19 month invasion. Bakhmut has been the scene for some of the bloodiest fighting of the war and in the process taking on symbolic importance for both Russia and Ukraine far greater than its size. Retaking Klishchiivka is considered tactically important as it will allow Ukrainian forces to further extend their gains around Bakhmut and keep pushing forward. Chris Stevenson reports: Russian defensive lines breached in capture of two villages in east, Ukraine says Human rights in Russia have 'significantly' worsened since Ukraine war began, UN-backed expert says Monday 18 September 2023 20:45 , Eleanor Noyce The rights situation in Russia has significantly deteriorated since President Vladimir Putin launched his war against Ukraine in February last year, an expert commissioned by the U.N.s top human rights body said in her first report on the country on Monday. Mariana Katzarova, the special rapporteur on Russias rights situation mandated by the Human Rights Council, chronicled the domestic crackdown that has largely targeted critics of Putins war as well as other opposition voices in Russia. Her report, made public on Monday, is separate from another probe by U.N.-backed investigators that has accused Russia of war crimes in Ukraine. Read more: Human rights in Russia have 'significantly' worsened since Ukraine war began, UN-backed expert says Top US House Republican McCarthy to meet Zelensky this week Monday 18 September 2023 20:01 , Eleanor Noyce Republican U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy will meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky this week, McCarthy told reporters on Monday. Democratic President Joe Biden is slated to host Zelensky on Thursday at the White House, and the Ukrainian leader is expected to meet with congressional leaders from both political parties while he is in Washington, the White House said last week. Ukraine says recapture of key village near Bakhmut a springboard for more gains against Russia Monday 18 September 2023 19:45 , Eleanor Noyce Ukraines military claims its latest recapture of a key village in Bakhmut will act as a springboard for further offensive actions against Russias continuing invasion. Ukraine scored another victory recently when it recently recaptured village Klishchiivka that lies in the southern flank of Bakhmut, as its forces fought off Russian attempts to get back into the area. The war-torn countrys forces had last week also recaptured Andriivka, another village a few kilometres to the south of Klishchiivka, after earlier criticism alleged Ukraines counteroffensive against Russian forces had slowed. Arpan Rai reports: Why recapture of key village near Bakhmut is critical for Ukraine Mondi to leave Russia after agreeing to sell biggest Russian paper mill Monday 18 September 2023 18:45 , Eleanor Noyce UK paper and packaging giant Mondi has agreed to sell its largest Russian plant for around 775 million euros (668 million) to a Moscow-based property development group. Mondis share price jumped by nearly 5% on Monday morning after it unveiled the deal involving Syktyvkar, its last remaining plant in Russia and the countrys biggest paper producer. The sale to Sezar Invest, a division of property development firm Sezar Group, will involve six monthly payments in Russian rubles. Anna Wise reports: Mondi to leave Russia after agreeing to sell biggest Russian paper mill Brazil's Lula to meet Ukraine's Zelensky on Wednesday - sources Monday 18 September 2023 17:52 , Eleanor Noyce Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva will meet his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky in New York on Wednesday, two sources from the Brazilian government said on Monday. How Ukraines battle for the Black Sea could inflict serious pain on Putin Monday 18 September 2023 17:45 , Eleanor Noyce Russian warships patrol the surface of the Black Sea, launching missiles at Ukrainian cities and towns as part of a near-daily assault. While also enforcing a de-facto blockade, leaving ships in little doubt of the consequences if they try to break it. Such is the importance of this shipping route for both sides. For a long time Russian ships moved with relative impunity. And a grain deal that allowed Ukraine to export from its ports on the Black Sea allowed for an uneasy status quo to hold. But after Moscow withdrew from that deal in the summer and stepped up attacks on Ukraines ports, and Kyiv began a counteroffensive to retake land occupied by Russia in southern and eastern Ukraine the Black Sea has become one of the most active fronts in the war. Joe Middleton reports: How Ukraines battle for the Black Sea is inflicting serious pain on Putins forces Poland proposes ban on Russian diamonds, LPG in new sanctions package Monday 18 September 2023 16:44 , Eleanor Noyce Poland proposed on Monday that new European Union sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine should include a ban on Russian diamonds and Liquid Petroleum Gas and called for aligning sanctions against Belarus with those against Moscow. In a proposal seen by Reuters, Poland calls for banning imports of Russian diamonds, the sales of which brought the Russian budget $4.5 billion in 2021, it said, and putting individual sanctions on the Russian Alrosa diamond company. Alrosa has supported Russian military forces and the Russian war efforts in Ukraine, both directly and indirectly, for many years, the Polish paper said. The EU, which has already agreed 11 sanctions package against Russia since Moscow invaded Ukraine in February 2022, should also ban the provision of Information and Communication Technology services to entities from Russia, including computer software, cybersecurity services, and other ICT/IT services. In the 8th package of sanctions against Russia, IT consultancy services were banned. This is a fairly narrow scope. No further ICT services were banned in the 9th and 10th sanctions packages. Therefore, we call for other services to be included in the ban, in accordance with Polands proposals, it said. The EU should also stop buying Russian Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Poland said, to preserve the integrity and transparency of the Liquefied Petroleum Gas market and avoid distortion of competition. Although LPG is a petroleum product, it has not fallen within the scope of the EUs embargo on the products belonging to the aforementioned category, it said. Ukraine breached Russian lines by taking two eastern villages - commander Monday 18 September 2023 16:28 , Eleanor Noyce The commander of Ukrainian ground forces said on Monday the recent recapture of the eastern villages of Andriivka and Klishchiivka had enabled Kyivs troops to breach Russian lines near the devastated city of Bakhmut. These settlements, at first glance small, were important elements in the enemys defensive line which stretched from Bakhmut to Horlivka, General Oleksandr Syrskyi said on the Telegram messaging app, referring to a town about 40 km (25 miles) from Bakhmut. As a result of our troops successful actions, the enemys defensive line - which it tried to close by throwing all available reserves into battle - was breached. Syrskyi said Russian troops were still trying to regain the positions they had lost in the Bakhmut sector, and that fighting there was heavy. He gave no further details. Bulgarian army destroys explosives on drone that landed in Black Sea resort Monday 18 September 2023 16:04 , Eleanor Noyce A Bulgarian army bomb disposal team on Monday destroyed in a controlled explosion a device attached to a drone that landed on Sunday evening in the Black Sea town of Tyulenovo, the defence ministry said in a statement. The army unit inspected the site and concluded that transporting the drone to another location with the explosives still attached would not be possible, the defence ministry said. We can certainly assume that it is related to the war that Russia launched against Ukraine, Defence Minister Todor Tagarev told reporters. This war is inevitably associated with increasing risks to our security. Tagarev did not provide more detailed information on where the drone came from and how it reached NATO member Bulgaria. The tourist resort of Tyulenovo is situated 70 kilometres (43 miles) south of the Romanian border and across the Black Sea from Crimea, the peninsula annexed by Russia in 2014 and now a regular target of Ukrainian drone attacks. Police cordoned off the area on Sunday evening and restricted public access to local restaurant terraces, Marian Zhechev, mayor of Shabla municipality of which Tyulenovo is a part, told Nova TV. He said the drone had been found on rocks next to moored boats at Tyulenovo, describing it as an aircraft with standard ammunition. It was unclear whether the drone had fallen from the air or had been washed up by the sea currents. A blast is seen in the place where drone carrying explosives was detonated on the Black Sea coast near the village of Tyulenovo, Bulgaria (via REUTERS) Georgia accuses ex-official of plotting from Ukraine to oust Tbilisi government Monday 18 September 2023 15:47 , Eleanor Noyce Georgia on Monday accused a former deputy interior minister now working for Ukrainian intelligence of plotting to encourage civil unrest to try to overthrow the Tbilisi government, testing ties with Ukraine as Georgia deepens relations with Russia. The State Security Service said it had been monitoring a group led by Giorgi Lortkipanidze, now deputy head of Ukrainian military intelligence but previously deputy minister in a strongly pro-Western Georgian government. According to confirmed and verified information, the implementation of the plan - developed by Giorgi Lortkipanidze - would involve a rather large group of Georgian fighters in Ukraine and a part of Georgian youth, influenced by interested parties, whose training is taking place near the Polish-Ukrainian state border, the service said in a statement. It did not provide corroborating evidence and no comment was immediately available from Kyiv or Lortkipanidze. The statement said the alleged plotters planned to channel likely frustration among young Georgians if the European Union failed to grant their country candidate status after a process culminating at an EU summit in mid-December. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday said the future of Ukraine, Moldova and Western Balkan countries was in our union, but was more cautious on Georgia, which EU officials say has slid back on its path to membership. The Caucasus republic, which says it is committed to joining the EU, was denied candidate status last year even as Ukraine and Moldova received it. For Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League, representing Ukraine is a duty to the country Monday 18 September 2023 15:31 , Eleanor Noyce Just playing is a small victory for Shakhtar Donetsk, though the Ukrainian champions wont stop there. Team captain Taras Stepanenko told The Associated Press on Monday that Shakhtars opening Champions League game against Porto on Tuesday is part of his teams duty to represent Ukraine and show his countrys resilience. Our soldiers fight in the battles and we fight in the sports arena. So its our duty like citizens of Ukraine, he said. More here: For Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League, representing Ukraine is a duty to the country Ukraine and its allies battle Russian bid to have genocide case tossed out of the UN's top court Monday 18 September 2023 15:15 , Eleanor Noyce Ukraines legal battle against Russia over allegations of genocide used by Moscow to justify its 2022 invasion resumes Monday at the United Nations highest court, as Russia seeks to have the case tossed out. Hearings at the International Court of Justice, also known as the World Court, will see Ukraine supported by a record 32 other nations in a major show of support. Kyiv launched the case shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine, arguing that the attack was based on false claims of acts of genocide in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions of eastern Ukraine and alleging that Moscow was planning genocidal acts in Ukraine. It wants the court to order Russia to halt its invasion and pay reparations. Mike Corder reports: Ukraine and its allies battle Russian bid to have genocide case tossed out of the UN's top court Kosovo's prime minister blames EU envoy for the failure of recent talks with Serbia Monday 18 September 2023 14:55 , Eleanor Noyce Kosovos prime minister on Monday accused the European Union special envoy in the normalization talks with Serbia of not being neutral and correct and coordinating with Belgrade against Pristina. Prime Minister Albin Kurti said EU envoy Miroslav Lajcak had coordinated with Serbias President Aleksandar Vucic in the EU-facilitated talks held last week in Brussels. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, who supervised the talks in Brussels, blamed the latest breakdown on Kurtis insistence that Serbia should essentially recognize his country before progress could be made on enforcing a previous agreement reached in February. Read more: Kosovo's prime minister blames EU envoy for the failure of recent talks with Serbia Ukraine reboots defence ministry as it seeks more gains against Putins forces Monday 18 September 2023 14:41 , Eleanor Noyce Ukraine said it is rebooting its defence ministry after six deputy defence ministers were fired amid its most significant wartime cabinet reshuffle yet. This is the second major shake-up in Ukraines defence leadership since defence minister Oleksii Reznikov was forced to resign and replaced with Rustem Umerov two weeks ago. Deputy defence minister Hanna Maliar, who frequently issued public updates on Russias war against Ukraine, was among the six sacked on Monday. The state secretary for defence was sacked as well. Read more: Ukraine reboots defence ministry as it seeks more gains against Putins forces Human rights in Russia have 'significantly deteriorated' since war - UN expert Monday 18 September 2023 14:30 , Eleanor Noyce The human rights situation in Russia has significantly deteriorated since it invaded Ukraine in February last year, a United Nations expert said on Monday, describing a systematic crackdown on civil society and calling for redress. The report by Special Rapporteur Mariana Katzarova alleges that Russian authorities have carried out mass arbitrary arrests of critics of the war and says those detained risk death due to the persistent use of torture and ill-treatment. It is the first time the 16-year-old U.N. Human Rights Council (HRC) has been mandated to examine the record of one of its so-called P5 members, which hold permanent seats on the Security Council. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said he could not comment for the time being because he had yet seen the report. Moscow has previously called criticism of its domestic rights record unfounded and denied targeting civilians in Ukraine, where it says it is carrying out a special military operation to destroy military infrastructure. (The expert) has documented the recent legislative restrictions that are being used to muzzle civil society and punish human rights activists and others for their anti-war stance, the report said in its conclusions. The often-violent enforcement of these laws and regulations has resulted in a systematic crackdown on civil society organisations that has closed civic space and independent media, it said. Since Russias invasion of Ukraine, Moscow has passed stronger laws to punish dissenters and perceived traitors. The report says 20,000 people have been detained between Feb. 2022 and June 2023 for taking part in protests and more than 600 criminal lawsuits were opened for so-called anti-war activity. The U.N. expert Katzarova, a former journalist from Bulgaria who led investigations during the two Chechen wars for Amnesty International, also referred to attempts by Russia to obstruct her mandate, saying such actions showed a lack of political will to uphold its human rights obligations. Moscow told the expert it did not recognise her work and said it would be automatically disregarded, the report said. A debate on the reports findings is expected at the HRCs ongoing session in Geneva on Thursday. European Union countries are set to seek a renewal of Katzarovas mandate. More than a dozen non-governmental organisations have written to diplomats in Geneva asking them to support the renewal, a letter showed. Ukraine warns Russia not to attack power plants Monday 18 September 2023 14:15 , Lydia Patrick Ukrainian president Zelensky said his troops would not be scared to retaliate if Moscow repeated strategies to freeze Ukrainian civillians by targeting power plants. Last winter saw millions of Ukrainians without power, heat and water as temperatures plummet below 0C. The leader revealed Kyiv will battle through at whatever cost as temperatures are set to drop in six weeks. In an interview with CBS he threatened: If you cut off our power, deprive us of electricity, deprive us of water, deprive us of gasoline, you need to know we have the right to do it Last winter Ukrainians were forced to survive harsh conditions without power as Moscow targeted power plants (Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) Four killed in Russian attacks on Ukraine - Ukrainian officials Monday 18 September 2023 14:13 , Eleanor Noyce Russia carried out new air strikes and shelling in Ukraine overnight and early on Monday, killing at least four people, Ukrainian officials said. A man aged 72 and an elderly woman were killed, and three others were wounded, in an overnight attack on the southern region of Kherson, regional governor Oleksandr Prokudin said. The general prosecutors office said a man riding a bicycle had been killed in Russian shelling near the eastern town of Toretsk, and that a woman had been killed in an air strike at around noon in the eastern city of Avdiivka. Odesa region governor Oleh Kiper said the Izmail district, home to Danube River ports that are used to export grain, had been targeted in a drone attack but reported no damage to port or grain infrastructure. Russia has continued its campaign of air strikes and shelling across Ukraine as Kyiv mounted a counteroffensive to try to push back Moscows forces following their invasion nearly 19 months ago. In the latest overnight Russian attacks, Ukraines air force said 18 out of 24 Russian drones had been shot down, and that 17 cruise missiles had been destroyed over the Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions. Moscow says Ukraine has increasingly attacked targets inside Russia. In the latest such strike, Russian forces shot down two Ukrainian drones over southwestern Crimea and a third over Belgorod region on Sunday, the Russian defence ministry said. Reuters was not able to immediately verify the reports. Russia did not comment on the latest attacks and has said it does not deliberately target civilians. Russia scrambled fighter to intercept U.S. patrol plane over Barents Sea Monday 18 September 2023 14:00 , Eleanor Noyce Russia scrambled a MiG-31 jet fighter on Monday to intercept a U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon patrol plane approaching its airspace over the Barents Sea, the Russian Defence Ministry said. No casualties in blast at government headquarters in Russian-held Donetsk - governor Monday 18 September 2023 13:50 , Eleanor Noyce The Moscow-installed governor of the Russian-held part of Ukraines Donetsk region, Denis Pushilin, confirmed on Monday a blast at the local government headquarters, but said that no one had been killed or wounded. Russias state news agency RIA reported earlier on Monday that a series of blasts had been heard at the headquarters of the Russian-installed local authorities in the city of Donetsk, in eastern Ukraine. The citys Russian-installed mayor said in a statement on Telegram that central Donetsk had come under fire. 'We mustnt give Putin a break Monday 18 September 2023 13:45 , Lydia Patrick Volodymyr Zelesnky says Kyiv will do whatever it takes to liberate territory and will push through freezing conditions set to arrive in six weeks. He defiantly spoke out in an interview last night with CBS, saying: We need to liberate our territory as much as possible and move forward, even if its less than [half a mile or] a hundred [yards] we must do it. (Ritzau Scanpix/AFP via Getty Ima) We cant lose time. Forget about the weather, and the like. In places that we cant get through in an armored vehicle - lets fly. If we cant fly lets send drones. We mustnt give Putin a break. EU braces for tussle over 12th sanctions package against Russia - Bloomberg News Monday 18 September 2023 13:40 , Eleanor Noyce The European Union is gearing up for a fight over what should be included in its 12th package of sanctions over Russias war in Ukraine, Bloomberg News reported on Monday. The new measures, which could be presented as early as next month, would likely include the EUs version of the upcoming G7 ban on purchases of Russian diamonds and possibly a long-awaited proposal to use the profits generated by frozen central bank assets to aid Kyiv, the report added citing people familiar with discussions. Moscow fires cruise missiles in sea drills between Russia and Alaska Monday 18 September 2023 13:31 , Eleanor Noyce Russia fired cruise missiles at mock targets in the seas separating it from Alaska on Monday in what it said was an exercise to protect its northern shipping route in the Arctic. The defence ministry said Vulcan, Granit and Onyx cruise missiles were fired over distances of hundreds of kilometres to strike targets simulating enemy ships in the Bering Sea. The exercise involved land-, ship- and submarine-launched missiles and included about 10,000 military personnel, as well as planes and helicopters, the ministry said. The drills took place on Russias Chukotka peninsula and in the Chukchi and Bering Seas, and were supervised by Admiral Nikolai Yevmenov, commander-in-chief of the Russian navy. Russia is keen to demonstrate its continued ability to project force in the Arctic and the far east despite the strains on its armed forces from the 18-month war in Ukraine. Moscow said last year it planned to spend almost $30 billion by 2035 on developing the northern sea route, which has become more viable as climate change has reduced sea ice in the Arctic. It runs across the top of Russia from Murmansk near the borders with Norway and Finland to the Bering Strait near Alaska. President Vladimir Putin highlighted the importance of the route in a speech to the BRICS group of countries last month, saying Russia was planning to construct new ports and fuel terminals and expand its icebreaker fleet. Blasts heard at government headquarters in Russian-held Donetsk - RIA correspondent Monday 18 September 2023 13:19 , Eleanor Noyce The Russian state news agency RIA reported on Monday that a series of blasts had been heard at the headquarters of the Russian-installed local authorities in the Russian-held city of Donetsk, in east Ukraine. The citys Russian-installed mayor said in a statement on Telegram that central Donetsk was under fire. Reuters could not immediately independently confirm the statement. Pope meets with new Russian ambassador in phase two of his Ukraine peace convoy Monday 18 September 2023 13:15 , Lydia Patrick Pope Francis will meet Russias new ambassador to the Vatican today, prompting beliefs that the Vaticans Ukraine peace envoy could soon undertake a second mission to Moscow. Soltanovsky replaced Ambassador Alexander Avdeev, whom Francis met with on 25 February, 2022 in an in-person visit to the embassy the day after Moscows forces invaded Ukraine. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that Moscow was ready to meet again with Francis Ukraine peace envoy, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, a veteran of the Catholic Churchs peace initiatives. The Vatican is continuing its efforts. The papal envoy will come back (to Russia) soon, Lavrov said at a roundtable discussion on Ukraine, as reported by AP on September 15. Pope-Francis (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) Russia urges the UNs highest court to throw out Genocide case Monday 18 September 2023 12:45 , Lydia Patrick Russia has called a Ukrainian case alleging that Moscow abused the Genocide Convention to justify its invasion last year an abuse of process, say AP. The leader of Moscows legal team at the International Court of Justice, Gennady Kuzmin, told the 16-judge panel that Ukraines case that seeks to halt the invasion is hopelessly flawed and at odds with the longstanding jurisprudence of this court, say AP. Kyivs case filed shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine argues that the attack was based on false claims of acts of genocide in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions of eastern Ukraine and alleges that Moscow was planning genocidal acts in Ukraine. View of the Peace Palace which houses World Court where Ukraines legal battle against Russia over allegations of genocide (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) Kyiv claimed that: Russia has turned the Genocide Convention on its head - making a false claim of genocide as a basis for actions on its part that constitute grave violations of the human rights of millions of people across Ukraine. Lawyers for Russia insist that the court does not have jurisdiction and that the Genocide Convention cannot be used to regulate use of force by nations. Ukraines legal team will respond on Tuesday and urge judges to press ahead to hearings on the substance of its claims. Ukraine brought the case to the Hague-based court based on the 1948 Genocide Convention, which both Moscow and Kyiv have ratified. In an interim ruling in March 2022, the court ordered Russia to halt hostilities in Ukraine, a binding legal ruling that Moscow has flouted as it presses ahead with its devastating attacks on Ukrainian towns and cities. 32 of Ukraines allies including Canada, Australia and every European Union member nation except Hungary will also make statements on Wednesday in support of Kyivs legal arguments. Ukraine and Russia pelt each other with 40,000 shells a day Monday 18 September 2023 12:15 , Lydia Patrick Kyiv and Moscow fire 40,000 shells from each side per day across the 1,000km front line, says President Zelensky. The Ukrainian Leader shared details of the explosive battlefield in an interview with CBS published yesterday. He also sent a message to Russia in the CBS interview, warning: Your sky is not as well protected as you think. He added: If you cut off our power, deprive us of electricity, deprive us of water, deprive us to gasoline, we have the right to do the same to you. (EPA) Ukraine to sue Poland, Hungary and Slovakia over food import bans Monday 18 September 2023 11:45 , Lydia Patrick Ukraine plans to sue Poland, Hungary and Slovakia over bans on Ukrainian agricultural products, according to Politico. The Ukrainian Trade Representative Taras Kackha told Politico on Sunday: It is important to prove that these actions are legally wrong. And thats why we will start legal proceedings tomorrow. Rebelling against the European Comission, the EU countries have decided to impose their own bans on Ukrainian grain after the Comission lifted its temporary restriction. Kachka told Politico. I think that Hungary here is making a political statement that it wants to block trade with Ukraine and as well disregard Brussels completely. And thats why I think that this is a very bold movement against both of us from Budapest. The EU countries say they have acted in the best interest of their farmers who are facing depressed prices. Ukraine government dismisses deputy defence ministers including Maliar Monday 18 September 2023 11:15 , Lydia Patrick The Ukrainian government said on Monday it had decided to dismiss six deputy defence ministers including Hanna Maliar, who has provided frequent updates on the latest fighting in the war with Russia. Reuters report the government havent given a reason for the decision, Ukraine appointed Rustem Umerov as new defence minister earlier this month. He posted on Facebook: (AFP or licensors) Chinese foreign minister visits Russia for security talks day after Kim Jong-un leaves Monday 18 September 2023 10:45 , Lydia Patrick Chinas foreign minister will be in Russia this week for security talks, arriving in Moscow just a day after North Koreas leader Kim Jong-un wrapped up his own visit to the country. Wang Yis visit comes as an increasingly isolated Russia seeks support from its international allies for its war against Ukraine. Running from Monday to Thursday, the visit will involve a strategic security consultation between China and Russia, the Chinese foreign ministry said. Wang Yi will arrive in Moscow just a day after North Koreas leader Kim Jong-un left (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) Chinas foreign minister will be in Russia this week for security talks, arriving in Moscow just a day after North Koreas leader Kim Jong-un wrapped up his own visit to the country. Wang Yis visit comes as an increasingly isolated Russia seeks support from its international allies for its war against Ukraine. Running from Monday to Thursday, the visit will involve a strategic security consultation between China and Russia, the Chinese foreign ministry said. Read the full story by Arpan Rai here Chinese foreign minister visits Russia day after Kim Jong-un leaves country Human Rights have significantly deteriorated in Russia, according to UN Monday 18 September 2023 10:15 , Lydia Patrick A United Nations expert said on Monday that the human rights in Russia have significantly deteriorated since it invaded Ukraine in February last year, describing a systematic crackdown on civil society organisations. The UN expert, as reported in Reuters said:Russian authorities have severely curtailed the freedoms of association, peaceful assembly and expression, both online and offline, and have fundamentally undermined the independence of the judiciary and the guarantees of fair trial. Ukraine are currently in a legal battle with Russia over genocide allegations (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) An array of administrative sanctions is being applied arbitrarily against dissenters and force used against peaceful protesters. The report by the Special Rapporteur is the first time that the 16-year-old Human Rights Council (HRC) has been mandated to examine the rights record of one of its so-called P5 members, which hold permanent seats on the Security Council. There was no immediate comment from the Russian diplomatic mission in Geneva, say Reuters. Whats next? A Third World War?' Monday 18 September 2023 09:45 , Lydia Patrick Ukranian president Volodymyr Zelensky urged for international collaboration in an explosive CBS interview, as he says they are fighting World War I but with drones. Zelensky told CBS: I dont have an answer. The whole world [has to] decide whether we want to stop Putin, or whether we want to start the beginning of a world war. Zelensky says he is thankful to the US but doesnt know how much more money war efforts will require (AFP via Getty Images) We cant change Putin. Russian society has [lost] the respect of the world. They elected him, and re-elected him and raised a second Hitler. He also said he was grateful for the financial aid of $70 billion provided by the United States but asks if they will continue their support to other Baltic states - which will be Putins next targets, according to the President. Two people killed in overnight Russian attacks in South Ukraine, says Kyiv Monday 18 September 2023 09:15 , Lydia Patrick Russia carried out a new wave of overnight air strikes and shelling in Ukraine, killing two people in the southern region of Kherson, say Ukrainian officials. Kherson region governor Oleksandr Prokudin said a man aged 72 and an elderly woman had been killed in a Russian attack on the region last night, and three others were wounded - as reported by Reuters. He said four others were hurt in a morning drone attack on the town of Beryl, adding: The occupiers deliberately attacked a crowded place, dropping explosives near the local bus station. A previos attack in Kherson which destroyed a family home (Ihor Krylenko/Telegram) Odes region governor Ole Kipper said the Izmail district, home to Danube River ports that are used to export grain, had been targeted in a drone attack. Ukraines air force said 18 out of 24 Russian drones were shot down, and that 17 cruise missiles were downed overnight over the Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions. The deputy governor of the Khmelnytskyi region said the blast wave had damaged the roofs and windows of several homes, and debris fell on the territory of an unspecified production facility and damaged a railway track. Reuters was not able to immediately verify the reports. Russia did not comment on the latest attacks and has said it does not deliberately target civilians. Bulgaria inspect mystery drone in Black Sea resort Monday 18 September 2023 08:45 , Lydia Patrick Bulgarias defence minsister has sent a special unit to investigate and deactivate a drone carrying explosives which landed on Sunday evening in the town of Tyulenovo. Following inspection the team from NATO-member Bulgaria will decide how to dispose of it, the defence ministry said in a statement adding that the team was sent upon the request of the regional government, reportReuters. One of the Black Sea resorts near Varna 55 miles from Tyulenovo (Getty Images) The town of Tyulnevo is located 70km from the Romanian border and across the sea from Crimea. Bulgarian media reported that a drone carrying explosives landed late on Sunday evening. Nova.bg web site reported quoting witnesses that the drone was between 3 and 3.5 metres long. It said that the drone had a container with explosives attached to it. Ukraines legal battle against Russian over genocide allegations continues Monday 18 September 2023 08:15 , Lydia Patrick Ukraines legal battle against Russia over allegations of genocide used by Moscow to justify its 2022 invasion resumes today at the United Nations. Hearings at the International Court of Justice, also known as the Word Court, will see Ukraine supported by a record 32 other nations. 32 of Ukraines allies including Canada, Australia and every European Union member nation except Hungary will also make statements in support of Kyivs legal arguments (Col. Gen. Syrskyi via REUTERS) Kyiv launched the case shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine, arguing that the attack was based on false claims of acts of genocide in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions of eastern Ukraine and alleging that Moscow was planning genocidal acts in Ukraine. It wants the court to order Russia to halt its invasion and pay reparations.Filing its case last year, Ukraine said that Russia has turned the Genocide Convention on its head making a false claim of genocide as a basis for actions on its part that constitute grave violations of the human rights of millions of people across Ukraine. Ukraine brought the case to the Hague-based court based on the 1948 Genocide Convention, which both Moscow and Kyiv have ratified. In an interim ruling in March 2022, the court ordered Russia to halt hostilities in Ukraine, a binding legal ruling that Moscow has flouted as it presses ahead with its devastating attacks on Ukrainian towns and cities. Hearings this week are expected to see lawyers for Russia argue that the court does not have jurisdiction to hear the case, while Ukraine will call on judges to press ahead to hearings on the substance of its claims. The courts panel of international judges will likely take weeks or months to reach a decision on whether or not the case can proceed. If it does, a final ruling is likely years away. The ICC has issued a war crimes arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of responsibility for the abduction of Ukrainian children. Kim Jong Un returns home with Russian gifts Monday 18 September 2023 07:45 , Lydia Patrick North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has returned after his Russian summit with a selection of souvenirs- including a rifle, a cosmonauts glove a fur hat and military drones. Kim Jong-un received a Russian-made rifle of the highest quality, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. In return Jong-un gifted Putin with a rifle made by North Korean craftsmen. Putin also presented a glove from a spacesuit worn in space, Russias TASS news agency said. Oleg Kozhemyako, the governor of the Primorsky region, presented Kim with a set of modern, lightweight body armour designed for assault operations that protects the chest, shoulders, throat and groin, Russia media said. Kim Jong-Un heads home after summit with Putin (AP) Kim was also presented with five one-way attack drones and a Geranium-25 reconnaissance drone, which is widely used in the war in Ukraine, TASS said. The drones alone are a violation of UN sanactions. The items will be stored in North Koreas friendship museum - an exhibition dating back to 1978 where the country store items given to them from other countries. The collection includes crystalware sent from former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, tea cup set from French President Francois Mitterrand, a basketball signed by Michael Jordan given by former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright on her visit in 2000 and a rifle given by the late Cuban leader Fidel Castro. Nato chief warns Putin eyes long war Monday 18 September 2023 07:13 , Arpan Rai Natos secretary general has warned Ukraine it is in for a long war with Russia while a Kyiv chief has called for the swift provision of weapons to halt Vladimir Putins forces. Ukraine has been continuing its counteroffensive, claiming to have taken the eastern village of Klishchiivka. Kyiv soldiers reportedly continued their counteroffensive on Sunday, using drones to disrupt air traffic in Moscow and causing a fire at an oil depot in the southwest of Russia. Ukraine has not yet commented on the attacks. In addition, an anti-Moscow guerilla group claims to have destroyed two Russian vehicles in Kherson. Nato chief warns Putin eyes long war as Ukraine claims eastern village Recapture of Klishchiivka a springboard for more action, says Kyiv Monday 18 September 2023 07:06 , Arpan Rai Ukraines military claims its latest recapture of a key village in Bakhmut will act as a springboard for further offensive actions against Russias continuing invasion. Ukraine scored another victory recently when it recently recaptured village Klishchiivka that lies in the southern flank of Bakhmut, as its forces fought off Russian attempts to get back into the area. The war-torn countrys forces had last week also recaptured Andriivka, another village a few kilometres to the south of Klishchiivka, after earlier criticism alleged Ukraines counteroffensive against Russian forces had slowed. Both settlements have been reduced to ghost towns and destroyed in the months of fighting for Bakhmut that had fallen into Russian hands in May this year. Arpan Rai reports here: Why recapture of key village near Bakhmut is critical for Ukraine From Sunday: Poland imposes EU ban on all Russian-registered passenger cars Monday 18 September 2023 07:00 , William Mata Poland began to enforce a European Union ban Sunday on all Russian-registered passenger cars seeking to enter the country the latest in a series of sanctions on Russia in punishment for its war against Ukraine. Under the EUs decision, motor vehicles registered in the Russian Federation are no longer allowed to enter the territory of the 27-member bloc. A car registered in Russia has no right to enter Poland, Polish Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski said Saturday, announcing the ban that took effect hours later at midnight. Read more about the issue in Vanessa Geras article here. (Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) New explosions at Sevastopol as Ukraine launches fresh drone strikes on Crimea Monday 18 September 2023 06:28 , Arpan Rai Fresh explosions struck Sevastopol and smoke was seen rising from a prominent landmark just kilometres away from the Crimean city as Ukrainian forces announced they were carrying out a joint intelligence operation in the region illegally annexed by Russia in 2014. Pro-Russian Telegram channel ChP Sevastopol reported explosions in the area of Cape Fiolent late on Sunday night, while another Telegram channel reporting on Crimea shared visuals of an explosion and smoke arising from the same area. The location, on the Crimean peninsulas southern coast about 16km away from Sevastopol, has a marine radio engineering unit and a radio engineering station with a dozen radar antennas, an unnamed intelligence source told Ukraines Suspilne public broadcaster. Arpan Rai reports here: New explosions at Sevastopol as Ukraine launches fresh airstrikes on Crimea Update: US sees some limited signs of opening on military talks with China Monday 18 September 2023 05:00 , William Mata The United States saw some "limited" signs that China may allow some communications between the countries' militaries during 12 hours of talks between senior diplomats in Malta this weekend, according to a senior Biden administration official. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan also raised concerns over China's assistance to Russia and recent actions by Beijing in the Taiwan Strait during his talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, the official said. Concerns: Jake Sullivan (AP) Video shows anti-aircraft missile systems being destroyed' Monday 18 September 2023 04:00 , William Mata Ukraines department for defence has released a video which it claims shows two Russian Buk-M3 anti-aircraft missile systems being destroyed. And right after, the headquarters of the brigade and division of the Airborne Forces of the occupiers, which they were covering, were also annihilated, the statement on Twitter added. Svitlodarsk. Two Buk-M3 anti-aircraft missile systems are being destroyed. And right after, the headquarters of the brigade and division of the Airborne Forces of the occupiers, which they were covering, were also annihilated. pic.twitter.com/pOT6bIttpb Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) September 17, 2023 From Sunday: UKs top agenda at UN General Assembly: Ukraine, AI and sustainable development Monday 18 September 2023 03:00 , William Mata The world must recommit to the United Nations sustainable development goals if the ambitious targets are to be met, UK ministers and diplomats will urge at a UN summit next week. Prime ministerRishi Sunak has been accused of snubbing the gathering in New York, blaming diary pressures for his absence and instead sending a team headed by his deputy Oliver Dowden. He is not the only world leader expected to miss the summit, which is set to see discussions on the war in Ukraine, artificial intelligence and the threat of climate change. Dominic McGraths full story is here. PRIMGHAR, Iowa A Rock Rapids, Iowa, man who fatally shot his mother was sentenced Monday to life in prison without parole. With the sentence mandated by state law, there was no wondering what sentence District Judge John Sandy would hand down to Nathaniel Kassel, who on Sept. 7 had entered a no contest plea in O'Brien County District Court to one count of first-degree murder. He admitted no guilt, but agreed that a jury could find him guilty of the March 22, shooting death of 62-year-old Jody Duskin and voluntarily gave up his right to a jury trial. Sandy entered a judgment of guilty into the court record. Kassel, 42, also was ordered to pay $150,000 restitution to his mother's estate. Duskin's body was found in her Sheldon, Iowa, home on March 23 with a gunshot wound to her head. According to court documents, Kassel had sent a message to family members a day earlier, telling them, "I'm killing Jody." Hours later, he was overheard having a phone conversation in which he said he "made a mistake and hurt someone." On March 23, Kassel informed others Duskin was sick and could not make it to work. Another family member found Duskin's body that afternoon. Police found a .45-caliber shell casing and bullet at the scene. Kessel was arrested in South Dakota two days later in possession of Duskin's car and two guns believed to be stolen from her home. A complaint filed in the case said Kassel was living with Duskin, but listed a Rock Rapids home for his address. Kassel had initially faced an additional charge of operating a motor vehicle without owner's consent, but it was later dismissed. SIOUX CITY A Sioux City man has pleaded guilty of having sex with a 14-year-old girl. Marc Estrada, 34, entered his plea Friday to two counts of third-degree sexual abuse and one count of sexual exploitation of a minor. As part of a plea agreement, a charge of distribution of a controlled substance to a person under age 18 will be dismissed. No sentencing agreement was contained in the plea deal. Sentencing was scheduled for Nov. 1 in Woodbury County District Court. Police were made aware of a sexual relationship between Estrada and the girl in May, when the girl said she met Estrada May 2 at a Sioux City home. She said the two had sex three or four times in his car. Estrada admitted in his plea agreement he had sex with the girl on May 3 and May 5. According to court documents, Estrada told police he had sex with the girl in hotel rooms in Council Bluffs and Sioux City. PRIMGHAR, Iowa -- A Sheldon, Iowa, woman has been placed on probation for providing false claims to an insurer in connection with an insurance claim. Meranda Millerguse, 32, pleaded guilty Monday in O'Brien County District Court to one count of insurance fraud -- presenting false information, a Class D felony. Following terms of a plea agreement, District Judge John Sandy ordered Millerguse receive a deferred judgment and placed her on two years' probation. She also must pay a $1,025 civil penalty. According to court documents, Millerguse in September 2022 made false statements about existing auto insurance coverage in an attempt to receive insurance benefits. The Iowa Insurance Division's Fraud Bureau began an investigation in November and filed a complaint Jan. 17. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel, former Bayan Muna party-list Representatives Neri Colmenares, Carlos Zarate, and Ferdinand Gaite have asked the Supreme Court to declare the entire Republic Act 11954 or the Maharlika Investment Fund Act of 2023 unconstitutional. They also want the laws implementation stopped upon the filing of the petition and set the case for oral arguments. Petitioners argued that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s exercise of the power to certify the Maharlika bill as urgent in the House and Senate was void for failure to meet constitutional requirements. Maharlika Investment Fund Act of 2023 is void for failing to comply with the requirements under Article VI, Section 26 (2) of the 1987 Constitution, which requires three readings on three separate days prior to a bill becoming a law, they said in their petition. They noted there exists no public calamity or public emergency. Should we allow the certification of a bill on the ground that it is certified to address poverty through the creation of additional jobs, then hundreds of economic bills or bills with similar intentions can be certified as urgent and simply shortcut legislative proceedings. The three separate reading in three separate days rule will now be an exception, they pointed out. They asserted that the House of Representatives and the Senate violated the no amendment clause of Section 26 (2), Article VI of the Constitution. House Bill 6608 was approved on third and final reading on December 15, 2022 but petitioners said the House amended the bill on May 31, 2023 not on the basis of a bicameral conference report but on the mere motion of Rep. Mikaela Suansing. On the other hand, they said the Senate amended an already approved bill and submitted to the President a version of Senate Bill 2020 which is different from the Senate approved bill. Petitioners noted the Senate records would disclose that substantial and lengthy amendments to SB 2020 were introduced and approved by the Senate, but were not incorporated in the printed text sent to and signed by the President. This being so, that bill embodied in the Enrolled Bill, was not duly enacted and therefore such did not become law as R.A. 11954, they added. They also argued that the establishment of the Maharlika Investment Fund, as a government owned or controlled corporation, failed to satisfy the test of economic viability as mandated under Section 16 of Article XII of the 1987 Constitution. The law, they said, also violates the independence of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas as a central monetary authority as provided under Section 20, Article XII of the Constitution. More importantly, the supposedly independent Monetary Board has to curry favor from the President and ask for his approval should they believe that their fiscal, as well as the economic conditions, merit the reduction of their contribution. The Monetary Board, therefore, despite its power to determine its policies, is now subjected by the law, to the discretion of the President, petitioners said. Reacting to this development, Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra said this was expected in view of the public interest generated by the creation of the Maharlika fund. The OSG has been keenly following the public debates about the fund to determine what legal issues of transcendental importance, if any, may be raised before the Supreme Court, he said. A Sioux City native has been named deputy executive director for the American Civil Liberties Union of South Dakota, North Dakota and Wyoming. Libby Skarin joined the ACLU in 2014 as the policy director for the ACLU of South Dakota, the ACLU said in a press release Monday. In 2020, Skarin was promoted to the chapters campaigns director where she was responsible for developing and implementing effective, non-partisan issue campaign strategies and initiatives throughout South Dakota, North Dakota and Wyoming. Libby is a dynamic, inspiring and experienced leader with a history of building successful programs and leading nonpartisan political efforts for policy reform, Heather Smith, executive director of the ACLU of South Dakota, North Dakota and Wyoming, said in a statement. Libby is a fierce advocate for constitutional rights and social justice. Her passion for the equity of all people and commitment to the protection of civil rights and civil liberties will serve her well in this role. Before she joined the ACLU, Skarin worked as an assistant attorney general for the state of Iowa and worked with the Sioux City Human Rights Commission; she also worked with Iowa Legal Aid. Skarin, who attended East High School in Sioux City, is a graduate of the University of Iowa and the University of Iowa College of Law. SIOUX CITY How much would you pay for a festive quilt, a box of Autumnal ciders, or even the fossil of a tortoise? All of these items and many more will be up for bid during the Dorothy Pecaut's 19th annual Nature Calls fundraiser, taking place from 6 - 10 p.m. Saturday at the Sioux City Convention Center, 801 Fourth St. "We always have amazing auction items from nature-inspired art pieces to gift baskets to wonderful stay-cation weekend packages," Woodbury County Conservation Board education director Theresa Kruid said. "You never know what will turn up for bid." 2023 Nature Calls Homemade jams, jellies and salsas are always Nature Calls auction items, according to the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center's Theresa Kruid. Well, that turtle fossil actually did throw us for a loop. "Oh, that was donated by Pat and Catherine Saulsbury," Kruid explained. "It is definitely rare and, in a way, quite beautiful." In addition to the charity auction, there will be nature market vendors, raffles, as well as a wine tasting and a sampling of more than 70 different kinds of craft beers, including some from local brewers like Jackson Street Brewing, Marto Brewing Co. and Wise I Brewing. There will also be plenty of nonalcoholic beverages and hors d'oeuvres available. Even though Nature Calls is the nature center's biggest fundraiser, guests are encouraged to come to the event dressed in "blue jeans casual" attire. "I think that is what sets us apart from other nonprofit fundraisers," Kruid said. "There is nothing stuffy about Nature Calls. it is just an evening of fun." 2023 Nature Calls Cider is a sign that fall is approaching. The same can be said for Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center's 19th annual Nature Calls fundraiser. The pop Proceeds will go towards funding special programming like the Nature Center's special programming like its indoor exhibits, the raptor house and the popular Discovery Forest Nature Playscape. "It also goes towards our summer internship program," Kruid said. "Our interns plays a big part in our summer camp program for kids." Even with so many Nature Calls under her belt, Kruid admitted each event has had its fair share of challenges. "We start our planning in January and it continues right up until the last minute," she said. 2023 Nature Calls Theresa Kruid, Education Director of the Woodbury County Conservation Board's Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center, displays some on the quilts that w Indeed, Kruid credited her board members for coming up with new and creative ideas for the fundraiser. "They know what the Nature Center means to them as well to the community," Kruid said. This year, only advance tickets will be available. They may be purchased at the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center, 4500 Sioux River Road, online at woodburyparks.org or by calling 712-258-0838. "I know people look forward to the event because of the relaxed atmosphere and unique combination of artists, beer and auction items," Kruid said. "They especially like that our goal is to raise funds for conservation education programs and exhibits." 2023 Nature Calls Theresa Kruid, Education Director of the Woodbury County Conservation Board's Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center, is shown amid some on the items th 2023 Nature Calls A fossil of a tortoise will be auctioned as a part of this year's Nature Calls fundraiser to be form 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday at the Sioux City C And who knows? You might take home a fossilized tortoise. "It can be a unique for yourself and someone who has an appreciation for nature," Kruid said. Register for more free articles. Sign up for our newsletter to keep reading. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! Already a Subscriber? Already a Subscriber? Sign in Terms of Service Privacy Policy Climate change is destroying reefs, but the effects are more than ecological Posted on 18 September 2023 by Guest Author This article by Michele Currie Navakas Professor of English, Miami University is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Hurricane Idalia made landfall on Floridas Gulf Coast on Aug. 30, 2023, bringing surging seas and winds over 100 mph. Meanwhile, another climate emergency has been unfolding along Floridas coast this summer: a marine heat wave bleaching corals throughout the worlds third-largest barrier reef. Similarly, ocean temperatures in many parts of the Atlantic and Pacific are at record highs, with reefs from Colombia to Australia showing signs of stress in recent years. Scientists warn that the world may be witnessing the start of a global coral-bleaching event, which would be the fourth on record and while corals can survive bleaching, they wont if the waters stay warm for too long. Large-scale reef destruction tends to be measured in biological and economic terms. Reefs support about 25% of all marine species, protect human lives and property by buffering shorelines and bolster the worldwide economy through fishing and tourism. But corals loss also takes an enormous spiritual, psychological and cultural toll one of the main topics of my research and recent book, Coral Lives. Centuries of writing, painting, storytelling and rituals show that coral has given meaning to human lives for nearly as long as weve been around to marvel at it. Protective powers Mondadori Portfolio/Hulton Fine Art Collection via Getty Images From the Middle Ages until the 19th century, anxious new parents across Europe and North America clasped red coral necklaces and bracelets to their childrens bodies and gave them red coral to hold and even teethe on because coral symbolized physical and spiritual protection. Early Christian art from the medieval and Renaissance periods often features the infant Jesus in red coral, which scholars suggest may also be because its color symbolized the blood of Christ. Coral encircles the necks and wrists of babies and children in more secular portraits, too, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries. Often a child holds the coral and bells, a combination toy and teething aid: Children would alternately shake it as a rattle and chew on the red coral shaft to soothe sore gums. The item was cherished by the families of presidents and poets alike, from George Washington to Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, who even wrote about it. Coral and bells were such a popular christening present that shops could barely keep it in stock. Sepia Times/Universal Images Group via Getty Images For these families and countless others across centuries, coral was far more than ornamental. By giving a child coral, parents were protecting what was most precious to them: their childs life. The birth of coral Belief in the protective powers of coral dates to at least the classical period. According to the first-century Roman poet Ovid, coral carried petrifying powers because it originally emerged from the touch of Medusa, the snake-haired Gorgon whose stare could turn others to stone. In his epic poem Metamorphoses, Ovid describes the hero Perseus severing Medusas head and laying it on a bed of seaweed that then hardened into coral. By the medieval period, this story gave rise to popular beliefs that wearing coral could ward off the evil eye. Coral was also believed to have curative properties. In the Historia naturalis, an encyclopedia of the natural world, Roman author Pliny the Elder wrote of the sacred and medicinal qualities of coral. The material could remedy a variety of ailments when ingested, he claimed which also explains why people once thought it was healthy for children to chew on coral. Modern medicine, of course, argues against these ideas. But during historical periods when child mortality rates may have been almost 50%, coral calmed anxious parents fears. BotMultichillT/Wikimedia Commons/Museum of Fine Arts Boston To this day, in some parts of the world, coral continues to provide a sense of control over situations that are largely out of our hands. In southern Italy, people give one another the cornicello for good luck: a small, horn-shaped charm frequently made of red coral. Some rosaries, too, are still made of red coral beads, just as they were in the Middle Ages. Community bonds Beyond protection, coral can also symbolize belonging. Throughout the African diaspora during the 18th and 19th centuries, free and enslaved women in many communities wore red coral jewelry, particularly on special occasions, to commemorate a shared past and create new bonds. Groups of women in Jamaica and other parts of the Caribbean, for example, wore coral necklaces, earrings and bracelets during Jonkonnu, a Christmas holiday masquerade of West African origins that incorporates traditional music and dance. Slavery Images: A Visual Record of the African Slave Trade and Slave Life in the Early African Diaspora, CC BY-NC As historian Steeve O. Buckridge explains, these women used clothing and jewelry to communicate their identities nonverbally. Wearing coral was a way to preserve links to the African cultures from which slavery had severed these women. In many cultures, red coral beads were and in some cases still are objects of spiritual, economic and cultural significance. In fact, coral was so valuable that it came to play a violent role in history. In coastal areas of Western Africa, coral became currency in the transatlantic slave trade: Slave traders exchanged coral for people. But when diasporic women wore coral, it became part of their choice to create a different present and future. As scholar Elizabeth Maddock Dillon has also observed, each piece of their elaborate Jonkonnu costumes announced not only splendor and beauty but a form of social belonging within different kinship groups of their own devising. Coral simultaneously signified slavery and hope for new possibilities. Forging the future After the Civil War, Black communities in the United States embraced coral for another reason. During Reconstruction, as these communities struggled to create a more just country, writers, religious leaders and activists turned to reefs as an inspiring model. Even massive coral reefs are made up of millions of microscopic animals called polyps, which many people in the 19th century understood as laborers working together to build the reef. According to African American poet and civil rights advocate Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, reefs expand by sustaining others, rather than devaluing or displacing them. In her 1871 poem The Little Builders, Harper chose reefs as an analogy for how listeners and readers, Black and white, should work to build the social and financial bonds equality would depend on. Internet Archive Book Images/Flickr But Harper knew that outcome was by no means certain. Thats why the coral analogy worked so well. As Charles Darwin explained in 1842 in a famous treatise on coral, reefs are formed by so many relationships among different individual organisms across vast periods of time that their future form and shape can only be unpredictable. As my book shows, in that unpredictability Black writers like Harper found hope. To them it meant that the actions of one single and seemingly insignificant individual might help transform an entire system. Grief and preservation Corals biological uniqueness and central role in sustaining other forms of life, including humans, are reasons enough to preserve it. And scientists are making extraordinary efforts, such as relocating threatened species to dry tanks on land and developing tools to predict marine heat waves months in advance. But for centuries, coral has also shaped thoughts about difficult human problems, from love and loss to social injustice. Reefs have provided knowledge, stories, hopes and histories in many cultures, far beyond the handful mentioned here. As we lose coral, then, we are also losing a material that has given us vital ways to understand and act within an increasingly chaotic world. Care and Feeding is Slates parenting advice column. Have a question for Care and Feeding? Submit it here. Dear Care and Feeding, I have a potential job offer that will take me out of state for training, if all goes according to plan. This would be for about four weeks time and would be the first time I have left my children for so long. I have largely functioned as a stay-at-home mom, although I am a licensed realtor and try to take clients here and there. We have three boys: a teen from a previous relationship, a third grader, and a toddler. During this time away, my partner had planned to take leave to hold down the fort until I returned. I had been looking forward to him getting a taste of what full-time parenting is like, but he just told me he spoke with his mother to take time off from her job so she can help with the kids and cook. This made me upset for numerous reasons. One, I feel he should have told me first. Two, I have some boundary issues with her where I feel she hasnt respected my rules for my children. (Backstory: I told her not to take nude photos/videos of the middle child as an infant and that was disregarded.) Three, I feel he can cook well enough and it should be his turn to do this parenting thing full-time. Advertisement Advertisement His job requires him to leave for extended periods, and I thought this would be a way for him to really understand what my daily life is like. He says Im just trying to make things harder for him out of spite, because if he has the extra help why not use it? He has never had the children on his own for more than a few hours on very few occasions. I feel as if hes taking the easy way out and I dont necessarily trust his mother alone with the children. I dont question her ethics or intentions, but if it comes to light that she crosses a boundary with my toddler I told him Id never allow her to babysit again. Thoughts? Seeking Solidarity Dear Solidarity, Advertisement Advertisement It seems to me that there are two issues here. The first is your resentment that your husband isnt getting a window into your world for these four weeks. I can understand your disappointment; being a stay-at-home mom is invisible, devalued hard work. I imagine most SAHMs would fantasize about coming home after a month away, to their husband saying to them, Wow, I dont know how you do it! I would have had that same fantasy. But the reality, of course, is that even if he were holding down the fort, he might have let certain things go that you wouldnt have, he might have made the kids carry more weight than you, or any number of possibilitiesit simply might not have been the comeuppance that you have been imagining. So, I think the first step is to let go of that fantasy, because it was tenuous at best. Additionally, when you first made the plans, did you express your hope that hed get a glimpse into your life during this month? If you didnt, its not fair to be mad at him that he found a workaround solution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The second issue is your vexation about your mother-in-laws conduct. Does your husband know that your frustration about the photos was grave enough that you would blacklist her from helping during a tough month? Again, if he knew and asked her anyway, thats an issue; but if he didnt know, you cant be mad at him for not reading your mind. Explain your reservations and find ways that you and he can put some parameters in place that you both feel comfortable withincluding consequences if she disregards your instructions while youre away. I think the cat is already out of the bag on the arrangements, so to speak, so you need to work together to find a way that you can be at peace with the situation. Advertisement Advertisement Overall, your letter reads like someone who feels taken for grantedwho maybe doesnt feel like she and her husband are operating as a team. I think this month away might be shining a light on some more systematic challenges within your relationship. Working on your partnership and communication with a marriage counselor can help you find your way back to a better equilibrium. I hope youll consider it. Want Advice on Parenting, Kids, or Family Life? Submit your questions to Care and Feeding here. Its anonymous! (Questions may be edited for publication.) Dear Care and Feeding, My husbands brother-in-law died about a year ago, so my husband and I have been helping with his sisters kidsMatt (9) and Sarah (7)while his sister goes to work. Currently, the kids stay with us for two hours after school for three days a week. Our daughter is 8 years old and gets along swimmingly with all the cousins, especially Sarah, whos partially Deaf. My sisters new position requires more travel; she needs to spend around four days a month in Seattle (we live in the Northeast). Her first trip is coming up soon. Shell be away for four nights. This is the first time shes been away from the kids for more than maybe 10 hours since their dad died. Both kids are very nervous about the upcoming trip, especially Sarah. Advertisement Her biggest fear is that we wont know how to take care of her disability. Weve looked after her plenty of times before, just not overnight, but its not like she has a special overnight routine or anythingshe just needs to charge her hearing aids. She can hear with her hearing aids well enough to carry on a conversation; if she isnt using her hearing aids she likes to use ASL, which Matt and I both know. My guess is that shes generally nervous and doesnt know why so shes attributing it to her disability. Shes also just generally worried about missing her mom and that if something happens (like she has a nightmare or otherwise gets very scared/sad) it might be difficult to get in touch with her mom. Matt hasnt been as vocal about being uncomfortable about his moms trip but has also said he doesnt want her to go. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How can we help the kids get ready? I know once their mom leaves and the kids are with us, itll be fine. The trip is during the week, so their day wont change for the most part. Theyll just stay at our house instead of going to their home after school. My sister-in-law is really busy at work and isnt being very helpful in dealing with the kids anxiety about her trip, and neither my husband nor I have much experience in this sort of thing since our daughter loves new experiences and doesnt have much anxiety about staying with other people she knows. Preparations Dear Preparations, Your niece and nephews reactions dont really surprise me. Their fathers death is still pretty recent, and I would imagine that, even if they arent fully aware of it, the idea of mom being out of sightand thus unaccounted for at all the normal momentscould be the source of some of their discomfort. Advertisement Another thing to note is that even if Sarah doesnt have explicit needs related to her disability, a change in her routine could still make her uncomfortable. As I wrote in a previous column, kids with disabilities often get accommodations from their family members that even those relatives might not be fully aware of. When put in an unfamiliar situation, like an overnight visit, these under the radar accommodations will be absent, putting Sarah in a position to have to ask for things that were previously automatically available, and that can be uncomfortable. Or, they may catch her unaware. So, even though your home and family are familiar, the situation isnt, and that can be complicated when you live with a disability. Advertisement Advertisement Make a plan with the kids, listing the things that concern them and a correlating response or solution. Wake up from a nightmare? Well call Moms hotel room phone so shes sure to wake up. Missing mom? Lets plan a phone date each night, or keep a journal of how the week went to share with her when she returns. Making a plan can make the kids feel more in control of the situation, especially if they help craft the plan. If there is time between now and the first trip, you can also have a one-night sleepover as a trial run and get some unknowns out of the way beforehand. Advertisement Youre right that this will likely get better after the first day and with each passing trip. I hope you all can enjoy this special time of being together as an extended family. Im sure it will be something the kids (yours included) will appreciate even into adulthood. Advertisement Catch Up on Care and Feeding If you missed Sundays column, read it here. Discuss this column in the Slate Parenting Facebook group! Dear Care and Feeding, My husband is from Kyrgyzstan, and for as far back as any of them can remember, the family has been involved in horse ranching. In fact, there was a significant argument between my husband and his father when he wanted to get a desk job in the city and not be outside raising livestock. Advertisement Advertisement Were considering having a child, and my husband threw a cultural curveball at me. Hes very keen on our childs first meal being mares milk. Its apparently a cultural tradition that spans back centuries. At least according to some of the reading Ive done, that is not the best of ideas; even for adults with fully developed digestive systems, it can cause diarrhea and other digestive issues. Im quite frankly not interested, and either breastfeeding with human milk or formula is definitely the way Id want to go. But hes very serious about this, about how it establishes some kind of mystical bond between people and horses and its important for his people. I do want to be culturally sensitive, but this is a bridge too far. How do I deal with this irreconcilable divide? It seems such a petty, silly little thing too. Id hate to blow up an otherwise great relationship over something that is so minor. Cultural Minefield Dear Minefield, Advertisement Advertisement Is this an irreconcilable divide? One meal seems reconcilable in the grand scheme of things parents disagree on, at least to me. Full disclosure, I did a quick Google search and I didnt immediately see anything about feeding mares milk to babies, or a cultural tradition about that. But I did learn that mares milk is allegedly very similar to cows and can be a substitute for cows milk for kids. Advertisement The first step is obviously to talk to a pediatricianspecifically, one who has familiarity with and respect for integrating traditional practices into modern life. If the pediatrician can tell you that a one-time ingestion of mares milk will have no lasting impacts on your baby, then it seems like a rather innocuous concession for you to make. If, on the other hand, the doctor suggests its not a good idea for a newborn, perhaps introducing it when the baby is more developed can be a compromise you and your husband can agree to. Advertisement If the doctor says either of those scenarios is fine, but it is still a no-fly zone for you, then you and your husband are going to have to have a serious talk about whether you both want to figure out a different practice to substitute for the first meal (mares milk bath? A horse talisman?). I would just make sure that you discuss your perspectives as simply your opinions without making blanket statements that invalidate the whole idea (such as Thats gross). In general, its really special when we can honor and retain cultural practices that have been passed through generations, so any effort you can make in that direction, within reason, feels like a loving and respectful way to proceed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dear Care and Feeding, Advertisement My older child Jessica started kindergarten a few days ago. She did preschool previously and always has been a social kid with friends. She didnt know anyone in her kindergarten class and told me that she made friends with some other girls who knew each other from before. However, it sounds like they are not that nice to her and say things like, Dont talk to us. I recognize that its only been a few days, but I generally dont know what to do with these sorts of situations. Tell her that everyone has an off day but if people are rude over and over to move on to new people? Encourage her to try to meet the other kids in the class? I told her she can always talk to us about anything, but I remember being a kid and having my feelings hurt by other kids, and I dont want that for her. I am wondering how to navigate these kinds of social situations and stop projecting my own insecurities onto her. Sad Mom Dear Sad Mom, Advertisement Yes, thats what you should tell her. People are allowed to play with whoever they want, and although we ideally want everyone to be inclusive, it can also be OK to tell someone no. We just want it to be said in a kind way. I would have a conversation along the lines that you laid out. Talk about the difference between feeling disappointed and having your feelings hurtnot only might this help her navigate her new relationships, but it also builds her socioemotional vocabulary, which is a really good practice at this age. Advertisement Storybooks can help provide a way to explore these concepts together. This list has some really great books about friendship on it; The Not So Friendly Friend and The Recess Queen might also be good options to check out. Advertisement Advertisement Finally, drop a quick email to the kindergarten teacher about what youre hearing and ask her to keep an ear out. She may be able to help facilitate more appropriate interactions between the girls or help your daughter meet other kids in the classroom. Allison More Advice From Slate We recently held an early birthday party for our toddler. We are quiet people and typically avoid throwing big parties, but my partner is leaving for the next year for work and we wanted an opportunity to visit with friends and family before their departure. I was blunt on the invitation: no gifts. We have a variety of reasons for this request. Late last week, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shocked people who follow American conservatism after a spokesperson issued a statement distancing the institution from Tim Ballard, the founder of Operation Underground Railroad and subject of the breakout summer hit film Sound of Freedom. Ballard had betrayed his friendship with a prominent LDS leader, the statement to Vice declared, and his fundraising activities were deemed morally unacceptable. It was a rare and stunning rebuke for a church that rarely speaks out about individual members. It was also a blow to Ballard, a rising star rumored to be eyeing the Utah Senate seat that is opening up due to Mitt Romneys decision to retire. Then, on Monday, Vice revealed that Ballards resignation from Operation Underground Railroad earlier this year came after an internal investigation into claims of sexual misconduct involving seven female employees. Even with this news, the dispute between Ballard and the church might appear odd to many observers. The LDS church is more commonly known for cracking down on progressive voices, after all. Yet there has been a growing divide between the LDS church and far-right-wing members for over a decade now. The radicalization of American conservatismwith its denunciation of mainstream news sources, forfeiture of traditional norms, and embrace of partisan-based alternative factshas had severe consequences within Mormon culture. The erupting fight between Ballard, a growing hero on the far right, and Latter-day Saints leaders is just one point of public exposure for a much broader phenomenon. The Latter-day Saints church has had no shortage of schisms in its 200-year history. Scholars have identified over 400 religious expressions that date back to the Church of Christ, the name of the first church founded by Joseph Smith in 1830. Advertisement Advertisement For any church to thrive, leaders must always balance competing tensions. On the one hand, they are forced to adapt to changing circumstances; conversely, they must also appeal to eternal truths that transcend evolving societies. So when institutions like the LDS church are believed to be tipping too far to the former impulse at the expense of the latter, there is often cause for discomfort, especially from conservative believers who denounce modern society as corrupt. Added to this tension, in this specific historical situation, is the growing radicalization of the American right. White evangelicals have, for much of the 20th century, developed competing foundations for truth and moral values that are in opposition to what are deemed secular principles. Questions surrounding gender, history, and knowledge are answered through tribal politics rather than intellectual inquiry. Even religion itself is more commonly understood through a political prism. Advertisement Latter-day Saints, who had long been a target of American evangelicals who deemed their religion invalid, suddenly became their compatriots in battle during the culture wars of the 1970s and 1980s. Due to their ability to deliver on key social issues, like opposition to the passage of the Equal Rights Amendment, they were folded into the coalition known as the religious right. This granted the faith new social acceptance and cultural power. However, it also resulted in increasingly blurred boundaries between religious authority and far-right principles. As with white evangelicals, the doctrine of partisanship became inseparable from the doctrine of Christ. Advertisement Advertisement Such an overlap makes it difficult, therefore, when the two spheres come into conflict. It explains why, for instance, so many American Mormons were hesitant to follow the churchs counsel to get vaccinated and wear masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. It also explains why Mormons came in second to white evangelicals in polls determining which denominations were most likely to believe Donald Trumps lies concerning the 2020 election. Advertisement Advertisement Disputing church authority on secular issues is common, of course. But the divisions become more potent when they concern supposed religious truths. Tim Ballard has made a career by cultivating a certain image. He is a patriot dedicated to saving women and children from nefarious evils in the world. Ballard frequently speaks of global cabals dedicated to feasting on the innocent; observers have often identified how much of his discourse relates closely to QAnon conspiracies. Operation Underground Railroad, founded in 2013, claims to have emancipated more than 6,000 women and children and to have helped capture over 5,000 criminals. Yet experts have disputed these claims and have argued that OURs approach does more harm than good in the field. Advertisement Not that this criticism bothers Ballard. In his carefully cultivated narrative, Ballard is the strong man who is standing up to waves of misinformation as a heroic truth-teller. In the past few years hes become a rising star in the right-wing mediaverse, meeting with Donald Trump in the White House and testifying before Congress, as well as a global celebrity through Sound of Freedom. Advertisement Ballards brand of revisionist truth-telling has been especially popular within the LDS community. He wrote a series of books, marketed by the Latter-day Saints publisher Deseret Book, on Americas founding figuresthe pilgrims, George Washington, Abraham Lincolnthat utterly dismiss existing scholarship. Washington, Ballard argues, was visited by the Angel Moroni, the same divine figure who delivered the gold plates to Joseph Smith; Lincoln, conversely, was inspired to write the Emancipation Proclamation after reading the Book of Mormon. Advertisement Scholars have frequently pointed out the shoddy historical work in these books, but no bother: Ballard and his supporters have a well-developed script to dismiss secular threats to Gods truth. Advertisement Nor is Ballard alone in offering revisionist histories of the faith. There has been a growing number of Latter-day Saints who are uncomfortable with the churchs professionalized historical department shattering traditional myths. Most jarring for many is the increasingly clear picture of Smiths practice of polygamy that this department has produced. After a new church-sponsored historical essay admitted that Smith had up to 40 plural wives, it shocked and angered LDS members who missed the earlier, simpler depictions of the faiths founder. Many of these members congregated around Denver Snuffer, a lawyer who denounced church leaders for giving up sacred doctrines in a quest for social acceptance. He declared that Smith never practiced polygamy but that plural marriage was introduced by Brigham Young, Smiths successor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Snuffer was excommunicated in 2013, but his conspiracies, especially those that tell a declension narrative about the church, continue to be popular. More recently, a new conspiracy, led by Phil Davis, a Utah chocolatier, has gained popularity by borrowing from broader fears concerning the deep state. A multipart documentary produced by this group alleges that Smiths death at Carthage Jail in 1844 was an inside job performed by apostles, rather than an anti-Mormon mob. This and several other alternative facts efforts reveal a growing dissatisfaction in a particular conservative segment of the church with mainstream truths. Though Ballard has certainly flirted with QAnon conspiracies in the past, he has not been part of these groups that directly challenge the church. His problems with the church, according to Vice, were initially related to him apparently using the name of church apostle M. Russell Ballard (no relation) as part of his fundraising. Speculatively speaking, one might imagine that todays news of the allegations of sexual misconduct could provide further reason for the churchs anxiousness to distance itself from him. The statement to Vice was not clear about what particular actions were deemed morally unacceptable, after all. [Update, Sept. 19, 2023, at 4:15 p.m.: Tim Ballard issued a statement denying the allegations of sexual abuse, calling them tabloid-driven baseless inventions.] Advertisement Advertisement In a previous age, such allegations would likely end someones career. Yet in the era marked by a conservative base pledging fidelity to someone like Donald Trump, Ballard is poised to take advantage of a playbook that has already been prepared. Ballards first public remarks after the churchs statement last week came in what appears to be a well-choreographed monologue at a Revolutionary War monument in Boston. The site, indeed, symbolizes secession. Its not true, he insisted, dismissing the allegations that he was using Apostle Ballards name in an unauthorized way. All the press was spreading lies. While at first he said, I dont believe the church did this, Ballards speech eventually came to a crescendo, describing a grand conspiracy. It was not a coincidence, he claimed, that there was a coordinated attempt to smear his name just as it became known he might run for the Senate. I pray to God, he concluded, that the church wasnt part of this. Advertisement Thank you for filming, Ballard told those gathered around him by the monument. He encouraged them to send their videos to news outlets. Ballard is nothing if not a showman. Advertisement Advertisement Others were quick to back him up. Far-right media personality Glenn Beck, who is also a Latter-day Saint, offered his support on X in a since-deleted thread, claiming that effectively excommunicat[ing] church members was something his church never used to do. (The thread was deleted within hours of being posted, before Vice published the sexual misconduct allegations on Monday.) And social media was filled with accusations that Vice had made up the statement (despite it being confirmed by other outlets), that the statement was given by a rogue public relations worker, or that church leaders had lost their spine. It is yet to be seen what the entire fallout will be. But whether or not Ballard publicly breaks with the church, the dispute is yet another example of conservative angst within an evolving church that continues to wrestle with how to control its members. As the Latter-day Saints tradition remains firmly entrenched within Americas far-right circles, disputes over final authority, historical truth, and moral initiatives will continue to be contested space. A slow late-summer news cycle has brought us fresh pontification about how President Biden, still battling gruesome polling and growing concerns about his age and appeal, should inject new life into his campaign by picking a new running mate for 2024. Like most recommendations brought to us by op-ed columnists with too much time on their hands, casting Kamala Harris aside is a dreadful ideanot only because it has almost zero chance of actually happening, but because it would clearly cause more problems than it would solve. Maybe the president should dump the veep is a Beltway parlor game as old as time. Or at least as old as the writers doing the speculating. There were calls for George H.W. Bush to replace Dan Quayle with Colin Powell in 1992, and gossip that George W. Bush would toss the gruff Dick Cheney overboard in 2004. Before the 2012 election, some thought that Barack Obama, reeling from his historic sh ellacking in the 2010 midterms, should eighty-six thenVice President Biden and replace him with his 2008 rival, Hillary Clinton. In 2019, D.C. was rife with rumors that Mike Pence would be sacked as Trumps running mate for former U.N. Ambassador and South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley. Advertisement Advertisement Not to give away the ending to Titanic here, but none of these incumbents cashiered their vice presidents. No elected incumbent in the binding primary era that began in 1972 has switched running mates before standing for reelection, and the last time it happened at all was in 1944, when Harry Truman replaced Henry Wallace on the ballot to be FDRs vice presidentand then that was only because he had made too many ideological enemies inside the Democratic Party to stay, a problem Harris does not have. And while Gerald Ford, whose journey to the presidency was highly unusual, picked Bob Dole in 1976, and not incumbent Vice President Nelson Rockefeller, that was because Rockefeller made it clear he had no interest in the job. Advertisement Advertisement If Democrats could wave a magic wand and replace Harris with someone like Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, as New York magazines Eric Levitz suggests, without the ensuing backlash and Democrats in disarray news cycles, would that be a good idea? Possibly. (Not so much for Washington Post columnist David Ignatius bananas idea to swap in Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, who was for a time the least popular governor in America.) But there are no magic wands in politicsonly unappealing options and constraints imposed by choices made in the past, what social scientists call path dependence. The moment Biden selected Harris as his partner in 2020, he all but ensured that she would be more or less irreplaceable. Advertisement Advertisement Related From Slate Trumps Ploy to Evade Punishment for Jan. 6 Is Coming Into Focus Read More There were good reasons that the presidents who flirted briefly with shaking things up in this fashion ultimately decided against it. For one thing, the choice of vice president has almost no bearing whatsoever on the election outcome, as political scientists have pointed out again and again, and each time theres a new veepstakes. Running mates are usually chosen for strategic reasons, to placate a specific constituency or to assuage concerns about the head of the ticket. This is how we ended up with Biden as Obamas running mate: An older, more experienced white man could fend off worries that Obamas meager two years in the Senate and unusual background might prove to be a problem in the general election. But it is hard to imagine a core Democratic constituency that Biden can less afford to deliberately alienate than Black women, who gave the president an 81-point margin in 2020, according to exit pollsespecially at a time when pollsters keep warning that turnout among voters of color is one of the presidents worst potential problems. Advertisement Advertisement It is, of course, impossible to deny that Harris has liabilities, or deny that she has disappointed as both a presidential candidate and now as vice president. Shes been caught flat-footed too many times by what seemed like simple queries, and she has failed to stake out a clear policy space for herself inside the party. But Biden has done her no favors, either. He put her in charge of the southern border, an effectively impossible task given that Congress has shown zero interest in addressing the many problems there. Vice presidential popularity rises and falls with the presidents, and Bidens numbers have been underwater since August 2021. According to Gallup, Harris had far better approval numbers at the time of her inauguration than Pence did. If Democrats are worried about her favorability ratings, they should remember that the best thing they could do for them is to somehow boost Bidens. Advertisement Advertisement What about worries that Harris will become the partys de facto nominee in 2024, if something happens to Biden, or in 2028? I wouldnt be so sure about that. Yes, current or former vice presidents who seriously seek their partys nomination have rarely failed to get it. On the other hand, Harris has been well under 50 percent in polls that ask who Democratic primary voters would support if Biden doesnt run again, and she would likely face an unusually stiff challenge in the primaries even if she somehow ascends to the presidency before next year. One summer survey from the well-respected Ipsos/Reuters had her at just 20 percent among Democrats, only 7 points ahead of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Shes eminently beatable, and Democrats should trust their own voters to make the best choice. That said, after several years of seasoning at the national level, we might also find that Harris will be a much better candidate the next time around. And there is no telling how someone like Whitmer, or another popular governor, might handle the national spotlight. Just ask Ron DeSantis. Advertisement Advertisement Rather than worrying about what Harris might do in 2028, Democrats would do well to imagine what she and her team might do if they get thrown under the bus, especially if they feel like they are taking the fall for the failings of the president himself. If you think cutting memoirs from random Cabinet secretaries are bad, imagine the tea that a spurned Harris and her team might spill about the inner workings of the Biden administration. There are probably more embarrassing stories to share than bitey German Shepherds and interminable slide shows over lunch. So quit it: Vice President Harris isnt going anywhere. Over the weekend, a few Republican members from both the conservative House Freedom Caucus and the moderate Main Street Caucus cut a deal on a short-term government funding bill to avert a shutdown at the end of September. The 165-page measure keeping the government funded for a month would include most of House Republicans border security bill and make a roughly 8 percent cut to government spending (except for defense, veterans, and disaster relief). It includes none of the additional funding for disaster relief and Ukraine aid that the Biden administration has requested. House leaders hope to pass it on Thursday. The three co-authors from the Freedom Caucus include its chairman, Pennsylvania Rep. Scott Perry, as well as Florida Rep. Byron Donalds and Texas Rep. Chip Roy. These men have sterling conservative reputations within the Freedom Caucus, so getting support from the other Freedom Caucus hard-asses should be no proble NO Rep. Eli Crane (@RepEliCrane) September 18, 2023 Gah! Advertisement .@RepMattGaetz tell me This bill is a gift to Joe Biden. Im opposed. Juliegrace Brufke (@juliegraceb) September 18, 2023 Yeesh! Advertisement In case it wasnt clear, Im a HARD NO on the CR. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (@RepLuna) September 18, 2023 Blergh. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of early Monday afternoon, there were around a dozen House conservatives openly opposed to the bill. Just how dedicated are some members of this hard no squad? Florida Rep. Anna Paulina Luna just had a baby and is recovering from fever and infection but will fly to vote no because I know how important this is. Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene was booted from the Freedom Caucus earlier this year, but shes still a NO! in part because the bill would continue to fund special counsel Jack Smiths office. This is a common sentiment among the holdouts. Indiana Rep. Victoria Spartz, who is not seeking reelection and is spending her remaining days in Congress getting mad, released a withering statement on Speaker Kevin McCarthy, saying, Real leadership takes courage and willingness to fight for the country, not for power and a picture on a wall. Advertisement For some of these current noes, it could be posturing. (Probably not for Rep. Matt Gaetz, whos already talking about McCarthys final days as speaker and seems intent on ousting him.) They could be being obstinate to get a few more concessions like defunding Jack Smith or whatever other catnips out there, and then they could fall in line. It really doesnt matter whats put in the bill so long as it gets McCarthy 218 votes and kicks the can to the Senate. Advertisement And it doesnt matter whats put in this bill because it is going nowhere. The Senate Democratic majority isnt going to accept an 8-percent cut to non-defense spending. Theyre not going to swallow Republicans border bill. A lot of Senate Republicans wont either. Should this bill somehow reach the Senate, then, the Senate will send it back to the House at regular spending levels with supplementary Ukraine aid and fresh disaster relief monies attached. Then, the Senate will jam McCarthy and House Republicans. The only benefit that passing this preliminary House bill would offer is a menu from which President Biden and the Senate can choose a bone to throw at McCarthy. A final compromise wont defund Jack Smith, for example. But perhaps it would bar him from entering any Subway sandwich shop in the District of Columbia, effectively starving the man. On Monday, McCarthy wasnt exuding confidence about the short-term bills passage. I dont know, he told reporters when asked whether the House can pass it. But this was something devised by bottom up. Lets see where well get to. Lets see! On Saturday, the Wall Street Journal reported that relations between President Joe Biden and Attorney General Merrick Garland have reached frostiness of polar proportions. It apparently arises from a White House perception that Garlands infatuation with special counsels has gone too far. The Journal reports that Biden aides see Garlands handling of the inquiries into the Biden family as driven by a punctilious desire to give the appearance that sensitive investigations are walled off from political pressure. The aides have fresh evidence. On Thursday, newly appointed special counsel David Weiss egregiously overcharged Hunter Biden with gun violations. These charges hurt the Justice Department, and they hurt all of us by throwing chum to the MAGA feeding frenzy. They are ultimately Garlands responsibility. One can be sympathetic to each of Garlands individual decisions; the sum, however, has caused undeniable damage. Lets acknowledge that hindsight is 20/20. Thats precisely why it must be faced with brutal honesty. Strong leaders use it in making the tough decisions that lie ahead. Its also important to note that chilly White HouseJustice Department relations can reflect a healthy independence on the part of attorneys general in calling legal shots. At the same time, attorneys general can march so far in the direction of proving independence that they prioritize it above vision and their personal responsibility for making the sound call. That seems to be where we are. Advertisement Advertisement Saturdays Wall Street Journal story identifies two causes for the current chill between Biden and Garland. First, there was Garlands January 2023 appointment of a special counsel, the Republican Robert Hur, to investigate whether Joe Bidens possession of classified documents left over from his time as vice president violated the law. Second, there were Thursdays unusual charges filed against Hunter Biden. Theres much to unravel with each. Advertisement As to Garland appointing Hur, Biden has not publicly contested it, but he certainly has a case to make. In January and February, both Biden and Mike Pence were discovered to have classified documents in their possession from their respective times as vice president. Related From Slate Hunter Biden Has a Surprisingly Excellent Legal Defense Read More While on their face these circumstances appeared to parallel the situation that led the Department of Justice to search Trumps home at Mar-a-Lago and eventually charge him with numerous felonies, they could not be more different. Most notably, in neither case was there the slightest sign of intentionality in including the documents among personal materials taken home after their time in office. Both men quickly returned documents as soon as they were discovered. Advertisement Evidence of intentionality or of obstructing government efforts to get the documents returned are, for good reason, what it takes to prosecute former federal officials found to have classified documents in their possession following their time in office. Thats what happened in Trumps case. So, why did Garland authorize special counsels to investigate Biden? Advertisement Advertisement Plainly, he wanted to demonstrate his Justice Departments independence from the White House and offer the appearance that he was treating Trumps case the same as he treated Bidens and Pences, even though they were nothing alike. This was in keeping with his oversensitivity on the this issue since day one. Garland didnt have to go the special counsel route. He could have made the decision over whether or not charges were warranted himself, explaining differences between Trumps case and that of Biden and Pence. Advertisement Garland could have emphasized the powerful evidence that Trump obstructed efforts to have national security secrets returned. For Garland, though, that would have meant taking the heat. Theres precedent. In 1997, Attorney General Janet Reno refused to appoint an independent prosecutor to investigate Republican allegations of fundraising improprieties in the Bill Clinton White House. Advertisement Under pressure from Republicans to make the appointment, she stood firm: We do not have any specific and credible evidence that any covered official violated the law. She added: If I do what I think is right and I dont have a job, too bad. When it comes to the Hunter Biden special counsel saga, however, the plot is even thicker. It starts in 2021, with Garland and President Biden retaining David Weiss, the Trump-appointed U.S. attorney in Delaware, to complete the investigation that he had started in 2019 over allegations of Hunter Bidens misconduct. Generally, all U.S. attorneys are replaced with appointees of incoming presidents who are of a different party than their predecessors, but that did not happen with Weiss. Advertisement Advertisement Next came the July 2023 failure of the lawyers, including Weiss, to negotiate a sound plea agreement that the federal judge would approve. In retrospect, one is left to wonder if Garland might have better cut his losses at this point. Weiss had taken four years to come up with an unsuccessful plea agreement. That failure might have been reason to replace him. Instead, Garland promoted him with the special counsel appointment, which put Weiss in a position where he can now only be removed for cause rather than at the discretion of the president. In the background of all this were screams of political favoritism from Fox News and the MAGA Republican House. They claimed the plea arrangement had been a sweetheart deal for the presidents son. Advertisement A federal prosecutors job is to shut out the political noise and do justice. To any dispassionate observer, it looks as if Weiss lacked earplugs. The same could be said of Garland in his decision to appoint Weiss. The worst was yet to come. Before bringing the new felony gun charges, special counsel Weiss had to notify Garland of them and get his approval. Advertisement Here was another apparent turning point for the attorney general. He would have known that federal indictments for an unlawful gun purchase by a non-felon in the absence of the guns use in any subsequent crime are rare to nonexistent. Advertisement Advertisement Yet if Garland disapproved of Weiss proposed filing of precisely that kind of indictment of Hunter Biden, the special counsel regulations required the attorney general to notify Congress and explain. Republicans would have a field day with him in hearings if he did the right thing and rejected the charges. Of course, he likely never would have faced such a dilemma had he not gotten on a slippery slope by sticking with Weiss up to this point. Advertisement On Thursday, Weiss indicted Hunter Biden on the three gun charges. They include two counts of making false statements in 2018 about his drug use to obtain a weapon and one count of illegally possessing a gun while addicted. At stake here is the Justice Departments commitment to apolitical justice for both sides, including that of the administration which appointed him. These charges simply would never have been brought were it not for the political valence of Hunter being Joe Bidens son. Indeed, in an interview with Joyce Vance published on Saturday, Charlie Oberly, who preceded Weiss as the U.S. attorney in Delaware, stated bluntly, based on the facts of the Hunter case as he knew them, I cannot imagine we would attempt to make such an individual a felon. Advertisement None of this is reassuring. It suggests that one can bend over so far backwards to prove impartiality as to break the back of apolitical justice. Even so, theres reason to think a decent outcome may yet occur in Hunter Bidens case. It could take the form of a negotiated settlement. Alternatively, a court, a jury, or both could sort it out in some satisfactory way. Advertisement In the meantime, its worth keeping in mind a larger picture as we lament the current track we are on and the resulting tension between the Justice Department and the White House. One might think it a small consolation that the chilliness between todays attorney general and the White House is much better than the absence of independence and the close alignment between Trump and Attorney General Bill Barr we witnessed for almost all of Barrs tenure. If Trump wins election again in 2024, however, Garland will be replaced by someone offering far worse than excessive evenhandedness, or even Barrs toadyism: an attorney general with total fealty to a criminal president. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said on Monday that a feeding program began in this administration from the conditional cash transfer scheme. Ang 4Ps (Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program) po ay intended o ang objective nito is to break the intergenerational poverty cycle. So ang focus noon ay sa education ng mga bata at health ng mga bata. Ang ating Food Stamp Program (FSP) o ang Walang Gutom 2027 ay i-introduce po ng bagong administrasyon ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos, para po i-address and food insecurity sa bansa natin, said Social Welfare Undersecretary Edu Punay during the second Nutrition Education Session and third Market Day of 50 pilot beneficiaries of FSP in Tondo, Manila. [Translation: The 4Ps is intended or its objective is to break the intergenerational poverty cycle. So it focuses on children's education and children's health. While the Food Stamp Program or the Walang Gutom 2027, introduced by the new administration of President Bongbong Marcos, is to address food insecurity in our country.] The DSWD said under the FSP pilot phase, 3,000 families from selected regions and who are qualified under the food-poor criteria of the Philippine Statistics Authority will receive electronic benefit transfer cards with P3,000 worth of food credits to purchase nutritious food items from DSWD-accredited retailers. Beneficiaries will be required to attend nutrition education sessions and skills training from the technical Education and Skills Development Authority, as well as catered job fairs of the Department of Labor and Employment. Mayroon po tayong mga conditions dito sa ating programa kasi ang target po natin, ang objective po natin, apart from mabigyan sila ng karampatang pagkain sa pang-araw araw, ito po ay maturuan po sila na maging self-sustaining, Punay added. [Translation: We have conditions for our program because our objective, apart from giving them right daily food, is to also teach them to be self-sustaining.] Did you stop following the news about Colorado Rep. Lauren Boebert last Friday? If so, first of all, congratulations on being some sort of mindfulness geniushope you enjoyed your weekend of hiking and reading poetry. Second, heres the latest: Boebert initially denied that she had been vaping at a Denver performance of Beetlejuice: The Musical, from which she was ejected on Sept. 10. Security footage from the venue, though, caught her blowing out a big fat cloud of vape steam, or whatever, while seated. (You will never catch me trying to smoke out of a mechanical pencil.) She then issued an apology statement that included the all-time apology phrase I genuinely did not recall vaping that evening. The security footage also captured Boebert rubbing her hand on her dates crotch while he grabbed one of her breasts. Talk to your teens tonight about whether they are Boeberting and, if so, whether they know how to do it safely. Boeberts date, the New York Post reports, is the co-owner of a bar in Aspen, Colorado, that hosted a drag performance in January. (Yes, Lauren Boebert represents Aspen. And like others in her political cohort, she has complained that drag shows are corrupting American children and softening its military and so forth. In fact, she tweeted about that subject Monday morning.) Related From Slate House Republican Strategy of Elevating Unstable Clown People Reveals Itself to Have Downsides Read More Back in Washington, Boebert and the other hard-right members of the House Freedom Caucus will be playing an important role in this weeks negotiations over whether to continue funding the operations of government. The latest news there is that the Freedom Caucus reached an agreement with the GOPs moderate Main Street Caucus on a bill that would fund the government through Oct. 31 but that it may not even garner enough support to pass the Republican-held House, much less the Democrat-held Senate because it includes 8 percent cuts to spending and would cut off military aid to Ukraine. Other MAGA House Republicans, meanwhile, are insisting that funding be tied to the termination of Jack Smiths special counsel prosecution of Donald Trump. Sounds like its gonna be a long week! The kind of stressful environment, in other words, that can make a member of Congress want to take the edge off with a few hits from the vape pen and a quick [looks at editor] ha-ha, actually, lets go in another direction here Have you ever wondered why you never come across the verb garner except in articles about politics? You never hear anyone say theyre going to be garnering milk and eggs at the grocery store, am I right? OK, have a nice Monday! Two siblings have confessed their involvement in a scam targeting the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), a lifeline for many businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their fraudulent activities aimed to extract around $7.6 million, earmarked funds to support struggling businesses. Larry Jordan, 45, from Lancaster, New York, and his brother, Sutukh El, who also goes by multiple aliases, including Curtis Jordan and Hugo Hurt, from Buffalo, New York, masterminded an elaborate fraud scheme spanning from April to September 2020. The duo filed eight deceptive PPP loan applications for companies they either managed or owned. In their bid to siphon funds from the system, they provided Evolve Bank & Trust with three applications and another five to Lendio, a Utah-based financial tech firm. Central to their fraud was the false declaration about each companys payroll expenses for 2019. This information is crucial as the Small Business Administration (SBA) relies on it to decide the appropriate loan amount. Jordan and El provided fabricated IRS documents and payroll registers to bolster their fraudulent claims. Notably, these forms were never officially filed with the IRS. Discover the Zoho Ecosystem Sell Your Business Drive Traffic to Your Website Advertise Your Business Here Upon securing the funds, the duo directed the money to an account overseen by El. Rather than using these funds to support their business payroll, as intended by the PPP, they misappropriated the money for personal expenses, investments, and home upgrades. Having admitted to their crimes, the brothers now face severe legal repercussions. Both pleaded guilty to the conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud, exposing them to a possible prison term of up to 30 years and a fine of up to $1 million. Additionally, Larry Jordan confessed to bank fraud and engagement in transactions with criminally derived assets. The latter can add an additional 10 years to his prison sentence. Their sentencing is slated for January 17, 2024, with a federal district court judge given the task of determining their fate. This cases announcement was the collective effort of various departments, including the Justice Departments Criminal Division and the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of New York. Several special agents in charge from different agencies were involved in unveiling this fraud. The ongoing investigation into the case is the collective effort of multiple agencies, highlighting the gravity of the situation and the significant resources being deployed to ensure justice. Small Business Deals The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance, especially during times of crisis when fraudsters often try to exploit vulnerabilities. Small business owners who genuinely need these funds, suffer when such fraud occurs. The Justice Department urges anyone with information on similar fraudulent activities tied to COVID-19 relief to come forward. Those with pertinent information can reach out to the Justice Departments National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline or file a complaint online, ensuring that individuals or groups attempting to exploit the system are brought to justice. If you buy something through our links, we may earn money from our affiliate partners. Learn more. Humans are the weakest link in building a robust defense against cyber threats. According to the latest report, 82% of data breach incidents are caused due to the human element. A strict cybersecurity policy can help you protect confidential data and technology infrastructure from cyber threats. What Is a Cybersecurity Policy? A cybersecurity policy offers guidelines for employees to access company data and use organizational IT assets in a way to minimize security risks. The policy often includes behavioral and technical instructions for employees to ensure maximum protection from cybersecurity incidents, such as virus infection, ransomware attacks, etc. Drive Traffic to Your Website Discover the Zoho Ecosystem Sell Your Business Advertise Your Business Here Also, a cybersecurity policy can offer countermeasures to limit damage in the event of any security incident. Here are common examples of security policies: Remote access policy offers guidelines for remote access to an organizations network offers guidelines for remote access to an organizations network Access control policy explains standards for network access, user access, and system software controls explains standards for network access, user access, and system software controls Data protection policy provides guidelines for handling confidential data so as to avoid security breaches provides guidelines for handling confidential data so as to avoid security breaches Acceptable use policy sets standards for using the companys IT infrastructure The Purpose of Cybersecurity Policies The primary purpose of cybersecurity policy is to enforce security standards and procedures to protect company systems, prevent a security breach, and safeguard private networks. Small Business Deals Security Threats Can Harm Business Continuity Security threats can harm business continuity. In fact, 60% of small businesses become defunct within six months of a cyber attack. And needless to say, data theft can cost a company dearly. According to IBM research, the average cost of a ransomware breach is $4.62m. So creating security policies has become the need of hours for small businesses to spread awareness and protect data and company devices. READ MORE: What Is Cybersecurity? What Should a Cybersecurity Policy Include? Here are crucial elements you should include in your cybersecurity policy: 1. Intro The intro section introduces users to the threat landscape your company is navigating. It tells your employees about the danger of data theft, malicious software, and other cyber crimes. 2. Purpose This section explains the purpose of the cybersecurity policy. Why has the company created the cybersecurity policy? The purposes of the cybersecurity policy often are: Protect the companys data and IT infrastructure Defines rules for using the company and personal devices in the office Let employees know disciplinary actions for policy violation 3. Scope In this section, you will explain to whom your policy applies. Is it applicable to remote workers and on-site employees only? Do vendors have to follow the policy? 4. Confidential Data This section of the policy defines what confidential data is. The companys IT department comes with a list of items that could be classified as confidential. 5. Company Device Security Whether mobile devices or computer systems, make sure that you set clear usage guidelines to ensure security. Every system should have good antivirus software to avoid virus infection. And all devices should be password-protected to prevent any unauthorized access. 6. Keeping Emails Secure Infected emails are a leading cause of ransomware attacks. Therefore, your cybersecurity policy must include guidelines for keeping emails secure. And to spread security awareness, your policy should also have a provision for security training from time to time. 7. Transfer of Data Your cybersecurity policy must include policies and procedures for transferring data. Ensure that users transfer data only on secure and private networks. And customer information and other essential data should be stored using strong data encryption. 8. Disciplinary Measures This section outlines the disciplinary process in the event of a violation of the cybersecurity policy. The severity of disciplinary action is established based on the gravity of the violation It could be from a verbal warning to termination. Additional Resources for Cybersecurity Policy Templates There is no one-size-fits-all cybersecurity policy. There are several types of cybersecurity policies for different applications. So you should first understand your threat landscape. And then, prepare a security policy with appropriate security measures. You can use a cyber security policy template to save time while creating a security policy. You can download a cybersecurity policy templates form here, here, and here. Steps for Developing a Cybersecurity Policy The following steps will help you develop a cybersecurity policy quickly: Set Requirements for Passwords You should enforce a strong password policy, as weak passwords cause 30% of data breaches. The cybersecurity policy in your company should have guidelines for creating strong passwords, storing passwords safely, and using unique passwords for different accounts. Also, it should discourage employees from exchanging credentials over instant messengers. Communicate Email Security Protocol Email phishing is the leading cause of ransomware attacks. So make sure your security policy explains guidelines for opening email attachments, identifying suspicious emails, and deleting phishing emails. Train on How to Handle Sensitive Data Your security policy should clearly explain how to handle sensitive data, which includes: How to identify sensitive data How to store and share data securely with other team members How to delete/destroy data once there is no use for it Also, your policy should prohibit employees from saving sensitive data on their personal devices. Set Guidelines for Using Technology Infrastructure You should set clear guidelines for using the technology infrastructure of your business, such as: Employees must scan all removable media before connecting to the companys systems Employees should not connect to the companys server from personal devices Employees should always lock their systems when theyre not around Employees should install the latest security updates on computers and mobile devices Restrict the use of removable media to avoid malware infection Make Guidelines for Social Media and Internet Access Your policy should include what business information employees should not share on social media. Make guidelines for which social media apps should be used/or not used during working hours. Your security policy should also dictate that employees should always use VPN to access the Internet for an extra security layer. Without having a good firewall and antivirus software, no system in the company should be allowed to be connected to the Internet. Make an Incident Response Plan An incident response plan outlines procedures to follow during a security breach. Steps to create an effective plan include: Identification and Reporting: Utilize intrusion detection, employee feedback, and system logs. Establish a clear reporting channel. Assess and Prioritize: Categorize incidents based on severity and type, such as data breaches or malware. Containment: Implement immediate measures like isolating systems, followed by long-term containment strategies. Eradication and Recovery: Determine the root cause, then restore systems using patches or backups. Notification: Keep internal teams informed and, if necessary, alert customers or regulators. Review and Lessons: Analyze the response post-incident, identifying areas for improvement. Continuous Improvement: Train staff on the plan and stay updated on evolving cyber threats. Update Your Cybersecurity Policy Regularly Cybersecurity policy is not something carved in stone. The cyber threat landscape is constantly changing, and the latest cybersecurity statistics prove it. So you should review your cybersecurity policy regularly to check if it has appropriate security measures to address the present security risks and regulatory requirements. Reason for Update Implication Evolving Cyber Threats New types of threats emerge, and existing ones become more sophisticated. Technological Advancements As technology evolves, new vulnerabilities may arise, requiring policy adjustments. Regulatory and Compliance Changes Laws and regulations related to data protection and privacy can change. Organizational Changes Mergers, acquisitions, or restructuring may necessitate policy revisions. Incident Analysis Feedback After a security incident, feedback can highlight gaps in the current policy. Is there Software for Creating a Cybersecurity Policy? You dont need a specialized software program to create a cybersecurity policy. You can use any document creation tool to write a security policy. You can also download a cybersecurity policy template and customize it according to your needs to save time. Next Steps Now that you know what a cybersecurity policy is and how to create one, the next step is preparing a cybersecurity policy for your business and enforcing it. READ MORE: September polls show it will be painful. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share Welcome to your weekly commentary and overview of news from Slovakia. The September polls give a better hint of what to expect at the elections. Some candidates are resorting to their fists. Keep calm and vote, psychiatrists say. Slovakia expels a Russian Embassy staffer. If you have a suggestion on how to make this overview better, let me know at michaela.terenzani@spectator.sk. September polls show it can still go either way Andrej Kiska, the former president whose term was marked by growing hostility between the Presidential Palace and the Government Office then headed by Robert Fico has been offering some advice to like-minded Slovak citizens two weeks before they head to the polls. Essentially, he says, if you dont want to see Fico make a comeback, dont put all your eggs in one basket. That basket is Progressive Slovakia (PS), which is benefiting from the snowball effect and collecting votes among the sizeable anti-Fico camp. But the more PSs support grows, the more it risks having no partners in the house with which to form a stable parliamentary majority and subsequently a government that does not include Smer. This view, which Kiska basically endorsed with his intervention in the campaign, envisions a scenario that the latest NMS Research poll for the Sme daily suggests is a real possibility. PS leader Michal Simecka responded by asking what has become of Slovakia if the aspiration to beat Smer in the polls is met with defeatism. Leaving aside the irony of Kiskas appeal in view of the role he played in the failure of progressive forces in 2020, the competitors and at the same time potential future partners of PS (most notably SaS) have already started campaigning against the Progressives. This is partly an echo of the fear voiced by Kiska, and partly because they know that PSs 18-percent share comprises a significant chunk of their one-time voters. The feared scenario Coffee never loses its capacity to surprise me. Weve published Sprudge for 14 years as of this month, but in all the time Ive never had the privilege to tell a story quite like this one. It comes courtesy of Tami Canaday and Denvers Wagon Coffee Roasters, whose work centers and prioritizes sobriety and addiction recovery. Tami and her husband Ryan Canaday are the founders of FREE, which describes itself as a spiritual community for addicts and loved ones of addicts. Wagon Coffee functions as an integral part of the wider mission at FREE. They roast their own coffee on a Bellwether, teach coffee skills to members of their recovery community, and operate a coffee bar, the Free Cafe, to serve these roasts and build additional skills. Put it all together and theres a kind of ecosystem of recovery and coffee, working in harmony. It was an absolute pleasure to speak with Tami Canaday for the latest entry in our Roaster Spotlight feature series, in partnership with Bellwether. Her story is inspiring and speaks to the bigger power of coffee in modern life today. This interview has been gently edited and condensed. Tell us a little more about the story of Wagon Coffee Roasters how and when did you get started? What is your background in coffee? Im Tami Canaday, Owner/Founder of Wagon Coffee. I identify as a Recovery Advocate and Loved One of an Addict. My husband, Ryan, is 10+ years sober. Ive witnessed the beautiful transformation of recovery through him, myself, and our marriage. In 2018, Ryan and I launched our nonprofit called FREEfor addicts, loved ones of addicts, and spiritual refugees. We create space for healing, recovery, and spiritual connection within our recovery community in Denver, CO. Because of FREE, Ive learned more about women in recovery, their stories, the alarming and increasing addiction stats, and the hardships they face. I decided to do something, in the midst of a pandemic, to help women in recovery. And it just so happens that 90% of recovering addicts and alcoholics drink coffee! I founded Wagon Coffee in 2020 in response to the critical need for assistance for those afflicted with alcohol and drug addiction. The COVID-19 pandemic created a dramatic upsurge in mental health issues impacting all facets of our everyday life which is still affecting many today. In fact, female alcoholics have death rates that are significantly higher than men who are alcoholics. So, along comes Wagon Coffeewhich comes from the centurys old saying, when you are sober, you are on the wagon. But we also are being the wagon by guiding women in recovery towards wholeness by providing second chances through employment, encouragement, and empowerment. I have an extensive background in coffee with 20+ years of experience, including 12+ years of corporate coffee operations. Ive worked as a barista, a trainer, ran district operational oversight, and as a subject matter expert. My corporate coffee background combined with my story and passion as a recovery advocate is what ignited Wagon Coffee. As the loved one of an addict and recovery advocate, I feel most alive when guiding others towards joy and wholeness so that they may live a better story. Were especially interested in getting to know more about the mission of Wagonsupporting women in recoveryplease tell us more about this work. Its no secret that we are in the midst of an addiction and mental health crisis. And the more we learn, addiction and mental health often go hand in hand. In fact, deaths from fentanyl overdoses, unfortunately, continue to rise steadily every day. According to the Colorado Substance Abuse Report, there were over 800 fentanyl related deaths in the state in 2021, a 260% increase from 2019. Also, 100,000 overdoses happened in 2021, up from 70,000 in 2018! In 2019, 5.7 million women were reported as having an alcohol use disorder (AUD); 5% to 10% of women in the US will suffer from alcoholism sometime in their lives. In 2023, 17% of US females used illegal drugs or misused prescription drugs within the last year. But here is the real head trip. We can talk about data and statistics all day but the truth is, statistics are just data with the tears wiped away. We have come to know and love many of the people that have lost their life to this disease. When we talk about sustainability at our coffee company, its personal. Its peoples lives. Its creating space for people. When and how did you get started roasting? Why is roasting important to your projectwhat does this control over the product offer your business? I began roasting coffee on a small 8oz home roaster and selling it to our direct community under the Colorado Cottage Foods Act. I have a vast background and passion for coffee, so I thought roasting coffee would be a good way I could be of service and give back to the bottom line of our nonprofit. Plus, I felt like I had done everything else with coffee so this was a great challenge! As I was roasting, many of the women at FREE gatherings were looking for ways to contribute, and participated in things like doing the dishes, taking out trash, or scrubbing toilets as opportunities to stay sober and be of service while building a sense of belonging. People were seeing the impact, the word was spreading, our community was buying enough coffee that I had to use three home roasters to keep up with the demand! Word continued to spread that our coffee supported recovery efforts and opportunities presented themselves that would exceed the limit for operating under the Colorado Cottage Act. Plus, running three roasters just wasnt sustainable. I also considered that 100% of the proceeds were going back to the bottom line of our nonprofit, but they werent measurable in terms of impact. So, thats when I decided our proceeds would benefit women in recovery so we could measure impact by story. I also knew that sustainability from crop to cup was equally importantfarmer stories also are measurable and impactful to buyers. So, we needed a simple system where the women could show up, roast coffee without much training or oversight, and be of service. Enter the Bellwether Commercial Roaster. When did you start working with a Bellwether roaster? What do you like about it? Was there a learning curve? Tell us more about your experience with Bellwether. We started roasting commercially on our Bellwether Series 1 Roaster on the day it arrived in October of 2020. No training required was key. The automated roasting cycles of the Bellwether Roaster meant I could choose a roast profile for a coffee, then train recovering women to use that roast profile under their log in over and over againeven if they had zero coffee experience. Green coffee sourcing was simplified. I was able to maintain my existing sourcing relationships, but I could also buy coffee from Bellwethers green coffee marketplace and use the roast profiles our inhouse experts create for each coffee to get started roasting on day one. We increased our roasting capacity overnight, and the whole thing was plug and play. Under our old workflow I could only roast one pound every 1.5 hours. With the Bellwether we can roast six pounds in fifteen minutes. In late 2022 we upgraded to a Bellwether Series 2 roaster, which I love for its consistency, as well as for having a screen thats built-in instead of an iPad, which we had to disconnect and stow away everyday for safe keeping. One batch only takes a few minutes of labor each cycle, and this is especially important for Wagon Coffee. It allows our team to focus on other tasks alongside coffee roasting, including attending meetingswe actually roast in the backroom at FREE, and so 12-step meetings are offered onsite for our community. What has been your favorite coffee origin country to roast so far? What has been the most difficult? My favorite coffee to roast and drink are natural processed Yirgacheffe coffees from Ethiopia. Anything with cherry or berry fruit notes has always been my favorite. I love that when I roast an Ethiopian natural as a light roast that it has more blueberry forward flavor notes while a medium yields stronger strawberry flavor notes. We are a community of recovering addicts so often we get the request for STRONG CAFFEINATED COFFEE, one that will create a sober buzz! I heard about white coffee so I started researching it and was up for the challenge. Our white coffee was difficult to perfect as it did not have a profile pre-built in by Bellwether, so we went through 30+lbs of coffee to perfect our product, accounting for time, temperature, and densityyou need a finished coffee that is roasted just enough to be able to grind it, but still light enough to be considered white. Our white coffee turns out looking kind of like the color of a peanutand it tastes like one, too! Tell uswhat does being a coffee roaster mean to you? Roasting coffee is our medium. Its a tool that allows us to do what we love while supporting women in recovery from addiction. We often say to folks: This Coffee Saves Lives. People have many great options for coffee, but our company leans in 100% on a big mission. Our operations offer a trifecta of good causes; the coffee you drink from Wagon Coffee doesnt just help you, it helps a whole community of others, plus the environment, which helps all of us! Thank you. Roaster Spotlight is a feature series on Sprudge presented in partnership with Bellwether Coffee. Read more Roaster Spotlight on Sprudge. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230917/canada-to-allocate-24mln-for-supply-of-air-defense-systems-to-ukraine-1113442863.html Canada to Allocate $24Mln for Supply of Air Defense Systems to Ukraine Canada to Allocate $24Mln for Supply of Air Defense Systems to Ukraine Canada will contribute 33 million Canadian dollars to a UK-led international partnership to provide air defense systems to Ukraine, adding that this contribution would be part of the $500 million funding. 2023-09-17T23:37+0000 2023-09-17T23:37+0000 2023-09-17T23:37+0000 world canada canadian parliament ukraine ukraine crisis air defense air defense system air defense missile system justin trudeau justin trudeau /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/07/11/1097399207_0:191:2963:1857_1920x0_80_0_0_cc762bea1a48b9b16d904d7ffdb5bcc2.jpg The statement added that this contribution would be part of the $500 million funding, announced in June by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during his visit to Kiev. The partnership was created in June 2023 by several countries, including Denmark, the Netherlands, the United States and the United Kingdom to provide air defense missiles to Ukraine, the statement said. Western allies began pouring weapons and ammunition into Ukraine shortly after Russia launched its military operation in the country in February 2022. The Kremlin has repeatedly warned against further escalation leading to NATO's direct involvement in the conflict. canada ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International canada, uk, denmark, netherlands, united states, canadian government, ukraine, ukraine crisis, air defense system, justin trudeau, prime minister justin trudeau, air missile defense system https://sputnikglobe.com/20230917/thousands-of-israelis-protest-against-judicial-reform-in-tel-aviv-1113442734.html Thousands of Israelis Protest Against Judicial Reform in Tel Aviv Thousands of Israelis Protest Against Judicial Reform in Tel Aviv Thousands of Israelis took to the streets of Tel Aviv for the 37th week of protests against the prime minister's judicial reform. On Tuesday, the supreme court started considering petitions against the reform. 2023-09-17T23:14+0000 2023-09-17T23:14+0000 2023-09-17T23:14+0000 world israel tel aviv judicial reform prime minister prime minister benjamin netanyahu israeli supreme court /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/07/05/1111686838_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_c7940fdc529c0a8f2f70ce3da282468f.jpg The symbol of the protest in Tel Aviv was the 1948 Israeli Declaration of Independence, which proclaimed the establishment of the country and set out the basic principles of its existence as a democratic Jewish state. The demonstrators marched from Rothschild Boulevard to Kaplan Street with a huge copy of the document. Some of the protesters headed to the Ben Gurion Airport, from where Netanyahu is scheduled to depart to the United States later in the day. On September 12, the Israeli Supreme Court started considering petitions against the reform approved by the Israeli parliament in July, which limits the power of the court to overturn government decisions by declaring them unreasonable. The reform was approved under the opposition's boycott and amid months-long nationwide protests. The legal reform amended one of Israels basic laws which form the basis of its future constitution. If scrapped, it would be the first such intervention by the Supreme Court in the history of the Jewish state and could plunge it into an even deeper constitutional crisis. The supporters of the reform claim that it is a necessary step to enable a democratically elected government to pursue policies to the benefit of the majority of the Israeli citizens. Their opponents argue that it would make it harder for the Supreme Court to intervene when elected officials make arbitrary, extreme or corrupt decisions. israel tel aviv Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International israel, tel aviv, judicial reform, prime minister benjamin netanyahu, israeli supreme court, israeli judicial reform https://sputnikglobe.com/20230917/us-should-avoid-open-armed-conflict-with-china-by-all-means-says-us-general--1113442480.html US Should Avoid Open Armed Conflict With China by All Means, Says US General US Should Avoid Open Armed Conflict With China by All Means, Says US General The US should do everything possible to avoid open armed conflict with China and not repeat "great power" wars, Milley said on Sunday. On China's possible "invasion" of Taiwan, Milley said the US hopes for a peaceful outcome. 2023-09-17T20:28+0000 2023-09-17T20:28+0000 2023-09-18T08:58+0000 military us taiwan china mark milley beijing taipei washington dc washington, dc washington d.c /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/06/12/1083185050_0:160:3073:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_fe33f3afc3281eb621f462dfa22dfdf8.jpg "We should try our very best to avoid open armed conflict with China," Milley said in an interview with an American news network. The military official added that the US already participated in two "great power wars," specifying that he was talking about World War I and World War II. Speaking about China's possible "invasion" of Taiwan, Milley said that "it is entirely possible" for the US to repel the attack, adding that Washington wants a "peaceful outcome" between Beijing and Taipei. Taiwan has been governed independently from mainland China since 1949. Beijing regards the island as its province, while Taiwan maintains that it is an autonomous entity but stops short of declaring independence. Beijing opposes any official foreign contacts with Taipei and regards Chinese sovereignty over the island as indisputable. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230913/us-deployments-in-japan-could-chain-gang-tokyo-into-conflict-with-china-1113350821.html taiwan china beijing taipei washington dc washington, dc washington d.c Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International mark milley, beijing, taipei, taiwan, china, washington dc, us, military, us military https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/cheater-in-chief-biden-wants-to-salvage-us-hegemony-by-reforming-un-security-council-1113473923.html Cheater-in-Chief: Biden Wants to Salvage US Hegemony by Reforming UN Security Council Cheater-in-Chief: Biden Wants to Salvage US Hegemony by Reforming UN Security Council US President Joe Biden will urge the UN to expand the Security Council to water down Russia and China's influence in the body, the Western press says. Could Biden succeed? 2023-09-18T18:42+0000 2023-09-18T18:42+0000 2023-09-18T18:42+0000 un security council (unsc) analysis washington russia china the united nations (un) us europe ww2 joe biden /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/04/19/1109817311_0:0:3072:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_05f7ad3f1169e5cdf59f709903058a8c.jpg Joe Biden "will take a look at the architecture of the Security Council," US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby announced ahead of the UN General Assembly meeting.Still, the British media assumes that the US president will advocate adding new members to the United Nations Security Council in order to weaken Russia and China's role. Reportedly, Biden wants to add India, Brazil, Germany, South Africa, and Japan to the international body.Currently, the Security Council has 15 members: five of them are "permanent" (P5) and enjoy veto powers (Russia, China, France, the UK, and the US); and 10 are "non-permanent," with five of them being elected each year by the General Assembly for a two-year term."One can surmise that Biden is joining the 'bandwagon' of many countries and academics who are similarly asking for expansion. Perhaps Biden's noises will be well received in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, where the prestige of the US has been in decline, and the US could score points at low cost," the former UN independent expert continued.Biden is by no means an innovator: at the 15th BRICS Summit, which convened in August in Johannesburg, the core nations of the group (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) stated in their final declaration that they are in favor of reforming the UN Security Council and expanding developing countries' representation. The BRICS declaration named Brazil, India, and South Africa as potential new members of the UNSC.Thus, the US president de facto wants to add two of Washington's ardent allies to the list Germany and Japan. The two weren't added to the original composition of the UNSC (which was formed immediately after the Second World War) since they were the two major WW2 aggressors. In addition, Team Biden seemingly wants to curry favors with major powers of the Global South in an apparent bid to drag them to Washington's side.According to Parry, "the reasons surrounding the timing of this attempt to propose changes could not be more clear, with Washington striking out virtually everywhere in proxy theaters of conflict and spheres of influence.""US hegemony is shrinking with more and more countries throughout the global south shifting away from the West toward Moscow and Beijing's camps and the Ukraine proxy war has been yet another foreign policy disaster that has geostrategically backfired," the journalist said.Per Parry, Washington's sudden interest in reforming the body looks peculiar, given that US administrations have on many occasions snubbed and abused international law by launching unilateral invasions and arranging illegal regime changes across the globe.For his part, Alfred de Zayas believes that the criticism that the composition of the Security Council is obsolete and no longer reflects the "reality on the ground" is valid. However, merely adding someone's subservient allies (like Germany and Japan) is unlikely to serve the idea of making the body more representative, he suggests."The question is how to ensure that the new permanent members are not puppets of the older permanent members," de Zayas highlighted. "Peace on our planet can best be ensured through a truly multipolar arrangement and the daily practice of multilateralism."When it comes to the use of the veto power, one should remember that it is "an important tool to prevent escalation and the use of force, allowing mediation and peace initiatives to progress," he noted. De Zayas recalled how Washington manipulated the UNSC decisions to launch its intervention in Libya, which has destabilized North Africa for decades to come, and how the US selectively used the veto power to shield its allies.Given all of the above, the Biden administration's new initiative looks highly suspicious and should be taken with a grain of salt by the international community, according to Sputnik's interlocutors. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230825/pepe-escobar-brics-11---strategic-tour-de-force-1112882830.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230917/biden-to-raise-issue-of-making-amendments-to-un-security-councils-structure-says-white-house-1113442990.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230916/jeffrey-sachs-us-sanctions-against-russia-and-china-destined-to-fail-1113405612.html washington russia china Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Ekaterina Blinova Ekaterina Blinova News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ekaterina Blinova un general assembly, un security council, joe biden, biden un security council expansion, un security council new members, un security council reform, russia, china, brics, brics 11, us invasion of libya, un security council veto powers, ukraine conflict, war in ukraine, biden administration https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/china-russia-bear-special-responsibility-for-global-strategic-stability---wang-yi-1113475760.html China, Russia Bear Special Responsibility for Global Strategic Stability - Wang Yi China, Russia Bear Special Responsibility for Global Strategic Stability - Wang Yi Russia and China bear special responsibility for maintaining strategic stability in the world, with their bilateral cooperation not aimed against anyone, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Monday. 2023-09-18T18:59+0000 2023-09-18T18:59+0000 2023-09-18T18:59+0000 world russia china sergey lavrov wang yi moscow russia-china cooperation bilateral cooperation multipolar world /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/12/1113477550_0:0:2938:1652_1920x0_80_0_0_47acce87fbb5e5b98b7733d33734a6a6.jpg "Our cooperation is not aimed against anyone and is not a subject to disturbances and outside interventions. At the same time, China and Russia, as global superpowers and permanent members of the UN Security Council, bear special responsibility for maintaining strategic stability and progress in the world. The fiercer unilateral hegemony and bloc confrontation is, the more important it is for us to keep up with the times," Wang said during a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow. "The current turbulence of global and regional situations" demands constant coordination and the boosting of strategic cooperation, the diplomat added. Lavrov noted that the Russia-China cooperation is developing in "harsh conditions when the world is undergoing tectonic shifts." The Russian minister also expressed confidence that the countries' bilateral ties would continue to develop, including on the sidelines of international forums such as the UN General Assembly and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation. The result of this cooperation will "meet the expectations of all peoples of the international community," Lavrov emphasized. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/lavrov-and-chinese-foreign-minister-wang-yi-hold-talks-in-moscow-1113447348.html russia china moscow Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russian-chinese relations, russia-china relations, russia china relations, russian-chinese ties, russia-china ties, russia china ties, russian-chinese cooperation, russia-china cooperation, russia china cooperation, bilateral cooperation, are china and russia allies, lavrov-wang meeting, lavrov-wang negotiations, wang-lavrov meeting, wang-lavrov negotiations, multilateral world order, multilateral world, polycentric world order, polycentric world, no to us hegemony, russia-china alliance, china-russia alliance, unilateral hegemony, bloc confrontation, western arrogance, western hegemony, new world order, western hegemonic habits, system of international relations, international relations system, anti-russian bias, anti-chinese bias, anti-russian sentiment, anti-chinese sentiment Tacloban City (CNN Philippines, September 18) A Catholic priest under the Diocese of Borongan was expelled from his clerical duties by the Vatican, the diocese announced on Sunday. Notice is hereby given that the Holy Father Pope Francis has dismissed from the clerical state Pio Cultura Aclon of the Diocese of Borongan, said the circular signed by Fr. James Abella, Diocese of Borongan Chancellor. He is, therefore, no longer a cleric and cannot exercise priestly ministry in the Church, the circular added. The circular did not state the reason why Aclon was expelled from his priestly duties by the Roman Catholic Church, but according to the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines news website, the Filipino priest was dismissed over sexual abuse involving minors. Prior to his suspension, Aclon had served the minor seminary of the Diocese of Borongan. Aclon, in a Facebook post, demanded proof from the diocese that he was indeed dismissed by the Pope. "I give you 10 days to provide us the letter...I repeat send the letter of Pope Francis to me. Matters like this, are communicated to the concerned individual and not in the social media platform. The social media platform is never part of the procedural process on matters like this. The Bishop of Borongan should explain regarding this matter because he violated again not only my canonical right but also my civil right!" Aclon wrote in the post where he attached the notice signed by Abella. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/eu-ukraine-grain-row-may-spin-out-of-control-as-zelensky-threatens-wto-complaint---analyst-1113471135.html EU-Ukraine Grain Row May Spin Out of Control as Zelensky Threatens WTO Complaint - Analyst EU-Ukraine Grain Row May Spin Out of Control as Zelensky Threatens WTO Complaint - Analyst The row between Ukraine and its neighboring member countries of the European Union over their banning of Ukrainian grain imports is escalating quickly and may lead to a serious rift, as Kiev threatens to file a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO), Paris-based geopolitical analyst Nikola Mirkovic told Sputnik. 2023-09-18T17:23+0000 2023-09-18T17:23+0000 2023-09-18T17:23+0000 nikola mirkovic poland ukraine european union (eu) slovakia hungary ukrainian refugees in europe volodymyr zelensky world trade organization (wto) grain supply /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/102230/50/1022305011_0:137:3153:1910_1920x0_80_0_0_4b5a92d39c2024c061639082ee5df7a9.jpg Last week, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia extended their bans on cheap Ukrainian grain imports unilaterally after the European Commission refused to extend it at the bloc level. Ukrainian Deputy Economy Minister Taras Kachka said on Sunday that Kiev viewed their decision as unlawful and would dispute it with the WTO. He also said Ukraine might impose retaliatory sanctions to protect its economy. The European Commission's decision is weakening the bloc's entire agricultural sector, which has already been suffering, the expert argued. This is only one of the ways in which the European Union is "bleeding itself dry" to help Ukraine, in addition to supplying weapons and ammunition, Mirkovic said. He also said that European decision-makers were "silently exasperated" by Kievs attitude, after all the support it has received from Brussels, "but shut up for now." This is because the European Union "does not have a say in real decisions about the conflict," while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky "only reports to Washington and the Biden Administration," and has grown used to getting what he wants from the EU leaders, the expert argued. The upcoming parliamentary elections in Poland are another important factor in this situation, since they leave Warsaw with no room for maneuver, and force it to take a tough stance, the expert believes. It is also "not very wise" on Kiev's part to alienate Budapest at a time when the bilateral relationship is already "very bad," as "tensions are rising in Poland between the population and the millions of Ukrainian refugees that compete with the Poles for jobs," the expert said. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/poland-hungary-slovakia-decide-to-boycott-ukrainian-grain-coordination-platform---reports-1113468563.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230913/ukraine-grain-conflict-divides-eu-again-1113351729.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230902/polands-largest-facility-for-ukrainian-refugees-reportedly-closes-1113080565.html poland ukraine slovakia hungary Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International wto, wto complaint, eu-ukraine, grain row, ukrainian grain, poland won't import ukrainian grain, poland won't buy ukrainian grain, no to ukrainian grain, grain exports, food exports, grain supply, ukrainian grain, grain import, grain imports, polish-ukrainian economic relations, poland-ukraine economic relations, poland-ukraine relations, poland-ukraine ties, volodymyr zelensky, volodymyr zelenskyy, polish government, ukrainian agricultural products, import restrictions, agricultural products from ukraine, polish economy, influx of ukrainian grain, ukrainian grain influx, ukrainian refugees, hungary, poland, slovakia, ban grain from ukraine, ban ukrainian grain, no more ukrainian grain, no to ukrainian grain https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/kiev-fails-to-attract-neutral-countries-to-implement-its-peace-formula---russias-un-envoy-1113443519.html Ukraine Fails to Attract Neutral Countries to Implement Its 'Peace Formula' - Russia's UN Envoy Ukraine Fails to Attract Neutral Countries to Implement Its 'Peace Formula' - Russia's UN Envoy Kiev has failed to "pull" neutral countries and international organizations to implement its peace formula, Russian Ambassador to the United Nations Vassily Nebenzia told Sputnik. 2023-09-18T04:08+0000 2023-09-18T04:08+0000 2023-09-18T10:39+0000 world volodymyr zelensky antonio guterres ukraine russia the united nations (un) /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/05/0d/1095493989_0:0:3072:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_681e4eed53f7ebf2426ddc51aa7fbc3c.jpg "As for the meetings on Zelensky's peace formula, as far as we know, Kiev is still unsuccessfully trying to pull neutral countries and international organizations to implement the points of its plan," Nebenzia said in an interview. He called for an objective approach to anything the Ukrainians say about international support for Zelensky's formula, including a recent G20 statement. Nebenzya urged that "everything the Ukrainians say about international support for the so-called 'Zelensky Plan' should be checked against the facts," including "the recent section of the G20 statement on the Ukrainian crisis." "Everything else is 'from the evil one'," he concluded.Earlier, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration of the G20 summit. It states in connection with the events in Ukraine that all countries should refrain from the threat or use of force to acquire territory.The Russian Foreign Ministry said that the G7 countries were putting pressure on India to reflect their unilateral approaches to the situation around Ukraine in the final documents of the G20. The ministry noted that against this background the Indian side tried to stick to a neutral course based on the strictly economic mandate of the G20. In late June, talks on Ukraine were held in Copenhagen with the participation of the G7 countries, some BRICS countries and Ukraine itself. The participants discussed the ways of implementing the peace formula of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. After that, Saudi Arabia held its own meeting on the issue in Jeddah. Moscow considers the formula to be completely detached from reality.West Blocks Work on Russian-Chinese Resolution to Ease Sanctions on DPRKThe Western countries, under far-fetched pretexts, blocked work on a draft resolution of Russia and China on easing sanctions against North Korea, Nebenzia said.He also drew attention to the fact that despite the restraint shown by Pyongyang, there was no counter-movement from the West in terms of easing sanctions.In 2021, Russia and China submitted a draft resolution to the UN Security Council on the partial lifting of sanctions against North Korea. The authors of the resolution noted that the North Korean economy has been in poor condition in recent years. The resolution, among other things, proposed lifting the ban on North Korean workers working abroad, lifting sanctions on inter-Korean railway and road cooperation projects, and lifting a number of other restrictive measures.US Made No Offer to Russia to Meet on Sidelines of UNGA High-Level WeekThe United States has not offered Russia bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the high-level week of the UN General Assembly in New York, but Moscow will consider such an offer like any other, if it comes, Vassily Nebenzia said.The high-level week of the UNGA session will take place at the UN headquarters from September 18-26. The General Debate, to be addressed by the heads of delegations, will begin on September 19.The Russian delegation to the high-level week will be headed by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. He is expected to address the gathering on September 23.On UN's Claims That Saving World's Hungry Depends on Grain DealThe United Nations' statements that saving the world's hungry depends on the Black Sea Grain Initiative are false, Vassily Nebenzia said, adding that claims of a rise in market prices due to Russia's withdrawal from the initiative are also incorrect.Allegations that Russia's withdrawal from the initiative has led to an increase in prices are also false, he said, adding that they have actually continued to fall.At the same time, Nebenzia said that consultations on the grain deal between Russia and the UN were continuing.United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and his team do not have the leverage to solve systematic issues with the implementation of the Russian part of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, Nebenzia said.At the same time, Russia "does not sit idly by" and continues to provide real assistance to the least developed countries of Africa, Asia and the Middle East, the envoy added."Russian President [Vladimir Putin] covers these efforts in detail in his speeches. [He] also clearly stated conditions for Russia's return to the Black Sea [Grain] Initiative. We outlined them in detail here as well. This is not blackmail, as the West is trying to present it, but a demand to fulfill what we were promised a year ago," Nebenzia said.On July 18, the Turkiye- and UN-mediated Black Sea Grain Initiative, or the grain deal, which provided for a humanitarian corridor to allow exports of Ukrainian grain over the past year amid the Russian military operation expired as Russia did not renew its participation in the deal. Moscow said that the deal's component on facilitating Russian grain and fertilizer exports had not been fulfilled.UN Experts Not Confirming Claims of Pyongyang's Alleged Arms Supplies to MoscowExperts of the UN Security Council Sanctions Committee on North Korea are not confirming speculations on Pyongyang's alleged arms supplies to Russia, Russian Ambassador said."[Such allegations] are not confirmed even by the group of sanctions experts of the Security Council's special committee, which ... includes representatives of Western countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom," Nebenzia said.Russia will continue developing contacts with North Korea at the interstate level, as no United Nations Security Council resolution prohibits this, Nebenzia added.Pyongyang's recent easing of COVID-19 restrictions served as an incentive to restore contacts between Russia and North Korea at the interstate level, he said."[North Korea] is truly an important neighbor and partner, with whom Russia has had friendly relations for decades," the envoy added.A Russian delegation led by Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu visited North Korea from July 25-27, while North Korean leader Kim Jong Un paid a five-day visit to Russia from September 13-17, during which he met with President Vladimir Putin. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/russian-foreign-minister-has-extremely-busy-schedule-of-meetings-at-unga-1113443249.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230910/the-west-fails-to-make-ukraine-key-topic-at-g20-summit---lavrov--1113249059.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/putin-kim-meeting-major-reset-for-russia-dprk-relations-1113362547.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230913/ukraine-grain-conflict-divides-eu-again-1113351729.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230917/putin-face-to-face-soyuz-2--ballet-kim-jong-uns-big-agenda-russia-trip-1113432247.html ukraine russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International ambassador to the united nations vassily nebenzia, neutral countries, peace formula, kiev fails to attract neutral countries https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/kim-jong-un-expresses-appreciation-to-putin-russians-for-hospitality-1113448912.html Kim Jong Un Extends Heartfelt Thanks to Putin, Russians for Hospitality Kim Jong Un Extends Heartfelt Thanks to Putin, Russians for Hospitality North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin and the country's people for the hospitality they showed during his visit to the country and wished Russia prosperity and well-being to its nationals, North Korea's state-run news agency reported on Monday. 2023-09-18T08:38+0000 2023-09-18T08:38+0000 2023-09-18T09:20+0000 russia vladimir putin kim jong-un russia north korea /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/0d/1113336850_0:19:1025:595_1920x0_80_0_0_b758b4514ab79d3f3ae8ae737bd7bfc0.jpg This past Sunday, a delegation of Russian high-ranking officials saw Kim off, as the North Korean leader wrapped up his five-day visit to Russia and boarded his armored train, at the Artem-Primorsky-1 station located in Russia's Primorsky Territory. Kim's visit to Russia brought about "a new radical turn" in the development of Moscow-Pyongyang relations and consolidated "the traditional ties of good neighbor and cooperation" between the two countries, state media reported. This was Kim's first visit to Russia since 2019. On Wednesday, the North Korean leader held talks with Putin at the Vostochny spaceport in Russia's Far East. On Saturday, Kim met with Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and inspected Russian military aircraft. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230917/putin-face-to-face-soyuz-2--ballet-kim-jong-uns-big-agenda-russia-trip-1113432247.html russia north korea Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International kim jong un, russian president vladimir putin, russia prosperity, https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/kremlin-germany-doesnt-understand-reality-as-scholz-suggests-hardline-peace-proposal-1113450388.html Kremlin: Germany 'Doesn't Understand Reality', as Scholz Suggests Hardline Peace Proposal Kremlin: Germany 'Doesn't Understand Reality', as Scholz Suggests Hardline Peace Proposal German Chancellor Olaf Scholzs recent remarks on the conditions for the start of talks between Russia and Ukraine are proof that Berlin hardly understands the reality on the ground, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. 2023-09-18T13:27+0000 2023-09-18T13:27+0000 2023-09-18T13:27+0000 world germany russia olaf scholz dmitry peskov kremlin ukraine crisis volodymyr zelensky vladimir putin /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/12/1113450511_0:140:3147:1910_1920x0_80_0_0_ff0636787548e20b1ef27d3acc869b4d.jpg German Chancellor Olaf Scholzs recent remarks on the conditions for the start of talks between Russia and Ukraine are glaring proof that Berlin hardly understands the facts on the ground, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has said.The statements that triggered such a reaction from the Kremlin were made by Olaf Scholz at a federal congress of Ver.di, the second-largest German trade union, on Sunday. The Chancellor of the country that has been particularly badly hit by joining the campaign of anti-Russian Western sanctions unleased over the escalation of the Ukrainian conflict, and has even been branded the sick man of Europe by one British magazine, said that Russian withdrawal from Ukraine should be a precondition for peace talks.This is hardly the first time that Scholz presumed to speak of a Russian troop withdrawal as a possibility for talks that he was sure Ukrainian government will participate in.During remarks at the International Meeting of Religions and Cultures in Dialogue in Berlin on 12 September, Scholz also defended German arms deliveries to Ukraine, saying that his country will continue to support Ukraine for as long as necessary".Germanys Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock visited Ukraine for the fourth time since the escalation of the conflict there. Baerbock arrived in the capital Kiev on 11 September and uttered the same litany of pledges to support Ukraine. However, when it came to the supply of long-range Taurus cruise missiles to the regime in Kiev, the German official called it challenging as it takes time to agree on every detail.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been clamoring for Taurus missiles, which have a range of 500km (311 miles) and can strike deep inside the Russian territory. However, in August, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that he was not rushing to approve deliveries of the weapons out of fear of dragging NATO into a war with Russia.Ball in Ukraines Court Regarding TalksThe reality, though, is that NATO is engaged in a proxy war with Russia in Ukraine, funneling billions of dollars' worth of Western-made military aid to Kiev, and training its troops. These efforts have only escalated since Ukraine's over-hyped counteroffensive started this June and quickly turned into a meat grinder for Kiev's forces. According to data provided by the Russian Ministry of Defense, Ukraine has lost at least 43,000 troops since the beginning of the counteroffensive.Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov blasted the latter gathering as an attempt by the US, UK and their allies to pull as many nations as possible into summits to discuss Ukraine's peace formula.Russia has repeatedly indicated it would be open to diplomatic solutions, with Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova noting a "sustainable" peace effort would only be possible once the "Kiev regime stops hostilities" and Western allies cease their military build-up. Zakharova recently also weighed in on whether Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskys decree banning negotiations with Russia would be canceled in his country.The Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized in July that Moscow has repeatedly publicly voiced its readiness for talks with Kiev."After the withdrawal of our troops from near Kiev - and we were asked to do this to create conditions for the conclusion of a final agreement - the Kiev authorities abandoned all previous agreements," Putin said when meeting in St Petersburg with the heads of African delegations, adding that now, "the ball is completely in [Kiev's] court." https://sputnikglobe.com/20230913/ukraine-merely-pretends-to-strive-for-peace---russian-foreign-ministry-1113339234.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230916/not-for-counteroffensive-ukraine-needs-taurus-missiles-to-politically-show-military-capability-1113421461.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230729/putin-ball-now-on-ukraines-side-with-regard-to-talks-1112235097.html germany russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Svetlana Ekimenko Svetlana Ekimenko News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Svetlana Ekimenko german chancellor, olaf scholz, conditions for the start of ukraine peace talks, russia-ukraine talks, nato proxy war against russia in ukraine. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/lavrov-to-hold-talks-with-chinese-foreign-minister-wang-yi-in-moscow-1113445676.html Lavrov to Hold Talks With Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Moscow Lavrov to Hold Talks With Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Moscow Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit Russia on September 18-21 and take part in Russian-Chinese security consultations, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Monday. 2023-09-18T06:18+0000 2023-09-18T06:18+0000 2023-09-18T07:19+0000 russia wang yi nikolai patrushev russia china chinese foreign ministry russian security council russian foreign ministry moscow /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/105400/68/1054006875_0:0:2674:1504_1920x0_80_0_0_c1e4db732afa8f8c6f6e2e2c60e0256e.jpg "At the invitation of Russian Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev, Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and head of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee, will visit Russia on September 18-21 to hold the 18th round of Russia-China strategic security consultations," Mao Ning said in a statement on the Chinese Foreign Ministry's website. Chinese Foreign Minister's visit to Russia is aimed at promoting the development of bilateral relations and exchanging views on security interests, the ministry said.Earlier, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the Chinese Foreign Minister would visit Russia on September 18 to hold talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. The ministers would discuss strengthening cooperation in the international arena, joint work in international organizations and the Ukraine conflict, Zakharova added. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230917/russia-china-to-sign-cooperation-agreement-on-arctic-station-project-1113427818.html russia china moscow Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International chinese foreign minister wang yi, russian-chinese security consultations, chinese foreign ministry https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/over-160-ethiopian-soldiers-killed-by-al-shabaab-militants-in-western-somalia-1113443124.html Over 160 Ethiopian Soldiers Killed by Al-Shabaab Militants in Western Somalia Over 160 Ethiopian Soldiers Killed by Al-Shabaab Militants in Western Somalia More than 160 soldiers were killed in an ambush in western Somalia, while the surviving soldiers had been captured and the advance of Ethiopian troops had been stopped. The ATMIS have not yet commented on the attack. 2023-09-18T01:05+0000 2023-09-18T01:05+0000 2023-09-18T01:05+0000 africa ethiopia somalia military ambush african union transition mission in somalia (atmis) jihadist militants jihadist organization /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/09/0c/1100662414_0:0:3073:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_6b863a8edba80c9ee36b54023e0d0775.jpg The group also said that surviving Ethiopian soldiers had been captured and the advance of Ethiopian troops had been stopped, the report said, adding that the militants also destroyed Ethiopian military equipment and seized a large amount of weapons. The Ethiopian armed forces and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) have not yet commented on the attack, the report noted. The Ethiopian military tried to strengthen its forward operating base in the town of Wajid, which has been under militants control for almost a decade, the news portal reported. Al-Shabaab is a Somalia-based jihadist militant group linked to al-Qaeda terrorist group (banned in Russia). It wages armed resistance against the Somali government and obstructs UN humanitarian missions in the country. africa ethiopia somalia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International ethiopian soldiers, al-shabaab militants, western somalia, military ambush, jihadist group, jihadist attack https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/plane-with-us-detainees-released-under-us-iran-prisoner-swap-departs-from-tehran---reports-1113456521.html Plane With US Detainees Released Under US-Iran Prisoner Swap Departs From Tehran Plane With US Detainees Released Under US-Iran Prisoner Swap Departs From Tehran A Qatari plane with US detainees released as part of the US-Iran prisoner swap has departed from Iran, media reported on Monday, citing a source. 2023-09-18T13:17+0000 2023-09-18T13:17+0000 2023-09-18T14:17+0000 world iran qatar tehran iranian foreign ministry us /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/104574/87/1045748789_0:0:3071:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_f8464d1f514e76066b2952bb4261d82e.jpg An Iranian broadcaster, in turn, reported that two of the five Iranian detainees freed under the deal had landed in Doha.Five US prisoners who were freed as part of a prisoner exchange with Iran are on their way to Qatar, White House Strategic Communications Coordinator John Kirby said in an interview with US media."This is a significant development today. They are in the air, they are on their way to Qatar. We expect them to land in about an hour or so, and then they'll be making their way back to the United States after that," Kirby said.Meanwhile, Qatar has informed the United States and Iran that $6 billion in unfrozen Iranian funds have been transferred to bank accounts in Doha in connection to a prisoner swap deal between the two countries, a British news agency reported, citing sources familiar with the matter."Both parties have been notified by Qatar that all $6 billion has been transferred from Switzerland to bank accounts in Qatar," the source told the news agency.Iran plans to purchase medical supplies from Qatar using the unfrozen funds, a diplomatic source in Qatar told Sputnik.Last week, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi said that Tehran would spend $6 billion in funds to be released following the prisoner exchange agreement with the United States wherever the country considers necessary. Earlier that week, a US State Department spokesperson confirmed to Sputnik that Secretary of State Antony Blinken had signed a waiver advancing the prisoner exchange deal with Iran that lifted a hold on $6 billion of Iranian funds, which would be moved from bank accounts in South Korea to Qatar. The US authorities also said that Tehran would be able to spend the fund on humanitarian needs only, while the US would control the spending process. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230912/us-to-free-five-iranians-and-release-6bn-frozen-funds-in-prisoner-swap-deal-1113304554.html iran qatar tehran Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International us-iran relations, prisoners swap, doha, qatar https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/russia-hits-ukraines-storage-facilities-for-depleted-uranium-ammunition---mod-1113451251.html Russia Hits Ukraine's Storage Facilities for Depleted Uranium Ammunition - MoD Russia Hits Ukraine's Storage Facilities for Depleted Uranium Ammunition - MoD The Russian armed forces have attacked storage facilities with Storm Shadow cruise missiles and ammunition with depleted uranium in Ukraine, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Monday. 2023-09-18T11:08+0000 2023-09-18T11:08+0000 2023-09-18T11:19+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine ukraine russia russian defense ministry foreign ministry challenger 2 depleted uranium /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/07/1e/1112256022_0:158:3081:1891_1920x0_80_0_0_9293928e4bd0ca4760b7d71633e7c9b9.jpg The goal of the strike was achieved, the ministry said, adding that all objects were hit."Tonight [on Sunday night], the Russian armed forces carried out a group strike with high-precision long-range air-launched weapons, as well as attack unmanned aerial vehicles, on the storage sites of the Kiev regime with Storm Shadow cruise missiles, ammunition with depleted uranium, as well as centers for radio reconnaissance and training of sabotage groups of the Ukrainian armed forces," the ministry said in a statement. Earlier in September, the US Defense Department announced a new $175 million military aid package for Ukraine that includes depleted uranium munitions for Abrams tanks, as well as air defense equipment and 155mm artillery shells. Prior to that, the UK pledged that it would give Ukraine radioactive depleted uranium ammunition for the British main battle tanks Challenger 2.Russias President Vladimir Putin has warned that Moscow would react accordingly to the transfer of depleted uranium tank shells to Ukraine.Russian officials have warned of depleted uranium weapons dangers. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova noted late last month that the use of the weapons would turn portions of Ukraine into an "uninhabitable" wasteland, with "radioactive contamination of the soilalready happening" and being recorded.The Russian Defense Ministry also said that Ukraine has lost up to 255 military in the Donetsk direction over the past 24 hours.Over the given period, the Russian armed forces have repelled six attacks by Ukrainian military in the Donetsk direction and two attacks in the Krasnyi Lyman direction, the ministry said in a statement."Enemy losses [in the Donetsk direction] amounted to up to 255 military personnel, three armored combat vehicles and seven vehicles," the ministry's statement read.Ukraine has also lost over 180 soldiers both killed and injured in the South Donetsk direction in the past 24 hours, the ministry added. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230322/what-are-depleted-uranium-shells-and-how-hazardous-are-they-1108685054.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230917/fmr-cia-analyst-fears-us-may-give-ukraine-mini-nukes-after-shipping-cluster-bombs-du-1113441252.html ukraine russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russia hits ukraine's storage facilities, russian defense ministry, depleted uranium ammunition https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/russian-foreign-minister-has-extremely-busy-schedule-of-meetings-at-unga-1113443249.html Russian Foreign Minister Has Extremely Busy Schedule of Meetings at UNGA Russian Foreign Minister Has Extremely Busy Schedule of Meetings at UNGA Lavrov will have an "extremely busy" schedule of bilateral meetings during the upcoming week of the UNGA, Russian foreign minister will also participate in a number of important events in a multilateral format. 2023-09-18T02:23+0000 2023-09-18T02:23+0000 2023-09-18T02:23+0000 russia unga united nations general assembly (unga) sergey lavrov collective security treaty organization (csto) brics /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/0a/1113248556_0:132:2662:1629_1920x0_80_0_0_3bc7879464030a5d749b8fa05de638d8.jpg "As for bilateral contacts, I can say that Sergey Viktorovich Lavrovs schedule is extremely busy this year," Nebenzia said. In addition to bilateral meetings, the Russian foreign minister will also participate in a number of important events in a multilateral format, including meetings of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), BRICS and the Group of Friends in Defense of the UN Charter, the ambassador added. He noted that the high-level week of the UNGA is "a kind of UN's new year - the end of the previous and the beginning of the new annual negotiating cycle at the UN." The high-level week of the UNGA session will take place at the UN headquarters from September 18-26. The Russian delegation week will be headed by Lavrov. He is expected to address the gathering on September 23. Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International sergey lavrov, brics, collective security treaty organization, collective security treaty organization, csto, group of friends in defense of the un charter, upcoming un general assembly, unga, russian foreign minister https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/russian-foreign-ministry-summons-french-ambassador-over-g20-incident-with-reporters-1113469587.html Russian Foreign Ministry Summons French Ambassador Over G20 Incident With Reporters Russian Foreign Ministry Summons French Ambassador Over G20 Incident With Reporters MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Russian Foreign Ministry on Monday summoned French ambassador Pierre Levy over Frances refusal to apologize for actions in relation to Russian reporters, who were refused entry to French President Emmanuel Macrons press conference at the G20 summit. 2023-09-18T15:45+0000 2023-09-18T15:45+0000 2023-09-18T15:45+0000 russia russia emmanuel macron france russian foreign ministry freedom of speech freedom of press anti-russian bias segregation discrimination /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/0a/14/1080829009_0:59:3117:1812_1920x0_80_0_0_8894875f35248754ff881527e75ef06a.jpg "On September 18 Levy was summoned to the Russian Foreign Ministry, to whom a strong protest was expressed in connection with the discriminatory and blatantly Russophobic actions of representatives of the French authorities against Sputnik correspondents and the editor-in-chief of the Russia-News publication at the G20 summit in New Delhi, who were rudely refused entry to French President Emmanuel Macrons press conference," the ministry said in a statement. Frances refusal to apologize for the incident demonstrates firm intention "to adhere to the regime of segregation" in relation to the Russian media, the ministry added. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230907/macron-says-participation-of-russian-athletes-in-olympics-should-not-be-politicized-1113172474.html russia france Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International g20 summit, free press, freedom of speech, journalists, russian journalists, freedom of press, russian journalists, russian reporters, press conference, emmanuel macron, discrimination, discrimination against russians, freedom of press, freedom of speech, ant-russian bias, segregation Tokyo (CNN) More than 10% of Japans population is now age 80 or older, the government said Monday, the latest worrying milestone in the rapidly graying countrys demographic crisis. According to figures released by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the proportion of Japans elderly, defined as age 65 and above, is also at a record high, comprising 29.1% of the population the highest rate in the world. The ministry released the figures to mark Respect for the Aged Day, a public holiday in the country, which also faces a plummeting birth rate and shrinking workforce that could impact funding for pensions and health care as demand from the aging population surges. Japans population has been in steady decline since its economic boom of the 1980s, with a fertility rate of 1.3 far below the 2.1 needed to maintain a stable population, in the absence of immigration. Deaths have outpaced births in Japan for more than a decade, posing a growing problem for leaders of the worlds third-largest economy. The country also has one of the highest life expectancies in the world, contributing to the ballooning elderly population. To cope with the growing labor shortage and in the hopes of reinvigorating a stalling economy, the Japanese government has encouraged more seniors and stay-at-home mothers to re-enter the workforce in the past decade. To some extent, that messaging has worked: there are now a record 9.12 million elderly workers in Japan, a number that has grown for 19 consecutive years. Workers age 65 and up now make up more than 13% of the national workforce, the internal affairs ministry said Monday. Japans elderly employment rate is among the highest across major economies, it added. But even encouraging elderly workers isnt enough to offset the social and economic impacts of the demographic crisis, with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida warning in January that Japan is on the brink of not being able to maintain social functions. He added that child-rearing support was the governments most important policy, and solving the issue simply cannot wait any longer. Nearby, China, South Korea, Singapore and Taiwan are experiencing similar crises, struggling to encourage young people to have more children, in the face of rising living costs and social discontent. This story was first published on CNN.com, "Japan says one in 10 residents are aged 80 or above as nation turns gray." https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/spending-cuts--no-blank-check-for-ukraine-us-house-speakers-bid-to-avoid-govt-shutdown-1113446567.html 'Spending Cuts & No Blank Check for Ukraine': US House Speaker's Bid to Avoid Govt Shutdown 'Spending Cuts & No Blank Check for Ukraine': US House Speaker's Bid to Avoid Govt Shutdown Spending cuts and no supplementary Ukraine aid are part of the deal proposed by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to extend government funding beyond the September 30 deadline 2023-09-18T12:13+0000 2023-09-18T12:13+0000 2023-09-18T12:17+0000 americas us kevin mccarthy government shutdown gop /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/12/1113446672_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_471cd53e24cafc27c1ca2ec88e7d4524.jpg The race is on to avert a US government shutdown before the looming September 30 deadline, with Kevin McCarthy and his allies having reportedly come up with a new short-term spending plan they hope to push through the House of Representatives amid the funding logjam.The deal that the US House Speaker purportedly presented to Republican lawmakers in a private conference call on Sunday evening would extend the deadline to fund the government until October 31, and was brainstormed jointly by a coalition representing the House Freedom Caucus, generally considered as the most conservative, and the more mainstream Main Street Caucus.The stopgap deal presupposes:The proposed agreement also reportedly presupposes passing an appropriations bill to fund the Department of Defense (DOD) for fiscal 2024 in tandem with the continuing resolution (CR) bill, according to a cited GOP source. Deal Dead on Arrival?Republicans have reportedly slated a vote on the proposed plan Thursday, however, there is already resistance in their ranks to the continuing resolution deal from six lawmakers.For months, I have made it very clear that I will not be supporting a CR. And this week is no different. A CR is a continuation of Nancy Pelosis budget and Joe Bidens policies, wrote Montana Republican, Representative Matt Rosendale, on the X platform after the Sunday call.Democrats wasted no time in dismissing the proposed plan, with Representative Rosa DeLauro, senior Democrat on the Appropriations Committee, saying that House Republicans were "focused on introducing extreme funding bills" that would "decrease resources to important allies like Ukraine."With the GOP holding a narrow majority in the House, McCarthy can only afford to lose the support of four Republicans. But when it comes to the Democratic-led Senate, it's highly unlikely the proposed plan might be accepted. Earlier, amid opposition to a continuing resolution by the House Freedom Caucus, Kevin McCarthy said nobody in Congress wants a government shutdown. The Freedom Caucus had released a statement voicing opposition to the potential stopgap funding bill that does nothing to address the government spending issue, adding that any blank check for Ukraine in any supplemental appropriations bill would also be rejected.McCarthy, however, encouraged lawmakers to continue working on appropriations bills, as the clock is ticking away. Out of 12 appropriations bills that need to be approved and signed, only one measure has cleared the House so far, with the Senate passing none. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230904/us-commerce-secretary-warns-of-looming-government-shutdown-worries-among-business-leaders-1113098071.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230823/mccarthy-on-house-freedom-caucus-funding-concerns-nobody-wants-government-shutdown-1112831892.html americas Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Svetlana Ekimenko Svetlana Ekimenko News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Svetlana Ekimenko spending cuts, deal proposed by house speaker, kevin mccarthy, to extend government funding, looming september 30 deadline, to avert government shutdown https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/ukraine-sucks-oxygen-out-of-room-while-other-countries-lack-aid-1113472515.html Ukraine Sucks 'Oxygen Out of Room,' While Other Countries Lack Aid Ukraine Sucks 'Oxygen Out of Room,' While Other Countries Lack Aid Ukraine has siphoned off all resources allocated for humanitarian efforts, although there are other hot spots across the globe that are in urgent need for assistance as well, Executive Director of the World Food Programme (WFP) Cindy McCain stressed. 2023-09-18T17:41+0000 2023-09-18T17:41+0000 2023-09-18T17:41+0000 world food programme (wfp) ukraine cindy mccain ukrainian crisis ukrainian conflict world food crisis humanitarian aid humanitarian crisis /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/02/19/1093376520_0:0:2784:1566_1920x0_80_0_0_83d7094a28baf88a1c4544f9f374c9ef.jpg "Ukraine, for better or worse, has sucked the oxygen out of the room. And... we certainly understand the need to support Ukraine. But there's other hot spots in the world that are deeply and as much desperate as Ukraine is," McCain told an American news agency on Sunday. McCain said that she had visited many countries where she had seen women with children fleeing from terrorist groups, which sometimes could be the only actors providing food for the local population. The official called it "an absolute national security issue." On September 12, the WFP said that the organization was being forced to cut the rations of its operations of humanitarian funding, with every 1% cut in food assistance possibly pushing 400,000 people toward the brink of starvation. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230721/how-uk-is-complicit-in-ukraines-war-crimes-against-children-1112047482.html ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International wfp, world food programme, food supply, humanitarian aid, aid to ukraine, food for ukraine, food to ukraine, aid for ukraine, humanitarian crisis, humanitarian catastrophe, food crisis, food shortage, shortage of food, lack of food, lack of funding, funding for humanitarian aid, ukrainian fatigue, ukraine fatigue, fatigue with ukraine https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/ukraine-threatens-to-complain-to-wto-after-three-eu-states-ban-its-grain-import-1113450242.html Ukraine Threatens Formal Complaint to WTO After Three EU States Ban Grain Exports Ukraine Threatens Formal Complaint to WTO After Three EU States Ban Grain Exports The Ukrainian authorities are planning to begin the process of filing a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO) on Monday over the ban of Ukrainian grain imports by Poland, Hungary and Slovakia, Ukrainian Deputy Economy Minister Taras Kachka has said. 2023-09-18T10:24+0000 2023-09-18T10:24+0000 2023-09-18T10:57+0000 world european union (eu) world trade organization (wto) hungary poland ukraine /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/19254/43/192544306_0:184:3500:2153_1920x0_80_0_0_d94ff309b91459445fa51086d39a939b.jpg "It is important to prove that these actions are legally wrong. And that's why we will start legal proceedings tomorrow [on Monday]," Kachka told a newspaper on Sunday. He added that "all the world" should see how the EU member states treat their trade partners and the bloc itself. The official called the bans "ridiculous," adding that they would probably affect a significant part of Ukraine's exports, forcing Kiev to introduce retaliatory sanctions and prohibit the import of fruits and vegetables from Poland. Later on Monday, WTO told Sputnik that it had not received any request from Ukraine to initiate dispute proceedings over the ban of the country's grain imports.Earlier, Polish Agriculture Minister Robert Telus said that Poland would not let Ukraine into the EU unless the issue of grain exports is resolved. "If we do not create these tools today, Poland will definitely not agree to Ukraine's accession (to the European Union). We need to create tools today, because we will live longer with Ukrainian products. When Poland joined the EU, we had to meet the conditions. And these conditions were very hard. And we have to set conditions for Ukraine," Telus said.On September 15, the European Commission announced it would lift a ban on duty-free Ukrainian grain imports to five neighboring countries of the European Union, as well as a demand that Kiev introduce export controls. Following the decision, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia announced the unilateral extension of the ban. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230915/poland-introduces-ban-on-import-of-ukrainian-grain-starting-saturday-1113404414.html hungary poland ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International ukraine threatens, world trade organization, ukrainian grain imports https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/ukrainian-child-snatching-drama-eu-faces-social-explosion-triggered-by-refugee-crisis-1113472181.html Ukrainian Child Snatching Drama: EU Faces Social Explosion Triggered by Refugee Crisis Ukrainian Child Snatching Drama: EU Faces Social Explosion Triggered by Refugee Crisis Over four million Ukrainians are presently living in EU countries, with Germany and Poland accounting for about half of the total. Asked to comment on the scandal involving European social services snatching of Ukrainian refugees children, journalist Alexander Sosnowski said the issue is only a small microcosm of a much bigger social problem. 2023-09-18T17:47+0000 2023-09-18T17:47+0000 2023-09-18T17:47+0000 world germany ukraine european union (eu) ukrainian embassy refugees /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/12/1113472014_0:161:3071:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_914e5c66f0bc7bb2d57f98932bcf058d.jpg Hundreds of Ukrainian women living as refugees in EU countries have had their children taken away from them by social services over the past year, with some recounting horror stories of authorities splitting families for transgressions by parents as mild as keeping kids home from school for extended periods without a good excuse, or unsubstantiated suspicions of abuse.Earlier this year, Ukraines Human Rights Commissioner reported that at least 240 children had been removed from the custody of their parents or guardians in EU countries and placed in the hands of the state. Affected women have complained that appeals for help from the Ukrainian Embassy and public organizations have often done little good in getting their children back, and cited German authorities as being among the strictest and most inflexible.Alexander Sosnowski, a Germany expert, author and chief editor of the World Economy online magazine, told Sputnik that while the problem of social services unjustly breaking up families certainly exists, its not something worth blowing out of proportion.According to German statistics for 2022in all there were 40,000-odd such cases [of temporary removals of children from families, ed.], among which, more than 90 percent were returned to their families within three weeks, and the rest placed in the hands of appropriate organizations, which would care for these children until their future fate could be determined, Sosnowski said.Part of the problem, according to Sosnowski, is that due to the laxity of German monitoring of refugees (Ukrainian or otherwise), no one really knows just how many of them are really living in Germany and planning to live and work for the benefit of the country, and how many are there to collect social assistance and leave. This is something the Austrian and German press has written about several times, he said.If a family of three arrives, theyll receive approximately 1,500 euros in social assistance, plus paid accommodation, free medicine, fare for public transport and other little things. That is, if a family of three costs the state approximately 30,000-35,000 euros a year, more than half of that remains with the family in the form of cash. Is this enough to save up and return something to Ukraine? I dont know. It depends on each specific family. But this is very decent money, the observer stressed.On top of that is the organized criminal element. It did not start with Ukrainian refugees, and has always existed in Germany, with every new wave of refugees inevitably leading to people making money off it with the help of dead souls. This is a good business in which sooner or later, every refugee diaspora starts to make money, Sosnowski noted.But the party cant last forever, because the social welfare systems of European countries, including Germanys, are not bottomless.Germany more than other European countries is suffering a demographic crisis. The population is aging at a frightening pace. And the money being paid out today, including to refugees, of course affects the nations pension funds. To what extent I cannot say exactlyWhat can we expect to happen next? Pension-age Germans, for whom pensions are not likely to be large, and for some at minimum levels, are also tied to social benefits. In other words, this is a time bomb that sooner or later may lead to a social explosion in relation to refugees, at the level of inter-ethnic groups and groups of different ages within the state, Sosnowski stressed. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230917/ukrainian-refugees-in-europe-sound-alarm-as-child-welfare-services-snatch-their-children-1113441902.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230915/europe-snubs-ukraines-demand-to-extradite-draft-dodgers-1113395120.html germany ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Ilya Tsukanov Ilya Tsukanov News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ilya Tsukanov european union, germany, ukraine, refugees, crisis, problems, issues, social services, financial cost https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/ukrainian-forces-shell-donetsk-city-center-1113453212.html Ukrainian Forces Shell Donetsk City Center Ukrainian Forces Shell Donetsk City Center Ukrainian troops fired three MLRS shells at the center of Donetsk at 14.50, the DNR representative office in the Joint Center for Control and Coordination of Issues Related to Ukrainian War Crimes (JCCC) reported. 2023-09-18T13:09+0000 2023-09-18T13:09+0000 2023-09-18T13:09+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine ukrainian crisis donetsk russia ukraine ukrainian counteroffensive attempt ukrainian conflict civilians multiple-launch rocket systems (mlrs) joint center for control and coordination (jccc) /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/08/03/1112367830_0:173:3030:1877_1920x0_80_0_0_5544e02486364c9a0091d1960116f7f0.jpg "Armed Forces of Ukraine fired three MLRS rockets in the direction of the Konstantinovka settlement in Donetsk city (Voroshilovsky district) at 14:50 (11.50 GMT)," the office stated on its Telegram channel.The type of MLRS was not specified. There has been no data about the consequences of the shelling yet. Donetsk Mayor Alexei Kulemzin wrote on his Telegram channel that the city center was under fire: "Pushkin Boulevard is under attack," he said. According to preliminary data, there were no casualties or anyone injured in the shelling of Donetsk city center, DPR leader, Denis Pushilin, said. donetsk russia ukraine konstantinovka Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russia special military operation, ukrainian crisis, failed counteroffensive, ukrainian counteroffensive, us weapons, nato equipment, nato-supplied military equipment, us arms for ukraine, foiled counteroffensive, counteroffensive attempt, thwarted counteroffensive, counteroffensive effort, nato arms for ukraine, nato support for ukraine, europe for ukraine, donetsk, shelling, killings of civilians, civilian infrastructure, civilians dead, civilians die, ukraine kills civilians https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/us-lawmaker-briefed-on-missing-f-35-jet-says-marines-still-do-not-know-aircrafts-location-1113474180.html US Lawmaker Briefed on Missing F-35 Jet Says Marines Still Do Not Know Aircraft's Location US Lawmaker Briefed on Missing F-35 Jet Says Marines Still Do Not Know Aircraft's Location US Congresswoman Nancy Mace said on Monday that the Marines Corps still does not know the location of the F-35 aircraft that went missing over South Carolina on Sunday afternoon. 2023-09-18T18:36+0000 2023-09-18T18:36+0000 2023-09-18T18:36+0000 us marine corps charleston f-35 americas us pentagon us military base south carolina us military us department of defense (dod) /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/03/05/1082267576_0:161:3067:1886_1920x0_80_0_0_73a463cae91153a771855a884db183ce.jpg The fighter jet was in autopilot mode when the pilot ejected, meaning that it could have remained airborne for some time, according to media reports. The congresswoman added that no one knows if the missing F-35 fighter jet is in the air or under the water. Based on the last known position of the stealth fighter jet, the US military is focusing its search in the area around Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion, Joint Base Charleston said via the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. The US military is now asking the public to cooperate with military authorities as they continue their search and asked anyone with information that could assist the effort to call the Joint Base Charleston Base Defense Operations Center. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/how-do-you-lose-an-f-35-jet-netizens-react-to-news-about-missing-aircraft-in-south-carolina-1113444620.html charleston americas south carolina Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International f-35 jet, american jet, south carolina, us authorities, f-35b stealth fighter jet, stealth fighter jet, f-35b, missing jet, jet gone missing, wheres the jet, where's the jet https://sputnikglobe.com/20230918/watch-russian-artillery-strikes-destroy-ukrainian-forces-attempting-to-advance-1113449182.html Watch Russian Artillery Strikes Destroy Ukrainian Forces Attempting to Advance Watch Russian Artillery Strikes Destroy Ukrainian Forces Attempting to Advance Russian Ministry of Defense has published footage that shows powerful Russian artillery strikes that smash Ukrainian attempts to advance in the area of Artemovsk (Bakhmut). 2023-09-18T14:07+0000 2023-09-18T14:07+0000 2023-09-18T14:07+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine ministry of defense russian defense ministry ukraine russia video /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/12/1113447573_0:0:1907:1072_1920x0_80_0_0_3d93d48b7ffc76d6f376a2349f75eb18.png The Russian Ministry of Defense has released footage showing powerful Russian artillery strikes smashing Ukrainian attempts to advance in the area of Artemovsk (Bakhmut)."The artillerymen of the 2nd Army Corps are destroying the positions of the Ukrainian forces, which are trying to attack in the direction of Artemovsk, with precise strikes. Their fire is being blocked by UAV operators," the Russian Defense Ministry said. ukraine russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 A powerful Russian artillery strike smashes a Ukrainian attempt to advance in the area of Artemovsk A powerful Russian artillery strike smashes a Ukrainian attempt to advance in the area of Artemovsk 2023-09-18T14:07+0000 true PT0M22S 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russian artillery strikes, ukrainian forces, russian ministry of defense Preferred pacers highlighted the 11-race Sunday (Sept. 17) card at Rideau Carleton Raceway, with Shotgun Jerry teaming up with Stephane Pouliot to pull off the 11-1 upset victory. Leaving from the rail in the field of seven in the $10,000 Preferred Handicap, Pouliot landed Shotgun Jerry in the pocket to the opening quarter as Lovemyrockinbird and Pascal Berube led to that station in :27.3. Lovemyrockinbird continued to have things his way up front to the halfway point in :57.3 as Shotgun Jerry patiently waited in the pocket. Race favourite The Light Speed and Guy Gagnon were the first to move from third, engaging Lovemyrockinbird at three-quarters in 1:24.4. As the field turned for home, Shotgun Jerry surged up the passing lane for Pouliot with a :28.2 final quarter to get the jump on the field in a scramble for the wire. Shotgun Jerry prevailed by a half-length in 1:53.2. The Light Speed finished second, with Lovemyrockinbird holding for third. Shotgun Jerry returned $25.60 for his backers at the windows. The victory was the eighth in 2023 for Shotgun Jerry, who is also trained by Pouliot for owner 9096 9205 Quebec Inc. Shotgun Jerry is a four-year-old gelded son of Royal Mattjesty-Michiko and pushed his career bankroll into six figures with the victory, now banking $101,924. To view Sunday's harness racing results for Rideau Carleton, click the following link: Sunday Results - Rideau Carleton Raceway. Live harness racing continued on Sunday, Sept. 17 at Flamboro Downs, with driver Tyler Borth sweeping the two divisions of the Prospect Series for sophomore filly trotters to highlight the nine-race card. The Ballykeel Deal and Borth kicked off the Prospect action with a gate-to-wire win in the $8,600 first division. Starting from post four in the field of five, Borth wasted no time getting The Ballykeel Deal to the front, taking command through an opening quarter of :29.3, The Ballykeel Deal remained loose on the lead through the middle half of the mile in :59.4 and 1:29.3. The Ballykeel Deal had plenty left in the tank for the final quarter, opening up her lead to 3-1/2 lengths with a :29.3 final quarter to score in hand in 1:59.1. Pajamas Optional and Jeffrey O'Brien finished second, with Kenogami Courage and Colin Kelly finishing third. The Ballykeel Deal paid $2.10 to win as the heavy favourite. Trained by Katie MacNeil for owner Ballykeel Racing Inc., which also bred the daughter of Wheeling N Dealin-Ballykeel Majestic, The Ballykeel Deal scored her fifth victory in 11 season starts. With the victory, The Ballykeel Deal now boasts a career bankroll of $41,682. Borth swept the Prospect action on the evening, deploying off the pace tactics to score in the $8,700 second division aboard April Duford. Saddled with the far outside post six, Borth landed in the fifth position in the early stages as Champagne Bettina and Preston Shaw took command through a :30.3 opening quarter. Champagne Bettina continued to lead to the half in 1:01 before Angelic KT and Bruce Richardson challenged first-up to three-quarters in 1:30.3 with April Duford in tow second-over. Angelic KT forged to the lead at the top of the lane; however, Borth unleashed a furious rally with April Duford off cover. April Duford powered home in :29.2 to collar Angelic KT by a head on the wire in 2:00.4. Sant Ambroggio and Daniel O'Brien finished third. April Duford paid $5 to win. The victory was the sixth in 22 seasonal starts for the three-year-old rookie trained by Ashley Duford. April Duford has now banked $37,940 for owner Dennis Duford. To view Sunday's harness racing results for Flamboro Downs, click the following link: Sunday Results - Flamboro Downs. The Quebec Jockey Club announced on Monday, Sept. 18 that Hippodrome 3R will host a pair of additional race dates over the next few weeks. The 2023 live racing schedule for Hippodrome 3R has been amended to add race dates on Friday, Sept. 29 with post time at 3 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 7 with post time at 1 p.m. Click here for an updated copy of the 2023 live racing schedule for Hippodrome 3R. (With files from Quebec Jockey Club) (CNN) NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has warned that the war in Ukraine could be long, as Kyivs counteroffensive against Russia continues to make only marginal gains. Ukraines allies have sought to accentuate campaign gains in recent weeks, but it has been underway for months with no major breakthroughs. The fall will bring changing conditions on the ground and the possibility that Russia will once again try to pummel Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Most wars last longer than is expected when they first start. Therefore, we must prepare ourselves for a long war in Ukraine, Stoltenberg said in an interview with German newspaper Berliner Morgenpost published Sunday. We are all wishing for a quick peace. But at the same time, we must recognize: If President Zelensky and the Ukrainians give up the fight, their country would not exist anymore. If President Putin and Russia laid down their weapons, we would have peace, the NATO chief said. The easiest way to end this war would be if Putin withdrew his troops, he added. On the possibility of Putin using nuclear weapons in Ukraine, Stoltenberg said: Putins nuclear rhetoric is dangerous and ruthless, but NATO is prepared for every threat and challenge. The point of NATO is to prevent war not least nuclear war. We have a credible deterrent. The NATO chief reiterated that it is just a matter of time before Ukraine joins the alliance. Ukraine will become a member of NATO all allies have made that clear, he said, adding that Ukraine will need safety guarantees when the war ends, otherwise history could repeat itself. Addressing the idea of a possible nuclear threat by the Russians, Stoltenberg said: We have sent a clear message to Russia: A nuclear war cannot be won and must never happen. Moscow must understand that the use of nuclear weapons is unacceptable. We are observing very closely what the Russian army is doing. Until now we have not noticed any changes to Russias nuclear forces that would prompt us to react. Clock is ticking Ukraine has made only incremental gains against Russia in its counteroffensive so far and the wins have come at great cost. On Friday, Ukrainian troops announced they had retaken the village of Andriivka, south of the city of Bakhmut, the first such announcement of a recaptured settlement for several weeks. The clock is ticking for Ukraine to make a significant gain, with the fall bringing worsening weather and even more challenging fighting conditions. The United States top general believes Ukraine has just six weeks left before changing weather hampers its counteroffensive. There is still a reasonable amount of time, about 30 to 45 days worth of fighting weather left, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley told the BBC. After that, mud and rain would likely have an impact on battlefield maneuverability, he said. Ukraine though has signaled it is prepared to fight on regardless of the weather. Kyrylo Budanov, head of military intelligence, acknowledged the counteroffensive was moving more slowly than he would like. Russias defensive lines were well-planned, he said, and heavily laid with mines, which made the situation on the battlefield complicated. But even though cold weather was a reality the military cannot ignore, hostilities will continue, the counteroffensive will continue, he said. A looming US election in 2024 has also cast doubt on how much longer Ukraine will receive the support of one of its strongest allies. NATO, and in particular the US, have provided essential military aid to Ukraine to aid its fight against Russia. This story was first published on CNN.com. Susanna Gibson, the Henrico Democrat whose sex videos with her husband made national news, raised nearly $600,000 from July 1 through Aug. 31, the third-highest total for any candidate for the House of Delegates, according to new campaign finance reports posted by the Virginia Public Access Project. The reporting period ended 11 days before The Washington Post first reported that Gibson and her husband performed sex acts online and asked viewers for tips. But the fundraising numbers underscore how much Democrats already have invested in the nurse practitioners campaign in House District 57 against Republican David Owen, former part owner of Boone Homes. All 140 seats for the House and the state Senate are up for election in November. During this years legislative session, Republicans held a four-seat edge in the House, and Democrats held a four-seat edge in the state Senate. The fight for control of the legislature is key to the agenda of Gov. Glenn Youngkin, whose term expires in January 2026. Gibson reported a starting balance of $77,435 as of July 1. During the reporting period, she received $595,304. Gibsons largest donations between July 1 and Aug. 31 were $188,000 from the Clean Virginia Fund. Michael Bills, a wealthy Charlottesville-based investor, founded Clean Virginia in an effort to counter utility Dominions influence in Virginia politics. Gibsons next-largest donations in the reporting period were a total of $70,000 from Bills wife, Sonjia Smith, a philanthropist, former lawyer and longtime donor to progressive Democrats. Gibsons campaign had $467,747 in cash on hand as of Aug. 31, which ranked fourth among all candidates for the House, according to VPAP. Owen, who began with a balance of $166,179 as of July 1, raised $188,288 in the reporting period to rank 20th among House candidates, according to VPAP. Owen finished the reporting period with $247,924 in cash on hand to rank 25th among House candidates. (The VPAP list includes some House candidates who are not seeking reelection, such as former Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn, D-Fairfax.) Owens largest contributions in the period came from veteran GOP delegates $25,000 from retiring Del. Rob Bell, R-Albemarle; $25,000 from House Speaker Todd Gilbert, R-Shenandoah; and $20,000 from House Majority Leader Terry Kilgore, R-Scott. While top Virginia Democrats have remained largely silent on Gibson since the news of the videos a number of womens political organizations such as Emilys List and the Virginia chapter of the National Organization for Women, have reasserted their support of Gibson in recent days. The Virginia chapter of NOW denounced what it termed the attacks on candidate Susanna Gibson and reaffirmed its support for the undeterred woman running in the 57th District. In light of the anonymous, personal attack on Virginias Susanna Gibson this week, it is important that we call out these tactics for what they are: another attempt to silence a strong woman who threatens the balance of power, said Lisa Sales, president and PAC chair of Virginia NOW. Its clear to us she is being attacked because she is an abortion rights advocate who is gaining momentum in an election that is increasingly about maintaining Virginia as the last Southern state with access to legal abortion and which offers safe harbor for girls, women, and pregnant people facing crisis pregnancies. Collectively, Democratic candidates for the House and Senate had significant advantages over their GOP counterparts in cash raised and in cash on hand during the reporting period, according to VPAP. For example, Democratic Senate candidates reported raising $7.5 million to Republican candidates $4.8 million. But with Youngkins Spirit of Virginia PAC raising money at a record-breaking pace, the GOP will likely have the money it needs to compete in targeted contests. Youngkins PAC began the reporting period with about $6.26 million in cash on hand. It raised about $3.77 million during the reporting period and had a balance of $6.3 million as of Aug. 31. Youngkin, who has joined Virginia Democrats in promoting early voting, on Monday brings his Secure Your Vote bus tour to battleground Henrico, where he will campaign with Owen; Riley Shaia, who faces Del. Rodney Willett, D-Henrico, in House District 58; and with Sen. Siobhan Dunnavant, R-Henrico, who faces Del. Schuyler VanValkenburg in Senate District 16. Bahra represents the growing liberal movement within Syria since the fall of Baghdad in 2003, according to Abdul Mun'eem Issa in al-Watan. On September 12th, the opposition Syrian Coalition conducted elections to choose a new president, following a month-long delay and away from media attention. This election aimed to find a successor to Salem al-Meslet, whose request for a one-year term extension had been rejected by Ankara. The implications of this move ripple through Turkeys new approach to the Syrian crisis, shedding light on the complex and interconnected issues it faces. These dynamics sometimes make it challenging to address them as a cohesive whole and at other times necessitate a more nuanced approach. While delving into the intricate details leading up to the election and the election session itself isnt the primary focus here, its important to note that both hold connotations that hint at significant shifts within the entitys structure, altering its composition and power dynamics. Consequently, the entitys policies are taking shape and evolving in response to the changing stances and policies of influential nations involved in the Syrian crisis, notably Turkey, the United States, and to some extent, Qatar, which plays a secondary financial role. The outcome of this election was the declaration of Hadi al-Bahras victory as the head of the Syrian Coalition, with his term extending until September of the following year. Bahra is no stranger to this role, having previously served as president in July 2014. During his absence from the presidency, he remained within the inner circle of decision-makers within the entity. Several factors might have contributed to his selection, including his biography, which suggests that he could be a valuable asset or a wild card to be deployed when needed. Bahras educational background is rooted in the United States, but his professional experience is closely tied to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where he took his initial steps in the realm of politics. In May 2013, the National Council, later renamed the Syrian Coalition, underwent its second expansion. This transformation followed US Secretary of State Hillary Clintons call, issued in Zagreb, urging the council to attract new segments, including the so-called liberals. These liberals can be categorized into two groups: those who adopted liberal values as a reflection of their socio-economic background, and those who embraced liberalism as a result of temporary circumstances, coupled with a reading of the political climate. Bahra falls into the latter category, representing a significant segment of the growing liberal movement within Syria since the fall of Baghdad in 2003. Bahras appointment to lead the coalition represented a convergence of Turkish and American interests. Ankara aimed to tighten its control over the coalition, as evidenced by its recent efforts to consolidate the Syrian regions it occupies under a single governor, as opposed to the previous fragmented approach. Similarly, Washington viewed this move as a way to diminish the coalitions role, which had largely become a media institution, with many of its critics residing in foreign hotels and relying heavily on social media. Consequently, the coalition lost its influence on the ground and in policy decisions, reduced to issuing statements and endorsing decisions and laws that often exacerbated the Syrian crisis. This shift also coincided with the increasing prominence of the High Negotiating Committee, whose composition had become more acceptable to the United States and the broader Western community, thanks to the growing influence of the liberal factions over the past two years. Over the last three years, the Syrian Coalition has grappled with numerous crises stemming from the conflicting ideologies and visions within its ranks. These internal tensions have persisted despite a shared overarching goal. The erosion of this common objective has allowed these contradictions to surface and take center stage in the coalitions internal dynamics. 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 head of the Lebanese druze community expressed his unwavering confidence in the wisdom of Hijri, according to Baladi News. Hundreds of demonstrators gathered at al-Karama Square in Suweida on Monday, marking the 30th consecutive day of protests against the Assad regime. Baladi News correspondent on the ground observed banners being raised during the demonstration, emphasizing the urgent need to implement Security Council Resolution 2254, hold accountable those responsible for crimes, and honor the Syrian peoples demand for freedom. Additionally, our correspondent witnessed images of the iconic leader of the Great Syrian Revolution, Sultan Pasha al-Atrash, and the renowned Lebanese leader Kamal Jumblatt being displayed. Demonstrators also exhibited symbolic artwork satirizing Bashar al-Assad. In a heartwarming gesture of solidarity, an anonymous expatriate, whose identity remains undisclosed, provided meals to the protesters, demonstrating moral support for their cause. The protests in Suweida have endured for a full month, setting a significant milestone in the citys history. Despite sporadic protests over the past decade, this sustained momentum and widespread participation mark a unique moment in the citys ongoing struggle. Notably, the demonstrations have garnered support from Druze monotheistic Muslim sect leaders and have resonated with Syrians across various regions. Sheikh al-Aql of the Almohad sect in Lebanon On the other hand, Sheikh Sami Abi al-Muna, representing the Druze Almohad sect, engaged in a discussion with one of Syrias notable al-Aql sheikhs, Hikmat al-Hijri, concerning the ongoing developments in the governorate of Suweida, where protests demanding the regimes downfall have persisted for nearly a month. During a phone conversation held on Monday, Abi al-Muna and Hijri emphasized the paramount importance of maintaining a peaceful approach. They underscored the significance of setting a high standard of patriotism, preserving the dignity of the people, and transcending any acts of abuse for the greater well-being of the mountain region and the entire homeland, as reported by the Lebanese website al-Mada. Abu a-Muna expressed his unwavering confidence in the wisdom of Hijri and the esteemed sheikhs of Jabal al-Arab, renowned for their patriotic dedication, as well as the righteous individuals of Suweida. 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. Bin Farhan and Pedersen convened at the Kingdom's permanent delegation to the United Nations in New York, according to Athr Press. Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan held discussions with UN Special Envoy to Syria Geir Pedersen regarding the latest developments in the Syrian situation. He emphasized his countrys readiness to make every possible effort to resolve the Syrian crisis. Bin Farhan and Pedersen convened at the Kingdoms permanent delegation to the United Nations in New York, on the sidelines of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly. During their meeting, they delved into the current advancements in the political resolution of the Syrian crisis. The discussions also encompassed the collaborative efforts of Saudi Arabia and the United Nations in this context, including the outcomes of the Arab summit in Jeddah, as reported by the Saudi agency SPA. In the meeting, the Saudi foreign minister underlined his nations dedication to exert all efforts towards achieving a political solution to the Syrian crisis that upholds Syrias unity, security, stability, and Arab identity while fostering prosperity and development for its fraternal people. In August, the Saudi Foreign Ministry disclosed on its X platform account that Bin Farhan had met with his Syrian counterpart, Faisal al-Mekdad, engaging in a productive exchange of views on matters of mutual interest. Last May, Saudi Arabia announced the resumption of diplomatic activities at its mission in Syria. The decision was made in accordance with the resolutions passed during the ministerial meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of Arab States, held in Cairo on March 7. This decision marked Syrias reintegration into the meetings of the Council of the League of Arab States and all its affiliated organizations and bodies. It was aligned with the principles outlined in the charters of the United Nations, the League of Arab States, and international conventions and norms. 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. Hong Kong (CNN) Chinas top diplomat Wang Yi and United States national security adviser Jake Sullivan met for two days of talks in Malta over the weekend, as the worlds two leading economies seek to stabilize rocky relations and potentially smooth a path for leaders Joe Biden and Xi Jinping to meet in November. In separate readouts, both sides said the discussions that took place over multiple meetings in the Mediterranean island nation were candid, substantive, and constructive. The US said the two governments had committed to pursuing additional high-level engagement and consultations in key areas in the coming months in a signal of the expectation of continued diplomacy. Chinas Foreign Ministry said the two sides agreed to continue high-level communication on several fronts, including consultations on Asia-Pacific affairs, maritime affairs, and foreign policy. The meeting follows a string of high-level visits from top US officials to Beijing in recent months and comes ahead of an opportunity for Chinese leader Xi to visit the US in November, when President Biden will host world leaders for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco. Following the weekends talks, a senior Biden administration official said the White House had nothing to announce regarding a potential meeting between the two leaders, but noted that Biden hopes to meet with Xi soon. Biden and Xi last met in November 2022 on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Bali. The meeting between Wang and Sullivan comes as Beijing and Washington have been taking steps to reestablish and strengthen communication to avoid their increasingly fraught and contentious relationship veering into conflict. China severed multiples lines of communication with the US last August after a visit from then-US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan. Chinas ruling Communist Party views the self-ruled island democracy as its own and has not ruled out taking it by force. The island remains one of the thorniest subjects between the two, with Wang telling Sullivan over the weekend that the Taiwan issue is the first insurmountable red line in Sino-US relations, according to a readout from Chinas Foreign Ministry. The United States must abide by the three Sino-US joint communiques and implement its commitment not to support Taiwan independence, the statement read, referring to the three joint statements made during the 1970s and early 80s that helped establish relations between the two sides. The US noted the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, according to the White Houses official account of the meetings, which also said the two sides discussed Russias war against Ukraine and global and regional security issues. Military communication The two sides also discussed the need to re-establish military-to-military dialogue between the US and China, the senior Biden official said following the weekend meeting. The official said there were limited indications that China may be willing to re-establish those channels, but declined to elaborate further. Beijing had previously pointed to Americas unilateral sanctions, as an obstacle that needs to be removed before such dialogue can resume, in an apparent reference to US sanctions on Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu. Li has been at the center of mounting speculation in recent days that he has been placed under Communist Party investigation after vanishing from view for more than two weeks amid a series of unexplained personnel shakeups that roiled the partys upper ranks this summer. He had assumed his role earlier this year and has been under US sanctions since 2018 over Chinas purchase of Russian weapons. Asked whether Sullivan raised the whereabouts of Li, and the removal earlier this summer of then-Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang, the Biden administration official said the subject did not come up during the talks. Wang, who held the role of foreign minister for a decade until the end of last year and then stepped in again following Qins removal, is expected to continue his diplomatic travels with a visit to Moscow on Monday. Wang would visit the country between September 18 and 21, Chinas Foreign Ministry said Monday. He is expected to meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to discuss a wide range of bilateral cooperation issues, according to a statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry last week. Those include a detailed exchange of views on issues related to a settlement in Ukraine, the Russian ministry said. That meeting comes on the heels of a closely watched summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Wednesday, which the US has warned could lead to Pyongyang supplying Moscow with munitions for its war in Ukraine. This story was first published on CNN.com. Arab diplomatic sources say the Syrian regime has failed to provide the necessary security and political conditions to curb illicit trade, according to Asharq al-Awsat. Hopes for the promised meeting between Lebanese Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Abdallah Bouhabib, and his Syrian counterpart, Faisal Mekdad, to pave the way for establishing a timetable for the return of displaced Syrians to their homes have significantly faded. This desire was shared by the Minister of Displacement in the caretaker government, Issam Sharafeddine, who consistently implied that the impediment to their return lies with the Lebanese government. The Lebanese government has yet to form a ministerial security delegation to engage in negotiations with the Syrian government, aimed at organizing the voluntary and secure return of displaced individuals to their towns and villages. Arab diplomatic sources, speaking to Asharq al-Awsat, disclosed that the Syrian regime has failed to provide the necessary security and political conditions to curb the illicit export of contraband, particularly Captagon, to neighbouring nations. Additionally, the Syrian government has been uncooperative in responding to the prerequisites for transitioning toward a political solution to end the conflict in Syria, which has hindered progress. These sources have also highlighted the Syrian regimes persistent efforts to shift responsibility for not receiving the displaced onto the international community, citing the lack of response to its calls for assistance in Syrias reconstruction. They revealed that the program, previously formulated by the Syrian government in collaboration with the Lebanese authorities to facilitate the return of displaced individuals sheltering in Lebanon, faced setbacks. This was primarily due to the insistence of Syrian security services on scrutinizing the lists of individuals wishing to return to their homes. As a result, hundreds were excluded on grounds of security and political considerations. The Syrian security services claim that they do not hinder the returnees is contradicted by their vetting of lists and the exclusion of undesirable individuals for security and political reasons. Furthermore, the sources emphasized that the Syrian regime has not been forthcoming in providing assistance to the Lebanese government in exchange for support from the Arab ministerial committee. This is despite Syrias interest in normalizing its Arab relations, especially following its return to the Arab League. 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 aggravated murder trial of the Salem man accused of fatally shooting Clark County sheriffs Sgt. Jeremy Brown continued Friday afternoon with testimony about the wounds Brown suffered. Guillermo Raya Leon, 28, is accused of shooting Brown as the detective conducted surveillance in his unmarked Jeep SUV at an east Vancouver apartment complex. Law enforcement officers from several agencies were watching Raya Leon, his brother and his brothers wife as part of an investigation into stolen firearms. In addition to aggravated first-degree murder, Raya Leon is charged in Clark County Superior Court with first-degree trafficking in stolen property, first-degree burglary, theft of a motor vehicle and two counts of possession of a stolen firearm. Clark County Medical Examiner Martha Burt testified about the pathway of Browns gunshot wounds through his left arm and chest. She said Brown couldve been seated in his Jeep and twisted to look toward the back of the vehicle when he was shot. The medical examiner couldnt say how close the gun was when Brown was shot because the bullet passed through a car window, causing the bullet to fragment before striking Brown. Several detectives also testified about searching the apartment the trio had been in following the shooting and finding bags containing dozens of boxes of ammunition and loaded magazines. Trial is scheduled to continue Monday with more states witnesses. OLYMPIA A legislative district in Central Washington was found to violate the rights of Latino voters, and a court is now expected to decide how to redraw its boundaries. The newly drawn map could potentially add a few more Democrats to the mix in Olympia. Last month, U.S. District Judge Robert Lasnik found that the 15th Legislative Districts boundaries violate the federal Voting Rights Act, the landmark 1965 law born out of the Civil Rights Movement. This past week, legislative leaders said they would not call a special session to reconvene a state commission to redraw the boundaries, in effect kicking it back to the court. The decision represents a milestone in decades of effort to boost political representation of Latino voters in the Yakima Valley area, and it could impact the political makeup of the Legislature in the short term. Matt Barreto, professor of political science at UCLA who was hired as a consultant for the redistricting commission by state Senate Democrats, and who testified about his research and advice to the commission in the case, described the August decision in Soto Palmer v. Hobbs as a historic turning point for Washington state politics. For the first time ever, there will be a majority Latino district in which the Latino voters will get to choose their candidate to send to Olympia, Barreto said. That has never happened. Why does the district violate the law? Every 10 years, states redesign their district maps for the state Legislature and Congress to accommodate population changes documented by the U.S. census. The people who brought the Soto Palmer v. Hobbs lawsuit argued that the way Washington drew its maps diluted the Latino vote in the Yakima Valley by splitting its Latino communities into different districts. They argued the Latino population was big enough and geographically compact enough to make up a majority in a legislative district. Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act allows voters to sue if they are being subjected to a voting process or procedure that denies them the ability to elect candidates of their choice, said Simone Leeper, legal counsel on the redistricting team at the Campaign Legal Center. The center, along with the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, the UCLA Voting Rights Project, and Washington lawyer Edwardo Morfin, filed the lawsuit in January 2022 on behalf of several Latino voters in the Yakima Valley area. The way the 15th Legislative District is drawn, Hispanic voting-age citizens form a slight majority, but that figure doesnt tell the full story, Leeper said. When they initially drew the maps, state redistricting commissioners could have easily drawn a district that was around 70% Latino, which would have enabled them to elect the candidate they wanted, Barreto said. U.S. District Judge Robert Lasnik found that a majority just above 50% wasnt enough to provide equal electoral opportunity where past discrimination, current social/economic conditions, and a sense of hopelessness keep Latino voters from the polls in numbers significantly greater than white voters. Laskin also said the people who brought the lawsuit provided ample historical evidence of discriminatory English literacy tests, English-only election materials, and at-large systems of election that prevented or suppressed Latino voting. The plaintiffs pointed to prior lawsuits that sought to fight discriminatory voting practices. In 2004, for instance, the U.S. Department of Justice sued Yakima County alleging it failed to provide complete and accurate Spanish-language materials and to effectively help Spanish-speaking voters, resulting in a consent decree requiring the county to set up a Spanish-language election program, according to the DOJ. Other lawsuits have challenged systems of elections in the city of Yakima and the county. Its not about giving minority voters any sort of leg up or advantage over other voters, Leeper said. Its just about making sure that minority voters have the same opportunity that all of the other voters have to have their voice heard. What happens next? The court is expected to decide how the new map will be drawn. On Friday, Lasnik ordered the state to file a status report by Sept. 29 to formally notify the court of the Legislatures position. If, as appears to be the case, the Legislature intends to leave the redistricting process to the Court, additional input and information from the parties will be requested, he wrote. Three Hispanic registered voters in Central Washington Ismael Campos, Jose Trevino and Alex Ybarra and a state representative from Quincy, in the 13th Legislative District, have appealed Lasniks decision. The 15th district currently borders five other districts, including the 13th. In a July closing argument, the intervenors argued that Latinos in the district already represent a majority of the citizen voting age population, possess equal and easy access to the polls (complete with bilingual voting materials), and thus have the opportunity to elect a candidate of their choice by voting as a bloc. Once the new maps are in place, legislators elected based on the new district could shift the debate in Olympia on policy issues including agriculture, education and immigration, Barreto said. The new maps could also influence the partisan makeup of the Legislature. While its not a certainty, if Democrats field strong candidates with strong ties to the Latino community, he said, they could win seats in the new 15th district, which is currently represented by Republicans. Whos in the seat now? Each legislative district has three lawmakers: a senator and two representatives. Right now, the district is represented by Sen. Nikki Torres, of Pasco; Rep. Bruce Chandler, of Granger; and Rep. Bryan Sandlin, of Zillah. All three are Republicans. According to the Secretary of States Office, all three legislators can serve out the rest of their term, even if they are drawn out of the district. State representatives serve two-year terms, so theyre up for reelection in 2024. State senators serve four-year terms, and Torres is up for reelection in 2026. If they remain in the district, its possible they could face a steeper path to reelection in a new 15th district that is stronger-majority Latino. Torres, a first-term lawmaker and self-described conservative who grew up in Pasco, the daughter of farmworkers, said in an interview in late August that she was waiting to see what the new maps looked like. Were just going to wait and see, Torres said. Im still going to be serving my constituents. They voted me in. The newest COVID-19 vaccine is on its way to Washington, with the first doses set to arrive as soon as this week. The news is a relief for public health teams preparing for respiratory infection season, but state leaders say distribution delays and unexpected costs could test the first vaccine rollout process since the countrys public health emergency ended. The arrival of the new shots, approved last week by the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, also serves as the latest reminder that longer-term public health strategies might now regularly include annual COVID shots. Thats where we are now, state Secretary of Health Dr. Umair Shah said in a Friday news conference. Similar to the flu shot, this updated vaccine really protects against updated variants that are currently circulating. A team of leaders from the state Department of Health weighed in last week on what strategies residents should keep in mind as fall approaches, and how the new COVID shot might help protect against severe illness. What do COVID levels look like in Washington? While COVID levels remain fairly low in Washington compared to previous spikes, the states infection and hospitalization rates have been slowly increasing since July, said state epidemiologist Dr. Scott Lindquist. As of late August, an average of about 3.4 Washingtonians were being hospitalized per 100,000 people, compared to fewer than 2 per 100,000 in late June and early July. The states infection rate, likely an undercount due to the rise in home testing, was about 45.4 per 100,000 in late August a jump from fewer than 17 per 100,000 in early July. In comparison, about 28 people per 100,000 were being hospitalized with COVID during the states omicron wave in January 2022. During the height of the surge, more than 1,800 people per 100,000 were testing positive for the virus on any given day. State health data shows Cowlitz County saw a case rate of 33.5 per 100,000 people during the last reported seven days, a rate of 5.4 per 100,000 people hospitalized and no deaths. Neighboring counties have similar data. Clark County saw a case rate of 34.5 per 100,000 people during the same time period, a rate of 2.4 per 100,000 people hospitalized and no deaths. Lewis County saw a case rate of 34.9 per 100,000 people during the last reported seven days, a rate of 3.7 per 100,000 people hospitalized and a death rate of 1.2 per 100,000 people. Local case rates Local counties have seen similar COVID-19 case rates per 100,000 people during the last reported seven days. Cowlitz County: 33.5 Clark County: 34.5 Lewis County: 34.9 When can I get the updated vaccine? Because its the first COVID vaccine to be rolled out after the end of the national public health emergency, meaning the federal government is no longer purchasing all doses, the distribution process could take longer. The state Department of Health expects the first doses will land in Washington this week, but providers might not receive shipments until early October. Its really important to be patient and keep checking back with your pharmacy or provider, said Michele Roberts, the states assistant secretary for prevention and community health. How do I know what community levels of respiratory infection look like? A new data dashboard is here and ready to simultaneously track three respiratory viruses this year. The interactive online tool, modeled after the COVID data dashboard the state maintained for the last three years, provides a summary of ongoing disease activity, hospital admissions, emergency department visits and occupied ICU beds for COVID, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus, in addition to other health metrics. This major dashboard will be a guide to our respiratory season, Lindquist said. As we move out of the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to be thinking of all the lessons we learned to apply to [this season]. The dashboard also tracks gaps in age, sex and race/ethnicity, and still includes COVID vaccine and wastewater data. According to recent numbers, true respiratory season has yet to start, but health officials are planning to keep a close eye on the dashboard and encourage residents to also check in from time to time, Lindquist said. How to find a local vaccine supplier Visit vaccinelocator.doh.wa.gov and enter your zip code to find a local COVID-19 vaccine supplier. What shots are recommended to protect against COVID, flu and RSV?Most Americans everyone 6 months and older should get the updated COVID shot, advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention decided last week. The new and improved vaccine will replace the former bivalent messenger RNA vaccine, approved last year but no longer authorized. Anyone 5 and up, regardless of previous vaccination, can receive a single dose of the updated shot, as long as its been two months since their last dose of any COVID shot. The virus that causes COVID-19 is always changing and protection from vaccines does decline over time, Roberts said. Receiving an updated COVID vaccine increases protection ... against the variants that are currently responsible for the most infections and hospitalizations in the U.S. For children between 6 months and 4 years old, the vaccines are slightly different, and the number of doses will depend on their age and previous vaccinations, Roberts said. Previously vaccinated kids under 4 can receive one or two doses of the new shot, while unvaccinated kids can receive three doses of the updated Pfizer vaccine or two doses of the updated Moderna vaccine, she said. Roberts encouraged families to check with their health care provider with any questions or concerns. Health officials also recommend flu vaccines for those over 6 months old, as well as a new monoclonal antibody treatment that protects against severe RSV infection in infants and children up to 2. In addition, two new RSV vaccines have been licensed for adults 60 and older, both of which can be administered alongside other vaccines, like flu and COVID, Roberts said. How much will the new vaccine cost now?Most health insurance companies continue to cover the cost of COVID vaccines, but those who are un- or underinsured have options for free shots at community vaccine clinics and certain pharmacies. Find sites near you by visiting st.news/vaccinelocator. All children under 18 are also eligible for no-cost vaccines through federal childhood vaccination programs. For more information visit st.news/vaxprograms. Why is it so hard to find rapid tests, and where can I test myself regularly? Access to testing looks very different now than a year ago, Shah said. Not all health insurers are covering the cost of tests, unless patients make a clinic appointment and get tested in person. Meanwhile, pharmacy supply varies and prices can add up, especially when getting multiple test kits. A few options still exist for finding free or low-cost tests, said Lacy Fehrenbach, the states chief of prevention, safety and health. The federal government runs a program called Increasing Community Access to Testing, which distributes tests to pharmacies and clinics across the country. In Washington, some organizations continue to work with the state to distribute tests within communities, but Fehrenbach recommended reaching out to local health departments directly for more information. K-12 school districts also have access to free at-home testing, in addition to rural pharmacies and first responder agencies. But we know it is not quite as easy as it was during the public health emergency to access free and low-cost tests, Fehrenbach said. Where should I mask now? Masking is no longer required in any indoor public spaces in Washington, except in some high-risk health care settings. But state health leaders still encourage the use of high-quality, well-fitted masks when taking indoor public transit, and anywhere inside when community hospitalization levels reach a certain level, according to the Department of Healths recently updated masking guidance. If you have COVID symptoms or a positive test, or were recently exposed to someone with COVID, health officials also recommend masking up. Masks are great for all of these respiratory viruses, Fehrenbach said. Keep your masks handy, and wear one in crowded or confined settings if youre at risk for severe disease or when disease rates are high. Editors note: City Editor Hayley Day contributed to this article. Two children who went missing Friday may have been abducted by their mother and her partner, according to Vancouver police, and a search is underway to find them. The Vancouver Police Department is seeking the publics help in locating Braxton Hinson, 15, and Dexter Hinson, 7, both of whom went missing Friday afternoon, according to a press release from the department. Vancouver police suspect Angelina Hinson, 40, and her partner Joel Long, 39, abducted the children outside of their school on Friday. As a result, police declared the two children missing and opened a kidnapping and custodial interference investigation into Long and Angelina Hinson, who no longer has guardianship of her children. Earlier in September, Braxton and Dexter Hinsons father was awarded sole custody of the two children. Theres also a protection order in place barring Angelina Hinson from contacting her children. Long and Angelina Hinson may be associated with two vehicles: a Chevy Sonic with Washington plate number BXZ0985 and a Hyundai Elantra with dealer temporary plates. Photos provided by the Vancouver Police Department show the clothes worn by Braxton and Dexter Hinson on the day they went missing. Police describe Angelina Hinson as 5-foot-3, 170 pounds with either brown or bleached blonde hair. They describe Long as 5-foot-10, 180 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes. Police are uncertain of their current appearances, however, because theyre likely trying to avoid detection. There is currently no articulable risk of imminent danger to either child, or to the community, but efforts are underway to locate them, the press release stated. Anyone with information pertaining to Braxton and Dexter Hinsons whereabouts is asked to email Jason Nicholson at Jason.nicholson@cityofvancouver.us or Julie Ballou at Julie.ballou@cityofvancouver.us. NASA's independent study team released its highly anticipated report on UFOs on September 14, 2023. In part to move beyond the stigma often attached to UFOs, where military pilots fear ridicule or job sanctions if they report them, UFOs are now characterised by the US government as UAPs, or unidentified anomalous phenomena. Bottom line: The study team found no evidence that reported UAP observations are extraterrestrial. I'm a professor of astronomy who has written extensively on astrobiology and the scientists who search for life in the universe. I have long been skeptical of the claim that UFOs represent visits by aliens to Earth. From sensationalism to science During a press briefing, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson noted that NASA has scientific programs to search for traces of life on Mars and the imprints of biology in the atmospheres of exoplanets. He said he wanted to shift the UAP conversation from sensationalism to one of science. With this statement, Nelson was alluding to some of the more outlandish claims about UAPs and UFOs. At a congressional hearing in July, former Pentagon intelligence officer David Grusch testified that the American government has been hiding evidence of crashed UAPs and alien biological specimens. Sean Kirkpatrick, head of the Pentagon office charged with investigating UAPs, has denied these claims. And the same week NASA's report came out, Mexican lawmakers were shown by journalist Jaime Maussan two tiny, 1,000-year-old bodies that he claimed were the remains of non-human beings. Scientists have called this claim fraudulent and say the mummies may have been looted from gravesites in Peru. Conclusions from the report The NASA study team report sheds little light on whether some UAPs are extraterrestrial. In his comments, the chair of the study team, astronomer David Spergel stated that the team had seen no evidence to suggest that UAPs are extraterrestrial in origin. Of the more than 800 unclassified sightings collected by the Department of Defence's All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office and reported at the NASA panel's first public meeting back in May 2023, only a small handful cannot be immediately identified as known human-made or natural phenomena, according to the report. Many of the recent sightings can be attributed to weather balloons and airborne clutter. Historically, most UFOs are astronomical objects such as meteors, fireballs and the planet Venus. Some sightings represent surveillance operations by foreign powers, which is why the US military considers this a national security issue. The report does offer recommendations to NASA on how to move these investigations forward. Most of the UAP data considered by the study team comes from US military aircraft. Analysis of this data is hampered by poor sensor calibration, the lack of multiple measurements, the lack of sensor metadata, and the lack of baseline data. The ideal set of measurements would include optical imaging, infrared imaging, and radar data, but very few reports have all these. The NASA study team described in the report the types of data that can shed more light on UAPs. The authors note the importance of reducing the stigma that can cause both military and commercial pilots to feel that they cannot freely report sightings. The stigma stems from decades of conspiracy theories tied to UFOs. The NASA study team suggests gathering sightings by commercial pilots using the Federal Aviation Administration and combining these with classified sightings not included in the report. Team members did not have security clearance, so they could look only at the subset of military sightings that were unclassified. At the moment, there is no anonymous nationwide UAP reporting mechanism for commercial pilots. With access to these classified sightings and a structured mechanism for commercial pilots to report sightings, the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office the military office charged with leading the analysis effort could have the most data. NASA also announced the appointment of a new director of research on UAPs. This position will oversee the creation of a database with resources to evaluate UAP sightings. Looking for a needle in a haystack Parts of the briefing resembled a primer on the scientific method. Using analogies, officials described the analysis process as looking for a needle in a haystack, or separating the wheat from the chaff. The officials said they needed a consistent and rigorous methodology for characterising sightings, as a way of homing in on something truly anomalous. Spergel said the study team's goal was to characterise the hay or the mundane phenomena and subtract it to find the needle, or the potentially exciting discovery. He noted that artificial intelligence can help researchers comb through massive datasets to find rare, anomalous phenomena. AI is already being used this way in many areas of astronomy research. The speakers noted the importance of transparency. Transparency is important because UFOs have long been associated with conspiracy theories and government cover-ups. Similarly, much of the discussion during the congressional UAP hearing in July focused on a need for transparency. All scientific data that NASA gathers is made public on various websites, and officials said they intend to do the same with the nonclassified UAP data. At the beginning of the briefing, Nelson gave his opinion that there were perhaps a trillion instances of life beyond Earth. So, it's plausible that there is intelligent life out there. But the report says that when it comes to UAPs, extraterrestrial life must be the hypothesis of last resort. It quotes Thomas Jefferson: Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence. That evidence does not yet exist. (The Conversation) FZH Huawei Technologies (Thailand) Co., Ltd., one of the worlds leading ICT solutions providers, and International Telecommunication Union (ITU) signed a Joint Declaration to drive digital development and inclusive growth at the ITUs Asia-Pacific Regional Development Forum in Bangkok on Wednesday. The two parties vowed to boost collaboration in six key areas across Thailand and the Asia Pacific, including co-building open and high-level dialogue platforms in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) policy and regulation, joint research, inclusive infrastructure, digital capacity-building, girls and youth empowerment, and digital practice-sharing. Speaking at the occasion, Dr. Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, Director of the Telecommunication Development Bureau of ITU said: I would like to acknowledge Huawei as one of our key partners globally and in the region. They have been supporting the work of the ITU in digital transformation from Latin America to Africa to Asia Pacific. We would like to continue to strengthen our working relationship, and the signing of this Declaration is going to be impactful and transformative. As the United Nations specialized agency for ICT, ITU has proposed the Connect 2030 Agenda for Global Telecommunication/ICT Development to focus on ways technological advances will contribute to accelerate the attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. In line with ITUs mission of connecting all to a better world, Huawei has worked closely with the agency to drive ICT innovations through diverse projects and initiatives in the Asia Pacific region. To date, the two parties have jointly published several research reports on digital infrastructure and economy in the Asia Pacific, with the reports key findings presented in regional ministerial ICT roundtables to inform policy changes and share replicable practices. Another shared focus of Huawei and ITU is to bridge the digital divide and foster telecommunication access, accessibility, affordability, and use for all peoples, including women and girls, youth and vulnerable populations. In 2022, Huawei and ITU organized over 30 youths to join the Walk into ICT Industry event and Huawei Seeds for the Future project, aimed at helping students understand the latest technology trends and applications by bringing them to the Huawei Customer Solution Innovation & Integration Experience Center (CSIC) in Bangkok and providing them with them digital skills training from Huawei ASEAN Academy. In 2023, Huawei supported ITUs Girls in ICT initiative by offering a variety of training and internship programs to motivate young women to pursue STEM studies and careers in areas including5G, Cybersecurity, and Cloud. David Li, Chief Executive Officer of Huawei Technologies (Thailand) Co., Ltd. said the joint declaration marks a new milestone in our cooperation to enable a digital Thailand and Asia Pacific, adding: In the past years, ITU has given Huawei strong support and trust in enabling ICT innovation, supporting digital transformation, and building inclusive connectivity. Moving forward, amidst uncertainties, two things have become more certain than ever before: Partnership and transformation. With this joint declaration, Huawei seeks to further empower a digital and connected Asia Pacific, hand in hand with ITU and all partners. The commitment was further highlighted during a side event on the same day, where close to 20 government policy-makers, regulators, academia, and UN guests gathered to share best practices in accelerating digitalization and connect the unconnected in rural areas. Li shared Huaweis experiences in supporting policymakers and partners to bring electricity, connectivity, and digital services to Thai villages. Digital inclusion is a shared responsibility for all sectors. We need a comprehensive framework that is need-driven, evidence-based, partnership-supported and future-proof. It involves close collaboration in five areas: Government policies and incentives, Accessible broadband connectivity, Enhanced affordability, Empowered digital skills for communities, and Wide range of digital services, Li said. For its part, ITU is planning to organize a Generation Connect student team to join Huaweis Seeds for the Future China tour in the next few months to experience the latest digital innovations and applications. The two parties will also further dive into the policies, digital infrastructure, and industry ecosystem needed for the development of digital economy in the Asia Pacific region. Diverse cultures, radiance of glory (People's Daily App) 17:16, September 18, 2023 For humans, imagery with hope and purpose creates an adventure through time and space. The city of Chengdu, capital of Southwest China's Sichuan Province, is hosting the Golden Panda Awards, an event to foster cultural exchanges and create a global community with a shared future through film. Enjoy this animated short and get a sneak peak at classics from all over the world. (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun) Doha and Washington (CNN) Five Americans freed from Iranian detention on Monday are on their way back to the United States after initially stopping in Doha, Qatar, according to a US official and a source familiar with the matter. The five, all of whom had been designated as wrongfully detained, were freed as part of a wider deal that includes the US unfreezing $6 billion in Iranian funds. The release of the Americans brings to an end a yearslong nightmare for those who had been detained. Three of those who are part of the deal Emad Shargi, Morad Tahbaz and Siamak Namazi had all been imprisoned for more than five years. Namazi had been detained since 2015. The identities of the other two Americans are not publicly known. Siamak Namazis mother, Effie Namazi, and Morad Tahbazs wife, Vida Tahbaz who were previously unable to leave Iran were also on the flight from Iran to Doha, a senior Biden administration official said. They were flown out of Tehran on a Qatari government jet to Doha on Monday afternoon local time, before taking off for the Washington, DC, area to be reunited with their families, the senior administration official said. In a statement Monday, President Joe Biden celebrated the release of the five Americans after enduring years of agony, uncertainty, and suffering. Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home, Biden wrote in the statement released shortly before the Americans were scheduled to land in Doha. Their release represents a significant diplomatic breakthrough after years of complicated indirect negotiations between the US and Iran, who do not have formal diplomatic ties. A senior Biden administration official said the deal has not changed our relationship with Iran in any way, noting the US would still work to hold Iran accountable for its human rights abuses and to constrain its nuclear program. In his statement, Biden thanked partners at home and abroad for their tireless efforts to help us achieve this outcome, including the Governments of Qatar, Oman, Switzerland, and South Korea. Mondays release the latest high-profile deal negotiated by the Biden administration to secure the release of Americans deemed wrongly detained abroad following the release of Americans from Russia and Venezuela was met with criticism from some Republicans, who likened it to a ransom payment. Call your family members and let them know that youre OK The overall contours of the deal began to crystallize in Doha about seven months ago after years of indirect negotiations. The first tangible public steps under the deal took place about five weeks ago, when four of the Americans were transferred into house arrest. The fifth American was already under house arrest. In the weeks following the move to house arrest, the Swiss ambassador to Iran made regular visits to the Americans to check on their conditions, the senior administration official said. Switzerland serves as the US protecting power in Iran since the US does not have a diplomatic presence there. And in the days leading up to the release, the US government had carefully sketched out the logistics of how things would go, with the caveat that things could always change, officials familiar with the matter said. Once the plane arrived in Doha, a senior State Department official said there would be medical personnel on the ground to meet the freed Americans. They would also be on the plane back to the US. And were going to be handing them government phones and and telling them: Go ahead and call your family members and let them know that youre OK, and that youre coming back, the official said. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he spoke with the seven Americans freed from Iran when they landed in Doha in what he called an emotional conversation. Today, their freedom, the freedom of these Americans for so long unjustly imprisoned and detained in Iran means some pretty basic things: it means that husbands and wives, fathers and children, grandparents can hug each other again, can see each other again, can be with each other again, Blinken said. The family of Emad Sharghi said in a statement that they were able to speak with him in a very short conservation, but he sounded excited and optimistic. They also spoke with Biden by phone, who told them that he started the effort to free these Americans when he first took office and wishes that it could have been brought to this happy conclusion earlier but hes very happy it got there today, according to the statement. A US official said Biden spoke with all of the families. The family of Morad and Vida Tahbaz said they were are overjoyed and relieved to have their loved ones finally free. We are grateful to President Biden and his Administration for making the difficult but necessary decision to prioritize the lives of American citizens over politics. Thank you for leading with courage and compassion, the family said in a statement to CNN. And Siamak Namazi, who had been detained since 2015, said in a statement, For almost eight years I have been dreaming of this day. Now that it is finally here, I find my ineffable joy of my forthcoming reunification with my family is laced with sorrow a painful and deep feeling of guilt for taking my breaths in freedom while so many courageous individuals that I love and admire continue languishing behind those walls, he said. Once the freed Americans return to the US, they will have the option to participate in a Department of Defense Program known as PISA (Post Isolation Support Activities) to help them acclimate back to normal life, officials said. $6 billion transfer of funds Under the agreement between the US and Iran, $6 billion in Iranian funds that had been held in restricted accounts in South Korea was transferred to restricted accounts in banks in Qatar. Iranian and US officials were notified by Qatar on Monday that the transfer had taken place, according to a source briefed on details of the matter. Sources told CNN the funds came from oil sales that were allowed and placed into accounts set up under the Trump administration. Biden administration officials have stressed that the funds that have been transferred to the accounts in Qatar can be used by Iran only for humanitarian purchases and that each transaction will be monitored by the US Treasury Department. We are implementing this arrangement through the establishment of what we are calling the humanitarian channel in Qatar, which is designed to protect against money laundering and misuse of the funds, the first senior administration official said. The agreement also involves the release of five Iranians in US custody. The first senior administration official noted that two of the five Iranians had served a majority of their sentences; the other three were awaiting trial and had not yet been convicted. According to the Iranian Foreign Ministry, two of the Iranians were returning to Iran, one was expected to leave for another country, and the other two were expected to remain in the US. Those who are remaining in the US do not pose a national security risk, US officials said. The Iranians that are being released as part of this are small potatoes, a senior State Department official said. There are some big, big fish that the Iranians want out of our judicial system that theyve asked for for some time. Weve been engaged in difficult and principled negotiations for a long time and out of that process, theyre not getting anybody that they really care about. A really good deal The first senior State Department official said the Biden administration feels it has a really good deal. We feel like were going to get these Americans out on terms that are good both for them as well as for the American people, so were moving forward with this, the official explained, adding that they believe the US got the better end of the stick in this deal. Senior administration officials would not discuss when the Biden signed off on the deal. When the opportunity came together after pretty principled, persistent diplomacy a number of things obviously we completely, flat-out rejected when the opportunity arose we got a deal that was very much in our interests, thats when we chose to move forward, the senior administration official said. As the deal progressed, it has been met with backlash by Republican lawmakers and presidential contenders. Former Vice President Mike Pence under whose tenure the White House made two prisoner swap deals with Tehran is expected to criticize Biden in a speech Monday afternoon for allowing Iran to foment terrorism across the Middle East. The senior administration official pushed back on the criticism, saying, These are some of the most difficult decisions a president makes, but I think this deal stands up. When you look at the full contours of the deal, compared with the alternative the alternative is these Americans never come home. So I think it very much holds up, they said. US issuing new sanctions on Tehran over Bob Levinson Following the release of the five Americans, the US issued new sanctions against Iran targeting Tehrans Ministry of Intelligence and former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, senior administration officials said, seeking to punish them for a lack of answers around Bob Levinson, an American detained in Iran for more than a decade who is believed to have died there. Well never give up on Bob Levinsons case, one senior administration official said. We cant emphasize strongly enough that the Iranian regime must finally come clean, allow for Bob Levinson to be at peace, and for the Levinson family to have answers. We will continue to call on Iran to give a full accounting of what happened to Bob Levinson, from his initial captivity to his ultimate murder, a second senior administration official said. The Levinson family said in a statement that they welcomed the news of the release of the Americans and the new sanctions, but make no mistake: Todays good news does not end our familys nightmare and ongoing pain. Nor does it mask or excuse the shameful cruelty and unending lies of the Iranian regime. We will never stop demanding that Iranian leaders answer for what happened to Robert Levinson, the greatest man we have ever known, they said. The actions announced today with the full force of the U.S. government behind them are a welcome step toward justice for Bob Levinson, and they are by no means the last. We will not rest until the cruel Iranian regime is held fully accountable, and our father knows true peace, they said. Man allegedly struck roommate with sword A College Station man was arrested Sunday night for allegedly striking his roommate with a katana following a verbal altercation that had turned physical, according to the College Station Police Department. Jordan Aazan Ahmed, 19, has been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, according to Brazos County Jail records. At around 10:50 p.m. Sunday, police said officers responded to a report of a civil disturbance at The Woodlands of College Station Apartments where they made contact with Ahmed. Ahmed told officers that he had arrived home after work to discover that his roommate had invited friends over without telling him and had left trash out, according to police. Officers said Ahmed admitted to verbally arguing and then physically fighting with his roommate but did not admit to striking him with the katana a long, single-edged sword generally used by Japanese samurai instead saying that his roommate had taken it. After speaking with Ahmed, the police said they talked to the roommate who said that they had begun fighting over him having friends over and that Ahmed had grabbed his katana from his dresser and then struck the roommate over his right eye. According to police, the roommate then said that he was able to grab the katana by the blade, because it was dull, and threw it down the stairs. The roommate had a visible laceration above his eye, according to officers. Assault with a deadly weapon is a second-degree felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000. Ahmed is being held under a $10,000 bond, according to police. WASHINGTON Hundreds of rioters have been charged, convicted and sentenced for joining the mob attack on the U.S. Capitol. Unlike their cases, Samuel Lazar's appears to have been resolved in secret kept under seal with no explanation, even after his release from prison. Lazar, 37, of Ephrata, Pennsylvania, was arrested in July 2021 on charges that he came to the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, dressed in tactical gear and protective goggles, and used chemical spray on officers who were desperately trying to beat back the angry Donald Trump supporters. There is no public record of a conviction or a sentence in Lazars court docket. But the Bureau of Prisons told The Associated Press the man was released from federal custody last week after completing a sentence for assaulting or resisting a federal officer. Lazar was sentenced in Washingtons federal court on March 17 to 30 months in prison, according to the Bureau of Prisons, but theres no public record of such a hearing. He had been jailed since July 2021. Questions about Lazars case have been swirling for months, but the details of his conviction and sentence have not been previously reported. The Justice Department has refused to say why the case remains under wraps, and attorneys for Lazar did not respond to multiple requests for comment. The judge overseeing Lazars case in May rejected a request from media outlets to release any sealed records that may exist. The case is raising concerns about transparency in the massive Jan. 6 investigation the largest in Justice Department history. Court hearings and records including sentencing hearings and plea agreements are supposed to be open and available to the public and the press unless theres a compelling need for secrecy. Lazar was transferred in July from FCI Fort Dix a federal lockup in New Jersey to community confinement overseen by the Bureau of Prisons, which means he was either in home confinement or a halfway house, according to a prisons system spokesperson. A social media post from Lazar's sister that month shows Lazar standing outside waving an American flag with the caption: Hallelujah Praise God free at last #walkingfree. Secret plea hearings are not unheard of, though the records are often unsealed ahead of sentencing. In an unrelated example, the guilty plea by George Papadopoulos, the former Trump campaign adviser who triggered the Russia influence investigation, was entered under seal and kept out of view for weeks until special counsel Robert Mueller disclosed that Papadopoulos had admitted making false statements to the FBI. Subsequent proceedings, including his sentencing hearing, were matters of public record. George Washington University criminal law professor Randall Eliason, who spent 12 years as a federal prosecutor in Washington, said he couldn't remember any case during his Justice Department tenure in which a sentencing hearing and sentence were placed under seal. Eliason said it's possible that either theres some kind of security concern about him personally, or maybe more likely that hes cooperating in some respect that they dont want the people hes cooperating against to know about. But many Jan. 6 defendants have cooperation deals with the government, and their cases haven't been resolved in secret. Defendants who agree to cooperate with prosecutors often get their sentencing hearings delayed until they finish cooperating. The fact that he also got sentenced, went to prison and is already out, that whole situation is just unusual, Eliason said. Lazar is among more than 1,100 defendants charged with federal crimes related to the Jan. 6 attack. Outside the Capitol that day, Lazar was carrying a bullhorn and wearing ski googles, a tactical vest with a radio attached and camouflage-style face paint. Videos captured Lazar approaching police lines outside the Capitol and discharging an orange chemical irritant toward officers, an FBI agent said in a court filing. An officer's body camera showed Lazar retreat down steps after police deployed a chemical at him. Lazar then turned and sprayed two officers, according to the agent. Lazar shouted profane insults at police through the bullhorn, calling them tyrants and yelling, Lets get their guns!" Another video captured Lazar saying, Theres a time for peace and theres a time for war. U.S. Magistrate Judge Robin Meriweather in Washington, D.C., ordered Lazar detained pending trial, ruling that he posed a threat to public safety. The magistrate noted that Lazar also had been photographed posing with firearms on a public street during an August 2020 rally. In January 2022, a new indictment charged Lazar with five counts, including felony offenses. He pleaded not guilty to the charges the following month. In March 2022, prosecutors and Lazar's attorney asked for more time to negotiate a disposition of the matter short of trial. In June 2022, U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson canceled a status conference for Lazar's case because he wasn't available to appear by video from jail. That's the last publicly available court filing to address the status of the case. Images of chaos: AP photographers capture US Capitol riot Workspace is London's leading owner and operator of flexible workspace, managing five million sq. ft. of sustainable space with 76 core locations in London and the South East. We are home to some 4,000 of London's fastest growing and established brands from a diverse range of sectors. Our purpose, to give businesses the freedom to grow, is based on the belief that in the right space, teams can achieve more. That in environments they tailor themselves, free from constraint and compromise, teams are best able to collaborate, build their culture and realise their potential. We have a unique combination of a highly effective and scalable operating platform, a portfolio of distinctive properties, and an ownership model that allows us to offer true flexibility. We provide customers with blank canvas space to create a home for their business, alongside leases that give them the freedom to easily scale up and down within our well-connected, extensive portfolio. We are inherently sustainable we invest across the capital, breathing new life into old buildings and creating hubs of economic activity that help flatten London's working map. We work closely with our local communities to ensure we make a positive and lasting environmental and social impact, creating value over the long term. Workspace was established in 1987, has been listed on the London Stock Exchange since 1993, is a FTSE 250 listed Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) and a member of the European Public Real Estate Association (EPRA). Workspace is a registered trademark of Workspace Group PLC, London, UK. 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. HSBC Holdings plc provides banking and financial services worldwide. The company operates through Wealth and Personal Banking, Commercial Banking, and Global Banking and Markets segments. The Wealth and Personal Banking segment offers retail banking and wealth products, including current and savings accounts, mortgages and personal loans, credit and debit cards, and local and international payment services; and wealth management services comprising insurance and investment products, global asset management services, investment management, and private wealth solutions. This segment serves personal banking and high net worth individuals. The Commercial Banking segment provides credit and lending, treasury management, payment, cash management, commercial insurance, and investment services; commercial cards; international trade and receivables finance services; foreign exchange products; capital raising services on debt and equity markets; and advisory services. It serves small and medium sized enterprises, mid-market enterprises, and corporates. The Global Banking and Markets segment offers financing, advisory, and transaction services; and credit, rates, foreign exchange, equities, money markets, and securities services; and engages in principal investment activities. It serves government, corporate and institutional clients, and private investors. HSBC Holdings plc was founded in 1865 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom. Carrier Global Corporation provides heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC), refrigeration, fire, security, and building automation technologies worldwide. It operates through three segments: HVAC, Refrigeration, and Fire & Security. The HVAC segment provides products, controls, services, and solutions to meet the heating, cooling, and ventilation needs of residential and commercial customers. Its products include air conditioners, heating systems, controls, and aftermarket components, as well as aftermarket repair and maintenance services and building automation solutions. The Refrigeration segment offers transport refrigeration and monitoring products and services, as well as digital solutions for trucks, trailers, shipping containers, intermodal applications, food retail, and warehouse cooling; and commercial refrigeration solutions, such as refrigerated cabinets, freezers, systems, and controls. The Fire & Security segment provides various residential, commercial, and industrial technologies, including fire, flame, gas, smoke, and carbon monoxide detection; portable fire extinguishers; fire suppression systems; intruder alarms; access control systems; video management systems; and electronic controls. Its other fire and security service offerings comprise audit, design, installation, and system integration, as well as aftermarket maintenance and repair and monitoring services. The company offers its products under the Autronica, Det-Tronics, Edwards, Aritech, Fireye, GST, Kidde, LenelS2, Marioff, Onity, and Supra; Carrier, Toshiba, Automated Logic, Bryant, CIAT, Day & Night, Heil, NORESCO, and Riello; and Carrier Commercial Refrigeration, Carrier Transicold, and Sensitech brands. The company was incorporated in 2019 and is headquartered in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Canaccord Genuity Group Inc., a full-service financial services company, provides investment products, and investment banking and brokerage services to institutional, corporate, and private clients. It operates in two segments, Canaccord Genuity Capital Markets and Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management. The Canaccord Genuity Capital Markets segment offers investment banking, advisory, research, merger and acquisition, sales, and trading services. The Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management segment provides wealth management solutions, and brokerage and financial planning services to individual investors, private clients, charities, and intermediaries. The company operates in North America, the United Kingdom, Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. Canaccord Genuity Group Inc. was founded in 1950 and is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. Essex Property Trust (NYSE:ESS) pays an annual dividend of $9.24 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 4.47%. ESS 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 29 consecutive years, indicating the company has a strong committment to maintain and grow its dividend. The dividend payout ratio is 113.37%. Payout ratios above 75% are not desirable because they may not be sustainable. Based on earnings estimates, ESS will have a dividend payout ratio of 59.61% next year. This indicates that the company will be able to sustain or increase its dividend. Read our dividend analysis for ESS. Pfizer Inc. is a US-based multinational biotech company. The company operates as a research-based pharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, production and marketing of medicines and vaccines. It is the 2nd largest drugmaker globally by revenue and is ranked 64th on the Fortune 500 list. The companys avenues of research include Immunology, Oncology, Cardiology, Endocrinology and Neurology. Regarding its product line, the company has at least ten blockbuster drugs producing more than $1 billion in avenue revenue each. The company brought in over $81 billion in total revenue in 2021. The US is its main market and represents roughly 50% of all revenue. China and Japan make up roughly 12% of the business, while the rest come from the rest of the world. It employs roughly 79,000 people and is headquartered in New York state. Pfizer Inc. was founded in 1849 by Charles Pfizer Sr. and his cousin Charles Earhart. The two were German immigrants and chemists that set up shops outside New York City to make medicinal compounds. The first major success was an antiparasitic called santonin, and the commercialization of citric acid-making technologies quickly followed that up. Their success with citric acid led to the companys expansion and other major discoveries. World War I caused a shortage of materials for making citric acid and forced the company to seek alternatives. The one they latched on to was the fermentation of certain fungi known to produce citric acid naturally. This led to the advancement of fermentation technology that was later used in the commercial production of penicillin and then the advancement of antibiotics in general. Pfizer Inc was incorporated on June 2nd, 1942 in Delaware, and another period of expansion began. The postwar drop in demand for penicillin led to the discovery of newer, more marketable antibiotics and cemented the companys role in modern medicine. By the time he 80s rolled around, the company was trading on the New York Stock Exchange and on the path to developing todays blockbuster lineup. The companys top seller in 2021 was Comirnaty, a COVID-19 vaccine. It generated nearly $37 billion in 2021 and was followed by Prevnar, Ibrance and Eliquis with just over $5 billion in sales each. Other blockbuster names on Pfizers list include Xeljanz and Enbrel, each bringing in $3.5 billion. Pfizer operates 39 research and production facilities worldwide and sells its products in 125 countries. As of 2022, the company had a robust pipeline of potential treatments, with more than 220 in some stage of clinical trials. Among its leading candidates is a vaccine for RSV, a life-threatening respiratory disease affecting children. 2021 highlights include 8 FDA approvals, four new regulatory submissions and 13 new trial startups. Pfizer is also a well-known dividend payer and has returned more than $8.7 billion to shareholders since going public. Harley-Davidson, Inc. manufactures and sells motorcycles in the United States and internationally. The company operates in three segments: Harley-Davidson Motor Company, LiveWire, and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. The Harley-Davidson Motor Company segment designs, manufactures, and sells motorcycles, including cruiser, trike, touring, standard, sportbike, and dual models, as well as motorcycle parts, accessories, and apparel, as well as licenses its trademarks and related services. This segment sells its products to retail customers through a network of independent dealers, as well as e-commerce channels. The LiveWire segment sells electric motorcycles, balance bikes for kids, parts and accessories, apparel, and related parts and services. The Harley-Davidson Financial Services segment provides wholesale financing services, such as floorplan and open account financing of motorcycles, and parts and accessories; and retail financing services, such as installment lending for the purchase of new and used Harley-Davidson motorcycles, as well as point-of-sale protection products comprising motorcycle insurance, extended service contracts, and motorcycle maintenance protection. This segment also licenses third-party financial institutions that issue credit cards bearing the Harley-Davidson brand. Harley-Davidson, Inc. was founded in 1903 and is based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Cogeco Communications Inc. operates as a communications corporation in North America. It operates in two segments, Canadian Broadband Services and American Broadband Services. The company offers Internet, video, and telephony services to residential and business customers through its two-way broadband fiber networks. It provides Internet services using modems, Wi-Fi gateways, and extenders either on a rental basis or as part of the Internet service package; video services on a subscription basis; home phone services using Internet protocol (IP); local and long-distance calling services; broadband Internet services; and IP based telephony services and other network connectivity services delivered over fiber optic connection to larger businesses. The company serves the primary service units, Internet, video, and telephony service customers. It offers cable operator services under the Cogeco Connexion name in Quebec and Ontario, and in the United States under the Atlantic Broadband brand. The company was formerly known as Cogeco Cable Inc. and changed its name to Cogeco Communications Inc. in January 2016. Cogeco Communications Inc. was founded in 1972 and is headquartered in Montreal, Canada. Cogeco Communications Inc. operates as a subsidiary of Cogeco Inc. Spirit Realty Capital (NYSE:SRC) pays an annual dividend of $2.68 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 8.28%. SRC 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 3 consecutive year(s), indicating that it does not yet have a strong track record of dividend growth. The dividend payout ratio is 131.37%. Payout ratios above 75% are not desirable because they may not be sustainable. Based on EPS estimates, SRC will have a dividend payout ratio of 75.71% in the coming year. This indicates that the company may not be able to sustain their current dividend. Read our dividend analysis for SRC. Atea ASA provides IT infrastructure and related solutions for businesses and public sector organizations in the Nordic countries and Baltic regions. The company offers hardware and software solutions for storing and managing information, as well as tools for virtualization, automation, and security for operating the data center environment; and client hardware, software, and services to the requirements of users, applications, security, networks, and computing environments. It also provides hardware and software solutions for running networks, and services to help customers manage their communications; and a range of products to enable collaboration through conferencing, information sharing, and digital productivity solutions. In addition, it offers digital workplace solutions that consist of devices and software through which users conducts work, access data and applications, and interact with each other; information management solutions; and IT asset lifecycle management, professional, and managed services. Atea ASA was founded in 1968 and is headquartered in Oslo, Norway. Thanks to a new discovery linked to shares of Tesla, regular folks can now target gains of 100% or more in six days or less. New research shows its happened 23 different times this year. The next trade is scheduled for this Thursday. The Travelers Companies, Inc., through its subsidiaries, provides a range of commercial and personal property, and casualty insurance products and services to businesses, government units, associations, and individuals in the United States and internationally. It operates through three segments: Business Insurance, Bond & Specialty Insurance, and Personal Insurance. The Business Insurance segment offers workers' compensation, commercial automobile and property, general liability, commercial multi-peril, employers' liability, public and product liability, professional indemnity, marine, aviation, onshore and offshore energy, construction, terrorism, personal accident, and kidnap and ransom insurance products. This segment operates through select accounts, which serve small businesses; commercial accounts that serve mid-sized businesses; national accounts, which serve large companies; and national property and other that serve large and mid-sized customers, commercial trucking industry, and agricultural businesses, as well as markets and distributes its products through brokers, wholesale agents, and program managers. The Bond & Specialty Insurance segment provides surety, fidelity, management and professional liability, and other property and casualty coverages and related risk management services through independent agencies and brokers. The Personal Insurance segment offers property and casualty insurance covering personal risks, primarily automobile and homeowners' insurance to individuals through independent agencies and brokers. The Travelers Companies, Inc. was founded in 1853 and is based in New York, New York. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. develops, manufactures, and distributes motorcycles, automobiles, power, and other products in Japan, North America, Europe, Asia, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Motorcycle Business, Automobile Business, Financial Services Business, and Power Product and Other Businesses. The Motorcycle Business segment produces motorcycles, including sports, business, and commuter models; and various off-road vehicles, such as all-terrain vehicles and side-by-sides. Its Automobile Business segment offers passenger cars, light trucks, and mini vehicles. The Financial Services Business segment provides various financial services, including retail lending and leasing services to customers, as well as wholesale financing services to dealers. Its Power Product and Other Businesses manufactures and sells power products, such as general purpose engines, lawn mowers, generators, water pumps, brush cutters, tillers, outboard marine engines and snow throwers. This segment also offers HondaJet aircraft. The company also sells spare parts; and provides after-sale services through retail dealers directly, as well as through independent distributors and licensees. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. was founded in 1946 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Procter & Gamble Co, headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a multinational consumer goods corporation founded in 1837 by William Procter and James Gamble. The company has a rich history of innovation and has become a household name in many countries worldwide. Proctor & Gamble Co is a consumer staples stock. A consumer staples stock is a type of stock that offers investors a more stable and steady growth pattern that is minimally affected by economic factors. With a market capitalization of over $327.9 billion as of February 2023, Procter & Gamble is one of the largest companies in the world. The company operates in over 70 countries, with its products sold in more than 180 countries globally. Its brand portfolio includes household names such as Tide, Pampers, Gillette, Head & Shoulders, Crest, and Olay. Procter & Gamble's business is divided into five segments: Beauty, Grooming, Health Care, Fabric & Home Care, and Baby, Feminine & Family Care. The Beauty segment includes SK-II, Pantene, and Herbal Essences. The Grooming segment comprises brands such as Gillette, Venus, and Braun. The Health Care segment includes brands such as Oral-B, Vicks, and Pepto-Bismol. The Fabric & Home Care segment includes Tide, Downy, and Swiffer brands. The Baby, Feminine & Family Care segment includes brands such as Pampers, Always, and Tampax. Procter & Gamble's products are sold through various channels, including retail stores, online retailers, and direct-to-consumer channels. The company has also invested in e-commerce capabilities and digital advertising, recognizing the importance of these channels in reaching consumers. Procter & Gamble has a long history of innovation and investing in research and development. The company's R&D efforts are focused on improving its existing products and developing new products that meet the evolving needs of consumers. Procter & Gamble also invests heavily in marketing and advertising, recognizing the importance of building strong brands that resonate with consumers. Recently, Procter & Gamble has made sustainability a key focus area. The company has set ambitious goals to reduce its environmental footprint, such as using 100% renewable electricity at all its plants by 2030. Procter & Gamble has also committed to reducing its plastic packaging waste to reduce its use of virgin plastic by 50% by 2030. Procter & Gamble has a strong financial position, a solid balance sheet and a history of strong cash flows. The company has a long record of paying dividends, with over 130 years of uninterrupted dividend payments. Procter & Gamble has also implemented a share buyback program, repurchasing over $30 billion of its shares in the past three years. Despite its size and global reach, Procter & Gamble faces competition from various large and small companies. The consumer goods industry is highly competitive, with companies constantly vying for market share and consumer attention. Procter & Gamble must continue to innovate and invest in its brands to stay ahead of its competitors. Stryker Corporation operates as a medical technology company. The company operates through two segments, MedSurg and Neurotechnology, and Orthopaedics and Spine. The Orthopaedics and Spine segment provides implants for use in hip and knee joint replacements, and trauma and extremities surgeries. This segment also offers spinal implant products comprising cervical, thoracolumbar, and interbody systems that are used in spinal injury, deformity, and degenerative therapies. The MedSurg and Neurotechnology segment offers surgical equipment and surgical navigation systems, endoscopic and communications systems, patient handling, emergency medical equipment and intensive care disposable products, reprocessed and remanufactured medical devices, and other medical device products that are used in various medical specialties. This segment also provides neurotechnology products, which include products used for minimally invasive endovascular techniques; products for brain and open skull based surgical procedures; orthobiologic and biosurgery products, such as synthetic bone grafts and vertebral augmentation products; minimally invasive products for the treatment of acute ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke; and craniomaxillofacial implant products, including cranial, maxillofacial, and chest wall devices, as well as dural substitutes and sealants. The company sells its products to doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities through company-owned subsidiaries and branches, as well as third-party dealers and distributors in approximately 75 countries. Stryker Corporation was founded in 1941 and is headquartered in Kalamazoo, Michigan. BlackRock, Inc. is a leading American multinational investment company headquartered in New York City. Founded in 1988, BlackRock has become the world's largest asset manager, overseeing more than $8 trillion in assets under management. The company operates on a global scale, with a presence in 30 countries and serving clients in 100 countries across the globe. BlackRock's history dates back to 1988, when it was established as an enterprise risk management and fixed-income institutional asset manager. Over the years, the company steadily expanded its range of services and investment products to meet the evolving needs of its clients. BlackRock's dedication to innovation, data-driven strategies, and commitment to responsible investing contributed to its meteoric rise in the financial industry. BlackRock offers a comprehensive suite of financial products and services, catering to a diverse clientele, including institutional, intermediary, and individual investors. The company's core functions include investment management, risk management, and advisory services. BlackRock's wide range of investment products encompasses mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and hedge funds designed to suit various risk profiles and investment goals. BlackRock's target market primarily consists of institutional investors such as pension funds, insurance companies, endowments, and sovereign wealth funds. The company also caters to individual investors seeking professionally managed investment options through mutual funds and ETFs. BlackRock's reputation for expertise, global reach, and innovative solutions has attracted clients from various sectors seeking competent and reliable asset management services. BlackRock's leadership team consists of accomplished individuals with diverse expertise in the financial sector. Mr. Laurence Douglas Fink, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer and a co-founder of BlackRock, possesses extensive experience in finance and investments, steering the company's strategies and vision since its inception. BlackRock has displayed impressive financial performance. Despite challenges in the market, the company has maintained robust revenue growth, reflecting its ability to attract and retain clients. Additionally, BlackRock's earnings metrics have remained solid, underlining the effectiveness of its investment strategies and risk management practices. The company's profit margin metrics also highlight its efficiency in managing costs and generating profits. BlackRock's consistent focus on innovation and technological advancements, such as the Aladdin software, has likely contributed to improved profitability and operational effectiveness. Aladdin is a comprehensive investment management software platform developed by BlackRock, Inc. Aladdin stands for "Asset, Liability and Debt and Derivative Investment Network." BlackRock was initially created in the late 1980s as an internal risk management tool to help the company manage its investment portfolios. Over the years, Aladdin has evolved into one of the financial industry's most widely used and sophisticated investment management systems. Furthermore, BlackRock's prudent approach to managing its debt levels ensures a healthy financial position and minimizes financial risks. By maintaining a manageable debt-to-equity ratio, the company exhibits a responsible financial strategy, instilling confidence in investors. BlackRock's valuation metrics showcase the market's recognition of the company's strong performance and future growth potential. Compared to industry peers, BlackRock's valuation appears favorable, reflecting investor confidence in its ability to deliver sustained returns. The company's solid financial track record, extensive global reach, and diverse product offerings contribute to its attractive valuation. BlackRock operates in the highly competitive financial services industry, specifically in the asset management and custody banks sector. Several large players characterize the industry, each vying for market share and client assets. BlackRock's competitive advantage lies in its scale, global presence, and reputation for delivering consistent investment performance. As an industry leader, BlackRock benefits from economies of scale, allowing it to offer cost-effective investment solutions to its clients. The company's focus on ESG principles and risk management aligns with the growing demand for sustainable and responsible investment options, positioning it favorably in the industry. BlackRock's growth opportunities are abundant, fueled by global economic growth, expanding financial markets, and increased demand for investment products. The company's broad range of mutual funds, ETFs, and other investment vehicles cater to various investor preferences, offering diversified and tailored solutions. Moreover, the growing interest in ESG investing presents a significant growth avenue for BlackRock. As investors seek socially responsible investment options, the company's expertise in ESG integration can attract a broader client base. Furthermore, as technology continues to reshape the financial landscape, BlackRock has the opportunity to capitalize on digital innovations. The company's Aladdin platform, a sophisticated investment management system, has driven efficiency and risk management. By leveraging technology and data analytics, BlackRock can enhance its product offerings, expand its client base and deliver personalized investment solutions. In addition to organic growth, strategic acquisitions can be pivotal in expanding BlackRock's market presence. Selective mergers and partnerships can provide access to new markets, strengthen the company's capabilities and foster innovation. However, successful integration and alignment with the company's long-term vision are critical considerations in pursuing such opportunities. Despite its strong market position, BlackRock faces various risks and challenges that can impact its performance and direction. Market volatility, asset price fluctuations, and interest rate changes can affect the company's investment returns and lead to potential client redemptions. Moreover, regulatory changes and compliance requirements pose ongoing challenges for the financial industry. As governments implement new regulations and policies worldwide, BlackRock must adapt to the evolving regulatory landscape to ensure compliance and maintain its reputation as a responsible corporate citizen. The competitive landscape also presents challenges. As new players enter the market and existing competitors innovate, BlackRock must continuously differentiate itself and demonstrate its value proposition to retain and attract clients. Furthermore, cybersecurity threats are a growing concern for financial institutions. BlackRock's vast data and information infrastructure make it a potential cyberattack target. The company's proactive approach to cybersecurity and investment in robust risk management practices is crucial to safeguard its assets and protect client data. NorthWestern Energy Group, Inc. provides electricity and natural gas to residential, commercial, and various industrial customers. It generates, purchases, transmits, and distributes electricity; and produces, purchases, stores, transmits, and distributes natural gas, as well as owns municipal franchises to provide natural gas service in the communities. The company operates 6,597 miles of electric transmission and 18,534 miles of electric distribution lines with approximately 121 transmission and distribution substations; and 2,235 miles of natural gas transmission and 5,099 miles of natural gas distribution lines with approximately 135 city gate stations in Montana. It also operates 1,308 miles of electric transmission and 2,342 miles of electric distribution lines in South Dakota with approximately 121 transmission and distribution substations; and 55 miles of natural gas transmission and 2,545 miles of natural gas distribution lines in South Dakota and Nebraska. The company provides electricity and/or natural gas to approximately 764,200 customers in Montana, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Yellowstone National Park. NorthWestern Energy Group, Inc. was founded in 1923 and is based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Salesforce, Inc. is a cloud-based SaaS company founded by former Oracle exec Marc Benioff in 1999. Mr. Benioff founded the company with 3 partners who will remain active in management until nearly 2020. Larry Elison, a co-founder of Oracle, is a noteworthy early investor who helped propel the company to its success. The company is a leader in CRM or customer relationship management and is largely responsible for the proliferation of digitized CRM solutions that is ongoing today. The company was not immune to the DotCom bubble bursting and had to cut back its workforce and plans but the event is nothing but a blip on the radar now. Even then, the company could sustain a hyper-growth rate that saw revenue skyrocket from $0 in 1999 to over $100 million by the end of 2003. The company held its IPO in 2004 and raised $110 million. The hypergrowth continued until 2014 driven by the growing recognition among C-suite executives that digital CRM was the path to accelerated revenue and earnings growth. The company made multiple small acquisitions in the period leading up to 2014, but it was then that investment in other technology accelerated. Total spending in 2016 topped $5 billion and led to the acquisition of Slack in 2020. The company was added to the Dow Jones Industrial Average, instantly becoming the largest technology company in the index. The Slack acquisition came under some criticism due to the elevated cost the company paid. The track record of growth that includes sustained sequential growth through the end of 2022 put an end to the criticism. Today, Salesforce.com provides customer relationship management technology that brings companies and customers together worldwide. It is the 1st cloud stock to reach $1 billion in revenue, hitting that target in 2009. It is the worlds largest enterprise-level software provider and the 61st-largest company by market cap. In regards to US businesses, it is ranked 136th on the Forbes Fortune 500 list for 2022 when revenue topped $7.7 billion. The company offers its services via the Customer 360 platform. The platform is designed to deliver connected experiences for a business's customers in a way that delivers sales. Revenue is generated in 2 channels that include Sales and Service. The Sales offering stores data, monitors leads and tracks traffic progression through the sales funnel. It can forecast and provide other analytics as well as deliver quotes, contracts and invoices. The Service segment allows companies to provide personalized services and support at scale. Scale is the fundamental quality that drives Salesfoce.coms success because it has been able to scale and aid its clients when they scale. Among Services many offerings is the ability to create apps with a drag-and-drop builder tool. This segment also includes Slack which permits easy communication among business associates. Salesforce.com Ventures is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Salesforce.com. It is in business to invest in start-up and early growth phase businesses and has invested more than $5 billion since 2009. Ha Long Bay-Cat Ba Archipelago recognized as first inter-provincial world heritage site By Hoang Minh Mon, September 18, 2023 | 8:46 am GTM+7 The UNESCO has added Ha Long Bay-Cat Ba Archipelago in northern Vietnam to the World Heritage List, making it the first inter-provincial UNESCO-listed world heritage site in Vietnam. A corner of Cat Ba Island, Hai Phong city, northern Vietnam. Photo courtesy of Vietnam News Agency. UNESCO announced the new inscription of the Vietnamese site at the 45th working session of the World Heritage Committee in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia last Saturday. Located in the northern port city of Hai Phong, Cat Ba includes over 360 islands, of which Cat Ba is the largest. The island is surrounded by limestone karst mountains rising from turquoise waters that make it an ideal destination for cruise tours. Located to the east of Cat Ba is Lan Ha Bay that is home to around 400 islands, all of them covered with trees and other vegetation, and Cai Beo fishing village, known as the oldest in Vietnam. Ha Long Bay in Quang Ninh Province, around two hours to the east of Hanoi, was named by UNESCO as a world heritage site twice in 1994 and 2000. According to the Department of Cultural Heritage, the recognition was due to Ha Long Bay-Cat Ba Archipelago boasting natural beauty with limestone islands covered with vegetation and sharp limestone peaks rising above the sea with karst features such as domes and caves. The area is also home to critically-endangered species such as Cat Ba langur (Trachypithecus poliocephalus) assessed as Critically Endangered (IUCN, 2015) in the International Union for Conservation of Natures Red List of Threatened Species and in the Vietnam Red Book. It is home to various rare animals and plants, and houses the countrys largest maritime forest with an area of more than 17,000 hectares. Ambassador Le Thi Hong Van, head of the Permanent Mission of Vietnam to UNESCO, said that the recognition affirms international appreciation for Vietnams efforts to protect heritage sites. Industry insiders expected the recognition would contribute to promoting the tourism image of Ha Long Bay and Cat Ba Archipelago on global tourism map. Before the new addition, Vietnam was home to eight UNESCO-recognized world heritage sites, namely the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh province, Ha Long Bay in Quang Ninh province, the Hue Imperial Citadel City in Thua Thien-Hue province, Hoi An Ancient Town and My Son Sanctuary in Quang Nam province, Thang Long Imperial Citadel in Hanoi, the Citadel of the Ho Dynasty in Thanh Hoa province, and the Trang An Landscape Complex in Ninh Binh province. Intel has operated in HCMC for 13 years, and as of 2020, your factory had produced 2 billion units. Can you give us an update of the manufacturing situation and your companys contributions to the city? As of now, weve shipped over 3.5 billion products, cumulatively. Its worth noting that our 2 billionth unit rolled off the line in early 2020 - which highlights the production acceleration we are seeing at present. The first 2 billion took a little over a decade, the next billion took a little over a year. Starting from the chipset factory in 2010, Intel Vietnam today has a diverse portfolio including the newest Meteor Lake products, accounting for over 50% of the assembly and testing output. Since we came to Vietnam, we have generated around $78.6 billion in export value - with $11.5 billion in 2022 alone and $4.1 billion in the first half of 2023. This makes up about 52% of the HCMC Hi-Tech Parks total exports, 16% of the nations electronic/components export, and about 21% of the HCMCs total exports. Currently approximately 6,500 jobs have been created. What is your assessment of the current investment climate in Vietnam. How has it changed since Intel made its debut here? Vietnams stable socio-political environment, increasingly liberalized trade and investment policies, as well as the availability of a young and talented workforce have made it easier for Intel to continue investing in Vietnam. All these aspects help drive Vietnams overall business and technology production potential. Intels manufacturing presence here has clearly put Vietnam on the hi-tech map and shown that the country has all the necessary infrastructure and policies in place to support advanced manufacturing operations of any kind. What are the main factors that have sustained Intel in Vietnam for the past 13 years? The three factors that have kept us in Vietnam are: stable socio-political environment; a young and well-educated workforce; and excellent location, essentially in the center of Asia, with direct access to key trade lanes and shipping channels. Its been said Vietnam can become a regional chip manufacturing hub. What do you think? Vietnam has come a long way. Not just Intel, but other multinational companies are also present here. Over time, the number of foreign companies will continue to grow. At this point, the Vietnamese government needs to address the following issues: government incentives and streamlining administrative procedures. The current model that companies are aiming for requires resilience and geographical balance. This model needs to be placed in the right location at the right time with the right focus. Today, every country, indeed every corner of the world, requires semiconductor chips. Therefore, each nation should specialize in a specific area to maximize its strengths and create a competitive advantage. Since the competition is intense, what does Vietnam need to do to increase its attractiveness to high-tech businesses? As a result of the global corporate income minimum tax (GMT), many countries are providing cash grants (via CHIPS Act) to attract and retain foreign investors to invest in domestic semiconductor manufacturing, research & design. Vietnam should reconsider amending its incentive laws and offer cash grants in order to maintain its competitiveness and grow the semiconductor and technology industry. Currently, countries in the U.S., Europe, Japan and India are renewing their incentive programs for businesses, which are widely shared. Modernizing business support and incentive programs will be an essential action for the Vietnamese government, in addition to optimizing labor costs and political stability. Secondly, when we first entered the Vietnamese market, we were provided with a one-stop mechanism for all administrative procedures, they were smoothly streamlined, allowing us to swiftly execute our business plans. However, over time, things have gradually changed, presenting more challenges. Presently, approval procedures are divided among various responsible departments. We have engaged in numerous discussions with the government and hope to receive additional support to further streamline processes and administrative procedures. This is not only to maintain the number of existing FDI businesses but also to support future FDI enterprises. With the recent historical milestone of Vietnam-U.S. becoming comprehensive strategic partners, Vietnam will have more opportunities to attract FDI into the semiconductor industry, especially in HCMC, the nations economic hub. I hope the city's leadership will adopt the one-stop shop mechanism in making decisions to expedite direct interactions with investors for sustainable growth. One hears a lot about green development these days. What has Intel done regarding this and what are your future plans? Addressing the impacts of climate change is not something that a single company can tackle on its own. As one of the worlds leading semiconductor designing and manufacturing companies, we are uniquely positioned to drive sustainable solutions and address climate change, both through our own actions and by empowering the technology ecosystem. Our commitment to corporate responsibility and sustainability - built on a strong foundation of transparency, governance, and ethics - creates significant value for society, the communities in which we operate, our investors, our customers and other stakeholders. Sustainable business practices help mitigate risks, reduce costs, build brand value, and identify new market opportunities. Intel continuously looks for ways to improve its business and develop more sustainable technology solutions, as well as to collaborate with other organizations to advance best worldwide practices in corporate responsibility. Intel Products Vietnam has made efforts to minimize environmental impacts and target sustainable development. Intel's factory in Vietnam has saved more than 40 million KWH of electricity; used 2.68 million KWH of green electricity; reduced net emissions by more than 13,500 tons; and recycled and treated 100% of hazardous waste; recycled 95% of other waste; and saved and recycled 1 million m3 of water. Construction on Thai Binh province's VSIP industrial park to start early next year By Tri Duc Mon, September 18, 2023 | 8:51 pm GTM+7 Investors are set to begin construction of a Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park (VSIP) in northern Vietnam's Thai Binh province in spring 2024. A statement to this effect was made by the Thai Binh Economic Zone at a project progress review meeting held late last week. The $212-million VSIP Thai Binh will cover 333.4 hectares in Thai Thuy district. The project is now processing procedures related to fire prevention, environment protection, site clearance and several others aspects, the provincial industrial zones authority said. Edmund Chong, director general of Vietnam Singapore Industrial Park and Township Development JSC, said at the meeting that the firm has prepared resources and a deployment plan and called on the provincial authorities to help speed up relevant procedures. Edmund Chong (standing), director general of Vietnam Singapore Industrial Park and Township Development JSC, speaks at a meeting with Thai Binh authorities in the northern province, September 15, 2023. Photo courtesy of Thai Binh's news portal. Thai Binh Chairman Nguyen Khac Than emphasized that VSIP Thai Binh was a priority project and asked the provinces industrial park management agency to attract high-quality projects for the facility. Vietnams first VSIP was set up in the southern province of Binh Duong in 1996 during the administration of then Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, late father of incumbent Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. It was developed by the VSIP Group, a joint venture between Singaporean conglomerate Sembcorp Industries and Binh Duong-based industrial developer Becamex IDC. Vietnam is now home to 13 VSIPs, with work on VSIP Can Tho, also called the Vinh Thanh Industrial Park, beginning on September 9. So far, VSIP has supplied industrial real estate to 880 customers from 30 countries and territories, with a total registered investment of $18.7 billion and direct employment for 300,000 people. COLUMBIA -- Gov. Henry McMaster and the South Carolina Technical College System announced that 32,426 South Carolinians have earned an industry credential through McMaster's Workforce Scholarships for the Future program. The program provides scholarships to cover the cost of tuition and required fees at any of South Carolina's 16 technical colleges for any adult or recent high school graduate to pursue an industry credential or associate degree in high-demand career fields like manufacturing, healthcare, information technology, education, or logistics. "As South Carolina continues to attract major investments and tens of thousands of new jobs, developing our workforce is more important than ever," McMaster said. "Workforce Scholarships for the Future provide our people with the opportunity to learn the skills needed to take on these available, high-paying jobs and show current employers that South Carolina's workforce is ready to adapt to their needs. These scholarships are still available, so spread the word that there are good-paying jobs out there, and if you do the work, South Carolina will train you for them." In early 2021, McMaster invested $12 million in Governors Emergency Education Relief Funds (GEER Funds) in the S.C. Technical College System to train South Carolinians for available, high-demand jobs in the state. By the end of the year, the program reskilled and employed 5,000 South Carolinians. Due to the program's success, McMaster formally created Workforce Scholarships for the Future in November 2021. In July 2022, McMaster announced an additional $25 million investment into the program. "Our 16 colleges are committed to making higher education affordable and accessible for the citizens of South Carolina. This scholarship opens doors for South Carolinians, helping them get the training and education they need to work in high-demand fields across our state," said Dr. Tim Hardee, president of the S.C. Technical College System. "Together, we are working to build a ready, skilled workforce." In total, McMaster has awarded $55.6 million in GEER Funds to the S.C. Technical College System for Workforce Scholarships for the Future. As of July 31, 2023, $44.3 million has been expended at an average cost of $1,367 per student. We have more people working in South Carolina today than ever before, and Gov. McMaster is making sure that South Carolinians have every opportunity to be part of our thriving economy and workforce, said S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce Executive Director William Floyd. Scholarship recipients are required to maintain a 2.0 grade-point average and complete one of the following requirements: Complete 100 hours of volunteer time at a nonprofit or public-service organization; or Be employed; or Take a financial literacy course offered at the technical college. The General Assembly provided $93.7 million in the 2023-24 state budget to continue this initiative through the South Carolina Workforce Industry Needs Scholarship program. A new organization wants to curb gun violence, with a special focus on students throughout Orangeburg County. The organization is called Reclaiming Our Youth Services and it was founded by someone who experienced the loss of both of her sons to gun violence. I believe God is going to bless this organization in the county of Orangeburg, that we can make Orangeburg a model with a reduction in violence, that we can take it to the state and hopefully to the nation. As the leader of it, I have to believe that, said Michelle A. Wilson Green, ROYS founder. Green, a retired public school educator and principal, spoke to about two dozen local ministers and pastors about ROYS and its goals during a meeting held at New Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Orangeburg. ROYS is dedicated to supporting grieving mothers, promoting community activism and mentoring at-risk youth, Green said. The mission of ROYS is to, Inspire and equip the youth of today, in conjunction with their families, to live positive and productive lives in a global society, she said. The organization will promote communities where all individuals are making positive lifelong decisions. The organization is committed to its core values of self-love, integrity, positive choices and pride, she said. Youth of Orangeburg County are invited to learn more about the organization at the ROYS Community Awareness Day on Oct. 14. ROYS is also partnering with the Orangeburg County School District on Oct. 18 for a district-wide student pledge against gun violence. Green encourages local ministers and others who want to be part of ROYS efforts to contact the organization at www.reclaimingouryouthservices.com. ROYS is supported by Voices of Black Mothers United, a national non-profit organization headquartered in Washington, D.C., which is part of the Woodson Center. Wilson, of Orangeburg, founded ROYS not long after retiring from 32 years of service in public education in Berkeley and Orangeburg counties. Prior to her retirement, Green worked for 16 years as the principal of St. James-Gaillard Elementary School in Eutawville. Wilson founded ROYS after experiencing two unimaginable tragedies: the shooting deaths of her sons Isaac, 21, and Carlton, 22. Isaac was killed when he and a friend allowed a woman and her children to stay at their Columbia apartment. The woman was trying to avoid her boyfriend. The womans boyfriend shot into to the apartment several times on Nov. 20, 2006. Isaac, an Iraq War veteran, was killed. Isaacs killer is serving a 35-year prison sentence. Greens father died a year before Isaac was murdered. Her mother then died. Her husband was killed in a car accident just before Isaacs death. It was a sequence of events that led me to a low place, Green said. She then joined two support organizations: Parents of Murdered Children and Bereaved Parents of the United States. She began traveling across the nation leading workshops. Shed been visiting prisons and speaking to prisoners about the impacts their crimes have on victims. I was just giving it my all, she said. Green also wrote the book, Anything Can Happen. By 2013, she remarried and moved to Orangeburg. She retired from the school system the next year. I said, OK, this is something I can do full-time now. I can dedicate time to these organizations, she said. Carlton had moved to Orlando, Florida where he was attending college, but had taken the semester off to work. But nine years, three months and 11 days after Isaac was killed, Green received a message from one of Carltons friends via Facebook Messenger. The friend let her know that her son had been shot. Green next called Carltons friend on the phone. Thats when she told me that not only had he been shot, but he was dead, Green said. Green later learned that Carlton had been shot in his own apartment. Authorities told her that Carlton had opened the door to let the shooter in before he was killed. To this day, Carltons killer has not been arrested or identified. It remains a cold case. When I lost Carlton, it basically took me on a downward spiral I mean a deep, dark place, she said. I got up every day, I functioned, I did what I needed to do, but inside I was slowly dying, she said. I knew what it was like to lose my dad, my mom and my husband, but when you lose a child, it goes against the order of life, she said. Green told how she went to counseling a lot of it. I just kept searching. My faith never wavered, I just wanted to know why, she said. She said many ministers told her that it was OK to want to know why. One minister asked her, Will you be OK if you never get an answer? She struggled with the question. As she continued to search for some peace for the void she felt in her life, she discovered the national organization Voices for Black Mothers United. Just two weeks after joining the organization and having a few conversations with its executive director and other members, Green accepted the offer to be the leader of VOBMU for South Carolina. This is how I came up with the organization Reclaiming Our Youth Services because we have to work at reclaiming our youth, she said. Orangeburg County residents will have a chance to learn more about the organization on Oct. 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at ROYS Community Awareness Day. It is free and open to the public. It will be held at Right Direction Church International, located at 990 Willington Drive, Orangeburg. At the event, youth will learn about the student pledge against gun violence that theyll be offered to sign at their schools on Oct. 18. There will be youth activities and keynote speaker Keith Smalls will tell his story about what it was like to lose his son to gun violence. The next initiative for ROYS is scheduled for Oct. 18 at every public school in Orangeburg County. Green said the Orangeburg County School District has partnered with ROYS and the Student Pledge Against Gun Violence organization to distribute pledges to every student that day. The pledge cards ask students to promise to never bring a gun to school, to never use a gun to solve a conflict and to encourage their friends not to use a gun or bring a gun to school, Green said. Shes asking ministers and pastors across Orangeburg County to be present in the schools when students sign the pledges. We need you to help cover our schools, she told them. It is so obvious now that the enemy is at play. Hes roaming rampantly in our schools, she said. We worship inside the four walls (of a church), but weve got to work outside and this is want we want, she added. Green encourages ministers to make contact with the school of their choice by Oct. 2 to let them know they would like to visit during the pledge-signing events. The ministers are going to meet again after we do the pledge and we want this church packed, Green said. Green said the long-term goal of ROYS is to get together and initiate a violence reduction initiative in Orangeburg County, which will take some planning. Green told the crowd that shed like to have a program like one in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. That program is called Pastors on Patrol and it provides scheduled times for pastors and ministers to go into schools and pray. Were not talking about just yelling a prayer, but just praying among the kids anointing, touching places in the school, because it makes a difference. Im telling you it makes a difference, she said. Orangeburg County School District teachers and principals will be able to receive merit-based stipends thanks to a partnership with Voorhees University. The LIFE2: Leveraging Innovation for Educator Excellence federal grant will provide stipends to eligible K-12 teachers who teach core subjects. The stipends will be based on the students meeting certain criteria, such as performance on state testing and state learning objectives. Teachers will be able to receive a stipend of up to $3,500 based on student score assessments as part of the grant. It is just an added incentive for them to continue to grow students and keep the momentum going in the classroom in all aspects, OCSD Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Bernard E. Frost told trustees during their September board meeting. Principals can earn up to $7,500 if 85 percent of their students show one year growth in achievement and achieve an accountability grade of B or higher. Principals who sustain a good or excellent accountability grade or improve from good to excellent would also be eligible to receive up to a $7,500 stipend. Principals can also earn up to $3,750 if state accountability school grades improve from unsatisfactory to below average, from below average to average, or average to good. In related matters, trustees were informed about 67 certified teachers have received a $3,000 signing bonus as part of the Life2Grant with about 32 of the teachers being in special education and elementary education. The total grant that will be awarded to the district to help pay for the signing bonuses is about $201,000. The LIFE2 grant is focused on providing educational support for Calhoun and Orangeburg county school districts. The goals of the grant include recruiting and retaining certified educators; supporting, improving and increasing teacher efficacy and building the capacity of teachers and school leaders. In other matters: Trustees unanimously approved a Narcan distribution policy in the district. A new state law allows districts to offer naloxone, or Narcan-brand nasal spray to students and staff through the school nurses office. The drug is used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control is helping lead the effort alongside the S.C. Department of Education. DHEC says school resource officers have access to Narcan, but allowing nurses to also carry the product could save time if an emergency were to take place. Under the policy, each school will receive doses of Narcan and nurses and two first responders in the district will be trained on how to use the drug. All nurses and first responders will also be CPR certified, which is also critical in opioid overdose cases. Trustees voted 7-1 to donate the Holly Hill-Roberts Middle School, St. James-Gaillard Elementary School and Vance-Providence Elementary schools to the towns of Holly Hill, Eutawville and Vance, respectively, for the repurposing of the schools for community and town use. All three schools will close in the spring of 2025 as the new elementary school in Holly Hill will be ready for occupancy in the fall of 2025. Trustee Mary Ulmer voted in opposition, having previously questioned if the community residents have been consulted about the repurposing plans. Trustee R.L. Poppy Brown said Vance residents were informed about the plans, but acknowledged he could not speak on behalf of Holly Hill or Eutawville. The towns all cited their need for the buildings, saying they will help them grow and expand services for residents in their towns. In other business: Trustees were given an update on the William J. Clark Middle School and Lake Marion High School expansion projects. Trustees were informed the construction pad has been built at the Clark Middle School. Construction fencing has been erected, demolition of underground storm lines has occurred and the building pad being is being compacted. Materials have been ordered and new sewer lines will be installed next week, according to the school district. At Lake Marion, construction fencing has been erected and completed and the fiber line has been demolished from the building pad area Looking ahead, rough grading and installation of the building pad will continue, submittals for sewer lines have been approved, reinforcement steel bar is expected to arrive by the end of the month and footing will begin by months end. The high school is being expanded to add a wing for middle school students. The districts annual Fall Family Community Engagement Summit is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 21 at the Orangeburg County Library at 1645 Russell Street from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. The summit will highlight the services the district provides with federal money it receives for education. Barbecue will be served and the Marshall Elementary School drumline is scheduled to perform. Trustees were informed that the South Carolina Department of Education has discontinued its partnership with the S.C. Association of School Librarians, effective Aug. 25. The state will instead communicate with school librarians directly and provide ongoing professional development, according to district officials. SCASL will plan a face-to-face meeting with the State Department of Education in attempt to restore the partnership. District officials said the discontinuation of the partnership will not have an impact on school librarians remaining in district schools. Trustee Betty Pelzer was honored for receiving Level 4 recognition from the South Carolina School Boards Association Boardsmanship Institute. The SCSBAs recognition demonstrates Pelzers commitment to public education and governing excellence. Trustees recognized several Beta Club students from Holly Hill Elementary, Lockett Elementary, Edisto Elementary and St. James-Gaillard Elementary for their placement at the National Beta Club Convention held in Louisville, Kentucky this summer. Trustees were informed the district received $6.5 million in revenue for the month of August, with total expenses of $7.5 million. Expenses exceeded revenues because the district receives less local revenue at the beginning of every school year. Local revenue begins coming in around December, when property taxes start to come into the district. Holly Hill-Roberts Middle School eighth-grade teacher Gervaris Wearing was recognized as the districts Rookie Teacher of the Month for August. Holly Hill-Roberts Middle Schools Cathy Huger was recognized as the districts August Employee of the Month. Huger serves as the schools counselor but also works on a number of different tasks. Trustees held a moment of silence in honor of the late former District 4 board member Peggy James-Tyler and asked for prayers for her family. James-Tyler died Aug. 30 at the age of 80. Her seat will be filled by an appointment by the Orangeburg County Legislative Delegation. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 10 at 6:30 p.m. at 102 Founders Court in Orangeburg. The meetings are also livestreamed on the districts website. Five prisoners sought by the U.S. in a swap with Iran flew out of Tehran on Monday, officials said, part of a deal that saw nearly $6 billion in Iranian assets unfrozen. Thursdays evidentiary hearing in a lawsuit concerning public records about an event hosted by former State Superintendent of Public Instruction Brian Schroeder revealed significant gaps in the Wyoming Department of Educations handling of public records requests. Defendant Linda Finnerty, who is responsible for handling public records requests and serves as the departments chief communications officer, said she had never received training on how to handle these requests, and that a standard protocol for processing requests isnt written down anywhere in formal policy. Finnerty also said she wasnt aware when the plaintiffs initially requested records about the event that writing on personal devices and accounts concerning agency business can be considered public records. She also wasnt aware that instant messages wouldnt be included when she asked agency employees to hand over emails concerning the event. Whats more, the search terms used to look for the records werent initially adequate to cover everything the plaintiffs had requested, and there were gaps in who in the agency was initially asked to produce records related to the request. Finnerty said multiple times that she had made mistakes throughout the process of handling the public records requests that the case concerns. Rodger McDaniel, a plaintiff and attorney, asked Finnerty whether it would be fair to conclude from her testimony that a citizen cannot rely on your representations in response to an open records request. Finnerty denied that characterization. Several times youve said you made mistakes or there were oversights or you came to learn certain things, McDaniel followed up. You didnt know about instant messages or what to do about Mr. Schroeders refusal to turn over certain public records. And then you said, At this point weve been very thorough. At what point did you become thorough? When I began receiving responses back from yourself that things were missing, I continued to dig deeper and dig deeper throughout the process, Finnerty responded. The complaint, which was filed in February, centers around Schroeders Stop the Sexualization of our Children event that he hosted in October at Little America in Cheyenne shortly before the end of his administration (Schroeder was ousted in the Republican primaries last year by current State Superintendent Megan Degenfelder). Plaintiffs on the suit are McDaniel and George Powers, a Cheyenne attorney. McDaniel and Powers are representing themselves in the case. Schroeders Oct. 25 event, which was attended by roughly 150 people, focused on the issue of parental authority and standing up against the inappropriate sexualization of kids in Wyoming, a topic which had been a focus of Schroeders campaign. Parents, lawmakers and representatives of No Left Turn in Education a parental rights organization that has cracked down on school libraries across the country spoke at the event. McDaniel and Powers sought information from the WDE about who had paid for the event, first contacting the agency in October prior to Schroeders event. They filed their lawsuit after a drawn-out back-and-forth with Finnerty and Schroeder during which McDaniel and Powers pushed the two to produce records about the event. The plaintiffs have argued that the agencys response to their records requests was inadequate, that state officials couldnt show they had made a good-faith effort to find and share the records they had asked for and that defendants have made repeated misrepresentations of material facts. Schroeder initially intended to organize the event through the department of education in his official capacity as state superintendent of public instruction. But on Oct. 19, the Wyoming Department of Education issued a statement saying that Schroeder had decided to separate the press conference from the Wyoming Department of Education, and that no state funds would be used to pay for the event. Finnerty explained in the courtroom Thursday that, by participating in the event, the agency would be taking a position on something that we dont have a purview in. Schroeder told reporters at the press conference that he had paid for the event with his own funds, as well as with donations from unnamed persons. He said the event had cost roughly $3,000, and that he had received help from Wyoming Moms for Liberty groups to organize the press conference. However, public records produced by the department through Powers and McDaniels requests show that a little more than $2,416 in state funds were in fact used to pay for airfare and lodging for No Left in Education representatives. Part of that cost was later reimbursed with two donations amounting to $2,000. Schroeder, who had traveled from Arizona to attend the hearing in person, said on Thursday that the rest of the expenses had also be paid off with private money. Finnerty, who is responsible for approving these spending logs, said she didnt notice the name of Elana Fishbein, founder of No Left Turn in Education and a speaker at Schroeders event, when she approved these particular expenses. Im not necessarily looking at who the ticket might have been bought for, Finnerty said. Im looking at the budget, and that all the transactions are accounted for. Trent Carroll, chief operations officer at WDE, later said in his testimony that its best practice to review all the supporting material in the spending logs. Though the records were in the possession of the WDE, Finnerty told McDaniel in their correspondences that there were no records about spending because the event wasnt funded by the agency. Finnerty acknowledged during the Thursday evidentiary hearing that, in hindsight, this was a false statement, and that her statements about this to McDaniel were a mistake. Senior Assistant Attorney General Mackenzie Williams, who is representing the defendants, which include the WDE itself in addition to Finnerty and Schroeder, conceded that plaintiffs made some legitimate criticisms about records and records that could have been responsive. But, he continued, the plaintiffs also added additional topics and suggested that the department should have known all along to include those topics. Whenever she received those requests, those additional correspondences, Ms. Finnerty continued to search additional locations and in each case was able to locate some additional records. Records in Schroeders possession were an exception to this, Williams added. Schroeder initially declined to hand over personal emails account and text messages related to the plaintiffs records request when Finnerty asked for them, according to testimony. Finnerty said she didnt have authority to overrule the former superintendents decision. He came into my office and said that hed been consulting with his attorney and that he wasnt sure he was going to provide those records, Finnerty testified. She didnt recall if he offered an explanation as to why he didnt want to produce the records. Finnerty said she informed Williams that Schroeder declined to hand over the records but didnt inform anyone else at the agency. I wouldnt have seen that as proper protocol. Schroeder explained in his testimony on Thursday that he initially withheld these records while waiting to see if he was required under law to hand them over. He added that he waited because he was told the plaintiffs wanted the names of the donors who contributed to the event to destroy them. I had promised anonymity to the donors, and I was intent on keeping my promise. Schroeder said that, in addition to Williams, he consulted several people former Deputy Superintendent of Instruction Chad Auer, State Attorney General Bridget Hill, Wyoming GOP General Counsel Brian Shuck and Cheyenne attorney Drake Hill about whether the Wyoming Public Records Act required him to turn over these records and received mixed advice. Schroeder did eventually produce records from his personal phone. At the request of Judge Steven Sharpe, who is presiding over the case, Schroeder agreed to hand over his phone so that it could be checked for any additional records. Despite the missteps made in the process of producing the records that Powers and McDaniel had requested, Williams argued this doesnt show plaintiffs had malicious intent. I think the plaintiffs have some legitimate points in terms of yes, these record searches should have been better, Williams said. But, he said, the defendants seem continuously willing to take what they have learned in the process and provide more records. Theres no actual indication of bad faith or a willful or intentional violation of the Public Records Act. As for Schroeders initial unwillingness to turn over records, Williams argued that he didnt violate the Public Records Act because he believed, at the very least, that it was arguable whether he had to produce those records. But McDaniel argued that the defendants response to the records request showed a willing blindness. They say that they were confused, that they had gotten mixed signals. Well, if youre a public records officer and youre getting mixed signals, you go look, you get more information. As for Schroeder, Powers said he doesnt understand Schroeders ability to defend his decision to stonewall his own information officer when she came to him and asked to see his personal accounts. Mr. Schroeder deliberately, knowingly and intentionally withheld those records, and he did not produce them until after this lawsuit was filed, and that, your Honor, is a defeat of the entire purpose of the Public Records Act. Before the railway system closed, and reversed the fortunes of vast swathes of Trinidad, there was a thriving village called St Johns, deep in the interior of Trinidad, where people lived with little complaint. No one became rich, but no one went without since there was wildlife cavorting right behind your house, you ate what you planted in forest gardens, and people lived in airy homes constructed strong by the village men using the timber pulled out of the bush by bison power. A businesswoman on nine charges, following allegations of $525,700 in vehicle fraud, has bee Flashback, July 2017: Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley, right, and Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar greet each other at The Diplomatic Centre in St Anns before the start of their meeting to discuss several matters, including Internal Self-Government for Tobago, Campaign Finance Reform, Anti-Gang Legislation, Difficulty within the Judiciary, The Integrity Commission, Service Commissions effectiveness, and Code of Conduct for Members of Parliament. Photo: Office of the Prime Minister 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. For saying absolutely nothing in 126 words, yesterdays media release from Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley on the crime crisis would be hard to beat. Following the fatal shooting of eight men between Sunday night and Monday afternoon, Dr Rowley issued a statement describing crime in Trinidad and Tobago as now gone beyond concerning to the ridiculous. The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer: I am very concerned that the Common Core math being taught in school is not preparing the students for the situations they will need upon graduation. My college major was a BS in Mathematics and Chemistry, followed by an MBA. Positions I have had over the years include military mathematician, surveyor, appraiser, Mortgage Broker, Realtor, business owner, programming and construction. I have been a volunteer math tutor in two school districts, grades 4-12, for nine years. Common Core is supposed to help prepare students for college, yet 43% of the students dont start college. Of those that do, 24% drop out the first year, and only 29% continue on to graduation. Upon graduation, only 11% of the jobs involve work that requires Algebra 2 concepts. Only 6% advanced mathematics. Yet we are trying to train students for problems they will never encounter in adulthood to the detriment of learning to solve problems that they will. How many of us have needed to calculate standard deviations, linear regression or solve for f(x) since graduation? Common core emphasizes math concepts at the expense of teaching students how to solve problems they will encounter in life. In my career which has been more technical than most people, 95% of the math I needed could be solved by add, subtract, multiply, divide, fractions, percentages, and how to apply formulas for common shapes and situations. Reliance on the computer to the detriment of critical thinking is another place where Common Core fails. Example, the student is shown a picture of a rectangle with dimensions of 8 units by 12 units. Select answer A, B, C D. They dont know their multiplication table, so they open their calculator and enter 8 12 = 96 and click on the answer C. On to the next question like a video game. Change that problem to how much paint is needed to paint their classroom walls with dimensions of 30ft 35ft 8ft, given that a gallon of paint covers 200sf and many are lost. They cannot visualize the room as four rectangles, that you calculate the square feet in each, add them together and divide by 200 to get the gallons of paint needed for the job. A very common error is to multiply the three numbers together, the volume, and divide by 200. I give a test with these type of questions at the end of the school year, and no one has gotten over 50% on it. Yet, most of those taking it have passed their math requirements needed to graduate. Not learning practical math has been going on for years. When I was working in lending, I would bring up budgeting with a customer. They didnt teach us that in school! Yes they did. It was called addition and subtraction, total income minus total expenses. This was a revelation to some. Most people do not learn from theory, they learn from examples and generalize from there. You can tell someone the volume of a cylinder is V = Pi R2 H, but it doesnt mean much unless they can relate it to something that interests them. E.g., for a future plumber explain how it would be used to calculate the amount of water flowing through a pipe. As a tutor, I am not dealing with the top students in the class; they will do well with any teaching method. My concern is the one size fits all that is geared to the top of the class is leaving the majority of our students without the math they need to function as adults. California found that its students performed significantly better when they abandoned the Common Core standards and implemented their own curriculum. As an Arizonan, I do not agree with many of Californias public policy decisions, however, this is one case where I do. If you've ever looked at the headlines and thought to yourself, "What the heck is going on?" you're not alone. I'm right there with you. Have you thought, said or heard the phrase: "My vote doesn't matter." I hear this phrase from all sides of the political spectrum. Republicans feel as if their votes don't matter because the current primary system heavily favors their party, so there's really no reason to participate. Democrats feel as though their votes have no weight at all due to their lack of representation in state government. Independents and Libertarians often share the same sentiment because they have few or no choices. My friends and I want to be hopeful for our state's future, but we all feel completely powerless and like no one values us. I'm 17 years old and a senior at Oologah-Talala. Many of my peers accept that their votes don't make a difference. In the 2020 election, Oklahoma ranked next to last in the nation in voter turnout, with only Texas lagging, according to an analysis of federal election data. By 2022, Oklahoma had fallen to last place, with only 55% of the eligible population casting a ballot. Yale University found that it's vital for young people to vote because voting is habitual. People who vote from the age of 18 are more likely to vote in the future. My generation has lost faith in politics, so they are less likely to vote. Under 25% of eligible voters younger than 30 cast ballots last November. Why does my generation have such a lackluster view of voting? Independents, the largest growing political group in Oklahoma, are barred from Republican primaries, yet Republicans hold every statewide and congressional seat in our state and a supermajority in the Legislature. Democrats have voluntarily permitted unaffiliated voters in their primaries, but it's still not a level playing field for all voters. Regardless of their party affiliation, I want our elected officials to confront issues that young people worry about: education, health care, public safety and the cost of living. The accomplishments, and lack thereof, have left Oklahoma 46th in the nation for youth well-being as reported by the national Kids Count annual report. This downward trend will continue as long as Oklahoma's voters neglect the ballot booth. Why? Because our collective apathy disconnects the people from the officials. How do we restore faith in our political system? Many states have increased voter turnout through primary election reform. An open primary system allows all voters to participate in primary contests, regardless of political affiliation or nonparty registration. Six of the highest turnout states in 2022 were states with open primaries. Oklahoma is the only state among our neighbors with a closed primary system. Voter turnout is a key sign of a healthy democracy. Open primaries don't just increase voter turnout. They also have the ability to advance centrist political candidates motivated by topics that concern all aspects of daily life. Moderates or centrists have few chances of appearing on the general election ballot, where all eligible Oklahomans can cast a vote. These results-oriented politicians have potential to help Oklahoma by focusing on commonsense legislation and responding with solutions that improve the quality of life for all of us. Centrist representatives are more likely to end gridlock in Congress. Brookings found that the presence of centrists in elected bodies creates a 10% decrease in gridlock. Oklahoma's growing number of independent or unaffiliated voters, now over 400,000 out of the approximately 2.2 million registered total, demonstrates that gridlock between two major parties is not what our citizens want. We want rational and relatable research, deliberation and solutions to issues impacting all Oklahomans, young and old. All of these facts are why I volunteer for Oklahoma United for Progress , a nonpartisan organization working to repeal closed primaries to free Oklahomans to vote in all elections. Oklahoma United is right there with us because it wants what's best for Oklahoma in a way I haven't seen in any other organization. Our grassroots efforts connect Oklahomans to the patriotic cause of a better democracy. I'm channeling my frustration and disappointment into a positive and lasting reform that helps all of us. All of our electorate deserves to be represented, including my friends and me. When we see higher voter turnout, moderate representation and a decrease in gridlock, we can get to a healthier Oklahoma. At the end of the day, whether you're Republican, Democrat, Libertarian, or somewhere in between, that's a future that we can all hope for. I'm a high school senior, and I want open primaries. Kimberlee Wilson is a senior at Oologah-Talala High School. Michael Dekker Tulsa World Business Writer Follow Michael Dekker 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 A venture capital firm has reached $80 million in seed funding for various companies, including at least three in Tulsa, it recently announced. Oklahoma City-based Cortado Ventures launched its second fund last year with the intent of bringing innovation and ingenuity to energy, logistics and life sciences. This funding close will bring Cortados total assets under management to more than $110 million in less than three years, making it one of the largest in the region and the largest venture capital firm of its kind in Oklahoma. Tulsa companies benefiting include Payfactory, PatchRX and nSight. Cortado Ventures Fund II is four-times larger than our Fund I, which reflects a maturing startup ecosystem and the solidification of Oklahoma, said Nathaniel Harding, Cortado Ventures managing partner. We launched the firm to build next generation companies that will bring future-ready technology jobs to the region. There has been high interest in both Fund I and II creating a momentum that has captured the attention of many throughout Oklahoma and beyond. Cortado Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm that invests in ambitious, growth-driven companies in Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Colorado, Kansas and New Mexico. It has invested in nine new companies from Fund II with a goal of 30. Over the last three years there has been an explosion of companies and others working with startups, Harding said. We like to invest in startups that have solutions for other businesses. Nearly 100 partners have made investments in Cortado, including the Southwestern Oklahoma State University Foundation, WatersEdge Foundation, Presbyterian Health Foundation and Citizens Bank of Edmond. Recently, Cortados Fund II has invested in companies with Oklahoma and regional bases or strong ties, including Moat Biotechnology, which is developing nasal and oral vaccines for a number of infectious diseases, including SARS-Cov2; NUVIEW, revolutionizing the Earth observation industry by building the first commercial satellites designed to map the planets entire land surface with LiDAR; PayFactory, whose technology provides infrastructure enabling software companies to become payment facilitators; Lumata Health, a technology-driven company focused on preventing blindness from chronic eye conditions; and Motive, creating an all-in-one automotive retail experience. Cortados Fund I, which closed in 2021 and raised $20 million, has invested in 28 companies to date, culminating in more than $700 million total enterprise value and creating more than 100 high-paying technology jobs. Cortados closing of Fund II is a game-changer for Oklahoma. It demonstrates continued confidence in Cortados investment abilities and excitement about Oklahomas expanding technology ecosystem. This is the type of success our state can build on, said Sean Kouplen, chairman and CEO of Regent Bank and former Oklahoma secretary of commerce and workforce development. Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton Tulsa World Staff Writer Follow Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton 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 Summer awards: Tulsa Public Schools announced Tuesday that its summer programming has received awards from two national organizations. BellXcel named the district a recipient of a RISE Initiative Grant, which will provide $50,000 over two years for the planning and implementation costs associated with summer programming. Additionally, the National Summer Learning Association selected TPS as a recipient of the New York Life Foundations Excellence in Summer Learning Award, which comes with $10,000 and connections to professional development opportunities for staff. Along with the districts day camp-style summer school in July for elementary and middle school grades, TPS also offers Kravis Summer Arts Camp, a June day camp through TPS Before and After Care program, and culturally-focused day camps for Indigenous students across all grades through TPS Indian Education Program. In 2023, more than 7,000 students participated in at least one of the districts summer programs. Hispanic Heritage Month Festival: Tulsa Public Schools will host its Hispanic Heritage Festival from 4-9 p.m. Saturday at the Gathering Place. The free event will feature food, music and local vendors. Information session: Union Alternative School will host a forum at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday for high school students who have applied or are interested in attending the school. Student attendance at the forum is mandatory in order to sign up for a screening interview. New leadership: Camp Fire Green Country has named Amy Hilligoss the organizations new chief executive officer. A graduate of Kansas State University, Hilligoss has been with Camp Fire for nine years. The nonprofit organization works with more than 1,000 students across northeastern Oklahoma through after-school programs, summer camps and leadership development programming. Stay home day: Dove Science Academy classes wont be held Friday due to parent-teacher conferences. School board calendar: The boards of education for Bartlesville, Catoosa and Tulsa public schools are scheduled to meet Monday. The state CareerTech Board of Education is scheduled to meet Thursday. Tim Stanley Tulsa World Staff Writer Follow Tim Stanley 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 After providing more than 24,500 tutoring sessions last school year for student readers, a Tulsa-area nonprofit literacy program hopes to build on the number this year by recruiting more volunteer tutors. Reading Partners Tulsa officials say they have set a goal for this year of 1,250 community volunteers. Last year, 967 volunteer tutors participated across 24 elementary schools, investing one hour a week reading one-on-one with a student. The numbers are part of Reading Partners recently released report for the 2022-23 school year. Other highlights for the year include: 734 students received 12 or more sessions of one-on-one tutoring. 83% of all Reading Partners students finished the year meeting or exceeding their primary end-of-year literacy growth goals. 18,605 books were distributed to students through Reading Partners Take Reading With You program. Reading Partners Tulsa Executive Director Olivia Martin said the program targets students in the early grades because thats where it makes the most difference. Students who reach grade-level reading proficiency prior to entering fourth grade are statistically much more likely to achieve academic success, attend and persist in college, and graduate with strong career prospects, Martin said. The volunteers who serve as tutors range from retirees and local high school and college students to corporate, civic and nonprofit employees. Rosemary Harris, whos been tutoring for five years, encourages anyone who might be interested in volunteering to give it a shot. Everyone should join us, said Harris, now a member of the programs advisory board. Spending time with students is life-changing for my students and for me. Reading is the foundation for all learning, and only an hour a week can make a real impact. One reason the work of Reading Partners is more critical now: Oklahomas state superintendent has been critical regarding Tulsa Public Schools reading proficiency rates. The district has agreed to present a plan to the State Board of Education for training educators on the science of reading. Reading Partners includes an online tutoring platform called Reading Partners Connects. Largely developed to help support students during the pandemic, it is continuing to be developed and improved. About 11% of last years sessions were delivered online, officials said. Reading is a civil right and a civic responsibility, and Reading Partners Tulsa will never tire of partnering with our community to support a bright future for every student, Martin said. The organization, she added, is committed to championing universal reading proficiency for every student in our community before fourth grade. Reading Partners is a national effort focusing on 12 regions across the country. Over the past 25 years, it has mobilized more than 80,000 volunteers to provide more than 2.7 million individualized literacy tutoring sessions to more than 75,000 elementary school students in more than 500 under-resourced schools. To read the Reading Partners report, find out how to volunteer and get more information, go to readingpartners.org. <&rule> The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today.(tncms-asset)0c1de648-52fb-11ee-aa88-87df419c3c87[0](/tncms-asset) Anna Codutti Tulsa World Breaking News Editor Follow Anna Codutti 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 An updated vaccine to help protect the bodys ability to fight the latest COVID-19 strains is expected to start arriving in Oklahoma for distribution later this month and into early October, state health officials say. On Tuesday, federal regulators approved a new recommendation for COVID-19 vaccinations targeting the subvariant called XBB.1.5. This shot will differ from the current, bivalent vaccines, according to the Oklahoma State Department of Health. The current vaccines were formulated to protect against virus strains that more prevalent earlier in the pandemic. The new monovalent vaccine shows effectiveness against the omicron-type strain of COVID-19 that accounts for about 20% of current infections. Another variant called EG.5, genetically not much different from XBB.1.5, also represents about 20% of current infections. Many of these cases involve transmission among those who had immunity through vaccination or previous infection. This could indicate that the effectiveness of last falls bivalent booster shots is waning just in time for the new vaccines. We encourage Oklahomans to talk with their trusted health care providers to discuss if they are up to date with their boosters and if they have any questions or concerns about the vaccine or COVID, State Health Department spokeswoman Erica Rankin-Riley said. We know this virus mutates, so it is likely there will be other variants in the future. Because the shots can take as long as 90 days to be fully effective, public health officials recommend seeking out the new vaccine ahead of a possible winter uptick in COVID transmission. For people with health insurance, most plans will cover COVID-19 vaccinations at no cost to the patient. Most Oklahoma children up to 18 years old are eligible to receive the shots through the Vaccines for Children Program, Rankin-Riley said. For uninsured and underinsured adult patients, a limited supply will be available through the federal Centers for Disease Control and Preventions Bridge Access Program only through public health departments and associated clinics, Indian Health Service providers and other approved providers. Many Oklahomans may already have noticed a late-summer uptick in COVID cases, which is evident in wastewater monitoring efforts across the state. The statewide average for COVID-19 found in wastewater increased over 1,500% from June to September, according to data shared by the Tulsa Health Department. The symptoms of predominant COVID strains havent changed much, with most people having cold-like upper respiratory issues. Being vaccinated doesnt guarantee prevention of infection but may protect against severe illness, hospitalization and death, as well as reduce the risk of long COVID. Anyone exposed to COVID-19 who develops symptoms should get tested, stay home and isolate regardless of vaccination status, officials say. Wear a mask and wash hands often to avoid transmission of the virus. <&rule> The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today.(tncms-asset)0c1de648-52fb-11ee-aa88-87df419c3c87[1](/tncms-asset) Two major Chinese groups, including China Railway Group Limited (CREC) and Power China, expressed their interest in getting involved in infrastructure projects in Vietnam during their meetings with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in China on Saturday. The meetings took place on the occasion of the Vietnamese government leaders attendance at the 20th China-ASEAN Expo and China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit on Saturday and Sunday. Chen Yun, chairman of the executive board of CREC, said the group is the contractor of the Cat Linh - Ha Dong urban railway project in Hanoi, a wind power project in the Central Highlands province of Dak Nong, and a tire factory in southern Tien Giang Province, with the contract value of US$640 million, $18.1 million, and $5 million, respectively. He expressed his interest in engaging in the construction of approved railway projects in Vietnam. In response, PM Chinh acknowledged CRECs operation experiences in Vietnam, affirming that the Vietnamese government welcomes foreign enterprises, including those from China, to expand investment and business in the Southeast Asian nation. Vietnam considers the development of infrastructure, including traffic facilities, as one of its strategic breakthroughs. The Vietnamese government chief and the CREC chairman also discussed a plan to develop the 388-kilometer Hanoi-Lao Cai-Hai Phong railway in northern Vietnam. Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (R, 2nd) talks with Wang Xiaojun (L, 2nd), deputy general manager of Power China, in China, September 16, 2023. Photo: Duy Linh / Tuoi Tre Wang Xiaojun, deputy general manager of Power China, also revealed the firms plans to invest in power and infrastructure projects in Vietnam. PM Chinh hailed Power Chinas global business activities and its investment and business projects in Vietnam, saying the plans were in line with Vietnams strategic breakthroughs in infrastructure, including traffic and energy infrastructure. He asked Power China to further work with Vietnamese agencies to execute projects, especially wind and solar power ones, in the spirit of harmonizing interests and sharing risks. The Vietnamese official also welcomed Power China to join express railway projects in Vietnam in a feasible and effective manner. During meetings with the two groups leaders, PM Chinh also emphasized the cooperation in conducting infrastructure projects linking the two countries, including high-speed railways, in which the two groups expressed their interest. He suggested CREC and Power China work with the Vietnamese Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Planning and Investment, and the Commission for the Management of State Capital at Enterprises to further discuss the cooperation possibility. Such projects will contribute to enhancing the trade cooperation between the two countries, PM Chinh said. However, the firms have to ensure the progress, quality, and safety of projects as well as environmental protection. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Eleven Japanese students traveled to Vietnam to receive vocational training at Cao Thang Technical College in Ho Chi Minh City for one month. This is the first student exchange program jointly run by Cao Thang Technical College and Japans National Institute of Technology (KOSEN). A training course by Nguyen Van Thong, deputy dean of the mechanical engineering faculty at Cao Thang Technical College, started to be attended by 11 young Japanese people in mid-September. In his class, which includes both Vietnamese and Japanese students, Thong provides them with the fundamental principles of machines and practical skills. He uses English as the medium of instruction. After some theoretical lessons, these students experience practice by operating machines and working on an industrial production line. I have spent a lot of time and enhanced efforts to prepare for the lessons in this vocational training course. All documents for the lessons were translated carefully, Thong said. The Japanese students were eager to learn about broader knowledge. They raised several tough questions." We have taught our students how to use various machines, including ones manufactured by Japan. The training course of mechanical engineering was part of the Japanese students one-month apprenticeship program. They had earlier spent many days studying electrical refrigeration, and electrical and electronic engineering. Kusunoki Takeru, who majors in electronic engineering, said that in Japan, students will take some technical and technology subjects before entering their major. Despite having already studied mechanical engineering and electrical refrigeration, Takeru got deeper knowledge about these majors in Vietnam than in Japan. Apart from macro-knowledge, the Japanese students were also taught about household electrical refrigeration. I can now repair refrigerators at home, Takeru said. Nguyen Huu Quyen, deputy dean of the heat and cold engineering faculty at the college, said that many experts from Japans air conditioner manufacturer Daikin Industries Ltd. were invited to the training course to upskill the Vietnamese and Japanese students. Experiencing Vietnamese education, culture Dr. Le Dinh Kha, principal of Cao Thang Technical College, said that the exchange of the 11 Japanese students is part of the international cooperation between the college and KOSEN. Multiple Japanese students had visited the college earlier and engaged in some competitions. However, this is the first time that Japanese students have come to study for one month, Dr. Kha said. Besides learning technical subjects, these students learn English and Vietnamese language lessons. The program is aimed at giving the foreign students educational and cultural experiences in Vietnam. Toyosaki Haruto, whose major is mechanical engineering, is impressed by the colleges Vietnamese lessons. The Japanese students are taught how to spell Vietnamese words and form basic sentences. Haruto can now use Vietnamese to buy things and bargain with vendors. I also know a set of behavioral etiquette of walking, greeting, and communication in Vietnam. I am really excited about cultural lessons in such a technical college, said Haruto. Meanwhile, Torigata Ichita is pleased by out-of-school activities. They have been taken to numerous famous historical relic sites in Ho Chi Minh City, including the historic Cu Chi Tunnels. Through sightseeing tours, they could feel the value of peace, and the loss and sufferings of wars. Some teachers invited us to join cooking courses where various Vietnamese dishes were cooked, Ichita said, adding that Vietnamese dishes are tasty. On the other hand, we held some sessions to introduce Japanese culture to Vietnamese friends, said the Japanese student. Apprenticeship in Japan Takeru said that the majority of Japanese students like going to university. However, those who cherish technical majors prefer vocational facilities to universities. The number of young Japanese people taking vocational training courses is on the decrease. Among them, outstanding students will be selected for a special apprenticeship program, called KOSEN. KOSEN is a five-year engineering education program for students aged 15 or older who do not continue their high school education after graduating from a middle school. The program provides students with higher education in engineering. Engineering courses offered through KOSEN include mechanical engineering, electrical and electronics engineering, chemistry and biochemistry, material science, and information technology, said Takeru. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh arrived in San Francisco on Sunday afternoon (local time), starting his seven-day trip to attend the high-level General Debate of the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session and other activities. PM Chinh was welcomed at San Francisco International Airport by the U.S. citys administration representatives, Vietnamese Ambassador to the U.S. Nguyen Quoc Dung, Vietnamese Consul General in San Francisco Hoang Anh Tuan, and some other consular officials. Accompanying PM Chinh are nine Ministers of Public Security; Foreign Affairs; Planning and Investment; Finance; Industry and Trade; Culture, Sports, and Tourism; Information and Communications; Health; and Natural Resources and Environment. As scheduled, PM Chinh will meet the Vietnamese community in San Francisco upon his arrival and will receive representatives of typical overseas Vietnamese businesses in the city one day later. During his trip, the PM will attend and deliver a speech at the high-level General Debate of the 78th UNGA session at the General Assembly Hall of the UN Headquarters in New York City. The event will take place under the theme, 'Rebuilding Trust and Reigniting Global Solidarity: Accelerating Action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals towards Peace, Prosperity, Progress, and the Sustainability for All.' Vietnams Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh shakes hands with a representative of the administration of the U.S. city of San Francisco when he arrived there on September 17, 2023 (local time). Photo: Duy Linh / Tuoi Tre PM Chinh is also expected to speak at the UN Climate Ambition Summit and the UN High-Level Meeting (HLM) on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response (PPPR), also in New York. As part of his week-long stay, the Vietnamese government leader will attend a Vietnam - U.S. business forum on technology and innovation, visit large corporations such as NVIDIA, Meta, and Synopsys in San Francisco, and receive a number of local leaders. He will also meet UN leaders and have bilateral meetings with senior leaders of countries and international organizations, among other activities. Vietnamese Ambassador to the U.S. Nguyen Quoc Dung (R) shakes hands with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh at San Francisco International Airport in San Francisco, the U.S., September 17, 2023 (local time). Photo: Duy Linh / Tuoi Tre At a press briefing in Hanoi last week, Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokeswoman Pham Thu Hang stressed that the PMs trip to the U.S. is extremely important to concretize the outcomes of U.S. President Joe Bidens recent visit to Vietnam, which took place on September 10-11, during which the two countries released a joint statement to upgrade the Vietnam-U.S. relations to comprehensive strategic partnership. PM Chinh will wrap up his U.S. trip on Saturday and leave for Brazil on the same day for an official four-day visit at the invitation of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! China and ASEAN should quickly complete negotiations for the third version of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said at the opening of the 20th China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) and China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit (CABIS) in China on Sunday. PM Chinh on Sunday afternoon wrapped up his trip to neighboring China to attend the two events in Nanning City, the capital city of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China, on Saturday and Sunday. Delivering a speech at the opening of the two events, he suggested the governments of China and ASEAN countries boost their bilateral trade relations in a balanced and sustainable manner. Their trade surged to US$975.6 billion last year from $78.2 billion in 2003, making them each others largest trade partner. PM Chinh thus called for the two sides efforts to make ASEAN Chinas first partner to reach trade value of $1 trillion. He also urged the two sides to expand the piloting of smart border gates to meet their trade demand. The Vietnamese government leader affirmed that Vietnam supports the cooperation between China and ASEAN in the open-minded, sincere, reliable, and equal spirit for the prosperity of nations in the region and in the world. ASEAN and China should foster the traffic infrastructure connection and build linkage chains from raw material areas to production centers and consumption systems, the Vietnamese official said. We share the same goals and larger mutual benefits when jointly supporting the corporate community to expand their investment, production, and business, creating livelihoods for residents and foundations for peace, stability, and long-term cooperation in the region and in the world as a whole. China and ASEAN established the first version of their free trade area in 2010 and laucnhed an upgraded version in 2019. The negotiations on the third version of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area were launched in November 2022 and expected to finish next year. Dr. Vu Quy Son from the Institute of Chinese Studies told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that the talks between PM Chinh and his Chinese counterpart Li Qiang on Saturday showed the importance of maintaining and boosting high-ranking delegation exchanges between the two countries. China tends to enhance practical cooperation with Vietnam through its international cooperation initiatives to get the Southeast Asian countrys support in regional and international issues. It is focusing on the cooperation of ministries, agencies, and the localities bordering Vietnam with equivalent units in Vietnam, Son added. In the future, China may focus on trade collaboration to ease the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and upgrade infrastructure connectivity with Vietnam and ASEAN as a whole. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Boat service for tourists on the Nho Que River, a popular destination in Ha Giang Province, northern Vietnam, has been suspended since Saturday as a result of an unresolved disagreement concerning the temporary management plan for tourist transportation services on the river. Tu San Agricultural and Tourism Service Cooperative, the only tourist boat service provider on the Nho Que River, located in Meo Vac District, said that its passenger transportation contract with Nho Que 1 Hydropower JSC expired on September 15. As per the announcement made on the same day, both the parties and the Peoples Committee of Meo Vac District had not found a suitable resolution for extending the contract. Consequently, the cooperative made the decision to temporarily suspend the operation of tourist boats on the Nho Que River. A 30-minute boat ride on the river, whose tickets cost VND100,000 (US$4.12) per person, takes tourists to Tu San Canyon, through the same route to the Nho Que 1 Hydropower Plant, and return to the boat dock. Reputed to be Southeast Asias deepest canyon, Tu San Canyon boasts awe-inspiring features, including cliffs towering up to 800 meters, a length of 1.7 kilometers, and an astonishing depth of nearly one kilometer. This canyon is the result of a wondrous process that unfolded millions of years ago, back when this area was submerged beneath the vast ocean. Through geological transformations, as the earths crust shifted and waters receded, erosion gradually shaped this distinctive and enduring geological marvel. The canyon, along with the Nho Que River and Ma Pi Leng Mountain Pass, constitutes a trifecta of stunning natural landscapes in Meo Vac District, Ha Giang, making it an unmissable destination for tourists visiting the northern mountainous province. The temporary halt in tourist boat services on the Nho Que River implies that travelers visiting Ha Giang during this period will miss the chance to encounter the renowned canyon. However, there are alternative experiences available for visitors to select from, Giap Van Hai, a longtime professional tour designer and tour guide in Ha Giang, told the news site VnExpress. Hai suggests that tourists consider embarking on a trek along the White Cliffs trail, which provides a gorgeous panoramic view of the Nho Que River and Tu San Canyon. The trek covers a distance of five kilometers and typically takes between 2.5 and 3.5 hours, depending on the physical condition and preferences of the visitors. In addition, travelers can visit the section dubbed a mini Tu San on the same Nho Que River for activities like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or traditional boating. This area, known as Khau Vai Canyon, is situated in the northern part of Meo Vac District, along the border between Ha Giang and Cao Bang Provinces. Similar to the famous Tu San Canyon, Khau Vai Canyon, located at the base of Ma Pi Leng Mountain Pass, boasts striking cliffs on both sides and a picturesque turquoise river. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Screen Well has partnered with Matchbox Pictures on a new job-sharing pilot program, first of its kind in Australia. Screen Australia has provided funding from its Transferable Skills & Returning Crew Training Fund for the initiative, held in collaboration with job sharing advocate and consultant Racheal Rauch. The program aims to create a new pathway for screen workers to return to the industry, as well as create opportunities to up-skill emerging practitioners, and / or enhance the work-life balance of existing practitioners. The program will pair and place 6 10 job-share partners in 3 5 roles on an upcoming Matchbox Pictures production with Screen Well support. Job-sharing can improve accessibility and inclusivity in the industry, as well as sustainability, said Rauch. Screen workers regularly work more than 50 hours per week on average in Australia; job sharing will allow workers who are unable to sustain those hours to continue working within the industry to maintain a healthier work/life balance, says Ben Steel, founder of Screen Well. Job-shares can be beneficial for a range of practitioners such as carers and parents, those with illness and disabilities, as well as remote/regional practitioners. There is a wealth of industry research, reports and studies, domestically and internationally, which recommend job-sharing as a way to address a variety of problems, including the long hours; work/life balance; as well as crew attraction and retention. In the UK, they have built infrastructure to support job-sharing through organizations and schemes and we see this as an opportunity to address this need in Australia. Roles and Employment Dates: Accounts Assistant: Oct or early Nov 2023 Feb 2024 Art Department: Oct 2023 Feb 2024 Assistant Editor: Block 1 (Nov 2023 March 2024) + Block 2 (Jan 2024 April 2024) Camera Operator: Nov 2023 Feb 2024 Costume Department: Nov 2023 Feb 2024 Lighting Department: Nov 2023 Feb 2024 Grips Department: Nov 2023 Feb 2024 Production Secretary: 25th Sept 2023 Feb 2024 Unit Department: Nov 2023 Feb 2024 If your role isnt listed for this pilot program but youre interested in job sharing then please register your interest here. To Apply: Candidates interested in the pilot program can fill out an Expression of Interest as soon as possible. Last week MEAA also issued an open letter to Matchbox Pictures on behalf of Apples Never Fall crew. Season 4 of Every Family has a Secret presented by Noni Hazlehurst will screen on SBS in October. The documentary series again follows everyday Australians as they discover the astonishing truth about their familys past and confront the extraordinary secrets that have shaped their lives. From Nazi fraternization to a baby swap, bigamy, criminal activity, a lost inheritance, secret adoptions, moving family reunions and life changing epiphanies each episode unlocks a treasure trove of secrets that will keep audiences enraptured through every twist. Im so proud to be part of this wonderful series its without a doubt one of the highlights of my career. To have the privilege of hearing these deeply personal stories that our participants entrust to us is remarkable in itself. But the production team is world class, and their storytelling skills make for extraordinarily moving and rewarding television, said Hazlehurst. Bethan Arwel-Lewis, SBS Commissioning Editor, Factual, said: Helmed by the incomparable Noni Hazlehurst, Every Family Has a Secret exemplifies SBSs role as a national broadcaster to share impactful stories about diverse everyday Australians. Interweaving universal themes like family and identity, the series allows us to explore surprising and sometimes shocking stories that lie in our personal history, whilst solving mysteries that have impacted some families for years. Its no surprise that the series has become a homegrown success. Over four weeks, the series takes us on a truly global adventure spanning Austria, Mexico, Greece, France, Germany, Italy, the U.K, and The Netherlands. Season Four kicks off with an explosive premiere which will mark the first time in Every Family Has a Secret history that the series will deviate from its usual format featuring one rather than two intertwining stories due to the truly epic nature of what is revealed. The absorbing season four premiere will see siblings Jacquie Blatchford and Michael Damnjanovic travel to France, Italy and the U.K. on a mission to find answers about how their French born mother came to Australia after WWII. Along the way they uncover evidence of their mothers dark past, discovering a far-right political party membership, Nazi fraternization, hidden marriages, and that they are heirs to a sizable inheritance. Shocking revelations continue as two Melbourne women investigate baby swaps and baby stealing: Dr Sofia Rios Miranda seeks to find if there is any truth to a family rumour that her great grandparents stole a British baby and changed his identity to ensure he remained with them; and a DNA test dramatically turns the life of adoptee Dr Penny Mackieson upside down when it is revealed she has Greek heritage and has spent twenty years reunited with the wrong birth mother. Later in the series proud Koori woman Paula Morrison, who was raised as an orphan, discovers her Austrian born father is in fact still alive and later unearths the truth about Nazi allegiances in her familys history; retiree Rod Cordery and sister Sandra Rowlands journey to the U.K. where they discover the identity of their biological father and meet half-sisters they never knew they had; leading historian Professor Grace Karskens travels to the Netherlands and Germany to uncover the truth about a missing uncle; and Ming Balintong is granted his greatest wish when he finally learns the identity of his biological father. Every Family has a Secret is a four-part series produced by Artemis Media for SBS, in association with Screenwest and Lotterywest. Every Family Has a Secret S4 will be subtitled in 5 languages, streaming on SBS On Demand in Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean. Thursday 19 October at 7.30pm on SBS. Dr. Trisha Stratford, best known as an expert on Married at First Sight, has died, aged 72. John Aiken wrote on Instagram, Im heartbroken and devastated that my friend and dear colleague Trisha has passed away. We shared an amazing seven seasons of MAFS together. She loved everything New Zealand, relationships, the All Blacks, the Black Caps, French wine and traveling the world. Ill miss you, Tish. Thank you for all the memories. Stratford, a clinical neuropsychologist who specialised in the neuroscience of relationships, featured in seven seasons of the hit show, before announcing her departure in 2020 ,replaced by clinical sexologist Alessandra Rampolla. Stratford joined Married at First Sight when it launched in 2015, quickly becoming known for asking participants if they had been intimate yet and for her pheromones test. Prior to MAFS, she worked for 60 Minutes in both New Zealand and Australia and was a war correspondent in Somalia and Bosnia. She also produced and directed over 20 prime-time television documentaries about social justice issues, and published two books, including Blood Money: The incredible true story of David Morris and the tragedy of Somalia. In 2021 she said she told Womens Day NZ, the participants we got in seasons six and seven were so outrageous and outside the norm that it wasnt what I signed up for. A Nine spokesperson said, Our sincerest condolences and heartfelt sympathies go out to her family and those closest during this difficult time. Source: SMH What are the factors that can influence entry-level salaries in Singapore? (PHOTO: Getty) SINGAPORE After graduating from university, it's finally time to see what that paper qualification is worth in the job market. But do you know how much salary you should be expecting from your employers? How do you know if it is a fair amount? Entry-level salaries vary widely across industries. Some jobs, such as those related to the information and digital technologies sector, tend to pay higher salaries than others. There are also various factors that influence the starting pay of a graduate. We examine the latest statistics on full-time entry-level salaries in Singapore, as well as the factors that determine the starting pay of a graduate. Entry-level salaries by industry in Singapore Here are the latest statistics on median salaries for full-time permanent employment among graduates in 2022 based on the graduate employment survey jointly conducted by six local universities: National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore Management University (SMU), Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) and Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS). The survey was conducted between November 2022 and March 2023 among 18,565 full-time and 1,219 follow-up graduates (those who were surveyed after completing their respective one-year practical training) from NUS, NTU, SMU, SUTD, SIT and SUSS. Course cluster Gross monthly median salary 2020 2021 2022 Arts, Design & Media S$3,300 S$3,300 S$3,500 Built Environment S$3,500 S$3,600 S$3,800 Business S$3,500 S$3,600 S$4,000 Dentistry S$4,200 S$4,200 S$4,200 Education (NIE) S$3,800 S$3,798 S$4,200 Engineering S$3,8500 S$3,850 S$4,500 Health Sciences S$3,500 S$3,600 S$3,700 Humanities & Social Sciences S$3,500 S$3,571 S$3,800 Information & Digital Technologies S$4,500 S$5,000 S$5,500 Music S$3,275 S$3,100 S$3,590 Sciences S$3,500 S$3,600 S$3,900 Follow-up graduates *Data obtained after graduates have completed their one-year practical training. Architecture S$4,000 S$4,000 S$4,400 Biomedical Sciences and Chinese Medicine S$3,000 S$3,100 S$3,175 Law S$5,000 S$5,600 S$6,375 Medicine S$5,250 N.A N.A. Pharmacy S$3,700 S$3,915 S$4,000 Based on the table above, graduates from the Law course cluster were the highest paid, with a gross median salary of S$6,375 in 2022. This is followed by the Information & Digital Technologies course cluster with a gross monthly median salary of S$5,500. Story continues In contrast to the top two highest-paying course clusters, graduates from the Arts, Design & Media and the Biomedical Sciences & Chinese Medicine course clusters had the lowest gross monthly median salary of S$3,500 and S$3,175 respectively in 2022. Gross monthly median salary, as defined in the survey, comprises basic salary, overtime payments, commissions, fixed allowances and other regular cash payments before deductions of the employee's Central Provident Fund (CPF) contribution and personal income tax. It also excludes the employer's CPF contribution and any bonus paid. Factors influencing entry-level salaries in Singapore There are several factors that determine the starting pay of a fresh graduate. Chew Siew Mee, managing director of online employment platform JobStreet Singapore and Jaya Dass, managing director of permanent recruitment Asia Pacific at recruitment agency Randstad, spoke to Yahoo Finance Singapore and weighed in on these factors: 1. Industry variation As seen in the gross median salaries table above, different industries offer varying starting salaries. According to JobStreet's Chew, the level of competition for talent among firms differs from one industry to another. Sectors like finance and technology are examples of industries that generally pay more due to firms competing for skilled talent. 2. Specialised skills In general, roles that require basic skills can be commonly found and, thus, offer an average pay. On the other hand, roles that demand specialised skills generally pay higher. "For instance, in the technology industry, salaries are typically higher due to the added skill sets such as data engineering, coding, and software development," said Chew. 3. Company size and financial stability Established companies with a solid financial footing tend to offer higher salaries than smaller businesses or startups with limited capital. According to JobStreet's data, the salary difference can vary significantly, with larger companies offering up to 21 per cent more in compensation compared to their small-medium enterprise (SME) counterparts. 4. University's standing According to Randstad's Dass, candidates who graduated from top-ranking and well-known universities are "priced higher" by employers because such graduates are deemed to have gone through a more rigorous education. This includes participating in internships or work-related projects and not just having academic achievements. "The quality of the education is priced higher, and therefore, the export (graduate) is also priced higher and the perception of what this person is. It's harder for them to get in (to top universities), and they are the creme de la creme. Automatically, the starting salary might be higher for these grads," said Dass. 5. Overseas experience A graduate who has experienced living overseas or worked abroad during their university years may be in a better position to gain a higher starting pay. According to Dass, the thinking around such a person is that he or she would have a lot of other inter-personal skills that are admirable when compared to someone who had a local university experience. These include qualities such as independence, knowing how to think on their feet and having more maturity. "You (a local graduate) are seen as a bit more 'fresh' in your experience and capability compared to someone who has an overseas education," said Dass. 6. Work experience Students who gathered working experience while studying are usually favoured among the crop because they can easily assimilate into an organisation compared to someone who has to be "handheld" all the way, according to Dass. Dass said that students who work while studying in order to pay for their education "are always valued for their work experience, mindset, maturity, tenacity and resilience". "Whereas with book smarts, you are betting on potential. Their paperwork indicates that they operate at that level. Whether it translates or not, I don't know," said Dass. 7. Salary grading system Companies usually implement policies that cap how much starting salary they can pay. Known as a salary grading system the Hay method is a popular one such a system helps organisations adhere to headcount budgets, and ensure that a graduate's starting salary will not inadvertently exceed the pay of a more experienced worker within the company. A situation like that could create tension among employees. "When a candidate is interviewing... how they come across makes all the difference in the impression they create and money they command. But even if I want to pay this person more, if I'm bound by benchmarking standards in my organisation and I have to play to my budget internally, I am only going to hire someone who is willing to join at that number. Even if they can fetch a higher pay somewhere else, I'm not going to adjust it, not at the entry-level," said Dass. Is it necessary to know the entry-level salary for the job you applied for? Aside from personal passions and education costs, entry-level salaries can sometimes be a determining factor for individuals when deciding which course to pursue at the higher education stage. But just how important is it to be informed about starting salaries? JobStreet's Chew believes that it is crucial for graduates to be aware of entry-level salaries in their chosen occupation or industry. "Having a clear understanding of the typical salary range allows them to set realistic expectations and make informed decisions about job offers. This knowledge empowers graduates to negotiate their compensation effectively, ensuring they are fairly compensated for their skills and qualifications," said Chew. However, Chew also cautioned that it is equally important for graduates to consider factors beyond compensation when evaluating job opportunities. "This includes aspects such as growth opportunities, workplace flexibility, work-life balance and a workplace culture that aligns with personal values," said Chew. Randstad's Dass felt that starting pay should not be a graduate candidate's highest priority or focus when it comes to deciding on a suitable role. Instead, candidates should consider how well they can fit into a role and organisation, and how they can grow their career in the company. "How they grow in the job and the organisation is far more critical than why they entered the organisation to start with," Dass explained. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. Axi Financial Services (UK) Limited Axi Select Axi Select Campaign Greg Rubin, Head of Axi Select Greg Rubin, Head of Axi Select With Axi Select access funds of up to $1,000,000 With Axi Select access funds of up to $1,000,000 PR-header-image [We see the Trader in You !] SYDNEY, Australia, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Axi a leading global Forex and CFD broker has announced the launch of Axi Select, a groundbreaking capital allocation programme. The programme is specifically crafted to empower traders by offering them a pathway to access capital funding up to $1,000,000 USD and facilitating their progression into professional trading. Setting a new precedent within the industry, Axi Select offers traders the exceptional advantage to join the program with zero registration fees, as well as the opportunity to earn up to 90% of their profits. Greg Rubin, Head of Axi Select, says: Through the introduction of Axi Select, our innovative capital allocation programme, we aim to provide an opportunity for traders to forge long and successful careers, empowering them to realize their lifelong aspirations of becoming professional traders. Our comprehensive programme provides the capital, support, and resources necessary for traders to thrive in the dynamic world of trading. We are committed to fuelling their passion, driving their success, and providing unwavering support as they navigate towards achieving their goals. The programme offers a range of notable features, including unrestricted trading conditions, the Edge score which allows traders to fine-tune their strategies and enhance their trading performance, and an exclusive trading room which serves as a dedicated hub, offering real-time market updates and curated educational content. [LEARN MORE AND JOIN AXI SELECT] The Axi Select programme is only available to clients of AxiTrader Limited. CFDs carry a high risk of investment loss. This content is not available for AU, NZ, and UK clients. For more information, refer to our Terms of Service. Other Fees may apply. Story continues Click here to watch the Axi Select fireside chat Talking about Axi Select, Louis Cooper, Chief Commercial Officer at Axi, says At Axi, we take pride in being a brand that consistently brings the edge to life for our customers. Our revolutionary new offering, Axi Select, is the first-of-its-kind among brokers and another true reflection of our brand promise. We have previously allocated $39M to traders in previous programmes and enabled several traders break out into pro trading status. With Axi Select, we will deliver unparalleled opportunities to our traders whilst both redefining the boundaries of whats possible in trading and reshaping the evolution of the financial industry. Axi offers a streamlined process to participate in Axi Select with no signup or membership fees, traders can effortlessly submit their application and start trading. Upon achieving a designated Edge Score, traders can start to secure capital funding of up to $1,000,000 USD. [LEARN MORE AND JOIN AXI SELECT] The Axi Select programme is only available to clients of AxiTrader Limited. CFDs carry a high risk of investment loss. This content is not available for AU, NZ, and UK clients. For more information, refer to our Terms of Service. Other Fees may apply. Click here to watch the Axi Select fireside chat About Axi Axi is a global online FX and CFD trading company, trusted by thousands of ambitious customers in 100+ countries around the world. We help all types of traders, trading businesses, banks and financial organizations find the edge they need to achieve their financial goals through informed transactions made on the world's financial markets. Axi offers a wide range of assets including CFDs for several asset classes including Forex, Shares, Gold, Silver, Oil, Coffee, Indices, and other commodities. At Axi, we are proud of our reputation as an honest, fair, and trusted broker. Our many awards and 'Great' Trustpilot reviews prove we have earned the confidence of customers who value our outstanding service, fast execution, secure payments, segregated funds, and easy withdrawals. For further enquiries contact service@axi.com Check out other Axi communication at https://www.axi.com/int/blog/company-news Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d50c2d41-8931-47bd-9b0f-6a5572fb88e4 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/987d1f0e-63e9-4234-aaaf-6c041d74d3ba https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9a391ff3-5046-485a-916e-cca5bbb247b2 PDF accompanying this announcement is available at: http://ml-eu.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/1cfa04fb-a4cb-4b4d-b0dc-5b14a9f0aa0f It is 20 years now since dramatic scenes erupted in Sheffield Crown Court at the end of a trial over a notorious murder (Photo: National World) It is 20 years ago this year that a 'ring of steel' encircled Sheffield Crown Court as two men were tried following the execution of Lester Divers. And the security got even tighter when those found guilty were sentenced. Armed police surrounded Sheffield Crown Court as Michael Ullah, then 47, and Kevin Smith, 42, were sent down for their involvement in the 'well planned and cold blooded' killing. Lester Divers were executed in a quiet street in Walkley, Sheffield (Photo: National World) Ullah had already admitted murder, and Smith was found guilty of driving the getaway car used by the gunman who fired at his victim with a sawn-off shotgun. But Craig Allen, 39, who was accused of organising the killing, was found not guilty - and there were dramatic scenes as jurors returned their verdicts in July 2003. Spectators in the full public gallery jumped to their feet and began shouting abuse at Smith and Allen. Police officers guarding the courtroom and trying to block off the main door had to grapple with intruders who attempted to get down the stairs and into the chamber. Michael Ullah was jailed over the murder of Lester Divers in Sheffield (Photo: SYP) One man was prevented from getting any further after managing to open the courtroom doors - and proceedings were suspended for 10 minutes while order was restored. Ullah and Smith were eventually sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum term later set down by the Lord Chief Justice of 16 years for Ullah. Lester Divers, a music promoter and charismatic character well known around Sheffield, was shot in the head on New Year's Day, 2003, in a gangland style execution. He had just left his girlfriend's home on Freedom Road in Walkley when he was assassinated as he sat in his Lexus car. Neighbours were alerted by the blaring of his car horn as he slumped forwards in the driver's seat. The 32-year-old was originally from the Burngreave and Pitsmoor areas of Sheffield, and was a popular and well known music promoter and Blades fan. But Sheffield Crown Court heard there was a sinister side to Mr Divers' life. It was said he was part of a gang responsible for a series of sickening crimes against other dealers of hard drugs, and his murder was the consequence of a turf war between rival drugs gangs. Story continues Ullah, it was said, opened fire because he feared his own life was in danger. His barrister told the court that three men - among them Divers - had tried to kidnap, torture and kill Ullah to get information about a rival Sheffield drugs dealer he was working for. And what of Craig Allen, the accused who was acquitted? He is in jail today too - convicted nine years later, by then aged 50, of running an international drug dealing ring from a mansion in Thailand that he shared with his Thai wife and child. Dubbed the 'ginger ninja' and 'little fella', he was sentenced to 20 years in prison in 2014 after being arrested outside Ikea in Amsterdam. Armed police found three kilos of cocaine, a kilo of heroin, nearly half a million Euros and a cash counting machine in his Dutch flat. Allen was caught after South Yorkshire Police linked five Class A drugs operations to him through evidence found on mobile phones. They discovered that, in each case, Allen was at the helm, directing the delivery of drugs and the exchange of cash in the UK from his pile in Thailand. KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- LONGi, the world's leading solar technology company, made a significant presence at the Energy Transition Conference 2023 in Malaysia. During the event, LONGi unveiled its latest Hi-MO 7 modules and showcased its comprehensive product solution portfolio tailored to meet diverse customer applications within the Malaysian market. The Hi-MO 7 modules are the result of LONGi's innovative practice based on high-efficiency HPDC cell technology, representing a significant advancement from HPC cell technology. These upgraded HPDC cells deliver enhanced conversion efficiency, power temperature coefficient, and higher reliability, resulting in substantial improvements in power generation. Furthermore, LONGi's industry-leading product lifecycle standards provide a profound level of reliability assurance, ensuring exceptional product quality for Hi-MO 7 and surpassing customer expectations by delivering robust value and impressive returns. During the Conference, LONGi joined forces with Solarvest to unveil this new Hi-MO 7 module. Mr. Yanpu Guo, Director of the South Pacific at LONGi, underscored the company's commitment to understanding and meeting the energy transition needs of the Malaysian market. LONGi showcased its advanced technology and ongoing innovation, demonstrating its active participation in Malaysia's economic and technological advancement. They prominently featured the Hi-MO 7 module and LONGi's comprehensive product portfolio, presenting case studies of solar power plants and commercial projects. The launch generated considerable interest among partners, with Mr. Jack Tan, Vice President of Marketing at Solarvest, praising LONGi's leadership in technological innovation and sustainable development. Both companies affirmed their shared commitment to developing efficient clean energy systems for widespread adoption. In a region where traditional energy sources still dominate, the introduction of LONGi's Hi-MO 7 modules offers a cost-effective solution for clean energy generation. Leveraging Malaysia's abundant solar resources, LONGi aims to bolster the country's energy transition efforts and contribute significantly to a greener, more sustainable future. Story continues About LONGi Founded in 2000, LONGi is committed to being the world's leading solar technology company, focusing on customer-driven value creation for full scenario energy transformation. Under its mission of 'making the best of solar energy to build a green world', LONGi has dedicated itself to technology innovation and established five business sectors, covering mono silicon wafers cells and modules, commercial & industrial distributed solar solutions, green energy solutions and hydrogen equipment. The company has honed its capabilities to provide green energy and has more recently, also embraced green hydrogen products and solutions to support global zero carbon development. www.longi.com/en Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/longi-unveils-hi-mo-7-modules-in-malaysia-paving-the-way-for-energy-transition-301929875.html SOURCE LONGi Shares in crisis-hit China Evergrande have plunged by up to a quarter after the apparent detention of staff by police. The company, which is the world's most indebted property developer, has been at the centre of a financial crunch covering the wider real estate sector in China since 2021. Trading in the loss-making company's stock was suspended for 17 months - until late August - amid a string of defaults and the creation of a restructuring plan that is yet to be agreed with its creditors. Shares opened 25% lower in Hong Kong on Monday following the release of a statement by police in the southern city of Shenzhen over the weekend that revealed apparent action against a senior figure within Evergrande's wealth management arm, Du Liang, and others. It read: "Recently, public security organs took criminal compulsory measures against Du and other suspected criminals at Evergrande Financial Wealth Management Co." There was no further information on whether Du, or further people, had been detained - but it was widely believed that a number of individuals were likely to be in custody. While the company's embattled share price later recovered some poise towards the close, the initial reaction reawakened concerns about the state of the company and China's wider property sector. Evergrande's liabilities were shown, in May, to total $127bn (103bn). On Friday, China's national financial regulator announced it had approved the takeover of the group's life insurance arm by a new state-owned entity. Dozens of companies have suffered on the back of writedowns on properties, return of land, losses on financial assets and steep financing costs. They have resulted in swathes of half-finished apartment buildings and buyer difficulties. The woes have had a stinging impact on the wider Chinese economy and contributed to bolstered economic stimulus by authorities who have been grappling with a wider collapse in consumer demand. Story continues Read more: Has China's economy run out of steam? Susannah Streeter, head of money and markets at Hargreaves Lansdown, said: "The detention of Evergrande employees, working in wealth management, has prompted a big slide in the real estate giant's share price amid nervousness that fresh fragilities will be uncovered. "Authorities are swooping deeper into the internal workings of the company, as worries swirl about the sector's woes potentially causing pools of financial instability elsewhere requiring fresh patch-ups, which could further drag down economic growth. "Attempts to stem the slowdown in China through stimulus measures do appear to be bearing some fruit with Friday's data on industrial production and retail sales rising more than expected and there are expectations more help could be on the way." UNITED NATIONS (AP) For two years, it was the coronavirus pandemic. Then, it was Russia's war in Ukraine. Throughout it all, the perils of climate change, poverty and inequality have steadily, increasingly thrummed through each convening of world leaders at the U.N. General Assembly. As the 78th session opens, there's no single clear crisis set to dominate the General Debate, as none of the aforementioned ones have been resolved. The high-level meeting will be set against the backdrop of an ongoing war, new political crises in West Africa and Latin America, a lingering coronavirus, economic instability, widening inequality and fresh natural disasters in the forms of devastating earthquakes,floods and fires. In the face of this tumult, the theme for this year's General Debate will be Rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity: Accelerating action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals towards peace, prosperity, progress and sustainability for all. We've updated last year's backgrounder for the 2023 high-level meeting. Here's what to know about this year's U.N. General Assembly, presided over by Trinidad and Tobago's Dennis Francis. WHAT IS THE POINT OF THE UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY? While the effectiveness of the United Nations has been questioned for as long as it has existed, the benefits of attendance are undeniable. From the dais, countries broadcast their agendas, grievances and calls to action to the entire world and for the permanent record. The exercise in multilateralism was born in the wake of World War II, and grounded in the hope for lasting peace. This week is a key chance for countries often drowned out by what they decry as a hegemonic world order to grab the attention of a larger audience. Its also a chance for leaders to engage in meetings on the sidelines in neutral territory. WHO IS COMING TO NEW YORK THIS YEAR? Heads of state and government from at least 145 countries are expected to take the dais at the river's edge. Among them will be Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, U.S. President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy all expected in the first day. This will be Zelenskyy's first in-person appearance at the United Nations since the Russian invasion of his country in 2022, the General Assembly voted to grant him special dispensation to submit a prerecorded speech. Story continues But the parade of speakers will be marked by some key absences: While they're all sending representatives, the leaders of the rest of the permanent U.N. Security Council members France, the United Kingdom, China and Russia will not make the trip. The presence of Vladimir Putin would certainly have been surprising, but Emmanuel Macron is a regular attendee and this would have been British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's first opportunity to address the General Assembly. Macron cited King Charles III's imminent visit; Sunak, a busy schedule. Top leaders from other major countries, including India who just played host to the G20 summit in New Delhi this month and Mexico, are also slated to send ministers in their steads. WHAT DOES THE GENERAL DEBATE LOOK LIKE? We might be in the midst of U.S. presidential primary debate season, but the structure of the General Debate at the United Nations bears little resemblance. It doesn't lend itself to obvious fireworks booing or interruptions or immediate rebuttals are not permitted but that doesnt mean intrigue and drama are absent. Each speech alone offers a rich text and the delivery adds subtext. Speeches can be fonts of evocative language, barbs and gauzily veiled messages. They're supposed to run for 15 minutes, but many miss that mark. Last year, speeches averaged around 19 minutes, drawing a wry chiding from Slovakian President Zuzana Caputova clocking in under 12 minutes, her speech ended with: And since obeying even the smallest of rules matters, let me finish here to respect the agreed time limit. The longest speech in history ran to 269 minutes, and was delivered by Cuba's Fidel Castro in 1960. Member states are also allowed to exercise the right of reply, in which they can rebut criticism voiced during the General Debate. These are often fiery exchanges at day's end, but arent typically delivered by heads of state or heads of government rather, lower-level members of a country's delegation. Last year, there were 21 exercises of the right of reply. HOW LONG DOES THIS YEAR'S GENERAL DEBATE RUN? It's still six days, as usual, but this year's General Debate ends a day later Tuesday, Sept. 26. While past General Debates usually ran from Tuesday through Monday, with a break only on Sunday, this year there's a two-day break. A U.N. spokesperson confirmed that there will be no speeches on the usually final Monday in observance of the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur. WHY DOES BRAZIL SPEAK FIRST AT THE UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY? It's tradition. Early on, Brazil ventured forward when no other country would volunteer to speak first. Decades later, the South American country retains the pole position. As the host country, the United States typically speaks second (though last year, President Joe Biden had to delay his speech by a day because he was attending Queen Elizabeth II's funeral ). For the scores of speeches that follow, the order is determined by multiple variables, including whom a country is sending to deliver the speech (heads of state precede heads of government, who precede mere ministers and other representatives), countries' own preferences and geographic balance. ARE NON-UN MEMBERS ALLOWED TO ATTEND? Some. While all member states are invited to speak, not all necessarily make avail of the opportunity. But the United Nations also has permanent observers, which have access to most meetings and relevant documentation, per the U.N. website. The European Union,Palestine and the Holy See (the Vatican) are permanent observers again on the docket this year. Last year, Palestine had the longest speech, with President Mahmoud Abbas clocking in at more than 47 minutes. HOW DO I KEEP ABREAST OF WHAT'S HAPPENING AT THE UN? You're in the right place. The Associated Press, which reports on the United Nations year-round, will have extensive coverage through the end of the General Debate. Visit https://apnews.com/hub/united-nations-general-assembly for all our stories. While the General Assembly is not open to the public, the United Nations streams proceedings. ___ Follow Mallika Sen at http://twitter.com/mallikavsen Labour will look to build a closer trading relationship with the EU if it wins the next election, Sir Keir Starmer has said. The Labour leader spent the weekend meeting fellow centre-left leaders in Montreal, Canada, including the country's prime minister Justin Trudeau. The party has long been critical of the deal negotiated by the Conservatives under Boris Johnson, with the Trade and Cooperation Agreement up for review in 2025. Speaking to The Financial Times, Sir Keir said: "Almost everyone recognises the deal Johnson struck is not a good deal - it's far too thin. Analysis: Labour need to make Sir Keir Starmer look like a prime minister "As we go into 2025 we will attempt to get a much better deal for the UK." Rishi Sunak's spokesman said the government was not planning to "relitigate the past or reopen it in any way, shape or form," adding: "Obviously there is a set statutory review period but beyond that we're very much focused on maximising the opportunities it presents for the public." Labour has ruled out rejoining the customs union or single market, but Sir Keir said he was confident a better deal could be secured from Brussels. "I do think we can have a closer trading relationship as well. That's subject to further discussion." "We have to make it work. That's not a question of going back in. But I refuse to accept that we can't make it work. I think about those future generations when I say that. "I say that as a dad. I've got a 15-year-old boy and a 12-year-old girl. I'm not going to let them grow up in a world where all I've got to say to them about their future is, it's going to be worse than it might otherwise have been. "I've got an utter determination to make this work." Read more: Politics latest as Starmer questioned by Trevor Phillips Labour leader fails to rule out tax burden rise Sky News's Sam Coates said: "What's interesting about this is that Keir Starmer is on the front foot about something that has been a difficult issue for Labour Story continues "Until now the Labour leader has been quite cautious about a closer relationship with Europe for fear of alienating those who voted for Brexit in 2016 and then Tory rather than Labour in 2019." Meanwhile, Labour is also facing renewed pressure from its main union backer Unite, which is reportedly set to launch a grassroots campaign to call for more radical policies on energy and steel. Click to subscribe to the Sky News Daily wherever you get your podcasts Unite general secretary Sharon Graham has called for public ownership of energy and has been critical of Sir Keir in the past. She told The Guardian the union would be targeting so-called "red wall" areas as part of a bid to put pressure on the Labour leadership. The former MEPs Diane Dodds and Naomi Long in the senate chamber in Parliament Buildings, Stormont for a visit of the European Parliament's Committee on Foreign Affairs on Monday September 18 2023 (Photo: DUP) Diane Dodds, who is currently an MLA for Upper Bann and was formerly one of Northern Irelands three MEPs between 2009 and 2020, briefed members of the European Parliaments Foreign Affairs Committee in Stormont yesterday. Speaking in Parliament Buildings, Mrs Dodds urged the visiting delegation to take serious thought of the unionist viewpoint. Mrs Dodds said: MEPs speak often about protecting the Belfast Agreement yet political progress in Northern Ireland is built on the support of unionists and nationalists. Not one unionist MLA supported the protocol. The idea that one section of our people will dominate the other and ignore the concerns of unionists will never produce durable or balanced outcomes. Mrs Dodds also said: There is no solid basis for an executive and assembly until we have arrangements that restore Northern Irelands place in the UK internal market and our constitutional arrangements are respected. We all want to see devolution restored and we are continuing to engage in discussions with the UK government to try to bring about the fair and sustainable conditions that are necessary to get the assembly and executive functioning. However, this can only happen when Northern Irelands position within the United Kingdom is both respected and protected in law. The Sinn Fein MLA Declan Kearney met with members of the MEP delegation including the Chair of the Committee on Foreign Affairs David McAllister and Chair of the Delegation to the EU-UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly Nathalie Loiseau. SFs Brexit spokesperson said: I was delighted to meet with a delegation of the European Parliaments Foreign Affairs Committee today. I commended the committee on its consistent engagement with political and civic leaders in the north, and addressed the huge importance of the Peace Plus official announcement just last week. He added: The committee is currently working on a report on the implementation of the Windsor Framework. I strongly welcome that members of the committee restated their support for the Windsor Framework and the restoration of our political institutions. KYIV (Reuters) -Ukraine plans to sue Poland, Hungary and Slovakia in the World Trade Organization over bans on Ukrainian agricultural products, Ukrainian officials said on Monday. The appeal could be sent "in the near future", a senior official said, and followed a decision by the three countries bordering Ukraine to ban imports of the country's key export commodities. Politico had earlier on Monday quoted Ukrainian Trade Representative Taras Kachka as saying in an interview that Kyiv planned to sue the three countries. Restrictions imposed by the European Union in May allowed Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia to ban domestic sales of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed and sunflower seeds, while permitting transit of such cargoes for export elsewhere. Poland, Slovakia and Hungary announced their own restrictions on Ukrainian grain imports on Friday after the executive European Commission decided not to extend its ban on imports into Ukraine's five EU neighbours. Warsaw, Bratislava and Budapest say they are acting in the interests of their economies and their farmers. Kachka told Politico that Ukraine could also impose reciprocal measures on the import of fruit and vegetables from Poland if Warsaw did not drop its additional measures. Polish Agriculture Minister Robert Telus said Warsaw's ban covers four cereals, but it was also extended to include meals from these cereals: corn, wheat, rapeseed. PAP news agency quoted Radoslaw Fogiel, the head of Poland's parliamentary foreign affairs commission, as saying Ukraine's decision to sue would "reverberate badly in Poland" and that Ukraine should be aware of this. "Our decision is not aimed at Ukraine, it is dictated by the protection of the Polish farmer and the protection of Poland's interests," he said. The EU allowed its ban to expire on Friday after Ukraine said it would take measures to tighten control of exports to neighbouring countries. Story continues Kachka said Kyiv was ready to "take on the responsibility to ensure that export from Ukraine is not creating any tsunami in neighbouring countries" and would impose a system of "real time" export licenses for grains. Farm ministry data showed 1.4 million tons of Ukrainian farm goods left the country by train in the first three months of the 2023/24 July-June season out of a total export volume of 4.5 million tons. Ukraine ships grain by train via crossings with Poland, Slovakia and Hungary. Ukraine also shipped by rail an additional 1 million tons of oils and oilseeds. (Reporting by Tom Balmforth and Pavel Polityuk, additional reporting by Anna Wlodarczuk-Semczuk, writing by Anna Pruchnicka, Editing by Timothy Heritage) Some German cities are offering drivers free public transport. But theres a catch. Would you give up driving if it meant free public transport? Several cities and districts in Germany are offering drivers unlimited travel on all local and regional public transport. The catch? You have to surrender your driving licence. The program is a bid to combat traffic congestion and promote environmentally friendly transport. Participants can gain a free Deutschlandticket, usually priced at 49 per month. The details of the exchange offer vary depending on your location. Heres whos eligible. What is the Deutschlandticket? The Deutschlandticket launched in Germany in April this year. The pass - which offers unlimited travel on all local and regional public transport for 49 - was hailed by authorities as the biggest public transport reform in German history. More than three million Germans have purchased the ticket since its launch. France is set to introduce an equivalent pass in coming months. The 49 German ticket was a successor to the 9-per-month ticket trialled last summer. This ultra-cheap pass saved around 1.8 million tonnes of carbon emissions during June, July, and August last year. The driving licence exchange program is a bid to further reduce the environmental impact of transport. Which countries offer the best public transport? Public transport is much better for the planet than using a carbon intensive car. Germany is a world-leader on public transport infrastructure. In May, a Greenpeace report revealed the state of public transport across 30 European countries. Luxembourg, Malta, Austria, Germany, Cyprus and Spain came out on top with high scores for easy-to-use tickets and discounts. Luxembourg became the first country in the world to scrap fares on all public transport in 2020. Where is the German exchange program available? Exchange programs are run by local authorities, so they are only available in some regions of Germany. Story continues Dortmund, North Rhine-Westphalia In Dortmund, people who give up driving will be offered a two month Deutschlandticket. The city described the program as a small thank you to those who decide to ditch carbon-intensive driving. Drivers should hand in their licence to the City of Dortmund Citizen Services, where they will receive a certificate to pick up a monthly ticket. Leverkusen, North Rhine-Westphalia In some cities, the exchange program is only available to older citizens. Authorities in Leverkusen have offered people over 75 the opportunity to get a free one-year subscription to the Deutschlandticket if they give up driving. A train at Lubeck's main station. Lubeck is one of the regions which has offered a swap model. - canva Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Nearby Bonn also places an age limit on the exchange program. People over 60 can get a free Deutschlandticket or 'Aktiv60' ticket for six months. You have to fill out a 'Driver Licence Waiver' form, available at city offices. Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis, North Rhine-Westphalia In Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis, the exchange program was inundated with interest. Some 130 people applied for a year of free travel with the Deutschlandticket, from which the district selected 20 people at random in April. Its a permanent switch - but many residents were eager to take up the offer, said Michael Schafer of the Road Traffic Department. "It was difficult for us to estimate demand in advance," he told the Local. "We are surprised at how many citizens from the district are interested in the offer." Lubeck, Schleswig-Holstein If you give up your driving licence in Lubeck, Schleswig-Holstein, you can travel free of charge for a year with the Deutschlandticket. However, its a permanent switch - youll never get it back. In 2023, a maximum of 1,000 Deutschlandtickets will be issued, and 500 in each of the following two years. Image source: Getty Images At the end of August, the Kodal Minerals (LSE: KOD) share price began to rise. And in so doing, it ended a declining trend that started in April, taking the stock down by around 50% to its nadir ouch! At 0.58p, the shares are now up by about 32% from the bottom at least for the time being. The company has a small market capitalisation of around 98m. And there are lots of zeros in the financial record where revenue, profits and cash flow should be. However, there is no debt and even a small net cash position on the balance sheet. A business with a buzz This is no cash-cow. However, theres a buzz around the business in the investing community because of the firms involvement with lithium. The soft, silvery metal is an investing theme of the day. Most all-electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids run on lithium-ion batteries. And lithium also goes into rechargeable batteries for mobile phones, laptops, power tools and other applications. It seems likely the market for lithium will be huge in the coming years. So any company producing the stuff may do well. And Kodal Minerals operates as a mining and exploration business focused on lithium and gold assets in West Africa. However, the company is short of cash for developing its assets. But in January, the directors announced a conditional funding package worth $117.75m. China-based Hainan Mining Co agreed to use the money to finance Kodal Minerals Bougouni Lithium Project in Mali. And the funds will likely be enough to develop the assets to production, and support a major exploration and development programme. The Hainan Group employs highly experienced mining and development professionals and will work in partnership with Kodal on the Bougouni Lithium Project. Kodal will bring to the table the Mali and project expertise. Funding delays When that news broke at the start of the year, the share price soared. And in February, Kodal announced the receipt of a deposit of $7m relating to the funding package. Story continues Then, in April, the company announced it had completed some exploratory drilling on the project pending receipt of the full funding from Hainan. Meanwhile, the share price topped out near 0.88p that month. But four extensions have moved the completion date for the funding package from the original 30 April to 30 September. And the slippage took its toll on the share price causing the downtrend mentioned earlier investors hate uncertainty. However, along the way in August, Kodal did receive a good-faith prepayment of $3.5m from Hainan. The two companies continue to engage. But the full funding announcement is yet to be made. If it is, the stock will likely rocket. If it isnt, the shares will likely tumble further. My personal preference is to invest in mining companies when infrastructure is almost complete and just prior to the commencement of production. Meanwhile, Kodal has yet to begin building its infrastructure and a lot may happen before the business lifts any lithium from the ground in commercial quantities. Id describe this situation as high risk and potentially high reward. In other words, its highly speculative. The post Is the Kodal Minerals share price about to rocket? appeared first on The Motley Fool UK. More reading Kevin Godbold has no position in any of the shares mentioned. The Motley Fool UK has no position in any of the shares mentioned. Views expressed on the companies mentioned in this article are those of the writer and therefore may differ from the official recommendations we make in our subscription services such as Share Advisor, Hidden Winners and Pro. Here at The Motley Fool we believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. Motley Fool UK 2023 Nichola Corner, the sister of murdered journalist Lyra McKee The sister of murdered Northern Ireland journalist Lyra McKee has said that the extremism that destroyed her family is growing in the political vacuum left by a lack of devolved government. Nichola McKee Corner was speaking following the announcement that the One Young World summit has named its Journalist of the Year Award 2023, the Lyra McKee Award for Bravery, in honour of her sisters life and work. Lyra McKee was 29 years old when she was fatally shot during rioting in the Creggan area of Derry in April 2019. At the time of her death, the devolved government at Stormont was not functioning after it collapsed in 2017 in the fallout of an energy scheme scandal, and Sinn Fein subsequently declined to go back into the executive to secure an Irish language act. Ms McKee Corner said politicians did not uphold promises for change they made in the wake of Ms McKees death. We were in a political deadlock when Lyra was killed. Lyras funeral was one of the first times in a number of years that all of the political leaders were together in one building, she said. Lyra McKee (PA Media) And they had been making promises at that time that they would do what was necessary to get our political institutions back up and running. That was in April, by August, nothing had changed. The devolved institutions are not currently functioning due to the DUPs boycott of government in a protest against post-Brexit trading arrangements. At the beginning of September, 16 police officers were injured during unrest in the Creggan area of Derry that involved children as young as eight. Searches carried out following the unrest revealed guns and quantities of ammunition. Ms McKee Corner said more needs to be done about growing extremism. If you dont have a stable government, there is a tendency towards anarchy as well, which is what we saw in 2019, which is what weve seen intermittently throughout that time, and particularly in the last number of weeks. She added: We keep taking steps forward, steps back. Seeing the violence, I despair, I just think has anybody learned anything? Story continues Its destroyed my family, killed my sister and my mum. I dont want to see anybody have to go through that. Four years on from Ms McKees death the One Young World summit has named its Journalist of the Year Award 2023, the Lyra McKee Award for Bravery. The annual One Young World Summit convenes young leaders from 190 countries and 250 organisations, working to accelerate social impact. This years One Young World Summit is taking place in October in Belfast and has been recognised by the City of Belfast and the UK Government as being part of the official celebrations for the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Good Friday Agreement. The Lyra McKee Award for Bravery is designed to recognise five outstanding journalists under the age of 35, from across the world. Ms McKee Corner said Ms McKee would be blown away to have the award in her name. She would be emotional, and she would be so proud. One Young World managing director, Ella Robertson McKay said naming the Journalist of the Year award after Ms McKee was a fitting tribute. Lyra was a talented and brave journalist who reported the truth without fear or favour and was a relentless advocate for the LGBTQ+ community before she was so tragically killed in 2019 on the 21st anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, she said. As the One Young World Summit in Belfast marks the 25th anniversary of the Agreement, we felt naming the Journalist of the Year award in Lyras honour would be a fitting tribute to such a remarkable young woman. Highly respected by her peers, Lyras writing was so full of love and hope for the future, famously penning a letter to her 14-year-old self in which she describes journalism as her calling. In that same letter she declared; It wont always be like this. Its going to get better and signed it off by saying Keep hanging on, kid. Its worth it. I love you. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff will be absent from this weekends Japanese Grand Prix as he undergoes knee surgery. The 51-year-old is set to have an operation in his native Austria to restore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left leg. Wolff damaged his knee a number of years ago and blamed it for a cycling accident during Formula Ones summer break which left him with a fractured elbow. Former F1 driver Jerome DAmbrosio will deputise for Toto Wolff in Japan Wolffs role will be divided between a number of the teams staff including driver development director Jerome DAmbrosio, the Belgian who took part in 20 F1 races in 2010 and 2011, and Mercedes long-serving British chief communications officer Bradley Lord often seen shadowing Wolff at the back of the garage. It is understood Wolff will be on the teams intercom across the weekend. Mercedes will head to Suzuka perhaps fearing that their best shot at victory this year may have escaped them following Carlos Sainzs triumph at the Singapore Grand Prix. Ferraris Sainz became the first non-Red Bull driver to win this season ending the world champions unbeaten streak and Max Verstappens record run of 10 consecutive victories. Lewis Hamilton finished third, just 1.2 seconds behind Sainz, after George Russell who at one point looked likely to win following Mercedes roll of the strategy dice crashed out on the final lap. We'd be lying if we said we weren't dreaming of more in those final laps but what a Grand Prix. pic.twitter.com/lQJouTNlDm Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) September 17, 2023 Verstappen qualified 11th and finished fifth, 21 seconds adrift of Sainz. But Hamilton fears Red Bulls lack of speed on the streets of Singapore is because they have already turned their attention to next season. While Verstappen can now not be crowned champion of the world for a third time in Japan, it is possible he could clinch the title in Qatar on October 8 with five rounds still left. Story continues And asked if Red Bulls blip provided him with hope Verstappens dominance could be coming to an end, Hamilton, 38, said: If you think about it, they probably havent been developing their car. McLaren brought an upgrade here. Other teams are still bringing upgrades, and theyre working on next years car. They would have definitely migrated to 2024 before us. Already looking ahead to Suzuka pic.twitter.com/s2YX47MK0V Oracle Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) September 17, 2023 So it is just one of those things. They are so far ahead that maybe theyre not developing their car, while we are still pushing to develop our current one. Verstappen, who warned in the build-up to Sundays city-state race that the high-downforce street track would not suit Red Bull, said he expects to be back on top in Suzuka. Wolff, who is likely to return for the Qatar GP, added: They will be strong again. The track in Singapore was an outlier for us when we were dominant and I have no doubt they will be strong on conventional race tracks. Officials warned Monday that a disease outbreak in Libya's northeast, where floods have killed thousands, could create a second devastating crisis as adults and children fell ill from contaminated water. In a statement, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya said it was particularly concerned about water contamination and the lack of sanitation after two dams collapsed during Mediterranean storm Daniel, sending a wall of water gushing through the eastern city of Derna on Sept. 11. The death toll has varied, with government officials and aid agencies giving tallies ranging from about 4,000 to 11,000 dead. Nine UN agencies responding to the disaster are working to prevent diseases from taking hold and creating another crisis in the devasted country, which is receiving 28 tons (25 metric tonnes) of medical supplies from the World Health Organization, the mission said. Haider al-Saeih, head of Libyas Center for Combating Diseases, said in televised comments Saturday that at least 150 people 55 of them children suffered diarrhoea after drinking contaminated water in Derna. Unity in the face of disaster The disaster has brought some rare unity to oil-rich Libya, which has been divided between rival administrations since 2014. Both are backed by international patrons and armed militias whose influence in the country has ballooned since a NATO-backed Arab Spring uprising toppled autocratic ruler Moammar Gadhafi in 2011. The opposing governments have both deployed humanitarian teams to the port city and other affected areas, but poor coordination, difficulty getting aid to the hardest-hit areas and the destruction of Dernas infrastructure, including several bridges, have hampered their efforts. On Monday, protesters gathered outside the al-Shabana mosque in central Derna, in a show of anger against authorities. Hundreds of Libyan men gathered outside, and atop, the mosque before a man read a list of demands at the building's entrance. The man called on authorities to expedite their investigation into the disaster, for the UN to set up an office in Derna, for urgent reconstruction of the city and for compensation for those affected by the flood. After he finished, the hundreds gathered began chanting: "Libya, Libya, Libya." Story continues On Saturday, Libyas general prosecutor, al-Sediq al-Sour, opened an investigation into the collapse of the two dams, built in the 1970s, as well as the allocation of maintenance funds. Dernas mayor, Abdel-Moneim al-Gaithi, was suspended pending an investigation into the disaster. Later Monday evening, the former mayor said his home was set on fire by protesters. He told the AP that neither he or any of his family members were hurt in the attack but gave no further information. Additional $11 million in aid The same evening, the White House said in a statement that the US would provide an additional $11 million of aid to local and international organizations responding to humanitarian needs. The International Organization for Migration said Monday that about 40,000 people have been displaced across northeast Libya, including 30,000 in Derna. Residents from the nearby cities of Benghazi and Tobruk have offered to put up the displaced, while volunteers search for survivors buried beneath the rubble. When the flood struck, Mraje Kdour and his three brothers managed to escape the second floor, but his sister didn't make it. We got so close to the ceiling. We were barely able to breathe," Kdour told The Associated Press The health minister from Libya's eastern government, Othman Abduljaleel, said Sunday that his ministry had begun a vaccination program against diseases that usually occur after disasters such as this one but didn't elaborate. Libyas Red Crescent has said at least 11,300 people have been killed and an additional 10,000 are missing. After earlier reporting that same death toll, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs is now citing far lower numbers, with about 4,000 people killed and 9,000 missing. Abduljaleel said at least 3,338 bodies had been identified and buried as of Monday night. He didnt give a figure for how many bodies had been retrieved but previously tallied the figure at 2,000 Thursday. Last week, Derna's mayor said the toll could reach 20,000 dead. Meanwhile, the floods have raised concerns about the ruins of Ceyrene, an ancient Greco-Roman city roughly 60 kilometres east of Derna that is one of five Libyan UNESCO World Heritage sites. UNESCO is in contact with archaeologists on the ground and its satellite imaging team is also trying to establish what the damage might be, the agency said Monday in a statement sent to the AP. Former President Donald Trump said Sunday he didnt respect his attorneys and that it was his decision to challenge the results of the 2020 election he lost to Joe Biden in a new interview with NBC News. The most senior lawyers in your own administration and on your campaign told you that after you lost more than 60 legal challenges that it was over, Meet the Press moderator Kristen Welker said during the program. Why did you ignore them and decide to listen to a new outside group of attorneys? Because I didnt respect them, Trump replied. When Welker noted that he hired them to be his legal counsel, Trump shot back: You hire them, you never met these people. You get a recommendation. They turn out to be RINOs, or they turn out to be not so good, he said, using an acronym for Republican In Name Only. In many cases, I didnt respect them. But I did respect others. I respected many others that said the election was rigged. WATCH: Kristen Welker asks former President Trump to clarify if he was listening to his lawyers advice or his own instincts after he lost the 2020 election. Trump: It was my decision. pic.twitter.com/ib4D5rKfqN Meet the Press (@MeetThePress) September 17, 2023 The former president went on to say he listened to himself and those who supported his false claims of electoral fraud as he saw what happened during the 2020 race. My instincts are a big part of it. Thats been the thing thats gotten me to where I am, my instincts, he said. Were you calling the shots, though, Mr. President, ultimately? Welker asked. As to whether or not I believed it was rigged? Oh, sure, Trump said. ...It was my decision. But I listened to some people. Some people said that. Trump has been indicted in two cases linked to his effort to remain in power. Special counsel Jack Smith charged the president with multiple federal crimes described as an overarching criminal conspiracy to defraud the United States and obstruct an official proceeding. The former president was also indicted in Georgia on more than a dozen felonies in a sweeping racketeering case that also named 18 other defendants. Story continues Welker went on to ask if Trump was concerned about the whirlwind of investigations into his behavior, which also include state charges in New York over hush money payments to a porn star and federal charges over his handling of classified documents. When you go to bed at night, do you worry about going to jail? she asked. No, I dont really. I dont even think about it, Trump replied. Im built a little differently, I guess. Related... The United Nations said the death toll from Storm Daniel in Libyan stood at nearly 4,000, which is a drastic drop from 11,300 it had previously reported. File Photo by Mohamed Shalash/EPA-EFE Sept. 18 (UPI) -- The United Nations' humanitarian affairs office has drastically revised down the death toll from Storm Daniel in Libya by several thousand while stating it expects the figure to rise again amid search-and-rescue work. The U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said in a 5 p.m. local time Saturday update that the unprecedented flooding caused by Storm Daniel that hit the North African nation earlier this month has killed 3,958 people. The adjustment came after the OCHA on Friday had said, citing the Libyan Red Crescent, that at least 11,300 people had died in Derna from the flooding. In its Saturday update, it cited the World Health Organization, which added that more than 9,000 were still missing. Concerning the discrepancy, Libyan Red Cross confirmed to UPI on Monday that its head of communications, Tawfik Shoukri, "did not communicate the number" previously cited by the OCHA. "We recognize the urgency in confirming the number of lives affected and displaced due to the recent floods in Libya," it said. "However, at this stage, it's crucial to understand that the responsibility for verifying and disseminating official figures rests with the Libyan authorities. We cannot confirm numbers, but we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing humanitarian aid in coordination with the relevant agencies." Farhan Haq, deputy spokesman for U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres, told CNN, that the figures had been recently verified by the WHO. "In a lot of different tragedies, we end up revising our numbers. So, that's what's happening here," Haq said. "Standard procedure is we work with different parties trying to make sure our numbers are cross checked. Whenever we do these revisions, it's because our numbers are being cross checked." The storm hit Libya on Sept. 10, causing devastating landslides. Two dams collapsed in the port city of Derna, which was among the worst cities affected by the natural disaster. Story continues The U.N. report on Saturday said reports of two more dams overwhelmed by rapidly rising water in the northeast have raised concerns that they too may fail and trigger even more destruction. "The humanitarian situation remains particularly grim in Derna, where urgent multi-sectoral assistance is required to save lives and ease suffering," the update said. According to the U.N.'s International Organization for Migration, more than 40,000 people have been displaced across northeastern Libya, though experts expect this number to increase as they gain access to the worst affected areas, including Derna, where at least 30,000 have been displaced. The U.N. said that the storm's devastation was "severely exacerbated" by high levels of pre-existing needs and vulnerabilities, including deteriorating critical infrastructure, such as hospitals and schools. Wolfgang Van Halen refuses to cover his dad's songs at his gigs credit:Bang Showbiz Eddie Van Halen's son Wolfgang Van Halen refuses to cover his dad's songs because it's important to be his "own musician". Wolfgang played bass in his father's band Van Halen for four years, but he's been focusing on his solo project Mammoth WVH since Eddie's death in 2020 and the 32-year-old musician has now revealed why he doesn't play any of the band's hits at his shows. Speaking on the 'Talk Is Jericho' podcast, Wolfgang explained: "Im happy to be able to prove myself. The important key distinction is that Im not doing what my dad did, Im my own person, Im my own musician its why I dont play any Van Halen music or have a plan to play Van Halen music during my sets. "Even my dad hated doing covers back in the day, his quote resonates with me all the time where he says: Id rather bomb with my own music than succeed with somebody elses, and thats exactly how I feel about playing Van Halen music. Id much rather fail on my own than succeed heartlessly by playing Panama." However, Wolfgang made an exception last year when he took to the stage at the Foo Fighters' Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concerts in London and Los Angeles to perform On Fire, Hot For Teacher and Panama' in honour of the later drummer, who was a huge fan of Van Halen. Wolfgang said of the decision: "It was wonderful. It was the exception where it was like, this would be the time to do it. Taylor was such a huge fan and to get my own satisfaction of doing a direct Van Halen tribute for dad, it felt like the right thing to do in that moment. Im really proud of it." Of all the popular genres that Jess Franco imbued with his own sleazy, fly-by-night approach, it makes a lot of sense that the spy genre was one where he could really be uninhibited without too much being cut by censors. Thats part of why The Girl from Rio sticks out in his long, illustrious career; its a perfect example of when Uncle Jess was assigned to rip off something popular in another part of the world and bring back much more than a tired retread. Jess brought back something truly kinky and demented that could still be marketed as a spy flick. Whats more, he pulled Goldfinger actress Shirley Eaton to lead the film, further bridging the gap between Hollywood productions and the outsiders producing cheapies for the drive-in circuit. The Girl from Rio could be taken as Jess own version of Girl Boss Cinema hes obsessed with the physical and emotional power that a scantily-clad woman can have, and the spy genre is the perfect format for him to run with that. Such is what drives The Girl from Rio, a caper based upon Sax Rohmers Sumuru character and her merry band of leather-clad, stoic women who sexually torture all who oppose them. And in classic Franco fashion, hes much less interested in the actual male spies than the women who foil their plans. You can even say that the film is like an upside-down James Bond tale, in which more attention is given to the villains and their hijinks than the hero himself. The plot is rather harebrained, unsurprisingly. It follows Jeff Sutton (Richard Wyler), an American with 10 million dollars in cold hard cash who immediately gets the attention of evil crime boss Masius (George Sanders). Sumuru (Shirley Eaton) also catches wind of the cash and is on her mission to defeat all mens kingdoms. Jeffs interest in bedding women soon gets him into deep trouble, when Sumurus gals whisk Jeff away to the female enclave of Femina, where Jeff will be tortured relentlessly until the cash is given up. Naturally, Jeff escapes to Rio and is caught between Sumuru and Masius in an all-out war. If youre not familiar with Jess Francos world of kink and camera zooms, then Id estimate that The Girl from Rio would be easily accessible to the uninitiated. Its amalgam of normal spy hijinks and cheap, art-deco design makes for a loose, easygoing time with Sumuru and her merry band of strong women. All the beautiful location shooting only gives more credence to the things on display, as Franco always had an eye for environment and made due with absolutely nothing. This is all slack work from Uncle Jess, but its not nothing to have a spy film where sexuality and sadism is actually given more weight than better-funded productions. Franco may have been a perv, though there are few directors who look to the female form in appreciation and abject terror quite like him. And that, folks, makes The Girl from Rio a worthwhile exploitation flick. Vital Disc Stats: The Blu-rays The Girl from Rio flies into your collection with a two-disc release that comes in a standard black case and is enclosed in a limited-edition embossed slipcover showcasing new art produced for this release. Both discs, BD66 for the UHD and BD50 for the standard Blu-ray, boot up to standard menu screens with options to play the film, select scenes, set up audio and video, as well as explore bonus features. University of North Georgia (UNG) cadets traveled abroad this summer for a wide range of professional development opportunities and events, including visits to international military academy partners and leadership courses. "We want to provide relevant international programs that provide our cadets insight into our allies' and partners national security and military affairs," Wes Pirkle, the director of Global Military Programs said. "We also have generous donors that enable us to provide these programs at a low cost to our cadets." Cadets who gained experience abroad this summer included: Devin Petmecky completed an internship in Suriname for eight weeks. Cody Green, Andrew Flournoy, Garrett Cochran, and Hailey Thomas completed internships over the course of two months in the Republic of Georgia. George Thompson and Caleb Hubbard traveled to Romania to complete their eight-week internship at the Land Forces Academy. Benjamin Smith and Jack Rainbow attended the National Defense Academy of Latvia with other cadets from around Europe for their internships. Asher Brinke and Charles Forbes participated in the Swiss Mountaineering Course for two weeks. Smith and John Jolly completed the Polish Mountaineering Course. Rainbow, a senior from Kennesaw, Georgia, pursuing a degree in strategic and security studies, traveled to Latvia on June 6 for eight weeks to participate in his internship. Having never learned any Latvian, some of his favorite memories abroad are a result of studying the language. Students and alumni at the University of North Georgia (UNG) from all campuses will have the chance this fall to interact with business and government recruiters at the Dahlonega and Gainesville campuses. Attendees can expect to find employers that are actively recruiting for entry-level positions and potential internship opportunities for current students. Lisa Walker, Career Services assistant director, said these experiences are great learning opportunities. "These are always just learning experiences. Students can learn how to get comfortable with networking and talking to industry professionals," Walker said. "If they are nervous, we can talk that out in Career Services." On Sept. 19 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. students and alumni interested in careers and internships in the field of nursing will be able to take part in the Fall Nursing Career Fair. The event can only be attended by students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or alumni with the degree and will be held in the Health and Natural Sciences Building at the Dahlonega Campus. University of North Georgia (UNG) leaders visited local businesses and met with state and local government officials in the two-day Regional Education and Economic Development (REED) Tour in Dawson and Lumpkin counties Sept. 13-14. "We were grateful to have these discussions that allow us to see what our community needs and how UNG can step into the gap to help," UNG President Michael Shannon said. "This year's REED Tour was the beginning of many important conversations that will position us to serve our region and prepare a workforce that has the skills employers are seeking." According to the most recent census population estimate, Lumpkin and Dawson are tied for third place among the fastest-growing counties in the nation based on percentage. "This growth brings new opportunities but also a fear for many that these communities will lose their distinctive rural character," Bobbi Larson, executive director of economic development and community engagement, said. "We held the REED Tour to raise awareness of UNG's academic programs and expertise, as well as partnerships with local businesses and organizations. We also wanted to highlight the career opportunities and leadership of our graduates in the region, as well as spotlighting UNG's role in post-secondary education and regional economic development." Compiled by Mai Linh HA NOI Viet Nam needs to develop policies to encourage enterprises to take action for power saving in the context that electricity shortages were forecast to persist. Massive power outages last summer, which seriously affected production and daily life, underlined a pressing need for saving energy. A recent report by the World Bank showed that the power outages in the northern Viet Nam in May and June caused a significant economic blow of around US$1.4 billion or 0.3 per cent of the countrys GDP. Tran Viet Nguyen, deputy head of Vietnam Electricity (EVN)s business department, said that the northern region might continue to face power shortages in the next two years. In the context of supply shortages, electricity users played a very important role in how to ensure efficient and economical use of electricity. Power shortages remained stressing for the northern region in the next two years as major power generation projects were behind schedule and could not go operational soon, including An Khanh, Na Duong 2 and Cam Pha projects with a total capacity of more than 4,200 MW, Nguyen Anh Tuan from Viet Nam Energy Associations said. In a report to the Government in June, EVN said that the demand for electricity in the North increased on average 10 per cent, equivalent to 2,400-2,900 MW, per year. Meanwhile, new power sources which were expected to be put into operation in 2024 and 2025 had a total capacity of 780 MW and 1,620 MW, respectively, meaning that the new supply would only meet 30-50 per cent of the increase in power demand in the region each year. Thus, electricity supply to the North would remain a problem in the next two years, especially at the end of the dry season when the water level of hydropower reservoirs dropped. Trinh Quoc Vu, Deputy Director of the Energy Saving Department under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, said that in order to cope with the severe electricity shortages as what had happened during the summer, the ministry called on each individual and organisation, especially enterprises, to take action to save energy. The ministrys report showed that industries accounted for more than 50 per cent of the countrys total energy consumption. If each enterprise saved at least 2 per cent of its energy consumption each year, an estimated volume of 1.4 billion kWh could be saved, equivalent to VN3 trillion. Policies to encourage energy saving For many years, DAP Vinachem Joint Stock Company developed energysaving operation plans which helped significantly reduce costs. DAP had a steam turbinepowered generator with a design capacity of 12 MW, which generated power from collecting excess heat from the chemical reaction process. The generator helped the company to meet 70 80 per cent of the electricity demand. Using excess heat and gas from steel production to generate electricity, Hoa Phat Group saved more than VN1.6 trillion in the first half of 2023. According to Nguyen, the benefits of energy saving were undeniable. Many enterprises were interested in investing in technology solutions to save energy, but the resources for doing this were limited. Many enterprises are well aware of the benefits of energy saving, but limited resources were what make them hesitant, he said. Vu uc Giang, President of Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association, said garment and textile were among the sectors which were speeding up the green transition to cope with green requirements from Europe with many enterprises getting ready to install rooftop solar systems. However, the biggest problem for enterprises in the green transition process was financial resources, Giang said, adding that not every enterprise was capable in terms of financial capacity to implement green transitions, especially, when most garment and textile companies were of small and medium sizes. According to Chu Ba Thi, senior energy expert at the World Bank, investment in energy saving at industrial enterprises was not commensurate with the benefits that technological innovations to save energy brought. The main reason was the lack of capital for technology renovation, he said, adding that partial or synchronous application of energy-saving solutions such as installation of energy-saving equipment and systems, waste heat recovery and integration of renewable energy all required huge capital. Accessing financial sources for investment in energy-saving solutions remained a challenge for most domestic enterprises, he said. Thi said that policies should be raised to enable enterprises to access cheap capital sources for investment in energy-saving solutions. Le Chi Hiep from HCM City University of Technology said that it was necessary to develop more specific and clearer regulations for rooftop solar power to promote the green transformation process at enterprises. To encourage electricity saving in the 2023-25 period, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh issued Directive No 20/CT-TTg, which set a target that the whole country would save at least two per cent of the total power consumption each year and reduce power loss across the entire power system to less than six per cent by 2025. VNS HA NOI The agriculture sector and localities need to find prompt solutions for sustainable development in durian cultivation and consumption, according to Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Le Minh Hoan. If the durian industry, as well as other commodities, wants to develop sustainably, they must reorganise the structure from the production stage to consumption, Hoan said. This means fostering cooperation between enterprises and farmers from the selection of durian varieties for production, rather than just engaging in purchasing activities. They need to transition from a business relationship to a cooperative one. The minister also suggested that growing areas must register a code to plant durian according to standards. Moreover, it is essential to foster a close connection among businesses, cooperatives, and farmers. They must understand that sustainable development is not only for durian trees but also for businesses and farmers, as they will participate in the sustainable durian supply chain. Nguyen Quoc Toan, Director of MARDs Centre for Digital Transformation and Agricultural Statistics, acknowledged that the durian industry has expanded rapidly in recent years. Therefore, it's crucial to establish a policy framework and appropriate standards for sustainable development. In addition to fresh durian products, the industry needs to develop processed products and also come up with specific plans for the development of durian growing areas nationwide, Toan said. To achieve sustainable development of the durian industry, several key bottlenecks must be addressed, including rapid growth, unfair competition in purchasing durians, processing infrastructure, quality management, and establishing connections among farmers, traders, and exporters; and the creation of standard processes, according to Toan. Furthermore, Toan urged localities and enterprises to focus on frozen durian products for export thanks to the potential of these products. He also recommended expanding business to other markets through new-generation free trade agreements (FTAs). At present, Viet Nam is involved in numerous FTAs such as CPTPP, EVFTA, RCEP, as well as significant communities like ASEAN and the Eurasian Economic Union. This provides opportunities for the durian industry to boost exports. According to Nguyen Thi Thai Thanh, chairwoman of Ban Me Green Farm Joint Stock Company, a major challenge in the durian industry is the lack of consistency in the linkage between production and consumption. The durian industry lacks a tight bond between cooperatives, farmers, and businesses. Thus, if durian prices soar, farmers might refrain from selling durians to businesses offering lower prices than previously agreed upon. This leads to instability in the industrys operations. At the same time, cooperatives have not truly maximised their role in the linkage chain, Thanh noted. Nguyen Hoai Duong, director of ak Lak province's Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, said that in the past two years, durian prices have risen following the signing of the protocol on plant quarantine requirements for official durian exports to China between Viet Nam and China. This has greatly motivated the growth of the durian industry, substantially raising the income of farmers and the profits of businesses within the durian supply chain. If the Vietnamese durian industry wants to achieve sustainable production and business, all stakeholders in the value chain must collaborate closely, Duong said. This means that farmers, businesses, localities with growing areas, State management agencies, and scientists should unite in developing the industry. Nong Ngoc Trung, chairman of Golden Field Company (Lang Son province), specialising in processing agricultural products for export to China, said that to export Vietnamese durian to China, businesses must cooperate with each other in accessing this market instead of competing on price. Trung suggested that the Viet Nam Durian Association should engage potential businesses to join the production chain and introduce more Vietnamese durians to the global market. Vu uc Con, deputy director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and Chairman of the ak Lak Durian Association, proposed that for sustainable durian development, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development should issue decrees and circulars that guide the grant and management of codes for growing areas, as opposed to the current technical documents. Con highlighted that the export value of Vietnamese durian rose from US$29.2 million in 2016 to $420 million in 2022. In the first eight months of 2023, it reached nearly $1.2 billion, which is three times the value for the entirety of 2022. Exports are projected to reach $1.5 billion for the entire year, predominantly comprising fresh and frozen durian, which is 3.5 times the 2022 value. The primary export destinations are China, Japan, and Australia. As of August 2023, Viet Nam boasts 422 coded durian growing areas and 153 coded packaging facilities that meet the export market's requirements. Specifically, in ak Lak, durian production has surged between 2016 and 2023, from over 30,000 tonnes to about 190,000 tonnes, growing at roughly 30 per cent annually. Of this, the output from coded growing areas is around 47,300 tonnes, representing 25 per cent. ak Lak currently has the second-highest durian output nationwide, following Tien Giang. The ak Lak Department of Industry and Trade reported that the province's durian exports to the Chinese market in 2022 amounted to about $11.7 million. For 2023, the province's durian exports are projected to be around 40,000 to 45,000 tonnes, generating approximately $150-160 million. Viet Nam is currently home to more than 112,000 hectares of durian cultivation. This area has expanded swiftly in recent years, with notable concentrations in the Central Highlands (about 47 per cent), Mekong Delta (around 30 per cent), Southeast region (roughly 19 per cent), and several other localities. VNS A NANG The centre for biodiversity conservation, GreenViet, has been raising fund for an afforestration project on 50ha in the upstream forest of the mountainous Hoa Bac commune an effort in reducing erosion and landslide in the lower river area and strengthening climate change resilience for the citys suburban zone. The fund raising campaign, Bring the forest back to life, which was launched in co-operation with the Gustav-Stresemann Institute (GSI, Germany) and EU, has initiated with 60,000 large timber trees, offering a cost of VN49,000 (US$1.68) for planting and supervising a tree in the commune in 2023-24. In the fund-raising night music event in early August, donors contributed a fund for plantation of 220 trees and 40 tonnes of bio-fertilizer from ang Gia Trang company, for starting the plantation in November of 2023, GreenViet said. It said the campaign aims to collect VN3 billion ($120,000) for the upstream forest restoration with the participation of ethnic Co Tu community living in the commune 40km away from the citys downtown. Earlier this year, GreenViet, a non-profit NGO, began the indigenous timber forest restoration on 18.1ha in Hoa Lien Commune as a sustainable agro-forest production with funding from Ecoculture of the US. GreenViet said it has been implementing the One Million Trees Plantation project in a Nang, Ha Noi and HCM City to provide a green shadow for the community and reduce air pollution from 2021-2025. More than 1,000 big trees had been grown by volunteers and GreenViet in Son Tra Nature Reserve in the city. The European Union (EU) is funding a biodiversity protection and environmental sustainability project in central a Nang City in 42 months from July 2020, to the end of December 2023, with total funding of 650,000 euros. a Nang has been raising total funds of $4.4 million for conservation, forest protection and afforestation and establishing new reserves on 43,722ha by 2030. GreenViet alone has received VN45 billion ($1.8 million) from the community in funding for biodiversity protection and environmental sustainability in a Nang over past decades. VNS NEW YORK Viet Nam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh's attendance at the high-level week of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly conveys a message about a peace-loving Viet Nam that is a responsible member participating more actively, proactively and effectively in the UNs common work of handling global challenges to international friends, according to a Vietnamese diplomat. Ambassador ang Hoang Giang, Permanent Representative of Viet Nam to the UN, said that the participation of the Vietnamese high-level delegation at major UN events this year demonstrates the highest commitment of the countrys Party, State and people to be willing to actively contribute to the common efforts of the international community to maintain international peace and security and sustainable development. Viet Nam continues to affirm its role as a responsible member which takes part actively in and contributes specifically and substantially to the common work and major priorities of the UN and the international community, shares lessons, ideas and solutions to promote international cooperation and solidarity and strengthen multilateralism to effectively respond to global challenges and non-traditional security issues. Specifically, Viet Nam always affirms its consistent policy of taking people as the centre and the driving force of all policy decisions which is also the guiding principle that the UN always strives to pursue. Viet Nam calls for strengthening trust, and international solidarity and responsibility, Giang said, adding that for its part, Viet Nam is participating and reaffirming its active implementation of international commitments, as well as its readiness to fulfil obligations and responsibilities of a member state in all fields. The country effectively promotes its participation in, and contributions to enhancing the UNs role in building a global governance system based on international law and generally-accepted standards to ensure the maintenance of peace and the facilitation of sustainable and equitable development. During that process, Viet Nam has participated in many initiatives and solutions that are both linked to the country's priorities and to common concerns of the UN and the international community such as chairing a discussion of the UN General Assembly and vote on a resolution asking the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to define the obligations of states to combat climate change, the diplomat stated. Those achievements and imprints are the basis for Viet Nam to be proud and confident that the country not only is truly serious and ready to be a reliable, constructive and responsible partner of the international community, but also has enough professional capacity, resources and competent officials to shoulder important responsibilities, worthy of the country's new position. During their trip in the US from September 17-23, the Vietnamese delegation will also make effective use of the activities of the high-level week to further deepen bilateral relationships with major partners, including the US, he said. Regarding the 77th session of the UNGA which concluded on September 5, Ambassador Giang affirmed that Viet Nam completed its successful one-year term as Vice President of the session. Viet Nam successfully performed its role, demonstrated through its extensive participation in the discussions to push the UNGA to approve agendas covering all aspects of international life. It also fully participated in the process of proposing and planning important decisions to the world. During the last term, Viet Nam and several countries have proposed initiatives and solutions on many major UN issues such as upholding international marine law, and law of the sea, water security, responsibility to prevent and control crimes against humanity, equal access to justice, preparation for the summit on diseases prevention and control, universal health coverage, tuberculosis, and UNGA operation reforms. VNS HAVANA Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha on September 16 met with Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz as part of the Vietnamese officials visit to the Caribbean nation for the Group of 77 plus China (G77+China) Summit. Ha affirmed that the Vietnamese Party, State, Government, National Assembly and people always remember the whole-hearted support of Cuba, and treasure and stay resolved to deepen the traditional solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries. Viet Nam supports Cubas just revolutionary cause and will make more efforts, together with Cuba, to overcome the current challenges, he pledged, suggesting the two sides maintain their close cooperation to create optimal conditions for their businesses to enhance their trade and investment ties. For his part, Manuel Marrero Cruz highlighted the fraternity between Viet Nam and Cuba, and thanked Viet Nam for its support, especially its rice supply through both donations and commercial contracts. The bilateral relationship is thriving as reflected through the Cuba visit by NA Chairman Vuong inh Hue in April and the trip to Viet Nam later this month by the Cuban top legislator to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the visit to the liberated zone in South Viet Nam by leader Fidel Castro. The host agreed to direct ministries and agencies to coordinate more closely with Vietnam to promote the bilateral investment and trade relations, particularly in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and infrastructure, stressing that the two sides are now able to move to a new phase of bilateral economic and trade cooperation. The same day, Ha received Cuban Minister of Construction Rene Mesa Villafana, and visited the ViMariel Industrial Park invested by Viet Nam's Viglacera Group. Located in the Mariel Special Development Zone, ViMariel, the first and the only industrial park invested by Viet Nam in the Caribbean nation, is home to 64 investment projects worth US$3.3 billion, of them 44 operational. VNS President of Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Duarte Pacheco spoke to the media on the his impressions of the organisation efforts and the outcomes of the 9th Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians that was held in Ha Noi in September 14-18. Could you share with us your main impressions about the 9th Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians hosted by Viet Nam? It was a very positive conference. Of course, we know that when Viet Nam decides to organise something, it will be a success, because the commitment of the host is amazing and so they prepared everything in all details. Then we have also the commitment from so many parliamentarians around the world. More than 300 came from abroad, more 200 from Viet Nam, so we have a participation of 500 young members of parliament (MPs), we've never had something like that. It shows that politicians are able to work together to find solutions to the problems of the world climate change, narcotic trafficking, or trafficking of human beings, but also to achieve UN Sustainable Development Goals. And they were very, very important discussions. Amazing statements from many of them with good experiences best practices but also to talk about mistakes that happen because only if we know that is it possible to avoid to commit some mistakes of a country. We need to learn from each other. It was very fruitful assembly of young parliamentarians. This is also the very first time that a global conference of young MP adopted a declaration or a statement (Conference Statement on "The role of youth in accelerating the achievement of the SDGs through digital transformation and innovation"). What do you think about the meaning of it? It means that people came here from around the world, not just to meet, not just to discuss, but with a concrete objective, that we have concrete actions to take. And now they have a commitment to implement it. Because otherwise it will have a discussion everyone will learn. But it is now more than that, this final declaration will give a very concrete actions that each one needs to carry out and try to implement in their own countries, and they had this promise and IPU will follow up the implementation of this very important declaration. So what are your impressions about the young MPs of Viet Nam and also the youth of Viet Nam? Especially, on the first day before the beginning of the assembly, I was very impressed by the presence of many young people, but allow me to say they are very mature, not just at realising problems, but also appointing solutions. Because to point out the problem is easier, but point towards a solution means that someone makes a reflection, study the issue and tries to promote something and to present something and I saw that since the first time I came here. And also, it was very interesting to see that your parliament and your leadership are not just talking about participation of youth. They have their wish, but after it they gave concrete space for them, because in many cases, we have leaders that talk about it, but after it nothing happened. It is not the case in Viet Nam. And you have in your parliament, one of the, I guess, highest representation of young MPs in the world, maybe because that Viet Nam has a young, dynamic society because we know that when we are talking about youth, everywhere, but especially in politics and in parliament, they will come with new energy, the wish to change, to better. They are not just sitting there. They wish to do things, they wish to have concrete actions, they wish to have results. And so maybe, also because of so many young MPs in your parliament, you have also a very dynamic society. Through the organisation of this conferenc, what do you think about the role of Viet Nam in the international society, and also the contribution of the Viet Nam National Assembly in the IPU? We always say when we have assemblies of our meetings, Viet Nam is there not just to be there, but to give concrete contributions, to ask questions, to try to change things, try to get results. And so, it is not just participating, its an active participation. But also your Chairman of the National Assembly has put another issue on the table. We have finished this one conference, he [Chairman of the National Assembly of Viet Nam Vuong inh Hue] said we could organise another one Why not the World Conference of Speakers of Parliament, it's something that happened in IPU every five years when there are 80 speakers from five continents, and he wishes to host it and so the role of Viet Nam at the international level will increase. Especially it was very interesting when I met with His Excellency [Chairman Hue], I said we just have one condition, the host country needs to provide visas to all members that wish to come and he responded "of course we will do it because we are friends of everyone, we don't have enemies," Welcome!. And also this shows that at the international level, you are a state, a country [that is] open to everyone and also this way you will increase your vault at international relations. Regarding the theme of the conference, Viet Nam will pose an initiative to create a network of young MPs for innovation to accelerate the implementation of SDGs. So what do you think about this idea? Again, this is something that we will appreciate at our next General Assembly in Angola, next October. It is a positive for me it's positive but of course, the decisions are not mine, this is a decision of the General Assembly. We need to wait for the results, because each country is free to vote, but I think it is a positive proposal because we need to have as his excellency said implementation. And digitalisation also is relevant, but not just to talk about it, but we need to have concrete implementation. And so that's why to have a network that will follow what is being done what everyone is doing may be relevant. Also, every country knows that someone is watching and tries to understand what each one is doing, maybe everyone wishes to be nicer to the picture and theyll implement things as quick as possible. Following all of the sessions and all the discussions of this conference, do you want to send a message to the young MPs around the world to promote their role in the technology and innovation sector to accelerate the implementation of SDGs? Allow me to say I will give two things. The first for the young people and especially for the young MPs: Please do not give up too quickly. We need to do to build a better world, especially for them. Because my generation will be here 10-20 years. Its life, thats it. Young people, we hope that they will be here more 50 or 60 years. And so it means that what we decide today will influence the future, their families and their grandchildren, and that's why they should have an active role, and the young MPs should try to bring all young people participating because otherwise it will be others that will decide for them. They should be involved. And innovation and youth, I see both as two faces of the same coin. Because young people is very open to innovation, they are very open to change, to digitalisation of the economy of the digitalisation of society. They are about open for that. And so they are both faces of the same coin. It's easier to talk about with these issues with them. And the second message is not for young people, it is for the leaders of the world. Please give space for the young. Leaders of the world, work with young people with young MPs, give space for them. We will have a better life for all. Please do it. VNS HA NOI Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh's visit to attend the 20th China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) and China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit (CABIS) in Nanning City, China's Guangxi Province, from September 16-17 was successful and effective, said Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Minh Vu. Speaking to the press on the visit, Vu said the trip was a high-level foreign activity with a great significance. Within about 27 hours in Nanning, PM Chinh and his delegation had many effective high-level contacts such as holding talks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang; meeting member of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), Secretary of Guangxi Party Committee, and Chairman of the Standing Committee of the People's Congress of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Liu Ning; attending and delivering a speech at the opening ceremony of CAEXPO and CABIS 20; touring the Viet Nam Trade pavilion and booths at the expo; and receiving representatives of Chinese leading enterprises in the fields of railways, electricity, telecommunications, and construction. The visit has strengthened bilateral political trust and relations, intensified the practical cooperation between the two countries, and demonstrated Viet Nam's proactive and active contributions to the cooperation within the ASEAN and between the bloc and China, Vu said. In addition, the PM also visited and encouraged Vietnamese businesses taking part in the expo, which affirmed the message that the Government, ministries, branches and localities are always ready to accompany and support Vietnamese businesses to reach out to the Chinese market as well as regional and international ones. Regarding the Vietnamese businesses participation in the CAEXPO and CABIS, Deputy FM Vu highlighted that the Vietnamese pavilion with more than 200 booths on an area of more than 4,000sq.m is the largest among the ASEAN, adding they brought to the events key Vietnamese products such as agricultural products, seafood, processed foods, footwear, household appliances, garments, wooden furniture, and handicrafts. The large Vietnamese delegation and the contingent of the Vietnamese businesses at the events shows that Viet Nam has attached much importance to as well as the country's need and goodwill in realising its comprehensive and extensive cooperation with China, and with other ASEAN countries, and its potential and position in bilateral and multilateral economic and trade cooperation in the region, the official added. The Vietnamese delegation and businesses participated actively and made important contributions to the success of the events, Vu said, stressing that the message by PM Chinh on Viet Nam's determination and commitments as well as cooperation proposals concerning the strengthening of connectivity in various fields have won support from other countries. An active and responsible member of the ASEAN and China's biggest trade partners in the regional bloc, Viet Nam will, together with China and ASEAN members, further bring into play the role and vitality of CAEXPO and CABIS, opening up a new stage and boosting economic cooperation, trade, investment and other fields between the ASEAN and China, bringing practical benefits to the peoples and making active contributions to peace, cooperation and development in the region and the world over, Vu concluded. VNS NEW YORK Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh met with representatives of the Vietnamese community in the US on Sunday evening (local time), right after arriving in San Francisco for the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly and bilateral activities in the US. Representatives showed their delight at the homelands socio-economic achievements over the years, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic and expressed their hope to make more contributions to the growth of the Viet Nam-US relations. They briefed the Government leader on activities to maintain and promote Vietnamese cultural values in the US, and proposed ideas to help Viet Nam attract more high-quality human resources for national development, especially in science and technology. They said they hope for mechanisms to connect Vietnamese all over the world to join hands in developing the Fatherland. PM Chinh reviewed the Viet Nam-US relations and the elevation of the ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership during US President Joe Bidens recent visit to Viet Nam. He said that bilateral trade between Viet Nam and the US exceeded US$123 billion in 2020, while bilateral cooperation in other fields has been fruitful. Praising the role of the about 6-million-strong Vietnamese community in more than 130 countries and territories, including 600,000 experts and intellectuals, in the countrys development, PM Chinh affirmed that the Party and State always pay great attention to the Vietnamese community abroad and in the US in particular, considering them an inseparable part of the nation and a resource of the country. He expressed his hope that the Vietnamese community in the US will make more contributions to the growth of the Viet Nam-US relations. PM Chinh said that the country is showing a strong performance in post-pandemic socio-economic recovery and development, with peoples living conditions improved; defence and security ensured, international relations and integrations strengthened and role and position in the world arena enhanced. The Government leader expressed his hope that Vietnamese businesses, intellectuals and scientists in the US will continue to accompany with the countrys development with specific projects and activities. Regarding the communitys proposals, the PM pledged that he will ask ministries, sectors and relevant agencies to give suitable and timely response. VNS HA NOI The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued a directive urging local authorities to bolster their efforts in monitoring, promptly detecting and decisively addressing the activities of the Church of God the Mother, also known as the World Mission Society Church of God, in Viet Nam. The religious movement, originally established in South Korea in 1964 by Ahn Sahng-hong, who is believed to be Jesus Christ by its followers, is currently led by Jang Gil Ja, referred to as God the Mother. The emergence of the religious group in Viet Nam dates back to 2018 with a range of negative reports due to its unconventional teachings and methods of attracting followers, including deceptive recruitment, questionable and manipulative indoctrination, preaching of doomsday sermons and that salvation from a higher being is only possible by following the group, donating cash, and abandoning own families. In recent times, the religious group has re-emerged in various localities across the country, raising concerns among the public. Their activities are violating Viet Nams law on beliefs and religions, as well as going against Vietnamese traditions and values. Deputy Minister Vu Chien Thang has called upon local People's Committees to intensify their monitoring efforts, swiftly identify and eliminate the organisation of the Church of God the Mother in Viet Nam. Local authorities have been instructed to revoke religious operation registration certificates, prevent the re-establishment of this organisation and its places of worship, and decline to license any form of operational registration, including religious activity registration or other forms such as the establishment of non-governmental organisations, companies, representative offices, stores, clubs, extracurricular programmes. The People's Committees of cities and provinces must take strict measures against any violations of the law by this organisation. Such violations have negatively affected its followers and society, such as actions that disrupt social order and safety, insult and divide beliefs and religions, pose risks to individuals properties, health and life, as well as their dignity and honour. Thang stressed that relevant agencies and units must seriously address organisations and individuals engaged in illegal activities, including online misconduct. Furthermore, efforts should be made to disseminate information and educate the public about the Vietnamese Governments policies and laws regarding freedom of beliefs and religions. This should include raising awareness about the negative consequences by the Church of God the Mothers activities, especially at grassroot levels. Thang also called upon party committees, the Fatherland Front, and local authorities at all levels, as well as educational institutions at the local level, to strengthen information dissemination and raise awareness among officials, civil servants, employees, party members, union members, and students regarding the nature, tactics, and methods of operation of the Church of God the Mother. Appropriate measures and disciplinary actions should be taken against its followers to ensure compliance with legal provisions. VNS HA NOI A high-level funeral was held at the National Funeral Hall on Monday morning in Ha Noi for Senior Lieutenant General Nguyen Chi Vinh, former deputy minister of national defence, who passed away last Thursday morning after a serious illness. Delegations from the Party Central Committee, the National Assembly, the President's Office, the Government, the Central Committee of the Vietnam Fatherland Front, and the Ministry of National Defence paid tribute to the late Senior Lieutenant General. Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh sent wreaths to pay their respects. Writing in the book of condolence, State President Vo Van Thuong praised Vinh for being a defence leader with strategic vision and making many contributions to the common cause of the Party, people and army, especially in the fields of intelligence and defence diplomacy. National Assembly Chairman Vuong inh Hue expressed his condolences over the passing of Senior Lieutenant General Nguyen Chi Vinh, calling him a beloved comrade, brother, and friend. President of the Cambodian People's Party Samdech Hun Sen, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, Deputy Prime Minister Defence Minister of Laos Gen .Chansamone Chanyalath sent their wreaths to the service. Vinh was born on May 15, 1959 in Ha Noi. However, his official background documents say he was born in 1957 as he declared himself two years older to enlist in the army. From Quang ien District, central Thua Thien-Hue Province, he is the son of late General Nguyen Chi Thanh, director of the General Political Department of the Viet Nam People's Army. During his 12 years working as Deputy Minister of National Defence, Vinh made many contributions to promoting the development of Viet Nams defence diplomacy, for example, in sending forces to participate in UN peacekeeping missions, and organising a series of ASEAN defence and military conferences. He once said the most successful foreign policy formula is when both sides win. If you only think about your own interests, you will fail. But if you do not protect your interests, it will be harmful to the country, he said. He was granted a lot of medals and awards from the Party and State. VNS HA NOI Politburo member and President of the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics (HCMA) Nguyen Xuan Thang has hosted Asian Development Bank (ADB)s Country Director for Viet Nam Shantanu Chakraborty in Ha Noi on Monday. Thang said he hopes during Chakrabortys working tenure in Viet Nam, the ADB Country Director will continue to work to maintain and develop the banks cooperation with Viet Nam in general and the HCMA in particular. Affirming that the ADB has always been a reliable partner of the Government and people of Viet Nam over the past 30 years, Thang noted that it has supported Viet Nam in green transition, optimising the potential of the private sector, and promoting social equality, paving the way for Viet Nam to become an upper middle-income country by 2030. The HCMA President asked for ADBs stronger cooperation in implementing strategic research to serve the summary of the 40-year reform of Viet Nam and the building of documents for the 14th National Party Congress, along with researches on the promotion of motivation from regional connectivity in Viet Nam. For his part, Chakraborty said he is proud of cooperation between the ADB and the Vietnamese Government over the past three decades. He said the ADB has built a new Country Partnership Strategy (CPS) for Viet Nam in the 2023-26 period, which focuses on promoting the comprehensive and green growth of the country led by the private sector, and the building of a foundation for the country to become an upper middle-income country by 2030. Besides, the ADB has also supported projects related to climate change response. Highly valuing the partnership between the ADB and the HCMA over the years, Chakraborty affirmed that the academy is one of the important partners of the bank in Viet Nam, especially in the fields of education-training and knowledge management capacity enhancement. In the time to come, the ADB will concentrate on four input factors for projects in improving the academys knowledge management capacity, namely digitalising libraries and access to knowledge and information, modernising learning and knowledge sharing methods, strengthening the capacity to research, publish and upgrade the academy's journals to international standards, and developing a community of learners, researchers and potential students to exchange knowledge and enhance mutual learning. VNS PRETORIA The official visits to Mozambique and South Africa by Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan from September 10-17 have contributed to speeding up the implementation of the project "Developing relations between Viet Nam and countries in the Middle East - Africa region in 2016-2025, said Deputy Foreign Minister Le Thi Thu Hang. In an interview granted to the Vietnam News Agency, Hang underlined the significance of the visits, saying that they hold importance to Viet Nam and the two African nations. The visits were steps to strongly implement the foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation and development, and diversification and multilateralisation of foreign relations set forth by the 13th Party Congress, Hang said. They also demonstrated that Viet Nam attaches importance to its relations with Mozambique and South Africa Viet Nam's two traditional friends in Africa, she went on. Vice President Xuan's visits marked new milestones in strengthening bilateral relations with the two African countries, Hang said, noting that they were the first high-level visit by a Vietnamese leader to Mozambique in seven years and to South Africa in four years. They reflected the determination to further expand and deepen the traditional friendship between Viet Nam and Mozambique, and the partnership for cooperation and development between Viet Nam and South Africa, the official stressed, noting that the visits have achieved positive results across aspects and contributed to further strengthening the political trust between Viet Nam and the two nations. According to Hang, leaders of both African nations repeatedly expressed their admiration for Viet Nam's development achievements under the leadership of the Communist Party of Viet Nam (CPV), and underlined their friendship with the Southeast Asian nation. In Mozambique, Vice President Xuan held talks and met with President Filipe Nyusi who is President of Mozambican Liberation Front (Frelimo), Prime Minister Adriano Maleiane, President of the Assembly of Mozambique Esperanca Laurinda Francisco Nhiuane Bias, Secretary-General of Frelimo Roque Silva, and President of the Municipal Council of Maputo Eneas Comiche. In South Africa, the Vietnamese leader held talks with South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile, and had meetings with leaders of the South African Communist Party (SACP) and the African National Congress (ANC) Party, and key officials of ministries and sectors. Leaders of the two countries agreed to increase delegation exchanges and high-level meetings through both Party and State channels; promote the sharing of experience in leadership and state management; enhance the role of bilateral cooperation mechanisms; and negotiate and sign cooperation documents to strengthen the legal framework. They affirmed continued coordination and mutual support at multilateral forums. Viet Nam supports both Mozambique and South Africa in their cooperation with ASEAN, while the African nations committed to serve as bridges connecting Vietnam and the African Union (AU) and facilitate Viet Nam's access to the African market. The Vietnamese Vice Presidents visits have also created new momentum for economic, investment, and trade cooperation between Viet Nam and the African states, Deputy FM Hang said. Viet Nam considers culture as an important channel for strengthening exchange and connectivity between Viet Nam and the African nations, Hang said. The Deputy FM said she believes that on the basis of common perceptions achieved by leaders of Viet Nam and the African nations, relevant ministries, sectors and agencies of each country will continue to coordinate and take specific measures to elevate the cooperation between Viet Nam and the two countries to new heights, for the sake of the people of all three countries, contributing to peace, stability, cooperation, and development on both continents and around the world. VNS HA NOI Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai received Vice President of the Cuban National Assembly (NA) of Peoples Power Ana Maria Machado in Ha Noi on Monday, calling for support from the Cuban leader for economic, trade, and investment ties to develop on par with political relations between the two nations. Khai said that the visit by Machado, who has been in Viet Nam to attend the 9th Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians, demonstrates Cubas support for Viet Nam and helps strengthen the special traditional friendship between the two countries. The trip is even more significant as the two sides are celebrating the 60th founding anniversary of the Cuban Committee for Solidarity with South Viet Nam (September 1963) and 50 years since Cuban leader Fidel Castro Ruz first visited Viet Nam and came to the liberated zone in South Viet Nam (September 1973), he said. On behalf of the Vietnamese Government, Khai congratulated Cuba on its successful organisation of the G77+China Summit, which had been attended by over 100 international delegations. Vietnamese Deputy PM Tran Hong Ha attended the event and engaged in a number of multilateral and bilateral activities in the Caribbean nation. Khai expressed his delight that the Viet Nam-Cuba solidarity and mutual trust have continued growing strongly, practically, and effectively. Dialogue and cooperation mechanisms have been maintained, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Relations between the Parties, States, and people of Vietnam and Cuba have been increasingly intensified. In addition, economic, trade and investment ties have received more attention. Despite many difficulties and challenges, bilateral trade reached US$182 million in 2022. Vietnamese businesses have also gradually expanded investment in Cuba, particularly in the areas where Cuba has advantages such as agriculture and food security, defence - security, culture, education, and science - technology, he noted. The Deputy PM expressed his hope that in the spirit of both comradeship and fraternity, Viet Nam and Cuba will keep fostering cooperation to promote the practical and result-oriented development of their ties. For her part, Machado applauded Viet Nam's recent achievements and cooperation in various fields between the two countries, and informed her host about Cubas socio-economic situation. Cuba will continue enhancing relations with Viet Nam in different fields and creating conditions for Vietnamese firms to cooperate, invest, and do business in the country, she affirmed. Cuba has a contingent of highly experienced experts, not only in healthcare but also in other spheres, Machado said, adding that the Cuban NA will exert all-out efforts to contribute to the bilateral ties for the sake of the two nations' people. Sharing his guests views on the bilateral relations and cooperation, Khai presented some of the Vietnamese Governments proposals and voiced his hope for support from leaders of the Cuban Party, Government, and NA so as to develop economic, trade, and investment ties on par with their potential and the sound political relations. Within the cooperation framework and its capacity, the Vietnamese Government will do its utmost to nurture and promote traditional relations, particularly in the fields where they are strong, he said. The Deputy PM also called on Cuba to continue assisting Vietnamese enterprises to expand investment, production, and business activities and issue a suitable payment mechanism for projects, including the implemented ones in agriculture. VNS Xi highlights advancement in education China Daily) 17:27, September 18, 2023 Teachers encourage students to jump over "hurdles" to welcome the new semester at an elementary school in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, on Aug 31, 2023. [Photo by Dong Xuming/For China Daily] He says this will provide key support for greater sci-tech self-reliance, strength As international competition increases for cutting-edge technologies and talented people, and particularly amid some countries' attempts in recent years to suppress China's development, the Chinese leadership has emphasized building the country into a leader in education, which in turn will contribute to a stronger nation. President Xi Jinping, who attaches great importance to the country's progress in the sectors of education, science and technology, and human resources development, has pointed out that making the nation a leader in education will serve as a strategic precursor to building a great modern socialist country in all respects. "Building a leading country in education is an important support for achieving greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology, an effective approach to promoting common prosperity for all, and a fundamental project to advance the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts through a Chinese path to modernization," he said. Xi, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks at a group study session of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee on May 29. The speech that Xi gave at the group study session was published on Saturday in the 18th issue of Qiushi Journal, the flagship magazine of the CPC Central Committee. Xi's remarks on education came as the world is undergoing a new round of technological evolution and industrial transformation. Against such a backdrop, China is facing increasing challenges arising from geopolitical competition and attempts by United States-led Western countries to suppress and blockade its economic and technological progress. On many occasions, including his inspection tours nationwide, Xi has highlighted the importance of seeking scientific and technological independence and strength in advancing the nation's modernization drive in all respects. In a reply letter sent on Friday to the faculty and students at Northeastern University in Shenyang, Liaoning province, which celebrated its 100th anniversary on Saturday, Xi expressed the hope that the university could cultivate more high-caliber talent based on the country's strategic needs, expand its leading edge in strong disciplines, and continue to produce high-level scientific research results. In the speech published on Saturday by Qiushi Journal, Xi explained how China will make itself a leader in education. "Only when basic education enjoys sound development, can we make steady progress in building up our country's strength in education and sustaining its momentum," Xi said. He emphasized that higher education is the key to China's becoming a leading nation in the field of education. "Priority must be given to the building of world-class universities and superior disciplines, and the development of basic, emerging and interdisciplinary subjects must be strengthened." "Education in science and technology and engineering should be furthered. Greater efforts should be made to nurture China's top-notch and innovative talent on our own to provide support for achieving breakthroughs in core technologies in key fields," Xi said. Since the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012, the CPC Central Committee has considered education to be of great significance to the future of the country and the Party. It also has made important decisions to accelerate the modernization of education and develop the country as a leader in this regard. The CPC Central Committee and the State Council, China's Cabinet, released an education modernization plan in February 2019, outlining blueprints for the sector's modernization and development by 2035, the year by which the country is determined to basically achieve socialist modernization and become an education powerhouse. Yu Yongyue, a professor at Wuhan University's School of Marxism, said that to accelerate the development of China as a leading country in education, the focus should be fixed on the process of the nation's modernization drive. "We need to comprehensively consider the challenges and opportunities brought by the world's major development, transformation and adjustment to the nation's modernization in the education sector, while aligning with national strategies of building a technology powerhouse, developing a quality workforce in the new era and promoting rural vitalization," Yu said. China has established the largest education system in the world and joined the ranks of upper- to middle-level countries in terms of the overall level of modernization in education. China ranks 23rd in a global education index, up 26 spots from 2012, with the fastest progress in the world. (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun) HA NOI Different localities in Ha Noi have conducted many activities to prevent and control dengue fever. The activities were implemented after dengue fever in Ha Noi continued to rise, with more than 9,800 cases in 599 outbreaks from the beginning of this year to 14 September. Three fatalities were reported. Ha ong District People's Committee launched the Green Saturday campaign on Saturday to protect the environment and prevent and control dengue fever. The Chairwoman of the Ha ong District People's Committee, Can Thi Viet Ha, said that every year the district organised various campaigns to clean the environment and kill larvae in the community. In particular, cleaning up waste in residential areas, public spaces and roads was held every Saturday or Sunday morning by ward peoples committees. Local authorities strictly inspect and penalise those dumping waste in improper places. However, due to the vast area and complex residential situations, many residential areas have not actively participated in the activities. As a result, many places have not been cleaned up and treated promptly. In the first nine months of this year, Ha ong District has recorded over 500 cases of dengue fever, and the number of cases is expected to rise in the coming months. In order for the "Green Saturday" campaign to yield practical results, Ha called for all levels and residents to actively participate, proactively implement measures, and cooperate with the health sector to prevent dengue fever in workplaces, homes, and the wider community. Following the launch ceremony, soldiers, youth union members, and members of various organisations in Ha ong District worked on cleaning the environment and eliminating larvae in key areas. In Me Linh District, communes and towns have intensified education efforts to raise awareness among residents about dengue fever prevention and control. By the previous Monday, the district had reported 109 cases of dengue fever, primarily concentrated in Quang Minh Town, Me Linh, and Hoang Kim communes. These outbreaks have been addressed using mosquito-killing chemicals. In the spirit of proactive dengue prevention, all 18 communes and towns in the district established a network of 670 collaborators, a volunteer team comprising over 1,000 members, and 214 monitoring teams. These teams inspected 55,847 out of 56,466 households, agencies, and public spaces in the district, achieving a coverage of 98.95 per cent. As many as 8,233 out of 8,237 water containers with larvae were treated, achieving a success rate of 99 per cent. Over 7,000 fish were released. The Me Linh District Medical Centre has organised over 20 campaigns to clean the environment and eradicate larvae in communes, towns, and schools. In response to the ASEAN Day for Dengue Prevention and Control, the centre hosted an education day at the district health centre and in all 18 communes and towns. The centre distributed 41,000 leaflets to households and regularly broadcast messages on the local radio system. Along with environmental sanitation, local medical workers provided people with information about preventive measures, including detecting the disease, how to prevent it, treatment at home, and methods to eliminate larvae. If someone suspects they have dengue fever, they are advised to seek medical attention at a nearby facility immediately. VNS HA NOI The average income of people doing rural occupations will be 2.5-3 times higher than in 2020. It is one of the main targets of the rural careers development strategy until 2030, with a vision to 2045, which has been approved by Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang. The strategys general goal is to develop rural careers, promote the potential of rural areas, improve production and business efficiency, increase income, create jobs and raise the material life of the people. It aims at protecting the environment, preserving the landscape, enhancing traditions and national cultural identity. The strategy will push up rural economic development towards ecological agriculture, modern rural areas and farmers. It strives that the growth rate of rural occupations will be about 6-7 per cent per year by 2030. Enterprises can attract about five million regular workers in rural occupations. The export value of rural products will reach over US$6 billion per year. The rate of trained workers will be 80 per cent and the rate of being awarded degrees and certificates is 35 per cent. Localities will form stable raw material areas to meet 70 per cent of the rural industry developments requirement. Its expected that by 2045, rural occupations will contribute to the overall growth of the national economy, develop rural industries in the direction of sustainable, smart, and environmentally friendly growth. All will be associated with building green, clean, and beautiful rural spaces; preserving and intensifying the cultural, historical and traditional values of the region. Orientation The strategy provides development orientation for different groups including the group of processing and preserving agricultural, forestry and fishery products; handicraft production group; the group for handling and processing raw materials to serve rural production; the group for producing wooden furniture, rattan, ceramics, glass, textiles, yarn, embroidery, wicker and small mechanics; group for producing and trading ornamental animals; salt production group; and group for services. For groups of processing and preserving agricultural, forestry and fishery products, the strategy will increase the use of machinery and equipment, and apply technical advances and modern, environmentally friendly technology to production. It will improve chain production processes, ensure nutrition and food hygiene and safety, enhance product quality to increase competitiveness, expand product consumption markets for export. Regarding handicraft production group, the strategy targets to create new designs to suit demand of domestic and foreign consumers. It will strengthen links between handicraft villages, and combine raw materials regions to create new, unique, artistic and highly usable products. For groups of handling and processing raw materials for rural production, it is planned to improve processing facilities to create new raw materials, especially recycled materials, to replace imported ones. Preserve craft villages The orientation of preserving and developing craft villages is to focus on the ones that are at risk of disappearing. It will be close to tourism growth, building distribution channels and introducing craft village products. Professional associations and unions, innovation centres, businesses, and vocational training centres will be founded in localities. Regarding the domestic consumption market, the strategy will connect products with large cities, diversify services to meet increasing demand, and set up rural tourism and craft village tourism programmes. For the export market, it will increase products into common markets such as China, the US, Europe, Japan, Korea; and expand into new potential markets in the Middle East, Latin America and Africa. Competent agencies will urgently relocate polluting production facilities in residential areas to industrial zones and concentrated production zones. They will preserve rural landscapes together with eco-smart villages, ensuring green, clean, beautiful and environmentally friendly landscapes. Also under the strategy, related organisations will effectively deploy programmes to build new-style rural areas; diversify and push up the quality of tourism products; and promote traditional rural cultural values. VNS As an "earthen wonder built high in the sky", the Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba archipelago has officially been recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage. Considered a precious gem in the northern sea of Vietnam, Cat Ba Island (Hai Phong) and Ha Long Bay (Quang Ninh) are ideal destinations for those who love to explore. These two famous locations possess beautiful landscapes, pristine beaches, magnificent islands and caves. Therefore, Ha Long Bay and Cat Ba archipelago are always the top destinations in the Northern region and the whole country, attracting millions of visitors each year. Also read: Ha Long Bay, Cu Chi Tunnels among ten adventurous tourism places in Southeast Asia Vietnam News - Latest Updates and World Insights | Vietreader.com On September 16, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee recognized the Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba archipelago complex as a World Natural Heritage. This is also the first inter-provincial world heritage site in our country. Surely, anyone admires the landscape here once will be amazed at its magical beauty. Although belonging to two different provinces, the Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba archipelago is a unified block in the Gulf of Tonkin region. This population together owns 1,133 limestone islands of various shapes and sizes (including 775 limestone islands in Ha Long Bay and 358 limestone islands in Cat Ba Archipelago). On those rocky islands are lush vegetation covered with sharp limestone peaks rising above the sea surface, along with features of karst terrain creating a system of magnificent domes, caves and stalactites. This new natural heritage possesses magical beauty with sparkling jade water. The whole complex appears like "a chess board made of gems" on the sea. This place has lush, peaceful water and smooth, pristine white sand beaches. Possessing the largest maritime forest in Vietnam with an area of more than 17,000 hectares and up to 7 marine and island ecosystems, the Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba archipelago is considered a living "museum" of the Gulf of Tonkin region. Coming to Ha Long-Cat Ba, visitors can easily immerse themselves in the masterpieces that nature has bestowed on this place, where visitors can "go to the forest - to the sea" in just a few steps. If UNESCO recognized Ha Long Bay (Quang Ninh) as a World Natural Heritage twice (in 1994 and 2000) thanks to its unique landscape value, then Cat Ba archipelago, where many special values are concentrated, Special in ecology, geology - geomorphology, it is also famous for Cat Ba National Park, which UNESCO recognized as a World Biosphere Reserve (2004). Ha Long Bay and Cat Ba archipelago are always attractive destinations for domestic and foreign tourists. Each time, the scenery changes dramatically, making this complex more special than ever, so when visiting the northern heritage region of Vietnam, tourists will often choose to go on a Ha Long tour. - Cat Ba. The beauty of Ha Long Bay certainly "captures the hearts" of tourists at first sight. Seen from afar, Ha Long Bay under the hands of nature is as beautiful as a majestic, vast and peaceful watercolour painting. This place is like a wall on the sea with hundreds and thousands of boats leisurely sailing in the vast blue sea, adorning the interconnected rocky mountains. Famous "addresses" of Ha Long Bay are Trong Mai Island, Dinh Huong Island, and Ti Top Island... The most unique features of the bay are more than 60 beautiful caves of Sung Sot, Thien Cung, Dau Go, and Bo Nau ... In addition to exploring caves and enjoying cuisine with fresh seafood dishes, visitors can participate in many different experiences, such as swimming, diving, yachting, and kayaking. And sunrise at sea is one of the most beautiful moments visitors can hardly miss when arriving at the bay. Read more: Save now the latest updated self-sufficient Cat Ba travel experience Vietnam News - Latest Updates and World Insights | Vietreader.com Coming to Cat Ba Island, tourists will enjoy an attractive resort location with a rich ecosystem. Nearly half of the islands in Cat Ba have beaches, attracting many tourists when summer comes to immerse themselves in beautiful beaches with fine white sand. International tourists especially love fun activities such as scuba diving and spending the night on the bay. Especially the experience of trekking through Cat Ba National Park, exploring Lan Ha Bay, Monkey Island, and many unique terrains, flora and fauna here. It can be said that Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba archipelago is one of the ideal destinations that tourists cannot ignore. Certainly, with the title "natural heritage", this new complex promises to bring even more surprises soon. Hana Micron's second factory, also the first semiconductor factory in Northern Vietnam, has officially come into operation. According to experts, Vietnam is currently in the group of top countries that global semiconductor corporations are considering investing in. Inauguration of Hana Micron Vina's second factory in Bac Giang Recently, Hana Micron Vina Co., Ltd. inaugurated the Hana Micron Vina 2 Manufacturing Factory in Van Trung Industrial Park, Bac Giang province. It is known that Hana Micron is a Korean enterprise specializing in manufacturing and processing integrated circuit boards used for mobile phones and other smart electronic products. Also read: Semiconductor Manufacturing in Vietnam vs Taiwan Vietnam News - Latest Updates and World Insights | Vietreader.com This is Hana Micron Vina's second factory in Bac Giang. Previously, the company's first factory was completed and put into operation in 2022. Hana Micron decided to increase investment capital and build a second factory to meet market demand. With a total investment capital of nearly 600 million USD, the Hana Micron factory is currently one of the projects with the largest investment capital per hectare in Bac Giang, with about 90 million USD per hectare, 8 times higher than the average investment rate of other foreign investment projects in this province. Speaking at the event, Chairman of Hana Micron Group Choi Chang Ho said that the company plans to increase its investment capital to more than 1 billion USD by 2025. At that time, the factory's revenue was estimated to reach 800 million USD, creating jobs for more than 4,000 workers. Hana Micron Vina in Vietnam will be the number one production facility in the global business of Hana Micron Group. In particular, human resources recruited in Vietnam will account for 70% of the total human resources. According to the plan, Hana Micron's revenue in Bac Giang will reach about 300 million USD this year, 2023. According to Mr Choi Chang Ho, Hana Micron Vina always wants to develop a new semiconductor industry ecosystem in Vietnam, contributing to the diversity of innovative technologies and techniques that Vietnam follows. At the inauguration ceremony, Chairman of Bac Giang Provincial People's Committee Le Anh Duong highly appreciated Hana Micron's project, saying Hana Micron Vina factory is the first semiconductor manufacturing factory in the North. According to Mr. Duong, the effective implementation of the project will be the foundation for the development orientation of the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem in Bac Giang province in particular and Northern Vietnam in general. This is also an opportunity for Bac Giang province to attract more high-tech projects through the Government's policies and investment attraction strategies and the province's development orientation in the coming time. Vietnam with the prospect of attracting investment in the semiconductor industry According to Mr. Wade Cruse, Southeast Asia Managing Partner of Bain & Company (USA), Vietnam and India are promising destinations for attracting semiconductor investment. Currently, the country has 40 enterprises operating in semiconductor chips. Among them, there are 38 FDI enterprises and 2 large domestic enterprises. Also read: Vietnam emerges as semiconductor industry "Winner" as China falls behind in innovation Vietnam News - Latest Updates and World Insights | Vietreader.com In addition to Intel, with a 1.5 billion USD project in Ho Chi Minh City, Amkor Group has also built a 1.6 billion USD project in Bac Ninh, of which the investment amount for phase 1 is 500 million USD. It is expected that this factory will officially come into operation in early October. In addition, China's Victory Gain Technology Group also wants to invest in a $400 million semiconductor components project in Bac Ninh. Or Runergy New Energy Science and Technology Group has invested 440 million USD in Nghe An to produce semiconductor components, including silicon bars and semiconductor plates. Speaking at the 'Vietnam International Sourcing Expo 2023' held between September 13-15, Hoang Tri Mai, CEO of Airbus in Vietnam, said, "Vietnams development is a promising signal in the Asia-Pacific region, and Airbus is delighted to be a part of this journey." "We are working closely with domestic companies for new orders related to aerospace parts manufacturing, further expanding a supply chain that meets our highest standards of quality, safety, and sustainable development," Mai said. Mai emphasised Airbuss expectations from its partners, saying, "We are collaborating intensively with domestic suppliers to ensure the ramping up of aircraft production rates and strict adherence to post-sales service stipulations." Airbus also expects suppliers to uphold the sustainability ethos. "Suppliers must demonstrate a commitment to sustainability that aligns with Airbus' values," Mai added. Citing Airbus' partnerships, Mai pointed to collaborations such as Artus (Meggitt) Vietnam and Nikkiso Vietnam, which have proven instrumental in Airbus' operations in the country. Vietnam's airlines currently operate over 220 Airbus aircraft with another 110 in the pipeline, highlighting the significant impact the aviation giant has had on the sector, and in turn, the Vietnamese economy. Airbus eyes growth potential in military and space businesses in Vietnam In anticipation of the high growth potential in Vietnam, Airbus is accelerating its moves in its military and space businesses to meet the modernisation demands in the country. Sacombank eyes investment in Bamboo Airways amidst airline reshuffle Sacombank, one of Bamboo Airways' primary creditors, is considering an equity investment in the airline, signalling confidence in the airline's restructuring and future growth. Vietnam saw the flow of foreign direct investment (FDI) soar to its highest point in a decade last year, with over $20 billion invested, mainly from Japan, Singapore, and China. Many overseas firms are taking advantage of FTAs between their home market and Vietnam to set up sustainable garment and textile manufacturing facilities. Under the EUVietnam FTA, certain products exported from Vietnam to the EU will enjoy zero tariffs from this year. Among the 57 nations and territories with new projects in Vietnam this year, Singapore has been the largest investor, with $1.79 billion in the first six months alone. Sanbang PTE., Ltd leads the way among Singaporean investors with a record $28.7 million being pumped into a new plant specialising in manufacturing towels and woven fabrics. Sanbang chose Nam Dinh province in northern Vietnam, the cradle of Vietnams garment and textile industry, to build a factory with the full support of the local authorities to ensure the swift completion of all legal requirements for the projects deployment. Aurora industrial park (IP) in Nam Dinh, developed by local prominent real estate developer Cat Tuong Group, with the ambition of being a sustainable IP for the textiles sector, is set to be an ideal destination for Sanbangs factory. The Singaporean firm signed a lease for a 103,400 square-metre space in Aurora IP in August. Sanbang hopes to complete all necessary legal procedures to begin construction in the first quarter (Q1) of 2024. The factory will begin pre-production in Q3 of 2025 and official production from the following Q4. Annual production capacity is expected to reach 15,000 tonnes of towels, 14 million metres of woven fabric, and 15,000 tonnes of DTY yarn. Sanbang hopes to complete all necessary legal procedures in order to begin construction in the first quarter (Q1) of 2024. Oriented to be a green, clean, and sustainable industrial park with a well-balanced industrial ecological community, Aurora is one of the few IPs in Vietnam qualified to accommodate fabric-dyeing facilities. Its infrastructure is designed with one of the countrys largest wastewater treatment systems, with a capacity of 110,000 cubic metres each day. The water system is equipped with cutting-edge technology and environmentally friendly materials to ensure that state regulations on post-treatment water are observed as well as the water needs of secondary investors are met. Aurora IP is committed to the goal of becoming one of the top industrial parks in the country as it welcomes one of the most prestigious investors in the garments and textiles industry in the world, said Nguyen Van Tuan, standing vice chairman of the Board of Directors at Cat Tuong Group. The Aurora IP Project Management Board and contractors are currently accelerating the development of projects while progressing the park's infrastructure to completion, in compliance with international requirements. Construction and completion of component modules for the clean water treatment plant, wastewater treatment plant, and 110kV transformer station delivering power to the IP are among the infrastructure items that will be deployed actively in 2023. Leveraging the strengths of leading industrial real estate developer Cat Tuong Group as well as the favourable investment environment conditions, Aurora IP aims to be a bright spot attracting foreign manufacturers coming to Vietnam. Since it began operating in 2019, Aurora IP has signed a total of four land lease agreements worth more than $330 million with four high-tech foreign-invested enterprises, demonstrating its appeal and unique advantages. Singaporean interest in Vietnam flourishes Singaporean and regional investment in Vietnam is expected to thrive in the months to come, following a number of cooperation agreements and commitments reached by the two governments last week. Nam Dinh Vu Industrial Park set to welcome strategic investors Nam Dinh Vu, the only industrial park (IP) in Haiphong with an internal seaport, ample available land, and cutting-edge technical infrastructure, is ready to hail investors from major markets such as South Korea and Japan. On his visit to China's Guangxi, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on September 16 had important meetings with key stakeholders from China's major corporations. The discussions centred around potential investment opportunities in Vietnam's infrastructure sector, particularly the proposed Lao Cai - Ha Noi - Haiphong railway. During the engagements, PM Chinh welcomed chairman of the Executive Board of China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) Chen Yun and Wang Xiaojun, deputy general manager of PowerChina. Yun of CRCC expressed a strong interest in investing in railway projects that have been green lit by the Vietnamese government. "We are eager to participate in these initiatives," Chen said. Highlighting the global footprint of CRCC, PM Chinh said that the Vietnamese government encouraged foreign corporations, particularly those from China, to expand their investment and business operations in Vietnam. A central aspect of the discussions revolved around the potential construction of the Lao Cai - Hanoi - Haiphong railway, estimated to stretch around 388km. "Infrastructure development is a strategic breakthrough for us," PM Chinh said. He urged for immediate detailed discussions post-meeting with Vietnamese agencies like the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Planning and Investment, and the Commission for the Management of State Capital at Enterprises (CMSC). PM Chinh said, "The government will address issues within its jurisdiction. The spirit is to ensure progress, quality, safety, and environmental protection commitments made must be met with tangible effectiveness." Additionally, Xiaojun of PowerChina mentioned plans to invest in power projects and expressed interest in Vietnam's high-speed railway projects. The Vietnamese PM responded positively, recommending immediate viable solutions and collaboration. "The foundation of our cooperation in deploying infrastructure projects, including high-speed railways, lies in the strong bilateral ties between Vietnam and China. The key is effective implementation that benefits both states, the public, and businesses, while also sharing the associated risks," he said. Vietnam Railways Corporation is currently seeking opinions on preliminary planning for the Lao Cai - Hanoi - Haiphong - Quang Ninh railway line, conceived by domestic consultants. This railway, spanning over 441km, is planned up to 2030 with a vision to 2050. It is set to start at Hekou, China, in Lao Cai and traverses multiple provinces before concluding at Cai Lan Port in Quang Ninh. CRCC, known globally for its construction expertise across various sectors, currently operates with 381 branches in 105 countries and 290,000 employees. In Vietnam, CRCC served as the main contractor for Hanoi's urban rail project, the Cat Linh-Ha Dong line, boasting an EPC (engineering, procurement, contruction) contract value of $640 million. It is also linked to the Dak Nong wind power project with a contract value of $18.1 million, and a tyre factory project in Tien Giang province valued at $5 million. Having penetrated the Vietnamese market in 2000, PowerChina was involved in constructing the Lai Chau and Son La hydropower plants, as well as the Vinh Tan coastal thermal power centre. They have also been the main contractor for wind and solar projects with a total capacity of 7GW. The cumulative contract value of these endeavours surpasses $6.5 billion. PowerChina's integrated capabilities span investment and financing, planning design, technical construction, equipment production, and operational management, particularly in clean and low-carbon energy, water resources, environmental, and infrastructure sectors. In 2022, the corporation ranked 100th on the Fortune Global 500 list and 29th among China's Top 500 enterprises. Vietnams infrastructure luring Chinese investment With wider activities taking place involving the markets of China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, their investors are looking at potential infrastructure opportunities throughout Vietnam. Vietnam's energy sector sparks interest from Chinese corporations The energy sector in Vietnam has piqued the interest of Chinese corporations, paving the way for collaborations and potential investments in renewable energy projects. Chinese battery firm Gotion invests $150 million in VinFast Chinese battery manufacturer Gotion Inc. has agreed to acquire 15 million ordinary shares of VinFast through a private issuance valuing the shares at $10 apiece, with an investment totalling $150 million, representing 0.7 per cent of VinFast's total equity. Photo: bnews.vn Kris Peeter, deputy chairman and member of the EIBs Management Committee, led the European delegation in discussions with Dang Hoang An, chairman of EVN on September 8. "The partnership between EVN and the EIB has been commendable over the years," Peeter said. He also noted the EIBs current role alongside other financial contributors in supporting a non-government guaranteed loan for EVNs Bac Ai hydroelectric storage plant project. Highlighting the banks broader aspirations, Peeter said, We wish to assist and collaborate with EVN in the quest to develop offshore wind energy in Vietnam. Such ventures resonate with global efforts to combat climate change and the consequent paradigm shift towards green energy. In response, An shed light on Vietnam's proactive transition to green energy, outlining EVN's pivotal role in the initiative. "According to the latest power plan, Vietnam aims to harness 6,000 MW of offshore wind energy capacity by 2030," he said. Emphasising the ambitious roadmap, An expressed hope for technical assistance and favourable loan terms from the EIB, which would aid EVNs expansion of offshore wind systems and other renewable energy projects in the country. During their deliberations, the two parties also discussed a slew of potential collaborative endeavours. These included accelerating loan negotiations for the Bac Ai project, an introduction to EIB's 'Global Gateway' initiative, and potential collaboration on electric grid transmission and distribution projects. It's worth noting the stature of the European Investment Bank in global financial circles. Operating as the lending institution of the European Union with 27 member countries as shareholders, the EIB stands as the world's largest multilateral financial institution and ranks among the top financiers of climate adaptation projects. To cement their shared objectives, EVN and EIB previously signed an MoU in December 2022. This paved the way for EIB to offer direct financial support to power projects in Vietnam, thereby enhancing partnerships across various sectors - from power generation, transmission, and distribution to retail electricity. It also underscores a mutual commitment to the transition towards net-zero emissions. T&T Group, KOGAS, and SK E&S forge collaboration on LNG and hydrogen projects A partnership between T&T Group, Korea Gas Corporation (KOGAS), and SK E&S is paving the way for joint initiatives on liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure, nationwide supply chains, and hydrogen production, contributing to Vietnam's energy transition and sustainable development goals. Bac Lieus wind power farm: A must-see destination for sunset lovers Bac Lieu leads the way in the Mekong Delta and around Vietnam in the development of offshore wind power projects. Visitors to the southern land can experience the stunning beauty of its wind power farm at sunset. A seasoned legal professional with a 25-year track record spanning Europe, the United States, and Asia-Pacific, Jaworska promises to augment the firms standing with her vast experience. She is a recognised figure in the legal sector, having been admitted to the Bar in Poland and holding the title of foreign lawyer in Vietnam, while also being a licensed legal consultant in the district of Columbia. Furthermore, she holds a master's degree in law from Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Poland, and an LL.M. from Georgetown University Law Center in Washington DC, in the US. Having practised in Vietnam since 2019, Jaworska possesses a profound understanding of the intricacies of international transactions. Her experience, combined with her strategic approach and problem-solving skills, makes her an invaluable asset to the firm and its clients. Jaworska's diverse expertise spans multiple industries, including energy, banking and fintech, logistics, manufacturing, fast-moving consumer goods, healthcare, pharma, and digital services. She has worked extensively with multinational clients in the acquisition and development of wind farms and photovoltaic projects. In addition to her M&A and project finance specialisation, Jaworska is adept in data privacy law under both the EU's GDPR and Asia-Pacific frameworks, including the latest Vietnamese data protection regulations. Before joining Dentons LuatViet, Jaworska was a partner at an international law firm based in the Washington DC and a partner at PwC Legal in Vietnam, PwC CEE, and PwC in Poland. We are truly honoured to welcome Eva to Dentons LuatViet. Her 25 years of global legal expertise will greatly enrich our firm. Her profound understanding of both international and Vietnamese legal landscapes is unparalleled. As a global-local law firm and a proud member of Dentons the world's largest law firm with offices in over 80 countries we bring international standards to the table and possess profound insights and expertise in the local market, said Tran Duy Canh, managing partner at Dentons LuatViet. We are confident that with the addition of Eva to our team we will achieve greater excellence, solidifying our position at the forefront of the legal industry and maximising benefits for our clients, Canh added. I am excited to join Dentons LuatViet and be part of the fastest growing law firm in Vietnam. Together with our partners and experienced team of over 50 legal professionals, we are devoted to providing our clients with the cutting-edge legal solutions that allow them to grow their business in Vietnam effectively, said Jaworska. World's largest law firm to combine with LuatViet in Vietnam Dentons, the world's largest law firm, has announced a combination with leading Vietnamese law firm, LuatViet. This will give Dentons a presence in the key locations of Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Gerald Singham, global Vice-chair and CEO of Dentons ASEAN region shared with VIRs Thanh Van about the combination and Dentons vision for the Vietnamese market. FPT University Truong Gia Binh, chairman of FPT, expressed confidence in Vietnam's capacity to forge a formidable stance in the AI sector. "Vietnam, much like FPT, possesses an inherent potential to undergo even more rapid development in the digital technology sector," Binh said. FPT has also revealed a partnership with US-based Landing AI. Furthermore, discussions have been initiated with AI powerhouse Nvidia and other Vietnamese enterprises to harness AI for cloud storage, healthcare, and diverse applications. In an interview with Reuters, Binh shed light on emerging opportunities predominantly in the semiconductor space, stemming from the CHIPS Act passed by the US last year. This is a game-changer, he said. He believes that it paves the way for international partners, alongside China, to expand development capabilities. The US' commitment to propelling Vietnam's chip sector is a testament to this. While FPT had previously announced orders for over 25 million chips by 2025, Binh disclosed a revised figure of 67 million for the same period. These chips, intended for clients in Taiwan, South Korea, and Japan, will cater to the medical equipment domain and various electronic applications. In a recent interview with local media Tuoitre, Tran Van Khoa, CEO of FPT Group, said, "In the tech sector, Vietnam is rapidly emerging as a global contender, especially in the semiconductor battleground. The production of chips requires advanced technology and specific raw materials, notably inert gases and rare earth elements. While traditionally dominated by exporters like China and Russia, the shifting geopolitical dynamics have spotlighted Vietnam's untapped reserves of these rare earths." Counter to the prevailing trend wherein most assembly of products in Vietnam relies on technology sourced from other developed nations, FPT's chips are designed and manufactured either in South Korea or Taiwan. This represents an inverse supply chain approach compared to tech giants like South Korea's Samsung, which assembles nearly half of its smartphones in Vietnam. Binh envisaged the possibility of relocating chip manufacturing operations to Vietnam within the next five years, citing escalating interest and the potential to entice foreign investments for establishing Vietnam's maiden chip manufacturing plant. Binh remarked that FPT's current expansion strategy did not encompass a public listing in the US. "Perhaps someday," he said, noting the absence of any concrete plans at present. FPT boasts a US revenue ranging between $250 million to $300 million annually, aiming to amplify this figure to $1 billion by 2030. "A US listing might only be contemplated once we achieve a more significant scale and will also hinge upon customer demand," Binh said. Meanwhile, Khoa noted that this year, FPT aims to reach a revenue milestone of $1 billion solely from international markets. "We are in the final stretch, striving to accrue $1 billion in revenue from executed contracts overseas, which is made from Vietnamese intellect. And soon enough, we'll be racing towards the $2 billion mark," he said. Highlighting a need for more significant investments in educational services, Binh shared that FPT has already onboarded thousands of students in its education sector. The firm aspires to maximise training output in Vietnam's chip engineering workforce, which experts reckon needs to decouple in the forthcoming decade, reaching a workforce of 50,000. Binh also voiced his readiness to spearhead this initiative, expressing hope that the US would offer more than the funding announced earlier this week as bilateral relations with Vietnam are elevated. JPMorgan predicts that FPT University could enrol up to 200,000 students by 2025, a substantial leap from nearly half that figure last year. On the other hand, in late August, there were some rumours regarding FPT's alleged plans to issue shares to foreign investors at a price of VND140,000 ($5.91) per share. Speaking to VIR, Nguyen The Phuong, deputy CEO of FPT said, "These speculations are baseless. At present, we have no plans for any capital mobilisation involving foreign investors for either FPT or FSoft." FPT Smart Cloud and Home Credit harness AI Innovation Lab Through the transformative power of the AI Innovation Lab, FPT Smart Cloud and Home Credit Vietnam have dramatically reshaped the financial sector's customer service landscape, achieving remarkable strides in operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and employee workload reduction by harnessing the potential of AI and cloud applications. Vietnam and US companies collaborate on semiconductors and innovation High-level meetings between the US and Vietnam have paved the way for a strategic partnership focusing on the technology sector, with semiconductors and innovation at the forefront. FPT to inject $100 million into the US by year-end FPT Corporation has plans to invest $100 million into the US market by the end of this year and is calling on the US government to foster the growth of Vietnam's semiconductor ecosystem. The Independence Palace, Ho Chi Minh City Contributing to approximately one-fifth of the nation's GDP and over a quarter of the national budget, Ho Chi Minh City stands as a vital cog in the Vietnamese economic machinery. Moreover, the city attracts the lion's share of the nation's foreign direct investment (FDI) and controls a formidable 30 per cent of the country's businesses. However, its accomplishments come with an environmental caveat; it emits the highest greenhouse gases in Vietnam, totalling 57.6 million tonnes, making up 23.3 per cent of the country's emissions, said Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai during the fourth Ho Chi Minh City Economic Forum on September 15, 2023. "At its core, the city's economy has progressed linearly without adequate greening. While there have been significant strides in environmental conservation, many concerns remain and more proactive steps are necessary," the DPM added. DPM Khai emphasised three primary areas of focus for the forum: shared learning and collective action, financial and technological collaborations, and post-forum continuity. Khai appealed to relevant departments to listen, discuss and learn from the experiences and proposals of businesses. Special attention was directed towards urban characteristics, population scale, and the dynamic nature of the Ho Chi Minh City economy, making it an ideal testing ground for policies promoting a green and circular economy. Businesses see this as a prime opportunity to re-evaluate traditional business models, approach new business ventures, and boldly collaborate and marshal resources for the long term. "The citizen's awareness plays a pivotal role. After the forum, there's a need for more detailed, understandable, and relevant information dissemination, aiming to genuinely shift towards green consumption, energy conservation, environmental protection, and a future sustainable economy," he said. During the forum's inauguration, Secretary Ho Chi Minh City's Party Committee Nguyen Van Nen highlighted significant global challenges faced by Ho Chi Minh City and many other cities, ranging from climate change and traffic congestion, to environmental issues. In building a new trajectory towards sustainable growth, Ho Chi Minh City is diligently drafting a green economic development strategy up to 2030, and beyond. It places citizens and businesses at the heart of this transformation. There's a concentrated focus on developing green resources, infrastructure, behaviours, and pioneering sectors. "Following the forum, the city will consider expert opinions and learn from experienced countries to swiftly refine its strategic framework and implementation plans. Emphasis is also being laid on bolstering investment in renewable energy, reducing greenhouse effects, and developing green public transportation systems. The city is initiating measures to create a conducive environment for businesses to join hands in building a green-growing economy towards net-zero emissions," Nen said. ADB agrees $13.8-million loan with GreenYellow The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has inked a $13.8 million loan agreement with GreenYellow Smart Solutions Vietnam to support the installation of rooftop photovoltaic (PV) solar systems in Vietnam. Citi highlights green finance at CEO 100 meeting Citi's Vietnam country officer Ramachandran A.S. delivered a speech focusing on financial solutions to support green growth and sustainable business at an investment event that gathered 100 CEOs from major global corporations. In a recent dialogue held on September 16 in Guangxi, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh met with key figures from some of China's most prominent corporations, among whom was Simon Lin, chairman of the Asia-Pacific region for Huawei Technologies. During the interaction, Lin conveyed Huawei's keen interest in improving Vietnam's digital infrastructure. He outlined the tech giant's ambition to accelerate digitalisation across sectors, reduce carbon emissions, and facilitate intelligent digital transformations. "We are deeply committed to aiding Vietnam in its energy transition towards a greener future and establishing a thriving digital talent ecosystem in the country," Lin stated. Founded in 1987 in Shenzhen, Huawei operates in the realms of ICT infrastructure, digital energy, cloud computing, and end-user devices. Boasting a workforce of 207,000, over half of whom are engaged in research and development (R&D), the company serves more than three billion people globally across over 170 countries. With a commendable half-yearly revenue of just under $43 billion for 2023, Huawei is reportedly the world's fourth-largest investor in R&D. In Vietnam, Huawei has been a significant collaborator with telecommunication carriers, contributing to the construction of the 2G, 3G, and 4G networks. The corporation has partnered with hundreds of Vietnamese entities, creating tens of thousands of jobs in the ICT sector and training over 18,000 Vietnamese digital technical personnel. PM Chinh welcomed Huawei's proposals and firmly backed the conglomerate's investment initiatives in Vietnam. "Digital transformation in Vietnam has vast potential with untapped opportunities. We see ample space for corporations like Huawei to operate, invest, and collaborate here," said Chinh. As emerging technologies continue to revolutionise industries and as competition intensifies, the PM emphasised the importance of collaboration between the private sector and local authorities to improve Vietnam's digital society and economy. "These improvements should include R&D activities, policy feedback, personnel training, and modern management capability enhancements," he said. Chinese battery firm Gotion invests $150 million in VinFast Chinese battery manufacturer Gotion Inc. has agreed to acquire 15 million ordinary shares of VinFast through a private issuance valuing the shares at $10 apiece, with an investment totalling $150 million, representing 0.7 per cent of VinFast's total equity. Minister of Investment, Head of the Indonesia Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) Bahlil Lahadalia (left) accompanies President Jokowi (2nd left) on a visit to the electric vehicle battery production facility owned by PT HLI Hyundai LG Indonesia) Green Power in Karawang, West Java, on September 14, 2023. (Source: antaranews.com) Jakarta Indonesian President Joko Widodo on September 14 announced that a battery plant for electric vehicles (EV) in Karawang, West Java, is expected to become the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia. The factory is jointly owned by two Korean firms, namely Hyundai and LG, and is operated through their joint venture, Hyundai LG Industry (HLI) Green Power. With production scheduled to commence in early next year, the plant is expected to have a capacity of 30 million battery cells, sufficient for the production of an estimated 180,000 electric vehicles. Speaking during a visit to the plant, Widodo emphasised that the establishment of the plant aligns with Indonesias ambitions to become the largest EV ecosystem in Southeast Asia and a crucial player in the global EV supply chain. He further hinted at the potential for other countries to rely on Indonesia for their battery cell supplies once the country is fully integrated into the global supply chain. Minister of Investment Bahlil Lahadalia revealed that HLI Green Power has already initiated trial production at the factory, which was constructed two years ago. He confirmed that actual production is slated to commence from March 2024 and that the factory, upon completion, will have an installed capacity of 30 GWh. 43rd ASEAN Summit concludes in Indonesia The 43rd ASEAN Summit and related summits wrapped up in Jakarta, Indonesia on September 7 afternoon. Indonesia mulls importing rice from many countries Indonesian President Joko Widodo said on September 11 that the country is eyeing rice imports from India and China to meet the rising domestic demand. The Central Highlands is considered a strategic region, playing an important role in Vietnams political and economic development. That is why, in recent years, the Party and the government have paid special attention to the region. With that, many important incentives and supported policies have been issued to boost the Central Highlands and make breakthrough changes. Infrastructure rejuvenation to light up Central Highlands According to the Ministry of Transport (MoT), the total capital required for transport infrastructure in the region this decade is around VND156 trillion ($6.6 billion). Besides upgrading current national highways, the MoT will coordinate with relevant agencies to mobilise financing to invest in a modern highway system with higher capacity and speed to connect the Central Highlands with the south-central coast provinces and the entire development triangle area of Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. Accordingly, the government assigned around VND11.7 trillion ($490 million) for 2021-2025 to localities in the Central Highlands to implement targeted programmes to double the average income of tribal people, and reduce poverty in over 60 per cent of underprivileged communes and villages. Up to now, the economic scale of the region has increased rapidly, more than 14 times higher than in 2002 and 3.1 times higher than in 2010. The average growth rate of regional GDP is nearly 8 per cent per year, the growth rates of all economic sectors are the highest compared to other regions. Regional GDP per capita reached over VND48 million ($2,000), over 10 times higher than in 2002. To boost socioeconomic development in the Central Highlands region, last year the Politburo issued Resolution No.23-NQ/TW. In terms of economic development, the resolution requires accelerating regional economic growth, taking agricultural and forestry development as the focus and the mainstay; processing industry development as a driving force; and improving tourism development. Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong said that the resolution has inherited previous resolution viewpoints and is consistent with the new context and situation. The Central Highlands region has a particularly important strategic role. Rapid and sustainable development of the Central Highlands is a major policy of the Party and the state, and is a central, cross-cutting task with important significance for the development of localities in the region and the whole country, General Secretary Trong said. The goal is that by 2030 with a vision to 2045, the Central Highlands will become a region of sustainable development, with a green and circular economy. A global approach At the end of 2022, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh pointed out the reasons why the region has not developed as planned so far: underdeveloped infrastructure, especially in transportation, healthcare, and education. The Central Highlands also lacks both human resources and financial resources. Recently, the Central Highlands has mainly relied on state investment resources, but resources from businesses and investors are still limited, PM Chinh said. In addition, the lack of intra-regional, inter-regional, and international connectivity is also why the regions development is inadequate to its potential. Along with that, it has not yet built up national and international brands. According to the PMs direction, the Central Highlands must be self-reliant, using internal resources as the fulcrum and external resources as the breakthrough. At the same time, taking people and businesses as the centre and driving force for development. There must be a global, all-people approach to development, the prime minister said. The Central Highlands must develop breakthroughs, covering all subjects and industries, developing comprehensively but must be sustainable. The gap between rich and poor must be narrowed, ensuring social security and leaving no-one behind. The Central Highlands has set 20 specific socioeconomic and environmental targets to strive to achieve by 2030. Among them, there are a number of important targets - for example, the average growth in 2021-2030 will reach about 7-7.5 per cent; and regional GDP per capita reaches about VND130 million ($5,500) per year. The action programme has also set out 23 specific tasks and nine connected transport infrastructure and projects and assigned them to ministries, branches, and localities to implement, with a specific timeline. Now, many important transportation projects have been activated. The most prominent of which are horizontal transport projects connecting the Central Highlands provinces with the delta. Several months ago, Dak Lak Peoples Committee coordinated with the MoT to start construction on Khanh Hoa-Buon Ma Thuot Expressway. Phase 1 of the project has a total length of about 117.5km, with total investment for all phases coming to nearly $928 million. Chairman of Dak Lak Peoples Committee Pham Ngoc Nghi said that the project has strategic significance to importantly contribute to strengthening the regions economic and social development, ensuring national defence and security. Lam Dong province is boosting the Tan Phu-Bao Loc Expressway project and wants to launch it imminently. The project has a length of about 66km and costs around VND17 trillion ($726 million). Similarly, the Bao Loc-Lien Khuong section, running 74km long and costing more than VND19 trillion ($800 million) is also being urgently promoted by the province to launch construction in early 2024. The Gia Nghia (Dak Nong province) to Chon Thanh (Binh Phuoc province) Expressway project was also approved in June, in the form of a public-private partnership (PPP). The project has a length of about 127km and belongs to the western portion of the North-South Expressway project. It will likely cost over VND26 trillion ($1 billion). Le Trong Yen, Deputy Chairman of Dak Nong Peoples Committee, said, Gia Nghia-Chon Thanh Expressway is an urgent project and a lever to develop the provinces aluminum industry, high-tech agriculture, and tourism. Besides that, the project also contributes to linking the strengths of the Central Highlands with the southeast region and Ho Chi Minh City, creating a breakthrough for the province to develop fast and sustainably. Coordinating to improve Also related to investment in the roads connecting the Central Highlands, the draft planning of Danang also proposes to add the expressway connecting Danang, Thach My, Ngoc Hoi, and Bo Y into planning for the period after 2030. Previously, the MoT sent a document to the peoples committees of Quang Ngai and Kon Tum provinces on supplementing the Quang Ngai-Kon Tum Expressway planning. This will eventually connect the two through National Highway No.24, Quang Ngai-Quang Nam and Danang-Ngoc Hoi expressways. In addition to the above routes, Binh Dinh province has also been promoting investment in a highway connecting its Quy Nhon city with Gia Lai province. This project is not only an important trade door for the entire Central Highlands, but also further out to Cambodia and Laos. Meanwhile, Ninh Thuan coordinated with Lam Dong province last year to propose restoring the Thap Cham-Dalat railway. This project was proposed by Bach Dang Hotel Service and Trading JSC with a total capital of VND25 trillion ($1.05 billion). This enterprise has submitted a pre-feasibility study report to the MoT for the project in the form of a PPP. The railway would pass through Phan Rang city of Ninh Thuan province and Don Duong district of Dalat, and would be over 83km long. It is expected to have 16 stations and use diesel locomotives as well as light-duty carriages. The project includes restoring or building 64 bridges, five tunnels, 11 stations, and building upper structures. Secondly would come an upgrade of the route from Trai Mat station to Dalat Station, which is currently already in operation, followed by restoring and preserving Dalat and Trai Mat stations. Huge transport investment expected to vitalise central regions More than $4.34 billion are to be put into expanding the national highway network from 2021 to 2025, which is expected to create a turnaround to transport infrastructure development in the central regions. European firms interested in various sectors in Central Highlands: EuroCham leader Tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy, which have high potential in the Central Highlands, are sectors that European enterprises are interested in, said Alain Cany, President of the European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham). About 40 Japanese investors and large businesses met with Vietnamese startups at the Startups Connecting HUB - Pitch & Meet, hosted by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) in Hanoi last week. Participants at the gathering. Photo: JETRO Hanoi Ogata Ryosuke, general manager of the Hanoi Representative Office of Mitsubishi Research Institute, Inc. joined the event for the first time as he anticipates growing investment chances in the local startup ecosystem. We have investment track-record in Japan, but not in Vietnam yet. We focus on startups that create social impact. In Vietnam, there are a lot of social issues that must be tackled such as healthcare, education, traffic, and pollution, he told VIR. Japan has already experienced in resolving such issues so we can utilise our experience for building startups ecosystem in Vietnam. Do Bui, founding partner and CEO of ThinkZone, sees more Japanese companies eying the local startup ecosystem because they are more active and market conditions are more attractive in terms of rising average income, rising the middle class, and the governments new incentives. Traditionally, Japanese investors look at major businesses in Vietnam in banking and finance, energy, and real estate. When the business climate becomes more favourable, new investments to expand the Japanese ecosystem here are targeted in other sectors like technology in order to strengthen Japanese links, Bui said. We have worked with many Japanese bankers and companies who expect to bring Vietnamese startups to go public in Japan. Many unicorn startups from Vietnam are backed by Japanese financiers, such as VNPay and Momo. I believe that Japanese funding will continue to flow into local startups, he added. According to JETRO, since 2020, the organisation has hosted 30 webinars connecting Japanese funders and Vietnamese startups. Each event has attracted about 200 Japanese groups on average. This year, the event was hosted offline for the first time as investors said that at the final stage, they need to meet personally to build trust. Takeo Nakajima, chief representative of JETRO Hanoi, admitted that while Vietnamese startups are not so well known among some Japanese people, particularly in the business community, with Vietnam more renowned for its manufacturing base. In terms of startup investment, Vietnam is still in the developing stage in ASEAN. Singapore is the largest startup ecosystem and the investment market, and next is maybe Indonesia. Vietnam is getting attention as a next innovation hub in ASEAN so that Japanese firms should pay attention to here so that they will not miss the opportunity, he said. In terms of sectors and industries, Japanese funders eye many different sectors like education, healthcare, the environment, and transportation, he added. And I believe healthcare is the next big thing. There are many business opportunities for Japanese international investors to delve into. Founded six years ago, Finhay is a new player and has received financing from the Japanese. Chief marketing officer Huong Vu said, I find that more Japanese ventures are coming to Vietnam. Finhay has been performed well, and we target to work with more Japanese partners in the future to enable us to become the most popular investment app in Vietnam, with revenue and profit growth of 20-30 per cent annually. Do Bui of ThinkZone noted that the governments new incentives for investment in technology and innovation are being put on trial in Ho Chi Minh City, simplifying the investment process and opening a flexible investment structure. They are expected to be applied in other cities and provinces in the upcoming time. Nevertheless, the legal framework for investment in startups is also being discussed. Nakajima of JETRO Hanoi elaborated that there are still unclear regulations. For example, remote healthcare, diagnosis, and treatment is not regulated clearly. Another area is the next generation of transportation. In advanced countries, many cities have started allowing drones for deliveries under a certain circumstance to foster innovation, he said. Some countries in Asia, policies are much more advanced, Nakajima explained, while expecting that new frameworks of innovation can reach its potential in Vietnam. To facilitate Japanese financiers interest and movements, JETRO plans to host a similar event this month in Ho Chi Minh City and a larger one in November, inviting many VIPs as well as major Japanese and Vietnamese corporations. Japanese investors weigh up options Although Japanese manufacturers may be planning to cut production abroad over the next few years, some groups are being encouraged to increase focus on the Global South to increase security and take advantage of new business environments. Japanese investors wont shy from possible M&As Despite market turbulence, Japanese investors are stepping up their mergers and acquisitions in Vietnam in 2023 with increasing deal values. Masataka Sam Yoshida, head of the Cross-border Division of RECOF Corporation, spoke with VIRs Thanh Van about dealmaking activities involving Japanese investors in Vietnam. Historic support enters new phase for Japan and Vietnam Japans investment in Vietnams new sectors will expand thanks to a new scheme currently under discussion, expected to help increase bilateral trade. The Vietnams 50 Best Performing Companies ranking is highly regarded annual assessment undertaken by Nhip Cau Dau Tu in partnership with Thien Viet Securities Company. It is guided by the insights of leading economic and business experts from Harvard Business School. The aim of this ranking is to identify and commend companies operating on the Vietnamese stock market that exhibit remarkable effectiveness and performance. The Top 50 ranking methodology involves a comprehensive assessment of companies' performance over a three-year period, focusing on three key growth indicators: revenue, return on equity (ROE), and return on shares. These measurements are designed to provide an objective evaluation of the management capabilities of each enterprise. Over the course of 12 successful years (2010-2023), the ranking has consistently conducted surveys and rankings. The 2023 announcement ceremony stands as a distinguished event dedicated to honouring companies with significant scale, substantial capitalisation, and impressive growth rates. 10 years in Vietnams 50 Best Performing Companies In this year's ranking, entities have demonstrated their prowess across a spectrum of vital economic domains, including but not limited to retail, consumer goods, banking, manufacturing, and export. As an illustrative case, the Masan Group has garnered accolades in two distinguished categories: Vietnams 50 Best Performing Companies and "Billion Dollar Enterprise 2023." Remarkably, this marks the 10th occasion that Masan Group has earned a spot since 2011. With more than 27 years of growth, Masan Group stands as the leading enterprise in Vietnam's consumer and retail sector. Currently, Masan operates a network exceeding 3,500 sales outlets' quality, catering to vital consumer requirements. The group further champions inventive strategies and technological investments, fostering the creation of diverse, top-tier products to meet domestic demands and facilitate exports to key markets including the United States, Japan, Australia, Korea, and Canada. In the first half of 2023, Masan recorded total assets of around VND140.85 trillion ($5.8 billion), with total equity amounting to VND37.52 trillion ($1.55 billion). Notably, cash and cash equivalents totalled $554.29 million. Furthermore, during the second quarter of 2023, the company's free cash flow displayed consistent improvement, surging to $68.41 million in comparison to a mere $6.6 million during the same period in 2022. During the initial six months of 2023, Masan demonstrated resilience in its business performance, navigating through the challenging macroeconomic landscape. Masan achieved a net revenue of $1.54 billion during this period, reflecting a remarkable 3.6 per cent surge from the $1.48 billion achieved in the corresponding span of 2022. The operating profit of The CrownX (TCX), Masan's integrated retail consumer platform, which Masan Consolidated WinCommerce (WCM) and Masan Consumer Holdings (MCH), experienced a remarkable year-year-year growth of 38.8 per cent. This exceptional progress was underpinned by the robust underpinnings of its consumer goods enterprise. Held in high regard by top global institutions In a recent development, J.P. Morgan, a venerable and globally renowned firm specialising in financial services, investment banking, and asset management, has provided a forward-looking projection for the growth prospects of Masan shares. J.P. Morgan's forecast indicates that the target price for MSN shares in the year 2024 is anticipated to be at VND102,000 per share. Furthermore, they anticipate an average annual compound EPS growth of 36 per cent from 2023 to 2025. "Vietnam stands out as the most captivating and extraordinary narrative of consumer growth within the Asian region," said J.P. Morgan in a recent report. Furthermore, J.P. Morgan offered an optimistic perspective on Vietnamese consumer stocks over the next twelve months. According to their evaluation, the consumer retail market in Vietnam is poised for substantial growth, propelled by the nation's rapidly expanding economy, the burgeoning middle-class population, and the accelerating trend of urbanisation. As per J.P. Morgan's analysis, Masan shares have assumed a prominent role in representing Vietnam's alluring consumption narrative, owing to their prominent standing in a substantial and promising retail market. Masan's strategic capital allocation efforts, which prioritise key areas of consumption, retail, and the advancement of the existing consumer market, further bolster their position as a standout example of Vietnam's compelling consumption narrative. Despite a demanding macroeconomic environment and sluggish domestic consumption, Masan managed to attain growth and secured its place within the esteemed "Top 50 Most Effective Companies in Vietnam" list, earning accolades from prominent global organisations. Masan Group named one of the Best Companies to Work for in Asia At the HR Asia Awards ceremony, Masan Group was honoured as one of the Best Companies to Work for in Asia. At the same time, the company also won the special award category of HR Asia Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Masan Group maintains strong standing in Forbes list Masan Group was recognised during Forbes Magazine's "2023 Top 50 Listed Companies" event in Ho Chi Minh City on August 17, marking the 11th consecutive year for the group. A talk show between the Vietnamese Embassy in Japan and organisations, associations. (Photo: VNA) Tokyo The Vietnamese Embassy in Japan on September 16 held a gathering to mark the 78th anniversary of Vietnam's National Day (September 2, 1945 2023) and a talk show on measures to further develop the Vietnamese community in Japan. Speaking at the event, Ambassador Pham Quang Hieu said that the relations between Vietnam and Japan are developing better than ever in areas. The 500,000-strong overseas Vietnamese community in Japan is also growing and contributes practically to the two countries relations, he said. At the talk show with representatives from the Vietnamese community, organisations, and associations in Japan, Hieu called on the Vietnamese associations and organisations to actively promote their role as a bridge connecting overseas Vietnamese people and diplomatic offices. Representatives of Vietnamese organisations and associations in Japan shared information about the situation as well as proposed solutions to improve the quality of life of overseas Vietnamese people in Japan. They particularly emphasised the interactions between the Vietnamese diplomatic representative agencies and the community directly or indirectly, for example when handling administrative procedures or implementing community connection activities. Japan"s Tokyu Group keen on further promoting cooperation with Binh Duong Japan's Tokyu Group Chairman Nomoto Hirofumi has pledged to continue cooperating and sharing its 100-year experience with the southern province of Binh Duong to turn the locality into a green, smart and worth-living city. Illustartive photo (Source: thethaiger.com) Bangkok - Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has directed Public Health Minister Dr Cholnan Srikaew to establish a committee aimed at improving services within the universal healthcare programme. The objective is to streamline healthcare access for the public, including the elimination of the current requirement that patients must visit their designated hospitals first for medical care. The new committee will focus on digitising the referral process, reducing paperwork, and facilitating the transfer of patients to other hospitals when necessary. Patients will still require a referral document, but the process will become more efficient. Efforts to minimise hospital wait times and enable medication delivery to patients without requiring in-person visits to hospitals are also part of the plan to enhance convenience and reduce healthcare costs. The proposed changes will grant patients the flexibility to seek care at any hospital of their choice, similar to individuals with private health insurance policies. The goal is to create a patient-centric healthcare service. Dr Cholnan said the policy guidelines, divided into 13 groups for implementation, align with the Prime Ministers efficiency-focused health policy. A committee dedicated to the development of the national health system will also be formed, chaired by the Prime Minister and led by Dr Surapong Suebwonglee as its secretary. The Public Health minister added that he plans to discuss with the Civil Service Commission (CSC) to push for a special law that will address its workforce needs while allowing it more flexibility than existing CSC regulations. Thailand intensifies efforts to mitigate El Nino effects Thailands government is stepping up efforts to address concerns about decreased rainfall and drought caused by the El Nino weather phenomenon that is affecting the country's agricultural sector. Thailand urges tuberculosis screening to prevent spread In an attempt to prevent the spread of tuberculosis (TB) in the community, Thailands Department of Disease Control (DDC) is urging the public to get screened for the disease, especially individuals with underlying medical conditions. Illustrative image (Source: aseanbriefing.com) Bangkok - Thailand is preparing to embark on talks on a free-trade agreement with the EU with the aim of concluding the deal within two years. Auramon Supthaweethum, Director-General of the Department of Trade Negotiations under the Commerce Ministry, the ministry is preparing to lead a team of state agencies to negotiate the first round of the EU-Thailand FTA, scheduled for Sept 18-22 in Brussels, Belgium. This will include meetings at the head of delegation level and 19 expert-level subcommittee meetings. The Institute of Future Studies for Development, which has conducted a preliminary assessment of the benefits and impacts of the EU-Thailand FTA, expects it to expand Thailand's GDP by 1.28 per cent annually, increase exports by 2.83 per cent annually, and raise imports by 2.81 per cent annually. Furthermore, it will support foreign investment and job creation in Thailand while elevating international standards in related areas such as intellectual property rights, labour rights, environmental standards, and sustainability. In the first seven months of this year, trade between Thailand and the EU amounted to 24.7 billion USD, with Thailand exporting goods worth 12.9 billion to the EU and importing goods valued at 11.8 billion from the EU. Thailand's key exports include computers and components, air-conditioners and parts, jewellery, electronic circuit boards, and rubber products. Meanwhile, Thailand mainly imports include machinery and components, pharmaceutical and medical products, chemicals, and electrical machinery and components. Thailand seeks air force flight slots to boost tourism Thailands Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit said on September 7 that his ministry plans to acquire some flight slots from the air force to serve growing demand from airlines to boost tourism. Thailand intensifies efforts to mitigate El Nino effects Thailands government is stepping up efforts to address concerns about decreased rainfall and drought caused by the El Nino weather phenomenon that is affecting the country's agricultural sector. Preben Elnef, general manager of Lego Manufacturing Vietnam and vice president of Lego Group, said, Today is about celebrating Lego's positive environmental and community-focused momentum in Vietnam, as well as recognising the significant progress weve made in the construction of our state-of the-art factory our most sustainable to date. As construction is underway, we are grateful for the continued support from the authorities and our many partners, whose collaboration has ensured that we are on-track to begin production in the second half of 2024, allowing us to create long-term growth in the Asia-Pacific region, Elnef added. The planting of trees at the site began in September last year and the 50,000 amounts to twice the number that were removed for construction of the new factory, and includes seven different species native to Vietnam, fostering greater biodiversity in the long term. The planting is supported by Vietnam Singapore Industrial Park Joint Venture Co., Ltd. The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai, national and provincial officials, as well as business and community partners. The factory is designed to be Legos most sustainable to date, supporting the companys sustainability ambitions to reduce absolute global carbon emissions by 37 per cent by 2032. It will feature rooftop solar panels, and a solar plant will be built on a neighbouring plot of land. The factory will use the latest energy-efficient production equipment, while the buildings and manufacturing processes are designed to minimise energy use. Lego announced its plans to build the new $1 billion factory in December 2021. The investment is the largest by any Danish company in Vietnam and part of the companys strategy to expand its supply chain network to support long-term growth and locate production facilities close to its major markets to respond to shifts in local demand, shorten the supply chain, and reduce its environmental impact. According to Lego, its production and recruitment are on track and is expected to recruit 100 employees by the end of this year and up to 500 by the end of 2024, when production is also expected to be fully up and running. The LEGO Group plans to build new factory in Vietnam to support long-term growth This is the sixth LEGO factory to expand the groups global manufacturing footprint and support long-term growth in the Asia-Pacific region. Speaking at the "Bringing Vietnamese agricultural products and processed foods into foreign distribution systems" workshop on August 14 in Ho Chi Minh City, Nguyen Thao Hien, deputy director of the European-American Market Department at the Ministry of Industry and Trade said, "Vietnam is among the world's top 3 suppliers of coffee, the largest supplier of cashew nuts and pepper, and the third-largest supplier of rice." Over the first eight months, China, the United States, and Japan remained the three largest export markets for Vietnam. The export value to China accounted for 21.9 per cent, the US made up 20.6 per cent, and Japan stood at 7.6 per cent. In 2022, many of Vietnams agricultural products, such as banana, sweet potato, bird's nest, grapefruit, longan, passion fruit, and durian were licensed for export to developed markets including the US, Japan, China, and New Zealand. Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Do Thang Hai (centre) and leaders of businesses at the workshop "China remains an attractive market for Vietnamese agricultural products in 2023 thanks to the booming demand and the close geographical location, which reduces logistics costs and time compared to other markets," Hien said. Although Vietnam's agricultural product industry has achieved many positive results, sustainable development and environmental protection are still key requirements in most of its key export markets. Countries are adjusting their legal frameworks with a series of new laws and regulations to meet specific goals, and these are spreading to other nations thanks to the strong political commitments that were made at COP26 and COP27. In fact, the EU is a pioneer market on this issue with the promulgation of a series of laws under the European Green Deal, aimed at addressing the challenges related to climate and the environment. In mid-May, the EU issued the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) regulations, which force importers into the EU to report their total carbon emissions for goods. Vietnam produces over 29 million tons of rice straw, and more than 80 per cent of this is burned in the fields after harvest. The habit of drying rice in traditional ways, such as by placing it on roads and fields in rural areas, and low rice milling efficiency in many countries are increasing the waste of this precious food, Thuan said. At the end of June, the EU also issued the EU Regulation on Deforestation-free Products (EUDR). Accordingly, companies trading in wood, coffee, cocoa, rubber, soybeans, cattle, palm oil, and derivative products in the EU must prove that their goods are not related to illegal deforestation activities. Currently, the regulations on environmental protection in Vietnam's main export markets such as the EU, North America, and Northeast Asian markets are becoming increasingly stricter. The US and Canadian governments are also considering mechanisms similar to the EU's CBAM and EUDR. According to Nguyen Duy Thuan, CEO of Loctroi Group, rice is essential, and is an important aspect of food security. Its production is also an important source of income for over 150 million farming households worldwide. However, it is both a victim and a culprit of climate change. Rice growing and processing generates significant greenhouse gas emissions, including methane, nitrous oxide, and CO 2 , equating to 10 per cent of global methane emissions and from 25 to 33 per cent of those in Southeast Asia. All of this data gives us a clear message that rice production is currently unsustainable, so we need a strategic change, emphasised Thuan. Nguyen Duy Thuan, CEO of Loctroi Group, displayed advanced technological solutions to maximise sub-products post rice harvest Being one of the leading rice processors in Vietnam, Loc Troi has built a strategy for rice production that aims to change production habits by applying sustainable rice-growing standards (SRP), training farmers to practice SRP criteria with bonuses to encourage positive habits, and inviting international agencies to verify and certify the results. In its factories, Loc Troi has researched and improved advanced technological solutions to maximise the sub-products post rice harvest and reduce post-harvest waste. It has also applied kaizen (meaning continuous improvement) in 10 factories with the aim of increasing efficiency to 90 per cent from the current 70 per cent, and installed solar energy in all its factories to reduce fossil fuel use. "Currently, Loc Troi is the only company in the world to achieve an SRP100 score, certified by the World Rice Research Institute and independent international inspection agencies. It has achieved this maximum score for four consecutive years. This SRP100 certification also provides an opportunity to have confirmed carbon credits that can be traded on the international carbon credit market," Thuan emphasised. Tran Minh Thang, head of the Vietnam Trade Office Branch in San Francisco, said that to improve the efficiency of exporting fresh lychees to this market, compliance with food safety regulations is a prerequisite. This requires the farming and growing process to strictly comply with the regulations and requirements of the import markets. Cooperating with large-scale retailers such as AEON, Safeway, Albertsons, and WinCo Foods is an important strategy. Store chains and supermarkets in the US, Japan, EU are increasingly focusing on providing fresh and natural fruits. Therefore, establishing partnerships with these retailers can bring great benefits to businesses, Thang emphasised. Import-export turnover of FIEs drops by $9 billion The import-export turnover of foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs) dropped by $9 billion in the first two months. MARD targets $14 billion in agro-forestry-aquatic exports in Q2 The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development targets $14 billion in export turnover of the agro-forestry-acquatic sector in the second quarter of this year, an increase of 3 per cent on-year. "Ask yourself what you can do to help the people around you, ask yourself if you are happy and healthy, and if not, then do something about it. I want to make people aware of their own health and help them understand that each of us has a responsibility to help ourselves and those around us," Lipkin said. Vietnamese cuisine is seen as healthy and nutritious and many hotels and resorts here provide packages promoting a healthy lifestyle to international tourists with lots of fresh, organic, food on offer. "Vietnam has nearly 200 destinations, hotels, resorts and businesses that participated in World Wellness Weekend, and we hope to do even better with more than 500 participating venues in the future, Lipkin added. World Wellness Weekend was created in 2017 by professional wellness specialists to inspire and empower people to lead a healthier, more active lifestyle and to enjoy it with family and friends. 'Good Health and Wellbeing for all' is among the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals and so, in partnership with the UN's Global Sustainability Index Institute, the World Wellness Weekend encourages all relevant local authorities to organise free healthcare activities over the third weekend of September each year. This timing of the event is connected to the Autumn Equinox in the Northern Hemisphere and the Spring Equinox in the Southern Hemisphere, the time when day and night are equal, representing harmony in our work/life balance. From the first sunrise in Fiji on September 15 to the last sunset in Hawaii on September 17, the World Wellness Weekend sought to encourage each of us to experience activities to boost our wellbeing and to share our best self with relatives, friends, and colleagues. AUSTIN The GOP-dominated Texas Senate acquitted fellow Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Saturday, putting him back in office and showing no political damage after a two-week impeachment trial on allegations of corruption. The impeachment charges centered on allegations that Paxton improperly used the powers of his office to protect Austin real estate developer Nate Paul, who was indicted in June on federal charges of making false statements to banks. The trial reached its final stages Friday after closing arguments from the bipartisan group of House managers prosecuting Paxton and the attorney general's defense lawyers. We discovered unprecedented abuse in the Texas attorney generals office by Mr. Paxton, said state Rep. Andrew Murr, a Republican. He has betrayed us, and the people of Texas. In a fiery defense, Paxton attorney Tony Buzbee insisted the House had not proved their case and called the impeachment a political witch hunt. There is shame here, and the shame sits right there Buzbee said, pointing at the prosecution table. That they would bring this case, in this chamber, with no evidence. The jury is made up of 30 mostly Republican senators. They met for about eight hours Friday without emerging for a vote, then returned to the Capitol on Saturday morning, where they voted to acquit Paxton on all 16 articles of impeachment he faced. A look at what happened so far and what comes next: The evidence House Republican impeachment managers and Paxton's defense team were each given 24 hours over the last two weeks to present evidence. The House managers spent their time trying to methodically lay out their corruption case. An initial witness list of more than 100 names was whittled down to about 20. Most were former Paxton aides who were suspicious of his business relationship with Paul and his romantic one with Laura Olson, who worked for Paul. They detailed their concerns about Paxtons efforts to help Paul, burner phones and arguments over who paid for kitchen countertops in Paxtons home renovation project. They told of taking their concerns to the FBI and how Paxton's extramarital affair might explain why Paxton seemed so determined to help Paul fend of the federal investigation that would eventually lead to Paul's indictment on fraud charges. I witnessed Attorney General Ken Paxton do brazen things on behalf of Nate Paul. He abused the entire office of the attorney general of Texas to benefit Nate Paul," former Deputy Attorney General Blake Brickman said, and it got worse and worse and worse. Defense attorneys called four of Paxtons current employees who testified they have seen Paxton do nothing wrong and are proud to work for him. The dramatic moment the trial did not get: testimony from Olson. The relationship was considered central to the bribery charge. Olson came to the Capitol on Wednesday and was called as a witness, but ultimately did not have to take the stand. Olson's exit deflated a potentially dramatic afternoon as she didn't have to face televised, public questioning about the relationship as Paxton's wife, state Sen. Angela Paxton, sat in the room. Ken Paxton returned to the trial Friday for the first time since the opening day and listened to the closing arguments. He was not required to attend the proceedings. Senate jury The Texas Constitution set the 31-member Senate as the impeachment trial jury and all were required to attend. But only 30 determined Ken Paxton's fate. Angela Paxton was barred from voting or participating in deliberations because of her conflict of interest as the attorney general's wife. A conviction would have required a two-thirds majority, or 21 votes, of the 31 members present. Anything short of that means acquittal. Republicans hold a 19-12 Senate majority. The best case scenario for House impeachment managers was for all nine Senate Democrats to vote to convict Paxton and that nine Republicans would join them. In the end, no more than two Republicans voted yes on any one charge. The voting to acquit Paxton one-by-one on 16 charges of misconduct, bribery and corruption took more than an hour. Democratic Sen. Royce West said the deliberations, which were done in private, were not combative. There were some of them that were going to vote no from the very beginning. But the great majority had an open mind, West said. What's next Paxton's political career is intact. After being suspended since his May impeachment, he's reinstated to his job and maintains his status as a darling among conservatives nationally. He backed Donald Trumps efforts to overturn President Joe Bidens 2020 electoral victory and filed numerous lawsuits against the Biden administration. Like Trump, Paxton has claimed he was the victim of a politically motivated investigation. His defense attorneys have even suggested a Republican plot to oust him. But Paxton still faces serious risk on three fronts: an ongoing federal investigation into the same allegations that led to his impeachment; a disciplinary proceeding over his effort to overturn the 2020 presidential election; and felony securities fraud charges dating to 2015. Paxton's impeachment has fractured the Texas Republican Party. A Republican-majority House voted overwhelmingly to impeach him, while mostly Republican House managers led the prosecution. Paxton is just the third state official to be impeached in Texas nearly 200-year history, and the first statewide officeholder since former Gov. James Pa Ferguson in 1917, who resigned the day before he was convicted. By any measure, the House impeachment managers prosecution of Attorney General Ken Paxton fell well short of perfect. The star-studded lineup led by trial lawyers Rusty Hardin and Dick DeGuerin struggled at times with the trials time limits while tying together all the threads of a complex case and providing enough evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Paxton misused his power and needed to be ousted from office. By any measure, the House impeachment managers prosecution of Attorney General Ken Paxton fell well short of perfect. The star-studded lineup led by trial lawyers Rusty Hardin and Dick DeGuerin struggled at times with the trials time limits while tying together all the threads of a complex case and providing enough evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Paxton misused his power and needed to be ousted from office. The House lawyers and impeachment managers faced the extremely difficult task of convincing the majority of Republican senators to vote against their own political self-interest because Paxton retained significant support among conservative voters, said Thomas Cullee Mayes Jr., a San Antonio trial lawyer. Now that weve watched the entire trial, its very difficult to envision a scenario where the House lawyers, with the evidence they had, could have convinced nine Republican senators to convict, Mayes said. Cal Jillson, a political science professor at Southern Methodist University, said senators appeared resentful that the House had impeached Paxton, forcing them to take public votes on whether to convict him a divisive issue for the Republican base. He also faulted the House for a presentation of evidence and witness testimony that at times was disorganized and slow-paced. He praised lead defense lawyer Tony Buzbee, a superstar plaintiffs attorney in his own right, for ably arguing that the House had not proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt. I think it was a jump ball for a dozen Republican senators, and somehow they concluded that their interest was better served by voting to acquit, Jillson said. What you have is a demonstration of morbid partisanship, because you have all 12 Democrats and two lost Republicans against 16 Republicans that all hung together. Mayes likewise commended Buzbees performance and said House lawyer Erin Epley was the only House attorney able to go toe-to-toe with him. Though the political realities were what they were, Mayes said, the House should have deployed Epley earlier in the nine-day trial instead of Hardin. The leaders of the House managers, Reps. Andrew Murr, R-Junction, and Ann Johnson, D-Houston, hinted at this dynamic in speaking with reporters after Saturdays verdict. Murr said there was a challenging threshold to meet in what was functionally a political trial. We did our duty to bring the evidence into the sunlight through this impeachment process, he said. This trial painted an accurate and clear picture of an out-of-control attorney general who refused to listen to the desperate warnings of his conservative lawyers that he had entrusted to help run his office. Mr. Paxton has still never explained why he was so determined to help one person, Nate Paul, over the desperate warnings of his most trusted aides. Johnson had particular criticism for Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who served as the trials judge and afterward castigated the House for impeaching Paxton, saying a trial could have been avoided if House leaders had taken a more careful approach to examining the allegations. Asked whether she thought Patrick sought to inappropriately influence the vote, Johnson responded that Patrick did seem to have prepared notes ready to attack members of the House and the House process. Hardin said several of Patricks rulings had handcuffed the House managers ability to present their case, including barring testimony from Laura Olson, Paxtons alleged paramour, after she indicated her intention to assert her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. Regardless of Patricks role in the proceedings, the safest option for Republican senators was to acquit Paxton, said Rice University political science professor Mark Jones. Their greatest consideration, in districts drawn to ensure that Democrats have little chance of winning, is how their decisions will play in hyper-partisan Republican primaries. At the end of the day, this was a political decision by the Senate made more as a collective, Jones said. Thats what the most active members of the Republican primary electorate wanted to see, and in Texas, power continues to run through that primary in the spring rather than the general election in November. Patrick Svitek, Robert Downen and Kate McGee contributed reporting. Disclosure: Rice University and Southern Methodist University have been financial supporters of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribunes journalism. Find a complete list of them here. Click here for updates on this story SHREVEPORT, Louisiana (KTBS) -- His mother told him he was going to meet God. Thats when she rolled him off the Cross Lake bridge, and he make a big splash. It felt like a cannonball, Elijah Black said. It wasnt fun and he doesnt want to meet God again. Thats the description Elijah gave child services investigators four days after his mother, Ureka Black, 34, dropped him and his infant brother from the bridge. Ten-month-old Joshua Black did not survive. Ureka Black is charged with second-degree murder in Joshuas death and attempted second-degree murder for injuring Elijah. Shes pleaded not guilty and not guilty by reason of insanity. Elijahs description of what took place on that Friday afternoon on Sept. 24, 2021 is included in a report prepared by the state Department of Children and Family Services and filed into the court record in connection with Blacks upcoming trial. Jury selection is scheduled to begin Monday in Caddo District Court. In addition to Elijah, interviews with Ureka Black, her teenage daughter, her three sisters and first responders are included in the 22-page report. Ureka Blacks attorneys initially said she was not competent to stand trial. However, she was examined by two phychiatrists as part of a sanity commission, and both said she was competent. During an interview with DCFS on Oct. 19, 2021, Ureka Black expressed love for her children. And she told investigators if there was anything she could tell Elijah about what happened she would say it was the monster. The monster is not a particular person, she said, but anything that anyone is afraid of or doesnt understand. She talked about her fractured relationship with family members and accused various ones of abusing and mistreating her children. She essentially was homeless, having left Shreveport to move to Texas then returning because she and the children didnt have a place to stay. When talking about the incident, Ureka Black told the DCFS investigator she remembered going to sleep in her car. She started crying when thinking about Joshua and said she would hug and kiss him if she could and tell him she loves him. Investigators determined Ureka Black drove Elijah and Joshua over the Cross Lake bridge then threw both over so they could meet with God. Shreveport police Cpl. Garrett Hayes told the DCFS investigator he got a call from a Pointe Place property owner about a child found floating in the lake. A lawn crew noticed the child. Mason Guy, a lake patrol officer, went out on his boat to make sure other watercraft stayed out of the area. A boater went up to him and said a person in long pants and a shirt was swimming on the other side of the bridge without a life jacket on. At first, the officer thought the boater was just talking, but then he saw something make a ripple in the water and he saw Elijah floating on his back with his eyes closed. He thought the child was dead because he was not moving. Guy said, Hey, little man, and Elijah opened an eye and started to panic. Guy grabbed his left arm but began to loose his grip. And he knew if he let go the child would go under. So, Guy told Elijah to hold his arm while he grabbed his pants and pulled him into the boat. He snuggled Elijah close to him then flew the boat onto the rocks on the shore. Thats when Elijah went limp. First-responders were about to perform CPR when they realized Elijah was alive and breathing. His left side was bruised, and the left side of his face was swollen and bruised, leaving officers to speculate Elijah hit the water on his left side. There was no explanation as to how Elijah remained afloat. Investigators said their measurements indicate Elijah fell roughly 77 to 80 feet from the bridge. Elijah was found about a half-mile from where Joshua was located. Joshuas body was already in rigor mortis. Investigators assume the brothers had been in the water an hour or two hours before they were found. During their separate interviews, Ureka Blacks three sisters said they did not know what happened or why. All described Ureka Black as overly protective of her children, which also included an older daughter who was in her grandmothers custody. Ureka Black did not want even family members taking photographs of the children. One sister speculated Ureka Black may have taken some type of pills the night before. Another said Ureka Black was severely burned when she was a child and always had mental health concerns. She often isolated herself from her family. Ureka Blacks mother heard her daughter had been sleeping in her car for about six months and was in a state of depression because she could not get a job. She claimed her daughter took Ecstasy pills the night before her sons were thrown into the lake. Elijah was interviewed at the Gingerbread House four days after his rescue. He described spending the day with his mother, her friend and his brother at a motel. They went to a store and got snacks for his older sister, dropped his mothers friend off then took the snacks to his sister. Ureka Black fixed a bottle for Joshua, and he went to sleep. She drove to the bridge, got out and opened his door. Elijah said his mother told him to get out of the van because he needed to go with God. Then she rolled him off the bridge. Elijah said he was tired of talking about the bridge, so the forensic interviewer stopped asking questions. But then he said she could ask one more question. She asked Elijah where Joshua was. He told her Joshua did not go into the water because he could not swim. He said he was the only one who went into the water. The interview ended. Please note: This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform. WATERLOO A Waterloo man has been charged with allegedly providing misleading information when he bought three handguns in 2022. A grand jury for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Iowa handed up an indictment charging Raytiris Jamoan Haywood, 26, with three counts of making a false statement during a firearm purchase on Sept. 8. The government is also seeking forfeiture of the guns. Haywood pleaded not guilty during an initial court appearance on Friday. A detention hearing is set for Thursday. Authorities allege Haywood declared an address on City View Street in Waterloo when he bought a 9 mm Canik TP9SF handgun on Oct. 27, 2022. He used the same address when he bought at 9 mm Stoeger STR9 pistol on Nov. 9 and a 9 mm Taurus G3C pistol on Nov. 22. Court records allege Haywood didnt live at the City View address. Photos: Guns in Northeast Iowa crime cases WATERLOO One person was taken to the hospital following a stabbing outside a downtown bar early Saturday. Witnesses told police there was an argument between a man and a woman outside the Karma Bar on West Fourth Street around 12:46 a.m. Another man attempted to intervene and was stabbed in the shoulder and stomach, according to police. He was taken to MercyOne Waterloo Medical Center for treatment and the injuries arent life-threatening, police said. No arrests have been made, and the incident remains under investigation. 2023's best cities for rooftop bars and lounges 2023's best cities for rooftop bars and lounges Top 20 cities with highest overall scores for rooftop bars and lounges Panoramic insights Behind the ranking CEDAR FALLS A 45-year-old Cedar Falls therapist will be a contestant on "Wheel of Fortune" Monday night. Nicole Winther will be one of three contestants competing at 6:30 p.m. on KWWL-TV, the shows 41st season and host Pat Sajaks final go-round. The owner of Counseling Connection and University of Northern Iowa social work professor has been a super fan since 2021, watching almost every show with her husband, Cody, but has been a viewer off and on since its inception in 1975. It was always on in her home after the evening news. I told myself to just have fun, she said about her experience competing during a telephone interview Friday. Being chosen and being here is a win. Youre already winning. I was a little nervous. I just didnt want to end up as a bad GIF or part of one of those videos featuring what not to do. Contestants on the show figure out hidden phrases by guessing letters one at a time. They win money or prizes, as determined by a spin of the wheel, for each correct consonant guessed. But they have to pay to see which vowels are in a puzzle. The contestant who has amassed the most winnings at the end of a game goes on to play the bonus round, during which even more can be won prizes frequently seen in the bonus round include automobiles, vacations and more cash. An Iowa (and Kansas) native, who spent time more specifically in Villisca, Winther has been a resident of Cedar Falls since 2001. Shes a 2003 masters graduate of social work from UNI. When not working, shes spending time with her husband of 23 years and her two daughters, Ava, 6, and Ivy, 4. The episode was recorded in Los Angeles in July but the application and audition process began for her back in 2021. Winther remembers submitting a video of her authentic goofy and unscripted self and then engaging in practice games over Zoom. She was ultimately selected despite some technical difficulties. There was a commercial that came on and said If you want to be a contestant, go online and it described the process as being so easy. And Cody was like, Hey you should do that. And I responded, I dont think theyd pick me. Plus, my technological skills arent so great and I was concerned about any uploading, portals, downloads or whatever. But Winther ended up going through with submitting an application anyway and found the process to indeed be easy peasy. After a year and half, she didnt hear back and tried again. Im like at this point, it is happening. Im going to make this happen. If I have to submit something every week, its going to happen. That was in January of 2023. I resubmitted a video and reuploaded a picture, and it was in April that I got the email saying I had been chosen to advance to a virtual audition. A viewing party will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Wild Hare American Bar & Grill, 2512 White Tail Drive. Photos: Vanna White and 'Wheel of Fortune' through the years WASHINGTON The Republicans whose elections in swing districts next year will determine which party gains control of the House are overwhelmingly voicing their support for House Speaker Kevin McCarthy's impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. It's a stance, Democrats say, that could come back to haunt them. McCarthy spared the Republican lawmakers from having to take a vote to launch the impeachment investigation, a likely signal he didn't have the votes to succeed. Yet many of the 18 Republicans representing districts that Biden won in 2020 were quick to say they supported McCarthy's launch despite the potential political risk back home. I think the American people deserve to know the facts and I am looking forward to seeing what the outcome of the inquiry is, said Rep. Jen Kiggans, who represents a Virginia district she won in 2022, but Biden carried by nearly 2 percentage points in 2020. If the inquiry does lead to an impeachment vote, history suggests it won't necessarily be helpful for the impeachers. House Republicans lost five seats in the 1998 election a few weeks before impeaching President Bill Clinton. Democrats made those surprising gains even though the party that controls the White House usually struggles in midterm elections. Democrats need only a handful of seats to win back control of the House next year, as Republicans control the chamber by the narrowest of margins with a 222-212 majority. Rep. Suzan DelBene, the chair of the campaign arm for House Democrats, gave a preview of the political arguments to come, saying vulnerable House Republicans are not focusing on meeting the needs of voters while pursuing a sham impeachment. They are unfit to govern, she said. House Democrats will make sure people know that as we continue to focus on growing the middle class, lowering costs and creating jobs. Rep. Richard Hudson, the chair of the campaign arm for House Republicans, dismissed the threat the impeachment investigation may have for swing-district Republicans. He said voters want transparency and accountability in government. As long as we follow the facts, I dont think it hurts us, Hudson said. An AP-NORC poll finds that two-thirds of Republicans but just 7% of Democrats are highly concerned about whether President Biden committed wrongdoing related to his son Hunter Bidens business dealings. About one-third of those identifying themselves as independent said they were extremely or very concerned. The Congressional Integrity Project, a Democratic-aligned group, has already launched digital ads hammering the probe in the 18 Republican-led districts that Biden won. The ads frame the impeachment inquiry as hatched by McCarthy and conservative firebrand Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., in an effort to help former President Donald Trump, who is seeking a rematch with Biden in 2024. The ads call on the lawmakers to focus on real priorities, not bogus impeachment stunts." Many of the Republicans in Biden-won districts are from California and New York. They'll need to win over independents and moderates to win, and ads aligning them with Greene and Trump are designed to make that job harder for them. Brad Woodhouse, a longtime Democratic strategist and senior adviser to the group, said Republicans have failed to get signature priorities over the finish line while fighting among themselves over lifting the debt ceiling and funding the government. That's a vulnerability that will be magnified during an impeachment fight, he said. Even as they say they support McCarthy's effort, some of the swing district Republicans emphasize that they'll be focused on other issues, clearly aware of the criticism coming their way. Rep. Marc Molinaro, R-N.Y., told reporters the impeachment inquiry is "going to consume a lot of your attention. Its not going to consume a lot of my attention. Rep. Nick LaLota, R-N.Y., said the decision to elevate investigations of Biden was the speakers call, and all they were embarking on was a fact-seeking mission. He said he wasn't worried about how the inquiry would play politically for him back home. The freshmen lawmaker, along with other likely holdouts like Rep. Ken Buck, R-Colo., were offered private briefings from leadership this week in order to assuage any concerns they had about moving forward with an inquiry. McCarthy was asked Wednesday how he won over the impeachment skeptics in his caucus. Theres a lot of accusations out there you just want the answers to. Impeachment inquiry simply allows Congress Republicans and Democrats to be able to get the answers to the questions," McCarthy said. Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., who will be leading the inquiry, said some lawmakers with concerns did reach out to him in the days before McCarthy's announcement. I tried to explain to them that my goal has always been just to get the facts," Comer said. And, at the end of the day, if the facts lead to impeachment, then I'm sorry, we're going to have to vote on impeachment. But the facts clearly lead to an impeachment inquiry. How the 'Impeachment 10' fared in their 2022 primaries Rep. Liz Cheney: Lost primary Rep. Peter Meijer: Lost primary Rep. Tom Rice: Lost primary Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler: Lost primary Rep. Dan Newhouse: Won primary Rep. David Valadao: Won primary Rep. Fred Upton: Retiring Rep. John Katko: Retiring Rep. Adam Kinzinger: Retiring Rep. Anthony Gonzalez: Retiring Let's end the climate scare promoting abortion By Tom Harris web posted September 18, 2023 Pro-lifers should be seriously concerned that the abortion industry is now allying itself with the powerful and heavily funded climate alarmist movement that has hijacked institutions across the western world. The Virginia-based Population Research Institute tells us about this sinister connection in their important video, "Climate Change is an Excuse for Abortion." They warn: "Climate crisis advocates blame human activity as the leading cause for climate change. So why not push for global access to abortion and contraception under the guise of climate activism to address the source of all climate change humanity? This is precisely what the abortion industry has attempted to do. " Population Research Institute explain how pro-abortion activists are now attempting to: "rebrand the movement as a champion of a movement now at the forefront of agendas across the world: Climate Change. "They [abortion advocates] claim that an inevitable and necessary step to combat climate change is with family planning it has empowered them to make their population control agenda more relevant by means of embedding fear through climate crisis theory and claiming their movement as the solution." As I described in my Enter Stage Right article " Using the Climate Change Scare to Promote Abortion , " broad-spread access to abortion is now also being pushed by climate alarmists to supposedly help "stop climate change," a entirely impossible goal, of course. Consequently, the pro-life movement needs to learn enough basic climate science to be able to show that the climate scare is unjustifiedit is not based on empirical evidence of what is actually happening in the real world. As can be seen in the following graph, the climate alarm is a fantasy based on computerized climate models that make temperature rise forecasts that have been triple reality. In presenting the above graph, Dr. Craig D. Idso Chairman, Center for the Study of Carbon Dioxide and Global Change , presented said, "Each of the red bars on this graphic shows warming that should have occurred in the tropical upper troposphere over the period 1979 - 2017, as predicted by simulations from 102 different climate models. The average predicted warming rate over this nearly four-decade-long period, as shown by the black horizontal dashed line, is 0.44C per decade. In contrast, satellite measurements shown in blue reveal that the actual warming rate is three times smaller than that predicted by the models." In part 2 of this ESR series, "" How Pro-Lifers Can Fight the Climate Scare Threatening Their Movement ," I explained further how to contest the mistaken idea that the rise in so-called "global average temperature" is of concern. In " Fighting the Climate Scare to Defend Life," part 3 of the ESR series, I demonstrated how to defeat the extreme weather, flooding and wildfire arguments used by climate activists. In this, the fourth and final installment, I will show how to debunk concerns about sea level rise and explain how our emissions of carbon dioxide are benefitting life on Earth! No Need for Concern About Sea Level Sea level has been rising since the end of the last glacial period, 15,000 years ago. 8,000 years ago, sea level was rising ten times faster than today due to the large volume of ice that had yet to melt and the expansion of sea water due to the rapid warming that was occurring at the time. In Figure 1 below, we see that the oceans have risen only about nine inches in the last 140 years, a rise equal to the thickness of several pieces of paper per year. Reliable satellite data of the last forty years confirms this rise of about one to two millimeters per year before any complex adjustments are made. It is relatively simple to compensate for such modest sea level rise with appropriate adaptation measures. Gregory Wrightstone, Executive Director of the CO 2 Coalition, presented the following graphs at a September 21, 2021 seminar that demonstrate that sea level rise at six of the world's largest cities is nothing unusual, merely slow and steady, as one would expect during a gradually warming period: In " Biden Killing America's Energy Security With Sea Level Hysteria ," a June 22, 2021 America Out Loud article by the late Dr. Jay Lehr and myself, we explained that melting sea ice does not cause the ocean levels to rise: "When water starts to freeze, it expands, becoming 10% less dense and floats upon the water that made it up. When the ice melts back into the water, it shrinks by the same 10 percent. So, when sea ice melts, the 10 percent floating above the water combines with the 90 percent under the water, occupying the same original water volume." We are often told that small islands such as in the Maldives are at risk of being submerged due to global warming. Stockholm University sea level expert, the late Dr. Nils-Axel Morner estimated (2017) that sea level will rise only about five cm (about two inches) in the next 100 years. Amazingly, the uncertainty on this estimate is plus or minus 15 cm, because of the large uncertainty in future climate. Regardless, even the highest of Morner's forecasts poses no danger to most of the low-lying areas of the world. For example, Morner created the following graph for the Maldives which shows that sea levels were higher than today five times in the past 5,000 years: Many people are concerned that, if sufficient land glaciers melt, sea level rise will become a problem. Dr. Lehr and I explained that this too is incorrect. Here are some excerpts from " Biden Killing America's Energy Security With Sea Level Hysteria" : "The Antarctic contains about 90 percent of the world's ice mass. About 44 percent of that Antarctic ice is in the ice shelves (floating) and coastal ice (not floating), mainly in the western regions of the Pacific Ocean. More than 50 percent of the Antarctic sheet is land-based and can be several miles thick. Historical data confirms that there are few days per year when the temperature is above freezing, and then only a few hours per day and only along the coast. Consequentially, no continental Antarctic ice water ever reaches the oceans. "During bright and sunny days, a small amount of the continental and shoreline ice surface is destroyed by infrared rays from the sun. But this ice does not melt into the water; rather, it sublimates directly into water vapor. Sublimation means that the ice goes directly from the solid to the gaseous phase (water vapor) without ever going through the liquid phase. When the sublimated water vapor reaches the cold Antarctic air, the vast majority of it quickly turns to snow and falls back on the glacier. The winds may blow only a tiny amount over the Antarctic Ocean. >Nearly zero goes into the oceans as water. "Coastal Antarctic ice, dramatized with films, photos, and articles in newspapers and TV, shows large ice chunks tumbling into the ocean. These dramatic falling cliffs are not caused by warm air. Instead, the melting is occurring at the water level by the warmed Pacific Ocean. Here the water splashes and melts and gouges caverns in the ice, forming large ice shelves or overhangs. This process continues until the overhang's weight is big enough to cause the overhung ice to break and tumble off. That is when we get the stunning pictures. So yes, some of this ice will melt into the oceans and cause some levels to rise, but the volume is unmeasurably small. "Still, 90% of the coastal ice is submerged in the freezing ocean depths (up to 2,000 meters), so practically only a tiny percent of the shelf or coastal ice actually melts. "NASA published a study on October 30, 2015, saying that Antarctica is accumulating ice at a rate of about 112 billion tons per year. It has already replaced all the ice that melted in the previous several decades. See " Biden Killing America's Energy Security With Sea Level Hysteria for further discussion on this topic. We need more, not less carbon dioxide! Climate alarmists assert that carbon dioxide is a dangerous pollutant that must be controlled. A Google search for "Joe Biden" and "carbon pollution" yields almost 49,000 results. But gaseous carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) is not carbon, which is a solid, and it is anything but pollution. It is an invisible, non-toxic, trace, natural component of the atmosphere, allowing plants, and thus all life on Earth, to thrive. Contrary to the assertions of activists, politicians and most mainstream media, the figure below, shown by Dr. William Happer , Professor of Physics Emeritus at Princeton University in a November 15, 2021 presentation hosted by the Climate Intelligence Foundation (CLINTEL) in Amsterdam, demonstrates that we are close to the lowest levels of CO 2 in Earth's history. Since photosynthesizing plants evolved in a relatively high CO 2 environment, they become starved for CO 2 when levels are low as today. This is why greenhouse operators inject an extra 1,000 ppm of CO 2 into their greenhouses to stimulate plant growth. Not surprisingly, rising atmospheric CO 2 is significantly helping plant growth across the world. According to NIPCC's Climate Change Reconsidered II: Biological Impacts report: "Long-term CO 2 enrichment studies confirm the findings of shorter-term experiments, demonstrating numerous growth-enhancing, water-conserving, and stress-alleviating effects of elevated atmospheric CO 2 on plants growing in both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems." Indeed, as explained in the Aug. 23, 2021 ICSC-Canada's Climate Change Minute , increasing CO 2 is "greening" the world with the stimulation of plant productivity, which has occurred in spite of fires, disease, pest outbreaks, and deforestation. NASA released the image and video below, reporting (" Carbon Dioxide Fertilization Greening Earth, Study Finds ," April 26, 2016): "From a quarter to half of Earth's vegetated lands has shown significant greening over the last 35 years largely due to rising levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide, according to a new study published in the journal Nature Climate Change on April 25. "An international team of 32 authors from 24 institutions in eight countries led the effort, which involved using satellite data from NASA's Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectrometer and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer instruments to help determine the leaf area index, or amount of leaf cover, over the planet's vegetated regions. The greening represents an increase in leaves on plants and trees equivalent in area to two times the continental United States." This image shows the change in leaf area across the globe from 1982-2015. Credits: Boston University/R. Myneni Click on the above video to play. In 2020, NASA confirmed that this beneficial trend is continuing. No one should fear rising CO 2 levels; they have been much higher in the past and no climate catastrophe occurred. The recent rise is working to green the Earth and benefit us all. To learn more about the real facts concerning carbon dioxide, the stuff of life, please listen to Dr. Lehr and my interview of educator and citizen climate researcher Sam Horowitz here ! After presenting to Campaign Life Coalition , Action4Canada and other pro-life groups in Canada over the past few months, I would be pleased to speak with any pro-life organizations in my country or the U.S. about the climate scare threatening their movement and how to beat it. Readers are encouraged to contact me at icsc.tom.harris@gmail.com at any time! Tom Harris is Executive Director of the Ottawa, Canada-based International Climate Science Coalition, and a policy advisor to The Heartland Institute. He has 40 years experience as a mechanical engineer/project manager, science and technology communications professional, technical trainer, and S&T advisor to a former Opposition Senior Environment Critic in Canada's Parliament. Russian Defence Ministry report on the progress of the special military operation (18 September 2023) Part I (see Part II) Last night, the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation carried out a group strike with long-range airborne precision weapons and strike drones against places where the Kiev regime is storing Storm Shadow cruise missiles and depleted uranium ammunition, as well as centres for radio-technical reconnaissance and the training of sabotage groups of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The goal of the strike has been achieved. All the targets have been engaged. In Donetsk direction, units of the Yug Group of Forces in cooperation with aviation and artillery repelled six enemy attacks near Kleshcheyevka, Veseloye, Mayorsk, Maryinka, and Vodyanoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic). Up to 255 Ukrainian personnel, three armoured fighting vehicles, and seven motor vehicles have been neutralised. In counter-battery warfare, the Russian troops hit one U.S.-made M777 artillery system, one Polish-made Krab self-propelled artillery system, and one D-30 howitzer. Moreover, an ammunition depot of the 110th Mechanised Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces was obliterated close to Avdeevka (Donetsk Peoples Republic). In Zaporozhye direction, coordinated efforts of the Russian Group in combination with air strikes, artillery fire, and heavy flame-throwing systems defeated a cluster of manpower and hardware of the 71st Jaeger Brigade near Verbovoye (Zaporozhye region). Up to 55 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, three pick-up trucks, two D-30 howitzers, one U.S.-made M119 gun, as well as one AN/TPQ-50 counter-battery radar station have been eliminated. In Krasny Liman direction, two attacks launched by assault detachments of the 67th Mechanised Brigade and the 12th Special Forces Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces close to Chervonaya Dibrova and Serebryansky forestry were repelled by professional efforts of the Tsentr Group of Forces, helicopter strikes, and artillery fire. The AFU losses amounted to more than 50 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, three motor vehicles, as well as one D-20 howitzer. In South Donetsk direction, the Vostok Group of Forces, aviation, artillery, and heavy flamethrowers inflicted a complex defeat on manpower and hardware of the 31st Mechanised Brigade and the 128th Territorial Defence Brigade near Staromayorskoye and Urozhaynoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic). The AFU losses amounted to more than 180 Ukrainian troops killed and wounded, three armoured fighting vehicles, 11 motor vehicles, as well as one D-20 howitzer. Also, an ammunition depot of the AFUs 38th Marine Brigade was destroyed near Prechistovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic). In Kupyansk direction, air strikes and artillery fire of the Zapad Group of Forces hit manpower and hardware of the 14th, 30th, 92nd mechanised and 25th airborne brigades of the AFU, as well as the 103rd Territorial Defence Brigade near Sinkovka, Berestovoye (Kharkov region) and Novosyolovskoye and Artyomovka (Lugansk Peoples Republic). Up to 20 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, two motor vehicles, one U.S.-made M777 artillery system, and two Msta-B howitzers were destroyed. In Kherson direction, over 80 Ukrainian troops, five motor vehicles, and two D-30 howitzers have been destroyed during the day. Russian Defence Ministry Russian Defence Ministry report on the progress of the special military operation (18 September 2023) Part II (see Part I) Operational-Tactical and Army aviation, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Group of Forces have engaged AFU manpower and hardware in 123 areas during the day. Also, four command posts of the 67th and 110th mechanised brigades of the AFU and the 100th and 112th territorial defence brigades were hit near Torskoye, Serebryanka, and Avdeevka (Donetsk Peoples Republic). Russian air defence forces have intercepted five HIMARS MLRS shells during the day. Moreover, 27 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles were downed close to Spornoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic), Chervonopopovka (Lugansk Peoples Republic), Mirnoye, Proletarskoye, and Skelevatoye (Zaporozhye region), and Kokhany (Kherson region). In total, 472 airplanes, 249 helicopters, 6,865 unmanned aerial vehicles, 437 air defence missile systems, 11,931 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,151 fighting vehicles equipped with MLRS, 6,426 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 13,121 special military motor vehicles have been destroyed during the special military operation. Russian Defence Ministry WtR Spritzes are so last season. Ease your transition into fall with takes on the classic Italian cocktail during Negroni Week around the Bay Area. Plus, feed your inner bookworm at William Stout Architectural Books' two-week-long warehouse sale; catch a spate of great concerts ranging from Pete Davidson to Stephen Marley; catch up with author Zadie Smith at City Arts; and have a ball at the San Francisco Symphony's opening night gala. Have a good one! Bring your reading glasses to leaf through thousands of books on architecture, landscape, photography, art, design, and more: William Stout Architectural Books is holding a giant warehouse sale featuring inventory from the last 50 years. Hardcovers are $2, $1 for paperbacks; 10am to 4pm this Monday through Friday, and also September 25-29. // Stout Books Warehouse, 1312 S. 51st. St. (Richmond), stoutbooks.com Raise a glass to Negroni Week. Bay Area venues including Nopa, Tony's Pizza Napoletana, Rye, Kona's Street Market, and Terrene are pouring their takes on the Italian classic to benefit Slow Food; Monday through Sunday. // Learn more and find participating locations at negroniweek.com. Get a little giddy: SNL funny guy Pete Davidson is live from San Francisco on Wednesday night; 7pm. // The Masonic, 1111 California St. (Nob Hill); tickets at concerts.livenation.com Sate your soul when Stephen Marley brings his "Old Soul Unplugged" tour to the Fillmore stage; 8pm Thursday. // 1805 Geary Blvd. (NoPa); GA tickets available at concerts.livenation.com Take your movies with a side of impact: Glide's Social Justice Film Festival features four documentary shorts "rooted in transformation, empathy, and inclusion"; 6:30pm to 8:30pm Thursday. // Roxie Theater, 3117 16th St (Mission); for info and tickets, visit eventbrite.com. Meet for family-style dinner at Mr. Digbys monthly supper club. This week's menu goes to Italy with pizza rolls, ricotta gnocchi, vegetarian lasagna, and meatballs; 5pm to 9pm Thursday. // Mr. Digby's, 1199 Church St. (Noe Valley); reservations at OpenTable. Break out your black tie and have a ball at SF Symphony's Opening Night Gala on Friday. Led by Esa-Pekka Salonen, the performance will feature a mingling of music and tech; 5:30pm red carpet, 7pm concert, 8:30pm supper. // Davies Symphony Hall (Civic Center), sfsymphony.org Get author Zadie Smith's take (plus a copy of the book) on her new novel The Fraud,a historical fiction "about truth and fiction, Jamaica and Britain, fraudulence, authenticity, and the mystery of 'other people;'" 7:30pm Friday. // Sydney Goldstein Theater, 275 Hayes St. (Hayes Valley), cityarts.net Keep an open mind and ears for the singular sound of Snarky Puppy, the Texas-born multicultural music collective that defies definition but scoops up the Grammys; 8pm Friday. // Fox Theater, 1807 Telegraph Ave. (Oakland), thefoxoakland.com Rave it up old-school-style with Fatboy Slim. The acid house hitmaker of the '80s and '90s plays a secret warehouse location in Oakland; 9pm Friday. // Tickets and info at goldenvoice.com Spice up the weekend with the sounds of the cajon and the rhythms of bomba, fabulous footwork and flavorful cuisines at the Rhythmix Nuestros Colores Festival, celebrating Latin and Indigenous traditions and featuring an energetic lineup of local artists; noon to 4pm Saturday. // Chochenyo Park (Alameda); more details at rhythmix.org Embrace Karl and the 36th Annual Pacific Coast Fog Fest. The family-friendly event kicks off with a parade and float contest, followed by live music, local vendors, and plenty of food; 10am to 6pm Saturday and Sunday. // Palmetto Ave. (Pacifica), pacificcoastfogfest.com See the sunrise at Sensorio, artist Bruce Munro's dazzling light field on the Central Coast. At the first morning events of its kind you can enjoy coffee, pastries, and yoga (BYO mat) while you take in the stunning exhibit at daybreak; 4:30am to 7:30am Sunday. // 4380 CA-46 (Paso Robles), sensoriopaso.com Pick up your smoked fish, bagels and schmears, matzo balls, latkes, kugels and more from Wise Sons' Yom Kippur pop-ups ; starting at 10am Sunday. // Locations around the Bay Area; for info and ordering, go to wisesonsdeli.com/highholidays. Add a bit of culture to a day in Sausalito when you catch Project Space: Victoria Shen, an installation that experiments with sound and sonic objects; Sunday through Nov. 5. // Headlands Center for the Arts, 944 Fort Barry (Sausalito), headlands.org Karin Notbom-Healey lived in New York City for decades. But after her husband died, the 84-year-old started looking west to California, where her daughters family lives. The idea of living near family was enticing for everyone, but how to make it work? Notbom-Healeys daughter, Monique Marshall, 55, and her husband, DeMille Halliburton, 59, had a small, 1,200-square-foot house in Los Angeles but a big backyard, which included a garage. 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 Over time, the family transformed the garage into an airy space for Notbom-Healey, where she can entertain, listen to music and connect with her grandchildren. Heres how the project played out: Why: It was a no-brainer, says Marshall, an education consultant. After my stepdad died in 2021 and Moms rent skyrocketed, we knew she needed to leave the New York City apartment where shed lived almost 60 years. How: Notbom-Healey, a retired legal secretary, flew west with 10 boxes and a couple of bags and moved into her granddaughters bedroom the young adults camped in the living room as the garage reno took flight. We got pizza and beer and invited 15 neighbors to help clear out the junk and get it to the Salvation Army, says Halliburton, an insurance executive. Architect friends drafted plans for a 295-square-foot studio with a bedroom nook, kitchenette, no-step walk-in shower and tiled skylight. DeMille and Monique financed the construction, but Notbom-Healey insists on paying $1,000 a month in rent. Whoa: Building everything to code meant a new roof and new foundation more money and more time, DeMille says. The overhaul took nearly a year. Approximate cost: $120,000 Wow: Proudly independent, Notbom-Healey now spends her days listening to her beloved Chuck Mangione and John Coltrane records on vinyl and tending to an olive tree outside her accessory dwelling unit (ADU), where the ashes of her husband, Billy, are scattered. Theres daily family time, too, whether thats a morning walk to coffee or dinner together. Before the ADU, wed visit mom on summer vacations or quick holiday trips, but now shes an everyday part of the family, and that means everything, Marshall says. Notbom-Healey agrees: Ive never been happier in all my life. Featured Speakers: U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy Courtesy office of U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy Dr. Bill Cassidy is the senior United States senator for Louisiana. Sen. Cassidy grew up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and attended Louisiana State University (LSU) for undergraduate and medical school. In 1990, he joined LSU Medical School, teaching medical students and residents at Earl K. Long Hospital, a hospital for the uninsured. He serves on the Finance Committee, as the ranking member on the Health, Education, Labor & Pensions Committee (HELP), the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and the Veterans Affairs Committee. He is leading a bipartisan effort in the Senate to ensure Social Security remains solvent for Americas current and future retirees. Sen. Cassidy is married to Dr. Laura Cassidy and they have three children. U.S. Congressman John Larson Courtesy office of U.S. Congressman John Larson Congressman John B. Larson proudly represents Connecticut's First District. Now in his 13th term, Rep. Larson sits on the influential House Ways and Means Committee including the Subcommittee on Tax Policy and the Social Security Subcommittee, where he serves as the ranking member. Throughout his time in Congress, he has proven himself a staunch advocate for Connecticut's working families. As part of that effort, he introduced the Social Security 2100 Act to enhance benefits and ensure the foundation of our retirement system remains strong for generations. Rep. Larson is a lifelong resident of East Hartford, where he lives with his wife Leslie. They have three children: Carolyn, Laura and Raymond. Lloyd Johnson, Chair, AARP Board of Directors Eli Meir Kaplan Photography Lloyd E. Johnson holds an MBA degree and is a CPA. He is a former managing director and global chief audit executive with Accenture. He has more than 40 years of experience in governance, strategy, finance, mergers and acquisitions, information technology, cybersecurity and enterprise risk management with large multi-national corporations. He joined the AARP Board in 2014, serving as Board chair of AARP Foundation for four years and as AARP Board second vice chair, chairing the Audit and Finance Committee from 2020-2023. He also serves as a Board member of Apogee Enterprises and Beazer Homes, where he chairs their audit committees, and as a Board member of Haemonetics Corp. and VSE Corp. Jo Ann Jenkins, Chief Executive Officer, AARP TIMOTHY GREENFIELD-SANDERS As CEO of AARP, Jo Ann Jenkins leads the worlds largest nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization, harnessing the power and passion of almost 2,300 staff members, 60,000 volunteers and numerous strategic partners. Since joining the organization in 2010 and heading it since 2014, she has transformed AARP into a leader in social change, dedicated to empowering people to choose how they live as they age. Under her leadership, AARP received the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award and has been recognized as one of the Worlds Most Ethical Companies. Her best-selling book, Disrupt Aging: A Bold New Path to Living Your Best Life at Every Age, has become a signature rallying cry for revolutionizing societys views on aging by driving a new social consciousness and sparking innovative solutions for all generations. Moderated by: Capitol Hill Correspondent Lisa Desjardins Mike Morgan Lisa Desjardins is a correspondent for PBS NewsHour, where she covers news from the U.S. Capitol while also traveling across the country to report on how decisions in Washington affect people where they live and work. Prior to joining NewsHour, Desjardins spent nearly 10 years with CNN as a senior correspondent and Capitol Hill reporter. Desjardins earned a bachelors degree at the College of William and Mary and a masters degree from Northwestern Universitys Medill School of Journalism. Desjardins reporting during and after the January 6 Capitol insurrection was the recipient of a Peabody Award, the Radio and Television Correspondents Association Joan S. Barone Award, and the National Press Foundations Everett McKinley Dirksen Award for Distinguished Reporting of Congress. Five percent of people who cruise aboard Cruise Lines International Associations (CLIA) more than 50-member cruise line brands are opting to go solo a number that has roughly doubled compared to a decade ago, the organization found. This increase in demand has driven cruise lines to create more opportunities for solo cruise by retrofitting existing cabins to include solo cabins, providing solo-only areas and more, says Sally Andrews, vice president of strategic communications and public affairs for CLIA. Some cruise lines have reported that as many as 20 percent of their passengers are traveling solo. Julie Sayer, an independent cruise and vacation consultant in Tampa, Florida, says solo cruising was a trend before the pandemic, but it has really taken off after COVID. Just because [travelers] dont have a significant other or travel companion, they still want to see the world and go. 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 If that sounds like you, theres likely a solo cabin out there with your name on it. Cruise lines offering solo cabins and solo activities From ocean liners to small ships, solo cabins are becoming increasingly available. This is important because passengers avoid paying single supplement surcharges or full price on double-occupancy-based cabins. Solo travel has been on the rise for several years, which is why since 2016 with the introduction of our Pinnacle Class ships, weve offered dedicated single staterooms for our guests, says Michael Smith, senior vice president, guest experience and product development, at Holland America Line. Norwegian Cruise Line was the first to introduce studio stateroom accommodations designed for solo travelers (with no single supplement fee required) in 2010. The line now offers studio staterooms on nine of its 19 ships, including the new Norwegian Viva, which debuted in August 2023. Solo passengers can book single staterooms aboard Holland Americas Rotterdam cruise ship. Michel Verdure / Courtesy of Holland America Line In addition to Holland America and Norwegian Cruise Lines, cruise lines known for ample single staterooms include Celebrity (Celebrity Beyond has 32 single staterooms, all with verandas), Royal Caribbean Cruises, MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises and P&O Cruises. In response to the growing demand for solo options, Oceania Cruises recently debuted retrofitted solo staterooms on each vessel in its small-ship fleet. Our guests and travel partners wanted more options for solo travelers and more diverse tour offerings, and we are delighted to deliver, says Nikki F. Upshaw, senior vice president of global sales at Oceania. Oceanias newest ship, Vista, offers six solo staterooms with oversized private verandas. There are more solo cabins coming down the pipeline, too, including aboard Princess Cruises Sun Princess, which will have four solo cabins a first for one of the lines new builds when it launches in 2024. Most of the ships with solo staterooms also offer designated lounges, events and classes for passengers traveling alone. For example, aboard participating Oceania ships, guests receive a list of the scheduled solo gatherings at the start of the day. Holland America Line also schedules events such as trivia contests and exercise classes to encourage people to meet. Extremist Islam challenges Fatah in Lebanon By Yoni Ben Menachem web posted September 18, 2023 On July 30, 2023, fighting broke out in the Ain al-Hilweh refugee camp near Sidon after the assassination of a senior officer from Fatah, Maj. Gen. Abu Ashraf Al-Aramoushi. The attackers were believed to be members of Jund al-Sham, an Islamist faction affiliated with al-Qaeda. Al-Aramoushi, a commander of the Palestinian national security forces in Sidon, was assassinated in Ain al-Hilweh with his three bodyguards on July 30, 2023. Fighting in Ain al-Hilweh The Lebanese army called for an immediate ceasefire. Under an agreement between the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and the Lebanese government, Lebanese military forces are prohibited from entering Palestinian refugee camps. Instead, the maintenance of security in these camps falls under the purview of Palestinian factions through a joint security force. The Fighting Resumed In the wake of these recent battles, hundreds of families from Ain Al-Hilweh fled their homes. Eight UNRWA-run schools, which would typically provide shelter to the homeless, are in the control of the Islamist forces. At the same time, nearby Sidon does not permit the refugees' relocation. A tent encampment established there by the UN had to be dismantled. The Fatah movement has accused extremist Islamic groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and ISIS, whose members have crossed over from Syria, of attempting to seize control of the campthe largest in Lebanon. Was a PA Official the Catalyst? Officials in Lebanon contend that the violence erupted following the visit of the head of Palestinian Authority Intelligence, Majed Faraj, to Beirut last month, during which he held discussions with senior officials in the Lebanese government. The PA is actively working to reinforce its control within Lebanese refugee camps, thwart the takeover attempts by jihadist Islamic groups and Hamas, and establish new Fatah leadership, thereby neutralizing the centers of power aligned with Muhammad Dahlan, a political rival of PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas. Abbas strives to strengthen his position among Palestinian refugees in Lebanon. According to Lebanese sources, Faraj brought substantial financial resources to Lebanon to garner support from Fatah activists within the refugee camps. The Palestinian Authority is apprehensive that the extremist Islamic elements' potential takeover of Ain al-Hilweh could set a dangerous precedent for other refugee camps. The ongoing conflict will likely persist as the Fatah movement is determined to prevent extremist Islamic organizations from seizing this crucial power base in Lebanon. A truce was reached on August 3, but fighting resumed on August 8, 2023, when Fatah demanded that Jund al-Sham turn over Gen. Abu Ashraf Al-Aramoushi's killers and that gunmen surrender their positions in schools. Najib Mikati, Lebanon's interim prime minister, contacted PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas on September 9, 2023, to discuss the latest developments in Ain Al-Hilwa following the resumption of hostilities. Mikati stressed the priority of ceasing all military action and cooperating with the Lebanese security services to address the existing tensions. The Prime Minister said: What is happening does not serve the Palestinian cause at all and constitutes a grave insult to the Lebanese state in general, particularly to the city of Sidon, which embraces the Palestinian brothers. What is required in return is that they deal with the Lebanese state in accordance with its laws and regulations, preserving the safety of its citizens. Yoni Ben Menachem, a veteran Arab affairs and diplomatic commentator for Israel Radio and Television, is a senior Middle East analyst for the Jerusalem Center. He served as Director General and Chief Editor of the Israel Broadcasting Authority. Home Multiple New Zones of LCT Pegmatite up to 4.6 % LI2O Perth, Sep 18, 2023 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Venus Metals Corporation Limited ( ASX:VMC ) is pleased to provide a further update on its Youanmi Lithium Project (VMC 100%). A very successful follow-up mapping and sampling field programme has been completed at the Deep South Prospect which delineated two new zones with outcropping LCT pegmatites, south from Lithium-rich pegmatites reported previously (ASX release 24 August 2023). Highlights - Geological mapping shows three main zones of outcropping Lithium-rich pegmatite over a 300m x 200m area. Referred to as Central Zone (up to 4.5 %Li2O), East Zone (up to 4.6 %Li2O), and North Zone (up to 4.6 %Li2O), common areas of high lithium grade are associated with coarse grained Petalite (LiAlSi4O10), a lithium mineral with similar composition to Spodumene and known to occur with Spodumene in other Lithium deposits in the region (e.g. Mt Holland). - The northerly trending Central Zone is interpreted to dip gently towards east with the orientation of the other two zones yet to be determined. - The mapped LCT pegmatites correlate with broad geochemical anomaliesfor caesium (up to 10,591 ppm Cs) and tin (up to 473 ppm Sn), consistent with an extensive intrusive system. The Deep South mineralization is shaping up as a significant new lithium find and exploration has been accelerated to better understand the dimensions of the pegmatites and map the distribution of lithium minerals within them. Preparations are made for a reverse circulation (RC) drilling programme to test the depth extent of outcropping pegmatites and explore for additional LCT pegmatites below extensive areas of cover. Matt Hogan, MD of Venus commented: "These follow-up rock sampling results received are outstanding with up to 4.6% Li2O and expand the lithium-rich pegmatites over 300m X 200m into three known zones which potentially only represent a small section of the mineralized system in this poorly exposed area". Project Background The Deep South Prospect is located in the southern part of tenement E57/1078, about 450 km NE of Perth and 44 km south from the Youanmi Gold Mine. Lithium mineralization was discovered by Venus following a regional Ultrafine (UF)soil sampling programme that outlined an extensive, 1.4km x 0.4km, northeasterly trending lithium anomaly (>110ppmLi; ASX release 6 July 2023). Field checks showed common thin sand cover over poorly outcropping bedrock that comprise mafic/ultramafic and granitoid rocks including pegmatite. Lithium-rich pegmatite was first identified in two outcrops at North Zone (Figure 1*) returning samples with 4.6 %Li2O and 3.26 %Li2O respectively (ASX release 24 August 2023). The Deep South Prospect is situated some 1.5 km east from the Youanmi Fault Zone, a crustal-scale structure that defines the tectonic boundary between the Southern Cross and Murchison Domains within the Youanmi Terrane of the Archaean Yilgarn Craton (Figure 2*). This domain boundary may have been a focus for the emplacement of LCT pegmatites. The Mt Holland Lithium Project (189 Mt @ 1.5 %Li2O) is located 350 km south from Deep South, also along the western margin of the Southern Cross Domain as is the Mount Cattlin Deposit a further 150 km to the south (Figure 2*). Noteworthy is that at the Earl Gray Deposit at Mt Holland both Lithium aluminosilicates Petalite (LiAlSi4O10) and Spodumene (LiAl(SiO3)2) are present and are the most abundant lithium-bearing minerals. Recent Results The current fieldwork included the collection of rock-chip samples and additional UF soil samples (200m x 200m and 50m x 50m grids). Selected assay results for rock-chip samples (>0.5 %Li2O) are presented in Table 1*. UF soil sample analyses are in progress. Field mapping identified three main areas of outcropping lithium-rich pegmatite, referred to as North Zone, Central Zone and East Zone, all within a 300m x 200m area (Figure 1*). X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses of rock samples show that Petalite is the main lithium mineral in the outcropping pegmatites. The rock-chip sampling results further indicate that anomalous concentrations of caesium (up to 1.05 %Cs) and tin (up to 473 ppm Sn) are present within pegmatite and adjacent ultramafic rocks over a much larger area than outlined by the Petalite-rich pegmatites, indicating an extensive intrusive system of LCT pegmatites. Further Work The Company is currently preparing a drilling program to test the lithium-rich zones and the broader Cs-Sn geochemical anomaly. This will provide a better understanding of the true size and orientation of Lithium pegmatites and, importantly, will identify possible variability in Lithium mineralogy. For example, at the Earl Grey Lithium deposit (Mount Holland) different Lithium minerals dominate separate geological domains within the deposit. The Spodumene, Petalite, and alteration assemblages are restricted to distinct zones within the Earl Grey pegmatite and are strongly correlated with individual fault blocks and their bounding structures. Exploration at Deep South is at a very early stage and currently known outcropping Lithium pegmatites in this poorly exposed area potentially may only represent a relatively small part of the mineralized system. *To view tables and figures, please visit: https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/DYUDJJ55 About Venus Metals Corporation Limited Venus Metals Corporation Limited (ASX:VMC) is a West Australian based Company with a focus on gold, base metals, vanadium and lithium exploration projects. The Company aims to increase shareholder value through targeted exploration success on its projects. The Company's major gold project is the Youanmi Gold Mine, located 500km north-east of Perth. The Youanmi Gold Mine is now jointly owned by Venus Metals (30%) and Rox Resources Limited (70%); Indicated and Inferred Resource of the mine is in excess of 3 million ounces of gold. Related Companies $31.6M Equity Raising Completed Perth, Sep 18, 2023 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Cyprium Metals Limited ( ASX:CYM ) is pleased to announce the capital raising via a placement (Placement) and a pro rata non-renounceable entitlement offer (Entitlement Offer) was oversubscribed, raising a total of $31.6 million before costs (Equity Raising). - $24M Placement to Sophisticated and Institutional Investors Completed - $5M Entitlement Offer closed oversubscribed raising $7.6M from book build and shareholder demand - $21M (US$14.5M) Bridging Facility Completed last quarter - Placement received significant demand from numerous new and existing high quality domestic and offshore institutions, family offices and private equity investors - Investor support for the Equity Raising provides a strong endorsement of Cyprium's strategy to restart the Nifty operation as a long-life large scale open pit mine - Mr Clive Donner, an experienced mining industry executive, appointed as Managing Director - Leading private equity firm Pacific Road Capital Management (PRCM) has subscribed for $8.3M in the Equity Raising to hold a 15.5% interest in the Company - Mr Matt Fifield, Managing Director of PRCM, appointed to the Board as Interim Chair Clive Donner, Managing Director commented: "The Board is very appreciative of the strong support from current shareholders and welcomes a number of new institutional investors onto the register. The oversubscribed Equity Raising has now been completed, which together with the US$14.5 million Bridging Facility closed last quarter, provides the Company with the capital to advance the Nifty technical studies and finalise an appropriate development funding package next year. This will enable the delivery and execution of our strategy to restart the Nifty Project as a larger scale open pit copper operation." The Company has completed the Placement to issue 600 million new shares (Placement Shares) at an offer price of $0.04 per share (Offer Price), raising $24 million. The Placement was strongly supported by sophisticated and professional investors, including numerous new and existing high quality domestic and offshore natural resources focused institutions, family offices and private equity investors. The Company has also completed the Entitlement Offer under which it has issued 125 million new shares (Entitlement Shares) at the Offer Price, raising $5 million. The oversubscriptions in this Entitlement Offer shortfall enabled the Company to place an additional 65.5 million new shares being issued at the Offer Price, raising a further $2.6 million. The Company's Secured Loan financier, Nebari Natural Resources Credit Fund II, LP (Nebari), subscribed for $0.5 million of the Entitlement Offer shortfall. Leading private equity firm and existing shareholder, Pacific Road Capital Management (PRCM), subscribed for $8.26 million in the Equity Raising, representing a 15.54% interest in the Company post-Equity Raising. Each participant in the Equity Raising received 1 free attaching option for every 2 Shares to issued under the Equity Raising (Options). The Options will be exercisable at $0.06 each, on or before 31 December 2024. Canaccord Genuity (Australia) Limited acted as the Lead Manager to the Placement. Steinepreis Paganin acted as legal adviser to Cyprium. Board and Management Changes Appointment of Mr Clive Donner as Managing Director Cyprium is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Clive Donner as Managing Director of the Company, effective immediately. Mr Donner is an experienced mining private equity and financing expert who has financed over 50 mines globally. He founded and actively managed 2 private equity funds which focussed on emerging and mid-tier mining companies. Mr Donner was previously a Director of Rothschild Australia responsible for mine development financing. Mr Donner has been engaged to lead the raising of the required debt and equity capital, developing the assets of the Company and building the Company into a mid-tier copper producer. The material terms of Mr Donner's employment agreement were provided in CYM ASX Announcement dated 12 July 2023, "Firm Commitments received for $24M Conditional Placement and announcement of $5M Entitlement Offer". Mr Donner participated in the Placement. Appointment of Mr Matt Fifield as Interim Chair Cyprium is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Matt Fifield as a Non-Executive Interim Chair of the Company, effective immediately. Mr Fifield is the Managing Director of Pacific Road Capital, a leading resource investment firm that has managed over $1 billion in funds raised to develop and enhance resource companies around the world. Mr Fifield has participated in over $10 billion of capital raising and M&A transactions across his career and is a leading voice on responsible resource investing. He is a frequent speaker and contributor around issues of sustainable development practices. In his role as Non-Executive Interim Chair, Mr Fifield will receive a salary of $60,000 per annum. Resignation of Mr Barry Cahill as Managing Director Mr Barry Cahill has resigned from the Board and as Managing Director, effective immediately. The Company thanks Mr Cahill for his service to the Company. Transition of Mr Gary Comb as Chair to Non-executive Director Mr Gary Comb has stepped down from the role of Chair of the Board following the appointment of Matt Fifield, effective immediately. Mr Comb will continue as a Non-executive Director of the Company. The Company thanks Mr Comb for his service as Chair. Appointment of Mr Milan Jerkovic as Chief Operating Officer Cyprium is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Milan Jerkovic Chief Operating officer of the Company, effective immediately. Mr Jerkovic is an experienced mining veteran who will assist in the execution of the development plan for Nifty and provide leadership input to the development team in the Company. Mr Jerkovic has previously built resource companies from early stage, under-financed geological opportunities to fully engineered, built operations and capitalized companies. About Cyprium Metals Ltd Cyprium Metals Limited (ASX:CYM) is poised to grow to a mid-tier mining business and manage a portfolio of Australian copper projects to deliver vital natural resources, strong shareholder returns and sustainable value for our stakeholders. We pursue this aim, in genuine partnerships with employees, customers, shareholders, local communities and other stakeholders, which is based on integrity, co-operation, transparency and mutual value creation. Related Companies State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Zip Code Cover Images/Darla Khazei Movie The 59-year-old 'Ghost Rider' actor loves the idea of 'playing a bit older than his own age' in his next feature film where he is expected to play a retired hit man. Sep 18, 2023 AceShowbiz - Nicolas Cage relished the idea of being aged up for "The Retirement Plan". The 59-year-old actor plays a retired assassin in director Tim Brown's new movie, and he was quick to get on board for the project because not only did he like the script, but he was intrigued at the thought of playing someone a decade older. "I sent Mike [Nilon], his manager, the script, and he responded. He said that he thought it was really funny. He loved the family theme that's running through it," Tim told The Hollywood reporter when discussing how he got the "Pig" star on board. "He loved the idea of playing a grandfather and playing a bit older than his own age. So he liked the idea of being aged up, and that was pretty much it. We talked a lot about the material, and the comedy really drew him to it." The filmmaker praised the "City of Angels" actor for his "phenomenal" comic ability and the special qualities he brings to his work. He said, "I don't know if he ever gets enough credit for being a tremendous comic actor because he does so much drama and action, but his comic ability is phenomenal." "He has an ability to improvise and add just a little twist of something that I refer to as the 'Nic Cage spice'. It's hard to explain, but you love it. So he brought his Nic Cage-ism to this role in the Caymans with us, as he does in every role that he does, and I got really lucky that he liked the material." And Tim was grateful for Nicolas' improvisation skills. He said, "I always found that Nic is great out of the gate and he finds more improvisation and looseness in the more takes that he does." Discussing his most memorable day of filming, he added, "I think it'd be the day that we were shooting the balcony scene, and his daughter [Ashley Greene] says, 'Are you some kind of assassin or something?' And I had written a line for that moment, but Nic turned to me and said, 'What if I didn't say anything and just looked at her and [sheepishly laughed]?' " "It was something that only he can do, and to this day, it's the highlight of the film for me, because it shows how great he is at doing nothing except a little expression. It just added so much to it. So that would probably be my most memorable day." You can share this post! INSTARimages.com/Instagram Celebrity When speaking in a new interview, Jeffery Williams, Sr. said Gunna entered the guilty plea because his attorney convinced him that it was the right thing to do. Sep 18, 2023 AceShowbiz - Young Thug's father has spoken in defense of Gunna amid Thugger's incarceration. While the "Pushin P" hitmaker has been accused of being a "rat" in the YSL RICO case, Jeffery Williams, Sr. insisted that the emcee didn't do anything that "can hurt" his family. "I love Gunna," Jeffery said in an interview with Infamous Sylvia. "Let me try to help the attorney clarify that a little simpler. Gunna hasnt done anything whatsoever that can hurt us on this case. Period." According to Jeffery, Gunna entered the guilty plea because his attorney convinced him that it was the right thing to do. Gunna has been accused of snitching after he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act on December 14, 2022. He took an Alford plea, meaning that he entered a guilty plea to the one charge while maintaining his innocence on that same charge as a form of self-preservation. He was sentenced to five years in prison, but it was commuted to time served. His legal team has shut down the snitching allegations. "Gunna has never been interviewed by or cooperated with law enforcement or prosecutors in the RICO case," read a statement issued by Steve Sadow, co-lead defense council of the rap star. "Nor have his attorneys proffered information on his behalf." "What was said at his Alford plea hearing was solely to resolve his own case," the statement added. "It cannot be used by the prosecution against Young Thug or any other defendant." Gunna himself suggested on his song "bread & butter" that he keeps loyal to Thugger, who is still currently behind bars. "Never f**ked a n***a, always stayed solid/ Kept it real with n***as, never lied and always stay honest, he raps. "Love my bro so much, I never change on 'em/ Hunna Wunna goin' do the work, bring you the damn profits." You can share this post! Cover Images/Instagram/Robert Bell/INSTARimages Celebrity The 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' actor and James Blunt have become business partners as they both invested in LOCI, after being introduced to the company by the British royal. Sep 18, 2023 AceShowbiz - Leonardo DiCaprio has become a business partner of James Blunt. The 48-year-old actor and James, 49, have both reportedly invested in LOCI, a British vegan sneakers brand, after being persuaded to support the company by Princess Eugenie, their mutual friend. A source told The Sun newspaper's Bizarre column, "Eugenie was introduced to the brand by her good pal Sofia, James' wife, and attended its launch event last year. She is connected to Leo through some of her Hollywood pals and inspired him to invest last summer." The sneakers have actually become popular with various members of the royal family. The insider added, "[Eugenie] has since introduced the trainers to Prince Harry and [Meghan Markle] as well as other environmentally-friendly royals. James has now invested too, so he is technically in business with Leo. It's random but a cool connection for them both." The company uses "premium repurposed ocean and land plastic" and is also popular with the likes of Ed Sheeran and Ben Affleck. Leonardo is well-known for his environmental activism and in 2016, he starred in a documentary film called "Before the Flood" that focused on the issue of climate change. Speaking about the documentary, he previously explained, "We went to every corner of the globe to document the devastating impacts of climate change and questioned humanity's ability to reverse what may be the most catastrophic problem mankind has ever faced. There was a lot to take in." "All that we witnessed on this journey shows us that our world's climate is incredibly interconnected and that it is at urgent breaking point," the Oscar winner added. "We wanted to create a film that gave people a sense of urgency, that made them understand what particular things are going to solve this problem." You can share this post! The left's double standards with hypocrisy and forgiveness regarding Rep. Lauren Boebert By Rachel Alexander web posted September 18, 2023 The left-leaning mainstream media is blasting fake outrage over Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) getting escorted out of a theater with her boyfriend for vaping, taking some video of the performance, and briefly putting her hand in his lap. I've never heard of anyone getting kicked out of a theater for something that minor; usually people get kicked out for things like fights, having sex, and getting really drunk. Remember Pee-wee Herman? It was dark in the Colorado theater, but strangely there was an infrared camera directly on Boebert, and even stranger, the video was leaked to the public. In contrast, whenever video favors Republicans, there are always tons of fake excuses provided to prevent it from being released. Look at how long it took for the government to release the J6 video surveillance. The high-profile trials of the J6 defendants aren't being filmed for the public, even though it's tradition to stream trials like that; everyone older remembers breathlessly watching the O.J. Simpson trial and more recently the Johnny Depp-Amber Heard libel trial. Meanwhile, far worse behavior on the left has been mostly ignored, such as by Democrat Susanna Gibson running for the Virginia House of Delegates, who posted sex videos with her husband online and asked for money. Nothing has happened to her, she's still running and the Democrats are defending her, in fact raising money for her off of the scandal. Boebert apologized for her minor slip-up. In contrast, Gibson, who says she has an open marriage with her husband and offered to film herself and her husband engaging in sodomy in exchange for money from viewers, is not apologizing, and is instead blaming whoever released the video. The left celebrated a topless trans person partying at the White House and a mayor getting spanked at a public event by a drag queen. The late Senator Ted Kennedy got drunk, attempted to cheat on his wife with another woman, then drove his date off a bridge into the water where he left her and she drowned. He instructed everyone to remain silent about the death, and nothing ever happened to him as his career in the Senate soared. Compounding the problem is all of the holier-than-thou people on the right piling on. Former Trump attorney Jenna Ellis, who is expected by many to turn on Trump during the Georgia prosecution due to her selling out to the Colorado State Bar last year, said on X that the Colorado GOP needs to primary Boebert. Ellis, who is now supporting Ron DeSantis for president, is known for frequently citing the Bible to defend RINO positions, such as when she admitted to the Colorado State Bar that she made "misrepresentations" when she said there was fraud in the 2020 election. The left and its helpful enablers on the right such as Ellis like to use Old Testament judgment against Christians, while ignoring the New Testament where Jesus preached forgiveness. It's rather hypocritical, considering if the left doesn't believe in Biblical principles, why would it use something "made up" and a "fairytale" to judge others? It's even more hypocritical when you consider the left conveniently ignores one of the few verses that it loves to cherry pick from the Bible, directly from Jesus, "Judge not, that ye be not judged." Or Jesus when he said, "You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye." It's become pretty amazing watching how moralistic and judgmental the left has become in recent years, considering they love to accuse Christians of being the judgmental ones. The left is more judgmental of Donald Trump's rumored dalliances with extramarital affairs than the Christian right is, since the Christian right preaches forgiveness. The left, which always sounds so silly to those of us who have studied the Bible extensively, pretends that everyone on the right must be sinless like Jesus, which is actually blasphemous since the Bible says no human is perfect. Considering approximately 20% of married men in the U.S. have had affairs on their wives, it's not against the law and the fact that Trump has never held himself out as a super devout Christian, the condemnation is a joke. The reality is if a left-wing woman had done what Boebert had done, it wouldn't have even made the news. Odds are it wouldn't have ever left the theater; the video wasn't racy enough to leak. I suspect either someone working there was a Democratic operative the arts are heavily dominated by the left or was pressured or paid by a Democratic operative to leak it. The Democrats are claiming that Gibson was criticized due to sexism, but Republican men have done far less than that and were viciously attacked. Conservative commentator Dinesh D'Souza, one of the brightest minds today, has been bashed for years by the left for merely sharing a hotel room at a Christian conference with a woman after he and his wife separated. Boebert was targeted because she has a 98.53% lifetime rating from the American Conservative Union, almost the highest in Congress; and dares to take stands on issues that many Republican members of Congress wouldn't dare to. Since she won reelection last fall by 546 votes, the left sees her as vulnerable so they are trying to create controversy. Boebert apologized, unlike many on the left who have no remorse when they do far worse. But as we all know about the left, if they didn't have hypocritical standards, they'd have no standards at all. Rachel Alexander and her brother Andrew are co-Editors of Intellectual Conservative. She has been published in the American Spectator, Townhall.com, Fox News, NewsMax, Accuracy in Media, The Americano, ParcBench, Enter Stage Right and other publications. Home Instagram Music When a fan asks why the 'Monster's Ball' actress is 'mad' that the Canadian artist uses her photo, which is 'owned by Getty Images,' for his cover art, she claims that the rapper ignored her response to his permission request. Sep 18, 2023 AceShowbiz - Halle Berry has justified her anger toward Drake for using an image of her getting slimed at the 2012 Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards as the cover art for his new single. Further sharing her side of the story, the actress claimed that the rapper ignored her response to his permission request. When a fan asked on Halle's initial statement about Drizzy's cover art why she's so "mad" since the photo is "owned by Getty Images," the Oscar winner said the Canadian star initially reached out to her for permission and she turned him down, but he still used the photo anyway. "While I do understand your side. That photo is owned by Getty Images, So im sure he got their permission. And paid the fee. Why you mad," the fan asked in the comments section of Halle's Instagram post. The 57-year-old then responded, "Cuz he asked me and I said NO that's why." She went on stressing, "Why ask if you intend to do what you want to do ! That was the f**k you to me. Not cool You get it?" adding a heart emoji to her fan. The "John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum" star's clarification comes two days after she publicly expressed her disappointment at Drake for using the image to promote his new song with SZA, "Slime You Out". She initially posted on her Instagram account on Friday, September 15, "Sometimes you have to be the bigger guy ... Even if you're a woman!" In the comments section of her cryptic post, a follower asked Halle's opinion on Drake's cover art. "@halleyberry, what are your thoughts of Drake using that picture of you for his single?" the fan wrote. In response, Halle declared, "didn't get my permission. That's not cool. I thought better of him!" She then added, "Hence my post today. When people you admire disappoint you, you have to be the bigger person and move on!" When another said that Halle "should actually be happy" because Drake made her "relevant" again, the "Monster's Ball" star said "relevancy" was not what she "was in search of." She additionally agreed with a comment that supported her, insisting it's about "principles and integrity." Drake teased his new song with the photo ahead of the release of "Slime You Out" on Friday. He ended up not using the image though. When the song arrived later that day, he used a viral image of a dog that was drawn by his son Adonis. You can share this post! Cover Images/Dutch Press Photo Celebrity At the event in Dusseldorf on Saturday, September 16, the Duke of Sussex seemingly took a jab at the royal family's decision to ban him from wearing his military uniform at recent royal events. Sep 18, 2023 AceShowbiz - Prince Harry spoke out after being accused of throwing shade at the British royal family at the 2023 Invictus Games closing ceremony. At the event in Dusseldorf on Saturday evening, September 16, the Duke of Sussex seemingly took a jab at the royal family's decision to ban him from wearing his military uniform at recent royal events. "A week ago I stood here and told you about the significance of being able to wear your nation's flag again," Harry said during his speech. "So many of you have told me that hit you right here. For many of you the uniform you've been wearing this past week will give you a new story to tell." The husband of Meghan Markle went on to say, "And for others, it may give your old uniform new meaning. But I'm here to remind you that after all of this, you don't need to rely on a uniform, nor should you feel lost without one. Because everything you need is already within you." A representative for Harry, however, denied the speculations. Speaking to The Post, the rep said, "Watch the speech and you will see there is no truth to this. His words were about the competitors, no one else. This is nothing more than click-bait speculation." Harry, who is a veteran of two tours of Afghanistan during his decade in the British Army, was not allowed to wear his Blues and Royals No. 1 dress uniform at either his grandmother Queen Elizabeth II's funeral in September 2022, or at his father King Charles Coronation in May this year. The decision was made due to his status as a non-working senior member of the royal family. The prince was stripped of his titles in 2020 when he and Meghan relocated to California. As for the Invictus Games, the event and organization was founded by Harry in 2014 to support injured veterans. The father of two wrote in his memoir "Spare" that he was inspired to create the event when he shared the plane with injured personnel when returning home from his own tour of Afghanistan. You can share this post! Cover Images/thecelebrityfinder Celebrity The former Governator, who grew up in Austria and was granted U.S. citizenship in 1983, marks 'one of the proudest days' of his life by sharing a video montage of his years in America. Sep 18, 2023 AceShowbiz - Arnold Schwarzenegger is celebrating 40 years since he became a U.S. citizen. The Hollywood action man grew up in Austria but moved to America in 1968 when he was 21 to pursue his dreams of becoming a champion bodybuilder and he swore his oath of allegiance to the U.S. 20 years later when he was granted citizenship in 1983, and he has remembered his big moment four decades later. In a post on Instagram on Saturday, September 16, Arnold shared a video montage of his years in the U.S. and wrote, "On this day 40 years ago, I became an American citizen. It is one of the proudest days of my life. I owe everything to America. Born in Austria, Made in America!" The actor-turned-politician set the clip to audio of his 2004 speech at the Republican National Convention in New York City after becoming Governor of California a year earlier. In the speech, he declared, "My fellow Americans, this an amazing moment for me. To think a once-scrawny boy from Austria could grow up to become governor of the state of California, that is an immigrants dream." "In school when the teacher would talk about America, I would daydream about coming here. I would daydream about living here," he continued. "As long as I live, I will never forget the day when I raised my hand for the oath of citizenship. You know how proud I was? I was so proud that I walked around with the American flag wrapped around my shoulder all day long." "I finally arrived here in 1968. What a special day it was," he added. "I remembered I arrived here with empty pockets but full of dreams, full of determination and full of desire. Everything about America seemed so big to me, so open, so possible." The "Terminator" star finished by declaring, "To my fellow immigrants listening tonight, I want you to know how welcomed you are. We encourage your dreams. We believe in your future." You can share this post! SunnyMarch Movie Director Mahalia Belo heaps praise on her leading lady for her 'tenacity' and courage in bringing her character to life in new survival movie 'The End We Start From'. Sep 18, 2023 AceShowbiz - "The End We Start From" director Mahalia Belo has praised Jodie Comer's "courageous" acting. The director has sat behind the lens for the new survival film - which features the "Killing Eve" star as a mother who flees flooded London with her baby after an environmental disaster - and was impressed by the clever methods Jodie used to bring her character to life and the way she placed her trust in those behind the camera. "The way she deals with every scene and the babies, she's just brilliant. She carried this character completely and so beautifully. She was a partner in this whole process, from beginning to end, and journeyed with me through the whole thing," Belo told Collider at the Toronto International Film Festival. Belo was particularly impressed by Comer's acting in scenes that required improvisation as she filmed with the baby. The director explained, "So, if the baby was doing something she would naturally react to the baby. But also, there's a gutsiness to what she does. In this film, she had to go places, and she wanted to do that. I think sometimes that kind of tenacity as an actor is being incredibly brave." Belo also revealed how Jodie, 30, was desperate to ensure that scenes of her character giving birth in the movie were completed "authentically." She explained, "Jodie hasn't had a baby, so a lot of the way through this whole journey, I had to - not just me but other people in her life - I had to make sure that the reality of that was held." "And so she was looking to me quite a lot for that and trusting me that it was right. She gives birth at the beginning, and that's a very particular experience, and for her to have to kind of create that authentically was really important to both of us, and I was there hopefully holding her through that." You can share this post! Instagram Celebrity The explosive scandal involving the 'Forgetting Sarah Marshall' actor has reportedly snow-balled as more women are said to have come forward to condemn him. Sep 19, 2023 AceShowbiz - More women have reportedly come forward with abuse allegations against Russell Brand. The 48-year-old comedian is facing accusations of rape, sexual assault, and emotional abuse from four women at the height of his career in a bombshell expose from The Times, Sunday Times and Channel 4's "Dispatches" but now the outlets have claimed that "several other women" have now come forward with their own accusations against the star. The allegations are yet to be investigated but are said to have been "rigorously checked" and come shortly after both the BBC and Channel 4 announced their own plans to launch investigations into the accusations made against their former employee, according to the outlet. In a statement, a BBC spokesman said, "The documentary and associated reports contained serious allegations, spanning a number of years. Russell Brand worked on BBC radio programmes between 2006 and 2008 and we are urgently looking into the issues raised In the wake of the accusations, Channel 4 has also removed episodes of 'The Great British Bake Off' and 'Big Brother's Big Mouth' in which Russell - who has denied all allegations - appeared from their on-demand catchup service." Ahead of The Times publishing their report, Brand shared a two minute, 45 second video on YouTube and X strongly denying the claims and arguing the allegations were part of a "serious, concerted agenda" to control "spaces" such as his online outlet. He said, "I've received two extremely disturbing letters or a letter and an email. One from a mainstream media TV company, one from a newspaper listing a litany of extremely egregious and aggressive attacks, as well as some pretty stupid stuff like community festival should be stopped, that I shouldn't be able to attack mainstream media narratives on this channel. But amidst this litany of astonishing rather baroque attacks, often very serious allegations that I absolutely refute." You can share this post! Instagram/Cover Images/Janet Mayer Celebrity In a resurfaced television interview amid serious allegations against him, the 'Get Him to the Greek' actor boasted about 'planting one on' the Duchess of Sussex. Sep 19, 2023 AceShowbiz - Russell Brand once bragged about having "planted one on" Meghan, Duchess of Sussex. The 48-year-old comic - who was accused over the weekend of sexually, physically and emotionally abusing four women at the height of his fame - shared screen with the former actress, who was known as Meghan Markle at the time, in his 2010 comedy "Get Him to the Greek" and shortly before the duchess married Prince Harry in 2018, Brand recalled how they had locked lips while filming. The outspoken star, who has denied the allegations against him, admitted however that he wasn't "paying attention" to who Meghan was when she played the small role of partygoer Tatiana in the film because she wasn't famous at the time. "Before you go off, she was in a film I was in, 'Get Him to the Greek' it was called - a bloody good film," he said on "Loose Women". "I didn't know her at the time cause she wasn't married to a royal person so I weren't paying attention ... I don't remember the film that much... still out of it... I think I planted one on her. It was scripted in the scene; I only know this because I think I saw a clip of it somewhere." Russell - who was previously married to Katy Perry and is now wed to Laura Gallacher, who is pregnant with his third child - then joked that the revelation could put a stop to Meghan becoming part of the British royal family as 33-year-old Harry's wife. He said, "They should bring that up [at the wedding] ... if anyone has any reason ... yeah Russell Brand snogged her in the film!" One woman has alleged Brand raped her in his Los Angeles home, while another accused him of grooming her as they were involved in an allegedly "emotionally abusive and controlling relationship" for three months when she was just 16 and still at school, and he was 31. A third accuser claimed the comic sexually assaulted her while she worked with him in Los Angeles, and that he threatened to take legal action if she told anyone else about her allegation, and a fourth detailed the alleged sexual, physical and emotional abuse she was subjected to. Ahead of The Times publishing their report, Brand shared a 2 minute, 45 second video on YouTube and X strongly denying the claims and arguing the allegations were part of a "serious, concerted agenda" to control "spaces" such as his online outlet. You can share this post! 20th Century Studios releases A Haunting in Venice, an unsettling supernatural thriller based upon Agatha Christies novel Halloween Party. Its the third film in the $490 million film franchise that began with Murder on the Orient Express (2017) and continued with Death on the Nile (2022). Kenneth Branagh returns as director, producer, and star of the latest installment, from a screenplay by Michael Green. Set in eerie, post-World War II Italy on All Hallows Eve, A Haunting in Venice finds the renowned (but now retired) sleuth Hercule Poirot (Branagh) living in self-imposed exile in the worlds most glamorous city. He reluctantly attends a seance at a decaying haunted palazzoand when one of the guests is murdered, Poirot is thrust into a sinister world of shadows and secrets. Like its predecessors, A Haunting in Venice boasts an all-star ensemble cast that includes Kyle Allen, Camille Cottin, Jamie Dornan, Tina Fey, Jude Hill, Ali Khan, Emma Laird, Kelly Reilly, Riccardo Scamarcio, and Michelle Yeoh. James Prichard, chairman and CEO of Agatha Christie Limited and Christies great-grandson, returns as an executive producerand in an exclusive interview, he discusses taking the film franchise in a bold new direction. Halloween Party was first published in 1969. What makes Agatha Christies stories so timelessand what makes the Hercule Poirot stories so perfect for film adaptations? James Prichard: I think its the stories. Thats the simple thing, really. She had this extraordinary genius for inventing plots. Great stories stand the test of time and they also work across different cultures and languages, which is why we have such a global presence. A Haunting in Venice deviates from Halloween Party more so than the previous film adaptations of her work. How did you ensure it retained the right tone and same spirit? James: One of the great things about this project is that the team has been together for quite a long time. Michael has written all three scripts, Kens directed and starred in all three, and Steve Asbell [President, 20th Century Studios] has been involved in all three. Theres an awful lot of trust involved in that. When they came up with the idea of doing Halloween Partybut doing it very differently by setting it in Venice rather than an English country village, doing some fairly radical things with the story, and adding in a horror layerwe were working from a basis of trust. Michael has earned our respect, and when he said he wanted to do a few things with the story, we let him get on with it. Having done two quite faithful adaptations of very big, famous Agatha Christie titles with Murder on the Orient Express and Death on the Nile, we wanted to try to do something different and surprise our audienceboth with a story that maybe they dont know as well, and also with a tone that might surprise them. There are nods to the horror genre in this film, but its still a murder mystery. It may borrow from other genres, but I think its all the better for it. With the added horror element, A Haunting in Venice takes the franchise in a new direction. Why was that right approach, as opposed going more comedic, for example? James: One of the things Im quite clear on is that I know my place; I know my skill set and I know where I can add value and where I cant. I know quite well that I dont have a creative bone in my body, so when you come into creative conversations, I trust the people who do have the creative boneslike Michael and Ken. And they both felt the horror genre was the way to go. There are lighter, funnier moments in the film; I think one of the things my great-grandmother is underestimated for is the way she used humor. But it was Michael and Kens idea to lean into the horror here. If we get to make more films, we might lean into other things, but I think Michael and Ken came up with a very good idea. This marks your third film with Kenneth and Michael based classic literary characters. How has their understanding of Hercule Poirot and Agathas writing evolved over time? James: Through these films, both Ken and Michael have investigated Poirot way more than my great-grandmother did in the books. Perhaps most obviously, he gets his backstory at the beginning of Death on the Nilehis First World War experience and the genesis of his mustache. This film has a slightly different story arc for Poirot. He starts off in a bit of a depression, shut off from the world in his Palazzo in Venice with his bodyguards protecting him from everyone. Ariadne Oliver [Fey] bullies her way in to see him and into investigating the case. Through the torment and torture of the casewhich involves him coming to terms with the possibility that there is a supernatural being, that there is something beyond even his capabilities and understandinghe reaches a different level of contentment with the world and finds an ability to engage with it again. Thats a fun adjunct to the murder mystery, which is the traditional purveyor of an Agatha Christie story. From Murder on the Orient Express to A Haunting in Venice, youve assembled a murderers row of talent. Why do so many actors want to be part of this film franchise? James: I think theres a renewed seriousness in her works, and I think actors are pulled that way. I think one of the big attractions is Ken. Hes obviously a very well respected director, but I think hes also a director who actors like working foror with. As an actor himself, he understands actors, and hes sympathetic to actors. With all three films, if you speak to the casts, theyve all had a lot of fun. Ken has a big theatrical background, and he treats these casts much more like a theatrical troupe than film actors. Inside and outside of work, they all seem to have fun, and they play games. Ken creates a sense of teamwork. Thats why people enjoy the experience of working on these movies, as well as the movies themselves. Agatha Christie wrote more than 30 novels featuring Hercule Poirot. Have you given any thought as to which story you might want to adapt next with Kenneth and Michael? James: Im careful here, because Id hate to get ahead of myself or tempt the fates. But I would be remiss to not say that if Ken and 20th Century Studios want to make more films, we will very happily come along for the ride. There are, obviously, other exotics you could do; you could do Evil Under the Sun or Appointment with Death, with their glorious settings. But I wonder if it wouldnt be quite fun to do a more traditional English murder mystery after having done something really unexpected and surprising with A Haunting in Venice. FSN E-Commerce Ventures Limited, referred to as Nykaa, Indias leading omnichannel consumer-tech company, today held its 11th Annual General Meeting (AGM). Falguni Nayar, Chairperson, MD & CEO of Nykaa reiterated the faith the company has in the tremendous growth potential of the Indian consumption story that is set to play out over the coming years. Having made strategic investments over the years in technology, operational excellence, partnerships and people, Nykaa has earned its place in its consumers minds as Indias most preferred beauty and lifestyle omnichannel destination. Key statements from Falguni Nayars speech to the shareholders: India has quickly become the most preferred destination for many global brands to meet their growth ambitions. Through unwavering focus on best practices combined with the art of retailing, we have established ourselves as the Indian partner of choice for brands across the world. By taking an unconventional technology first approach, we were able to disrupt and democratize both demand and supply for the industry while reaching over 98% of the market. We have an unwavering commitment to our customers we strive to be authentic, inclusive and transparent with them. Our customers have appreciated this, and allowed us into their homes and hearts, for which we are grateful. We have received much brand love, with Nykaa becoming synonymous with Beauty for many around the country. We are proud of our ability to execute and deliver on the plans we set out to achieve. Almost one-third of our GMV contribution in FY23 has come from our newer businesses, with all of them being built from scratch over the last 4 to 5 years. Our success here comes from diligently finding product-market fit, executing well with speed, and driving only sustainable growth. The highlights of FSN E-commerce 11th AGM presented virtually on 18th September 2023 Nykaa witnessed a consolidated GMV of over Rs. 9,743 crores and a Net Revenue of Rs. 5,143 Crores. This represents a revenue growth of 36% over FY22 and a revenue growth of 191% over the pre-covid year of FY20. Nykaa achieved a Gross Profit of over Rs. 2,278 Crores and EBITDA of Rs. 256 Crores, with a healthy and improving EBITDA margin of 5%. Nykaas business spans across multiple digital platforms retailing over 6,200 brands to a customer base of 24 million and the company services customers in 98% of the countrys pin codes. As an omnichannel retailer, Nykaa has 150+ multi brand retail stores along with many EBOs and Store-in-store across 3rd party outlets. Currently, Nykaa has 25 unique and well positioned brands across Beauty, Personal Care and Fashion, spanning across categories. Notable amongst these are Kay Beauty, Nykaa Cosmetics, Dot & Key, Nykd & 20 Dresses. Industry Outlook Presently, India's per capita Beauty & Personal Care (BPC ) consumption is at $15 and is likely to grow to $50 by 2030. This presents a significant opportunity for Nykaa w hich already enjoys an annual consumption value of $80 per capita, which is already more than 5 times the national average. For Fashion, Indias per capita consumption stands at $54 and is expected to reach $160 by 2030, based on the trajectory of developed markets. The Nykaa customer today spends $130 on Fashion. Nykaas Beauty and Personal Care Business The BPC GMV stood at Rs. 6,649 Crores for FY23, growing 33% over the last year, and when compared to pre-COVID, it stood at a strong 2.6 times of the FY20 GMV. Today Nykaa is the largest beauty specialty retailer in the country, online and offline with an unconventional technology first approach. Currently, Nykaa retail over 3,400 brands, from the biggest global brands such as LOreal, MAC & The Ordinary, to international cult favorites like Charlotte Tilbury to niche Korean Brands from Amore Pacific to homegrown beauty brands like Lakme, Mamaearth and Minimalist. Nykaa has always believed in the power of omnichannel, and opened its first store, very early in its journey in 2014. As of FY23, Nykaa has expanded to 145 beauty specialty stores across different formats, including Luxe stores, On-trend stores and Kiosks across 60+ cities. Nykaas Fashion Business The Fashion GMV stood at Rs. 2,569 Crores for FY23 and now constitutes over 26% of Nykaas overall consolidated GMV. In FY23, over 2.5 million customers trusted Nykaa Fashion to help them stay stylish. Global Store contributes almost 25% of the western wear sales, as of Q4 FY23. This year, the number of brands available on the platform doubled from 1,500 brands to 2,850+ brands across curation levers National brands, Global Store, Hidden Gems, First in Fashion and the Responsible Collection. Nykaas Owned Brands The BPC owned brands now contribute to 11.9% of the overall BPC GMV and Fashion owned brands contribute 12.9% to the overall Fashion GMV. In less than 3 years from launch, Nykd, Nykaa Fashions lingerie brand has built a national presence and is distributed through 4 EBOs, 900+ Point of Sales in GT/MT. Kay Beauty, Nykaas award-winning premium beauty brand launched in partnership with Katrina Kaif is present in 300+ offline stores and has witnessed impressive year on year GMV growth, with a 2-Year CAGR of 86% and exceeding a GMV of Rs 127 Crores in FY23. Nykd (lingerie brand), and 20 Dresses (western wear brand) have now become sizable, crossing Rs 85 Crs and Rs 150 Crs in GMV sales for FY23 respectively. Nykaa B2B offerings Superstore by Nykaa, launched in 2021 has successfully onboarded 150,00 retailers in FY23. Along with a growth in the number of retailers, Superstore witnessed an order growth of over 15 times in FY22. For FY23, over 84% of the sales came from Tier 2+ India. Strategic Alliance with Apparel Group in GCC The GCC offers a large BPC market size of over $30 Billion and as a region is in its early-stage journey of ecommerce adoption. Nykaa, in a joint venture with GCCs retail conglomerate Apparel Group, will open its first international store before the end of 2023. Nykaas CSR and ESG efforts Nykaa Foundation within the first year of launch has taken up multiple initiatives spanning education, training, childrens health and empowerment. As part of 10x10 , a Nykaa initiative that started in July 2020, to reduce the amount of plastic used (both by volume and value) by 10% every year for the next 5 years has invested in building a regional fulfillment strategy with a twofold objective - reducing the last mile carbon footprint by getting closer to the customer and reducing the number of shipments required per order. Through investments in technology in warehouses, Nykaa has adopted paperless picking, resulting in elimination of almost 90% paper consumption across all our warehouses. Workforce at Nykaa Nykaa has been able to build a diverse and inclusive workforce. Women constitute 45% of the employee base with representation at all levels. Amongst the 188-person strong managerial leadership, 33% are women. Nykaas business supports various segments and generates indirect employment across its logistics partners, brand partners, thousands of suppliers as well as hundreds of MSME vendors. Falguni Nayar concluded her address by citing one of Nykaas core values, which is To be Bold and To be Good, reiterating Nykaa's commitment to being ambitious and entrepreneurial yet bold and ethical, striving for long-term profitability and value creation for all stakeholders. A major landmark antitrust trial is set to begin in the US, targeting Google. The case was filed in December 2020 by the Justice Department and eleven states, accusing Google of maintaining its stranglehold on the search market through deals with smartphone manufacturers and Internet browser creators. This, says the Justice Department, has made Google the default search engine almost everywhere. These deals often include provisions preventing partners from installing rival search engines.Google's legal troubles poin to a major shift in the regulatory approach towards tech giants. For years, major tech companies went on an expansion spree without much constraint, but now they face multiple antitrust investigations. The outcome of the Google case will have far-reaching implications extending beyond online advertising and search engines, particularly in the realm of AI technologies. Google's huge market sharenearly ninety percent of US general search queriesled the US government to label it a "gatekeeper for the internet." The US government argues that Google's monopoly profits allow it to perpetuate its dominance through these deals, leading to a cycle of control and profit. Google defends saying that its market dominance is the result of offering a superior product. The company argues that users have a choice and so they choose Google. Unlike the Microsoft case in 1998, where most users preferred Netscape, Google claims that consumers genuinely prefer its search engine. Google also says that it's easy for users to switch to alternative search engines if they desire, such as Bing or DuckDuckGo. AI-based search sites like Neeva, which seek to challenge Google's dominance with AI-powered search, faced difficulties attracting users due to Google's dominance. The verdict in the Google case could determine the future of online search and the emerging AI-driven search technologies. The Google antitrust case is reminiscent of the Microsoft case in 1998, when the software giant faced an antitrust lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice and twenty states. Microsoft was accused of engaging in anti-competitive practices in both the computer operating systems and Internet browser markets. Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC), sole sector skill council in India supported by the Indian automobile industry, announced the nomination of Auto component industry veteran F R Singhvi, as its next President. Concurrently, Vinkesh Gulati has been appointed as Vice President. These appointments come as ASDC marks its biennial leadership transition at its Annual General Meeting (AGM) today. F R Singhvi's appointment as President follows the successful tenure of Vinod Aggarwal (President SIAM and MD & CEO, Volvo Eicher Commercial Vehicles Ltd), who has played a pivotal role in steering ASDC's growth over the past two years. During his tenure, ASDC's notable achievements include the launching of the National Automotive Olympiad, facilitating over 1 lakh apprenticeships through NAPS, and increasing ASDC's outreach to all corners of India by organizing job fairs for communities in remote areas. ASDC has also expanded its perspective to span CSR initiatives, electric mobility programs, and leveraging prestigious industry events. With over 39 years of professional experience and a background as a Chartered Accountant, F R Singhvi is the co - promoter and the Joint Managing Director of Sansera Engineering Ltd. Over the years, he has been actively driving initiatives at the Automotive Components Manufacturers Association (ACMA), where he leads Pillar 3 programs encompassing ACT, Skilling and Mentoring, HR, YBLF and representing ACMA in ASDC Governing Council. Expressing his enthusiasm for his new role, F R Singhvi said, "I have been part of ASDC and excited to lead ASDC in its endeavours to skill, upskill, and reskill the personnal within the automotive industry. ASDC has grown into a vital institution, significantly contributing to the auto sector through its various skill-based initiatives." Vinkesh Gulati, newly appointed Vice President, stated, "ASDC has built a strong foundation over the years. We have achieved significant milestones, with robust industry and ecosystem engagement. Notable accomplishments include our collaboration with GIZ GmbH to launch the E-Bus Up School Capacity Building Program, expansion into areas such as EVs, sustainability, safety, and diagnostics, and the revision of our Qualification Packs/curriculum based on insights from over 300+ industry experts. Additionally, ASDC has actively participated in G20 discussions on the future of work. I look forward to taking this forward in my new capacity." Outgoing President Vinod Aggarwal concluded by saying, "I sincerely appreciated the opportunity to serve as President ASDC over the past two years, during which ASDC drove several pathbreaking initiatives. Looking ahead, the Indian Automotive industry will play a key role during Indias transformation in its Amrut Kaal by incorporating sustainable technologies and modern practices. I am confident that based on its rigorous curriculum and outreach, ASDCs training will play a pivotal role in supporting Indias youthful workforce in the coming years. My best wishes to incoming President F R Singhvi and incoming Vice President Vinkesh Gulati, Arindam Lahiri, CEO and the ASDC team as they continue to drive the council's mission to develop a highly skilled workforce for the automotive industry. A Skeptic's Guide to the Universe: Mystery Babylon, part I From its roots in remote antiquity to its influential place in modern organized religion By Charlotte B. Cerminaro web posted September 18, 2023 Some of the strangest and most vile pagan practices have been well-documented throughout their long history. Reputable theologians, historians and anthropologists generally consider ancient pagan rituals and beliefs to be products of ignorance or superstition antithetical to enlightenment, written law and freedom. Yet there are pagan practices still entrenched in some modern-day religious institutions; their odd pageantry and compulsory rituals are merely a covert form of thinly disguised power and control that have proven disastrous to human civilization. Catholicism is one of the largest organized religious orders in the world, with an estimated one billion followers. Unbeknownst to most lay-Catholics, thousands of years ago the founding leaders embraced ancient Babylonian rituals to lure pagans into the "church". Their new converts, however, were not educated; they were misled. Rather than being enlightened, they were enslaved. Christ's gospel message to the gentile world one of rationality and freedom from the bondage of legalism, sin and superstition was willfully distorted for the basest of all worldly power and greed. As leaders in the Catholic church lay claim to the teachings of Christ, no religious group has done more damage over the past 2,000 years through overt "replacement" theology, oppressive taxation and laws, and capital punishment for any perceived disobedience. Many of the pagan practices that were absorbed by the Catholic institution survived the protestant reformation and persist to this day. The systematized priesthood itself was directly inherited from an ancient Babylonian order with layers of stratified power and titles such as bishop, archbishop and cardinal all subordinate to the high priest, or pontiff. Also called the 'Vicar of Christ', the pope is granted infallibility as the sole authority on earth to speak for God, to enact new decrees or laws, and have the devotion, obedience and praise that God alone has the right to receive. This magnitude of human arrogance was not invented by Catholic leadership. Its origins are far older and more enigmatic, going back several thousand years to the cradle of civilization ancient Mesopotamia. During a time generally considered to be proto-history, the city-state of Babylon was founded by a powerful military leader who appointed himself king. He was known by many names, Gilgamesh and Nimrod among them. As his city grew exponentially so did his arrogance and he started to believe that he was a god. Those who refused to worship him were put to death. He built a temple in the plains of Shinar, a ziggurat structure of enormous proportions calling it the Tower of Babel. The Chaldean term, Bab-El, literally means "gateway to the gods"; Gilgamesh/Nimrod intended this structure to be a dimensional portal, for the purpose of reaching the heavens and usurping the God. He claimed to hold the power over life and death, and only a select few of his wisest priests were taught these "mysteries". Nimrod's mythology and fame soon spread throughout the ancient world, his god-king dogma quickly becoming orthodoxy. Every pharaoh, emperor and king was a god and only the chosen initiates could become their priests, gaining access to supernatural rituals, mysteries and knowledge that was otherwise inaccessible. There is nothing new in these beliefs, that there are secrets of the gods deliberately hidden from humanity revealed to only a select few specifically the secrets of worldly power and immortality. They have existed since the dawn of humankind. If the tomb of Gilgamesh were empty or the pharaohs of Egypt could not be found, it would be no secret. There is only one documented and confirmed empty tomb that I know o; if even this strains credulity at times, there is one fact that is even more remarkable and striking: This is a mystery no power on earth could keep secret. Charlotte B. Cerminaro is a Juilliard-trained classical musician and recording artist. In her free time she enjoys writing and regularly contributes to Enter Stage Right and she attained a Bachelor's Degree in Molecular Biology. Home Maaza, Coca-Cola Indias homegrown mango drink has recently launched its premium segment with Mango Lassi in a new campaign "Rush Nahi, Sip Karo" featuring Ananya Panday. Mango Lassi takes centre stage as a harmonious fusion of yogurt and mango, spotlighting Maaza's delightful attributes and emphasizing on the brand's commitment to real mango indulgence. Since its inception in 1976, Maaza's journey has become intricately woven into India's cultural tapestry, delivering the exquisite essence of Alphonso mangoes with an unrivalled passion that resonates in every sip, celebrating the nation's profound love for this golden fruit. Conceptualized by T&P (as a part of OpenX from WPP), the new TVC featuring Ananya Panday conveys "Rush Nahi, Sip Karo" to the audience, a message that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Maaza Magics core product proposition. The idea behind the campaign is to encourage consumers to take their time and savour the delicious taste of Maaza Mango Lassi at their preferred leisure. In the TVC, Ananya Panday can be observed delighting in Mango Lassi, presenting a captivating experience that proves to be simply too tempting to resist. Her expressions seamlessly transition from intrigue to pure delight, embodying the essence of getting lost in the indulgent and immersive world that Maaza's Mango Lassi offers. Announcing the launch of the new variant, Ajay Konale, Senior Director Marketing, Nutrition Category, Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia said, Maaza is a homegrown legacy brand and has been cherished by Indians for decades across generations. With the launch of Maaza Mango Lassi, we aspire to revive nostalgic memories of traditional flavours fused with a contemporary twist. We are delighted to have Ananya Panday on board as our brand ambassador, whose vibrant and dynamic persona aligns perfectly with Maaza's brand ethos. Ananya Panday, Indian actress & ambassador of Maaza Magic, said, I am absolutely thrilled to come on board as the brand ambassador of Maaza Magic. Mangoes are intrinsic to our cultural heritage and childhood reminiscences. From my earliest recollections, Maaza has always been synonymous with mangoes. It's a privilege to be associated with a legacy that has been part of every Indian's life, enabling me to relive those treasured childhood moments." The brand has adopted a 360-degree marketing approach to amplify the new campaign, consisting of digital broadcasting. Anchored in a resolute commitment to sustainability, Maaza is produced locally, harnessing native ingredients as a vital component of Coca-Cola's pioneering "Fruit Circular Economy" initiative. Since 2011, it has also been contributing significantly towards enhancing the socio-economic development of Indian farmers, with initiatives such as the Project Unnati Mango in Andhra Pradesh and Project Unnati Aamrit in Bhubaneswar. Salesforce and Google announced an expansion of their strategic partnership to bring together Salesforce, the #1 AI CRM, and Google Workspace, the worlds most popular productivity tool, to drive productivity with AI. This partnership will deliver new bidirectional integrations that allow customers to bring together context from Salesforce and Google Workspace, including Google Calendar, Docs, Meet, Gmail, and more, to power generative AI experiences across platforms. With these integrations, users will be able to seamlessly work across platforms through Salesforce and Google Workspaces generative AI assistants, Salesforces Einstein Copilot, and Duet AI in Google Workspace. Customers can use their own account, contact, and opportunity data from Salesforce to generate customized Google Slides and Docs while Google Meet summaries and context from Gmail and Google Calendar can be brought into Salesforce to update records and trigger workflows, such as saving a signed contract to Salesforce and closing the opportunity with a win-loss report generated in Docs. As part of this collaboration, Salesforce and Google have worked together to make their generative AI assistant offerings extensible and each will be the first partners to integrate with the others newly available third-party platforms. Significance: Generative AI is reshaping the way businesses and people work. In fact, 77% of senior IT leaders say generative AI will help their organization serve customers faster, and 64% of businesses expect AI to increase their workforces productivity. This expanded partnership will help drive increased productivity by providing the right data and context at the right time, and unlocking generative AI benefits in the flow of work. With this integration, users will be able to: Generate personalized content across Google Workspace and Salesforce: Users will be able to generate personalized and contextual Workspace content, including emails in Gmail, content in Google Docs, and more, from Workspace or Salesforce, by seamlessly accessing relevant Salesforce information on prior meetings, customer interactions, and sales outcomes. Users will be able to generate personalized and contextual Workspace content, including emails in Gmail, content in Google Docs, and more, from Workspace or Salesforce, by seamlessly accessing relevant Salesforce information on prior meetings, customer interactions, and sales outcomes. Keep Salesforce records up-to-date with context from Google Workspace: Users will be able to leverage Google Workspace data to automatically keep Salesforce records up-to-date, increasing productivity and eliminating manual tasks like moving an opportunity stage forward in Salesforce based on context from Gmail. Users will be able to leverage Google Workspace data to automatically keep Salesforce records up-to-date, increasing productivity and eliminating manual tasks like moving an opportunity stage forward in Salesforce based on context from Gmail. Drive automation at scale: Users will be able to automate processes and eliminate the need for context switching by automatically generating interaction and meeting summaries, scheduling follow-ups and assigning tasks, and more, based on context from Salesforce and Google Workspace. For example, after a successful sales call, a summary from Google Meet can trigger assignment of tasks to owners in Salesforce, schedule follow-up meetings in Google Calendar, and move a deal stage to closed. Go deeper: Salesforce is the first partner to integrate with Google Workspaces new Duet AI extensions framework and Google Workspace is the first extensibility partner for Salesforces new Einstein Copilot. Einstein Copilot will be able to access relevant context in Google Workspace to enrich workflows across sales, service, marketing, commerce, and more. Each of these integrations are backed by the robust privacy and user data protections already in place across Salesforce and Google Workspace. Broader AI momentum: In addition to Google Workspace integrating with Einstein Copilot, today Google and Salesforce announce the ability for customers to bring their LLMs deployed on Vertex AI, including Googles PaLM family of models, and use them within the Einstein 1 Platform to build generative AI powered experiences across the Customer 360. This continued momentum around data and AI builds upon partnerships announced earlier this year between Salesforce Data Cloud, Google BigQuery, and Google Vertex AI to help businesses utilize data and AI to deliver more holistic customer data strategy and drive personalized customer experiences. The Google perspective: Our partnership with Salesforce is an example of why an open and extensible ecosystem for generative AI will create the most value for customers. Together, Salesforce and Google Workspace will empower organizations to redefine how work is accomplished with generative AI, help foster innovation and productivity at scale, and make common tasks more efficient and purposeful. Thomas Kurian, CEO at Google Cloud The Salesforce perspective: Our partnership with Google empowers organizations to unlock the full potential of AI and data, grounded in trust. This deep integration between Salesforce and Google Workspace, where many users spend much of their day, helps save time and effort, unlocks far greater value and deeper insights from their data, and will fundamentally change how people work. David Schmaier, President and Chief Product Officer at Salesforce Federal Department of Foreign Affairs Bern, 18.09.2023 - The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) welcomes the humanitarian gesture of the US and Iran that has led to the successful exchange of five American and five Iranian prisoners, who can now go home to their families. Switzerland helped facilitate the prisoner exchange by providing its good offices. The FDFA would like to thank all the countries involved for the trust they placed in Switzerland. On 18 September, Switzerland was able to hand over five US citizens, released by Iran, to the US authorities in Doha, Qatar. In return, the US has released five Iranian nationals. Deploying its extensive experience and expertise, Switzerland made a key contribution to the success of this humanitarian gesture and facilitated the related transfer of frozen funds from South Korea to Iran. The funds may only be used for humanitarian purposes. Switzerland played a major role in the process by providing its good offices at the request of all the parties involved. Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, Foreign minister and head of the FDFA, welcomed the prisoner swap and thanked both countries for the trust they placed in Switzerland: "Dialogue is always the best option. Switzerland is ready to participate in other mediation processes in line with its long-standing tradition of providing good offices". Switzerland's good offices: a key foreign policy instrument The aim of good offices is to resolve differences and conflicts between and within countries by political means. Just trying to the keep channels of communication open is often crucial to preventing disputes from escalating and mitigating their effects. Switzerland's good offices, which have a long tradition as part of Swiss foreign policy, include safeguarding foreign interests. This year, it was also possible to terminate the protecting power mandates for Saudi Arabia in Iran and for Iran in Saudi Arabia. Switzerland also supported this step, which will increase stability in the region. In addition to the protecting power mandate for the US in Iran, Switzerland is currently exercising four other protecting power mandates: for Russia in Georgia, Georgia in Russia, Iran in Egypt and Iran in Canada. Address for enquiries FDFA Communication Federal Palace West Wing CH-3003 Bern, Switzerland Tel. Press service: +41 58 460 55 55 E-mail: kommunikation@eda.admin.ch Twitter: @SwissMFA Publisher Federal Department of Foreign Affairs https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html Federal Department of Foreign Affairs Bern, 18.09.2023 - Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis met today with Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly in Ottawa. Talks centred on further developing SwissCanadian ties in the fields of economy, research, environment and human rights. Next step: 18 to 20 September in New York and the opening week of the UN General Assembly. In his capacity as head of the FDFA, Mr Cassis and his delegation will also attend thematic events and bilateral meetings, which will focus on the war in Ukraine, combating pollution, and guaranteeing respect for the rule of law and international humanitarian law. Mr Cassis' agenda in New York will be largely influenced by Russia's continuing military aggression against Ukraine. Together with the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, Mr Cassis will be stepping up cooperation between Switzerland and the IAEA in order to strengthen nuclear security in Ukraine. At the invitation of his German counterpart, Mr Cassis will take part in a ministerial meeting on the revision of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) another key signal in the fight against impunity for the crime of aggression. In addition to the war against Ukraine, Europe and its security challenges will be high on the FDFA's agenda in New York. Against this backdrop, Mr Cassis is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with a number of international representatives, including the foreign ministers of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Greece, Cyprus, Turkey and Estonia, as well as the secretary general of the OSCE. He will also meet with the foreign ministers of Ecuador and the United Arab Emirates both elected members of the UN Security Council for the same term as Switzerland in order to strengthen mutual cooperation within the Security Council. In addition, on 20 September Mr Cassis is to take part in a joint event of the foreign ministers of the ten non-permanent Security Council members on improving the council's efficiency, one of Switzerland's priorities on the council. Environmental protection will also be on the agenda in New York, with Mr Cassis scheduled to take part in a ministerial meeting on the topic of plastic environmental pollution. The aim of this ministerial panel is to lay the groundwork for the next round of negotiations on an international treaty aimed at significantly reducing plastic pollution by 2040. SwissCanadian partnership on agenda ahead of UNGA In Ottawa today, Mr Cassis and Ms Joly reaffirmed their countries' commitment to developing bilateral and multilateral cooperation, particularly in the fields of research, the economy and the environment. The two ministers also discussed Canada's initiative against the arbitrary detention of foreign nationals by states in order to apply pressure in matters of foreign policy. At Canada's invitation, Mr Cassis will take part in an event jointly organised with the US and Costa Rica on this initiative which will be held during the UNGA's opening week. The event is expected to advance efforts to end this practice of arbitrary detention, which runs counter to the principles of human rights and the rule of law as set out in the Federal Council's Americas Strategy 202225. Mr Cassis and Ms Joly also discussed multilingualism and Russia's military aggression against Ukraine, with both parties pledging to continue their commitment to shared democratic values. FDFA news platform: news from New York The FDFA news platform provides information on Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis' activities at the high-level week in New York (see link below). Address for enquiries Nicolas Bideau, Head of FDFA Communication nicolas.bideau@eda.admin.ch +41 79 667 69 15 Publisher Federal Department of Foreign Affairs https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html What did it take to bring together Mobiles epic, seemingly near-spontaneous parade honoring the late Jimmy Buffett? A lot, and you can read all about it in an account from the agent provocateur whose notion put several thousand people in the street. Over the weekend, Joseph Brennan shared an extensive post looking back on the genesis of the Sept. 10 parade down Dauphin Street and thanking the many people whose encouragement or active support made it a reality. You can read the whole thing at www.facebook.com/JosephTBrennan. Among the revelations: When the idea of a parade honoring Buffett struck him, first people Brennan sounded out were John Killian, taproom and event manager at Braided River Brewing, and Jonathan Landry of Blow House Brass Band. Had they been skeptical, the idea might have died right there. But Killian helped make sure this thing didnt go off the rails all the way through the end and Blow House generously donated their valuable talent and time. Early in the process, Brennan decided that he didnt want to do it if it was against the Buffett familys wishes. He turned to Suzanne Cleveland as an intermediary, because she grew up with the Buffetts and she also pretty much knows everyone in Mobile. Cleveland herself supported the idea, Brennan said, and To get Suzanne Clevelands blessing is a pretty good start. Word that came back from the Buffett family was along the lines of, Jimmy belongs to the world and that people were free to celebrate him as they wished. Cleveland confirmed her role. She once worked with Buffetts mother at the Alabama Dry Dock and Shipbuilding Co. and knows several members of the family. Brennan is a neighbor, and when he approached her, she sent a message to Lucy LuLu Buffett, one of Jimmys sisters. While she doesnt presume to speak for anyone in the family, Cleveland said, the response she heard to the parade was positive. As far as the family goes, the ones I know were thrilled, she said. More early support came from Carol Hunter and the Downtown Mobile Alliance, Brennan said, and that was critical. He was about to seek a parade permit on short notice after Buffetts death on Sept. 1, for an event whose parameters were very vague. He couldnt even get started on Monday, because he had to wait for the Labor Day holiday to pass. I was freaking out, he said. Fortunately, he found his idea was rapidly embraced by Capt. Matthew Garrett at the Central Precinct and Lt. John Angle of the traffic safety unit. Brennan said he thinks the rapid support of Hunter gave it some legitimacy with the police department, but that hes also grateful for a police department willing to show a sense of humor. Something Ive heard a lot is that this wouldnt happen in any other city in Alabama, he said. Police wouldnt be like, Yeah, this sounds like a good idea. Special appreciation is due the Renaissance Riverview Plaza Hotel, which served as the starting point, and Moes Original BBQ, which served as the end point for a grand after-party. The Riverview Plazas role included welcoming us and allowing us to render the valet station completely inoperable for over an hour and even rolling out a margarita bar, Brennan wrote. Moes, meanwhile, allowed some 1,500 loud migratory parrotheads to storm your establishment and sing and dance on what would have been a rather quiet Sunday. Numerous musicians joined in a Buffet jam session that ran into the evening. Gene Murrell of WZEW-FM 92.1 has said, I went to play two songs and ended up playing three and a half hours. Brennan said that Hunter tells him the Downtown Mobile Alliance got some interesting data from the event: An estimated 2,000 people took part, with another 1,200 or so along the route as observers. Some of the participants came from as far as Michigan, Illinois and Wisconsin. Brennan said that matched his own experience. Before the event he met a woman who had driven up with her sister from Orlando, and a couple whod driven from Chicago. They hopped in their car Saturday morning, had never been to Mobile before, and drove 14 hours, he said. They were making a trip of it. They next day they were going to go to LuLus and check out Gulf Shores. Such interest absolutely blew him away, he said: Beforehand his thinking was that If someone came from Hattiesburg I was going to be impressed. One of the things that really stands out about the event, Brennan said, was how selfless everybody involved was. Early in the process, he said, he heard a few brilliant remarks from naysayers who thought it was a moneymaking thing. In reality no one was paid, it was a zero-budget event, he said, aside from him paying $25 for a parade permit. Joseph Brennan, a Mobile filmmaker whose idea for an open foot parade honoring Jimmy Buffett, smiles as he takes in the huge turnout on Sept. 10, 2023.Lawrence Specker | LSpecker@AL.com Nobody asked to be paid, he said. Did Moes sell a lot of margaritas? Yeah, they probably did. Also we stormed their restaurant. We took it over. We didnt rent the back room, they just said, Its all yours, they threw us the keys. So, nobody was looking to get anything in return. There were no sponsors, no budget, nothing. Brennan acknowledged that the event has prompted people to talk about making it an annual event. He thinks some kind of yearly tribute to Buffett is a very realistic possibility for Mobile, but that itll take a more traditional planning process to determine what form would be best. What I think we have to be honest about is, we caught lightning in a bottle, he said. That kind of moment in time is never going to happen again. Were all very lucky that we got to experience that. I think the lesson from the parade is, truly anything is possible, he said. Related: In Mobile, a notion to honor Jimmy Buffett turns into something epic Jimmy Buffetts final studio album, featuring Paul McCartney and other stars, coming soon Jimmy Buffett was one of Alabamas favorite sons Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen on Monday announced a new system that he said will improve the accuracy of the states voter rolls by providing information the state previously received from an organization that tracked similar information for many states. Allen, a Republican, withdrew Alabama from the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC) when he took office in January, following through on a campaign promise that put him at odds with his Republican predecessor, John Merrill, who said ERIC had worked well for the state. Allen said the new system, the Alabama Voter Integrity Database, AVID, will rely on four sources to identify Alabama voters who have moved out of state or died outside Alabama. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency will identify voters who have obtained a drivers license or non-drivers IDs in another state. Allen said ALEA has identified 8,041 registered Alabama voters who have gotten a license in another state. The National Change of Address file will allow the state to compare the voter list with the names of people who have told the U.S. Postal Service that they have moved out of the state. Allen said his offices IT department has used the file to identify more than 30,000 registered voters who have relocated to another state. The state has signed memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with Georgia, Florida, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Arkansas to compare voters lists and identify those registered to vote in Alabama who are also registered in those states. Allen said the analysis of the Tennessee voting lists has found 8,501 people who have registered or voted in Tennessee who are still on Alabamas voter rolls. Finally, the state will use the Social Security Death Index to identify people on the voter rolls who have died, including those who died in other states. Allen said the Department of Public Health notifies county registrars when people die in Alabama. The index will allow the state to track registered Alabama voters who die outside the state. Allen said the state is in the final stages of accreditation to use the index. If AVID identifies a match from ALEA, the National Change of Address file, or the MOUs with other states, the voter will be sent a postcard to the address where they are registered in Alabama. The card, to be mailed by county registrars, will ask the voter to withdraw their Alabama registration if they have moved out of state, or to update their address if they are still in Alabama. Allen said those voters will be placed on inactive status on Alabamas voter rolls. If they attempt to vote in Alabama, they will be required to update their registration first. Allen said the National Voter Registration Act requires states to wait four years before officially removing the names of people from the voting rolls, except for those who have died. As for the cost of AVID, Allen said the state has paid about a little more than $5,000 to get access to Social Security Death Index and a little more than $7,000 for use of the National Change of Address file. The state paid about $25,000 for its membership in ERIC. ERIC compares voter lists and other data and reports voter matches and other information to its member states. Twenty-five states are members of ERIC. Asked why AVID would be better, even though the state has MOUs with only five states at this point, Allen said it was better to get information directly from other states and from ALEA, rather than through a third party. He said his office was working to obtain MOUs to share voter registration rolls with more states. We believe in it, Allen said. We know its going to work. Weve already identified the first data thats coming from Tennessee. Were going to continue to work hard to get other bilateral agreements set up. When Allen pledged to withdraw Alabama from ERIC during his campaign in 2022, he tried to link the organization with billionaire George Soros, who funds Democratic causes. Merrill, his predecessor as secretary of state, said theres no evidence to support claims that Soros was behind the establishment of ERIC. Thats a straw man that people have used, Merrill said Monday. According to ERIC, the organization was started in 2012 by seven states -- Colorado, Delaware, Maryland, Nevada, Utah, Virginia, and Washington -- with help from the Pew Charitable Trusts. Merrill, who was term-limited after two terms as secretary of state and now works in private business, questioned how a system with five states can provide the same quality of information as ERIC. Its been a great resource for the state of Alabama, Merrill said. Allen praised his staff for working hard to set up the AVID system during the eight months since he took office. Were very proud of what weve been able to do, Allen said. This is going to be the Alabama-based solution that we promised on Day One. The Birmingham Business Alliance (BBA) will host its inaugural Regional Economic Development Summit on Thursday, Nov. 16 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The event will take place at the renovated Greyhound Bus Station in downtown Birmingham. Tickets are on sale now for $50. For sponsorship opportunities and additional event details, click here. Organizers say the event will assemble economic developers, business leaders, government officials, chamber executives and community leaders for discussions and strategy sessions dealing with the future of economic development in the Greater Birmingham Region. Birmingham's Greyhound Bus Terminal after a renovation project that preserved its classic look while repurposing it for office use. (William Thornton/ wthornton@al.com) A luncheon will feature a keynote address by Alabama Secretary of Commerce Greg Canfield. Economic development isnt just about numbers, its about people working together, BBA CEO Steve Ammons said. Collective effort can change communities. Our hope is that this event unites our partners and serves as the catalyst to further collaboration and cooperation across the Greater Birmingham Region. Session content will include information on site selection, land planning, retail and industrial development, marketing strategies and other topics. For more information, visit the BBA website. The father of Harlow Freeman, the then-9-month-old girl who was reported kidnapped only to be found safe in a car that had rolled away, has been arrested. He is charged with conspiracy to commit a controlled substance crime and endangering the welfare of a child, according to a Facebook post from the Parrish Police Department. Madison Jo Rilee Freeman, 30, father of Harlow Freeman, was reportedly arrested on Friday, Sept. 15. Police said their investigation following the reported kidnapping and subsequent safe recovery of Harlow showed the father had brought Harlow in his car to a potential drug deal, before the car rolled into a ditch. Another man, identified as Rodney Thomas, 45, of Parrish, was also charged with two drug crimes. Mason Chappel, 19, was charged with interfering with governmental operations in relation to the case. Parrish police said Madison Freeman was taken into custody in Jasper by the Parrish and Cordova Police Departments and has been transferred to the Walker County Jail. He will go before a judge in the coming days and have his bond will be set at that time, their post said. The Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Investigations, United States Marshalls and Alabama Law Enforcement Agency all assisted in the investigation. Harlow initially went missing and was thought kidnapped on July 10 of this year. She was found more than 12 hours later in her fathers SUV, which had rolled deep into a patch of kudzu. She was dehydrated but ultimately OK after being treated at a local hospital. A Baldwin County man was killed Monday morning when the SUV he was driving collided with a disabled tractor-trailer on I-65, authorities said. Chase J. Sharp, 34, of Bay Minette, was driving a 2015 Ford Explorer when the SUV struck the rear of a 2000 Kenworth tractor-trailer around 6:02 a.m. Monday near the 29-mile marker of I-65, about five miles south of Bay Minette, said Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Senior Trooper Anna Peoples. Sharp, who was not wearing his seat belt at the time of the crash, was pronounced dead at the scene. The tractor-trailer was disabled and partially in the roadway at the time of the wreck, Peoples said. Authorities did not say whether the tractor-trailer driver suffered any injuries. Further information was unavailable as state troopers continued to investigate the wreck. Attacks on rule of law point to need for off-grid money By Clint Siegner web posted September 18, 2023 The assault on individual rights is accelerating, and investors would be wise to think about the assets they hold in a world where the rule of law is failing. Earlier this month, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham banned citizens from carrying firearms in Albuquerque. She was neither bothered nor slowed by recent U.S. Supreme Court affirmations of the 2nd Amendment . Now, unless sheriffs in the state develop the backbone to stand up for citizens, gun owners in New Mexico have a tough choice to make. Those who decide they will not comply with Grisham's illegal order could be arrested and prosecuted. Being arrested is possible and, these days, partisan attorneys general show no qualms about targeting political opponents for prosecution. Raul Torrez, the Democrat elected as New Mexico's Attorney General in 2022, certainly does not appear like one to stand in the way. Like most people who won't acknowledge an individual's right to carry, he thinks people should depend on the government for their defense. "Police officers, district attorneys, leaders in law enforcement here and across the country have to make it unambiguously clear to anyone that it is not their job it is the role of law enforcement to defend property," Torrez said following ANTIFA riots in 2020. To make matters worse, the judiciary has at times joined the assault on rights. The U.S. Supreme Court may have upheld 2nd Amendment rights, but that does not mean activist lower-court judges will set aside their animosity toward individual rights. The rot in the judiciary has shown itself in recent years. Judges, many with lifetime appointments, are totally unaccountable when they render terrible, ideologically driven decisions, even if some are later overturned. New Mexicans who are willing to stand for their 2nd Amendment rights might find vindication at the U.S. Supreme Court, or even in some lower court. However, nothing is certain. Government Could Seize Financial Assets in a Crisis The rule of law is failing in America that is clear. It has largely been abandoned by politicians, sheriffs, prosecutors, and judges in wide swathes of the country. There is a critical lesson here for investors. Politicians with tyrannical instincts aren't going to respect property rights any more than they respect a citizen's right to carry a firearm. If those in power deem it necessary, they will take what they want. The federal government believes several federal laws on the books empower it to seize any private asset it wants in what it deems is an emergency. Americans got a glimpse of this behavior when Franklin Delano Roosevelt ordered Americans to turn in their gold in 1933. Some potential bullion investors worry about that history repeating and wonder whether an investment in gold makes sense. That is too bad because investors who are worried about what happened in 1933 in America should be far more concerned about what happened in Cypress just 10 years ago. During a solvency crisis, the Cypriot government confiscated a portion of the cash balances held in the nation's banks. Officials closed the banks and took what they wanted, without warning. It was quick, and it was easy. Gold and silver have an almost unique advantage versus other common asset classes. Confiscation of private, portable physical metal will be extraordinarily hard, if not impossible. This is especially true without the goodwill and public cooperation enjoyed by FDR. Conventional assets including cash in banks, as well as stocks and bonds held in brokerage accounts, can be seized electronically with little notice. Physical bullion , on the other hand, is off the grid and immune from electronic seizure. That is an increasingly valuable feature in a world where governments are prone to ignore property rights. Clint Siegner is a Director at Money Metals Exchange , the national precious metals company named 2015 "Dealer of the Year" in the United States by an independent global ratings group. A graduate of Linfield College in Oregon, Siegner puts his experience in business management along with his passion for personal liberty, limited government, and honest money into the development of Money Metals' brand and reach. This includes writing extensively on the bullion markets and their intersection with policy and world affairs. Home This is a guest opinion column When I was 13, my father was sentenced to 60 years in prison. I was a kid, but I knew the sentence was unjust. Even then, I knew that his race and class unfairly influenced his sentence. As a young teen, I vowed that I would spend my life advocating for marginalized people. The very next year, I started as a page in the Alabama Legislature. I was in the program for six years. While serving as a page, I had the opportunity to watch legislators work on criminal justice reform. From the time of his incarceration to the time he came home, I engaged and met with legislators, lobbyists and department heads urging them to release my dad due to his unfair sentencing. Due to that work he was released in 2016, after serving just nine years. His experience fueled my passion for justice and my determination to stay engaged. My advocacy is bigger than my family of origin; other people suffer under the weight of injustice. That is why I was motivated to become a plaintiff in Milligan v. Allen, Alabamas historic redistricting case. Having served as a Community Redistricting Organizations Working for Democracy fellow with the Southern Coalition for Social Justice, I was paired with Alabama Forward and worked on its democracy program. Today, I am on Alabama Forwards staff and work as a chief field campaign strategist. In this capacity, I focus on redistricting, or the drawing of legislative lines. And few things are as important as redistricting. Redistricting ensures that communities can participate in democracy and elect candidates of choice. How ironic that this case is in the state of Alabama. If there is a ground zero in the fight for voting rights, it is in Alabama. Alabama was home to docking slave ships and then centuries later the Montgomery Bus Boycott; freedom rides; and, of course, historic marches for voting rights. Civil rights workers were beaten, maimed and killed in Alabama so that those in and out of the state could participate in our nations democracy. The community gave so much, and yet some elected officials are willfully choosing to ignore not only our place in history but our responsibility to preserve democracy. Those in Alabama and those who are part of the movement for racial justice consider Alabama the birthplace of civil rights. The reason the nation enjoys voting rights is because of the struggle and sacrifice of many Alabamians. This is a rich legacy to live into, but we cannot allow the states leadership to choose an alternate, more sinister path. When the U.S. Supreme Court directed Alabama to create two majority-minority districts, it did so because it knew that all voters have the right to elect candidates of choice, and Alabamas current lines eliminated that right for Black voters. The court ordered the Legislature to draw two majority-minority districts, and it drew one. The second district the Legislature drew is only 36% Black voting age population, and the white voting age population is 64%. It left the overwhelmingly white voting age population intact, which will enable those voters to elect their candidate of choice. The current maps make it impossible for Black Alabamians to choose their preferred representatives theyd need representation of over 50% to elect candidates of choice. The court issued its ruling, and now its up to citizens to make the state comply. We must hold elected officials accountable. Elected leaders in our state ran for office on a promise to represent all constituents, and that includes Black and brown voters. We cannot let them off the hook or allow them to manipulate voting lines in a way that disenfranchises the descendants of activists who fought for freedom. Although some Alabama policymakers are on the wrong side of history opposing equal representation our communities cannot let them operate with impunity. This is not the first time our communities have faced recalcitrance from elected leaders, and it wont be the last. We must stay engaged and abreast of whats going on and commit to always raise our voice. If my own story has taught me anything, it is that we are never too young to get involved and fight for change. Khadidah Stone is a fellow with the Black Southern Womens Collaborative. This is a guest opinion column Gun violence continues to plague communities in Alabama, with data revealing that it is sadly the leading cause of death among children in our state. To make matters worse, the detrimental effects of gun violence extend far beyond immediate physical injuries. Victims often endure psychological trauma that can manifest in depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and more. These scars can make them vulnerable to future violence or even lead them to perpetrate violence themselves. The mental health impact is particularly acute in children, whose brains are still developing. If children exhibit these signs within an environment that is not trauma-informed, they can go overlooked. This is particularly true in some of Alabamas less affluent neighborhoods, where school systems often lack the training and resources to recognize signs of trauma. The devastating toll on our youth cannot be overstated. The ripple effects of gun violence dont end there. The impact of gun violence can negatively impact the well-being of an entire city -- far beyond the areas that experience gun violence at higher rates. Tourists and job creators may look elsewhere, lowering median incomes and employment opportunities. Residents may decide to move, and resulting decreases in tax revenue may lead to reductions in city services, including those dedicated to public safety, perpetuating further violence and consequences to the city at-large. Its time we call gun violence for what it is: a disease. And just like any other deadly disease, we must adopt a public health approach of preventive, reactive, and remedial measures to address it. We must acknowledge that law enforcement cannot address endemic gun violence on its own. This issue demands a collaborative data-driven effort that harnesses the expertise and input of educators, public health officials, mental health experts and community organizations as part of the solution. Further, it requires adopting and embracing the latest technologies so we all work smarter for maximum impact on saving lives. This is exactly the approach we are taking in Mobile. Earlier this year, Mayor Stimpsons Office received several messages from an individual threatening to shoot the mayor and specific police officers. Instead of using a show of force response, an officer and clinician part of our co-response program went out to evaluate the individual. The man did not have any weapons, and, in fact, was blind. He had some delusional thoughts and paranoia regarding the government, and we were able to help get him into a psychiatric hospital. A typical response in this situation would have been a SWAT unit breaking into the individuals home with weapons drawn. It would have a high likelihood of a fatal outcome since the person would have difficulty complying with commands in a high-stress situation due to his delusions and visual impairment. When it comes to addressing gun violence, intelligence is key. Its why Mobile P.D. decided to partner with SoundThinking to deploy ShotSpotter technology as part of Operation Echo Stop. ShotSpotter is the leading gunshot detection system that identifies and alerts police to incidents of gunfire that in most cases otherwise go unreported, saving lives. Were also sharing critical gunfire data directly with community violence prevention and health organizations, enabling them to deploy resources when and where theyre needed most. Its essential to emphasize the interconnected nature of our approach in Mobile. We understand that every piece of the puzzle, be it technology, community involvement, or trauma-informed care, works in harmony to address the multi-faceted challenge of gun violence. We have sought to embrace every tool at our disposal in this fight. In the months and years ahead, our approach will undoubtedly evolve according to the latest evidence-based research associated with root causes, risk factors, and potential solutions. Thats a good thing. Data-driven research is proven to have the potential to stem gun traffic, cut down on shootings, and save lives. The time is now to address gun violence head-on and a public health approach is the best approach. Our children deserve no less. Commander Curtis Graves leads the Office of Strategic Initiatives for the Mobile Police Department. Dr. Ashley Williams-Hogue is a trauma surgeon and director of Project Inspire at USA Health University Hospital. Dr. Cindy Gipson is the Associate Director of Crisis Services for AltaPointe Health, the states largest regional behavioral health provider. September 17, 2023 by Amy Gold During the week of September 10, 2023, the famed songwriting duo, Burt Bacharach and Hal David, returned to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 for the first time in almost two decades when Doja Cat's latest single, "Paint The Town Red," reached no. 1 on that chart. This smash, which samples Dionne Warwick's 1964 hit version of "Walk On By," also marks her return to the Billboard Hot 100 after many years since she scored her last no. 1 on that chart in 1986 with "That's What Friends Are For." Bruce Springsteen's Nebraska: Celebrating A Rough Masterpiece will take place September 19, 2023 in Nashville, TN as part of Americanafest. This event, which pays tribute in concert to The Boss' same-named 1982 album, will be taped for the upcoming PBS "Recorded Live at Analog" series to premiere in 2024. Also that week, it was announced that the Eric Clapton-hosted Crossroads Guitar Festival taking place September 23 and 24 in Los Angeles will be coming to pay-per-view for those who cannot make it in person to this event. Clapton will headline both nights with other featured performers to include Santana, Stephen Stills, and ZZ Top. For more info and to purchase tickets, visit crossroadsguitarfestival.com. Finally, fans can win the opportunity to perform alongside Rod Stewart on November 11, 2023 in Las Vegas during his residency at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace. Donations will go towards the Prince's Trust, a U.K. charity supporting disadvantaged young people into work, education, and training. For more info, visit prizeo.com. Newly-Announced Tours & Shows: (Band/Artist - Event(s) - Location - Dates) Bob Dylan - Tour (Rough And Rowdy Ways) - U.S. - October 1, 2023 - November 21, 2023 Kansas - Tour (Another Fork In The Road 50th Anniversary) - U.S. - February 2, 2024-May 18, 2024 Newly-Announced Recordings: (Band/Artist - Title - Format - Release Date) Joni Mitchell - Like Veils Said Lorraine (single from "Joni Mitchell Archives, Vol. 3: The Asylum Years (1972-1975)") - digital download, streaming - September 14, 2023 Van Halen - It's About Time (single from "The Collection II") - digital download, streaming - September 14, 2023 Van Morrison - Shakin' All Over (single from "Accentuate The Positive") - digital download, streaming - September 14, 2023 Steve Miller - Mama Church (A Capella) (single from "J50: The Evolution Of The Joker") - digital download, streaming - September 14, 2023 Barbra Streisand - Evergreen (Love Theme From 'A Star Is Born') (single from "Evergreens: Celebrating Six Decades On Columbia Records") - digital download, streaming - September 14, 2023 Steve Miller - J50: The Evolution Of The Joker (50th anniversary box set) - CD, vinyl, digital download, streaming - September 15, 2023 Barbra Streisand - Papa, Can You Hear Me? (single from "Yentl: 40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition") - digital download, streaming - October 6, 2023 Joni Mitchell - Joni Mitchell Archives, Vol. 3: The Asylum Years (1972-1975) - CD, vinyl, digital download, streaming - October 6, 2023 Van Halen - The Collection II (box set) - CD, vinyl, digital download, streaming - October 6, 2023 David Bowie - Pin Ups (50th anniversary release) - vinyl - October 20, 2023 Led Zeppelin - Led Zeppelin IV (1971 album reissue) - vinyl - October 27, 2023 Frank Sinatra - Frank Sinatra Platinum - CD, vinyl, digital download, streaming - October 27, 2023 Barbra Streisand - Evergreens: Celebrating Six Decades On Columbia Records - CD, vinyl, digital download, streaming - October 27, 2023 Barbra Streisand - Yentl: 40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition - CD, vinyl, digital download, streaming - October 27, 2023 Van Morrison - Accentuate The Positive - CD, vinyl, digital download, streaming - November 3, 2023 Billy Joel - Billy Joel-The Vinyl Collection, Vol. 2 (box set) - vinyl - November 3, 2023 Bob Marley & The Wailers - Catch A Fire (50th anniversary reissue) - CD, vinyl, digital download, streaming - November 3, 2023 Chicago - Chicago Greatest Christmas Hits - CD, vinyl, digital download, streaming - November 3, 2023 Micky Dolenz - Dolenz Sings R.E.M. (EP) - CD, vinyl - November 3, 2023 Bob Dylan - The Complete Budokan 1978 (archival live album) - CD, vinyl, digital download, streaming - November 17, 2023 New & Upcoming Books: (Author - Title - Publisher - Publication Date) One hundred years ago, an Italian socialist with astoundingly unruly hair named Antonio Gramsci dreamed up yet another sure-fire way to usher in the global Marxist utopia, coined by Rudi Dutschke as the long march through the institutions. I say another way because the original belief that we peasants would spontaneously overthrow our oppressors turned out to be a non-starter. The subsequent fashionable theory that the workers paradise only needed the small push of a violent takeover to get down the runway and up in the air also appeared to be stuck in second gear. Spoiler alert: socialism only has two speeds; stagnation, and gulag. Read enough history and the long struggle to unchain the workers of the world begins to remind one of that Bugs Bunny cartoon where Yosemite Sam finds a muzzle-loading musket and plans to blast Bugs with it. Trouble is, Sams unclear as to what order the powder, shot, and wadding should be loaded down the barrel. He keeps getting it wrong and the charge goes off in his face each time the ram rod is employed. From a safe distance, Bugs Bunny watches this repeated performance and snickers. Yosemite Sam never learns from his mistakes, and apparently neither do socialists. No matter how many times the Marxist model blows up in their faces, they keep tweaking the settings to inflict damage upon another nation. The concept that perhaps socialisms basic assumptions regarding societies and human nature are (to put it mildly), wrong, is steadfastly denied. It could be that such a train of thought turns out to be an express ticket to abandoning socialism. Marxists are under the illusion that the bulk of people are trapped in an exploitative state. And, if you benefit from this arrangement, you are in fact an evil exploiter, or at best an exploiters helper. Maybe exploiters enabler is a more fashionable term. Any action which upends this system is justified, and boy howdy! how they love to wriggle through that moral loophole to rationalize their deeds. So, you best get with the program right quick. Storm the barricades or suffer the wrath of the proletariat. Trouble is, socialism is founded upon the basic assumption that people, the masses, are both homogeneous and incapable of figuring out how to run their own lives without the benevolent leadership of an enlightened intelligentsia. The enlightened intelligentsia of course is assumed to be the indoctrinated socialists, trained to shove the Marxist answer into any problem. Another cartoon character typifies that personality type: Wile E. Coyote. The reality is that people are not all the same. Every single individual in the world has different wants and needs. And each of us is capable of achieving our goals, in spite of obstacles. We can argue about reasonable goals. But there are numerous examples of people succeeding against the odds through sheer determination. Evolution has molded us that way through millennia of trial and error. Or, God created us with those traits. Take your pick, because that is the subject of another essay (dragging a lengthy tail of reader comments no doubt). I strongly suspect socialists cling to the view of humanity as something which is in dire need of salvation, not because of a rational analysis of history and psychology but because it presents a convenient rationale to cosplay as a savior; others have noted this psychosis. Socialism is a self-reinforcing and morally-justified excuse to seize control of others, without the need for performance reviews. Before you crank up the what-about machine to point out the similar behavior of forced conversions to Christianity throughout history, allow me to concede that was wrong as well. I wont condemn the entirety of Islam for the crimes of fanatical Islamicists. And I wont tar all of Christianity for the abuses of a limited group of zealots. Socialists, jihadists, and militant evangelists are likely over-supplied with Yosemite Sams and Wile E. Coyotes, indulging their fantasies and neuroses under ideologies of convenience. Given my druthers, I would leave these paragons of Marxist virtue alone to wander their imaginary worlds at will. However, socialists seem compelled to drag us all to dystopia along with them. Not to mention sticking us with the bill for the trip. Which brings us back to Signor Gramsci and his guaranteed march to socialism, via a scenic detour through cultural institutions. Gramsci reasoned that proletarian apathy is mainly a matter of lack of proper indoctrination. The remedy is to teach us ignorant peasants about the wondrous benefits of collectivism by slowly infesting and then controlling the institutions of education, government, and media. That accomplished, we would welcome the benevolent rule of Marxists with open arms. Inherent in this approach is the assumption that people are blank sheets of paper, to be filled with the formulas of approved ideology controlled by cultural institutions. Which is to some extent true, but not completely. Institutions are conveniences, purpose-built devices to accomplish some useful tasks. Schools are supposed to educate, authorities to enforce the law, media to inform and entertain. They work best when the focus is kept on the intended function. Some amount of inefficiency and tomfoolery is tolerable, as long as the job gets done. However, a tipping point is sooner or later reached where the institution has obviously been hijacked. Indoctrination replaces education. Laws are selectively enforced, if at all. Media becomes unpalatable propaganda. Marx, Lenin, Gramsci were all under the illusion that people are perfectible, moldable into flawless beings; all that is needed is the right sculptor and the proper tools. By the time Stalin, Mao, and Castro came along, progressives had given up on perfection and were happy to settle for power instead. Either perfection or power depend upon people to behave as sheep. Human beings are not sheep. We are closer to wolves. God or evolution made us this way, probably for good reasons. The supreme irony is that socialists claim to free humanity from oppression. Instead, they have only caused more of it. The most effective answer to oppression yet found is a product of the revolution of 1776, and consists of simply allowing people to run their own darn lives. The socialist tragedies of 1789, 1917, 1922, 1933 1949, 1959, and on and on, have only bred misery by imposing tyranny. So, we will suffer through the nonsense of Gramscis long march through the institutions. As we have suffered through the Wilsons League of Nations scheme, and FDRs New Deal administrative state expansion, and Johnsons Great Society scam, and Nixons new three-letter agencies, and Carters malaise, and Clintons corruption, and Obamas fundamental transformation, and Bidens two-tiers of justice. Perhaps some of the hijacked institutions can be saved by replacing rotted timbers, if the foundation is still sound. We will abandon the institutions which are too far gone, and rebuild them anew. Because those organizations are there for our benefit and convenience, not as playthings for the enlightened intelligentsia. The leftists will never learn from their mistakes. But we should. Image: Free image, Pixabay license, no attribution required. Im an unabashed, 66-year-old, flag-waving American. That makes me somewhat of a dinosaur in todays America. I support my country with the understanding that we are neither perfect nor can we control or intervene in every world event that distresses me. But I also recognize there are times we must act in our self-interest. The Death of Truth didnt happen overnight. As with COVID-19s origins, we may never know if the release of the plague (whether the attack on truth or the COVID-19 virus) was an accident or deliberate; we just know it likely happened. Only one in ten Americans trust their government today, down from 77% during the Eisenhower Administration. Consider how Americas enemies divide us: A. Democrats enact programs that siphon away independence, creating dependencies. Free Stuff is never free, and Deficit Spending is the chain that binds us as slavery did so long ago. B. Mass Unrestrained Immigration is a tool of the Devil. Blame Republicans for acquiescing to Democrats demands for an Open Border. Invite outsiders in, feed them, house them, and provide medical care, utilities, laundry services, and even phones so that they can encourage others to follow. Like a star in the sky beckoning all to come, Democrats salivate at all the new voters theyll control one day. Anyone who believes otherwise is a fool. If this policy continued for another ten years, at least 25 million more would have come, maybe a lot more. Who doesnt understand this? The flow will only diminish when there is no more Free Stuff. That will see the final looting of America commence by a horde of people simply fighting to stay alive. C. Free speech and free thought face an impending death if we allow it. The Founding Fathers could never have contemplated such. Yet, it is real and presents the most significant impediment to fighting back against the Destroyers. Control of information, Speech, and, importantly, even our associations are threatened as they demonstrate what happens to those that oppose them. Did you know that more people have been arrested for January 6th offenses than those who actually entered the Capital? D. Property and Personal Rights are the cornerstone of our Republic. While everyone understands that our Personal Rights are under siege, Property Rights are equally important and in the same predicament. My Father always said, Someone who will take your property will take your life under different circumstances, as they have demonstrated across our country. E. We have a government, press, and elected leaders who no longer know how to speak truth. How often have you asked someone a simple yes/no question only to get a non-answer? It seems impossible to hear the truth spoken anymore. Republicans are frequently just as guilty as Democrats. This must stop, and we must all hold Truth to Power. For more than 200 years, America has lived in the light of our constitutionally unique American Democracy. Not perfectly, but generally, we encourage American-style freedoms and Democracy wherever possible. Sadly, only later did we understand not all the world desires our system of values and responsibilities. This is perhaps the most important comeuppance weve learned after losing too much life and treasure. (Its an entirely different article to explain the dichotomy of how we failed to understand this and why everyone is not ready for freedom as we define it.) I accept that millions coming here or those receiving our foreign aid are not actually looking to assimilate or be our friends; they only want what they can get. Thats where we are in the world. Other countries have some of the same problems, but totalitarian countries, like China, seem to understand human nature better than we do, seeing things from their white/black perspective. For example, they fear the Uyghurs, who represent an internal threat to their authority; therefore, they imprison them, subject them to reprogramming, and worse, despite world outrage. We must be realistic that the groups and individuals who overrun our open borders frequently wont assimilate and threaten our sacred pillars of Democracy, Education, and Work ethic. Yet, we allow them to come and subsidize them when they do. This national threat is now understood as suicide, even by some Progressives. Mayor Eric Adams mouthed the words Progressives didnt want to hear: Migrant Crisis Will Destroy New York City. Those same thoughts extend everywhere. Conservatives like myself have become disenchanted with the Republican Party. No, Im not joining that other party. Being an Independent does not sit well with me either. I cant decide where I belong. The Republican Party still espouses many of the vital tenets that resonate with me, but they cant get their act together, and they too frequently fail when they are in power. They compromise too much. Compromise is acceptable on the margins but not when it comes to core principles. Compromise frequently emerges as the worst possible choice. It also corrupts those doing the compromising. Where is that bright Red Line that we should not cross? I fear we have forgotten that line so long ago that most Republicans have lost their bearings and are adrift. We need clear doctrines to guide us, which can be broadly shared. Millions of staunch Conservatives/Republicans now question their partys motives and effectiveness. At a time when we should be coming together, we are more apart. Message Discipline flows from the top. Todays Democratic Party is more closely aligned in practice with China than traditional United States values. Democrats pound their members to ensure they stay on message. I dont believe for a minute that all Democrats are Progressives, but you wouldnt know it by their voting records. Democrats generally vote in lockstep; Republicans, not dependably. This is how Republicans got so off track and why people like myself are straying off the Reservation. They cant decide if theres enough difference between the two. Of course, there is, but our loss of trust for our Republican leaders is profound and will relegate us to insignificance if we dont get our act together soon. Democrats threw down the gauntlet decades ago, instituting policies and spending priorities, and are executing a better strategy than Republicans. They are winning. Simply trying to emulate them wont work. The answer is to understand the damage the Democrats have caused and educate enough people to understand that their best future is to live and act as Conservatives. This is how America was born and arrived at its zenith. Rebuilding trust in our party is job one. We cant survive this level of distrust intact. Distrust of our government and leaders will lead us to either a Civil War or a Totalitarian government to keep us in check. All signs point to our government not trusting its citizens and putting programs and laws that restrict our God-given rights into effect. Will we learn from our mistakes, or will we continue to follow a failed dogma because it is familiar? Please wake up, America; time is short to change course and snatch victory from defeat. God Bless America. Image by Andrea Widburg using a Pixlr image. The op-ed pages of this Sundays New York Times featured a revelation from author Melissa Kearney: The Explosive Rise of Single Parent Families Is Not a Good Thing. Flash to Melissa: a chubby Italian priest named Thomas Aquinas made the same observation about 800 years ago (albeit without noting the aberration was on an explosive rise). Kearney undoubtedly wants to plump her forthcoming book which, based on reviews, seems to be intriguing some liberals. Im less sanguine, because I think its title, The Two-Parent Privilege: How Americans Stopped Getting Married and Started Falling Behind, betrays a perspective that, in turn, bespeaks an agenda that -- unless disavowed -- will never solve this not good thing, AKA crisis. The opening paragraph of the Times essay does not encourage me: There has been a huge transformation in the way children are raised in the United States: the erosion of the convention of raising children inside a two-parent home. This shift is often not publicly challenged or lamented, in an effort to be inclusive of a diversity of family arrangements. But this well-meaning acceptance obscures the critical reality that this change is hurting our children and our society. Yes, there has been a huge transformation in child-rearing. But part of that transformation comes from speaking of raising children in a two-parent home as a convention rather than norm. If Kearney wants to fudge so as not a priori to alienate the chattering classes, well -- norm can be understood in a sociological (the norm is what most people do) rather than an axiological (the norm is what people should do) sense. But Im not sure this isnt just an effort to avoid preemptive tune-out. Amazon describes the book as a provocative, data-driven case for marriage by showing how the institutions decline has led to a host of economic woes -- problems that have fractured American society and rendered vulnerable populations even more vulnerable. Eschewing the religious and values-based arguments that have long dominated this conversation, Kearney shows how the greatest impacts of marriage are, in fact, economic. There is a prior question here: is the rearing of children in families composed of two sexually differentiated parents married to each other merely an accidental convention that arose due to certain historical and cultural circumstances or is there something normative -- that this is how things should be -- about it? Were history and culture mugged by the tag team of the discriminatory gender binary and the patriarchy? Or, rather, is the ideological baggage of the sexual revolution and gender theory responsible for the deteriorating state of American children? One can argue a data-driven case and, for some Americans for whom quantification results in an intellectual orgasm, that effort may be useful. But describing the good (since the title says our current arrangements are not a good thing) from a data point of view generally inclines people to think of that good as a useful good, something measured in terms of its social utility. But we are talking about people and, since both Jesus and Kant, we have been warned against measuring peoples good in terms of usefulness. Perhaps arguing our current parenting arrangements through economic analysis might be convincing to some Chamber of Commerce Republicans (those poor kids arent going to be good consumers, based on their Experian scores) but that argument, to me, ought to reveal the bankruptcy of the social conservative versus economic conservative dichotomy. No, Mr. Wall Street, those children are not going to be good consumers because theyve started and remained lower on the socioeconomic scale. But neither are they going to be good citizens, because, starting lower on that scale and backed up by apologists for root causes, they are also likely to vandalize your store, those who passed basic math standards at least doing the elementary calculation of how much larceny they can commit before triggering woke DAs to prosecute. Pace Kearneys claim, the shift away from two-parent families has been publicly challenged. Its just that the mainstream media has refused to report those challenges. At least once upon a time, priests and preachers railed against sexual immorality. Daniel Patrick Moynihan, no right-wing deplorable, wrote about the implosion of the African-American family over 50 years ago. Whats changed is that what he said then of Black families is now true of many American families regardless of race. Social scientists have been documenting the corrosive effects of marriage decline and alternate child-rearing practices for decades: the National Marriage Project has done yeoman work in this field. To the degree that Kearneys work helps staunch this social hemorrhage which is damaging both children and women while pretending to liberation and diversity, I make common cause. But I have my doubts when, out of the gate, it seems to refuse to diagnose a disease as a disease in order to be inclusive of a diversity of family arrangements. A childs right to his mother and father who conceived, bore, and raised him is not a privilege. Its a right of which too many kids have been stripped because their parents want to call their acting as kids rights. John Grondelski (Ph.D., Fordham) was former associate dean of the School of Theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange, New Jersey. All views herein are exclusively his. Image: Univestiry of Chicago Press Since the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991, Ukraine started the practice of de-Stalinization, de-Leninization, and comprehensive de-communization. In the process, it acquired many friends, non-friends, and enemies. Naturally, all of them showed their colors in the Russo-Ukrainian War. A part of the Left embraces Ukraine's cause because it makes them anti-Russia -- the theme they cannot vacate from following the "Trump is Putin's agent" hoax. They invested exorbitant political capital in the anti-Trump "Russia-Russia-Russia" frenzy. A portion of conservatives support Ukraine because it traditionally backs the independence of legitimate nations, such as Israel or Taiwan. Many on the Left reject Ukraine's sovereignty because they cannot forgive Ukraine for dismantling and emblematically throwing in the trash can communist symbols, statues, and worldviews. Some conservatives ignore Ukraine's plea for help because, in their view, their own country's troubles are exponentially more critical than the problems of the territory somewhere in Eastern Europe. Besides, it occupies the world's leading position in corruption metrics. These diametrical positions are understandable. However, all of them are imprudent because their adherents focus on only one war while unthinkingly ignoring the rest. In fact, at least three major wars are going on simultaneously instead of just one. First, the autocratic Russian regime wages undeclared war on Russian citizens. Second, radical left-wingers are in open conflict with the population of the United States. Observing those two wars, a prominent suzerain -- the Chinese Communist Party -- orchestrated the shooting war between Russia and Ukraine. It is the same old story: a "clever" left-wing regime cooperates with another not-so-smart left-wing government to implement the New World Order because they realize they cannot make the World Revolution alone. They don't have the economic or military power to do so. The solution? Make the not-so-clever leftists engage in a prolonged, exhaustive battle with some arbitrary targets. The goal is not to destroy a neighboring or faraway land. The intent is to drain every state involved to the desired degree of weakness. After this, the "clever" leftists will strike the decisive blow, overpowering both ideologically antagonistic states. If the narration reminds you of something, it should be no surprise -- we just described how Stalin stimulated World War II by exploiting no-so-wise Hitler. How did they do it in the case of Ukraine? Everybody has heard about the "rights of the Russian-speaking Donbas" (industrial region of the Ukrainian East) and their numerous "violations." What is calculatedly hidden from the public is the underlying reason why so many ethnic Russians live in Eastern Ukraine. When Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin used manufactured food crises in 1930s communist-occupied Ukraine, it triggered the Holodomor. (Note it is a standard leftist approach. Currently, China weaponizes food prices globally by using Russia's hands.) The widespread famine killed millions of Ukrainians -- all in an attempt to crush opposition to communist ideas. The residents of primarily agricultural West Ukraine, which had many small farms, had a better chance of survival than the relatively industrialized East Ukraine population. Ultimately, Stalin decided to repopulate East Ukraine by forcing families from central Russia to relocate to Eastern Ukraine's wastelands. They quartered Russians in houses by then-murdered Ukrainians and allocated parcels of land. Russians brought their language, culture, and traditions and -- in return for handouts from the Soviet government -- became loyal servants to the communist powers. The tensions between cohabitants -- native Ukrainians and involuntary "invaders" -- had been growing since the 1940s, and even the iron fist of the Soviet dictators could not suppress them. Eventually, the foreseeable but not easily predictable turning point, like a secret intelligence agency (KGB) taking over Russia, set Ukraine on a collision course with China's client state. Over the years, both presidents -- Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin -- have demonstrated unmistakable signs that they are on the Chinese payroll. During a recent press conference in Vietnam, Joe Biden stated, "I don't want to contain China" and "We're all better off if China does well." For his part, Vladimir Putin is solidly in China's orbit: economically as a junior partner and politically as a vassal. Per China's request, both presidents are working tirelessly to impoverish the countries they helm: Russia with war on its neighbor and the United States as Ukraine's primary weapons and financial supplier. Both are doing Chinese Communists' bidding, preparing economic, political, and assaultive conditions for Mao's version of leftism to establish the New World Order. All this while China plays the diplomatic role of peacemaker. Fortunately, it is not a hot world war yet, but the Russo-Ukrainian War affected countries on all continents. However, the wars mastermind, the Chinese Communists, cannot assert firm control over rapidly unfolding events. Thus, the sum of unintended consequences greatly outweighs the matters under Chinese management and control. Chinese Communists may have worked hard to normalize aggression, but they are certainly not the first. The history of leftist actions indicates that they plotted constantly for the World Revolution in one form or another. In other words, the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war should not be considered an isolated incident. This war is just one single line in the overall leftist project plan. Other items from that plan are well-known. Recall the COVID-19 hysteria (even if the virus itself was not intentionally released from the Wuhan lab, the political component of the pandemic is unquestionable). Also consider "climate change" (sorry -- it is now called "global burning") and WEF-promoted ersatz-fascism. The leftist informational blockade is challenging to break through. The card-carrying ideological foot soldiers have infiltrated media and social networks. They -- knowingly and sometimes unknowingly -- joined forces with a plethora of "woke" intelligence agencies. Many segments of society are not trained to see the forest behind trees because the description of reality and the corresponding political vocabulary are firmly in the hands of the Left. Like an experienced magician, China shows what it wants the world to perceive while keeping the actual agenda well camouflaged. Who do you think finances the barbaric invasion of illegals into the West? Who continues to invest in the Soviet-era "Red Cocaine" strategy, but with modern narcotics like fentanyl? Every time leftists feel the chorus of people asking inconvenient questions is exceedingly loud, new, "recently declassified" UFO sightings suddenly appear. The beneficiaries of the present-day Russo-Ukrainian War are not in Europe or the Americas, Africa, or Australia. The heirs presumptive are China's Communist Party Politburo; all human beings outside the leftist ecosystem must learn that lesson. The unfortunates of Europe's most significant military campaign since World War II are easy to spot: Ukrainian, Russian, American, Polish, British, French, and German masses -- just to name a few, and most of Africa's inhabitants. To conclude, American and Russian presidents are not independent players on the world stage; instead, they are tasked with presiding over the decline. That leaves the Ukrainian president between a rock and a hard place. Ironically, leftist history suggests that the Chinese will soon become victims, too. Gary Gindler, Ph.D., is a conservative columnist at Gary Gindler Chronicles and a new science founder: Politiphysics. Follow him on Twitter/X. Image: Public Domain William Shakespeare wrote in Hamlet, To be or not to be: that is the question. I ask the same about impeaching President Joe Biden to impeach or not impeach. Speaker Kevin McCarthy answered that question, and the process is moving forward, at least in appearance. Here is what Hamlet then said, Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, Or to take arms against a sea of troubles, And by opposing end them? Hamlet is wondering if it is better to end ones suffering through suicide or to take the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune by fighting on. Which is preferable? Will the Republicans, known as the stupid party, botch this, committing political suicide in November 2024? Or will they finally grow a spine and push back against the Democrats and administrative state? I know how former President Donald Trump would answer as he did even before he was elected president. In a famous October 2016 speech he promised, Nevertheless, I take all of these slings and arrows gladly for you. Will impeaching Biden be a political home run or lead to a sea of troubles in November 2024? Many have pontificated on the merits and pitfalls of impeachment. What is the best course forward? President Bidens transgressions certainly rise to the level of high crimes and misdemeanors. His family sold the former vice presidents influence to foreign players, including countries not friendly to U.S. interests. YouTube screen grab Hunter Biden supported his grifting family, serving as the bagman raking in tens of millions from China, Ukraine, Russia, Kazakhstan, and who knows where else. He paid father Joes and the familys expenses and built into his deals 10 percent for the Big Guy, a.k.a., Pops. Joe participated in at least 20 of Hunters shakedown phone calls, clearly involved in his sons foreign influence peddling despite his protestations to the contrary. Joe didnt have to say anything significant on those calls. Simply having the U.S. vice president on the line spoke volumes to the influence Hunter was offering his business associates. Trump administration officials were prosecuted for FARA violations. Biden family members received a pass. Dont be distracted by Hunters gun indictment as that is one of few of his transgressions that doesnt involve his father, conveniently enough. Trump was indicted with a mugshot plastered all over social media. Wheres Hunters mugshot? Trump was impeached for asking Ukraine to investigate what we know now was Biden family influence-peddling. What Trump asked about was true and he was impeached for asking, with some Republican senators even voting for his conviction. Yet Biden gets a pass for corruptly doing what Trump was only asking about. What exactly are the Biden family businesses requiring more than 20 shell companies to presumably hide and launder money? Why have banks filed over 150 suspicious activity reports over Biden family financial transactions? To most honest observers, Bidens transgressions are obvious. So, impeachment should be a slam dunk, right? Some Republican House members are either cognitively impaired or willfully obtuse and see no evidence of any wrongdoing. Colorado Rep. Ken Buck sees no evidence that Biden committed a high crime or misdemeanor. He has been all over cable news, morphing from a Tea Party conservative into a Mitt Romney clone, a Democrat apologist and enabler. Speaking of Mitt, he agrees with Kenny B., saying, "I haven't heard any allegation that would rise to the level of a high crime and misdemeanor." Good thing Romney isnt running for reelection. Maybe Buck will follow Romneys lead. Romney used his age of 76 as his excuse for not seeking reelection. He looks healthy and vigorous, and appears of sound, although non-conservative, mind, light years better than some of his Senate colleagues. The reality is he would not win reelection and Trump would target him bigly through Utah Trump rallies. He describes himself as a wise wing Republican. In 2012, he was a severe conservative. In reality, he is a Rockefeller country club Republican whose forte is giving concession speeches. While impeachment seems an obvious remedy to Biden Family foreign influence peddling, the optics of impeachment are often unfavorable. President Bill Clinton was not impeached over Oval Office sex with a White House intern, despite the media narrative, but instead over perjury in grand jury testimony and obstruction of justice. Clinton remained popular and George W. Bush barely won the White House in 2020. If Al Gore embraced rather than ran away from Bill Clinton, he might have won the election. Similarly, Trump is more popular than ever after his two nonsensical impeachments, now leading the GOP field by almost 50 points, according to a recent Fox News poll. Would lunch-bucket Joe be more popular after impeachment? Impeachment, if it continues, will become a major campaign issue. Could the House even impeach Biden? Republicans have a 10 seat majority in the House. Peel off a few weak-kneed Republicans like Rep. Buck and the GOP wont have the votes for impeachment. Unlike Democrats who are unified as a party, the GOP is filled with mavericks who prefer to virtue signal and audition for future cable news gigs rather than follow the will of their voters. The Senate is worse, requiring a two thirds majority to convict. Republicans are in the minority in the Senate and linguine-spined Republicans like Romney, Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski and others will not likely vote to convict Biden regardless of the evidence. So why bother if impeachment is dubious and conviction impossible? The biggest reason is that the House impeachment committees would now have greater subpoena power. Congress can subpoena for legislative purpose. General oversight may not fall into that category according to some leftist judges. But impeachment is a legislative process spelled out in the Constitution. Time to look at Biden family bank and phone records and efforts of the FBI and DOJ to hide and obfuscate their obligation to investigate and apply the law equally and fairly. Sunlight is the best disinfectant ahead of the election and now is the perfect time to expose it all. Where will the money and influence chicanery lead? To the Clintons? How about the Obamas? What did Barack Obama know about his vice presidents influence-peddling and bribery and when did he know it? Those revelations might be inconvenient to Mrs. Obama who is rumored to be the dark horse Democrat candidate for 2024 as filmmaker Joel Gilbert persuasively explains. The Democrats will howl over impeachment, braying as are Republicans Romney and Buck, that there is no evidence. The White House gave their media sycophants marching orders to ramp up scrutiny over impeachment charges, in other words, do their duty to the Democrat party to run interference rather than report the news. Shouldnt Republicans let Biden twist in the wind? If there is no impeachment inquiry, then the GOP loses subpoena power and the government, assisted by the media, will bury any negative Biden family stories. Just as they did with Hunter Bidens laptop. The administrative deep state is obviously worried about what may come of these revelations. The CIA, through its mouthpieces David Ignatius and the Washington Post, is calling for President Biden to not run in 2024. They must have an idea of upcoming revelations, more than Biden family grift and finances, perhaps Ukraine biolabs funded by Hunters companies or other inconvenient family activities. Imagine tying the Biden family to COVID or the Ukraine war. They want to get way ahead of this as further revelations will likely lead back to the CIA, FBI, and the Obamas. Cant have that. The Bidens are expendable, the deep state is not. Let the impeachment inquiry begin. Show the evidence of Biden family influence-peddling and bribery and whoever else it leads to. When the heat gets too warm in the Obama and Clinton kitchens, dont be surprised to see Joe sent permanently to the beach house via the 25th Amendment followed quickly by a President Kamala Harris pardon of the entire Biden family. When Joe becomes an anchor around 2024 electoral prospects, let the Democrats be the hatchet men, dispatching Joe, Jill, Jim and Hunter, Tony Soprano-style, never to be heard from again, free to live lives of luxury with their ill-gotten money. So far, the Biden crime family has gotten a pass. Dont expect the FBI and DOJ to do their jobs. They no longer represent justice, rather they are the private police force of the Democrat party. Republicans are the last hope to right this injustice system or else America will further descend into a one-party totalitarian police state. To impeach or not to impeach? Thats an easy answer. Republicans must take the inevitable slings and arrows as that is what we elected them to do. If they are not willing, then turn out the lights on the Republican Party and the great American experiment. Brian C. Joondeph, M.D., is a physician and writer. Follow me on Twitter @retinaldoctor, Substack Dr. Brians Substack, Truth Social @BrianJoondeph, and LinkedIn @Brian Joondeph. The Background: Seth Rich, a DNC staffer, was murdered on July 10, 2016. The DC Metro Police attributed his death to a botched robbery. Thats tragic but straightforward. Why, then, is the FBI refusing to release the information from Richs laptop? Perhaps its because Rich is the key to understanding the Russian collusion narrative that the Democrats and Deep State used to such savage effect against Trump, up to and including the 2020 campaign, when operatives lied about Hunter Bidens laptop. Anyone questioning the official narrative was immediately labeled a conspiracy theorist and canceled. The Russian Disinformation Narrative The Con: The convenient Russian collusion claim had its roots in 2016 when the FBI knowingly used the false Russian narrative to weave together a FISA search warrant affidavit alleging that two low-level Trump campaign volunteers, Carter Page, and George Papadopoulos, were Russian assets. They were not. However, unaware of that fact, the FISA court issued a search warrant and three subsequent warrants for counter-espionage surveillance authorizations. Special Counsel John Durhams team thoroughly debunked the Russian collusion narrative during the trial of Attorney Michael Sussman. From the trial testimony and evidence introduced, we learned that the Russian collusion narrative was created, paid for, and leaked to the media at the behest of Hillary Clinton and her operatives, and aided by the FBI and CIA in a domestic disinformation operation. The FBI retargeted the fabricated counter-espionage investigation to spy illegally, first, on candidate and, then, on President-elect Trump. The FBI knowingly failed to disclose the dual-purpose nature of these warrants to the FISA judge(s) who reviewed and issued these warrants. The FBI agents, including then-Director James Comey, lied by omission to the FISA court, as they later did in the Mar-a-Lago warrant. To this day, there has been no criminal accountability for these FBI agents. AI Image of Seth Rich. The Lies, the Pay to Play Schemes, and Election Interference: Beginning before the 2016 election and continuing through the 2020 election, the media headlined the Russian meme daily without batting an eye. Our intel community, with sycophant members of Congress, assured us the Russian narrative was true. In fact, it was the illegal product of the FBI, the CIA, and other agencies. So-called Russian disinformation affected the 2020 campaign by disguising Bidens malfeasance. From the information on Hunters laptop and the new evidence from the House oversight hearings, there is prima facie evidence that the Biden family, headed by Joe Biden, engaged in a pay-to-play scheme. Millions of dollars changed hands via Hunter the bagman. Coincidentally, as Vice president and President, Biden made policy decisions detrimental to American interests and beneficial to those who paid him (Secretary Hillary Clinton did the same). Polling has since revealed that, had the voters known Hunters laptops information was genuine, 15% said they would not have voted for Biden. This change was enough that it would have swung the 2020 election to Donald Trump. The public was denied this truth. The intel community and the media dismissed Hunters laptop as Russian disinformation. We know now this was not true. Fifty-one high-level retired intel officials, including former CIA Director John Brennan and Director of National Intelligence (DNI) James Clapper, issued a letter saying the laptop had all the earmarks of Russian disinformation. This infamous letter was released only days before the 2020 Presidential election. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, then a member of Joe Bidens campaign staff, played a role in creating and releasing the letter, as did the CIA. DNI Director John Ratcliffe, under Trump, categorically denied Hunters laptop was Russian disinformation. Who is lying? What does this have to do with Seth Rich? Well, the Russian collusion narratives political strength was how it played out following the hack of the Democratic National Committees (DNC) server and Wikileaks release of compromising information on Candidate Hillary Clinton and the DNC (sandbagging then-candidate Bernie Sanders). The FBI and others contended the hack resulted from Russian collusion in Trumps favor. Given that Russian collusion was a lie, who did hack the DNC server? Was it Seth Rich, a DNC software developer? Jack Cashill wrote the best summary of the circumstances surrounding Richs murder. Based on secondhand statements, Cashill reports that Rich was the leaks source. After several contentious civil suits or visits by the Men in Black, these sources went silent. Troublesome questions were left unanswered. Rich had a motive. Rich was a supporter of Bernie Sanders. Rich surely knew that Clinton and the DNC were sandbagging Bernie Sanders as they are now doing with RFK Jr. Rich had physical access to the DNC server, so he could have copied the files to a thumb drive and then physically handed it to Wikileaks. Wikileaks founder Julian Assange, who published the DNC files, continues to deny the files came from the Russians. Assange earlier published NSA top secret documents with evidence of wide-ranging potentially illegal spying by the US. Our intel community is hot to have Assange extradited from Great Britain but, as far as I know, no one ever interviewed him. Why? Perhaps they already knew the answer? (See more here) The DOJ and FBI are playing a cat-and-mouse game by deep-sixing Richs laptop. The Gateway Pundit reported on August 21, 2023, that the FBI initially said it had nothing involving the investigation of the murder of Rich. Later, the FBI admitted it did have some information on Richs death and then admitted it had Richs laptop. The FBI said it would release the contents, giving an estimate of sixty-six years to produce. The FBI did so only after many FOIAs and civil suits by Judicial Watch and Attorney Ty Clevenger. Shades of Hunters Laptop from Hell? My question is, what are the FBI and CIA hiding this time? Maybe Obamas fingerprints? Conclusion and Opinion: Our government has engaged in many unlawful acts. Its agents lie with impunity to cover for its criminal acts (see, e.g., American Thinker articles). A common thread and purpose run through these illegal actions: the FBI (the Democrats Praetorian Guard) and others behave like an organized criminal cartel. The FBI, CIA, and DNI committed many crimes to secure Hillary Clintons presidential election. Once Trump was elected, the Cartel continued with a soft coup to unseat him. The Cartel silenced any who would dare stand in opposition through government-directed censorship, politically based selective prosecutions, entrapment, lying, the unlawful use of force under the color of authority, obstruction of justice, by the subversion of the rule of law and equal justice, by flagrant violating the civil rights of the people, and the defilement of the US Constitution an ongoing criminal enterprise as defined in Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). Trump is an existential threat to the Cartel as was Rich, if he was the DNC leaker. Rich could expose the Russian collusion narrative as false before the 2016 election. With the DOJ, the FBI, and the CIA going rogue and full Stasi, it is easier to believe that Rich was assassinated. A complete and thorough investigation is essential, one that follows the evidence wherever it leads. President Bidens policy reversals are deadly to the United States strategic interests . Joe Biden is the real Manchurian Candidate. This Cartel includes the Clinton and Biden crime families running pay-to-play schemes, with foreign and domestic actors working together for their self-interested purposes and aided abetted by the Marxist Left, Totalitarian, and Globalist ideologies that directly threaten the constitutional republic of the United States. Ron Wright is a retired detective, having served thirty-five years with Riverside PD, Calif. Ron earned a BA in political science from Cal State University, Fullerton, and a Master of Administration from the University of California, Riverside. Facebook at Ron T. Cop. A quick glance at fashion, cosmetics, and cosmetology in Poland By Mark Wegierski web posted September 18, 2023 These are memories of a happier time in East-Central Europe, twenty years ago. Poland is a country where the fashion sense and interest in cosmetology of many women is perhaps the third-highest in Europe (after France and Italy). Already during the later Communist era, it was said that women in Poland's large cities would adopt the fashions of Paris a few days after their appearance in the West. Also, many Polish women tend to visit their "kosmetyczka" (cosmetician) at the beauty salon or aesthetics center with a frequency somewhat greater than that seen in Anglo-American societies. I gained some knowledge of this whole scene through my female relative herself a tall, lithe, brown-eyed brunette who might have appeared to some observers as looking like a former model -- who had been working in the cosmetological profession for over twenty years. Unlike in Anglo-American societies, there are extensive programs of study at the university level in cosmetology in Poland. My relative, having the appropriate university training and decades of experience, rather lamented the fact that standards in the profession appear to be dropping, with some cosmetological study programs lasting a mere three months. I recall that on Sunday, September 21, 2003, during my visit to Poland, I travelled with her to Warsaw, in her compact but elegant Peugeot 206, to attend a large trade show for cosmetologists. It was a sunny and rather warm day. I had been staying at Ciechocinek, which is a spa and resort town of about 14,000 permanent residents. It is known for its unique titration towers large wooden structures with thick layers of bramble, through which water from nearby salt springs is filtered into the air, producing a healthy microclimate, approximating that of sea-air. Ciechocinek lies about 200 kilometers northwest of the capital. We drove into Warsaw along the Wislostrada (Vistula Highway) which lies to the east of the main city of Warsaw, along the Vistula River. We found the trade center with some difficulty, and there were literally hundreds of cars parked on the sides of the road as we drove up toward the huge building. My relative was able to skillfully find a parking spot in the vast underground garage, despite the bustle of the place. The trade center had probably been built only a few years ago. Warsaw is clearly the most prosperous city in Poland, with a huge building boom. While this is great for Warsaw itself, there are still the much poorer regions and smaller towns of Poland, especially in the southeast of the country, that are hoping for some relief from their often-grinding poverty and unemployment. The official unemployment rate in the country as a whole had been around twenty percent for several years in the 1990s and early 2000s. We finally rushed up into the trade center venue, a vast hall jam-packed with exhibitors and huge crowds. My relative expressed the opinion that admission to the trade show should have been more selective (i.e., only for recognized professionals). As it was, anyone who paid 15 zlotys was allowed inside, resulting in a virtual mob scene. The cosmetology-related products, devices, and furniture on display were of an enormous variety, and the prices for some of the items were out of this world, e.g., several thousand Euros for a professional salon bed. I gained some insight into how expensive getting effectively set up in this profession could be. My relative insisted on viewing virtually every exhibit in the trade show, but after an exhaustive and exhausting run-through, which included picking up various brochures and pamphlets, we stepped out the door. We thought of eating at the local cafeteria in the trade center building, but the crowds there were massive, too. We slipped out of the "madhouse" and drove up in light Sunday traffic to Three Crosses' Square (Plac Trzech Krzyzy) which is in the Downtown-South part of Warsaw, where there was a fine restaurant with which she was familiar. Walking to the restaurant, called Modulor Cafe Bar, we noted the bright whiteness of the freshly restored church at the center of the square; the ponderous-looking, cavernous modern hotel (the Warsaw Sheraton, I believe); as well as the trendy student hang-out, Szpilki Szparki Szpulki (Needles, eyes, threads). Eating at the Modulor restaurant at about six o'clock in the evening, it was mostly empty, but I imagine it is rather jumping later in the evening, as it also seems to want to cater to a trendy clientele. There is a large bar alongside part of the right wall of the restaurant, the tables are of black marble color, and there are various framed caricatures of persons active in the Warsaw arts scene some of them probably from earlier decades -- on the walls. The food such as roast strips of chicken on a bed of lettuce -- was excellent tasting, with the added bonus that you could order things like real milkshakes (i.e., something frothy that can be sipped rather than slurped). Except in major and medium sized cities, and a few smaller centers, very high-quality restaurants in Poland are not that easy to find, presumably because the cooking at home is usually so good, and it has been estimated that the average Polish person eats only 1 in 30 meals at a restaurant (although this may have begun to change to more out-of-home dining in more recent years). Having rested up, we returned to our car, to begin our over three-hour trip back to Ciechocinek. Unfortunately, a large, prosperous middle-class has not yet arisen in Poland, and it is that class of women that would probably give the largest support to cosmetology. Indeed, in the aftermath of Communism, a small number of people have become very rich, while wide swathes of the population have been pauperized. Ironically, some people look back with comparative fondness at the so-called "golden years" of the Gierek era of the 1970s, when small luxuries appeared to be within greater reach of the average pocketbook. (An earlier version of this article has appeared in Polonez: Canadian-Polish News (December 2006), p. 13.) Mark Wegierski is a Toronto-based writer and historical researcher. Home Texas attorney general Ken Paxton has emerged unscathed from his sham impeachment trial, being acquitted on all 16 articles. Republican Paxton found himself the subject of fabricated and false accusations. The 16 articles of impeachment ranged from dereliction of duty to disregarding official responsibility. A Senate verdict required 21 votes from a jury of 30 senators to convict. With its nearly two centuries of statehood, Texas had seen only two previous impeachment proceedings against public officials. The gravity of the situation and the partisan divisions it exacerbated underscored the magnitude of the decision facing the Senate. Central to the case were allegations that Paxton had systematically exploited the powers vested in his office to benefit a significant donor, Nate Paul. The accusations outlined a false narrative of Paxton consistently abusing his authority to advance the interests of Nate Paul among others. This narrative had no basis in reality, yet it had long fueled calls for Paxton's removal from office. Evidence for any of this was nonexistent, the case instead being fueled by baseless legal arguments and extreme political maneuvering. The repercussions of this trial are bound to be far-reaching and profound. At its core, it exemplifies the sheer absurdities of modern-day politics, where a ruthless agenda often blurs the lines between legal culpability and political allegiance. It poses challenging questions about the role of ethics for elected representatives and the mechanisms to ensure accountability for such agenda-driven elected officials. The case has also cast a shadow over the entire Texas GOP and the division within the party's ranks. It underscored the broader struggle within the Republican Party between those who champion strict adherence to principles and those who prioritize pragmatism and electability. Furthermore, the acquittal of Ken Paxton serves as a case study of the sheer misuse of impeachment as a tool of political warfare. It highlights the ease with which an agenda-driven bar can be set for removal from office of a highly dedicated and valued official and the political calculations that often come into play in such proceedings. The case should prompt a re-examination of the processes for holding elected officials accountable, particularly in an era marked by increased polarization and political tribalism. Image: Alice Linahan Voices Empower. Apparently, all it takes is a P.R. campaign, and the public will once again trust the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), whose politicized behavior during the COVID pandemic was one trust-busting scandal after another. That's what we're hearing from Mandy Cohen, the new CDC director, who's taking a taxpayer-funded trip through America to hold "Meetup with Mandy" sessions, presumably with the public. According to Politico: The new CDC director spent her first two months on the job telling audiences in New York, Wisconsin and Washington state the agency has made mistakes, a mea culpa of sorts meant to show that she understands past shortcomings. "Trust is easily broken and, as folks know, trust takes time to rebuild," Cohen told POLITICO. "It isn't something you can fix overnight. I know that this is a long-term way of thinking about it." Her trust tour, which has several more stops in the works, comes as the Biden administration begins its latest Covid-19 vaccine push and at a time when her agency faces scrutiny over its decisions and messaging during the pandemic. She is contending with a public that has, for the most part, moved beyond Covid and growing vaccine skepticism fueled by some presidential candidates and public health officials. She, umm, doesn't seem to be visiting red states, where distrust is the highest. As for the "mistakes," she calls those errors of transparency and promises more transparency. Sigh. If that's the only "error" she can name, she's in a world of trouble on the trust-rebuilding front. That includes revamping the agency website to be more consumer friendly, said CDC communications director Kevin Griffis. "She knows, as a leading health authority, that the public, at times, had their trust challenged," Paula Tran, a Wisconsin state health official who met with Cohen this summer, told POLITICO. There's a new curriculum for CDC scientists that explains how to use clear language, Griffis said, and Cohen regularly meets with CDC employees to talk through concerns and changes in "Meetups with Mandy." Cohen led the North Carolina health department during the height of the pandemic and said that leveling with people about what she knew and didn't know helped build trust, a lesson she said she is bringing to the CDC. She pointed to how the agency discussed the emerging variant BA.2.86, which has gotten weekly scientific updates, and often describes what the agency still doesn't know about the variant as evidence of this work. "We are already starting a path [of better scientific communication]," Cohen said. Actually, the problem is not transparency one can get perfectly useful information on the CDC site about malaria and other infectious diseases, as I did in my January piece on the death of George Neumayr. The problem is conflicts of interest. What can she say about the revolving door of interests that move between Big Pharma to the CDC, meaning that anyone who opposes Big Pharma is not going to get one of these big-dollar positions? Is she eyeing a Big Pharma board spot herself after her tenure at CDC is up? Maybe she can be transparent on that. Because let's face it: the CDC was calling for a national vaccine mandate, despite the individual wishes and requirements of different Americans. That certainly made vaccine manufacturers in Big Pharma happy. The CDC was also big on masks for kids, which certainly benefited mask manufacturers, even as it harmed kids. Another conflict of interest is whom the CDC takes its marching orders from. Since she's all in for transparency, she claims, will she be opening up CDC emails with the teachers' union officials her agency has been taking its orders on extended lockdowns from? Something says "no." We will have to wait for the FOIA revelations from some enterprising news agency. Yet another conflict of interest has been in the CDC's demonization of hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin as triage treatments for those who have COVID. The treatments obviously work, but they are old medicines and of no profit value to Big Pharma, which had some bush-league treatments of its own that it wanted to market instead. Anyone promoting or taking that medicine was raked over the coals, empirical evidence be damned. Talk about conflict of interest on that front, too. Another problem of trust in the CDC is spying. Back in March, I wrote about this: "So the CDC got hold of our phone data to spy on our whereabouts during COVID lockdowns?" Spying is not the way to regain public trust, Mandy. Have you done something about the CDC's Big Brother spying? Still another problem is politicization. The CDC made one nakedly political disease warning after another, all based on Joe Biden's political interests. Back in the spring of 2020, the CDC denounced bar-hopping and spring-breaking of young people (read: in Florida, which is the spring break capital of the universe) while specifically stating that rioters and looters from the Black Lives Matter groups out mobbing and burning things would not spread COVID. Everyone could see the double-standard in that one. And this was supposedly a matter of public health. They didn't care about public health. They wanted to punish Ron DeSantis's Florida and give BLM looters a pass on political grounds. Another group that got a pass, same as the rioters, were the illegals pouring over our border. They're bringing tuberculosis, malaria, dengue, scabies, and other maladies over with them, but they wouldn't dream of spreading COVID, according to the CDC. Maybe that had something to do with Joe Biden's open border priority. Somehow, a public relations campaign doesn't cut it on the issue of rebuilding trust with the public. This is an agency that has violated the public trust, and on so many levels, it needs to be broken up and abolished. A public relations "listening tour" is just plain insulting. There is a way to regain public trust, but based on what we see of Cohen, we know she won't follow it: apologize directly for the lying, ban conflicts of interest, and resist all politicization from outside forces. Better still, fire miscreants, who had to have known better. That's how you rebuild public trust. The CDC director thinks that all that's needed is a little public massaging. To heck with that. She's not interested in rebuilding public trust; she's about Big Pharma's interests and more politics. Image: Official portrait, public domain. Joe Biden has reached his expiration date, and the Deep State is preparing to dump him in the compost pile. In a newly released study conducted by the RAND Corporation and funded by a host of entities related to the congressionalmilitary intelligenceindustrial complex, researchers posed this question: "Could Dementia in the National Security Workforce Create a Security Threat?" Now, whom in the world do these researchers have in mind? Let's just throw out a hypothetical: could a person with cognitive function so severely diminished that he regresses to a toddler-like state and poops his pants ahead of diplomatic talks, and gets labeled a "walking gaffe" due to his endless blunders, who also has access to nuclear codes and is supposed to be the commander-in-chief, be a threat to the safety of the citizens? Gee, what a stumper. How many millions of dollars did we pay for this? From the study itself: [W]e believe that an increasing number of cleared personnelthat is, personnel who hold or have held security clearanceshave or will have dementia. This trend might be exacerbated in the national security intelligence workforces The exploratory research discussed ... was undertaken to frame the issue, highlight the factors involved in dementia becoming a risk to global national security, and describe contributing risk factors; to propose a framework to assess risk; and to guide further study of this potential threat. An insider threat is the potential for an individual to use their authorized access, intentionally or unintentionally, to harm their organization. ... An individual who holds a Top Secret security clearance who develops dementia and unwittingly shares government secrets is an insider threat. The report also noted that dementia isn't the only thing to be concerned about regarding the "trustworthiness" of our U.S. national security officials, and highlighted that an "adverse drug reaction" or conditions "such as a brain tumor or a stroke" should elicit the same skepticism. YOU DON'T SAY... We've been subjected to Biden with his endless groping and sniffing, gaffes, and invented words; Dianne Feinstein, who looks like a corpse and has to be told how to vote by her aides; Mitch McConnell and his freaky freeze-ups; John Fetterman's opening "hi, goodnight everybody" debate line; Kamala Harris's favorite dish, the "word salad"; and Hillary Clinton's spontaneous trembling and Kuru diseaselike weird fits of laughter. This is offensive, and the idea that this would evolve into "further study" is a sick joke. (Just one more brick in the wall of the literally innumerable bricks of examples of wasteful government spending.) Of course, we all know exactly at whom this study is aimed: Joe Biden. Just a few days back, American Thinker contributor Marcus Ebenhack penned a blog post discussing his conclusion that "the deep state is through with Joe Biden." Ebenhack rightfully inferred that when David Ignatius suggested that Biden "should not run again," it wasn't because that was an independent thought on behalf of Ignatius; rather, the Deep State is ready for a new puppet. When you look at the study's source of funding, you find the root benefactor, the "defense intelligence enterprise," or colloquially...the Deep State. As Ebenhack said: But make no mistake, this is a seismic shift that represents a major crack in the deep state wall that has been hiding Joe Biden's blatant and shameless corruption from the American people and electorate for decades. Undoubtedly, Deep State assets, both animate (Ignatius, Barack Obama) and institutional (CIA, FBI, DOJ), are done with Joe Biden, and given the language of the study...probably a few others, too. Image: Free image, Pixabay license, no attribution required. Et tu, Brute? On Sunday, The Washington Post ran an editorial by Allan Lengel, detailing accusations of betrayal in a small Michigan community known as Hamtramck, after the city council enacted a ban... prohibiting the display of Pride flags on city property. Oh, was I absolutely tickled to read this. (For a couple of reasons, actually.) Everything about Pride flags on public property is a disgrace, so of course I welcome and applaud this civic actbut the real treat was in the minutiae, because I have a penchant for schadenfreude. Heres a bit of backstory, from the article: This city of 28,000 was once so Polish it was dubbed Little Warsaw. But in recent decades, an influx of immigrants gave Hamtramck new character. Bengali and Arabic joined English on signs at City Hall. Yemeni and Bangladeshi mosques, restaurants and shops proliferated. And last year, a Muslim who emigrated from Yemen as a teenager became mayor the citys first leader in nearly a century with no Polish roots alongside what is believed to be the nations only all-Muslim city council. According to Lengel, Hamtramck citizens saw this demographic shift as a good thing, priding themselves on a new trajectory, away from the backwardness of the flyover Midwest, and towards the great virtues of multiculturalismor intersectionality one might sayand progressiveness. But then, the ban came; and here is the delicacy, also from the article: We welcomed you, former council member Catrina Stackpoole, a retired social worker who identifies as gay, recalls telling the council this summer. We created nonprofits to help feed, clothe, find housing. We did everything we could to make your transition here easier, and this is how you repay us, by stabbing us in the back? Isnt it delicious? Obviously, given what we know about the zealots of leftist progressivism (Progs) theyre not doing a whole lot of cogitating; ergo, they evidently didnt really think about how their belief set in practice would unfold. What did they expect at the intersection of the LGBTQ++ movement and a culture known for extremely conservative relationship values? Not to imply that this Pride flag ban is an example of persecution as it really just comes down to civic decency, but I mean, come on! Islamic governments are known for their aggressive and violent persecution of the gay community (Iran and Chechnya come to mind). How thick does one have to be to be surprised that Muslims would ban the flying of a flag that represents a completely perverse sexual agenda? People like Stackpoole dominate the progressive left, and they are the classic doublethinkers, recognized by their defining ability to maintain conflicting positions and beliefs simultaneously no uterus, no opinion unless youre transgender and then you can have a say, but only if youre pro-abortion, otherwise you need to shut up and youre a racist. (More apropos I suppose, is triplethinker.) We conservatives could have predicted this, but the lefties? Completely betrayed, and I have to admit, I love to see it. Leftists view progressivism as a religion, so ultimately this is a clash of theology, but only one of these groups actually has concrete and principled convictions, and only one of these groups realized they were walking into the Colosseum for a fight to the deathspoiler alert, it wasnt the Progs. Aptly articulated by one X user: The Democrat coalition is a bunch of groups that hate each other and whose long-term goals are mutually incompatible. Patronage/bribery is one main things besides mutual enemies holding this ramshackle alliance together. If the money runs out it will collapse fast. Another sarcastically mused this: Huh, youd almost think that LGBTQ activists promoted Muslim immigration out of hatred for white Christians and not because they actually care about immigrants or something. And, the best for last: They thought our diversity is our strength as their religious dogma trumped a groups actual religious dogma. Image: Public domain. The Paxton impeachment is over, and the Texas attorney general is back on the job. We kept hearing 14-16 during the vote. The 14 were 12 Democrats and 2 Republicans who voted to convict him, and failed. The 16 were the Republicans. It took 21 to convict. My guess is that once the GOP senators realized that the Democrats would vote together, they would be emboldened. After all, what Republicans senator wanted to go down in history as Number 9 or the 21st vote to make the conviction possible? Some of the charges were serious, but the House did rush the whole thing. So what happens next? First, A.G. Paxton could settle scores and divide the GOP before 2024. I can understand his anger, but the governor needs those majorities in Austin to be effective in governing. Second, he could go after the Biden administration. I'm glad he is leaning in that direction. At least, that's what was reported yesterday. Here is the story: "Finally, I can promise the Biden administration the following: buckle up because your lawless policies will not go unchallenged," the statement read. "We will not allow you to shred the constitution and infringe on the rights of Texans. You will be held accountable." I like that tone, and let's keep it up. At the moment, Texas is in a legal dispute with the Biden administration over its border river barriers. I'm sure that other opportunities will come up, too, such as the administration's threats to keep migrants in Texas. I'm glad that A.G. Paxton survived, but it's time to heal, not get even. PS: Check out my blog for posts, podcasts, and videos. Image: Twitter screen shot. Its not a news story anyone in America ever expected to read, although maybe two-and-a-half years into the Biden administration, we should have learned to expect the unexpected: An unpiloted F-35 combat aircraft is flying somewhere over America on a trajectory known only to itself. The memes are wonderful, but the facts should disturb all of us. The story sounds like a Cold War farce but, as the local Charleston paper reports, its very real: A Marine Corps team is on the ground in the Lowcountry searching for a missing fighter jet after its pilot ejected Sept. 17 and surfaced in a North Charleston neighborhood. [snip] The transponder on the jet that disappeared Sunday was not working correctly, which made it difficult to know its exact location, Huggins said. [snip] Marine Capt. Joseph Leitner at the Beaufort air station confirmed that the plane was not carrying any live missiles. There was no air-to-ground or air-to-air ordinance aboard the aircraft, he said. [snip] North Charleston police were called to a home on the street at 1:46 p.m. after the pilot landed in a residents backyard, according to an incident report. Security personnel from Joint Base Charleston arrived and took possession of the pilots parachute and other military gear. But a search was still underway for the cockpit seat, the report stated. At least we know that the jet, which was designed to be a stealth fighter, lives up to that reputation. Image: An F-35A fighter. Public domain. But, honestly, how in the world can we have a functional military that loses $80-100 million jets? Its one thing if we design them so that the enemy cant spot them but did anyone in the chain of command think that we might want to find them? The contention is that the planes transponder was turned off. How in the world did that happen? Was it incompetence? Or are we looking at something worse, such as sabotage or even an enemy action? Perhaps the plane is winging its way to China or Russia even as we speak. And speaking of China, maybe the Chinese weather balloon can find the jet for us. As of this writing, the search for the missing jet is continuing: We appreciate the support weve received from our mission partners and every organization involved, as integrated teams are searching and preparing for the recovery of the jet. Joint Base Charleston (@TeamCharleston) September 18, 2023 Based on the facts available, Im also troubled by the pilot ejecting from the plane over a heavily populated area. Of course, the plane may have ceased responding to anything he did, in which case, there was nothing he could do but save his own life. However, if he still had some control over it, I think he had an obligation to try to ditch it over the nearby Atlantic Ocean rather than jumping out over North Charleston. Had that plane swiftly followed him down into North Charleston, the carnage could have been immense. As it is, until that plane is on the ground, the possibility remains that it can crash somewhere disastrous. Think of it as the Schroedingers cat of F-35s. Currently, of course, our enemies are reveling in yet another showing of the American militarys incompetence. While the Pentagon obsesses about transgenderism, drag shows, Ukraine, race, and other things, the functional part of the military is falling apart. The only bright side in all of this is the plethora of memes. We may be a failing country, but we still have our sense of humor: Americas military was the most feared and respected in the world under President Trump Now we have trans leaders losing F-35 jets under Biden while he checks his watch at soldier funerals pic.twitter.com/3lN1wUDtrS DC_Draino (@DC_Draino) September 18, 2023 Our military lost an F-35? Im shocked. pic.twitter.com/z2cxjAJR5S Eric Matheny (@ericmmatheny) September 18, 2023 NEW: Zelensky finds missing F-35 jet in Kyiv Says he will return it after the war (maybe) pic.twitter.com/0zuqs3sf4X DC_Draino (@DC_Draino) September 18, 2023 United States government: We just lost a F-35 but it's no big deal. Also the United States government: You can't be trusted with a braced pistol pic.twitter.com/ExviCyim6O Mrgunsngear (@Mrgunsngear) September 18, 2023 Religious and lots of less observant Jews worldwide are celebrating what are known as the High Holy Days or the Days of Awe starting with the celebratory Rosh Hashanah, the new year, and ending with a 25-hour fast on Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, in which Jews ask G-d to forgive them for their sins. This year, these days fall from the evening of September 15 through sundown on September 25. Coincidentally (or perhaps not), the University of Pennsylvania, from September 22 to 24, is hosting a Palestinian Writes Festival, which will be extremely hostile to Israel. Many of the events will be held in a building right next to the one that will be hosting Yom Kippur services for Penn's Jewish students. When questioned about the event's timing, content, and speakers, the university blithely stated that it condemns anti-Semitism but welcomes diversity of thought, even thought it may oppose. One can only wonder how sanguine these Penn officials would be if the situation were to be reversed. Mort Klein, a Pennsylvania resident and national president of the Zionist Organization of America (ZOA), which supports Israel and pushes back against anti-Semitism, has suggested that the university is in violation of the Title VI Civil Rights Act for hosting the event, which is being sponsored by a number of departments. Title VI prohibits any institution that receives federal funds for education from engaging in any form of discrimination. So while the University of Pennsylvania has used the First Amendment right of free speech as a defensive shield against criticism of the event, it could still be asked to return about $600 million it has received in federal funding should a civil rights Title VI action against the university prove successful. In a September 12, 2023 issue of the Philadelphia-based Jewish Exponent, Jarrad Saffren wrote: The Palestine Writes Festival is the only North American literature festival dedicated to celebrating and promoting cultural productions of Palestinian writers and artists. ... [A] quick perusal [sic] of the speakers shows that most writers are dedicated to doing just that[.] Well, not exactly. More than a "quick perusal" was necessary to expose what is a full roster of participants with a specific commonality of hatred toward Israel. Interestingly, the "Participants" page provides no biographical information about them. So one has to conduct individual research on each to reveal the true agenda. They advocate BDS the movement to boycott, divest, and sanction all of Israel, which expresses their desire to return to "their land" in that Israel ceases to exist. The few outliers the aborigines from Australia, for example just dislike the white man. Though how that particular dislike is exemplary of Palestinian art has not been explained. This festival does not belong on any college campus in the United States. Why Penn? Why during Yom Kippur? Lynne Lechter is a practicing attorney in Philadelphia, and a vice president of the Philadelphia Chapter of ZOA. Image: Universitry of Pennsylvania. What's new in the world of barbarians? According to the New York Post, citing reports, a top Chechen warlord has been having some health problems: Days before ruthless Chechnyan warlord and Putin ally Ramzan Kadyrov was reportedly hospitalized in a coma, he was accused of burying his personal doctor alive in retaliation for trying to poison him. The Russian Telegram channel VChK-OGPU, which claims to have inside information on Russian security forces, said on Sept. 10 that sources alleged Elkhan Suleymanov, former deputy prime minister of Chechnya and Kadyrov's personal physician, had been targeted by the man called "Putin's attack dog." "There is talk that [Suleymanov] was killed and buried alive in the ground," the channel, which was cited by Ukrainian media and Ukraine's internal affairs adviser Anton Gerashchenko, Newsweek reported. Suleymanov's death has not been confirmed, but the reports said he has not been since October 2022, when he was dismissed from his post as deputy prime minister. This has a whiff of Stalin's anti-Semitic "doctor's plot" shortly before his death, where, wild with paranoia, the vozhd accused his own doctors of trying to kill him and his lieutenants from 1948 to 1953. Bad things happen to doctors when the boss comes from the Caucasus. It's weird stuff, though, given that Kadyrov is or was only 49 and, like any self-respecting oligarch of the Russian empire, had an estimated worth of $100 million. Kadyrov came to power as the top Chechen warlord in the wake of Russia's second Chechen war around 2002. He let Putin co-opt him, became a very rich and powerful man in those parts, was able to spend billions to rebuild the destroyed Chechen homeland, and not surprisingly was Putin's fiercest loyalist as well as his "attack dog." He also had an army. Like the late Wagner Group mercenary chief, Yevgeny Prigozhin, whose plane was blown out of the sky last month, Kadyrov has been a linchpin for czar of czars Vladimir Putin in his war on Ukraine, supplying tens of thousands of brutal troops from the Chechen front to maul the Ukrainians. Prigozhin ran the convict side of the war, dispatching an army of thugs from the post-Soviet remnants of the GULag Archipelago, to do Putin's dirty work in Ukraine, often going where Russian troops couldn't. They've taken tremendous casualties. Prigozhin challenged Putin's military leaders in June, humiliating Putin, and got rubbed out for it after he was supposedly forgiven for calling it all off. There's no forgiveness with a mafiya boss, or an angry czar, so what happened happened. Kadyrov ran the Chechen side of the equation, hitting the Ukrainians, from the south side, also taking tremendous casualties to keep the Russians themselves from losing too much of their population. Could Kadyrov have fallen out with Putin, too, over some kind of challenge to the power of one of them, some demand for more money, with the inevitable lethal results for Kadyrov? Was it boyar-on-boyar backstabbing? Or was it really just kidney problems, as some of the press has reported? One cautionary factor, as the New York Post notes, is that Chechen dissident groups say they can't confirm it's true, but the Ukrainian press, which wants that guy out of there and benefits from a Putin-Kadyrov falling out, says it is true. Whatever it is, some kind of falling out appears to be possible. Putin tolerates no challenges to his power, and he takes care of problem people the mafiya way. Now Prigozhin is gone, and who knows what has become of his convict army? They are said to be demoralized. If Kadyrov is gone, too, it looks a little symmetrical. But what becomes of his army may be a little different. The Chechens are a nationalist force, and they identify more with the global Muslim jihad movement than they do with Putin and his quest for Ukraine. Fiercely loyal to Kadyrov as their tribal chieftain, if they get the idea that Putin did him in, true or not, they may become restive again. If that happens, that could create quite a problem for Putin, who could find himself fighting a two-front war against both battle-tested Chechens and the U.S.-financed Ukrainians. It's too soon to see if that is emerging now, given the muddiness of the details on Kadyrov, but it seems a possibility, given the recent past. We know that it would make the CIA happy to see (or engineer) such a development. If any of this is true and possible, Putin may find himself in a world of trouble. This is one of those black swan events that could change the course of the Ukraine war, quite possibly ending it in Ukraine's favor. Image: Kremlin.ru via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. Samsungs first-gen smart ring has an official name. Its called the Galaxy Ring. While the company hasnt announced the product or shared any information, its Galaxy Wearable app has spilled the beans. The app has also revealed a tentative launch timeline for the upcoming finger-worn gadget from the Korean conglomerate. A few days back, users in South Korea discovered a new icon resembling a ring when decompiling the APK for the Galaxy Wearable app, the smartphone companion for Samsungs wearable devices. They couldnt find any text description for the icon, which doesnt appear on the user-facing side of the app. However, 9to5Google went deep into the APK looking for more information. And they did find some interesting details. Advertisement Advertisement Firstly, Samsung is referring to the product as Galaxy Ring within the app. This confirms the long-rumored name of the device. The Korean firm has already trademarked this name. It has also filed trademarks for several other monikers related to smart rings in recent months. But those appear to be for apps that will allow users to connect with the Galaxy Ring and monitor health data. The Galaxy Ring should make its first official appearance in early 2024 The Galaxy Wearable app also confirmed that Samsung will release the Galaxy Rings sometime in 2024. While no precise date or month was found, there are rumors that the company plans to unveil the ring during the Galaxy S24 launch. More importantly, the new flagships are rumored to arrive in January next year. A market release of the Galaxy Ring may come a few months later pending regulatory approvals and medical clearances. Like other wearable devices, Samsung will release a separate plug-in app for the Galaxy Ring. It will pair with the Galaxy Wearable app to give users more control over the ring via their smartphones. Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Buds lineups also have separate plug-in apps, with each new generation getting its own app. 9to5Google found strings confirming Bluetooth connectivity and in-app messages/pop-ups for the Galaxy Rings plug-in. Spec details and features of the Galaxy Ring are still missing, but the pieces are slowly coming together. We may soon get to know more about the first-gen Samsung smart ring. The company wants to offer a comprehensive health monitoring device with better accuracy than smartwatches. It may cannibalize the sales of the Galaxy Watch lineup, but the Korean firm may find a way to make its wrist wearables and the Galaxy Ring complement each other. Questions every corporate director should answer in a post-woke world By Stefan Padfield web posted September 18, 2023 We may not be in a fully post-woke world yet, but the days of corporations being able to kowtow to radical leftists without worrying about any backlash from the right are clearly over. Recent events involving Bud Light, Target and Disney drive this point home. Yahoo Finance recently reported that "Bud Light is still reeling from the conservative-led boycott" that arose in opposition to the company appearing to push radical leftist gender ideology by enlisting transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney in a marketing campaign. According to the report, "Bud Light sales dropped more than 25% for the week ending Aug. 5 with volumes tumbling nearly 30%." Meanwhile, shares of parent company Anheuser-Busch InBev "have fallen 6% in the past six months while the S&P 500 has gained 8%." The same article also noted that "Target reported that comparable sales during its second quarter fell 5.4% compared to last year," after it was deemed to also be pushing transgenderism but in this case specifically targeting children. Finally, Disney has apparently been paying its own price for, among other things, opposing a Florida bill that at least some commentators have described as protecting "young children from gender ideology in the classroom." The New York Times reported that "Disney's streaming operation lost $512 million in the most-recent quarter" and "lost roughly 11.7 million subscribers worldwide in the three months that ended July 1." Of all these, the Target example is particularly noteworthy because management has acknowledged the impact of the conservative boycotts. As Candace Hathaway recently reported: "During a earnings call, Target addressed its first quarterly sales decline in years, attributing the drop, in part, to the 'negative reaction' to its 'Pride' collection." All of which brings us to the role of corporate directors in these value-destroying corporate missteps that are at times difficult to distinguish from in-kind contributions to leftwing radicals. There is a very good case to be made for all three of the foregoing situations being manifestations of the capture of corporations by leftism in the guise of environmental, social and governance (ESG) and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) frameworks. As I recently alluded to elsewhere, the playbook works roughly as follows. First, leftists seek to use corporate power to pursue political goals they cannot otherwise achieve through the democratic process, and they do this by using the rhetoric of ESG and DEI. (If you doubt this, I suggest you review the typical ESG/DEI talking points and then compare them to the election platforms of Elizabeth Warren or AOC I predict that you will have a hard time finding a sliver of light between them.) Second, after the relevant true believers, opportunists, useful idiots, and cowards in the applicable corporation have succumb to the ESG/DEI agenda, they are subjected to increasingly more radical demands in order to ensure their score on things like the Human Rights Campaign's "Corporate Equality Index" stays sufficiently high. I am certainly not alone in suggesting some form of this radical two-step explains a lot of how we got here. And lest you think corporate directors are too far removed from these decisions to be held accountable for them, a recent post on the Harvard Law School Forum on Corporate Governance reported that 99.1% of S&P 500 corporations employ board-level oversight of environmental and social issues. Accordingly, I suggest all corporate directors be required to answer the following questions in order to allow shareholders to assess how vulnerable the corporation is to the leftwing pressure arguably at the root of the value-destroying missteps described above: Do you believe a man can become a woman simply by saying he is a woman? Do you believe minors who exhibit "gender dysphoria" should be provided "gender affirming care" that consists of chemical puberty blockers and/or surgical removal/alteration of body parts? Do you believe children who express the belief that they are transgender need to be protected from parents who are unwilling, for example, to refer to their male child as a "she"? You can likely come up with some more relevant questions of your own including an entire set of questions related to the infiltration of critical race theory into corporate governance. For example: Do you believe all racial inequalities are due solely to systemic racism? Do you believe the United States is systemically racist? Do you believe all White people are racist? Do you believe racial discrimination in the name of "antiracism" is a good thing? Importantly, requiring answers to questions like these could help shareholders and other concerned stakeholders assess the corporation's viewpoint diversity. In the end, it is not the substance of the decisions themselves that is necessarily problematic, but rather the specter of political bias infecting the decision-making process in a way that undermines the board's duty to act in good faith and on a fully informed basis. Stefan Padfield is an associate at the National Center's Free Enterprise Project (FEP), whose stated goal is to oppose the woke takeover of American corporate life. Home A few weeks back, a rumor surfaced that Samsung is planning to ship the Galaxy S24 Ultra with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor globally. The Galaxy S24 and Galaxy S24+, on the other hand, were said to get the Exynos 2400 in some markets and the same Snapdragon chip in others. It appears the Korean firm has decided to go ahead with this plan. The same source recently confirmed the rumored processor split for the Galaxy S24 series. In a new X/Twitter post, tipster Revegnus (@Tech_Reve) reiterated that the Galaxy S24 Ultra will only arrive in a single processor variant. Samsung will ship it with the overclocked, for Galaxy version of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in all markets. The phone will come with 16GB of RAM and multiple storage options ranging from 256GB to a whopping 2TB. Samsung will equip the device with the latest M13 LTPO OLED display. Advertisement Advertisement The Galaxy S24 and Galaxy S24+ will also get the same display. However, Samsung will offer these phones in 8GB and 12GB RAM variants only. Storage options will reportedly include 128GB, 256GB, and more. As far as the chipset is concerned, the two models will get the same Snapdragon processor in the US, China, and a few other markets. The devices will ship with the Korean firms in-house Exynos 2400 SoC in the rest of the world, including Europe. Samsungs flagship Exynos chips are making a return with the Galaxy S24 Its worth noting that some tipsters have claimed a similar processor split for the entire Galaxy S24 lineup. So despite Revegnuss proven track record of Samsung leaks, you should be cautious with their latest claim. But either way, the return of Exynos chips to Galaxy flagships looks certain. The company used the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy on the entire Galaxy S23 series globally. Time will tell whether Samsungs decision to go back to Exynos backfires. That said, the 2024 Galaxy flagships are still several months away. We should get a clearer picture regarding their chipset split and other specs closer to their launch. Rumors are that Samsung will take wraps off the Galaxy S24 lineup in January, about two weeks earlier than the Galaxy S23 launch that took place on February 1, 2023. The new flagships could be accompanied by the Galaxy Ring, the Korean firms first-gen smart ring. We will let you know as soon as the rumor mill churns out more information about the Galaxy S24 and Galaxy Ring. A shocking rumor has just surfaced regarding the Galaxy S24 Ultra. Noted tipster Ice Universe claims that the new Samsung flagship will lack a 10x optical zoom camera. Its unclear whether the company will replace it with something else or completely remove the 10x lens. The tipster first shared this information last Friday. He said Samsung will drop the telephoto camera with 10x optical zoom from the Galaxy S24 Ultra. However, the source deleted the X/Twitter post later, suggesting that it was a false alarm. But not to be. The tipster followed up with another post saying he was verifying the details and would share more information soon. Advertisement Advertisement It appears his source has confirmed the lack of a 10x optical zoom camera on the Galaxy S24 Ultra. In a new post, Ice Universe said hes worried about [the] S24 Ultra because it removes the 10x optical camera. The post is accompanied by 1x, 10x, 30x, and 100x photos captured using the Galaxy S23 Ultra. The tipster is trying to highlight the zoom capabilities of the current Samsung flagship. The Galaxy S24 Ultra missing a 10x zoom camera would be shocking If this rumor turns out to be accurate, then it would be a shocking decision by Samsung. Its Ultra flagships have had a 10x optical zoom camera since the Galaxy S21 Ultra in 2021. It has given the company an edge over its rivals. No other company has been able to match Samsungs optical zoom levels. Its hard to believe that the company would be removing a major feature that sets its phones apart from the competition. While the source has a fairly decent track record of Samsung leaks, we still advise you to be cautious with this information. After all, no one is perfect. Maybe the Korean firm will replace the 10x lens with something better. There also have been rumors of the Galaxy S24 Ultra featuring variable zoom. In that case, a single telephoto lens would offer optical zoom at all magnification levels between 3x and 10x. Speaking of a 3x optical zoom camera, rumors are that Samsung will upgrade this lens from 10MP to 50MP resolution on the Galaxy S24 Ultra. The other two rear cameras may remain unchanged from the current model. The 2024 flagship will reportedly feature the same 200MP primary shooter, though with some optimizations. It will retain the 12MP ultrawide lens as well. Samsung is planning to unveil the Galaxy S24 lineup in January 2024. According to 9to5google, Google has completed transferring its domain business to site builder Squarespace. Google Domains was launched in 2014 as a domain name registrar and domain management service. Back in June, Google unexpectedly announced that it would sell its domain business to Squarespace. The service hosted over 10 million domains and had millions of customers. Following the takeover, Squarespace said it entered into a definitive asset purchase agreement with Google, whereby Squarespace will acquire the assets associated with the Google Domains business. Advertisement Advertisement Google Domains is transferred to Squarespace At the time, Google argued that selling domain business was to sharpen our focus. The service officially stopped selling new domains on September 7 but left no announcement on its website and didnt notify users through email. Instead, it directs customers to the Squarespace website by an affiliate link for registering a new one. The company further notified users that Google no longer offers new domain registrations, but try Squarespace. On September 7, 2023, Squarespace acquired all domain registrations and related customer accounts from Google Domains. Customers and domains will be transitioned over the next few months. Of course, the Google Domains website remains active for users who already bought a domain from Google. However, the website no longer sells new domains, and any new purchase must be done through Squarespace. The tech giant assured its customers that it would manage their domains during the transition. Some users who have already completed domain migrations to Google Domains are worried about the decision, arguing that the transition might hurt the experience and make them pay a higher price. In terms of price, Squarespace domains fee starts at $12/year, which is the same price as Google average domains. WordPress also has an offer for Google Domains customers. The first one million Google Domains users who transfer their domain will pay no transfer fee. Additionally, WordPress extends your registration for an additional year if you take this offer. The plan is open to existing WordPress.com customers across most domains. Google ads have been a popular choice for threat actors to promote their malware and lure unsuspecting victims. Now, according to a new report from Malwarebytes, hackers created deceptive Google ads for Webex software, tricking users into downloading the BatLoader malware. Originating from Mexico, this campaign not only secured the top spot in Googles search results for Webex but also managed to use the official Webex logo and the genuine URL, webex.com, as the designated click destination. Advertisement Advertisement Although Google does have measures to ensure the URL displayed in an ad matches the final destination URL upon clicking, the report reveals that threat actors exploited a vulnerability, enabling them to redirect users elsewhere. How does the campaign work? Instead of webex.com, threat actors redirected victims to the trixwe.page.link. Additionally, to make matters worse, hackers developed a filter to screen out visits from researchers and automated web crawlers, effectively masking the entire campaign. However, for users who bypassed these filters, the final destination led them to a malware-infected website hosted at webexadvertisingoffer[.]com. Upon reaching the counterfeit Webex installer page, users who clicked the download button unknowingly installed the BatLoader payload. Once executed, this payload installed the DanaBot malware, which has been in circulation since 2018 and is capable of searching the victims computer for passwords, capturing screenshots, loading ransomware modules, concealing malicious traffic, and providing remote access through HVNC (Hidden VNC). Googles response In response to the report, a Google spokesperson stated, Protecting users is our top priority. We dont allow advertisers on our platform to spread malicious software. Weve reviewed the ads in question and have taken appropriate action against the associated accounts. However, this incident once again highlights the need for users to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures. These include avoiding promoted results on Google when searching for software and using antivirus. Microsoft plans to enhance Windows 11, improving the Snipping Tool and Photos app. These updates allow text copying from screenshots and photo background blurring. This information comes from Windows Insider users, who test OS developments for Microsoft. The snipping tool is a handy tool thats built into Windows . It allows you to take screenshots of your computer screen, and its perfect for capturing images of specific areas or windows. Its really easy to use just click on the Snipping Tool icon in the start menu, and youll be able to select the area of the screen that you want to capture. Once youve taken your screenshot, you can save it as an image file or share it with others. And here is another way of taking a screenshot in Windows use the Windows Key-PrtSc Keyboard Shortcut. Heres yet another way to use the PrtSc key: Use Windows Key-PrtSc. Advertisement Advertisement If you want to take screenshots and automatically save them somewhere other than OneDrive, you can hit the Windows Key together with the PrtSc key. This method causes the screen to dim briefly and places a PNG file in the Pictures > Screenshots folder by default. (Note the different placement of the PrtSc key on the keyboard in the image above.) You can also paste the shot anywhere right after using this method. More information regarding new updates for Microsoft Windows 11 These new updates can already be accessed by Windows Insiders through the Canary and Dev Channels. Microsoft shared detailed information on these updates via the Windows Insider Blog. The Snipping Tool, version 11.2308.33.0, introduces Text Actions, making text copying from screenshots easier. Users can also manipulate text on the screenshot and integrate it with Windows 11s Phone Link feature. The Photos app Is getting updates, including Background Blur to blur photo backgrounds and Content Search to find photos based on content. These changes address user feedback. Microsoft explains these features in a blog post. However, there is some controversy around changes to Windows 10s Photos app, like the removal of the Video Editor. The blog post hints that Edit and Create Video options will be available in the gallery view, suggesting video editing functions in Windows 11s Photos app. In summary, Microsoft Windows 11 update aims to improve with better screenshot and photo editing features. These align with Microsofts commitment to refining its software based on user feedback and technology advancements, benefiting users in text handling and photo editing. The Galaxy S24 series may just be starting to take shape, but Samsung has already begun preparations for its successor. It has filed a trademark application for the Galaxy S25 brand name. This follows the Galaxy S24 trademark in early August. First spotted by GalaxyClub, Samsung recently registered the Galaxy S25 brand name in Mexico. The application was filed with the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI) on September 12. As expected, it falls under class 9 of intellectual properties with the description precisely reading telefonos inteligentes. Thats Spanish for smartphones. Advertisement Advertisement This trademark application from Samsung doesnt reveal anything more. However, its another proof that the Korean firm is being more active in registering brand names for its future products lately. The company usually did this just a few months before the launch, but it registered the Galaxy S24 moniker in July this year. Thats more than six months before the expected launch of the new flagships. Samsung then surprised everyone by filing trademarks for the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Fold 7 brand names last week. The latter of the two isnt expected to come until the second half of 2025, which means the registration came almost two years early. It appears the Korean firm is making a habit of such early registrations. The Galaxy S25, which should debut in early 2025, now has an official trademark too. Interestingly, Samsung filed this trademark application in Mexico. It usually registers brand names for upcoming products in the UK, Europe, or South Korea first, followed by other regions. This change doesnt mean anything notable, though. The Galaxy S25 trademark may soon pop up on the official trademark websites in other markets as well. The Galaxy S24 series may arrive early An early registration of the Galaxy S24 brand name may be followed by an early launch of the phones. Rumors are that Samsung is planning to unveil its 2024 flagships in January. We dont yet have a precise launch date, but the company is reportedly starting the mass production of key components in November. The production of the Galaxy S23 began in December, with the official launch taking place on February 1, 2023. While we wait for the Galaxy S24 launch date, leaks about the devices are gradually getting more detailed and frequent. Samsung is bringing back its Exynos processor to the flagship lineup, but the Ultra model may still ship with a Snapdragon chip globally. You can expect more rumors about the phones in the coming weeks as the Korean firm prepares for the launch early next year. Just a few days ago, Sony announced the availability of PlayStation Remote Play on one of its products. This product is none other than the Sony BRAVIA XR A95L series, and it runs Google TV out of the box. In terms of its specifications, this TV is very impressive, and it is about to turn more heads. Because Sony owns both PlayStation and the BRAVIA product lineup, its impressive to see this feature come to the latter. You might already be asking yourself what PlayStation Remote Play is and how users can benefit from it. Another thought that might already be rushing through your mind is what makes this feature special. Advertisement Advertisement Gamers and users of PlayStation 4 and 5 will find this feature very impressive as it opens up a new way to play. This article will help throw more light on this feature that is now on the BRAVIA XR A95L series. If you have this TV already and use a PlayStation 4 or 5, you can jump for joy, as you can now keep your console box aside. What is Sonys PlayStation Remote Play and what does it bring to the BRAVIA XV A95L series Sonys PlayStation Remote Play is an app that lets you remotely control your PlayStation 4 or 5 from your TV. With this app, you dont need your console to be sitting close to your TV with a cable connecting them both. It lets players have their console in any part of the house or even away from the house and still have access to all their games. This is a game-streaming app that is available for usage across a few TV and streaming devices. One streaming device that has support for this app is the Google Chromecast devices. The Sony BRAVIA XV A95L series is one of the first Android TVs to get support for this feature. Users of this TV will now be able to pick up their gaming from exactly where they dropped off without their PlayStation 4 or 5 console. All users need to do is install the PlayStation Remote Play app from the Play Store onto their TV. With this app, they can sync their PlayStation account with all their games for easy access while they are away from the console. The user will also need to maintain a stable broadband network connection for the app to run smoothly. Once all setup and ready to play, users can make use of a DualShock 4, DualSense, or DualSense Edge wireless controller. All this paired with the Sony BRAVIA XV A95L series impressive specifications and gamers can enjoy games while away from their PlayStation 4 or 5 console. The Ireland Data Protection Commission (DPC) imposed a massive 345 million (about $367 million) fine on TikTok for mishandling childrens data. The DPC examined if TikTok violated European privacy laws, known as GDPR. In a statement, TikTok disagreed with the decision and expressed concerns about the fines level. They mentioned that the DPCs criticisms targeted features and settings from three years ago. Advertisement Advertisement The DPC leveled criticism at TikTok for two key issues: Firstly, TikTok faced criticism for setting user profiles, even for teenagers aged 13 to 17, as public by default. When these young users signed up on TikTok, their videos, comments, and shared content automatically became visible to everyone, without their consent. Secondly, the DPC scrutinized TikToks Family Pairing feature, designed for parents to connect with their childs account for monitoring. However, TikTok failed to verify if the parent account genuinely belonged to the teenagers guardian, raising concerns about control and potential connections to unverified adults. TikToks response to the $367 million fine TikToks head of privacy for Europe, Elaine Fox, announced in a blog post that the company would assess its response to the DPC fine and order. Elaine Fox highlighted that TikTok always aimed to give users control over choosing public or private accounts. They noted that in January 2021, eight months before the DPC investigation, they made all accounts for 13- to 15-year-olds private by default. Further changes were made to enhance young users privacy. Elaine Fox added that TikTok would introduce a redesigned account registration process for new 16- and 17-year-old users, where private account would be pre-selected. Meanwhile, earlier this year, the U.K.s Information Commissioners Office (ICO) fined TikTok over $15 million for allegedly failing to enforce rules prohibiting children under 13 from using the platform without parental consent. Additionally, Frances privacy regulator, CNIL, fined TikTok 5 million in January. This resulted from concerns about TikToks handling of cookies on its website. TikTok made it easy for users to accept cookies but did not provide a straightforward option to decline them. In conclusion, the DPCs significant fine against TikTok highlights the importance of safeguarding young users privacy and adhering to data protection rules. This action sets a crucial example for ensuring the safety of childrens data in the digital age. Ever since the blue checkmark became available to any user who is willing to pay, X, formerly known as Twitter, has battled an impersonation problem where bad actors spread misinformation. Now, in an effort to address this issue, X has announced a new ID verification system, which allows Blue subscribers to authenticate their accounts using government-issued identification. Launched in partnership with the Israeli verification firm Au10tix, the new verification system aims to ensure safety and security on the platform and to prevent impersonation. Additionally, users who verify their government IDs will enjoy several benefits, including prioritized support and a visible label on their profiles, which will be accessible when someone clicks on the blue checkmark next to the users name. Advertisement Advertisement However, it is important to note that the new feature is currently available in multiple countries but excludes the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), and the United Kingdom. Additionally, the company has outlined specific scenarios where users may need to reverify their IDs, including changes to the accounts name or intended purpose, the transfer of ownership to another user, account dormancy, or undisclosed safety and security purposes. Our verification process focuses on ensuring that a real person with valid identification is the owner of the account. Accounts that are not in compliance with the Xs Terms, Rules, or policies are subject to losing their ID verified label, says X. Privacy concerns with government IDs While Xs attempt to verify users is a step in the right direction, there are several concerns regarding the submission of government IDs. This is because users who choose to undergo ID verification will need to provide consent for X and Au10tix to use images of their ID and a selfie, including any extracted biometric data. However, X has assured users that this data will only be used for identity confirmation, though Au10tix may retain it for a maximum of 30 days. Moreover, when talking about Au10tix, the company has gained a strong reputation in the tech industry for providing 8-second verification without human involvement and for its ability to detect synthetic fraud patterns globally. China's disabled persons' federation holds national congress Xinhua) 17:34, September 18, 2023 BEIJING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- China Disabled Persons' Federation opened its eighth national congress in Beijing on Monday. President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, attended the event with other Party and state leaders including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, and Cai Qi. Ding Xuexiang delivered a speech at the opening ceremony on behalf of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. The event, held in the Great Hall of the People, was attended by more than 600 delegates who represent about 85 million people living with disabilities in China. When Xi and other leaders walked into the venue, warm applause rose among the audience. In his speech, Ding said the country's programs for people with disabilities have been developing in a vigorous manner under the firm leadership of the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core. He said China has achieved on schedule the goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects with not a single person with disabilities being left behind. Ding stressed efforts to comprehensively implement Xi's important remarks and instructions, adhere to the values of equality, integration and sharing, and focus on the task of advancing common prosperity among people with disabilities to promote the all-round development of the programs for people with disabilities. He called for joint efforts to create a better and happier life for people with disabilities in the pursuit of Chinese modernization. Zhang Haidi, chairwoman of the China Disabled Persons' Federation, delivered a work report at the event. (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun) Does your vote still matter? By Mark Alexander web posted September 18, 2023 Last week we observed Constitution Day (September 17th), marking the anniversary of the signing of our Republic's formative document, the Constitution of the United States, at the Philadelphia Convention in 1787. It is the most consequential manmade governing covenant in history, a dramatic departure from the brutal rule of tyrants over the course of all preceding generations. It enshrined the foundation of American Liberty enumerated in our Declaration of Independence, providing the assurance that Rule of Law would prevail over rule of men, the terminus of the latter being tyranny. We know with great precision what the plain language of our Constitution meant then and now because its principal author, James Madison, along with founders Alexander Hamilton and John Jay, authored The Federalist Papers (1787-88), the definitive explication of our national Constitution. The Constitution was, by design, enacted to prevent the centralization of power. Our Founders codified the assurance of decentralized power, and other irrevocable rights, in our Constitution's Bill of Rights. Limiting the power of the central government was expressly detailed in Article Ten, which succinctly states, "The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people." As Madison wrote in Federalist No. 45: "The powers delegated by the proposed Constitution to the federal government are few and defined. Those which are to remain in the State governments are numerous and indefinite. The former will be exercised principally on external objects, as war, peace, negotiation and foreign commerce. ... The powers reserved to the several States will extend to all the objects which in the ordinary course of affairs, concern the lives and liberties, and properties of the people, and the internal order, improvement and prosperity of the State." Warning of the danger of centralization of power, Thomas Jefferson, the principal author of our Declaration of Independence, wrote, "When all government, domestic and foreign, in little as in great things, shall be drawn to Washington as the center of all power, it will render powerless the checks provided of one government on another." And of the consequences of that failure, he wrote, "Were we directed from Washington when to sow, and when to reap, we should soon want bread." The founding principles of our Constitution were to be followed exegetically as written. Our Constitution established a judicial branch in order to reduce or rectify legislative error, which offends the foundational principles of constitutional Rule of Law. But Jefferson feared that in the future the federal courts would become a "despotic branch." If that happened, he wrote, "The Constitution [would become] a mere thing of wax in the hands of the judiciary which they may twist and shape into any form they please." And he was correct. There has been, and always will be, great tension between the advocates of Liberty and tyranny, the latter being those seeking to undermine Rule of Law. Over the last century, the Republican Party has generally been the advocate for Liberty. The now-socialist Democrat Party has endlessly sought to empower central government rulers to the detriment of Liberty. Democrats have succeeded in large measure by ensuring their judicial appointees engage in constitutional eisegesis. They have politicized the Supreme Court and lower branches of the judiciary in order to circumvent the Constitution. These judges, like their political benefactors, have forsaken their oaths to uphold our Constitution and have devolved into nothing more than political pawns. The most significant civil measure to correct Democrat corruption of our Constitution is the ballot box. But what if your vote no longer counts? After the 2020 election, Donald Trump claimed that the election was stolen because of ballot miscounts and voting machine irregularities. These claims were the basis for the rioting at our nation's Capitol building on January 6, 2021, which reinforced the Left's hatred and fear of Trump and, some 30 months later, resulted in a plethora of indictments against Trump. Democrat strategists have used those indictments to promote Trump's popularity among his base, believing that they can defeat Trump again by utilizing the "hate and fear" factor. And as I wrote a year ago, I believe Joe Biden will NOT be their 2024 nominee. Instead, he will pull out at some point ahead of or at the end of the upcoming primary, leaving the selection of his successor to the delegates. And that will be a younger and more dynamic candidate who they hope will implement the next phase of their political platform. They may have overplayed their hand, but a Trump victory, even against Biden, is a steep uphill climb. That notwithstanding, what Trump should have focused on, and seems to finally understand now, is that it was the Demos' massive bulk-mail ballot fraud strategy that accounted for Biden's election in 2020 and most elements of that fraudulent strategy are still intact. Of the 155 million votes cast in 2020, 43% (66 million ballots) were cast by mail and a majority of those in states where authentication of the person receiving and casting the ballot is not required. Of all those who voted in person, 66% voted for Trump versus 42% for Biden which is to say that 58% of Biden ballots, almost 47 million votes, were cast by mail. Demos protest any measure to require voter ID, unlike any other civilized nation on the planet. The result is that millions of votes nationwide were not authenticated, which, in combination with massive Demo ballot-harvesting operations, significantly eroded the integrity of authentic votes meaning your vote. In addition to pushing for ever-longer voting periods instead of an election day to ensure they can rig elections with bulk-mail ballot fraud, Demos are simultaneously attempting to discard the constitutionally mandated Electoral College process. While electoral count ambiguity should be eliminated, discarding the Electoral College altogether would further undermine the power of votes in smaller states. For the record, in the 2020 election, there were more votes cast in Los Angeles County than the vote totals in 38 states. More than 80% of LA votes were bulk-mail ballots. Democrats would like to give LA County a much louder voice than the people of those 38 states. This summarizes the Left's strategy for imposing a permanent Democrat majority at the national level and over many states. And combined with the fact that the Leftmedia talkingheads and scribes serve as their publicists, as demonstrated most vividly by their blackout of the Biden/ChiCom connection just before the 2020 election, it is a formidable strategy. Bottom line: Democrats are doing what they have done for decades relegating our Constitution and the integrity of our election system to the trash heap of history. Republicans want to restore Rule of Law while Demos want to demolish it. So, again, what if the only civil measure to correct Democrat corruption of the judiciary is the ballot box, but your vote no longer counts? One answer is a disconcerting thought for many Americans, particularly all those urban and suburban "white privilege" leftists who keep Democrats in power. The singular reason that Democrats are so focused on the erosion of the fundamental Second Amendment rights of Americans is precisely because they understand, as did our Founders, that the ultimate defense of our Constitution, if they completely erode the corrective judicial checks and the integrity of the ballot box, is the bullet box. Fortunately, there are other measures that have potential to resolve these issues, and the one I believe has the most promise is a Constitutional Confederation of states, an alliance of those states that are not under the mob rule of urban leftists, whose delegations could assemble to affirm the authority of our Constitution in effect, re-ratify it and the Rule of Law it enshrines. Our Constitution established a Republic intended to reflect the consent of the governed, a nation of laws, not men. Article IV, Section 4 states unambiguously, "The United States shall guarantee to every state in this union a republican form of government..." A Constitutional Confederation of States should demand no less than the Federalist standard prescribed by our Constitution and affirmed in its Tenth Amendment. Those states re-ratifying as members of the Constitutional Confederation would determine an orderly plan to withdraw from the plethora of extra-constitutional regulations and taxes that are in clear violation of Tenth Amendment Federalism as was prescribed when each state first ratified our Constitution. This serious movement to restore the authority of our Constitution is a genuine act in support of "We the People" rather than an act of insurrection. It most assuredly could generate national momentum and would generate a LOT of heartburn for Democrats and their socialist cadres, as constitutional authority is anathema to their objective of state authority. A Constitutional Confederation is representative of the big ideas that need to be considered in order to resolve big problems. In 2020, Virginia was among the first states to begin passing laws or resolutions to prohibit or impede the enforcement of unlawful and unconstitutional actions, in effect giving the Constitution itself sanctuary. Other states have followed this model, and a confederation of those states around those constitutional protections is an alliance that could be achieved. Finally, we are the beneficiaries of generations of American Patriots who have pledged their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor "to support and defend" Liberty, and extend it to the next generation. Maintaining Liberty requires constant vigilance because the nature of unprincipled men and women is to corrupt our Constitution in order to accumulate power and influence. Patriots, hold the line! Mark Alexander is the executive editor of the Patriot Post. (ANSA) - ROME, SEP 18 - The government is aiming to merge Italy's bottom two personal income (IRPEF) brackets at 23%, cutting the second lowest from 27%, Economy Undersecretary Maurizio Leo told SkyTg24 Economia Monday. "We'll have to see if we can find the resources" in the 2024 budget bill," he told the business channel. He said it would cost some 14 billion euros to merge the two rates into a single one and to make a structural cut to the labour tax wedge, as the government has asso promised. (ANSA). (ANSA) - ROME, SEP 18 - Filmed rapes pass the limits of atrocity, Italy's privacy watchdog Pasquale Stanzione said Monday. He said that "the offended women and girls are two-time victims, and greater contempt is added to the crime". Italy has seen several cases of rapists filming their actions lately - most recently a 59-year-old Roman waste collector who allegedly filmed three rapes near the Italian capital between September and January last. (ANSA). (ANSA) - ROME, SEP 18 - Prosecutors in Milan have asked for charges to be dropped against right-to-die campaigner and activist Marco Cappato in relation to the assistance he provided to two Italians in committing assisted suicide in Switzerland last year. The treasurer of the association Luca Coscioni and candidate in the Monza by-election for the Senate seat left vacant by the late Silvio Berlusconi had reported himself to police in Milan. In July 2022 he accompanied terminally ill Elena Altamira, 69, to the Dignitas clinic in Zurich and then in November he accompanied 82-year-old Romano, a former journalist and copywriter who was confined to bed by a severe form of Parkinson's. Although assisted suicide is still formally illegal in Italy a Constitutional Court ruling has provided the basis for some regions to allow lethal drugs to be taken by some patients wishing to end their lives. (ANSA). (ANSA) - ROME, SEP 18 - Venice has put up notices warning tourists about greedy seagulls in the lagoon city. The signs, in Italian and English, advise tourists not to get too close to the increasingly aggressive animals, or feed them. The warnings have come after a series of incidents in which gulls have swooped down to pluck burgers and other food from tourists' hands. Venice city council has also advised tourists to keep to city ordinances against sitting down and eating pizza, burgers or chips on the steps of the city. The council said the birds had become "ever more aggressive". (ANSA). (ANSA) - ROME, SEP 18 - Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said Monday that the situation regarding the arrival of migrants from Africa "is not explosive, it has already exploded". Speaking to reporters at the Italian consulate in New York, Tajani said he intended to raise the issue of migratory pressure from Africa at the 2023 UN General Assembly. "The are no walls that are capable of halting the movement of millions and millions of people," he said. "Look at the history of the Barbarian Invasions - the Roman army, the most powerful in military history, could not stop them". On Sunday European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited Lampedusa with Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni after being invited to the Italian island to see the situation for herself. Over 127,000 migrants have entered Italy so far this year, approximately twice as many as in the same period in 2022, according to interior ministry data. Many of them enter via Lampedusa, Italy's southernmost island. Meloni has said the surge in migrant arrivals has put Italy under "unsustainable pressure". On Sunday von der Leyen presented a 10-point action plan for Lampedusa, including a possible new EU naval mission in the Mediterranean. Tajani has said that even the EU is not capable of addressing the issue on its own and has called for the involvement of the UN and NATO: (ANSA). A police officer failed to log a telephone call from a member of the public who had witnessed a car crash which led to the deaths of a couple who were left undiscovered for days, an inquiry has heard. A fatal accident inquiry (FAI) into the deaths of Lamara Bell, 25, and John Yuill, 28, began at Falkirk Sheriff Court on Monday. The couple died after the car they were in crashed on the M9 motorway near Stirling in July 2015. They were left lying in their Renault Clio for three days before being discovered, despite police previously being alerted to the incident. John Yuill and Lamara Bell, who died after the car they were in left the M9 near Stirling in July 2015 (Police Scotland/PA) A joint minute agreed by parties was read by junior counsel to the inquiry Elaine Smith. The inquiry heard how Sergeant Brian Henry, who generally worked at Dalkeith police office, volunteered for overtime shifts in the Bilston Glen contact centre in Midlothian in June 2015. He told then chief inspector Michaela Kerr that it had been a while since he had used the Storm case management system but he was sure with a quick refresher he would be competent. It had been agreed he was to be trained on the call handling system and if Ms Kerr was happy with his performance, he could do the overtime shifts. Mr Henry commenced overtime shifts on June 11 2015 and was working on the day John Wilson called Police Scotland on 101 to report the crash on the M9 eastbound junction nine slip road at the M80. The inquiry heard Mr Wilson called 101 at 11.31am on Sunday, July 5 and reported the crash. Mr Henry recorded the details in his police notebook, but this was not an accurate system of recording and were his own personal notes. Gordon Yuill, father of John Yuill, at Falkirk Sheriff Court for the fatal accident inquiry (Jane Barlow/PA) He undertook a web search to see whether the incident had already been reported and it had not. Ms Smith said: Brian Henry did not create a Storm entry or otherwise log a call. No police action was taken. The inquiry then heard how the families of Miss Bell and Mr Yuill made missing person reports after first checking with Police Scotland they were not in custody. A missing persons inquiry was then launched, with helicopter searches of the area where Mr Yuills phone last connected with a mobile phone mast near Auchterarder in Perth and Kinross. Later in the week, when Ms Bell and Mr Yuills families had learned of their fate, Mr Henry was asked about the crash which resulted in their deaths. The inquiry heard he could not remember recording the incident in the computer system. Police at the scene of the crash after the couples car was discovered (Andrew Milligan/PA) Mr Yuill and Miss Bell had been on a camping trip to Loch Earn with friends prior to their deaths. The inquiry heard there were staffing pressures at Bilston Glen control centre around the time when the crash occurred. Two of the smaller control centres in the east of Scotland, Stirling and Glenrothes, closed in early 2015. Many of the call handlers who worked at Glenrothes and Stirling had opted for voluntary redundancy. Additional operators were brought in to cover staffing shortfalls from Police Scotland staff which included Mr Henry. However, the inquiry heard, these additional resources were not given the same training as core call handling staff and that there were no standard operating procedures in place for escalating emergency calls that had come through 101. It is expected the inquiry will last a number of weeks. At a hearing at the High Court in Edinburgh in September 2021, Police Scotland was fined 100,000 after pleading guilty to health and safety failings which materially contributed to Ms Bells death. The court heard Ms Bell pleaded for help after being found and would probably have survived had she been rescued sooner. The inquiry heard on Monday how Ms Bell was found in significant pain when she was found on Wednesday July 8 2015. She had to be given ketamine and a general anaesthetic as a result of her injuries. She later died at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital on Sunday, July 12. Mr Yuill was pronounced dead at the scene. Diane Bell (right), mother of Lamara Bell, arrives at Falkirk Sheriff Court (Jane Barlow/PA) Former Police Scotland chief constable Sir Iain Livingstone apologised to the families of Mr Yuill and Ms Bell following the court case. Similar to an inquest in England and Wales, an FAI is not a criminal inquiry and is used to establish facts rather than apportion blame. Its purpose includes determining the cause of death, the circumstances in which the death occurred and to establish what reasonable precautions could have been taken to minimise the risk of future deaths in similar circumstances. Procurator fiscal Andy Shanks, who leads on death investigations for COPFS, said: Following a thorough and detailed investigation and criminal prosecution, this fatal accident inquiry will look at the full circumstances surrounding these tragic deaths and help avoid such an incident happening again. The families of Lamara Bell and John Yuill and their legal representatives will continue to be updated as the inquiry progresses. The inquiry, before Sheriff James Williamson, continues. Comedian Eddie Kadi has said is feels like a dream to compete on Strictly Come Dancing after having to overcome numerous barriers in his life. During Saturdays launch episode, it was revealed the stand-up will be paired with professional dancer Karen Hauer for the 2023 series of the BBC show. Kadi, 40, said joining Strictly was a special moment in his journey after coming to the UK from the Democratic Republic of Congo unable to speak English and now performing alongside TV stars he grew up watching. He told the PA news agency: For me to be a part of this thing, this amazing institution its a dream. People have to understand that Ive been on a very long journey. Im a boy from Congo, came to this country, couldnt speak a word of English and acquired it over the years. And some of the people that Ive grown up watching on TV, Im now in the show with like Les Dennis. Its such a special moment for me, and just to get to this stage after everything is a different story for me so Ive already won. So the only competition for me has just been being able to get through certain barriers. Im here with my trophy so theres no competition, its all fun, its all amazing, its just been decorated with the world of dance, which Im incredibly honoured (by) because you know what? Dance lessons are very expensive and Im getting them for free its like January Boxing Day sales. Kinshasa-born Kadi was the first British black comedian to headline the O2 Arena in London and has fronted The Official Afrobeats Chart Show on BBC Radio 1Xtra. He is also a team captain on ITVs panel show Sorry I Didnt Know. In 2021, he was a host at the Mobo awards and is in production for his own documentary with Channel 4. Karen Hauer (Ray Burmiston/BBC/PA) Kadi joins this years Strictly line-up alongside a host of famous faces including comedian and former Family Fortunes presenter Dennis, veteran broadcaster Angela Rippon, former Love Island star Zara McDermott and Channel 4 News presenter Krishnan Guru-Murthy. Reflecting on his pairing with Venezuelan-American dancer Hauer, Kadi said it feels like it was meant to be as they laugh all the time during rehearsals. I actually think When are we going to get some dancing in and somehow, along the lines, we get the dancing in but from the moment I found out I was just like this is amazing', he added. Karen is just full of life but she also has that bit where theres equilibrium, theres a nice balance and shes Latino, she knows how to get me in shape. Hauer agreed that she felt their energies matched and praised Kadis sociable nature. I love how much everyone loves being around Eddie and that to me is everything, she said. How everybody is attracted to him, to his energy and everybody has something nice to say about him and that makes me feel really good because I know that I have someone very special. The comedian also revealed he is most looking forward to salsa dancing as well as taking on the Congolese rumba which he described as very sensual and very slow. Hauer said she feels Kadis Latin American dancing will be fantastic as she noted he already has rhythm, but revealed she is really looking forward to showing off a more serious side of the comic when they explore ballroom dancing. He has a lot of energy and I want to just hone in those energies and just place everything, she said. Literally I feel like Im going to get a Ferrari, Im going to build a Ferrari, Ive got all the good parts and now Im just seeing how everythings going to blend in together. Strictly Come Dancing will return on Saturday September 23 on BBC and BBC iPlayer. Five Metropolitan Police officers have denied gross misconduct over the stop-and-search of athletes Bianca Williams and her partner Ricardo Dos Santos. He was driving a Mercedes through west London, with their then three-month old baby in the car, on July 4 2020 when they were stopped by police. The couple, who are black, were handcuffed and later Ms Williams, a gold medallist in the 4x100m relays at both the 2018 European and Commonwealth Games, accused the police of having racially profiled them. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) watchdog previously said officers had followed the couple as they drove through Maida Vale before stopping and searching them for weapons, and Mr Dos Santos for drugs. Nothing was found. On Monday, five officers appeared at a police misconduct hearing in south east London. Great Britains Bianca Williams (Martin Rickett/PA) Disciplinary panel chairman Chew Yin Jones asked each of them: Do you accept or deny that your behaviour on July 4 2020 amounted to gross misconduct? Each of the officers replied with the word deny. They could be sacked if gross misconduct is proven. It is alleged the officers followed, pursued and stopped a car driven by a male, used force to restrain the driver and passenger, who were black and detained them for a period of time. Acting Sergeant Rachel Simpson and Pcs Allan Casey, Jonathan Clapham, Michael Bond and Sam Franks all face allegations that they breached police standards over equality and diversity during the stop-and-search. Acting Sgt Simpson and Pcs Clapham, Bond and Franks also face allegations that their actions amounted to a breach of professional behaviour standards in relation to the use of force. They are said to have failed in relation to their levels of authority, respect and courtesy as well as in their duties and responsibilities. Pc Casey is also accused of breaching professional standards in the way he carried out his duties and responsibilities or gave orders and instructions. It is also alleged that the honesty and integrity of Pcs Casey, Clapham, Bond and Franks also breached professional behaviour standards. Footage of the search was later widely shared on social media, and both Ms Williams, 29, andr Mr Dos Santos, 28, who is a Portuguese 400m sprinter who competed at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, have been critical of how they were treated. Which investigations have been launched into claims against Russell Brand? Russell Brand is being investigated by the Metropolitan Police, BBC, Channel 4 and a production company after he was accused of rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse while working for the organisations. The high-profile comedian and actor has denied the claims, including of controlling, abusive and predatory behaviour, which have been made by four women relating to alleged incidents between 2006 and 2013 in the UK and US. A joint investigation published over the weekend by The Times and The Sunday Times newspapers, alongside a TV documentary by Channel 4 Dispatches, revealed the allegations facing the 48-year-old, who said on Friday night all of his relationships have been consensual. Here the PA news agency outlines which investigations are under way and the potential scope of these probes. BBC The Russell Brand Show began broadcasting in 2006 on BBC Radio 6 Music before moving to BBC Radio 2 after gaining popularity. Brand left the station in 2008 after he and guest Jonathan Ross made headlines for leaving a lewd voicemail for Fawlty Towers actor Andrew Sachs about his granddaughter. Following the initial claims, a BBC spokesperson said: The documentary and associated reports contained serious allegations, spanning a number of years. Russell Brand worked on BBC radio programmes between 2006 and 2008 and we are urgently looking into the issues raised. On Monday, The Times further reported that a woman claims Brand used the BBCs car service to pick her up from school when she was 16 so she could visit his home. Channel 4 Russell Brand worked on several programmes on Channel 4 in the mid-2000s (Jonathan Brady/PA) The Russell Brand Show was also broadcast in a chat format on Channel 4 in 2006 and he later returned to the channel to host Russell Brands Ponderland for two seasons from 2007. Brand is accused of pursuing audience members for sex while presenting Big Brother spin-off shows EFourum and Big Brothers Big Mouth on Channel 4. Channel 4 announced it is conducting its own internal investigation and the broadcaster has removed content featuring Brand from their streaming service while they look into the allegations. It said: We will be writing to all our current suppliers reminding them of their responsibilities under our code of conduct, as we are committed to ensuring our industry has safe, inclusive and professional working environments. Production company Banijay UK A researcher has claimed concerns about Brands behaviour were reported to production managers at Endemol, the company commissioned by Channel 4 to produce the Big Brother spin-off programmes in 2004 and 2005, but were dismissed. Banijay UK, which bought Endemol in 2020, has also launched an urgent internal investigation and encouraged anybody who feels that they were affected by Brands behaviour to come forward. The Metropolitan Police and Los Angeles Police Department Russell Brand during his stand-up comedy show at the Shepherds Bush Empire in 2006 (Ian West/PA) The Metropolitan Police announced on Tuesday it had received a complaint from a woman of sexual assault alleged to have occurred in Soho, central London, in 2003. The claim is separate to the allegations made by The Sunday Times. The Met has said it is aware of media reporting of a series of allegations of sexual assault but there have been no direct reports in relation to the claims yet. The force said officers spoke to The Sunday Times over the weekend and further contact would be made with the newspapers and Channel 4 to ensure any victims of crime who they have spoken with are aware of how they may report any criminal allegations to police. It also encouraged anyone who believes they have been a victim of sexual assault to contact the police no matter how long ago it happened. A spokesman for the Los Angeles Police Department said they do not have an open investigation into claims made against Brand, and another spokesman confirmed there have been no arrests following two alleged incidents in the US. 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. The Princess of Wales burst into a fit of giggles when a lifejacket she was wearing suddenly inflated during a visit to a Royal Navy air base. Kate, who is Commodore-in-Chief of the Fleet Air Arm, erupted in laughter as she was being shown around Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Yeovilton in Somerset one of the busiest military airfields in the UK. During the visit, the princess spent time in the air traffic control tower and spoke over the radio with the crew of a Wildcat helicopter as it came in to land. She also heard the roar of an F-35B Lightning from RAF Marham as it buzzed the control tower. Kate, who was wearing a dark jacket, white blouse, dark trousers and dark heels, was also shown around a Merlin Mk4 helicopter, which is used by the Royal Marines, and a Merlin Mk2, which hunts submarines. It was during an exercise with rescue and survival equipment that she tried on the lifejacket and was surprised at how quickly it inflated. The Princess of Wales spent time in the air traffic control tower during a visit to RNAS Yeovilton (Richard Pohle/The Times/PA) Louise Evans-Hughes, a leading survival equipment technician, said she knew exactly what was going to happen the moment the lifejacket inflated. Speaking afterwards, she said: I told the princess there might be a bit of a bang because sometimes when the Velcro rips open there is a bit of a noise. I think that was why she was a bit apprehensive to pull it. As soon as she pulled it, it inflated. I gave the princess the option whether she wanted to put it on or whether one of my colleagues would put it on. I didnt know if she would or not, but it was really nice that she got hands-on and got really engaged in what we do and making the kit work. Kate giggled with surprise at how quickly the lifejacket inflated (Richard Pohle/The Times/PA) Describing the princesss reaction to the lifejacket inflating, she said: I see it a lot when we train the air crew pilots so its something that I see all the time so I knew what was going to happen and it was quite nice to watch her face. I think afterwards she said it was quite snug and didnt realise how big it was going to go and I quickly let some air out so she wouldnt be uncomfortable. The 32-year-old servicewoman, who is originally from Bath, said Kate is the first member of the royal family she has met. The princess was really engaged, really excited and asking loads of questions, which is quite nice, she said. (I) Think, for me, every day that you become a bit immune to what you do. Its nice to be remembered and some of the things that youre doing. The Princess of Wales met Royal Navy air crew during her visit (Richard Pohle/The Times/PA) She said she did not have any nerves until seconds before she was introduced to Kate. It sort of just hit me. I was thinking about saying Good morning, Maam but she was just so engaging and lovely, as soon as she started talking to me I was really put at ease. For the final leg of her visit, the princess visited the Wildcat training centre and assisted the crews who were being trained to load the anti-shipping Sea Venom missile on to the Wildcat Mk2 helicopter. Kate then tried her hand at flying a Wildcat Mk2 in a simulator, which allows air crew to practise flying over land or on to ships. The maritime attack helicopter is designed to operate from the frigates and destroyers of the Royal Navy. Kate sat in a Royal Navy Merlin Mk2 helicopter (Richard Pohle/The Times/PA) The King went to the air station for helicopter flying training in 1974, when he was Prince of Wales. More than 4,000 personnel are employed on the site, which is home to a number of frontline squadrons and training units. Captain Duncan Thomas, RNAS Yeoviltons commanding officer, said afterwards: I am delighted and privileged to have welcomed the Princess of Wales to the Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton, at the start of what I am sure will be a long and rewarding relationship in her capacity as Commodore-in-Chief of the Fleet Air Arm. Weve all been hugely excited by this opportunity and I am delighted that Her Royal Highness will be able to support and inspire our exceptionally talented sailors, air crew and wider workforce family for years to come. The Government must ensure lessons are swiftly learned from a series of self-harm related deaths in prison over the last three years, ministers have been warned. There have been 10 self-inflicted deaths in HMP Wormwood Scrubs between 2018 and 2022 according to official figures. Andy Slaughter, the Labour MP for Hammersmith, believes legal investigations into prisoners deaths at the Victorian-era prison in West London are taking far too long to go ahead. Mr Slaughter said the backlog in coroners courts meant that important lessons that could be learned from inquests are being delayed, potentially risking further harm to prisoners. Labour MP Andy Slaughter speaking in the House of Commons (UK Parliament/Parliament TV/PA) The news comes as the Government has launched an investigation into the conditions at another London prison, HMP Wandsworth, following the escape of terror suspect Daniel Khalife. In Parliament, Mr Slaughter has raised the inquest of Luke Clarke, which took place this summer. The 38-year-old was found dead in his prison cell in Wormwood Scrubs in April 2020. It found inadequate care, fear and confusion contributed to Lukes death, Mr Slaughter told MPs. What is the Ministry of Justice doing to prevent the unacceptable level of self-inflicted and avoidable death in prison, and what is it doing to speed up the inquest process? Justice minister Damian Hinds said that rates of self-harm in Wormwood Scrubs are unacceptably high (Stefan Rousseau/PA) Justice minister Damian Hinds replied: Ive visited Wormwood Scrubs myself. Rates of self-harm are unacceptably high. They vary by place, of course in the womens estate we have a particular issue with self-harm. We are working very closely with the National Health Service, who of course provide mental health support in prisons, and I am absolutely determined that we bring levels of self-harm down. Speaking to the PA News Agency, Mr Slaughter warned: We have got six more of those inquests to come of people who, since Luke died three years ago, have taken their own lives in the Scrubs. But he added that these cases had faced delays in appearing at court, limiting coroners ability to provide authorities with recommendations on how to prevent similar deaths. The Labour MP said: If you are not even having the inquests, how can you have those reports through? The logic is, people will continue dying because the changes have not been made, because the inquests havent been held and the reports havent been written. He added: This is true of every prison in the country and particularly the big Victorian prisons like Wandsworth, which is in the news for other reasons. The Government has launched an investigation into the conditions at HMP Wandsworth (Lucy North/PA) Mr Slaughter has pressed justice ministers to meet with him and the charity Inquest to discuss self-harm at Wormwood Scrubs, as promised before Parliaments summer recess. Ministry of Justice figures show there have been a small but consistent number of self-inflicted deaths at the prison as far back as 1978, with similar pictures in other prisons. In 2018, there were three self-inflicted deaths in the prison, followed by one in 2019, two in 2020, three in 2021, and one in 2022. Inquest believes there have been further deaths in 2023. Deborah Coles, director of the charity, said Wormwood Scrubs had a long and dismal record of failing to protect the health and wellbeing of those who are owed a duty of care, pointing to the conclusion given by the jury in Mr Clarkes case. She went on: Dehumanising and impoverished regimes and conditions are the appalling reality for far too many people in prison, which exacerbates physical and mental ill health. We must urgently dismantle prisons, dramatically reduce prison numbers and redirect resources to holistic, welfare and community mental health services to prevent future deaths, not least at a time of increasing inequality and austerity. A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: We want to see far fewer self-inflicted deaths and self-harm in custody which is why we have increased staff training on self-harm prevention, are working with the NHS to improve mental healthcare and fund the Samaritans. We are also working to bring down coroners caseloads so grieving families can get the answers they need. This includes changing the law to streamline processes and investing over 6 billion to help local authority services including coroner services recover from the pandemic. Samaritans can be called on 116 123, or emailed at jo@samaritans.org. The Metropolitan Police have received a report of an alleged sexual assault following news reports about Russell Brand. The 48-year-old comedian and actor has been accused of rape, assault and emotional abuse between 2006 and 2013, when he was at the height of his fame working for the BBC, Channel 4 and starring in Hollywood films. Brand has strongly denied the allegations, which also include claims of controlling, abusive and predatory behaviour. The Met Police said they have now received an allegation of sexual assault in Soho, central London, in 2003, which emerged as the remaining live shows for his Bipolarisation tour were postponed. In a short statement, the force said: On Sunday September 17, the Met received a report of a sexual assault which was alleged to have taken place in Soho in central London in 2003. Officers are in contact with the woman and will be providing her with support. We first spoke with The Sunday Times on Saturday September 16 and have since made further approaches to The Sunday Times and Channel 4 to ensure that anyone who believes they have been the victim of a sexual offence is aware of how to report this to the police. The woman who has now reported the alleged sexual assault had not spoken to The Sunday Times. A performance of Brands tour due to go ahead on Tuesday at the Theatre Royal Windsor in Berkshire was postponed, with the shows promoters saying in a statement shared by the theatre: We are postponing these few remaining addiction charity fundraiser shows, we dont like doing it but we know youll understand. Performances had been scheduled for two more venues this month, including The Pavilions in Plymouth on Friday, and The Civic At The Halls in Wolverhampton next Thursday. The live shows were described as: Rules and rule breaking! Democracy and freedom! We reach conclusions from mass confusion by polling the live audience. Brand usually posts a new show on the video platform Rumble on weekdays at 5pm, but there was no new episode on Monday, with his most recent appearance a short one on Friday when he denied the allegations against him that were then published the following day. A joint investigation by The Times, the Sunday Times and Channel 4s Dispatches includes allegations Brand assaulted one of the women when she was a 16-year-old schoolgirl and another woman has claimed that he raped her against a wall in his home in Los Angeles. In a now deleted YouTube video, Brand can be heard joking about raping a woman during a recording of Richard Herrings Leicester Square Theatre Podcast in 2013. In the clip, published by the MailOnline, he told the audience: Its not my extremism that I need to protect, its my mundanity. Im just a bloke from Essex, from a single-parent family, that is a pretty comprehensive show-off. After a pause, Brand added: Oh, and also I raped someone once. I killed her after, shell never tell. The audience can be heard laughing, while Herring shakes his head and chuckles. Before the first allegations were published, Brand posted a video on Friday saying he has been promiscuous but that all of his relationships have been consensual. Russell Brand leaves the Troubadour Wembley Park theatre in north-west London after performing a comedy set (James Manning/PA) The BBC, Channel 4 and Banijay UK, which bought Endemol, the company commissioned by Channel 4 to produce the Big Brother spin-off shows Brand hosted, have all launched investigations into his behaviour while he was working on their programmes. Downing Street urged the broadcasters to set out the results of their investigations into Brand transparently. Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks official spokesman called the allegations very serious and concerning, and said: People should feel able to raise concerns where they have them and know they will be treated seriously and treated with sensitivity. He added: The Prime Minister has been clear there should never be any space for harassment, regardless of where it is found. Channel 4 announced that it has removed content featuring Brand from its streaming service while it looks into the claims and will remind production companies of its code of conduct. We are committed to ensuring our industry has safe, inclusive and professional working environments, the broadcasters statement added. It comes after Brand was accused of pursuing audience members for sex while presenting Big Brother spin-off shows EFourum and Big Brothers Big Mouth on Channel 4. Banijay UK, which bought Endemol in 2020, said it has launched an urgent internal investigation and encouraged anybody who feels that they were affected by Brands behaviour to come forward. The BBC is facing questions after one of the women, who was 16 when she claims Brand began a relationship with her, alleged that he used the corporations car service to pick her up from school to take her to his home. The BBC is facing questions (PA) In 2020, the same woman contacted contacted Brands literary agent at the time, who was also the co-founder of talent agency Tavistock Wood. A spokesman for the agency said Brand categorically and vehemently denied the allegations at the time but they now believe they were horribly misled and have terminated all professional ties with the comedian. Culture, Media and Sport Committee chairwoman Caroline Dinenage said the group will be looking for the same reassurance from the BBC which has been provided by Channel 4. Ms Dinenage told BBC Radio 4s PM programme the committee would be examining who knew what and when, and the extent to which any reports that happened at the time were investigated. She said: Whats concerned me most has been the reaction across media and social media from the number of people that are saying This is shocking but not surprising, talking about open secrets and how this was, people were turning a blind eye, and thats what does worry me and I think thats what my committee will be looking at. In a statement to the PA news agency Brands publisher, Bluebird, said that all future publishing with the comedian had been paused. The imprint of Pan Macmillan has published the comedians titles including Recovery: Freedom From Our Addictions and Mentors: How To Help And Be Helped in recent years. An upcoming title, Recovery: The Workbook, by the comedian, was due to be published by Bluebird in December 2025, according to the companys website. As Dispatches aired on Saturday Brand performed a sold out comedy gig at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre in north-west London as part of his Russell Brand Bipolarisation tour. In a statement, the Windsor venues management said: Theatre Royal Windsor will be offering ticket refunds in line with our terms and conditions of sale. A spokesman for the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) told PA they do not have an open investigation into Brand, and another confirmed there have been no arrests following two allegations concerning claims that are said to have happened in the US. The much-anticipated revival of Australian soap Neighbours has launched with a host of familiar faces alongside a glamorous-yet-mysterious new character played by The OCs Mischa Barton. The new chapter of Neighbours saw fan-favourites Guy Pearce and Annie Jones reprise their roles as Mike Young and Jane Harris after the former flames rekindled their relationship in the final episodes of the series last July. Meanwhile characters Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher) and his on-screen wife Susan (Jackie Woodburne), also returned for the first episode, alongside Harold Bishop (Ian Smith) who was intent on showing new character JJ Varga-Murphy (Riley Bryant) his book about the history of Ramsay Street. We are so excited to share an official first look of brand new #Neighbours, with Reece's (Mischa Barton's) first appearance! Watch this and more from 18th September on @AmazonFreevee, @Channel10AU, @TVNZ, @RTEOne and @PrimeVideo depending on where you are. pic.twitter.com/U6AYEidUtl Neighbours (@neighbours) September 8, 2023 A little bird tells me that you are very interested in the Street, I have got the book for you, Bishop says. The soap, which has followed the lives of those living and working in the fictional Melbourne suburb of Erinsborough since 1985, was dropped by Channel 5 after failing to secure new funding. After an emotional goodbye last year, the drama returned on Amazon Freevee on Monday with new character Reece Sinclair (Barton) making a glamorous entrance to the Lassiters Hotel with a host of shopping bags, before a steamy scene in a lift with hotel employee Byron Stone (Xavier Molyneux). Later, they were in her hotel bedroom together when he quizzes Sinclair on why she is in Melbourne, having travelled from New Hampshire in the US and stayed for three weeks. I came for a conference and its been way too long since Ive had any time off so I thought Id hang aroundplus there are some appealing sights, she said, looking at him. ONLY ONE MORE SLEEP UNTIL NEIGHBOURS RETURNS! Here are some of the cast reminding us of what we've been missing pic.twitter.com/lwMkekCZ4R Neighbours (@neighbours) September 17, 2023 Sinclair later mysteriously ignores a call from her father while at the hotel. Teenage drama The OC is celebrating two decades since it debuted with Barton playing the troubled Marissa Cooper, who met her demise in the penultimate season of the show. On Monday, Neighbours returned on Amazons free ad-supported streaming service, with episodes airing daily from Monday to Thursday in the UK and the US. Australias Network 10 will retain first-run rights in Australia for the new chapter of the series and it will be available to stream on Prime Video in Canada, Ireland, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. Downing Street has described the sexual assault allegations made against Russell Brand by four different women as very serious and concerning. The 48-year-old comedian and actor has been accused of rape, assault and emotional abuse between 2006 and 2013, when he was at the height of his fame working for the BBC, Channel 4 and starring in Hollywood films. Brand vehemently denies the allegations, which also include claims of controlling, abusive and predatory behaviour, and said, in a video posted online on Friday night, that all of his relationships have been consensual. Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks official spokesman said: These are very serious and concerning allegations. The Met Police has asked anyone who believes they have been a victim of a sexual assault to come forward to speak to officers. As the Foreign Secretary said over the weekend, people should feel able to raise concerns where they have them and know they will be treated seriously and treated with sensitivity. The Prime Minister has been clear there should never be any space for harassment, regardless of where it is found. The BBC, Channel 4 and Banijay UK, which bought Endemol, the company commissioned by Channel 4 to produce the Big Brother spin-off shows Brand hosted, have all launched investigations into Brands behaviour while he was working on their programmes. Downing Street urged the BBC and Channel 4 to set out the results of their investigations into Brand transparently. The No 10 spokesman said: Its right that this is looked into and I think both of the broadcasters have said they would investigate, and that is the right step. Im not going to prejudge that, it will be for them to set out what they find and do so transparently. Russell Brand has denied the allegations and said all of his relationships have been consensual (John Stillwell/PA) Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer is expected to speak to broadcasters about their investigations into Brand at the first available opportunity. It is understood she will seek assurances that their inquiries will be carried out thoroughly and transparently. In recent years Brand has forged a new path as a wellness influencer and host of a YouTube show but Downing Street declined to urge broadcasters and streaming platforms such as YouTube and Netflix to take down his output. The Prime Ministers official spokesman said: Its a decision for all broadcasters to consider the right approach in light of these very serious allegations. They are deeply concerning, they need to be investigated. But Im not going to dictate the actions of broadcasters or streaming services. The allegations, detailed in a joint investigation by the Times, Sunday Times and Channel 4s Dispatches, include one woman who says she was sexually assaulted during a three-month relationship with Brand when she was 16 and still at school. The woman described his behaviour towards her as grooming as he would allegedly provide her with scripts on how to deceive her parents into allowing her to visit him. Russell Brand leaves the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre in north-west London after performing a comedy set as he faces allegations of sexual assault (James Manning/PA) The BBC is facing questions after she claimed that he used the corporations car service to pick her up from school to take her to his home. The broadcaster previously said it is urgently looking into the issues raised while Brand worked on BBC radio programmes between 2006 and 2008. In 2020, the same woman contacted contacted Brands literary agent at the time, who was also the co-founder of talent agency Tavistock Wood. A spokesman for the agency said Brand categorically and vehemently denied the allegations at the time but they now believe they were horribly misled and have terminated all professional ties with the comedian. Another woman has said she was raped against a wall at Brands home in Los Angeles. Channel 4 announced it is carrying out its own internal investigation following the allegations and the broadcaster has removed content featuring Brand from its streaming service while it looks into the claims. We will be writing to all our current suppliers reminding them of their responsibilities under our Code of Conduct, as we are committed to ensuring our industry has safe, inclusive and professional working environments, a Channel 4 statement added. We are basically acting like pimps to Russell Brands needs. Serious allegations about Brands behaviour in the workplace have been uncovered. Several women share their shocking stories with @C4Dispatches and @thetimes. #C4Dispatches Brand denies all allegations. pic.twitter.com/r2nvA3mYjM Channel 4 Dispatches (@C4Dispatches) September 17, 2023 It comes after Brand was accused of pursuing audience members for sex while presenting Big Brother spin-off shows EFourum and Big Brothers Big Mouth on Channel 4. A researcher claimed concerns about Brands behaviour were reported to production managers at Endemol, the company commissioned by Channel 4 to produce the programmes in 2004 and 2005, but were dismissed. Banijay UK, which bought Endemol in 2020, later announced it has launched an urgent internal investigation and encouraged anybody who feels that they were affected by Brands behaviour to come forward. The Metropolitan Police said they will speak to The Sunday Times and Channel 4 to ensure any victims of crime who they have spoken with are aware of how they may report any criminal allegations to police. A spokesman for the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) told the PA news agency they do not have an open investigation into Brand, and another confirmed there have been no arrests following two allegations concerning claims that are said to have happened in the US. Meanwhile, questions are now being asked about whether TV chiefs were aware of any concerns about Brands behaviour while working on their programmes. Caroline Dineage, chairwoman of the Commons Culture, Media, and Sport Committee, told Times Radio there may be a full-on inquiry into the culture of open secrets in the TV industry and behaviour of media giants. She said TV executives could be invited to give evidence in front of the select committee, adding: Were going to be writing to the TV companies and asking them to set out the process for the inquiries that theyre making, and we need a kind of sense of timelines on this. But were not ruling out inviting them in to give evidence to the select committee if we dont feel that were getting a satisfactory response. This is happening pic.twitter.com/N8zIKLbJN2 Russell Brand (@rustyrockets) September 15, 2023 In a video statement posted online ahead of the publication of the claims, Brand said he was facing a litany of extremely egregious and aggressive attacks. Amidst this litany of astonishing, rather baroque attacks are some very serious allegations that I absolutely refute, he said. As Dispatches aired on Saturday evening, Brand performed a sold-out comedy gig at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre in north-west London as part of his Russell Brand Bipolarisation tour. He is scheduled to perform at three more venues in September, including a show at the Theatre Royal in Windsor on Tuesday, The Pavilions in Plymouth on Friday, and The Civic At The Halls in Wolverhampton next Thursday. Nine inmates who escaped from a Pennsylvania juvenile detention facility were taken into custody on Monday following a manhunt, authorities said. The inmates, all of who were male, fled the facility on Sunday wearing white and gray shirts and shorts, the Robeson Township Police Department in Berks County. The escape happened following a riot at the academy, according to another local police agency in Berks County. State and local law enforcement regained control of the detention center, authorities said, but some of the offenders escaped. Authorities said they believed they were able to escape the youth detention facility after overtaking two female guards and stealing their keys. All nine escapees, whose ages range between 15 and 17, were found within about two hours on Monday morning, said David Beohm, a public information officer with the Pennsylvania State Police. At 5:45 a.m., four of the boys were tired, cold and "basically gave up," Beohm said. They decided to knock on a door of a home selected at random on Oak Grove Road in Morgantown, Pennsylvania. The homeowner then called the authorities. At 6:36 a.m., officials received reports of a stolen vehicle and trailer on Oak Grove Road. Inside were the other five escapees, Beohm said. Troopers pursued with the stolen vehicle and apprehended four of the juveniles, police said. The fifth ran into a nearby field but was soon found by police. All the juveniles were taken into custody in a state that was visibly dirty, with some missing footwear, officials said. All nine will be charged with escape, in addition to any other crimes they may have committed overnight, Beohm said. The escapees are expected to be interviewed by a criminal investigator later today. Berks County borders Chester County, the location where authorities searched for and captured escaped inmate Danelo Cavalcante after a 14-day manhunt. ABC News' Darren Reynolds contributed to this story. 9 juvenile inmates captured after escape from Pennsylvania detention center, police say originally appeared on abcnews.go.com The prince cheered on the participants of the Invictus Games alongside his wife last week - Getty They jangle as deals are sealed in the City, glint as golden handshakes (or fist bumps) are performed in Palo Alto, and twinkle merrily against the lapping waters in Instagram holiday posts. These are bracelets on men glimpsed from a shirt cuff where once a statement Rolex would have pride of place, or perhaps jostling alongside it. Most notably recently, the bro bracelet featured on Prince Harrys jubilantly waving arms as the prince cheered on the participants of the Invictus Games alongside his wife. The Duchess of Sussex enjoys wearing a bracelet or two herself (shes rarely seen without her Cartier Love one in yellow gold), but the Princes have long been a feature of his wardrobe for more sentimental reasons than a deep and meaningful relationship with Cartier. Hes spoken in the past about the significance of the beaded bracelets that he steadfastly wears, trinkets from trips to Africa amassed over the years a place of solace for the royal in the aftermath of his mother Princess Dianas death. His wife and he have used them for political means, too: in 2019, on a visit to Cape Town, the pair sported matching bracelets spelling out the word justice in a nod to the Justice Desk, an African human rights organisation. So we can count Harry out of the new crop of arrivistes who adorn themselves in bracelets; his collection clearly means a great deal to him and theres no snide points to be won in mocking a man who draws comfort from a little trinket on his wrist. He recently added to his roster too, with a new beaded bracelet also sported by Meghan courtesy of the Invictus Games. Harry has spoken in the past about the significance of the beaded bracelets that he steadfastly wears - Getty Mens jewellery in general has become a booming business in the past few decades. Recently Dolce & Gabbanas Alta Gioielleria range of expensive jewels added mens trinketry to its line-up, and across online retail sites like Mr Porter and Matches Fashion fine jewellery has proliferated. At ground level, men are more expressive than ever in terms of jewellery Harry Styles donning pearls has encouraged a whole generation to take up the milky stones once preserved to grannys jewellery box. That the bracelet has become a hallmark of a certain kind of successful alpha man Jeff Bezos is never seen without his wrist with adornments, Mark Zuckerberg displayed a collection of bangles when taking his daughters to a Taylor Swift concert is telling. Bracelets whether beaded, leather or metal used to be the preserve of Henrys and Ollies on their gap yah, garnered on trips to Thailand and Africa alongside the Instagram #content to match. But then a curious thing happened: the trend caught on with their dads. Alongside the rise of casualisation in mens clothing, which meant that the Captain of Industry suit was swapped for slouchy hoodies and the wingtips for trainers, those old symbols of masculine power have been diluted somewhat. The statement watch so prevalent in the Gordon Gekko era of men-on-the-make and shiny cufflinks have been replaced with decoration of a different kind. The weighty chain bracelet a relic from Harry Enfields gauche Loadsamoney character is also replaced, thankfully, with more humble iterations. Without going down the crystals and moonbeams route, perhaps its synonymous with the rise in all matters around mens mental health that beaded bracelets have replaced a stonking great watch that wears its price on your wrist (and will get you mugged in certain London environs). Even if the most spiritual thing youve done is a spot of downward dog at the behest of the wife on holiday, the new wrist action all woven threads and coral stones at least lends the pretence of a kind of soulfulness. Brands such as the Danish Shamballa have even taken the template and aesthetic the kind of beaded bracelet one might see at a beach shack in Koh Tao and applied luxury gemstones at 1,000 price points. Thats a lot of cash to look like youre waiting on your A-level results. A more subtle and discreet variant is an easier in for the uninitiated: brushed metal with minimal detailing over gewgaws with candy-bright baubles. The heirloom watch will always have its day, but now there are a few young pretenders alongside it on the wrist. Try these... a Clockwise from top left: Black ceramic cable bracelet, 465, legramme.com; Tommy Hilfiger stainless steel bracelet, 59, johnlewis.com; Isabel Marant beaded bracelet, 95, mrporter.com; Kai Agate bracelet, 120, miansai.com 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. Americans have a fairly dim view of President Joe Biden. One way he could change that: announce his retirement. Biden, 80, seems to think concerns about his age are overblown. Hes campaigning for reelection on the premise that hell retain the vitality needed to do one of the worlds most demanding jobs until hes at least 86, which would be his age at the end of a second term, in 2029. The White House has begun emphasizing the vigorous schedule Biden keeps up, while Bidens reelection campaign is running a TV ad touting the rigorous trip he made to war-torn Ukraine earlier this year. Voters dont seem to be buying it. In a recent Associated Press poll, 77% of respondents said Biden is too old to run for reelection. The debate over Bidens vitality, or lack of it, is giving retirement a bad name. In the private sector, the average age of a CEO is 58 and many companies have a mandatory retirement age, generally between 65 and 70. There are a few prominent business leaders older than Biden, such as Warren Buffett, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway (93) and News Corp. executive chairman Rupert Murdoch (92). But those oldsters typically run empires of their own making, which gives them the privilege of sticking around for as long for as they choose. Go out on top? US President Joe Biden in Washington, D.C. (AFP) Biden seems to think it would be some kind of failure to leave the White House after one term. But there could be a nobler way of looking at it. The Washington political establishment is a notorious gerontocracy. The average age of a senator is 65, with 16 senators 75 or older and four 80 or older. Ruth Bader Ginsburg remained on the Supreme Court until her death in 2020 at age 87, and she may have cost Democrats a crucial court seat by refusing to retire during President Obamas second term, when she was even older than Biden is now. [Drop Rick Newman a note, follow him on Twitter, or sign up for his newsletter.] It's time for somebody in Washington to stand up for retirement, because its honorable to go out on top and make room for those coming next. Old-timers stay in Washington forever because they can. There are no term limits for elected officials or Supreme Court justices. Incumbency allows some politicians to get reelected almost on autopilot, because they become household names and develop entrenched political machines capable challengers dont want to tangle with. The average age of an American is 38. Yet the United States has never had a president from a generation newer than the baby boomers, who range in age from 57 to 75. Imagine if Biden announced hes stepping down after one term because its finally time for younger leadership throughout government. Americans would cheer and Bidens approval rating, currently a wan 41%, would undoubtedly soar. Most ambitious people who formally retire dont suddenly kill the engine and mothball the vehicle. They stay active doing volunteer work or consulting, pursuing hobbies and activities, even starting businesses. Biden could easily enjoy a rewarding and productive retirement, in the Jimmy Carter model. He could return to teaching at the University of Pennsylvania. He could write another book or two. He could help his troubled son Hunter rebuild his life with less of the relentless scrutiny and outright hate that attends public figures. Republican Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah, whos 76, recently announced hell leave the Senate when his current term expires in early 2025. At the end of another term I'd be in my mid-80s, Romney said. Frankly it's time for a new generation of leaders." Why does Romney see that, but Biden doesnt? Out with the old: Senator Mitt Romney (R-UT). (AFP) Some analysts think Biden views himself as uniquely able to beat Donald Trump, again, if Trump ends up being the Republican nominee in 2024, despite facing four criminal cases involving 91 separate charges. This seems backward. A younger Democrat with the chops to win the partys nomination would be able to claim that the 77-year-old Trump is himself too old to be an effective president. A Democratic candidate 20 or 30 years younger than Trump would neuter the age issue for Democrats and make it solely a Republican problem. But who? Thats the other Democratic conundrum. Vice President Kamala Harris seems like a very weak heir apparent, given that her own presidential campaign flatlined in 2020 and she hasnt distinguished herself as veep. But there are other possibilities, and besides, keeping fresh blood on the bench because you dont think they can win is self-defeating. As the US military knows, you develop new leaders by letting them lead, not by asking them to remain forever in the shadow of institutional eminences. Americans clearly want a new generation of leadership. Biden is an ideal position to say, "I hear you, and as the oldest president ever, I understand its my job to usher the first Gen Xer or even the first millennial to the White House." Then he can use his newfound popularity and boundless energy to campaign for a Democratic nominee who can speak to younger Americans as if he or she is actually one of them. Rick Newman is a senior columnist for Yahoo Finance. Follow him on Twitter at @rickjnewman. Click here for politics news related to business and money Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance Five Americans freed from Iranian detention on Monday are on their way back to the United States after initially stopping in Doha, Qatar, according to a US official and a source familiar with the matter. The five, all of whom had been designated as wrongfully detained, were freed as part of a wider deal that includes the US unfreezing $6 billion in Iranian funds. The release of the Americans brings to an end a yearslong nightmare for those who had been detained. Three of those who are part of the deal Emad Shargi, Morad Tahbaz and Siamak Namazi had all been imprisoned for more than five years. Namazi had been detained since 2015. The identities of the other two Americans are not publicly known. Siamak Namazis mother, Effie Namazi, and Morad Tahbazs wife, Vida Tahbaz who were previously unable to leave Iran were also on the flight from Iran to Doha, a senior Biden administration official said. US citizens Siamak Namazi, second from left, and Morad Tahbaz, right, are embraced after disembarking from a jet in Doha, Qatar, on Monday, September 18. - AFP/Getty Images They were flown out of Tehran on a Qatari government jet to Doha on Monday afternoon local time, before taking off for the Washington, DC, area to be reunited with their families, the senior administration official said. In a statement Monday, President Joe Biden celebrated the release of the five Americans after enduring years of agony, uncertainty, and suffering. Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home, Biden wrote in the statement released shortly before the Americans were scheduled to land in Doha. Their release represents a significant diplomatic breakthrough after years of complicated indirect negotiations between the US and Iran, who do not have formal diplomatic ties. A senior Biden administration official said the deal has not changed our relationship with Iran in any way, noting the US would still work to hold Iran accountable for its human rights abuses and to constrain its nuclear program. In his statement, Biden thanked partners at home and abroad for their tireless efforts to help us achieve this outcome, including the Governments of Qatar, Oman, Switzerland, and South Korea. Mondays release the latest high-profile deal negotiated by the Biden administration to secure the release of Americans deemed wrongly detained abroad following the release of Americans from Russia and Venezuela was met with criticism from some Republicans, who likened it to a ransom payment. Call your family members and let them know that youre OK The overall contours of the deal began to crystallize in Doha about seven months ago after years of indirect negotiations. The first tangible public steps under the deal took place about five weeks ago, when four of the Americans were transferred into house arrest. The fifth American was already under house arrest. In the weeks following the move to house arrest, the Swiss ambassador to Iran made regular visits to the Americans to check on their conditions, the senior administration official said. Switzerland serves as the US protecting power in Iran since the US does not have a diplomatic presence there. And in the days leading up to the release, the US government had carefully sketched out the logistics of how things would go, with the caveat that things could always change, officials familiar with the matter said. Once the plane arrived in Doha, a senior State Department official said there would be medical personnel on the ground to meet the freed Americans. They would also be on the plane back to the US. And were going to be handing them government phones and and telling them: Go ahead and call your family members and let them know that youre OK, and that youre coming back, the official said. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he spoke with the seven Americans freed from Iran when they landed in Doha in what he called an emotional conversation. Today, their freedom, the freedom of these Americans for so long unjustly imprisoned and detained in Iran means some pretty basic things: it means that husbands and wives, fathers and children, grandparents can hug each other again, can see each other again, can be with each other again, Blinken said. The family of Emad Sharghi said in a statement that they were able to speak with him in a very short conservation, but he sounded excited and optimistic. They also spoke with Biden by phone, who told them that he started the effort to free these Americans when he first took office and wishes that it could have been brought to this happy conclusion earlier but hes very happy it got there today, according to the statement. A US official said Biden spoke with all of the families. The family of Morad and Vida Tahbaz said they were are overjoyed and relieved to have their loved ones finally free. We are grateful to President Biden and his Administration for making the difficult but necessary decision to prioritize the lives of American citizens over politics. Thank you for leading with courage and compassion, the family said in a statement to CNN. And Siamak Namazi, who had been detained since 2015, said in a statement, For almost eight years I have been dreaming of this day. Now that it is finally here, I find my ineffable joy of my forthcoming reunification with my family is laced with sorrow a painful and deep feeling of guilt for taking my breaths in freedom while so many courageous individuals that I love and admire continue languishing behind those walls, he said. Once the freed Americans return to the US, they will have the option to participate in a Department of Defense Program known as PISA (Post Isolation Support Activities) to help them acclimate back to normal life, officials said. $6 billion transfer of funds Under the agreement between the US and Iran, $6 billion in Iranian funds that had been held in restricted accounts in South Korea was transferred to restricted accounts in banks in Qatar. Iranian and US officials were notified by Qatar on Monday that the transfer had taken place, according to a source briefed on details of the matter. Sources told CNN the funds came from oil sales that were allowed and placed into accounts set up under the Trump administration. Biden administration officials have stressed that the funds that have been transferred to the accounts in Qatar can be used by Iran only for humanitarian purchases and that each transaction will be monitored by the US Treasury Department. We are implementing this arrangement through the establishment of what we are calling the humanitarian channel in Qatar, which is designed to protect against money laundering and misuse of the funds, the first senior administration official said. The agreement also involves the release of five Iranians in US custody. The first senior administration official noted that two of the five Iranians had served a majority of their sentences; the other three were awaiting trial and had not yet been convicted. According to the Iranian Foreign Ministry, two of the Iranians were returning to Iran, one was expected to leave for another country, and the other two were expected to remain in the US. Those who are remaining in the US do not pose a national security risk, US officials said. The Iranians that are being released as part of this are small potatoes, a senior State Department official said. There are some big, big fish that the Iranians want out of our judicial system that theyve asked for for some time. Weve been engaged in difficult and principled negotiations for a long time and out of that process, theyre not getting anybody that they really care about. A really good deal The first senior State Department official said the Biden administration feels it has a really good deal. We feel like were going to get these Americans out on terms that are good both for them as well as for the American people, so were moving forward with this, the official explained, adding that they believe the US got the better end of the stick in this deal. Senior administration officials would not discuss when Biden signed off on the deal. Brett McGurk, White House coordinator for the Middle East and North Africa, said Monday that the Biden administration had been engaged in negotiations to get the five Americans released since the earliest weeks of our administration. We had standards of what we would accept, and what we would not accept, and really over the last six months, that process intensified. We had very intense negotiations in Doha in Qatar were very grateful to Qatar, and also to Oman, for helping to facilitate this and when the arrangement came together on terms that we could accept, based on the standards that we always said we would accept, the president made the difficult, but the right decision to move ahead, he told CNNs Jake Tapper on The Lead. Former Vice President Mike Pence under whose tenure the White House made two prisoner swap deals with Tehran criticized Biden in a speech Monday afternoon for allowing Iran to foment terrorism across the Middle East. The senior administration official pushed back on the criticism, saying, These are some of the most difficult decisions a president makes, but I think this deal stands up. When you look at the full contours of the deal, compared with the alternative the alternative is these Americans never come home. So I think it very much holds up, they said. US issuing new sanctions on Tehran over Bob Levinson Following the release of the five Americans, the US issued new sanctions against Iran targeting Tehrans Ministry of Intelligence and former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, senior administration officials said, seeking to punish them for a lack of answers around Bob Levinson, an American detained in Iran for more than a decade who is believed to have died there. Well never give up on Bob Levinsons case, one senior administration official said. We cant emphasize strongly enough that the Iranian regime must finally come clean, allow for Bob Levinson to be at peace, and for the Levinson family to have answers. We will continue to call on Iran to give a full accounting of what happened to Bob Levinson, from his initial captivity to his ultimate murder, a second senior administration official said. The Levinson family said in a statement that they welcomed the news of the release of the Americans and the new sanctions, but make no mistake: Todays good news does not end our familys nightmare and ongoing pain. Nor does it mask or excuse the shameful cruelty and unending lies of the Iranian regime. We will never stop demanding that Iranian leaders answer for what happened to Robert Levinson, the greatest man we have ever known, they said. The actions announced today with the full force of the U.S. government behind them are a welcome step toward justice for Bob Levinson, and they are by no means the last. We will not rest until the cruel Iranian regime is held fully accountable, and our father knows true peace, they said. This story has been updated with additional developments. CNNs Jack Forrest, Michael Conte and Joshua Replogle contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com DOHA, Qatar Five Americans wrongfully imprisoned in Iran for years were released Monday as part of a prisoner exchange agreement that gives Tehran access to $6 billion in oil revenues frozen under U.S. sanctions. A plane carrying the five Americans and two of their relatives touched down in Qatar, which had helped broker the swap. After the Americans walked down the steps from the plane at the Doha airport, they were greeted on the tarmac by Qatari and U.S. officials. At one point, former prisoners Siamak Namazi, Morad Tahbaz and Emad Shargi walked together arm-in-arm. A few hours later, the freed Americans boarded a U.S. government plane bound for Washington, D.C., according to a senior diplomat in the region briefed on their whereabouts. Five Iranian nationals held in U.S. custody were also expected to be released as part of the deal. NBC News first reported on the prisoner swap negotiations in February. U.S. citizens, from left, Emad Sharqi and Morad Tahbaz Siamak Namazi disembark from a Qatari jet upon their arrival at the Doha International Airport on Sept. 18, 2023. (Karim Jaafar / AFP - Getty Images) Days before the Americans were released, Republican lawmakers in Washington blasted the deal, saying it amounted to a ransom payment and would only encourage Iran to imprison more foreigners. A similar 2015 arrangement during the Obama administration, in which Iran was given access to blocked funds at the same time Americans held in Iran were freed, also came under fierce criticism then from Republicans as a capitulation to Tehran. But families of the freed Americans say their loved ones were hostages taken captive on false charges and used as bargaining chips by the Iranian government. The families and some former hostages say the Biden administration had to use the leverage it had available to secure the freedom of the imprisoned U.S. citizens, or face the prospect of the Americans staying incarcerated indefinitely. Past presidents, including Donald Trump, engaged in prisoner swaps, as well. A spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry said Monday that of the five Iranians released as part of the swap, two planned to return to Iran, one was headed to a third country and two others intended to remain in the U.S., where they have legal residence. In a statement, President Joe Biden said, "Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home. ... I am grateful to our partners at home and abroad for their tireless efforts to help us achieve this outcome, including the Governments of Qatar, Oman, Switzerland, and South Korea." "As we celebrate the return of these Americans," Biden said, "we also remember those who did not return. I call on the Iranian regime to give a full account of what happened to Bob Levinson. The Levinson family deserves answers." Levinson was a former DEA and FBI agent taken prisoner by Iran in 2007 and presumed to have died in captivity prior to March 25, 2020. On Monday, Biden said he was sanctioning former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and the Iranian Ministry of Intelligence under the Levinson Act "for their involvement in wrongful detentions. And, we will continue to impose costs on Iran for their provocative actions in the region." He also reminded U.S. citizens of the risks involved in traveling to Iran: "American passport holders should not travel there." Secretary of State Antony Blinken also announced that the U.S. was taking steps to impose visa restrictions "on three Iranian government officials believed to be responsible for or complicit in serious abuses or violations of human rights, as well as hostage-taking or wrongful, arbitrary, or otherwise unjust detention of U.S. and foreign nationals." Image: Baquer and Siamak Namazi (Courtesy Babak Namazi) One of the Americans who landed in Doha on Monday, Siamak Namazi, 51, had been imprisoned in Iran for almost eight years longer than any of the other current American detainees. A graduate of White Plains High School in New York and a business consultant with degrees from Tufts and Rutgers universities, he was arrested in 2015 and convicted of espionage in a trial that only lasted a few hours. His father, Baquer Namazi, was arrested in 2016 when he traveled to Iran to visit his son. The elder Namazi was released last year. After his release, Namazi issued a statement through his lawyer thanking all those who did not allow the world to forget about me, but said his elation was tinged with sadness for those who remain behind bars in Iran. For almost eight years I have been dreaming of this day. Now that it is finally here, I find my ineffable joy of my forthcoming reunification with my family is laced with sorrow a painful and deep feeling of guilt for taking my breaths in freedom while so many courageous individuals that I love and admire continue languishing behind those walls, he said. All the political prisoners, and indeed, the entire populace of Iran, where the indomitable courage of women leaves us in awe, deserve their liberty, he added. Emad Shargi. (United for Iran) Emad Shargi, 59, an Iranian-born businessman from Washington, D.C., who moved to the U.S. as a young man, was arrested in April 2018. He was released on bail and cleared of all charges in December 2019, but Iranian authorities refused to return his passport. He was charged again in 2020 and convicted of espionage charges without a trial. His sister Neda said in a statement, "My family is so happy to hear that Emad is no longer in Iran and is on his way home. We have been waiting for this day for almost five and a half years and I cant wait to hug my brother and never let him go. This day would not be possible if President Biden had not shown the kind of leadership it takes to make hard decisions and bring our families home." "This is my brother, not an abstract policy." Roxanne Tahbaz holds a picture of her father Morad Tahbaz during a protest (Stefan Rousseau / PA Images via Getty Images file) Morad Tahbaz, 67, an Iranian American who also holds British citizenship, was arrested in January 2018 and convicted of espionage in 2019. Tahbaz was part of a group of environmental activists carrying out research on Irans endangered cheetah population. U.S. officials said the families of the two other Americans released requested that their names remain private. Human rights groups say Iran has been engaged in hostage-taking for decades, using foreign prisoners as a tool to exert leverage over other governments. Rights groups also say the espionage charges against the American prisoners were without foundation. Iran denies the accusation and says all prisoners are treated in accordance with the countrys laws. Darian Dalili speaks with a woman outside the White House (Andrew Caballero-Reynolds / AFP via Getty Images file) The prisoner exchange did not include two U.S. legal permanent residents with green cards who remained behind bars in Tehran. One of them, Shahab Dalili, was arrested and imprisoned in 2016 while visiting Tehran for his fathers funeral, according to his family. His wife and children are U.S. citizens living in Virginia. His son recently held a sit-in for days outside the State Department, demanding his father be included in the swap. Jamshid Sharmahd, a software developer living in California, was kidnapped in 2020 during a stopover in the United Arab Emirates and taken to Iran, according to his family. He is a German citizen and is now facing the death penalty on charges of corruption on earth. But his family says he merely advocated for democracy in Iran. The prisoner exchange was the culmination of difficult negotiations over a period of years in which the U.S. flat out rejected some Iranian demands, a senior administration official told reporters earlier. When the opportunity came together after pretty principled, persistent diplomacy," the official said, "thats when we chose to move forward." Image: (Lujain Jo / AP) A senior State Department official said, We feel like we have a really good deal. This is going to get these Americans home. This is going to get these Americans reunited with their loved ones. U.S. officials said they had no confidence that Iran would stop detaining Americans or other foreigners, and that was why they were issuing stark warnings against any travel to Iran. To be blunt, no American should travel to Iran for any reason, the official said. The senior administration official said that the prisoner exchange would not fundamentally alter Americas tense relations with Iran. Importantly, this deal does not change our relationship with Iran in any way. Iran is an adversary and a state sponsor of terrorism. We will hold them accountable wherever possible, the official said. The official noted that as recently as Friday, the administration introduced new sanctions against Iranian state media, officials and other entities that the U.S. says contribute to the repression of the Iranian people. The new sanctions coincided with the first anniversary of the death of Mahsa Amini, a young Kurdish woman who died in police custody and whose death triggered a wave of anti-regime protests. The official also defended the terms of the deal, saying that the funds unblocked by the U.S. are not taxpayer dollars but Iranian oil revenues that Tehran would only be permitted to use for medicine, food or other humanitarian purchases. Qatar would oversee the funds under strict rules, the official added. And the Treasury Department will monitor the transactions as well from the account managed by Qatar. U.S. officials have warned that Washington is prepared to freeze the funds again if Iran violates U.S. sanctions. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, however, told NBC News' Lester Holt in an exclusive interview that Tehran will decide how to spend the $6 billion. Asked if the money would be used for other purposes apart from humanitarian needs, he said: Humanitarian means whatever the Iranian people needs, so this money will be budgeted for those needs, and the needs of the Iranian people will be decided and determined by the Iranian government. He added that the money will be spent wherever we need it. Namazi expressed heartfelt gratitude to Biden and his administration for making what he called the tough decisions to secure his release and his fellow American prisoners. And he urged the president to lead an international effort to impose severe costs on Iran and other states that engage in hostage taking. Over the past 44 years, the Iranian regime has mastered the nasty game of caging innocent Americans and other foreign nationals, and commercializing their freedom. By now Evin Prison is virtually a dystopian United Nations of Hostages, he said. It is only if the free world finally agrees to collectively impose draconian consequences on those who use human lives as mere bargaining chips, that the Iranian regime and its ilk will be compelled to make different choices, he said. For the moment, Namazi asked that he be given time to become re-acquainted with liberty after 2,898 days in prison, and said he planned to take care of health issues and spend time with family and loved ones. One of his priorities, Namazi said, was to experience nature again after so many years behind bars. I want to see foliage instead of walls and wardens. I want to lay back on the grass, with the warm sun on my face, and gaze up at the open blue skies. Namazi also said he was eager to visit an Apple store to replace the devices his captors had seized and see what was now available: I am dying to find out what gadgets now exist. What This Website Is All About This website has no "official" connection to the Pet Shop Boys. It merely presents my own personal commentaryoften including attempted explanations and interpretationson the songs of my favorite contemporary pop band. Of course, this commentary has often been influenced by what the Pet Shop Boys themselves, Chris Lowe and Neil Tennant, have said about their music and by what others have previously written. Nevertheless, many of the observations I make here are original with me. By no means am I suggesting that these are the "only" or "correct" interpretations. In fact, it's typical of great art, even great pop art, to lend itself to multiple interpretations. It's part of what makes it great. And I do consider the Pet Shop Boys to be the creators of great pop art. So you can take or leave my interpretations as you wish. If you disagree, please don't take offense. Rather, enjoy the fact that we're both fans of music rich enough to invite different interpretations. Despite my best efforts, I have no doubt that I'm guilty of at least some factual errors. I recognize this fact and apologize in advance for any that may have slipped past me. I'll certainly correct any errors that come to my attention. This website will be most attractive and legible when viewed on a full screen at a resolution of at least 1024 x 768 pixels. But resolution much higher than that may result in the text being too small for your reading comfort; if you find that to be the case, you may wish to use your browser's zoom-in capabilities. In addition, this site makes extensive use of javascript; if your browser program isn't configured to use javascript or activescript, some features will not work properly. This site was originally posted on March 16, 2001, and was most recently revised on October 29, 2023. Honored by Yahoo! as a "Pick of the Week" (April 9, 2001) and a "2001 Pick of the Year" (December 31, 2001) Wayne Studer is the author of Rock on the Wild Side (1994: Leyland Publications). Number of home page hits since March 16, 2001: All text on this website aside from direct quotations (such as of lyrics and of other nonoriginal content) is copyright 2001-2023 by Wayne Studer. All Rights Reserved. All lyrics and images are copyright their respective dates by their respective owners. Brief quotations and small, low-resolution images are used for identification and critical commentary, thereby constituting Fair Use under U.S. copyright law. If, however, the owners of any copyrighted items object to their use on this site, I will immediately remove the pertinent items upon request and verification. Billboard chart data are copyright their respective dates by Nielsen Business Media, Inc. A note on attribution: I don't mind when other writers, either online or elsewhere, use the ideas I express here. That's one of the reason this website exists. Ideally they will cite me as the source of those ideas or otherwise attribute them to me. That's wonderful, and I greatly appreciate it. If they don't, however, that's unfortunate but forgivable. After all, people don't own ideas. What does annoy me tremendously is when other writers use my writing more or less verbatimoften my exact wording, though sometimes with only very minor adjustmentsthereby essentially quoting me, but without crediting me as the original writer. People do own the specific ways in which they express their ideas. If you're going to quote me, please credit me. It's the right, moral and, in fact, legal thing to do. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said Monday he's unsure a proposed short-term funding measure to avert a government shutdown for at least a month will have enough votes to pass. Members from both sides of the House Republican Conference on Sunday outlined a continuing resolution to keep the government open until Oct. 31, as well as a 8% funding cut to domestic agencies except for Veteran Affairs and the Pentagon spending and border security legislation. But it doesn't include some key sticking points such as $24 billion more in aid for Ukraine, which many conservative House Republicans oppose or $16 billion in supplemental disaster relief, making it likely dead on arrival in the Democrat-controlled Senate. There's also no guarantee it will pass the Republican-led House, as a growing number of Republican hard-liners voice their opposition to the deal. Many members in the House Freedom Caucus have said they won't vote for a continuing resolution unless it had conservative policies attached, such as language to address "woke policies" and "weaponization of the DOJ." Others have said they won't support any continuing resolution. "I don't know," McCarthy said Monday when asked if the measure will get across the finish line in his chamber. "This was a -- something devised by the bottom up. Let's see where it can get to." "It's a good thing I love a challenge," McCarthy continued when asked about its prospects in the Senate. "Everyday will be a challenge. We've got a long week. We are not at September 30th yet but I'll tell everybody I've never seen anybody win a shutdown. You only put the power in the administration," he said, adding "We have to get together, figure it out, and move forward." PHOTO: Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy talks to reporters as the arrives at the Capitol on Sept. 18, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) The short-term funding deal bargaining was led by GOP Reps. Dusty Johnson, House Freedom Caucus chair Scott Perry, Stephanie Bice, Chip Roy and Kelly Armstrong. "Congress must keep government open and secure the border. That's why we've worked with leaders of the House Freedom Caucus to introduce a 31-day continuing resolution laser-focused on fixing the crisis at our southern border," Johnson, Bice and Armstrong, of the Republican Main Street Caucus, said in a statement Sunday. "Over the next several days, we'll work together to build support for this CR, to pass the defense appropriations bill and to make progress on other appropriations bills that bend the curve on out-of-control spending," they added in their statement. The House will likely vote on this bill later this week. McCarthy can only afford to lose four Republican votes, but at least a dozen conservatives have signaled they would vote no on the measure. Rep. Victoria Spartz, R-Ind., issued a strong rebuke of the continuing resolution and of McCarthy in a statement on Monday, calling the speaker a "weak leader." "Unfortunately, real leadership takes courage and willingness to fight for the country, not for power and a picture on a wall," Spartz said. "The Republican House is failing the American people again and pursuing a path of gamesmanship and circus. Neither Republicans nor Democrats have the backbone to challenge our corrupt swamp that is bankrupting our children and grandchildren. Rep. Cory Miller tweeted out on X (formally known as Twitter), said he was a "HARD NO!" based on what he'd been hearing about the deal, noting he hadn't seen the finalized version. His statement continued: "I'm sick of the DC backroom deals to appease 61 in the Senate and not going to play this game. Our job is to fund the U.S. and take care of the American people. I was not elected by overseas interests like others. Enough is Enough!" Rep. Dan Bishop of North Carolina shared Mills' sentiment, tweeting: "I'm with Cory. No CR. Pass the damn approps bills. Roll back the crazy bureaucracy to pre-COVID levels. Now." Rep. Matt Rosendale of Montana tweeted: "For months, I have made it very clear that I will not be supporting a CR. And this week is no different." "A CR is a continuation of Nancy Pelosi's budget and Joe Biden's policies. We were assured in January that we weren't going to use the Democrats' gimmicks to fund government and that we would deliver the 12 appropriations bills, thereby funding government responsibly and transparently, which is why I will be voting against the CR this week," his statement on X concluded. GOP Reps. Andy Biggs of Arizona and Matt Gaetz of Florida also have said they'd vote against. McCarthy unsure if proposed short-term funding bill will pass as key sticking points remain originally appeared on abcnews.go.com WASHINGTON (AP) Hunter Biden sued the Internal Revenue Service on Monday, claiming that two agents publicly alleging tax-probe interference wrongly shared his personal information, a case that comes amid escalating legal and political struggles as the 2024 election looms. The agents targeted and sought to embarrass Mr. Biden" with the sharing of confidential tax information in press interviews and testimony before Congress, the suit said. His lawyers argue that whistleblower protections don't apply, but a lawyer for one agent said any confidential information released came under whistleblower authorization and called the suit a frivolous smear." The lawsuit marks the latest legal pushback from Biden as a long-running federal investigation into him unfolds against a sharply political backdrop. That includes an impeachment inquiry aimed at his father, President Joe Biden, seeking to tie him to his son's business dealings. Mr. Biden is the son of the President of the United States. He has all the same responsibilities as any other American citizen, and the IRS can and should make certain that he abides by those responsibilities, the suit states. Similarly, Mr. Biden has no fewer or lesser rights than any other American citizen, and no government agency or government agent" has free rein to violate his rights simply because of who he is. The suit says the IRS hasn't done enough to halt the airing of his personal information. It seeks to force compliance with federal tax and privacy laws and damages of $1,000 for every unauthorized disclosure. IRS supervisory special agent Greg Shapley, and a second agent, Joe Ziegler, have claimed there was a pattern of slow-walking investigative steps into Hunter Biden in testimony before Congress. They alleged that the prosecutor overseeing the investigation, Delaware U.S. Attorney David Weiss, didnt have full authority to bring charges in other jurisdictions. Weiss and the Justice Department have denied that. Shapley's lawyer called the lawsuit a frivolous smear that sought to intimidate any current and future whistleblowers. He didn't release confidential tax information except through legal whistleblower disclosures, his attorney said. "Once Congress released that testimony, like every American citizen, he has a right to discuss that public information. Ziegler's lawyer said he will continue to speak out about what he considers special treatment for Hunter Biden in the handling of the case. The GOP-controlled House Oversight Committee called the two men good people who did everything right to obtain whistleblower protection with the best interest of our country in mind, in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. The agents testified before the committee in July, and said their investigation will continue. The IRS declined to comment, citing the pending litigation. The White House, meanwhile, has said that Joe Biden was not involved in his sons business affairs, and months of investigations have so far not unearthed significant evidence of wrongdoing by the elder Biden, who spoke often to his son and as vice president did stop by a business dinner with his sons associates. The investigation into Hunter Biden dates back years, and he had been expected to strike a plea deal with prosecutors over the summer that included guilty pleas to misdemeanor charges of failing to pay his taxes on time. But that deal imploded during a July court hearing, and he was indicted days ago on federal firearms charges. He's accused of lying about his drug use to buy and briefly keep a gun in October 2018. Republicans investigating nearly every aspect of his business dealings had decried the plea agreement that spared him jail time as a sweetheart deal. Biden's defense attorneys have indicated they plan to fight the charges and the case could be on track toward a possible high-stakes trial. The new civil lawsuit filed in Washington alleges the improper disclosures included the specific tax years under investigation, deductions and allegations about liability. Weiss eventually sought and was granted special counsel status last month, giving him broad authority to investigate and report out his findings. His prosecutors have indicated they could file new tax charges in Washington or California. ___ Associated Press writer Fatima Hussein contributed to this report. NEW YORK (AP) Irans president on Monday denied his country had sent drones to Russia for use in the war in Ukraine, even as the United States accuses Iran of not only providing the weapons but helping Russia build a plant to manufacture them. We are against the war in Ukraine, President Ebrahim Raisi said as he met with media executives on the sidelines of the worlds premier global conference, the high-level leaders' meeting at the U.N. General Assembly. The Iranian leader spoke just hours after five Americans who had been held in Iranian custody arrived in Qatar, freed in a deal that saw President Joe Biden agree to unlock nearly $6 billion in frozen Iranian assets. Known as a hard-liner, Raisi seemingly sought to strike a diplomatic tone. He reiterated offers to mediate the Russia-Ukraine war despite being one of the Kremlins strongest backers. And he suggested that the just-concluded deal with the United States that led to the prisoner exchange and assets release could help build trust between the longtime foes. Raisi acknowledged that Iran and Russia have long had strong ties, including defense cooperation. But he denied sending weapons to Moscow since the war began. If they have a document that Iran gave weapons or drones to the Russians after the war," he said, then they should produce it. Iranian officials have made a series of contradictory comments about the drones. U.S. and European officials say the sheer number of Iranian drones being used in the war in Ukraine shows that the flow of such weapons has not only continued but intensified after hostilities began. Despite his remarks about trust, Raisi's tone toward the United States wasn't all conciliatory; he had harsh words at other moments. Raisi said his country sought good relations with all neighboring countries in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. We believe that if the Americans stop interfering in the countries of the Persian Gulf and other regions in the world, and mind their own business the situation of the countries and their relations will improve, Raisi said. The United Arab Emirates first sought to reengage diplomatically with Tehran after attacks on ships off their coasts that were attributed to Iran. Saudi Arabia, with Chinese mediation, reached a detente in March to re-establish diplomatic ties after years of tensions, including over the kingdoms war on Yemen, Riyadhs opposition to Syrian President Bashar Assad and fears over Irans nuclear program. Raisi warned other countries in the region not to get too close with U.S. ally Israel, saying: "The normalization of relations with the Zionist regime does not create security. As a prosecutor, Raisi took part in the 1988 mass executions that killed some 5,000 dissidents in Iran. The Iranian leader was dismissive of Western criticism of his country's treatment of women, its nuclear program and its crackdown on dissent, including over protests that began just over a year ago over the death in police custody last year of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Kurdish-Iranian woman arrested for allegedly violating Irans mandatory headscarf law. He compared the protests in Iran to labor strikes and demonstrations by ethnic minorities in the United States and Western Europe. He noted that many people are killed each year in the U.S. at the hands of police, and criticized the media for not focusing on those deaths as much as the treatment of demonstrators in his country. The deaths of Americans at the hands of police are widely covered in U.S. media. Raisi has sought, without evidence, to portray the popular nationwide demonstrations in Iran as a Western plot. The issue(s) of women, hijab, human rights and the nuclear issue," he said, are all pretexts by the Americans and Westerners to damage the Islamic republic as an independent country. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said that he is not ready to abandon the short-term government funding deal negotiated by members of the House Freedom Caucus and Main Street Caucus, despite warnings from multiple conservative members that they will oppose the deal. Have they read it? One thing I always know, sometimes they havent read all the way through it, McCarthy told CNN on Monday. Lets let them understand what it is and see where they are. On Sunday, CNN reported that a group of six Republican members three from the conservative House Freedom Caucus and three from the centrist-leaning Main Street Caucus worked through the weekend to finalize a tentative deal on a short-term spending plan that they hope will get buy-in from across the Republican conference. McCarthy can only afford to lose four votes on a continuing resolution deal without relying on Democratic votes which could put his speakership at risk. Several members tweeted their opposition to the deal on Sunday evening following its surfacing, including Reps. Eli Crane of Arizona, Cory Mills of Florida, Matt Gaetz of Florida and Dan Bishop of North Carolina. McCarthy again dismissed concerns that he is worried about being ousted by his right flank. I am not worried about that, he told CNNs Manu Raju on Monday. Pressed on how this deal still would not be able to pass the Senate, even if they somehow get enough votes to pass it in the House, McCarthy replied, Its a good thing I love a challenge, because every day will be a challenge. Were not on September 30th yet. Government funding is slated to run out on September 30. Speaking to reporters later Monday, McCarthy said his plan is to walk members through the stopgap deal to reach consensus to avert a shutdown. When pressed on how he will wrangle his raucous conference to get onboard with funding the government, he lamented that everything is difficult. Its hard to pass anything in this place. We started out in a five-seat majority. I got one member whos now resigned, weve got a couple of members who are out as well. Anything we do is pretty tough, he told reporters. McCarthy also said a potential shutdown would slow down House Republicans efforts to gather information and build their case for the impeachment of President Joe Biden. If the government shuts down it would slow that part, yeah, McCarthy admitted when asked repeatedly if the impeachment inquiry could be impacted by a potential shutdown. The agreement, according to GOP sources familiar with the matter who spoke with CNN on Sunday, would pair a 31-day continuing resolution with a House GOP-passed border security package, but without the bills provisions on E-Verify, a national immigration status database. The short-term spending bill also would impose some spending cuts instead of keeping the government funded at current levels. While the departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs would be maintained at funding levels, other agencies would face a roughly 8% cut. The bill does not include the White House request for $40 billion in supplemental funding for natural disasters and the war in Ukraine, which Senate leaders in both parties want attached to any temporary funding bill. On Monday, McCarthy said that he plans to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky when he comes to the Capitol this week, though he has no plans for Zelensky to brief the House Republican Conference. Across the Capitol, leadership from both parties in the Senate have invited the president to an all-Senate meeting, as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell push for Ukraine aid. However, McCarthy told reporters, no, when asked if Ukraine aid will be added to government funding legislation in the House. He also defended his decision not to include supplemental funding for disaster relief in any funding legislation, arguing that if they pass stopgap legislation it will refund FEMAs Disaster Relief Fund with $20 billion. That would go to the disasters in those states Florida, California, Vermont, Hawaii, theyd be able to have those resources, McCarthy said. Asked if hed spoken with Senate leadership about their efforts to fund the government, McCarthy said he spoke with McConnell at the end of last week, after Senate attempts to advance their version of three appropriations bills hit a snag when Republican Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin objected to expediting the process. I talked to McConnell after the Senate had failed last week. I talked to them to see where they were going as well, he told CNN. It seems like everybodys in a tough spot. Nothings easy. This story has been updated with additional developments. CNNs Haley Talbot, Manu Raju, Lauren Fox and Melanie Zanona contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Republican firebrand Lauren Boebert has come under fire from her own party after she and her date were caught on video fondling each other in a crowded theater last weekend before being kicked out. Footage captured the Colorado congresswomans heavy petting with her rumoured boyfriend as they attend a showing of Beetlejuice in Denver on 10 September. The pair were ejected for causing a disturbance. Several within her own party criticised the lawmakers behaviour as hypocritical, given her opposition to LGBTQ+ rights, like furthering claims that drag performances will expose children to lewd sexual acts. She wrote last June, Take your children to CHURCH, not drag bars. She lectures everyone about the LGBT community being a threat to children while getting caught performing a lewd sex act in a public theatre where children possibly were, Meghan McCain wrote on X. This is family values? This is why people think the GOP are all hypocrites. Ann Coulter reacted to the footage, writing: Totally embarrassing bimbo. She added, Cant Colorado find SOME Republican not trashy and stupid to represent them in the 3rd congressional district? Former Virginia representative Denver Riggleman wrote sarcastically, Lauren Boebert seems a bit confused about Freedom Caucus members telling her to reach across the aisle. Conservative talk show host Erick Erickson also chimed in: Excuse it all you wantshe behaved badly, denied it till exposure, and theres no excuse except tribally. Ms Boebert had previously denied that the incident ever took place until the footage was released, which also captured the congresswoman vaping, singing, and taking flash photos during the show. She took to social media to issue an apology: The past few days have been difficult and humbling, and Im truly sorry for the unwanted attention my Sunday evening in Denver has brought to the community. While none of my actions or words as a private citizen that night were intended to be malicious or meant to cause harm, the reality is they did and I regret that. Ms Boebert continued, Theres no perfect blueprint for going through a public and difficult divorce, which over the past few months has made for a challenging personal time for me and my entire family. Ive tried to handle it with strength and grace as best I can, but I simply fell short of my values on Sunday. Thats unacceptable and Im sorry. The lawmaker filed for divorce from her husband of 18 years, Jayson Boebert, and in June she announced that she became a grandmother at the age of 36 after her 17-year-old son had a child with his girlfriend. She reiterated her message on OAN on Sunday: I was a little too eccentric. Im very known for having an animated personality. She said she was laughing, singing and having a fantastic time at the show. Im on the edge of a lot of things, the Colorado Republican said. BEIJING (Reuters) - China has complained to Germany after its foreign minister labelled President Xi Jinping a "dictator", the Chinese foreign ministry said on Monday, calling the title "absurd" and an "open political provocation". German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock made the remarks in a live interview with Fox News last week when asked about Russia's war on Ukraine. "If Putin were to win this war, what sign would that be for other dictators in the world, like Xi, like the Chinese president?" she said. Mao Ning, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, said Baerbock's remarks were "extremely absurd" and infringed on China's political dignity. "They are an open political provocation," Mao told a regular press briefing, adding that China had complained to Germany. Baerbock is an outspoken critic of China. In August, she said China posed a challenge to the "fundamentals of how we live together in this world". Earlier, she described aspects of a trip to China as "more than shocking" and said Beijing was increasingly becoming more of a systemic rival than a trade partner. In June, U.S. President Joe Biden also called Xi a "dictator" a day after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken concluded a visit to China aimed at stabilising ties. (Reporting by Liz Lee, Ethan Wang and Bernard Orr; Editing by Jacqueline Wong and Miral Fahmy) Former President Trump with Kristen Welker in an interview that aired on "Meet the Press." The journalist took over as moderator of the NBC show on Sunday. (William B. Plowman / NBC) Meet the Press premiered Sunday morning with a new moderator, a former president and a disturbingly familiar pattern of mainstream media normalizing extremist chicanery for ratings. Kristen Welker, NBC News co-chief White House correspondent, sat down with the Republican front-runner for president for a segment that was teased as Donald Trumps "first network interview since leaving office, a tame descriptor for someone who's been indicted on numerous felonies involving efforts to overturn the 2020 election and whos been found liable of sexual assault in a civil trial since losing the White House to Joe Biden. But the television event also highlighted a problem that traditional news outlets have faced since Trump emerged as a potent figure on the political scene in 2016. Treating the former reality TV star like any other presidential candidate or victor before him assumes that hes playing by the same set of rules as his predecessors. News flash: Hes not. One storming of the U.S. Capitol and four indictments later, its clear that interview dynamic that Meet the Press has employed since Harry Truman was in office does not work in 2023. At least for folks who would actually like to see a substantive conversation or grilling of past or future leaders. Read more:Commentary: The way TV news covers Trump's legal problems could make or break democracy Sundays new chapter of Meet the Press set the stage for the interview with an opener mentioning impeachment, the presidents legal troubles and how his questionable dealings with family members might affect his chances in the 2024 election. But they were talking about President Biden, not Trump. The set-up validated long-held complaints of bothside-ism in legacy journalism, when an issue between opposing beliefs is presented as more balanced than evidence supports. The shows producers surely saw this as an opportunity to showcase the skills of Chuck Todds successor, to prove that she could hold her own against a notoriously difficult interview subject. Todd announced last week that he was leaving his post after nine years of hosting the public affairs talk show, though he remains with NBC News. Welker is the first Black journalist to moderate "Meet the Press," the longest running show on television. Trumps camp likely saw it as a chance to reach viewers beyond his loyal Fox News constituency, normalizing a troubled candidate for a wary electorate. But its doubtful that Sundays show moved the needle one way or another. There was no chance at arriving at any sort of shared truth in response to Welkers questions about abortion policy, Ukraine, China, the storage of classified documents or his involvement in a deadly Jan. 6 insurrection. Trump steamrolled over his interviewer, attacking his opponents with a barrage of insults while pushing the narratives he wants to push. To her credit, Welker did better at challenging him than most of her peers, including Chris Wallace and Megyn Kelly. She pressed him on federal versus state bans on abortion, his slow response to the Jan. 6 attack and whether if he were elected again, he would send troops to Taiwan if China were to invade. There were no great revelations in his answers but plenty of bluster about Florida Gov. Ron DeSanctimonious DeSantis and the "deranged, lunatic prosecutor" whom he says targeted him. Welker asked about Russian President Vladimir Putins praise of him after Trump criticized Biden's handling of the Russia-Ukraine war, arguing that if he were in office, he would quickly put an end to the conflict. In an earlier report, NBC News covered Putin's praise of Trump at the Eastern Economic Forum in Russia last week, where he said, "We surely hear that Mr. Trump says he will resolve all burning issues within several days, including the Ukrainian crisis. We cannot help but feel happy about it." Trump's response, "Well, I like that he said that, because that means what I'm saying is right." Although Trump's admiration for Putin shined bright, he toned down his combative nature for the pretaped interview. Instead of charging at his questioner and silencing her with bully tactics, he complained that Welker was cutting him off and not allowing him to finish his thoughts. Quite a comment coming from the King of Interrupters. Read more:Commentary: Mugshots from Georgia and the first GOP debate upstage Trumps predictable interview with Carlson He responded to harder questions with untruths that may have shocked us seven years ago but that are par for the course now. What did you do when the Capitol was attacked? asked Welker. Nancy Pelosi was in charge of security," he claimed. She turned down 10,000 soldiers. If she hadnt, the attack wouldnt have happened. Nancy Pelosi didnt have the authority, you did, pressed Welker. Pelosi is responsible for Jan. 6, insisted Trump. It was futile in the moment to correct the outright lies, so Welker did so before commercial breaks. A bit of context here on Mr. Trump's allegations. He ordered troops in the days leading up to the Jan. 6 attack. The Defense Department says the former president never gave a formal order to have 10,000 troops ready to be deployed to the Capitol. Of course, its unreasonable to blame former Speaker Pelosi or lawmakers on Capitol Hill for what happened that day. Pelosi's office said at the time that the claim that she turned down troops was quote 'completely made up.' The sit-down may prove to be a ratings boon for the network, and perhaps even further boost Welkers career, but it failed to cut through the usual low-information bluster of past interviews with the former president. Trump was Trump. Legacy media was legacy media. But somewhere in between is the high-stakes story of ratings versus journalistic responsibility and the dangers that dance presents to our democracy. Sign up for L.A. Goes Out, a weekly newsletter about exploring and experiencing Los Angeles from the L.A. Times. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Former Bank of England governor Mark Carney has launched a blistering attack on Liz Truss accusing her of turning Britain into Argentina on the Channel. Mr Carney said the former prime minister who has launched her own attack on Rishi Sunaks government had a basic misunderstanding of what drives economies. The ex-Bank chief, governor between 2013 and 2020, spoke out against Brexit and populists on the right during a speech in his native Canada. He said they were in the demolition business and had treated tax cuts as a Pavlovian reaction to every problem. Mr Carney added: It meant when Brexiteers tried to create Singapore on the Thames, the Truss government instead delivered Argentina on the Channel. Argentinas ongoing financial crisis has seen some of the highest interest rates in the world, topping a staggering 70 per cent, while Singapore is seen as a model of economic success with one of the highest GDPs in the world. Ms Truss later lashed out at former the Bank of England governor, saying he was defensive about his role in the 25-year economic consensus that has led to low growth across the Western world. The spat came as Ms Truss used the one-year anniversary of his disastrous mini-Budget to attack the anti-growth coalition and urge the Sunak government to cut taxes, shrink welfare spending and raise the retirement age. The former PM booted out of No 10 by her own party after just six weeks called on the Tory party to embrace free market ideologies and ditch some green commitments amid cost of living pressures. Ms Truss began her speech at the Institute for Government by joking about having a rather more relaxing September than I did last year, before making repeated plugs for her upcoming book. Liz Truss with her chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng (Reuters) Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner replied on Twitter/X: Sadly most families across Britain are having a somewhat more stressful time because of what the Tories did to our economy by enabling your leadership. Ms Truss did not express regret about the consequences of her doomed package of 45bn of tax cuts last year claiming it would only have made a marginal difference to the deficit. I admit the communication wasnt as good as I would want it to be, she said in the Q&A after her speech. Despite sparking turmoil by failing to convince the market she could balance the books, Ms Truss also rejected claims her tax cuts were unfunded during the speech. This is not a fair or accurate description, she said. She also claimed that Mr Sunaks government has spent 35bn more than she would have as prime minister, arguing that if the policies included in her growth plan had been followed, growth would have eventually been higher. Ms Truss said she felt pressured by the Bank of England into committing to a counterproductive U-turn on her tax plans, the former Tory premier said. She also admitted she had never heard of the liability-driven investment (LDI) pension funds that were hit by her mini-Budget until after the economic crisis struck. Asked about Mr Carneys comments, she said: Politicians should be held accountable and responsible for what we do, but when there are people with significant power, you know, I dont feel that the same questions are necessarily asked about them. Conor Burns, the former Tory minister who was a close ally of Boris Johnson, said Ms Truss was now toxic with voters and a drag anchor to the right. Only service she could provide is sustained silence, he tweeted. Former PM Liz Truss left office after only six weeks (PA Archive) Former top Treasury official Rupert Harrison, the chief of staff to George Osborne when he was chancellor, said on Twitter/X that Ms Truss had a brass neck in giving advice to Mr Sunak. Mr Harrison running for as the Tory candidate in Bicester and Woodstock said it was remarkable there was still no genuine acknowledgment of the real mistakes that were made, adding: Happily, nobody in the Conservative party or the government is listening. Labour is calling on Mr Sunak to block Ms Truss resignation honour list, with the ex-PM believed to put around 14 names forward. In a letter to Mr Sunak, Jonathan Ashworth, Labours shadow paymaster general, said that if the honours were accepted those who crashed the economy would be receiving an award for their service. Ms Truss former chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng has said she was not wired to be prime minister, as the former chancellor turned on his old boss on the anniversary of their mini-Budget disaster. I love her dearly, shes a great person, very sincere and honest, he told the Telegraphs political editor in a new book. But if it hadnt been the mini-Budget, she would have blown up on something else. The former chancellor added: I just dont think her temperament was right. She was just not wired to be a prime minister. A commercial ship was "forcibly seized" by Iran's Revolutionary Guards on Thursday in international seas in the Gulf, and the ship may have been used for smuggling, according to a U.S. report. a spokeswoman for the Navy. According to Commander Tim Hawkins, spokesman for the U.S. 5th Fleet, the U.S. Navy has assessed the situation and decided against taking any more action, as reported by Reuters. Around 59 nautical miles northeast of the port city of Dammam in Saudi Arabia, the Iranian military made an effort to board a small tanker flying the Tanzanian flag, according to the British maritime security company Ambrey. According to the Navy, an Iranian naval ship approached the Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker TRF Moss in international waters in the Gulf of Oman around 01:00 local time (21:00 GMT). The statement added that the Navy had deployed surveillance resources, including maritime patrol aircraft. "The Iranian vessel departed the scene when U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul arrived on station," the statement read. The oil tanker Richmond Voyager, flying the flag of the Bahamas, reportedly made a distress call to the Navy around three hours later while passing international seas more than 20 miles (32 km) off the coast of Muscat, Oman. According to a Navy statement, "another Iranian naval vessel had closed within one mile of Richmond Voyager while hailing the commercial tanker to stop," and the McFaul had set course for the merchant ship at top speed. Iran Declines Comment Iran's official news agency, IRNA, reported on Wednesday (July 5) that Iranian authorities had made no comments. Brad Cooper, vice admiral in charge of the U.S. "The exceptional effort by the McFaul crew for immediately responding and preventing another seizure," noted Naval Forces Central Command. At times of tension between the United States and Iran, there have been a number of attacks on shipping in vital Gulf waters since 2019. Just over a month prior, Iran captured two oil tankers in the space of one week. Navy stated. Read also: Nearly 80 Primary Schoolgirls Suspected Poisoned in Afghanistan Assaults on Ships The latest in a string of assaults on ships in the area since 2019, the U.S. Navy announced on Wednesday that it had intervened to stop Iran from capturing two commercial tankers in the Gulf of Oman. Prior to the incident this week in the Gulf of Oman, the Richmond Voyager was reportedly berthed in Ras Tannoura in eastern Saudi Arabia, according to Refinitiv ship monitoring data. According to Refinitiv ship monitoring, the Richmond Voyager was sailing out of the Gulf with Singapore marked as its destination. Leading ship registries, such as Greece and the Marshall Islands, have issued warnings recently about the danger to commercial ships in the Gulf, notably through the Strait of Hormuz. Another area of contention was when, in April, as part of a sanctions enforcement operation, the U.S. seized a shipment of Iranian oil on a tanker, according to individuals who spoke to Reuters. The Suez Rajan, a ship with a Marshall Islands flag, is anchored outside of American territory. Refinitiv ship monitoring shows that the Galveston terminal in the Gulf of Mexico is waiting to unload its cargo. According to statistics from analytics company Vortexa, around a fifth of the world's supply of seaborne crude oil and oil products goes through the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint between Iran and Oman. Related article: Israel Plans to Become the World's AI Superpower and Pioneer Autonomous Warfare Technology @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. By Andres Gonzalez and Pablo Mayo Cerqueiro LONDON (Reuters) - Hotelbeds is interviewing banks to lead the sale of more than 1 billion euros ($1.07 billion) of shares in an initial public offering (IPO) next year, people familiar with the matter told Reuters. The Spanish travel technology firm, advised by Evercore, is poised to appoint a couple of banks as global coordinators alongside Morgan Stanley after recently inviting pitches, said the people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. The company and its shareholders which include private equity funds Cinven and EQT, as well as Canadian pension plan CPP Investments are leaning towards Madrid as their preferred listing venue, one of them said. Cinven, CPP Investments, EQT, Evercore and Morgan Stanley declined to comment. Hotelbeds did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Deliberations are still preliminary, and plans may still be altered or dropped, the people cautioned. Hotelbeds' shareholders had been considering a private sale as an alternative to an IPO, the people said. The listing plans highlight improving investor sentiment towards new stocks after months of muted activity. Should it list in Spain, Hotelbeds' would be one of the largest IPOs the country has seen in recent years. Majorca-based Hotelbeds offers travel agencies, airlines and tour operators access to hotel rooms worldwide in what it describes as a "bedbank". The tourism industry has seen a rebound since governments lifted travel restrictions following the COVID-19 pandemic. Hotelbeds said it had its best fortnight ever in booking revenue earlier this year, recording a booking per second at peak times. ($1 = 0.9352 euros) (Reporting by Andres Gonzalez and Pablo Mayo Cerqueiro in London; Editing by Anousha Sakoui and Nick Zieminski) NEW YORK (Reuters) - Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi said on Monday that the release of five American detainees by Tehran was "purely a humanitarian action" as they left Iran under a Qatar-mediated deal that involved the release of $6 billion Iranian funds in South Korea. "This was purely a humanitarian action ... And it can certainly be a step based upon which in the future other humanitarian actions can be taken," Raisi told a group of journalists after his arrival in New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly. Iranian authorities said the five Iranians detained by the United States and charged with committing crimes had been freed, an apparent reference to their being granted clemency. Two arrived in Doha, U.S. and Iranian officials said. It was unclear whether the exchange might result in progress on the many disputed issues between the arch foes, including Iran's nuclear program, Tehran's support for regional Shi'ite militias, the presence of U.S. troops in the Gulf and U.S. sanctions on Iran. "Unfortunately history has shown the lack of trust towards the United States because it has trampled upon commitments and broken promises repeatedly," Raisi said. Iranian authorities have not ruled out the possibility of indirect meetings between Tehran and Washington in New York to revive Iran's 2015 nuclear pact with six powers that then-U.S. president Donald Trump ditched in 2018 and reimposed sanctions on Iran. (Reporting by Don Durfee; Writing by Parisa Hafezi; Editing by Andrew Heavens, William Maclean) JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) -Dutch-listed technology investor Prosus NV and its South African parent Naspers said on Monday Bob van Dijk had stepped down as chief executive officer from both companies. The companies named investment chief Ervin Tu, a previous VisionBank manager and Goldman Sachs technology banker, as interim CEO. The news sent Naspers' shares up 2% on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange after trading began on Monday. The companies did not provide a reason for Van Dijk's departure. However it coincides with the unwinding Monday of a cross-structure between Prosus and Naspers. A source close to the company said it was not a major surprise after van Dijk spent a decade at the role, almost double the time most CEOs spend at FTSE 100 companies. Van Dijk oversaw Prosus's 2019 IPO and the company's stock boomed during the COVID-19 pandemic. However he struggled to close a valuation gap between Prosus, Naspers and the value of their biggest asset: Chinese software giant Tencent . Prosus holds a 26% stake in Tencent, which is currently worth around $387 billion. The company now faces a fight to ease the discount between the value of the Tencent stake and Naspers. In the post-pandemic bust, shares have declined along with a fall in valuation of high-growth technology investments. More recently, Prosus was forced to dispose of some of its most attractive smaller assets in Russia at a discount in the wake of the invasion of Ukraine. Van Dijk, who has led Naspers since 2014 and Prosus since 2019, has agreed to remain as a consultant until Sept. 30, 2024, the companies said in a statement. "The group's strategic goals remain unchanged and it is on target to deliver on its commitments," the global consumer internet companies said in a statement. (Reporting by Tannur Anders in Johannesburg, Toby Sterling in Amsterdam and Radhika Anilkumar in Bengaluru; Editing by Sherry Jacob-Phillips, Stephen Coates, Michael Perry and Louise Heavens) By Hyonhee Shin SEOUL (Reuters) -North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was headed home after making a final stop in Russia's far eastern city of Vladivostok, where he visited a university, an aquarium and an animal food plant, state media KCNA reported on Monday. Kim spent two days in Vladivostok while inspecting various facilities in the fields of military, economy, science, education and culture, before bidding farewell at a send-off ceremony at the Artyom station, KCNA said. It wrapped up Kim's unusually lengthy, week-long trip to Russia, during which he pledged to step up military and economic cooperation with President Vladimir Putin. The visit will serve as "an opportunity to further solidify the traditional bond of good-neighbourhood cooperation between the two countries, which are rooted in comradely friendship and military unity, and to open a new chapter in the development of relations," KCNA said. Kim toured Far Eastern Federal University, where he and Putin held their first talks in 2019, and was briefed by its president on the school's educational system and future development plan. He also met North Korean students studying science and technology at the university, KCNA said, learning about their lives there and taking a photo together. At the Maritime Territorial Aquarium, Kim watched white dolphins and other sea animals performing "acrobatic feats," before attending a reception hosted by Alexandr Kozlov, Russia's minister of natural resources and ecology, and visiting the Arnika Bio-Feed Mill. North Korea's state radio, "Voice of Korea," also reported on Kim's visit to Vladivostok on Monday, saying it "opened a new period of rapid development and strengthening" of bilateral ties and he thanked Putin and other Russian officials for their hospitality. The rare summit between Kim and Putin has prompted the United States and South Korea to warn against any weapons trade and other military cooperation as Russia presses its invasion of Ukraine and North Korea races to advance its nuclear programmes. Washington and Seoul officials have expressed concern that Moscow could be seeking to acquire ammunition from the North to prop up its dwindling stocks, while Pyongyang gets technological aid over its spy satellite and missile programmes. Kim inspected a Russian fighter jet factory that is under Western sanctions, nuclear-capable strategic bombers, hypersonic missiles and warships last week, though Putin has said Moscow would not "violate anything." (Reporting by Hyonhee Shin; Additional reporting by Lidia KellyEditing by Sandra Maler and Diane Craft) Republicans are testing whether they can widen the Democratic Party rift exposed by the United Auto Workers strike as they try to reclaim the Senate and the White House. The GOP sees the UAW walkout as a potential lifeline in Michigan, where politically weakened Republicans are now plotting how best to seize on a tension point between Democrats clean-energy agenda and their pro-labor roots. President Joe Biden is pressing for more electric vehicles to achieve his climate goals, but workers who produce parts like batteries for those cars are often non-union and make less money. What do you expect would happen when you push policies that will kill off peoples jobs? said Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Mich.). Putting climate change policies over people is absolutely ridiculous, and we cannot stand for it. Democrats dominated in statewide races in recent cycles, with Biden winning in 2020 and Democrats retaking the state legislature and governors mansion. The Republican Party is largely in shambles there, and the national party hasnt won a Senate seat in Michigan since 1994. But now, they see a potential opening. Its too early to know how long the strike might drag on, but the walkout has added building pressure on Biden to work with both sides to reach a deal before 150,000 union members across several other states take similar action, spurring major economic consequences. In the coming days and weeks, Republican campaigns and national party leaders will be monitoring the state-of-play and polling as they determine just how much to lean into attacks on Democrats clean energy agenda, but also against the president, who is being accused of not having done enough to avoid the standoff. That said, its hardly a clear or easy line of attack for Republicans, who arent explicitly supporting the union. Former President Donald Trump is jockeying for a UAW endorsement for his 2024 White House bid. Trump, who according to the Detroit News is weighing a trip to Michigan, urged the union to place the complete and total repeal of Joe Bidens insane Electric Vehicle mandate at the top of their list of demands. His former vice president, 2024 hopeful Mike Pence, hit a similar note on Sunday. I also think that this green agenda that is using taxpayer dollars to drive our automotive economy into electric vehicles is understandably causing great anxiety among UAW members, he said on CNNs State of the Union. Other Republicans followed suit, with a National Republican Senatorial Committee spokesperson calling out Michigan Democratic Rep. Elissa Slotkin Democrats favored candidate for the states open Senate seat for her Thursday vote allowing state-level limits or bans on gas-powered cars as choosing her party over Michigan. Among the Michigan GOP politicians who sounded off in support for the strike are several members of the congressional delegation, one top Senate candidate and another likely Senate contender who was a former UAW member himself. One thing that the strike might be able to do is highlight the conflict that its creating with working class Americans, and that might end up being very beneficial to Republicans, said Saul Anuzis, former chair of the Michigan Republican Party. As Rahm Emanuel used to say, Ill never let a crisis go to waste. This might be that crisis that takes a lot of blue-collar, working class Americans to sit there and say, Were getting shafted by these left-wing policies that are really not very practical. The resounding response is emblematic of a shift in the Republican Party cultivated under Trump. In a GOP that has been traditionally less friendly to unions, many Republicans see the UAW strike as an opening to continue the work Trump began in 2016 to position their party for a play at these blue-collar workers in 2024. Though Republicans might often clash with union leaders, Trumps economic message in 2016 resonated with an unusually large number of rank-and-file union voters, helping him capture the industrial midwest. And in turn, his support bolstered Republicans in swing states like Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin. I mean, you look at Macomb County, which is the home to Reagan Democrat. All these union workers in 2016 werent satisfied with Democratic policies, and they put Trump into office. And if Democrats both statewide, but more importantly nationally, dont respond to this strike and respond to the UAWs demands sufficiently, it may come to bite them, said Michigan Republican Jason Watts, who was removed from his post as a local party treasurer in Michigan after publicly breaking with Trump in 2021. Michigan will be a battleground up and down the ballot in 2024. With an open Senate seat, several competitive House seats and a contested presidential contest, many ambitious Republicans moved quickly to weigh in on the side of the auto workers. UAW workers get up early every morning and work hard for a living thats the Michigan way. Meanwhile, coastal elites in the Biden Administration wake up and go to the couch where theyll work from home, said Rep. John James (R-Mich.), who won his seat in 2022 by less than 2,000 votes, in a statement. Sen. Debbie Stabenows retirement gives Republicans a chance to win a Senate race for the first time since 1994. But Michigan, a state Trump won in 2016 but lost in 2020, is not among the GOPs top targets. Autoworkers are crucial to our economy and after years of concessions, they deserve a fair deal, said former Rep. Mike Rogers, a Michigan Republican who just launched a Senate campaign. Another potential Senate contender for the Republican nomination is former Detroit Police Chief James Craig, who worked at a Chrysler plant as his first job out of high school, also released a statement slamming Bidens electric vehicle push. In an interview, Craig said the strike makes him more likely to run for the open Senate seat and that Republicans needed to shift away from anti-union stances. Some get it, some dont, he said. You get some of the old establishment Republicans who have always done it a certain way and who are resistant to change. I will be a candidate for the workers because I am a worker, he said. The issue does not mean that Republicans are suddenly the party of labor. The Chamber of Commerce, which historically has sided with Republicans, slammed the Biden administration policies as unionization at all costs for the strike. Though Trump has made overtures to union members, union leadership is still closely aligned with the Democratic party, and Republicans notably arent discussing wages or cost of living in their statements, issues of utmost importance to union members. Watts said that the partys outreach to Trump Democrat union folk, is on a precarious edge. You cant push it too much, he said. But well always take a shot at converting or bringing those union members to the tent. Olivia Beavers and Ursula Perano contributed to this report. A U.S. fighter jets stealth abilities appear to be working too well, with authorities forced to ask the public for help finding an F-35 that went missing somewhere over South Carolina when the pilot ejected because of a mishap. Joint Base Charleston, an air base in North Charleston, said it was working with Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort to "locate an F-35 that was involved in a mishap" Sunday afternoon. The pilot was able to safely eject from the aircraft, an F-35B Lightning II jet, and was taken to a local medical center in stable condition, it said in a Facebook post around 5:35 p.m. ET. The 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing the jet belongs to one of the unit's training squadrons confirmed Sunday's "mishap" and that "the pilot had safely ejected from the aircraft." "The search-and-recovery efforts for the aircraft are ongoing, and we are thankful to the agencies assisting in this effort," Captain Joe Leitner, the spokesperson for the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, said. "The mishap is currently under investigation." The jet was left in autopilot mode when the pilot ejected from the aircraft, Jeremy Huggins, a spokesman at Joint Base Charleston, said. Authorities believed there was a possibility that it could have remained airborne for some time, though as of noon Monday they were certain it was no longer flying. The FAA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The circumstances that prompted the pilot to eject from the aircraft were not immediately clear. Joint Base Charleston said in a statement that it was coordinating with units and leaders in the Marines and Navy, as well as the FAA, Civil Air Patrol and local law enforcement across South Carolina. The base said searchers were using "both ground and air assets" in the effort. When asked early Monday whether the jet had crashed, Huggins said he was unable to elaborate. He promised, however, that more information would be forthcoming. Further questions to Joint Base Charleston were directed to the Marines, which said it could not provide "additional details to preserve the integrity of the investigatory process." Huggins said searchers initially focused their attention north of the air base around Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion based on the jet's last-known position and coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration. That effort expanded on Monday afternoon, as searchers had little luck in the initial search area. The incident attracted some criticism, with Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., asking in a social media post: "How in the hell do you lose an F-35?" "How is there not a tracking device and were asking the public to what, find a jet and turn it in?" she wrote. Aerospace giant Lockheed Martin describes the F-35 series on its website as the "most advanced fighter jet in the world," as well as the "most lethal, stealthy and survivable aircraft." The F-35 family includes three single-seat variants, including the F-35A conventional takeoff and landing jet, the F-35B short takeoff/vertical landing variant and the F-35C carrier. A woman places a candle, card and balloon at a growing memorial at the scene where Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer was shot and killed in his patrol vehicle near the Palmdale Sheriff's Station. (Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times) A young man stands on the beach, before breaking waves and alongside his new fiancee. He holds her hand so all the world can see her engagement ring. They're both smiling broadly, full of hope and promise. The optimism of that moment, shared just last week on Instagram, disintegrated in an instant Saturday evening, when an unknown attacker shot and killed the groom-to-be, Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer. The 30-year-old lawman, a third-generation member of the Sheriff's Department, was shot to death as he sat in his patrol car at a traffic signal in front of the department's Palmdale station. There was no apparent motive. A suspect has not been identified. Read more:Mystery surrounds ambush killing of L.A. County sheriff's deputy: 'Somebody knows something' Colleagues described Clinkunbroomer as the smart and dependable type, a "deputy's deputy" assigned to teach others how to do the job the right way. He loved his work and the people he worked with, his colleagues said, and he aimed to be a detective one day. "It's not easy to become a training officer," said veteran Deputy Andrew Cronin. "You have to go through a testing process, have some tenure in the department and some smarts and Ryan fit that." Cronin, who worked with Clinkunbroomer's father, Michael, said the two men were a lot alike. "His dad was very approachable as a sergeant, very likable," Cronin said. "He was like the spitting image of his dads personality. He was always cool and calm and handled each situation in that manner." Deputy William Warner, who trained the younger Clinkunbroomer, called him "a joy to work with." He said the young deputy's determination to follow in his father's and grandfather's footsteps was evident in his work ethic. "He just wanted to do the best that he could do," Warner said, "and do his small part to make a difference in the best way that he could." Clinkunbroomer also had an easy humor. Warner remembered chiding him as one of the few Miami Dolphins fans he knew. When Warner asked the younger deputy when he would switch his allegiance to the NFL's San Francisco 49ers, Clinkunbroomer had a preferred response: "The 49ers suck, sir." On Saturday evening, after a passerby discovered the wounded deputy in his car, emergency crews rushed Clinkunbroomer to Antelope Valley Medical Center in Lancaster, where he died. Hours later, deputies wheeled Clinkunbroomer's flag-enshrouded body to a van, which transported him to the county medical examiner's office east of downtown Los Angeles. With sirens blaring and lights flashing, a motorcade of dozens of police and fire vehicles accompanied the body on the 70-mile journey. Along some overpasses en route, police and firefighters stood at attention, saluting. "Deputy Sheriff Ryan Clinkunbroomer and his family are an integral part of the very essence of the Los Angeles Sheriffs Department," said a statement from the Assn. of Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs. "And this heart-wrenching murder cuts to the very core of our being. "No words can adequately express the profound condemnation we feel for the cowards who committed this heinous act." Said Cronin, who has served 27 years with the department: "Its unfathomable. He wasnt doing anything except minding his own business." Grieving for the young deputy extended well beyond the ranks of law enforcement, to the community and friends, including schoolmates from West Ranch High School in Stevenson Ranch. "He always wanted to serve the community," Bailey Miller, a high school friend, said on NBC4 News on Sunday. Miller, a reporter with the station, added her personal comments to her report on Clinkunbroomer's death. She said the two had both been members of the high school track and field team and cross-country team, part of a group of about eight close friends. Remembering the friend she called "Clink," she called him "a good man and a true hero." "I always hoped I would run into him in the field while I was working. Here I am today," Miller said, her voice choked with emotion. Members of the deputy's family said they weren't prepared to talk Sunday. But Clinkunbroomer had shared with his co-workers how much he cared for his family, his excitement about getting married (He was madly in love with his fiancee," Warner said) and his desire to have children. Announcing her son's engagement on Instagram last week, Kim Clinkunbroomer said, "We are so excited to add to our family." The deputy who trained the fallen lawman made clear the high pitch of emotions inside the Sheriff's Department. I hope we can lift Ryan up," Warner said, "and focus on supporting his family and finding the cowards responsible for this. Times staff writer Dorany Pineda contributed to this report. 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. By Humeyra Pamuk and Michael Martina NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng on Monday on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, the latest in a series of meetings aimed at reducing tensions between the world's two largest economies. In a statement after the meeting, the U.S. State Department said the talks involved "a candid and constructive discussion." The two agreed to maintain open lines of communication and discussed Russia's invasion of Ukraine, North Korea and the Taiwan Strait, the department added. The talks between Blinken and Han could help set the stage for a meeting between U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping later this year. They followed 12 hours of meetings last weekend between White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Malta. "The world expects us to responsibly manage our relationship," Blinken said in brief remarks at the beginning of his meeting with Han. "The United States is committed to doing just that," he added. "From the perspective of the United States, face-to-face diplomacy is the best way to deal with areas where we disagree, and also the best way to explore areas of cooperation between us," Blinken said. Blinken, U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Biden climate envoy John Kerry have traveled to China this year to thaw relations and ensure continued communication between the two countries amid tensions that flared after the U.S. military shot down a Chinese surveillance balloon that traveled over the United States. Biden this month expressed disappointment that Xi had skipped a summit of Group of 20 leaders in India, but said he would "get to see him." The next likely opportunity for Biden to hold talks with Xi is an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in San Francisco in November, where U.S. aides for months have hoped to stage such a meeting. Neither Blinken nor Han in their remarks explicitly mentioned whether such a meeting would materialize. "Currently, China-U.S. relations face many difficulties and challenges," Han told Blinken, noting that China hoped the U.S. would make efforts to implement the consensus reached by the two countries' leaders and promote the stable development of relations. "The world needs stable and healthy China-U.S. relations," Han said. The U.S. and China are at odds over issues ranging from Taiwan to trade, fentanyl and human rights. Critics of the Biden administration have questioned its strategy of engaging China, warning that a failure to push back on provocations, including the recent China-linked hacking of senior U.S. officials' email, could embolden Beijing. Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Chris Wray told a conference on Monday that China has a cyberespionage program so vast that it is bigger than all of its major competitors combined. Ryan Hass, a China expert at the Brookings Institution, said the pace of high-level exchanges between Washington and Beijing suggested that efforts were "purposeful" and not just part of relationship management. "I expect both sides are working to set the stage for a productive meeting between both leaders in November," Hass said. (Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk and Michael Martina; additional reporting by Kanishka Singh; Editing by Don Durfee, Sonali Paul and Sandra Maler) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will make another U.S. trip this September. This will be his second visit ever since the Russia-Ukraine war started. When he arrives in the United States, the Ukrainian leader will be quite busy because he has many agendas to attend to. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy to Make 2nd US Trip According to Fox News' latest report, Zelenskyy is expected to arrive in the U.S. on Tuesday, Sept. 19. One of his agendas is to attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The New York Times reported that Volodymyr will use this opportunity to try and convince developing nations that are leaning towards Russia to support Ukraine instead. After that, he will travel to Washington D.C. to visit the White House, as well as meet with congressional leaders. Analysts said that the upcoming U.S. visit of Zelenskyy will be a more delicate political mission since it will happen while Republican lawmakers shared their concerns regarding the $24 billion military aid for Ukraine, which was proposed by U.S. President Joe Biden. U.S. President's National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan explained why Volodymyr's second U.S. trip is a big deal for Ukraine. "It certainly comes at a critical time, as Russia desperately seeks help from countries like North Korea for its brutal war in Ukraine, as Ukrainian forces continue to make progress in their counteroffensive," said Sullivan. The official added that the Ukrainian president not only wants to see Joe Biden but also hopes to meet congressional leaders from both parties to make the case that the U.S. has been a great partner, especially during the Russian invasion. Read Also: NATO Member Romania Summons Russian Official After Drone Fragments Discovered at Ukraine Border, Near Bucharest Territory Skepticism Over $24 Billion Ukraine Aid CNN Edition reported that more and more Republicans are becoming skeptical over the proposed $24 billion aid for Ukraine. Because of this, the Pentagon's watchdog decided to establish a new team, which will monitor the security assistance of the U.S. government in Ukraine. Before September ends, additional staff are expected to arrive in Ukraine to help the team. They will be stationed at the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv to monitor the financial aid. Since the Ukraine aid spending of the U.S. is further increasing, a growing number of Republicans are starting to question if it is really necessary to spend billions of dollars just to assist Kyiv. Related Article: Iran Reveals Where To Use Released Funds by US, Names 5 Prisoners It Wants To Swap for Detained Americans @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. By David Shepardson and Joseph White (Reuters) -The United Auto Workers union said it would announce on Friday more plants to strike if no serious progress was made in talks with Ford, General Motors and Chrysler-parent Stellantis, adding to pressure on the Detroit Three automakers. Ford also faces a total strike at its smaller Canadian operations if no agreement is reached on Monday evening with the union representing about 5,600 Canadian auto workers, just days after workers at one of its U.S. plants walked out. The UAW last week launched a targeted strike against Ford, GM and Stellantis, targeting one U.S. assembly plant at each company. "We're not going to keep waiting around forever while they drag this out," UAW President Shawn Fain said in a video message late on Monday setting the new deadline after complaining about a lack of progress in recent talks. "We're not messing around." Canadian union Unifor, whose contract with Ford expires at 11:59 EDT on Monday (0359 GMT on Tuesday), said there was still no deal just hours before the deadline. Unifor National President Lana Payne said in a video posted on the union's website that Ford needed to do more to meet members' expectations and demands. "If there is a strike, this will be a total strike," she said. "Every single one of Unifor's 5,600 members at Ford in Canada will be on picket lines." Ford has two engine plants in Canada that build V-8 motors for F-series and Super Duty pickups assembled in the United States. It also has an assembly plant in Ontario. A walkout by Canadian workers that shut down those engine plants could cripple U.S. production of Ford's most profitable vehicles, even if the UAW decides not to order walkouts at truck plants in Kentucky; Dearborn, Michigan; and Kansas City, Missouri. "Ours is a small but highly consequential footprint for Ford operations in North America and this is our leverage, and we will use it," Payne said. US NEGOTIATIONS CONTINUE Talks between the UAW and the Detroit automakers continued on Monday as a strike by auto workers over pay dragged on for a fourth day with little sign of progress toward a deal. Some 12,700 workers are striking at the three U.S. plants, including 3,300 at Ford's Wayne, Michigan assembly plant. Union negotiators and representatives of GM, Ford and Stellantis held talks over the weekend in an attempt to end one of the most ambitious U.S. industrial labor actions in decades. On Monday, the UAW held talks with Stellantis though no deal was reached. It had scheduled a new round of talks with Ford for late afternoon. Fain told NPR on Monday there were "minimal conversations over the weekend so the ball is in their court .... We have a long way to go." Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said it was premature to forecast the strike's impact on the economy, which would depend on how long the action lasted and what was affected. The strikes have halted production at plants in Michigan, Ohio and Missouri that produce the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler and Chevrolet Colorado, alongside other popular models. Ford on Friday furloughed 600 workers who are not on strike at the Michigan Bronco plant because of the impact of the work stoppage. GM said it expected to halt operations at its Kansas car plant early this week because of the strike at its nearby Missouri plant, affecting 2,000 workers. Analysts expect plants that build more profitable pickup trucks like Ford's F-150, GM's Chevy Silverado and Stellantis's Ram to be the next strike targets if the walkout continues. The union and companies are at loggerheads over pay and benefits for workers. The three automakers have proposed 20% raises over the 4-1/2-year term of their proposed deals, though that is only half of what the UAW is demanding through 2027. The UAW at one point during the talks offered to lower its demand to 36%. Besides higher wages, the UAW is also demanding shorter work weeks, restoration of defined benefit pensions and stronger job security as automakers make the shift to electric vehicles. Separately, former President Donald Trump plans to skip the second Republican presidential debate and make a speech in Detroit on Sept. 27 to autoworkers and others discussing vehicle issues, an aide said. (Reporting by David Shepardson and Ben Klayman; Additional reporting by Doina Chiacu and Jeff Mason; Editing by Alexander Smith, Richard Chang and Jamie Freed) By Diane Bartz WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. Justice Department on Monday objected to removing the public from the court during some discussions of how Google prices online advertising, one of the issues at the heart of the antitrust trial under way in Washington. The government is seeking to show that Alphabet's Google broke antitrust law to maintain its dominance in online search. The search dominance led to fast-increasing advertising revenues that made Google a $1 trillion company. David Dahlquist, speaking for the government, pointed to a document that was redacted that had a short back and forth about Google's pricing for search advertising. Dahlquist then argued to Judge Amit Mehta, who will decide the case, that information like the tidbit in the document should not be redacted. "This satisfies public interest because it's at the core of the DOJ case against Google," he said. Speaking for Google, John Schmidtlein urged that all discussions of pricing be in a closed session, which means the public and reporters must leave the courtroom. It is not unusual in merger trials for information like market share and business and pricing strategies to be redacted. And sometimes the redactions are broader since, essentially, the companies want the information hidden and the government lawyers fighting the merger are working flat out to win rather than worrying about over-sealing, said Katherine Van Dyck, an experienced litigator and senior legal counsel at the American Economic Liberties Project. "Litigation is a pretty grueling process," she said. Her organization has pushed for the trial to be put onto telephone lines, as pre-trial hearings were because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Judge Mehta denied that motion. Van Dyck believes that Mehta's call was the wrong one. "When you have these cases with massive, broad public interest and public import, the courts need to do a better job of taking that into account, change their rules and keep up with modern technology," she said. Case in point was testimony given early Monday by a Verizon executive, Brian Higgins, about the company's decision to always pre-install Google's Chrome browser with Google search on its mobile phones. After about 30 minutes of testimony, Higgins' testimony was closed for the next two hours. It's possible that he was asked about Google's payments to Verizon but the public will never know. Those payments - which the government said are $10 billion annually to mobile carriers and others - helped the California-based tech giant win powerful default positions on smartphones and elsewhere. Throughout the trial, Google's defense is that its high market share reflects the quality of its product rather than any illegal actions to build monopolies in some aspects of its business. The antitrust fight could change the future of the internet, now dominated by four giants that have been under scrutiny from Congress and antitrust enforcers since the Trump administration. Companies have defended themselves by emphasizing that their services are free, as in the case of Google, or inexpensive, as in the case of Amazon.com. If Google is found to have broken the law, Judge Mehta, who is deciding the case, will then consider how best to resolve it. He may decide simply to order Google to stop practices he has found to be illegal or he may order Google to sell assets. (Reporting by Diane Bartz; Editing by Paul Simao and Nick Zieminski) Attorneys for a man accused of killing two teenage girls six years ago in Delphi, Indiana filed a lengthy and at times bizarre motion for a hearing that claims the girls were killed by cult members and double-murder suspect Richard Allen has no ties to those religious groups. In a 136-page memorandum filed Monday, Allens lawyers allege that the search warrant executed on his home Oct. 13, 2022 was based on faulty probable cause. The memorandum also alleges that Abigail Williams, 13, and Liberty German, 14, were murdered in a ritual killing by several people, not Allen, The Lafayette Journal & Courier, part of the USA Today Network reported. Allen, 51, was charged in October of 2022 with killing the two girls after investigators said evidence at the scene linked him to the deaths. But Allen's defense team said Monday that detectives overlooked other clues and potential suspects as the investigation focused on Allen. "Members of a pagan Norse religion, called Odinism, hijacked by white nationalists, ritualistically sacrificed Abigail Williams and Liberty German (N)othing, absolutely nothing, links Richard Allen to Odinism or any religious cult, the memorandum stated. Sticks placed at the crime scene to form Germanic letters associated with the religion is one of several clues that indicates that the girls were killed as part of a ritual, Allen's defense attorneys wrote in the memo. Officers transport murder suspect Richard Allen during a hearing regarding sealed documents, Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2022, at Carroll County Courthouse in Delphi, Ind. Other evidence found at the scene, including painting with the blood of victim Liberty German, supports the defense notion that a group of unknown suspects killed the girls, the attorneys wrote. Investigators ignored and omitted evidence of a ritualistic killing and proceeded to request a search of Allens home, according to a motion that requests the evidence from the search to be suppressed. "(The) Delphi investigation seemingly, and quickly, abandoned the obvious correlation between the crime scene and Odinism, despite an obscene amount of evidence linking Odinism to the crime scene, the motion reads. Heres what we know about the case. Who is Richard Allen? Richard Allen, 51, was arrested in connection with the deaths of Abby and Libby. They were killed on February 13, 2017. Allen was suspected of luring the girls off a trail they were walking on that afternoon. Allen used to work at a CVS in the Delphi area as a licensed pharmacy technician. One of Libbys relatives previously told reporters that Allen had processed photos of the girls at the local drug store and did not charge the family for the cost, according to Lafayette Journal & Courier. He had continued to live in the area until he was arrested. He said hes hiding in plain sight. And thats the case. Didnt know, I dont know the gentleman personally at all. Ive probably seen him. Its a small county. But definitely I dont know him, Libbys grandmother Becky Patty previously told reporters at a news conference. CVS issued a statement at the time stating, We remain devastated by these murders and our hearts go out to the German and Williams families. We are shocked and saddened to learn that one of our store employees was arrested as a suspect in these crimes. We stand ready to cooperate with the police investigation in any way we can. Whats the point of Allens 136-page memorandum? The memorandum was filed to support Allens motion for a hearing challenging the warrant. Allen's attorneys believe the hearing will show that a "false statement knowingly or intentionally, or with reckless disregard for the truth" was used in an affidavit to get a warrant, according to govinfo.gov. "(T)he evidence supporting the assertions contained throughout this memorandum was buried deep in a mountain of discovery, thousands upon thousands of pages of paperwork and hundreds of hours of videos. But not buried deep enough, according to the memorandum. Or rather, the evidence presented in the memorandum by the defense was information Carroll Circuit Judge Benjamin Diener should have been made aware of prior to signing the search warrant. Richard Allen ... request that this Court set this case for a Franks hearing at which time the Defense will be asking for the search warrant to be deemed illegal and the fruits of the illegal warrant to be suppressed, the memorandum stated. Allen also requested news cameras and public broadcastings of his pretrial proceedings and trial. What happened to Libby and Abby? On Feb. 13, 2017, Libby and Abby went for a walk on Monon High Bridge trail, part of the 10-mile Delphi Historic Trails system. The two friends were eighth graders at Delphi Community Middle School. The pair never returned to their pre-arranged pickup spot after their hike. Their bodies were found the next morning in a wooded area not far from the Monon High Bridge, which they had visited the day before, according to evidence from the crime. Grainy cell phone video footage and a sketch of a prime suspect in the murder of local Delphi girls Abigail Williams and Liberty German, on the office wall of Tobe Leazenby, Sheriff of Carroll County in this October 2022 file photo. Allen was accused of luring the girls off the trail that afternoon before killing them on the north bank of the Deer Creek, about a quarter of a mile from the bridge. Libby took a video on her phone of a man approaching them, who was heard telling the girls to go "down the hill." The pair never returned to their pre-arranged pickup spot after their hike. Allen was charged with two counts of murder in late October. An unfired semiautomatic bullet found between the girls' bodies had tool markings indicating it was ejected from a pistol owned by Allen, according to reporting by Lafayette Journal & Courier. When is the trial set to start? The trial is set to start Jan. 8 in Fort Wayne where a jury will be selected, The Lafayette Journal & Courier reported. Given the amount of public attention this case has garnered over the last six years, jurors will be selected from Allen County instead of Carroll County. After the jury is selected, the trial will take place in Carroll County, where it will remain until a verdict is reached. ICYMI: Man wrongfully convicted in 1975 New York rape gets exoneration through DNA evidence This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Suspect in Delphi murders blames Odinism, ritual sacrifice in deaths Elizabeth Goracke and Joshua Colbert spent the first moments of their lives in the very same nursery. Now 35 years later, they're husband and wife. He was born first on Sept. 13, 1988 at Mercy Hospital in the Minneapolis suburb of Coon Rapids. Six hours later, she followed. Elizabeth and Joshua also went to kindergarten together, appearing in the same class photos. Elizabeth's mother even accidentally zoomed in on Joshua during their kindergarten graduation ceremony. But it wasnt until 2023 that the pair reconnected, this time on Hinge, the dating app. Both were looking for love and along the way, realized their lives had been intertwined since the day they were born. They actually went to kindergarten together at a small Christian school, said Elizabeth's father, Alan Goracke. Elizabeth just went there for one year. It's wild because they shared their first night on the Earth in the nursery. Joshua Colbert (left) and Elizabeth Colbert (right). The pair was born on Sept. 13, 1988 at the same hospital. Without realizing it, they went to school together. They later met on a dating app, hit it off and got married on their birthday, Sept. 13, 2023. An 'amazing' discovery Back in April, Joshua was done with dating and had been planning on deleting Hinge when he saw he had matched with a woman named Elizabeth. She is an absolute smokeshow, he said to himself. The pair started chatting and only then did they realize they went to the same school for kindergarten and had the same teacher. I went to my keepsake trunk and found the actual class photo, Elizabeth told USA TODAY on Friday. A mother of two and a human resources director, she thought things seemed too good to be true, so she ran a background check on Joshua. His background looked good but she noticed something strange: they have the same birthday. From there, they learned they both made their world debut on the same night at the very same hospital. It was pretty amazing, Elizabeth said. Meeting up Once the pair realized just how much they had in common, they met up almost immediately and have been together ever since. Joshua knew pretty quickly that he wanted to marry Elizabeth, asking her father for his permission to propose the next month. Once he got the OK, Joshua and Elizabeth went to Cancun, Mexico, where he asked her to be his wife. Joshua and Elizabeth Colbert are pictured together shortly after reconnecting 29 years after going to the same kindergarten class and 35 years after they were born in the same Minnesota hospital on the same day. They tied the knot on Wednesday, their birthday. Even their kindergarten teacher, Tammy Korynta, was there. She gave them a photo from field days when they were younger. The pair have no recollection of each other from back then. Its only kindergarten and of course you really don't, especially when you're a boy and a girl, stay in touch with those classmates, Elizabeth said. 'A perfect match': Alabama nursing student buys $6,000 designer wedding dress for $25 at Goodwill Lovebirds say they were meant to be Joshua Colbert (left, red shirt) and Elizabeth Colbert (center). They were born at the same hospital on Sept. 13, 1988, went to school together and later met again on a dating app. They got married on their birthday, Sept. 13, 2023. The couple feels blessed to have reunited, they said. We weren't ready for one another until now, in this place of life, Elizabeth said. We're just really grateful. The pair said relationships require work and communication, especially when youre undergoing as much as they are, including a recent move, wedding planning and raising children. They are juggling a lot as newlyweds but they trust that it was meant to be. Joshua loves that Elizabeth is so compassionate. He also digs her fiery personality. She stands her ground and she loves God, her children and her family, he said. She's drop-dead gorgeous, he said. Absolutely beautiful. I'm a lucky guy. As for Elizabeth, she loves that Joshua is a veteran who served his country and also loves God. Hes driven, always on top of things and is a great stepfather to her children, 8-year-old Chloe and 6-year-old Knox. Joshua Colbert with his stepchildren, Knox and Chloe. She also likes that he respects her co-parenting relationship with her childrens' father, she said. They used to hate the phrase, When you know, you know, but now they understand. From the moment they met, they knew they were going to be together. And although they may have disagreements, they work through them just fine, they said. I would just really point to divine intervention, Joshua said. It's like a storybook and so we're very blessed. We're very fortunate to have met each other. We're excited. We're super in love. And theres another coincidence between the two. Joshuas middle name is Alan. Who else shares that name? Elizabeths dad, her son and her brother. The four of us are the Alan barbershop quartet, he laughed. I think for Christmas, Im going to get us all bow ties. Love is in the air: Robin Roberts, Joey King, Charlie Puth, more celebs who got married, engaged in 2023 Couple says they are a 'perfect match' Joshua Colbert (left) and Elizabeth Colbert (right). The pair got married on their birthday, Sept. 13, 2023. Elizabeths father, Goracke, is an ordained minister and the lead pastor at Hope Church in Minnesota. When his daughter got engaged, she knew she wanted him to marry them. She had her son, Knox, walk her down the aisle. Like most parents in similar situations, Goracke said he thought things were developing pretty quickly. He gave Joshua his blessing, anyway, though he asked him to take things slow. He has married hundreds of couples in the past and always has them complete premarital classes. Elizabeth and Joshua did incredibly well, he said. As we've gotten to know Joshua he's really the kind of man that I always believed that Elizabeth would marry, he said. I do believe this is a divine moment. Joshua said the couple have covered a lot of ground in the five months theyve known each other. Theyre a perfect match, he said. Elizabeth said Joshua makes her a better person. When you find someone, you should be better together, she said. I certainly believe we are better together. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Minnesota couple marry 35 years after birth in same hospital Former President Donald Trump on Sunday night shared a post on his Truth Social platform that accused "liberal Jews" of voting to "destroy" America and Israel. Just a quick reminder for liberal Jews who voted to destroy America & Israel because you believed in false narratives!" said the post, which came on the weekend of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. "Lets hope you learned from your mistake & make better choices moving forward! The post touted Trump's decision to relocate the U.S. embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, among other moves. It is unclear what prompted his post. The Trump campaign did not immediately respond to NBC News' request for comment. Prominent Jewish advocacy groups, including the American Israel Public Affairs Committee and J Street, also did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Michelle Terris, the founder of JEXIT, an organization that says its mission is to "educate and encourage" Jewish Americans to exit the Democratic Party, confirmed to NBC News that Trump's post came from a JEXIT flyer posted Sunday on Instagram. Terris said it was her organizations understanding that Trump shared the post to his Truth Social account after a meeting with board member Siggy Flicker last weekend. She also clarified that the flyer from the organization was originally posted in 2018 and has been used for years. We believe he shared it on Truth Social because he is so proud of his record of support for the Jewish community in America and for the State of Israel, Terris said. We are thankful to the former President for sharing it on his Truth Social account, she added. As our post states, there has been no greater friend to American Jews and the State of Israel than fmr. President Donald J. Trump and we are deeply concerned that many Liberal Jews in America do not recognize the fmr. Presidents history of accomplishments in supporting our people and instead vote blinding for the Democratic Party. Other groups, however, said Trumps post plays into antisemitic tropes that American Jews have dual loyalties to the U.S. and Israel. The content of the post also mirrors his past remarks claiming broad support in Israel for his policies, in contrast with many Jewish voters in the U.S., who often vote Democratic. Reached for comment, the American Jewish Committee pointed to a tweet it posted Monday that condemned Trump's post: "Claiming that American Jews who did not vote for Mr. Trump voted to destroy America and Israel is deeply offensive and divisive." "As we approach one year until the next election, we urge political candidates from the top to the bottom of the ballot to avoid incendiary rhetoric." Anti-Defamation League CEO Jonathan Greenblatt also decried Trump's post in a statement, saying "it is dangerous and wrong to suggest an entire segment of the Jewish population voted to destroy America and Israel." 'Whether or not its intentional, President Trump is playing into conspiracy theories about dual loyalty here," he said. "Even worse, this is happening on one of the holiest days of the Jewish calendar, Rosh Hashanah. Even as an organization that supported many of these policy decisions, ADL doesnt believe that our community needs to be lectured about how to vote. Trump faced similar backlash last year for saying that Jews in the U.S. needed to get their act together and appreciate Israel before it is too late. No President has done more for Israel than I have. Somewhat surprisingly, however, our wonderful Evangelicals are far more appreciative of this than the people of the Jewish faith, especially those living in the U.S., Trump wrote in a Truth Social post last year. Those living in Israel, though, are a different story Highest approval rating in the World, could easily be P.M.! he continued. Some critics viewed Trumps comments at the time as a threat to the Jewish community. Greenblatt at the time accused Trump of "Jewsplaining" in a tweet: "We don't need the former president, who curries favor with extremists and antisemites, to lecture us about the US-Israel relationship. It is not about a quid pro quo; it rests on shared values and security interests. This 'Jewsplaining' is insulting and disgusting." The Jerusalem Posts then-editor-in-chief, Yaakov Katz, tweeted: Nothing to see here. Just a former US president using threatening language about American Jews at a time when antisemitism is on a global rise." Retired Army Col. Alexander Vindman, in a tweet, accused Trump of executing the fascist playbook to turn his mob on Jews. In an interview in 2021, Trump also said, "The Jewish people in the United States either dont like Israel or dont care about Israel." Ill tell you, the evangelical Christians love Israel more than the Jews in this country, said Trump, who won strong support from white evangelical voters in 2016 and 2020, according to the Pew Research Center. Trump also came under fire for his remarks in response to the 2017 violence in Charlottesville, Virginia. At the Unite the Right rally in August 2017, white nationalists and neo-Nazis carried tiki torches and chanted Jews will not replace us, among other slogans. Trump said in remarks to the media after the rally: You also had some very fine people on both sides. You had people in that group that were there to protest the taking down of, to them, a very, very important statue and the renaming of a park from Robert E. Lee to another name. You had people and Im not talking about the neo-Nazis and the white nationalists, they should be condemned totally you had many people in that group other than neo-Nazis and white nationalists. Trump continued to defend his remarks on the white nationalist rally after Joe Biden announced his presidential campaign in 2019 and slammed Trumps response to Charlottesville. Trump reiterated that he was referring to one reason for the gathering, the removal of the monument to Lee, a Confederate general, from a city park. If you look at what I said, you will see that that question was answered perfectly," he said in 2019. "And I was talking about people that went because they felt very strongly about the monument to Robert E. Lee, a great general. Trumps team also had to do damage control last year after a pre-Thanksgiving dinner at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida with Ye the rapper formerly known as Kanye West who was under fire for making antisemitic remarks and a white supremacist, Nick Fuentes. Trump said he didnt know the identity of Fuentes, a known Holocaust denier, who unexpectedly arrived with the rapper. Lawyers for former Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark, a co-defendant in the Georgia election interference case, argued Monday that the case against him should be moved to federal court because he was acting in his official capacity when he urged DOJ brass to intervene in the 2020 election. Prosecutors from Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis's office countered in the hearing before U.S. District Judge Steve C. Jones that the case should remain in state court because elections weren't within Clark's purview and he exceeded his authority. They called one of Clark's predecessors as head of DOJ's civil division, Jody Hunt, as a witness. Hunt testified the job had nothing to do with election fraud investigations, which were the responsibility of the civil rights division. The DA's office alleges Clark was urging the then-acting U.S. Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen to send an official DOJ letter to Georgia's governor and legislative leaders saying the department had "identified significant concerns that may have impacted the outcome of the election in multiple States, including the State of Georgia." Rosen refused to do so despite pressure from then-President Donald Trump who had threatened to fire and replace him with Clark because the DOJ had found no evidence of significant fraud. Clark's attorney, Harry MacDougald, told the judge the letter was merely "a proposal." "You may think everything they said in that letter was wrong, but hes entitled to have his own opinions about the law," MacDougald said. The judge said he'd rule on the matter at a later date, but did not give a timeframe. Clark did not attend the hearing. He's pleaded not guilty to racketeering charges brought by the DA's office. He and Trump are among the 19 defendants in the sprawling case brought by Willis's office alleging they participated in conspiracies designed to unlawfully subvert Joe Bidens 2020 election victory in Georgia and name Trump the winner. Clark is seeking to have the case moved to federal court because it would enable him to put forward additional defenses. The judge who presided over the hearing is the same judge who denied a similar request from Clark's co-defendant, former Trump White House chief of staff Mark Meadow. Meadows is appealing that decision. Clark worked during the Trump administration as assistant attorney general in the environment and natural resources division. In the final few months of Trumps time in office, Clark also served as acting assistant attorney general in the civil division. He was charged with violating Georgia's Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act and with a criminal attempt to commit false statements and writings. Trump, who faces racketeering and other charges in the case, also has pleaded not guilty. The five-page letter Clark drafted was never sent, but was the subject of a contentious Jan. 2021 meeting with Trump, Rosen, Clark and others, his lawyers noted. All the other participants "argued against the letter, the lawyers wrote. The President was initially in favor of sending the letter and having Mr. Clark take the helm of the Justice Department. After several hours, however, the President decided not to send the letter and left Justice Department leadership as it was on January 2, 2021. That was the end of the matter. It was a privileged discussion that never should have become public and it was not leaked by Mr. Clark to the press or Congress. They said The significant point about this meeting for removal purposes is that the President discussed the letter and election topics directly with Mr. Clark, and directly sought his opinions and advice, along with that of all others present. The President has the unqualified and illimitable right to seek and obtain such advice from his senior legal advisors, they wrote. This act by the President conclusively ratified that Mr. Clarks responsibilities included the election-related issues discussed in the draft letter, and that all of his charged conduct was under color of law. They also maintained it was the state that's exceeding its authority, not Clark. The State assumes that it is for the State to determine the scope of the responsibilities of an Assistant Attorney General of the United States. It is not. Constitutionally, that is none of the States business, they wrote. Clarks lawyers also said their client has immunity under the supremacy clause, which therefore bars enforcement of any states criminal law against Mr. Clark based on the content of his confidential internal deliberations at the Department of Justice or with the President, they wrote. The DA's office told the judge that Clark had been told he was exceeding authority by Rosen and others at DOJ, and he pressed ahead with his false claims anyway. A federal judge was skeptical Monday of former Trump-era Justice Department official Jeffrey Clarks efforts to move his Georgia election subversion case to federal court. The case stems from Clarks efforts to use his senior role at the Justice Department to help former President Donald Trump overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election despite the objections of his bosses. Clark wasnt present at the hearing, an absence that became especially notable after US District Judge Steve Jones said he would not accept a sworn statement from Clark as evidence in the case. The hearing ended after about three hours with no ruling from the judge, who seemed visibly frustrated and annoyed at times. At one point, his probing questions directed at one of Clarks attorneys led Trump attorney Steve Sadow, who was in the courtroom, to whisper, This is not good. Jones said he would make a decision on the matter as soon as he could but didnt give a timeframe for his ruling. Earlier this month, Jones rejected a similar request to transfer the case from another co-defendant: Trump White House chief of staff Mark Meadows. Clark and some other defendants want to move their cases to federal court and say they were acting on behalf of the federal government after the election, thus they should be able to have their state charges tried before a federal judge. They could also potentially have somewhat friendlier trial settings or get the charges dropped entirely by invoking immunity protections afforded to federal officials. At Mondays hearing, Clark attorney Harry MacDougald argued that not even an iota of (Clarks) actions would be possible if he wasnt a federal official. This included attending an Oval Office meeting and a classified intelligence briefing about election security, as well as high-level discussions with Justice Department officials. And even if his official job description didnt include most election litigation, those matters were in his lane because the president put it in his lane, MacDougald said, referring to Trump seeking out Clark in late 2020 to discuss the election. Clarks bid differs from Meadows and is a tossup, according to several former Justice Department officials, given that he was advocating within the Justice Department for the agency to take action to undermine public trust in the election. However, Clarks superiors in the department opposed him, and his direct communication with Trump after the election wasnt authorized as part of his job. Trump will also likely seek to move his case to federal court, but he hasnt filed any motions yet. Post-election turmoil inside DOJ Clark is charged with violating Georgias racketeering law, known as RICO, and attempting to make false statements. He has pleaded not guilty. Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, a Democrat, opposes Clarks bid to move his case. Attorneys from her office argued during Mondays hearing that even if Trump told Clark to get involved in 2020 election matters, his actions still would not have been within the scope of his federal duties. After Trump lost the 2020 election, Clark started embracing far-fetched conspiracy theories about an international scheme to rig voting machines against Republicans, according to two congressional reports and past CNN reporting. He also violated Justice Department policy by speaking directly with Trump on several occasions. As part of these conversations, Trump considered installing Clark as acting attorney general so he could send a letter to the state officials falsely claiming the Justice Department found widespread irregularities in the 2020 election. Trump backed away from the plan after top Justice Department officials threatened to resign in protest. These actions are part of Trumps federal election subversion charges, in which Clark is an unindicted co-conspirator. Trump has pleaded not guilty in both cases. During Mondays hearing, MacDougald said the letter never left the office and argued that Clark was not going rogue when he drafted it because, he said, it was part of Clarks job. You cannot get into the Oval Office for a meeting with the president and top Justice Department officials unless you are acting in connection with a federal position, MacDougald said. Jones asked some probing questions during the hearing, at one point challenging MacDougald about the fact that his DOJ bosses told him that his 2020 election fraud claims werent true, but he still included the claims in his draft letter to Georgia officials. MacDougald argued at one point that the draft letter Clark wanted to have sent to officials in key states including Georgia was akin to a dissenting opinion inside any federal agency, including a courts chambers. Compared to his DOJ colleagues, Clark had a different opinion on the weight and sufficiency of the evidence of fraud, he said. He told the judge if this case against Clark isnt moved to federal court, it could allow states to issue felony arrest warrants even for people who work for the judge and disagree with him. You guys hear that? Jones joked in response, pointing to his clerks inside the courtroom. MacDougald ended his arguments Monday with a harsher position toward Trump digging into the position that Clark couldnt have acted outside of his office at the department because the then-president authorized Clarks actions after the election toward Georgia. The DOJ is not an independent fourth branch of government, MacDougald said. But prosecutors pushed back. Theres no federal authority here to protect, Donald Wakeford argued for the state of Georgia. There has to be some basis in reality that Clarks draft letter to Georgia officials about the states presidential election was part of his job, Wakeford said, adding that Clark was told by his superiors what he was saying wasnt true, wasnt part of his job and wasnt part of anyones job at DOJ. Trump DOJ official testifies for Willis Former Justice Department official Jody Hunt testified at the hearing and bolstered Willis case by saying that the person in Clarks role wouldnt have been involved in investigating election fraud. Hunt was head of the DOJs Civil Division under Trump before Clark took over the role in an acting capacity in 2020. In my experience it is not the role of the Civil Division to engage in any affirmative matters related to elections or election irregularities, Hunt testified. Matters related to election fraud would be handled by the Criminal Division or the Civil Rights Division, Hunt said. This undercuts Clarks argument that he was doing his job as acting head of the Civil Division by getting involved in the 2020 election. It would not fall within the responsibility of the Civil Division to handle election-related enforcement matters, Hunt said. Hunt was an influential figure in the Trump administration and was chief of staff to then- Attorney General Jeff Sessions. He later represented a key January 6, 2021, witness who provided damning testimony against Trump. Former attorney general backs Clark At his own hearing last month, Meadows took the stand to testify in an unexpected, high-risk attempt to expand the courts view of his role as chief of staff. Clarks attorney didnt respond to a request for comment, though Clark submitted a sworn statement to the court about his service at the Justice Department, which the judge later rejected. In the statement, Clark wrote he never participated in campaign events for Trumps reelection, never acted in his personal capacity and never took knowingly false positions during his time at the Justice Department. Former Attorney General Ed Meese, who served in the Reagan administration, also sent a sworn statement to the court in advance of the hearing, arguing on Clarks behalf, The prosecution of the President and an [assistant Attorney General] is a major affront to federal supremacy never before seen in the history of our country, according to a court filing Sunday. If the premise of this prosecution were to be accepted, then state law enforcement officials could arrest local U.S. Attorneys and their Assistants while they were deliberating over whether and/or how to approach a possible prosecution of state or local officials, Meese added. But Jones said on Monday that he will block Meeses affidavit from being submitted. With all due respect to the former attorney general, the judge said, some of Meeses submission gives opinions of things and thus wont be included in the official record, and wont be considered when he makes his ruling in the removal matter. This is one of two federal hearings this week about moving the Georgia case out of state court. Three fake electors facing charges have a hearing set for Wednesday on the same question. This story has been updated with additional developments. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Japanese government attitudes are changing as a result of China's expanding military maneuvers in the vicinity of Taiwan and Japan. Last week, Japan appointed two key defense personnel, as reported by VOA. Analysts believe that the actions demonstrate Tokyo's increasing importance of the status on the other side of the Taiwan Strait. Several media outlets reported last week that Japan had changed its previous policy of appointing retired Japan Self-Defense-Force officers to the role at the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association, the organization that represents Japanese interests in Taipei and appointed a serving defense ministry official as its de facto defense attache in Taiwan. Read also: Japan to WTO: China's Seafood Ban Over Fukushima Wastewater Release Is Unacceptable Increasing Security Across the Taiwan Strait According to experts, this development demonstrates Tokyo's determination to elevate conversations about the security situation across the Taiwan Strait. By selecting the ideal candidate to serve as the de facto defense attache, they expect to accomplish their objective. (Photo: by KAZUHIRO NOGI/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida (front C) and his new cabinet pose for a photo at the prime minister's official residence in Tokyo on September 13, 2023. Kishida named new foreign and defense ministers on September 13 in a major reshuffle that raised the number of women in the cabinet to five. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also named Minoru Kihara, a politician with a history of fostering closer connections between Tokyo and Taipei, as Japan's next defense minister in addition to the new appointment of the de facto defense attache in Taiwan. The Japanese government announced a cabinet shift on September 13 that includes Kihara's appointment. As part of a parliamentary delegation from Japan, Kihara visited Taiwan in August of last year while serving as the secretary general of the Japan-Taiwan inter-parliamentary group. According to Patalano from King's College, Tokyo made the choice because it wanted someone who could comprehend what role Japan may or might not play in the face of escalating tensions across the Taiwan Strait. Beijing declared its adamant opposition to any nation conducting official contacts with Taiwan while maintaining diplomatic relations with China in response to the defense personnel appointments made public by Japan. The hiring of Japanese defense personnel coincides with a recent uptick in Chinese military activity near Taiwan and Japan. Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense has recorded 103 Chinese military planes and nine Chinese naval vessels passing by the island since Sunday. Taiwan's Defense Ministry issued a statement urging Beijing to take responsibility and promptly cease such harmful military exercises. China conducted extensive military drills last week in the Western Pacific, sending out dozens of ships, planes, and its aircraft carrier Shandong. Four Chinese government ships reportedly entered Japanese territorial waters near the disputed islands, known as Senkaku in Japanese and Diaoyu in Mandarin, on September 15, according to the Japanese coast guard. According to Japanese broadcaster NHK, the raid is the 23rd Chinese incursion of 2023 and the first since August 23. According to analysts, Tokyo's efforts to improve its defense capabilities over the past year have been justified by the continuous Chinese military aggression in the region, including China's joint patrols with Russia around Japan and the high number of Chinese incursions around the disputed Senkaku Islands or Diaoyu Islands. Related article: Japan's Mt. Fuji Threatened by Pollution, Other Risks Brought by Increased Tourism @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 18, ARMENPRESS. A nine-member election observation delegation from the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe concluded yesterday its mission to observe the elections to the Yerevan City Council which were held on Sunday in the Armenian capital, the Council of Europe Congress of Local and Regional Authorities said in a press release. On Election Day, seven Congress teams headed by Carla Dejonghe (Belgium, ILDG) visited some 113 randomly selected polling stations in all districts of Yerevan from opening until closing and counting. This on-site mission was preceded on 15-16 September by meetings with key electoral stakeholders and representatives of the diplomatic corps, the media, NGOs as well as candidates of parties running in the elections. Overall, the delegation observed a calm, peaceful and well-managed Election Day without major incidents or anomalies. The delegation noted that, with the support of representatives of the Central Election Commission (CEC), voter authentication devices and cameras functioned seamlessly throughout the voting day, reducing opportunities for fraud and reinforcing the trust of voters in the electoral process. It also welcomed the change of ballot papers, which contributed to increase readability and reduced the possibility of carousel voting. We welcome the improvements brought by the amendments to the Electoral code as well as the efforts of the CEC which contributed to the overall transparency and professionalism of the Election Day. These changes included the introduction of specific trainings for polling station presidents and secretaries, and we recommend making them compulsory in the future in order to further standardise the electoral procedures. The delegation regretted the lack of interest, particularly among young voters, in local elections, as seen in the lowest turnout ever recorded in Yerevan. In addition, matters of local interests were sometimes overshadowed due the security concerns understandably expressed by many voters and contestants regarding the situation in the Lachin corridor. We can only share the concern of citizens of Yerevan and call for a quick resolution of this situation. The campaign was polarised and led primarily by mayoral candidates. The delegation was informed of allegations of misuse of administrative resources and bias in the media favouring the candidate for mayor of the leading party. In that regard and with a view to ensure a level playing field, we believe in the need for additional safeguards concerning the period preceding the official campaign, including regarding campaign and party finance. As previously recommended by the Congress, the accessibility of polling stations remains a critical issue which requires further urgent measures. We regretted that too many polling stations were not easily accessible for the voters with disabilities, the elderly, and parents with young children. We noted that there were several areas where, while the legal framework seemed adequate, the implementation of some provisions in the spirit of the law could be further improved. For instance, while all lists have respected the 30% quota of female candidates, too few heads of list were women and thus underrepresented in the public debate. Lastly, we also invite the authorities to consider the establishment of a single day of voting for all local elections throughout the country, which was already pointed out in the last Congress report. Further to the Congress mission, a draft recommendation will be discussed at the next Congress session on 25 October 2023 in Strasbourg (France), the Congress added in the statement. Elbit Systems announced on September 18 that it was awarded a $95 million contract to supply SkyStriker loitering munitions (LM) to a European country. The contract will be carried out over a period of two years. As part of the contract, Elbit Systems will provide several hundred SkyStriker units. Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link The Skystriker can use a number of warhead types and thanks to its modular design, it can be interchanged in the field during pre-flight according to the operational requirement (Picture source: Elbit Systems) Elbit Systems' SkyStriker LM is a fully autonomous loitering munition that can locate, acquire and engage operator-designated targets with a warhead of up to 10 Kg, enabling high-precision performance. SkyStriker can be launched from a variety of ground and aerial platforms, including from a dedicated canister on Elbit Systems' PULS (Precise and Universal Launching System) rocket artillery systems. Equipped with an electrical engine, the SkyStriker enables covert operations of up to 2 hours and with a range of 100km. The system can precisely strike targets while maintaining a "man in the loop" even in GPS and communication-denied environments. The Skystriker can use a number of warhead types and thanks to its modular design, it can be interchanged in the field during pre-flight according to the operational requirement. Yoram Shmuely, General Manager of Elbit Systems Aerospace: "We are pleased to deliver an innovative and effective solution to our customers that combines Elbit Systems air and ground solutions. As a covert and agile platform, the SkyStriker loitering munition delivers high-performance precision and reliability, providing a mission-critical advantage to warfighters on the modern battlefield." Equipped with an electrical engine, the SkyStriker enables covert operations of up to 2 hours and with a range of 100km (Picture source: Elbit Systems) Defense News September 2023 Negotiations between the parties are being finalised and should be concluded by the end of the year. It would be the second plant after the Russian one, but two others are already under consideration. Turkey is counting on nuclear power to diversify its energy sources and meet its environmental goals. Istanbul (AsiaNews) - Ankara and Beijing are on the home stretch of finalizing an agreement aimed at the construction of a nuclear power plant in Turkish territory, the second after the first plant built by the Russian Rosatom which should come into operation by 2024. The he former Ottoman Empire is not the only country in the Middle East to decisively follow the path of nuclear power to meet its energy needs, in a phase of severe crisis: Tehran continues to promote its atomic capabilities and Saudi Arabia is evaluating a project Chinese for the construction of a power plant. The first plant in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has already been operational since 2020, while the leading nation in the region remains Israel, with a plant that has been active for years and the only nation in the area to possess the atomic weapon. The Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar has confirmed that the negotiations with the Chinese counterpart are now defined and sources relaunched by Middle East Eye (Mme) speak of a signature that should arrive in the next few months, most likely by the end of the year. High officials of the Beijing government visited the Thrace region, the European part of Turkey, to study the various projects in the pipeline and evaluate their feasibility. The Chinese delegation consisted, among others, of He Yang, deputy administrator of the National Energy Administration and Lu Haongzao, senior vice-president of the State Power Investment Corporation. Turkey meets its energy needs through a combination of different sources: gas for approximately 33% of the total according to 2021 data, followed by coal (32%), hydroelectric energy for 17% and non-hydroelectric renewable energy at 18%, but the dependence on coal remains an element of controversy. In July, groups of demonstrators gathered in the Akbelen forest, in the south-west of the country, to protest against the destruction of trees to make way for a coal mine, resulting in air pollution as well as the loss of the forest environment. Previously, in January, the government had published an energy plan in which it ensured greater commitment to the use of renewables. We have reached a crucial point: we must finalize within a few months underlined Minister Bayraktar. There are other interested parties and we have already had enough negotiations, he continued, for some parts of the agreement, we are quite close [to resolution]. I don't think there are big differences. We can soon find a pact with China for the nuclear program." At the same time there are insistent rumors of negotiations between Ankara and Beijing for a third (and fourth) power plant, with attention currently focused on the most suitable areas in a nation at high risk of earthquakes, as emerged in the earthquake in Anatolia on 6 February . The second should be built in the northern province of Sinop and a third in the northwestern province of Kirklareli. Turkey's first atomic plant is being built in the southern Mediterranean city of Akkuyu. The plant's first reactor, a billion, 4,800 MW project built with the Russians, is expected to come into operation in 2024 and three more are planned which will allow Turkey to join the nations in the world that have access to nuclear energy for civil purposes. Regarding the upcoming agreement with China, a source within the project told Nikkei Asia that "negotiations are progressing positively" and anticipated that the signature will be reached within a year. The nuclear plan should constitute "China's largest investment abroad", added the source, which is why Beijing has been negotiating for 10 years now to close the deal. At the same time, it confirms the "look to the east" of the Ankara government which, despite being a NATO nation and an ally of the United States, has maintained ties with Moscow and the Dragon in these years of tensions and conflicts. In June Sari Salih, director of Nuclear Infrastructure at the Turkish Energy Ministry, said that the country will have to produce just over 11% of its energy needs from nuclear sources by 2035 and 29% by 2053 to reach the targets on the climate. All family members were injured praying at home and were taken to hospital by police. Some 30 people stormed the house and are now on the run. According to the initial investigation, the head of the family was accused of singing and praying too loudly and engaging in religious propaganda. Chennai (AsiaNews) - Police in Chennimalai, a city in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, have launched an investigation after dozens of people, allegedly right-wing extremists, attacked a Christian family praying at home. According to the police report, Samuel, 34, his wife Jennifer, and their three-year-old son live in Kathakkudi Kadu, a village near the city of Herod. Yesterday, his parents Arjunan and Rathinam and younger sister Beulah joined the young family for a prayer when a group of people broke into their home and attacked them. When the victims tried to videotape the incident, the attackers grabbed and broke their mobile phones, police said. "More than 30 people went inside the family home, injuring all those present, the police report reads. It is thought that villagers, including neighbours, complained to Samuel about loud singing and praying. Speaking to the media, Chennimalai Station police inspector M. K. Sarvanan told said that the police quickly reached the scene of the incident, but the attackers by then had already fled. The police brought Samuel and the rest of the family to the government hospital in Perundurai for treatment. Inspector Sarvanan stressed that the culprits will be identified and brought to justice. "The reason for the attack is that some people in the village believe that Samuel's family is involved in religious propaganda," local sources explained. The Christian family has denied involvement in such activity. Pope Francis expelled Pio Aclon, who served in the Diocese of Borongan, after an enquiry; the decision was read in all parishes. For the Bishops' Conference, there will be no cover-up on the sexual abuse cases involving the clergy. Manila (AsiaNews) Pope Francis has dismissed a Philippine priest from the clerical state for sexual abuse of minors. Pio Aclon carried out his ministry in a minor seminary in the Diocese of Borongan, Samar Island. Following complaints that proved to be founded, the diocese suspended him from his functions. In a statement, which was read yesterday during Sunday Mass in parish churches, chaplaincies and chapels, the diocese announced that he was no longer a cleric and cannot exercise priestly ministry in the Church. Likewise, on its news service, the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) states: Pope Francis has repeatedly apologized over the abuses, and vowed to confront abusers and restore justice, adding that there will be no cover-up on the sexual abuse cases involving the clergy. The CBCP has set up an office to protect minors and each diocese is required to develop its own system to handle reports of sexual abuse or misconduct in accordance with guidelines established by the Holy See. by Melani Manel Perera A procession remembering a minority leader who died in 1987 on a hunger strike stopped with violence. The accusations of a Tamil MP: 'It was the military that instigated them'. The distance between words on reconciliation after the civil war and the still open wounds. Colombo (AsiaNews) - A demonstration in memory of a leader of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil (LTTE) was attacked by a Sinhala crowd in Trincomalee, in the north of Sri Lanka, confirming once again how open the wounds left behind by the war.est Tamil National People's Front MP Selvarasa Gajendran led the rally and was on a truck carrying a photo of Rasaiah Parthipan, known as Thileepan, a Tamil revolutionary who went on a hunger strike on September 15, 1987 in front of the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple and refusing food and water for 12 days he died on September 26, 1987. The memorial vehicle carrying Thileepan's image had started its journey from Poththuvil in Eastern Province and was scheduled to reach Nallur in Jaffna. But the procession was suspended after receiving information that Sinhala mob was preparing to block the vehicle and attack it with stones in Seruvila area of Trincomalee district. According to footage released on social media, some vehicles carrying an image of Thileepan were attacked after being surrounded by crowds, including some women. A police officer at the scene was seen telling the vehicles to turn back as the crowd attacked them with poles and stones. Tamil MP Gajendran was attacked and was injured in this attack, Tamil activist Kumanan told AsiaNews. The MP also accused the military intelligence services, reporting that he had received threats and claiming that they themselves organized the protests. We strongly condemn this brazen attack on MP Gajendran in the presence of the police, said Tamil Christian MP M.A. Sumanthiran -. Attackers can be easily identified. Let them demonstrate that reconciliation is not just rhetoric." Other Sinhalese voices from Colombo are also shocked by what happened. As long as this is the attitude, we cannot expect peace and reconciliation - a young Sinhala Buddhist commented to AsiaNews -. If the police do not take adequate action against those who attack a peaceful demonstration, it means that crowds can create violence in any area of this country." by John Ai Titled "Welcome to Milele", the 32-episode mega-production by China's National Radio and Television Administration began filming in Tanzania to mark the 60th anniversary of the first Chinese medical team sent abroad and the tenth anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative. For Beijing, cooperation and geopolitics go together in exchange for support over Tibet, Taiwan and Xinjiang. Beijing (AsiaNews) A new TV series is in the works dedicated to Chinese medical aid workers in Africa. Based on a true story, Welcome to Milele, a Swahili word that means "forever, is being filmed both in China and Tanzania. The initiative is part of the celebrations marking the tenth anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative and the 60th anniversary of the first team of Chinese medical aid group sent abroad, in the early 1960s. The story follows a group of medical workers in an African village, Milele, who help and train locals in an atmosphere of friendship and collaboration. The 32-episode series is one of the most important projects undertaken by China's National Radio and Television Administration. Praised by official media, it has been endorsed by government officials as well as Tanzanias former ambassador to China, Mbelwa Kairuki, who met with the series crews before they left for the African nation in August. China sent over 30,000 medical aid workers to 76 countries and regions since the first group arrived in Algeria in 1963. China began providing international aid in the 1950s, soon after Mao Zedong established his communist regime, providing military aid, as well as engaging in direct intervention to spread the communist ideology. One megaproject was the Tazara railway,[*] connecting the port of Dar es Salaam, in eastern Tanzania, to Kapiri Mposhi, a city in Zambia. This was Chinas most impressive foreign project in the 1970s, involving thousands of workers. At least 64 workers and engineers died. Since then, Beijings motivations have shifted from purely ideological to geopolitical influence and recognition. Today, it is one of the largest aid providers in the world, governed by the principle of "non-interference" in the internal affairs of the recipient countries. However, experts note that Chinas dealings abroad lack transparency and financial accountability. Beijings silence over human rights abuses and corruption in infrastructure projects in some countries has been repaid with support on sensitive issues like Taiwan, Xinjiang and Tibet. Chinas foreign aid approach has nevertheless sparked criticism and dissatisfaction in China itself, among low-income Chinese. Beijing released three white papers on foreign aid in 2011, 2014 and 2021, but the detailed amount of aid to specific countries has not been made public. In 2020, China waived or extended the due date of loans owed by 77 countries without giving the list of the countries to the public. On social media, many complained about throwing money and buying support of One China Policy, but were quickly removed. As the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative continues to expand in its tenth year, China continues to promote the strategy despite criticism. Xi Jinpings Silk Road Fund began with US$ 40 billion, with an additional US$ 13.7 billion (100 billion yuan) in 2017. This is expected to grow further to pay for Xis foreign projects. [*] Also known as the Uhuru (freedom) Railwaya or the Tanzam Railway. Despite minor differences between aircraft types, the basic design in aviation has been the same for a very long time: a center, long fuselage, with wings fitted to either side. It's a fixed kind of design, meaning that once out of the factory doors, the airplane remains in the same configuration for the duration of its life, and any change to it calls for major redesigns. That's not what will happen with an upcoming jet being put together by a British company called Aeralis . The initial details about the plane were spilled last week during the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) event in the country, and for any aviation buff they are enough to get the blood pumping.We've known some general things about the plane, yet unnamed, for a couple of years already. Aeralis is talking about an aircraft built using a shared frame called Common Core Fuselage, but which can be fitted with five different wing configurations, depending on needs and uses: Advanced Jet Trainer, Aggressor , Companion, ISTAR, and Tanking. At least, those are the ones we know about now, as the company hints there may be others as well.Taking advantage of DSEI, Aeralis showed the world the configurations we mentioned above, with an emphasis on the Advanced Jet Trainer, the plane that will make it into production first.Not many details about it are known at the moment, aside from the fact it will have "a first-of-its-kind wing architecture" with an inner and outer wing helping it achieve high maneuverability regardless of speed.It's unclear what engines will power it (they will definitely be of Rolls-Royce make, but it's unclear what type), but we do know it will be capable of transonic speeds, meaning close to the speed of sound.The jet will be fully equipped for trainer duties, including with hardware for Electromagnetic Warfare, and a full combat radar in the nose of the plane. It'll have interchangeable cockpits, allowing for one or two pilots to fly it at a time, depending on needs.The overall design of the Aeralis concept has also changed compared to the previous version shown a couple of years ago. It comes with an additional fuel supply, new electronics, and a commercial off-the-shelf landing gear that'll be common across all platforms. More details on any of these upgrades have not been provided.The British company did not come forth with any info on when exactly it plans to release a plane (we know not of any prototype being around either), but the general consensus is that we should see something more tangible by the end of the current decade.We will of course keep an eye out for developments, as this is certainly one of the most exciting aviation projects of modern times. When the European Commission (EC) announced it would investigate if Chinese cars are cheaper due to local government subsidies, China was quick to react. The Ministry of Commerce published a note on September 14 that urged Europe, among other things, to "conduct dialogue and consultation" before taking any measures against Chinese vehicles. The China Chamber of Commerce to the EU (CCCEU) followed the same steps. The ministry said it would "pay close attention to the EU's protectionist tendencies," which shows how complex this discussion really is. Photo: Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co., Ltd. ICE BEV Photo: Tesla EV Photo: Stellantis In October 2022, Carlos Tavares told journalists at the Paris Motor Show that it was unfair for Chinese companies to sell cars in Europe by paying a 10% import tax while European carmakers had to pay 15% to 25% tariffs. That was an early sign that European automakers would not just watch a Chinese invasion without at least screaming for some reaction from their governments. If you think about it, it took a while for European regulators to move.Fair international trade is based on similar conditions for all parties involved. If I charge you 10% for you to sell your goods in my backyard, I'd expect you to ask me the same fee if I want to sell in yours. Yet, European companies would face a major issue even if China dropped its import tax for vehicles: it has very little that Chinese customers would want to buy. On the other hand, Chinese carmakers make exactly what European politicians want customers in the Old Continent to purchase: battery electric vehicles (BEVs) China has faced a significant pollution problem in its megalopolises after cars invaded them. Volkswagen's first factory there was established in 1985. Anyone willing to sell automobiles there knew their only chance was with local production. As no car company could entirely own their factories in China , they established joint ventures, which allowed Chinese automakers to learn from their international competitors. However, due to pollution, the Chinese government started stimulating people to buy electric cars.International carmakers were still not that worried about carbon emissions and were too invested in making internal combustion engines (). That created the perfect opportunity for local companies to develop their own vehicles. As the giant Chinese cities were getting more and more cars, local governments created incentives for BEVs to sell instead of ICE vehicles.While anything with an engine had to pay for a license plate, electric cars could get them for free. They also had other incentives that madeadoption a sensible choice. With fewer vehicles burning fossil fuels, the air in these large cities became more breathable, which lowered the government's health costs. On top of that, China refines over 90% of all raw materials for batteries and electric motors. It is also a major world producer of these components, which made everything a lot easier.An investigation is not protectionism per se. If China already sounded the alarm, either it believes the EC efforts will expose a subsidy strategy for the local BEV industry that was under the radar, or it suspects it is just a weak excuse for what is to come. As a goodwill gesture, China could reduce the import tax, sure that it would have no practical effects. European carmakers do not make any BEVs that could flood the Chinese market. Either they are already made locally, or they do not appeal to Chinese customers. That also applies to American companies, such as Tesla, GM, and Ford In a way, the EC is trying to fix something its own urge to turn personal transportation into something carbon-neutral led it to. European politicians were the ones closing nuclear power plants to buy Russian gas instead. They are also to blame for imposing emission limitations that could only be achieved with electric cars while European companies did not offer these products.For a long time, these companies were bashed for avoiding theshift in a collective effort to preserve their investments in ICEs . However, that is not how it works. Any European automaker that was confident with its products would rush to present it before all the others to dominate the market. If none of them did that, it may be because the technology was not mature enough for that.Carlos Tavares also warned about this last July . He said that "the technology is not ripe. Nothing is optimized" when it comes to electric cars. Toyota said the same thing in a different way until very recently. Are these guys just trying to postpone the inevitable, or are they trying to warn customers and politicians about the risks involved? We have quite a few, such as the high price of replacing a battery pack, the repercussions if these components were defective and demanded a massive recall (as GM and Hyundai already faced, respectively, with the Chevrolet Bolt EV and the Hyundai Kona Electric), the dangers with transporting them in boats, and a long etcetera. China is aware of that and urges the European Union (EU) to "create a fair, non-discriminatory and predictable market environment for the common development of the China-EU electric vehicle industry, and jointly oppose trade protection doctrine and jointly commit to global efforts to address climate change and achieve carbon neutrality." In other words, increasing the import tax for Chinese BEVs in Europe would be an attack on the environment. The lesson is that it all depends on how you interpret the facts. The EC investigation will have to present them in a very convincing way. An agreement between the state and Joby Aviation Inc., which was revealed on Monday, will soon see the production of cutting-edge electric planes with vertical takeoff and landing in the same Ohio River valley where the Wright brothers invented human flight. Electric vertical takeoff and landing, or eVTOL, aircraft are becoming more commonplace around the world, however, concerns about noise levels and charging requirements persist. However, the planes' makers claim that the time is drawing near when they will offer a widespread substitute for transporting single passengers or small groups from parking lots and roofs to their destinations without using the clogged streets below, according to The Associated Press. Republican Lt. Governor Jon Husted said Joby's choice to construct its first scaled manufacturing facility at a 140-acre (57-hectare) location near Dayton International Airport builds on 20 years of foundation work done by the state's leaders. Importantly, the location is close to the U.S. government's main office and Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Research Centers of the Air Force. Orville and Wilbur Wright both resided and were employed in Dayton. They started the first American airplane manufacturing there in 1910. In order to tie everything together historically, Joby's formal announcement on Monday will take place at Orville Wright's house, Hawthorn Hill, and will be followed by a formal flypast of a Wright Model B Flyer replica. A pilot and four passengers can be transported in Joby's production aircraft at top speeds of 200 miles per hour (321.87 kilometers per hour), with a maximum range of 100 miles (160.93 kilometers). According to the manufacturer, its low noise level is barely noticeable against the background of most cities. Beginning in 2025, it is intended to integrate them into aerial ridesharing networks. Partnerships with Toyota, Delta Airlines, Intel, and Uber help the Santa Cruz, California-based company in its endeavors. Joby, a 14-year-old business, became the first eVTOL startup to get U.S. regulatory approval in 2021 when it went public. Up to $325 million in incentives are provided by the state of Ohio, through JobsOhio economic development office, and local government to promote the $500 million project. 500 Airplanes Every Year With the money, Joby intends to construct a plant in Ohio that will be able to produce up to 500 airplanes annually while also adding 2,000 jobs. Joby has been encouraged by the U.S. Department of Energy to submit an application for a loan to support the establishment of the facility as a renewable energy project. (Photo: by GEOFFROY VAN DER HASSELT/AFP via Getty Images) The VoloCity air taxi is seen flying during a demonstration at the ParisLe Bourget Airport, on June 20, 2023. Read also: NASA Selects Boeing And SpaceX For 'Space Taxi' Contracts Why Ohio? Following a thorough and competitive search, Joby CEO JoeBen Bevirt said that the company ultimately decided on Ohio. Although its financial package wasn't the biggest, the opportunity to relocate the business to the region that gave rise to aviation and have personnel with relevant experience made the decision, according to him. The commitment to aviation, according to JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef, has helped the Dayton region weather significant economic hardships. In the early 2000s, tens of thousands of jobs in the auto and auto parts manufacturing industry were lost. In 2009, the headquarters of the ATM manufacturer NCR Corp. were moved to an Atlanta suburb. Bevirt stated that activities and employment will start right away from buildings close to the development site, pending the resolution of customary legal and regulatory obstacles. 2 million square feet (610,000 square meters) of manufacturing space can potentially be housed on the site. The manufacturing facility's construction is scheduled to start in 2024, and production will start in 2025. In 2019, Joby collaborated with Toyota, a long-term investor, to design and successfully launch its prototype production line in Marina, California. As Joby is ready for scaled-down manufacturing of its commercial passenger air taxi, the automaker will keep giving advice, the business said. In response to DeWine's earlier appeal, a bipartisan coalition of Ohio congressional lawmakers recently increased their efforts to entice the U.S. Air Force's new U.S. troops of the Space Force or the Space Command headquarters to Ohio. State officials there also mention John Glenn and Neil Armstrong, two astronauts from Ohio, as well as the Wright brothers' contributions to aerospace. Related article: France is Poised to Become a Global Hub for Flying Taxis @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. PHEV MPV So, the brand right now consists of just three vehicles the 2023 Chrysler 300 sedan kicking off at $35,515 and two minivans. The latter is the 2023 Pacific Plug-In Hybrid, starting at $51,095, and the 2023 or 2024 Pacifica, going for $38,020 or $38,425, respectively. That's it nothing else.The only one that entered the 2024MY , as you see, is the Pacifica and did so at the beginning of the month with minor upgrades and some reshuffled grades like Touring L and Limited trim levels were ousted from the Pacificaroster and the plug-in hybrid will be offered with the Select and Pinnacle trims.Interestingly, at the end of August, Chrysler celebrated Pacifica PHEV number 100,000 as it rolled off the assembly line at the Windsor Assembly Plant in Canada that's in less than seven years of production. But the anniversaries don't stop there now the American brand is also celebrating a more important milestone: 40 years of "minivan memories."And it marked the occasion with the start of production for the 2024 Pacifica and Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid. Stellantis may be taking credit for the milestone, but the originator of the celebration is the former Chrysler Corporation its first minivan , a Plymouth Voyager came out of the production line at Windsor Assembly on November 2, 1983. That 1984 model year paved the way for more than 15 million MPVs sold by the multinational automaker!According to the company, these 40 years have seen no less than 117 minivan innovations, and the Pacifica PHEV started Chrysler's (prolonged) road toward electrification, which is set to continue with the "first all-electric Chrysler vehicle in 2025 and an all-electric Chrysler brand portfolio in 2028." Chrysler's Pacifica gas gathered at least 175 "honors and industry accolades," the most in the minivan category over the past seven years.Interestingly, as interest continues to shrink and since there aren't a lot of competitors left in thefield, Chrysler is not bothering to invest in a special series, a pack, or a limited-edition model to celebrate the four decades of minivans. Instead, all we get is the 2024 model year Pacifica and Pacifica PHEV, which can only be had with the new Select and Pinnacle trims plus two new exterior colors (Red Hot and Baltic Gray) and a new Sepia interior color for the premium Pacifica Pinnacle. Additionally, the Select version can also be upgraded with the S Appearance, Premium S Appearance, and Road Tripper Package. After Turkey's authoritarian head of state met with Elon Musk's Tesla in New York to discuss the possibility of a Giga Ankara, Saudi Arabia joined the party with a special invite of its own. It looks like everyone wants to be on Tesla's manufacturing map. But something doesn't add up. UPDATE. EV Photo: Tesla It doesn't add up Photo: Lucid on Twitter Mind the US foreign policy Photo: Lucid Elon Musk took to Twitter to explicitly say that the Wall Street Journal's exclusive news about Tesla and Saudi Arabia discussing a possible partnership is not real. "Yet another utterly false article from WSJ," noted the social media mogul. Musk announced shortly after that he is holding a chat about artificial intelligence (AI) with Israel's prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu. The executive confirmed our initial suspicions that building a brand-new Gigafactory in the Arab country would not have made much sense.The original story continues below.A couple of months ago, news broke that Tesla would build a $5 billion Gigafactory in Spain . Considering that it already has a fully operational one in Berlin that boasts the latest technologies and production processes, an adjacent plant in Europe positioned a little closer to Africa would have made a lot of sense from almost any point of view.But that deal was confirmed as done and dusted after just a couple of weeks, and the publicly named culprit for not going ahead with the Valencia Gigafactory was someone leaking the negotiations to the media. For anyone looking for government subsidies and local support, such an arrogant reason to cut ties with one of the world's leading economies doesn't represent good business practices and shows a lack of tact. But it's Tesla and Elon Musk we're talking about here, so it's entirely possible that was what happened.Most recently, Turkey's president invited the Americanmaker to invest in opening a plant in his country. The nation is positioned well geographically, but it deals with many socio-economic problems that could affect the automaker's business. Just a couple of years ago, the Asian country went through a rough patch when the leader narrowly avoided a coup.But now, Saudi Arabia jumped on the courting Tesla bandwagon and made an offer of its own. The Arab nation used its influence in Africa as a bargaining chip. It promised the EV maker access to critical minerals and metals sourced from the Democratic Republic of Congo, per WSJ.However, not even this offer makes any sense for Tesla. Saudi Arabia imports most of its workforce from other Asian countries, and the royal family keeps everyone in line through tough laws. Someone critiquing the leaders on Elon Musk's Twitter (X) was recently sentenced to death.Thus, this recent offer does not feel like an opportunity Tesla should consider. Moreover, Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) owns over 60% of Lucid. Peter Rawlinson, the former chief Tesla Model S engineer, leads the EV maker that currently makes only one car the Air sedan.Last year, Lucid confirmed it would start building a factory in the country. Afterward, Saudi Arabia announced a new auto company - Ceer, its very own homegrown EV maker. The timing couldn't be more revealing because it was clear as day that Lucid's automotive know-how would end up being used to launch Ceer's products.Moreover, it also managed to get the attention of Hyundai and BMW, which already invested in different sectors of the Saudi Arabian economy. Even Foxconn is expected to debut a plant there.Another worrying aspect about Saudi Arabia and its plans to become a global powerhouse is that it will soon import raw lithium from Austria, turn it into lithium hydroxide, and then ship it back to Europe so BMW can make EVs. Current estimates show that around 9,000 metric tons of the inorganic compound could be sent from the Arab Peninsula to Germany after being brought from Austria.That's not the shorter supply chain governments asked for, and companies wanted so they could reduce production costs.It also doesn't make sense environmentally. EVs will continue to have a large initial carbon footprint if the plan starts in 2027, as scheduled.On top of all this, the US publicly accused Saudi Arabia of maintaining the price of crude oil unreasonably high by pressuring other OPEC members to do the same.Then, the country doubled down and announced another voluntary oil production cut together with Russia, a US adversary. Now, Europeans and Americans are paying more for gas and diesel than they did at the beginning of 2023.Tesla was also rumored to build a Gigafactory in Mexico, China, the US, Canada, India, France, Italy, South Korea, Poland, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Singapore. But its existing plants are still not running at maximum capacity, so it makes little to no sense to start the construction of a brand-new one now.But with five million cars already manufactured , two million alleged reservations for the Cybertruck, the recently launched Model 3 refresh, an incoming facelift for the Model Y, the possibility to start making the Tesla Semi in large numbers, and the announcement of a quirky robotaxi, the world's most valuable auto company might need an extra facility. It remains to be seen where and when it will be opened.Finally, all these discussions revolving around Tesla and its expansion plans might help EV deniers finally admit that we are heading toward a zero-tailpipe emission future. Battery-electric vehicles are poised to take over, and the internal combustion engine will be slowly yet surely phased out. ECU AWD Back in May 2023, during a review of available filed data, the peeps at Kia North America identified one too many replacement claims for the high-pressure fuel pump in the aforementioned population of 2.0-liter turbo vehicles. In all instances, owners described either a reduction or complete loss of motive power.The South Korean automaker's engineering department installed a collected part into a different vehicle to see how it performs. The Stinger in question suffered from hesitation, followed by a 2,000-rpm engine speed limitation. As expected, this matter was then escalated to Kia in South Korea.According to the mothership, loss of motive power is possible while driving at highway speeds under excessively rich combustion conditions caused by the engine management logic only in case of fuel pump overpressurization. Although there are no reports of crashes or injuries potentially related to said issue, Kia is aware of 77 warranty claims, 6 technical assistance cases, as well as 2 customer complaints.What causes the overpressurization condition? Misalignment of the fuel control valve plunger leads to uneven wear. In due time, said wear causes the plunger to remain stuck open, therefore resulting in the loss of motive power due to overpressurization of the fuel pump. Kia switched to a different assembly for the 2022 model year, when the Stinger's 2.0-liter turbo four-pot engine was replaced by a 2.5 lump.Affected vehicles were assembled in South Korea between September 29, 2017 and January 20, 2021. The recalled fuel pump assembly bears part number 35320-2CTB1, and it's manufactured by Motonic. Owner notifications will be mailed on or about November 10, whereas US dealers will be informed of this recall (number 23V-634) on November 7.Dealers will inspect said vehicles. If necessary, the high-pressure fuel pump will be replaced at no charge whatsoever to the owner. What's more, dealer techs will also update the's software logic to prevent any loss of motive power while driving should HPFP overpressurization rear its ugly head once again.With much of the automaker's US lineup having made the switch to the 2024 model year, the Stinger continues to be advertised as a 2023 model with up to 368 horsepower on deck from the optional twin-turbo sixer. Torque vectoringis available as well, and the quickest Stinger of them all promises to reach 60 mph (97 kph) in merely 4.7 seconds.Equipped with the 2.5-liter turbo, the Stinger currently goes for $36,690 at the very least. Not including the destination freight charge, the V6-engined GT2 trim level kicks off at $51,890. In 2023, vintage Fox body Ford Mustangs and modern Coyote V8s are like peanut butter and jelly. It's as if the world suspects the two to pair together in a mundane, almost routine way. Standing out in a crowd of so many Coyote-swapped Fox bodies is challenging these days. But a little shop near the Illinois border with Wisconsin managed to do just that. Say hello to "Lochness," a Coyote-swapped 1988 Mustang GT with more than just a Coyote motor to make it appealing in the eyes of the petrolhead faithful. This particularly clean-looking restomod comes to us from the Streetcar Shenanigans shop out of Antioch, Illinois, and from the minute you first lay eyes on Lochness, you get the impression it isn't another half-baked custom car thrown together with all the care of the average 15-second TikTok video. In fact, some fairly serious engine modifications were made to this five-liter Coyote V8 right here at the Streetcar Shenanigans shop. Starting with a fully-custom intake manifold with functional split air intake, you won't find on any other performance car in the world. Added to the mix is an RGR top-end complete with custom ported heads and custom fabricated camshafts for added strength when someone revs the snot out of this motor.There's also an in-house fabricated variable valve-timing delete on this motor to compensate for the much more aggressive camshafts and valvetrain hardware now native under the hood of this beast. It makes for an engine capable of 530 horsepower to the wheels. It's all fed through to ARH long-tube headers and a custom three-inch exhaust system that at least attempts to make the total package a bit less noisy. Not that the sound emanating from the tailpipes isn't music to our ears. When paired with a T56 Magnum six-speed manual gearbox and an Eaton Trutrac limited-slip differential complete with 4.56 gears, Bilstein shocks, and Wilwood brakes all around, this build becomes one of the most true-to-form driver's cars we've seen in a long time.That's without mentioning the amazing titanium-color paintwork, which Streetcar Shenanigans outsourced to a shop just over the border in Kenosha, Wisconsin, to do for them. Toeing the line between blue and grey is not an easy feat. But it's something this custom build does with an effortlessness that makes other custom fabricators blush with jealousy. Ditto as well for the interior, complete with Corbeau racing buckets up front, complete with a full six-point harness system, and a total rear seat delete so an orange roll bar can be installed with little difficulty. Add it all up, and Streetcar Shenanigans has a build on its hands that can turn heads from sea to shining sea, not just in Illinois. Canadian tiny home brands have raised the bar when it comes to mobile living luxury. Builders like Summit Tiny Homes prove that high-quality craftsmanship and refined style can turn even the smallest spaces into mansions on wheels. Luxury isn't about size but about the ingenious use of space and the best amenities. Photo: Summit Tiny Homes Photo: Summit Tiny Homes Photo: Summit Tiny Homes One look at the Hummingbird is enough to make you curious about the possible delights it might be hiding. As rustic as a traditional cabin in the forest yet imposing and majestic as a family mansion, this eye-catching dwelling almost makes you forget that it comes on wheels. The carefully crafted exterior details, with a rich texture and bold color palette, hint at the exquisite craftsmanship inside.Indeed, as soon as you step inside the Hummingbird tiny, you're dazzled by the tasteful layout that creates the illusion of a much bigger space. Your eyes are drawn to the large sofa, taking up the entire length of the end wall. Surrounded by wonderful panoramic views (thanks to two large windows and the glass entry door), this sofa reigns supreme in Hummingbird's living room. It feels like a cozy cocoon for relaxation, intimate yet still open, with unobstructed views of the entire main floor.In terms of functionality, the same welcoming sofa doubles as a storage solution (with multiple compartments underneath) and an extra bed for overnight guests. At the opposite end of the house, the main bedroom is also carefully tucked away. Like a treasure waiting to be discovered, it seems to hide behind the bathroom, completely isolated from the rest of the house.Thanks to this placement, the Hummingbird's main bedroom is truly an oasis for sleep and relaxation, like the ones in conventional homes. Privacy is a rare treat in compact dwellings. Despite the open-plan layout, typical for tiny houses, this one skillfully blends privacy with spaciousness. The clever layout creates the illusion of separate rooms without actually closing off the space and obstructing sight.Loft rooms might be controversial, but everyone loves a main-floor bedroom. Hummingbird's custom bed is not only lavishly comfortable but even provides extra storage. The room also includes two wardrobes and charming rustic shelves. The XL version of this model, boasting a length of 34 feet (10.3 meters) instead of 28 (8.5 meters), endows the bedroom with extra walk-around space and additional storage.This particular Summit Tiny Homes design offers the best of both worlds . It flaunts the advantages of single-level tiny homes while still including one loft area. This results in a generous sleeping arrangement that many will find surprisingly flexible for a house on wheels. Instead of a secondary loft room that's usually smaller and more difficult to access, this home offers two equally spacious and luxurious bedrooms, one on the main floor and the other one upstairs.The loft sits above the bathroom and is fitted with a full-length railing for protection and a bit of privacy. The clever guardrails also double as a practical bookcase. The room itself is a multi-purpose space that the owners can turn into whatever they prefer, from a children's bedroom to a second lounge area.Bathrooms are typically the rooms that get "sacrificed" in tiny home configurations, but this is certainly not the case with Hummingbird. This home reveals its luxurious essence as soon as the bathroom's sliding barn door is opened. The lavish tub/shower combination is an unexpected feature.The tile, the finishes, and the large vanity with a butcher block countertop are all part of a surprisingly elegant setup . Adorable rustic shelves provide storage (together with an upper cabinet) and are also part of the decor. The standard version comes with a conventional toilet, but customers can opt for an eco-friendly alternative.A similar classy elegance with a rustic touch turns the kitchen into a luxurious space. The 24-inch (61 cm) farm sink looks like a work of art, harmoniously fitted in between the solid wood butcher block countertops.Cabinets of various sizes provide ample storage for kitchen items and groceries. The retro fridge is a practical and also stylish addition next to all the other premium appliances. A washing machine is also seamlessly integrated, with additional overhead storage.The dining bar connecting the kitchen with the living room is also a work of art in itself. Crafted from solid wood, it combines the solid look of a butcher block with the refined craftsmanship of an art piece. Like most elements inside the Hummingbird, it's equally practical and decorative. It gets plenty of natural light thanks to the large window in front, which is why it can also double as a work desk.The great thing about this Canadian brand's models is that they come with many of these fabulous features as standard. Premium finishes and luxurious items no longer need to be an option. And, in addition to these amazing goodies, future owners can choose many other cool features.Pricing for the Hummingbird starts at CAD 167,499 ($129,900), with approximately $10,000 extra for the XL version. Right now, a limited-time offer is still on the table, with available slots for the first months of next year. Although Tesla opened its Supercharger network to other EV brands, its stations are less accommodating for non-Tesla vehicles. Things are set to change, as Tesla now has a new standard design for upcoming Superchargers. Even smaller stations will be able to charge Tesla, non-Tesla, and electric pickups towing large trailers. EV No, not the Cybertruck again! My eyes are on fucking fire!!!! pic.twitter.com/meZcW4CIYS Marco (i like superchargers) (@MarcoRPi2) September 13, 2023 One of Tesla's most important assets is the Supercharger network, which is considered the best in the world . Tesla has the most extensive DC fast-charging network, but what really sets it apart is the incredible uptime, which is close to 100%. The probability of reaching a Supercharger and being unable to charge your Tesla is almost non-existent, something that no other charging network in the US can brag about.Not everyone was happy as Tesla opened its Supercharger network to otherbrands. Tesla owners considered that more EVs charging at Tesla Superchargers would bring queues and long waiting times. Although this is more likely to happen at the busiest stations, Tesla owners soon discovered another problem. Because different EVs have the charge port in various positions, their drivers sometimes were forced to block two Supercharger spots or the wrong one.To worsen the situation, the Supercharger V3 stalls have a very short charging cable, which is only long enough to reach Tesla charge ports. This is not true for all Tesla vehicles, as the upcoming Cybertruck has difficulties charging at current Supercharger locations. Although its charge port is in a similar position (rear-left fender), the sheer size of the Cybertruck makes it hard to reach with the regular cable. It can be done, but it needs excellent parking skills to put the car within an inch of the pedestal.Tesla acknowledged the situation and started to build new Supercharger stations accordingly. The Supercharger station in Quartzsite , Arizona, has just opened with a smarter layout. The 84-stall Supercharger offers regular charging spots but also pull-through spots where EVs towing trailers can replenish their batteries. This is a massive new development, and offering an improved layout adapted to the new realities makes sense. Still, Tesla intends to also change existing locations to provide similar capabilities.Tesla enthusiast @MarcoRPi2 found a Supercharger project designed for a much smaller charging station that reveals Tesla's plans. The sketch reveals that it is intended to modify an existing Supercharger location based on indications like "Utility pole to be removed," "new curb," and "future stalls." This Supercharger design is well thought out, providing charging spots for Tesla and larger EVs with the charge port in unoptimized positions."La piece de resistance" is an island in the middle of the lot with standard spots and a pull-through charger. This is specifically designed with the Cybertruck in mind, as the sketch shows a vehicle towing a trailer marked with the "Cybertruck MAX" words. The island is carefully placed to allow the EV towing the trailer to easily maneuver around it without the need to back up. Among the most significant changes expected with the refreshed Model 3 were switching to a structural battery pack and the use of megacastings, similar to how the Model Y is built. Still, a Highland body-in-white image posted on Tesla's European and Chinese websites shows no signs of these updated structures. The primary purpose of the Tesla Model 3 refresh was to cut manufacturing costs. This is why the first rumors indicated that Tesla would scrap some features and parts. Adding new items to the Model 3 feature list was welcome, although nobody expected groundbreaking features that would increase the Model 3 cost. Tesla did remove the stalks and moved crucial controls on the steering wheel and the infotainment screen to cut costs.When Tesla introduced the single-piece megacastings and a structural battery pack to the Model Y, it touted the cost benefits and manufacturing optimizations these could bring. It could be huge, freeing a lot of factory floor and assembly robots and reducing the time needed to build the car's body-in-white. Everybody thought the Model 3 Highland would also get this treatment. Still, it appears that Tesla did not pursue this strategy with the refreshed Model 3, at least the one built at Giga Shanghai.The image of the Model 3 body-in-white featured on Tesla's website shows that the refreshed Model 3 has a similar structure to the pre-Highland model. There are no signs of front or rear megacastings and, indeed, no structural battery pack. Tesla considered that the best cost optimization would be not to change anything to the Model 3 structure. This could be one of the possible explanations.Another explanation could be that producing the megacastings in China is not possible, or the technology might be under embargo. We know that Tesla patented an advanced alloy material for the megacastings. The front megacasting has a crucial role in crash protection, and its structure and material are highly sensitive. That explains why Tesla only built the Model Y at Giga Shanghai with rear megacastings. Meanwhile, the front frame is still using the conventional manufacturing technique.To add to the confusion, Tesla is doing the same at its Fremont factory, with only the rear structure produced as a single-piece casting. So far, only Giga Berlin and Giga Texas are building the Model Y with front and rear megacastings. Whatever the reason, there's still a chance that the Model 3 Highland produced in Fremont will feature single-piece megacastings similar to the Model Y. It could start with the rear structure and later move to a dual-megacasting design.The consequences of continuing to build the Model 3 with the old body-in-white structure are far-reaching. The first and most obvious is that the cost savings are limited. That would explain why Tesla set a higher price for the refreshed Model 3 in China, despite rumors that the new model will be more affordable.Using megacastings would've also allowed Tesla to build the Model 3 on the same production line as the Model Y at Giga Texas and Giga Berlin. This is no longer possible, at least not until Tesla adopts the same structure for the refreshed Model 3. This could happen overnight at some point, as it happened with the Model Y. We still have to see what will happen with the Fremont-made Model 3. 18 September 2023 08:30 (UTC+04:00) Elnur Enveroglu Read more In order to get updated of the latest situation in Armenia and Garabagh, where the separatist forces are still located, it is no longer necessary to search for the Armenian press. The Senate of the United States of America has almost become the daily newspaper of Armenia giving fresh tiding; whatever the situation is inside, the same atmosphere exists in the Senate. There is only one issue that the voices from the Senate are more excited and more aggressive than those from Yerevan. For example, Senator Robert or simply Bob Menendez, a 69-year-old American politician, is so excited every time he stands in front of the tribune talking about Armenia that he almost drowns in his own sweat. Bob is so pro-Armenian that he would almost give the whole world a gift for Armenia. But Menendez has one thing missing; it's that he himself can't understand anything from what he's talking about. Indeed, the old senate has become so emotional that sometimes he believes the lies he tells himself. Menendez's commitment to Armenians is as strong as Caroline Cox's in the British Parliament. In other words, Armenian blood was injected into the blood of both old armenophiles. The only difference between the two characters is that Menendez is a bit greedy, that is, avid for money. Bob Menendez also had an interesting story in 2015 about his corruption issue in the court just because of being apt to receive bribe. The senator, who is easily lured by money or some gifts, repeatedly poked his nose into an issue he did not know deeply due to the money invested in his account from the Armenian lobbies. The fact that the senator, who has never put a step in Garabagh and has a simple understanding of the Caucasus region, presented false images to the Foreign Relations Committee just for the sake of his pre-paid work, is a clear proof of all that has been said. Although Menendez is a lawyer, he does not know the secrets of his position. Of course, without knowing the region, how can making claims from thousands of kilometers away help lobbyists pouring millions into the pockets of the corruptionists like Menendez? He just wins, because his mission is just to care about his account but not Armenians even if he vehemently shouts out words of sanctions. Who cares though? Because even though he doesn't know anything about Garabagh, he still knows this business very well. Thus, the situation in the United States does not directly express Washington's position towards Azerbaijan. On the contrary, the United States tries to find a way out of such a situation at many points. First of all, the United States will never want to lose Azerbaijan, which is one of the most reliable allies of the West, and cannot directly pressure Azerbaijan even on the most critical issues related to Armenia. The final situation was actually a momentary sabotage plan from the armenianized US Senate aimed at the South Caucasus. Currently, the situation in the US Senate is complicated. Because Yerevan and the forces working to feed the separatists have put such a leash on the neck of people like Menendez that neither the US State Department nor the White House can speak out. However, unlike them, Azerbaijan can always say its word. Because the international laws written by the West are supreme for Azerbaijan, even if they are worth the bribes they receive. No matter how hard people like Robert Menendez try to impose tough sanctions against Azerbaijan and its leadership, in the end, Azerbaijan gets what it wants. And as it happened... Although the Aghdam-Khankendi road was blocked by the separatists for a long time, in the end it was not what they wanted, but what Azerbaijan wanted. First, they wanted to create an illusion, ostensibly there was a starvation and humanitarian crisis in Khankendi. All Armenian and pro-Armenian media outlets circulated the fabricated pictures and a term of "genocide", the one which Menendez tried to fake at the tribune. Besides, the local residents said on social networks that the leaders of the separatist gang took away products brought by the ICRC or the Russian Peacekeepers to aggravate the situation further. However, it did not work and first, the separatists were obliged to step back and release extra meat products in Khankendi on August 20. According to the so-called statement, on September 17 they were obliged to step back a second time against internal pressure. The regime accepts that it is not always possible to provide the daily 200 grams of bread available to a citizen under the coupon system. In general, there is only one option for separatist and lobbyists in Garabagh, Yerevan, or the Senate: to take action according to the demands and conditions of Azerbaijan. In fact, all these processes could have been resolved a long time ago. It is a fact that earlier, an agreement on the simultaneous opening of these was reached on September 1. The separatists expediently delayed this process. Despite all their fruitless efforts, Azerbaijan's principled position once again prevailed. Now there is a priority for them - to end the resistance, not to rely on empty words from the US Senate and, finally, to take steps for reintegration. Because this is the only way out for the Armenian minority in Garabagh. --- Elnur Enveroglu is AzerNews deputy editor-in-chief, follow him on @ElnurMammadli1 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 18 September 2023 18:00 (UTC+04:00) Rena Murshud Read more Reaching an agreement on the opening of the Aghdam-Khankendi road is the next victory of Azerbaijan. Despite all efforts made by Armenia and its patrons to prevent the opening of the Aghdam-Khankendi road, all their plans botched up as usual. However, although the United States initially took a positive approach to the opening of the Aghdam-Khankendi road for the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Armenian minority living in Garabagh, it later began to act in the exact opposite direction. The strong influence of the Armenian lobby both in the United States and in France is the main factor affecting the Western side's failure to keep its word. However, in the tripartite meetings held so far, the US side has repeatedly declared that it supports peace in the Armenia-Azerbaijan issue. Despite all this, the issue of the parallel opening of the Aghdam Khankendi road and the Lachin road, which was agreed on on September 1, remains aside, even unfounded claims are being made about the imposition of sanctions by the United States against Azerbaijan. From this, it is understood that the United States, like Armenia, is pursuing a dual policy. However, despite all efforts, Azerbaijan was not dictated by external forces in its sovereign territory, but only its own laws were implemented. In this matter, the ICRC, which acts more like a Western intelligence in Azerbaijan's Garabagh region, wanted to exert political pressure on Azerbaijan, and in the end, they all had to comply with Azerbaijan's demands. That is, the experience showed once again that the Aghdam-Khankendi road can operate in parallel with the Lachin road, and this was finally implemented. The well-known political commentator, political scientist Tofig Abbasov said in his comment to AZERNEWS that it is pointless to put pressure on Azerbaijan in any processes going on in the region. Because the state of Azerbaijan is already focused on peace. "It is no coincidence that after Azerbaijan's glorious victory in the Patriotic War, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev proposed a 3+3 format to Armenia, and later a meeting in another format consisting of Turkiye, Russia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. However, instead of taking a step forward, Armenia spared no effort to further strain relations," the political scientist said. Abbasov noted that all provocation-oriented efforts of Armenia and the foreign forces supporting it could not make Azerbaijan take a step back on peace. "Despite this, Azerbaijan does not change its mind. Azerbaijan is preparing to hold peace talks with Armenia and offers reintegration to the Armenian minorities living in Garabagh. This step is considered to be a proposal that contributes to Azerbaijan, the region, and the world community. First of all, Azerbaijan does not deviate from the legitimate criteria, on the other hand, it stands guard over its territorial integrity. For example, by building a checkpoint on the Lachin-Khankendi road, Azerbaijan first of all ensures security," the expert added. Speaking about foreign forces interested in the region, the expert noted that the United States, France and even Russia approach this issue from a commercial point of view. They are trying to keep the Garabagh issue in Azerbaijan in a complicated situation. But all these are worthless attempts. Armenians do not understand that as they prolong these issues, both their government and the Armenian minority living in Garabagh suffer from it. Azerbaijan has a very clear, constructive activity that it demonstrates and will do at every step. "After Azerbaijan prevents all possible means of Armenia, provocations will be gradually dissipate. Because Armenia's defeat was sealed and signed in 2020," Tofig Abbasov stressed. Later, Tofig Abbasov spoke about ICRC, which is the only place of hope for both Armenian separatist regime in Garabagh and some foreign forces. He said that the intentions of organizations such as the ICRC have already been exposed and there is no way out for their new provocation plans. "The committee itself took a very shameful position. They entered the region under the guise of humanitarian aid and began to take political steps. This is not an action according to their charter. Because their actions are considered unacceptable in the international framework. I should note that the organization violated all the rules with its last actions and endangered the peace process. The ICRC tarnished its international image by purposefully supporting separatist forces in Garabagh. And it is no coincidence that the ICRC leadership apologized during the meeting with Azerbaijan's Minister of Foreign Affairs Jeyhun Bayramov," T.Abbasov opined. In general, the achieved results show once again that Azerbaijan, in addition to protecting its sovereignty, is also constantly aware of the ongoing processes in its territory. Azerbaijan is capable of taking its own steps at the right time, in the right direction, while monitoring every step taken against it. --- Rena Murshud is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @RenaTagiyeva Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz A 20-mile police chase in Rhode Island led to an animal abuser's death. The incident happened in Providence on Friday, Sept. 15. Police officers said that the man was being chased because of a motor vehicle violation. But, he refused the arrest, leading to the tragic happening. Rhode Island: 20-Mile Police Chase Leads to Animal Abuser's Death According to Fox News' latest report, the man killed was identified as Michael Pinto (40 years old); a resident of Glocester, Rhode Island. Authorities said that Pinto was out on probation on an animal cruelty charge when the incident happened. When Michael was being chased, police responders were not aware that his daughter was inside the car as well. Because of this, the teenage girl was shot in the leg, which led to a serious injury. Burrillville's town police chief, Stephen Lynch, explained cops tried to chase the man for a brief period on Thursday, Sept. 14. However, he was able to escape. On Friday, Sept. 15, the Burrillvile police saw the criminal, who was wanted on an arrest warrant. They chased him again and went into Massachusetts before moving to Route 146 in Rhode Island. The police chase went for around 20 miles. After they closed the distance, police officers tried to box Pinto with their vehicles; two responders got out of their cars to arrest Michael. But, the animal abuser decided to drive at one of them. Because of this, the officer fired two rounds into the man's car before it hit a police cruiser and escaped again. This scenario went on for several more miles. When the police officers finally trapped Pinto (placing two of their cars in front and rear side of Michael's vehicle), they decided to shoot the man. Pinto and his daughter were taken out of the car after the incident. Unfortunately, the man died at a hospital eventually. Read Also: Idaho College Murder: Defendant Demands Cameras Out of Courtroom During Criminal Proceedings Police Officers Involved Now Under Investigation The Boston Globe reported that involved police officers in the death of Pinto are now under investigation. This was confirmed by the State Police, the attorney general's office, and the local police department. Attorney General Peter Neronha said that they will observe the videos captured by police officers' body-worn cameras to see what really happened. This will be done for around 10 days or on week. After that, investigators will interview witnesses and analyze the ballistics evidence to determine the necessary steps to be taken. Related Article: Bronx Day Care Tragedy: 2 Charged in Death of 1-Year-Old Over Suspected Fentanyl Exposure @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. 18 September 2023 15:37 (UTC+04:00) Some 11 million manat ($6.4 million) has been allocated for the construction of the road Gandob-Khachmaz-Yalama - state border with the Russian Federation. The corresponding decree was signed by President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 18 September 2023 18:28 (UTC+04:00) Rena Murshud Read more The delegation of the Chinese Committee of Good Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation of the Shanghai Organization of Cooperation, which was in Baku, visited the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Azernews reports. The deputy chairman of the Chinese committee of good-neighborliness, friendship and cooperation of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, Tsui Li spoke about the existing cooperation and implemented projects between the institutions. At the meeting, it was established that the relations between the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, headed by the First Lady of Azerbaijan, Mehriban Aliyeva, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, as well as the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, contributed to the expansion of relations between the two countries. Tsui Li noted that they are interested in implementing successive projects in the field of youth, healthcare, and culture with the Heydar Aliyev Foundation in the future. The guest expressed his satisfaction with his visit to Azerbaijan and noted that getting to know the Heydar Aliyev Center made a big impression on them. The executive director of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Anar Alakbarov, emphasized the importance of the Foundation's relations with the People's Republic of China, including cooperation with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries. The participation of the Public Association of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation "Regional development" in joint projects in the field of youth, as well as the possibility of organizing exhibitions in the field of Chinese culture and art at the Heydar Aliyev Center were considered. --- Rena Murshud is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @RenaTagiyeva Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 18 September 2023 10:28 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more National Music Day has been celebrated at the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum. Themed "Music Motifs in the Carpets", the exhibition includes 11 portraits, carpets, and tapestries from the museum's collection inspired by the art of music, Azernews reports. The magnificent carpets dedicated to such famous composers as Uzeyir Hajibayli, Gara Garayev and Dmitri Shostakovich, created by People's Artists Tahir Salahov and Eldar Mikayilzade, carpet designers Gulmurad Babirov, Basti Sharif, artists Pavel Kuzmenko, Rimma Eminova and Faig Ibrahimov are among the artworks. These artworks brilliantly reflect a magnificent synthesis of classical and folk music, mugham and national dances, folk musical instruments and carpet patterns. The exhibition aroused great interest among museum visitors, including many foreign guests. The opening ceremony was followed by the gala concert organized in cooperation with the museum's children's department and children's music school No.7 named after H.Sarabski. During the concert, the young talents performed classical and modern music pieces. National Music Day in Azerbaijan is celebrated on September 18 each year. The music feast marks the birthday of the outstanding composer, founder of Azerbaijani professional musical art and opera, Uzeyir Hajibayli. The tradition of celebrating the great composer's birthday as a holiday was laid by eminent conductor Niyazi Hajibayov, who used to celebrate this day each year after Uzeyir Hajibayli's death. This tradition continues till nowadays. Numerous cultural events, including gala concerts and festivals, are being held nationwide as part of the celebration. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 18 September 2023 13:59 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more Azerbaijan National Art Museum has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with the Uzbekistan State Art Museum. The document envisages the development of cultural ties between the two countries, Azernews reports. The MoC provides for cooperation between the two state art museums in the field of research, restoration and conservation work, exchange of experience of museum staff, holding conferences, seminars, training on museum affairs, joint exhibitions, security, conservation and restoration of cultural property within five years. Signed by the director of the Azerbaijan National Art Museum, Honored Art Worker Chingiz Farzaliyev and the director of the Uzbekistan State Art Museum Vasila Fayzieva, it also covers such issues as the exchange of experience in creating electronic catalogues. The museum directors expressed satisfaction with the expansion of cultural ties between the two friendly and fraternal countries. They emphasized the confidence that this agreement will make a worthy contribution to the development of further ties and the exchange of experience between museums. Founded in 1937, National Art Museum offers art connoisseurs some of the best examples of decorative-applied arts of Western Europe. Over 3,000 items in 60 rooms are on permanent display at the museum and around 12,000 items are kept in storage. Here, you can see masterpieces of the Italian, French, German and Polish masters of brush. The museum also attaches great importance to cooperation with international partners. In April, Chingiz Farzaliyev presented his personal exhibition at Georgian National Museum. The exhibition was organized in connection with the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Georgia and Azerbaijan and marked the 100th anniversary of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev. The National Art Museum also started cooperation with the Aegean University in Izmir,Turkiye. The partnership aims at strengthening cultural ties and promoting relations between the two countries. Within tripartite protocol, the head of the National Art Museum's International Relations Department Konul Rafiyeva met with Izmir's administrative bodies, including head of the Izmir Department of Culture and Tourism Murat Karachanta and his deputy Kaan Erge. It is also planned to organize an exhibition in Izmir that showcases the Turkish artworks, kept at the Azerbaijan National Art Museum and implement modular training programs for museum staff. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 18 September 2023 22:00 (UTC+04:00) Qabil Ashirov Read more The new wave of COVID rapidly spreads throughout the world. WHO draws attention specially on the new variants such as Eg.5 ERIS, BA.2.86, Azernews reports. The new varian EG.5, which is known as Eris, is now the dominant strain globally and about 20.6% of new COVID-19 cases are thought to be caused by EG.5, says the World Health Organization. As for the BA.2.86 variant, it is dubbed "Pirola" after a large asteroid that hangs out near Jupiter. This variant has been detected in 11 countries. WHO is currently classifying BA.2.86 as a variant under monitoring, based on the large number of mutations it contains at least 30 as compared to the "Kraken" (XBB.1.5), and "Eris" (EG.5) variants. However, it hasn't been tracking it for long enough to understand whether BA.2.86 is outcompeting other variants, or what the impact of these mutations will be. In generally, according to the statistics, the number of infected people worldwide has increased by 38% in the last month. In Europe, the increase is 39%, in the western Pacific it is 52%, and in the eastern Mediterranean it is 113%. A sharp increase in the number of infections was recorded in Korea, Italy, Great Britain, Australia and Singapore The situation is more critical in the USA. More than 650,000 Americans are diagnosed with COVID per day, and it is predicted that about 10 percent of the country's population will be infected with the virus in the coming months. Deaths increased by 5% compared to August. During the last week, the number of hospitalizations due to COVID-19 in the United States increased by 8.7%, and the number of deaths increased by 4.5%. The US Federal Health Organization has recommended Americans to be vaccinated against COVID-19. While 5-10% of test results are positive in the summer in Latvia, this figure is already approaching 25%. The country's population is advised to stay at home for a week and not to make contact with other people, and to use respirators when going out Quarantine restrictions have been applied in 49 schools in the Altai region of Russia, and 6 schools have been closed in general due to the increase in the number of COVID infections. "Sugruntenfgaz" is discussing switching to mask mode again. Even so, many scientists are predicting that they will make it harder for our immune systems to recognise and mount a strong response. WHO calls for revaccination of those in the risk zone, mainly the elderly with low immunity. In a comment to Azernews on the issue, the Head of the Department of Infectious Diseases and Infection Control Organization of TABIB Nazrin Mustafayeva confirmed that the EG.5 sub-variant of COVID-19 - also known as "Eris" in the scientific literature - has been spreading rapidly around the world, for several months. "This is not the first time, other strains of COVID-19 have been recorded as well. The trend is that each new strain has milder symptoms than the one before it. However, the infectivity of the new strains is higher than the previous ones. This causes mass infections in a short time," Nazrin Mustafayeva said. She noted that currently, there have been no cases of infection with the new strain of the COVID-19 disease in Azerbaijan. The vast majority of people have already had and recovered from COVID-19. The percentage of vaccination in Azerbaijan is also at a satisfactory level. "There are no recommendations in international protocols to prepare a specific type of vaccine against EG.5, a sub-variant of COVID-19, and to initiate a specific vaccination process. As always, people at risk for all strains of COVID-19 should be extra careful. The risk group includes those with chronic diseases and non-vaccinated people," Nazrin Mustafayeva concluded. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 18 September 2023 11:48 (UTC+04:00) The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has sent flour and medical supplies to Armenians living in Garabagh, according to Ilaha Huseynova, head of the Public Relations Department of the ICRC's Baku representative office. The ICRC vehicles have been traveling through both Lachin and Aghdam roads to deliver the necessary aid, Azernews reports. "This is the first time that the ICRC has used both roads simultaneously to deliver cargo," Ilaha Huseynova, head of the Public Relations Department of the ICRC's Baku representative office, told media. According to her, the vehicles of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) pass through Aghdam and Lachin roads and deliver humanitarian goods to people: "This is flour and medical supplies. We are very happy that the decision-makers reached a consensus. We hope that this humanitarian consensus will support the continued delivery of necessary aid to people. The ICRC has been working to provide aid and assistance to those in need around the world, and its efforts to deliver aid to Armenians in Garabagh are a testament to its commitment to helping those affected by conflict and armed violence. Since December of last year, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has evacuated more than 800 patients to health facilities in Armenia through the Lachin road, said Ilaha Huseynova, head of the Public Relations Department of the ICRC's Baku representative office. According to her, more than 80 medical evacuations have been carried out since last December: "As a result, more than 800 patients and their companions were evacuated." --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 18 September 2023 12:22 (UTC+04:00) The delegation led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov, left for New York, USA, to participate in the 78th session of the UN General Assembly, Azernews reports. Recall that, during the visit, Minister Jeyhun Bayramov's speech at the plenary session of the General Assembly, participation in the events held within the session, as well as bilateral meetings with the officials of foreign states are planned. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 18 September 2023 11:41 (UTC+04:00) President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has addressed the participants of the international conference themed "Increasing national and global efforts to clarify the fate of missing persons", Azernews reports. The letter reads: Dear conference participants! I welcome you to the international conference on missing persons during armed conflicts. The issue of missing persons is one of the most topical problems facing Azerbaijan, and the theme of the conference is of special relevance for our country. During the first Karabakh war, a total of 3,890 of our fellow citizens went missing as a result of Armenian occupation of the territories of Azerbaijan. There is irrefutable evidence that 872 of the total number of missing persons were taken as prisoners of war or remained in the previously occupied territories. According to reliable information, the missing persons were tortured, murdered by Armenia and buried in mass graves in the previously occupied territories of Azerbaijan. The issue of clarifying the fate of missing persons has always been in the spotlight for the state of Azerbaijan. In 1993, the State Commission on Prisoners of War, Missing Persons and Hostages was established and has been operating effectively over the years. The liberation of Azerbaijani lands from occupation in 2020 ushered new opportunities for clarifying the fate of the persons who went missing in the First Karabakh war. However, the contamination of our territories with mines and unexploded military ordnance by Armenia creates serious obstacles to the process of identifying mass graves and carrying out exhumation work. Immediately after the Patriotic War, important steps were taken to strengthen the capacity of the State Commission, determine the places of mass graves in the territories freed from occupation, and necessary excavation and exhumation work was started. In the last two years, 10 mass graves were discovered as a result of excavations in the liberated territories. As a result of the urgent measures taken, it has been possible to identify 15 missing persons, and the public was informed about it. Additional information about 10 more people will be provided today. I offer my deepest condolences to the families of our missing martyrs, whose fate has been determined, and wish them patience. Clarifying the fate of our citizens who disappeared 30 years ago is not only a serious public event, but also a clear example of the value the state of Azerbaijan attaches to its citizens. Let me assure the families of the missing persons that we will not spare efforts to clarify the fate of all those who went missing in the battles for the Motherland. In the post-conflict period, the issue of missing persons has been highlighted by us in all relevant meetings and negotiations with Armenia, especially in the Brussels and Washington platforms. Unfortunately, Armenia flagrantly violates its obligations under international humanitarian law and does not provide Azerbaijan with information about the missing persons and the exact location of mass graves. The reasons for this are obvious. Armenia believes that this will expose its further war crimes and atrocities. The international community should put pressure on Armenia to submit information on the fate of missing persons and the location of mass graves to the Azerbaijani side. This is a purely humanitarian issue and its politicization is unacceptable. Determining the fate of missing persons is also important in terms of reconciliation and normalization of Armenian-Azerbaijani relations. Cooperation in this area can be one of the effective trust-building measures. The issue of missing persons during armed conflicts is a global problem. Azerbaijan has taken serious steps to increase international attention to this issue. Our country put forward a resolution on missing persons in the UN General Assembly every two years. We believe that there is a need for establishing a special mechanism for missing persons within the UN system. I am sure that the conference will contribute to the attraction of attention of the international community to the painful issue of clarifying the fate of missing persons. I wish you all the best and the conference success. Ilham Aliyev President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Baku, 18 September 2023 --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 18 September 2023 13:36 (UTC+04:00) The chief of the State Security Service, Colonel-General Ali Naghiyev, made a speech at the international conference on "Increasing national and global efforts to clarify the fate of missing persons", Azernews reports. "I invite the official Yerevan to closer cooperation in matters related to captives and hostages," Naghiyev said at the conference. "We hope that accurate mine maps, as well as information about the fate of the missing persons and their graves, will be provided by Armenia to Azerbaijan. Finding and identifying the remains of missing persons from both sides would serve to resolve the long-standing humanitarian crisis," he added. At the conference, Naghiyev expressed hope that Armenia would provide accurate mine maps, as well as information about the fate of the missing persons and their graves, to Azerbaijan. He also stated that finding and identifying the remains of missing persons from both sides would serve to resolve the long-standing humanitarian crisis. Naghiyev further noted that Azerbaijan is ready for comprehensive cooperation in this direction, but that their expectations were not fully fulfilled. He invited the official Yerevan to closer cooperation in matters related to the captives and hostages. Provocations against Azerbaijan by the special services of some states are decisively suppressed, according to Naghiyev. He noted that reconnaissance and subversive activities and provocations by the special services of some states against Azerbaijan are decisively suppressed. Ali Naghiyev: 'Most of Azerbaijani missing servicemen were killed in internment camps, not on battlefields' As a result of military aggression by Armenia, Azerbaijan suffered a large number of human losses, and hundreds of cities and villages were destroyed, the head of Azerbaijans State Security Service, Colonel-General Ali Nagiyev, said at the international conference on "Increasing national and global efforts to clarify the fate of missing persons". According to him, in the first Garabagh war, 3,890 people were registered as missing persons in the State Commission: "3,171 of them are servicemen, while 719 are civilians. Among civilians, 71 are minors, 267 are women, and 326 are elderly people. Naghiyev emphasized that six servicemen went missing during the Patriotic War: "The obtained evidence indicates that a large number of our missing servicemen were killed not on the battlefields, but as a result of terrible torture in internment camps." --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 18 September 2023 14:32 (UTC+04:00) Rena Murshud Read more The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan congratulated Chile on the occasion of the national holiday - the country's Independence Day, Azernews reports. The corresponding publication is posted on the page of the foreign ministry in X. On the National Day of the Republic of Chile, we congratulate the people and the government of Chile and convey to them our best and sincere congratulations! We look forward to enhance the cooperation between our countries in all fields Happy National Day!" - the publication says. On the #NationalDay of the Republic of Chile, we congratulate the people and the government of #Chile and convey to them our best and sincere congratulations! We look forward to enhance the cooperation between our countries in all fields Happy National Day! @Minrel_Chile pic.twitter.com/qSAUCv6JjB MFA Azerbaijan (@AzerbaijanMFA) September 18, 2023 --- Rena Murshud is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @RenaTagiyeva Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Australian wildlife authorities have fined a Gold Coast resident who recorded himself taking his pet snake for a surf. After a video of Higor Fiuza and his bredli carpet python Shiva surfing went viral earlier this month, the two became local celebrities, as reported by BBC News. However, their brief fame also alerted wildlife protection officials. They claim that by taking Shiva out in public, the man violated the terms of his permit to keep the snake and put her at risk. The Queensland Department of Environment and Science claims that it started looking into the surfing group after Mr. Fiuza made local news. This week, the department fined him A$2,322 (1,207; $1,495). Stressing Animals Out? According to wildlife officer Jonathan McDonald, bringing native pets out in public might lead to "unnecessary stress" and cause them to "behave in an unpredictable way." The incident also sparked worries about public safety and the potential risk that the python would infect nearby species with diseases, he noted. Shiva likes the water, Mr. Fiuza has already informed the local media, and she has gone surfing with him at least ten times. (Photo: by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images) TEAHUPO'O, FRENCH POLYNESIA - AUGUST 16: Jack Robinson of Australia paddles in the water as a rainbow appears as he prepares to surf in men's final against Gabriel Medina of Brazil during the 2023 SHISEIDO Tahiti Pro on August 16, 2023 in Teahupo'o, French Polynesia. Shiva is not the first animal to achieve recognition at Rainbow Bay for surfing. A duck with the moniker Duck frequents the area and has even been observed stealing waves from Steph Gilmore, an Australian surfing champion. Another one is Pork Chops, a British bulldog, that amassed a sizable Instagram following for his surfing adventures with owner and surf instructor Sam Rollinson before the dog passed away in 2021. Read also: Angry Octopus Attacks Man on Australian Beach, Viral Video Shows The Surfing Bug Across the Country Australians have always had a deep affinity for the ocean, and it seems our pets are catching the surfing bug too. This growing trend of dogs, cats, and even the occasional rabbit taking to the waves is making a splash in the country's coastal communities. One of the epicenters of this unique trend is Bondi Beach, where the iconic "Bondi Surfing Dogs" have become local celebrities. These talented canines, with their impressive surfing skills, have garnered a dedicated following on social media, attracting visitors from around the globe eager to catch a glimpse of their incredible talents. Australia's love for pets isn't limited to just watching them ride the waves. Surf schools for pets have popped up along the coastline, offering lessons for furry friends keen to paddle out. These schools provide a safe and supervised environment for pets to learn the ropes of riding the waves, complete with specially designed pet-sized surfboards. For many pet owners, hitting the waves with their beloved animals is about more than just fun; it's a unique bonding experience that strengthens the human-pet relationship. Related article: Surfer in Critical Condition After Shark Attack in Australia @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. 18 September 2023 14:24 (UTC+04:00) We welcome the efforts of the Azerbaijani government to clarify the fate of the missing persons, former Croatian President Stjepan Mesic said while speaking at the international conference Increasing national and global efforts to clarify the fate of missing persons in Baku, Azernews reports. The politician noted that the most important thing in this process is mutual trust and recognition of mistakes. According to him, Serbia and Croatia have extensive experience in this matter. However, the fate of many missing people remains uncertain, Mesic stressed. Former PM of Moldova: 'I hope that Azerbaijan will receive information about missing citizens' The former Prime Minister of Moldova, Chiril Gaburici, expressed hope that Baku and Yerevan will be able to achieve the required level of communications and that Azerbaijan will receive information about the fate of its missing citizens. At the international conference Increasing national and global efforts to clarify the fate of missing persons in Baku, Chiril Gaburici recalled that the number of Azerbaijani citizens missing during the First Karabakh War reached 4,000 people. Chiril Gaburici also emphasized that all over the world it is necessary to assist families who have lost their loved ones. The most important thing is that we must learn to avoid conflicts, he said. Kyrgyzstan's ex-PM: Conference on missing persons - very timely and necessary The conference on missing persons in Azerbaijan, where today the fate of almost 4,000 citizens remains unclear, is very timely and necessary, former Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan Djoomart Otorbaev said. Otorbaev spoke at the international conference Increasing national and global efforts to clarify the fate of missing persons, which began today in Baku. "This conference in Baku is very timely and necessary. Today it is necessary to focus on raising awareness on this issue, adopting the best global practices, understanding how to make dialogue and discussion on this issue sustainable in order to achieve results," he said. According to him, today this conference involves people who have all the necessary experience in this matter. He emphasized the need to continue work on this issue in order to help the Azerbaijani people and families learn about the fate of the missing. Ana Birchall: Armenia, violating international conventions, does not provide information about the fate of missing people Armenia, violating the requirements of international conventions, refuses to provide information about the fate of missing Azerbaijanis, former Deputy Prime Minister of Romania Ana Birchall said at the international conference Increasing national and global efforts to clarify the fate of missing persons in Baku. Ana Birchall emphasized that about 4,000 Azerbaijani citizens are still missing, which indicates the significant scale of the problem. "Many families still cannot get any information about their loved ones. I hope that at the next conference, we will be able to celebrate progress in this matter," she said. The politician also noted that she always believed in the great potential for the development of relations between Romania and Azerbaijan. She recalled that she visited the city of Shusha two months ago. "With each visit, I see more and more progress in the reconstruction of the Garabagh region," she said. David Merkel: Tragedies that occurred 30 years ago cannot be ignored The tragedies that occurred 30 years ago cannot be ignored, and therefore it is very important to learn about the fate of the victims of these tragedies, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs David Merkel said at the international conference Increasing national and global efforts to clarify the fate of missing persons in Baku. Merkel noted that he has been visiting Azerbaijan for 25 years and is well aware of the Khojaly genocide. This is an important moment in the history of Azerbaijan, he said. There is also a personal moment here - people have lost their loved ones and do not know about their fate, he added. He said that the US is still trying to determine the fate of those killed during World War II. The search for the remains of those killed during the attack on Pearl Harbor is underway, he noted, expressing hope that the US, together with other countries, will assist in the implementation of direct dialogue between countries. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 18 September 2023 17:43 (UTC+04:00) Separatists in Garabagh demand $4,000 a person, from those who want to go to Armenia together with Russian peacekeepers, Armenian blogger Natalie Aleksanyan wrote on social media, Azernews reports. "Earlier we were told that it was Azerbaijan blocking people's crossing, but now it has become known that the separatist regime in Garabagh, which is acting together with peacekeepers, is to blame. They have taken a lot of money from people," she said. Aleksanyan also contacted her friends living in Garabagh and they confirmed this information. Thus, the lies of Armenians and the separatist regime in Garabagh about the "blockade" were once again exposed. Azerbaijan has not blocked a single road. Free movement of persons of Armenian origin is ensured daily from the Lachin border checkpoint. To recall, Food cargo vehicles will be delivered to the Armenian minority living in Azerbaijans Khankendi along the Aghdam-Khankendi road. Last day, an agreement was reached simultaneously to use the Aghdam-Khankendi road with the Lachin-Khankendi road for the delivery of food cargo to Garabagh. The food cargo will be transported by ICRC vehicles. Today, the ICRC will deliver food supplies to the Armenian minority in Garabagh through the Lachin-Khankendi road and the Aghdam-Khankendi roads simultaneously. The food cargo will be transported by ICRC vehicles. In the wake of the customs control ICRC food truck moved to Azerbaijan's Khankendi. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 18 September 2023 18:15 (UTC+04:00) As part of the European Union`s ERASMUS programme, representatives of the G. S. Rakovski National Defence College of the Republic of Bulgaria visited Azerbaijan, Azernews reports, citing the Ministry. The Military Administration Institute of the National Defence University hosted a meeting with the Bulgarian delegation. The meeting discussed the issues of the Military Administration Institute`s foreign language teachers training, assessment, STANAG test compilation and exchange of experience in the field of curriculum development. It should be noted that within the framework of the visit, the delegation is planned to conduct demonstrative lessons. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 18 September 2023 08:00 (UTC+04:00) A firefighting helicopter crashed into a dam with four people onboard while responding to a forest fire in western Izmir province, official said early Sunday, Azernews reports, citing Anadolu Agency. Turkish Agriculture and Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli wrote on X that the chopper crashed into the Tahtali Dam in the Menderes district after it lost contact with the team. Yumakli said one of the four personnel was rescued and search and rescue efforts continue for the rest. The forest fire broke out in the Keler neighborhood for unknown reasons. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 18 September 2023 22:35 (UTC+04:00) Georgia's air navigation service provider Sakaeronavigatsia has joined the New Pan-European Network Service, a communications network created by European providers of air navigation services, Azernews reports, citing Agenda. Supported by Eurocontrol, a pan-European, civil and military organisation supporting European aviation, NewPENS now connects bodies in 47 countries and over 100 locations, with work for the Georgian provider to integrate having started in 2021. Georgias Ministry of Economy on Monday said by joining the network Georgia will become able to exchange information directly with European countries. Through the network, it is already possible to distribute international aviation meteorological reports in the World Aviation Meteorological Bank in digital IWXXM format, said Gocha Mezvrishvili, the General Director of Sakaeronavigatsia. Sakaeronavigatsia, Eurocontrol and BT Global Service, a company that provides global security, cloud and networking services to multinational companies worldwide, signed a deal in January 2022 as part of the Georgian bodys efforts for integrating into the network. NewPENS provides infrastructure for exchanging critical and common aeronautical information, as described by Eurocontrol. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz The Royal Humanitarian Foundation, under the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, has sent its first shipment of relief aid to victims of floods in Libya. Read More: His Majesty King Hamad Directs Dispatch of Humanitarian Aid to Libya The shipment contained medical supplies and other aid supplies. As of Sep. 17, the death toll from the catastrophic floods in eastern Libya surpassed 11,000, according to the Libyan Red Crescent. Read More: Bahrain To Send Aid to Morocco After Earthquake More than 9,000 people are still missing, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). His Highness Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa emphasized that Bahrain stands with the people of Libya during this difficult time. During this time of crisis, Bahrain seeks to strengthen international solidarity to bring all kinds of people together! Image source: RHF Instagram Page Contributing columnist Jose Gaspar is a news anchor/reporter for Telemundo Bakersfield and KGET. Email him at elcompa29@gmail.com. The views expressed here are his own. Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. California filed a new lawsuit against big oil and gas companies. This was confirmed by state officials on Saturday, Sept. 16. The legal action claims that gas and oil firms deceived the public regarding the risks posed by fossil fuels. California Files Lawsuit Against Big Oil, Gas Companies According to NBC News' latest report, California's latest lawsuit accuses oil and gas companies of deceiving the public regarding the effects of fossil fuels. The civil lawsuit filed in the state Superior Court in San Francisco states that fossil fuels are responsible for wildfires, as well as climate change-related storms. Californian officials said that these natural disasters already caused billions of dollars in damages. Governor Gavin Newsom said that the companies included in the lawsuit should be held accountable. These firms include Chevron, Shell, Exxon Mobil, BP, and ConocoPhillips. "For more than 50 years, Big Oil has been lying to us - covering up the fact that they've long known how dangerous the fossil fuels they produce are for our planet," said Newsom. He added that the taxes paid by Californian residents should not be used for the damages caused by fossil fuels. These include record-breaking drought parching, deadly heat waves, air pollution, and wildfires. Read Also: California Labor Groups, Fast Food Companies Agree To Raise Minimum Salary to $20 Why California's Lawsuit is a Big Deal CBS News reported that California's lawsuit against oil and gas companies is a big deal because it makes the U.S. state the first one to take these firms to court. "It is time they pay to abate the harm they have caused. We will meet the moment and fight tirelessly on behalf of all Californians, in particular those who live in environmental justice communities," said Bonta. Kassie Siegel, the Climate Law Institute at the Center for Biological Diversity's director, also explained the importance of civil legal action. Siegel said that the lawsuit will help California to address climate change. The environmental expert added that the legal action seeks to stop big oil and gas companies from fooling the public when it comes to the effects of their activities. Right now, California's lawsuit is seeking to force oil and gas companies to pay for the recovery efforts from wildfires and storms. You can click this link to learn more about this lawsuit. Related Article: California: TVUSD School Board Accepts New Curriculum; School Materials Mention Gay Rights Now Allowed @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Fiery DUI Crash on S. Oregon Coast Illustrates Importance of Dune Safety, Sobriety Published 09/11/23 at 8:27 p.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Coos Bay, Oregon) The high-density holiday weekend on the Oregon coast often yields at least one tragedy or another, but some can definitely be avoided. (Photo Coos County Sheriff's) Case in point: September 2 saw a fiery crash on the Oregon Dune National Recreation Area (ODNRA) near Coos Bay, after a side-by-side ATV plowed nose-first into a steep sand dune. Coos County Sheriff's office believed the driver to be drunk, causing injuries to himself and the unnamed passenger. No other vehicles were involved. On September 2, Coos County Dispatch received a 911 call about 7:25 p.m., reporting an ATV on fire at the Hauser Flat area. Hauser Fire Department was already on the scene when Coos County Deputy MR Smith arrived 7:34 p.m., and the flames were extinguished by this time. At this point, the passenger of the vehicle was already en route to the Bay Area Hospital (BAH) with what the Coos County Sheriff's office called significant injuries. The driver, 43-year-old Jamison Ellis, was also transported to the hospital. During the investigation, Deputy Smith learned that Mr. Ellis was seen driving erratically around Hauser Flats and V6 Hill, said Coos County Sheriff Gabe Fabrizio. Mr. Ellis was seen doing this with a passenger and had reached estimated speeds of 65-70 mph while driving over V6 Hill. The vehicle cleared a large distance before slamming nose-first into a flat portion of Hauser Flat and catching fire. A variety of witnesses came to the rescue of the crashed vehicle, and in spite of the fire, slowly extricated the passenger who was trapped in the side-by-side. At the hospital, Deputy Smith's investigation revealed Ellis was allegedly intoxicated, Fabrezio said. Deputy Smith provided Mr. Ellis with a criminal citation for DUII. Still, the final charging determination will be made by the Coos County District Attorneys Office and could include additional charges, Fabrezio said. Fabrezio thanked the Hauser Fire Department for a quick response and all the good samaritans for rendering assistance. Oregon Coast Hotels in this area - South Coast Hotels - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW Photos above courtesy Florence Visitors Center. Below: photos courtesy Oregon's Adventure Coast More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Andre' GW Hagestedt is editor, owner and primary photographer / videographer of Oregon Coast Beach Connection, an online publication that sees over 1 million pageviews per month. He is also author of several books about the coast. LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Archived Results for Monday, September 18th, 2023 Newer Older Entries Page 1 Page 2 Three days after its ruling in North Carolina's Moore v. Harper redistricting case, the U,S. Supreme Court has ordered Ohio's top court to apply that ruling to a Buckeye State battle over a congressional election map.In an order issued Friday before justices shut down their work for the summer, the high court granted a plea from Ohio legislative leaders to take up the case Huffman v. Neiman. The court vacated an earlier ruling from the Ohio Supreme Court. Justices in Washington, D.C., called for justices in Columbus, Ohio, to give the caseCarolina Journal reported in January that the U.S. Supreme Court could take the Huffman case if it decided to drop Moore v. Harper. At the time, it was unclear whether justices in Washington, D.C., would issue a ruling in the N.C. dispute or drop the case.Unlike North Carolina, Ohio employs a redistricting commission to draw its statewide election maps. Yet the commission has not freed the Buckeye State from partisan disputes over district lines.A federal court allowed Ohio to proceed with 2022 congressional elections using maps declared unconstitutional by the state's top court.Legislative leaders in Columbus asked the U.S. Supreme Court to reject the Ohio courts' actions.according to a brief filed with the U.S. Supreme Court in late December.Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost represents legislative leaders, along with a Cincinnati-based private firm. Raleigh-based attorneys who have worked for N.C. legislators in Moore v. Harper also serve as special counsel for Ohio legislative leaders.according to the brief.Ohio legislators argued.Defenders of the Ohio Supreme Court's actions claim state justices merely interpreted and applied the law.Ohio legislators responded.Not only did the Ohio Supreme Court decide that Democrats should win at least six of the state's 15 congressional races.according to the brief.As in Moore v. Harper, critics of Ohio state courts' action sought clarity from the U.S. Supreme Court.Now Ohio's Supreme Court will apply Moore v. Harper to the Buckeye State election map fight. Justices in Washington, D.C., have indicated that they could reject state courts' approach to federal Elections Clause cases under certain circumstances.Chief Justice John Roberts wrote for the 6-3 majority. This post appears here courtesy of the Carolina Journal . The author of this post is CJ Staff The United States Supreme Court released an opinion Friday on whether President Joe Biden can unilaterally forgive more than $400 billion in student loan debt for an estimated 250 million people. The high court found that such a sweeping plan must be passed through the legislative branch.In 2022, Biden attempted to make good on a key campaign promise through the Higher Education Relief Opportunities for Students Act of 2003 (HEROES Act) which allowed the executive branch's Secretary of Education to make changes to student loans during a state of emergency, like the coronavirus pandemic shutdowns.wrote Chief Justice John Roberts in the majority opinion.The 6-3 decision found that Biden's authority only extended to limited instances or modification to loans. For instance, the agency could forgive loans for those who become public servants or are permanently disabled.Roberts wrote.In a dissenting opinion Justices Kagan, Sotomayor, and Jackson said that the high court overstepped its authority in ruling on the case because Congress gave the executive branch authority to makechanges in an emergency, saying that student loan debt meets that requirement.the dissent reads.Response to the decision was quick as #cancelstudentdebt spiked on Twitter and groups called to rally outside the Supreme Court building in Washington, D.C. on Friday. Cancelling student loan debt was a cornerstone of Biden's presidential campaign platform in the 2020 election.Support for the decision has been equally vocal, with many calling it a win for taxpayers as debate grows over national debt and the value of higher education.said Jenna Robinson of the Martin Center for Academic Renewal. Yes, the Religion of Woke must continue; there are so many groups of underprivileged, underserved, a direct result of unrelenting Inequity; they deserve everything. No; the Woke fools must be toppled from their self-anointed pedestal; a functioning society of a good Constitutional people cannot withstand this level of "existential" favoritism as it exists now. I just observe; with this thoughtful observation: What will happen "when the Vikings are breeching our walls;" how do the Woke react? 808 total vote(s) What's your Opinion? This post appears here courtesy of ECU News Services . The author of this post is Lacey L. Gray The ancestors of all spiders were venomous, but there are two groups of spiders today - one in the United States - that are no longer toxic.East Carolina University's Dr. Michael Brewer, director of biology graduate studies and associate professor of biology in the Thomas Harriot College of Arts and Sciences, and Hannah Pankey, a junior biology major at Fayetteville State University (FSU), are examining why one of these families still has the proteins that once made it venomous.Pankey is one of 12 students participating in ECU's STEM Summer Immersion Program - a 10-week, full-time, paid summer internship - funded by a $1.3 million North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) Foundation grant.During her internship, Pankey is working with Brewer to analyze spider venom protein sequences for evidence of natural selection relating to venom toxicity, behavior, life history and mating systems. The work may lead to potential agricultural and pharmaceutical benefits.For example, Brewer said spider venoms are currently used in pesticides, since they are designed to kill insects. Therapeutic venoms, such as certain scorpion venoms, are used in some cancer drugs, and the venom from a spider in Australia - administered nasally into the blood stream of stroke patients by paramedics who are first on the scene - has been shown to cause retention of brain tissue that would have died without the treatment.Pankey is learning basic computational skills and bioinformatic analyses, skills that easily extend to other areas of study, including human medical studies and toxicology - an area she is interested in pursuing.Brewer said.Pankey said.According to Brewer, all living spiders either are venomous or have vestigial venom glands, and only two groups of spiders no longer produce venom. One of these is a relic group found in Southeast Asia that is a sister to all other spiders. It looks like a tarantula or a trapdoor spider, but it is not closely related.he said.Brewer said that all spiders found in the U.S. are venomous except for one family - Uloboridae spiders, commonly known as orb weavers.Because spiders can produce tens of thousands of different venom proteins, Brewer said he wonders what happens when spiders stop producing venom. Are the venom proteins still expressed? He said he has some preliminary evidence that the answer is yes, but then the next step is determining how they are different. Are they still being secreted? Are they being used in internal cellular physiology?Therefore, this summer, Brewer and Pankey examined all the genes that are expressed in the uloborid spiders.Brewer said.If venom proteins are being expressed, Brewer said they can examine whether the proteins look meaningfully different from other spiders that still use them as a venom. He said they can look at how the venom proteins are different and which parts make it dangerous.With the information they gain through their project, Brewer and Pankey may conclude that the uloborid spiders are using the venomous proteins, but perhaps for something other than what their ancestors used them - protection and defense. Brewer said they won't be able to answer the question of what the proteins are used for with this project, but that it gets them started in that direction.Pankey, who is considering furthering her education by pursuing a doctoral degree in toxicology once she completes her degree at FSU, said the ECU internship experience is beneficial. She may attend ECU for her graduate degree, and she wants to learn more computational biology and computer programming.she said.During the 40-hour-a-week internship, Pankey participated in fieldwork, which is a big component of Brewer's research, and she received some chemistry experience, which is helpful in studying venoms and in her potential career as a toxicologist. As School Choice is beginning to take shape in North Carolina: What is your position on what it should evolve into? 3.85% School Choice is only a distraction from the promise of real public education.92.31% School Choice, as it evolves into its best model to serve the public' s education needs, this benefit will provide choices outside of the historic construct supporting the public school monopoly.3.85% School Choice - I cannot see how it serves the Education Industry. Mafia-like legislative leaders Phil Berger in the Senate and Tim Moore in the House are determined to force North Carolina to accept casinos across the state, and word is that they are even willing to sell out to the Dmeocrats on key issues to get them. Meanwhile, Lt. Governor Mark Robinson, who claims to be a conservative stalwart has gone silent on the issue, after taking $8,000 from casino interests. The growing ties between Robinson and RINO Democrat enabler Sen. Phil Berger are becoming a huge concern about Robinson. Meanwhile other candidates for governor are openly blasting Merger and Moore's casino deal. This is an unfortunate pattern, as Robinson has been faily consistently missing in action on key policy issues - Obamacare Medicaid expansion, mariguana, and the Green New Deal, to name a few. The latest is that Tim Moore is working to strip Republican programs from the budget to get Democrat votes to pass it, just to get their casinos. Also likely involved is a controversial m assive slush fund boondoggle called NCInnovation that reeks of the classic fascist economic doctrine of "the corporate state". https://dailyhaymaker.com/when-back-stabbing-weasels-stab-each-other/ https://dailyhaymaker.com/would-you-like-a-sketchy-land-grab-to-go-along-with-your-sleazy-casino-shenanigans/ https://dailyhaymaker.com/timmy-grovels-to-democrats-on-casino-deal/ https://dailyhaymaker.com/walker-tries-to-drag-robinson-into-final-battle-against-casinos/ Iran seizes U.S.-made arms, equipment in southern waters Xinhua) 14:53, September 18, 2023 TEHRAN, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- Iranian intelligence forces have seized a large batch of contraband American arms and equipment from a vessel upon its entry into the country's southern waters, the country's Tasnim news agency reported on Sunday. The shipment, containing more than 6,000 stun guns, was seized in an operation off the coast of the southern port city of Bandar-e Khamir in Hormozgan province, Tasnim quoted provincial Chief Justice Mojtaba Qahremani as saying. Two suspects have been arrested over their involvement in the case, the official said, adding that initial investigations indicate that the shipment was carried into Iran to "cause riots" in the country in the coming days. (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun) An F-35 stealth fighter jet is currently missing after the recent training mishap of the U.S. Marine Corps. The military aircraft disappeared on Sunday, Sept. 17. If you want to help find the missing jet, here are the major details you need to know. [BREAKING] F-35 Stealth Fighter Jet Now Missing According to Gizmodo's latest report, the training an F-35B Lightning II fighter jet went missing on Sept. 17. Luckily, the pilot inside the aircraft was able to eject and parachute away safely. The jet operator was able to reach the ground near Charleston, South Carolina. After that, the pilot was taken to a local hospital. Right now, the military personnel are in a safe condition. "We can confirm a mishap involving an F-35B Lightning II jet from Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT) 501 with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing," said the U.S. Marine Corps' spokesperson via Business Insider. The official explained that they are still gathering more information regarding the incident. They are also assessing the situation in order to find the missing fighter jet. As of writing, the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort is cooperating with the Joint Base Charleston. They are currently focusing on the Northern area of the base, which surrounds Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie. "Emergency response teams are still trying to locate the F-35," said the Joint Base Charleston. Read Also: Denmark, Netherlands Supply F-16 Jets to Ukraine in 'Historic' Agreement How Can You Help Find the Missing F-35 The Joint Base Charleston said that the public is encouraged to cooperate with civilian and military authorities to find the missing fighter jet. Via its official Facebook post, the military facility said that those with the information can contact the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Public Affairs Office at 252-466-3827. Some Facebook users are sharing useful information based on their research. One of them said that a reliable source revealed that the jet was flying west/southwest to Lake Marion's dam. Meanwhile, others are just making fun of the missing aircraft; sharing memes featuring the fighter jet. "Finders keepers," said one of the Facebook users. If you want to see what others say about the missing military aircraft, you can click here. Related Article: Denmark, Netherlands Supply F-16 Jets to Ukraine in 'Historic' Agreement @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Recent political events and behaviors are un-nerving at best and scary at worst. Having an incompetent, if not mentally challenged person who could be guilty of treason at worst and taking bribes at best along with hundreds of Senators and Congressmen who refuse to take action, is bringing on a mental depression. The opening of our borders to the unqualified, uneducated and undeserving of the entire world brings on more anxiety. Then there is the Trump situation. Is everyone crazy or am I floating in some suspended state of mind, maybe a bad dream? Presuming I am still connected to reality, it is in the best interest of those of us who are still normal to critically think our way out of this dilemma. Acting harshly or overtly or violently will certainly set us back. These kinds of behaviors are what our enemies are looking for. They are hoping (they are not praying because they are not religious at all) that we will make some serious mistakes that will allow them to use the (Marshall) law on us to install their socialist/communist dictatorship. Our hearts and souls will be tried many times from now until after November of 2024. With the chief Communist, Barak Obama, running the White house (His former staff are in charge) you can rest assured there are plans to take the 2024 presidency by strong arm robbery should the Democrats accidently lose the election. Be aware they have plans to stuff the ballot boxes. We, the loyal, Christian citizens still have some tools to start turning this nation back toward the Constitution and our Christian ethics. Christian ethics is the correct term. This nation was founded by Christians who used the teaching of the Bible to craft our form of government. Please do not be gullible and buy into the Socialist/Communist definition of the separation of church and state. All the Constitution ever said was the government could not establish a state religion. It never implied religion to be evil. We can still vote to change leadership from the dog catcher to the President. It is important to change leadership because those who now hold office have put us in harms way. It is important to remove those who have not stood up for our conservative values and replace them with rock ribbed conservatives who are both Christian and brave. All voters should make a harsh judgment about elected officials. The tendency is to be kind to that politician who has appeared to be neutral, who took no action or voted against us. It is more important to judge that politician on whether he took action for us. Neutral is the same as Jesus Christs teaching about water being neither hot or cold and is to be spewed from our mouth. We know that water that is either cold or hot has little chance of carrying germs that will make us sick. However, warm water is required for germs to flourish. Get rid of those neutral, luke warm politicians. They are the carrier of germs. We have now entered the fish or cut bait part of the 2024 elections. In order to be placed on a political party ballot for the 2024 primary elections, one must have been registered to vote by political party by sooner than 90 days before they register to run for office. That time is over. Unaffiliated (independent) voters who want to run in the 2024 elections must now submit a petition signed by a certain number of voters in order to be on the ballot. From now until the end of candidate registration, during middle December, political parties can recruit only those who are now registered to vote in their respective party. The Beaufort County Conservative Club, and hopefully others across the entire United States, are recruiting candidates to replace at least 90 percent of those who now hold office. Only ten percent of the elected officials from the dog catcher to the President of the United States have stood up for truth, justice and the American way. Considering the twilight zone or foggy bottom we are now in, the 2024 election should be a throw the bums out election year. The municipal elections are our first opportunity to make important changes. We need to send a message by participating in those elections and rolling out those who have not stood for conservative Christian values. Remember the rule, if you are not sure, vote him out. Distractions put up by the crooked press and the Democrats have led us away from our Constitutional principles, our Christian Religion and morals. Our society has become infected with drugs and welfare. We need drastic change in government. Changing the people who are running government is the only way to do it. We have commissioners, who, during the past year have voted to remove the Confederate Memorial from Arlington National Cemetery and want to start government sponsored housing programs in Beaufort County. Commissioner Randy Walker voted to allow the Confederate Monument to be torn down. Commissioner John Rebholz along with Randy Walker is trying to find a way for the government to provide affordable housing in Beaufort County. There are numerous reasons for the government not to become involved in providing housing. Public housing leads to more socialism and fewer people working. Why should your tax money provide a house for anyone. Let them work for it the same way the rest of us did. There is always corruption around these schemes with a few people being favored as builders, suppliers of materials and labor and especially those who get a house with little effort on their own. These two financial geniuses have forgotten that in capitalist society markets correct themselves. The price of housing will come down as soon as the Federal Government stops sending all those checks. Ask Rebholtz and Walker what provision in the U. S. Constitution gives the Federal government the authority to provide affordable housing. Robert Soucy Jr., DO, of Columbia, N.H., was indicted on 12 counts of unlawful distribution of opioids and benzodiazepines. Dr. Soucy, 70, allegedly distributed fentanyl, oxycodone, hydromorphone, methadone, lorazepam, and diazepam to individuals outside the usual course of professional practice and without a legitimate medical purpose, according to a Sept. 15 news release from the Justice Department. He surrendered his DEA registration and did not renew his medical license which means he is no longer permitted to prescribe controlled substances. If convicted, Dr. Soucy faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each count, according to the release. Here are six gastroenterology updates Becker's has reported on since Oct. 4: 1. The Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology signed a joint research agreement with Tokyo-based medtech start-up AI Medical Service, which is focused on the development of diagnostic endoscopic artificial intelligence. 2. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts added Oshi Health and Virta Health to its network to grow virtual care options for patients dealing with gastrointestinal conditions and diabetes. 3. On Aug. 1, the American Gastroenterological Association penned a letter to UnitedHealthcare calling on the insurer to withdraw its advanced notification program for gastrointestinal care. UHC since has offered "no details, no information and no response," according to an Oct. 11 statement from the AGA. 4. WebMD and Medscape have partnered to name the 63 best hospitals for gastroenterological care in 2023 based on survey data from thousands of patients and providers. 5. Woodland Park-based Gastroenterology Associates of New Jersey and virtual care provider Oshi Health partnered to offer hybrid care options. 6. Robert Schoen, MD, and Dhiraj Yadav, MD professors at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine received 2024 Research Mentor Awards from the American Gastroenterological Association. GE HealthCare received a $44 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to develop AI-assisted ultrasound imaging tools. Caption Health, a medical AI technology company acquired by GE Healthcare in February, will be responsible for creating the tools, according to a Sept. 18 news release from GE. The tools will aim to assist healthcare professionals, including those without specialized ultrasound training, to make clinical decisions for more effective obstetric and lung screening ultrasound scans. More than 250 hospitals and health systems are urging Congress to halt the $8 billion reduction to Medicaid disproportionate share hospital funding, set to begin Oct. 1. The funding cuts, part of the Affordable Care Act, will curb Medicaid DSH funding by $8 billion in fiscal years 2024 through 2027 a $32 billion reduction total. In their Sept. 14 appeal to Congress, safety-net hospitals urged lawmakers to "eliminate, at a minimum" the $16 billion in cuts scheduled for fiscal years 2024 and 2025. The Medicaid DSH program, established in the 1980s, provides financial support to hospitals that serve a significantly disproportionate number of low-income patients and the under- and uninsured. "The need for DSH funding is even greater now, as hospital expenses per patient have increased significantly since the pandemic," the hospitals, represented by the association America's Essential Hospitals, wrote to Congress. They said ongoing high levels of uncompensated care nationwide make Medicaid DSH cuts indefensible. The American Hospital Association has noted, in separate communication, that the scheduled cuts would coincide with a "difficult transition" for the Medicaid program, as states are reviewing eligibility and disenrolling people who no longer qualify for Medicaid after the COVID-19 public health emergency ended in May. The ACA included Medicaid DSH cuts under the reasoning that hospitals would care for fewer uninsured patients as health insurance coverage expanded. Congress has previously staved off the cuts 11 times, in bipartisan fashion. Hospitals' appeal comes as Congress hurries to wrap up its appropriations process and pass a funding bill by Sept. 30. Inability to pass a funding bill could result in a partial or complete shutdown of the federal agency and services and risk programs due to end at the end of the fiscal year without Congressional action. The House of Representatives is preparing for a Republican-led continuing resolution a stopgap bill that would extend the funding deadline by one month that is unlikely to proceed in the Democrat-controlled Senate. Alison Brown, RN, president of University of Maryland Medical Center's Midtown Campus in Baltimore, knows that it takes data to move the needle forward on health equity in a measurable way. As she puts it, "If you don't have the data that says here's the outcome for a person with congestive heart failure, who's Black versus white, then you don't really know whether you're making a difference with the interventions that you put in place." One example of how data has informed intervention at her specific organization involves discharge and follow-up care. Ms. Brown said University of Maryland Medical Center is able to access certain data through The Vizient Clinical Data Base healthcare analytics platform, and it became clear that patients discharged from the hospital with congestive heart failure have comparable outcomes irrespective of race. "But we also know that when we use our data to say what percentage of people discharged from the hospital with congestive heart failure are actually getting a follow-up not just an appointment for follow-up care with their primary care physician or a cardiologist, but actually are seen by a primary care physician or cardiologist there continues to be variation," she told Becker's. Ms. Brown said these findings resulted in implementing a new approach in which every patient being discharged from the hospital either in the emergency room or being discharged after having an inpatient stay with that diagnosis is tracked to ensure they are seen by a provider within 14 days. The tracking extends beyond patients with congestive heart failure. University of Maryland Medical Center also tracks other clinical conditions to ensure at least 80 percent of the people who need intervention are being seen. "That means you have to work with the primary care practices," Ms. Brown explained. "You have to work with the cardiology practice and make sure that when we say this patient needs an appointment within 14 days or 12 days, that's actually happening." Ms. Brown has been focused on health equity work since being named to the top role at UMMC's Midtown Campus in 2018. This includes also addressing access to healthcare in West Baltimore, particularly for those with heart disease, diabetes, obesity, hypertension, kidney disease, asthma, mental health disorders and cancers. Over the last three years, her organization has made substantial investments in expanding the number of primary care providers and the number of subspecialists, Ms. Brown said. And the hospital now has a connected care model among primary care and specialists on the campus. Through this model, "We make sure our diabetes patients can be seen by a kidney specialist, an eye specialist and a foot specialist all in the same day. And the folks who sit at our check-in and check-out desk make sure we don't send them out with a long list of instructions and say, 'Go make all these appointments.' We send them out with all those connections made," Ms. Brown said. Overall, it's a way to help shepherd people through what can be a disconnected, uncoordinated, challenging way of getting the care they need, and from a financial standpoint, helps those who can't afford parking for three separate visits, she said. This is the approach Ms. Brown set out to achieve with the opening of the medical center's Midtown outpatient tower in 2021, Tiffani Washington, a hospital spokesperson, told Becker's. The 10-story building adjacent to the main hospital was designed to allow academic physicians, nurses, therapists, social workers, pharmacists and community health workers to come together under one roof. "Early data confirms that linking all the experts involved in a patient's care from diagnosis, to tailored treatment, to a host of wraparound services and support drives significant improvements to health outcomes and patient experience," Ms. Washington said. Ms. Brown is retiring from her role on Sept. 19. But she said she plans to continue to be involved in addressing issues like food insecurity, economic instability, housing instability, transportation and other social needs directly related to health outcomes in West Baltimore. Tom Thompson is stepping down as president and chief operating officer of Porter Medical Center in Middlebury, Vt. Mr. Thompson is leaving to "focus his time and energy on a pressing family health matter," according to a Sept. 13 news release. Bob Ortmyer will serve as the hospital's interim president and COO in addition to his current roles with its parent company, Burlington-based University of Vermont Health Network. He will divide his time between Porter and Elizabethtown (N.Y.) Community Hospital, where he also holds the presidency. This transition is effective Sept. 18, and Mr. Thompson's departure is not necessarily final, a spokesperson for the hospital told Becker's. Editor's Note: This story was updated Sept. 20 to include a comment from the hospital. COVID-19 hospital admissions and deaths have risen for the eighth consecutive week, according to the CDC's most recent data tracking these metrics through Sept. 2. While the number of admissions and deaths are lower than what they were in years past, the numbers are once again climbing from record lows. There were 18,871 new COVID-19 admissions during the week ending Sept. 2. For context, in 2022, there were 34,546 new admissions for the same week, and in 2021, they were at 84,235, according to CDC's historical data. Here are five additional updates: 1. In anticipation of the coming fall respiratory virus season, the CDC published information Sept. 14 detailing two separate scenarios regarding how COVID-19 could play out in the months ahead. In one scenario, the CDC predicts that COVID-19 admissions will peak three weeks prior to flu and RSV for a combined hospitalization rate that is roughly 20 percent lower than last year's. In the other scenario, the CDC predicts a severe upcoming flu season in which COVID-19 hospitalizations peak around the same time as flu and RSV infections. This would cause the hospitalization rate to be the same as last year, according to the agency. 2. Two hallmark COVID-19 symptoms, a dry cough and loss of sense of taste or smell, are evolving as time goes on and new strains of the virus dominate, according to a Sept. 16 report from NBC News. Physicians say that some of the main symptoms from COVID-19 infections in the past are dwindling and have become much less common. However, in place of those symptoms, physicians are increasingly treating patients for congestion and a sore throat. "It isn't the same typical symptoms that we were seeing before. It's a lot of congestion, sometimes sneezing, usually a mild sore throat," Erick Eiting, MD, the vice chair of operations for emergency medicine at Mount Sinai Downtown in New York City, told NBC. Physicians in the U.K. are reportedly also seeing this trend, according to NBC. 3. The World Health Organization is pressing China on the origins of COVID-19, the Financial Times reported Sept. 16. The organization has asked for permission from the country's leaders before sending a team to visit Beijing, which would be the second WHO visit since January 2020. The proposed second mission would be focused on how the COVID-19 pandemic began. There are two leading theories, a lab leak or a zoonotic leap from animals to humans, but the WHO plans to investigate all possible virology pathways. "We will get the answer. It's a matter of time," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, PhD, told the Financial Times. 4. The new COVID-19 vaccine formulas, which exclusively focus on the XBB.1.5 variant, are not boosters, according to experts. Moving away from the term "booster" is part of an effort to change the perception of the COVID-19 vaccination schedule to be more similar to influenza, or an updated vaccine every fall. 5. A slight majority, or 53 percent, of Americans are interested in receiving the new COVID-19 vaccine, according to a poll conducted by Reuters and Ipos. This is an increase from fall 2022, when about 20 percent of people eligible for the vaccine received it, according to CDC data. Twenty-nine percent of respondents said they were very interested in getting the vaccine, and 24 percent were somewhat interested, according to the poll. About 17 percent were not interested and 30 percent said they were not interested at all. An advocacy organization is asking the Missouri Health Department to decertify accreditation of a three-bed urgent care center due to the facility's proposed name, The St. Louis American reported Sept. 15. The not-yet-opened Homer G. Phillips Memorial Hospital is being scrutinized for using Mr. Phillips' name. A lawsuit filed by the Homer G. Phillips Nurses' Alumni group argues the name violates its trademark and developers appropriated the name to "trade on and profit from" the original hospital's name recognition. A letter sent by Change the Name Coalition said, "Such a small and limited facility is an insult to the name Homer G. Phillips given that the name was originally associated with a 600-bed acute care hospital from 1937 to 1979," and to grant accreditation under that name "would be disrespectful to history and unfair to the Homer G. Phillips Nurses Alumni Inc." The federal trademark infringement lawsuit, which was filed in July 2022, is set to start trial Jan. 8. The original hospital was named after Mr. Phillips, an influential attorney who campaigned for the city to set aside money for a new hospital to serve Black communities. He was shot and died in 1931. Homer G. Phillips Hospital opened in 1937 and served Black residents during segregation as well as drew Black physicians and nurses. The hospital closed in 1979, and today the building is used for apartments for older adults. Some community members have argued that using the late civil rights leader's name for the new hospital is cultural appropriation. A New York nurse pleaded guilty to forging COVID-19 vaccination record cards and illegally obtaining prescriptions for oxycodone for herself in the name of relatives. Julie DeVuono, a nurse practitioner and owner and operator of Amityville, N.Y.-based Wild Child Pediatric Healthcare, and her employee, Marissa Urraro, a licensed practical nurse, allegedly used their positions with the New York State Department of Health to obtain COVID-19 shots, along with COVID-19 vaccination cards and medical syringes, prosecutors said. From November 2021 to January 2022, the pair allegedly forged the vaccination cards, entered the false information into the New York State Immunization Information System database, and charged up to $350 for each false entry. Prosecutors said law enforcement found about $900,000 in Ms. DeVuono's home, along with a ledger documenting profits of more than $1.5 million from the alleged scheme. The investigation also found between February 10, 2019, and Aug. 14, 2021, Ms. DeVuono submitted false prescriptions for oxycodone to local pharmacies that had false entries with other people's names, some of whom were her relatives. She obtained and kept the controlled substance for herself, according to a Sept. 15 press release from the Suffolk County district attorney's office. On Sept. 15, Ms. DeVuono and her corporation pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering in the second degree, one count of forgery in the second degree and one count of offering a false instrument for filing in the first degree. She and the corporation agreed to forfeit criminal proceeds totaling more than $1.25 million. Ms. DeVuono also surrendered her nursing licenses and her certificate of incorporation. She is due to be sentenced Nov. 17. Pennsylvania's juvenile detention center escapees were finally captured by the police authorities. Some of them reportedly gave up the hunt, allowing officers to arrest them. Here are other details you need to know about the nine teenagers who recently escaped. Juveline Detention Center Escapees in Pennsylvania Finally Captured According to CNN Edition's latest report, the police announced that all nine teenagers who recently escaped from a juvenile detention center in Pennsylvania were finally captured. These juveniles were arrested on Monday, Sept. 18. The escapees are said to be between the ages of 15 and 17 years old. Pennsylvania State Police troop's spokesperson, David Beohm, said that four of the teenagers were captured after giving up; they even knocked on a homeowner's door early on Monday. "They were done, they were tired, they were cold. They basically gave up," he said during a news conference. Meanwhile, the remaining five escapees were quite tough. They were able to steal a vehicle. Luckily, Pennsylvania cops captured them after a pursuit. "I don't know what alerted the homeowners, but they broke the window of the car, lights came on, and then they took off," said Boehm. The state police official announced that the juvenile detention center escapees will be charged with riot, escape, as well as aggravated and simple assaults. Meanwhile, others will face theft by unlawful taking charges. All the teenagers who escaped were arrested, thanks to the efforts of the state and local police departments. Around 60 cops worked overnight just to find the juvenile escapees. They used drones and were assisted by their K-9 dogs during the pursuit operations. Read Also: 6 'Soldiers of Christ' Arrested in Georgia for Killing Woman Later Found in Car Trunk How Teenagers Escaped From Juvenile Detention Center NBC News reported that the teenagers escaped from Abraxas Academy in Morgantown on Sunday, Sept. 17. Authorities explained that the juvenile escapees ran off after a riot broke out at the detention center. Some of them even attacked two prison employees, allowing them to get access to the keys. Cops were able to take control of the riot. But, some juvenile offenders were able to escape the facility. Now, thanks to the efforts of the Pennsylvania State Police and other governmental departments, the juvenile escapees are now in custody. Related Article: Rhode Island: 20-Mile Police Chase Leads to Animal Abuser's Death-Here's What Happened @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Between January 2022 and July 2023, nurses in Massachusetts filed 12,600 unsafe staffing reports, according to a Sept. 18 news release from the state's nursing association. "There is absolutely no question that limiting the number of patients a nurse cares for at one time is safer for patients and is the only solution to the nurse staffing crisis," Katie Murphy, RN, the president of the Massachusetts Nurses Association stated in the release. "Until we ensure that nurses have safe working conditions with enforceable limits on the number of patients assigned to them, nurses will continue to flee the bedside by the thousands seeking a safer, more satisfying environment." Nurses from across the state will testify before lawmakers Sept. 20 in support of advancing staffing requirements for nurses in hospital settings. The legislation they are looking to advance would require the state's department of public health to "create specific nurse-patient limits in hospital units [that] would tackle years of deteriorating patient care quality and burnout that is driving nurses away from the bedside," according to the release. Staffing requirements for nurses is something that hospital groups have repeatedly opposed, citing financial strains, among other concerns. In 2018, voters rejected a similar proposal. Women are less likely than men to receive CPR in public places, but older people, especially older men, are less likely to get CPR in private locations, new research has found. The study, presented at the European Emergency Medicine Congress that took place Sept. 17-20 in Barcelona, Spain, analyzed 39,391 patient records of cardiac arrest outside of the hospital in Canada and the U.S. between 2005 and 2015. Here are three findings: Over the course of 15 years, Houston Methodist Hospital has reduced the sepsis death rate from 35 percent to 6 percent progress driven by unwavering commitment and constant education. "We've saved almost 2,500 lives and around $50-plus million dollars in cost avoidance," Faisal Masud, MD, medical director of the center for critical care at Houston Methodist, told Becker's in early September, which is Sepsis Awareness Month. The CDC recently unveiled a new hospital program focused on enhancing sepsis care and shared seven elements that should be a part of hospital sepsis programs all of which Houston Methodist has been doing for years. Houston Methodist is also the only hospital to have been recognized by the Global Sepsis Alliance for its progress on the condition. Data and staff engagement Reducing sepsis, the body's extreme response to infection, has been an evolving journey at the hospital since 2008. A sepsis committee was formed that year, after a data analysis showed the No. 1 cause of death within the system was sepsis. Ever since, monthly data collection and having a multidisciplinary team focused on sepsis have been key priorities. "We've worked on every step of sepsis," Dr. Masud said. "We created a scoring system. We created sepsis teams, which start acting in the emergency room, on the regular floor and in the intensive care unit." They've also started a critical care recovery clinic to follow patients who recover from sepsis and prevent readmissions. Having 15 years' worth of monthly sepsis data on hand has been central to Houston Methodist's progress in two key ways: It helps drive continued improvements in terms of patient outcomes and maintains staff engagement. "We're able to engage everybody because we [can] show our whole hospital staff, everybody, that, 'Hey, your work is making a difference,'" on patients' survival, he said. A recent CDC survey of 5,221 hospitals suggests this level of commitment to sepsis is far from standard, with more than 20 percent indicating they did not have a committee that monitors and reviews sepsis care on a regular basis. Education Because there is no single symptom or test to detect sepsis, constant education is also critical to ensure new generations of clinicians understand how to connect the puzzle pieces, Dr. Masud said. "Sepsis is a combination of things, and that's why people don't always pick up on it," he said. People may show up to the hospital saying they've had an infection and generally report feeling off or as if they're getting worse, not better, which alone should be enough to get healthcare teams thinking about sepsis, he said. Patient education is just as critical, given the lack of attention sepsis receives in the mainstream media. On top of that, hospitals don't always explicitly communicate a sepsis diagnosis to patients, so those who recover may leave unaware of the readmission risks. "We tell people they have heart attacks, we tell people their kidneys aren't working, but we don't tell people they have sepsis," he said. "So we have to educate constantly. One thing I tell people is get vaccinated and wash your hands, but if you don't get better [after an infection], seek your healthcare teams and ask one simple question: Do I have sepsis? That question alone can get a whole bunch of people thinking, because it is preventable and treatable, but if it progresses, that's how so many people die." Sepsis remains a massive challenge for the nation's healthcare system, with at least 1.7 million cases and 350,000 deaths every year. About one-third of hospital deaths are sepsis-related, and it remains the No. 1 cause of readmission. But, "everybody can do it," Dr. Masud said of Houston Methodist's progress. "It is possible and it is manageable, but we have to commit to it. That's the only way." The University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia and Duke University in Durham, N.C., tied for the top spot in U.S. News and World Report's Best Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs rankings. The rankings, released Sept. 18, are based on the average of scores received from surveys of top academics and officials at nursing schools or departments. The surveys were administered in the spring and summer of 2023, and officials rated undergraduate BSN programs at schools they were familiar with on a scale of 1 to 5, U.S. News said. To be considered in the rankings, schools must have bachelor's-level accreditation by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. Additionally, the regionally accredited institutions must have recently awarded at least 40 BSN degrees. Rankings data from another source, such as the National Center for Education Statistics, are used for schools that declined to fill out the U.S. News main statistical survey in 2023. The BSN programs rankings are part of U.S. News' 2024 Best Colleges rankings, which examine 1,500 colleges and universities using up to 19 measures of academic quality. U.S. News said this year's rankings include an increased emphasis on social mobility and outcomes for graduating college students. More information about the Best Colleges methodology is available here. The 22 best BSN programs for 2023-24, per U.S. News: Note: The list includes ties. 1. Duke University (Durham, N.C.) 1. University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia) 3. Emory University (Atlanta) 4. The Ohio State University (Columbus) 4. University of Iowa (Iowa City) 4. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 7. University of Alabama at Birmingham 7. University of Michigan (Ann Arbor) 7. University of Washington (Seattle) 10. Boston College (Chestnut Hill, Mass.) 10. Case Western Reserve University (Cleveland) 10. New York University (New York City) 10. Oregon Health and Science University (Portland) 10. University of Maryland, Baltimore 10. University of Pittsburgh 16. University of California, Los Angeles 16. University of Illinois-Chicago 16. University of Kentucky (Lexington) 16. University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (Minneapolis) 16. The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston 16. University of Virginia (Charlottesville) 16. University of Wisconsin-Madison One of the Belfast men behind award-winning Irish pub The Dead Rabbit has expanded with another New York bar which he says has even greater scale-up potential. Former KFC tycoon Michael Herbert has said he will transform new acquisition Forestside shopping centre into a leisure destination including a cinema. Mr Herbert, one of Northern Irelands richest men, bought the shopping centre after it had been placed on the market for 37m. The south Belfast shopping hotspot, located close to Saintfield Road, is home to Sainsburys, M&S and Dunnes. The deal was first revealed by Belfast Telegraph. Speaking on BBC Radio Ulster on Thursday, Mr Herbert said he had plans to make it into a food village. It will provide 50 construction jobs and 100 full-time jobs, and he has three major restaurants currently under offer to come to the site. He said he had plans to make the centre more of a leisure destination and a shopping destination. We believe theres plenty of future for retail. People will go to the internet but a lot of people want to feel it, touch it, buy their groceries. They want to go for the day out, and thats why were doing the food offering, he added. Weve done a lot of analysis, weve looked at other centres throughout England. Weve looked at centres in the United States and this is the way of the future. So we dont see why it wont work in Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland is a very, very exciting opportunity for retailers. Read more Former KFC tycoon buys major NI shopping centre He added that in the future, they may add a cinema to the site. Mr Herbert also spoke of how he planned to retire after selling off his network of almost 140 KFC restaurants just before the pandemic. I had intended on winding down, retiring, he said. That lasted two weeks, and my wife said I was annoying and had to get out of the house! Speaking of his wife, Lesley, he said that the two work together very closely. My wife and me work together closely were a power couple, he said. Lesley works in a different way. Everythings discussed every night and then we decide where were going to go to and thats always been the way weve done it. Mr Herbert is also a prominent property developer. He bought Barrys Amusements in Portrush, which is now being run by the Curry family under lease as Currys Fun Park. Speaking on his decision to buy Currys, he said: Our idea to buy Barrys was to preserve it for the future, not to run Barrys. The people who were bidding against us wanted to knock it down and build houses and a hotel. Clothing brand H&M is set to open a store in a new multi-million pound retail and leisure development in Belfasts city centre. The brand, owned by Sweden-based H&M Group, will open a new 20,000 sq ft unit which will offer its full line of clothing for men, women, teenagers and children. The two-storey store will be based in The Keep, the new retail and leisure development set to open next year in the former site of the British Homes Stores (BHS) building on Belfasts city centres Castle Lane. The building was bought by Alterity Investments in early 2021, after it had sat empty for almost five years after retailer BHS went into administration in 2016. H&M already has stores in the city centre on Royal Avenue and in Victoria Square shopping centre. Richard Faloon, commercial director of Alterity Investments, said: It is fantastic to be able to announce H&M as a core tenant at The Keep, as it is one of the best known and most popular high street fashion brands in the world. We want The Keep to become a hub for retail and leisure in the city centre and we believe our investment will also help revitalise the surrounding area and benefit our existing holdings in the Castle Lane and Cornmarket area. The multi-million-pound project will involve the full refurbishment of the former BHS building. The plans include a significant reconfiguration of the ground floor space into a number of retail units and a partial change of use on upper floors to allow for leisure uses. Brian Kidd of commercial agents Frazer Kidd said: Were really pleased to have secured a brand of H&Ms calibre for what will be the largest retail letting in The Keep building. We have seen really strong interest from international occupiers in the retail and leisure sectors in this prime location between Belfasts Cathedral Quarter and City Centre core, and we expect to confirm additional occupiers in the coming months. Europes largest footwear retailer Deichmann, is also set to open an 8,500 sq ft two storey store in The Keep, its first in Ireland. Work on The Keep is now taking place, with construction expected to be completed early next year. Belfast-based Alterity Investments is a family-owned property and investment company, with assets in excess of 100m across the UK, including other buildings in central Belfast and other retail sites in Castle Lane. The sister of murdered journalist Lyra McKee has said that the extremism that destroyed her family is growing in the political vacuum left by a lack of devolved government. Nichola McKee Corner spoke to the PA news agency following the announcement that the One Young World summit has named its Journalist of the Year Award 2023, the Lyra McKee Award for Bravery, in honour of her sisters life and work. Lyra McKee was 29 years old when she was fatally shot during rioting in the Creggan area of Derry in April 2019. At the time of her death, the devolved government at Stormont was not functioning after it collapsed in 2017 in the fallout of an energy scheme scandal, and Sinn Fein subsequently declined to go back into the executive to secure an Irish language act. Ms McKee Corner said politicians did not uphold promises for change they made in the wake of Ms McKees death. Because we were in a political deadlock when Lyra was killed as you know. And Lyras funeral was one of the first times in a number of years that all of the political leaders were together in one building, she said. And they had been making promises at that time that they would do what was necessary to get our political institutions back up and running. That was in April, by August, nothing had changed. Nichola Corner, the sister of murdered journalist Lyra McKee, during an interview with the PA news agency at the Scottish Provident Building in Belfast (Liam McBurney/PA) The devolved institutions are not currently functioning due to the DUPs boycott of government in a protest against post-Brexit trading arrangements. At the beginning of September 16 police officers were injured during unrest in the Creggan area of Derry that involved children as young as eight. Searches carried out following the unrest revealed guns and quantities of ammunition. Ms McKee Corner said more needs to be done about growing extremism. I wrote to them every politician in the land, not just this country, the whole island and mainland UK and eventually change did happen but as we know it wasnt long lasting. It was for completely different reasons this time but its still having the same impact on people, she said. Because at the time Lyra was killed there was a political vacuum, as we know, which only gives opportunity for extremism to flourish. And opportunities are being lost and extremism is growing. Because if you dont have a stable government, there is a tendency towards anarchy as well, which is what we saw in 2019, which is what weve seen intermittently throughout that time, and particularly in the last number of weeks. And a lot more needs to be done about that. When we see that happening, its heartbreaking. Because it doesnt need to be like this. It absolutely doesnt. And things need to be done to change it. People need to learn to find a way to compromise. She added: We keep taking steps forward, steps back. Seeing the violence, I despair, I just think has anybody learned anything? Because all it takes is one person coming onto the street with a handgun. Somebodys child could be dead. Is that worth it? Because I dont think it is. Its destroyed my family, killed my sister and my mum. I dont want to see anybody have to go through that. Nichola Corner is the sister of murdered journalist Lyra McKee (Liam McBurney/PA) Ms McKee Corner said that, if compromises are not made, there will be more unnecessary deaths. People digging their heels in and not giving in and wanting everything their own way hasnt got us anywhere in the past. Its not going to get us anywhere in the future. So we have to do something different. Absolutely, she said. If not therell be more conflict related deaths, which is my greatest fear because I know what people will have to experience. Lyra McKee (Chiho Tang/Oranga Creative/PA) Four years on from Ms McKees death the One Young World summit has named its Journalist of the Year Award 2023, the Lyra McKee Award for Bravery. The annual One Young World Summit convenes young leaders from 190 countries and 250 organisations, working to accelerate social impact. This years One Young World Summit is taking place in October in Belfast and has been recognised by the City of Belfast and the UK Government as being part of the official celebrations for the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Good Friday Agreement. The Lyra McKee Award for Bravery is designed to recognise five outstanding journalists under the age of 35, from across the world. Nichola Corner said her sister had inspired young people across the world (Liam McBurney/PA) Ms McKee Corner said Ms McKee would be blown away to have the award in her name. She would be emotional, and she would be so proud. But she would also be so pleased that she would be connected to such an amazing award that would help to inspire and influence and push forward, other young people going forward, she said. She added: She wanted everyone to have truth and justice and wanted our little country here to become a better place. And the only way you can do that is by speaking out. And by telling the truth and by using your voice and Lyra did that. And to know that shed be inspiring other young people across the world to be able to do that, I know she would think it would be absolutely phenomenal. Nichola Corner warned against the growth of extremism (Liam McBurney/PA) One Young World managing director, Ella Robertson McKay said naming the Journalist of the Year award after Ms McKee was a fitting tribute. Lyra was a talented and brave journalist who reported the truth without fear or favour and was a relentless advocate for the LGBTQ+ community before she was so tragically killed in 2019 on the 21st anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, she said. As the One Young World Summit in Belfast marks the 25th anniversary of the Agreement, we felt naming the Journalist of the Year award in Lyras honour would be a fitting tribute to such a remarkable young woman. Highly respected by her peers, Lyras writing was so full of love and hope for the future, famously penning a letter to her 14-year-old self in which she describes journalism as her calling. In that same letter she declared; It wont always be like this. Its going to get better and signed it off by saying Keep hanging on, kid. Its worth it. I love you. Patrick Kielty arrives for the London premiere of Ballywalter at the Mayfair Hotel in London (Victoria Jones/PA) Patrick Kielty has said being offered a role in his first feature film, Ballywalter, was the greatest surprise and most unexpected joy of his career. The comedian, 52, stars in the bittersweet comedy drama, the title of which is taken from the Northern Irish town in which it is set, alongside Irish actress Seana Kerslake. It comes as Kielty took over as host of RTEs The Late Late Show on Friday, attracting an average audience of 830,000 on RTE One and RTE One +1, according to the broadcaster. Speaking at the London premiere of the film, he told the PA news agency that taking on the role was left field for him. Ive been doing stand-up, the only acting Id ever done in my life was a play which was in Belfast that transferred into the West End, he said. When the guys came to me with a script, I genuinely thought that they wanted me to give them advice on one of the character roles because I was a comedian in Northern Ireland and theres sort of an element of that in the movie. So whenever they offered me the part, this was not planned, none of this was planned. This is the greatest surprise and the most unexpected joy Ive had in my career. Kielty said his character is really not funny at all, and his co-star Kerslake steals every scene in terms of comedy. He added: At the heart of the movie is a connection between people that maybe just pass each other in life along the way and how they can maybe fix each other and put themselves together. So theres a lot of heart in the movie as well. Kielty said it had been a crazy few days with the show and film launch, adding: At one point I was hoping to go on The Late Late Show as a guest to promote this movie, so now Im hosting The Late Late Show and weve got this out on the one weekend, which is just crazy stuff. The presenter said the reception to his first Late Late Show hosting appearance has left him mind blown. He added: Like absolutely blown away by all of the love going into it and the messages on the night and the reaction. We were really lucky that we got a big audience, lots of people were watching it and just still buzzing off that. Ballywalter is in cinemas on September 22. As the pandemic starts to die down, companies are requiring their staff to start working in the office again as opposed to the remote work setup. Some employees would rather stay home for work since it's less of a hassle, but Aviva is providing incentives for those who choose not to. Aviva's Performance-Based Bonuses Aviva is Britain's biggest insurer and has around 16,000 employees working under it. Like all other companies, they were forced to allow staff to work from the comfort of their home due to social distancing policies. Now that that's over, they would prefer that employees go back on-site. Unlike other company giants, Aviva is trying out a different approach to encourage workers, as opposed to other tactics wherein workers would find themselves unemployed if they refuse to come back. The company is trying to let workers come to the office for at least half of the week. Aviva CEO Amanda Blanc implemented a change where senior managers being able to lure their teams back will be part of their yearly performance assessment. If they do well, then they will get their bonuses, as per The Guardian, presumably based on how many staff return. In addition to that, select Aviva locations have also dropped their parking charges to help with the rising cost of living. Locations with free parking include Norwich, Birmingham, Sheffield, and other locations in the UK. Sadly, London is not granted the same privilege. According to the company, the number of people coming to the office has increased every month within the year. There has also been a decline in the number of days taken off due to mental health concerns. Aviva Chief People Officer, Danielle Harmer said that the majority of the staff are now back in the office for the majority of the week. "Our colleagues clearly value working side by side, collaborating, and meeting regularly in person," she added. Read Also: Amazon Employees Walk Out Going Against Back-to-Office Mandate Amazon Used a Different Method While Aviva lets its employees split their work week for the days they go to the office and stay home, Amazon has a different approach in mind. The retail giant is giving its employees two choices: Go back to the office or don't come back at all. Amazon CEO Andy Jassy already announced the return-to-office mandate back in February, but has already lost the patience and demanded that workers must return by the 1st of May. Jassy says that it was "past time to disagree and commit." As reported by Gizmodo, the Amazon CEO stated that it's not right for some to disagree with the mandate when others are already following it and that if they can't commit, it was "probably not going to work out" for them in Amazon. This is difficult for certain staff since they gained employment during the remote work situation, and they live far from the offices. The company once promised that the work-from-home setup was permanent, which is what encouraged applicants from distant locations to apply in the first place. Related: Remote Amazon Workers' Choices: Return to Office or Get Fired Russell Brand is at the centre of a police inquiry as well as separate internal investigations by Channel 4 and production company Banijay UK following allegations of serious misconduct, while the BBC said it is urgently looking into the issues raised. The comedian and actor is facing sexual assault allegations from four women which allegedly occurred between 2006 and 2013, as well as claims of controlling, abusive and predatory behaviour, following a joint investigation by The Sunday Times, The Times and Channel 4 Dispatches. And the Metropolitan Police has confirmed it has received an allegation of sexual assault dating back to 2003. Brand vehemently denies the allegations and said all of his relationships have been consensual, in a video posted online. Here is a timeline of the allegations made against Brand: 2003 A woman has made a complaint to the Met Police alleging that she was sexually assaulted by Brand in Soho, central London. The claims are not part of the allegations published in The Sunday Times. 2006 A woman claims she was sexually assaulted by Brand during a three-month relationship when she was 16 and still at school in 2006. The woman described his behaviour towards her as grooming, alleging he would provide her with scripts on how to deceive her parents into allowing her to visit him. 2007 A woman alleges Brand sexually assaulted her and was physically and emotionally abusive towards her during a six-month relationship. She made the allegations in a book published in 2014 and told The Sunday Times she stands by her account during its investigation. 2012 A woman alleges that Brand raped her at his Los Angeles home on July 1, 2012. 2013 A woman claims that Brand sexually assaulted her while she worked with him in Los Angeles and threatened to take legal action if she told anyone of the allegation. 2020 The woman who claims she was sexually assaulted by Brand during a three-month relationship when she was 16, contacts his literary agent at the time, who was also the co-founder of talent agency Tavistock Wood. A statement given to the PA news agency by Tavistock Wood said: Russell Brand categorically and vehemently denied the allegation made in 2020, but we now believe we were horribly misled by him. TW has terminated all professional ties to Brand. 2023 September 15 Brand posts a video posted online saying all of his relationships have been consensual, before accusing the media of a co-ordinated attack. He added: Amidst this litany of astonishing, rather baroque attacks are some very serious allegations that I absolutely refute. September 16 A joint investigation by The Times, Sunday Times and Channel 4 Dispatches is published, detailing allegations made against Brand. A 90-minute Channel 4 Dispatches special titled Russell Brand: In Plain Sight airs, in which the four unidentified women detail their allegations, while other women speak of their experiences of working with Brand on TV sets. The special sees him accused of pursuing audience members for sex while presenting Big Brother spin-off shows EFourum and Big Brothers Big Mouth on Channel 4, while other allegations related to when he was a radio presenter for the BBC. A researcher claims concerns about Brands behaviour were reported to production managers at Endemol, the company commissioned by Channel 4 to produce the programmes in 2004 and 2005, but were dismissed. September 17 Channel 4 announces it is conducting its own internal investigation after the allegations about Brand, and encourages anyone who is aware of such behaviour to contact them. Russell Brand is facing sexual assault allegations (James Manning/PA) Production company Banijay UK, which bought Endemol in 2020, also announces it is launching an urgent internal investigation in light of the allegations and similarly encouraging anybody who feels that they were affected by Brands behaviour while working on these productions to contact them. The BBC says it is urgently looking into the issues raised while Brand worked on BBC radio programmes between 2006 and 2008, having first appeared on BBC 6 Music in April 2006 before he was moved to Radio 2 that November. The Metropolitan Police says the force will speak to The Sunday Times and Channel 4 to ensure any victims of crime who they have spoken with are aware of how they may report any criminal allegations to police. A spokesman for the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) says they do not have an open investigation into Brand, and another confirms there have been no arrests following two allegations that are said to have happened in the US. September 18 Russell Brand vehemently denies the allegations (John Stillwell/PA) The Times said it has been contacted by several women with claims about Brand since publication of the original allegations. It said their allegations have not yet been investigated and will now be rigorously checked. The Met Police announced it has received the Soho sexual assault complaint dating back to 2003. The Theatre Royal Windsor in Berkshire also announced that Brands Bipolarisation show on Tuesday (September 19), along with further shows in Plymouth and Wolverhampton scheduled in the next two weeks, had been postponed. David Boyd talks about how his organisation has brought people together. By Jessica Rice The owner of a Belfast carnival arts organisation which is celebrating its 30-year anniversary this month has said it is their community ethos across the divide which has allowed them to stand the test of time. Beat Carnival produces parades, festivals and events, both small and large and also work with young people and community groups every week. David Boyd, from Belfast, established the organisation in 1993 and since then the company has been a regular fixture in the city. There wasnt anyone in Northern Ireland doing work like this when we started, it was companies in England or Europe doing fantastic or spectacular theatre on the streets, David explained, as he talked about how he feels the carnival has made its mark on cultural life in Northern Ireland. I didnt have high expectations it was going to last because, quite often, work like this doesnt last forever. At the time people said, we dont really need that, because the focus was on jobs and employment and no one was really interested in the arts but I was there to say, yes the arts are actually important and something we need. The Beat Carnival has helped to bring people in Northern Ireland together Despite being based on the Shankill Road, David explained it was essential that Beat Carnival welcomed people from both sides of the community. He also wanted to support artists from Northern Ireland and give them an opportunity to showcase their work and ultimately be able to make their mark in the local cultural scene and, most importantly, make a living. There are several celebrations in Northern Ireland that tend to be for one group or the other, but that is not what carnival is, carnival is a festival for all and thats at the heart of what we do here, he added. I was more interested in a way where artists could stay here, be employed and make a living. But the big thing really was doing something so artists could perform visibly on the streets, to present and show what Belfast is all about. All the pictures at the time, in the newspapers and on the television would have been trouble, especially when people gathered on the streets. There wasnt really anything happening in the city centre at the time, people would have kind of avoided it. David Boyd of Belfast Beat Carnival Speaking about what he is most proud of, David explained it is the progress Beat Carnival has made in Northern Ireland over the last 30 years in terms of integration. We now have people parading for St Patricks Day who wouldnt have considered doing that a number of years ago, and its not just those from the Shankill, there are groups from across town who previously had not seen St Patricks Day as a welcoming time for them or who felt it didnt have any connection to them, who now want to be part of it. It has helped make St Patricks Day an inclusive celebration in Belfast. One particularly popular event they run involves the samba drums, which have always been an important part of the Beat Carnival experience. Beat Carnival runs several classes on a regular basis in order that young people in the community can learn how to play the musical instrument, as well as classes for young people in art, social issues and electronic music. At the time, nobody here really played them so we had someone come over from England to teach us how to play and now they are popping up all over Northern Ireland, David explained. Its still very much an important part of the carnival. We have lots of people coming from all around Belfast and further afield to learn. In fact, it is that togetherness which David feels is one of the reasons for Beat Carnivals success, adding to their focus on a great community ethos. This has always been a mixture of arts and community work. We work with a number of community groups, thats one of the big things. We cant do it by ourselves, its about making relationships with arts and community organisations, he said. The Belfast Beat Carnival Like many companies in the arts sector, in recent years the company has had its struggles with funding, particularly in light of the Covid pandemic and the challenges that period had on the sector. Thankfully, the company has recently received funding to help support their youth program. Our funding has been cut and in terms of funding this type of work, it is at the bottom of the list. I think theres this view that it is just for fun, David added. The youth work has actually been recognised with an award from the National Lottery community fund, so we have got funding for five years for a youth program, so that gives some security for the next period. Beat Carnival runs classes for young people in art, social issues, samba drumming and electronic music. While the organisation approaches its 30-year birthday, David feels the future of Beat Carnival is safe in the hands of the next generation, but accepts that his priorities when he set up Beat Carnival are different from the priorities of many young people currently involved in the company with a period of adaptation likely. Im very optimistic at the moment. Im at the age where Im probably not going to be here for the next 30 years so there is going to be a change in the company and it will probably go in a different direction, but the exciting thing is, the younger people who are on the team and in the programs are really excited about keeping the work going, but also going in a direction that means something to them, he added. The type of carnival I described meant something to me, but we are in a different context now although for younger people I think they can still benefit from the creativity in the carnival work, but there are also other issues and subjects they want to look at. One of the things that younger people say to us is that we are providing a safe space for them to explore the arts and to explore their own issues. So having the building has been very important and having the carnival centre has been very important. We have half a dozen programs and sessions on each week and young people come in and describe it as a safe space for doing creative work, so Im quite certain that is going to continue for a while yet. Gamble pays off for content creator as workout videos prove so popular shes earning more now than she ever has, and is spending quality time with her partner and two young daughters An Armagh mother-of-two who rose to online fame says giving up her job to focus on her TikTok career has changed her life for the better. Annalivia Hynds (25) began posting on the app to battle depression following the birth of her second baby. In less than two years she has amassed a following of over 115,000 on TikTok alone. Through her content, she offers a glimpse into her family life, sharing moments with her partner Ruari McGivern and their young daughters Robin and Rhea. I started posting on TikTok in March 2022, not expecting anything to come of it, she said. My youngest child Rhea was around three months at the time, and I was struggling with postpartum depression and anxiety. The only thing that kept my head away from that was the gym. I used to watch workout videos to pick up tips. But I noticed that I never came across any postpartum workouts, so I started to post videos of that. I got into a mindset of wanting to work out because I wanted to edit and post the videos. I was heading to the gym for an hour and then taking around an hour to edit. That gave me two hours to focus my mind elsewhere. It began as a hobby, but as her follower count and engagement steadily increased, she started to receive PR packages from various companies. It was when I hit 10,000 followers that I was added to the TikTok creator fund, which pays a small amount for posting content. The pay isnt anything worth talking about, but from there a few brands wanted to send me products. A short while later I was approached by a company who offered me money to promote their brand. I really had no idea you could get paid for it. She added: I view my followers as a group of friends I can connect and share everything with. I probably overshare, but thats how these people feel a connection to me. I can go on to TikTok and ask for advice and I know theyll help me, and it goes back and forth. I always reply and interact with my followers to build that relationship. I dont mind letting them into my life as I want people to feel like were friends and having a chat together. I try not to share too much of my familys routine, and I would never share things that would identify Robins school or anything like that. Although they feature on my account, Im conscious that I dont want our girls faces plastered on every video. In January, after much debate and many sleepless nights, Annalivia made the decision to leave her secure job as a marketing manager to work as a TikTok creator full-time. She explained: Quitting my job was a big risk, we were financially comfortable at the time. We had our mortgage to pay and I was worried I wouldnt make enough money from TikTok, but Ruari was so supportive through it all and encouraged me to take the risk. When I told our families that I was going to quit my job, they couldnt understand it, I think they thought I was crazy. But they are all so supportive. When I was working at my previous job, we had to pay an extortionate amount for childcare. I had this thought in the back of my mind that someone else was raising my kids. I started to think about taking on TikTok full-time. I decided to dive into it with both hands and focus on my brand. I knew it was a risk, but we decided that at the end of the day, even if I only made a small amount of money, Im at home looking after the girls. Read more Mums TikTok career change really pays off The gamble paid off, as the content creator disclosed to the Belfast Telegraph she now earns a higher income than in any of her previous jobs. I started to make money over the last six months, but even then I was always thinking it could be a fluke. But recently I decided to book a surprise holiday for us, she added. It filled my heart that I could do it and pay for it all myself. It was like a way of giving back to Ruari for everything he does for us. TikTok changed our life in such a positive way, for our family it has changed everything. Kids are only young for so long before they go to school I didnt want to spend that time away from them. I know so many people dont have this opportunity, and we are so grateful. For me, its not about being loaded, its being able to live nicely and give back to people that supported me. CCTV footage of an alleged upskirting incident in a Belfast shopping centre was played to a jury today. Brian Marshall is standing trial at Belfast Crown Court accused of committing an act outraging public decency. The 25-year old, from Lisavon Drive in Belfast, has denied that, on May 14, 2021, he committed an act of a lewd, obscene and disgusting nature and outraging public decency by taking a covert photograph, using a mobile telephone, of underneath the skirt of a female. Crown barrister Robin Steer opened the Crowns case to a jury of eight men and four women and said the alleged incident occurred in the Victoria Square shopping complex. The prosecutor told the jury that as the complainant and her friend were walking to the toilet area along a corridor, Marshall could be seen walking closely behind them. Mr Steer said the CCTV footage shows him bending down directly behind [the complainant] on two occasions before dropping his phone. Read more Weed farmer fears prison term after taking rap for UDA The complainant was called to the witness box and confirmed that, on the evening in question, she was with a friend in Victoria Square and was wearing a black dress and denim jacket. When she was asked by Mr Steer what happened as she walked along the corridor, she said her friend noticed a man, carrying a phone, walking behind them. The woman said her friend instantly turned round to him and said, What are you doing? And after she said that, I turned round and saw him directly behind me with his phone under my dress. When she was asked what position his body was in when he was behind her, she replied: He was crouched. When asked where his phone was, she answered: Under my dress. Mr Steer then asked how Marshall was holding his phone, to which she replied: He was holding it between my thighs. After the prosecutor enquired about what happened next, the complainant said: Whenever I looked around, he had dropped his phone, and I think he had pretended to fall at that point. He was on the ground briefly, then he put his phone in his pocket. The complainant said that, at this point, her friend spoke to Marshall. When asked if she saw the phone again, the complainant said: Yes. He brought it out and he was scrolling on it and denying taking any photos. Mr Steer then asked if she was able to see any pictures while he was scrolling, to which she replied: No. He deleted them from his folder. But then we made him [go into] his recently deleted folder, where we saw the photos. When asked What could you see on that?, she answered: Photos of my thighs I would say there were about four photos of between my thighs. Mr Steer then asked if the man in question disclosed his name, to which she responded: Yes. We asked what his name was and he told us, which I thought was surprising. He said this name was Brian. Read more Former soldier admits bombarding neighbours with metal ball bearings The complainant said that, following this, she and her friend approached a security guard on an upper floor of the shopping centre, accompanied by Marshall, to report what had happened. She was told by the security guard that she should report the matter to the police, which she did the following day. Mr Steer then asked what happened to Marshalls phone. The complainant said that, as she stood on the upper floor of Victoria Square, my instant reaction was to not have the photos anywhere, so I threw the phone off the balcony. CCTV was then played and the complainant, who revealed she was seeing the footage for the first time, identified herself. The footage showed the alleged upskirting in the corridor, the two women approaching the security guard and the complainant throwing the phone over a balcony. The Economic and Social Research Committee has released a report on student mobility from Northern Ireland to the Republic (Pic: PA) The head of modern languages at a leading grammar school has said she is not surprised that a report found students in Northern Ireland were put off applying to universities in the Republic due to A-level language requirements. According to a new report from the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI), language requirements at many third-level institutions in the Republic act as a deterrent to potential undergraduates from Northern Ireland. This is because fewer students here choose to study a language as one of their A-level subjects compared to the proportion of Leaving Certificate students in the Republic who study at least one language. In 2020/21, some 1,255 students from Northern Ireland attended universities and higher education establishments in the Republic, making up 0.6% of the total third-level student body, according to the report compiled by the ESRI and the Shared Island Unit at the Department of the Taoiseach on barriers to student mobility. Kayleigh Williams, head of modern languages at Belfast Royal Academy, said she was not surprised at the lack of students taking a language at A-level in Northern Ireland and said she is aware of the constant battle language studies can encounter. We are very lucky at Belfast Royal Academy, because we have a very supportive principal and a foreign language as a compulsory subject at GCSE, she said. Its because we know we have to keep our pupils options open for those who want to study in the Republic of Ireland, or Scotland. All of our students do a language at GCSE, which gives them that opportunity. Ms Williams said that, while she appreciates the importance of other subjects, she feels too much emphasis and financing goes towards STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, mathematics). I understand the importance of STEM in this modern world, but STEM and modern languages is even more powerful. Were lucky to have lots of students taking on languages at A-level. We offer Spanish, French, German and Latin. But its an endless battle to create relevance, which we aid with things like school trips. We want children to understand the importance of a language. Read more Ulster University: Foyle MLA condemns decision to drop use of Magee name Ms Williams said top performing grammar schools making languages non-compulsory hinders students prospects. The restrictions Covid had on teaching, and Brexit making Europe less appealing, hasnt helped, but Belfast Royal Academy had two students last year who got into Cambridge their fourth A-level was in Spanish. It was asked in their interviews: Why did you choose Spanish instead of physics? Learning a language is so important and it helps [students] get ready to take over the world. Another key obstacle identified by the report is that, while Northern Irish school leavers can apply for third-level education through the Central Applications Office (CAO) system (the Irish equivalent to UCAS), the points they are awarded are based on four A-levels. However, the majority of A-level students in Northern Ireland only study three. Some third-level institutions in the Republic attempt to mitigate this, including Trinity College in Dublin. It has said it recognises this issue and, to help aid entry requirements, has developed a feasibility study for A-level admissions. The feasibility study will continue for students from Northern Ireland seeking admission in 2023/24 with a set number of places maximum three per course set aside. However, medicine is not included, as the court requires the Irish health professions test. Sinn Fein MLA Padraig Delargy has said barriers to northern students enrolling and attending universities in the south must be removed. The Foyle MLA said: "The admissions process in the south should be reformed to ensure it does not disadvantage students from the north applying for university places. The Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) report shines a light on the clear barriers facing northern students with A-Levels essentially being downgraded in comparison to the Leaving Cert. Sinn Fein has consistently made the case for reforms to this system, and outlined this clearly to Minister Simon Harris. Its now welcome that steps are being taken by Universities Ireland to look at addressing this issue. Removing existing barriers can play a vital role in boosting cross-border education and ensuring parity of esteem for northern students who want to study in the south. Northern Ireland surfers and nature reservists have taken park in a wake for Lough Neagh to highlight the concerns surrounding blue green algae which continues to plague the lake. Surfers against Sewage alongside environmental campaign group Friends of the Earth and Love Our Lough gathered at the side of Lough Neagh near Ballyronan Marina in Magherafelt to lay flowers and wreaths in a wake style commemoration to protest against the continued contaminated water. Participants also wore black to represent being in mourning for the lough. Environmentalists hold wake for Lough Neagh over toxic algae bloom Crowds of spectators also gathered at the event and accompanied a coffin which was carried along the lough shore. Over the past several months, blue algae also known as cyanobacteria, it is linked to a nutrient overload, has been sighted on the surface of the water. Pollution from farming and NI Water are said to be major contributing factors, along with increased temperatures and sunlight. Ruby Free and colleagues protest against the sewage pollution Earlier this week, government health and food safety bodies have this week warned against eating fish caught recreationally in the lough but suggested it might be fine to eat the same fish caught by a commercial vessel, with restaurants such as Mourne Seafood Bar having to put out statements to say they dont acquire fish from the lough. Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph just prior to the wake taking place, environmental campaigner Ruby Free who earlier this year was named the Sunday Life Spirt of Northern Ireland Awards Climate Champion told the Belfast Telegraph, the wake was designed to reflect campaign groups feelings over alleged in-action over the damage to the water. Environmental campaigners held a wake at Ballyronan beach for Lough Neagh lake amid claims toxic algae is killing the UK and Irelands largest freshwater lake (Liam McBurney/PA) We really wanted to highlight how this issue is affecting local communities and our wildlife - we know its the most Irish thing ever. It was an idea from Friends of the Earth and weve worked together to highlight what is going on, she said. Its a stunt that we hope really raises this issue even further. Ruby, who lives outside Portglenone in Co Antrim, described the situation in Lough Neagh as heart breaking and said the issue of algae blooms is something campaigners have been attempting to raise for several months. Im just heartbroken to be honest. I've seen these blooms before but never on this scale and I think it's even more heart breaking, especially because we started a campaign in May because we were worried that this issue was going to get worse. We held at paddle out in May, where around 80 people local people came to that and we all paddled out in our surfboards and kayaks and swam out to highlight the issue and basically demand better from the likes of NI Water. We have been shouting out about this and hoping something would change and then here we are four or five months down the line and it's pretty much the maximum level now. Watch: Sam McBride's in-depth look at Lough Neagh's blue-green algae crisis She said Surfers Against Sewage, which was initially founded in the 1970s in Rubys home town of Cornwall wish to highlight the detrimental affects on wildlife. This isn't only harmful for us in terms of drinking water, because we know 200,000 tons of raw sewage is dumped in the lough, but its also harmful for wildlife - combined with the intensive farming practices across Northern Ireland and around the lough, has just led this toxic soup were experiencing now. A public meeting about the water pollution is also set to take place this week at the Seamus Heaney Centre where concerns about the impact of the algae are set to be raised. Lords appeal to MPs as he says 83,000 people in the area are being discriminated against A peer has written to MPs urging them to exert influence on the Department of Health over delivery of services at the South West Acute Hospital in Enniskillen. Emergency general surgery has been suspended since December, with patients diverted to Altnagelvin Area Hospital A public consultation on the temporary move took place earlier this year. Local groups have continued to campaign against the change. Lord Brookeborough has now written to Westminsters NI Select Committee in a bid to improve the situation. In the letter sent last month, he said: I am writing... to ask you and your Committee to note the concerns of a broad range of groups campaigning against a reduction in the hospital services in Co Fermanagh and South Tyrone. It would seem unacceptable that 83,000 people should be left in a position that no other part of the UK is forced to accept. The whole community is united in appealing for help to encourage the Dept of Health to act, regardless of whether we have an Executive in place or not. They have shown that they can act, albeit so far, only in the way that they wish to impose cuts. This is a simple plea to use whatever influence you may have to improve the situation. The groups do have slightly different plans on what the detailed delivery of services might consist of and that is for local planning and consultation to narrow down. However, regardless of the detail, the whole community and in our terms that means both communities are fighting for the minimum services that we believe we have a right to access as citizens of our nation. The eventual solution may include an increase in cross-border co-operation, and everyone accepts that this may well be part of future provision. I would therefore ask that your Committee would look at this situation and provide as much help and influence as you can. The letter is attached to correspondence outlining the decisions taken by the Western Trust as well as details on travel times to Altnagelvin from various places in Co Fermanagh. Last week the peer followed up by highlighting the issues around SWAH in the House of Lords. The state-of-the-art hospital was opened by the late Queen in 2012. It has hundreds of single rooms, no wards, clean air technology in the theatres, he said. It has served a population of 83,000 people. The Western Trust has suspended acute services at the hospital with no direction from a democratic authority. The decision is statistical and a problem with recruitment, and that may be, but it is a medical requirement for most important hospital intervention. You need to have acute services in case things go wrong. Therefore, these sudden, straightforward interventions need to go somewhere else Altnagelvin Hospital in Derry. This means that 83,000 people have to travel 60 minutes or more. We know it costs more to post a letter to the outer isles, to run a school in the outer isles. That is what universal service is about, and the removal of services to such a large number of people in Fermanagh and South Tyrone, should be unacceptable behaviour on the part of an unaccountable body. But it doesnt have to be unaccountable if the government makes provision for interfering where things are quite clearly wrong. The health status of 83,000 people is being compromised in a manner that is incomparable anywhere else in the UK. It is NHS policy to take account of the geographical situation and to compensate where necessary. We used to have a notion that was the golden hour; what has happened to this? The Western Trust has said things have changed, but what hasnt changed is the need. Road accidents are the same, childbirth is the same, the diseases are the same. Ill tell you whats changed their decision just to not go by it. There was a consultation and one particular document was signed by 30% of the population. It was treated by the trust as one entity. They virtually disregarded it. I would like to ask: are government going to live up to what they should be responsible for ensuring equal treatment and opportunities for all people throughout our nation, regardless of whether that devolved system is in place or not? It says a great deal for levelling up in our nation, does it not? The Western Trust said the suspension of emergency general surgery did not change the hospitals Type 1 ED status or its acute status. "All other acute services in SWAH are unchanged and the hospital provides acute care for the medically unwell as well as paediatric and obstetrics and gynaecology patients, said a spokesperson. "The Emergency Department has 8 substantive Consultants and we continue to provide excellent cardiology and ICU treatment for all of the patients in this locality. "Attendances at SWAH Emergency Department continue to rise and this health care facility is essential to both the local population and the Northern Ireland healthcare network. Delivering safe care to the population of the West was the primary reason for this temporary change to Emergency General Surgery at SWAH as the Trust could not operate a safe out of hours Consultant rota from December 19 2022 as only one substantive consultant remained out of the six Consultants required. "There were no substantive consultants in Emergency General Surgery at SWAH from February 2023. We are satisfied that the temporary suspension of Emergency General Surgery at SWAH and the new pathways put in place to assess patients in our ambulatory pathway at SWAH, and to treat patients requiring admission at Altnagelvin, has significantly mitigated the patient safety risks which arose from the challenges in the Consultant General Surgeon workforce. The alternative clinical pathways for the treatment of emergency general surgery patients at SWAH are carefully monitored by the Trust. The Department of Health was approached for comment. Edwin Poots said he wanted to see Stormont return but warned the Government it needed to offer more (Liam McBurney/PA) Seismic movement from Downing Street will not be enough to fix radiography waiting lists, the Society of Radiography has said. The comments were in response to former DUP leader Edwin Poots remark that the DUP will need to see something seismic from the UK government to get his party back to Stormont. Cora Regan, Northern Ireland national officer for the Society of Radiographers, said: Its not enough for there to be movement seismic or otherwise from Downing Street. That wont be enough to guarantee that radiographers and other healthcare workers in Northern Ireland receive a fair pay award, which addresses recruitment and retention. She added that almost 1 in 10 people in Northern Ireland are currently on a waiting list for a diagnostic test. Some of that money needs to be ringfenced for a payment award for healthcare workers including radiographers. Otherwise, there is no guarantee that our members will receive the pay increase they need to be able to address the vast waiting lists for diagnostic tests in Northern Ireland, with almost one in 10 members of the population currently waiting for a test, she continued. And, with 40 per cent of cancer patients requiring radiotherapy treatment, a shortage of radiographers can create delays that mean the difference between life and death. Our members deserve better. Our patients deserve better. Mr Poots comments come amid reports that suggest Sir Jeffrey Donaldson is considering ending the DUPs 20-month Stormont boycott. Mr Poots, who briefly led the party in 2021, was asked for his thoughts on the BBCs Sunday Politics programme. I think we need to see something seismic coming from Downing Street, he said. Its going to take something significant to make that happen. I very much want that to happen, however, what has been on the table here before is nowhere near adequate to bring the DUP back into the room. Mr Poots did not specify whether it is greater financial or political concessions - or indeed both - that the party is seeking. Northern Ireland has been without a devolved government since February 2022 when the DUPs Paul Givan resigned as First Minister in protest at the internal UK trade barriers created by Brexits contentious Northern Ireland Protocol. The DUP has said the Windsor Framework, the deal struck by the EU and UK to reform the protocol, does not go far enough. Lord Dodds, a former DUP deputy leader, has previously said the framework utterly fails the DUPs seven tests to restore power-sharing. It was the fourth incident at the premises in a fortnight Police at the scene of the incident on Donegall Road in Belfast (Photo by Kirsten Elder) General view of a shop on the Donegal Road in south Belfast which was attacked and set on fire on Sunday evening. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye A Syrian man whose business premises have been targeted four times in a fortnight has said he will be moving his grocery shop elsewhere due to the ongoing racist attacks he has faced. On Sunday evening, a fire at his south Belfast market saw residents from flats above also being evacuated. The incident is being treated as arson. Ahmad Alkhamran, who owns the small store on the Donegall Road, fled the war in Syria seven years ago and came to Northern Ireland. He told BBC News NI that he worked as a taxi driver when he first arrived and had been saving his wages to start his own grocery business. Watch: Belfast arson being treated as hate crime as residents flee flat during attack "I have worked for four months, the shop was to open next week, he said. "I have saved for seven years in just a few minutes it was all gone. "It's disappointing but we will keep going and hope to open the business somewhere else, but not here. "I believe love will win, not racists." This is the fourth incident at the premises in two weeks. Shutters to the business had been spray-painted with racist graffiti, which police said is being treating as a hate crime. Detective Sergeant Ash said: Police received a report that a fire had broken out at a business premises on the Donegall Road at 9.25pm. Residents from two flats, located above the business, had to be evacuated at the time and thankfully were not injured and we are extremely grateful for the quick actions of our officers and response from the Fire Service. Our colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service have since confirmed that the fire was started deliberately and as such we are treating this as arson with intent to endanger life. This is the fourth incident at the premises in a fortnight as shutters to the business had also been spray painted with racist graffiti which we are treating as a race-motivated hate crime. Mr Alkhamran said he and a friend had been working in the shop on Sunday evening to prepare for their opening, and they closed up at about 8.30pm. A short time later, he got a call from his landlord telling him the shop had been attacked again. When he arrived at the scene, the emergency services were already helping residents in the flats above to safety. The businessman added that everything in his shop is damaged and that he will now seek to open the store in a safer location. During previous attacks within the past fortnight, a fire was set in front of the shop, damaging the shutters and cracking the shop window, In the next attack, shutters at the premises were spray-painted with graffiti. The message read: "Local houses an (sic) shops only." Mr Alkhamran said he had been made to feel welcome by most people he met in Northern Ireland, and said he believed it was only a small minority who opposed his new venture. We fear that it is only a matter of time before lives are lost. In response to the latest incident, Patrick Corrigan, Northern Ireland programme director of Amnesty International, said the organisation was disgusted and that racist arson attacks are happening on a regular basis in Northern Ireland, particularly in parts of Belfast and we fear that it is only a matter of time before lives are lost. Whats even more worrying is that we rarely see prosecutions follow these attacks, he continued. "Those responsible feel emboldened by a sense of impunity to come back again and again and it must end now. The police must commit the necessary resources to catch those responsible and instil public confidence that Northern Ireland is not a safe place for violent racists, because frankly, that is increasingly how it looks. Sinn Fein MLA Deirdre Hargey added: This is a disgusting attempt to create fear and stir up hate. There is no place for this kind of behaviour in our society and is not reflective of the people of South Belfast. I extend my full support and solidarity to the victims of these attacks, and would appeal to anyone with information to contact the PSNI. Police have asked that anyone with information contact them via 101. Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris and NIO minister Steve Baker have been negotiating with the DUP around the Windsor Framework. Downing Street has denied the Government has received legal advice suggesting that meeting the DUPs demands around the Windsor Framework would require fundamentally changing the deal and cannot be done in domestic law. The Government has been holding meetings with the DUP on a regular basis as it tries to navigate a way to meet the partys seven key tests, which leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson says must be reached before the DUP will return to Stormont. Apple has chosen to defuse its iPhone 12 dispute with France. The tech giant recently announced it is releasing the update the French government wants made to iPhone 12s in France to reduce the device's alleged radiation level. This announcement follows the French government ceasing the sale of iPhone 12s after discovering the radiation it emits is "slightly higher" than the allowed threshold. Apple's Compromise Apple has decided to abide by the French government's demand instead of arguing about the safety of its iPhone 12. According to a Reuters report, the tech giant promised to release an update for the iPhone 12s in France to "accommodate the testing methods used in France." This update, according to the French government's ultimatum to Apple, is required to be one that will lower the device's radiation level to a more acceptable one. The French government welcomed Apple's announcement, saying it will test it as soon as possible - once the update passes, the French government will allow Apple to sell them again nationwide. The French government previously had Apple cease selling its iPhone 12s after it discovered that it was emitting radiation levels higher than the allowed threshold. However, France's digital minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, said that the phone's radiation levels are much too low for scientific studies to consider it harmful to users. Read More: Here's Why You Need Apple's New 60W, 240W USB-C Charge Cables Barrot revealed in his X.com post that while the iPhone 12 was emitting radiation levels "slightly above" the allowed threshold, the radiation it emits is at levels more than ten times lower than the one at which there could be a health risk. Apple itself contested the French government's claim about the radiation levels that come with the iPhone 12. You may recall that the tech giant instructed its tech support team to not provide any information when customers ask about the French government's claim and reassure customers that the iPhone 12 is safe to use. Despite Apple's promise of a radiation-reducing update, it reiterated that multiple international bodies certified the iPhone 12 as a device compliant with global radiation standards. Growing Concern Over iPhone 12 Unfortunately, it seems Apple may have to launch this radiation-reducing update to other countries in the EU. Belgium, Germany, Italy, Denmark, and the Netherlands have started looking into the iPhone 12's radiation level, with Belgium being the first country to do so after France. Reuters' report revealed that Belgium's state secretary for digitalization, Mathieu Michel, wants Apple to release this iPhone 12 radiation-reducing update to other EU countries. This request is despite the results of the Belgian regulator's preliminary review of the handset that found the iPhone 12 presenting no danger to users. Additionally, Germany is in touch with French authorities to find an EU-wide solution, while Italy wants Apple to release the update in question there as well, per the publication's sources. Meanwhile, the Dutch Authority for Digital Infrastructure said it is also investigating the iPhone 12's radiation levels; it expects results in two weeks. The investigation is likely launched due to the calls the agency received from concerned customers. Lastly, Denmark has been assuring its citizens that the iPhone 12 is safe to use. Its Safety Authority won't take action following France's findings, and it is not concerned about the iPhone 12's radiation levels. Related Article: Apple Staff Allegedly Ordered To Stay Quiet on iPhone 12 Radiation Issue Scores of dangerous American XL Bully dogs are available for sale across Northern Ireland, despite plans to ban the breed elsewhere in the UK. There are currently dogs being sold Northern Ireland on for sale sites, ranging from 300 to 3,000 in price. Eight of the dogs listed on one website are aged between eight weeks and 22 months old and located in Newry, Ballymena, Cookstown, Coleraine, Lurgan and Newtownabbey. Ready to leave now, the ads state. Many adverts state the dog gets along with children, while others describe them as family pets. She is great with other dogs and is great with my kids. I have a video of her with my kids if anyone wants to see it, one advert states. The Prime Minister warned that the animals are a danger to communities and vowed to take action after a man was mauled to death in Staffordshire last week. Days earlier, an 11-year-old girl and two men were attacked in Birmingham. Rishi Sunak said he shared the nations horror at such attacks which he warned cannot be allowed to continue. However, banning the breed under the Dangerous Dogs Act which includes a ban on sales will not apply to Northern Ireland. The breed is also openly on sale in the Republic. A number of animal charities have criticised the PMs plans, warning the move will not be effective unless breeders are dealt with properly. Its understood the Dogs Trust, which has a base in Ballymena, is assessing the situation amid concerns over the ban. The Dog Control Coalition which includes the RSPCA and the British Veterinary Association described recent attacks as deeply distressing and said our thoughts are with all those involved and affected. The biggest priority for everyone involved is to protect the public but banning the breed will sadly not stop these types of incidents recurring, it added. For 32 years, the Dangerous Dogs Act has focused on banning types of dogs and yet this has coincided with an increase in dog bites and the recent deaths show that this approach isnt working. The UK government must tackle the root issue by dealing with the unscrupulous breeders, who are putting profit before welfare, and the irresponsible owners whose dogs are dangerously out of control. The coalition has urged the Prime Minister to work with it to fully understand the wide-reaching consequences of a ban. The group warned that the action will have significant impacts on owners, the animal welfare sector, vets, law enforcement and the public. It is also critical that any policy designed to protect public safety is based on robust evidence and we are deeply concerned about the lack of data behind this decision and its potential to prevent dog bites, the statement concluded. The USPCA has insisted the focus should be on legislating for responsible dog ownership rather than punishing individual dogs for the way they look. Unfortunately this is a knee-jerk response from the Prime Minister its a quick and popular decision, but its not the right decision, it said in a statement. The USPCA do not believe the solution lies in simply banning more dogs. We believe focusing on the type of dog, rather than their individual actions, is a flawed and failing approach. It has not worked for 32 years when this legislation was first introduced. It added: We would urge government to place focus on the strengthening and enforcement of current breeding and dog control regulations, as well as the promotion of responsible dog ownership and training. Members of the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) and supporters on a picket line outside the Belfast News Letter office (Liam McBurney/PA) More than 330 journalists at titles across the UK and Ireland, including staff at the Scotsman and Yorkshire Post, took part in the industrial action. In Northern Ireland, journalists with the Belfast News Letter newspaper joined colleagues in the first ever company-wide walkout. The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) said National World staff want the company to reflect on a 4.5% pay offer made in July, and instead offer a pay package that reflects journalists hard work at the company. The union said it has previously engaged with the publisher through negotiations with Acas, attempting to reach an agreement that resolves the dispute. They said National Worlds refusal to accept proposals has resulted in the strike action. An NUJ National World group chapel spokesperson said the real-terms pay cut imposed by the company simply doesnt do enough to recognise the hard work of our members or the impacts of the cost-of-living crisis. It also fails to address pay disparities and low rates of pay that mean some of our trainee reporters many of whom completed degrees just to get a foot in the door are now having to take on second jobs to make ends meet, they added. Journalists will begin a work to rule on September 19, with further strike action planned on September 22 and 25 In Belfast, NUJ Irish Secretary Seamus Dooley, said workers have been forced to take strike action by the situation. Seamus Dooley, Irish Secretary of the National Union of Journalists (NUJ), on a picket line outside the Belfast News Letter office at Arthur House in Belfast (Liam McBurney/PA) He said: This is the first of a series of one-day actions in iconic newspaper titles, and here in Belfast outside the offices of the Belfast News Letter, one of the most significant newspapers in Europe, and a very important newspaper in terms of Northern Ireland. Our members in Derry are protesting their part of the regional group which would have been known as Mortons, This is about pay, its about low-paid journalists. Its about pay at National World, but its also focuses attention on the issue of low pay within the industry, the low-pay crisis within the newspaper sector nationally and particularly regionally. Its something of concern not just to journalists, journalists cannot become a low-paid profession, it cannot become a profession available only to people with other income, and there is a real problem now in terms of low pay. Sean Quinn says 'there was no paymaster' as priest hits out at former billionaire's 'highly selective' account With the release of his new book, the businessman from Co Fermanagh talks to Andrew Madden about the collapse of his empire, bankruptcy, and the abduction and torture of his former colleague Kevin Lunney Sean Quinn speaks to our reporter Andrew Madden Andrew Madden Mon 18 Sep 2023 at 07:22 Sean Quinn once the richest man in Ireland has said he doesnt believe there was a paymaster behind the abduction and torture of his former colleague Kevin Lunney. Snake Rescued after being found at Cave Hill in Belfast. Snake rescued after being found at Cave Hill in Belfast. A South American Boa has been discovered on a popular walking trail in Belfast. The snake was found by a couple visiting Cave Hill on Sunday evening before being rescued by a volunteer from Northern Ireland Exotic Sanctuary. Lindsey Adams rushed to the scene after being alerted to the incident and brought the reptile to safety. Thankfully the gentleman and his wife had already caught it and were able to hand it straight over to me, she recalled. "It was very distressed when it got here and it will take a few days to warm up. "It seems to be in great condition with no obvious injuries which doesnt suggest it has been dumped. "But we dont know much at this point. Snake found on Cave Hill walking trail in Belfast. Pic credit Cave Hill Community Facebook group. Ms Adams said the animal was located far away from Belfast Zoo leading her to believe it is very unlikely to have escaped from there. She believes it probably managed to get out of a nearby house. It is now in an incubated tank and we are getting it warmed up we will keep an eye for a couple of days and give the owner one month to come forward, Ms Adams said. "We wont judge, things happen and we understand that. She added: "We will make sure the snake is safe to return to the home and when we establish that, we will give it back. If no one comes forward we will begin the rehoming process which can take a few months. Its unclear what sex the animal is, but Ms Adams suspects it is a female. "It is hard to tell and we want to let her rest for now, but Im fairly certain she is female, she explained. "She has been through too much. People forget that snakes are cold blooded and do not produce their own body heat. "On a cold and wet night like that, she wouldnt have lasted long outside. "If she was dumped, then it was a death sentence. Snake Rescued after being found at Cave Hill in Belfast. The rescuer reassured the public that no one was ever at risk as the snake is not venomous. "It seems to be a Boa from South America, Im not sure what species exactly at this point," Ms Adams explained. These are domesticated pets and wouldnt even be capable of hunting in the wild. "You are very, very unlikely to get a venomous snake in Northern Ireland because owners require a Dangerous Wild Animal licence which imposes very strict conditions. The chances would be one in a million. Recent cases of exotic animals being abandoned in NI have been due to the perceived price of caring for them amid the cost of living crisis. "In reality, the electric required to keep them warm doesnt cost that much, Ms Adams said. "Other reasons are that people buy them when they are cute babies not realising that they can grow into large animals in some cases seven foot long and then they get scared. "On some occasions, landlords find out about animals being in properties and want them out. The owner has been urged to contact one of the five volunteers at Northern Ireland Exotic Sanctuary in Belfast. A spokesman for the PSNI said the fire was started deliberately (Liam McBurney/PA) A Syrian man who moved to Belfast said he has lost everything after his shop was burnt out in an arson attack. Mr Ahmad Alkhamran moved to Belfast from Syria seven years ago, and told the PA news agency he had never experienced hate before he started his business on the Donegall Road. I have seven years in Belfast, I was working as a taxi driver and I have seven years not any problem. Nothing happened with me before, in seven years nothing, he said. The fire was first reported to police just after 9pm on Sunday. Residents were evacuated from the flats above the shop but were unharmed. Racist graffiti on the grocery store (Liam McBurney/PA) A PSNI spokesman said the fire was started deliberately and was being treated as arson with intent to endanger life. They said the attack was the fourth at Mr Alkhamrans shop in just two weeks. A spray-painted message on the shutters of the shop from an attack just before the fire reads local houses an shops only. Mr Alkhamran said the fire was the worst of the four attacks. Yesterday was the biggest one and damaged all my business. I lost everything, he said. He added: It was very sad for us, like disappointed. Its very, very sad, shocking. I cant believe that when I arrive. I cant believe the smoke. Mr Alkhamran said a side window had been broken and a petrol bomb had been thrown into the shop to start the fire. A broken window after the arson attack (Liam McBurney/PA) The shop was due to open after he had been preparing it for four months. Imagine anybody working four months. Its very hard to prepare a business, to open a business. And imagine just 10 minutes or 15 minutes everything is damaged in front of your eyes, he said. Its very hard. Its very hard to explain, even if I explain, nobody feels it as I am. Mr Alkhamran said he would ask those who carried out the arson: Are you happy now? Are you happy because you destroyed a man, destroyed his life? Are you happy? They gave a message on the shutter, I think they win in that message. I think the hate is winning in this area and I lose. He added: We love all the people, we respect all the people. We escaped from a war from Syria. We escaped from a war and we dont need any troubles. We just need to look for a safer place to live. Most of the people, the majority of the people are very kind with me. Graffiti was painted on the shutters (Liam McBurney/PA) Mr Alkhamran said he had experienced hardship in his life before and hoped to reopen in a new area with the support of the community in Belfast. Eleven months I was cruising from country to country to country its very, very hard. And after that I cant sit down and no, I need to keep going, he said. I know this is something very big for me. It is a very big hit. But I need to keep going. But I need support from the community, from the Government just to offer me or help me with a safe place, safe shop in a safe area to reopen again, like slowly slowly. So thats what I hope to get. Anyone in the area at the time of the fire is asked to contact police on 101 citing reference number 1623 17/09/23. MLAs words aimed at London spark warning that his partys boycott is boosting support for a united Ireland Edwin Poots has been warned to be careful what he wishes for after he said it would take a seismic intervention from the Government to see his party return to Stormont. The former DUP leader claimed what was on offer from London was not enough to end its boycott of the institutions because of the Brexit protocol. Pressure is growing on the DUP to return to power-sharing after more than a year. Mr Poots told BBC NIs Sunday Politics programme he wanted to see Stormont back, but said what has been on the table heretofore is nowhere near adequate to bring the DUP back into the room. He added: I think that we need to see something seismic coming from Downing Street and its going to take something significant to make that happen. Talks between the DUP and the Government have been ongoing over the summer and Secretary of State Chris Heaton-Harris insisted significant progress had been made. He is expected to appear before the House of Lords this week to provide further details on what the plans are for the so-called green lane to allow some goods to enter Northern Ireland from Britain with minimal checks. Matthew O'Toole However, SDLP MLA Matthew OToole said: The longer the DUP boycotts government, making life miserable and worse for everyone who lives here, the more people, including the constitutionally agnostic or unaligned, will ask whether the seismic shift we need is toward a new Ireland. Fears remain over a potential split in the DUP should Sir Jeffrey Donaldson try to bring it back to Stormont without agreement. The party cast aside Mr Poots as leader when he nominated a First Minister to Stormont in 2021, making him the shortest serving DUP chief. Alliance MLA Peter McReynolds, who has not yet been able to take his seat in the Assembly, said the DUP must come clean and tell people exactly what it is it wants to get back into government. Peter McReynolds He said: Mr Poots spoke of needing something seismic to change the DUP stance, and I sat open-mouthed listening to it. All around Northern Ireland I see seismic things happening because of the lack of government. To me, the fact were facing more strike action in the next few weeks is seismic... the pressure on hospital waiting lists is seismic. Over the weekend I spoke with a school principal in east Belfast who will not be able to provide hot water or hot meals for pupils. Thats due to the pressures on the budget; that is seismic. How much more seismic does Mr Poots want? I call on the DUP to lay out their wants so we can all see exactly where they stand and where their priorities lie. I know the priorities with so many others lie in providing the basic essentials 365 days a year, seven days a week. And that can be provided through a stable government. There has not been devolution since February 2022 when Paul Givan resigned as DUP First Minister in protest at the Irish Sea border created by the post-Brexit protocol. The DUP says the Windsor Framework, a deal struck by the EU and UK to reform the protocol, does not go far enough. Lord Dodds, a former DUP deputy leader, previously said the framework utterly fails the partys seven tests to restore power-sharing. Ian Paisley MP also said it was unlikely there would be a resumption of the Assembly this year. I think everyone is working hard to try and address the issues around it, and I want to frame those comments on the basis that I am pro-devolution, he said. I think its good that people in Northern Ireland run Northern Irish affairs. But it will only happen if we address these fundamental concerns and get a devolution that works and is properly financed. Speaking in Dublin on Friday, Sinn Fein vice-president Michelle ONeill reiterated her call for Stormont to be restored and said patience is now running out. Meanwhile, party president Mary Lou McDonald said the game-playing of the DUP needed to stop. Common sense must prevail, she added. Leader of the DUP Sir Jeffrey Donaldson at the launch of their Local Government election manifesto, 2023. Photo credit: Liam McBurney/PA Wire Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has said that not enough sufficient progress has been made in the DUPs negotiations with the British government regarding the Windsor Framework, despite NI minister Steve Baker stating that the talks were in their final stages. Speaking to Cool FM on Monday, the DUP leader said: We are continuing our discussions with the government. "We have not yet reached a point where I can say we have made sufficient progress. "I want to achieve that, I want to get to a place where we have what the prime minister said we would, in relation to goods moving within the UK and its internal market; that our ability to trade with the rest of the United Kingdom is protected in law and respected in terms of practical measures that enable those goods to move freely across the UK." When asked if any changes or announcements can be expected before the DUPs next party conference in October, Mr Donaldson replied that he is not working to any deadline. "I want to make the progress that is required to build stability for Northern Ireland, to protect and respect in law our place within the United Kingdom and to ensure the foundations of Stormont are strong; that this place is sustainable, he continued. "Thats where I want to get to and were not there yet. Steve Baker claims a small number of unionists are holding DUP back from Stormont return The Lagan Valley MP made his comments after Steve Baker said last week that negotiations with the DUP for a return to government were coming to an end. Mr Baker said: Were waiting on the last bit of information from the DUP about what they want and when they get it we will strain every sinew to give it to them because we want them back." But, he added: What I think I see is that a small number of really important opinion formers who shape what the DUP does are really steering the life of Northern Ireland to a degree that is not really consistent with their status as unelected figures who express opinion and put pressure on the DUP. Mr Donaldson has since said: We have received further proposals from the government in terms of addressing the concerns we have about the Windsor Framework. We dont believe that framework meets our seven tests and the requirement to ensure that goods flowing within the United Kingdom are able to do so in a way that does not disadvantage businesses and consumers from Northern Ireland, so we are going back to the government with our response to those proposals and we are continuing to work for a solution to all of this." The DUPs seven tests include no effective border in the Irish Sea and ensuring no new regulatory borders develop between NI and the rest of the UK. Responding to claims that not everyone within his party may be supportive of his stance, Mr Donaldson responded: The DUP is absolutely united in its determination to get the outcome that we need for Northern Ireland, to respect our place within the UK. "Were not in a position yet to consider a final outcome, so the suggestion that somehow our party is divided on these issues is simply not true. Meanwhile, the government has received independent legal advice which indicates that meeting the DUPs demands around the Windsor Framework would require fundamentally changing the agreement and cannot be done in domestic law. The Windsor Framework was agreed by the UK Government and the EU in February in a bid to resolve issues around the Northern Ireland Protocol. The first parts of the agreement are to be implemented from October 1, Northern Ireland Secretary of State Chris Heaton-Harris has said. Michelle O'Neill says the DUP need to get on with it Gardai are treating the stabbing of a man at Dublin Airport this morning as a random attack. Emergency services were alerted to the incident outside Terminal 1 at approximately 11.30am on Sunday. Airport police responded to the serious assault within 90 seconds of being alerted to the matter, before gardai arrived on scene. One man, aged in his 50s, was stabbed a number of times in the neck and abdomen. Ambulance personnel from Dublin Airport fire service attended to the victim at the scene before he was taken to Beaumont Hospital. He is being treated there for injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening. A man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of assault and is currently being detained at a north Dublin garda station. The suspect, also aged in his 50s, is not known to the victim and there is understood to be no clear connection between the men. A source told Independent.ie: "Investigations into this matter are ongoing, but at this moment in time, this is being treated as a random attack.". The scene outside the departures hall of Terminal 1 has been preserved to facilitate a technical examination. A spokesperson for the DAA, which manages and operates Dublin Airport, said: "Airport Police at Dublin Airport responded to an incident outside Terminal 1 this morning. One person has been arrested by the Gardai. Flights at Dublin Airport are operating normally." A garda spokesperson said: "Gardai are investigating a public order incident that occurred outside Terminal 1 of Dublin Airport, Co. Dublin, at approximately 11.30am today, Sunday 17th September 2023. "A man (50s) was taken from the scene to Beaumont Hospital to be treated for injuries believed at this time to be non-life-threatening. "A second male (50s) was arrested at the scene and is currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984, at a Garda station in the North Dublin area. Gardai are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or anyone with relevant video footage, to contact them. Mary Lou McDonald has revealed that Leo Varadkar sent her flowers following her hysterectomy earlier this summer, but Mr Varadkar has since affirmed that the personal gesture was nothing more than just that. Speaking at a press conference last week, Ms McDonald told reporters: I had messages from both the Taoiseach and the Tanaiste. As a matter of fact, the Taoiseach sent me flowers - which I thought was very nice - and I had good wishes from people across the board, the Sinn Fein president added. Asked by reporters if it could be interpreted as opening the door for a future coalition with Sinn Fein within the Irish government, Mr Varadkar said: No, definitely not. The Taoiseach continued: Look, Mary Lou McDonald is somebody Ive known down the years. We used to live only a stones throw from each other in Castleknock 20 years ago. It was just a personal gesture. Appearing on Ireland AM last Thursday, Ms McDonald explained that she had a hysterectomy on June 24, which is an operation that resulted in the removal of her womb and ovaries. "It was a fairly significant surgery. Fortunately it was done by keyhole, which is great because it aids your recovery, commented the Dublin Central TD. "I had the surgery, the tumours were removed and I didnt require any further treatments or therapies, so it was serious surgery. "It knocks you off course, But I was extremely lucky. The care I got in the Rotunda Hospital can I say was outstanding. I dont think you can have that procedure and not reflect on your sense of yourself as a woman, as a mother and also the fact of getting a bit older although I am very young, Im in the first flush of my youth! Ms McDonald said she had been recovering over the last few weeks, which caused her to have a period of reflection. "Youre kind of confronted with the fact that youre not superhuman and youre at another stage in your life, she continued. "Its very important that we can talk about this issue. Its very important for womens health, that we can have these conversations and actually understand what women and girls are going through; everything from menstruation, menopause Men and boys need to be part of the conversation. Mary Lou McDonald discusses her health issues on Virgin Media One's Ireland AM Ms McDonald had revealed that she had undergone surgery in Dublin back in June, but had not specified the nature of the procedure until now. Last Wednesday, the 54-year-old posted a video on social media, saying she was "fully recovered and back at work", adding that she is now more determined than ever to lead the change that I know you so desperately want to see. Some of you know I had an operation in June and Ive been recovering over the last number of weeks, she said. I just want to say a very big thank you for all of the comments and support and messages that have been sent to me on social media, and how much they have meant to me and how much they helped me. Im happy to let you know that Im now fully recovered, back at work, and more determined than ever to lead the change that I know you so desperately want to see. In the video, she also pointed the finger at the current coalition in Irish government, saying: Fianna Fail and Fine Gael are incapable of solving the many crises that we face. Hysterectomy is the partial or total surgical removal of the uterus. It may also involve removal of the cervix, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other surrounding structures, and is one treatment for many different diseases and conditions. World leaders need to make up for lost time and strive to meet 2030 targets for sustainable development, the Taoiseach has said. Leo Varadkar will address a summit in New York on Monday on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The goals cover 17 interlinked areas for action agreed by world leaders in 2015. They are designed to increase global prosperity, tackle inequalities and protect the environment. Ahead of his visit to the US, Mr Varadkar said countries needed to redouble efforts to achieve the 2030 goals, with progress currently behind schedule. Tanaiste Micheal Martin, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Minister for the Environment Eamon Ryan are all travelling to New York (Liam McBurney/PA) My visit to the United Nations comes at a time of critical challenge for the world, he said. Ireland has been centrally involved in developing and implementing the Sustainable Development Goals which were adopted in 2015. Progress towards achieving them has been set back by the pandemic, the consequences of conflict, including in Ukraine, and by the increasing pace and ferocity of extreme weather events. I will be urging leaders to make maximum use of the time ahead to make up this lost ground, and to really focus on ensuring we reach the targets we have set ourselves by 2030. The worlds most vulnerable people in particular, are depending on us. Tanaiste Micheal Martin and Environment Minister and Green Party leader Eamon Ryan are also attending the UN in New York. On Tuesday Mr Varadkar will be at the opening of the UNs 78th General Assembly, at which he will have a number of meetings, formal and informal, with counterparts from around the world in the margins. He will deliver Irelands National Statement to the Assembly on Friday. He will also meet young Irish people involved in the tech sector; make an address to the Council on Foreign Relations on Irish foreign policy priorities; and attend a lunch for the Ireland Funds organisation. He will also visit the Irish Arts Centre, which is hosting an exhibition of work by artist Colin Davidson. I am also greatly looking forward to renewing contacts with the Irish community in New York, including young people working in tech, and board members of the Irish Funds who have done so much to promote peace and reconciliation in Ireland, he said. The Taoiseach will also travel to Miami, where he will officially open Irelands ninth consulate general in the US and meet representatives of the Irish community there. I am also pleased to have the opportunity to officially open Irelands new consulate general in Miami, our ninth in the United States, and a further signal of the Governments commitment to continuing to deepen our diplomatic presence in the Americas, he said. K-pop girl group IVE performs as part of the Hana Playlist Concert at Yonsei University in Seoul, Sunday. Hosted by Hana Bank for two days on Saturday and Sunday, the concert featuring top artists including PSY, Sung Si-kyung, MeloMance, Zerobaseone, IVE and Jannabi had around 500,000 customers applying for tickets. The bank noted that it will continue hosting diverse cultural events for customers, promoting the Hana brand in a special way. Courtesy of Hana Bank There is a strong case for China to be described as a threat to the UKs national security, the Home Secretary has said. Suella Braverman told MPs she will not shy away from calling out threats from China for what they are and the Government is considering placing Beijing in the enhanced tier of the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS) under the new National Security Act. Such a move would place stricter measures on Chinese agents and effectively categorise Beijing as a hostile state. Her comments came during Home Office questions in the Commons and after Tory former minister Stephen Hammond asked her: She will know there is continuing widespread concern at the threat to our national security from the all-state approach the Chinese are taking to espionage activities in our country. Can I urge her to ensure and tell this House that our response will mirror that and can I urge her to ensure that China are in the enhanced tier of the FIRS scheme? Ms Braverman replied: Well, national security is our overriding priority as a Government and particularly at the Home Office. And as Home Secretary, it is my job to oversee the protection of the UK from all types of threats to our national security and as the ISC (Intelligence and Security Committee)s report said, the Chinese intelligence services target the UK and its overseas interests prolifically and aggressively. I will not shy away from calling out threats from China for what they are and make it clear that their agencies regularly engage in hostile activity towards the UK. We are currently reviewing the countries that should go on to the enhanced tier of FIRS. I think there is a strong case to be made for China being put into that, but I wont I dont want to prejudice the process by which those determinations will be made. Home Secretary Suella Braverman said the Government is considering adding Beijing to the enhanced tier of the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (Peter Byrne/PA) The arrest of a parliamentary researcher under the Official Secrets Act has revived debates about the UKs relationship with the Beijing, with some Tory MPs now pushing the Government to take a stronger stance and to label China a threat. Public confirmation of the arrest came only weeks after James Cleverly became the first Foreign Secretary in five years to visit China, amid efforts to develop more pragmatic ties with the country. The Home Secretarys comments echoed the ones made by Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden last week, who also said there was a strong case for China to be added to the enhanced tier of FIRS. Roxanne Tahbaz has campaigned for the release of her father, Morad Tahbaz, from Iran (Stefan Rousseau/PA) A British-born environmentalist who was jailed in Iran has been freed as part of a prisoner exchange brokered between the US and Tehran. Morad Tahbaz, a British-American conservationist of Iranian descent, was one of five US detainees who flew out of the Iranian capital and into Doha, Qatar, on Monday as part of the deal. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is extremely pleased that Mr Tahbazs terrible ordeal is finally over, Downing Street said. Iran sought the release of five prisoners in the US in return. No 10 said the UK did not play a role in the negotiations. Mr Sunaks official spokesman said: The Prime Minister is extremely pleased that Morad Tahbazs terrible ordeal is finally over and that he will be reunited with his loved ones. By seeking to use foreign nationals as bargaining chips, the regimes leaders are fatally undermining Irans credibility on the world stage. They must stop using foreign nationals for political bargaining. Along with Mr Tahbaz, those freed from Iran included Siamak Namazi and Emad Sharghi. US officials have declined to identify the other two prisoners. The complex Qatar-brokered agreement included the unfreezing of some 6 billion US dollars (4.8 billion) of Iranian money that was blocked in South Korea after US sanctions on Iran were strengthened in 2018. The American prisoners were reportedly recently moved to house arrest at a hotel in Tehran as part of the deal before their release. Mr Tahbaz was previously held at the notorious Evin prison. The prominent conservationist and board member of the Persian Wildlife Heritage Foundation was arrested during a crackdown on environmental activists in January 2018. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison with his colleagues on vague charges of spying for the US and undermining Irans security. His wife was also placed under a travel ban by the Iranian authorities. Morad Tahbazs daughter Roxanne with Richard Ratcliffe and Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe at a press conference following Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffes release from detention in Iran in March 2022 (Victoria Jones/PA) Mr Tahbaz was freed from prison on furlough on the day in March last year that Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and British-Iranian dual national Anoosheh Ashoori were freed and allowed to return to the UK, but he was returned to custody after just two days. He was allowed medical care on another temporary furlough with his family in Tehran last July on the condition that he wore an ankle bracelet. Ms Zaghari-Ratcliffes husband said it was very hard to see Mr Tahbaz left behind in 2022 and that his family would be feeling a mixture of trepidation and real hope and fear before his plane took off. Richard Ratcliffe told BBC Radio 4s World At One programme: When you go through that experience, you certainly believe anything bad could happen at the last minute. Tensions between the West and Iran remain high over Tehrans nuclear ambitions. Amnesty International called on the UK Government to drastically upgrade its procedures to prevent more unnecessary heartbreak like the case of Mr Tahbaz. The human rights organisation said it is delighted for Mr Tahbaz and his family but criticised officials for being uninformative and too passive over the arbitrary detention of British nationals overseas. Downing Street said it was not involved in negotiations between the US and Iran and that it is important not to jump to conclusions about the process. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the State Department had worked tirelessly to bring the US citizens home and will not rest until we have brought home every wrongfully detained American. He added: We continue to work with like-minded countries to deter future hostage-taking and hold Iran and other regimes accountable for such actions, including through actions we are taking today. US citizens should not travel to Iran for any reason, and I call on any US citizens in Iran to depart immediately. Queen Elizabeth II welcoming the newly-elected leader of the Conservative party Boris Johnson during an audience in Buckingham Palace (Victoria Jones/PA) Senior officials wanted Queen Elizabeth II to raise concerns about Boris Johnsons mid-pandemic conduct in office during their private conversations, according to a documentary. The Government figures held a number of phone calls and communications with Buckingham Palace about the prospect, the BBC report says. The claims are featured in the second episode of the Laura Kuenssberg: State Of Chaos series, exploring the turmoil in Westminster between 2016 and 2022. Former prime minister Boris Johnson (Andrew Boyers/PA) Tackling coronavirus in May 2020, significant tensions were spilling over between Mr Johnsons political team and the Civil Service. Sources told the documentary that senior officials expressed their fears about the then-prime ministers conduct to the palace. The officials reportedly hoped Queen Elizabeth II would raise her concerns with Mr Johnson during their private audiences. One source claimed Mr Johnson had to be reminded of the constitution. Dominic Cummings, who served as his top adviser, and the Civil Service chief at the time Sir, now Lord, Mark Sedwill, clashed more than once. Helen MacNamara, a former deputy cabinet secretary, declined to discuss the calls but said they had been systematically in real trouble during the period. After Mr Johnson was treated in hospital for Covid-19, she said there was extreme talk in his political team about the failings of Whitehall. She said they were taking a kind of smash everything up, shut it all down, start again attitude. Mr Johnson had already caused trouble with the palace when in 2019 he suspended the Commons for five weeks ahead of the Brexit deadline. His advice to prorogue Parliament to the Queen was found to have been unlawful by the Supreme Court. Buckingham Palace and Downing Street have been asked to comment. The expanding artificial intelligence market, including chatbots such as ChatGPT, can help boost productivity and economic growth across the UK if developed responsibly, the competition watchdog has said (PA) The expanding artificial intelligence (AI) market, including chatbots such as ChatGPT, can help boost productivity and economic growth across the UK if developed responsibly, the competition watchdog has said. In a new report, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has set out a list of guiding principles for the AI market to ensure consumers are protected. They include ensuring the AI developers are accountable for their output, while access to services, diversity within the market, choice and flexibility are also key focuses alongside a push for fair dealing and transparency. The CMAs report comes amid growing concerns over the rapid development of generative AI accessible technology that can create text, images and video barely distinguishable from humans output. Regulators worldwide are stepping up their scrutiny of AI, given its explosion into general use worldwide and fears over its impact on jobs, industry, copyright, the education sector and privacy among many other areas. In its report, the CMA said competitive, responsible AI markets could see the creation of new and better products and services, as well as easier access to information, scientific and health breakthroughs and lower prices. But the watchdog warned that if competition is weak or developers fail to adhere to consumer protection law, people and businesses could be harmed through exposure to significant levels of misinformation and AI-enabled fraud. It also said that without proper principles, a handful of companies could use AI to gain or entrench positions of market power. Sarah Cardell, CMA chief executive, said: The speed at which AI is becoming part of everyday life for people and businesses is dramatic. There is real potential for this technology to turbo charge productivity and make millions of everyday tasks easier but we cant take a positive future for granted. There remains a real risk that the use of AI develops in a way that undermines consumer trust or is dominated by a few players who exert market power that prevents the full benefits being felt across the economy. The CMAs role is to help shape these markets in ways that foster strong competition and effective consumer protection, delivering the best outcomes for people and businesses across the UK. In rapidly developing markets like these, its critical we put ourselves at the forefront of that thinking, rather than waiting for problems to emerge and only then stepping in with corrective measures. Thats why we have today proposed these new principles and launched a broad programme of engagement to help ensure the development and use of foundation models evolves in a way that promotes competition and protects consumers. While I hope that our collaborative approach will help realise the maximum potential of this new technology, we are ready to intervene where necessary. As part of its engagement programme, the CMA said it will begin discussions with AI stakeholders in the UK and globally around developing its principles further and working with those groups on developing AI markets further. Chinas top foreign policy official is heading to Russia for security talks after two days of meetings with US president Joe Bidens national security adviser over the weekend in Malta. Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who also holds the ruling Communist Partys top foreign policy post, will be in Russia from Monday to Thursday for a round of China-Russia strategic security consultations, the Foreign Ministry said. The US and China are at odds over Russias invasion of Ukraine. China has refrained from taking sides in the war, saying that while a countrys territory must be respected, the West needs to consider Russias security concerns about Nato expansion. Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi shakes hands with US national security adviser Jake Sullivan in Malta (Lian Yi/Xinhua via AP) It has accused the US of prolonging the fighting by providing arms to Ukraine, weaponry that the US says is needed to defend against Russian aggression. China and Russia have grown closer in recent years as relations with the West have deteriorated for both. China is looking for support as it seeks to reshape the US-led international order into one that is more accommodating to its approach. Last month, it helped engineer an expansion of the Brics partnership, which invited six more countries to join what has been a five-nation bloc that includes China, Russia, Brazil, India and South Africa. Mr Wang discussed the situation in Ukraine in his weekend meetings with US national security adviser Jake Sullivan. Both sides described the talks as candid, substantive and constructive as they try to stabilise their rocky relationship and manage differences over security, trade, technology and human rights. Specifics of their talks were not released. Mr Wang stepped down as foreign minister at the end of last year, taking on the more senior position of Communist Party foreign affairs chief, but was called back as foreign minister in July after his successor, Qin Gang, disappeared from public view. It is unclear what happened to Qin, but he may have fallen out of favour with the leadership. More recently, Chinas defence minister Li Shangfu also has not been seen in about three weeks, sparking speculation about his fate. Members of the climate protection group Last Generation have sprayed the Brandenburg Gate with orange paint (Paul Zinken/dpa via AP) German climate activists sprayed orange paint onto Berlins Brandenburg Gate in an attempt to urge the German government to take more urgent action against climate change. Members of the group the Last Generation used fire extinguishers filled with paint to spray all six columns of the popular landmark in Germanys capital. The groups priorities include getting Germany to stop using all fossil fuels by 2030 and take short-term measures, including imposing a general speed limit of 100 kilometres per hour (62 mph) on highways, to cut emissions more quickly. In a statement, the group said: The protest makes it clear: It is time for a political change. Away from fossil fuels towards fairness. Police cordoned off the area surrounding Brandenburg Gate and confirmed that they detained 14 activists affiliated with the Last Generation. The group, best known for its protests in which activists glue themselves to roads and block traffic, plays a provocative and polarising role in German politics and society. Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner condemned the groups actions, saying their tactics go beyond legitimate forms of protest. He told German news agency dpa: With these actions, this group is not only damaging the historic Brandenburg Gate, but also our free discourse about the important issues of our time and future. In Sweden, police said they detained 17 people suspected of sabotage after climate activists entered Stockholms Bromma Airport, which operates mainly domestic routes, and sprayed red paint on one aircraft, police told Swedish news agency TT. An ambulance flight was forced to land at Stockholms main international Arlanda airport instead of Bromma, due to the action, according to Swedish airport authorities. The climate activists announced later that the action was part of a global campaign calling for a ban on private jets. The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen and Italys Premier Giorgia Meloni visit the island of Lampedusa (Cecilia Fabiano/LaPresse via AP) EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pledged the swift return of irregular migrants to their home countries and a crackdown on the brutal business of migrant smuggling during a visit with Italys premier to a tiny fishing island overwhelmed with nearly 7,000 arrivals in a single day this week. Tensions have spiked on Lampedusa, which is closer to Tunisia than the Italian mainland, with residents expressing impatience with the constant flow of migrants trying to reach Europe from North Africa arriving on their shores not just this week but for decades. Migrant numbers this week briefly surpassed that of the islands residents, who have been witness to countless tragedies. Ms von der Leyen said: We will decide who comes to the European Union, and under what circumstances. Not the smugglers. Ursula von der Leyen and Giorgia Meloni on toured a migrant center on Lampedusa that was overwhelmed with nearly 7,000 arrivals in a 24-hour period (Cecilia Fabiano/LaPresse via AP) The Red Cross said 1,500 migrants remained in the centre built to accommodate hundreds. In the face of the new crisis on Lampedusa, Italys Giorgia Meloni has pledged tougher measures and is calling for a naval blockade of North Africa to prevent migrants on smugglers boats from departing. Ms von der Leyen vowed to crack down on this brutal business of migrant smuggling and help Italy cope with the spike in arrivals. But the 10-point plan appeared to stop short of a naval blockade, at least a quick one. She instead offered support for exploring options to expand existing naval missions in the Mediterranean, or to work on new ones. The plan also includes speeding funds to Tunisia as part of a deal with the EU to block departures in exchange for aid, helping Italy accelerate asylum requests and setting up humanitarian corridors in countries of origin to discourage illegal routes. Ms von der Leyen pledged the Frontex border agencys support in ensuring the swift return of migrants to their country of origin who dont qualify to stay in the EU. And she called on EU nations to accept voluntary transfers a frequent source of discord as the EU dispatches experts to help manage and register the high number of migrants arriving in Italy. Ms von der Leyen said: It is very important for me (to be here) because irregular migration is a European challenge and it needs a European answer. So we are in this together. Ms Meloni, who has softened her once-combative stance against the EU since coming to power last year, framed Ms von der Leyens visit as a gesture of responsibility of Europe toward itself, and not just a sign of solidarity with Italy. Rescued migrants disembark from a boat on the Italian island of Lampedusa on Saturday evening (Cecilia Fabiano/LaPresse/AP) She said: If we dont work seriously all together to fight the illegal departures, the numbers of this phenomenon will not only overwhelm the border countries, but all of the others. She continued to press for an efficient naval blockade, noting that previous EU missions were not properly carried out, resulting in a Mediterranean deployment that she alleges encouraged smuggler departures though that contention is disputed by migrant experts. The Italian government intends to quickly activate a system for repatriating migrants who are not eligible to stay in Europe as part of measures to be decided during a Cabinet meeting next week, she said. Save the Children expressed hopes that the visit by the two leaders would bring concrete responses and called for a European structure to search for and rescue migrants in danger at sea. Earlier in the day, television images showed Ms Meloni speaking to islanders expressing their frustrations. She told them the government was working on a robust response, including 50 million euros (43 million) to help the island. New arrivals also have chafed at the long wait to be transferred to the mainland. TV footage has showed hundreds of people surging toward the gate as police used shields to hold them back. In other shots, individual migrants climbed over the fence of the migrant centre. The crisis is challenging unity within the EU and also Ms Melonis far-right-led government. Emad Sharghi, Morad Tahbaz and Siamak Namazi, former prisoners in Iran, walk off a Qatar Airways flight that brought them out of Tehran and to Doha, Qatar, on Monday (Lujain Jo/AP/PA) Five prisoners sought by the US in a prisoner swap with Iran including British-American-Iranian Morad Tahbaz have landed in Qatar, officials said. It is part of a deal that saw nearly six billion dollars (4.85 billion) in Iranian assets unfrozen. Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home, US President Joe Biden said in a statement released as the plane carrying the group from Tehran landed in Doha, Qatar. After the plane slowed to a stop, three of the prisoners walked down the ramp and were greeted by the US ambassador to Qatar, Timmy Davis. The former prisoners hugged the ambassador and others. The three Mr Tahbaz, Siamak Namazi and Emad Sharghi then wrapped their arms around their shoulders and walked off to a building in the airport. In a statement issued on his behalf after landing, Mr Namazi said: I would not be free today, if it wasnt for all of you who didnt allow the world to forget me. Emad Sharghi, Morad Tahbaz and Siamak Namazi, former prisoners in Iran, leave a Qatar Airways plane that brought them out of Tehran and to Doha, Qatar (Lujain Jo/AP/PA) Thank you for being my voice when I could not speak for myself and for making sure I was heard when I mustered the strength to scream from behind the impenetrable walls of Evin Prison, Mr Namazi said. In addition to the five prisoners, two of the imprisoned Americans family members, Effie Namazi and Vida Tahbaz, who had been held under travel bans in Iran, also were on the plane. The women, too, clasped arms and kissed on the tarmac in Qatar. US officials have declined to identify the two other released prisoners. In a statement, Mr Sharghis sister, Neda, said she cant wait to hug my brother and never let him go. This is my brother, not an abstract policy, she added. We are talking about human lives. There is nothing partisan about saving the lives of innocent Americans and today should be a moment of American unity as we welcome them home. The cash represents money South Korea owed Iran but had not yet paid for oil purchased before the US imposed sanctions on such transactions in 2019. Despite the deal, tensions are almost certain to remain high between the US and Iran, which are locked in various disputes, including over Tehrans nuclear programme. Iran says the programme is peaceful, but it now enriches uranium closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. Morad Tahbaz, Siamak Namazi and Emad Sharghi walk away arm in arm from the plane that brought them out of Tehran in a prisoner swap with Iran (Lujain Jo/AP/PA) The planned exchange has unfolded amid a major American military build-up in the Persian Gulf, with the possibility of US troops boarding and guarding commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of all oil shipments pass. Earlier, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani said that the exchange would take place Monday after nearly six billion dollars in once-frozen Iranian assets reached Qatar. Fortunately Irans frozen assets in South Korea were released and God willing today the assets will start to be fully controlled by the government and the nation, Mr Kanaani said. On the subject of the prisoner swap, it will happen today and five prisoners, citizens of the Islamic Republic, will be released from the prisons in the US, he added. Five imprisoned citizens who were in Iran will be given to the US side. He said two of the Iranian prisoners will stay in the US. Meanwhile, Nour News, a website believed to be close to Irans security apparatus, said two of the Iranian prisoners had arrived in Doha for the swap. Mohammad Reza Farzin, Irans Central Bank chief, later came on state television to acknowledge the receipt of more than 5.5 billion euros in accounts in Qatar. Months ago, Iran had anticipated getting as much as seven billion. US President Joe Biden welcomed the prisoner exchange (Andrew Harnik/AP/PA) The exchange comes ahead of the convening of world leaders at the UN General Assembly this week in New York, where Irans hard-line President Ebrahim Raisi will speak. The deal has already opened Mr Biden to fresh criticism from Republicans and others who say that the administration is helping boost the Iranian economy at a time when Iran poses a growing threat to American troops and Middle East allies. That could have implications in his re-election campaign. Former US president Donald Trump, currently the lead Republican challenger in the polls against Mr Bidens 2024 re-election bid, called it an absolutely ridiculous deal on the Truth Social social media site. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell accused Mr Biden of rewarding and incentivising Tehrans bad behaviour. Mr Biden held what the White House described as an emotional phone call with the families of the freed Americans after their release. In his statement, Mr Biden urged Americans not to travel to Iran, and he demanded more information on what happened to Bob Levinson, an American who went missing several years ago. Mr Biden also announced sanctions on former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and the Iranian Ministry of Intelligence. The prisoners freed on Monday were Mr Namazi, who was detained in 2015 and was later sentenced to 10 years in prison on spying charges; Mr Sharghi, a venture capitalist sentenced to 10 years; and Mr Tahbaz, a British-American conservationist of Iranian descent who was arrested in 2018 and also received a 10-year sentence. All their charges have been widely criticised by their families, activists and the US government. US officials have declined to identify the fourth and fifth prisoners. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken thanked the Qataris, Swiss, South Koreans and Omanis for helping in the exchange, and pledged in a statement to keep pressing for accountability for Iran and other regimes for the cruel practice of wrongful detention. Iranians Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani, right, and Mehrdad Moein Ansari pose at Doha airport in Qatar after being released from prison in the US in a prisoner swap with Iran (Nour News via AP/PA) The five prisoners Iran has said it seeks are mostly held over allegedly trying to export banned material to Iran, such as dual use electronics that can be used by a military. The two that Nour News said were in Doha were Mehrdad Ansari, an Iranian sentenced to 63 months in prison in 2021 for obtaining equipment that could be used in missiles, electronic warfare, nuclear weapons and other military gear, and Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani, an Iranian charged in 2021 over allegedly unlawfully exporting laboratory equipment to Iran. The cash represents money South Korea owed Iran but had not yet paid for oil purchased before the US imposed sanctions on such transactions in 2019. The US maintains that, once in Qatar, the money will be held in restricted accounts and will only be able to be used for humanitarian goods, such as medicine and food. Those transactions are currently allowed under American sanctions targeting the Islamic Republic over its advancing nuclear programme. Iranian government officials have largely concurred with that explanation, though some hard-liners have insisted, without providing evidence, that there would be no restrictions on how Tehran spends the money. Iran and the US have a history of prisoner swaps dating back to the 1979 US Embassy takeover and hostage crisis following the Islamic Revolution. Their most recent major exchange happened in 2016, when Iran came to a deal with world powers to restrict its nuclear program in return for an easing of sanctions. The West accuses Iran of using foreign prisoners including those with dual nationality as bargaining chips, an allegation Tehran rejects. Negotiations over a major prisoner swap faltered after then-President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew America from the nuclear deal in 2018. From the following year on, a series of attacks and ship seizures attributed to Iran have raised tensions. Meanwhile, Irans nuclear programme now enriches closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. While the head of the United Nations nuclear watchdog has warned that Iran now has enough enriched uranium to produce several bombs, months more would likely be needed to build a weapon and potentially miniaturize it to put it on a missile if Iran decided to pursue one. Iran maintains its nuclear programme is peaceful, and the US intelligence community has kept its assessment that Iran is not pursuing an atomic bomb. Iran has taken steps in recent months to settle some issues with the International Atomic Energy Agency. But the advances in its programme have led to fears of a wider regional conflagration as Israel, itself a nuclear power, has said it would not allow Tehran to develop the bomb. Israel bombed both Iraq and Syria to stop their nuclear programmes, giving the threat more weight. It also is suspected in carrying out a series of killings targeting Irans nuclear scientists. Iran also supplies Russia with the bomb-carrying drones Moscow uses to target sites in Ukraine in its war on Kyiv, which remains another major dispute between Tehran and Washington. The same Ohio river valley where the Wright brothers pioneered human flight will soon be manufacturing electric planes that take off and land vertically, under an agreement between the state and Joby Aviation. When youre talking about air taxis, thats the future, Republican governor Mike DeWine told The Associated Press. We find this very, very exciting not only for the direct jobs and indirect jobs its going to create, but like Intel, its a signal to people that Ohio is looking to the future. This is a big deal for us. Around the world, electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft are entering the mainstream, though questions remain about noise levels and charging demands. The facility will manufacture cutting-edge electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (Eric Adams/Joby Aviation via AP) Still, developers say the planes are nearing the day when they will provide a wide-scale alternative to shuttle individual people or small groups from rooftops and parking garages to their destinations, while avoiding the congested roads below. Jobys decision to locate its first scaled manufacturing facility at a 140-acre site at Dayton International Airport delivers on two decades of groundwork laid by the states leaders, Republican lieutenant governor Jon Husted said. Importantly, the site is near Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and the headquarters of the US Air Force Research Laboratories. For a hundred years, the Dayton area has been a leader in aviation innovation, Mr Husted said. But capturing a large-scale manufacturer of aircraft has always eluded the local economy there. With this announcement, that aspiration has been realised. The Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, lived and worked in Dayton. In 1910, they opened the first US airplane factory there. To connect the historical dots, Jobys formal announcement on Monday will take place at Orville Wrights home, Hawthorn Hill, and conclude with a ceremonial flypast of a replica of the Wright Model B Flyer. The deal will create hundreds of jobs (Eric Adams/Joby Aviation via AP) Jobys production aircraft is designed to transport a pilot and four passengers at speeds of up to 200mph, with a maximum range of 100 miles. Its quiet noise profile is barely audible against the backdrop of most cities, the company said. The plan is to place them in aerial ride-sharing networks beginning in 2025. The efforts of the California-based company are supported by partnerships with Toyota, Delta Airlines, Intel and Uber. Joby is a 14-year-old company that went public in 2021 and became the first eVTOL firm to receive US Air Force airworthiness certification. The company plans to build a facility capable of delivering up to 500 aircraft a year and creating 2,000 jobs. The US Department of Energy has invited Joby to apply for a loan to support development of the facility as a clean energy project. Joby CEO JoeBen Bevirt told the AP that the company chose Ohio after an extensive and competitive search. Its financial package was not the largest but the chance to bring the operation to the birthplace of aviation with a workforce experienced in the field sealed the deal, he said. Ohio is the number one state when it comes to supplying parts for Boeing and Airbus, Mr Bevirt said. Ohio is number three in the nation on manufacturing jobs and that depth of manufacturing prowess, that workforce, is critical to us as we look to build this manufacturing facility. Permanent Representative of the Republic of Korea to the OECD Choi Sang-dae By Anna J. Park Choi Sang-dae, former second vice minister of economy and finance, has been appointed as the Permanent Representative of Korea to the OECD earlier this month. Choi will officially begin his years-long duties in Paris, France, on Sept. 21. He is Korea's 13th ambassador to the OECD. Throughout his career of over 30 years in the Korean government, Choi has earned renown as a budget expert, taking up a range of key positions at the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the Ministry of Planning and Budget, as well as the presidential office. Choi also worked as a senior economist at the World Bank in Washington, D.C., building a global career in the sustainable development field as well. Under the Yoon administration, the former second vice minister played a leading role in preparing and passing supplementary budget plans aimed at supporting small and medium-sized businesses and ensuring public welfare and livelihoods. Permanent Representative of the Republic of Korea to the OECD Choi Sang-dae, former second vice minister of the economy and finance, speaks during a government budget ministerial meeting on June 29. Newsis Roxanne Tahbaz holds a picture of her father Morad Tahbaz, who is jailed in Iran, during a protest outside the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (Stefan Rousseau/PA) A total of 6 billion dollars (4.84bn) of Iranian assets once frozen in South Korea is now in Qatar, a key element for a planned swap of prisoners including a British citizen between Tehran and the US, an Iranian official said. Nasser Kanaani made the comment during a news conference on state television but the feed cut immediately after his remarks without explanation. The issue of swap of prisoners will be done on this day and five prisoners, citizens of the Islamic Republic, will be released from the prisons in the US, Mr Kanaani said. Five imprisoned citizens who were in Iran will be given to the US side reciprocally, based on their will. We expect these two issues fully take place based on agreement. He said two of the Iranian prisoners will stay in the US. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani speaks in Tehran (Iranian Foreign Ministry via AP) The announcement by Mr Kanaani comes weeks after Iran said that five Iranian-Americans are under house arrest as part of a confidence-building move while Seoul allowed the frozen assets, held in South Korean currency, to be converted into euros. That money was then sent to Qatar, an interlocutor between Tehran and Washington in the negotiations. One of the five prisoners is Morad Tahbaz, a British-American conservationist of Iranian descent who was arrested in 2018 and received a 10-year sentence for alleged spying. The swap unfolded amid a major American military build-up in the Persian Gulf, with the possibility of US troops boarding and guarding commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of all oil shipments pass. The deal has opened President Joe Biden to fresh criticism from Republicans and others who say that the administration is helping boost the Iranian economy at a time when Iran poses a growing threat to US troops and Middle East allies. On the US side, Washington has said the planned swap includes Siamak Namazi, who was detained in 2015 and later sentenced to 10 years in prison on internationally criticised spying charges, Emad Sharghi, a venture capitalist sentenced to 10 years, as well as Mr Tahbaz. US officials have so far declined to identify the fourth and fifth prisoner. The five prisoners Iran has said it seeks are mostly held over allegedly trying to export material to Iran. President Joe Biden could face criticism over the prisoner swap (Andrew Harnik/AP) The final dollar amount from Seoul could be anywhere between 6 billion to 7 billion, depending on exchange rates. The cash represents money South Korea owed Iran but had not yet paid for oil purchased before the Trump administration imposed sanctions on such transactions in 2019. The US maintains that, once in Qatar, the money will be held in restricted accounts and will only be able to be used for humanitarian goods, such as medicine and food. Those transactions are allowed under American sanctions targeting the Islamic Republic over its advancing nuclear programme. Iranian government officials have largely concurred with that explanation, though some hard-liners have insisted, without providing evidence, that there would be no restrictions on how Tehran spends the money. Iran and the US have a history of prisoner swaps dating back to the 1979 US Embassy takeover and hostage crisis following the Islamic Revolution. Their most recent major exchange happened in 2016, when Iran came to a deal with world powers to restrict its nuclear programme in return for an easing of sanctions. Four American captives, including Washington Post journalist Jason Rezaian, flew home from Iran at the time, and several Iranians in the US won their freedom. That same day, President Barack Obamas administration airlifted 400 million dollars in cash to Tehran. Iran has received international criticism over its targeting of people with dual citizenship. The West accuses Iran of using foreign prisoners as bargaining chips, an allegation Tehran rejects. Negotiations over a major prisoner swap faltered after then-president Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew America from the nuclear deal in 2018. From the following year on, a series of attacks and ship seizures attributed to Iran have raised tensions. Meanwhile, Irans nuclear programme now enriches closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. While the head of the United Nations nuclear watchdog has warned that Iran now has enough enriched uranium to produce several bombs, months more would likely be needed to build a weapon and potentially miniaturise it to put it on a missile if Iran decided to pursue one. The US intelligence community has maintained its assessment that Iran is not pursuing an atomic bomb. Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is starting a US trip in California to talk about technology and artificial intelligence with billionaire businessman Elon Musk. The Israeli leader posted on Monday on Mr Musks social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, that he plans to talk with the Tesla chief executive about how we can harness the opportunities and mitigate the risks of AI for the good of civilisation. Mr Netanyahus high-profile visit to San Francisco comes at a time when Mr Musk is facing accusations of tolerating antisemitic messages on his social media platform, while Mr Netanyahu is confronting political opposition at home and abroad. Protesters gathered early on Monday outside the Fremont, California factory where Tesla makes its cars. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was meeting billionaire businessman Elon Musk during a trip to the US (Ohad Zwigenberg/AP/PA) A video livestream kicked off shortly before 9.30am local time with Mr Netanyahu and the Tesla boss. Mr Netanyahus official Twitter account posted that he is holding a a one on one conversation with Mr Musk. The two kicked off with a joke about deepfakes and quickly launched into a discussion of artificial intelligence as both a blessing and a curse for humanity. Mr Netanyahu told Mr Musk he hopes that within the confines of the First Amendment he can find a way to clamp down on antisemitism and other forms of hatred on his social media platform. I encourage you and urge you to find the balance. Its a tough one, Mr Netanyahu said. Mr Musk said that with 100 million to 200 million posts on Twitter in a day, some of those are gonna be bad. He then reiterated the platforms policy to not promote or amplify hate speech. Under Mr Musk, the former Twitter changed its rules so that objectionable posts are not usually removed, but instead their visibility is limited so people have to seek it out if they want to see it. Mr Musk calls this freedom of speech, not freedom of reach. Hundreds of thousands of Israelis have taken part in nine months of demonstrations against Mr Netanyahus plan to overhaul Israels judicial system. Those protests have spread overseas, with groups of Israeli expats staging demonstrations during visits by Mr Netanyahu and other members of his Cabinet. Meanwhile, the Anti-Defamation League, a prominent Jewish civil rights organisation, has accused Mr Musk of allowing antisemitism and hate speech to spread on Twitter, in part by amplifying the messages of neo-Nazis and white supremacists who want to ban the league by engaging with them on the platform. In a September 4 post, Mr Musk claimed that the league was trying to kill this platform by falsely accusing it and me of being anti-Semitic. In other posts, he said the league was responsible for a 60% drop in revenue at Twitter. The group met this month with Twitters chief executive, Linda Yaccarino. Both Mr Musk and Ms Yaccarino have recently posted messages saying they oppose antisemitism. From California, Mr Netanyahu heads to New York, where he is scheduled to address the United Nations General Assembly and meet US President Joe Biden and other world leaders, his office said. They include German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, as well as South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Mr Netanyahu says the judicial overhaul plan is needed to curb the powers of unelected judges, whom he and his allies say are liberal and overly interventionist. Critics say his plan is a power grab that will destroy the countrys system of checks and balances and push it toward autocratic rule. Leading figures in Israels influential high-tech community have played a prominent role in the protests. They say weakening the judiciary will hurt the countrys business climate and drive away foreign investment. Israels currency, the shekel, has plunged in value this year in a sign of weakening foreign investment. An assault unit commander runs to his position at the frontline in Andriivka, Donetsk region (Alex Babenko/AP) Six Ukrainian deputy defence ministers have been fired following the dismissal two weeks ago of Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov in a corruption scandal. Deputy defence ministers including Hanna Maliar, Vitalii Deyneha and Denys Sharapov, as well as the state secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Kostiantyn Vashchenko, were fired, according to the Telegram account of Taras Melnychuk, permanent representative of the Cabinet of Ministers. Mr Melnychuk provided no explanation of the sacking but the government has been investigating accusations of corruption in the military related to purchasing equipment. Rustem Umerov, a Crimean Tatar lawmaker who took over as defence minister, did not immediately issue a statement. A Ukrainian serviceman walks through trees near the frontline (Alex Babenko/AP) Mr Reznikov was removed earlier this month after a scandal involving the defence ministrys procurement of military jackets at three times their cost. He denied the allegations but resigned. The reshuffling of the department came a day after Ukraines military said it captured the village of Klishchiivka from Russian troops after months of fierce battles. Fighting continued on Monday as troops tried to hold the village south of the Russian-held city of Bakhmut in the eastern Donetsk region. Its recapture followed the retaking of the nearby village of Andriivka. The enemy is trying with all his might to regain lost positions, Ms Maliar said in a briefing on Monday before she was fired. Therefore, our fighters hold back the enemys attacks there and are entrenched at the achieved frontiers. Retaking Klishchiivka is considered tactically important, allowing Ukrainian forces to further extend their gains around Bakhmut. In other fighting, six civilians were killed and 16 injured over the past 24 hours, the presidential office reported. Russians attacked residential areas in eight cities and villages in the Donetsk region, including Avdiivka and Kurdiumivka, killing one and wounding four. Five artillery attacks in Kherson killed one person and wounded another. In the nearby town of Beryslav, Russians dropped explosives from a drone near the local bus station, injuring four people, the presidential office said. The Ukrainian air force said it intercepted all 17 cruise missiles launched by Russia and 18 of 24 Shaded drones in the southern regions of Mykolaiv and Odesa early on Monday morning. Oleh Kiper, regional governor of Odesa, said a recreational facility in the town of Vylkovo was damaged in the attack but no casualties were reported. Vylkovo, often referred to as the Ukrainian Venice because of its numerous canals, is located in the Danube delta on the border with Romania. In his efforts to draw more support, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is heading to the US where he is expected at the White House and on Capitol Hill this week during the United Nations General Assembly. His visit to Washington comes as Congress debates President Joe Bidens request to provide as much as 24 billion dollars (19 billion) in military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine. One supporter in Congress, Senator Mark Kelly, a Democrat from Arizona, met Ukraine officials and soldiers on Monday in Kyiv to assess the militarys current needs and discuss ATACMS tactical ballistic missiles, which Mr Biden is considering providing. No single capability is going to make the difference between winning and losing, said Mr Kelly, who praised forces for progress, though he said he wished it would move faster. Branagh brings his A-game to third film in detective series Kenneth Branagh has enjoyed a new cinematic life since donning his Hercule Poirot moustache in 2017. Most of the movie-going world seemed to love Murder on the Orient Express, the Belfast actors first stab at bringing Agatha Christies much-loved literary creations back to the big screen. The sequel, 2022s Death on the Nile, garnered a more mixed critical response but still delivered the box-office goods. Now a third adventure is here for the debonair detective, and it keeps the franchise ticking over very nicely indeed. As a tasty and lucrative series that allows Branagh, as both director and star, to indulge his love of classic movies while also raking in enough cash for him to head off and do more personal projects whenever he fancies, its pretty hard to beat really. While A Haunting In Venice reunites Ken with co-writer Michael Green and the novels of Christie one more time, its not a carbon copy of whats gone before by any means. Based on the novel Halloween Party, the story unfolds in post-Second World War Venice, where our crime-solving hero lives in retirement, having turned his back on the world. Hes lured back to work by old crony Ariadne Oliver (Tina Fey), who asks him to help her solve a mystery that involves grieving mother Rowena Drake (Kelly Reilly), her dead daughter Alicia (Rowan Robinson) and a supposedly fake medium known as Mrs Reynolds (Michelle Yeoh). Ariadne wants Hercule to expose the medium as a charlatan, but when the detective arrives at a seance in a decaying old Venice mansion, he sees and hears things even he cant understand. Kenneth Branagh in A Haunting in Venice Could the strange mystic, played beautifully by Yeoh, hold the key to the mysteries of the afterlife and what happens when a dead body suddenly reappears? Ill say no more, but one thing is for certain: the list of suspects will get shorter and shorter as the film proceeds, and someone wont be making it to the final credits. Christie was never known for penning overtly supernatural stories, but this delivers all the trimmings of a traditional ghost tale, adds some stylish horror movie tropes and blends it all together with a more standard whodunnit thriller. The results are visually stunning at times, with the ghostly apparitions and horror movie jumps well captured by Branagh throughout. While some may feel the crime-solving the central character is known and loved for takes second place to the spooky elements a little too much, its still a fine film to lose yourself in on a wet Sunday afternoon. Branagh is excellent as the slightly befuddled Poirot, a man doubting himself as he returns to the fold, his lifelong disbelief in the spirit world challenged by what he sees, while Fey is a lively comic presence in a film that sometimes takes itself a little too seriously. The rest of the cast is a little light on the star turns of old. While our own Jamie Dornan does turn up as a miserable widower with PTSD, the trio of Branagh, Fey and Yeoh are enough to keep things firmly on track. The end result is a stylish old-school thriller thats ideal for Halloween. The horror moments are never too full-on and the mystery has plenty of twists and turns to keep you interested. Still not sure about that ridiculous moustache though. Ralphs verdict: A Haunting In Venice (12A): Branagh and his bad moustache are back again in a spooky thriller thats heavy on the ghosts and a little light on the crime-solving 3/5 Indonesian Navy personnel prepare the vessel Dr. Radjiman Wedyodiningrat, which will be used in the first joint drill by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations member-states, called the ASEAN Solidarity Exercise, at Batu Ampar Pier, Batam, in Riau Islands Province, Indonesia, Sept. 18, 2023. All 10 ASEAN states will begin a joint military exercise Tuesday in Indonesia, the first time such an event will involve only the blocs members even as Beijing asserts its sweeping claims in the disputed South China Sea. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations has held joint drills with other countries, including the United States and China, but this ASEAN-only exercise is a sign of growing cooperation and unity on maritime security, analysts told BenarNews. The 10 ASEAN members will be joined by prospective 11th member, Timor Leste, during the five-day non-combat exercise. Officially called ASEAN Solidarity Exercise, it will take place around Batam and Natuna Islands near the South China Sea, Lt. Col. Abidin Tobba, media coordinator for the event, told BenarNews on Monday. Eleven countries and hundreds of personnel will take part in the exercise, including Myanmar, Abidin said without specifying why it was participating. Myanmars military junta has been persona non grata at ASEAN meetings because of its failure to implement a regional peace plan agreed two months after the army seized power from an elected government in February 2021. The drills will include joint maritime patrols, medical evacuation, search and rescue and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in simulated affected areas, the Indonesian military said. They are expected to enhance regional stability and boost our countries economy, according to Indonesias military commander, Adm. Yudo Margono, who proposed the ASEAN exercise during a meeting of the blocs defense forces chiefs in Bali in June. Indonesia is this years holder of the rotating ASEAN chairmanship. The exercise comes three weeks after Beijing released a new map including Taiwan and practically the entire South China Sea. But Southeast Asian countries and Taiwan rejected the map. China claims almost all of the South China Sea, including waters within the exclusive economic zones of Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam, which are ASEAN members, and Taiwan. Indonesia is not a claimant in the dispute, but has repeatedly protested against Chinese fishing boats and coast guard vessels entering its waters near the Natuna Islands. A U.N. arbitration court in 2016 ruled that Chinas nine-dash line, a boundary used by Beijing on Chinese maps to illustrate its claim, was invalid. But Beijing has rejected the ruling and insisted it has jurisdiction over all areas within the dashed line. In the latest incident, Chinese ships sailed uncomfortably close to and hemmed in a Philippine Coast Guard ship as it escorted civilian supply boats Manilas military outpost in Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal. A BenarNews correspondent and other reporters, who were given special permission to travel aboard two Philippine Coast guard Ships for a resupply mission, witnessed the tense moments at sea. An Indonesian Naval cadets uses binoculars as he monitors the signal from the KRI Diponegoro-365 during a joint exercise on guarding Indonesias borders, in the North Natuna sea, Riau islands, Indonesia, Oct. 1, 2021. [Muhammad Adimaja/Antara Foto/via Reuters] ASEAN members Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Singapore have no connection to the dispute but are participating in the exercise because it is valuable and sends a message to the superpowers, said Vinsensio Dugis, head of the ASEAN Studies Center at Airlangga University in Surabaya. Not all are involved in the South China Sea dispute, but this [exercise] shows that even those who do not have direct claims are also concerned about this issue, he told BenarNews. He said the exercise also signals that ASEAN does not want to be seen as siding with either China or the United States, which have been engaged in a strategic rivalry in the Indo-Pacific region. However, the South China Sea issue has caused conflict within ASEAN before, including, media reports said, on the location of the joint exercise. Cambodia and Myanmar, which have strong ties to China, had initially not confirmed participation in the exercise when it was announced in June. Some media reports said Cambodia had opposed the earlier planned location in the North Natuna Sea, which lies within Indonesias exclusive economic zone (EEZ) but parts of which China claims. Later in June, Indonesia changed the ASEAN exercise location to Batam near Singapore and the waters of South Natuna, citing their suitability for non-combat drills such as joint maritime patrols, medical evacuation and disaster relief. Indonesia renamed the southern reaches of the South China Sea the North Natuna Sea in 2017 to emphasize its sovereignty over those waters, which encompass natural gas fields. Indonesia, as well as Malaysia and Vietnam have accused China of disrupting their oil and gas exploration activities with frequent incursions by China Coast Guard and maritime militia ships. The U.S., which is not a South China Sea claimant but is in a defense treaty with ASEAN member Philippines, has challenged Chinas claims by conducting freedom of navigation operations in the waterway. And with Beijing renewing its warning about invading U.S. ally Taiwan, which China considers a renegade province, the strife between the two superpowers has made Southeast Asia a geopolitical tinderbox, analysts have said. ASEANs decision to hold this members-only exercise is an effort to maintain regional stability amid this superpower rivalry, analysts said. The intention of the exercise is to show joint agency, regardless of the contention and rivalry between great powers, Muhammad Waffaa Kharisma, a researcher at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Jakarta, told BenarNews. It still has high value because it practically addresses actual needs such as disaster response, search and rescue, etc. that have been overshadowed by the U.S.-China relations and high politics issues, he said. Indonesian President Joko Jokowi Widodo (right) hands over the national flag to be raised during a ceremony marking the countrys 78th Independence Day at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, Aug. 17, 2023. Human rights and democracy activists on Monday denounced President Joko Jokowi Widodo for potential abuse of power after he bragged that he had access to intelligence agencies information on political parties and their election strategies. The constitution says the purpose of collecting intelligence is to detect threats to national security, activists said, adding political parties should not be monitored because they are not a risk to the countrys security. The purpose of intelligence information is to protect the nation from its enemies and threats, not to interfere with the political affairs and activities of civil society and parties, said Julius Ibrani, a representative of the Civil Society Coalition for Security Sector Reform, a group of NGOs. We consider this a political scandal and a serious problem in democracy that must be investigated thoroughly. The parliament should summon the president and related intelligence agencies for an explanation, Julius told BenarNews. On Saturday, Mohammad Mahfud MD, the coordinating minister for political, legal and security affairs, told CNN Indonesia it was normal for Jokowi to have intelligence information about the political situation, noting it did not mean he would use the information for political interests. Jokowi revealed on Saturday that he had data, information on survey results and the direction of political party support from the State Intelligence Agency, the police intelligence unit and the Strategic Intelligence Agency of the Indonesian military. I know the ins and outs of the political parties. I also know the direction they are headed, Jokowi said at a Bogor event for a volunteer group that supported him in the 2019 presidential election. I have intelligence from BIN [the State Intelligence Agency]. I have intelligence from the National Police. I have intelligence from the TNI [military], and other information, he said. Jokowis revelation came while he was urging his supporters to vote for the right candidate in the Feb. 14, 2024, presidential election. He said the election was critical because the next leader would determine whether Indonesia could become a developed country. Officials at the State Intelligence Agency could not be reached for comment. Julius, of the coalition of NGOs, said the collection of data and information by intelligence can be used only for policy making purposes, not misused to spy on political actors for Jokowis personal political interests. Intelligence agencies provide information to the president, but it should be related to state security and in a democratic country, political parties are not a national security threat, he said. Then-incumbent presidential candidate Joko Jokowi Widodo speaks during a campaign rally at Gelora Bung Karno stadium in Jakarta, April 13, 2019. [Willy Kurniawan/Reuters] Activists had suspected that the government spied on political opponents after devices of dozens of senior government and military officials were allegedly targeted by Israeli spyware Pegasus, Julius said. In June IndonesiaLeaks, a consortium of media outlets and investigative journalists, reported that Indonesias State Intelligence Agency and police may have used Pegasus to spy on politicians and activists. Among the targets were former opposition leader Prabowo Subianto, now defense minister, and Airlangga Hartarto, the economy minister and chairman of the Golkar Party, the whistle blower service said. Pegasus is spyware developed by the Israeli cyber-arms company NSO Group that is designed to be covertly and remotely installed on mobile phones running iOS and Android. While the NSO Group markets Pegasus as a product for fighting crime and terrorism, governments around the world have routinely used the spyware to surveil journalists, lawyers, political dissidents and human rights activists, reports have said. Jakarta supports Palestinian statehood and does not recognize Israel, but the devices to hack into phones and install the software did not come into the country directly from the Jewish state, according to IndonesiaLeaks. Abusing the presidents authority Mahfud MD, the chief security minister, said the president needed to have intelligence information about political actors in the country, both the good and the bad ones. Who has shady work, who has clean work, thats what the president knows, he was quoted as saying by CNN Indonesia. Whats the use of intelligence agencies if they dont report to the president? Surya Tjandra, a spokesman for opposition presidential hopeful Anies Baswedan, said any intelligence information should not be used for personal interests and must be obtained legally. The important thing is that the information should not be for the personal interest of the president, and fully used to help make policies and maintain democracy, he told BenarNews. Intelligence data was not public information, said Feri Amsari, a constitutional law analyst at Andalas University in Padang. If Jokowi uses it to monitor parties, it means he is abusing the presidents authority for short-term political interests, Feri told BenarNews. It is [an] abuse of power, because the president cannot use state tools, in this case BIN, to spy on parties, Feri said. Human rights groups and analysts have said Indonesia has seen democratic backsliding under Jokowis leadership. They cite rampant restrictions on civil liberties and police surveillance. In an October 2022 report, rights NGO KontraS said the climate of freedom had worsened in the three years of Jokowis second term, pointing to cases of arbitrary arrests and attacks on government dissidents. In a separate development on Sunday, the Democratic Party announced its support for Prabowo as presidential candidate for the 2024 election, joining a coalition of parties led by the former general who lost narrowly to Jokowi in 2014 and 2019. The 2024 presidential election is expected to be a race among Prabowo and two other contenders: Ganjar Pranowo, the former governor of Central Java and the candidate of Jokowis Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle; and former Jakarta Gov. Anies Baswedan. Malaysias deal to double palm oil exports to China annually is a move to offset potential revenue losses from the European Unions ban on commodities that are linked to deforestation, analysts said on Monday. The 2.5 billion ringgits (U.S. $533 million) deal announced Sunday between Malaysias largest palm oil company, Sime Darby Oils International Ltd., and Chinas GuangXi Beibu Gulf International Port Group was part of nearly 20 billion ringgits in investment agreements signed during Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahims one-day visit to Nanning, China. What makes it interesting is the 500,000 tons of palm oil exports, which will undoubtedly secure the interests of smallholders and small-scale palm oil producers, Anwar told reporters at the Nanning Marriott Hotel on Sunday after meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, referring to the total amount Malaysia will export annually under the deal. This is the first time that China has asked for a big increase. Usually, it depends on price rates and considerations, but this time its a fixed import agreement from China. A trading and distribution hub for refined palm oil is to be established in Qinzhou, China, under the memorandum of understanding, Malaysian state news agency Bernama said. To address climate change, European Union regulations prohibit the sale or export of commodities such as palm oil, soy, coffee, cacao and rubber within the EU if they were cultivated on land deforested after 2020. Palm oil is a commodity used in a variety of products from soap to peanut butter. But clearing large tracts of forests for palm oil plantations causes an increase in carbon emissions, which could lead to global warming. Analysts noted that with Malaysias exports to Europe expected to fall, increasing exports to China would help small farmers. For Malaysia, it is a way to address the economic needs of its palm oil industry and smallholders as demand from Europe and elsewhere in the developed world is projected to decline, analyst Chong Ja Ian of the National University of Singapore told BenarNews. China mainly secures a commodity to meet its domestic market demands. A farmer collects oil palm fruits from a plantation in Kuala Langat, Selangor, Malaysia, Nov. 12, 2021. [S. Mahfuz/BenarNews] An increase in Malaysian palm oil exports to China would be a win-win for both countries, analyst Collins Chong Yew Keat, from the University of Malaya, told BenarNews. China remains pragmatic in securing its own energy needs and interests, he said. The timing is also critical not only for the agenda of Beijing in securing its food security now amidst the start of its economic decline, it is also suited to ensure that the region and Malaysia remain dependent on the Chinese economy and [its] buying power. China made a wise move to diversify its supply and import more from Malaysia to meet domestic demand, said Lee Pei May of the International Islamic University Malaysia. Palm oil is primarily used for food in China, and as economic activities begin to pick up, especially in tourism, it will lead to higher consumption of palm oil, Lee Pei told BenarNews. China did not specifically comment on the palm oil deal in a statement on the State Council website about Li hosting Anwar. In June, the EU, Malaysia and Indonesia agreed to form a task force to implement Europes rule banning commodities linked to deforestation. The announcement came after EU environment chief Florika Fink-Hooijer visited the two Southeast Asian countries to discuss the issue. Indonesia is the worlds largest exporter of palm oil. The task force was expected to focus on commodities such as palm oil, wood, rubber, coffee and cocoa, which are important for both countries economies, said a joint statement from the EU, Indonesias economic ministry, Malaysias trade ministry and a regional palm oil council. A China Coast Guard ship shadows the Philippine Coast Guards BRP Malabrigo during its patrol at Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea, April 23, 2023. The Philippine Coast Guard on Monday blamed Chinese maritime militia ships for destroying coral reefs in Manila-claimed waters in the South China Sea. The coast guards announcement came after the Philippine military accused the Chinese militia of massive destruction, particularly in the seabed of Rozul Reef and Escoda Shoal, features within the countrys internationally recognized exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Divers had carried out underwater surveys of the seabed, said Commodore Jay Tarriela, the coast guard spokesman for the West Philippine Sea, Manilas name for parts of the South China Sea within its jurisdiction. The results of these surveys showed that the marine ecosystem in the subject WPS features appeared lifeless, with minimal to no signs of life, Tarriela said in a statement. He said there wasvisible discoloration of the seabed that indicated deliberate activities meant to modify the natural topography of the terrain. The presence of crushed corals strongly suggests a potential act of dumping, possibly involving the same dead corals that were previously processed and cleaned before being returned to the seabed, Tarriela said. Both reefs are near the island of Palawan, the Philippines southwestern island fronting the disputed sea. Monitoring between Aug. 9 and Sept. 11 showed an average presence of about 33 Chinese maritime militia ships near the two features, Tarriela said. The swarming activities of the Chinese militia fleet and their alleged destructive fishing practices may have directly caused the degradation and destruction of the marine environment in the WPS features, he said. The South China Sea is home to about 177,000 square miles of biodiverse coral reefs, environmentalists said. There are an estimated 571 different species of coral and 3,794 different species of fish in its waters. By comparison, there are roughly 600 known types of coral and 1,500 different species of fish in the Great Barrier Reef off of the East Coast of Australia. China, which has the worlds largest fishing fleet, claims most of the South China Sea. Six other Asian governments Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam have territorial claims or maritime boundaries that overlap with Chinas claims. The Chinese Embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to BenarNews requests for comment. The foreign ministry spokeswoman in Beijing did not discuss the issue on Monday, according to a transcript of her news conference. On Saturday, Vice Adm. Alberto Carlos, the Philippine militarys western command chief, told reporters that coral reefs in Rozul Reef have been thoroughly harvested by Chinese militia ships. We noticed coral harvesting in their swarming areas. After they departed, we pinpointed the location and dispatched divers for an underwater survey. They observed that no corals remained everything was damaged, with debris scattered, Carlos said. Theres nothing left in the area, he said, adding divers claimed the coral harvest occurred recently, although the Philippine Coast Guard did not release pictures of the undamaged seabed. He said Philippine authorities had successfully driven away the Chinese militia in early July, but the militia returned the following month because it was nearly impossible to patrol the coastal area regularly. Wed like to maintain [patrol] 100%, 365 days a year. But because of the weather, limited resources our troops have to go back to port to refuel, to take some rest, he said. DFA, senators speak out On Monday, the Department of Foreign Affairs said the Philippines consistently raised the alarm over ecologically harmful activities in the EEZ. We, therefore, call on everyone concerned to act responsibly and cease all activities that can damage our precious marine environment. The well-being of millions of people who depend on the South China Sea for their livelihood is at stake, it said in a statement. Two senators, Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada and Francis Tolentino, an ally of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., issued statements speaking out against the damage. Preserving the marine environment and coral reefs in Rozul Reef and Escoda Shoal is not only a responsibility but a moral duty that we owe to future generations, Estrada said. Tolentino, meanwhile, said he is crafting the Philippine Maritime Zone Law that he envisions would be the countrys legal basis for territorial disputes. If we file a claim, damages, it should be in a tribunal recognized by UNCLOS, United Nations, he said, referring to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which governs uses of oceans and their resources. A screengrab from an undated video claims to show coral destruction in the seabeds of Rozul Reef and Escoda Shoal in the South China Sea. [Courtesy Philippine Coast Guard] Bobby Roldan, who represents the fishermens group Pamalakaya, urged Marcos to order a wider damage assessment of the area. There is a need to identify if the swarmed area was subjected to coral harvesting, clam hunting, or any military activities that destroyed its vast coral reefs, Roldan said. We urge the Marcos administration to take this matter urgently by tapping marine scientists and other experts to extensively assess the damage and its possible long-term implications to the local fishery production. Jeoffrey Maitem, Jojo Rinoza and Gerard Carreon in Manila contributed to this report. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un attends a send-off ceremony before departing the eastern Russian city of Vladivostok, Sept. 17, in this photo released by the North's official Korean Central News Agency the next day. Yonhap North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has left the Far Eastern city of Vladivostok for home after "successfully" completing a visit to Russia that will open up a "new chapter" in their bilateral relations, Pyongyang's state media reported Monday. During the six-day trip, Kim held a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday and toured a series of key military sites amid growing concern about possible military cooperation between the two countries. "Kim Jong Un, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, left Vladivostok City on September 17 after successfully completing the schedule of his official goodwill visit to the Russian Federation," the North's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said in an English dispatch. During his stay, Kim pledged to throw his full support behind Putin, saying the Russian army and people will triumph over "evil" forces, in an apparent endorsement of Russia's war in Ukraine. If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by filling out our letters form and submitting it to the newsroom. Deputy Defense Minister for Policy Heo Tae-keun, right, and Cara Allison Marshall, acting deputy assistant secretary of defense for East Asia, pose for a photo as they attend the Korea-U.S. Integrated Defense Dialogue at Seoul's defense ministry compound in central Seoul on Monday in this photo provided by the ministry. Yonhap South Korea and the United States are nearing completion to revise their joint deterrence strategy document against North Korea's military threats, Seoul's defense officials said Monday, as the allies held regular defense talks here. The two sides evaluated progress in the ongoing efforts to revise the "Tailored Deterrence Strategy" (TDS) during the biannual Korea-U.S. Integrated Defense Dialogue (KIDD) earlier in the day, officials said, with the revision set to be complete by the end of this year. The allies have been seeking to revise the key document adopted in 2013 to cope with North Korea's threats since late 2021 to better reflect evolving threats from the recalcitrant regime. "Under a shared understanding, South Korea and the U.S. aim to revise the TDS within the year," a defense official said. "There has been significant progress and we are nearing completion." In January, the two countries' defense chiefs reaffirmed efforts to complete the TDS' revision before their regular Security Consultative Meeting this year, scheduled to take place in November in Seoul. During KIDD, the two sides also agreed to enhance the alliance's combined defense architecture by jointly developing the planning and execution of conventional-nuclear integration efforts through the bilateral Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG), according to a joint statement. The NCG, designed to discuss nuclear and strategic planning issues, was established through the Washington Declaration issued by Presidents Yoon Suk Yeol and Joe Biden during their White House summit in April. Meanwhile, the U.S. side reaffirmed its "ironclad" commitment to defend South Korea, while reiterating that any nuclear attack by North Korea against the U.S. or its allies will result in the end of its regime, the statement said. The allies reaffirmed their joint goal for the "complete denuclearization of North Korea" and pledged to further strengthen the combined defense posture and capabilities to deter conflict on the peninsula, it added. They also assessed that the Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise between their militaries last month "significantly" improved their crisis management and all-out war execution capabilities, pledging to further strengthen combined exercises to stay "responsive" to the rapidly changing security environment on the Korean Peninsula, it read. In addition, they discussed efforts for trilateral security cooperation with Japan, including a plan to operationalize a system to share North Korean missile warning data in real time by the end of this year, as reaffirmed by their leaders during their three-way summit at Camp David last month. Deputy Defense Minister for Policy Heo Tae-keun led the South Korean side in the latest KIDD meeting, while Cara Allison Marshall, acting deputy assistant secretary of defense for East Asia, headed the U.S. delegation. Launched in 2011, KIDD is a comprehensive senior-level biannual defense meeting between the allies. The last session took place in Washington in April. (Yonhap) This Story in History is selected from the archives by Jeannie Maschino, The Berkshire Eagle. Stay up to date on Berkshires news with Berkshires in Brief, our free daily newsletter PITTSFIELD Rose Fiscella walked into the nurses office at Pittsfield High School on Sept. 7 and saw students crying. Temperatures inside the high school, as well as many other schools throughout the district, had become too much for her peers. Staff members said they clocked in-building temperatures as high as 104 degrees, while others shared images of crayons that had turned from perfect new cylinders into wonky melted pools of wax. Sapped from the thick heat, Fiscella said students in the nurses office were begging to go home and catch a break from the in-building conditions. The PHS senior said by the final hours of the school day, many of her classmates were absent from class having left early for cooler temperatures at home. Fiscella said a friend told her shed found another student passed out in a bathroom. The air felt very heavy, very humid, Fiscella said. For me it was like, wow there are teachers at risk, there are kids at risk. Something needs to be done. Its a sentiment echoed by Serafina McGonagle, whose 3-year-old daughter Ava started preschool at Crosby Elementary School this year. McGonagle said watching her daughter come home red-faced and with her hair plastered to her head with sweat was more than difficult. Ava is autistic and couldnt verbalize when she was feeling sick from the heat. McGonagle said if the district doesnt come up with a way to keep students cool, shell be keeping Ava home. Her health is more important than her education right now. In a note to district staff and families, Superintendent Joseph Curtis said about 160 fans were distributed throughout the districts 12 schools and that water was provided to those who needed it. Students, staff and families say they recognize the district made these efforts but also said ultimately the only reprieve came from a change in the weather. While the immediate effects of the humid days have begun to fade, members of the school community are contemplating what comes next. Staff and students alike said theyre concerned about how much more common hot days will be as climate change continues. For some the answer is simple: Keep staff and students home and out of hot buildings. For others a more involved response is in order. In the thick of the heat, families and staff began to ask district leaders about air conditioning. While portions of some of the school buildings like the libraries and some old computer labs had air conditioning, Taconic High School was the only building in the district that could claim a building-wide cooling system. Curtis told the school community that even Taconic, opened just five years ago, wasnt spared from the heat. The air conditioning system has been defunct and out of commission for at least two years thanks to broken motors and more recently a major lightning strike. District leaders are saying its time to start talking about long-term solutions to the livability of district buildings on hot and cold days alike though they caution changes might not be realized for some time. Dr. William Cameron, the chair of the Pittsfield School Committee, is hoping to launch into that conversation later this month. At the next school committee meeting on Sept. 27, Cameron said talk about the schools physical needs and long-range planning will be on the agenda. I know that if a person is very uncomfortable because its hot and humid, the main concern that person has is not being hot and uncomfortable anymore and I sympathize with that, Cameron said. I think that there are a number of issues here that we need to address, he added. This is not something that can be done by just making a snap decision and spending a lot of money on a building that may not be there in two years from now. WHY CAN'T WE HAVE AC? The superintendent said when he spoke with teachers and staff they proposed everything from full-building air conditioning systems to mini splits and window units. Curtis said no matter the level of the system, air conditioning will represent a major cost for the city and district. He said window units would likely require replacing many of the buildings large sliding windows or slot windows with a more standard window design. Ductless mini-splits would likely overload aging electrical systems in the buildings. And like a building-wide AC system, they would require a complete overhaul of the electrical work in the schools. In his letter to families, Curtis said it was regrettable that air conditioning wasnt part of the considerations made when the citys two community schools were built in the 1970s, or when renovations were made to many of the other schools in the 1990s. Now, adding air conditioning to district buildings will conservatively cost in the range of millions or even tens of millions of dollars, Curtis wrote. NO EASY FIX Brian Filiault, the director of building maintenance for the city, said Curtis' cost estimate was in the right ballpark. And adding air conditioning didn't mean a one-time fix. Take Taconic High School for example. Air conditioning was included when it was built and was brand-new when it opened in 2018. Filiault said within two to three years more than 40 motors in air conditioning units throughout the school have failed. His department is still investigating whether this is because of faulty motor designs or an issue with the power supply to the building. Fixing the issue, whatever it may be, has been complicated by supply chain issues, which make buying that many motors nearly impossible. To make matters worse, the chilling units which had been providing a low level of cooling to the school were fried several weeks ago when the high school was struck by lightning during a storm. So now fixing the one building with air conditioning will come with a hefty cost, as well. A PROBLEM FOR OUR NEXT MAYOR The superintendent said purchasing decisions such as air conditioning in schools ultimately fall to the mayor, as district buildings are city property. Mayor Linda Tyer told The Eagle that talk of adding air conditioning to all local schools never came up during her nearly eight years as mayor. Air conditioning is not something that Ive ever considered and Im certainly not going to suggest it to the incoming mayor, Tyer said. I think we had an unusual summer and we had a few hot days. I think most people managed and sometimes we just have to muddle through until the weather settles down. Tyers administration did commit to putting $3 million of the citys American Rescue Plan money to upgrading the HVAC system at Pittsfield High School. But those upgrades are focused on improving the systems ability to control heat in the school during the winter, not cool the school during the summer. WHAT COMES NEXT Cameron said its precisely because of the upcoming administration change that he thinks now is an important time to begin discussing next steps. My major concern here, in terms of timing, is that work has to begin on the city budget with a new administration and a new city council almost as soon as the next mayor is sworn in, Cameron said. Im worried whether there is enough time given to a new administration to develop the kind of plan thats needed. Cameron said along with questions of air conditioning are a whole bevy of structural problems to consider at district buildings. At PHS, Cameron called out leaking roofs and heating in school labs as other pressing factors. All the while, the district is undergoing a school restructuring study and survey to decide how many buildings and in what configuration best serves the district. He and Curtis pointed out that the results of that study may lead to some schools closing and students being reassigned to other schools. There are a lot of issues out there that need to be addressed and the public needs to be aware of how complex this is with so many things going on simultaneously, Cameron said. These are not problems that cant be solved but they need to be approached systematically. In the meantime, what happens when the next hot day rolls around? Curtis said whether staff and students will go to school or be given a half day will be a game-time decision. I would say with extreme weather events that we navigate through, we learn from and adjust practice next time, Curtis said. Thats the best we can do. Stay up to date on Berkshires news with Berkshires in Brief, our free daily newsletter LENOX William Collins knows the Lenox school district is looking for stability the new superintendent is the sixth to hold that job, including interims, since 2015. Collins, who relocated to Pittsfield from his home near Potsdam, N.Y., is in his third month on the job, dealing with multiple issues facing the 784-student pre-K-12 school district. He will earn a salary of $165,000 in his first year. The Eagle recently sat down with the new superintendent to discuss his priority list, which includes: creating a more inclusive school culture in the wake of last year's 78-page audit of bullying issues; exploring an eventual renovation or a rebuild of Lenox Memorial Middle and High School; and enforcing a robust cellphone policy at the school where high school students must place devices in a "caddy" during class and middle school students are not permitted to use cellphones for any reason. A superintendent is basically the conductor of an orchestra, Collins said. Theyre not actually playing an instrument, but theyre conducting everyone who is playing, hopefully in harmony and together. Collins, 58, had been superintendent of the Parishville-Hopkinton Central School District along New Yorks St. Lawrence River from 2017 to 2022. In Massachusetts, he was the elementary school principal in Southampton from 2004 to 2013. The following excerpts from The Eagles interview with Collins have been lightly edited for length: THE EAGLE: Could you describe the safety and security goal youve targeted in your entry plan? COLLINS: I need to look with fresh eyes at an assessment of our crisis preparedness, any safety concerns about our buildings. Were bringing in a specialist recommended by the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, and they do a thorough vulnerability assessment of everything, from cybersecurity to doors and glass. Theyll give us a prioritized assessment to make the schools safer and more secure. THE EAGLE: How are you confronting the school culture challenges identified in last years bullying study? COLLINS: Were working with Phil Fogelman (regional director of the Anti-Defamation Leagues World of Difference Institute), who did some training with the administration team and the School Committee. Our theme this year is to create brave, safe space with a sense of belonging. Students and staff are not going to be in the head space to learn if they dont feel theyre being treated well. If a student feels theyre being picked on or bullied, my hope would be that we would build a culture where the folks around wouldnt just be bystanders, theyd be upstanders. Every investigable incident would be carried through to a finding. We want a culture where this doesnt happen again. A students perception is the reality if they feel they dont belong, then they dont belong, regardless of what other people think. So, culture is huge. If a crisis happens, its our culture that will help us prevail. THE EAGLE: What is being done to enhance communication with families, students, staff and the broader community? COLLINS: Were working on a district climate survey to see how are we doing, what course corrections need to be made. Residents are being asked as taxpayers to support the schools, so we should be hearing their voices and their concerns. Were looking at trying to be more transparent, to communicate with people who do things differently than in the past. [Middle and high school Principal Jeremiah Ames] has just started a podcast. THE EAGLE: Are you holding to the informal School Committees cap on school choice (nonresident) students, which has been 40 percent districtwide? COLLINS: We are spot on this year for 40.2 percent. If we want to be able to offer a robust program with a critical mass of students in the classes, then yes. It would be a very different school if we werent talking about choice. THE EAGLE: Are you satisfied with the districts cellphone policy? COLLINS: Right now, were enforcing the existing policy with fidelity, theres no reason for cellphones in middle and high school instructional spaces. Schools are wrestling with this everywhere. Were waiting for sensible, educationally sound guidelines from Massachusetts Education Commissioner Jeffrey Riley, to see if what were doing is in line with those. THE EAGLE: How do you view the impact of artificial intelligence in the classroom? COLLINS: Just like any other tool, in and of itself, its not good or bad, its how its used. Can it be used to enhance the educational experience? Yes, there are opportunities. On the flip side, could students use it in nefarious ways? Its about how we train students to be good digital citizens, because AI is going to be part of the future regardless. Do we ignore it, no? Do we allow carte blanche? No, were somewhere in the middle, because its new for education. There are plenty of things we put our hope in that are unreliable at best and certain to fail us at worst. These include things like money, the government, world peace, and more. The only true and certain hope, in which we can have absolute confidence, is God! And this is what the Word of God says about hope Hope for the Disappointed Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us (Romans 5:5). The hope referenced in Romans 5:5 is specifically hope in God! It is only hope in God which doesnt disappoint () or more specifically, put us to shame, because it is only God who cannot fail us. The same word is used in Psalm 22:5: In you they trusted and were not disappointed. Hope in God doesnt let the believer down, explains The New American Commentary on Romans. Again, the reason is because God cannot let the believer down. He is incapable of failing us. If you are disappointed with life (or people or circumstances), put your hope in God. Trust in Him alone! Hope for Those in Need of Joy and Peace May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope (Romans 15:13). This promise that God will fill believers with all joy and peace is conditional on them believing or trusting in Him. As we trust in God, He fills us with joy and peace. If we fail to trust in Him, our trust will automatically shift to objects which can and will fail us (ourselves, others, temporal pleasures, etc.). Every day of our lives, we have a choice of whether to trust God or not. The choice to trust Him is rewarded with all joy and peace. If youre lacking joy or peace or both, try trusting God and putting your hope in Him and Him alone (Proverbs 3:5-6; Psalm 42:5). He is the God of hope, so run to Him when youre feeling hopeless. Hope for the Depressed and Despairing Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation (Psalm 42:5). Is your soul or spirit cast down or depressed? Are you in turmoil (disturbed, confused, or uncertain)? Again, hope in God is your solution! In this Psalm, David was grieving, remembering happier times. He was also being taunted by those who didnt share his faith in God (Psalm 42:3-4). Perhaps you can relate. He was sad and discouraged, but he knew that God would step in to deliver him and restore his joy. Hope in God never fails to be the answer for our souls! Hope You Can Rejoice In Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer (Romans 12:12). Imagine if you could know for sure that tomorrow you would win the lottery! Consider how you would rejoice today, even before the check was in your hand. That is the kind of hope the Bible is talking about the kind that allows for certainty in the future. Since God is infallible, or incapable of failing, we can rejoice today in our eternal life with Him. We can take every promise He has ever made to the bank. As believers in Jesus, our future is certain! Rejoice in the hope of: - Our citizenship in heaven (Philippians 3:20) - The glory of God someday being fully manifested (Romans 5:2) - Every knee someday bowing at the name of Jesus (Philippians 2:9-11) - All nations and languages being represented before the throne of Jesus (Revelation 7:9) - Eternity void of death, mourning and pain (Revelation 21:4) The list could go on and on, but the point is that if we are in Christ, we can rejoice in hope! Hope for the Weak and Weary Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint (Isaiah 40:30-31). Its not just older people who get tired and weary; we all do! We all have the potential to stumble and fall in life. But the prophet Isaiah reminded us that strength will be renewed for those who hope in the Lord. Many of us spend a great deal of time and money pursuing cures for low energy. We work out to increase strength and endurance. We drink copious amounts of caffeine and energy drinks trying to put pep back in our step. We stay hydrated, take vitamin supplements, spend time in the sunshine, and even work standing up in an attempt to be at our best physically and mentally. Some essential oils even boast the ability to boost energy. But the Bible offers a spiritual solution that trumps all physical ones hope in the Lord instead of in things that can fail. Its guaranteed to renew your strength. In fact, the Bible says that without God, we can do nothing (John 15:5). Just like the key to Samsons strength was the length of his hair, our strength depends on our hope in God! Hope for Those Running Out of Patience For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience (Romans 8:24-25). If youve already arrived at your vacation destination, you dont have to hope you get there. Its time to enjoy the hard-earned time off! As Romans 8:24-25 puts it, we dont hope for what we already have we hope for what is yet to come. A 1987 Heinz Ketchup commercial used to say, The best things come to those who wait. Before the invention of plastic squeeze bottles, it could take ketchup some time to pour out of the old glass bottles, but it was worth the wait. A hamburger and fries with ketchup is simply better (authors opinion)! If youre spiritually short-sighted or impatient, keep looking ahead Gods promises wont fail. The best things come to those who wait (on the Lord)! Hope for the Spiritually Dead Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead (1 Peter 1:3). Before we are born again, we are spiritually dead in our trespasses and sins (Ephesians 2:1). When our mothers give birth to us, we are born physically. When we place our faith in Christ, we are born spiritually. We are transformed from death to life and born again to a living hope! Our hope in Christ is living meaning its true and it leads to life. In fact, it leads to eternal life. For those who are still spiritually dead, put your hope in Christ Jesus! Through Gods great mercy and because Christ is alive, you also can live forever. Photo credit: Unsplash/Josh Boot Kristi Walker has been a missionary in Berlin, Germany for over 19 years working with CrossWay International Baptist Church. She is the author of three books: Disappointment: A Subtle Path Away from Christ, Convinced: Applying Biblical Principles to Lifes Choices, and Big Picture: 66 Books, 1 Message. LISTEN: Being Complete in Jesus (Understanding Matthew 5:21-48) Hearing Jesus is a devotional journey through the gospels, where we explore the teachings of Jesus chapter by chapter. If you're seeking to live a life that reflects God's, this podcast is for you. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Salem Web Network and Salem Media Group. WATCH: 10 Sins Christians Downplay (and Why They're So Destructive) Stock Footage & Music Courtesy of Soundstripe.com Thumbnail by Getty Images BillOReilly.com is not available in this country. We apologize for any inconvenience. A researcher conducts testing on levels of radioactive materials in seafood products at the Health and Environment Research Institute in Seoul, Aug. 24. Yonhap Korea will strengthen emergency seawater radiation tests by adding more coastal spots to ease public concerns about Japan's release of contaminated water from its crippled Fukushima nuclear power plant into the ocean, Seoul's oceans minister has said. In July, Korea began emergency radiation tests on samples from a total of 75 coastal locations in the east, west and south of Korea, as well as the waters off the southern island of Jeju, about a month ahead of Japan's release of "treated" radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant, which was crippled by a massive 2011 earthquake and tsunami, into the sea. "We chose the spots, as they are expected to have the released waters first given the sea current. We will add more locations to the list, particularly in the East Sea, to further ensure safety," Oceans Minister Cho Seung-hwan told reporters on Thursday during his visit to a test spot off the southern port city of Busan. In addition to the 75 spots in territorial waters, Korea has been carrying out radiation tests on 33 points from more distant areas, and it plans to raise the number of testing spots to nearly 250 next year, he added. "We will maintain the emergency testing system until the people are no longer worried about the issue and say no more tests are required," Cho said. All the samples have met the safety standards so far, and no radiation has been detected in domestic seafood or imported marine products, the minister added. Officials work to collect samples of seawater in waters near Busan, Sept. 18, to measure the radiation levels of the water amid public concern about Japan's release of radioactive water from the Fukushima power plant into the ocean. Yonhap Leading TB expert and eminent research scientist, Professor Kogie Naidoo, has been elected as a Fellow of the prestigious Royal Society in South Africa (RSSAf) for her seminal research over three decades in TB-HIV co-infection and multidrug-resistant TB. Source: Professor Kogie Naidoo has been elected as a Fellow of the prestigious Royal Society in South Africa (RSSAf). Naidoo is among South Africas highly accomplished medical scientists playing a leading role in the research of tuberculosis, the leading cause of death in people living with HIV (PLWH), and has made significant contributions to the global understanding on TB-HIV treatment integration. The Royal Society of South Africa, made the announcement, following rigorous consideration by the society's adjudication committee, and approval by the council and current RSSAf Fellows. Naidoo who is the deputy director and leads the HIV-TB treatment programme at the Centre for the Aids Programme of South Africa (Caprisa) said she was honoured and deeply humbled by the recognition. My passion is to save lives through medical research; and change the lives of vulnerable, marginalised populations that are most affected by tuberculosis, multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, and HIV. Born in Durban, Naidoo obtained her MBChB and PhD at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where she is an honorary associate professor in the College of Health Sciences. She was among the first to implement public antiretroviral therapy services for people living with HIV over 25 years ago. Together with her colleagues, her research showed that starting antiretroviral treatment at the same time as tuberculosis treatment resulted in 56% lower death rates, saving lives of patients with HIV-TB co-infection. This work led to the WHO advice that co-treatment would now be the standard-of-care for people living with both HIV and TB. Her research has shaped the development of international clinical guidelines and algorithms used in the management of TB-HIV co-infection, said Salim Abdool Karim, director of Caprisa. She leads several Caprisa studies across multiple research sites aimed at optimising innovative treatment strategies to further reduce deaths in patients co-infected with TB-HIV and in HIV patients with drug-resistant TB. The Nat Nakasa Award for Media Integrity was presented to the news agency GroundUp's journalists, Daniel Steyn and Marecia Damons for their Thabo Bester escape story. The Nat Nakasa Awards recognise a special element in journalism courage, fearlessness, and an unyielding commitment to serving the people of South Africa despite insurmountable obstacles. Courage and dedication The award for the Nat Nakasa Award for Community Media went to Anton van Zyl, the publisher of the Limpopo Mirror and the Zoutpansberger. Sbu Ngalwa, Sanef chairperson expressed his delight: Your courage and dedication inspire us all. Courage and bravery are not easy to come by. This year, our distinguished panel of judges has chosen to honour individuals whose work embodies these principles. These awards stand as a testament to the unwavering dedication of journalists who go above and beyond in their pursuit of truth, even in the face of daunting challenges, he says. Sanef was honoured to have Justice Zukisa Tshiqi of the Constitutional Court, a member of the South African Women Judges Association, also involved in various mentorship programs, as its keynote speaker. Judge Tshiqi said: The Constitutional Court has recognised that the work done by the journalists is very crucial in our democracy journalists contribute in ensuring that there is transparency and accountability in the exercise of public and private power. The award's sponsor, Gaffar Hassam, group executive Corporate Affairs, SanlamAllianz, noted, "Sanlams partnership with Sanef is on its 8th year and continues to grow in recognition of Sanlams commitment to media freedom." Nats sense of justice was so strong that in his pursuit of truth, he chose exile from his native land, travelling to New York on a Niemann Fellowship, without a passport. Just an exit permit. An exit permit from his country of birth meant he was banished and unable to return home and we will continue to honour his legacy, he told the audience. In their citation Anton van Zyl, the judges remarked, "It is very difficult to operate in the space of community media. There is not that much money to make because advertisers focus on commercial media to reach out to consumers. The challenges remain despite the government having made promises that part of its advertising should go to community media. When a journalist like Anton van Zyl, who is the publisher of the Limpopo Mirror and the Zoutpansberger, continues to make a difference in this space, we need to commend them for the good work." Those who have worked closely with Van Zyl attest to his generosity in sharing his extensive knowledge with other small community-based publishers. He has been a driving force in the Association of Independent Publisher's sustainability committee. Social justice The judges citation of Daniel Steyn and Marecia Damons reads: "When the Thabo Bester story broke, it was unbelievable. We congratulate GroundUp's efforts not to give up on the suspicions that Bester was not dead but living large after escaping from jail. He faked his death. The GroundUp stories were so accurate in reflecting the difference that media can make in life. The story touched on bravery as well as social justice. Daniel Steyn and Marecia Damons rocked the boat of corruption that happened at Mangaung Correctional Centre, which involved senior officials managing the prison. Since the breaking of the story, the government arrested several officials at the centre for assisting Bester to escape. His girlfriend, Dr. Nandipha Magudumane, (allegedly) assisted him to fake his death and escape from jail. They skipped the country, arrested in Tanzania, and brought back to South Africa and now stand trial. We need to applaud Daniel Steyn and Marecia Damons for the sterling work of exposing this prison corruption without fear or favour. Ngalwa also presented their in-house Stephen Wrottesley Award for honouring dedicated members to community media subcommittee chairperson Dunisani Ntsanwisi. This award is bestowed on a Sanef member who shows commitment, and passion to Sanef. He was awarded for playing a key and definitive role in Sanefs Community Media Digitisation project, for always putting the issues and interests of community media on the agenda; playing a key role in the inaugural Sanef Indigenous Languages Seminar and ensuring that the Association of Independent Publishers continues to be an active and relevant organisation. Bad data does not only produce bad outcomes. It can also help to suppress sections of society, for instance vulnerable women and minorities. This is the argument of my new book on the relationship between various forms of racism and sexism and artificial intelligence (AI). The problem is acute. Algorithms generally need to be exposed to data often taken from the internet in order to improve at whatever they do, such as screening job applications, or underwriting mortgages. But the training data often contains many of the biases that exist in the real world. For example, algorithms could learn that most people in a particular job role are male and therefore favour men in job applications. Our data is polluted by a set of myths from the age of enlightenment, including biases that lead to discrimination based on gender and sexual identity. Judging from the history in societies where racism has played a role in establishing the social and political order, extending privileges to white males - in Europe, North America and Australia, for instance - it is simple science to assume that residues of racist discrimination feed into our technology. In my research for the book, I have documented some prominent examples. Face recognition software more commonly misidentified black and Asian minorities, leading to false arrests in the US and elsewhere. Software used in the criminal justice system has predicted that black offenders would have higher recidivism rates than they did. There have been false healthcare decisions. A study found that of the black and white patients assigned the same health risk score by an algorithm used in US health management, the black patients were often sicker than their white counterparts. This reduced the number of black patients identified for extra care by more than half. Because less money was spent on black patients who have the same level of need as white ones, the algorithm falsely concluded that black patients were healthier than equally sick white patients. Denial of mortgages for minority populations is facilitated by biased data sets. The list goes on. Machines dont lie? Such oppressive algorithms intrude on almost every area of our lives. AI is making matters worse, as it is sold to us as essentially unbiased. We are told that machines dont lie. Therefore, the logic goes, no one is to blame. This pseudo-objectiveness is central to the AI-hype created by the Silicon Valley tech giants. It is easily discernible from the speeches of Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg and Bill Gates, even if now and then they warn us about the projects that they themselves are responsible for. There are various unaddressed legal and ethical issues at stake. Who is accountable for the mistakes? Could someone claim compensation for an algorithm denying them parole based on their ethnic background in the same way that one might for a toaster that exploded in a kitchen? The opaque nature of AI technology poses serious challenges to legal systems which have been built around individual or human accountability. On a more fundamental level, basic human rights are threatened, as legal accountability is blurred by the maze of technology placed between perpetrators and the various forms of discrimination that can be conveniently blamed on the machine. Racism has always been a systematic strategy to order society. It builds, legitimises and enforces hierarchies between the haves and have nots. Ethical and legal vacuum In such a world, where its difficult to disentangle truth and reality from untruth, our privacy needs to be legally protected. The right to privacy and the concomitant ownership of our virtual and real-life data needs to be codified as a human right, not least in order to harvest the real opportunities that good AI harbours for human security. But as it stands, the innovators are far ahead of us. Technology has outpaced legislation. The ethical and legal vacuum thus created is readily exploited by criminals, as this brave new AI world is largely anarchic. Blindfolded by the mistakes of the past, we have entered a wild west without any sheriffs to police the violence of the digital world thats enveloping our everyday lives. The tragedies are already happening on a daily basis. It is time to counter the ethical, political and social costs with a concerted social movement in support of legislation. The first step is to educate ourselves about what is happening right now, as our lives will never be the same. It is our responsibility to plan the course of action for this new AI future. Only in this way can a good use of AI be codified in local, national and global institutions. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Kellogg's in South Africa commemorates its 100th anniversary this year, making it a significant turning point. With its skill and knowledge in producing healthy foods that families like, Kellogg has changed the way South Africans have breakfast for the past 100 years. Image supplied Kelloggs legacy in South Africa began in 1923 when the company introduced iconic cereal brands to breakfast tables. In 1948, the company, opened its cereal manufacturing facility in Springs, Gauteng. To mark the occasion the company has launched a limited edition Kelloggs Corn Flakes 1kg box that features a unique design created by the incredibly talented illustrator Lazi Mathebula. The design reflects the essence of Kellogg's brand and the company's enduring presence in South Africa. We all have a special place in our hearts for Kellogg and memories of the first bowl of our favourite Kellogg's cereal. This limited edition pack is our unique way to invite South Africa to participate in the celebration, said Zandile Mposelwa, corporate affairs director. The company employs 358 employees in its South Africa operation. It is well on its way to reaching its 50:50 by 2025 gender equity ambition. Forty-four percent of its executive directors are females and 55% of its senior management are female. Kellogg's commitment to South Africa goes beyond the breakfast table. Our founder, W.K. Kellogg, believed that part of running a good business was doing good for society in South Africa, since launching the Better Days Promise in 2014 the company has donated over 51 million meals to communities in need. Over 34,000 children get breakfast from Kellogg's every school day to alleviate school hunger. concludes Mposelwa. Just because product recalls in the food and beverage space have been subdued during this year does not mean companies that produce or retail food products should rest on their laurels, as the current potential outbreak of listeriosis in three South African provinces is demonstrating. The discovery of high levels of listeria pathogens at abattoirs and retailers in Gauteng, Mpumalanga and the North West has prompted experts to caution South Africans to be vigilant and cook beef products properly before consumption. While it still remains to be seen how government officials and food manufacturers will deal with this outbreak, retailers should always be ready for a product recall, as it can never be predicted when a crisis will strike. This is according to Justin Naylor, MD of specialist insurer iTOO Special Risks, who says that product recalls could be expensive, disruptive and even cause irreparable reputational damage to a brand if not organised and managed properly. A product recall can have a disastrous impact on the companys reputation and the publics confidence in the affected product. If not managed and carried out properly, the entire process could be far more costly and damaging than it should be, says Naylor. Unfortunately, many retailers are simply not ready for a product recall and when it happens, people tend to panic and thats when mistakes are made. For example, many organisations instead of being open and transparent with the public try to keep a lid on things and refuse to speak to media, which can result in misinformation being published. If past product recalls have taught producers and retailers anything, it should be that those in the food and beverage space should take out food recall insurance policies in cases disaster strikes, says Naylor. iTOOs Contaminated Product Insurance Policy is designed to protect clients from incidents and losses as a result of contaminations and malicious tampering that lead to product withdrawals or recall. Our proficiency expands across a wide variety of food and beverage manufacturers, processors and retailers offering our clients access to market leading consultants and global expertise, he says, adding that iTOO offers its clients the services of a team of professional food specialists and recall consultants who will manage the entire recall process from beginning to end. By providing these expert services, we can ensure that the entire recall process is conducted effectively, while also keeping the impact on the company to a minimum and ensuring that the situation is resolved swiftly. Policyholders get access to a suite of global services and expertise that enable the rapid deployment of local capabilities, an in-depth understanding of the local food-safety regulatory environments, loss mitigation/prevention consulting and best-in-class research and analytical capabilities. Our specialist consultants will collaborate with the policyholder through each phase of a crisis, from product recall planning and prevention to post-recall consulting and recovery. We will provide a specially selected team of crisis prevention and management experts with relevant expertise to address the policyholders specific needs and challenges, says Naylor. He points out that iTOO can arrange for a consultant to develop, plan, prepare, run and provide a report for a tailored crisis scenario relevant to the specific insured site and key contamination risks related to the insurance provided. The report will detail positive observations, as well as recommendations for improvement and, where required, a score to measure performance can be included. We can also arrange for a consultant to visit an insured client site to review the process specific to product contamination and provide a report and recommendations to both the client and iTOO. The consultant will obtain details of the site process and current identified risks prior to the visit to ensure it is scoped correctly, says Naylor. In addition, he notes that iTOO can ensure that consultants review the recall and crisis management systems in place with the selected insured client. This will entail a review of all the relevant procedures and may also include meetings with the client to discuss the procedures and look at any further documentation, such as previous recalls, complaints history and site incidents. At iTOO, we understand that no matter how well managed your production lines, cold storage or retail spaces are, theres always the danger of an unforeseen outbreak or sabotage. When youre faced with a complex recall, make sure you have the best in class experts who know how to make the right calls for your business, Naylor concludes. BMi Research's latest quantification study has shown a dramatic increase in demand for bottled water, finding that packaged water demand volume grew by 14.2% in 2022 compared to 2021. The packaged water category was also valued at 17.4% higher than the value achieved in 2021. Water is a precious commodity in any society, but in South Africa the possibility of water shedding for communities is fast becoming a reality. South Africans are increasingly turning to bottled water, particularly 5L packs, to stock up on water in the event of water shedding. There are more frequent water disruptions leaving entire communities without water for days. Bottled water has naturally benefitted from this demand. These developments are unsurprising, says Jenni-Ruth Coggin, CEO of BMi Research, given that bottled water has grown year on year for several years, making it a dynamic beverage category. The research showed that bottled water continues to play a critical role in South African communities, where it has provided a consistent supply of clean, safe drinking water. More than the fashion statement it once was, bottled water has become a lifeline in areas plagued by poor quality water or at times, none at all. On average, a person can only survive for three days without water. Yet in South Africa, unclean municipal water sources, aging and damaged infrastructure, cholera outbreaks and extreme weather conditions are all jeopardising peoples access to healthy water. As a direct result of this situation, bottled water volumes have been steadily increasing, and show no signs of slowing down. During the 2022/2023 floods in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Free State and Northern Cape, residents experienced water shortages as their pipes were damaged. Unreliable public water meant that consumers had to resort to bottled water. During the floods and in the days following these events, bottled water was also supplied to affected areas as part of relief efforts. In 2022, some provinces also began to experience water shortages as dam levels dropped and Day Zero loomed, while others experienced water quality that did not pass municipal standards. In 2023, Gauteng and the surrounding areas experienced a cholera outbreak that claimed the lives of 31 people. This was as a result of unclean water supplied to residents in those regions. This past year also saw taps run dry in a number of provinces as a result of infrastructure issues and the effect of load shedding on water pumping stations. Growth in bottled water in 2022 was driven across the sector by still, sparkling, unflavoured and flavoured water, with top-end retailers and wholesalers increasing volume year on year. This indicated that all these variants had potential for growth if effectively marketed and distributed in relevant places. Value-focused brands and pack sizes remained prominent, particularly in the current economy where consumer spending was under pressure. More South Africans purchased bottled water for drinking and home use. Some major brands saw a gap in the market and launched smaller pack sizes (300-330ml) aimed at kids to encourage them to drink more water as a healthier beverage option. Overall, bottled water demand is driven by healthy beverage consumption needs, convenience and promotional activity as well as lower average pricing when compared to non-alcoholic beverage alternatives. The pursuit for healthy beverage alternatives also drives demand in the category. Promotional activity remained prominent, giving popular and line extensions the competitive edge. Given the unreliability of public water, this category is expected to grow even further. This, coupled with companies ability to market the product in attractive packaging and labels, as well as water being a healthier alternative to sugary drinks, means the category will continue to hold relevance in the market. Stiles, a pioneer in the South African tile industry, proudly announces the launch of its inaugural in-house tile brand, aptly named 'Etienne Tiles' in honour of its founder, the late Etienne Joubert and launched on Etienne's birthday, 18 September. Established in March 2000 by George local, Etienne Joubert and his son Steve Joubert, Stiles has been a symbol of quality and innovation in the tile market. This new venture pays homage to the visionary founder, who tragically passed away in May of this year, just before the official launch of the brand 'Etienne Tiles'. Etienne Joubert was an ardent admirer of South Africa's breathtaking landscapes, often embarking on adventurous motorcycle journeys to capture the nation's mountains, seas, fauna, and flora through his lens. It is this profound love for the country that inspired the design of the 'Etienne Tiles' ranges, including the recently unveiled collections: Outeniqua, Griqua, Highveld, and Silt, all of which vividly reflect the splendour of South Africa's natural beauty. Steve Joubert, Etienne's son and the current CEO of Stiles, shared his sentiments on this tribute: "My dad gave me an incredible opportunity as a young man. We built Stiles together. Having spent so much time together, I caught his vision for the tile market in South Africa and was able to run with it when he no longer could. I wanted to honour him and the legacy he built by naming Stiles' first in-house product after him. I'm so glad he got to see this dream come to life before he passed on." All current ranges of Etienne Tiles are now available in Stiles showrooms nationwide. Visit our website to explore this exquisite brand or to locate a showroom near you. Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer weaves an intricate tapestry, drawing from historical records and masterful storytelling. The film embarks on an intellectual odyssey, a profound journey into the heart of a complex figure. Image supplied A biopic of theoretical physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer, known as the "father of the atomic bomb," the film finds its roots in the 2005 biography American Prometheus by Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin. The ambition and scope of Christopher Nolans interpretation of crucial moments in Oppenheimers life are immense. Within this dense and intricate period piece, timelines tangle, revealing Oppenheimer's multifaceted story. Cillian Murphys portrayal of Oppenheimer captures a man enraptured by the boundless potential of science, only to realise too late the destructive power his creation holds. Like Prometheus giving fire to humans, he carries the weight of the bombs dropped on Japan and the knowledge that his creation might engender further devastation. Murphy excels in this role, his haunting expression and distant gaze in his piercing blue eyes becoming increasingly heart-wrenching as the film unfolds. Accompanied by Ludwig Goranssons score, these moments of guilt are both beautiful and horrifying. Oppenheimers character is meticulously unveiled, revealing the interplay between genius and torment that moulds his remarkable journey. The film commences in 1926, with a young Oppenheimer studying under physicist Patrick Blackett (James D'Arcy) at Cambridge's Cavendish Laboratory. An anxious and homesick Oppenheimer leaves a poisoned apple for Blackett, only to reclaim it. The arrival of visiting scientist Niels Bohr (Kenneth Branagh) leaves an impression, leading to Oppenheimer's pursuit of theoretical physics in Germany, where he earns his PhD and crosses paths with Werner Heisenberg (Matthias Schweighofer). Upon returning to the US, Oppenheimer teaches at UC Berkeley, joins Caltech, and encounters his future wife, Kitty Puening (Emily Blunt). His involvement with Communist Party member Jean Tatlock (Florence Pugh) adds complexity to his personal life. The progression of Nazi nuclear advancements in 1938 compels Oppenheimer to replicate their work. As WWII ensues in 1942, General Groves (Matt Damon) recruits him for the Manhattan Project. Oppenheimer forms a scientific team in Los Alamos, spurred by the Nazi threat. News of Tatlock's suicide reaches him. Post-German surrender, Oppenheimer supports using the bomb to end the Pacific war but dreads the consequences. The Trinity test triumphs, culminating in the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Oppenheimer becomes synonymous with the "father of the atomic bomb" title, yet remains haunted by the destruction it wrought. While he advocates nuclear restraint, President Truman (Gary Oldman) dismisses his concerns. Oppenheimer's opposition to the hydrogen bomb fuels Cold War tensions. In a bid to diminish his influence, former allies betray Oppenheimer. Despite defence testimonies, his security clearance is revoked. Lewis Strauss (Robert Downey Jr.) orchestrates his downfall, but a flashback exposes Oppenheimer's authentic sentiments about his role. Oppenheimer brilliantly fuses historical biopic with Nolans cinematic artistry. The cinematography encapsulates the essence of the World War 2 era, immersing the audience in a world grappling with the intricate interplay between intellect and conscience. Though the film's narrative structure is complex, it effectively portrays the nuanced layers of Oppenheimer's character. The recurring motif of resounding footfalls underscores the mounting sense of impending peril as the monumental implications of Oppenheimers scientific pursuits sharpen. Nolan is known for his gritty Batman trilogy and his complex mindbending films like Inception, Interstellar and Tenet. Oppenheimer is reminiscent of 2017s Dunkirk with the structure of 2000s Memento. It was filmed in a combination of IMAX 65 mm and 65 mm large-format film and its spectacular to look at. The ensemble cast is a testament to Nolans pull in Hollywood. When he calls every actor worth their salt answers even if its for a cameo role. Other than Cillian Murphy as the titular character, the standout roles go to Emily Blunt as Kitty, Florence Pugh as Jean Tatlock, Matt Damon as General Groves and especially Robert Downey Jr. as the vengeful and petty Lewis Strauss. Oppenheimer not only met but exceeded my expectations. It delivers a cinematic journey that intricately weaves history, storytelling, and moral introspection. Nolan's direction, coupled with Murphy's haunting portrayal, vividly brings Oppenheimer's internal conflicts to life. The fusion of intricate narrative, immersive cinematography, and standout performances elevates the film to cinematic artistry that resonates deeply. Oppenheimer serves as a poignant reminder of the intricacies of scientific advancement and the weight of moral responsibility. This masterful creation, rich in emotion and depth, stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and filmmaking at its finest. A weekend fire caused by faulty transformers at the Joburg Metro has shut down the building responsible for administering the city. Source: Supplied. Emergency services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi confirmed the 16 September fire on Monday morning, 18 September. He said there were no injuries and that it was contained in time. There is no electricity in the building. The city did not put out a communique about the fire but has announced a briefing on Tuesday (19 September). This is the second fire in the Metro building this year the previous one was in March. Read the full article by Ferial Haffajee at Daily Maverick. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a severe weather alert for damaging waves between Plettenberg Bay and Richards Bay on Monday. The damaging waves are expected to result in localised disruptions to beachfront activities, localised disruption of small harbours and/or ports, difficulty in navigation of vessels at sea, and small vessels being at risk of taking on water and capsizing, SAWS said. On Sunday, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) warned residents along the Western Cape's coastal areas to exercise caution, as a high spring tide was expected. It caused waves to wash over railings, washing into homes and sweeping cars away along the coast. According to the NSRI, an elderly woman, 93, died after being swept off her feet in the Wilderness area of the Southern Cape. President Yoon Suk Yeol, right, and first lady Kim Keon Hee bid farewell after boarding the presidential plane to leave for the U.N. General Assembly in New York, at Seoul Air Base, just south of the capital, Sept. 18. Yonhap President Yoon Suk Yeol embarked on a five-day visit to New York on Monday to attend the U.N. General Assembly and meet with world leaders amid signs of growing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia. During the annual U.N. gathering, Yoon is also set to hold a flurry of bilateral summits on the sidelines in a last-minute push to win support for South Korea's bid to host the 2030 World Expo in its southeastern port city of Busan. "President Yoon plans to widely make known our determination to carry out our role and responsibility befitting the status of the Republic of Korea in terms of solving various challenges facing the international community," Principal Deputy National Security Adviser Kim Tae-hyo told reporters on Thursday. "President Yoon will pledge that the Republic of Korea will fulfill its responsible role in continuing to expand official development assistance to help reduce the global development gap, supporting the efforts of climate-vulnerable nations to reduce carbon emissions and transition to clean energy, and allowing the world's citizens to enjoy the benefits of digital technologies," Kim said. A highlight of Yoon's trip will be his address to the U.N. General Assembly on Wednesday. The speech will come as last week's rare summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin has led to concern about potential military deals between the two isolated states. "In the U.N. General Assembly address, we expect that there will be an appropriate analysis and message about the recent military exchanges between North Korea and Russia," a senior presidential official told reporters Thursday. "Along with individual measures we can take on our own, we're also discussing multilateral measures we can take together with the United States, Japan and other key friends," the official added. In an interview with the Associated Press published Sunday, Yoon said military cooperation between North Korea and Russia is "illegal and unjust as it contravenes U.N. Security Council resolutions and various other international sanctions." The international community "will unite more tightly in response to such a move," he said. President Yoon Suk Yeol delivers an address during the U.N. General Assembly in New York, Sept. 20, 2022. Yonhap Film and Publication Board (FPB) chief executive officer, Dr Mashilo Boloka, has been appointed as vice chairperson of the Global Online Safety Regulators Network (GORSN). Image source: Jakub Jirsak 123RF.com Bolokas appointment as vice chairperson, was made by the Global Online Safety Network during a meeting hosted by the UKs Communications Regulator, the Office of Communications (OFCOM) in London. His one-year term will run until 2024. Welcoming the new leadership, outgoing chairperson and eSafety Commissioners Julie Inman-Grant, said they are happy to hand over the reins to OFCOM under the capable stewardship of Gill Whitehead. The 2024 vice chair will be the incredibly energetic Mashilo Boloka, CEO of the South African Film and Publication Board. We will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder in working together to work towards creating a safer, more positive online world, Inman-Grant said. Bolokas appointment follows the FPBs acceptance as a member of the GORSN earlier in July 2023. The network was established in November 2022 to promote online safety and share information and good practice around online regulation. Dr Boloka said the network represents a collaborative initiative to fight the borderless online harms, pursue harmonisation to avoid fragmentation of online safety legislation and coordinated online safety measures. As the Film and Publication Board of South Africa, we are excited to be a member of this Network. As the only representative on the African continent, we will ensure that voice of other regulators on the continent and the other developing worlds is heard. We will persuade other regulators on the continent to join the Network so that they can seize the opportunities it provides, information sharing on experiences and best practices so that we can together promote a safer online environment and fight online harms wherever it exists, Boloka said. During the London meeting, the Network discussed the need to promote regulatory coherence and underscored the importance of collaboration on shared issues, including industry engagement and new and emerging technology. It also agreed on creation of a technology and public education working group. The Bhaktivedanta Book Trust Africa (BBT) hosted the 10th Annual Bhaktivedanta Swami Lecture, presented in honour of His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada (1896-1977), the founder of the BBT. His literary contribution continues to be appreciated by global audiences for its Vedic commentary, on national priorities like education and leadership. This year's Bhaktivedanta Swami Lecture focuses on AI, humanity and God. AI has become urgent and developing at an exponential rate. Some experts believe that by 2050, people may worship a super AI God. While AI surpasses human intelligence and has excelled in various sectors, it remains bereft of heartfelt emotions, the softness of compassion and love. The keynote speaker is His Holiness Svayam Bhagavan Keshava Swami. Keshava Swami, is a spiritual author and teacher who accepted vows of renunciation in 2022. He shares from a Vedic viewpoint the necessity of higher spiritual consciousness feeding machine super intelligence for the benefit of humanity. While AI increases intelligence capacity, for humanity to remain at the epicentre it requires the awakening of the soul to utilise that higher spiritual intelligence for social upliftment through technology. Science makes things better, but spirituality makes people better. Joining the conversation is guest speaker chief operating officer of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, Itumeleng Monale. Itumeleng, was recognised as an IBM Global Women in AI Honouree in 2020 and named one of the top one hundred Global Data Visionaries of 2020. Itumeleng shares insights on having humanitys best intentions at heart that is required for AI to be a useful tool. She also delves into the risks because AI is a human generated construct and human beings are flawed, with intrinsic bias. There is a need for enriched experiences. We need to make sure the balance on how AI and technology is developed over time as a growing body of knowledge that is fed by interested people who have humanity's best interest at heart. Most of the time the type of people in industry feeding the knowledge base only have commercial outcomes as an objective. That which makes us well, is community, connection, and as basic as human touch that a robot cannot give. The conversation is facilitated by Nanda Padayachee, associate director at Boston Consulting Group. Nanda has more than 15 years of experience in data, AI, digital, and innovation. One of the questions Nanda poses is, Often we see the role of technology as it becomes more pervasive and expansive, we start to become more isolated. The essence of spirituality is that shared connection, how can technology be adapted to deepen connection and relationships as opposed to diverting our attention? About the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust: The Bhaktivedanta Book Trust (BBT) was founded in 1972 by His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. He has authored and translated more than 70 volumes of books based on timeless Vedic wisdom, which were previously locked in the Sanskrit language into English. Today, his books are the preferred authoritative academic texts in universities across the globe. The BBT is the worlds largest publisher of ancient and classic Vaishnava (Eastern) texts, epics, and contemporary works on the philosophy, theology, and culture of Bhakti Yoga. The BBT has published books in more than 90 languages, which include titles in English, Swahili, isiZulu, isiXhosa, and Setswana and has titles in production in various other African languages in Africa. Included are the Preservation of African Languages initiatives and Promotion of cross-cultural and multi-national integration. The lecture can be streamed now on the @BBTAfrica YouTube Page. We look forward to your comments. The BBT Africa Team, az.oc.acirfatbb@ofni www.bbtafrica.co.za #BSL2023 #BhaktivedantaSwamiLecture2023 #AIHumanityGod #ArificialIntelligence #SpiritualIntelligence Steaming lecture links https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xOjrp8wnx0c https://www.facebook.com/BBTAfrica Omnisient was 'Highly Commended' for the transformative impact its privacy-preserving data collaboration platform is having on loyalty and retention programmes in South Africa. Omnisient, the privacy-preserving data collaboration platform company protecting the privacy of over 150 million consumers, was 'Highly Commended' in the category for 'Best Data Agency/Vendor of the Year' at the South African Loyalty Awards for the transformative impact its platform is having on loyalty and retention programmes. Building on last years win as 'Best Loyalty Data Agency/Vendor of the Year', Omnisients platform has continued to protect consumer privacy while enabling brands to draw insights on the collective consumer data across partnering brands. The platform provides cryptography, advanced analytics and AI functionality to enable over 80 enterprise brands to protect consumer privacy while using their collective consumer data to improve their understanding of consumers and to predict behaviour. Because data is always anonymous and is never exchanged, brands can ensure compliance with privacy regulations and have the peace of mind that consumer privacy and company IP are never at risk. Case studies from this years submission demonstrated major South African brands utilising the Omnisient platform for: The rapid identification of lucrative rewards partnerships, Enhanced personalisation and improved customer experience, Creating new revenue generation opportunities, and Converting data liability into data assets. Anton Grutzmacher, co-founder of Omnisient Anton Grutzmacher, co-founder of Omnisient was present to collect the award and shared: Its an honour to once again be recognised among stalwarts in the Loyalty and Rewards sector. Our vision remains consistent: safeguarding consumer privacy while enabling businesses to tap into the collective knowledge of their consumers across brands to make a positive impact on businesses, individuals, and society. Ursula Kuni, South African Loyalty Awards judge and chief data, analytics, digital officer at Hollard Insurance had the following to say about Omnisients entry: The platform has seen great adoption by big retailers, banks and insurers in South Africa and abroad, and its potential to help drive financial inclusion is worth highlighting. Amanda Cromhout, founder of Truth Loyalty & CRM and the cornerstone of the SA Loyalty Awards, remarked: The 2023 South African Loyalty Awards has highlighted once again that the South African loyalty industry is thriving in world-class innovation and excellence, driving loyalty performance comparable if not exceeding global standards! This was the fifth year of operation of the South African Loyalty Awards, which was initiated by Truth, a leading international loyalty and CRM consultancy, based in South Africa. For a full list of winners in their categories, read the South African Loyalty Awards 'Winners Report'. South African National Parks (SanParks) has opened its 18th annual South African National Parks Week in Pretoria. The week, opened by the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Environmental Affairs, Barbara Creecy ends on 24 September 2023. Source: Morne Carsten via SanParks - Marakele National Park SanParks chief executive officer, Hapiloe Sello says SA National Parks week is aimed at linking the South African National Parks system to communities and showcasing the best of our countrys national parks. During the week all South African citizens are allowed to enter national parks for free for a day visit. "On Sunday, the SanParks board chairperson, Miss Pam Yako and I will host media and communities in the Kruger National Park in celebration of the start of SanParks Week." Sello said that the role of communities in our efforts to protect our parks is of vital importance. "Our communities should be at the forefront of conservation and SA National Parks Week gives these communities an opportunity to freely access parks they might not have been exposed to, and to gain a greater understanding of the importance of conservation." SanParks Vision 2040 SanParks recently embarked on an ambitious project, the SanParks Vision 2040, which, in part, is about cultivating a collective sense of community, healing, and inspiration that resonates with all South Africans. SanParks Vision 2040 is about looking to the future and reimaging the way we do conservation. "We want all citizens, particularly those living adjacent to national parks, to become champions for conservation and biodiversity and one of the ways do this is to offer free access to and exposure to the importance of national parks." "This week is also an opportunity to showcase national parks as affordable local holiday destinations that offer unique experiences for families and individuals from all backgrounds, cultures, lifestyles and communities to enjoy." Total Energies Marketing South Africas general manager for strategy, corporate affairs, marketing and communications, Sunil Gandhi says: "Since the inception of this remarkable partnership with SANParks, we have made monumental strides in protecting South Africas pristine landscapes and wildlife. "This aligns with our ambition to be a major player in the energy transition and get to net zero by 2050. Our commitment to environmental conservation is unwavering thus, having been a partner with SanParks for more than 64 years is only a true testament to our shared vision of safeguarding our plant treasures for generations to come "We are particularly proud of the annual SanParks Week that allows free entry for SA citizens and gives everyone the opportunity to experience National Parks first-hand." Natural and cultural heritage Sipho Silinda, CEO, FNB Public Sector Banking says: "The 18th annual SANParks Week is a remarkable milestone in our sustained commitment to enable South African citizens to explore our countrys natural heritage, particularly as we also celebrate Heritage Day this month and as a nation embrace all cultures. "Our tourism industry continues to be fundamental to the growth of our economy. We urge all our communities and individuals to support our national and cultural heritage and experience South African National Parks." SanParks started this campaign in 2006 to encourage all South Africans, especially those from communities around the parks, to share in what SanParks believes to be the pride and joy of all South Africans and the world. "The survival of the national parks system and our natural and cultural heritage truly lies in the people of South Africa, and SA National Parks Week provides us with the opportunity to establish a real multi-cultural visitor profile and assist in developing a deep sense of national pride. Come and experience our parks and enjoy SA National Week as it is for all South Africans. This is your heritage, explore it, learn from it and love it," concludes Sello. Park-specific dates can be found on SanParks website. The free access to the parks does not include accommodation or any commercial activities in the park. It's a question we're often asked: which bakkie leads the double-cab sales race in South Africa? Well, we finally have the answer. Check out year-to-date sales for Mzansi's most popular double cabs... Month in and month out, we collate a list of South Africas most-popular bakkies, based on sales figures that incorporate all three body styles. But theres a question thats often left unanswered: which is the best-selling double-cab bakkie in the land? Yes, you asked and we listened. Since Naamsas monthly sales figures unfortunately dont include a breakdown of the available bakkie body styles (single-, extended- and double-cab shapes), weve turned to our studious friends over at Lightstone Auto for a little help to identify Mzansis best-selling double-cab bakkies over the opening eight months of 2023. Year to date, the Ford Ranger is SAs best-selling double-cab bakkie. Before we dive into those figures, lets take a step back and consider what the overall table including all body styles looks like year to date. So far in 2023, according to Naamsa figures, the Prospecton-built Toyota Hilux is leading the bakkie pack with 25,092 units, followed by the Silverton-made Ford Ranger (16,182 units) and the Struandale-produced Isuzu D-Max (13,174 units). Lightstone Autos figures, however, show the Ford Ranger is ruling the double-cab bakkie sales roost in South Africa so far this year, with 13,892 units (1,884 of which came in August 2023) registered or fascinatingly about 85% of its total. Note this figure includes the flagship Raptor derivative, which is imported from Thailand rather than built at Silverton alongside all other variants of the Ranger. After the 1st 8 months of 2023, the Hilux is 1 601 units behind the Ranger in the double-cab sales race. The Toyota Hilux thus currently finds itself in second place on the list of SAs best-selling double-cab bakkies, with 12,291 units or around 49% of its total sold around the country over the opening eight months of the year (including 1,684 units in August 2023). For the record, that puts the Japanese stalwart 1 601 units off the pace when only four-door derivatives are considered. The final spot on the double-cab bakkie podium goes to the Isuzu D-Max, with 6,125 units sold, year to date (so, 6,166 units behind the second-placed Hilux). From what we understand, this figure which represents approximately 46% of total D-Max sales this year includes 4-door versions of both the current-generation D-Max as well as the prolonged-lifecycle Gen 6 line-up. Isuzus D-Max completes the double-cab bakkie sales podium, year to date. According to Lightstone Auto, double-cab derivatives of all other bakkies available in this body style total 11,609 units, year to date. SAs best-selling double-cab bakkies YTD (August 2023) Ford Ranger 13,892 units Toyota Hilux 12,291 units Isuzu D-Max 6,125 units This article was originally published on Cars.co.za... Sandton, historically known as Africa's richest square mile, is transitioning from bustling business district to luxury residential space as developers continue to buy the oversupply of office space. Source: Supplied. There is appetite from developers for redevelopment of office space in Sandton from commercial to either residential or mixed use, said Jayson-Lee Collins, sales manager and commercial property broker at Broll Auctions and Sales. As hybrid work models flourish, the auction house has sold numerous commercial properties in the Sandown area, with the two most recent sales being the former Primedia offices at 5 Gwen Lane, at R7,000 per m, and 88 Grayston at R5,000 per m. According to Lightstone, Sandtons sectional scheme registrations declined from 317 in 2021 to 76 thus far in 2023, while freehold schemes declined from 54 to 25 in the same period. The decrease in registrations is directly proportional to buyers appetite. Due to the constant interest-rate hikes and oversupply of commercial office space in the Sandown area, buyers need to reimagine old spaces with new ideas, Collins said. Broll Auctions and Sales has two unique investments going to market in the next two months, a prime four-star green-rated commercial building, with one of the best addresses in Sandton; and 51 executive apartments at the Villa Via complex which will be sold as freehold. The sizeable apartments, which are two-bed, two bath, are ideally suited for a hospitality group, retirement village and or investors looking to hold strong income and asset value, Collins said. These properties are surrounded by some of South Africas top blue-chip companies, and amenities in the immediate vicinity include The Marc, Sandton City Shopping Centre, the Sandton Gautrain Station and various hotels, said Norman Raad, chief executive officer of Broll Auction and Sales. Prices have dropped due to an abundance of available stock, but Sandton remains one of Johannesburgs strongest commercial hubs. Buyers have been less active due to unrealistic pricing by sellers coupled with interest-rate hikes, but when the prices are right, sales are happening. Marketers in South Africa are being urged to tap into the country's vibrant culture to elevate their brands to global prominence. This call to action was emphasised by Ciko Thomas, Nedbank's group managing executive for retail and business at the Nedbank IMC Conference held last Friday. "Marketers in South Africa need to make sure they take advantage of its rich culture to put their brands on the map." Authentic spirit "I have been to places like Paris in France, and there is a certain sense of French-ness every time you walk past a cafe; it's Parisian. You go to Tokyo, and there is a sense of Japanese-ness. "These are places that are fiercely protective of their identity. You go to Lagos, Abuja, or Kano, and you feel a sense of Nigeria-ness. You will feel the spirit of Nigeria. They successfully commercialised the providence of the places they come from and took great brands to the world," notes Thomas. He said brands and products like Ferrari, Prada, Parmesan cheese, Chianti, and gelato are noticeably Italian. When you are in France and have a croissant, you feel a sense of joie de vivre. They carry French brands like Veuve and Louis Vuitton with pride. Adds Thomas: "We forget the greatness that lies in the magic of this place we call SA. If I look at someone like Laduma Ngoxkolo, he understands storytelling to create an exportable brand story across the world. He is someone who has tapped into the double helix structure of what makes SA and Africa great and is taking it to the world." Taking it worldwide He also praised brand ambasadors like Natasha Sideris, founder of Tashas, and Trevor Noah for successfully taking their brands worldwide. South Africa has created a new music genre that has spread like wildfire to the rest of the world. Amapiano has become an integral part of South African music culture, and its authenticity is deeply rooted in the country's music history and its ability to capture the essence of contemporary South African urban life. It continues to evolve and shape the music landscape in the country, making it an authentic and significant genre in South African music history. Amapiano has taken all over the world. There are people who are becoming global sensations because they tap into the zeitgeist "My sense is that as marketers, we must not forget the responsibility and the role that we can play to create vanguard African brands, that fiercely protect our identity and African-ness, that are able to tap into this wonderful intersection between what we are about as South Africans. This is a rich asset base of brands that we are custodians of and we must understand the pot of gold that lies at the head of that intersection," Thomas says. Thomas also revealed Nedbank's commitment to being custodians of financial wellness. "Financial wellness that is not about self-enrichment or self-empowerment. But that is of the good of others and is the spirit of ubuntu, which is the providence of our African identity and that is what we have decided to own and export to the rest of Africa and the rest of the world," he concluded. Advertising that delivers is advertising that creates customers. It achieves this by giving customers a good reason to buy a product or service. (image: Danette Breitenbach). Nick Law, creative chairperson of Accenture Song, was in South Africa to present the global keynote at the Nedbank IMC Conference In the end, what we do as marketers is create customers. This is also what businesses do; you dont have a business without a customer, says Nick Law, creative chairperson of Accenture Song. Law was in South Africa to present the global keynote at the Nedbank IMC Conference, which took place on Friday 15 September at the Urban Brew Studios in Randburg, Johannesburg. Connecting customer experience with business impact The problem he explains is that there is a cohort of people, who are very concerned about the business, its operations and efficiencies, but none of them are near the customer. Then there are people who think about customers all the time but are not connected to the business. So, he says, you can see the problem, Some businesses concentrate on business operations and do not understand how to create amazing customer experiences. And then there are creative agencies you see them at Cannes - that create amazing customer experience but have no attachment to the business. While it might seem obvious he adds, We need to connect customer experience with business impact. At the top are brand makers who make beautiful things that no one sees. At the bottom are performance marketers who make really ugly things that everyone sees The problem lies in the middle He believes marketing has lost its way because we have become an industry shaped like an hourglass. At the top are brand makers who make beautiful things that no one sees. At the bottom are performance marketers who make really ugly things that everyone sees. One is trying to make you feel something and the other to act on something, but neither is informed by what customers want which is the why. And the why lies in the middle, called mid-funnel, is what helps people to understand." While companies are built in the shape of an hourglass, customers are shaped like onions. They are making all their decisions in the middle, while we are making decisions according to third party aggregators." Therefore, he says, we need to start from the middle and think about how we can get people to understand the value of these products, and services. Then we can inflect that up the funnel (to beautiful storytelling) and down (to more transactional stuff) and thats when a brand delivers something that creates customers. As opposed to someone who says that brand is cool, but what do they sell, or I wish that brand would stop chasing me around the web just because I hovered on something on Instagram for two seconds too long. The middle is very simple Looking specifically at marketing and advertising, he says we are losing brand longevity because we are not helping customers understand the value of the product. This is because we have vacated that place at the top of the funnel by doing big metaphorical brand stories which are meant to make you feel something, while at the bottom of the funnel, we are chasing you around the internet like a mad mathematician. Neither of these is informed unless you figure out the middle. The middle is very simple, it is not even purpose, it is how your product manifests that purpose. A company has to stand for something and that is to deliver a product that people want - thats it. He adds that it is not enough to stand for something abstract. Unfortunately the legacy of above-the-line (ATL) agencies, which comes out of a media environment before there was any interface where the best you could hope for was for someone to feel something about your brand because they could not interact with it, continues, he explains. Then there is the opposite extreme. To the other end, more recently the attempt to do performance marketing, with the illusion of precise tracking and reaching the right person at the right time, has been devoid of any craft or concept. As such, in the long term, your brand can suffer from what is considered performance marketing. Not designed to be simple It is not an easy ask, he admits, saying that no brand is getting it completely right. Thats because everything changes so quickly but also because everything is connected. Fifty years ago, I was a consumer, I lived over there and interacted there. Today everything has converged into this one place (the mobile). Also, he adds, a lot of what we interact with now is not designed to be simple - and we keep adding layers through technologies which have accelerated complexity. These technologies are great, but not when we transfer our expertise onto the customer. We assume just because we have figured it out, they have as well. You need to strip away the complexity - think Apple, AirBnB and Google to some extent. If there is too much complexity, people just switch off. German Ambassador-designate to Korea Georg Schmidt, left, speaks during a press day event in Seoul to celebrate the 140th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Korea and Germany, Sept. 18. Yonhap German Ambassador-designate to Korea Georg Schmidt said Monday that Korea is an "important" Indo-Pacific partner for Germany as the two countries mark the 140th anniversary of relations this year. Schmidt made the remarks during a press day event co-hosted by the German Embassy, the Korean-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and other organizations ahead of the anniversary that marks the 1883 signing of a treaty of commerce, friendship and navigation. Amid an intensifying rivalry between the United States and China, the envoy said both Korea and the Germany are deeply linked to China in economic terms while also maintaining close cooperation with Washington. He also said Korea shows striking similarities with Germany in its history of division. During the event, a memorandum of understanding was signed to boost youth exchange programs, including the visit of Korean students to Germany next year. (Yonhap) Borsa Italiana non ha responsabilita per il contenuto del sito a cui sta per accedere e non ha responsabilita per le informazioni contenute. Accedendo a questo link, Borsa Italiana non intende sollecitare acquisti o offerte in alcun paese da parte di nessuno. Sarai automaticamente diretto al link in cinque secondi. Participants of the Incheon Security Conference hold a discussion in Songdo, Incheon, Monday. Korea Times photo by Lee Hyo-jin Leading scholars gather at inaugural Incheon Security Conference By Lee Hyo-jin INCHEON Chances for North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to return to dialogue with the United States have become even lower now that he has gained new leverage through his recent summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to Victor Cha, a U.S. analyst at Asian Affairs. "Just when you thought it couldn't get any worse with North Korea, Putin and Kim joined an alliance. It's not new in the sense that there has always been cooperation, but there are few things that are new," said Cha, a professor at Georgetown University and Korea Chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a Washington D.C.-based think tank. "Kim now has leverage. Historically, North Korea has always been a supplicant, seeking patronage aid from the Soviet Union or Russia. But now they are going to provide arms and munitions." His remarks were made during the inaugural Incheon Security Conference held in Songdo, Incheon. The event gathered scholars from Korea and abroad for discussions on pending global issues including the war in Ukraine, U.S.-China relations and the South Korea-U.S. alliance amid North Korea's nuclear threats. Cha went on to say that the Kim-Putin summit has also reduced Kim's need to talk to the U.S. He explained that part of the reason for the North Korea-Russia summit was the "spectacular failure" of the Trump-Kim summit in Hanoi in 2019, which was an embarrassment for the North Korean leader. "The only way he can save his face was to do something big like the summit with Putin, with the nation coming out of the (COVID-19) lockdown," he said. The recent burgeoning military cooperation between North Korea and Russia could involve Moscow's support for Pyongyang's spy satellites, nuclear-powered submarines and intercontinental ballistic missiles, Cha said, stressing that coordinated policies among like-minded countries will become more crucial to address these issues. Terence Roehrig, a professor of national security affairs at U.S. Naval War College, said although the immediate priority in containing North Korea's nuclear threats is the extended deterrence offered by the U.S., in the long term, there should be discussions about ways to reduce the tensions level on the Korean Peninsula. With the specter of a new Cold War looming in the East Asian region with South Korea and the United States on one side and North Korea, China and Russia on the other experts stressed the importance for South Korea to build stronger alliances with like-minded countries to maintain peace in the region. "We have not reached the stage of a cold war between the U.S. and its partners on the one hand and China on the other hand, but we are getting into a situation in which relations are certainly colder between the two sides," said Ramon Pacheco Pardo, a professor of international relations at King's College London. He viewed that the prolonged war in Ukraine has spurred stronger partnerships between South Korea and European nations particularly in the realms of defense and cyber security. "We are like-minded partners. We have no ideological differences with Korea in terms of issues like democracies, the rule of law and human rights. And these issues really matter for Europe when we see an authoritarian regime like Russia invading Ukraine," Pacheco Pardo said. Regarding the Ukraine war, Patrick Cronin, the Asia-Pacific security chair at the Hudson Institute, said, "When autocrats invade their neighbors because they feel entitled and since they can do so, global orders are threatened." He added that the U.S. and South Korea have an obligation to deter further escalation and to prevent the invasion from succeeding. Participants of the Incheon Security Conference engage in a discussion session at the Incheon Security Conference under the theme of "The Ukraine war and U.S.-China relations" at Oakwood Premier hotel in Songdo, Incheon, Monday. Yonhap ADeko Chairman Kim Hyo-joon, front row fourth from left, poses with German Ambassador-designate to Korea Georg Schmidt, front row third from right, along with other participants of the Korea-German Youth Exchange Program during a press event at the Westin Chosun Hotel in Seoul Sept. 18. Yonhap By Kim Hyun-bin To commemorate the 140th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Korea and Germany, the 140 Years Korean-Germany Partnerships Conference was held to discuss ways to further enhance cooperation between the two countries in Seoul, Monday. The event was jointly organized by six entities within the Korea-Germany community, including the German Embassy in Seoul and ADeKo, a Korean-German alumni network that brought together approximately 300 professionals from industry and academia. Prominent figures in attendance included the Ambassador-designate of Germany to Korea, Georg Schmidt, ADeKo Chairman Kim Hyo-joon, and Martin Henkelmann, head of the Korean-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KGCCI). They convened to reflect upon the accomplishments and current state of the 140-year diplomatic relationship between the two nations and to explore future directions and collaboration. The origins of diplomatic relations between Korea and Germany can be traced back to Oct. 24, 1883 when a German negotiating delegation arrived via a military vessel at Jemulpo Port, now known as Incheon. That pivotal year saw the signing of the Korea-Germany Treaty of 1883, which was aimed at fostering economic ties, thereby setting the stage for ongoing exchanges and cooperation across diverse domains including economics, politics, society and culture. A significant historical note was also shared by Schmidt. "German field hospitals were established to treat Korean soldiers during the Korean War. Furthermore, six decades ago, individuals were sent to Germany under the Korea-Germany labor agreement, leading to enduring personal connections that greatly strengthened the partnership between the two countries," he said. Over the course of 140 years, Korea and Germany have engaged in robust economic exchanges. As of 2022, their bilateral trade volume reached approximately 45 trillion won ($33.6 billion), marking a 34 percent increase compared to a decade earlier. "There has been a tremendously growing economic interconnection over the past decades, promoted in particular by the EU-Korea Free Trade Agreement. Three numbers illustrate this: German investments in Korea have amounted to a cumulative $13.7 billion over the past 60 years. Korea has now become Germany's third-largest trading partner in Asia. And bilateral trade volume in 2022 reached an impressive $33.7 billion, the highest ever," Henkelmann said. Notably, the number of German students studying in Korea has witnessed significant growth over the years, with Germany surpassing Korea in terms of student exchange numbers since the early days of the Hallyu wave in 2011. In recent years, the number of German students studying in Korea has nearly doubled compared with the number of Korean students studying in Germany. Korea now stands as the fourth most popular destination for German students in 2022, marking a unique position among non-English-speaking nations. Efforts are also underway to enhance academic exchanges and cooperation between Korea and Germany for future generations. During this event, a memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed with the German entities and the Korean government for the Youth Exchange Program, aimed at facilitating interactions between young students from both countries. This program aims to support academic knowledge exchange and foster friendly cultural interactions among young students from the two countries. The first group of 30 first-grade students is scheduled to visit Germany in 2024. The program is set to expand to 200 students in 2024 and 500 students in 2026. Stripe, a financial infrastructure platform for businesses, today marked its 10th anniversary serving Irish businesses, with the release of data revealing widespread, rapid growth in the countrys internet economy. Founded by Co Tipperary brothers Patrick and John Collison, the company has become a global business. Advertisement Stripes data provides a window into Irelands growth. In 2013, only a few hundred Irish businesses used Stripe. Now, "tens of thousands of ventures run on Stripe, with hundreds more joining every week". They include technology companies such as Glofox and Wayflyer that were built on Stripe from the beginning, and heritage enterprises like the GAA, Irish Life, and Smyths Toys Superstores that are "reinventing themselves for the digital age". Over the last decade, Irish businesses have processed more than 20 billion on Stripe. Advertisement Thinking back to when we launched Stripe, Irelands tech scene is like night and day. Tech founders would find it impossibly difficult to raise money and compete for talent, and small businesses simply didnt have the tools to operate online. Nowadays, Ireland produces software companies at industrial scale, and the internet economy is everywhere. With new talent coming through courses like the University of Limericks Immersive Software Engineering and accelerators like NDRC, Im excited to see what Irish founders build next, said John Collison, cofounder and president of Stripe. After a decade of expansion, Irelands internet economy has "a lot more room to grow". Official statistics reveal that, even during the pandemic, only 22 per cent of goods and services were ordered online. Businesses in health, education, and other large Irish industries are only just starting to transition to the internet, according to Stripe. The countrys small businesses still generate four-fifths of their revenue from in-person sales, according to the European Commission. Advertisement Stripe has predicted a promising decade to come in terms of the internet economy. An interview with Chancellor Jeremy Hunt on GB News by two fellow Conservative MPs ahead of the spring budget breached impartiality rules, broadcast regulator Ofcom has said. A pre-recorded interview with Mr Hunt by former pensions minister Esther McVey and backbencher Philip Davies was broadcast on their Saturday morning show in March prompting 45 complaints. Advertisement GB News said it was disappointed with the ruling and disagreed with Ofcoms definition of due impartiality but added that it would reflect on Ofcoms view. Ofcom said GB News should have taken additional steps to ensure that due impartiality was preserved and found that the programme was overwhelmingly reflective of the viewpoints of different strands of opinion within the Conservative Party. Following an investigation, we have found an episode of Good Morning with Esther and Phil on GB News, broke our due impartiality rules. This episode featured a pre-recorded interview with the Chancellor, ahead of the spring budget. Read for more: https://t.co/KPWNqYoyFB pic.twitter.com/9aBdkLsV2u Advertisement Advertisement Ofcom (@Ofcom) September 18, 2023 It added: There were only very limited references to wider perspectives on UK economic and fiscal policy in the context of the forthcoming budget. Advertisement For example, no real attention was given anywhere in the programme to the viewpoints of politicians, political parties, organisations or individuals that either, for example, criticised, opposed or put forward policy alternatives to the viewpoints given by the three Conservative politicians. The married couple have presented a programme on the channel since 2021, including Friday Morning With Esther And Philip and the Saturday show. During the interview, Tatton MP Ms McVey asked Mr Hunt if he was embarrassed, ashamed to have the highest levels of taxation in modern history. Other Conservative political figures front programmes on GB News, including former cabinet member Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg and deputy party chairman Lee Anderson. Advertisement Sir Jacobs show is being investigated for allegedly twice breaching Ofcoms politicians as presenters rule which means no politician may be used as a newsreader, interviewer or reporter in any news programmes unless, exceptionally, it is editorially justified. Philip Davies with Esther McVey. Photo: David Mirzoeff/PA. Ofcom investigated the Davies/McVey Chancellor interview under this rule but found no breach because it was deemed a current affairs show, not news. Advertisement Advertisement But two of their programmes from May are still being investigated under the politicians as presenters rule. The channel is also under investigation for two further alleged due impartiality breaches, one for its Dont Kill Cash campaign and another for a show presented by Martin Daubney standing in for Lawrence Fox. Ofcoms ruling was the third breach by GB News since it launched in June 2021. In a statement, the broadcaster said: We are disappointed by Ofcoms ruling on our programme, Saturday Morning with Esther and Phil. We feel that the regulators definition of due impartiality is imprecise. It added: Ofcoms finding also accepts that our programme included reference to a wider range of views in its interview with Chancellor Jeremy Hunt ahead of his budget in March. These included opinions from independent journalist and commentator Michael Crick and SDP politician Patrick OFlynn, who disagreed with Mr Hunt on several key points. Our programme featured a range of views from our audience, and from two business owners who offered different perspectives on how the issues would affect them. Our two presenters, both Conservative MPs, also challenged Mr Hunt. GB News chose to be regulated by Ofcom, and we are proud to play our part in bringing a wider range of opinion to Britains media landscape. We take compliance seriously, and we believe our programme embraced this. We will reflect on Ofcoms view. The Friends Experience is coming to Ireland for the first time in news which will excite fans of the iconic sitcom. After a successful European tour, which over 250,000 Friends fans attended in Paris and Brussels alone, and a recent UK debut in Birmingham, The Friends Experience will be heading to the Theatre Of Light, The Point Square, Dublin from October 24th. Advertisement Friends fans will have the opportunity to take a look at the making of the show, costumes and props and recreate some of the most iconic moments from the television series. The experience features interactive sets including Monicas kitchen and the Friends fountain. Fans can go behind famous scenes, "such as peeking around Rachel and Monicas purple door, relaxing in Chandler and Joeys recliners or helping Ross with the infamous sofa pivot". Advertisement Advertisement Central Perk, the coffee house where numerous scenes took place, will also be fully created in the Theatre of Light "complete with the legendary orange sofa". We are hugely excited to bring The Friends Experience to Dublin for the very first time we know Ireland is full of Friends fans, so we cant wait to see them on the famous orange sofa, said Stacy Moscatelli, Co-president and chief strategy officer of Original X Productions. Friends fans will be able to step inside the world of the iconic series, relive their favourite moments and celebrate the show like never before." The Friends Experience has also visited US cities including Boston, Washington DC, Chicago, and has active locations in Detroit and Long Beach, as well as a flagship in New York City. Tickets for The Friends Experience in Dublin will be on sale from September 22nd and can be purchased via www.FriendsTheExperience.com/Dublin. Trade union Siptu has condemned the "arrogance and hypocrisy" of Bord na Mona's management after revelations the company paid a benefit-in-kind tax bill for the 127,000 electric BMW used by the chief executive and for his health insurance at a cost of 64,000. Speaking about the revelations, Siptu divisional organiser Adrian Kane said: "The largesse that Bord na Mona demonstrates towards its senior management contrasts sharply with its miserly approach to workers in recent years. Advertisement "When it comes to the just transition and climate change, management's policy appears to be six-figure electric cars for chief executives but unemployment for workers in Derrinlough. In the midst of a cost-of-living crisis, that arrogance and hypocrisy will be difficult for our members to stomach. "As a publicly-supported body, it is vital that Bord na Mona comes forward and clarifies whether other individuals in senior management are in receipt of similar lavish arrangements." Advertisement Meanwhile, Fine Gael TD Fergus ODowd described the actions as unacceptable. Speaking on RTE radios Morning Ireland, Mr ODowd, who received the details in a series of responses to parliamentary questions he put to the Minister for the Environment Eamon Ryan, said that both the cost of the car and the covering of the BIK were unacceptable. Advertisement Ordinary Joe soaps would be shocked that a CEOs bill for BIK would be covered by a semi-state company, he said. The Bord Na Mona CEO Tom Donnellan should pay his own BIK, he added. According to details released to Mr ODowd the car provided for Mr Donnellan was an electric BMW iX Sport 5-door SUV worth 127,000. The car has 14,000 of factory extras included such as metallic paint and a comfort plus pack worth 5,170. A BMW iX, similar to the one provided to Bord Na Mona CEO Tom Donnellan Mr ODowd said that most people could only dream of having a car like that. There should be a maximum ceiling of 60,000 set by the Government for car purchase for any semi-state chief executive and if they wish for a higher spec they should pay it themselves. Advertisement It's unacceptable that amount of money being spent on a car. It is absolutely unacceptable. It's not good value for money. Its an appalling situation that money is being wasted on a car of that cost. I don't see why Bord Na Mona don't actually pay the chief executive officer that amount of money in his pay, he said. I know many people who drive a company car, and they're telling me that after the last budget they were having great difficulty to pay their BIK. My own friends BIK went from 60 to 100 per week for his company car, and that was on top of increased mortgage payments and having a young family. So the ordinary Joe soap out there, he's finding it very difficult to pay his BIK. I think it's a huge issue, said Mr ODowd. A total of 26 motorists were fined 379,000 after missing court and ignoring hundreds of unpaid M50 tolls, including a driver who used the motorway almost 500 times. Another motorist, citing the Magna Carta Hiberniae of 1216 and an ancient charter, failed to bypass his road charges. Advertisement The M50 toll proceedings at Dublin District Court involved civil actions and separate prosecutions for motorists with more significant records of failing to pay their tolls and who face hefty fines and convictions. Stephen Delaney, of Fatima Place, Kilkenny City, came to court and contested the civil case against him on Monday concerning seven unpaid journeys on the motorway. He argued that Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), the State agency dealing with road and public transport infrastructure, did not have the authority to enforce tolls. Mr Delaney, representing himself, referred to Earl John's Charter to Dublin from 1192, exempting everyone under his dominion from tolls. Advertisement Advertisement He submitted that the Magna Carta Hiberniae of 1216 carried that over to all the king's heirs, and those rights were continued in the Irish Free State constitution and later Bunreacht na hEireann. Thomas Rice BL, for TII, counter-argued that Bunreacht na hEireann prevented pre-independence legislation from scrutinising current laws. He also asked the court to note that tolls had been part of Ireland's history prior to independence. Judge Anthony Halpin rejected Mr Delaney's submissions and said his "esoteric" arguments did not trump the State's constitution. He ordered him to pay the charges, which ratcheted up to 1,077, plus TII's legal costs. Hundreds of unpaid tolls The separate prosecutions list involved 24 private car owners and two commercial van owners among the motorists fined between 5,000 and 19,000 on Monday after they failed to come to court. Advertisement The worst record in the cases on Monday involved a driver with a history of 497 unpaid tolls who was fined 19,000 in his absence. They faced five sample charges for dodging the motorway charges from October to December last year. TII prosecuted them after sending each driver hundreds of warning letters, most of which went unanswered. Judge Halpin noted the types of vehicles, their overall records of outstanding charges, efforts made to pay and their non-attendance. Advertisement In each case, the court heard evidence of the overall number of unpaid tolls and details of the level of engagement with the motorway operators and records of vehicle ownership. Advertisement The 26 motorists were also ordered to pay 350 toward prosecution costs. Mr Rice (instructed by Pierse Fitzgibbon Solicitors) said the cases could proceed against them in their absence. A TII witness confirmed each vehicle's ownership records, the number of passages, and payment history. Some had recently stopped being owners of the cars subject to the prosecutions. However, TII established that they were the owners at the time of the journeys. It also had images of all the vehicles passing the toll location. The court can impose fines of up to 5,000 per charge and a six-month sentence. Advertisement However, it remains the practice of the motorway authority to select habitual non-payers to face criminal proceedings. Judge Halpin said those who had a genuine excuse for not coming but were fined in their absence still had the option to apply to the court to set aside the fine or appeal to the Circuit Court. Ireland Jacqui Hurley settles injury claim from M50 collis... Read More The standard toll for a private car is 3.20, which must be paid before 8pm the following day, or there is a 3 penalty for missing the deadline. Motorists get 14 days to pay for the journey and the initial penalty or face a more significant fee. The charge ramps up after 56 days; warning letters and court proceedings follow if it remains unpaid. Commercial and goods vehicle owners pay higher tolls. In all cases, the registered vehicle owner is liable even if they were not driving. The Molly Malone statue in Dublin city centre has been vandalised for a third time in two months. The bronze statue on Suffolk Street had green writing scrawled across its chest with the words Please dont, TY [thank you] on Sunday. Advertisement Last month, black paint was twice daubed in separate incidents on the statues chest. On one of the occasions the phrase, 7 Years Bad Luck appeared. Dublin City Council, which looks after monuments across the city centre, had to have the bronze plating repaired on that occasion. The statue is popular with tourists who are encouraged to rub the statues chest for good luck by travel guides. The vandalism may be related to local opposition to the practice. A former lord mayor has called on the council to move the statue. Advertisement Advertisement Dublin north inner city Independent Cllr Christy Burke said: Molly Malone statue has now been spray painted three times over the past few months. Its time to change the location of the statue. He said the council needs to move the statue to a more secure spot. Cllr Burke believes the grounds of Mansion House on Dawson St would be a safe location due to it being a busy area and where there are numerous CCTV cameras. The statue first appeared 35 years ago on Grafton Street in 1988 but was later moved to Suffolk Street to make way for Luas line configurations. Gardai said they had no statement on the vandalism and that Dublin City Council should be able to provide information on this. A mother and son are to stand trial accused of robbing and risking the life of a passenger allegedly "ejected" from a fake taxi while still in motion in Dublin. Maria Muntean (34) and Damit Rostas (18), who have an address at Virginia Hall, Belgard Square, Tallaght, Dublin, were arrested in Ballsbridge just before 4am on March 17th and charged with robbery of the man of his iPhone and bank card. Advertisement They also face charges for endangerment of life and deceiving the man into getting into her vehicle by pretending to provide a taxi service and failing to stop when the man was pushed out. They appeared again at Dublin District Court on Monday, and the prosecution served them with books of evidence. Judge Michele Finan noted the Director of Public Prosecutions directed the case to proceed to a higher level with broader sentencing powers. Advertisement Judge Finan agreed to the State's request to grant a return for trial order, sending mother and son forward to the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, where the case will be listed for mention on October 26th. Advertisement The pair, yet to indicate a plea and granted legal aid, were remanded on bail. The judge directed gardai to hand over copies of video evidence to the defence and told the defendants they must notify the prosecution if they intended to use alibis in their defence. During a March 18th bail hearing, Garda Gillian Duffy said she and a colleague were on mobile patrol when they observed a '08-reg car driving along Serpentine Avenue, Dublin 4. She alleged it "slowed down but was still in motion" when a male was "ejected from the moving vehicle" onto the middle of the road. Advertisement The court heard he was allegedly thrown from the back seat. The garda activated her patrol vehicle's lights, but the car failed to pull over; she overtook it and got to stop by manoeuvring in front. Ireland Woman in hospital after serious Dublin collision i... Read More It was claimed that the mother of seven, Maria Muntean, drove and that Damit Rostas, in the back seat, allegedly pushed the injured party from the moving car. Garda Duffy claimed Mr Rostas had approached the intoxicated complainant on Kildare Street, where he had fallen asleep against a statue. It was the prosecution case that Mr Rostas aroused him and told him he was operating a taxi service, and the man got into the back seat. However, when the car reached Serpentine Avenue, he was spotted falling out but "got up and looked very stunned". U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Philip Goldberg speaks during a special lecture session hosted by Chey Institute for Advanced Studies, Monday. Captured from livestream Chey Institute chief floats idea of S. Korea, US jointly producing nuclear-powered subs By Nam Hyun-woo The recent trilateral summit between South Korea, the United States and Japan at Camp David was not aimed at containing China's assertions in the Indo-Pacific region, according to U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Philip Goldberg, Monday, who said it is rather a recognition that there are "important issues involved for peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region." Goldberg made those remarks online during a special lecture session hosted by the Chey Institute for Advanced Studies, a private think tank established by Chey Jong-hyun, who is a former SK Group chairman. "The Camp David Summit does not confront China," Goldberg said. "It expands this relationship into new areas trilaterally that are unique and that are pertinent and valuable for democratic like-minded countries. That doesn't mean that we're turning a blind eye on some of the issues related to China." The Camp David summit took place on Aug. 18, during which President Yoon Suk Yeol, U.S. President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida signed three documents elevating the three countries' partnerships into a quasi-alliance across security, industry and other fields of cooperation. While asserting the three countries' partnerships across all fields of cooperation, the summit noted their resolute objections to attempts to change the status quo by force, China's territorial claims in the South China Sea and their support for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Though the agreements were assumed as the three countries' proclamation against China's assertion in the Indo-Pacific region, Biden said during the summit that they were not targeting Beijing, but rather "deepening cooperation across the entire range of issues." "That's not something that makes this particular set of agreements aimed at China," Goldberg said. "But it's a recognition that there are very important issues involved for peace and security in the Indo-Pacific, ones that we share together, and need to confront together when needed, or at least to speak up about." During his lecture, Goldberg stressed the trilateral summit is about the sustainability of the trilateral partnership, which was enabled by President Yoon's effort to mend Seoul's ties with Tokyo. "These agreements are far-reaching, and they are endurable because they are so far-reaching," Goldberg said, citing the trilateral meetings between foreign ministers, national security advisers and industry ministers. "Political changes may take place in one of the three capitals at some point, but we believe it's in the inherent interest of each of the three countries," he said. "The U.S.-Korea relationship, and maybe even more so, at this point, at least in the short term the trilateral relationship has enormous bipartisan support in the U.S. Congress. That's something too that can add to the durability of these agreements from our side." During the lecture session, Chey Institute President Park In-kook floated the idea of Seoul and Washington jointly producing nuclear-powered submarines. "The U.S. Jones Act currently prevents the production of naval ships outside American soil," Park said. "This may have led to skyrocketing prices of submarines and naval shipbuilding. Now is the optimal time for the two allies to actively discuss cooperation on the issue of creating a consortium for nuclear-powered submarines with a view to utilizing Korean shipbuilding docks and experienced workforce at a reasonable price." Under the act, the U.S. can build naval warships only in domestic shipyards, which affects the country's ability to expand its naval capabilities compared to China. According to a U.S. Office of Naval Intelligence slide that was leaked online recently, Chinese shipyards have a capacity of about 23.2 million tons compared to less than 100,000 tons in the U.S., making Beijing's shipbuilding capacity more than 232 times greater than that of Washington. Due to this, debates are ongoing over whether the U.S. should outsource its naval shipbuilding to friendly nations, namely South Korea and Japan, which also possess experienced shipbuilders. Nuclear-powered submarines have become a subject of heated interest in South Korea as well, after North Korean leader Kim Jong-un made it clear that securing a nuclear-propelled submarine, which can run without refueling for 20 years or even longer, is one of the objectives his military is pursuing, during Pyongyang's Sept. 9 founding anniversary. World leaders need to make up for lost time and strive to meet 2030 targets for sustainable development, the Taoiseach has said. Leo Varadkar will address a summit in New York on Monday on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Advertisement The goals cover 17 interlinked areas for action agreed by world leaders in 2015. They are designed to increase global prosperity, tackle inequalities and protect the environment. Ahead of his visit to the US, Mr Varadkar said countries needed to redouble efforts to achieve the 2030 goals, with progress currently behind schedule. Advertisement Tanaiste Micheal Martin, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Minister for the Environment Eamon Ryan are all travelling to New York (Liam McBurney/PA) My visit to the United Nations comes at a time of critical challenge for the world, he said. Ireland has been centrally involved in developing and implementing the Sustainable Development Goals which were adopted in 2015. Progress towards achieving them has been set back by the pandemic, the consequences of conflict, including in Ukraine, and by the increasing pace and ferocity of extreme weather events. Advertisement Advertisement I will be urging leaders to make maximum use of the time ahead to make up this lost ground, and to really focus on ensuring we reach the targets we have set ourselves by 2030. The worlds most vulnerable people in particular, are depending on us. Tanaiste Micheal Martin and Environment Minister and Green Party leader Eamon Ryan are also attending the UN in New York. Advertisement UN General Assembly kicks off this week. Countries from around thewill gather to act on global issues. As Ireland marks 100 years of peace building, we will advocate strongly for our values of fairness, equality and solidarity#Ireland at #UNGA23 This is #GlobalIreland pic.twitter.com/j4ucRLX7Hp Irish Foreign Ministry (@dfatirl) September 16, 2023 Advertisement On Tuesday Mr Varadkar will be at the opening of the UNs 78th General Assembly, at which he will have a number of meetings, formal and informal, with counterparts from around the world in the margins. He will deliver Irelands National Statement to the Assembly on Friday. He will also meet young Irish people involved in the tech sector; make an address to the Council on Foreign Relations on Irish foreign policy priorities; and attend a lunch for the Ireland Funds organisation. Advertisement He will also visit the Irish Arts Centre, which is hosting an exhibition of work by artist Colin Davidson. I am also greatly looking forward to renewing contacts with the Irish community in New York, including young people working in tech, and board members of the Irish Funds who have done so much to promote peace and reconciliation in Ireland, he said. The Taoiseach will also travel to Miami, where he will officially open Irelands ninth consulate general in the US and meet representatives of the Irish community there. I am also pleased to have the opportunity to officially open Irelands new consulate general in Miami, our ninth in the United States, and a further signal of the Governments commitment to continuing to deepen our diplomatic presence in the Americas, he said. The brother of a man believed to have been shot by the British Army on his 19th birthday in 1973 has said he is legally challenging the Governments controversial legacy bill because he wants justice William Campbell, older brother of Anthony Campbell, is one of a number of victims relatives who are bringing cases to the High Court to challenge the legislation. Advertisement The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill, which is currently awaiting royal assent, will provide a limited form of immunity from prosecution for Troubles-related offences to those who co-operate with the ICRIR. It will also prevent future civil cases and inquests. The Bill was opposed by all major Stormont parties, the Government and victims campaign groups. Advertisement Anthony Campbell was one of six men shot dead in the New Lodge area of Belfast in February 1973 (Campbell family/PA) In February 2021, Northern Ireland Attorney General Brenda King ordered a new inquest into the deaths of a group of men referred to as the New Lodge Six shot in north Belfast in February 1973. Advertisement Some of the men were members of the IRA, but their families have always insisted they were unarmed when they were killed and believe the Army were responsible for all the deaths. However, due to the provisions of the legacy bill, it is unlikely that the inquest will be able to be completed before a cut-off date of May 1st, 2024. Advertisement Mr Campbell said: This legacy bill is a disgrace to human nature because it only helps the British hide their dirty war. The British government are pushing it through very fast, and youve got to ask yourself why? The reason is they are hiding something. Mr Campbell also said he believed the Irish Government had been slow to respond to the incoming legislation. Advertisement Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said the Irish Government is seeking legal advice over the UK Governments legacy bill (Brian Lawless/PA) Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has indicated that the Irish Government has requested legal advice as it considers taking a case against the UK to the European Court of Human Rights. Mr Campbell said: The Government is doing very little on this amnesty bill. Advertisement They are saying they will think about bringing them (the UK Government) to court. This is the reason I am doing this (taking a High Court challenge), and other people are doing it, because they wont move. Advertisement What have Leo Varadkar and Micheal Martin done? Nothing. I want justice for my brother. The Americans are against this bill, the EU is against it, everybody is against it. The Irish Government should be doing more. Mr Campbells challenge is one of five being mounted by Belfast law firm KRW Law. The firm has said the legislation breaches Britains Article 2 ECHR obligations (Right to life in European Convention on Human Rights). Another law firm, Madden & Finucane, has also said it will be challenging the legislation on behalf of a number of relatives of Troubles victims. Chinas top diplomat has begun several days of security consultations with Russian officials following his weekend talks with US President Joe Bidens national security adviser in Malta. Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who simultaneously holds the ruling Communist Partys top foreign policy post, will be in Russia until Thursday for strategic security consultations, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Advertisement Mr Wang opened his talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov by hailing strategic co-operation between the two countries and their shared commitment to a multipolar world and a more just world order, terms Moscow and Beijing use to describe their efforts to counterbalance the perceived US domination of global affairs. Chinese Communist Partys foreign policy chief Wang Yi (Tatan Syuflana/AP/PA) China and Russia, as leading global powers and permanent members of the UN Security Council, bear special responsibility for maintaining global strategic stability and global development, Mr Wang said. Advertisement Advertisement The more violent the unilateral actions of hegemony and bloc confrontation become, the more important for us to keep up with the times, show a sense of duty as great powers, and further fulfil our international obligations. He stressed that Russia-China cooperation isnt directed against anyone and isnt influenced by any other countries. Mr Lavrov emphasised the importance of Russian-Chinese co-operation for ensuring justice in world affairs, for ensuring a balance of interests in the processes that are developing in a variety of directions. He noted that Russia and China will co-ordinate their efforts during this weeks UN General Assembly and other international forums. Advertisement The US and China are at odds over Russias military action in Ukraine. China has refrained from taking sides in the conflict, saying that while a countrys territory must be respected, the West needs to consider Russias security concerns about Nato expansion. It has accused the US of prolonging the fighting by providing arms to Ukraine, weaponry that the US says Kyiv needs to fight back against Russia. Mr Wangs trip to Moscow comes a day after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un left Russia following a six-day visit that included talks with President Vladimir Putin at a far eastern spaceport, visits to aircraft plants and inspections of nuclear-capable strategic bombers and an advanced warship. Advertisement Mr Kims trip fuelled Western concerns about an arms alliance that could boost Russian arsenals for fighting in Ukraine. Advertisement Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov looks on during his meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Moscow on Monday (Russian Foreign Ministry Press Service via AP/PA) China and Russia have grown closer as relations with the West have deteriorated for both. China is looking for support as it seeks to reshape the US-led international order into one that is more accommodating to its approach. Advertisement Last month, it helped engineer an expansion of the BRICS partnership, which invited six more countries to join what has been a five-nation bloc that includes China and Russia. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning called Mr Wangs visit to Russia a routine one to hold in-depth talks on major strategic security interests. Mr Wang discussed Ukraine in his weekend meetings with US national security adviser Jake Sullivan. Both sides described the talks as candid, substantive and constructive as they try to stabilise their rocky relationship and manage differences over security, trade, technology and human rights. Specifics of their talks were not released. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi shakes hands with US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan in Malta in September (Lian Yi/Xinhua via AP/PA) Advertisement Mr Wang stepped down as foreign minister at the end of last year, taking on the more senior position of Communist Party foreign affairs chief, but was called back to the post in July after his successor, Qin Gang, disappeared from public view. It is unclear what happened to Mr Qin, but he may have fallen out of favour with the leadership. More recently, Chinas defence minister, Li Shangfu, also has not been seen for about three weeks, sparking speculation about his fate. It is unusual for two sitting Cabinet members to disappear from sight, although it does not appear to signal any obvious change in defence or foreign policy. The Chinese government has said nothing about Mr Lis disappearance. Asked about it on Monday, Ms Mao, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said she was not aware of the situation. The United Nations Support Mission in Libya has warned that an outbreak of disease in the countrys north east, where floods have killed more than 11,000 people, could create a second devastating crisis. In a statement, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya said it was particularly concerned about water contamination and the lack of sanitation after two dams collapsed during Mediterranean storm Daniel sending a wall of water gushing through the eastern city of Derna a week ago. Advertisement Some 11,300 residents were killed and a further 10,000 people are missing presumed dead, the countrys Red Crescent said. The mission said there are nine UN agencies in the country responding to the disaster and working on preventing diseases from taking hold that can cause a second devastating crisis in the area. Advertisement Derna has been devastated (Jamal Alkomaty/AP) Advertisement It added the World Health Organisation has sent 28 tons of medical supplies to the devastated country. Haider al-Saeih, head of Libyas Centre for Combating Diseases, said in televised comments on Saturday that at least 150 people suffered diarrhoea after drinking contaminated water in Derna. The disaster has brought some rare unity to oil-rich Libya, which has been divided between rival administrations since 2014. Both are backed by international patrons and armed militias whose influence in the country has ballooned since a Nato-backed Arab Spring uprising toppled autocratic ruler Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. Advertisement Residents from the nearby cities of Benghazi and Tobruk have offered to put up the displaced while volunteers have been looking for survivors buried beneath the rubble. The opposing governments have both deployed humanitarian teams to the port city and other affected areas of the country but had initially struggled to respond to the crisis. Their efforts have been hampered by poor coordination, difficulty getting aid to the hardest-hit areas, and the destruction of Dernas infrastructure, including several bridges. The health minister from Libyas eastern government, Othman Abduljaleel, said on Sunday that his ministry had begun a vaccination programme against diseases that usually occur after disasters such as this one. Advertisement Advertisement Victims of the flash flood are buried in Derna (Yousef Murad/AP) As of Sunday, 3,283 bodies had been buried, Mr Abduljaleel said, many in mass graves outside Derna, while others were transferred to nearby towns and cities. Also on Monday, Unesco said it was concerned about the state of the ruins of Cyrene, an ancient Greco-Roman city that lies roughly 37 miles east of Derna. Advertisement Unesco is in contact with archaeologists on the ground and its satellite imaging team is also trying to establish what the damage might be, the agency said. Cyrene is one of five Libyan Unesco World Heritage sites. Five prisoners, thought to include British-American-Iranian Morad Tahbaz, who were sought by the US as part of a swap have left Tehran, an official said. Flight-tracking data analysed by the Associated Press showed a Qatar Airways flight took off from Mehrabad International Airport, which has been used for exchanges in the past. Advertisement Iranian state media soon after said the flight had left Tehran and a US official later confirmed five American prisoners and two family members were flying to the US. Earlier, a total of nearly 6 billion dollars (4.84bn) of Iranian assets once frozen in South Korea was sent to Qatar, a key element for the planned swap of prisoners. Iranian official Nasser Kanaani said: The issue of swap of prisoners will be done on this day and five prisoners, citizens of the Islamic Republic, will be released from the prisons in the US. Advertisement Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani speaks in Tehran (Iranian Foreign Ministry via AP) Advertisement Five imprisoned citizens who were in Iran will be given to the US side reciprocally, based on their will. We expect these two issues fully take place based on agreement. He said two of the Iranian prisoners will stay in the US. The announcement by Mr Kanaani comes weeks after Iran said that five Iranian-Americans were under house arrest as part of a confidence-building move while Seoul allowed the frozen assets, held in South Korean currency, to be converted into euros. That money was then sent to Qatar, an interlocutor between Tehran and Washington in the negotiations. Advertisement One of the five prisoners was Morad Tahbaz, a British-American conservationist of Iranian descent who was arrested in 2018 and received a 10-year sentence for alleged spying. The swap unfolded amid a major American military build-up in the Persian Gulf, with the possibility of US troops boarding and guarding commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of all oil shipments pass. The deal has opened President Joe Biden to fresh criticism from Republicans and others who say that the administration is helping boost the Iranian economy at a time when Iran poses a growing threat to US troops and Middle East allies. Advertisement On the US side, Washington has said the planned swap includes Siamak Namazi, who was detained in 2015 and later sentenced to 10 years in prison on internationally criticised spying charges, Emad Sharghi, a venture capitalist sentenced to 10 years, as well as Mr Tahbaz. Advertisement US officials have so far declined to identify the fourth and fifth prisoner. The five prisoners Iran has said it seeks are mostly held over allegedly trying to export material to Iran. President Joe Biden could face criticism over the prisoner swap (Andrew Harnik/AP) Advertisement Nour News said two of them had already arrived in Doha: Mehrdad Ansari, an Iranian sentenced to 63 months in prison in 2021 for obtaining equipment that could be used in missiles, electronic warfare, nuclear weapons and other military gear, and Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani, an Iranian charged in 2021 over allegedly unlawfully exporting laboratory equipment to Iran. The cash which was unfrozen represents money South Korea owed Iran but had not yet paid for oil purchased before the Trump administration imposed sanctions on such transactions in 2019. The US maintains that, once in Qatar, the money will be held in restricted accounts and will only be able to be used for humanitarian goods, such as medicine and food. Those transactions are allowed under American sanctions targeting the Islamic Republic over its advancing nuclear programme. Advertisement Iranian government officials have largely concurred with that explanation, though some hard-liners have insisted, without providing evidence, that there would be no restrictions on how Tehran spends the money. Iran and the US have a history of prisoner swaps dating back to the 1979 US Embassy takeover and hostage crisis following the Islamic Revolution. Their most recent major exchange happened in 2016, when Iran came to a deal with world powers to restrict its nuclear programme in return for an easing of sanctions. Four American captives, including Washington Post journalist Jason Rezaian, flew home from Iran at the time, and several Iranians in the US won their freedom. That same day, President Barack Obamas administration airlifted 400 million dollars in cash to Tehran. Iran has received international criticism over its targeting of people with dual citizenship. The West accuses Iran of using foreign prisoners as bargaining chips, an allegation Tehran rejects. Negotiations over a major prisoner swap faltered after then-president Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew America from the nuclear deal in 2018. From the following year on, a series of attacks and ship seizures attributed to Iran have raised tensions. Meanwhile, Irans nuclear programme now enriches closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. While the head of the United Nations nuclear watchdog has warned that Iran now has enough enriched uranium to produce several bombs, months more would likely be needed to build a weapon and potentially miniaturise it to put it on a missile if Iran decided to pursue one. The US intelligence community has maintained its assessment that Iran is not pursuing an atomic bomb. Five prisoners sought by the US in a prisoner swap with Iran including British-American-Iranian Morad Tahbaz have landed in Qatar, officials said. It is part of a deal that saw nearly six billion dollars (4.85 billion) in Iranian assets unfrozen. Advertisement Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home, US President Joe Biden said in a statement released as the plane carrying the group from Tehran landed in Doha, Qatar. Advertisement After the plane slowed to a stop, three of the prisoners walked down the ramp and were greeted by the US ambassador to Qatar, Timmy Davis. The former prisoners hugged the ambassador and others. The three Mr Tahbaz, Siamak Namazi and Emad Sharghi then wrapped their arms around their shoulders and walked off to a building in the airport. Advertisement In a statement issued on his behalf after landing, Mr Namazi said: I would not be free today, if it wasnt for all of you who didnt allow the world to forget me. Emad Sharghi, Morad Tahbaz and Siamak Namazi, former prisoners in Iran, leave a Qatar Airways plane that brought them out of Tehran and to Doha, Qatar (Lujain Jo/AP/PA) Advertisement Thank you for being my voice when I could not speak for myself and for making sure I was heard when I mustered the strength to scream from behind the impenetrable walls of Evin Prison, Mr Namazi said. In addition to the five prisoners, two of the imprisoned Americans family members, Effie Namazi and Vida Tahbaz, who had been held under travel bans in Iran, also were on the plane. The women, too, clasped arms and kissed on the tarmac in Qatar. US officials have declined to identify the two other released prisoners. Advertisement In a statement, Mr Sharghis sister, Neda, said she cant wait to hug my brother and never let him go. This is my brother, not an abstract policy, she added. We are talking about human lives. There is nothing partisan about saving the lives of innocent Americans and today should be a moment of American unity as we welcome them home. Advertisement The cash represents money South Korea owed Iran but had not yet paid for oil purchased before the US imposed sanctions on such transactions in 2019. Despite the deal, tensions are almost certain to remain high between the US and Iran, which are locked in various disputes, including over Tehrans nuclear programme. Iran says the programme is peaceful, but it now enriches uranium closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. Advertisement Morad Tahbaz, Siamak Namazi and Emad Sharghi walk away arm in arm from the plane that brought them out of Tehran in a prisoner swap with Iran (Lujain Jo/AP/PA) The planned exchange has unfolded amid a major American military build-up in the Persian Gulf, with the possibility of US troops boarding and guarding commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of all oil shipments pass. Earlier, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani said that the exchange would take place Monday after nearly six billion dollars in once-frozen Iranian assets reached Qatar. Fortunately Irans frozen assets in South Korea were released and God willing today the assets will start to be fully controlled by the government and the nation, Mr Kanaani said. On the subject of the prisoner swap, it will happen today and five prisoners, citizens of the Islamic Republic, will be released from the prisons in the US, he added. Five imprisoned citizens who were in Iran will be given to the US side. Advertisement He said two of the Iranian prisoners will stay in the US. Meanwhile, Nour News, a website believed to be close to Irans security apparatus, said two of the Iranian prisoners had arrived in Doha for the swap. Mohammad Reza Farzin, Irans Central Bank chief, later came on state television to acknowledge the receipt of more than 5.5 billion euros in accounts in Qatar. Months ago, Iran had anticipated getting as much as seven billion. US President Joe Biden welcomed the prisoner exchange (Andrew Harnik/AP/PA) The exchange comes ahead of the convening of world leaders at the UN General Assembly this week in New York, where Irans hard-line President Ebrahim Raisi will speak. The deal has already opened Mr Biden to fresh criticism from Republicans and others who say that the administration is helping boost the Iranian economy at a time when Iran poses a growing threat to American troops and Middle East allies. That could have implications in his re-election campaign. Former US president Donald Trump, currently the lead Republican challenger in the polls against Mr Bidens 2024 re-election bid, called it an absolutely ridiculous deal on the Truth Social social media site. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell accused Mr Biden of rewarding and incentivising Tehrans bad behaviour. Advertisement Mr Biden held what the White House described as an emotional phone call with the families of the freed Americans after their release. In his statement, Mr Biden urged Americans not to travel to Iran, and he demanded more information on what happened to Bob Levinson, an American who went missing several years ago. Mr Biden also announced sanctions on former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and the Iranian Ministry of Intelligence. The prisoners freed on Monday were Mr Namazi, who was detained in 2015 and was later sentenced to 10 years in prison on spying charges; Mr Sharghi, a venture capitalist sentenced to 10 years; and Mr Tahbaz, a British-American conservationist of Iranian descent who was arrested in 2018 and also received a 10-year sentence. All their charges have been widely criticised by their families, activists and the US government. US officials have declined to identify the fourth and fifth prisoners. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken thanked the Qataris, Swiss, South Koreans and Omanis for helping in the exchange, and pledged in a statement to keep pressing for accountability for Iran and other regimes for the cruel practice of wrongful detention. Iranians Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani, right, and Mehrdad Moein Ansari pose at Doha airport in Qatar after being released from prison in the US in a prisoner swap with Iran (Nour News via AP/PA) Advertisement The five prisoners Iran has said it seeks are mostly held over allegedly trying to export banned material to Iran, such as dual use electronics that can be used by a military. The two that Nour News said were in Doha were Mehrdad Ansari, an Iranian sentenced to 63 months in prison in 2021 for obtaining equipment that could be used in missiles, electronic warfare, nuclear weapons and other military gear, and Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani, an Iranian charged in 2021 over allegedly unlawfully exporting laboratory equipment to Iran. The cash represents money South Korea owed Iran but had not yet paid for oil purchased before the US imposed sanctions on such transactions in 2019. The US maintains that, once in Qatar, the money will be held in restricted accounts and will only be able to be used for humanitarian goods, such as medicine and food. Those transactions are currently allowed under American sanctions targeting the Islamic Republic over its advancing nuclear programme. Iranian government officials have largely concurred with that explanation, though some hard-liners have insisted, without providing evidence, that there would be no restrictions on how Tehran spends the money. Iran and the US have a history of prisoner swaps dating back to the 1979 US Embassy takeover and hostage crisis following the Islamic Revolution. Their most recent major exchange happened in 2016, when Iran came to a deal with world powers to restrict its nuclear program in return for an easing of sanctions. The West accuses Iran of using foreign prisoners including those with dual nationality as bargaining chips, an allegation Tehran rejects. Negotiations over a major prisoner swap faltered after then-President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew America from the nuclear deal in 2018. From the following year on, a series of attacks and ship seizures attributed to Iran have raised tensions. Meanwhile, Irans nuclear programme now enriches closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. While the head of the United Nations nuclear watchdog has warned that Iran now has enough enriched uranium to produce several bombs, months more would likely be needed to build a weapon and potentially miniaturize it to put it on a missile if Iran decided to pursue one. Iran maintains its nuclear programme is peaceful, and the US intelligence community has kept its assessment that Iran is not pursuing an atomic bomb. Iran has taken steps in recent months to settle some issues with the International Atomic Energy Agency. But the advances in its programme have led to fears of a wider regional conflagration as Israel, itself a nuclear power, has said it would not allow Tehran to develop the bomb. Israel bombed both Iraq and Syria to stop their nuclear programmes, giving the threat more weight. It also is suspected in carrying out a series of killings targeting Irans nuclear scientists. Iran also supplies Russia with the bomb-carrying drones Moscow uses to target sites in Ukraine in its war on Kyiv, which remains another major dispute between Tehran and Washington. Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is starting a US trip in California to talk about technology and artificial intelligence with billionaire businessman Elon Musk. The Israeli leader posted on Monday on Mr Musks social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, that he plans to talk with the Tesla chief executive about how we can harness the opportunities and mitigate the risks of AI for the good of civilisation. Advertisement Mr Netanyahus high-profile visit to San Francisco comes at a time when Mr Musk is facing accusations of tolerating antisemitic messages on his social media platform, while Mr Netanyahu is confronting political opposition at home and abroad. Protesters gathered early on Monday outside the Fremont, California factory where Tesla makes its cars. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was meeting billionaire businessman Elon Musk during a trip to the US (Ohad Zwigenberg/AP/PA) Advertisement Advertisement A video livestream kicked off shortly before 9.30am local time with Mr Netanyahu and the Tesla boss. Mr Netanyahus official Twitter account posted that he is holding a a one on one conversation with Mr Musk. The two kicked off with a joke about deepfakes and quickly launched into a discussion of artificial intelligence as both a blessing and a curse for humanity. Mr Netanyahu told Mr Musk he hopes that within the confines of the First Amendment he can find a way to clamp down on antisemitism and other forms of hatred on his social media platform. I encourage you and urge you to find the balance. Its a tough one, Mr Netanyahu said. Advertisement Mr Musk said that with 100 million to 200 million posts on Twitter in a day, some of those are gonna be bad. He then reiterated the platforms policy to not promote or amplify hate speech. Under Mr Musk, the former Twitter changed its rules so that objectionable posts are not usually removed, but instead their visibility is limited so people have to seek it out if they want to see it. Mr Musk calls this freedom of speech, not freedom of reach. Hundreds of thousands of Israelis have taken part in nine months of demonstrations against Mr Netanyahus plan to overhaul Israels judicial system. Those protests have spread overseas, with groups of Israeli expats staging demonstrations during visits by Mr Netanyahu and other members of his Cabinet. Advertisement Meanwhile, the Anti-Defamation League, a prominent Jewish civil rights organisation, has accused Mr Musk of allowing antisemitism and hate speech to spread on Twitter, in part by amplifying the messages of neo-Nazis and white supremacists who want to ban the league by engaging with them on the platform. Advertisement In a September 4 post, Mr Musk claimed that the league was trying to kill this platform by falsely accusing it and me of being anti-Semitic. In other posts, he said the league was responsible for a 60% drop in revenue at Twitter. The group met this month with Twitters chief executive, Linda Yaccarino. Both Mr Musk and Ms Yaccarino have recently posted messages saying they oppose antisemitism. From California, Mr Netanyahu heads to New York, where he is scheduled to address the United Nations General Assembly and meet US President Joe Biden and other world leaders, his office said. They include German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, as well as South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Advertisement Mr Netanyahu says the judicial overhaul plan is needed to curb the powers of unelected judges, whom he and his allies say are liberal and overly interventionist. Advertisement Critics say his plan is a power grab that will destroy the countrys system of checks and balances and push it toward autocratic rule. Leading figures in Israels influential high-tech community have played a prominent role in the protests. They say weakening the judiciary will hurt the countrys business climate and drive away foreign investment. Israels currency, the shekel, has plunged in value this year in a sign of weakening foreign investment. Senior officials wanted Queen Elizabeth II to raise concerns about Boris Johnsons mid-pandemic conduct in office during their private conversations, according to a documentary. The British government figures held a number of phone calls and communications with Buckingham Palace about the prospect, the BBC report says. Advertisement The claims are featured in the second episode of the Laura Kuenssberg: State Of Chaos series, exploring the turmoil in Westminster between 2016 and 2022. Former UK prime minister Boris Johnson. Photo: Andrew Boyers/PA. Tackling coronavirus in May 2020, significant tensions were spilling over between Mr Johnsons political team and the British Civil Service. Advertisement Sources told the documentary that senior officials expressed their fears about the then-UK prime ministers conduct to the palace. The officials reportedly hoped Queen Elizabeth II would raise her concerns with Mr Johnson during their private audiences. One source claimed Mr Johnson had to be reminded of the constitution. Advertisement Dominic Cummings, who served as his top adviser, and the Civil Service chief at the time Sir, now Lord, Mark Sedwill, clashed more than once. Advertisement Helen MacNamara, a former deputy cabinet secretary, declined to discuss the calls but said they had been systematically in real trouble during the period. After Mr Johnson was treated in hospital for Covid-19, she said there was extreme talk in his political team about the failings of Whitehall. She said they were taking a kind of smash everything up, shut it all down, start again attitude. Mr Johnson had already caused trouble with the palace when in 2019 he suspended the Commons for five weeks ahead of the Brexit deadline. Advertisement His advice to prorogue Parliament to the Queen was found to have been unlawful by the Supreme Court. Buckingham Palace and Downing Street have been asked to comment. Rap superstar Travis Scott was questioned on Monday in a deposition he is giving in connection with hundreds of lawsuits that were filed against him and others over the deaths and injuries at the 2021 Astroworld festival. Scott was questioned in Houston during a deposition that could take several days to complete, two people with knowledge about the litigation said. Advertisement Lawyers and others connected to the lawsuits are under a gag order, preventing them from saying little beyond what happens during court hearings. A lawyer for Scott did not immediately respond to a request for comment. A spokesperson for Scott said a statement about Mondays deposition was being prepared. Travis Scott was performing at the Astroworld Music Festival in 2021 where 10 people died (Amy Harris/Invision/AP/PA) Advertisement This was the first time Scott was questioned by lawyers for those who have filed lawsuits since a crowd surge at his concert in Houston on November 5 2021 killed 10 festivalgoers. Advertisement Those killed, who ranged in age from nine to 27, died from compression asphyxia, which an expert likened to being crushed by a car. Scotts deposition comes as a judge earlier this year scheduled the first trial from the lawsuits for May 6, 2024. That first trial would take place nearly two and a half years since the deadly concert. Documents filed in court in April listed more than 1,500 active cases, many of which were filed against Scott and Live Nation, the concert promoter. Advertisement Of these, 992 were cases with physical injuries and 313 were cases of emotional distress, pain, suffering and mental anguish. Orthopedic surgeries have been completed in 17 of these cases, with other surgeries recommended in another 21. Some of the lawsuits have since been settled, including those filed by the families of three of the people killed during the concert. In June, a grand jury in Houston declined to indict Scott and five other people on any criminal charges related to the deadly concert. Scotts deposition on Monday took place on the same day that hip-hop artist Drake, who performed several songs with Scott during the Astroworld concert, was performing in Houston. Drake was also sued in connection with the deadly concert. Downing Street has described the sexual assault allegations made against Russell Brand by four different women as very serious and concerning. The 48-year-old comedian and actor has been accused of rape, assault and emotional abuse between 2006 and 2013, when he was at the height of his fame working for the BBC, Channel 4 and starring in Hollywood films. Advertisement Brand vehemently denies the allegations, which also include claims of controlling, abusive and predatory behaviour, and said, in a video posted online on Friday night, that all of his relationships have been consensual. Advertisement UK prime minister Rishi Sunaks official spokesman said: These are very serious and concerning allegations. The Met Police has asked anyone who believes they have been a victim of a sexual assault to come forward to speak to officers. As the Foreign Secretary said over the weekend, people should feel able to raise concerns where they have them and know they will be treated seriously and treated with sensitivity. Advertisement The Prime Minister has been clear there should never be any space for harassment, regardless of where it is found. Advertisement The BBC, Channel 4 and Banijay UK, which bought Endemol, the company commissioned by Channel 4 to produce the Big Brother spin-off shows Brand hosted, have all launched investigations into Brands behaviour while he was working on their programmes. Downing Street urged the BBC and Channel 4 to set out the results of their investigations into Brand transparently. The No 10 spokesman said: Its right that this is looked into and I think both of the broadcasters have said they would investigate, and that is the right step. Im not going to prejudge that, it will be for them to set out what they find and do so transparently. Advertisement Russell Brand has denied the allegations and said all of his relationships have been consensual (John Stillwell/PA) UK culture secretary Lucy Frazer is expected to speak to broadcasters about their investigations into Brand at the first available opportunity. It is understood she will seek assurances that their inquiries will be carried out thoroughly and transparently. Advertisement In recent years Brand has forged a new path as a wellness influencer and host of a YouTube show but Downing Street declined to urge broadcasters and streaming platforms such as YouTube and Netflix to take down his output. Advertisement The UK prime ministers official spokesman said: Its a decision for all broadcasters to consider the right approach in light of these very serious allegations. They are deeply concerning, they need to be investigated. But Im not going to dictate the actions of broadcasters or streaming services. The allegations, detailed in a joint investigation by the Times, Sunday Times and Channel 4s Dispatches, include one woman who says she was sexually assaulted during a three-month relationship with Brand when she was 16 and still at school. The woman described his behaviour towards her as grooming as he would allegedly provide her with scripts on how to deceive her parents into allowing her to visit him. Russell Brand leaves the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre in north-west London after performing a comedy set as he faces allegations of sexual assault (James Manning/PA) The BBC is facing questions after she claimed that he used the corporations car service to pick her up from school to take her to his home. The broadcaster previously said it is urgently looking into the issues raised while Brand worked on BBC radio programmes between 2006 and 2008. In 2020, the same woman contacted contacted Brands literary agent at the time, who was also the co-founder of talent agency Tavistock Wood. A spokesman for the agency said Brand categorically and vehemently denied the allegations at the time but they now believe they were horribly misled and have terminated all professional ties with the comedian. Advertisement Another woman has said she was raped against a wall at Brands home in Los Angeles. Channel 4 announced it is carrying out its own internal investigation following the allegations and the broadcaster has removed content featuring Brand from its streaming service while it looks into the claims. We will be writing to all our current suppliers reminding them of their responsibilities under our Code of Conduct, as we are committed to ensuring our industry has safe, inclusive and professional working environments, a Channel 4 statement added. We are basically acting like pimps to Russell Brands needs. Serious allegations about Brands behaviour in the workplace have been uncovered. Several women share their shocking stories with @C4Dispatches and @thetimes. #C4Dispatches Brand denies all allegations. pic.twitter.com/r2nvA3mYjM Channel 4 Dispatches (@C4Dispatches) September 17, 2023 It comes after Brand was accused of pursuing audience members for sex while presenting Big Brother spin-off shows EFourum and Big Brothers Big Mouth on Channel 4. A researcher claimed concerns about Brands behaviour were reported to production managers at Endemol, the company commissioned by Channel 4 to produce the programmes in 2004 and 2005, but were dismissed. Banijay UK, which bought Endemol in 2020, later announced it has launched an urgent internal investigation and encouraged anybody who feels that they were affected by Brands behaviour to come forward. Advertisement The Metropolitan Police said they will speak to The Sunday Times and Channel 4 to ensure any victims of crime who they have spoken with are aware of how they may report any criminal allegations to police. A spokesman for the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) told the PA news agency they do not have an open investigation into Brand, and another confirmed there have been no arrests following two allegations concerning claims that are said to have happened in the US. Meanwhile, questions are now being asked about whether TV chiefs were aware of any concerns about Brands behaviour while working on their programmes. Caroline Dineage, chairwoman of the UK Commons Culture, Media, and Sport Committee, told Times Radio there may be a full-on inquiry into the culture of open secrets in the TV industry and behaviour of media giants. She said TV executives could be invited to give evidence in front of the select committee, adding: Were going to be writing to the TV companies and asking them to set out the process for the inquiries that theyre making, and we need a kind of sense of timelines on this. But were not ruling out inviting them in to give evidence to the select committee if we dont feel that were getting a satisfactory response. Advertisement This is happening pic.twitter.com/N8zIKLbJN2 Russell Brand (@rustyrockets) September 15, 2023 In a video statement posted online ahead of the publication of the claims, Brand said he was facing a litany of extremely egregious and aggressive attacks. Amidst this litany of astonishing, rather baroque attacks are some very serious allegations that I absolutely refute, he said. As Dispatches aired on Saturday evening, Brand performed a sold-out comedy gig at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre in north-west London as part of his Russell Brand Bipolarisation tour. He is scheduled to perform at three more venues in September, including a show at the Theatre Royal in Windsor on Tuesday, The Pavilions in Plymouth on Friday, and The Civic At The Halls in Wolverhampton next Thursday. South Korea's top nuclear envoy met with a senior U.S. State Department official Monday to discuss the recent summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Seoul's foreign ministry said. Kim Gunn, special representative for Korean Peninsula peace and security affairs, and Brett Holmgren, assistant secretary of state for Intelligence and Research, exchanged views on the motives behind the North's provocations and future prospects, according to the ministry. Holmgren shared Washington's assessment of the recent summit and the growing military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow, and also agreed to closely cooperate with Seoul on the security situation on the Korean Peninsula. The meeting, held in Seoul, comes as last week's rare summit has raised concerns over potential arms deals between the two increasingly isolated countries. (Yonhap) Six Ukrainian deputy defence ministers have been fired following the dismissal two weeks ago of Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov in a corruption scandal. Deputy defence ministers including Hanna Maliar, Vitalii Deyneha and Denys Sharapov, as well as the state secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Kostiantyn Vashchenko, were fired, according to the Telegram account of Taras Melnychuk, permanent representative of the Cabinet of Ministers. Advertisement Mr Melnychuk provided no explanation of the sacking but the government has been investigating accusations of corruption in the military related to purchasing equipment. Rustem Umerov, a Crimean Tatar lawmaker who took over as defence minister, did not immediately issue a statement. A Ukrainian serviceman walks through trees near the frontline (Alex Babenko/AP) Advertisement Mr Reznikov was removed earlier this month after a scandal involving the defence ministrys procurement of military jackets at three times their cost. He denied the allegations but resigned. Advertisement The reshuffling of the department came a day after Ukraines military said it captured the village of Klishchiivka from Russian troops after months of fierce battles. Fighting continued on Monday as troops tried to hold the village south of the Russian-held city of Bakhmut in the eastern Donetsk region. Its recapture followed the retaking of the nearby village of Andriivka. Advertisement The enemy is trying with all his might to regain lost positions, Ms Maliar said in a briefing on Monday before she was fired. Therefore, our fighters hold back the enemys attacks there and are entrenched at the achieved frontiers. Retaking Klishchiivka is considered tactically important, allowing Ukrainian forces to further extend their gains around Bakhmut. Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine 18 September 2023. Find out more about Defence Intelligence's use of language: https://t.co/emfF1MWOY2 #StandWithUkraine pic.twitter.com/EMTbFlhR2O Advertisement Ministry of Defence (@DefenceHQ) September 18, 2023 In other fighting, six civilians were killed and 16 injured over the past 24 hours, the presidential office reported. Advertisement Russians attacked residential areas in eight cities and villages in the Donetsk region, including Avdiivka and Kurdiumivka, killing one and wounding four. Five artillery attacks in Kherson killed one person and wounded another. In the nearby town of Beryslav, Russians dropped explosives from a drone near the local bus station, injuring four people, the presidential office said. Advertisement The Ukrainian air force said it intercepted all 17 cruise missiles launched by Russia and 18 of 24 Shaded drones in the southern regions of Mykolaiv and Odesa early on Monday morning. Oleh Kiper, regional governor of Odesa, said a recreational facility in the town of Vylkovo was damaged in the attack but no casualties were reported. Vylkovo, often referred to as the Ukrainian Venice because of its numerous canals, is located in the Danube delta on the border with Romania. In his efforts to draw more support, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is heading to the US where he is expected at the White House and on Capitol Hill this week during the United Nations General Assembly. His visit to Washington comes as Congress debates President Joe Bidens request to provide as much as 24 billion dollars (19 billion) in military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine. One supporter in Congress, Senator Mark Kelly, a Democrat from Arizona, met Ukraine officials and soldiers on Monday in Kyiv to assess the militarys current needs and discuss ATACMS tactical ballistic missiles, which Mr Biden is considering providing. No single capability is going to make the difference between winning and losing, said Mr Kelly, who praised forces for progress, though he said he wished it would move faster. The trial of five Israelis accused of gang raping a British woman in a Cypriot hotel room is due to take place next month. Police said the trial will begin on October 5 when the accused will enter pleas to charges including rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment and abduction. Advertisement Defence lawyers objected to a prosecution request for the suspects to remain in custody until then. A Famagusta District Court judge is to rule on Tuesday on whether to keep the suspects in detention or release them. Yannis Habaris, a lawyer representing three of the suspects, said there are many contradictory points which undermine the veracity of the claims in the alleged victims statement to police. A police van carrying the five Israelis travels to the courthouse (Petros Karadjias/AP) Advertisement Mr Habaris said his clients will plead not guilty to the charges because as things now stand, we dont think that any crime has been committed. Advertisement Lawyers representing the other two suspects did not immediately respond to requests for comment. A police investigator said last week that the 20-year-old British woman picked the five Israelis three aged 19 and two aged 20 out of a line-up as having raped her during a hotel pool party in the coastal resort town of Ayia Napa. The woman told police that one of the five men had forcibly taken her to his room after grabbing her hand while she was partying with friends around the pool on September 3. Advertisement She said the man tried to remove her bathing suit while she pleaded with him to let her leave. The other suspects then entered the room and was was raped. She said she managed to lock herself in the bathroom and began shouting for help. She was able to flee the room by pushing the suspects aside and rejoined her friends, who went with her to report the incident to police, she said. Ayia Napa is popular among young tourists from across Europe who enjoy its nightclubs, bars, white-sand beaches and lively nightlife. Meanwhile, in a resurfaced Vogue interview from 2013, Brands ex-wife Katy Perry described his behaviour as very controlling, alluding to what she described as a real truth about Brand that she would not disclose. I felt a lot of responsibility for it ending, but then I found out the real truth, which I cant necessarily disclose because I keep it locked in my safe for a rainy day, said Perry. Russell Brand and Katy Perry were married for 14 months before divorcing in 2011. Before rebranding as an online wellness influencer, Brand was known as a sexually charged comedian famous for pushing boundaries. In a 2012 interview with Liz Hayes for 60 Minutes, Brand grabbed Hayes and kissed her before making a joke about unhooking her bra. Hayes addressed the moment in a 2021 retrospective on her career, saying, When you interview Russell Brand you dont really know whos going to show up. Seasoned as I am as a journalist, I am prepared for all events and all kinds of people. Loading And when Russell Brand decided he would like to kiss me, well, you size up the situation. You think, Mmm-hmm. Am I in danger? What could go wrong? Brands reputation was a point of discussion in Channel 4s Dispatches documentary, with producers confirming that comedians who worked in the industry at the same time as Brand were contacted, but only one was willing to speak on camera. Scottish comedian Daniel Sloss told Dispatches that women would warn each other via WhatsApp groups about Russell Brand, and his behaviour was openly discussed in the industry. He said: For many, many years, women have been warning each other about Russell. There were many stories, it wasnt just coming from one person or one group of people, it was different incidents and of varying degrees of severity. Im stood in artist bars, with agents, promoters, channel commissioners, and Im hearing these allegations, and these rumours, about Russell in the same room as these people are in. Meanwhile, Australian comedian Adam Hills, who hosts the UK chat show The Last Leg (which Brand has appeared on several times), took to social media to pledge his support for those who have come forward. Ive nothing but respect for the people who told that story both on TV and in the press. It took bravery and diligence. They deserve to be heard, wrote Hills. The accusations against Brand, despite being unproven, have triggered significant backlash. He has been dumped by his management and Trevi Women, a womens charity based in the UK, also announced that it has ended its relationship with the comedian and his organisation, the Stay Free Foundation, which aims to help people dealing with addiction issues. Loading However, the comedian has found support in some corners, with X (formerly Twitter) founder Elon Musk taking to the platform to declare, I support Russell Brand. That man is not evil. Also joining the chorus of support for Brand is right-wing conspiracy theorist Alex Jones who defended Russell Brand from rape and sexual assault allegations by saying the comedian is being targeted because hes come out against globalists. In a video circulated on social media on Sunday, Jones claimed to have been friends with Brand for six years. Ive never seen women throw themselves at anyone like with him, Jones said, comparing women throwing their panties at Elvis. Its like that, he said, adding that it was literally women jumping at us. Brand has amassed a large following on social media 3.8 million accounts on Instagram, 2.2 million on TikTok and 6.6 million on YouTube. His content often features interviews with far-right influencers and promotes conspiracy theories on issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine and the climate crisis. Videos he has posted in recent weeks include titles such as What REALLY started the Hawaii fire?, State of fear! Covid propaganda exposed! and Zelenskys MASSIVE Ukraine censorship EXPOSED. In a video posted to his own social media channels, the comedian and media personality has denied all the very serious allegations aimed at him, while also questioning whether his attacks on mainstream media were to blame. Ive received two extremely disturbing letters or a letter and an email. One from a mainstream media TV company, one from a newspaper listing a litany of extremely egregious and aggressive attacks, as well as some pretty stupid stuff like my community festival should be stopped, that I shouldnt be able to attack mainstream media narratives on this channel, he claimed in the video. Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. You can get a decent flat white in Toorak. But until Yuca opened on Friday, September 15, there was a dearth of specialty next-wave coffee in the affluent inner-eastern enclave. Yuca is at the top of Toorak Village in the cluster of 1930s mock-Tudor shops that once housed society hairdresser Lillian Frank. The 45-seat cafe is the third from the young Hospokendra group, which also has Dumbo in West Footscray and Sani in Brunswick East. We werent thinking of opening on this side of town, says director Raju Ghimire, who came to Australia from Nepal in 2007, initially as a cookery student. But we really liked the building, and then I walked around the neighbourhood and thought there was a place for something different. Theres a lot we can do here in terms of the culture of coffee and brunch. The team oversaw the renovation, combining two tenancies in a flowing earth-toned space decked with terrazzo, Tasmanian oak and brass accents. Mo Zhou is the accomplished chef of Gaea, a tiny Fitzroy fine diner. Alicia Feng is the coffee shepherd at Calere, the even smaller Gaea offshoot. Kantaro Okada is the originator of West Melbournes rice ball-focused 279 cafe and Carlton sake bar Leonie Upstairs. The modern split-level space that used to house contemporary restaurant Congress is now Chiaki, a calm Japanese cafe by day and quirky izakaya by night. Its owned by three of Melbournes most interesting food identities, each of them bringing expertise and enthusiasm to this excellent new destination. Chiaki reflects each participants backgrounds and obsessions. Zhou and Feng are from China central Henan and tropical Hainan respectively; Okada grew up in New Zealand and then ran a cafe in Japan. Their food and drink passions bloomed in Melbourne and this fun collaboration feels like it could only happen here. You couldnt say Melbourne needed another coffee place, but Chiaki does bring something different to our cafe scene. Every flat white is made with attentive zeal and the two-page specialty coffee menu goes deep. If youre keen, you can spend $28 on a cup of rare coffee from the Panamanian highlands brewed by a robotic Taiwanese drip machine: look out for notes of bergamot and purple grape. The key food is ochazuke: cooked rice bathed in broth and served with various toppings salted plum, say, or wagyu tataki. Chiakis broth is an umami hug, not overpowering but layered and deep, a complex infusion of dashi, jamon, barbecued sardines, fish stock and chicken stock, cooked in various combinations before mixing. Slow-cooked ox tongue. Eddie Jim You cant book during the day but reservations are possible at night. Secure a spot for sake and cocktails that use it. Theres still ochazuke but most of the menu riffs on izakaya bites. Crushed, creamy Japanese potato salad is served with jalapenos, olives, prawn mayonnaise and a shoyu-cured egg for DIY smushing. Its exquisite comfort food. Doha/New York: A US-bound plane carrying five Americans freed by Iran left Doha on Monday as part of a prisoner swap for five Iranians held in the United States and the transfer of $US6 billion in Iranian funds, marking a rare deal between the long-time antagonists. Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home, US President Joe Biden said in a statement shortly before the US detainees descended the stairs of a Qatari jet in Doha to be embraced by US diplomats. From left, Emad Sharghi, Morad Tahbaz and Siamak Namazi, former prisoners in Iran, walk out of a Qatar Airways flight in Qatar. Credit: AP The White House confirmed a plane carrying the five, along with two US family members who left Tehran with them earlier, was en route to the United States, where they were to be offered medical treatment by the US military as they adjust to freedom. Separately, Irans state-owned Press TV said the five Iranians held by the United States and charged with committing crimes had been freed, an apparent reference to their being granted clemency, and that two of them had landed in Tehran. Latest News Mortgage interest charges up 68.6% Employee living expenses are twice the rate of inflation Broker of the year shares secrets of success He plans to empower next generation of brokers The recent passage of the $10 billion Housing Australia Future Fund (HAFF) marks a significant step in the government's housing strategy. However, as the housing crisis deepens, doubts persist about the feasibility of building over 1.2 million homes in five years. Industry leaders question whether this ambitious goal is attainable or merely a political pipe dream. According to experts Simon Pressley (pictured above centre) and Bianca Patterson (pictured above left), the current market challenges and poor policy decisions of the past has left the 1.2 million target unattainable. Its unrealistic and will put further strain on the building industry, with many companies already on the brink of collapse, said Patterson, director and finance specialist at Perth brokerage Calculated Lending. The 1.2 million is just a wish. Governments will not be building or funding those properties. However, many new properties get added to Australias housing pool will be determined by the actions of everyday Aussies, said Pressley, head of research at buyers agency Propertyology. Whats the plan? Amid a cost-of-living crisis, rising rents, and increased migration, the government has developed a 10-year National Housing and Homelessness Plan in collaboration with state and territory governments to improve access to safe and affordable housing. The plan comprises the HAFF, set to create 30,000 new social and affordable homes in its initial five years, and the Housing Accord, with the promise of delivering one million well-located homes between 2023 and 2028. However, the latter was revised in August to 1.2 million homes between 2024 and 2029 as conditions worsened. To meet this target, an average of 240,000 net new homes will need to be constructed every year in the five-year period. However, a forecast from the construction industrys peak industry body Master Builders Australia showed that only 209,000 new houses are to be built per year between 2022/23 and 2027/28. Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn (pictured above right) said the building and construction industry was the canary in the economic coal mine, with only 170,100 homes to be built in 2023/24 well below what was needed to hit the target. This prediction also depends on favourable macroeconomic conditions, including accelerated construction speeds, supply chain improvements by 2026, and the cessation of new workplace reforms proposed by the government. Australias economy is navigating a challenging period, Wawn said. There is no denying millions of Australians and business owners are feeling the mounting pressure of rising costs of living. From social and community housing, rental properties to owner-occupiers, the common constraint is supply. In good news, the projected volume of new starts over the five-year period up to 2027-28 exceeds the one million home target under the Housing Accord but only just. There is still a lot of work that needs to be done to achieve the revised target of 1.2 million homes as announced by National Cabinet last month. A poor track record of construction and policy Another reason to doubt the governments plan is to look at the track record of the government and construction industry. In the decade between 2006-2016, only 1.47 new million homes were constructed, according to ABS data. Patterson said the expectation to build a similar number in half the time would be a disaster, considering the current conditions. We simply do not have the labour force we need to build these houses in the timeframe, Patterson said. Immigration of workers is the obvious solution; however, we dont have adequate housing supply for our current population, so further immigration required across many sectors will put housing at a critically low supply. Patterson also pointed to the governments Homebuilder grants policy, which had left many unable to get confirmation on when their builds would be completed even three years on from the pandemic. These grants were an optimistic, poorly thought through incentive that many attribute for the collapse of reputable and experienced building companies over the last year, Patterson said. Ambitious build targets now, which will likely require some form of incentive from the government risk further damage to the industry and businesses. y concern is that the additional pressure on the building industry with flow through to brokers and lenders, much as they did through COVID. Patterson said she hoped that this time the government would consult the industry to consider the challenges their targets and incentives would present for customers, mortgage brokers and lenders. A considered and well-rounded solution needs to be consulted on and devised, rather than just rushing to push more money out into the economy over a very short period to appear like they are making an effort to solve a problem they significantly contributed to. Why the private sector will need to pave the way (again) While others look to the building industry as the harbinger of change, Pressley said the biggest problems for housing in Australia had very little to do with construction. Nothing gets built unless someone within the private sector navigates their way through the various layers of policies, taxes and government inefficiencies, Pressley said. There are multiple layers to supply. Politicians and policy writers constantly fail to realise that people do not spend their lives living in the same home. As their income, age, and family structure change, they move multiple times. And the housing needs of an overwhelming majority are met from a specific established property. Pressley said Australias housing system was locked-up by a series of poor policy settings. Our two biggest problems are mobility restraints in the resale market and dangerously unsupportive attitudes towards the rental supplier, he said. A society that regards investor as a dirty word is a society in desperate need of addressing its core values. If Australias population was frozen today, Pressley points out that the rental pool would need to instantly increase by more than 300,000 properties to reach a balanced rental market. And that figure increases by 70,000 per year. Everyday Aussie investors are the only segment of society who is capable of increasing the size of the rental pool in a meaningful way. Theyve already funded more than 3 million out of the 3.3 million rental homes in this country. A little-known fact is over the last 30-years, federal and state governments have collectively reduced their contribution from 400,000 properties in 1990 to 300,000 in 2020. Only a fool would say that governments have ever made a positive contribution to housing supply for decades. However, it is not all doom and gloom, according to Wawn. There are good reasons for believing we are overcoming the worst of the challenges as long as government policies do not hamstring these efforts. What do you think of the governments housing plan? Comment below. Latest News Mortgage interest charges up 68.6% Employee living expenses are twice the rate of inflation Broker of the year shares secrets of success He plans to empower next generation of brokers Moula has been empowering Australian businesses to thrive and grow for 10 years now, by providing hardworking business owners access to capital since its inception in 2013. With a decade of success now under its belt, just how does Moula see itself in the future? Over the years, we have grown to serve a broad segment of the market, empowering SMEs to seize growth opportunities, expand operations, and navigate challenging economic landscapes, said Sam Sfeir, head of sales. Drivers of Moulas success Contributing to the SME lenders success is its use of banking and accounting data APIs for underwriting to supercharge the loan approval process, allowing loans to be approved the same day in some instances, or within 24 hours. Sfeir said Moulas Intelligent Decisioning Engine, HECTOR, enables the company to support brokers and their customers and adapt to the market quickly. It utilises cloud accounting, banking data, and machine learning, to expedite decision-making, providing faster outcomes for brokers and their clients. Another driver of Moulas success is its extensive network of partners across the finance and technology ecosystems. We are proud members of the lending panels of various aggregators and actively participate in industry and broker events and PD days to maintain strong broker relationships and advocate for industry regulation, Sfeir said. Moula also has an experienced and dedicated team of BDMs that actively engages in the marketplace, positioning the lender as a go-to resource for brokers. The non-bank also enables brokers to diversify into commercial finance by providing them with a suite of educational materials and tools. Focus for the future As a fintech leader, the company remains committed to pushing the boundaries of technology, enabling even faster, more seamless financial solutions for SMEs, Sfeir said. Innovation drives us across all focus areas. We push the boundaries of technology to deliver groundbreaking products and services, catering to the evolving needs of our customers and partners, the Moula sales head said. Sfeir also emphasised that, as a company that has established itself as a robust and credible alternative to traditional mainstream banking, Moula believes business financing shouldnt be difficult or time-consuming. Get the hottest and freshest mortgage news delivered right into your inbox. Subscribe now to our FREE daily newsletter. Looking for one-of-a-kind jewellery pieces that tell a story? Aside from the talented jewellery designers in Malaysia, were constantly looking to our neighbours in Singapore for inspiration. If you know the Lion City well, you would know that its one of the top in terms of wealth and development. The country is the eighth richest in the world and the richest country in Asia. Of course, their demand and standards when it comes to jewellery is equally high, which is why you can definitely look forward to the brands that weve included in this list. No matter classic designs or custom-made pieces for special occasions, youll be able to find the right one here. From old and modern to a mix of both, this list walks you through some of the best and most unique jewellery created by Singaporean jewellers. On Cheong Jewellery View this post on Instagram A post shared by On Cheong Jewellery (@oncheongjewellery1936) An established jeweller since 1936, the brand is one of the most prestigious jewellery retailers in the country, known for its craftsmanship. On Cheong Jewellery is beloved for elegant gold and jade masterpieces that are made as heirlooms and a top pick for Chinese weddings. The brand also creates custom pieces for its clients, staying true to its motto when it comes to creating jewelleryCrafted by time, Cherished for generations. SHOP HERE Far East Gems and Jewellery View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kunming Tay (@fareastgemsjewellery) Founded in 1991, Far East Gem & Jewellery takes pride in being Singapores top supplier for top-notch, natural gemstones. The brand sources gemstones all around Asia-Pacific, in countries like Australia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and many more bringing in only the best of the best. This jeweller is a go-to for engagement rings, wedding bands and those who are looking for bling to tie a bond. SHOP HERE The Kings Bespoke View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Kings Bespoke (@thekingsbespoke) Want to design your own jewellery? The Kings Bespoke is where you can do it. This jeweller provides an extensive range of high-quality gems for customers to pick and create their very own jewellery. Youll get to design your one-of-a-kind piece from scratch, giving it individuality and an unforgettable memory forevermore. SHOP HERE Poh Heng View this post on Instagram A post shared by Poh Heng Jewellery (@pohhengjewelleryofficial) Poh Heng was founded in 1936 by 16-year-old Chng Tok Ngam, who built his brand from the ground up. The brand flaunts both its decades-long craftsmanship and forward-looking vision, collaborating with artisans from all over the world. This jeweller is a big name when it comes to Chinese betrothal gifts with its great quality gold, but also takes pride in its sourced diamonds as only the top 5 per cent of the stones make the cut. SHOP HERE Flower Diamond View this post on Instagram A post shared by Flower Diamond Boutique (@flower.diamond) Offering fine jewellery made for women, Flower Diamond is created to pamper the ladies with all the finer things in life. The brand also offers design consultation and conception to guide you along your way of creating a distinctive piece of jewellery. You can even bring your old jewellery along to give it a new breath of life with a refreshed look. SHOP HERE Empire Treasures View this post on Instagram A post shared by Empire Treasures (@empiretreasuresofficial) A brand that crafts exquisite jewellery with high-quality Burmese gemsthis brand offers the perfect statement pieces for special occasions. Empire Treasures uses the highest level of expertise, from gemstone sourcers and jewellery designers to craftsmen, to ensure that each piece of jewellery is carefully crafted to reach its highest potential. SHOP HERE For more jewellery reads, click here. The CBI has conducted searches at four locations in Mumbai after registering an FIR against Unity Infraprojects Ltd, its then CMD Kishore Krishnarao Avarsekar and others for allegedly defrauding a consortium of banks to the tune of Rs 3,847.58 crore, officials said on Monday. The CBI took action on a complaint of the SBI, one of the consortium members which alleged that the fraud took place at its Commercial Branch in Mumbai where the accused persons siphoned the "Bank's funds by doing fictitious transactions, manipulated and fudged books of accounts with an objective to defraud and cheat the bank and to gain unlawfully at the cost of the Bank's funds". The officials said searches were conducted recently at the premises of the accused. The account of the 44-year-old infrastructure company, which had taken over Rs 3,800 crore from 23 lenders against moveable and non-moveable assets besides personal and corporate guarantees, had become a non-performing asset on June 24, 2014. Five years later, it was declared a fraud after forensic audit pointed irregularities. The bank alleged that the fraud came to light in a forensic audit conducted by BDO India LLP, which submitted its report on September 25, 2019. The report found fictitious transactions, improper adjustment entries passed to accommodate fictitious accounting entries to defraud the bank by fudging the data, and diversion of funds through non-consortium accounts, among others. It also cited unexplained excess pay-outs with intentions to siphon off bank funds and related party transactions to divert borrowed fund. The agency has registered the case against the company, former chairman and former directors and executives under IPC sections of criminal conspiracy (120B), cheating (420) and provisions of Prevention of Corruption Act. Also Read Financial frauds in India rose 65% between 2021 and 2022: Finance Ministry Need to upgrade brokers' skills for better real estate services: FICCI-JLL UPI-related scams account for 55% of total digital payments frauds in India Govt considering registration of flats even if developers go bankrupt Residential real estate sales to grow by 8-10% in FY22-23: CRISIL study Mumbai airport records 32% increase in passenger traffic in August Adani-Hindenburg row: Plea seeks new SC panel with no conflicts of interest Disney India's streaming, TV biz sale talks draw firms including Reliance Entry-level bike buyers unlikely to return soon, says Bajaj Auto MD Apollo Hospitals ties up with MotoGP Bharat to provide medical support A Korean Tactical Surface-to-Surface Missile striking a target during a test launch at an undisclosed location is seen in this undated file photo provided by the defense ministry. Yonhap South Korea will invest about 290 billion won ($218 million) to develop an improved version of a homegrown bunker-buster missile capable of striking underground enemy targets, the state arms procurement agency said Monday. The project comes as South Korea's military has been seeking to reinforce its deterrence capabilities against North Korea's evolving missile and nuclear threats. The improved Korean Tactical Surface-to-Surface Missile-II will be operated on a mobile launcher, and will enhance the military's precision strike capabilities against targets hidden inside tunnels and bunkers, according to the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA). A DAPA official said the new missile is designed to mainly target North Korean weapons systems stationed underground, such as its long-range artillery pieces inside tunnels. In 2010, North Korea's coastal artillery shelled South Korea's Yeonpyeong Island near the western sea border from its underground tunnels. The provocation, which killed two marines and two civilians, prompted South Korea to develop its existing missile system. The new bunker-buster missile will also have increased range and penetration capabilities, compared with the current system that has a range of up to 180 kilometers. DAPA did not provide details on the new weapon's specifications, but it is expected to have a range of over 300 km. Still, the DAPA official declined to provide details on the penetration capabilities of both the existing and new systems, citing operational security. The state-run Agency for Defense Development will oversee the project, which is set to run through the end of 2027, with major defense companies taking part in producing prototype models. (Yonhap) Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi, on Monday, the last day of proceedings in the old Parliament building, recalled crucial junctures in Indias democratic history that the building was witness to: from Jawaharlal Nehrus tryst with destiny speech on August 15, 1947, to the economic reforms that the P V Narasimha Rao government initiated in 1991, and to the repealing of Article 370 on August 5, 2019. Initiating the discussion in the Lok Sabha (LS) on the 75 years of parliamentary journey, from the Constituent Assembly to now, the PM peppered his speech with historical decisions. These included the creation of three new states, Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand in 2000, the victory in the Bangladesh war under Indira Gandhis leadership, as well as unsavoury incidents such as the cash-for-votes scandal in 2008 or the proclamation of Emergency. The PM thanked the House for its unanimous congratulatory resolution for India hosting the Group of Twenty Summit, recalling how the House had passed a unanimous resolution for the country hosting the Non-Aligned Movement Summit in 1983. The day-long discussion in the two Houses had Members of Parliament (MPs) from all parties indulging in political point-scoring, especially the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and YSR Congress Party, over the arrest of TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu. MPs also flagged the need to reform parliamentary procedures, suggesting it should sit for a minimum of a 100 or more days or increase the LS seats. The two Houses will meet on Tuesday in the new Parliament building on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. MPs have been asked to gather at the old building for a group photo session and then attend a function at the Central Hall of the old building. Vice President and Rajya Sabha (RS) Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar, the PM, and LS Speaker Om Birla will lead the event, which will resolve to make Bharat a developed nation by 2047. The LS will sit from 1.15 pm onwards, while the RS will convene from 2.15 pm onwards. In his hour-long speech on Monday, the PM spoke of Atal Bihari Vajpayees resignation speech in 1996 and his initiation of the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and the establishment of a separate tribal affairs ministry. He also credited P V Narasimha Rao and Manmohan Singh with economic reforms that put India on a new development path. He spoke of the contribution of a host of political leaders from all ideological hues, such as Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Lal Bahadur Shastri, Chaudhary Charan Singh, Ram Manohar Lohia, Lal Krishna Advani, and others, including Communist Party of Indias Indrajit Gupta, who spent 43 years as a member, the longest by any MP. Also Read Chandrababu Naidu arrested: Understanding the skill development scam Uncertain future for TDP G20 Summit 2023: Here is what the New Delhi Leaders' Declaration states G20 Summit: Global Biofuel Alliance & other initiatives launched by India Opposition bloc INDIA reaches out to TDP as BJP hedges its Andhra bet Contribution of women parliamentarians on the rise: PM Modi in LS PM Modi chairs meeting of union cabinet in Parliament House Annexe Vice President Dhankhar, PM Modi to lead Central Hall function Tuesday Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha to meet in new Parliament building on Tuesday Bill on EC appointments may not be taken up in this session: Report Amid a demand from across the political spectrum for the Womens Reservation Bill, the PM said the contribution of women parliamentarians has been on the rise over the years. In his over an hour-long speech in the LS, Modi remembered the journey of Indias democracy and said the last day in this heritage building should be dedicated to the over 7,500 parliamentarians who contributed to proceedings in the building. Be it Dalits, the oppressed, Adivasis, Other Backward Classes, or women, every sections contribution has increased gradually, Modi said, remarking that of the 7,500 public representatives, the number of women representatives has been approximately 600. The PM paid tribute to every brick of the old Parliament building and said the MPs would enter the new building with new hope and confidence. Today, we have an opportunity to connect with the past. We are leaving this building with hope for the future. I am confident that as we enter the new Parliament building, we will go there with new hope and confidence, the PM said. He said the old building will also inspire generations to come. Leader of the Opposition in RS, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said nothing would be accomplished by changing names and went on to recall how the first PM Jawaharlal Nehrus inclusive approach of involving Opposition parties had led to the laying of a strong foundation for the Constitution. Trinamool Congress MP Derek OBrien criticised the government for eroding parliamentary democracy and federalism, pointing out the outstanding dues of the state governments. He also complained that he was not allowed to complete his speech. The five-day special session of the Parliament will kick off today. The tentative agenda of the session was announced last week by the government. It includes legislation at various stages of the discussion already in the Parliament. Parliament special session: When was it announced On August 31, the Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi announced that a special session will be held from September 18 to 22. He said that "important items" were on the agenda. Who decides when the Parliament will meet? The Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs takes the decision on when to hold a session. Currently, the committee has ten ministers. These include those for Defence, Home, Finance, Agriculture, Tribal Affairs, Parliamentary Affairs, and Information & Broadcasting. Some special invitees to the session include the law minister and the Minister of State for External Affairs. The members of the Parliament are summoned by the President to meet for the session. What does the Constitution say about the Parliament's sessions? According to the Constitution of India, two sessions must be held within a year. It was originally taken from the Government of India Act, of 1935 and the gap was later reduced to six months by the Constituent Assembly. What is a special session of the Parliament? This is a session which is convened for specific occasions. However, the Constitution does not mention the "special session". Only once, in the provisions for emergency in Article 352, the Constitution refers to a "special sitting of the House". Special session and the new Parliament The main highlight of the session will be that it will be the first one to be held in the new building of the Parliament. The Centre will likely hold the session from September 19 in the new building. On Sunday, Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar hoisted the national flag at the "Gaja Dwar" of the new Parliament building. Agenda of the special session of Parliament Centre has listed a special discussion on Parliament's 75-year journey, starting from the Samvidhan Sabha that first met on December 9, 1946, on the first day of the special session. Also Read New Parliamentary building explained: Costs, construction, design & more New parliament building: PM releases commemorative postal stamps and coins New Parliament building LIVE updates: Phase II of inaugural event begins Opposition's no-confidence motion defeated in Lok Sabha by voice vote K Kavitha to contest for Nizamabad Lok Sabha constituency against D Arvind Five-day special session of Parliament set to begin today in new building Army, police resume operations against terrorists in J-K's Anantnag LIVE: Congress leaders call for delaying seat-sharing talks with INDIA bloc Five held in Manipur for carrying weapons donning camouflage uniforms Fitting tribute to our first Nobel laureate: EAM on tag for Santiniketan A discussion on "Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha - Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings" will be held in Parliament on the first day of the five-sitting long special session. Four bills, including a Bill to regulate the appointment, conditions of service, and term of office of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners, are part of the government's legislative business for the session. Apart from the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, introduced in Rajya Sabha during the Monsoon session on August 10, the list includes "The Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2023" and "The Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023", already passed by Rajya Sabha on August 3, 2023. The Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2023, amends the Advocates Act, of 1961, while the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023 repeals the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867. "The Post Office Bill, 2023" has also been listed in the Lok Sabha business. The bill was earlier introduced in Rajya Sabha on August 10, 2023, and it repeals the Indian Post Office Act, 1898. The bill on the election commissioner deals with the procedure for the transaction of business by the Election Commission. Besides, it proposes that the President will appoint the Election Commissioners on the recommendation of a panel comprising the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, and a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister will chair the panel. The bill, if it comes into effect, will negate the Supreme Court's March 2023 judgement that held that the appointment of Election Commissioners will be done by the President on the advice of a panel comprising the Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition, and the Chief Justice of India. However, in its judgement, the apex court had held that the procedure underlined by it would hold until Parliament enacted a law. Special session of Parliament: All party meeting convened on Sunday Usually, ahead of a Parliamentary session, the Centre convenes an all-party meeting to discuss the agenda. The meeting for the special session took place on Sunday at the Parliament Library. The Cabinet and the members of the Opposition attended it. These included former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief Vaiko, Tiruchi N Siva and Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader V Sivadasan. (With agency inputs) First Published: Sep 18 2023 | 10:58 AM IST These are personal views of the writer. They do not necessarily reflect the opinion of www.business-standard.com or the Business Standard newspaper The unfinished job of farm mechanisation On trade, Delhi G20 improves over the Bali declaration Why India should remain in the BRICS If China wants to play 'spoiler', that option is available to them: US NSA Opposition's no-confidence motion defeated in Lok Sabha by voice vote G20 Summit 2023: Key takeaways from US President Joe Biden's India visit 3-layered security, army snipers: Delhi is ready for Joe Biden's G20 visit Biden falls onstage at graduation ceremony; White House says he's 'fine' Despite repeated requests from officials of the Biden administration, the US president was not US President Joe Biden held a press conference in Hanoi clarifying that in his personal meeting with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi, he had raised concerns about respecting human rights, the role of civil society and freedom of the press. The admission could signal a change in US perception of the policies and persona of the Indian prime minister and his regime. 5 min read Last Updated : Sep 18 2023 | 10:58 AM IST To read the full story, subscribe to BS Premium now, at just Rs 249/ month. Key stories on business-standard.com are available only to BS Premium subscribers. Register to read more on Business-Standard.com Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called on Elon Musk, the head of electric carmaker Tesla, to establish a factory in Turkiye during a meeting in New York, Erdogan's office said on Monday. Erdogan, who is in the US to attend the UN General Assembly, also discussed potential cooperation between Musk's space exploration firm SpaceX and Turkiye's space programme, the Turkish president's office said. The statement said Erdogan told Musk that Turkiye would welcome cooperation on artificial intelligence and Starlink, SpaceX's satellite internet service. Musk said SpaceX wanted to secure the necessary license to offer Starlink in Turkiye. Images of the meeting showed Musk holding one of his sons as he talked to Erdogan. Turkish Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacir, who attended the meeting, said Musk described Turkiye as among the most important candidates for Tesla investment. He added that Musk and Erdogan also discussed Turkiye's armed aerial drone programme. Malaysia will talk to the Indian government to find a "best solution" over the South Asian country's rice export restrictions, Malaysia's agriculture and food security minister Mohamad Sabu said on Monday. State-run Malaysian rice importer Bernas will also be negotiating with other suppliers like Vietnam, Thailand And Cambodia, he said. (Reporting by Rozanna Latiff) Saudi Arabia is in early talks with US electric automaker Tesla to set up a manufacturing facility in the kingdom, the Wall Street Journal reported on Monday. The report comes just hours after Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan asked Tesla CEO Elon Musk to build a vehicle factory in Turkey, according to the countrys communications directorate. Musk is also set to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in California on Monday. Saudi Arabia has been wooing Tesla with the right to purchase certain quantities of metals and minerals the company needs for its EVs from countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo. The kingdom has been trying to shift its economy away from oil, while its sovereign wealth fund is the majority investor in Lucid Group, one of the EV startups looking to challenge Tesla. One of the proposals the kingdom is considering involves extending financing to commodities trader Trafigura for a flailing Congo cobalt and copper project, which could help provide a Tesla factory with supplies. Gazpromneft-Lubricants and Enso Global Trading, one of the world's leading trading companies, signed a strategic cooperation agreement to broaden the distribution of lubricant assets across the South Asian region. The partnership provides for regular supplies of base, motor, hydraulic and gearbox oils for sale in the actively developing Indian market. Enso Oils & Lubricants, a leading subsidiary of Enso Group, will specialize in the importation and distribution of Gazpromneft-Lubricants' high-quality oils, lubricants, and technical fluids that cater to a wide array of industries. Vinay Maloo, Chairman, Enso Group said, Enso is proud to be the strategic partner of Gazpromneft for their products and am sure that the relationship will bring positive gains to both entities. Gazpromneft-Lubricants has world-class products in both automotive and industrial segments to fulfill the requirements of the Indian customers, said Radhakrishnan Ramarathnam, CEO, Enso Oils & Lubricants. The partnership will supplement the supply of specialized lubricants to India's largest manufacturers of industrial equipment and machinery, as well as other enterprises. For modern passenger vehicles manufactured in India, Gazpromneft-Lubricants will supply premium lines of engine and transmission oils with improved characteristics for reliable engine operation in hot climates. The company's own R&D department, including Russias only digital platform for developing oils based on artificial intelligence technology, ensures the uniqueness of the formulations. Thales launches CipherTrust Cloud Key Management integration with Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) to meet growing customer demand Collaboration adds Hold Your Own Key (HYOK) to help support data sovereignty requirements for OCI customers across all 45 Oracle Cloud regions around the world Thales, the leading global technology and security provider, today announced the launch of CipherTrust Cloud Key Management's Hold Your Own Key (HYOK) in Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) across all 45 Oracle Cloud Regionsincluding the recently launched Oracle EU Sovereign Cloudand OCIs other distributed cloud offerings. To help meet continued customer demand and the accelerated growth of the OCI platform, HYOK will help OCI customers achieve their data sovereignty and other compliance objectives more easily by encrypting data in OCI with keys that are controlled and managed outside of the cloud platform. The new HYOK capabilities expand on existing support for Bring Your Own Key (BYOK) in OCI. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918263668/en/ Thales According to the 2023 Thales Cloud Security Study, while the world has become cloud-first, operational complexity in cloud environments remains a significant obstacle for organizations. Overall, cloud security awareness has improved, but concerns around securing data are also rising, with over half (55 percent) of security professionals indicating its more complex to manage data in the cloud than it is in on-premises environments. As a result, as cloud usage grows, organizations need a new way to effectively secure cloud environments. The CipherTrust Cloud Key Management integration enables OCI customers to store and manage their encryption keys outside OCI in a virtual or physical appliance that is entirely under their control and outside of the cloud. Customers can also localize their encryption keys wherever they choose and maintain control of their encrypted data in cloud environments. This approach helps address some of the key privacy and data sovereignty requirements organizations face while making it easier to demonstrate compliance to regulators. The availability of the Thales external key management solution can help accelerate the move of sensitive data into Oracle Cloud Regions by storing the key in a location that is different than the encrypted data. This enables customers to maintain the same process for managing and controlling encryption keys, whether those keys are used on-premises or in the cloud Thales CipherTrust Cloud Key Management, the industry-leading multi-cloud encryption key lifecycle management solution, alleviates operational barriers across clouds and hybrid environments. The HYOK functionality gives OCI customers the external key management capabilities necessary to navigate todays cloud-driven landscape and remain in charge of their data, not just in OCI, but across other cloud providers. Todd Moore, Vice President of Data Security Products at Thales: Businesses are increasingly shifting away from legacy on-premises deployments and need assistance in moving their data to the cloud while maintaining security and compliance. As the industry leader in external key management, were proud to be the first to support HYOK features in OCI, equipping OCI customers with the necessary solutions to be successful in this journey. To further this best-in-class experience for our combined customer base, Thales is also the first supporting vendor for Oracle EU Sovereign Cloud initiatives. Jeppe Larsen, Senior Vice President, OCI Security and Identity at Oracle: Were dedicated to making OCI the most trusted cloud for security-sensitive workloads, including those in highly regulated regions and industries. Oracle EU Sovereign Cloud helps customers operating in Europe to address their data sovereignty requirements, and the HYOK integration with Thales enhances that offering. In addition, this partnership and integration will benefit U.S. customers in regulated industries such as financial services by enabling them to take full advantage of OCI, with the privacy and security benefits of HYOK from Thales. 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 Cybersecurity Solutions | Thales Group View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918263668/en/ Rebecca Mason joins TOM FORD as Senior Vice President, Global Brand Image Paolo Cigognini joins TOM FORD as Senior Vice President, Global Communications and Media TOM FORD announced today that Rebecca Mason has been appointed Senior Vice President, Global Brand Image and Paolo Cigognini has been appointed Senior Vice President, Global Communications and Media, effective August 28, 2023. The new leaders will work closely together to ensure brand image and communications are consistent and cohesive across all verticals of the global luxury house including fashion, beauty and eyewear. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230917506746/en/ Rebecca Mason joins TOM FORD as Senior Vice President, Global Brand Image (Photo: Business Wire) Mason joins TOM FORD following a multi-faceted career at Conde Nast, where she spent more than 15 years, most recently as Vice President of Global Creative for Conde Nast Commercial Creative. As Senior Vice President, Global Brand Image, TOM FORD, Mason will oversee the brand image for all TOM FORD categories, ensuring the signature global luxury brand image and philosophy are cohesively expressed across all touchpoints. Mason will report to Guillaume Jesel, President and CEO, TOM FORD with matrix reporting to Peter Hawkings, Creative Director, TOM FORD. An exceptional brand steward, Rebecca brings a deep understanding of luxury brand storytelling. Her proven expertise will ensure that the brand image of TOM FORD continues to deliver visually arresting, bold concepts that elevate the iconic TOM FORD vision of modern luxury glamour, said Jesel. Cigognini joins TOM FORD with twenty years of global luxury marketing and communications experience. Previously, Cigognini served as Chief Marketing Officer at Alexander McQueen and held leadership roles in marketing and communications at Bottega Veneta, Dolce & Gabbana, and Bulgari. As Senior Vice President, Global Communications and Media, Cigognini will oversee brand equity, strategic communications, paid, owned and earned media, talent and brand voice, for all categories of TOM FORD. Cigognini will report to Guillaume Jesel with matrix reporting to Lelio Gavazza, CEO of TOM FORD FASHION. Paolo is a world class, strategic communications leader with exceptional experience working with Creative Directors in fashion. He has deep expertise in driving luxury aspiration and elevating brand equity to deliver business results, said Gavazza. ABOUT TOM FORD TOM FORD is a global luxury house offering exceptional womens and mens fashion, accessories, eyewear and beauty. Founded in 2005 by Tom Ford, the brand is known for modern luxury glamour. In 2023, Peter Hawkings was appointed Creative Director. The Estee Lauder Companies is the sole owner of TOM FORD and has long-term licenses with Ermenegildo Zegna NV for TOM FORD FASHION and Marcolin Group for TOM FORD EYEWEAR. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230917506746/en/ The United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) announced that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will host the 2024 World Environment Day, highlighting the Kingdoms pioneering efforts locally, regionally, and internationally and leading initiatives to raise awareness and promote action for the protection of our environment. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918361660/en/ Agricultural terraces in the Southern Region of KSA (Photo: AETOSWire) With a focus on land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience, the event, marked annually on 5 June, will reiterate the pressing need for global cooperation and concerted efforts in implementing the right policies and actions to protect and restore nature and ensure a sustainable future. World Environment Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly to emphasize the importance of participatory action to protect the environment. In line with this philosophy, Saudi Arabia has exerted diligent efforts, locally and regionally, by launching the Saudi Green and Middle East Green initiatives and implementing a set of initiatives under its National Environment Strategy. The Saudi government adopted the new Environmental law and the National Environmental Awareness program, to ensure the protection of the environment in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom also launched the National Environment Week and established five environmental centers to conserve the environment in Saudi Arabia, as well as the Environment Fund. Globally, and under Saudi Arabia's G20 presidency, the Coral Research and Development Accelerator Platform and the Global Initiative on Reducing Land Degradation and Enhancing Conservation of Terrestrial Habitats were launched, to protect and restore both marine and terrestrial habitats. Ms. Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the UN Environment Program (UNEP), welcomed Saudi Arabia participation in the collective global efforts to restore land and achieve drought resilience. She noted that UNEP and KSA will endeavor to intensify efforts to restore nature and preserve the planet for future generations. World Environment Day has become the largest global platform dedicated by the United Nations to encouraging worldwide awareness and action for the environment since 1973. With UNEP at the helm, over 150 countries participate in the global celebrations every year. For more information, visit: https://www.mewa.gov.sa/en/Pages/default.aspx https://www.greeninitiatives.gov.sa/ Follow us on: You Tube Twitter *Source: AETOSWire View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918361660/en/ The top court upheld a suspended prison term for Rep. Choe Kang-wook of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea on Monday for fabricating an internship certificate for the son of former Justice Minister Cho Kuk, depriving him of his parliamentary seat. The Supreme Court confirmed the appellate court's sentencing of eight months in prison, suspended for two years. By law, lawmakers are removed from office if sentenced to a prison term, even if it is suspended. Choe was charged with business obstruction for falsely issuing an internship certificate for Cho's son in 2017 while he was working as a lawyer at a law firm. The document was used by Cho's son in applying for graduate school admission. Choe has insisted Cho's son did work as an intern, but courts did not accept the claim on the basis of contrary testimonies by law firm employees. (Yonhap) This Aug. 17, 2018 file photo shows a check-in counter of Jin Air at Gimpo International Airport. Yonhap Police launched an investigation Monday after a box cutter was found inside a Jin Air airplane pending a takeoff from Incheon International Airport, officials said. A security official filed the report at around 9:15 a.m., saying the utility knife was discovered under a seat of the passenger aircraft operated by the Korean low-cost carrier, according to airport police officials. The Jin Air airplane had returned from Japan's Narita International Airport to the Incheon airport, the country's main gateway west of Seoul, the previous day and was scheduled to fly to Guam earlier in the morning. The blade was about 5.5 centimeters long and believed to have been brought in some while ago, given the dusty condition. "So far, we believe that there is no suspicion of terrorism in relation to the utility knife," a police official said. "We're going to investigate further how it was brought onto the plane." A Jin Air official said it filed the report with related authorities in accordance with the due procedures, adding it will "cooperate with the investigation." (Yonhap) Former President Moon Jae-in smiles at his bookstore in Yangsan, South Gyeongsang Province, in this April 26 file photo. Moon is expected to attend Tuesday's event marking the fifth anniversary of the inter-Korean summit held in Pyongyang. Yonhap By Jung Min-ho Former President Moon Jae-in will give a speech at an event marking the fifth anniversary of the inter-Korean summit, which was held in Pyongyang, the organizing committee said, Sunday.. At the ceremony, planned for Tuesday in Seoul, Moon is expected to meet with his former secretaries and Cabinet members, including former Unification Minister Kim Yeon-chul and former Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha. This would be his first public appearance in the capital since he left office in May 2022. The announcement comes as inter-Korean relations remain tense, with North Korea stepping up efforts to develop missile and nuclear weapons. The day after the Seoul-Pyongyang summit on Sept. 18, 2018, Moon and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un issued a joint statement, calling for a no-aggression military agreement, civilian exchanges, the gradual denuclearization of North Korea and cooperation in many other areas. But after failing to remove sanctions on the North's economy through diplomatic deals with the U.S. later on North Korea repeatedly violated the agreement by developing its weapons while at the same time refusing to talk. Critics believe Moon's conciliatory policy was exploited by North Korea, which, in their view, had no intention of respecting the agreement in the first place. Under his successor, Yoon Suk Yeol, officials have adopted a tougher approach toward the regime. Shin Won-sik, the nominee for the defense minister position, said it would be inappropriate for Seoul to abide by what was agreed in the 2018 deal as North Korea blatantly disregards it. The IT industry is all about innovation, adaptability, and constant learning. However, amidst the arrays of coding languages and technical skills, there is one underrated skillset often ignored, that can actually accelerate one's career growthwriting. Strong writing ability is no longer confined to writers, journalists, or authors, it's becoming an increasingly valued skill in every profession including the IT industry. One may wonder, how writing proficiency could enhance a technologist's career? Be it communicating your innovative idea to clients, presenting your coding solution effectively, or documenting critical project information, proficient writing ability plays a decisive role. It aids in showcasing your thoughts more coherently and persuasively, thus, providing an edge in becoming a leader in your domain. Role of Writing in Learning and Advancements Developing strong skills in writing, whether it's in the realm of academia or in the world of business, is highly essential for a multitude of reasons. One of the primary benefits of honing these skills is that they can promote a more lucid understanding of various concepts and ideas. If the individual can efficiently articulate their thoughts through writing, then absorbing and comprehending different theories may also be a simpler process. This clarity in understanding might not only boost the person's knowledge assets, but also it might enhance their overall capacity to learn and adapt. Moreover, for individuals who have lofty career ambitions, being able to present their achievements and contributions through effective writing can be a game-changer. For instance, constructing a well-structured, engaging, and compelling resume is a monumental task in a competitive job market. The hiring managers, usually, have a pile of resumes to scan through, and only those that have managed to present their qualifications, skills, and experience in a crisp and impactful manner stand out. A well-written resume, therefore, can give one a competitive edge, making them a more appealing choice for employers. Facilitating Collaboration and Networking In the modern, globally linked professional world, the significance of virtual communication continues to grow exponentially. It doesn't matter if you are in different time zones, connected via various devices, or speak different languages, successful virtual communication can make all the difference for streamlined and efficient operations. This could be through e-mail correspondence, instant messaging, or online platforms designed to facilitate conversation and collaboration.This principle is not restricted to internal communication within the organization but extends to your virtual presence in professional networks and communities. Consider, for example, professional platforms such as LinkedIn, or various industry-specific forums. These online spaces provide the opportunity to showcase your expertise within your industry, not only to colleagues and peers but potential employers as well.Through community forums and discussion boards, you can engage in meaningful, insightful conversations about your industry. These discussions can showcase your understanding of the industry while demonstrating your effective written communication skills. The way you write, your attention to grammar, vocab, and format all play a crucial role in creating a positive and professional digital footprint. How To Improve Your Writing Skills Beginning on the path to honing your writing skills can initially appear to be a daunting task. It's not easy to improve your ability to articulate ideas, emotions, and stories in written form. The process requires hard work, dedication, and persistence. However, fret not! This challenging journey to mastery can be made smoother and easier with a few effective strategies that will yield notable improvements in no time. First off, the golden rule of 'practice makes perfect' holds true when it comes to writing. Just like you would need to repeatedly play a musical instrument or a sport to get better at it, you have to write on a regular basis to improve your skills. Whether you're writing essays, blog posts, poetry or even diary entries, the key is consistency. Regular practice not only betters your vocabulary and language use, but it can also help you find your unique writing style. Another strategy that can significantly benefit your writing progression is getting your work reviewed by others. Feedback from experienced writers or knowledgeable individuals can provide valuable insights. They can point out your strengths to build upon, as well as identify any weaknesses or areas of improvement. You may be surprised to find recurring errors in your drafts, and fixing these mistakes will undoubtedly enhance your writing. Additionally, reading extensively is a proven method to improve writing skills. Delve into a wide range of literature, from novels and short stories to academic articles and journalistic reports. Pay close attention to language functions, sentence structures, and vocabulary used by accomplished writers. This will not only widen your reading scope but also subconsciously incorporate their writing style into your own.Moreover, in this digital age, there are a myriad of resources available online to aid writers. There are countless online courses and workshops specifically tailored to develop writing skills. These well-structured programs offer the flexibility of learning from the comfort of your home while providing experienced instructors' insight. Some courses focus on general writing skills, while others are more specialized, focusing on creative writing, business writing or academic writing. You have the option of being guided step-by-step in diploma writing too. Such courses typically involve writing tasks, examples, and even interactive exercises that help in understanding and implementing different writing techniques and styles. Enrolling in these courses often results in having a more structured approach to writing and achieving quantifiable growth. Overall, with the right strategies, support, and resources, honing your writing skills becomes less of an uphill task and more of a satisfying journey to success. Re. Casorso corridor concerns (Castanet, Spet. 10) With astonishment, I read this article and watched its video about the Casorso corridor concerns. Having listened to the arguments of these residents, I must admit their concerns are valid. The presentation unfortunately was done in the usual soft-voiced tone. What I mean is, we Canadians raise important issues like these and at the same time we look for apologies so as to not discredit, in this case, the city planners and contractors involved. We start with, they did a great job, it is a fantastic new asset to our city, it could perhaps have been designed a little bit better, we only want it to be as good as possible, and we end with, here and there it could see some small improvements, but overall it was a job well done. At the same time, we all think silently it was a lousy project. This typical modus operandi has brought us, our economy and our society to where we are today. Some call it a broken country, others call it a country that promised immigrants a bright future but brought many only disappointment to the point they had to leave, broke. It is time we learn to speak our minds, unafraid of public shaming, when we see that a politician, (including) a city councillor, mayor, as well as a contractor, scientist, professor, mechanic or technician performing a lousy job. Say it. If its good, its good, if its bad, its bad. As long as we dont learn to speak our minds, (political) under-performers will continue to climb the ladder to the position of minister and create chaos. Ronald Ratgers, Kelowna Development of a Hypertension Electronic Phenotype for Chronic Disease Surveillance in Electronic Health Records: Key Analytic Decisions and Their Effects Katherine H. Hohman, DrPH, MPH1; Bob Zambarano, PhD2; Michael Klompas, MD, MPH3; Hilary K. Wall, MPH4; Emily M. Kraus, PhD, MPH5; Thomas W. Carton, PhD, MS6; Sandra L. Jackson, PhD, MPH4 (View author affiliations) Suggested citation for this article: Hohman KH, Zambarano B, Klompas M, Wall HK, Kraus EM, Carton TW, et al. Development of a Hypertension Electronic Phenotype for Chronic Disease Surveillance in Electronic Health Records: Key Analytic Decisions and Their Effects. [Erratum appears in Prev Chronic Dis 2023;20. https://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2023/23_0026e.htm.] Prev Chronic Dis 2023;20:230026. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5888/pcd20.230026. PEER REVIEWED Summary What is already known on this topic? Previous studies have identified hypertension from electronic health records (EHRs), but the effects of analytic decisions on prevalence estimates have not been characterized, and a consensus definition has not been established. What is added by this report? This report addresses a gap in the literature by providing results and analytic interpretations related to different decision points in the EHR-based electronic phenotype development process and proposes an optimal definition for EHR-based hypertension. What are the implications for public health practice? Analytic decisions have a large effect on EHR-based estimates of hypertension prevalence. Parties working to advance chronic disease data modernization using EHR data can apply this EHR-based definition for surveillance of hypertension prevalence and control. Abstract Introduction Modernizing chronic disease surveillance with electronic health record (EHR) data may provide better data to improve hypertension prevention and control, but no consensus exists for an EHR-based surveillance definition for hypertension. The Multi-State EHR-Based Network for Disease Surveillance (MENDS) pilot surveillance system was used to develop and test an electronic phenotype for hypertension. Methods We used MENDS data from 1,671,544 patients in Louisiana to examine the effect of different analytic decisions on estimates of hypertension prevalence. Decisions included 1) whether to restrict surveillance to patients with recent blood pressure measurements, 2) varying the number and recency of encounters to define the population at risk of hypertension, 3) how to define hypertension (diagnosis codes, antihypertensive medication, blood pressure measurements, or combinations of these), and 4) how to handle multiple blood pressure measurements on the same day. Results were compared with independent estimates of hypertension prevalence in Louisiana from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). Results Applying varying criteria resulted in hypertension prevalence estimates ranging from 19.7% to 59.3%. A hypertension surveillance strategy that includes a population with at least 1 clinical encounter with measured blood pressure in the previous 2 years and identifies hypertension using all available data (1 diagnosis code, 1 antihypertensive medication, and 2 elevated blood pressure values 140/90 mm Hg on separate days) generated estimates in line with population-based survey data. This definition estimated the crude 2019 hypertension prevalence in the state of Louisiana as 43.4% (age-adjusted, 41.0%), comparable with the crude BRFSS estimate of 39.7% (age adjusted, 37.1%). Conclusion Applying different criteria to define hypertension using EHR data has a large effect on hypertension prevalence estimates. The proposed electronic phenotype generates hypertension prevalence estimates that align with independent estimates from BRFSS. Top Introduction Electronic health record (EHR) systems provide an opportunity to use timely and detailed clinical data for public health surveillance, especially to monitor chronic conditions for which up-to-date surveillance information is sparse (1). Enhanced chronic disease surveillance tools can advance public health efforts to improve chronic disease prevention and control by helping to identify populations at greatest risk of disease; monitoring populations and subpopulation trends; and measuring the design, placement, and effect of public health interventions in a timely and efficient manner. Hypertension prevalence and control are surveillance priorities for which repeated vital measurements, such as blood pressure measurements, are captured in the EHR and can be used to identify cases and assess hypertension control. Surveillance of hypertension is a priority because this chronic condition increases the risk for heart disease and stroke 2 of the top 5 leading causes of death in the US and its prevention and control can result in large health benefits, such as reduced risk of stroke, heart disease, and end-stage renal disease (2,3). Various analyses to define hypertension using data from EHRs have been attempted (49), but detailed information is lacking on analytic decisions in the development of electronic phenotypes (e-phenotypes) to identify hypertension cases and assess control. Gaps in the literature include how best to define hypertension (diagnosis codes, prescriptions for antihypertensive medications, elevated high blood pressure measures, or a combination of these); how to handle patients who have multiple, potentially conflicting blood pressure measures in a single day; whether to limit the surveillance population to patients who have measured blood pressure results documented in the EHR; and whether to apply a minimum number and recency of encounters to include patients in surveillance estimates. Often, a starting point for e-phenotype development is adopting or adapting established electronic clinical quality measures (eCQMs) (10). These measures aim to quantify and track the quality of health care services but may not cover conditions of importance to public health surveillance or may not be defined optimally for public health use. Although an eCQM exists for controlling high blood pressure, no eCQM exists for hypertension prevalence, a condition of public health importance. Tests of different definitions applied to a large EHR data population and their effect on hypertension estimates have not been reported. The objective of this study was to address this information gap by describing the analytic decisions to refine a hypertension e-phenotype and the effect of these decisions on estimates of hypertension prevalence and control. We used the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Systems (BRFSSs) independent estimates of hypertension prevalence in a single US jurisdiction as a comparison standard against which to assess the effect of analytic decisions. Top Methods We analyzed data from the Multi-State EHR-Based Network for Disease Surveillance (MENDS) pilot chronic disease surveillance system (11). MENDS is a data modernization demonstration project funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Because it is public health surveillance, MENDS is exempt from institutional review board review. MENDS aims to leverage EHR data from 5 large partner networks across the US to generate timely estimates of chronic disease prevalence and management. MENDS is designed to allow public health agencies to monitor trends to inform policies, plan programs, and evaluate public health initiatives. MENDS is modeled on and leverages software from MDPHnet a distributed network for chronic disease surveillance in Massachusetts (12). In addition to using the 3 open-source software platforms from MDPHnet Electronic medical record Support for Public health (ESP) (13), PopMedNet (14), and RiskScape (15) MENDS also adopted MDPHnets existing chronic disease algorithm (16). MENDS uses a multistage approach to data quality and validation that includes 1) testing to ensure the system is storing a valid representation of the source data, 2) characterizing the data to ensure they provide valid indicators of clinically meaningful population parameters for epidemiology, 3) validating internal algorithms to ensure the code is correctly identifying conditions as specified, and 4) validating externally to ensure valid estimates of the conditions being studied. In spring 2022, the MENDS validation team explored the effects of different analytic decisions on estimates of hypertension prevalence and control in a multistate EHR-based surveillance system. We examined each decision point for clinical face validity, data quality improvement, and effect on hypertension estimates relative to BRFSS estimates. The study population for this exploration was Research Action for Health Network (REACHnet) (17), operated by the Louisiana Public Health Institute, 1 of the 5 data contributors participating in MENDS. Data contributors provide data to MENDS on behalf of multiple data owners (eg, health systems) and partner with data users from proximal state or local health departments. The total number of patients in MENDS contributed by REACHnet was more than 5 million as of May 2022. REACHnet has 4 clinical partners in Louisiana and Texas and uses privacy-preserving record linkage to link data across sites. We used data on the adult (aged 20 y) patient population in Louisiana (N = 1,671,544) in REACHnet (Table 1) to explore the following key decision points in 2019, the last full calendar year before the health care effects of the COVID-19 pandemic: Should the surveillance population of interest include all patients who have had any health care encounter or just those with at least 1 measured blood pressure? Should the surveillance population be limited to patients with encounters within the preceding 1 year or 2 years? In addition, should the population be limited to patients with a minimum of 1 encounter or 2 encounters within the surveillance period? Should patients with hypertension be identified by using diagnosis codes, medication potentially prescribed for hypertension (antihypertensive medication), elevated blood pressure values, or a combination of these criteria? When multiple blood pressure values are available for a single patient on a single day, which values should be used? In general, the availability of REACHnet data has a 6-month lag. Had the COVID-19 pandemic not caused us to focus our analysis (conducted in spring 2022) on data from 2019, we would have been able to use data current as of November 2021. The comparison reference for hypertension prevalence was the crude and age-adjusted BRFSS estimate for Louisiana in 2019. We used the BRFSS measure for hypertension awareness adults who have been told they have high blood pressure (18). We selected Louisiana for this comparison because REACHnets largest data coverage is in Louisiana, where it covers 31% of the state population (19). BRFSS does not have estimates for hypertension control, so we did not make this comparison. Surveillance population Individuals interact with the health care system for various reasons, such as illness, injury, prevention, or prescription refills. Not all health care interactions result in the collection of information needed to routinely assess, diagnose, and treat hypertension, and not all health care providers are accounted for in a given system. For example, data on some patients might be captured in one system when they visit a specialist. Some clinicians, particularly specialists, defer to primary care physicians or cardiologists for the management of a patients blood pressure and, therefore, do not measure blood pressure or reliably record antihypertensive medication. These primary care physicians may not be part of a participating data network. Thus, a proportion of patients may be in a system whose records do not contain the minimum data needed for valid hypertension assessment. Conversely, if the strategy for identifying hypertension includes diagnosis codes or medications, then excluding patients without measured blood pressures may unnecessarily limit the size of the surveillance population or bias the surveillance population toward patients who are more engaged or under more intensive care. We explored 5 scenarios to define the population for estimating the prevalence of hypertension: 1) a patient population with at least 1 clinical encounter in 2018 or 2019 (Denominator 1), 2) a patient population with at least 1 clinical encounter with measured blood pressure in 2018 or 2019 (Denominator 2), 3) a patient population with at least 1 clinical encounter with measured blood pressure in 2019 (Denominator 3), 4) a patient population with at least 2 clinical encounters with measured blood pressure in 2018 or 2019 (Denominator 4), and 5) a patient population with at least 2 clinical encounters with measured blood pressure in 2019 (Denominator 5). The number of people in the surveillance population is the denominator for the hypertension prevalence measure. Hypertension case criteria EHR data provide multiple data elements, such as diagnosis codes, medication prescriptions, and blood pressure values, that may be used for hypertension case identification. Pertinent diagnosis codes for hypertension include International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9-CM) 401.x essential hypertension, ICD-9 405.x secondary hypertension (20), International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10-CM) I10 essential hypertension, and ICD-10-CM I15 secondary hypertension (21). Antihypertensive medication includes selected diuretics, calcium channel antagonists, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, -blockers, and antagonists (Box). Pertinent blood pressure values include elevated systolic measures of 140 mm Hg or elevated diastolic measures of 90 mm Hg on at least 2 separate days. We explored each of these criteria independently and in combination to identify people with hypertension. The number of people identified as hypertension cases is the numerator for the hypertension prevalence measure. We used only outpatient data. Box. Generic Drug Names of All Antihypertensive Medications Included by Study Team for Surveillance of Electronic Health Records Box. Generic Drug Names of All Antihypertensive Medications Included by Study Team for Surveillance of Electronic Health Records Antihypertensive medications acebutolol chlorthalidone guanfacine metoprolol prazosin aliskiren clevidipine hydralazine moexipril propranolol amlodipine clonidine hydrochlorothiazide nadolol quinapril atenolol diltiazem indapamide nebivolol ramipril benazepril doxazosin irbesartan nicardipine spironolactone betaxolol enalapril isradipine nifedipine telmisartan bisoprolol eplerenone labetalol nisoldipine terazosin candesartan eprosartan lisinopril olmesartan trandolapril captopril felodipine losartan perindopril valsartan carvedilol fosinopril methyldopa pindolol verapamil Multiple blood pressure readings on a single day When individuals interact with the health care system, multiple blood pressure values are sometimes recorded on a single day. There may be multiple measurements recorded during 1 encounter (for example, if a clinician suspects an initial measure may be an outlier), accidental duplicate entries, or multiple encounters in 1 day, each with its own blood pressure value. These multiple values may affect hypertension estimates. Many methods exist for treating multiple blood pressure values taken on a single day to assess hypertension prevalence and control. We explored the following 5 approaches, some drawn from the literature and others aligned with existing methodologies: Mean arterial pressure (MAP) (22): For each blood pressure value, the MAP is calculated by using the equation [(2 diastolic blood pressure) + systolic blood pressure]/3. We used the blood pressure that corresponded to the lowest MAP as the reading for the day. This is a common strategy used by intensive care physicians for integrating systolic and diastolic readings into a single metric to guide treatment and facilitate comparisons over time. Average readings: The average of all systolic blood pressure values and the average of all diastolic blood pressure values were used as the reading for the day. This approach decouples paired systolic and diastolic values but is conceptually simple and mirrors the approach used by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (23). Lowest systolic blood pressure and lowest diastolic blood pressure: The lowest systolic and lowest diastolic values were used as the reading for the day. This approach was informed by the Controlling High Blood Pressure eCQM (24). This approach also decouples paired systolic and diastolic values. Lowest systolic and accompanying diastolic blood pressure. Lowest diastolic and accompanying systolic blood pressure. To avoid overinflating the hypertension estimate, we used a conservative approach taking the lowest blood pressure values (vs highest) in approaches 3, 4, and 5. For the assessment of elevated blood pressure values and hypertension control, we explored each method for determining which blood pressure to use on a given day when multiple measures for the day existed. Controlled hypertension Hypertension control status for patients with hypertension was assigned according to the patients most recent blood pressure value starting with the day of diagnosis. We excluded from assessment of control patients lacking diagnosis codes for hypertension (ICD-9 401.x essential hypertension, or ICD-10 I10 essential hypertension). Top Results Surveillance population Varying the requirements for blood pressure measurement affected the size of the denominator (the surveillance population) and the corresponding prevalence of hypertension (Table 2). If the criterion of having at least 1 clinical encounter with measured blood pressure in 2018 or 2019 was implemented, the denominator of patients was reduced by 57% (from 1,368,049 to 586,652) compared with the denominator of patients with at least 1 clinical encounter in 2018 or 2019 (regardless of whether blood pressure was measured). Of those excluded when the blood pressure criterion was added, 0.7% had a hypertension diagnosis and 1.2% had prescriptions for antihypertensive medication. The denominator was further reduced when the surveillance time span was shortened from 2 years to 1 year (from 586,652 to 477,381 a 19% decrease) or when at least 2 blood pressure values were required instead of 1 blood pressure value in 2018 or 2019 (from 586,652 to 435,870 a 27% decrease). Hypertension prevalence estimates were dependent on the strategy used to define the surveillance population (ie, the denominator). For example, when we restricted the denominator to those with at least 1 clinical encounter with measured blood pressure in 2018 or 2019, compared with having at least 1 clinical encounter regardless of whether blood pressure was measured, hypertension prevalence (determined by diagnosis, antihypertensive medication, or 2 elevated blood pressures) increased from 19.7% to 43.4% (Table 2). We selected a denominator requiring at least 1 clinical encounter with measured blood pressure in 2018 or 2019 (Denominator 2) for subsequent analyses because it was the least restrictive denominator that still allowed for ample opportunity for hypertension assessment (ie, captured 1 blood pressure value, indicating a potential primary care visit). Hypertension prevalence When we used Denominator 2 as the basis for analysis, and the combination of all 3 criteria for hypertension case identification (diagnosis codes, prescription for antihypertensive medication, or 2 elevated blood pressures) to calculate the numerator of patients with hypertension, the crude hypertension prevalence in 2019 for this population was 43.4% (age-adjusted, 41.0%) (Table 3). This estimate was comparable with the 2019 BRFSS crude estimate of 39.7% of adults in Louisiana who recall having been told they had high blood pressure (age-adjusted, 37.1%) (Table 3). When we examined each criterion for hypertension case identification individually, diagnosis codes yielded a hypertension prevalence of 33.4%; high blood pressures yielded a hypertension prevalence of 24.2%, and antihypertensive medication yielded a hypertension prevalence of 22.3%. When we combined 2 criteria, the pairing of diagnosis codes with elevated blood pressures yielded a hypertension prevalence of 41.2%, and the pairing of diagnosis code with antihypertensive medication yielded a prevalence of 36.5%. Overall, 77% of potential hypertension cases had a diagnosis code for hypertension (Figure). Figure. Contribution of 3 criteria for hypertension case definition to an estimated overall hypertension prevalence of 43.4% in Louisiana, 2019. The denominator for estimating prevalence was the population of patients with 1 blood pressure measurement in 2018 or 2019 and 3 criteria for hypertension case identification (a combination of 1 diagnosis code, 2 elevated blood pressures, and antihypertensive medication). Data source: Research Action for Health Network (REACHnet) (17), operated by the Louisiana Public Health Institute, 1 of the 5 data contributors participating in the Multi-State EHR-Based Network for Disease Surveillance (MENDS) pilot chronic disease surveillance system (11). [A tabular version of this figure is available.] Multiple blood pressure readings on a single day The 5 methods used to address multiple blood pressure values in a single day did not meaningfully affect hypertension prevalence or control; results differed by less than a single percentage point (Table 4). Hypertension prevalence ranged from 43.4% to 43.8%, depending on the method used. Hypertension control ranged from 67.1% to 67.5%, depending on the method used. About one-fifth of the population (19%) had a day with multiple blood pressure values. Eight percent (297,991 of 3,760,807) of days in 2018 and 2019 with a blood pressure value had multiple blood pressure values. Top Discussion Tracking hypertension prevalence and control trends, characterizing affected populations, and assessing the effect of prevention and management programs are public health priorities that can be supported by using clinical data. Automated analyses of EHR data drawn from multiple large practices covering prioritized jurisdictions could facilitate accurate, timely, and clinically detailed surveillance for hypertension prevalence and control. Critical to this process is the creation of a rigorous and credible surveillance definition for identifying hypertension. Such a surveillance definition requires a series of analytic decisions, including how best to state the denominator population at risk, which electronic criteria to use to define hypertension cases as the numerator, and how to handle patients who have multiple potentially conflicting blood pressure values on a given day. The selected MENDS algorithm leveraged a denominator population of patients with at least 1 blood pressure measurement in the preceding 2 years, used a 3-criterion e-phenotype for hypertension case identification (a combination of 1 diagnosis code, 2 elevated blood pressure readings, and a prescription for 1 antihypertensive medication), and averaged blood pressure measurements when a patient had multiple measures on a single day. The results of each scenario defining the surveillance population of interest, selecting appropriate criteria for case identification, and determining how to incorporate multiple blood pressures in a single day affected the size of the surveillance population and estimates of hypertension prevalence and control, sometimes to a large extent. For example, adding a requirement for at least 1 measured blood pressure in the preceding 2 years dropped the size of the denominator population by more than half, compared with including all patients with encounters in the preceding 2 years (1.4 million vs 0.6 million). This reduction in the denominator population was associated with a doubling of the estimated prevalence of hypertension regardless of the strategy for defining the numerator (diagnosis codes, antihypertensive medications, measured high blood pressures, or a combination of these). Inclusion of the requirement for at least 1 measured blood pressure narrowed the breadth of health care encounters included in the estimate to those that provide adequate opportunity for hypertension assessment (eg, a primary care visit rather than a mental health encounter), but it may also exclude some encounters in which a blood pressure measurement would be expected but did not happen. This result mirrors the work of Cocoros et al, who demonstrated the large effect of varying the denominator definition on disease prevalence estimates using EHR data (27). Changing the denominator population to use the criterion of having at least 1 encounter with measured blood pressure in the preceding 2 years brought the MENDS hypertension prevalence measure in line with the BRFSS hypertension prevalence estimate for Louisiana (crude, 43.4% vs 39.7%; age-adjusted, 41.0% vs 37.1%). One might expect a slightly higher estimate in MENDS given that a health care population is seeking care and potentially should have a higher hypertension estimate than the underlying general population. MENDS estimates of hypertension may also be greater than BRFSS estimates because the MENDS algorithm could be capturing data on those who have hypertension based on measured blood pressure but who are undiagnosed, or hiding in plain sight (28), a population not likely captured in BRFSS. To define the surveillance population for whom to assess hypertension given that for patients with no blood pressure measures, the opportunity to assess, identify, treat, and manage hypertension was lacking we opted to define the denominator population to assess hypertension prevalence and control as individuals who had a least 1 encounter with measured blood pressure in the preceding 2 years. Changing the strategy for identifying hypertension cases was also associated with a nearly 2-fold change in the estimated prevalence of hypertension. Defining hypertension on the basis of prescriptions for antihypertensive medication alone, for example, led to an estimated hypertension prevalence of 22.3%, whereas also considering diagnosis codes and elevated blood pressure measures led to an estimated hypertension prevalence of 43.4%. However, importantly, estimates of hypertension prevalence using diagnosis codes alone missed approximately one-quarter of cases that were detected when all 3 criteria were considered. Therefore, we opted to use all 3 criteria to identify a hypertension case (diagnosis codes, antihypertensive medication, and 2 elevated blood pressures within a year). This 3-criterion definition differed from the e-phenotype selected by Peng et al, which used a combination of diagnosis codes and blood pressure values but did not include medication (8). In MENDS, the use of antihypertensive medications contributed to 5% of the cases identified. The difference between selected e-phenotypes may be due to differences in study population (United Kingdom vs US) or data source (sample of general practitioners using a single medical record system vs EHR data aggregated from multiple systems) and that Peng et al were looking to align estimates with the national Health Survey for England. In contrast, the study by Teixeira et al found that a combination of diagnosis codes, blood pressure values, and medication data performed well, noting that the use of multiple categories of information improved performance (7). The MENDS-selected e-phenotype all available criteria for case identification aligned with clinical reasoning as well as expected levels of hypertension prevalence in the context of available comparison sources. It is worth noting that a gold standard does not exist for comparing EHR-based estimates of hypertension. BRFSS and NHANES, 2 well-known public health surveillance data sources, differ considerably from each other and from MENDS, which creates challenges in making comparisons. NHANES uses measured blood pressure, similar to MENDS, but data are available only at the national level. BRFSS, whose data are available at the state level, is based on self-reporting of being told one has high blood pressure and does not capture data on those who are undiagnosed. We placed MENDS estimates in the context of these available sources (Table 3). The MENDS 2019 age-adjusted hypertension estimate (41.0%) is between NHANES comparable years age-adjusted estimates using a threshold of 130/80 mm Hg (45.4%) (25) and a threshold of 140/90 mm Hg (32.9%) (26). However, the BRFSS national estimate (32.3%) shows that Louisiana (37.1%) trends higher than the national average (18). In determining how to handle multiple blood pressures captured in a single day, we found little difference in estimates when we used different methods. Thus, we opted to implement the NHANES strategy of averaging all readings from a single day, given NHANES also reflects a public health surveillance system. This approach also makes maximal use of all available information, unlike the eCQM strategy of using only a patients lowest values. Strategies to improve blood pressure control, such as the practice of self-measured blood pressure monitoring, can generate additional blood pressure values that could be integrated into EHRs for use in patient care and treatment (2931). When even more blood pressure values become widely available, additional methods may be needed to efficiently process and use these data for EHR-based surveillance. Limitations This analysis has several limitations. First, included data were restricted to a single state from a single MENDS data contributor to allow for a state-level comparison with BRFSS. This data contributor may not have captured data on all health care encounters and records for each patient, which could have led to underestimates of hypertension prevalence. Second, data from a single data contributor may not be comparable in terms of patient population and data structure with other organizations that aggregate EHR data, so observed hypertension estimates (and relative effects of each decision point in the e-phenotype selection process) may not be generalizable to other health care data sources. Third, existing literature lacked guidance on how to develop a hypertension e-phenotype that would be appropriate for a national EHR-based surveillance system, and therefore, we had a limited evidence base to guide decisions. Thus, we used clinician input, face validity, and comparison with BRFSS estimates for e-phenotype selection. Our decisions were based on clinical reasoning and the observed effect on prevalence estimates (and their comparison with BRFSS estimates) rather than clinical record medical review or direct clinical measures in a sample of individual patients. We did not compare the effect of different analytic choices in an independent EHR-based surveillance system to see whether the effects on hypertension prevalence estimates were similar to each other in magnitude and comparability with BRFSS. Fourth, the misclassification of cases is also possible because some antihypertensive medications can be used to treat conditions other than hypertension. Our review of the top 5 diagnosis codes for patients who used antihypertensive medication and lacked a hypertension diagnosis or high blood pressure measurement were 1) encounter for immunization, 2) other long-term (current) drug therapy, 3) mixed hyperlipidemia, 4) gastroesophageal reflux disease without esophagitis, and 5) hyperlipidemia, unspecified. Conclusion Our analysis helps to address an important knowledge gap by optimizing a surveillance definition of hypertension using EHR data and describing the analytic decisions used in refining the hypertension e-phenotype and their effect on estimates of hypertension prevalence and control. As a result of this analysis, the MENDS team has updated its code and deployed the updated code to its data contributors. Beyond the MENDS project, the selected hypertension e-phenotype may inform clinical and public health efforts to conduct surveillance of hypertension prevalence and control in other data systems and populations. This work underscores the large effect of different analytic decisions to define both numerators and denominators on EHR-based estimates of chronic disease prevalence and control. Our work highlights the importance of transparency in analytic decisions, the potential value of sensitivity analyses to quantify the effect of different analytic decisions, and the importance of future comparative analyses of these methods across different jurisdictions. Future work could validate EHR-based estimates of chronic diseases from independent surveillance systems, while being attentive to the strengths and limitations of these comparators. Top Acknowledgments The creation of this information is associated with Multi-State EHR-Based Network for Disease Surveillance (MENDS). We acknowledge the contribution of MENDS partner sites and the project team (http://chronicdisease.org/MENDSINFO). Specifically, the authors acknowledge the participation of REACHnet partner health systems in this project. The Improving Chronic Disease Surveillance and Management Through the Use of Electronic Health Records/Health Information Systems project is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $2,500,000 with 100 percent funded by CDC/HHS. The contents are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, CDC/HHS or the US Government. In addition, the work reported in this publication was conducted in partnership with Research Action for Health Network (REACHnet), funded by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI Award RI-LPHI-01-MC). REACHnet is a partner network in PCORnet, the National Patient-Centered Clinical Research Network, which was developed with funding from PCORI. No copyrighted material was used in this manuscript. Top Author Information Corresponding Author: Katherine H. Hohman, DrPH, MPH, National Association of Chronic Disease Directors, 101 W Ponce de Leon, Decatur, GA 30030 (khohman@chronicdisease.org). Author Affiliations: 1National Association of Chronic Disease Directors, Decatur, Georgia. 2Commonwealth Informatics, Waltham, Massachusetts. 3Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts. 4Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia. 5Independent Consultant to Public Health Informatics Institute, a program of the Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, Georgia. 6Louisiana Public Health Institute, New Orleans, Louisiana. Top References Klompas M, Murphy M, Lankiewicz J, McVetta J, Lazarus R, Eggleston E, et al. Harnessing electronic health records for public health surveillance. Online J Public Health Inform 2011;3(3):ojphi.v3i3.3794. PubMed doi:10.5210/ojphi.v3i3.3794 Ahmad FB, Cisewski JA, Minino A, Anderson RN. Provisional mortality data United States, 2020. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2021;70(14):51922. PubMed doi:10.15585/mmwr.mm7014e1 Farley TA, Dalal MA, Mostashari F, Frieden TR. Deaths preventable in the U.S. by improvements in use of clinical preventive services. Am J Prev Med 2010;38(6):6009. PubMed doi:10.1016/j.amepre.2010.02.016 Lu Y, Huang C, Mahajan S, Schulz WL, Nasir K, Spatz ES, et al. Leveraging the electronic health records for population health: a case study of patients with markedly elevated blood pressure. J Am Heart Assoc 2020;9(7):e015033. PubMed doi:10.1161/JAHA.119.015033 Meador M, Osheroff JA, Reisler B. Improving identification and diagnosis of Hypertensive Patients Hiding in Plain Sight (HIPS) in health centers. Jt Comm J Qual Patient Saf 2018;44(3):11729. PubMed doi:10.1016/j.jcjq.2017.09.003 Rakotz MK, Ewigman BG, Sarav M, Ross RE, Robicsek A, Konchak CW, et al. A technology-based quality innovation to identify undiagnosed hypertension among active primary care patients. Ann Fam Med 2014;12(4):3528. PubMed doi:10.1370/afm.1665 Teixeira PL, Wei WQ, Cronin RM, Mo H, VanHouten JP, Carroll RJ, et al. Evaluating electronic health record data sources and algorithmic approaches to identify hypertensive individuals. J Am Med Inform Assoc 2017;24(1):16271. PubMed doi:10.1093/jamia/ocw071 Peng M, Chen G, Kaplan GG, Lix LM, Drummond N, Lucyk K, et al. Methods of defining hypertension in electronic medical records: validation against national survey data. J Public Health (Oxf) 2016;38(3):e3929. PubMed doi:10.1093/pubmed/fdv155 Cooper-DeHoff RM, Fontil V, Carton T, Chamberlain AM, Todd J, OBrien EC, et al. Tracking blood pressure control performance and process metrics in 25 US health systems: the PCORnet Blood Pressure Control Laboratory. J Am Heart Assoc 2021;10(21):e022224. PubMed doi:10.1161/JAHA.121.022224 Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Electronic clinical quality measures basics. Page last modified March 16, 2023. Accessed October 12, 2023. https://www.cms.gov/regulations-and-guidance/legislation/ehrincentiveprograms/clinicalqualitymeasures Hohman KH, Martinez AK, Klompas M, Kraus EM, Li W, Carton TW, et al. Leveraging electronic health record data for timely chronic disease surveillance: the Multi-State EHR-Based Network for Disease Surveillance. J Public Health Manag Pract 2023;29(2):16273. PubMed doi:10.1097/PHH.0000000000001693 Vogel J, Brown JS, Land T, Platt R, Klompas M. MDPHnet: secure, distributed sharing of electronic health record data for public health surveillance, evaluation, and planning. Am J Public Health 2014;104(12):226570. PubMed doi:10.2105/AJPH.2014.302103 ESP/MDPHnet. Electronic medical record support for public health. Accessed November 2, 2022. https://www.esphealth.org Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute. PopMedNet. Accessed November 2, 2022. https://www.popmednet.org Cocoros NM, Kirby C, Zambarano B, Ochoa A, Eberhardt K, Rocchio C, et al. RiskScape: a data visualization and aggregation platform for public health surveillance using routine electronic health record data. Am J Public Health 2021;111(2):26976. PubMed doi:10.2105/AJPH.2020.305963 Confluence. ESP algorithms. Last updated March 16, 2023. Accessed October 12, 2022. https://espnet.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/EP/pages/93585410/ESP+Algorithms Research Action for Health Network. Homepage. Accessed October 16, 2022. https://reachnet.org Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. BRFSS prevalence & trends data: explore by location. Accessed November 3, 2022. https://nccd.cdc.gov/BRFSSPrevalence/rdPage.aspx?rdReport=DPH_BRFSS.ExploreByLocation&rdProcessAction=&SaveFileGenerated=1&irbLocationType=States&islLocation=22&islState=&islCounty=&islClass=CLASS10&islTopic=TOPIC31&islYear=2019&hidLocationType=States&hidLocation=22&hidClass=CLASS10&hidTopic=TOPIC31&hidTopicName=High+Blood+Pressure&hidYear=2019&irbShowFootnotes=Show&rdICL-iclIndicators=_RFHYPE5&iclIndicators_rdExpandedCollapsedHistory=&iclIndicators=_RFHYPE5&hidPreviouslySelectedIndicators=&DashboardColumnCount=2&rdShowElementHistory=divTopicUpdating%3DHide%2CislTopic%3DShow%2CdivYearUpdating%3DHide%2CislYear%3DShow%2C&rdScrollX=0&rdScrollY=0&rdRnd=21311 US Census Bureau. Louisiana: 2020 census. Accessed January 3, 2023. https://www.census.gov/library/stories/state-by-state/louisiana-population-change-between-census-decade.html Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 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Hypertension prevalence among adults aged 18 and over: United States, 20172018. NCHS Data Brief 2020;(364):18. PubMed Muntner P, Miles MA, Jaeger BC, Hannon L III, Hardy ST, Ostchega Y, et al. Blood pressure control among US adults, 2009 to 2012 through 2017 to 2020. Hypertension 2022;79(9):197180. PubMed doi:10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.122.19222 Cocoros NM, Ochoa A, Eberhardt K, Zambarano B, Klompas M. Denominators matter: understanding medical encounter frequency and its impact on surveillance estimates using EHR data. EGEMS (Wash DC) 2019;7(1):31. PubMed doi:10.5334/egems.292 Wall HK, Hannan JA, Wright JS. Patients with undiagnosed hypertension: hiding in plain sight. JAMA 2014;312(19):19734. PubMed doi:10.1001/jama.2014.15388 Jackson SL, Ayala C, Tong X, Wall HK. Clinical implementation of self-measured blood pressure monitoring, 20152016. Am J Prev Med 2019;56(1):e1321. PubMed doi:10.1016/j.amepre.2018.06.017 Rodriguez S, Hwang K, Wang J. Connecting home-based self-monitoring of blood pressure data into electronic health records for hypertension care: a qualitative inquiry with primary care providers. JMIR Form Res 2019;3(2):e10388. PubMed doi:10.2196/10388 Lv N, Xiao L, Simmons ML, Rosas LG, Chan A, Entwistle M. Personalized hypertension management using patient-generated health data integrated with electronic health records (EMPOWER-H): six-month pre-post study. J Med Internet Res 2017;19(9):e311. PubMed doi:10.2196/jmir.7831 Top Tables Table 1. Demographic Characteristics of Adult Population (Aged 20 y) in Louisiana, REACHnet, 2019a Characteristic Louisiana REACHnet, no. (%) (N = 1,671,544) Sex Female 935,112 (55.9) Male 735,978 (44.0) Unknown 454 (<0.1) Age group, y 20-24 141,508 (8.5) 25-34 320,180 (19.2) 35-44 296,768 (17.8) 45-54 271,043 (16.2) 55-64 305,090 (18.3) 65 336,955 (20.2) Race American Indian or Alaska Native 5,840 (0.3) Asian 25,740 (1.5) Black or African American 545,287 (32.6) Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander 549 (<0.1) White 976,882 (58.4) Multiple race 149 (<0.1) Other race 56,407 (3.4) Unknown 60,690 (3.6) Ethnicity Hispanic 92,640 (5.5) Not Hispanic 149,7826 (89.6) Unknown 81,078 (4.9) Table 2. Effect of Changing the Surveillance Denominator Relative to Criteria for Hypertension Case Identification 2019a Criteria Denominator 1: 1 clinical encounter in 2018 or 2019 (N = 1,368,049) Denominator 2: 1 clinical encounter with measured blood pressure in 2018 or 2019 (N = 586,652)b Denominator 3: 1 clinical encounter with measured blood pressure in 2019 (N = 477,381) Denominator 4: 2 clinical encounters with measured blood pressure in 2018 or 2019 (N = 435,870) Denominator 5: 2 clinical encounters with measured blood pressure in 2019 (N = 328,165) Any hypertension diagnosis 201,551 (14.7) 195,914 (33.4) 179,168 (37.5) 178,895 (41.0) 151,309 (46.1) Any 2 elevated blood pressure measurementsc 142,496 (10.4) 141,941 (24.2) 131,618 (27.6) 141,085 (32.4) 122,012 (37.2) Any antihypertensive medication 139,989 (10.2) 130,675 (22.3) 122,151 (25.6) 122,216 (28.0) 106,278 (32.4) Any hypertension diagnosis OR any 2 elevated blood pressurec measurements 247,908 (18.1) 241,807 (41.2) 219,411 (46.0) 224,472 (51.5) 186,906 (57.0) Any hypertension diagnosis OR any antihypertensive medication 228,027 (16.7) 213,908 (36.5) 194,504 (40.7) 194,026 (44.5) 163,256 (49.7) Any hypertension diagnosis OR antihypertensive medication OR 2 elevated blood pressure measurementsc 269,216 (19.7) 254,661 (43.4) 230,222 (48.2) 234,492 (53.8) 194,670 (59.3) Table 3. Comparison of MENDS Hypertension Prevalence Estimates in Louisianaa With Other Available Public Health Estimates Source Measure detail Hypertension prevalence estimate, % Description Crude Age-adjusted National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (25,26) National (20172018): SBP 130 mm Hg or DBP 80 mm Hg 48.2 45.4 NHANES hypertension case definition blood pressure 130 mm Hg systolic and/or 80 mm Hg diastolic and/or currently taking antihypertensive medications National (20172020): SBP 140 mm Hg or DBP 90 mm Hg Unpublished 32.9 NHANES case definition blood pressure 140 mm Hg systolic and/or 90 mm Hg diastolic and/or currently taking antihypertensive medications Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) (18) National (2019) median of 50 state estimates 32.3 Unpublished BRFSS hypertension case definition is based on self-report of Have you ever been told by a provider that you have high blood pressure? Louisiana (2019) 39.7 37.1 Multi-State EHR-Based Network for Disease Surveillance (MENDS) Louisiana (2019): SBP 140 mm Hg or DBP 90 mm Hg 43.4 41.0 MENDS hypertension case definition uses a combination of 1 diagnosis code, 2 elevated blood pressure readings (SBP 140 mm Hg or DBP 90 mm Hg), or antihypertensive medication and a denominator population of patients with 1 blood pressure measurement in the preceding 2 years Table 4. Hypertension Prevalence and Control Based on Different Methods of Handling Multiple Blood Pressure Values on the Same Daya Method Hypertension prevalence, % Hypertension control, % Mean arterial pressure 43.7 67.4 Average of blood pressure measurementsb 43.4 67.1 Lowest systolic and diastolic blood pressure 43.7 67.5 Minimum systolic blood pressure 43.7 67.5 Minimum diastolic blood pressure 43.8 67.3 Top Caribbean Cement to boost exports 18 September 2023 Caribbean Cement Co Ltd (CCCL) has exported 3400t of cement to the Turks and Caicos Islands, a volume it hopes to ramp up once its expansion plans are completed. The company is currently extending its kiln capacity as part of a US$40m investment plan, boosting production capacity by up to 30 per cent. As soon as we have available product, available capacity, we will always sell it to Jamaica. This is our priority. However, there is a market out there for us. We will actively look for opportunities to reallocate the spare capacity to the export market, said Yago Castro, managing director of CCCL, according to the Jamaica Observer. Published under Perus cement market contracts by 10% in August ICR Newsroom By 18 September 2023 Cement dispatches in Peru declined by 10 per cent YoY to 1.089Mt in August 2023 from1.211Mt in August 2022, according to the countrys cement association, ASOCEM. Of this total, ASOCEM members supplied 1.015Mt, down from 1.167Mt in August 2022. Non-members dispatched 74,000t, up from 44,000t in August 2022. However, when compared with July 2023, dispatches were up six per cent. Cement production in member plants was down 12 per cent YoY to 1.011Mt in August 2023 from 1.145Mt in the year-ago period. Clinker production fell 17 per cent YoY to 0.703Mt over the same period. In terms of exports, cement shipments dropped by 30 per cent to 11,000t in August 2023 when compared with August 2022, when 15,000t were exported. However, clinker exports surged by 93 per cent YoY to 69,500t in August 2023 from 31,000t. In August 2023, cement imports fell by 73 per cent YoY to 2000t, all originating from neighbouring Chile while South Korea supplied all of the 48,000t of clinker imported. When compared with August 2022, clinker imports decreased by 37 per cent from 77,000t. January-August 2023 In the first eight months of 2023, total cement dispatches in Peru are down 12.2 per cent to 7.808Mt from 8.889Mt in the 8MM22. Cement production saw a 13.5 per cent YoY decline to 7.468Mt from 8.635Mt in the 8M22 while clinker output was down by six per cent YoY to 6.369Mt in the 8M23 from 6.779Mt. Cement exports in the January-August 2023 period fell by 19.2 per cent YoY to 0.101Mt from 0.125Mt and clinker exports saw an 11.3 per cent drop YoY to 0.35Mt from 0.394Mt in the 8M22. Cement imports decreased by 25.6 per cent to 0.154Mt in the 8M23 from 0.207Mt in the year-ago period while clinker imports were down 29.8 per cent YoY to 0.46Mt from 0.655Mt. over the same period. Published under Lee Jae-myung, center, leader of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea, is transferred to a nearby hospital in Seoul by paramedics on the 19th day of his hunger strike, Sept. 18. Yonhap Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung expressed his desire Monday to continue his hunger strike even after he was taken to a hospital due to deteriorating health on the 19th day of his fast earlier in the day, officials said. Spokesperson Han Min-soo of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) delivered the information to reporters after Lee was transferred to a nearby hospital earlier, suffering dizziness and a sharp drop in blood sugar levels. "Lee will only receive a minimal amount of IV treatment and will not consume any food. The move is interpreted as his will to put a stop to the reckless administration," Han said. Regarding Lee's condition, Han said Lee is out of immediate danger but is far from regaining vitality. Lawmakers of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea submit a motion calling for the dismissal of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo with the National Assembly in Seoul, Sept. 18. Joint Press Corps The main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) filed a motion calling for the dismissal of Prime Minister Han Duk-soo on Monday, urging President Yoon Suk Yeol to carry out a complete overhaul of the way he runs the government. The motion to dismiss Han is expected to be put to a vote during a plenary session Thursday, according to the DPK. Under the National Assembly Act, lawmakers are mandated to vote on a dismissal motion for a Cabinet member within 72 hours of its submission to the parliamentary plenary session. The vote can begin 24 hours after the submission. "Han has failed to manage and has made mistakes in properly recommending the right ministers amid the total chaos in government affairs," Rep. Song Ki-hun, a DPK spokesperson, told reporters. "A complete overhaul of the Cabinet is necessary at the moment." Last week, Yoon nominated a ruling party lawmaker and former three-star Army general for defense minister in a partial Cabinet shakeup that also affected the culture and gender equality ministers. Earlier in the day, DPK floor leader Park Kwang-on also called for the resignation of all Cabinet members as part of the overhaul, saying that otherwise, Yoon's administration would be recorded as the worst-ever since South Korea's democratization. Park made the appeal in an address at the National Assembly, denouncing a series of recent incidents, including the prosecution's request of an arrest warrant for DPK leader Lee Jae-myung and the audit agency's investigation into the alleged manipulation of key economic data during the previous administration. "(Yoon) should revamp the foundations of government administration, human resources and the current system if he wishes to stay as a successful president," Park said in a speech at the National Assembly. The floor leader also criticized the prosecution's request of the warrant for Lee over a scandal-ridden land development case and allegations of his involvement in illegal cash remittances to North Korea. Rep. Park Kwang-on, the floor leader of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea, speaks at the National Assembly in Seoul, Sept. 18. Yonhap Lee University students Laurel Sanders and Katelyn Scheffer were named the 2023-24 Tucker Foundation Scholarship recipients in mathematics and natural science, respectively. Ms. Sanders is a mathematics education, Grades 6-12, major with a minor in religion. Originally from Kingsport, Tn., Ms. Sanders tutors math at Lee and is a member of L.E.A.P. (Learn- Engage- Achieve- Program). It is such an honor and a privilege to be selected as the mathematics Tucker Scholar this year, said Ms. Sanders. As my graduation approaches, I am extremely grateful for God's faithfulness and the kindness of the Tucker Foundation. Upon graduation, Ms. Sanders plans to begin teaching and start her masters degree in mathematics or education, as well as pursue a Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor of Education in later years. Laurel is clearly dedicated to becoming an excellent mathematics educator, said Dr. Laura Singletary, professor of mathematics at Lee. Her care for students and passion for teaching mathematics in meaningful ways is evident in how she approaches her coursework and her time in the classroom. This scholarship follows from her exceptional character, her commitment to excellence in learning and teaching, and her desire to inspire students in her future classroom. Ms. Scheffer, from Lenoir City, Tn., is a biological science major with an emphasis in pre-physical therapy. She serves as the chaplain and historian for Alpha Epsilon Delta, Lees health professional honor society, and serves as an assistant for an anatomy and physiology class lab and as a tutor in the Specimen's Lab. Receiving this award was a blessing, said Ms. Scheffer. With so much unknown about the future ahead of me, this award has relieved some of the financial worries and readied me to pursue a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. After graduation, Ms. Scheffer plans to go to physical therapy school and become a pediatric physical therapist. From the beginning, I was impressed with Katelyns drive and tenacity to achieve her goals, said Dr. Pamela Hobbs, assistant professor in health science at Lee. She is such a strong student, not only because of her intellect, but also because she is passionate about learning. Katelyn is very deserving of this honor, and I am so proud of her. The Tucker Foundation Scholarship for Science and Math was established in 2009 by a generous endowment grant from the Tucker Foundation. The scholarship is awarded each year to one senior science major and one senior mathematics major who are outstanding students from East Tennessee. The scholarship was introduced as part of an institutional initiative to enhance natural science and mathematics at Lee University. The endowed scholarship was established by the Tucker Foundation on behalf of Mr. and Mrs. Summerfield K. Johnston, Jr. For more information about the natural science and mathematics Tucker Foundation Endowed Scholarship, contact the Department of Natural Sciences at 614-8275. The 2023-2024 Tucker Scholars for Science and Math (left to right), Katelyn Scheffer and Laurel Sanders. Chattanooga Police are looking for more evidence in a shooting that was reported just before 10 p.m. Saturday night when a man with a gunshot wound showed up at the hospital. The wound to the 35-year-old is not life-threatening. Police are trying to confirm a crime scene, having been told the victim was walking, didnt see the suspect, and didnt know why he would have been shot. Anyone who may have information can call 698-2525 or use the Atlas One mobile app. You can remain anonymous. Thorough probes needed to reveal truth The previous Moon Jae-in administration has taken flak for allegedly manipulating economic data to conceal policy failures. The Board of Audit and Inspection (BAI) said Friday that key policymakers of the Moon government had engaged in distorting various statistics on home prices, income & distribution and employment. The BAI requested prosecutors to launch investigations into 22 figures, including four policy chiefs of the previous presidential office. They are Jang Ha-sung, Kim Su-hyun, Kim Sang-jo and Lee Ho-seung and Land Minister Kim Hyun-mi. The BAI claimed that the presidential office pressured the land ministry, Statistics Korea and the Korea Real Estate Board (REB) to manipulate relevant data in favor of the Moon administration. This was all done to make it look as if the government's policies to tame soaring apartment prices were successful. The presidential office and the ministry ordered the REB to "cook" apartment price data announced every week at least 94 times from 2017 to 2021, the BAI noted. They also exerted undue pressure on the statistical agency to distort data pertinent to income, distribution and hiring, the audit agency said. The Moon administration was desperate to contain surging real estate prices, with the ministry implementing a package of measures such as imposing high taxes on those owning more than one home, but to no avail. For starters, the REB was about to report that Seoul apartment prices were expected to increase 0.67 percent before releasing the numbers to the press. This prompted the presidential office to instruct the agency to "modify" the figure. In the face of such pressure, the REB lowered the estimate by 0.22 percentage point to 0.45 percent. In the process, it was discovered that the ministry had threatened to cut the budget for the REB, an affiliate of the ministry, unless the agency accepted its demand. Given this, the public distrust toward the REB's data continued to grow as its price estimates were far lower than those released by private organizations. For instance, Kookmin Bank released data showing housing prices soared by up to 100 percent during the four-year period of the Moon administration. In contrast, Kim, the land minister, asserted that the price increased only 14 percent during the same period based on the REB's data. Moon himself gave some seemingly nonsensical remarks that housing prices were beginning to stabilize. All this shows that Moon and his policymakers made false arguments based on manipulated data. The Moon government has also faced criticism for having allegedly tampered with statistics related to income-led growth. For one thing, the Moon administration falsely reported that household income rose by 1 percent in June, 2017, although it actually fell 0.6 percent, thereby showing that its much-touted policies were effective. The same year, the income distribution disparity widened further despite the administration's decision to drastically increase the minimum wage. Against this backdrop, the presidential office instructed the Korea Labor Institute to compile a report that showed that incomes rose in all classes, except for the bottom 10 percent of the wage bracket. Based on this, Moon made a seemingly nonsensical remark that the "positive impact of the minimum wage reached 90 percent." It remains to be seen whether the BAI's claims will be looked at as feasible for future investigations. Yet, statistics are the basis for policies and their distortion constitutes a grave crime: the manipulation of state affairs. Moon and the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea are strongly refuting the BAI's claims, dubbing them as political maneuvering. However, it is totally improper for the DPK to try to avoid the prosecution's investigations into the alleged bungling of policy during the previous administration. It is time to conduct thorough investigations to get to the bottom of the alleged data manipulation and take strict punitive measures against those who are responsible. That is the best way to prevent a possible recurrence of such unprecedented distortions of economic data from disturbing the administration of state affairs. The city of East Ridge borrowed $10 million to build a road into the new Gateway development where the Red Wolves stadium anchors residential and commercial buildings. The city has been unable to acquire all the right-of-way that is needed to build the road as originally planned. At the last council meeting, the decision was made to move the road onto property the city already owns and make it three lanes leading into the development. When that design was reviewed by ASA Engineering, the city owned land would only be large enough to build a two-lane road and that would not support the traffic that is anticipated. A new plan was approved by the council at the Thursday night meeting, to build the road in two phases. It will be built as originally designed but Phase 2 will be built when right-of-way acquisitions are complete. City Manager Scott Miller said prices of materials and labor continue to increase, so the sooner it is built the better to avoid borrowing more money. A complete survey has been done of the citys streets to determine the ones that are in the worst condition. That list is being used to prioritize the work. However in 2022-2023, only about 50 percent of the road resurfacing that had been planned was done because costs went up, said the city manager. The street resurfacing program for 2023-2024 is different than last year. Instead of repaving entire streets from end to end, only the segments of the roads where it is needed the most will be milled and resurfaced. The money will come from the State Street Aid fund with $1,778,000 available. The city council approved a contract with the Department of Safety and Homeland Security for a grant to place school resource officers in each of the citys public schools. This statewide SRO grant will provide up to $75,000 per year, per SRO, per school. The total contract with East Ridge is for $300,000. The East Ridge police officers that are moved into those positions will need to be replaced. A condition of receiving this grant is that the city must enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Hamilton County Department of Education that clearly defines the responsibilities and expectations concerning the SROs in the schools. The city council accepted other grants that have been rewarded to East Ridge, including one for three years, up to $190,762 from the Tennessee Office of Criminal Justice, Violent Crime Intervention Fund. It requires no matching funds from the city, and will be used to purchase equipment and technology to combat violent crime. Among other things, a drone and a van with a TV monitor to use as a command post for the drone will be acquired. Chief Clint Uselton said that this will put eyes on things without putting officers at risk and can be used by the fire department to go into buildings after a fire to check for hot spots. Other grants the city received include the Tennessee American Water Firefighter Support Grant in the amount of $1,000. It will assist in purchasing swift water gear to replace old worn gear. The city has applied for another grant from the state that would provide up to $40,000 per year for the next five years to aid in recruitment and retention of police officers. In the past the city stored data on the Hamilton County Sheriffs records management system. The city now has their own records system but in order to have access to the historical information stored with the Sheriffs Office, the city will pay $5,128 for one year. Property at 0 Spring Creek Road, behind the AMC Movie Theater, has been a homeless camp with large amounts of trash, debris and junk that has accumulated over the years. The city has no one to contact physically and gets no response to when citations are sent and the building and codes department has determined the property poses a threat to the general public. The city has gotten a bid for $44,900 and will proceed to clean it up. A lien will be placed on the property for the amount that the city spends. A settlement agreement has been made with Chetan Patel regarding the citys condemnation of property at 1500 Keeble St. which would have demolished the structure there. The owner has agreed to bring the property into full compliance with all building and property maintenance requirements. And he has to provide a remediation plan of phased improvements. The structure will also have to have an electrical inspection and meet those requirements. If the needed repairs are not made, the owner will have to go back before the judge, and pay a $50 per day fine. The city has been asked, many times, to waive fees for use of facilities that East Ridge owns. In the future, the approval for a fee waiver will be available only for non-profit organizations that provide a legitimate service and/or benefit to the East Ridge community, for department sponsored programs, from intergovernmental cooperation or for financial hardship, for one-time events. Any waiver will need to be approved by the city council. On the final vote, parking requirements for hotels/motels in the commercial tourism district, general commercial district and the planed commerce center in East Ridge were amended. The change is a reduction of parking spaces needed to just one space per room. Two properties in the city have been rezoned from single family residential, R-1 to R-3 district that allows apartments. Property at 636 and 650 Layfield Road is now R-3 and 1026 Green Lake Road was also zoned R-3. The quadplex located there will be improved and brought up to code. Mayor Brian Williams announced that the East Ridge Fall Festival will be Saturday, Oct. 7, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. There will be live music, art and craft vendors and food trucks, a petting zoo and childrens activities. The mayor also requests for East Ridge citizens to participate in the Parks and Recreation master plan survey that can be found on the citys website. A person on Peggy Lane told police about a suspicious package they had received earlier in the week. They said before receiving the package, a white male driving a blue truck had knocked on their door requesting for a package which had been mailed to their address. The contents of the package included one single sanitizer wipe. Police obtained the package and turned it into Property. * * * A man and his daughter-in-law drove up from North Georgia after his wife had a heart attack/stroke. They checked into a motel at 1100 Carter St. and parked their vehicle on the 2nd floor of the parking garage. The next morning, they noticed the front passenger seat had papers from the glovebox on it. They then noticed other items were thrown about inside the vehicle. The man checked his medication and other items and it appeared that $1,400 in cash had been stolen. There were several vehicle break ins overnight. It is very plausible the suspects will be the same ones related to other reports, said police. * * * A woman on Kimbro Street told police her 2019 Kia had been taken from her residence. The vehicle was entered into NCIC and a BOLO was issued. * * * A man on Ozark Circle told police the credit card monitoring service he uses notified him of inquiries made on his credit. The first inquiry was on Aug. 29 and there had been a total of seven. Two were through Yamaha, one for Deere Credit, one for Green Sky Loan out of Atlanta, one for CDNA/THD out of Gray, Tn., and two for other various credit cards. At this time, the only inquiries resulting in successful credit openings were one for Yamaha and the two credit card companies. The man closed both of the credit cards and had no transactions made. The man couldn't close the Yamaha credit account because it had an approximately $13,000 balance. The charge was on Aug. 31. The man didnt have the Yamaha location of the purchase. Police told the man to contact Yamaha's customer service department and find out the location of the purchase. Once he did this, he could also file a report in that jurisdiction. * * * A woman at Storage King at 5027 Hixson Pike called police to report a possible indecent exposure. Police arrived and spoke with a man and a woman who were physically separated. The man said he and the woman were in an argument over their storage unit. He stated the woman wrapped herself around his leg and began to yell at him. Police asked the man why she did this. He responded she was upset with him because of mistakes he has made with their finances. He was not in fear and didnt believe the woman was trying to harm him. Police watched video of this incident and saw the woman with her arms and legs wrapped around the mans leg while sitting on his foot. She didnt strike or push the man during the incident. The officer spoke to the woman who confirmed they were arguing. The officer told her to control her temper in the future and keep her hands to herself. She said she would. * * * A Walgreens manager at 2104 McCallie Ave. told police two black females, both dressed in black shirts and black shorts, came into the store and selected two packs of Cottonelle wipes and two packs of Huggies diapers. They placed the items in a large bag and left the store with the items without paying for them. They were last seen leaving the area in a white Hyundai sedan. Total value of theft was $36. * * * Police responded to a homeless person at Mariscos Vallarta at 2318 Shallowford Road. The anonymous caller said the man had been there before and he wanted police to have him leave. An officer spoke with the man and asked him to pack his things up because the person that owned the property didnt want him on it. The man was not originally from Chattanooga and had moved here from Indiana two years ago. He understood and packed his belongings up and left without incident. * * * A woman on Hixson Pike asked police to speak to one of her neighbors. She said he has been asking her and some of her other neighbors for money and cigarettes frequently. She said he is a nuisance around the apartment complex. An officer spoke with the neighbor and told him to leave the woman alone and that several people were complaining about his behavior. The man said he would work on it in the future. * * * A man was found to be on private property at 1150 Carter St. and security wanted him to be trespassed. The man was notified and he vacated the area. * * * While in the area of Chestnut Street, an officer saw a black Chevrolet Impala displaying a white temporary tag. The officer conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle for the darkness of window tint. The driver had two men occupants with him in the car. The occupants were in possession of a screwdriver and several black face masks. All occupants were released from the traffic stop with a verbal warning. * * * An officer conducted a well-being check at the intersection of Tunnel Boulevard and Shallowford Road. A woman said she was visiting her friend on N. Germantown Road. She said she was walking in the area and lost several of her items after passing out. She believed she possibly dropped her wallet while she was walking. The woman couldnt remember what her wallet looked like, but did say it would have her bank card and other miscellaneous cards inside. She was transported to the Community Kitchen at her request. * * * A woman called police and reported someone had thrown eggs at her car and other cars in the parking lot of Champy at 526 E. Martin Luther King Blvd. She suspected the eggs were thrown from the balcony of Douglas Heights, however she had no evidence of this. An officer saw egg shells and yolk on her car and the surrounding area. * * * A man told police someone was busting out windows at the nearby Hertz business parking lot at 5714 Lee Hwy. Police arrived and found a white Chevy Malibu, gray RAM 1500, and black Buick Encore with damage. All three of the vehicles had multiple shattered windows and broken mirrors. Dispatch attempted to notify the owner, however they were unable to make contact and left a voicemail. Dispatch attempted to make contact with the complainant but their phone went straight to voicemail. * * * A woman on Market Street told police she was asleep in her wheelchair when a woman approached her to charge her phone. The woman was right next to an outlet and the other woman woke her up while charging her phone. For unknown reasons, the woman then awoke another homeless man whom she didnt know. He was asleep on the bench next to her and he was grumpy when he was woken up by the woman. According to the woman, the man then yelled at her before leaving the area. She was adamant about having this documented and said she used to be a corrections officer in Florida and has since retired from social work here in Tennessee. * * * Police received a call about a possible animal cruelty on N. Crest Road. McKamey Animal Center made a call to police regarding monkeys being burned with cigarettes at the location. Police arrived and spoke with a woman who invited them in and let them examine the monkeys for signs of abuse, to which none was found. Police also noticed the womans house had no sight or smell of cigarettes. The headlines today, Gas prices rise 16 cents in Chattanooga. In January, 2021, the average price for a gallon of gas was $2.40. By June of 2022, prices peaked at $5.06 (Newsweek 9/2/23). Then Joe Biden sold 180 million barrels from our Strategic Oil Reserves to fight oil prices that had spiked on concerns about Russias war on Ukraine. Treasury said that sale cut gasoline prices by about 40 cents a gallon compared to what they would have been absent their release (Reuters 11/3/22). News stories (NPR 10/27/22) as well as postings on this forum told us politicians dont control energy costs. Presidents cant affect gasoline prices they chant but the US Treasury said Biden lowered prices by 40 cents a gallon. Sept 5, Russia and Saudi Arabia extended oil production cuts to the end of the year raising prices sharply (Reuters 9/5/23). On Sept 7, Biden cancelled seven Trump-era oil and gas leases in the Arctic which CNN laughingly claims wont affect gas prices. Jake Sullivan, Biden advisor, said, the president is doing everything within his toolkit to be able to get lower prices for consumers at the gas pump (Bloomberg, Chunzi Xu 9/7/23). Sullivan has made that exact same claim before last year(CNBC 7/15/22) When fuel prices soar, progressives roar with condescending tales of how Joe Biden cant affect prices. He cant that is until they need the US Treasury and Jake Sullivan tell us he can so he gets the credit for lower prices. So who is telling the truth? Ralph Miller The Chattanooga Public Library Foundation, in partnership with an anonymous donor, will offer a limited number of non-city resident library cards for free at the upcoming Fall Book Sale at Venue 701, Thursday through Sunday. Currently, library users who do not reside within the city limits of Chattanooga can purchase a Chattanooga Public Library card for $50. The card can be used to check out books, audiobooks, DVDs, tools, seeds and digital materials, as well as to reserve meeting rooms and the Recording Studio located at the Main/Downtown Library. The non-city resident library card was created in 2012 after a tax agreement between Hamilton County and the city of Chattanooga was not renewed. Since then, the Library has been funded solely by city taxpayers. We are so grateful for our donor, said Meg Crimmins Beene, chair of the Foundation. Because of their generosity, we can offer a limited number of cards to help residents outside the city access everything thats available through our phenomenal library. The Foundation is offering 70 cards, which will be available on a first come, first serve basis this week at the Fall Book Sale, at Venue 701, 701 Mississippi Ave. Anyone interested in applying can visit the Foundation table at the sale. After the sale, remaining library cards will be available at library branch locations. Additionally, the Library offers many services that do not require a library card. Anyone can attend fun, educational programs and use the public computers, 4th Floor Makerspace, Passports Acceptance Office, fax machines, printer/copiers and notary services. For more information about CPLs library locations, events, and more, please visit chattlibrary.org. alumnae across the United States gathered for GPS Founders Day, a school holiday designed to honor the legacy of our innovative, gutsy FoundersTommie Payne Duffy, Eula Lea Jarnagin, and Grace McCalliewhose intrepid resolve changed history for girls in Chattanooga 118 years ago. The nationwide meetups served as the official launch of GPSs new alumnae chapters, located in cities with the densest graduate populations. Each chapter is led by a GPS alum (or two) based in that community, with the intention of organizing regular events to celebrate sisterhood, reminisce, and connect. Cities whose chapters met on Tuesday included Chattanooga, Birmingham, Boston, and Knoxville; chapters in Houston, San Francisco, and Washington D.C. have events scheduled this weekend and into next week. Mary Margaret Arrowsmith 18, Boston chapter leader, said of their event, The Boston GPS alumnae chapter event was so much fun! It was a great way for the Boston Bruisers to connect by sharing GPS stories, giving advice on living in Boston, and generally catching up and getting to know each other better. Having GPS contacts in Boston makes the big city feel a little more like home." Lauren Waters Rice 03, who headed up the Birmingham gathering said, We connected with a lot of people and really enjoyed each other. Our young alums were so impressive, lovely, and brilliant. Chattanoogas event, held at the appropriately named Founders House, welcomed 90 alumnae back to campus. Kim Leffew, director of Alumnae Engagement, said, It was such a joy to welcome so many alumnae back to campus. We hosted women just a few years beyond GPS all the way to those who are celebrating their 65th reunion this year! There has been a lot of interest in these new alumnae chapters since we announced them, and we cant wait to see them continue to grow and flourish across the country. In addition to alumnae gatherings, Founders Day was celebrated by faculty, staff, and students during the school day with a picnic on Smith Courtyard and a special Chapel presentation featuring a GPS version of Bruiser Feud (a la Family Feud) with Team 2000s competing against Team 1990s. GPS history teacher Dr. Ralph Covino served as the Voice of History, and English teacher Lindsey King acted as emcee. GPS Alumnae Chapters Chattanooga Atlanta Birmingham Boston Charleston Charlotte Dallas/Fort Worth Denver Houston Knoxville Los Angeles Nashville New York Memphis Raleigh San Francisco Washington DC The Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission will set sportfish and commercial fishing regulations at a one-day meeting starting at 9 a.m. on Friday, at Buffalo Ridge Refuge in Humphreys County. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency previewed proposed regulation changes at the August commission meeting. The proposed regulations are posted on the TWRAs website and were available for a public comment period. If approved, the sportfish regulations will be effective March 1, 2024, and the commercial fishing regulations 30 days following the meeting. The Fisheries Division will also present its annual awards to the Fisheries Biologist and the Fisheries Technician of the Year. In addition, two Fisheries Division Lifetime Achievement Awards will be presented. The Wildlife Division will also present its annual awards including the Wildlife Biologist of the Year and the Wildlife Technician of the Year. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency will be celebrating 2023 National Hunting and Fishing Day on Saturday. On this special day, the rich tradition of fishing, hunting, and target shooting is observed to recognize the conservation efforts of sportsmen and women across the country. Wildlife and fisheries conservation in Tennessee is primarily funded by the sales of hunting and fishing licenses, boating registrations, and a portion of the Real Estate Transfer Tax. In addition to license sales, TWRA also receives federal grant funding from excise taxes on the sale and manufacturing of certain outdoor recreation gear, firearms, ammunition, and fishing equipment. National Hunting and Fishing Day was established by the U.S. Congress in 1972 to recognize hunters and anglers for their financial contributions to wildlife conservation. The event is celebrated in all 50 states annually on the fourth Saturday in September. In Tennessee, National Hunting and Fishing Day coincides with the start of the statewide fall archery season for deer and the fall archery season for turkey in selected counties. This year, it also is on the first day of autumn. We are grateful to have nearly one million licensed hunters, anglers, and boaters in the state of Tennessee who support wildlife conservation with their license purchases, said TWRA Executive Director Jason Maxedon. These funds support conservation programs, habitat acquisitions, and outdoor recreational opportunities, and we invite all Tennesseans to go outdoors and experience our beautiful natural resources. One of the main goals of National Hunting and Fishing Day is to recruit new hunters and anglers by encouraging participation and increasing public awareness of the connection between hunting, angling, and conservation. TWRA also offers events and classes throughout the year to welcome new people to outdoor recreation. Visit the events page at GoOutdoorsTennessee.com for more information. As part of National Voter Registration Day on Tuesday, the Unity Group is asking all eligible voters to "check your status", by reviewing, and if needed, updating your voter registration status. Voter information can be verified in a variety of ways. You may call or email your local election commission. You may review voter registration cards in order to make certain they are up to date. You may also check your status online through the Secretary of State's website. Voter participation has lagged in Tennessee communities. Numerous groups such as the PEW Research Center and World Population Review have analyzed statistical information and state that Tennessee ranks 40th in voter registration and close (48) to last in voter participation out of all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Likewise, the last wave of elections for the Chattanooga mayoral and municipal races were less than 30 percent in numerous polling places. Nevertheless, there are several ways we can remove barriers and better enhance voter registration and participation. Many groups and organizations have called for automatic registration during the obtaining and renewing of licenses and photo IDs. In fact, in 2019 students from Chattanooga submitted legislation which would have automatically registered 18 year olds as they obtained licenses and photo IDs. Restoring rights to ex-offenders is another potential area where we can increase voter participation. As reported by the New York Times earlier this year, Tennessee has a draconian process for restoring voting rights to ex-offenders which includes clemency from the governor's office, by court order, and by having fully paid legal fees and restitution. Currently, over 470,000 potential voters are denied the right to vote because of these measures. This prompted the Campaign Legal Center to file suit in 2020. We also believe there should be an expansion of early voting by at least one week. Included in this recommendation is the need for Sunday voting, commonly referred to as "Souls to the Polls." This is an occasion when churches, faith groups and the greater community emphasize the importance of voting and participation in the democratic process. Oftentimes congregants are transported to or stroll to the polls in an effort to raise voter awareness or cast ballots for candidates of their own choosing. Another way we can increase voter participation is to make college IDs permissible forms of identification at the polls. We urge all college students to register, obtain proper ID, learn your polling locations, and request an absentee ballot from your home election commission if you plan to vote in your county of origin. Finally, several concerns were witnessed because of the Chattanooga City District 8 special election of 2022. Voters were not informed that due to the 50 percent plus 1 standard found within the City Charter, in the absence of a candidate surpassing the 50 percent threshold in a multi-tiered race; a special election would be constituted where the two highest vote getters would be placed in a run-off. It was egregious that the processes and procedures that conducted the special election were not adequately conveyed to the residents of District 8. The failure of the Charter to clearly spell out the procedures of the special election, the absence of an official resolution that corresponded to those rules, and failure of government and election officials to provide pertinent information and guidance, left the voters of District 8 in a Zone of Twilight where there were concerns of polling place closures; a confounding and dumbfounding redistricting process; names that were thought to be purged from the rolls; and in some instances voters reported irregularities such as being given the wrong ballots. This cites the need to modernize and amend the City Charter in order to ensure fair electoral processes. Voting is one way we lift up our voices. We hope that eligible voters will register. Before you exercise your right to vote, we recommend that you learn the district numbers of your city council, county commission, school board, state and federal districts because they may be different and occur at different times in an election cycle. Learn your polling place because it may be altered because of Redistricting which occurred last year. Become aware of the process for mail-in and absentee voting. Most importantly, become an aware and informed voter. State and local officials also have a role in fair and equitable election processes and outcomes and should do all they can to remove voting barriers and hindrances such as the recommendations we have outlined. Voting is a right paid for with blood, sweat and tears, a right that should be afforded to all, and denied or abridged by none. Eric Atkins Unity Group of Chattanooga A Ringgold, Ga., woman is facing DUI and other charges after a four wheeler she was driving with four children under 10 inside crashed and two were injured. Michelle Ann Tyrrell, 33, was also charged with two counts of vehicular assault, two counts of reckless endangerment, driving an off-road motor vehicle on a public highway, and two counts of child abuse or neglect. The incident happened on Saturday in Hamilton County near the Tennessee-Georgia line. Three of the children were those of Ms. Tyrrell and the other was that of a friend. One of her children and the child of her friend were the most severely hurt. A deputy said when he got to the scene the vehicle was turned over and Ms. Tyrrell was holding one of the injured children in her arms. He said Ms. Tyrrell was hysterical. She said they had driven up Hurricane Manor Trail and turned onto Pine Brow Trail. She said the children began urging her to swerve the vehicle and she obliged, but then she lost control. The deputy said she had thick slurred speech and the odor of alcohol. He said she had other indicators of being intoxicated. She said she had had a couple of drinks. Ms. Tyrrell was taken to the jail for a blood alcohol test, and the injured children were taken to the hospital. Since 2017, Duggar family followers have theorized that Jill Dillard and her husband, Derick Dillard, were at odds with the rest of the Duggar family. In 2020, Derick Dillard confirmed a family rift. Since then, Jill has been speaking out, and her recent memoir, Counting the Cost, turned out to be the bombshell book family critics had long hoped would be published. In more than 300 pages, Jill recounted several moments where her father, Jim Bob Duggar, steamrolled his children and manipulated them, often for his own financial gain. His desire to control the familys media empire didnt stop at his biological children either. In her book, Jill recalled how Jim Bob responded when he saw her husband drinking a beer. Jim Bob Duggar suggested that the Arkansas-based lawyer go to rehab for his alcohol use. Jim Bob Duggar offered to send Derick Dillard to rehab over his alcohol consumption. The Duggar family patriarch, Jim Bob Duggar, stepped over a line after Jill Dillard and Derick Dillard put distance between themselves and her famous family. In Counting the Cost, Jill said Jim Bob Duggar got wind of Derick Dillard enjoying an alcoholic beverage and immediately reached out to offer assistance. According to Jill, her father offered to send Derick to rehab to cure his clearly raging alcoholism. Michelle Duggar and Jim Bob Duggar | Peter Kramer/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images Jill explained that Derick does not and has never had a problem with overindulging. She said that Derick declined Jim Bob Duggars offer to send him to rehab. She said he had never drunk more than two beers in a single sitting, nor had he ever been drunk. Jill said Derick pointed out that Jim Bob Duggar suspiciously did not comment on the alcoholic beverage Jill had enjoyed in a recent social media post, although its possible he did not realize what it was. The rehab Jim Bob Duggar was suggesting for Dericks perceived issues with alcohol was the same facility that treated Joshua Duggar. Josh Duggar entered rehab in 2015 for an addiction to pornography. The Rockford, Illinois facility is a faith-based recovery ministry. Do any other Duggars drink? The Duggar familys ultra-conservative Christian ministry denounces drinking alcohol. Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar abstain, as do many of their children, it seems. Still, a couple of Duggars dont seem to mind indulging in the occasional adult beverage. Jill Dillard and Derick Dillard appear in the Prime Video docuseries Shiny Happy People | Amazon Content Services LLC Jill and Derick Dillard enjoy an occasional drink together. Amy Duggar King, the Duggar familys rebellious cousin, doesnt seem to take issue with alcohol either. Her husband, Dillon King, owns a whiskey bar. Duggar family followers also suspected that Jinger and Jeremy Vuolo drink alcohol, despite Jim Bob Duggars objections. In 2023, Jinger set the record straight. The mother of two and influencer said that she personally does not drink. Still, she said, she doesnt believe consuming alcohol is a sin. Jeremy had a boozy college career. More recently, he posted a video that included a shot of Nova Easy Kombucha, an alcoholic Kombucha drink in 2022, according to Starcasm. Others inside the family seem to be avoiding the use of alcohol despite living on their own. Jessa Seewald and her husband, Ben Seewald, appear to abstain. The couple made it a point to note that they had ordered virgin pina colodas during their recent romantic getaway. The Netflix logo is shown on one of their Hollywood buildings in Los Angeles, California, U.S., July 12. Reuters-Yonhap SK Broadband, a major Korean internet service provider, said Monday that it will end the yearslong legal battle with Netflix over network usage fees. "We agreed to end all disputes and work together as partners for the future," the company said in a statement, without elaborating on details of the agreement. SK Broadband and Netflix have been in a legal dispute for years over network usage fees. SK Broadband has claimed Netflix has been free-riding, refusing to pay for the use of the network despite a huge traffic overload caused by its streaming service. It has said Netflix's traffic on its network exploded to 1,200 gigabits per second (Gbps) in September 2021 from 50 Gbps in May 2018 amid the popularity of "Squid Game" and other Korean-language drama series. But Netflix has argued that it is a double charge for SK Broadband to demand internet access fees because users are paying fees. In June 2021, a local court ruled in favor of the Korean company, saying that it is "reasonable" for Netflix to provide something in return for the service. Netflix appealed against the decision and the lawsuit has been pending. Meanwhile, as a follow-up to the agreement, SK Broadband, its telecommunications affiliate SK Telecom and Netflix signed a strategic partnership to join hands in strengthening customer service, according to SK Broadband. SK Broadband and SK Telecom will come up with new services to provide access to Netflix on their pay TV platform or smartphones starting the first half of next year. (Yonhap) Kevin Costner has been a Hollywood fan-favorite for decades after rising to fame for his work in movies like Silverado and No Way Out. A movie star known for his power in the industry, Costner is probably best known for his roles in dramas and romances. However, in recent years, Costner has emerged as a Western icon. As John Dutton in Yellowstone, patriarch of the Dutton clan and the sprawling family ranch, Costner has made waves and earned millions of new fans. Despite the shows record-breaking popularity, the show abruptly went on hiatus in November 2022, with little word as to what was next. Finally, Costner is speaking out about why he is stepping away from Yellowstone and why fans shouldnt expect to see him back on the series. Kevin Costner is the biggest star in Yellowstone Yellowstone follows the exploits of the Dutton family, landowners in Montana. From the volatile Beth to the conniving Jamie, every Dutton has their motivations and machinations, but one thing they all have in common is their respect for John Dutton, played by Costner. Imposing and serious, John fiercely defends the family ranch and legacy, placing only his familys needs above his love of the land. It surprised fans worldwide when Costner was announced as the lead of Yellowstone. It was his first major TV gig, and as it turned out, it would revitalize his career in a big way. The first season of Yellowstone debuted in 2018, and through late 2022, Costner was a staple presence on the show. What did Kevin Costner say about leaving Yellowstone? Luke Grimes and Kevin Costner | Paramount Network In December 2022, rumors started swirling that Costner was dissatisfied with conditions on the set of Yellowstone, but it wasnt until early September that Costner revealed the truth. As reported by People Magazine, Costner admitted during a child support hearing that he went through a long, hard-fought negotiation before deciding to leave the Western drama. Costner said that there were no scripts written for the second half of the fifth season, and that while he wanted to return for the sixth season, I couldnt help them any more. We tried to negotiate, they offered me less money than previous seasons, there were issues with the creative Costner said that he made a last-ditch effort to reprise his role as John Dutton, revealing that he asked his representatives to have the show pay me whatever, but that the producers behind Yellowstone werent willing to pay the $12 million suggested. Ive been told its a little disappointing that (its) the #1 show on TV, Im not participating, the legendary actor said. Whats next for the Yellowstone franchise? Fans might still get a chance to see Costner in action. The actor suggested that he filmed the second half of Season 5 before walking away from Yellowstone. While theres no release date for these new episodes, fans have long been hoping for a late 2023 release date. Still, Costner wont step away from the successful show without his just desserts. On the stand, Costner was asked if hed receive a payout from the new episodes he filmed for the fifth season. The actor replied, I will probably go to court over it. For now, all fans can do is wait and watch for any news that the hit show will return. For Costner, at least, its impossible to move on just yet while the remainder of the fifth season remains in flux. Miranda Hobbes graduated from Harvard Law School and will earn her master's degree from Columbia University eventually. Still, we do not know where the 'Sex and the City' lawyer earned her undergraduate degree. Sex and the City premiered in 1998 when Carrie Bradshaw and her pals, Miranda Hobbes, Charlotte York, and Samantha Jones, were in their 30s and 40s. The foursome was long out from their college years, but a few of the shows main characters did mention their educational backgrounds. We know that Charlotte, Samantha, and Miranda attended college, but do you remember exactly where Miranda Hobbes earned her degrees? Where did Miranda Hobbes earn her bachelors degree? Miranda Hobbes was already a lawyer when Sex and the City opened, so the college she attended for her undergraduate degree was never mentioned. In fact, only one Sex and the City character ever said where they received their undergraduate degree. Charlotte York revealed she attended Smith College. Samantha Jones noted that she attended college, but she never mentioned where she went. Still, we can make some assumptions about Mirandas collegiate career. Miranda was originally from Philadelphia and never mentioned living away from the East Coast. She was not a fan of the West Coast when the friend group visited California in season 3, so its safe to assume she did not attend college in California. We can safely assume Miranda Hobbes likely went to a college located in the Northeast or New England. While she never mentioned it, Penn State feels like a good fit for Miranda as an undergraduate. Miranda Hobbes is a graduate of Harvard Law While Miranda never mentioned where she earned her undergraduate degree, she was rather proud of her law school alma mater. Miranda graduated from Harvard Law School in 1990. While she was eight years out from her time at Harvard when the series began, she mentioned it repeatedly. She also attended Harvard-sponsored events and consistently drank from a Harvard Law coffee cup. Harvard University | Scott Eisen/Getty Images Miranda is believed to have been born in 1966. That means she would have graduated from Harvard at 24 years old. Traditionally, a full-time student would complete law school in three years. Based on the dates, it is safe to assume that Miranda chose to attend law school immediately upon her undergraduate graduation. The legal eagle has returned to school in And Just Like That Miranda spent most of her career working in corporate law, but when And Just Like That, the Sex and the City reboot, opened, Miranda was headed on a new adventure. Instead of finishing up her career in corporate law, Miranda opted to return to school to earn a degree from Columbia. According to the series, Miranda is pursuing a masters degree. Miranda Hobbes | Craig Blankenhorn / HBO Max The degree program she is pursuing in And Just Like That is Human Rights Studies, and it is an actual degree program offered at Columbia University. The program requires 30 credit hours and a thesis for graduation, according to the University. When And Just Like That premiered in 2021, Miranda was just beginning her academic journey at the renowned school. Christine Brown has no interest in friendship with Robyn Brown and apparently she never did. The 'Sister Wives' star recently revealed that sh would have rejected Robyn's friendship no matter what. Now that Sister Wives is in its 18th season and most of Kody Browns marriages have ended, the family is pulling back the curtain. The wives who have left the plural marriage behind, in particular, are starting to dredge up the past, pointing out key moments from the disintegration of their plural marriage. Christine Brown is taking Sister Wives fans back to Las Vegas, explaining exactly why she has no relationship with Robyn Brown. In the most recent episode, Christine said that Robyn did not seek out her friendship, as she claimed, but that it wouldnt have mattered even if she did. Robyn Brown doesnt understand why Christine Brown never wanted to be her friend Jealousy is common in polygamy. It was a common theme in the Brown family long before TLC came knocking. Most of the wives admit that. While the family attempted to present a united front during the shows earliest seasons, that fell apart quickly. Now, fans are being treated to different perspectives on jealousy and friendship among sister wives by the four women Kody Brown married. In the Sept. 17 episode of Sister Wives, Robyn Brown opened up about her desire to be friends with Christine Brown early in her marriage. She insisted she sought to develop a friendship with Christine while they lived in Las Vegas. She went on to say it never took root despite repeated attempts. Christine insists that isnt how she remembered things. The mother of six said Robyn did not try to create a close relationship with her when she first entered the family. She certainly didnt try to foster a friendship in more recent years, when the family argued for months over coronavirus (COVID-19) safety protocols. Christine admits that she wouldnt have accepted Robyn Browns friendship regardless While Christine Brown denied that Robyn Brown had actively sought out her friendship, it wouldnt have made much of a difference. Despite trying to put a positive spin on most things, Christine didnt have anything positive to say about Robyn in this particular confessional. Christine said that it wouldnt have worked out even if Robyn had sought out her friendship. She matter-of-factly told the camera, I wouldve rejected her friendship anyway. Christine Brown and Meri Brown | TLC/YouTube Christine explained that she couldnt trust Robyn Brown and would have never wanted to be her friend. Friendship also isnt on the table for Christine and Kodys first estranged wife, Meri Brown. In the episode, Christine admitted that she wasnt a gracious wife to Meri. Meri and Christine both seem perfectly fine with not having maintained a relationship. Where are Christine Brown and her former sister wives now? Friendship isnt on the table, and that seems more than fine for most members of the Brown family. There is plenty of physical space between the former plural family to ensure they never have to run into each other again. Christine Brown | TLC/YouTube Christine currently lives in Salt Lake City with her fiancee, David Woolley. The duo are set to walk down the aisle next month. Salt Lake City is an eight-hour drive from Flagstaff. Meri Brown lives in Parowan, Utah, at a small bed and breakfast she purchased while actively involved with the Brown family. Her departure from Flagstaff, Arizona, will be featured in season 18 of Sister Wives. Parowan is five hours from Flagstaff and three hours from Salt Lake City. Kody and Robyn Brown still live in Flagstaff with their five children. Janelle Brown maintains an apartment in Flagstaff but appears to have spent most of the summer traveling. She has spent a fair bit of time in Utah with Christine Brown in recent months. A team led by Professor Osami Shoji at Nagoya University in Japan has developed a technology to convert methane, the principal component of natural gas, into Methanol at room temperature in water. They used an enzyme that can be easily mass-produced, offering the possibility of a cheap and effective means to reduce the carbon footprint of natural gas. They published the results in ACS Catalysis. New technology converts a component of natural gas, methane (left), to methanol (right), using the P450BM3 enzyme (middle, grey) with a decoy molecule (middle, colored). This method can be a cheap and effective mean of reducing the carbon footprint of natural gas. Ariyasu Shinya Methane is the key component of natural gas and an abundant natural resource. However, it is chemically stable, requiring huge amounts of energy before it undergoes chemical conversion. One solution is to convert methane to methanol. Methane can be converted to methanol, which is cleaner than other fossil fuels and can be easily stored and transported. Converting methane to methanol can be done using the methane monooxygenase enzyme. However, the enzyme has a complex structure, making it difficult to handle and unsuitable for mass production. Enzymes are usually very specific, often compared to a key for a particular lock. Converting methane to methanol using enzymes other than methane monooxygenase was thought to be impossible. However, the research group turned to their previous work on the addition of chemically synthesized molecules to an enzyme to change the characteristics of the enzyme itself. This enables the chemical conversion of compounds that would not normally be accepted, a process called a substrate misrecognition system. In this system, artificial molecules called decoy molecules are designed and synthesized to resemble the compounds, called substrates, that the target enzyme usually accepts, said Shoji. When added to the enzyme, the enzyme mistakenly takes in the "decoy molecules" as the original target compound, and the enzyme is activated. If a molecule, in this case methane, that is normally unreactive, is added to the enzyme, the enzyme will mistake the decoy molecule for the original target compound and take it in. The activated enzyme then converts the methane to another molecule by mistake. The research group used chemical enzyme control technology on the enzyme P450BM3. It hydroxylates long-chain fatty acid molecules and has been used to convert similar substances such as benzene, ethane, and propane. However, as these substances are more reactive and larger than methane, methane conversion presented a greater challenge. The group next searched for decoy molecules with an optimal structure to anchor the smallest methane molecule in the reaction pocket of P450BM3. The researchers investigated about 40 molecules that had been found to be effective in ethane hydroxylation from a library of about 600 decoy molecules. In a breakthrough, Shoji confirmed that the most efficient decoy molecule could convert methane to methanol in water at room temperature. When we tested it, we successfully converted methane to methanol using P450BM3, said Shoji. This was an exciting breakthrough as P450BM3 is derived from the bacterium Priestia megaterium (formerly Bacillus megaterium), making it is easy to handle and produce in large quantities using E. coli. This makes it an attractive new option for the effective utilization of methane gas. One day, decoy molecules could enable the conversion of compounds less difficult than methane. We expect that the technology can be developed into a low-energy, environmentally friendly conversion technology for many other hydrocarbons besides methane, said Shoji. Therefore, it is expected to contribute to the promotion of the use of enzymes in the discovery of low environmental impact substance conversion technologies in Japan. We expect this achievement to have a significant impact on the fields of catalytic and enzymatic chemistry. Dr. Beth Harp was recently announced as the tribes new executive medical director of Cherokee Nation Health Services. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close When Cayetana Navarro took a look at the strategic plan of the Cheshire Historical Society, one thought came to mind. It felt like it was backwards, said Navarro, who has been the Historical Society President for more than a year, having taken over for Diane Calabro when she moved into the position as Town Historian. I thought, how can we do all this work if we dont know whats in the collection? That collection to which Navarro is referring is housed in the Hitchcock-Phillips House, longtime home to the Historical Society and itself one of Cheshires oldest and most well-known structures. For years, the house has served as a depository of old items, some with direct connections to Cheshires past, others simply from a bygone era. Yet, as Navarro looked at the items filling up each room of the Hitchcock-Phillips House, she came to a simple conclusion. I wanted to be able to leave (the end of her two year term) and say, We know whats in the collection. For more than a year, Navarro and a team of volunteers have been combing through each item at the house, deciding what stays as part of the collection and what goes. Certain items hold obvious historical significance, such as the portraits of Civil War-era residents who distinguished themselves during the conflict. Others, however, didnt seem to add much, either because they were duplicates of items or did not have a direct connection to Cheshires past. If it doesnt have a direct tie to Cheshire Navarro stated. We dont want to be telling stories about other peoples stuff. And telling stories is exactly the goal of the Historical Society and its diligent chronicling of the Societys items. As teams were organized, they were given specific rooms and displays to sift through. Doing so, Navarro believed, would let us know what stories we should be telling. She recalled that, throughout the process, volunteers would report back about finding different items. We would stumble upon something and say, Oh my God, this is incredible, she recalled. One such discovery occurred when a volunteer, tasked with going through the numerous ribbons collected over the years, asked if each one had to be looked at and identified. I said, Show me the ribbons, Navarro remembered. What she discovered was that many were from the Connecticut 20th Regiment, given to Civil War veterans when they would come back for a reunion. The 20th Regiment had so many local veterans, one company was referred to as the Cheshire Company. Thats when you begin to believe, ok, the story is beginning to reveal itself, said Navarro. Its tangible. Items that were not deemed part of the collections future have either been offered back to the families or individuals who donated them in the first place, or in some cases to neighboring historical societies for whom the material might hold more significance. Then, the goal was to divide the displays up so that each room presents a more cohesive representation of Cheshire history. For instance, one of the more popular rooms in the home has been the toy room, with examples of 18th and 19th century toys on display. Because of the nature of some of the toys, the room has taken on a spooky presence for some, even becoming the focus of local paranormal investigation teams efforts in 2013. However, the room had been cluttered with items other than toys, so Navarro made sure that the collection is now cohesive, with only toys as the focus. Another room, which had also been cluttered with a wide variety of differing items, has been turned into a kitchen-focused area that will take visitors through what items would normally appear at the kitchen table of a 17th, 18th, and 19th century Cheshire home. The Hitchcock-Phillips House itself has been another focus of the inventory project. While the old home serves as the Societys headquarters, it is also a structure with its own significance, and Navarro wants to make sure that those visiting get a sense of the structures history as well. The history of this house is the history of Cheshire itself, said Navarro. As of August, Navarro estimated that 98% of the inventory project had been completed. Several rooms had already been set up while others were a work in progress. The ultimate use of a small number of rooms was still being debated. However, Navarro could already see the story of Cheshire and the Historical Society taking shape, and she hopes that story is complete by the time her term ends in 2024. What I want is, (when the project is finished) if you come in and you just like to see old homes, you can see an old home. If youre interested in Cheshire history, its here. And if you want to do research, you can (utilizing documents that will be cataloged in an easy-to-navigate way, she said. This June 11, 2017 file photo shows then lawmaker Kim Dong-cheol, right, speaking during a news conference at the National Assembly in Seoul. Korea Times file Kim Dong-cheol, a former four-term lawmaker, on Monday was appointed as the new CEO of the troubled state-run utility firm Korea Electric Power Corp. (KEPCO), company officials said. The appointment was approved at a temporary shareholders' meeting held at the KEPCO headquarters in the southwestern city of Naju earlier in the day, after the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy last month recommended Kim as the sole candidate for the next CEO. His appointment is subject to approval by President Yoon Suk Yeol. If approved, Kim will be the first politician-turned-CEO of the utility firm since its establishment in 1961. KEPCO's top post has been vacant since May, as then KEPCO CEO Cheong Seung-il quit, holding himself responsible for the company's snowballing losses and financial woes. Last year, KEPCO suffered a record-high operating loss of 32.6 trillion won ($24.59 billion), more than quadruple from a year earlier, due mainly to high global energy prices and limited hikes in electricity rates. As of end-June, KEPCO's total debt had come to 201.4 trillion won, the largest amount among all Korean listed firms, according to government data. Kim, 67, worked for the Korea Development Bank for about seven years before joining the political circle as an aide to a lawmaker in 1989. He won his first parliamentary seat in 2004 and served as a lawmaker until 2020. Kim had mostly been affiliated with liberal parties, and served as a floor leader of the now-defunct People's Party and the minor Bareunmirae Party. In 2021, Kim worked for Yoon to support his presidential election bid and served as a member of his transition team last year. (Yonhap) Ecuador is among the top five biggest cacao producers in the world and home to the most rare and flavorful cacao variety, Nacional. The cultivation of Nacional cacao can be traced back 5,000 years ago in what is now the Zamora Chinchipe province in Ecuador. Its beans are encased by shriveled yellow pods that typically take on an elongated form. This cacao variety gives off a rich, fragrant aroma. When made into chocolate, it tastes delicate, smooth, and seductively sweet. Unfortunately, Nacional cacao is in danger of becoming gone for good. Ecuador reached its peak popularity in the late 1800s and early 1900s after it was integrated into the world economy as part of the cocoa trade. Europe became obsessed with chocolate, and European colonizers began planting Nacionals themselves. But in 1916, a disease called frosty pod rot ravaged cacao trees across Ecuador. By 1919, it was thought that Nacional trees had been completely wiped off the face of the earth. As a result, growers introduced new foreign and hybrid varieties in an effort to make their crops more resilient. The beans produced from the new trees required less maintenance, were more resistant to disease, and generated higher yields. However, their flavor profile was nowhere near as complex as the Nacional variety. At the beginning of the 2010s, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and an American chocolate company based in Peru discovered cacao trees in Peru that contained ancient Nacional DNA. Local cacao farmers and activists are now working together to revitalize the population of the legendary Nacional trees. Growers in Ecuador have always been proud of Nacionals legacy, but the hybrid cacao varieties are more fruitful and earn them more money. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox. Im a textbook middle child. Ive spent a lifetime perfecting the art of placation, walking fine lines and threading needles. For years as a pastor, I relied on such diplomatic instincts to shepherd a politically and theologically diverse congregation. In our current era of heightened polarization, it has become more challenging to carve out a place where people with serious differences can fellowship and worship together. Still, carving leaves a void. You keep everyone in the same room, but to what end? Neutrality suppresses incendiary topics and calls it peace. Most people with strong beliefs distrust middle ground, especially when convinced that their perspective is biblical truth that must be fiercely defended. Decades ago, Sen. Barry Goldwater observed this tendency: Frankly, these people frighten me. Politics and governing demand compromise. But these Christians believe they are acting in the name of God, so they cant and wont compromise. To the purists, the middle is where hard truth gets watered down, making it more palatable and less meaningful. Even God shows a disdain for the lukewarm in-between (Rev. 3:16). Be hot or cold, but dont be tepid. No wonder many congregations have homogenous viewpoints. Half of US Protestant churchgoers say theyd prefer attending a church where people hold similar political views, Lifeway Research found, and more than half think the members of their church already do. Sometimes, this unity is obtained through attrition, as unwelcome voices simply leave. Of course, not all arguments are equally valid. Truth isnt relative and sin matters. And when it comes to the most essential, common Christian convictions, there is not room for debate. Christian orthodoxy remains orthodox. But here is the paradox: In many matters that polarize believers, there is at least a grain of theological truth in the views we personallyperhaps adamantlyoppose. We cannot abandon that truth without also compromising our witness. Rather than adopting a middle child approach of minimizing very real conflicts or retreating to our corners, what if we embraced the tension? Could we allow for the existence of conflicting views in a manner that better testifies to the gospel we profess to share? The way forward, I believe, lies in rediscovering the center rather than chasing the middle. Though they sound similar, these ideas are not synonymous. We arrive at the middle by beginning at the extreme positions and finding the point equidistant from both. Or we track where the majority lands and follow suit. To seek the middle is to seek the median or the mean. Article continues below In contrast, the center is better thought of as the center of gravity. In this sense, being centered means remaining with what is essential. Pressure from all sides forces you to drill deeper into that crucial core. To paraphrase preacher and theologian P. T. Forsyth, the center is not the place from which we calculate the middle, its the place from which we live. For the church, the center is not an ideology or even a doctrine. It is Christ himself. And we find the center of his work on the cross. That is where the church derives its existence. It is also where we see tension personified as Jesus held his human and divine natures in a perfectly incomprehensible union. Though interpretation of the Atonement itself can be a source of conflict, the Cross is far bigger than the box we build around it. It is where we see God work through paradox and where we see the cost of doing so. Christ exercised true freedom on the cross by choosing complete submission to the authority of his Father, and he demonstrated his power through refusing to access it to escape. The function of a paradox is not to solve opposition but to be transformed by living in the middle mystery of them, performance artist Scott Erickson wrote on Instagram. In his church history classes for Fuller Seminary, Charles Scalise often noted that Gods character encompasses the two paradoxical pillars of holiness and love, but his children cannot readily do the same. As limited human beings, we have trouble grasping both qualities simultaneously. Holiness is by nature exclusive, where love is inclusive. One separates God from all that is impure or imperfect, while the other invites his impure, imperfect creatures to draw near and find grace. We need both a holy God worthy of worship and a loving God full of mercy and compassion. Yet in our fallen, finite state, each of us tends to emphasize either holiness or love, which generates conflict when we come together. This sort of conflict was present in the earliest days of the church. Consider Paul and Barnabas in Acts 15, clashing over whether to include Mark on their second missionary journey. Paul leaned toward holiness and drew tight boundaries based on Marks past record. Mark had abandoned them previously; why repeat the same mistake? Barnabas showed a preference for love, believing in second chances and extending grace. Hadnt Paul himself needed an opportunity for redemption? Wasnt his present ministry the result of receiving the benefit of the doubt? Article continues below Both men had legitimate concerns, the tension may have felt insurmountable, and they could not find a compromise. Holiness and love reached a stalemate, humanly speaking, and the two men parted ways. Looking to Jesus, though, we see he often refused to reduce the tension in order to appease his listenerseven when faced with seemingly clear immorality. The story of the woman caught in adultery shows Jesus steadfastly holding to both holiness and love as he tells the woman, Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more (John 8:11, NKJV). Today, there are those who insist, The church needs to take a stand for truth and others who remind us, Christ said the world will know us by our love. Yet if both holiness and love equally exhibit Gods character, and if Christ held both intact on the cross, then to overemphasize one and neglect the other is to misrepresent his nature. The single story creates stereotypes, author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie famously said. And the problem with stereotypes is not that they are untrue, but that they are incomplete. The extremes are where our Christian witness suffersnot the center. Churches are often tempted to draw lines of demarcation. Yet doing so ignores an important truth: Other committed Christians have valid theological and missiological reasons for standing on the opposite side of some of the lines we draw. When we grasp for control, we shut off opportunity for dialogue and growth. The intensity in our conflicts often stems from fear. Fear that the church is abandoning Scripture and accommodating culture. Fear of excluding someone. Fear that associating with the church makes us bigoted and judgmental. Fear of offending or causing someone to stumble. But Christ stepped into dread. Taking a simplistic stance on an issue minimizes conflict, dressing the wound as if it were not serious (Jer. 6:14). Building a cross-centered church means responding to every thorny issue via the paradoxes of Calvary. The crucified Jesus has profound capacity and creativity to address each one. The Cross is the great corrective of all our lopsided certainties. It humbles and reproves us when we are sure of our own rightness and graciously pardons us when we admit our arrogance and failings. Article continues below Our desire for others to change and come around to our position on essential matters may be biblically sound. But that doesnt mean their pathway into truth will be instant or direct. To again paraphrase Forsyth, we cant press the full light of the Cross on those who are only starting to feel its dawn. The middle child in me always prefers peacekeeping; my adult self is learning to allow tension. While the middle settles for a ceasefire, the center offers the unity only Christ creates. As we see ever-increasing reasons for division, the Cross erases the distinctions with our common need for redemption (Gal. 3:28). It insists we share one God and Father of all (Eph. 4:6). Being centered is neither extreme nor watered down, but rather grounded and full of convictiona daily pursuit of the one who invites us to pick up our own crosses and follow him. J. D. Peabody pastors New Day Church in Federal Way, Washington, and is the author of Perfectly Suited: The Armor of God for the Anxious Mind. Speaking Out is Christianity Todays guest opinion column. [ This article is also available in and . ] Have something to add about this? See something we missed? Share your feedback here. In the fall of 1992 I walked into the worship service of a young church plant in New York City. A friend suggested I visit. There are only a handful of churches left in New York City that are growing and not dying, he told me. Redeemer is one of them. At the time, New York City was known as the graveyard of pastors. Several major churches had closed in the preceding years, with many pastors leaving their positions. I walked into a small congregation of about 60 people (I was told that combined, there were up to 200 regulars) in a rented church. I had just returned from my graduate school study in Japan, following my liberal arts education at Bucknell University. There I had learned from Nihonga (Japanese-style painting) masters to apply traditional Japanese techniques to contemporary art. God brought me to New York City with an ambition to be the best artist that I could be, but it was also clear to me that apart from Jesus, I lacked the courage to pursue such a dream in the greatest art city in the world. From my experience of being involved in evangelism through a parachurch movement as a new Christian, I knew that someone had to be a faithful presence in the art world. I was walking in faith into an impossible dream. On that autumn day more than 30 years ago when I visited Redeemer Presbyterian, I heard Tim Keller preach the Bible for the first time, sprinkling in quotes from Flannery OConnor and Shakespeare. I thought to myself, That was just like Bucknell humanities lectures, but it was centered on Jesus! I was riveted. The next week, Tim sent a handwritten letter, welcoming me to New York City as a fellow Bucknellian. It took several years of sitting under Tims teaching and joining the elders board for me to decide to move my family into the city. In 1995, we moved into an underdeveloped area of downtown between Wall Street and SoHo that would eventually be known as Tribeca (the shortened form of Triangle Below Canal Street). This area we moved into would also later be known as Ground Zero. Tribeca was then known for daily reports of violence and gang activities, but by the late 90s, NYC in general saw a great reduction of crimes and Tribeca became one of the posh neighborhoods. The typical pattern was true: Young couples living in Battery Park, for example, in units designed for DINKs (dual income no kids) decide to have children and stay because of the good new public schools in the neighborhood. Of course, the rent then skyrockets, and artists usually get kicked out, only to move to another pregentrified part of the city, like Williamsburg (which is now quite posh). Article continues below If attempting to make it as an artist was an impossible dream as a follower of Christ, then moving my family with three small children into the heart of New York (as friends told us) was ludicrous. But Tim exhorted us as leaders that to truly love the city, we had to be fully incarnate, present to live out our faith in the exilic city of New York: to love the city but not to be of or against the city. This formed the basis for my approach to culture at large, what I later called culture care. Tony Carnes, a sociologist and fellow elder at Redeemer, stated that it is seldom in history where we can carefully document a city being spiritually transformed as we can for New York City, starting in the early 90s. I remember the moment that Tim shared with us elders that we needed to relocate our services to Hunter College auditorium, which holds over 800 people. We looked at each other and asked, Ok are we all going to sit in front and huddle up? Were going to look rather silly, with at most 100 people, with all the empty chairs. That first service, we put ropes in the aisles of the empty rows, and all 50 of us sat in front. After helping launch the Village Church (Redeemers first daughter church) in the mid-1990s, I often returned to evening services. The empty chairs began to fill up, and soon we (introvert artists) ended up in the balcony, listening to Tim preach from afar. The rest is, literally, history. Redeemers growth corresponded to New York Citys transformation, as if it was an answer to Tims prayers to seek the prosperity of the exilic city that God called us to. As the city prospered, the Redeemer movement prospered. Many credit the impact of 9/11 as the inflection point in the growth of Redeemer. I see this inflection point earlierin the mid-90s when Redeemer chose to plant churches rather than grow exponentially into one huge church. Tim encouraged several leaders (I was the first to volunteer) to begin this process, looking first to Greenwich Village. I gave Tim a ride home after he spoke to an arts fellowship group at NYU one day. As we drove in my old Camry wagon, looking over the East River on the bridge to Roosevelt Island where he and Kathy lived, he said, You came to New York to have your ambition be molded. I have as well. New York is the best place to grow as a Christian leader because the city will challenge you to bring out your best and, at the same time, challenge you to deal with the worst of you. I found myself thinking about this often, as an extraordinary challenge to follow Christ in the city and realize my own limitations. Article continues below He called me one day after an elders meeting and mentioned an artists name that was on a long list of regulars for each of our elders to follow up with. I was surprised that he even remembered her name. (The congregation had doubled in a span of six months.) He asked me if I was following up with her, and I said Yes, but after I call the other 20 on my list. He said to me, Mako, I know that in a growing church, it feels overwhelming to follow up with everyone. But its important to, even if it seems impossible to keep up. That was the number one lesson of pastoring: Follow up and do so even if it seems impossible and overwhelming. I did call her the next day. She was quite surprised that I did, and though we did not solve any issues that she wanted to address by the end of the conversation, I got to know herand her artbetter. After 9/11, Redeemer did end up growing exponentially in terms of numbers. In the greater New York City area, Tims teaching and theology had an even more substantial impact. I accompanied Tim to join some serious heavyweights in the art world several times. These were early leaders in the LGBT community, well established outside the church. I find it fascinating that so much of the pushback Tim received for his stance on marriage and womens roles in the church came from Christian communities, while these leaders outside the church took to heart many things Tim sharedeven issues they vehemently disagreed with. That was because Tim deeply respected them, and many of them also respected Tim in return, both sides willing to spend time listening and learning from each other. To this day, I count it as my privilege to get to know brothers and sisters in communities that many evangelical leaders have labeled as plagues to avoid. Tim kept on reminding meespecially on days when I found myself frustrated that my artist friends were not seeing Gods love or when our church friends could not see the value in these same artistsMako, we have to believe that the gospel can change anybody. Article continues below It was as early as the mid-1990s when the impact of Tims ministry to New York City began to be felt internationally. When I returned from my trips to Asia in those years, I would tell Tim about discovering that someone completely unrelated to Redeemer was listening to his sermon tapes. I was a willing accomplice to this growth, bringing a box full of audiotapes with me on my travels. On the day Tim took his last breath, I was on my way to Shanghai for an exhibit at the C3 Museum that pairs my work with exquisite imperial Chinese porcelains in the museums remarkable collection. This exhibit was organized by a gallery that began when City to City church planter and Tims dear colleague Jay Kyle introduced me to a group of leaders in Taipei. Thus, indirectly, I was in Shanghai because of Tim and the City to City movement that Redeemer spurred. When we walked into my exhibit at C3 Museum in Shanghai, I was startled to find my painting A Leaf by Niggle there. Of course, this had been planned months before with my approval by my gallery organizing the exhibit, but the painting greeted me unexpectedly like an old friend. After about a hundred layers of finely pulverized azurite and malachite in thin washes of water, the tree in this painting was almost invisible. For many years, there was very little image there. But now, the subtle watermarks had become a fully embodied image. The leaves and the invisible watermark of the tree had become fully manifested. This painting, like so many other things in my life, was influenced by Tim. It was Tim that encouraged me to read this little known J.R.R. Tolkien story of the same title: Its a fascinating tale, one of my favorites. A must-read for an artist, he told me. Much of my theology (which I now call theology of making) is based in part on those conversations with Tim that highlighted Jesus as our Creator. Niggle came up many times in this context. Those who know Tolkiens story will appreciate the similarities to the transformation in my painting. I was startled to find, 22 years later, that the painting is completely whole now. As the watermarks revealed themselves more and more over the years, the tree had generatively become complete. I suppose new creation is like that. Our efforts of faith, like watermarks, may remain invisible for many eons. And yet Gods indelible grace will eventually reveal the true art of our lives. May Tim now see the forests of Niggles leaf, so faithfully and well done. Article continues below When we drove into New York City after our trip to Shanghai, I felt my heart sink. There was a huge empty hole in the sky. I realized that I had not experienced the city I had come to love for over 30 years without Tims presence. Perhaps in the decades to come, more sociologists will speak of the catalytic influence that Tim Keller had in New York Citys transformation. Perhaps he will be remembered as one of the greatest preachers of his generation, perhaps even of modern times. What I will remember is the story that Tim gifted me withand the tenacity of stewardship to love the city and her artists, to follow up, to do the impossible of being a pastor of a growing church and a growing international movement unmatched by any Christian leader in recent memory. When the elders looked at Tim incredulously after he told us that we should relocate to Hunter College, he said, We only get one chance to do this. I am glad I was in the room to hear that, to witness and affirm the conviction of a courageous leader who saw a Kingdom opportunity in front of him and pushed us forward into a whirlwind of grace over Manhattan and beyond. Makoto Fujimura is a contemporary artist and is the author of several books including Faith and Art: A Theology of Making. Have something to add about this? See something we missed? Share your feedback here. Activist group pressures military base to remove Christian bookstore A secular legal group has threatened a military base with the possibility of a federal lawsuit if it doesn't remove a Christian bookstore, arguing that its existence on the base is a violation of the First Amendment. Faith2Soar is a Christian bookstore owned by veteran Josh Creson and his family. One of the store's locations is in Spring Lake, North Carolina, and last September, Creson opened another at a mini-mall on Fort Liberty, a North Carolina military base. Mikey Weinstein, founder and president of the Military and Religious Freedom Foundation nonprofit, contends that it violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution for the military to allow a Christian store to operate on the base. He wrote a letter last month to Lt. General Christopher T. Donahue, commanding general XVIII Airborne Corps and Fort Liberty, objecting to what he asserted was an endorsement of "fundamentalist Christianity." Weinstein told The Christian Post that he wouldn't have a problem with a faith-themed store operating at a local mall but allowing the store on a military base raises concerns about the government establishing a religion in violation of the Constitution. According to Weinstein, his organization represents 211 U.S. Army personnel, including 165 Christians, who have complained about the store. The civil rights activist alleged that the military personnel came to MRFF due to concerns about retribution from the chain of command. "We don't blame the store," Weinstein told CP, adding that he was sure the owner was a "nice guy." "We blame the Army; we blame the Army and Air Force Exchange Service," he continued. "How dare they sit there and say, 'Well, we would let others do it, but they have to show this consumer demand,' so that means they have to show there are enough atheists, Muslims, Jews, Native Americans, Indians, Buddhists, to make it worthwhile." AAFES operates various businesses at U.S. Army and Air Force installations worldwide, including department stores. For Weinstein, it is not enough for AAFES to allow the Christian store to operate based on the understanding that it would grant the same rights to a store aligned with any other religion. "Christians are a majority faith, and that becomes predatory pricing," the MRFF president said. "And that is not what AAFES should be doing as a representative." In his letter, Weinstein demanded that the installation do whatever is necessary to remove the bookstore from Fort Liberty, declaring his clients reserve the right to "exhaust all administrative remedies" to pursue federal litigation. In response to an inquiry from CP, an AAES spokesperson told the outlet that there are no plans to close the store. First Liberty Institute, a legal organization focused on defending religious liberty, began representing Creson following Weinstein's letter. Mike Berry, senior counsel at First Liberty Institute, as well as its vice president of external affairs and director of military affairs, told CP that the organization has not responded to Weinstein's letter. The attorney referred to the MRFF founder's claims as "dubious," adding that the allegations merit no other response other than ignoring Weinstein. Berry also stated that, to First Liberty's knowledge, AAFES had not taken any action aside from informing Creson about the letter. "Mikey Weinstein lives in a fantasy world in which the law is as he thinks it should be," Berry told CP. "Fortunately for us Americans, the Constitution actually protects the right of patriots like Mr. Creson to operate a business in accordance with his faith. The government cannot forbid a company from operating on base just because it happens to be a faith-based company. That's unlawful discrimination." According to Berry, First Liberty is prepared to defend Creson's business if the case goes to court. In a written response, Weinstein argued that The First Liberty Institute "would not know a First Amendment church-state violation if it bit them in the face." "The only 'fantasy world' [Berry] and they inhabit would have a dark, unforgiving, unconstitutional Christian theocracy controlling our nation much as the fictional nation Gilead is described in the best selling book and celebrated TV series 'The Handmaids Tale,'" Weinstein wrote. In an interview with CP, Creson said he had not received any negative feedback about the store before Weinstein. Following Weinstein's letter, local AAFES officials met with Creson to investigate the business. However, the store owner said the officials did not find anything they thought would raise concerns. The Christian business owner shared his military background, stating that his father was a career paratrooper. Creson said that he grew up on Fort Liberty, which was called Fort Bragg at the time, as his dad was stationed there in 1985. Creson was commissioned as an officer in 1998, working as a tank and armor officer before transferring into logistics. In 2003, Creson's division was deployed to Iraq, and after fulfilling his tour, he resigned, saying that he decided to do something different with his life after not seeing his oldest son for years. The veteran said he did not embrace Christianity until later in life, explaining that he didn't grow up in a religious household, but he credited his peers in the military with "planting the seeds" by sharing their faith with him. Creson eventually came into the faith after struggling with anxiety, depression and other issues he said are common among military personnel. Creson said he opened the store on the base to help service members and rekindle his relationship with the military. The business owner told CP that 22% of every dollar the store earns goes to AAFES, adding that he sees it as his mission to help service people emotionally and spiritually. "We don't press upon anybody's religious beliefs as they come in," he said. "If a customer decides to openly share that, we'll have those conversations, and it's a blessing." "We've had patrons come in and laugh with us and share their stories with us. Maybe their spouse is deployed, or they're going through a difficult situation, or they've lost a loved one." "We find that our presence here is not just being a for-profit store, but we're available to help military men and women, especially their families, in any way we can as a for-profit organization," Creson said. Christian group sponsoring efforts to minister to Ukraine's 50,000 'social orphans' amid ongoing war A Christian organization helping churches deliver food and the Gospel in Ukraine has discovered a forgotten group desperately needing assistance: children subjected to abuse or neglect as their country is ravaged by war. The U.S.-based Slavic Gospel Association (originally called the Russian Gospel Association), founded in 1934, has provided Bibles and Christian materials to believers in the Soviet Union for decades. Following the fall of the Iron Curtain in the late 20th century, SGA expanded into an international ministry serving various nations, including Russia, Ukraine and Belarus, among others. As the organization grew, so did its number of ministry programs. In addition to sharing the Gospel, SGA helps provide humanitarian aid, a mission that continued throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and throughout the ongoing war in Ukraine that began when Russian troops invaded in February 2022. In an interview with The Christian Post, Eric Mock, senior vice president of SGAs ministry of operations, said the organization works with 6,000 churches in 13 countries to help fund local churches in places in need of aid. We use the funds to help churches purchase the aid locally, which helps stimulate the economy, he said. Answering how SGA acquires the financial resources to provide funding to these churches, Mock said the organization receives its funding through individual donors or private foundations. Since the war between Russia and Ukraine began last February, SGA has worked with its church network to support efforts to deliver food and the Gospel to people in Ukraine. SGA is currently working to help purchase resources in Poland by collaborating with churches there that are buying food and delivering it to Ukraine. After the food is transported to Ukraine via truck, the supplies are delivered to pastors at churches within SGAs network that then distribute the food. So it's a combination of a vast amount of food that's being trucked in from Poland, along with extra resources, as well as transferring funds to the churches directly, Mock said. We have a pretty strong accountability system, so we know how the funds are being spent. In addition to the financial reports SGA receives from the local churches, the ministry operations leader said he also visits locations to verify how the efforts are proceeding. Mock told CP that SGA has provided over 19 million meals from Poland into Ukraine since the war began, and local churches have had an opportunity to deliver the Gospel to over half a million people. The SGA senior vice president said the organization has a network of 2,200 churches in Ukraine and 110 in Poland that it works with to provide aid. While distributing aid, Mock said the organization and its partners have also found children living in troubled circumstances. Some children that theyve come across live in families headed by single mothers who've had to work and had no one to watch their kids, so they left their children home alone. In other families, children suffer from neglect as a result of their parents drug or alcohol addictions. Mock said SGA refers to these children who have parents as social orphans, a group the organization first learned about while doing ministry work during the COVID-19 pandemic, and one that SGA has continued to serve throughout the war. Churches learned about the living conditions of these social orphans as they visited different houses to provide aid, according to Mock. We have just seen deplorable conditions for these kids, Mock said about the social orphans in Ukraine. As [ministry workers] enter these homes, they find these kids in terrible shape, and they start ministering to them. The Christian leader estimated that there are anywhere from 30,000 to 50,000 social orphans living in Ukraine. As church workers deliver aid to families, according to Mock, they also minister to them on a weekly basis. First of all, they want to reach the parents to see their lives transformed, the ministry operator stated. They want to restore these families rather than continue the cycle of sending kids to orphanages. The churches work with the family as a complete unit, according to Mock, and they may come in the form of helping parents overcome addiction. In some cases, the churches help repair homes or deliver essential supplies and hygiene items, including diapers. However, Mock admitted that he fears the need for this type of support will not end soon, noting that the ongoing war has upended Ukrainians' lives. According to recent data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, over 5 million Ukrainians have fled to Europe, and the commission has recorded over 6 million Ukrainian refugees globally since the start of Russias invasion. Kim Davis ordered to pay $100K for refusing to issue gay marriage license, will appeal Former Kentucky county clerk Kim Davis is planning to appeal a jury ruling that requires her to pay out $100,000 in damages for refusing to sign a same-sex marriage license in 2015 after the U.S. Supreme Court legalized gay marriage nationwide. Last week, a federal jury awarded David Ermold and David Moore $50,000 each in their lawsuit against Davis, centered on the former Rowan County clerk's refusal to sign their marriage license in 2015. Davis, 58, gained national media attention when she was arrested for contempt of court by refusing to sign marriage certificates in Rowan County following the high court's landmark ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges, which struck down state-level bans against same-sex marriage. The Liberty Counsel, a nonprofit legal group representing Davis, announced they would appeal the decision, arguing that the jury lacked the evidence necessary to support their verdict. Specifically, the legal organization notes that the plaintiffs said under oath that they did not have an objective means to calculate the alleged damages suffered from Davis' actions. "Plaintiffs are required to provide evidence of damages and it cannot be based on speculation or guesswork," stated the legal group. "Because the plaintiffs provided the jury with no evidence whatsoever to give the jury any basis upon which to enter a damages verdict, the judge should never have given the case to the jury." No damages were awarded in another case involving the former clerk's refusal to sign a marriage license for a same-sex couple, Yates v. Davis. Liberty Counsel contends that no damages were awarded in that case even though plaintiffs sought up to $300,000 "because that is what the evidence required." Joe Buckles, who helped to represent Moore and Ermold, told National Public Radio that he was "thrilled" by the jury decision and that his clients had been "completely vindicated" by the verdict. "The Supreme Court says that my clients have a constitutional right to marry under the 14th Amendment," Buckles continued. "But this case isn't really about [Davis'] religion. The case isn't really about our clients' right to marry. The case is about a government official that just refused to do her job. It's a pretty simple case." The Liberty Counsel also believes that Davis should have been protected from liability because "she was entitled to a religious accommodation from issuing marriage licenses under her name and authority that conflicted with her religious beliefs." "When the newly elected Republican Governor Matt Bevin took office in December 2015, he granted religious accommodation to all clerks by Executive Order," stated the group. "Then in April 2016, the legislature unanimously granted religious and conscience accommodation to all clerks from issuing marriage licenses that conflict with their religious beliefs." A three-judge panel of the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled unanimously in 2019 that Davis could be sued for her actions. Circuit Judge John K. Bush, a member of the Sixth Circuit panel, authored a concurring opinion in 2019 in which he claimed that Davis had shown an "anti-homosexual animus." "Davis knew or ought to have known, to a legal certainty, that she could not refuse to issue marriage licenses, as was her duty under state law, because of moral disapproval of homosexuality," Bush, a Trump appointee, wrote at the time. "I therefore agree with the Majority that Plaintiffs have pleaded a violation of their constitutional right to marriage based on Davis's refusal to issue marriage licenses and that the district court correctly denied qualified immunity to Davis because she violated clearly established rights." Dongsuh Food has been introducing different flavors of Oreo cookies, left, and Ritz crackers to the Korean local market. Courtesy of Dongsuh Food By Ko Dong-hwan Dongsuh Food is promoting the world-famous cookie and cracker brands Oreo and Ritz this year with its own recipes to celebrate their decades of global popularity. The major Korean food brand has been introducing variant flavors of America's Oreo cookies and Ritz crackers to Korean local shelves. This year, the company launched new flavors to celebrate Oreo's 111th anniversary and Ritz marking its 90th anniversary in three years. On May 25, Dongsuh launched a pop-up store in Seoul to celebrate Oreo Day. Referring to the day as the famous cookie's birthday, the company set up the store in Seongdong District's trendy Seongsu-dong for a month. Some 35,000 people dropped by the store that promoted the cookie, which Euromonitor International, a London-based consumer market researcher, selected as the top brand of its kind worldwide. Oreo donned another new color last February to highlight the year. In collaboration with K-pop act BLACKPINK, Dongsuh launched two new flavors under the "Oreo X Blackpink" campaign: a black version with pink strawberry cream and a pink version with dark chocolate cream. First introduced by Nabisco in 1912, Oreo rakes in over $1 billion annually from global markets, according to Dongsuh. The company, which started to produce and sell Oreo in Korea in 2011, said the sandwich cookie's popular flavors and distinguished marketing contributed to its global popularity. Ritz, with over 80 years since its launch in 1935, is another product Dongsuh is promoting this year with new flavors. Last May, the company unveiled Ritz Cracker Onion that used 100 percent Korean onions. Debuting in the Korean market in 2016 with its original version, Ritz subsequently introduced new flavors like chocolate, cheese and lemon. An official from Dongsuh said the company will keep working with the two "globally beloved" products to continue attracting consumers' taste buds. Childrens pastor charged with attempting to murder wife and 4 of his children A Kansas pastor who allegedly tried and failed to murder his wife and four of their five children and then attempted to burn their house to the ground with their bodies inside has been charged with multiple counts of attempted murder. The Shawnee Kansas Police Department announced in a statement Saturday that 41-year-old Crossroads Christian Church children's pastor, Matthew Lee Richards, has been charged with five counts of attempted murder and one count of aggravated arson with risk of bodily harm. Investigators say they were called along with the local fire department to the pastor's house located in the 6600 block of Goode Drive for a report of a disturbance and a house fire at 3:47 a.m. on Saturday. They soon discovered that the pastor's children and wife, Stephanie, suffered "laceration injuries of varying degrees." As of Saturday, his wife and two of his children remained hospitalized while his 19-year-old son, along with two of his other children, were released from the hospital. Richards is currently in custody on a $5 million bond. He is expected in court on Monday to respond to the charges. Court documents cited by Fox 4 allege that Richards premeditated the attack on his wife and children with a knife before setting the family home on fire. His actions have left his neighbors and church community in shock. In a statement posted on the Crossroads Christian Church's website and social media, Senior Pastor Kurt Witten promised to share a "full statement" on the tragedy at a "later time" and asked for prayers for the family. "We are aware of the situation involving our Children's Pastor, Matt Richards. We are gathering more information and will have a full statement at a later time," Witten wrote. "Please be respectful of this situation as it is still an ongoing investigation. And please join us in prayer for the Richards family during this time." Some in the church family appeared to have difficulty reconciling Richards' attack on his family with the pastor they knew. "We are out of town camping and heard the news. Our hearts and our minds are overwhelmed. We love Matt and our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. Wish there was a way to dial back time and make it all go away praying," wrote Kim Sanders Roth on social media. Neighbor Jennifer Eggerman told ABC affiliate KMBC that she was shocked as she recalled seeing Richards walking with his children and their dogs. "It is pretty scary and real sad, knowing that we've seen those kids out playing in their driveway, with their family," she said. "Dad's walking the kids up and down the street with the dogs." Richards had been working as a seventh-grade English teacher at Christ Preparatory Academy since 2020, according to his staff biography, which has been scrubbed from the school's website. Christ Preparatory Academy is a small private Christian school located at Covenant Community Church in Lenexa. The school has 188 students in grades K-12. Richards' children have been attending the school since 2017. The school notes that his oldest son recently graduated from the academy. The pastor's three younger sons are students at the school. His youngest child, a daughter, was also expected to attend the school. "Matt and his wife, Stephanie, have been married for 18 years. Matt and Stephanie have been a Christ Prep parents since 2017. One of his sons recently graduated from Christ Prep and he still has 3 sons who attend Christ Prep," the school website says. "He also has a daughter, who is already looking forward to attending Christ Prep when the time comes." Pro-life Democrat running for president to serve as a 'thorn in the side of the Democratic Party' A pro-life Democrat is running for president to serve as a thorn in the side of the Democratic Party and draw attention to what she describes as the genocide of pre-born babies. Terrisa Bukovinac, a pro-life progressive atheist who founded the anti-abortion group Progressive Anti-Abortion Uprising two years ago, launched her campaign as a Democratic candidate for president on Thursday. In an interview with The Christian Post, Bukovinac recalled how she went to every single Democratic debate in 2019 and 2020, seeking to provide representation for pro-life Democrats. According to her campaign website, one-fourth of Democrats oppose abortion. I thought I just cant go into another election cycle doing the same thing, demanding representation if I'm not willing to get out and do it. So, I decided this year, Im going to step into the ring and be that representation, she said. Another factor that spurred Bukovinac to run for president was the horrific discovery of the remains of 115 aborted babies in a container marked for disposal picked up by a medical waste truck outside the Washington Surgi-Clinic abortion facility. The contents included the remains of five full-term babies who Bukovinac believes could have either been killed in partial-birth abortions, a violation of federal law, or possibly could have survived the abortions if abortionist Cesare Santangelo and his staff had rendered urgent medical care to save the babies' lives. Read: 12 lesser-known candidates running for president in 2024 Bukovinac and other pro-life activists have launched a Justice for the Five campaign that's calling for an investigation into the deaths of the five full-term babies and the revocation of Santangelos medical license. Reflecting on seeing the babies' remains, Bukovinac told CP she had never seen abortion up close and seen such animosity toward our own humankind in such a personal and intimate way, and it changed my life forever. I just feel called to be a voice for these children, and I'm going to show these victims to the American people. The candidate plans to run campaign ads highlighting the discovery of the late-term aborted babies. She's currently raising money to cover the cost of the ads in the states where her name will appear on the ballot. Im planning to hopefully get on the ballot in between five and 10 states, she said, including New Jersey, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, Michigan (her home state), South Carolina, Iowa and Washington, D.C. This is not a campaign to win, Bukovinac clarified to CP. Rather, she sees the purpose of her campaign as being a voice for these babies and refusing to give up and allowing our society to bury these victims. It's about refusing to give up and allowing our society to bury these victims, and Im going to use every opportunity I can to be a voice for them and to represent pro-life Democrats in the political sphere. Addressing the progress toward achieving her goal of running ads in states where she'll appear on the ballot, Bukovinac says she's received quite a few individual donations. Even though she doesn't expect to win the Democratic nomination for president, Bukovinac sees herself competing in the primaries until the very end because she wants to run as many ads as she possibly can and work as long and hard as possible to be a voice for these babies in this election. Read: Who are the declared candidates running for president in 2024 Theres absolutely no way this campaign is going to go anywhere in terms of winning or catching on enough to get major funding. But what this campaign is going to be is a protest; its a thorn in the side of the Democratic Party, she asserted. Im here to reform the Democratic Party and to force it to change and to reject this toxic relationship they have with the abortion industry so that we can stop a genocide. Bukovinac also hopes her campaign will motivate other pro-life Democrats to run in down-ballot races: I'm very much hoping that it will inspire other pro-life Democrats like [Louisiana Gov.] John Bel Edwards and [Louisiana state Sen.] Katrina Jackson to seek federal office. And Im hoping that it will absolutely draw out pro-life Democrats all across the country and maybe even moderate Democrats who want to see abortion more restricted. I think what I want to see is more nuance in the Democratic Party on this issue so that we can begin to roll back this extremism and stop allowing the abortion industrial complex to run the show, she declared. Most leftists actually dont agree that abortion should be allowed for elective reasons into the late second and third trimester or past the point where a baby can survive outside of the womb. She also believes many Democrats aren't even aware that thats what the party platform stands for. In an earlier interview with CP, Bukovinac suggested that many pro-life Democrats reluctantly voted for President Joe Biden in 2020 because of their opposition to former President Donald Trump. She's now warning the Democratic Party that they cannot rely on those votes going forward because of the dynamic of Trump in the last election. Many pro-life Democrats, she says, could opt to stay home and not vote rather than vote for Biden if Trump isn't the Republican nominee in 2024. However, Bukovinac lamented that its very likely were going to see 2020 all over again, referring to the possibility of a rematch between Biden and Trump and expressed disappointment with the trajectory of the race. We have the two least trusted people in the world who are the frontrunners to lead our nation. I think everyone is very frustrated by the thought of another Trump versus Biden election, she added. Bukovinac hopes her candidacy will offer an alternative and advance the cause of collectively building a better world through progressive policy and by ending abortion. She's also seeking to create a space for pro-life Democrats to demand an end to the type of extremism that we're seeing in the Democratic Party. Sen. Kennedy reads aloud sexually graphic books found in school libraries that Dems don't want to ban Editor's note: This article contains sexually graphic language contained in books found in public school libraries that were discussed as part of a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on Sept. 12. A U.S. senator has invoked strong reactions after reading aloud content from sexually explicit books found in public school libraries across the nation during a Senate hearing last week. The U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing Tuesday titled Book Bans: Examining How Censorship Limits Liberty and Literature. The hearing title reflects concerns from Democrats that restrictions on the availability of sexually explicit books in schools amount to book bans. Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., used his time at the hearing to read excerpts from two books available in many public school libraries that have come under scrutiny for their sexually explicit content: All Boys Arent Blue and Gender Queer. The excerpt of All Boys Arent Blue, read aloud by Kennedy, provided graphic details of same-sex sexual activity. I put some lube on and got him on his knees and I began to slide into him from behind. I pulled out of him and kissed him while he masturbated. He asked me to turn over while he slipped a condom on himself. This was my a-- and I was struggling to imagine someone inside me. He got on top and slowly inserted himself into me. It was the worst pain I think I have ever felt in my life. Eventually, I felt a mix of pleasure with pain, the excerpt read. Kennedy also read aloud a quote from Gender Queer, which has similar graphic language: I got a new strap-on harness today. I cant wait to put it on you. It will fit my favorite dildo perfectly. Youre going to look so hot. I cant wait to have your c--- in my mouth. Im going to give you the b--- j-- of your life then I want you inside of me. Among those who testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee was Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, who focused on Illinois' new anti-book ban law. He answered with a no when Kennedy asked if only librarians should decide whether the two books that I just referenced should be available to kids. He told Kennedy, the words you spoke are disturbing, especially coming out of your mouth. Were not advocating for kids to read porn, he claimed. However, he also insisted that parents should not have the ability under the guise of keeping kids safe to try and challenge the worldview of every single manner on these issues. Giannoulias warned of a slippery slope if parents had the ability to raise objections to certain books available in school libraries: When individual parents are allowed to make a decision of where that line is in To Kill a Mockingbird, which involves a rape scene, should that book be pulled from our libraries? Kennedy also criticized the implication from Democrats that librarians should have the sole say as to what books are in their libraries and that parents should have nothing to do with it. He asked those gathered to speak against regulating sexually explicit books in public schools that promote grooming and pedophilia, If thats your response, what planet did you just parachute in from, or what country, more appropriately? This is not China, Kennedy asserted. Kennedys comments reflect a concern that advocates of allowing sexually explicit books in schools want the government to have an outsized role in raising and shaping the values of children, as is the case in China. Kennedys reading aloud of sexually explicit books at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing sparked intense reactions from social commentators on both sides of the political aisle. Conservative political commentator Ben Shapiro of The Daily Wire addressed Kennedys reading aloud of All Boys Arent Blue and Gender Queer and the medias reaction to it on The Ben Shapiro Show Wednesday. Shapiro played a clip of the relevant portion of what he described as a very weird hearing, summarizing Kennedys point as Im going to read into the Congressional Record one of these books that you suggest must be in a school library and lets see if you get uncomfortable. If youre uncomfortable, then maybe it shouldnt be in a school library where seventh graders can read it, Shapiro asserted as he continued to outline the point of view espoused by Kennedy and other critics of sexually explicit books in schools. After the clip concluded, Shapiro stated that the entire media was like what a weirdo and asked, Why would John Kennedy read that out loud? Shapiro then asked a question of the corporate press, If you think thats weird that an adult is reading that, why do you want a sixth or seventh grader to read that? He added, I notice that it is you who are promoting this material, and when John Kennedy says the thing out loud, then you get all uptight. What are you, some sort of prude? Shapiro also reacted to the assurance from Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., that no one is advocating for sexually explicit content to be available in an elementary school library or a childrens section of a library by asking, Why should that even be available in a school library for high schoolers and Why should taxpayers be funding that sort of crap? He characterized the analysis from supporters of sexually explicit books in school libraries as No, were not doing it, but its good that we are. If a local school district decides they dont want that there, what business is it of Dick Durbin to decide that it must be there? What is the reason why that must be there? Is that a piece of great literature that is required for you to pass your English comp class? Meanwhile, the hosts of the far-left program The Young Turks reacted to Kennedys book reading by commenting on the awkwardness of a senator reading aloud sexually explicit material. When I first started watching, I was like, is this a confession, stated co-host Cenk Uygur. Like all senators, hes 98 years old, but if he ever runs for re-election, that might get used in an ad, Uygur predicted. Co-host Ana Kasparian quipped that Kennedy could have a little bit of a side hustle as a phone sex operator. Uygur also contended that the senators attempt to have the book removed from school libraries backfired when he read it aloud because kids are now infinitely more likely to have heard it because of John Kennedy, let alone more likely to read the book due to the Senate Judiciary Committee's hearing drawing interest on the internet. Kasparian also viewed Kennedys efforts as counterproductive, claiming, I doubt that any student even knew that either All Boys Arent Blue or Gender Queer were available in their libraries. California school district must reinstate Fellowship of Christian Athletes: 9th Circuit A California school district likely acted unlawfully by derecognizing its Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapters because the organization requires leaders to abstain from sex outside of marriage, an 11-judge federal appeals court panel has ruled. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals voted 9-2 to issue an en banc ruling last week that the San Jose Unified School District likely violated the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution by prohibiting the FCA due to its statement on sexual purity, which was labeled in violation of the school district's antidiscrimination policies. The en banc panel overturned a lower court ruling that refused to grant the FCA a preliminary injunction, which would allow it to meet on campus during the legal proceedings, on grounds that the organization "demonstrated a likelihood of success on the merits of their Free Exercise claims." Judge Consuelo Callahan, a George W. Bush appointee, authored the majority opinion, writing that while antidiscrimination policies "serve worthy causes," they cannot be "utilized in a manner that transgresses or supersedes the government's constitutional commitment to be steadfastly neutral to religion." "The District, rather than treating FCA like comparable secular student groups whose membership was limited based on criteria including sex, race, ethnicity, and gender identity, penalized it based on its religious beliefs," wrote Callahan. "Because the Constitution prohibits such a double standard even in the absence of any motive to do so we reverse the district court's denial of FCA's motion for a preliminary injunction." Callahan wrote that there was "strong evidence of animus toward FCA in the District" as well in its Climate Committee, a school leadership committee that addressed the controversy over FCA being derecognized. "One teacher and Climate Committee member disparaged FCA's beliefs by calling them 'bulls' and deeming them without 'validity,'" she continued. "Another teacher and Climate Committee member accused FCA of 'choos[ing] darkness' and 'perpetuat[ing] ignorance,' calling them 'charlatans.' And perhaps most tellingly, the school's principal stated to the entire school in a newspaper article that FCA's views were 'of a discriminatory nature.'" Chief Circuit Judge Mary Murguia, an Obama appointee, authored a dissenting opinion in which she argued in part that the FCA lacked the standing to sue since there was little evidence indicating that any FCA members at the school were trying to apply for official recognition. "Plaintiffs' direct organizational theory of standing fails because Plaintiffs rely on allegations of past actions to demonstrate that FCA National has standing to seek future injunctive relief," wrote Murguia. "While past diversion of resources and past frustration of FCA National's mission may support standing for damages, they do not support standing for prospective relief." Becket Law, a Washington, D.C.-based religious liberty legal group that helped represent the FCA, celebrated the decision. Daniel Blomberg, vice president and senior counsel at Becket, said in a statement that the decision "ensures religious students are again treated fairly in San Jose and throughout California." "This is a huge win for these brave kids, who persevered through adversity and never took their eye off the ball: equal access with integrity," Blomberg added. In 2019, San Jose school officials derecognized the FCA chapter after Pioneer High School teacher Peter Glasser was made aware of the group's sexual purity statement by several students. Although Pioneer FCA continued to operate on campus without being labeled an official student club, the group experienced hostility from school officials and several students for their beliefs. The Christian student group filed suit against school officials over the derecognition, with a 9th Circuit three-judge panel ruling 2-1 in their favor in August 2022. Circuit Judge Kenneth Lee, author of the panel opinion and a Trump appointee, wrote last year that "our government must be scrupulously neutral when it comes to religion." "It cannot treat religious groups worse than comparable secular ones," Lee added. "But the School District did just that." Canadian archbishop calls out lack of media interest after probe finds no remains at Catholic church Recent investigations in Canada have found no evidence of mass graves at 14 sites previously thought to possibly contain the remains of Indigenous children, leading to a range of reactions, including comments from a Catholic archbishop. Archbishop Richard Gagnon of the Diocese of Winnipeg, Manitoba, spoke with EWTN about the results of an independent investigation after 14 anomalies were detected in the basement of a Catholic church near a former residential school using ground-penetrating radar last year. As many as 60 people were thought to have been buried there. He said the church was prepared for any result and described the process as a "very careful professional investigation" into the allegations of human remains at the church school. "The results were negative of any human remains," he said. "It is always good to have that kind of result. Certainly, we were as curious as anybody about these possibilities under the church. It is a very large church, and the basement area is dirt. So we were prepared for any particular result." In May 2021, reports emerged of ground-penetrating radar technology discovering unmarked graves of hundreds of indigenous children at former Catholic-run residential schools in Canada that made international headlines and led to widespread vandalism and burning of churches after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau demanded an apology from Pope Francis. A series of excavations at the 14 locations at the Our Lady of Seven Sorrows Catholic Church near the Pine Creek Residential School found no human remains. An archeological team from the University of Brandon was hired by The First Nation, northwest of Winnipeg, to do a four-week excavation of the Manitoba church earlier this summer, The Canada Press reports. While the initial claims of potential remains drew widespread media coverage, the archbishop said that the media interest in the investigation seemed to wane once it became apparent that no remains were discovered. "When we began the process of this excavation, we began with an early morning pipe ceremony led by the indigenous community there. There was a lot of national attention paid to that," he said. "But at the end of the four weeks of excavation, the national news was not quite as prevalent. Some of the networks reported the results, and others didn't play it up very big at all. So it began with much more national notice than the way it ended." "What you have had over the past couple of years is the use of ground-penetrating radar uncovering unmarked graves," he continued. "There is no mass graves. ... It is a matter of unmarked graves in communities where there were residential schools. In this particular case in Manitoba where this excavation occurred, I'm not aware of any comment from the federal government about this particular case." Gagnon said the archdiocese has had excellent communication and partnership with the Pine Creek reservation to embark on this investigation. "It's a good example of what can be done where there is openness in communication in trying to determine the historical record," he said. In the aftermath of the international media attention given to the reports of graves at Catholic residential schools, a study released by Statistics Canada finds that hate crimes against Catholics rose 260% in 2021. In May 2021, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation reported that the remains of 215 children had been found at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School in British Columbia, which had closed in 1978. The news led to significant public outcry and demands for an apology from the Vatican by Trudeau. However, no remains or graves were discovered. Ground-penetrating radar anomalies had been detected, but no excavation had been carried out. The news led to a series of events, including the lowering of flags to half-mast and calls to cancel Canada Day. The initial reports led to significant public and government responses. Orange Shirt Day was implemented in schools across the country. Protests and vandalism occurred, including the toppling of statues of Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II. Prime Minister Trudeau visited the Cowessess reserve in Saskatchewan and was photographed kneeling at the site of the former Marieval residential school. He stated that children died because of the policy of residential schools. To date, no excavations at any of these sites have turned up human remains. Jacques Rouillard, a professor emeritus in the Department of History at the Universite de Montreal, told The New York Post last month that there were "too many falsehoods circulating about this issue with no real evidence." "Too much was said and decided upon before there was ever any proof," Rouillard said. Rouillard wrote a January 2022 piece published in The Dorchester Review, pointing out that anthropologist Sarah Beaulieu acknowledged that they did not have confirmation that there were any remains of children at the site. Beaulieu, he explained, said that there were "probable burials" on the property. "By never pointing out that it is only a matter of speculation or potentiality, and that no remains have yet been found, governments and the media are simply granting credence to what is really a thesis," wrote Rouillard. "And all of this is based only on soil abnormalities that could easily be caused by root movements, as the anthropologist herself cautioned in the July 15 press conference." MercyMe sets Christian music record with another Billboard chart topper Chart-topping Christian band MercyMe again solidified its place in music history this month, securing yet another No. 1 slot on both Billboard's Christian Airplay and Christian Adult Contemporary Airplay charts. Their song "To Not Worship You," from the 2022 album Always Only Jesus, rose to No. 1 on the Christian Airplay and Christian AC Airplay charts for the tallies dated Sept. 16. The song spotlights the distractions Christians often face and emphasizes the importance of focusing on God. According to Billboard, this is MercyMe's 19th No. 1 on Christian Airplay and 20th on Christian AC Airplay, extending the record for most top spots. The band surpassed the Christian pop duo for KING & COUNTRY, which has 13 hits. "The song follows MercyMe's 'Then Christ Came,' which in February also led both lists," Billboard added. Established in 1994, MercyMe earned its first Christian Airplay and Christian AC Airplay No. 1 in 2003 when "Word of God Speak" topped the charts for several weeks. The band's lineup includes Nathan Cochran, Barry Graul, Bart Millard, Mike Scheuchzer, Robby Shaffer and keyboardist James Phillip Bryson. They are in the midst of the band's "Together Again Tour" with Crowder and Andrew Ripp, with over a dozen locations scheduled for October. MercyMe will hit the stage in November with Toby Mac and Zach Williams for 12 concert tour stops in Georgia, Indiana, Ohio and South Dakota. Starting as a duo with Millard and Bryson, MercyMe's journey is marked with milestones, including signing with INO Records in 2001 and releasing their hit song, "I Can Only Imagine." This song resonated deeply with listeners, becoming the first Christian song to achieve double-platinum in digital sales. The song takes listeners on a journey by encouraging them to ponder what Heaven will be like. The lyrics ask, "Surrounded by your glory/ What will my heart feel?/ Will I dance for You Jesus?/ Or in awe of you be still?" Over the years, MercyMe has been recognized with multiple Dove Awards, American Music Awards and other significant accolades. Millard told Billboard in 2021 that the band's success wasn't easy, especially given the personal pain intertwined with his songwriting. Still, he stressed the band remains committed to creating music that honors God and uplifts the Christian community. "Going to these dark places that you have to go sometimes to write, I just didn't want to go there," he told Billboard. "It had nothing to do with the band or making music. It was that I didn't know how to make music that wasn't connected to something painful, especially when I associated that with the songs that mean the most to me." In a previous interview with The Christian Post about the film "I Can Only Imagine," based on Millard's childhood, he discussed his challenging relationship with his father, who later died from cancer, and the redeeming reconciliation he had with both of his parents. Millard once described his father as a "monster" because of the physical and verbal abuse he endured as a child. His mother left Millard's father when he was a young boy out of fear for her own life. But Jesus transformed Millard's father, who would later become Millard's biggest hero before his death. Despite wrestling with difficult emotions while engaging in the songwriting process, Millard said when he makes the effort to "go to that place I love the results." "When I did jump back in, for the first time, it was more about other people's stories than mine," he said. How to defeat the 'woke mind virus' The famous English author G.K. Chesterton once speculated that We shall soon be in a world in which a man may be howled down for saying that two and two make four, in which furious party cries will be raised against anybody who says that cows have horns, in which people will persecute the heresy of calling a triangle a three-sided figure, and hang a man for maddening mob with the news that grass is green. In the pageant of human history, few other predictions have been quite as prophetic as this one from the jolly giant of G.K. In August 2020, woke activists and Critical Theory scholars took to (then) Twitter to argue that 2 + 2 can equal 5, howling down those who argued it makes four. One account, Wokal Distance, which works to expose the dangers of Critical Theory, compiled screenshots of these arguments. Of particular note was a comment by a Math for America master teacher named Joe Herbert, who argued that Math is actually not universal. Treating it as such upholds white supremacy. In other words, if you believe that 2 + 2 = 4, and only 4, and always 4, then you might be a white supremacist. How could this happen? Where did this insanity come from? Its the product of a serious illness. The symptoms of a mentally and spiritually deadly infection. Answer: Its from the woke mind virus. Solution? Defeat it. The stakes? Civilizational. Elon Musk, tech entrepreneur and owner of X (formerly Twitter), agrees, claiming in a post that The woke mind virus is either defeated or nothing else matters. Of course, from a Christian perspective, we can have confidence that all sinful ideologies will ultimately be destroyed when Jesus Christ returns as the risen and conquering King. But in the meantime from this day until that final day Christians should join the fight to destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). This includes defeating the woke mind virus, which continues to have serious even disastrous consequences on our lives in America. Lets consider a few. Suppression of free speech and free thought One of the primary concerns conservatives have with the woke ideology is its tendency to stifle free speech. While they purport to stand for tolerance and inclusivity, the woke wield cancel culture as their weapon of choice. Individuals who hold differing views whose minds are still uninfected are vilified, silenced, canceled, investigated, and lose their jobs. This tactic is self-fulfilling: It creates a climate of fear, wherein people are afraid to express their opinions for fear of retribution (and intentionally so) and then choose to censor themselves. The suppression of free speech undermines one of the fundamental principles of a free society. Identity politics and division Conservatives see clearly that woke ideology, which is weaponized Critical Theory, exacerbates identity politics. It divides society into competing groups based on race, gender, and other characteristics. They argue that individuals should be judged on their character and actions rather than their group identity. As conservative scholar Victor Davis Hanson explains, Most of America is exhausted from being smeared as racists or hearing that a wonderful country the most free, just, equitable, affluent and leisured in civilizations history must continually pay penance for its past and present. The public is more tired of projectionist hypocrisy. Those who scream the loudest are usually the most guilty of woke crimes. Erosion of meritocracy One of the major achievements of the woke mind virus is that it has all but destroyed the principles of meritocracy and individual achievement. Its myopic obsessions with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) quotas have led to the promotion of individuals based on their identity rather than their qualifications or abilities. This approach harms both individuals and organizations, as it results in less qualified individuals being placed in positions of authority. I dont know about you, but I dont want my pilot, or heart surgeon, chosen based on whether or not they check a box on the intersectionality chart or help fill a DEI quota I want them chosen for their experience and competence. If we dont defeat the woke mind virus, its only a matter of time before planes start, literally, falling from the skies. Ideological indoctrination Woke ideology has infiltrated educational institutions, pushing a twisted, divisive set of beliefs onto students. This kind of ideological indoctrination stifles critical thinking and discourages dissenting viewpoints. Conservatives instead advocate for a more balanced and open educational environment that encourages students to think for themselves and engage in respectful debate. And its not just conservatives. John McWhorter, a self-described liberal and linguist at Columbia University, describes the woke ideology as a religion rather than a political project. He argues that this ideology is not only performative but also harmful to the people it claims to support. Hes not wrong. The antithesis of Christianity Professor Owen Strachan rightly understands that the woke mind virus isnt just a matter of misguided thinking but the product of sinful hearts, those 24/7 idol factories in our chests. He explains, In the final analysis, wokeness as taught by many is less a direct response to the Gospel and more a reworking of justice and equity to form a this-worldly religion. What does all this mean? It means that the worldview of wokeness is not a Christian one where God is Creator and Ruler, but an atheistic one where man is divinized. Conclusion Whats the antidote to mind-corrupting, nation-destroying, false gospel? The true Gospel both preached and applied. The Church must proclaim the saving message of Jesus Christ, crucified, dead, buried, and risen again as the only and final atonement of sins for all who repent and believe. Then Christians must take this message out of the pews and into the public square, calling on politicians, CEOs, professors, publishers, and the media to reject wokeness and submit to Christ instead. We must deliver the antidote of renewed minds in Christ, following Pauls exhortation in Romans 12:2: Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Because if we dont, while the Church will never fail, our country just might. So lets get out there and deliver the Christian antidote to the woke mind virus, starting today. Originally published at the Standing for Freedom Center. Bringing up children in a post-Christian world "Suffer the little children" is a phrase from the King James Bible (Matthew 19:14) that has entered as a proverb into the English language. Jesus is simply telling us that we are not to hinder the little children from being brought to him. What Christian would disagree with that? In the previous chapter Jesus issued a stern warning that anyone who caused "one of these little ones - those who believe in me - to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea" (Matthew 18:6). Last week I looked at the horrific case of the editor and education 'expert' who has been found guilty of being a long term paedophile. Every sane human being, parent and Christian would be horrified at such abuse. And yet the Bible warns us that there are sins of omission, as well as commission, which can also do a great deal of harm. Neglect can be as harmful as abuse. And spiritual neglect can be the most harmful of all. George Barna in his latest book, Raising Spiritual Champions: Nurturing Your Child's Heart, Mind and Soul, which is based on Barna's own quantitative research, makes a devastating, and to my mind, true series of accusations about spiritual neglect against many Christian parents in the United States. Barna's main observation is that millions of Christian parents have themselves not been adequately discipled in their faith, and as a result haven't a clue how to pass the faith onto their children. Parents either do a bad job or just desert the field all together and leave the education of their children up to others whether schools, media, youth groups or Sunday schools. The results are devastating and in my view are the primary reason why the church in the US is in a steep decline. Just one example of the evidence that Barna offers is that just 36% of 13 and 14 year olds believe that God exists and is the all-knowing, all-powerful creator of the universe, while only 1% of preteen children possess a biblical worldview. It's not just the US. In other Western cultures there may be differences but as so often, it does tend to be the case that where the American church leads, the rest of the world follows. In my native Scotland I watched over the past few decades as youth were indoctrinated into a 'progressive' cult which completely turns them away from the God of the Bible. But it is not just the active indoctrination by the new Establishment which is the reason. It is the fact that most parents hadn't a clue how to protect or teach their children and handed them over to Sunday school teachers who were often just as clueless. I did some research into one small Highland church and found that there was a reason it was small. Over a period of many years, 40 babies had been baptised. Yet I was only able to identify one who was still attending church - and this in a theologically conservative 'strict' denomination. In Australia, where I currently reside, Sydney Anglicans have been noted for having excellent youth programmes, ministries and schools. A few years ago, the optimum age for people leaving the faith tended to be after university but in recent years the pendulum has swung towards teenagers. In one church we found that only 25% of teenagers living at home still attended the church of their parents and only 50% attended any church at all. Barna identifies the primary cause for this. It is not the hostility of the culture. It is not the education system. It is not social media. It is not peer pressure. The primary factor is the inability of parents to pass on their faith and the failure of churches to equip parents to do so. The old proverb 'it takes a village to raise a child' is better expressed in Christian terms as 'it takes a church to raise a Christian child'. The importance of this in biblical terms is demonstrated by the amount of teaching in the Bible on this subject and by the severity of Christ's warnings in neglecting the children. If we did not feed our children adequately, we would rightly be condemned. But what about if we do not feed our children spiritually and thus cause them to stumble? Here are just a few of the pertinent biblical injunctions: "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it" (Proverbs 22:6). "Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4). "These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up" (Deuteronomy 6:6-7 NIV). In Psalm 78:4 the Lord's people promise "we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done". What can be done? It's one thing to analyse the problem, it's another to know what to do about it. Clearly what we are doing isn't working. Perhaps we can learn some wisdom from the past? Let me offer the following suggestions. 1. Real spiritual life In order to tell our children the wonders the Lord has done, we ourselves need to know them. In other words, parents need to have a living and loving faith which their children can see. 2. Family worship Why don't we return to the practice of family worship where each Christian home is seen as a mini church and where prayer, bible reading and praise are as much part of the daily routine as brushing teeth, eating breakfast and doing homework. 3. Catechism Another forgotten practice is that of catechism. I have recently been going through a modern beautifully illustrated version of the Shorter Catechism which has been really helpful. As we look at it each Sunday it strikes just how much the theology applies to contemporary life. Take for example: how did God create humanity? The Church needs to radically rethink how it educates children and young people. Half an hour of colouring in Bible stories on a Sunday morning is never going to cut it. In Dundee, Scotland, where I ministered for many years, I was greatly challenged when I was told that Muslim children went home from school every day and did two hours of teaching afterwards in the mosque! 4. Education John Knox argued that where there was a church there should be a school. That may not be practical today, but as some Christian parents are being compelled to send their children to state schools which are increasingly becoming anti-Christian, the Church needs to get back to the priority of education. 5. Resources There are many excellent resources to help young people and parents podcasts, sermons and books such as Rebecca McLaughlin's "10 Questions (and answers) every teen should ask about Christianity". I received so many questions from teens that I have published two books answering them A.S.K. and S.E.E.K. No prizes for guessing what the third one will be! 6. Prayer Finally and surely most importantly there is prayer. It is not without significance that in a chapter which begins with Paul talking about the relationships between children and parents, he ends by encouraging us to "pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this is mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people" (Ephesians 6:18). Christians risk arrest if they join protests A year on from the death of Mahsa Amini, Christians in Iran are being warned to stay clear of protests or else risk arrest. Saturday marked the one-year anniversary of the death of Amini. The 22 year old died soon after being arrested by Iran's morality police for not wearing the hijab in accordance with the country's strict dress code for women. The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) outlined the risks for those who take part in the women's rights protests sparked by her death. USCIRF Commissioner Susie Gelman told CBN: "Christians report that they're getting pressure from the government not to participate in the protests. If they do and they're arrested, they are sexually assaulted in prison." The commission reports that laws against so-called honour killings have been relaxed in Iran, leaving women and girls who convert away from Islam even more vulnerable. The relaxation of the laws puts Christians at even greater risk of attack from their families for leaving behind the Shia faith. A report from USCIRF published in September included the account of one Armenian Christian woman who said she was sexually assaulted in the notorious Evin prison after being detained during hijab protests last year. The interrogator told her, "You thought that because you're a Christian you can do whatever you want and remove the hijab." Hundreds of protesters have been killed by the regime and at least seven executed after 'sham trials', according to estimates. Release International, which supports persecuted Christians, says that religious minorities have been "swept up" in the violence against protesters. Some 69 Christians were arrested in raids carried out in 11 cities during the month of August. Another 50 were detained the month before. Arrests have continued despite a November 2021 Supreme Court ruling that Christians who attend house churches should not be considered a threat to national security or enemies of the state. "The freedom movement in Iran has been gathering momentum. And the most powerful freedom of them all, the cornerstone of all freedoms, is the freedom of religion or belief," said Release CEO Paul Robinson. "Release International is supporting Christians in the house church movement in Iran and continues to call on the Iranian authorities to allow full freedom of faith for all its citizens. "We are heartened that the Supreme Court has begun to recognise that Christians cannot be considered enemies of the state and should not be criminalised. "This message has yet to reach to the heights of government in Iran and filter down to those who continue to persecute and arrest Christians." A general shareholders' meeting is held at Korea Electric Power Corp. headquarters in Naju, South Jeolla Province, Monday, to nominate the company's new CEO. Yonhap By Ko Dong-hwan Kim Dong-cheol was nominated CEO of KEPCO in Monday's shareholders' meeting. Yonhap Nicaraguan bishop goes to international human rights body to fight wrongful imprisonment (CP) A Nicaraguan bishop has turned to an international human rights commission after being unjustly convicted and imprisoned by his country's government under the dictatorship of Daniel Ortega. Bishop Rolando Alvarez of the Catholic Diocese of Matagalpa was convicted of "undermining national integrity" following a highly irregular trial, human rights group ADF International said in a statement, adding that he had been preaching on themes of human dignity and justice, denouncing the Nicaraguan government's human rights violations against the Catholic Church and its followers. The bishop was initially barred from celebrating Mass and later arrested and imprisoned without explanation. He was sentenced to 26 years in prison after a trial he was unaware of, said ADF International, which has filed a petition on his behalf with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights. There are no effective legal avenues in Nicaragua, the group said. "Those concerned with basic human rights should be outraged by the crisis endured by people of faith in Nicaragua," said Kristina Hjelkrem, legal counsel for ADF International in Latin America. "This is a clear violation of not only his human right to freedom of expression, but also to profess his faith and share his beliefs as a pastor." The state of religious persecution in the country is worsening, evidenced by the recent arrest of a priest who prayed for Bishop Alvarez earlier this month. The bishop's persecution began on Aug. 4, 2022, when he was prevented from leaving his residence to celebrate Mass. He was forcibly detained for 15 days along with seminarians, priests and a cameraman. On Aug. 19 last year, police arrested Bishop Alvarez and seven other church members without a warrant. He was then placed under house arrest. Nicaraguan authorities later charged the bishop with "undermining national integrity" and "propagation of false news." He was also found guilty of "aggravated obstruction of functions" and "disobedience of contempt for authority." The charges were based on sermons he had delivered criticizing the government's human rights violations. Alvarez was stripped of his nationality and citizenship rights under a problematic law. He was sentenced to 26 years and four months in prison and fined almost $5,000. He has been in prison for seven months, deprived of contact with family or legal representation. The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and Inter-American Court of Human Rights have previously ordered Nicaragua to release the bishop. The government has ignored these orders. The Catholic Church in Nicaragua has been targeted by the government since civil unrest erupted in April 2018. Attacks have been made against religious leaders, places of worship and other institutions. The Catholic Church has accused the regime of religious persecution. Pope Francis has strongly condemned the persecution of Alvarez and the Church in Nicaragua. He has invited all parties to engage in open dialogue for peaceful coexistence. An ideology in Nicaragua portrays Ortega as being "anointed by God ... for sacred Nicaragua." The 2018 protests came after about a decade of deteriorating economic conditions in the country. Protesters, mostly students, demanded democratic reforms and that President Ortega and his wife, Vice President Rosario Murillo, step down as they allegedly established a dictatorship marked by nepotism and repression. During the initial days of the 2018 protests, Ortega requested that the Catholic Church act as a mediator. But his administration also began using brutal force against the protesters and later on Catholic clergy. Catholic clergy aided and provided sanctuary to protesters and voiced support for the right to protest peacefully. But as a result, Ortega used his government and supporters to persecute clergy members, worshipers and various Catholic organizations. Hundreds of people died in the protests in 2018. The Christian Post Vatican brings its message for peace in Ukraine to Beijing Pope Francis' envoy for peace in Ukraine, the Italian Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, made history on Thursday when he became the first Vatican prelate to meet with Chinese officials in Beijing. The meeting was the latest step in the pope's diplomatic efforts to put an end to the Russian-Ukrainian conflict. An experienced diplomat and the president of the Italian Bishops' Conference, Zuppi met with the Chinese Special Representative for Eurasian Affairs, Li Hui, who was charged with promoting Beijing's 12-point peace plan for Ukraine. Hui was also the Chinese ambassador to Russia and has traveled to Moscow and Kyiv. "The meeting, which was open and cordial, focused on the war in Ukraine and its dramatic consequences, underlining the need to join efforts to favor dialogue and find paths leading to peace," read a Vatican statement on Thursday. The Vatican and Chinese representatives also discussed the question of food security and underscored the need to restore Ukraine's grain exports to countries at risk of food shortages, the statement said. The Chinese government has not published any official statement on the meeting, and Chinese Catholic outlets have made no mention of it. The Vatican and Beijing recently renewed a controversial secret deal on the appointment of bishops, rekindling hopes of official relations between the two states, which have historically been at odds. China has maintained a neutral stance on the Russian invasion of Ukraine and even offered its own peace proposal. Speaking to the Italian newspaper Il Sole 24 Ore on Friday, Zuppi said he believes the Vatican's peace negotiations in China "have gone very well," but he didn't offer any specifics. Pope Francis appointed Zuppi in May to lead a peace mission to Ukraine focused on charitable aid, especially helping children displaced by the conflict. Between July and September, the cardinal has met with Ukrainian, Russian, U.S. and now Chinese representatives to bring the pope's appeal for peace. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said the Kremlin is "ready to meet with anyone, we are ready to talk with anyone," during a roundtable discussion on Friday. He also said Zuppi will be returning to Russia "soon" to continue discussions. Religion News Service We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Won Hee-ryong, left, speaks during a press conference at the Government Complex in Sejong, Monday. Yonhap Korean firms expected to secure lithium through Ukraine's reconstruction By Park Jae-hyuk The land minister confirmed on Monday that he plans to visit Saudi Arabia next month with the heads of Korea's 10 largest business groups, including Samsung Electronics Executive Chairman Lee Jae-yong and SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won. "As far as I know, some companies are about to win orders from Saudi Arabia," Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Won Hee-ryong told reporters. "I will visit the country after organizing a team of businesspeople." He also dismissed concerns about the feasibility of the NEOM smart city construction project, emphasizing that it is important for Saudi Arabia to compete with the United Arab Emirates in the Middle East. His remarks came after it was reported earlier this month that business tycoons will accompany the minister on his trip to Saudi Arabia in October, so that their companies can join the $500 billion project to develop a smart city in the Middle Eastern country. Given that Saudi Arabia has shown greater interest in Korea's IT and mobility technologies, the government is said to have decided to go to the Middle Eastern country with the top 10 business group chiefs, instead of construction firm CEOs. "For companies to do business under better conditions, the government needs to support them," Won said. During the press conference, he also talked about the result of his visit to Ukraine last week with representatives of Korean companies. "Among the 100 million tons of global lithium deposit, 51 million tons of lithium is in Ukraine," the minister said. "The Ukrainian president wants Korea to exploit one of the country's four lithium mines, as the U.S. is exploiting two of them." According to the minister, Ukrainian lawmakers will visit Korea next month for follow-up discussions. Korea is also considering sending inspectors there to check the feasibility of the lithium mine's exploitation. Regarding nuclear power plant operations in Ukraine, he expressed optimism that the U.S. will allow Korean firms to build and operate nuclear plants there, so as to curb the expansion of Russia and China. In response to concerns over possible difficulties in getting paid for the post-war reconstruction project, Won said the government would talk with the private sector to minimize the risk. Samsung Biologics' Plant 4 in Songdo, Incheon / Courtesy of Samsung Biologics By Baek Byung-yeul Samsung Biologics signed a $242 million contract manufacturing organization (CMO) deal with global pharmaceutical giant Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS) for the production of immuno-oncology drugs, the drug manufacturer said Monday. Samsung said the production agreement was made with BMS' subsidiary Swords Laboratories. Under the contract, its Plant 4 will serve as the production base for BMS' flagship immuno-oncology product for the next seven years through 2030. BMS was Samsung Biologics' first customer since the company launched its CMO business, which refers to the production of medical drugs at the request of a client company. The two sides have been working together for more than a decade, signing new and expanded CMO contracts. Samsung Biologics attributed the long-term collaboration to the fact that it has the world's largest production capacity and has earned customers' trust with its fast and stable production speed. Based on this competitiveness, Samsung has continued to establish new contracts and expand existing ones with BMS and other major global pharmaceutical companies. So far, it has secured 14 of the top 20 global pharmaceutical companies as customers. The company's Plant 4, which began full operation in June, has an annual production capacity of 240,000 liters. Thanks to the capacity, Samsung said it is increasingly receiving large-scale orders from global pharmaceutical companies. With its contract with BMS, Samsung Biologics has made 2.7 trillion won ($2 billion) worth of contracts this year, following major contract orders from Pfizer and Novartis. At the current pace, the company added it is expected to reach a total contract value of 3 trillion won this year, the highest ever. "The series of large-scale contracts has helped us dispel the overcapacity concerns from the market as the company has received a series of large-scale long-term contracts from top global pharmaceutical companies shortly after the launch of Plant 4," a company spokesperson said. Transparenta Consiliului Superior al Procurorilor, intre a fi sau a nu fi. Ce constatari se regasesc intr-un raport prezentat de CRJM? Primeste notificari pe email Nota bene: Adresele email cu extensia .ru nu sunt acceptate. Contractare si Achizitie Bunuri Anunturi de Angajare Granturi - Finantari Burse de studiu Stagii Profesionale Oportunitati de voluntariat Toate Articolele Hyundai Motor Group's specially designed IONIQ 6, from left, Genesis G80 and IONIQ 5 "art cars" are in New York, Monday, to promote Busan's World Expo 2030 hosting bid. The electric vehicles are part of the carmaker's 20 art cars that have been dispatched to Manhattan and other tourism hotspots in New York City to promote the cause during the 78th United Nations General Assembly High-Level Week that begins on Monday. Courtesy of Hyundai Motor Group The September edition of Governance & Leadership focuses on internal disputes, and how charities should and should not deal with them. Alongside an in-depth article by senior report Lea Legraien, who interviewed a number of charity lawyers about the rise in complex internal disputes that they are seeing in the sector, we provide an expert insight from mediators about the useful role that mediation can play in resolving conflicts. There is also a piece from the Charity Commission, whose chief executive recently warned charities not to weaponise the regulator in their disputes. This article explains how attempts to get the Commission to take a side in an intractable row can often backfire. Our regular columnists Dr Wanda Wyporska and Noelle Rumball also look at the issue of conflicts, each offering their own unique advice on how to prevent them arising in the first place. The Core Functions section this month is on the subject of risk and insurance. Consultant Nick Moore offers his expert take on the types of insurance that charities ought to consider, and how boards should decide what cover is necessary for their charitys particular circumstances. The Charity Commissions regular column rounds up the changes in the new investment guidance, CC14, while in the news analysis CFGs policy chief discusses work being done in the sector to devise a new set of investment principles based on the updated guidance. In the People & Culture section, US-based entrepreneur and author Tania Luna outlines the power-with style of leadership that saw her organisation successfully through the pandemic. And in Board Matters, NPCs principal Charlotte Lamb provides some of the insights from the think tanks latest report, Being a Trustee in an Age of Permacrisis, including tips on how to stay focused on your mission when storms are trying to knock you off-course. And finally, in her leader column, editor Tania Mason examines the RSPB LIARS saga, and its timeliness in helping us to promote our new joint survey with the Sheila McKechnie Foundation, which trustees can take part in here. Regulars Cover theme Opinion Law & Guidance People & Culture Board matters 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, The Charity Commission has published its first-ever guidance on charities use of social media , following a consultation earlier this year. Its guidance, which is published amid its engagement with RSPB over social media posts that called government ministers liars , says that charities can engage on emotive issues as long as they align with their purpose. It says that charity trustees and employees have the right to exercise their freedom of expression through social media and that the Commission does not expect individuals accounts to be monitored. However, it says that trustees should consider action if they become aware of a social media post by an individual linked to their organisation having a negative effect on the charity. Using social media in riskier contexts Trustees are currently not always aware of the risks that may arise through using social media, the regulator said, meaning that some do not have sufficient oversight of their charitys activity, leaving them and their charity vulnerable. The guidance states social media can be a powerful communication tool for charities but it can increase the risk of posting content that is inappropriate or harmful. It says that content, once posted, can be hard to undo and professional and personal lives can overlap meaning the line can become blurred. The guidance states: Using social media in riskier contexts can attract significant public interest or criticism. The potential for criticism can be mitigated by the trustees ensuring that the charity conducts its activity with respect and tolerance. Nonetheless, it adds: Trustees, charity employees and any other individuals have the right to exercise their freedom of expression within the law in their communications, including when using social media. This includes personally supporting a particular political party or during an election or a particular candidate, something a charity cannot do. However, trustees should be aware of the potential for content posted by individuals in their personal capacity being associated with the charity. There is no expectation that trustees monitor personal social media accounts, the guidance adds, but if they become aware of content posted or shared by an individual being associated with and having a negative effect on the charity they should consider what action to take to protect the charity. It states the regulator does not expect that every charity will involve trustees in the day-to-day running of the charitys social media but that trustees must understand their legal responsibilities even if delegating tasks. The guidance adds that charities should have guidelines to manage the risk that content posted by individuals connected to the charity in their personal capacity, particularly those who are high profile like CEOs, may negatively impact the charity by association. Commission: Trustees need to be alive to the risks Paul Latham, director of communications and policy at the Charity Commission, said: There are many benefits to using social media, which can be an effective tool for campaigning, communicating with the public and reaching new and existing supporters. However, trustees need to be alive to the risks it can generate, including to a charitys reputation. We have published this guidance because we want trustees to think carefully about what they want to achieve when using social media and then apply our guidance to help ensure their charity is protected. We know trustees are busy and dont expect them to be social media experts. Our guidance is also clear that their oversight need only be proportionate. However, it is the duty of trustees to act responsibly, in their charitys best interests, and in line with the law. This includes when posting online. Our guidance will help charities to navigate their use of social media with greater confidence and will support the Commission to regulate this high profile and fast paced area in a fair and balanced way. Todays guidance follows a formal consultation , which ran from January to March 2023, and received 396 responses. The Commission said some felt it could be clearer to explain what is and is not expected of trustees, so the regulator has made a number of changes to clarify the Commissions regulatory expectations in light of the feedback. NCVO: We are grateful to the Commission for listening to concerns Sarah Vibert, chief executive of NCVO, said: We welcome this updated guidance from the Charity Commission, which will help charities to set appropriate policies for their social media presence. These latest changes help ensure charities are able to effectively and efficiently maximise the opportunities that social media bring to ensure they are able to meet their charitable objectives. We are grateful to the Commission for listening to concerns and feedback from NCVO members, and ensuring they were addressed in the latest revised guidance. This latest update to the guidance clearly reiterates the legitimate role of charities to campaign if it is in the interests of meeting their charitable objectives. We hope the new guidance will give trustees and sector leaders the confidence, and clarity on the parameters, they need to use social media well in their vital work. 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, New CEO for London Wildlife Trust London Wildlife Trust has appointed David Mooney as its new chief executive. He replaces Gordon Scorer, who has been in post for eight years. Mooney has been with the charity for 15 years, beginning as Hackney area manager. Most recently he was director of development at the trust for seven years. Commenting on the appointment, Rufus Radcliffe, chair, said Myself and the board of trustees are excited for another great chapter at London Wildlife Trust under Davids leadership. His commitment and vision align completely with the Trusts values and long-term goals. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the team for their continued dedication and hard work. Brain Tumour Research recruits chief executive Brain Tumour Research has appointed Dan Knowles as its next chief executive. He succeeds Sue Farrington Smith, who co-founded the charity in 2009 and now joins the board of trustees. He has lost three family friends to brain tumours in the last two years. Knowles joins from Oxfordshire Mind where he was CEO for seven years. He has also been a trustee for a Creative Dementia Arts Network and director of John Lewis and PepsiCo. I am excited to bring everything I have learnt both in the corporate and third sector to this wonderful organisation, he said. Chance UK appoints CEO The childrens charity Chance UK has appointed Vanessa Longley as its new chief executive. She will succeed interim CEO Matt Plen when she joins next month. She joins from YoungMinds where she was director of development for four years. Previously, she was director of fundraising and marketing at Havens Hospices, head of fundraising at Mencap and fundraising manager at Lepra. Muslim Aid hires chief executive Muslim Aid has recruited Khalid Javid as its permanent chief executive. It follows his appointment as interim CEO of the charity since February. He succeeds Kashif Shabir who was CEO for two years. Formerly, Javid was managing director at Physicians Across Continents for over four years. He began his charity sector career at Muslim Aid in 2007 as a senior fundraising officer. In his role as interim CEO, Javids recent focus has been on tackling the cost-of-living crisis. He oversaw the charity deliver over 30,000 meals in Tower Hamlets during the charitys Ramadan campaign this year. On his appointment, he said: I am honoured and genuinely excited to lead Muslim Aid into its next chapter. I truly believe in the power of Khidmah (Service) which is one of Muslim Aids values, to transform society. I will continue to make sure the prophetic example of service to humanity is at the centre of everything we do. Full Fact recruits CEO Full Fact has appointed Chris Morris as its new CEO. He succeeds Andrew Dudfield, who was interim CEO for five months after permanent CEO Will Moy stepped down. Morris was previously with BBC News since 1990 first as a Sri Lanka correspondent. Most recently, he was global trade correspondent for six months. Before that, he worked on BBCs Reality Check where he was fact-checking and explaining Brexit, the Covid-19 pandemic and other issues. Chris Morris, said: Joining Full Fact is a huge privilege, particularly in the run up to the general election. Misinformation affects everyone's ability to make informed decisions, and in the past voters have been badly let down by low standards of honesty in politics across the political spectrum. National director of Habitat for Humanity appointed Henrietta Blackmore has been recruited as Habitat for Humanitys national director. Blackmore succeeds Tum Kazunga, who was appointed CEO of Habitat for Humanity in 2018. She joins from Save the Children International, where she has been global head of partnerships capacity development since 2022. She is on Amnesty International UKs grants subcommittee board and is due to join UnLtd as a trustee. New chair of Surviving Economic Abuse Fiona Cannon has been appointed as chair of the domestic abuse charity Surviving Economic Abuse (SEA). She succeeds Cathy Millis who steps into the vice-chair role for the final year of her term. She will step down as group sustainable business director at Lloyds Banking Group at the end of September to take up the role. She said: I am delighted to be taking up the role of chair of trustees at Surviving Economic Abuse. Its a charity I have worked with for many years and I feel privileged to have the opportunity to be part of taking the charity to the next level. British Council appoints chair The British Council has appointed Paul Thompson as its new chair. He will take up the post from Stevie Spring in January 2024. Thompson is vice chancellor of Royal College of Art and has been in trusteeships and non-executive roles there for 14 years. He is also a trustee of the Victoria & Albert Museum. Of the appointment, foreign secretary James Cleverly said: I am pleased the British Council trustees have elected Paul Thompson as the next chair of the British Council. Paul brings extensive experience to the role, including from his time as vice-chancellor of the Royal College of Art. I am also very grateful to Sarah Sands for her work and contribution to the British Council during her time as Acting Chair. Chair of Become steps down Hugh Thornberry has announced he will be stepping down as chair of Become after six years in the role. Board members Andy Harris and Beth Taswell will act as interim co-chairs until a permanent replacement has been found. Both joined the board four years ago. Chartered accountant Frances Lang has also been appointed to the board as a new trustee. Ambition Institute creates two director roles The education charity has appointed two executive directors to the newly created roles. Yalinie Vigneswaran becomes executive director of programme delivery. She will head up teams supporting professional development across Ambitions specialist teacher training programmes, as well as its initial teacher training programme which starts in September 2024. She joins Ambition from Education Development Trust (EDT) where she is senior programme director. Natalie Dixon has been appointed as an executive director for the early career framework (ECF) and national professional qualifications (NPQs). She joined the charity last year as senior director of programme delivery. She had previously held national senior leadership roles across public services. New finance director for religious charity Quakers in Britain has appointed Vipan Narang as its finance director. Narang joins from Association of Anaesthetists where he was chief operating officer for four years. He is a trained accountant and previously worked for Institution of Structural Engineers and the Churches Conservation Trust. He has 13 years of experience as a charity trustee. Stonewall appoints vice chairs and trustee The LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall has appointed Cat Dixon and Jean Vianney Cordeiro as vice chairs. They both served on the board for a combined nine years. Both step into the role following the retirement of Mitch Oliver as vice chair after more than four years on Stonewalls board. Meri Williams and Kyle Ring have also retired from the board. Dixon was previously the CEO of the Law Society while Vianney is currently head of corporate development at Pets at Home. Meanwhile, Ayla Holdom has been recruited as chair of the remuneration committee whilst John Dickinson-Lilley joined the board as a new trustee. New ambassador at Carers Trust Carers Trust has appointed TV presenter and current Strictly Come Dancing contestant Angela Rippon as an ambassador. The charity said she has been a huge supporter of Carers Trust for many years and has spoken movingly about caring for her mother Edna who had vascular dementia, revealing how difficult it was to deal with the guilt of caring for her whilst being unable to help improve her condition. Rippon said: It is such a privilege to become an ambassador for Carers Trust. Through my work with the dementia community, I know what an incredibly vital role all carers perform for their loved ones. But too often that work and loving commitment goes unrecognised and unrewarded. Working alongside the marvellous team at the trust, I hope I can not only further the work of the trust itself, but also champion the thousands of carers who deserve our respect and support. DERNA, Libya (AP) Libyan authorities have opened an investigation into the collapse of two dams that caused a devastating flood in a coastal city as rescue teams searched for bodies on Saturday, nearly a week after the deluge killed more than 11,000 people. Its unclear how such an investigation can be carried out in the North African country, which plunged into chaos after a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi in 2011. For most of the past decade, Libya has been split between rival administrations one in the east, the other in the west each backed by powerful militias and international patrons. One result has been the neglect of crucial infrastructure, even as climate change makes extreme weather events more frequent and severe. Heavy rains caused by Mediterranean storm Daniel caused deadly flooding across eastern Libya last weekend. The floods overwhelmed two dams, sending a wall of water several meters high through the center of Derna, destroying entire neighborhoods and sweeping people out to sea. Claire Nicolet, who heads the emergencies department of the Doctors Without Borders aid group, said that rescuers found a lot of bodies on Friday and were still searching. It was a big number the sea is still ejecting lots of dead bodies unfortunately, she told The Associated Press. She said major aid efforts were still needed, including urgent psychological support for those who lost their families. She said the burial of bodies is still a significant challenge, but there has been progress in coordinating search and rescue efforts and the distribution of aid. Authorities and aid groups have voiced concern about the spread of waterborne diseases and shifting of explosive ordnance from Libya`s recent conflicts. Haider al-Saeih, head of Libyas center for combating diseases, said in televised comments Saturday that at least 150 people had suffered from diarrhea after drinking contaminated water in Derna. He urged residents only drink bottled water, which is being shipped in as part of relief efforts. Libya`s General Prosecutor, al-Sediq al-Sour, said that prosecutors would investigate the collapse of the two dams, which were built in the 1970s, as well as the allocation of maintenance funds. He said prosecutors would investigate local authorities in the city, as well as previous governments. I reassure citizens that whoever made mistakes or negligence, prosecutors will certainly take firm measures, file a criminal case against him and send him to trial, he told a news conference in Derna late Friday. He said the probe will include investigators from different parts of the country. Such an inquiry would face major obstacles given Libya`s lingering political divide, even as the devastation brought a rare moment of unity, with Libyans on both sides rushing aid to Derna. Jalel Harchaoui, an expert on Libya at the London-based Royal United Services Institute for Defence and Security Studies, said that an investigation could pose a unique challenge to judicial authorities, since it could lead to the highest ranks of leadership in eastern and western Libya. Later on Saturday, a local television station reported that Derna`s mayor, Abdel- Moneim al-Gaithi, was suspended pending an investigation into the disaster, according to a government decree dated Sept. 14. Ahmed Amdour was appointed acting mayor for the flood-stricken city, the station said. Since 2014, eastern Libya has been under the control of Gen. Khalifa Hifter and his self-styled Libyan National Army. A rival government, based in the capital, Tripoli, controls most national funds and oversees infrastructure projects. Neither tolerates dissent. The key challenge to a thorough investigation is the Hifter coalitions longstanding behavior; its historic lack of accountability writ large could obstruct the unearthing of truths, Harchaoui said. During a visit to Derna on Friday, Hifter promised promotions to all military personnel involved in the relief efforts. Local officials in the city had warned the public about the coming storm and last Saturday ordered residents to evacuate coastal areas in Derna, fearing a surge from the sea. But there was no warning about the dams, which collapsed early Monday as most residents were asleep in their homes. A report by a state-run audit agency in 2021 said the two dams hadn`t been maintained despite the allocation of more than $2 million for that purpose in 2012 and 2013. A Turkish firm was contracted in 2007 to carry out maintainence on the two dams and build another dam in between. The firm, Arsel Construction Company Ltd., said on its website that it completed its work in November 2012. It didn`t respond to an email seeking further comment. Local and international rescue teams were meanwhile working around the clock, searching for bodies and potential survivors in the city of 90,000 people. Ayoub said that his father and nephew died in Derna on Monday, a day after the family had fled flooding in the nearby town of Bayda. He said that his mother and sister raced upstairs to the roof but the others didn`t make it. I found the kid in the water next to his grandfather, said Ayoub, who only gave his first name. I am wandering around and I still dont believe what happened. Al-Sour, the top prosecutor, called on residents who have missing relatives to report to a forensic committee that works on documenting and identifying retrieved bodies. Libyan authorities have restricted access to the flooded city to make it easier for searchers to dig through the mud and hollowed-out buildings for the more than 10,000 people still missing. Many bodies were believed to have been buried under rubble or swept out into the Mediterranean Sea, they said. The storm hit other areas in eastern Libya, including the towns of Bayda, Susa, Marj and Shahatt. Tens of thousands of people have been displaced in the region and took shelter in schools and other government buildings. Dozens of foreigners were among those killed, including people who had fled war and unrest elsewhere in the region. Others had come to Libya to work or were traveling through in hopes of migrating to Europe. At least 74 men from one village in Egypt perished in the flood, as well as dozens of people who had traveled to Libya from war-torn Syria. Maltese authorities said they found over 80 bodies during land and sea searches on Friday. One person was found alive 10 nautical miles, roughly 11 miles, off the coast of Derna. Malta`s armed forces have been helping with relief efforts in Libya since Wednesday. Magdy reported from Cairo. Associated Press writer Jack Jeffery contributed to this report from London. Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. A new Nevada law that takes effect Oct. 1 prohibits liability insurance policies with eroding limits, potentially increasing the cost of premiums and reducing availability, insurance experts say. Such policies, also called wasting, burning or defense within the limits policies, include the cost of defending lawsuits as part of the loss. Such provisions are common in professional liability, cyber liability, errors and omissions, employment practices liability, directors and officers, construction defect, pollution and excess policies. Nevada Insurance Commissioner Scott Kipper acknowledged during a telephone interview Friday that his office did not completely understand the ramifications of Assembly Bill 398 until after Gov. Joe Lombardo signed the measure into law on June 3. He said since then, his office has has heard backlash from resort owners, professional engineers, municipalities and nonprofit organizations. We realized that the impact was much more apparent after we looked at this a little harder, Kipper said. He added later: The rate increases are potentially substantive. Kippers office is proposing an emergency regulation to clarify that the law does not apply to non-admitted lines, risk retention groups or captive insurance that does not include third-party liability. The proposal must be reviewed by the Legislative Counsels Office before final adoption and will remain in effect only 120 days, Kipper said. Kipper said the Nevada state legislature wont have an opportunity to amend the law until it meets again in 2025. Mark Sektan, a vice president for the American Property Casualty Insurers Association said during an Aug. 10 workshop on the proposed legislation that the state legislature should hold a special session to repeal or amend the law. Sektan had warned lawmakers before they adopted AB 398 that the bill will lead to rate increases and make insurance more difficult to obtain. Business groups said during the workshop that the new law was already having a devastating impact on insurance prices and availability. Our member agents are already seeing a swath of non-renewals, cancellations, carriers threatening to pull out of the market and double- digit price increases, said Rachael Rizzi, a board member for Nevada Independent Insurance Agents. Kanani Espinoza, a lobbyist for the Nevada chapter of the American Council of Engineering Companies, said AB 398 will increase premiums for professional liability policies by 80%. Virginia Valentine, president of the Nevada Resort Association, said data submitted by just 14 of the organizations 70 members showed that their premiums will increase by tens of millions of dollars. She said two if its members already received cancellation notices. Ty M. Maynarich, an attorney with the Tyson Mendes law firm in Las Vegas, said in a blog post that the new laws impact extends beyond prices and availability. He said policies that require the insureds to deplete self-insured retentions may violate the new law as a limitation on the coverage for costs of defense. He said insurers may seek declaratory relief more often to address coverage issues early in the claims process. Louisiana and New Mexico have similar statutes, but Nevadas new law is much broader, Maynarich said during a telephone interview. Louisianas law, first passed in 2021, was amended in 2022 to allow the state insurance commissioner to waive the eroding-limits prohibition on commercial vehicle and commercial general liability policies. New Mexicoseroding limits bill does not apply to most policies that provide coverage of $500,000 or more, or $5 million for motor vehicle or medical malpractice liability. Mark Habersack, risk manager for Resorts World in Las Vegas, said the Nevada law looks a lot like a law passed by the Canadian province of Quebec, which wreaked havoc on the insurance industry. Kevin M. LaCroix, an attorney and executive vice president for specialty insurer RT ProExec, said in a blog post said the Quebec law created a hard insurance market in the province and was later amended. As anyone might expect, insurers generally and not unreasonably were not interested in taking on what would in effect be an unlimited defense cost exposure for claims that are notoriously expensive to defend, he said. Nevada may be stuck with the eroding limits ban for some time, unless lawmakers follow Sektans advice and hold a special session. Kipper said the state legislature normally meets every other year and is not scheduled to be in session again until 2025. There is one consolation: The Nevada Insurance Department posted on its website a guidance memorandum that says liability policies can include a separate limit for defense costs, including a limit of $0. Also, the memo says the law does not prohibit insurers from issuing policies that include self-insured retentions or deductibles on liability coverage and/or defense costs. The memo says the Insurance Department has no authority to modify the effective date of the new law. We understand the challenges this creates for the industry to provide modified contract language based upon the bills requirements, the guidance says. Division staff will prioritize reviewing new policy language impacted by this bill. AVON LAKE, Ohio -- Thousands of American flags lined the perimeter of Avon Lake High School Sept. 11 as students paid tribute to those who died in the 9/11 terrorist attacks 22 years ago. The student-led Key Club had spent the previous day placing the flags carefully around the school. Club adviser and English teacher Chloe Stewart worked with Key Club members to ensure that all the flags were in place at the Avon Belden Road campus. We had about 20 students help set flags out this year, which was a great turnout, she said. It took us about an hour to set up all of the flags. We set the flags out as a memorial for all of the lives that were lost on 9/11. Even though our students at the high school were not alive to witness the tragedy, it is wonderful to see them all come together to fulfill the peoples hope who lived through that day to never forget the event and the lives that were. The community is so appreciative of this event because of how much 9/11 impacted their lives and our country as a whole. We have received phone calls of appreciation for doing this event every year. The Key Club is an international student-led organization with a goal of helping others through service and teaching its members leadership skills at the same time. Avon Lakes chapter has been proud to place the flags in memory of the 2,977 people who were killed when terrorists flew hijacked planes into the World Trade Center in New York City on Sept. 11, 2001. The flags remained in place throughout the as part of Patriot Day commemorations. Read more from the Sun Sentinel. ROCKY RIVER, Ohio -- Rocky River Schools Superintendent Michael Shoaf is proud of the districts results on the Ohio Department of Education report cards issued last week. And with an overall score of 5 stars -- the states highest rating -- theres much to be happy about. The district also scored 5 stars (on a scale of 1 to 5) on Achievement, Progress, Gap Closing and Graduation. Rocky River was awarded 4 stars for Early Literacy. Shoaf was asked how much are Ohio students learning in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic? His answer: We are finding out with this first star-rating school report cards. (In the past, the state issued letter grades of A-F) During the pandemic, in the spring of 2021 and 2022, students took state standardized tests, but districts and schools were not assigned an overall grade, Shoaf said. Now the state is returning to overall grades under the star system. Shoaf said he is proud of the performance of the students and teachers, and also how the parents support the Rocky River Schools so strongly. We are happy with growth from year to year. We need to see where to make corrections and we are looking at the data and making decisions as always, he said. Our results are up over last year -- all doing better -- performance indexes are up for the whole district, as well as our overall performance in buildings and on all state assessments. Some future components will have to do with college, careers, workforce and military readiness, he said. Its a lot of work that goes into this set of results. I know teachers and students work real hard in all areas. Read more from the West Shore Sun. AKRON, Ohio Two people were killed in separate crashes, with alcohol a suspected factor in one of them, police say. Robert Ray Rogers Jr., 44, of Akron, was pronounced dead at Summa Health Akron City Hospital after he reportedly lost control of his car while driving on Seiberling Street in the East Akron neighborhood. According to police, Rogers Jr. was driving his Jeep Wrangler north on Seiberling Street at high speeds at about 5:30 p.m. Thursday when he approached a roundabout at Innovation Way. Rogers lost control on the curve and struck two curbs, went over the inner-circle and then off the road, hitting a tree. Police say speed played a role in the crash but other factors remain under investigation. At about 10:18 p.m. Thursday, Tamika Lee, 48, of Akron, was killed in a single-vehicle crash on the 1800 block of Vernon Odom Boulevard near the West Akron neighborhood. Lee was a front-seat passenger in the Pontiac G5. Police say the Pontiac was traveling east on Vernon Odom Boulevard and lost control in a curve at high speed. The Pontiac went off the road momentarily, but the driver was able to correct before losing control again. The car slid sideways, hit a tree on the passenger side, then hit another tree head-on, police say. Both speed and alcohol are suspected factors in the crash. The driver was taken to Cleveland Clinic Akron General Medical Center for treatment. Police did not release information on the drivers condition, but said charges are pending. CLEVELAND, Ohio - Ohio State edged out Case Western Reserve as the best university in Ohio, according to newly released rankings by U.S. News & World Report. Ohio State is ranked 43rd overall in U.S. News rankings for national universities, 10 spots ahead of Case Western Reserve. Last year, CWRU was ranked 44th nationally, while Ohio State was 49th. The No. 1 national university, according to the 2023-2024 school rankings, is Princeton University in New Jersey, followed by Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University. This is the same top three as the previous year. Among just public universities, Ohio State is 18th. CWRU is 31st among private schools. The consumer-focused news site uses 19 factors to evaluate 1,500 colleges and universities, with new emphasis placed on social mobility and outcomes for graduating college students. Other measures include graduation rates, graduate indebtedness and peer assessment. U.S. News and World Report groups institutions into different categories, with the National Universities set apart through doctoral degree offerings and research activity. Universities that do not offer many postgraduate programs are sorted into the regional universities category. The top national universities in Ohio are: 1. Ohio State University (tied for No. 43 overall nationally) 2. Case Western Reserve University (tied for No. 53) 3. Miami University (tied for No.133) 4. University of Dayton (tied for No. 133) 5. University of Cincinnati (tied for 142) Kent State University ranks 227th on the list, Cleveland State University 320th and the University of Akron 361st. U.S. News and World Report also ranked regional colleges and universities. Regional Universities offer a broad scope of undergraduate degrees and some masters degree programs, while regional colleges focus on undergraduate education but grant fewer than 50% of their degrees in liberal arts disciplines. The actual name of the school is not considered in the ranking. The top five regional universities in Ohio are: 1. John Carroll University (No. 3 in Midwest, behind Butler University in Indiana and Milwaukee School of Engineering, Wisconsin.) 2. Baldwin Wallace University (tied for No. 6) 3. Otterbein University (No. 20) 4. Cedarville University (tied for No. 21) 5. Franciscan University of Steubenville (tied for No. 26) The top five regional colleges in Ohio are: 1. Ohio Northern University (No. 2 in Midwest; behind Illinois Wesleyan University.) 2. Hiram College (tied for No. 10) 3. Marietta College (No. 18) 4. Bluffton University (No. 22) 5. Wilmington College (tied for No. 29) U.S. News also ranked the top national liberal arts schools. In Ohio, they are: 1. (tie) Kenyon College (No. 39 nationally; Williams College in Massachusetts is No. 1) 1. (tie) Denison University (tied for No. 39) 3. Oberlin College and Conservatory (tied for 51) 4. College of Wooster (tied for No. 75) 5. Antioch College (tied for No. 100) * Ohio Wesleyan University, ranked No. 5 last year, is now sixth in the state at No. 116 nationally. Zachary Smith is the data reporter for cleveland.com. You can reach him at zsmith@cleveland.com. See previous data stories at this link. Chinese Communist Party's foreign policy chief Wang Yi waits for the start of a trilateral meeting on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Jakarta, Indonesia, July 1. AP-Yonhap President Joe Biden's national security adviser met with China's foreign minister over the past two days on the Mediterranean island nation of Malta in an effort that the White House said Sunday was intended to "responsibly maintain the relationship" at a time of strained ties and mutual suspicion between the rival powers. The White House said in a statement that Jake Sullivan and Chinese envoy Wang Yi had "candid, substantive and constructive discussions" as the world's two largest economies try "to maintain open lines of communication." Sullivan and Wang last met in May in Vienna f or talks. The two officials spent about 12 hours together over two days in Malta. Washington and Beijing see themselves as competitors despite an extensive trade partnership. President Joe Biden recently spoke with Chinese Premier Li Qiang while in India at the Group of 20 summit and told reporters afterward that they had talked about "stability" and "it wasn't confrontational at all." Biden has worked to strengthen relations with Japan, South Korea, India, Vietnam and others to counterbalance China's influence across the Pacific Region. Yet Biden said last Sunday at a news conference in the Vietnamese capital of Hanoi that those alliances are not about a "cold war" with China. "It's not about containing China," he said. "It's about having a stable base" for global economic growth. Yet the relationship is full of competing pressures. The Biden administration shot down a Chinese spy balloon that traversed the continental U.S. earlier this year. The Chinese government hacked the emails of Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. The U.S. government has restricted the exporting of advanced computer chips to China. And after Chinese President Xi Jinping centralized his power, the Chinese economy has not rebounded as expected after ending its pandemic lockdowns. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan speaks during the daily briefing at the White House in Washington, Sept. 15. AP-Yonhap BOWLING GREEN, Ohio A 62-year-old man is in custody and facing two counts of murder after a shooting at a residence early Sunday morning left two people dead and wounded another, police say. Xiaosong Wang, a Bowling Green resident, is being held in the Wood County jail on the murder charges and one count of felonious assault after he was arrested at the scene, according to a news release from the Bowling Green Police Division. Wang is accused of killing Zhichun Huang, 36, and Bing Luan Lin, 40, both of Bowling Green. The Northwest Ohio city is home to Bowling Green State University, but the shooting did not occur near the campus. Police and deputies with the Wood County Sheriffs Office were called to the residence on the 500 block of Monroe Street just after midnight. One of the victims was found dead in the residence, while another was pronounced dead a hospital. The third victims wounds are not considered life-threatening, police say. No additional information was released Sunday. Daytime Emmy award-winning actor Billy Miller, who starred on The Young and the Restless and General Hospital, has died, according to reports. He was 43. Miller died on Sept. 15 in Austin, Texas, two days ahead of what wouldve been his 44th birthday on Sunday. His manager confirmed the actors death in a statement. The actor was struggling with manic depression when he died, Millers manager told Variety in a statement. Miller appeared on the soap opera All My Children from 2007 to 2008 before starring as Billy Abbott on The Young and the Restless from 2008 to 2014. He won three Daytime Emmy awards for his work on The Young and the Restless, including two for Outstanding Supporting Actor and one for Outstanding Lead Actor. He later joined General Hospital in 2014, where he played the roles of Jason Morgan and Drew Cain until 2019. Miller also appeared in a number of other television shows and films, including Suits, NCIS, The Rookie, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Ray Donovan, Urban Cowboy and American Sniper. He is survived by his mother Patricia, sister Megan, brother-in-law Ronnie, niece Charley and nephew Grayson. CLEVELAND, Ohio A suspect has been arrested and accused of killing a man Saturday in the citys Union-Miles Park neighborhood. Delvonta Green, 27, of Fairborn is charged with fatally shooting Brandon Morris, 42, of Cleveland, according to court records and the office of the Cuyahoga County medical examiners office. The shooting happened in the 4000 block of East 108th Street, south of Harvard Avenue. CLEVELAND, Ohio Ohio House Rep. Bob Young is accused of placing a tracking device on the car of a victim in his domestic dispute, a move that authorities say violates a protection order, according to an affidavit filed Monday in Barberton Municipal Court. The allegations detail the latest charges against Young involving the dispute, which prompted the GOP representative to resign his seat, effective Oct. 2. The affidavit filed Friday accuses him of violating the order and menacing by stalking. He originally was charged with assaulting two family members in early July and later attempting to contact one of them, according to police reports. He was picked up earlier this month, when police say he again reached out to one of the people he was barred from contacting because of a restraining order. Ryan Fraley, a Summit County sheriffs detective, wrote in Mondays filing that a victim in Youngs domestic case found a LandAirSea GPS device on her vehicle July 31. Detectives tracked the model back to the company. Authorities found that Young purchased the device with a credit card two days earlier, according to the affidavit. He used the same credit card to buy clothes in August, the filing shows. Young, 42, of North Canton, remains free on bond. Edward OFarrell, a visiting judge in Barberton Municipal Court, ordered him to wear a monitoring device. Cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer reached out to defense attorneys John Greven and Michael Callahan for comment. Earlier this month, Young said in his resignation letter to Jason Stephens, the speaker of the Ohio House, that he fears that he has become a distraction. Young has served in the Ohio House since January 2021, after he was elected to the office the previous November. He said in the resignation letter that he looks forward to personal and legal vindication as the court process plays out. CLEVELAND, Ohio Fall officially starts this week, but youll have to wait a bit longer for peak autumn color. Trees in the northern third of the state are expected to reach peak color change by the week of Oct. 16, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. David Parrott, a forester with the department, is out with his annual fall-color forecast and it comes with a caveat: Weather this year has been so variable across the state that any predictions are subject to change. In particular, dry weather in the southern half of Ohio may yield stressed trees that change their colors early. Im hopeful that this year will give us the same spectacular fall color we saw last year, he said. However, due to the weather being so dry now in some places, it might result in earlier leaf drop in some trees. Southern Ohio, in particular, is already seeing some trees change, said Parrott, who typically works in Portsmouth, along the Ohio River. Despite a dry September so far, Cleveland is still 5.5 inches above average for precipitation this year, due primarily to summer storms in July and August, according to the National Weather Service. Cincinnati, meanwhile, is about 2 inches below normal for year-to-date precipitation. Parrott predicts peak fall color in central Ohio for the week of Oct. 23. In Southern Ohio, peak fall color should arrive the week of Oct. 30. Parrott noted that his prediction is subject to adjustments. Things can change very quickly, he said. Two years ago, he said, a warm rainy fall yielded colors that were underwhelming. Last year, conditions were perfect, including average summer rainfall followed by ideal autumn conditions. When we got to fall, it was dry with crisp sunny days and those cool evenings. Thats how we get those red colors. Read more: Late summer rain bodes well for fall foliage display in Northeast Ohio this year The state Department of Natural Resources will again track color change across Ohio, with observers at state parks and forests noting hue variations weekly on an online map. Changes should be updated on Thursdays at fallcolor.ohiodnr.gov. The state website also has information on popular fall events; places to hike, mountain bike, kayak and more; plus places to stay overnight in the parks, including camping, cabins and 10 overnight park lodges. Meanwhile, the state tourism website, at Ohio.org, also offers lots of fall travel ideas, including 100 Things To Do in Ohio This Fall; a list of events and festivals; a recommended fall foliage road trip; haunted Ohio options and more. And if your travels take you out of Ohio, check out the interactive fall color map put together by the tourism site SmokyMountains.com. A sliding button at the bottom of the map shows how fall color is expected to progress from north to south, Maine to Florida. The site is predicting that peak fall color in most of Michigan, for example, will arrive the week of Oct. 9. An assault unit commander from the 3rd Assault Brigade who goes by the call sign 'Fedia' raises the Ukrainian flag as a symbol of liberation of the frontline village of Andriivka, Donetsk region, Ukraine, Sept. 16. AP-Yonhap Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiyy said on Sunday his forces had recaptured an eastern village on the southern flank of Bakhmut, the city that fell into Russian hands in May after months of heavy fighting. "Today I would like to particularly commend the soldiers who, step by step, are returning to Ukraine what belongs to it, namely in the area of Bakhmut," Zelenskiyy said in his nightly video address to the nation. "Ukraine always gets its own back," his chief of staff Andriy Yermak wrote on Telegram. Zelenskiyy thanked the successful units which he said were the 80th airborne assault brigade, the 5th assault brigade, the "glorious 95th" and a national police assault brigade. "Klischiivka," he said. "Well done." Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar shared a video of Ukrainian forces displaying flags including the blue and yellow national flag with ruined buildings and the sound of ongoing fighting in the background. This handout photograph released by Ukrainian presidential chief of staff Andriy Yermak, Sept. 17, shows Ukrainian servicemen posing for a photo with Ukrainian national flags in front of a destroyed building in the village of Klyshchiivka, Donetsk region. AFP-Yonhap Sporadic protests continued in Iran on Sunday amid a widespread crackdown by security forces a year after a young Kurdish woman's death in custody set off some of the worst political unrest in four decades. The death on Sept. 16 last year of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Kurdish woman arrested by the morality police for allegedly flouting mandatory dress codes, triggered months of some of the biggest protests against the Islamic Republic's Shi'ite clerical rule ever seen and drew international condemnation. On Saturday, Mahsa's father, Amjad Amini, was arrested briefly and warned against marking the anniversary of his daughter's death, the Kurdistan Human Rights Network said, and the family was not able to hold a planned vigil at her grave. A social media video on Sunday showed protesters in thewestern city of Hamadan, clapping and shouting "Death to Islamic Republic", while another video showed protesters running away after apparent shooting by security forces. Reuters could not immediately authenticate the videos. Following the publication of the videos, the semi-official Tasnim agency carried a video appearing to show that the streets of Hamadan were calm. Rights groups, including the activist HRANA news agency, reported that a number of people were arrested in the Kurdish cities of Saqez and Sanandaj. State media reported detentions of dozens of "terrorists" including an individual allegedly planning a suicide attack. Meanwhile, authorities said unidentified gunmen in southern Iran on Saturday opened fire on the Basij paramilitary volunteer militia, which has played a prominent role in the crackdown, killing one and wounding three. It was not immediately clear if the incident was linked to the current unrest. Iran's intelligence minister warned that Iran may take unspecified action against overseas media which Tehran accuses of fomenting violent unrest in the country. Iran International, a London-based television station critical of the Iranian government, in February said it was moving its live broadcasting studios to the United States following threats it faced in Britain. "(Iran) International is a terrorist network, and we will take action wherever and whenever we recognise any terrorist act," the semi-official news agency Fars quoted the minister, Esmail Khatib, as saying. Amini 'inspired a movement' In the demonstrations that followed Amini's death more than 500 people, including 71 minors, were killed, hundreds injured and thousands arrested, rights groups said. Iran carried out seven executions linked to the unrest. U.S. President Joe Biden in a statement on Friday said Amini "inspired a historic movement ... that has impacted Iran and influenced people across the globe." Hundreds of Amini's supporters rallied in front of the White House on Saturday. Iran's Foreign Ministry rejected as "double standards and lies" Western expressions of support for women's rights in Iran. In a report last month, Amnesty International said Iranian authorities "have been subjecting victims' families to arbitrary arrest and detention, imposing cruel restrictions on peaceful gatherings at grave sites, and destroying victims' gravestones". Many journalists, lawyers, activists, students, academics, artists, public figures and members of ethnic minorities accused of links with the protest wave, as well as relatives of protesters killed in the unrest, have been arrested, summoned, threatened or fired from jobs in the past few weeks, according to Iranian and Western human rights groups. Iran blames the unrest on its Western foes and rejects criticism of its legal system, saying it is based on a lack of understanding by rights groups of its Islamic laws. (Reuters) In this photo released, Aug. 11, 2022, by the Iranian Foreign Ministry, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani speaks in Tehran, Iran. Some $6 billion of Iranian assets once frozen in Korea is in Qatar, a key element for a planned prisoner swap between Tehran and the United States, an Iranian official said Sept. 18. AP-Yonhap Iran and the United States have been informed that $6 billion in frozen Iranian funds were transferred to accounts in Qatar, a source said, triggering a carefully choreographed swap on Monday of five detainees each between the two arch foes. Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani said the funds, which had been frozen in Korea, would be in Iran's possession on Monday so the deal mediated by Qatar during months of talks could go ahead. There was no immediate public U.S. comment. "Both parties have been notified by Qatar that all $6 billion has been transferred from Switzerland to bank accounts in Qatar," the source briefed on the matter told Reuters. "A Qatari aircraft is on standby in Iran waiting to fly five soon-to-be released U.S. citizens and two relatives to Doha on Monday morning." Under the deal, the five Americans with dual nationality are expected to leave Tehran and head to Qatar's capital Doha and then from there fly to the United States. In return, five Iranians detained in the U.S. will be released. The Iranian Foreign ministry spokesperson said two would return to Iran while two would stay in the U.S. at their request. One detainee would join his family in a third country, he added. The deal, first made public on Aug. 10, will remove a major irritant between Washington and Tehran, although the two sides remain deeply at odds over issues ranging from Iran's nuclear ambitions and its influence around the region to U.S. sanctions and America's military presence in the Gulf. Korea's Foreign Ministry had said on Monday it was working with all parties on the deal "to ensure smooth progress of all procedures so that it will be resolved once and for all." The Iranian and U.S. flags are seen printed on paper in this illustration taken Jan. 27, 2022. Reuters-Yonhap Ashton Kutcher has resigned from his role as board chairman of Thorn, a nonprofit he co-founded over a decade ago to combat child sexual exploitation, the actor announced Friday. The decision to step down was "rooted in the recognition of recent events," the organization said in a statement, referencing the backlash against Kutcher and his wife, Mila Kunis, after they wrote letters in support of convicted rapist Danny Masterson. "After my wife and I spent several days of listening, personal reflection, learning, and conversations with survivors and the employees and leadership at Thorn, I have determined the responsible thing for me to do is resign as Chairman of the Board, effectively immediately," Kutcher said in a statement. "I cannot allow my error in judgment to distract from our efforts and the children we serve," he continued. Kutcher and Kunis came under fire over letters they submitted to a Los Angeles court describing Masterson as a "dedicated and loyal" husband, an "excellent" role model," and an "outstanding older brother figure" ahead of a judge sentencing him to 30 years to life in prison for sexually assaulting two women. The couple, who starred on "That '70s Show" with Masterson, said they wrote the letters after Masterson's family asked them to characterize "the person that we knew for 25 years so that the judge could take that into full consideration relative to the sentencing." Kathy Griffin and Christina Ricci quickly denounced them for supporting Masterson. "I don't really care that when they were working on 'That '70s Show' he was, like, a good guy to work with and he worked actively to keep people off drugs because he's a Scientologist," Griffin said, recalling how she repeatedly tried to have her brother Ken Griffin, whom she accused of being a pedophile, arrested. "Blood was not thicker than water in my case," Griffin said in a video posted to her TikTok and Instagram accounts. "If you know that somebody is committing [sexual assault] you should do something, if you can." Kutcher said Friday that he realizes his character letter was "another painful instance of questioning victims who are brave enough to share their experiences." "This is precisely what we have all worked to reverse over the last decade," he said in his statement. "The mission must always be the priority and I want to offer my heartfelt apology to all victims of sexual violence and everyone at Thorn who I hurt by what I did." He also offered an apology to the advocacy community, writing that he would continue to support Thorn's work. Russell Brand's management agency terminated all professional ties to the actor and comedian after sexual assault allegations were published Saturday following a joint investigation by the Times of London, The Sunday Times and Channel 4 Dispatches. In a statement published on Sunday, Tavistock Wood Management Agency said they believe they "were horribly misled by him." "Russell Brand categorically and vehemently denied the allegation made in 2020, but we now believe we were horribly misled by him," the agency said. "TW has terminated all professional ties to Brand." Four women have come forward with allegations against Brand that include rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse. The allegations against Brand were published Saturday following a joint investigation by the Times of London, The Sunday Times and Channel 4 Dispatches. Brand has denied the allegations. "But amidst this litany of astonishing, rather baroque attacks are some very serious allegations that I absolutely refute," Brand said on a social media post. One of the women who alleges she was groomed and raped by Brand at 16, told The Times that she went to Brand's literary agent at Tavistock Wood in 2020 with the allegations. Three years later, Brand has been taken down from Tavistock Wood's website. The U.K. Metropolitan Police Service said they "are aware of the media reporting of a series of allegations of sexual assault." "At this time, we have not received any reports in relation to this. If anyone believes they have been the victim of a sexual assault, no matter how long ago it happened, we would encourage them to contact police," the statement read. The police service also said they spoke with the Sunday Times and will continue speaking to them and Channel 4 "to ensure that any victims of crime who they have spoken with are aware of how they may report any criminal allegations to police." Channel 4, The Times and The Sunday Times aired a special on Saturday entitled "Russel Brand: In Plain Sight." The documentary features five women who allege that Brand has raped, sexually assaulted or abused them. Some of the allegations made against Brand happened while he was working as a host and presenter for the BBC from 2006 to 2008. In a statement, the BBC said they "are urgently looking into the issues raised" by the documentary. "Russell Brand worked for a number of different organisations of which the BBC was one," the statement read. "As is well known, Russell Brand left the BBC after a serious editorial breach in 2008 as did the then controller of Radio 2. The circumstances of the breach were reviewed in detail at the time. We hope that demonstrates that the BBC takes issues seriously and is prepared to act." U.K. women's charity, Trevi Women, announced that they cut ties with Brand after the documentary aired on Channel 4 Dispatches. "We have ended our association with Russell Brand and the Stay Free Foundation," the charity said in a statement, referring to a charity run by the comedian to support people recovering from addiction. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin (L) and U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas (R) look on as President Joe Biden speaks about the government response and recovery efforts in Maui, Hawaii, and the ongoing response on Hurricane Idalia, in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington, D.C., Aug. 30, 2023. Saul Loeb | AFP | Getty Images President Joe Biden will address the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, where he plans to promote democracy and advocate for increased support for Ukraine. For Biden, it's another opportunity to advance the ideas of diplomacy and democracy against those of aggressive autocracies, as he did at the recent Group of 20 summit earlier this month. "[Biden] will lay out for the world the steps that he and his administration have taken to advance a vision of American leadership that is built on the premise of working with others to solve the world's most pressing problems," White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said in a briefing Friday. Biden's meetings, speech Leaders from at least 145 countries are slated to attend with a few notable exceptions: France, the United Kingdom, China and Russia will all be absent, meaning four of the five countries that hold permanent seats on the U.N. Security Council will not be in attendance. The absence of China and Russia gives Biden an opening to advance ties between the United States and smaller, developing nations. Biden is slated to meet Wednesday with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil, a key leader in the Global South who has also been a proponent of peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. Lula has argued the U.S. and other Western nations are prolonging the war with their defense support. The president will also meet with the leaders of the five central Asian nations of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, marking the first time a U.S. president has done so jointly. He will also meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the first time the pair have met since the prime minister won reelection last fall. This will be the first time Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has attended the U.N. summit in person since the war began in February 2022. He gave a prerecorded speech to the body at last year's session. "President Biden looks forward to hearing President Zelenskyy's perspective on all of this and to reaffirm for the world and for the United States, for the American people, his commitment to continuing to lead the world in supporting Ukraine," Sullivan said. A "substantial section" of Biden's speech will be devoted to the war in Ukraine, Sullivan said. "He will talk about the fundamental fact that the United Nations Charter ... speaks to the basic proposition that countries cannot attack their neighbors and steal their territory by force," Sullivan said, referring to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. "That was also a proposition that was at the core of the G20 statement last weekend." U.S. support for Ukraine Gov. Gavin Newsom holds press conference near Pajaro flooding after he toured damaged areas in Pajaro of Monterey County, California, United States on March 15, 2023 as atmospheric river storms hit California. California Governor Gavin Newsom says he will sign a bill that will require large businesses to account for their carbon emissions, including their scope 3 or supply chain emissions. State lawmakers passed the bill, SB253, last week. It will require businesses in California that earn over a billion dollars a year in revenue to publicly declare their greenhouse gas emissions. "That's over 5,300 businesses, so it's not insignificant, and of course they are multi-nationals and some of the most well-known businesses in the world," Newsom said. The law will make California the first location in the U.S. to require corporate carbon accounting and comes as the Securities and Exchange Commission considers how to regulate corporate climate disclosures. The SEC has so far not said whether it will include scope 3 emissions, which come from a company's suppliers and generally are the largest contributor. (Scope 1 emissions come directly from a company's operations and scope 2 measures emissions from purchased electricity, heat, and other sources of energy.) Newsom said he would sign SB253 and touted the state's leadership in climate issues at a Climate Week event in New York City on Sunday. "We talk about California, it's not just a state of dreamers and doers of entrepreneurs and innovators, but it's a state that's long prided itself on being on a leading and cutting edge. The future happens in California first," said Newsom. For example, California has led the nation in regulating tailpipe emissions and implementing low-carbon feel standards, Newsom said. Newsom thanked large businesses in the state, like Apple and Salesforce , which voiced their support for the climate disclosure regulations. "They see where the puck is going, they are going to do the right thing and support it," Newsom said. Newsom added a "modest caveat" that before signing the bill, his office needed to "clean up" some of the language in the bill. Citi is upgrading some of its services for institutional clients using blockchain technology. The banking giant introduced Citi Token Services on Monday, which will tokenize clients' deposits so they can be sent anywhere in the world instantly. "[If] you're a large multinational client where you have multiple bank accounts in multiple different regions across borders and you keep buffers of cash in each of these regions, it's really an inefficient use of cash," Ryan Rugg, global head of digital assets for Citi's Treasury and Trade Solutions business, said. With the new service, "if it's 5:00 p.m. in the U.S. and 5:00 a.m. in Singapore, but you need to get money there, you can send that immediately, within seconds." The bank is also now using smart contracts to automate the trade process. Smart contracts are self-executing programs that run automatically when the conditions of an agreement or contract are met. Citi tested the smart contract capability with shipping and logistics giant Maersk, a client of the bank. Rugg explained how the company prefunded a smart contract with digitized tokens. Once the company had received agreed-upon services from a canal authority, the token was automatically paid out. Citi's service could reduce transaction processing times from days to minutes, Rugg said. While crypto remains in regulatory limbo and prices have been almost stagnant this year, renewed excitement about tokenizing real-world assets using blockchain technology has emerged as one of the hottest topics of the year. Bernstein has said financial incumbents who want to be part of the modernization of financial markets need to be using blockchain technology, and that it sees about $5 trillion of real-world financial assets being tokenized on blockchains over the next five years. Citi's announcement is one of the most significant among financial institutions dipping their toes in digital assets. Investment manager Hamilton Lane has launched three tokenized funds. Meanwhile, KKR has tokenized a part of an equity fund through a partnership with Securitize. Franklin Templeton launched a mutual fund that settles transactions and records ownership data over different blockchains. Additionally, JPMorgan Chase has a bank-led blockchain platform called Onyx that focuses on international trade. Citi is using a private blockchain for its new services. Whether Citi or a company like it will ever have use for public blockchains in the future will depend on how regulations play out, Rugg said. "If regulation changes and regulators get comfortable with the public, we will definitely go down that route, but right now, from a regulatory standpoint, we're sticking with permissioned." NEW YORK, US - SEPTEMBER 17: Elon Musk arrives at the Turkish House to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan ahead of the 78th session of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in New York, United States on September 17, 2023. (Photo by Fatih Aktas/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images) Anadolu Agency | Anadolu Agency | Getty Images Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan invited Elon Musk to build his next Tesla factory in Turkey, the country's state media reported Monday. Erdogan on Sunday met with the Tesla and SpaceX CEO in New York while visiting the U.S. for the United Nations General Assembly. The two met at the Turkish House in Manhattan, a skyscraper located near the UN. "Recalling that with the Turkish electric car Togg hitting the roads in Turkiye, Tesla entered the Turkish market, Erdogan called on Tesla to establish its seventh factory in Turkiye," Turkish state news agency Anadolu reported, citing the country's communications directorate. NEW YORK, US - SEPTEMBER 17: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (R) meets with Elon Musk (L) ahead of the 78th session of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly at the Turkish House in New York, United States on September 17, 2023. (Photo by Murat Kula/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images) Anadolu Agency | Anadolu Agency | Getty Images Erdogan also offered collaboration opportunities with Musk's aerospace company SpaceX and Turkey's space program, and invited the billionaire inventor to Teknofest, Turkey's largest aviation, aerospace and technology festival taking place between late September and the end of October this year. Musk replied that a number of Turkish suppliers are already working with Tesla and that Turkey "is among the most important candidates" for his next factory, Anadolu wrote. CNBC has contacted the Turkish communications directorate for the full statement. Aerial view of Tesla's Shanghai Gigafactory on the outskirts of Shanghai, China in July 2021. Vcg | Visual China Group | Getty Images Tesla has six factories and is currently building a seventh in Mexico. In May, Musk said he would most likely select a destination for a new factory by year-end. He is reported to have already spoken with Indian government officials about opening a manufacturing facility for low-cost electric vehicles in India. Tesla did not immediately respond to a CNBC request for comment. The company's stock price is up 123% year to date. Erdogan and Musk also reportedly discussed cooperation on artificial intelligence and Starlink, SpaceX's satellite internet service. Musk reportedly expressed interest in obtaining the necessary licensing from Turkey's government to operate Starlink in the country of 85 million. Manufacturing powerhouse Turkey has positioned itself as a major manufacturing hub at the crossroads of Europe and Asia in recent decades. Between 2012 and 2022, manufacturing as a share of Turkey's GDP grew to about 19%, and the country aims to increase that to 21% by the end of this year as part of its 2023 Industry and Technology Strategy, according to U.S. Department of Commerce. Its strategy also includes state support for entrepreneurs, strengthened intellectual property laws, and major investment in STEM education and technology startups. The department reports that of Turkey's manufacturing exports, 36% are medium-tech products and 3% are high-tech products. Turkey plans to increase the proportion of its medium-tech exported products to 44% and its high-tech products to 6% by the end of 2023. Lithuania on July 6, 2022 exhibited a crowdfunded Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 combat military drone that it plans to send to Ukraine to help the war-torn country fight Russia's invasion. Petras Malukas | AFP | Getty Images Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (C) meets with Elon Musk (4th L) ahead of the 78th session of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly at the Turkish House in New York, United States on September 17, 2023. Murat Kula | Anadolu Agency | Getty Images FBI Director Christopher Wray testifies during a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies hearing on Capitol Hill May 10, 2023 in Washington, DC. WASHINGTON, D.C. FBI Director Christopher Wray said Monday that the federal government is relying more than ever on private sector support to ensure that U.S. infrastructure remains secure. Speaking at Mandiant's mWise Conference in Washington, Wray told a packed room of analysts and cybersecurity professionals that it's become "increasingly difficult to discern where cybercriminal activity ends and adversarial nation-state activity begins." Mandiant is owned by Google . Wray and the FBI have moved to interfere with ransomware infrastructure and groups alongside both international and domestic law enforcement, including notable disruptions of the Qakbot botnet and the Hive ransomware group. Wray said that artificial intelligence may help China's cyber intelligence operations in their efforts to overpower U.S. defenses, and reiterated that Chinese hackers outnumber the FBI's cyber and intelligence agents by at least 50 to 1. "Criminals and hostile governments are already exploiting the technology," Wray said. China is poised to "use the fruits of their widespread hacking to power, with AI, even-more-powerful hacking efforts," he added. In China, state-affiliated groups have been linked to influence campaigns on major social networks. But there are also attacks coming from elsewhere. North Korean hacking groups, for example, often seek to generate revenue for the government while gathering espionage for the state. And Russian hackers have extorted millions of dollars in ransom from businesses worldwide and targeted infrastructure in Ukraine and Eastern Europe. Wray said "it's becoming increasingly difficult to discern where cybercriminal activity ends and adversarial nation-state activity begins," like when the government sees "hackers who are profit-minded criminals by day and state-sponsored by night." While government efforts, including from the Cybersecurity Infrastructure Agency, have been effective, the U.S. relies heavily on "collaborative, public-private" operations to identify threats and stop them, he said. Wray said such partnerships aren't new. He cited joint efforts in 2021, after a cyberattack on Colonial Pipeline disrupted fuel supply across the East Coast. "We know the private sector hasn't always been excited about working with federal law enforcement," Wray said. "But when you contact us about an intrusion, we won't be showing up in raid jackets." Wray praised Colonial's rapid response and its quick engagement of Mandiant, which helped ease information sharing with the government and allowed the FBI to "quickly make substantial breakthroughs" in identifying the cybercriminals behind the attack. WATCH: China's Corporate Spy War Dr. Niels Olson uses the Augmented Reality Microscope. U.S. Department of Defense In his office at the VA hospital in Seattle, Dr. Nadeem Zafar needed to settle a debate. Zafar is a pathologist, the kind of doctor that carries out clinical lab tests on bodily fluids and tissues to diagnose conditions like cancer. It's a specialty that often operates behind the scenes, but it's a crucial backbone of medical care. Late last year, Zafar's colleague consulted with him about a prostate cancer case. It was clear that the patient had cancer, but the two doctors disagreed about how severe it was. Zafar believed the cancer was more aggressive than his colleague did. Zafar turned to his microscope a canonically beloved tool in pathology that the doctors rely on to help make their diagnoses. But the device is no ordinary microscope. It's an artificial intelligence-powered microscope built by Google and the U.S. Department of Defense. The pair ran the case through the special microscope, and Zafar was right. In seconds, the AI flagged the exact part of the tumor that Zafar believed was more aggressive. After the machine backed him up, Zafar said his colleague was convinced. "He had a smile on his face, and he agreed with that," Zafar told CNBC in an interview. "This is the beauty of this technology, it's kind of an arbitrator of sorts." The AI-powered tool is called an Augmented Reality Microscope, or ARM, and Google and the Department of Defense have been quietly working on it for years. The technology is still in its early days and is not actively being used to help diagnose patients yet, but initial research is promising, and officials say it could prove to be a useful tool for pathologists without easy access to a second opinion. A new tool for pathologists Augmented Reality Microscope at Mitre Ashley Capoot | CNBC There are currently 13 ARMs in existence, and one is located at a Mitre facility just outside of Washington, D.C. Mitre is a nonprofit that works with government agencies to tackle big problems involving technology. Researchers there are working with the ARM to identify the vulnerabilities that could cause issues for pathologists in a clinical setting. At first glance, the ARM looks a lot like a microscope that could be found in a high school biology classroom. The device is beige with a large eyepiece and a tray for examining traditional glass slides, but it's also connected to a boxy computer tower that houses the AI models. When a glass slide is prepared and fixed under the microscope, the AI is able to outline where cancer is located. The outline appears as a bright green line that pathologists can see through their eyepiece and on a separate monitor. The AI also indicates how bad the cancer is, and generates a black and white heat map on the monitor that shows the boundary of the cancer in a pixelated form. CNBC demoed the ARM with researchers at the Mitre facility in August. View of what pathologists see on their screen when they use the ARM. Ashley Capoot | CNBC Patrick Minot, a senior autonomous systems engineer at Mitre, said since the AI is overlaid directly onto the microscope's field of view, it doesn't interrupt the pathologists' established workflow. The easy utility is an intentional design choice. In recent years, pathologists have been contending with workforce shortages, just like many other corners of health care. But pathologists' caseloads have also been mounting as the general population grows older. It's a dangerous combination for the specialty. If pathologists are stretched too thin and miss something, it can have serious consequences for patients. Several organizations have been trying to digitize pathologists' workflows as a way to increase efficiency, but digital pathology comes with its own host of challenges. Digitizing a single slide can require over a gigabyte of storage, so the infrastructure and costs associated with large-scale data collection can balloon quickly. For many smaller health systems, digitization is not yet worth the hassle. The ARM is not meant to replace digital pathology systems, but Minot said it can help health organizations bypass the need for them. Pathologists have the option to take screen grabs of slides using ARM's software, for instance, which are much less expensive to store. The ARM will usually cost health systems between $90,000 to $100,000. Minot added that the ARM ensures the physical microscope, not just a computer, remains an integral part of the pathologists' process. Many have warned him not to mess with their microscopes, he joked. 'Big data is what Silicon Valley does best' Dr. Niels Olson uses the Augmented Reality Microscope. Source: U.S. Department of Defense Few understand the challenges facing pathologists quite like Dr. Niels Olson, the chief medical officer of the Defense Innovation Unit, or DIU, at the Department of Defense. The DIU was created in 2015 as a way for the military to integrate cutting-edge technology developed by the commercial world. The organization negotiates contracts with companies so they can collaborate and circumvent long bureaucratic hang ups. Olson is a pathologist, and before beginning his role at the DIU, he served in the U.S. Navy. In 2018, he was sent to Guam, a U.S. island territory in Micronesia, where he worked as the laboratory medical director and blood bank director in the Naval Hospital. During his two years in Guam, Olson was one of two pathologists on the island, and the only pathologist in the Naval Hospital. This meant he was often making major decisions and diagnoses on his own. "It's not just your job to say 'This is cancer, it's this kind of cancer.' Part of the job is saying 'It's absolutely not cancer,' and that can be nerve wracking when you're alone," Olson told CNBC in an interview. "I would have loved to have an Augmented Reality Microscope in Guam, just so there'd be somebody, something else helping." The ARM is meant to serve as a second line of defense for pathologists, and Olson said it would not replace the doctors themselves. He added that the obvious initial use case for the microscope would be in smaller, remote labs, and it could also serve as a resource for pathology residents in training. But Olson had dreamed up a tool like the ARM long before his time in Guam. On Aug. 10, 2016, while working as a resident in the Naval Medical Center in San Diego, Olson decided to message a connection he had at Google. In the email, which was viewed by CNBC, Olson described a rough idea of what a microscope like the ARM could be. For a while, Olson said he heard nothing. But months later, he was standing in a Google office building in Mountain View, California, crammed in a locked room that only a few people at the company had access to. There, he watched as an early AI-powered microscope successfully identified cancer on a small set of slides he had brought with him. Olson said the room was sweltering because everyone inside was so "pumped." "I don't want to say it's quite like seeing your kid for the first time, but it was sort of like, this is awesome, this is gonna be a thing," Olson said. Around the time he was sent to Guam, a product manager at the DIU came across Olson's research. The pair wrote an article together in 2019 about how the Department of Defense and Silicon Valley could work together to leverage AI. They said there are millions of patients enrolled in the federal government's health care systems, which means it boasts "the most comprehensive healthcare dataset in the world." That data has obvious commercial use. "Big data is what Silicon Valley does best, and the potential for spillover into civilian healthcare systems is vast," they wrote. Shortly thereafter, the DIU began looking for commercial partners to help build and test the ARM. The organization picked the optical technology company Jenoptik to handle the hardware, and after evaluating 39 companies, it selected Google to develop the software. Aashima Gupta, global director of health care strategy and solutions at Google Cloud, said the company has since launched four algorithms for the ARM which can identify breast cancer, cervical cancer, prostate cancer and mitosis. The AI models are trained on data from the DIU, and Gupta said neither Google employees nor Google infrastructure have access to it. "It's encrypted all the way," Gupta told CNBC in an interview. "From how the data is collected, how it is stored and how it is analyzed, and anything in between." A 'huge' amount of testing to be done Here are some of the tickers on my radar for Monday, Sept. 18 taken directly from my reporter's notebook: Evercore cuts Netflix Citi takes American Airlines Delta Air Lines Bernstein starts Arm Holdings (ARM) with an underperform (sell) rating. The U.K. chip designer returned to the public markets Thursday up nearly 25%. Arm dropped nearly 4.5% on Friday. Down another 3% early Monday. If you like this story, sign up for Jim Cramer's Top 10 Morning Thoughts on the Market email newsletter for free. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Malta held talks this weekend in Malta. "Candid, substantive and constructive talks," according to both sides. China detains some of China Evergrande employees at the troubled property giant's wealth management division. I have been waiting for this. MoffetNathanson downgrades PayPal Mastercard Visa Jefferies downgrades Planet Fitness Wedbush upgrades Carvana Homebuilder Lennar Mizuho bumps up price targtets some oil stocks: Exxon Mobil Valero Energy Law enforcement officers escort Danilo Cavalcante from a Pennsylvania State Police barracks in Avondale, Pennsylvania, Sept. 13. Cavalcante was captured Wednesday after eluding hundreds of searchers for two weeks. AP-Yonhap Nine youths who broke out of a juvenile detention center in Pennsylvania have been recaptured, U.S. police said Monday, with four of them knocking on a stranger's door after one night on the run. The incident was the latest involving a detention facility in the eastern state, where a massive manhunt last week captured murderer Danilo Cavalcante who spent 13 days evading authorities after his escape. "All nine of the escapees from last night were picked up within the last two hours," most of them within a few miles (kilometers) of the Abraxas Academy, a juvenile facility in Morgantown, northwest of Philadelphia, said Pennsylvania state trooper David Beohm. State police and other law enforcement officers had been searching for the group that escaped at around 8 pm Sunday night. Four of the youths, after wandering in thick woods to avoid a police cordon, essentially gave themselves up by banging on a stranger's front door. "They were tired. They were cold," Beohm told a press conference. The other five stole a vehicle and were engaged in a brief chase with police before they were detained, he said. "They'll all be charged with escape," in addition to any other crimes they may have committed while on the run, according to Beohm. Late Sunday, Caernarvon Township Police Department said the youths had escaped during "a riot" at Abraxas Academy. But Beohm refuted that description, saying the juveniles "overtook two of the (security officers) to get the keys" and escaped the building. Beohm said about 60 officers were involved in the search, along with K-9 units and drones. Abraxas offers "detention services" and a "residential treatment program (that) provides specialized care for delinquent male youth between the ages of 14 to 18," according to its website. It is located about 15 miles west of the rural Pennsylvania town where Cavalcante was captured Wednesday after two weeks on the run. The manhunt for the 34-year-old Brazilian national, sentenced to life in prison for murdering his girlfriend, ended when he was subdued by a police dog after having avoided drones, helicopters and law enforcement. "I figured we'd catch these kids because they're probably not as resilient as a 30-something-year-old... that knows he's going to jail for the rest of his life," Beohm said. (AFP) IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel testifies before a Senate Finance Committee hearing on Feb. 15, 2023. Kevin Lamarque | Reuters As the IRS pauses on processing new claims for a pandemic-era small business tax break, some filers are in limbo as the agency works on further guidance. The IRS on Thursday temporarily halted processing for amended payroll tax returns claiming the so-called employee retention tax credit, or ERC, which was enacted during the Covid-19 pandemic. Worth thousands per eligible employee, the IRS said the program has triggered a flood of "questionable claims," as a cottage industry of specialist firms has popped up and pressured small businesses to wrongly claim the tax relief. More from Personal Finance: IRS halts processing of a small business tax break Does your business qualify for the employee retention credit? House scrutinizes pandemic-era small business tax break "Businesses that receive ERC payments improperly face the daunting prospect of paying those back, so we urge the utmost caution," IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel said on Thursday, urging small businesses to review claims with a qualified tax professional. In the meantime, the IRS is working on further guidance on how to withdraw unprocessed ERC claims, along with a settlement program for small businesses who wrongly received the credit and want to pay it back. 'There's no need to panic' While affected small businesses may be concerned, "there's no need to panic here," said Jennifer Rohen, a principal at CliftonLarsonAllen with expertise in claiming the ERC. If you claimed the credit and are worried about eligibility, it's an excellent time to review your filing with a qualified tax professional, she said. The IRS has released a detailed ERC eligibility checklist to assist filers. The credit was designed for small businesses and tax-exempt organizations that paid employees during government-mandated shutdowns or experienced a "significant decline in gross receipts" during certain periods in 2020 and 2021. My blanket advice is always to talk to a qualified tax professional who has filed [ERC claims] before. Craig Hausz CEO and managing partner at CMH Advisors "My blanket advice is always to talk to a qualified tax professional who has filed [ERC claims] before," said certified financial planner Craig Hausz, CEO and managing partner at CMH Advisors in Dallas. He is also a certified public accountant. If you received the credit and know you don't qualify, Hausz said you should start the process of paying the money back. "I think the IRS is going to be a lot more lenient on abating penalties and interest if someone proactively sends money back," he added. There's still time for a 'valid claim' watch now In this article ABNB Follow your favorite stocks CREATE FREE ACCOUNT Many Airbnb users with bookings in New York City this Christmas are scrambling to find new accommodations. The company announced plans to cancel and refund bookings for stays after Dec. 1, according to the Associated Press, after long-planned regulations aimed at curbing illegal short-term rentals in the city went into effect on Sept. 5. The regulations, which caused an uproar among travelers and short-term rental owners, require hosts be present for stays of less than 30 days, with no more than two people staying in a dwelling at a time. Hosts must also register and get approval from the city or both hosts and booking sites may be subject to hefty fines. The travel industry website Skift estimates Airbnb short-term listings in New York City dropped 77% from June 4 to Sept. 10, likely sending many in search of new accommodations. watch now "Over the past week, we've seen the strongest booking pace for the forward six-month period than we've seen at any time going back to 2015," Kevin Davis, CEO of JLL Hotels & Hospitality's Americas, told "Squawk Box Asia" Monday. "In addition, if you look at Google searches, just over the past week for New York City hotels, those are up 24%, relative to the past 60-day period," he said. "We're seeing a tremendous amount of interest in people staying in New York City hotels." NYC hotel rates to go up New York City has more than enough hotels to meet traveler demand, Davis said, citing an unprecedented supply of new hotel rooms in the city. "Since 2020, 10,000 new hotel rooms have been delivered, and over the next couple of years, another 10,000 new hotel rooms will be delivered to the city," he said. "So there's absolutely more than enough supply of hotel rooms to accommodate all the tourists that want to come to New York City." watch now Still, with most short-term rentals off the table, Davis said hotel rates are likely to rise. "The message for your viewers is if they're thinking about coming to New York City, they should plan to make the reservation sooner rather than later," he said, "We expect prices will likely increase, particularly as we get deeper into the year." Demand will also get a boost from a drop in airfares in the United States, as airlines try to spur fall travel demand, Davis told CNBC's Mandy Drury. "In New York City, for example, actually August relative to July, fares were down 14%," Davis said. "If you look at fares from major cities in the U.S. into New York City, they're down about 17%, so consumers are definitely seeing a break in airfare today." Knock-on effect From London to Paris and Dubai, cities across the world have regulated short-term rental markets. But New York's regulations go further than most, leading to concerns that other cities may adopt similar measures. "It's certainly possible that they could follow the lead of New York City," Davis said. "My best guess, though, is that they'll likely see what happens over the next six to 12 months in terms of enforcement and what the implications are for the city before you actually see similar types of legislation passed in other cities." What were seeing in the short-term rental space now is, frankly, a correction. Kevin Davis CEO, JLL Hotels & Hospitality's Americas Stricter short-term housing rules are on the table in the United States in cities like Atlanta, Dallas and New Orleans, Davis said as well places like Florence, Italy and Melbourne, Australia. During the pandemic, many homeowners marketed their properties on Airbnb to make money during a period of unprecedented demand for short-term rentals by leisure travelers, Davis said. "What we're seeing in the short-term rental space now is, frankly, a correction and a reversion to the mean," he said. "Leisure travel is starting to pull back now, and as a result, you're seeing a softening in short term rental demand in many markets." CNBC's Chiew Tong Goh contributed to this report. Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., talks with reporters after a meeting of the House Republican Conference in the U.S. Capitol to discus an impeachment inquiry of President Joe Biden on Thursday, September 14, 2023. WASHINGTON Key factions of the House Republican Conference reached a tentative agreement Sunday to keep the government funded temporarily and avert a shutdown scheduled for the end of the month, pairing it with a conservative border security measure, multiple GOP sources with knowledge of the agreement said. House Republicans released a bill after the far-right Freedom Caucus and the center-right Main Street Caucus reached a tentative agreement, the sources said. The deal, which would keep the government funded through Oct. 31 but includes cuts to domestic spending, is expected to pave the way to pass a defense spending bill this week that has been tied up in the standoff between Republican leadership and the far right. If the legislation passes the House, it would resolve one internal problem for Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., while creating a new one. The controversial immigration provisions and reduced spending levels make it all but guaranteed to die in the Democratic-led Senate, meaning it could do more to hasten a shutdown at the end of September than prevent one. The bill would cut domestic spending by 8% with exceptions for the military and veterans funding. It includes most of the Secure the Border Act of 2023, a wish list of immigration provisions for GOP hard-liners, with the exception of provisions requiring employers to use E-Verify to check immigration status. The legislation has been a big priority for Freedom Caucus members. And while it passed the House in May, the Senate has ignored it. Notably, the temporary government funding legislation doesn't mention Ukraine aid or disaster relief, two priorities for the White House and many lawmakers in both parties. Rep. Rosa DeLauro of Connecticut, the top Democrat on the Appropriations Committee, trashed the bill as "extreme" in a statement, accusing House Republicans of trying to "cut funding to the National Institutes of Health including funding for cancer research, defund the police, and decrease resources to important allies like Ukraine and Israel," instead of "working on bipartisan solution[s] that could be enacted." She added that "it is time to end the charade and to get to work." The lawmakers named on the bill are Reps. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., Dusty Johnson, R-S.D., Scott Perry, R-Pa., Stephanie Bice, R-Okla., Chip Roy, R-Texas, and Kelly Armstrong, R-N.D. House Republicans, who have a slim majority, discussed the measure on a call at 8 p.m. ET Sunday. It's unclear whether the bill will get enough votes to pass the House. Without Democratic support, McCarthy can afford no more than four defections. Rep. Dan Bishop, R-N.C., quickly came out against it. "No CR. Pass the damn approps bills. Roll back the crazy bureaucracy to pre-COVID levels. Now," Bishop said on social media. Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-Texas, said Sunday evening after the bill was released: "It's crystal clear a Gov't shutdown is coming. I represent 66% of the Texas-Mexico border a hollow Continuing Resolution built to win a messaging battle does nothing to keep America safe." Earlier in the day, McCarthy urged his colleagues to avert a shutdown in an appearance on Fox News. "A shutdown would only give strength to the Democrats," he said. "It would give the power to Biden. It wouldn't pay our troops. It wouldn't pay our border agents. More people would be coming across. I actually want to achieve something." Perry, the Freedom Caucus chair, said in a statement Sunday night: "HFC Members have worked over the weekend with the Main Street Caucus on a path forward to fund the government and secure America's border. We now have a framework for our colleagues across the House Republican Conference." A pedestrian passes a smoke shop in New York City on June 16, 2023. New York authorities are cracking down on unlicensed smoke shops that are selling cannabis. Spencer Platt | Getty Images News | Getty Images New York officials are ramping up efforts to stop the statewide proliferation of unlicensed smoke shops selling marijuana, as the state struggles to boot up its legal marketplace. Since cannabis became legal in the state in 2021, thousands of unlicensed vendors selling marijuana, edibles, vape products and more have been undermining the state's legal weed industry, with the issue being most pronounced in New York City. Currently, there are just 23 legal dispensaries open across the state, with only nine in New York City. A new report by New York City's Independent Budget Office determined that an estimated 1,500 unlicensed retailers in the city may hold as much as $484 million worth of marijuana products. If all those items were sold legally, the sales would generate $19.4 million in revenue for the city, the report found. The state has started to crack down on the unlicensed shops by increasing inspections of stores, which can face fines or closure. But its effort has only begun to chip away at the vendors, particularly in New York City. "We're getting to as many as we can," said Daniel Haughney, enforcement director at the state Office of Cannabis Management, in an interview with CNBC. A notice from New York state's Office of Cannabis Management posted in a storefront window in New York City announces the seizure of "illicit cannabis" at the business, June 16, 2023. Spencer Platt | Getty Images News | Getty Images The state is employing increasingly aggressive tactics to curb the growth of weed's black market, which consumers often turn to for cheaper, untaxed product. Cracking down on the stores is not only a legal consideration but also an economic one, as illicit sales do not bring revenue to the state. New York imposes a retail tax of 13% on all marijuana products and an additional tax based on potency levels of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, marijuana's psychoactive component. In addition to skirting the tax system, smoke shops operating illegally may also pose significant health risks. A 2022 study commissioned by the New York Medical Cannabis Industry Association that reviewed products from 20 illicit stores in New York City found about 40% contained harmful contaminants such as E.coli, lead and salmonella. The state's Cannabis Control Board announced Tuesday that it will make more licenses available by opening up applications to the general public as well as large multistate manufacturers and medical companies. Previously, retail licenses were limited only to applicants with prior marijuana-related convictions, under the state's Conditional Adult Use Retail Dispensary, or CAURD, program. The move is expected to add more legal shops to the state. How New York's illegal weed crackdown is working SpaceX and Tesla CEO Elon Musk arrives for a U.S. Senate bipartisan forum on artificial intelligence at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 13, 2023. Elon Musk discussed his plans for Twitter, now called X, on Monday during a livestreamed conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Among other things, Musk said the social network is "moving to having a small monthly payment for use of the X system" in order to combat "vast armies of bots." Musk did not say how much a new plan would cost users of the social network, or what other features would or would not be included with payment at the lowest tier. During the livestream, Musk also divulged some new metrics from X, saying it now has 550 million "monthly users," who generate 100 million to 200 million posts per day. Musk did not disclose how many of the company's monthly users are authentic, versus bots. He also did not make an apples-to-apples comparison with metrics previously used by Twitter. In May 2022, before Musk's takeover, Twitter reported that it had "average monetizable daily active usage" of 229 million. The discussion with Netanyahu was meant to focus on theoretical risks of artificial intelligence technology, and how AI should potentially be regulated. However, Musk also used it to dispute the perception that his social network tolerates hate speech and antisemitism. The meeting followed widespread criticism of Musk by civil rights groups over his amplification of bigotry on his social network, including antisemitic accounts, content and conspiracies. In recent weeks, Musk has threatened to sue the Anti-Defamation League, a Jewish-led organization, alleging that they tried to "kill" his social network. Musk has blamed the ADL, rather than his own business decisions, for a 60% drop in revenue at X and said he had "no choice" but to file a defamation lawsuit against the group. Musk and X Corp. have not yet filed any known lawsuit against the ADL, and did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Before meeting with Netanyahu, Musk also accused George Soros' foundation of wanting to "destroy" Western civilization. The Hungarian-American Jewish philanthropist is the founder of Open Society Foundations, which donates to a variety of civil society groups, and he is the subject of several antisemitic conspiracy theories. On his social media platform, Musk has repeatedly disparaged transgender people, federal regulators, politicians, journalists, whistleblowers, critics of his companies, and short sellers. Despite that history, Musk told Netanyahu on Monday, "I'm sort of against attacking any group, you know. Doesn't matter who it is." Referring to his goal of humanity becoming "a spacefaring civilization," he said, "We can't do that if there's a lot of infighting and, you know, hatred and negativity." After acquiring Twitter for around $44 billion in late October, Musk implemented massive staff cuts and sweeping changes to the platform. He continues to run the company as its largest shareholder, chief technical officer and executive chairman, and also is the CEO of automaker Tesla and aerospace company SpaceX. Among other changes, he gave "amnesty" to previously suspended accounts a move that online safety and hate speech experts strongly criticized. Under his management, the platform restored the account of former President Donald Trump, who was previously banned by Twitter for encouraging the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection. Musk's Twitter also restored the personal accounts of Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., and neo-Nazi website founder Andrew Anglin. Musk also eliminated Twitter's "blue check" system of verification, which helped users to identify authentic accounts belonging to public figures including celebrities, elected officials, scientists, authors, leaders in business and education, working journalists and others. Under the social network's current system, users who pay a fee can show a blue subscriber badge next to their names. Those who pay see their posts prioritized in other users' feeds. Those who don't pay are relegated to lower levels of amplification for their posts or may see lower engagement on the platform. On Monday, Musk repeated his belief that turning users into paid subscribers would make it cumbersome and unaffordable to deploy bots on the platform. X is trying to obtain licenses to become a money transmitter across the U.S. currently. According to public records, it has already obtained permission to do so in 8 states. Marc Benioff, chief executive officer of Salesforce.com Inc., right, greets attendees after a keynote at the company's Dreamforce conference in San Francisco on Sept. 12, 2023. Benioff said new product features, including those powered by artificial intelligence, will be demonstrated at the company's annual conference in September. Ariel Kelman had been away from Salesforce for over a decade, when he received a direct message on Twitter from CEO Marc Benioff in early April. Benioff wanted to know if the marketing executive, who'd had leadership roles at Amazon Web Services and Oracle since leaving Salesforce, was ready to come back. "I just thought it was good timing," Kelman said in an interview at Salesforce's Dreamforce conference in San Francisco last week. Kelman spent the few months prior running marketing at a startup called Fireblocks before rejoining Salesforce in June as chief marketing officer. "This is a company that I had a great time at," he said. Miguel Milano, who led sales in major international markets for Salesforce for over a decade, also returned in June with the title of chief revenue officer. Milano was lured back by Salesforce operating chief Brian Millham, who spent some of his vacation in Madrid talking his former colleague into rejoining after three years at startup Celonis. "It took a couple swipes," Millham said at Dreamforce. Kelman and Milano are among at least eight ex-Salesforce execs who have rejoined the gang in 2023, as the company approaches its 25th birthday. Benioff, who saw co-CEO Bret Taylor depart early this year after just a year sharing the top job, is turning to more of the old guard to help drive Salesforce through a challenging economy and an era of slowing growth. Prior to the tech downdraft that started in 2022, Salesforce was feasting on large acquisitions, shelling out about $50 billion in total for MuleSoft, Tableau and Slack between 2018 and 2021. Having placed those big bets to fuel sales growth and expansion into new markets, Salesforce is trying to make the most of what it has, refining its sales approach and becoming more reliant on its own products. During Dreamforce, which drew over 40,000 people to its hometown, the company hosted an event for 50 former employees who were given designated seats at the show and custom swag, such as a stuffed animal wearing a yellow shirt with an illustration of a multicolored boomerang. Current executives were there to greet them, a spokesperson said. On Salesforce's Aug. 30 earnings call, Benioff said it's been great to welcome back his former colleagues. Millham told CNBC that it's easy to get them reacquainted. "You don't have to be there each and every day to ensure they're doing the work," he said. "One of the benefits of boomerangs is they hit the ground running." Data from the Institute of Policy Studies showed that women aged 20 to 24 are now less likely to give birth than women aged 35 to 39. Mai Yo | Klaud9 | Getty Images SINGAPORE Almost two decades ago, Loh and her husband made a decision not to have children. Today, 17 years later, the two of them are convinced they made the right choice. "I may feel differently when I'm on my deathbed and have to die alone, but at the moment, the choice seems right to us," said the 46-year-old who works in the tech industry. Loh, who did not want to give her full name, is not alone. Singapore's birth rate hit a record low in 2022, after years of decline. Live births last year plummeted by 7.9%, due to how expensive it is to live in Singapore, and the high cost of living continues to steer many away from expanding their family, analysts told CNBC. Having a child is tied to many things the affordability of a house, a spouse, and the maturity of the job market that makes you feel secure enough to do it. Jaya Dass Asia-Pacific managing director, Ranstad Birth rates increased slightly in 2022 to 1.12 from 1.1 the year before when people stayed home during Covid and had more children. Still, fertility trends have shown women are also choosing to have children later in life, or not at all. Data from the Singapore Department of Statistics showed that women between the ages of 25 and 29 are now less likely to give birth than women between 35 to 39 years old. "Having a child is tied to many things the affordability of a house, a spouse, and the maturity of the job market that makes you feel secure enough to do it," Jaya Dass, Ranstad's Asia-Pacific managing director. "The attractiveness of wanting to have a child has actually reduced significantly because of how life has matured and changed," Dass said. Money isn't the solution Already grappling with an aging population, Singapore is also facing one of the world's lowest fertility rates, prompting the government to dole out incentives and "bonuses" to encourage people to have children. Couples with babies born from Feb. 14 will receive 11,000 Singapore dollars ($8,000) each for their first and second child, and S$13,000 for their third child and beyond that's a 30% to 37% jump from before. Women in Singapore are choosing to have children later in life, or not at all. D3sign | Moment | Getty Images Government-paid paternity leave was doubled, increasing from two to four weeks for fathers of babies born from 2024. Although there are a slew of government policies aimed at encouraging more couples to have children, "throwing money" at the problem will not solve it, said Wen Wei Tan, analyst at the Economist Intelligence Unit. "Tackling the fertility rate will require us to confront some of the weakness of the underlying systems ... Which means not only addressing demographic challenges, but also helping to build social cohesion, and perhaps look at how we can foster healthier attitudes towards risk taking," EIU's Tan said. Most expensive city In 2022, the EIU ranked Singapore as the most expensive city to live in, sharing the top spot with New York City. Owning a home together is also a challenge for young couples. House prices in the city-state continue to rise rapidly, increasing by 7.5% year-on-year in June 2023, CEIC data showed. Public housing apartments known locally as HDB flats are in high demand but supply is not catching up, said Tan from the EIU. Construction came to a standstill during the pandemic, as labor shortages and the high cost of raw materials delayed housing projects, and couples had to wait twice as long for their apartments, causing some to marry later. This, however, is just one part of the problem, as there are many other costs associated with raising children in Singapore, according to Mu Zheng, assistant professor at the department of sociology and anthropology at the National University of Singapore. "There is a sense of instability is dragging people further away from having children," Zheng told CNBC. Working mothers The high cost of living in Singapore is leading to more couples with two incomes and no kids sometimes referred to as Dinks, a slang for "dual income, no kids." That is also due to a mindset change and more couples being willing to put their career ahead of marriage and having kids. "Once women have children, they're going to see a slowdown in their career progression. Many make the decision to wait till they feel secure and stable in their jobs so there won't be a serious threat to their income if they take time away from work," said Tan Poh Lin, senior research fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy. More couples are willing to put their career ahead of marriage and having kids. Carlina Teteris | Moment | Getty Images Delaying marriage means people may get more opportunities to pursue higher education, leading some to be more selective and have greater expectations of their future partners, said Dass. In 2022, 36.2% of residents who were 25 years and above had a university degree that's compared to 25.7% a decade ago. However, Dass highlighted that this is not necessarily a bad thing because "the minute education and literacy increases among women, their ability to come into the workforce and contribute to the economy increases." Shrinking labor force A declining birth rate, coupled with an aging population, will have repercussions on Singapore's labor force. "Having fewer children means you have a smaller workforce that can contribute to the economy. And with Singapore's high life expectancy, the dependency ratio will increase," said EIU's Tan. Singapore's population is ageing rapidly and 1 in 4 Singaporeans will be over 65 years old by 2030. Jayk7 | Moment | Getty Images Members of the rescue teams from the Egyptian army carry a dead body as they walk in the mud between the destroyed buildings, after a powerful storm and heavy rainfall hit Libya, in Derna, Libya September 13, 2023. Ahmed Elumami | Reuters Storm Daniel has left Libya, a country grappling with conflict and economic crisis for over a decade, in catastrophe. With little resource for search and rescue, experts warn that humanitarian partners will need tens of millions of dollars to respond to the needs of those impacted on the ground. According to the UN Development Programme, "humanitarian partners are requesting $71.4 million to respond to the most urgent needs of 250,000 people targeted out of the 884,000 people estimated to be in need, over the next three months." Roula Abubaker, a spokesperson for UNDP, told CNBC the organization is still gathering data from the mission on the ground to determine the full cost of the damage. Over 3,000 people have been killed and more than 9,000 remain missing with the toll expected to rise, according to the World Health Organization, but numbers have been difficult to verify. Meanwhile the International Organization for Migration estimates 40,000 people have been internally displaced following the storm. Medical centers are struggling to treat civilians and morgues are running out of space for the deceased. Maxar satellite imagery of streets amd neighborhoods after the catastrophic flooding that struck the Libyan coastal city of Derna. Maxar Technologies | Getty Images "No matter how many pictures you see about Derna, you did not see anything. We don't need water or food. We need specialized and experienced rescue teams," Mohamed Elkwafi, a volunteer with the Eastern Libyan National Army Security Units in Derna, told CNBC. The rare Mediterranean hurricane tore through dams in Libya's eastern port city of Derna, Soussa, Benghazi, Albayda and several other cities, leaving a grim aftermath. The storm moved over land, resulting in severe flash floods and extreme rainfall that collapsed infrastructure and homes. Storm Daniel developed in early September over Greece causing fatalities before migrating to Turkey and Bulgaria and through North Africa. Libya's political challenge Libya's government has been marred by conflict since 2011 after the fall of dictator Moammar Gadhafi, who ruled the oil-rich North African country for four decades. The government was split into two administrations after renewed tensions from the rise of militias in 2014. One administration is based in the country's east and the other in the capital Tripoli. A ceasefire was brokered in 2020 but Libya remains deeply fragmented after the Government of National Unity was formed in Tripoli in 2021. A man sits on a damaged car, after a powerful storm and heavy rainfall hit Libya, in Derna, Libya September 12, 2023. Esam Omran Al-Fetori | Reuters Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh rules as the internationally recognized prime minister in Benghazi. Another rival government was formed in 2022 in the east called the Government of National Stability, leaving two parties vying for control. Despite the deep divisions between the east and the west, when it comes to search and rescue, Mohamed Elkwafi told CNBC he has been working "with all the security units, medical teams, and rescue teams as one team." Libya's reconstruction The Central Bank of Libya convened an emergency meeting last Thursday to discuss support for the impacted areas. The bank shared the outcome on X, formerly known as Twitter: "The committee reached a number of recommendations, the most important of which is opening a bank account with the Central Bank of Libya, specifically dedicated to collecting donations from commercial banks." The financial institution was previously split in two entities in 2014 for nearly a decade but reunified in August. Libya's economy has struggled since the fall of Gadhafi with decentralization, but the country's vast oil and gas reserves, which are the biggest in Africa, remain its dominant source of revenue. While terminals initially closed, the storm has not impacted Libya's output, which is around 1.2 million barrels per day. The World Bank projected this year a potential uptick in economic growth with help from monetary contributions if conflict ceases. The International Monetary Fund has yet to announce financial aid but Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva tweeted: "The IMF stands ready to provide the Libyan authorities any assistance they may need." The IMF began re-surveilling Libya in June after a decade-long hiatus. General view of flood water covering the area as a powerful storm and heavy rainfall hit Al-Mukhaili, Libya September 11, 2023, in this handout picture. Libya Al-Hadath | via Reuters Bob van Dijk Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images The immediate and mutually agreed departure of Naspers and Prosus CEO Bob van Dijk underscores a complicated few years for a firm seen riding on the coattails of its holdings in Chinese tech giant, Tencent . In June, the Dutch-based e-commerce investor, Prosus, which is majority-owned by South African multi-national Naspers won shareholder and regulatory approval to unwind its complex ownership structure. The South African Reserve Bank gave Naspers the greenlight to begin buying back more of its shares from Prosus. 'Getting rid' of the cross holding Prior to the current structure, Naspers (headquartered in South Africa) owned a third of Chinese internet giant Tencent Holdings. This was an investment made by current chairman and founder of Naspers, Koos Bekker, as early as 2001, when he paid $34 million for a 46.5% stake in the business. Van Dijk oversaw the decision to split off its holding of Tencent and other tech holdings into Prosus in 2019. In the meantime, Tencent's market capitalization rocketed close to $1 trillion as the stock boomed during the Covid-19 pandemic. This meant Naspers made up nearly a quarter of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange which was a problem for some fund managers. Then in 2021, Naspers developed a crossholding using a share swap deal. Prosus issued new shares to buy a 45.4% stake in Naspers, and this effectively moved a slice of Naspers from the Johannesburg exchange to Amsterdam's Euronext. But that crossholding offered little value to investors with van Dijk telling Reuters at the time: "They [shareholders] said we don't like this cross holding, it creates complexity. We've listened to them. And we're basically getting rid of that now." Stepping up On Monday the business also announced, on a call with investors, that the unwinding of the crossholding had officially been completed with the business now aiming to maintain profitability going into the first half of the 2025 fiscal year. Erwin Tu, Prosus' group chief investment officer has been named interim CEO, with Citi saying in a research note that it sees "a good chance of him becoming permanent CEO. "We suspect the decision has not been sudden, but rather one the company preferred to announce following the completion of the unwind of the cross-holding process," the Citi analysts said. Tu was previously a managing partner at the SoftBank Vision Fund where he also co-led M&A and corporate finance for SoftBank Group International. He was also managing director in the technology banking group at Goldman Sachs. watch now The United Auto Workers strike entered Day 4 on Monday, and both sides remained far apart on pay hikes. Club name Ford (F), which has the most UAW members of all of the big three Detroit automakers (D3), might have to take things into their own hands, Jim Cramer said Monday after a weekend of little progress in reaching a new labor agreement. By striking Ford, the UAW is "playing with fire," according to Jim, who said the automaker might get tired of trying to appease union demands and just lock workers out. Ford on Friday temporarily laid off nearly 600 workers at its Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, which largely makes Bronco SUVs and Ranger pickup trucks. It's the same facility that has departments targeted in the walkout. These layoffs are not a lockout but the result of these employees not being able to do their jobs because of the ripple effect of other striking workers. In addition to Ford's Michigan Assembly Plant, the UAW has work stoppages at a General Motors (GM) site in Wentzville, Missouri and a Stellantis (STLA) center in Toledo, Ohio. In all, about 12,700 UAW workers walked out at these three locations last week after the union's old labor agreement with the automakers expired Thursday at 11:59 p.m. Chrysler-parent Stellantis over the weekend increased its offer to raise UAW members' pay by 20% over 4 years, with an immediate 10% hike to start. It's an offer on par with what we have already seen from Ford and GM, and it was also rejected. The UAW, which originally demanded 40%, has since lowered its ask to 36%, plus the return of pensions along with cost-of-living adjustments. The UAW may look to increase the pressure with more strikes, but the D3 are not powerless. If they feel the demands simply are not possible, and that meeting them would put their businesses at risk, we could see them threaten to move certain U.S. operations to Mexico. Such a drastic measure would be painful for both sides, and it could take three years to get additional plants in Mexico up and running. However, if they have to, the D3 can likely outlast the UAW, which has a limited strike fund to pay its workers who are off the job. By walking out of just three plants, the union will be able to stretch its war chest. Ford CEO Jim Farley told CNBC last week that UAW demands would bankrupt the company. The auto strike comes at a time when the legacy players in the industry, such as Ford, GM and Stellantis, are trying to ramp up their production of electric vehicles, which are caught up in a price war. Goldman Sachs on Monday cut its estimated prospects for EV leader Tesla (TSLA), mostly on forecasts for lower average selling prices (ASPs). We're highlighting this research note because Tesla is pretty much the price maker when it comes to the electric vehicle market. As a result, any reduction in its ASPs is going to pressure the price of EVs sold by others, including the D3, which are now looking at a potential topline headwind as they work to grow their EV market share. Sales pressure makes it even harder for the D3 to meet the demands of the UAW, which has been largely targeting the profitable internal combustion engine (ICE) businesses at the D3. That dynamic, however, could be even more incentive for the D3 to stick to their guns and consider alternative locations for production. Ford has made its electric vehicle operations central to the company's future. However, its Model e division is still losing tons of money. In addition to top-line pressure on its EV unit and companywide cost pressure from the UAW strike, Ford needs to work its way through this transition from high-profit ICE vehicles to the currently money-losing EVs. GM and Stellanis are facing the same type of challenges. Washington also needs to tread carefully. President Joe Biden did come out on Friday in support of the UAW, saying the automakers need to share record profits with the workers who made that possible. But, we don't know whether Biden is going to come down too hard on the D3. Yes, he must side with the union after all, he has repeatedly touted himself as the "most pro-union president ever." No doubt, he wants to bolster that image after signing a bill in December 2022 to block a national U.S. railroad strike for fear of what that would mean for the U.S. economy. Now that we're heading into an election, keeping the economy afloat and out of recession is more important than ever, especially for White House incumbents. Biden can't support an auto deal that would bankrupt the D3, nor can he support a labor agreement that would see the American auto jobs move to Mexico. The president is in a tough spot as are both the UAW and the automakers. And, as we wrote Friday , the strike is being watched by workers across many manufacturing industries, hoping the UAW demands don't hasten the continued drive to automate more and more factory functions, especially now that companies are starting to understand how artificial intelligence can run it all. (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long F See here for a full list of the stocks.) As a subscriber to the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer, you will receive a trade alert before Jim makes a trade. Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio. If Jim has talked about a stock on CNBC TV, he waits 72 hours after issuing the trade alert before executing the trade. THE ABOVE INVESTING CLUB INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY , TOGETHER WITH OUR DISCLAIMER . NO FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION OR DUTY EXISTS, OR IS CREATED, BY VIRTUE OF YOUR RECEIPT OF ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE INVESTING CLUB. NO SPECIFIC OUTCOME OR PROFIT IS GUARANTEED. UAW President Shawn Fain marches with UAW members through downtown Detroit after a rally in support of United Auto Workers members as they strike the Big Three auto makers on September 15, 2023 in Detroit, Michigan. Bill Pugliano | Getty Images Utilities have limped through much of 2023, but a few catalysts could lift a handful of stocks into the end of the year, according to Morgan Stanley. Utilities are a beloved play by income investors, given their dividend payments, their relative safety and their status as a bond substitute. However, this year has been a miserable one: The utility index within the S & P 500 is down 8.5% in 2023, making it the laggard in the broad index, which has risen 16.2%. The wildfires in Maui have drawn attention to how severe weather can pose a risk to utilities. Hawaiian Electric , embroiled in controversy over its potential liability in the wildfires, has plunged about 70% in 2023. Nevertheless, there could be room for some year-end upside, Morgan Stanley analyst David Arcaro said in a report last week. Already, utility stocks as a group are ahead 3.3% in September, while the S & P 500 has lost 1%. "As we head into the final stretch to the end of the year, we think investors will be particularly careful in picking their spots, watching for downside tail risk and focusing on clear and meaningful catalysts to drive performance," Arcaro wrote. Regulatory approvals, for instance, around major projects or rate increases could propel shares higher. PPL is awaiting a regulatory decision in Kentucky on a proposal to replace 1,500 megawatts of coal-fired power generation and add solar, battery storage and two natural gas plants. That decision is expected to roll out by Nov. 6. "With low regulatory risk and a strong balance sheet, we think the stock can re-rate to a premium after the Kentucky decision clears," wrote Arcaro. PPL shares are off more than 12% in 2023, and the company pays a 3.7% dividend yield. The analyst is also watching DTE and Exelon , as both companies have key developments coming up for rate cases this fall that is, the process utilities go through to determine the monthly bills they charge customers. The outlook is especially rosy for Exelon, Arcaro noted. "We expect a constructive outcome in the case supporting the upper half of earnings guidance," the Morgan Stanley analyst said. "The stock trades at a 3% premium and we think it can re-rate to a premium stock (we value at 10% premium) over time with a constructive outcome in this case and continued earnings execution." Dettroit-based DTE is down nearly 9% in 2023 and pays a 3.6% dividend. Exelon is off 4% this year, but pays a dividend of 3.5%. Morgan Stanley has an overweight recommendation on all three utilities. - CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed to this report. Apple CEO Tim Cook listens as President Joe Biden speaks during a roundtable with American and Indian business leaders in the East Room of the White House in Washington, D.C., June 23, 2023. Apple CEO Tim Cook said the company continues to weigh whether it should keep advertising on the platform X, after its owner Elon Musk has been accused of antisemitism. "It's something we constantly ask ourselves," Cook said in an interview with CBS' "Sunday Morning" that aired Sunday. Cook added he views X, formerly known as Twitter, as an "important property" for discourse but that there's aspects that he doesn't agree with, such as promotion of antisemitism on the platform. "Just point blank, there is no place for it," he said. Cook's comments come as Musk is slated to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday amid escalating concerns about antisemitism on X. Musk said in a post that the talks will focus on artificial intelligence. Nonprofit groups and third-party researchers allege that hate speech and offensive content have become more widespread on the platform since Musk took over in October. Musk and X have disputed the allegations. Earlier this month, Musk threatened to sue the Anti-Defamation League after the civil rights group reported that antisemitic posts on X have increased sharply under Musk's ownership of the company. Musk blamed the ADL for lost advertising revenue, saying sales for the business were down 60%. Musk recently sued another nonprofit, the Center for Countering Digital Hate, after it published a report in June that claimed X failed to take action against several subscribers of Twitter Blue, now referred to as X Premium, when they posted inflammatory content. CNBC's Jonathan Vanian contributed to this report. An editorial photograph of the USA and China flags. China's foreign minister Wang Yi and U.S. national security advisor Jake Sullivan met in Malta over the weekend. The bilateral talks come ahead of a possible meeting between China's President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders meeting in November. Wang and Sullivan last met in Vienna. Their Malta meeting convened after several high level officials visited Beijing in recent months and just before Wang's meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov later this week. China's Foreign Ministry said Vice President Han Zheng will represent the country at the United Nations General Assembly this week in New York, suggesting Wang and Xi will not attend. In readouts issued by the White House and China's Foreign Ministry, the two-day talks in Malta were characterized as "candid, substantive and constructive." The White House said the meeting was part of ongoing efforts to maintain open lines of communication and responsibly manage the relationship, while the Chinese said the meeting was focused on stabilizing and improving Sino-U.S. relations. Wang and Sullivan discussed a number of issues, including: global and regional security, Russia's war against Ukraine, the Korean peninsula and stability across the Taiwan Strait. The apparent disappearances of China's former foreign minister Qin Gang and defense minister Li Shangfu were not on Wang and Sullivan's official agenda in Malta. Wang had re-assumed his former job as foreign minister after Xi removed his successor Qin from the position. Bank of America named European chip stocks ASM International and STMicro as its "top picks" going into the end of the year. The Wall Street bank said it continues to favor ASMI with a 521 euro ($559) price target, which represents 25% upside potential from the current share price. Shares of the Dutch manufacturer of semiconductor equipment are also traded in the United States. The analysts believe ASMI's upcoming capital markets day on Sept. 26 "should act as a positive catalyst for the stock." They think the company's strong positioning in epitaxy, a manufacturing process used to make components required for chipmaking, means it should command a premium valuation. The investment bank also named STMicro , a chipmaker with a focus on the automotive sector, as its "top autos semis pick." Bank of America's $72 price target for STM points to a 62% upside potential over the next 12 months. Shares of the company are also traded on the Paris stock exchange for European investors. STM ASMXF YTD line Bank of America analysts cited "resilient pricing and secular growth drivers in silicon carbide (SiC)" as reasons the stock should benefit into year-end. Silicon carbide is used in power components for electric vehicles. "We keep on seeing potential for STM to re-rate towards the end of the year given recent comments of CEO at a conference," said Bank of America equity analysts led by Didier Scemama in a note to clients on Sept. 11. STM CEO Jean-Marc Chery said the company is expected to benefit from the ongoing strength in automotive and industrial demand, tight supply conditions in SiC where STM is a leader, and pricing power with carmakers. Bank of America cautioned that mixed signals on smartphone demand are an issue for the semiconductor sector more broadly. However, they view artificial intelligence-driven growth for chip demand as positive for ASMI and STM, given their heavy exposure to the segment. In this article GM F STLA Follow your favorite stocks CREATE FREE ACCOUNT Breaking with the long-standing tradition of the "handshake ceremony" with the auto executives of the Big Three auto makers to open contract talks, United Auto Workers president Shawn Fain instead speaks with and does "members' handshakes" with Stellantis workers at the Stellantis Sterling Heights Assembly Plant on July 12, 2023 in Sterling Heights, Michigan. The UAW opens auto contract negotiations with Stellantis today, Ford on July 14, and General Motors on July 18. (Photo by Bill Pugliano/Getty Images) Bill Pugliano | Getty Images News | Getty Images United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain on Monday said the White House will have no role in brokering an agreement to end the autoworkers' strike as the walkout enters its fourth day with no resolution in sight. "No, not at all," Fain said when asked on MSNBC's "Morning Joe" whether the White House could help the union and General Motors , Ford and Stellantis reach a deal. "This battle is not about the president," Fain said. "It's not about the former president or any other person prior to that. This battle is about the workers standing up for economic and social justice and getting their fair share because they're fed up with going backwards." Fain's comments come after President Joe Biden said on Friday that he would send acting Labor Secretary Julie Su and White House senior advisor Gene Sperling to Detroit to help mediate the negotiations. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told CNBC in an interview Monday that the White House wants a "win-win" deal. "The two sides need to narrow their disagreements and to work for a contract that's good for the workers and for the industry as well," Yellen said. watch now The strike has entered its fourth day with no resolution in sight. Nearly 13,000 UAW members are on strike at three key plants in Michigan, Missouri and Ohio. Biden, who's up for reelection next year, often touts his blue-collar roots and has sought to closely associate himself with the labor movement, but the strikes will test those credentials if the dispute is left unresolved and triggers broader economic disruption. Former President Donald Trump is also courting support from UAW members, while attacking the union's leaders, as he pursues another term in the White House. Biden largely sided with the striking workers in his brief address Friday, calling on the automakers to share the record profits they have made in recent years. "Those record profits have not been shared fairly, in my view, with the workers," the president said. The autoworkers are demanding a 40% hourly wage increase, a 32-hour workweek, elimination of compensation tiers, a return to traditional pensions, the restoration of cost-of-living adjustments as well as better vacation and family leave benefits among other items. Where do things stand? Fain on Monday said the union and the automakers remain "far apart" on several issues. He specifically called out compensation tiers, in which workers are paid differently for the same job. "We have been very clear from the onset that we want to end tiers," Fain told MSNBC. "You have workers on the line doing the same job for severely different rates of pay and there's no excuse for that." The UAW president said the union's members are prepared to escalate: "If the companies don't respond to the members' demands then we have to do what we have to do." The automakers have said the union's demands would cripple the companies and put them at a disadvantage compared non-unionized car manufacturers. Ford CEO Jim Farley said in an interview with CNBC on Thursday that the automaker would have gone bankrupt under the UAW's current demands. watch now Ukraine intends to sue Poland, Hungary and Slovakia over their restrictions on Ukrainian agricultural imports, officials said. Ukrainian Trade Representative Taras Kachka told Politico in an interview it was "important to prove that these actions are legally wrong," and that an appeal would be made through the World Trade Organization. A senior Ukrainian official said an appeal could be sent "in the near future," Reuters reported Monday. Poland, Hungary and Slovakia on Friday announced import curbs after European Commission-led restrictions on Ukrainian imports into the countries as well as Romania and Bulgaria expired. All five are EU members which are close to or border Ukraine. The EU deal allowed products to transit via the countries but required them to be sold elsewhere. The three new national restrictions cover domestic imports and will still allow transit, Reuters reported. Land exports from Ukraine have increased since the suspension of the Black Sea grain initiative by Russia in July, creating tensions with local farmers as goods prices fell. Ukraine has agreed to introduce measures intended to prevent a "surge" in EU imports, however the details have not been specified. Hungarian President Viktor Orban on Saturday wrote on social media website X that Ukrainian agricultural products destined for Africa were "flooding Central European markets." A Polish government spokesperson said it was introducing the ban in the "interest of Polish farmers and consumers;" while Slovakia's Prime Minister Ludovit Odor said it would "prevent excessive pressure on the Slovak market in order to remain fair to our farmers as well." Jenni Reid An F-35 fighter jet flies over the sky during the Fleet Week in San Francisco, California, United States on October 7, 2022. A U.S. fighter jet's stealth abilities appear to be working too well, with authorities forced to ask the public for help finding an F-35 that went missing somewhere over South Carolina when the pilot ejected due to a "mishap." Joint Base Charleston, an air base in North Charleston, said it was working with Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort to "locate an F-35 that was involved in a mishap" on Sunday afternoon. The pilot was able to safely eject from the aircraft, an F-35B Lightning II jet, and was taken to a local medical center in stable condition, the air base said in a Facebook post at around 5:35 p.m. ET. The jet was left in autopilot mode when the pilot ejected from the aircraft, so there's a possibility it could still be airborne, Jeremy Huggins, a spokesman at Joint Base Charleston, told NBC News over the phone. However, he said searchers were focusing their attention north of the air base around Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion based on the jet's last-known position and coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration. Asked whether that meant that officials believed the jet could have crashed, Huggins said he was unable to elaborate, but that more information would be forthcoming. The FAA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The circumstances that prompted the pilot to eject from the aircraft were not immediately clear. The incident attracted some criticism, with Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) asking in a social media post: "How in the hell do you lose an F-35?" "How is there not a tracking device and we're asking the public to what, find a jet and turn it in?" Mace wrote. The jet's transponder, which usually helps locate the aircraft, was not working "for some reason that we haven't yet determined," The Washington Post reported, citing Huggins. Huggins said he was unable to confirm that detail as of early Monday morning. Aerospace giant Lockheed Martin describes the F-35 series on its website as the "Most Advanced Fighter Jet in the World," as well as the "most lethal, stealthy and survivable aircraft." The F-35 family includes three single-seat variants, including the F-35A conventional takeoff and landing jet, the F-35B short takeoff/vertical landing variant and the F-35C carrier. When I opened a bank account in college, I did no research. More than a decade later, I found that I was losing hundreds of dollars to hidden fees, prompting me to finally do some Googling and switch to a bank that better fit my needs. I love my new bank. It offers high-yield savings accounts, has no overdraft or maintenance fees and more accessible ATMs. It also came with a perk I wasn't expecting: early direct deposit. Now, my paychecks hit my account every other Wednesday instead of Friday. It turns out many financial institutions, such as Capital One, Ally and Wells Fargo, provide early direct deposit. The service is usually automatic, meaning you don't have to opt into it. The first time I saw my full paycheck in my account on a Wednesday, I assumed it was a mistake a very exciting mistake. And because my previous bank paid me on Friday, I was, in fact, getting paid two days earlier than I would have if I hadn't switched banks. As time went on, I expected Wednesday afternoons to stop feeling like a gift. But they didn't. Even though I'm still only getting paid once every two weeks, I feel less financially strained. Talking to experts, I found there are a few reasons I feel like I have more money, even though I don't. 'The average number you see in your bank account might be different' Filipe Correia, an assistant professor at the University of Georgia department of finance, studies the effects of paycheck frequency on spending and saving habits. Pulling from his own research, he found that the day of the week on which someone is paid does alter their actions. When people are paid toward the end of the week, they tend to spend more money. Regardless of how much a person earns, "the percentage of income consumed increases throughout the week," he says. And higher consumption toward the end of the week is correlated with lower savings and more borrowing. So, why does getting paid on Friday prompt higher spending? Nashira Lynton, a financial therapist, says getting and then immediately spending money can sometimes lead to unnecessary shopping. "Hypothetically [getting paid on Friday] can lead to the thought: 'I get paid and then my money disappears quickly,'" she says. "This can lead to feelings like 'I don't have enough to last me until the next check' or anxious feelings around running out of money, which, in turn, could make you spend even more just to feel better." As someone who partakes in regular retail therapy, this is quite possible. I could also be experiencing something called the "endowment effect," Hal Hershfield, a professor at the University of California, Los Angeles Anderson School of Management, told me. The endowment effect refers to an emotional bias where once you own something, you value it more than if you didn't. Perhaps, Hershfield says, when I was paid Fridays, the money drained from my account so quickly that I didn't feel I had any ownership of it. "When you get paid on Wednesday, by the time the weekend rolls around, it now feels more like money that you own and so you become more reluctant to spend it," he says. "Once we own something, the pain of getting rid of it feels quite salient." Don't miss: This is the highest-earning personality type with a $90,000 average salary Because I spend less during the weekdays, I might literally be seeing a higher number in my bank account for more days, Correia says. This could make me feel like I'm earning more. Let's say a paycheck for $1,000 is deposited into my account on a Wednesday, Correia says. If I spend more on weekends than I do on weekdays, the number in my bank account is likely closer to $1,000 until Friday. If I got paid Friday, I'd never really see the full amount or close to the full amount in my bank account. "The average number you see in your bank account might be different, but you don't have more money," he says. Regardless of why, I know getting paid Wednesdays makes me feel less like I'm living paycheck to paycheck. I hope the illusion lasts forever. DON'T MISS: Want to be smarter and more successful with your money, work & life? Sign up for our new newsletter! Want to earn more and land your dream job? Join the free CNBC Make It: Your Money virtual event on Oct. 17 at 1 p.m. ET to learn how to level up your interview and negotiating skills, build your ideal career, boost your income and grow your wealth. Register for free today. Westend61 | Getty Images New York just adopted a pay transparency rule New York on Sunday became the latest state to adopt a pay transparency law. Employers in the state with at least four employees must make a "good faith" salary disclosure in job postings. It joins California, Colorado and Washington state, as well as New York City. The pay transparency movement is relatively new. Colorado was the first state to pass such a law, in 2019, and it took effect on Jan. 1, 2021. watch now Other local governments like the city of Ithaca, along with Albany and Westchester counties in New York, and Jersey City in New Jersey have enacted pay transparency laws, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Other states have taken "a slightly more flexible approach," NCSL said. For instance, states and municipalities such as Cincinnati and Toledo in Ohio; Maryland; Connecticut; Rhode Island; and Nevada have passed laws that allow employers to disclose salary ranges to job applicants upon request, according to the National Women's Law Center. A "profusion" of websites like Glassdoor.com, Payscale.com, and Salary.com have also provided "rather open access to employer pay information," Obloj and Zenger said. There are pros and cons Westend61 | Westend61 | Getty Images Greater access to salary information in job postings poses clear benefits for both workers and businesses, experts said. For instance, transparency can help close persistent pay gaps, especially for women and people of color, said Mandi Woodruff-Santos, a career and money coach. "It levels the playing field," she said. "At least they have a starting-off point." Salary information also reduces frictions in applying and hiring, since workers can more easily filter and determine the jobs for which they'd prefer to apply, Stahle at Indeed said. It also might help young workers and recent graduates when doing career planning, he said. It levels the playing field. At least they have a starting-off point. Mandi Woodruff-Santos career and money coach Further, 75% of job seekers are more likely to apply for a job if the salary range is listed in the posting, according to a 2022 Indeed survey. Fifty-six percent are more likely to apply for a company even if they don't recognize the company name if the salary range is listed, Indeed found. However, there may be drawbacks. For one, pay transparency may lower overall wages of the broader population of employees, even while raising them for the "inequitably underpaid," Obloj and Zenger said. That's because, data suggests, employers might push back against salary negotiations and the practice may therefore "lower employees' relative bargaining power," they said. The practice might also lower worker productivity and change workers' on-the-job priorities, the duo wrote. 'There's still plenty to negotiate' beyond salary Of course, applicants aren't necessarily beholden to the salary or the pay range posted on a job ad, Woodruff-Santos said. They can ask for more. "I wouldn't take it as the final, final word until you've asked and they've told you," she said. Even if there's not wiggle room on salary, "there's still plenty to negotiate," Woodruff-Santos added. The "big whale" is work-from-home flexibility, which isn't a direct form of financial compensation but offers value to many workers, she said. Having started bilateral talks to mutually resolve the pending sugar dispute at the WTO (World Trade Organisation), India and Brazil may also look at deepening existing cooperation. A government official told CNBC-TV18 that Brazil may share ethanol production technology with India as part of the solution, while terming the development as positive after several rounds of discussion were undertaken to resolve the dispute. India is yet to offer something from its side as part of the negotiations. In 2019, Australia, Brazil and Guatemala had filed a case against India at the WTO alleging that the export subsidies being offered on sugar were violative of WTO norms. While WTO upheld the allegations imposed against India in December 2021, India's appeal before WTO's appellate body is yet to be decided as the body isn't functional. At the 10th WTO ministerial in Nairobi, Kenya in 2015, export subsidies on agricultural products by developed countries were banned while developing countries were asked to phase them out by 2018. India's former Ambassador to the WTO, Jayant Dasgupta has welcomed the move by both the countries to resolve the dispute as well as the ethanol production technology from Brazil as India aims to raise ethanol blending in fuel to reduce the dependence on fossil fuel and carbon emissions. Describing the hybrid car engines technology as something that Brazil keeps close to its chest, he said that India may have to provide something else too as part of the dispute resolution apart from rolling back subsidies on sugar. Noting that India can look at importing soybean which Brazil is a huge exporter of, he clarified that if India gives any concessions to Brazil it will have to give to others too as per the MFN (Most Favoured Nation) principle. While Brazil is the largest producer & exporter of sugar in the world, India ranks second in sugar production globally. Being extensively used for blending with fuel, ethanol is being promoted by India to cut fuel imports and carbon emissions with a target of 20 percent ethanol-blended petrol by 2025. Ethanol can be produced from sugarcane, broken rice, bagasse and agricultural waste. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) Senator Risa Hontiveros believes Chinas suspected harvesting and destruction of coral reefs in the Iroquois Reef and Escoda Shoal may be ripe for a Senate resolution and investigation. The Philippine Coast Guard and the military named China as likely behind the rampant environmental damage in the West Philippine Seas marine biomes after its militia vessels were seen over the affected waters. READ: PCG to tap marine experts to inspect WPS reefs supposedly damaged by China Well posibleng ripe talaga iyan for a Senate resolution and investigation, kasi it would not be the first time na nag environmental degradation ang Tsina sa ating dagat, Hontiveros said in a Monday interview. [Translation: Its possibly ripe for a Senate resolution and investigation as it's not the first time that China has committed environmental degradation in our seas.] They also dredged our sea floor to invent their artificial islands, militarize them, within the West Philippine Sea and our exclusive economic zone, para iclaim na teritoryo nila [to claim it as their territory], she added. In its 2016 ruling, the international tribunal created under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) found that China violated the Philippines sovereign rights by illegally constructing artificial islands within its exclusive economic zone. Chinese state-run media Xinhua reported in 2019 that Beijing built ecological protection facilities and marine observation centers throughout the Spratly islands. Maritime law expert Jay Batongbacal said this was an attempt to mask its creation of military bases in the area. READ: China to restore Spratlys' reefs destroyed due to island-building Sen. Francis Tolentino theorized that China's alleged harvesting operations could be a prelude to even more land reclamation projects in the West Philippine Sea, adding that this was a violation of UNCLOS. Iyong pagpatay kasi ng corals ay prelude sa isang bagay pag pinatay mo iyon, pwede ka nang mag-reclaim, he said. Kung magfa-file po tayo ng claim, damages, dapat sa isang tribunal na recognized ng UNCLOS. [Translation: The killing of corals is a prelude to one thing if it is dead, one can now reclaimIf we will file damage claims, it should be with a tribunal recognized by UNCLOS.] Similarly outraged by the harvesting reports, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said his chamber was working with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to establish marine ranger stations in key coastal areas around the country. He added that he spoke with Sen. Sonny Angara, chairperson of the Senate finance committee, to earmark 600 million for the initiative. Zubiri also vowed more funding for the PCG and the Navy to better equip the agencies amid rising tensions with Beijing. Last month, the Senate adopted a resolution condemning Chinas actions in the West Philippine Sea and urging the Department of Foreign Affairs to raise this before the United Nations General Assembly. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) called for an end to all ecologically harmful activities in the countrys marine environment after reports surfaced of rampant damage to the coral reefs in Rozul Reef and Escoda Shoal, which the military and the coast guard suspect is Chinas doing. We are seriously concerned about reports of the destruction of corals in Rozul Reef, a maritime feature located in the Philippines exclusive economic zone, the DFA said Monday. The Philippines has consistently raised the alarm over ecologically harmful activities, conducted by foreign vessels, in our maritime zones, an issue extensively discussed in the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea. From Aug. 9 to Sept. 11, Chinese Maritime Militia vessels were spotted over Rozul Reef, also known as Iroquois Reef, and in Escoda Shoal, or the Sabina Shoal, both of which have seen extensive coral reef damage, the Philippine Coast Guard said. The agency will bring in experts from the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute on its next underwater survey to inspect the damaged marine habitats. READ: PCG to tap marine experts to inspect WPS reefs supposedly damaged by China We, therefore, call on everyone concerned to act responsibly and cease all activities that can damage our precious marine environment. The well-being of millions of people who depend on the South China Sea for their livelihood is at stake, the DFA ended. Related: Chinas suspected damaging of WPS reefs ripe for Senate probe Hontiveros With reports from CNN Philippines' correspondent Tristan Nodalo. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Monday filed a complaint against six individuals allegedly linked to onion smuggling in the country. In a press briefing on Monday, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said government officials are among the respondents facing profiteering and hoarding complaints. "Kasama and mga opisyal ng gobyerno dito sapagkat ang tingin namin sila ay lumalabas na merong sala sa pagkakataong ito," DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said. [Translation: Government officials are included because we think they appear to be at fault here.] DOJ Usec. Geronimo Sy explained that the complaint stemmed from the sale of around 8,000 bags of onions to the government-owned and controlled corporation Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) by a private cooperative in December 2022. The NBI reportedly found that each bag contained at least 25 kilograms and that the price per kilogram exceeded 500 when the farmgate prices of onions at the time were only below 20. "Ang bentahan sumobra ng 500. Ang sabi, walang stock pero nung kinontrata ng P500 plus per kilo, nagkaroon ng stock," Sy said. [Translation: The sale exceeded P500. It was said that there was no stock but when the deal was made for 500 plus per kilo, the stocks appeared.] Sy further said that the respondents are also facing complaints related to falsified documents submitted in the bidding process. According to the DOJ official, the respondents' strategy was to submit three proposals during the bidding, two of which were fictitious, allowing the preferred bidder to actually win. He added that 134 million from the Department of Agriculture (DA) is involved in the case. The DOJ officials did not name the respondents so as to not preempt the prosecutors' evaluation. More cases to come The Justice chief said the complaint filed by the NBI is only the first of many cases to be filed in relation to the hoarding and smuggling of onions that led to the spike in prices which soared up to P700 per kilogram in late 2022. "Ito'y isa pa lang sa mga kasong fina-file at dine-develop ng DOJ. There will be other cases that will be filed," Remulla said. "Marami pa kaming tinitingnan na violations na considered na economic crimes. Ito'y simula pa lang -- hanggang sa maging malinaw sa lahat na hindi pwede ang ginagawang price manipulations sa merkado." [Translation: This is just one of the cases being developed by the DOJ. There will be other cases that will be filed. We are still looking into many violations considered as economic crimes. This is just the beginning -- until it becomes clear to everyone that price manipulation is not allowed in the market.] In July, the DOJ chief said they were building an economic sabotage case against a network of industry players involved in the alleged onion cartel. Remulla noted that they were looking at six to seven personalities. This came shortly after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who is the head of the DA, directed the DOJ and the NBI to investigate the smuggling of onions and other agricultural products, saying the act was equivalent to economic sabotage. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) A maritime law expert urged Congress Sunday to expedite the passage of a bill on maritime zones amid Chinas continued aggression in the South China Sea. Jay Batongbacal, executive director of the UP Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea, said the bill declaring the countrys maritime zones would establish the legal bases for activities that could be conducted in these areas. The proposed Philippine Maritime Zones Act, or House Bill 7819, provides for a general declaration of the maritime zones under Philippine jurisdiction, which include internal waters, archipelagic waters, territorial sea, contiguous zone, exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and continental shelf. The bill was passed by the House of Representatives on third and final reading last May and is pending in the Senate. Batongbacal said the passage of the measure is also supported by the international community. Kapag na-enact ang Maritime Zone Law, wala nang duda kung nasaan ang mga lugar sa loob ng EEZ ng Pilipinas. Hindi magagamit ng ibang bansa tulad ng China ang argumento na hindi niyo naman sinabi nasaan ang boundary ng EEZ, Batongbacal said. [Translation: Once the Maritime Zone Law is enacted, there will be no doubt as to where the areas within the Philippine EEZ are. Other countries like China cannot use the argument that you did not say where the boundary of the EEZ is.] Batongbacal said the Philippine government should also consider constructing a permanent structure in Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea. A grounded vessel, BRP Sierra Madre, serves as the countrys outpost in the area. Walang hadlang, walang legal impediment para gawin nating permanent base ang Sierra Madre dahil tayo lang ang may karapatan doonOras na iniwan natin ang Sierra Madre, oras na lumisan tayo diyan, sigurado ko hindi na tayo makakabalik diyan, the expert said. [Translation: There is no obstacle, there is no legal impediment for us to make the Sierra Madre a permanent base because we are the only ones who have the right there... Once we leave the Sierra Madre, once we leave there, I'm sure we can't go back] Pag nangyari yun, mahaharang na nila tayo sa lahat ng mahahalagang parte ng West Philippine Sea. Hindi sila titigil sa Ayungin Shoal, he added. [Translation: When that happens, they will block us from all important parts of the West Philippine Sea. They will not stop at Ayungin Shoal.] The Philippines successfully conducted a new resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal early in September, but not without another attempt by China to block the trip. The AFPs recently conducted aerial patrols showed a concerning resurgence of Chinese fishing vessels swarming in the WPS. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) Fisheries in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) will collapse and will heavily impact the countrys food security if the damage to the Rozul Reef (also known as Iroquois Reef) worsens, a maritime law expert warned on Monday. Maritime Affairs expert Jay Batongbacal said the damage to the reef could be a huge blow on food security as the destroyed area contributes 27% to 30% of the countrys capture fisheries. The worst case scenario for us, as a country that depends on marine resources in the West Philippine Sea, is that this will lead to the collapse of fisheries in the area," he told CNN Philippines The Source. And then ecologically, the bigger threat there is that if this area collapses, the sustainability of other areas, such as the inter-island waters of the Philippines to which the WPS is ecologically and biologically connected, will also suffer, he added. Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson for WPS Commodore Jay Tarriela said "severe damage" was inflicted upon the marine environment and coral reef in the seabed of Rozul Reef and Escoda Shoal. According to Tarriela's statement, underwater surveys of the shoals revealed ecosystems that appeared "lifeless, with minimal to no signs of life." "Moreover, the surveys conducted in Escoda Shoal revealed visible discoloration of its seabed, strongly indicating that deliberate activities may have been undertaken to modify the natural topography of its underwater terrain," Tarriela added. Batongbacal warned that if the resources in the WPS are depleted, Chinese fleets will start looking in the Philippine inter-island waters next. So we could see them intruding even more frequently into the Sulu Sea and into the waters of Visayas etc., looking for these resources. Over the longer term, that is the bigger environmental and ecological threat to us, he added. Over the weekend, the Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Command (Wescom) said the Navy personnel spotted the suspected damage during an initial assessment after they drove away Chinese vessels from the reef in July. The AFP Wescom also reported the concerning resurgence of Chinese fishing vessels swarming in parts of WPS, including Rozul Reef. Batongbacal urged the government to inspect the area and evaluate the extent to which the Chinese have caused damage to the habitat. This requires groundrooting. Meaning, somebody has to actually go there and conduct the survey by hand. They will dive and measure, he added. He also said the government should expect the same level of damage to other reefs where Chinese vessels were seen anchoring, and should send authorities to document the activities. The documentation could be used to tie the activities and damages together and be filed as evidence against China if the case reaches litigation on an international level, the maritime law expert noted. Batongbacal also urged Congress to expedite the passage of a bill declaring the countrys maritime zones, saying this will establish the legal bases for activities that could be conducted in these areas. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) -- Former Technology and Livelihood Resource Center (TLRC) officials were found guilty of graft and malversation over the diversion of P9.6 million in the late Negros Oriental representative Herminio Teves Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) through a ghost project in 2007, the Sandiganbayan handed its decision on Friday. The court sentenced former TLRC deputy director general Dennis Cunanan, chief accountant Marivic Jover, and liason officer Belina Conception to at least 20 years imprisonment. Hiram Pulido, who was Teves former chief of staff, and Samuel Bombeo, a private individual, were found guilty of the same offense as well. They are ordered to solidarily pay a fine of P9,600,000 equal to the amount malversed and to indemnify the Government of the Republic of the Philippines the amount of P9,600,000 with legal interest of 6% per annum until full payment, the court said. The anti-graft court also said they shall suffer the penalty of perpetual disqualification from holding public office. On the other hand, former TLRC department head Francisco Figura was acquitted due to the prosecutions failure to prove his guilt beyond reasonable doubt. The case against Teves was dismissed because of his death. Teves and his alleged cohorts were charged with graft and malversation for endorsing the release of pork funds to Bombeos Molugan Foundation Inc. (MFI) even though it was not one of the identified implementers of PDAF projects in the 2007 General Appropriations Act. Were it not for their consent and participation, the funds would not have been disbursed and released to MFI, through Bombeo, the court said. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) House Speaker Martin Romualdez said they could recommend the suspension of excise tax on petroleum products to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other economic managers if prices continue to climb. Lawmakers met with representatives of oil companies on Monday to discuss the proposal. "We are very much open to making suggestions as clear and direct as even making recommendations to the Office of the President and to the economic managers to consider the suspension of excise taxes on oil on the basis that if it reaches a certain price," said Romualdez. "So kung pumalo na ng $80 baka pwedeng i-consider [If it hits $80 a barrel perhaps we can consider] to have a temporary suspension of excise taxes," he added Lawmakers are also thinking of buying oil early in the coming months when prices are expected to rise even more. "We can already perhaps even explore buying early or in advance and not wait until December. Baka [Maybe] we can get better prices by securing our oil requirements by making advance purchases or orders," Romualdez said. However, Department of Energy Undersecretary Sharon Garin said this needs further study. Aside from oil industry players, officials from the Energy and Finance departments also attended the meeting. The government could lose 4.9 billion once the collection of excise tax on petroleum products is suspended. However, if this is done, prices could drop to as much as P10 per liter. Another 4 could be shaved off if the requirement to mix ethanol with oil products is suspended as well. However, according to Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo, suspending taxes should be studied carefully as it could affect government's earnings. "Kapag nag-suspend tayo ng taxes, ibig sabihin niyan there are foregone revenues. And when you forego revenues, ibig sabihin mawawalan tayo ng suporta para sa spending," she said. [Translation: If we suspend taxes, that would mean foregone revenues. And when you forego revenues, this means there would be less support for spending.] She said there are available funds that can be used to give assistance to sectors affected by the price increases. "Marami pa namang existing unutilized funds to support our consumers. Marami pa tayong natitirang pondo for fuel subsidies. Naka-lodge ito sa DOTr. Meron din tayong pondo sa DA. At the same time, meron pa tayong ibang mga subsidies na natitira sa DSWD," the lawmaker added. [Translation: There are many other existing unutilized funds to support our consumers. We have other remaining funds for fuel subsidies. This is with the DOTr. There are funds with the DA. At the same time, there are other subsidies with the DSWD.] The House leadership and oil industry players will meet again next week. Lawmakers now want to know what oil companies can do to lessen the impact of continued oil price increases on the public. Congress' recommendations on the suspension of excise taxes could be ironed out before session adjourns by the end of September. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) The Commission on Elections, Department of Education, and Public Attorney's Office on Monday signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) that would provide legal assistance to teachers who will serve during the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections in October. "Kailangan they (teachers) are properly represented by counsel. Napaka-importante yun. Ang dami nang ginagawa ng mga guro...kung may tutulong sa kanila katulad ng Public Attorney's Office, na talagang libreng naglilingkod, lalo na't may MOA mas magiging madali na idefend yung kanilang sarili," Comelec chairman George Garcia said in a briefing. [Translation: They should be properly represented by counsel. That is very important. Teachers do so many things...if they receive help from the Public Attorney's Office, who really provides free help, especially now that there is a MOA, they will be able to defend themselves easily.] Over 8,000 teachers will serve in electoral boards in the upcoming polls. Garcia said there have been times when teachers received threats during election duty. "Teachers are so vulnerable that's why the legal assistance is the best defense against these kinds of attacks against them," he said. DepEd Undersecretary Michael Poa said discussions on teachers' welfare should also include the issue of legal aid. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) will bring in experts from the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (UP-MSI) on its next underwater survey to inspect the damaged coral reefs in Rozul Reef and Escoda Shoal, which the agency suspects China is responsible for. PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Jay Tarriela told reporters on Monday that from Aug. 9 to Sept. 11, the agency monitored 33 Chinese Maritime Militia vessels (CMMVs) in Rozul Reef, also known as Iroquois Reef, and another 15 in Escoda Shoal, or the Sabina Shoal. These are the same areas in the West Philippine Sea where the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the National Security Council observed damaged, possibly harvested corals, as well as a near total absence of marine life forms. The PCG assessment confirmed the two agencies findings. READ: PH military suspects China of harvesting corals in Rozul Reef Aside from CMMVs, no other foreign vessels were seen in these areas over the given time period, the PCG said. Thats the reason why we intend to carry out another maritime patrol and underwater survey sa mga susunod na araw [in the following days], Tarriela said. But this time we will be coordinating with UP-MSI to bring onboard yung kanilang mga [their] marine scientist[s] to understand this particular incident wherein namatay ang ating mga corals and then may mga dinump na corals na seemingly nilinis, crinush, and then dinump [our corals died, and then corals that were seemingly cleaned and crushed were dumped in these areas]. UP Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea executive director Jay Batongbacal told CNN Philippines The Source on Monday that he was sure Beijing was behind the damaged reefs. He said that in the Hainan province of China, there is a very large industry which profits greatly from the harvesting of raw materials from corals reefs, which are used to create decorations, jewelry, and trinkets. Furthermore, he said continued damage to these marine biomes could lead to a collapse of fisheries in the West Philippine Sea, resulting in a major blow to food security as the destroyed area contributes 27% to 30% of the countrys capture fisheries. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) Justice Secretary Boying Remulla has ordered the transfer to his office of the illegal possession of firearms and drug complaint filed by the Philippine National Police (PNP) against Fil-Indian businessman Amith Chandiramani for "the conduct of cause build-up and preliminary investigation." The complaint was originally pending before the Office of the City Prosecutor of Dasmarinas in Cavite but the department order dated September 11 designated Assistant State Prosecutor (ASP) Michael John Humarang to handle the case and if warranted by evidence, file charges before the court against Chandiramani. "Likewise, ASP Humarang shall handle all cases between/among the same parties which are connected to, necessarily included, or as a consequence of these cases, including counter charges, which might rise in the future," the order stated. Remulla has yet to specify the reason for the transfer but in his directive, he said it was "in the interest of service and pursuant to the provisions of existing laws." In June, Chandiramani was arrested in his home in Dasmarinas, Cavite by the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, Special Action Force, and Cavite Provincial Police Office. Authorities recovered several firearms and ammunition. Chandiramani's lawyer Edmundo Magpantay said the complaint for illegal possession of firearms with respect to the rifle and illegal possession of explosives with regard to the fragmentation grenade for alleged violation of the rules on search and seizure was already dismissed by the Dasmarinas prosecutor's office. However, the PNP filed a motion for reconsideration (MR). "This is particularly true since the MR is still part of the preliminary investigation. However, the Office of the City Prosecutor is yet to comply with the said order despite that it already received the DO," Magpantay noted. Chandiramani filed a separate complaint against his brother, billionaire Rajiv, for falsification of documents, which is under preliminary investigation in the Department of Justice. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 19) Sen. Risa Hontiveros on Monday exposed a "cult" nestling in the mountains of Socorro, Surigao del Norte, where rape, sexual violence, child abuse, and forced marriage allegedly take place. "What we have learned is dire and despicable a community of children in Socorro, Surigao del Norte is crying for help," Hontiveros said in a privilege speech. "Ang pinag-uusapan nating mga bata ay higit sa isang libong kabataan na nasa kamay ng isang mapanlinlang, malupit, at mapang-abusong kulto," she added. [Translation: We are talking about over a thousand young people in the hands of a deceitful, cruel, and abusive cult.] Hontiveros, who chairs the Senate Committee on Women and Children, said the alleged cult behind the name Socorro Bayanihan Services, Inc." started in 2017 after then 17-year-old Jey Rence Quilario was groomed to be the next "Messiah." Declared as the reincarnation of the Santo Nino, Quilario was later named "Senior Agila" by former Socorro Mayor Mamerto Galanida, who served for three terms. The senator said that in 2019, Quilario saw the massive earthquake that hit the province as an opportunity to lure followers to go to the mountains to be "saved." "There was a mass exodus to the mountain by the thousands of members of the organization, now having all the indicators of a religious cult," she added. The lawmaker said this resulted in a mass resignation of Department of Education teachers and government employees including more than one hundred elementary and secondary teachers from Socorro East and West Districts. Enrollments at Socorro East and West Districts also logged an alarming drop of 847 learners, she said. "The mountain allowed the cult to continue its activities without scrutiny," Hontiveros said. "And this is where the harrowing tales of child abuse come in." Citing direct and first-hand testimonies, a statement from the senators office on Tuesday said Quilario would allegedly "engage in acts of sexual abuse and violence against minors, including ordering children to sleep with him, facilitating marriages of children as young as 12 years old with adults, and locking adolescents in rooms in order for them to engage in sexual activities, among others. Cult funding According to Hontiveros, funding of the cult largely comes from the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program (AICS) of its members. She also alleged that cult leaders are involved in the illegal drug trade. As of July this year, eight children have escaped the group, but cult leaders are using their influence to bring back the children to the mountains, Hontiveros said. These children are in grave and present danger. Makapangyarihan at may impluwensya ang kulto. Ginagawa nila ngayon ang lahat para makuha mula sa LGU (local government unit) at DSWD (Department of Social Welfare and Development) ang mga bata [The cult is powerful and influential. Theyre now doing everything to get the children from the LGU and the DSWD) , the senator added. Hontiveros has filed a resolution seeking a Senate probe into the cult's alleged criminal acts. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 18) The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Monday received motorcycle units donated by Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos to be used in the agency's Motorcycle Riding Academy. "When I told him that the MMDA will be having a Motorcycle Riding Academy, Secretary Abalos immediately responded by donating ten brand new motorcycle units," MMDA acting chairman Don Artes said in a statement. The turnover ceremony was held at the MMDA head office in Pasig City. The number of those using motorcycles is increasing. So are the fatalities. This Academy will provide motorcycle riders necessary riding and basic emergency response skills and we hope to replicate it in other local government units to lessen motorcycle-related deaths and accidents, Abalos said. The Motorcycle Riding Academy aims to make roads safer with less traffic-related accidents and to increase public awareness when it comes to safety hazards. Meanwhile, Artes reminds the public to abide by traffic rules and for pedestrians to use sidewalks and bridges properly. The reminder comes after a person who was crossing EDSA was accidentally hit by a motorcyle. The MMDA says people who jaywalk across EDSA usually do so after 10 p.m. when traffic enforcers are already off duty. The agency will see if enforcers can be deployed after 10 p.m. to prevent such incidents. Hindi po kami nagkulang sa pagpapaalala, ilang post na po ang ginawa namin kung saan patuloy ang panawagan naming huwag tumawid sa EDSA. Mayroon naman po tayong footbridges na puwede po nating daanan dahil delikado po ang pagtawid, he said. [Transalation: We have not been lax in giving reminders, we have made several posts reminding people not to cross EDSA. There are footbridges people can use.] Abalos suggested penalizing those who will illegally cross EDSA and C5, adding mayors whose jurisdiction includes EDSA should study his recommendation to prevent accidents. CNN Philippines' Daniza Fernandez and Pia Garcia contributed to this report. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 19) The state-run People's Television Network (PTV) is aiming to become the second top broadcasting company in the Philippines next year. During the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) 2024 budget deliberations in the Senate on Monday, PTV general manager Ana Puod said they plan to extensively expand their regional reach for 2024. Our goal for next year is to become number two and hopefully within the next few years ay mag-number one ang PTV sa lahat ng station sa buong Pilipinas, she said. [Translation: And hopefully within the next few years, PTV will become the number one station across the Philippines.] But Puod said this would only materialize with the help of government funding, adding that PTV plans to build 60 digital transmitters nationwide at a cost of 25 million each. Kailangan nating tapatan ng konting gastos para ma-achieve 'yun [We need to spend a little bit of money to achieve that], she said. PTV is an attached government-owned and controlled corporation of the PCO, with 129 million allotted to the agency in the proposed 2024 budget. It is also asking for funds to build its headquarters in Metro Manila. Sen. JV Ejercito, meanwhile, admitted that media giant ABS-CBN had the most extensive network and its closure left a gap in terms of delivering regional news across the country. "'Yung [The] ABS-CBN shutdown 'Yung regional [reach] nila, malaki ang reach, malaki rin ang nawala [Their regional reach is wide and a lot was also lost.] I just have to be honest about it, he said. "That has to be covered especially during a crisis and calamity situation," he added. In response, Puod said PTV is converting one of its channels to become a regional disaster network that will run for about 20 hours per day. Googles dominance in the search arena has given rise to two major antitrust lawsuits from the U.S. government, which allege that the company has manipulated the market to maintain that dominance, to the exclusion of its competitors and the detriment of the public at large. The first lawsuit, targeting Google's search business, kicked off in mid-September, with the US Department of Justice (DOJ) calling its first witnesses, and a second trial against the tech giant, focusing on advertising, is scheduled for next year. The cases heavily echo the turn-of-the-century Microsoft antitrust case in several respects, not least of which is the fact that Google faces the possibility of being broken up by regulators if it is unsuccessful in its legal battles. Heres our condensed timeline of the two lawsuits, and their progress through the court system. October 18, 2023: Google begins its defense, calling Paul Nayak, a vice president of search, to the stand as its first witness. Nayak downplays the importance of scale in his testimony, stressing that machine intelligence, compute infrastructure, and a team of 16,000 staff that checks on search results are crucial to maintaining quality of service. DOJ witnesses including DuckDuckGo CEO Gabriel Weinberg and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella had testified that Google keeps an edge over competitors via an ever-increasing trove of data the result of its default search engine status, maintained through exclusive contracts and billions of dollars in payments to Apple, Samsung and other companies. This data gives Google an advantage in refining search engine results, they said. October 3, 2023: As a witness for the prosecution in the Google antitrust trial, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella warns that Googles monopoly profits could lock in publishers as AI-enabled search arrives. Nadella argued that its almost impossible to compete with Google, given the search leaders massive competitive edge in collecting and analyzing user data. He also warned that Google, with its vast profits and lock on the search market, stands poised to extend its monopoly power in a new era where artificial intelligence technologies will turbocharge the search business. September 26, 2023: Apples Eddy Cue testifies behind closed doors in the Google search case, as critics slam presiding Judge Amit Mehta's decision to hold much of the trial's testimony from witnesses secret, allow documents to be heavily redacted, and block some documents from public view mainly at the insistence of Google, but also at the request of other companies, including Apple. By the end of Cue's testimony and after a wek of wrangling by all parties Judge Mehta rules that documents used during the trial can be published online at the end of each day, but still allows time Google and third parties to object to exhibits being shown publicly before the DOJ presents them in court. September 21, 2023: Judge Mehta rules that public access to court exhibits, which have been mostly internal Google documents thus far, should be removed, after Google challenged the Justice Departments regular publication of them. The company said that it was concerned for its employees privacy. September 12, 2023: The default search trial begins with opening statements, and the government begins its case. August 2023: Judge Mehta grants partial summary judgment for Google in the search case, saying that the government had failed to raise a genuine dispute of material fact on antitrust charges relating to contracts around the use of the Android operating system, as well as Google Assistant and IoT devices. The claims relating to Googles exclusive default search contracts, however, are allowed to proceed to trial. July/August 2023: Google and the plaintiffs in the search case argue various motions in limine, designed to control what evidence should be included or excluded in the actual trial. Discovery and motion practice over evidence continues in the advertising case. June 2023: Judge Mehta schedules a trial date of September 12, 2023 for the search case. April 2023: Judge Leonie M. Brinkema denies Googles motion to dismiss in the advertising case. March 2023: Googles motion to transfer the advertising case to New York is denied by Judge Brinkema, who orders the parties to propose discovery schedules within two weeks of the order. Two weeks later, Google moves to dismiss the case for failure to state a claim, arguing that the plaintiffs have simply produced legal conclusions, and not specific facts, that could support their claims. Judge Brinkema schedules pre-trial conferences for January 2024. February 2023: The plaintiffs in the default search case case move for sanctions against Google, accusing it of spoliation, which refers to the destruction, alteration or failure to preserve relevant evidence in a case. Elsewhere, in the advertising case, Google moves to transfer the case from the Eastern District of Virginia to the Southern District of New York, which is seen as an attempt to consolidate the case with related digital advertising antitrust litigation. January 2023: A second antitrust action, this one filed by eight states and the DoJ, is filed in federal district court in eastern Virginia. The plaintiffs, who call for Googles advertising business to be split up, accuse Google of manipulating its dominant position in the online advertising world to squeeze out rivals and control both the supply and demand side of the advertising market. Google, according to the complaint, thwarted fair competition by manipulating fees, punished advertisers for using alternative platforms and ad exchanges, and engaged in a host of further anti-competitive behavior in the interest of monopolizing the marketplace. December 2022: Google moves for summary judgment against the separate Colorado case and the larger, DoJ-led case. A summary judgement motion is essentially a request by one of the parties in a lawsuit that the judge rule in their favor and end the case, arguing that, based on the undisputed facts, they are entitled to win the case as a matter of law. May 2022: A deadline of June 17 is set for the production of all discovery materials. Further documents for example, those whose is existence is first disclosed in late in the discovery window can be produced until June 30. May 2022: Judge Mehta denies a government motion to sanction Google for inaccurately classifying documents as attorney-client privileged. The plaintiffs had argued that emails on which Googles lawyers were listed as recipients or CCed, but that the lawyers never responded to, constituted a misuse of the attorney-client privilege rules. December 2021: Judge Mehta conditionally splits Colorados claims from the case at large, ordering that separate trials on that states issues of liability and remedies will be more convenient for the Court and the Parties, and will expedite and economize this litigation. August-October 2021: Discovery-related motions and orders continue, as Yelp and Samsung join the fray. (Those companies, like Microsoft and Apple, are relevant to the case even if they arent parties themselves, as their internal records are potentially relevant to Googles liability.) June/July 2021: The discovery process continues, and the U.S. and Google both file several documents with the court under seal. (Microsoft files two sealed documents, as well, in response to Googles subpoenas for company records, and Apple becomes involved after the government requests access to some of its internal information.) March 2021: Meetings between Google and the various governmental plaintiffs continue, with periodic status reports on the discovery process. January 2021: Google files a response to the complaint, admitting to many of the facts alleged by the Justice Department and associated attorneys general, but categorically denying the substance of the governments claims of illegality. Further responses to separate but related claims, generally to specific state attorneys general, follow in the subsequent weeks and months. December 2020: Judge Amit Mehta approves the joinder of Michigan, Wisconsin and California to the suit. October 2020: The Department of Justice, along with the attorneys general of 11 states, sues Google in DC federal district court for unlawfully maintaining a monopoly, in violation of Section 2 of the Sherman Act. The case centers on Googles use of exclusive contracts that mandate its use as the default search engine in a host of different hardware and software applications, with the government alleging that this represents an artificial constraint on any possible competition for the search giant. The UKs Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has warned about the potential risks of artificial intelligence in its newly published review into AI foundation models. Foundation models are AI systems that have been trained on massive, unlabeled data sets. They underpin large language models like OpenAIs GPT-4 and Googles PaLM for generative AI applications like ChatGPT, and can be used for a wide range of tasks, such as translating text and analyzing medical images. The new report proposes a number of principles to guide the ongoing development and use of foundation models, drawing on input from 70 stakeholders, including a range of developers, businesses, consumer and industry organizations, academics, and publicly available information. The proposed principles are: Accountability: AI foundation model developers and deployers are accountable for outputs provided to consumers. Access: Ongoing ready access to key inputs, without unnecessary restrictions. Diversity: Sustained diversity of business models, including both open and closed. Choice: Sufficient choice for businesses so they can decide how to use foundation models. Flexibility: Having the flexibility to switch and/or use multiple foundation models according to need. Fair dealing: No anticompetitive conduct including self-preferencing, tying or bundling. Transparency: Consumers and businesses are given information about the risks and limitations of foundation model-generated content so they can make informed choices. Poorly developed AI models could lead to societal harm While the CMA report highlights how people and businesses stand to benefit from correctly implemented and well developed foundation models, it cautioned that if competition is weak or AI developers fail to comply with consumer protection laws, it could lead to societal harm. Examples given include citizens being exposed to significant levels of false and misleading information and AI-enabled fraud. The CMA also warned that in the longer term, market dominance from a small number of firms could lead to anticompetition concerns, with established players using foundation models to entrench their position and deliver overpriced or poor quality products and services. The speed at which AI is becoming part of everyday life for people and businesses is dramatic. There is real potential for this technology to turbo charge productivity and make millions of everyday tasks easier but we cant take a positive future for granted, said Sarah Cardell, CEO of the CMA, in comments posted alongside the report. There remains a real risk that the use of AI develops in a way that undermines consumer trust or is dominated by a few players who exert market power that prevents the full benefits being felt across the economy. The CMA said that as part of its program of engagement, it would continue to speak to a wide range of interested parties, including consumer groups, governments, other regulators, and leading AI foundation model developers such as Anthropic, Google, Meta, Microsoft, NVIDIA, and OpenAI. The regulator will provide an update on its thinking, including how the principles have been received and adopted, in early 2024. What are the CMAs next steps? The CMA is just one regulator that the UK government has tasked with weighing in on the countrys AI policy. In March, the government published a white paper setting out its guidelines for the responsible use of the technology. However, in order to avoid heavy-handed legislation which could stifle innovation, the government has opted to give responsibility for AI governance to sectoral regulators who will have to rely on existing powers in the absence of any new laws. The CMA has shown a laudable willingness to engage proactively with the rapidly growing AI sector, to ensure that its competition and consumer protection agendas are engaged as early a juncture as possible, said Gareth Mills, partner at law firm Charles Russell Speechlys. He added that while the principles contained in the report are necessarily broad, they have been clearly designed to create a low entry requirement for the sector, allowing smaller players to compete effectively with more established names, while mitigating against the potential for AI technologies to negatively impact consumers. It will be intriguing to see how the CMA seeks to regulate the market to ensure that competition concerns are addressed, Russell said. Hollywood Strikes: Actress Drew Barrymore halts filming for her talk show after facing backlash After facing backlash following her decision to resume filming, actress Drew Barrymore has decided to pause the premiere of her US talk show until the ongoing Hollywood strikes are over. Drew Barrymore's talk show is not returning right now amid Hollywood strikes. Photo Courtesy: Drew Barrymore Instagram page Informing her fans about her decision to halt the premiere of her daytime talk show 'The Drew Barrymore Show', she wrote on Instagram: "I have listened to everyone and I am making the decision to pause the show's premiere until the strike is over." "I have no words to express my deepest apologies to anyone I have hurt and, of course, to our incredible team who works on the show and has made it what it is today," she said. Drew said: "I truly hope for a resolution for the entire industry very soon." She was planning to return to screens on Monday. She took the decision to resume filming despite the ongoing Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike. Interestingly, the shooting for the fourth season of her show took place recently. Drew earlier said the show followed all strike rules. However, she faced backlash on social media over her decision. Among major broadcast networks, only Fox has made a consistent investment in adult animation one thats paid huge dividends. The Simpsons is both the longest-running animated TV series in the U.S. and the longest-running sitcom. (I suppose I should add as of this writing, but the odds that another show will unseat it in either category within our lifetimes seem pretty long.) Family Guy battled back from cancellation and has lasted into a fourth decade of broadcast. Bobs Burgers has spun off a feature film and still shows no sign of losing creative steam heading into its 14th season. (Full disclosure: Longtime Bobs Burgers producer Wendy Molyneux is a friend.) How to ensure that a new animated series will reach the standard these other successful shows have established? Buy it from a guy who co-created one of cable TVs biggest animated hits. Then, the next question: Can Dan Harmons Krapopolis satisfy the expectations set by his Rick and Morty success? In some ways, Krapopolis is a gigantic departure from Rick and Morty. Its set in the titular city-state in Greece, thousands of years in the past. Tyrannis (voice of Richard Ayoade), Krapopolis king, is trying his best to encourage the progress of civilization less war, more diplomacy. This sometimes runs counter to the instincts of his muscle-bound sister Stupendous (Pam Murphy), who can readily solve problems with physical violence. Their third sibling, Hippocampus (Duncan Trussell), is some kind of fish/human hybrid, who lives on land thanks to a globe on his head and a wheeled contraption that lets him toddle around with his leglike back flippers. Hippocampus is routinely called upon to direct his intellect toward uses that will serve Tyrannis. In the premiere, for example, Hippocampus invents bombs while taking a break from creating written language. Advertisement Overseeing all this or, more accurately, interfering in it is the siblings goddess mother Deliria (Hannah Waddingham), a self-involved, social-climbing diva who cares less about Tyrannis citizens well-being than the timeline for the construction of her temple. Their father, Shlub (Matt Berry) a chimeric creature who seems to be part lion, horse, scorpion and bat is a lot more chill. Like his fellow Berry alter ego, Laszlo of What We Do in the Shadows, Shlub is always on the lookout for opportunities to enjoy outre sex acts, leaving him little time for the pursuit of power and adulation. Any comedy series that explicitly revolves around politics will have to make a lot of choices about the angle its going to take, no matter when and where its set or how absurd its premise. Krapopolis was ordered to series in June 2020, weeks into the protests that followed George Floyds murder, and given the long lead time required for animation, its likely the writers room was virtually convened on January 6, 2021. So its a relief that, unlike the current season of Futurama, the first three episodes that were provided to critics dont really attempt any time-shifted takes on contemporary social or political topics. (The second episode gestures toward Hippocampus possibly being an incel, but without including any gags about a show character coining the term; I admire the restraint!) Advertisement Instead, we see the exploration of the space between the essentially grounded premise and the rich possibilities animation offers to heighten it: a man is desperate to forge his own path, separate from his overbearing motherand forging said path will require him to contend with her literally godlike powers, including, for instance, winning a battle by turning some of his citizens into snakes. Its also worth noting how sharp the voice casting is: in an era in which stuntcasting celebrities is often favored over tapping more versatile voice-over professionals, the main cast is a mix of VO all-stars (Trussell, Murphy) and British comedy legends (Waddingham, Berry, Ayoade) who no pun intended arent just going to phone it in. Bigger names do appear in the first few episodes including Dave Franco, Yvette Nicole Brown, Daveed Diggs, and Tim Robinson but voicing characters who are apparent one-offs, such that the stunty effect is more easily justified. Advertisement Unfortunately for Krapopolis, however, its two-episode premiere on September 24th will come just days after Graham Linehans new book went up for pre-sale, embroiling Ayoade in entirely avoidable controversy. Linehan is one of the worlds most famous transphobes, and the book, Tough Crowd, is essentially a memoir about everything his intractable bigotry has cost him, from his career to his family. Said career includes the U.K. sitcom The I.T. Crowd, which starred both Berry and Ayoade. Berry was unequivocal, in a 2021 New York magazine profile, in distancing himself from both Linehan and a 2008 episode of the show in which Berrys character dates and rejects a trans woman: I dont condone anything that that comedy portrayed, you know? I dont share any views that the writer has. Advertisement Advertisement Ayoade, unfortunately, has gone another way, providing a blurb thats excerpted on Tough Crowds cover, but reads, in full, Graham Linehan has long been one of my favourite writers and this book shows that his brilliance in prose is equal to his brilliance as a screenwriter. It unfolds with the urgency of a Sam Fuller film: that of a man who has been through something that few have experienced but has managed to return, undaunted, to tell the tale. Reaction to Ayoades blurb was swift on both sides of the supposed debate regarding trans peoples right to exist. I dont think Ive ever gone so quickly from positively disposed to fuck this guy faster than Richard Ayoade today, wrote Jon Wolter on Bluesky last Thursday, in a post that typified the majority view there. So anyone whos familiar with statements Ayoade makes out of character may automatically be turned off from watching a show to which he lends his voice. (Sidebar: Should Harmon re-evaluate his screening process for collaborators?) Advertisement Ayoades bad opinions aside, there are still other issues with the shows construction. While its true that Tyrannis, our ostensible protagonist, is kind of an irritating nag by design, placing him at the center of the action to be (usually anachronistically) correct about human progress provides the show with its laziest jokes, intended for us to chuckle at knowingly from our more enlightened present day. Meanwhile, Tyrannis most frequent quasi-antagonist, Deliria, could give us a much more fun perspective on the story if the show were about her. Despite being omnipotent, or close to it, theres still plenty Deliria desires, driving her into cock-eyed schemes. What are the frustrations, for her, of being outside of Mt. Olympus inner circle? Whats required for her to break through? Whats it like having a squishy, boring, mortal son whos constantly refusing her help despite her many powers? Plenty of comedy has already been made out of the plight of whiny boys and men; for this to have squandered the chance at centering a dynamic literal goddess is a huge disappointment. Advertisement That said, there are early signs that, while the show may not be able to push Tyrannis too far into the background, it can find myriad ways to humiliate him. In addition to a powerhouse voice performance by Robinson, the third episode gives us a glimpse at how Deliria may use Tyrannis as a means to her own self-promotion; theres also a very charming plotline for Stupendous as an assistant to Hippocampus research into wolf culture that hit me right in my soft, dog-loving heart. Lets all hope Ayoade reverses himself on Linehan such that watching his show will no longer constitute a tacit endorsement of transphobia, because Krapopolis, unlike Hippocampus, may have legs. After The U.K. Times, The Sunday Times and U.K. network Channel 4s Dispatches released the results of a joint investigative report with four women accusing Russell Brand of rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse, a competing narrative emerged, driven by Brand himself. Sure, I had plenty of sex, Brand said, but it was all consensual. The real story behind the accusations? Its all part of a larger plot to punish Brand, the theory went, for telling the truth about the COVID vaccine on venues like Bill Mahers Club Random. Righteous fellows like Alex Jones are defending Brand against the globalists scheme as well. Click right here to get the best of Cracked sent to your inbox. But if there is indeed a conspiracy to silence Brand for his March 2023 comments, it was one hell of a long con. Talent agency WME dropped Brand a few years ago with alleged sleazy behavior a big part of the reason, according to Pucks Matthew Belloni. When Brand was working in Hollywood, he was a notorious perv, Belloni has reported. Comics like Jena Friedman also pointed out that the Brand news wasnt exactly news. Advertisement Advertisement Scottish comic Daniel Sloss, who spoke on the record in the Dispatches report, revealed how that open secret was shared in the comedy world. I know that there are (online) groups set up by female comedians where they warn each other of comedians, and agents, people in the industry who to avoid, Sloss said. And I know for many, many years that women have been warning each other about Russell. Sloss himself has heard the rumors for years. There were many stories. It wasnt just coming from one person or one group of people. It was different incidents over different years, and of varying degrees of severity, he continued. Ive stood in artists bars with agents, promoters, channel commissioners, and Im hearing these allegations and rumors about Russell in the same room these people are in. And then, later on, he would be in a movie, on a television show, he would be hosting something. He was still being employed. Advertisement Or at least he was. WME wasnt the only company distancing itself from Brand. Acting roles on both sides of the pond dried up substantially; he spends most of his time now hosting podcasts that have notoriously swung to the right. That would be a weird fall for someone who was one of the biggest comic stars of the aughts if you didnt believe the rumors were true. Advertisement Brand did get a job in 2018 as a judge on Comedy Central's Roast Battles. But fellow judge Katherine Ryan regularly accused him of being a sexual predator during the show's tapings, reports Deadline. The accusations never aired but the unexpected roasting led the absolutely furious Brand to exit the show after a year. Did female comics anticipate Brands future anti-vax comments and start warning each other with made-up complaints a decade in advance so that the Establishment could spring its trap in 2023? If so, well played, Establishment! Or a different conclusion could be true Brand has been awful for years, the not-even-half whispers are true and its time his behavior was brought into the light. NHK - Oct 27 The number of shops and staff at Japan's Narita Airport has taken a big hit since the start of the pandemic. The slump comes at a difficult time for the transport hub, which is facing a resurgence in tourists and other travelers. When Bob Odenkirks 24-year-old son Nate started making noise about getting a writing job on a prestigious comedy show like Saturday Night Live, youd best believe the old man shared some cautionary tales. On Tig Notaros Dont Ask Tig podcast, the senior Odenkirk remembered his own days at SNL as a 25-year-old writer: I was unsure of myself. It was hard. It was existentially dangerous. I had feelings of I should erase myself. Click right here to get the best of Cracked sent to your inbox. Erase yourself? Geez, that sounds serious. I was too young when I got hired at SNL, he told Notaro. That was not a good thing. That couldve gone wrong. That couldve gone so wrong. It came this close so many times to going so wrong. You gotta believe me. And its hard for kids to believe you when you say, I had no f---ing clue what I was doing and I was scared outta my wits for years. The Mr. Show co-creator has expressed his misgivings about his SNL education before, a time that left him feeling out of place and resentful, according to his memoir Comedy Comedy Comedy Drama. Sadly, as a writer I was a waste of bagels! he wrote. I was trying too hard, but the more I failed, the more I tried. Its a sick cycle that afflicts many a fresh SNLer. Odenkirks frustrations at Saturday Night Live will sound familiar to anyone whos heard other unhappy cast members and writers complain about their tenure on the show: The work schedule is insane, especially the stay up all night part. Theres no time to rework pretty good sketches into great ones. No one gives you advice on how to get started, much less tips on how to excel. And how exactly are you supposed to deal with the inspiration for Dr. Evil, Lorne Michaels? I basically had a huge chip on my shoulder, and mix that in with Lornes traditional intimidation and its not good, Odenkirk explained in the oral history Live From New York. I didnt respond to the way he likes to approach young performers and set himself up as some kind of very distant, strange Comedy God. Advertisement Better experiences at Second City and working on stage shows with Robert Smigel and Conan OBrien convinced Odenkirk it was time to move on from SNL. Basically, I had to realize that I wanted what every comedy writer wants, he wrote in Comedy Comedy Comedy Drama. My own damn show. But that doesnt mean Odenkirk didnt get a comedy education. I owe SNL so much, he concluded in his memoir. I had quietly, excruciatingly learned the components of a good sketch and developed a sense of structure that gave me confidence and led to all my best sketch work still to come. Lorne had subsidized my education in sketch writing, and now he would see none of the benefits. Poor fella. I took my diploma and ran. Certain TikTok platform settings, including public-by-default settings as well as the settings associated with the Family Pairing feature. Age verification as part of the registration process. "As part of the inquiry, the DPC also examined certain of TTL's transparency obligations, including the extent of information provided to child users in relation to default settings," the IDC said. The DPC's decision, which was adopted on September 1 2023, recorded findings of infringement of Articles 5(1)(c), 5(1)(f), 24(1), 25(1), 25(2), 12(1), 13(1)(e) and 5(1)(a) GDPR - these relate to a range of matters including data security, data protection by design, and data processing. A spokesperson for the social media firm said it "respectfully disagree[s] with the decision, particularly the level of the fine imposed," according to the BBC. 6. T-Mobile: $350 million In July 2022, mobile communications giant T-Mobile announced the terms of a settlement for a consolidated class action lawsuit following a data breach that occurred in early 2021, impacting an estimated 77 million people. The incident centered around "unauthorized access" to T-Mobile's systems after a portion of customer data was listed for sale on a known cybercriminal forum. In an SEC filing, it was revealed that T-Mobile would pay an aggregate of $350 million to fund claims submitted by class members, the legal fees of plaintiffs' counsel, and the costs of administering the settlement. The company would also commit to an aggregate incremental spend of $150 million for data security and related technology in 2022 and 2023. "The company anticipates that, upon court approval, the settlement will provide a full release of all claims arising out of the cyberattack by class members, who do not opt out, against all defendants, including the company, its subsidiaries and affiliates, and its directors and officers," the filing read. "The settlement contains no admission of liability, wrongdoing or responsibility by any of the defendants. Class members consist of all individuals whose personal information was compromised in the breach, subject to certain exceptions set forth in the agreement. The company believes that terms of the proposed settlement are in line with other settlements of similar types of claims," it added. 7. Meta (Facebook): $277 million In November 2022, the Ireland Data Protection Commission (DPC) fined Meta $277 million (EUR265 million) for the compromise of 500 million users' personal information. The DPC started its inquiry on April 14, 2021, following reports of a collated data set of Facebook personal data that had been made available on the internet. The scope of the inquiry concerned an examination and assessment of Facebook Search, Facebook Messenger Contact Importer and Instagram Contact Importer tools in relation to processing carried out by Meta Platforms Ireland Limited (MPIL) during the period between May 25, 2018, and September 2019. "The material issues in this inquiry concerned questions of compliance with the GDPR obligation for Data Protection by Design and Default," the DPC wrote. "The DPC examined the implementation of technical and organisational measures pursuant to Article 25 GDPR (which deals with this concept). There was a comprehensive inquiry process, including cooperation with all of the other data protection supervisory authorities within the EU. Those supervisory authorities agreed with the decision of the DPC." The decision imposed a reprimand and an order requiring MPIL to bring its processing into compliance by taking a range of specified remedial actions within a particular timeframe. 8. WhatsApp: $255 million Facebook-owned messaging service WhatsApp was fined EUR225 million ($255 million) in August 2021 for a series of GDPR cross-border data protection infringements in Ireland. The fine followed a lengthy investigation and enforcement process which began in 2018 and involved the Data Protection Commission's proposed decision and sanctions being rejected by its counterpart European data protection regulators, resulting in a referral to and ruling from the European Data Protection Board. Allegations focused on complaints from users and non-users of WhatsApp's services, involving alleged breaches of transparency and data subject information obligations under articles 12, 13 and 14 of the GDPR. 9. Home Depot: ~$200 million In 2014 Home Depot was involved in one of the largest data breaches to date involving a point-of-sale (POS) system, leading to a number of fines and settlements being paid. Stolen credentials from a third party enabled attackers to enter Home Depot's network, elevate privileges, and eventually compromise the POS system. More than 50 million credit card numbers and 53 million email addresses were stolen over a five-month period between April and September 2014. Home Depot has reportedly paid out at least $134.5 million to credit card companies and banks as a result of the breach. In addition, in 2016 Home Depot agreed to pay $19.5 million to customers that had been affected by the breach, which included the cost of credit monitoring services to breach victims. In 2017 the firm agreed to pay an additional $25 million to the financial institutions affected by the breach that could be claimed by victims and cover banks' losses. Breaches can have a longtail of costs, especially when it comes to fines and settlements. In November 2020, the retailer paid a further $17.5 million settlement to 46 US states and Washington DC for the breach. The agreement also compels Home Depot to employ a highly qualified CISO, provide security training for key personnel, and ensure security controls and policies in areas like identity and access, monitoring, and incident response. 10. Capital One: $190 million In December 2021, Capital One agreed to pay $190 million to settle a class-action lawsuit filed against it by U.S. customers over a 2019 data breach that affected 100 million people. This settlement comes more than a year after the U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency fined Capital One $80 million for the same breach (see below). A software engineer at AWS was behind the attack, which exposed information including bank account details. "While Capital One and AWS deny all liability, in the interest of avoiding the time, expense and uncertainty of continued litigation, plaintiffs and Capital One have executed a term sheet containing the essential terms of a class settlement that, if approved by this court, will fully resolve all claims brought by plaintiffs," a filing with the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia read. In an emailed statement, Capital One said that key facts in the case had not changed since it announced the event in coordination with federal authorities more than two years ago, with the hacker arrested and the stolen data recovered before it could be disseminated or used for fraudulent purposes. "We are pleased to have reached an agreement that will resolve the consumer class litigation in the U.S.," the company added. 11. Uber: $148 million In 2016 ride-hailing app Uber had 600,000 driver and 57 million user accounts breached. Instead of reporting the incident, the company paid the perpetrator $100,000 to keep the hack under wraps. Those actions, however, cost the company dearly. The company was fined $148 million in 2018 -- the biggest data-breach fine in history at the time -- for violation of state data breach notification laws. 12. Morgan Stanley: $120 million (total) In January 2022, investment bank and financial services giant Morgan Stanley agreed to pay $60 million to settle a legal claim relating to its data security. The agreement, if approved by a federal judge in Manhattan, will resolve a class-action lawsuit was that filed against the company in July 2020 regarding two security breaches that compromised the personal data of approximately 15 million customers. According to claimants, Morgan Stanley failed to protect the personally identifiable information (PII) of current and former clients. It is alleged data center equipment decommissioned by the firm in 2016 and 2019 was not efficiently wiped clean and a software flaw meant that unencrypted, sensitive data was visible to whoever purchased the equipment. The proposed claim settlement comes more than a year after Morgan Stanley was handed a separate $60 million civil penalty by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) in relation to the same incidents. The OCC stated that Morgan Stanley failed "to exercise proper oversight of the 2016 decommissioning of two Wealth Management business data centers located in the U.S. Among other things, the banks failed to effectively assess or address risks associated with decommissioning its hardware; failed to adequately assess the risk of subcontracting the decommissioning work, including exercising adequate due diligence in selecting a vendor and monitoring its performance; and failed to maintain appropriate inventory of customer data stored on the decommissioned hardware devices." In 2019, the banks experienced similar vendor management control deficiencies in connection with decommissioning other network devices that also stored customer data, the OCC added. In a statement on the recent settlement agreement, Morgan Stanley said: "We have previously notified all potentially impacted clients regarding these matters, which occurred several years ago, and are pleased to be resolving this related litigation." 13. Google Ireland: 102 million Google Ireland was hit by a EUR90 million ($102 million) fine by French data protection authority the CNIL on January 6, 2022. The fine related to how Google's European arm implements cookie consent procedures on YouTube. "The CNIL has received many complaints about the way cookies can be refused on the websites google.fr and youtube.com," it wrote. "In June 2021, the CNIL carried out an online investigation on these websites and found that, while they offer a button allowing immediate acceptance of cookies, the sites do not implement an equivalent solution (button or other) enabling the user to refuse the deposit of cookies equally easily. Several clicks are required to refuse all cookies, against a single one to accept them." The restricted committee considered that this process affected the freedom of consent of internet users and constituted an infringement of Article 82 of the French Data Protection Act. Editors note: This article, originally published in July 2019, is frequently updated as new information on incident penalties becomes available. Earlier this month, the US Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that Verizon Business Network Services agreed to pay $4,091,317, plus interest, to resolve False Claims Act (FCA) allegations. These allegations held that the companys Managed Trusted Internet Protocol Service (MTIPS) provided from 2017 to 2021 to federal agencies did not meet three cybersecurity controls for trusted internet connections required for General Services Administration (GSA) contracts. Verizon undertook an internal investigation that discovered the issues surrounding its compliance with the requirements, voluntarily disclosed the problems to the GSA, and cooperated with the governments investigation. The company then took steps to remediate the issues. Verizon received credit or reduced payment under DOJ guidelines for False Claims Act cases for its voluntary disclosures and subsequent remediation measures. Although neither DOJ nor Verizon disclosed how much of a credit the company received, one estimate pegs it at $1.3 million. Verizons settlement is the latest False Claims Act action by the DOJ since the October 2021 creation within the department of its Civil Cyber-Fraud Initiative. In announcing the initiative, Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco said, We will use our civil enforcement tools to pursue companies, those who are government contractors who receive federal funds, when they fail to follow required cybersecurity standards -- because we know that puts all of us at risk. Legal and cybersecurity experts say the Verizon settlement and earlier FCA claims brought under the cyber initiative underscore the need for organizations to step up their cyber compliance game to ward off whistleblower reports, which the FCA protects, and mitigate financial penalties. (DOJ encourages whistleblowers to report cyber fraud to the Inspector Generals Office.) Moreover, the rate at which Justice is bringing action appears to be accelerating, suggesting that even more FCA-related actions could soon emerge. Previous cyber-related FCA claims Verizons recent settlement represents the third False Claims action under the new DOJ effort. DOJ announced its first settlement under the Civil Cyber-Fraud Initiative in March 2022 with Florida-based healthcare provider Comprehensive Health Services LLC (CHS). CHS agreed to pay $930,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by misrepresenting to the State Department and the Air Force that it complied with security contract requirements relating to providing medical services at the State Department and Air Force facilities in Iraq and Afghanistan. For the first time more than 10 per cent of the Japanese population are aged 80 or older, according to new official data. This reinforces Japan's reputation as the world's oldest society with 29 per cent of the population now aged 65 or more, a full 5 per cent ahead of Italy in second place. The evidence is there for all to see: walk around a typical Tokyo neighbourhood in the mid-afternoon and all you'll see is old, often ancient people. You'll think you wandered into a gated retirement community or an open air gathering of the Darby and Joan club. The new data adds yet more weight to the already abundant evidence of Japan's frightening demographic challenges. The ageing population percentage is a result of greater longevity coupled with a declining birthrate - 2022 marked the fewest births on record for the country. It is estimated that, at current rates, the Japanese population will decline by about 50 million (from 126 million to 75 million) by 2100. As Elon Musk once observed, unless the population bomb is defused the Japanese may be extinct in a few centuries (you can actually watch the Japanese population shrinking in real time here, if that floats your boat). ...continue reading Stocks are a key ingredient in the portfolio of millions of investors and traders. They can provide a long-term path towards passive income potentially hitting double-digit returns. But the stock market can also be confusing, and potentially costly or dangerous, with the process of picking the right stocks, at the right time, not always so clear. Read on and discover our guide on how to pick stocks for investors to move towards meeting their goals. How to pick stocks: Step by Step There are a variety of crucial factors to consider when approaching the question How to pick stocks. These considerations can determine the success of a stock portfolio and range from the financial health of the companies chosen, to liquidity and volatility of the stock in question, to wider fundamental events outside the companys control. Investors should consider all of these influences to have the best chance of building a stock portfolio capable of meeting their goals. Heres a step-by-step list below. 1. Establish a plan Establishing a plan is key starting point when picking stocks. Youll need to consider questions such as how many stocks to buy, what your likely plans are for the money down the line, and whether youd prefer to trade stocks over the short term rather than invest for a longer-term approach. For example, long-term investors looking to buy and hold stocks for five years or more will obviously have a very different strategy to those looking for short positions in overbought market conditions like we saw frequently in the latter part of the 2010s. If youre in it for the short term, find out more on how to create a trading plan for technical analysis. 2. Assess your risk tolerance Your tolerance for risk will play a key role in determining the kind of stocks to pick. To this point, if an investor is looking for a more risk-averse portfolio, they may want to weigh more towards defensive stocks such as those in utilities or consumer staples. Alternatively, a higher-risk approach could see an investor choosing companies in emerging economies or immature sectors, or companies that depend on key market events going a certain way for their targets to be realized. For example, a pharma company awaiting FDA approval for a new drug will be subject to the risk of that approval not happening an event potentially devastating to its share price. Find out more on navigating risk management with our helpful guide. 3. Do your research Attractive stocks can be found in a variety of circumstances, but an investor may get a head start on the crowd if they know a couple of sectors and the companies within them inside-and-out. Recommended by Ben Lobel Consult our equities forecast to help your stock picks Get My Guide Here are some of the key things to consider about the companies behind the stocks being analyzed, as well as the market conditions in which they might be most attractive. Financial condition Understand the state of the companys balance sheet. What are its assets, liabilities, and cash flow situations? Research revenue in recent periods. Management Whos steering the ship and whats their industry track record? Do they enjoy shareholder confidence? Innovation How does the company innovate to stay ahead of and respond to its competition? How have new products and services been received by customers and shareholders? Dividends Is the company paying a dividend, and if so, how often and will it be increased? Find out more about how to invest in dividend stocks. Price and valuation Is the company undervalued? To find out, calculate the price-to-earnings ratio, or P/E, by dividing the companys stock price by its earnings per share. A P/E of around 15 may be considered cheap but that doesnt necessarily mean that its worth buying or inexpensive by industry standards. Being cheap may just mean investors lack confidence in its growth prospects. Find out more about how to value a stock. Liquidity Does the stock have sufficient trading volume to allow traders to enter and exit the market as straightforwardly as possible? Read more on stock market liquidity for a detailed picture. Volatility How volatile has the price movement been for this stock, and what are the reasons for any extreme fluctuations? With volatility naturally comes increased risk, but also potential opportunity. Read more on stock market volatility to discover how to take advantage. Explore our in-depth guide on researching stocks for more information. 4. Use technicals and other tools where appropriate If you are trading stocks in the short term, for example as a day trader, swing trader or scalper, you may want to investigate technical analysis tools to try and gauge price action in order to help time entries and exits. These tools include the moving average, MACD and RSI, as well as volume and support and resistance levels. Naturally, these tools rely on historical price activity to inform choices, so while they can be useful for projecting trends, it is advisable to combine a technical approach with understanding of the fundamental factors that can override patterns and, of course, risk management. Read more on technical indicators and how they can assist your analysis. 5. Pick the stock and trade it activelyor just wait When it comes to the procedural process of picking the stock for a long-term investment or short-term trading endeavor, the clearest method is often via a trading platform/online brokerage account, which can be set up with proof of ID and a choice of funding method. After that, while short-term speculators may be actively trading the stock, long-term passive investors will usually be waiting it out. For the latter, while therell be ups and downs along the way, the mission is to capitalize on growth over a period of many years. Check out our equities webinar for a weekly stocks outlook Weekly Commodities Trading Prep Register for Webinar Join Now Webinar Has Ended The Best Performing Stocks - Jan 00 to Jan 20 Stock Growth in Stock Price Jan 00-Jan 20 Monster Beverage Corporation 73,300% Netflix 34,400% Apple 20,000% Tractor Supply Company 17,000% Amazon 11,400% Most popular stocks As mentioned above, the most popular stocks to trade by volume consistently show up as the likes of giant corporations Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Netflix and Alphabet, but different fundamental events can cause the stocks of various other companies to come out on top in shorter-term trading volume. The chart below shows the stocks with the highest global volume for the month at the end of March 2020. The leading stock by volume, Greece-based tanker vessel operator Top Ships Inc, grew in popularity as an asset sale saw an influx of funding which allowed the company to greatly reduce its debt. The stock was likely even buoyed by circumstances surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, with surging product demand in areas such as cleaning supplies and paper products leading to increased shipping requirements. Another company seeing unusually high volume in March was cruise line operator Carnival Corp, much of which was to the short side as the company suspended dividend payments and stock repurchases as voyage suspensions continued amid the coronavirus outbreak. Rounding out the top three is Ford, which saw a seven-year high in trading volume, again mostly to the short side, as coronavirus decimated production and market demand. What lesson can stock pickers learn from these examples? When a huge fundamental crisis hits, stocks are affected in different ways. Research on different sectors may shine a light on the industries that could pick up steam when others are going in the other direction. So read up, keep your eyes open, and focus on the goals of the portfolio. FAQs How do you decide what stocks to buy? Deciding what stocks to buy is a multi-faceted process based on factors such as industry knowledge, corporate financials, timing, wider market fundamentals, and in some cases, technical patterns. Investors can put all or some of it together in the effort of building the most appropriate individualized approach. When should you buy shares? Timing is everything, but not all oversold shares are ready to be snapped up after all, they were sold for a reason. Consider the growth potential of the industry and the company within it, and the fundamental factors that might affect its journey along with how that investment or trade may fit with the goals of the portfolio. Is it worth it to buy 1 share of stock? It depends on the stock- and the circumstances. Stocks are priced across the board, so owning one share of Berkshire Hathaway has very different ramifications for an investors financial position than owning one share of Facebook. What stocks does Warren Buffett own? Speaking of Berkshire Hathaway some of Warren Buffetts largest investments are currently in financial institutions such as Bank of America and Wells Fargo, consumer brands such as Coca-Cola and Kraft-Heinz, and technology giants such as Apple and Sirius. How many stocks should I own? That depends entirely on your plan and the companies you choose. Overall, its advisable to aim for a diversified portfolio, with a mixture of growth and defensive stocks, to ensure that risk can be managed effectively. For more on stock trading, including the main types of stocks, a background on indices and why the stock market is important, check out our beginners guide to trading stocks. TabiEats - Oct 23 Kyoto has tons of street food and we're here to help you find the best! We're trying out some of the newer shops that have opened since we last visited. Emily Maitlis enthusiastically joins the chorus of Russell Brand critics, retweeting coverage of the scandal four years after admitting in her memoirs that she was smitten by the hairy libertine. She describes flirting with him after he arrived late for a BBC Newsnight interview. 'He has me at "hello",' she trills approvingly, noting his 'tight leather trousers and white shirt, whose buttons have been flung apart insouciantly to reveal a more than adequate amount of chest hair'. When asked by Brand to pose for a photograph, she gushes: 'Of course I do not mind. A photo! Of me! For Twitter! With Russell Brand!' She adds: 'See, I am grubbily keen already and he's only been in the room one minute.' Pictured: Emily Maitlis. She describes flirting with Brand after he arrived late for a BBC Newsnight interview Pictured: Russell Brand. King Charles had a narrow escape when Brand was mooted as a possible Prince's Trust ambassador for his appeal to youth Her former BBC colleague Nick Robinson wasn't as beguiled, noting on Radio 4's Today programme yesterday that the hirsute Casanova's political views were eagerly publicised by Newsnight, the New Statesman and the Guardian. When Brand refused an interview with smug Nick in 2015, he called him a 'sanctimonious t***'. King Charles had a narrow escape when Brand was mooted as a possible Prince's Trust ambassador for his appeal to youth. Fortuitously, he was regarded as beyond the pale because of his openly lewd behaviour. Charles did have an awkward meeting at a Pride of Britain event in 2010. Recalled Brand: 'I was shoved into him and I saw a moment in his eyes as we shook hands when he realised, "That's that mad comedian." And he sort of tried to get away. I had him in a bit of a grip. I was holding on, thinking, "This is my moment. I'm not letting him go just yet".' He adds: 'There was a moment where he was trying to recoil and I heard his wrist click a bit.' A penny for the thoughts of ex-girlfriend Jemima Goldsmith amid the Russell Brand brouhaha. Not shy to make public declarations of love during their year-long romance, on his 39th birthday, Jemima tweeted: 'Happy birthday... you beautiful diamond encrusted revolutionary. I love you.' They split three months later. Pictured: Jemima Goldsmith, ex-girlfriend of Russell Brand. On his 39th birthday, Jemima tweeted: 'Happy birthday... you beautiful diamond encrusted revolutionary. I love you.' They split three months later Sir Ian McKellen chuckles at his reputation for being 'pretty dapper'. He says: 'It's more luck than judgment. For much of my career I wore jeans and my father's old sweater. After he died I also wore his underwear I only stopped when the entire cast of Macbeth bought me underwear for my birthday.' Did being downwind of fruity Ian at Glamis Castle prove too much? Asked to nominate her favourite lyric, Dolly Parton has no hesitation replying: 'One that I remember the very moment I wrote was, "Pour myself a cup of ambition". I went: "Yeah, that's so good!" Sometimes when those lines come, you just think, "Oh my goodness I'm so proud of myself".' Adding: 'I may even start my own Starbucks type of coffee and tea shop "Cup of Ambition".' D cup Dolly? Russell Brand is a foul-mouthed braggart who has forged a lucrative career through obscene and insulting behaviour. As a comedian, he specialises in humour which is both puerile and demeaning, no more exemplified than when he used his Radio 2 show in 2008 to humiliate Andrew Sachs by leaving the actor voicemails about having sex with his granddaughter. Even so, the full extent of the accusations currently levelled against him, which include rape, sexual assaults and emotional abuse of women over a seven-year period, remain nothing short of shocking. Brand has strenuously denied the claims, insisting that his sexual relationships have always been consensual. But what emerges from the litany of tawdry details is a picture of repeated failure among Brand's employers at both the BBC and Channel 4 to keep their star's vile professional conduct in check. Russell Brand is a foul-mouthed braggart who has forged a lucrative career through obscene and insulting behaviour Brand's former bosses at BBC Radio 2 reportedly knew of claims he was having sex in the toilets with competition winners from his show but are alleged to have failed to act on them We have learned, for example, that Channel 4 staff were asked to act as 'pimps' for Brand by procuring phone numbers from female audience members, a process they describe as 'taking lambs into slaughter'. Similarly, Brand's former bosses at BBC Radio 2 reportedly knew of claims he was having sex in the toilets with competition winners from his show but are alleged to have failed to act on them. Why not? Any ordinary employee would have been instantly dismissed. Instead, management appear to have been only too happy to tolerate their star's tawdry antics as part and parcel of his 'edgy' appeal. Indeed, were it not for The Mail On Sunday's reporting of the Sachs affair, the incident would have gone by largely unnoticed. Only after relentless pressure in the pages of our newspapers did the BBC eventually dismiss him. It looks as if there is a disturbing pattern here. When accusations are made against the BBC's star names, those higher up the ladder always claim to be the last to know. In Brand's case this is simply not credible. His entire act has centred around abhorrent sexual boasts, an immediate red flag to those who put him on the airwaves. Yet executives turned a blind eye. They now have serious questions to answer. Yet another flip-flop Well, that didn't last long. Days after announcing Labour's plan to tackle immigration, Sir Keir Starmer's proposals are already unravelling before our eyes. Having revealed he was working on an EU-wide returns deal, a move which would result in thousands more asylum seekers being sent here, he now dismisses those suggestions as 'absolute garbage'. So what is Labour's solution? Despite months of carping from the sidelines, the truth is they simply haven't got one. Having revealed he was working on an EU-wide returns deal, a move which would result in thousands more asylum seekers being sent here, Starmer now dismisses those suggestions as 'absolute garbage' As a lifelong cheerleader for open borders, the idea Sir Keir was ever serious about tackling the migrant crisis was laughable in the first place. The Labour leader's latest flip-flop only goes to prove one thing: When it comes to immigration, voters shouldn't believe a single word he says. Listen to Liz, Rishi Liz Truss's brief period in Downing Street might have ended in ignominy. Her scepticism about green targets, though, remains eminently sensible. In a speech today, the former prime minister will urge Rishi Sunak to ditch the Government's unfeasible schemes, including the economically reckless plan to ban sales of diesel and petrol cars by 2030. Mr Sunak would be forgiven for turning a deaf ear to anything his predecessor suggests. But on this woefully ill thought-out issue he must take note and listen. I'll never forget the night Russell Brand offered to kiss me. He had been busy losing an argument about drugs on the BBC Newsnight programme, back in 2012. I already knew him of old. During our first encounter, at a London debate on drugs chaired by Emily Maitlis, I had teased him about his silly hat and referred to him as an 'alleged comedian' (I think the jury is still out on that). I thought that a person who enjoyed mocking others, such as poor Andrew Sachs, might not be used to it himself. I tried to get him to say if he had been responsible for his own drug-taking. But instead I received a verbal explosion about how I was bigoted, about how The Mail on Sunday was bigoted, about how I 'peddled hatred' and lacked love for other human beings. Then there was the usual accusation of racial prejudice. The audience at that debate loved it, and the encounter ended with the unmistakable sound of North London liberals baying for more. PETER HITCHENS: I'll never forget the night Russell Brand offered to kiss me. He had been busy losing an argument about drugs on the BBC Newsnight programme, back in 2012 (Brand pictured on Newsnight in 2012) Now here we were again, debating drugs and the law, this time under the chairmanship of the BBC's Stephanie Flanders. Not that it mattered that he was losing the argument: Mr Brand was the one who had been asked to make a series of programmes on the subject, and I wasn't. I was the one who had written and published a critical history of British drug laws since the 1960s, and he had written a volume called My Booky Wook. He was also the one who knew how to rip his shirt (or on this occasion, I think, his jeans). Not long before, Mr Brand had been invited to give evidence cowboy hat, ripped shirt and all to the House of Commons Home Affairs Select Committee. FOLLOW OUR LIVE BLOG HERE: Comedian's jokes about raping a woman emerge amid allegations of sexual assault - and claims that he sent a 'BBC car' to pick up teenage girl from secondary school Advertisement I had the strong impression that its members were keener to hear from him than they were from me and my two colleagues Mary Brett and Kathy Gyngell, increasingly lonely opponents of the weakening of the drug laws. Mr Brand, remember, had in 2008 distinguished himself with his horrible, creepy prank, alongside Jonathan Ross, that he played on the actor Andrew Sachs. Remember what he did. He left three messages on Mr Sachs' answerphone, making repeated lewd and graphic claims about his granddaughter. These were then broadcast by BBC Radio. The BBC was fined 150,000 over the so-called Sachsgate scandal. It cost Brand his job at Radio 2, and led to the suspension of Ross and the disciplining of executives. Yet four years later the same Russell Brand was commissioned by another part of the BBC to make a major documentary series about drugs, apparently because he had once taken them. Brand, in my view, is not stupid, though he is ill-informed and very bad at arguing. He makes much use of his teeth, baring them as he jeers. His voice, if you challenge him, is very strange. It is a sort of rising hedge-trimmer whine when he is trying to talk over you. Then it is a disturbing baby-talk simper (disturbing because it is issuing from a grown man), when he is trying to ingratiate himself either with you, the presenter or the audience. He may be conscious of this. He once called me, without any obvious justification, a 'peculiar child', but I remember thinking the term applied much more to him. He is especially contemptuous towards anyone older than him. I was struck, during his appearance before the Home Affairs Committee, by his attitude towards the oldest member, the very spry and sharp David Winnick, then aged nearly 80. Mr Brand (pictured), remember, had in 2008 distinguished himself with his horrible, creepy prank, alongside Jonathan Ross, that he played on the actor Andrew Sachs Mr Winnick very properly rebuked Mr Brand for being flippant, saying: 'It is not quite a variety show, Mr Brand.' The supposed comedian slashed back like an irritated cat, displaying an unpleasant smirk and once again demonstrating that he was not as nice as he looked. He chose a direct sneer about Mr Winnick's age, saying: 'You are providing a little bit of variety, though. You are making it more like Dad's Army.' Much of Mr Brand's testimony was verbal porridge: here's an answer he gave to a Tory MP who had, in fact, asked someone else whether ignoring drug offences might make matters worse. Mr Brand jumped into the discussion and emitted the following: 'Being arrested isn't a lesson. It is just an administrative blip. 'You need to demonstrate an awareness of the situation. 'Yes, of course, in many ways the disease or the condition of addiction does exacerbate, and if you start taking drugs it is likely you will take worse drugs, and if you are taking expensive drugs you will end up committing crime. 'But again, mate, what we need to identify is a degree of authenticity and compassion in the way we deal with this problem, otherwise you just seem like you don't know what you are talking about.' It is gibberish. Note the mixture of long, pretentious words and the pseudo-friendly use of the word 'mate'. Arguing seriously with such a person is like trying to play chess with a squirrel, which might move the occasional piece without any real idea what it was doing, but at the next moment will overturn the board, scattering the pawns, kings and queens, and chattering shrilly as it does so. But I have seen him taken seriously. I meet people quite often who do take him seriously. And that is why I am a bit proud that, on that August night, Brand tried so hard to put me off my stride, and failed. Once again there was the molasses-like sentimentality about how we should feel more compassion, calling me 'mate', then the patronising dismissal, calling me antiquated and accusing me of 'foghorn madness from bygone times'. PETER HITCHENS (pictured on BBC Newsnight in 2013): Arguing seriously with such a person is like trying to play chess with a squirrel, which might move the occasional piece without any real idea what it was doing, but at the next moment will overturn the board, scattering the pawns, kings and queens, and chattering shrilly as it does so Then it came. The baby voice was fully deployed, the teeth fully displayed: 'I have learned to love you, Peter, and in a minute I am going to give you such a kiss on the lips. I am going to challenge you on a few other of your prejudices.' He never got near me, I am pleased to report. I asked then as I ask now why such a person is given such a powerful place in the national debate. The answer, I think, lies in the astonishing power of celebrity over those deprived of any real hope in life. In our society, what would once have been a comfortable, secure way of life is incredibly hard to obtain. Education has failed, the economy offers little but low pay and high rents. Celebrities are like us, yet they are rich. The more like us they are, the more we love them for their success, and the more we listen to them. The older voices of education, research, skill, experience are just crabby, Victorian and outdated. Unless we can do something pretty radical about it, the future belongs to Russell Brand, or someone very like him. The box is intended 'to give every single baby in Scotland an equal start in life' An American delivery nurse filmed her shocked reactions while watching a pregnant Scottish woman open a government-gifted 'baby box' offering abundant supplies for the newborn. North Carolina native Jen Hamilton, 33, appeared awestruck in a new TikTok as she observed mommy blogger Rachel Clenaghan, 28, unpack the contents of the 'baby box,' which she'd received free of cost 36 weeks along in her pregnancy. 'Today we received our Scottish Baby Box, which every family in Scotland is entitled to when they are expecting a baby,' Rachel began. 'And it is free from the Scottish Government. So I thought I would unbox it with you guys and show you what came inside,' she continued. Scottish mommy blogger Rachel Clenaghan, 28, unpacked the contents of her 'baby box' - which she'd received free from her government at 36 weeks along in her pregnancy The outside of the 'baby box' is decorated with child-appropriate line-drawings that can be colored in She went on to highlight that the box itself doubles as a mini-crib, complete with a mattress Also included are baby clothes, a blanket, towel, wrap, toys, books, two types of thermometers (body and 'bath and room'), toiletries, fitted sheets for the in-box mattress - and even a 'sweet poem' Rachel, who also received a box previously prior to the birth of her first child - now 13 months old - proceeded to explain how the box itself is 'beautifully illustrated' with black outlines of various child-friendly imagery, adding that she thinks 'the whole point is so that the younger family [members] can decorate it for the new arrival. 'But in my case, I actually might go get my coloring pens out and do it myself, because that is just so tempting to color in,' she admitted. She went on to highlight that the box itself doubles as a mini-crib, complete with a mattress. Beyond that, the 'baby box' comes with various instructional manuals including about breastfeeding and 'safe sleep.' Also included are baby clothes, a blanket, towel, wrap, toys, books, two types of thermometers (body and 'bath and room'), toiletries, fitted sheets for the in-box mattress - and even a 'sweet poem.' Over the course of the clip, Jen's expressions wavered between escalating levels of amazement and admiration for the scope of the free provisions, aimed at alleviating stress on new parents and establishing a universal standard for the earliest months of life. All the while, the text '(Cries in American)' floated below Jen's double-screen TikTok. 'Honestly can't believe, we're so lucky to receive something like this. I feel like it should be available everywhere,' Rachel concluded. Many took to the comments to echo Jen's incredulousness at the extent of the products offered in the 'baby box' - particularly as the US government offers nothing Many took to the comments to echo Jen's incredulousness at the extent of the products offered in the 'baby box' - particularly as the US government offers nothing. 'The USA Baby box just contains thoughts and prayers,' bemoaned one. Echoed a second, 'our "baby box" consisted of a $13,000 bill... 'MERICA!!' 'Wow, it's almost like they care about the child after it's born! Amazing!' chimed in a third. '"So every baby has the same start" that is absolutely wonderful,' one gushed of the logic behind the governmental policy. 'Meanwhile in America.. "I know you just gave birth last week, but will you be coming in to your shift tomorrow??"' someone else seethed of the markedly scant maternal leave mandated by the American government. 'The more I learn about other countries, the more I hate it here,' yet another American hissed in envy. Scotland's official website lays out the logic behind providing every new parent with the baby starter pack: 'In Scotland, we believe that parenting is one of the most important jobs in the world With that in mind, we want to make sure that Scotland was the best place in the world to grow up in. 'That's why, in 2017, we launched the Baby Box initiative, which is designed to give every single baby in Scotland an equal start in life,' began a statement explaining the origins of the 'baby box.' An American man has sparked uproar online after his post about the color of Fanta in Italy went viral. The US-based Reddit user, who goes by the name Opposite_Strategy_43, shared a photo of the popular soda to the 'Mildly Interesting' sub-thread. It showed a glass full of Fanta that was pale yellow in color rather than the bright-orange soda American's are used to. He uploaded it alongside a caption that explained how 'Fanta in Italy has no dyes or artificial flavors' - and other social media users soon flooded the comments with their own thoughts. The US-based Reddit user, who goes by the name Opposite_Strategy_43, shared a photo of the popular soda to the 'Mildly Interesting' sub-thread It showed a glass full of Fanta that was pale yellow in color rather than the bright-orange soda American's are used to (stock image) There were close to 2,000 comments left underneath the post on the discussion forum with a whole host of viewpoints on display. 'The first time I saw a Fanta in the US I freaked out,' one Redditor admitted. 'I already didn't like soda in Italy, let alone now that it's fluorescent lol.' 'I'm European and it really is yellow, and from what I've seen, it has a color similar to fresh orange juice. 'However, for some reason the [original poster] has theirs to be more pastel than I think, as I've usually seen that color on Fanta Lemon, not Orange. 'It varies by country,' another chimed in. 'In the UK it's very yellow. In many countries it's orange.' Some who have sampled both said they were shocked by the intense coloring of the US orange Fanta. 'I really thought I would prefer US Fanta when I visited the states, and it was so awful I couldn't even believe it was the same product,' the moaned. They added: 'I have a sweet-tooth but this was just too much.' There were close to 2,000 comments left underneath the post on the discussion forum with a whole host of viewpoints on display Earlier in the year, social media users on each side of the Atlantic clashed on Twitter and Reddit over the fizzy drink and its visible differences in the US compared to the UK One user responded saying the UK equivalent doesn't taste as good as it's European counterparts, joking: 'It tastes like artificial sweetener and sadness here.' Fanta is an American-owned German brand, known for their fruit-flavored carbonated soft drinks. The iconic orange color is it's most well known flavor - although there's been heavy debate over which country has the best tasting Fanta. Earlier in the year, social media users on each side of the Atlantic clashed on Twitter and Reddit over the fizzy drink and its visible differences in the US compared to the UK. According to the websites for Fanta in the UK and the US, there are several differences in the ingredients of each product. The most significant is that the UK version contains orange juice from concentrate, whereas the US version does not. Another key difference is the sugar content - the UK product's sugar content was cut before the 'sugar tax.' The tax placed a levy on soft drinks with a sugar content higher than 5g per 100ml. Jack Osbourne has insisted that father Ozzy will perform live again despite his long recovery from a 'life-changing' fourth surgery, DailyMail.com can exclusively reveal. The rocker, 74, was forced to pull out of his live comeback performance at the Power Trip music festival earlier this year and was seen walking with the support of a cane in recent months. Ozzy was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2003 before publicly revealing his diagnosis in January 2020, and suffering an accident. But his son has claimed he will soon be making a return. Jack Osbourne has insisted that father Ozzy (pictured in September) will perform live again despite his long recovery from a 'life-changing' fourth surgery Speaking to DailyMail.com about whether his famous father would give it 'one more go,' Jack revealed: 'He definitely is going to do a show' It comes as Jack, 37, discussed his time on Fox's boot camp reality show Special Forces: World's Toughest Test alongside Kelly Rizzo. Speaking to DailyMail.com about whether or not his famous father would give it 'one more go,' Jack revealed: 'He definitely is going to do a show. 'He had a surgery a couple months ago and it took a way longer time to recover than they were hoping. 'The whole point of that surgery was going to be like, "do the surgery and then you'll do Power Trip, you'll be good." 'But he had a hard time recovering from it, and so that's why they had to pull out a Power Trip. 'I can see him doing the odd show here and there in the future, just not this year.' Jack himself has been keeping busy with a slew of other projects including his stint on Special Forces: World's Toughest Test. The program sees 16 celebrities tackle grueling training exercises in some of the harshest environments. The rocker, 74, was forced to pull out of the his live comeback performance at the Power Trip festival earlier this year Ozzy was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2003, before publicly revealing his diagnosis in January 2020, and suffering an accident. He's seen here walking with a cane in September Asked how he thinks his sister and parents would have got on, Jack said: 'They would last about four seconds. Okay. The moment someone yelled at any one of whether my mom, sister or dad, they would've been like, "And I'm out."' Elaborating further on his own experience he said that the heights 'were the least of my worries,' but that the show was a 'total a** kicker.' Jack, who was given just 10 days notice that he would be appearing on the show, said: 'I think as far as a celebrity reality show goes, this by far is the toughest, hardest of those shows. 'I mean Big Brother would seem like a walk in the f***ing park. 'I'd be like, sign me up [to I'm A] Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here, sign me up. Easy days compared to this... the closest thing you could compare this to is jail. 'I'm not just saying that because of how little information you're given, how your life is completely governed by these higher powers, if you will, and you're at their disposal. 'It's like whatever they want to do with you, as long as you're there, you're going to do it.' Jack's Special Forces co-star Kelly Rizzo also revealed: 'I didn't have any fear of the actual challenges. What scared me was the endurance factor and sleeping. How am I going to sleep in a room with this many people? 'Those were the two things that scared me going into it, and also what was easy was I think, kind of, relating to and bonding with a lot of the people and the other recruits. 'There was really no weird, awkward situations. Everyone kind of got along really well.' It comes as Jack (left), 37, discussed his time on Fox's boot camp reality show Special Forces: World's Toughest Test alongside Kelly Rizzo (right) The blogger, 44, whose husband Bob Saget died last year (pictured together previously) was then asked how she hoped to use Special Forces to catapult the rest of her career The blogger, 44, whose husband Bob Saget passed away last year, was then asked how she hoped to use Special Forces to catapult the rest of her career. 'I think that this just taught me a lot of discipline, a lot about myself in terms of my motivation and strength, and so I think just those skills in general are very useful,' she said. 'But I have a podcast coming out called Comfort Food With Kelly Rizzo and a book that I'm working on that's half cookbook, half a memoir and it has to do with Bob as well, so I'm excited for those projects too, and hopefully this just dovetails in nicely.' Speaking about how she has been dealing with the grief following the death of her late husband, Kelly said: 'Really being surrounded by an incredible support system as well as just being grateful for instead of being upset that I didn't get more time - just being grateful for the time that I had - and that's really what's gotten me through it since day one. 'I had one of Bob's really good friends at his funeral I remember looked at me and he goes, "You got robbed. It's not fair. You got robbed." Even from that early on, I'm like, I can't think like that. 'I don't want to think like that because that's just focusing on the negative and I want to focus on the positive.' WARNING - GRAPHIC CONTENT: A woman has laid bare the harrowing details of a savage attack she endured at the hands of her own husband just a month after they were married. Brittany Crowley, from Washington, revealed she was beaten, had part of her ear bitten off and was raped multiple times by 36-year-old Cole Peters whilst she was unconscious. He was found guilty of attempted murder, two counts of rape, felonious restraint, terrorizing and domestic violence causing a serious injury before being sentenced to life in prison without parole. Now, Brittany, 32, is courageously speaking out to raise awareness of domestic violence and to help other survivors. Brittany Crowley (left), from Washington, revealed she was beaten, had her ear bitten off and was raped multiple times by 36-year-old Cole Peters (right) whilst she was unconscious Doctors sewed up her ear and lip before giving her an MRI scan, which showed Brittany had a bleed on the brain and all the blood vessels in her eyes had burst Brittany had known Peters, who lived in North Dakota, since school but it was not until March 2018 that they reconnected on Facebook. The couple began video calling every day and quickly fell in love. Brittany said: 'Even though we lived in different states, I'd never felt so close to anyone. Cole felt like my lucky break.' In November that year, the pair met up in Las Vegas and ended up tying the knot. The newlyweds then took the step to move in together with Brittany claiming: 'Within weeks, Cole started to change.' In December, the pair went to a party but, as soon as they returned home, Peters accused Brittany of flirting with other men. He smashed her phone, pinned her to the floor and shaved off her hair. Brittany explained: 'I tried to stop him but he was furious so I stayed silent. He left me with a horrible buzz cut. Brittany had known Peters, who lived in North Dakota, since school, but it was not until March 2018 that they reconnected on Facebook Peters was found guilty of multiple charges following the savage attack on Brittany, which he carried out after just one month of marriage 'I couldn't help but wonder where my loving husband had gone and what else he was capable of.' Three days later, Peters screamed at a male supermarket worker for getting too close to Brittany during a shopping trip. She revealed: 'I was so embarrassed. Back home, Cole kept muttering: "I'm going to kill her,"' under his breath. 'I was terrified so I went to bed and tried to ignore him. But out of nowhere, he punched me in the face. My tooth punctured my lip and there was blood everywhere.' Brittany hid underneath the bed, but Peters lifted the frame and repeatedly slammed it into her body. Peters then promised not to hurt Brittany anymore so she crawled out of her hiding place only for her new husband to punch her in the head and stomp on her neck. Brittany said: 'He screamed, "prepare to die tonight," and then everything went black. 'Cole shook me awake, only to continue beating me. I lost count of how many times I passed out.' Peters then dragged Brittany into the shower to clean up the blood before raping her. Brittany recalled: 'I was so weak, I couldn't fight back. I thought I was going to die.' The assailant continued to knock Brittany out, until the final time, when she came round to him raping her again. Brittany explained: 'I tried to stop him but he was furious so I stayed silent. He left me with a horrible buzz cut' Peters was arrested and Brittany later travelled to North Dakota for the trial and bravely gave her evidence Peters told her she was going to die before he clamped his teeth around her ear and tore off a chunk of skin. Brittany said: 'He then threatened to chop off my legs. Somehow, I managed to stagger to my feet and race outside to Cole's truck. 'Thankfully, he'd left the keys in the ignition, and I sped away. But I was naked and could barely see because my eyes were swollen shut.' Fortunately, a police officer, who noticed Brittany running a red light, pulled her over. Seeing her battered body, he called an ambulance, which turned up soon after and rushed her to Williston Hospital, North Dakota. There, doctors sewed up her ear and lip before giving her an MRI scan, which showed Brittany had a bleed on the brain and all the blood vessels in her eyes had burst. She said: 'My eyes were swollen shut for days. I couldn't do anything and was kept on sedatives because I was in so much pain.' Brittany spent eight days in hospital before being discharged. She went to live with a friend back in Washington, candidly sharing: 'Over the next few months, my bruises faded, and my hair started to grow back. But I was in pieces.' She is now courageously speaking out to raise awareness of domestic violence and to help other survivors Meanwhile, Peters was arrested but denied the charges. Brittany travelled to North Dakota for the trial and bravely gave her evidence. In October 2021, Peters was found guilty of attempted murder, two counts of rape, felonious restraint, terrorizing and domestic violence causing a serious injury at Williams County District Court. In February 2022, he was sentenced to life in prison without parole. Brittany explained: 'Cole took no responsibility for what happened that night. 'Now, I suffer from night terrors and wake up to my own screams but I'm doing the best I can. I'm a survivor.' She concluded: 'The emotional impact that Cole's attack has had on me is just as bad as the physical effects. 'Most days, I feel numb. But I have to believe that things will get better. 'Domestic violence is an epidemic that needs to be addressed.' Tyson Blatter, from Ohio, said doing the shirt hack would 'waste a bunch of time' A Disney cast member has urged visitors not to boast about their 'free hacks' when they enter Disneyland. Tyson Blatter, from Ohio, spoke out after model Heleni tried to use a tip from TikTok at the theme park in Florida - wearing just a bikini as she entered in order to get a free t-shirt. She claimed staff at the theme park tried to 'force' her to buy a top after she arrived in a black bikini top, brandishing the hack as 'debunked'. However, voice actor Tyson hit out at her video and the hack, stating it was 'lame', giving the viral 'trick' a zero out of ten. In his own TikTok video, he said that using such tricks means they disappear 'for pretty much everyone' - including those who might very well need free items. Disney cast member of five years, Tyson Blatter (pictured) urged visitors not to advertise when something 'magical' happens to them at theme park as a hack for free things. He said the free vouchers are for people who actually need them Model and influencer, Heleni (pictured), tried to get a free t-shirt by entering the park in a barely-there bikini. She redressed into her original black top as she claimed Disneyland staff tried to 'force' her to buy a shirt Heleni did not come up with the hack where visitors adorn non-modest clothing to the family theme park in an attempt to get free Disney merchandise. Mother Amanda DiMeo sparked the trend in a TikTok video that now has 6.2million likes on May 19, 2021. Amanda told viewers that if they wore a top that displayed a bit of skin on entry to the Magic Kingdom, then staff would award them with a ticket for a free top. She gleefully said: 'I just got a $75 t-shirt [for free] because I was wearing a shirt that was exposing my underboob a little bit.' She continued to write about the free item: 'Ok, but it's so cute, and if it's free it's for me. Thank you Disney.' But according to Disney cast member, Tyson, viral hacks broadcast by the likes of DiMeo and Heleni are ruining magical experiences at the family theme park for everyone. He explained that he was not trying to 'bash' or direct 'hate' at any users, but when an individual share these one-time occurrences as 'hacks' it leads to an 'insane' amount of people also trying it. This means in the long-run potential free items stop for everybody, he revealed: 'People get angry when they don't get free shirts, and then they have to get rid of it for everyone.' Amanda DiMeo kicked off the now viral hack, stating that she managed to get a free shirt because her shirt was exposing 'a bit of under boob'. The video has now amassed 31.4 million views He added: 'The real Disney hack here is if something magical happens to you, oh my gosh, please do not advertise it as something that you can get every time.' The hack will only result in an ultimatum between purchasing an appropriate item of clothing or having to leave Disneyland, according to the cast member. The TikToker advised visitors of the theme park to 'bring another shirt', as he stated attempting the ill-informed hack is a waste of time. He stated: 'They can't force you to buy anything, but if you don't want to abide by the rules of this private business they can deny entry. 'So it's just not worth the time.' Revealing why Disney give out the free items, Tyson elaborated that when something bad occurs at the park, Disney try their utmost 'to make up for it'. He said: 'Those little flyers or things that they hand out to people are reserved for people that get like baby throw up on them or like something else that's really bad.' The voice actor continued: 'We want to be able to fix [that] so they can enjoy themselves, not because you want a free shirt.' Disney fans flocked to the comment section to agree with the Disney cast member of five years, stating that it is 'not magic if it always happens!' Onlookers flooded the comments in agreement with the Disney cast member's take, with one writing: 'Its not magic if it always happens!! Thank you for sharing this!' Another added: 'I totally agree with your viewpoint, it can be so frustrating I imagine.' Some expressed concern that the misuse of such 'hacks' would up the prices at the theme park, with one adding: 'Not to mention if they gave everyone a shirt for free, all the prices of everything else would go up to equalise that and everyone would be mad!' Others shared the positive experiences they had with Disney cast members who tried to bring the magic back to their vacations. One commented: 'I got one for a free stuffed animal because someone stepped on my foot and rebroke my toe.' While another said: 'A cast member gave us our first pin to collect for free. Made our whole vacation.' Advertisement For property hunters with limited cash to splash, a quirky houseboat in New York has hit the market for just $250,000. The floating one-bedroom abode - which is also on Airbnb at a rate of $149 per night - is currently docked at a marina close to Rockaway Beach in Queens and around an hour's drive to Manhattan. Photos of the unique structure reveal its eclectic interiors, with everything from fishing rods to surfboards attached to the ceilings, and a hoard of other maritime-themed objects can be seen on display. The property listing on ZeroDown explains that although the boat - called the James Franco - dates from 1968 and 'has some age... the hull is in good shape and it's dry down below.' For property hunters with limited cash to splash, a quirky houseboat in New York has hit the market for just $250,000 The floating one-bedroom abode - which is also on Airbnb at a rate of $149 per night - is currently docked at a marina close to Rockaway Beach in Queens and around an hour's drive to Manhattan Photos of the unique structure reveal its eclectic interiors, with everything from fishing rods to surfboards attached to the ceilings, and a hoard of other maritime-themed objects can be seen on display The property listing on ZeroDown explains that although the boat - called the James Franco - dates from 1968 and 'has some age... the hull is in good shape and it's dry down below' Moving up a deck, there is a bedroom with French doors which open out on to a huge roof deck 'that is perfect for entertaining or to simply soak up the view and gorgeous sunsets' On the lower level the boat serves up a full kitchen, a cozy living room, and a separate sitting room with space for an office. Moving up a deck, there is a bedroom with French doors which open out on to a huge roof deck 'that is perfect for entertaining or to simply soak up the view and gorgeous sunsets.' The listing states that the boat would make for a great 'summer beach pad.' Alternatively, it could be seen as an investment 'for a very profitable Airbnb rental.' The property currently has a 4.68 rating out of 5 on Airbnb. One traveler who stayed there in July wrote: 'We had a lovely time on the houseboat! 'It was very charming, sun soaked, and comfortable to spend time on. It's a short walk / drive to a great surf spot as well.' Another fan added: 'The James Franco is absolutely magical! In terms of location, the listing states that the boat is docked at Marina 59, which is 'open all year round with a few year-round residents' There is currently a wait list for the slip, but the new owner can takeover the rental agreement after purchasing the boat When it comes to local attractions, the boat is two blocks away from a train station and it is 'close to surf breaks, shops and restaurants' The property currently has a 4.68 rating out of 5 on Airbnb. 'I feel so lucky to have experienced the funky decor and vibes of the boat, peaceful environment of the marina and the convenience to the train and the beach - both within a few blocks! 'It's very well priced for such a unique space and perfect for those who are up for an adventure and want to explore New York in a new way.' In terms of location, the sale listing states that the boat is docked at Marina 59, which is 'open all year round with a few year-round residents.' There is currently a wait list for the slip, but the new owner can takeover the rental agreement after purchasing the boat. Although the boat does not move, it can be towed to other marinas. When it comes to local attractions, the boat is two blocks away from a train station and it is 'close to surf breaks, shops and restaurants.' Meanwhile, the bay the boat bobs on makes for a top boating and fishing spot. A British woman who owns an XL bully dog has urged other owners to 'get out there' and show their dog is safe as 'now is not the time to hide'. Sophie Coulthard, 39, who goes by Training Billy the Bully on social media, has a one-year-old dog called Billy who 'loves cuddles' and has never growled. The owner, an 'advocate' for the breed, has received an influx of messages from other XL Bully dog owners who are too scared to walk their dogs. Despite admitting a stream of negative experiences since the announcement, she has urged owners to get outside and show the world what 'responsible owners look like'. The video, which has amassed two million views, has fuelled an intense debate online. While some agree that all dogs are 'entitled to a walk', others are taking a more stringent stance and liken Billy to a crocodile on leash. Sophie Coulthard, 39, (pictured) has taken to TikTok to urge XL Bully dog owners that 'now is not the time to hide' Sophie told viewers: 'XL Bully owners, you have to get out there. There are people messaging me saying they're too scared to walk their dogs, that they're walking their dogs at five in the morning because they're worried about negative comments. 'I will admit that it feels like I'm in a goldfish bowl at the moment, and I'm sure a lot of you feel the same way. 'I feel like everyone's looking at him. I feel like people are nudging their partners. I feel like people are taking wide births with their children.' She continued: 'You can't be scared because we need to be getting out there and showing the world what responsible bully owners look like. The pair had just visited the park where Billy was on a flexi lead. She urged owners to: 'Wear a training pouch, take food, take a toy, do training with your dog, so people can see what you're doing.' She concluded: 'Go and prove to people how good your dog is because this is what we need right now. 'We all know how amazing these dogs are, we just need to prove it.' The owner claimed to receive support from members of the public while demonstrating Billy's training. Others follow suit in the comment section, however, many are unable to consider effective training as grounds to stop the ban on the breed. The woman has urged viewers to show the country what a responsible XL Bully dog owner looks like One user said: 'All dogs are entitled to a walk.' A second agreed and simply put: '#dontbullymybreed' However, many others chimed in with a negative take. One said: 'They all think theyre responsible owners until responsible is not having one.' Another wrote: 'If you could trust him off lead and he had bulletproof recall, he would be an amazingly trained dog. but there's a reason he's on a flexi lead.' Another said: 'Great fun...UNTIL ITS NOT!!' She previously told how her XL Bully loved 'cuddles' and said those using the dogs for 'status' and 'protection' would just find another breed if they were banned. She said: 'I genuinely believed this is being turned into a moral panic. 'Retired dog experts have been using this language - "devil dogs", "franken-bully" and "tiger on a lead". 'All that is doing is scaring the general public into putting pressure into a knee-jerk reaction. 'You are going to have responsible owners like me who are unfairly targeted for the type of dog that I have, while dog attacks across all breeds are up at the moment.' She added: 'If we've learned anything from the Dangerous Dog Act, it's that banning by type doesn't work. 'The people who are breeding irresponsibly and owning irresponsibly will just move onto another breed.' But Ms Coulthard said those using the dogs for 'status' and 'protection' would just find another breed if they were banned Ms Coulthard said she decided to get an XL Bully dog after seeking a dog that was both capable of going on hikes and could live in her London apartment. She felt the US breed, which is a mixture of the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Bulldog and English Bulldog, would suit her lifestyle perfectly. Ms Coulthard, who films videos about her dog on her TikTok profile 'Training Billy the Bully', said he'd never growled but she had worked hard to set boundaries for him. She says 'a moral panic' had arisen around the powerful breed of bulldog following several high-profile attacks on youngsters. And she warned against 'knee-jerk' changes to the law banning the breed - saying irresponsible owners should be at the forefront of new legislation. And she didn't recognize the characterisation of XL Bullies as naturally violent animals, adding that her pooch was the ideal 'family companion'. She said: 'We looked at a Staffordshire Bull Terrie originally, but they tend to have quite little legs. 'Then we ran into someone with an American bully, and thought "this is like a Staff but slightly bigger". 'Billy is your classic couch potato. If I take him to the park he loves to run around, but he's always on a lead. He loves to play. He's like any kind of happy-go-lucky dog. 'He's massively affectionate. He will literally lie on his back and demand that you stroke him all day, he's really soft. 'He is exactly what we wanted, which is a family companion dog. He has never growled or ever shown even a hint of aggression. 'But I've always been conscious of teaching him 'impulse control' and putting things in place to make sure he has a happy life, but with boundaries.' Ms Coulthard said she'd felt 'stressed' following calls to outlaw the breed, and said it was important that new legislation was drafted that introduced licences for owners. It comes after Rishi Sunak was urged over the weekend to consider a general cull of all American XL bullies over fears that faster action was needed to combat the 'killer dogs'. The video, which amassed two millions views, has received a mixed reaction. While some have commented in solidarity, others think owning an XL Bully dog is irresponsible The call from a senior Tory MP came after the Government announced a ban on the breed last week, but with an amnesty for existing owners as long as their pets were registered, neutered and muzzled when in public. Government officials stressed yesterday that by requiring all owners to get their bully dogs neutered, the breed would simply die out. However, Sir Robert Goodwill, chairman of the Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee, said Ministers may have to act more quickly. He told The Mail on Sunday: 'These dogs live well over 12 years and we can't wait a decade to remove this threat. MAULED TO DEATH: Ian Price, 52, who was killed by these suspected XL bullies (pictured below) in Staffordshire on Thursday American XL Bully dogs will be banned in the UK by the end of the year 'Imagine if you are living next door to someone with one of these dogs and you have young children. 'Yes, it would be muzzled when the owner takes it out. But would you want one of these killer dogs next door for the next decade?' On Friday, the Prime Minister branded XL bully dogs a 'danger to our communities' and vowed to bring in rules by the end of the year under the Dangerous Dogs Act to ban them. It came after a horrific incident 24 hours earlier when father-of-two Ian Price, 52, was mauled to death in a frenzied attack by two suspected bullies. Days before, Ana Paun, 11, was hurt by an American bully a type linked to ten deaths since 2021. Environment Secretary Therese Coffey is to convene a meeting with experts to define the XL breed, which is said to have originated in the US in the 1980s when American pitbull terriers were crossed with Staffordshire terriers. But Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss said earlier this week that there would be an amnesty for existing owners. She told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'People that have these dogs and some will be well socialised, well managed, well trained you will need to register and take actions. Your dog will need to be neutered muzzled when out in public and on a lead and insured. If you comply you will be able to keep your dog.' News and commentary on organized crime, street crime, white collar crime, cyber crime, sex crime, crime fiction, crime prevention, espionage and terrorism. For almost a quarter of a century Ive been writing about beauty, so one might assume that I deploy all the high-tech, age-defying lotions and potions at my manicured fingertips. Not so. Until now, theres been one fiendishly popular powerhouse that Ive stalwartly resisted retinoids. These are vitamin A compounds that work by speeding up cell turnover, regulating the rate at which new collagen and elastin are generated, and more besides with famously complexion-enhancing results. Using them has become a nightly ritual for legions of youth-seekers. However, there are others who, like me, have been just too wary. My own aversion to retinol was based on the products that came out in the late 1990s: abrasive formulas provoking rawness and redness. Retinoids are vitamin A compounds that work by speeding up cell turnover, regulating the rate at which new collagen and elastin are generated, and more besides with famously complexion-enhancing results Did I want to traumatise my complexion into spring chicken-ishness? I did not. Three things have conspired to change my mind. The first is that, aged 52, sun protection and good genes no longer seem quite enough. Second, I consulted a group of NHS dermatologists. Not only did they recommend retinol, all of them use it, whatever their gender, age, or the state of their skin. Thirdly, I met Professor Matthias Aust, 47, a plastic surgeon specialising in skin regeneration, publisher of learned articles and winner of multiple awards. He has just been announced as the skincare company Environs medical consultant. Environ was one of the vitamin A pioneers, with retinoids its cornerstone for three decades. Everything you say is right, Professor Aust observes when I tell him about my reluctance. Vitamin A comes in different forms. The acid and retinol modes can be aggressive in terms of complications such as hyperpigmentation and photosensitivity. He recommends that everyone opts for ester forms, meaning fat-soluble. These are supersafe and represent more than 90 per cent of the vitamin A in our skin. Professor Matthias Aust, a plastic surgeon specialising in skin regeneration, says retinoids protect and regenerate the complexion Its not an antagonist to your complexion, but a bonus; a protector and regenerator. And its the basis of all Environs retinoids. As with all retinols, you must also build up your tolerance. Environ doesnt talk about percentages of vitamin A, as given the different forms with different molecular weights you may not be comparing like with like. Instead, it has what it calls a step-up system from 1 to 5 you start with a low concentration and the skin gets used to it (just as, when you work out at the gym, your body gets used to the weights). After two bottles of your initial treatment, you step up to a higher concentration. The professor himself is a 5 man, following his decades of devoted use (but this is not a one-size-fits all approach). As infants, our skin naturally has strong supplies of Vitamin A, but that diminishes as we age. Hormones also reduce it, making our need for Vitamin A all the more acute around the menopause. A novice such as myself should start with the brands basic Environ Skin EssentiA AVST-1 (55) or its more luxurious Environ Youth EssentiA C-Quence Serum 1 (100), mixed with Environ Antioxidant Defence Creme (74, all available at harveynichols.com). When she started using Environ retinoid products, Hannah experienced no negative reaction at all. Rather, she achieved a glowing complexion Use this entry-level step morning and night, sparingly at first, and play it by ear, or rather by eye/feel: dont use after exfoliating, and lavish on moisture before or after, or before and after (the sandwich method). Personally, I experienced no negative reaction, merely a pleasingly blooming complexion. Budget options include The Inkey List Retinol Serum (from 12.99, boots.com). Use at night, initially once a week, followed by moisturiser and/or oil to combat age spots and fine lines. Spotty-skinned friends speak lovingly about CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum For Blemish-prone Skin (20.99, superdrug.com) combatting acne and acne scars and making faces gleam. While my NHS dermatologist allies use The Ordinary Retinols increasing from 0.2 per cent via 0.5 per cent to 1 per cent a total bargain from 6.90 to 7.90 at boots.com. Just go easy, watch out for any reaction and lavish on SPF50 the following day. With care, you should start to see a plumper, younger-looking complexion in about six weeks and that legendary retinol glow. RACE YOU TO IT Michael Van Clarke Eureka Blowdry Balm New and selling up a storm, Michael Van Clarke Eureka Blowdry Balm (19.50, vanclarke.com) is the perfect post-summer de-puffer for parched hair. Used on wet or dry locks, a couple of squirts negates frizz, enhances shine, replenishes moisture, repairs bonds and protects from heat while lending body and swing. Shop MY ICON OF THE WEEK Angela Rippon Angela Rippon, 78, loves Vaseline as a moisturiser, hand cream and foot softener The Strictly contestant, 78, is a beauty buff who wears SPF40 and a hat to protect her face. She loves Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser (now 15.72), Clarins Soothing After Sun Balm (22.10), and Vaseline (from 1.80, all boots.com) as a moisturiser, hand cream and foot softener. POST-SUMMER BODY TREATS This Works Skin Deep Dry Leg Oil (44 for 150ml, thisworks.com) This botanical classic smells so sublime I slather it all over. Shop CeraVe SA Smoothing Cream with Salicylic Acid (from 15, boots.com) Gently exfoliates via salicylic and lactic acids to slough off summer debris. It is also fragrance-free. Shop Vaseline Intensive Care Advanced Repair Body Lotion (5.99 for 400ml, superdrug.com) Non-sticky, budget brilliance defeats dryness in five days. Shop NudeStix NudeBody Peptide Body Creme (29 for 240ml, lookfantastic.com) A lavender and bergamot dream, exfoliating as it softens for skin with a radiant gleam. Shop Aveeno Skin Relief Body Oil Spray (9.29 for 200ml, boots.com) Even the laziest groomers can spritz on this fast-absorbing cure-all for very dry skin. Shop COSMETIC CRAVING A bakery has won thousands of fans after an unhappy customer's bad birthday cake review went viral. The woman posted a photograph of the back of a $100(aud) skating-themed birthday cake slamming the business, 'The Whisk Studio', and warning her friends to 'avoid'. But the cakers were having none of the negativity and took a screenshot of the post before sharing it on their own page. 'There is currently a post circulating on social media about a cake we recently made that a customer was unhappy about,' a member of the team wrote. 'Please note the picture circulating is a photo of THE BACK of the cake and not a good representation of the situation at all. The photo is highlighting the back of a 2D topper not being painted. (This is not standard practice for us).' The bakery's staff said they had responded to the complaint immediately but not heard back from the 'Karen'. The customer promised to get the business bashed on social media if they didn't give a refund 'The cake was served. And a full refund was demanded, threatening 'social media bashing' if that did not happen. We felt that was not reasonable and gave a 30% refund,' they claimed. 'This has now resulted in posting negatively about our business all over social media without providing the full context. This is very damaging to our small business. We are but two mums doing our best to make every cake an exceptional one.' They said they aren't ashamed of complaints and take them all seriously. 'We believe we followed the brief and delivered what was promised.' The team's response to the social media 'bashing' was complimented by thousands of new fans. 'Handled with transparency and class! New follower here in Texas,' one woman wrote. 'New follower from a very small town in Ohio USA. Your cakes look fantastic to me. Showing the backside of the cake was very childish on their part. It looks like it is backfiring on them.' 'Looks like I found who will make my two year old's birthday cake this year,' said another. Others slammed the woman who complained. 'Some people dont want a solution, just a reason to complain. The back to me isnt very important. It looks good,' one woman said. 'Sounds like she is the type of woman to keep the tags on for an event then return the clothes,' said another. Over a thousand people have commented on the company's post. An image of the front of the cake was not shared. The bakery is located in South Africa. Coles has raised the price of milk by 10cents a litre Coles has raised the price of milk by 10cents a litre sparking outrage from Aussie families struggling with the cost of living. The updated pricing means three-litre cartons now cost $4.80. Two-litre cartons are priced at $3.30, while one-litre bottles are available for $1.70. Three-litre Coles brand milk has gone up by 80 cents in slightly more than a year, representing an overall price jump of 20 per cent. Woolworths has not changed the price of its milk - with its bottles 10 cents cheaper than its competitor. A Coles spokesman confirmed the price rise to Daily Mail Australia. Coles milk products have increased by 10 cents per litre 'We have reluctantly raised the price of Coles Own Brand milk by 10 cents a litre due to ongoing cost increases in the supply chain,' he said. 'We don't take the decision to raise prices lightly, particularly because of the increased cost-of-living pressures faced by our customers.' But many Aussies were not impressed after a customer noticed the price rise in store. 'Milk's gone up again,' one wrote on Facebook. Another said: 'It doesn't seem like that long ago it was $3.' A third added: 'Soon be cheap to own a cow.' One said they hoped the price markup was going 'straight to the farmers'. 'Yep, noticed this yesterday. There is no end to it, won't be happy till we can't afford the basic necessities while they take billions,' another wrote. A second added: 'Another sneaky 30 cent rise.' Just last week - the price of a 3litre bottle of milk was $4.50 The one and two-litre Coles milk options have also seen a price hike of 10 cents per litre. Others said it was yet another blow for families as the cost of living crisis continued. 'For people with one-year-olds, it will be cheaper to keep them on formula than change to real milk,' one said. Another commented: 'Yep. And we, I mean, my kids, go through 12L per week!' Others said they'd be happy to pay more if the extra 10 cents per litre was guaranteed to go to the dairy farmers who produced it. 'As long as it goes to the dairy farmers. They work so hard to bring milk to our door. I don't have a problem,' one responded. Another said: 'Let's hope the farmers get the extra money that we are paying.' The Duchess of Cambridge is not expected to attend the event in Singapore The Princess of Wales will not travel to South East Asia in November for the final of The Earthshot Prize, according to reports. Despite previous speculation suggesting the contrary, Kate Middleton, 41, 'is not expected to accompany' William, 41, to Singapore, the destination of the third annual awards ceremony for the Prince's environmental prize, says the Telegraph. William founded the awards in 2020, saying he wanted to turn 'current pessimism surrounding environmental issues into optimism by celebrating the people and places driving change. Every year between 2021 and 2030, an awards ceremony will honour winners in the prize's five categories who are creating innovations which tackle environmental issues. Each winner is given 1million to support and scale their work. Following the Wales' decision not to undertake a foreign tour this year, Kate's presence is not to be expected, it is believed, and so she will not attend the ceremony which is also set to feature performances by world-renowned musicians and artists. The Princess of Wales (pictured) is not expected to attend the Earthshot Prize award ceremony in Singapore, according to the Telegraph No specific reason has been confirmed for why Kate is not expected to attend, but some have speculated that it may be due to her parenting duties. It marks a change from last year, when Kate travelled to Boston for the ceremony. The royal presented an award, while donning a rented lime green Solace London dress from fashion platform HURR. The Sabrina frock, by Solace London, cost 74 a night to rent. It was described by the platform as a 'floor length modern gown featuring an exaggerated neckline'. It boasted a 'body conscious fit', and a concealed closure belt to define the waist, as well as the brand's signature high kick split. She accessorised the look with an emerald choker that had previously been worn by Princess Diana. The necklace, which was gifted to Queen Mary in 1911 by the Ladies of India, was given to Diana by Queen Elizabeth, on lifetime loan. Before guests arrived at the gala, they were reportedly given eco-friendly advice and rules to follow, with attendees encouraged to 'consider their clothing' for the occasion and opt for ensembles that can be re-used or have already been purchased second-hand. The exact reasoning why Kate is not attending the event with William (right) is not yet known, however it could be a result of parental duties Kate donned a green floor length stretch crepe knit gown hired from rental platform HURR as attended the event with her husband Prince William last year Travel plans for guests were also given environmental updates: with all transportation being used with Boston being electric or hybrid and any 'unavoidable' flights that were taken have been 'recorded and the CO2e impacts calculated and balanced'. Upon their arrival at the event, it is thought that guests were treated to a host of ecologically-minded measures, from the plant-focused decor to the vegan and vegetarian-only catering options. Instead of a red carpet for the stars to walk down, a green carpet was used - and it was recycled afterwards. The entryway and the event itself featured over three acres of plants, including New England-grown evergreen and deciduous trees- all native and grown locally, according to Earthshot's new CEO Hannah Jones, formerly Nikes first chief sustainability officer. The stars hotel were also walking distance from the venue and everyone was encouraged to either use the tram or take a fleet of electrically-powered and hybrid taxis. As part of her 'green' outfit at last year's ceremony, Kate (right) donned a green and diamond emerald choker once owned by her mother-in-law Diana, Princess of Wales (left) Last year, guests were encouraged to opt for more eco-friendly choices when it came to their outfits, from renting or rewearing clothing, instead of buying something new Even the make-up used was largely vegan and certified cruelty-free, while the food being served to stars and crew was plant-based - and there is a ban on single-used plastics. Announcing the destination of the Earthshot Prize ceremony in May this year, Prince William said: 'The Earthshot Prize is all about showing the world that solutions to some of the biggest environmental challenges we face are out there. 'After two years of discovering impactful ideas and innovations, I am delighted that The Earthshot Prize is travelling to Singapore, where the ground-breaking solutions of our 2023 Finalists will be celebrated.' William has said that Earthshot was inspired by John F Kennedy's Moonshot programme which challenged America to put man on the moon and helped launch the Moon landing in 1969. Last year's winners included a British start-up, Notpla, which uses seaweed to make packaging. An American woman living in London has revealed the English customs that may astound American, from our lemonade to our unhealthy obsession with panel shows. Andrea Celeste, who originally hails from California, has garnered an following of around 186,400 broadcasting her 18-part series about the baffling things we Brits do. Over the course of these videos, she has given advice to potential American expats on what to expect from British life when they venture across the pond, having lived in Britain for eight years herself. In her ninth installment she discussed our strange lemonade habits, an unhealthy obsession with panel shows - and surprising similarity we share with our American cousins. In the video, which now has around 1.3 million views, the TikToker lounges candidly in a bedroom with a Starbucks to hand. Andrea Celeste (pictured) has been guiding American's on the do's and dont's of living in England, after spending the last eight years here Gazing directly into the camera, the Californian ploughs straight ahead, explaining the first of many strange British customs. First on the list is lemonade. Andrea elaborated: 'If you order lemonade at a restaurant in England you will get a carbonated lemon flavored drink. 'In the US you would get what Brits call cloudy lemonade, which is the sugary lemony drink that isn't carbonated.' Commonly, in the UK and Australia if you order a glass of cold lemonade you are going to be handed a carbonated fizzy drink. But this is not the case for American who tend to serve traditional, non-fizzy lemonade on stands to make some extra cash during the summer months. Americans in the comments were bemused, with one writing: 'I'd be so disappointed if I asked lemonade and got lemon seltzer instead.' Another maintained the US' reign in the fizzy drink category, commenting: 'American lemonade is superior and I'll die on that hill.' Another difference the American expat cited was Britain's obsession with chocolate eggs during Easter celebrations. She told viewers that American's have an affinity for chocolate shaped bunnies rather than eggs. Disappointed some US treats were still not commonplace, Andrea added: 'Also peeps haven't made their way into England yet but I am hoping they do soon.' The Californian noted Brits' obsession with panel shows that tend to host a similar roster of comedians. She also advised Americans on how British lemonade tends to be carbonated, unlike the sweet drink they are used to However not everyone was a fan of the American candy, with one writing: ' I had peeps for the first time this Easter. It was abundantly clear why they haven't made it to the UK.' A person stated: 'My dad sent me peeps when he lived in the US and they were disgustingly sweet. I had to throw them away.' But we are not only different in what we eat and drink or how we celebrate religious events, according to the influencer - we are also fairly divergent in our broadcasting habits. Andrea shared in a video which now has around 127,800 likes that although Americans have panel shows, the obsession is nowhere close to that of Britons. She said: 'Panel shows are everywhere on TV in England. They usually have a lot of the same comedians going on different panel shows like 8 Out of 10 Cats, QI and Would I Lie to you.' The Californian also noted an additional TV habit that differs from across the Atlantic Ocean - watershed. In the UK, we have watershed, which material that is deemed unsuitable for children is not to be broadcast between 9pm and 5.30am. Elaborating on the broadcasting rule, Andrea said: 'If you are interested in what that means look up Naked Attraction.' Some were left shocked that the US did not have watershed, stating: 'Wait does the US not have watershed?! That's insane.' While another replied: 'We do it's just more restrictive in what can be aired unless you pay for it. There just isn't a general term for it.' The USA does not have watershed, however they do federal law which places restrictions and bans on certain content being broadcast. All obscene content is prohibited from being broadcast under US federal law, however profane or indecent content is only to be shown between 10pm and 6am. Profane content is detailed as 'grossly offensive' language, while indecent is material defined as displaying 'sexual or excretory organs or activities in a way that is patently offensive.' 540 people took to the comments to debate the cultural differences between the two countries on either side of the Atlantic, many were shocked by the carbonization English lemonade, while others wanted to give a car boot sale a go But the US and UK also have some similarities when it comes to how we get rid of our old tatt, according to Andrea. She told viewers: 'In England instead of garage sales you find car boot sales it is the same concept but on a field selling things from your car boot or a truck.' The TikToker explained whilst she had seen both akin selling methods in the two countries, car boot sales were more popular in the UK, whilst garage sales are more commonplace in the land of the free. One person residing in Britain reasoned: 'It's only because most houses don't have garages here.' While another added: 'The car boot sale looks fun!' The Princess of Wales was in the captain's seat on her visit to a Royal Navy air base this afternoon as she tried her hand at a helicopter's flight simulator. Kate, 41, donned a 549 black blazer from Holland Cooper which she has worn previously, with gold button detailing, paired with trousers and 650 black pumps with a thick heel from Gianvito Rossi as she visited the Royal Navy Air Station in Yeovilton. The princess, who is commodore-in-chief of the Fleet Air Arm as of last month, styled her long, thick brunette locks in bouncy blow-dried waves, with her new 70s-style fringe framing her face perfectly. Showcasing her natural beauty, the mother-of-three kept make-up simple with a touch of blush, a nude lip and a bronze eye and she accessorised with white topaz Kiki McDonough teardrop earrings. While visiting an aircraft hangar, Kate fell about laughing while trying on an emergency lifejacket and inflating it as she wore it around her neck. Elsewhere in her visit, she chatted with personnel in the air traffic control tower, before having the opportunity to trial the flight simulator. The Princess of Wales sat in a training version of a Royal Navy Wildcat helicopter on her visit, where she took part in a flight simulator The Princess looked apprehensive after a lifejacket inflated much more quickly than she had expected it to The Princess of Wales, 41, looked ready for business as she arrived at RNAS Yeovilton this morning in a black blazer and trousers Pictured trying on an inconspicuous-looking camouflage lifejacket, the Princess beamed but looked a little apprehensive as she prepared to inflate the device. As she pulled on the toggle, she closed her eyes and winced as the device inflated quickly and with force, just as it would in an emergency situation. Appearing a little taken aback by the fast inflation, Princess Kate burst into a fit of giggles, before staff aided her in removing the lifejacket. After the exercise, Louise Evans-Hughes, a leading survival equipment technician, revealed she knew exactly what was going to happen the moment the lifejacket inflated. She said: 'I told the princess there might be a bit of a bang because sometimes when the Velcro rips open there is a bit of a noise. 'I think that was why she was a bit apprehensive to pull it. As soon as she pulled it, it inflated. 'I gave the princess the option whether she wanted to put it on or whether one of my colleagues would put it on. 'I didn't know if she would or not, but it was really nice that she got hands-on and got really engaged in what we do and making the kit work.' Describing the princess's reaction to the lifejacket inflating, she said: 'I see it a lot when we train the air crew pilots so it's something that I see all the time so I knew what was going to happen and it was quite nice to watch her face. The Princess is pictured stepping out of the Merlin MkII helicopter during her visit to the naval air station Kate alighted the helicopter with ease and grace as she touched down on the ground The princess is pictured sitting inside the cockpit of the Merlin Mk II Helicopter During her visit, the mother-of-three helped to load a training Sea Venom anti ship missile onto the Wildcat helicopter The Princess looked impressed by the state-of-the-art equipment on board the helicopter 'I think afterwards she said it was quite snug and didn't realise how big it was going to go and I quickly let some air out so she wouldn't be uncomfortable.' The 32-year-old servicewoman, who is originally from Bath, said Kate is the first member of the royal family she has met. 'The princess was really engaged, really excited and asking loads of questions, which is quite nice,' she said. '(I) Think, for me, every day that you become a bit immune to what you do. It's nice to be remembered and some of the things that you're doing.' She said she did not have any nerves until seconds before she was introduced to Kate. 'It sort of just hit me. I was thinking about saying 'Good morning, Ma'am' but she was just so engaging and lovely, as soon as she started talking to me I was really put at ease.' Upon arrival at the naval base, the princess was pictured shaking hands with workers in the tower, where staff work hard to ensure the safe operation of RNAS Yeovilton. The Princess couldn't help but giggle as she inflated a lifejacket while visiting a hangar at the base The Princess fell about laughing while testing out the lifejacket, pulling on the toggle to inflate it Kate chatted with personnel in the hangar as she learnt about how they ensure the running of the naval base is safe and smooth A staff member came to the Princess's aid with the inflated lifejacket to help her remove it As Princess Kate demonstrated the lifejacket, she looked a little restricted in her movements Kate appeared a little taken aback by the speed and force with which the lifejacket inflated, while staff watched on to make sure she was doing so safely Kate beamed but looked a little apprehensive before pulling the toggle to inflate the lifejacket An officer with the surname Evans-Hughes demonstrated how to pull the toggle on the lifejacket before Kate gave it a go herself Personnel at the base instructed the princess on how best to put on the lifejacket before she inflated it Princess Kate put her arms in the camouflage lifejacket which looked inconspicuous before it was inflated The mother-of-three wore her thick brunette locks down and in bouncy curls Kate couldn't help but let out a giggle as she prepared to don the lifejacket and test it out An officer led the princess to a station where she would try on a lifejacket The Princess of Wales arrived in a hangar on the base where she took a look at some of the models of aircraft The Princess was pictured chatting with members of the air traffic control in her visit to the tower earlier today The royal mother-of-three appeared in high spirits as she spoke with members of staff at the base today For the first stop on her visit to the Royal Navy Air Base, the Princess was pictured wearing a headset in the air traffic control tower Kate wears head phones as she talks to the crew of a Royal Navy wildcat helicopter from the control tower during her visit to Royal Naval Air Station The princess visited the cockpit of an aircraft where she appeared deep in conversation with a pilot about the inner workings of the aircraft While there, she had the chance to communicate with the crew members onboard an airborne Wildcat flight. Footage from within the tower showed the princess concentrating on the landing strip outside while wearing a headset. She was accompanied by an officer who was communicating with the airborne crews. She also heard the roar of an F-35B Lightning from RAF Marham as it 'buzzed' the control tower. For the final leg of her visit, the princess visited the Wildcat training centre and assisted the crews who were being trained to load the anti-shipping Sea Venom missile on to the Wildcat Mk2 helicopter. Kate then tried her hand at flying a Wildcat Mk2 in a simulator, which allows air crew to practise flying over land or on to ships. The maritime attack helicopter is designed to operate from the frigates and destroyers of the Royal Navy. The King went to the air station for helicopter flying training in 1974, when he was Prince of Wales. More than 4,000 personnel are employed on the site, which is home to a number of frontline squadrons and training units. Princess Kate, a mother of three, donned block navy heels to match her elegant outfit, layering the blazer over a white top After a morning of gloomy weather the sun came out for the princess, who is commodore-in-chief of the Fleet Air Arm Captain Duncan Thomas, RNAS Yeovilton's commanding officer, said afterwards: 'I am delighted and privileged to have welcomed the Princess of Wales to the Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton, at the start of what I am sure will be a long and rewarding relationship in her capacity as Commodore-in-Chief of the Fleet Air Arm. 'We've all been hugely excited by this opportunity and I am delighted that Her Royal Highness will be able to support and inspire our exceptionally talented sailors, air crew and wider workforce family for years to come.' Last month, the King appointed Princess Kate as commodore-in-chief of the Fleet Air Arm, a position previously held by Prince Andrew. Her solo visit comes as her husband, Prince William, prepares to fly to New York later this afternoon where he has a busy week of engagements in New York Climate Week, ahead of events surrounding this year's Earthshot Prize. After landing in Newark Airport in the city this evening, the Prince of Wales, 41, will visit the Billion Oyster Project, which is running an initiative to restore oyster reefs in the New York Harbour. The project collaborates with local schools and brings in pupils to solve the challenges faced in the battle for climate conservation. Following this visit, the Prince will head to the UN General Assembly where he is due to meet with Antonio Guterres, the UN Secretary General. Tomorrow, William will attend the Earthshot Prize Innovation Summit ahead of this year's Earthshot Prize ceremony, which will take place in November. The medication gave her stomach ulcers and she vomited for months on end She suffered a minor car accident at 18 and had to take pain medication A 24-year-old woman who was forced to wear dentures after she lost her teeth has finally gotten a permanent set of teeth. Natalie Lacasse, from Vancouver, has been wearing dentures since the age of 19 - after a months-long vomiting condition sparked by pain medication caused her teeth to slowly rot and fall out. After struggling with shame and embarrassment over her teeth - which she hid with dentures for years - Natalie has now finally had her smile restored after raising close to $10,000 online to fund a new permanent set of teeth. 'I still have a long road ahead but after two very long years stuck without teeth, now finally having teeth again is surreal,' said the content creator. Natalie Lacasse, 24, lived without teeth for two years and wore dentures instead. She has finally gotten a permanent set of teeth that have her smiling confidently Despite the mental toll that having no teeth had on her, the Vancouver native was determined to normalize wearing it and posted her journey on TikTok 'I still have a long road ahead but after two very long years stuck without teeth, now finally having teeth again is surreal,' said the content creator 'It is so weird! I didn't realize how big this was truly going to be for me. 'The moment the mirror was handed to me [to look at the results], I saw myself with actual teeth. 'As I sat in the chair and saw my new smile, the way they fit so well, it felt so crazy, I feel so confident. 'I suppressed a lot of my situation over the years, after spending the first year with a denture depressed, crying every day. 'I started to suppress and shrug it off, I didn't realize the gravity of the last few years until I saw my smile again.' Natalie's struggles with her teeth began when she was just 18 years old and found herself involved in a minor car accident that required a prescription for pain relief medication. However, the medication gave her stomach ulcers and caused her to vomit for months - which ultimately made her teeth turn brittle and rot. Natalie first found out she had stomach ulcers a few months after the crash, which happened in February 2017, and was immediately told to stop taking the medication she had been prescribed. 'They said to stop as it can have the side effect of stomach ulcers based on usage and dosage,' she said. However, that didn't stop the vomiting. Without her dentures (L) Natalie didn't have any top teeth. Now with her permanent teeth (R) she can't help but show off her huge smile and new-found confidence 'I started to suppress and shrug it off, I didn't realize the gravity of the last few years until I saw my smile again,' said Natalie when recalling her teeth journey 'By June the vomiting was so frequent, I had travel-sized toothbrushes and toothpaste in my car and at work so I could brush after being sick,' she recalled. Natalie then started vomiting up blood. 'That was when I realized I could no longer hide from doctors, and we found out the severity of my stomach ulcers was much worse than we thought,' she said. 'They found a tear in my esophagus from getting sick so much, and ulcers lining my stomach, my digestive health was a wreck. 'To cure it I was put on 18 medications a day to heal and fix my stomach.' By October, she realized there was also something wrong with her teeth. 'My teeth were becoming almost transparent they were very thin and brittle,' Natalie said. 'Then one day I went to take a sip out of my coffee mug but bumped it into my upper lip, which caused my front tooth to break and fall out of my mouth. 'This is when I realized the state of my teeth wasn't just transparently thin, they lost all the enamel. 'I suppressed a lot of my situation over the years, after spending the first year with a denture depressed, crying every day,' she recalled Natalie openly shared her teeth journey online and grew a following of 19,500 followers on TikTok, and was able to raise $9,909 for a set of permanent teeth thanks to her GoFundMe 'I rushed to the dentist and found out the effects of brushing my teeth after being sick. 'It turns out it isn't the right thing to do, and I was brushing stomach acid and vomit into my teeth. 'I completely obliterated all the enamel from brushing after being sick.' Aged just 19, the only option was for the teen to have them taken out. Due to the price of the procedure, Natalie could only remove a few teeth at a time. By 23, half her teeth were missing, including the entire front row. 'I wanted to act like nothing was going on, and nothing happened, it was embarrassing for me and something I was ashamed of,' she said. 'It made my confidence go out the window so I tried to hide away, thinking no one needs to know. 'It was as if I had an empty mouth.' Natalie and her now-fiance are all smiles while cuddling with their fuzzy cat Natalie tried getting dentures in 2021, but because of her financial situation, she couldn't afford a good-quality pair. 'My denture was so poorly made, it was unwearable,' she said. 'I was stuck with no upper teeth and 11 broken ones. 'I also had decayed lower teeth and nerve damage.' Besides dealing with the struggles of having no teeth, Natalie was simultaneously learning to speak again by watching hundreds of videos on speech impediments. Her biggest obstacle was her tongue and she practiced reading books out loud in her kitchen until she eventually got the hang of it. In January 2023, she looked into specialist dentures, which are considered permanent artificial teeth, and was told it would cost $10,000, so she set up a GoFundMe to finance her new chompers. After getting dentures, Natalie began documenting her struggles in a candid series of videos on TikTok, where she ultimately amassed close to 20,000 followers - who then helped her to raise $9,909 for a set of permanent teeth via a GoFundMe page. By August, the funds were in, and she had both upper and lower dentures put in. Now, Natalie is an advocate and content creator, and shares her journey online in hopes of helping others. One recent TikTok post gathered more than 65,800 views, and was captioned: 'YALLLL I was told to let the dentist open it tomorrow for sterilization purposes.' The video revealed her zooming in on the bag containing her old dentures. The clip received thousands of likes, as well as plenty of comments from baffled users. Natalie added: 'If I could give any advice when it comes to dental health and especially saving your smile, don't hesitate or be scared to get multiple opinions' One recent TikTok post gathered more than 65,800 views, lots of feedback and was captioned: 'YALLLL I was told to let the dentist open it tomorrow for sterilization purposes' One person said: 'Omg omg omg I'm so excited omg.' 'Oh I can't wait to see,' another added. 'Ahhh tomorrow is the big day!' a third person wrote, while someone else said: 'I would've done it.' 'Sorry, my dog must of opened it,' one user joked. Natalie added: 'If I could give any advice when it comes to dental health and especially saving your smile, don't hesitate or be scared to get multiple opinions! 'The dentistry industry unfortunately can be a cash grab, and although they may give you everything you want to hear not all dental specialists are in the industry for the right reasons. 'Also remember that no matter what the circumstances, finding humor and positivity in any situation can make difficult times a whole lot easier to deal with and process. 'Life is too short to be getting upset over things we can't control.' A single mother who had a baby using donor sperm has asked her brother and his wife to raise her daughter - after being given just two years to live. Emma Postance, 42, from Baughurst, Hampshire, had her little girl, Alice, two, in April 2021 - after deciding to have a baby on her own via sperm donor. The mother-of-one was diagnosed with a glioblastoma - a fast-growing and aggressive brain tumour - in October 2022, after experiencing severe headaches and spells of confusion. She initially thought her symptoms could be a flare up of her multiple sclerosis (MS) but was shocked to find out she had a mass the size of a conker growing on her brain. Emma had surgery in November 2022 to remove the tumour - followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Emma Postance, 42, from Baughurst, Hampshire, asked her brother and his wife to raise her daughter - after being given just two years to live But was told that she had exhausted all treatment options and given just two years to live. She is now thinking about her daughter's future without her and has asked her brother, Andrew, 44, a mechanical engineer and his wife, Jessica, a chartered environmental engineer, 43, to raise Alice. Emma, a former stockbroker, said: 'I asked the consultant if this thing is going to get me and without hesitation they answered yes. 'Maybe two years, maybe a little less or it could be more. 'All I could picture was my then one-year-old daughter - who was likely to become an orphan by the time she started school. 'The following weekend, I sobbed with my brother, Andrew, and his wife, Jessica, and asked if they'd bring up Alice for me and they both immediately agreed. 'I want nothing more than to watch my daughter grow up but it's too late for me. 'I want Alice to have the best possible future and options.' Emma - who lives with multiple sclerosis - was diagnosed with an ovarian tumour in 2019 after going for a fertility check up. She is now thinking about her daughter's future without her and has asked her brother, Andrew, 44, (second from left) a mechanical engineer and his wife, Jessica, (sendong from right) a chartered environmental engineer, 43, to raise Alice alongside their children Emma's brother Andrew (pictured) agreed to raise her daughter Alice alongside his own children in Wales The mother-of-one was diagnosed with a glioblastoma - a fast-growing and aggressive brain tumour - in October 2022, after experiencing severe headaches and spells of confusion She initially thought her symptoms could be a flare up of her multiple sclerosis (MS) but was shocked to find out she had a mass the size of a conker growing on her brain She started experiencing severe headaches and spells of confusion, while she was on holiday in Spain - which she originally put down to her MS She started experiencing severe headaches and spells of confusion, while she was on holiday in Spain - which she originally put down to her MS. A CT scan confirmed that Emma had a mass the size of a conker growing on her brain, and she was diagnosed with a glioblastoma in October 2022. Having exhausted the NHS standard of care currently available to brain cancer patients, Emma has been 'forced' to fund private immunotherapy treatment in Germany and raised more than 60k. Emma said: 'I wasn't going to sit and wait for the cancer to come back. I've been angry and frustrated that treatment in the UK is so limited. 'This is because the government hasn't prioritised the research funding into brain tumours like they promised.' Since her diagnosis, Emma has had to come to terms with the fact she won't be able to watch her daughter grow up. After her prognosis, she asked Andrew and Jessica, from Cardiff, Wales, to bring up Alice alongside their children. According to the Brain Tumour Research, just 12 per cent of those diagnosed with a brain tumour survive beyond five years compared with an average of 54 per cent across all cancers - yet just 1 per cent of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to brain tumours. Emma said: 'I've learned that there is no one size fits all when it comes to the treatment of brain tumours. 'Glioblastoma is a disease so deadly it's known as 'the terminator' in the medical world. Emma had surgery in November 2022 to remove the tumour - followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy Emma had 25 staples post surgery and eventually she was told that she had exhausted all treatment options and given just two years to live A CT scan confirmed that Emma had a mass the size of a conker growing on her brain, and she was diagnosed with a glioblastoma in October 2022 Since her diagnosis, Emma has had to come to terms with the fact she won't be able to watch her daughter grow up 'It's a fast-growing brain cancer that can affect anyone at any age and comes with a grim prognosis. 'They are complex which means to understand how to treat and cure them, we need the funding to research the disease.' Emma is now campaigning alongside the charity Brain Tumour Research to help reach 100,000 signatures on its petition to increase research funding, in the hope of prompting a parliamentary debate. The charity is calling on the government to ring-fence 110million of current and new funding to kick-start an increase in the national investment in brain tumour research to 35 million a year by 2028. Brain Tumour Research wants the government to recognise brain tumour research as a critical priority. It says the increase in research investment would put brain tumours in line with the spend on cancers of breast, bowel and lung, as well as leukaemia. Emma said she wanted nothing more than to watch her daughter grow up but it's too late (pictured with Alice at three days old) Emma beamed for a snap after Alice's birth at St Thomas' Hospital in April 2021 Emma is now campaigning alongside the charity Brain Tumour Research to help reach 100,000 signatures on its petition to increase research funding, in the hope of prompting a parliamentary debate WHAT IS A GLIOBLASTOMA? Glioblastomas are the most common cancerous brain tumours in adults. They are fast growing and likely to spread. Glioblastomas' cause is unknown but may be related to a sufferer's genes if mutations result in cells growing uncontrollably, forming a tumour. Treatment is usually surgery to remove as much of the tumour as possible, followed by a combination of radio- and chemotherapy (chemoradiation). It can be difficult to remove all of the growth as glioblastomas have tendrils that extend to other regions of the brain. These are targeted via chemoradiation. Glioblastomas are often resistant to treatment as they are usually made up of different types of cells. Therefore, medication will kill off some cells and not others. The average survival time is between 12 and 18 months. Source: The Brain Tumour Charity Advertisement Emma said: 'I shouldn't have to advocate for myself, let alone travel overseas to find something that may work. 'I know it won't save my life. I know what I'm up against. 'The last few months have been consumed by putting a will in place and making plans for Alice for when I'm not here.' Mel Tiley, community development manager at Brain Tumour Research, said: 'We are grateful to Emma for supporting our petition and helping to raise awareness. 'Her story is deeply sad and equally shocking. 'For too long governments have put brain tumours on the 'too difficult to think about' pile. 'Five years after the Government announced 40 million for brain cancer research, less than 11 million has been spent. 'Patients and families continue to be let down by a funding system that is built in silos and not fit for purpose. 'If everyone can spare just a few minutes to sign and share, we will soon hit the 100,000 signatures we need and help find a cure, bringing hope to families whose loved ones have been affected by brain tumours.' Queen Letizia of Spain was snapped looking glamorous today as she attended a glittering awards ceremony in Barcelona. The 51-year-old royal was accompanied by her husband King Felipe, 55, as they hosted the inaugural La Vanguardia Awards at the National Art Museum of Catalonia. Every year, the prizes will recognise individuals and organisations who are active in the social, economic, political or cultural fields. Winners will be decided by a panel of prominent personalities and members of the editorial staff of La Vanguardia, a daily Spanish newspaper. Queen Letizia of Spain looked typically stylish in a black frock as she attended the inaugural La Vanguardia Awards at the National Art Museum of Catalonia today The 51-year-old royal was accompanied by her husband King Felipe of Spain, 55, at the Barcelona event Mother-of-two Letizia looked typically chic in a black, midi length frock with a boat neck, and minimalist floral print featuring green stems and gold flowers. The royal kept her look simple and stylish, accessorising the dress with black heeled pumps, and a gold clutch bag. She wore her dark, brunette tresses loose, and opted for a glamorous make-up look, with a dewy base, peach blush, nude pink lip, and brown smokey eye. Meanwhile, her husband King Felipe looked equally dapper, in a navy, two-piece pinstripe suit. The Queen showed off her incredibly toned arms as she carried her gold quilted clutch bag The mother-of-two looked effortlessly elegant in the black boat-neck dress and wore a s bronze smokey eye He paired the suit with a crisp white shirt, turquoise tie, and patent black Oxford shoes. According to a palace press release, among the honorees at the inaugural event was businesswoman Sol Daurella who picked up the 1st Vanguardia 'Entrepreneur of the Year' Award. The prize was given to Sol 'for her social commitment to equality and inclusion, for facing with determination business challenges such as technological development, sustainability or innovation, and for turning a local bottling company into Coca-Cola's main partner in the world'. The 2nd Vanguardia 'Entrepreneur of the Year' Award was handed to businessman Marc Puig, Puig, a fragrance and fashion company. The King leant down to have a chat with Spanish singer Bad Gyal, who was sporting a chain dress The King and Queen gave the award winners a round of applause while they were on stage In a sweet moment, Queen Letizia held onto King Felipe's arm as they walked down the stairs off stage The King and Queen looked regal as they stopped to take photos with other guests and officials Every year, the prizes will recognise individuals and organisations who are active in the social, economic, political or cultural fields The queen's midi length frock featured a boat neck alongside a minimalist floral print with green stems and gold flowers The royal kept her look simple and stylish, accessorising the dress with black heeled pumps, and a gold clutch bag He was honoured for his 'courage, ambition, boldness in decision-making as Chairman and CEO, and for having successfully guided the Puig company to become a global giant in the beauty and fashion sector'. Physicist and professor Ignacio Cirac won the 3rd Vanguard Award for 'Innovation'. The award recognised the academic for developing a computing system based on quantum mechanics that will allow the design of much faster algorithms with practical applications in the field of materials and drug design. Meanwhile, her husband King Felipe looked equally dapper, in a navy, two-piece pinstripe suit Musician Bad Gyal picked up the 4th Vanguard Award 'International Young Talent', which was given for her 'transgressive spirit, her charismatic personality and because she has become one of the female icons of Latin dancehall and trap music'. Finally, the 5th Vanguard 'Culture' Award was presented to painter Lita Cabellut 'for her unique creative universe, for having made her technique a personal stamp, and for being, today, one of the most sought-after painters in the world'. Her appearance marks a busy week for the royal as she was spotted kicking off the school year in Santiago de Compostela last week Monday. As usual, the Queen showed off her chic sense of style in a strikingly bold, yet elegant ensemble as she visited the school in north west Spain. The Queen wore a Parisian-style striped white and navy top which had three-quarter-length sleeves and a high neckline. And while Letizia normally wears her locks down, it seems she wanted to switch up her hairstyle. She instead wore her hair in a low ponytail and parted her brunette tresses, slicking some some hair to the side. Letizia visited the CEIP Plurilingue do Camino Ingles school, which is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year. The director of the centre, Francisco Avila, said he viewed the visit from the Queen as 'a unique opportunity' to highlight the work carried out by the centre, local media La Vanguardia reported. The royal smiled as she walked around the building, accompanied by officials such as the Minister of Education, Pilar Alegria, the president of the Xunta, Alfonso Rueda, and the president of the Parliament of Galicia, Miguel Angel Santalices. Letizia tucked the top into a pair of smart navy suit trousers and opted to wear a belt, which cinched in her waist. The former journalist finished her look by wearing a pair of Carrie Blue Suede Sling Back heels from Isabel Abdo. He was stunned by one special feature that isn't available in the UK JZ, from London, had never seen an Australian rubbish truck before A British expat was shocked by a 'convenient' Australian vehicle he saw performing one of the 'most difficult' jobs back home. JZ, from London, travelled the world and is now trying to build a life in the Gold Coast. The Queensland dweller was casually looking out his window one day when he saw a rubbish truck do something 'amazing'. The truck had a feature which uses a motorised crane to pick up the heavy bins and empty them into the back of the truck. JZ revealed that the trucks back home in the UK had bin men who manually empty rubbish bags into the truck. JZ shared a video of the 'futuristic' gadget online. 'Why did this amaze me so much?' he asked. 'I'm so used to seeing real people do this job at home.' Thousands were stunned that other countries still had bin men. 'I just found out this isnt standard! This type of truck was invented in 1969,' a man said. 'We have had this since i could remember in New Zealand,' another added. 'Australia has had this for over 30 years. It didn't occur to me the UK still has people doing this by hand,' a third wrote. A UK expat was shocked by a 'convenient' Australian vehicle he saw performing one of the 'most difficult' jobs back home While some offered explanations as to why the motorised crane isn't always an option. 'I think it depends on the width of the streets, in some parts of Sydney there are bin men that do it by hand but in other parts they use these trucks,' a woman explained. 'It might be a space issue in the UK - Aussie streets are quite wide and you need a lot of leg room to pull off something like that,' a second said. 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The variations from county to county reflect the different degrees of influence that major risk factors have for dying of breast cancer, including obesity and a history of smoking. Researchers in Virginia used federal data to look at breast cancer deaths in more than 2,000 counties to map out differences in mortality rates. Death rates can vary drastically from one county to its neighbor, such as Lamar County, Alabama, where approximately one in 33 women overall die of breast cancer compared to nearby Cullman where that rate is as high as one in nine. The researchers said: 'These results suggest that breast cancer mortality in the US can be affected by where individuals live, and that more comprehensive and geographically targeted interventions may lead to healthier communities.' Counties in gray did not include any data. Those that did have relevant data are colored in shades of purple. The researchers' work showed not only which states have higher breast cancer death rates, but also those rates in individual counties. Alabama, for instance, is an example of significant county-by-county variation. The northern part of the state showed more variation in mortality rates than the southern region Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in the US, but death rates have plummeted 43 percent between 1989 and 2020 The authors added: 'Alabama is a clear example of the diverse outcomes experienced by breast cancer patients based on their geographic location even under unified state programs. 'While the northern part of the state showed significant variation in age-adjusted mortality rates between counties, the southern part of the state displayed more homogeneous rates.' Alabama was not the only state showing a collection of counties with vastly different death rates. For instance, the mortality rate hovered between nine and 17 per 100,000 women in Person County, North Carolina. But in Caswell County right next door, that rate fell within the range of 25 to 33 per 100,000 women. In Garfield County, Utah, between one in 33 and one in 57 die of breast cancer, compared to one in nine to 17 in neighboring Iron County. In Putnam County, Ohio, between one in 25 and one in 33 die of breast cancer compared to Paulding County right next door, where an estimate one in 17 to 21 die of the same cause. And in Okanogan county, the mortality rate ralls between 33 and 57 deaths per 100,000 people, compared to nine to 17 per 100,00 in Douglas County directly south. Different variables that contribute to fatal breast cancer cases had difference levels of impact. Obesity was influential in 100 percent of the counties, but those in the southeastern US had marginally higher coefficient rates, meaning obesity rates had a slightly higher impact in those counties Counties in red have lower coefficient ranges than yellow-shaded counties, meaning that while access to the preventative breast x-rays was universally influential, the relationship between access to mammograms and breast cancer deaths was strongest in eastern states In the south and east, whose counties are colored in shades of yellow and orange, the association between access to nutritious food and breast cancer death rates is represented by a coefficient range of 1.55 to 2.85, while the west's coefficient fell between -1.07 to -0.36. However, the map shows pockets in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Kentucky where the relationship between the two is stronger than the region overall They found that obesity rates in certain areas, particularly a long string of counties in Bible Belt states, had a stronger link to breast cancer deaths than those in the Pacific Northwest. In eastern states, mammogram access influenced mortality. Obesity contributed to deaths in every county the researchers looked at, but smoking cigarettes was estimated to have a hand in driving up death rates in fewer than 17 percent of counties. And whether people in a county had access to nutritious, healthy food influenced death rates in over 80 percent of counties. Access to healthcare services, including preventative measures such as mammograms, had a universal impact on deaths due to breast cancer. As more women underwent X-rays to detect cancer, fewer died. And while breast cancer is the most common type among women, with more than 264,000 diagnosed every year in the US, mammograms and other screening tools as well as innovations in cancer treatments have helped tamp down death rates. Deaths due to breast cancer have plummeted 43 percent between 1989 and 2020 after successful public health awareness campaigns, better screening, and new drugs. To help researchers dive deep into county-level data, the researchers relied on two methods of statistical analysis - Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) and Multiscale Geographically Weighted Regression (MGWR). The relationship between breast cancer deaths and different variables that influence those, including access to healthy food and mammograms, is shown using a coefficient, or a number that shows the strength of a relationship between two variables. A higher coefficient number indicates a stronger relationship. Both models showed that the effects of mammogram uptake and obesity had a uniform impact, which allowed the researchers to see that those relationships were strongest in most counties spanning North Carolina and Florida to eastern Oklahoma and Texas. They also determined that mammogram access had an even stronger influence on keeping breast cancer death rates low in most counties on the eastern seaboard stretching from Maine to North Carolina. The food environment was influential in most counties but even greater in southern and eastern states' counties compared to the western US. Obesity had an even stronger impact on southern states' counties compared to the west. The findings were published in the journal JAMA Network Open. Millions of Brits are being invited to get an autumn Covid booster jab from today amid spiralling virus hospitalisations. Around 20million people in England are eligible for the booster this year, including over-65s, pregnant women and people with underlying health conditions. They have been urged to book their vaccination appointment during which they will also be offered a flu jab through the NHS website, app or by calling 119. Officials brought forward the rollout by an entire month due to the spread of the highly mutated Pirola Covid variant, which experts fear could trigger a spike in infections and hospitalisations. Latest data shows that the number of infected Brits admitted to hospital in England is at a four-month high, with the toll doubling in the space of a month. In a bid to 'go back to normal', invites won't be dished out to millions aged 50-64 who were eligible during the pandemic It comes as Covid hospitalisations have soared to a four-month high in England. Some 3,287 infected people were admitted in the week to September 8, which is the highest figure logged since the week to April 28 (3,485). The toll has also nearly doubled in a month, compared to the 1,804 in NHS beds with Covid in the week to August 4 Health chiefs say all of those eligible will be offered a Covid booster by the end of October in response to the 'risk of the new variant'. The autumn rollout began last week, with care home residents and housebound people the first to get top-up Covid and flu jabs. Hundreds of thousands of those included in the rollout will begin receiving invitations from the health service this week, encouraging them to come forward. As well as care home residents and housebound people, the over-65s, frontline health and social care workers and carers are also eligible for Covid and flu vaccines. People aged 6 months to 64 years in a clinical risk group will also be invited. READ MORE: Autumn Covid booster: Who is eligible and can you book them now? Care home residents and those who are housebound are the first to get a top-up jab as part of the autumn rollout in England, which kicked off today Advertisement This group includes people with a chronic respiratory, heart, kidney or liver disease, as well as those with diabetes, pregnant women and those who are morbidly obese. GP surgeries and other local NHS services are also contacting people to offer the vaccines. The 30million Brits eligible for a flu jab can book a slot with their local pharmacy. Those getting a Covid vaccine will also be offered a flu shot during that appointment. Around 5,000 sites the most ever will be dishing out vaccines in a bid to make it as 'easy and convenient as possible' for people to get protected. Steve Russell, NHS director for vaccinations and screening, said: 'Vaccines are our best protection against flu and Covid, and I strongly encourage all eligible people to come forward for their lifesaving winter vaccines as soon as they can. 'The new Covid variant presents a new risk, but NHS staff are rising to the challenge once more to do all they can to protect the public.' The NHS says flu vaccines provide vital protection to those eligible and their families over winter. The jab protects against severe illness, hospitalisation and death due to the virus. Those who got a vaccine last autumn were 53 per cent less likely to be admitted in the month after being jabbed, compared to those who didn't get a booster. It is vital for people to get a booster dose, even if they have had a Covid vaccine or been infected previously, as the immunity these provide fades over time. Health minister Maria Caulfield said: 'As we enter the autumn months, it's vital that the most vulnerable groups receive flu and Covid vaccines to strengthen their immunity and reduce pressure on the NHS. 'We're investing an additional 200million in the NHS to support it during its busiest period. We can all do our bit to help ease pressures, so I encourage anyone eligible to get their vaccines booked as soon as they are called, to ensure we all head into winter with the best protection.' The East of England had the largest number of cases thanks to a massive care home outbreak of 28 cases in Norfolk in late August Globally, more than 100 cases of Pirola have been detected including in Denmark, South Africa and the US While virologists have warned it is too early to reliably pinpoint BA.2.86 specific symptoms, its ancestor BA.2 had some tell-tale signs. Experts aren't yet certain, however if it behaves like similar Omicron subvariants, the signs to watch out for include a runny nose, sore throat and fatigue Dr Mary Ramsay, head of immunisation at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), said: 'We are already seeing a slow rise in cases of Covid, as well as increases in hospitalisations, particularly among the over-75s. 'Older people and those in clinical risk groups remain at higher risk of severe illness, so it's important all those eligible come forward when offered and get protected against flu and Covid.' It comes as Covid hospitalisations have soared to a four-month high in England. Some 3,287 infected people were admitted in the week to September 8, which is the highest figure logged since the week to April 28 (3,485). The toll has also nearly doubled in a month, compared to the 1,804 in NHS beds with Covid in the week to August 4. Pirola has been detected in the UK, US, Israel, Denmark, South Africa , Portugal, Sweden, France, Canada, Thailand and Switzerland. Health experts fear it is rapidly spreading worldwide undetected It is unclear how many Brits are infected with the virus, as the nation is no longer testing en masse like they were earlier in the pandemic with free community mass testing being scrapped in May 2022. However, health chiefs last week estimated that the Pirola variant, scientifically known as BA.2.86, was behind 2.7 per cent of cases in the week to August 27. A total of 42 cases had been detected in the UK by September 11, up from 36 one week earlier. The East of England has logged the largest number of cases due to a massive care home outbreak of 28 cases in Norfolk in late August. Excluding this singular event, London was the UK's Pirola hotspot, logging six cases, followed by Scotland, which has reported five. Of England's 37 cases, spotted as of September 11, seven had been hospitalised, while two were detected among A&E patients. No deaths have been recorded among those infected. No Pirola cases have been detected in Wales and Northern Ireland. Globally, more than 100 cases of Pirola have been detected including in Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Israel, Japan, Portugal, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden and the US. Dr Renu Bindra, UKHSA incident director, said that while Pirola has a 'significant number of mutations' compared with other variants in circulation, the data so far is 'too limited to draw firm conclusions' about the impact this will have. She added: 'It is clear that there is some degree of widespread community transmission, both in the UK and globally, and we are working to ascertain the full extent of this. 'In the meantime, it remains vital that all those eligible come forward to receive their autumn vaccine as soon as it is offered to them.' UN agency urged for 'full access' from Beijing and that it is ready to send a team Pressure is mounting on Beijing to offer up information on the origins of the Covid pandemic. The World Health Organization (WHO) warned it is ready to send a team of scientists to China to probe how the virus spread to humans and plunge the world into crisis. An initial investigation by the UN health agency in 2021, which saw a group of scientists travel to Wuhan, the epicentre of the outbreak, concluded that Covid emerged naturally. It was criticised due to a lack of cooperation from Beijing, which allegedly refused to discuss the lab leak theory unless the final report stated no further investigation was needed, and withheld key data and samples. Now, WHO director general Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has written to Beijing asking for 'full access' and that it was ready to send investigators. WHO chief Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the UN agency had already written to China asking the communist regime for 'full access' Security personnel are pictured keeping watch during a visit to China by the WHO in 2021 'We're pressing China to give full access,' he told the Financial Times. 'We have already asked in writing to give us information...and also [are] willing to send a team if they allow us to do so.' The WHO held an initial probe into Covid's origins in 2021 but this highly criticised and was marked by a lack of cooperation from Xi Jinping's Government. Dr Ghebreyesus comments also mark a further willingness from the WHO to criticise China over its lack of transparency on Covid. Nearly four years on from when cases of the virus first emerged in Wuhan, scientists are no closer to uncovering its origin. READ MORE: Over-65s invited for Covid booster in England as health bosses warn of 'new risk' from Pirola variant and virus hospitalisations hit four-month high Care home residents and those who are housebound are the first to get a top-up jab as part of the autumn rollout in England, which kicked off today Advertisement Scientists claim it is vital to understand how the Covid pandemic began to prevent future outbreaks. Top virologists backing the natural origins theory believe the virus originated in bats and infected an intermediary species possibly a pangolin before then infecting humans. Studies point to Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in Wuhan as being the epicentre of the outbreak. Many of the earliest cases in December 2019 and January 2020 had visited the site, where live animals were sold. However, others believe the virus was leaked accidentally or on purpose from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, which was conducting experiments on live bats. The WHO's initial 2021 investigation, which saw 17 international and 17 Chinese experts spend four weeks in and around Wuhan, famously concluded that Covid emerged naturally and that a lab leak was 'extremely unlikely'. But Peter Ben Embarek, a program manager at the WHO who led the probe, later said Chinese officials only agreed to discuss the lab leak in the report on the condition that it did not call for any specific studies into the theory. While a second WHO probe was announced later that same year, urging China to be more transparent and cooperative, it eventually fizzled out. The WHO has repeatedly came under fire during the pandemic for its public and stalwart defence of China. This included initially parroting Beijing's dismissal that the virus could leaked from the now notorious Wuhan Institute of Virology. In the earliest days of the outbreak, WHO director Dr Ghebreyesus even went as far as to praise Beijing's 'commitment to transparency' which he called 'beyond words'. At around the same time, the Communist Party began censoring public information about the spread of the virus and its potential origins, at one point suggesting that US troops could have been the initial carriers. But as years and passed and the origins of the pandemic remain murky, WHO officials have become increasingly willing to criticise China. World Health Organization Director General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (L) and Chinese President Xi Jinping shake hands in Beijing on Jan. 28, 2020, ahead of their meeting to discuss how to curb the spread of then new coronavirus. Dr Tedros famously defended China's 'transparency' during the initial weeks of the Covid outbreak Dr Maria Van Kerkhove, the WHO's technical lead on Covid, has previously admitted she thinks China could be sitting on more bombshell evidence that could finally solve the mystery surrounding the pandemic's origin Infections of the Pirola strain have soared across the country, with the East of England seeing the largest number of cases due to a massive care home outbreak Dr Maria Van Kerkhove, the WHO's technical lead on Covid, attacked China earlier this year for hiding crucial data on Covid's origins for three years. Her comments related to Beijing-affiliated researchers only publicly sharing crucial samples taken from the initial site of the Wuhan outbreak in 2020 earlier this year. Speaking in April this year Dr Van Kerkhove said: 'The lack of data disclosure is simply inexcusable. 'The longer it takes to understand the origins of the pandemic, the harder it becomes to answer the question, and the more unsafe the world becomes.' She added: 'Every new piece of data could potentially move the world closer to stopping another pandemic perhaps a worse one in the future. 'The failure to share information only fuels politicization of origins tracing and keeps all hypotheses viable.' Dr Van Kerkhove also admitted that she thinks China could be sitting on even more bombshell evidence that could finally solve the mystery surrounding the pandemic's origin. This could include, she hinted, details into risky experiments being carried out inside the secretive facility central to the 'lab leak' theory. 'China has advanced technical capabilities and I therefore believe that more data exist that have yet to be shared,' she said. This included 'on the wild and farmed animal trade; the testing of humans and animals in Wuhan and across China; the operations of labs in Wuhan working on coronaviruses; the earliest potential cases; and more', she added. Multiple scientists have warned that time is running out in terms of learning exactly how Covid came to be, nearly four years on from when the virus first emerged. Experts have added this means that crucial lessons to help mitigate or prevent a similar pandemic in the future could be missed. While the world has moved on from the darkest days of the Covid pandemic new, and concerning, variants of the virus continue to emerge. The latest of these is a heavily mutated Omicron spin-off dubbed 'Priola' which sparked alarm earlier this year over fears it may cause a wave of cases this autumn. Concerns over the variant spooked health chiefs into accelerating a planned Covid and flu vaccine drive for elderly and vulnerable people in Britain in an attempt to boost their immunity. Since the start of the Covid pandemic almost 7million deaths from the virus have been reported to the WHO, with almost 230,000 in the UK alone. Have you been affected by the infection? Email iwan.stone@mailonline.co.uk Three people in Britain have been infected with a dog disease which is now spreading between canines in the UK for the first time. Brucella canis, a bacterial infection, is an incurable disease in canines can lead to infertility, lameness and pain in dogs. But the UK Health Security agency has now confirmed that three Brits have also caught the disease from infected animals, the first such cases ever found in the UK. And in another first Government experts today revealed they have now spotted the disease spreading among animals in the UK, albeit at low levels. Cases found previously had been isolated incidents among animals imported from areas like Eastern Europe, where the disease is endemic. Three of the human cases of Brucella canis have now been spotted in the UK since 2022 health chiefs said. Cases among dogs in the UK have also skyrocketed, with a record 91 already spotted this year. Brucella canis is a dog disease found mainly in animals imported from Eastern Europe, it can also infect people (stock image) Dr Christine Middlemiss, chief veterinary officer at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), told The Telegraph: 'We have had spread of a case in the UK to another dog in the UK. It is through breeding in kennels. 'There is not a lot there is very little. But that is new for us.' These UK-native cases of Brucella canis came from British dogs that had either had contact with an imported dog or were the offspring of an imported dog. This means the disease isn't considered endemic in the UK and is still officially classified as low risk. Human Animal Infections and Risk Surveillance (HAIRS), a cross-Government group, today published a report on the risk Brucella canis poses. READ MORE: Antivaxx spreads to pet owners: HALF of dog owners now hesitant about vaccinating their dogs (including against rabies) and a third think it could give their pooches AUTISM Vaccine skepticism is on the rise following Covid mandates, amid concern it could spill over into pets (stock image) Advertisement HAIRS found that there is a 'very low' risk of someone in the population becoming infected. However, dog breeders, people who work at vets or kennels and owners of infected dogs, are slightly more at risk of being exposed but this is still classed as 'low', the HAIRS report states. The group also found while the health risks of a Brucella canis infection were generally low, severe cases with life threatening complications had been reported and immunocompromised individuals could be at greater risk. In total three cases in people in the UK have been confirmed, with the HAIRS report detailing two. The first was detected after attending hospital for their symptoms, while the second was found in an asymptomatic person working at a vets who was routinely tested after contact with an infected dog. HAIRS recommended that dog breeders and charities importing dogs from overseas should carry out pre-export testing for the disease. They also advised that vets treating dogs imported from overseas use appropriate PPE to help minimise the risk of a potential infection. Dr Middlemiss said the Government was currently considering introducing a mandatory testing requirement for dogs imported from Brucella canis hotspots. 'We are gathering the evidence, various risk assessments are contributing to that evidence and we will consider it,' she said. While Brucella canis infection is not a death sentence for animals, it is considered a life-long disease, with no cure. This is because the bacteria behind the disease can remain dormant in the dog even after treatment, meaning they remain potentially infectious. Therefore, the only way to guarantee onward transmission of the disease is euthanasia. HAIRS said the decision on euthanasia is a matter for the owner of the animal and their vet and a willingness to accept the risks posed by continual exposure to the animal. Brucella canis infections among dogs in the UK has been on the rise. The bacterial infection can jump to people though severe disease is rare. Pictured the Brucella canis under a microscope There were just 9 cases in 2020, but this rose to 36 the following year and increased to 55 in 2022. As of July this year 91 cases have been identified in the UK, according to HAIRS. Clinical information was available for 22 of the cases, with 19 dogs having no symptoms, one having inflammation of the spine and other two having back pain. What is Brucella canis? Brucella canis is a bacterial infection that can infect both dogs and people. In dogs it can lead to infertility, lameness and pain. There is no cure though and recommended treatment is either euthanasia or extended use of antibiotics, though a dog can still be infectious even while taking medication. The disease spreads in dogs via exposure to contaminated bodily fluids. People can get the disease by via exposure to the same contaminated bodily fluids with people who work with multiple animals, like vets and kennel staff, most at risk. In people, Brucella canis generally produces mild and general flu-like symptoms that can make it difficult to diagnose. It rarely causes serious disease but human cases of dangerous infections in the heart, bone, brain tissue and blood have been recorded. However, there have been no reported fatalities in medical literature. In people the disease is often treated with antibiotics and while theoretically possible, there is no known cases of human-to-human transmission. The disease is not endemic to Britain with cases in the UK mostly coming from animals imported from elsewhere, particularly Eastern Europe. Advertisement All but one of these dogs had been imported into the UK, with most coming from Romania (14). The remaining case came from a puppy at an unlicensed breeding premises in Wales, where 21 dogs were also subsequently found to have the infection. All other cases found so far this year were in imported dogs. HAIRS said a rise in awareness of the disease among British vets, and therefore testing for it, is likely behind the increase in cases. Tests have also increased with 5,773 carried out between January and July this year, compared to just 1,332 in 2018. Romania is one of the biggest sources of imported dogs into the UK, with over 70,000 animals imported to Britain in 2020 and 2021. Only 10,000 animals were imported from last year Romania due to concerns of rise in diseases resulting from the conflict in neighbouring Ukraine. Signs of Brucella canis in dogs include infertility, swollen testes in male dogs, lethargy, premature aging and lameness from back pain. However, some dogs may show no obvious signs of infection. In people, Brucella canis generally produces mild and general flu-like symptoms that can make it difficult to diagnose. The disease can also strike years after initial infection and may occasionally come back recurrently over several years. There have also been reports of dangerous complications resulting from a Brucella canis infection in people. These include serious infections of the heart, bone, brain tissue and blood. However, no fatal case of Brucella canis in people has been recorded. Transmission of the disease between people is theoretically possible through routes like blood transfusion but there are no known cases of this occurring in medical literature. Dr Middlemiss told MailOnline that: 'We continue to work closely with our colleagues at UKHSA, dog welfare groups and vets to minimise the risks posed and recommend prospective owners make sure any dog imported from regions where Brucella canis is present is tested before arrival.' Wendi Shepherd, head of emerging Infections and zoonoses at UKHSA, added: 'We have seen a small number of cases of Brucella canis in people in the UK this year. 'However, the risk to the general public in the UK is very low and the risk to people who have had close contact with an infected dog is low. 'From the small number of cases of the infection that have been reported in humans worldwide, the infection is usually mild, but people who have weakened immune systems, are pregnant, or are young children may be more likely to experience more serious infection.' No country in the world has done more controversial virus-tinkering research than America. A first-of-its-kind study analyzed 'gain-of-function' experiments - which involve making pathogens more infectious or deadly - performed globally since 2000. Advocates say the tests help science get ahead of future outbreaks, but critics say the risks of a leak outweigh any potential benefit. The study found there have been more than 7,000 GOF or loss of function studies - which make viruses weaker - in the past two decades, with the US involved in more than half, followed by China (21 percent). Many scientists believe Covid was the product of a leak from the Wuhan Institute of Virology in China, where scientists were carrying out gain-of-function experiments on bat coronaviruses closely related to Covid using American research grants. The above map shows the percentages of gain- and loss-of-function research each country was involved in The study, conducted by researchers at Georgetown Universitys Center for Security and Emerging Technology, used artificial intelligence to scan 159,000 scientific literatures to find where and how often GOF and LOF studies are conducted. They found approximately 7,000 studies included this type of research and randomly chose 1,000 to manually sort through, leaving them with 488 publications. Of this literature, 25 percent involved only GOF work, 29 percent involved both GOF and LOF and 46 percent involved only LOF research. Exploring which pathogens were most tested, the team found 64 percent were viruses. Nine percent of those viruses were those that belonged to the Coronaviridae family, which includes coronaviruses. SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19, is a new strain of coronavirus in the family of Coronaviridae. Other viruses studied included flu (21 percent) and herpes (14 percent). Experts slam Boston lab where scientists have created a new deadly Omicron strain with an 80% kill rate in mice Boston University scientists were condemned for 'playing with fire' after it emerged they had created a lethal new Covid strain in a laboratory. Advertisement And 24 percent of the studies were related to vaccine development or testing. The Georgetown team also looked at the risk each pathogen posed to humans and found only a small fraction of the studies included pathogens dangerous enough to require the strictest biosafety precautions in labs. Most of the pathogens, 58 percent, posed a moderate risk to humans. One-quarter of pathogens explored were described as 'agents that may cause serious and potentially lethal infections.' One percent of studies involved the riskiest of pathogens 'that pose a high individual risk of life threatening disease by infectious aerosols and for which no treatment is available.' These include Ebola and smallpox. Examples of gain-of-function research the team found included infecting mice with the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which can cause pneumonia. This bacteria does not normally infect mice naturally, but researchers used it to investigate how the bacteria interacts with a host in an animal system. A gain- and loss-of-function study that occurred simultaneously saw scientists alter multiple strains of the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus, which can cause lung infections, to study what causes the fungus to become resistant to antifungal treatments. Some of the new strains scientists created grew faster in mice than in animals infected with the original strain. The politicized debate over Covid's origins has made the topic of GOF research a point of serious contention, with one camp speculating the virus originated in animals and another declaring the virus originated in a lab performing GOF studies. Anna Puglisi, a biotechnologist and policy specialist at Georgetown, who co-authored the report siad: 'Theres so much discussion and hype about gain-of-function research, but what does it really look like?' Getting an answer to that question is 'the only way you can start to understand what the true risk for both not regulating it and over-regulating is,' she added Covid patients are becoming harder to distinguish from those suffering from allergies or the common cold, doctors say. The most common symptoms of the virus are now sore throat, sneezing or congestion the same as RSV, asthma or a pollen allergy. For comparison, in the early stages of the pandemic, Covid had very distinct symptoms - such as a dry cough and a loss of sense of smell or taste. Dr Erick Eiting, vice chair of operations for emergency medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, which was hammered hard during the pandemic, said virtually every Covid patient in hospital at the moment was 'really mild'. Patients with the virus are now most likely to suffer from a sore throat, sneezing or congestion, doctors on the frontlines say Covid hospitalizations are rising, but there is little information available on how severe the disease is that these individuals are suffering Covid deaths have also ticked up slightly, although they are coming up from record lows Dr Eiting told NBC News: 'Just about [every Covid patient] who I've seen has had really mild symptoms. 'The only way that we knew it was Covid was because we happened to be testing them.' He added: 'It isn't [causing] the same typical symptoms that we were seeing before. It's a lot of congestion, sometimes sneezing, usually a mild sore throat.' Covid can also cause fever, headaches, fatigue and coughs but they are becoming less common. Dr Michael Daignault, an emergency physician in California, added: 'Especially since July, when this recent mini-surge started, younger people that have upper respiratory symptoms... 99 percent of the time they go home with supportive care.' By upper respiratory symptoms, he was referring to coughs, runny noses, sore throats, fever and chills. Doctors say that Covid has become much milder now because now almost every American has immunity against it from vaccination or previous infection. New variants have also emerged, which appear to have made the virus more infectious but less deadly. Official data shows Covid hospitalizations are ticking up nationwide, having risen nearly nine percent in the latest week to September 2. A total of 18,800 people are now being admitted with Covid every week equivalent to 2,700 a day. But they are rising from record lows and deaths remain low. There were 860 Covid deaths across America in the latest week to August 26, up around 4.5 percent in a week. There is no sign of a flu uptick yet, although the CDC warns of a rise later in the year There are warning signs that RSV infections are now starting to rise Indicators suggest that RSV infections are also starting to rise, although there is no sign of an uptick in flu cases yet. It comes after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warned a tripledemic of Covid, flu and RSV could strike the US this winter. In a statement, they said flu activity although currently low was 'likely to increase over the fall and winter'. And for the first time, people can get vaccinated against all three viruses, which public health officials are urging people to do to avoid another tripledemic like last year's when hospitals were inundated. Doctors hope enough people get vaccinated to help avert another 'tripledemic' like last year when hospitals were overwhelmed with an early flu season, an onslaught of RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, and yet another winter coronavirus surge. Following the tragic loss of teenager Martha Mills in hospital, patients may be given the right to a second opinion - but our columnist fears it's not enough. Martha Mills would have turned 16 earlier this month. But instead of celebrating her birthday, her parents were campaigning for the introduction of Martha's Rule to protect other patients succumbing to an avoidable death in hospital. Martha died two years ago after developing an infection and then sepsis, following an injury to her pancreas after an innocuous accident on her bike while on a family holiday in Wales. As the father of a 16-year-old daughter, like all those who've heard her tragic story, my heart bleeds for the family. They also suffered the agony of losing her, knowing Martha could have survived if staff had listened to their concerns. Compounding the awfulness of her story, Martha was an inpatient on the Rays of Sunshine ward at King's College Hospital in London, a world-leading paediatric liver unit which also specialises in pancreatic injuries. Martha Mills (pictured) would have turned 16 earlier this month. But instead of celebrating her birthday, her parents were campaigning for the introduction of Martha's Rule to protect other patients succumbing to an avoidable death in hospital Two years ago Martha (left) died needlessly in hospital a few days before her 14th birthday. Pictured: Martha and her mother Merope Mills Her injury meant Martha had to be fed through a tube running up her nose and into her intestines - and, a few weeks into her care, she developed an infection. In the vast majority of cases, these infections are easily treated by antibiotics; but Martha developed severe sepsis and her condition deteriorated. But each deterioration was essentially ignored or explained away by senior consultants and professors who missed multiple opportunities to save her life. Even a rash from sepsis was described by senior doctors as a delayed drug reaction. Others realised how unwell she was and wanted her on intensive care - most notably her parents. But it wasn't until she had a seizure that the medical team realised how ill Martha was: by then it was too late and she died the next day. READ MORE: Government backs Martha's rule on right to second medical opinion if NHS hospital staff dismiss patient concerns Advertisement The hospital later apologised and said it was 'committed to delivering further improvements to the care we provide'. How often have we heard that? The same apologies and commitments to 'make changes' or 'improve care' have become almost a formality with every case of tragic, avoidable death. And I fear too many more will still die needlessly. Before anyone says it's all about finances and pressures, the fact is Martha died on a well-funded ward, with senior doctors looking after her and intensive care beds to go to had she had been referred. It's far more complex than a lack of resources. After the coroner's inquest, a Prevention of Future Death report - also known as a Regulation 28 - was issued by the coroner to the hospital. In essence, this is an order telling the hospital what it must change. There were recommendations to improve training for staff on sepsis, about having a named consultant for each patient and introducing improved systems for escalating concerns to the intensive care team. But will this really stop a future tragedy? It's been said that 'insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results' - and I fear these recommendations won't solve the fundamental problem, which is cultural and is rarely tackled. Many mistakes can be prevented by speaking up, whether it's fellow clinicians or a patient's loved ones. Throughout the last week of Martha's care, senior consultants and professors were making the incorrect diagnosis - not deliberately and, with hindsight, it's all too easy to see where they were going wrong. A known phenomenon when it comes to making decisions of any kind is our natural tendency of cognitive bias such as 'confirmation bias' - looking for evidence of what you think is going on rather than looking for evidence of what else it could be. Martha died two years ago after developing an infection and then sepsis , following an injury to her pancreas after an innocuous accident on her bike while on a family holiday in Wales Martha's mother, Merope Mills, pictured, has said she and her husband, Paul Laity, raised concerns about Martha's deteriorating health a number of times but these were not acted upon For instance, in Martha's case, the rash from sepsis was put down to a delayed drug reaction rather than anyone thinking, 'What might the other causes be?' In a medical context, 'availability bias' has a particular impact - this is when we only think about things that come quickly to mind. Martha's was the first death from pancreatic trauma the ward had experienced, so people just didn't believe she was dying. Except some people did believe it. But either they didn't speak up or - in the case of her family - their voices were not heard. We have a problem with the culture in hospitals of not speaking up. It is improving, but this tragedy shows it has not disappeared. Many are afraid to challenge the hierarchy and senior leaders do not encourage it. Although I work as an A&E consultant, I'm also trained as an intensive care (ITU) consultant. Having reviewed the coroner's report, I am sure there were nurses and junior doctors who disagreed with the consultants' decisions not to refer Martha to ITU, but felt they couldn't question this. We need to change this culture. We need senior staff to encourage all staff to question them and ask why they're making certain decisions. I know how difficult it is to challenge. As a junior doctor, I struggled to speak up and, on one occasion, didn't intervene when my consultant was putting an intravenous line into my patient's neck without using an ultrasound. This increases the chances of infection. Five days later, the patient developed MRSA and, because of my lack of bravery, she had to spend weeks in intensive care. But Martha's parents did speak out: they asked repeatedly for their child's diagnosis and the decision not to admit her to ITU to be reviewed. Listening to families has saved me from doing harm on many occasions. During the second wave of Covid, when almost everyone I saw had the infection, I fell into an 'availability bias' and misdiagnosed a patient with Covid when, in fact, he had sepsis caused by an infection in his tonsils and urgently needed intravenous antibiotics (as you will know, you don't treat Covid with antibiotics). When I asked the family if they were happy with the plan to treat the patient with just oxygen for 'Covid' they said no, 'because it didn't seem like 'just' Covid'. It made me review the case and, realising my error, start the antibiotics - delayed, but not enough to cause lasting problems. So I welcome last week's announcement by the Health Secretary Steve Barclay to support the introduction of Martha's Rule to ensure that families' concerns are listened to. In a largely forgotten study published in 2015 by Cincinnati Children's Hospital in the U.S., parents were given the right to summon the emergency medical team to the ward if they were worried, just like the nurses could. In 24 per cent of these calls, the child ended up going to the intensive care unit, proving that parents do often know best and we need to have ways of ensuring they are empowered, which Martha's Rule will help achieve. But Martha's Rule will not change the cultural problem of staff reluctance to challenge and speak up. Guidelines and new rules can't alter how people think and behave. That requires education for all staff, from chief executives to doctors and ward clerks. We must also ensure that Martha's Rule doesn't have unintended consequences - where already stretched staff have their attention taken away from the sickest of patients. So it must be carefully written with patient safety experts and in collaboration with the hospitals that will enact it. Martha's legacy must be to change a culture to prevent another needless death. She deserves nothing less. Its well known that women tend to live longer than men. And the extent to which this true is revealed in the latest census data which shows that women who have reached the age of 100 outnumber men by four to one. The total number of centenarians has soared from 11,186 to 13,924 in a decade, the 2021 figures found. Women made up 11,288 of the total, whereas just 2,636 men had reached the milestone age. The overall rise on a century before was an astonishing 27-fold, up from just 110 in 1921. The latest data from the Office for National Statistics, published yesterday, also seems to suggest living near the seaside might be the secret to a long life. Women made up 11,288 of the total, whereas just 2,636 men had reached the milestone age (Stock Image) Nine out of the ten local authorities with the most centenarians are by the coast, with the top three all on the English south coast. There were 64 people who had reached 100 or older per 100,000 people in East Devon, 59 per 100,000 in Arun in West Sussex, and 57 per 100,000 in the New Forest, the ONS said. Birmingham had the highest number of centenarians overall at 193 but only 17 per 100,000 people. The ONS said there were eight local authorities with fewer than ten centenarians per 100,000 people. Of these, the ONS said six were London boroughs Newham (five per 100,000); Tower Hamlets (six); Hackney (eight); Islington (nine); Lambeth (nine); and Lewisham (9.6). The data revealed that two in five centenarians (41.6 per cent) lived by themselves in private homes. One in ten (10.9 per cent) lived with another person, most commonly their children or other relatives. Meanwhile two in five (39.1 per cent) lived in communal establishments such as care homes. The majority of those aged over 100 were widowed but 18.4 per cent of males were married compared with just 3.7 per cent of females. A total of 905 centenarians were married, although many couples no longer live together with one spouse often having moved into a care home. Many centenarians claim that keeping active is the secret to their long life. The UK has the seventh highest number of centenarians worldwide (Stock Image) But there are 14 couples in which both spouses are over 100 and they still live together at home. One in four centenarians said they were in good health, the ONS said, and surprisingly, three in ten reported having no disability. Nine out of ten had been born in the UK, with 1.3 per cent born in Ireland, 2.4 in another European country and 2.5 in the Middle East and Asia. More than one in four women over 100 (28 per cent) had never worked, while among those who had, the largest number (25.9 per cent) had been secretaries. Among male centenarians, 21.9 had been skilled tradesmen and 15.8 per cent professionals. The UK has the seventh highest number of centenarians worldwide, with Japan topping the list followed by Guadeloupe and Uruguay. Many centenarians claim that keeping active is the secret to their long life including former World War Two Mosquito pilot Colin Bell, who became the oldest person to take part in an abseil last week at 102. Flight Lieutenant Bell, last week abseiled 280ft from the helipad at the Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel, east London, to help raise money for charity. Mr Bell, who was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross during the war, said: I may be 102 years old, but I still want to do my bit to raise much-needed funding for three amazing charities. When Meghan Markle stepped out in a $1,600 wool coat, Hermes scarf and Chanel flats last month, it wasn't her outfit that caught attention. Her most talked-about accessory was a small blue sticker on her left wrist - an anti-stress NuCalm patch that has become popular among wellness gurus and biohackers and promises to provide 'resonance and frequencies'. As a person with a high baseline stress level, I was immediately intrigued - and was prepared to pay the $80 for a pack of 20 NuCalm stickers (plus the $30-a-month for the company's companion app). If it is good enough to keep the Duchess of Sussex calm, I figured it would be an easy counter to my daily stressors. Meghan Markle was spotted wearing the anti-stress patch while out in August DailyMail.com tested the anti-stress patches for more than a week. The discs, coupled with the NuCalm app had a marginal benefit for sleep but overall the effects seemed to be placebo When placed on the inside of the left wrist at the Pericardium-6 acupuncture point, the sticker sends a signal to the protective sac around the heart called the pericardium, activating the parasympathetic nervous system to interfere with the bodys natural response to external stress When I went to NuCalm's website to learn what I was in for, I was met with jargon that only a Ph.D. student could understand. The site said the sticker works by 'tapping into the bodys Pericardium Meridian with particular electromagnetic frequencies of inhibitory neurotransmitters to interrupt the HPA axis and downregulate sympathetic tone.' Come again? I couldn't help but feel the jargon was intentional to mask the fact the sticker is based on traditional Chinese medicine techniques rather than sound science. For 10 days straight, I wore the sticker on the 'pericardium-6 acupuncture point', which is a fancy way of saying the inside of my left wrist. In traditional Chinese medicine, that pressure point is said to be part of the 'Pericardium meridian energy pathway' which, when stimulated through acupressure, can influence the flow of vital energy or 'qi' and blood along that pathway. If you rolled your eyes while reading that description, you're like me. But for the first two days of my trial, I was surprised by how much I felt the reduction in general stress. Whether it was a placebo effect or sheer optimism about a possible anxiety treatment that's not a pill made by big pharma, I'm still not quite sure. When you wear the sticker, you get a mild sense of pressure on your wrist which took a bit of getting used to. After around day three, and I started to forget the sticker was there, the stress and anxiety came back - which makes me confident there's something psychosomatic going on when it comes to NuCalm's anti-anxiety effects. There were long periods throughout the test where I noticed that my breathing felt smooth and more consistent than usual - but again, was I just hypersensitive to my body? I'm still undecided. The disc purports to harness the body's natural frequencies and vibrations to induce a sense of calm and relaxation For $80 worth of stickers and $30 for the associated app, DailyMail.com did not think there was a measurable benefit As the week went on, I would feel bouts of uneasiness creep back in - waiting on the claustrophobic subway platform during rush hour or holding my breath on the phone as the dial tone buzzed hoping my source on the other end would pick up. But periodically, when I spotted the sticker on the inside of my wrist again, my breathing would ease up, my thoughts would slow to a normal pace, and my muscles would loosen. It was as if the sticker were a reminder rather than an actual medical device. I attempted to dig up some scientific research that could offer an answer to my question - was it all in my head? But the answer eluded me, even after following up with the NuCalm website's repeated claims to be 'clinically proven'. I found no such clinical trial or research on any sort of wearable bio-signaling disc. When it comes to sleep quality, I did feel marginally more rested over the 10 days. The NuCalm Deep Sleep channel on the app features music that can run for hours, though its not the actual music that lulls you sleep. The frequencies from the music are said to synchronize brain waves to other frequencies associated with different states of being alpha and theta, which mimic the bodys natural communication processes to initiate sleep. The difference after a night of wearing the disc and listening to hours of low frequencies was marginal, though I noticed myself hitting the snooze button fewer times, suggesting the quality of my sleep was improved. Given the spotty science and tepid reviews from neuroscientists, it's worth dissecting the company's claims. The company likens the small disc inside each sticker to a battery holding a charge. When the sticker is pressed against a pressure point, the body pulls frequencies of energy from it that activate the part of the nervous system that modulates our responses to stress. The question of what exactly is inside this disc to prompt the sort of communication between neurons the company is so proud of remains a bit murky. The company credits frequency tuning and sound resonance to make its discs work but elsewhere on the site it says that the discs include 'a proprietary blend of inhibitory neurotransmitters, primarily GABA.' But elsewhere, NuCalm's CEO Jim Poole has said the discs each contain a tiny Tesla coil to emit frequencies. The technology was developed over a period of 20 years by the late neuroscientist Dr Blake Holloway. But Mr Poole is not himself a scientist, rather he was a business major from Babson College in Massachusetts. Sophie Summers, a blogger on the Fitness Junkie Blog, said of her experience with a 30-minute session of meditation through the app coupled with the sticker on her wrist: As the beautiful sounds swirled around me I could feel my whole body relax. 'It was as though I could feel my entire body as once but also parts of it individually. My whole body, but especially my arms and chest became very heavy. The thought of moving my arms seemed like an impossible task. But the feeling was so wonderful that I wouldn't dare even try for the fear of losing the deep relaxation. I was calm, relaxed, grounded. The price tag likely will not deter people who pride themselves on being attuned to their personal health, nor will its lofty promises deter so-called wellness gurus who have successfully monetized the quest for self-improvement. Wet weather during August has been blamed on a big surge in pothole-related vehicle breakdowns as surface water 'hid highway defects' from drivers, says the AA. The breakdown assistance provider attended 48,994 callouts last month to vehicles stranded due to faults believed to have been caused by potholes. That's 13 per cent more than in August 2022 and means 2023 is on track to be one of the worst years on record for pothole-related breakdowns. The AA's report comes in the wake of news that local road maintenance in England has hit a four-year low, with local authorities rolling back spending on resurfacing in the previous financial year. Councils in a 'race against time' to fix pothole-riddled roads: The AA says authorities have little time left to fix cratered roads before the autumnal weather sets in The AA says the most common problems caused by potholes in August include damaged shock absorbers, broken suspension springs and distorted wheels. Parts of the UK were hit by heavy rain and thunderstorms last month, which has exacerbated the problem with Britain's crater-riddled streets. The motoring group says local councils now face a 'race against time' to repair as many as possible before the autumnal weather reaches Britain. Roads authorities lost numerous repair days this summer due to the wetter conditions, and are now keeping their fingers crossed for a dry spell to make up for lost time. Jack Cousens, head of roads policy at the AA, said: 'During what felt like a continuous spell of rain throughout August, drivers faced the now familiar challenge of trying to spot potholes lurking beneath the surface of rainwater. 'Some drivers' attempts to avoid damage to tyres, suspensions and steering mechanisms appear to have been in vain as we witnessed another year-on-year increase in pothole-related incidents. 'Councils now have a very small window of time to get as much of their repair work carried out as possible before the real autumn and winter weather hits, meaning their road teams will need to work flat out to restore the roads before the weather really turns against them.' The AA's Pothole Index data shows a 13% rise in pothole-related callouts last month compared to August 2022 The motoring group said heavy spells of rainfall in August had 'hidden' potholes from drivers, who unwittingly drove through what they thought were shallow puddles A Department for Transport spokesman said: 'It's for local authorities to maintain their highways, based on local needs and priorities, and Government is helping by investing over 5 billion to resurface roads including an additional 200million specifically for highway maintenance. 'We've also brought in new rules to clamp down on utility companies leaving potholes behind after carrying out street works.' The AA's report comes just days after it was revealed that just 1,123 miles of roads were resurfaced in the 2021/22 financial year, down 29 per cent compared with four years earlier (1,588 miles). The RAC, after analysing government data on road repairs, said the figures 'confirm worst fears about the overall decline in the state of the country's roads' and many councils are 'barely scratching the surface' when it comes to getting their roads up to a reasonable standard. Of the 153 roads authorities reviewed, 31 per cent conducted no road resurfacing while 51 per cent failed to carry out any 'surface dressing' - the term used for smaller repairs to sections of local roads. In a separate report released last week, Halfords said poorly maintained roads have had repercussions for almost half of drivers it polled who said their vehicle has been damaged as a result - and it costs them an average of 922 to fix. Stephen Gold: Death bed gifts, making codicils, the impact of marriage and divorce, and protecting property Stephen Gold is a retired judge and author who recently wrote a popular series for this is Money on how to be a successful executor. In a new two-part guide, he first explained the wisdom of having a will and today looks at how to avoid common blunders when deciding your last wishes. Hopefully, I have persuaded you of the myriad benefits of making a will, but there still are many errors you might fall into when trying to do the right thing. Here are my tips on what to do before making a will, after you have done so, and if you have left it very late. Do it yourself? I wouldn't recommend it. If you insist on DIY in the most straightforward of cases, then go and buy a will from a stationer and fill it in. But even then, there are technical rules which must be observed and any ambiguity in the words you use could lead to tears. Two witnesses are required and not someone to whom you have made a gift or that will be lost. Some non-lawyer firms carry on the business of will writing for a fee which they can legitimately do. I would steer clear of them. The Competition and Markets Authority has been investigating potential consumer law breaches by will writers and will be reporting in due course. My strong recommendation is to use a solicitor to draw up your will. Next month, free wills month is back (go to freewillsmonth.org.uk). That's a scheme spearheaded by well-respected charities who hope that in return for a free solicitor produced will, you will gift something to one of them. No obligation, of course. You have to be aged at least 55 to qualify. They beat the will aid scheme (go to willaid.org.uk) by one month. This runs in November 2023. Here, participating solicitors will again provide you this time anyone over 18 can take advantage - with a free will and pray you will stump up a gift to charity as a thank you. They suggest 100 for a single will or 180 for two basic mirror wills (see 'The wills duet' below). If you can bear to read my book, you will find The Longest Will in The World (please forgive the poetic license) which should give you some ideas about you would like your will to go. Without it, you may never have thought about giving the proceeds of your Premium Bonds to your next-door neighbour in recognition of all the assistance he has given to you over the years in the cutting of your hedge and lawns and the emptying of your cesspit. The wills duet If each spouse or partner agrees to make mirror wills 'I give to you and you give to me' etc could one of them do the dirty on the other and secretly make a second will which provides for something completely different? The general rule is that while they are both alive, either or both can lawfully change the first will. But the position would be different after one of them died. The beneficiaries under the first will ought to be able to obtain a court order ripping up the second will if they can prove that there had been a no-change commitment by which both spouses or partners had intended to be bound. That commitment could be incorporated in the original wills. 'This will is made pursuant to an agreement between myself and my wife Freda Factor under which she is making a will which, where appropriate, is in substantially the same terms as this will and it is a term of the agreement that neither of us will revoke our respective wills without the written consent of the other.' Home ownership: Make sure this is set up in the way you wish before you or your partner die Jointly owned property Where your home or other property is in the names of both yourself and your spouse or civil partner, you will be taken as owning as joint tenants or tenants in common. Sorry about the lingo but I didn't invent it. If you are joint tenants and one of you dies during ownership, their interest automatically passes to the survivor. That would eliminate the possibility of leaving your interest to a third party such as children. An attempt to do so in your will would be ineffective. You can remedy that situation by changing over to tenants in common. A bit of paperwork but relatively painless. How do you do it? You need a notice of severance which must be given to your co-owner and, where the property is registered at the Land Registry, you should apply to them for registration of what is called a Form A restriction. No fee. To Minnie Mouse, Cheese Cottage, High Street, Titchfield, Hants PO14 4AE I CHARLES MOUSE hereby give you notice of my desire to sever the joint tenancy in equity of and in Cheese Cottage, High Street, Titchfield, Hants PO14 4AE now held by us as joint tenants at law and in equity. Dated 01 September 2023 (signed) Charles Mouse The court would have the power where there are proceedings under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 (see 'Outwitting the disregarded' in part one) to claw back into the estate the interest of the deceased in property which was held as joint tenants and so automatically passed to the other owner. Retired judge and writer Stephen Gold Stephen Gold is author of 'The Return of Breaking Law', a guide to your legal rights and winning in court or losing well. It is published by Bath Publishing and, among a myriad of topics, includes a template for the longest will in the world and tips for removing executors and claiming against an estate when you have been left nothing. That could then make capital available to satisfy the claim being made. Blast! You have made your beautifully crafted will and suddenly remembered you have forgotten the gift to me of your false teeth. Or perhaps you specifically gifted your Skoda and have just bought a Roller. No need to tear up that work of art and start all over again. You can add what is known as a codicil to your will which can be typed or written on the original or on a separate sheet secured to the original. The same witnessing and other rules which applied to the original will equally apply to the codicil. Look, no will We don't have a compulsory system for will registration. If, after your death, your will cannot be found and there is no acceptable evidence about what it had contained, the intestacy laws will be activated. Or if a dissatisfied relative rips up your will - that's a crime so do not try it at home - the same thing could happen, or an earlier will might be acted on. The safest bet is to register the will (and you can add to it any codicil you have made) with the Probate Service and they will store it for a one-off fee of 20. You can withdraw it subsequently for no charge. Probate can never be granted for an earlier will and letters of administration can never be granted on the basis that you died without a will. There are alternatives. The National Will Register, which is a commercial concern, registers the fact that you have made a will and where it is located. Over ten million people have registered. It does not keep the will for you. Useful for establishing whether a will exits when one cannot be found and also whether the forged will being flourished by your long-lost cousin 20 times removed which leaves your entire estate to him is the Real McCoy. Registering a will costs 30. Searching for whether a will exists costs 58.80. And asking for a search to be carried out with law firms and will writers for a possible will which has not been registered will cost 126. These fees are VAT inclusive. Where your solicitor has drafted the will, you can ask them to store it. Almost certainly, they will not charge for doing so - and hope they do not go out of business or have their safe blow open. As a last resort, you could ask your bank to store the will if they have a branch within 100 miles of your home. Most of the banks used to oblige for a fee, of course, but no more although they may still be prepared to hold on to any will you deposited with them before they stopped obliging (though do check if they are now charging and how much). Barclays stopped in 2014 and Lloyds packed it in for new customers in 2011. And I can now put you and Nigel Farage out of misery with the information you were bursting to discover. Coutts will store your will if you are a customer provided you used them to draw it up. So long as you appointed them as executor, they will make no charge for storage. If you did not appoint them as executor, they will make an annual charge. They refuse to tell me how much. I am afraid I have no spare capacity under my bed so please do not ask. Marriage: How does it affect an existing will and what if you get divorced? 'I'm getting married in the morning' Oh dear. Generally, marriage or civil partnership automatically revokes a will. But it will remain effective if it is clear that it was made in contemplation of that particular marriage or partnership. 'This will shall not be revoked by my intended marriage to Freda Factor.' A divorce or annulment of a marriage or dissolution or annulment of a civil partnership will automatically cancel out a will gift to the former spouse or partner or their appointment as executor unless it is clear from the words used in the will that the gift or appointment is to be unaffected. The ultimate way to swindle the Taxman Give the lot away during your lifetime and to hell with a will. Where it is to your UK domiciled spouse or civil partner, capital gains and inheritance taxes are likely to be avoided although they might turf you out of the family home. A genuine gift to someone else during your lifetime will be disregarded for inheritance tax if you survive for seven years. There are partial disregards after three years. The longer you survive, the greater the value of the gift that is ignored on death. More modest gifts can be made each tax year, including on the occasion of a marriage or civil partnership, and be totally disregarded from the value of your estate for inheritance tax purposes, even though you pass away within seven years or less, so long as the prescribed limits are not exceeded. Got a tax question? Heather Rogers, founder and owner of Aston Accountancy, is This is Money's tax columnist. She can answer your questions on any tax topic - tax codes, inheritance tax, income tax, capital gains tax, and much more. You can write to Heather at taxquestions@thisismoney.co.uk. For example, gifting in each tax year of up to 3,000 to one or more individuals or of up to 250 to each of as many people as you can find to take the money (so long as they are different from the 3,000 recipients) will be okay and win you plenty of friends in the bargain. Gifts on birthdays and at Christmas are also exempt from inheritance tax when made out of your regular income and there are exemptions too for gifts to certain charities and political parties. An accountant's advice is sensible before you ask Coutts to make the transfer. 'I'll do it my way' If your way is a late verbal announcement with no will, that's dodgy. The law on so-called death bed gifts gifts made in contemplation of death is strict. To be effective, you must have had good reason to anticipate death in the near future from an identified cause. It must have been intended to take effect if and when death occurred so that you could cancel it at any time. And you must have given over physical possession of the gift title deeds to a property would do - or some means of accessing it. In a 2015 case, the Court of Appeal heard that four to six months before her death, an elderly cat and dog loving aunt had handed her nephew the title deeds to her home, saying 'This is yours when I go'. But her legally effective will had given everything, including the home, to seven animal charities. It was ruled that the gift to the nephew did not count because it had not been made in contemplation of death. The aunt had not been suffering from any terminal illness but simply approaching the end of her life span. 'Well, I never!' If you could not tell the difference between inheritance tax and margarine and your will would lead to a tax bill which could have been avoided if drawn up more efficiently, do you have to be recalled from the dead to put things right? No. The Inheritance Tax Act 1984 enables a will to be rewritten just once with the agreement of all beneficiaries concerned so that it escapes all or some of the inheritance tax which would have been payable under the will as drawn. Even new beneficiaries can be added. The same law can be used with the same result where there was no will and intestacy applies. Certain procedural steps must be observed, and action needs to be taken within two years of death. Independent professional advice to beneficiaries wanting to take advantage of this law is highly desirable. Today, it is hard to think of a time when Baroness Marie-Christine von Reibnitz was not Princess Michael of Kent. She married Prince Michael, a cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II, in 1978 and has been a public figure ever since, known both for her striking Germanic appearance as well as the 'Princess Pushy' moniker she attracted over time. Yet Marie-Christine had been married once before - to the late Thomas Troubridge. And they exchanged vows for this short-lived partnership at Chelsea Old Church more than half a century ago in September 1971 - where ushers reported the couple had a blazing row in the vestry. They were divorced six years later after Marie-Christine became involved with Prince Michael. Prince Michael of Kent and Baroness Marie-Christine von Riebnitz pose outside the British Embassy in Vienna after marrying in a civil ceremony at the City Hall in 1978 The late Thomas Troubridge was Princess Michael's first husband. They tied the knot in 1971 but the marriage was short-lived Prince and Princess Michael of Kent at Ascot this year Marie-Christine, now 78, is said to have met the Queens first cousin not long after her first wedding, while staying at Barnwell Manor in Northamptonshire, home of Troubridges old school friend Prince William of Gloucester. The pair grew close while her marriage began to disintegrate when Troubridge was posted to Bahrain. She said: For a long time we [she and Michael] cried on each others shoulders. I saw him, for a year, simply as a friend. Now Im glad we had that time because friendship is something you never lose. For nearly 30 years he maintained a discreet and dignified silence over his tumultuous marriage to Princess Michael of Kent. But whatever secrets Old Etonian banker Thomas Troubridge might have kept hidden about his six-year union to the controversial Princess have now gone with him to his grave. For Troubridge died in 2015 aged 75. He had been enjoying a shooting weekend with friends in Dorset where he suffered a heart attack. After her divorce, Marie-Christine obtained an annulment in the hope that the Pope would allow her to marry Prince Michael in a Roman Catholic ceremony. When this was initially refused, the couple wed in Vienna Town Hall in 1978. But the Pope eventually did annul the marriage, allowing them to have a Roman Catholic ceremony in 1983 at Archbishop's House near Westminster Cathedral. Speaking to the Daily Mail the month before her marriage to Prince Michael, Marie-Christine described their first meeting, saying: 'I thought Prince Michael was the funniest man I had ever met. We just kept talking and laughing together.' The prince recalled his first encounter with the 6ft, blonde baroness, saying: 'I was very struck by this tall Austrian lady. I was very impressed. 'I remember we had a long talk about history of art, sitting in a hut eating sausages.' Marie-Christine's first marriage began to disintegrate when Troubridge was posted to Bahrain; she and Prince Michael grew close. She said: For a long time we cried on each others shoulders. I saw him, for a year, simply as a friend. Now Im glad we had that time because friendship is something you never lose.' The couple faced a series of hurdles in their attempt to wed, with Marie-Christine describing the road to marriage as 'a very long and a very, very tortuous one.' According to the 1701 Act of Settlement, a member of the Royal Family was unable to marry a Roman Catholic while the Church of England barred the marriage of divorced persons in church. Prince and Princess Michael of Kent together at Ascot in the 1980s. They married twice: first in a civil ceremony in Vienna in 1978, then in a Catholic ceremony in 1983 after Marie-Christine's first marriage was annulled A scene from the civil wedding in Vienna. The Duke of Kent, Prince Michael's brother is far left, talking to their sister Princess Alexandra. Prince and Princess Michael are centre. Then left to right: Angus Ogilvy, Princess Anne, Lady Helen Windsor and Lord Mountbatten Prince Michael and Marie-Christine pictured after the announcement of their engagement Princess Michael's wedding ring is admired following the civil ceremony in 1978 He later retrieved his rights of succession thanks to the Succession to the Crown Act 2013 (which removed both the prohibition on Catholics and the presumption in favour of male heirs). After the breakdown of his marriage, Troubridge worked as President of British merchant bank Kleinwort Benson in New York, where he chose to remain for a number of years in order to avoid his exs social circle. He subsequently married an Austrian, Petronella von Woyrsch, in 1981. Social media accounts show what happens once they arrive in places like Ghana and Nigeria Canadian investigators have uncovered the fate of stolen cars as they are found sitting in lots in Africa Hundreds of vehicles were intercepted at US ports in 2023 and the number is on the rise Cars with foreign plates have been showing up in Africa in staggering numbers, with the majority hailing from Canada and the United States. A whopping 80 percent of stolen vehicles in Canada are said to leave the country's ports and most end up in countries like Ghana. Authorities have also noticed an increase in the number of stolen cars departing the United States for West Africa. An ongoing investigation has seized cars at major shipping ports like New Jersey and Baltimore. In August, Homeland Security said it had already seized about 300 stolen vehicles at the Port of Newark this year, marking a a 32 percent increase from last year. Many vehicles are carjacked, a process that is becoming easier with push-to-start technology. Syndicates will retag a stolen car by altering its Vehicle Identification Number, or VIN, a unique serial number. The international gangs may then obtain a counterfeit Certificate of Title, which serves as the official proof of ownership, to match the new VIN. The cars are then sold to people who will ship them overseas. Some gangs may use the sale of these vehicles to fuel other crimes like money laundering and the purchase of drugs. Stolen vehicles are crudely packed into shipping containers on their way to Africa. An Instagram story from a dealership in Nigeria shows sedans stacked one on top of the other An ABC investigation found stolen cars crammed into shipping containers, covered with mattresses and other pieces of cargo A TikTok video shows a white car being rolled out of a storage container. The car appears to belong to Lauzon Driving School in Canada and is even stamped with their phone number Cars on the @dpgglowauto Instagram account hail from luxury brands like Lexus and Mercedes Benz and can be seen with license plates from Michigan A Florida plate appears in several photos on Instagram, used as a prop on different cars Customs and Border Protection Officer Dean Panzarino showed Eyewitness News how thieves packed cars into shipping containers, padding them with mattresses and tying chains to the wheels to suspend them in midair. Some had been disassembled to be put back together in Africa. An estimated 10 percent of stolen cars in the United States are believed to end up overseas. HSI agents look at anomalies in trends relating to imports and exports and often conduct random searches. 'No, this is something that I just targeted cold,' Panzarino said when asked if he knew who the smugglers were. 'I believe these will end up being a seizure.' Those cars may have been intercepted but other times are not so lucky. Social media accounts show the fate of vehicles sent to places like Nigeria. Some have US plates still attached. Others are marketed as 'foreign used,' a term indicating that they may have been stolen and sent abroad. A TikTok account advertising DPG Glow Auto, a dealership in Onitsha, shows cars with foreign license plates and decals being rolled out of shipping containers. One, a white Toyota Corolla labeled as 'foreign used,' is emblazoned with a logo from Lauzon Driving School in Canada. The windows are rolled down and the sunroof seems to have been punched in and covered with a piece of cardboard. The car is brimming with what appear to be packages. The comment section is rife with remarks reading 'Straight out of Quebec' and 'Stolen car from Canada'. License plates from California, Minnesota, Texas and Florida can be seen in Instagram photos from the dealership. The same Florida plate is used on different cars in multiple photos. An Instagram highlight shows two sedans stacked atop each other in a shipping crate. Other videos show vehicles being unloaded out of the containers using crudely constructed wooden ramps. The cars are often older models of luxury brands like Lexus and Land Rover as well as the odd family SUV. 'Foreign used' may act as a buzzword indicating that a car is stolen, seen here on the marketplace Jiji Working with @StateINL and @FBI, @EOCOghana has identified more than 100 luxury vehicles stolen from the and for resale in Ghana. pic.twitter.com/lltiSUKeMb U.S. Embassy Ghana (@USEmbassyGhana) May 9, 2023 Even on Jiji, an African online marketplace, cars are being sold under the 'foreign used' label, especially more luxurious brands. A common name is Brabus, a German aftermarket tuning company that specializes in Mercedes Benz vehicles. One of the 'foreign used' Brabus cars was a 2014 model being sold for 67.5million Nigerian Naira, roughly $86,000 USD. An investigation by CBC identified dozens of vehicles that wound up in Ghana after they were stolen from Ontario and Quebec. Most had their registration and insurance documents still in the glove box. Journalists discovered a vehicle belonging to Toronto man Len Green and called him upon finding a certificate with his phone number. 'I'm pretty sure I'm sitting in your once-stolen vehicle in West Africa,' the reporter said. 'No way,' Green said. He recounted his wife's shock upon finding that the car had gone missing from their driveway. Ring footage captured the moment a car pulled up to his house around 3am. Two men got out and approached the Acura. A mere four minutes later, it was gone. Det.-Sgt. Mark Haywood of Peel Regional Police told the publication that a large number of stolen cars were leaving Canada. 'You'll see about 80 percent of them going out through the ports,' he said. In 2022, Toronto native Ahmad Abdallah was contacted by journalists from CTV News after they found his car in Lagos, Nigeria. When he saw a video of his 2017 Toyota Highlander for sale online, Abdallah was appalled. 'There should be more people looking into itwere talking millions of dollars,' he said. 'This has to be taken seriously.' Vehicle theft is an ongoing problem is the United States as well. In May, the US Embassy in Ghana tweeted that it had seized over 100 cars stolen from the US and Canada. Ghana's Economic and Organised Crime Office was said to be working alongside the FBI and US Department of State International Narcotics and Law Enforcement. There have also been efforts to prevent cars from leaving the United States in the first place. On February 13, US Customs and Border Protection began 'Operation Terminus' to detect and recover stolen vehicles at the Port of New York and New Jersey. The five-day operation came to an end on February 17 as the agency seized 23 cars that had been crammed into shipping containers on their way to West Africa. The cars were on their way to Togo, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Monrovia and Liberia and had a combined estimated value of $1.33million. Three BMWs and two Land Rovers were among the pricier items, with the most expensive - a 2022 BMW X 5M - priced at $102,995. Top 10 Stolen Vehicles in Canada Make/model Generation # of vehicles insured # of thefts Theft % (per cars insured) Honda CR-V 2016-2021 236,555 4,117 1.7% Lexus RX Series 2016-2021 34,560 2,202 6.4% Ford F150 Series 2015-2020 292,127 1,182 0.4% Honda Civic 2016-2021 263,958 768 0.3% Toyota Highlander 2013-2019 64,893 748 1.2% Ram 1500 Series 2011-2018 295,341 509 0.2% Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra 1500 1999-2006 71,078 410 0.6% Honda Accord 2018-2021 28,692 372 1.3% Jeep Grand Cherokee 2011-2020 85,528 346 0.4% Toyota RAV4 2013-2018 217,006 334 0.2% Source: Equite Association Equite Association, a nonprofit that investigates insurance fraud on behalf of member insurance companies, released its yearly report showing the most commonly stolen vehicles jn Canada for 2022. President and CEO Terri O'Brien said: 'There is no doubt that vehicle theft has reached a national crisis in this country. 'We know for certain that vehicles in Canada are being stolen by domestic and international criminal organizations.' She argued that Canada has been put in the spotlight as a source country for illegal trade. The 2022 report exposed double-digit increases in vehicle theft in provinces where data was available. Thefts were up 48.3 percent year over year in Ontario and 50 percent year over year in Quebec. 'The techniques the criminals are employing are constantly evolving and becoming more sophisticated, said Bryan Gast, the organization's VP of Investigative Services. Equite Association has argued for the government to update Canada's Federal Motor Safety Regulations, as the existing laws were written in 2007, without any consideration for push button start technologies. In a press release dated August 2023, the nonprofit called on Transport Canada to take action. 'Criminals are now taking advantage of the outdated standards,' Gast said. 'They are able to quickly and easily exploit these vulnerabilities, which has led to this significant increase in stolen vehicles across Canada.' Equite Association recommended anti-theft devices be installed in every new vehicle. These devices should be under three years old to remain up to date with new technology. In April, EOCO in Ghana released a list of 95 stolen vehicles that had been shipped from the US and identified the dealerships where cars had been found. The office secured an order to freeze all the cars and demanded individuals and dealers submit all documents by May 31, or law enforcement agencies would confiscate them. EOCO's deputy director Abdulai Bashiru Dapilah told CBC that his investigators faced threats from armed groups and begged Canada to stop the flow of vehicles before they reached Africa. However, he added: 'No Canadian agency has approached us directly or made a formal complaint directly.' The issue doesn't seem to be dying down any time soon, as authorities intercepted and seized 18 vehicles and a farm combine at the Port of Baltimore on September 1. The seized vehicles had a combined estimated value of $428,306. 'One of the reasons that the Port of Baltimore is such a hot spot for stolen automobiles is our shipping routes,' Adam Rottman, area port director for the Port of Baltimore, told 11 News. 'One of the main places that stolen automobiles are headed to is West Africa, and we have a lot of shipping routes to West Africa.' The Royal Family has had a long love affair with France, from Queen Victoria's ground-breaking visit in 1855 onwards. But few senior members will have experienced such strong personal feelings about its capital city as King Charles, who is due to be there once again when the postponed state visit begins on September 20. For him, Paris is the site of dramatic and, in their different ways, tragic episodes: the final sad denouement of the Abdication Crisis in a Bois de Boulogne mansion and the terrible death of Diana, mother to his two boys, in August 1997. Charless adult visits to France began in 1970, with that memorial for Charles De Gaulle, leader of the Free French forces during the years of the German occupation and later president of the Fifth Republic. The Shah of Iran, Prince Harald of Norway and 21-year-old Prince Charles attend a Mass for the late General de Gaulle at Notre Dame in 1970 The Duchess of Windsor, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Charles at the Villa Windsor in the Bois de Boulogne in May 1972. The Duke of Windsor was by now terminally ill Edward VIII makes his abdication broadcast to the nation and the Empire in December 1936 De Gaulle had a complicated relationship with the British grateful for its wartime solidarity with the French, but determined for the United Kingdom not to become part of the European project. Charles's presence at the memorial service, just before his 22nd birthday, confirmed his importance as his mothers representative. Some 18 months later, he accompanied the Queen and his father, Prince Philip, on a state visit to France, which also gave them the opportunity to pay a personal visit to the Duke and Duchess of Windsor at their mansion on the edge of the Bois de Boulogne. The visit wasn't part of the official business of the visit yet was, as the Queens biographer, Ben Pimlott, put it, 'diplomatic, rather than personal a well thought-out gesture of forgiveness, much publicised'. By this stage, the Duke was terminally ill with cancer and it is not clear that anyone aside from the Queen, his niece, went to his bedside on this occasion. Charles had, however, already met the duke. He had made a private visit the previous autumn to see the last man to hold the title of Prince of Wales before him. He must have been curious to meet the man blamed by the rest of his family for putting the monarchy itself in peril by abdicating in 1936 to marry Mrs Simpson after a brief period as king. The Queen Mother could never forgive him for abdicating, blaming David - as the family knew him - for the early death of her husband, George VI, who was obliged to become king in his place. When Charles raised the possibility that the Duke and Duchess of Windsor might visit the family in Britain, his grandmother refused to countenance it. So in the autumn of 1971, Charles made a private visit to Paris, facilitated by the British Ambassador to France, Sir Christopher Soames, a son-in-law of Sir Winston Churchill and father of Charless great friend, the former MP Nicholas Soames. The Duke and Duchess were living in some splendour. Charles noted that they were surrounded by sycophants, that their servants wore the same livery as those at Buckingham Palace and that his great-uncle David kept a government red box, monogrammed with The King, on prominent display. Charles later described the visit to his official biographer, Jonathan Dimbleby, highlighting his great-uncles self-pity and resentment. He had been expansive, he said, talking 'about how difficult my family had made it for him for the past 33 years.' 'I asked him frankly if he would like to return to England for the last years of his life, and he hesitated to ask Wallis if he should give me the works. 'It sounded as though he would have liked to have returned but no one would have recognised him. I assured him that that would not be the case. 'The whole thing seemed so tragic the existence, the people and the atmosphere I was relieved to escape it after 45 minutes and drive round Paris by night.' The Duke and Duchess of Windsor's home in Paris, in Bois de Boulogne where Charles noted that they were surrounded by sycophants and that their servants wore the same livery as those at Buckingham Palace. Mohammed Fayed renamed it Villa Windsor Prince Charles shakes the hand of the Duchess of Windsor on arriving at her home in May 1972 By the time Prince Charles accompanied his parents to see the Duke in mid-May 1972, the Dukes condition had deteriorated, and he was barely able to speak. He spent a few minutes with his niece whom he had barely ever seen since the Abdication. He died 10 days later, and was finally brought back to Britain for his funeral and burial at Frogmore. The young Prince of Wales would later have cause to think once again of Edward VIII and his plight forced to give up the throne because of his love of a divorced woman - although things worked out more happily for Charles. Charles had clearly disliked the atmosphere of the Duke and Duchesss Paris house a feeling that would prove grimly prescient given the role it was to play years later. The house, at 4 Route du Champ dEntrainement on the edge of the Bois de Boulogne and within the chic 16th arrondissement of Paris, was leased by the City of Paris to the Duke and Duchess of Windsor from 1952 to 1986. When the Duchess passed away, it was the turn of businessman and Harrods owner, the late Mohammed Fayed to lease the house from the City of Paris, renaming it Villa Windsor. By the summer of 1997, Fayed had invited Diana, Princess of Wales by then divorced from Prince Charles to spend part of the holidays with his family in the south of France. Photos of the Princess with Fayed's son Dodi went around the world. On Saturday August 30, Dodi got the chance to to show her the Al Fayeds Parisian spoils the Ritz Hotel and the Villa Windsor. They visited Villa Windsor on their way into Paris from Le Bourget Airport. After abandoning a later plan to eat out at a fashionable Paris restaurant, they dined at the Ritz. But rather than stay the night in their suite at the hotel, they took the fatal decision to set off by car, driven by Henri Paul, to an apartment owned by Dodi on the other side of Paris. Princess Diana can be partially seen behind the bodyguard Trevor Rees-Jones shortly before the fatal crash. Henri Paul is at the wheel The wreckage of Princess Diana's car in the Alma tunnel Prince Charles was met by French president, Jacques Chirac at the Pitie Salpetriere Hospital in Paris where Diana, Princess of Wales died earlier that day Diana and bodyguard Trevor Rees-Jones the only passenger wearing a seat-belt survived the notorious crash in the Pont de L'Alma tunnel, but by 4am, Diana was declared dead. Charles was at Balmoral with the rest of the Royal Family, including William and Harry, when they received the dreadful news. The Prince of Wales flew from Aberdeen to Paris, travelling with Dianas sisters, Lady Jane Fellowes, wife of the Queens private secretary, Robert Fellowes and Lady Sarah McCorquodale, a former girlfriend of Charles before Diana. Also on the way to Paris were Paul Burrell, Dianas butler, and Colin Tebbutt, Dianas driver-cum-minder. It was clear that the tensions evident between Dianas camp and the Royal Family, that had soured her last years, would continue after her death. 'There was no question of leaving Diana's recovery to the Establishment, as far as we were concerned,' Tebutt told the Mail in 2021. 'She had nothing to do with Buckingham Palace any more, or the Prince of Wales. She was our boss and we would look after her still.' Burrell and Tebbutt caught a 7.30 am flight from Heathrow, packed with journalists covering the Princesss death: the Prince of Waless party would not arrive until some hours later. At the hospital, Diana had been laid out, not in the mortuary, but in a private room, and the hospitals Roman Catholic chaplain, Father Yves-Marie Clochard-Bossuet, stayed with her for 10 hours, praying by her bedside. He was joined in prayer for some time by Bernadette Chirac, wife of the French president, Jacques Chirac. Among the others who visited the hospital was the French interior minister, Jean-Pierre Chevenement, the French Prime Minister Lionel Jospin, the British Ambassador Sir Michael Jay and the Consul-General Keith Moss, all waiting to greet the Prince of Waless party. Princess Diana's sisters, Lady Sarah McCorquodale and Lady Jane Fellowes, wife of the Queen's private secretary, Robert Fellowes, accompany Prince Charles to collect Diana's body French Interior Minister, Jean-Pierre Chevenement listens as Dr Bruno Riou announces Princess Diana's death By the time the Prince arrived with Dianas grief-stricken sisters, the Princesss body had been attended to by undertakers. According to Tebbutt, Paul Burrell arranged her hair, the French undertakers carried out the embalming process. She had been changed into a black woollen dress provided by Madame Chirac. By the time Charles and Dianas sisters enter the room, a photograph of William and Harry, found in her handbag, together with a rosary, given to her by Mother Teresa of Calcutta, have been placed in her hands. The Anglican Archdeacon of France, Martin Draper, had joined Father Clochard-Bossuet in the room, and he led prayers said before Dianas body with the Prince of Wales and her sisters present. As they had travelled to Paris, Lady Sarah had asked Charles about transporting the coffin once it arrived in the UK. 'One things for sure,' he said. 'Shes not going into London in a green carriage drawn by horses' a clear reference to Fayeds Harrods store. But once they landed in London, Dianas body was taken to the most humble of places: the Hammersmith and Fulham mortuary for a post-mortem. The Prince flew back to Balmoral to be with the couples bereft sons. It would be another six years after the death of the woman the French always called Lady Di before Charles ventured to Paris once more on that occasion alone. The first time that Camilla joined him was three years after their 2005 marriage when they were entertained to dinner by President Nicolas Sarkozy another man with marital complications and his third wife, Carla Bruni. They then attended a service of commemoration on Armistice Day, November 11. Then, in 2015, came a much happier trip for Charles, when he attended the 21st UN conference on climate change. While Charles comments were gloomy: 'On an increasingly crowded planet, humanity faces many threats, but none is greater than climate change. It magnifies every hazard and tension of our existence,' he told delegates The fact that he had been asked to give the opening address alongside the UN climate chief, Christiana Figueres and French foreign minister, Laurent Fabius, would surely have pleased him, indicating that he was taken seriously as a world figure. There was further endorsement from the French. Their Institute of Science and Arts awarded him the Francois Rabelais prize, named after the Renaissance scholar and physician, for his support of organic farming. He took it as an opportunity to praise French cheese and warn of the threat to its many varieties from genetically modified products. 'What will become of the Brie de Meaux, the Crottin de Chavignol or the Bleu dAuvergne?' he asked. Bernadette Chirac stayed at Princess Diana's side for some time after her death . She prayed with Father Yves-Marie Clochard-Bossuet in a private room in the hospital. The two women are pictured in 1995 'In a microbe-free, progressive and genetically engineered future, what hope is there for the old-fashioned Fourme dAmbert, the mal-formed Gruyere de Comte or the odorous Pont LEveque?' The prince said that while it may sound 'silly' to say so, 'a very important part of the whole magnificent edifice of European civilisation rests on the inherited genius and craftsmanship of the people who make such distinguished concoctions.' A highlight of the September 20 state visit will be the Kings address to the National Assembly the first British monarch ever to do so. But his attention may well be on the menu of the State Banquet and which of the great cheeses he so admires will be on offer. President Biden's 'stupid' policies are allowing Chinese spies to use the southern border to gain entry into the U.S. and pose a long-term threat to national security, warns a top Republican. House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Mark Green, R-Tenn., told DailyMail.com that there has been a 'massive increase' of Chinese nationals tied to the People's Liberation Army (PLA) that have gained access to the U.S. by crossing over the border. And there have been over 17,800 Chinese nationals released into the U.S. this year alone, he claimed. Green called the 'stupidity' of the Biden administration's border policies currently in place 'mind-blowing' because now Chinese spies could act as 'saboteurs' in the same manner Russian military men established residency in Ukraine before the invasion. 'Look, the Russians did just that. They infiltrated migration. Middle aged military men, you know, go into Ukraine, established residency, and then they were the saboteurs during the invasion.' He said he's 'not suggesting' that China will invade the U.S., but if America were to defend Taiwan against a CCP-led attack, 'who's to say there isn't the saboteur in that in that line?' 'Why are we just so willy nilly about this?' continued Green, who is vowing to get to the bottom of it. He plans to direct his committee to hold hearings in the future on the threat of Chinese infiltrators using the southern border. House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Mark Green, R-Tenn., told DailyMail.com that there has been a 'massive increase' of Chinese nationals tied to the People's Liberation Army (PLA) that have gained access to the U.S. by crossing over the border The number of illegal migrants have increased over the summer months. In June, there was a reported 100,000 migrants, an estimated 132,000 in July and reportedly over 177,000 who crossed into the U.S. in August. Last week, a shocking new report alleged that there have been more than 100 instances in which U.S. military bases were infiltrated by Chinese nationals. The Chinese nationals posed as 'tourists' wandered onto a missile launch site in New Mexico, as first reported by the Wall Street Journal. In addition, some reportedly staged as scuba divers in order to get close to a Florida rocket launch site, while others claimed to be staying on an Army base in Alaska. Th operatives have reportedly claimed to be tourists who are 'lost' and unable to find their way to a Burger King or McDonalds coincidentally close to a U.S. military base. Government officials say that Chinese nationals are often 'pressed into service' and required to report their findings back to the Chinese government. Fort Wainright in Alaska, the center of the US military's operations in the Arctic, was the subject of an apparent espionage attempt, the Wall Street Journal reports Helicopters fly over a mountain range near Fort Wainwright, Alaska House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Mark Green, R-Tenn., also told DailyMail.com Tuesday that an impeachment of DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas is a very real possibility following new bombshell findings he will make public this week. 'Yes, there's a potential that we could turn this into an inquiry now, and I think it's the first time I've said it in the media actually,' he said during an exclusive interview. 'We need to know if Mayorkas understands, you know, if he's just really as stupid as this appears. Or is this he understands what's going on and just doesn't seem to care?' Former DHS agent Tim Ballard, whose harrowing tale about rescuing children from sex slavery is featured in the film 'The Sound of Freedom,' has blamed the Biden administration's policies for child sex slavery at the border. 'It's absolutely horrifying and it's all due to one thing - U.S. border policy is creating all of this,' Ballard said. The Biden administration has lost track of over 85,000 unaccompanied minors that have come across the border into the U.S. over the last several years, said Ballard who served as a special agent for the Department of Homeland Security for over a decade. The children become easy 'prey for the traffickers' creating an 'alarming predicament' that he says is being largely ignored by the Biden administration. As a result, he says that Mayorkas should face further investigation by Congress. 'Yes, I would absolutely support an impeachment inquiry into Mayorkas,' Ballard told DailyMail.com ahead of the hearing Wednesday, because children's lives are 'being destroyed.' 'They're being kidnapped, they're being trafficked, they're being raped,' he continued. 'So if we have a secretary who's completely ignoring the those facts, and ignoring the plight of those children, then absolutely I would support an impeachment inquiry.' Border Czar VP Kamala Harris and the entire Biden administration have shown a 'disregard for the plight of these poor children,' says Ballard. 'Yes, I would absolutely support an impeachment inquiry into Mayorkas,' Ballard told DailyMail.com Former DHS agent Tim Ballard - who inspired the film Sound of Freedom - says Biden admin's policies are to blame for child trafficking A migrant walks with a child as they along with others continue their journey to the U.S. border, in Acandi, Colombia, July 9, 2023 Republicans announced Tuesday that they are opening a formal impeachment inquiry into President Biden over his connections to his son Hunter's business dealings. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy told Republicans investigating president's links to Hunter's foreign business deals that impeachment is the 'next logical step.' He next announced the launch of an impeachment inquiry into Joe and his family's 'culture of corruption.' The White House has maintained that Joe has never been involved in Hunter's dealings and so far, the GOP has 'turned up no evidence of wrongdoing.' Chairman Green said Tuesday that 'Republicans need to walk and chew gum at the same time' regarding the two potential impeachments. 'It is perfectly fitting and proper for various committees of jurisdiction to investigate the failures and malfeasance of officials serving in or connected to the Biden administration simultaneously, he said. Despite countless injuries and deaths, many buses are still seatbelt-less For years, campaigners have warned there is a secret killer on America's roads, endangering millions of children and motorists - school buses. This week, 11 children and two adults were rushed to hospital when their school bus slammed into a Honda Accord in Bel Air, Maryland. The shocking crash was preceded by another in Pennsylvania just one week earlier, which left 49 kids and two adults hospitalized after the school bus slammed into a tow truck. Indeed, an average of 121 fatalities are recorded every year in school bus-related crashes, with a staggering 26,000 children injured, according to data tracking site Gitnux Market Data. It's led campaigners to warn that the seatbelt-less, aging shuttles are putting lives at risk. And while concerned parents may be shocked to learn these statistics, many have been asking for some time: Why won't America upgrade its school buses? A slew of recent school bus crashes have raised questions over the safety of the vehicles, which transport over 25 million children every day. Pictured: A school bus after a horror crash that hospitalized 49 kids and two adults in Pennsylvania on September 6 Disturbing statistics show that the buses are dangerous both through a lack of seat belts, and the risk the huge vehicles pose to other drivers. Pictured: A huge multi-car pileup following a school bus crash in North Carolina in May 2022, hospitalizing 15 kids Today, school buses are America's largest mass transit system, with more than 25 million schoolchildren riding over 480,000 school buses each day, according to the American School Bus Council. Of the 26,000-school bus related injuries, 54 percent are due to automobile accidents directly involving the buses, with a large majority of deaths coming from other motorists colliding with the cumbersome vehicles. The trend has seen horror crashes spring up in states including Ohio, Massachusetts and Maryland in recent weeks, but one of the root causes of the problem may be buried deeper - the lack of seatbelts in school buses across the country. The reason has left some scratching their heads, as the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration stipulates that only buses with a gross weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less must be equipped with seatbelts. While this sounds high, most school buses are around 25,000 pounds, and officials have seemingly settled on a system of 'compartmentalization'. Eight states have legislation mandating seatbelts on school buses, leaving the other 42 with the option of leaving millions of schoolchildren only 'secured' by tightly packed and padded seats. For evidence over the shortcomings with this approach, shocking footage from inside a horror school bus crash reveals how unsecured kids are sent flying when the weighty machines overturn. But while drivers - who have seatbelts - may be blamed for some crashes, it appears that the buses may be dangerous even while stationary, with more than 3,000 injuries reported every year from children merely climbing on and off the bus. Campaigners have warned that the lack of seatbelts in favor of tight, cushioned 'compartments' on school buses is a dangerous flaw Despite countless children being sent to the hospital, the NHTSA has defended keeping the 'solution' over shelling out for some upgrades. 'There is no question that seatbelts play an important role in keeping passengers safe in these vehicles,' the authority said, according to MotorBiscuit. 'But school buses are different by design, including a different kind of safety restraint system that works extremely well.' Although the transit body may claim they work 'extremely well', one person arguing against that claim is Rudy Breglia, 75, a safety campaigner who launched organization School Bus Seat Belt Safety Alliance in 2016 after a deadly crash in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It was one of the worst in recent memory where six students tragically lost their lives. Aiden Clark tragically lost his life last month in a crash in Springfield, Ohio - which also injured 27 other students Breglia says he has spent seven years pleading with officials to listen, conceding that the lack of action has him increasingly concerned. 'I feel I have to get it done before that big crash occurs,' he told NPR last month. Some might argue it already has - repeatedly. Breglia spoke after elementary school student Aiden Clark, 11, tragically died last month when he was thrown from a bus when his school bus overturned in Springfield, Ohio. The same crash also saw over two dozen students injured, none of whom had the option of a seatbelt, unlike the driver. While it is true that a high number of school bus fatalities involve the other vehicle in the collision, the numbers will be little comfort to parents sending their kids off to school every morning. After the devastating crash that killed the 11-year-old, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine singled out the tragedies in his state as the reason for launching a task force to investigate the issue. 'We can make it safer and thats what we want to look at,' he said. 'Seatbelts are certainly one of the things that this task force will look at, but theyll look at other things. Theyll see if we missed anything over the years (such as) patrol inspection, the buses, the bus driver.' The school bus that Aiden Clark was flung from, and 27 other students were injured, had no seatbelts, and its considerable weight caused the vehicle to overturn Rudy Breglia, a school bus safety campaigner, has spent seven years frustrated at a lack of action over the lack of seat belts on school buses, but says he is more determined than ever because he 'has to get it done before that big crash occurs' Before DeWine brought the issue to a task force, there were signs that the fleet of school buses littering America's streets were slowly receiving environment-friendly improvements. In June 2023, the Department of Transportation announced it was awarding almost $1.7 billion in grants to buy low-emission buses in 46 states and territories. The grants will go towards buying around 1,700 of the eco buses, a fairly small fraction of the 480,000 school buses on America's roads. The concerns come amid an ongoing school bus driver shortage that is causing chaos nationwide - with kids arriving late or not getting home until after dark. HopSkipDrive, which offers school transportation services, released data suggesting driver shortages are on the rise, with 92 percent of school leaders reporting operation issues as a result. The issue has pushed school districts in states including Kentucky, Illinois and Florida to rethink their transportation plans which led to mass delays, cancelled classes and stranded kids. Serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer bragged to his father about his sick trophies in a never-before-heard prison phone call, a new documentary has revealed. Dahmer killed 17 young men and boys in Wisconsin and Ohio between 1978 and 1991, raping and cannibalizing his victims. He was convicted in 1992 of his crimes. In new phone recordings, Dahmer can be heard telling his father, Lionel, about an incident between them which nearly 'came to blows' at his grandmother's home in Wisconsin. 'Remember when you visited grandma? Remember that small, one-by-one square foot box?', Dahmer asked his father from prison, in a new tape set to air on Monday on FOX Nation's documentary My Son Jeffrey: The Dahmer Family Tapes 'You know what was in it, don't you?' he said. 'The mummified head and genitals of the last victim at the West Allis location'. VIDEO TO BE PUT HERE 3017661 In new phone recordings, Dahmer can be heard telling his father, Lionel, about an incident between them which nearly 'came to blows' at his grandmother's home in Wisconsin The serial killer had been sent to live with his grandmother, Catherine, in 1981 after being discharged from the army for excessive drinking. He admitted to murdering three of his victims there after meeting them at nightclubs or the local baths. Dahmer would drug them and take them to the three-bedroom home before strangling and dismembering them in the basement. One of his victims, Steven Tuomi, he killed in a nearby hotel but kept his mummified remains in his grandmother's basement. He lived with his grandmother for nine years but moved out in 1990 after she asked him to leave because of his heavy drinking and strange behaviors. The documentary, which airs on September 18, reveals new details of the relationship between Dahmer and his father, Lionel. Lionel, now 87, can be heard in the never-before-heard recording telling his son that he believed he had been hiding pornography at his grandmother's house. Dahmer starts the conversation by saying: 'One thing I wanted to share with you. Remember when you visited Grandma? Remember that small, one-by-one square-foot box? The documentary, which airs on September 18, reveals new details of the relationship between Dahmer and his father, Lionel The serial killer had been sent to live with his grandmother, Catherine, in 1981 after being discharged from the army for excessive drinking In another recording, Lionel can be heard telling his son that he had 'weird thoughts' when he was younger but he was 'never caught' 'It was wooden, but it had a metal covering, and you were very insistent that I opened that up because you thought I had pornography magazines.' 'Yes that's right I did', replies Lionel. 'I never thought anything more than that'. His son continues: 'I was arguing with you because I didn't want to open it up. We almost came to blows, so I went out the door and I came in again two minutes later. 'I apologized and everything and you were on your way down to the basement to break the locks to open the case.' It is unclear who the mummified remains in the box belonged to, with Dahmer killing Jamie Doxtator, Richard Guerrero, and Anthony Sears at the location. In another recording, Lionel can be heard telling his son that he had 'weird thoughts' when he was younger but he was 'never caught.' The correspondence took place between the father and his twisted son during his time in prison, before he was murdered. Records show that Lionel now lives with his second wife, Shari, in Seville, Ohio, around 25 miles west of Akron. He has been divorced from his son's mother, Joyce, since 1978 after she had an affair. Dahmer was found guilty of murdering (L-R) Curtis Straughter, Steven Mark Hicks, Ricahrd Guerrero, Jeremy Weinberger, Jamie Doxtator, Ricky Beeks, Oliver Lacy, Errol Lindsey, Konerak Sinthasomphone, Ernest Miller, Anthony Hughes, Joseph Bradehoft , Matt Turner, Anthony Sears, David C Thomas and Edward Smith It is unclear who the mummified remains in the box belonged to, with Dahmer killing Jamie Doxtator, Richard Guerrero, and Anthony Sears at the location Milwaukee cops found five severed heads in Dahmer's kitchen, including the one in the fridge that Dubis was asked to look at He wrote a memoir 'A Father's Story,' in 1994, giving his side of his son's heinous crimes. The four-part documentary is set to air exclusive Dahmer family home movies and 'new insight into one of the world's most infamous string of crimes.' Dahmer was arrested in 1991 after Tracy Edwards escaped Dahmer's clutches and flagged down two police officers. Milwaukee cops found five severed heads in Dahmer's kitchen, including the one in the fridge that a senior police officer was asked to look at. They found seven skulls, a tray of blood drippings, two human hearts, part of an arm, a torso and a bag of human organs and flesh at the property. Horrifically they also discovered two skeletons, a pair of severed hands, two severed penises, a mummified scalp, as well as three more torsos dissolving in a 57-gallon drum of acid. When raiding Dahmer's apartment, cops also found 74 Polaroid pictures detailing the dismemberment of each victim. Knives and sawblades were scattered on the floor, as well as a hypodermic needle and an electric drill which he is believed to have used on his victims. Dahmer raped, murdered and cannibalized 17 young men across Wisconsin and Ohio between 1978 and 1991, and was convicted in 1992 of the crimes Lionel and his son Jeffrey Dahmer. Jeffrey Dahmer was convicted in 1992 and murdered in prison two years later at the age of 34 Dahmer, who was already a convicted sex offender, was sent to prison in 1991 after he confessed to killing 17 men and boys between the ages of 14 to 33 Dahmer was handed 15 consecutive life sentences in jail, but only served two before he was beaten to death by fellow inmate Charles Sarver at the age of 34. The convicted sex offender targeted victims between the ages of 14 to 33, and admitted violating the corpses after he killed them. Dahmer's twisted crimes and life were serialized in the hit Netflix documentary Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer story last year. By day Dahmer worked in a chocolate factory but by night he would go out to find many of his victims at gay bars. He would invite them to his Milwaukee home so they could drink alcohol and he could take pictures of them naked. Dahmer would then drug his victims, strangle or stab them, before dismembering them and eating parts of their bodies and saving others in his refrigerator or other parts of his house. He was caught out in July 1991 when his 18th intended victim, 52-year-old Tracy Edwards, managed to escape after Dahmer had put him in handcuffs and tried to attack him with a knife. After Edwards brought police to the apartment, Dahmer was arrested and admitted killing 17 young men, his youngest victim - Konerak Sinthasomphone - being 14 years old, and his eldest - Eddie Smith - being 36. Since committing to holding a referendum regarding a proposed Indigenous Voice to Parliament, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his cabinet have frequently referred back to the Calma-Langton Report. The report was handed to the then-Coalition government in July 2021, long before Labor swept to power and kicked off a campaign to have the proposed advisory body written into the Australian constitution. It calls for not one, but 36 Voice bodies. One being the national proposal Australians will vote on at the October 14 referendum, and a further 35 'local and regional bodies' to work together with all levels of government. At the helm of the 272-page report is Professor Marcia Langton. She is inextricably tied to the Voice and has assisted the government of the day at every step to see the 'generous request' made in the Uluru Statement from the Heart come to fruition. She has called for a 'strong, resilient and flexible system which ... will be part of a genuine shared decision-making with governments at the local and regional level'. At the helm of the 272-page report is Professor Marcia Langton (left). She is inextricably tied to the Voice and has assisted the government of the day at every step to see the 'generous request' made in the Uluru Statement from the Heart come to fruition The Voice should be designed to work alongside, complementing and amplifying existing structures, rather than as a means to replace them, she and her co-author, Tom Calma, found. It is important to note the government has not formally adopted the report, but in several media interviews over the span of the campaign, Mr Albanese has urged the public to read it when he's been asked for further details about the Voice. Assistant Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy and Agriculture Minister Murray Watt have both also referred to further details about the proposal being available in the Calma-Langton report. The government has committed to some of the key design principles laid out in the report. The bulk of the details are yet to be seen, and will be determined by parliament after - and if - Australia votes Yes on October 14. Mr Albanese and his government say this is not unusual, and is simply a matter of confirming community support before engaging in the nitty-gritty side of the proposal. Here, Daily Mail Australia reports the key suggestions laid out by Professor Langton and how she envisions up to 35 local and regional Voices working alongside the National Voice. Professor Langton (pictured at Garma with the PM ) and her co-author wrote these regional Voices should be able to provide direct advice to the national Voice, creating a 'two-way flow of advice and communication' on 'systemic issues associated with national policies and programs, and matters of national importance' Local and Regional Voices The government is yet to formally announce its position on local and regional Voices. It is not part of the referendum question and therefore, would not be written into the constitution. However, Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney said in February she would seek to establish a network of regional Voices with state and territory governments. READ MORE: Why Voice details must come AFTER referendum Advertisement 'Those things are very important,' she told The West Australian. 'We will obviously work with those States and Territories in the best way to pursue a network of voices across this country.' The Calma-Langton report provides a thorough blueprint for such a task. It says community consultation indicated '35 regions across Australia would be necessary to accommodate the complexities of implementing the Indigenous Voice proposals'. Additionally, each region should be able to 'decide how best to draw its Voice members', whether it be via election, nomination, expressions of interest or another form of selection. The report suggested these methods would 'drawing on structures based in traditional law and custom, or a combination'. The group would also have the freedom to determine 'how many Voice members there will be'. Professor Langton and her co-author wrote these regional Voices should be able to provide direct advice to the national Voice, creating a 'two-way flow of advice and communication' on 'systemic issues associated with national policies and programs, and matters of national importance'. Additionally, they sought for the local and regional Voices to be able to advise non-government sectors within communities, such as businesses and corporate entities. The Calma-Langton report provides a thorough blueprint for such a task. It says community consultation indicated '35 regions across Australia would be necessary to accommodate the complexities of implementing the Indigenous Voice proposals' Yes campaigners are on the ground around Australia trying to explain the Voice proposal to everyday Australians National Voice The Calma-Langton report is the most detailed proposal Australians have regarding what a constitutionally enshrined Voice could look like at a national level. The report was commissioned by the Coalition government, when there was no such undertaking to have the Voice written into our constitution. However, the Prime Minister has referred back to the Calma-Langton report in radio and television interviews, as well as in conferences, since as early as 2022. The report proposes three tiers of consultation standards - the first being an 'obligation' for parliament to consult with the Voice on 'proposed laws that overwhelmingly relate to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, or which are 'special measures'. READ MORE: What is the Makarrata Commission? Advertisement The second tier is the 'expectation to consult' on proposed laws and policies that 'significantly impact' them. And the third tier is an 'ability to consult the National Voice on any relevant matter'. To allow for complete transparency, any bills would include an explanation about the consultation that took place, and the national Voice would be able to 'table formal advice'. 'All elements would be non-justiciable, meaning that there could not be a court challenge and no law could be invalidated based on whether there was alignment with the consultation standards or transparency mechanisms,' the report reads. The 'non-justiciable' reference has been repeatedly made by supporters of the Voice to Parliament in the face of repeated questions and criticisms from the Opposition about whether the advisory body could become a legal minefield. The report called for the national Voice to be comprised of 24 members, two from each state and territory (one male, one female), and an additional five people representing remote regions. One person would be selected to represent Torres Strait Islander peoples on mainland Australia. The report called for the national Voice to be comprised of 24 members, two from each state and territory (one male, one female), and an additional five people representing remote regions. One person would be selected to represent Torres Strait Islander peoples on mainland Australia Additionally, there should be an option to 'appoint up to two additional members if a particular skill set is required'. The report said membership would be 'structurally linked to the local and regional Voices', and that members of those Voices would 'collectively determine the national Voice members'. 'This membership model draws on the strength, legitimacy and authority of Local & Regional Voices, particularly as developed under the principles of Inclusive Participation and Cultural Leadership,' the report states. Additionally, members of the national Voice would have four year staggered terms and be limited to a maximum of two consecutive terms. Two full time co-chairs would be selected, of different genders, and members would be subject to eligibility requirements such as 'age, Indigenous identity, criminal conviction and bankruptcy'. 'A member could be removed from their position for misconduct, subject to a review process and a two-thirds super-majority vote of the membership,' the report stated. In addition to the group itself, it would have two 'permanent committees at it's disposal' if the report's advice is followed - a Youth committee and a Disability committee. The Voice would also have the power to create other expert committees when it sees fit under Professor Langton's proposal. Read the full Calma-Langton report here Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has urged Australians and the media to read the report What has the government confirmed about the Voice? What kind of advice can the Voice provide the Parliament and Government? The Voice will advise on matters that directly relate to Indigenous people. It will respond to requests made by the government, while also having the power to engage proactively on matters that they believe impact them. The group will have its own resources to research matters and engage with communities at a grassroots level to ensure it is best reflecting their needs. How will members of the Voice be chosen? Members of the Voice will be appointed by Indigenous communities and will serve on the committee for a fixed period of time, yet to be determined. The way the communities choose their representatives will be agreed upon by the local communities in tandem with the government as part of a 'post referendum process' to ensure cultural legitimacy. Who can become a member of the committee? Members of the Voice must be Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. They will be chosen from across each state and territory and have balanced gender representation nationally. The government has also guaranteed that young people will be included in the committee to ensure representation across the broad scope of the community. Will the Voice be transparent? The government states the Voice will be subject to scrutiny and reporting requirements to ensure it is held accountable and remains transparent. Voice members will be held to standards of the National Anti-Corruption Commission and will be sanctioned or removed from the committee if there are any findings of misconduct. Will the Voice have veto power? No. Will the Voice work independently of other government bodies? The committee must respect the work and role of existing organisations, the government says. Will the Voice handle any funds? The Voice will not directly manage any money or deliver any services to the community. Its sole role will be in making representations about improving existing government programs and services, and advising on new ideas coming through the parties. A chief executive has accused shoplifters of turning his city into a 'supermarket sweep' - as businesses say wardens are forced to do police work and recover stolen goods. One store owner in Newcastle revealed he had to pay 50 to buy his own car keys back from a thief who pocketed them during a raid. Stephen Patterson, chief executive of business improvement district NE1, has described how criminals knock as many items off shelves and into baskets as they can before fleeing. His company sends a team of wardens into the city centre to recover stolen goods for despairing shopkeepers. Mr Patterson claimed his rangers manage to recover thieved items reported to them 80 per cent of the time. [ADD VIDEO: 3018117] Shop owner Vikas Jain shared CCTV footage of a customer (left) trying to hide himself from staff while swiping a phone from the shelves The thief appears to be on the phone while he subtly takes a phone from the shelf Mr Jain, who runs Mac Repair (pictured) in Newcastle city centre, said his store has become a victim of the shoplifting crisis as thieves continue to plague his business 'The typical behaviour of a thief walking into a shop and covertly slipping something into a bag and leaving the store undetected is on the decline,' he said. 'It's far more common now for someone to just brazenly walk in and pick up a shopping basket, clear a shelf and then walk straight out, barging anyone out of the way when they leave. 'It's far more brazen and the shoplifters are more aggressive when they are challenged. 'They steal all sorts. They will walk in, they will clear all of the steaks off the shelf. It is like supermarket sweep.' He added: 'It is the items they know they will easily sell on in a pub, such as steaks and cheeses. 'In smaller shops it tends to be higher individual value, handbags etc. 'If you can pick it up from a shelf it tends to get stolen, but it is things people can easily move on.' Mr Patterson believes that the authorities are not doing enough to address the problem. 'Ultimately for cities to tackle these issues you need police and judiciary to be in lockstep,' he said. The man can be seen putting the phone in his pocket after checking no one was looking The thief then walks out the shop. Speaking about the problem, shop owner Mr Jain said: 'Unfortunately we see customers pinching phones from us quite often now' Chief executive Stephen Patterson has accused shoplifters of turning his city into a 'supermarket sweep'. Pictured: High street in Newcastle city centre 'Central Government issued guidance to say that thefts under 200 should be dealt with as a fine. 'That is in essence decriminalising shoplifting because it's just a fine. And if you are stealing 200 and are paying a 75 fine, there's a decent profit margin. 'You need the police on the streets, treating these crimes seriously.' It comes as fed-up shop owner Vikas Jain, who runs Mac Repair in Newcastle city centre, said his store has become a victim of the shoplifting crisis as thieves continue to plague his business. Mr Jain, 43, said the shop has been left hundreds of pounds out of pocket because of intruders. READ MORE: High street shops are turned into fortresses with everyday goods under lock and key amid shoplifting epidemic Advertisement He even found himself having to fork out 50 to buy his own car keys back from a shoplifter who pocketed them during a recent visit. CCTV footage passed on by Mr Jain shows one customer trying to hide himself from staff while swiping a phone from the shelves. Speaking about the problem he said: 'Unfortunately we see customers pinching phones from us quite often now. 'The concern for us is if I have one colleague on the shop floor on his own during a quiet time, he can't do anything to stop three or four shoplifters who come in. 'Most of our stock is on the shelves for customers to have a look at on their own. Some shoplifters will take them and run away but some are sneakier and work as a team. 'For example a customer might ask a colleague for help and while he is distracted with the counter door open, someone else will come and pinch a phone. He added: 'They are taking phones which are hundreds of pounds in value. I've had iPhones and Samsung's stolen.' Mr Jain has since installed high-tech CCTV system in the shop but the businessman still finds himself frequently calling the police. He added: 'I've also had people ask me for help but they'll wait until I'm around the till before they pick up a phone and run off. A team of around six NE1 rangers, armed with body-cams and stab proof vests, patrol the streets of the city centre 'I always call the police but they just tell us to send the footage and we don't see much action taken. 'If the criminals know nobody is going to catch them, they will keep doing it and there is no deterrent. 'They will get the upper hand on us and we'll keep seeing the same problems.' Speaking about the car key theft, Mr Jain said: 'My key was on the counter and a guy came in and grabbed it and walked out. 'My car was distance away so the key was absolutely no use to him. I caught him on the recording and it turned out he was homeless. 'There's a big network of homeless people around Newcastle and I showed his photo to lots of people on the street and they told me who it was. 'I got his number and I politely asked for it back. 'I said I would give him 50 and when we met up he told me had been watching me for ages to make sure I wasn't setting him up. 'He finally felt confident to give me my key back. He actually had about five in his pocket and he had to ask me which one was mine. 'I'm worried for the future because I don't want people to think we're an easy target but there's not much else we can do.' Last May NE1 launched an initiative whereby business owners are encouraged to report on-street issues including antisocial behaviour and shoplifting to the organisation directly. A team of around six NE1 rangers, armed with body-cams and stab proof vests, patrol the streets of the city centre and chief executive Mr Patterson claims they are able to recover around 80 per cent of stolen items. 'The rangers follow and challenge, and contact the police. The job carries a certain amount of risk but they don't get into altercations,' said Mr Patterson. 'When shoplifters leave the shop there's a feeling they have got away with it. The rangers challenge on the street. 'The shoplifters think, if I just give up the goods I have a better chance of getting away, so they usually do. They know the police probably won't respond if they give the items back. 'I hope the situation will get better in time, but everyone needs to work together to tackle the problem.' Ivanka Trump made a secret trip to Maui a few weeks ago to distribute meals and critical supplies to residents still recovering from the devastating wildfires. The former first daughter joined CityServe International on a humanitarian mission where they distributed 250,000 prepackaged meals for displaced families impacted by the biggest wildfire in U.S. history. They visited a Lahaina church that is acting as a food pantry and met with residents who are working to rebuild their lives. Dressed in a blank tank top and green cargo pants, Trump wore a name tag that read 'Iva' as she distributed fresh produce locally grown in Maui. Ivanka Trump made a secret trip to Maui a few weeks ago to distribute food and supplies to those displaced in the wildfires During her visit Ivanka Trump passed out fresh vegetables, delivered prepacked supplies and posed for photos. 'Her humble presence lifted spirits and reminded the people of Lahaina that they are not forgotten,' CityServe said in a statement. 'Amidst the tears being shed are tangible signs of hope and love, and with the arrival of meals and supplies, our partners and team alongside Ivanka, were hefting boxes of supplies, consoling survivors, and passing out meals to those whove lost everything.' There are approximately 6,000 displaced residents staying in Maui hotels, while another 1,100 are in Airbnb rentals. Ivanka Trump and the group distributed food, water, local produce, gift cards and other needed supplies to displaced families and individuals staying at hotels, local distribution centers and pantries near Lahaina, CityServe said. The group is also providing gas cards and air filters to residents, who are being advised not to drink the water and to stay away from fire-damaged areas. Trump also used her connections to get other companies to donate goods to those in Maui, according to CityServe. Next week, a 747 filled with $1 million worth of supplies will head toward Maui with ebikes, electric scooters, electronics, toys, dry foods, small appliances, ukuleles, and several pallets of Jockey clothing - 'all because of a Ivanka's connection,' the group said. The wildfires are under control across the island but damage remains in the 2,170 acres burned. The death toll stands at 97 and 66 people remain missing. Ivanka Trump meets with displaced individuals, on her trip to Maui with CityServe she helped distribute 250,00 pre-packaged meals Ivanka Trump also visited a Lahaina church that is acting as a food pantry The burn area of Maui remains restricted to authorized personnel as officials clean up the potentially dangerous ash and other debris. There is an estimated 2,200 damaged or destroyed structures. The cleanup could take months. The early cost estimate is $5.5 billion. Originally visitors had been asked to stay away so officials and residents could concentrate on cleanup efforts on the west coast. Tourism is a major driver of the economy in Hawaii, and the wildfire on Maui saw state officials to lower their 2023 economic growth prediction to 1.1%, down from 1.8%. But to help bring in needed dollars, much of West Maui will reopen to tourists on Oct. 8 under a new wildfire emergency proclamation signed last week by Hawaii Gov. Josh Green. Visitors will be asked to stay away from Lahaina and the damaged east coast. On that side of Maui, residents in Lahaina, Kula and the surrounding areas are being advised to only use bottled water or potable water provided by tankers. Ivanka Trump wore a name tag that read 'Iva' as she distributed food Ivanka Trump carries supplies for distribution The former first daughter also posed for photos with residents Charred remains of homes are visible following the wildfire in Lahaina Students won't be able to return to class until mid-October. Roughly 3,000 students from the four Lahaina public schools have been displaced in the fires. Ivanka Trump has partnered with CityServe for almost four years. She worked with them during the COVID pandemic to provide food to those in need. She also has helped the group send 1 million meals to Ukrainians and visited Poland with them to aid the refugees. The former first daughter has left politics - while she is supporting Donald Trump's bid for a second term in the White House she is not campaigning for him - and has focused on charity work and raising her three children with husband Jared Kushner. The Kushner/Trump clan moved to Florida after the left Washington D.C. where Jared and Ivanka worked as advisers in President Trump's administration. When Russell Brand first burst onto the scene he was known for being a serial womaniser and his battles with addiction. The Sun named him 'Shagger of the Year' three times in a row from 2006 to 2008 and he allegedly slept with more than 1,000 women. The comedian openly boasted about his promiscuous past, once claiming to have bedded nine women in one evening. Following a stint in rehab, the sex and drug addict began to try to change the tide on his reputation. In more recent years he has regenerated into a successful online influencer and wellness guru and has more than six million subscribers to his YouTube channel. After years of drugs, partying, sex and rehab, Brand settled down and married his wife Laura Gallacher in 2017 before the pair welcomed two young daughters - Mabel and Penny - and are now expecting a third child. The Sun named Russell Brand 'Shagger of the Year' three times in a row from 2006 to 2008 and the comedian openly boasted about being promiscuous during the early stages of his career Brand is photographed in July 2010 wearing his underpants during filming scenes for the re-make of 1981 movie Arthur Known for his interest in spirituality, just last month Brand advertised his next big wellness event - Community 2024 - aimed at helping personal awakening and social change. In an interview with The Guardian in 2017, Brand himself said how he is 'less mad now'. 'I was a needy person,' he said. 'I mean, that condition abides, but I manage it better now, I think.' In 2014, he posted a picture of himself holding up a t-shirt emblazoned with black bold capital letters 'No More Page 3' as he threw his weight behind the campaign. He thanked his then girlfriend Jemima Khan for 'the wake up call' and declared 'teenage sexist me is slain'. Not all commentators were convinced by his newfound image, with Dr Brooke Magnanti - a research scientist and former prostitute - pointing the spotlight on his tweet declaring 'love of a good woman' had made him change his ways. She wrote in The Telegraph: 'What on earth does that mean? That all the other women - of which, by his own admission, there have been a good many, including ex-wife Katy Perry - were insufficiently good enough to convince Brand that sexism wasn't on?' Today, ex Rhian Sugden broke her silence about the 48-year-old supporting the campaign after Saturday's bombshell Dispatches documentary. Glamour model Rhian, 37, who insisted nothing untoward happened when they were together, did however claim Russell joined the No More Page 3 campaign in 2014 after failing to 's**g his way through' its list of models. Ex Rhian Sugden claimed Brand joined the No More Page 3 campaign in 2014 after failing to 's**g his way through' its list of models When the #MeToo movement exploded in 2017, ex-Lothario Brand described it as a 'real awakening'. In an interview with The Sunday Times magazine in January 2019, he said he had no regrets about his past. He praised the #MeToo movement, adding: 'No [I don't regret my past]. I just feel it [the movement] is a really positive change. It's a sign of real awakening.' And talking about his own shift in attitude towards sex and marriage, he added: 'When I think "oh that person is attractive", the next thought is "yes but if you ever did anything, you realise it would destroy your whole life". There's that voice in my head now.' In 2012 he was on Newsnight to discuss how drug addicts are treated and got into a heated debate with Mail on Sunday columnist Peter Hitchens, where the latter accused Brand of being 'aggressive to me in the past'. Hitchens questioned: 'Why is a comedian being given a programme on the BBC to push a policy about drugs? Why is the debate on drugs so debased that this is the kind of thing we are reduced to?' A year later, The New Statesman announced Brand was guest-editing a special issue on the theme of Revolution. Brand appeared on Newsnight in 2012 where he clashed with Mail on Sunday columnist Peter Hitchens in a heated debate on how drug addicts are treated He appeared as a panellist on Question Time in 2014 and again made the headlines for a heated row with Nigel Farage. He also had to apologise for being 'sexist' to Penny Mordaunt The edition focussed on climate change, gay rights, transcendental meditation and dealing with drug abuse and included contributions from the likes of Gary Lineker, Noel Gallagher, and Alec Baldwin. In 2014, the comic was on the Question Time panel alongside then UKIP leader Nigel Farage where he clashed with Brand over immigration and whether Britain is 'overcrowded'. READ MORE: Channel 4 and BBC launch probe into Russell Brand rape and sex assault scandal as celebrity friends start distancing themselves in the wake of allegations Advertisement The comic labelled Farage a 'pound shop Enoch Powell', while a member of audience called for him to stand for election to Parliament. Brand was forced to apologise for 'sexism' after telling fellow panellist Penny Mordaunt, who was praising firefighters: 'Pay their pensions then love.' While only as recently as June, he appeared on Dragons' Den star Steven Bartlett's Diary of a CEO in a one hour and 40 minute interview titled: 'Russell Brand FINALLY Opens Up: Escaping A Lifetime Of Anxiety, Addiction & Finding Love!' In his opening gambit, the entrepreneur said: 'Russell Brand is one of the most fascinating individuals I have ever spoken to. A former self-harming, heroin addict, self-confessed narcissist, bulimic that craved fame and attention. 'And was so addicted to sex he slept with five women a day. That married Katy Perry three months after meeting her, and then divorced her with a text message. 'Have you ever felt that that subtle feeling that the way you're living isn't quite right? That something somewhere is out of balance? 'That you are not living your life as that human somewhere inside you should be living their life. The Russell Brand that sits before me can relate. And he's found a new cure for that feeling.' The interview has been viewed more than 2.5 million times and has had more than 7,000 comments. Neighbours have recounted the horrific scenes they were confronted with when a young woman was savagely mauled by her two pet Rottweilers. Nikita Piil, 31, was savagely attacked by her pet dogs, Bronx and Harlem, at her Perth home on Pitta Corner in Success, at about 4.35pm on Saturday afternoon. Her painful screams echoed through the street, alerting those nearby to the nightmare that was unfolding. Despite neighbours attempting to stop the brutal attack, the dogs continued to maul the woman until police intervened. Nikita Piil, 31, was savagely attacked by her pet dogs, Bronx and Harlem, at her Perth home on Pitta Corner in Success, at about 4.35pm on Saturday afternoon Neighbour Bryn Spencer said he and another neighbour attempted to stop the attack but couldn't access her property without endangering themselves. He said Ms Piil's screams could be heard for about 10 minutes before her neighbours intervened. 'I was contemplating jumping the fence and getting in there to rescue her but obviously there were two Rottweilers in there ... I would have been ripped apart,' he told the ABC. 'All I could really do was watch this girl get mauled apart while I was smacking the fence with a bat ... while (another neighbour) was hosing the dog.' Speaking to 7News, Mr Spencer said he pleaded with police to shoot the dog. 'I said you need to get your gun out and shoot this dog, it's going to kill her,' he said. While he wasn't able to stop the attack, he conceded that he did 'everything I possibly could'. 'The other Rottweiler was jumping up the fence at me,' he said. 'I kept screaming at it and smacking the fence.' Officers attempted to taser the dogs, before they were forced to shoot, leaving one of the animals in a significant condition. Ms Piil appeared to be an avid rottweiler lover, with photos of her pet dogs plastered on her Facebook page A plaque on Ms Piil's front door read: 'Beware of the rottweiler' The dogs were later seized by the City of Cockburn, with the injured dog euthanised due to his injuries. Ms Piil appeared to be an avid Rottweiler lover, with photos of her pet dogs plastered on her Facebook page. One photo from 2019 showed Ms Piil cuddling a Rottweiler, however it can't be confirmed whether it was the same dog involved in the attack. While Rottweilers aren't considered restricted breeds in Australia, they can be prone to aggression. Male dogs can also weigh up to 50-60kg. Footage from 9News, also revealed a plaque on Ms Piil's front door which read: 'Beware of the Rottweiler'. Ms Piil remains at the Royal Perth Hospital in a serious condition and has suffered serious injuries to her arms and leg. According to the West Australian, she requires surgery to save one of her arms. The incident will continue to be investigated by the City of Cockburn. NHS leaders have warned that strikes by junior doctors and consultants this week will cause unprecedented disruption for patients amid a historic joint walkout. Planned care is likely to come to a halt with thousands of appointments cancelled, as the row with the Government over pay and conditions continues. Consultants in England will walk out for 48 hours from tomorrow, and will be joined by their junior colleagues on Wednesday. Junior doctors will then continue their strike on Thursday and Friday. Both consultants and junior doctors will then strike together on October 2, 3 and 4. Those dates coincide with the Conservative Party conference, with doctors having been accused of a 'politically motivated' strike by scheduling the industrial action at the same time as the Tories gather in Manchester. Planned care is likely to come to a halt with thousands of appointments cancelled, as the row with the Government over pay and conditions continues (pictured: a picket line with striking doctors in August) Junior doctors have already staged 19 days of strike action since March this year and consultants have staged four days. Staff are expected to work on a 'Christmas Day cover' basis for both spells of industrial action, meaning emergency care will continue to be provided. Ahead of the strikes, NHS national medical director Professor Sir Stephen Powis warned the health service had 'never seen this kind of industrial action in its history'. He added: 'This week's first ever joint action means almost all planned care will come to a stop and hundreds of thousands of appointments will be postponed, which is incredibly difficult for patients and their families, and poses an enormous challenge for colleagues across the NHS.' He said people should continue to call 999 and use A&E as normal in emergency situations. READ MORE: More NHS strike misery on the way: Both junior doctors and consultants will hold four days of united industrial action from September Advertisement Prime Minister Rishi Sunak began his premiership pledging to cut NHS waiting lists, but ministers' failure to resolve the dispute with junior medics and consultants has cast doubt on whether that promise can be achieved. Industrial action in the NHS has been ongoing since December last year, with the number of appointments and operations cancelled having now passed 900,000. Figures released earlier this month showed the NHS waiting list in England reached a new record high, with 7.7million people around one in seven of the population waiting for treatment. Doctors' union the British Medical Association has admitted using these patients as 'leverage' in its bid to secure a deal. Downing Street warned that a strike by NHS doctors in England will pose a 'huge challenge' and disrupt patient care. The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: 'These co-ordinated strikes will pose a huge challenge for the NHS and for patients, who will see their care significantly disrupted.' Health Secretary Steve Barclay was open to discussions about the 'non-pay elements' of the British Medical Association's concerns but there were no plans to 'revisit' the pay deal, the spokesman said. Consultants in England will walk out for 48 hours from tomorrow, and will be joined by their junior colleagues on Wednesday. Junior doctors will then continue their strike on Thursday and Friday Saffron Cordery, deputy chief executive of NHS Providers, warned that strikes cannot become a 'new normal'. She hit out at the lack of 'meaningful dialogue' between the Government and medics, and warned it is 'likely to cause disruption to patient care unlike anything we've seen before'. Ms Cordery added: 'We need this dispute to be resolved, and fast, but there is a deep and growing frustration among trust leaders at the sheer lack of action to even start to break this deadlock. 'We cannot allow strikes to become business as usual for the NHS. 'With no end in sight, trust leaders are once again urging the Government and trade unions to sit down and talk so that everyone's focus can get back to the real priority providing safe, high-quality and timely care for patients.' A spokesman for the Department of Health and Social Care said yesterday: 'We accepted the independent pay review body's recommendations in full, meaning doctors who started their hospital training this year are receiving a 10.3 per cent pay increase, with the average junior doctor getting 8.8 per cent.' The spokesman added: 'Consultants are receiving a 6 per cent pay rise and are already in the top two per cent of earners in the country. 'This pay award is final and the Health and Social Care Secretary is clear his door is open to discuss non-pay issues if the BMA call an end to this damaging disruption.' A key architect of the Voice to Parliament slammed the ABC for platforming leaders of the No campaign. Professor Megan Davis shared her outrage on Twitter that David Speers interviewed no campaigner Warren Mundine on the ABC's Insiders program, in a tweet that has since been deleted. 'It's astonishing to me that the ABC Insiders show has WARREN MUNDINE on this morning,' she posted, according to The Australian. 'Jacinta (Price) at NPC, Kerrynne Liddle on 7.30 report. 'The shemozzle of 4 Corners. Professor Megan Davis (pictured) shared her outrage on Twitter that political operator Warren Mundine was interviewed on the ABC's Insiders program by David Speers 'ABC just continually platforms the NO campaign. #Insiders'. Liberal Senator Liddle appeared on Thursday's 7.30 in a segment led by Speers. On Thursday, the ABC also aired opposition Indigenous spokeswoman Jacinta Nampijinpa Price's address to the National Press Club in Canberra. Prof Davis left up other tweets criticising Insiders and its host David Speers. 'The Voice will focus on what's urgent for mob. It will likely make representations on running water (which Jacinta thinks Aboriginal communities have) and not Australia Day (which Mundine is saying should be changed). "No" is clearly not in touch with communities. #insiders,' she wrote. Warren Mundine (pictured) himself clearly had an issue with his interview with Speers, after he took to Twitter to say the Insiders host had 'selectively quoted' an article he had written almost a decade ago She also re-tweeted calls for the ABC's news director to be investigated. 'ABC's blatant obvious campaign against YES is worrying,' a tweet by Ash Leahy read. 'There is an obvious editorial directive here MD and the news director need to be questioned.' Mr Mundine himself clearly had an issue with his interview with Speers, after he took to Twitter to say the Insiders host had 'selectively quoted' an article he had written almost a decade ago. 'Read it for yourself,' he wrote. 'I don't believe that history traps Aboriginals in disadvantage. I believe Aboriginal people can move forward and economic participation is the key.' Shocking footage has captured the moment Jacinda Ardern was heckled on the streets after flying to Canada to attend a climate conference. The former prime minister of New Zealand, who resigned in January, was on her way to attend the Global Progress Action Summit in Montreal on Sunday. Lincoln Jay, who is a videographer for far-right media outlet Rebel News, then filmed the moment he stopped her in the street to question her emissions footprint. How much fossil fuels did you burn coming here to talk about climate change?' he said. Ms Ardern brushes off the question with a smile before she continues to walk away when a security guard jumps in to defend her. WATCH: I caught the far-left former Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern on her way to the "Global Action Summit" here in Montreal. She has no answer when confronted on her hypocritical behavior, carbon tax the plebs, jet set for the elites. https://t.co/kCPoXwVDxN pic.twitter.com/JwhmxYrb2f Lincoln Jay (@lincolnmjay) September 16, 2023 Shocking footage has captured the moment Jacinda Ardern (pictured, with Justin Trudeau) was heckled on the streets after flying to Canada to attend a climate conference Jacinda Ardern has been heckled in Canada by a mischievous reporter accusing her of hypocrisy for flying 14,380 kilometres to talk about climate change. Pictured: Ms Ardern at the APEC Leaders meeting in Bangkok in 2022 'Leave her alone,' the security guard said. 'Im on a sidewalk ... You cant touch me, you cant put your hands on me,' Mr Jay said. 'Leave the former prime minister alone,' the security guard said. Ms Ardern was part of a panel discussion at the 2023 Global Progress Action Summit in Montreal, a meeting of 14 current and former world leaders including Justin Trudeau, Tony Blair and former Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin. Mr Jay later posted the clip to his X account, adding: 'She has no answer when confronted on her hypocritical behavior, carbon tax the plebs, jet set for the elites.' READ MORE: Jacinda Ardern's emotional final speech Jacinda Ardern shocked New Zealand earlier this year when she announced she was stepping down as Prime Minister and retiring from politics, saying she no longer had 'enough in the tank'. Ardern wore a korowai - a traditional Maori feather cloak for her exit speech Advertisement Before the summit, Mr Trudeau posted a video of his reunion with Ms Ardern before the summit. 'You've got my flag [here] and everything,' she tells him before they hug. The leaders gathered at the summit on Saturday for 'unique high-level discussions on priorities such as economic growth for all, investing in good jobs as we tackle climate change'. They also covered 'renewing trust in how democracy delivers results for people amid rapid geopolitical shifts throughout the world'. It is not known whether Ms Ardern flew from New Zealand to Canada to attend the summit - or if she was in another country at the time. A flight from Auckland, where she lives, could have produced 5.5 tonnes of carbon dioxide during the 22 hour flight. That estimate is based on a widely used calculation that says assumes greenhouse gas emissions of a quarter of a tonne CO2 equivalent, per passenger per hour flying. The Auckland to Montreal route is often flown by the new model Boeing Dreamliner, which emits between 30 per cent and 50 per cent less carbon dioxide than some older planes. A 2022 study found that aviation contributes around four per cent of human-induced global warming, which is four times Australia's total annual emissions. If the entire aviation industry was a country, it would be the worlds sixth largest emitter, after China, the US, India, Russia, and Japan. Mostly emissions come from commercial flights. In January Ms Ardern quit as New Zealand Prime Minister and retired from politics at just 43, saying she no longer had 'enough in the tank'. Ms Ardern was a guest of honour at the 2023 Global Progress Action Summit in Montreal, a meeting of 14 current and former world leaders including Justin Trudeau (pictured right) , Tony Blair and rock star former Finnish PM Sanna Marin (second from right). Before the summit, Trudeau posted a video of his reunion with Ardern before the summit She was NZ's Prime Minister for five years and three months. In April, Ms Ardern was announced by Prince William as a trustee of the Earthshot Prize, an environmental award. She was also appointed as Special Envoy for the Christchurch Call, an organisation set up to combat online extremism. She has one child, giving birth to Neve Te Aroha Ardern Gayford in 2018 while she was Prime Minister. Torrential downpours have kept Brits awake overnight as the country's roads turn into rivers and threaten the morning rush-hour commute. Sleepless Londoners have taken to social media to share 'insane' videos of thunder followed by flashes of lightning as a storm raged over the capital. It comes as yellow weather warnings bring Britain's record-breaking heat-wave to a crashing close as more than a month's rain fell in 24 hours on Sunday, turning roads into rivers after the deluge. And now the Met Office are warning of a 'danger to life' from fast-flowing floodwater shortly after temperatures hit a stunning 28C (82F) in London on Saturday. The forecaster says there is a chance homes and businesses could be flooded quickly while buildings could be damaged from floodwater, lightening strikes, hail and strong winds. Spray and sudden flooding could lead to road closures while there is a chance of train and bus cancellations due to flooding and lightening strikes. Yesterdays monsoon-like conditions saw more than four inches of rain fall in just a few hours across Devon and Somerset, causing flash flooding. The average September rainfall for Devon is 87 mm (3.4ins), and for Somerset is 71 mm (2.8ins). A man battles with his umbrella as he is caught in torrential rain during a thunderstorm in Greenwich, south east London A pedestrian submits to the pouring rain as he trudges home carrying his takeaway while others shelter in Greenwich, south east London Insane lightning over London with no rain pic.twitter.com/VErTkoHRsj The Ginger Prince (@dale946) September 17, 2023 Members of the public brave the wind and rain on Wimbledon Common south-west London The forecaster says there is a chance homes and businesses could be flooded quickly while buildings could be damaged from floodwater, lightening strikes, hail and strong winds. Pictured: The three day forecast The Met Office are warning of a 'danger to life' from fast-flowing floodwater shortly after temperatures hit a stunning 28C (82F) in London on Saturday Exeter Airport was forced to close with all flights cancelled when its main terminal was inundated, while motorists were trapped in their cars in nearby Dawlish. Other areas of Devon suffered power cuts amid lightning strikes, while landslips closed roads including the M5 for a short time. Warnings were last night in place for potential flooding of homes in Dawlish, Sampford Mill and Kingsbridge. Britain is being hit by the remnants of Hurricane Lee, which pounded north-eastern US and Canada with 70mph winds and killed at least one person at the weekend. Forecasters have warned of gale-force winds of 45mph or more, particularly for western coasts, from tomorrow until Thursday. And up to three inches of rain could fall in the wettest places, most likely to be over the hills and moors of Snowdonia, Cumbria and the Pennines. The average rainfall for the whole of September is 4.4 inches. The Met Offices Jonathan Vautrey said: Some places could have potentially 70 per cent of the average September rain over the course of a few days as the weather system marches through. The 28C we saw in London on Saturday is the last breath of summer. Generally, from here on temperatures are likely to be closer to the average for the time of year. Thunderbolts and lightening, very very frightening in Brighton. @MetWatchUK pic.twitter.com/izI8RkiNsV Harry Corton (@harrycorton) September 17, 2023 In the early hours of yesterday, lightning struck a house in Totnes, which caused an upstairs ceiling to collapse Crews arriving at the scene at 2am found the occupant had recieved only minor injuries But the huge surge of electricity had blown plug sockets off the wall and shattered a lamp Pictured is a road in Dawlish, Devon, that was flooded following torrential rain 'The thunder is occurring along a cold front which is then due to open the door to Atlantic weather brought along by the jet stream. However, forecasters say the storm clouds could have a silver lining with hopes there will be another Indian summer at the start of October. The Met Office said: There is an increased chance of more settled conditions developing. 'Overall, temperatures are more likely to be above average than below, with an increased chance of some warm spells, but also some cooler nights. After monsoon-like conditions over just a few hours in south-west England yesterday, roads resembled rivers, part of Dawlish town centre was underwater and Exeter Airport had to be closed after areas of the terminal building were inundated by flooding. Warnings were last night in place for potential flooding of homes in Dawlish, Sampford Mill and Kingsbridge, all in Devon. Yesterday afternoon, residents in Paignton battled to stop the rising water entering their homes and power cuts affected several hundred homes across south Devon. In the early hours of yesterday, lightning struck a house in Totnes, which caused an upstairs ceiling to collapse. People get caught in a heavy rain downpour in Charlestown, St Austell, Cornwall However, forecasters say the storm clouds could have a silver lining with hopes there will be another Indian summer at the start of October The Ironman contest's swimming section was cancelled in Weymouth due to the weather Pictured is an area in Dawlish, Devon, hit by severe flooding Crews arriving at the scene at 2am found the occupant had recieved only minor injuries - but the huge surge of electricity had blown plug sockets off the wall and shattered a lamp. In all, flooding and landslips affected 11 roads across Devon including the M5 which had to be temporarily closed for a short time. There was also flash flooding affecting roads in Somerset, including Taunton town centre. By late afternoon, officially the wettest place was Harberton Farm, near Totnes, which recorded 84mm (3.3ins). But the Met Office said some private rain gauges had recorded over 100mm (4ins) of rain and totals for yesterday were expected to end up at 70-90mm (2..8 - 3.6ins) in areas of Devon and Somerset. The Met Office added there have been approximately 1500-2000 lightning strikes across the UK today, most of which have been in southern counties of England, and some of these where over the English Channel. Jonathan Vautrey, a meteorologist with the Meteorological Office, said: Some places could have potentially 70 per cent of the average September rain over the course of a few days as the weather system marches through. Mr Vautrey said the worst of the weather is likely to be in the west, with spells of wet and windy conditions. He said: The 28C we saw in London on Saturday is the last breath of summer.. Generally, from here on temperatures are likely to be closer to the average for the time of year. Exeter Airport was forced to close after torrential rain flooded the terminal A person walked in the lashing rain on Wimbledon Common in south-west London The Pen-Inn underpass in Newton Abbot, Devon flooded following heavy rain on September 17 The thunder is occurring along a cold front which is then due to open the door to Atlantic weather brought along by the jet stream. Arriving midweek on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday are the remnants of Hurricane Lee, which by then will have settled into a more typical Atlantic weather system. Under the cloud and rain it is likely to be feeling relatively cool. Temperatures in south east England could still reach 21C (70F) today MON and hover at 19-20C (66-68F) for the coming days but fall back to 16C (61F) by Friday. Further north and west, highs of 17-18C (63-66F) are possible for the first half of the week before falling back to 15-16C (59-61F). Mr Vautrey said gales are likely as ex-Hurricane Lee moves through - predominantly on the western coasts but potentially eastern coasts could see gales developing into the afternoon. He added that away from high ground in the north and west, rainfall as ex-Hurricane Lee blows through is likely to be lower, at around 10-20mm (0.4-0.8ins). On Friday, into next weekend and the following week, sunshine and showers are due to predominate, with the possibility of heavy and localised thundery downpours and longer spells of rain in western and northern areas. It is also due to be windy at times, with the potential for a spell of very strong winds at times. A woman takes a photo of flooding at the Penn-Inn underpass in Newton Abbot, Devon An Ironman competition was cancelled in Weymouth due to the threat of electrical storms The Met Office issued amber and yellow weather warnings of thunderstorms across the south of England and Wales But forecasters remain hopeful there could be a further Indian summer spell at the beginning of October. The Met Office said: There is an increased chance of more settled conditions developing, but this doesnt rule out spells of more changeable weather. Overall, temperatures are more likely to be above average than below, with an increased chance of some warm spells, but also some cooler nights. Videos showed passengers standing in the flooded terminal in Devon yesterday with water up to their ankles as it was announced that all flights to and from Exeter Airport would be cancelled for the rest of the day. Flash flooding also hit the nearby seaside town of Dawlish, trapping motorists in their cars on roads inundated with water. Residents were reportedly stranded as water gushed down a major road in the area. The weather forecaster said 30-40mm of rain fall over just one hour - in a downpour that would see volumes of rain equivalent to over half the September average of 55-60mm. This meant more than 100mm of rain may have fallen by the end of Sunday in an area where the September average is 92.45mm. The UK's official forecaster warned of lightning, hail, and strong winds that would lash many parts of England and Wales last night. An amber weather warning for thunderstorms across parts of Devon and Somerset is still in place while a yellow warning covers the rest of the south-west of England and South Wales until 6pm. A similar warning has been issued for London, the south-east and east of England and the East Midlands until 6am on Monday. Slow traffic in heavy rain on the M62 near Brighouse in West Yorkshire (Danny Lawson/PA) Chaotic scenes at Exeter Airport pic.twitter.com/7rT2jOeiqI Justin Sharp (@JustinS04138161) September 17, 2023 The miserable weather comes just a week after the UK saw its hottest September ever. Temperatures soared to a record-breaking 32.7C on Saturday last week in some parts of the country. It was the first time since 1911 that the UK's maximum temperature exceeded 30C (86F) for more than three days. Heavy rain brought torrential downpours across the south-west of England this morning, with localised flooding in south Devon. Areas affected by the amber warning are likely to be flooded and people should expect some disruption to travel. In some parts of southern England, the Met Office predicted that 30-40mm of rain could fall - volumes equivalent to at least half the September average of 55-60mm. Homes and businesses could be in danger of flooding quickly in the downpours, although the risk is said to be low, the Met Office said. There is also a 'slight chance' of power cuts or that other services to homes and businesses could be lost, while some communities could also be cut off by floodwater, the forecaster added. The Met Office said buildings could also be damaged by lightning, hail or strong winds. People planning to travel face the prospect of delays or sudden cancellations to trains and buses. Roads may be closed at short notice due to spray and sudden floods and 'difficult driving conditions' are expected on those that remain open. Met Office meteorologist Jonathan Vautrey said 'there is a chance these thunderstorms turn severe' and bring 'gusty winds with quite significant torrential rain'. People in London shielded themselves from the rain with umbrellas as they walked across the Jubilee Bridge Beachgoers enjoyed a dreary day at Durdle Door following the recent spate of warm weather They will move relatively quickly, making it difficult to pin down where exactly will be worst affected, Mr Vautrey said. He added: 'It is certainly worth keeping up to date with the forecast. 'Although the warning area covers the whole south east of England, not everywhere in that region may see the most severe thunderstorms. 'It is worth checking those things immediately before you head out on your journey so that you are aware where the most severe thunderstorms are possible. 'Make sure you are taking care as the weather could change at very short lead times, and just be prepared for those gusty winds and potentially large hailstorms.' Conditions are expected to remain 'blustery at times' early next week but are likely to be fresher. The beach at Durdle Door looked dreary amid an overcast sky and wet, rainy weather A lightning storm hits Blyth on the Northumberland coast (Owen Humphreys/PA) More storms are possible as the remnants of Hurricane Lee, which hit New England in the US and eastern Canada, is set to move across the UK between Tuesday and Thursday. It will no longer be a hurricane by the time it reaches UK shores. Mr Vautrey said: 'That will be getting picked up by the jet stream. Showers in places could be heavy with a risk of further thunderstorms. 'It could be quite an unsettled, autumnal week to come.' Tomorrow will see further wet and windy weather, with northern England seeing the heaviest rain. On Tuesday and Wednesday the weather will remain wet but some areas in the south will see drier spells. Cloud will be heavy for most. Wartime Pope Pius XII knew details about the Nazi attempt to exterminate Jews in the Holocaust as early as 1942, according to a letter found in the Vatican archives. The correspondence suggests Pius XII had detailed information from a trusted German Jesuit that up to 6,000 Jews and Poles were being gassed each day in German-occupied Poland. The details in the letter conflict with the Holy See's official position at the time that the information it had about the mass murder of Jews was vague and unverified. The yellowed, typewritten letter, reproduced in Italy's Corriere della Sera on Sunday, is highly significant because it was discovered by an in-house Vatican archivist and made public with the encouragement of Holy See officials. The letter, dated December 14, 1942, was written by Father Lother Koenig, a Jesuit who was in the anti-Nazi resistance in Germany, and addressed to the pope's personal secretary at the Vatican, Father Robert Leiber, also a German. Vatican archivist Giovanni Coco told the Corriere that the importance of the letter was 'enormous, a unique case' because it showed the Vatican had information that labor camps were actually death factories. Pope Pius XII was sometimes derided as 'Hitler's Pope.' The Vatican says Pius worked quietly to save Jews and thereby not worsen the situation for many others at risk, including Catholics in parts of Nazi-occupied Europe A letter, dated December 14, 1942, was written by Father Lother Koenig, a Jesuit who was in the anti-Nazi resistance in Germany , and addressed to the pope's personal secretary at the Vatican, Father Robert Leiber, also a German. Leiber is seen, right The archives will give historians a chance to better understand Pius XII's reticence, which some view as unforgivable. The Pope is pictured in September 1945 Pope Pius XII pictured in 1949 blessing faithful at the Vatican. The entire Vatican archives on the pontificate of Pope Pius XII (1939-1958) opened in March 2020 Artifacts from wartime archives on Pope Pius XII on display at the Vatican. Jews have for many years been seeking transparency from the Vatican on its actions during the Holocaust Coco said the letter was significant because it represented detailed correspondence about the Nazi extermination of Jews, including in ovens, from an informed church source in Germany who was part of the Catholic anti-Hitler resistance that was able to get otherwise secret information to the Vatican. Coco said Koenig's letter actually was found in the Vatican's secretariat of state archives and was turned over to the Vatican's main Apostolic Archives in 2019. The secretariat of state's papers were disorganized and scattered, with some of Pius' documents kept in plastic containers in an attic storage space where heat and humidity were damaging them. It could mark the first time a reference to Jews being gassed in ovens had been revealed in a letter that would certainly have been brought to Pius' attention. In the letter, Koenig tells Leiber that sources confirmed about 6,000 Poles and Jews a day were being killed in 'SS-furnaces' at the Belzec camp near Rava-Ruska, which was then part of German-occupied Poland and is now in western Ukraine. 'The newness and importance of this document derives from a fact: now we have the certainty that the Catholic Church in Germany sent Pius XII exact and detailed news about the crimes that were being perpetrated against the Jews,' Coco told the newspaper, whose article was headlined: 'Pius XII Knew'. Asked by the Corriere interviewer if the letter showed that Pius knew, Coco said: 'Yes, and not only from then.' The letter made reference to two other Nazi camps - Auschwitz and Dachau - and suggested there were other missives between Koenig and Leiber that either have gone missing or have not yet been found. Adolf Hitler is seen with his bodyguards in 1931 at a meeting of the Nazi party in Bad Harzburg The Pope never spoke out about the slaughter of 6million Jews in Nazi concentration camps across Europe. Pictured, women are seen at the train station ramp of Auschwitz concentration camp - around 1944 Women in the barracks at Auschwitz, Poland seen in January 1945. The photo was taken by a Russian photographer shortly after the liberation of the camp Jews are seen being led away before being deported in the Warsaw Ghetto, during the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising in 1943 According to the Belzec camp memorial which opened in 2004, a total of 500,000 Jews perished at the site. The memorials website reports as many as 3,500 Jews from Rava Ruska had already been sent to Belzec earlier in 1942 and that from December 7-11, the city's Jewish ghetto was liquidated. 'About 3,000-5,000 people were shot on the spot and 2,000- 5,000 people were taken to Belzec,' the website says. The date of Koenig's letter is significant because it suggests the correspondence from a trusted fellow Jesuit arrived in Pius' office in the days after the ghetto was emptied, and after Pius had received multiple diplomatic notes and visits from a variety of envoys of foreign governments from August 1942 onwards with reports that up to 1million Jews had been killed so far in Poland. While it can't be certain that Pius saw the letter, Leiber was Pius' top aide and had served the pope when he was the Vatican's ambassador to Germany during the 1920s, suggesting a close working relationship especially concerning matters related to Germany. The unsealed archives cover a post-World War II era in which writers were censored and some priests hounded for suspected communist sympathies The Vatican first published the essentials covering the Holocaust four decades ago, an 11-volume work compiled by four Jesuits priests The minutes of Pius XII's speech to RAI employees with autograph corrections from December 1944 Supporters of Pius say he worked behind the scenes to help Jews and did not speak out in order to prevent worsening the situation for Catholics in Nazi-occupied Europe. His detractors say he lacked the courage to speak out on information he had despite pleas from Allied powers fighting Germany. The letter was among documents Coco said were kept in haphazard ways in the Vatican's Secretariat of State and only recently handed over to the central archives where he works. The historic moment was preceded by decades of controversy and debate about why the pontiff, who headed the Catholic Church from 1939 until his death in 1958, never spoke out about the slaughter of 6million Jews in Nazi concentration camps across Europe. Kept confined to the Vatican by the Nazis and then Italian Fascists, Pius XII was a German-speaking Italian aristocrat who witnessed Hitler's rise while posted as the Holy See's ambassador in Germany for 12 years. A list of those shot during the Fosse Ardeatine massacre seen in the archive of Pope Pius XII Documents on the pontificate of Pope Pius XII are seen at the Vatican Secret Archives Pope Pius XII is seen working at his typewriter as he replies to peoples personal letters in 1955 The archives give historians a chance to better understand Pius XII's reticence, which some view as unforgivable. Others note the Church still saved around 4,000 Jews from certain death by hiding them in its Roman institutions - and he had to stay neutral to better shield Catholics from the unfolding devastation. The Vatican usually waits 70 years after the end of a pontificate to open archives but it had been under pressure to make the Pius XII documentation available sooner, while Holocaust survivors are still alive. 'The Church is not afraid of history,' Pope Francis declared when he chose to open one of the Vatican's most painful moments up for world scrutiny in 2019. The Vatican first published the essentials covering the Holocaust four decades ago, an 11-volume work compiled by four Jesuit priests. But some crucial pieces are still missing, such as the pope's replies to notes and letters - including those about the Nazi horrors. The unsealed archives additionally cover a post-World War II era in which writers were censored and some priests hounded for suspected communist sympathies. The Vatican has long defended Pius, sometimes derided as 'Hitler's Pope' because of his reluctance to condemn Nazi war crimes, saying he used behind-the-scenes diplomacy to try to save lives. The 50-miles web of dusty shelves includes a section dedicated to Pius XII, protected behind locked metal gates This unusual photo shows Pope Pius XII standing before his gestatorial chair as he is carried into one of the Vatican's apostolic halls to bless crowds gathered there Pius XII 'never raised his voice and I doubt that these documents will contradict this,' said Italian historian Anna Foa, characterizing his style as 'very diplomatic and traditional.' 'During the war, he thought his duty was to save lives but not to condemn ideologies,' said Foa. 'Pius XII was a product of his time. He was not particularly anti-Jewish, but he refused to disavow the anti-Jewish history of the Church.' Suzanne Brown-Fleming, director of International Academic Programs at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington DC, said the release showed that the Vatican was taking seriously Pope Francis' statement that 'the Church is not afraid of history' when he ordered the wartime archives opened in 2019. 'There is both a desire for and support for a careful assessment of the documents from a scientific perspective - whether favorable or unfavorable in what the documents reveal,' she said. Researchers have long sought to examine the archives over why Pius XII did not intervene more against the Holocaust perpetrated by the German Nazis, an attitude denounced as a form of passive complicity. A 1999 work by British journalist John Cromwell accused Pius of doing too little to speak up for Hitler's victims during the war, and a failure to explain himself afterwards. His work, Hitler's Pope, claimed that Pius was anti-Semitic, citing this alleged prejudice as a reason for staying quiet. The allegations were strenuously denied by the Vatican. Pius' supporters have long insisted that he couldn't speak out strongly against the Nazis because of fears of reprisals. David Kertzer, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of 'The Pope at War', a 2022 book about the Pius years, said Coco was a 'top notch, serious scholar', centrally placed in the Vatican to unearth the truth. Brown-Fleming, Coco and Kertzer will be part of a major conference on Pius and the Holocaust next month at the Pontifical Gregorian sponsored by Catholic and Jewish organizations, the U.S. State Department and Israeli and American Holocaust research groups, among others. A father has been killed and his two children and partner rushed to hospital with serious injuries after two cars collided. The family of four were travelling in a Ford on Nerowie Road in Parwan, west of Melbourne, when the vehicle collided with a Jeep at 10am on Sunday. The father, 51, from Clifton Springs died at the scene, despite frantic efforts from witnesses and emergency responders to revive him. His partner, 45, was freed from the wreckage after becoming trapped in the front seat. She was rushed to Royal Melbourne Hospital with life-threatening injuries. The woman is now in a serious but stable condition. A boy, 12 in the back seat was airlifted to The Royal Children's Hospital suffering from upper body injuries. He remains in a critical but stable condition. This crash on Melbourne's outskirts left one man dead and his partner fighting for life A girl 7, who was also in the back seat was taken to hospital with head injuries. Harrowing footage from the scene shows the smashed Ford on its side with the road strewn with debris from the wreckage. READ MORE: Teens arrested after allegedly stealing Mercedes Advertisement Police allege the Jeep driver had been travelling on the wrong side of the road when it ploughed into the familys Ford. The driver of the Jeep, a 65-year-old Mont Albert North man who sustained non-life-threatening injuries was arrested at the scene. He has since been charged with one count of dangerous driving causing death and four counts of dangerous driving causing serious injury. He was granted bail to appear in Melbourne Magistrates Court on September 25. A passenger in the Jeep, a 61-year-old Kew woman was also injured. She was taken to hospital in a stable condition. 'The circumstances surrounding the collision are yet to be established and the investigation is ongoing,' a police statement read. Anyone with dashcam footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers. The fatal crash takes Victoria's 2023 road death toll to 215, 42 more than this time last year. Police are urging all motorists to take care on the road during Victoria's school holidays, which are now underway. The family were travelling in a Ford which ended up on its side after a Jeep collided with the vehicle Police forces must reopen station front counters to prevent crime and win back public confidence, a policing leader has said. Donna Jones, the new chairman of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC), has revealed plans to reopen ten police stations and install 'local bobbies' in her Hampshire constabulary in the next 18 months as part of a 2million project to boost officer visibility. More than half of Britain's police stations have closed in the past ten years at a rate of more than one a week, with figures from 2021 indicating fewer than 600 remained open to the public. Ms Jones said it was vital this trend was reversed. She said: 'Opening up the front counters sends a clear message there is a police presence in this community and we are open for business. 'Driving up the visibility of police gives a feeling of safety to the community and also has the effect of driving down levels of crime.' Donna Jones (pictured), the new chairman of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC), has revealed plans to reopen ten police stations and install 'local bobbies' in her Hampshire constabulary Ms Jones said her specialist 'local bobbies' will be handpicked from those with ties to the area and will be encouraged to share their details with communities. She explained that 'each one will be contactable directly and they will not be moving on after a few years', adding they will 'be the local officer everyone knows'. Ms Jones said she has been able to implement these plans without having to borrow any extra funding. She said: 'We have had increased police budgets for the last three years, so this is all achievable with simply being financially prudent and prioritising frontline, visible policing.' Hampshire Police has received an extra 16.6million in government funding for the period 2023/24 part of a 17.2billion grant package for police forces nationwide. Government grants account for around two-thirds of police funding, with the rest coming from a share of council tax, with elected PCCs able to determine how much additional funding local taxpayers should contribute. More than half of Britain's police stations have closed in the past ten years at a rate of more than one a week (file photo) Devon and Cornwall PCC Alison Hernandez is also planning to open six more enquiry desks in her constituency by April next year, with another four by spring 2026 as part of a 1.5million investment. Ms Hernandez said the reopening the front counters would help make people more confident to approach the police to discuss issues and report crimes. A Home Office spokesman said: 'We are giving the police the resources they need to tackle crime, and through our police recruitment campaign we have more police officers in England and Wales than ever before.' After Russell Brand was hit with accusations of rape and sexual assault, more women have come forward with allegations about how he has treated them, it has emerged. The Times and Sunday Times claim 'several women' have come forward with undisclosed allegations about Brand's behaviour during the early 2000s in wake of their joint investigation with Channel 4 which was published on Saturday. The latest allegations - which the newspaper says have not been investigated, but will now be 'rigorously checked' - follow accusations from four women, including one who claims she was sexually assaulted by Brand during a three-month relationship with him when she was 16 and still at school. The BBC is now also facing 'urgent questions' after it was claimed that Brand, 48, used his company-provided car service to pick the girl up from school. It comes as both BBC and Channel 4 have launched internal investigations into separate accusations of predatory behaviour by Brand towards staff and audience members during the time of his employment. Channel 4 has since removed all programmes linked to Brand from its website, including episodes of The Great British Bake Off and Big Brother's Big Mouth in which he was featured, The Daily Telegraph reported. Netflix has since been urged to remove his comedy special, titled Re:Birth, from its streaming catalogue. The maverick actor and stand-up comic has strenuously denied any wrongdoing and blamed the mainstream media for the litany of astonishing rather baroque attacks. Russell Brand is alleged to have asked staff on the Big Brother shows he was hosting to ask female audience members for their numbers. Pictured: Russell Brand hosting Big Brother's Little Brother in May 2006 Former staffers on the show claimed they felt Brand had got them to 'act like pimps' with his requests. Pictured: Brand on Celebrity Great British Bake Off Russell Brand pictured with his wife Laura Gallacher Alice (pictured) alleges that Russell Brand sexually assaulted her when she was 16 years old. She claims he would send a car to pick her up secondary school lessons, which she has since claimed was a 'BBC car' The comedian released a video last week refuting all the allegations against him. Pictured: Brand leaving the Troubabour Wembley Park theatre after a gig on Saturday night BBC chiefs launched an investigation into Brand last night after the comedian was accused of rape. Their probe was announced minutes before Scotland Yard piled on the pressure by announcing that detectives would like to speak to the comedians alleged victims. Brand, a former star of the BBC and Channel 4, faces bombshell claims from women alleging sexual assaults, abuse and predatory behaviour including one who was a 16-year-old schoolgirl. EXECUTIVES WITH QUESTIONS TO ANSWER THE RADIO BOSS Radio 2 controller Lesley Douglas gave Russell Brand his own BBC show, firstly at the digital station 6 Music then in a short space of time at Radio 2 itself. She was regarded as the presenters biggest champion at the corporation. But it was because of Brand and Jonathan Ross that she was forced to resign in 2008 after the pair left a series of lewd phone messages to Fawlty Towers star Andrew Sachs claiming Brand had had sex with his granddaughter. Among the latest allegations against Brand are that Ms Douglas had received complaints about his behaviour, but that nothing resulted. After leaving the BBC, Ms Douglas joined Universal Music. She is now thought to be running her own production company. The Mail was unable to contact her, but a statement on Dispatches read: Ms Douglas did not at any time encourage, enable, and/or fail herself to take any adequate steps within her power with regard to the conduct of Mr Brand of which she was aware. THE AGENT BRANDS agent John Noel is the man who turned him into a huge star. Representing him at his company John Noel Management from 2002 to 2017, he appeared to be willing to go the extra mile to dig his client out of any crises, support which helped Brand land a plum role presenting E4s Big Brother spin-off show Big Brothers Big Mouth in 2004. Noels son Nik Linnen was even best man at Brands wedding to Katy Perry. The Mail has contacted Noel. A company spokesman said they were unable to respond to the allegations for legal reasons. THE TV EXECUTIVE Sir Peter Bazalgette the man who brought Big Brother to our screens was a senior executive at the shows production company Endemol at the time some of Brands alleged actions were said to have taken place. While Sir Peter is not thought to have had any direct role in producing the shows, there have been questions about how much Endemol managers knew about Brand. Endemol said that it has no record about these issues being formally raised. Sir Peter has been contacted for comment. Advertisement But the claims from one businesswoman who alleged Brand raped her when she refused a threesome and another who said she was 16 when he choked her during a sexual act, prompted a firestorm yesterday. Among the complaints raised in the investigation were allegations by a woman, referred to as Alice to protect her identity, who claims she was sexually assaulted by Brand as a 16-year-old. She alleges he took her virginity, was 'preoccupied' with her being 'innocent and pure', and often referred to her as 'The Child'. Alice described his behaviour towards her as 'grooming' as Brand would allegedly provide her with scripts on how to deceive her parents into allowing her to visit him. She also claimed he would send his 'BBC car' to her secondary school to pick her up. 'The first time I used it, he told me it was booked to take him to his radio show but he had a friend taking him instead so I should use that car,' she told The Times. She claimed the chauffeur once took her from Brand's home to her grandmother's house and that on a separate occasion the same car 'picked me up from school'. Alice added: 'It was the same car...I knew that that was a BBC car.' The BBC did not initially commit to an inquiry but amid the growing outcry, it shifted its position last night and a spokesman said it was urgently looking into the issues. In a statement, a BBC spokesman said: 'The documentary and associated reports contained serious allegations, spanning a number of years. 'Russell Brand worked on BBC radio programmes between 2006 and 2008 and we are urgently looking into the issues raised.' The broadcaster yesterday launched an internal investigation into what was known about Brand's alleged behaviour following claims that at least one senior executive was aware of complaints against the comedian and seemingly dismissed them. Banijay UK, which produced Big Brother's EForum and Big Brother's Big Mouth in the early 2000s, revealed it had also 'launched an urgent investigation' into the 'very serious' allegations from former staff who worked alongside Brand when he hosted the programmes between 2004 and 2006. The ex-staffers have claimed that Brand got them to 'act like pimps' by getting the numbers of women in the audience and passing notes to them from the presenter. Channel 4 has also said it is conducting its own internal investigation following allegations of predatory behaviour against Brand. They said: 'We have asked the production company who produced the programmes for Channel 4 to investigate these allegations and report their findings properly and satisfactorily to us. 'Channel 4 is also conducting its own internal investigation, and we would encourage anyone who is aware of such behaviour to contact us directly.' The statement added: 'We will be writing to all our current suppliers reminding them of their responsibilities under our Code of Conduct, as we are committed to ensuring our industry has safe, inclusive and professional working environments.' The network also confirmed to the Telegraph that it has 'taken down all content featuring Russell Brand while we look into the matter'. MailOnline has approached the BBC, Channel 4 and Netflix for comment. Screen grab taken from Channel 4 Dispatches trailer of Nadia - or an actress playing Nadia - speaking about her harrowing experience The Metropolitan Police have begun enquiries into allegations of sexual assault published in The Sunday Times and on Channel 4's Dispatches. The show saw multiple women accusing him of abusive and predatory behaviour, including rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse, between 2006 and 2013. Officers have spoken to The Sunday Times following the report and have now encouraged any potential victims to come forwards. At this time, the force has 'not received any reports in relation' to the allegations of sexual assault detailed in the article or documentary. Met Police intends to further speak with the newspaper and broadcaster in a bid to 'ensure that any victims of crime who they have spoken with are aware of how they may report any criminal allegations to police'. READ MORE: Police urge victims to come forward as Russell Brand is accused of rape Advertisement The force said in a statement: 'We are aware of media reporting of a series of allegations of sexual assault. At this time, we have not received any reports in relation to this. 'We spoke with the Sunday Times on Saturday, September 16. We will be making further approaches to the Sunday Times and Channel 4 to ensure that any victims of crime who they have spoken with are aware of how they may report any criminal allegations to police.' The Times today reported that more women have come forward to detail allegations of Brand's alleged treatment of them. Those claims have yet to be investigated. But one alleged victim whose story was featured in the documentary says she is relieved that other women's allegations are being heard. The woman, referred to as Nadia in the investigation, told The Times last night: 'I'm super-proud of all the women who have come forward. I know how hard it is - thinking "I'm the only one" and "Who is going to believe me". 'It was all very hard to read and to watch but I think it's very necessary - because he needs to be stopped.' Nadia, who claims Brand raped her in his Los Angeles home in 2012, added that he 'cannot hurt me any more' and said she hopes that he will 'not hurt anybody else'. Brand was dropped by a charity working to end violence against women in light of the accusations. However, he has received support from some public figures, with the likes of Elon Musk, Andrew Tate and Laurence Fox all appearing to back the comedian as he claimed to be the victim of a 'co-ordinated media attack'. Billionaire tech mogul Musk, self-proclaimed misogynist Tate and actor-turned-political activist Fox threw their weight behind Brand, fellow comedians such as Jo Caulfield, Sofie Hagen and Daniel Sloss appeared to turn their backs on him. Russell Brand pictured on Saturday evening leaving the Troubabour Wembley Park theatre in north-west London after performing a comedy set Two of the women in Channel 4's Dispatches which aired on Saturday night said they felt production companies had 'enabled' Brand's behaviour. Production runner, Rachel, 24, worked alongside Brand on Big Brother's EForum, later Big Mouth. Weeks after she started the role, Brand is said to have focused his attention on her. Rachel said: 'It's difficult to say when the line was crossed.' She added that producers often asked her to deliver unfavourable news to Brand to 'soften the blow'. She said the pair went on to have sex, which he told her was a breach of his contract. Rachel said: 'He made clear to me I couldn't tell anyone else on the crew because he had it written into his contract that he wasn't allowed to have any sexual contact with anyone working on Big Brother. 'It sounds slightly dramatic but with hindsight and now as an older woman I can say with clarity that, you know, I felt like I was groomed, for sex. 'Production companies enabled him to exist in these environments where he was able to take advantage of who he was.' Three staff who worked on Big Brother told Dispatches about Brand. One said: 'My role was to recruit audience members for the live show. We used to go out flyering out by the universities, find university students who would come be on the show.' Another said: 'Russell is pointing out audience members and asking the runner to get phone numbers.' A third said they would be handed paper sometimes telling which hotel Brand was in. The production staff said they received tearful phone calls the next day from those that had been to see the comedian. One said: 'It was like we were taking lambs into slaughter. We were basically acting like pimps to Russell Brand's needs.' A researcher claimed concerns about his behaviour while working on the shows were reported to production managers at Endemol, which was bought by Banijay UK in 2020. A statement from Banijay UK, which bought Endemol in 2020, said: 'In light of the very serious allegations raised by Dispatches and The Times/Sunday Times investigation relating to the alleged serious misconduct of Russell Brand while presenting shows produced by Endemol in 2004 and 2005, Banijay UK has launched an urgent internal investigation and will co-operate with any requests for information from broadcast partners and external agencies. 'We also encourage anybody who feels that they were affected by Brand's behaviour while working on these productions to contact us in confidence.' Banijay UK, which produced Big Brother's EForum and Big Brother's Big Mouth in the early 2000s, said it had 'launched an urgent investigation' into his alleged behaviour. Pictured: Russell Brand standing with Davina McCall during filming for Big Brother in 2005 Comedian Russell Brand was accused of rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse of four women following a bombshell investigation. Pictured: Brand leaving Troubadour Wembley Park theatre in north London following a live performance of his show In a statement, Channel 4 said: 'Channel 4 is appalled to learn of these deeply troubling allegations, including behaviour alleged to have taken place on programmes made for Channel 4 between 2004 and 2007. 'We are determined to understand the full nature of what went on. We have carried out extensive document searches and have found no evidence to suggest the alleged incidents were brought to the attention of Channel 4. We will continue to review this in light of any further information we receive, including the accounts of those affected individuals. 'We will be asking the production company who produced the programmes for Channel 4 to investigate these allegations and report their findings properly and satisfactorily to us. 'In the many years since the alleged incidents took place, there has obviously been extensive change in Channel 4's management and commissioning teams. Today, Channel 4 has a zero-tolerance approach to unacceptable behaviour and has a robust Code of Conduct. We require all suppliers to have in place rigorous safeguarding policies and provide whistle-blowing support, including Channel 4's Speak Up facility. 'We are committed to ensuring our industry has safe, inclusive and professional working environments.' Andrew Tate took to X, posting a cartoon meme of a knight preparing for battle, captioned: 'On my way to fight the crazy b***h allegations' In a separate Tweet responding to Brand's video he called the allegations made against the comedian a 'Matrix attack' Responding to the Tweet, tech mogul Elon Musk told Brand: 'Of course. They don't like competition' Smooth Radio presenter Kirsty Gallacher shared Brand's video on her Instagram story with a large red love heart, however, a few hours later and after the investigation was published in full at 4pm BST, the post vanished from her Instagram stories, suggesting she had deleted it While TV bosses investigate the claims made by Brand's accusers, the comic has received support online from the likes of Andrew Tate, Elon Musk, Laurence Fox and his sister-in-law Kirsty Gallacher. Appearing to support Brand, Tate said 'Welcome to the club Russell Brand' accompanied by a cartoon meme of a knight preparing for battle, captioned: 'On my way to fight the crazy b***h allegations'. Tate, who is currently facing charges of rape and human trafficking - which he has denied - in a separate Tweet responded to Brand's video calling it a 'Matrix attack'. Meanwhile, Tesla and X owner Musk, also appeared to back the under fire star's comments on the media. He said: 'Of course. They don't like competition.' In a video questioning the allegations against Brand, Fox said: 'It's fascinating to see some parts of the legacy media talking about Russell Brand like we are going to believe anything they say about anything. 'Whatever Russell Brand got up to, and I can guarantee it because I was around, everything he would have done, would have been sort of acceptable. 'Because otherwise his producers would have called him out and fired him. 'Now that may be an uncomfortable thing to deal with for people but that's how the world was then.' His sister-in-law, model and TV star Kirsty Gallacher, initially appeared to be in support of Brand, who is married to her younger sister Laura. She shared his video to her Instagram story with a huge red love heart - but just a few hours after the full investigation was published the post, which remains up for 24 hours, had disappeared. However, famous names from the British comedy circuit appeared to distance themselves from Brand. Mock of the Week presenter Jo Caulfield took to X this morning, writing: 'In whatever industry you work in, keep speaking out. 'Predatory behaviour and abuse is wrong.... It's a tragic and age old story and it has to stop.' Meanwhile, British comedian Sofie Hagen also spoke out against alleged lurid behaviour within the industry. She wrote: 'In my current show, I briefly talk about a comedian who was once preying on a 16 year old girl AND IT WASN'T EVEN RUSSELL BRAND. It was ANOTHER ONE. 'The internet is flooded with statistics and examples of what happens to victims who report sexual assault or people that speak out against predators, so if it bugs you that we all keep talking about unnamed predators, then know, it probably bugs us too that they're unnamed.' And comic Dom Joly wrote: 'The amount of people defending Russell Brand, slagging off the women involved and believing that this is all because Brand is some 'threat to the Matrix' is pure Trumpism and deeply, deeply depressing...' Following Channel 4's Dispatches investigation into the alleged abuse, Trevi - a charity that supports vulnerable women and children - have cut all ties with Brand On Brand's charity Stay Free, he lists several organisations he donates too. Trevi said it had cut ties with Brand, however,, the Treasures Foundation said it was not making a decision at this time Earlier yesterday Trevi, a women's charity that Brand has worked with for more than a year, said they had 'ended their association' with him. The organisation that helps vulnerable women and children said it had been 'deeply saddened and upset' by the alleged victim's stories adding its priority remains protecting the 'safety and well-being of all women and girls'. A photo of Brand still remains on the charity's homepage, however, along with an article about how he is raising funds for Trevi at his new live show Bipolarisation in Plymouth on Tuesday. In a statement posted to its Instagram just hours after the shocking documentary was released Trevi said: 'We are deeply saddened and upset by the stories reported on this evening's Channel 4 Dispatches programme regarding Russell Brand. 'Russell became aware of our charity in 2022 after hearing about some of the incredible mothers we have helped to become drug-free over the years. He wanted to support our cause and raise money through his Stay Free Foundation. 'Today's media revelations have been difficult to process but our priority remains and continues to be the safety and well-being of all women and girls now and in the future. 'We have ended our association with Russell Brand and the Stay Free Foundation. 'As a charity whose values put women's voices at the heart of what we do, we always prioritise supporting women affected by violence and abuse and empower them to live without violence and fear.' It added that it understood how the allegations could be triggering for some women and urged those who need support to contact The Survivor Pathway. In the investigations, one woman alleged Brand raped her against the wall in his Los Angeles home when she was in her 30s. Another whom he referred to as 'the child' told how the presenter targeted her when was 16 years old and still at school, and he was aged 30. The Met Police said it had been made 'aware' of media reports about 'a series of allegations of sexual assault' and urged any alleged victims to come forward. But in an extra-ordinary preemptive fightback, Brand took to social media ahead of the 90-minute Dispatches documentary to the social media to 'absolutely deny' a string of 'very serious criminal allegations'. The comedian is also a supporter of several other organisations, including the Friendly House - an organisation in Los Angeles that provides women seeking recovery from alcohol and other substance use. One of the charities Brand supports is the Friendly House in Los Angeles, California. He remains on their homepage and is set to host a lunch in October Brand is also a supporter of the BAC O'Connor Centre, which helps provide rehabilitation for recovering addicts The comedian's charity Stay Free, which helps those with addiction, also donates money to the Treasure Foundation. The foundation which helps women suffering from drug abuse in East London, however, told MailOnline that it would not be cutting any ties with the comedian at present, adding that the women it supports were the priority. It said that many of the people supported by the foundation have 'been through sexual trauma' and some have even 'been perpetrators', adding that part of the program includes practicing forgiveness. A spokeswoman said: 'At Treasures Foundation we only know Russell Brand in the capacity of him wanting to make amends and give back to women, hence the desire of his to give to our charity. 'We are part of a program that practices forgiveness and making amends. Many of us have been through sexual trauma and some of us have been perpetrators. 'We need to take this time to process what is going on, we are talking to the women we support and will be issuing feedback from them, as as always the voice of the women we support is of the upmost importance. 'We cant make an opinion on what has come out right now. We just know him for the good that he does now.' The comedian, who has insisted that during his 'time of promiscuity the relationships I had were absolutely always consensual', also supports the BAC O'Connor Centre, in Staffordshire. The organisation helps rehabilitate those recovering from drug and alcohol addiction. A video of Brand, who is been open about his own struggles with addiction in the past, explaining why those suffering should choose the organisation. MailOnline has contacted Trevi, the Friendly House and BAC O'Connor. Just hours after the allegations first came to light, Brand took centre stage at Wembley Park Theatre in front of a crowd of 2,000 people. He told fans as he continued his tour: 'I really appreciate your support. I love you. 'I've got a lot to talk to you about. There are obviously some things I absolutely cannot talk about and I appreciate that you will understand.' The married father-of-two, whose wife Laura is expecting their third child, has also said that while he had been 'very, very promiscuous' in the past, the 'relationships I had were absolutely always consensual'. There was no sign of him yesterday at the family's 3million riverside home in Oxfordshire. It is not the first time Brand has been accused of inappropriate behaviour. Jordan Martin, a former girlfriend, claimed he had sexually assaulted her and 'made me brush my teeth so hard my gums bled so I would taste 'anonymous' to him'. A whopping 72 percent of Americans said President Joe Biden is not healthy enough to be president ahead of the 2024 election - with just 59 percent saying the same for Donald Trump in a new poll. It comes just days after the New York Times and Washington Post both published opinion pieces branding the 80-year-old president, the oldest in American history, as too old to run for re-election in 2024. In fact, only 12 percent of people surveyed said that they felt confident that both of the likely 2024 favorites were healthy enough to run. Perhaps most shockingly, only 7 percent of those polled said that they felt both Biden and Trump had the mental and cognitive health to serve as president, with 23 percent saying neither did. The polls aren't necessarily great for either candidate, has 64 percent say a Biden/Trump rematch means the political system is broken, with just eight percent saying both are the best candidates. A whopping 72 percent of Americans said President Joe Biden is not healthy enough to be president ahead of the 2024 election, with just 59 percent saying the same for Donald Trump in a new poll However, the news remains far more dismal for the 80-year-old Biden, despite being just three years older than Trump. Only 33 percent of respondents feel confident Biden will make it to the end of a hypothetical second term, whereas 55 percent say Trump will live to 2029, according to CBS News. When focusing on mental and physical fitness, voters are much more confident Trump is fit to serve as President for another term even if they don't agree with his politics. A mere 16 percent of respondents think Biden is physically healthy enough for another four years as the Chief Executive. But 43 percent say Trump is healthy enough. Last month, a separate CBS/YouGov poll revealed 77 percent of Americans think Biden is too old to be elected for a second term. Trump told former Fox News host Megyn Kelly last week that Biden isn't 'too old,' but is 'grossly incompetent.' He later told CBS host Norah O'Donnell in another interview that he would back cognitive testing requirements to run for President. The CBS/YouGov poll shows that Trump would beat Biden in a presidential election by just one point in a 50 percent to 49 percent outcome. It also reveals, however, that two-thirds of registered voters think a Trump rematch with Biden in 2024 would prove that the U.S. political system is 'broken.' It comes just days after the New York Times and Washington Post both published opinion pieces branding the 80-year-old president, the oldest in American history, as too old to run for re-election in 2024 Perhaps most shockingly, only 7 percent of those polled said that they felt both Biden and Trump had the mental and cognitive health to serve as president, with 23 percent saying neither did A new CBS/YouGOV poll shows that only one-third of registered voters think that if President Joe Biden was reelected he would be able to finish a second term in office Along with concerns over Biden's age, the President is also now facing an impeachment inquiry from the Republican-controlled House of Representatives. Trump, on the other hand, was indicted four times this year and will need to testify regarding his efforts to overturn Biden's victory in the 2020 presidential election. There are more than a dozen Republicans vying to take Trump's spot as the GOP nominee in 2024. This includes 38-year-old Vivek Ramaswamy. Biden is running virtually unopposed in the primary. Both Democrats Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Marianne Williamson launched extreme longshot bids to oust the incumbent for the nomination. Ross Douthat, a conservative op-ed writer for the liberal Times, penned a piece titled '2024's Field of Nightmares,' a reference to the 1989 film Field of Dreams. He said while his concerns with Biden come down to run-of-the-mill political disagreements during his first term, Democrats are playing with fire in allowing the oldest president in American history to run again. The two risks of Biden running again, according to Douthat: 'The high stakes of the next election, in which a health crisis or just more slippage might be the thing that puts Trump back in the White House, and the different but also substantial stakes of another four-year term.' The New York Times and Washington Post published op-eds Wednesday branding 80-year-old President Joe Biden as too old to run for re-election in 2024 While Douthat argued that similar to Ronald Reagan's second term - which was long-rumored to be served with the president in decline - Biden can 'limp to another victory,' he sees the current political era as telling. He compared it to liberals praying Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg could live long enough to see a Democrat replace her, only to see her die weeks before the election, with Trump able to nominate another justice to the Supreme Court. 'The Trump era has been one of those periods when providence or fate revenges itself more swiftly than usual on hubris - when the longstanding freedom that American parties and leaders have enjoyed, by virtue of our power and pre-eminence, to skate around our weak spots and mistakes has been substantially curtailed,' he said. David Ignatius wrote a similar column in the Jeff Bezos-owned Washington Post with a more direct headline: 'President Biden should not run again in 2024.' Ignatius largely praises Biden's first years in office, claiming the Democrat has 'governed from the center out' and done a good job with foreign policy in supporting Ukraine. However, he says not just Biden but Vice President Kamala Harris should avoid running in 2024. 'It's painful to say that, given my admiration for much of what they have accomplished. But if he and Harris campaign together in 2024, I think Biden risks undoing his greatest achievement - which was stopping Trump.' He cited disastrous poll numbers for Biden in terms of approval rating and the public's opinion of his age. The opinion pieces come as Biden faces an impeachment inquiry and recent polling numbers show most consider the president at too advanced an age to serve again A Washington Post columnist says not just Biden but Vice President Kamala Harris should avoid running in 2024. Columnist David Ignatius suggested US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo as a replacement for Harris For Harris, he cited 'simple fact is that she has failed to gain traction in the country or even within her own party.' He even suggested Biden replace Harris on the ticket with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass or Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. 'Right now, there's no clear alternative to Biden - no screamingly obvious replacement waiting in the wings. That might be the decider for Biden, that there's seemingly nobody else. But maybe he will trust in democracy to discover new leadership 'in the arena.'' Although Biden, 80, is only three years older than Donald Trump, 77, there is a 26 percent margin between those who think Biden is too old and those who think the ex-president is too old to serve another term. A landmark skyscraper in war-torn Sudan has been engulfed by huge flames with huge plumes of black smoke billowing from the 18-storey building. The fire at the Greater Nile Petroleum Company Tower in Khartoum erupted during clashes between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) as the war enters its sixth month. Online footage of the blaze on Sunday morning showed clouds of dark smoke rising from the burnt-out glass-panelled tower, one of the tallest buildings in the Sudanese capital. Paramilitary forces also attacked the army headquarters for the second day in a row, witnesses reported. It is unclear how the fire started or if anyone has died. The fire at the Greater Nile Petroleum Company Tower (pictured) in Khartoum erupted during clashes between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in a war that has been raging for more than five months It is unclear how the fire started or if anyone has died. Online footage of the blaze showed clouds of dark smoke rising from the burnt-out glass-panelled tower, one of the tallest buildings in the Sudanese capital Sudan has been rocked by violence since mid-April, when tensions between the country's military, led by General Abdel Fattah Burhan, and the RSF, commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, burst into open fighting 'Clashes are now happening around the army headquarters with various types of weapons,' witnesses from Khartoum said on Sunday, while others reported fighting in the city of El-Obeid, 350 kilometres (about 220 miles) south. Battles between the regular army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces intensified on Saturday, resulting in several key buildings in central Khartoum being set alight like the Greater Nile Petroleum Company Tower. Sudan has been rocked by violence since mid-April, when tensions between the country's military, led by General Abdel Fattah Burhan, and the RSF, commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, burst into open fighting. The conflict has reduced Khartoum to an urban war zone. In the Greater Khartoum area, RSF troops have commandeered civilian homes and turned them into operational bases, while the military has responded by bombing the residential areas, rights groups and activists say. In the western Darfur region, the conflict has morphed into ethnic violence, with the RSF and allied Arab militias attacking ethnic African groups, according to rights groups and the United Nations. The conflict has killed more than 4,000 people, according to August figures from the United Nations. However, the real toll is almost certainly much higher, doctors and activists say. Last month, Amnesty International said both warring parties have committed extensive war crimes, including deliberate killings of civilians and sexual assault. Since war erupted on April 15 between army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his former deputy, RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, nearly 7,500 people have been killed, according to a conservative estimate from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project. Battles between the regular army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces intensified on Saturday, resulting in several key buildings in central Khartoum being set alight like the Greater Nile Petroleum Company Tower The millions that remain in the city woke up Sunday to find clouds of smoke obscuring the skyline, as the sound of bombs and gunfire burst through the capital. 'We can hear huge bangs,' witnesses from the Mayo district of southern Khartoum said, where the army targeted RSF bases with artillery fire It has displaced more than five million people, including 2.8 million who have fled the relentless air strikes, artillery fire and street battles in Khartoum's densely-populated neighbourhoods. The millions that remain in the city woke up Sunday to find clouds of smoke obscuring the skyline, as the sound of bombs and gunfire burst through the capital. 'We can hear huge bangs,' witnesses from the Mayo district of southern Khartoum said, where the army targeted RSF bases with artillery fire. At least 51 people were killed last week in air strikes on a market in Mayo, according to the United Nations, in one of the deadliest single attacks of the war. The worst of the violence has been concentrated in Khartoum and the western region of Darfur, where ethnically-motivated attacks by the RSF and allied militias have triggered renewed investigations by the International Criminal Court into possible war crimes. There has also been fighting in the southern Kordofan region, where witnesses again reported on Sunday artillery fire exchanged between the army and the RSF in the city of El-Obeid. A jetskier has narrowly avoided wiping out a group of swimmers after coming dangerously close to shore during a recent heatwave. In footage captured at Thirroul Beach in Wollongong, the jetski is seen coming within metres of people splashing in the shallows. The jetski rides the waves towards the shore before performing a wide arc beside the swimmers, sending a large spray of seawater in their direction. At least two jetskis were seen making the most of the unseasonably warm weather with temperatures climbing to the 30s in the NSW Illawarra region. The drivers also took advantage of there being no beach patrol that day, with the official season not due to start until Saturday, September 23. In footage captured at Thirroul Beach in Wollongong, the jetski is seen coming within metres of people splashing in the shallows (pictured) Personal water-crafts like jetskis are required to remain 30metres away from other vessels, objects or the shore when travelling above 11km/hour. Jetskis must remain at least 60 metres away from people and dive flags. Irregular riding, such as driving in a circle, weaving or jumping, is not permitted within 200 metres of the shore within restricted zones. It comes after a boat-load of people in Victoria's Mornington Peninsula were soaked after a jetski sent a huge wave crashing onto the deck. The incident earlier this year seemed to be completely unprovoked and left those on the boat, including a 13-year-old girl, feeling frightened. Mornington Peninsula Council Mayor Steve Holland said more needed to be done to protect swimmers and wildlife from irresponsible jet ski riders. Mr Holland called for new exclusion zones for jet skis in 'sensitive areas' and said the changes would make beaches safer. The families of slain and injured victims of the Bourke Street terrorist attack are seeking damages as they struggle with the harrowing impact it's had on their lives. Almost five years have passed since Hassan Khalif Shire Ali went on a 19-second stabbing rampage in Melbourne's CBD, knifing much-loved Pellegrini's Expresso Bar co-owner Sisto Malaspina, 74, to death in November 2018. Retired firefighter Rod Patterson who was visiting from Tasmania was stabbed in the head but survived, as did security guard Shadi Helal. A coroner ruled two years ago that it was a premeditated act of terrorism and that opportunities to prevent the attack may have been missed by Victoria Police. Mr Patterson and Mr Malaspina's grieving family are among those seeking a multi-million-dollar settlement from the state of Victoria. They alleged the attack could have been prevented if it weren't for systematic police intelligence failures. Almost five years have passed since Hassan Khalif Shire Ali went on a 19-second stabbing rampage in Melbourne 's CBD, knifing much-loved Pellegrini's Expresso Bar co-owner Sisto Malaspina, 74 (pictured), to death in November 2018 A coroner ruled two years ago that it was a premeditated act of terrorism and that opportunities to prevent the attack may have been missed by Victoria Police Haunting memories came flooding back earlier this month when the families heard about the latest alleged rampage on Bourke Street that led to the tragic death of 76-year-old John Haasz and injured five others. The terrifying incident unfolded just 50 metres from where Mr Patterson was stabbed and left bleeding on the street almost five years earlier. READ MORE: Coroner rules that Bourke Street stabbing rampage was a premeditated ISIS terrorist attack Advertisement He still takes things day by day. 'There are so many things that trigger it,' Mr Patterson told the Today show on Monday. 'As late as last Friday, we are sitting down to watch the AFL finals and breaking news comes on the TV that 50m away from where I was stabbed, someone mowed down three people.' 'There is a lot of things that triggered this trauma.' Mr Patterson suffered a 10cm gash to his face, from his ear to his eye and received more than 120 internal and external stitches Mr Malaspina's son David, his mother Vwaja and his aunt Giuseppina Cecchini, along with Mr Patterson and his wife, Maree, and a relative of Mr Helal are seeking undisclosed damages for injuries, loss of earnings and earning capacity, and damages stemming from the attack, according to documents filed with the Supreme Court of Victoria. It's an escalation of a previous County Court civil claim filed in 2021. 'I attended every day of the coronial inquest, which was very, very stressful,' Mr Patterson said. Rod Patterson (pictured recovering with wife Maree a week after the 2018 Bourke Street attack) is among the victims and their families seeking damages The wife, son and sister of beloved cafe owner Sisto Malaspina (pictured) are also seeking damages against the state of Victoria 'It was quite apparent from the first day to the last day the Victorian police and other agencies, they just protected their backsides. They wouldn't put their hand up and say, ' we made a mistake.' 'A coronial inquest is all about learnings. You can't learn from your mistakes unless you own them.' The writ alleges that counter-terrorism units failed to share information, including Shire Alis address. It also alleges authorities did not adequately respond to Shire Alis increasing acts of violence by failing to arrest him on outstanding warrants in the weeks leading up to the Bourke Street attack. Shire Ali was shot dead by police following the stabbing frenzy. 'On October 3, this man should have been put in jail but instead got roadside bail,' Mr Patterson told the Today show. 'They couldn't find his address. They had helicopters in the air trying to find him when all they had to do is spend 50 cents and ring ASIO, which did have his address.' 'On November 2, they planned to arrest him on November 10, eight days after the plan. This happened on November 9, the day before he was supposed to be arrested. 'So, there is plenty of learnings from this but as I said before, you won't learn unless you own your mistakes.' David Malaspina still suffers almost five years after his dad was stabbed to death. He's pictured speaking at his dad's state funeral in November 2018 Bourke Street stabbing victim Rod Patterson (pictured speaking to the Today show on Monday) believes the attack could have been avoided if it weren't for systematic police intelligence failures Mr Malaspina's son David took over Pellegrini's Expresso Bar following his father's tragic death, who was given a state funeral. He still struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder and had to leave the restaurant while working on the night of the latest alleged attack on Bourke Street. He now hopes to get closure. 'I've got to relive this again. People can't understand, but it's like I relive it every day,' David told The Age. 'I want it to be done; I want to be able to move on with my life. We want our day in court, and we want [police] to be exposed for what's happened. We want people to be made accountable, and we want to fix the broken system.' 'A teacher, a father, my children's grandfather ... You can't replace what I've lost. You've got no idea what I'm going through. I'm going to need help later to struggle with my PTSD because no one that I know has gone through this.' Hassan Khalif Shire Ali stabbed three people before he was shot dead by police. Pictured is one of the victims being treated by paramedics Victoria Police confirmed it's aware of the civil proceedings. 'What happened that day was an absolute tragedy and has had a long-lasting impact on all Victorians, none more so than Sisto's loved ones,' a spokeswoman said. 'Given the initiation of civil legal proceedings, Victoria Police will not be providing further comment.' Coroner John Cain ruled in 2021 that while the actions of one man that day were intended to intimidate and harm, the acts of many others who stepped in demonstrated the opposite result. He praised Mr Patterson and other bystanders, including two off-duty police officers who acted with real courage, and in scant regard for the consequences for themselves. Joe Biden's arrival in New York City caused traffic chaos Sunday night as he took his family for dinner at a swanky Italian restaurant frequented by celebs including Alec Baldwin. The president's Air Force One touched down at JFK ahead of the UN General Assembly conference next week, where climate change, poverty and Russia's invasion of Ukraine will be top of the agenda. But his first stop was Il Cantinori, where he enjoyed a meal with several relatives. They were believed to have been toasting his granddaughter Finnegan's 23rd birthday. First Lady Jill Biden and their daughter Ashley Biden were spotted at the family outing - although Finnegan's father Hunter Biden, who faces three federal charges over his purchase of gun - was not pictured with them. Biden's downtown trip snarled traffic as police blocked roads in busy parts of Manhattan to clear the way for his motorcade to travel from the heliport to the fancy hotspot - where he received a standing ovation from patrons. The president was pictured leaving the restaurant with his daughter Ashley Biden, 42, who led him by the hand as they were flanked by bodyguards around 8pm on Sunday First Lady Jill Biden followed behind them and she waved and smiled at members of the public who whipped out their phones to capture the moment Biden's motorcade was spotted along 3rd Avenue as it made its way from the southern tip of Manhattan. Motorists blared their horns in frustration as they were stopped on nearby streets and several roads were shut down, causing stoppages throughout the island including inside tunnels and along the FDR highway. Il Cantinori sits along the busy East 10th Street between Broadway and University Place, near the NYU campus. The Tuscan restaurant offers fancy dishes from broiled rack of lamb marinated with fresh herbs for $69 and grilled filet mignon in garlic cream sauce for $64, to cheaper options like the grilled seasonal vegetables for $25. Biden was spotted leaving the restaurant with daughter Ashley, 42, tenderly leading him by the hand as they were flanked by bodyguards around 8pm on Sunday. First Lady Jill Biden followed behind them wearing a baby blue suit, and she waved and smiled at members of the public who whipped out their phones to capture the moment. The president's scandal-plagued 53-year-old son was nowhere to be seen as he prepares to go to trial accused of lying about his drug addiction on forms to purchase a .38-caliber Colt Cobra revolver in 2018. Hunter was indicted on the gun charges earlier this month, and he could face additional tax charges soon. The Tuscan restaurant offers fancy dishes from broiled rack of lamb marinated with fresh herbs for $69 and grilled filet mignon in garlic cream sauce for $64, to cheaper options like the grilled seasonal vegetables for $25 Biden arrived in New York City ahead of the UN Assembly amid a growing cacophony of criticism over his handling of the Big Apple's migrant crisis The president traveled via Air Force One from the White House to New York on Sunday evening, causing a major traffic pile-up as his motorcade made its way from JFK to the city center Traffic was backed up throughout Manhattan as Joe Biden arrived in New York City on Sunday A crowd of people who spotted the Bidens having dinner whipped out their phones to catch them leaving in the president's motorcade Beyond his family struggles, Biden also faces a political war within his own party, as New York Democrats continue to fire criticism at him at every opportunity over the government's handling of the migrant crisis. Around 10,000 refugees are pouring into New York each month, and Mayor Eric Adams warned the problem is now threatening to 'destroy' the city. Adams blamed a lack of federal support, a 'broken' nationwide immigration system and Republicans bussing refugees from their own states into the city for the emergency. Biden's administration have passed the humanitarian issue like a hot potato back to local officials, blaming them for having 'no exit strategy' for processing thousands of people. Former New York Senator Hillary Clinton has also weighed in on the issue, urging Biden to do more to help the beleaguered Big Apple. Two sources close to Clinton told NBC New York she agrees with Adams' assessment of the problem - that a lack of White House help is to blame. But the president's attention will be on global issues at the UN summit, including the war in Ukraine as Volodymyr Zelenskyy takes center stage. For the first time in years, Biden will be the only leader from the five powerful veto-wielding nations on the UN Security Council to attend in person. New York City is struggling to cope with overwhelming numbers of migrants arriving each month and many have been left to sleep on the streets as they await processing As 10,000 refugees continue to pour into the city each month, Mayor Eric Adams (pictured) warned the problem is now threatening to 'destroy' New York City Protesters in New York gather ahead of the UN General Assembly, set to open in the city on September 19 Department of Homeland Security employees have blasted the mayor's office for having 'no exit strategy' for the 10,000 refugees the city takes in each month The lack of attendance has sparked private grumbling from developing-country diplomats that key global players wont be listening to their demands, which need billions of dollars to implement. The conference also comes as a recent UN report warned members are not on track to meet the 2015 Paris Agreement climate targets. Tens of thousands of people flooded the streets of New York on Sunday to call for increased action against climate change ahead of the meeting. Protesters from around 700 organizations and activist groups carried signs reading 'Biden, end fossil fuels' and 'I didn't vote for fires and floods', following a summer marked by multiple climate change-linked disasters. 'We are here to demand that the administration declare a climate emergency,' said Analilia Mejia, director of the activist group Center for Popular Democracy. 'We must wake up and take immediate action,' she told AFP. A UN climate report released this month named 2025 as the deadline for global greenhouse gas emissions to peak - followed by a sharp drop thereafter - if humanity is to cap global warming in line with Paris Agreement targets. Biden might be keen to avoid his City Hall counterparts next week as they continue to fire criticism at him at every opportunity over the handling of the refugee crisis Motorists fumed over the traffic chaos on Twitter. 'F*** the United Nations, NYC and crackhead Mayor Adams creating traffic chaos and complete gridlock on a Sunday,' one man called Jonathan fumed As Biden traveled Manhattan on Sunday, the streets of New York City were blocked again, this time by traffic gridlock as central highways were shut for the president's motorcade to pass through. Motorists fumed over the traffic chaos on Twitter. 'F*** the United Nations, NYC and crackhead Mayor Adams creating traffic chaos and complete gridlock on a Sunday,' one man called Jonathan fumed. 'They block streets, bridges, and tunnels while they escort, fast lane and lay the red carpet for outsiders with a police note of 'use mass transit' to you peasants.' Another man questioned how much more pollution shutting down the streets would cause ahead of the climate-focused summit. 'Maybe he should have taken the air train from JFK,' he said. 'F*** YOU to the UN in NYC for DESTROYING the traffic along 1st and making 40 minute bus ride almost two hours,' a frustrated passenger chimed in. Investigators are probing whether a 'hero' British volunteer who died after volunteering to fight in Ukraine was tortured and killed at the hands of another UK fighter. Jordan Chadwick, a former Scots Guard from Burnley, Lancashire, was found dead in a body of water with his hands tied behind his back in June. The 31-year-old was attached to Ukraine's military intelligence in a unit called the 50/50. And now his fellow fighters say a fellow British fighter waterboarded and killed him, The Sun reports. The case is now being probed by Ukraine's State Bureau of Investigation - who look into war crimes. Jordan Chadwick, a former Scots Guard from Burnley, Lancashire, was found dead in a body of water with his hands tied behind his back in June The 31-year-old was attached to Ukraine's military intelligence in a unit called the 50/50 Chadwick's comrades say the water found in his lungs will not match where he was found 20 miles from the Russian front line in Kramatorsk. It comes just days after a source told the Telegraph that there are fears Chadwick was shot during a petty argument, and there is further speculation that he may have drowned in an initiation ceremony gone wrong. A YouTube channel has claimed the ceremony was devised by a fellow volunteer who used to be in the SAS and said the water found in his lungs did not match the water where he was found according to forensic examinations. Chadwick's death only emerged last week when his mother, Brenda Chadwick, told the BBC she was 'devastated' by the death of her son, who served in the Scots Guards from 2011 to 2015. 'His passion to support freedom and assist others with his skills led him to leave the UK and travel to Ukraine in early October 2022,' Brenda said. 'Although we are extremely proud of his unwavering courage and resilience, his death has been devastating. No words can be found to describe the loss of such a short life. 'A son, brother, grandson, nephew and uncle, who was loved immensely.' His body has been brought home and an inquest will be held next year. Chadwick's comrades say the water found in his lungs will not match where he was found 20 miles from the Russian front line in Kramatorsk It comes just two days after body was found in the hunt for Daniel Burke (pictured), a former paratrooper who went to fight in Ukraine as a volunteer last year It comes just two days after a body was found in the hunt for fellow British volunteer fighter Daniel Burke, who went missing in Ukraine amid fears he had been murdered by fellow foreign legion soldiers in an alleged row over money. Ukrainian authorities informed police officers searching for missing Mr Burke, 36, that they had found a body. The former paratrooper, from South Manchester was reported missing on August 16 this year by his family after they had not heard from him, after he had travelled to Ukraine. Greater Manchester Police said officers are working with the family of the deceased and the Ukrainian authorities to support the identification of Mr Burke and bring him back to the UK. Mr Burke went to fight in Ukraine as a volunteer last year, and then vanished from his flat in the southeastern city of Zaporizhzhia on August 11. It was feared that he could have been killed not by Russian soldiers, but by his fellow foreign legion fighters because of reported disputes and jealousy over the amount of money he was receiving in donations. A mother who died after she was hit with a bean bag round and Tasered by police had livestreamed her stand-off with officers for hours before they broke into her house. Krista Kach, 47, died in hospital on Thursday night following an incident in which she barricaded herself inside her unit in Stockton, Newcastle, about two hours north of Sydney. NSW Police were called to the unit at about 12.30pm that day following reports Ms Kach had threatened real estate agents with an axe over a dispute about a barber shop at the bottom of her building. Ms Kach barricaded herself in her home before specialist tactical officers forced entry into the property at about 9.45pm and used a bean bag round and Taser to arrest her. Krista Kach, 47, died in hospital on Thursday night following an incident in which she barricaded herself inside her unit in Stockton, Newcastle, about two hours north of Sydney Ms Kach had livestreamed parts of her nine-hour stand-off with police on Thursday She was then transported to John Hunter Hospital, where she died. Ms Kach had livestreamed the stand-off for hours where she rambled about topics like sovereign citizens, fraud and espionage. While she appeared to be mostly calm, Ms Kach became visibly upset when police outside her door tried to negotiate. Ms Kach's family have disputed police's version of events, saying they begged for her to receive medical help before she was arrested 'You're trespassing, you're illegal,' she shouted in the livestream, according to a report in the Sydney Morning Herald. 'They are terrorists. This is terrorism. Trying to settle on the porch when you're not invited. What are you going to collect illegal tax revenue? They're not stating any reason they're here ... I haven't done anything. 'I was safe before they arrived.' It's unclear who if anyone was watching the footage. Greens MP and justice spokeswoman Sue Higginson called for a parliamentary inquiry into NSW Police after she obtained four hours of footage from Ms Kach's livestream leading up to the arrest. She said the footage showed Ms Kach was scared, alone, unarmed and experiencing a mental health episode while police in riot gear 'hovered' on the veranda outside her window. 'Krista was lying on her bed watching a children's movie for at least an hour before the police broke into her home,' Ms Higginson said. 'You have to ask what the hell was the purpose of the police operation? 'The police are not equipped to deal with such situations. That's why we keep seeing vulnerable people killed at the hands of police.' A 47-year-old woman has died following a nine-hour standoff with police (pictured, tactical officers entering the property) Ms Kach's family have disputed police's version of events, saying they begged for her to receive medical help before she was arrested. Her family said Ms Kach was stressed because she had been told that day she was being evicted from her home. It's understood she had a dispute with her landlord over the barber shop, resulting in her being handed a 14-day eviction notice. 'We told the police in no uncertain terms that she was not well that day and she needed medical help,' the family said in a statement. 'We were assured that the police would look after our mother and that she would be cared for by a hospital and qualified medical professionals. 'What happened on Thursday was a disturbing and heartbreaking response by the police to a vulnerable person that had been told that she would soon be homeless.' NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna said the woman suffered injuries during the confrontation but was able to walk to an ambulance. 'Shortly thereafter her condition deteriorated. She was taken to John Hunter Hospital and, unfortunately, she later died that evening.' An autopsy will confirm the woman's cause of death. Commissioner McKenna said she had no 'significant' history with police with only a 'minor matter many years ago' on record. He did not comment on whether she suffered a mental health episode. The unit has been declared a crime scene with Homicide Squad officers investigating the incident. An independent critical investigation of the NSW Police operation is underway. A report will be prepared for the coroner. The 47-year-old Stockton woman's death follows the tasering of great-grandmother Clare Nowland. Joyce was asked five times whether he shared Mundine's views Fractures in the No campaign about what happens should the Indigenous Voice to Parliament be voted down have let to bizarre scenes on Sunrise. Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce failed to back leading No campaigner Warren Mundine on Monday morning, a day after the Bundjalung man suggested a No vote was the best way to achieve treaty and threw his support behind changing the date of Australia Day. Mr Mundine - who last week reiterated he would seek a position on the Voice if the Yes vote was successful - made the comments on ABC's Insiders program at Sunday. Australians will vote in the first referendum since 1999 in less than four weeks on October 14. The comments are at odds with much of the conservative No campaign, which has warned that the Voice would be a gateway for 'costly' treaties. Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce failed to back leading No campaigner Warren Mundine on Monday morning despite being asked five times by Sunrise host Natalie Barr Mr Mundine threw his support behind changing the date of Australia Day in comments made on ABC's Insiders program at Sunday And, earlier this month, it was revealed that No volunteers were being instructed to tap into fear and warn Australians that the Voice would be seeking to change the date of Australia Day. Asked five times whether he shared Mr Mundine's aspirations and opinion, Mr Joyce would not be drawn on Monday morning, instead calling for Australians not to change the 'status quo'. 'I can tell you that delivering on the Uluru statement in the full is Yes to the referendum, yes to treaty,' he told Sunrise host Nat Barr. He was cut off by Barr, who asked him plainly: 'Do you support Warren Mundine, one of your fellow No believers?' Mr Joyce responded: 'I state the obvious of where we are now, we live in the status quo and that has been incredibly good to Australia'. Leading Yes advocates and senior government ministers have seized upon the split. Mr Joyce's panel-mate, Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek, sought to call out the Nationals MP for not clearly taking a position on Mr Mundine's statements. 'Why won't Barnaby answer the question,' she said. Mr Joyce's panel-mate, Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek, sought to call out the Nationals MP for not clearly taking a position on Mr Mundine's statements Mr Joyce was cut off by Natalie Barr during an interview on Monday morning, who asked him plainly: 'Do you support Warren Mundine, one of your fellow no believers?' Mr Mundine's comments are directly at odds with fellow leading No campaigner, senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, who in a speech to the National Press Club last week said she feared treaty and reparations for Indigenous people would be the Voice's main priorities. Senator Nampijinpa Price said she opposed treaties because 'you can't have a treaty with your own citizens'. In comparison, Mr Mundine said he supported treaties with local Aboriginal groups to protect heritage and culture, but he opposed any national treaty with Indigenous people. Asked whether there was a contradiction between his view and that of his fellow No campaigners, Mr Mundine said: 'That's correct. I always stand strong on this. 'I know people on my side don't agree with me on these two issues: treaties, and the changing of the date.' More than 200,000 people who turned out across the country to participate in Walk for Yes rallies on Sunday (pictured, Anthony Albanese and Noel Pearson on Saturday) While the No campaign looks to recalibrate after the split in views emerged, the Yes campaign has been buoyed by the more than 200,000 people who turned out across the country to participate in Walk for Yes rallies on Sunday. Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney told the Melbourne crowd - somewhere between 30,000 and 60,000 people - that it was 'truly overwhelming' to see so many people turn up. 'To know where your hearts are, to know where your spirit lives. And that you, like us, want to embrace this opportunity to move this country forward together,' she said. 'Each and every one of you can help answer the call from generations of Indigenous people seeking to be recognised and seeking to be heard. 'For 65,000 years, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have been speaking 363 languages but no Voice. In 27 days, you have the power to do something about it.' A man is fighting for his life after an alleged assault in the early hours of the morning with his friends 'praying for a huge miracle'. Lincoln Hoad, 32, was allegedly attacked outside a pub in the rural Queensland town of Dalby, 208km west of Brisbane, at 1.15am on Saturday. A 33-year-old man from Capalaba was later charged with grievous bodily harm following the alleged assault on Cunningham Street. The police allege that two men got into a fight before Mr Hoad was hit, causing him to fall to the ground and hit his head. Emergency crews were called and he was taken to Dalby Hospital in a critical condition. Lincoln Hoad (pictured left, with his partner Shalika) was allegedly attacked outside a pub in a rural Queensland town Mr Hoad, who is from Dalby, was later flown to the Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane. The man charged with assaulting him will appear in Dalby Magistrates Court on Monday, September 18. READ MORE: South Australian five-year-old boy with brain cancer denied NDIS funding The family of a boy who is dying from brain cancer have been left shattered after he was denied NDIS funding. Advertisement Mr Hoad's friend Shayden Russell has launched a fundraising campaign to help support Shalika, Mr Hoad's partner of more than a decade. '(They) have been together for over 14 years and there was no doubt they were each other's soulmates,' Ms Russell said on the GoFundMe page. 'They had big plans for the future ahead when this tragedy happened. We are praying for a huge miracle.' The fundraising page said Mr Hoad on life support after sustaining a severe brain bleed and that his chance of survival was minimal. 'For those of you who were fortunate enough to meet Lincoln, (you) knew he was always there to help out, no matter who you were or what time of the day it was,' Ms Russell said. 'He was an outgoing, loud, funny, loveable guy his smile was infectious and he would know how to cheer you up straight away! 'He was always there when you needed to vent or have a chat,' she said. The fundraiser had already raised more than $12,000 of its $15,000 goal by Monday morning. 10 most famous Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in India you can't miss India's bustling and well-known Ganesh Chaturthi festival honors Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity of knowledge and prosperity. Ganesha idols are installed during the event, along with prayers, customs, and public meetings. Thomas Cook and SOTC Travel have created a list of 10 of India's most well-known Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations that you shouldn't miss: Mumbai, Maharashtra: Mumbai is known for its epic Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. Massive Ganesha idols, ornate decorations, and spectacular processions bring the city to life. The Arabian Sea idol immersion is a highlight that draws a sizable number of people. Pune, Maharashtra: Pune is known for its rich cultural legacy and its Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. Throughout the festival, the city hosts a large number of pandals (temporary decorative buildings) and holds a number of cultural events. Hyderabad, Telangana: Huge processions with finely carved idols highlight Hyderabad's Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. The towering and beautifully crafted idols of the Khairatabad Ganesh are especially well known. Bengal, West: Kolkata: While Ganesh Chaturthi is not as well-known in Kolkata as it is in other regions of India, the city nevertheless sees some lovely decorations and celebrations, frequently fusing the event with local culture. Delhi: Ganesh Chaturthi is enthusiastically observed in the capital city. Ganesha idols can be found in numerous pandals and temples, and the festival spirit permeates the entire city. Chennai, Tamil Nadu: The Ganesh Chaturthi festivities in Chennai are a blend of tradition and fun. In addition to processions, idols are kept in the Kapaleeshwarar Temple and other nearby temples. Goa: Ganesh Chaturthi is enthusiastically observed in Goa. After the event, many villages construct lovely pandals and submerge the idols in rivers or the sea. Nashik, Maharashtra: Nashik celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi with colorful processions and imaginative idols. An important event is the submersion of the idols in the Godavari River. Bengaluru, Karnataka: Bengaluru hosts a variety of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, including neighborhood fairs and private homes with idols. Important locations include the Bull Temple and the Dodda Ganesh Temple. Jaipur, Rajasthan: The popularity of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in Jaipur is growing. A magnificent display of decorations and public processions mark the celebration. These are just a few of India's numerous, exuberant Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. The festival is enhanced by the distinct flavors of each location, creating a genuinely vibrant and varied celebration of the birth of Lord Ganesha. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says he believes World War Three could become a reality if the U.S. does not continue to support Ukraine having already contributed roughly $70 billion towards the effort. Speaking on 60 Minutes Sunday night, Zelensky compared Russian President Vladimir Putin to Adolf Hitler. 'The whole world [has to] decide whether we want to stop Putin, or whether we want to start the beginning of a world war. We can't change Putin. Russian society has [lost] the respect of the world,' Zelensky said. 'They elected him and re-elected him and raised a second Hitler. They did this. We cannot go back in time. But we can stop it here.' Zelensky is expected at the White House and on Capitol Hill this week as he visits the U.S. during the United Nations General Assembly. The Ukrainian president made a wartime visit to Washington in December 2022 and delivered an impassioned address to a joint meeting of Congress. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said he believes World War Three could become a reality if the U.S. does not maintain its support for Ukraine Zelenskyy is scheduled to visit the White House and Capitol Hill during his visit to the United States for the United Nations General Assembly this week. He is pictured there in December At the time, it was his first known trip outside his country since Russia invaded in February 2022. He is expected to to make the case for the U.S. to continue to provide support for his war-torn country. 'We're defending the values of the whole world. And these are Ukrainian people who are paying the highest price. We are truly fighting for our freedom, we are dying. We are not fiction, we are not a book. We are fighting for real with a nuclear state that threatens to destroy the world,' Zelensky told CBS News. 'If Ukraine falls, what will happen in ten years? Just think about it. If [the Russians] reach Poland, what's next? A Third World War?' he asked. A daughter of a Ukrainian prisoner of war holds a portrait of her father during a rally demanding an acceleration of the exchange of prisoners near the building of the coordination headquarters for the treatment of prisoners of war in Kyiv. Pictured last week 'If Ukraine falls, what will happen in ten years? Just think about it. If [the Russians] reach Poland, what's next? A Third World War?' Zelensky asked. U.S. has already contributed approximately $70bn with Congress now divided on whether to funnel further cash to the war effort. Joe Biden walks with Zelensky last December 60 Minutes Scott Pelley asks Ukrainian President Zelenskyy: Can you give up any part of Ukraine for peace? https://t.co/KVMb7F0epu pic.twitter.com/vIn6y6fwHH 60 Minutes (@60Minutes) September 18, 2023 This time, however, Congress is increasingly divided over providing additional funding for Ukraine as the war is well into its second year. Biden has sought a package of $13.1 billion in additional military aid for Ukraine and $8.5 billion for humanitarian support. It also includes $2.3 billion for financing and to catalyze donors through the World Bank. But conservative Republican lawmakers have been pushing for broad federal spending cuts and some of those allied with Donald Trump, the former president, are specifically looking to stop money to Ukraine. Noting the $70 billion the U.S. has already sent to Ukraine, Zelensky was asked if he expected that level of support to continue. 'The United States of America [is] supporting Ukraine financially and I'm grateful for this,' Zelensky said. Zelensky noted how he had not received some military aide fast enough but is thankful for the support of President Biden. Zelensky compared Russia's President Vladimir Putin, right, to Adolf Hitler. Putin is seen meeting with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un, left, last week Hitler is seen with his bodyguards in 1931 at a meeting of the Nazi party in Bad Harzburg Ukrainian officials tell us Ukraine and Russia have lost their professional armies. Now, the forces are made up of volunteers, draftees, and, in Russias case, prison inmates. https://t.co/nsuM5ojk9w pic.twitter.com/TRFoVgrmPe 60 Minutes (@60Minutes) September 18, 2023 'I just think they're not supporting only Ukraine. If Ukraine falls, Putin will surely go further. What will the United States of America do when Putin reaches the Baltic states? When he reaches the Polish border? He will. This is a lot of money. We have a lot of gratitude. What else must Ukraine do for everyone to measure our huge gratitude? We are dying in this war.' When asked how much more money would Ukraine need, Zelensky was unable to specify a figure. 'I don't have an answer,' Zelensky said, noting that Putin will continue to threaten the possibility of nuclear war stoking instability in the United States and Europe. 'I think that he's going to continue threatening,' Zelensky said. 'He is waiting for the United States to become less stable. He thinks that's going to happen during the U.S. election. He will be looking for instability in Europe and the United States of America. He will use the risk of using nuclear weapons to fuel that [instability]. He will keep on threatening.' During Sunday night's interview Zelensky admitted how progress had been slow in the Ukrainian counter-offensive but insisted the troops were steadily moving forward with around 40,000 shells a day being fired by Ukrainian troops. 'It's a difficult situation. I will be completely honest with you. We have the initiative. This is a plus. We stopped the Russian offensive and we moved onto a counter-offensive. And despite that, it's not very fast. It is important that we are moving forward every day and liberating territory. 'We need to liberate our territory as much as possible and move forward, even if it's less than [half a mile or] a hundred [yards] we must do it,' Zelensky continued. 'We mustn't give Putin a break.' Zelensky was asked what he thought Putin was trying to achieve by killing civilians in the country. 'To break [us]. And by choosing civilian targets, Putin wanted to achieve exactly this to break [us]. This person who has made his way with such bloody actions, with everything he has said, cannot be trusted. There is no trust in such a person because he has not been a human being for a long time,' Zelensky said. A Jetstar passenger booted off a flight after allegedly verbally abusing a mum with a baby has broken his silence about the dramatic incident. Ryan Lachlan Martin, 25, was filmed being dragged off a Gold Coast-bound plane by Australian Federal Police at Sydney Domestic Airport on Saturday morning. The viral footage shows officers asking Martin - who was sporting bright orange hair - to get off the flight to speak to them before forcibly removing him when he refused to budge. Witnesses claim Martin had earlier been shouting at the mum and threatening to 'get her' once the plane landed in Queensland. He since been charged with endangering the safety of an aircraft. But the self-described entrepreneur and DJ claims fellow passengers have been exaggerating what really happened when commenting on posts about the incident online. Ryan Lachlan Martin, 25 (pictured right, alongside Dutch DJ Armin Van Buuren) has been charged with endangering the safety of an aircraft Speaking exclusively to Daily Mail Australia, Martin admitted what he said to the woman was 'along those lines' but claimed the situation has been 'completely blown out of proportion'. Asked how he was going, Mr Martin said he has been better given the furore which has erupted over the past few days. He said he did not wish to talk further about what happened as his matter is now before the courts. 'At the moment I am dealing with lawyers and with the courts. I have a court date. So I will not be doing any interviews,' he said. Martin, who lives in the Gold Coast, has a social media page dedicated to his DJing pursuits, under his stage name 'MVRTO' where he also describes himself as an 'entrepreneur'. In September last year, he issued a post announcing he was kickstarting a career in the industry and would be playing in an upcoming competition. 'Very happy to finally announce publicly that I'm taking part in QLD's 2022 Your Shot DJ Competition as a beginner entry,' he wrote. Martin created a page dedicated to his music producing pursuits, under the moniker MVRTO The aspiring DJ told Daily Mail Australia the situation had been 'completely blown out of proportion' The post was one of three promotional write-ups Martin made on the day the account was launched, with the account - which has 56 followers - remaining inactive since. However, he has remained active on other social media accounts - where he frequently posts promotional photos for techno music events across the country. On Monday morning, amid his newfound legal battle, he shared a throwback photo of him posing alongside famous Dutch DJ Armin Van Buuren - while wearing a shirt featuring the artist's name. 'What a moment. A photo with my fave dance artist.' Pictured: Martin being dragged off the flight on Saturday Footage taken by a fellow passenger shows Martin telling officers 'I've done nothing wrong' as they ask him to step off the plane. 'I'm not going anywhere, I've got work in f**ing six hours on the Gold Coast,' Martin said. 'Mate you're going,' the officer said, before unclipping the passenger's seatbelt. 'Get your hands off me, I will get up [on my own],' the passenger said, as the two officers lifted him up. 'That's harassment. Get off me. I will walk. Get off me.' While one officer backs up the aircraft aisle pulling the man, the second stands behind marching him out of the plane while holding the back of his black T-shirt. The woman who posted the clip said passengers 'all cheered' once Martin was off the flight. Martin is an electronic music fanatic and frequently posts about upcoming music events online A Jetstar spokesperson said crew requested police assistance after a passenger allegedly became 'increasingly disruptive'. 'The safety of our customers and crew is our number one priority and we have zero tolerance for this type of behaviour,' she said. AFP confirmed in a statement a 25-year-old male passenger was charged with endangering the safety of an aircraft after being removed from a flight. 'The AFP responded to a report of a male passenger allegedly being disruptive on a plane prior to take-off from Sydney Airport yesterday morning,' a spokesman said. Martin is due to face court on October 9, with the location yet to be determined. The maximum penalty for endangering the safety of an aircraft is 10 years in jail. Two glamorous English backpackers who were looking for a room to rent have been inundated with a series of creepy offers. Stevie Davies and her friend put a callout for a vacant room in a Facebook group hoping to find a place in Sydney's ritzy eastern suburbs. Ms Davies shared a number of photos from a trip in Bali showing the pair dressed in summer outfits and pouting. 'We are looking to share a room - anywhere from Zetland, Bondi, Randwick, Coogee etc,' the post read. Two glamorous English backpackers who were looking for a room to rent have been inundated with a series of creepy offers Stevie Davies and her friend put a callout for a vacant room in a Facebook group hoping to find a place in Sydney's ritzy eastern suburbs 'Both English, will be working, in our late twenties & both sick at cooking.' Ms Davies listed a price guide of 600 - which is $1,156 Australian dollars. The price is well within the price range of rent in Sydney with the average cost sitting at $700 a week. The social media post immediately drew in a number of disturbing offers from men with one offering to share their bed. 'I will kick my girlfriend out, when would you ladies like to move in?' another wrote. A third added: 'You still got that room with the spy hole?' One suggested he would move back to the area just to live with the two women. 'We gonna have to convert the front room to sleeping quarters,' a second wrote. Ms Davies (pictured) saw the humour and responded with a laughing emoji 'FFS do something,' another added. Other social media users made light of the situation joking residents should not rent their rooms out to them. 'Messy girls, avoid!' one wrote in a tongue-in-cheek comment. Ms Davies saw the humour and responded with a laughing emoji. Daily Mail Australia contacted Ms Davies for comment. The heartbroken family of a young mother-of-three who died when her car hit a tree and burst into flames have paid tribute by stripping at the site where she crashed. Tori Pearsall, 27, was killed when her Toyota Corolla veered off Kargotich Road in Mardella, south of Perth, went down an embankment and smashed into a tree at about 3.30am on September 9. The vehicle caught fire with Ms Pearsall still inside. She died before emergency workers arrived, leaving behind her three kids and her partner of 14 years. On Tuesday, her sister Kirra Panaia uploaded a video on social media which showed a memorial at the scene of the crash. The scorched ground was decorated with flowers and a sign that read 'RIP Tori'. Tori Pearsall (pictured with her kids) died on September 9 when her car hit a tree and burst into flames Police are still investigating the cause of the crash. Pictured: Ms Pearsall's car after it rolled down an embankment and hit a tree In the footage, Ms Panaia and a friend could be seen drinking pink liquid from a glass bottle, before pouring some of its contents over the flowers. At the end of the video, the group took dropped their pants and mooned the camera. Ms Panaia wrote in the caption: 'RIP my sister, I love you dawgggy but that doesn't mean I don't hate you right now.' 'You know how sometimes we say s**t we don't mean and we can't take it back well ... as much as I wish u could take this back u can't and I'll never forgive you for leaving me.' She also revealed the family had lost their father, adding 'u think ur funny going to see dad before us don't ya?' 'I guess at least [you] aren't alone that's one good thing but I tell u no one in the world has hurt me like this.' Ms Pearsall's mother, Yvette Leifsson, also wrote a heartfelt post revealing the last thing she said to her daughter was 'I love you'. Ms Pearsall's friends and family made a memorial at the site where she died (pictured) A family member could be seen drinking from a bottle, before pouring some of its contents on the flowers 'If I can take anything away from all this mess it's knowing that ever time I speak to my beautiful kids the last thing I say is "I love you" and they say it back,' she wrote on social media. 'I get comfort knowing that my daughter Tori new that I loved her with all my heart.' She also shared a message for all parents: 'Please tell your kids you love them because you dont know when it will be the last time.' Ms Pearsall had been moving house and was on the way to her sister's place, where her kids were staying, before the crash. A family friend set up a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for the funeral. A spokesman from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services said four fire trucks from Rockingham arrived at the scene at about 3.50am - when the car was engulphed in flames. Firefighters then extinguished about 25m of surrounding grass that had caught alight. A police spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia on Monday that the cause of the crash is still under investigation. An elderly woman is in a critical condition after she was struck by a truck on one of Sydney's busiest roads as a paramedic with distinctive face tattoos led the frantic efforts to save her life. Emergency crews raced to the scene on the City West Link at Lilyfield, close to Norton Street in Sydney's inner-west, shortly before 11am on Monday following reports a pedestrian had been hit by a truck. The pedestrian, a 66-year-old woman, was treated at the scene for serious injuries and rushed to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in a critical condition. Harrowing footage from the scene shows emergency responders surrounding the critically injured woman as she laid on the stretcher covered in blood. She was shielded from the searing heat and passing traffic by a white sheet as paramedics carefully placed her into the ambulance. The injured pedestrian was surrounded by emergency responders trying to save her life Emergency responders used a white sheet to shield the elderly patient as temperatures surged above 30C The male truck driver was not injured but was taken to hospital to undergo mandatory testing. Emergency crews remain at the scene. Officers from Strike Force Raptor were among the police units called to the scene. 'A crime scene has been established, and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident has commenced,' a NSW Police statement read. Citybound lanes on the City West Link remain closed with traffic diverted to Norton St, Lilyfield and Balmain Roads. Motorists are urged to use either Parramatta or Victoria Road as an alternative route. The woman was rushed to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in a critical condition Emergency responders remain at the scene as they investigate what happened 'Local diversions are in place. Follow the directions of emergency services on site,' a Live Traffic Sydney alert states. The traffic and highway patrol unit urged motorists to avoid travel through the area and shared a photo of multiple emergency vehicles at the scene. 'Lengthy delays expected,' police added. Westbound lanes on the City West Link remain open to traffic. Anyone with dashcam footage or witnessed the crash is urged to call Crime Stoppers. It was among several traffic incidents across Sydney on Monday morning, including a two truck crash on the M4 at Eastern Creek, a multi-vehicle smash on Mamre Road in nearby Orchard Hills and a diesel spill on the M5 at Hammondville. It follows the death of single mother Leonia Picone, who was hit and killed by a semi-trailer in Wetherill Park last month while giving her teenage son a driving lesson. She was farewelled by more than 200 friends and family at her funeral last week. Police and paramedics remain at the scene where a female pedestrian was by a truck A man has been left fighting for life and a cat killed after the pair were set upon by two Rottweilers in a vicious attack. Emergency services were called to a home on George Road at Leppington, in Sydney's southwest, at about 7.30am on Monday. A man aged in his 50s had been on a walk when he was suddenly attacked by the dogs who had escaped from a private property. The victim was left with bite wounds to his head, neck, arm and leg. A man has been rushed to hospital after being attacked by two Rottweilers while out on a walk in Leppington in Sydney's south-west Emergency services were called to the scene at about 7.30am on Monday A cat at a neighbouring home was also reportedly killed by the dogs. The man was transported to Liverpool Hospital where he remains in a critical condition. It's understood the man had been walking past the house when the dogs attacked. NSW Police confirmed two dogs had been seized by council rangers. Two Rottweilers were seen in cages following the attack. A Camden Council spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia the dogs' owner had decided to have the Rottweilers put down. The council had not been contacted about the dogs before Monday's attack. Inquiries are ongoing. NSW Police confirmed two dogs had been seized by council rangers who are investigating the incident President Biden is sending a team from the White House with the aim of helping to resolve the strike of the nation's largest autoworkers union with the Big Three automakers planning to be in Detroit to support negotiations 'early in the week.' White House adviser Gene Sperling and acting Labor Secretary Julie Su traveled to Detroit with the aim of reaching an agreement to end the strike initiated by the United Auto Workers union, which began on Friday. Sperling, who has been actively involved in key issues related to the union and the auto companies, has been coordinating efforts with Su. An administration official stated, 'Both Sperling and acting Secretary Su are engaging with the parties by phone, as they have for weeks, with the intention of being there early in the week. The Administration is pleased that the parties are continuing to meet as they had been before the contract expired.' President Biden has dispatched a White House team to Detroit to assist in resolving the strike involving United Auto Workers union and the Big Three automakers United Auto Workers member Brian Rooster Heppner raises his fist as he cheers during a rally in Detroit, on Friday United Auto Workers members march through downtown Detroit on Friday. The UAW is conducting a strike against Ford, Stellantis and General Motors Su and Sperling's objective is not to act as mediators or intervene directly but rather to offer support in ways that the negotiating parties find constructive, according to the official. The union representing workers at General Motors, Ford and Stellantis is seeking a 40 percent raise for its workers. The walkout is limited for now to three assembly plants: a GM factory in Wentzville, Missouri, a Ford plant near Detroit, and a Jeep plant run by Stellantis in Toledo, Ohio. The United Auto Workers chief warned on Sunday that a historic strike at the top three car manufacturers will expand if the companies do not raise their wage offers in ongoing negotiations. Stellantis, one of the three, had offered its workers what it called a 'highly competitive' wage increase of 21 percent over four years, but UAW President Shawn Fain called that 'definitely a no-go.' Labor Secretary Julie Su is part of a White House delegation sent to Detroit in a bid to resolve strikes UAW Local 685 President Garry Quirk said hat Biden had not done enough to prevent a strike, saying: 'I don't know what he's done' As part of its demands, the UAW wants to represent employees at battery plants, which would send ripple effects through an industry that has seen supply chains upended by technological changes 'If we don't get better offers and... take care of the members' needs, we're going to amp this up even more,' Fain told CBS News talk show 'Face the Nation,' saying General Motors, Ford and Stellantis have 'no excuse' for not resolving salary disputes given their massive profits of recent years. 'We're prepared to do whatever we have to do. The membership is ready, the membership is fed up.' The UAW is demanding improved conditions across the board for its workers, including a 40 percent pay raise over the next four-year contract. All three companies have been offering raises of around 20 percent. A UAW source confirmed the union held talks with General Motors on Sunday, the third day of the strike, but offered no further details. The standoff has fed already acrimonious debate in Washington over President Joe Biden's economic policies ahead of the 2024 election -- and whether he has done enough to avert or resolve the auto dispute. Biden, the self-described 'most pro-union president in American history,' spoke with UAW boss Shawn Fain and the three auto company CEOs in a futile last-ditch bid to avoid a strike Jim Farley, President and CEO of the Ford Motor Company speaks to reporters about the UAW contract talks at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit last week Only 12,700 of the union's 150,000 workers are currently on strike, but Fain's comments pointed to the possibility of a much broader action, with echoes throughout the economy. On Friday, President Biden expressed hope that the UAW and the Big Three automakers would return to the bargaining table. He acknowledged the frustration among workers, emphasizing that while automobile companies were reporting 'record profits,' the gains had not been passed along to the workforce. Biden said that profits had not 'been shared fairly, in my view, with those workers. 'Let's be clear: No one wants a strike. But I respect workers' right to use their options under the collective bargaining system,' he said at the White House. The strike poses a unique challenge for the president who has previously identified himself as 'the most pro-union president you've ever seen.' Senator Bernie Sanders and Fain (left) speak at a rally in support of United Auto Workers members as they strike the Big Three automakers on Friday in Detroit Members of the UAW union march through the streets of downtown Detroit following a rally on the first day of the UAW strike in Detroit Democrats have lined up solidly behind the autoworkers. 'The president has made it clear which side he is on in this struggle,' liberal senator Bernie Sanders said on CNN, adding that Biden had repeatedly said 'that a strong labor movement benefits all of us.' On social media, Vice President Kamala Harris said she agreed that 'a new contract should promote good middle-class jobs -- and ensure the UAW remains at the heart of our auto economy.' Historically, the UAW has supported Democratic candidates like Biden, but former President Donald Trump garnered significant support from blue-collar autoworkers. Trump, who holds a resounding lead in polls over other Republican presidential aspirants, has been critical of the union's leadership and of Biden's focus on promoting EV manufacturing. 'The auto workers will not have any jobs... because all of these cars are going to be made in China -- the electric cars, automatically, are going to be made in China,' Trump said in an interview aired Sunday on NBC's 'Meet the Press. Before the strike was officially declared, UAW President Shawn Fain had pointed out that a walkout would force Biden and other politicians to take sides in the organized labor dispute. As of midnight on Friday, approximately 13,000 UAW members initiated strikes at various locations, including a General Motors facility in Missouri, a Stellantis center in Ohio, and a Ford assembly plant in Michigan. On Friday, Ford said it was indefinitely laying off 600 workers at a Michigan plant because of the impact of the strike at the facility, which makes the Bronco, and GM told some 2,000 workers at a Kansas car plant that their factory likely would be shut down Monday or Tuesday due to a lack of parts stemming from the strike at a GM Missouri plant. Should all UAW members go on strike, the union's strike fund would be sufficient to provide around 11 weeks of strike pay. A cargo train filled to the brim with migrants was spotted speeding toward the Mexican border with the United States, as it looks to add hundreds to the crisis border towns face with the overwhelming influx of migrants. Astounding footage of the FerroMex train was shot as the locomotive with hundreds in tow could be seen coming out of the Central Mexican city of Zacatecas as it made its way northbound on the 750-mile journey toward the U.S. Container after container could be seen filled with migrants getting an easy ride as the goods train zoomed by. There was whistling and cheering from those on board as the group hitched a ride. Some of the travelers could even be seen hanging out from the sides of the train. The train was headed for the U.S. southern border - where in the southwest, roughly 2 million migrants have already made their way into America in 2023. Border towns have been crushed by the influx thanks to the lax border policies of the Biden administration. A freight train, packed to capacity with migrants, has been captured on video as it travels at full speed toward the Mexican border with the United States Footage shows the FerroMex train departing from the Central Mexican city of Zacatecas, heading north on a 750-mile journey toward the U.S. The train's containers were filled with migrants offering them an easy ride as the train raced by **NEW VIDEO** FOX News sources capture a FerroMex train bursting with migrants out of Zacatecas heading to our southern border right now cheering and clearly not heeding the message: do not come@FoxNews pic.twitter.com/YflMwXrWqu Griff Jenkins (@GriffJenkins) September 17, 2023 The migrants looked to have prepared themselves for a long journey with many having erected tents and canvas over portions of the containers in a bid to shield themselves from the elements. The video comes as the latest figures from U.S. Customs and Border Patrol show a rise in the number of encounters with migrants at the Southern Border. In July there were almost 184,000 migrant crossings into the U.S. - up from 144,000 encounters with border patrol from June. Although the figures rose on a month-by-month basis, the numbers are still well below that of previous years when in 2021 and 2022 more than 200,000 crossed into the U.S. from Mexico. The U.S. border has seen a flood of migrants from across the world, not just Central and South American nations such as Venezuela and Mexico. There have been migrants from China and other places entering via the porous southern border. The video comes as recent data from U.S. Customs and Border Patrol reveals an increase in encounters with migrants at the Southern Border between June and July of this year Migrants seeking asylum in the United States gather near a border fence on the banks of the Rio Bravo river, the border between the U.S. and Mexico, as seen from Ciudad Juarez, Mexico on Saturday The migrants looked to have prepared themselves for a long journey with many having erected tents and canvas over portions of the containers in a bid to shield themselves from the elements Migrants travel on a train, with the intention of reaching the United States, in Ciudad Juarez, seen last month Migrants help one another climb over a barbed wire fence into the U.S. from Mexico, in Eagle Pass, Texas, last month The 2022 fiscal year saw record-breaking numbers of encounters with migrants at the Southwest border with 2,378,944 reported crossings from October to September. In 2023, through July, there have been 1,973,092 - many of them coming as Title 42 expired. The number of migrant crossings in August is set to exceed 230,000, according to Fox News. Most migrant encounters are single adults, at 64.9 percent, but almost 600,000 are individuals in a family unit and there have been 109,298 unaccompanied minors crossing the border. Issues of overcapacity are happening all across the southern border. Along with Tucson - street releases are happening in the San Diego sector and in Santa Cruz County, California. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has shuttled over 35,000 migrants from his state to 'sanctuary cities' across the U.S., including over 13,300 to New York City Security forces watched on as migrants tried to enter the U.S. after crossing the Rio Grande River, in Matamoros, Mexico ahead of the end of Title 42 The crisis at the border was escalated in April with the expiration of Title 42, a pandemic-era immigration policy - leading to over 10,000 undocumented arrivals every day for several days In an aerial view, immigrants line up to be processed to make asylum claims at a makeshift migrant camp, in May, in El Paso, Texas Texas is using razor wire to block migrants illegally entering as it battles a challenge from the Biden administration seeking to stop it from building a buoy barrier in the Rio Grande. The Lone Stat State has also been busing migrants to 'sanctuary cities' such as New York, Chicago, Philadelphia and Los Angeles in order to give border towns some relief. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott argues that Texas cities have carried the weight of illegal immigration and 'sanctuary cities' need to share that burden. 'Texas has bused over 35,000 migrants to self-declared sanctuary cities,' he wrote earlier this month on Twitter. 'Over 11,300 to D.C., over 13,300 to NYC, over 6,700 to Chicago, over 2,600 to Philadelphia, over 1,000 to Denver, over 480 to LA.' Border Patrol agents in San Diego have set hundreds of migrants free from buses as the US-Mexico border crisis continues to overwhelm California The city is struggling to deal with a surge of migrants in the area and footage captured shows them being let go from overflowing facilities It comes as Southwest border towns and federal processing centers are overcapacity as a crush of crossings cripples the nation Southwest border towns and federal processing centers are overcapacity as a crush of crossings cripples the nation. Last week there were more than 7,000 illegal crossings across the U.S.-Mexico border on several days. Photos depicted at least three white unmarked Border Patrol buses filled with migrants parked in San Diego. They started releasing several hundreds of people onto the streets. One migrant was told by an agent: 'You're free to go on and do wherever you want. You're free.' He asked: 'It's no problem if I go to Chicago?' 'You can do whatever you want,' the official replied. Border Patrol in San Diego has reportedly been dealing with 20,000 migrants in custody last week - 5,000 more than facilities can manage. It can't accommodate more than 15,000 migrants and migrants are being released onto the streets to fend for themselves after being processed at the border. Similar migrant releases took place in Tucson, Arizona, with agents coming across 2,000 people a day and dealing with packed shelters. Border Patrol in San Diego has reportedly been dealing with 20,000 migrants in custody over the last week - 5,000 more than facilities can manage There have been over 7,000 illegal crossings across the U.S.-Mexico border on multiple days this week People from the African nations of Senegal, Mauritania, Ghana, Sudan are part of the migrants who have recently made crossings into the U.S. from Mexico. Cochise County, Arizona, is being slammed with waves of migrants bussed from other counties after crossing the border amid President Joe Biden's lax policies. 'The intellectual avoidance and abandonment with intended consequences' by those leaders in Washington, DC, reference our southern border continues to be a slippery slope for those doing everything we can to protect our quality of life here in Cochise County!' Sheriff Mark Dannels said. 'The migrants being released are from outside Cochise County but were bussed to Cochise County, processed and then released,' Daniels noted in a Facebook post. 'I applaud the local [Customs and Border Protections] agents and their leadership for doing all they legally can during this on-going crisis.' It's unclear exactly how many migrants the processing facilities in Tucson can accommodate or how many have been transported to other locations such as Cochise County. U.S. Border Patrol officers are turning migrants away after processing them because their facilities are overcrowded and full to max-capacity A man has been arrested after two female students were stabbed at the Australian National University in Canberra. ACT Policing and ACT Ambulance Service were called to the university at 2:45pm on Monday. Two women, both aged 20, were found with stab wounds and taken to hospital. One is in a critical condition and the other is in a stable condition. One woman was seen being wheeled away on a stretcher by paramedics near the library. A man, 34, was also assaulted and sustained minor injuries. He was not taken to hospital. A man, 24, has been taken into custody. He has not been charged. Two female students were stabbed at the Australian National University in Canberra (pictured, police at the crime scene) The two female students were rushed to hospital. One is in a critical condition and the other is in a stable condition It's understood the man was not a student at the university. ACT Police have said they are not looking for anyone else in relation to the incident. The motivation behind the attack is not yet known. ANU sent out an email informing staff and students about the incident this afternoon. 'An individual is in police custody and there is no threat to the community,' the email read. The university had also warned students to 'stay away' from Fellows Oval, which is near the Chifley Library. 'There has been an incident on campus. Police are at the scene and have the situation under control, with an individual in custody,' the university tweeted. Students received a message via the university's security app at the time of the attack. Emergency services were called to the university just before 3pm on Monday following reports of a stabbing A man, 24, was arrested at the scene but has not been charged. Police are not looking for anyone else in relation to the incident ANU had sent out an email informing staff and students about the stabbing incident 'Police are at the scene and an individual is in custody,' the alert said. 'Please stay away from Fellows Oval there is no threat to the community.' The people involved were reportedly in different areas of the university at the time. Witnesses are urged to visit the City Police Station or call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. As a part of her visit to Sri Lanka, Speaker of Bangladesh Parliament Dr. Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury, MP today met the Speaker of Sri Lanka Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena and also paid a courtesy call on the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Dinesh Gunawardena. In the meeting with Sri Lankan Speaker at the Parliament, both the Speakers highlighted the responsibilities and contribution of their respective Parliaments to democracy. They exchanged views on parliamentary practices and discussed ways and means to enhance cooperation between the two Parliaments. In this regard, they agreed to reinstate the Parliamentary Friendship Association between the two Parliaments. They also spoke about enhancing bilateral sectoral cooperation. The Bangladesh Speaker shared the development journey of Bangladesh. She also invited her Sri Lankan counterpart to visit Bangladesh. Secretary General of the Sri Lankan Parliament Kushani Anusha Rohanadeera was present in the meeting. [Image supplied by Bangladesh High Commission in Sri Lanka ] Later, the Speaker called on the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Dinesh Gunawardena at the Temple Tree. Expressing satisfaction about the existing bilateral relation between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, the Prime Minister recalled Bangladeshs assistance to Sri Lanka and highlighted the close cooperation between the two countries in multilateral forums like United Nations, Commonwealth, SAARC, BIMSTEC, and IORA. The two leaders discussed about bilateral cooperation in emerging sectors like climate change, maritime connectivity, cruise tourism and ICT alongside existing sectoral collaboration in trade, shipping, tourism, investment, education, tourism and culture. The Bangladesh Speaker expressed happiness about Sri Lankas ongoing economic recovery and assured of Bangladeshs support in this regard. She shared the success story of Bangladesh under the pragmatic leadership of Honble Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Bangladesh Speaker also mentioned about the 100 Special Economic Zones (SEZs) where Bangladesh is facilitating foreign investment, that Sri Lanka could take advantage of. The Sri Lankan Prime Minister was assisted by Acting Foreign Minister Tharaka Balasuriya and Secretary to the Prime Minister Mr. Anura Dissanayake. The Bangladesh Speaker was accompanied to the meetings by Bangladesh High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Tareq Md Ariful Islam, Counsellor Reyad Hossain and APS Rashed Iqbal Chowdhury. A father and daughter were in a relationship for four years and 'walked around hand-in-hand', locals have revealed after the bodies of three newborn babies were found rotting in the basement of their house. Piotr Gierasik, 54, and Paulina Gierasik, 20, are facing life in prison for murder and incest after the babies' remains were discovered in shallow graves and wrapped in plastic bags at the property in the village of Czerniki, in northern Poland. Colleagues of Paulina at a cake shop in the neighbouring village of Stara Kiszewa have now told how her father 'shaved her head so that other boys wouldn't look at her' and that she looked up to him 'as if he were God'. The father and daughter - who are said to have 'lived like a couple' - were each charged with multiple counts of murder and each of incest. It comes after the first two babies were found on Friday but further investigations revealed a third body in an 'advanced state of decomposition' on Saturday. Two of the infants belonged to Paulina, investigators said, and the mother of the third is her sister. Paulina Gierasik, 20 (pictured), was arrested along with her father Piotr after the babies' remains were discovered in shallow graves and wrapped in plastic bags at the property in the village of Czerniki The house where the remains of three newborns were found is seen in this general view Paulina's colleagues said they became suspicious that she was pregnant after she started to wear large, loose-fitting clothes. She then took three weeks off work but returned a week later. One fellow shop worker told the Super Express newspaper: 'We all guessed she was pregnant, I think she had tied belts around herself like a sort of corset. 'When she returned early from her holiday the change was visible. She was much thinner, weaker, and constantly tired. 'When we asked about the child, she feigned surprise and denied it.' Another local told Fakt newspaper: 'They lived like a couple. She called him Piotr, by his first name. They walked around hand in hand. 'A few months ago, he shaved her head so that other boys wouldn't look at her. 'She looked up to him as if he were God.' Addressing the arrests earlier, Mariusz Duszynski from the District Prosecutor's Office in Gdansk said: 'The woman has been charged with two counts of murder and a charge of having an incestuous relationship with her father. 'The man was charged with three counts of murder, a charge of incest with his 20-year-old daughter, and a charge of having incestuous relations with another daughter.' According to prosecutors, two of the murdered children came from his relationship with the 20-year-old who they say was in a consensual relationship with her father. The third baby was from a relationship he had with another daughter after forcing her into sex. The prosecutors added that they suspected him of killing the third baby. The grim discoveries came after police received a tip-off from social services. One of Paulina's work colleagues is reported to have alerted social services after seeing a 'disturbing' text message the 20-year-old had sent to her father. Police found the three infant bodies in the basement of the house, each in various states of decomposition. The ground was covered in dirt and there was no solid floor where they were burred. Moving to the village around 15 years ago, Piotr was left to bring up his children after his wife died. Police work at the site where the bodies of three newborns were discovered in the basement of a house in Czerniki, municipality of Stara Kiszewa in Kashubia, northern Poland, September 16, 2023 Police are continuing to search the property to see if any more bodies are hidden in the house One local told the Super Express newspaper: 'The father was left alone with the children. 'There are a lot of them, ten or twelve, the oldest ones have already left. 'Piotr made a good impression. The yard is neglected, but he installed new windows in the house. 'There was no sign of him drinking. He took the kids for walks or to the forest to pick mushrooms. 'Just ordinary people. Who would have thought that such abominations existed in their home.' But other locals told Fakt that while he 'seemed calm' he 'had the devil under his skin'. It comes as the small town of Czerniki - with a population of less than 180, located 50km from Gdansk - has been accused of holding a 'conspiracy of silence' over the allegedly known relationship between the father and daughter. Locals said they 'always suspected something was wrong' with the family. One neighbour said: 'We often heard him shouting at the children. His verbal abuse was shocking. Sometimes we'd hear one of girls screaming. 'What people say now is that he used to go for walks with them. Maybe he did, but the whole village knew that something like this was happening. 'It's a tiny village, so everyone knew about these things. 'Around ten years ago, the police were told that he was sleeping with one of his daughters. But after they investigated they couldn't find any concrete evidence. 'The older daughter, who we suspected he had slept with was so scared she refused to say anything. 'He [the father] has such a personality that everyone in this village was afraid of him. That's why this case didn't appear for so long'. 'She later moved away, as did many of his other children. There were about twelve of them.' Police work at the site where the bodies of three newborns were discovered in the basement of a house in Czerniki, municipality of Stara Kiszewa in Kashubia, northern Poland A neighbour of the older daughter told Super Express: 'She now lives in our village. 'She has a decent husband. As far as I remember, everyone said that she ran away from that father. 'If I were her husband, I would kill that monster. If someone hurt my wife like that, I would kill him too. Police have so far discovered the remains of three babies buried in the family's house. Unconfirmed reports say that one of the bodies wrapped in a black plastic bin liner was about three weeks old at the time of death. Katarzyna Matyszczak, the manager of the confectionery shop where Paulina worked, said: 'Everyone was gossiping about it. 'His youngest daughter Paulina is a beautiful girl. Everyone said she was pregnant. So I asked about it directly. 'She denied it. One of her friends didn't believe it. I won't say who, but she was the one who informed the relevant services about the whole matter, because she suspected that she had given birth to a child.' Prosecutors are now waiting for an autopsy to determine how the three babies died. Meanwhile, police are continuing to search the property to see if any more bodies are hidden in the house. Both the father and daughter are currently in detention as the investigation continues. Thomas Markle has spoken out again in an interview in an effort to see his grandchildren for the first time. Meghan's father, 79, appeared on Good Morning Britain today in an exclusive interview on his daughter and Prince Harry. Mr Markle begged Meghan to let him see his grandchildren, adding that he has not seen her for five years since he was lying in a hospital bed. 'I'm heartbroken. I am very upset. This is a cruel thing to do to a grandparent - to deny the right to see a grandchild,' he said. 'In California I can actually sue to see them but I don't want to do that. The other thing is I've done nothing wrong. There's nothing that points to say I'm a bad guy. Thomas Markle (pictured) has spoken out again in an interview in an effort to see his grandchildren for the first time Thomas Markle appeared on GMB this morning to speak about his daughter Meghan on air Meghan's father, 79, appeared on Good Morning Britain in an exclusive interview on his daughter and Prince Harry 'I'm a really loving father and she knows that, and there's no excuse for treating me this way - no excuse to treat grandparents that way.' Speaking about how Meghan used to be, Mr Markle said: 'Meghan lived with me from sixth grade to high school and I never saw anything like that. 'I never saw the kind of woman she turned into. I am shocked. 'She is not the person I knew as my daughter.' When asked whether he thought Harry was to blame, Mr Markle said: 'I think she has an influence on Harry more than he does on her. 'I am always here for her, I still love her - I'll love her forever. That will never change but I want her to reach out to me and let me see my grandkids and let me have a little peace. 'People go to prison for five years and they're forgiven - I didn't do anything. So forgive me I guess.' He added: 'I would always apologise for anything I've doe wrong. I'm sorry if I have.' Meghan's father compared himself to King Charles, saying both of them have been deprived of contact with their grandchildren. 'King Charles has done nothing wrong too and he is denied the kids as well as I am,' he said. Meghan Markle's father Thomas Snr (middle with son Tom Jr,right, and daughter Samantha, left), who stayed up all night to watch the ceremony on TV at his home in Rosarito, Mexico, told the Mail on Sunday he believed it was for the best that the Duchess stayed at home Prince Harry looks on at his brother Prince William in the front row during the coronation of their father King Charles III at Westminster Abbey Talking about his daughter, Mr Markle said: 'She has always been very sweet and talented. Very loving - she always was before - I don't know now.' In a very brief clip used to trail the sit-down interview, Mr Markle revealed he thinks that both of the Royal pair are to blame for the lack of contact. Mr Markle told them he longs to meet his grandchildren before he dies. He also said he did not think William and Harry would reunite. He said: 'I'm open to it any time but I don't see it coming. 'Hes not open to peaceful solutions I dont think. 'And I dont think either is Meghan. Unless both are onboard it's not going to happen.' Mr Markle last spoke out in May after Harry made a whistlestop visit to the UK for King Charles'scoronation. The 79-year-old, said he had stayed up all night to watch the ceremony on TV at his home in Rosarito, Mexico. He told the Mail on Sunday he believed it was for the best that the Duchess stayed at home. Prince Harry flashed a Hollywood-worthy smile at Heathrow as he prepared to jet back to California after an awkward appearance at his father's coronation He continued: There are too many disagreements between Meghan, Harry and the Royals. 'It was wonderful to watch the good people of Britain welcome their new King and Queen.' Prince Harry slipped out of Westminster Abbey - accompanied by a Metropolitan police escort and four outriders - with only the briefest of goodbyes and headed straight for Heathrow Airport. He rushed from the service to the airport in a blacked-out BMW accompanied by a Metropolitan police escort and four outriders, where he was taken to the VIP Windsor Suite. After just 28 hours and 42 minutes in the UK, he was back on the plane to California before his father and stepmother had even finished having their official portraits taken. And it appears Meghan too was keen to avoid the 'drama' of returning to the UK. Yesterday's rainy conditions saw two inches of rain fall in just a few hours Footage shows a house in Dorset catch fire after being struck by lightning Britain's mini heatwave has come crashing to a close as thunderstorms and torrential downpours swept in on the tail end of an Atlantic storm. Britain is being hit by the remnants of Hurricane Lee, which pounded the north-eastern US and Canada with 70mph winds at the weekend. Forecasters have warned of gale-force winds of 45mph or more from today until Thursday. Yellow weather warnings are in place tomorrow and Wednesday, after more than a month's rain fell in 24 hours yesterday - bringing the country's record-breaking heatwave to a halt. The Met Office has predicted 'a band of cloud and heavy rain' which will move in from the west this evening. After temperatures hit 28C (82F) in central London on Saturday, forecasters say we have now seen the 'last breath' of summer and are facing a fortnight of topsy-turvy weather. Today a massive clean-up operation is under way after monsoon-like conditions saw two inches of rain fall in just a few hours across the South-West yesterday, causing flash flooding. Exeter Airport was forced to close with all flights cancelled, while motorists were trapped in their cars in nearby Dawlish. Other areas of Devon suffered power cuts amid lightning strikes, while landslides closed roads including the M5 for a short time. Warnings were last night in place for potential flooding of homes in Dawlish, Sampford Mill and Kingsbridge. Shocking footage shows a house in Corfe Mullen, Dorset, being struck by lightning in the early hours of this morning before the property becomes engulfed in flames. There was 'a loud explosion' and a flash of white light as the 400,000 home suffered a direct hit to the tiled roof. Shocking footage shows a house (pictured) in Corfe Fullen, Dorset, being struck by lightning in the early hours of this morning before the property becomes engulfed in flames There was 'a loud explosion' and a flash of white light as the 400,000 home suffered a direct hit to the tiled roof The Devon town of Dawlish (pictured) was hit with extreme floods yesterday following heavy rain Motorists in Dawlish, Devon, were left trapped in their cars due to the floods One Totnes family had their home hit by lightning, which fried the electrics and collapsed the ceiling The property was targeted at around 1.44am this morning as the first wave of thunderstorms swept through the region Britain is being hit by the remnants of Hurricane Lee, which pounded the north-eastern US and Canada with 70mph winds at the weekend. Forecasters have warned of gale-force winds of 45mph or more, particularly for western coasts, from today until Thursday A woman in Dawlish walks through the mud holding a suitcase after the floods Kenton Hair Salon (pictured) is flooded, leaving water and dirt covering the floor Kenton Hair Salon is pictured today after being flooded due to the bad weather Megan Farrent, 28, (pictured) stands in Kenton Hair Salon after it was flooded during the period of bad weather Thirty firefighters rushed to the residential area in Corfe Mullen, near Poole, Dorset, at 12.10am today to tackle the blaze which spread to an adjoining home. The lone female occupants of the two properties, one a young woman and the other middle aged, were awoken by the strike during last night's thunderstorms. Six crews battled for two and a half hours to put out the inferno. They remained at the scene for another three hours as a precaution. Neighbour Warren Windebank, 47, a graphic designer, said: 'I saw the roof was on fire and did not know if anyone was inside. 'The door was open so I looked inside but tiles started to fall off the roof and it looked like it was about to collapse so I got out of there.' Another neighbour said: 'I was in my lounge and heard a massive explosion sound, which caused me to panic. 'I rushed outside but there was no sign of a fire, so I went back in my flat. But five minutes later I saw black smoke so I looked out of the window and saw the house on fire. 'I went outside and saw the front door to the home was open so I shouted 'is anyone in there', and a woman said she had come out.' Up to three inches of rain could fall in the wettest places, most likely to be over the hills and moors of Snowdonia, Cumbria and the Pennines. The average rainfall for the whole of September is 4.4 inches. Londoners who were kept awake by the storm took to social media this morning to report more 'flood rain' after thunder and flashes of lightning raged over parts of the country last night. Firefighters scrambled to the scene of another house in Totnes, Devon, this morning which was struck by lightning as a ceiling collapsed and electrics were wrecked. The property was targeted at around 1.44am as the first wave of thunderstorms swept through the region. The Met Office warns the country will be hit by more rain throughout today Met Office graphics paint a bleak picture across the UK this week Temperatures will be significantly cooler this week - in stark contrast to last week's heatwave Dawlish has been left muddy after the town fell underwater due to severe floods Severe floods have hit Dawlish with parts of the town going underwater following heavy rainfall Sandbags are seen outside shops after the floods in Dawlish, Devon Buckfastleigh fire station has been heavily impacted by the floods Britain is being hit by the remnants of Hurricane Lee, which pounded north-eastern US and Canada with 70mph winds at the weekend. Pictured: Buckfastleigh Fire Station Buildings are evacuated and furniture is removed in Kenton, Devon after properties were flooded Kenton, Devon (pictured) has been hit by floods which have caused devastation across the village Two people brave the rain in Bolton today, using a coat as an umbrella to protect themselves A woman's umbrella breaks in Manchester today as heavy rain continues across parts of the country A lightning bolt strikes the sea near Bournemouth Pier in Dorset as a thunderstorm passes over in the early hours of this morning A lightning bolt hits the sea at Portland Bill in Dorset early this morning Fire crews attending the incident said the occupant of the house was unhurt and had sought refuge with neighbours. A spokesman for the Buckfastleigh Fire Station said: 'This morning at 1.44am we were called along with Ashburton Fire Station to reports of a house struck by lightning in Totnes. 'The crews used two breathing apparatuses to check the upstairs of the property due to a strong smell of burning. It was evident a large surge had gone through the house and plug sockets had blown off of the wall, light switches where affected and a lamp was shattered.' The firefighters said they were about to leave the Totnes property after making sure there was no further risk of fire, when they were called out to another home nearby which had been flooded overnight. The spokesman said: 'We had difficulty in reaching the property due to localised flooding so two firefighters donned water safety PPE and waded to the house to support the occupant. We utilised small tools, buckets and shovels to remove the majority of the water. 'We then installed the occupants [a] flood defence barrier to prevent further flooding from the rain that is forecast today.' Meanwhile ambulances were trapped in their station in West Sussex when power to the electric doors failed as flying debris trashed vehicles and homes. Becki Martin said she had never seen anything like it as cars and homes were damaged along her street. The 32-year-old administrator from Littlehampton said cars and even vans were moved by the wind. 'We were all watching the storm out of the lounge window when suddenly the wind picked up incredibly fast.' Brits are facing rush-hour travel chaos after thunderstorms and torrential downpours flooded roads overnight. Pictured: Flooded roads in south-east London A lightning strike sweeps across the sky this morning in Petersfield, Hampshire The floods have prompted the closure of Park Community Academy school on Whitegate Drive in Blackpool The met office issues yellow weather warning as Thunderstorms and torrential downpours hit Southampton People took to Twitter to complain and joke about the British weather today A lightning over buildings during a thunderstorm in Greenwich, south-east London Footage posted on Twitter last night showed thunder and lightning over Bournemouth, Dorset A neighbour in Cherry Croft was cut on the leg by flying glass, Ms Martin said. Heavy rain and a spectacular display of lightning were reported across the Sussex coast. Ambulances in Worthing were trapped when a power cut stopped the electric doors from opening. A spokesman said: 'Power is now back on but yes, Worthing Ambulance Station was affected by the local outage.' Meanwhile walls of water six feet high flooded some villages like Kenton near Exeter as the torrential rain came off hills and swamped the centre. Homes, restaurants, pubs and cinemas were among properties affected by floodwater. Betty Baldwin, a 95 year old lady, said she thought she was going to drown early on Sunday morning as her house was devastated by the floods. Around 50 villagers in Harberton, Devon, went to her aid as the ground floor of her house was more than two feet under water. Neighbour Jonathan Bean raced out to help her at 3am after spotting torchlight in her bedroom after her power was cut as she screamed: 'I can't get out. I'm just so frightened.' Mr Bean climbed in through a window to get to Betty and comfort her in her distressed state. Betty, who will be 96 in two weeks, is now staying with friends in the village. Kenton school was forced to shut as it was also affected by the floodwater, with pupils being taught online at home. Insane lightning over London with no rain pic.twitter.com/VErTkoHRsj The Ginger Prince (@dale946) September 17, 2023 The floods also prompted the closure of Park Community Academy school in Blackpool this morning. Reporting the closure on Twitter, the school wrote: 'Unfortunately PCA has flooded this morning. We are awaiting the arrival of the electricians to ensure the buildings are safe. Please do not send your child into school until further notice.' 'Unsettled' and 'autumnal' weather is predicted later this week with more heavy periods of rain on the way. One person wrote on Twitter this morning: 'Could have sworn the weather forecast for this morning was ''a clear start to the day''. Nope flood rain! #weather.' Another wrote: 'Wish I was born in the Maldives... hate UK weather!' The Met Office last night warned of a 'danger to life' from fast-flowing floodwater shortly after temperatures hit a stunning 28C (82F) in London on Saturday. Yesterday's conditions saw more than four inches of rain fall in just a few hours across Devon and Somerset, causing flash flooding. The average September rainfall for Devon is 87 mm (3.4ins), and for Somerset is 71 mm (2.8ins). The Met Office's Jonathan Vautrey said: 'Some places could have potentially 70 per cent of the average September rain over the course of a few days as the weather system marches through. 'The 28C we saw in London on Saturday is the last breath of summer. Generally, from here on temperatures are likely to be closer to the average for the time of year. Thunderbolts and lightening, very very frightening in Brighton. @MetWatchUK pic.twitter.com/izI8RkiNsV Harry Corton (@harrycorton) September 17, 2023 In the early hours of yesterday, lightning struck a house in Totnes, which caused an upstairs ceiling to collapse Pictured is a road in Dawlish, Devon, that was flooded following torrential rain 'The thunder is occurring along a cold front which is then due to open the door to Atlantic weather brought along by the jet stream.' However, forecasters said the storm clouds could have a silver lining with hopes there will be another Indian summer at the start of October. The Met Office said: 'There is an increased chance of more settled conditions developing. 'Overall, temperatures are more likely to be above average than below, with an increased chance of some warm spells, but also some cooler nights.' Roads resembled rivers yesterday as part of Dawlish town centre was underwater and Exeter Airport had to be closed after areas of the terminal building were inundated by flooding. Warnings were last night in place for potential flooding of homes in Dawlish, Sampford Mill and Kingsbridge, all in Devon. Yesterday afternoon, residents in Paignton battled to stop the rising water entering their homes and power cuts affected several hundred homes across south Devon. In the early hours of yesterday, lightning struck a house in Totnes, which caused an upstairs ceiling to collapse. Pictured is an area in Dawlish, Devon, hit by severe flooding Crews arriving at the scene at 2am found the occupant had only minor injuries - but the huge surge of electricity had blown plug sockets off the wall and shattered a lamp. In all, flooding and landslides affected 11 roads across Devon including the M5 which had to be temporarily closed for a short time. There was also flash flooding affecting roads in Somerset, including Taunton town centre. By late afternoon, officially the wettest place was Harberton Farm, near Totnes, which recorded 84mm (3.3ins). But the Met Office said some private rain gauges had recorded over 100mm (4ins) of rain and totals for yesterday were expected to end up at 70-90mm (2..8 - 3.6ins) in areas of Devon and Somerset. The Met Office added there have been approximately 1500-2000 lightning strikes across the UK today, most of which have been in southern counties of England, and some of these where over the English Channel. Jonathan Vautrey, a meteorologist with the Met Office, said: 'Some places could have potentially 70 per cent of the average September rain over the course of a few days as the weather system marches through.' Mr Vautrey said the worst of the weather is likely to be in the West, with spells of wet and windy conditions. He said: 'The 28C we saw in London on Saturday is the last breath of summer.. Generally, from here on temperatures are likely to be closer to the average for the time of year. Exeter Airport was forced to close after torrential rain flooded the terminal 'The thunder is occurring along a cold front which is then due to open the door to Atlantic weather brought along by the jet stream. 'Arriving midweek on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday are the remnants of Hurricane Lee, which by then will have settled into a more typical Atlantic weather system. 'Under the cloud and rain it is likely to be feeling relatively cool.' Temperatures in south-east England could still reach 21C (70F) today and hover at 19-20C (66-68F) for the coming days but fall back to 16C (61F) by Friday. Further north and west, highs of 17-18C (63-66F) are possible for the first half of the week before falling back to 15-16C (59-61F). Mr Vautrey said gales are likely as ex-Hurricane Lee moves through - 'predominantly on the western coasts but potentially eastern coasts could see gales developing into the afternoon'. He added that away from high ground in the north and west, rainfall as ex-Hurricane Lee blows through is likely to be lower, at around 10-20mm (0.4-0.8ins). On Friday, into next weekend and the following week, sunshine and showers are due to dominate, 'with the possibility of heavy and localised thundery downpours' and longer spells of rain in western and northern areas. It is also due to be windy at times, 'with the potential for a spell of very strong winds' at times. But forecasters remain hopeful there could be a further Indian summer spell at the beginning of October. The Met Office said: 'There is an increased chance of more settled conditions developing, but this doesn't rule out spells of more changeable weather. 'Overall, temperatures are more likely to be above average than below, with an increased chance of some warm spells, but also some cooler nights.' Videos showed passengers standing in the flooded terminal in Devon yesterday with water up to their ankles as it was announced that all flights to and from Exeter Airport would be cancelled for the rest of the day. Chaotic scenes at Exeter Airport pic.twitter.com/7rT2jOeiqI Justin Sharp (@JustinS04138161) September 17, 2023 The weather forecaster said 30-40mm of rain fell over just one hour - in a downpour that would see volumes of rain equivalent to over half the September average of 55-60mm. This meant more than 100mm of rain may have fallen by the end of Sunday in an area where the September average is 92.45mm. The UK's official forecaster warned of lightning, hail, and strong winds that would lash many parts of England and Wales last night. An amber weather warning for thunderstorms across parts of Devon and Somerset is still in place while a yellow warning covers the rest of the south-west of England and South Wales until 6pm. A similar warning was issued for London, the south-east and east of England and the East Midlands until 6am on Monday. Areas affected by the amber warning are likely to be flooded and people should expect some disruption to travel. There is a 'slight chance' of power cuts or that other services to homes and businesses could be lost, while some communities could also be cut off by floodwater. The Met Office said buildings could also be damaged by lightning, hail or strong winds. People planning to travel face the prospect of delays or sudden cancellations to trains and buses. Roads may be closed at short notice due to spray and sudden floods and 'difficult driving conditions' are expected on those that remain open. Met Office meteorologist Jonathan Vautrey said 'there is a chance these thunderstorms turn severe' and bring 'gusty winds with quite significant torrential rain'. They will move relatively quickly, making it difficult to pin down where exactly will be worst affected, Mr Vautrey said. He added: 'It is certainly worth keeping up to date with the forecast. 'Although the warning area covers the whole south east of England, not everywhere in that region may see the most severe thunderstorms. 'It is worth checking those things immediately before you head out on your journey so that you are aware where the most severe thunderstorms are possible. 'Make sure you are taking care as the weather could change at very short lead times, and just be prepared for those gusty winds and potentially large hailstorms.' Conditions are expected to remain 'blustery at times' early next week but are likely to be fresher. More storms are possible as the remnants of Hurricane Lee, which hit New England in the US and eastern Canada, is set to move across the UK between Tuesday and Thursday. It will no longer be a hurricane by the time it reaches UK shores. Mr Vautrey said: 'That will be getting picked up by the jet stream. Showers in places could be heavy with a risk of further thunderstorms. 'It could be quite an unsettled, autumnal week to come.' Tomorrow will see further wet and windy weather, with northern England seeing the heaviest rain. On Tuesday and Wednesday the weather will remain wet but some areas in the south will see drier spells. Cloud will be heavy for most. READ MORE: Two women stabbed at university in Canberra A man has been arrested & is being questioned by police Woman's body found at a home in Melton South, Victoria A major police operation is underway after a woman was stabbed to death at a home. Emergency services were called to a house on Sutherland Avenue at Melton South in Melbourne's west at about 1:30pm on Monday. A woman's body was discovered inside the property. A man has been arrested and is being questioned by police. Residents said they heard a loud argument and a woman's screams before officers arrived at the scene, reports 7News. A major police operation is underway after a woman's body was discovered inside a home in Melbourne's western suburbs (pictured, police at the crime scene) Neighbours said they heard an argument and a woman's screams at the property before police arrived One neighbour said they saw a man running down the street with blood covering his body and clothes. 'I saw blood dripping off his hands - a lot of blood - on his legs,' the witness told 9News. 'It dripped all over my driveway as well, all over my car.' Ambulance Victoria confirmed that paramedics were also at the scene. A crime scene has been established at the property. Sutherland Avenue and nearby roads have been cordoned off as police investigate. The woman's age is not yet known. The 16-year-old girl who has accused Russell Brand of sexually assaulting her when he was 31 today put the BBC at the heart of the scandal after claiming the star's Radio 2 chauffeur picked her up from school. The woman, now 33, and known as Alice to protect her identity, claimed Brand nicknamed her 'The Child', also believes the same BBC car took her from the comedian turned wellness guru's flat to her grandmother's house. The BBC, Channel 4 and Banijay UK, the production company who ran the Big Brother spin-offs he presented, have all launched investigations into whether they aided his alleged attacks - or ignored complaints. Alice said: 'The first time I used it, he told me it was booked to take him to his radio show but he had a friend taking him instead so I should use that car.' She said that a BBC driver also 'took me to my grandma's house one day from Russell's house. And then when the car picked me up from school, it was the same car . . . I knew that that was a BBC car'. It came as a woman who claims Brand raped her against a wall in LA said she was 'triggered' into trauma after she saw him dressed as Willy Wonka on top of a psychedelic bus, performing a Beatles song, at the London 2012's closing ceremony in the weeks after the alleged attack. Brand vehemently denies any wrongdoing and has said all of his sexual relationships have been consensual. A woman who claims Brand raped her against a wall in LA said she was 'triggered' into trauma after she saw him dressed as Willy Wonka on top of a psychedelic bus, performing a Beatles song, at the London 2012's closing ceremony (pictured) Alice (pictured) alleges that Russell Brand sexually assaulted her when she was 16 years old. She claims he would send a car to pick her up secondary school lessons, which she has since claimed was a 'BBC car' According to notes taken by The Times and Sunday Times, the woman, known as Nadia, said Brand was 'doing the closing ceremony at the Olympics' and 'unfortunately it came on the TV . . . [she] stated that she becomes very angry when the public is adoring him, wanting to shout out that he is a rapist'. She said she was 'triggered' by seeing the assailant and 'constant reminders of the assailant with songs on the radio his ex-wife wrote for him and about him'. This afternoon, the Metropolitan Police said the force had received a report of a sexual assault that took place in Soho in 2003, following The Sunday Times and Channel 4's Dispatches reporting into Russell Brand's alleged sexual offences. After Russell Brand was hit with accusations of rape and sexual assault, more women have come forward with allegations about how he has treated them, it has emerged. The Times and Sunday Times claim more women have come forward with undisclosed allegations about Brand's behaviour during the early 2000s in wake of their joint investigation with Channel 4 which was published on Saturday. The latest allegations - which the newspaper says have not been investigated, but will now be 'rigorously checked' - follow accusations from four women, including one who claims she was sexually assaulted by Brand during a three-month relationship with him when she was 16 and still at school. The BBC is now also facing 'urgent questions' after it was claimed that Brand, 48, used his company-provided car service to pick the girl up from school. It comes as both BBC and Channel 4 have launched internal investigations into separate accusations of predatory behaviour by Brand towards staff and audience members during the time of his employment. Channel 4 has since removed all programmes linked to Brand from its website, including episodes of The Great British Bake Off and Big Brother's Big Mouth in which he was featured, The Daily Telegraph reported. Netflix has since been urged to remove his comedy special, titled Re:Birth, from its streaming catalogue. The maverick actor and stand-up comic has strenuously denied any wrongdoing and blamed the 'mainstream media' for the 'litany of astonishing rather baroque attacks'. Russell Brand is alleged to have asked staff on the Big Brother shows he was hosting to ask female audience members for their numbers. Pictured: Russell Brand hosting Big Brother's Little Brother in May 2006 Former staffers on the show claimed they felt Brand had got them to 'act like pimps' with his requests. Pictured: Brand on Celebrity Great British Bake Off Russell Brand pictured with his wife Laura Gallacher The comedian released a video last week refuting all the allegations against him. Pictured: Brand leaving the Troubabour Wembley Park theatre after a gig on Saturday night BBC chiefs said they would investigate Brand last night after the comedian was accused of rape. Their probe was announced minutes before Scotland Yard piled on the pressure by announcing that detectives would like to speak to the comedian's alleged victims. Brand, a former star of the BBC and Channel 4, faces bombshell claims from women alleging sexual assaults, abuse and predatory behaviour including one who was a 16-year-old schoolgirl. EXECUTIVES WITH QUESTIONS TO ANSWER THE RADIO BOSS Radio 2 controller Lesley Douglas gave Russell Brand his own BBC show, firstly at the digital station 6 Music then in a short space of time at Radio 2 itself. She was regarded as the presenter's biggest champion at the corporation. But it was because of Brand and Jonathan Ross that she was forced to resign in 2008 after the pair left a series of lewd phone messages to Fawlty Towers star Andrew Sachs claiming Brand had had sex with his granddaughter. Among the latest allegations against Brand are that Ms Douglas had received complaints about his behaviour, but that nothing resulted. After leaving the BBC, Ms Douglas joined Universal Music. She is now thought to be running her own production company. The Mail was unable to contact her, but a statement on Dispatches read: 'Ms Douglas did not at any time encourage, enable, and/or fail herself to take any adequate steps within her power with regard to the conduct of Mr Brand of which she was aware.' THE AGENT BRAND'S agent John Noel is the man who turned him into a huge star. Representing him at his company John Noel Management from 2002 to 2017, he appeared to be willing to go the extra mile to dig his client out of any crises, support which helped Brand land a plum role presenting E4's Big Brother spin-off show Big Brother's Big Mouth in 2004. Noel's son Nik Linnen was even best man at Brand's wedding to Katy Perry. The Mail has contacted Noel. A company spokesman said they were unable to respond to the allegations for legal reasons. THE TV EXECUTIVE Sir Peter Bazalgette the man who brought Big Brother to our screens was a senior executive at the show's production company Endemol at the time some of Brand's alleged actions were said to have taken place. While Sir Peter is not thought to have had any direct role in producing the shows, there have been questions about how much Endemol managers knew about Brand. Endemol said that it has no record about these issues being 'formally raised'. Sir Peter has been contacted for comment. Advertisement But the claims from one businesswoman who alleged Brand raped her when she refused a threesome and another who said she was 16 when he choked her during a sexual act, prompted a firestorm yesterday. Among the complaints raised in the investigation were allegations by a woman, referred to as Alice to protect her identity, who claims she was sexually assaulted by Brand as a 16-year-old. She alleges he took her virginity, was 'preoccupied' with her being 'innocent and pure', and often referred to her as 'The Child'. Alice described his behaviour towards her as 'grooming' as Brand would allegedly provide her with scripts on how to deceive her parents into allowing her to visit him. She also claimed he would send his 'BBC car' to her secondary school to pick her up. 'The first time I used it, he told me it was booked to take him to his radio show but he had a friend taking him instead so I should use that car,' she told The Times. She claimed the chauffeur once took her from Brand's home to her grandmother's house and that on a separate occasion the same car 'picked me up from school'. Alice added: 'It was the same car...I knew that that was a BBC car.' The BBC did not initially commit to an inquiry but amid the growing outcry, it shifted its position last night and a spokesman said it was 'urgently looking into the issues'. In a statement, a BBC spokesman said: 'The documentary and associated reports contained serious allegations, spanning a number of years. 'Russell Brand worked on BBC radio programmes between 2006 and 2008 and we are urgently looking into the issues raised.' The broadcaster yesterday launched an internal investigation into what was known about Brand's alleged behaviour following claims that at least one senior executive was aware of complaints against the comedian and seemingly dismissed them. Banijay UK, which produced Big Brother's EForum and Big Brother's Big Mouth in the early 2000s, revealed it had also 'launched an urgent investigation' into the 'very serious' allegations from former staff who worked alongside Brand when he hosted the programmes between 2004 and 2006. The ex-staffers have claimed that Brand got them to 'act like pimps' by getting the numbers of women in the audience and passing notes to them from the presenter. Channel 4 has also said it is conducting its own internal investigation following allegations of predatory behaviour against Brand. They said: 'We have asked the production company who produced the programmes for Channel 4 to investigate these allegations and report their findings properly and satisfactorily to us. 'Channel 4 is also conducting its own internal investigation, and we would encourage anyone who is aware of such behaviour to contact us directly.' The statement added: 'We will be writing to all our current suppliers reminding them of their responsibilities under our Code of Conduct, as we are committed to ensuring our industry has safe, inclusive and professional working environments.' The network also confirmed to the Telegraph that it has 'taken down all content featuring Russell Brand while we look into the matter'. MailOnline has approached the BBC, Channel 4 and Netflix for comment. Screen grab taken from Channel 4 Dispatches trailer of Nadia - or an actress playing Nadia - speaking about her harrowing experience The Metropolitan Police have begun enquiries into allegations of sexual assault published in The Sunday Times and on Channel 4's Dispatches. The show saw multiple women accusing him of abusive and predatory behaviour, including rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse, between 2006 and 2013. Officers have spoken to The Sunday Times following the report and have now encouraged any potential victims to come forwards. At this time, the force has 'not received any reports in relation' to the allegations of sexual assault detailed in the article or documentary. READ MORE: Police urge victims to come forward as Russell Brand is accused of rape Advertisement But one alleged victim whose story was featured in the documentary says she is relieved that other women's allegations are being heard. The woman, referred to as Nadia in the investigation, told The Times last night: 'I'm super-proud of all the women who have come forward. I know how hard it is - thinking 'I'm the only one' and 'Who is going to believe me'. 'It was all very hard to read and to watch but I think it's very necessary - because he needs to be stopped.' Nadia, who claims Brand raped her in his Los Angeles home in 2012, added that he 'cannot hurt me any more' and said she hopes that he will 'not hurt anybody else'. Brand was dropped by a charity working to end violence against women in light of the accusations. However, he has received support from some public figures, with the likes of Elon Musk, Andrew Tate and Laurence Fox all appearing to back the comedian as he claimed to be the victim of a 'co-ordinated media attack'. Billionaire tech mogul Musk, self-proclaimed misogynist Tate and actor-turned-political activist Fox threw their weight behind Brand, fellow comedians such as Jo Caulfield, Sofie Hagen and Daniel Sloss appeared to turn their backs on him. Russell Brand pictured on Saturday evening leaving the Troubabour Wembley Park theatre in north-west London after performing a comedy set Two of the women in Channel 4's Dispatches which aired on Saturday night said they felt production companies had 'enabled' Brand's behaviour. Production runner, Rachel, 24, worked alongside Brand on Big Brother's EForum, later Big Mouth. Weeks after she started the role, Brand is said to have focused his attention on her. Rachel said: 'It's difficult to say when the line was crossed.' She added that producers often asked her to deliver unfavourable news to Brand to 'soften the blow'. She said the pair went on to have sex, which he told her was a breach of his contract. Rachel said: 'He made clear to me I couldn't tell anyone else on the crew because he had it written into his contract that he wasn't allowed to have any sexual contact with anyone working on Big Brother. 'It sounds slightly dramatic but with hindsight and now as an older woman I can say with clarity that, you know, I felt like I was groomed, for sex. 'Production companies enabled him to exist in these environments where he was able to take advantage of who he was.' Three staff who worked on Big Brother told Dispatches about Brand. One said: 'My role was to recruit audience members for the live show. We used to go out flyering out by the universities, find university students who would come be on the show.' Another said: 'Russell is pointing out audience members and asking the runner to get phone numbers.' A third said they would be handed paper sometimes telling which hotel Brand was in. The production staff said they received tearful phone calls the next day from those that had been to see the comedian. One said: 'It was like we were taking lambs into slaughter. We were basically acting like pimps to Russell Brand's needs.' A researcher claimed concerns about his behaviour while working on the shows were reported to production managers at Endemol, which was bought by Banijay UK in 2020. A statement from Banijay UK, which bought Endemol in 2020, said: 'In light of the very serious allegations raised by Dispatches and The Times/Sunday Times investigation relating to the alleged serious misconduct of Russell Brand while presenting shows produced by Endemol in 2004 and 2005, Banijay UK has launched an urgent internal investigation and will co-operate with any requests for information from broadcast partners and external agencies. 'We also encourage anybody who feels that they were affected by Brand's behaviour while working on these productions to contact us in confidence.' Banijay UK, which produced Big Brother's EForum and Big Brother's Big Mouth in the early 2000s, said it had 'launched an urgent investigation' into his alleged behaviour. Pictured: Russell Brand standing with Davina McCall during filming for Big Brother in 2005 Comedian Russell Brand was accused of rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse of four women following a bombshell investigation. Pictured: Brand leaving Troubadour Wembley Park theatre in north London following a live performance of his show In a statement, Channel 4 said: 'Channel 4 is appalled to learn of these deeply troubling allegations, including behaviour alleged to have taken place on programmes made for Channel 4 between 2004 and 2007. 'We are determined to understand the full nature of what went on. We have carried out extensive document searches and have found no evidence to suggest the alleged incidents were brought to the attention of Channel 4. We will continue to review this in light of any further information we receive, including the accounts of those affected individuals. 'We will be asking the production company who produced the programmes for Channel 4 to investigate these allegations and report their findings properly and satisfactorily to us. 'In the many years since the alleged incidents took place, there has obviously been extensive change in Channel 4's management and commissioning teams. Today, Channel 4 has a zero-tolerance approach to unacceptable behaviour and has a robust Code of Conduct. We require all suppliers to have in place rigorous safeguarding policies and provide whistle-blowing support, including Channel 4's Speak Up facility. 'We are committed to ensuring our industry has safe, inclusive and professional working environments.' Andrew Tate took to X, posting a cartoon meme of a knight preparing for battle, captioned: 'On my way to fight the crazy b***h allegations' In a separate Tweet responding to Brand's video he called the allegations made against the comedian a 'Matrix attack' Responding to the Tweet, tech mogul Elon Musk told Brand: 'Of course. They don't like competition' Smooth Radio presenter Kirsty Gallacher shared Brand's video on her Instagram story with a large red love heart, however, a few hours later and after the investigation was published in full at 4pm BST, the post vanished from her Instagram stories, suggesting she had deleted it While TV bosses investigate the claims made by Brand's accusers, the comic has received support online from the likes of Andrew Tate, Elon Musk, Laurence Fox and his sister-in-law Kirsty Gallacher. Appearing to support Brand, Tate said 'Welcome to the club Russell Brand' accompanied by a cartoon meme of a knight preparing for battle, captioned: 'On my way to fight the crazy b***h allegations'. Tate, who is currently facing charges of rape and human trafficking - which he has denied - in a separate Tweet responded to Brand's video calling it a 'Matrix attack'. Meanwhile, Tesla and X owner Musk, also appeared to back the under fire star's comments on the media. He said: 'Of course. They don't like competition.' In a video questioning the allegations against Brand, Fox said: 'It's fascinating to see some parts of the legacy media talking about Russell Brand like we are going to believe anything they say about anything. 'Whatever Russell Brand got up to, and I can guarantee it because I was around, everything he would have done, would have been sort of acceptable. 'Because otherwise his producers would have called him out and fired him. 'Now that may be an uncomfortable thing to deal with for people but that's how the world was then.' His sister-in-law, model and TV star Kirsty Gallacher, initially appeared to be in support of Brand, who is married to her younger sister Laura. She shared his video to her Instagram story with a huge red love heart - but just a few hours after the full investigation was published the post, which remains up for 24 hours, had disappeared. However, famous names from the British comedy circuit appeared to distance themselves from Brand. Mock of the Week presenter Jo Caulfield took to X this morning, writing: 'In whatever industry you work in, keep speaking out. 'Predatory behaviour and abuse is wrong.... It's a tragic and age old story and it has to stop.' Meanwhile, British comedian Sofie Hagen also spoke out against alleged lurid behaviour within the industry. She wrote: 'In my current show, I briefly talk about a comedian who was once preying on a 16 year old girl AND IT WASN'T EVEN RUSSELL BRAND. It was ANOTHER ONE. 'The internet is flooded with statistics and examples of what happens to victims who report sexual assault or people that speak out against predators, so if it bugs you that we all keep talking about unnamed predators, then know, it probably bugs us too that they're unnamed.' And comic Dom Joly wrote: 'The amount of people defending Russell Brand, slagging off the women involved and believing that this is all because Brand is some 'threat to the Matrix' is pure Trumpism and deeply, deeply depressing...' Following Channel 4's Dispatches investigation into the alleged abuse, Trevi - a charity that supports vulnerable women and children - have cut all ties with Brand On Brand's charity Stay Free, he lists several organisations he donates too. Trevi said it had cut ties with Brand, however,, the Treasures Foundation said it was not making a decision at this time Earlier yesterday Trevi, a women's charity that Brand has worked with for more than a year, said they had 'ended their association' with him. The organisation that helps vulnerable women and children said it had been 'deeply saddened and upset' by the alleged victim's stories adding its priority remains protecting the 'safety and well-being of all women and girls'. A photo of Brand still remains on the charity's homepage, however, along with an article about how he is raising funds for Trevi at his new live show Bipolarisation in Plymouth on Tuesday. In a statement posted to its Instagram just hours after the shocking documentary was released Trevi said: 'We are deeply saddened and upset by the stories reported on this evening's Channel 4 Dispatches programme regarding Russell Brand. 'Russell became aware of our charity in 2022 after hearing about some of the incredible mothers we have helped to become drug-free over the years. He wanted to support our cause and raise money through his Stay Free Foundation. 'Today's media revelations have been difficult to process but our priority remains and continues to be the safety and well-being of all women and girls now and in the future. 'We have ended our association with Russell Brand and the Stay Free Foundation. 'As a charity whose values put women's voices at the heart of what we do, we always prioritise supporting women affected by violence and abuse and empower them to live without violence and fear.' It added that it understood how the allegations could be triggering for some women and urged those who need support to contact The Survivor Pathway. In the investigations, one woman alleged Brand raped her against the wall in his Los Angeles home when she was in her 30s. Another whom he referred to as 'the child' told how the presenter targeted her when was 16 years old and still at school, and he was aged 30. The Met Police said it had been made 'aware' of media reports about 'a series of allegations of sexual assault' and urged any alleged victims to come forward. But in an extra-ordinary preemptive fightback, Brand took to social media ahead of the 90-minute Dispatches documentary to the social media to 'absolutely deny' a string of 'very serious criminal allegations'. The comedian is also a supporter of several other organisations, including the Friendly House - an organisation in Los Angeles that provides women seeking recovery from alcohol and other substance use. One of the charities Brand supports is the Friendly House in Los Angeles, California. He remains on their homepage and is set to host a lunch in October Brand is also a supporter of the BAC O'Connor Centre, which helps provide rehabilitation for recovering addicts The comedian's charity Stay Free, which helps those with addiction, also donates money to the Treasure Foundation. The foundation which helps women suffering from drug abuse in East London, however, told MailOnline that it would not be cutting any ties with the comedian at present, adding that the women it supports were the priority. It said that many of the people supported by the foundation have 'been through sexual trauma' and some have even 'been perpetrators', adding that part of the program includes practising forgiveness. A spokeswoman said: 'At Treasures Foundation we only know Russell Brand in the capacity of him wanting to make amends and give back to women, hence the desire of his to give to our charity. 'We are part of a program that practises forgiveness and making amends. Many of us have been through sexual trauma and some of us have been perpetrators. 'We need to take this time to process what is going on, we are talking to the women we support and will be issuing feedback from them, as as always the voice of the women we support is of the upmost importance. 'We cant make an opinion on what has come out right now. We just know him for the good that he does now.' The comedian, who has insisted that during his 'time of promiscuity the relationships I had were absolutely always consensual', also supports the BAC O'Connor Centre, in Staffordshire. The organisation helps rehabilitate those recovering from drug and alcohol addiction. A video of Brand, who is been open about his own struggles with addiction in the past, explaining why those suffering should choose the organisation. MailOnline has contacted Trevi, the Friendly House and BAC O'Connor. Just hours after the allegations first came to light, Brand took centre stage at Wembley Park Theatre in front of a crowd of 2,000 people. He told fans as he continued his tour: 'I really appreciate your support. I love you. 'I've got a lot to talk to you about. There are obviously some things I absolutely cannot talk about and I appreciate that you will understand.' The married father-of-two, whose wife Laura is expecting their third child, has also said that while he had been 'very, very promiscuous' in the past, the 'relationships I had were absolutely always consensual'. There was no sign of him yesterday at the family's 3million riverside home in Oxfordshire. It is not the first time Brand has been accused of inappropriate behaviour. Jordan Martin, a former girlfriend, claimed he had sexually assaulted her and 'made me brush my teeth so hard my gums bled so I would taste 'anonymous' to him'. North Korea's Kim Jong Un has made his way home after nearly a week in Russia on a defence-focused trip - but not before taking in a performing walrus show. Kim sat in the stands surrounded by his military uniform-clad officials to watch a giant walrus perform with its handler at the Primorsky Aquarium, Russia's largest, on Sunday. The brutal dictator appeared to be beaming with excitement in the newly released state media images. He was pictured applauding the animal as it clapped back at him. Kim also 'watched white dolphins and other sea animals performing acrobatic feats at the dolphinarium and looked round various places of the aquarium,' state media KCNA said. As the delegation made their way back to the impoverished North Korea, Kim expressed his 'heartfelt thanks' to fellow despot Vladimir Putin. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un (pictured in the stands centre right) sat with his military uniform-clad officials as they applaud a walrus at Primorsky Aquarium, Russia Kim Jong Un (left) is seen on a tour of the Maritime Territorial Aquarium in Vladivostok, Russia, on Sunday North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency released pictures of Kim Jong Un as he and his delegation toured Primorsky Aquarium, Russia, on Sunday North Korean leader Kim Jong Un (left) meets Russia's President Vladimir Putin in the Amur Oblast in the far East of Russia last week Kim's tour of Russia's far east, which began Tuesday, has fanned Western fears that isolated, nuclear-armed Pyongyang could provide Moscow with weapons for its war in Ukraine. During the trip this week, North Korea's leader inspected everything from Russian space rockets to submarines. It also included a symbolic exchange of rifles with Putin. Pyongyang's Korean Central News Agency on Monday said Kim 'extended his heartfelt thanks to President Putin and the Russian leadership' for 'their special care and cordial hospitality' as he wrapped up the visit. Kim is heading home 'after successfully completing the schedule of his official goodwill visit to the Russian Federation,' KCNA said. Kim's latest visit to Russia will 'shine long in history', the state media continued, and will further consolidate the two countries' 'militant unity' while 'opening up a new chapter' of their relations. He also wished 'Russia prosperity and its people well-being', the KCNA report added. While meeting Kim, Putin accepted an invitation to visit North Korea and offered to send one of its nationals to space, which would be a first. Kim is heading back to North Korea by bulletproof train, with KCNA saying the leader 'starts his way home after bringing about a new radical turn in the history of the development of the DPRK-Russia relations.' DPRK is the acronym for North Korea's official name. Kim was sat in the stands with his military uniform-clad officials to watch a giant walrus perform with its handler at the Primorsky Aquarium Kim and his military officials were led on a tour of the Primorsky Aquarium in Vladivostok on Sunday North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reviewing a guard of honor during a send-off ceremony at the end of his visit, in Vladivostok, Russia, Sunday North Korean leader Kim Jong Un receives a a guard of honor during a send-off ceremony on Sunday at the end of his visit North Korean leader Kim Jong Un salutes as he walks past a row of military soldiers giving him a guard of honor North Korea leader Kim Jong Un visits the Far Eastern Federal University in Russky Island, Vladivostok, Sunday Before departing from Vladivostok, the Pacific port city just over the border, Kim was presented with five explosive drones, a reconnaissance drone and a bulletproof vest as gifts from the governor of the Primorye region, which borders China and North Korea. North Korea and Russia, historic allies, are both under rafts of global sanctions - Moscow for its Ukraine invasion, Pyongyang for its nuclear weapon tests. During his visit, Kim said his country would make bilateral ties with Russia its 'number one priority', as he held a rare summit with Putin. China is currently North Korea's most crucial ally and benefactor. Russia is eager for North Korea's stockpile of artillery shells to be used in Ukraine, while Pyongyang is looking for help with satellite technology and upgrading its Soviet-era military equipment, experts say. Vladimir Putin, left, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un shake hands during their meeting at the Vostochny cosmodrome outside the city of Tsiolkovsky Putin and Kim look to the skies at the space centre in the far eastern Amur region in Russia on Wednesday Russian President Vladimir Putin (2nd-L) and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un (3d-R), accompanied by head of Russian state space corporation Roscosmos Yuri Borisov (L), visit the Vostochny cosmodrome Putin points into the air during a visit to the Vostochny Cosmodrome with Kim on Wednesday On Wednesday, Putin and Kim held talks at Russia's new Vostochny cosmodrome, roughly 5,000 miles (8,000 kilometres) from Moscow. After the meeting Putin talked up the prospect of greater cooperation with North Korea and the 'possibilities' for military ties. But the Kremlin has said no agreement has or will be signed. An investigator who presented 'non-human' bodies to Mexico's congress has insisted he did 'absolutely nothing illegal' as Peru has launched a criminal probe into how the alleged 'aliens' left the country. Journalist and UFO enthusiast Jaime Maussan unveiled two corpses alongside forensic scientists last week in what he described as a 'watershed' moment. He has suggested the mummified bodies - which he claims to be 1,000 years old - are one of the most important discoveries in human history. But most in the scientific community aren't so sure - suggesting that they are part of an already-debunked, perhaps criminal stunt. Maussan, 70, claims they were found around 2017 in Peru, near the pre-Columbian Nazca Lines - a mysterious set of ancient geoglyphs. But now Peruvian officials have furiously questioned how the specimens, which they insist are earthly objects, left the country and came into Maussan's possession. The pair of corpses, displayed in glass boxes, have elongated heads with three fingers on each hand - but are otherwise somewhat humanoid in shape UFO enthusiast Jaime Maussan said the mummified bodies are one of the most important discoveries in human history Mexican journalist and UFO enthusiast Jaime Maussan, claims the tiny bodies that he presented to Mexico's Congress earlier this week are not related to any known Earthly species Culture Minister Leslie Urteaga said they are looking into how the bodies, which she described as pre-Hispanic objects, left Peru and says a criminal complaint has been filed. Maussan has said in response: 'I'm not worried. I have done absolutely nothing illegal,' but said he could not answer how the bodies arrived in Mexico. When asked how the pair - whom he calls Clara and Mauricio - came to be in his possession, he replied only that he would reveal all 'at the appropriate time.' Maussan testified under oath before Mexican lawmakers on Tuesday that 'we are not alone' in the universe as he displayed the alleged remains of non-human beings. The pair of corpses, displayed in glass boxes, have elongated heads with three fingers on each hand - but otherwise somewhat humanoid in shape, including two arms and two legs. Their retractable neck and long skull show characteristics more 'typical of birds', El Pais reported. They were also found to have strong, light bones and no teeth, the presenters said. The tiny bodies on display in glass cases in Mexico. Peruvian officials have furiously questioned how the specimens, which they insist are earthly objects, left the country Experts in congress showed apparent X-rays of the specimens and said that one of the beings carried 'eggs' with embryos inside them. They said they had implants of cadmium and osmium metals, with osmium one of the most scarce elements in the Earth's crust and considered the rarest precious metal. Experts have since rebuked his claims, with Navy Lt Ryan Graves, who has participated in US Congressional hearings about Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP), criticising it as a 'huge step backwards' and 'unsubstantiated stunt'. Forensic scientist Dr Jose Zalce Benitez challenged scientists to take samples of the alleged alien bodies and conduct their own studies Elsa Tomasto-Cagigao, a respected Peruvian bio-anthropologist, has also revealed her frustration at the claims, citing similar alleged finds that were found to be frauds. 'What we said before still stands, they are presenting the same rehash as always and if there are people that keep believing that, what can we do?,' she said. 'It is so crass and so simple that there is nothing more to add.' Forensic scientist Dr Jose Zalce Benitez, who presented the findings alongside Maussan, challenged scientists to take samples of the alleged alien bodies and conduct their own studies before labelling it a hoax. 'Based on the DNA tests, which were compared with more than one million species... they are not related to what is known or described up to this moment by science or by human knowledge,' he told journalists. Julieta Fierro, a scientist at Mexico's National Autonomous University's (UNAM) Institute of Astronomy, reviewed his results said samples were related to brain and skin tissues from mummies who died at different times. Graves wrote after the hearing that he was 'disappointed by this unsubstantiated stunt' The results 'do not show anything mysterious that could indicate life compounds that do not exist on Earth,' Fierro said. At last week's conference, Maussan cited carbon dating by UNAM as showing that the bodies were more than 1,000 years old. UNAM on Thursday republished a statement first issued in 2017, saying the work by its National Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry with Accelerators (LEMA) was only intended to determine the age of the samples. 'In no case do we make conclusions about the origin of said samples,' it said. Ukraine's legal battle against Russia over allegations of genocide used by Moscow to justify its 2022 invasion resumes today at the United Nations' highest court. Hearings at the International Court of Justice, also known as the World Court, will see Ukraine supported by a record 32 other nations in a major show of support. Kyiv launched the case shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine, arguing that the invasion was based on false claims of genocide against ethnic Russians in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions of eastern Ukraine. Instead, Kyiv's lawyers will argue that Moscow had planned genocidal acts against Ukrainians and went on to execute them by launching an invasion and indiscriminately killing Ukrainian civilians. They want the court to order Russia to halt its invasion and pay reparations. It comes as Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky branded his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin a 'fully fledged Hitler' in an interview with CBS. Zelensky said Putin had become a 'fully fledged Hitler' and warned of World War Three if Russia could not be defeated in Ukraine A protester holds a caricature of Putin depicted with a combover and Hitler moustache A worker carries a cross during a burial ceremony for unidentified persons killed in the Bucha district at the time of the Russian occupation, at a cemetery in Bucha, northwest of Kyiv Zelensky urged the world to contemplate the consequences of a Russian victory in the war with Ukraine, which he said could bring about World War Three. And he blamed Russians for constantly re-electing Putin as president for almost a quarter of a century. 'Russian society has lost respect for the world,' he said. 'It elected and re-elected him and raised a second Hitler. 'If the Russians reach Poland, what will happen next? World War Three?' The Ukrainian media often refer to Putin as 'Putler', likening him to Adolf Hitler, the leader of Nazi Germany in the Second World War. Putin and other Russian officials regularly slur Zelensky as 'Nazis', and the Kremlin dictator says his goal in his 'special military operation' is to 'de-Nazify' Ukraine. Zelensky went on to vow that his country's gradual counteroffensive would not let up when winter comes to Ukraine. '[We need] to de-occupy the territory as long as possible and move forward,' said the Ukrainian president, who is desperately seeking new weapons and ammunition from the West. 'Even if it's less than half a mile, or 100 meters, you need to do it. 'In places where armoured vehicles cannot travel, we fly. If we don't know how to fly, we will send drones. 'We must not give Putin a break,' he concluded. Filing its case in the International Court of Justice last year, Ukraine said that 'Russia has turned the Genocide Convention on its head - making a false claim of genocide as a basis for actions on its part that constitute grave violations of the human rights of millions of people across Ukraine.' Ukraine brought the case to the Hague-based court based on the 1948 Genocide Convention, which both Moscow and Kyiv have ratified. A man pushes his bike through debris and destroyed Russian military vehicles on a street on April 06, 2022 in Bucha, Ukraine Graffiti depicting Putin with a Hitler moustache is seen View of the Peace Palace which houses the World Court where Ukraine's legal battle against Russia over allegations of genocide used by Moscow to justify its 2022 invasion In an interim ruling in March 2022, the court ordered Russia to halt hostilities in Ukraine, a binding legal ruling that Moscow has flouted as it presses ahead with its devastating attacks on Ukrainian towns and cities. Hearings this week are expected to see lawyers for Russia argue that the court does not have jurisdiction to hear the case, while Ukraine will call on judges to press ahead to hearings on the substance of its claims. In an unprecedented show of international support for Kyiv, 32 of Ukraine's allies including Canada, Australia and every European Union member nation except Hungary will also make statements in support of Kyiv's legal arguments. The United States asked to participate on Ukraine's side, but the U.N. court's judges rejected the U.S. request. The court's panel of international judges will likely take weeks or months to reach a decision on whether or not the case can proceed. And even if it does, a final ruling is likely years away. The International Court of Justice hears disputes between nations over matters of law, unlike the International Criminal Court, also based in The Hague, which holds individuals criminally responsible for offences including war crimes and crimes against humanity. The ICC has issued a war crimes arrest warrant for President Putin, accusing him of responsibility for the abduction of Ukrainian children. One of the most sophisticated and expensive fighter jets in the world is missing somewhere in South Carolina after a pilot was forced to eject for an unknown reason while leaving his F-35 with stealth capabilities flying in a 'zombie state.' The incident occurred over North Charleston around 2pm Sunday as two jets, worth around $100 million each, were flying side-by-side. The pilot ejected and parachuted safely into a residential area. He was taken to a local hospital, where he was in stable condition, said Maj. Melanie Salinas. The pilots name has not been released. Based on the missing planes location and trajectory, the search for the F-35 Lightning II jet was focused on Lake Moultrie, around 50 miles from North Charleston, said Senior Master Sgt. Heather Stanton at Joint Base Charleston. The pilot enabled the autopilot function prior to his ejection. Officials have also said that they have no evidence that that the plane has actually crashed. A Marine Corps pilot safely ejected from a F-35 Lightning II jet over North Charleston on Sunday but his aircraft remains missing Jeremy Huggins, spokesperson for Joint Base Charleston said that for an unknown reason, the F-35's transponder isn't working The plane and pilot were with the Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 based in Beaufort, not far from South Carolinas Atlantic coast The man-made Lake Moultrie is 75 feet deep at its deepest and 14 miles wide at its widest. An F-35 has a range of up to 1,200 miles but it's unclear how much fuel was in the jet at the time that it went missing. Jeremy Huggins, spokesperson for Joint Base Charleston said that for an unknown reason, the F-35's transponder isn't working. Huggins said: 'That's why we put out the public request for help.' The jets are designed to be undetectable. 'The aircraft is stealth, so it has different coatings and different designs that make it more difficult than a normal aircraft to detect,' Huggins told the Washington Post. A South Carolina Law Enforcement Division helicopter joined the search for the F-35 after some bad weather cleared in the area, Stanton said. Military officials appealed in online posts Sunday for any help from the public in locating the aircraft. Officials are still investigating why the pilot ejected, authorities said. The pilot of a second F-35 returned safely to Joint Base Charleston, Salinas said. Military officials appealed in online posts Sunday for any help from the public in locating the aircraft Rep. Nancy Mace, tweeted: 'How in the hell do you lose an F-35? How is there not a tracking device and were asking the public to what, find a jet and turn it in? Lake Moultrie in South Carolina, where the search is concentrated, is around 75 feet at its deepest point Local congresswoman, Rep. Nancy Mace, tweeted: 'How in the hell do you lose an F-35? How is there not a tracking device and were asking the public to what, find a jet and turn it in?' Lawmakers have recently been critical of the growing cost of producing F-35s. A May 2023 report found that it costs a total of $1.7 trillion to maintain the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter program. In addition, the program is $183 billion over budget. The aircraft is made by Lockheed Martin. The planes and pilots were with the Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 based in Beaufort, not far from South Carolinas Atlantic coast. The Air Force regards accidents that 'results in death, injury, illness or property damage' to be a 'mishap,' reports the Washington Post. Following the first ever F-35 crash in 2018, that accident was referred to as a 'Class A' mishap, meaning more than $2 million worth of damage was accrued. In October last year, an F-35 jet crashed and exploded in flames at the end of a runway in Salt Lake City after the pilot ejected. After the crash, the Hill Air Force Base said it was carrying out the 'first of its kin F-35 recovery course'. The training covered how to handle different scenarios safely and effectively, such as a collapsed nose gear, pilot extraction and aircraft hoisting. 'This training is invaluable for not only our U.S. military, but also for our partner countries who operate the F-35,' Master Sgt. Andrew Wilkow, instructor and one of the course designers, said at the time. 'Unfortunately, occasional mishaps take place, which necessitates having personnel properly trained on recovery procedures and how to safely accomplish these tasks.' Large plumes of smoke were seen where the F-35 crashed, just outside of Salt Lake City, in October 2022 Flames could be seen from the downed plane in Utah after the F-35 jet crashed in October 2022 The Marine Corps Air Station at Beaufort - where the pilot took off from in the most recent incident - is about 35 miles south west of Charleston and is home to several units of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing including the Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 which flies F-35B Lightning IIs. About 4,700 military personnel serve at the 6,900 acre site which uses a large air-to-air combat area off the coast of South Carolina and Georgia, along with an air-to-ground combat and bombing range in Georgia's McIntosh County. It was home to a heavily-decorated Marine Corps pilot who died last month when his combat jet crashed near a San Diego base during a training flight. Major Andrew Mettler was piloting an F/A-18D Hornet when it went down at just before midnight on August 24 near Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. That crash was the fifth Class-A aviation mishap - meaning damage totaling over $2million or fatality - in the current fiscal year, and the first involving a Marine Corps plane, according to Task & Purpose. This incident has been confirmed to the incident known as the Cornfield Bomber. In 1970, a pilot flying a Convair F-106 Delta Dart encountered problems which forced him to eject. The lessening of the load caused by the ejection, plus the force, allowed the plane's nose to dip and saw it land safely in a farmer's field in Montana with minor damage. The aircraft is now on displace at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. This is the heartwarming moment an Antiques Roadshow guest wiped away tears after being told a medal given to him by his father is worth 250,000. The guest told antiques experts in Glasgow that the Victoria Cross was given to his father, Sikh soldier Gian Singh, in 1945 for his contributions to Britain during the Second World War. Naik Gian Singh, from Punjab, India, was awarded Britain's most prestigious honour by King George VI for leading two lone charges against Japanese forces in Burma during the Second World War. Antiques expert Mark Smith told of the 24-year-old soldier's brave efforts to recapture a strategic position from Japanese forces while wounded - as he said the Victoria Cross medal given to him in recognition is now worth 250,000. Wiping away tears, the shocked guest, however, said he would never sell his father's medal despite it's high value - 'even if it was worth 10milllion'. The soldier's son explained that his father never talked to his children about his experiences during the war, before the antiques expert read out a citation that offered details of his heroic deeds. Naik Gian Singh won the Victoria Cross for his brave efforts in Burma during WW2 'Firing his Tommy Gun and hurling grenades Naik Gian Singh made two lone charges against the Japanese,' Mr Smith said. 'It was essential that the enemy should be dislodged from this area and when a Punjab platoon assaulting a nearby village came under very heavy firem, Naik Gian Singh ordered his machines gunners to cover him as he rushed the enemy foxholes.' 'Our tanks had now moved up and come under fire but Naik Gian Singh who had sustained several wounds again rushed forward and annihilated a Japanese anti-tankgun crew, capturing the weapon singlehanded. He then led the section in clearing all enemy positions.' Commenting on the soldier's bravery, the antiques expert said: 'I know these things happen really just in the heat of the moment but that still takes some bravery to do that.' Naik Gian Singh won the Victoria Cross for his brave efforts in Burma during WW2. Above: The honour with his other war medals The guest told Mr Smith that his father never talked about his heroic deeds with his children. 'I think he used to get emotional whenever he talked about it. Obviously he lost a lot of his friends in that battle,' the guest said. The Antiques Roadshow expert then asked whether his guest had 'any idea how much this thing might be worth' - to which the guest said 'no, my dad never wanted to be parted with it'. Mr Smith then revealed the bronze Victoria Cross medal is in fact worth 'a quarter of a million pounds' as onlookers gasped and the guest brushed tears from his eyes. He explained that when Victoria Cross medals were first instituted, Queen Victoria had said the bronze medals should not be made of anything 'precious... because it's not about the medal it's about the deed behind the medal.' The iconic awards have, however, become highly valuable due to their rarity, with the medals having only been awarded to those who have shown 'the most conspicuous bravery' or 'extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy'. Victoria Cross medals are now worth hundreds of thousands of pounds due to their rarity All in all, just 1,358 Victoria Cross medals have been given out since they were first introduced in 1856, to recognise acts of bravery during the Crimean War. A total of just 182 Victoria Cross medals were handed out during WW2, and just 15 have been handed out in the years since the end of the second world war. Mr Smith noted that 'because they [Victoria Cross medals] are now worth so much money, really the only place you are going to see them is in a museum, behind armoured glass. So when they do come out it's just an amazing moment.' Due to their value, a number of Victoria Cross medals have been subject to thefts and robberies in recent decades, leading to a number of the bonze medals having been put on Interpol's watch-list for stolen items. by M. K. Bhadrakumar The ground war in Ukraine has run its course, a new phase is beginning. Even diehard supporters of Ukraine in the western media and think tanks are admitting that a military victory over Russia is impossible and a vacation of the territory under Russian control is way beyond Kievs capability. Hence the ingenuity of the Biden Administration to explore Plan B counselling Kiev to be realistic about loss of territory and pragmatically seek dialogue with Moscow. This was the bitter message that US Secretary of State Antony Blinken transmitted to Kiev recently in person. Long-range cruise missiles supplied by UK and France, hit Russias Black Sea fleet at its home port of Sevastopol, Sept 13, 2023 But President Zelenskys caustic reaction in a subsequent interview with the Economist magazine is revealing. He hit back that the western leaders still talk the good talk, pledging they will stand with Ukraine as long as it takes (Biden mantra), but he, Zelensky, has detected a change of mood among some of his partners: I have this intuition, reading, hearing and seeing their eyes [when they say] well be always with you. But I see that he or she is not here, not with us. Certainly, Zelensky is reading the body language right, as in the absence of an overwhelming military success shortly, western support for Ukraine is time-limited. Zelensky knows that sustaining the western support will be difficult. Yet he hopes that if not Americans, European Union will at least keep supplying aid, and but may open negotiations over the accession process for Ukraine possibly even at its summit in December. But he also held out a veiled threat of terrorist threat to Europe warning that it would not be a good story for Europe if it were to drive these people [of Ukraine] into a corner. So far such ominous threats were muted, originating from low ranking activists of the fascist Bandera fringe. But Europe has its limits, too. The western stockpiles of weapons are exhausted and Ukraine is a bottomless pit. Importantly, conviction is lacking whether continued supplies would make any difference to the proxy war that is unwinnable. Besides, European economies are in doldrum, the recession in Germany may slide into depression, with profound consequences of deindustrialisation. Suffice to say, Zelenskys visit to the White House in the coming days becomes a defining moment. The Biden Administration is in a sombre mood that the proxy war is hindering a full-throttle Indo-Pacific strategy against China. Yet, during an appearance on ABCs This Week, Blinken explicitly stated for the first time that the US would not oppose Ukraine using US-supplied longer-range missiles to attack deep inside Russian territory, a move that Moscow has previously called a red line, which would make Washington a direct party to the conflict. The well-known American military historian, strategic thinker and combat veteran Colonel (Retd.) Douglas MacGregor (who served as advisor to the Pentagon during the Trump administration), is prescient when he says that a new Bidens phase of the war is about to begin. That is to say, having run out of ground forces, the locus will now shift to long-range strike weapons like the Storm Shadow, Taurus, ATACMS long-range missiles, etc. The US is considering sending ATACMS long-range missiles that Ukraine has been asking for a long time with the capability to strike deep inside Russian territory. The most provocative part is that NATO reconnaissance platforms, both manned and unmanned, will be used in such operations, making the US a virtual co-belligerent. Russia has been exercising restraint in attacking the source of such enemy capabilities but how long such restraint will continue is anybodys guess. In response to a pointed query about how Washington would see the attacks on Russian territory with American weaponry and technology, Blinken argued that the increasing number of attacks on Russian territory by Ukrainian drones are about how theyre [Ukrainians] going to defend their territory and how theyre working to take back whats been seized from them. Our [US] role, the role of dozens of other countries around the world that are supporting them, is to help them do that. Russia is not going to accept such a brazen escalation, especially as these advanced weapon systems used to attack Russia are actually manned by NATO personnel contractors, trained ex-military hands or even serving officers. President Putin told the media on Friday that we have detected foreign mercenaries and instructors both on the battlefield and in the units where training is carried out. I think yesterday or the day before yesterday someone was captured again. The US calculus is that at some point, Russia will be compelled to negotiate and a frozen conflict will ensue where the NATO allies would retain the option to continue with Ukraines military build-up and the process leading to its membership of the Atlantic alliance, and allow the Biden Administration to focus on the Indo-Pacific. However, Russia will not settle for a frozen conflict that falls far short of the objectives of demilitarisation and denazification of Ukraine that are the key objectives of its special military operation. Faced with this new phase of the proxy war, what form the Russian retaliation will take remains to be seen. There could be multiple ways without Russia directly attacking NATO territories or using nuclear weapons (unless the US stages a nuclear attack of which the chances are zero as of now.) Already, it is possible to see the potential resumption of military-technical cooperation between Russia and the DPRK (potentially including ICBM technology) as a natural consequence of the aggressive US policy towards Russia and its support for Ukraine as much as of the current international situation. The point is, today it is with DPRK; tomorrow it could be with Iran, Cuba or Venezuela what Col. MacGregor calls horizontal escalation by Moscow. The situation in Ukraine has become interconnected with the problems of the Korean Peninsula and Taiwan. Defence Minister Sergey Shoigu said on state television on Wednesday that Russia has no other options but to achieve a victory in its special military operation and will continue to make progress with their key mission of mowing down the enemys equipment and personnel. This suggests that the attritional war will be further intensified while the overall strategy may shift to achieving total military victory. The Ukrainian military is desperate for manpower. In the 15-week counteroffensive alone, over 71,000 Ukrainian soldiers have been killed. There is talk of Kiev seeking repatriation of its nationals in military age from among the refugees in Europe. On the other hand, in expectation of a prolonged conflict, the mobilisation in Russia is continuing. Putin disclosed on Friday that 300,000 people have volunteered and signed contracts to join the armed forces and new units are being formed, equipped with advanced types of weapons and equipment, and some of them are already 8590 percent equipped. The high likelihood is that once the Ukrainian counteroffensive peters out in another few weeks as a massive failure, Russian forces may launch a large-scale offensive. Conceivably, Russian forces may even cross Dnieper river and take control of Odessa and the coastline leading to the Romanian border, from where NATO has been mounting attacks on Crimea. Make no mistake, for the Anglo-American axis, encircling Russia in the Black Sea has always remained a top priority. M. K. Bhadrakumar was a career diplomat by profession. Roughly half of the 3 decades of his diplomatic career was devoted to assignments on the territories of the former Soviet Union and to Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan. Other overseas postings included South Korea, Sri Lanka, Germany, and Turkey. He writes mainly on Indian foreign policy and the affairs of the Middle East, Eurasia, Central Asia, South Asia and the Asia-Pacific. Italy's hard-Right prime minister has claimed that Europe's future is at stake unless the EU can stop the surge of uncontrolled migration across the Mediterranean. Giorgia Meloni, leader of the populist Brothers of Italy party, made the declaration alongside the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, on the Italian island of Lampedusa, where thousands of irregular migrants have landed on their journeys to Europe. 'The future that Europe wants for itself is at stake here,' Meloni, 46, declared at a press conference on the island. 'The future of Europe depends on its ability to tackle epoch-making challenges of our time and the challenge of illegal immigration is for sure one of them.' She said that Italy could not shoulder the full weight of responsibility for fighting irregular migration: 'We all stake our future on this issue. At the very least we need an EU naval mission against smugglers.' She spoke on the Italian island of Lampedusa, where the migrant population far outweighs the local Italian population Italian PM Giorgia Meloni (pictured) said that Europe's future was at stake The EU has pledged to move the 8,500 or so migrants that currently live on the island to other parts of the bloc 'If we don't work seriously all together to fight the illegal departures, the numbers of this will not only overwhelm the border countries, but all of the others,' she warned. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen stood side-by-side with Italy's first female prime minister, and revealed her ten-point immigration support plan to support the island of around 7,000 residents, telling them: 'You can count on the European Union.' The EU has pledged to move the 8,500 or so migrants that currently live on the island to other parts of the bloc. It will also step up border surveillance by beefing up Frontex, the EU's border agency, with more equipment. Ms von der Leyen also vowed to increase migrants' access to legal channels, telling the press conference: 'The better we are with legal migration the stricter we can be with irregular migration.' She added: 'Irregular migration is a European challenge and it needs a European answer. We will decide who comes to the EU and under what circumstance and not the smugglers and traffickers.' New EU figures have revealed that asylum claim levels are almost the same as 2015, when the EU underwent a major migrant crisis The EU's latest pledge comes days after France stepped up its border security and Germany had suspended a voluntary programme for the reallocation of migrants European sentiment towards migrants has soured as data from Frontex revealed that the EU has faced a 96 per cent increase in irregular crossings via the central Mediterranean route to Italy Nearly 128,000 migrants have arrived in the EU via Italian soil this year so far, twice as many as last year The major EU pledge comes just three months after both Ms von der Leyen and Ms Meloni travelled to Tunisia to seek its cooperation in the fight against irregular migration across the Mediterranean. Ms Meloni is looking to get the EU to accelerate a migration deal with Tunisia worth 785million (676million) that would help the country return migrants to their countries of origin and beef up its coastguard with new and better equipment. The EU's latest pledge also comes days after France stepped up its border security and Germany had suspended a voluntary programme for the reallocation of migrants, complaining that Italy was not respecting the EU's rules on accepting returned migrants. The German government later reinstated the programme after von der Leyen and European Council president Charles Michel intervened. European sentiment towards migrants has soured as data from Frontex revealed that the EU has faced a 96 per cent increase in irregular crossings via the central Mediterranean route to Italy this year. Nearly 128,000 migrants have arrived in the EU via Italian soil this year so far, twice as many as last year. Italy currently bears the brunt of the migration crisis. Half of all irregular border crossings into the EU picked up by Frontex were in Italy. The island is a key part of the route migrants from Africa take to get to Europe Thousands of migrants are currently living on Lampedusa Italy has seen nearly 128,000 migrants arrive on its shores this year alone This month, EU officials said they expected more than a million asylum seekers would register claims this year alone. In 2015, 1.2million asylum claims were lodged in the EU, which plunged the continent into crisis as more and more EU citizens were driven to hardline anti-immigration parties. The 2015 migrant crisis also left hundreds of migrants dead as EU states were unable to cope with the massive influx of people, with many bodies being found frozen in refrigerated vans, in the wrecks of capsized boats, and washed up on beaches. That September, a shocking image of the body of Aylan Kurdi, a two-year-old Syrian refugee, washed up on a Turkish beach after a failed attempt to get to Greece brought a harsh spotlight on EU countries for not doing enough to prevent migrant deaths. Despite this scrutiny, two weeks after the photo of Aylan was taken, Hungary put up a hard border with its neighbours Serbia and Croatia, with the aim of increasing border security and preventing irregular migrants from getting in. Four were taken into custody at around 5.45am according to police Police have captured nine teenagers who escaped from a juvenile detention facility in Pennsylvania after a ten-hour manhunt. Authorities raised the alarm after the teens fled Abraxas Academy at around 8pm on Sunday, shortly after a riot broke out. Pennsylvania State Trooper David Beohm confirmed that four escapees were taken into custody after 'banging on a door' on Oak Grove Road. 'They were done, they were tired, they were cold. We went there and took them into custody', Beohm added. He confirmed that the other five were arrested after stealing a vehicle and a trailer at 6.30am, leading to a pursuit by law enforcement. Pennsylvania State Police and other agencies launched a search for the juveniles after they fled from Abraxas Academy at around 8pm on Sunday The teens are expected to be charged with escape, and criminal mischief for stealing the car, according to Beohm. The vehicle stopped, and four more teens were apprehended, while one attempted to flee the scene but was arrested shortly afterward. State and local police were called to intervene at the center in Morgantown, about 49 miles northwest of Philadelphia, after the riot began inside the facility, the Caernarvon Township Police Department said in a statement on its website. They were able to 'take back control' of the facility, and a 'perimeter' has now been established around it, Beohm said. Abraxas Academy is a secure residential treatment program providing 'specialized care for delinquent male youth between the ages of 14 to 18 in 9th grade or above,' according to the facility's website. 'Treatment at the Academy is for youth who demonstrate a consistent display of delinquent patterns through multiple placements, serious charges, and problematic behaviors. 'Youth are admitted to the Academy for either habitual offending behaviors or for a history of sexual offending behavior,' it reads. The urgent search for the escaped juveniles comes just days after the capture of an escaped murderer who broke out of a facility 15 miles away. Danilo Cavalcante was captured on Wednesday after he eluded Pennsylvania authorities for several days despite an extended manhunt. Russell Brand's father today defended his son against claims he abused women for years, calling them 'unproven' and declaring: 'Is this seriously the most important thing happening in this world?'. Ron Brand, 80, is the man the star credits for super-charging his 'rapacious' sex addiction after he lost his virginity to a prostitute paid for by his father who was sleeping with two more women in a neighbouring bed in Hong Kong. Brand Sr has today hit out at 'unproven' allegations about his son, and suggested that dark forces including the BBC are pursuing a 'vendetta' against him, as more women came forward to accuse him of abuse. He said: 'Is this seriously the most important thing happening in this world? Immigrants? Cost of living? 10s of thousands killed in Ukraine? Who is prioritising at BBC News. Who is really driving this vendetta?'. He added: 'With many struggling to pay bills. The unproven accusations of 15 years ago take lead on BBC News?'. In another Facebook post he said later: 'The Russell Brand Vendetta. Like a man who owns an orchard being accused of Stealing an Apple?' Comedian Russell Brand and his dad, Ron, are pictured as they leave a London hotel, after enjoying lunch together in 2014 Ron Brand took aim at the allegations and the BBC as he defended his son Brand remains close to his father. His parents split when he was six and his mother beat cancer six times Father and son together in a YouTube film where they fought in the boxing ring Ron Brand, pictured with Amy Winehouse at the height of his son's fame in 2010, paid for a prostitute that his famous son lost his virginity to, the star has said Russell Brand, and mother Barbara at the the European Premiere of 'Rock Of Ages' in London in 2010. Russell was brought up by her and they are close The influence of Ron Brand on his son and his sex life was revealed in his son's autobiography My Booky Wook. His parents split up when he was six. Although Brand adored his mother, and was bound ever closer to her when she suffered cancer when he was a child, he has clearly been greatly influenced by his father. He talked about watching porn videos at his dads house when he was in primary school. When he was 17, Brand and his father went on a trip to the Far East. Brand was hugely excited by chatting to bar girls in Hong Kong, and could not believe his luck when Ron hired three of them to go back to their hotel. My dad set about unwrapping his two prostitutes, he wrote. He attempted to impress the remaining one, although he found the bedlam from the neighbouring bed unsettling. 'I sat on the edge of the other twin bed. She must have known I was a virgin as soon as the bungling encounter commenced. 'I stroked Mary-Lou's hair and kissed her cheek and traced my finger down her perfect nose, scored by the cacophony from the adjacent bedlam, "Yeah, come on!' and "Phwooar, you're juicy".' He added that during the rest of that holiday I f****d loads more prostitutes and never wore a condom it had hardened me my sexuality had morphed for ever from bewildered innocence into something more complex and rapacious. Brand Sr, a former footballer and actor turned photographer who has apparently been married three times, lists himself as single on Facebook. On Facebook he says he 'studied at Life and the college of getting the sh*t kick out of you'. His son has admitted that he had a 'strange relationship' with his father, who left the family home when he was a young child. He was then a 'sporadic' visitor. He lived alone at a flat in in Brentwood. Russell said in his book that he would watch porn at his dad's bachelor pad while Ron had sex with women in the bedroom. Ron would apparently always be there for his son's birthdays but would bring inappropriate gifts, such as a giant dog called Toby. Brand Sr moved to Germany for a time and after a windfall of cash sent his son to private school but this only lasted a term. In 2012, at the height of his son's fame he faced bankruptcy proceedings in Guildford for 13,000 in unpaid rent. It was claimed he had refused to ask his famous millionaire son for help. At the same time he was photographed out with his son, and some of his son's famous friends, including Amy Winehouse. Russell Brand is alleged to have asked staff on the Big Brother shows he was hosting to ask female audience members for their numbers. Pictured: Russell Brand hosting Big Brother's Little Brother in May 2006 Former staffers on the show claimed they felt Brand had got them to 'act like pimps' with his requests. Pictured: Brand on Celebrity Great British Bake Off Russell Brand pictured with his wife Laura Gallacher Alice (pictured) alleges that Russell Brand sexually assaulted her when she was 16 years old. She claims he would send a car to pick her up secondary school lessons, which she has since claimed was a 'BBC car' Today The Times and Sunday Times claimed several more women have come forward with undisclosed and untested allegations about Brand's behaviour during the early 2000s in wake of their joint investigation with Channel 4 which was published on Saturday. The latest allegations - which the newspaper says have not been investigated, but will now be 'rigorously checked' - follow accusations from four women, including one who claims she was sexually assaulted by Brand during a three-month relationship with him when she was 16 and still at school. EXECUTIVES WITH QUESTIONS TO ANSWER THE RADIO BOSS Radio 2 controller Lesley Douglas gave Russell Brand his own BBC show, firstly at the digital station 6 Music then in a short space of time at Radio 2 itself. She was regarded as the presenters biggest champion at the corporation. But it was because of Brand and Jonathan Ross that she was forced to resign in 2008 after the pair left a series of lewd phone messages to Fawlty Towers star Andrew Sachs claiming Brand had had sex with his granddaughter. Among the latest allegations against Brand are that Ms Douglas had received complaints about his behaviour, but that nothing resulted. After leaving the BBC, Ms Douglas joined Universal Music. She is now thought to be running her own production company. The Mail was unable to contact her, but a statement on Dispatches read: Ms Douglas did not at any time encourage, enable, and/or fail herself to take any adequate steps within her power with regard to the conduct of Mr Brand of which she was aware. THE AGENT BRANDS agent John Noel is the man who turned him into a huge star. Representing him at his company John Noel Management from 2002 to 2017, he appeared to be willing to go the extra mile to dig his client out of any crises, support which helped Brand land a plum role presenting E4s Big Brother spin-off show Big Brothers Big Mouth in 2004. Noels son Nik Linnen was even best man at Brands wedding to Katy Perry. The Mail has contacted Noel. A company spokesman said they were unable to respond to the allegations for legal reasons. THE TV EXECUTIVE Sir Peter Bazalgette the man who brought Big Brother to our screens was a senior executive at the shows production company Endemol at the time some of Brands alleged actions were said to have taken place. While Sir Peter is not thought to have had any direct role in producing the shows, there have been questions about how much Endemol managers knew about Brand. Endemol said that it has no record about these issues being formally raised. Sir Peter has been contacted for comment. Advertisement The BBC is now also facing 'urgent questions' after it was claimed that Brand, 48, used his company-provided car service to pick the girl up from school. It comes as both BBC and Channel 4 have launched internal investigations into separate accusations of predatory behaviour by Brand towards staff and audience members during the time of his employment. Channel 4 has since removed all programmes linked to Brand from its website, including episodes of The Great British Bake Off and Big Brother's Big Mouth in which he was featured, The Daily Telegraph reported. Netflix has since been urged to remove his comedy special, titled Re:Birth, from its streaming catalogue. The maverick actor and stand-up comic has strenuously denied any wrongdoing and blamed the mainstream media for the litany of astonishing rather baroque attacks. BBC chiefs launched an investigation into Brand last night after the comedian was accused of rape. Their probe was announced minutes before Scotland Yard piled on the pressure by announcing that detectives would like to speak to the comedians alleged victims. Brand, a former star of the BBC and Channel 4, faces bombshell claims from women alleging sexual assaults, abuse and predatory behaviour including one who was a 16-year-old schoolgirl. But the claims from one businesswoman who alleged Brand raped her when she refused a threesome and another who said she was 16 when he choked her during a sexual act, prompted a firestorm yesterday. Among the complaints raised in the investigation were allegations by a woman, referred to as Alice to protect her identity, who claims she was sexually assaulted by Brand as a 16-year-old. She alleges he took her virginity, was 'preoccupied' with her being 'innocent and pure', and often referred to her as 'The Child'. Alice described his behaviour towards her as 'grooming' as Brand would allegedly provide her with scripts on how to deceive her parents into allowing her to visit him. She also claimed he would send his 'BBC car' to her secondary school to pick her up. 'The first time I used it, he told me it was booked to take him to his radio show but he had a friend taking him instead so I should use that car,' she told The Times. She claimed the chauffeur once took her from Brand's home to her grandmother's house and that on a separate occasion the same car 'picked me up from school'. Alice added: 'It was the same car...I knew that that was a BBC car.' The BBC did not initially commit to an inquiry but amid the growing outcry, it shifted its position last night and a spokesman said it was urgently looking into the issues. In a statement, a BBC spokesman said: 'The documentary and associated reports contained serious allegations, spanning a number of years. 'Russell Brand worked on BBC radio programmes between 2006 and 2008 and we are urgently looking into the issues raised.' The broadcaster yesterday launched an internal investigation into what was known about Brand's alleged behaviour following claims that at least one senior executive was aware of complaints against the comedian and seemingly dismissed them. Banijay UK, which produced Big Brother's EForum and Big Brother's Big Mouth in the early 2000s, revealed it had also 'launched an urgent investigation' into the 'very serious' allegations from former staff who worked alongside Brand when he hosted the programmes between 2004 and 2006. The ex-staffers have claimed that Brand got them to 'act like pimps' by getting the numbers of women in the audience and passing notes to them from the presenter. Channel 4 has also said it is conducting its own internal investigation following allegations of predatory behaviour against Brand. They said: 'We have asked the production company who produced the programmes for Channel 4 to investigate these allegations and report their findings properly and satisfactorily to us. 'Channel 4 is also conducting its own internal investigation, and we would encourage anyone who is aware of such behaviour to contact us directly.' The statement added: 'We will be writing to all our current suppliers reminding them of their responsibilities under our Code of Conduct, as we are committed to ensuring our industry has safe, inclusive and professional working environments.' The network also confirmed to the Telegraph that it has 'taken down all content featuring Russell Brand while we look into the matter'. MailOnline has approached the BBC, Channel 4 and Netflix for comment. Screen grab taken from Channel 4 Dispatches trailer of Nadia - or an actress playing Nadia - speaking about her harrowing experience The Metropolitan Police have begun enquiries into allegations of sexual assault published in The Sunday Times and on Channel 4's Dispatches. The show saw multiple women accusing him of abusive and predatory behaviour, including rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse, between 2006 and 2013. Officers have spoken to The Sunday Times following the report and have now encouraged any potential victims to come forwards. At this time, the force has 'not received any reports in relation' to the allegations of sexual assault detailed in the article or documentary. Met Police intends to further speak with the newspaper and broadcaster in a bid to 'ensure that any victims of crime who they have spoken with are aware of how they may report any criminal allegations to police'. READ MORE: Police urge victims to come forward as Russell Brand is accused of rape Advertisement The force said in a statement: 'We are aware of media reporting of a series of allegations of sexual assault. At this time, we have not received any reports in relation to this. 'We spoke with the Sunday Times on Saturday, September 16. We will be making further approaches to the Sunday Times and Channel 4 to ensure that any victims of crime who they have spoken with are aware of how they may report any criminal allegations to police.' The Times today reported that more women have come forward to detail allegations of Brand's alleged treatment of them. Those claims have yet to be investigated. But one alleged victim whose story was featured in the documentary says she is relieved that other women's allegations are being heard. The woman, referred to as Nadia in the investigation, told The Times last night: 'I'm super-proud of all the women who have come forward. I know how hard it is - thinking "I'm the only one" and "Who is going to believe me". 'It was all very hard to read and to watch but I think it's very necessary - because he needs to be stopped.' Nadia, who claims Brand raped her in his Los Angeles home in 2012, added that he 'cannot hurt me any more' and said she hopes that he will 'not hurt anybody else'. Brand was dropped by a charity working to end violence against women in light of the accusations. However, he has received support from some public figures, with the likes of Elon Musk, Andrew Tate and Laurence Fox all appearing to back the comedian as he claimed to be the victim of a 'co-ordinated media attack'. Billionaire tech mogul Musk, self-proclaimed misogynist Tate and actor-turned-political activist Fox threw their weight behind Brand, fellow comedians such as Jo Caulfield, Sofie Hagen and Daniel Sloss appeared to turn their backs on him. Russell Brand pictured on Saturday evening leaving the Troubabour Wembley Park theatre in north-west London after performing a comedy set Two of the women in Channel 4's Dispatches which aired on Saturday night said they felt production companies had 'enabled' Brand's behaviour. Production runner, Rachel, 24, worked alongside Brand on Big Brother's EForum, later Big Mouth. Weeks after she started the role, Brand is said to have focused his attention on her. Rachel said: 'It's difficult to say when the line was crossed.' She added that producers often asked her to deliver unfavourable news to Brand to 'soften the blow'. She said the pair went on to have sex, which he told her was a breach of his contract. Rachel said: 'He made clear to me I couldn't tell anyone else on the crew because he had it written into his contract that he wasn't allowed to have any sexual contact with anyone working on Big Brother. 'It sounds slightly dramatic but with hindsight and now as an older woman I can say with clarity that, you know, I felt like I was groomed, for sex. 'Production companies enabled him to exist in these environments where he was able to take advantage of who he was.' Three staff who worked on Big Brother told Dispatches about Brand. One said: 'My role was to recruit audience members for the live show. We used to go out flyering out by the universities, find university students who would come be on the show.' Another said: 'Russell is pointing out audience members and asking the runner to get phone numbers.' A third said they would be handed paper sometimes telling which hotel Brand was in. The production staff said they received tearful phone calls the next day from those that had been to see the comedian. One said: 'It was like we were taking lambs into slaughter. We were basically acting like pimps to Russell Brand's needs.' A researcher claimed concerns about his behaviour while working on the shows were reported to production managers at Endemol, which was bought by Banijay UK in 2020. A statement from Banijay UK, which bought Endemol in 2020, said: 'In light of the very serious allegations raised by Dispatches and The Times/Sunday Times investigation relating to the alleged serious misconduct of Russell Brand while presenting shows produced by Endemol in 2004 and 2005, Banijay UK has launched an urgent internal investigation and will co-operate with any requests for information from broadcast partners and external agencies. 'We also encourage anybody who feels that they were affected by Brand's behaviour while working on these productions to contact us in confidence.' Banijay UK, which produced Big Brother's EForum and Big Brother's Big Mouth in the early 2000s, said it had 'launched an urgent investigation' into his alleged behaviour. Pictured: Russell Brand standing with Davina McCall during filming for Big Brother in 2005 Comedian Russell Brand was accused of rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse of four women following a bombshell investigation. Pictured: Brand leaving Troubadour Wembley Park theatre in north London following a live performance of his show In a statement, Channel 4 said: 'Channel 4 is appalled to learn of these deeply troubling allegations, including behaviour alleged to have taken place on programmes made for Channel 4 between 2004 and 2007. 'We are determined to understand the full nature of what went on. We have carried out extensive document searches and have found no evidence to suggest the alleged incidents were brought to the attention of Channel 4. We will continue to review this in light of any further information we receive, including the accounts of those affected individuals. 'We will be asking the production company who produced the programmes for Channel 4 to investigate these allegations and report their findings properly and satisfactorily to us. 'In the many years since the alleged incidents took place, there has obviously been extensive change in Channel 4's management and commissioning teams. Today, Channel 4 has a zero-tolerance approach to unacceptable behaviour and has a robust Code of Conduct. We require all suppliers to have in place rigorous safeguarding policies and provide whistle-blowing support, including Channel 4's Speak Up facility. 'We are committed to ensuring our industry has safe, inclusive and professional working environments.' Andrew Tate took to X, posting a cartoon meme of a knight preparing for battle, captioned: 'On my way to fight the crazy b***h allegations' In a separate Tweet responding to Brand's video he called the allegations made against the comedian a 'Matrix attack' Responding to the Tweet, tech mogul Elon Musk told Brand: 'Of course. They don't like competition' Smooth Radio presenter Kirsty Gallacher shared Brand's video on her Instagram story with a large red love heart, however, a few hours later and after the investigation was published in full at 4pm BST, the post vanished from her Instagram stories, suggesting she had deleted it While TV bosses investigate the claims made by Brand's accusers, the comic has received support online from the likes of Andrew Tate, Elon Musk, Laurence Fox and his sister-in-law Kirsty Gallacher. Appearing to support Brand, Tate said 'Welcome to the club Russell Brand' accompanied by a cartoon meme of a knight preparing for battle, captioned: 'On my way to fight the crazy b***h allegations'. Tate, who is currently facing charges of rape and human trafficking - which he has denied - in a separate Tweet responded to Brand's video calling it a 'Matrix attack'. Meanwhile, Tesla and X owner Musk, also appeared to back the under fire star's comments on the media. He said: 'Of course. They don't like competition.' In a video questioning the allegations against Brand, Fox said: 'It's fascinating to see some parts of the legacy media talking about Russell Brand like we are going to believe anything they say about anything. 'Whatever Russell Brand got up to, and I can guarantee it because I was around, everything he would have done, would have been sort of acceptable. 'Because otherwise his producers would have called him out and fired him. 'Now that may be an uncomfortable thing to deal with for people but that's how the world was then.' His sister-in-law, model and TV star Kirsty Gallacher, initially appeared to be in support of Brand, who is married to her younger sister Laura. She shared his video to her Instagram story with a huge red love heart - but just a few hours after the full investigation was published the post, which remains up for 24 hours, had disappeared. However, famous names from the British comedy circuit appeared to distance themselves from Brand. Mock of the Week presenter Jo Caulfield took to X this morning, writing: 'In whatever industry you work in, keep speaking out. 'Predatory behaviour and abuse is wrong.... It's a tragic and age old story and it has to stop.' Meanwhile, British comedian Sofie Hagen also spoke out against alleged lurid behaviour within the industry. She wrote: 'In my current show, I briefly talk about a comedian who was once preying on a 16 year old girl AND IT WASN'T EVEN RUSSELL BRAND. It was ANOTHER ONE. 'The internet is flooded with statistics and examples of what happens to victims who report sexual assault or people that speak out against predators, so if it bugs you that we all keep talking about unnamed predators, then know, it probably bugs us too that they're unnamed.' And comic Dom Joly wrote: 'The amount of people defending Russell Brand, slagging off the women involved and believing that this is all because Brand is some 'threat to the Matrix' is pure Trumpism and deeply, deeply depressing...' Following Channel 4's Dispatches investigation into the alleged abuse, Trevi - a charity that supports vulnerable women and children - have cut all ties with Brand On Brand's charity Stay Free, he lists several organisations he donates too. Trevi said it had cut ties with Brand, however,, the Treasures Foundation said it was not making a decision at this time Earlier yesterday Trevi, a women's charity that Brand has worked with for more than a year, said they had 'ended their association' with him. The organisation that helps vulnerable women and children said it had been 'deeply saddened and upset' by the alleged victim's stories adding its priority remains protecting the 'safety and well-being of all women and girls'. A photo of Brand still remains on the charity's homepage, however, along with an article about how he is raising funds for Trevi at his new live show Bipolarisation in Plymouth on Tuesday. In a statement posted to its Instagram just hours after the shocking documentary was released Trevi said: 'We are deeply saddened and upset by the stories reported on this evening's Channel 4 Dispatches programme regarding Russell Brand. 'Russell became aware of our charity in 2022 after hearing about some of the incredible mothers we have helped to become drug-free over the years. He wanted to support our cause and raise money through his Stay Free Foundation. 'Today's media revelations have been difficult to process but our priority remains and continues to be the safety and well-being of all women and girls now and in the future. 'We have ended our association with Russell Brand and the Stay Free Foundation. 'As a charity whose values put women's voices at the heart of what we do, we always prioritise supporting women affected by violence and abuse and empower them to live without violence and fear.' It added that it understood how the allegations could be triggering for some women and urged those who need support to contact The Survivor Pathway. In the investigations, one woman alleged Brand raped her against the wall in his Los Angeles home when she was in her 30s. Another whom he referred to as 'the child' told how the presenter targeted her when was 16 years old and still at school, and he was aged 30. The Met Police said it had been made 'aware' of media reports about 'a series of allegations of sexual assault' and urged any alleged victims to come forward. But in an extra-ordinary preemptive fightback, Brand took to social media ahead of the 90-minute Dispatches documentary to the social media to 'absolutely deny' a string of 'very serious criminal allegations'. The comedian is also a supporter of several other organisations, including the Friendly House - an organisation in Los Angeles that provides women seeking recovery from alcohol and other substance use. One of the charities Brand supports is the Friendly House in Los Angeles, California. He remains on their homepage and is set to host a lunch in October Brand is also a supporter of the BAC O'Connor Centre, which helps provide rehabilitation for recovering addicts The comedian's charity Stay Free, which helps those with addiction, also donates money to the Treasure Foundation. The foundation which helps women suffering from drug abuse in East London, however, told MailOnline that it would not be cutting any ties with the comedian at present, adding that the women it supports were the priority. It said that many of the people supported by the foundation have 'been through sexual trauma' and some have even 'been perpetrators', adding that part of the program includes practicing forgiveness. A spokeswoman said: 'At Treasures Foundation we only know Russell Brand in the capacity of him wanting to make amends and give back to women, hence the desire of his to give to our charity. 'We are part of a program that practices forgiveness and making amends. Many of us have been through sexual trauma and some of us have been perpetrators. 'We need to take this time to process what is going on, we are talking to the women we support and will be issuing feedback from them, as as always the voice of the women we support is of the upmost importance. 'We cant make an opinion on what has come out right now. We just know him for the good that he does now.' The comedian, who has insisted that during his 'time of promiscuity the relationships I had were absolutely always consensual', also supports the BAC O'Connor Centre, in Staffordshire. The organisation helps rehabilitate those recovering from drug and alcohol addiction. A video of Brand, who is been open about his own struggles with addiction in the past, explaining why those suffering should choose the organisation. MailOnline has contacted Trevi, the Friendly House and BAC O'Connor. Just hours after the allegations first came to light, Brand took centre stage at Wembley Park Theatre in front of a crowd of 2,000 people. He told fans as he continued his tour: 'I really appreciate your support. I love you. 'I've got a lot to talk to you about. There are obviously some things I absolutely cannot talk about and I appreciate that you will understand.' The married father-of-two, whose wife Laura is expecting their third child, has also said that while he had been 'very, very promiscuous' in the past, the 'relationships I had were absolutely always consensual'. There was no sign of him yesterday at the family's 3million riverside home in Oxfordshire. It is not the first time Brand has been accused of inappropriate behaviour. Jordan Martin, a former girlfriend, claimed he had sexually assaulted her and 'made me brush my teeth so hard my gums bled so I would taste 'anonymous' to him'. A depraved teenager who raped an eight-year-old girl and sexually assaulted three young boys between the ages of four and ten has been released from prison after serving less than two years behind bars. Vile Jack Dalziel, 19, sexually assaulted all four of his young victims at a house in Motherwell, North Lanarkshire between 2018 and 2019 before eventually being jailed for three and a half years. But due to Scottish automatic early release guidelines, Dalziel has now been released midway through his sentence leaving the families of his victims disgusted and terrified. During a lengthy trial, in which an unrepentant Dalziel forced his four young victims to testify in court, the shocking nature of his crimes were revealed. Dalziel had restrained the eight-year-old girl at the property before raping her. Vile Jack Dalziel, 19, sexually assaulted all four of his young victims at a house in Motherwell Due to Scottish automatic early release guidelines, Dalziel has now been released midway through his sentence During a lengthy trial, in which an unrepentant Dalziel forced his four young victims to testify in court, the shocking nature of his crimes were revealed (Pictured: Glasgow High Court) The Sun reports the monster then warned the young girl if she told anyone what had happened he would 'kill and bury her'. In October 2019, Dalziel sexually assaulted a four-year-old boy and attempted to rape him before threatening him and his mother. It's thought the child, who had been punched in the stomach by Dalziel, managed to escape by kicking him in the face. He also attacked and sexually assaulted two other boys aged nine and ten, threatening one with a needle before handcuffing him to a chair and threatening to strangle him. The other child was restrained with a chain and sexually assaulted. Following the news that Dalziel is back on the streets, the mother of two of the victims - the girl now 12, and boy now 4 - has said her children's lives have been shattered by the abuse. She told the Sun: 'My daughter has given up on life. She hasn't been out of the house since this happened. 'We can barely get her to go to school. They both had meltdowns a few weeks ago. 'My daughter was holding her head screaming, "he's ruined my life". 'My son was shouting, "I remember what that dirty boy did to me, why me?"' Tributes have been paid to a British couple killed in a 'freak' accident in northern Spain after they fell off their motorbike as cars behind them were unable to brake. Kieron Haines, 68, and his wife Sharron, 65, died after coming off their bike on a motorway during heavy rain. Both were hit by following vehicles which were unable to brake in time after they were flung onto the tarmac on Monday last week. Friends spoke of their sadness overnight after being contacted by relatives of the couple, from Norwich in Norfolk, about the devastating news. As well as a shared passion for motorbikes which had seen them do several European tours, they also kept an allotment and Kieron was a keen amateur beekeeper. Kieron Haines, 68, and his wife Sharron, 65, died after coming off their bike on a motorway during heavy rain (the couple pictured) Tributes have been paid to British couple (pictured) who were killed in a 'freak' accident in northern Spain last week The accident happened last week on the A-8 motorway near to the resort town of Llanes (file image) an hour's drive east of the northern Spanish city of Oviedo The fatal accident happened last Monday around 5.30pm on the A-8 motorway near the resort town of Llanes an hour's drive east of the northern Spanish city of Oviedo. Shelagh Gurney, Norfolk County Councillor for Hellesdon near Norwich where Kieron and his wife lived, said in a message to her local allotment holders' association over the weekend: 'It is with great sadness and upset that I have to advise you that my dear friend and bee colleague Kieron Haines and his dearest wife and old school friend of mine Sharron have both lost their lives in a freak motorcycle accident whilst touring with the motorcycle club they belong to in northern Spain.' Saying she had been contacted by their son Ben, one of the couple's two children, she added: 'I am devastated to say the least and I know you will all know them both as they had an allotment. Rest in peace my dear beekeeping friend and your wife.' Construction worker David Rowe replied: 'That is so sad. He was a lovely guy, always had time for a chat, both very nice people.' Fellow allotment grower Shirley King wrote: 'We are very shocked and saddened by the news. 'We will miss him so much as he was a great allotment neighbour.' Another acquaintance added: 'Kieron was a lovely down-to-earth man. 'Our thoughts are with his family and friends.' Friends of Kieron and Sharron Haines (pictured) spoke of their sadness overnight after being contacted by relatives of the couple, from Norwich in Norfolk As well as a shared passion for motorbikes which had seen them do several European tours, Kieron and Sharron also kept an allotment Kieron and Sharron were hit by following vehicles which were unable to brake in time after they were flung onto the tarmac after falling from the motorcycle on Monday last week Well-travelled Kieron and Sharron featured high on a 'Leader Board' of tours organised by a Surrey-based motorcycle tour firm. It was not immediately clear this morning if the couple had been travelling with the firm or an East Anglia club they are thought to have belonged to. Their son Ben, in an emotional tribute to his parents earlier this year to mark their 30th wedding anniversary, wrote on Facebook: 'Happy anniversary to a beautiful mother and an awesome father. 'You both consistently inspire me to be the best person I can be. Hope you have a great day.' Friend Teresa Beach replied at the time: 'Happy anniversary to two of the nicest people I know.' A spokesman for the Civil Guard confirmed after last week's tragic accident: 'Two British nationals have died in an accident on the A8 motorway in the municipality of Blanes, near the Balmori exit. 'They were a couple aged 68 and 65. They were heading west in the direction of the provincial capital Oviedo when the motorbike they were on overturned for reasons which are still being investigated.' Well-travelled Kieron and Sharron featured high on a 'Leader Board' of tours organised by a Surrey-based motorcycle tour firm Well-travelled Kieron and Sharron are pictured together in holiday snaps. Friends have now paid tribute to the pair The accident led to the temporary closure of part of the motorway. Local reports at the time said the accident occurred while it was raining heavily in the area. A Civil Guard report into the incident has not been made public and has been handed to a local investigating judge. Post-mortem results have not been made public either, as is normal in Spain. Russell Brand bragged about kissing Meghan Markle before her eventual marriage to Prince Harry - after the pair allegedly met on a Hollywood film set in 2009. Over the weekend, the comedian has been subject to multiple claims from women accusing him of abusive and predatory behaviour, including rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse, between 2006 and 2013. Brand 'absolutely denies' the allegations and insists all his relationships have been consensual. In a resurfaced clip from ITV's Loose Women in 2018, Brand claimed he had a brief encounter with the future Duchess of Sussex just a week before she was due to be married to Prince Harry. The pair both featured in the 2010 film Get Him To The Greek - in which Brand played a drug-addled sexually promiscuous rockstar. Brand made the comments a week before Meghan Markle married Prince Harry in 2018 In a resurfaced clip from ITV 's Loose Women in 2018, Brand claimed he had a brief encounter with the future Duchess of Sussex Discussing the alleged encounter on Loose Women in 2018, Brand bragged: 'She was in a film that I was in, Get Him to the Greek, it was a good film. 'Meghan Markle - didn't know at the time because she wasn't married to a Royal person. 'I don't remember the film that much, I think I planted one on her in the scene. 'It was scripted in the scene. I only know this because I think I saw a clip of it somewhere. Meghan Markle, there we go. 'They should bring that up [at the wedding] if anyone has any reason yeah Russell Brand snogged her in the film!' Some have claimed a clip from the film shows the moment in question, but doubt has been cast over whether it actually shows Brand kissing Meghan. Brand said he saw a clip of the 'unmemorable' moment online, but it would appear that the scene, if it occurred, didn't make the final cut of the movie. Since Brand was the subject of an investigation by The Times, The Sunday Times and Channel 4's Dispatches, more women have come forward with allegations about how he has treated them, it has emerged. The Times and Sunday Times claim 'several women' have come forward with undisclosed allegations about Brand's behaviour during the early 2000s in wake of their joint investigation with Channel 4 which was published on Saturday. The latest allegations - which the newspaper says have not been investigated, but will now be 'rigorously checked' - follow accusations from four women, including one who claims she was sexually assaulted by Brand during a three-month relationship with him when she was 16 and still at school. Russell Brand is alleged to have asked staff on the Big Brother shows he was hosting to ask female audience members for their numbers. Pictured: Russell Brand hosting Big Brother's Little Brother in May 2006 Pictured: Brand on Celebrity Great British Bake Off Russell Brand pictured with his wife Laura Gallacher One accuser, Alice (pictured), alleges that Russell Brand sexually assaulted her when she was 16 years old. She claims he would send a car to pick her up secondary school lessons, which she has since claimed was a 'BBC car' The comedian released a video last week refuting all the allegations against him. Pictured: Brand leaving the Troubabour Wembley Park theatre after a gig on Saturday night The BBC is now also facing 'urgent questions' after it was claimed that Brand, 48, used his company-provided car service to pick the girl up from school. It comes as both BBC and Channel 4 have launched internal investigations into separate accusations of predatory behaviour by Brand towards staff and audience members during the time of his employment. Channel 4 has since removed all programmes linked to Brand from its website, including episodes of The Great British Bake Off and Big Brother's Big Mouth in which he was featured, The Daily Telegraph reported. Netflix has since been urged to remove his comedy special, titled Re:Birth, from its streaming catalogue. The maverick actor and stand-up comic has strenuously denied any wrongdoing and blamed the mainstream media for the litany of astonishing rather baroque attacks. BBC chiefs scrambled to investigate Brand last night after the comedian was accused of rape. Their probe was announced minutes before Scotland Yard piled on the pressure by announcing that detectives would like to speak to the comedians alleged victims. Brand, a former star of the BBC and Channel 4, faces bombshell claims from women alleging sexual assaults, abuse and predatory behaviour including one who was a 16-year-old schoolgirl. Russell Brand pictured leaving the Troubabour Wembley Park theatre on Saturday night after allegations about the comic broke But the claims from one businesswoman who alleged Brand raped her when she refused a threesome and another who said she was 16 when he choked her during a sexual act, prompted a firestorm yesterday. Among the complaints raised in the investigation were allegations by a woman, referred to as Alice to protect her identity, who claims she was sexually assaulted by Brand as a 16-year-old. She alleges he was 'preoccupied' with her being 'innocent and pure', and often referred to her as 'The Child'. Alice described his behaviour towards her as 'grooming' as Brand would allegedly provide her with scripts on how to deceive her parents into allowing her to visit him. She also claimed he would send his 'BBC car' to her secondary school to pick her up. 'The first time I used it, he told me it was booked to take him to his radio show but he had a friend taking him instead so I should use that car,' she told The Times. She claimed the chauffeur once took her from Brand's home to her grandmother's house and that on a separate occasion the same car 'picked me up from school'. Alice added: 'It was the same car...I knew that that was a BBC car.' The BBC did not initially commit to an inquiry but amid the growing outcry, it shifted its position last night and a spokesman said it was urgently looking into the issues. In a statement, a BBC spokesman said: 'The documentary and associated reports contained serious allegations, spanning a number of years. 'Russell Brand worked on BBC radio programmes between 2006 and 2008 and we are urgently looking into the issues raised.' The broadcaster yesterday launched an internal investigation into what was known about Brand's alleged behaviour following claims that at least one senior executive was aware of complaints against the comedian and seemingly dismissed them. The five US prisoners released by Iran today as part of a controversial prisoner swap have arrived in Doha to begin their journey back to America, where one says he is eager to visit an Apple store to find out what the latest phones are after eight years behind bars. The prisoners were flown first from Tehran to Doha on a Qatar Airways jet today. They were greeted on the tarmac at Doha Airport by the US Ambassador to Qatar, Timmy Davis. The price of their freedom was $6billion in frozen funds that the US seized from Iran in 2018, and now claims will be used for humanitarian purposes only, along with five Iranians who were in US custody but are now free. Of those five men, only two have returned to Iran. Two say they will stay in the US, despite being convicted of acting against America on behalf of Iran, and one has been allowed to flee to another country. President Biden and his administration have been slammed for the deal, which critics say is another example of the US overpaying in foreign diplomacy. Only three of the five released US prisoners have been named publicly. Morad Tahbaz (second from left), Siamak Namazi (center), Emad Shargi (second from right) stand alongside two other, unidentified prisoners (female, far left and male, far right) as they are welcomed in Doha by Swiss officials before beginning their journey home Siamak Namazi waves as he disembarks a Qatar Airways charter flight from Tehran to Doha this morning after spending eight years in Iranian prison on what the Biden administration says are bogus spying charges. In front of him are Morad Tahbaz (bottom right) and Emad Shargi (left) Siamak Namazi , 51, (top right), and Emad Shargi, 59, (bottom left) and Morad Tahbaz, 67, (center) arrive in Doha today after being freed by Iranian officials. They had been on house arrest for a month and spent years in prison before that after being convicted of spyin gkn Namazi (left) and Tahbaz (right) are welcomed on the tarmac after touching down in Doha The three released prisoners walked arm-in-arm into Doha Airport today They are businessmen Siamak Namazi , 51, and Emad Shargi, 59, and Morad Tahbaz, 67, an environmentalist who also holds British citizenship. The other two prisoners - a man and a woman - have requested anonymity, according to a statement released by President Biden this morning, but they were seen being comforted by Davis on the tarmac at Doha. The five US prisoners were accompanied on their first flight by the Swiss Ambassador to Iran. All had been imprisoned in Iran on what the Biden administration says are unsubstantiated spying charges. In a statement released by his attorney today after his release, Namazi - who had been in prison for eight years - thanked Biden for putting 'the lives of American citizens above politics'. He said one of his 'urgent needs' is to buy a phone and learn about how technology has advanced in the last eight years. 'I am dying to find out what gadgets now exist when I was taken hostage, the iPhone 6S had just come out. 'You cannot imagine what an eight-year itch feels like,' he said. At a press conference this afternoon, Antony Blinken defended the deal and said the US would have 'absolute control' over the money that was released. He insisted that it could only be used for humanitarian goods, but critics say it will be impossible to police While they celebrate their newfound freedom, Republicans are lining up to slam the deal, that included the release of five Iranians from US custody - including two who now say they will stay in the US. Among the Iranian prisoners is Reza Sarhangpour-Kafrani, a dual US-Iranian citizen who was jailed in February for supplying the Central Bank of Tehran with computer equipment and technology through a front company in the UAE, and, who was caught obtaining equipment that could be used in missiles and electronic warfare. The deal has been widely criticized by Republicans who say Biden is paying ransom to terrorists by releasing the men and the funds, which were frozen in South Korea in 2018 by President Donald Trump. FREED BY USA: Mehrdad Ansari, who was convicted of supplying Iran with materials to be used in missiles, and Reza Sarhangpour, who was convicted of assisting the Central Bank of Iran by supplying it with computer equipment and software, are among those being freed by the US FREED BY USA: Kambiz Attar-Kashani, Kaveh Afrasuabi and Amin Hasanzadeh were all released by the US as part of the deal. Their convictions include failing to register as a foreign agent on Iran's behalf while lobbying US officials on nuclear policy (center, Afrasuabi), stealing engineering plans from bosses in the US to give to Iran (Hasanzadeh) and purchasing 'sophisticated' U.S. electronic equipment and software' through front companies in the UAE for Iran The Biden administration insists there are 'guardrails' on what Iran can spend the money on, but critics are now demanding to know how he or his administration will police how it is used. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi however said this week that Iran would decide how the money would be spent. THE FIVE IRANIANS BEING RELEASED AS PART OF BIDEN DEAL Kaveh Lotfolah Afrasiabi Iranian charged in 2021 with allegedly failing to register as a foreign agent on Iran's behalf while lobbying U.S. officials on issues like nuclear policy Mehrdad Ansari Iranian sentenced to 63 months in prison in 2021 for obtaining equipment that could be used in missiles, electronic warfare, nuclear weapons and other military gear Amin Hasanzadeh An Iranian and permanent resident of the United States whom prosecutors charged in 2019 with allegedly stealing engineering plans from his employer to send to Iran Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani Charged in 2021 over allegedly unlawfully exporting laboratory equipment to Iran; and Kambiz Attar Kashani Sentenced in February to 30 months in prison for purchasing 'sophisticated, top-tier U.S. electronic equipment and software' through front companies in the United Arab Emirates Advertisement Trump was among the first to criticize the agreement when details of it became public on 9/11, an ill-timed announcement that was widely panned. Namazi had been in prison since 2015, when he was arrested during a business trip and convicted of cooperating with a hostile government - the US. Shargi was arrested with his wife in 2018 on unsubstantiated espionage charges. She was later allowed to return to the US. Tahbaz was also convicted of spying charges. He was left out of a previous prisoner swap brokered by former British Prime Minister Liz Truss. But they remain deeply divided on other issues ranging from Iran's nuclear program and its influence around the region to U.S. sanctions and America's military presence in the Gulf. Qatar, a tiny but hugely wealthy Gulf Arab energy producer, has sought to raise its global profile, hosting the soccer World Cup last year and carving out a role in international diplomacy. The Sunni Muslim nation hosts a big U.S. military base but has also forged close ties with Shi'ite Muslim Iran. Doha hosted at least eight rounds of talks with Iranian and U.S. negotiators sitting in separate hotels, speaking via shuttle diplomacy, a source previously told Reuters. Under the agreement, Doha agreed to monitor how Iran spends the unfrozen funds to ensure the cash is spent on humanitarian goods, such as food and medicine, and not any items under U.S. sanctions. The transfer of Iran's funds has drawn criticism from U.S. Republicans who say President Joe Biden, a Democrat, is in effect paying a ransom for U.S. citizens. The White House has defended the deal. In a statement today, President Biden said: 'Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home. 'And as we welcome home our fellow citizens, I once more remind all Americans of the serious risks of traveling to Iran. American passport holders should not travel there. 'Reuniting wrongfully detained Americans with their loved ones has been a priority for my Administration since day one.' A view of the entrance of Evin prison in Tehran, Iran, where the Americans were held Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said: 'From day one of this Administration, the President and I have made clear that we have no higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens at home and abroad. 'Under President Bidens leadership, we have now secured the release of more than 30 wrongfully detained Americans around the world. I am grateful to everyone from the State Department and across the government who worked tirelessly to bring home our U.S. citizens. 'We will not rest until we have brought home every wrongfully detained American.' Ties between Washington and Tehran have been boiling since Donald Trump, a Republican, pulled the U.S. out of a nuclear deal between Iran and global powers when he was president in 2018. Reaching another nuclear deal has gained little traction since, as Biden prepares for the 2024 U.S. election. As a first step in the deal, Washington waived sanctions to allow the transfer of $6 billion in Iranian funds from South Korea to Qatar. The funds were blocked in South Korea, normally one of Iran's largest oil customers, when Washington imposed sweeping financial sanctions on Tehran and the cash could not be transferred. British comedian Russell Brand could face prosecution in the US because of a key change in California's statute of limitations for rape seven years ago. The former BBC and Channel 4 star is facing bombshell claims of rape, sexual assaults and emotional abuse from four women including one who alleged he raped her in his Los Angeles home when she refused a threesome in 2012. The businesswoman, whose allegations were revealed in a joint investigation by The Times, The Sunday Times and Channel 4 dispatches, alleges that the comedian, 48, raped her against a wall after she told him multiple times to 'get off'. The alleged victim, who The Times are calling Nadia, was treated at a rape crisis centre on the same day, according to medical records seen by the publication. The notes state that a Los Angeles Police Department officer was alerted. Brand - who denies all allegations and has today been defended by his father - would previously have been protected in the US because the alleged rape was more than ten years ago but he could now face prosecution if police investigate. In September 2016, California lawmakers approved a new bill, SB813, to eliminate the state's 10-year limit on filing rape and related charges after dozens of women accused disgraced comedian Bill Cosby of sexually assaulting them. British comedian Russell Brand (pictured) could face justice in the US because of a key change in the statute of limitations seven years ago Screen grab taken from Channel 4 Dispatches trailer of Nadia - or an actress playing Nadia - speaking about her harrowing experience of allegedly being raped in LA by Brand The businesswoman said she met up with Brand at his LA house where he pushed her against a wall and raped her. Brand could face justice in the US due to a law change in 2016. (Screen grab taken from Channel 4 Dispatches trailer) Extracts from Nadia's medical records obtained by The Times, Sunday Times and Channel 4 Dispatches The alleged rape victim claims she exchanged numbers with Brand at a party before being invited to his house in June 2012 where they went on to have consensual sex. The woman, who was in her 30s at the time, met up with Brand again at his house on the morning of July 1, during which she alleges that the comedian raped her. Text messages from a number - that The Times says it has verified was Brand's at the time - show that he messaged her that same morning at 3.29am, saying 'I'm sorry, that was crazy and selfish'. Extracts from Nadia's medical notes The following extracts from Nadia's medical notes were obtained by The Times: Victim declined to make a report to law enforcement, but LAPD West Hollywood Division Officer [name redacted] was contacted and alerted that the victim was at the RTC reporting a sexual assault. Victim presented as friendly and engaging, but intermittently tearful and seemingly overwhelmed. Victim's primary concern while at the RTC was protecting her reputation as she was worried that, if her assailant's name was somehow released, then her name will be dragged through the dirt'. ...doing the closing ceremony at the Olympics... when unfortunately it came on the TV and she had to be subjected to his singing for a period of time. [Name redacted] stated that she becomes very angry when the public is 'adoring' him, wanting to shout out that he is a rapist. 'After she refused, the assailant repeated, 'I'm not going to hurt you' and started kissing the victim again. Per victim, she attempted to leave his home, but he would not allow her to do so as he was blocking the door.' 'She is often triggered as she sees assailant on TV and on billboards.' Advertisement She said she got into the shower after arriving home and felt unable to move and could not sleep. She did not reply to Brand's text until 10.59am where she said: 'You scared the s*** out of me. You're right I am a lovely person and for you to take advantage of me like that in unexpectable [sic].' Brand replied that he was 'very sorry and embarrassed'. Nadia did not report the alleged rape to police at the time but she gave her underwear and other samples as evidence, which were frozen. She also received therapy sessions at the UCLA Santa Monica Medical Centres Rape Treatment Center for the following five months. Notes obtained by The Times show that Nadia was described as 'friendly and engaging, but intermittently tearful and seemingly overwhelmed' when she was first seen. 'The victim's primary concern while at the RTC was protecting her reputation as she was worried that, if her assailant's name was somehow released, then her name will be dragged through the dirt', the notes said. Nadia said she was relieved that other women's allegations were being heard. She told The Times: 'I'm super-proud of all the women who have come forward. I know how hard it is - thinking "I'm the only one" and "Who is going to believe me". 'It was all very hard to read and to watch but I think it's very necessary - because he needs to be stopped.' Nadia added that he 'cannot hurt me any more' and said she hopes that he will 'not hurt anybody else'. The bombshell allegation is one of a number of those which are claimed to have taken place between 2006 and 2013. One woman has claimed she was sexually assaulted by Brand during a three-month relationship with him when she was 16 and still at school. The BBC is now also facing 'urgent questions' after it was claimed that Brand used his company-provided car service to pick the girl up from school. Both the BBC and Channel 4 have launched internal investigations into separate accusations of predatory behaviour by Brand towards staff and audience members during the time of his employment. Russell Brand is seen posing with Burlesque dancers Vanessa and Valeria at The Brit Awards 2007 Valentine's Day photocall, Earls Court, London, on 13 Feb 2007 Russell Brand on Big Brother's Little Brother on May 31, 2006. Brand presented Big Brother's Big Mouth for three years before choosing not to return for the eighth series of the show Former spouse Katy Perry and Russell Brand attend the 82nd Annual Academy Awards in LA on March 7, 2010 Channel 4 has since removed all programmes linked to Brand from its website, including episodes of The Great British Bake Off and Big Brother's Big Mouth in which he was featured, The Daily Telegraph reported. Netflix has since been urged to remove his comedy special, titled Re:Birth, from its streaming catalogue. The maverick actor and stand-up comic has strenuously denied any wrongdoing and blamed the 'mainstream media' for the 'litany of astonishing rather baroque attacks'. Brand was dropped by a charity working to end violence against women in light of the accusations. However, he has received support from some public figures, with the likes of Elon Musk, Andrew Tate and Laurence Fox all appearing to back the comedian as he claimed to be the victim of a 'co-ordinated media attack'. The comedian's father Ron Brand, 80, also defended his son today against claims he abused women for years, calling them 'unproven'. He claimed that dark forces including the BBC are pursuing a 'vendetta' against him, as more women came forward to accuse him of abuse. He said: 'Is this seriously the most important thing happening in this world? Immigrants? Cost of living? 10s of thousands killed in Ukraine? Who is prioritising at BBC News. Who is really driving this vendetta?'. He added: 'With many struggling to pay bills. The unproven accusations of 15 years ago take lead on BBC News?'. It comes after The Times and Sunday Times claimed several more women have come forward with undisclosed and untested allegations about Brand's behaviour during the early 2000s. They say the allegations have not been investigated, but will now be 'rigorously checked'. The Metropolitan Police has responded to accusations against Brand by encouraging any victims to come forward. A spokesperson for the force said: 'We are aware of media reporting of a series of allegations of sexual assault. At this time, we have not received any reports in relation to this. Brand (pictured in 2008) said that during his 'time of promiscuity, the relationships I had were absolutely always consensual' and that he was 'always transparent about that' Russell Brand pictured on Saturday evening leaving the Troubabour Wembley Park theatre in north-west London after performing a comedy set 'If anyone believes they have been the victim of a sexual assault, no matter how long ago it happened, we would encourage them to contact police. 'We spoke with The Sunday Times on Saturday 16 September. We will be making further approaches to The Sunday Times and Channel 4 to ensure that any victims of crime who they have spoken with are aware of how they may report any criminal allegations to police.' Among the other complaints raised in the investigation were allegations by a woman, referred to as Alice to protect her identity, who claims she was sexually assaulted by Brand as a 16-year-old. She alleges Brand was 'preoccupied' with her being 'innocent and pure', and often referred to her as 'The Child'. Alice described his behaviour towards her as 'grooming' as Brand would allegedly provide her with scripts on how to deceive her parents into allowing her to visit him. She also claimed he would send his 'BBC car' to her secondary school to pick her up. 'The first time I used it, he told me it was booked to take him to his radio show but he had a friend taking him instead so I should use that car,' she told The Times. She claimed the chauffeur once took her from Brand's home to her grandmother's house and that on a separate occasion the same car 'picked me up from school'. Alice added: 'It was the same car...I knew that that was a BBC car.' The BBC did not initially commit to an inquiry but amid the growing outcry, it shifted its position last night and a spokesman said it was urgently looking into the issues. In a statement, a BBC spokesman said: 'The documentary and associated reports contained serious allegations, spanning a number of years. 'Russell Brand worked on BBC radio programmes between 2006 and 2008 and we are urgently looking into the issues raised.' The US has seen more than 500 mass shootings this year, data shows, making it the third year in a row the country has hit the somber milestone before October. A shooting on Saturday night in Denver which saw five people injured meant the tally surpassed 500, according to the Gun Violence Archive. The rise in gun violence is part of a chilling trend - go back just five years and the country had never experienced more than 500 shootings in a year, according to the research group. The deadliest shooting this year was the Monterey Park, CA, attack in January, in which gunman Huu Can Tran, 72, killed eleven people and injured nine in a predominantly Asian area on the eve of Lunar New Year. Gun violence at a Sweet 16 birthday party in Dadeville, AL, also shocked the nation, with four young people murdered and 32 injured - the most casualties of any shooting so far in 2023. A bloody handprint marks a pillar the day after a shooting at a during a teenager's birthday party at Mahogany Masterpiece Dance Studio in Dadeville, Alabama Children hold hands as they leave The Covenant School in Nashville, Tennessee, following the deadliest school shooting of 2023 Gun Violence Archive, the independent organization which collects the data, defines a mass shooting as one in which four or more people were shot or killed, excluding the shooter. Last month, a gunman opened fire at a historic biker bar in Trabuco Canyon in Orange County, CA, murdering three and injuring six before he was shot by police. In another incident, eight people were killed during a shooting back in January 4 in Cedar City, Utah, with Michael Haight killing his wife, their five children and his mother-in-law before turning the gun on himself. School shootings are also on the rise, if the current continues as expected this year, with a staggering 236 incidents recorded by another research team, the K-12 School Shooting database. The deadliest school shooting this year saw six murdered and six injured by transgender shooter Audrey Hale, who opened fire on March 27. Three nine-year-old students and three adults were among those murdered during the attack on Nashville Christian school The Covenant. The latest shootings this weekend have seen the number of shootings rise to 502. The 500 mark was passed late on Saturday night in Denver Then, around 1am on Sunday, a shooting in El Paso, Texas, saw a 19-year-old man killed and five others injured. On Sunday night, a shooting in Dorchester, MA, saw five people critically injured including a child who suffered life-threatening injuries, Boston Police said. The Lai Lai Ballroom and Studio near the site of a deadly shooting on Saturday The incident occurred at Cook's Corner, a bar in Trabuco Canyon, California, Wednesday night around 7:30 pm The FBI defines a mass shooting as 'one or more individuals actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated area' - a different metric to most organizations who consider the number of victims to define it as such. There are about 120 guns for every 100 Americans, according to the Switzerland-based Small Arms Survey. No other nation has more civilian guns than people, with around 44 percent of US adults living in a household with a gun. Around one third own one personally, according to a November 2020 Gallup survey. A third of US adults believe that there would be less crime if more people owned guns. Fears of gun violence have eclipsed other concerns, data from earlier this year shows A girl runs as other shoppers leave with their hands up after police responded to a gunman who shot and killed eight people and wounded at least seven others at Allen Premium Outlets mall north of Dallas, Texas However multiple studies show that where people have easy access to firearms then gun-related deaths are more frequent including suicide, homicide and unintentional injuries. Mass shootings also drive a demand for more guns, with many Americans feeling they are 'safer' if they personally own a weapon. The rate of gun violence is eight times greater than in Canada, which has the seventh-highest rate of gun ownership in the world. Culture, Media and Sport Committee chairwoman said the group will be looking for the same 'reassurance' from the BBC which has been provided by Channel 4 in relation to the circumstances surrounding the allegations faced by Russell Brand. Ms Dinenage told the BBC's PM programme the committee would be examining 'who knew what and when, and the extent to which any reports that happened at the time were investigated'. She said: 'What's concerned me most has been the reaction across media and social media from the number of people that are saying 'this is shocking but not surprising', talking about open secrets and how this was, people were turning a blind eye, and that's what does worry me and I think that's what my committee will be looking at. 'The extent to which any of these really powerful and influential TV talent are able to be able to use that, exploit that enormous power and infleucne to potentially damage the live and careers of other people.' by Chris Hedges We came, we saw, he died, Hillary Clinton famously quipped when Muammar Gaddafi, after seven months of U.S. and NATO bombing, was overthrown in 2011 and killed by a mob who sodomized him with a bayonet. But Gaddafi would not be the only one to die. Libya, once the most prosperous and one of the most stable countries in Africa, a country with free healthcare and education, the right for all citizens to a home, subsidized electricity, water and gasoline, along with the lowest infant mortality rate and highest life expectancy on the continent, along with one of the highest literacy rates, swiftly fragmented into warring factions. There are currently two rival regimes battling for control in Libya, along with an array of rogue militias. This aerial photo taken on Sept. 15, 2023 shows a gap cutting the highway between Derna City and Sousse City in east Libya. The gap was originally linked with a bridge that was destroyed in recent heavy floods. (Photo by Ibrahim Hadia al-Majbri/Xinhua) The chaos that followed Western intervention saw weapons from the countrys arsenals flood the black market, with many snatched up by groups such as the Islamic State. Civil society ceased to function. Journalists captured images of migrants from Nigeria, Senegal and Eritrea being beaten and sold as slaves to work in fields or on construction sites. Libyas infrastructure, including its electrical grids, aquifers, oil fields and dams, fell into disrepair. And when the torrential rains from Storm Daniel the climate crisis being another gift to Africa from the industrialized world overwhelmed two decrepit dams, walls of water 20 feet high raced down to flood the port of Derna and Benghazi, leaving up to 20,000 dead according to Abdulmenam Al-Gaiti, Mayor of Derna, and some 10,000 missing. The fragmentation of the countrys disaster management and disaster response mechanisms, as well as deteriorating infrastructure, exacerbated the enormity of the challenges. The political situation is a driver of risk, said Professor Petteri Taalas, Secretary General of the World Meteorological Organization. Taalas told reporters last Thursday that most of the human casualties would have been avoided if there had been a normally operating meteorological service which would have issued the [necessary] warnings and also the emergency management of this would have been able to carry out evacuations of the people. Western regime-change, carried out in the name of human rights under the doctrine of R2P (Responsibility to Protect), destroyed Libya as it did Iraq as a unified and stable nation. The flood victims are part of the tens of thousands of Libyan dead resulting from our humanitarian intervention, which rendered disaster relief non-existent. We bear responsibility for Libyas prolonged suffering. But once we wreak havoc on a country in the name of saving its persecuted regardless of whether they are being persecuted or not we forget they exist. Karl Popper in The Open Society and Its Enemies warned against utopian engineering, massive social transformations, almost always implanted by force, and led by those who believe they are endowed with a revealed truth. These utopian engineers carry out the wholesale destruction of systems, institutions and social and cultural structures in a vain effort to achieve their vision. In the process, they dismantle the self-correcting mechanisms of incremental and piecemeal reform that are impediments to that grand vision. History is replete with murderous utopian social engineering the Jacobins, the communists, the fascists and now, in our own age, the globalists, or neoliberal imperialists. Libya, like Iraq and Afghanistan, fell victim to the self-delusions peddled by humanitarian interventionists Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, Ben Rhodes, Samantha Power and Susan Rice. The Obama administration armed and backed an insurgent force that they believed would do the bidding of the U.S. Obama in a recent post urged people to support aid agencies to alleviate the suffering of the people of Libya, a plea that ignited an understandable backlash on social media. There is no official tally of the casualties in Libya that have resulted directly and indirectly from the violence in Libya over the last 12 years. This is exacerbated by the fact that NATO failed to investigate casualties resulting from its seven month bombardment of the country in 2011. But the total figure of those killed and injured is likely in the tens of thousands. Action on Armed Violence recorded 8,518 deaths and injuries from explosive violence in Libya from 2011 to 2020, 6,027 of which were civilian casualties. In 2020, a statement published by seven U.N. agencies reported that Close to 400,000 Libyans have been displaced since the start of the conflict nine years ago around half of them within the past year, since the attack on the capital, Tripoli, [by Field Marshal Khalifa Belqasim Haftars forces] started. The Libyan economy has been battered by the [civil war], the COVID-19 pandemic, and Russias invasion of Ukraine, the World Bank reported in April of this year. The countrys fragility is having far-reaching economic and social impact. GDP per capita declined by 50 percent between 2011 and 2020 while it could have increased by 68 percent if the economy had followed its pre-conflict trend, the report says. This suggests that Libyas income per capita could have been 118 percent higher without the conflict. Economic growth in 2022 remained low and volatile due to conflict-related disruptions in oil production. Amnesty Internationals 2022 Libya report also makes for grim reading. Militias, armed groups and security forces continued to arbitrarily detain thousands of people, it says. Scores of protesters, lawyers, journalists, critics and activists were rounded up and subjected to torture and other ill-treatment, enforced disappearances and forced confessions on camera. Amnesty describes a country where militias operate with impunity, human rights abuses, including kidnappings and sexual violence, are widespread. It adds that EU-backed Libyan coastguards and the Stability Support Authority militia intercepted thousands of refugees and migrants at sea and forcibly returned them to detention in Libya. Detained migrants and refugees were subjected to torture, unlawful killings, sexual violence and forced labour. Reports by the U.N. Support Mission to Libya (UNSMIL) are no less dire. Stockpiles of weapons and ammunition estimated to be between 150,000 and 200,000 tons were looted from Libya with many being trafficked to neighboring states. In Mali, weapons from Libya fuelled a dormant insurgency by the Tuareg, destabilizing the country. It ultimately led to a military coup and a jihadist insurgency which supplanted the Tuareg, as well as a protracted war between the Malian government and jihadists. This triggered another French military intervention and led to 400,000 people being displaced. Weapons and ammunition from Libya also made their way into other parts of the Sahel including Chad, Niger, Nigeria and Burkina Faso. The misery and carnage, which rippled out from a dismembered Libya, was unleashed in the name of democratization, nation-building, promoting the rule of law and human rights. The pretext for the assault was that Gaddafi was about to launch a military operation to massacre civilians in Benghazi where rebellious forces had seized power. It had as much substance as the charge that Saddam Hussein had weapons of mass destruction, another example of utopian social engineering that left over a million Iraqi dead and millions more driven from their homes. Gaddafi who I interviewed for two hours in April 1995 near the gutted remains of his home that was bombed by U.S. warplanes in 1986 and Hussein were targeted not because of what they did to their own people, although both could be brutal. They were targeted because their nations had large oil reserves and were independent of Western control. They renegotiated more favorable contracts for their nations with Western oil producers and awarded oil contracts to China and Russia. Gaddafi also gave the Russian fleet access to the port of Benghazi. Hillary Clintons emails, obtained via a freedom of information request and published by WikiLeaks, also expose Frances concerns about Gaddafis efforts to provide Francophone African Countries with an alternative to the French Fran (CFA). Sidney Blumenthal, a longtime adviser to Clinton, reported on his conversations with French intelligence officers about the motivations of French President Nicholas Sarkozy, the chief architect of the attack on Libya. Blumenthal writes that the French president seeks a greater share of Libyan oil, increased French influence in the region, an improvement in his domestic political standing, a reassertion of French military power and an end to Gaddafis attempts to supplant French influence in Francophone Africa. Sarkozy, who has been convicted on two separate cases of corruption and breach of campaign finance laws, faces a historic trial in 2025 for allegedly receiving millions of euros in secret illegal campaign contributions from Gadaffi, to assist with his successful 2007 presidential bid. These were the real crimes in Libya. But the real crimes always remain hidden, papered over by florid rhetoric about democracy and human rights. The American experiment, built on slavery, began with a genocidal campaign against Native Americans that was exported to the Philippines and, later, nations such as Vietnam. The narratives we tell ourselves about World War II, largely to justify our right to intervene around the globe, are a lie. It was the Soviet Union that destroyed the German army long before we landed at Normandy. We firebombed cities in Germany and Japan killing hundreds of thousands of civilians. The war in the South Pacific, where one of my uncles fought, was bestial, characterized by rabid racism, mutilation, torture and the routine execution of prisoners. The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were egregious war crimes. The U.S. routinely destroys democracies that nationalize U.S. and European corporations as in Chile, Iran and Guatemala, replacing them with repressive military regimes. Washington supported the genocides in Guatemala and East Timor. It embraces the crime of preemptive war. There is little in our history to justify the claim of unique American virtues. The nightmares we orchestrated in Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya are minimized or ignored by the press while the benefits are exaggerated or fabricated. And since the U.S. does not recognize the International Criminal Court, there is no chance of any American leader being held accountable for their crimes. Human rights advocates have become a vital cog in the imperial project. The extension of U.S. power, they argue, is a force for good. This is the thesis of Samantha Powers book A Problem from Hell: America and the Age of Genocide. They champion the R2P doctrine, unanimously adopted in 2005 at the U.N. World Summit. Under this doctrine, states are required to respect the human rights of their citizens. When these rights are violated, then sovereignty is nullified. Outside forces are permitted to intervene. Miguel dEscoto Brockmann, the former president of the U.N. General Assembly, warned in 2009 that R2P could be misused to justify arbitrary and selective interventions against the weakest states. Since the end of the Cold War, the idea of human rights has been made into a justification for intervention by the worlds leading economic and military powers, above all, the United States, in countries that are vulnerable to their attacks, writes Jean Bricmont in Humanitarian Imperialism: Using Human Rights to Sell War. Until the U.S. invasion of Iraq, [a] large part of the left was often complicit in this ideology of intervention, discovering new Hitlers as the need arose, and denouncing antiwar arguments as appeasement on the model of Munich in 1938. The creed of humanitarian intervention is selective. Compassion is extended to worthy victims while unworthy victims are ignored. Military intervention is good for Iraqis, Afghans or Libyans, but not for Palestinians or Yeminis. Human rights are supposedly sacrosanct when discussing Cuba, Venezuela and Iran, but irrelevant in our offshore penal colonies, the worlds largest open air prison in Gaza or our drone-infested war zones. The persecution of dissidents and journalists is a crime in China or Russia, but not when the targets are Julian Assange and Edward Snowden. Utopian social engineering is always catastrophic. It creates power vacuums that augment the suffering of those the utopianists claim to protect. The moral bankruptcy of the liberal class, which I chronicle in Death of the Liberal Class, is complete. Liberals have prostituted their supposed values to the Empire. Incapable of taking responsibility for the carnage they inflict, they clamor for more destruction and death to save the world. Chris Hedges is an author, lecturer, professor, a TV host, and Presbyterian minister. Is is the recipient of the Pulitzer prize award. He has published numerous books including War Is a Force That Gives Us Meaning (2002), a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award for Nonfiction; Empire of Illusion: The End of Literacy and the Triumph of Spectacle (2009); Death of the Liberal Class (2010); Days of Destruction, Days of Revolt (2012). He has taught at Columbia University, New York University, the University of Toronto and Princeton University Netflix's new true-crime documentary will delve into the unsolved murder of journalist Jill Dando, who was shot dead on her doorstep in Fulham in 1999. The Somerset-born journalist landed her first job in her hometown Weston-super-Mare and was best known for presenting BBC programmes, including Crimewatch, Breakfast Time and the Six O'clock News. Directed by four time BAFTA nominee Marcus Plowright, the upcoming documentary revisits the unsolved case almost 25 years later. The three-part series 'Who Killed Jill Dando?' is set to release on September 26, and explores the events leading up to her death, hoping to unveil some fresh information. When Dando was murdered, she was engaged to gynaecologist-surgeon Alan Farthing. But who is Alan Farthing? Here is everything you need to know about the doctor ahead of the new Netflix documentary. At the time of her death, Jill Dando was engaged to gynaecologist-surgeon Alan Farthing (pictured together), here is everything you need to know about the doctor ahead of Netlfix's true crime documentary The three-part series 'Who Killed Jill Dando?' is set to release on September 26, and delves into the unsolved case Who is Jill Dando's former fiance Alan Farthing? Alan Farthing was born on June 8, 1963, in Winchester, Hampshire. According to his biography on King Edward VII's Hospital website, he is a gynaecologist who specialises in complex surgery. Farthing qualified as a doctor in 1986 from George's Hospital Medical School and worked at Guys, Hammersmith and St Mary's Hospital before training in Perth and Sydney, Australia. Farthing was one of the pioneers in using laparoscopic surgery to treat cancer patients, and many of his patients have been referred by other gynaecologists' because of his surgical expertise, according to the hospital website. Now, Farthing is the Head of Department at the Gynaecological Cancer at Imperial College Hospitals NHS Trust and has a private practice on Harley Street He is a part-time consultant at Queen Charlotte's Hospital in West London and a regular consultant at St Mary's Hospital, where Kate Middleton gave birth to her three children. According to the King Edward VII Hospital website, Alan Farthing is a gynaecologist who specialises in complex surgery Farthing is the Head of Department at the Gynaecological Cancer at Imperial College Hospitals NHS Trust and has a private practice on Harley Street Did Alan Farthing work for Queen Elizabeth II? Does he work for the Royal family? READ MORE: Barry George visits his sister who lives in Ireland 15 years after being acquitted of Jill Dando's murder Advertisement Farthing was the late Queen Elizabeth II's surgeon-gynaecologist, who was appointed to assist and succeed her previous surgeon-gynaecologist Sir Marcus Setchell in 2008, who was retiring from the NHS. Setchell assisted with the Duchess of Cornwall's hysterectomy, and assisted in the delivery of the Earl and Countess of Wessex's two children Lady Louise Windsor and Viscount Severn. Setchell retired from his position in 2013 and Farthing took over the role, assisting other members of the Royal Family. In June, Farthing was appointed Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO) in the 2023 Birthday Honours for services to the Royal Household. What was Alan Farthing's role during Kate Middleton's births? Alan was part of the medical team that oversaw Kate Middleton's three children. For the birth of Prince George in 2013, he was joined by Sir Marcus Setchell and obstetrician Guy Thorpe-Beeston at the Lindo Wing of St Mary's Hospital. In 2015, at the birth of Princess Charlotte, Setchell had already retired and Farthing had taken over his role. He and Thorpe-Beeston worked together for the delivery and reunited three years later for the birth of Prince Louis. However, the princess had a team of more than 20 medical experts on standby in case of emergency. Farthing was the late Queen Elizabeth II's surgeon gynaecologists' and has assisted other members of the Royal Family, including the births of Kate Middleton's three children What was Jill Dando's relationship with Alan Farthing? Farthing met Dando through a mutual friend in 1997, after splitting from his wife. The two became engaged in January 1999. Dando had left Farthing's home in Chiswick on the morning of her death, returning alone by car to the house she owned in Fulham. She was killed on April 26, 1999 and the two were set to marry that September. In an interview with the BBC following Dando's death, Alan said he was 'devastated.' 'I cannot believe what has happened, I cannot understand what has happened, I do not think for one moment what could go through somebody's mind when they do such a thing to a beautiful, caring and well-meaning person,' he said. What happened to Jill Dando? Dando was shot and killed by a single bullet in the head as she reached her front door in Fulham at approximately 11:32am. She is thought to have died instantly. Her body was discovered by a neighbour 14 minutes later with her keys still in her hand. They reported seeing a man, described to be tall and aged 40, walking away from the scene. Which is thought to be the only sighting of the alleged killer. She was taken to Charing Cross Hospital where she was pronounced dead on arrival at 1:03pm. Dando's death became one of Britain's most notorious unsolved murders and sparked one of the biggest police investigations of all time. The investigation saw 1,393 potential suspects, 500 hours of CCTV footage, a 250,000 reward and the quashed conviction of Barry George, who spent seven years in prison for the murder but was released after a second trial in 2008. The upcoming documentary takes a 'fresh look' at the unsolved murder of Jill Dando - the 'golden girl' of British television When does 'Who Killed Jill Dando?' air? Almost 25 years after her death, a new true crime series will air, the day after Dando and Farthing's intended wedding date. Netflix has described the upcoming documentary series as: 'A fresh look at the mystery surrounding the death of "the golden girl of British television" While Dando's brother, Nigel Dando, now 71, initially thought his sister's killer would be quickly found, still, decades later, the case remains unsolved. The retired journalist is interviewed in the new series, and says he hopes its release will lead to fresh information about the murder. The three-part series will be available to stream on September 26, 2023. A winemaker has been found dead face down in a huge vat of prosecco after he passed out from toxic fermentation gas while rescuing a workmate. Heroic Marco Bettolini leapt into the tank when he saw co-worker Alberto Pin had fainted at the Ca' di Rajo winery in the province of Treviso, in the Italian region Veneto, on Thursday last week. But Mr Bettolini was also quickly overcome by the same fumes and collapsed in the tank after rescuing his pal, local media reported. Both winemakers fell into the vat but only Mr Bettolini died. He was reportedly found dead at the bottom of the tank while Mr Pin was taken to hospital. Toxic fumes like carbon monoxide and nitrogen produced during winemaking can be deadly in enclosed spaces, especially when produced in large quantities. Marco Bettolini (pictured), an Italian winemaker, allegedly drowned in a vat of wine falling into the fermenting brew while trying to save a colleague Heroic Marco Bettolini (pictured) leapt into the tank when he saw co-worker Alberto Pin had fainted at the Ca' di Rajo winery in the Province of Treviso Neither man had been wearing an oxygen tank and respirator as the time of the incident, it emerged. Accident investigators believe Pin had entered the tank when he spotted a fault in one of the tank's meters. An autopsy is set to determine whether Bettollini died from drowning or asphyxiation. Wineries generally have necessary ventilation systems that allow the toxic air to escape and prevent any serious incidents. Chief Prosecutor Marco Martani said: 'From the information gathered so far by the police, no one should have entered that vat, as maintenance work is entrusted to an external specialised company equipped with masks and systems that would have prevented the risk of intoxication.' The winery's owner, Simone Cecchetto, expressed their condolences, adding: 'We are devastated by grief; for us, they are like two brothers, two sons. 'My thoughts are only with these young men who grew up with us and their families. We pray that Alberto recovers as soon as possible.' Pin remains in hospital in an intensive care unit. The investigation is ongoing. The local Health Authority is also examining the case. Around 15,000 wheels of cheese collapsed after one shelf started a deadly domino effect in a factory in Lombardy (pictured) Cheesemaker Giacomo Chiapparini leaves behind his wife, two kids and several grandchildren Italy's workers unions have long been questioning safety standards in the food and drink production industry. It comes after the boss of an Italian cheesemaking company was last month crushed to death when 15,000 wheels of cheese buried him in his own factory. Giacomo Chiapparini, 74, was tragically found dead by firefighters after a shelf broke in his factory in the northern Lombardy region in early August and caused a domino effect that brought down a total of 15,000 wheels of Grana Padano. The wheels of Grana Padano cheese, which is very similar to Parmigiano Reggiano, can each weigh up to 40kg. The Welsh Government has come under fire after confirming plans to increase the number of Senedd politicians by a third. The Labour-led administration in Cardiff has unveiled proposed legislation to boost the number of Welsh Parliament members to 96 from the current 60. The Welsh Government, headed by First Minister Mark Drakeford, also wants to ditch the first-past-the-post voting system and single-member constituencies for elections. Instead, there will be 16 enlarged constituencies across Wales - rather than the current 40 constituencies and five regions - with six members elected in each area using the D'Hondt formula. This was the electoral method used by the UK for European Parliament elections before Brexit. Welsh Labour and Plaid Cymru, who have a formal agreement to work together in some areas of government, have been heavily criticised for pushing forward with their plans during the cost-of-living crisis. It has been estimated that increasing the number of Welsh politicians will cost taxpayers an extra 12million a year. The Labour-led administration in Cardiff, headed by First Minister Mark Drakeford, has unveiled proposed legislation to boost the number of Senedd members to 96 from 60 Under the plans there will be 16 enlarged constituencies across Wales, with six Welsh Parliament members elected in each area using the D'Hondt formula Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth, whose party has a formal agreement to work together with Welsh Labour, hailed an 'historic step to strengthen and empower our democracy' Senedd members currently earn a salary of just under 70,000, while they are also given allowances for running an office and for residential accommodation if they live far from Cardiff. Darren Millar, Welsh Conservatives shadow minister for the constitution, said: 'It's disappointing that Welsh Labour ministers continue to press ahead with plans to increase the size of the Senedd at a cost of tens of millions each year while threatening to cut budgets for schools and hospitals. 'Wales needs more doctors, dentists, nurses and teachers, not more politicians. 'The Welsh Government should be focused on addressing unacceptable NHS waiting times, poor standards in schools and the lacklustre performance of the Welsh economy, not wasting time, energy and taxpayers' money developing yet more legislation on Senedd reform.' Mr Drakeford earns 153,033, slightly below that of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, while other senior Welsh Government ministers earn 109,308. The Welsh Government's proposals, which have been published today, also include: Increasing the maximum number of ministers appointed by the party forming the Welsh Government from 12 to 17, and there will be two deputy presiding officers instead of the current one. Instead of five-year terms, MSs will be elected for four-year terms and all candidates will have to live in Wales. Parties will be required to select gender-balanced lists of candidates for the new enlarged Senedd constituencies. If the changes are supported by the Senedd they will be adopted for the next set of Welsh elections in 2026. If the changes are supported by the Senedd they will be adopted for the next set of Welsh elections in 2026 Welsh Labour's Mick Antoniw, the Counsel General, said: 'This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a modern Senedd which truly reflects Wales, and to strengthen our democracy. 'We are creating a more effective Senedd, with a greater ability and capacity to hold the Welsh Government to account. 'This Bill will help ensure the Senedd also reflects the huge changes to Wales' devolution settlement since 1999, including law-making and tax-raising powers. 'Wales is the most under-represented country in the UK the Senedd has the least members of any devolved Parliament in the country and the recent reduction to UK parliamentary seats is the most significant change in a century.' Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth said: 'Twenty-six years ago to the day when the people of Wales voted Yes for devolution, we are taking another historic step to strengthen and empower our democracy. 'A stronger, more representative Senedd, elected through a proportional system, will be better equipped to continue to make a difference to the people of Wales. 'It will ensure fairness, provide better scrutiny and help all of us realise our ambition for Wales and our maturing democracy. 'Once passed, the Senedd Reform Bill will also place Welsh democracy on firmer foundations and bring us closer to the size of the legislatures in Scotland and the north of Ireland. 'This stands in stark contrast to the way in which Wales's representation on a UK level at Westminster is being weakened.' As a self-confessed narcissist, Russell Brand revelled in the attention his more offensive 'comedy' and stunts gathered from his often shocked audiences. But as a disturbing series of allegations about sexual attacks and disgraceful behaviour grow day by day, fans may well be asking if the joke was on them all along. While Brand strenuously denies any illegality or criminal activity, it is unavoidable that his more provocative material is being re-examined with fresh eyes - particularly as his endless public and stage-performed boasts of sex and womanising appear to echo some of the more unpleasant claims being made against him. Here MailOnline looks at his most outlandish appearances and remarks to try and sort fact from fiction. In 2013 Brand chatted with Richard Herring in his theatre podcast in Leicester Square when the comedian admitted he was a 'sex narcissist' Brand has spoken in the past about how his 'sexual endeavours' caused 'all the problems'. Having got clean of drugs after his agent John Noel insisted he went to rehab, his addictive personality turned to sex. He said: 'It's the scale of my sexual endeavours that causes all the problems. I'm a bloke from Grays with a good job and a terrific haircut who's been given a Wonka ticket to a lovely sex factory cos of the ol' fame.' Whilst travelling across the UK in 2006 as part of his Shame tour he spoke about how 'now that I can't do it [drugs] anymore, I like to have it off'. 'Sex is a hobby, I like it,' he said. 'Do you believe there are people trying to spoil that for me now.' The former Big Brother's Big Mouth host pointed to his father Ron Brand's influence for super-charging his 'rapacious' sex addiction. He talked about watching porn movies at his father's house whilst in primary school, and how he lost his virginity aged 17 to a prostitute paid for by Brand Snr while in Hong Kong. In his 2007 memoir, My Booky Wooky, he wrote about how his father had paid for three prostitutes to come back to their hotel: 'My dad set about unwrapping his two prostitutes.' He attempted to impress the remaining one, although he found the 'bedlam' from the neighbouring bed unsettling. Brand is alleged to have asked staff on the Big Brother shows he was hosting to ask female audience members for their numbers. Pictured: Russell Brand hosting Big Brother's Little Brother in May 2006 He adds that 'during the rest of that holiday I f****d loads more prostitutes and never wore a condom it had hardened me my sexuality had morphed forever from bewildered innocence into something more complex and rapacious.' He talks about watching porn videos at his dad's house when he was in primary school. He was precociously interested in women's breasts, and even before he was a teenager would attempt to guess women's cup sizes. He says that as a small child he contrived to watch his Auntie Josie, a friend of his mother, washing her 'glorious breasts' in the bath she had reasoned that he was too young to notice. 'That's it, I thought. Keep washing, after all I'm only a little boy. I really was quite manipulative, even at that early age.' During his Doin' Life stand-up tour in 2007, Brand said: 'I can pretend to be nice for a little of time, you know at the beginning of relationships, pretending to be nice'. He called it the 'n*bstacle course'. He has openly admitted how he has used 'emotional blackmail' to get what he wants from women. 'I was allowed to sleep in her [a girl called Penny's] bed top to toe,' he wrote in his memoir. Speaking about how helping other people gives his life a kernel of truth, Brand said: 'I'm narcissistic and I want to f*** people and I love attention. All them things are true. I've always wanted that, I love showing off.' Brand would later make a crass joke about rape as he discussed how it 'wasn't the extraordinary I'm trying to protect [about myself], it's the mundanity' 'I spun gags and yarns till she let me turn round, I painted verbal pictures and begged until she kissed me, I lied and danced and evoked the spirit of Pan till reluctantly she removed her bra, I used tears and emotional blackmail to secure the immolation of her knickers.' He also grimly recounted how he once broke a sex worker's phone having 'paid a lot of money' for 'half-hearted' sex. 'This girl was a sorry, fair-weather excuse for a prostitute then the phone rings again, and I, and this is the worst act of misogyny I've committed since the spitting debacle, took the phone out of her hand and threw it at the wall,' he wrote. Another time he told of how Michaela [a lap dancer] had slapped him after they had sex. 'I felt very strongly that I needed to avenge the slap . . . I spat in her face,' he wrote. Brand would move to LA to pursue his Hollywood career after he resigned from the BBC in 2008. He started dating Katy Perry and married the star before their whirlwind romance ended in 2011 in acrimonious fashion when he sent her a text message saying he wanted a divorce. Brand is spotted departing the Wembley venue after delivering his stand-up routine last week The heartbreaking moment was captured during the I Kissed A Girl And I Liked It star's 'Part Of Me' documentary and showed Perry sobbing before she was due to go on stage. It is also in America that the most serious accusation of rape is suggested to have taken place. In an interview on Lorraine in 2017, Brand spoke about his time in Hollywood. He said: 'I suppose if you are in a position of some success people will let you be a nutter as long as they are making money out of it... 'There's a certain point where they don't really like it... in a way it's not good to live like that but it was a sort of exciting experience.' In his 2010 follow-up, Booky Wooky 2: This Time It's Personal, Brand discusses his internal battles with how he treats women. He wrote: 'What kind of man was I? Treating women in this way? If this is what I'm telling you, can you imagine what's being left out?' In 2013, Brand admitted to being a 'sex narcissist' when speaking with Richard Herring for his theatre podcast. Talking about helping others to give his life some 'kernel of truth' he said: 'I've f***ed lots of people, I've had loads of money, I've been in some - terrible - films. I know nothing works. One of the more unusual things Brand has done in his varied career appeared in a newly re-emerged video Later he is seen cutting his toenails and giving him a shave before they retire to a sofa James appeared to be grateful to Brand for the opportunity during the unusual documentary 'I know none of it is real, my last shot at anything that might mean something. That might make my life have some value is to live lovingly to people and try it, even though it's against some of my instincts. 'I'm narcissistic and I want to f*** people and I love attention. All them things are true. I've always wanted that, I love showing off.' Brand would later make a crass joke about rape during the chat with Herring as he said it 'wasn't the extraordinary I'm trying to protect [about myself], it's the mundanity'. 'Oh, I also raped someone once,' he said, before pausing. 'I killed her after, so.' One of the more unusual things Brand has done in his varied career appeared in a recently re-emerged video. It saw him befriend a homeless man James and invite him into his home to stay the night. In extraordinary scenes Brand at once point shares a bath with the gentleman and washes his hair. Later he is seen cutting his toenails and giving him a shave before they retire to a sofa. Brand then puts on Simon and Garfunkel's emotional hit Bridge Over Troubled Water as the camera zooms on to James's face. The tight crop on the homeless man's eyes appear to show him becoming emotional in what seems to be something of an exploitative moment. The bombshell rape and abuse allegations blighting Russell Brand have made headlines far beyond British shores as international media speculate on the claims brought against the comedian, actor and political commentator. The scandal ballooned this weekend after 'several women' contacted The Times and The Sunday Times in the wake of a joint investigation with Channel 4 Dispatches that saw separate allegations of sexual assault from four women. Brand, 48, vehemently denies the allegations, which also include claims of controlling, abusive and predatory behaviour, and said that all of his relationships have been 'consensual' in a video posted online on Friday night. None of his accusers have yet approached the police with a formal complaint. German media have taken a particular interest in the Brand saga, with Welt penning an article questioning whether the prominent YouTuber is an 'abominable predator' - or was simply living through an 'age of promiscuity'. Meanwhile German tabloid Bild were eager to publish images of Brand leaving his latest gig at Wembley on Saturday hours after the allegations were made and emblazoned them with the headline: 'Here Russell Brand sneaks away'. Russell Brand leaves the Troubabour Wembley Park theatre in north-west London after performing a comedy set on Saturday German tabloid Bild were eager to publish images of Brand leaving his latest gig at Wembley on Saturday hours after the allegations were made and emblazoned them with the headline: 'Here Russell Brand sneaks away' In Scandinavia, the media zeroed in on Brand being dropped by Tavistock Wood , with Swedish outlet Expressen pointing out that the talent agency had previously stood by the comedian when one of his accusers had approached them in 2020 German media have taken a particular interest in the Brand saga, with Welt penning an article questioning whether the prominent YouTuber is an 'abominable predator' - or was simply living through an 'age of promiscuity' In Scandinavia, the media zeroed in on Brand being dropped by Tavistock Wood, with Swedish outlet Expressen pointing out that the talent agency had previously stood by the comedian when one of his accusers had approached them in 2020. Tavistock Wood, who represent the likes of Dustin Hoffman, Lily James, Charles Dance and Dominic West, later confirmed they terminated 'all professional ties' with Brand. In a statement to MailOnline, the agency said: 'Russell Brand categorically and vehemently denied the allegation made in 2020, but we now believe we were horribly misled by him. TW has terminated all professional ties to Brand.' Spain's El Mundo newspaper drew a sensational comparison to Jimmy Savile, writing that the BBC's decision to open an internal investigation into Brand's behaviour during his time at the public broadcaster 'resurrected the ghost' of the comedian who after his death was accused of dozens of instances of child sex abuse. Norway's VG highlighted the support Brand's wife Laura Gallacher offered, reposting his video in which he denied the allegations on her social media - though it was later removed - while Dagbladet explained that the Metropolitan Police confirmed they had not yet received any complaints from alleged victims, but urged anyone who felt they had been abused by Brand to come forward. French and Italian media meanwhile took a very straight approach to covering the saga, reporting the details of the case devoid of slant, but Le Monde, Le Parisien and La Stampa made mentions of Brand's 'repeated escapades' and recapped how the 48-year-old previously said he had 'no regrets' over his sexual past and claimed to have slept with hundreds of women. Brand, a recovered drug addict and alcoholic, developed a reputation as a promiscuous firebrand during the peak of his fame which saw him feature in a slew of films and TV series while appearing as a regular guest on various primetime panel shows. Comedian and actor Russell Brand poses at the 26th Annual ARIA Awards 2012 on November 29, 2012 in Sydney, Australia The allegations reported by the newspapers and Channel 4 cover the period between 2006 and 2013, when Brand was a major star in Britain with a growing US profile. Known for his unbridled and risque standup routines, he hosted shows on radio and television, wrote memoirs charting his battles with drugs and alcohol, appeared in several Hollywood movies and was briefly married to pop star Katy Perry between 2010 and 2012. Brand was suspended by the BBC in 2008 for making lewd prank calls to 'Fawlty Towers' actor Andrew Sachs in which he boasted about having sex with Sachs' granddaughter. He quit his radio show in the wake of the incident, which drew thousands of complaints to the publicly funded broadcaster. The BBC, Channel 4 and the production company behind the 'Big Brother' reality series - spinoffs of which were hosted by Brand - all say they have launched investigations into Brand's behaviour and how complaints were handled. Yet in 2017, Brand told ITV's Lorraine Kelly that media corporations encouraged lewd behaviour. In an appearance on Kelly's show to talk about his book 'Recovery: Freedom From Our Addictions', the host asked Brand whether '[media bosses] sort of allow you to work in a certain way. You're enabled.' Brand replied: 'I think the point of the book is to explain why I stopped taking drugs, stopped being obsessed with sex, with money. 'If you're in a position of some success, people will allow you to be a nutter if they're making money out of it - drinking, drugs, it's not good to live like that.' MailOnline has contacted Brand's former employers the BBC and Channel 4 for comment. In recent years Brand has largely disappeared from mainstream media but has built up a large following online with videos on spirituality, wellness and offering different takes to the mainstream media. He also continues to tour as a comedian. The brother of murdered Jill Dando believes she may have been shot dead by someone looking for 'five minutes of notoriety'. In a crime that shocked the nation, the TV presenter was killed on her doorstep in Fulham, West London, on April 26, 1999. New Netflix series Who Shot Jill Dando is set to explore the cold case, which led to one of the most high profile and complex police investigations in history. Now, Ms Dando's brother Nigel, who recently relived his sister's final days in an interview with the Mail on Sunday, has said he believes his sister was the victim of a random attacker and was in the 'wrong place at the wrong time'. Twenty-four years and five months after his sister was killed, Nigel and his family are still no closer to the truth (Pictured - Jill with Nigel and their father Jack) She was Britain's best loved TV presenter who was shot dead in cold blood on her doorstep. Jill Dando's murder on April 26, 1999, shocked the nation and became one of the most high profile and complex police investigations in British history He told the BBC: 'My theory, which I had before this documentary and more so since I've seen a greater insight into the police investigation, is that it was just someone who was in that street who may or may not have known that she lived there, who was armed at the time, who may have recognised her, who perhaps thought he or she could get five minutes of notoriety by shooting her.' Mr Dando, who is now 71, added: 'And that is my view as to what happened, no matter how odd and strange people may think that is, it's certainly one of the theories that's abounded; that Jill was just in the wrong place at the wrong time.' Speaking to Sky News about the myriad theories surrounding Ms Dando's murder, he added: 'There's no line that really holds a huge amount of water apart from you know, a random killing, which I think it was.' Mr Dando was himself a journalist - working for the Bristol Evening Post - when his sister was murdered. It comes after he opened up to the Mail on Sunday about the murder of his sister. 'It was a busy London street, and whoever did it would have escaped in a car, on a motorbike or on foot - so somebody would have seen them,' he said. 'There were, I thought, no doubt lots of clues outside Jill's house, or perhaps somebody had seen someone following her. 'But it became clear quite quickly that none of those things was true. Whoever did it seemed to have vanished into thin air, which was remarkable.' Mr Dando said he hopes the Netflix series - which he participated in - might spur his sister's killer into giving themselves up. Nigel Dando, now 71, pictured with his little sister Jill during their childhood Ms Dando is pictured with her fiance Alan Farthing in 1999, months before she was shot dead on the doorstep of her home in Fulham At the time of her death, she was best known for co-presenting the BBC One programme Crimewatch with Nick Ross Barry George spent eight years in prison for Ms Dando's murder before his conviction was quashed in 2008. Above: Mr George in the documentary, and right, before his original court appearance in 2001 'I wanted to give a more rounded picture of Jill, and to show why she was so popular with millions of people,' he says of his decision to participate in the series. 'I also hope it might encourage someone to come forward with a snippet of information that didn't seem important before. 'There's even the possibility that whoever killed Jill might watch it, and it may prick their conscience.' He also told of the last time he saw her. The pair enjoyed a roast dinner with her fiance Alan Farthing on Easter weekend. 'You couldn't wipe the smile off her face, he said. 'She was getting married in five months and the talk was all about that. Her plans, how excited she was: she was full of it.' He added: 'She and Alan were so good together. They had an instant attraction, and they shared the same sense of humour. It just worked. 'It was lovely for Dad, and for me, to know that she was happy. A lot of her friends had settled down and had families and, at 37, I guess she was looking forward to going down the same route.' The documentary, which will launch globally on Netflix on September 26, is directed by Marcus Plowright (Fred and Rose West: Reopened) and executive produced by Emma Cooper (The Mystery of Marilyn Monroe: The Unheard Tapes). One of the leaflets that was handed out in an effort to trace Ms Dando's killer Six distinctive marks were found on the cartridge case used by the gunman who killed Jill Dando Police pictured outside the home of Ms Dando in 1999 following her murder Another image shows her walking through the shopping centre with her raincoat and bag These are the haunting last images of Ms Dando, pictured just 40 minutes before she was assassinated outside her home The Daily Mail's coverage of Ms Dando's shocking murder, which gripped the nation Ms Dando's murder prompted a huge investigation led by the Metropolitan Police and resulted in Barry George - a local loner and fantasist who had already served a prison sentence for attempted rape - being convicted of her murder in July 2001. However, he was granted a retrial on appeal and was unanimously acquitted by a jury in August 2008 after spending eight years in prison. In a trailer released last month, Mr George was seen saying: 'It makes me angry that they have taken eight years of my life.' At the time of her death, she was best known for co-presenting the BBC One programme Crimewatch with Nick Ross. An Eritrean culture festival in Stuttgart descended into violent chaos over the weekend as opposing mobs attacked each other and police with stones, bottles, and wooden planks. The clashes broke out between Eritrean government supporters and opponents as some 200 protesters gathered outside the festival in the southwestern German city. As violence flared, dozens of people were injured, including at least 26 officers. One resident described the scene as 'like a war'. Footage circulating on social media showed the unrest as attackers were seen running in groups and breaking into mass street brawls. A car with a smashed windshield was also seen winding its way through the clashing groups as police came under attack. The weekend's event in Stuttgart was reportedly organised by groups close to the totalitarian dictatorship of Eritrean president Isaias Afwerki. A smashed car was also seen winding its way through the clashing groups as police came under attack in Stuttgart over the weekend The clashes broke out between Eritrean government supporters and opponents as some 200 protesters gathered outside the festival in the southwestern German city A police officer stands in the street after riots at an Eritrea event in Stuttgart, Germany, on Saturday Six of the 26 injured police officers were treated in a hospital for their injuries, police said. Four event participants and two protesters were also injured, according to police, although information was not immediately available about the severity of their injuries. The violence reportedly started around lunchtime on Saturday, before the event was set to begin. Police were forced to use batons and pepper spray in an attempt to quell the attacks and additional police support had to be called in. Armoured police were also flown in by helicopter, local newspapers reported. 'It was like a war here,' one resident told Bild after fearing the mass brawls. 'Men threw stones at the officers from a schoolyard next to us. A police helicopter was on duty. It was so hectic. I thought there would be shooting soon,' they said. One of the event organisers, only identified as Solomon T told the German newspaper that the festival event was intended to be a seminar about Eritrea, before adding that 70 were forced to wait in the hall while the attacks flared outside. Saturday's protests were the latest in a string of unrest surrounding Eritrean cultural events in Germany and elsewhere. In July, a clash at an Eritrean festival in the western German city of Giessen left 22 police officers injured. The violence reportedly started around lunchtime on Saturday, before the event was set to begin in Stuttgart A police officer is pictured wrangling with one of the protesters as members of the fighting groups run away A police officer is seen raising his baton amid the violent chaos over the weekend in Stuttgart A baton-wielding officer is seen during the attacks. As violence flared, dozens of people, including at least 26 officers, were injured in the latest string of violence surrounding Eritrean diaspora communities German police clashed with groups of protesters. Opposing mobs attacked each other and police with stones, bottles and wooden planks A group of people is surrounded by police forces after riots at an Eritrea event in Stuttgart, Germany on Saturday A fight between Eritrean government supporters and opponents in Tel Aviv in early September led to one of the most violent street confrontations among African asylum seekers and migrants in the city's recent memory. Tens of thousands of people have fled Eritrea for Europe, many alleging they were mistreated by Afwerki' repressive government. The conflicts surrounding gatherings like Saturday's highlight the deep divide among members of the Eritrean diaspora, those who remain close to the government and those who have fled to live in exile and strongly oppose Afwerki. On Saturday, Stuttgart police vice president Carsten Hoefler condemned the protesters' actions and said in a statement that 'neither the extent nor the intensity of the violence was apparent in advance.' City officials said there had been no reason to ban the gathering in advance, but that they will take steps to prevent similar unrest in the future. 'We must take decisive action against the emergence of conflicts from other states on German soil,' said Stuttgart Mayor Frank Nopper, according to German news agency dpa. A smashed car is seen during the violence in Stuttgart over the weekend as opposing groups clashed within the Eritrean diaspora German police say dozens of people including at least 26 officers were injured during unrest at an Eritrean cultural festival in the southwestern city of Stuttgart Advertisement Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says he believes World War Three could become a reality if the U.S. does not continue to support Ukraine having already contributed roughly $70 billion towards the effort. Speaking on 60 Minutes Sunday night, Zelensky compared Russian President Vladimir Putin to Adolf Hitler. 'The whole world [has to] decide whether we want to stop Putin, or whether we want to start the beginning of a world war. We can't change Putin. Russian society has [lost] the respect of the world,' Zelensky said. 'They elected him and re-elected him and raised a second Hitler. They did this. We cannot go back in time. But we can stop it here.' Zelensky is expected at the White House and on Capitol Hill this week as he visits the U.S. during the United Nations General Assembly. The Ukrainian president made a wartime visit to Washington in December 2022 and delivered an impassioned address to a joint meeting of Congress. At the time, it was his first known trip outside his country since Russia invaded in February 2022. He is expected to to make the case for the U.S. to continue to provide support for his war-torn country. 'We're defending the values of the whole world. And these are Ukrainian people who are paying the highest price. We are truly fighting for our freedom, we are dying. We are not fiction, we are not a book. We are fighting for real with a nuclear state that threatens to destroy the world,' Zelensky told CBS News. 'If Ukraine falls, what will happen in ten years? Just think about it. If [the Russians] reach Poland, what's next? A Third World War?' he asked. This time, however, Congress is increasingly divided over providing additional funding for Ukraine as the war is well into its second year. Biden has sought a package of $13.1 billion in additional military aid for Ukraine and $8.5 billion for humanitarian support. It also includes $2.3 billion for financing and to catalyze donors through the World Bank. But conservative Republican lawmakers have been pushing for broad federal spending cuts and some of those allied with Donald Trump, the former president, are specifically looking to stop money to Ukraine. Noting the $70 billion the U.S. has already sent to Ukraine, Zelensky was asked if he expected that level of support to continue. 'The United States of America [is] supporting Ukraine financially and I'm grateful for this,' Zelensky said. Zelensky noted how he had not received some military aide fast enough but is thankful for the support of President Biden. 'I just think they're not supporting only Ukraine. If Ukraine falls, Putin will surely go further. What will the United States of America do when Putin reaches the Baltic states? When he reaches the Polish border? He will. This is a lot of money. We have a lot of gratitude. What else must Ukraine do for everyone to measure our huge gratitude? We are dying in this war.' When asked how much more money would Ukraine need, Zelensky was unable to specify a figure. 'I don't have an answer,' Zelensky said, noting that Putin will continue to threaten the possibility of nuclear war stoking instability in the United States and Europe. 'I think that he's going to continue threatening,' Zelensky said. 'He is waiting for the United States to become less stable. He thinks that's going to happen during the U.S. election. He will be looking for instability in Europe and the United States of America. He will use the risk of using nuclear weapons to fuel that [instability]. He will keep on threatening.' During Sunday night's interview Zelensky admitted how progress had been slow in the Ukrainian counter-offensive but insisted the troops were steadily moving forward with around 40,000 shells a day being fired by Ukrainian troops. 'It's a difficult situation. I will be completely honest with you. We have the initiative. This is a plus. We stopped the Russian offensive and we moved onto a counter-offensive.' 'And despite that, it's not very fast. It is important that we are moving forward every day and liberating territory. We need to liberate our territory as much as possible and move forward, even if it's less than [half a mile or] a hundred [yards] we must do it,' Zelensky continued. 'We mustn't give Putin a break.' Zelensky was asked what he thought Putin was trying to achieve by killing civilians in the country. 'To break [us]. And by choosing civilian targets, Putin wanted to achieve exactly this to break [us]. This person who has made his way with such bloody actions, with everything he has said, cannot be trusted. There is no trust in such a person because he has not been a human being for a long time,' Zelensky said. Read the full story: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12529835/Russia-Hitler-Putin-Zelensky-ukraine-war.html?ito=msngallery The fallout continues for Rolling Stone magazine co-founder Jann Wenner following his comments about black and female musicians as an event promoting the writer's book The Masters in New Jersey was canceled. Wenner, 77, created controversy when he suggested no female or black artists were 'articulate' enough to be included in his new book about the 'philosophers of rock' - one that profiles seven white male artists. In the wake of the remarks, Wenner was axed from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame board, despite the fact he helped to create the organization. 'Insofar as the women, just none of them were as articulate enough on this intellectual level... Its not that theyre not creative geniuses,' Wenner suggested in an interview with the New York Times. Wenner who previously hit the headlines when he came out as gay after decades of marriage, was quizzed by the Times about the lack of diversity in the line-up of musicians profiled in his latest book. The fallout continues for Rolling Stone co-founder Jann Wenner as he was pulled from an event promoting his new book Wenner (right) created controversy when he suggested no female or black artists were 'articulate' enough to be included in his new book about the 'philosophers of rock' - which profiles seven white male artists including Bob Dylan Wenner created a firestorm doing publicity for his new book The Masters, which features interviews with musicians who are all white and male Wenner was due to speak at an event at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Montclair in New Jersey on September 28. The event was being held in conjunction with the Montclair Literary Festival. 'We are no longer hosting Jann Wenner on September 28, 2023. We will start processing refunds for all ticket purchasers now. They will be refunded back to the card used at the time of purchase. We thank you for your interest and apologize for the inconvenience,' a simple message on the festival's website reads. The message was written by festival chair Marcia Marley. The subjects of The Masters - Bob Dylan, John Lennon, Mick Jagger, Pete Townshend, Jerry Garcia, Bono and Bruce Springsteen - are all white men, who Wenner stressed could 'really articulate' their philosophy. Wenner said no women were 'articulate enough' to be counted in the same number, and that black artists like Marvin Gaye and Curtis Mayfield 'just didnt articulate at that level' either. He apologized for his remarks soon after, but not before he was swiftly axed from the board of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame - which he co-founded in 1987, and presided over as chairman until 2020. Asked why he didnt interview women or Black musicians, Wenner responded: Its not that theyre inarticulate, although, go have a deep conversation with Grace Slick or Janis Joplin' Wenner co-founded Rolling Stone in 1967 and served as its editor or editorial director until 2019 'Insofar as the women, just none of them were as articulate enough,' Wenner told the New York Times while explaining why no female or black artists were profiled in his new book about the 'philosophers of rock'. (Pictured: Wenner with Stevie Nicks and Bette Midler in 2007) 'Jann Wenner has been removed from the board of directors of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation,' a short statement from the foundation said, according to industry sheet Variety. In his Times interview, Wenner said his all-male selection was 'not deliberate' but 'just fell together that way'. 'The people had to meet a couple criteria, but it was just kind of my personal interest and love of them,' he said. 'Insofar as the women, just none of them were as articulate enough on this intellectual level... Its not that theyre not creative geniuses. 'Its not that theyre inarticulate - although, go have a deep conversation with Grace Slick or Janis Joplin. Please, be my guest. 'You know, Joni (Mitchell) was not a philosopher of rock n roll. She didnt, in my mind, meet that test. 'Not by her work, not by other interviews she did. The people I interviewed were the kind of philosophers of rock.' 'Of Black artists you know, Stevie Wonder, genius, right? I suppose when you use a word as broad as masters, the fault is using that word. 'Maybe Marvin Gaye, or Curtis Mayfield? I mean, they just didnt articulate at that level.' Wenner suggested you could not have a 'deep conversation' with artist Grace Slick Wenner even acknowledged his remarks would grate on some and suggested he should have included a token black or female artist in his book. 'Just for public relations' sake, maybe I should have gone and found one Black and one woman artist to include here that didn't measure up to that same historical standard, just to avert this kind of criticism,' Wenner said. His book has been plugged as 'a remarkable collection of new and collected interviews with the greatest rock stars and cultural icons of our time'. He apologized through his publisher, Little, Brown and Company, hours after the interview was published. 'In my interview with The New York Times I made comments that diminished the contributions, genius and impact of Black and women artists and I apologize wholeheartedly for those remarks,' Wenner said. 'I totally understand the inflammatory nature and badly chosen words and deeply apologize and accept the consequences.' Wenner previously hit the headlines for divorcing his wife of 43 years to begin his new life as a gay man. Jann and Jane Wenner's split in 2011 sparked speculation it could have the knock-on effect of breaking up the Wenner Media publishing empire. But Jane reportedly secured a large cash sum while Wenner was free to marry his boyfriend, who he left her for in 1995 - Calvin Klein model and designer Matt Nye. Wenner co-founded Rolling Stone magazine in 1967, and in subsequent decades, he celebrated a multitude of rock legends in its pages in lengthy interviews. Rolling Stone became the leading music magazine of its time, later expanding into cultural affairs, conducting interviews of top politicians and fostering a style of 'new journalism' that brought techniques of fiction writing to the reporting of stories. Wenner sold a controlling stake in Rolling Stone magazine in 2017 in a deal that valued the publication at a reported $110 million. The number of centenarians in England and Wales has reached a new record high of nearly 14,000, with a striking map showing how coastal areas dominate the long life hotspots. Some 13,924 had reached the milestone by the time of the 2021 census, up a quarter on a decade ago and a staggering increase from just 110 when the survey was conducted in 1921. The oldest person was aged 112, according to the analysis released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). And the figures suggested that those with longer lifespans tend to be by the sea, with East Devon, Arun, the New Forest and North Norfolk among the places with the most centenarians relative to their populations. Nine of the top 10 on that metric were in coastal areas. Some 13,924 people in England and Wales had reached age 100 by the time of the 2021 census, a staggering increase from just 110 when the survey was conducted in 1921. Birmingham had the highest number of centenarians overall at 193, but was a long way down the table relative to population. Six of the eight local authorities with fewer than 10 centenarians per 100,000 population were London boroughs, while Knowsley and Crawley both had nine. The census details underline the huge increases in life expectancy during the 20th Century, with numbers making it to 100 increasing sharply from the 1960s. The growth has been attributed to advances in healthcare for the elderly, as well as public health measures improving air quality and working conditions. At the time of the latest survey in 2021 there were 11,288 women and 2,636 men aged at least 100, reflecting the long-standing position that women tend to live longer. Their average age was 101 years, one month and 2 weeks. Around the time of birth of these centenarians in 1921, life expectancy stood at 67.9 years for females and 61.2 years for males. That meant they had outlived their anticipated lifespans by three or four decades, and experienced momentous events including women getting the vote, the Second World War, the introduction of the NHS and advent of television. Strikingly, a quarter of the centenarians reported having good or very good health, and almost a third did not have a disability. The ONS spoke to Lauretta Boston, who turned 100 in October 2022, about her view on aging - and she said 'making myself look good' was one way she dealt with the process. The figures suggested that those with longer lifespans tend to be by the sea, with East Devon, Arun, the New Forest and North Norfolk among the places with the most centenarians relative to their populations The ONS spoke to Lauretta Boston, who turned 100 in October 2022, about her view on aging - and she said 'making myself look good' was one way she dealt with the process The centenarians had outlived their anticipated lifespans by three or four decades, and experienced momentous events including women getting the vote, the Second World War, the introduction of the NHS and advent of television 'There is always something wrong but I feel that as long as you're mentally healthy, you can cope with most things and organise yourself. I deal with one thing at a time and make myself look good. If you look in the mirror and feel and look dreadful, that makes you feel down. If I don't look too bad, it makes me feel better,' she said. Ms Boston recalled watching gas lights being lit in the streets of London, celebrating Empire Day with flags at school, and seeing neighbours getting into debt during the Great Depression. For babies born in 2021 life expectancy was projected to be 90.5 years for girls and 87.6 years for boys. Some 19.6 per cent of females and 14.1 per cent of males could expect to live to become a centenarian, although improvements in life expectancy have been slowing. . BEIJING, Sept. 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on the faculty and students at Northeastern University to make greater contributions to the full revitalization of northeast China and Chinese modernization. Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in a reply letter sent Friday, in which he extended his congratulations on the university's 100th anniversary and greetings to its faculty members, students and alumni. Since its inception, Northeastern University has cultivated a large number of talent, making positive contributions to the country as well as the nation, said Xi. He expressed his hopes that the university could cultivate more high-caliber talent based on the country's strategic needs, expand its leading edge in strong disciplines, and continue to produce high-level scientific research results. Northeastern University was founded in 1923. Its faculty and students recently wrote to Xi, vowing to seize the opportunities brought about by the full revitalization of the northeast and contribute more to the country. by Abdul Mussawer Safi The Hindutva ideology, as propagated by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), has been likened to the supremacist ideology of the Nazi Party. Just as the Nazi regime targeted Jews and non-Aryan races, the RSS has been accused of promoting hostility towards the Muslim population in India. As Martin Luther King Jr. once said, Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. The actions of the RSS, with the support of the state, have led to the marginalization and exclusion of the Muslim community, drawing parallels to the early campaigns of the Nazi regime against Jews. The RSS also runs summer camps, where volunteers train with rifles, and a political wing, the Bharatiya Janata Party, whose candidates now hold the highest offices in the land. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) are two influential political and ideological organizations in India that promote Hindu nationalism, or Hindutva. Hindutva is a political ideology that seeks to establish India as a Hindu nation and marginalize religious minorities, especially Muslims. Some critics have compared the BJP and the RSS to the Nazi Party of Germany, a fascist movement that advocated racial supremacy and persecuted Jews and other groups. In this essay, here are some similarities between the BJP, RSS, and Nazis regarding their beliefs, practices, and propaganda. Comparison between two ideologies and possible overlap: Similarities between the BJP, RSS, and Nazis are that they all believe in racial and religious superiority. Nazism promoted Aryan supremacy, a pseudoscientific concept claiming that people of Germanic descent were superior to other races. The BJP and the RSS promote Hindu supremacy, a religious and cultural concept claiming that Hindus are superior to other faiths. Both cases stigmatize religious communities as inferior, impure, or enemies. As part of its political objective to establish a pure Aryan race, the Nazi government persecuted Jews, for example. Similarly, the BJP and the RSS constantly defame Muslims, Dalits, and other lower castes as dangers to Hindu identity and culture. The exclusion of religious minorities from politics and society is another similarity the BJP, RSS, and Nazis shared. The Nazi administration passed laws depriving Jews of citizenship privileges and prohibiting them from marrying non-Jews. The BJP-RSS administration in India has adopted the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), which provides citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from neighbouring countries but excludes Muslims. The CAA has been challenged as a discriminatory statute that contradicts Indias secular constitution and creates a religiously based citizenship hierarchy. Furthermore, the BJP and RSS discourage interfaith partnerships between Hindu women and Muslim men. They have implemented legislation making religious conversion through marriage illegal, which they call love jihad. Interracial couples have been harassed and arrested as a result of these laws. Another thing that the BJP, RSS, and Nazis have in common is that they all utilize propaganda to disseminate their ideologies and affect public opinion. The Nazi dictatorship glorified Hitler and the Nazi Party through numerous media outlets such as newspapers, radio, films, posters, rallies, and speeches. They also used propaganda to vilify Jews and other groups as subhuman or evil. The BJP-RSS government in India uses social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and websites to promote Hindutva ideology and policies. They also use propaganda to spread misinformation, hate speech, fake news, and conspiracy theories against Muslims and other groups. For example, they have accused Muslims of spreading COVID-19, carrying out terrorist attacks, kidnapping Hindu girls, infiltrating institutions, and plotting to take over India. Ghettoization and Pogroms: A Comparative Analysis Ghettoization refers to segregating certain segments of society based on race, religion, economic status, or social standing. Originating in Venice, Jews used it to distinguish themselves from the rest of the population. After Nazi Germany invaded Poland, Jews were forced to relocate to designated urban areas, resulting in food shortages, crowded living conditions, and the fear of forced labor in Nazi factories or concentration centers. Under the guise of resettlement, the Nazis transported Jews from ghettos to extermination centers. In India, ghettoization follows a paradigm prevalent in the majoritarianism of the BJP-RSS regime. In affluent urban neighborhoods, Muslims are frequently denied rental properties, and developers refuse to sell to Muslims. This causes Muslims to lose their homes and relocate to safer communities with other impoverished Muslims. As the BJP-RSS regime continues its Hinduization of the nation, these Muslim enclaves, encircled by and dependent on the majority Hindu population, make Muslims easier targets. The term pogrom, which means to inflict devastation or demolish violently, refers to violent attacks by non-Jewish local populations against Jews in the Russian Empire and other countries. 1938 witnessed Kristallnacht, the most significant pogrom in Nazi Germany, which led to the Holocaust. In India, the BJP-RSS administration has caused 3,399 instances of communal unrest between 2016 and 2020. The Gujarat Pogrom of 2002 and the Delhi Pogrom of 2020 were two of the most violent pogroms in recent years. The Nazis actions before and during the Holocaust relate to the contemporary situation in India, warning that India is on a perilous path toward becoming a fascist state. According to Genocide Watch, the situation in India has already reached the stages of division, preparation, and persecution. The statement urges global leaders to denounce human rights crimes in India and foreign organizations to collaborate with Indian civil society to remove the repressive framework. Abdul Mussawer Safi is a budding author with a passion for world politics, with a particular focus on the regional dynamics of South Asia. His work has been featured on several notable platforms. He is currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in international relations at the National Defense University Islamabad. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has fired all six of his deputy defence minister with no explanation weeks after dismissing his top defence minister go. Ukraine's cabinet said that the decision was made today, according to a post that revealed the mass dismissal. No explanation was given as to why Vladimir Gavrilov, 65, Rostyslav Zamlynskii, 47, Hanna Maliar, 45, Denis Sharapov, 50, Vitalii Deineha, and Kostiantyn Vashchenko, 50, were all dismissed. But the move comes just two weeks after Zelensky fired his wartime defence chief amid allegations of graft and corruption. Oleksii Reznikov's tenure at Ukraine's wartime defence chief was marred by serious allegations of graft, which he denied. He was accused of signing off on a deal with a Turkish company for winter uniforms that were 'tripled' in value. President Zelensky (pictured) has been cracking down on wartime corruption, recently pushing to criminally treat the issue as if it were treason No explanation was given as to why all six deputy defence chiefs were let go by Ukraine's cabinet The cabinet said the decision was made on Monday during a meeting This is what a 'liberated' Ukrainian village looks like: Obliterated wasteland where not even one building still stands is reclaimed by Ukraine as it reveals it has retaken less than a square mile around Bakhmut Advertisement Ukrainian journalists also proved that the military uniforms could've been bought at a significant lowered price. He said in response to the allegations at the time: 'I urge everyone to treat information more critically and responsibly, because it misleads society and, worse still, it misleads our partners, as from outside you'd say it is a disaster. 'Everything was done in accordance with the law on public procurement... [and 'via tender procedures.' Reznikov was also mired by a top-level graft investigation, which alleged that Ukraine's defence ministry had signed off on a food and catering contract worth 13 billion hryvnias (278 million) that was hugely inflated. While Reznikov did not personally sign off on this deal, critics said he was ultimately responsible, and pointed to his zero-tolerance policy on corruption. He admitted at the time that his ministry's anti-corruption services 'failed in their task.' Ukraine has been cracking down on wartime corruption severely, with President Zelensky moving to equate it to treason in recent weeks, amid a rising number of Ukrainians believing he is responsible for the ongoing corruption in the country. Former defence minister Oleksii Reznikov (pictured) was mired in several allegations of corruption Zelensky began the process of changing the law after yet another case of wartime corruption was uncovered several, in which two high-ranking Ukrainian officials were named as suspects in an embezzlement scheme involving the procurement of humanitarian aid. 'I don't know whether Ukrainian MPs will support my idea, but I will definitely propose it We have to implement systemic changes. This is the way to fight corruption,' Zelenskyy said. 'I have set a task, and the legislators of Ukraine will be offered my proposals on equating corruption with high treason during wartime. 'I understand that such a weapon cannot operate constantly in society, but during wartime, I think it will help.' The corruption crackdown comes as Ukraine is trying to start membership with the European Union. The EU has set up a seven-step plan for Ukraine that needs to follow if it wants to join the EU. This includes strengthening anti-corruption efforts, fighting money laundering and enacting laws that reduce the power of oligarchs in the country. MailOnline has contacted Ukraine's defence ministry for comment. Russell Brand is facing allegations of sexual assaults during the height of his fame, as part of an investigation by The Sunday Times, The Times and Channel 4's Dispatches programme. The allegations date back between 2006 and 2013, but the actor and comedian has denied any wrongdoing, blaming the 'mainstream media' for a 'litany of astonishing rather baroque attacks'. Since the claims were published, more women have come forward with allegations about how he has treated them. The latest allegations - which the newspaper says have not been investigated, but will now be ''rigorously checked' Metropolitan Police have responded to the accusations, saying it encourages victims of sexual assault to contact the force. A spokesperson said: 'We are aware of media reporting of a series of allegations of sexual assault. At this time, we have not received any reports in relation to this. 'If anyone believes they have been the victim of a sexual assault, no matter how long ago it happened, we would encourage them to contact police. But what has Russell Brand been accused of? Here is everything you need to know about the allegations against the actor and comedian. Russell Brand is facing allegations of sexual assaults during the height of his fame, over a seven year period between 2006 and 2013 But what has the comedian been accused of? Here is everything you need to know about the allegations against Russell Brand What is Russell Brand accused of? Brand has been accused of rape, sexual assault and emotionally abusing four women, while others have accused him of predatory behaviour. The alleged assaults took place between 2006 and 2013 and were made in a Channel 4 Dispatches documentary on Saturday and in The Sunday Times. Most of the women in the investigation have not been named and their identities are protected One woman has accused Brand of raping her without a condom against her wall in his Los Angeles home. She says Brand attempted to stop her from leaving until she told him she was going to the bathroom. The woman is said to have been treated at a rape crisis centre on the same day, which The Times says it has confirmed via medical records. Most women who have accused Russell Brand of assault have not been named, and their identities have been protected under law The Times said she later texted him after the alleged attack to say 'When a girl says NO it means no', to which Brand sent an apology text back. Another woman, in the UK, claimed that Brand assaulted her when he was 31 and she was aged just 16 and still at school. On the first date, she claims he asked her to confirm if she was 16, adding: 'I don't give a f*** if you're 12... I just need to know where I stand legally.' She claims that he referred to her as a 'child' during the emotionally abusive relationship and said 'he engaged in the behaviours of a groomer.' A third woman claims that Brand sexually assaulted her while she was working with him in Los Angeles. She claimed that she repeatedly told Brand to get off her, and said he became 'super angry' after he gave in and threatened to take legal action if she told anyone about the encounter. A fourth complainant alleged being sexually assaulted by Brand in the UK and accused him of being physically and emotionally abusive. One woman who has been named by The Times is Brand's former personal assistant in 2006. Helen Berger claimed she saw Brand showing intimate photographs of women to his friends. She said: 'It made me feel really sick to my stomach... These are women who aren't expecting to be shown to the dude's friends Brand has been accused of rape, sexual assault and emotionally abusing four women, while others have accused him of predatory behaviour Russell Brand's former personal assistant Helen Berger claimed she saw Brand showing intimate photographs of women to his friends What other allegations has Russell Brand faced? Since Brand was accused of rape and sexual assault, more women have come forward with allegations. The Times and Sunday Times claim 'several women' have come forward with undisclosed allegations about Brand's behaviour during the early 2000s in wake of their joint investigation. Sources told The Sunday Times that his behaviour was an 'open secret' in radio and TV production. The newspaper claimed that TV researchers and runners working on Channel 4 shows with Brand, alleged that he would get staff to approach young female audience members to try to meet up with them after filming. One runner claimed that Brand flashed his penis to her as she walked into his dressing room and implied that she should give him oral sex. The latest allegations - which the newspaper says have not been investigated, but will now be 'rigorously checked' Sources told The Sunday Times that Russell Brand's behaviour was an 'open secret' in radio and TV production The BBC is now also facing 'urgent questions' after it was claimed that Brand, 48, used his company-provided car service to pick the girl up from school. It comes as both BBC and Channel 4 have launched internal investigations into separate accusations of predatory behaviour by Brand towards staff and audience members during the time of his employment. Channel 4 has since removed all programmes linked to Brand from its website, including episodes of The Great British Bake Off and Big Brother's Big Mouth in which he was featured, The Daily Telegraph reported. Netflix has since been urged to remove his comedy special, titled Re:Birth, from its streaming catalogue. How has Russell Brand responded to the allegations? On Friday, the day before the investigation aired, Brand shared a two-minute long video denying all allegations, across his social media platforms. He denied 'serious criminal allegations' and claimed his relationships were 'absolutely, always consensual'. He said: 'Amidst this litany of astonishing, rather baroque attacks are some very serious allegations that I absolutely refute,' he said in the video. 'These allegations pertain to the time when I was working in the mainstream, when I was in the newspapers all the time, when I was in the movies, and as I've written about extensively in my books I was very, very promiscuous. 'Now during that time of promiscuity, the relationships I had were absolutely, always consensual.' The comedian then claimed that he was a victim of a 'coordinated attack.' Just hours after the allegations were published, Brand performed a comedy gig to 2,000 people at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre in north-west London, as part of his Bipolarisation tour. Brand did not directly address the allegations but told the audience he wanted to talk about things that he could not. MailOnline has contacted Brand's representatives for comment. Where to watch Russell Brand: In Plain Sight: Dispatches The Russell Brand investigation aired on Channel 4 on Saturday 16 September at 9pm. The documentary was the final piece of an investigation which Channel 4 Dispatches, The Times and Sunday Times had been working on for over a year. The Dispatches episode is 78 minutes long and is available to stream on Channel 4's catch-up service. Since the allegations were published, Channel 4 announced its own internal investigation and encouraged anyone 'aware of such behaviour to contact us directly.' Channel 4, in a statement released on Sunday, said it was 'appalled' to learn of the allegations 'including behaviour alleged to have taken place on programmes made for Channel 4 between 2004 and 2007. He has now been refused parole after being jailed for at least 13 years in 2012 A husband who helped his warped family murder his six month pregnant wife because they believed she was possessed by an evil spirit has been refused parole. Mohammed Tauseef Mumtaz who later claimed his wife Naila, 21, had suffocated herself his parents, Zia Ul-Haq and Salma Aslam, both 51, and his brother in law Hammad Hassan were all jailed in 2012. One of the four smothered Nalia Mumtaz while the others held her down, apparently in an attempt to drive out the jinn spirit from her body. Birmingham Crown Court was told the murder of the isolated young woman, who had arrived in the UK in 2008 after an arranged marriage in Pakistan, had been instigated by Mumtazs parents. Paramedics found her lifeless body in a bedroom of the house the family all lived at in Craythorne Avenue, Handsworth Wood, Birmingham, in the early hours of 8 July 2009. She was pronounced dead at hospital. Naila Mumtaz, 21, (pictured) was smothered to death before her lifeless body was found by paramedics in the house she shared with her husband and family in Birmingham In September 2012, Mumtaz and his brother-in-law Hussan, then both 25, were jailed for a minimum of 13 years while Mumtazs parents were told they would each serve a minimum of 15 years. Mumtaz was the first of the convicted family to face the Parole Board in February 2023 and was told that his appeal to be released or moved to an open prison had been rejected. A spokesperson for the Parole Board said: We can confirm that a panel of the Parole Board refused to recommend transfer to open conditions of Mohammed Mumtaz following an oral hearing. Parole Board decisions are solely focused on what risk a prisoner could represent to the public if released and whether that risk is manageable in the community. A panel will carefully examine a huge range of evidence, including details of the original crime, and any evidence of behaviour change, as well as explore the harm done and impact the crime has had on the victims. Members read and digest hundreds of pages of evidence and reports in the lead up to an oral hearing. Evidence from witnesses such as probation officers, psychiatrists and psychologists, officials supervising the offender in prison as well as victim personal statements may be given at the hearing. It is standard for the prisoner and witnesses to be questioned at length during the hearing which often lasts a full day or more. Parole reviews are undertaken thoroughly and with extreme care. Protecting the public is our number one priority. Under current legislation he will be eligible for a further review in due course. The date of the next review will be set by the Ministry of Justice. Parole Board decisions are solely focused on whether a prisoner would represent a significant risk to the public after release. The Parole Board adds: It is up to the offender to demonstrate that they are safe for release, and that is hard to do. In February 2023, the parole hearing decided Mumtaz, now aged 36, was still too dangerous to be released or moved to an open prison. The Parole Board also confirmed that Mumtazs brother in law Hammad Hassan, who is eligible for a parole hearing, has not yet been referred to them. Mohammed Tauseef Mumtaz (left) who later claimed his wife Naila, 21, had suffocated herself his parents, Zia Ul-Haq (centre) and Salma Aslam (right), both 51, were all jailed in 2012 Birmingham Crown Court was told the murder of the isolated young woman was said to have been instigated by Mumtazs parents. The four were convicted in July 2012 following a three-month trial after a jury ruled they had deliberately smothered her. Mr Justice Keith handed them mandatory life terms. He said that, while the murder conviction left no room for doubt about what had happened at the family home in Birmingham, the prosecution had been unable to say for sure what the motives behind the killing had been. The court heard Mumtaz, who suffers from a genetic condition which has left him deformed, married his bride in an arranged ceremony in her homeland of Pakistan. This was 14 months before she died while six months pregnant with their first child. Birmingham Crown Court heard that a day before her death in the early hours of a July 2009 morning, Mrs Mumtaz, who spoke no English, had sounded stressed when she called her parents to tell them her husband and others in their neighbourhood had been suggesting she may have become pregnant during a solo trip to Pakistan. But the judge said a less unlikely explanation for what happened was that the defendants believed Naila had been possessed by a jinn a mischievous spirit mentioned in the Koran and that they deliberately smothered her in order to get rid of the jinn. The judge added: Thats not an easy thing for those of us in the West to understand, but the evidence (from the trial) was that a belief in jinns is widespread in the community in which they lived. During the trial, prosecutor Christopher Hotten QC said family members had told police a person had been present at the house praying to get the spirit out of her. Mumtaz claimed his wife had suffocated herself by putting her hand in her mouth and she tried to strangle herself and that his parents and Hassan, who all lived at the house, were trying to hold Mrs Mumtaz down to stop her from harming herself. Ambulance staff discovered Mrs Mumtaz unconscious in a bedroom with bruising to her arms and face. She died shortly after being taken to hospital at around 4.30am on the 8th July 2009. Prosecutors said that while complex cultural beliefs underpinned the defence case, the defendants had given untruthful accounts. Paramedics found the pregnant 21-year-old's lifeless body in a bedroom in the family's house on Craythorne Avenue, Handsworth Wood, Birmingham, in the early hours of 8 July 2009 Mohammed Tauseef Mumtaz (left) his parents, Zia Ul-Haq (centre left) and Salma Aslam (centre right), both 51, and his brother in law Hammad Hassan (right) were all jailed in 2012. The court heard Mumtaz suffered from Klippel-Feil Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder which means the neck is shortened. However, it was alleged his bride had willingly entered into the arranged marriage, despite his deformity. Defence barristers said that at the most, the defendants were guilty of a desire to cause really serious bodily injury, and not death. The judge said that Ul-Haq and Aslam were more likely to have instigated what was done to Naila. Hassan was said to have acted like a dutiful son-in-law, who, like Mumtaz, went along with what the couple thought should be done. Mumtaz muttered I loved her as his father guided him out of the dock. Detective Inspector Simon Astle of West Midlands Police, who investigated the case, described it as tragic and deeply upsetting. He added: It is unthinkable that those who she was closest to would take her life in the belief she had been possessed by evil spirits. In a statement, Mrs Mumtazs family said their loved one was a happy, confident and beautiful young woman. They hoped the case would help raise awareness of the issues faced by Naila and young people like her, adding: We need to empower people who are vulnerable and isolated to seek help in these circumstances. Vivek Ramaswamy's wife made it crystal clear that her husband is running to lead the free world and will not accept a position working as Donald Trump's vice president. In her first print interview, throat surgeon Apoorva Ramaswamy, 34, told Dailymail.com: 'He's not used to not being the boss. He runs companies.' 'I've known this man for a while now,' she added. 'There's a reason why he's an entrepreneur and didn't climb to CEO from within a big company.' The mother-of-two also fiercely defended her husband against recent claims that he had been 'cold' and an 'iceman' toward employees as he built his business empire. Some complained, according to a Friday report, that Vivek insisted offices be kept at sub 65-degree temperatures. Apoorva said her 38-year-old husband was a 'very kind and warm person' who just 'happens to like the cold.' 'It was a running gag at our wedding about how my husband likes the cold,' the physician added. 'We had a vacation where he had to put his head in the freezer because he was just so uncomfortable.' Apoorva Ramaswamy (right) spoke with DailyMail.com in her first print interview since her husband Vivek Ramaswamy (left) launched his bid for president in February. She explained that he isn't in the race running for Donald Trump's VP because the biotech entrepreneur isn't used to 'not being the boss' Apoorva works as a throat surgeon and assistant professor. She met Vivek when they were at Yale he was studying law and she was studying medicine. If Vivek is elected president, Apoorva says she would want to focus on improving the quality of life for cancer survivors as First Lady 'He literally likes to keep the temperature at 64 degrees that's no secret,' Apoorva said in response to the Business Insider report calling the candidate 'high maintenance' with a 'relentless fixation on temperature.' 'I don't know what that would say about his personality, other than the fact that he happens to like the cold,' Apoorva brushed-off in response to allusions that his preference for chilly temperatures also translates to a cold temperament. Speaking about the couple's decision to enter the race to create a better world for their two sons Karthik, four, and Arjun, one Apoorva assured her husband is not in the running as an audition for vice president to former President Donald Trump. The throat surgeon said: 'It's funny, just because, you know, I've known this man for a while now. There's a reason why he's an entrepreneur and didn't climb to CEO from within a big company. He's not used to not being the boss.' 'He runs companies,' she added. Vivek Ramaswamy, born in Cincinnati, Ohio to Indian immigrant parents, is a self-made millionaire in the biotech sphere. He earned his Biology undergraduate degree from Harvard and later earned a J.D. from Yale Law School. He worked as an investment partner at a hedge fund before founding Roivant Sciences and co-founding investment firm Strive Asset Management. Apoorva, whose parents are also Indian immigrants, met Vivek at a party at Yale when he was studying law and she was studying medicine. They married in 2015 and have two young sons. A self-proclaimed 'nerdy kid' who loved science, Apoorva is now a surgeon who specializes in treatment of swallowing disorders and voice disorders of cancer survivors. Her father was also a surgeon. If her husband becomes president, Mrs. Ramaswamy said she would continue to focus on her passion of improving the quality of life for cancer survivors. Apoorva and Vivek Ramaswamy married in 2015 and have two young sons, Karthik, four, and Arjun, one Apoorva works as a throat surgeon and assistant professor during the weekdays and hits the campaign trail on weekends with her husband and sons, Arjun (left) and Karthik (right) 'My personal passion what one of the things that wakes me up every day aside from my family, and our shared mission is care for cancer survivors,' Apoorva told DailyMail.com in the wide-ranging phone call on Sunday. 'I find them to be the most inspiring people some of the most inspiring people in the world because they've gone through, you know, what we're all afraid of. And they're on the other side, and they know what's important.' 'Ensuring their quality of life, their ability to contribute, the ability to enjoy their time with their families that's my passion, and that's what I get to do. And I hope to be able to continue to do that as First Lady if that's what the voters choose,' she added. Apoorva spends her weekdays in Ohio working as an assistant professor and surgeon, but on the weekends hits the campaign trail with her husband and sons. The Insider report from Friday alluded that Ramaswamy's 'coldness' doesn't just include temperature, but also temperament, calling him 'Iceman.' 'Behind closed doors, some of these former employees said he can be a neurotic, mercurial, and paranoid leader,' the report alleges. But Apoorva completely denounced those claims. 'I don't think people who watch the debate or have had any interaction with Vivek would call him cold,' she said. 'He's a very kind and warm person where it matters.' Currently, the 2024 hopeful is preparing for his appearance at the second GOP debate. The youngest man running for the GOP nomination has been helped by his wife and family on the campaign trail for those traditional Republican voters who want to see a family man in the White House. Apoorva joined Vivek to speak with press after his remarks at a Labor Day picnic in Salem, New Hampshire Apoorva has joined her husband in several swings through early primary states and other key states for the Republican primary election. 'I think what's been so heartening about this whole process traveling around the whole country, from Iowa to New Hampshire to Florida, Tennessee, all over the country, is that there are so many people who agree with us,' Aproova said. 'It can tend to feel that when you are in your own silo that you're alone, and that there's so many people who you disagree with, and who are, you know, saying all the wrong things,' she added. 'But I think what's so wonderful about this process is that so many of us, you know, people from all different kinds of backgrounds, who will look different, who maybe have different types of jobs, we all agree about those same principles and values and that's been such a beautiful part of this whole process: To see that we're all in this together.' Advertisement The sheer devastation of the war in Ukraine has been laid bare in desolate new images of towns recently recaptured from Russian occupiers by Kyiv's forces. The city of Bakhmut and its satellite towns in the eastern Donetsk region have long been the epicentre of some of the war's bloodiest conflicts, with months of attrition and World War One-style trench warfare resulting in thousands of deaths on both sides - and Russia's eventual capture of Bakhmut in May. Now Ukraine's military is painstakingly recovering its territory around the former industrial city metre-by-metre, with Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar announcing over the weekend her troops had pushed Moscow's forces out of the villages of Andriivka and Klishchiivka. Both cities lie on higher ground and their capture could set the stage for reasserting control over the pivotal city. But where apartment blocks, offices, town halls and factories once stood, little more than piles of rubble, the charred remains of trees and twisted hunks of burnt-out armoured cars remain. Debris litters the ground in Andriivka some six miles south of Bakhmut An overturned, burnt-out vehicle is seen outside the rubble of a red brick house on the outskirts of Andriivka A charred APC is seen at the frontline in Andriivka, Donetsk region, Ukraine, Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023 An assault unit commander from the 3rd Assault Brigade who goes by the call sign 'Fedia', runs to his position at the frontline in Andriivka, Donetsk region, Ukraine, Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023 The 3rd Assault Brigade announced Friday they had recaptured the war-ravaged settlement 6 miles south of Russian-occupied city of Bakhmut, in the country's embattled east Assault unit commander from 3rd Assault Brigade who goes by the call sign 'Fedia' speaks with a Ukrainian servicemen in the frontline a few kilometres from Andriivka, Donetsk region, Ukraine, Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023 Besides the successful expulsion of Russian troops from Andriivka and Klishchiivka, Ukraine's Deputy Defence Minister admitted her soldiers were only able to retake two square km - less than a mile - around Bakhmut in the past week Kyiv's troops have liberated 51 square km (19 square miles) near Bakhmut since Ukraine's much-heralded counteroffensive began in late May, Maliar said. But besides their successful expulsion of Russian troops from Andriivka and Klishchiivka, the Deputy Defence Minister admitted her soldiers were only able to retake two square km - less than a mile - around Bakhmut in the past week. Further south in the Donetsk region, Ukrainian troops continued to hold back a Russian offensive towards the towns of Avdiivka and Maryinka, Maliar said. Ukrainian forces are trying to advance toward the Sea of Azov in a southern drive intended to split Russian forces retook 5.2 square km (two square miles) in the past week, said Maliar. Overall, Ukraine regained more than 260 square km (100 square miles) in the south since late May, she said. During its three-month-old counteroffensive, Ukraine has reported slow, steady progress against entrenched Russian positions, retaking a string of villages and advancing on the flanks of Bakhmut, but taking no major settlements. President Volodymyr Zelensky and other officials have dismissed Western critics who say the offensive is too slow and hampered by strategic errors. Russian troops spent much of the early part of the year digging in and reinforcing defensive positions in the east of Ukraine in an attempt to lock down the territory already under their control rather than stretching their lines thin. 'The enemy is trying with all his might to regain lost positions,' Maliar said in a briefing Monday morning. 'Therefore, our fighters hold back the enemy's attacks there and are entrenched at the achieved frontiers.' As Russian troops on the ground attempt to hold back the Ukrainian counteroffensive, Moscow continues to terrorise Ukrainian cities by air. Russian forces meanwhile have pursued their aerial bombardment campaign, targeting Ukraine's southern regions and maritime export hubs in particular. Ukraine said on Monday its air defence systems had downed a swarm of attack drones and nearly 20 cruise missiles in Russia's latest aerial barrage overnight. 'A total of 24 strike UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) were recorded around the Mykolaiv and Odesa regions. Eighteen attack drones were shot down by air defence units,' the air force said on social media. It added that its forces had shot down all 17 cruise missiles fired by Russian forces overnight. Kyiv has at the same time stepped up its aerial attacks on Russia. Moscow said it repelled Ukrainian drones over outer Moscow and two border regions - as well as over several parts of occupied Crimea. Trees destroyed during battle, are seen at the frontline a few kilometres from Andriivka, Donetsk region, Ukraine, Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023 Ukrainian servicemen walk through trees at the frontline a few kilometers from Andriivka, Donetsk region, Ukraine, Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023 President Volodymyr Zelensky and other officials have dismissed Western critics who say the Ukrainian counteroffensive is too slow and hampered by strategic errors Crimea, which Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014, has been targeted throughout the war but attacks there have intensified as Kyiv vows to recapture the Black Sea peninsula. And since Ukraine launched its counteroffensive, Russia has weathered waves of drone attacks that have damaged buildings, including in the capital Moscow. But Russian officials have downplayed their significance. 'Drones were intercepted over the western, southwestern, northwestern and eastern parts of the Crimean peninsula; Istra and Domodedovo districts of Moscow region, Belgorod and Voronezh regions,' the defence ministry said. Kyiv announced the territorial gains as Beijing said China's top diplomat, Wang Yi, would begin a four-day visit to Russia for security talks on Monday. China and Russia are strategic allies, with both countries frequently touting their 'no limits' partnership and economic and military cooperation. China's foreign ministry said Wang would hold security consultations at the invitation of Nikolai Patrushev, secretary of Russia's Security Council. The visit was due a day after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un left Russia following a rare six-day trip, which appeared to solidify his country's ties with President Vladimir Putin and fanned Western fears Pyongyang could provide Moscow with weapons. A top United Nations expert meanwhile warned that respect for human rights inside Russia had substantially worsened since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine last year. 'The situation of human rights in the Russian Federation has significantly deteriorated since its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022,' UN Special Rapporteur Mariana Katzarova said in her first report on Russia. A police dog was dragged 150metres along a road after latching onto the leg of a car thief who was attempting to speed off in a stolen vehicle while evading arrest. Joel Simons viciously fought with a dog squad officer who spotted the 36-year-old attempting to break into a car in the southeast Melbourne suburb of Cranbourne on September 18 last year. CCTV and police bodycam shows the officer grappling with Simons. 'Police mate, police, police,' the officer shouts as Simons attempts to pull free of his grip. 'Get on the ground c***.' Duke manages to sink his teeth into Simons' thigh but the car thief still manages to drive off dragging the unfortunate animal out of the driver's side door Simons grabs a metal baton and delivers brutal blows to the officer's head loosening his grip. As Simons pulls free and runs down the street the officer prompts police dog Duke out of the back of his vehicle to assist him in bringing down the fugitive. Duke, a Belgian Malinois, chases Simons who jumps into stolen Toyota Corolla parked a few metres down the street. Before Simons can close the door the courageous police dog sinks his teeth into thief's leg while the officer attempts to pull the offender out of car. However, Simons is able to accelerate away with Duke being dragged from the vehicle's side. 'He's got my dog. Duke jump! Come!,' the officer shouts despairingly. The dog had to be rushed to an emergency vet with grazes to its right shoulder, inner thigh, all four paws and a deep graze to his right knee. The police officer was taken to hospital with deep cuts to his face and bruising. Police later found the Toyota, which was stolen from a car rental company, at Lang Lang about 70km southeast of Melbourne. Simons was arrested the following day and pleaded guilty to intentionally causing injury, wounding an animal, driving while disqualified and attempting to steal from the Holden. As Simons runs to his nearby Toyota the officer calls out his faithful police dog companion Duke A court heard that Simons suffers cognitive impairments and has been a heavy user of illegal drugs READ MORE: Family outrage as 13-year-old Aboriginal boy suffers gruesome injuries from being mauled by a police dog Advertisement In September he appeared again in County Court of Victoria facing charges of intentionally causing injury and animal cruelty after being jailed for almost a year on remand. Simons told the court he was upset at being charged with animal cruelty because he wasn't the sort of person who would inflict harm on animals. 'It (Duke) jumped in the car, it jumped out, I didn't drag it,' Simons testified, according to the Blue Mountains Gazette. The court was told Simons has cognitive impairments that make him compulsive and unable to deal with complicated circumstances. He has spent much of his life homeless but still hoped to secure long-term accommodation with the help of the NDIS. Simons had been working seven days a week as both a labourer and an NBN optic fibre installer before being forced to take time off work for his mental health. This had caused him to relapse into drug use, the court heart. He is due to be sentenced at a later date. A former Colorado police officer who put a handcuffed woman in a parked police vehicle that was hit by a freight train, causing the woman to suffer a serious brain injury, has avoided a jail sentence and must instead serve 30 months on supervised probation. Jordan Steinke, 29, was sentenced Friday by Weld County District Court Judge Timothy Kerns, who found her guilty of reckless endangerment and assault for the Sept. 16, 2022, crash near Platteville. Kerns acquitted the former Fort Lupton police officer of criminal attempt to commit manslaughter after her bench trial in July. Steinke, who wept during the sentencing hearing, apologized to the victim Yareni Rios-Gonzalez, 20, who attended the hearing virtually. In addition to her brain injury, Rios-Gonzalez also suffered broken ribs, wrists, a punctured lung and a traumatic brain injury. Kerns said he had planned to sentence Steinke to jail, but he changed his mind after both prosecutors and defense attorneys sought a probationary sentence, The Denver Post reported. 'Someone is going to hear this and say: `Another officer gets off, ' Kerns said. 'That's not the facts of this case.' A female suspect, believed to have been involved in a road rage incident, was pulled over by police in Colorado Officers stopped their car on railroad tracks and ordered the female suspect to walk back Officers handcuffed 20-year-old Yareni Rios-Gonzalez and placed her in the back of the car He ordered Steinke to perform 100 hours of community service. And if she violates the terms of her probation, 'I will harken back to my original gut response as to how to address sentencing,' Kerns warned. 'What happened that night has haunted me for 364 days,' Steinke said. 'I remember your cries and your screams. I remember begging you to tell me your name. I never felt so helpless we couldnt get you out of the car.' Steinke said she hoped to fulfill some of her community service by giving educational talks to new police officers about the dangers of railroad tracks and the importance of officers being aware of their surroundings. The former-officer's attorney said that Steinke has been undergoing therapy in the wake of the incident. 'The horror of what I saw and what you went through never leaves me,' Steinke told Rios-Gonzalez. 'Please do not use this experience to hate other police officers. You can blame me and you should. I want to make it really clear to this court, Ms. Rios, her family and anyone else watching I will make some good out of this, I will educate current and future police officers and anyone who will listen,' she added. Then-Plateville Police Sgt. Pablo Vazquez had stopped Rios-Gonzalez after a reported road-rage incident involving a gun. Steinke took her into custody and locked her in Vazquez's police vehicle, which was parked on the railroad tracks. A train crashed into the SUV. Officer Jordan Stienke will be forced to complete 100 hours of community service as a result of the incident Sgt. Pablo Vazquez had stopped Rios-Gonzalez in relation to a road rage incident 20-year-old Yareni Rios-Gonzalez is lucky to be alive after being hit by a train while sitting in the back of a police patrol car Rios-Gonzalez, who suffered a lasting brain injury and is in pain, was conflicted about how she wanted Steinke to be punished, attorney Chris Ponce said. 'The conflict that she feels is one where every day she has to feel this pain,' Ponce said. 'And she's had to deal with (doctor) appointments and having her life so radically changed. And feeling upset, very upset about that - angry about that - but on the other hand, feeling for Ms. Steinke, and, I think, truly empathetically feeling sorry for how she lost her career.' Steinke was fired from the Fort Lupton police department after her conviction. She is expected to lose her Peace Officer Standards and Training certification, her attorney Mallory Revel said, meaning she can never be a police officer again. During Steinke's trial, her defense attorneys said she did not know that Vazquez had parked his police vehicle on the tracks. Vazquez still faces trial for his role in the crash. He has been charged with five counts of reckless endangerment for allegedly putting Rios-Gonzalez, Steinke and three other people at risk, as well as for traffic-related violations, including parking where prohibited. Rios-Gonzalez has also filed a lawsuit against the police agencies involved. Hunter is asking for $1,000 per each disclosure of his tax information The IRS whistleblowers who sparked Hunter Biden's lawsuit against the agency accused President Joe Biden's son of trying to turn people's attention away from his legal issues with his latest maneuver. Hunter Biden's lawsuit targets IRS agents turned whistleblowers Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler, charging when they went to Congress and the media about the alleged mishandling of Hunter's tax investigation by Justice Department officials, they disclosed information about the investigation, and about Biden's taxes, that the law says should be kept confidential. 'This suit against the IRS is just another frivolous smear by Biden family attorneys trying to turn people's attention away from Hunter Biden's own legal problems and intimidate any current and future whistleblowers,' Shapley's lawyer said in a statement. 'Neither IRS SSA Gary Shapley nor his attorneys have ever released any confidential taxpayer information except through whistleblower disclosures authorized by statue. Once Congress released that testimony, like every American citizen, he has a right to discuss that public information.' Ziegler's lawyer, Dean Zerbe, said his client would 'continue to speak out about the Department of Justice providing special treatment to Hunter Biden and called the lawsuit 'an effort to distract from the ever-growing evidence that supports the testimony of the two IRS whistleblowers.' In their testimony to Congress, both men detailed the millions of dollars Hunter received from his work with a Ukrainian gas company and their concerns about how Hunter was getting special treatment in his tax investigation due to his last name. Hunter Biden has sued the Internal Revenue Service over claims agents illegally released his tax returns The IRS was investigating if Hunter Biden properly disclosed all of his income and paid taxes on it. Later Hunter would agree to a plea deal - which ultimately fell apart - where he had admitted to two tax misdemeanors. In his new lawsuit, filed Monday in federal court in Washington D.C., Hunter Biden claims the IRS violated his privacy by unlawfully disclosing his records to members of Congress and to the news media. The tax code generally forbids IRS employees from disclosing information from a person's tax returns. But there is an exception. The chairs of the congressional tax-writing committees can request any taxpayer information from the IRS and then the committees can vote to make that information public. The House Ways and Means Committee voted earlier this year to publish transcripts of interviews with the IRS employees in the Hunter Biden case, making his tax information public. When that committee was under Democratic control, it sought then President Donald Trump's tax returns and planned to release them. Trump countersued and the lawsuits out lasted Democratic control. Hunter Biden is seeking all the documents involving the disclosure of his tax information, $1,000 for each unauthorized disclosure and attorneys fees. His lawsuit was filed after he was hit with three federal firearms charges for allegedly buying a gun while he was addicted to drugs. The president's son is fighting aggressively against the charges against him. His lawyers have fired off salvos and letters to prosecutors and lawmakers. Suing the IRS is Hunter's strongest counter move to date. Hunter Biden's lawsuit says that while he has 'all the same responsibilities as any other American citizen,' he also 'has no fewer or lesser rights than any other American citizen, and no government agency or government agent has free reign to violate his rights simply because of who he is.' It is centered on disclosures made by Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler, and their lawyers in public statements, congressional testimony, and interviews. Shapley, in news interviews, claimed he was repeatedly prevented from taking the necessary and routine steps when it came to Hunter's case. He said conduct uncovered during the five-year investigation could have implicated President Joe Biden as well, and resulted in additional charges, and claimed the road blocks were happening even during the Trump years. 'There were certain investigative steps that we weren't allowed to take that could have led us to President Biden,' Shapley said, adding that his team at the IRS 'needed to take [those steps] and we weren't allowed to take them.' Shapley, who worked for the agency for 14 years, helped oversee the investigation into the president's son and is raising questions over alleged special treatment throughout the probe. Ziegler, the second whistleblower, identifies himself as a 'gay Democrat married to a man,' and told Congress in July he is coming forward to do the 'right thing.' He insisted that his decision to blow the whistle in the Hunter Biden case is not politically motivated. Currently Hunter is under investigation by U.S. Attorney David Weiss, who was appointed by Donald Trump. Weiss has been given special counsel status. The investigation is looking into potential outstanding tax debt for Hunter's stint as a board member of Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company, while his father was VP. Weiss also charged Hunter Biden related to a false gun purchase. The investigation gained steam after a plea deal, which Republicans slammed as a 'sweetheart deal,' fell through. Weiss and Hunter's lawyers reached a deal in July that called for the president's son to plead guilty in Delaware federal court to two misdemeanor counts of failing to pay his taxes in return for prosecutors' recommending probation. But the deal fell apart in the Delaware courtroom when the presiding judge started to question some of its details, including one that including would theoretically protect Hunter Biden from other tax-related crimes in the same period. Prosecutors said it would not. Hunter's lawyers said it would. With that disagreement, the deal disappeared. Weiss may soon file a new indictment against Hunter Biden in another federal court potentially in California over alleged tax crimes that the agents say they found in reviewing his finances from 2014 to 2019, the Washington Post reported. IRS Supervisory Special Agent Gary Shapley, left, and IRS Criminal Investigator Joseph Ziegler, are sworn in at a House Oversight and Accountability Committee hearing in July Hunter Biden with his father Joe Biden in 2016 Last week, Weiss announced three federal charges against Hunter tied to the president's son buying a gun in 2018. In the charges, two counts accuse Hunter Biden of having completed a form indicating he was not using illegal drugs when he bought a Colt Cobra revolver in October 2018. The third count alleges he possessed a firearm while using a narcotic. Hunter, in his memoir, revealed he relapse into a drug and alcohol addiction after the death of his brother Beau from brain cancer in 2015. His attorney Abbe Lowell said Hunter was not on drugs at the time he purchased the revolver. 'If you're going to be specific, then be specific. If the form asks if you are a drug user on the day you buy a gun that is an issue. If it says have you ever used drugs that's an issue. That will be played out in court,' he told ABC News last week. The charges came the same week that Republicans in the House opened a formal impeachment inquiry into President Biden for his alleged connections to Hunter's business dealings and is likely to have a long-term impact on his political career. Two of the counts carry maximum prison sentences of 10 years, while the third has a maximum of five years. Each count also carries a maximum fine of $250,000. Andrew Pierce and his GB News co-host Beverley Turner dramatically clashed live on air today as they discussed the bombshell allegations made against Russell Brand. Comedian and actor Brand, 48, has been accused of rape and sexual assaults between 2006 and 2013, when he was at the height of his fame and working for the BBC and Channel 4. During Monday's GB News show, Daily Mail columnist Pierce branded Ms Turner 'shameful' after she called Brand 'a hero' on Twitter in the wake of allegations revealed in an investigation by The Times, The Sunday Times and Channel 4 Dispatches. Pierce also said that Ms Turner was 'behaving like an idiot' after she continued to defend Brand amid the fallout. The furious on-air row comes after one businesswoman alleged Brand raped her at his Los Angeles home in 2012 when she refused a threesome and another who said she was a 16-year-old schoolgirl when he choked her during a sexual act. On Saturday following the reports, Ms Turner tweeted that Brand was being 'attacked' by 'establishment media' and encouraged him to keep going with his YouTube channel which often rails against these outlets, hailing him 'a hero'. But Pierce said today: 'That is shameful. Beverley Turner continued to defend her support for Brand after calling him a 'hero' in a tweet Daily Mail columnist and GB News host Andrew Pierce branded Beverley Turner 'shameful' for defending Brand Russell Brand pictured on Saturday evening leaving the Troubadour Wembley Park theatre in north-west London after performing a comedy set 'You have dismissed in one tweet a four-year investigation by The Sunday Times, The Times and Channel 4, contemptuously, the mainstream media.' He asked: 'Don't you think before you say he is a hero you should establish whether these very serious allegations are true?' She replied: 'Before I tweeted that, I had spoken to several sources close to Brand, close to The Times... I was confident that there is no smoking gun in this regard. 'I remain confident having watched the Dispatches [episode].' She added: 'Of course everybody has the right to not be sexually assaulted. 'Anybody who has been sexually assaulted, my heart goes out to them. 'This happens every single day.' Pierce countered that he did not feel there was 'sympathy' in her tweet for the four women who have raised these allegations adding that he was 'shocked' at her statement. In the post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Turner wrote: 'You are being attacked @rustyrockets. 'Establishment media don't know what to do with the fact that you have 6million subscribers & generate autonomous, knowing and original content. 'You are welcome on my @GBNEWS show anytime. We are mainstream media. But we are not Establishment media. There's a difference. 'Keep going. This proves you are winning. You're a hero.' In recent years Brand has seemingly become a prominent conspiracy theorist, using his YouTube channel with more than 6.6 million subscribers to cover topical news stories, including alleged misinformation surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic and being an outspoken sceptic of vaccinations. Controversial comedian Brand at 'The Today Show Concert Series' TV programme pictured in June 2010 Brand (pictured in 2008) said that during his 'time of promiscuity, the relationships I had were absolutely always consensual' and that he was 'always transparent about that' Russell Brand on Big Brother's Little Brother on May 31, 2006. Brand presented Big Brother's Big Mouth for three years before choosing not to return for the eighth series of the show Former spouse Katy Perry and Russell Brand attend the 82nd Annual Academy Awards in LA on March 7, 2010 Reflecting on Brand's platform, Turner said: 'Let me tell you why he's winning. 'He's winning because here's a man who generates his own content, under his own steam, under his own expense. 'He is a threat to all of these newspapers.' A furious row also erupted over whether Brand's wife's sister Kirsty Gallacher deleted a message of support for the comedian after seeing the claims revealed in the Channel 4 Dispatches programme. The night before, Brand had posted a two-minute video denying any criminal wrongdoing. TV star Gallacher shared the video with a large red heart but later deleted it after the documentary was released. Pierce told viewers: 'Interestingly his wife's sister Kirsty Gallacher tweeted in support of him and then she saw the Dispatches programme. The comedian, actor and internet personality has told his 6.5million subscribers that there are 'very, very serious criminal allegations' made against him which he 'absolutely refutes' But a furious Ms Turner interrupted, shouting: 'No, that's not true Andrew.' She claimed that Pierce did not know why she took down the post, adding: 'I'll tell you why. Because people like you are saying that you cannot defend this man.' She claimed that Ms Gallacher was frightened of speaking out and 'only idiots like me' have. Pierce then interrupted: 'Well there's a true word to use there Bev because you are behaving like an idiot. You are behaving like an idiot. Turner added: 'I will always stand by my principles. This man is innocent until proven guilty.' After Brand was hit with accusations of rape and sexual assault, more women have come forward with allegations about how he treated them, it has emerged. The Times and Sunday Times claim 'several women' have come forward with undisclosed allegations about Brand's behaviour during the early 2000s in wake of their joint investigation with Channel 4 which was published on Saturday. The latest allegations - which the newspaper says have not been investigated, but will now be 'rigorously checked'. The BBC is now also facing 'urgent questions' after it was claimed that Brand, 48, used his company-provided car service to pick the girl up from school. It comes as both BBC and Channel 4 have launched internal investigations into separate accusations of predatory behaviour by Brand towards staff and audience members during the time of his employment. Channel 4 has since removed all programmes linked to Brand from its website, including episodes of The Great British Bake Off and Big Brother's Big Mouth in which he featured, The Daily Telegraph reported. Netflix has since been urged to remove his comedy special, titled Re:Birth, from its streaming catalogue. The maverick actor and stand-up comic has strenuously denied any wrongdoing and blamed the 'mainstream media' for the 'litany of astonishing, rather baroque attacks'. Chicago's Democrat mayor wants to create city-run grocery stores to promote 'equitable' access to food after half of the city's Walmart and Whole Foods stores closed. Mayor Brandon Johnson announced a partnership with the Economic Security Project to open municipally-owned grocery stores in Chicago in a bid to tackle many of the city's so-called 'food deserts.' Johnson's new moves are set to help 'repair past harms that have contributed to purposeful disinvestment and exclusion and lack of food access' in historically underserved communities. The liberal mayor said: 'All Chicagoans deserve to live near convenient, affordable, healthy grocery options. Mayor Brandon Johnson announced a partnership with the Economic Security Project to open municipally-owned grocery stores in Chicago. According to estimates from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 63.5 percent of residents in West Englewood and 52 percent of residents in East Garfield Park live more than half a mile from their nearest grocery store 'We know access to grocery stores is already a challenge for many residents, especially on the South and West sides. 'My administration is committed to advancing innovative, whole-of-government approaches to address these inequities. 'I am proud to work alongside partners to take this step in envisioning what a municipally owned grocery store in Chicago could look like.' The city did not give a timeline for when the initiative would come forward - and the grant money which will help invest could come from state and federal tax dollars, not just local taxes, reports CBS. The was mixed reaction to the scheme. One person wrote on social media: 'Lets see major, successful retailers and grocery store operators have pulled out of certain zip codes due to chronic crime, but the city of Chicago is going to install and manage tax-payer-subsidized stores. What could possibly go wrong?' Another added: 'People need to learn not to steal and the grocery stores won't have to close.' And a third said: 'Residents must respect community businesses if they want their services. 'The city, with a budget shortfall of $538 million, owning grocery stores with taxpayer funds only in some neighborhoods is unsustainable & blatantly preferential. Work to mitigate causes of why stores left.' Others accused Johnson's idea of being akin to communism. Another critic said: 'Well if you want stores to locate in places like that then maybe you should crack down on crime - particularly shop lifting. 'Hard for businesses to stay open when your inventory walks out the door with shoplifters.' In April this year, Walmart announced that it was shuttering four main stores across Chicago because they were simply not profitable enough And another person on social media said: 'I don't believe the city of Chicago could run an ice-cream stand in the summer time, let alone a grocery store.' In April this year, Walmart announced that it was shuttering four main stores across Chicago because they were simply not profitable enough. This equated to half of all the stores in the Chicago area. 'The simplest explanation is that collectively our Chicago stores have not been profitable since we opened the first one nearly 17 years ago these stores lose tens of millions of dollars a year, and their annual losses nearly doubled in just the last five years,' Walmart said in a statement. 'The remaining four Chicago stores continue to face the same business difficulties, but we think this decision gives us the best chance to help keep them open and serving the community.' Last November, Whole Foods closed in Englewood, stripping the neighborhood of fresh food produce and leaving the lot empty for nearly a year. The closings were announced just days after Chicago's newly elected liberal mayor Brandon Johnson blamed the city's poverty and crime rates on businesses that don't pay taxes. While Walmart in their statement did not specify the exact causes for the continued losses over the years in the Chicago stores, some on social media immediately pointed to crime rates in the area. To date in 2023 over 2022, thefts are up by 25 percent according to the Chicago Police Department while robberies are up 11 percent. In 2022, Walmart CEO Doug McMillon had warned that theft in stores around the country could impact stores and cause additional closings. Whole Foods closed in Englewood in November 2022, stripping the neighborhood of fresh food produce and leaving the lot empty for nearly a year Despite the previous warnings, the company noted the decision as difficult. 'The decision to close a store is never easy. The impact is greater than just closing a building. It affects people people who work in, shop in and live in communities near our stores and we never take that lightly,' Walmart said. Walmart officials cited 'business difficulties' in their statement addressing the remaining four stores in Chicago, as well. According to estimates from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 63.5 percent of residents in West Englewood and 52 percent of residents in East Garfield Park live more than half a mile from their nearest grocery store. Ameya Pawar, Senior Advisor at Economic Security Project said: 'The City of Chicago is reimagining the role government can play in our lives by exploring a public option for grocery stores via a municipally owned grocery store and market. 'Not dissimilar from the way a library or the postal service operates, a public option offers economic choice and power to communities. 'A City-owned grocery store in the South or West side of Chicago would be a viable way to restore access to healthy food in areas that have suffered from historic and systemic disinvestment.' by Sanchita Bhattacharya On September 7, 2023, at least 11 people were injured in an attack at Shaheed Chowk in the Khipro town of Sanghar District in Sindh, in a Shia mourning procession which was being carried out in observance of Imam Hussains Chehlum (the 40th, concluding, day of ritual mourning). The procession was taken out by participants of a majlis, held in the Asgharia Imambargah. The trouble started when operatives belonging to the banned Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat (ASWJ) tried to block the path of the procession, claiming that mandatory permission had not been obtained. Sanghar Senior Superintendent of Police Abid Baloch stated that tensions in Khipro had been brewing for a few days, after the organisers of the majlis made public their intention to take out a mourning procession. Tharparkar, Pakistan [Photo: Muneer Ahmed /Unsplash] On July 8, 2023, at least five people were killed and 21 suffered injuries in an attack on Shias in the Boshera village in the Kurram District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). On May 4, 2023, assailants entered a school staffroom in a Kurram District school, where students were taking exams, and selectively killed seven Shia teachers. According to partial data collated by the South Asia Terrorism Portal (SATP),three incidents (above) of attacks on Shias, resulting in 12 Shia fatalities, have been reported in 2023, so far (data till September 17). In 2022, there was one such incident which had resulted in 63 fatalities. According to the SATPdatabase, since March 6, 2000, when SATP started compiling data on conflicts in Pakistan, at least 2,790 people belonging to the Shia community have been killed in Pakistan, in 480 incidents, and another 2,393 people have been injured. Some of the prominent incidents of attacks on Shias included: March 4, 2022: The Islamic State-Khorasan Province (IS-KP) carried out a suicide attack at the Kucha Risaldar Mosque of the Shia community at Qissa Khwani Bazaar in Peshawar, the provincial capital of KP, killing at least 63 people and injured another 196. Later, a post from ISIS-affiliated Amaq news agency claimed that a suicide bomber trained by the terrorist group had carried out the attack. January 3, 2021 : Islamic State (IS) terrorists killed 11 coal miners belonging to the Shia Hazara communities by slitting their throats and injured four others in the Machh area of Kachhi District in Balochistan Province. April 12, 2019: At least 16 persons. including two children and one Frontier Corps (FC) trooper were killed and 30 others, including four FC personnel, sustained injuries, after an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded at the Hazar Ganji vegetable market of Quetta, the provincial capital of Balochistan. The target of the attack were the Hazara Shias. Shias account for approximately 10-15 per cent of the Muslim population of Pakistan. The country is home to the worlds second largest Shia population, after Iran. Shias in Pakistan are geographically spread across the country. The highest numbers are found in Gilgit-Baltistan, where they form the majority. They also reside in Karachi, Sanghar, Nawabshah and Hyderabad in Sindh. Within Karachi, the concentrations of Shia, particularly Hazaras, can be found in Abbas Town, Hussain Hazara Goth, Mughal Hazara Goth, Rizvia, Ancholi, Defence Housing Authority (DHA) Gizri, Pak Colony and Manghopir. Shias live throughout Punjab, including in Lahore. However, Sunni and Shia communities are more segregated in southern Punjab. Most Shias in KP live in Peshawar, Hangu, Kohat, and Dera Ismail Khan. The Hazara community within the Shia sect mostly live in enclaves in Quetta due to the security situation in Balochistan, in Hazara Town and Mariabad. They also reside in Sanjawi, Mach, Zhob, Harnai, Loralai, and Dukki in Balochistan. Over the decades, the Shias of Pakistan have been narrowly targeted and ruthlessly killed in armed attacks and by suicide bombers. They have been killed inside their mosques and shopping markets, while on pilgrimage to Iran and even at funerals. Shia have also been subjected to numerous forms of hate speech and acts, most commonly as campaigns in mosques, schools, public spaces and increasingly on social media. They are often maligned as a community for their religious beliefs. Such campaigns openly label them apostates or heretics, and call on Sunnis to kill them. There is a huge trend of takfir: a practice of calling another sect heretic, in which Sunni extremist groups raise slogans against Shias, call them Kafir (infidel) and declare them wajib ul qatl (fit to be killed). More dangerously, hashtags pronouncing Shias as blasphemers and infidels often trend on social media. Furthermore, the ethnic Hazara communities also experience significant violent attacks as a result of their Shia ancestry. According to partial data collated by SATP, since 2006, 386 Hazaras have been killed in Pakistan in 81 incidents (data till September 17, 2023). The Country Policy and Information Note Pakistan: Hazaras, published in July, 2022 by the UK Home Office, notes, According to Pakistans National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR), at least 2,000 Hazaras have been killed in terrorist-related incidents and targeted killings between 1999 and late 2017. Hazaras are an ethnic group mainly based in Afghanistan, but also with a large population in Pakistan, with population estimates of this group in Pakistan ranging from 650,000 to 900,000. The majority of Hazaras in Pakistan, approximately 500,000, live in Quetta city. Sectarian terrorism now runs across the entire range of Sunni Islamist groups in Pakistan, including adherents to what was once regarded as the more moderate Barelvi sub-sect believed to constitute a majority of Pakistans population. Mentioning the danger of sectarian conflict within Pakistan and its percolation into various sects, the International Crisis Group (ICG) Report, A New Era of Sectarian Violence in Pakistan, published in September 2022, thus observes: Until recently, the countrys sectarian divide mainly pitted some Deobandis against Shias, with hardliners among the former denigrating the latter with the slogan Shia kafir (Shias are non-believers) Tehreek-e-Labaik [a Barelvi organisation] has now embraced the Deobandi antipathy for Shias as its own. Many Labaik members and supporters apply the Sunni concept of takfir in effect, excommunicating Muslims whose practices they deem improper to Shias As reported in March, 2021, according to the Center for Social Justice, at least 199 individuals were accused of blasphemy offenses in Pakistan in the year 2020. The accused were mostly Shia (70 per cent of cases) and Ahmadi Muslims (20 per cent of cases). Significantly, on January 17, 2023, the National Assembly, the lower house of Pakistans federal Parliament, unanimously passed an amendment to Pakistans blasphemy law through the Criminal Laws (Amendment) Act, 2023. This private members bill was introduced by Moulana Abdul Akbar Chitrali, a member of the religious party Jamaat-e-Islami. In the statement of objects and reasons for the Bill, Chitrali highlighted blasphemy on the internet and social media and argued that disrespecting the companions of the Prophet Muhammad and other sacred personalities not only promotes the terrorism and disruption in the country but it also hurts the people from all walks of life. Shia leaders and politicians joined other minority groups in vehemently opposing the controversial legislation, citing its potential for exacerbating sectarian tensions and victimizing minorities. On August 16, 2023, scholars, and political leaders within the Shia community warned that the blasphemy laws were being used to marginalize the Shia community and curtail their ceremonies, particularly during the mourning months of Muharram and Safar, under false charges of blasphemy. Pakistans Government appears increasingly to be falling into the trap of fundamentalists and religious fanatics, instead of safeguarding the rights of all its people, and particularly the minorities, including minority Muslim sects, who have been systematically targeted in campaigns of hate and violence. It is clear that minority religious communities cannot live their lives free from threat or fear of assault in the Pakistan of today, even as their persecution is increasingly institutionalized, particularly with the further hardening of blasphemy laws. Sanchita Bhattacharya is a Research Fellow at Institute for Conflict Management in New Delhi, India For all the latest news on Russell Brand, see MailOnline's liveblog , here Russell Brand was once one of the biggest names in British comedy, starring in a string of successful Hollywood movies that made him a small fortune. But on Saturday, the 48-year-old comic was hit by a string of damning accusations, which included rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse. Brand vehemently denies any wrongdoing and insists his previous relationships with women were always 'consensual'. But the damning allegations led to Channel 4 removing all programmes linked to him on its website, including episodes of The Great British Bake Off and Big Brother's Big Mouth in which he was featured. It also saw Brand's PR firm MBC PR and talent agent Tavistock Wood no longer advertising him as a client. Meanwhile, streaming giant Netflix has since been urged to remove his comedy special, Re:Birth, from its catalogue. The 48-year-old, who lives in a 3million seven-bedroom Oxfordshire mansion with his wife Laura and their two children, is believed to have accrued 16million in wealth since his meteoric rise to fame, according to Celebrity Net Worth. Russell Brand pictured on Saturday evening leaving the Troubabour Wembley Park theatre in north-west London after performing a comedy set Brand owns the Crown Inn at Pishill, Oxfordshire, with wife Laura Gallacher Brand's litany of book deals have seen him write autobiographies, political manifestos and wellness (pictured: 2017 book Recovery) In recent years the comedian's profiled has been bolstered after featuring films such as Death on the Nile and Minions: The Rise of Gru, while also hosting a daily podcast on video platform Rumble. This has seen him feature in hit films including Despicable Me and Forgetting Sarah Marshall, write best selling novels such as My Booky Wook - which led to a 1.8million publishing deal for two more books - and go on multiple sell-out stand-up tours of Britain. Brand also runs his own companies which keep to keep his bank balance healthy. Pablo Diablos Legitimate Business Firm Ltd which he co-owns with his wife, for instance, saw its cash reserves grow by 2million last year. He also runs film production firm 90 Ninety Films Limited. READ MORE: Police urge victims to come forward as Russell Brand is accused of rape Advertisement He has built up a loyal fanbase on social media - he has 3.8million followers on Instagram, 6.6million subscribers on YouTube, 11.2million followers on Twitter and 5.9million on Facebook. His YouTube account - which has since been suspended for 'violating' its responsibility policy - is also thought to have been a solid earner for the under-fire comic. The channel, which features a number of vaccine-sceptic videos and conspiracy theory videos, has more than 1.1billion views. Individual videos tend to get between 500,000 and one million views. Estimates on how much cash he rakes in from it vary. However, social media expert Sara McCorquodale claimed the comedian and self-styled wellness guru could easily be making thousands of pound with each video. Ms McCorquodale, who is the chief executive of social media analysis agency CORQ, told The Guardian: 'He is most likely making 2,000 to 4,000 per video, not taking into account any affiliate deals and brand sponsorships that might be running in the background.' Based on five videos a week, Brand could easily be earning the best part of 1million a year from his channel. The actor also advertises his own self-produced podcast called 'Stay Free with Russell Brand'. Fans of the comedian can become one of his 'awakened wonders' by signing up for $60 (48) to receive exclusive content, guided meditations and even go on virtual walks with Brand. The comedian has strenuously denied allegations that he raped, sexually assaulted and emotionally abused multiple women. Pictured: Brand in a video released on social media denying the claims Luminary, the subscription podcast firm, also produces Brand's interview show Under the Skin with Russell Brand. The company has not yet commented on whether it still has a business relationship with the 48-year-old. But PR experts have now questioned whether the sex scandal facing the star could lead to his fans turning their backs on him. PR guru Sean O'Meara says the allegations against Brand were hugely damaging - although potentially not career ending. Mr O'Meara, managing director of communications and PR consultancy Essential Content, told MailOnline: 'From a reputational point of view, mainstream platforms would be crazy to consider working with Brand again. 'But that doesn't mean he can't have a career after this. 'He now has no choice but to fully embrace his persona as a conspiracist crusader against the "establishment", using social media and his own platforms, if he wants to continue being a public figure and performer. 'That's his only path to recovery. People will still pay to see him, but I doubt he'll be getting the support of powerful booking agents and promoters.' Despite the 'horrendous' allegations facing Brand, some claim Brand's 'cult following' online may be willing to back him Channel 4 has since removed shows from its site linked with Brand. Pictured: Brand on Celebrity Great British Bake Off Brand hosting Big Brother's Little Brother in May 2006 - which is another one of the show's Channel 4 has removed from its website containing the comedian Russell Brand pictured with his wife Laura Gallacher recently before the allegations against him emerged Russell Brand, pictured at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre last night, could keep a large amount of his fanbase despite the allegations against him, a PR expert has said PR expert Mark Borkowski says some of Brand's fanbase will stay intact thanks to the 'unfettered unregulated world of social media'. But he also questioned whether Brand would have enough of a following to maintain his millionaire lifestyle - as he claimed he was uncertain about how much cash the comedian was raking in now. 'Ive no idea how he makes his money. Im still bewildered about how he generates cash. Its always been bewildering for me,' he added. Brand received support online from the likes of Andrew Tate and Elon Musk and his fans were out in force at a gig in Wembley on Saturday to show their support. Mr Borkowski said that Brand has 11million followers on Twitter alone, 6.6million subscribers on YouTube and a hugely popular wellness podcast. These fans could choose to back him. 'He [Brand] has an audience and lots and lots of people who are engaged in his content'. He added the comedian's denial of the accusations was reminiscent of how Donald Trump deals with accusations of improper behaviour. Mr Borkowski said: 'I think there will be a profound amount of people who will stand by him. Normally with allegations like this your career would be over, but not in this case, which is interesting. 'He's a great content generator. He didn't get to the top of his profession because he's mediocre. He has the power to bewitch his audience.' Brand, 48, was accused of attacking four women between 2006 and 2013 when he was working as a presenter for BBC Radio 2 and Channel 4 and later as an actor in Hollywood. Other women have made a range of accusations about controlling, abusive and predatory behaviour. Brand has since been dropped by a women's charity he was working with, while TV production companies and channels have launched probes into his alleged behaviour. In recent years Brand has found work as a stand-up comedian, podcaster and actor. Pictured: The 48-year-old in the 2022 film Death on the Nile Alice (pictured) alleges that Russell Brand sexually assaulted her when she was 16 years old. She claims he would send a car to pick her up from her secondary school lessons, which she has since claimed was a 'BBC car' Bosses at Netflix have been urged to remove his comedy special, Re:Birth from its streaming catalogue BBC chiefs scrambled to investigate Brand last night after the comedian was accused of rape. Their probe was announced minutes before Scotland Yard piled on the pressure by announcing that detectives would like to speak to the comedians alleged victims. Brand, a former star of the BBC and Channel 4, faces bombshell claims from women alleging sexual assaults, abuse and predatory behaviour including one who was a 16-year-old schoolgirl. But the claims from one businesswoman who alleged Brand raped her when she refused a threesome and another who said she was 16 when he choked her during a sexual act, prompted a firestorm yesterday. Among the complaints raised in the investigation were allegations by a woman, referred to as Alice to protect her identity, who claims she was sexually assaulted by Brand as a 16-year-old. She alleges he took her virginity, was 'preoccupied' with her being 'innocent and pure', and often referred to her as 'The Child'. Alice described his behaviour towards her as 'grooming' as Brand would allegedly provide her with scripts on how to deceive her parents into allowing her to visit him. She also claimed he would send his 'BBC car' to her secondary school to pick her up. The comedian released a video last week refuting all the allegations against him. Pictured: Brand leaving the Troubabour Wembley Park theatre after a gig on Saturday night 'The first time I used it, he told me it was booked to take him to his radio show but he had a friend taking him instead so I should use that car,' she told The Times. She claimed the chauffeur once took her from Brand's home to her grandmother's house and that on a separate occasion the same car 'picked me up from school'. Alice added: 'It was the same car...I knew that that was a BBC car.' The BBC did not initially commit to an inquiry but amid the growing outcry, it shifted its position last night and a spokesman said it was urgently looking into the issues. In a statement, a BBC spokesman said: 'The documentary and associated reports contained serious allegations, spanning a number of years. 'Russell Brand worked on BBC radio programmes between 2006 and 2008 and we are urgently looking into the issues raised.' The broadcaster yesterday launched an internal investigation into what was known about Brand's alleged behaviour following claims that at least one senior executive was aware of complaints against the comedian and seemingly dismissed them. Banijay UK, which produced Big Brother's EForum and Big Brother's Big Mouth in the early 2000s, revealed it had also 'launched an urgent investigation' into the 'very serious' allegations from former staff who worked alongside Brand when he hosted the programmes between 2004 and 2006. The ex-staffers have claimed that Brand got them to 'act like pimps' by getting the numbers of women in the audience and passing notes to them from the presenter. Channel 4 has also said it is conducting its own internal investigation following allegations of predatory behaviour against Brand. They said: 'We have asked the production company who produced the programmes for Channel 4 to investigate these allegations and report their findings properly and satisfactorily to us. 'Channel 4 is also conducting its own internal investigation, and we would encourage anyone who is aware of such behaviour to contact us directly.' The statement added: 'We will be writing to all our current suppliers reminding them of their responsibilities under our Code of Conduct, as we are committed to ensuring our industry has safe, inclusive and professional working environments.' The network also confirmed to the Telegraph that it has 'taken down all content featuring Russell Brand while we look into the matter'. Brand, who is currently taking his new stand-up show, Bipolarisation, on a tour around Britain with dates coming up in Windsor, Plymouth and Wolverhampton this month, denies claims and released a video last week insisting his relationships were 'consensual'. Among the most devoted fans are listeners to his podcast, on which he rails against 'Big Pharma' and the mainstream media, as well as promoting conspiracy theories. The allegations of 'sinister' behaviour towards women made against him have the potential to end careers in showbusiness. These include claims he made runners on Big Brother's EFourum, which was later known as Big Brother's Big Mouth, 'act like pimps' by demanding they get the numbers of women in the audience for him. One staff member claimed she felt she was 'groomed' for sex by the presenter, while another said they had reported concerns about his behaviour to managers at production company Endemol. Banijay UK, which bought the firm in 2020, has launched an investigation into the claims. In the investigations, one woman alleged Brand raped her against the wall in his Los Angeles home when she was in her 30s. Another whom he allegedly referred to as 'the child' told how the presenter targeted her when was 16 years old and still at school, and he was aged 30. This is the moment a suspect was arrested after Los Angeles sheriff's deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer was killed in a 'targeted' ambush in his patrol car just days after he became engaged. Kevin Salazar, 29, was arrested at a Palmdale home early on Monday after an hours-long standoff with police - just 36 hours after Clinkunbroomer, 30, was shot dead while on duty. The news comes after authorities offered a $250,000 reward in the hunt for a suspect and released grainy surveillance video of a dark-colored sedan that pulled alongside the patrol car in the moments before the shooting. Sheriff Robert Luna said during a press conference announcing the arrest that community leaders came forward with information that led them to the suspect and his vehicle. Salazar refused to come out of the home for hours and only surrendered after police released chemical agents. Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer had gotten engaged just four days before his murder. He was an eight-year veteran of the police force, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather Clinkunbroomer was found near the intersection of Sierra Highway and Avenue Q in Palmdale Luna has said he believes the shooting was a 'targeted attack,' but the motive, and whether Clinkunbroomer or the department in general was the target, remains unclear. 'Without warning, he was murdered while serving our community,' an emotional Luna said at a Sunday news conference. 'Please, I beg you. Somebody has information. Make things right.' Luna said investigators believe the 'vehicle of interest' is a gray Toyota Corolla manufactured between 2006 and 2012. A vehicle matching the description of the 'vehicle of interest' was towed out of a Palmdale neighborhood on Monday morning, according to local reports. Video shows Clinkunbroomer's patrol car stopping at a red light. A black sedan stops a few feet behind the car before pulling up to the driver's side. After a moment, it peels off down the street as the patrol car rolls forward slightly and comes to a halt. Clinkunbroomer was found near the intersection of Sierra Highway and Avenue Q in Palmdale by a person Luna identified as a 'good Samaritan' who alerted personnel at the city's sheriff's station. The deputy was taken to Antelope Valley Medical Center in Lancaster, where he was treated for a gunshot wound and eventually died. A vehicle matching the description of the 'vehicle of interest' was towed out of a Palmdale neighborhood on Monday morning A car matching the description of the vehicle of interest authorities were looking for in connection with the ambush killing of Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer has just been towed out of a Palmdale neighborhood. Its a few miles from the Palmdale Sheriffs Station. @knxnews pic.twitter.com/gRSU45xH3A Margaret Carrero (@KNXmargaret) September 18, 2023 Authorities have offered a $250,000 reward in the hunt for a suspect Clinkunbroomer was a third-generation deputy whose father and grandfather also served with the force. He is pictured with his fiancee 'Were going to catch the person who did this,' Luna said Saturday night. 'Because every resource that the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department has to bear is going after you.' California governor Gavin Newsom called the killing 'horrific, unconscionable, and shocking.' He ordered flags at the state capitol flown at half-staff in honor of Clinkunbroomer. Clinkunbroomer, who transferred to the Palmdale station in July 2018, was a third-generation officer who followed his grandfather and father into the sheriffs department, Luna said. 'In this time of mourning, we honor this legacy and send our deepest sympathies to Deputy Clinkunbroomers fiancee, his loved ones, and the men and women of the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department,' Newsom said in a statement Sunday. 'Deputy Clinkunbroomers devotion to community and country will never be forgotten.' The sheriff said his department was working closely with representatives from the city of Palmdale, about 61 miles (98 kilometers) northeast of Los Angeles. 'Palmdale loves the sheriffs deputies, and the deputies take very good care of Palmdale and love our community back,' Mayor Laura Bettencourt said at the news conference. 'The person that did this is a coward. and they will be caught.' 'It is sickening, heartbreaking news,' Republican state Sen. Scott Wilk, who represents Palmdale, posted Saturday evening on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. California governor Gavin Newsom called the killing 'horrific, unconscionable, and shocking' Police cars block off a street where a sheriff's deputy was shot while in his patrol car in Palmdale, Calif. on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023. (AP Photo/Richard Vogel) Miguel Ruiz, center, and his wife, Sara, seated, attend a vigil in Palmdale, Calif., for Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputy Clinkunbroomer at the Palmdale Sheriff's Station on Sunday A vigil for Clinkunbroomer was scheduled for Sunday evening outside the Palmdale sheriff's station. Deputy Clinkunbroomer had eight years of experience in the police force. He transferred to Palmdale station in July 2018 and had been a field training officer for just under two years, training and supervising officers. Clinkunbroomer had reportedly dropped a trainee off at the station before he was murdered. Sheriff Luna said only 'the best of the best' became field training officers. He called the murder 'senseless' in a Facebook post. 'From everything I know about Ryan, people absolutely loved and adored him,' Luna wrote. 'Service was running through his veins. He embodied the values of bravery, selflessness and was committed to justice.' Clinkunbroomer was a third-generation deputy whose father and grandfather also served with the force. A passerby found him unconscious near Palmdale Sheriffs Station around 6pm. He was taken to a hospital where he later died from his injuries. Following Clinkunbroomer's death, police and fire staged a large procession for the fallen officer stretching from Lancaster to the Coroners Office in Boyle Heights. Colleagues and members of law enforcement also left messages in his honor. In a Facebook post, Palmdale's Sheriff Station said they had lost 'one of their own' and that the deputy 'excelled at everything he did.' 'He was very thorough in his investigations, genuinely cared for the community he served, and he was always willing to help out his partners any time they needed it,' the post read. 'We are numb with grief and are grasping to come to terms with the fact that he has left a very big void within our station family. 'Rest easy, our Hero, our friend, we'll take it from here.' The sex scandal engulfing Russell Brand has seen many in his 'cult' of supporters on YouTube and Twitter dismiss the claims as the establishment trying to 'destroy him'. The comedian and actor has 11million followers on Twitter, 6.6million subscribers on YouTube, 4million fans on Instagram and a hugely popular podcast with a lucrative 'Stay Free' merchandise range. Critics claim he has 'set up a cult' online to back him since the birth of the Me Too movement in 2017 by giving a platform to conspiracy theories including the idea that the pandemic, the Ukraine war and climate change distract from the activities of the global elite. The comic has received support online from the likes of Andrew Tate and Elon Musk and his fans were out in force at a gig in Wembley on Saturday to show their backing. Far-right radio host a Alex Jones, who owes $1.5billion in damages to the families of the victims of the 2012 Sandy Hook school shooting, said: 'The matrix is coming after Russell Brand, anybody that challenges the globalists, anybody that challenges Big Pharma, anybody thats popular, that comes out against the establishment is going to be accused of assaulting women. Now, because he comes out against the New World Order, suddenly the allegations are happening to him'. One fan said after allegations he abused women: 'Somewhere along the way Russell Brand woke up and became a powerful dissenting voice who no longer served their agenda. No wonder they are desperate to destroy him'. PR guru Mark Borkowski believes Brand has built a 'cult following' online who may be willing to back him despite the 'horrendous' accusations about his treatment of women. The comedian has strenuously denied allegations that he raped, sexually assaulted and emotionally abused multiple women. Pictured: Brand in a video released on social media denying the claims before they were released Fans insist that Brand is the victim of a conspiracy Critics believe Brand's online presence and choice of topics including conspiracy theories is a ploy Comedian Rosie Holt said: 'I guess the lesson is kids, if sexual misconduct rumours have been swimming about you for ages, set up a cult on YouTube to support you when the allegations become public'. One American writer said: 'Russell Brand has known this day was coming for him since October 2017. 'Since then, he's strategically cultivated and groomed a new mentally-malleable cult following that distrusts both women and the media so he can continue getting high on his other drug of choice the spotlight'. Another said: 'I'm aware that you guys have been saying in the comments for a while, watch out, Russell. They're coming for you. You're getting too close to the truth.' A third said: 'I've never seen women throw themselves at anybody like him [...] Nobody ever accused him of assault. Now, because he comes out against the New World Order, suddenly the allegations are happening to him.' Then, for clarity: 'I stand with Russell Brand, he's completely innocent'. The investigation by Channel 4, The Times and Sunday Times began four years ago. Around the same time he stepped back from much of his TV and movie work. In that time his YouTube subscribers has gone from around 1million to 6million. His total video view could has gone from around 100million to over 1billion since 2019. His net worth has been estimated between 15million and 40million - with YouTube experts claiming he makes $61,000-a-month from YouTube plus potentially another $100k-a-month from merchandise and paid subscriptions to his podcast. Russell Brand's subscription and video views on YouTube have exploded since 2017 He lives with his wife Laura Gallacher in their 3million riverside home in Henley, Oxfordshire. READ MORE: Police urge victims to come forward as Russell Brand is accused of rape Advertisement PR experts have said that this army of fans means that he will never be cancelled. Mark Borkowski believes that the comedian, who has been accused of rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse by multiple women, has declared war on the mainstream media. He said: 'The crimes he's been accused of are horrendous, and are damaging for him and for people were looking after him at the time'. The PR guru says some of his fanbase will stay intact thanks to the 'unfettered unregulated world of social media' - and raises serious questions for the BBC and Channel 4. Mr Borkowski said that Brand has 11million followers on Twitter alone, 6.6million subscribers on YouTube and a hugely popular wellness podcast. These fans could choose to back him. 'He [Brand] has an audience and lots and lots of people who are engaged in his content'. Russell Brand, pictured at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre on Saturday night, looks set to keep a large amount of his fanbase despite the allegations against him He added that the comedian's denial of the accusations was reminiscent of how Donald Trump deals with accusations of improper behaviour. Mr Borkowski said: 'I think there will be a profound amount of people who will stand by him. Normally with allegations like this your career would be over, but not in this case, which is interesting. 'He's a great content generator. He didn't get to the top of his profession because he's mediocre. He has the power to bewitch his audience.' Brand, 48, was accused of attacking four women between 2006 and 2013 when he was working a presenter for BBC Radio 2 and Channel 4 and later as an actor in Hollywood. Other women have made a range of accusations about controlling, abusive and predatory behaviour. Mr Borkowski said: 'It throws up questions against someone who has been allowed a certain amount of power because of his talent and his meteoric rise. 'It questions Russell Brand but also those in governance in TV. There will be a lot of people looking at themselves this morning - those people in power today won't be the same ones in power that presided over this.' Brand has since been dropped by a women's charity he was working with, while TV production companies and channels have launched probes into his alleged behaviour. Mr Borkowski added: 'There's a question whether he's going to face police action, but the question at the moment is of social media - the man isn't going to get a fair trial when the police have the evidence to prosecute him. 'More people may come forward, other people might see an opportunity. It's a very complex case, mixed between old media and social media'. He described the bite as 'a bear trap crunching my face' Sumersett is an avid surfer who headed into the water despite seeing 10 sharks the previous day The 38-year-old was left with a two-inch gash after the attack in New Smyrna Beach A South Carolina man was chomped in the face by a shark in New Smyrna Beach on September 12, leaving gaping wounds that needed around 20 stitches to close. Mark Sumersett, 38, was surfing at the jetty when he jumped off his board coming off a wave and was nipped on the side of his face. 'It was pressure, and I'll tell you that pressure, it was like a crunch,' the Charleston man told WESH. 'I heard the crunch. It felt like a bear trap crunching on my face.' New Symrna Beach is widely considered the shark bite capital of the world. Two surfers were attacked over the span of a weekend last July. Mark Sumersett, 38, jumped from his board as he came off a wave only to be met by the teeth of a shark The animal chomped down on the side of Sumersett's face, removing a two-inch chunk of flesh He was left with additional bite marks on his chin and needed 18 stitches to close the wounds The attack happened in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, considered by many to be the shark bite capital of the world 'It was the scariest thing I've probably ever been through in my life. I've been in bad car accidents. Nothing like this,' the surfer said. The attack happened at 7.50am as Sumersett arrived early to ride the swells left in the wake of Hurricane Lee. The animal took a two-inch chunk out of the right side of his face, leaving marks on his chin as well. Sumersett said he had 'intuition' he was going to get bitten after seeing around 10 sharks on his first day at the beach. 'I spoke to my girlfriend and I was like, it's crazy all these sharks here. Something is going on,' he said. The attack happened in an instant but Sumersett was terrified the animal would return. While blood dripped down the side of his face, he frantically paddled away. 'I thought that sucker was going to come back for me. I thought he was cause I was bleeding so bad,' he said. He was so focused on getting out of danger that he didn't manage to get a glimpse of the animal. "He did not see what it was but the assumption was that it was a shark," Ocean Rescue Captain Alex Miller told the Daytona-Beach News Journal. A surfer who was bitten in the face by a shark speaks out. @SamBrockNBC reports from Florida. pic.twitter.com/OmVs01snk7 TODAY (@TODAYshow) September 18, 2023 Sumersett is the seventh person to be attacked in Volusia County in 2023 The surfer said the bite will not deter him from returning to the water: 'If I die surfing, I will die a happy man' Summerset was taken to Advent Health New Smyrna Beach to be treated. Although he was still reeling from the attack, the surfer vowed it would not be his last ride. 'Heck yeah, I'm going surfing again,' he said, adding that nothing in the world made him feel better. 'If I die surfing, I will die a happy man.' His Facebook page evidences his commitment to the sport, with a bio reading 'No limits' and reposted pictures of waves and surfboards. There have been 343 shark attacks in Volusia County between 1882 and 2021, according to the International Shark Attack File. Sumersett's marks the seventh bite in Volusia County this year. Gavin Naylor, who manages ISAF, told News 13 that the county has more shark attacks than anywhere else in the world but most are not serious. Unprovoked attacks often happen when the animals mistake surfers for food. Sumersett himself suspected that his flashing gold chain may have looked like a fish. 'When people are paddling on their board, the soles of their feet catch the light and very quickly, in exactly the same way the scales on a mullet or a menhaden might catch the light,' explained Naylor. 'And when youre a predator, you dont tarry. You have to be quick and make a quick decision.' Volusia Countys earliest unprovoked shark bite was recorded in 1956 in New Smyrna Beach. There have been 32 in the US through mid-September, more than half occurring in Florida. A 14-year-old boy has been charged with the murder of an RAF cadet, also 14, who was stabbed to death in an inner-city neighbourhood. Cadet Nathaniel Shani was described as the 'kindest soul' by friends as his heartbroken family paid tribute to the boy who 'never failed to make people laugh'. Police said officers from GMP Major Incident Team charged a 14-year-old boy with Nathaniel's murder today, after he and another boy, 13, were arrested yesterday. The 14-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was remanded to appear at Manchester Magistrates Court today with a further hearing set to take place at Manchester Crown Square Court tomorrow. The other boy, 13, who was also arrested on suspicion of murder, has been released on bail. Nathaniel was killed in the Harpurhey neighbourhood of north Manchester, where he lived with his mother and sister, at about 6pm on Friday. Further details of Friday evening's tragedy have not been revealed. RAF cadet Nathaniel Shani (pictured), described as the 'kindest soul' by friends, has been stabbed to death in a Manchester neighbourhood Nathaniel was allegedly murdered in the Harpurhey neighbourhood (police pictured at the scene) of north Manchester, where he lived with his mother and sister, at about 6pm on Friday A mourner lays a floral tribute to teenage boy Nathaniel Shani who was stabbed to death In a statement, his grieving family said: 'Nathaniel was a best friend to many, he never failed to make people laugh. Nathaniel was very kind, caring and always thinking of others. 'He was polite and the most loving person. He would always put other people first without a thought. He was an amazing brother and son to his parents and siblings. 'Our hearts are left broken. Rest in Paradise to the kindest soul.' Further tributes were given by the national RAF Air Cadets, which said the 'hearts and thoughts' of all members 'go out to the family of Nathaniel Shani' - a member of its Manchester Wing. Air Commodore Tony Keeling, commandant of the RAF Air Cadets, added: 'I'm sure everyone in the Air Cadets will join me in sending sincere condolences to the family of Cadet Nathaniel Shani, who lost his life in tragic circumstance. 'We will provide the very best support we can to his family and the volunteers and cadets at his Squadron.' A relative of the teenager, who had an elder brother and sister, said: 'We're heartbroken. He was such a wonderful boy. 'What has happened is just hard to take in how can a 14-year-old with his whole life ahead of him die like that? 'There are a lot of things that happen with children and young people in this age group (that) they don't tell you about. As a parent, you don't know what is going on until something happens.' Witnesses described seeing the teenager being given CPR after emergency services arrived at the scene outside a row of shops. Carly Andrew, 33, said: 'I heard the emergency vehicles arriving and when I looked over I could see a lad on the ground being given CPR. I had to send my daughter inside the house because I didn't want her see it. 'I think it was police officers who tried to save him at first, and then the paramedics arrived.' Mary Agnew, 61, who also saw attempts to resuscitate the teenager, added: 'There seemed to be four people working on him but they obviously couldn't save him. I feel so sorry for the boy's mum.' One school friend Alice Ungureanu, 14, described him as the 'class clown', adding: 'He always made us laugh and liked joking around, and he was also kind.' Tributes left to Nathaniel at the scene in Harpurhey, Manchester yesterday Forensic officers at the scene of the stabbing in an area of Manchester blighted by gangs As floral tributes continued to be left yesterday, and prayers were said at local churches, donations on an online Go Fund Me page set up by Gaynor Lang, whose daughter was a friend of Nathaniel, reached 1,600. Nathaniel, who attended the nearby Manchester Communication Academy, was described in messages left with floral tributes as a 'kind' and 'happy' boy 'who always made people laugh'. Ms Lang said the loss of 'a young bright kind and caring boy' had 'left so many people heartbroken'. Paying tribute to Nathaniel, one neighbour, who didn't wish to be named, said: 'He was a nice lad, never any bother. 'He was always friendly when I spoke to him and got on well with people. Everyone who knew him is just in shock.' Other neighbours described Nathaniel as 'polite' and 'caring' and close to his family. Local councillor Pat Karney said: 'Everyone in Harpurhey is heartbroken for this family. We can't imagine the pain and the anguish they are going through.' And anti-knife crime campaigner Jade Akoum, the sister of Manchester private schoolboy Yousef Makki who was stabbed to death in 2019 by a friend at the age of 17, said: 'I think for me it hit home as my own son is 14 and each time it happens it seems the ages of the people carrying knives are getting younger and younger.' Mrs Akoum called for stricter sentences for knife crime, to provide a greater deterrent, and better education in schools. She added: 'If the justice system was more strict, i.e. with tougher sentences for knife offences, I think we would see a huge decrease in lives lost and young people carrying knives. 'Our hearts go out to Nathaniel's family and friends we know what they are going through and it's tragic to see kids killing kids.' Police have revealed no further details about how Nathaniel was attacked and say they are 'keeping all available lines of enquiry open'. Detective Superintendent Rebecca Boyce, of Greater Manchester Police, said: 'This incident that has seen a young boy sadly die has understandably rocked the local community in Harpurhey. 'The force and I would like to pass on our condolences to Nathaniel's loved ones and we will continue to support them at this sad time.' The trainee firefighter 'saw death' and managed to pull herself free from the burning wreckage A trainee firefighter was left with horrific burns to more than half her body after a horror training accident left her trapped in a burning dune buggy. America Salmeron, 17, narrowly escaped the inferno alive after the vehicle she was in flipped over and burst into flames last weekend. Salmeron was in the middle of a training exercise outside Las Vegas, Nevada when the accident occurred. The Californian teen managed to drag herself out from the burning wreckage before the buggy exploded, but was left with agonizing burns to more than 51 per cent of her body. Salmeron told KTLA5: 'I saw death in front of my eyes, and I didnt know what to do, but I told myself that if I dont get myself out of here, no one will.' America Salmeron, 17, was training outside Las Vegas when the accident occurred leaving her pinned inside the burning vehicle Salmeron was on a training exercise with the Pasadena Fire Department when her dune buggy flipped and exploded The Pasadena native is already a leader of her local fire crew's Explorer Program and has set her sights on becoming a sponsored cadet at the Verdugo Fire Academy. She was also due to begin an AS degree in fire science and EMT training. But her plans have been put on hold whilst she remains in hospital undergoing multiple surgeries. 'The situation that Im currently in is very hard,' she added. 'But overall, Im just trying to move forward and stay positive.' Despite her injuries, the teen is determined to finish her studies and hopes to inspire other women to become firefighters. 'I see this situation as a test, a test that God put me through, saying, You want to join the fire service? Well, let me put you through fire,' she said. 'Let me see if you still want to do it. Look, I managed to escape and Im still wanting to become a firefighter.' The teenager has been hospitalized with second and third degree burns across most of her body The Californian high school graduate has had to put her training on hold while she recovers but remains determined to achieve her dream of becoming a professional firefighter A GoFundMe page set up by the Pasadena Fire Department to aid the teen's recovery has already raised more than $30,000 for medical bills. Pasadena Fire Department Captain Arno Avakian described Salmeron as 'everything a strong firefighter should be: kind, caring, empathetic, driven to succeed' and with 'a willingness to never quit.' He said she was a 'standout' trainee who was on track to becoming a firefighter. The teen's mother, Sara Salmeron, felt confident her daughter would one day achieve her goals and described her resilient spirit as an 'inspiration.' Union is demanding pay raises and better benefits at the big three automakers The United Auto Workers union strike against Detroit's big three automakers is now on its fourth day and could cost the US economy up to $500 million by the weeks end. General Motors, Ford and Stellantis are bracing for economic impact after refusing to meet union contract demands during crisis talks at the weekend. Former CEO and chairman of Chrysler Bob Nardelli said on Fox Business Mornings with Maria that the economic impact reports are woefully underestimating the actual effect the strike will have on the economy. 'This is far bigger than just three plants on strike. Every city, every state has dealers that will be affected by this,' he said. 'This thing has broad and deep tentacles that will affect our economy.' Deutsche Bank estimated a full strike could cost each affected automaker about $400 million to $500 million per week if all production was lost. Anderson Economic Group predicts a full 10-day strike could result in a total economic loss of more than $5 billion. UAW picketers have entered the fourth day of strikes after manufactures failed to reach a deal. The union is asking for pay increases, better benefits and an end to tiered employment General Motors, Ford and Stellantis have all seen stock market price drops and are planning to resort to cost saving measures as the historic strike continues Picketers hold signs as a truck transporting Jeep Wranglers drives by the Toledo, Ohio plant on Sunday The manufacturers saw stock market price drops when trading opened Monday, after almost 13,000 workers walked off the job at once on Friday - the first time all three have simultaneously gone on strike. Ford opened at $12.52, down .75 percent, Stellantis opened at $18.94, down 1.61 percent and General Motors opened at $33.77, down .50 percent. Analysts expect plants that build more profitable pickup trucks such as Ford's F-150, GM's Chevy Silverado and Stellantis's Ram to be the next strike targets if the walkout continues. The union wants big pay increases, better retirement benefits and an end to tiered employment - demands they say the manufactures can afford to meet. UAW President Shawn Fain (pictured) said they will do whatever it takes to get union demands met Stellantis has put out counteroffer with a 21 percent pay increase which was rejected GM warned Monday that more than 2,000 workers at its Fairfax Assembly plant in Kansas could be out work this week due to material shortages jus days after Ford let go more than 600 workers. UAW president Shawn Fain said there were: 'minimal conversations over the weekend so the ball is in their court.' 'In the last decade they made a quarter of a trillion dollars in profit. The CEOs gave themselves a 40 percent pay increase over the four years,' he added on MSNBC's Morning Joe. 'They could double our wages; not raise the price of vehicles and they would still make billions in profits. This is a choice by the companies. It is nothing short of two words, corporate greed.' UAW is demanding wage increases up to 40 percent to match the CEOs and they want to restore cost of living adjustments. They are asking for a defined benefit pension for all workers and re-establish retiree medical benefits while increasing retirees pay. The union has proposed more paid time off to be with families, suggesting a four-day work week with no pay cuts. They are also asking for the right to strike over plant closures as manufacturers shut down plants to transition them into electric vehicle production. Manufactures say they have put out fair counter offers and that no one wins in a strike. Negative effects are already becoming apparent. 'It is unfortunate that the UAW leadership's decision to call a strike at Wentzville Assembly has already had a negative ripple effect, with GM's Fairfax Assembly plant in Kansas and its 2,000 team members expected to be idled as soon as early this week,' General Motors said in a statement. 'This is due to a shortage of critical stampings supplied by Wentzville's stamping operations to Fairfax. We are working under an expired agreement at Fairfax. Unfortunately, there are no provisions that allow for company-provided SUB-pay in this circumstance.' Picketers chant 'No contract, no peace!' in Wentzville, Missouri during the fourth day of UAW strikes Deutsche Bank estimated a full strike could cost each affected automaker about $400 million to $500 million per week Striking auto workers picket outside the Ford plant in Wayne, Michigan as 600 employees were let go after the first day of strikes Ford is also preparing for a Canadian auto workers strike as contract negations between Unifor, the union that represents autoworkers in Canada, and manufactures approach their deadline. Unifor President Lana Payne told CNN, 'We're not close at all. There's a lot of work to get done to get an agreement by midnight Monday.' While the strikes continue at Detroit's big three, Tesla stock is rising providing an advantage for other nonunion automakers and electric vehicles. President Biden as said he would said liaisons to help with contract negotiations, but Fain says there is no role for the administration to play. The coordinated strike comes at a time when Americans' approval of labor unions is at its highest point in decades even as membership in unions remains largely unchanged. Did you build the shack or do you know who did? What was its purpose? Email us at NewsUS@DailyMail.com The shanty house was thought to be home to a hermit and had previously included an enclosed room and a deck topped with chairs Photos show the wreckage of the driftwood home near Pacifica, California, with the roof ripped open and blue tarpaulin exposed The ramshackle three-story structure on a treacherous cliff edge at Devil's Slide has collapsed after being destroyed by a series of storms, exclusive DailyMail.com footage shows Advertisement The Californian cliffside shack that went viral last week after footage of it was posted on X has collapsed, DailyMail.com can reveal. Exclusive DailyMail.com photos show the wreckage of the three-story driftwood home that occupied a perilous position on the side of a steep cliff near Pacifica, California, until it was destroyed by a series of storms that hit the Golden State. The shanty house, which was thought to be home to a hermit, had previously included an enclosed room and a primitive deck topped with chairs, several buoys and even a punchbag. Now, the room is ripped open exposing the blue tarpaulin it was created from, while the remains of the collapsed deck straggle down towards the Pacific. The fate of the person who painstakingly built it is unknown. Slide me BEFORE AND AFTER: The ramshackle three-story structure on a treacherous cliff edge at Devil's Slide has collapsed after being destroyed by a series of storms, exclusive DailyMail.com footage shows The new DailyMail.com footage, which was taken over the weekend, proves that the shack was indeed destroyed and there is no sign of anyone still living there Photos show the wreckage of the driftwood home near Pacifica, California, with the roof ripped open and blue tarpaulin exposed The upper floor has totally caved in while the wooden walls have fallen flat and are in danger of sliding down into the water below. While a rope could still be seen leading up to the clifftop, the house appeared deserted when DailyMail.com visited with no sign of the loner who had been said to be living there. Getting to the clifftop above the house involves 1.5-mile hike along rough trails with the closest road access on the Pacific Coast Highway near the entrance to the Devil's Slide Trail. Last week, Simon Casillas, the president of the Pacifica Land Trust, told the San Francisco Chronicle that authorities were aware someone had been living at the home but he had no idea that it had collapsed. He said: 'We were aware there was something down there, but we didn't know whose it was or whose property it was on. 'It's in a dangerous location that is really not accessible.' Casillas added: 'We weren't bothering a person who wants to be a hermit. We know someone's been there but we just don't know who it is. 'The dude should just be left alone.' The ramshackle three-story structure was first spotted on a treacherous cliff edge at Devil's Slide, near Pacifica by a drone in December 2022 The upper floor has caved in while the wooden walls have fallen flat and are in danger of sliding down into the water below Getting to the clifftop above the house involves 1.5-mile hike along rough trails with the closest road access on the Pacific Coast Highway near the entrance to the Devil's Slide Trail The shanty house had previously included an enclosed room and a primitive deck topped with chairs, several buoys and even a punchbag The whereabouts of the hermit - if indeed he lived in the ramshackle property - is unknown. DailyMail.com was unable to find any record of a call to emergency services from the area in January when it is most likely to havee collapsed due to winter storms. The viral video showing an intact home was shot in December 2022 a month before a series of storms battered the Golden State. On YouTube, users had already noted the December 2022 date of the video and wondered if it had survived, with one named Dan Sullivan, writing: 'This shack has been there for many years, but it was almost completely destroyed during last year's winter/rains. 'This video was either taken before last winter, or the shack has been rebuilt over the past couple of months.' The poster who uploaded the viral footage, @ParallaxEffect, replied: 'First of all, there was no sign of someone being present from any of the footage. 'Second, the wind and waves in the winter would obliterate this. It may already be gone, the images I shot are almost a year old. 'Third, the resources needed to get all that material to that place, albeit driftwood and ocean debris, are not superficial, nor would the skill and effort required to build the structure. 'I concluded, and still do unless shown otherwise, this was done as a project by someone, or a group, during the pandemic.' The new DailyMail.com footage, which was taken over the weekend, proves that the shack was indeed destroyed and there is no sign of anyone still living there. The country mansion that inspired Richard Adams' best-selling novel Watership Down is on the market for offers in excess of 1.5million. Grade II-listed Longhills Hall in Lincolnshire was home to the writer when he was stationed there with the 1st Airborne Division during the Second World War. The story about a brave band of rabbits living in Hampshire was inspired by Adams' real-life experiences and based on the soldiers he fought with during the war. The Elizabethan manor was previously owned by the Abel Smiths, a family of prominent bankers, before it was seconded by the British Army. The house later fell into disrepair, before being restored, after the Abel Smith family decided not to return to their Palladian-style manor house at the end of the war. Longhills Hall (pictured) in Lincolnshire is on the market for offers in excess of 1.5million The country manor inspired Richard Adams' best-selling novel Watership Down The house was seconded by the 1st Airborne Division during the Second World War The manor was home to the aristocratic Curtois family for centuries before being bought by the Abel Smith family Richard Adams (pictured) lived in Longhills House after it was seconded during WW2 Prior to being bought by the Abel Smith family - whose business Smith's Bank later became part of NatWest - the Longhills estate was home to the aristocratic Curtois family for more than two centuries before. The ten-bedroom home, which dates back to the mid-17th century, is located just half a mile from the nearby village of Branston, The manor house is notable for its period charms, including its arched ceilings, ornate plasterwork and 18th century fireplaces, as well as its cellars which date back to an earlier Elizabethan home. Longhill Hall's current owners later carried out an extensive and painstaking restoration to restore the manor to its former glory over the previous decade. There are two plaques at the entrance of the property commemorating the brave soldiers of the 250th Light Company RASC (Airborne) who took part in the Battle of Arnhem. Adams was stationed there from February to August in 1944 when the division were redeployed. Watership Down started as tales Adams would tell his daughters on long car journeys and they pestered him to write it down. Although many children's books at the time avoided violence and gore, Adams was not afraid to create a dark tale that did not have a happy ending. The house was restored after it fell into a state of disrepair during second world war The Abel Smith family who previously owned Longhills House decided not to return to the home following the war The Abel Smith family's business, Smith's Bank, was subsequently merged into NatWest There are two plaques at the entrance of the property commemorating the brave soldiers of the 250th Light Company RASC (Airborne) who took part in the Battle of Arnhem. The ten-bedroom mansion is located just half a mile away from the nearby village of Branston The four story house has ten bedrooms and offers 9,789 sq ft of floorspace The rabbits' leader Hazel is inspired by Adams' commanding officer, the brave and self-effacing Major John Gifford, while Bigwig was inspired by Adams' friend Captain Desmond 'Paddy' Kavanagh, who was killed in action during the Battle of Arnhem age 25. The book was rejected by seven publishers before one-man operation Rex Collings took it on and published in 1972. The original print run was 2,500 copies, but it went on to sell over 50 million copies and won multiple literary awards. Longhills Hall has a total of 10-bedrooms, plus an additional bedroom/study and stretches across 9,789 sq ft of floorspace. The ground floor of the house a spacious kitchen/breakfast room and three large reception rooms, with an extensive four-room cellar below providing a wood store, wine cellar, workshop and storage room. The first floor offers a sitting room and four generous bedrooms, including three with en-suite bathrooms, while the second floor has another three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a cinema room, a gym, an office and a kitchenette. The mid-17th century house is considered to be a pristine example of Palladian architecture Richard Adams was stationed in Longhills House from February to August in 1944 The Lincolnshire manor was restored after falling into a state of disrepair following WW2 The house is noted for its period features including its arched ceilings, ornate plasterwork and 18th century fireplaces The house was originally home to the aristocratic Curtois family The manor house is located five miles away from Lincoln and 18-miles away from Newark Interior decorator Elaine Penhaul, who carried out the renovation of the property, said: 'I see a lot of beautiful houses in my line of work. Longhills Hall is special; I fell in love with it the very first time I saw it. 'The space and light in all the rooms are remarkable with spectacular views of the parkland from almost every window. It has been a privilege to oversee its restoration so that it is now ready for its new custodian to move in and enjoy its splendour. 'The mansion possesses such grandeur with its majestic entrance, sweeping staircase, high ceilings and floor to ceiling windows. 'We felt it was important to choose a colour palette that would acknowledge this opulence and tie in the glorious parkland setting. 'We have opted for green and earth tones that perfectly blend the inside with the out and give the rooms a calming warmth that will envelop this family home.' Adam Lascelles, from By Design, who are selling the property, said: 'Longhills Hall was already a magnificent property. Now, the restoration work undertaken this year has elevated it to an exceptional and unique home, blending period charm with contemporary considerations. 'This is an extraordinary opportunity to own more than a sophisticated and stylish home in the heart of rural England, you would be preserving a true slice of literary history.' A pregnant woman was held hostage for 13 hours in a suburban house where five tormentors bashed her, pilfered belongings while demanding ransom from the victim's mother. Adelaide's District Court heard about the terrifying ordeal on Monday during a sentencing submissions hearing for two of the perpetrators Sharon Anne Clancy, 55, and Nicole Marie Bailie, 29. The group was led by Daniel Peter Baker, 34, and Vanessa Renae Brewster, 36, who have been jailed along with accomplice Rex Lyall Clough, 34. During a February hearing the court heard how the 28-weeks pregnant victim went Baker's house in the northern Adelaide suburb of Elizabeth East on December 30, 2020. Nicole Bailie has faced court over her role in holding hostage a pregnant woman who was bashed and robbed READ MORE: Gunman fires shots at pedestrians and shoppers in terrifying scenes before the rifle-wielding man takes a hostage and police step in to end siege Advertisement Baker was demanding money from the victim and had sent her photos taken outside her father's house with instruction she hand over her own car or they would take the parent's vehicle. This led to a horrifying 13-hour ordeal where Baker and Brewster assaulted the woman, stole her jewellery and phone and forced her to sign over ownership of her car. After Clough arrived at the house the victim's mother was contacted with a ransom demand of $1000 if she ever wanted to see her daughter alive again. During Monday's hearing a victim impact statement was read out to the court by prosecutor Amy Fisher. 'How another human can think it's OK to treat an innocent person the way you treated me is something that I find extremely hard to understand,' the statement said, according to the Adelaide Advertiser. 'For the last 23 months and I expect for months to come I have fought away tears, had sleepless nights and live in fear that some day you will come after me again.' Clancy's defence lawyer Stacey Carter told the court her client had struck the victim with a torch and assisted the others in removing items from the woman's car. She said Clancy was a heavy methamphetamine user who had asked for drugs to take part in the kidnapping. The court also heard Clancy's daughter tragically died last year after a battle with cancer. Vanessa Brewster was previously jailed for her ringleader role in holding the woman hostage Rex Clough has been jailed for blackmail after he took part in demanding a ransom from the victim's mother 'Ms Clancy accepts that her behaviour is appalling and she is very genuinely remorseful,' Ms Carter said. Bailie's defence lawyer William Mickan said his client had lived a life full of trauma and had turned to drugs as a way of coping. He told the court Bailie was in rehabilitation and had the potential to pick up her previous career as a carpenter. Both women pleaded guilty to robbery and will be sentenced in November. A Sri Lankan (name withheld), an English teacher from Sainthamaruthu has urgently appealed for justice and support from Dr. (Ms) Siri Walt, Ambassador-designate of Switzerland to Sri Lanka. She alleges that she was sexually assaulted by Mohamad Millhar Mohamad Hanseer, also known as Azad Maulana, who was employed by the UN Refugee Agency and reportedly residing in Switzerland. In her letter dated September 14, 2023, she narrates a harrowing story of deceit, betrayal, and brutality and pleads for Switzerlands intervention in securing justice. On the left, Azad Maulana, portrayed as the whistleblower in Ben de Pear's recent documentary on Sri Lanka, which has faced criticism for its sources. On the right, an individual who has come forward with allegations of sexual assault involving Azad Maulana. In her letter, she details her ordeal, which began with a false marriage orchestrated by Mr. Mohamad Millhar Mohamad Hanseer, also known as Azad Maulana, and his accomplices. This false marriage was a prelude to over 10 days of repeated sexual assaults, leaving her physically and emotionally scarred. Despite filing a criminal case and ongoing investigations by local law enforcement agencies, she has faced threats and intimidation. The situation took a troubling turn when it was discovered that Mr. Hanseer had left the country and was reportedly employed by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Switzerland. This revelation has added complexity to her quest for justice, as it involves holding her assailant accountable across international borders. Siri Walt In her appeal, she implores Switzerland, a nation known for its commitment to human rights and justice, to use its diplomatic channels and influence to ensure that justice prevails. She seeks support, protection, and the opportunity to have her voice heard in her pursuit of justice. She writes, I look to Switzerland to exemplify the values of compassion, justice, and human dignity. The letter to Ambassador Dr. Siri Walt calls on Switzerland to champion the cause of justice and uphold its moral obligations in the face of cruelty and injustice. This appeal highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing crimes that cross borders and the significance of Switzerlands role in promoting human rights and justice worldwide. A 10-year-old influencer was killed in an accident when a public transportation bus plowed into the motorcycle she was riding aboard in the southwestern Colombia department of Huila. Yerly 'Susa' Lozada, and her sister, Argebis Lozada, 31, were traveling on a road linking the towns of Pitalito and San Agustin on September 12 when the driver apparently lost control of the bus and crashed into them. Local media outlets have reported that the vehicle encountered a mechanical failure before slamming into the motorcycle. Yerly Lozada was declared dead on the scene by paramedics. Argervis Lozada was rushed to San Antonio Hospital, where she remains hospitalized and is expected to be discharged Tuesday or Wednesday. Colombian influencer Yerly Lozada, 10, was killed in an accident in Huila, Colombia, on September 12 when a bus with apparent mechanical issues slammed into the motorcycle she was riding on. Her sister, Argebis Lozada, 31 survived and was hospitalized with injuries Yerly Lozada poses with her older brother, Yomar Lozada, who told DailyMail.com that the 10-year-old was the 'driving force' behind the comedic skits that the siblings filmed for social media followers in Colombia Family members carry the coffin containing the remains of Yerly Lozada, a 10-year-old influencer who was killed in an accident September 12 in Colombia 'It is something that we thought was never going to happen, something so horrible,' her brother, Yomar Lozada, 25, told DailyMail.com on Monday. 'It's a tragedy that is really painful.' The siblings were known across Colombia as 'Yomar, Tecla and Susa,' creating comedic skits for social media out of their countryside home. Yomar Lozada recalled he and his brother, Johan Lozada, 15, first started posting videos at the start of 2021 before they decided to bring Yerly Lozada aboard. The good-humored content revolved around a humble family: Argebis Lozada played the mother role while her other three siblings acted as her children. 'Susa brought joy (to the videos). I told him, 'You can do it,' Yomar Lozada said. 'She was a happy girl, very content.' Yerly Lozada had dreams of becoming a famous influencer and making enough money to build her parents a home, from where her mother could run her fried pastry business The late Yerly Lozada (center) with her sister, Argebis Lozada (left), who survived the accident and her brother Yomar Lozada The youngest of nine children the eldest died 14 years ago Yerly Lozada dreamed finding fame as an influencer and even modeling in the Andean nation. The fourth grader's main goal was to make help her siblings raise money to build their mother a home, where she could operate her fried pastry business instead of doing so in the streets. 'She had very, very big dreams,' Yomar Lozada said. 'I don't know, from one moment to the next everything changed.' He said the siblings had recently finished a video which features his late sister and have held conversations with their parents about whether to continue creating content or quitting. 'She was the driving force of the page,' Yomar Lozada said. 'So it's really hard for me because I go to the page and see. So it hits me and my brothers and my mother and father very hard.' The first pictures have emerged showing the devastation of a Russian strike submarine caused by a Storm Shadow missile. The 250 million Kilo-class attack vessel Rostov-on-Don was hit on 13 September in a repair shipyard in the Russian-held Black Sea port of Sevastopol, in annexed Crimea. The images, obtained by Conflict Intelligence Team's investigative journalists, show the scale of the damage dealt to the submarine as it sat in the dry dock. It appears to have been hit twice by missiles supplied to Ukraine by Britain and France, both of which left gaping holes in the hull and wrecked the internal mechanics. The CIT report suggests that the submarine's living compartments and other areas were also damaged, meaning the Rostov-on-Don will likely take no further part in the war. Conflict Intelligence Team shares pictures of major damage to Rostov-on-Don submarine after 13 September 2023 Storm Shadow attack on Sevastopol The images, obtained by Conflict Intelligence Team's investigative journalists, show the scale of the damage dealt to the submarine as it sat in the dry dock. Carnage on Putin's large landing warship Minsk, following Ukrainian missile attack on Sevastopol shipyard A mast aboard the Minsk is seen damaged following the strike Rostov-on-Don submarine (pictured) was put out of action in an early morning missile attack on Crimea on September 13, 2023 One large hole 'is located on top of the bow of the submarine' as indicated by previous satellite images of the stricken vessel which has been used by Putin to strike Ukraine during the war. 'The second hit was on the starboard side of the boat in the area behind the command point. 'It, unlike the first one, cannot be recorded from satellite images,' the report said. The shipyard strike also caused severe damage to the large landing ship Minsk. Some Ukrainian sources have claimed Russia has concealed the deaths of 24 people in the strike. On the same day, a 'Sea Baby' kamikaze drone damaged Russian missile hovercraft Samum near Sevastopol harbour, while a marine drone also damaged the Vasily Bykov patrol ship. The strikes on the Black Sea port come as the European Union gears up for a fight over what should be included in its 12th package of sanctions over Russia's war in Ukraine, Bloomberg News reported on Monday. The new measures, which could be presented as early as next month, would likely include the EU's version of the upcoming G7 ban on purchases of Russian diamonds and possibly a long-awaited proposal to use the profits generated by frozen central bank assets to aid Kyiv, the report added citing people familiar with discussions. Meanwhile in Russia, China's top diplomat is heading to Moscow to discuss military and security cooperation between the two nations. Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who simultaneously holds the ruling Communist Party's top foreign policy post, will be in Russia from Monday to Thursday for China-Russia strategic security consultations, the Foreign Ministry said in a brief statement. The U.S. and China are at odds over Russia's invasion of Ukraine. China has refrained from taking sides in the war, saying that while a country's territory must be respected, the West needs to consider Russia's security concerns about NATO expansion. It has accused the U.S. of prolonging the fighting by providing arms to Ukraine, weaponry that the U.S. says is needed to defend against Russian aggression. Chinese Communist Party's foreign policy chief Wang Yi will be in Moscow for security meetings this week Russian President Vladimir Putin chairs a meeting on the draft of 2024 federal budget and the planning period of 2025 and 2026, via video link at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia September 18, 2023 Wang's trip to Moscow comes a day after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un left Russia following a six-day visit that included talks with President Vladimir Putin at a far eastern spaceport, visits to aircraft plants and inspections of nuclear-capable strategic bombers and an advanced warship. China and Russia have grown closer as relations with the West have deteriorated for both, and China is looking for support as it seeks to reshape the U.S.-led international order into one that is more accommodating to its approach. Last month, it helped engineer an expansion of the BRICS partnership, which invited six more countries to join what has been a five-nation bloc that includes China and Russia. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning called Wang's visit to Russia a routine one to hold in-depth talks on major strategic security interests. Wang stepped down as foreign minister at the end of last year, taking on the more senior position of Communist Party foreign affairs chief, but was called back as foreign minister in July after his successor, Qin Gang, disappeared from public view. It's unclear what happened to Qin, but he may have fallen out of favour with the leadership. More recently, China's defence minister, Li Shangfu, also has not been seen in about three weeks, sparking speculation about his fate. It's unusual for two sitting Cabinet members to disappear from sight, although it doesn't appear to signal any obvious change in defence or foreign policy. The Chinese government has said nothing about Li's disappearance. Asked about it on Monday, Mao, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said she was not aware of the situation. When archaeologist Howard Carter found the tomb of Tutankhamun in November 1922, his first words to his wealthy funder went down in history. Asked by Lord Carnarvon if he could see anything as he peered through a small hole, Carter famously replied, 'Yes. Wonderful things', as he took in exotic treasures including the solid gold coffin that contained the body of the Egyptian pharaoh. But, although no one had set eyes on these objects in more than 3,000 years, when it came to valuing and weighing them, Carter turned to a very British jeweller. James R Ogden, who founded his eponymous family firm in 1893, travelled to Egypt's Valley of Kings and became one of the first men since Tutankhamun's death in 1323 BC to set eyes on his tomb as he carried out his task. Tutankhamun's sold gold coffin, which was just over 6feet in length, weighed more than 240 pounds (110.4kg). In a 1932 letter to Carter, Ogden valued the melted value of the coffin at just over 20,000, the equivalent of more than 5million in today's money. Now, a new exhibition at Ogden of Harrogate, which is still run by the same family, celebrates Yorkshire's amazing connection with the most amazing architectural find in history. As well as photos of Ogden during his trip, the 'Egyptomania' display includes his pith helmet and glasses and his correspondence with influential female archaeologist Katharine Woolley. James R Ogden (right), who founded his eponymous family firm Ogden of Harrogate in 1893, was asked by archaeologist Howard Carter to value and the treasures inside Tutankhamun's tomb after he discovered it in November 1922. Images of him feature in a new exhibition being held by the firm The discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb in November 1922 made headlines around the world. More than 5,000 items were found inside, including a solid gold coffin, face mask, thrones, furniture, food and wine. Pictured: A colourised image of Howard Carter examining the pharaoh's coffin By way of souvenirs, Ogden took a gold sequin from Tutankhamun's tomb, as well as two phials of consecration fluid. After news of the discovery of the 'boy king' made the news across the world, Ogden also benefited from the enormous spike in interest in all things Egypt in the 1920s and 1930s. Wealthy customers visited his Harrogate outlet in the hope of getting their hands on Egyptian-inspired jewellery. Such were his expertise in handling gold, Ogden was credited with being the 'advising goldsmith' to the British Museum in the 1930s and would later be involved in the restoration of the rarest gold artefacts. On her deathbed, Woolley had asked that all her personal documents be destroyed, but Ogden kept her letters. He worked particularly closely with her and her fellow expert husband Leonard. The couple - who only married to placate donors who objected to a woman working in the field - are never thought to have consumated their union or even slept in the same bed. Woolley worked primarily at the Mesopotamian site of Ur in what is now Iraq. As well as Carter, Lord Carnarvon and the Wolleys, Ogden was also friendly with archaeologist Max Mallowan, who was the second husband of author Agatha Christie. James R Ogden, who founded his eponymous family firm in 1893, travelled to Egypt 's Valley of Kings and became one of the first men since Tutankhamun's death in 1323 BC to set eyes on his tomb as he carried out his task. Above: Ogden (top left on a camel) is seen in front of the Great Spinx and one of the pyramids in Egypt Ogden sits on his camel in front of the Great Spinx in Egypt during his visit to value and weigh the treasures inside Tutankhamun's tomb Ogden seen with an Egyptian during his trip to value the objects in Tutankhamun's tomb Ogden (right) is seen with dozens of Egyptians while in the Valley of the Kings to weigh and value Tutankhamun's coffin Ogden was a respected gold expert when he was asked to value Tutankhamun's coffin As well as photos of Ogden during his trip, the 'Egyptomania' display includes his correspondence with influential female archaeologist Katharine Woolley Woolley (centre, next to her husband Leonard) worked primarily at the Mesopotamian site of Ur in what is now Iraq The Egyptomania expedition also displayed Ogden's pith helmet and glasses. Above: Being held by Robert Ogden Ben and Robert Ogden holding lantern slides from the exhibition Carter had been bankrolled by the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, who had only reluctantly agreed to fund the archaeologist's search for one more year in 1922 after years of what had until then proved to be a fruitless hunt. Other objects found in Tutankhamun's tomb included a gilded shrine, a large bed, a gold-emblazoned statue of the pharaoh, a dagger crafted from a meteorite and a pair of golden sandals. The tomb also contained three coffins nestled within one another. Shortly after it was discovered both the inner and middle caskets were transferred to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, while the outer gilded coffin was left behind. Howard Carter is seen examining the sarcophagus of Tutankhamun inside his tomb, which was more than 20ft underground Howard Carter is seen pointing down towards the entrance to Tutankhamun's tomb Many of the objects, including Tutankhamun's death mask, were later flown to Britain to be displayed at the British Museum's stunning 1972 exhibition which attracted more than 1.2million visitors. Robert Ogden, the great-great-great grandson of James, said: 'The history of our business is our corner-stone and we have recently been cataloguing our archive, where we have a vast collection of JR Ogden's memorabilia, including a remarkable collection of 10,000 lantern slides of his travels to Tutankhamun's tomb, and artefacts from his expeditions to Ur, Babylon, Palestine, Syria, and Assyria. 'There are also hundreds of letters that are fascinating glimpses of the key characters of that time, and their explorations.' Egyptomania, an expedition in three parts: Tutankhamun, Expeditions in Ur, and historic jewellery sales in the last 130 years, runs at Ogden of Harrogate on James Street, Harrogate, from 7-21 September. Yesterday's rainy conditions saw two inches of rain fall in just a few hours Met Office issues weather warning for rain as seven inches of rain to fall in 36hrs Britain is set for more flooding misery as eight inches of rain are set to fall within just 36 hours from tomorrow - as the country clears up after downpours left roads and homes under water. The Met Office has given yellow weather warnings for tomorrow and Wednesday, after more than a month's rain fell in 24 hours yesterday - bringing the country's record-breaking heatwave to a halt. The forecaster said that that over 36 hours '50-100 mm [2-4"] of rainfall is likely to accumulate widely, with as much as 150-200mm [5.9-7.9"] in some locations'. The warning for rain is in place from 6am tomorrow until 6pm on Wednesday. The forecaster said: 'Outbreaks of rain, heavy at times, will affect many parts of the UK on Tuesday and Wednesday. The heaviest and most persistent rainfall during this period is expected to affect the high ground of northwest England, northwest Wales and south Wales.' Chief Forecaster Steve Willington said: 'The weekend's severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, and their associated impacts, have marked a transition between the heat of last week and the more Atlantic-dominated weather in the forecast for the coming week.' Britain is set for more flooding misery as eight inches of rain are set to fall within just 36 hours from tomorrow - as the country clears up after downpours left roads and homes under water The Met Office has given yellow weather warnings for tomorrow and Wednesday, after more than a month's rain fell in 24 hours yesterday - bringing the country's record-breaking heatwave to a halt MANCHESTER: A woman holds up an umbrella during torrential rain in the city centre today CAMBRIDGE: People getting soaked during heavy showers near the River Cam todya Later in the week, heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected in places during Thursday and Friday, the Met Office has said. Deputy Chief Forecaster David Oliver said: 'Although the forecast contains the potential for further thundery showers later in the week, these are not expected to be of the magnitude of those seen over the weekend, but some localised impacts should be expected.' Britain's mini heatwave came come crashing to a close as thunderstorms and torrential downpours swept in on the tail end of an Atlantic storm. Britain is being hit by the remnants of Hurricane Lee, which pounded north-eastern US and Canada with 70mph winds at the weekend. Forecasters have warned of gale-force winds of 45mph or more from today until Thursday. The Met Office has predicted 'a band of cloud and heavy rain' which will move in from the west this evening. After temperatures hit 28C (82F) in central London on Saturday, forecasters say we have now seen the 'last breath' of summer and are facing a fortnight of topsy-turvy weather. Today a massive clean up operation is underway after monsoon-like conditions saw two inches of rain fall in just a few hours across the South West yesterday, causing flash flooding. Exeter Airport was forced to close with all flights cancelled, while motorists were trapped in their cars in nearby Dawlish. Other areas of Devon suffered power cuts amid lightning strikes, while landslips closed roads including the M5 for a short time. Warnings were last night in place for potential flooding of homes in Dawlish, Sampford Mill and Kingsbridge. Shocking footage shows a house in Corfe Fullen, Dorset, being struck by lightning in the early hours of this morning before the property becomes engulfed in flames. There was 'a loud explosion' and a flash of white light as the 400,000 home suffered a direct hit to the tiled roof. Shocking footage shows a house (pictured) in Corfe Fullen, Dorset, being struck by lightning in the early hours of this morning before the property becomes engulfed in flames There was 'a loud explosion' and a flash of white light as the 400,000 home suffered a direct hit to the tiled roof The Devon town of Dawlish (pictured) was hit with extreme floods yesterday following heavy rain Motorists in Dawlish, Devon, were left trapped in their cars due to the floods One Totnes family had their home hit by lightning and it fried the electrics and collapsed the ceiling The property was targeted at around 1.44am this morning as the first wave of thunderstorms swept through the region Britain is being hit by the remnants of Hurricane Lee, which pounded north-eastern US and Canada with 70mph winds at the weekend. Forecasters have warned of gale-force winds of 45mph or more, particularly for western coasts, from today until Thursday A woman in Dawlish walks through the mud holding a suitcase after the floods Kenton Hair Salon (pictured) is flooded leaving water and dirt covering the floor Kenton Hair Salon is pictured today after being flooded due to the bad weather Megan Farrent, 28, (pictured) stands in Kenton Hair Salon after it was flooded during the period of bad weather Thirty firefighters rushed to the residential area in Corfe Mullen, near Poole, Dorset, at 12.10am today to tackle the blaze which spread to an adjoining home. The lone female occupants of the two properties, one a young woman and the other middle aged, were awoken by the strike during last night's thunderstorms. Six crews battled for two-and-a-half hours to put out the inferno. They remained at the scene for another three hours as a precaution. Neighbour Warren Windebank, 47, a graphic designer, said: 'I saw the roof was on fire and did not know if anyone was inside. 'The door was open so I looked inside but tiles started to fall off the roof and it looked like it was about to collapse so I got out of there.' Another neighbour said: 'I was in my lounge and heard a massive explosion sound, which caused me to panic. 'I rushed outside but there was no sign of a fire, so I went back in my flat. But five minutes later I saw black smoke so I looked out of the window and saw the house on fire. 'I went outside and saw the front door to the home was open so I shouted 'is anyone in there', and a woman said she had come out.' Up to three inches of rain could fall in the wettest places, most likely to be over the hills and moors of Snowdonia, Cumbria and the Pennines. The average rainfall for the whole of September is 4.4 inches. Londoners who were kept awake by the storm took to social media this morning to report more 'flood rain' after thunder and flashes of lightning raged over parts of the country last night. Firefighters scrambled to the scene of another house in Totnes, Devon, this morning which was struck by lightning as a ceiling collapsed and electrics were wrecked. The property was targeted at around 1.44am as the first wave of thunderstorms swept through the region. The Met Office warns the country will be hit by more rain throughout today Met Office graphics paint a bleak picture across the UK this week Temperatures will be significantly cooler this week - in stark contrast to last week's heatwave Dawlish has been left muddy after he town fell underwater due to severe floods Severe floods have hit Dawlish with parts of the town going underwater following heavy rainfall Sandbags are seen outside shops after the floods in Dawlish, Devon Buckfastleigh fire station has been heavily impacted by the floods Britain is being hit by the remnants of Hurricane Lee, which pounded north-eastern US and Canada with 70mph winds at the weekend. Pictured: Buckfastleigh Fire Station Buildings are evacuated and furniture is removed in Kenton, Devon after properties were flooded Kenton, Devon (pictured) has been hit by floods which have caused devastation across the village Two people brave the rain in Bolton today, using a coat as an umbrella to protect themselves A woman's umbrella breaks in Manchester today as heavy rain continues across parts of the country A lightning bolt strikes the sea near Bournemouth Pier in Dorset as a thunderstorm passed over in the early hours of this morning A lightning bolt hits the sea at Portland Bill in Dorset early this morning Fire crews attending the incident said the occupant of the house was unhurt and had sought refuge with neighbours. A spokesman for the Buckfastleigh Fire Station said: 'This morning at 1.44am we were called along with Ashburton Fire Station to reports of a house struck by lightning in Totnes. 'The crews used two breathing apparatus to check the upstairs of the property due to a strong smell of burning. It was evident a large surge had gone through the house and plug sockets had blown off of the wall, light switches where effected and a lamp was shattered.' The firefighters said they were about to leave the Totnes property after making sure there was no further risk of fire, when they were called out to another home nearby which had been flooded overnight. The spokesman said: 'We had difficulty in reaching the property due to localised flooding so two firefighters donned water safety PPE and waded to the house to support the occupant. We utilised small tools, buckets and shovels to remove the majority of the water. 'We then installed the occupants flood defence barrier to prevent further flooding from the rain that is forecast today.' Meanwhile ambulances were trapped in their station in West Sussex when power to the electric doors failed as flying debris trashed vehicles and homes. Becki Martin said she had never seen anything like it as cars and homes were damaged along her street. The 32-year-old administrator from Littlehampton said cars and even vans were moved by the wind. 'We were all watching the storm out of the lounge window when suddenly the wind picked up incredibly fast.' Brits are facing rush-hour travel chaos after thunderstorms and torrential downpours flooded roads overnight. Pictured: Flooded roads in South East London A lightning strike sweeps across the sky this morning in Petersfield, Hampshire The floods have prompted the closure of Park Community Academy school on Whitegate Drive in Blackpool The met office issues yellow weather warning as Thunderstorms and torrential downpours hit Southampton People took to Twitter to complain and joke about the British weather today A lightning over buildings during a thunderstorm in Greenwich South East London Footage posted on Twitter last night showed thunder and lightning over Bournemouth, Dorset A neighbour in Cherry Croft was cut on the leg by flying glass, Becki said. Heavy rain and a spectacular display of lightning were reported across the Sussex coast. Ambulances in Worthing were trapped when a power cut stopped the electric doors from opening. A spokesman said: 'Power is now back on but yes Worthing Ambulance Station was affected by the local outage.' Meanwhile walls of water six feet high flooded some villages like Kenton near Exeter as the torrential rain came off hills and swamped the centre. Homes, restaurants, pubs and cinemas were among properties affected by floodwater. Betty Baldiwin, a 95 year old lady, said she thought she was going to drown early on Sunday morning as her house was devastated by the floods. Around 50 villagers in Harberton, Devon, went to her aid as the ground floor of her house was more than two feet under water. Neighbour Jonathan Bean raced out to help her at 3am after spotting torchlight in her bedroom after her power was cut as she screamed: 'I can't get out. I'm just so frightened.' Mr Bean climbed in through a window to get to Betty and comfort her in her distressed state. Betty, who will be 96 in two weeks, is now staying with friends in the village. Kenton school was forced to shut as it was also affected by the floodwater, with pupils being taught online at home. Insane lightning over London with no rain pic.twitter.com/VErTkoHRsj The Ginger Prince (@dale946) September 17, 2023 The floods also prompted the closure of Park Community Academy school in Blackpool this morning. Reporting the closure on Twitter, the school wrote: 'Unfortunately PCA has flooded this morning. We are awaiting the arrival of the electricians to ensure the buildings are safe. Please do not send your child into school until further notice.' 'Unsettled' and 'autumnal' weather is predicted later this week with more heavy periods of rain on the way. One person wrote on Twitter this morning: 'Could have sworn the weather forecast for this morning was ''a clear start to the day''. Nope flood rain! #weather.' Another wrote: 'Wish I was born in the Maldives... hate UK weather!' The Met Office last night warned of a 'danger to life' from fast-flowing floodwater shortly after temperatures hit a stunning 28C (82F) in London on Saturday. Yesterday's conditions saw more than four inches of rain fall in just a few hours across Devon and Somerset, causing flash flooding. The average September rainfall for Devon is 87 mm (3.4ins), and for Somerset is 71 mm (2.8ins). The Met Office's Jonathan Vautrey said: 'Some places could have potentially 70 per cent of the average September rain over the course of a few days as the weather system marches through. 'The 28C we saw in London on Saturday is the last breath of summer. Generally, from here on temperatures are likely to be closer to the average for the time of year. Thunderbolts and lightening, very very frightening in Brighton. @MetWatchUK pic.twitter.com/izI8RkiNsV Harry Corton (@harrycorton) September 17, 2023 In the early hours of yesterday, lightning struck a house in Totnes, which caused an upstairs ceiling to collapse Pictured is a road in Dawlish, Devon, that was flooded following torrential rain 'The thunder is occurring along a cold front which is then due to open the door to Atlantic weather brought along by the jet stream.' However, forecasters said the storm clouds could have a silver lining with hopes there will be another Indian summer at the start of October. The Met Office said: 'There is an increased chance of more settled conditions developing. 'Overall, temperatures are more likely to be above average than below, with an increased chance of some warm spells, but also some cooler nights.' Roads resembled rivers, yesterday as part of Dawlish town centre was underwater and Exeter Airport had to be closed after areas of the terminal building were inundated by flooding. Warnings were last night in place for potential flooding of homes in Dawlish, Sampford Mill and Kingsbridge, all in Devon. Yesterday afternoon, residents in Paignton battled to stop the rising water entering their homes and power cuts affected several hundred homes across south Devon. In the early hours of yesterday, lightning struck a house in Totnes, which caused an upstairs ceiling to collapse. Pictured is an area in Dawlish, Devon, hit by severe flooding Crews arriving at the scene at 2am found the occupant had recieved only minor injuries - but the huge surge of electricity had blown plug sockets off the wall and shattered a lamp. In all, flooding and landslips affected 11 roads across Devon including the M5 which had to be temporarily closed for a short time. There was also flash flooding affecting roads in Somerset, including Taunton town centre. By late afternoon, officially the wettest place was Harberton Farm, near Totnes, which recorded 84mm (3.3ins). But the Met Office said some private rain gauges had recorded over 100mm (4ins) of rain and totals for yesterday were expected to end up at 70-90mm (2..8 - 3.6ins) in areas of Devon and Somerset. The Met Office added there have been approximately 1500-2000 lightning strikes across the UK today, most of which have been in southern counties of England, and some of these where over the English Channel. Jonathan Vautrey, a meteorologist with the Meteorological Office, said: 'Some places could have potentially 70 per cent of the average September rain over the course of a few days as the weather system marches through.' Mr Vautrey said the worst of the weather is likely to be in the west, with spells of wet and windy conditions. He said: 'The 28C we saw in London on Saturday is the last breath of summer.. Generally, from here on temperatures are likely to be closer to the average for the time of year. Exeter Airport was forced to close after torrential rain flooded the terminal 'The thunder is occurring along a cold front which is then due to open the door to Atlantic weather brought along by the jet stream. 'Arriving midweek on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday are the remnants of Hurricane Lee, which by then will have settled into a more typical Atlantic weather system. 'Under the cloud and rain it is likely to be feeling relatively cool.' Temperatures in south east England could still reach 21C (70F) today MON and hover at 19-20C (66-68F) for the coming days but fall back to 16C (61F) by Friday. Further north and west, highs of 17-18C (63-66F) are possible for the first half of the week before falling back to 15-16C (59-61F). Mr Vautrey said gales are likely as ex-Hurricane Lee moves through - 'predominantly on the western coasts but potentially eastern coasts could see gales developing into the afternoon'. He added that away from high ground in the north and west, rainfall as ex-Hurricane Lee blows through is likely to be lower, at around 10-20mm (0.4-0.8ins). On Friday, into next weekend and the following week, sunshine and showers are due to predominate, 'with the possibility of heavy and localised thundery downpours' and longer spells of rain in western and northern areas. It is also due to be windy at times, 'with the potential for a spell of very strong winds' at times. But forecasters remain hopeful there could be a further Indian summer spell at the beginning of October. The Met Office said: 'There is an increased chance of more settled conditions developing, but this doesn't rule out spells of more changeable weather. 'Overall, temperatures are more likely to be above average than below, with an increased chance of some warm spells, but also some cooler nights.' Videos showed passengers standing in the flooded terminal in Devon yesterday with water up to their ankles as it was announced that all flights to and from Exeter Airport would be cancelled for the rest of the day. Flash flooding also hit the nearby seaside town of Dawlish, trapping motorists in their cars on roads inundated with water. Residents were reportedly stranded as water gushed down a major road in the area. Chaotic scenes at Exeter Airport pic.twitter.com/7rT2jOeiqI Justin Sharp (@JustinS04138161) September 17, 2023 The weather forecaster said 30-40mm of rain fall over just one hour - in a downpour that would see volumes of rain equivalent to over half the September average of 55-60mm. This meant more than 100mm of rain may have fallen by the end of Sunday in an area where the September average is 92.45mm. The UK's official forecaster warned of lightning, hail, and strong winds that would lash many parts of England and Wales last night. An amber weather warning for thunderstorms across parts of Devon and Somerset is still in place while a yellow warning covers the rest of the south-west of England and South Wales until 6pm. A similar warning was issued for London, the south-east and east of England and the East Midlands until 6am on Monday. Heavy rain brought torrential downpours across the south-west of England this morning, with localised flooding in south Devon. Areas affected by the amber warning are likely to be flooded and people should expect some disruption to travel. In some parts of southern England, the Met Office predicted that 30-40mm of rain could fall - volumes equivalent to at least half the September average of 55-60mm. There is a 'slight chance' of power cuts or that other services to homes and businesses could be lost, while some communities could also be cut off by floodwater. The Met Office said buildings could also be damaged by lightning, hail or strong winds. People planning to travel face the prospect of delays or sudden cancellations to trains and buses. Roads may be closed at short notice due to spray and sudden floods and 'difficult driving conditions' are expected on those that remain open. Met Office meteorologist Jonathan Vautrey said 'there is a chance these thunderstorms turn severe' and bring 'gusty winds with quite significant torrential rain'. They will move relatively quickly, making it difficult to pin down where exactly will be worst affected, Mr Vautrey said. He added: 'It is certainly worth keeping up to date with the forecast. 'Although the warning area covers the whole south east of England, not everywhere in that region may see the most severe thunderstorms. 'It is worth checking those things immediately before you head out on your journey so that you are aware where the most severe thunderstorms are possible. 'Make sure you are taking care as the weather could change at very short lead times, and just be prepared for those gusty winds and potentially large hailstorms.' Conditions are expected to remain 'blustery at times' early next week but are likely to be fresher. More storms are possible as the remnants of Hurricane Lee, which hit New England in the US and eastern Canada, is set to move across the UK between Tuesday and Thursday. It will no longer be a hurricane by the time it reaches UK shores. Mr Vautrey said: 'That will be getting picked up by the jet stream. Showers in places could be heavy with a risk of further thunderstorms. 'It could be quite an unsettled, autumnal week to come.' Tomorrow will see further wet and windy weather, with northern England seeing the heaviest rain. On Tuesday and Wednesday the weather will remain wet but some areas in the south will see drier spells. Cloud will be heavy for most. Marilyn Manson has been sentenced to 20 hours of community service after pleading no contest to blowing his nose on a videographer in 2019. The rocker, 54, was forced to appear in person for the hearing in Laconia, New Hampshire, where he was facing two misdemeanor counts of assault. He is accused of blowing his nose and spitting on Susan Fountain at his concert at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion in Gilford on August 19, 2019. Manson, whose real name is Brian Warner, pleaded no contest to the nose-blowing charge in a negotiated plea deal with prosecutors at Belknap County Superior Court. Prosecutors agreed to dismiss the other charge, which alleged that he spit on the videographer. The rocker, 54, was forced to appear in person for the hearing in Laconia, New Hampshire, where he was facing two misdemeanor counts of assault He is accused of blowing his nose and spitting on Susan Fountain at his concert at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion in Gilford on August 19, 2019 He was handed 20 hours of community service, which must be completed within six months, and was fined $1,400 with $200 suspended. Manson must notify local police of any performances he plans to give in New Hampshire for two years, and must remain arrest free. A police affidavit claims that Mason walked up to Fountain in the venue's stage put area, put his face close to her camera and spit 'a big lougee' at her. She had saliva on both of her hands, and was approached by Manson on a second occasion, where he kneeled and blew his nose on her arms and hands. In a victim impact statement to the court, Fountain said: 'For me, I'm a professional person and I've been in this industry for 30 years. 'I've worked for a lot of companies, and in all the years I've worked with people, I've never been humiliated or treated like I was by this defendant. 'For him to spit on me and blow his nose on me was the most disgusting thing a human being has ever done. 'I understand this was not a big criminal charge to begin with, but I was hoping that the defendant would receive a sentence that would make him think twice before doing something like this again.' Prosecutors agreed to dismiss the other charge, which alleged that he spit on the videographer Manson must notify local police of any performances he plans to give in New Hampshire for two years, and must remain arrest free Manson, whose real name is Brian Warner, pleaded no contest to the nose-blowing charge in a negotiated plea deal with prosecutors at Belknap County Superior Court A police sergeant who reviewed footage of the incident said Manson 'blows a significant amount of mucous at Fountain.' She was not present in court. During the hearing on Monday, Manson only spoke to say 'yes' to the judge's questions asking if he understood the proceeding, and made no statement. Initially he pleaded not guilty to both charges in 2021, and was meant to go on trial in August. Lawyers for the star said the type of filming Fountain was doing commonly exposes videographers to 'incidental contact' with bodily fluids. When sentencing Manson, who was referred to by his legal name in court, the judge branded his actions as 'egregious'. Manson told WMUR that he wanted to work with people in recovery during his court-mandated community service. The judge allowed him to complete it in California. He must give proof of his community service by February 4. The rocker appeared in court wearing a black suit and his signature dark hair, donning sunglasses. Prosecutor Andrew Livernois said it was his first offense and he had no prior record during the court hearing. During the hearing on Monday, Manson only spoke to say 'yes' to the judge's questions asking if he understood the proceeding, and made no statement Lawyers for the star said the type of filming Fountain was doing commonly exposes videographers to 'incidental contact' with bodily fluids If Manson had gone to trial on the charges, each could have resulted in a jail sentence of less than a year and a $2,000 fine if convicted In a court filing, his lawyer, Kent Barker, wrote: 'The defendant's performance for the past twenty years are well known to include shocking and evocative antics similar to those that occurred here. 'The alleged victim consented to exposing herself to potential contact with sweat, saliva and phlegm in close quarters.' If Manson had gone to trial on the charges, each could have resulted in a jail sentence of less than a year and a $2,000 fine if convicted. In May, a judge in California threw out key sections of Manson's lawsuit against Evan Rachel Wood, claiming she fabricated allegations that he sexually and physically abused her. The suit was filed in 2022, and claims that Wood and Illma Gore defamed Manson, intentionally caused him emotional distress and derailed his career in music, TV and film. Several women have sued Manson over allegations of sexual abuse, with the majority being dismissed or settled. He was spotted by police wearing an out-of-date armband licence card holder A leading UKIP politician who campaigned against illegal migrant workers has been fined 500 - for working illegally. Former UKIP Parliamentary candidate Paul Dowson, 55, was caught getting paid as a rogue doorman at a seaside nightspot and hit with a bill for 2,800 court costs. Dowson was paid 'cash in hand' as a security supervisor at the popular Five Arches pub in the coastal town Tenby, Pembrokeshire. Police spotted the burly bouncer dressed in black, with an out-of-date armband licence card holder and a coat with 'security' written on it, realising it was the former UKIP councillor. Former county councillor Dowson stood as a would-be MP for UKIP speaking against migrant workers. He said at the time: 'Politicians branded Wales a 'Nation of Sanctuary' and actively encourage illegal migrants to Wales. Former UKIP candidate Mark Rowson was hit with a 2,800 bill in legal costs after working illegally as a rogue doorman He was caught getting paid cash-in-hand as a security supervisor at the popular Five Arches pub in the coastal town Tenby, Pembrokeshire. Mr Dowson has previously campaigned against illegal migrant workers 'My local community, Pembrokeshire and wider Wales has suffered greatly at hands of virtue signalling policies.' At the time, UKIP's leader Neil Hamilton said: 'I am delighted to have Paul as an integral part of UKIP's election campaign.' But the court heard police swooped to discover he was not licenced to work as a door security - and he was then sacked by the nightspot owner. Security operatives working under contract are required by law to hold and display a valid Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence. Five Arches owner Matthew Perkins said: 'It was the decision of the premises that he should stop working as a door supervisor immediately.' Mr Perkins confirmed Dowson was self-employed and was paid in cash between November 2021 and June 2022. Mr Dowson was formally interviewed on 29 October 2022 by the Security Industry Authority. He agreed that he was standing outside of the door of the premises as described by the police officers but maintained that he was not engaged as a door supervisor at the premises. He suggested that he was working at the premises in a non-designated role only in relation to CCTV installations. But this was denied by the Five Arches owner. Mr Dowson, of Pembroke, denied the charge of being engaged in unlicensed door supervisor work. But he was found guilty by Haverfordwest magistrates. Presiding magistrate Iain Robertson-Steele told Dowson: 'This is a significant issue. Door supervisors are there to protect the public. They have a significant duty and are regulated by statutory authority. 'That shows a disregard for the law and for those you were meant to be protecting.' 'You knew all that, but you knowingly went ahead and continued to work. This is an imprisonable offence, but we've decided against that.' He received a 12-month Community Rehabilitation Order with 10 days Rehabilitation Activity Requirement (RAR), a fine of 500, and a Victim Surcharge of 114.00 contribution to prosecution costs of 2,587.50 Mr Dowson received a 12-month community rehabilitation order and a fine of 500 on top of a victim surcharge and legal costs Dowson was previously banned as a Pembrokeshire councillor after he 'bullied' a fellow councillor with bogus sex accusations Mark Chapman, one of the SIA's Criminal Investigations Managers said: 'Paul Dowson's case is an example of what happens when individuals choose to work when not licensed to do so. 'Dowson continued to work without a licence, putting the security of the venue's patrons and staff at risk. As a result, he now has a conviction with substantial costs to pay. 'I'd like to acknowledge the contribution made to the investigation by our law enforcement partner, Dyfed Powys Police. They were exemplary in supporting the SIA to bring this case to court.' Dowson was previously banned from being a Pembrokeshire councillor for making bogus sex accusations about fellow councillor Joshua Beynon after they clashed during town hall meetings. A misconduct panel ruled Mr Dowson had 'bullied' Labour member Mr Beynon by repeatedly saying he shared a pornographic video of a girl under the age of 17. He also wrongly claimed new sex education lessons in Wales would teach 'three-year-olds about masturbation' and '13-year-old boys and girls about anal sex'. The ex-Pembrokeshire County Councillor also made false online statements about members of the public, claiming one was a violent criminal who spent three years in jail and another was on the sex offenders register. Mr Dowson, who runs his own TV and aerial business, has now been banned from holding any form of public office for three years by misconduct body the Adjudication Panel for Wales. Mr Dowson had previously been censured by standards chiefs for sharing material 'likely to be considered racist' in response to the Black Lives Matter movement. She was accused of 'assault' after she tapped a staff member on the arm for assistance A New York student who has been held in Dubai for two months faces jail after she tapped an airport security officer on the arm during a search. Elizabeth Polanco De Los Santos was accused of 'assaulting and insulting' airport staff on July 14. The 21-year-old had been travelling from Istanbul to New York stopping off at Dubai for the connecting flight. She had planned a quick holiday after undergoing surgery and was wearing a waist trainer as part of her recovery. But during the 10 hour stop over, the Lehman College student was told by security she would need to remove the medical device. Elizabeth Polanco De Los Santos, 21, was travelling from Istanbul to New York via Dubai when she was asked to remove her medical waist trainer by airport staff for a security search De Los Santos claims the women gave her 'nasty stares' and were laughing in Arabic at her swollen wounds. She needed help getting her compressor back on and tapped a security woman for help. But the student was then detained for allegedly 'touching the female customs officer' during the search. 'We thought it would be a more modern and futuristic city but we were completely wrong,' she said. 'I was feeling uncomfortable and afraid. I felt really violated. 'There are many many pins and you need to stretch the edges and clip small skinny pins together close to the body 'I felt really embarrassed and taken advantage of.' De Los Santos was kept in a room for several hours as the officer filed a complaint against her. De Los Santos said she was left half naked and 'humiliated' by the search and reached out of a security officer for help She then signed a form in Arabic and was allowed to leave the airport but a few hours later she was slapped with a travel ban. De Los Santos, who also works as a retail manager, was ordered to pay a 10,000 AED fine ($2,722). Despite paying the hefty sum which usually serves as punishment custom officials appealed her sentence. Dubai courts automatically allow appeals whether or not there is merit. They have scheduled the next hearing for October 23. De Los Santos has been advised that regardless of the outcome, the prosecution can appeal again and force her to remain in Dubai until the matter is settled. Elizabeth's mother has begged officials to let her daughter return home so she can resume necessary medical care. Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai and Due Process International said: 'She is under the most incredible stress which is impacting her physical and mental health, disrupting her entire life and scarring her long term. TikTok star Tierra Allen (above) was also detained in Dubai after allegedly shouting at a car park employee Staff at the Dubai airport accused De Los Santos of assaulting a security officer she touched on the arm and she has been held in the UAE ever since 'This is simply no way to treat visitors. It's outrageous. 'They either want her in jail or they want to pressure her into making a compensatory payment to them. 'Tourists have long been exploited by locals who seek to punish and extort them as a secondary form of income. 'Compensating complainants only exacerbates the situation. 'The government of Dubai should stop this type of corruption by banning government employees from being able to accept out of court settlements for criminal complaints. 'It is too much of an incentive to people in positions of power, resulting in incidents like this which damage the reputation of the UAE as a safe transport and tourism hub'. The US Consulate in Dubai confirmed it is aware of De Los Santos' situation. A State Department spokesperson said: 'The U.S. Department of State and our embassies and consulates abroad have no greater priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas. 'We are aware that a U.S. citizen, Elizabeth Polanco de Los Santos, is unable to depart Dubai. 'We take seriously our commitment to assist U.S. citizens abroad and are providing all appropriate assistance. 'The Department is in communication with her and her family. We will continue to monitor her case closely.' De Los Santos' legal battle comes after TikTok influencer Tierra Young Allen was held in the same country for three months earlier this year for 'shouting' at a car park employee. Netflix's new true-crime documentary will delve into the unsolved murder of journalist Jill Dando, who was shot dead on her doorstep in Fulham in 1999. The Somerset-born journalist landed her first job in her hometown Weston-super-Mare and was best known for presenting BBC programmes, including Crimewatch, Breakfast Time and the Six O'clock News. On July 2, 2001 Barry George was convicted of Dando's murder but his conviction was quashed in 2007 by the Court of Appeal. Nearly 25 years later the case remains a mystery, and the new documentary revisits the events surrounding Dando's death. The three-part series 'Who Killed Jill Dando?' is set to be released on the streaming platform on September 26. But who is Barry George? Here is everything you need to know ahead of Netflix's new docuseries. Netflix 's new true-crime documentary will delve into the unsolved murder of journalist Jill Dando, who was shot dead on her doorstep by a single bullet Barry George (pictured, 2023) was found guilty of Dando's murder two years later following one of Britain's largest police investigations. And was acquitted years later in 2008 Who is Barry George? Barry Michael George was born in West London on April 15 1960. He attended a school for children with educational and behavioral problems and by the age of 16 had left education with no qualifications. On July 2, 2001, Mr George was found guilty by a majority of 10-1 for Dando's murder. Dando was shot and killed by a single bullet in the head as she reached her front door in Fulham at approximately 11:32am on April 26, 1999. She is thought to have died instantly. He spent eight years in prison for her murder before it was quashed in 2008 after several appeals. Barry Michael George was born in West London on April 15 1960, he attended a school for children with educational problems and left with no qualifications On July 2, 2001, Mr George was found guilty by a majority of 10-1 for Dando's murder murder What was he accused of? Dando's death became one of Britain's most notorious unsolved murders and sparked one of the biggest police investigations of all time. READ MORE: The photo that led to innocent man being jailed for the murder of Jill Dando Advertisement The investigation saw 1,393 potential suspects, 500 hours of CCTV footage, a 250,000 reward and the quashed conviction of Mr George. After a year of fruitless investigation, attention turned to Barry George, who lived around half a mile from Dando's home and had a history of stalking women and sexual offences. Just a day after Ms Dando's killing, police received an anonymous call concerning a 'mentally unstable man' who lived just 500 yards from the presenter's home. As a result of that, police had made an order for the tracing and identification of Mr George, who was then known as Barry Bulsara. A photo of Mr George wearing a gas mask, a leather jacket and holding a blank-firing pistol raised suspicions of police officers. Barry George lived around half a mile from Dando's home and had a history of stalking women and sexual offences, police traced him down after receiving an anonymous report of a 'mentally unstable man' who lived 500 yards from the TV presenter's home The picture was found in his flat among thousands of images of women he had stalked in West London, which contributed to his conviction. Metropolitan Police were able to build a case against him after officers had found a single grain of gunshot residue in his coat pocket. In 2008 Mr George was able to secure a retrial and was unanimously acquitted by a jury. What happened to Barry George and where is he now? Following his acquittal, Mr George lost all compensation bids for the eight years he spent in prison for being wrongly convicted of the TV presenter. He claimed to be the victim of a 'miscarriage of justice' but judges agreed with a minister that Mr George was 'not innocent enough' to be eligible for a pay-off. The decision at the Court of Appeal followed the dismissal of his compensation claim by two High Court judges in January 2013 who said he had 'failed the legal test' to claim a pay-off. Following his acquittal for the murder of Jill Dando (pictured) Mr George has lost all compensation bids after being judged 'not innocent enough' In 2010 Mr George fled for a new life in the Republic of Ireland for a quiet life and said he was being subjected to police harassment. Speaking on Netflix, Mr George said: 'It makes me angry that they have taken eight years of my life.' The new series will showcase old police interview footage of Mr George. In the trailer, Mr George - is seen being asked about the picture by detectives after his arrest on suspicion of murder. When he says 'it could be anyone', they reply: 'That's a picture of you Mr George.' Video shows Johnston pleading with her attacker to stop while cowering in a corner of the store Six suspects, some thought to be teenagers, escaped in a stolen Kia and Hyundai after taking candy, cigarettes and less than $100 from the register Footage shows Leah Johnston punched in the head repeatedly, kneed in the stomach and kicked to the ground at Friendly Normandy Market A female gas station cashier in Washington state had no time to react amid an onslaught of punches and kicks to the face and head during a violent robbery. Leah Johnston was attacked by six suspects, some thought to be just teenagers, while working at Friendly Normandy Market in Normandy Park on September 15. The gang piled cigarettes and candy into their arms and stripped the register of cash before escaping. 'Kids don't seem to fear anything anymore,' Johnston told FOX 13. 'There's like, no repercussions for them the way there used to be.' The thieves were laughing as they raided the shelves and one of them landed blow after blow on Johnston, even after she cowered on the floor. 'I know of people who have been robbed, I know in the back of my mind it can always happen. But I never thought that I would be attacked the way I was attacked,' Johnston said. 'I mean, my face hurts. But my pride I think hurts more.' Leah Johnston was working at Friendly Normandy Market when she was ambushed by a group of six thieves wearing masks and hoods Security camera footage shows the moment Johnston was attacked by one of the suspects, who began punching her in the face Some of the suspects are thought to be teenagers. They made their escape in two stolen cars The attack, which was captured on a security camera inside the store, lasted about 20 seconds but is brutal to watch. Footage shows the moment one hooded suspect runs at the cashier and begins to punch her in the face while three others flock to the shelves to grab merchandise, scattering it across the floor. A fifth suspects rummages through products on the other side of counter. A man clad in a sweatshirt with a decal reading 'PRIMITIVE' on the back meanders over to the cash register and begins to toy with it until it opens. Johnston cowers, turning away and covering her face to defend against the blows. Her attacker then begins kneeing her violently in the chest and punching her in the head until she falls to the ground. The suspect continues to kick her until he notices the suspect at the cash register has taken all the bills, then follows the others out of the store. At one point Johnston pleaded for her assailant to stop as she wasn't fighting back. Using her arms to cover her face, the cashier attempted to defend herself She was eventually knocked to the ground and kicked repeatedly while the suspects stripped the shelves of merchandise Johnston KIRO7 that she would not 'let them win' and would return to work following a break The suspects took tobacco products, candy and less than $100 in cash. 'It's just amazing that they would do it for as little as they got,' Johnston told KIRO7. The cashier planned to take time away from work following the brutal assault but vowed to return. 'I'm not walking away from my job. I like this community. I like the people and I love my job,' Johnston said. She added that the store was planning to increase security measures to prevent future attacks. Normandy Park Police Chief Dan Yourkoski said a special unit of the King County Sheriff's Department was assisting in the investigation. He told Dailymail.com that the incident happened at around 9pm, when six suspects described as juvenile or young adult black males assaulted the clerk with closed fists before stealing money from the till as well as products from the store. 'The investigation is continuing to identify and hold accountable those responsible,' Yourkoski said. 'Thankfully the clerk was not seriously hurt.' Police did not believe a weapon was used in the attack. None appeared in the security footage. The robbers took candy, tobacco products and less than $100 from the cash register Johnston said the store would increase security measures in light of the attack The suspects were driving a stolen Kia and Hyundai, both of which were later recovered. The makes of the cars are significant as they were subject to a spate of thefts after a TikTok trend instructed youths on how to start them using just a screwdriver and a USB cable. The trend started in 2021 with a 'how to' video by a pair of masked individuals called 'Kia Boyz.' They showed how to hotwire a Kia by opening the steering column with a screwdriver and sticking the USB into the ignition cylinder. Kia and Hyundai models manufactured between 2011 and 2021 are missing engine-immobilizer systems which makes them vulnerable to attacks. A class-action lawsuit filed in Iowa in August of last year said the cars were 'easy to steal, unsafe, and worth less than they should be, if they did not have the defect.' Los Angeles officials said the viral trend led to an 85% increase in car theft of Hyundais and Kias in 2022. In Prince George's County, Maryland, police said stolen Kia and Hyundai cars made up nearly one-sixth of all thefts in 2022 and nearly half of all thefts as of January 2023. Republicans are blasting President Biden for 'dumb as a rock' $6 billion prisoner swap allowing two of the Iranian prisoners to remain in the U.S., saying it will only encourage more Americans to get taken hostage. On Monday, five U.S. prisoners were released by Iran as part of a controversial prisoner swap that unfreezes billions in Iranian assets. Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., called the swap orchestrated by the Biden administration an 'embarrassing appeasement.' 'Two of the five Iranians released as part of this terrible deal will stay in the U.S. Joe Biden's embarrassing appeasement not only makes Iran stronger, it makes America less safe,' he wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. The senator wrote a letter to Secretary of State Blinken Monday obtained by DailyMail.com demanding more information about the release of the five Iranian agents, including the two that plan to stay in the U.S. Former President Donald Trump took to his Truth Social platform to lament the administration's deal, calling Biden 'dumb as a rock' for the agreement, which he says will encourage future hostage taking. 'I brought 58 HOSTAGES home from many different countries, including North Korea, and I never paid anything. They all understood they MUST LET THESE PEOPLE COME HOME! Toward the end, it got so that countries didn't even start the conversation asking for money, because they knew they would not get it.' The funds were originally frozen in South Korea in 2018 by Trump. US citizens Siamak Namazi (C-back), Emad Sharqi (bottom-L) and Morad Tahbaz (bottom-R) disembark from a Qatari jet upon their arrival at the Doha International Airport in Doha on September 18, 2023 From left, Morad Tahbaz, Siamak Namazi, and Emad Sharghi walk away arm in arm from a Qatar Airways flight that brought them out of Tehran and to Doha, Qatar, Monday, Sept. 18, 2023. 'Once you pay, you always pay, & MANY MORE HOSTAGES WILL BE TAKEN. Our grossly incompetent 'leader,' Crooked Joe Biden, gave 6 BILLION DOLLARS for 5 people. Iran gave ZERO for 5. He's Dumb as a ROCK! Trump was among the first to criticize the agreement when details of it became public on 9/11, an ill-timed announcement that was widely panned for being insensitive. The Biden administration insists there are 'guardrails' on what Iran can spend the money on, but Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi said this week that Iran would decide how the money would be spent. Iran has been labeled by the State Department as a state sponsor of terrorism, which restricts the U.S. from providing foreign assistance, defense sales and other financial restrictions. Under the agreement, Doha agreed to monitor how Iran spends the unfrozen funds to ensure the cash is spent on humanitarian goods, such as food and medicine, and not any items under U.S. sanctions. Only three of the five released U.S. prisoners have been named publicly. They are businessmen Siamak Namazi , 51, and Emad Shargi, 59, and Morad Tahbaz, 67, an environmentalist who also holds British citizenship. All had been imprisoned in Iran for eight years on what the Biden administration says are unsubstantiated spying charges. Among the Iranian prisoners is Reza Sarhangpour-Kafrani, a dual U.S.-Iranian citizen who was jailed in February for supplying the Central Bank of Tehran with computer equipment and technology through a front company in the UAE, and, who was caught obtaining equipment that could be used in missiles and electronic warfare. The White House has defended the deal and Biden praised the return of 'five innocent Americans' back to the United States. 'And as we welcome home our fellow citizens, I once more remind all Americans of the serious risks of traveling to Iran. American passport holders should not travel there,' said Biden in a statement Monday. 'Reuniting wrongfully detained Americans with their loved ones has been a priority for my Administration since day one.' But Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, called it a 'metaphysical certainty' that the $6 billion will be 'used to fund terrorism.' 'Why? Because Iran is the leading state sponsor of terrorism in the world,' he said on his Verdict podcast last week in a discussion with co-host Ben Ferguson. 'This creates an incentive for every tin pot dictator in the world to seize more Americans. They're setting the going rate at $1.2 billion per American hostage. More Americans will be taken hostage because of this and to do it on the anniversary of 9/11 is disgusting and it's dangerous.' House Foreign Affairs Chairman Michael McCaul, R-Texas, told DailyMail.com in a statement that he is 'very concerned' with how the detail 'incentivizes future hostage-taking.' 'Even though the Administration claims these funds are limited to humanitarian transactions, we all know that transactions are difficult to monitor and that money is fungible. There is no question this deal will free up funds for Iran's malign activities,' McCaul continued. Former President Donald Trump took to his Truth Social platform to lament the administration's deal, calling Biden 'dumb as a rock' for the agreement, which he says will encourage future hostage taking Siamak Namazi, Morad Tahbaz and Emad Shargi, who were released during a prisoner swap deal between U.S. and Iran, arrive at Doha International Airport, Qatar September 18, 2023 Iranian prisoner swaps Reza Sarhang Pour and Mehrdad Moein Ansari at Doha airport in Doha, Qatar, September 18, 2023 He warned all Americans against traveling to Iran because the 'risks are far too great.' Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., slammed Biden for timing the announcement of the prisoner swap on the 9/11 anniversary. 'The United States should never fund terrorism. Yet, on the anniversary of 9/11, Joe Biden handed over $6 billion to Iran to reward the regime for wrongfully detaining American citizens.' In a statement to DailyMail.com, she said it is 'also concerning that Biden is allowing two Iranian prisoners released from jail to remain in the USA.' 'Under this administration, our enemies are getting stronger.' Rep. Mark Green, R-Tenn., - who chairs the House Homeland Security Committee - has called the deal a 'slap in the face' to 9/11 victims' families. 'President Biden should be ashamed,' he wrote on X last week. North Korea is converting 400 of its 1950s era MiG-17 and MiG-19 fighters into cruise missiles. North Korea is the last nation to still have many of these aircraft in service, mainly because North Korea cannot obtain any additional modern aircraft. The North Korea Air Force consists of about 1,300 Cold War era Russian and Chinese aircraft, about half of them combat planes. The Chinese aircraft are knockoffs of older Russian designs, and most of the North Korean fleet consists of aircraft designs that were getting old in the 1970s. North Korean Air Force training exercises with the MiG-17s and 19s are rare because these elderly aircraft are difficult to keep flying. That means pilots get very little time in the air and only have basic flying skills. This is common throughout the North Korean air force and explains why the North Korean Air Force can barely fly and hardly fight. The Russian MiG-19 (over 2,200 built) is an 8.8 ton, single engine, single seat aircraft with a max speed of 1,500 kilometers an hour. It only carries a half ton of bombs and was designed over 70 years ago. The MiG-19 is an improved (supersonic) version of the MiG-17, which entered service in 1952 and weighed six tons. Three years later the MiG-19 appeared. Currently, North Korea is the only country still using MiG-17s and MiG-19s but has a difficult time keeping them flyable. North Korea obtained 40 used MiG-29s in the 1980s and considers them their best jet fighters. The MiG-29s have more experienced pilots and fly more often. Turning 400 older MiGs into cruise missiles will mean more resources for the MiG-29s. South Korea considers the North Korean air force more of a nuisance than a threat and plans to destroy most North Korean aircraft in the air or on the ground, including the caves where many are kept, in the early stages of any future war. North Korea seeks to avoid this by using most of these aircraft first in a surprise attack and holding back some of them, safe inside tunnels. South Korea has plans to deal with all that but will not, for obvious reasons, discuss details. North Korean Air Force training exercises often feature the loss of a MiG-17 or MiG-19. The most modern aircraft the North Koreans have are 40 MiG-29s they got in the 1980s, when they were still getting gifts from the Soviet Union. The rest of their combat aircraft are poorly maintained and infrequently used antiques because of fuel and spare parts shortages. Ruby Franke's sister has broken down in a video in which she blamed the YouTube influencer for causing their mother's heart attack - and revealed how she 'destroyed' their lives offline. Bonnie Hoellein teared up as she said their mother's health rapidly declined when Ruby cut her family off - before her sister was sensationally arrested for child abuse. Franke gained millions of YouTube subscribers and online followers through her 8 Passengers channel about parenting but viewers repeatedly complained about the way she treated her children. The 41-year-old was charged with six felony counts of abuse, along with business partner Jodi Hildebrandt after being arrested on August 30. Hoellein, also a YouTuber who is based in Utah, posted the nearly 10-minute long video titled 'I am not my sister. I am not my Sisters [sic] Crimes.' Bonnie Hoellein, teared up as she said that sister Ruby Franke 'destroyed' their family's lives offline before she was sensationally arrested for child abuse. The Utah-based YouTuber posted the nearly 10-minute long video titled, 'I am not my sister. I am not my Sisters [sic] Crimes' Mormon YouTuber Franke (pictured with her daughters) was taken into custody under suspicion of two counts of aggravated child abuse earlier this week Franke's sister told the camera: 'I am mad at what has happened, I am beyond disgusted, and I feel like it makes me tremble. 'It makes me tremble because this is unheard of, it is truly unbelievable. Something that I pride myself on, something that I enjoy doing, is being transparent and I cannot be fully transparent with certain aspects of this. 'And if you don't understand that then you don't understand how the system works. The first thing that I want to say is that we have kept quiet for three years on the topic of our sister Ruby and Jodi and Kevin. 'We did not know what they were doing because like we said we were cut off. We did not have access to anyone. 'When I say that Ruby and Kevin and Jodi and ConneXions have been destroying our lives offline for the last three years, that is exactly what they've been doing. 'Causing turmoil within our family.' She added: 'Three years ago Ruby and Kevin cut our family off and eventually they cut Kevin's family off as well. 'I thought that was going to end my mom, she literally had a heart attack, she went into kidney failure, her body was shutting down because it broke her. 'So you can only imagine what she is going through now how we are all feeling now. 'I will not let Ruby and Kevin and ConneXions and Jodi take one more thing away from me. 'I will continue to post because if that is what tiny control I have left, I'm going to take it.' Franke's husband, Kevin Franke, who she shares six children with - Shari, Chad, Abby, Julie, Russell and Eve - has said he is 'trying to keep his children together' following the arrests. The video came after all three of her sisters - who are all YouTubers - posted a joint statement to Instagram which said: 'For the last 3 years we have kept quiet on the subject of our sister Ruby Franke for the sake of her children.' Ruby Franke, (left) who ran the now-defunct 8 Passengers channel, was arrested along with her business partner Jodi Hildebrandt (right) Kevin Franke (right) has said his 'urgent focus' is to keep his six children which he shares with former YouTuber Ruby Franke (left) together under his care The sisters are also YouTubers and said they 'wouldn't feel right about moving forward with regular content without addressing the most recent events'. 'Once we do, we will not be commenting on it further,' the statement said. 'Ruby was arrested which needed to happen. Jodi was arrested which needed to happen. The kids are now safe, which is the number one priority.' Franke was taken into custody after the two children were found starved with open wounds and duct tape on their 'extremities'. Police were called after a child climbed out of the window of Hildebrandt's home and ran to a neighbor pleading for food and water. The neighbor saw the child's wounds and immediately dialed 911, before another child was also found 'in a similar physical condition of malnourishment'. Since the arrests, an online form has been set up which documents examples of worrying statements made by Franke and Hildebrandt in their videos. Her estranged daughter, Shari, has since said police were warned for years about the allegations before they 'finally' acted. Her daughter, Shari, has now claimed relatives have been 'trying to tell the police and CPS for years about this', adding that she was 'so glad they finally decided to step up' and the kids were safe. She posted the message to Instagram with a photo of police outside the home captioned 'finally'. Franke's eldest daughter Shari, 20, posted about her mother's arrest on Instagram, sharing an image of police officers outside the home captioned 'Finally' This comes after a relative of Franke said the news of her child abuse case is 'disgusting' but the problem is 'bigger than people know.' The unnamed cousin of Franke claimed this is not the first time their family has experienced this behavior. Other members have also duct-taped, handcuffed and starved kids. They described the unprovoked child abuse and slapping that took place in their house as a child - and said that after watching Ruby's YouTube channel 8 Passengers briefly, they said they noticed Ruby's same mannerisms. Abusing children, being physical, and withholding food is something that has been a 'multi-generational' problem in the Franke family, claimed the cousin. The full statement from Franke's three sisters, which was posted across their Instagram pages Franke (seen with her husband) is well-known for her strict parenting style on the channel, which she stopped uploading footage in January 2022. It was taken down earlier this year The family member - who said the charges of child abuse are 'disgusting' - said their entire family tree 'from the roots to the branches' is 'blighted.' The cousin of Franke, whose identity was concealed, told Law & Crime: 'I'm not shocked. It's not a shock at all. The direction in which it went was not what I thought, but from which it came was to be expected. 'I wasn't expecting some of the details in that story to line up with details in my own family history. 'My mother handcuffed my sisters when they were young, and a lack of food wasn't uncommon, but it wasn't out of the lack of money and there was a time when it could have been prevented and it wasn't.' 'All I can say is my mother did duck tape my siblings. I'm not shocked.' Asked when was the last time they saw Ruby, they said: 'When I was very young, it was a long time ago. Over 15 years ago.' Shocking extracts from the medical records of a woman who claims she was raped by Russell Brand in his Los Angeles home have been revealed. The alleged victim, one of four to speak out, claims that the comedian, 48, raped her up against a wall after she refused to have a threesome with him and that he told her 'I'm not going to hurt you' before the attack. The woman, in her 30s at the time of the alleged attack in 2012, was treated at a rape crisis centre on the same day, according to medical records seen during an investigation by The Times, The Sunday Times and Channel 4 dispatches. Nadia did not report the alleged rape to police at the time but she gave her underwear and other samples as evidence, which were frozen. She also received therapy sessions at the UCLA Santa Monica Medical Centre's Rape Treatment Center for the following five months. The notes from her time in the centre state that a Los Angeles Police Department officer was alerted, that the businesswoman, who The Times is calling Nadia, was 'intermittently tearful and seemingly overwhelmed' and that her main concern was having her name 'dragged through the dirt' due to Brand's fame. Shocking extracts from the medical records of a woman who claims she was raped by Russell Brand in his Los Angeles home have been revealed Extracts from Nadia's medical records obtained by The Times, Sunday Times and Channel 4 Dispatches Screen grab taken from Channel 4 Dispatches clip of Nadia - or an actress playing Nadia - speaking about her harrowing experience of allegedly being raped in LA by Brand Brand could yet face prosecution in the US over the alleged attack because in September 2016, California lawmakers approved a new bill to eliminate the state's 10-year limit on filing rape and related charges after dozens of women accused disgraced comedian Bill Cosby of sexually assaulting them in the past. Extracts from Nadia's medical notes The following extracts from Nadia's medical notes were obtained by The Times: Victim declined to make a report to law enforcement, but LAPD West Hollywood Division Officer [name redacted] was contacted and alerted that the victim was at the RTC reporting a sexual assault. Victim presented as friendly and engaging, but intermittently tearful and seemingly overwhelmed. Victim's primary concern while at the RTC was protecting her reputation as she was worried that, if her assailant's name was somehow released, then her name will be dragged through the dirt'. ...doing the closing ceremony at the Olympics... when unfortunately it came on the TV and she had to be subjected to his singing for a period of time. [Name redacted] stated that she becomes very angry when the public is 'adoring' him, wanting to shout out that he is a rapist. 'After she refused, the assailant repeated, 'I'm not going to hurt you' and started kissing the victim again. Per victim, she attempted to leave his home, but he would not allow her to do so as he was blocking the door.' 'She is often triggered as she sees assailant on TV and on billboards.' Advertisement The medical records, first written up on July 1, 2012, describe how Nadia went over to the unnamed assailant's house earlier that day before he kissed her. The notes said: 'After several minutes, the assailant said, 'You know I'm going to take care of you, that I'm not going to hurt you, right? Are you ready for an adventure?' 'Per victim, she learned that the assailant was referring to a sexual adventure that included other women. Victim reported that she was appalled and refused to engage in any sexual acts that involved other women.' Details of the alleged attack have now been unsealed in the medical notes. It reads: 'After she refused, the assailant repeated, 'I'm not going to hurt you' and started kissing [the] victim again. 'Per victim, she attempted to leave his home, but he would not allow her to do so as he was blocking the door.' The medical records also reveal how the alleged rape victim had to watch Brand appear on top of a bus during the closing ceremony at the London 2012 Olympics. She is also said to have become 'very angry' with the public 'adoring' him and that she wanted to 'shout out that he is a rapist.' A write-up from her second session stated that Nadia 'is a woman who has prided herself in her independence' and 'so it has been difficult for her to accept that a man she thought she could trust raped her'. Although Brand's name is not used in the notes, there are references that correlate with his life during that period. Nadia is said to have been 'triggered' by seeing the alleged rapist's face on TV and billboards. Nadia claims she exchanged numbers with Brand at a party before being invited to his house in June 2012 where they went on to have consensual sex. She met up with Brand again at his house on the morning of July 1, during which she alleges that the comedian raped her. Text messages from a number - that The Times says it has verified was Brand's at the time - show that he messaged her that same morning at 3.29am, saying 'I'm sorry, that was crazy and selfish'. She said she got into the shower after arriving home and felt unable to move and could not sleep. She did not reply to Brand's text until 10.59am where she said: 'You scared the s*** out of me. You're right I am a lovely person and for you to take advantage of me like that in unexpectable [sic].' Brand replied that he was 'very sorry and embarrassed'. The businesswoman said she met up with Brand at his LA house where he pushed her against a wall and raped her. Brand could face justice in the US due to a law change in 2016. (Screen grab taken from Channel 4 Dispatches trailer) Russell Brand on Big Brother's Little Brother on May 31, 2006. Brand presented Big Brother's Big Mouth for three years before choosing not to return for the eighth series of the show Russell Brand is seen posing with Burlesque dancers Vanessa and Valeria at The Brit Awards 2007 Valentine's Day photocall, Earls Court, London, on 13 Feb 2007 Former spouse Katy Perry and Russell Brand attend the 82nd Annual Academy Awards in LA on March 7, 2010 Brand (pictured in 2008) said that during his 'time of promiscuity, the relationships I had were absolutely always consensual' and that he was 'always transparent about that' During her therapy, Nadia was deciding whether to report Brand but eventually decided not to. Instead, she wrote Brand a letter which she hoped would help her 'regain some of her power in the process', the medical records state. Three other alleged victims also spoke to The Times, including a 16-year-old girl who accused Brand of sexually assaulting her when he was 31.The woman, who claims Brand nicknamed her 'The Child', claimed that a BBC chaufuer picked her up from school. The BBC, Channel 4 and Banijay UK, the production company who ran the Big Brother spin-offs he presented, have all launched investigations into whether they aided his alleged attacks - or ignored complaints. On Monday afternoon, the Met Police said they have received a report of a sexual assault that took place in Soho in 2003 following the media's reporting. The alleged sexual assault in Soho took place three years before the four sexual assaults' that Brand has been accused of between 2006 and 2013. Brand vehemently denies any wrongdoing and has said all of his sexual relationships have been consensual. A British climber fell over 300ft to his death while climbing along an aerial ladder on an Austrian mountain. The unnamed Brit, who was 42 years old, died as he got off a via ferrata, or 'iron path', run by Intersport on the Gosaukamm, in the Dachstein Mountains near Salzburg, Austria, last Tuesday morning. Two helicopter crews, along with several officers from Hallein Alpine and Abtenau police, were scrambled after he fell off the end of the 130-ft long ladder, Salzburg State Police told MailOnline. Sadly, rescuers were unable to save him, and had to retrieve his body from the deep gully underneath the via ferrata. The police said that the man was alone on the via ferrata, and have since ruled out third-party negligence. The via ferrata is located in the Dachstein Mountains, near Salzburg, Austria 'According to the conclusion of the police investigation, it is clearly an accident,' a spokesperson said. Intersport's via ferrata leads to the summit of the Groer Donnerkogel path. Climbing experts have reported that the climb is very exposed. The iron path is also extremely popular on social media, with more than 3,500 posts about it on Instagram alone. In 2020, extreme athlete Stefanie Millinger balanced on the ladder in a ballet costume with no harness on. MailOnline has contacted Intersport for comment. Allen is accused of murdering Libby and Abby while they were hiking through Indiana's Delphi Historic Trails They claim that prosecutors and police failed to disclose the link to the religion until May 2023 Attorneys submitted the documents in a bid to get Allen County Judge Frances Gull to throw out evidence Lawyers for suspected the Delphi killer claim that Liberty German and Abigail Williams were 'ritualistically sacrificed' in bombshell court filings. Unsealed legal documents sensationally claim that the two teenagers were killed by members of a pagan Norse religion and white nationalist group called 'Odinism.' Richard Allen, 50, is accused of killing Libby German, 14, and Abby Williams, 13, while they were hiking through Indiana's Delphi Historic Trails on 13 February 2017. Attorneys for Allen are asking Allen County Judge Frances Gull to throw out evidence collected during a search of his home before his arrest last year. His team argues that authorities left out important information in their request for a search warrant, including the link to Odinism. Richard Allen, 50, is accused of killing Libby German, 14, and Abby Williams, 13, while they were hiking through Indiana 's Delphi Historic Trails on 13 February 2017 Unsealed legal documents sensationally claim that the two teenagers were killed by members of a pagan Norse religion and white nationalist group called 'Odinism' The newly unsealed filings state: 'Members of a pagan Norse religion, called Odinism, hijacked by white nationalists, ritualistically sacrificed Abigail Williams and Liberty German.' Bradley Rozzi and Andrew Baldwin are requesting a Franks hearing, which means they have reason to believe investigators withheld information from a judge or intentionally lied in order to get the search warrant approved. Their filing, which is more than 130 pages, have questioned the validity of the search warrant and is pushing for Allen to be moved to a different facility, in a separate motion. It claims that a report by the FBI Behavioral Analysis Unit found the 'individual(s) responsible for the homicides were involved in Nordic beliefs.' 'Due to either incompetence or a concerted intentionality, those in charge of the investigation refused to arrest or even properly investigate these obvious suspects,' the filings add. They say the suspects were named and ignored in a 12-page 'Odin Report' compiled by a trooper with Indiana State Police, the lead agency on the case. ISP investigators say the FBI unit never made such a finding. Lawyers have also claimed that one man from Logansport posted social media images mimicking runes found at the crime scene in the weeks after the killings. In the filings they claim that the man, who DailyMail.com are not naming, was an Odinite whose son had 'dated' Abby. The newly unsealed filings state: 'Members of a pagan Norse religion, called Odinism, hijacked by white nationalists, ritualistically sacrificed Abigail Williams and Liberty German' Allen was charged in October with two counts of murder in the slayings of Liberty German (pictured right), 14, and Abigail Williams (pictured left), 13 'His social media posts seemingly taunted the very police that refused to fully investigate him,' the documents added. 'The Defense believes that the Court will be shocked at the number of clues or 'easter eggs', both before and after the murders, that he openly posted on his Facebook page that pointed the finger to his involvement in the murders.' They say cops cleared the suspect within 30 days of the murders despite their 'absolute obsession and fascination with runes.' It is also claimed that there was an image which, 'mimicked' the crime scene on his social media. He was cleared as a suspect 'in spite of the fact that runes found on the Facebook pages mimicked runes found at a crime scene that had not been released to the public,' the filings say. The documents added: 'The investigation had barely begun, but the Unified Command had already cleared the very man that any person with even a small amount of common sense or curiosity would believe was a strong candidate for being involved in the murder of the girls.' When contacted by DailyMail.com the man in question said in a statement: 'If there are any lawyers out there that would like to help me, pro bono, go after the defense for the pain and anguish they have caused me and my family, that would be awesome.' Four other men have also has the finger pointed at them by the filings, with one allegedly confessing to his sister that he had killed the girls. The official investigation is 'an utter failure in pursuing the Odinist suspects, in spite of powerful evidence of Odinites involvement in the murders,' Allen's attorney's claim. As part of the documents, they argue that Allen cannot be linked to Odinism, or any other pagan religions or white nationalist groups. Abby was seen in a Snapchat video posted by her friend Libby in February 2017, moments before both were murdered Rushville's ex-Assistant Police Chief Todd Click, (right) who has now retired, said in the letter that he and two other officers had 'connected both groups of men to the murders' The filings also state that 'runes' were left around the girl's bodies, made out of 'sticks, tree branches' and and 'F' symbol 'using the blood of Liberty German'. It also states that Abby had sticks in her hair, which 'crudely mimicked horns or antlers.' 'Evidence supports that at the crime scene, these murdering Odinites left behind obvious signatures, symbols in the form of runes,' it states. It went on: 'Sticks and tree branches were deliberately, carefully and proficiently placed on each girl in a certain arrangement mimicking certain runes. 'At least one of the branches appeared to have its end cut off cleanly by some type of tool like an electric saw, providing proof of a preconceived plan.' One trooper is quoted as saying of the crime scene: 'It seemed to me to border on almost a satanic type of worshipping, sacrificing, but I couldn't really wrap my brain around it.' Lawyers for Allen argue that law enforcement 'abandoned the obvious correlation' between the crime scene and Odinism - 'despite an obscene amount of evidence.' The new documents also argue that Allen is innocent, and had 'nothing to do with the crime.' It states that no forensic evidence links Allen to the scene, and claims that there were 'Odiniate suspects' ignored by police. A professor was consulted with by authorities, and stated that 'it was not Odinism or any type of cult worshipping or any type of group that would have conducted the crime'. They also claim that the investigators are now unable to identify the professors and 'may never be able to figure out who the professor is'. Allen's lawyers argue that following this assessment, the Odinism angle was 'essentially abandoned'. They also claim that a former top cop sent a letter to prosecutor Nick McCleland, stating that there were men who practiced Odinism in or near Delphi with another group in Rushville. Court documents have revealed that he has not made a single phone call since the admission, and has undergone a psychiatric evaluation Court documents also show that on one occasion where Allen admitted to the murders, April 3 this year, his wife ended the call abruptly Rushville's ex-Assistant Police Chief Todd Click, who has now retired, said in the letter that he and two other officers had 'connected both groups of men to the murders'. Part of the documents include an 85-page compilation of reports prepared by Click in 2019 on the case. 'The letter that Click sent to McCleland was the first that the Defense has heard that the FBI actually believed that Odinists were likely involved, ' it added. 'In other words, this report contained exculpatory evidence that Unified Command concealed from the Defense. This information was and is crucial for Richard Allen's Defense. 'While the prosecution has been holding on to this exculpatory evidence, Richard Allen has been living in hell.' Part of their argument also claims that members of the Odinist cult are working as corrections officers for the Indiana Department of Corrections at Westville Correctional Facility where Allen is being held. They state that inside the prison, Allen is 'being threatened, intimidated, and mentally abused.' Prosecutors previously revealed that Allen admitted to his wife that he killed the teenage girls five times in prison phone calls. Carroll County Prosecutor Nicholas McLeland openly stated that he believes 'Allen is not the only actor involved in this', and prosecutors have alleged that he attempted a kidnapping - though he has not been charged with this. DailyMail.com did not immediately receive a response when contacting Carroll County Prosecutor's office or Click for comment. Two days after the girls were killed, law enforcement officers released a photograph of a white male wearing blue jeans, a blue coat and a hoodie Kegan Kline, 28, (left) was linked to the case last December - he had communicated with Libby via a fake Instagram account the morning she and Abby went missing. The bodies of both girls were found on the property of Ron Logan (right) who died in 2022 Carroll County Sheriff Tony Liggett and a spokesperson for ISP declined to comment further, citing a gag order in the case. Libby's iPhone was discovered under her body, and contained the 43-second video that helped investigators piece the case together. Details of Allen's other alleged confessions have not been shared. He is said to have broken the tablet he used to make texts and send phone calls, and is not believed to have called or texted anyone on it in months. Search warrants also show that investigators searched his home in Delphi, including outbuildings, a shed and Allen's car, looking for firearms and knives. They also scoured the home for electronic devices, clothing and a specific cell phone. Law enforcement recovered numerous items, including boots, multiple knives and sweatshirts, multiple cell phones, an iPod, a hard drive, laptop and other electronics. An affidavit released in November 2022 shows that an unspent .40 caliber round was found between the teenagers' bodies, and it was later linked to Allen's Sig Sauer Model P226 firearm through forensic evidence. Prosecutors believe the gun links Allen directly to the case, after forensics determined a bullet found next to the girl's bodies had cycled through his gun. Kathy Allen also confirmed to police that her husband owned several guns and knives, as well as a blue Carhartt jacket similar to the one worn by 'Bridge Guy.' He has pleaded not guilty to both counts of murder, his defense attorney Andrew Baldwin previously said Allen was the 'wrong guy' and the sealed probable cause affidavit is 'flimsy' adding: 'You expect more than what I saw.' Prosecutors have not named any potential accomplices. Ron Logan, who died in 2022, had long been the prime suspect in the killings after the girls' bodies were found on his property, and Kegan Kline was also named as a possible murderer. Both girls' bodies were discovered on Logan's property - just 1,400ft from his house - and it was revealed over the summer that his alibi for the day of the murder did not line up. His home was searched and he was arrested shortly after the killings, but he was released and never charged. The voice in a clip released by police of a man talking to the girls shortly before their deaths was described as being 'not inconsistent' with that of Logan, the FBI investigation concluded. The city will be on gridlock alert with dozens of roads shut down Activist are calling on the US government to take action on climate change United Nations General Assembly will be held from September 18-23 & 26 in NYC World leaders are descending on midtown Manhattan for the United Nations General Assembly and with them so are protesters taking to the streets of NYC. Activists demanding an end to fossil fuel financing were arrested outside the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on Monday, according to WABC. Their arrests came after New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) announced its gridlock alert days for the rest of the year starting with the week of the assembly. Gridlock alert days are when traffic is expected to be at its slowest and most congested. NBC New York found traffic data showing average speeds drop under four miles per hour in the Midtown Central Business District during United Nations (UN) General Assembly week. There will be road closures spanning from First Avenue to Seventh Avenue and from 34th Street to 63rd Street. The most extensive delays and closures will be closest to the UN building located at First Avenue and 42nd Street. Climate change activists demanding an end to fossil fuel financing were arrested outside the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on Monday The protest was timed to coincide with the United Nations General Assembly which is scheduled to discuss climate goals There will be dozens of street closures across Manhattan for the UN General Assembly President Joe Biden arrived in the city on Sunday causing traffic cause as he took his family to dinner at Italian restaurant Il Cantinori. As he arrived in the city, streets were blocked to allow his motorcade to pass through. Then traffic built up outside the restaurant located East 10th Street between Broadway and University Place, near the NYU campus, as crowds of people tried to catch a glimpse of the president. 'The UN General Assembly is a great event each year the city is proud to host, but New Yorkers should do their part in minimizing congestion and seeking alternative modes of transportation,' said DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. During the weeklong assembly heads of state and government will engage in a variety of debates and meetings and review the implementation of the 2030 agenda and its 17 sustainable development goals. The New York City Department of Transportation announced gridlock alert days for the United Nations General Assembly Protesters are also expected to flock to the UN building to call for the US government to act on climate change There were more peaceful protests from Iranian Americans voicing their opposition to Iran's president Ebrahim Raisi who is due in NYC An estimated 151 heads of state are expected to attended and the NYPD will be ramping up security Patrick Freaney, the special agent-in-charge for the Secret Service, said they anticipate 151 heads of state to be in attendance. UN Secretary-General Antonio will hold a climate ambition summit and there will be high-level meetings on pandemics, universal health coverage and fighting tuberculosis. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to make his first appearance at the assembly since the Russian invasion of his country. Protesters are also expected to flock to the UN building. Climate activists are calling for the US government to act on climate change. President Biden (left) arrived Sunday causing traffic chaos as he attended dinner with his family and daughter Ashley (right) United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres (center) delivered opening remarks during the Sustainable Development Goals summit on Monday Other protesters are seen holding signs and flags to protest the arrival of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi. 'There are no credible threats either to the UN General Assembly or to New York City in general,' said Police Commissioner Edward A. Caban. City leaders strongly encourage to use of public transportation during the UN general assembly. They were later seen retrieving a large object wrapped in a white tarp Biologists from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission joined law enforcement to search for the animal The popular amusement park was closed amid reports of a black bear sighting A black bear that forced nearly half of Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom to temporarily shut down appears to have been captured. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission confirmed the animal was spotted in a tree earlier this morning. Around 1.15pm, members of the search party were spotted carrying a large black figure in a white tarp on video captured by WESH 2. The staff were seen in reflective vests, standing in a clearing, pointing at something off-camera. Several people then emerge from underneath the tree cover, hustling an object wrapped in a white tarp. The group then walked out of the heavily wooded area and carried the tarp into a dirt lot, past parked cars and into another swath of trees, where they disappear. Members of the search team were spotted in a clearing on Walt Disney World property They were carrying a large black object that had been wrapped in a white tarp The team appeared to have captured the black bear which was thought to be searching for food ahead of the winter months The mysterious tarp was carried into a wooded area opposite a dirt parking lot 'Biologists with the FWCs Bear Management Program, as well as FWC Law Enforcement officers, are on scene,' FWC said in a statement. 'In most cases, it is best for bears to be given space and to move along on their own, but given this situation, staff are working on capturing and relocating the bear.' More than 17 million people paid a visit to Magic Kingdom in 2022, making it the most attended amusement park in the world. A slew of attractions were temporarily closed, including Hall of Presidents, Liberty Square Riverboat, A Pirates Adventure, Tom Sawyer Island and the Walt Disney World Railroad. Crowds began forming as people were steered away from certain attractions, with park staff standing guard at the entrances. The park slowly began to allow people back in to certain attractions and rides. As Frontierland, Adventureland and Liberty Square remained closed, a helicopter was spotted overhead. Social media videos showed people milling about the park, heading down the ramp to the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad roller coaster after it was reopened. Crowds began to form as parkgoers were prevented from entering nearly half the park's attractions Some parts of the park were left completely desolate as FWC biologists and law enforcement worked to track down the bear Rides gradually began to reopen but by mid-afternoon FWC had yet to confirm they had captured the bear Magic Kingdom is going THROUGH it this morning. Only Tomorrowland, Fantasyland and Main Street U.S.A. are open to guests while the remainder of the park is closed. pic.twitter.com/viMzLa40uo AllEars.Net (@AllEarsNet) September 18, 2023 A Twitter video posted at 11am showed a staffer attempting to console a crowd of expectant visitors, most wearing the signature Mickey Mouse ears. She attributed the closure of half the park to 'technical difficulties.' 'We are working on it. As soon as we can get those issues resolved we will reopen this side of the park,' the staffer said. All rides were all later reopened with the exception of Tom Sawyer's Island. The animal was thought to be searching for food ahead of winter. Bears are generally more active in the fall, as they search for food to build fat reserves that will sustain them through once they enter a deep sleep. Black bears in particular are skittish animals that are largely solitary. Their curved claws allow them to climb easily and evade danger. A black bear's first instinct will be to flee rather than to charge, making them less aggressive than grizzlies and other bear species. Democratic U.S. congresswoman from Virginia Jennifer Wexton, 55, announced on Monday she won't seek reelection after receiving a diagnosis of a form of progressive Parkinson's Disease. Rep. Wexton currently represents Virginia's 10th congressional district, which is a competitive area encompassing highly wealthy Washington, D.C. suburb communities like Loudon County and Fairfax County. The Monday announcement follows Wexton revealing in April that she was diagnosed with Parkinson's but was planning to continue serving in Congress. Now that she has an updated diagnosis with a more severe prognosis, she is stepping aside. Progressive supra-nuclear palsy is a form of 'Parkinson's on steroids,' Wexton described in her statement on the devastating diagnosis. Democratic Rep. Jennifer Wexton will not run for reelection after finding out her new diagnosis of 'Parkinson's on steroids' The congresswoman released a statement Monday describing her diagnosis and decision to retire from the House after serving out her term to the end of 2024 'I want to be honest with you now - this new diagnosis is a tough one,' Wexton said in her statement, which was posted to X, formerly known as Twitter. 'There is no `getting better with PSP. I'll continue treatment options to manage my symptoms, but they don't work as well.' Speaking with the Washington Post, Wexton said: 'People I know know I've struggled for a long time. I'll be able to relax and enjoy the time I have left and the time I have left in Congress.' When speaking toward longtime confidante and chief of staff Abigail Carter, Wexton assured her that she wants to tell her story on her terms. 'It's not okay. It's not okay at all,' she said of the diagnosis. 'I'm going to die, which isn't fair.' Wexton asked her doctor, according to the report, 'Can I still run for reelection?' as they looked at the brain scan. 'Why would you want to?' the doctor replied. Wexton will serve her term through 2024, but noted in her statement: 'I'm heartbroken to have to give up something I have loved after so many years of serving my community,' she said. The Virginia congresswoman was seeking more answers from her doctors after realizing she wasn't responding well to treatment and found she was having different experiences than the women in her Parkinson's support group. Assuming office in 2019, Wexton won the midterm House election against Republican Rep. Barbara Comstock with 56 percent of the vote. In 2022 she won her second reelection with 53 percent of the vote. An open seat in Virginia 10 could set up a competitive race in a district that became slightly more conservative in the last redistricting, according to an analysis by the nonpartisan Virginia Public Access Project. With a closely split congress, the race in 2024 could have implications for the party control. Pictured: Wexton, as a congressional candidates, shares donuts at a really with voters alongside then-Senate candidate Tim Kaine (center) and former President Barack Obama (left) Progressive supranuclear palsy, or PSP, is a disorder in a family of neurological conditions called atypical parkinsonism. It affects body movements, walking and balance. People diagnosed with PSP often die from the disease six to nine years after their diagnosis, with symptoms worsening over time. Symptoms of PSP can resemble those of Parkinson's Disease and the condition may initially be misdiagnosed, which occurred in Ms Wexton's case. However, it is different from Parkinson's in that it usually begins later in a person's life during their mid- to late-60s and worsens quickly. People with PSP develop severe disability three to five years after symptoms appear. Wexton is 55 so she was diagnosed and experiencing symptoms a bit earlier than typical. Problems with speech and swallowing are much more common and severe in PSP patients compared to those with Parkinson's. It is rare, however, for PSP patients to develop a tremor, a major hallmark sign of Parkinson's Disease. PSP symptoms can include difficulty controlling eyes and eyelids, loss of balance, slurred speech, difficulty walking or swallowing, changes in judgment, forgetfulness, personality changes and difficulty finding words. The condition can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, choking or head injuries from falls. Aspiration pneumonia, when food or liquid is breathed into the airways or lungs instead of being swallowed, is the most common cause of death in people with PSP. People with the condition also have a higher risk of falls and head trauma that could lead to death. Some treatments that can be successful in symptom management for Parkinson's patients often fail in PSP patients. There is currently no cure for the condition and there are no treatments to reverse or stop PSP. A convicted killer who was on the run for two weeks after escaping a Pennsylvania prison once fled a Brazil juvenile detention center by climbing over a wall. Danelo Cavalcante was sent to the facility as a 17-year-old after he tried to kill a male by stabbing him during a robbery in 2006, according to Brazilian news magazine Fantastico. Tocantins Civil Police officer, Adriano Borges, told the outlet that Cavalcante had been only held at the youth detention center for two months and took advantage of a disturbance caused by other juvenile offenders and managed to jump over a 14-foot wall. The then-teenager was seen traveling by foot along a road and was chased by a police officer, who shot him. Cavalcante was rushed to a medical facility and then taken to another juvenile center the same day. Borges said that Cavalcante's first brush with the law came in 2014 and that he was arrested on several occasions for petty theft, assault and gun and knife possession. Danelo Cavalcante once escaped from a juvenile detention center in Tocantins, Brazil, in 2006 Danelo Cavalcante is spotted by a surveillance camera 'crab-walking' his way to freedom at the Chester County jail on August 31 Authorities in the Tocantins capital city of Palmas were already aware that their hands were tied with a criminal at such a young age. 'Although he was a minor, at the time he was already a guy who was very dangerous,' Borges said. Cavalcante was eventually released from the youth detention center and continued with his criminal ways, which worsened in November 2017 when he allegedly murdered his friend, Valter Moreira, in Ficaropolis over money he was owed over a vehicle repair. Although an arrest warrant was approved by a Tocantins court a week after the killing, the order was not filed with the National Prison Bank's registry, which allowed him to board a flight in January 2018 to Puerto Rico. Cavalcante he killed his ex-girlfriend, Deborah Brandao, stabbing her 28 times in front of her two children at her Chester County, Pennsylvania home on April 18, 2021. Virginia authorities apprehended him the next day while he was trying to flee to Mexico. Prosecutors say he stabbed Brandao in front of her two children to stop her from reporting him to United States authorities over He was convicted in late August and sentenced to life in prison. Deborah Brandao (pictured) was stabbed dead in April 2021 by Danelo Cavalcante, who feared that she would turn him over to police because she knew he had murdered a person in Brazil Walter Junior (pictured) was murdered over a debt on November 5, 2017 by Danilo Cavalcante in Tocantins, Brazil Danelo Cavalcante tried to run away, but a K-9 chased him through the woods, bit him and brought an end to the manhunt September 13. He was treated for injuries at the spot However, Cavalcante managed to escape from the Chester County Prison by crawling up a wall August 31. Surveillance camera footage showed how he 'crab' walked between two brick walls before he climbed a fence and jumped over razor wire in the middle of the day. The daring escape sparked a massive manhunt as Cavalcante led police through the Pennsylvania woods. A Drug Enforcement Administration aircraft was able to locate him the night of September 12 and he was finally arrested the following morning after a U.S. Customs and Border Protection K-9 chased him through the woods in South Coventry Township. Cavalcante was bitten by the dog and treated for injuries on the scene. Before the ink is even dry on a spending deal between the right-wing House Freedom Caucus and the pragmatic Main Street Caucus, Republicans are lining up to oppose it. Florida GOP Rep. Anna Paulina Luna vowed to fly back to Washington, D.C. while battling an infection three weeks after giving birth to vote no against the deal if necessary. 'If I'm needed, I'm coming,' she said in a statement. A spokesperson confirmed to DailyMail.com she had just gotten over a four-day fever and infection and is being treated with antibiotics, 'but will fly to vote no because I know how important this is.' Before the ink is even dry on a spending deal between the right-wing House Freedom Caucus and the pragmatic Main Street Caucus, Republicans are lining up to oppose it Florida GOP Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, above, vowed to fly back to Washington, D.C. while battling an infection three weeks after giving birth to vote no against the deal if necessary Luna, 34, gave birth on August 26, becoming a first-time mother while serving her first term in Congress in a historic rarity. Luna is one of around a dozen Republicans who so far have said they won't vote for the deal released Sunday night that would extend government funding until October 30, giving Congress and extra 30 days to push through spending bills. But the bill can only pass with a small handful of GOP defections. The deal would hold funding for Defense and Department of Homeland Security at 2023 levels but would cut all other discretionary spending by eight percent across the board. It would also include the House GOP's border crackdown - H.R. 2 - minus E-Verify provisions. The bill does not include disaster relief funding or Ukraine funding. Even if House Republicans are able to push it through, it will not be passed by the Democrat-controlled Senate or signed by the White House. The deal was penned by Main Street Caucus chair Rep. Dusty Johnson, N.D., and Freedom Caucus (HFC) member Rep. Byron Donalds, Fla., with input from Freedom Caucus Chair Rep. Scott Perry, Pa., Main Street vice chair Stephanie Bice, Okla., Chip Roy, Texas and Kelly Armstrong, N.D. The Freedom Caucus had long ago come out in opposition to a 'clean' continuing resolution (CR), but now it appears the caucus has fractured over what they want. Some of the Republicans who now oppose the HFC-Main Street deal insist they don't want any continuing resolution at all and the House must pass all 12 appropriations bills. Some say they won't vote for a CR unless it 'defunds' the Justice Department, namely special counsel Jack Smith and his investigations into Trump. Even Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., a McCarthy ally, promised to vote no against the CR. 'Oh absolutely. Im a NO! Funding Jack Smiths persecution of Trump is one of my red lines. No money for Ukraine or COVID insanity either. And continuing Pelosis policies for even one day is unacceptable,' she wrote on X. Others said they would not vote for Ukraine funding, just as President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to visit Congress later this week, while Donalds reiterated there is no money for Ukraine in the deal. Luna gave birth on August 26 'The 30 day CR does 2 things: 1. Secure the southern border. 2. Cut government spending by 8%. **There is NO Ukraine $$**,' he wrote on X. 'The truth is Congress needs more time to do the necessary spending cuts and reforms to stop the weaponization of our government and save our country.' With just 12 days left in the month it is nearly impossible the House could do that, then work out its differences with the Senate appropriations bills, before the September 30 deadline when a government shutdown will kick in. McCarthy was asked whether it's time to work a deal with Democrats in the House on getting through a short-term CR, a move that could further anger the far right and cost him the speakership. He insisted there is still time to work up a deal with Republicans. 'This isn't the 30th We got a long ways to go. We've got a lot of different ideas,' he told reporters. 'I'm for a lot of different ideas, whatever seems to be able to get through and I'll continue to put more ideas on the floor.' 'We can work on this and we can get this solved,' he claimed. James Cracknell's wife has taken a thinly veiled swipe at his GB News host ex-partner Beverly Turner as she slammed the 'misogynistic backlash' towards Russell Brand's accusers. Comedian and actor Brand, 48, has been accused of rape and sexual assaults between 2006 and 2013, when he was at the height of his fame and working for the BBC and Channel 4. Jordan Cracknell, who is James Cracknell's new wife after his split from ex Beverley Turner in 2019, took to Instagram to share her thoughts on the accusations against Brand. It comes after Andrew Pierce and his GB News co-host Ms Turner dramatically clashed live on air today after she called Brand 'a hero' on Twitter. Mrs Cracknell later posted: 'My heart goes out to the brave women who came forward with their stories about Russell Brand. 'The allegations are stomach churning. I'm sure it wasn't easy, and the misogynistic backlash is intense in these cases (one only has to look at Twitter). They are the heroes in all of this.' During today's GB News show, Daily Mail columnist Pierce branded Ms Turner 'shameful' following her 'hero' tweet in the wake of allegations revealed in an investigation by The Times, The Sunday Times and Channel 4 Dispatches. James Cracknell's wife Jordan (pictured together here) has taken a thinly veiled swipe at his GB News host ex-partner Beverly Turner as she slammed the 'misogynistic backlash' towards Russell Brand's accusers Jordan Cracknell wrote on Instagram that her 'heart goes out to the brave women who came forward' Beverley Turner continued to defend her support for Brand after calling him a 'hero' in a tweet Pierce also said that Ms Turner was 'behaving like an idiot' after she continued to defend Brand amid the fallout. The furious on-air row comes after one businesswoman alleged Brand raped her at his Los Angeles home in 2012 when she refused a threesome and another who said she was a 16-year-old schoolgirl when he choked her during a sexual act. On Saturday following the reports, Ms Turner tweeted that Brand was being 'attacked' by 'establishment media' and encouraged him to keep going with his YouTube channel which often rails against these outlets, hailing him 'a hero'. But Pierce said today: 'That is shameful. You have dismissed in one tweet a four-year investigation by The Sunday Times, The Times and Channel 4, contemptuously, the mainstream media.' He asked: 'Don't you think before you say he is a hero you should establish whether these very serious allegations are true?' She replied: 'Before I tweeted that, I had spoken to several sources close to Brand, close to The Times... I was confident that there is no smoking gun in this regard. 'I remain confident having watched the Dispatches [episode].' She added: 'Of course everybody has the right to not be sexually assaulted. 'Anybody who has been sexually assaulted, my heart goes out to them. 'This happens every single day.' Pierce countered that he did not feel there was 'sympathy' in her tweet for the four women who have raised these allegations adding that he was 'shocked' at her statement. In the post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Turner wrote: 'You are being attacked @rustyrockets. 'Establishment media don't know what to do with the fact that you have 6million subscribers & generate autonomous, knowing and original content. 'You are welcome on my @GBNEWS show anytime. We are mainstream media. But we are not Establishment media. There's a difference. Russell Brand pictured on Saturday evening leaving the Troubadour Wembley Park theatre in north-west London after performing a comedy set Daily Mail columnist and GB News host Andrew Pierce branded Beverley Turner 'shameful' for defending Brand Controversial comedian Brand at 'The Today Show Concert Series' TV programme pictured in June 2010 Brand (pictured in 2008) said that during his 'time of promiscuity, the relationships I had were absolutely always consensual' and that he was 'always transparent about that' Russell Brand on Big Brother's Little Brother on May 31, 2006. Brand presented Big Brother's Big Mouth for three years before choosing not to return for the eighth series of the show 'Keep going. This proves you are winning. You're a hero.' In recent years Brand has seemingly become a prominent conspiracy theorist, using his YouTube channel with more than 6.6 million subscribers to cover topical news stories, including alleged misinformation surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic and being an outspoken sceptic of vaccinations. Reflecting on Brand's platform, Turner said: 'Let me tell you why he's winning. 'He's winning because here's a man who generates his own content, under his own steam, under his own expense. 'He is a threat to all of these newspapers.' A furious row also erupted over whether Brand's wife's sister Kirsty Gallacher deleted a message of support for the comedian after seeing the claims revealed in the Channel 4 Dispatches programme. The night before, Brand had posted a two-minute video denying any criminal wrongdoing. TV star Gallacher shared the video with a large red heart but later deleted it after the documentary was released. Pierce told viewers: 'Interestingly his wife's sister Kirsty Gallacher tweeted in support of him and then she saw the Dispatches programme. The comedian, actor and internet personality has told his 6.5million subscribers that there are 'very, very serious criminal allegations' made against him which he 'absolutely refutes' But a furious Ms Turner interrupted, shouting: 'No, that's not true Andrew.' She claimed that Pierce did not know why she took down the post, adding: 'I'll tell you why. Because people like you are saying that you cannot defend this man.' She claimed that Ms Gallacher was frightened of speaking out and 'only idiots like me' have. Pierce then interrupted: 'Well there's a true word to use there Bev because you are behaving like an idiot. You are behaving like an idiot. READ MORE: Met Police investigates sexual assault as woman comes forward to report alleged attack in Soho in 2003 - in the wake of Russell Brand sex scandal Advertisement Turner added: 'I will always stand by my principles. This man is innocent until proven guilty.' After Brand was hit with accusations of rape and sexual assault, more women have come forward with allegations about how he treated them, it has emerged. The Times and Sunday Times claim 'several women' have come forward with undisclosed allegations about Brand's behaviour during the early 2000s in wake of their joint investigation with Channel 4 which was published on Saturday. The latest allegations - which the newspaper says have not been investigated, but will now be 'rigorously checked'. The BBC is now also facing 'urgent questions' after it was claimed that Brand, 48, used his company-provided car service to pick the girl up from school. It comes as both BBC and Channel 4 have launched internal investigations into separate accusations of predatory behaviour by Brand towards staff and audience members during the time of his employment. Channel 4 has since removed all programmes linked to Brand from its website, including episodes of The Great British Bake Off and Big Brother's Big Mouth in which he featured, The Daily Telegraph reported. Netflix has since been urged to remove his comedy special, titled Re:Birth, from its streaming catalogue. The maverick actor and stand-up comic has strenuously denied any wrongdoing and blamed the 'mainstream media' for the 'litany of astonishing, rather baroque attacks'. This is the terrifying moment a pair of loose Rottweilers charged into a family home and killed two beloved cats - leaving the occupant and her children screaming for help. The attack unfolded on a suburban street in Chelmsley Wood, north of Solihull in the West Midlands, at lunchtime on Wednesday August 30. Chilling doorbell camera footage shows homeowner Paisley, 31, chatting merrily to her pet orange cat Dave as she unloads shopping from her car. She jokes with the cat: 'Hello my beautiful boy, what have you done to your back again? I can't afford another vet trip Dave.' Less than 30 seconds later, the two large black dogs can be seen bounding up to the door, as the family yell in panic. Pet cat Oreo (above) suffered a broken back and grievous internal bleeding in the unprompted attack. He was taken to the vets for treatment but couldn't be saved Beloved family cat Dave was killed in the attack, found outside by Paisley's son. Vets couldn't tell if he had died from internal bleeding or simply from shock Mum-of-five Paisley, who did not give her surname, said the dogs charged into the house and 'destroyed' the kitchen as they mauled Dave and dragged black and white cat Oreo off of the kitchen counter, 'pinning' it to the fridge. The dogs are also said to have damaged a radiator cover as they bounded into the house to carry out the brutal and relentless attack. Paisley told Birmingham Live: 'They just started attacking the cats. 'I've come in and followed the dogs in and they're attacking my cats in the kitchen, they literally got on my kitchen side to drag Oreo off the side. 'Obviously I'm trying to get these dogs off (but) they had Oreo pinned at the fridge, they were too big.' By the end of the traumatic attack, which has left her children suffering nightmares, Dave was dead, while Oreo died later after vets deemed his injuries impossible to survive; the black-and-white cat had a broken back and grievous internal bleeding. Paisley added: 'The vet said the dogs had damaged Dave's eye and without an autopsy they don't know whether he died from internal bleeding or in shock. We found him on a grass verge round the corner. Police were called but the mum says the officers were 'of no help' - and West Midlands Police says it has 'spoken to' the owner of the dogs but is yet to take any further action. Mum-of-five Paisley, 31, had just greeted orange cat Dave at the door seconds beforehand - minutes later he was dead, having been savaged by the out-of-control animals The dogs came bounding up the driveway of the home in Chelmsley Wood, near Solihull, before running into the house A radiator cover that Paisley claims was damaged by the Rottweilers as they bounded into her home to attack her pets A force spokesperson said: 'We were called to Raglan Way, Chelmsley Wood (on August 30) to reports of two dogs attacking another dog. The injured dog was taken to the vets to be treated. 'The owners of the two dogs were spoken to and were taken back home to be secured by the owners. 'We have asked neighbourhood officers to speak to the dog's owners regarding securing the animal, and will consider any further steps that need to be taken to ensure public safety.' The attack is just one of several dog attacks to occur in the West Midlands in recent weeks - including an XL Bully attack in Stonnall, 15 miles from Chelmsley Wood, which killed local businessman Ian Price on September 14. Another XL Bully attack saw 11-year-old Ana Paun and two men mauled in the street in Birmingham on September 9, while 10-year-old Mohammed Sami Raza was taken to hospital after he was attacked by a dog as he played in the street in Walsall on September 13. Rottweilers are legal to own in the UK, as the breed is not among those listed in the Dangerous Dogs Act, which outlawed the likes of the Japanese Tosa and American Pitbull Terrier in 1991. The Kennel Club says the breed 'became very popular, often with those seeking a macho image. The breed needs responsible and intelligent owners who can harness the Rottweilers intelligence and activity.' Howard Stern said Lauren Boebert was 'a disgrace to this county' after her sleazy theatre antics that have sparked a flood of negative reviews on her date's Aspen bar. The Republican firebrand was caught indulging in public heavy-petting with her beau Quinn Gallagher, who is believed to be a Democrat bar owner, as well as vaping inside. Toe-curling footage showed Gallagher rubbing Boebert's breasts as she tugged at his crotch while watching Beetlejuice in Denver, Colorado. The Howard Stern Show presenter took aim at Boebert who has since apologized for her behavior. 'Lauren Boebert is a disgrace to this country! Forget the politics. She's in a t***y dress. She's with some dude,' he said. Howard Stern said: ' Lauren Boebert is a disgrace to this country! Forget the politics. She's in a t*tty dress. She's with some dude' Boebert 's new beau, who was caught on camera fondling her breasts at a Beetlejuice musical, owns a gay-friendly bar that hosts drag shows 'Looks like she's obviously vaping, but also looks like she might be grabbing his penis during Beetlejuice.' Co-host Robin Quivers asked: 'Is Beetlejuice a sexy play?' Stern joked back: 'It's a very erotic play evidently. I remember the movie, there was nothing sexy about it. 'I mean, how did she win an election? How does a woman like that win an election? I mean. You know, there's certain standards once you get caught lying like that, goodbye!' Meanwhile, the bar Hooch that is owned by the man seen with Boebert has been trolled with multiple fake reviews turning customers off entering. One person wrote: 'Owners are hypocrites. Host drag shows while he dates a bigot who rallies against the people he caters to.' Another said: 'Apparently whatever core values co-owner Quinn Gallagher claimed to possess were thrown out the window when he met Trailer Trash Queen Lauren Boebert.' And a third said: 'There was a roach in my mojito. I think it fell out of the bartenders cleavage from her fake boobs. She looked familiar too. The owner just seems to make a lot of bad choices here.' Boebert was seen arguing with staff as she was booted from the theatre Surveillance footage from Sunday night's incident shows Boebert, wearing a tight, low-cut gold dress and high heels, making a considerable fuss as she and Gallagher left - taking a selfie as she leaves the auditorium and angrily baring her teeth at staff Defending her actions, Boebert told One America News Network yesterday: 'I was a little too eccentric. I am very known for having an animated personality. Maybe overly animated personality. 'I was laughing, I was singing, having a fantastic time. Was told to kind of settle it down a little bit, which I did but then my next slip up was taking a picture.' Footage also showed Boebert waving her hands, singing loudly, using flash photography and vaping before being aggressive with staff who removed her from the theater. And Boebert has been removed from the Texas Youth Summit's speakers list. On Friday, organizers for the event, aimed at young conservatives ages 12 to 26, announced that Boebert had been added to the lineup, despite it already being public knowledge that she had been kicked out of the Buell Theatre for disruptive behavior. Social media posts captured by the website MeidasTouch show that the Colorado congresswoman was described by event organizers as a 'devout Christian who seeks to honor God in all that she does.' Those social media posts have since been deleted - including one for a VIP reception - with nearly identical posts added back to Texas Youth Summit's Facebook and Instagram pages, but with Boebert's name and picture removed. The controversial congresswoman initially denied the claims, claimed the vape smoke was actually from a fog machine and issued a sarcastic statement playing down the anger. Boebert's divorce from Jason, 36, her husband of 18 years and father to her four children, is ongoing after the couple's shock split in May But she made a startling U-turn late Friday night blaming her behavior on her 'public and difficult divorce.' 'The past few days have been difficult and humbling, and I'm truly sorry' she wrote in a statement. 'There's no perfect blueprint for going through a public and difficult divorce, which over the past few months has made a challenging personal time for me and my entire family.' Speaking about the controversy, she blamed the media for drawing so much attention to her raucous behavior She said: 'We just had Kevin McCarthy, the Speaker of the House announce the impeachment inquiry. 'We're facing a government shutdown and trying to fund the federal government. We have wide open southern border.' 'And what's the top story? Lauren Boebert getting kicked out of the theater.' Boebert's campaign manager Drew Sexton said: 'I can confirm the stunning and salacious rumors: in her personal time, Congresswoman Lauren Boebert is indeed a supporter of the performing arts (gasp!) and, to the dismay of a select few, enthusiastically enjoyed a weekend performance of Beetlejuice.' Boebert's divorce from Jason, 36, her husband of 18 years and father to her four children, is ongoing after the couple's shock split in May. At the time Boerbert insisted that she had always been faithful throughout her marriage. DailyMail.com revealed on Wednesday that Boebert, and Gallagher, a divorced father of a 16-year-old son, have been secretly dating for several months. Surveillance footage from Sunday night's incident shows Boebert, wearing a tight, low-cut gold dress and high heels, making a considerable fuss as she and Gallagher left - taking a selfie as she leaves the auditorium and angrily baring her teeth at staff. She also gave ushers the finger. The Denver Post spoke to a pregnant woman who says she was sitting behind Boebert, but who was too scared to give her name for fear of MAGA-reprisals. The woman claims Boebert said 'no,' when asked to stop vaping, sang with her hands in the air, blew vape smoke at her, kissed her date and took repeated videos during the show. Boebert is also said to have told the complainer she was a 'miserable' person. The eyewitness claims she asked to move seats in the intermission - and that staff at the theater said theirs wasn't the only complaint about the erratic lawmaker. The woman also told the Post that Boebert's lover Gallagher offered to buy them cocktails as a peace offering, which she had to decline because of her pregnancy. An incident report noted the two received a warning at intermission about their behavior. But five minutes into the second act, security officials received another complaint about a person being loud and recording the show. 'They told me they would not leave,' an usher said, according to the report. 'I told them that they need to leave the theater and if they do not, they will be trespassing. 'The patrons said they would not leave. I told them I would (be) going to get Denver Police. They said go get them.' Afterwards, Boebert and her smartly-dressed date were caught on camera walking off through the empty nighttime streets of Denver. Once outside Boebert's indignation quickly dissipates as she holds her new lover's hand, dances coquettishly and twirls for him in the street as they make their way through the city a three-hour drive from Gallagher's home near Aspen and even further from Boebert's home in Silt, Colorado. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is again asking President Joe Biden to give him Secret Service protection after an armed gunman was arrested at his campaign event over the weekend - just two miles from where his father was assassinated in 1968. 'The threat level to our candidate, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., is increasing every day. He is not the only one in danger every person who attends a campaign event is at risk,' Kennedy's campaign manager Dennis Kucinich wrote to the president. Kucinich, in his missive, referenced the armed gunman arrested over the weekend and the history of assassination of political figures. Kennedy's father - Robert Kennedy - was shot in Los Angeles in 1968 and his uncle John F. Kennedy was shot in Dallas in 1963. Kennedy is challenging Biden for the Democratic presidential nomination. Biden leads by over 50 points in the polls. But polls also show that voters are concerned that, at age 80, Biden might be getting too old to do the job. Robert F Kennedy has again asked for Secret Service protection, he was speaking at a Hispanic Heritage Month event at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre in Los Angeles on Friday night when an armed man tried to get inside Kucinich, in his letter, noted the country still has scars from the political turmoil of the 1960s. 'It is not hard to imagine the civil chaos and political disintegration that could ensue with the return of the kind of assassinations of public officials and presidential candidates that marred the 1960s,' Kucinich wrote. 'The American psyche still bears the scars of those devastating events. Together with the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., they sent America into a tailspin from which many believe the country has not yet recovered,' he said. Kucinich also noted that President Biden and his family know the importance of having federal protection. 'This ever-present threat of violence is something you are well aware of given the security requirements for you and members of your family,' he noted. The Secret Service notes it 'does not determine who qualifies for protection, nor is the Secret Service empowered to independently initiate candidate protection.' The agency protects the major candidates for president and vice president, usually within 120 days of the election. Ironically, such measures were put into place after the assassination of Robert Kennedy in 1968. 'Prior to this event, candidates and their families did not receive Secret Service protection,' the agency noted. President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden with their Secret Service details The suspect was seen being arrested by police after claiming to be with Robert F. Kennedy Jr's security team The incident took place less than two miles from where RFJ's dad was shot on June 5, 1968. Kennedy Sr. died a day later at the Good Samaritan Hospital Dennis Kucinich (left), the former Congressman from Ohio who now serves at Robert F. Kennedy Jr's campaign manager, wrote to Biden asking for protection for his candidate A president can order Secret Service protection for any person he chooses. Former President Donald Trump, in his final days in office, extended the post-presidency Secret Service protection to his four adult children and two of their spouses. Only former presidents and their spouses get Secret Service protection for life. Any minor-aged children would get protection until they were 16 although most presidents extend protection for their minor children until they are out of college. Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and George W. Bush all did this for their daughters. Some presidential candidates are given protection early in the primary process, particularly if they are subject to a number of threats. Barack Obama was one of them. He was approved for protection in May 2007, marking the first time in history a presidential candidate received Secret Service protection almost two years prior to the presidential election. His rival in the Democratic primary, Hillary Clinton, already had Secret Service protection due to her status as a former first lady. Obama, the first major black presidential candidate, had received numerous death threats. The Rev. Jesse Jackson, also a major black candidate for president, drew early Secret Service protection during his campaigns for the White House in 1984 and 1988 because of threats. It's not just the president that can approve a candidate getting a Secret Service detail. The secretary of Homeland Security - the federal department that houses the Secret Service - can also approve federal protection with the permission of an advisory committee that includes the Speaker of the House, the House Minority Whip, the Senate Majority Leader, the Senate Minority Leader, and one additional member chosen by the committee. Some presidential contenders reject a protective detail, which can hamper a candidate's movements. In the 2008 presidential campaign, John McCain, who was the Republican nominee, resisted having federal protection until the last possible moment, calling it an 'inconvenience' and a 'waste of taxpayers' money.' Eight months before the election, he bowed to the 'inevitable' as he called it and accepted the detail. A full Secret Service detail usually involves a long motorcade - a lead car, a car with the candidate, a decoy car, cars with extra agents and protection, and an ambulance. Dozens of agents secure the candidate and provide security at events, putting members of the crowd through scanners and monitoring threats. Other presidential contenders hire private security through their campaign committees. Others have security details because of their current roles. Gov. Ron DeSantis, ro example, has a protective detail through his job as governor of Florida but those are state police and not federal agents. Currently, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, along with their spouses, have a fulltime Secret Service detail. Biden's two grown children and seven grandchildren, as well as Harris's two stepchildren, also have protection. Kennedy had a scare on Friday night when he was speaking at a Hispanic Heritage Month event at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre in Los Angeles, when an armed man tried to get to him. Carrying a US Marshal badge on a lanyard, a man attempted to identify himself as a member of Kennedy's security team. He was seen wearing two shoulder holsters with loaded pistols with spare ammunition. The incident took place less than two miles from the former site of The Ambassador Hotel, 3400 Wilshire Boulevard, where RFK was shot and killed in June 1968 after winning the Democratic California presidential primary. Barack Obama at the Iowa State fair in August 2007 during the 2008 presidential campaign; a Secret Service agent is visible behind him; Obama got early protection due to threats RFK Jr's uncle was assassinated in 1963: Above President John F Kennedy, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, Texas Governor John Connally and his wife Nellie Connally ride together in a convertible limousine in Dallas in 1963 shortly before shots were fired The property was later redeveloped as the Robert F. Kennedy Schools after the hotel was demolished in 2005. Kennedy shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, his thanks for the quick-thinking actions of those around him who were able to intercept the suspect. 'I'm very grateful that alert and fast-acting protectors from Gavin de Becker and Associates (GDBA) spotted and detained an armed man who attempted to approach me at my Hispanic Heritage speech at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre in Los Angeles tonight,' Kennedy wrote. 'The man, wearing two shoulder holsters with loaded pistols and spare ammunition magazines was carrying a U.S. Marshal badge on a lanyard and beltclip federal ID. He identified himself as a member of my security detail. 'Armed GDBA team members moved quickly to isolate and detain the man until LAPD arrived to make the arrest. I'm also grateful to LAPD for its rapid response. RFK Jr. added he hoped that he would be given Secret Service protection after the incident. 'I am the first presidential candidate in history to whom the White House has denied a request for protection.' RFK - a longshot for the 2024 Democratic nomination as he trails Biden 76 percent to 9 percent in the poll - lamented last month after the Biden administration denied his request for Secret Service Protection. The mother of a woman murdered alongside her partner and their two children in their suburban Illinois home has said she has no idea why anyone would want to kill them. Police found the bodies of Zoraida Bartolomei, 32, her partner Alberto Rolo, and sons Adriel, nine, and Diego, seven, during a routine welfare check on Sunday night at the home in Romeoville. All had been shot dead along with the family's three dogs at the home on the 500 block of Concord Drive. Police have ruled out a murder-suicide and warned that the gunman remains on the loose. 'They were so happy, they had just bought their new house five months ago,' said Zoraida's mother Lydia from her home in Puerto Rico. The home in Concord Avenue was sealed of police as they began their investigation yesterday Romeoville Police Deputy Chief Chris Burne told reporters that the killer is on the loose Police arrived at the scene on Sunday evening after being asked to carry out a welfare check on the family She had spoken to her daughter shortly before her death on Saturday night as the family settled down to watch a movie, and cannot understand why they were murdered. 'There are always people who are avaricious or jealous, but I've got no idea,' she added. A family member had asked officers from the Romeoville Police Department to carry out a welfare check on the family when one of the adults failed to turn up to work at 6am on Sunday and did not answer their phone. Officers found a scene of carnage when they arrived at 8.40pm that evening. Romeoville Police Deputy Chief Chris Burne revealed few details at a press conference on Monday citing the 'sensitivity of the case and the need to protect the integrity of the investigation. But he was confident that none of the dead was responsible and that the gunman left the scene. Police believe the killings took place in the Chicago suburb between 9pm on Saturday, September 16, and 5am on Sunday. Due to the time that has gone by, more than 18 hours from the time we were contacted, we are not asking anybody shelter in place, he added. We are not actively looking for anyone in the area but we do always ask our residents to have a sense of selfawareness and report anything they might see as suspicious. Police believe the killings took place in the Chicago suburb between 9pm on Saturday, September 16, and 5am on Sunday. Crime scene technicians removed several brown and pink bags along with part of a window from the three-bedroom home as the investigation got underway yesterday. El Chapo's son today pleaded not guilty to sweeping drug trafficking charges two days after being extradited to the US from Mexico. Ovidio Guzman Lopez was extradited to Chicago on Friday on charges of smuggling drugs over the border. Guzman, 33, is one of El Chapo's four sons, known as 'Los Chapitos,' who inherited their father's trafficking empire after his conviction on U.S. murder and drug charges in 2019. 'El Chapo' Guzman is serving a life sentence in a maximum-security prison in Colorado. U.S. officials said Ovidio Guzman's arrest and extradition represents a significant victory in the Biden administration's campaign to stem the deadly flow of fentanyl across the southern border. Guzman appeared in court today in an orange jumpsuit. He spoke through a Spanish interpreter. Ovidio Guzman Lopez was extradited to Chicago on Friday on charges of smuggling drugs over the border. He pleaded not guilty to drug charges in court today Ovidio Guzman Lopez is pictured during his arrest in January 2023. He was extradited to the United States on Friday to face drug charges Ovidio Guzman Lopez (shown last week) was extradited to Chicago on Friday on charges of smuggling drugs over the border Guzman was briefly arrested in Culiacan in the northern state of Sinaloa in 2019. But President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador ordered him released after hundreds of Sinaloa Cartel gunmen overwhelmed security forces in the city. Guzman was captured again in January after an intense firefight. The U.S. requested his extradition in February. Fentanyl, a highly addictive synthetic opioid, is responsive for nearly 200 American deaths a day, a toll that has strained US Mexico relations and put domestic pressure on the Biden administration to slow the spread of the deadly drug. The Sinaloa Cartel is primarily responsible for manufacturing and exporting fentanyl across the border, according to U.S. officials. In court papers, prosecutors said Ovidio Guzman and his brothers operated a massive international trafficking operation that transported drugs to the U.S. using airplanes, submarines, fishing boats and rail cars and reaped hundreds of millions of dollars in profits. The State Department has offered rewards worth millions of dollars for information leading to the capture of the Guzman brothers. 'El Chapo' Guzman rose to prominence at the helm of the Sinaloa Cartel and added to his infamy by escaping Mexican prisons not once but twice. He was extradited to the U.S. in 2017 and convicted in federal court in Brooklyn. El Chapo's wife Emma Coronel Aispuro was released from prison last week Humza Yousaf was last night accused of hypocrisy after jetting to New York to lecture global leaders on climate change. The First Minister yesterday gave a key speech at a US climate change conference where he demanded more urgency in the response to the environmental emergency. He claimed there has been catastrophic negligence in the response to the issue and said Scotland can play a key role in urging others to act. But critics highlighted the SNP/Green Governments failure to achieve its own climate change targets. And they warned of the environmental impact and huge cost to the public purse of flying the First Minister to the US to deliver his speech. Humza Yousaf gave a key speech at a US climate change conference where he demanded more urgency in the response to the environmental emergency Mr Yousaf, who arrived in New York yesterday after travelling on a commercial flight, is expected to remain in the city until Thursday to take part in a series of events around Climate Week NYC 2023. He will miss an entire parliamentary week at Holyrood, with Deputy First Minister Shona Robison set to stand in at Thursdays First Ministers Questions. Douglas Lumsden, net zero, energy and transport spokesman for the Scottish Tories, said: Its sheer hypocrisy from Humza Yousaf to lecture the world on saving the planet when his own governments environmental record is so dismal. The SNP-Green coalition are failing to meet crucial emissions targets and are now facing the threat of legal action due to their inaction on crucial climate impact assessments. Speaking at an event hosted by the Climate Group, Mr Yousaf said that the time for talking is over and action is now needed to tackle climate change. He added: When you have a crisis, you have to act with urgency the urgency that crisis demands. And Im afraid those of us in the global north were simply not responding fast enough. I ask other heads of government: are we really moving with the urgency that this crisis demands? Referring to those caught up in a series of recent weather catastrophes around the world, he said: Ask them if they think the world is prioritising its response to the climate. The truth is that we are collectively guilty of catastrophic negligence, and our children have every right to be angry and they have every right, frankly, not to forgive us if we do not step up. Mr Yousaf added: I feel, and I certainly hope, that Scotland can play a significant role in calling for greater international action, even though Scotlands population is less than this city. I say this because Scotland, in comparison to this great country, we are small. But we are also agile and we are an outward-looking nation ready to put people at the heart of our international climate action. The Scottish Government has failed eight times in 12 years to hit legally binding climate targets. Last week, it was also threatened with legal action over its failure to provide a climate impact assessment for its infrastructure investment plan. A spokesman for Mr Yousaf confirmed that he travelled to New York by commercial flight, but the Scottish Government said that full details relating to the trip would not be provided until they are proactively published in the log of ministerial travel of engagements. John OConnell, chief executive of the TaxPayers Alliance, said: Scottish taxpayers are fed up of footing the bill for these flights of fancy. Going green may require a global response but trips to conferences abroad often rack up huge costs, which could be better spent at home. In his New York speech, Mr Yousaf announced 5million of Scottish Government funding would be provided to help victims of non-economic loss linked to climate, which would include those who have suffered from health impacts, gender-based violence or nature loss. Mr Yousaf also used a news-paper article to accuse Tory ministers of climate denial, sparking claims he is resorting to grievance-mongering. But Environment Secretary Mairi McAllan defended his decision to fly to New York for the conference rather than taking part virtually. She said: Scottish ministers always think very carefully about invitations we get to travel and the ones that we take up. When it comes to the transformation that the climate emergency demands of us, it is very important to be having discussions in person and to be doing those negotiations both formally and informally. We need to do a balance... we need to conduct a lot of our work remotely, and we need to do some of it in person. A couple died after lying undiscovered in their crashed car for three days when police failed to log an emergency call from a farmer who alerted them to the wreckage, an inquiry heard. Lamara Bell, 25, and John Yuill, 28, died after the car they were in crashed on the M9 motorway near Stirling in July 2015. They were left lying in their Renault Clio for three days before being discovered, despite police previously being alerted to the incident by a farmer who witnessed the crash. When emergency services finally found the scene of the crash, Mr Yuill had died while Ms Bell was seriously injured and died later in hospital. Their deaths are the subject of a fatal accident inquiry (FAI) which got underway at Falkirk Sheriff Court today and is expected to last 'a number of weeks'. The deaths of Lamara Bell (left), 25, and John Yuill (right), 28, are the subject of a fatal accident inquiry (FAI) which started today at Falkirk Sheriff Court. The couple died after the car they were in crashed on the M9 motorway near Stirling in July 2015 The couple died after the car they were in crashed on the M9 motorway near Stirling in July 2015 (crash site pictured above) The inquiry heard how Sergeant Bryan Henry, who generally worked at Dalkeith police office, volunteered for overtime shifts in the Bilston Glen contact centre in Midlothian in June 2015. He told then chief inspector Michaela Kerr that it had been a while since he had used the Storm case management system but he was 'sure' with a 'quick refresher' he would be competent. It had been agreed he was to be trained on the call handling system and if Ms Kerr was happy with his performance, he could do the overtime shifts. Mr Henry commenced overtime shifts on June 11 2015 and was working on the day John Wilson called Police Scotland on 101 to report the crash on the M9 eastbound junction nine slip road at the M80. The inquiry heard Mr Wilson called 101 at 11.31am on Sunday, July 5 and reported the crash. Mr Henry recorded the details in his police notebook, but this was not an accurate system of recording and were his own personal notes. He undertook a web search to see whether the incident had already been reported and it had not. Ms Smith said: 'Bryan Henry did not create a Storm entry or otherwise log a call. No police action was taken.' The inquiry then heard how the families of Miss Bell and Mr Yuill made missing person reports after first checking with Police Scotland they were not in custody. A missing persons inquiry was then launched, with helicopter searches of the area where Mr Yuill's phone last connected with a mobile phone mast near Auchterarder in Perth and Kinross. Later in the week, when Ms Bell and Mr Yuill's families had learned of their fate, Mr Henry was asked about the crash which resulted in their deaths. The inquiry heard he could not remember recording the incident in the computer system. Mr Yuill and Miss Bell had been on a camping trip to Loch Earn with friends prior to their deaths. The couple was left lying in their Renault Clio for three days before being discovered, despite police previously being alerted to the incident At a hearing at the High Court in Edinburgh in September 2021, Police Scotland was fined 100,000 after pleading guilty to health and safety failings which 'materially contributed' to Ms Bell's death. Two months later, it was announced that Ms Bell's family would receive more than 1million in compensation from Police Scotland (pictured: Andrew, left, and Diane Bell, right) At a hearing at the High Court in Edinburgh in September 2021, Police Scotland was fined 100,000 after pleading guilty to health and safety failings which 'materially contributed' to Ms Bell's death. The then Chief Constable Sir Iain Livingstone apologised 'unreservedly'. Two months later, it was announced that Ms Bell's family would receive more than 1million in compensation from Police Scotland. In a statement released at the time the Bell family said the conclusion of the civil claim against the force was the end of 'chasing answers, recognition and justice for six years'. It added: 'Our pain and loss won't stop just because the legal proceedings are over but there is at least a sense of peace that comes with their conclusion. 'But that peace is fleeting because ultimately we are still without Lamara. We are without a daughter and sister and her children are without a mother..' The court heard Ms Bell pleaded for help after being found and would probably have survived had she been rescued sooner. The inquiry at Falkirk Sheriff Court heard on Monday how Ms Bell was found in 'significant pain' when she was found on Wednesday, July 8, 2015. She had to be given ketamine and a general anaesthetic as a result of her injuries. She later died at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital on Sunday, July 12. The inquiry at Falkirk Sheriff Court (pictured) heard on Monday how Ms Bell was found in 'significant pain' when she was found on Wednesday, July 8, 2015 Former Police Scotland chief constable Sir Iain Livingstone (pictured) apologised to the families of Mr Yuill and Ms Bell following the court case Mr Yuill was pronounced dead at the scene. Former Police Scotland chief constable Sir Iain Livingstone apologised to the families of Mr Yuill and Ms Bell following the court case. Similar to an inquest in England and Wales, an FAI is not a criminal inquiry and is used to establish facts rather than apportion blame. Its purpose includes determining the cause of death, the circumstances in which the death occurred and to establish what reasonable precautions could have been taken to minimise the risk of future deaths in similar circumstances. Procurator fiscal Andy Shanks, who leads on death investigations for COPFS, said: 'Following a thorough and detailed investigation and criminal prosecution, this fatal accident inquiry will look at the full circumstances surrounding these tragic deaths and help avoid such an incident happening again. 'The families of Lamara Bell and John Yuill and their legal representatives will continue to be updated as the inquiry progresses.' The inquiry, before Sheriff James Williamson, continues. Debris from the F-35 fighter jet missing since its pilot ejected over South Carolina has been found - hours after the military asked the public for help to find it. Joint Base Charleston had asked the public to call if they have 'any information that may help our recovery teams locate the F-35,' which is worth $80 million. The pilot ejected and parachuted safely into a residential area in North Charleston around 2pm Sunday. He was taken to a local hospital, where he was in stable condition, said Maj. Melanie Salinas. The pilot's name has not been released. On Monday afternoon, the military said debris from the plane had been found. A Marine Corps pilot safely ejected from a F-35 Lightning II jet over North Charleston on Sunday but his aircraft was not located until Monday afternoon 'Personnel from Joint Base Charleston and @MCASBeaufortSC, in close coordination with local authorities, have located a debris field in Williamsburg County,' the base wrote on X. 'The debris was discovered two hours northeast of JB Charleston. 'Members of the community should avoid the area as the recovery team secures the debris field. We are transferring incident command to the USMC this evening, as they begin the recovery process.' On Monday, Marine Corps Commandant Eric Smith issued a two-day stand-down for all aviation units both inside and outside of the United States that will take place at some point this week. No units will be allowed to fly until they have a two-day discussion about safety measures and procedures, according to an email seen by ABC News. Based on the missing plane's location and trajectory, the search for the F-35 Lightning II jet was focused on Lake Moultrie, around 50 miles from North Charleston, said Senior Master Sgt. Heather Stanton at Joint Base Charleston. The pilot enabled the autopilot function prior to his ejection. Were working with @MCASBeaufortSC to locate an F-35 that was involved in a mishap this afternoon. The pilot ejected safely. If you have any information that may help our recovery teams locate the F-35, please call the Base Defense Operations Center at 843-963-3600. Joint Base Charleston (@TeamCharleston) September 17, 2023 Many were poking fun at the situation online, with social media users expressing disbelief the military can't find such an expensive piece of military equipment. X, formerly Twitter, has been filled with memes mocking the military and the Biden administration over the embarrassing incident. Jeremy Huggins, spokesperson for Joint Base Charleston said that for an unknown reason, the F-35's transponder isn't working. Huggins said: 'That's why we put out the public request for help.' The jets are designed to be undetectable. 'The aircraft is stealth, so it has different coatings and different designs that make it more difficult than a normal aircraft to detect,' Huggins told the Washington Post. I just rolled into Buccees and there was this random f-35 chilling there without a pilot just idling, is there a jet missing or something? What's the deal. Can I just take this? pic.twitter.com/RBqSet0vzu Luke Bugbee (@bugmango) September 18, 2023 Having launched a public helpline, the US Military drafts in Nations greatest sleuths in search for missing jet #F35 #MissingF35 #MissingJet #USAF pic.twitter.com/6Ngvir6cmL NEWS 23/5 (@NEWS23Five) September 18, 2023 A South Carolina Law Enforcement Division helicopter joined the search for the F-35 after some bad weather cleared in the area, Stanton said. Military officials appealed in online posts Sunday for any help from the public in locating the aircraft. Officials are still investigating why the pilot ejected, authorities said. The pilot of a second F-35 returned safely to Joint Base Charleston, Salinas said. Local congresswoman, Rep. Nancy Mace, tweeted: 'How in the hell do you lose an F-35? How is there not a tracking device and we're asking the public to what, find a jet and turn it in?' Lawmakers have recently been critical of the growing cost of producing F-35s. A May 2023 report found that it costs a total of $1.7 trillion to maintain the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter program. In addition, the program is $183 billion over budget. The aircraft is made by Lockheed Martin. Military officials appealed in online posts Sunday for any help from the public in locating the aircraft Rep. Nancy Mace, tweeted: 'How in the hell do you lose an F-35? How is there not a tracking device and we're asking the public to what, find a jet and turn it in? Lake Moultrie in South Carolina, where the search was concentrated, is around 75 feet at its deepest point The planes and pilots were with the Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 based in Beaufort, not far from South Carolina's Atlantic coast. The Air Force regards accidents that 'results in death, injury, illness or property damage' to be a 'mishap,' reports the Washington Post. Following the first ever F-35 crash in 2018, that accident was referred to as a 'Class A' mishap, meaning more than $2 million worth of damage was accrued. In October last year, an F-35 jet crashed and exploded in flames at the end of a runway in Salt Lake City after the pilot ejected. After the crash, the Hill Air Force Base said it was carrying out the 'first of its kin F-35 recovery course'. The training covered how to handle different scenarios safely and effectively, such as a collapsed nose gear, pilot extraction and aircraft hoisting. 'This training is invaluable for not only our U.S. military, but also for our partner countries who operate the F-35,' Master Sgt. Andrew Wilkow, instructor and one of the course designers, said at the time. 'Unfortunately, occasional mishaps take place, which necessitates having personnel properly trained on recovery procedures and how to safely accomplish these tasks.' Large plumes of smoke were seen where the F-35 crashed, just outside of Salt Lake City, in October 2022 Flames could be seen from the downed plane in Utah after the F-35 jet crashed in October 2022 The Marine Corps Air Station at Beaufort - where the pilot took off from in the most recent incident - is about 35 miles south west of Charleston and is home to several units of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing including the Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 which flies F-35B Lightning IIs. About 4,700 military personnel serve at the 6,900 acre site which uses a large air-to-air combat area off the coast of South Carolina and Georgia, along with an air-to-ground combat and bombing range in Georgia's McIntosh County. It was home to a heavily-decorated Marine Corps pilot who died last month when his combat jet crashed near a San Diego base during a training flight. Major Andrew Mettler was piloting an F/A-18D Hornet when it went down at just before midnight on August 24 near Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. That crash was the fifth Class-A aviation mishap - meaning damage totaling over $2million or fatality - in the current fiscal year, and the first involving a Marine Corps plane, according to Task & Purpose. This incident has been confirmed to the incident known as the Cornfield Bomber. In 1970, a pilot flying a Convair F-106 Delta Dart encountered problems which forced him to eject. The lessening of the load caused by the ejection, plus the force, allowed the plane's nose to dip and saw it land safely in a farmer's field in Montana with minor damage. The aircraft is now on displace at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. A couple lay in their crashed car for three days after a police officer working overtime failed to log an emergency call properly. John Yuill, 28, died and Lamara Bell, 25, lay mortally wounded by the side of the M9 after police failed to find them despite being alerted to the crash site by a farmer. The couple, from Falkirk, were returning from a camping trip near Lochearnhead, Perthshire, when their Renault Clio plunged down an embankment at Bannockburn early on July 5, 2015. Lamara Bell, 25, lay mortally wounded by the side of the M9 and John Yuill, 28, died after police failed to find them At the start of a fatal accident inquiry into their deaths, Falkirk Sheriff Court was told yesterday that farmer John Wilson called 101 to report a car had crashed in a field near the M9 at Bannockburn. It later emerged it was the pairs Clio. The call was taken at Police Scotlands call handling centre at Bilston Glen, Midlothian, by Sergeant Brian Henry, who was then working an overtime shift as a call handler. But the inquiry heard he did not log an entry of the call on Police Scotlands STORM command and control system. Crown counsel Elaine Smith said: This resulted in the area control rooms being unaware of the incident so no police action was taken in response. The inquiry also heard that Sgt Henry destroyed notes he had scribbled on a pad at the end of his shift. Police, fire and ambulance were sent to the scene three days later, after a second person reported seeing the crashed car. Mr Yuill was already dead and Ms Bell, who had a significant head injury, was only partially conscious and in significant pain. She was flown to hospital in Glasgow where she died early on July 12. The pair had gone on the camping trip with three others and Mr Yuill was supervised on the way out by a qualified driver as he only held a provisional driving licence. But the inquiry heard that the atmosphere changed and the couple left after Mr Yuill had become upset. Emergency services were sent to the scene three days later, after a second person reported seeing the crashed car Ms Smith said that on Sunday, July 5, at around 1.20am, one of the other campers was awoken by music coming from Mr Yuills Clio and heard the engine start. Ms Smith said: At some point during the early hours John Yuill and Lamara Bell left the camp. John Yuill was the driver of the car at that time, and was not supervised in his driving. Lamara did not hold a driving licence. The rest of the group were asleep and unaware of their departure. At about 5.31am, the car was caught on a speed camera travelling northwards up the A9 near Tibbermore, between Auchterarder and Perth, at 91mph. When the families reported that the couple had failed to return home, police launched a missing persons inquiry. Police were aware both had been drinking and Mr Yuill had taken cannabis and concluded that the most likely scenario was that they had gone off the road. A helicopter search was carried out around Lochearnhead, Crieff, Greenloaning and Auchterarder, but no officers were tasked with searching the M9 south of Keir Roundabout, Dunblane. In September 2021, Police Scotland was fined 100,000 after admitting corporal criminal liability under the Health and Safety Act. The then Chief Constable Sir Iain Livingstone apologised unreservedly. Two months later, it was announced that Ms Bells family would receive more than 1million in compensation from the force. The inquiry, before Sheriff James Williamson, is set to last six weeks. Starring as the half-giant Hagrid in the Harry Potter films helped him to become one of Scotlands biggest stars. And now it has emerged that Robbie Coltrane left an estate worth almost 5million when he died last year. The will of the Scottish actor, who passed away aged 72 last October, shows he amassed a tidy fortune over his long film and television career. His former wife Rhona Gemmell was appointed to be trustee of his estate along with friend Gordon Bulloch. The stars will, which was signed in 2021, shows the gross value of his estate in the UK to be 3,848,971.21. Playing half-giant Hagrid in the Harry Potter films helped turn Robbie Coltrane into one of Scotlands biggest stars Coltrane with ex-wife Rhona Gemmell who was appointed to be trustee of his estate Coltrane also owned a property and cars in Spain, worth 776,693, and almost 300,000 worth of funds held in the United States. The actor instructed that the bulk of his wealth should be held in a trust for the benefit of his two children, Spencer and Alice. Paintings of his children by artist John Burns are also to be given to them. Coltranes sister Annie Rae was left 450,000 and a godson will receive 250,000. A model of the ocean liner RMS Aquitania, which was built on the Clyde, has been gifted to be displayed in Glasgows Riverside Museum. The will revealed Coltrane owned properties in Scotland, London and Menorca, along with a vast stocks and shares portfolio. His car collection was valued at 42,250 and he owned sculptures and works of art worth a total of 36,300. Coltrane also appeared in the hit ITV detective drama Cracker and the James Bond blockbuster movies Goldeneye and The World Is Not Enough. He was made an OBE in the 2006 New Years honours list for services to drama and was awarded the Bafta Scotland Award for outstanding contribution to film in 2011. Coltrane, whose real name was Anthony Robert McMillan, was born in Rutherglen, Lanarkshire, the son of teacher and pianist Jean Ross and family doctor Ian Baxter McMillan. He adopted the stage surname Coltrane in the 1970s in tribute to the American jazz saxophonist John Coltrane. The actor died at the Valley Royal Hospital in Larbert, Stirlingshire. His death certificate showed that he had died from a string of conditions including multiple organ failure. Harry Potter author JK Rowling said at the time of his death: Ill never know anyone remotely like Robbie again. He was an incredible talent, a complete one off, and I was beyond fortunate to know him, work with him and laugh my head off with him. I send my love and deepest condolences to his family, above all his children. Daniel Radcliffe, who played Harry Potter in the movie series, added: Robbie was one of the funniest people Ive met and used to keep us laughing constantly as kids on that set. Ive especially fond memories of him keeping our spirits up on Prisoner of Azkaban, when we were all hiding from the torrential rain for hours in Hagrids hut and he was telling stories and cracking jokes to keep morale up. I feel incredibly lucky that I got to meet and work with him and very sad that hes passed. He was an incredible actor and a lovely man. , Attica Group A transgender woman has been elected to Nashville's city council for the first time in the state's history. Navy veteran Olivia Hill, 57, is the first openly transgender person to hold any public office in Tennessee. The 'proud' Democrat and three other women won four out of five available positions to produce a historic female-majority in the city's Metro Council. She served ten years in the US Navy with two tours in the Persian Gulf including Desert Storm. The parent to two and grandparent to four children is a transgender activist and educator on women's rights. Olivia Hill has made history as the first openly trans person to hold any public office in Tennessee despite the state passing several laws aimed at the LGBTQI+ community Hill is a Democrat and won alongside three other women to produce a historic majority on the Nashville Metro Council Her election comes despite Tennessee implementing some of the strictest laws around LGBTQ+ issues. In March, the state's Republican Governor Bill Lee passed a law banning gender affirming health care for minors. He also attempted to restrict drag performances, but the law was deemed to violate freedom of speech rights enshrined within the First Amendment and overturned. According to the Human Rights Campaign, the state has passed 19 anti-LGBTQ+ laws since 2015, including bathroom bans and laws preventing trans students from playing sport in categories which match their gender identity. Hill won 37,000 votes in Thursdays general runoff election after campaigning on infrastructure, improving non-vehicle transit options and improving schools. 'I want to say that I am elated. For every trans kid in the state of Tennessee that has felt discomfort or that they didn't belong We are valid. We are who we say we are. And we are going to move forward,' she told The Tennessean. Hill came out as a transgender woman at the age of 52 and has been an activist and campaigner for the community She also campaigned for more affordable housing and measures to combat homelessness having been unhoused once herself in her early years. Hill began medically transitioning to become a woman in 2017 but said she knew from the age of five she was like her 'mother and sisters'. Her mother took her to a psychiatrist to teach her to 'be a boy' and she went on to join the Navy where she adopted a more masculine persona to fit in. But at the age of 52 she 'came out' as a woman while working for Vanderbilt University. She successfully sued the university in 2021 over workplace discrimination. Hill retired from the institution after 25 years and now sits on the Board of Directors for the Nashville LGBT Chamber of Commerce. She was selected as Grand Marshall at this year's Pride march in Nashville and is currently writing her first book. The president and first lady Jill then came over and posed for photos President Joe Biden 'crashed' a birthday party at the swanky New York restaurant Il Cantinori Sunday night while celebrating his granddaughter Finnegan's birthday. Budding TV and podcast producer Julie Balefsky shared pictures on her Instagram that showed the president coming over and wishing her a Happy Birthday, as she sported a birthday hat and 'it's my birthday' sash. The president and first lady Jill Biden also posed for a group picture with Balefsky and her friends at the restaurant, which serves $42 ravioli and $69 lamb. 'The President crashed my birthday dinner but it's still my day,' Balefsky captioned the post. She didn't respond to a request for additional comment from DailyMail.com. Budding TV and podcast producer Julie Balefsky shared a picture on her Instagram account of President Joe Biden 'crash'-ing her birthday that was being held at swanky New York restaurant Il Cantinori Sunday night Budding TV and podcast producer Julie Balefsky shared pictures on her Instagram that showed the president coming over and wishing her a happy birthday, as she sported a birthday hat and 'it's my birthday' sash Biden arrived Sunday evening to Manhattan to attend the United Nations General Assembly and headline a series of political fundraisers to benefit his reelection campaign. But before his official schedule kicked off, he spent several hours at Il Cantinori marking granddaughter Finnegan's 23rd birthday. Dr. Biden and Ashley Biden were spotted dining with the president, but Hunter, Finnegan's father, was not pictured with the group. Hunter was indicted on gun charges last week, just two days after House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced that the GOP was opening an impeachment inquiry into the president, as they try to link him to his son's controversial foreign business deals. The president has yet to officially comment on Hunter's indictment, though he did with Republicans 'lots of luck' on the impeachment inquiry, as he arrived back at the White House from Wilmington Sunday. Biden arrived Sunday evening to Manhattan to attend the United Nations General Assembly and headline a series of political fundraisers to benefit his reelection campaign The president was pictured leaving the restaurant with his daughter Ashley Biden, 42, who led him by the hand as they were flanked by bodyguards around 8pm on Sunday First Lady Jill Biden followed behind them and she waved and smiled at members of the public who whipped out their phones to capture the moment The Tuscan restaurant offers fancy dishes from broiled rack of lamb marinated with fresh herbs for $69 and grilled filet mignon in garlic cream sauce for $64, to cheaper options like the grilled seasonal vegetables for $25 Biden spent several hours in D.C. before heading to New York. The president's Air Force One touched down at JFK ahead of the UN General Assembly conference this week, where climate change, poverty and Russia's invasion of Ukraine will be top of the agenda. Biden's downtown trip snarled traffic as police blocked roads in busy parts of Manhattan to clear the way for his motorcade to travel from the heliport to the fancy hotspot - where he received a standing ovation from patrons. Biden's motorcade was spotted along 3rd Avenue as it made its way from the southern tip of Manhattan. Motorists blared their horns in frustration as they were stopped on nearby streets and several roads were shut down, causing stoppages throughout the island including inside tunnels and along the FDR highway. Il Cantinori sits along the busy East 10th Street between Broadway and University Place, near the NYU campus. The Tuscan restaurant offers fancy dishes from broiled rack of lamb marinated with fresh herbs for $69 and grilled filet mignon in garlic cream sauce for $64, to cheaper options like the grilled seasonal vegetables for $25. Prince William has met with UN chief Antonio Guterres to discuss 'efforts required to accelerate the fight against climate change and protect the environment'. The Prince of Wales and the UN Secretary-General appeared in high spirits as they toured the 93-member world body where world leaders have gathered for their annual summit. It comes during a trip to New York where the Princes of Wales will announce the finalists of the 2023 Earthshot Prize. After telling reporters it was 'so good to be back' in the US as he got waist deep in the Hudson at an Oyster project, he took a trip to the UN ahead of a 'no nonsense' climate summit being hosted by Guterres on Wednesday. After their meeting, a UN spokesperson said the pair also 'discussed efforts to enhance implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, as well as financing for development'. Leaders are also meeting at the United Nations on Monday and Tuesday on the Sustainable Development Goals, a 2015 'to-do' list that includes wiping out hunger and extreme poverty, battling climate change and achieving gender equality. Prince William also met with United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres at United Nations headquarters in New York City Fespite the gray skies and rain William waded into the East River from a small beach and put some oysters into the water William changed into a suit for his meeting with Guterres at the UN Headquarters On Governor's Island William was expected to meet schoolchildren who are studying marine biology and talk with employees of the Billion Oyster Project The Prince of Wales signed a book while meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at the United Nations Headquarters William seemed to enjoy his visit at the Billion Oyster Project as he smiled brightly Guterres warned that the goals 'need a global rescue plan.' Earlier, William heaped praise on the US, saying 'no-one does optimism and ingenuity like the American people' as he arrived at Newark airport last night on the two day trip. William, who flew commercial and was traveling without the Princess of Wales, went straight from the airport to Governor's island, which sits in New York Harbour. There he was due to learn about the Billion Oyster Project, which aims to make the waters around New York clean by putting a billion oyster shells in them by 2035 to act as natural filters. Tomorrow William will announce the 15 finalists for this year's Earthshot Prize, which awards companies and projects focusing on climate solutions. There appears to be no plans to see his estranged brother while in the US - just days after Prince Harry's Invictus Games came to a close in Dusseldorf, Germany. William, who flew commercial and was traveling without the Princess of Wales, went straight from the airport to Governor's island, which sits in New York Harbour At Governor's island he was due to learn about the Billion Oyster Project, which aims to make the waters around New York clean by putting a billion oyster shells in them by 2035 to act as natural filters This is William's first visit to New York since 2014 and was postponed from last year due to the death of his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II William set off on a boat with executive director and co founder of Billion Ouster Project Pete Malinowski The Prince was due to see the giant pile of oyster shells (pictured) that are donated by 75 restaurants in New York rather than being sent to landfill sites William helped found the awards in 2020 and each year five winners get 1m towards their project. Arriving at the airport he said: 'It's so good to be back in United States. No one does optimism and ingenuity like the American people, so it's only right we unveil this year's Earthshot finalists in New York City. '80 years ago, the world came together in this great city to find a new way, through the UN, to solve our shared challenges. 'I know our generation can take the bold action we need to make changes towards a healthy and sustainable world. The challenge may feel huge, but as John F Kennedy taught us, we rise to the challenge not because it is easy, but because it is hard. And vital'. On Governor's Island William was expected to meet schoolchildren who are studying marine biology and talk with employees of the Billion Oyster Project. He was due to see the giant pile of oyster shells that are donated by 75 restaurants in New York rather than being sent to landfill sites. And afterward - despite the gray skies and rain - he was due to wade into the East River from a small beach and put some oysters into the water. The Prince left the Princess of Wales at home with the children as he travelled to the US - with Kate also not expected to join him for the Earthshot Awards ceremony in Singapore in November. William was in Boston last year to announce the winners of the 2020 Earthshot Prize. The Prince of Wales can be seen chuckling as he speaks with children as he visits Billion Oyster Project The Prince talks with members of the project as he walks along the New York foreshore Prince of Wales interacts with others from the Billion Oyster Project to learn more about their work to revitalize New York's waterways William stands up to his waist in the water as he mucks in - putting in oysters in a bid to clean the waterway William was in Boston last year to announce the winners of the 2020 Earthshot Prize The Prince of Wales meets Pete Malinowski - executive director and co founder of Billion Oyster Project Tomorrow William will announce the 15 finalists for this year's Earthshot Prize, which awards companies and projects focusing on climate solutions William is also due to meet the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres during the week where the UN General Assembly is meeting On the trip William is scheduled to visit a fire station in Manhattan and meet with first responders and talk about mental health - his trip is just a week after the 22nd anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. Pictured: A US Coast Guard boat waits the arrival of the Prince of Wales Prince of Wales speaks to students from the Urban Assembly New York Harbor School about the Billion Oyster Project William was shown tanks indoors and pointed to different equipment used at the project site on Governor's island He asked questions and listened intently as volunteers told him more about an area with thousands of oyster shells at the Billion Oyster Project William was shown the facilities and spoke to students from the Urban Assembly Harbour School Learning more about the Billion Oyster Project's work to revitalise New York's waterways seemingly excited the Prince of Wales William founded the awards in 2020, saying he wanted to turn 'current pessimism surrounding environmental issues into optimism by celebrating the people and places driving change'. Every year between 2021 and 2030, an awards ceremony will honour winners in the prize's five categories who are creating innovations which tackle environmental issues. Each winner is given 1million to support and scale their work. But this is William's first visit to New York since 2014 and was postponed from last year due to the death of his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II. Ahead of William's arrival, a Kensington Palace spokesman said: 'The prince was incredibly appreciative for the love and support shown by the American people during that time. 'He is very much looking forward to being back in New York this week and hopefully meeting as many New Yorkers as possible' On the trip William is scheduled to visit a fire station in Manhattan and meet with first responders and talk about mental health - his trip is just a week after the 22nd anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. He is also due to meet the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres during the week where the UN General Assembly is meeting. A meeting with US President Joe Biden, who is attending, is 'unlikely', the Kensington Palace spokesman said - the two men met last year in Boston. It comes just days after his brother, Prince Harry, told veterans they 'should not feel lost without a uniform' during an emotional closing speech at the Invictus Games - three years after he was stripped of his military titles in the wake of Megxit. Prince Harry has said not to define people by their past pain or back story in an emotional farewell speech during the closing ceremony of the Invictus Games in Dusseldorf, Germany Harry and Meghan stood clapping each of the teams. He was sat next to Elke Budenbender the wife of the German President, Frank-Walter Steinmeier She looked on adoringly as the team walked on stage to Bruce Springsteen's Born in the USA. Meghan clapped along to the song as it reverberated around the Merkur Spiel-Arena and blew kisses to the team The Duke of Sussex was visibly emotional in a heartfelt speech last at the closing ceremony of the Invictus Games in Dusseldorf, Germany. The 39-year-old said during his five-minute closing speech that they 'don't need to rely on a uniform' nor should they 'feel lost without one'. Prince Harry himself has not worn a uniform since he and Meghan moved away from the UK in 2020 and he was stripped off his military titles. At the Queen's funeral last year, Harry was pictured wearing a suit while his father King Charles and his older brother Prince William were wearing their uniforms. At the Invictus Games, Harry added in his speech on why veterans don't need rely on their uniforms: 'Why? Because everything you need is already within you. Tomorrow you will each walk away with memories that are different and unique to you. 'But my hope is that every memory made, brings a smile to your face through a sense of belonging and an opportunity for you and your family to look forward with price and purpose. ' Harry also said to the competitors how their 'vulnerability' had 'opened the hearts' of millions of people all over the world. Meghan Markle stood alongside her husband in the crowd in a glowing green dress. During the ceremony she couldn't hide her pride as she beamed at Team USA when they took their place for the closing ceremony of the Invictus Games. A furious plane passenger who launched into a foul-mouthed rant at fellow passengers is a model who once claimed she dated Britney Spears' ex-husband Sam Asghari, DailyMail.com can reveal. Morgan Osman, 35, giggled after talking about her outburst in a Louboutin store in Miami, after brazenly bragging 'I said what I said' on her Instagram story. The Instagram model and swimwear designer was caught on camera having a meltdown at another coach passenger on board an American Airlines plane. It is unclear when the footage was taken or where Osman was traveling to when she started screaming, 'I'm Instagram famous, you f***ing bum'. She laughed as she asked an employee in the designer store, 'You saw me fighting on the plane', before moving on to talk about her $1,995 boots and $795 mules. Morgan Osman, 35, giggled after talking about her outburst in a Louboutin store in Miami, after brazenly bragging 'I said what I said' on her Instagram story The Instagram model and swimwear designer was caught on camera having a meltdown at another passenger on board an American Airlines plane Osman, who appeared on Bad Girls Club in 2010, also posted on her Instagram Story saying: 'Don't act like y'all don't know who tf I am. From Bad Girls Club to the South of France with billboards all over LA. Come on now.' DailyMail.com did not immediately receive a response from Osman about the incident, despite her multiple social media posts. Osman has been slammed by viewers of the footage, saying the glamourous influencer is 'entitled' and a 'clown' for throwing a tantrum on the American Airlines flight. Posting on social media she said: 'I didn't get kicked off, I asked to leave instead of it turning violent. Thank u.' Friends of hers appeared to be mocking the situation by lip-synching to the audio on Instagram, with one tagging her and saying, 'on my Morgan behavior in seat 36F, WITH my diamonds.' Osman, who lives in Miami, was caught on the 20-second clip taking her luggage from the overhead locker while shouting at a fellow passenger. Wearing a skin-tight gray unitard, she yells, 'call me a b***h again,' as the passenger filming lets out a snort of laughter. 'Call me a b****h again, I did nothing wrong!' she shouts as she holds her suitcase and a handbag by her side. It is unclear when the footage was taken or where Osman was traveling to when she started screaming, 'I'm Instagram famous, you f***ing bum' DailyMail.com did not immediately receive a response from Osman about the incident, despite her multiple social media posts Posting on social media she said: 'I didn't get kicked off, I asked to leave instead of it turning violent. Thank u' In echoes of the Tiffany Gomas 'that motherf***** isn't real' saga , Osman is causing chaos online Osman, who lives in Miami, was caught on the 20-second clip taking her luggage from the overhead locker while shouting at a fellow passenger Someone tells her to shut up, to which she responds: 'No you shut the f*** up! You shut the f*** up, and your b***h.' The brunette turns to walk down the aisle before noticing the woman filming the interaction on her phone. Furious, she turns to her and shouts: 'Film me - I'm Instagram famous, you f*****g bum.' She can be heard cussing at other passengers as she stomps down the aisle out of shot, as several people laugh at the performance. American Airlines did not immediately respond to a request for comment by DailyMail.com, and it is unclear when the footage was taken. Osman's only claim to fame is appearing on two episodes of Oxygen's Bad Girls Club back in 2010 where she was nicknamed 'The Uber B****.' Social media users were quick to make the comparison between the latest 'plane woman' and Tiffany Gomas, with one man tweeting screenshots of the two plane dramas side-by-side with the caption: 'Who did it better?' Osman has been slammed by viewers of the footage, saying the glamourous influencer is 'entitled' and a 'clown' for throwing a tantrum on the American Airlines flight She then claimed that she was dating Britney's now-estranged husband, Asgari in 2017, shortly after the pair got together. The unhinged reaction of Osman on the plane is reminiscent of Tiffany Gomas' viral plane meltdown on July 2 where she shouted 'that mother f***er isn't real' at another passenger as she left the aircraft. The 38-year-old marketing executive could be seen loudly telling a male flight attendant near her seat on the flight from Dallas to Orlando: 'Stop the f***ing plane, stop the f***ing plane, stop the plane.' Police reports show she had earlier accused a relative of stealing her AirPods, before screeching that the plane was not safe and would not make it to its destination. Social media users were quick to make the comparison between the two, with one woman tweeting screenshots of the two plane dramas side-by-side with the caption: 'Who did it better?' The Price is Right host Drew Carey has been subpoenaed to testify in the murder trial of his ex-fiancee Amie Harwick, according to a new report. The comedian, 65, was engaged to Hollywood sex therapist Harwick, 38, in 2018 - and he had a text exchange with her just two days before she was thrown off her third-floor balcony in February, 2020. Gareth Pursehouse, 44, is accused of killing Carey, who he had dated a decade prior. After they broke up in 2011, Harwick got a protective order against him and told friends she was afraid of him. While Pursehouse's name is on the defense's witness list, it's not clear if he will actually take the stand in the trial, which is underway, as reported by NewsNation on Monday. Prosecutors allege that Pursehouse broke into Harwick's Hollywood Hills home and waited for about four hours for her to return in an attempt to 'catch her by surprise' while he was carrying a syringe containing a 'lethal' dose of nicotine. He has pled not guilty. The Price is Right host Drew Carey has been subpoenaed to testify in the murder trial of his ex-fiancee Amie Harwick Gareth Pursehouse, 44, is accused of killing Carey, who he had previously dated Drew previously revealed he and Amie got back in touch just two days before she was tragically killed Drew previously revealed he and Amie got back in touch just two days before she was tragically killed - when she messaged him to say she wanted to 'get together and talk', explaining that she had been thinking about 'forgiveness' a lot. Speaking to CBS' 48 Hours, Drew explained that the former couple never got the chance to meet up - but he said that he has found 'solace' in their final interaction, knowing he was able to tell her he loved her one last time. 'Valentine's Day was a Friday. I got a text from her on Thursday,' he said. An autopsy report released by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner indicated that Amie was found with wounds on her hands and fingers 'consistent with a combination of defense and assault type wounds, suggestive of an altercation.' She was also found with injuries to the head and torso and had been strangled, and the cause of death was ruled as blunt force trauma. Harwick's restraining order against Pursehouse, had recently expired when she saw him at a pornography industry awards party run by XBIZ magazine and hosted by porn legend Stormy Daniels just one month before her death. She was reportedly at the January 16, 2020, party due to her work for a charity providing mental health support to women in the sex industry, while Pursehouse was there working as a photographer. Prosecutors allege that Pursehouse (pictured) broke into Harwick's Hollywood Hills home that night and waited for about four hours for her to return in an attempt to 'catch her by surprise' Harwick was found unconscious after falling from a third-floor balcony in her home, pictured Amie Harwick was pronounced dead on February 15, 2020, after she was found 'struggling to breathe' after apparently falling from the third-floor balcony of her Hollywood Hills home While there, Pursehouse and Harwick allegedly got into an argument, as he told her that she ruined his life and called her a 'b****.' Nearly one month later, police responded to Harwick's home on Mound Street at around 1:15 a.m., following a call by Harwick's roommate, who reported hearing screaming. The roommate has testified that he went to the back patio with police and found Harwick 'struggling to breathe.' Pursehouse was arrested days later at his Playa Del Rey home, released on a $2 million bail, but was re-arrested two days later and formally charged with murder and burglary. Carey dated Harwick for two years before the pair split in 2018, months after announcing their engagement. 'I hope you're lucky enough to have someone in your life that loves as much as she did,' Carey said on Twitter in February upon learning of her death. Harwick was a prominent Hollywood marriage and sex therapist. She appeared on TV and radio shows and wrote a book called The New Sex Bible for Women. This is the shocking moment brazen thieves ransacked a Chanel store in California - as it's revealed 'flash rob' mobs will cost the state $19billion this year. Footage showed a trio of masked men - dressed in all black - ambush the Bay Area designer store as frightened shoppers fled to the exits. The brutes were seen entering the store and grabbing handbags, backpacks and pocketbooks off the shelves as a terrified cashier says: 'Oh my god.' They then sprint out with one of the thieves falling to the ground, as shoppers screamed and others yell 'Get them!' It comes amid a spate of 'flash rob' mobs in California, with them previously targeting Nordstrom Rack, Nike and Versace. The video was posted by TikToker @Venricco is the latest smash and grab to hit the Bay Area. Saturday's crime spree was at the Chanel Outlet store The clip shows one of the thugs runnig with the stolen merchandise as a security guard is seen in the background The footage was posted online, with one person saying: 'Imagine paying hundreds of dollars for something and someone comes behind you and steals the same thing.' Others just wanted to know the location where the latest smash and grab took place. 'Where in Bay Area?' a person asked. Someone said, 'looks like Stanford shopping center in Palo Alto.' Another person chimed in 'It looks like valley fair in San Jose.' It is unclear the exact location where the incident took place and the amount of merchandise that was stolen. The rise of the 'flash rob' mobs is a distressing new crime hitting soft-on-crime California and costing the state billions, guidance from the LAPD warns. The incidents have become increasingly frequent, where detectives in the state's largest police force are now assembling designated teams to tackle the problem. The groups have been pillaging stores including Nordstrom, Nike and Versace. In response to the recent spate, officials at the Los Angeles Police Department have formed a taskforce, named the the Organized Retail Crime Taskforce (ORCT). As of the end of last month, the taskforce had made eleven arrests in connection with four cases. But detectives say the trend is not contained to the Golden State, and will end up costing America $30billion a year unless something is done. Los Angeles has been hit with a wave of high profile robberies, including stores like Gucci and Saint Laurent One recent incident included the robbery of a Nordstrom in Topanga Mall in the city, which resulted in a gang of more than 30 making off with $300,000 in goods. Videos circulating online show the thieves grabbing luxury goods from brands like Yves Saint Laurent, Burberry and Bottega Veneta. The gang had also deployed bear spray to attack two security guards at the store, allowing them to cause chaos. Several individuals are seen yanking at security tagged goods and raid clothes rails as what appears to be a member of staff usher other shoppers to stay away. Thieves are seen making for the exit, with one of them carrying a suitcase as well as other pieces of luxury luggage. The gang had swarmed the store taking armfuls of items, some inadvertently dropping goods amid the chaos, as they maneuvered around shattered glass and overturned mannequins. The LAPD later confirmed that the group had made off with items worth over $300,000. The same Nordstrom had previously been looted in November 2021 when robbers again used bear spray on a security guard and stolen designer goods. The smash and grab took place at a Macy's on August 24 that involved up to 30 suspects A thief is shown loaded down with stolen merchandise from the Nordstroms on August 12 The same Nordstrom store at Westfield Topanga, was looted in November 2021 when robbers attacked a security guard with bear spray and stole designer purses Just days before that, bystanders looked on as at least 30 brazen thieves ransacked a Saint Laurent store in Glendale. Glendale police said the thieves got away with $300,000 worth of merchandise, after they overwhelmed staff in under a minute. None of the thieves used any weapons in the scheme, and no injuries were reported. Footage from the store shows a group of hooded and masked thieves running out of the shop with armfuls of merchandise. They sprinted through a walkway to the curb, where police said 20 getaway cars were waiting for them, and sped away in several directions. One suspect seemed to have been stopped by an Amazon delivery driver, who was seen tussling with the thief. An employee later told FOX 11 that 'all merchandise was taken in less than a minute.' Speaking about the incident to KTLA, Glendale police Sgt. Victor Jackson said there was a 'short pursuit' of the suspects, but police did not locate any of them. The LAPD have since confirmed that arrests have been made in connection with this incident. A study published last week by the Public Policy Institute of California, they said that there have been significant jumps in commercial burglaries in Southern California. Commercial burglaries increased during the first year of the pandemic, after a 5.8% uptick in 2022 the rate is 15.7% higher than it was in 2019. The most recent figures from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce show that Organized Retail Theft costs the state just over $19 billion. This figure includes lost product costs, higher insurance costs, increased price of goods and unrealized wages. In announcing the new taskforce, LAPD Chief Michel Moore said in a statement: 'As Chief of Police, my primary duty is to ensure the safety and security of our community members and businesses. 'With that commitment in mind, we are taking an aggressive stance to tackle the escalating issue head-on. 'The task force will consist of highly trained detectives with expertise in theft prevention, sophisticated investigative techniques, and community engagement. 'Their mission is multi-fold: to eliminate the recent incidents of violent robberies at retail establishments, reduce incidents of organized retail theft, and foster a safer shopping environment for everyone. 'Organized retail theft is a $30billion problem in our country. 'Its impact not only affects businesses financially, but also has a broader impact on the overall sense of well-being of our community. 'Most troubling recently has been the escalation of individuals using weapons, fear and terror as they attack retail establishments. Governor Gavin Newsom, pictured here, has now announced a plan to inject additional funding to the state to help tackle the problem Last month, Los Angeles Police Protective League spokesperson Tom Saggau told Fox News that he believes the surge to be due to a zero cash bail policy. He told the outlet: 'The elimination of cash bail for these types of offenses is really an invitation to these kind of folks who are inclined to break the law and inclined to do it so brazenly.' The policy means individuals who are arrested and charged with a crime are then released from custody without having to pay bail money upfront. Saggau continued: 'Those folks need to be held accountable in a way that they've got to forfeit their freedoms.' Last week, Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom announced a plan for an additional $267 million to help fight organized retail crime. Newsom said: 'Enough with these brazen smash-and-grabs. With an unprecedented $267 million investment, Californians will soon see more takedowns, more police, more arrests, and more felony prosecutions. 'When shameless criminals walk out of stores with stolen goods, they'll walk straight into jail cells.' Joaquin El Chapo Guzmans beauty queen wife is starting anew after she was released from federal custody last week. Emma Coronel made an appearance Friday evening at Los Angeles event to support her lawyer, Mariel Colon, who performed a musical set with other artists to mark the celebration of Mexican Independence Day. Colon, who also was part of El Chapos legal team, took to Instagram to share photos of her and Coronel following her performance as a Regional Mexican soloist at the Farallon Event Center. 'I want to thank my dear friend Emma Coronel for attending my presentation yesterday in Los Angeles. Thanks for all your support,' the Puerto Rican attorney wrote. 'I love you very much! I am very happy and excited for all the good things that are coming and the new beginnings.' The United States-born Coronel opened a new Instagram account after gaining her freedom and shared two pictures with Spanish captions Sunday. Emma Coronel (right), the wife of Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman, poses with her lawyer, Mariel Colon, who performed as a Mexican Regional soloist at an event in Los Angeles on Friday, just two days after she was released from federal custody Mariel Colon, who was part of the defense team that represented Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman and his wife, Emma Coronel, in separate trial, performs at a show in Los Angeles to mark Mexico's Independence Day Sinaloa Cartel co-founder Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman is serving a life sentence in the United States One read: Focus on yourself, on your peace of mind. People are temporary, remember that whoever wants to be there, will be there. And who doesn't keep walking. Another read: Never challenge a woman who has nothing to lose. When she lost everything, she also lost fear. Coronel completed 31 months of the 36-month sentence that was handed down by a Washington, D.C. federal court November 2021 after she pleaded guilty to drug trafficking and money laundering. Terms of her plea deal included four years of supervised released and the forfeiture of $1.5 million. Coronel, who also holds Mexico citizenship, apologized at her sentencing for her role with El Chapo and the Sinaloa Cartel. The United States-born Coronel had been held at a halfway house in Long Beach, California and was released last Wednesday, according to the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Her release requires her to work at least 30 hours per week. She is also barred from being in contact with any person involved in drug trafficking or illicit activities, and is banned from visiting El Chapo in prison. Emma Coronel (left) and Mariel Colon (right) pose for a picture at a Los Angeles event Friday Emma Coronel (second to the right) is starting her life anew following her release from federal custody completed 31 months of the 36-month sentence that was handed down by a Washington, D.C. federal court November 2021 after she pleaded guilty to drug trafficking and money laundering for the Sinaloa Cartel, which was co-founded by her husband, El Chapo Although Coronel has never been charged with any crimes in Mexico, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador told reporters Monday that it will be up to the Attorney General's Office to determine if it wants to do so. 'If there is something that should be judged in Mexico, in this case, it corresponds to the Attorney General's Office of the Republic,' Lopez Obrador said. 'It is the Attorney General's Office that carries out the extradition at the request of the United States Government with the authorization of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.' His remarks were made after El Chapo's son, Ovidio Guzman, was extradited to the United States on Friday. Ovidio Guzman appeared in a Chicago federal court room Monday and pleaded not guilty to five counts, including drug trafficking and money laundering. Prosecutors accuse him and his three brothers Ivan Guzman, Jesus Guzman and Joaquin Guzman, who are otherwise known as 'Los Chapitos,' of having taken control of their father's role as bosses of the Sinaloa Cartel alongside Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada and Damaso 'El Licendiado' Lopez. 'The Chapitos subsequently amassed greater control over the Sinaloa Cartel by allegedly threatening and causing violence against Lopez Nunez, his family, and his associates and, as a result, became principal leaders and drug traffickers within the Sinaloa Cartel,' the U.S. Department of Justice said in a statement. El Chapo co-founded the Sinaloa Cartel with El Mayo and escaped twice from prison in Mexico before he was recaptured in 2016 and extradited the following year. A New York federal court found him guilty of 10 counts in February 2019 and sentenced him to life in prison five months later. He is being held at a super maximum security prison in Colorado. Prosecutors estimated that under El Chapo, the Sinaloa Cartel imported and distributed more than 1 million kilos of cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine and heroin in the United States. They estimated his fortune to worth to worth $14 billion. The matriarch of a multimillion-pound specs empire has won a court fight with her son's art gallery boss ex over claims she refused to pay back 200,000 after he called her a 'bloody cow' during a row. Hannelore Matt, co-founder of one of Germany's biggest eyewear chains, and her son Andreas Matt's Kent-based partner, Liana Fox, had been as close as mother and daughter, a court heard. But when the couple split, Mrs Fox, 61, refused to pay back nearly 200,000 which 87-year-old Mrs Matt had handed to her to buy a house for all three to use in England. Suing her for return of the money, she said Mrs Fox - who formerly ran a sculpture gallery in Canterbury - refused to pay because she took exception at being called a 'bloody cow' by Andreas during a row. But Mrs Fox, of Ashford, in Kent, claimed the money was hers, as it had been in part payment towards massive debts run up by Andreas Matt during their relationship. Hannelore Matt, pictured outside London County Court with her son Andreas, has won a court fight with his ex Liana Fox, pictured outside court, has been told by a judge to pay Ms Matt back the 200,000 she lent her to buy a property in England After a week-long trial at Central London County Court, Judge Mark Raeside KC dismissed Mrs Fox's debt claim as 'implausible' and ordered her to hand back the money she had been given. Ruling, he said Mrs Matt had considered Mrs Fox 'as close as a daughter' and trusted her enough to hand her the money towards buying a cottage in the Kent countryside for the family. But the purchase never happened and so Mrs Fox would have to hand back every penny of it, as well as interest, he said. The trial heard Mrs Matt built family business Optik Matt - which sells glasses, contact lenses, frames, sunglasses and hearing aids - from humble beginnings, after founding it with her husband Bernard Matt in 1955. It is now one of Germany's top five eyewear chains, with 82 shops, 450 employees and a multimillion-pound turnover, and is still run as a family business by three of Mrs Matt's children. Mrs Fox and Andreas started a relationship as teenagers in the 1970s, but parted, with Mrs Fox marrying in England and Andreas working for the family business in Regensburg, Germany. Mrs Fox had a son with her husband Nigel, but was widowed in 2009, before resuming her relationship with Andreas the following year. They had an official engagement in Malta, with a 15,000 euro ring bought for Mrs Fox in 2014. But Andreas found himself in trouble with the police and in 2018 was convicted and later jailed for embezzlement involving 'Euro 596,000 provided to him by a third party investor,' said his mum's barrister Jeff Hardman. Ashamed at his fall from grace, Andreas wanted to move to England and his mum advanced 225,000 euros to Mrs Fox towards jointly purchasing a property in the Kent countryside, he continued. However, the purchase never took place and, after they split in 2020, his mum then demanded the money be repaid, said the barrister. He told the judge that a series of texts had been sent by Andreas, asking for his mum's money back, to which Mrs Fox had said she could not repay it. And when asked why she could not return the cash, Mrs Fox responded: 'Bloody cows don't answer text messages...To the people who call them bloody cows. No one in my whole life has ever called me that.' He said Mrs Matt made 12 separate demands for payment before Mrs Fox abandoned her previous excuses and claimed that the money was to cover Andreas' debts. 'She has adopted and discarded arguments to suit her narrative, and has gone to extraordinary lengths to portray Mrs Matt's son as some sort of impecunious grifter,' he argued. Defending the claim, Mrs Fox insisted that she had been owed hundreds of thousands of pounds, which she had loaned to Andreas during their relationship. Much of the money had gone on 'extravagant' boy toys, including a Mercedes car, a camper van and a three wheeled flying trike, she said. Her barrister, Christopher Snell, said Andreas' earlier conviction arose from his relationship with a 'lady of means' and his then 'embezzling her money,' suggesting he had 'exhibited a similar pattern of behaviour in relation to Mrs Fox.' Suing her for return of the money, Ms Matt (pictured with her son outside court) said Mrs Fox refused to pay because she took exception at being called a 'bloody cow' by Andreas during a row 'Mrs Fox was - throughout the time of her relationship with Andreas - a lady of means,' he said. 'She had inherited significant wealth following her husband's sad demise from cancer. She had no need to borrow money from Mrs Matt - or any other person - in order to purchase a property in the United Kingdom. 'The extent of her means is clear from the amount of money that she expended during the course of her relationship with Andreas, which included...her paying his legal bills during his criminal trial, paying bail money on his behalf, and loaning him sizeable sums of money in order to make extravagant purchases.' Giving judgment at the end of the trial, Judge Raeside said Mrs Fox had 'convinced herself' that her claim that the money was to repay debts was true. She had put forward a detailed list of sums she said she was owed, but that had been compiled after the end of the relationship and not at the time the 225,000 euros was paid, he said. He found that the 225,000 euros had been entrusted by Mrs Matt to Mrs Fox, who was 'as close as a daughter,' to put towards a house in England 'no doubt for the enjoyment and use of all three of them.' 'I am quite satisfied and find as a matter of fact, on the balance of probabilities, that the 225,000 euros paid to Mrs Fox by Mrs Matt was not in respect of part payment of debts owed by Andreas Matt to Mrs Fox,' he said. 'On balance, the view I have formed is that it was the mutual intention of both Mrs Matt and Mrs Fox that this large payment was for the purpose of purchase of a house. 'I am equally satisfied that Mrs Fox knew about this. That is the plausible explanation, rather than the quite implausible case put forward by Mrs Fox..' He ordered that the 225,000 euros be repaid, along with interest. As the loser, Mrs Fox will also pay the lawyers' bills for the trial, which have not yet been quantified. READ MORE: Twist as Yes campaign rolls out stunning ad Architects of the Uluru Statement from the Heart are holding a series of public discussions to help voters in the lead-up to the referendum on a First Nations voice. Alyawarre woman Pat Anderson and Cobble Cobble woman Megan Davis will visit a series of cities to talk about the history of the Uluru Statement and origins of the voice proposal, starting in Melbourne on Monday. 'There's a lot at issue here and so we need to approach this with some joy, but also with consideration and understanding so we all know what it's about and what we're doing,' Ms Anderson told AAP. 'We're hoping to cut through the noise and let people ask what they need so we can blow away the cobwebs and do it with a good heart.' The Uluru Statement from the Heart was born from a series of regional dialogues between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people held across the country, culminating in a national constitutional convention at Uluru in 2017. Pat Anderson, pictured centre, and Megan Davis, pictured right, have started a series of conversations, providing information to people who don't know enough about the voice to parliament. Ms Anderson convened the dialogues. 'No' supporters on Monday night gathered in Adelaide where hundreds of people listened to Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price and Warren Mundine speak about the reasons not to support the voice. Mr Mundine, a leading 'no' proponent whose position is at odds with fellow campaigners because he believes in treaties, told Sky News on Monday that Australia was an amazing country where migrants and First Nations people have built incredible institutions. 'My focus, because it is such an important thing, is to defeat this lie of a referendum and crush it,' he said. 'The '67 referendum was about ... being treated as equal. 'In fact, all the racist laws and discriminatory laws in Australia disappeared after that referendum.' Section 51 (xxvi) of the Constitution known as 'the race power' - grants the Australian Commonwealth the power to make special laws for people of any race. In 2007, the federal government suspended the Racial Discrimination Act so they could enact legislation specifically targeting Aboriginal people in the Northern Territory. Ms Anderson said more than 40 'yes' marches over the weekend demonstrated what the Uluru Statement from the Heart is about: an invitation to the Australian people from First Nations people to walk with them for a better shared future. 'Ordinary Aussies showed their solidarity with us, which is what people said at the regional dialogues,' she said. 'That's why the Uluru Statement from the Heart was gifted to the Australian people - because, as participants said at the regional dialogues 'They helped us in '67, so we'll ask them, and they're going to help us again'.' Two yes advocates want to 'cut through the noise surrounding the voice' and explain its origins The conversations, hosted by Uluru Statement signatory Kirstie Parker, further the Uluru Dialogue's commitment to ensuring all Australians have all the facts so that they can make an informed decision come referendum day. 'There's so much disinformation and misinformation so much noise that people are really confused,' Ms Anderson said. 'With that confusion comes fear. 'So what we're hoping to do is to talk reasonably, walk them through a whole lot of things, tell them some stories, what people said to us at the regional dialogues, why this is important.' The anti-slavery activist whose story was turned into the hit film Sound of Freedom has angrily denied sexually exploiting seven women and taking advantage of a Mormon elder. Tim Ballard, a Utah-born former CIA agent who founded the non-profit Operation Underground Railroad in 2013, is accused by the women of pressuring them while on missions to rescue children. He did not address the sexual misconduct allegations in detail, but declared it was all untrue - and spoke passionately to deny the Church's allegations. 'It's not true, nothing you hear is true. Something evil is going on. I don't know what yet,' he said, claiming it was a plot against him, and questioning whether the Mormon church has really issued the statement. The statement was given to Vice News, which has since the summer been reporting on Ballard being forced out of the charity he founded. On Monday, the website alleged he pushed the women into sharing a bed with him or showering together, telling them it was to convince traffickers they were married. Sources told Vice News Ballard, who resigned from O.U.R. in June, sent at least one woman a photo of himself in his underwear, covered in fake tattoos. The married father-of-nine allegedly asked another woman 'how far she was willing to go' to save children. Tim Ballard (pictured in a video on social media earlier this week), a Utah-born former CIA agent who founded the non-profit Operation Underground Railroad in 2013 , is accused of pressuring women while on missions to rescue children. He is also accused of trading off a Mormon Elder's name Former CIA agent Tim Ballard - who inspired the film Sound of Freedom - has been accused by at least seven women of sexual misconduct, Vice News reported on Monday The film has been the subject of much political division, with some raising questions of factual accuracy and others criticizing it for its supposed QAnon links Following its initial US release, the film hit UK and Irish cinemas on September 1 Over the weekend, the Mormon church - of which Ballard is a part - issued a rare rebuke, condemning in a statement 'activity regarded as morally unacceptable'. They did not specify what they meant. The letter from the Church of Latter Day Saints also accused Ballard of using the name of their president, M. Russell Ballard, who is no relation. 'President Ballard and Tim Ballard (no relation) established a friendship a number of years ago,' the statement reads. 'That friendship was built on a shared interest in looking after God's children wherever they are and without regard to their circumstance. However, that relationship is in the past. 'For many months, President Ballard has had no contact with the founder of Operation Underground Railroad (OUR). The nature of that relationship was always in support of vulnerable children being abused, trafficked, and otherwise neglected. 'Once it became clear Tim Ballard had betrayed their friendship, through the unauthorized use of President Ballard's name for Tim Ballard's personal advantage and activity regarded as morally unacceptable, President Ballard withdrew his association. 'President Ballard never authorized his name, or the name of the Church, to be used for Tim's personal or financial interests. 'In addition, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints never endorsed, supported, or represented OUR, Tim Ballard, or any projects associated with them. 'President Ballard loves children, all over the world. It has been his mission and life's work to look after them, care for them, and point them to their Savior.' Tim Ballard on Monday angrily denied the Church's allegation that he had abused President Ballard's name, and said it was 'ruining his life'. 'President Ballard is like a grandfather to me,' said Tim Ballard. 'He came to me in 2011, 2012, and he told me he appreciates all the things I'm doing and wants to help me. 'I've never used Elder Ballard's name. Ever! I've never treaded on his name to ask for anything. I've never had any business dealings with him. What business deal? 'All the press in Utah is saying some Church representative is saying this. This is breaking down my family like you can't believe. 'My children are being harassed right now because everyone believes the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints - which I have defended for how many years - and no one can tell me.' He said that he did not believe the statement given to Vice, making allegations of influence-peddling, was true. 'Do you think the church would make a statement to Vice? Vice Magazine has done anti-Mormon stories like you wouldn't believe. 'Vice Magazine has done more hit pieces on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints than any other.' He also questioned why no Church officials had been able to confirm the veracity of the statement. 'Can you imagine the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints would publicly condemn one of its members without talking to the bishop, the stake president?' asked Ballard. 'I have never traded on his name to ask for anything. I've never had any business dealings with him.' Ballard has been approached by DailyMail.com for comment. Sound of Freedom has been the surprise box office hit of the summer, but its success hasn't come without controversy An anonymous letter sent to O.U.R. donors this summer, reads: 'It was ultimately revealed through disturbingly specific and parallel accounts, that Tim has been deceitfully and extensively grooming and manipulating multiple women for the past few years with the ultimate intent of coercing them to participate in sexual acts with him, under the premise of going where it takes and doing 'whatever it takes' to save a child.' In the film of his work, Ballard is played by Jim Caviezel, the staunchly Catholic star of Mel Gibson's 'The Passion of Christ', who is known for promoting QAnon conspiracy theories. His wife Katherine is played by Mira Sorvino. Ballard is shown working to rescue young girls from a Colombian sex-trafficking ring, in a plot loosely based on his own exploits - but which Ballard freely admits has been embellished. Sound of Freedom's themes have struck a chord in particular with conservatives, including mainstream Republicans interested in education and other children's issues, and evangelicals who have responded to the movie's religious overtones. It also resonated with far-right QAnon believers who have for years spread alarmist fears of child endangerment, such as the idea that a child sex-trafficking ring was being run out of a Washington DC pizza parlor, with involvement of Hillary Clinton and other senior Democrats. The was shunned by big studios and released independently, going on to become one of the most successful independent films in history. Released on July 4, it was supported by Donald Trump - who held a screening at his Bedminster golf club, and spoke to Ballard for his podcast. Yet on June 22, Operation Underground Railroad severed ties with Ballard, without explanation. The letter to donors was obtained by journalist Lynn Kenneth Packer. He read the letter in an episode of his podcast. 'Several weeks ago, an OUR employee who accompanied Tim on an undercover operation filed a sexual harassment complaint against him with OUR's HR department,' the letter reads. 'This resulted in an extensive internal investigation into Tim and his individual operational tactics and led to more women speaking up as part of the investigation process. 'It was ultimately revealed through disturbingly specific and parallel accounts, that Tim has been deceitfully and extensively grooming and manipulating multiple women for the past few years with the ultimate intent of coercing them to participate in sexual acts with him, under the premise of going where it takes and doing 'whatever it takes' to save a child.' The letter said OUR's board and lawyers had made agreements preventing executives from discussing the circumstances of Ballard's exit from the organization. They said the agreement had made it 'virtually impossible for them to defend the organization against Tim's false narratives.' OUR has not commented on the situation. The drama comes as Ballard says he is seriously considering a run for the U.S. Senate. Ballard told Sean Spicer on 'The Sean Spicer Show' this week in the video first obtained by DailyMail.com that he was asked 'several weeks ago' to look at running for the seat by 'very influential people.' Romney, 76, sent shockwaves through Congress with a surprise announcement Thursday that he would not be running for a second term. He also fired parting shots at the disarray within the Republican Party, and said Biden and Trump, like himself, were too old to serve in office. 'At the end of another term, I'd be in my mid-80s,' he said. 'Frankly, it's time for a new generation of leaders' When Ballard was approached to run for the seat even before Romney publicly announced his Senate departure, he said: 'I was very seriously considering it.' And now that Romney announced he will be stepping down, Ballard said it is 'easier' for himself to potentially stage a run for the seat. He said he will enter the race after he 'prayerfully considers the position' and if his wife Katherine supports the decision. The former agent currently lives in Utah with his wife and their nine children, two of whom they adopted from Haiti. He said based on his work, there has to be 'something done more none at the federal level' and the momentum keeps building for his potential Senate run. 'I keep getting phone calls from people,' he expressed. Ballard said the success of the film has barred him from ever working as an operator again, because his face is now recognized by traffickers and bad actors, so becoming a senator could be a good next step. The ex-agent who inspired the renowned film Sound of Freedom has become a leading voice for anti-trafficking efforts across the world. On July 4, Sound of Freedom brought in $14 million, while the newest Indiana Jones film earned only $11.5 million, according to the Post Millennial. It is now the number one movie in Latin America. As for the continued success of the Sound of Freedom film, Ballard told DailyMail.com in an exclusive interview that he's still 'shocked by it.' But he's grateful for the success because he's now getting audiences with Latin America leaders who are helping to enact change. 'And it's forcing a conversation that I think the American people have wanted to have, but didn't know how to start it,' he added. Ballard said the film wasn't intended to 'make a statement about border policy' but it came out just when it was most needed. He said the success of the film has barred him from ever working as an agent operator again, because his face is now recognized by traffickers and bad actors. Ballard was on Capitol Hill to meet with lawmakers and testify about child sex trafficking. Ballard told Sean Spicer on 'The Sean Spicer Show' this week in the video first obtained by DailyMail.com that he was asked 'several weeks ago' to look at running for the seat by 'very influential people' He told DailyMail.com in an exclusive interview ahead of his testimony before the House that Biden's open borders policy is perpetuating human trafficking in the U.S. and abroad. The Biden administration has lost track of over 85,000 unaccompanied minors that have come across the border into the U.S. over the last several years, he said. The children become easy 'prey for the traffickers' creating an 'alarming predicament' that he says is being largely ignored by the Biden administration. Republicans are heading toward a 'potential' impeachment of DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas as they expose the horrific human impact of the southern border crisis - including rampant sex trafficking and fentanyl poisonings. MANZINI Pupils will be on their own in the upcoming examinations as teachers claim they have nothing to do with it. As the third term has started, pupils in completing classes, which are Grade VII, Form III and Form V, shall be sitting their external examinations, while those in the other grades are expected to be assessed on whether to proceed to the next class. Given this and the fact that the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) had an extraordinary general meeting, wherein they resolved that, among other things; they would make operations abnormal in schools, and sensitise pupils about their Presidents (Mbongwa Dlamini) dismissal. They supposed that the destabilisation of operations in schools would be done legally, through effecting go-slows. A go-slow is a strategy or tactic, especially a form of protest, in which work or progress is deliberately delayed or slowed down. In light of this, this publication sought to establish from the unions Secretary General (SG) Lot Vilakati, on what would happen to the learners, as the third term was critical for them due to the pupils sitting examinations. Vilakati said: Examinations, whether internal or external, have nothing to do with teachers as there is the Examinations Council of Eswatini (ECESWA), which deals with that. He said teachers had always done their part regardless of the challenges they faced in schools. He said this time; they were obligated to protect one of their own as in the near future it could be another member of SNAT. At the moment, he said teachers would individually decide on how they shall engage in the proposed go-slow, while their union shall be consulting relevant stakeholders on their programmes. This, he said, shall include the preparation of the regional meetings meant to strategise on what the union shall do in their activities to pressure government. It is worth noting that government informed educators that the no-work, no-pay rule would be applied on civil servants who shall abandon their work and attend meetings during working hours. Also, in the build-up to the extraordinary general meeting held last Friday, wherein the organisation was hosting its regional branches meetings, they were barred from hosting the meetings in any of the government infrastructure by the employer. Yesterday, the Ministry of Education and Training was sought to establish what would happen during the external and internal examinations as teachers claimed they had nothing to do with them. Acting Principal Secretary in the ministry, Naniki Mnisi, had not responded to a questionnaire sent to her by the time this report was compiled. Mnisi said the issues raised were administrative and she had to consult the director of schools. It is worth noting that this is not the first time teachers have resolved not to engage in their duties during the third term. In 2018, government had to spend over E80 million in ensuring that external examinations were carried out without a hiccup. Banknotes will soon change to include the signature of the new head of the Reserve Bank of Australia. Michelle Bullock becomes the first woman to head the RBA on Tuesday when she takes over the reigns from departing governor Philip Lowe, whose seven-year tenure has come to an end. Changes in the RBA top job mean that banknotes printed from this week will also have an amendment. New governor Michele Bullock's signature will replace former governor Philip Lowe's signature The bottom corner of every banknote features the signatures of two officials - the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia and the Secretary to the Treasury. Dr Lowe's signature has featured on every banknote printed in the last seven years. It will be replaced by Ms Bullock's signature on freshly printed banknotes in the coming weeks. The RBA governor's signature has featured on every Aussie bank note since 1989. Bullock is just the ninth RBA Governor. 'Bit excited. Big challenges ahead but looking forward to it. Looking forward to working for the people of Australia. During the heady days when Ed Miliband ran Labour, he tried to court enlightened voters by posing in a designer T-shirt emblazoned with the logo: 'This is what a feminist looks like.' Somehow, this PR stunt failed to convince, and with just ten days to go until the 2015 General Election he found himself marooned a significant distance behind prime minister David Cameron in the opinion polls. There followed an emergency late-night meeting at Miliband's campaign office, where chief strategist Lord (Stewart) Wood cooked up a last-ditch plan to avoid defeat. It went as follows: Miliband would jump in a car and drive across London to the Hoxton home of Russell Brand, where he would take part in a half-hour face-to-face interview. Brand's career as a YouTuber was taking off. His online show The Trews now boasted more than a million subscribers, while his 9.5 million Twitter following was almost 20 times the size of the Labour leader's. During the heady days when Ed Miliband ran Labour, he tried to court enlightened voters by posing in a designer T-shirt emblazoned with the logo: 'This is what a feminist looks like' (pictured above) Miliband would jump in a car and drive across London to the Hoxton home of Russell Brand, where he would take part in a half-hour face-to-face interview (pictured above) If Miliband could successfully court Brand's audience, and even secure his personal endorsement, there was a chance he could trigger a 'youth-quake' of support from previously apathetic millennial voters that might somehow carry him to victory. That was the theory, at least. Of course, the scheme was not without risks. No one could predict how the interview might go. And while Brand had a huge fanbase, he also boasted a highly questionable track record. As far back as 2001, the former junkie had been arrested and charged with criminal damage and indecent exposure when he stripped naked while covering May Day protests for music station MTV. On dangerous ground politically and morally The following year, he was dismissed from the XFM radio station for reading pornographic material on air on a Sunday afternoon show. His stand-up routine was riddled with misogynistic gags about sexually exploiting women, including vile and graphic segments about spitting in the face of partners during rough sex. On his 2013 tour, he had joked about anally penetrating his pet cat, while at a West End show later that year he'd made fellow comedian Richard Herring laugh by exclaiming: 'I raped someone once.' Brand's autobiography had seen him describe writing a 'victims' list' of women he'd 'wronged as a result of my sexual addiction', saying the process made him 'feel like Saddam Hussein trying to pick out individual Kurds', while his notorious sacking from BBC radio, for conspiring with chum Jonathan Ross to broadcast degrading sexual insults about the granddaughter of actor Andrew Sachs, had been front- page news. If Miliband could successfully court Brand's audience, and even secure his personal endorsement, there was a chance he could trigger a 'youth-quake' of support from previously apathetic millennial voters that might somehow carry him to victory - but resulting interview (pictured) divided opinion Only a few months earlier, Brand had used a Newsnight interview (pictured here during a Newsnight appearance in 2012) to say he was 'open-minded' about a sick conspiracy theory that the US government was behind the 9/11 terror attacks Politically, as well as morally, Miliband was also stepping on to dangerous ground. Only a few months earlier, Brand had used a Newsnight interview to say he was 'open-minded' about a sick conspiracy theory that the US government was behind the 9/11 terror attacks. But 'Red Ed' was desperate. Ignoring protests from his shadow chancellor Ed Balls (whom Brand had charmingly dubbed 'a clicky-wristed snidey c***' on TV a couple of months earlier) and strategist Tom Baldwin (who was said to be 'shouting and screaming' that the interview would be a terrible mistake), Miliband arrived in Brand's candlelit luxury kitchen at about 10pm. The resulting interview, cut to 16 minutes, divided opinion. Supporters praised the Labour leader for expressing profound disagreement with Brand over the question of whether it was worth voting, and for agreeing to, as Miliband put it, 'go anywhere and talk to anyone to put out the message about how we can change the country'. Critics, for their part, ridiculed Miliband for adopting a nasal mockney accent to declare 'we gotta deal with that' when Brand asked whether he could force multinational firms to pay more tax, and for nodding earnestly when the comedian, a vociferous supporter of the celebrity lobby group Hacked Off, started banging on about 'unelected powerful elites who really control things' and 'powerful forces' who allegedly control the British Press. Many also voiced concerns about the self-professed 'feminist' politician breaking bread with a celebrity who had publicly confessed to sexually exploiting women. TV presenter Kirstie Allsopp wondered: 'Am I the only one who thinks Russell Brand's reputation may suggest he doesn't have the attitude to women I might hope my sons will have?' A few days later, The Mail on Sunday published an interview with Brand's former girlfriend Jordan Martin, in which she accused the comedian of making her feel 'bullied and abused' during their 2007 relationship. Many also voiced concerns about the self-professed 'feminist' politician Miliband breaking bread with a celebrity who had publicly confessed to sexually exploiting women TV presenter Kirstie Allsopp (pictured) wondered: 'Am I the only one who thinks Russell Brand's reputation may suggest he doesn't have the attitude to women I might hope my sons will have?' On one occasion, Martin said that Brand had accused her of being sexually attracted to her own brother. On others, he taunted her for not having had children. In a third ugly incident, he'd invited 'two lesbians' around to his flat for a 'group sex' session and then refused to let Martin leave when she'd declined to take part. 'I was physically, emotionally and mentally exhausted. I couldn't go along with this. I said I'd go out for a walk. But he didn't want me to go so he stood in front of me, blocking my way. So I just gave up and went into the TV room and blocked it out. It felt horrible.' A mere 24 hours after Martin's harrowing account was published, Brand formally endorsed Ed Miliband, telling fans to vote Labour on polling day. 'David Cameron might think I'm a joke. But I don't think there's anything funny about what the Conservative Party has been doing to this country and we have to stop them,' he said. A mere 24 hours after Martin's harrowing account was published, Brand formally endorsed Ed Miliband (pictured here in 2020), telling fans to vote Labour on polling day FOLLOW OUR LIVE BLOG HERE: Comedian's jokes about raping a woman emerge amid allegations of sexual assault - and claims that he sent a 'BBC car' to pick up teenage girl from secondary school Advertisement Cue delight from Miliband's loyal supporters, with the Guardian's millennial columnist Owen Jones writing a celebratory comment piece headlined: 'Russell Brand has endorsed Labour . . . and the Tories should be worried.' He argued that 'Russell Brand matters,' saying that the endorsement might swing the election 'in countless marginal seats'. In the event, of course, Russell Brand's support meant nothing. On polling day, David Cameron won an overall majority, with only 46 per cent of young voters bothering to turn out. Miliband has since remained almost entirely silent over his brief flirtation with Brand, never once explaining why he decided to court this notorious womaniser whose track record of misogyny had by then been long established. Now back in the shadow cabinet, as Sir Keir Starmer's climate change secretary, the former Labour leader is currently sticking to that policy. He has yet to comment on recent events, and appears to be hoping this increasingly ugly controversy will simply pass him by. If so, Ed Miliband surely requires a new T-shirt. By failing to apologise for this episode in his political history, he looks less like a feminist and more like a terrible coward. Keir Starmer has been accused of a 'Brexit betrayal' after vowing to rewrite the UK's deal with Brussels. Ahead of talks with French president Emmanuel Macron tomorrow, the Labour leader said he wanted to secure 'much better' arrangements with the EU. Sir Keir, who campaigned for a second referendum and supported the return of free movement, has previously told Brexit voters he would not seek 'major changes' to the deal struck by Boris Johnson. And in an interview with the Financial Times he insisted he did not want to reverse the referendum result and was focused on trying to 'make it work'. But Tories warned Sir Keir could take Britain 'back to square one' while Brussels observers said a closer deal would be possible only by signing up to EU laws. UK Labour Leader Keir Starmer speaks to the BBC at the Global Progress Action Summit on September 15, 2023 in Montreal, Canada Ahead of talks with French president Emmanuel Macron tomorrow, the Labour leader said he wanted to secure 'much better' arrangements with the EU Labour Party leader Keir Starmer arrives at the Gare du Nord in Paris with Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves (right) and Shadow Foreign Secretary David Lammy (left) ahead of his bilateral meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron Downing Street ruled out a renegotiation, saying Rishi Sunak was focusing on 'maximising opportunities' outside the EU. David Jones, a Conservative former minister, said Labour's leader appeared to be intent on 'unpicking Brexit'. He added: 'He is clearly cosying up to the EU and to Macron, who is the most Europhile member of a Europhile bunch, and who would not be seeing him unless he thinks he can get something out of Labour to his advantage. 'My big concern with Starmer is that he is preparing the ground to sign us up to perpetual alignment with EU standards. 'We would become a rule-taker and lose the freedom to strike better trade deals around the world. 'There is no doubt that free movement would also have to come back on to the table before the EU would consider a new deal. I'm surprised even Starmer thinks it's a good idea.' Craig Mackinlay, a Conservative member of the Commons European scrutiny committee, warned that Sir Keir would 'betray' Brexit if he won power. 'This is the same Keir Starmer who called for a second referendum,' he said. Keir Starmer posted a glossy video showing him meeting and greeting left-wing politicians including Justin Trudeau (right) at a summit in Montreal over the weekend Tories have voiced alarm after Keir Starmer vowed to rewrite the Brexit deal if he becomes PM 'He is someone who wants Britain to be in the EU. If he gets into No 10 then he will betray the ideals and advantages of Brexit. We will end up with more alignment with the EU, but no say over the rules it would be the worst of both worlds.' A Conservative Party spokesman said: 'Seven years on from the referendum, Keir Starmer wants to take Britain back to square one on Brexit, reopening the arguments of the past all over again. 'Keir Starmer backed Remain, then wanted a second Brexit referendum, yet now he says he accepts it.' Sir Keir arrived in Paris last night with Shadow Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves ahead of talks at the Elysee Palace with President Macron. Labour sources were tight-lipped about the agenda for today's talks. But Sir Keir is expected to discuss both his hopes for fresh Brexit arrangements and his plan to create a new immigration framework with Brussels. Last week he faced a backlash after suggesting he was willing to discuss accepting thousands of asylum seekers from the EU as a 'quid pro quo' for a deal that would allow the UK to return some Channel migrants to Europe. Yesterday Sir Keir insisted Labour would not rejoin the single market or customs union but said the UK could get a 'much better' deal. 'I do think we can have a closer trading relationship as well,' he said. 'That's subject to further discussion.' Sir Keir said he owed it to his children, aged 12 and 15, to get a better deal. 'I'm not going to let them grow up in a world where all I've got to say to them about their future is, it's going to be worse than it might otherwise have been,' he said. 'Almost everyone recognises the deal Johnson struck is not a good deal it's far too thin. As we go into 2025 we will attempt to get a much better deal for the UK.' Downing Street said that Mr Sunak would not reopen the trade and co-operation agreement brokered with Brussels in 'any way, shape or form'. A statutory review of the deal is due in 2025, but government sources said this would be focused on technical issues. The PM's spokesman said: 'We're not looking to relitigate the past or reopen it in any way, shape or form. Obviously there is a set statutory review period but beyond that we're very much focused on maximising the opportunities it presents for the public.' Brussels expert Wolfgang Munchau said Sir Keir's plan was 'based on a delusion of a similar kind, that it is possible to stay outside the single market and the customs union, and get a better deal'. Sir Keir did a panel event with Jonas Gahr Stre (left) at the summit in Montreal He added: 'This is a political lie.' Mr Munchau, director of the Eurointelligence website, said Sir Keir's 'repeated assertion that there is a better deal with the EU out there... is simply not true'. He added: 'If the EU plays hardball, as it surely will, pressure will grow from inside the Labour Party for another referendum.' Mike Gapes, a former Labour chairman of the Commons foreign affairs committee, welcomed Sir Keir's push for closer ties. But he warned the UK would not be able to have its cake and eat it and said Labour would have to make major concessions to secure a closer deal. 'Now comes the hard bit,' he said. 'The EU is treaty- and rules-based. So drop the cakeism. The UK will not be able to cherry pick our relationship.' Doctors are fighting to save a 31-year-old woman's arm after she was mauled by her two pet Rottweilers in a vicious backyard attack. Western Australian woman Nikita Piil was in the backyard of her home in Success, Perth, when her dogs Bronx and Harlem attacked her at about 4.30pm on Saturday. She suffered serious injuries to her arms and leg and remains in a serious condition at the Royal Perth Hospital. She will likely undergo surgery to save one of her arms. Perth woman Nikita Piil, 31, was rushed to hospital after being savagely mauled by her two pet Rottweillers Neighbours were alerted to the attack after hearing Ms Pill's painful screams and tried desperately to stop the dogs. Neighbours tried to stop the brutal attack by banging on the fence and spraying the canines with a hose but could not stop the dogs from mauling Ms Piil. Neighbour Bryn Spencer said he and another person heard Ms Piil's screams for about 10 minutes before they tried to intervene. Mr Spencer said he tried to stop the attack but could not access Ms Piil's backyard without putting himself in danger. 'I was contemplating jumping the fence and getting in there to rescue her but obviously there were two Rottweilers in there I would have been ripped apart,' Mr Spencer told the ABC. 'All I could really do was watch this girl get mauled apart while I was smacking the fence with a bat while (another neighbour) was hosing the dog.' Police were forced to shoot one of Ms Piil's dogs to stop it attacking her and the animal was later euthanised Ms Piil suffered serious bite wounds to her arms and legs and was rushed to hospital, where she is a serious but stable condition Mr Spencer said he pleaded with police to shoot the dogs because the pair were 'going to kill her'. Ms Pill's screams can be heard on footage captured at 4.45pm when police arrived at the property. Officers first tried to taser the dogs but that did not stop the attack. The attack ended when police shot seven-year-old Bronx, after determining the dogs were 'extremely aggressive' and Ms Piil's life was in danger. The dog was later euthanised by vets. Ms Piil's other dog, four-year-old Harlem, remains at a City of Cockburn facility while police investigate why the pair attacked their owner. Ms Piil was rushed to the Royal Perth Hospital where she remains in a serious condition. The young woman suffered major blood loss and serious bite wounds to her limbs and requires surgery to save one of her arms. The avid Rottweiler lover, who once described her dog Bronx as her 'whole world - loyal, intelligent and protective', requires surgery to save one of her arms. Ms Piils Facebook page is filled with photos of herself with her pet Rottweilers. One photo, from 2019, shows Ms Piil cuddling with a Rottweiler - however, it is unknown whether it is the same dog involved in the attack. The young woman also had a sign plastered on her front door which read: 'Beware of the Rottweiler'. Four dog breeds are restricted in Western Australia including Argentinian and Brazilian fighting Dogs, the Japanse Tosa, Pitbull terrier breeds and the Presa Canario. Rottweilers are not a restricted breed in Australia, however the breed does have a reputation for having an aggressive temperament. The breed are slightly longer than tall, ranging in height from 56 cm for a small female to 69cm for a large male and weigh between 36 to 60kg. A 2022 report by the Sydney Children's Hospital revealed Rottweilers ranked third for the most reported attacks on children. The data took account of 628 patients who presented with dog-related injuries from 2010 to 2020 and found their average age was just five-years-old. The breeds involved in the most reported attacks were Pitbulls with 10.3 per cent, followed by Labradors with 8.5 per cent and Rottweilers with 6.8 per cent. Justin Trudeau has accused the Indian government of assassinating a Sikh separatist leader on Canadian soil. The Canadian prime minister said he believes Narendra Modi's administration could be behind the fatal shooting of Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a Sikh temple in British Columbia on June 18. Trudeau has expelled a top Indian diplomat - the head of Indian intelligence in Canada - amid the controversy. It comes as tensions between the two countries grow, with Hindu nationalist leader Modi calling for Trudeau to crack down on Sikh protesters in Canada who want their own independent homeland in the Punjab district of north India, called Khalistan. Trudeau made a statement about the death of Singh Nijjar, 46, who was a strong supporter of the Khalistan movement, while addressing the Canadian House of Commons on Monday. Justin Trudeau has accused the Indian government of assassinating a Sikh separatist leader on Canadian soil. He told Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi about his suspicions 'personally and directly' during their meeting at the G20 in New Delhi earlier this month (pictured) Canadian security services believe Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar was assassinated by Indian agents when he was gunned down in British Columbia on June 18 Singh Nijjar, 46, was a strong supporter of the Khalistan separatist movement, which calls for the creation of a new independent homeland for Sikhs in the Punjab district of north India 'Today I'm rising to inform the house of an extremely serious matter,' he told MPs. 'I just informed the leaders of the opposition directly, I want now to speak with all Canadians. 'Over a number of weeks Canadian security agencies have been actively pursuing credible allegations of a potential link between agents of the government of India and the killing of a Canadian citizen, Hardeep Singh Nijjar.' Trudeau said security services were working to ensure the 'continued safety of all Canadians' and vowed that 'all steps will be taken to hold perpetrators of this murder to account'. 'Canada has declared its deep concern to the top intelligence and security officials of the Indian government,' he said. 'Last week at the G20 I brought them personally and directly to Prime Minister Modi in no uncertain terms,' Trudeau added. 'Any involvement of a foreign government in the killing of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil is an unacceptable violation of our sovereignty.' He urged the Indian government 'in the strongest possible terms' to 'cooperate with Canada and get to the bottom of this matter'. Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said 'if proven true' the assassination would be a major violation of the 'most basic rule of how countries deal with each other'. 'As a consequence we have expelled a top Indian diplomat,' she said. People mourn the death of Singh Nijjar during Antim Darshan, the first part of day-long funeral services for him, in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 25 Sikh separatists want their own independent homeland called Khalistan in the Punjab district of north India Canada is home to one of the largest overseas communities of Indian origin, which number approximately 1.4 million out of an overall Canadian population of 40 million. Around 770,000 people reported Sikhism as their religion in the 2021 Census. The two countries, which earlier this year said they could agree the outlines of a trade deal by end-2023, have now frozen talks on the agreement. Canada gave few details while India cited 'certain political developments.' Bilateral trade in 2022 amounted to just C$13.7 billion out of a total of C$1.52 trillion, according to Statistics Canada. Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc said several senior Canadian government officials had visited India recently to express Ottawa's concerns. Singh Nijjar was president of the Surrey Gurdwara in BC and Chief Coordinator of the Canadian Chapter of global Khalistan Referendum. The latter is an initiative of secessionist group 'Sikhs For Justice' (SFJ) in which Sikhs across the world are voting on the question 'Should Indian Governed Punjab Be An Independent Country?' In his final address to the community hours before he died, he urged people to continue supporting the Khalistan Referendum campaign - and spoke about threats to his life allegedly from the Indian government. Thousands of people attended his funeral at the Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Surrey where he was killed. Trudeau made a statement about the death of Singh Nijjar, 46, who was a strong supporter of the Khalistan movement, while addressing the Canadian House of Commons on Monday A diplomatic gulf has opened up between Canada and India over growing numbers of Sikh separatists in Canada, who want to establish their own homeland in the north India region of Punjab. Modi (right) has accused Trudeau's administration of failing to quash the protesters Mourners carry the casket of Singh Nijjar during Antim Darshan, the first part of a day-long funeral service for him, in Surrey, Britsih Columbia, on June 25 Sikh supporters of the Khalistan movement want to establish their own homeland due to tensions between their people and the Hindu nationalist rulers of India. These hostilities have historic roots dating back to the British colonial policies of the late 1800s and early 1900s which sought to divide believers of the two religions, according to the Hindu American Foundation. Sikhs were recruited to the British army to help subdue the Hindu rulers who rebelled against the British Raj. When India gained independence in 1947, tensions between the Sikh-dominated Punjab region and the central Indian government persisted. Amarinder Singh, the former chief minister of Punjab, blamed Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and 'Khalistani sympathizers' in Canada, Italy and the UK for a recent surge in popularity for the separatist movement. Khalistan separatists are also active in the US. One group attempted to set fire to the Indian consulate in San Francisco in June - though there was no major damage or injuries. Trudeau has urged the Indian government 'in the strongest possible terms' to 'cooperate with Canada and get to the bottom' of Hardeep Singh Nijjar's suspected murder. He spoke about it with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G20 in New Delhi earlier this month (pictured) US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller strongly condemned the reported vandalism and attempted arson, though he did not address the reasons for the protest. Similar scenes have broken out in Brisbane, Australia, and in in London, England, where protesters carrying 'Khalistan' banners detached the Indian flag from the diplomatic mission's building in the capital. India responded by asking Britain for increased monitoring of UK-based supporters of the Sikh separatist movement, and trade talks between the two nations appeared to stall as a result. Every postmaster wrongfully convicted in the Post Office IT scandal will be offered 600,000 in compensation to settle their claim, the Government has said. In a victory for the Daily Mail, those who were convicted on the basis of evidence from the faulty Horizon computer system and had their conviction overturned will be offered the money. Ministers hope the compensation will bring to an end a scandal which has been described as the most widespread miscarriage of justice in UK history. But lawyers for the victims have argued that the amount will not be enough for the many affected. The Mail has fought a ten-year battle for justice for blameless postmasters whose lives were ruined by the ordeal. Lawyers for the victims say that the 600,000 compensation will not be enough for what they lost A handful took their own lives long before a High Court judge ruled in 2019 that the system contained 'bugs, errors and defects' (Stock Photo) Many had their spotless reputations blighted by criminal records, while some suffered from depression or even took their own lives. In 1999, the Post Office rolled out the Horizon accounting IT system, but faults in the software led to shortfalls in branch accounts. Postmasters were required to 'make good' the discrepancies with their own money or face immediate suspension, dismissal or worse. I lost my home... it's too little too late For Della Robinson, the 600,000 compensation offer is 'too little too late'. She took over her local post office in Dukinfield, Greater Manchester, in 2006 but was convicted of false accounting in 2013 after flaws in the Horizon software showed 17,000 unaccounted for. Advised to plead guilty to avoid prison, Ms Robinson, 56, was sentenced to 180 hours of community service after losing her job and home. But despite having her conviction quashed more than two years ago, she is yet to receive any compensation. After learning of the Government's 600,000 offer yesterday, she said: 'I've lost years of my life because of this. It's all too little too late. 'Me and my family have had our lives ruined. We lost our business, we lost our home. 'The 600,000 is obviously meant to be good news but it's way too late for all of us.' Advertisement The Post Office wrongfully prosecuted more than 700 people between 1999 and 2015 for false accounting or theft. So far, 86 convictions have been overturned and 21million has been paid in compensation. Post Office minister Kevin Hollinrake told the Commons yesterday: 'The Government recognises that these postmasters have suffered gravely in relation to the Horizon scandal, and for too long. So should be able to settle their claims swiftly if they wish.' He said those who have had their convictions on the basis of Horizon evidence overturned will be offered 600,000 to settle. The figure was arrived at by looking at existing claims that have been processed and applying a 'generous uplift to that'. All reasonable legal fees will continue to be covered, and any postmaster who does not want to accept this offer can continue with the existing process. Those who have already received initial compensation payments or have reached a settlement with the Post Office of less than 600,000 will be paid the difference, the Government added. Any who overturn their convictions in the future based on Horizon evidence will also be entitled to the payments. Neil Hudgell works for Hudgell Solicitors, which represents 70 former subpostmasters who are seeking compensation from the Post Office after having convictions relating to the scandal overturned. He said: 'In isolation 600,000 may sound like a lot of money, and it is. 'But in many cases it is nowhere near enough to represent what has been lost over the last two decades.' Ministers have set up the Post Office Horizon IT inquiry, which is ongoing. The Post Office said it welcomed the announcement but also admitted the offer is not expected to be appropriate in every case. Chief executive Nick Read added that it 'is making good progress to pay compensation to those affected as quickly as possible'. Doctors could be forced to work on strike days under Government plans to introduce minimum safe staffing levels in hospitals. The Department of Health is launching a consultation on extending recent legislation to cover more healthcare workers as consultants begin a two-day strike today. Consultants have so far this year held four days of industrial action, while junior doctors have staged 19 days of walkouts. Junior doctors will start their next three-day strike tomorrow, meaning they will walk out at the same time as consultants for the first time. Health leaders have expressed concerns about the 'nightmare scenario' and revealed some patients are now having operations postponed two or more times due to industrial action, including growing numbers with cancer. Junior doctors hold placards during a strike, amid a dispute with the government over pay, in London on April 11 (file photo) File photo dated from January 18 this years, of a general view of staff on a NHS hospital ward The consultation considers introducing minimum service levels that would cover 'urgent, emergency and time-critical hospital-based health services'. It follows a consultation earlier this year on introducing minimum service levels in ambulance services and would bring the UK in line with countries such as France and Italy whose services continue in times of industrial action. Ministers believe minimum service levels will provide a better balance between supporting the ability of workers to strike with the safety of the public. A bill for minimum standards for rail and fire and rescue services was passed in July to ensure the sectors still run when there is strike action. Doctors and nurses were not included, which instead use a system of agreements between local union representatives and hospital bosses to determine minimum levels of working medics during industrial action days. READ MORE: Consultants demand 11 PER CENT pay rise and claim patients are 'safe' as they stage 48-hour walkout - despite health chief warning sick Brits face 'highest level of risk' during strikes Consultants walked out of hospitals at 7am this morning as part of a 48-hour strike and are providing a ' Christmas Day' level of service - meaning routine appointments and operations set to be significantly disrupted Advertisement It is unclear when it will actually come into effect but it is expected to be the start of 2024 at the earliest. Health Secretary Steve Barclay today was unable to confirm whether the move would be imposed in the next six months, telling Sky News: 'We haven't set a timescale.' Asked if it was an error not to include the medics in the legislation that came into force in July, he said: 'No, that's the enabling framework across a number of sectors.' He argued the move is now necessary to protect 'time critical' services, such as chemotherapy, dialysis and the induction of labour. Mr Barclay argued the measure would be 'proportionate' as health unions are resorting to 'increasing militancy' and alleged refusing to allow exemptions for some services. Strikes have so far cost the NHS around 1billion and the number of cancelled appointments and operations is expected to hit one million by the end of this week. Consultants and junior doctors will walk out together again on October 2, 3 and 4, which coincides with the Conservative Party conference in Manchester. The NHS is expected to see a 'Christmas Day' level of staffing when both groups are off, with emergency care as priority. The Government has given a 6 per cent pay rise to consultants and the same plus a lump sum of 1,250 for junior doctors, and has said there will be no further offers. Saffron Cordery, deputy chief executive of NHS Providers, said: 'Strikes can't become the status quo. Only the Government sitting down with the unions can end this disruption.' A tradie who was allegedly punched outside a Queensland pub has lost his fight for life as his alleged killer prepares to face court. Lincoln Hoad, 32, fell to the ground after he was allegedly hit across the back of the head during an altercation outside a pub in Dalby, 208km west of Brisbane early Saturday morning. The beloved local plumber was airlifted to Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane in a critical condition suffering a bleed on the brain. The heartbreaking decision was made to turn off his life support the following day. Shattered loved ones have hailed Mr Hoad a hero through the donation of his organs which will save the lives of others. Lincoln Hoad, 32, (pictured left with partner Shalika) has died two days after he was allegedly attacked outside a pub in Dalby Mr Hoad's partner Shalika Jade took to social media hours before his death to 'wish for a miracle'. 'I've had the absolute pleasure of having him in my life for almost 14 years as my love and throughout that time we have always chosen each other throughout everything,' she posted on Facebook. 'I love this man with my every fibre.' 'I've been set up to cuddle my sweet Lincoln all night and I've been telling him how loved he is.' Hours later, Shalika's father Tim Wonhung confirmed the heartbreaking news that Mr Hoad, 14 years after he first hired him as an apprentice plumber at the local council. 'Today we sit with Lincoln and Shalika at the PA hospital preparing for his last ultimate gift, the gift of life to many through organ donation,' Mr Wonhung wrote. 'RIP Lincoln ride well in Harley heaven Son. Heroes don't always wear capes.' Lincoln Hoad (pictured right with his partner Shalika)had his life support turned off Mr Hoad's death sparked an outpouring of tributes. 'My dear little brother Lincoln, today we lost a truly beautiful, fun loving larrikin,' his sister Melina wrote. 'I feel proud and privileged to be your sister.' A 33-year-old Capalaba man arrested shortly after the alleged attack and charged with grievous bodily harm. The man is due to appear Dalby Magistrates Court on Tuesday which has been upgraded to unlawful striking causing death following Mr Hoad's death. Lincoln Hoad (Pictured) has been remembered as a fun-loving larrikin Several online fundraisers have been set up to help Mr Hoad's loved ones with funeral expenses and difficult months ahead. 'For those of you who were fortunate enough to meet Lincoln, knew he was always there to help out, no matter who you were or what time of the day it was,' one friend wrote. 'He was an outgoing, loud, funny, loveable guy. His smile was infectious and he would know how to cheer you up straight away! He was always there when you needed to vent or have a chat. Pandas may suffer 'jetlag' just like people, if they are in zoos further north than where they normally live. Giant pandas are less active in the winter months between December and March if their zoos are outside their normal geographical range, a study has found. They also display higher levels of abnormal behaviour, like pacing. Researchers now want to investigate if pandas suffer from a form of 'seasonal affective disorder', potentially negatively affecting their mood and motivation levels, as happens with people. This could be caused by long, dark winter days which they would not experience in the wild in China. Pandas may suffer 'jetlag' if they are in zoos further north than where they normally live, a study has suggested They say zookeepers could use light and temperature to make zoos more like pandas' natural environment. This would avoid the mismatch of their body clocks with the environment they are in. This is a form of jet lag similar to what holidaymakers experience when they travel to another time zone. Pandas are extremely popular in the UK, thanks to the pair from China which have been on loan to Edinburgh Zoo for almost 12 years. Researchers have not confirmed if they looked at the Scottish pandas, but compared the behaviours of giant pandas at three zoos outside their normal geographical latitude and two zoos within their latitude for the study. The sexual behaviour of the pandas, like scent-marking objects to attract a mate or rubbing their private parts, was no different depending on whether their zoo was further north than they usually live. But the results do provide a tantalising clue of how to get pandas - which are notoriously bad at breeding and therefore endangered - to mate with each other. Authors of the study found that abnormal behaviours, such as pacing, are more common in the spring - when pandas would normally travel long distances looking for mates. This walking up and down also tends to increase when pandas are not displaying sexual behaviours. Therefore abnormal behaviours like pacing demonstrated by zoo pandas could be a sign of sexual frustration, the authors suggest - and a clue of when male and female pandas will be more in the mood for love. Zookeepers could use this information to put males and females together at various times in the year, so they become more used to each others' scents, and more willing to finally mate during the narrow one to three-day window that a female panda ovulates and can become pregnant every year. Researchers now want to investigate if pandas suffer from a form of 'seasonal affective disorder' which affects their mood and motivation However more research is needed, as the abnormal behaviour could also be frustration felt towards not being able to migrate to find bamboo. Kristine Gandia, who led the study from the University of Stirling, said: 'When their internal body clocks are not synchronised with external cues like light and temperature, animals experience adverse effects. 'In humans, a lack of daylight can cause seasonal affective disorder, so we would like to understand if something similar is happening with pandas.' The study used webcam footage from zoos to monitor giant pandas during the day and night for a year. They found pandas were less active and walked around less in zoos outside their normal geographical range during the winter, which appears to be linked to these zoos having up to 10 hours less daylight a day on average, and being colder with more widely fluctuating temperatures. This may be linked to some kind of pandas seasonal affective disorder, or just be because pandas' internal body clocks do not correctly recognise it is a time of year when they are normally more active in preparation for breeding and migration to find bamboo. The researchers did not find a link between sexual behaviour and where pandas lived, but that may be because only 11 pandas were studied. But the changes in activity seen in northerly zoos, leading in to the panda breeding season, could potentially affect the chances of breeding successfully, so researchers say zookeepers could try to keep light and temperature levels similar to pandas' natural environment. The researchers now suspect abnormal activity in zoo pandas, like the behaviour of standing on their hind legs in the morning, could be because they know that is when a zookeeper is about to feed them. The study is published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology. The moment that Apple fans have been waiting for is finally almost here, as the iOS 17 update is set to be released today. The software update includes several exciting new features, including a Live Voicemail tool and the ability to share your contact details simply by touching your iPhone to another. 'With iOS 17, we've made iPhone more personal and intuitive by deeply considering the features we all rely on every day,' said Craig Federighi, Apple's senior vice president of Software Engineering. 'Phone, FaceTime, and Messages are central to how we communicate, and this release is packed with updates we think our users are going to love.' Here's everything you need to know about iOS 17, including how and when to download it on your iPhone. The moment that Apple fans have been waiting for is finally almost here, as the iOS 17 update is set to be released today Which iPhones are compatible with iOS 17? iOS 17 will be compatible with the iPhone XS and newer models. This means you'll be able to download it if you have one of the following iPhones: iPhone 14 iPhone 14 Plus iPhone 14 Pro iPhone 14 Pro Max iPhone 13 iPhone 13 mini iPhone 13 Pro iPhone 13 Pro Max iPhone 12 iPhone 12 mini iPhone 12 Pro iPhone 12 Pro Max iPhone 11 iPhone 11 Pro iPhone 11 Pro Max iPhone XS iPhone XS Max iPhone XR iPhone SE (2nd generation or later) What time will the update be available? Apple has confirmed that the iOS 17 update will be launching today, although it is yet to announce the exact time for the release. However, based on previously updates, it's likely iOS 17 will be available at around 10:00 PT (18:00 BST). With Apple's new Check In feature, you'll automatically be notified when a family member or friend gets to their destination safely How do you download it? If you have one of the compatible iPhones listed above, once the update is released, you'll be able to download it via the Settings app. Open the app, then General > Software Update. Once iOS 17 is available, you'll be able to download it here. What are some of the key features? 1. Check In With Apple's new Check In feature, you'll automatically be notified when a family member or friend gets to their destination safely. 'After a user initiates a Check In, their friend or family member will automatically be notified as soon as the user arrives,' Apple explained. 'If they are not making progress toward their destination, useful information will be temporarily shared with the selected contact, such as the device's location, battery level, and cell service status. 'Any information shared is end-to-end encrypted.' The days of having to manually type a new friend's contact details into your iPhone are a thing of the past in iOS 17. The update includes the ability to share your contact details, simply by bringing your iPhone close to another READ MORE: Meet the world's ultimate Apple superfan David Freeman was crowned the ultimate Apple superfan in a global contest held by SellCell Advertisement 2. Live Voicemail If you're over a certain age, you'll remember old-school voicemail machines the kind that let you pick up the phone in the middle of the message if you decided the call was worth answering. Apple's bringing that back with the Live Voicemail feature, which transcribes the message in real time and lets you take the call. 'Live Voicemail gives users the ability to see real-time transcription as someone leaves a voicemail, and the opportunity to pick up while the caller is leaving their message,' Apple said. 'Calls identified as spam by carriers won't appear as Live Voicemail, and will instead be instantly declined. With the power of the Neural Engine, Live Voicemail transcription is handled on-device and remains entirely private.' 3. NameDrop The days of having to manually type a new friend's contact details into your iPhone are a thing of the past in iOS 17. The update includes the ability to share your contact details, simply by bringing your iPhone close to another. 'NameDrop allows users to easily share contact information by simply bringing their iPhones together, or by bringing an iPhone and Apple Watch together,' Apple said. 'With the same gesture, users can also share content or start SharePlay to listen to music, watch a movie, or play a game while in close proximity between iPhone devices.' 4. StandBy If your iPhone is charing across the room, it can be annoying having to stand up to check what notifications are coming through. But a new feature in iOS 17 called StandBy will make it much easier to glance over at your device. The Live Voicemail feature transcribes the message in real time and lets you take the call 'StandBy gives users a full-screen experience with glanceable information designed to be viewed from a distance when iPhone is on its side and charging,' Apple said. 'StandBy is perfect on a nightstand, kitchen counter, or desk, and can be personalised to display a range of beautiful clock styles, favourite photos, or widgets, including Smart Stacks, which surface the right widgets at the right time.' 5. Screen Distance The Screen Time tool has a new feature called Screen Distance, which will alert you if you're holding your iPhone too close to your face. 'Screen Distance uses the TrueDepth camera to encourage users to move their device farther away after holding it closer than 12 inches from their face for an extended period of time,' Apple said. 6. Autocorrect improvements iOS 17 will keep Apple's autocorrect feature from correcting one of the English language's favoured expletives to 'ducking.' 'Autocorrect receives a comprehensive update with a transformer language model, a state-of-the-art on-device machine learning language model for word prediction improving the experience and accuracy for users every time they type,' Apple said. 'It also receives a refreshed design to better support typing, and sentence-level autocorrections can fix more types of grammatical mistakes.' MBABANE A Sigangeni Member of Parliament (MP) nominee, who lost in the elections race, wants the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) to reinstate some of his votes. The votes that businessman Vusi Dlamini is demanding are for people who were turned away, while others were counted as spoilt votes during the primary elections held on August 26, 2023. Dlamini is the owner of popular eatery, Futis. The filing of the claim to the EBC came a day after the primary elections. According to some nominees, who also presented their testimonies in writing to the EBC, on the day, there were complaints raised by some members of the electorate about certain voters in the queue. It was alleged that the voters were not known by some people from the community. Affidavits The security together with the EBC officials who were on the ground, according to the affidavits that were filed to the EBC, ordered six voters to leave the voting station. It is alleged that 21 other voters were turned back but their particulars were not recorded on the day. It is alleged that these voters actually belonged to Dlamini. During the counting, drama unfolded when some of the nominees expressed that they were unhappy with the entire elections as they believed that some of the voters were not from the area. All people who had complaints were advised to file reports to the EBC. These reports were filed with the EBC on August 28, 2023. The consolidated list from the EBC suggests that the overall winner for MP candidate was Witness Dlamini with 440 votes, while Vusi was the runner-up with 432 votes. Vusi also filed with the EBC to reinstate his votes, including those which were spoilt and were found in the container that had indvuna yenkhundla nominees votes. This was on the basis that the voters who were removed from the line were said to be allowed to vote later on. Adding, it was noted that if the residents had reservations about some voters, they were supposed to have objected to the voters roll as per the Voters Registration Act, not on the day of the voting. Investigation According to findings of an investigation that was done by the EBC, during the course of the voting process, an EBC official was approached by a senior community member, who expressed concern that some of the voters in the queue were allegedly not from the area. The officer in the report by the EBC said they were not eager to remove them, given the fact that there were no objections that were made in the voters roll during the validation exercise, which was completed on July 12, 2023. He wanted them removed from the queue. I informed him that it would be illegal for us to do that since we had no proof of what he was saying. I said if the voters were registered under the inkhundla on the voters roll, there was no way we could have them removed, reads the report by the official. The report cites that a while later, the senior community member returned with the same complaint and stated that some members of the community were unhappy that there were people they did not know, who were queuing to vote. Two presiding officers were said to have been alerted, including the security personnel on the ground. I then went to the gate to assess the situation and confirmed that what he was saying was true as some members of the public were unhappy. I alerted Stream Two Presiding Officer Gcamile Dlamini and we agreed that the matter was beyond our control. I then informed the police officers present (Sergeant Aaron Magongo and Nompumelelo Mavimbela) about the situation. They also did their own assessment and advised that we approach the questionable candidates and remove them from the queue in order to bring order to the process, reads the report. According to reports that were filed to the EBC by the officer, their intention was to calm the public down and then allow them to vote later once they had ascertained what the challenge was. The six were said to have cooperated and moved out of the queue. Rumours It is reported that there were rumours that the six voters in question were to support one of the candidates MP nominee Vusi, who was also invited to join the EBC teams on the ground for a discussion on the matter. The discussion involved community leadership, Vusi, I and the security personnel. Vusi admitted knowing the potential voters and he requested that we interview them and allow them to leave, reads the report. Details of the candidates were collected and the voting process continued until the closing time. However, other nominees continued to raise concerns that they were unhappy with the elections process as they felt some of the voters were not from the area. They were also advised to document the events of the day and present them to EBC as well. It's known as the synthetic street drug that turns users into 'zombies' within minutes and can even lead to psychosis and death. Now, scientists at the University of Bath have developed a pocket-sized device that can instantly detect the presence of 'Spice', also known as 'fake weed'. The small hand-held machine lights up in the presence of the illegal substance if it's been soaked into paper or fabric a common method for smuggling into prisons. Experts think the device will be handed out to police officers and prison guards to check for Spice 'within months', once it's been cleared for rollout. With further engineering, the scientists think it will also able to detect all types of synthetic drugs, which are chemically produced in a lab. The pocket-sized device, invented by scientists at the University of Bath, lights up in the presence of illegal drugs soaked into paper or fabric. The machine detects Spice with 95 per cent accuracy, according to results How does it work? The device works by detecting the fluorescent properties that make up the core part of the synthetic cannabinoid molecule. When the device touches a material that is suspected to contain absorbed Spice, it first identifies the material its on and then tests for the presence of Spice. An alarm for Spice shows up as a glowing ring of LEDs, visible to the operator to alert them to the presence of the substance. The greater the concentration of Spice, the brighter the LEDs glow. Advertisement Scientists at the University of Bath have described their invention in a paper published in the journal Analytical Chemistry. The machine detects Spice with 95 per cent accuracy, according to their results. 'Our device is truly ground-breaking,' Professor Christopher Pudney who led the research at the university's Department of Life Sciences. 'It's battery-operated, ultra-portable, low-cost and gives instant results that anyone can interpret.' Spice which was made illegal in the UK in 2016 can be fatal and often causes severe side effects, including psychosis, stroke and seizures. The common street drug particularly causes harm among homeless communities, but it's also routinely smuggled into prisons. In many cases, Spice use has proved lethal for users both in and out of jail. The substance was involved in almost half of non-natural deaths between 2015 and 2020 in English and Welsh prisons, according to a recent report from Middlesex University. Spice takes the form of the liquid and can be sprayed on plant material that's smoked giving a similar experience to using real marijuana. But when it is smuggled into prisons it tends to be in its pure liquid form, illicitly soaked into paper or fabric such as clothing. The new device works by detecting the fluorescent properties that make up the core part of the synthetic cannabinoid molecule Professor Christopher Pudney (pictured) at the University of Bath called the device 'truly ground-breaking' READ MORE 'Zombie nation on Spice': Clip shows scary effects of synthetic drug Pictured, liquid Spice samples Advertisement 'Typically, Spice enters prisons on paper, and once it's inside, it's divided into smaller paper sheets in the prison and then sold,' Professor Pudney said. 'The paper is crumpled up and inserted into a vape pen and smoked, so detection in the prison environment is incredibly challenging.' The new device works by detecting the fluorescent properties that make up the core part of the synthetic cannabinoid molecule, which is called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). 'The core of the molecules give back some specific energies of light when we shine a bright UV light on them,' Professor Pudney told MailOnline. 'We detect these energies and that allows us to identify that the material is soaked in something suspect.' When the device touches a material, it first identifies the material it's on and then tests for the presence of Spice. 'We shine a UV light on the sample and we detect how that interacts with the material,' the academic said. If the material tests positive, an 'alarm' for Spice shows up as a glowing ring of LEDs, visible to the operator to alert them to the presence of the substance. And the greater the concentration of Spice, the brighter the LEDs glow. Spice is a brand of synthetic marijuana that often looks like real marijuana, typically packaged in colourful foil (pictured) A homeless man holds out his hand to show some spice he has bought and is intending to consume (file photo) According to Professor Pudney, if a material can soak up a liquid, it can be potentially analysed by the device for the presence of Spice. 'In reality, even if the surface doesn't absorb liquid e.g. plastic we can detect the dried on Spice,' he said. 'But the major smuggling routes are still paper and fabric.' Recently, Spice has also been added to liquids in vapes, putting unsuspecting smokers at risk. Generally, smokers are duped into smoking Spice when they have bought their vape liquid from a dealer and believe they are smoking vape liquid containing THC or cannabis oil. Even when hidden this way, however, the drug can be easily detected by the new device. 'We can spot Spice easily simply by opening a vape and testing the mouth filter,' said Professor Pudney. Developed with funding from the UK government's Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) fund, the device should be ready for mass production this autumn. Elon Musk has shut down claims that Tesla is in 'early' talks to open an EV plant in Saudi Arabia. A report from the Wall Street Journal stated Monday that Saudi Arabia has 'been wooing' Tesla with promises of the right to purchase certain quantities of metals and minerals the company needs for its EVs A deal with the Saudis could help Musk achieve his ambitious goal of selling 20 million vehicles a year by 2030 - up from just 1.3 million sold in 2022. However, Musk hit back at the WSJ on X, posting a screenshot of the article with the caption: 'Yet another utterly false article from WSJ.' Elon Musk has shut down claims that Tesla is in 'early' talks to open an EV plant in Saudi Arabia A deal with the Saudis could help Musk achieve his goal of selling 20 million vehicles a year by 2030 - up from just 1.3 million sold in 2022. However, Musk hit back at the WSJ on X, posting a screenshot of the article with the caption: 'Yet another utterly false article from WSJ.' The WSJ report claims that people familiar with the discussion said Saudi Arabia is in talks with Tesla about setting up a manufacturing facility there. The move, if true, would be part of an ambitious push by Saudi Arabia to diversify its economy away from oil and secure metals needed to make electric cars. 'The talks are at a very early stage and could fall apart. Any deal could be fraught with complications, given Tesla Chief Executive Elon Musk's contentious relationship with the Saudis,' reads the article. The report from the Wall Street Journal comes just hours after Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan asked Musk to build a vehicle factory in Turkey, according to the country's communications directorate. Musk will also meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in California on Monday. Saudi Arabia is said to be sourcing quantities of metals and minerals from other countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, the report said. Democratic Republic of Congo is said to hold the world's largest cobalt mines, mined workers 'laboring in slave-like conditions.' These workers include tens of thousands of children as young as four. But, it is unknown how Saudi Arabia will source minerals from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Saudi Arabia has been trying to shift its economy away from oil and signing billion-dollar deals with several countries to collaborate on developing, manufacturing and selling electric vehicles. The report from the Wall Street Journal comes just hours after Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan asked Musk to build a vehicle factory in Turkey A deal with the Saudis would help Musk achieve his ambitious goal of selling 20 million vehicles a year by 2030 - up from just 1.3 million sold in 2022. But Musk said the claims are false In June, Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Investment signed a $5.6 billion deal with Chinese electric car maker Human Horizon. The US-based Lucid Group announced in August that its first overseas plant in Saudi Arabia is set to start limited production of Lucid Air EVs this month. However, Musk's Tesla brand currently leads the Middle East EV market. One of the proposals the kingdom is considering involves extending financing to commodities trader Trafigura for a flailing Congo cobalt and copper project, which could help provide a Tesla factory with supplies, the WSJ report said. A Trafigura spokesperson said the trader was reviewing its options for the Mutoshi project in Congo amid rising costs and persistently low cobalt prices. Musk's talks with Saudi Arabia come just weeks after the nation sentenced Mohammad bin Nasser al-Ghamdi, 54, to death Musk has banged on the drum about the importance of free speech. However, he has not acknowledged Nasser al-Ghamdi's death sentence Tesla did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment, while Saudi Arabia's sovereign fund, the Public Investment Fund, declined to comment. Musk said in May that Tesla would probably pick a location for a new factory by the end of 2023. The company has six factories and is building a seventh in Mexico in northern Nuevo Leon state. The WSJ's claims come amid a series of high-profile human rights abuses by the authoritative regime in Saudi Arabia, which has been cracking down increasingly hard on peaceful dissent. Last month, a court sentenced a retired Saudi teacher to death over a series of critical tweets of the regime. Mohammad bin Nasser al-Ghamdi, 54, was accused of using his accounts on Twitter and YouTube to follow and promote individuals who seek to destabilize public order.' Theres something magical about stepping into a culture so unlike your own, where jungle-shrouded temples evoke island serenity or vibrant bazaars pulsate in the tranquil waves of the Mediterranean Sea. From Turkeys cultural riches to spiritual awakenings in Thailand, idyllic islands in the Maldives to the enchanting sights and sounds of Abu Dhabi, adventure awaits on far-flung shores. And with a perfectly-matched partnership between British Airways Holidays and Accor, you can explore these dazzling destinations in style. Enjoy a glamorous urban getaway in the heart of the action with Swissotel Hotels, live like royalty in one of Raffles gleaming palaces, or step into the past at a five-star Fairmont sanctuary. Or, if youre flying out with the little ones, Novotel Hotels offers a family-friendly approach to modern holidays. Once youve picked your perfect location, your hotel will be packaged up by British Airways Holidays, with flights and a 23kg baggage allowance per person. You can reserve your ATOL-protected package with deposits starting at 75 per person*, then pay off the balance in as many instalments as you like. Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Abu Dhabi Five-star city resort Fairmont Bab Al Bahr is a luxurious urban hideaway that boasts two private beaches and an Olympic-length swimming pool A kaleidoscope of colours unfolds in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates' capital city where a striking skyline blends traditional Middle Eastern architecture with towering modern skyscrapers. It's shinning jewel is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque - an immense architectural splendour. Some of the best views of the landmark are enjoyed at luxurious urban hideaway Fairmont Bab Al Bahr which enjoys unparalleled panoramas of the mosque's glittering white-marble minarets. The five-star city resort is home to irresistible bars and eight award-winning restaurants, while housing 366 spacious rooms, suites and villas. Designed with discerning business and leisure guests in mind, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr's incomparable facilities include two private beaches and an Olympic-length swimming, as well as a magnificent ballroom for lavish celebrations. British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and come with a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your holiday now with a low deposit at ba.com/fairmontbabalbahr Fairmont The Palm, Dubai Laid back, family-friendly luxury at the heart palm tree-shaped archipelago with a stay at Fairmont The Palm - renowned for the abundance of its offering With a glittering skyline flanked by the inviting waters of the Arabian Gulf, Dubai is a beacon of progress and innovation. Set on the sands of the futuristic palm tree-shaped archipelago, offering the best of Dubais glitz and glamour, youll find Fairmont The Palm. Hosting sun-soaked gulf views, 12 gourmet restaurants and eight crystalline pools, this Arabian-style sanctuary blends city-slicking sophistication with family-friendly fun. Sink into the luxurious furnishings, toast the sunset on your private balcony, and discover a world of attractions nearby,including Aquaventure waterpark, The View observatory at Nakheel Mall and discover the lively atmosphere of West Palm Beach. British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and come with a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your holiday now with a low deposit at ba.com/fairmontthepalm Novotel Bali Benoa, Indonesia A private beach makes the Novotel Bali Benoa a rare gem, located just a short drive from Ngurah Rai Airport A haven of aquatic adventure, intricately carved temples and sweeping sugary sands, Nusa Dua invites pure relaxation on Balis southern shores. A 20-minute drive from Ngurah Rai Airport, Novotel Bali Benoa offers a turquoise pool, al fresco restaurants and an elegant spa, just steps from the golden sands. This blissful beachfront retreat immerses you in your tropical surrounds with a palm-fringed central pool, glass walls in the coconut-wood rooms and early morning yoga sessions on the beach. As the little ones explore the kids club, youll savour unlimited cocktail packages, dip into the crystalline waters, or set sail for adventure on a glass-bottomed boat. British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and come with a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your holiday now with a low deposit at ba.com/novotelbali Raffles Maldives Meradhoo, Maldives A five-star resort set it paradise? Raffles Maldives Meradhoo is just that, surrounded by azure waters and a tropical climate With powdery white sands, swaying emerald palms and overwater villas offering uncompromising service, this idyllic island in the Maldives is the ultimate romantic escape. Following your arrival at Male International Airport, you'll be whisked away for a thrilling 90-minute seaplane transfer above the islands scattered like emeralds, with fringing reefs and sandbanks in shades of silver and cobalt. With a colour palette drawing inspiration from the unique marine environment, at Raffles Maldives Meradhoo you'll find a collection of villas hosting private pools and serene verandahs which promise spectacular sunrise or sunset views. Discover the wonders of two magnificent house reefs, enjoy the intimate romance of a castaway destination dining experience, and for anything else you need, your butler will be on hand. Whether plunging into the waters to meet tiger sharks up close or enjoying an al fresco dinner for two, the world is your oyster. British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and come with a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your holiday now with a low deposit at ba.com/rafflesmaldives Swissotel Resort Bodrum Beach, Turkey Directly on the waterfront in Turgutreis, Swissotel Resort Bodrum Beach offers irresistible dining and unforgettable sea views Vibrant nightlife, glorious beaches and crumbling honey-toned castles await in Bodrum, a picturesque escape on Turkeys glittering Turquoise Coast. Just 14 miles from the historic centre, Swissotel Resort Bodrum Beach steps into a new age of minimalist Alpine luxury with white and stone-coloured rooms, marble-clad bathrooms, and a cool, neutral spa. Sleek dark-wood jetties jut out in the azure waters, sun-kissed terraces enjoy infinite Aegean views, and a selection of poolside and beachfront dining options bring delight at any time of day. Step into the Purovel spa to experience the peaks of Swiss indulgence, with invigorating Alpine air and natural materials throughout. British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and come with a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your holiday now with a low deposit at ba.com/swissresortbodrum Pullman Khao Lak Resort, Thailand Bask in unforgettable sunsets over the Andaman Sea at Pullman Khao Lak Resort, boasting a 1000-sqm pool and 5-star service Set just north of the charming beach town of Khao Lak, close to the Ko Similian reefs, this spot is the perfect blend of culture, history, and tropical nature. Embraced by the crystalline waters of the Andaman Sea, Pullman Khao Lak Resort echoes a distinct heritage with a Sino-Portuguese design and walls hung with local art. Set just steps from the gleaming white sands, this nature-infused sanctuary enjoys scenic views of the verdant countryside, scattered with towering palm trees. Opt for an elegant swim-up suite to indulge in the shimmering waters, or find the perfect villa for a multi-generational trip. British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and come with a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your holiday now with a low deposit at ba.com/pullmankhaolak Whether you're looking to soak up the sun on idyllic beaches or dive into the culture of many-layered cities, enjoy a memorable holiday with British Airways Holidays and Accor. All holidays with British Airways Holidays are ATOL-protected and come with a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your next holiday now with a low deposit at ba.com/accor *Based on two sharing. Full balance due four weeks before departure for short haul or seven weeks for all other holiday bookings. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply. At first I didnt register who the nondescript blonde sitting alone at the bar was. I had only arrived in Hollywood a few months earlier and was still finding my way. After a few moments the woman turned to me and said rather sadly: They wanted me to play the lead in The Girl In The Red Velvet Swing, but Im too old. The film shed mentioned was my first starring role since arriving in the US aged 20. It suddenly dawned on me that this pale-faced woman was the fabled Marilyn Monroe. She was extremely friendly, so we started chatting. After a couple of martinis, she warned me about the harassment in Hollywood and the wolves in this town. I replied that I was well used to them after several years in the British film industry. All of us had to put up with having our bottoms patted and men leering down our cleavage, I told her. Joan Collins and George Peppard pictured in the film The Executioner, 1970 The film shed mentioned was my first starring role since arriving in the US aged 20. It suddenly dawned on me that this pale-faced woman was the fabled Marilyn Monroe Thats nothing compared to the studio power bosses, honey, Marilyn replied. If they dont get what they want, theyll drop your contract. Its happened to lots of girls. Specially watch out for Zanuck. If he doesnt get what he wants, hell fire you. Well, thanks for the advice, I said. Ill definitely keep away from him. I tried to heed her warning. But at the studio a few days later, Darryl Zanuck himself [producer of such classics as The King and I, The Longest Day, Carousel and The Snows of Kilimanjaro] pounced on me, trapping me against a wall. Breathing cigar fumes, he hissed: You havent had anyone until youve had me, honey. Im the biggest and the best and I can go all night. I was so shocked I couldnt think of anything to say. I managed to wriggle free and ran back to the set. Im glad I was speechless, because I heard that a starlet had recently been fired because when he said: Baby, Im the biggest in the business . . . she responded with: Youd better be, cause youre only five foot two! It was the stuff of legend that he had a golden replica of his manhood sitting on his desk as a paperweight. But it was true I saw it once at his office. Ugh! In the aftermath of the Harvey Weinstein scandal, the full extent of the depravity that pretty young actresses were forced to descend to for potential roles was finally out in the open and no longer continues or at least is no longer accepted. I hope. But it went on for far too many decades. I know, because I was there. My first encounter with the casting couch was while testing for the juvenile lead in the 1952 British movie I Believe in You. One of the producers had made such obvious advances that I had to dodge him by hiding in a wardrobe in the costume department, helped by sympathetic dressers, and waiting until he left the studio before taking the bus and Tube home. But after my third test he caught me and persuaded me to accept a lift home in his flashy Bentley. During the ride, he grabbed my hand and put it on his open fly. I screamed in horror and yanked my hand away. Whats the matter? Dont you want the part? he leered. Not this much, I cried, childishly bursting into tears as I realised I had blown my chances. Id never seen a naked man before, let alone felt one. Are you frigid? he hissed. It was the first time I had been called that by a man, but sadly not the last. Men who, because they were rich or powerful, thought that women were playthings could be very cruel. But the recent light that has been shed on the film industry has not just landed on the predatory institutional sexism of Hollywood its also been shed on any business run by ruthless, powerful and misogynistic men in other industries. Luckily, this producer was overruled by the director and the head of the studio, so I got that role despite his threats. However, he still pursued me, and when I told him I wasnt interested and was still a virgin he called me a frigid little witch. It wasnt just producers who were predatory. Sadly, many of the actors I worked with considered it their divine right to have sex with their leading lady. At the age of 21 I had repeatedly said no to a handsome, if short, famous actor I was working with. One night after shooting, he followed my car and when I paused at the Twentieth Century Fox exit gate, he shouted at the top of his lungs: You stupid cow youll be washed up by the time youre 23! Luckily, I was under contract and for a good salary, so I considered myself reasonably safe until I hit 27, which was widely deemed by studio bosses to be the age that women lost their sexual allure. A couple of years later, when I was doing a press junket in New York, my agent secured me an interview with a very famous producer for a part I really wanted. I dutifully went to his office at 6pm, and when I arrived, his secretary was just leaving. Hes in there. She pointed to a back room. Hes waiting for you. I entered a bedroom and a voice called, Come on in, from another door. I tentatively walked in and there he was, lying in the bath without as much as a bubble to cover his embarrassment, with which he was tinkering. Sit down, he commanded, gesturing to the end of the bath. Oh, Im fine, thank you. Ill stand. Come on in, he grinned. The waters fine. Oh, ah, no thanks. I tried not to shudder, nor notice what he was doing to himself under the soapy water. Marilyn warned me about the harassment in Hollywood and the wolves in this town. I replied that I was well used to them after several years in the British film industry. Pictured: Joan Collins in the 1960s After a few minutes chat about the film, which I argued was totally right for me as the character involved was English, he agreed I would be perfect, and then again insisted I share his bath. Im sorry, I have to go Ive got a date with my boyfriend, I stammered, horribly aware that I wouldnt get this role now. Whos your boyfriend? he asked. Oh, you wouldnt know him. Hes a young actor Warren Beatty. What are you doing wasting your time with unknown actors? he said, beginning to sound annoyed. Cmon, lets go to 21 [a New York club and restaurant] tonight. Im an important man. We can have some fun. By the way, how old are you? Twenty-five, I muttered. Twenty-five, huh? Thats not young in this business any more, sweetie. I stared at his ugly 55-year-old face, turned, and left. You wont get much further in this business, kid, if youre going to behave like a high-handed bitch!, he called after me. American Kim Novak got the role of the Cockney tart, but her accent left a lot to be desired. Another role that I coveted around that time was that of the Egyptian queen Cleopatra. Both the head of Fox, Buddy Adler, and the chairman of the board a Greek gentleman old enough to be my grandfather had bombarded me with propositions and flowers, culminating in promises to cast me as Cleopatra if only I would be nice to them. They both used this euphemism, quite prevalent in Hollywood at the time. I couldnt and I wouldnt the very thought of these old men touching me was utterly repugnant. So I dodged and I dived and hid around the lot and made excuses while the studio tested me for Cleopatra ad infinitum, with various actors who, to say they were wooden would be unkind to trees. At one point Mr Adler cornered me to dance with him at a glamorous industry party. He told me I would have the pick of the scripts after Cleopatra and that he would set me up in an apartment which he would pay for as long as he could come and visit me three or four times a week. Having run out of excuses, I blurted out: Mr Adler, I came here with my agent, Jay Kanter. Why dont we discuss this deal with him? Honey, you have quite a sense of humour, he said. And a sense of humour is all youll ever get from me, I murmured as I left him on the dance floor. Elizabeth Taylor got to play the part opposite Richard Burton, another predatory actor I had played opposite in the 1957 war film Sea Wife. Richard had told me that if I didnt go to bed with him I would break his record. Whats that? I asked. Ive slept with all my leading ladies, he bragged. After a few moments Marilyn turned to me and said rather sadly: They wanted me to play the lead in The Girl In The Red Velvet Swing, but Im too old. Well, Im not going to be another notch on your well-punched belt, so I guess I am going to break your record! He barely spoke to me for the rest of filming. Likewise, George Peppard. We were making The Executioner together and after attending a party to celebrate the start of filming, he dropped me off at my house in London, then tried to grab me. When I pushed him away, saying I was married and had two small kids, he accused me of being totally square. Not to speak ill of the dead (but I will!), Mr Peppard proved an eager beaver in the amorous department. Wearing nothing but knickers and a sheet during our first love scene, I was at somewhat of a disadvantage as all six foot two of him was splayed on top of me. The wardrobe lady had swiftly pulled the sheet away at the last minute as he came in for the kill. I tried a closed-mouth screen kiss, but he wasnt having any of that and attempted the full-on Frenchie. When I politely extricated his tongue from my throat for the fourth time, I became angry. I protested to our director, Sam Wanamaker, while Mr Peppard looked on in amusement as the make-up department tried to reconstruct both our lipstick-covered faces. Just do it a little less forcefully, George, said Sam persuasively. OK, growled the great star, and off we went again. Action! Sheet off, Peppard on, tongue in ugh! Sam was finally satisfied and cried: Cut. Did you enjoy that? smirked George. No, I hated it. And you didnt have to be quite so methody, I retorted as I struggled back into my robe to cover my nakedness, trying not to be the days cabaret act for the crew. Youre such a prude, he sneered. Most actresses love it. Well, Im not one of them. I stalked off, speechless with fury. After this, George became so angry and petulant that we communicated only through our respective make-up people and during our scenes. When George was cast as the lead in a new serial drama called Oil, he was so difficult that the producer Aaron Spelling fired him. They recast with John Forsythe, retitled it Dynasty . . . and the rest is history. I dont think I could have stood nine years working with George Peppard. Another memorable but distasteful kiss was on the super-yacht of legendary producer Sam Spiegel, moored in a gorgeous bay outside Cannes. I was with Roger Moore and David Niven and their respective wives, looking forward to a birthday celebration for Sam. Twenty of us were seated on deck at a long table filled with flowers. Roger made a toast to the birthday boy, then added: And its Joanies birthday today too! Thats wonderful! Congratulations, honey, beamed Spiegel. And have I got a present for you, little lady. He lumbered up to me and plonked a tonsil-probing smacker, complete with snake-like tongue, on my lips. Roger thought it was hilarious as I sat there gobsmacked with a sickly smile on my face. The table whooped with glee as I surreptitiously wiped my mouth on my napkin. The following day I came down with a virulent strain of flu and had to spend the next three days in bed. I work in a profession where hugs, kisses and physical contact is the norm, but call me cold and aloof and I try not to be I dont willingly participate. How I admire the Japanese cultures sensible approach in which people just bow and nod their heads when they meet, be it friends, acquaintances, or strangers. Arriving at airports, I arm myself with enough hand sanitiser, nose-blocking gel and baby wipes to stock a corner chemist. Scared to get the flu even after having had the flu jab, I protect myself from the zillions of invisible germs that lurk on door handles, lift buttons and supermarket trolleys. In the aftermath of the Harvey Weinstein scandal, the full extent of the depravity that pretty young actresses were forced to descend to for potential roles was finally out in the open and no longer continues or at least is no longer accepted. I hope But I believe the deadliest germ carriers are other peoples hands and faces. The bane of my life is the bear hug followed by a sloppy kiss on the cheek from total strangers. As I was brought up at a time where you didnt kiss or hug anyone except your close family, and it was the norm to seldom receive much affection from your parents past the age of ten, this overt physical warmth is something I cant adjust to. My mother was a germophobe long before it was trendy. When she took me out in the pram, strangers would often coo over me and get far too close for her comfort, so she felt compelled to have a sign printed, which she put on the blanket covering her little darling, stating: Please do not kiss me. Unfortunately, I no longer have that sign, as it would still be useful! Its interesting that the #MeToo movement and the condescending new HR guidelines that proscribe the traditions of luvvie-land and make it verboten to get too close to your colleagues suit me fine, even if I disagree with the nannying. Now after the curtain comes down, actors are not supposed to fraternise, presumably with each other and much less with the management and production staff. If those had been the rules in 2000, I would never have been able to date my husband when we met in San Francisco and toured the US. Percy Gibson was managing the Love Story company and I was playing opposite George Hamilton. Luckily, George was not one of those actors who spray you with saliva when you have a scene in close proximity. Ever the gent, we worked together several times on television, and he has never parted his lips or done the French during a kissing scene. So, dear reader, if I dont accept your kisses, hugs and handshakes, it doesnt mean I dont like you. It just means I dont want to catch your germs. Halle Berry took to Instagram on Sunday to celebrate her decade-long partnership with Watch Hunger Stop. The program is part of The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), which, 'helps feed children in schools around the world so that they can grow, learn and thrive.' The campaign starts each October, which, 'puts the spotlight on their life-changing work with all profits from the sale of our limited-edition LOVE tote and pouch going to support WFPs school meals program.' The 57-year-old actress - who made headlines for blasting Drake for using an image of hers without permission for the cover art of his new single - celebrated her 10th year with Watch Hunger Stop with a new snap on Instagram. She also revealed that this year she's teaming up with fellow actress Kate Hudson for this year's campaign, sharing a snap of both actresses. Partnership: Halle Berry took to Instagram on Sunday to celebrate her decade-long partnership with Watch Hunger Stop 'Celebrating 10 years and counting! A decade ago, I teamed up with for #WatchHungerStop, a campaign launched to support the @WorldFoodProgramme,' Berry began. 'Since then over 30 million school meals have been provided to children around the world!' Berry continued. 'For its 10th anniversary, @katehudson and I teamed up to lend our support once again this years campaign, launching Oct. 1,' she added. 'Head to my bio to find ways you can support and be a part of watching hunger stop around the world!' she concluded. Her bio includes a link to the World Food Programme, where you can donate to support the work Watch Hunger Stop does. 'Your gift will help the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) deliver school meals to children in need around the world,' the website reveals. 'A daily school meal gives a child the nutrition they need to thrive, and the education they need to build a better life for themselves and their community,' the organization added. 'A gift of $15 feeds a hungry child in school for two months; $50 means daily school meals for a year,' they added. Halle Berry called out Drake for using her photo without permission to promote his latest single with SZA called Slime You Out - and uploaded a cryptic Instagram post on Friday in response. Celebrating: ' Celebrating 10 years and counting! A decade ago, I teamed up with for #WatchHungerStop, a campaign launched to support the @WorldFoodProgramme,' Berry began Campaign: 'For its 10th anniversary, @katehudson and I teamed up to lend our support once again this years campaign, launching Oct. 1,' she added Called out: Halle Berry called out Drake for using her photo without permission to promote his latest single with SZA called Slime You Out - and uploaded a cryptic Instagram post on Friday in response The Monster's Ball actress, 57, who recently stunned at the Michael Kors NYFW show, appeared in cover art for the newly dropped track which was a throwback image of her getting slimed at the 2012 Nickelodeon's Kids' Choice Awards. However, the Oscar winner was less than thrilled that her slimed image was being used to promote the collaborative song on social media - which was released on Friday. She uploaded a message on her main Instagram page which read, 'Sometimes you have to be the bigger guy...even if you're a woman!' While the post didn't directly mention Drake, 36, she responded to social media users in the comment section where she labeled the music artist's action as 'not cool.' Daisy Lowe, Mary Charteris and Jaime Winstone wowed in glamorous gowns at Annie's Ibiza Capsule Collection for LFW on Sunday. Model Daisy, 34, made a stylish arrival at at Apollo's Muse in Mayfair shortly after the Erdem show earlier during the day. She looked classy in a light pink patterned dress and shielded her shoulders with a feathered-sleeve jacket. Lady Mary, 36, looked effortlessly chic in a strapless pink mini dress that detailed sparkly embellishments and bejewelled beads. The model and DJ looked the epitome of class in the glamorous dress and accessorised with a mini pink handbag. Wow: Model Daisy made a stylish arrival at at Apollo's Muse in Mayfair shortly after the Erdem show earlier during the day for London Fashion Week on Sunday Squad: Daisy Lowe, 34, Mary Charteris, 36, and Jaime Winstone, 38, (left to right) wowed in glamorous gowns at Annie's Ibiza Capsule Collection for LFW She flashed her long toned legs and showcased her slender physique in the stunning gown. Jaime Winstone put on a show-stopping display in a velvet purple dress and posed up a storm for the cameras. The actress, 38, sported a very animated dress that detailed long collars and tassels on the bottom of the dress. Jamie was pictured larking and dancing around in the venue while holding a glass of prosecco and appeared to be in great spirits. It comes after Daisy sold her Camden townhouse for 1.82million - after she was sued by a celebrity builder for not paying a 45,000 refurbishment bill. The fashion model bought the three-storey period property for 1.55million in 2017 and set about updating it, with trendy decor and a new kitchen extension. She sold it last year for 1.82million - 20,000 more than the asking price of 1.8million. The model excitedly told followers on Instagram that she and her partner Jordan Saul are ready to take on a new renovation project together. Chic: Jaime put on a show-stopping display in a velvet purple dress and posed up a storm for the cameras (pictured with Daisy) Gorg: She looked classy in a light pink patterned dress and shielded her shoulders with a feathered-sleeve jacket (pictured with Lady Mary) Stunning: Lady Mary looked effortlessly chic in a strapless pink mini dress that detailed sparkly embellishments and bejewelled beads Letting loose: Jamie was pictured larking and dancing around in the venue while holding a glass of prosecco and appeared to be in great spirits Posting images of her former pad in north London, the star said: 'While Ivy is napping I am finally getting to sit down and start planning our new renovation. 'I am feeling very excited to make a new nest for us (and slightly nervous my baby brain might take over and make every single thing pink). 'These are the pictures @inigo.house took of mine & @jordanjaysaul first home together. 'I am really proud of what we created after lots of blood sweat and tears! Now onto the next.' The house lies close to the one owned by Amy Winehouse when she died and is in a celeb-filled enclave. Daisy became embroiled in a row with her former builder last year after he claimed she still owed him money for her kitchen extension. But the fashion model claimed the work hadn't been up to scratch. Daisy and Jordan welcomed their first child, daughter Ivy, in April. The Real Housewives of Sydney reboot is set to drop on streaming giant Binge from October 10. And a new trailer for the reality series teases plenty of fireworks as season one stars, former model Krissy March and one time Miss Australia Nicole O'Neill, join a new cast of society high-flyers. Based on the preview, fans can expect plenty of glam, bling and next-level nastiness, as the show takes an inside peek at seven of Sydney's elite women and their spectacular lifestyles. The preview features new cast members including divorced mum and wellness fanatic Caroline Gaultier as well as entrepreneur and fashionista Dr Kate Adams. Also featured are Swiish wellness brand entrepreneur and cancer survivor Sally Obermeder and business woman and footy WAG Terry Biviano. Completing the cast is Victoria Montano owner of luxury sport brand fashion label, Sport Luxe. The trailer begins with spectacular shots of the prestigious Eastern Suburbs of Sydney, where the women reside. 'I think people have the view that it [the eastern suburbs] is full of snobs and people who think they are better than other people,' explains one of the housewives. She then adds: '...And they're actually pretty spot on.' Other scenes in the trailer features the housewives flirting with a hunky service assistant at an A-list function, glossy shopping outings and harbour side cocktail parties. The Real Housewives of Sydney reboot is set to drop on streaming giant Binge from October 10. And a new trailer for the reality series teases plenty of fireworks Pictured: Former model Krissy March in a scene from the new trailer One time Miss Australia Nicole O'Neil, who appeared in Real Housewives of Sydney season one, joins a new cast of society high-flyers for the Binge reboot Based on the preview, fans can expect plenty of glam, bling and next-level nastiness, as the show takes an inside peak at seven of Sydney's elite women and their spectacular life styles At one point in the trailer one of the ladies observes: 'People say money doesn't buy you happiness - but it makes it a whole better.' Meanwhile, fans are treated to shots of enormous mansions and one of the housewives gargantuan shoe collection. Still, the preview teases plenty of bitchy banter as one of women described their social set as featuring 'enormous egos', while one cast member is caught on camera asking her mates: 'So who are we burning at the stake tonight?' It comes after Krissy Marsh revealed recently she was reluctant to return to The Real Housewives of Sydney franchise following her controversial appearance on the show in 2017. 'Sydney's eastern suburbs are full of sobs' says one cast member in the new trailer The cast of the Real Housewives of Sydney reboot: Krissy Marsh, Sally Obermeder, Victoria Montano, Terry Biviano, Dr Kate Adams, Nicole O'Neil and Caroline Gaultier The former model, 51, appeared in the original season on Foxtel before it was axed after one season. Speaking to Sydney Confidential last month, Marsh admitted that she originally declined an offer from Binge to reprise her role, but eventually changed her mind after chatting to fellow returning cast-mate Nicole O'Neil. Marsh teased that viewers can look forward to plenty of friction amongst the cast, even if the producers have promised a show that is less 'nasty' than the notorious antics of season one. The housewives flirt with a hunky service assistant at an A-list function in the new trailer One of women described their social set as featuring 'enormous egos', while one cast member is caught on camera asking her mates: 'So who are we burning at the stake tonight?' Fans of the original season would remember the controversial moment when housewife Lisa Oldfield 'sl*t shamed' Marsh live on camera. During the scandalous scene, Oldfield accused Marsh of being 'fu**ing embarrassment, a sl*t and a wh*re', while members of the public watched on in horror. Following the shocking incident, Marsh fled to China to avoid watching the episode go to air. The Real Housewives of Sydney was cancelled in 2017 after just one season, with Foxtel bosses claiming American TV networks had snubbed the show for being 'too extreme'. The Bachelorette star Georgia Love has revealed her surprising new career move. The former reality-turned-media star, 34, announced on Monday that she's landed as a radio newsreader in the mornings for KIIS FM in Melbourne. Taking to her Instagram account, the former TV newsreader shared a selfie of her smiling while sitting behind the microphone in the studio. 'Always been told I've got a face for radio! Exciting and super fun new gig taking to the airwaves to bring Melbourne your news on KISS 101.1,' she wrote in her caption. Love's announcement was met with countless support from her friends and fans in the comments. Georgia Love announced on Monday that she's landed as a radio newsreader in the mornings for KIIS FM in Melbourne 'Congratulations and exciting new beginnings!' one user wrote. 'Congratulations I'll be listening out for that familiar voice, added another. Love has jumped around a number of high-profile media jobs in the last two years. She began her career in journalism at WIN News, before her profile skyrocketed in 2016 when she was cast on Channel 10's The Bachelorette. Love has jumped around a number of high-profile media jobs in the last two years. She began her career in journalism at WIN News, before her profile skyrocketed in 2016 when she was cast on Channel 10's The Bachelorette She went on to become a casual reporter for Ten Eyewitness News in Melbourne, later rebranded 10 News First, but was let go due to budget cuts in early 2021. The role was what she described as her dream job, before jumping ship to rival network Channel Seven in February 2021. But Love's TV career came to a grinding halt seven months later after she made headlines for all the wrong reasons. She went on to become a casual reporter for Ten Eyewitness News in Melbourne, later rebranded 10 News First, but was let go due to budget cuts in early 2021 The role was what she described as her dream job, before jumping ship to rival network Channel Seven in February 2021 In September 2021, Love posted a video to her Instagram account asking whether a cat was on the menu at a Chinese restaurant after seeing the animal in the window. 'Shop attendant or lunch?!' she captioned her post at the time. She also posted a similar 'joke' about pets and Chinese restaurants in 2013. Critics claimed the footage was offensive and perpetrated a harmful stereotype about Chinese people. Love deleted the video an hour later and apologised for causing 'offence', but at the time denied the post had any racist 'insinuation'. Georgia sparked backlash in September 2021 for sharing footage (above) of a cat behind the window of an Asian restaurant and writing: 'Shop attendant or lunch?!' Following a workplace investigation, Seven alerted staff via email later that week that Love had been 'counselled' and reassigned to an off-camera role 'effective immediately'. Last month, Love finally addressed the scandal after staying silent in the wake of the backlash. Speaking to Stellar magazine, the media personality called out cancel culture while also apologising for her actions. Instagram account Aussie Influencer Opinions discovered another of Love's posts from February 2013 in which she made a similar joke about pets and Asian restaurants 'I hate the term cancellation. To think that we have the ability to cancel somebody whether that means from their industry, their job, their family and friends. We don't have the ability to do that,' she said. Love said cancel culture is unfair because people aren't afforded the opportunity to defend themselves in the 'heat of the moment'. She also lamented about the fallout from the scandal, telling the magazine: 'I had my dream job. I felt so lucky every day to be doing what I loved and what I had dreamed of for so long. 'So to have lost that on-air job I stayed working at Seven, but I was taken off air in the fallout was probably the hardest thing for me, because I've always put a lot of emphasis and focus on my work and my career.' Georgia and husband Lee Elliot were later called out for promoting tourism to Saudi Arabia. The Middle Eastern country has been condemned globally in recent years for its abuse of human rights on its people. Purple Wiggle John Pearce is certainly putting the hot in potato. The children's entertainer, 31, who joined the group in 2021, sent a New York radio host Danielle Monaro into a frenzy when he took off his iconic skivvy. Appearing on radio station Z100 New York, John set pulses racing as he removed his top, revealing his muscled, mahogany chest. 'Danielle, you're joining us at our show tomorrow,' John said. 'So I thought what better way, I'll just give you my skivvy,' he added. John took off the top with him wearing just a white singlet. The star's muscular arms and chest were clearly visible. 'Oh my god,' the room erupted. Another of the announcers could be heard saying: 'this dude is jacked' Danielle joked about how she 'can't even look' as she clutched onto the shirt. Purple Wiggle John Pearce, 31, sent a New York radio host into a frenzy as he flaunted his muscular physique during an interview on Z100 New York last week. Pictured Danielle Monaro (pictured) was given his skivvy with the entire studio erupting in surprise at John's muscular chest and arms when he stripped down to just a white singlet The Wiggles are currently on their Ready, Steady, Wiggle tour of America. The group will be stateside and in Canada during September and October. John told Australia's Stellar magazine in March he is careful about taking off his top nowadays after taking on the role of children's entertainer. 'Taking your shirt off and being a kid's entertainer is not in the same room. I'm totally aware of all that,' he told the publication. 'You know, we have to be super careful. People are entitled to their opinions and say what they like.' John told Australia's Stellar magazine in March he is careful about taking off his top nowadays after taking on the role of children's entertainer He continued: 'I try not to let any of the comments, positive and negative, affect what I'm here for - and that's making music for children.' Pearce recently spoke about the attention he's received for his good looks, particularly from the mothers of his young audience. Talking to news.com.au he said he's thankful to have the support of his wife-of-four-years Jessie Pearce. Pearce recently spoke about the attention he's received for his good looks, particularly from the mothers of his young audience. Seen here on Australian Ninja Warrior She's loving it. She's a super supportive wife and she's always been like that since day one,' he said. 'I think it's great to have a person in your life who is going to bring the best out in you and she's always been on board with that sort of stuff.' Jessie currently works in the fashion industry. Pearce said she may be joining him when The Wiggles begin their 2023 tours. A Channel Seven star has laid out a wild theory about Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness' split just days after the Australian couple announced their marriage was over. Cooper Lawrence, a US broadcaster, appeared on the breakfast program to discuss the pair's separation and what went wrong. The radio host shared some interesting insight into why Hugh and Deborra-Lee might have split. She believes the pair could have waited until their son Oscar and daughter Ava were old enough to avoid a messy custody battle. 'Here's my theory: Oscar's 23, and Ava is 18. So I think they were waiting until the kids were old enough that they can have an amicable split and not worry about child custody or how much everybody's going to pay each other every month,' she told hosts Matt Shirvington and Natalie Barr. 'When you split up the kids, and they're young, that's the stuff that usually messes up a divorce. 'They don't have to worry about that because the kids are older. So now they can just split their multi millions and split all their properties.' Cooper added to the theory and believed that Hugh and Deborra-Lee had already begun dividing up their property portfolio after they placed their 'dream' house on the market for rent back in January. A Channel Seven star has given a wild theory about Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness' split just days after the Australian couple announced their marriage was over Cooper Lawrence (right), a US broadcaster, appeared on the breakfast program to discuss the pair's separation and what went wrong She also referred to when they downsized from their $54.2million triplex apartment in New York City to a smaller place in Chelsea. 'For a while, in the Broadway scene, there was a rumour that there might be something going on in that marriage that people were like, "Hmm, this is kind of odd."' Cooper continued. 'As soon as they sold their three floor apartment - their giant apartment that the kids grew up in - and they downsized... and then shipped a bunch of furniture home to Sydney, it was like, "Hmm, what's really going on here?"' She believes the pair could have waited until their son Oscar and daughter Ava were old enough to avoid a messy custody battle Cooper added to the theory and believed that Hugh and Deborra-Lee had already begun dividing up their property portfolio before separating Hugh and Deborra-Lee announced their shocking split after 27 years of marriage over the weekend. On Friday, they issued a joint statement confirming their marriage was over. 'We have been blessed to share almost 3 decades together as husband and wife in a wonderful, loving marriage,' they said in a statement obtained by PEOPLE. Jackman and Furness, who is 13 years older, marked their 27th anniversary in April this year 'Our journey now is shifting and we have decided to separate to pursue our individual growth,' the couple explained as their reason for ending their marriage. 'Our family has been and always will be our highest priority,' the statement continued. 'We undertake this next chapter with gratitude, love, and kindness.' They also added, 'We greatly appreciate your understanding in respecting our privacy as our family navigates this transition in all of our lives.' The Australian couple share two adult children together son Oscar, 23, and daughter Ava, 18. The couple, pictured in 1997 in Australia, announced their separation on Friday Jackman briefly spoke with paparazzi on the street on Saturday and admitted he and his soon-to-be ex-wife are struggling with their split. As he walked along a street, he divulged that 'it's a difficult time' but declined to discuss the breakup further. Last April, the pair had just celebrated their anniversary and Jackman had posted a gushing tribute to his wife on Instagram. 'I love you Deb. Today is our 27th wedding anniversary. 27 years! I love you so much,' the actor wrote in his caption. 'Together we have created a beautiful family. And life. Your laughter, your spirit, generosity, humor, cheekiness, courage, and loyalty is an incredible gift to me. I love you with all my heart,' he shared in the heartfelt post. DLANGENI A raging wildfire cost the life of a 60-year-old woman of Dlozini in the Hhohho Region on Saturday morning. Thoko Valencia Zulu died about 200 metres from her home after she could not escape from the fire she was trying to put out. In an interview with her husband, Mandla Gama, he said the manner they discovered his wifes body showed that she failed to escape the fire which had engulfed her from all directions. Gama said by the look of things, his wife was tired as she had begun the previous day attending to the threatening wildfire and also the fact that she had inhaled the smoke yet the area she had to walk in was steep. He said the deceased asked him that they go attend to the fire, which was coming towards their home. Approaching Gama said it was around 10am when they decided, together with four other family members, to stop the fast approaching fire, which was about a kilometre away from their homestead, using tree branches. According to Gama, the wildfire started on Friday from the mountain close by their homestead and they attended to it. He said they tried calling the Eswatini National Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services (ENFRES) personnel but were told there was no transport. He said on Saturday morning, following the strong winds, the fire started all over again, and his wife asked that they attended to it once again. We failed to control the fire and were already tired when I told my wife to rush back home using a short route as the fire was fast approaching, said Gama. He said he headed back home at around 4pm, but when he arrived, his wife was not there. Gama said the children mentioned that Zulu had hinted that she would go to Jerusalem, which was another area nearby, where some of the extended family members lived. Gama said they waited with the hope that she would return. However, as the day passed, they started getting worried and called the family members at Jerusalem, who also reported that she had not arrived there. We tried looking for her mobile phone, which we discovered she had left behind. He said they also made calls to other family members where she usually visited and they also said she had not set foot. Gama stated that one of his sons and three others decided to go and look for her following the fire trails at around 6pm. In an interview with Mduduzi, who is the deceaseds son, who led the search party, he said they searched for close to an hour when they eventually stumbled on their mothers lifeless body. Mduduzi said the body was burnt, including the clothing she was wearing, save for a hat which she was holding with one of her hands. I called my father and requested that they bring a blanket with them. Mduduzi said they arrived and then they called the police and other close family members, to inform them about the tragedy. The elderly man (Gama) said the family was devastated and had no funds for the burial as he was unemployed. Members of the public who may want to reach out and assist the family to bury their loved one in dignity can call Muzi Gama on 7643 5895, Mduduzi on 7636 6058 or Sibonginkhosi Gama on 7621 1355. ...29 fires reported in 1 day MBABANE - The Eswatini National Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services (ENFRES) attended 29 reported fire cases in one day. This is according to the Public Relations Officer, Mandla Dlamini. Dlamini stated that the cases were reported from Saturday until yesterday, at around 5pm. However, he said there were no deaths recorded in their reports and they were yet to investigate the death of the elderly woman. He acknowledged that they had a challenge with transport as there were a number of cases being attended to. Some of the original stars of the wildly popular teen drama series Beverly Hills, 90210, took a walk down memory lane when they reunited for 90s Con In Tampa, Florida over this weekend. Shannen Doherty, Tori Spelling, Jason Priestly, Jennie Garth, Ian Ziering, Brian Austin Green and Gabrielle Carteris were all on hand, rehashing about their past experiences together on the hit show, which always goes over well with fans. But it would be the shift to more present times that produced arguably the most heartwarming moment of the event, that came in the form of a standing ovation. 'Thank you so much,' an emotional Doherty, who has stage four breast cancer, told the crowd as tears flowed down her face. 'You guys know how much I love crying constantly,' she joked, 'And I do, it seems. So, thank you,' according to People. The audience rose to their feet for the ovation while the actress, who played Brenda Walsh on Beverly Hills, 90210 (1990-1994) and in the reboot BH90210 (2019), discussed her 'fight for my life every day' since receiving her breast cancer diagnosis in 2015. Looking back: Shannen Doherty, 52, reunited with her old Beverly Hills, 90210 cast mates at 90s Con in Tampa, Florida over the weekend, which comes three months after she revealed her breast cancer has spread and was now considered stage four The gang: Along with Doherty, the 90s Con reunion also included Tori Spelling, Jason Priestly, Jennie Garth, Ian Ziering, Brian Austin Green and Gabrielle Carteris; only the late Luke Perry, who died in March 2019 at the age of 52, was missing from the reunion of main cast members The panel discussed the hit series and took questions from fans during 90s Con, which was hosted by People Senior Editor Breanne L. Heldman. At one point, while Doherty was discussing the initial impact Beverly Hills, 90210 had on her life, the actress recalled how she 'paid off some of my dad's hospital bills' as her first big splurge from 90210 earnings. Ultimately, John Doherty Jr. died in 2010 at age 66 after a series of health issues, which included suffering a stroke. While mourning his loss the actress called her dad the 'greatest man in the world; in a statement issued through her publicist, which was obtained by CBS News. 'I love him with every inch of my being and cannot imagine life without him.' The 90s Con reunion comes three months after Doherty went public and announced that the cancer had spread to her brain in an Instagram post containing a video of undergoing radiation therapy. With the fear of the unknown more than apparent on her face, Doherty begins to shed tears, as the camera focuses in on her face while laying back during radiation therapy. First diagnosed with breast cancer, which included the presence of multiple tumors in 2015, the Charmed alum had a single mastectomy in May 2016. That was followed by the chemotherapy treatments and radiotherapy, because the cancer was more advanced than previously thought. By 2017, Doherty announced that her cancer was in remission. Open book: In June, Doherty shared how scared she was when she underwent radiation therapy Health scare: The actress shared that her breast cancer had spread and was now stage four Scary: In a heartbreaking moment, Doherty can be seen shedding tears during the procedure Brave and courageous: Doherty also revealed in June that she had surgery in January to remove a tumor in her head Reboot: Doherty was among the original Beverly Hills, 90210 cast members to star in the reboot BH90210 for one season in 2019 But in February 2020, she revealed the cancer had returned the previous year, and that she was now in stage four. 'On January 5th, my CT scan showed Mets in my brain,' Doherty captioned the clip from June. 'Yesterday's video was showing the process of getting fitted for the mask, which you wear during radiation to your brain. January 12, the first round of radiation took place.' She added, 'My fear is obvious. I am extremely claustrophobic and there was a lot going on in my life,' and then revealed how she's been able to take solace in the great doctors and techs at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. Doherty went on to have a tumor removed from her head after the CT scan determined that the cancer cells spread from their original site to the brain. 'I have a fight for my life, that I deal with every day,' Doherty said, before clarifying, 'I think I am really great.' Mourning hair loss: Doherty posted photos of herself bald, following chemotherapy treatments after her first diagnosis of breast cancer Another major life change: The Memphis, Tennessee native has also had to cope with the split from husband, photographer Kurt Iswarienko, in April after 11 years of marriage In another major life change, the Memphis, Tennessee native has also had to cope with the split from husband, photographer Kurt Iswarienko, in April after 11 years of marriage. He had been by her side since before her initial cancer diagnosis, and many times could be seen in images posted on her social media platforms when she gave updates on her health. She has also had the support of her her close pal Chris Cortazzo, who is seen in a number of her Instagram posts regarding her health updates. Considered one of the definitive television programs of the 90s, Doherty starred in the first four seasons of Beverly Hills, 90210 (1990-1994). The series continued on without her for another six seasons until 2000. She was also among the original cast to return for the reboot BH90210, which ultimately lasted one season with six episodes. Demi Lovato admitted on The Howard Stern show that she penned her 2015 hit 'Cool For The Summer' after a fling with a 'famous woman'. And now fans believe they have guessed the identity of the star, with many thinking it is Orange Is The New Black star, Ruby Rose. Demi, who recently switched back to she/her pronouns, refused to confirm the identity of the woman on the show, but multiple Lovato fans guessed the Australian star. 'Everybody knows this song is about Ruby Rose,' one fan wrote insistently under an article about the confession. 'It's Ruby Rose, lovatics wbk forever,' another added. Demi Lovato fans think they have guessed the 'famous woman' she had a fling with before penning 2015 hit 'Cool For The Summer' was Australian actress, Ruby Rose. Pictured 'Is it 2015 all over again? We already know it's Ruby Rose,' a fourth wrote. 'Timeline would put it as most likely Ruby Rose,' a fifth wrote. Demi made the confession on Howard Stern last week, confirming speculation the song was about a woman, with the sexualised lyrics in the chorus, 'Got a taste for the cherry, I just need to take a bite.' The star said she released it before coming out as bisexual, with her fearing the reaction of her Christian family. 'I released it before I came out as bisexual at the time,' Demi said. 'I just grew-up in a Christian home and was traumatised in that area.' Fans were insistent it was Ruby Rose over social media Demi appeared on The Howard Stern Show last week, with her revealing the hit was about a fling with a 'famous woman', with many of her fans saying it was about Ruby Rose. Pictured 'I didn't want to come out. But when I came out my [step]dad was like ''yeah, you have a song called Cool for the Summer'' like...[It's fine],' she added. Demi said she told her parents of her bisexuality while on a plane going to show, with both of them reacting well. 'I was like I have to tell you something and they were like ''what is it?'' and I was like ''I like girls too,''' she said. Demi said her mother, whose reaction she was concerned about, didn't care either saying she just wanted her daughter to 'be happy no-matter what'. Demi refused to name who the song was about, calling it 'inappropriate'. She's been known to have a close friendship with Ruby over the years. Particularly around 2013 'I had built it up in my head [but no-one cared],' Demi added. Demi confirmed she didn't go to the woman she penned the song about and added she didn't think the mystery woman knows it's about her. 'I feel like it would be inappropriate,' she said. 'I missed the moment, I should have said it back then,' she added. Demi and Ruby are known to be close friends and have often been at the centre of relationship rumours. Back in 2013, it was rumoured the pair were romantically involved while Demi was on a break from dating Wilmer Valderrama. Ruby even tweeted at the time: 'I'm like the one person Demi has slept with that didn't sell naked photos of her.' Demi has always denied dating Ruby Rose, but the pair are known to be close friends. In 2015, Demi clarified to Complex: 'I did not have a relationship with Ruby Rose.' Pictured But two years later, in 2015, Demi clarified to Complex: 'I did not have a relationship with Ruby Rose.' She added: 'I don't feel like any of my past or future - when it comes to relationships that may have happened or not have happened - are of any concern to anybody... 'Rumours are rumours, and people are going to spread them. You can believe what you want, but no, I was not in a relationship with her.' Demi previously told InStyle that she was single and open to dating men or women. She told the magazine: 'I'm very fluid, and I think love is love. You can find it in any gender. I like the freedom of being able to flirt with whoever I want.' Mark Ronson and Grace Gummer were spotted while taking their baby girl out for a walk in Manhattan's SoHo neighborhood on Sunday afternoon. The 48-year-old producer and the 37-year-old actress affectionately held hands and flashed smiles as they gave their infant daughter a bit of fresh air. The musician, whose former spouse recently welcomed a child of her own, opted for a beige button-up shirt and matching pants while spending time with his wife. Ronson completed his look with a pair of Adidas sneakers and kept his baby daughter, whose name has not been publicly revealed as of yet, in a chest carrier. Gummer opted for a graphic-printed blue t-shirt and a pair of dark pants as she stepped out. Proud parents: Mark Ronson and Grace Gummer were spotted while taking their baby girl out for a walk in Manhattan's SoHo neighborhood on Sunday afternoon The daughter of Meryl Streep also donned a pair of Adidas Sambas and accessorized with several pieces of jewelry. Her vibrant red hair fell onto her shoulders and paired well with the dominant tone of her outfit. Ronson and Gummer began their relationship in 2020, and they became engaged the following May. The producer was previously married to Josephine de La Baume from 2011 until 2018, and he was also formerly engaged to Rashida Jones. The actress previously tied the knot with Tay Strathairn in 2019, although they filed for divorce just over a month after their wedding ceremony. Ronson and Gummer eventually moved on with each other, and they tied the knot in August of 2021. The producer gushed about his marriage in a post that was shared on his Instagram account last year, and he wrote a heartfelt message to commemorate his first wedding anniversary. He wrote that 'when people used to tell me their spouse was their best friend, I thought they were spouting hallmark nonsense or that they were some freak anomaly of love.' Close couple: The 48-year-old producer and the 37-year-old actress affectionately held hands and flashed smiles as they gave their infant daughter a bit of fresh air Love story: Ronson and Gummer began their relationship in 2020, and they became engaged the following May Making it known: Gummer publicly revealed her pregnancy during W Magazine's 50th anniversary party, which took place in October of last year He concluded by writing that he 'just married the most incredible human being around.' Gummer publicly revealed her pregnancy during W Magazine's 50th anniversary party, which took place in October of last year. The producer's sister, Annabelle Dexter-Jones, confirmed to People that the actress had given birth to a baby girl this past March. Ronson's sibling added that the happy couple's child was completely 'stunning.' On Sunday, The Kardashians producer-star Kim Kardashian unveiled the latest masterpiece - a painting of a beach at sunset - by her daughter North West. Things didn't go so well the last time the 42-year-old SKIMS CEO publicly shared artwork created by the precocious 10-year-old, who rocked a T-shirt of herself at Nobu Malibu last Friday. Back in 2021, Kim proudly posted then seven-year-old North's Bob Ross-style landscape oil painting of a mountain range, river, grassy land, and trees. However, some members of Kardashian's 484.8M social media following scoffed at the idea, quickly accusing West of painting by numbers or not being 'the actual artist.' 'My daughter and her best friend have been taking a serious oil painting class where their talents and creativity are being encouraged and nurtured,' the Calabasas socialite defended at the time. 'North's new painting': On Sunday, The Kardashians producer-star Kim Kardashian unveiled the latest masterpiece - a painting of a beach at sunset - by her daughter North West Growing up in the spotlight: Things didn't go so well the last time the 42-year-old SKIMS CEO (R) publicly shared artwork created by the precocious 10-year-old (M), who rocked a T-shirt of herself at Nobu Malibu last Friday 'How dare you see children doing awesome things and then try to accuse them of NOT being awesome!? Please stop embarrassing yourselves with the negativity and allow every child to be GREAT! NORTH WEST PAINTED THAT PERIOTDDDDDABCDEFGZFDT!' Kim's CBO of KKW Brands - Tracy Romulus - also publicly defended the avid TikToker, who learned to paint in the same class as her daughter Ryan. 'They spend weeks at a time on a single painting and are incredibly proud of themselves once they complete a project,' Romulus explained. 'They are following a curriculum but the works are original, starting from a blank canvas and each child's interpretation. Please stop with the negativity and commenting at me with your doubts on a child's ability. It's people like you who keep [our] children from dreaming big or reaching their fullest potential.' Even TikToker Camryn Frederickson - the daughter of North and Ryan's art teacher Celeste Astor Frederickson - came forward at the time to reveal she learned to paint the same piece from her mother at age seven back in 2006. Celeste is the owner of For Art's Sake studio in Westlake Village where students are frequently instructed to paint the same piece. West is the eldest child of Kardashian and her third husband - canceled rapper-designer Kanye 'Ye' West - whom she divorced in 2021 after six years of marriage. The Atlanta-born 46-year-old's mini-me famously made her onstage rap debut (a 'remix' of ZaZa's 2019 track What I Do?) during his Yeezy FW/20 presentation at Paris Fashion Week. 'My little artist': Back in 2021, Kim proudly posted then seven-year-old North's Bob Ross-style landscape oil painting of a mountain range, river, grassy land, and trees 'Put a video of her drawing that hun!' However, some members of Kardashian's 484.8M social media following scoffed at the idea, quickly accusing West of painting by numbers or not being 'the actual artist' The Calabasas socialite defended at the time: 'My daughter and her best friend have been taking a serious oil painting class where their talents and creativity are being encouraged and nurtured...Please stop embarrassing yourselves with the negativity and allow every child to be GREAT! NORTH WEST PAINTED THAT PERIOD' 'They spend weeks at a time on a single painting': Kim's CBO of KKW Brands - Tracy Romulus - also publicly defended the avid TikToker, who learned to paint in the same class as her daughter Ryan Legit! Even TikToker Camryn Frederickson - the daughter of North and Ryan's art teacher Celeste Astor Frederickson - came forward at the time to reveal she learned to paint the same piece from her mother at age seven back in 2006 Ye and the half-Armenian beauty are also parents of seven-year-old son Saint, five-year-old daughter Chicago, and four-year-old son Psalm. Last November, the couple formerly known as 'Kimye' settled their divorce and 80/20 custody arrangement, which entails him paying her $200K/month in child support. Little North makes her big-screen acting debut as Junior Patroller pomeranian Mini alongside Kim's poodle Delores in Cal Brunker's animated sequel PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie, which hits US theaters September 29 and UK theaters October 13. The ensemble voice cast includes Mckenna Grace, Taraji P. Henson, Marsai Martin, Christian Convery, Chris Rock, James Marsden, Kristen Bell, Lil Rel Howery, and Serena Williams. Kardashian will also portray Siobhan Corbyn (a role written 'specifically written with her in mind') in the 12th season of American Horror Story: Delicate, which premieres this Wednesday on FX. Showrunner Halley Feiffer penned every episode of the next installment of Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk's long-running horror anthology series. Season 12 is loosely based on Danielle Valentine's novel Delicate Condition - heavily inspired by Rosemary's Baby - which hit shelves on August 1. It will also feature Emma Roberts, Cara Delevingne, Billie Lourd, Denis O'Hare, Leslie Grossman, Matt Czuchry, Michaela Jae Rodriguez, and Zachary Quinto. The aspiring attorney will also executive produce and star in the 10-episode fourth season of The Kardashians, which premieres September 28 on Hulu. On May 7, the Keeping Up with the Kardashians spin-off triumphantly won the best docu-reality series trophy at the 2023 MTV Movie & TV Awards. 2020 family portrait: West is the eldest child of Kardashian and her third husband - canceled rapper-designer Kanye 'Ye' West (R) - whom she divorced in 2021 after six years of marriage April 12 family portrait: The Atlanta-born 46-year-old and the half-Armenian beauty are also parents of seven-year-old son Saint, five-year-old daughter Chicago, and four-year-old son Psalm Cute! Little North makes her big-screen acting debut as Junior Patroller pomeranian Mini alongside Kim's poodle Delores in Cal Brunker's animated sequel PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie, which hits US theaters September 29 and UK theaters October 13 New mom Stassi Schroeder dropped in on Instagram on Sunday to share a new post with her 3.2 million followers. The 35-year-old former Vanderpump Rules personality uploaded snapshots featuring her newborn son Messer and 2-year-old daughter Hartford. Stassi who gave birth earlier this month playfully captioned the photos, 'Three of us are wearing diapers,' as she referred to the first days after childbirth when mothers wear adult diapers. The reality television star looked beautiful in a baggy, tan-colored shirt jacket as she cradled her baby while sitting in a booth. She geotagged West Hollywood restaurant The Belmont and the post has so far racked up over 275,000 likes. Latest: New mom Stassi Schroeder dropped in on Instagram on Sunday to share a new post with her 3.2 million followers Mother-of-two: The 35-year-old former Vanderpump Rules personality uploaded snapshots featuring her newborn son Messer and 2-year-old daughter Hartford The Good, the Bad, the Baby podcast co-host wore her light brown hair down, styled in a center part. She appeared blissfully content in the images as she tended to her son and gazed at her daughter. The two-time New York Times bestselling author was pretty in a face of soft, natural-looking makeup. She donned a watch on her left wrist, wore a delicate necklace, and rings on one of her dark-manicured hands. Hartford looked adorable in a yellow dress with a ruffled tulle skirt and a cozy brown sweater. The youngster looked like her mom's mini-me as she wore flesh-colored ballet flats with a flower brooch. Stassi's husband Beau Clark, was also in the photos, dressed in a Los Angeles Rams T-shirt and hat. He looked on while the couple's daughter kept busy with toys and climbing around the booth. Sense of humor: Stassi, who gave birth earlier this month, playfully captioned the photos, 'Three of us are wearing diapers' Closer look: Schroeder shared a look at the table, which featured a bottle and a beverage Schroeder, who revealed she was pregnant back in March, announced their son's arrival via Instagram on Saturday, September 9. 'MESSER RHYS CLARK, born at 12:04 am on September 7th, 7 lbs 14 oz, 19.5 inches,' she wrote. 'We love him so much already, send prayers Hartford doesn't terrorize him.' She included photos from the delivery room, one of which showed her cradling the newborn in bed. Beau was nearby, flashing a megawatt smile. The star explained the meaning of her son's names, writing online, 'Messer Rhys Clark. "Messer" is an old (like during the renaissance type of old) Italian form of address which would be the equivalent of something like "signore," "sir," or "mister."' Nadiya Bychkova brushed aside her Strictly Come Dancing snub as she joined glamorous Tasha Ghouri at Atelier Zuhra's London Fashion Week showcase. The professional dancer, 34, wore a plunging mini dress with a ruffled neckline and gold sequinned skirt for the event at Somerset House. It comes amid reports that Ukrainian beauty Nadiya was left 'seething' after not being paired with a celeb partner for the new series of the show. But she appeared to put recent drama behind her as she slipped into a pair of strappy heels and flashed a smile while attending the runway show. Nadiya topped off her look by pulled her blonde hair back into a sleek bun and accessorised with a glitzy clutch bag. Glitzy: Nadiya Bychkova, 34, (L) brushed aside her Strictly Come Dancing snub as she joined glamorous Tasha Ghouri at Atelier Zuhra's London Fashion Week showcase Meanwhile, Tasha, 25, who was dressed by Atelier Zuhra, opted for an off-the-shoulder leather-look gown that nipped in at her waist and fell into a small train. The former Love Island star styled her hair into a chic updo and elevated her height with a pair of silver heels. Joining her at the event was Jess Hunt, who looked incredible in a metallic cropped top and matching maxi skirt. Elsewhere, Georgia Harrison wore a fitted crop top with a pair of loose fitting trousers and trainers. Nadiya joined Strictly Come Dancing back in 2017 and has had a celebrity partner every year since. And fans were left furious at the BBC's decision to not give the pro one of their 15 celebrities to dance with. Bosses have hit back saying that there are many factors which determine whether a dancer is chosen to be given a celebrity partner or not, including height and how many years they have been on Strictly. Corporation sources say that when this year's stars and professionals met, there was no chemistry between Ms Bychkova and the male contestants. Glowing: The Strictly star wore a plunging mini dress with a ruffled neckline and gold sequinned skirt for the event at Somerset House Drama: It comes amid reports that Ukrainian beauty Nadiya was left 'seething' after not being paired with a celeb partner for the new series of the show Front Row: Meanwhile, Tasha, 25, opted for an off-the-shoulder leather-look gown that nipped in at her waist and fell into a small train Sleek: The former Love Island star styled her hair into a chic updo Chic: Joining her at the event was Jess Hunt, who looked incredible in a metallic cropped top and matching maxi skirt Stylish: Georgia Harrison wore a fitted crop top with a pair of loose fitting trousers Dazzling: Vanessa Bauer looked sensational in a metallic cut-out gown Sophisticated: Lady Victoria Hervey put on a chic display in a plunging white blazer with matching flared trousers Royalty: She was joined at the show by Princess Katarina of Yugoslavia All in the details: The socialite completed her look with some gold bangles Perfect: Actress Amber Doig-Thorne wore a ruffled mini dress Edgy: Samira Mighty opted for a plunging corset top and leather-look trousers Amazing: Sarah-Jane Crawford wore a satin corset top Fun night: Sarah-Jane was joined by Joelah Noble for a photo Style: DJ Yuki stunned in a metallic top and leather mini skirt Catwalk: Fashion model Claudia Lavender opened the show in a bright pink sequin gown before changing into an incredible sage number Show: Designer for Atelier Zuhra, Rayan Al Sulaimani, presented her collection One told the Mail: 'Nadiya was very surprised when she learned she would merely be part of he wider dance troupe. She felt like she had done well since she joined the show, so it was a shock.' They added: 'She wanted answers so she held several meetings with the bosses so she could get some answers. She is accepting it now.' In addition The Sun claims that the reason she was snubbed is because the only male tall enough to be partnered with her was EastEnders star Bobby Brazier, 20, - and there was an 'uncomfortable' 14-year age gap between the pair. Silverchair bandmates Ben Gillies and Chris Joannou opened up on Monday about their mental health struggle while recording their fourth studio album in 2001. Drummer Ben Gillies, 43, revealed in a trailer for the ABC's Australian Story that he began self-medicating with drugs while recording their Diorama album. 'When we started to record it, I was having mental health problems. The pressure of another Silverchair record coming out just pushed me over the edge,' he began. 'I was smoking a lot of pot and I felt like the drug had a hold of me and I couldn't stop it. Around that time I was offered an ecstasy pill and I had an acute psychotic break.' Gillies then revealed he did not seek help as he was scared he would be labelled 'crazy'. Silverchair bandmates Ben Gillies (right) and Chris Joannou (left) opened up on Monday about their mental health struggles while recording their fourth studio album in 2001 Bassist Chris Joannou, 43, added he was unaware of what Gillies was going through at the time as he himself was struggling with anxiety. Gillies and Joannou will tell their story across two episodes of Australian Story, airing on the ABC at 8pm on Monday, September 18 and concluding on September 25. Chris also revealed the difficulty they had working with frontman Daniel Johns, 43, who bluntly told his bandmates in 1999 that he would be writing most of Silverchair's songs without their participation. Drummer Ben Gillies, 43, revealed in a trailer for the ABC's Australian Story that he began self-medicating with drugs while recording their Diorama album. Pictured: Ben and Chris with Silverchair frontman Daniel Johns 'Ben probably struggled with it the most. He might have felt that Johns didn't trust his musical judgement and that creative relationship they had was pretty much gone,' he said. The bandmates have since found a cathartic outlet by penning tell-all memoir Love & Pain, about their time in the iconic rock band - without the participation of Johns. Leaving out any mention of Daniel, early promos of the book Love & Pain have been released on social media with teasers revealing the story will be told solely from the perspective of Gillies and Joannou. 'When we started to record it, I was having mental health problems. The pressure of another Silverchair record coming out just pushed me over the edge,' Gillies began Meanwhile, Johns ripped into the pair during an appearance on The Project in September 2022, where he labelled his estranged friends as 'bitter, jealous, angry', Neither Gillies nor Joannou responded at the time; however, it seems the pair are set to have their say when their tome 'Love & Pain' hits shelves on Wednesday, September 27. 'Love & Pain is the story of two teenagers who grew up in Silverchair,' reads a blurb posted to Gillies' Instagram. The pending memoir is sure to reignite what has been a bitter falling-out among the former bandmates who as 15-year-olds took the world by storm with their debut album Frogstomp. The bandmates have since found a cathartic outlet by penning tell-all memoir Love & Pain, about their time in the iconic rock band - without the participation of Johns Arabella Chi appeared to be enjoying the last vestiges of a memorable summer as she shared her latest social media posts on Sunday afternoon. The former Love Island contestant has been an unlikely passenger aboard Leonardo DiCaprio's luxury yacht during his extended tour of the Mediterranean over recent weeks. And Arabella - whose connection to the Hollywood star comes via her current boyfriend, nightclub impresario Richie Akiva - clearly wasn't ready to hang up her bikini as she took to Instagram with a handful of new photos. The 32-year old model showed off her slender physique in two separate sets from online retailers PrettyLittleThing and Nova Fashion, in images taken during her recent overseas jaunt. Arabella, who has since returned to London, is pictured modelling a black bikini with a distinctive tie-string detail, before showcasing a vibrant green swimsuit with cut-out panels. Don't mind me: Arabella Chi appeared to be enjoying the last vestiges of a memorable summer as she shared her latest social media posts on Sunday afternoon Looking good: Arabella clearly wasn't ready to hang up her bikini as she took to Instagram with a handful of new photos There she is: Arabella is an engaging sight in a black bikini as she strikes a pose during a recent overseas holiday This summer, the model had been soaking up the sun in Ibiza with boyfriend Richie and his extended group of friends, among them Oscar-winner DiCaprio. The couple were seen sharing a passionate kiss as they relaxed on board a yacht in the Mediterranean sea last month. Arabella and Richie, who has a rich history of rubbing shoulders with Hollywood's finest, looked smitten as they shared a smooch while relaxing in the sunshine. The former Love Island contestant was also reportedly seen rubbing shoulders with Spider-Man actor Tobey Maguire - one of DiCaprio's closest friends. A source previously confirmed that Arabella and Richie were enjoying their summer romance together. 'She lives in Ibiza now so when Leo and his mates came to town she was invited on board their yacht,' they told The Sun. 'It's a world away from the Love Island villa but Arabella is totally at ease with anyone and everyone. 'She's been treated like a queen on the yacht with Leo and his pals and is clearly having the time of her life.' Tasteful: The model also showcases a vibrant green swimsuit with cut-out panels on each side Going steady: Former Love Island contestant Arabella is currently dating nightclub impresario Richie Akiva (pictured) It's not known how long Arabella has been seeing New York native Richie or where they first met. Richie has been a regular on the New York club scene since his teen years and opened the legendary 10ak nightclub in 2007. He is the CEO of the Butter Group which owns other popular venues in the city including Up & Down and Butter. Russell Brand claimed his 'bosses enabled him to be a nutter' at the height of his success 'as long as they made money' in a resurfaced interview with Lorraine Kelly. During Monday's episode of Lorraine, the host, 63, recounted her 'many interviews' with the disgraced comedian, 48, and shared a snippet from his 2017 appearance. Russell has been accused of rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse by four women during the peak of his fame, following a joint investigation by The Sunday Times, The Times and Channel 4 Dispatches. The explosive allegations are said to have taken place between 2006 and 2013, while Brand was a presenter for BBC Radio 2 and Channel 4. He has denied the claims. Lorraine interviewed the journalist behind The Times' expose before showing the clip, in which Russell claims he was 'enabled' by those making money out of him. Admission: Russell Brand, 48, claimed his 'bosses enabled him to be a nutter' at the height of his success 'as long as they made money' in a resurfaced interview with Lorraine Kelly (pictured on the show in 2017) Reflecting: During Monday's episode of Lorraine, the host, 63, recounted her 'many interviews' with the disgraced comedian, 48, and shared a snippet from his 2017 appearance (pictured last week) In 2017, the actor appeared on the show to talk about his book Recovery: Freedom From Our Addictions, with the presenter saying: 'They sort of allow you to work in a certain way. You're enabled.' He replied: 'I think the point of the book is to explain why I stopped taking drugs, stopped being obsessed with sex, with money. 'If youre in a position of some success, people will allow you to be a nutter if theyre making money out of it - drinking, drugs, it's not good to live like that.' MailOnline has contacted Brand's former employers the BBC and Channel 4 for comment. The Times and Sunday Times claim 'several women' have come forward with undisclosed allegations about Brand's behaviour during the early 2000s in wake of their joint investigation with Channel 4 which was published on Saturday. The latest allegations - which the newspaper says have not been investigated, but will now be 'rigorously checked' - follow accusations from four women, including one who claims she was sexually assaulted by Brand during a three-month relationship with him when she was 16 and still at school. The BBC is now also facing 'urgent questions' after it was claimed that Brand, 48, used his company-provided car service to pick the girl up from school. It comes as both BBC and Channel 4 have launched internal investigations into separate accusations of predatory behaviour by Brand towards staff and audience members during the time of his employment. Channel 4 has since removed all programmes linked to Brand from its website, including episodes of The Great British Bake Off and Big Brother's Big Mouth in which he was featured, The Daily Telegraph reported. Resurfaced clip: In the interview he says: 'If youre in a position of some success, people will allow you to be a nutter if theyre making money out of it' The actor appeared on the show to talk about his book Recovery: Freedom From Our Addictions, with Lorraine saying: 'They allow you to work in a certain way. You're enabled' Netflix has since been urged to remove his comedy special, titled Re:Birth, from its streaming catalogue. The maverick actor and stand-up comic has strenuously denied any wrongdoing and blamed the mainstream media for the litany of astonishing, rather baroque attacks. BBC chiefs scrambled to investigate Brand last night after the comedian was accused of rape. Their probe was announced minutes before Scotland Yard piled on the pressure by announcing that detectives would like to speak to the comedians alleged victims. Brand, a former star of the BBC and Channel 4, faces bombshell claims from women alleging sexual assaults, abuse and predatory behaviour including one who was a 16-year-old schoolgirl. The BBC did not initially commit to an inquiry but amid the growing outcry, it shifted its position last night and a spokesman said it was urgently looking into the issues. In a statement, a BBC spokesman said: 'The documentary and associated reports contained serious allegations, spanning a number of years. 'Russell Brand worked on BBC radio programmes between 2006 and 2008 and we are urgently looking into the issues raised.' The broadcaster yesterday launched an internal investigation into what was known about Brand's alleged behaviour following claims that at least one senior executive was aware of complaints against the comedian and seemingly dismissed them. Banijay UK, which produced Big Brother's EForum and Big Brother's Big Mouth in the early 2000s, revealed it had also 'launched an urgent investigation' into the 'very serious' allegations from former staff who worked alongside Brand when he hosted the programmes between 2004 and 2006. The ex-staffers have claimed that Brand got them to 'act like pimps' by getting the numbers of women in the audience and passing notes to them from the presenter. Channel 4 has also said it is conducting its own internal investigation following allegations of predatory behaviour against Brand. The comedian released a video last week refuting all the allegations against him. Pictured: Brand leaving the Troubadour Wembley Park theatre after a gig on Saturday night They said: 'We have asked the production company who produced the programmes for Channel 4 to investigate these allegations and report their findings properly and satisfactorily to us. 'Channel 4 is also conducting its own internal investigation, and we would encourage anyone who is aware of such behaviour to contact us directly.' The statement added: 'We will be writing to all our current suppliers reminding them of their responsibilities under our Code of Conduct, as we are committed to ensuring our industry has safe, inclusive and professional working environments.' The network also confirmed to The Telegraph that it has 'taken down all content featuring Russell Brand while we look into the matter'. MailOnline has approached the BBC, Channel 4 and Netflix for comment. Indie pop star Emma Sheppard and her boyfriend Liam have sold their four bedroom, three bathroom Sunshine Coast property for $1.45million. The Port Moresby born star, 29, purchased the property in 2021 for $780,000 and spent the past two years significantly renovating it with the help of her partner. The semi-rural property features gorgeous nature views and is close to a variety of amenities, including a shopping centre, schools and a medical clinic. The house features an exquisite combination of cutting-edge contemporary architecture and traditional trappings, including a wooden staircase. Emma plays bass in the indie pop band Sheppard, which is fronted by her siblings George and Amy. Indie pop star Emma Sheppard and her boyfriend Liam (pictured together) have sold their four bedroom, three bathroom Sunshine Coast property for $1.45million They are best known for their hit song Geronimo, which reached number one on the ARIA chart. The property sale comes ahead of Emma relocating to Nashville, Tennessee with her siblings to further their musical career. Meanwhile, in 2021 Emma proved herself to be quite the handywoman after transforming a shabby caravan into a pretty pink, retro chic retreat. The Port Moresby born star, 29, purchased the property in 2021 for $780,000 and spent the past two years significantly renovating it with the help of her partner The semi-rural property features gorgeous nature views and is close to a variety of amenities, including a shopping centre, schools and a medical clinic The lovebirds first purchased the 1979 Franklin caravan in May 2021 and finished renovating it in August. Emma and her siblings were born in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea and moved to Australia at a young age. They rose to fame in 2014 with the release of their debut single Geronimo, which went seven times platinum in Australia and reached number 53 on the US Billboard chart. In 2021 they released their most recent album, Kaleidoscope Eyes, which reached number two in Australia. MANZINI Corruption and rot at the Treasury Department is said to have escalated to a point whereby suppliers have to solicit assistance from influential members of society for them to be paid. Some of the suppliers, who had to resort to external intervention in order for them to be paid for services rendered, had to request members of the royal family and or Cabinet ministers as they were supposedly given a run-around by officials. One of the aggrieved parties, who contacted this publication following its report on a female civil servant who was allegedly siphoning money from government coffers by transferring large amounts into her childs bank account, said getting a payment from government through the Treasury Department was a huge challenge. Hand lotion She disclosed that some officials within the department requested a hand lotion for them to fast track her payment. The businesswoman said her refusal to do that resulted in her payment being stalled, while those who had rendered services and or supplied goods to government after her were paid. Hand lotion is a lose term for payment to fast track the payment of the owed money. The businesswoman claimed that the hand lotion sought was 10 per cent of the total amount to be paid to a particular supplier. She said this was just a ridiculous demand and her conscious could not let her engage in it as this was depleting any profits she could have made. Facilitating I didnt know that when quoting for government you have to include the 10 per cent, which is later required for facilitating the payment and when they wanted it, I told them I did not have their hand lotion, she said. The businesswoman said this concern had been made at various stages with the Ministry of Finance. She said a number of businesspeople had shared with her that the officials decided on what to demand as a hand lotion, based on the amount they were paid. The entrepreneur said the officers had to be shuffled and redeployed to other departments regularly, as there were allegedly many corrupt acts which had become a norm at the department. Rhetorically, she asked how were the entities not deserving to be paid included on the list of suppliers. She decried that many businesses had gone under due to delays in payment and or demands for bribes while on the other hand, government delayed payments. The entrepreneur said some of the officials had made demands of amounts such as E20 000 for them to facilitate the payments. This, she said, resulted in other businesspeople dying from depression as they failed to cater for their obligations, such as paying their employees and suppliers. The article you reported on is a fraction of the rot in the department. These people own assets valued more than their salaries and the question is how they are funding this, she alleged. Motivated The businesswoman wondered on what motivated the reasoning of the civil servants to demand money for delivering a service which they were remunerated for. She said there were reports that some civil servants assigned to the department had been there for over a lengthy period and if it were according to her prayers, some of the personnel would be redeployed. Such an act, she said, should be engaged on regularly as the demand for bribes affected the business community and further increased unemployment in the country. After her refusal to pay the hand lotion, the entrepreneur said she had to seek the intervention of influential people in order to get the dues, including a member of the royal family. This, she said, infuriated some of the officers as it brought attention to their acts. This publication further established that other entrepreneurs used connections with influential members of society in order to avoid paying the bribes. The businesspeople supposed that they were frustrated at instances by the 10 per cent as it escalated the money to be disbursed for absolutely nothing. They supposed that for an arrear of about E10 million, the 10 per cent became equivalent to E1 million, which was quite steep and uncalled for. They expressed hope that the investigation by the police would uncover other aspects of the corruption, which may in turn bring order to the department. Accountant It is worth noting that a matter involving an accountant, who was stationed at the Ministry of Tinkhudla Administration and Development, is currently pending at the High Court. Mbongeni Mkhwanazi, who was employed as an accountant in the ministry, and his duties included processing payments to service providers and/ or suppliers of goods of the Decentralisation Department, features in all 18 counts. The accused persons have been charged for contravening the Prevention of Corruption Act No. 3 of 2006 or alternative counts of fraud. In total, they allegedly diverted E5 105 785 from the ministry, through unlawful misrepresentation, purportedly made by the accused persons to the Treasury Department and / or government. Also, last year, it was reported that the country was losing about E91 million per month, due to corruption at government ministries and departments. ...some officials accused of adding fake beneficiaries on suppliers list MANZINI Some officials are said to be adding the names of fake beneficiaries on the list of suppliers to be paid by government. A source informed this publication that some of the corrupt individuals added the fake beneficiaries on the list of the suppliers submitted by different ministries to the Treasury Department. The sources claimed that the list was checked at all various instances within the different ministries and approved by the specimen (people authorised to sign for payments). It was gathered that once all this was done, the lists were sent to the Treasury Department wherein a corrupt officer when given a list of suppliers to deposit money into, would then insert few bogus suppliers accounts. Thereon, the source said the corrupt officer could then recoup the money once it was paid to the account inserted as a supplier. The source supposed that this could involve other parties as there needed to be authorisation at some point. It is worth noting that last year, this publication reported that Eswatini is among the most corrupt countries in the world as it ranks 122 out of 180 States and territories. This was according to a report by Transparency International. The report was published on April 8, 2022, and is an assessment of 2021. Transparency International is a global movement which works in over 100 countries to end the injustice of corruption by promoting transparency, accountability and integrity. ...minister waiting for answers from relevant department MANZINI The Ministry of Finance is yet to respond as relevant officers are dealing with the matter. The Minister of Finance, Neal Rijkenberg, who is out of the country on government business, said he had forwarded the questions to the relevant department and was awaiting responses yesterday when the article was compiled. A questionnaire sent to the Ministry of Finance Communications Officer, Setsabile Dlamini, had sought to establish what government was doing to strengthen its systems to ensure corruption was curtailed. Dlamini was also asked what government was doing to deal with the cabal involved in the corrupt acts, which included the duplication of invoices and demand for bribes to facilitate payments. She was questioned on whether there were systems ensuring that not one officer was responsible for disbursing funds and also asked what were the checks and balances of ensuring that there were no funds taken from government illegally. There are claims that officers seek 10 per cent from government suppliers and service providers in order to ensure that the suppliers are paid on time. Has this been reported to the ministry? If yes, what has been done to deal with it? If no, now that it has been brought to your attention, what will the ministry do? On average, how much is lost by government to corruption per month due to such acts? these are some of the questions asked. Viewers have branded Netflix's new number 1 film Love At First Sight the service's 'best movie ever' Starring former EastEnders actor Ben Hardy, 32, the American rom com follows a couple who meet on a flight from New York to London only to lose touch at customs, before destiny leads them back together. The film, directed by Vanessa Caswill, has despite receiving middling reviews from critics gone on to earn an impressive 81% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It also stars Haley Lu Richardson with British actress Jameela Jamil as narrator. Taking to Twitter one fan said: 'Love at First Sight was good, dare I say one of the best Netflix movies ever'. Love it! Viewers have branded Netflix's current number 1 film Love At First Sight the service's 'best movie ever' (stars Haley Lu Richardson and Ben Hardy pictured) Romantic: Starring former EastEnders actor Ben Hardy, 32, the American rom com follows a couple who meet on a flight from New York to London only to lose touch at customs, before destiny leads them back together While another wrote: 'This Love At First Sight movie on Netflix is one of the best rom coms thats come out in forever'. A third said: 'I just finished the best Rom-Com I've watched in a LONG time. "Love at First Sight" on Netflix is a joy, and at it's core has amazing heart'. And a fourth commented: 'Love at first sight on Netflix is probably one of the best romcoms that came out recently'. Another wrote: 'Just watched Love at first sight on Netflix and oh my God it was so cute!?? This is exactly what I was craving for!!! The cute first meet??Airport scene and Flight scene?? A Wedding crash? Oliver and Hadley are adorable they have my whole entire heart ahh!' Someone else commented: 'Love At First Sight is possibly the best movie Netflix has ever made. Superb cast, fantastic writing, beautiful cinematography.Think @jameelajamil should narrate all romcoms from now on! Bravo'. It comes after Peep show fans rejoiced as Netflix confirmed the show will remain on the streaming service for at least another year. The classic UK comedy show was set to be removed entirely on September 29, with fans last day to watch being September 28. One viewer noticed this had been changed and tweeted Netflix asking: 'hi @NetflixUK - the date warning badge has now been removed from Peep Show... can you confirm??' Rom com: The film, directed by Vanessa Caswill, has despite receiving middling reviews from critics gone on to earn an impressive 81% rating on Rotten Tomatoes Fans: Taking to Twitter one viewer said: 'Love at First Sight was good, dare I say one of the best Netflix movies ever' Their official Twitter account replied: 'It was decided this would have been so not Rainbow Rhythms, so Peep Show will remain on Netflix. ' Fans were thrilled with the decision, with one penning: 'great decision to reverse a terrible call to remove PS' Another wrote: 'I think you made the right decision' A third added: 'This is phenomenal, yes Netflix' The streaming service announced earlier this month that popular comedy series' Peep Show and Fresh Meat would be removed next month. Peep Show ran from 2003 to 2015 with 54 episodes across nine series and starred David Mitchell and Robert Webb as two dysfunctional flatmates. Fresh Meat, from the same creators, features Jack Whitehall and follows six students at Manchester University. It ran from 2011 until 2016. Kristen Bell warned her co-star Russell Brand not to 'mess with me' on the set of Forgetting Sarah Marshall. The actress, 43, starred as the titular Sarah Marshall in the 2008 comedy film, while Russell, 48, played her boyfriend Aldous Snow. The comedian has been accused of rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse by four women during the peak of his fame, following a joint investigation by The Sunday Times, The Times and Channel 4 Dispatches. The explosive allegations are said to have taken place between 2006 and 2013, while Russell was a presenter for BBC Radio 2 and Channel 4. He has denied the claims. During press for the film, which also stars Mila Kunis and Jason Segel, in 2008, Kirsten said: 'He didn't try to mess with me or get in my pants. He knew I would lop his n**s off.' Made her feelings clear: Kristen Bell warned her co-star Russell Brand not to 'mess with me' on the set of Forgetting Sarah Marshall Co-stars: The actress, 43, starred as the titular Sarah Marshall in the 2008 comedy film, while Russell, 48, played her boyfriend Aldous Snow In another interview, she said that she had 'intimidated' Russell from the start and threatened him not to try anything. She said: 'I made it really clear from the beginning that I would sock him in the b***s if he tried anything. So he was intimidated.' However, Kristen later admitted that she 'loved' working with Russell on the film. She acknowledged: 'I may be the only woman in the world who would shout that from the rooftops, but I did.' Speaking about Kristen after Forgetting Sarah Marshall came out, Russell said she would be 'the perfect mate' for him. He said: 'Naturally Kristen would be the perfect woman for me. And the perfect guy, that's still me.' The Times and Sunday Times claim 'several women' have come forward with undisclosed allegations about Brand's behaviour during the early 2000s in wake of their joint investigation with Channel 4 which was published on Saturday. The latest allegations - which the newspaper says have not been investigated, but will now be 'rigorously checked' - follow accusations from four women, including one who claims she was sexually assaulted by Brand during a three-month relationship with him when she was 16 and still at school. Warning: During press for the film in 2008, Kirsten said: 'He didn't try to mess with me or get in my pants. He knew I would lop his n**s off' Kept him at bay: In another interview, she said that she had 'intimidated' Russell from the start and threatened him not to try anything The BBC is now also facing 'urgent questions' after it was claimed that Brand, 48, used his company-provided car service to pick the girl up from school. It comes as both BBC and Channel 4 have launched internal investigations into separate accusations of predatory behaviour by Brand towards staff and audience members during the time of his employment. Channel 4 has since removed all programmes linked to Brand from its website, including episodes of The Great British Bake Off and Big Brother's Big Mouth in which he was featured, The Daily Telegraph reported. Netflix has since been urged to remove his comedy special, titled Re:Birth, from its streaming catalogue. The maverick actor and stand-up comic has strenuously denied any wrongdoing and blamed the mainstream media for the litany of astonishing, rather baroque attacks. BBC chiefs scrambled to investigate Brand last night after the comedian was accused of rape. Their probe was announced minutes before Scotland Yard piled on the pressure by announcing that detectives would like to speak to the comedians alleged victims. Brand, a former star of the BBC and Channel 4, faces bombshell claims from women alleging sexual assaults, abuse and predatory behaviour including one who was a 16-year-old schoolgirl. Awful: Alice (pictured) alleges that Russell Brand sexually assaulted her when she was 16 years old. She claims he would send a car to pick her up secondary school lessons, which she has since claimed was a 'BBC car' Among the complaints raised in the investigation were allegations by one woman, who alleged Brand raped her against the wall in his Los Angeles home. Another woman alleged the comedian sexually assaulted her while she worked with him in Los Angeles and that he threatened her with legal action if she told anyone. While the third claimed she was sexually assaulted by Brand who she alleges was physically and emotionally abusive towards her. The fourth woman, referred to as Alice to protect her identity, said she was 16 when he choked her during a sexual act. She alleges he took her virginity, was 'preoccupied' with her being 'innocent and pure', and often referred to her as 'The Child'. Alice described his behaviour towards her as 'grooming' as Brand would allegedly provide her with scripts on how to deceive her parents into allowing her to visit him. She also claimed he would send his 'BBC car' to her secondary school to pick her up. 'The first time I used it, he told me it was booked to take him to his radio show but he had a friend taking him instead so I should use that car,' she told The Times. She claimed the chauffeur once took her from Brand's home to her grandmother's house and that on a separate occasion the same car 'picked me up from school'. Among the allegations, which Brand denies, is the rape of a woman (pictured is an image from the trailer of Channel 4's Dispatches, set to air later tonight) Alice added: 'It was the same car...I knew that that was a BBC car.' The BBC did not initially commit to an inquiry but amid the growing outcry, it shifted its position last night and a spokesman said it was urgently looking into the issues. In a statement, a BBC spokesman said: 'The documentary and associated reports contained serious allegations, spanning a number of years. 'Russell Brand worked on BBC radio programmes between 2006 and 2008 and we are urgently looking into the issues raised.' The broadcaster yesterday launched an internal investigation into what was known about Brand's alleged behaviour following claims that at least one senior executive was aware of complaints against the comedian and seemingly dismissed them. Banijay UK, which produced Big Brother's EForum and Big Brother's Big Mouth in the early 2000s, revealed it had also 'launched an urgent investigation' into the 'very serious' allegations from former staff who worked alongside Brand when he hosted the programmes between 2004 and 2006. The ex-staffers have claimed that Brand got them to 'act like pimps' by getting the numbers of women in the audience and passing notes to them from the presenter. Channel 4 has also said it is conducting its own internal investigation following allegations of predatory behaviour against Brand. Denial: Brand has lashed out at 'aggressive' media claims as he insisted any relationships he had 'during his time of promiscuity' were 'consensual' in a 2min 45sec monologue They said: 'We have asked the production company who produced the programmes for Channel 4 to investigate these allegations and report their findings properly and satisfactorily to us. 'Channel 4 is also conducting its own internal investigation, and we would encourage anyone who is aware of such behaviour to contact us directly.' The statement added: 'We will be writing to all our current suppliers reminding them of their responsibilities under our Code of Conduct, as we are committed to ensuring our industry has safe, inclusive and professional working environments.' The network also confirmed to The Telegraph that it has 'taken down all content featuring Russell Brand while we look into the matter'. MailOnline has approached the BBC, Channel 4 and Netflix for comment. Since the Sunday Times and Channel 4 investigation, more women have come forward with allegations about how he has treated them, it has emerged. The Times and Sunday Times claim 'several women' have come forward with undisclosed allegations about Brand's behaviour during the early 2000s. Brand has lashed out at 'aggressive' media claims as he insisted any relationships he had 'during his time of promiscuity' were 'consensual' in a 2min 45sec monologue to his 11million followers on X and 6.5million subscribers on YouTube. In his corner|: His video drew backing from self-professed misogynist social media star Andrew Tate, who posted a cartoon meme of a knight preparing for battle, captioned: 'On my way to fight the crazy b***h allegations' Conspiracy: In a separate Tweet responding to Brand's video he called the allegations made against the comedian a 'Matrix attack' Having his say: Brand also appeared to win the support of tech tycoon Musk, who appeared to sympathise with him. 'Of course. They don't like competition,' he replied to the comedian's video on X Support? Kirsty Gallacher shared brother-in-law Brand's video on her Instagram story with a large red love heart, however, a few hours later and after the investigation was published in full at 4pm BST, the post vanished, suggesting she had deleted it He accused the news organisations of coordinating an attack on him, telling his followers: 'Is there another agenda at play? 'Particularly when we've seen coordinated media attacks before, like with Joe Rogan, when he dared to take a medicine that the mainstream media didn't approve of, and we saw a spate of headlines from media outlets across the world using the same language.' His video drew backing from tech billionaire Elon Musk, who owns X - formerly known as Twitter, and self-professed misogynist social media star Andrew Tate. Tate - who recently won his freedom after months of house arrest amid an investigation into sex trafficking claims against the kickboxer and his younger brother, took to X, posting a cartoon meme of a knight preparing for battle, captioned: 'On my way to fight the crazy b***h allegations.' Alongside the image, he captioned it: 'Welcome to the club Russell Brand.' Tate, who is currently facing charges of rape and human trafficking - which he has denied - in a separate Tweet responded to Brand's video calling it a 'Matrix attack'. Brand also appeared to win the support of tech tycoon Musk, who appeared to sympathise with him. 'Of course. They don't like competition,' he replied to the comedian's video on X. Later, Brand's sister-in-law Kirsty Gallacher appeared to show her support for the controversial celeb. Hidden truth: A 2013 interview with Brand's ex-wife Katy Perry has resurfaced where she hinted that she had discovered some more of Brand's indecent behaviour (pictured together in 2010) The Smooth Radio presenter, 47, who is the older sister of Brand's wife Laura, shared the comedian's two-minute video on Instagram with a large red love heart. Brand married his wife, who is currently pregnant with their third child, in 2017. Laura has not commented anything publicly or shared anything on social media since her husband made the video. She has since appeared to delete her Instagram account. A 2013 interview with Brand's ex-wife Katy Perry has resurfaced where she hinted that she had discovered some more of Brand's indecent behaviour. Speaking to the magazine shortly after their split, she said had initially taken 'a lot of responsibility' for the break-up until she 'found out the real truth'. Katy said she would keep this 'truth', which she could not 'necessarily disclose', locked away 'for a rainy day'. Comedian Daniel Sloss has also claimed that women would warn each other about Russell Brand and his behaviour was openly discussed in the industry. He told Channel 4's Dispatches documentary how there were 'many stories with varying degrees of severity' about Brand that came from a number of different people in the comedy circuit. The comedian released a video last week refuting all the allegations against him. Pictured: Brand leaving the Troubadour Wembley Park theatre after a gig on Saturday night Daniel said Brand was often spoken about in public, with many people in the comedy circuit aware of his alleged abusive and coercive behaviour. He added that female comedians even spoke of him in WhatsApp groups which they used to warn each other which comedians to avoid. He said: 'For many, many years women have been warning each other about Russell.' Last night, Brand performed at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre, in London, for his new show, Russell Brand: Bipolarisation. MailOnline understands the sold-out Tuesday performance of the show, at London's Theatre Royal Windsor venue is also still due to go ahead. Gigs in Plymouth, on Friday, and Wolverhampton, on September 28, are also still listed. On the tour's website, it said the show discusses 'rules and rules breaking', 'democracy and freedom' and adds: 'We reach conclusions from mass confusion by polling the live audience.' But hours before he was due to take to the stage, Brand was seemingly removed from the his agency websites. Following his denial of allegations against him and ahead of the Channel 4 documentary tonight, Brand's PR firm MBC PR and talent agent Tavistock Wood no longer advertise him as a client on their websites. However, it's understood MBC PR still represent him. It is not the first time Brand has been accused of inappropriate behaviour. Jordan Martin, a former girlfriend, claimed he had sexually assaulted her and 'made me brush my teeth so hard my gums bled so I would taste 'anonymous' to him'. This Morning's Holly Willoughby and Craig Doyle reacted to a rude hashtag, which began trending during Monday's show. The unexpected hashtag on X, formerly known as Twitter, emerged after Kate Lawler told a security guard to 'smell my cash!' The former Big Brother star was hosting the competition prize segment, while standing with a clear box containing 1million in cash. Holding a wedge in her hand, Kate shoved it in the security guards face and demanded: 'Smell my cash!' before accidentally dropping the money on the floor. Holly, 42, quipped: 'I bet ''smell my cash'' will be trending by the end of the show,' while viewers quickly took to social media in there droves, where they tweeted a crude hashtag version of Kate's demand. We see you! This Morning's Holly Willoughby and Craig Doyle reacted to a rude hashtag, which began trending during Monday's show Oh my! The unexpected hashtag on X, formerly known as Twitter , emerged after Kate Lawler told a security guard to 'smell my cash!' Holly quipped: 'I bet ''smell my cash'' will be trending by the end of the show' With the lewd hashtag included, one fan tweeted: 'Flipping eck, Ive got to do some work but this hashtag is killing me today, good work folks. #ThisMorning.' Another added: 'I think thats me done for the day. Its been fun. You naughty f**kers can all ... #ThisMorning,' while someone else admitted: '#ThisMorning hashtag never fails to amuse!' 'This is why i love #thismorning hashtag. I am properly howling,' confessed another fan as someone else noted: 'I love they are doing a fish cooking segment as we try and get ... trending #ThisMorning.' A while later, following an adverts break, Holly and Craig giggled as they made viewers at home aware that they'd seen the hashtag. As they began playing Spin To Win, Holly said: 'Here we go. What is the phrase today? It's not what's currently trending on Twitter! Naughty, naughty! We know what you're up to. We see you!' Craig admitted: 'Funny though! Well done Twitter,' and confessed he was open to callers using the naughty hashtag as the Spin to Win passphrase, with Holly swiftly shutting down the idea, telling him: 'Don't you dare say that!' It comes a week after This Morning was thrown into chaos as guest Miriam Margolyes, 82, discussed 'steaming her vagina' and her sex life, while she also swore twice live on the show. Presenter Holly was left red-faced and was forced to apologise to viewers after the outspoken actress mouthed an expletive before uttering the word s**t' during the phone in. Yikes: This Morning viewers quickly took to social media in there droves, where they tweeted a crude hashtag version of Kate's demand Joker: Craig admitted he was open to callers using the naughty hashtag as the Spin to Win passphrase, with Holly swiftly shutting down the idea Miriam then raised eyebrows once again as she sat on the sofa for a chat, where she proceeded to speak candidly about her sex life and maintaining her intimate areas. She said during the X-rated discussion: 'My friends say I haven't changed but I've always been as naughty and outspoken as I am now. 'What I have learnt is to be kind. Otherwise I'm sort of perfect really. I'm 82, I fart a lot, p**s a lot, but I'm still going. 'I've just come back from Austria and I went to a rocker place and I steamed my yoni [slang for female genitalia]. It did me a world of good. 'You put a big saucepan with some mint and you put it in a bed pan and spread you legs. It's peaceful and pleasant. It has awoke....' Love Island 2020 couple Callum Jones and Molly Smith have split. The duo, aged 28 and 26, met when Molly was a Casa Amor bombshell on the sixth season and are said to be determined to remain friends despite the break-up, while Callum has left their Manchester home and split custody of their dogs. Insiders told The Sun: 'It's really sad as they were a sweet couple together but it's over - and has been for a few weeks... 'They're trying to stay friends - they were together for over three years - but it's difficult. I think in the end, Molly wanted to get engaged and that didn't happen. 'Everyone was really surprised when they split as they were perfectly matched. He's now moved out of the home they shared and they've split custody of their two dogs.' Tough times: Love Island 2020 couple Callum Jones and Molly Smith have split. Couple: The duo, aged 28 and 26, met when Molly was a Casa Amor bombshell on the sixth season, are said to be determined to remain friends despite the break-up Callum is currently in Bali on holiday and last shared an image of Molly on his Instagram page during a trip to Ibiza in July. Molly shared around the same time. Molly and Callum met on the first-ever winter edition of the ITV dating show in 2020, where they left before the finale. The couple moved into a lavish four-bedroom house in Manchester that November after meeting on the show. Former scaffolder Callum previously revealed that he can see himself marrying model Molly and potentially having children together. Last year, he gave a now-poignant interview in which he hit back at people who judged them, revealing they have 'proved a few people wrong' after recently celebrating their two year anniversary. He said: 'We are perfect. We've got two dogs so we've got a proper little family going, it's lovely. There is other things we want to focus on at the minute but obviously in the future it's definitely something we both want together... 'We've just not really decided when. We're just enjoying things that we've got at the minute and then family and marriage will eventually come into it.' In love: Molly and Callum met on the first-ever winter edition of the ITV dating show in 2020, where they left before the finale Opening up: The couple moved into a lavish four-bedroom house in Manchester that November after meeting on the show Callum explained that viewers of the dating show judge islanders but only see a segment of each day: 'People can judge from an outside perspective... 'Obviously they don't see 24 hours of Love Island, they only see 60 minutes so people can obviously judge but we're still together. That was the main thing I went in there for so yeah, I'd say we've proved a few people wrong.' Reflecting on his experience, he said: 'I didn't think I was going to get a girlfriend and we were gonna live together. I was really open minded and the thing I really wanted was to find someone. 'Obviously it's not 100% when you go in there that you are going to get that but we got lucky and we are still here.' While the pair initially went from strength to strength it wasn't always smooth sailing, as their get-together caused a stir on the ITV2 show. Callum entered the show as one of the original contestants and connected with Shaughna Phillips at the beginning. The couple's relationship continued to blossom until the infamous Casa Amor came along - which saw Molly's arrival to the show. Molly and Callum hit it off upon meeting, and he decided to return to the villa with her - leaving Shaughna devastated as she was left to fly solo. Living together: The couple, aged 28 and 26, moved into a lavish four-bedroom house in Manchester that November after meeting on the show Good Morning Britain's Susanna Reid awkward quizzed co-host Richard Madeley over his 2007 interview with Russell Brand live on air on Monday. Richard, 67, appeared to make a barbed comment during the resurfaced interview when it was showed briefly during Saturday's bombshell Dispatches documentary. Russell, now 48, is currently facing allegations of sexual assaults and abusive and predatory behaviour between 2006 and 2013, when he was at the height of his fame, following the film. Allegations which he denies. And Susanna, 52, asked her co-host if he had heard any rumblings of the former Big Brother host's alleged behaviour - which has since been claimed was an 'open secret' within the industry - before the sit down. Almost two decades ago Russell had appeared alongside Richard and his wife Judy Finnigan, 75, on their Channel 4 show promote his second memoir My Booky Wooky 2. Tough: Good Morning Britain 's Susanna Reid, 52 awkward quizzed co-host Richard Madeley, 67, over his 2007 interview with Russell Brand live on air on Monday Allegations: Richard, 67, appeared to make a barbed comment during the resurfaced interview when it was showed briefly during Saturday's bombshell Dispatches documentary (Pictured) With Judy introducing him and the book by saying: 'It's a searingly honest account of addiction and self-harm and it's written by Russell Brand - the lovely, innocent Russell Brand.' While Richard quipped: 'Butter wouldn't melt.' Susanna asked if he had in fact made the jibe knowingly, only for Richard to say he had been totally unaware of any criminal accusations. Stating that all he knew of Russell's reputation was of that of a 'womaniser'. Since Brand was the subject of an investigation by The Times, The Sunday Times and Channel 4's Dispatches, more women have come forward with allegations about how he has treated them, it has emerged. The Times and Sunday Times claim 'several women' have come forward with undisclosed allegations about Brand's behaviour during the early 2000s in wake of their joint investigation with Channel 4 which was published on Saturday. The latest allegations - which the newspaper says have not been investigated, but will now be 'rigorously checked' - follow accusations from four women, including one who claims she was sexually assaulted by Brand during a three-month relationship with him when she was 16 and still at school. The BBC is now also facing 'urgent questions' after it was claimed that Brand used his company-provided car service to pick the girl up from school. Interview: Susanna asked if he had in fact made the jibe knowingly, only for Richard to say he had been totally unaware of any criminal accusations Candid: He stated that all he knew of Russell's reputation was of that of a 'womaniser' It comes as both BBC and Channel 4 have launched internal investigations into separate accusations of predatory behaviour by Brand towards staff and audience members during the time of his employment. Channel 4 has since removed all programmes linked to Brand from its website, including episodes of The Great British Bake Off and Big Brother's Big Mouth in which he was featured, The Daily Telegraph reported. Netflix has since been urged to remove his comedy special, titled Re:Birth, from its streaming catalogue. The maverick actor and stand-up comic has strenuously denied any wrongdoing and blamed the mainstream media for the litany of astonishing rather baroque attacks. BBC chiefs scrambled to investigate Brand last night after the comedian was accused of rape. Their probe was announced minutes before Scotland Yard piled on the pressure by announcing that detectives would like to speak to the comedians alleged victims. Scary: Russell, now 48, is currently facing allegations of sexual assaults and abusive and predatory behaviour between 2006 and 2013. Pictured: Russell Brand hosting Big Brother's Little Brother in May 2006 One accuser, Alice (pictured), alleges that Russell Brand sexually assaulted her when she was 16 years old. She claims he would send a car to pick her up from secondary school, which she has since claimed was a 'BBC car' The comedian released a video last week refuting all the allegations against him. Pictured: Brand leaving the Troubabour Wembley Park theatre after a gig on Saturday night Brand, a former star of the BBC and Channel 4, faces bombshell claims from women alleging sexual assaults, abuse and predatory behaviour including one who was a 16-year-old schoolgirl. But the claims from one businesswoman who alleged Brand raped her when she refused a threesome and another who said she was 16 when he choked her during a sexual act, prompted a firestorm yesterday. Among the complaints raised in the investigation were allegations by a woman, referred to as Alice to protect her identity, who claims she was sexually assaulted by Brand as a 16-year-old. She alleges he was 'preoccupied' with her being 'innocent and pure', and often referred to her as 'The Child'. Alice described his behaviour towards her as 'grooming' as Brand would allegedly provide her with scripts on how to deceive her parents into allowing her to visit him. She also claimed he would send his 'BBC car' to her secondary school to pick her up. 'The first time I used it, he told me it was booked to take him to his radio show but he had a friend taking him instead so I should use that car,' she told The Times. She claimed the chauffeur once took her from Brand's home to her grandmother's house and that on a separate occasion the same car 'picked me up from school'. Alice added: 'It was the same car...I knew that that was a BBC car.' The BBC did not initially commit to an inquiry but amid the growing outcry, it shifted its position last night and a spokesman said it was urgently looking into the issues. In a statement, a BBC spokesman said: 'The documentary and associated reports contained serious allegations, spanning a number of years. 'Russell Brand worked on BBC radio programmes between 2006 and 2008 and we are urgently looking into the issues raised.' The broadcaster yesterday launched an internal investigation into what was known about Brand's alleged behaviour following claims that at least one senior executive was aware of complaints against the comedian and seemingly dismissed them. Dani Laidley has hinted she may be engaged to her childhood sweetheart Donna Leckie. Speaking to Daily Mail Australia at the premiere of her Stan Original documentary, Revealed - Danielle Laidley: Two Tribes in Melbourne, on Monday, the former AFL great said the women wear matching rings, but wouldn't clarify what they mean. 'You can take our rings for whatever you wish to take them for,' the 56-year-old said coyly. 'We haven't spoke to our family, and if anything was ever going to happen we would speak to them first. Particularly our boys.' Dani previously addressed engagement rumours last year when she set tongues wagging by wearing a diamond ring. The Stan Original documentary Revealed Danielle Laidley: Two Tribes premieres September 19 only on Stan. Dani Laidley has hinted she may be engaged to her childhood sweetheart Donna Leckie. Both pictured A video, taken in Moonee Ponds, Victoria and shared to Instagram at the time, saw Dani holding her hand to her face in shock as the ring caught the light. Dani appeared to be out at a restaurant, and glanced at the ring multiple times in the clip. Adding to the mystery, the video was captioned: 'What has just happened? Oh my god.' Speaking to Daily Mail Australia at the time, Dani dismissed the speculation saying, 'We aren't getting married and we aren't engaged'. Speaking to Daily Mail Australia at the premiere of her Stan Original documentary, Revealed - Danielle Laidley: Two Tribes in Melbourne, on Monday, the former AFL great said the women wear matching rings, but wouldn't clarify what they mean 'You can take our rings for whatever you wish to take them for,' the 56-year-old said coyly 'We haven't spoke to our family, and if anything was ever going to happen we would speak to them first. Particularly our boys,' Dani added The couple, who had been childhood partners both at primary and high school, reconnected in 2017, and rekindled their romance in 2021. 'We have had the best time in lockdown, playing UNO and being silly, we have known each other our whole lives so it was just fun,' Donna gushed to Daily Mail Australia that year. Dani first stepped out with Donna, her childhood sweetheart who she sat next to in grade one, in Melbourne in November 2021. She had also paid tribute to her new partner by sporting earrings of the letter 'D' in her honour. Sarah-Jane Honeywell has admitted she is still 'constantly mum-shamed' after being sacked from CBeebies over a topless snap. The former presenter, 49, took part a now infamous PETA shoot back in 2011 where she posed topless on a giant plate of food. But the brazen move had a disastrous impact on her career, with Sarah-Jane revealing she was sacked from her job without warning. Speaking in a new interview with The Sun, the TV personality explained how she still faces backlash and even experienced 'uproar' over a recent holiday photo. Sarah-Jane said: 'I am constantly mum-shamed, Ive come to expect it. But I certainly wasnt expecting such an uproar when I shared my snaps from our recent holiday to Spain.' Outrage: Sarah-Jane Honeywell, 49, has admitted she is still 'constantly mum-shamed' after being sacked from CBeebies over a topless snap (pictured on Tikkabilla in 2002) She said: 'I had let my CBoobies out on a beach in La Manga and I posted a photo of myself topless on Instagram. 'It was just the silhouette of my body and then another taken from behind - people were outraged. My comments section was flooded with strangers concerned about my poor boys.' The presenter, who is married to Hollyoaks actor Ayden Callaghan, has two children, Indiana, five, and Phoenix, nine. It comes after Sarah-Jane revealed she was left homeless, suicidal and 100,000 in debt after posing for a nude photoshoot that ended her career in kids' TV. She told The Sun's Fabulous magazine: 'After that, all the doors were slammed in my face. I couldn't get any auditions because people didn't take me seriously and just passed me off as a children's TV weirdo. Financially it was an absolute disaster.' The presenter, who is married to Hollyoaks actor Ayden Callaghan, told how she ended up in 100,000 of debt. The TV star landed a gig on CBeebies back in 2001 and while she loved the job, she was taken aback by the strict rules presenters had to follow. Sarah-Jane, who was asked to take part in the topless shoot because she was a vegan, said stars were forbidden from saying anything crude or rude, even when off camera and with no children around. Backlash: The former presenter took part a now infamous PETA shoot back in 2011 where she posed topless on a giant plate of food Drama: Speaking in a new interview with The Sun, the TV personality explained how she still faces backlash and even experienced 'uproar' over a recent holiday photo (pictured) Comments: Sarah-Jane said: 'I am constantly mum-shamed, Ive come to expect it' (pictured in 2018) Sarah-Jane admitted she also lied about ever having taken illegal drugs when she was asked during a medical at the BBC. The star had previously dabbled with cocaine and pills but feared being honest would cost her the job. Sarah-Jane said she also struggled to get on with some of her behind the scenes colleagues and even recalled one incident where a co-worker told her she looked 'old and ugly' and that her hair was too long. While she now works on BBC Radio Lincoln presenting a Sunday afternoon show, she still has a sour taste left in her mouth over her time with CBeebies and doesn't let her sons watch the channel. Michelle Keegan returned to the set of Brassic on Monday morning. The former Coronation Street star, 36, who plays single mum Erin Croft on the show, chatted to a member of the crew while walking with a Dryrobe in her arms. Dryrobes are a garment designed to permit changing anywhere: 'Designed to let you get changed anywhere, the Dryrobe Advance protects you from the elements, keeping you warm and dry in any climate.' Her hair and make-up were picture perfect to get in front of the camera while she paired the look with a denim jacket with a shearline collar. Her appearance comes as it was reported that bosses are planning a Brassic Christmas special, which will air this year, following the airing of the fifth season which is set for release later this month. Star: Michelle Keegan returned to the set of Brassic on Monday morning Exciting: Brassic is reportedly planning a Christmas special of the hit comedy which will air this year (Michelle Keegan as Erin pictured) Transforming: The former Coronation Street star, 36, who plays single mum Erin Croft on the show, chatted to a member of the crew while walking with a Dryrobe in her arms Michelle was beaming at her co-worker as she walked into the trailer for her day back on-set - although it is unknow if she was shooting series six or a special. Original comedy Brassic follows Vinnie O'Neill (Joseph Gilgun) and his five friends, including Michelle's single mum character Erin. The group struggle to get by in the fictional town of Hawley, and often resort to petty crime for money. When Dylan's girlfriend Erin wants out to start afresh in a new town, Dylan is torn between following her or staying with the pals he thinks of as brothers. A source told the publication of the festive special: 'It feels like a long time coming but everyone is thrilled Brassic is getting a Christmas special after four years on the box. 'It's going to be a foul-mouthed, festive knees-up Brassic style - forget your fairytale, it'll be more akin to Billy Bob Thonrton's Bad Santa and The Grinch than your schmaltzy It's A Wonderful Life. 'The special episode is being filmed next month around Manchester and in Lancashire and the cast are super-excited to show what a Christmas in Hawley looks like for the gang of criminal misfits. Chic: Her hair and make-up were picture perfect to get in front of the camera while she paired the look with a denim jacket with a shearline collar Stunner: Michelle was beaming at her co-worker as she walked into the trailer for her day back on-set - although it is unknow if she was shooting series six or a special 'There will be some surprises in the mix too, including a big name one-off casting.' The BAFTA-nominated series began back in 2019, as season four of the show was released last August on Sky Max and Now TV. In February this year Michelle looked back on the busy time making series five by sharing a collection of behind-the-scenes snaps from the set as filming came to an end. The actress shared that it had been 'chaotic mayhem' working with her co-stars on the Sky drama series, sweetly adding that she felt 'so lucky' to be part of the 'special' show. Beaming alongside co-stars such as Aaron Heffernan and Lee Mack, who joined the show for the new series, for some snaps, others showed her with the production crew. Here they are! Original comedy Brassic follows Vinnie O'Neill (Joseph Gilgun) and his five friends, including Michelle's single mum character Erin Yay! The show will air its fifth season this month, with the special then coming in December, The Sun reports. That's a wrap! In February this year Michelle looked back on the busy time making series five by sharing a collection of behind-the-scenes snaps from the set as filming came to an end Big love: Taking to the caption to reflect on the filming, the brunette beauty penned: 'Wrap on Brassic season 5!!!' Love Island's Lana Jenkins even made a cameo in the post as she was a make-up artist on the show, prior to her TV debut in the South African villa. Sharing a glimpse into what goes on behind the cameras with her 6.3M Instagram followers, Michelle appeared off-duty while relaxing with cast and crew for the pictures. As the roles were even reversed in others as she snapped the set's camera operators in their natural habitat. Taking to the caption to reflect on the filming, the brunette beauty penned: 'Wrap on Brassic season 5!!! 'Can't believe how fast these past 6 months have gone, 6 months filled with chaotic mayhem, freezing cold locations and a whole lot of love & dedication. Feel so lucky to be working on such a special show. 'Can't wait for you guys to see what we've been upto. Big love as always .' Series four of the show aired last September, with the fifth instalment set to be released next month. It comes after Chrissy Teigen and John Legend renewed their vows in Lake Como Bush Hager revealed the couple has since U-turned on their decision She and her husband had originally planned to renew their vows after 10 years Jenna Bush Hager has revealed she won't be renewing her vows with her husband Henry Chase Hager anytime soon admitting that she doesn't feel the need because they 'choose each other every day'. The 41-year-old TV host explained to her co-presenter Hoda Kotb on Monday's episode of the Today with Hoda & Jenna why it's unlikely that she'll be following in the footsteps of Chrissy Teigen and John Legend, who recently reaffirmed their commitment to each other on their 10-year anniversary in a ceremony in Lake Como. Getting candid about her view on marriage, Bush Hager surprisingly shared that renewing her vows was something that she and Henry had initially planned, although they have since U-turned on the decision. 'When Henry and I got married, when we went on our honeymoon, we're like, when we hit our 10-year anniversary, we'll renew our vows,' she said. Jenna Bush Hager has revealed she and her husband Henry Chase Hager no longer plan to renew their vows The couple - who have been married for 15 years -initially had planned to renew their vows after 10 years of marriage 'We'll come back here to renew our vows. Well, we've been married 15 years. We never renewed our vows.' Probing her co-star on the subject, Kotb, 59, asked: 'What do you think about the vow renewal?' 'I think to each their own,' Bush Hager replied. 'I don't know that it's for us. Because I honestly sort of feel like we choose each other every single day in little things. 'You know, it's like, how you said, if he says something that's funny, but slightly irritating, do I choose to laugh at it or do I choose to be grumpy? And it's like, you have to make that choice every single day.' Bush Hager met her husband in 2004 while he was working on her dad's presidential campaign. She previously admitted on the Today show a few years ago that she asked him to marry her after just three months of dating - but he turned her down because she was too young. The couple, who are parents to three children, daughters Mila, 10, and Poppy, eight, and son Hal, four, eventually tied the knot in 2008 at the Bush's ranch in Crawford, Texas. Bush Hager and her husband Henry tied the knot in 2008 at the Bush's ranch in Texas TV host Bush Hager previously revealed she proposed to Henry after three months of dating Bush Hager said that she and her other half 'choose each other' every single day The couple are parents to three children; daughters Mila, 10, and Poppy, eight, and son Hal, four They celebrated their 15th anniversary on May 10, with Bush Hager posting a tribute on her Instagram that read: '15 years with HHs hand in mine. I love him. A lot.' Bush Hager previously revealed that her husband was so nervous to ask her father for her hand in marriage that he read the Bible for courage before getting his blessing. '[It was] not easy,' she said. 'He actually read the Bible. I was like, "Come see the movie," or "We're going to go do this". 'We had friends there, and he was like, "No". He called my dad. He's like, "I'd like to come speak to you". 'He's like, "I'm taking a nap. Come in a couple hours." So he had to sit and stew.' The former First Daughter noted that her other half was more than prepared when the time came to share his intentions with his future father-in-law. 'He had like a seven-point plan of why he wanted to marry me and how he was going to take care of me,' she explained. 'My dad goes, "Henry, I said yes. You don't need to go through anything else Laura, Henry's proposing," and that was that. Good thing he did it.' It comes after John Legend and Chrissy Teigen renewed their vows in Lake Como, Italy They reaffirmed their commitment to one another after 10 years of marriage Last week, Bush Hager gushed as she recalled falling head over heels in love with her husband - despite their romance blossoming in a freezing cold Washington D.C. 'I don't remember cold,' she insisted. 'I was never cold. I just remember feeling warm inside and loved.' Chrissy, 37, and John, 44, recommitted to each other on September 15 in the lap of luxury as they celebrated at the five-star Villa Passalacqua, a romantic hotel with stunning views of the Italian landscapes. The duo had married on September 14, 2013 at the Villa Pizzo, one of the most exclusive wedding destinations in Northern Italy. Shannen Doherty appeared to be in good spirits as she was spotted arriving at back LAX after attending 90s con in Tampa, Florida. The Beverly Hills 90210 alum, 52, was smiling and looking happy as she rolled her luggage through the busy terminal. She looked super comfy in a pair of black sweatpants, an army green hoodie, a brown and beige trucker hat and white sneakers. The Charmed alum recently revealed that her breast cancer had spread to her brain. She offered fans an update at 90s con on Sunday, saying: 'I have a fight for my life, that I deal with every day. I think I am really great.' Happy: Shannen Doherty was spotted arriving at LAX after attending 90s con in Tampa, Florida Shannon reunited with Tori Spelling, Gabrielle Carteris, Jennie Garth, Jason Priestly, Ian Ziering and Brian Austin Green at 90s con. The 90210 cast came together for a panel hosted by People Senior Editor Breanne L. Heldman to discuss the show and take questions from the audience. At the end of the panel Doherty received a standing ovation from the crowed, which made her tear up and get emotional. 'Thank you so much. You guys know how much I love crying constantly. And I do, it seems. So, thank you,' she said. And though she is, as she said, 'in a fight for my life,' she's still staying active and launching a new podcast. 'It's going to be called Let's Be Clear, and it's a live interactive memoir,' Doherty told the audience on Sunday. 'So you get to hear everything that I've refused to say before. I'm spilling the tea, but nicely!' She's got a good reason for staying positive and continuing to work. 'Our life doesn't end the minute we get that diagnosis,' she told Good Morning America in February 2020 when her cancer returned. 'We still have some living to do.' Comfy: The Beverly Hills 90210 alum, 52, was smiling and looking happy as she rolled her luggage through the busy terminal Panel: Shannon reunited with Tori Spelling, Gabrielle Carteris, Jennie Garth, Jason Priestly, Ian Ziering and Brian Austin Green at 90s con Fight for life: She offered fans an update at 90s con on Sunday, saying: 'I have a fight for my life, that I deal with every day. I think I am really great' Doherty, who split from her third husband, Kurt Iswarienko, in April after 11 years of marriage also cracked a joke at her own expense during the panel. Kurt had been by her side since before her initial cancer diagnosis, and was frequently in the photos she shared on social media when she gave updates on her health. 'My other profession is getting engaged, married and divorced, and I'm doing that very well,' she said with a laugh. Shannen has been through a lot in recent years. She was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. In 2018 she lost her home in the devastating Woosley fire that ripped through Malibu. * The two-day Summit of the Group of 77 (G77) and China concluded on Saturday with a call for more participation and say of the Global South in the global governance system. * Terming the group "a champion of multilateralism," Guterres called on G77 and China to "champion a system rooted in equality; champion a system ready to reverse the injustice and neglect of centuries; and champion a system that delivers for all humanity and not for the privileged." * "China has been very active in promoting a fairer economic and political order in keeping with the interests of developing countries. It has maintained a systematic and consistent policy supporting the multilateral bloc," said a senior researcher from Cuba. HAVANA, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- The two-day Summit of the Group of 77 (G77) and China concluded on Saturday with a call for more participation and say of the Global South in the global governance system. The event was attended by delegations from more than 100 countries, including over 30 heads of state and government. First established in 1964, G77 now has over 130 members, with its chairmanship rotating among member countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America based on regional principles. Being the largest multilateral coordination organization among developing countries, G77's member states account for more than 80 percent of the world's population and over two-thirds of UN member countries. China is not a member but has been supporting and cooperating with the group under the framework of "G77 and China." STRONGER VOICE FOR GLOBAL SOUTH Highlighting the challenges faced by countries in the Global South, the summit underscored the need for a more balanced international order with greater attention to the Global South nations. Speaking at the summit's opening ceremony, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that the voice of the Group of 77 and China will always be essential for the UN system. Terming the group "a champion of multilateralism," Guterres called on G77 and China to "champion a system rooted in equality; champion a system ready to reverse the injustice and neglect of centuries; and champion a system that delivers for all humanity and not for the privileged." Cuban expert Ramon Pichs said that the G77 and China Havana Summit played an important role in advancing the global agenda including addressing the threat of climate change. "For developing countries, for G77 and China and Cuba, the moment to act regarding climate change is now," the expert said, adding this is a huge challenge for the development of all nations. In the final declaration of the meeting, the delegates urged international institutions to make additional efforts to support nations in the Global South in such areas as science, technology and innovation. The summit will help boost the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, noted Francisco Pichon, UN resident coordinator in Havana. "A reform to the international financial system, climate change and its funding as well as multilateralism agenda are paramount priorities for the United Nations," he said, in response to calls for more representation and a stronger voice of the Global South in the international governance system. "The unity and activism of G77 and China in international forums and debates are fundamental to advancing the legitimate aspirations of our peoples," the Cuban daily newspaper Granma said. CHINA'S CONTRIBUTION Since the 1990s, with more Chinese involvement under the framework of "G77 and China," the organization has been playing a more relevant role in the international arena. During his welcoming speech at the summit, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel highlighted China's efforts to promote international cooperation. "The Global Development Initiative promoted by Chinese President Xi Jinping is an inclusive and coherent proposal in keeping with a just and equitable new international order," he said. Citing the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative as an example, President of the Union of the Comoros and Chairperson of the African Union Azali Assoumani said at the summit that China is aimed at creating a balanced and inclusive scenario based on cooperation with all. Echoing these leaders' words, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro recalled that during the COVID-19 pandemic, China helped Venezuela acquire medicines and COVID-19 vaccines to tackle the emergency. "I feel impressed with the scientific, social and technological achievements reached by China," said Maduro, adding China can help G77 nations increase access to modern technology. "China has developed different initiatives that are related in one way or the other with the aims of the group," Jose Ramon Cabanas, director of the International Policy Research Center of Cuba, told Xinhua. Cabanas added that the impressive performance of the Chinese economy boosts the economic and social relations between China and G77. China gets closer to Asian, African, and Latin American countries "not to impose sanctions, but to contribute to progress and the wellbeing of all," Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega said, calling China a partner "with the will to help and express its solidarity." Unlike other global powers, the relationship between China and G77 is based on respect for self-determination, solidarity, and cooperation, said Eduardo Regalado, a senior researcher at the International Policy Research Center of Cuba. "China has been very active in promoting a fairer economic and political order in keeping with the interests of developing countries. It has maintained a systematic and consistent policy supporting the multilateral bloc," he added. (Video reporters: Lin Zhaohui, Kang Wenjun; video editors: Zhang Nan, Li Qin, Zhou Sa'ang, Hui Peipei, Wang Han, Lin Lin) MARCH 2020 Kate revealed she and Prince Charles had got 'relatively close' at the Prince's Trust Awards on March 11 - Charles was diagnosed with coronavirus in mid-March. She said: 'Around the 29/30 March, I came home came in and said [to Derek] 'god you look ill.' 'He said he had a headache, numbness in his right hand, and was struggling to breathe, 'I rang Dr Hilary (Jones) and tried to get through, he talked to Derek. He said put me back on, I think you need to call an ambulance' Derek, 52, was taken into hospital on March 30 and remained in an unresponsive condition. APRIL Kate and her children isolated at home after she displayed 'mild symptoms'. Kate said: 'Derek remains in intensive care and is still very ill. I'm afraid it remains an excruciatingly worrying time. 'I'm afraid he is still in a deeply critical condition, but he is still here, which means there is hope.' MAY Kate said: 'The journey for me and my family seems to be far from over as every day my heart sinks as I learn new and devastating ways this virus has more battles for Derek to fight. 'But he is still HERE & so there is still hope.' That month, Kate and her family took part in the final clap for carers She said: 'I'll never give up on that because Derek's the love of my life but at the same time I have absolute uncertainty' JUNE On June 5, Kate revealed Derek is now free from coronavirus but continues to fight against the damage inflicted on his body JULY On July 5, Kate revealed Derek has woken from his coma but he remains in a serious yet critical condition. On July 8, she announced she would be returning to GMB, after being urged by doctors to 'get on with life' during Derek's recovery. She added that Derek had 'opened his eyes' after waking from his coma, but has been told his recovery could take years. On July 13, Kate returned to GMB for the first time since Derek was hospitalised. On July 28, Kate revealed she'd paid an 'extra emotional' first visit to Derek, and admitted she's 'frustrated' by his slow progress. AUGUST On August 14, Kate reassured GMB viewers that Derek was 'still with us,' but it was 'a waiting game.' On August 19, Kate revealed she celebrated Derek's birthday with their two children, and described the day as 'challenging' for her family. SEPTEMBER At the end of September, Derek reportedly becomes the longest surviving patient with coronavirus after spending 184 days in and out of intensive care. Kate reveals Derek has lost eight stone during his battle. The presenter announces she is returning to her Smooth Radio show so Derek can hear her voice. OCTOBER On October 30 Kate reveals that Derek has spoken for the first time in seven months, saying the word 'pain' to his wife, who watched on 'in tears' over FaceTime. Kate says a day later that her husband no longer needs a ventilator to breathe. NOVEMBER Kate reveals her family car has been stolen in latest 'body blow' to her family life, as kind-hearted fans offer their cars to help. She says she feels 'physically sick' at the prospect of facing her first Christmas without Derek. DECEMBER The GMB star tells viewers it is her dream to visit Derek on Christmas Day. She also reveals she missed two weeks on GMB after her children were exposed to the virus, but thankfully she and the kids tested negative. On December 17, Kate has an emotional conversation live on GMB with two nurses who treated Derek when he was first admitted to Whittington Hospital in North London. On New Year's Eve she reflects on a 'calamitous' Christmas without Derek, as her house was flooded and she struggled to get a food delivery slot until her pal Emma Willis stepped in to help. JANUARY 2021 Kate reveals she and her children got to visit Derek in hospital over the Christmas period, and it was the first time her family had seen him since he was hospitalised. She also says she's banned from seeing him due to new restrictions introduced during the government's third lockdown. FEBRUARY Kate reveals she is unsure how much Derek will 'ever be able to recover' following warning from doctors that he may never wake from his coma MARCH Kate revealed that was in the process of adapting her home to suit Derek's needs when he is finally released from hospital, in the ITV documentary Finding Derek. The programmed was praised by viewers for offering a heartbreaking look at the long-term effects of coronavirus. Kate also revealed that Derek has 'no muscle left' since battling Covid APRIL Kate revealed that Derek was finally allowed to leave hospital, but would require round-the-clock care once he was returned home. MAY Kate revealed that despite now being home with his family, his communication abilities were 'minimal' and he 'couldn't really move' DECEMBER During an appearance on Piers Morgan's Life Stories, Kate revealed that Derek had said 'I love you' for the first time. After celebrating Christmas, Derek was also pictured in a wheelchair during a trip to the pantomime with his family JANUARY 2022 Kate revealed that Derek was 'very fatigued' and 'very weak' following the family outing, adding: 'I don't know what this year is going to bring.' FEBRUARY Kate offered a glimpse into the daily struggles of looking after her husband amid his battle with long Covid in the documentary Caring For Derek She also revealed that Derek would die within three days if he was left alone to care for himself. JULY On July 6, Kate revealed that Derek had been re-admitted to hospital after suffering a 'downturn,' and in a later interview said she takes things 'day by day.' On July 20, it was reported that Kate had pulled out of hosting Good Morning Britain to be at Derek's bedside after he took a 'very serious' turn for the worse. Recalling the day, the presenter told The Sun: 'At one point Derek said to me, "This is it, this time. I am gone." It was just terrifying. 'His sepsis was gut-wrenching for all of us because it had gone undiagnosed until the point where it was about to take his life away again.' JANUARY 2023 Kate became overwhelmed as she confronted former health secretary Matt Hancock over his handling of the pandemic and his decision to go on I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here. She then became tearful and looked up as she spoke about Derek, who has been unwell for approaching three years. Describing public anger towards him, Kate added of his decision: 'This gives the impression you still don't get why they are cross. You still don't get why people are upset. They want to hold you to more account.' APRIL Kate revealed that Derek was once again receiving care in hospital, as she shared the emotional moment Sir Elton John dedicated a song to the 'inspiring' couple. She shared the emotional moment Sir Elton John dedicated a song to the 'inspiring' couple, writing on Instagram: 'Yes Derek has been back in hospital this week & yes there's such a long road ahead but #eltonjohn & @davidfurnish you gave the kids & Derek a moment that we will never forget and has lifted their spirits again to feel anything is possible.' It was also reported that Kate was planning a trip across the world for pioneering treatment in a 'final hope' to help her husband. MAY Not Kate is reportedly facing a huge 716,000 tax bill after she was forced to close her husband's business two years after he became stricken with Covid-19. The final total will be settled within the coming weeks, with friends insisting she will pay whatever is owed. A friend told The Sun: 'The figures are terrifying and Kate is of course worried about all the financial pressures, but she has to trust the process. 'When it comes to an end, she is determined to pay back anything that's owed. 'It's no secret that Kate has been battling to keep her husband alive and working through some heartbreaking situations in her personal life in recent years. 'Sadly as well as the emotional stress of Derek's terrible illnesses the financial burden has also been crippling.' Kerry Katona has slammed the government's move to ban American XL bullies. Rottweiler owner Kerry, 43, insisted that the issue with dangerous dog breeds is 'about environment, care and control.' In her New magazine column, the former Atomic Kitten star fumed about the plan to outlaw American XL bullies: 'I think that's wrong. I think it's down to the owners. 'We are massive animal lovers and I've previously had a bully, a Staffordshire bull terrier and I've got a Rottweiler now - they have reputations. 'I think it's all down to how they're brought up. It's all about the environment, the care and control.' Fuming: Rottweiler owner Kerry Katona, 43, has slammed the government's move to ban American XL bullies Plans: It comes as experts are due to meet to try to define the dangerous breed ahead of plans to ban it by the end of the year, after a spate of violent attacks on people It comes as experts are due to meet to try to define the XL Bully breed ahead of plans to ban it by the end of the year. Police officers and vets will hold talks about the dogs' characteristics after a spate of violent attacks on people. But questions have been raised over how to determine which animals are XL bullies and affected by the ban, and which are not. In a written statement to MPs today, Environment Secretary Therese Coffey said: 'The Environment Secretary and the Home Secretary will convene experts to define the ''American XL bully'' breed type. 'This group will include police, canine and veterinary experts, and animal welfare stakeholders. This is a vital first step towards adding it to the list of dogs banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act.' Measures will be put in place to 'safely manage' the existing population once a ban comes into force, Downing Street said, on Monday. The ban will include an amnesty for existing owners as long as their pets are registered, neutered and muzzled when in public. Government officials stressed that by requiring all owners to get their bully dogs neutered, the breed would simply die out. There are currently no plans for a cull. Dog fan: 'We are massive animal lovers and I've previously had a bully, a Staffordshire bull terrier and I've got a Rottweiler now - they have reputations' admitted Kerry American bullies are a relatively new breed, having originated in the 1980s. They are mixed breed bulldogs, typically American pitbull terriers crossed with American, English and Olde English bulldogs. Though the bully XL is the most common, the dogs can also be bred with mastiffs and other larger dogs to make them bigger, XXL or even XXXL. Despite their relative popularity in the UK, they are not officially registered as a breed by the UK Kennel Club, making it difficult to know exactly how many are in the country. On Friday, the Prime Minister branded the dogs a 'danger to our communities' and vowed to bring in rules by the end of the year under the Dangerous Dogs Act to ban them. It came after a horrific incident 24 hours earlier when Ian Price, 52, was mauled to death in a frenzied attack by two suspected bullies, days before, Ana Paun, 11, was hurt by an American bully a type linked to 10 deaths since 2021. The Prime Minister's official spokesman said a 'transition period' would be introduced, with details likely to follow a consultation on the plan. Rishi Sunak has promised to ban the breed by the end of the year but owners of American XL bully dogs are not expected to face a cull of their pets. Owners could face a requirement to neuter their dogs and muzzle them in public, the Government's chief vet has suggested. Taylor Frankie Paul is expecting a baby with her boyfriend Dakota Mortensen 10 months after suffering an ectopic pregnancy. The 29-year-old Mormon TikTok influencer shared the exciting news on social media. 'One year later we've been blessed with our rainbow baby,' Taylor - who was charged with felony domestic abuse last year - wrote alongside a slideshow of her growing baby bump with Mortensen. 'It's been a very emotional journey from last year till now and I can honestly say I'm so excited for this new chapter of life with Dakota, my children and this baby.' Taylor shares kids Indy, six, and Ocean, three, with her ex-husband Tate Paul. Expecting: Taylor Frankie Paul is expecting a baby with her boyfriend Dakota Mortensen and she's absolutely over the moon about it The TikTok influencer added: 'Floods of emotions have came through along with a different kind of excitement and worry you feel after losing, however so far everything is healthy and on track and my heart is full.' Last month the mom of two shared an adorable snap of herself with her two kids on Instagram. She captioned it: 'Aday with my two babies, I want two more.' Mortensen is excited about becoming a father and wrote about it on his Instagram. 'There is one thing I have always felt inside of me that I have dreamed about becoming, and that's a father,' he captioned the same series of photos. 'I never thought I would ever get to say those words in my life and I will do everything and anything to be the best partner and father to our little rainbow baby.' He added: 'Ps. I literally cannot contain my excitement Hahahah' It was 10 months ago when the Utah native suffered her ectopic pregnancy. At the time, she shared how she was feeling in a TikTok video she called 'The last seven weeks.' The video started with her surprising Mortensen with an infant onesie that read 'Daddy Dakota' and followed her excessive bleeding later and eventually, her diagnosis. The last frame of the video was a photo of Taylor looking sad over which the words 'was treated, no longer pregnant' appeared. Rainbow baby: It's almost been a year since the Morman TikTok influencer shared that she'd suffered an ectopic pregnancy Thrilled: 'One year later we've been blessed with our rainbow baby,' Taylor wrote alongside a slideshow of her growing baby bump with Mortensen. 'It's been a very emotional journey from last year till now and I can honestly say I'm so excited for this new chapter of life with Dakota, my children and this baby' Mom: Taylor, 29, shares kids Indy, six, and Ocean, three, with her ex-husband Tate Paul Taylor faced felony domestic abuse charges after the threw a metal chair at Mortensen in August 2022 in an alleged drunken rage because he wouldn't take her to a concert. She accidentally hit her daughter Indy in the head during the incident. Paul pleaded guilty to aggravated assault, a third-degree felony, and had the other four charges dismissed with prejudice as part of the deal. She is now required to go to counseling, receive a substance abuse and domestic violence evaluation and not break any further laws. The charge will be dropped to a misdemeanor if she does all of this for three years. Russell Brand joked that he would 'strip' The View host Joy Behar of her tights and offered to break Sherri Shepherd's celibacy during a 2009 interview on the daytime talk show - which has now resurfaced in the wake of the shock rape and assault allegations being levied against the comedian. The incredibly risque interview, which took place over 14 years ago, was littered with sexual innuendos, with Russell joking that the panelists, including Whoopi Goldberg, Barbara Walters, and Meghan McCain, had left him feeling 'aroused'. He also stroked Sherri's bare leg after telling her she looked 'nice', promised to 'take care' of her and boasted she would 'forget her own name' because he's very 'confident' in the bedroom department. Russell, now 48 and married to Laura Gallacher, was this week landed in the middle of a high-profile sex scandal after a Dispatches expose uncovered allegations of misconduct, rape and sexual assault - all of which he denies. Russell Brand seemingly offered to spend the night with Sherri Shepherd during a 2009 appearance on The View The long-haired star stroked Sherri's bare leg as co-host Barbara Walters looked on Also present for the interview was Whoopi Goldberg, Meghan McCain and Joy Behar The sex talk began when Joy referenced Russell's controversial title of 'Shagger of the Year', asking him: 'Are you proud of that?' 'One of my greatest accolades, Joy, is my "Shagger of the Year" awards,' he replied, before admitting it was 'awkward' discussing the title with his mother Barbara. When he confirmed he had been off drugs and alcohol for six and a half years, Meghan asked him: 'You said clean of drugs and alcohol, but what about sex addiction?' Joy teased: 'Yeah! What about that, Shagger of the year?!' 'Now listen, youll have me stripped of my title and I'll have you stripped of your tights!' he replied as the studio audience laughed. He then interrupted Sherri as she tried to question him on his 'sex and shagging,' with the comedian stroking her leg and declaring: 'You look nice... I like these sort of gladiator high heel shoes youre wearing and I like your legs.' He then asked: 'Now I understand you've been celibate for a while, when you gonna give that up?' Whoopi chimed in: 'Yeah Sherri, when you gonna give up? He is an eligible man, right here...' An embarrassed looking Sherri replied: 'Don't start nothing you can't finish Russell!' To which he responded: 'I assure you this is an area in which I'm confident, I am not bluffing. I will take care of you, I will make you see multi-colored, Ill make you forget your own name, it'll be wonderful!' 'No wonder he's Shagger of the Year!' Joy blurted out, as Barbara told Sherri: 'Looks to me like you're looking forward to it, that's all I'm saying!' Russell, who was previously married to Katy Perry, then joked: 'She seems quite keen I think, Barbara,' before he turned to Sherri and said: 'Youve got all dressed up, youve got me worked up, now come on!' Joy, pictured this month, joked about Russell being named 'Shagger of the Year' The comedian has denied the allegations of rape and sexual assault made by four women Russell pictured with his pop star ex-wife Katy Perry in Los Angeles in December 2011 Sherri seemed flustered by his comments and attempted to continue the conversation by referencing his movies Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Get Him to the Greek. Referring to a scene in the latter, which sees Russell's character Aldous Snow make an appearance on The View, he said: 'You were kind enough to contribute and do a scene for that movie. Well, it was very, very enjoyable. 'You're an incredibly professional group of women and I feel a combination of relaxed and aroused in your company,' he joked, as everyone burst out laughing again. Moments later, Barbara suggested that Russell should get help for his sex addiction, before joking: 'It seems to serve you very well... whatever gets you through the night, as they say!' Russell turned his attention back to Sherri and replied: 'Well, Sherri tonight!' as he placed his arm against hers on the back of the sofa. Sherri started giggling uncontrollably as Sister Act star Whoopi grilled him on his sexual escapades and asked: 'Since you're making time with Sherri, have you ever had a sister?' 'Yeah! Loads!' he replied. 'I live in London, our country's different, we're all at it! Loads and loads, since I was proper young, like 16!' Sherri wrapped up the interview by telling him: 'Russell, thank you so much for coming. We love having you here, you have to come back.' One woman has claimed she was in an 'emotionally abusive and controlling relationship' with the star when he was 31 and she was 16 Russell and his wife Laura Gallacher, pictured here in November 2017, share two children 'You know we can meet outside the confines of this show!' he told her and leaned in again, but Sherri just laughed off the comment. The British comic was on the show to promote his second hosting stint at the 2009 MTV VMAs. Another recently resurfaced clip from Jimmy Fallon's Tonight Show has also been circulating and shows Russell suggestively bouncing Katharine McPhee on his lap. The clips come just days after Russell was accused of rape and sexual assault by four different women. The allegations were laid bare in a joint investigation between The Sunday Times and Channel 4's Dispatches, which revealed a litany of accusations against the comedian-turned-wellness influencer. The Metropolitan Police said it will speak to the media outlets in the wake of the accusations to probe Russell's alleged treatment of women, but added that at this time the force has 'not received any reports in relation' to the claims of sexual assault detailed in the article or documentary. Russell strenuously denied the allegations in a YouTube video posted the day before the Dispatches special aired, in which he described the claims as 'serious' and 'disturbing'. The comedian, actor and internet personality told his 6.5 million subscribers late on Friday night that there had been 'very, very serious criminal allegations' made against him which he 'absolutely refutes'. Russell said he had received two 'extremely disturbing letters' from a 'mainstream media TV company' and a newspaper. The father-of-two said the letters listed 'a litany of extremely egregious and aggressive attacks, which are untrue'. Russell was pictured leaving the Troubadour Wembley Park theatre on Saturday after performing a sold-out show Posting the video on X, where he has 11 million followers, he said: 'These allegations pertain to the time when I was working in the mainstream, when I was in the newspapers all the time, when I was in the movies. And as I've written about extensively in my books, I was very, very promiscuous. 'During that time of promiscuity the relationships I had were absolutely always consensual. I was always transparent about that then and I am being transparent about it now as well. 'And to see that transparency metastasized into something criminal that I absolutely deny makes me question is there another agenda at play,' he added. On Saturday evening, Russell performed at a sold-out stand-up show at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre in northwest London as part of his Bipolarisation tour. Russell had been set to perform in Windsor, Plymouth and Wolverhampton, however his promoters have now confirmed these shows will not go ahead. A statement from the show's promoters said: 'We are postponing these few remaining addiction charity fundraiser shows, we don't like doing it - but we know you'll understand. 'Theatre Royal Windsor will be offering ticket refunds in line with our Terms & Conditions of sale.' Sophie Turner cracked a relaxed smile and flashed a huge back tattoo as she continued to film ITV drama Joan in Spain recently - amid her divorce from Joe Jonas. The actress, 27, whose split from musician Joe, 34, was announced two weeks ago, looked happy as she modelled a platinum blonde hairdo and red lipstick to film the new drama - amid her personal woes. Sophie, who portrays notorious jewel thief Joan Hannington in the upcoming ITVX show, wore a blue top and stonewash jeans, paired with vampy eye make-up as she strolled to set. The star also showed off a huge temporary tattoo on her back, first debuting the huge white inking last week - which has now been transformed into black body art resembling barbed wire with splashes of red. Joan, who was married to professional thief Boisie Hannington (played by Frank Dillane), was introduced to a life of crime and the pair became Britain's most successful diamond thieves. Sophie looked in great spirits as she chatted with cast and crew members - as estranged husband Joe tours with his band - Jonas Brothers. Sighting: Sophie Turner cracked a relaxed smile and flashed a huge inking as she continued to film ITV drama Joan in Spain recently - amid her divorce from Joe Jonas Barbed wire? The star also showed off a huge temporary tattoo on her back, first debuting the huge white inking last week - which has now been transformed into black body art resembling barbed wire - with splashes of red across her back Shock split: It comes less than two weeks after she and husband Joe Jonas confirmed their marriage of four years is over (pictured in 2018) Sophie and Joe stated their breakup was 'a united decision' and they 'mutually agreed' to end their marriage. 'After four wonderful years of marriage we have mutually agreed to amicably end our marriage,' they said in a statement, which she uploaded to her Instagram. They pair concluded: 'There are many speculative narratives as to why but, truly this is a united decision and we sincerely hope everyone can respect our wishes for privacy for us and our children.' Jonas officially filed for divorce from wife Sophie last Tuesday with documents stating that their relationship is 'irretrievably broken.' Over the weekend, he got emotional while shed some light on how he's been doing since news broke that they called it quits. The estranged couple share daughter Willa, three, and a second daughter born in July 2022. While performing to a sold-out crowd at Los Angeles' Dodger Stadium on Saturday night, the Sucker hitmaker broke his silence over their ongoing divorce. 'It's been a tough week. I just wanna say, look, if you don't hear it from these lips, don't believe it. Okay?' the two-time Grammy nominee said during an emotional interlude. Interesting: The star's body art was emblazoned with splashes of red Delight: The star showed off her vampy new look on set Trailer life: The star flaunted the inking as she headed to wardrobe There she is: Sophie, who portrays notorious jewel thief Joan Hannington in the upcoming ITVX show, wore a blue top and stonewash jeans, paired with vampy eye make-up as she strolled to set Smile: Sophie looked in great spirits as she chatted with cast and crew members - as estranged husband Joe tours with his band - Jonas Brothers Glee: The star looked happy to be heading to set Siren: The star brushed off her personal woes as she filmed Stroll: The beauty looked sensational as she walked along Tatted: The star showed off the barbed wire inking as she walked 'Thank you everyone for your love and support. Me and my family love you guys,' he continued. After his statement, Joe and his brothers sang Hesitate, which he has dedicated to Sophie in the past. Turner and Jonas initially met in 2016 after the latter sent his wife a direct message through Instagram. The hitmaker was previously linked to numerous individuals, including Taylor Swift, Gigi Hadid and Ashley Greene. He eventually moved on with Sophie, and they went Instagram official with their relationship in January of 2017. The happy couple became engaged that October, and they held a pair of wedding ceremonies in Las Vegas and southern France in May and June of 2019. Fate: Turner and Jonas initially met in 2016 after the latter sent his wife a direct message through Instagram (pictured in May 2022) In 2020, the actress spoke fondly about her relationship with Jonas during an interview with Elle, where she expressed that she felt as if she ended up with the right person. 'I love being married. I think it's wonderful. I'm sure we'll have our hiccups and our different things. But right now, it's like the security and the safety is everything,' she said. Turner also discussed exactly what made the Disney Channel alum so attractive as a partner. 'He's so handsome, talented, funny, charismatic. I'm really lucky to be with him and have someone like him want to be around me and spend time with me,' she said. Paris Hilton looked like she stepped out of old Hollywood as she shopped in Beverly Hills with her husband Carter Reum. The Hottie or Nottie star, 42, wore a slightly sheer, mint green, floor-grazing dress with long sleeves. The dress had long sleeves and a plunging neckline and featured lace insets on the shoulders and top half of the sleeves, exposing hints of skin. Paris' gown had three buttons on the bodice which also exposed glimpses of skin between them. Old Hollywood: Paris Hilton looked like she stepped out of old Hollywood as she shopped in Beverly Hills with her husband Carter Reum She carried a large, white Louis Vuitton handbag and wore a white newsboy cap over her blonde hair. White Wayfarer-style sunglasses adorned her face and textured, light brown ballet slippers were on her face. Reum, who has been with Paris since 2019, looked chick in a pair of black jeans, a black v-neck t-shirt, black jacket, and black trainers. He did the chivalrous thing and carried their shopping bags in one hand while holding his wife's hand with his other hand. The couple welcomed their first child, a son named Phoenix Barron Hilton Reum via surrogate earlier this year. Paris and Carter, 42, have known each other since they were in their 20s but first connected romantically after they were both invited to a mutual friend's Thanksgiving dinner in 2019. 'I've known him for 15 years,' Hilton told People in September 2020, commenting on the spark of romance that happened at Thanksgiving. 'We just had this incredible chemistry. We had our first date and haven't spent a night apart since. It's pretty amazing.' Reum proposed to Paris in 2021 on her 40th birthday during a vacation to a private island. Glam: The Hottie or Nottie star, 42, wore a slightly sheer, mint green, floor-grazing dress with long sleeves Fancy: The dress had long sleeves and a plunging neckline and featured lace insets on the shoulders and top half of the sleeves, exposing hints of skin The lovebirds tied the knot on on November 11, 2021, in Los Angeles and had their reception at Hilton's late grandfather's former Bel Air home. She chose 11/11 because, as she told Vogue, '11:11 has always been my favorite time of day.' 'It's my reminder to make a wish and be open to miracles,' she continued. 'This date is special to Carter and Iit represents our love story, which both of us knew was meant to be. The couple honeymooned at a Hilton property in Bora Bora. Naomi Campbell was seen sharing a friendly kiss with a friend at the Burberry Spring Summer 2024 fashion show during London Fashion Week on Monday. The supermodel, 53, looked typically chic in a green patterned coat and matching trousers. She boosted her height in pointed heels and hid her eyes behind dark oversized sunglasses at the star-studded event. Naomi was later pictured walking into the venue arm-in-arm with another male friend. It comes after Naomi revealed the real reason she collaborated with PrettyLittleThing in new documentary. Sweet: Naomi Campbell was seen sharing a friendly kiss with a friend at the Burberry Spring Summer 2024 fashion show during London Fashion Week on Monday Stunning: The supermodel, 53, looked typically chic in a green patterned coat and matching trousers The model surprised fans earlier this year by revealing she'd joined forces with the online fashion retailer to create her Designed by Naomi Campbell collection. And in a new two-part film, Naomi revealed she didn't think the 'younger generation' even knew who she was. Naomi could be seen donning a number of fashionable looks as she let the camera behind-the-scenes and gave a look at the creative process into her collection. She told the camera: 'I get to speak to a younger generation of which I didn't think even knew who I was.' 'When I think fashion, fashion does not discriminate. I can't wait to see all these lovely young women wearing my designs.' She added: 'I want young girls to take from this collection to be themselves, to feel confident in how they wear these clothes and designed by me and interpret who they are in the clothes. So bringing their own essence, style swag to the outfits.' The stunner speaks to designers about several pieces in the fashion range, hailing a black blazer dress a 'classic', while noting a racy crystal dress needed to be 'longer'. The clip also sees Naomi examining mood boards, attending fittings and declaring which looks work and don't work as she put in the graft ahead of a photoshoot and of course her NYFW week show which debuted the 90-piece collection. Stylish: She boosted her height in pointed heels and hid her eyes behind dark oversized sunglasses at the star-studded event Beauty: She styled her raven tresses in a glamorous blowdry Friends: Naomi was later pictured walking into the venue arm-in-arm with another male friend LFW: London Fashion Week 2023 will take place from September 15-19, showcasing both menswear and womenswear She was also heard sharing her passion for the clothes, remarking that she wanted people to buy the piece and keep them. While another woman adds: 'We're six weeks away from our photoshoot, I'm so excited for everyone to see this collection!' PrettyLittleThing declare that the documentary will be sure to 'resonate with fashion enthusiasts globally' as it narrates the 'the inner workings' of the trailblazing 'fashion synergy'. Last week, a star-studded guest list including Emily Ratajowski, Tommy Dorfman , Lori Harvey and Molly-Mae Hague descended upon Ciprianis in New York to take in the unveiling of Naomi's fashion range. The runway sensation herself wowed as she strutted down the catwalk in a vert racy see-through jewelled dress as she debuted a range of stylish pieces she designed with the fashion retailer in its biggest partnership yet. The maxi-style piece hugged her fit, 5ft10in frame and had a sheer, black base under the accoutrements. The collection, complete with tailored blazer suits, sparkling gold and silver dresses, and statement coats, including a standout leather trench worn by guest Julia Fox , could have easily been mistaken for 'high end' fashion pieces. Paying close attention to inclusivity, the lineup of jaw-dropping models featured women of different shapes and sizes and ethnicities. Naomi's collaboration with the brand comes after years of friendship with former CEO Umar Kamani, 35, who stepped down from the helm in April but has still been heavily involved in the project. Wow: The runway sensation herself wowed as she strutted down the catwalk in a vert racy see-through jewelled dress as she debuted a range of stylish pieces Flawless: The maxi-style 85 piece hugged her fit, 5ft10in frame and had a sheer, black base under the accoutrements It comes after Naomi hit back at critics of her collaboration with online brand PrettyLittleThing, insisting 'fashion shouldn't discriminate.' As she unveiled her new 90-piece collection, in New York on Tuesday where she took to the catwalk wearing a see-through silver dress priced at 85, the supermodel vowed to ignore the snobbery towards 'fast fashion', insisting outside influences have never impacted her decisions as she says she will spearhead positive change in the industry. In an exclusive interview with MailOnline Naomi, who has worked with prestigious fashion houses such as Prada, Burberry and Yves Saint Laurent, revealed a major factor behind the surprise deal with PLT and the fashion firm's owner Umar Kamani was her desire to design her own clothes, claiming fashion brands don't usually give models the opportunity, favouring celebrity names instead. When her collaboration, which is priced between 10 to 150 and comes in sizes 4-30, was announced in July she was hit with a negative reaction from critics who claimed she was putting her reputation on the line by fronting a campaign for the brand which often emulates designer looks at a cheaper cost. Naomi said: 'I feel this collection was fun, chic, sexy, vibrant, inclusive, and fashion should not discriminate... who's to say that PrettyLittleThing are not going to continue working with young creatives and leading and changing into sustainability, who knows. New beginnings.' The mother-of-two says working with PrettyLittleThing has been an empowering experience following decades of wearing the designs of other fashion houses as she becomes the changing face of a new era. Having her say: It comes after Naomi hit back at critics of her collaboration with online brand PrettyLittleThing, insisting 'fashion shouldn't discriminate' She added: 'I have worked for years for everybody else. It's nice to do something for me. 'Whenever they think of working with someone, they never come to the actual models, they usually go to the celebrities. 'There are a few other models that have done fast fashion, and they were totally praised and adored and are loved. 'I don't think about other people when I say yes to something. If I understand it and I see what it can be then that's how I commit to the things I do.' Asked if she thinks there could be a second collection, she quipped: 'I am going wherever Umar goes now... 'But I'm always nervous when I do anything publicly... I am satisfied but now let's see how the sales go. From A-Z... I care.' The Paranormal Activity franchise is set to be turned into a stage play on London's West End - 16 years after the first film in the horror movie series was released. Simon Friend, who commandeered the Tony Award-winning Broadway production of Life of Pi has acquired the license to the franchise and plans to bring it to the theatre, reports The Hollywood Reporter. Broadway's Grey House writer Levi Holloway is on board to write the stage adaptation of Paranormal Activity - which is said to be in 'early development.' Levi Holloway, who wrote the horror-tinged Broadway play Grey House, is on board to pen the stage adaptation, which is described as being in early development. The first Paranormal Activity - which premiered in 2007 before its wider release in 2009 - was made for just $15,000 and featured a cast of unknowns - but quickly became a sleeper hit and was even dubbed 'the new Blair Witch Project'. Fright night: The Paranormal Activity franchise is set to be turned into a stage play on London's West End - 16 years after the first film in the horror movie series was released Paranormal Activity 1: Paranormal Activity is about a young middle class couple who have just moved into a starter home in San Diego (pictured Katie Featherston in the film) It took $7million on its first weekend - even though it was only shown on 160 screens across the U.S. Paranormal Activity is about a young middle class couple who have just moved into a starter home in San Diego. They have become convinced that a demonic presence lurks in their bedroom at night when they try to sleep - so they decide to set up a video camera to catch it. It starred newcomers Micah Sloat, who played a cocky and sure of himself Micah, and Katie Featherston, who played the sweet and charming Katie who has been through a haunting before. Katie has been obsessed by dark spiritual forces since her childhood, which have followed her from house to house, attracted to her for reasons that go unexplained. This is bad news for her boyfriend Micah, a young trader, with whom she has just moved in. When odd things start happening around Katie again, Micah decides to buy a video camera and film the occurrences in the hopes of capturing something on tape - or debunking her fears. Word has it in Hollywood that Paranormal Activity found its way to legendary sci-fi director Steven Spielberg. Spielberg was said to have been so creeped out while watching the film at home - a door in his house became inexplicably locked from the inside - that he switched off half way through and sent it back in a bin bag. Paranormal Activity was followed by six sequels, the most recent of which - Paranormal Activity: Next of Kin - was released in October 2021. Six sequels: Broadway's Grey House writer Levi Holloway is on board to write the stage adaptation of Paranormal Activity - which is said to be in 'early development' (pictured 2014's Paranormal Activity 5 : The Marked Ones) Sophie Habboo has spoken out about her crippling anxiety after taking time out to take care of herself. The former Made In Chelsea star, 29, who is married to series co-star Jamie Laing, 34, has not been pictured with her husband and has not appeared on their podcast Newlyweds for weeks. On Monday she took to her Instagram Stories to explain why she'd taken some time away from the spotlight, admitting she was finding it increasingly difficult to be herself. She explained: 'I wanted to address something, as I know a lot of you have been asking where I was, and sending lots of lovely messages and I wanted to thank you for those. 'But also to answer them... the truth is, I have struggled with anxiety for many years, but the last year it got pretty debilitating. And as much as I love showing you guys my life, doing the podcasts with my husband and best friend, it was becoming progressively hard to be that person as I just was not feeling myself. Troubled: Sophie Habboo, 29, has spoken out about her crippling anxiety after taking time out to take care of herself Time out: The former Made In Chelsea star who is married Jamie Laing, 34, has not been pictured with her husband and has not appeared on their podcast Newlyweds for weeks 'The more I continued to live in that space without talking about it and trying to put a plaster on it, the worse I felt. 'So, I decided to go away to recoup, be in a place that I could get professional help so that I could get back to myself, understand what was going on what was causing me to feel this way and change it. 'I'm now back and I wanted to share this with you, because not only am I so grateful to have been able to go and get help, but I also am so grateful to have been able to get back to a place where I feel like me again. 'I've learnt a lot and I know this is something that will be part of my life forever, but I have the tools to manage it now and I want to be able to be honest with you guys as I felt like I was lying to you by not telling you and showing you only one side of me on social etc. 'But truly, I am very, very, very grateful to all of you, you've sent me such kind, supportive messages and I am so happy to be back, and able to live life finally as a newly wed!! 'But most importantly, I know first hand how scary it is to admit to yourself let alone others that you are struggling mentally, and I just wanted to come on here to say it's okay. 'It's okay to say it and ask for help and hopefully I can help some of you guys to do that. 'And continue to talk about mental health on here, so that no one has to be ashamed, alone or scared.' Statement: On Monday she took to her Instagram Stories to explain why she'd taken some time away from the spotlight It comes after Sophie's husband Jamie arrived solo at the National Television Awards at the O2 Arena in London earlier this month. Posing up a storm, Jamie tucked his hands into his pockets as he rocked a black suit and khaki patterned shirt. The star paired his look with smart black suit shoes and appeared in good spirits as he offered a wide grin to the cameras. Earlier this month, Sophie and her new husband Jamie Laing looked smitten as they got ready for her sister Georgia's wedding. The podcaster wrapped her arm around Jamie, 34, as they arrived at the exotic wedding location with friends in a series of social media snaps. Sophie showcased her enviable figure in a pink bikini top and white shorts as she stood behind her beau. Getting into the holiday spirit, she donned a straw beach hat and covered her face with black sunglasses. Meanwhile, Jamie cut a casual figure in a black t-shirt and purple swimming shorts. Looking good! Jamie Laing put on a dapper display as he arrived at the National Television Awards solo at London's O2 earlier this month Missing: Arriving solo, the former Made In Chelsea star appeared without his wife Sophie on his arm Sharing the snaps to her Instagram Stories, Sophie gave fans a behind-the-scenes look at celebrations as Georgia and a group of girls enjoyed an evening together. Sophie also shared a snap of two of Georgia's friends walking through the greenery, writing 'Bridesmaids on a mission'. On Monday she took to her Instagram Stories to explain why she'd taken some time away from the spotlight. Newlyweds Sophie and Jamie said 'I do' at the Chelsea registry office in April and later tied the knot again in a grand ceremony for a second time in Spain in late May . The pathbreaking filmmaker John Waters was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Monday. The director of cult classics including Polyester, Crybaby and Pink Flamingos was honored at the ceremony by Ricki Lake, who starred in his 1988 film Hairspray. That film marked an unexpected critical and commercial success for Water, who was better known for making raunchy and surreal underground films in the previous decade. Others honoring waters included his regular actress Mink Stole and the photographer Greg Gorman. Waters, 77, who stood out as usual in an eye-catching sport coat, touchingly paid tribute to his late parents Patricia and John S. Waters at the ceremony when he posed with his fresh star while holding up a photograph of the two. His time to shine: John Waters, 77, was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Monday after a career spend directing cult classic transgressive films Old friends: Water was joined by Ricki Lake, 54, who starred in his biggest commercial success, 1988's Hairspray After Patricia's death in 2014 at age 89, the iconic filmmaker praised her to the Washington Post for teaching him the 'articles of good taste,' which he said he 'turned into a career,' though he has primarily focused on exploring bad taste in his filmography. Waters wore a striking gray striped sport coat that was covered in red and orange splotches, and he complemented it with a crimson paisley tie. His jacket also featured a striking knit collar to complement the red theme. The Female Trouble director toned down the rest of his look with navy blue trousers and light brown leather shoes. As usual, he sported his instantly identifiable pencil mustache, which has wore for decades. Waters was joined by his former leading lady Lake, who glowed in a lovely emerald green satin dress. She beamed while showing off her natural salt-and-pepper hair, and she added an extra ouch of class with long black gloves that reached to her upper arms. She starred as Tracy Turnblad, a bubbly high schooler who dreams of dancing on television before a social awakening leads her to push for the racial integration of her school. Sweet: Waters touchingly paid tribute to his late parents Patricia and John S. Waters at the ceremony when he posed with his fresh star while holding up a photograph of the two Memories: After Patricia's death in 2014 at age 89, the iconic filmmaker praised her to the Washington Post for teaching him the 'articles of good taste,' which he said he 'turned into a career' Seeing red: Waters wore a striking gray striped sport coat that was covered in red and orange splotches, and he complemented it with a crimson paisley tie Stylish: His jacket also featured a striking knit collar to complement the red theme Breakout role: Lake starred in Hairspray as Tracy Turnblad, a bubbly high schooler who dreams of dancing on television before a social awakening leads her to push for the racial integration of her school Lake's role led to an acting career and smaller roles in most of Waters' subsequent films. Her profile increased in 1993 with the launch of her eponymous talk show, which stayed on the air until 2004. Also paying tribute to Waters was another member of his regular acting company, the actress Mink Stole (real name: Nancy Paine Stoll). She put on a colorful display with a multicolored coat, which she wore with a white blouse and dark slacks. The photographer Greg Gorman wore a smart black suit with a tie-free gray shirt. Waters, who is openly gay, is considered a major influence on subsequent generations of queer filmmakers thanks to his films, which deal openly with various sexualities and sex acts, though usually with an absurd and surreal style. 'God, here I am, closer to the gutter than ever,' joked the self-depredating filmmaker at the unveiling, according to The Hollywood Reporter. He dedicated the honor to his parents, 'who, despite being horrified by my early films and some of the last ones, too, encouraged me to continue because I guess they thought what else could I possibly do but be in show business?' Moving on up: Lake's role led to an acting career and smaller roles in most of Waters' subsequent films Talk show star: Her profile increased in 1993 with the launch of her eponymous talk show, which stayed on the air until 2004 Seeing green: She beamed while showing off her natural salt-and-pepper hair, and she added an extra ouch of class with long black gloves that reached to her upper arms Longtime collaborators: Also paying tribute to Waters was another member of his regular acting company, the actress Mink Stole (real name: Nancy Paine Stoll) Artist pals: The photographer Greg Gorman (standing behind Waters) also honored him and wore a smart black suit with a tie-free gray shirt Having a laugh: 'God, here I am, closer to the gutter than ever,' joked the self-depredating filmmaker at the unveiling, according to The Hollywood Reporter By his side: He dedicated the honor to his parents, 'who, despite being horrified by my early films and some of the last ones, too, encouraged me to continue because I guess they thought what else could I possibly do but be in show business?' The ceremony was sponsored by Warner Bros. and Outfest, and he thanked the organizations for their longtime support while joking that he was glad they thought he was 'gay enough to receive' the star. 'The Hollywood Walk of Fame, youre the best, and I hope the most desperate showbiz rejects walk over me here and feel some sort of respect and strength. The drains on this magic boulevard will never wash away the gutter of my gratitude, the flotsam of my film career or the waste of Waters appreciation,' he continued. 'Thank you Hollywood, this time Ive finally gone beyond the valley of the dolls.' He also recalled how he had had a run-in with the law during an early trip to California after leaving his home turf of Baltimore, Maryland, where most of his films have been shot. 'I got out of my vehicle in 1970 at Hollywood and Vine and darted across the street and got a jaywalking ticket, the first one, and I never looked back,' he said proudly. Waters hasn't made a film since 2004's A Dirty Shame, which starred Johnny Knoxville, Selma Blair and Tracey Ullman, among others in its ensemble cast. Over the top: 'The Hollywood Walk of Fame, youre the best, and I hope the most desperate showbiz rejects walk over me here and feel some sort of respect and strength. The drains on this magic boulevard will never wash away the gutter of my gratitude, the flotsam of my film career or the waste of Waters appreciation,' he continued Going mainstream: The unveiling coincides with the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures' exhibit John Waters: Pope of Trash, which runs through August of 2024 However, last year it was announced that he was finally returning to the director's chair with the film Liarmouth, an adaptation of his novel of the same name. His Hollywood Walk of Fame star unveiling also coincides with the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures' exhibit John Waters: Pope of Trash. The museum bills it as the first 'comprehensive exhibition' to explore his history, filmmaking and artistic style. The exhibit, which opened on Sunday and runs through August 4, 2024, includes a series of screenings of Waters' films that continues through October 28. Bahrain's Labour Fund (Tamkeen) has signed an agreement with Entrepreneurs Organization Bahrain Chapter (EO Bahrain), aimed at empowering Bahraini entrepreneurs to expand their businesses through the latest edition of the EO Accelerator Program. The programme provides comprehensive advisory support and networking opportunities tailored to the needs of entrepreneurs, and it has a proven track record of helping numerous entrepreneurs increase their revenues by the end of the two-year programme. This initiative provides an opportunity for promising Bahraini businesses to enhance their productivity and increase their profitability through both training and advisory aimed at helping them reach revenues upward of $1 million at an accelerated pace. Additionally, six programme graduates who successfully meet the growth targets will be offered a membership to join EO Bahrain. Furthermore, this partnership comes in alignment with Tamkeens ongoing efforts to support and incentivise private sector enterprises that are committed to pursuing growth and enhancing sustainability and productivity. This is in line with Tamkeen's 2023 priorities, which are focused on four key pillars: facilitating the increased economic participation of Bahrainis, providing training that is aligned with the labour market needs in new and emerging skills, as well as enterprise and ecosystem development, all of which drive positive economic impact and sustainable growth. Tamkeen Chief Executive, Maha Abdulhameed Mofeez said: "As part of the long-standing partnership between Tamkeen and EO Bahrain, which began in 2017, we are working to empower Bahraini entrepreneurs with promising projects by enhancing their competitiveness and boosting their productivity. This, in turn, contributes to advancing private sector growth, a key driver of our national economy. Tamkeen is committed to providing diverse forms of support aligned with each enterprises development goals, reinforcing our wider efforts through a blend of financing solutions, grants, and technical and advisory support, as well as incentives, especially for organizations with innovative and productive business models in key sectors." The two-year accelerator programme revolves around four crucial pillars: cash, people, execution, and strategy. It offers continuous monitoring, training, and immersive activities within a stimulating environment, enriching participating projects and granting them access to EO Bahrains extensive network and valuable expertise. Participants also have the opportunity to engage in the organisations international activities, further enhancing their prospects for success. EO Bahrain President Bob Thaker said, "This collaboration with Tamkeen embodies our shared commitment to fostering an innovative and sustainable business environment in the Kingdom. The EO Accelerator Program introduces a range of initiatives, enabling participants to scale up their business, broaden their horizons and propel their projects to unprecedented levels of success and growth." The EO Accelerator Program, previously implemented through several international chapters, has achieved remarkable success rates for organisations in need of non-financial support, such as training and mentorship. Tamkeen's collaboration with EO Bahrain on this program has seen 44 participants enrolled to date, of which 43% are women. To qualify for the EO Accelerator Program, applicants must be Bahraini owners, founders, or authorized signatories involved in the management of existing enterprises with an active commercial registration, and demonstrate the potential for expansion. Applicants must also demonstrate a strong commitment to developing their businesses to achieve the program objective of increasing revenue, and currently have annual gross revenues ranging from $250,000 to $600,000. Over the years, Tamkeen has provided support to entrepreneurs and emerging enterprises through a diverse range of programs and initiatives. More than 19,000 entrepreneurs have received support in launching their ventures, and over 7,000 small and medium-sized enterprises were supported with access to financing facilities. Tamkeen has also introduced specialised programmes to bolster entrepreneurship, including the Young Entrepreneurs Program (Mashroo3i), the Startup Bahrain Pitch initiative, the Global-Ready Entrepreneur Program, and more. TradeArabia News Service Jennifer Garner made a touching gesture to a homeless man in Los Angeles on Sunday. The 51-year-old actress was spotted conversing with a man in a wheelchair before offering him a care package of essential items in the parking lot of a beach in Santa Monica. Once she noticed he was barefoot, she hopped out of her car to help him put on a pair of warm socks and even tried to give him the shoes off of her own feet. The 13 Going On 30 star who shared an affection moment with her ex-husband, Ben Affleck, the day before also generously offered him food and some cash. In a clip, she was seen chatting with the photographer asking to buy his shoes herself as her own were a size too small. Kind soul: Jennifer Garner, 51, made a touching gesture to a homeless man in Los Angeles on Sunday Thoughtful gesture: Once she noticed a homeless man in a wheelchair was barefoot, she hopped out of her car to help him put on a pair of warm socks and even tried to give him the shoes off of her own feet After the photographer declined payment and offered up his own shoes for free, he also gave her a spare change of clothes and a blanket to give to the man. Garner was then heard in the video asking him to help her change the homeless man's clothes into the fresh set. In the clip, she was also seen showing him the items in the carefully packaged goodie bag and opening up a packet of food before handing it to him. The mother-of-three appeared to have been enjoying a stroll on the beach and on her way to return home when she stopped to help the man. She was spotted dressed in casual workout attire featuring a white T-shirt, dark camouflage leggings as well as a trucker cap. She was seen wearing a pair of aqua-colored sneakers which were evidently a few sizes too small for the man but she had taken them off of her feet to see if they could be the right size anyway. The beloved and award-winning actress is known for gracing the silver screen but also uses her prominent platform for good. For over a decade, she has worked with Save the Children a global nonprofit dedicated to the health, education and protection of children. The whole package: The actress was spotted conversing with the man before offering him a care package of essential items in the parking lot of a beach in Santa Monica Lending a hand: The 13 Going On 30 star also generously offered him food and some cash. In the clip, she was also seen showing him the items in the carefully packaged goodie bag and opening up a packet of food before handing it to him Sweet exchange: She was seen chatting with a photographer asking to buy his shoes herself as her own were a size too small. He offered them without payment and Garner helped the put the shoes on the man's feet personally Heart of gold: She exchanged a bright smile with him when they realized the shoes fit him perfectly Beautiful display of humanity: After the photographer declined payment and offered up his own shoes for free, he also gave Garner a spare change of clothes and a blanket to give to the man Prepared care package: Although she had just finished exercising and was on her way home, she stopped to help out the stranger and put socks on his feet On the beach: The mother-of-three appeared to have been enjoying a stroll on the beach and on her way to return home when she stopped to help the man Exercising: She was spotted dressed in casual workout attire featuring a white T-shirt, dark camouflage leggings as well as a trucker cap Friendly star: She was also seen being friendly and chatting with a surfer on the beach Chance encounter: The producer was walking to her car when she encountered the homeless man In an interview with Southern Living published November 2022, she spoke about how she has always wanted to lend a hand to those in need because of how she grew up. She told the outlet that she grew up in a rural area of West Virginia. She explained that she donates her time and effort because she saw the devastating effects of poverty all around her. 'While I did not grow up poor, I was surrounded by it,' she said. 'And I always said I was a generation and a holler removed from rural poverty.' For that reason, she explained that she sought out the philanthropy Save the Children since 'they are definitely the leaders helping kids in rural America.' 'I've worked with Save the Children for the last 14 years,' she told the outlet. 'And I hunted them down when I had been researching what organization had the most efficacy in rural America,' she continued. 'Because I grew up in West Virginia where I knew some kids that could really use a helping hand.' The chief executive of Channel 4 has praised the brave and important piece of journalism that the broadcasters Dispatches team undertook which brought to light allegations about Russell Brand. Alex Mahon said Channel 4s Dispatches Russell Brand: In Plain Sight is a programme that raises very serious questions for Channel 4 and many others in our industry. Comedian and actor Brand, who has been accused of rape, assault and emotional abuse between 2006 and 2013, has absolutely denied the allegations. In an email sent to staff and seen by the PA News Agency, Ms Mahon wrote: You already know that I think it is critical that we eradicate all inappropriate and offensive behaviour in our industry, and that we always have a fair and supportive Channel 4 culture. Russell Brand said he "absolutely" denies allegations about his personal life (Jonathan Brady/PA) People who work in our industry, and here at Channel 4, should be able to enjoy workplace cultures they can be proud of. She added: While the allegations our team has helped unearth are deeply disturbing, I hope they can ultimately lead to further positive change in our industry, and I am committed to ensuring we are at the forefront of that change. The work, which was a joint investigation by The Times, the Sunday Times and Dispatches, also made claims about controlling, abusive and predatory behaviour while Brand was at the height of his fame working for the BBC, Channel 4 and starring in Hollywood films. The BBC, Channel 4 and Banijay UK, which bought Endemol, the company commissioned by Channel 4 to produce the Big Brother spin-off shows Brand hosted, have all launched investigations into Brands behaviour while he was working on their programmes. In a video posted online on Friday night before the first allegations were published, Brand said he has been promiscuous but that all of his relationships have been consensual. Brand was accused of pursuing audience members for sex while presenting Big Brother spin-off shows EFourum and Big Brothers Big Mouth on Channel 4. A researcher claimed concerns about Brands behaviour were reported to production managers at Endemol, the company commissioned by Channel 4 to produce the programmes in 2004 and 2005, but were dismissed. Channel 4 announced it is carrying out its own internal investigation following the allegations and the broadcaster has removed content featuring Brand from its streaming service while it looks into the claims. We will be writing to all our current suppliers reminding them of their responsibilities under our Code of Conduct, as we are committed to ensuring our industry has safe, inclusive and professional working environments, the broadcasters added. To avoid clashing, Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella chose to indulge in confidences separately this Saturday, September 16 in the morning. The exercise, popular since the presidential campaign by the former, consists of devoting a little time to journalists, dressed in jeans and wearing a simple bun, at the dawn of major political meetings. A form of warm-up, a casual word, before the evening meeting, like the one that the headliners of the National Rally held in the Beaucaire arenas this Saturday, in the Gard. Once that was done, she let Jordan Bardella play the same game later in the morning. Before joining him and participating in the conversation, in a Beaucair inn. It was enough, however, for her to speak, in a deliberately soft and calm voice, for her younger brother to step back. Theres a lot of respect from Jordan for Marine, its logical. He is not here to take his place, even if he has already learned a lot, slips a southern elected official. The converse is true. The double finalist in the presidential election does not hide her pleasure at having dubbed the lion cub Bardella. To have succeeded in imposing him in the 2019 European elections, a winning bet, then to have left him with the keys to the party a year ago, even if it meant beating Louis Aliot without contest, former companion of the one that the sailors sometimes nicknamed Queen Marine ". Since then, the 28-year-old has done the dirty work within a party where the ambitions of each side have always created conflicts and splits, sometimes spectacular. To the point that even his former internal competitors see him as a credible runner-up. There is complementarity with Jordan, repeats Marine Le Pen, while specifying: I didnt do it. I just gave him the opportunity to show what he can do. And he is capable of a lot. If I had wanted to remain president of the RN, I would have remained so. I know it's annoying, but it'll work like this. A way to cut short those who see a flaw in the duo. And possible adversity in the Elysian perspective of 2027. By inviting Jordan Bardella with the party leaders to Saint-Denis at the beginning of September and by sending out some laudatory messages, Emmanuel Macron thus tried to drive a wedge. Wasted effort ? We are complementary, but I only see a stateswoman, insists the head of the National Rally, while taking care to highlight her more right-wing and identity-based profile than Marine Le Pen. We should marry them because they look so good together, but its still Marine who wears the pants, image Mylene, an activist from Nimes who came to attend the meeting. Yes, well, little Jordan is growing up quickly and I think he has the shoulders to take the lead, says Mickael, his companion, works manager. Jean-Marie had built everything, but he had difficulty making room. We should be careful not to do the same stupid things again. At the party, no one wants to comment on this music. In this permanent campaign, we will do everything to maintain duality and complementarity, slips someone close to the RN executive. Even if it means emphasizing certain nuances between Le Pen and Bardella, the better to reach out to voters who are hesitant, particularly on the right. Thus, even if he affirms differences with Reconquete!, a formation that he considers monothematic and whose excesses he reproaches, Jordan Bardella assumes to share observations with Eric Zemmour and Marion Marechal, a competitor in the form of a thorn in the side in the European spring 2024. I do not despair of seeing all the patriots return to the camp of those who can win. Including the presidential election, underlines the one who is preparing a opening and renewal list. His opponent, we understood, is not Marion Marechal, but abstention. By positioning himself in this way, the one who has every chance of being Marine Le Pen's Prime Minister if she wins in 2027 is already planning on forming a government. Even in the event of victory at the Elysee, the RN will not necessarily have a parliamentary majority afterwards. It is therefore already a question of thinking broadly. We are becoming a mass party that goes beyond divisions, he assures us, wanting to bring in specialists, we will need them for the ministries and state secretariats. The idea does not displease Marine Le Pen. But she prefers to see beyond that. In the distribution of roles that they have assigned to themselves, Jordan Bardella must continue to manage the troops and the internal kitchen, while speaking out on internal affairs, purchasing power and security. It has supranational aims on immigration or Europe. This is how she chose to launch, on Friday, a declaration for the rights of nations and peoples. It aims, she explains, to preserve the fundamental rights of peoples, flouted by supranational organizations, such as the European Commission with its exorbitant injunctions or the World Trade Organization, but also by large commercial companies, such as Gafam. , which have their headquarters in Anglo-Saxon countries. She concedes that it will be difficult for her to pass the text she has written and hopes for the help of the political groups in the European Parliament. In the meantime, it intends to submit a constitutional bill to this effect in the National Assembly. But she does not know when, the RN's parliamentary niche, scheduled for October 12, already being taken up by other subjects. She has time, though. The objective, for the one who is to meet this Sunday Matteo Salvini, the vice-president of the Italian Council of Ministers, very close to Milan, is to display a positive stature as head of state in the perspective of 2027. She therefore plans to take advantage of the coming years to travel and spread the message. A form of slow march which coincides with what often appears as a withdrawal from national political life. For once, moreover, it was not she who was entitled to the musical flights and the tide of flags, but her runner-up. After all, since it was about launching the campaign for the European elections in June 2024, we might as well reserve the star-studded carpet for the head of the RN list. But seeing Marine Le Pen waiting for him, discreetly seated in the front row, indicates a major handover. Even if it closed the speeches under the Presidential Navy, this return confirmed a strategy: that of a Le Pen-Bardella ticket to which we will have to get used. Beyond the European deadline, where RN and Renaissance will be, as in 2019, neck and neck. Commissioner of Police (CP) Mutha Ashok Jain, along with Vice-Chancellor (V-C) Prof Bihari Lal Sharma and other university officers, inspected the site on Sampurnanand Sanskrit University (SSU) campus here on Monday afternoon where during one-day visit to his parliamentary constituency, Prime Minister Narendra Modi may visit on September 23. During the visit, the PM may see the amazing store of rare manuscripts kept in Saraswati Bhawan Library in the university. Both the CP and V-C took stock of preparations and other arrangements. Registrar Rakesh Kumar, Chief Proctor Prof Dinesh Kumar Garg, Dr Padmakar Mishra, Prof Jitendra Kumar, Ramvijay Singh and other officials were present. The V-C Prof Bihari Lal Sharma himself is taking stock of the entire preparations for which various committees on cleanliness and other types have been formed at the university level. Along with this, other concerned officers are also busy in discharging their responsibilities. Conference of HAEMOCON held: The Indian College of Haematology and Oncology Society in association with Bharat Vikas Parishad Varuna Seva Sansthan Trust organised its 2nd national conference of HAEMOCON, 2023 in Cantonment area here. In the closing session of the conference held on Saturday, the chief guest and National President of Indian Medical Association (IMA) Dr Shard Agrawal and Member, NMML, Ministry of Culture, Government of India Prof Kamlesh P Joshipura and ex-Director, IMS, BHU Prof VP Singh jointly released a book The Textbook of Clinical Hematology. The Fellowship was also given by the organisation to as many as 25 doctors including Dr Sharad Agrawal, IMA National President. For a second time in as many days, Indian-American Republican White House aspirant Vivek Ramaswamy has criticised the popular H-1B visa programme, saying the current "lottery" system needs to be "gutted" and replaced with a "meritocratic" skill-based immigration scheme to match the needs of the US. It's a lottery. Why on earth would you use a lottery when you could use meritocratic admission instead, restore merit," Ramaswamy told Fox News in an interview on Sunday. The H-1B visa, much sought-after among Indian IT professionals, is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. Technology companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China. We have to gut that system, restore meritocratic immigration, which is skills, not just tech skills, but all kinds of skills to match the needs we have in this country, but also civic commitments to this country. Take the citizenship test on the back end. I say move it to the front end even to get a visa, Ramaswamy said. "There's also lobbying-based provisions where companies who sponsor somebody, that H-1B immigrant cannot work for a different company unless they actually have a whole bureaucratic process to go through, the 38-year-old biotech entrepreneur, who is vying with former US president Donald Trump and others to get the Republican Party's nomination for the 2024 presidential election, said. Ramaswamy's latest remark comes a day after he told Politico that the H-1B system is "bad for everyone" involved. So yes I come from a place of understanding. And I've played within the rules given to us by the government, but part of my job as US president is to reform those rules to help all Americans. And I won't apologise for restoring merit, said Ramaswamy, whose former company Roivant Sciences used the programme 29 times from 2018 through 2023 to hire foreign employees under H-1B visas. Ramaswamy stepped down as chief executive officer of Roivant, a pharmaceutical company, in February 2021 but remained the chair of the company's board of directors until February this year when he announced his presidential campaign. As of March 31, the company and its subsidiaries had 904 full-time employees, including 825 in the US, according to its Securities and Exchange Commission filings. The lottery system needs to be replaced by actual meritocratic admission. It's a form of indentured servitude that only accrues to the benefit of the company that sponsored an H-1B immigrant. I'll gut it, the multimillionaire told Politico. The people who come as family members are not the meritocratic immigrants who make skills-based contributions to this country, the White House aspirant said, adding that the US needed to eliminate chain-based migration. When asked about the mismatch in the Republican presidential hopeful's policy stance and his past business practices, his press secretary Tricia McLaughlin said the role of a policymaker is to do what's right for a country overall: the system is broken and needs to be fixed. Vivek believes that regulations overseeing the US energy sector are badly broken, but he still uses water and electricity, she said in a statement. This is the same. Ramaswamy, who is himself the child of immigrants, has captured headlines for his restrictionist immigration policy agenda. He also said he would use military force to secure the border, and that he would deport US-born children of undocumented immigrants. H-1B visas are highly sought after, and the demand for these workers continues to increase. For fiscal year 2021, US businesses submitted 780,884 applications for just 85,000 available slots, jumping by more than 60 per cent. Every year, the US gives 65,000 H-1B visas which are open to all and 20,000 to those with advanced US degrees. Ramaswamy's harsh proposals have helped him stand out in the crowded primary field, according to US media reports. Last week, Ramaswamy said he would fire 75 per cent of the federal workforce if elected the President. Ramaswamy has garnered attention after his maiden Republican presidential primary debate held on August 23. The first poll after the debate said that 28 per cent of the 504 respondents said that Ramaswamy performed the best. He was followed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis with 27 per cent, and former vice president Mike Pence (13 per cent). Indian-American Nikki Haley received seven per cent of the votes. The idea of One Nation, One Election is a reverberation from the past. Though there are hurdles on the way, it is the way to go While this proposition may appear to be a recent entrant in the annals of public discourse, the concept was, in fact, the status quo in the early formative years of the Indian democratic landscape. From 1952 to 1967, simultaneous elections were the norm, ensuring a rhythm and consistency in the political and governance cycles. However, this period of synchronisation began to disintegrate between 1968 and 1969, when a spate of premature dissolutions of several state assemblies led to a ripple effect that skewed the election timelines irrevocably. While the merits and demerits of reviving the simultaneous elections are vigorously debated, it's important to recognize the judicial perspectives that have, in an indirect way, endorsed the need for political stabilitya cornerstone argument for "One Nation, One Election." Specifically, seminal judgments like Kihoto Hollohan vs. Zachillhu And Others (1992) and SR Bommai v. Union of India (1994) serve as critical touchpoints in this context. Although these cases did not directly tackle the subject of simultaneous elections, their implications are far-reaching. The Supreme Court, in Kihoto Hollohan, upheld the constitutionality of anti-defection laws, thereby affirming the need for legislative stability. Similarly, in SR Bommai, the apex court circumscribed the discretionary use of Article 356 by the President on the advice of the Cabinet, emphasising the sanctity of democratically elected state governments. In essence, these landmark judgments underline the judiciary's stance on the necessity for political stability and offer an implicit nod to ideas like "One Nation, One Election," which aim to create a more stable and predictable political environment. The financial repercussions of separate elections are monumental. The figures are staggering, both for the Lok Sabha and the state elections. Let's talk numbers. The 2014 General Elections cost the exchequer INR 3,870 crores, a sum that could have easily funded several crucial social welfare programs whilst the estimated figures on the total expenditure rose to almost INR 30,000 crores. The 2019 elections escalated the costs even further, reportedly costing INR 60,000 crores when considering the total expenditure, including that by political parties and candidates. This is significant in the notion of the concept of One Nation One Election because of the exponential rise in the estimated total expenditure during elections rising from INR 10,000 crores in the year 1998 to almost 60,000 crores in 2019. However, let's look beyond mere financials. A lurking concern that doesn't catch the public eye as much as it should is the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The MCC comes into effect as soon as elections are announced, freezing all new development activities and policy announcements. Considering that India virtually remains in an election mode year-round, the MCC has a long-term chilling effect on governance. Infrastructure projects face constant delays, policy implementation gets mired in uncertainties, and long-term planning takes a backseat. The MCC, in its current ubiquitous presence, essentially acts as a straitjacket on governance. To pivot the country towards a "One Nation, One Election" model, a multi-tiered strategy will have to be envisioned. The challenge, constitutionally speaking, is colossal. A slew of amendments will have to be enacted. Article 83(2), which stipulates the term of the Lok Sabha, and Article 172, concerning the term of the state legislative assemblies, will need to be revised. While the constitutional changes form the bedrock of this transformation, the practical aspects cannot be overlooked. Logistically speaking, the transition would necessitate a massive upgrade in electoral infrastructure. The Election Commission would require more Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter-Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs). So, what's the likely timeline for this tectonic shift? The drafting and passing of constitutional amendments alone could take up to two years, considering the political negotiations involved. A pilot phase, involving a few states, could take another two years. If successful, a phased rollout might consume an additional four to six years. Thus, we're looking at a timeline that stretches across nearly a decade, crossing multiple electoral cycles. The "One Nation, One Election" idea, although ambitious, reflects the aspirations of a nation that aims to balance its democratic ethos with administrative efficiency. It's a complex task, steeped in legal intricacies and logistical challenges. Yet, the potential advantages it offersfiscal responsibility, governance stability, and administrative focusmake it a concept that demands serious attention. In a country as diverse and complex as India, the change will be anything but straightforward. The prospective advantages of "One Nation, One Election" are multifold and transcend beyond fiscal savings. The idea also promises to bring a certain degree of predictability into the Indian political landscape. This stability, in turn, could make governance more accountable and transparent. But what about the international perspective? One compelling example is the United Kingdom, which had for decades operated under a system of 'snap elections' triggered by various factors including the loss of a no-confidence motion or the decision of the ruling party. This changed with the Fixed-term Parliaments Act of 2011, championed by then Prime Minister David Cameron. The Act stipulated that general elections would be held every five years on the first Thursday in May. This reform brought a semblance of predictability into the British electoral process and has since been a point of reference for other democracies looking to streamline their electoral systems. Implementing the "One Nation, One Election" idea would necessitate the realignment of several constitutional provisions. Article 356, which allows for President's Rule, and Article 365, concerning failure to comply with or to give effect to directions given by the Union, could both serve as disruptors to a fixed-term electoral cycle. Thus, modifications to these Articles, likely via constitutional amendments, would be necessary to create a legally sound foundation for simultaneous elections. Moreover, the Election Commission of India would need to undergo massive infrastructural and logistical changes to implement this mammoth task. Advanced planning, down to the last detail, would be required. An exhaustive database would have to be created and maintained to ensure that electoral rolls are accurate, reflecting the dynamic demographic changes of a nation with a population of over 1.3 billion. Technological improvements, including the potential deployment of blockchain technology for secure and transparent elections, could also be explored. Given the grand scale of this change, one could argue that a decade might be an optimistic estimate for its full implementation. The first two to three years could be devoted solely to building a bipartisan consensus, followed by meticulous legal drafting. The pilot projects, reviews, and nationwide implementation could then be staggered over the remaining years. The reality is that "One Nation, One Election" is a vision that demands serious contemplation. It requires us to juggle constitutional amendments, tackle logistical nightmares, address political concerns, and yet keep the democratic spirit intact. It's a high-stakes gamble, with the potential for monumental gains. The dividends it promises in terms of governance, fiscal responsibility, and administrative convenience, are too significant to overlook. It cannot just reform but transform the way India administers itself. In a country where every policy and every reform is intensely scrutinised, critiqued, and debated, the road to "One Nation, One Election" will undoubtedly be fraught with hurdles. Yet, it is an idea whose time has come, and it is up to the collective wisdom of the Indian polity to navigate the intricacies and lay down a roadmap for one of the most significant electoral reforms in Indian history. (Writer is a legal expert; studied law at Kings College, London) Congress leaders are upbeat after the weekend Congress Working Committee meeting in Hyderabad They are ready to plunge into poll mode. The CWC, the Party's highest policy-making body agreed on several contentious and sensitive topics and planned its future course. The meeting was the first after Mallikharjun Kharge became party president. The Gandhis had a strong presence, with Sonia, Rahul, and Priyanka attending the conference. Following three productive gatherings of the Opposition coalition in INDIA, the CWC. members voiced their backing for Rahul Gandhi's leadership and their intention to move forward with the Bharat Jodo Yatra 2-0. There was a sense of assurance and positivity in the air. The choice of Hyderabad as the capital of bifurcated Telangana is significant as assembly polls are due in three months. The Congress has lost both bifurcated states Andhra Pradesh since 2014. After considering the political, economic and security situations, the CWC. emphatically declared that it is fully prepared for the upcoming Assembly polls and the 2024 Lok Sabha. Congress presented itself as an alternative to the BJP with the support of the INDIA coalition. Congress leaders are optimistic about INDIA alliance. The Grand Old Party wants to play a primary role in the coalition and criticised the Modi government's failure on all fronts, particularly in Manipur and Kashmir. One of the 14 resolutions said, "The CWC. reiterates the Congress party's resolve to make the INDIA. initiative an ideological and electoral success so that our country is freed from divisive and polarising politics, the forces of social equity and justice are strengthened, and the people get a Union Government that is responsible, responsive, sensitive, transparent and accountable." In essence, this will be the thrust of the poll campaign. This message serves as a reaffirmation of the Party's unwavering commitment to its alliance partners. There have been doubts about it because of the inherent contradictions among the players. The Party strategized for the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, and Mizoram. It took note of the challenges including differing views between the central leadership and specific state units on forming alliances and adjusting seats with some members of the INDIA coalition. According to internal assessments, the Party expects trouble from within its Punjab, Delhi, and West Bengal ranks. Party leaders in Punjab and Delhi don't support the rival Aam Aadmi Party. In West Bengal, the state leadership competes directly with the Trinamool Congress. In Rajasthan, the Congress and BJP are closely competing for power. Based on internal surveys, the Congress party has a slight advantage in Chhattisgarh and a stronger position in Madhya Pradesh. Party insiders also report that the Congress is gaining momentum in Telangana. The Party organised a two-day event to celebrate Hyderabad Day on September 17th, which marks the city's inclusion in India in 1948. Resolutions about legislative business in Parliament mainly centred on rejecting proposals to review the Constitution. The Party demanded the one-third women's reservation Bill and augmented reservation limits for SCs, STs, and OBCs. These measures aim to win over various voter groups. The CWC also opposed a proposed Bill to amend the salary, allowance, and service conditions of the Chief Election Commissioner and the two Election Commissioners. They argued that the bill may harm the independence of the Election Commission. The CWC. has opposed the BJP's proposal of "one nation, one poll," citing it as unconstitutional. Nevertheless, the Modi government has established a committee, led by former President Ram Nath Kovind, to explore the feasibility of conducting coexistent elections for Lok Sabha, state Assemblies, municipalities, and panchayats. One resolution criticized the heartlessness of the BJP for celebrating Modi's G20 achievements during a crisis in Jammu and Kashmir, disrespecting the sacrifice of security personnel. Meanwhile, the Congress is careful and avoids controversial topics by stating that they believe in the principle of sarva dharma sambhavana. Significantly, at a public rally in Madhya Pradesh, Prime Minister Modi recently accused INDIA bloc of trying to eliminate Sanatana culture and making it a political agenda for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. At the public rally following the CWC, Sonia Gandhi made six promises for the upcoming Telangana elections. Sonia has announced several benefits, which are as follows: 1. Women will receive a monthly sum of Rs 2,500. 2. Farmers and tenant farmers will receive an annual amount of Rs 15,000. 3. Home loans who need them. 4. Homeless will receive house sites and a sum of Rs 5 lakhs. 5. Programs to support the development of young people. 6. Medical assistance to all needy citizens. These benefits were aimed at attracting voters with freebies. The Congress, however, has yet to reveal its new narrative, while it is clear that ideology is the central plank. The Congress has to work hard to improve its position. The success of the Party will depend on several factors, including seat sharing, candidate selection, Alliance, resources, and worker support. But the worker's morale has been boosted. (The writer is a popular columnist, views expressed are personal) Old paves way for the new Parliament House Reminiscing the extraordinary journey of the countrys democracy in Sansad, which would pass into a relic of the past in another 24 hours, the members in the both Houses of Parliament the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday spoke on the milestones in the last 75 years, including many highs and lows which shaped and set the destiny of the nation. For several members of Parliament, it was a nostalgic trip down memory lanes in the Parliament house by invoking the architects of modern India from first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to Indira Gandhi to Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The five-day special session that commenced in the old Parliament was the last in the historic iconic building that will be now turned into a museum as the MPs of both the Houses would do the rituals of Grih Pravesh in the adjacent new Parliament house on Tuesday and then resume the sittings in the afternoon. We are saying farewell to the historic building, the Prime Minister said, adding that though the building was constructed by the British We cannot forget that the building was built by the labour and sweat of our citizens. The Rajya Sabha on its part paid tributes to architects of the Constitution, saying it has stood the test of time with Leader of the House Piyush Goyal, who initiated the debate, stating Parliament upholds democracy. Goyal said while the elected MPs have made big contributions to strengthen democracy, the nominated Rajya Sabha members have also given their best. Late Dr Chandan Mitra, the then Editor of The Pioneer, served two terms in the Rajya Sabha with the first as nominated by the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Government. Mitra served as Chairman of Select Committee of the Insurance laws (Amendment) Bill in 2014 and then Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Commerce in 2016. Various political parties, including the BJP, the Congress, also called for passing the Womens Reservation Bill while discussing the Parliamentary Journey of 75 Years Starting from Samvidhan Sabha Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings on the first day of the five-day special session. The Parliament house, universally known as Sansad Bhavan, was conceived in the circular design by the eminent architects Lutyens and Baker in 1912 and 1913. Its construction spanned from 1921 to 1927, culminating in its inauguration as the seat of the Central Legislative Assembly, the Council of State, and the Chamber of Princes, which also accommodated the Indian Supreme Court until 1958. Inaugurating the discussion in the Lok Sabha, Modi commended the foresight of first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and subsequent leaders such as Lal Bahadur Shastri, PV Narasimha Rao, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee. However, he also brought to light the cash-for-vote scandal during the Manmohan Singh Government, urging for reflection on all facets of the parliamentary legacy. Who can deny Nehrus significant contributions? remarked the Prime Minister, emphasising how politics often intervenes in recognising such achievements. Modi also commended PV Narsimha Rao, another Prime Minister from the Congress, for his pioneering economic policies, which are now yielding positive results for the country. Reflecting on the establishment of Uttarakhand, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh by Vajpayee, Modi lamented that the creation of Telangana from Andhra Pradesh during the Congress-led UPA regime led to bitterness and bloodshed in both States. In this very Parliament, Pandit Nehru spoke of the stroke of midnight hour, and his words continue to inspire us all, Modi stated, while Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi observed. Modi highlighted that the most significant achievement of these 75 years is the increasing trust of the common person in Parliament. He expressed hope that the shift to the new building on Tuesday would usher in a new era of hope and confidence. He took a moment to honour those who have guided this House, from Pandit Nehru to Vajpayee. Additionally, he paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Chandrashekhar, and Lal Krishna Advani for their enriching contributions. Modi praised BR Ambedkars vision for industrialisation, aimed at bringing social justice, which remains the cornerstone of contemporary industrial policies. He acknowledged the somber moments when the Parliament mourned the loss of three serving Prime Ministers-Nehru, Lal Bahadur Shastri, and Indira Gandhi. He also recognised the Houses support for the liberation of Bangladesh under the leadership of Indira Gandhi. The Prime Minister recalled the contributions of the 7500 MPs, including 600 women parliamentarians. He mentioned the oldest member of Lok Sabha, 93-year-old Samajwadi Party MP Shafiqur Rahman Barq, and the youngest, 30-year-old Chandrani Murmu of Biju Janata Dal (BJD), who became an MP at 25. Speaker Om Birla noted the success of the recently concluded G20 meeting organised in the national Capital and across 60 cities for over a year. In the Upper House, Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar emphasised that Parliaments hallowed precincts have witnessed both highs and lows, and reflecting on these experiences is crucial in propelling the country to its rightful place in 2047, when it celebrates the centenary of its independence. Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, following the Prime Ministers address in the Lok Sabha, urged the Centre to pass the Womens Reservation Bill, attributing its inception to Sonia Gandhi. He credited Sonia for her role in the enactment of the RTI Act, Right to Food Act, and Right to Education Act during the UPAs rule. Chowdhury highlighted concerns about potential one-party dictatorship, attempts to destabilise Opposition party-ruled States, and the selective use of Central agencies. He also acknowledged the achievements of previous governments, including the Indo-US nuclear deal and the IT revolution. Initiating the discussion in the Upper House, Goyal underscored the invaluable contributions made by various chairmen towards strengthening Parliamentary democracy. Opposition members criticised the BJP-led NDA Government for allegedly favoring majoritarianism and disregarding the principles of Parliamentary democracy. Leader of Opposition and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge emphasised the foundational role of the Constitution in Indian democracy. He credited his party with the enduring efforts to fortify democratic institutions over seven decades, promoting an inclusive society. Kharge contrasted the number of speeches delivered by past Prime Ministers, noting that Vajpayee gave 21 speeches and Manmohan Singh around 30, while the current Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, spoke only twice in the last nine years, excluding customary addresses. Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Health, Medical Education & Family Welfare, Arun Kumar Singh, today gave several new ideas to enhance healthcare facilities in rural sectors. Speaking as the chief guest in a consultative workshop organised by Tata Steel Foundation he lauded the efforts of the TSF and made suggestions on having blood storage facilities at the Community Healthcare Centres (CHCs), creation of childcare and expecting mother kits, adolescent healthcare scheme and few others that would suitably address the concerns around maternal and neonatal health. A coffee table book, encapsulating the ten fruitful years of MANSI+ was also unveiled at the event by the chief guest. The Tata Steel Foundation brought together representatives of State machinery, American India Foundation, organisational healthcare practitioners and grassroots healthcare workers for a state consultation on MANSI+ (Maternal and Neonatal Survival Initiative) in a workshop organised here on Monday. MANSI+, launched in 2021-22 and building on the learnings of earlier years, presently reaches every rural household in remote and hard-to-reach areas in the Kolhan division of Jharkhand, saturating all 38 developmental blocks across three districts - East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum and Seraikela-Kharsawan, in a life-cycle-based approach. Adding to the conversation, Sourav Roy, CEO, TSF, said, Health has always been a core focus area for us at the Tata Steel Foundation. We have been making consistent efforts in promoting health-seeking behaviour through various pillars, like, in MANSI+, we have operation sunshine - an app that records real-time data and sends an alarm for immediate intervention. MANSI+ is a comprehensive three-pronged approach which covers adolescent sexual health and awareness, the nutritional aspect of expecting mothers and the holistic growth of the mother and the child. And, the success of MANSI+ in the last ten years has motivated to have loftier ambitions by recalibrating our approach to overall health, as we are now taking small steps in addressing concerns around non-communicable and vector-borne diseases, anaemia and preventable blindness. The challenges that lie entrenched in the healthcare sector were suitably taken up during an open house discussion that observed inputs from the organisational healthcare practitioners. The diverse inputs set the tone for the experience sharing of the frontline healthcare workers through a baseline survey and on-ground observations. The event also saw the participation of sahiyyas and MANSI mitras who have been an integral part of the journey, in making healthcare accessible even in the farthest corners of communities, where commute is extremely challenging. | The Maryada Purushottam Shriram International airport in Ayodhya is expected to be completed by October, ahead of the inauguration of the Ram temple. The temple is likely to be inaugurated in January of next year, while commercial flights are expected to commence in November or early December 2023 from Ayodhya. The new airport, with a development cost of approximately Rs 350 crores, will be suitable for the operation of A-320/B-737 type of aircraft. The development work includes an extension of the existing runway for the operation of Code -C type of aircraft, terminal building, ATC tower, fire station, car parking, new apron for parking 3 code C type of aircraft and other infrastructure. The new terminal building, with an area of 6,250 sqm, is equipped to accommodate 300 passengers during peak hours. Passenger facilities include 8 check-in counters, 3 conveyor belts, car parking for seventy-five cars, and bus parking. In its initial stages, the new airport will connect the temple town with New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. Later, more flights and destinations will be added, thus paving the way for the temple town to be transformed into a big pilgrim centre of north India. Ayodhya, the birth place of Bhagwan Ram, is a holy place and has immense potential to boost pilgrimage. The airport is equipped to handle commercial flights in different weather conditions and the construction of the runaway, as well as the air traffic control tower is complete. The necessary groundwork encompassing civil, electrical, IT will be completed by October end. The frequency and the slots of flights to and from Ayodhya will decided by the Airports Authority of India. While the 400 acres required for the first phase has already been acquired, the remaining has been demarcated for acquisition to feed phase II and III of the project. Currently, Ayodhya has a small airstrip to handle non-commercial and chartered flights. However, despite the absence of a proper airport, it witnessed an upsurge in the number of pilgrims after the construction of the temple started in August 2020. Recently, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that once the temple was opened for devotees, the pilgrim flow to the town could reach an annual mark of 10 crore. During the UP Global Investors Summit 2023, the Japan-based Hotel Management International Company Limited (HMI Group) signed an MoU to invest Rs 7,200 crore in launching hotels in prominent tourist centres such as Agra, Ayodhya, and Varanasi. Meanwhile a string of marquee hotels, including both luxury and budget categories have made a beeline for projects in Ayodhya. More than 25 hoteliers have already registered with portal of UP tourism and nearly two dozen more companies to follow suit. Currently, there are about 18 quality hotels in Ayodhya with a combined inventory of 600 rooms, the demand of which is expected to witness a sharp jump once the temple is inaugurated. Interestingly, the planned transformation of Ayodhya is estimated to cost Rs 30,000 crore to the exchequer under Ayodhya Vision 2047 theme. These funds are targeted to be invested in about 260 projects pertaining to tourism, aviation, infrastructure, housing, medical, energy, culture, urban development, and transport. ANYbotics strengthens its presence in the Middle East, appointing Sigma Enterprises as a reseller partner for the UAE. Sigma Enterprises, part of the privately-held diversified holding company Mazrui International, will increase inspection robot deployment in the region's oil and gas, power, chemicals, metals, and transportation sectors. ANYbotics' advanced mobile robots perform autonomous inspections, asset monitoring, and anomaly detection in complex industrial environments. Sigma Enterprises will offer the ANYmal inspection solution, support services, customer training, and technical expertise. The partnership and ANYmal will be showcased at Adipec 2023 (International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference) in Abu Dhabi, October 2-5. ANYbotics' collaboration with Sigma Enterprises (part of the Mazrui Group) underscores the demand for industrial robotic inspection in the region, particularly in the oil and gas and power sectors. Sigma Enterprises and ANYbotics have combined their automation and advanced-legged robotics expertise to provide unparalleled industrial inspection solutions. By leveraging local expertise, industry networks, and proximity to key players delivered through Sigma, ANYbotics can better address the specific needs of production facilities, improve customer support and build a strong position in this crucial market. Satschin Bansal, Global VP Strategic Alliances & Partnerships, ANYbotics, said: As part of the Mazrui Group, Sigma Enterprises provides one of the UAE's best-in-class calibration and technology support services. Growing ANYbotics' presence in the region and focusing on expanding our partner network with accomplished reseller partners like Sigma Enterprises are strategic initiatives that drive our growth, increase market penetration and accelerate the global adoption of our robotic inspection solutions. With the addition of ANYbotics' robots to its portfolio and the introduction of state-of-the-art robotic inspection technology in the region, Sigma Enterprises is changing the inspection landscape. ANYbotics' inspection solutions increase safety by reducing worker exposure to hazardous environments, improve predictive maintenance through early detection of equipment anomalies, and optimize production through more accurate and frequent data collection. ANYbotics' advanced autonomous robots are designed to perform autonomous inspection, monitoring, and anomaly detection tasks in diverse and complex industrial environments. They provide immediate added value by integrating as an end-to-end solution with asset management software and digital twin platforms that enable customers to automate inspections easily. Leveraging its extensive experience in oil and gas, power generation, and utilities, Sigma Enterprises offers ANYmal and ANYmal X inspection solutions including a range of local support services, customer training, and technical expertise to ensure successful implementation and operation. Marwan Moubarak, Managing Director, Sigma Enterprises, said: At Sigma, we are proud to work with world-leading technology brands from America, Europe, and Japan, among others. By partnering with ANYbotics, Sigma Enterprises can leverage its expertise in advanced technology to expand its offerings and provide effective solutions to its customers.--OGN/TradeArabia News Service On completion of his three-year tenure, the Vice Chancellor of Birsa Agricultural University (BAU), Dr Omkar Nath Singh, was given an emotional farewell by various units and officials of the university on Monday. Senior officials of the university discussed his human qualities, administrative ability and scientific contribution and wished him a healthy and happy future life. Dr Singh, basically a genetics and plant breeding expert, has done a lot of work in the field of rice research and has developed many popular varieties of rice which give better yield in fewer resources. He joined as BAU Vice Chancellor on 19 September 2020 and took effective steps to improve teaching, research and extension education work even during the Corona pandemic. As the Vice Chancellor, he has made every possible effort to find solutions to all the problems of the university. Despite the acute shortage of professors, scientists and staff in BAU, in a short period of two years and eleven months, BAU has made many achievements in every field. Singh said, On the auspicious occasion of the Country's 76th Independence Day celebrations, I would like to present some important achievements before you all. Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav Fortnight was celebrated with great pomp and show in the University with the courtesy of National Service Scheme (NSS) from August 1 to 15, 2022. A team of soldiers of ITBP, Ranchi celebrated the Amrit Mahotsav of Independence with the students. During the last three months, a total of 6 Kisan Goshti-cum-Small Agricultural Equipment Distribution programs were organized for the social and economic upliftment of farmers in the villages of freedom fighters and martyred heroes of Jharkhand. These programs were organized in the name of 'Paramveer Chakra Winner Martyr Albert Jari village in Gumla district of Ekka, Murgu village in Gumla district of freedom fighter Telanga Khadiya, Karonda Litatoli, the ancestral village of Gumla district of BAU founder and former Union Minister Kartik Oraon, Serengsia village in Tonton block of Chaibasa district of freedom fighter Poto Ho and Organized for the tribal farmers associated with the Progressive Farmers Organization of Shaheed Gram Ghaghra Beda, Bundu, Ranchi. During these programs, free distribution of ten types of various small farming equipment, battery operated spray machines and vermi beds to a total of 575 tribal farmers. Farmers were given information about advanced farming techniques of Kharif crops and problems related to farming were solved, said Singh. The VC informed that 53 non-teaching staff reinstated by the order of the Court were paid imaginary benefits under the notification of service regularization and university rules and regulations with the approval of the Management Board. A letter requesting immediate action for appointment to the vacant or advertised posts under the University was sent to Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Raj Bhavan was also informed about it. Appointment process on the backlog posts of Assistant Professor of Veterinary College was completed. A total of 77 posts of teachers were advertised by the Commission and till now the Commission's recommendation has been received on a total of 19 posts, he added. Singh said that due to the continuous efforts of the University, rotation clearance for a total of 175 posts has been received from the Department of Personnel and Administrative Agriculture. A proposal to start the appointment process of teachers in new and old colleges has been sent to the JPSC. This includes 72 posts of professor, 25 of university professor and 2 of Dean. Administrative approval was given to the seventh revised pay scale for teachers, scientists and employees and seventh revised pay scale pension to pensioners of teaching and non-teaching cadre, he added. The VC said that by promoting a total of 54 scientists working in 16 KVKs, the grade pay benefit was increased from Rs 6,000 to Rs 7,000. As per the instructions of the State Government, Career Advancement Scheme (Cash) promotion of teachers and scientists is under process. Teachers and scientists notification has been issued for increasing grade pay from Rs 6,000 to Rs 7,000 and grade pay benefit from Rs 7,000 to Rs 8,000. Other cases under cash promotion are under process, he added. Former Pb MLA, husband arrested in DA case Chandigarh: Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) on Monday took former MLA Satkar Kaur Gehri and her husband Jasmail Singh Gehri into custody in connection with a case involving disproportionate assets. The arrests followed an extensive vigilance enquiry conducted by the authorities. A spokesperson for Punjab Vigilance said the investigation revealed a significant disparity between the couples accumulated assets and their known sources of income during Satkar Kaur Gehris tenure as a member of the Legislative Assembly. During the period under scrutiny, her total income from various sources amounted to Rs 1,65,34,053, while their total expenditures during the same time-frame totaled Rs 4,49,19,831. Consequently, their expenditures exceeded their income by Rs 2,83,85,778.41, representing an alarming disproportionate increase of 171.68 per cent, he added. Punjab skill development mission begins process to empanel training partners Chandigarh: To empower the states youth by imparting industry-relevant skill training for enhancing their prospects for a better livelihood, Punjab Skill Development Mission (PSDM) has embarked on the process to empanel training partners having the vision and dedication to enhance the skills and employability of individuals in the state, Employment Generation, Skill Development and Training Minister Aman Arora said on Monday. Punjab Human Rights panel takes cognizance of students mysterious death in Patiala Chandigarh: Taking suo motu cognizance, the Punjab State Human Rights Commission on Monday ordered an inquiry into the mysterious death of a girl student, Jashandeep Kaur, from Punjabi University, Patiala. The Commission, headed by PSHRC chairperson Justice Sant Parkash and member Justice Nirmaljit Kaur, called for a detailed report from Patiala SSP to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident. Protests broke out at the varsity after the demise of Jashandeep Kaur, a student at Punjabi University, after she was brought back home from the university hostel under mysterious circumstances. The report raised questions about the circumstances of her death, particularly considering her underlying health condition as an asthmatic individual. Hry CS reviews developmental projects Chandigarh: Following a comprehensive review meeting of development projects worth more than Rs 100 crore, Haryana Chief SecretarySanjeev Kaushal on Monday said that work on 21 projects in 13 departments, costing Rs 8076.93 crore, is progressing on time. Three projects of Urban Local Bodies department, costing Rs 455.14 crore, have been completed. The Chief Secretary said that the projects are progressing on schedule including five projects of Urban Local Bodies, four projects each in Town and Country Planning as well as the Public Works (B&R) and Architecture, and two projects dedicated to the Agriculture and Farmer Welfare, and 1 project each in the Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Cooperation, Industries and Commerce, Irrigation and Water Resources, Medical Education and Research, and Public Health Engineering Departments. Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel said on Monday that the Chhattisgarh Mahtari is a symbol of the state's identity, honour and pride. The Chhattisgarh government is dedicated to promoting the states art and culture, he said. He said this at an event in which he unveiled the statue of the Chhattisgarh Mahtari at the Collectorate office premises in Bijapur district. He said: Meaningful initiatives like the Tribal Dance Festival, Rejuvenation of Devgudi and Adivasi Parab Samman Nidhi have been taken to honour the tribal community. Initiatives are also being taken to celebrate Chhattisgarhs traditional festivals on a large scale." A bandh was observed on Monday over the death of a 32-year-old man from the Sikh community who was thrashed by a group of men last week in Durg district in Chhattisgarh. Business establishments were shut in Durg and Bhilai cities till late afternoon during the bandh called by the Chhattisgarh Sikh Panchayat. Four persons were arrested and a teenage boy was detained on Saturday for beating Malkeet Singh alias Veeru to death in Khursipar area. The bandh, supported by the BJP and the Chamber of Commerce, was observed from 9 am to 2 pm. The body of the deceased is in a hospital in Raipur as his family has refused to cremate the remains demanding a government job for his widow and compensation of Rs 20 lakh, said Arvindar Singh Khurana, president of the Gurudwara Shri Guru Singh Sabha (Durg). Durg collector Pushpendra Singh Meena said the district administration has offered Rs 5 lakh and a contractual job in the government to a family member of the deceased but the family is yet to accept them. Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has said that the success of the Swachh Bharat Mission being undertaken in the country under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become a talking point in the foreign countries. He said that the mission has helped in creating a positive mindset towards maintaining sanitation in the country. He was addressing the inauguration of the Swachhata Sewa fortnight at his residence on Monday. The CM said that the public participation in the efforts of the government helps in increasing the efficacy of the effort. He said that Uttarakhand is said to be the abode of gods and they reside only where there is cleanliness. Dhami said that the State has established itself as a global tourist destination and tourism and cleanliness are interrelated. Maintaining sanitation also helps in increasing tourist inflow. The CM said that the sanitation service fortnight is being organised by the State government from September 17 to October 2. He said that the State government is working in the direction of effectively implementing the concept of garbage free India. Dhami expressed hope that Panchayat representatives, social organisations, self help groups and the general public will participate in the programme. In the programme the CM felicitated 15 village Panchayats and five sanitation workers. The Gram Panchayats were selected from the Swachh Survekshan-Gramin-2023. Congratulating the representatives of the award winning Panchayats, the CM said that their commitment and effort has written a new chapter in cleanliness. The programme was attended by mayor of Dehradun Sunil Uniyal 'Gama', MLA Savita Kapoor, principal secretary RK Sudhanshu, secretary AS Hyanki, urban development director Nitin Bhadauria and others. In a distressing incident, former Akali Dal minister Jagdish Singh Garcha and his family fell victim to a shocking crime. Garcha, along with his wife, sister, and a domestic helper, were discovered in an unconscious state at their residence in Maharaja Ranjit Nagar on Pakhowal road on Monday. Local law enforcement has reported that the familys home was not only ransacked but also subjected to theft. The primary suspect in this unsettling case is the male domestic helper, who has since gone missing, according to the police authorities. Inspector Gurpreet Singh, the Station House Officer (SHO) of Sadar police station, has indicated that initial evidence points to the male domestic helper having served the family food tainted with intoxicants on Sunday night before making a hasty exit, absconding with cash, jewelry, and other valuable possessions. Upon the discovery of Garcha, his wife, and two other female domestic helpers in an unconscious state on Monday morning, they were promptly transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention. Local authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident. Jagdish Singh Garcha, who formerly served as an SAD MLA representing Kila Raipur in Ludhiana and held a Cabinet Ministerial position within the SAD-BJP government, had been known for his staunch loyalty to the Badal family. His political journey included serving as the Minister for Technical Education and, at one point, facing allegations of corruption leading to an arrest by the vigilance department. In 2020, he decided to depart from the party, subsequently joining the faction of SAD (Sanyukt) rebels. The Delhi High Court on Monday permitted the Delhi University to offer admissions in its newly introduced five-year integrated law course on the basis of the score of CLAT-UG, held last year, only for the current academic year 2023-24. A bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Sanjeev Narula passed the interim order while observing that classes have started in all other universities for the current academic session. The high court was hearing a petition against Delhi Universitys (DU) decision to admit students to the five-year integrated law course solely on the basis of Common Law Admission Test UG 2023 and not Common University Entrance Test (CUET). The court observed that the matter involves a broader issue - whether CUET should be mandatory for admissions in all central universities or if such varsities should have the liberty to make decisions in the matter of admission. The matter requires consideration. However, for the present academic year, as in all universities the classes have started, the Delhi University is permitted to admit students for the five year law courses based upon CLAT-UG which is a common law entrance test, the bench said. The bench appointed senior advocate Arun Bhardwaj as amicus curiae to assist the court in the matter and listed the petition for further hearing on November 23. During the hearing, the bench perused the affidavit filed by the University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman pursuant to the courts earlier directions. The affidavit stated that CUET is not mandatory for professional specialised courses like law, engineering and medicine and that the universities offering such courses can adopt different admission criteria including conducting entrance tests like CLAT and NEET. UGC said it has resolved that CUET will be mandatory for admissions in all general degree programmes in central universities. The bench had earlier asked the UGC Chairman to file an affidavit clarifying whether CUET is mandatory for admission to 5-year law degree courses in central universities, after its two top officials spoke in different voices on the issue. The eight-day Monsoon Session of the Himachal Pradesh Assembly began on Monday with the House paying homage to 441 people who died due to rain-related incidents in the state and also mourned the death of former MLA Khub Ram. Making the obituary reference, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said Khub Ram, former MLA from the Anni constituency, was elected to the Assembly in 1982, 1990 and 2012. Khub Ram died on July 19. He also paid homage to the 441 people who have died since the onset of monsoon season on June 24. Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania prayed for those who died in the rain-related incidents. Expressing grief at the deaths of the 441 people, Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly Jai Ram Thakur said the affected families are yet to recover from the shock, and they are still waiting to get the bodies of their loved ones. The session started on a stormy note with the opposition BJP staging a walkout after the Speaker rejected their adjournment motion, seeking an immediate discussion on the monsoon calamity in the state. Moving the resolution, Sukhu said that destruction was unprecedented but the state government faced the challenge boldly and besides restoring the services like water and power supply and opening roads, rescued the stranded people from inaccessible areas and also provided them relief. Detailing the measures taken by the government, the chief minister said that besides rescuing 295 people, mostly tourists from Chandratal under sub-zero temperatures, 75,000 other stranded tourists were also rescued safely. Asserting that no special package has been given by the Centre so far, Sukhu announced that the damages due to the monsoon would be borne by the state government and a special package would be introduced. He added that the calamity in Himachal Pradesh was declared a state disaster and also urged the Centre to declare the devastation a national disaster, similar to the Kedarnath tragedy. The chief minister said that the Congress MLAs have donated one month's salary towards the Aapada Rahat Kosh, a state disaster relief fund, while employees have donated a day's salary. Several state governments and individuals have donated funds and even students have come forward for help but the BJP MLAs are yet to donate their salary, he added. India is an example of humanity and betterment in the world. Every Indian must do their work with full efficiency in the development of the country. You must decide how to complete their work in a limited time frame. Everyone must obey the orders of seniors, because if you do so then juniors will also do the same with you," said Governor cum Chancellor of universities CP Radhakrishnan as the chief guest on the occasion of 32nd Foundation Day of Vinoba Bhave University, Hazaribag here on Sunday. He further said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi India is going strong in every field in the world. This is because of his dedication towards the country. The Governor further said that if every Indian explores one's full talent in their field then India will achieve the top three position in the world economy. The interim vice chancellor cum commissioner of Chotanagpur Range Suman Catherin Kispotta welcomed all guests through her speech. She said that this is a matter of pride for the university that the Governor accepted the invitation and to present here as chief guest. The registrar of the university Kaushlendra Kumar detailed the achievements of the university during last year. He said we have started new courses in the university campus along with 22 post graduate departments. The university authorities also honoured 21 retired teachers and non -teaching staff, who retired from September 2022 to September 2023. The programme was anchored by Kedar Singh and Subodh Singh Shaivgeet. The university authority honoured the Governor cum Chancellor by showl and memento, the university authority also honoured the sadar MLA Manish Jaiswal by showl and memento also. The vote of thanks was given by Dean Students Welfare Mithlesh Kumar Singh. Saras Jain said we have with us qualified homeopathic doctors and Acharya for Ayurveda here. The Jain Samaj had done outstanding services to humanity in the Covid pandemic when it had distributed delicious food for 51 days without asking for any help from the administration. Delhi Mayor Dr Shelly Oberai on Monday said municipal hospitals, dispensaries and maternity centres will be refurbished a as part of a plan to revamp Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD)-run medical facilities. Addressing a press conference at the Civic Centre, Oberoi said that for improving civic medical infrastructure, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) will use funds from the corpus of `117 crore `54 crore under the capital head and `63 crore under the revenue head it has received from the Delhi Government. Funds received under the capital head will be used in 491 projects, including the infrastructure revamp of seven big hospitals under the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), a civic-run medical college and primary healthcare centres. The mayor said that under the AAP-led Municipal Corporation of Delhi, a good healthcare model will be established in the civic body, as has been in the Delhi government under the leadership of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Without naming anyone, she alleged that previous governments in the municipal corporation in the last 15 years, did not do anything to improve the medical infrastructure of civic hospitals, as their intention was not right when they were in power. The funds received under the capital head will be used for revamping Hindu Rao Hospital and the medical college it is attached to, Swami Dayanand Hospital and Rajan Babu Institute of Pulmonary Medicine and Tuberculosis, among other facilities, she said. From the funds received under the revenue head, medical facilities will be augmented at various hospitals like Mata Gujri Hospital and Kasturba Hospital, the largest maternity care hospital under the MCD, the mayor said. Doha, Sep 18 (UNI) Qatar has informed the United States and Iran that $6 billion in unfrozen Iranian funds have been transferred to bank accounts in Doha in connection to a prisoner swap deal between the two countries, Reuters reported on Monday, citing sources familiar with the matter. Earlier in the day, the Iranian Foreign Ministry said that the prisoner exchange between Tehran and Washington would take place on September 18. "Both parties have been notified by Qatar that all $6 billion has been transferred from Switzerland to bank accounts in Qatar," the source told the news agency. A Qatari plane with five US citizens, who were previously detained in Iran, and their two relatives on board is ready to take off to deliver them to Doha, the source also said. Last week, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi said that Tehran would spend $6 billion in funds to be released following the prisoner exchange agreement with the United States wherever the country considers necessary. Earlier that week, a US State Department spokesperson confirmed to Sputnik that Secretary of State Antony Blinken had signed a waiver advancing the prisoner exchange deal with Iran that lifted a hold on $6 billion of Iranian funds, which would be moved from bank accounts in South Korea to Qatar. The US authorities also said that Tehran would be able to spend the fund on humanitarian needs only, while the US would control the spending process. UNI/SPUTNIK AKS On the first death anniversary of Ankita Bhandari the Uttarakhand Congress reiterated its demand for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) investigation into her alleged murder. Interacting with the media persons at the headquarters of State Congress, the party vice president Surya Kant Dhasmana said on Monday that people of the State want that the truth should come out in the heinous crime and it can be done only by a CBI inquiry monitored by a sitting judge of the High Court. He said that the State government and the BJP are engaged in shielding the VIP, the mention of which was made by Ankita in her last chat. Dhasmana said that everyone knows that Ankita was murdered by Pulkit Arya whose family was associated with the BJP and RSS. Making reference to a recent letter by the director general of the Agriculture department in which he sought information from all chief agriculture officers about the procurement of agriculture tools, manure and seeds, the Congress leader said that the letter proves that the directorate is unaware of the purchases made in the districts. He claimed that a major scam will get unearthed if investigation of manure, seeds and equipment is done. He said that many complaints of irregularity in the agriculture department are being received. Dhasmana said that the dengue has assumed epidemic proportions in the State and the health department is hiding the real data of patients. He said that the Health minister Dhan Singh Rawat is making lofty claims on government efforts to control dengue but the fact is that large numbers of patients are not getting admissions in the hospitals of the State. He said that the poor patients are bearing the brunt of the disease. Dhasmana said that the jumbo pack of platelets is very costly and is out of the reach of poor patients. Dhasmana said that he will try to help the poor patients with the help of Hans foundation, IMA and his Devbhoomi Manav Sansadhan trust | A minor boy and his minor sister died after their kutcha house collapsed on them on Sunday night in Kirsia village in the Subeha police station area of Barabanki. The childrens grandparents were also injured in the accident. Additional Superintendent of Police Akhilesh Narayan Singh said that in the accident, the brother-sister duo, Fian (8), his sister Samaira (6), grandfather, Haleem, and grandmother, Nasreen, got buried under the debris. He said that villagers made significant efforts to pull them out, but unfortunately, Fian and Samaira succumbed to their injuries. Their grandparents were rushed to the Community Health Centre, from where Haleem was referred to the district hospital, while Nasreen was currently undergoing treatment. Meanwhile, in separate incidents in Siddharthnagar and Budaun, five children reportedly died from drowning on Monday, the police said. A State level Colloquium on Protecting Child Rights: Legal Perspective and Training was organized by Jharkhand State Legal Services Authority (Jhalsa), Ranchi, in association with the Department of Women, Child Development and Social Security, Govt of Jharkhand; Kailash Satyarthi Childrens Foundation and Bachpan Bachao Andolan at Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Auditorium at Judicial Academy on Sunday (September 17). Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Judge, Supreme Court of India & Executive Chairman, NALSA was the Chief Guest of the event. Justice Sanjaya Kumar Mishra, Chief Justice, High Court of Jharkhand cum Patron-in-Chief, JHALSA was the Guest of Honour at the event. The Colloquium was also attended by Justice S. Chandrashekhar, Justice Sujit Narayan Prasad, Justice Rongon Mukhopadhyay and others Judges of High Court of Jharkhand. The inaugural Address was delivered Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, wherein he said that Children are the future of the nation and their rights must be safeguarded to install them to their fullest vigour, but unfortunately India and many other countries faces some challenges in this regard, there is a need to address these challenges, head on and act collectively to protect and upheld their rights. Justice Kaul emphasized that every child regardless of gender, caste, social structure they belong to deserves to be treated with dignity, respect and equality. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child which India ratified in 1992, serves as a patron for protecting childs rights. Consequently, Child Rights are protected in constitutional India in several specific laws such as Juvenile Justice Care and Protection Act, the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, Right to Education Act, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act etc. The state has a primary duty to operate in the child's special interest, and practically every area of government policy from education to public health affects children to some degree or the other. Justice Kaul quoted K Ramaswamis observations that childrens earliest experiences significantly influence their education, hence the focus should be their immediate growth and development of the child. Justice Kaul further stressed that one of the pressing issues is of child labour, according to judicial precedents, millions of children are still employed in hazardous and exploitative labour across India. These children are denied the opportunity to seek education, jeopardizing their future prospects and perpetuating the cycle of poverty. The introductory address was delivered by Justice Sanjaya Kumar Mishra, Chief Justice, High Court of Jharkhand, and cited it as a burning issue by saying that worldwide children are voiceless victims of physical, emotional and sexual violence, and India is not an exception. Delving upon the legal framework he added the enactment of POCSO Act in 2012 and J.J Act in 2015 are watershed Acts in the history of child rights in India. These Acts look after the best interest of the child. Justice Mishra pointed out that that exist two harmful stereotypes with respect to sexual abuse, first that only girl child can be subjected to sexual or physical abuse, and not boy child and secondly that offender are persons not known to the child. Both these stereotypes are wrong and these have to be set aside by the stakeholders who are involved in the implementation of these Acts. The opening Address was delivered by Justice Sujit Narayan Prasad, wherein he laid the foundation of the gathering by saying that Children constitute the nations valuable human resources. The future wellbeing of the nation depends on how its children grow and develop. The great poet Milton said Child Shows the man as morning shows the day. Therefore it is the duty of the society to look after every child with a view to ensuring full development of its personality. Children are the future custodians and torch bearers of the society: they are the messengers of our knowledge, cultural heritage, ideologies and philosophies. The Welcome Address by Justice Rongon Mukhopadhyay, wherein he thanked all the stakeholders for actively participating in the August gathering. Towards the end of the Inaugural ceremony, the Vote of thanks was extended by Justice S. Chandrashekhar Judge, High Court of Jharkhand, to all the participants, delegates, resource persons, dignitaries and volunteers for their august presence. The Uttarakhand Special Task Force (STF) on Monday arrested Deepak Sisodia, an aide of notorious gangster Chhota Rajan and convict in the murder case of journalist J Dey. He was serving a life term and was out on 45-day parole in January 2022 but did not return to Amravati Central Jail on March 8. The police had suspected that he had fled to Nepal, said the STF senior superintendent of police Ayush Agrawal. He said that Sisodia is a native of Haldwani's Jeetpur Negi village in Nainital district. He said that on the complaint of Mumbai police, a case was registered in Haldwani police station in Nainital district under section 224 (resistance or obstruction by a person to his lawful apprehension) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) after Sisodia escaped. The Nainital police had also announced a reward of Rs 25,000 on his arrest. He said that the STF was consistently trying to nab him for over a year. "We arrested Chhota Rajan's aide from Banbasa area of Champawat district along the Indo-Nepal border on Monday morning. We have been making efforts for his arrest for a year. He was suspected to have taken shelter in Nepal. We had received confidential information that he comes to his hometown in Haldwani secretly by crossing the border from Nepal. We received information about his plan to visit Haldwani on Sunday night. Considering this, a team was deployed at Banbasa to nab him," said Agrawal. He claimed that STF arrested Sisodia as soon as he crossed the border in his car near Banbasa railway station. "We will send him to Mumbai soon after completing the necessary procedures," he added. The police arrested Sisodia in 2011 for his involvement in the J Dey murder case on charges of having given the .32 mm US-made revolver to alleged Rajan aide Satish Kalya at Kathgodam near Nainital. The Nainital police had then arrested him and handed him over to Mumbai police, as per the officials. Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has said that the unveiling programme of "Statue of Oneness" in Omkareshwar on 21st September should be organised with full dignity, grandeur and divinity. All the prominent sages and saints of the country participating in the programme should be accorded traditional welcome. In view of the rainy season, the district administration should be especially sensitive and alert regarding the venue and traffic arrangements and do point-wise planning. Chief Minister Chouhan was reviewing the preparations for the unveiling programme of the Statue of Oneness at Ekatm Dham located at Omkareshwar in the office building Samatvain Bhopal. Culture Minister Usha Thakur, Chief Secretary Iqbal Singh Bains attended the meeting virtually. Additional Chief Secretary Agriculture Ashok Varnwal, Principal Secretary Culture Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary Energy Sanjay Dubey and other officers were present in Samatva Bhawan. Indore Divisional Commissioner and Khandwa Collector joined the meeting virtually. Sadhus and saints will be welcomed according to the religious traditions of Kerala Chief Minister Chouhan will welcome the Sadhus and saints as per the religious traditions of Kerala on 21st September at 11 am. After this, offerings will be made in the Vedic Yagya ritual by the Chief Minister and revered saints. On this occasion, along with the performances of dances of Shaiva tradition by artists from across the country, there will be presentation of Panchayatan puja tradition promoted by Acharya by artists of Indian performing styles. CM Chouhan and revered saints will unveil the Statue of Oneness and perform bhoomi and shila puja of Advaita Lok. CM Chouhan and the revered saints will offer floral tributes at the feet of the Statue of Oneness amidst chanting of Vedas and blowing of conch shells by a total of 101 batukas. After this, Chief Minister Chouhan along with saints and dignitaries will leave for Brahmotsav. Saint Vimarsh and Chief Minister's address will be held in Brahmotsav It was informed that Brahmotsav will be held at Siddhavarkoot. In this, Shankar Sangeet Vedochhar, group dance presentation "Shivoham" focused on the sources of Acharya Shankar and release of books based on "Ekatm Dham" and Advaita Yuva Jagran Shivir published by Acharya Shankar Cultural Unity Trust will be done. In the Brahmotsav there will also be a screening of the film "Ekatma Ki Yatra". There will be dialogue of saints and address of Chief Minister Chouhan in the afternoon. In the Brahmotsav there will be a gathering of about 5 thousand saints, sages and dignitaries. Havan is being performed by Vedic priests Before the unveiling of the idol, Vedic ritual worship and 21 Kundiya Havan are being performed by Swami Brahondrananda of Uttarkashi and 32 Sannyasis on Mandhata Parvat under the guidance of Prasthanatray Bhashya Parayan and Dakshinamnaya Shringeri Sharda Peeth by about 300 renowned Vedic Archaks of the country. The unveiling of the Statue of Oneness and the bhoomi and shila pujan of Advaita Lok will be organised under the guidance of Dakshinamnaya Shringeri Sharda Peeth. Pakistans former prime minister Nawaz Sharifs planned return to the country from London on October 21 will not be affected by the Supreme Courts recent judgement on the amendments to the anti-graft laws, his legal team has said. On his return to the country, the 73-year-old Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party supremo will face all cases in respect of the courts, Geo News reported on Sunday. In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court on Friday scrapped the recent amendments made to anti-graft laws by the previous coalition govt led by the PML-N and restored corruption cases against public office holders, including Nawaz, who was one of the major beneficiaries of the changes. Nawaz, who is set to return on October 21, ending his self-exile in London, where he has lived since 2019, may see the restoration of a Toshakhana case against him. In 2020, an accountability court declared him a proclaimed offender in the Toshakhana vehicles case. Sharif is accused of obtaining luxury cars from the treasury house by paying just 15 per cent of the price of these vehicles. Nawaz left for London in November 2019 after the Lahore High Court granted him four-week permission allowing him to go abroad for his treatment. But he never returned to Pakistan where he was convicted of corruption and jailed. He was convicted in the Al-Azizia Mills and Avenfield corruption cases in 2018. He was serving a seven-year imprisonment at Lahores Kot Lakhpat jail in the Al-Azizia Mills case before he was allowed to proceed to London in 2019 on medical grounds. In a crucial meeting of the PML-N on Saturday, the partys legal team gave Nawaz Sharif a comprehensive briefing in the wake of the apex courts verdict striking down amendments to accountability laws, the Geo News reported. The team comprising former law minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, advocate Amjad Pervez, and PML-N Deputy Secretary General Attaullah Tarar gave Nawaz legal clearance for his return to Pakistan. No case is a hindrance in his way of return to Pakistan. Nawaz Sharifs return date remains the same. The date has been announced. He is coming back on the same date, Tarar said. Former law minister Azam, who is currently in London, said upon returning Nawaz will face all cases in respect of the courts. He will appear in the courts smiling and he will be vindicated on merit. There is no substance in the false cases made against him...We will not attack courts and we will not do anything to evade the course of justice as was seen recently. There will be open hearings and the truth will be established, he said, taking an apparent dig at Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan. According to the Geo News report, Nawaz has appointed Azam to work out the legal procedures for his smooth return. Quoting sources, the report said Pakistans former Attorney General Advocate Irfan Qadir will also be part of Nawazs legal team that will execute follow-up actions.The team of counsel would take the ultimate decision on Nawazs bail after consultations this week, the report said, quoting sources. The coalition government led by Nawaz had made several changes in the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) ordinance of 1999 through the National Accountability (Second Amendment) Act 2022, which PTI chief Khan challenged in June last year. These included reducing the term of the NAB chairman and prosecutor general to three years, limiting the anti-graft watchdogs jurisdiction to cases involving over Rs 500 million, and transferring all pending inquiries, investigations, and trials to the relevant authorities. Besides Nawaz, the restoration of the old anti-graft law by the Supreme Court may have implications of varying levels for several politicians, including former president Asif Ali Zardari and ex-premiers Shehbaz Sharif, Yusuf Raza Gilani, Raja Pervez Ashraf and Shahid Khaqan Abbasi. They all benefited under the new law as the trial of those accused with less than Rs 500 million of alleged corruption was stopped. After the amendments were made, dozens of cases against powerful politicians and their relatives were sent back by the NAB courts last year. (): The Israeli government has complained to Germany after the German ambassador attended a high-profile Supreme Court hearing last week looking at the legality of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus judicial overhaul, an Israeli diplomatic official said Monday. The complaint, sent at the order of Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, sparked a rare diplomatic spat between the two allies, with German leaders defending their ambassador against the criticism. The Israeli official, speaking on condition of anonymity because he was discussing behind-the-scenes diplomacy, said that Israel had relayed its dismay through diplomatic channels, including the Israeli Embassy in Berlin. This was a decision taken by the highest figure in the ministry, he added. Cohen is a close ally of Netanyahu. Justice Qazi Faez Isa was sworn in as the 29th Chief Justice of Pakistan on Sunday.His term as Chief Justice in the Supreme Court will span 13 months, ending on October 25, 2024. Justice Isa, 63, was sworn in by President Arif Alvi at a ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad, in the presence of caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar, Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, ministers and other senior officials among others. Justice Isa was flanked by his wife, Sarina Isa, as the notification of his appointment was read out. This was a deviation from the previous practice, as normally close family members, including spouses, are seated in the front row during such oath-taking ceremonies. Sarina made headlines when TV channels showed her walking with the help of a stick to face a probe by tax authorities in a case filed in 2019. It was alleged that properties belonging to Justice Isas wife, Sarina, in London were actually his own. Later, both Justice Isa and his wife were exonerated after backlash from the legal fraternity, who accused the then Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government led by Imran Khan of targeting the judge for delivering verdicts against the establishment in some cases. Justice Isa is considered independent-minded and his 2019 judgment targeting the powerful establishment over a sit-in by a religious party at Faizabad, paralysing the city, landed him in trouble. A case of alleged corruption was filed against him, but later it was rejected by the Supreme Court. His appointment comes at a time when Pakistan is facing serious constitutional, legal, and political challenges. His main test will be holding the general election within 90 days of the dissolution of Parliament on August 9. Another challenge is related to a case challenging the trial of civilians by military courts. However, the biggest task for the Chief Justice may be is to restore the prestige and neutrality of the apex court. at a time when his predecessor, Umar Ata Bandial, is accused of having a soft corner for former prime minister Imran Khan.Also, Justice Isa faces a mountain of over 56,000 pending cases in the Supreme Court. Some of those cases were filed years ago and have not been heard so far. Congratulating the newly-appointed top judge, National Assembly Speaker Raja Pervez Ashraf congratulated Justice Isa and expressed hoped that the institutions providing justice under his leadership will work in a more active manner. For the rule of law and provision of justice in the country, it is necessary for the legislature, judiciary and executive to work together, he said. Justice Isa was born on October 26, 1959, in Quetta. His father, Qazi Muhammad Isa, was a prominent member of the movement for the establishment of Pakistan and a close associate of Muhammad Ali Jinnah. He completed his primary education in Quetta and his A and O levels at Karachi Grammar School. He then pursued law studies in London, where he completed the bar professional examination. Justice Isa began his legal career as an advocate in the Balochistan High Court in 1985 and later became an advocate of the Supreme Court in 1998. He practised law in the Balochistan High Court and the Supreme Court for over 27 years before being appointed as the Chief Justice of the Balochistan High Court in 2009. He served as chief justice of the high court from 2009 to 2014 and was elevated to the Supreme Court in 2014. Justice Isa has recently been in the spotlight for his protest against the non-implementation of the Supreme Court Practice and Procedure Act, which was created during the Shahbaz Sharif era. As a form of protest, he has refrained from hearing any cases for the past five months and has chosen to work in his chambers instead. A UN conference voted Sunday to list the ancient West Bank city of Jericho as a World Heritage Site in Palestine, a decision likely to anger Israel, which controls the territory and does not recognise a Palestinian state. Jericho is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities on earth, and is in a part of the Israeli-occupied West Bank that is administered by the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority. The decision was taken at a meeting of the UN World Heritage Committee in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, under the auspices of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, UNESCO. Israel quit UNESCO in 2019, accusing it of being biased against it and of diminishing its connection to the Holy Land. Israel also objected to UNESCOs acceptance of Palestine as a member state in 2011. But Israel remains a party to the World Heritage Convention, and it sent a delegation to the meeting in Riyadh. Israel captured the West Bank, along with Gaza and east Jerusalem, in the 1967 Mideast war. The Palestinians want all three territories for their future state. Israel views the West Bank as the biblical and cultural heartland of the Jewish people. There have been no serious or substantive peace negotiations in over a decade, and Israel is currently led by the most nationalist and religious government in its history, making any move toward Palestinian statehood nearly unimaginable. The modern city of Jericho is a major draw for tourism to the Palestinian territories, both because of its historical sites and proximity to the Dead Sea. In 2021, the Palestinian Authority unveiled major renovations to one of the largest mosaics in the Middle East, in a Jericho palace dating back to the 8th century. The Coca-Cola Company is one of the worlds most recognized brands. Founded in 1886, the company today is vastly different from its creator's original intent. The original formula was invented by John Stith Pemberton as a health drink, energy boost, and patent medicine following his time in the Civil War. The name is derived from two of the original ingredients coca leaves and kola nuts, although those ingredients are not used today, and was intended to be sold in pharmacies. Pemberton sold his formula and brand in 1889 to Asa Griggs Candler who then embarked on a nationwide advertising campaign. By 1895 Coca-Cola was being sold in every state in the union and it wouldnt be long before the beverage was being enjoyed worldwide. By 1889 the company was operating under a franchised distribution system that is still in effect today. Today, the Coca-Cola Company primarily makes syrups that are shipped to bottler/distributors who command exclusive territories. The Coca-Cola Company retains ownership of the largest US bottler, Coca-Cola Refreshments but there are many others around the world. Coca-Cola Femsa, of which The Coca-Cola Company owns 28%, is located in Mexico and is the worlds largest bottler of Coca-Cola The Coca-Cola Company is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, and operates as a beverage company worldwide with sales in over 200 countries. The company manufactures, markets, and sells various nonalcoholic beverages and has expanded well beyond soda and pop. After years of expansion and acquisitions, The Coca-Cola Company is represented in verticals from sparkling soft drinks to flavored water, enhanced water, sports beverages, juice, dairy, tea, and coffee. Brands under the Coca-Cola umbrella include Fanta, Fresca, Schweppes, Sprite, Dasani, Gold Peak, Minute Maid, Simply, BODYARMOR, FUZE TEA, and Powerade brands. The Coca-Cola Company first went public in 1919 and it began paying a dividend in 1920. The company has raised its dividend every year since 1962 making it a Dividend King. To put the companys growth and scale into perspective, one share of KO purchased at the IPO price of $40 was worth nearly $10 million in 2012 and the stock price has nearly doubled since then. Underwriters of the original IPO received $100,000 worth of shares in compensation for the deal and were able to sell it for $2 billion at that time. The Coca-Cola Company is also a component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average holding its position from 1932 to 1935 and from 1987 to the present. Baghdad, Sep 18 (UNI) A Turkish drone strike in northern Iraq on Sunday killed a senior member and three militants of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), the Counter-Terrorism Service of the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region said in a statement. They were killed at 3:00 p.m. local time (1200 GMT) when a Turkish drone attacked their vehicle on a road in the Chalmir area of Sinjar Mountain, some 120 km west of Nineveh's provincial capital Mosul, the statement said. The Turkish forces frequently carry out ground operations, airstrikes, and artillery bombardments in northern Iraq against the PKK, especially in the Qandil Mountains, the main base of the group. The PKK, listed as a terrorist organisation by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union, has been rebelling against the Turkish government for more than three decades. UNI/XINHUA AKS Martin Marietta Materials, Inc., a natural resource-based building materials company, supplies aggregates and heavy-side building materials to the construction industry in the United States and internationally. It offers crushed stone, sand, and gravel products; ready mixed concrete and asphalt; paving products and services; and Portland and specialty cement for use in the infrastructure projects, and nonresidential and residential construction markets, as well as in the railroad, agricultural, utility, and environmental industries. The company also produces magnesia-based chemicals products; dolomitic lime primarily to customers for steel production and soil stabilization; and cement treated materials. Its chemical products are used in flame retardants, wastewater treatment, pulp and paper production, and other environmental applications. Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. was founded in 1939 and is headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina. 1+ days ago Still thinking about buying 3M for its dividend? Consider this Wall Street analysts typically go into hiding every three months when the long-awaited earnings season kicks off, making them earn their paychecks through long hours of due diligence and financial modeling. This time, you bet they had to dig into 3M Company (NYSE: MMM) and its unusually high potential. With financial titans like BlackRock Inc. (NYSE: BLK) and Goldman Sachs (NYSE: GS) advising their clients and also their own funds to move into undervalued stocks and seek quality Read Article UWM (NYSE:UWMC) pays an annual dividend of $0.40 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 8.02%. UWMC has a dividend yield higher than 75% of all dividend-paying stocks, making it a leading dividend payer. The dividend payout ratio is 800.16%. Payout ratios above 75% are not desirable because they may not be sustainable. Based on EPS estimates, UWMC will have a dividend payout ratio of 111.11% in the coming year. This indicates that the company may not be able to sustain their current dividend. Read our dividend analysis for UWMC. Annaly Capital Management Inc. is one of the largest mortgage real estate investment trusts in the United States. The company is based in Maryland, with a principal office in New York City. Annaly primarily borrows money via short-term repurchase agreements and reinvests the proceeds in asset-backed securities. Annaly is a mortgage real estate investment trust that earns profits from the difference between the interest it makes from its investments and the interest it pays on its borrowings, enhanced by leverage. In 1997, Michael A.J. Farrell and Wellington Denahan established Annaly to capitalize on the burgeoning real estate sector. In October 2012, Wellington Denahan assumed the CEO role; in 2013, Annaly acquired CreXus Investment for $996 million. In 2016, the firm completed the purchase of Hatteras Financial for $1.5 billion in cash and stock. In 2017, Annaly sold its Pingora servicing subsidiary, and in March 2020, David L. Finkelstein was appointed chief executive officer and board member. Later that year, Steven F. Campbell was named president of the company. Annaly's investments are divided into four distinct groups: agency credit, residential credit, commercial credit and middle market lending. These investments include mortgage-backed securities, non-agency residential mortgage assets, mortgage servicing rights, residential mortgage loans, agency commercial mortgage-backed securities, corporate debts, credit risk transfer securities and other commercial real estate investments. Annaly Capital Management Inc. has a strong track record of financial performance and is an S&P 400 component. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 52.80% of the company's stock, and EMG Holdings L.P., Bank of Montreal Canada, MetLife Investment Management LLC, Rhumbline Advisers, Yousif Capital Management LLC and CIBC World Market Inc. have all taken positions in Annaly Capital Management. 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. 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. 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. 5 Wall Street research analysts have issued "buy," "hold," and "sell" ratings for CEMEX in the last year. There are currently 3 hold ratings and 2 buy ratings for the stock. The consensus among Wall Street research analysts is that investors should "hold" CX shares. A hold rating indicates that analysts believe investors should maintain any existing positions they have in CX, but not buy additional shares or sell existing shares. View CX analyst ratings or view top-rated stocks. Bank of America has a rich history dating back to 1800 and even earlier. It was begun by immigrants as a group of separate and unrelated banks that, over the years, merged and grew together. One such is the Bank of Italy which was founded in 1904 by Amadeo Giannini to serve Italian immigrants that were facing discrimination. He later buys out the Banca de America e de Italia (Bank of America and Italy) which was also located in San Francisco. Over the years additional mergers and changes in Federal banking legislation, as well as the boom brought on by WWI and then WWII, helped boost the bank to national prominence. Things turned sour, however, in 1998 with a major bond default that led to yet another merger, this time with Charlotte, NC-based Nations Bank to officially become the Bank of America that exists today. At the time, the merger was the largest bank merger in history and the company has only grown in the time since. Other additions to the new Bank of America include MBNA (a major credit card operator), Fleet Boston (then the US 7th largest and one of its oldest banks), and Merril Lynch, now Merril, which was added to the group in 2008 to provide an investment banking branch. Together the company dominates as one of the Big Four Banks in America. Bank of America lays claim to nearly 11% of all US deposits which ranks in line with its peer group and Bank of America Securities is listed as the worlds 3rd largest investment bank. Today, Bank of America Corporation provides banking and financial services for individuals, small businesses, institutions, corporations, and governments worldwide. The bank operates in three segments Consumer Banking, Global Wealth & Investment Management, and Global Banking bringing in a combined revenue greater than $90 billion in 2022. As of 2022, Bank of America serves approximately 67 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 4,200 retail financial centers. The bank also operates more than 16,000 ATMs and digital banking platforms with approximately 41 million active users. Its Consumer Banking segment offers traditional banking and investment products for retail clients. These range from deposit accounts to savings, credit cards, consumer loans, and IRAs. The Global Wealth & Investment Management segment offers investment and wealth management solutions including, brokerage, banking, and trust and retirement products. The Global Banking segment provides lending products and services, including commercial loans and leases for businesses of all varieties. The Global Markets segment offers market-making, clearing, settlement, and custody services, as well as risk management, derivatives, and FX exchange services. New Delhi, Sep 18 (UNI) No relief for Jharkhand Chief Minister, Hemant Soren, with the Supreme Court on Monday refuses to entertain his petition and asked him to approach the Jharkhand High Court first to challenge the ED summons in connection with an alleged illegal mining case. A two-judge Bench of the Apex Court, headed by Justice Aniruddha Bose & Bela M Trivedi, asked Mr Soren's lawyer, Mukul Rohatgi to approach the Jharkhand HC for relief first. "Why don't you (Soren) go to high court? First you go there," Justice Bose said, and refused to entertain Soren's petition. Mr Soren in his petition filed in August last week, before the Supreme Court said that there is an attempt to tarnish his image, and also the reputation of democratically elected govt and people of the state. Mr Soren sought quashing of the issuance of sumnons against him in the money laundering case, besides other prayers. The Jharkhand CM, had skipped twice the questioning of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the money laundering case. The ED has been investigating two major money laundering cases in the state. The first case is related to illegal mining in the state. The agency questioned the CM in connection with the mining case on November 17 last year. The second case pertains to an alleged land scam in the state capital. Thirteen individuals, including IAS officer C Ranjan, and two businessmen, have already been arrested in connection with the alleged land. The ED on August 08, had summoned Mr Soren for questioning on August 14 at its zonal office in Ranchi to record his statement under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. Mr Soren had, however, did not appear before the agency and termed it as "politically motivated" case. Soren had questioned the summons and asked the agency to withdraw it. The agency, however, rejected Mr Soren's claims and issued a second summons to Soren, asking him to appear before it yesterday. UNI SM GNK Investec Group provides various financial products and services in the United Kingdom, South Africa, and internationally. The company offers wealth and investment products and services, including portfolio management, wealth management, fund management, and custody related services; discretionary wealth management, financial planning, stockbroking, and investment advisory services for private clients, charities, and trusts. It also provides specialist banking products and services comprising private banking products, such as property finance, lending, savings, foreign exchange, private capital, life assurance and investment products, and transactional banking services; deposit raising, treasury solutions, and investment related activities; corporate and investment banking products, including lending, advisory, hedging, cash deposits and savings, and equity placement services to government, institutions, corporates, private equity, and intermediaries. Investec Group was founded in 1974 and is based in Sandton, South Africa. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, operates as a cruise company in North America, Europe, the Asia-Pacific, and internationally. The company operates the Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands. It offers itineraries ranging from three days to a 180-days calling on various locations, including destinations in Scandinavia, Russia, the Mediterranean, the Greek Isles, Alaska, Canada and New England, Hawaii, Asia, Tahiti and the South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand, Africa, India, South America, the Panama Canal, and the Caribbean. It distributes its products through retail/travel advisor and onboard cruise sales channels, as well as meetings, incentives, and charters. The company was founded in 1966 and is based in Miami, Florida. British American Tobacco p.l.c. is a multinational tobacco company headquartered in London, United Kingdom. Established in 1902, the company has a rich heritage and is one of the world's largest tobacco manufacturers. Its mission is to deliver "a better tomorrow" by offering high-quality tobacco and nicotine products to adult consumers worldwide while ensuring responsible business practices. The company produces and sells cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco and next-generation products (NGPs), including e-cigarettes and tobacco heating products. British American Tobacco's extensive portfolio of well-known brands, such as Lucky Strike, Pall Mall, Dunhill and Rothmans, caters to diverse consumer preferences. With a global reach, British American Tobacco operates in over 180 markets and has a strong presence in developed and emerging economies. Its target market primarily comprises adult smokers and tobacco consumers who seek high-quality products and innovative alternatives. British American Tobacco boasts a highly experienced and diverse leadership team that drives the company's strategic vision. Under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Jack Bowles, the management team combines extensive industry expertise with a focus on innovation and sustainable growth. With over 30 years of experience in the tobacco industry, Bowles has held various senior leadership positions within British American Tobacco before assuming the role of CEO in 2019. He has played a pivotal role in shaping the company's NGP strategy and driving its transformational agenda. British American Tobacco has delivered solid financial performance over the past few years, driven by its global presence and robust brand portfolio. The company's reported revenue has been up for the past several years, and its operating profit margin has been stable at around 40%, highlighting its ability to generate strong profitability. Over the years, British American Tobacco has shown resilience in the face of regulatory challenges and changing market dynamics. The company has managed its debt levels effectively, maintaining a healthy balance sheet and a strong credit rating. Its price-to-earnings ratio and price-to-book ratio indicate that the company's stock appears undervalued compared to its peers. The factors driving the company's valuation include its global market leadership, diversified product portfolio and ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences through its NGP offerings. Recent changes in investor sentiment have been influenced by the company's continued focus on innovation, sustainable practices and its commitment to reducing the health impact of its products. British American Tobacco's stock performance has shown resilience amid broader market fluctuations. Trading volume has remained robust, indicating sustained investor interest in the company. Several factors have contributed to this positive market performance. Firstly, the company's ability to adapt to evolving consumer preferences by investing in NGPs has positioned it to capture a growing market segment. Successful product launches and strategic acquisitions have also boosted investor confidence in British American Tobacco's long-term prospects. British American Tobacco operates in the tobacco industry, which continues to face significant regulatory and social challenges. The industry is subject to strict regulations regarding advertising, packaging, and health warnings aimed at reducing the harm caused by tobacco consumption. This regulatory environment has led to declining smoking rates in many developed countries. In addition to regulatory pressures, the industry faces increasing scrutiny over the health risks associated with smoking. Growing awareness of the harmful effects of tobacco has led to a shift in consumer preferences towards reduced-risk alternatives, such as NGPs. This trend presents both opportunities and challenges for companies like British American Tobacco. Despite these challenges, the tobacco industry remains resilient and continues to generate substantial revenue. The global tobacco market is highly competitive, with key players vying for market share. British American Tobacco competes with other major tobacco companies such as Philip Morris International and Japan Tobacco International. In recent years, British American Tobacco has significantly invested in NGPs, leveraging its technological capabilities and scientific expertise. The company has introduced successful products like Vuse and glo, which have gained traction among consumers seeking alternative nicotine experiences. Expanding its NGP offerings presents a significant growth opportunity for British American Tobacco, particularly as the market for reduced-risk products continues to grow. While British American Tobacco has demonstrated resilience, the company faces several risks and challenges. One of the key challenges is the increasing regulation and restrictions imposed on the tobacco industry. Stricter regulations can impact product development, marketing activities, and consumer demand. The company needs to adapt to these evolving regulatory landscapes while maintaining compliance and finding innovative ways to engage with consumers. Changing consumer preferences and the growing popularity of reduced-risk alternatives pose another challenge. As more consumers switch to NGPs, traditional tobacco sales may decline, impacting British American Tobacco's revenue streams. The company must continue investing in research and development to stay at the forefront of NGP innovation and maintain its competitive position. Additionally, ongoing litigation and legal challenges related to smoking-related health issues present financial and reputational risks. British American Tobacco must effectively manage these risks through robust risk management strategies, transparent communication, and responsible business practices. Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company provides solutions that allow customers to capture, analyze, and act upon data seamlessly in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Asia Pacific, and Japan. It operates in six segments: Compute, HPC & AI, Storage, Intelligent Edge, Financial Services, and Corporate Investments and Other. The company offers general purpose servers for multi-workload computing and workload-optimized servers; HPE ProLiant rack and tower servers; HPE Synergy; and solutions for secondary workloads and traditional tape, storage networking, and disk products, such as HPE Modular Storage Arrays and HPE XP. It also offers HPE Cray, HPE Apollo, and converged edge systems; and HPE Superdome Flex, HPE Nonstop, and HPE Integrity products. In addition, the company provides HPE Aruba product portfolio that includes hardware products, such as Wi-Fi access points, switches, and gateways; HPE Aruba software and services comprising cloud-based management, network management, network access control, analytics and assurance, and location; and professional and support services, as well as as-a-service and consumption models for the intelligent edge portfolio of products. Further, it offers various leasing, financing, IT consumption, and utility programs and asset management services for customers to facilitate technology deployment models and the acquisition of complete IT solutions, including hardware, software, and services from Hewlett Packard Enterprise and others. Additionally, the company provides consultative-led services; HPE Ezmeral Container Platform; HPE Ezmeral Data Fabric; and Hewlett Packard Labs. It serves commercial and large enterprise groups, such as business and public sector enterprises; and through various partners comprising resellers, distribution partners, original equipment manufacturers, independent software vendors, systems integrators, and advisory firms. The company was founded in 1939 and is headquartered in Spring, Texas. Southern Copper Corporation engages in mining, exploring, smelting, and refining copper and other minerals in Peru, Mexico, Argentina, Ecuador, and Chile. The company is involved in the mining, milling, and flotation of copper ore to produce copper and molybdenum concentrates; smelting of copper concentrates to produce blister and anode copper; refining of anode copper to produce copper cathodes; production of molybdenum concentrate and sulfuric acid; production of refined silver, gold, and other materials; and mining and processing of zinc, copper, molybdenum, silver, gold, and lead. It operates the Toquepala and Cuajone open-pit mines, and a smelter and refinery in Peru; and La Caridad, an open-pit copper mine, as well as a copper ore concentrator, a SX-EW plant, a smelter, refinery, and a rod plant in Mexico. The company also operates Buenavista, an open-pit copper mine, as well as two copper concentrators and two operating SX-EW plants in Mexico. In addition, it operates five underground mines that produce zinc, lead, copper, silver, and gold; a coal mine that produces coal and coke; and a zinc refinery. The company has interests in 493,117 hectares of exploration concessions in Peru and Mexico; 239,077 hectares of exploration concessions in Argentina; 30,568 hectares of exploration concessions in Chile; and 7,299 hectares of exploration concessions in Ecuador. Southern Copper Corporation was incorporated in 1952 and is based in Phoenix, Arizona. Southern Copper Corporation operates as a subsidiary of Americas Mining Corporation. Lithium Americas Corp. is a Canadian mining company focused on producing lithium, a key component in rechargeable batteries used in electric vehicles and energy storage systems. The company's primary asset is the Cauchari-Olaroz lithium project in the Jujuy province of Argentina. Lithium Americas also owns a 49% interest in the Thacker Pass lithium project in Nevada, USA. The company was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia. The management team at Lithium Americas is led by Chief Executive Officer and Director Jon Evans, who has been with the company since 2015. Evans has extensive experience in the mining industry, having previously served as the CEO of Arizona Mining and as a senior executive at various mining companies. Other key management team members include Chief Operating Officer John Kanellitsas and Chief Finacial Officer Eduard Epshtein. In 2021, the company announced the appointment of Eduardo Machuca as the new Chief Financial Officer, further strengthening the company's commitment to financial responsibility and sustainability. Lithium Americas has seen strong revenue growth, increasing total revenue over the past several years. However, the company has yet to achieve profitability, reporting a yearly net loss since its inception. Lithium Americas has a strong balance sheet, with assets overpowering liabilities sufficiently. Lithium Americas is valued at a price-to-book ratio slightly below the industry average. However, the company's price-to-earnings ratio is currently negative due to the lack of profitability, making it difficult to compare to industry peers. Lithium Americas' stock has seen significant volatility in recent years, with share prices ranging from a low of $2.05 in March 2020 to a high of $38.94 in January 2021. The company has a market capitalization of approximately $3.5 billion. The lithium mining industry has grown significantly in recent years due to the increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles and energy storage systems. However, the industry is also facing challenges related to regulatory and political issues, particularly in countries with significant lithium reserves. The industry is highly competitive, with several large mining companies dominating the market, including Albemarle, SQM, and Ganfeng Lithium. Lithium Americas has several potential growth opportunities, including developing its Cauchari-Olaroz and Thacker Pass lithium projects. The company is also exploring new partnerships and collaborations to expand its reach in the lithium mining industry. In addition, Lithium Americas is focused on sustainable mining practices and has invested in technology and innovation to minimize its environmental impact. Lithium Americas faces several potential risks and challenges, including fluctuations in commodity prices, regulatory and political uncertainty, and competition from other mining companies. The company also faces risks related to environmental and social impact, particularly in the areas where its mining projects are located. However, Lithium Americas has firmly committed to sustainable mining practices and has implemented several initiatives to mitigate these risks. 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. JPMorgan Chase & Co. is the 5th largest bank in the world and the largest in the U.S. The current company is the result of a series of mergers that began in the earliest days of American banking history and include more than 1,200 original banks. The oldest predecessor is The Bank Of The Manhattan Company which was founded in 1799 by Aaron Burr. At the time, The Bank Of The Manhattan Company was the 3rd oldest bank in the U.S. and the 31st oldest in the world. The Chase Manhattan Bank, a precursor to JPMorgan Chase, was later formed when The Bank Of Manhattan Company purchased Chase Bank which was established in 1877. JPMorgan & Co came to life in 1895 in order to finance the United States Steel Corporation. Itself a result of merger, the company also financed other early American businesses as well as aided the federal government by backing a bond offering. It wasnt until the year 2000 and after several more mergers that JPMorgan Chase & Co was born. It will be four more years before the merger with Bank One which is notable because it brings CEO Jamie Dimon into the picture. JPMorgan Chase & Co was instrumental in aiding the US government during the 2008 financial crisis. It backed the accounts of several major banks including Bear Stearns and eventually took over their operations. Today, JPMorgan Chase & Co operates as a financial services company worldwide with operations on every continent and in more than 60 countries. JPMorgan Chase & Co operates through four segments that are Consumer & Community Banking (CCB), Corporate & Investment Bank (CIB), Commercial Banking (CB), and Asset & Wealth Management (AWM). Services are available in branches in 48 of the 50 US states and around the world. Services are available via ATM, online, mobile, and telephone. The CCB segment offers traditional banking services to consumers that include but are not limited to deposits, loans, mortgages, and lines of credit. The CIB segment provides investment banking products and services to businesses, institutions, and governments that range from prime brokerage, insurance, corporate strategy, and access to capital markets, to lending, cross-border financing, and derivative instruments. The CB segment provides financial services for small, medium, and large businesses including commercial real estate banking of all types. The AWM segment provides investment management solutions to institutional and retail investors. This segment also provides retirement products, brokerage, trusts and estates, and investment management products. If you have an event you'd like to list on the site, submit it now! Submit George Orwell knew how the mainstream media and propaganda worked because he was employed by certain organisations at certain points in his career as a journalist. Even someone as esteemed as George Orwell would have been surprised at how his satirical novel 1984 would somehow become a manual for the people controlling society, the media, government and now the internet. If anyone has any form of independent thought these days, they are either labelled as conspiracy theorists, fake news, hate speech or kooks. Pretty much all of these individuals are eventually cancelled, or their reputations thrown in the mud. In an even more sinister manner, weaponised governmental departments and the media are utilised to besmirch any political voice coming from the wilderness. We are now in a situation that means entire swathes of political opposition are erased and cancelled by the powers who control every facet of society and government. Why bother having elections when the opposition has been deplatformed, erased and silenced by the internet overlords who delight in their role of sending entire groups of political voices to the far reaches of their search algorithms, effectively deleting them from all existence. When there is only one, singular so-called liberal and inclusive side making the narrative, it is the antithesis of inclusivity and liberalism. Ronald Reagan was probably right when he said: If fascism ever comes to America, it will come in the name of liberalism. The internet now is a closed echo chamber, a mind prison where conformity and blind belief in lies are rewarded, and anyone who dares to question the official narrative bleated out by the same media organisations ad infinitum are erased or threatened with erasure. Usually, there is no court or judicial review, they are simply erased after the baying mob of automatons has dealt out their guilty verdict. There is absolutely no point in having elections in the Soviet West anymore, simply because the political party who is not in power are cancelled, deplatformed and erased from all media. The Daily Squib saw this shutting down process of the internet in 2014, when it first emerged under the orders of the staunch Marxist Barack Obama. Since then, the internet has been going downhill fast. Is there any hope for those who value freedom and democracy? Well, once its gone, it is nigh on impossible to get it back. With only a few voices left talking about this, and even fewer people aware of what is happening, the silence is deafening. The following companies are subsidiares of Quest Diagnostics: AmeriPath, AmeriPath Cincinnati Inc. (OH), AmeriPath Cleveland Inc. (OH), AmeriPath Consolidated Labs Inc. (FL), AmeriPath Florida LLC (DE), AmeriPath Hospital Services Florida LLC (DE), AmeriPath Inc. (DE), AmeriPath Indianapolis PC (IN), AmeriPath Kentucky Inc. (KY), AmeriPath Lubbock 5.01(A) Corporation (TX), AmeriPath New York LLC (DE), AmeriPath Texas Inc. (DE), AmeriPath Tucson Inc. (AZ), American Medical Laboratories, American Medical Laboratories Incorporated (DE), Associated Clinical Laboratories L.P. (PA), Associated Clinical Laboratories of Pennsylvania L.L.C. (PA), Athena Diagnostics, Athena Diagnostics Inc. (DE), Blueprint Genetics, Blueprint Genetics FZ-LLC (UAE), Blueprint Genetics Inc. (DE), Blueprint Genetics Oy (Finland), California Laboratory Associates, Cape Cod Healthcare - Business, Celera, ClearPoint Diagnostic, Clearpoint Diagnostic Laboratories LLC (TX), Cleveland HeartLab, Cleveland HeartLab Inc. (DE), Clinical Laboratory Partners, Colorado Pathology Consultants P.C. (CO), ConVerge Diagnostic Services, Consolidated DermPath Inc. (DE), DFW 5.01(a) Corporation (TX), DGXWMT JV LLC (DE), Dermatopathology of Wisconsin S.C. (WI), Diagnostic Laboratory of Oklahoma LLC (OK), Diagnostic Pathology Services Inc. (OK), Diagnostic Reference Services Inc. (MD), ExamOne Canada Inc. (New Brunswick), ExamOne LLC (DE), ExamOne World Wide Inc. (PA), ExamOne World Wide of NJ Inc. (NJ), Focus Diagnostics, HemoCue, Hoffman M.D. Associated Pathologists Chartered (NV), Institute for Dermatopathology Inc. (PA), Isabella Street Urban Renewal LLC (NJ), Kailash B. Sharma M.D. Inc. (GA), Kilpatrick Pathology P.A. (NC), LabOne, LabOne LLC (MO), LabOne of Ohio Inc. (DE), Laboratorio de Analisis Biomedicos S.A. (Mexico), Lancet Labs, MACL, Med Fusion LLC (TX), Med fusion, MedPlus, Mid America Clinical Laboratories LLC (IN), Nomad Massachusetts Inc. (MA), Nuclear Medicine and Pathology Associates (GA), Ocmulgee Medical Pathology Association Inc. (GA), Pathology Building Partnership (MD) (gen. ptnrshp.), PeaceHealth Laboratories, PhenoPath Laboratories, PhenoPath Laboratories PLLC (WA), Q Squared Solutions Holdings LLC (DE), Q Squared Solutions Holdings Limited (UK), Quest Diagnostics (Shanghai) Co. Ltd. (China), Quest Diagnostics Brasil Holdings Ltd. (UK), Quest Diagnostics Clinical Laboratories, Quest Diagnostics Clinical Laboratories Inc. (DE), Quest Diagnostics Domestic Holder LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics HTAS India Private Limited (India), Quest Diagnostics Health & Wellness LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics Holdings Incorporated (DE), Quest Diagnostics Holdings Ltd. (UK), Quest Diagnostics Incorporated (MD), Quest Diagnostics Incorporated (NV), Quest Diagnostics India Private Limited (India), Quest Diagnostics Infectious Disease Inc. (DE), Quest Diagnostics International Holdings Limited (UK), Quest Diagnostics International LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics Investments LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics Ireland Limited (Ireland), Quest Diagnostics LLC (CT), Quest Diagnostics LLC (IL), Quest Diagnostics LLC (MA), Quest Diagnostics Massachusetts LLC (MA), Quest Diagnostics Mexico Holding Company Trust (Mexico), Quest Diagnostics Mexico S de RL de CV (Mexico), Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute (CA), Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute Inc. (VA), Quest Diagnostics Receivables Inc. (DE), Quest Diagnostics Subsidiary Holdings Ltd. (UK), Quest Diagnostics TB LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics Terracotta LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics Venture LLC (PA), Quest Diagnostics Ventures LLC (DE), Quest Diagnostics do Brasil Ltda. (Brazil), Quest Diagnostics of Pennsylvania Inc. (DE), Quest Diagnostics of Puerto Rico Inc. (PR), Quest HealthConnect LLC (CA), ReproSource, Reprosource Fertility Diagnostics Inc. (MA), Solstas Lab Partners, Sonora Quest Laboratories LLC (AZ), Specialty Laboratories Inc. (CA), Summit Health, UMass Memorial Medical Center - Anatomic Pathology Outreach Laboratory Business, Unilab Corporation, and Unilab Corporation (DE). Read More Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. provides investor communications and technology-driven solutions for the financial services industry. The company's Investor Communication Solutions segment processes and distributes proxy materials to investors in equity securities and mutual funds, as well as facilitates related vote processing services; and distributes regulatory reports, class action, and corporate action/reorganization event information, as well as tax reporting solutions. It also offers ProxyEdge, an electronic proxy delivery and voting solution; data-driven solutions and an end-to-end platform for content management, composition, and omni-channel distribution of regulatory, marketing, and transactional information, as well as mutual fund trade processing services; solutions for public corporations and mutual funds; data and analytics solutions; SEC filing and capital markets transaction services; registrar, stock transfer, and record-keeping services; and omni-channel customer communications solutions, as well as operates Broadridge Communications Cloud platform that creates, delivers, and manages communications and customer engagement activities. Its Global Technology and Operations segment provides solutions that automate the front-to-back transaction lifecycle of equity, mutual fund, fixed income, foreign exchange and exchange-traded derivatives, order capture and execution, trade confirmation, margin, cash management, clearing and settlement, reference data management, reconciliations, securities financing and collateral management, asset servicing, compliance and regulatory reporting, portfolio accounting, and custody-related services. This segment also offers business process outsourcing services; technology solutions, such portfolio management, compliance, fee billing, and operational support solutions; and capital market and wealth and investment management solutions. The company was founded in 1962 and is headquartered in Lake Success, New York. EMCOR Group, Inc. provides electrical and mechanical construction, and facilities services primarily in the United States and the United Kingdom. It offers design, integration, installation, start-up, operation, and maintenance services related to electrical power transmission, distribution, and generation systems; energy solutions; premises electrical and lighting systems; process instrumentation in the refining, chemical processing, and food processing industries; low-voltage systems, such as fire alarm, security, and process control systems; voice and data communications systems; roadway and transit lighting, signaling, and fiber optic lines; heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, and geothermal solutions; clean-room process ventilation systems; fire protection and suppression systems; plumbing, process, and high-purity piping systems; controls and filtration systems; water and wastewater treatment systems; central plant heating and cooling systems; crane and rigging services; millwright services; and steel fabrication, erection, and welding services. The company also provides building services that cover commercial and government site-based operations and maintenance; facility management, maintenance, and services; outage services to utilities and industrial plants; military base operations support services; mobile mechanical maintenance and services; services for indoor air quality; floor care and janitorial services; landscaping, lot sweeping, and snow removal services; vendor management and call center services; installation and support for building systems; program development, management, and maintenance for energy systems; technical consulting and diagnostic services; infrastructure and building projects; small modification and retrofit projects; and other building services. It offers industrial services to oil, gas, and petrochemical industries. The company was incorporated in 1987 and is headquartered in Norwalk, Connecticut. First Horizon Corporation operates as the bank holding company for First Horizon Bank that provides various financial services. The company operates through three segments: Regional Banking, Specialty Banking, and Corporate. It offers general banking services for consumers, businesses, financial institutions, and governments. The company provides underwriting services for bank-eligible securities and other fixed-income securities by financial subsidiaries; sells loans and derivatives; and offers advisory services. In addition, it offers commercial and business banking for business enterprises, consumer banking, and private client and wealth management services; and capital markets, professional commercial real estate, mortgage warehouse and asset-based lending, franchise and equipment finance, and corporate and correspondent banking. Further, the company provides transaction processing services including check clearing services and remittance processing, credit cards, investment, and sale of mutual fund and retail insurances, as well as trust, fiduciary, and agency services. First Horizon Corporation was founded in 1864 and is headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee. by Paul Braterman When people tell you what they are, believe them. In the 2021 Facebook posting attached below, still available [1], he tells us exactly what he is, and since, in May this year, Martyn Iles became Chief Ministry Officer at Answers in Genesis, the $28 million dollar a year concern that runs Kentuckys Creation Museum and Ark Encounter and has its own private jet, we ought to pay attention. All the more so since the announcement just one month ago that he is now the designated successor to founder and CEO Ken Ham [2]. So here are his answers to the burning questions of our times, given in full to avoid the risk of quote mining, with my own commentary just in case there is any ambiguity about what is being said. And he saves the worst till last, when he explains exactly how it comes about that people disagree with him, and how we should look on such disagreement. The answer to gender identity So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. [Gen 1:27] I share Iles concerns about the use of extreme clinical procedures, but for the very opposite reason. I do not believe in rigid gender roles, and think that people should be free to live as they wish, subject to the rights of others, without the need for mastectomy or castration. Iles, on the contrary, thinks that gender roles are God-given and rigid (more on that below), and that for that very reason people should stick to the roles that they were born for. The answer to sexual orientation And the rib that the Lord God had taken from the man he made into a woman and brought her to the man Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. [Gen 2:22, 24] It is difficult to know what to make of this. How is this even meant to be an answer to someone who feels romantically attracted only to members of their own sex? But I fear that Iles will be unmoved by the observation of homosexual behaviour in numerous animal species, because he does not consider that we share a common origin with them. The answer to racism since [God] himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything. And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth [Acts 17:26] This on the face of it is unexceptionable. All humans share the same deep ancestry and deserve the same respect. However, as so often with Iles, there is a hidden agenda; Answers in Genesis is opposed to any kind of action to compensate groups that have been the victims of racism, on the grounds that such action is itself discriminatory and racist. The answer to abortion God said to them, Be Fruitful and multiply and fill the earth [Gen 1:28] Here as elsewhere (see e.g. the next item) Iles cuts through all the usual arguments by introducing a Bible verse, imposing his own interpretation on it, and using this interpretation to tell us what God wants. No need for further discussion. In this particular case, however, most of us would think that the commandment referred to has been more than fulfilled already. The answer to climate alarmism While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night, shall not cease. [Gen 8:22] Notice the question-begging language. However, he is not just attacking what he regards as excessive concern over the climate crisis, but denying on the strength of this verse that such a crisis could possibly exist in the first place. And this is the verse now quoted on every conceivable occasion by all the major creationist organisations, who are united in their opposition to fossil fuel reduction policies. None of them, however, seem to quote the parallel verse [Gen 9:11]; I establish my covenant with you, that never again shall all flesh be cut off by the waters of a flood, and never again shall there be a flood to destroy the earth. Both verses are very limited in what they promise, the second one explicitly so. Nothing here to promise stable or temperate conditions, or to absolve us of our own responsibilities. Drought and failed harvests play a prominent role in later chapters of Genesis, while in a biblical exhortation to look after what has been provided for us, Leviticus 25:4 says that every seventh year the land itself needs to rest and recover. The answer to abuse Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. [Eph 5:22, 25] This is presented, not merely as the recipe for domestic harmony on Iles terms, but as the answer to abuse, i.e. guidance on how people should behave when such harmony has completely and dangerously broken down. To tell an abusive husband to love his wife may be well-intentioned, though he will probably reply that he really does so already. To tell an abused wife to submit to her husband is to ask her to behave as so many women tragically do; to accept the completely unacceptable, at risk to her happiness, her health, and, all too often, her life. And when Iles says submit, he really does mean submit [3]. The answer to historic wrongs that cannot be undone forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. [Col 3:13] We are dealing here with a question that is the subject of much recent debate. What obligations if any do those of European descent owe to the peoples whom they have abused or enslaved, and whose land they have stolen? The answer according to Iles is very simple. The victims should simply forgive those who have wronged them, and the problem will disappear. I should mention, to put his opinion in context, that Iles is a white Australian [4]. The answer to life For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. [John 3:16] Im not sure how this verse would actually prove useful to anyone faced with major decisions. However, I note that this is the only verse he quotes from the Gospels. It is indeed relatively rare from creationists to quote the Gospels, apart from this one verse, and even rarer for them to quote any of the actual words attributed to Jesus [5]. But how does Martyn Iles describe those who disagree with him? The final section of his post tells us: The contemporary answer for every one of these issues is Cultural Marxism divisive, angry, vengeful rebellion and power-grabbing between warring identity groups. Gods answers bring peace and contentment, if only wed submit to them, and stop running away from them. So, for Iles, disagreement is Marxism, just as for Tim LaHaye it was humanism, and for the creationists of the McCarthy era it was Communism. If we only listened to Gods answers to these questions, all the conflicts between different interest groups would immediately disappear. Any assertions that things may be a little bit more complicated than that are divisive, angry, vengeful rebellion and power-grabbing. Rebellion, of course, is the gravest of all possible sins in his theology. It is the sin of Satan, from which all others follow. But Iles way of looking at it does raise an interesting question. If homosexuals, assertive women, proponents of reparations to historically disadvantaged groups, and those concerned about environmental degradation, are all into the business of power-grabbing, just who is it that they are grabbing power from? *** 1] The Facebook page is here, and I am commenting on the entry for 19 May 2021, screenshot below (fair use claimed), which can also be retrieved by keyword search (Iles is so prolific that I expect some culling is unavoidable. However, the Facebook page, like the Answers in Genesis website, is out of order, difficult to search, and with numerous duplications.) 2] Some of us wondered when Ken Ham took him to his bosom how soon Iles would upstage him, just as Ken Ham, decades ago, upstaged Henry Morris and the Institute for Creation Research, but I dont think we expected things to start happening quite so quickly. It might also be significant that while on the Answers in Genesis website, Iles is described as Chief Ministry Officer of Answers in Genesis, on his own Facebook page Iles describes himself as Answers in Genesis Chief Ministry Officer (USA) Managing Director (Australia). 3] Iles, Facebook, 6th June, A word like independent is a direct assault on Gods design for women A woman who prizes strength in independence is a woman rebelling against her nature. 4] As Iles puts it on his Facebook page, entry for 4th September, [R]econciliation is a once forever act. Warring parties are reconciled through repentance by the one and forgiveness by the other. That is when the past is treated as if it never happened, and a new day dawns. New wrongs may be addressed, but past wrongs may not. The reconciliation movement is far from that model. It is a grievance movement, pouring [sic] over sins of the past, resisting forgiveness. This opposes Gods very nature. 5] One exception is Matthew 25:41, Depart from me, you who are cursed, Freely quoted in connection with the severity of Gods judgement, but never in its context about clothing the naked, visiting prisoners, that kind of thing. The following companies are subsidiares of Yum! Brands: A&W Restaurants, Dragontail Systems, Heartstyles, KFC (Pty) Ltd, KFC Advertising Ltd., KFC Asia ELP Management LLC, KFC Asia Franchise Pte. Ltd. f/k/a Taco Bell Restaurants China-India Pte. Ltd., KFC Asia Holdings LLC f/k/a KFC Asia S.a r.l. f/k/a TB Asia Holdings S.a r.l., KFC Asia Holdings LP, KFC Australia IP Holdings LLC, KFC Canada LLC, KFC Corporation, KFC Europe Holdings S.a.r.l., KFC Europe S.a r.l., KFC France SAS, KFC Holding Co., KFC Holding SAS, KFC Holdings B.V., KFC India Marketing Private Limited, KFC International Holdings II LLC f/k/a KFC International Holdings II S.a r.l., KFC Italy S.r.l., KFC MENAPAK S.a r.l., KFC MENAPAKT FZ-LLC, KFC MENAPAKT Holdings LLC, KFC Menapak LLC, KFC North America LLC f/k/a KFC North America S.a r.l., KFC Operations LLC f/k/a KFC Operations S.a r.l. f/k/a Yum! Finance Holdings IV S.a.r.l, KFC Pacific Holdings Ltd, KFC Real Estate B.V., KFC Restaurants Spain S.L., KFC Russia Holdings I S.a r.l., KFC South Africa Holdings B.V., KFC THC V Ltd, KFC US LLC, Kentucky Fried Chicken (Germany) Restaurant Holding GmbH, Kentucky Fried Chicken (Great Britain) Limited, Kentucky Fried Chicken Canada Company, Kentucky Fried Chicken International Holdings LLC, Kentucky Fried Chicken Limited, Kentucky Fried Chicken Pty. Ltd., Kvantum, Little Sheep, Long John Silver's, Multibranding Pty. Ltd., National Systems LLC, Newcastle Fried Chicken Pty. Ltd., Northside Fried Chicken Pty Limited, Novo BL SAS, Novo Re IMMO SAS, PH Canada Company, PH DIGITAL VENTURES UK LIMITED, PH Digico LLC, PH Europe S.a r.l., PH Mexico LLC f/k/a PH Mexico S.a r.l., PH North America LLC f/k/a PH North America S.a r.l., PH Operations LLC f/k/a PH Operations S.a r.l. f/k/a Yum! 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Ltd., Pizza Hut Asia Pacific Holdings LLC f/k/a Pizza Hut Pacific Holdings LLC f/k/a PH Asia Holdings S.a r.l., Pizza Hut Canada LLC, Pizza Hut Connect LLC, Pizza Hut Delivery Germany GmbH, Pizza Hut ELP Management LLC, Pizza Hut Europe Limited, Pizza Hut Guarantor LLC, Pizza Hut HSR Advertising Limited, Pizza Hut Holdings LLC, Pizza Hut India Marketing Private Limited, Pizza Hut International LLC, Pizza Hut LLC, Pizza Hut MENAPAK Counsulting FZE, Pizza Hut MENAPAK Holdings LLC, Pizza Hut MENAPAK S.a r.l., Pizza Hut MENAPAKT FZ-LLC, Pizza Hut Technology Ventures LLC, Pizza Hut of America LLC, Pizza Pete Franchising LLC, QuikOrder LLC, Restaurant Concepts LLC, Restaurant Holdings Limited, South China Sea Investments LLC, Southern Fast Foods Limited, Suffolk Fast Foods Limited, TB Asia LLC, TB Canada Company, TB Cantina LLC, TB ELP Management LLC, TB International Holdings II LLC f/k/a TB International Holdings II S.a r.l., TB North America LLC f/k/a TB North America S.a r.l., TBA Services LLC, Taco Bell Asia Franchising LLC f/k/a TB Asia S.a r.l., Taco Bell Asia Franchising LP, Taco Bell Canada LLC, Taco Bell Cantina Corp, Taco Bell Corp, Taco Bell Franchise Holder 1 LLC, Taco Bell Franchisor Holdings LLC, Taco Bell Franchisor LLC, Taco Bell Funding LLC, Taco Bell IP Holder LLC, Taco Bell Restaurants Asia Pte. Ltd., Taco Bell UK and Europe Limited f/k/a Yum! Restaurants Limited, Taco Bell of America LLC, The Habit Burger Grill, The Habit Restaurants Inc., The Habit Restaurants LLC, TicTuk Technologies Ltd., Tricon Global Restaurants Inc., YA Company One Pty. Ltd., YCH S.a.r.l., YEB Holdings LLC, YEB III LLC, YRH Holdco Limited, YRI China Franchising LLC f/k/a YRI China Franchising S.a r.l. f/k/a Yum! Finance Holdings V S.a.r.l, YRI China Licensing LLC, YRI Europe S.a.r.l., YRI Global Liquidity S.a.r.l., YRI Investment Company S.a.r.l., YUM! Finance Holdings I Sarl, YUM! Restaurants International MENAPAK Consulting FZE, Yum Connect Australia Pty. Ltd., Yum Connect LLC, Yum Cyprus Limited, Yum HS Holdings LLC, Yum India Technology Solutions Private Limited, Yum Restaurant Services Group LLC, Yum! Asia Franchise Pte Ltd, Yum! Asia Holdings LLC f/k/a Yum! Asia Holdings S.a.r.l, Yum! Australia Equipment Pty. Ltd., Yum! Brands Mexico Holdings II LLC, Yum! China ELP Management LLC, Yum! China Franchising LP, Yum! Europe Holdings LP, Yum! Europe Limited, Yum! Europe Management LLC, Yum! Franchise de Mexico LLC f/k/a Yum! Franchise de Mexico S.a.r.l., Yum! Holdings II Limited, Yum! III (UK) Limited, Yum! International Finance Company f/k/a Yum! International Finance Company S.a.r.l., Yum! KFC Australia Holdings I LLC, Yum! Restaurant Holdings, Yum! Restaurantes do Brasil Ltda., Yum! Restaurants (India) Private Limited, Yum! Restaurants (NZ) Ltd., Yum! Restaurants Asia Pte. Ltd., Yum! Restaurants Australia Pty Limited, Yum! Restaurants Europe Limited, Yum! Restaurants International (MENAPAK) Co. W.L.L. f/k/a Yum! Restaurants International (MENAPAK) Co. S.P.C, Yum! Restaurants International (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Yum! Restaurants International Holdings LLC, Yum! Restaurants International Inc., Yum! Restaurants International Limited, Yum! Restaurants International Ltd. & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft, Yum! Restaurants International Management LLC, Yum! Restaurants International Russia and CIS LLC, Yum! Restaurants International S de RL de CV, Yum! Restaurants Limited f/k/a Yum! MENAPAKT Limited, Yum! Restaurants Marketing Private Limited, Yumsop Pty Limited, and tictuk technologies. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Trane Technologies: 200 PARK INC., ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES ACQUISITION S.A R.L, ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES ASIA PTE. LTD., ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES BORROWER S.C.A., ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES CANADA INC, ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED, ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES LLC, ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES MIDDLE EAST FZE, ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES S.A R.L, ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES SERVICES LIMITED, ARCTIC COOL CHILLERS LIMITED, ARO DE VENEZUELA C.A., Airtec Limited, Amair Limited, Best Matic International Limited, Best Matic Vermogensverwaltungs Gmbh, CALMAC Corp, CLIMATE ETC TECHNOLOGY SERVICES PRIVATE LIMITED, CLUB CAR LLC, Calmac Corp., Cameron International Corporation - Centrifugal Compression Business, Club Car Limited, Comercial Ingersoll-Rand (Chile) Limitada, Compagnie Ingersoll-Rand Sas, Cool Energy Limited, DOSATRON INTERNATIONAL S.A.S., Diasorin International B.V., Dradnats Inc., Ebb Holdings Limited, EcoFactor, FRIGOBLOCK, FRIGOBLOCK GMBH, Filairco Inc., Flowcool Limited, Frigoblock Uk Limited, GPS INDUSTRIES LLC, GPSI HOLDINGS LLC, GPSI LEASING II - ACCORD LLC, GPSI LEASING LLC, Ghh-Rand Schraubenkompressoren Gmbh, Golf Academies Limited, Gpsi Telematics Llc, HASKEL EUROPE LTD., HASKEL FRANCE S.A.S., HASKEL HOLDINGS UK LIMITED, HASKEL INTERNATIONAL LLC, HASKEL SISTEMAS DE FLUIDOS ESPANA S.R.L., Hermann Trane Harrisburg Inc., Hibon Inc., ICS Cool Energy, ICS Cool Energy Limited, INGERSOLL RAND ITS JAPAN LTD., INGERSOLL RAND MAROC S.A R.L, INGERSOLL RAND S.A. DE C.V., INGERSOLL RAND-TRANE ENERGY-SAVING SERVICES (SHANGHAI) CO. LTD., INGERSOLL-RAND (CHANG ZHOU) TOOLS CO. LTD., INGERSOLL-RAND (CHINA) INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING CO. LTD., INGERSOLL-RAND (SHANGHAI) TRADING CO. LTD., INGERSOLL-RAND CHINA LLC, INGERSOLL-RAND COMERCIO E SERVICOS DE MAQUINAS E EQUIPAMENTOS INDUSTRIAIS LTDA., INGERSOLL-RAND DE MEXICO SOCIEDAD DE RESPONSABILIDAD LIMITADA DE CAPITAL VARIABLE, INGERSOLL-RAND DE PUERTO RICO INC., INGERSOLL-RAND INDUSTRIA COMERCIO E SERVICOS DE AR CONDICIONADO AR COMPRIMIDO E REFRIGERACAO LTDA., INGERSOLL-RAND INDUSTRIAL COMPANY B.V., INGERSOLL-RAND INDUSTRIAL SP. Z O.O., INGERSOLL-RAND INDUSTRIAL U.S. INC., INGERSOLL-RAND JAPAN LTD., INGERSOLL-RAND LATIN AMERICA S. DE R.L. DE C.V., INGERSOLL-RAND LUX INVESTMENTS S.A R.L., INGERSOLL-RAND LUXEMBOURG INDUSTRIAL COMPANY S.A R.L., INGERSOLL-RAND MANUFACTURA S. DE R.L DE C.V., INGERSOLL-RAND NY INC., INGERSOLL-RAND PHILIPPINES INC., INGERSOLL-RAND PORTUGAL - SOCIEDADE UNIPESSOAL LDA., INGERSOLL-RAND SALES COMPANY LLC, INGERSOLL-RAND SPAIN S.A., INGERSOLL-RAND U.S. HOLDCO INC., Ics Cool Energy (Sas), Ics Cool Energy Ag, Ics Cool Energy B.V., Ics Cool Energy Gmbh, Ics Cool Energy Investments Limited, Ics Group Holdings Limited, Ics Heat Pumps Limited, Ics Renewable Energy Limited, Ics Servicing Limited, Industrial Chill Servicing Private Ltd., Ingersoll Rand Service Do Brasil Ltda., Ingersoll-Rand (Australia) Ltd., Ingersoll-Rand (China) Investment Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand (Guilin) Tools Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand (Hong Kong) Holding Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand (India) Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Ab, Ingersoll-Rand Air Solutions Hibon Sarl, Ingersoll-Rand Best-Matic Ab, Ingersoll-Rand Beteiligungs Und Grundstucksverwaltungs Gmbh, Ingersoll-Rand Buford Llc, Ingersoll-Rand Charitable Foundation, Ingersoll-Rand Climate Solutions Private Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Club Car S.A.S., Ingersoll-Rand Colombia S.A.S., Ingersoll-Rand Company, Ingersoll-Rand Company Limited (Uk), Ingersoll-Rand Company Of Peru S.A.C., Ingersoll-Rand Company South Africa (Pty) Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Costa Rica S.A., Ingersoll-Rand Croatia D.O.O. Za Trgovinu, Ingersoll-Rand Cz S.R.O., Ingersoll-Rand Equipements De Production S.A.S., Ingersoll-Rand European Holding Company B.V., Ingersoll-Rand Financial Services Corporation, Ingersoll-Rand Financing Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Finland Oy, Ingersoll-Rand Funding Ltd., Ingersoll-Rand Global Holding Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Gmbh, Ingersoll-Rand Holdings B.V., Ingersoll-Rand Holdings Limited, Ingersoll-Rand International (India) Private Limited, Ingersoll-Rand International Finance Limited, Ingersoll-Rand International Holding Llc, Ingersoll-Rand International Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Irish Holdings Unlimited Company, Ingersoll-Rand Italia S.R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Italiana S.P.A., Ingersoll-Rand Korea Holding Llc, Ingersoll-Rand Korea Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Latin America B.V., Ingersoll-Rand Lux Euro Iii Financing S.A R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Lux Holdings Ii Company S.A R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Lux International Holding Company S.A R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Luxembourg Finance S.A., Ingersoll-Rand Luxembourg United S.A R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Machinery (Shanghai) Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Malaysia Co. Sdn. Bhd., Ingersoll-Rand Manufacturing S.R.O., Ingersoll-Rand Netherlands B.V., Ingersoll-Rand Nexia Intelligence Llc, Ingersoll-Rand Polska Sp. Z.O.O., Ingersoll-Rand Rus Llc, Ingersoll-Rand S.A., Ingersoll-Rand Services And Trading Limited Liability Company, Ingersoll-Rand Services Company, Ingersoll-Rand Services Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Singapore Enterprises Pte. Ltd., Ingersoll-Rand South East Asia (Pte.) Ltd., Ingersoll-Rand Superay Holdings Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Svenska Ab, Ingersoll-Rand Technical And Services Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Technical And Services S.A.R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Technologies And Services Private Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Technologies S.R.O., Ingersoll-Rand Tool Holdings Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Trading Gmbh, Ingersoll-Rand Uk Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Ukraine Limited Liability Company, Ingersoll-Rand Vietnam Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Worldwide Capital S.A R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Zimbabwe (Private) Limited, Ir Canada Holdings Ulc, Ir Canada Sales & Service Ulc, Ir France Sas, MILTON ROY (HONG KONG) LIMITED, MILTON ROY (UK) LIMITED, MILTON ROY EUROPA B.V., MILTON ROY EUROPE SAS, MILTON ROY INDUSTRIAL (SHANGHAI) CO. LTD., MILTON ROY LLC, MILTON ROY US PURCHASER INC., Mb Air Systems Limited, Officina Meccaniche Industriali Srl, PERFECT PITCH L.P., Plurifilter D.O.O., Precision Flow Systems, Prime Air Limited, Pt Ingersoll-Rand Indonesia, Pt Trane Indonesia, R&O Immobilien Gmbh, REFTRANS S.A., STANDARD CENTENNIAL PROPERTY LLC, Shanghai Ingersoll-Rand Compressor Limited, Societe Trane Sas, Spanashview Unlimited Company, Standard Compressors Inc., Standard Trane Insurance Company, Standard Trane Insurance Ireland Designated Activity Company, Standard Trane Warranty Company, T.I. Solutions (Israel) Ltd., THE TRANE COMPANY, THERMO KING (HONG KONG) COMPANY LIMITED, THERMO KING (SHANGHAI) CO. LTD., THERMO KING DE PUERTO RICO INC., THERMO KING PUERTO RICO MANUFACTURA INC., THERMO KING RODAMIENTOS S.L., THERMO KING SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD., THERMO KING SVC INC., TK PUERTO RICO AIRE INC., TK PUERTO RICO COMERCIAL INC., TK PUERTO RICO ENSAMBLAJE INC., TK PUERTO RICO FABRICACION INC., TK PUERTO RICO LOGISTICA INC., TK PUERTO RICO OPERACIONES INDUSTRIALES INC., TK PUERTO RICO PRODUCCION INC., TK PUERTO RICO SOLUCIONES CLIMATICAS INC., TK PUERTO RICO TECNOLOGIAS INC., TRANE (EUROPE) LIMITED, TRANE AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS AND SERVICE CO. LIMITED, TRANE BRANDS INC., TRANE CENTRAL AMERICA INC., TRANE DOMINICANA S.R.L., TRANE ENERGY CHOICE LLC, TRANE ENERGY SERVICES LLC, TRANE HOLDING LIMITED, TRANE JAPAN LTD., TRANE KOREA INC., TRANE S.A. DE C.V., TRANE SERVICEFIRST C.A., TRANE SERVICES LIMITED, TRANE SINGAPORE ENTERPRISES PTE. LTD., TRANE SISTEMAS INTEGRALES S. DE R.L. DE C.V., TRANE SYSTEMS SOLUTIONS OF PANAMA INC., TRANE THERMO KING (SHANGHAI) ENTERPRISE MANAGEMENT CO. LTD., TRANE THERMO KING PTY LTD, TWENTYTHREEC LLC, Thermo King Container Temperature Control (Suzhou) Corporation Ltd., Thermo King Container-Denmark A/S, Thermo King Corporation, Thermo King European Manufacturing Limited, Thermo King India Private Limited, Thermo King Ireland Limited, Thermo King Services Limited, Thermo King Trading Company, Thermo King Transportkoeling B.V., Tm Air Conditioning Sdn. Bhd., Trane (Ireland) Limited, Trane (Schweiz) Gmbh / Trane (Suisse) S.A.R.L., Trane (Thailand) Limited, Trane Air Conditioning Products Limited, Trane Air Conditioning Systems (China) Co. Ltd., Trane Airconditioning Pte. Ltd., Trane Aire Acondicionado S.L., Trane Bermuda Ltd., Trane Bvba, Trane Canada Lp, Trane Canada Ulc, Trane China Holdings Limited, Trane Climate Manufacturing S.R.L., Trane Cr Spol Sro., Trane De Argentina S.A., Trane De Chile S.A., Trane De Colombia S.A., Trane Deutschland Gmbh, Trane Distribution Pte Ltd, Trane Do Brasil Industria E Comercio De Productos Para Condicionamento De Ar Ltda., Trane Egypt Llc, Trane Europe Holdings B.V., Trane Export Llc, Trane Finance Sprl, Trane Foundation Of New York, Trane France Sas, Trane Gmbh, Trane Gp Inc., Trane Grid Services Llc, Trane Hellas S.A., Trane Holding Co., Trane Holdings Company Yk, Trane Hungary Kft, Trane Inc., Trane Inc. Of Delaware, Trane India Ltd., Trane International Inc., Trane Ip Inc., Trane Italia S.R.L, Trane Klima Ticaret As, Trane Malaysia Sales & Services Sdn. Bhd., Trane Puerto Rico Llc, Trane Romania S.R.L., Trane S.A., Trane S.A.E., Trane Support Sas, Trane Sweden Ab, Trane Taiwan Distribution Ltd., Trane U.S. Inc., Trane Vidalia Llc, Trane Vietnam Services Company Limited, Tricool Thermal Limited, Tsi Anstalt Ltd., World Standard Ltd., and Zeks Compressed Air Solutions Llc. Read More Owens Corning engages in manufacture and sale of insulation, roofing, and fiberglass composite materials in the United States, Canada, Europe, the Asia Pacific, Latin America, and internationally. It operates in three segments: Composites, Insulation, and Roofing. The Composites segment manufactures, fabricates, and sells glass reinforcements in the form of fiber; and glass fiber products in the form of fabrics, non-wovens, and other specialized products. Its products are used in building structures, roofing shingles, tubs and showers, pools, decking, flooring, pipes and tanks, poles, electrical equipment, and wind-energy turbine blades. This segment sells its products directly to parts molders, fabricators, and shingle manufacturers. The Insulation segment manufactures and sells thermal and acoustical batts, loosefill insulation, spray foam insulation, foam sheathing and accessories under the Owens Corning PINK, and FIBERGLAS brands; and glass fiber pipe insulation, energy efficient flexible duct media, bonded and granulated mineral wool insulation, cellular glass insulation, and foam insulation under the FOAMULAR, FOAMGLAS, and Paroc brand names used in construction applications. This segment sells its products primarily to the insulation installers, home centers, lumberyards, retailers, and distributors. The Roofing segment manufactures and sells laminate and strip asphalt roofing shingles, oxidized asphalt materials, and roofing components used in residential and commercial construction, and specialty applications, as well as synthetic packaging materials. This segment sells its products through distributors, home centers, lumberyards, retailers, and contractors, as well as to roofing contractors for built-up roofing asphalt systems; and manufacturers in automotive, chemical, rubber, and construction industries. The company was incorporated in 1938 and is headquartered in Toledo, Ohio. The following companies are subsidiares of Molina Healthcare: 2028 West Broadway, Aetna & Humana - Medicare Advantage, Affinity Health Plan, Better Health Network, Florida NetPASS LLC, Hclb Inc., MHAZ, Magellan Complete Care, Mercy CarePlus, Molina Care Connections, Molina Clinical Services, Molina Healthcare Data Center, Molina Healthcare of Arizona, Molina Healthcare of California, Molina Healthcare of Florida, Molina Healthcare of Georgia, Molina Healthcare of Illinois, Molina Healthcare of Indiana, Molina Healthcare of Iowa, Molina Healthcare of Kentucky, Molina Healthcare of Louisiana, Molina Healthcare of Michigan, Molina Healthcare of Mississippi, Molina Healthcare of Nevada, Molina Healthcare of New Mexico, Molina Healthcare of New York, Molina Healthcare of Ohio, Molina Healthcare of Oklahoma, Molina Healthcare of Pennsylvania, Molina Healthcare of Puerto Rico, Molina Healthcare of Rhode Island, Molina Healthcare of Rhode Island Holding Company, Molina Healthcare of South Carolina, Molina Healthcare of Tennessee, Molina Healthcare of Texas, Molina Healthcare of Texas Insurance Company, Molina Healthcare of Utah, Molina Healthcare of Virginia, Molina Healthcare of Washington, Molina Healthcare of Wisconsin, Molina Pathways, Molina Youth Academy, NextLevel Health Illinois, Oceangate Reinsurance, Pathways Community Corrections, Providence Community Services, Providence Human Services, SWH Holdings, Senior Health Holdings, Senior Whole Health of New York, The Game of Work LLC, The Management Group, Total Care Medicaid plan, Unisys -Health Information Management, and YourCare Health Plan. Read More A Derry community worker has expressed his mounting concern about the perceived recent increase of the number of suicides in the city. Speaking to Derry Now, Martin Connolly, the manager of Community Restorative Justice (CRJ) which is based in Galliagh Community Centre, said he is becoming increasingly worried by what he described as the normalisation almost of suicide. Martin said: At the minute, all I am hearing are conversations like, There was another one at the weekend. It is just a vicious cycle at the minute. You worry for the future. You worry for your grandchildren and the young people in this city. It is terrible. It is heartbreaking. Martin said he found the current situation very frustrating. I watch away to see who is coming out and saying anything but none of the politicians are saying anything. I am not saying there is anything they can do but they could highlight the situation and let people know where they can go for help. There is help and support there but the politicians are too busy jumping through hoops about a company that might bring a thousand jobs. That money could have gone to HURT. It could make a difference to so many groups. It is so frustrating. Like so many people in Derry, I have had experience of suicide within the family and the threat of suicide. I think, at the minute, people are sitting feeling the same way as me and we want something done about this crisis. I think what they need to do is go back to what we were doing years ago, initiatives which worked. There were a number of projects set up in different areas throughout the North, community-based projects, to tackle these issues, but all those projects were taken away and things were regionalised a few years back and that has left a massive, massive gap within communities. Back in the day, Martin said people in any community in Derry knew who they could go to for help. He added: They knew which groups were there because by and large the groups were community-based. That has all gone now but I think it is critical that that support network is restored. I would like to see some sort of a structure put in place for people and families who need help or need to get help for someone else, somewhere they can go and get it within their own communities. We have HURT still out there and groups like that but they also need resources. Currently they do not have the resources to manage the work. They are inundated. And that is where people are falling through the gaps. People are coming to different groups but they cant get the help they need. They cant even get the support they need. It is as simple as that and it needs to be addressed, urgently. Martin believes there is also a need for more community-based education around drug and alcohol awareness in Derry. All the Western Drugs and Alcohol Co-ordination Team services were regionalised a number of years ago and although those groups do good work, it is not in their remit to provide alcohol and drug awareness training events. We used to have all of those things locally, drugs and alcohol awareness nights and health information sessions. Quite simply, they do not happen anymore. We have lost that community capacity to respond to families and individuals in crisis. I still do referrals through my own work, through CRJ, but it is just the fact there is nothing in our communities that people can relate to. People are very parochial. If you say to somebody, Listen, you are going to have to wait for four or five weeks until I get you a referral to the mental health team, it wont happen. People wont do it. I have seen cases myself where someone who is in a really bad place is taken to Altnagelvin and they have sat in A&E for five or six hours and then they have walked out. And you cant blame the police or the groups working in A&E because they are only doing what they can do. You cant force people to stay in A&E for 10 hours, said Martin. Another thing I would say is that it is critical that decision-makers talk to the families affected by suicide. They also need to be speaking to survivors, he added. They need to be listening to those people and taking on board their ideas about what might have helped. What would have helped your son? What would have helped your daughter? You survived this, what helped you? They really need to be listening. Derry is a great city, it is an amazing city but the darkside of Derry is it is on its knees. The ready availability of drugs and suicide is the talk on the streets at the minute. We saw it with pregabalin a few weeks ago. It is just a continuous cycle. I would like to see somebody in the city saying, Lets have a conference and look at this situation and try and get some simple ideas for short term interventions because we havent got six or seven years to design a strategy. By the time six or seven years comes along, there are going to be quite a lot of people lying in the cemetery that should not be there. I would even like some of our politicians to come back to me to discuss this. If I was a councillor at the minute, I would be jumping through hoops to try and get this crisis addressed. There seems to be nothing but silence. Resources need to be pumped into community-led, community-based initiatives and then you would see there would be a difference. Look at the dramatic reduction in deaths due to solvents when such awareness raising initiatives were funded. There have only been one or two deaths in the last 26 or 27 years. We need to get the funding into community structures which are already there. We dont need to set up new structures or new groups. The groups there at the minute that could do it. There is a starting point right there. Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. On Friday, 22nd September venues across the country will throw open their doors to offer an exciting array of cultural experiences free of charge as part of Culture Night. The event celebrates art and culture in all its forms and offers people the chance to connect with local cultural organisations and engage in new activities. Among them this year is the Tower Museum in Derry, working in partnership with local venues and artists to bring some beautiful pieces of art to temporary homes across the city as part of a special art trail. The event is also part of the museums Art in the Community programme, showcasing art from the museums collection. Delivered in partnership with National Museums Northern Ireland and funded through the Esmee Fairbairn Collections Fund, the programme aims to bring art to a wider audience. Curator with the Tower Museum, Roisin Doherty, revealed more about the trail. The Art in the Community Programme aims to shine a light on some of the wonderful art works we hold here at the Tower Museum. It features an eclectic array of pieces, mostly by local artists, and pieces have been selected for display by three local galleries: Eden Place Arts Centre (Pilots Row), The Cowley Gallery (Craft Village) & Centre for Contemporary Art (Artillery Street). "We hope that by showcasing the work in other venues, it will help promote engagement and make people aware of the fantastic talent we have here in the city. The collection takes in a wide variety of genres and this is just a select number of pieces which local art enthusiasts and the organisations have brought together under a number of themes. I would really recommend following the trail and immersing yourself in the full experience on Culture Night. Take a walk over to the citys picturesque Craft Village to sample some Short Stories in Art at the Cowley Gallery, Han Clothing and Sass and Halo. The space will be brought to life as the stories behind three art works are revealed though a fun, interactive story telling experience courtesy of the Makey Uppers. The shows run at 5pm, 5.30pm and 6pm. Culmore Community Sketchers Experience a sense of Home, Identity and Belonging at the Centre for Contemporary Art from 5pm 9pm, where Tess Jarays Promenade will be on display. The piece was selected from the collection by Director Catherine Hemelryk and Artist Kwok Tsui, whose own solo show opens at CCA on September 30th. Visitors can even try their hand at screen printing with Derry Print Workshop and take home their own piece of contemporary art inspired by Kwoks own design. From 7pm 9pm Eden Place Arts Centre will host The River Runs, a beautiful body of work taking inspiration from the art collection, with the river as a key theme. The pieces have been selected from the Art Collection by local artists led by David Fahy, and will remain on display until October 5th. Details of the art trail and all the cultural events taking place on September 22nd can be found at www.culturenight.ie/location/derry/ A fashion collection designed and made in Tyrone but inspired by the vibrant colours of Africa will be exhibited at this weekends One World Festival in and around Derrys Guildhall. Madge Kelly is born and bred in Nairobi in Kenya but has called Ligford just outside Plumbridge home since 2018 where she lives with her husband. She fell in love with sewing during the 2020 lockdown restrictions and has now developed a collection including tote bags, waist coats, circle skirts, scrunchies and aprons. I lost my beloved mother during the 2020 lockdown and thats when I discovered the art of sewing, she explains. As a way of dealing with grief, I taught myself how to sew and I started making masks for family and friends. In due time, I started making scrunchies, tote bags and headbands in my studio at home. I was inspired by the rich colours of the African prints and how it showcases the vibrancy of the continent and the heritage of the people. I wanted to pay homage to cultural diversity through my handmade designs. Madge named her collection RAFIKI, a Swahili name meaning friend, and initially began to share her items with family and friends. Their positive reaction has given her the confidence to now showcase her work to a wider audience. At the Guildhall this weekend I will be showcasing some of the designs I have been working on, she added. My motivation is to introduce and create awareness in our community of the African spirit by adopting the African prints in their wardrobe. By sharing my collection, I hope people will fall in love with the colours and embrace the African culture to create a sense of inclusion and diversity. In future I would like to train in Fashion Design, to learn the business of fashion and my goal is to showcase my African print designs in the runways of Paris and London during the Fashion Week. The North West Multicultural Festival - One World, hosted by Derry City and Strabane District Council, will take place in and around the Guildhall from midday on Saturday September 23rd and will showcase the vibrant tapestry of global cultures that exist locally. The comprehensive programme is a colourful celebration of worldwide music, song, dance and cuisine and includes performances, workshops, arts and crafts, storytelling, enlightening exhibitions and engaging dialogues. A performance space will be created Guildhall Square along with food stalls and arts and crafts including Beijing Mask Making and Thai Fan Making. Some of the items from Madge Kelly's colourful fashion collection. The space will feature dance and music performances from a wide range of genres including Hip Hop, Indian and Ghana from midday until 4.30pm. Inside the Guildhall, the Main Hall will feature the World of Workshops initiative where people can try India Saree tying, Polish and Latvian crafts and Chinese Dragon making. The Guildhall foyer area will play host to a range of displays of worldwide traditional costumes while the Whittaker Suite will have dance performances from Africa, India and Asia. A photographic exhibition by Mukesh Chugh will be displayed in the Main Hall. Next door in Harbour House, the beautiful Obon Fest Lanterns and an Indian Culture Exhibition will be on display and people can pop into a number of discussion events about the experience people from all over the world have had in relocating to the city and district. To access the full programme for the One World Festival visit www.derrystrabane.com/oneworldfestival. This festival has been supported by Councils Good Relations Programme. St Peters Church on Derry's Culmore Road hosted a service at the weekend to mark 90 years of continuous volunteering by St John Ambulance in the city and the North West. During the First World War and for a brief period after the war, St John volunteers operated in the Londonderry area. Indeed, with volunteers from Donegal, they provided personnel for Voluntary Aid Detachments across the UK and on the Western Front in France and Flanders. However, it wasnt until 1933 that the organisation became a permanent feature of life in the city itself. That came about with the opening of Craigavon Bridge in July of that year. Key to the formation of St John units in the city was the Mayor, Sir Dudley McCorkell, who had also played a major role in the Derry/Donegal Voluntary Aid Detachments of the First World War. It was Sir Dudleys vision that saw volunteers recruited in time to provide first-aid cover for the day that Craigavon Bridge was opened officially. Their training was exhaustive and a large contingent of volunteers was ready to deal with any situation on what turned out to be an exceptionally hot day. The big day on Craigavon Bridge was the beginning of decades of volunteer work for St John in the city and its hinterland that included first-aid cover at major sporting events, including Derry City FCs home games in the Brandywell. During the Second World War, St John Ambulance played a significant role in the civil defence organisation. With the city becoming a critical naval base during the Battle of the Atlantic, volunteer numbers increased and their role expanded to include work with victims of shipwrecks who were brought ashore in the city. Hundreds of volunteers were trained by St John in the city with much of the training conducted in the Guildhall. After the war, expansion continued with new divisions being formed and the Londonderry area growing to include Strabane and Limavady. Amalgamation with Tyrone and Fermanagh led to the creation of Western Area while a more recent re-organisation sees the city and district in a new Northern Area with its headquarters at Skeoge. Members of St John's Ambulance with Mayor Patricia Logue and Robert Miller, Archdeacon of Derry. St John volunteers served throughout the most difficult days of the troubles. The familiar black-and-white uniforms provided re-assurance at many events. While the uniform has changed, the ethos remains as it always had been. Today, St John volunteers are to be seen at many public events as they live out the twin mottos of the Order: Pro Fide. Pro Utilitate Hominum. (For the Faith. For the Service of Humanity.) by Barry Goldman Psychologists tell us we are susceptible to the just world fallacy. We think the arc of history bends toward justice. We think people, ultimately, get what they deserve. Historically, this belief led to the practice of trial by combat. God, you see, favors the just. Since that is so, we merely need to arrange a fight between the competing sides in a dispute, and God will reveal which side is right by seeing to it that the right side prevails. Trial by ordeal works on the same principle. Suppose two disputants appear with equally likely explanations for some state of affairs. Both accounts cannot be true. To resolve the question, the disputing parties can be, for example, required to grab a glowing hot iron bar and carry it for a specified distance. After a proscribed number of days, their resulting wounds can be examined and compared. The person whose burns appear less festering and septic will be the one who is favored by God and ipso facto the one whose account of the situation is true. We dont do it quite that way anymore. But the essence of the trial by ordeal and trial by combat is still with us. When we have disputes that we cant resolve ourselves, we hire champions to go forth and do combat on our behalf. They do it in dark wool suits rather than suits of armor, but the principle is the same. Our faith in this arrangement is similar to our faith in capitalism. Just as the invisible hand of the market is believed to promote Prosperity, the adversarial system is believed to promote Justice. The two mechanisms are equally marvelous. Richard Feynman liked to describe the way a particle accelerator is used to examine the structure of the subatomic world by comparing it to figuring out how a Swiss watch works by smashing two of them together and watching to see what flies out. The adversarial system has a similar design. You get your lawyer, I get my lawyer, and we smash them together and see what comes out. Not surprisingly, there are problems with this approach. As we tell our students in law school, a lawyers job is the zealous advocacy of his clients cause. Your client may be reviled by society. He may stand accused of the most egregious offenses. Rape, for instance. Your duty is to stand beside him. When he has no other friend in the world, your job is to be his friend. You have a duty to make the best case for him that can legally be made. If that means humiliating the witness against him, your job is to humiliate her. If it means destroying her character and reputation, your job is to destroy them. If it means making her relive the most horrible event in her life until she breaks down and shakes with sobs and moans, it cant be helped. The only reason to avoid making the complaining witness cry is that it may produce sympathy. Producing sympathy is a tactical mistake. The lawyer on the other side will similarly brutalize your witnesses if she thinks it will benefit her client. She too is bound by the sacred duty of zealous advocacy. It is fundamentally and irreducibly an ugly business. Then there is the problem of the conduct of the hearing. Litigants looking forward to their day in court believe they will be able to tell their story (at last!). This is not quite true. What they will be able to do is answer carefully scripted questions in a carefully scripted, ritualized way. There is nothing natural about it. And then they will be subject to cross-examination. Testifying on cross examination is a skill. The key is to reveal only the minimum amount of information necessary to answer the question. If opponents counsel asks if you know what time it is (and you know what time it is) the proper answer to the question is Yes. If another human being were to ask if you know what time it is, you would tell him the time. But cross examination is not like a conversation with another human being. Why not? Because in an ordinary conversation we assume good faith. The other person isnt trying to trick you or hurt you or make you look stupid. Hes trying to learn what you have to say so he can come to a more complete understanding of the world. You cant assume that when you are under cross-examination. Opponents counsel is trying to trick you or hurt you or make you look stupid. And the more you say, the more you are giving him to work with. We have a natural tendency to explain ourselves. We want to tell our story. We want to be understood. But explaining on cross-exam is a mistake. And it is a mistake because the assumption of good faith is misplaced. The lawyer on the other side is not asking questions because he wants to understand the truth. We have an adversarial system. He is your adversary. If your lawyer wants you to explain something, she will ask you about it when you are back on re-direct. But even then, you will not be able to tell your story. This is because of the rules of evidence. If you are an expert, you can testify about your opinion as long as you stay within your area of expertise. If you are not an expert, you are a fact witness, and you can only testify about facts. You cant, ordinarily, testify about what you have heard. That would be hearsay. And you cant, ordinarily, testify about what you think. That would be opinion. You can only testify in response to questions from counsel. There will be objections and motions and procedures conducted in a language you do not speak. Rulings will be made that you do not understand. And throughout the process a smart person who does this for a living will be trying to make you look bad. In the end, a person you do not know and who does not know you will be making an important decision about your life based on the performance of an elaborate dance you have never seen before, do not control, and cannot comprehend. On top of this there is the problem of lawyers compensation. If your lawyer is being paid by the hour, he has an incentive to complicate and prolong the matter. If you pay him on a contingency fee basis, you remove that difficulty, but the alignment of your interests is still only partial. I remember having dinner with a friend who represented the plaintiff in an auto accident case some years ago. He was waiting for the results of an autopsy. The question was whether the deceased had smoke in his lungs. If there was no smoke, he was killed by the crash. If there was, he was burned alive. Without dwelling on it, lets just say my friends interest did not perfectly match that of the dead mans wife and children. Finally, there is another problem with attorney compensation. This can be expressed in three words: lawyers eat pie. Pie is the universal subject of the literature in the field of dispute resolution. Negotiators try to get a bigger slice of the pie. Mediators try to expand the pie. Judges try to divide the pie in a way that follows the law. Labor arbitrators try to divide the pie in a way that follows the language of the collective bargaining agreement and does the least possible damage to the relationship between the parties. What lawyers do is eat pie. Every dollar that goes to pay the lawyers is a dollar that does not go into the pot to be divided by the disputants. The recent collapse of the cryptocurrency firm FTX provides an illustration. According to the NY Times, so far: Sullivan & Cromwell, which is managing FTXs bankruptcy, has charged more than $110 million in legal fees and recorded over $500,000 in expenses. Creditors have raised concerns about the hourly rates charged by Sullivan & Cromwell, which reach as high as $595 for paralegals and $2,165 for partners. FTXs case has cost more than $325 million. In June the FTX fee examiner [another professional who must be paid out of the assets in bankruptcy] noted that the spending up to that point amounted to 10 percent of FTXs remaining cash. Lawyers, accountants, consultants, cryptocurrency analysts and other professionals have racked up more than $700 million in fees since last year from the bankruptcies of five major crypto firms. No doubt the lawyers and paralegals at Sullivan & Cromwell work very hard and are very good at what they do. But what they do most effectively is eat pie. The adversarial system is opaque, frustrating, tedious, ruinously expensive, and voraciously time-consuming. The longer it goes on the more animosity it creates. If you were trying to design a system to maximize dissatisfaction its hard to see where you could find room for improvement. Around one in 10 people in the Republic of Ireland could define themselves a victim of the Troubles, a report carried out on behalf of the Commission for Victims and Survivors in Northern Ireland (CVSNI) has found. The findings show that 4% of Irelands population say they have been bereaved as a result of the Troubles, 7% say their mental health has been affected by a Troubles or conflict-related incident and 7% say they have been present at, or witnessed, a conflict-related incident. Of those who said their mental or physical health has been affected by the Troubles, 62% say they continue to be affected. The CVSNI worked with Social Market Research to replicate some of the questions of a previous survey of people in Northern Ireland in 2021. NI Victims Commissioner Ian Jeffers said his office, which was set up in the years after the Good Friday Agreement to address the needs of those affected by the conflict, had initially been focused on Northern Ireland. He added: But hurt, loss, grief and the many other ways in which conflict has affected peoples lives knows no borders and so over the years, our work has evolved to give greater consideration to those victims and survivors outside Northern Ireland. This is the first time weve been able to gather some concrete data which I hope gives us the evidence base we need when engaging with relevant bodies in the south on how we can put measures in place to improve lives of people there who still bear the impacts of the Troubles today. The survey, published on Monday, also found that 82% of the population feel it is important to address the impact the Troubles have had within the Republic of Ireland and 79% believe victims there should have the same access to services and support as those in Northern Ireland. Asked specifically about the Troubles Permanent Disablement Payment Scheme, brought in by the UK Government and mainly accessible to victims and survivors in Britain and Northern Ireland, 75% of Irelands population said they are in support of the Government of Ireland implementing a similar scheme for the severely injured. Mr Jeffers added: The next step for us will be to look at how we share these findings in ROI so that they have a real impact on policies and decision-making for victims and survivors there. It comes at a critical time for victims and survivors as the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill proceeds from the UK Parliament to royal assent. From that point on, a fundamentally flawed Bill becomes law and so we all have a role to play in helping shape its outworkings to actually delver something of benefit for victims. I know that many people can be unwilling to wear the label of victim and thats fine. But the figures in this survey can start to give us an idea of the extent of lives affected and whether we are meeting their needs. As we move into the lifetime of Northern Irelands new Strategy for Victims and Survivors, that is the part we need to focus on. If your mental health has been affected, if you lost a loved one, if youre living with a long-term injury, for example I want to help make sure your needs are being represented to policy makers, regardless of geography. South East Fermanagh Foundation (SEFF) provides services to victims of Troubles related violence throughout Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, and mainland UK. SEFFs director Kenny Donaldson said the report was an important watershed and called for the Irish government to establish an action plan to provide support services and establish victim and survivor issues within policy. For almost 15 years we have campaigned vigorously on behalf of peripheral-based victims/survivors of The Troubles and after significant years of lobbying we were able to finally position personnel in the Republic of Ireland and Great Britain to drive forward the agenda of victims/survivors located within these jurisdictions, he said. At the beginning of the journey there were few prepared to make that stand with us but thankfully in more recent years a new approach and willingness has evolved, finally people are understanding that no victim/survivor should be further victimised through postcode lottery; all should have equal access to the necessary support services and interventions needed. We have worked with the Commission for Victims and Survivors in enabling them to directly engage with victims/survivors located across the Republic of Ireland, and we have confidence that the current Commissioner understands the need for the southern political system to come up to the mark and provide for its citizens. Mr Donaldson said that to date the Irish government has not fully embraced legacy issues. It is absolutely shameful that in 2023 Governments are still failing victims and survivors, the lack of will in the Republic of Ireland to mirror the TPDPS/Victims Pension scheme, the arbitrary closing down of the Remembrance Commission which has debarred many victims and survivors from any meaningful form of acknowledgement/reparation is also unacceptable, he said. But beyond these matters of finance-related support, it is the refusal of the Irish State to fully embrace the problem and legacy of the Troubles that is most starkly felt. We have sought to build collaborative relationships with the Irish Government for well over a decade and there has been limited reciprocation of that goodwill, this must be transformed in the times ahead. Together we must do better for those living in the Republic of Ireland who have been adversely impacted by the Troubles. HIGHLIGHTS The demand for the iPhone 15 Pro Max has higher demand than the iPhone 14 Pro Max. The demand for the iPhone 15 Pro model is lower as compared to last year Wait times for the iPhone 15 Pro Max are significantly longer than for other models. Apple recently unveiled the most awaited smartphone series of the year, the iPhone 15 series. The iPhone 15 series includes four smartphone models: iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and the high-end iPhone 15 Pro Max. Now, while sharing thoughts on the iPhone 15 series first weekend pre-order, a well-renowned supply chain analyst claimed that the demand for the iPhone 15 Pro Max is robust, outpacing the iPhone 14 Pro Max smartphone model. In a Medium post on September 17, supply analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said, Demand for the iPhone 15 Pro Max is robust, as previously expected, outpacing last years iPhone 14 Pro Max. Also read: Apple iPhone 15 series: Price in India, specs, availability related FAQs answered Kuo further mentioned that demand for the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus is roughly on par with last year. Also, the demand for the iPhone 15 Pro is lower as compared to last year, with one possible reason being a shift of more premium users to the iPhone 15 Pro Max this year. Also read: Get the iPhone 15 for as low as 12,100 with the Apple Trade-in program According to Kuo, wait times for the iPhone 15 Pro Max are significantly longer than for other models, but not just due to high demand. Current iPhone 15 Pro Max shipments are lower due to a later mass production schedule, and its current production challenges are more pronounced than other models, he said. Kuo believes that approximately 80 million units of the iPhone 15 will ship this year. According to Google Trends, the iPhone 15 is the one that has been searched by most people. However, some users might also use the iPhone 15 term to look for other models if they are not familiar with the specific names. Additionally, The Economic Times revealed in a report that the new iPhone 15 series has won many hearts. If compared to last year, about 20-25 per cent more pre-bookings have been done this year. HIGHLIGHTS Almost all the details and specs of the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE have surfaced on the internet. The smartphone could offer a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED display. On the camera front, we can expect a classic triple-camera setup. Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is expected to release this month. The South Korean tech brand is yet to announce its plans with this phone but the internet has been talking for a while now. A leak doing rounds now has revealed the design details and colour options that will be offered to the users. While we await the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S23 FE, almost all the details and specs have surfaced on the internet. What was left was the design and colours, but now we know that too. Recently, MSPoweUser revealed images of the smartphone that hint at its colours and design. From the looks of it, these images look like they have been taken from the official marketing deck. Also read: Samsung Galaxy S23 FE spotted online: Check out full specifications Source: MSPowerUser So as per the images, the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S23 FE will look mostly like Samsungs flagship offering, the Galaxy S23 series. It will retain the curved edges, thin bezels, as well as the punch-hole display. Further, the phone will come in four colour options to choose from dark purple, black, white, and light green. Lets now take a look at everything that we know about the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE: According to tipster Yogesh Brar, the smartphone could offer a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED display offering 120Hz refresh rate and FHD+ resolution. It could run on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 or Exynos 2200 processor. The phone will also include the OneUI 5.1 skin on top, which is based on the Android 13 operating system. Also read: Samsung Galaxy S23 FE to boast Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 SoC, 4500mAh battery: Report On the camera front, we can expect a classic triple-camera setup with a 50-megapixel OIS primary lens, a 12-megapixel telephoto lens, and another 8 megapixel lens. And on the front, there could be another 10 megapixel selfie shooter. On the battery front, we can expect a 4,500 mAh battery backup which would come along with 25 Watt fast charging support. Data security could be another hurdle for China-made EVs' foray into Europe Chinese EVs are establishing a foothold in the European market. The European Commission has said it will launch an anti-subsidy investigation on cheap EVs imported from China. EV suppliers said it is necessary for Chinese companies to develop overseas markets. However, the concern about data privacy, which has emerged in several sectors, will likely hinder their efforts. As the world's largest automotive market, China hosts a large number of carmakers. That is why Chinese EV companies need to expand in foreign markets to gain traction. Moreover, going abroad will help the automakers work with international parts suppliers and seek further growth. Chinese car companies expanding globally is an inevitable trend and not surprising. Suppliers said China-based customers made many requests aiming for exporting their vehicles, such as ensuring that the design or components meet the European and US markets' needs. The phenomenon becomes more evident in 2023. Sources said Chinese automakers have ambition for the global market while knowing the right time had yet to arrive. As the EV industry scales up at an unimaginable speed, these companies know it is their turn to shine. Whether European customers will become fans of China-made EVs remains to be seen. Suppliers said one of the factors is if buyers get an EV to reduce carbon emissions or enjoy the advanced services the vehicle offers. For example, many Tesla buyers intend to receive innovative technology services, automotive driving and other features rather than drive an EV. These early EV adopters care about the new technologies the vehicle uses over the car's performance. Sources said this group still contributes to a certain level of EV sales nowadays. According to suppliers, another factor for Chinese EVs to succeed in Europe is user experience. For China-based automakers, protecting consumers' data and privacy is more significant than fulfilling the market needs. Sources said data is the foundation of the automotive CASE trend, mobility as a service (MaaS) and software-defined vehicles. China is one of the major players in the global data competition. When it exports cars to Europe, which emphasizes data privacy, it will face many challenges. The concern over data privacy does not target China-based carmakers. Former Tesla employees once said the company's engineers will share and discuss footage shot from cameras on the vehicle. Renowned surveillance camera manufacturer and leading smart home technology developer in China also experienced data leaks or inappropriate use. How Chinese carmakers use the data their vehicles gather will attract more attention as they enter the European market. Concerns about data privacy do not only apply to cars but also to charging stations and other equipment. Weekly news roundup: Huawei's chip made by SMIC is a breakout, not a breakthrough and other top stories These are the most-read stories on the DIGITIMES Asia website during the week of September 1115: Huawei's Kirin 9000S chip made by SMIC is only a breakout, not a breakthrough Even though SMIC is lagging behind TSMC and Samsung Electronics by 5-6 and 4-5 years, respectively, it still managed to cross the threshold of advanced semiconductor manufacturing by successfully manufacturing Huawei's Kirin 9000S processor with multiple exposure processes using its FinFET N+2 node on immersion DUV machines. However, the Kirin 9000S chip that SMIC produced for Huawei is not a "breakthrough." It is only a "breakout" of the restrictions imposed by the US. Next US export ban against China could target advanced packaging In light of the fact that Chinese foundries can still obtain used equipment and consumables for process technology upgrades despite the US ban, the US could target advanced packaging for sanctions next, according to industry sources in Taiwan. Huawei HarmonyOS to be available for PCs Following the release of Huawei's Mate60 Pro series of smartphones, it has been reported that its Harmony operating system (OS) will enter the PC sector in 2024. Wang Chenglu, a former senior official at Huawei who once led the development of Harmony, revealed that HarmonyOS will be launched on PCs in 2024. Huawei and Xiaomi incorporate LLM in smartphones, why not Apple? In contrast to previous AI applications that relied on cloud servers, Chinese smartphone makers, including Huawei and Xiaomi, have been launching a "cloud + terminal" strategy since August 2023, aiming to run LLMs directly on smartphones and bring AI applications to end-user devices. However, realizing this goal requires overcoming a series of technical and resource challenges. Since it is still in the exploratory stage, far from maturity, no wonder Apple is not eager to join the race at this stage, since it has always been accustomed to "make the late but impactful strike". South Korean semiconductor industry reels from long-term contracts signed with GlobalWafers in 2021 In the face of the semiconductor industry's downturn, GlobalWafers continues to maintain strong performance, achieving record-high combined revenue in the first half of 2023. However, the South Korean semiconductor industry is currently facing a challenging situation due to its prior high-priced, long-term contracts with GlobalWafers, making it difficult to manage the increasing inventory in these tough economic times. In light of Huawei's 5G smartphone launch, US could pose even stricter sanctions, said DIGITIMES Research Huawei's secret launch of the Mate 60 Pro 5G smartphone has put many in the US chip industry on high alert. The fact that Huawei chose to schedule the launch during US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo's visit to China is seen as Huawei making a statement on its self-sufficiency. In response, the US could be issuing even stricter export sanctions, according to DIGITIMES Research senior analyst Luke Lin. Huawei shines in spotlight, but optimism amid US sanctions remains premature Huawei was put into the spotlight after it launched the Mate 60 Pro powered by a secretive SMIC-made SoC. However, it is too early to be optimistic about Huawei's breakthrough from US sanctions. Views differ on whether the Mate 60 Pro is Huawei's comeback in the smartphone market or is more of an experimental product. The smartphone is largely expected to put pressure on Qualcomm, MediaTek, and Apple. Save my User ID and Password Some subscribers prefer to save their log-in information so they do not have to enter their User ID and Password each time they visit the site. To activate this function, check the 'Save my User ID and Password' box in the log-in section. This will save the password on the computer you're using to access the site. Note: If you choose to use the log-out feature, you will lose your saved information. This means you will be required to log-in the next time you visit our site. A GROUP of scientists from University of Limerick (UL), in partnership with University Hospital Limerick and Queen's University Belfast, have discovered antibiotic-resistant bacteria in University Hospital Limerick's (UHL) wastewater system. This completed research is the first extensive look at hospital wastewater and its possible role in causing infections. This study, recently shared in the Journal of Hospital Infection, deals with the global problem of antibiotic resistance, which affects millions of people every year. Hospital-acquired infections are said to be a major concern in this context, where patients admitted for treatment become susceptible to infections circulating in the hospital wards. The study's unique method involved examining the genetic material and tiny organisms in the wastewater system at UHL. Researchers studied samples from 20 sinks, showers, and toilets in a ward where antibiotic-resistant infections had occurred in the past. This UL-led research became possible during a ward renovation, allowing scientists to inspect different parts of the interconnected plumbing system. By also processing samples from patients who were infected while admitted to the hospital ward, it was possible to confirm that the bacteria that infected them were very likely present in the wastewater system. Professor Colum Dunne, the Head of UL's School of Medicine and leader of the study, stressed the significance of the research, saying: "We all know that antibiotic resistance is a big problem in hospitals. However, this study is the first of its kind to examine hospital wastewater in this way and link it to infection outbreaks. "We're grateful for the support of hospital management and engineering in helping us understand the microbes in their water systems. This unique study will lead to better ways of preventing and controlling infections, benefitting patients everywhere." Dr Nuala O'Connell, one of the study's co-authors, emphasised how important these findings are: "This research helps us understand how sinks, shower drains, and toilets can hold antibiotic-resistant bacteria. If we can improve how we control infections in these areas, we might reduce the number of infections that are hard to treat." The collaboration between UL's medical experts and Queen's University Belfast's advanced scientists played a crucial role in the study's success. Dr Stephen Kelly, one of the co-authors from Queen's University Belfast, added: "This study shows the benefits of teamwork among doctors, scientists, and computer experts, working together to help patients stay healthy." The complete study, 'Large-scale characterisation of hospital wastewater system microbiomes and clinical isolates from infected patients: profiling of multidrug-resistant microbial species,' can be found online in the Journal of Hospital Infection. The brother of a man believed to have been shot by the Army on his 19th birthday in 1973 has said he is legally challenging the Governments controversial legacy bill because he wants justice William Campbell, older brother of Anthony Campbell, is one of a number of victims relatives who are bringing cases to the High Court to challenge the legislation. The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill which got royal assent on Monday will provide a limited form of immunity from prosecution for Troubles-related offences to those who co-operate with the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery. It will also prevent future civil cases and inquests. The Bill was opposed by all major Stormont parties, the Irish Government and victims campaign groups. In February 2021, Northern Ireland Attorney General Brenda King ordered a new inquest into the deaths of a group of men referred to as the New Lodge Six shot in north Belfast in February 1973. Some of the men were members of the IRA but their families have always insisted they were unarmed when they were killed and believe the Army were responsible for all the deaths. However, due to the provisions of the legacy bill, it is unlikely that the inquest will be able to be completed before a cut-off date of May 1 2024. Mr Campbell said: This legacy bill is a disgrace to human nature because it only helps the British hide their dirty war. The British government are pushing it through very fast and youve got to ask yourself why? The reason is they are hiding something. Mr Campbell also said he believed the Irish Government had been slow to respond to the incoming legislation. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has indicated that the Irish Government has requested legal advice as it considers taking a case against the UK to the European Court of Human Rights. Mr Campbell said: The Irish Government is doing very little on this amnesty bill. They are saying they will think about bringing them (the UK Government) to court. This is the reason I am doing this (taking a High Court challenge), and other people are doing it, because they wont move. What have Leo Varadkar and Micheal Martin done? Nothing. I want justice for my brother. The Americans are against this bill, the EU is against it, everybody is against it. The Irish Government should be doing more. Mr Campbells challenge is one of five being mounted by Belfast law firm KRW Law. The firm has said the legislation breaches Britains Article 2 ECHR obligations (Right to life in European Convention on Human Rights). Another law firm, Madden & Finucane, has also said it will be challenging the legislation on behalf of a number of relatives of Troubles victims. The festooned parade floats and cruise ships are on display at the opening ceremony of 2023 Shanghai Tourism Festival which kicks off in the city's North Bund on Saturday. The floats adorned with lights and decorations will tour around the city during the festival period. The annual event will run through Oct 6 this year. The 21-day travel extravaganza is set to comprise more than 100 activities in Shanghai and its five nearby provinces of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Anhui, Fujian and Jiangxi. WSTA hell-bent on making temporary wine duty stick The chief executive of the Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) has said the trade group is hell-bent on trying as hard as we can to ensure the temporary arrangement for wine duty becomes a permanent move. Speaking at the Specialist Importers Trade Tasting (SITT) in London, Miles Beale told an audience of independent retailers, producers and importers that the WSTA is working to ensure the temporary measure, in which wines between 11.5% and 14.5% abv are taxed at an assumed strength of 12.5% abv, will continue beyond the 2025 cut-off. The temporary measure came into force alongside wider duty changes on August 1. We lobbied to achieve that concession, but we want it to become permanent, said Beale. We have 18 months to make sure that it becomes a permanent state of affairs. The difficulty of course is there will be a general election just before that. And therefore, we're having to look at not only the current government, but also the one that might come next, which might not be one party it might be more than one. Beale added that the government had now amended inherited EU rules to allow wine to be labelled to 0.1% abv (previously the alcohol content had to be given to whole or half degrees - although the permitted tolerance for labelling purposes remained at +/- 0.5% abv). This was welcome given the measure was already permitted in some non-EU wine producing nations, such as Australia and the US. But this change alongside the new duty regime meant that the government has moved from three wine tax rates before August 1, 2023, to potentially 93 separate amounts per bottle in 18 months time. He said that this accumulating burden of additional red tape would be a key point when lobbying for keeping the temporary measure. Discussing the burden on small businesses, audience members said vintage variation, especially in the wake of climate change, would add a great deal of work to running a business. One importer said the task would be a nightmare if the temporary measures dont hold, given how many different producers they deal with. The question of fine wine was also raised, with concerns around very old bottles that either dont display abv or are unlikely to still be at the same abv. Keeping the current measures for wine between 11.5% and 14.5% would also take away the headache for government when it comes to dealing with those types of wines, added Beale. The WSTA chief exec said the organisation is working to help government understand the implications of removing the temporary measure. We've been working with our Australian counterparts and asking Australian ministers to explain the impact on the Australian wine industry for example, he said. The UK leaves the European Union, it does a trade deal with Australia and New Zealand more or less at the same time. And both Australia and New Zealand wine suddenly gets more expensive. The figure that we've given to the government that appears to have some impact was to say, the Free Trade deal introduces a benefit that is then wiped out five times over by the new alcohol duty system. Thats the kind of thing that we're trying to do to help ministers understand that what they're introducing is a bad idea. Elsewhere, Beale said the WSTA is working to agree a more straightforward approach to importer labelling. The new rules will mean that wine imported into the UK must carry the address of the UK importer or bottler (not an EU one), and are scheduled to come into play on January 1. The WSTA consultant Simon Cairns, who was also part of the SITT discussion, said product that is already in market before the deadline does not need to carry fresh labels. Beale said the WSTA is working with government to introduce wording used in the food industry that would allow both EU and UK addresses on a single label, removing the need for UK businesses to add additional labels. What we need is the UK Government to approve this approach that we think would work for Brussels as well, said Beale. So, my feeling is that it will happen, but it's a really good example of something that's a bit painful, simply because of the administrative logistics of having left a trade bloc. Beale said it is possible the deadline for importer labels could again be extended. Related articles: BRITVIC Ireland has announced an investment of 6 million in its Ballygowan facility to grow the sites production capacity by over 20% in order to meet growing consumer demand for Ballygowan mineral water. The expansion, which will see the creation of 28 new jobs at the facility in Newcastle West, County Limerick, will provide additional bottling capacity for the equivalent of 50 million fully recycled and recyclable 500ml bottles of Ballygowan. Welcoming the announcement, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Simon Coveney, said: "Id like to congratulate Britvic Ireland on their announcement of a 6 million investment at their facility which will support the growth, expansion, and sustainability credentials of one of Irelands best-known water brands, Ballygowan. I warmly welcome the creation of 28 new manufacturing roles at the facility, and the strategic investment in the sustainable, long-term production of Ballygowan mineral water. Kevin Donnelly, Managing Director at Britvic Ireland, commented: This investment will create new manufacturing roles for the local area, provide additional bottling capacity for the equivalent of 50 million 500ml bottles of Ballygowan made from fully recycled and recyclable plastic, enhance production capability, and underpin the strong sustainability credentials of our site. We are incredibly proud of this latest milestone in Ballygowans journey as Irelands most loved and leading bottled water brand, and the benefits this investment will return for Britvic Ireland and the wider community in Newcastle West. Ballygowan is Irelands number one bottled water brand, and consumer demand has grown steadily in recent years with sales of Ballygowan products undergoing strong double digit volume growth compared to pre-Covid levels. Newcastle West is the home and source of Ballygowan mineral water, which has been produced and bottled at source since 1984. Britvic Ireland have been a local employer in the town since 2007, and the facility currently employs 55 people in addition to the newly announced roles. Britvic Ireland's portfolio includes brands such as Ballygowan, MiWadi, Pepsi, Club and TK. A popular toy brand is issuing a recall of accessories sold to hundreds of Irish parents due to a major safety concern. According to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), Build-A-Bear Workshop UK Limited has issued a voluntary recall of the Black, Fuchsia and Rainbow Roller Skates Accessory, and the Skull Skateboard Accessory. The Black, Fuchsia and Rainbow skates (batch numbers 01/22, 04/22, 08/22, 10/22 and 11/22) reportedly have a sharp/ rough edge at the bottom bolt of the skates which may cause injuries to the user such as cuts. The type/number of models are the following: Black Skate: SKU424675 Fuchsia Skate: SKU424581 Rainbow Skate: SKU424582 The bar codes are the following: Black Skate: 000000424675 Fuchsia Skate: 000000424581 Rainbow Skate: 000000424582 Only the Black Skates, Fuchsia Skates, and Rainbow Skates sold in stores between 26 June 2022 and 29 April 2023 and online between 12 June 2022 and 29 April 2023 with the above bar codes are affected. There are 587 affected products in the Republic of Ireland. The risk associated with the Skull Skateboard is possible choking as the wheel and axle rod can detach, creating small parts. These small parts may be placed in the mouth and swallowed, causing a young child to choke. The type/number of the affected model is SKU:427169, the batch numbers are 04/22 DP002 and 10/22 DP004, and the bar code is 000000427169. Only the Skull Skateboards sold in stores between 21 August 2022 and 29 April 2023 and online between 7 August 2022 and 29 April 2023 with the above bar code is affected. There are 371 affected products in the Republic of Ireland. If you purchased one of these products, please discontinue use immediately and keep it out of the reach of children. Customers can return the product to your local Build-A-Bear Workshop for a full refund. For any further information please phone Build-A-Bears Guest Services line at 1800 882 974. Housing, healthcare and the cost of living are the focus for Louth Sinn Fein TD Ruairi O Murchu as the Dail begins a new term this week. The Oireachtas opens for business on Wednesday afternoon after the summer recess, with TDs focused on the June 2024 local and European elections and the next general election. Deputy O Murchu, who attended his parliamentary partys think-in in Dublin on Friday, said Sinn Fein elected representatives discussed election preparations, housing and the cost of living. He said: We are moving into an election phase and one of the most important there has ever been as we look forward to local and European elections in June, which will be voters first opportunity to opt for change. I have spent the summer in the constituency, attending events, meeting people in the Dundalk office and seeing the public appetite for change, which is growing every day. There has been a lot of conversation this summer about Irish unity and there is a growing desire for the proper preparations to be put in place for a referendum on this issue. People feel the government is not up to the task of solving the problem in their lives. The Louth TD continued: Mortgage costs are increasing, house prices for those who are seeking mortgages are increasing, prices are rising, rents are on the up and there continues to be a chronic shortage of houses to rent or buy. There continues to be huge difficulties in Louth for families with children with accessing care, respite, occupational and speech and language therapies and mental health services. And there are people who are struggling to care for loved ones, whether these are children or parents, whose cries for help are being ignored. The latest Census figures show that Louths over 65 population grew by 24% in the six years from April 2016 to April 2022. The public knows that if we want things to change, then a change of government is needed. Housing will be the defining issue of the upcoming elections and the government parties will have to answer voters as to how their policies are impacting on the ability of employers to hire workers, schools to hire teachers and hospitals to hire healthcare staff. The Census figures show that there has been a 20% rise in the number of adults living with their parents in Louth in the last six years. Deputy O Murchu added, if people give us the opportunity, a Sinn Fein led government that will fix the housing crisis by reducing rents and delivering the largest social and affordable house building programme in the history of the state. The outcome of the next general election is far from decided, we know that we have a lot of work to do. INSPIRATION from around the world sparked a career change for Sarah Cotter, who is originally from Ballincollig. Sarah studied at UCC and went on to become an occupational therapist, living and working in London from 2010 to 2013. She and her boyfriend (soon-to-be husband), Eoin, experienced the grind of big city life and were also introduced to an exciting coffee scene that was unfamiliar to them. They decided to travel abroad, spending six-months in South America and ultimately reaching Australia where they settled for three years. Melbourne was their fixed abode whilst they enjoyed trips to New Zealand and around Australia. Sarah was working in a hospital in Melbourne but wasnt happy with her way of life. I always had the idea of opening my own cafe. Eoin and my friends were really supportive of this switch in career so I went for it! Sarah plied her trade in two cafes in Melbourne. She absorbed as much as she could until they returned to Ireland. She worked stints in Gogos in Douglas, and Naturally Nourished in Mahon, continuing her education in the industry. She was so committed to her goal of opening her own cafe, that she would travel to Dublin, scouting out the exciting coffee scene up there, visiting different cafes with her pen and pad, compiling style ideas together into her soon to be realised vision. She and Eoin moved to Douglas and thought it would be an ideal location. That was until Sarah visited a vacancy in Ballincollig. Founder of Good for the Soul, Ballincollig, Sarah Cotter with her team. Picture: Richard Gordon I just knew I wanted a corner building with big windows and then I saw this place! she recalled. Good for the Soul in Ballincollig was born. The arched black door of the unit is reminiscent of a different era as it splits down the middle to open. The grand windows draw masses of daylight into the cafe absorbed by the hanging plants that are trimmed to perfection by Sarahs mom, adding a layer of vibrancy and life over the polished concrete ceiling with exposed steel and ventilation, giving it an industrial chic appearance. Sarah wanted that look, but also wanted people to feel warm and cosy. She attained that by filling the place with reclaimed wood. The furniture arrangement has been pieced together from a variety of second hand furniture places around Cork, the chairs are old school chairs and the counters are old teachers desks that have been varnished over with the help of her family and in-laws. Even the back of the fridge that juts outside the kitchen has wooden panelling to prevent an eye-sore. Her eye for detail is obvious. There is a mixture of a minimalism and maximalism aesthetic happening and none of it is by accident. There is various artwork scattered around that acts like a trail for the presence of previous employees. The interior of Good for the Soul, Ballincollig. Picture: Richard Gordon Ive always had part-timers working here. The cafe attracts creative types of all kinds, said Sarah, as she pointed to some murals on the wall, showing me their work. Menus give nostalgic vibes with Dandy comic book covers adding homely character to the place an idea stolen from Melbourne. All their pastries are made in-house by her talented baker, Nina, AKA Queenery Cakes by Nina, who will branch out by herself soon. Her head barista, Dave, wants to open his own place, also. It was lovely to hear how Sarah was repaying the karmic favour in real time by hiring people who are just like how she was a few years prior, with the intention of opening their own business. This suggested to me a real community feel, as do her list of suppliers - a long list. Arbutus sourdough, Ballyburden meats, and Ballyfin Eggs. The latter run by a young couple called Ed and Naomi, and Sarah actually sells their eggs in store. Inside Good for the Soul, Ballincollig. Picture: Richard Gordon She tried Roasted Brown Coffee in Dublin on one of her scouting trips and has stayed loyal to them from day one, as she loved the taste so much, although they stock and sell West Cork Coffee retail bags also. They stock and make their own hot sauce, relish, jam, and granola as if they werent busy enough with a full brunch style menu and exquisite coffee brewed out of their La Marzocco Linea PB. A flat white and an iced Americano, at Good for the Soul, Ballincollig. Picture: Richard Gordon Time moves on and now Sarah and Eoin are married and parents to a daughter, Annie. In the beginning, Sarah used to do everything herself but now shes a mom she delegates more and more. She claimed she wasnt creative as we sat and chatted in her glorious creation. Perhaps artistry isnt her strong suit, but she certainly has a talent for bringing people together, getting the best out of them, and making the best of what she has. With its effortless warmth and charm, Good for the Soul, is indeed, good for ones soul. Next week: Richard visits Stone Valley Coffee Roasters, Clonakilty. FORMER Lord Mayor Dino Cregan still daydreams about the day he spotted his wife for the first time from a bus travelling through Cork city. The young bus boy from Bandon Road couldnt help but wonder about the mysterious young lady who frequented the same route every day. She was a lasher, the chip shop mogul told The Echo. Mary always looked so dainty when she was running to get to work. The factory girl, who grew up in Turners Cross, never learned about her secret admirer until the pair came face to face in a local dance hall. However, it was far from love at first sight that Mary experienced. I had no idea in the world who he was, she laughed. Dino recalled dancing his way over to Mary and her friends in the hope of catching the young womans eye. He did just that, albeit for all the wrong reasons. I looked at him and said 'what are you doing?', Mary laughed. Taken aback by the Cork mans unconventional dance moves, she proceeded to show him a thing or two. It would be Dinos first - but not his last -impromptu dance lesson from Mary. I wasnt taken with him at the time. All I wanted was to dance and meet my friends, Mary explained. Dino, who is preparing to celebrate the couple's 61st wedding anniversary on September 25, recalled those innocent times. Former Cork Lord Mayor Dino Cregan and his wife Mary on their wedding day. There was no real drinking in those days. Fellas got one pint and thought they were drunk. They had milk and cakes there but neither of us ever drank. It seemed that Dino didnt need Dutch courage to try his charm on Mary a second time. My house was only two doors above the dance hall. I knew the night she was going there so I waited outside with my dog, a little Scottish terrier named Sammy. When she came outside I pretended I was bringing the dog for a walk and asked her if she wanted to join me. "It was 11 OClock at night when I walked her home. Sammy was like the matchmaker. He was the start of it really. PERSISTANCE Luckily, his persistence paid off and he managed to bag a date with his dream woman. That was when he asked me out. It turned out he knew me but I didnt know him. All those days I was walking to work I had no idea there was someone watching me, she laughed. Mary remembers their date like it was yesterday. We made a date to go dancing again because I wasnt a pictures person. The Arcadia was massive in those days. I can remember all the musicians dressed in their cream suits. He described Mary as the most beautiful dancer. Mary was a great dancer. She showed me how to do the old-time waltz. It cost half a crown to get in. The Arcadia has the best of musicians. Sometimes everyone would just stop dancing and all eyes would be on them. While the couple had little back then, Dinos job came with some perks which included the lost property section of CIE. We didnt have a lot but Mary was never short of scarves or umbrellas. That was what people left in the lost property back then. You had to pay four pence to claim an item back then and not everyone came back. Because the bus moved so fast people were always afraid of missing their stop and left things behind without thinking. It wasnt long before Dino and Mary tied the knot at Turners Cross Church. When we married in 1962 we had seven pounds in our pocket, Dino said. Former Cork Lord Mayor Dino Cregan and his wife Mary, looking through their wedding album at their home in Ballinlough. The couple went on to have seven children: Christine, Sean, Thomas, Derek, Denise, Mary and Eoin I had been working in Dwyers from the age of 14 and left the job at 22 when I got married. Im lucky that I made so many friends there, some of whom are still with me after 70 years. The couples first fish and chip shop was on the side of their house. We started our first fish and chip shop in 1970. Jackie Lennox was doing very well at the time so I thought it might be a good idea. My brother brought a cash register into the shop and showed us how to work it. We put everything we had into the drawer which was seven and thruppence. Derek was six weeks old when we opened. We made 55 the night we opened. I bought the rotisserie from Jackie Lennox. I didnt have to pay for it for a month because that was just the kind of person he was. DATE NIGHT Dino and Mary always looked forward to date night every Tuesday. We were known as the party house. You could have 24 of us in the lounge on St Stephens Night. Every Tuesday night we would go to the Chinese or the cinema. Mrs Mac looked after the children. She loved the kids and they loved her. Neither of them dreamed their popularity would lead them to become Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress in 1991. The entrepreneur explained how he initially got elected as a Fine Gael councillor. We were the only house in the area with a phone at the time which made us very popular. I became very popular for the deaths. I was always the first to know about them because St Finnbarrs Hospital would ring me to inform me that someone had died. I would then visit their family to tell them their loved had passed away. Mary recalls finding one phone number written on her wallpaper. I can remember finding a number that someone had written on the wallpaper. I rang it back to see if I could find out who it was but it was the hospital that answered. LORD MAYOR Dinos local fame hit the stratosphere when he was appointed Lord Mayor. Our only complaint was that every second went too fast, Dino said. I loved being Lord Mayor and Mary loved her time as Lord Mayoress. Everything we did was for the good of Cork. We always wanted to do what was best for the city. The couple love nothing more than spending time with their sons and daughters and 15 grandchildren. All the children live two minutes away bar Sean, Mary said. He lives in Ballincollig so we always joke that he emigrated. Now boasting eight fast food outlets throughout Cork including in Bishopstown, Ballincollig, Douglas, Blackpool and Kinsale, Dino admits he isnt short. Nonetheless, its the little things money cant buy that keep the duo content. Around 16 years ago I underwent heart surgery, Dino said. It was recommended that I exercise to regulate my heart so Mary and I waltzed around the kitchen to the radio in the mornings. We still dance together in the kitchen all the time. Its a shame the dance halls went because Mary was always the most beautiful dancer. However, we will always enjoy waltzing around to Oldies and Irish in our kitchen. A CORK county councillor is on a mission to restore gender equality among the older population with calls for pension reform in Budget 2024. Pensions are set to increase in the budget through a bonus payment. This, along with the fuel allowance will result in benefits of more than 300 from next year. However, Independent councillor Ben Dalton OSullivan who serves the Carrigaline Municipal District, feels the measures do not go far enough to recognise older women who spent most of their lives working in the home. The politician put forward a motion at a recent meeting of county councillors seeking changes to the current system. I am looking to write to the minister for finance and the minister for public expenditure to ask them to give full equality to all those over 80 with regards to the over 80s pension increase in October, he said. At the moment, the budget is disproportionately affecting female pensioners and woman who worked in the home long ago. There is a scheme where if a pensioner turns 80 they get an extra 10 in their pensions. "When you view the case of a woman, particularly one who worked in the home, they are often down as a dependent on their husbands contributory pension. Under this current scheme this spouse - even though she turned 80- wont get the 10 increase because she hasnt paid stamps. He said that while the increase would be small it would be a step towards recognising women who worked hard all their lives to raise families. It is a small amount that will buy them their newspaper during the week or a few bits for the house. if were honest about womens equality in this country that should extend to people over the age of 80 as well. Its a small amount and it should be a blanket increase as opposed to for people who only get stamps. Mr OSullivans colleagues supported the motion. Confirmations are yet to be made with regard to Budget 2024 proposals. However, it is believed that pensions may be increased by way of a bonus payment rather than increasing the rate. CORK City Council has been accused of a lack of data and transparency on the robot trees installed in Cork city centre. Labour local area rep in Cork city Peter Horgan received documents from the local authority under Freedom of Information (FOI) showing the costs involved in the purchasing and upkeep of the controversial robot trees on Patrick Street and Grand Parade and has now called for an enquiry into the matter. The total cost of the purchase was 355,106 for the robot trees which were unveiled in August 2021. The total cost of regular inspection and maintenance of the robot trees for the period of August 10, 2022 to September 9, 2023 was 17,880. However, a spokesperson for the council told The Echo: Cork City Council refutes any suggestion that there is not full transparency around the costs associated with the moss walls." To date, Cork City Council has paid for the maintenance period of 2022 to 2023 which cost 17,800. The period before this was covered by the initial purchase contracted maintenance period." The performance data is being analysed at present and will be released once this analysis is completed. Cork City Council Director of Services David Joyce expressed interest in the purchase of the robot trees from German-based company Greencity Solutions in September 2020. A purchase was made later that year for the transport and installation of the robot tree units, AirCare as part of a monthly subscription, data display as part of a monthly subscription, and maintenance and care as part of a monthly subscription. Since then, councillors have requested a report from Cork City Council on the effectiveness of the robot trees covered in special mosses that trap harmful pollutants and promise to absorb 80% of fine dust particles from the air. Mr Horgan said the sums of money involved and the "lack of data and transparency demands" a formal inquiry. 'MOST EXPENSIVE BENCHES EVER' I cannot see any reasons given for pursuing this project that hold up to scrutiny, for what are effectively the most expensive benches ever purchased by a local authority," he said. Elected councillors questions are stalled or ignored. The peoples money could have been spent on a far more productive climate friendly project, on a multiple scale. Theres no data on their use. What is most concerning is that elected members had no formal input or sign-off. Mr Horgan said that there was no vote or agreement on the purchase of the robot trees which he said would have been the proper thing to do from a governance perspective given the costs involved. For the amount that were spending to a German company were not getting the right level of service it would appear, but its clouded in secrecy, he said. Thats why I keep going back to a pro-transparency directive that should be undertaken by City Hall and that all data should be published on a website that everyone can access. I shouldnt have had to resort to a Freedom of Information request, councillors shouldn't have to keep rotating the Executive at Council meetings and get nothing. Mr Horgan said he would be contacting parliamentary colleagues in the Public Accounts Committee to consider an investigation. THE ever-evolving role of youth workers in communities across Cork city and county was singled out as being life-changing at a recent training and wellbeing event. The Youthwork Service unit of Cork Education & Training Board (Cork ETB) organised a day-long event in Spike Island for workers and managers of projects and services supporting young people in rural and urban areas of Cork. The event was designed to upskill those involved at the frontline in helping young people to realise their potential. The Chief Executive of the Cork ETB, Denis Leamy praised the role youth workers play across Cork city and county. We must never undervalue the work that goes in youth settings given the vital, life-changing impacts it has had in recent years. Young people who benefit from out-of-school support will remember those inputs for years to come. The education system does not suit everyone and so its important that the youthwork space opens up for that cohort of young people. Workers from various organisations, including Foroige, Cloyne Diocesan Youth Service, YMCA, Cork Simon, Good Shepherd Cork, and several others, participated in workshops and talks about developments and opportunities during the event. Mick Finn, Cork ETB Youth Service Development Officer, said: The training and wellbeing day was also a reward for those professionals who are working so hard with young people to help them navigate the many hurdles they face in everyday life to reach their potential and who may be blocked from doing so by a variety of circumstances. We put on STEM and co-operative games workshops. We also had speakers on the Gaisce Awards, the Cork Local Creative Youth Partnership, as well as a presentation for the Sexual Health Centre about the changing needs of young people and how workers can upskill to handle emerging issues, he added. Met Eireann has issued a yellow rain alert for Cork and is warning that persistent rain could lead to localised flooding and travel disruption. The warning, which comes into effect at midnight tonight, will remain in place until 6am on Wednesday morning. It said that spells of rain will be heavy and persistent at times giving accumulative totals of 30 to 60mm, locally higher on hills. The rain will ease off for a time in many parts on Tuesday daytime, before heavy spells of rain return Tuesday evening and night, it added. The forecaster has also issued a yellow wind warning for Cork and a number of other counties which comes into effect at midnight on Tuesday night and remains in place until 7am on Wednesday morning. It said that south to southwest winds will be very strong and gusty with the possibility of difficult driving conditions. A 57-year-old Cork man who got into a row with another man on Mary Elmes Bridge ended up throwing the mans bicycle, watch and earphones off the bridge into the River Lee. The owner of the bike and other property was at a loss for the 410 value, Sergeant John Kelleher said at Cork District Court. Alan Healy who lives at an apartment in Joachim & Annes on Anglesea Street, Cork, pleaded guilty to a charge of causing criminal damage to the bicycle during the incident six months ago. Judge Olann Kelleher took into consideration the fact that the 57-year-old man had gathered the full amount of compensation for the owner of the bicycle and other property and he imposed a total jail term of eight months which he suspended on Healy. Garda Aideen Hallahan responded to the call at lunchtime on March 3 where it was reported that Alan Healy had thrown a pedal cycle belonging to Uyi Agho into the river from Mary Elmes bridge. In mid-afternoon on June 1, Garda Laua OConnor was on mountain bike patrol at Paul Street when she encountered the same 57-year-old man. Sergeant John Kelleher said, He had cannabis herb wrapped in cling film. He got very aggressive in his manner and placed the suspected herb wrapped in film up his rectum. Mr Healy had to be restrained due to his level of aggression and he retrieved the cannabis from his rectum. He later made full admissions and pleaded guilty to charges brought against him arising out of both incidents. The accused had 30 previous convictions including one for obstruction, one of possession of drugs and five for being drunk and a source of danger to himself or others. Frank Buttimer, solicitor, addressed Judge Olann Kelleher saying, I would ask you to take into consideration his plea of guilty, his personal circumstances including pretty significant health problems and educational and social difficulties. He has had to some extent addiction difficulties. He is a habitual cannabis user that he almost takes medicinally, whether or not there is an addiction. He does not intend to be offensive to people. (At Mary Elmes Bridge) he had an encounter with an individual in a group situation. He took possession of the bike and damaged it wrongly. Even though his circumstances would not be great he gathered compensation and paid it over in relatively quick time. Charges including causing criminal damage were brought against him in respect of the first incident and obstruction of gardai in relation to the second one. A young man who spent too much time on his own online during the Covid-19 pandemic ended up accessing child pornography but since then has cooperated with the investigation and complied with all directions of the probation service. In all the circumstances, Judge Olann Kelleher said that while it was a serious charge the mitigating factors allowed for the imposition of a suspended sentence. The Director of Public Prosecutions decided that the case involving possession of images and videos of child pornography in March last year would only be dealt with at district court level on a guilty plea. Nathan Bevan of Cathedral Road, Cork, pleaded guilty to the charge brought against him by Detective Garda Tom Delaney, of being in possession of 25 images and 12 videos of child pornography. Sergeant Pat Lyons said 16 of the images and one of the videos were category 1, the most serious material depicting children witnessing or engaged in sexual acts. The defendant was represented by solicitor, Shane Collins-Daly, who said the accused was extremely apologetic. He has no previous convictions. He lives with his parents. During Covid he spent quite a lot of time online. He progressed from pornography itself to these images. Since then he made arrangements to see his GP and he has been given anti-anxiety and anti-depression medication. He cooperated at all times with the investigation. And he cooperated with the probation service. He would be suitable for probation supervision if the court feels it is appropriate. He has made a significant effort to be more sociable and meet his friends who are encouraging him when he goes into himself they are keeping an eye on him. He was never in trouble in his life. He is working and is never likely to come before the court again, Mr Collins-Daly said. Judge Olann Kelleher said the offence warranted a custodial sentence but said the mitigating factors outlined by the solicitor had to be taken into consideration. Judge Kelleher imposed a nine-month sentence suspended on condition that the defendant would continue to take the directions of the probation service including attendance at the Safer Lives programme, which the judge described as a very successful type of programme. St Vincent De Paul (SVP) South-West is set to face the toughest Christmas and New Year in decades as calls for help in Cork and Kerry are up 30% on this time last year. Crippling energy costs, soaring fuel prices, and unprecedented demand for food have placed severe strain on resources, with 1,300 calls for help per week currently being made to SVP South-West. People in Cork and Kerry are being asked to support the annual SVP South-West Car Draw which is a key fundraising event for the region and provides vital support to those in need. Speaking at the launch of the SVP South-West Annual Car Draw, SVP South-Wests Regional Coordinator Gerry Garvey said the charity gearing up for the most demanding Christmas and Winter period in several decades. We have received an unprecedented number of calls for this time of year and from all walks of life, including but not limited to; pensioners and social welfare parents, carers and those on disability payments, and those on low paid employment, he said. Energy costs are the primary concern for callers, and SVP are the only charity providing fuel assistance to families and vulnerable individuals in Cork and Kerry during the winter months. "The price of a bag of coal has almost doubled this year it may even increase again and this has really put a strain on our reserve funds for the year. Energy costs are crippling, but unfortunately thats not the only issue, the rising cost of food has also impacted our funds, and we need to ensure that we increase the food vouchers we provide in accordance with the cost of living and these heightened food prices. he added. The overriding theme we are seeing this year is that, in addition to struggling and vulnerable people, the cost-of-living crisis is pushing full-time lower income workers further into poverty and we are receiving calls from people who are in despair every day because they are struggling massively to cope with basic living expenses. SVP Regional President Paddy OFlynn said that this year, the fundraiser would be even more critical to the charity to help them continue assisting people across both Cork and Kerry, describing the number of people who require assistance this year as unprecedented. In addition to supporting families, in the run-up to and throughout the festive period, the charity continues to provide up to 4,530 homes across Cork and Kerry with regular coal deliveries throughout the winter and delivering approximately 350 food hampers every week to families in need. Last year, over 8,400 families and individuals were contacted and supported by SVP volunteers in Cork and Kerry. Tickets for the Annual SVP South-West Car Draw cost 5 each and can be purchased by visiting www.svp.ie/cardraw23. The final date for entries will be 12 noon on Friday, January 12 2024 and the draw will take on Wednesday, January 17. A motorist who sped away from gardai and was later caught with cannabis herb has been jailed for five months and banned from driving for 15 years. Stephen Murphy, aged 38, of 1 Deanrock Villas, Togher, Cork, pleaded guilty to charges arising out of the incident. Sergeant John Kelleher said the accused should not have been driving at all on the day as he was already disqualified from driving and had no licence or insurance. When Garda Keith Cahill arrested him and charged him with the offence, his reply after caution was: Sorry about that. Murphy has 121 previous convictions. He was convicted 27 times previously for driving without insurance and 16 times for having no licence. He was convicted 13 times for having drugs for his own use. Solicitor Eddie Burke said he asked the defendant if he had any excuse for driving on the occasion, and that Stephen Murphy replied: It was poor decision-making. Mr Burke said the accused had a very bad heroin addiction in the past, but was clean. He is doing extremely well towards what he was, said the solicitor. Judge Olann Kelleher imposed the prison sentence and driving disqualification. Sergeant John Kelleher described what happened on August 16. Gardai were on duty at St Patricks Rd when they observed a Volkswagen Jetta being driven quickly and turning right onto Friars Walk without indicating or braking at an amber light. Gardai followed the vehicle onto Townsend Place, Greenmount, Cork, where the driver failed to stop for gardai when signalled, said Sgt Kelleher. He entered a house at Townsend Place. However, he came back out when signalled by gardai to do so. Gda Cahill informed him he was being searched. He handed over a small white wrap containing suspected cannabis herb. Kenneth Fox Gardai have arrested four more people in connection with a public order incident in Co Galway. It happened on the Headford Road in Galway City a week ago. This brings the total number of people detained as part of this investigation to 19. Three of the men in their 40s, 30s and 20s have been charged and are due to appear before Galway District Court on Monday morning. A teenage boy has been released pending a referral to the Garda Youth Diversion Programme. Founded in 2005 as an Ohio-based environmental newspaper, EcoWatch is a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental issues, causes, and solutions. California Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks at Climate Week NYC 2023 in New York, New York, on Sept. 17, 2023. Climate Group / Flickr The State of California filed a lawsuit on Friday, People of the State of California v. Bill Oil, against the worlds biggest oil companies, alleging they are responsible for billions of dollars in damages for misleading the public by downplaying the risks of fossil fuels. Sunday, while attending an event for Climate Week in New York, California Governor Gavin Newsom said he will sign new legislation the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act that would require corporations earning $1 billion or more doing business in the state to disclose their carbon footprints in all parts of their supply chains, as well as in their investments, reported Common Dreams. The governor said preserving Californias reputation as a climate leader was important. Would I cede that leadership by having a response that is anything but, Of course I will sign that bill? Newsom told a reporter, as Common Dreams reported. No, I will not. Newsom said there had been quite a bit of opposition to the bill, and that there was still some tweaking to do. We have some cleanup on some little language, Newsom said, without providing any more details, as reported by Reuters. Some international companies have expressed their support of the bill, including Microsoft and Apple. THIS IS HUGE! Signing #SB253 into law is nothing short of historic. This piece of legislation is integral to our lowering our emissions and fighting the climate crisis, California Environmental Voters said on X. It is expected that the new legislation will apply to around 5,400 companies, Politico reported. The law requires more than federal climate disclosure rules proposed by the Securities and Exchange Commission, which apply exclusively to publicly traded companies without mandating all of them to report their Scope 3 supply chain emissions. The Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act requires complete Scope 3 disclosure for privately held companies as well. This is exactly the kind of policy framework that investors have long sought to better understand how companies are working to manage and mitigate the immense financial impacts of the climate crisis, said Mindy Lubber, CEO and president of sustainability advocacy group Ceres, in a press release from Ceres. Notably, the package also has the support from more dozens of leading businesses that recognize the massive opportunity of the shift to a low-carbon economy and deserve a standardized and consistent platform to showcase their efforts. The new bill could still face court challenges, some lawyers have said, reported Reuters. The suit filed by California on Friday alleges that fossil fuel companies have known for decades that reliance on fossil fuels could cause climate change, but they suppressed that information from the public, The Hill reported. Requirements for corporations to start reporting certain data on their greenhouse gas emissions under the Climate Corporate Accountability Act would begin sometime in 2026, while yearly reports on Scope 3 emissions would be required beginning in 2027, according to the text of the bill. Indonesia's Japfa exports over 32,000 live chickens to Singapore Indonesian agri-food company, Japfa, has made another successful delivery of more than 32,000 live chickens to Singapore, continuing its contribution to the nation's food security efforts, The Edge reported. The live chickens, raised in Bintan, Indonesia by Japfa, marks the third successful shipment to Singapore this year, totalling over 91,000 birds exported from Indonesia. Singapore, aiming to diversify its food sources, faced disruptions in live chicken imports due to the pandemic, making Japfa's contributions vital for the nation's food supply. Japfa's most recent shipment, dispatched on September 1, 2023, signifies an ongoing commitment to bolstering Singapore's fresh chicken supply from Indonesia. The company operates swine farms in Vietnam and various farming operations in China and Myanmar. Singapore has been actively diversifying its sources of food to enhance food security, particularly since the onset of the pandemic. Live chicken imports, which were primarily sourced from Malaysia, encountered disruptions due to a temporary ban between May and October 2022. Tan Yong Nang, chief executive officer of Japfa, highlighted the significance of this recent shipment in furthering the consistent supply of fresh chicken to Singapore from Indonesia. He said that as a leading industrialised agri-food player, with headquarters in Singapore, Japfa has the capacity to meet Singapore's demand and standards for chicken, and the company is proud to contribute to the country's food security strategy by providing local consumers with quality products. - The Edge Azerbaijan fish farm becomes first sturgeon caviar producer to achieve BAP certification Azerbaijan Fish Farm LLC has attained the Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) certification, making it the world's first sturgeon breeding farm with a specialised focus on caviar production to earn this recognition, Global Seafood Alliance (GSA) reported. Founded in 2017, the company's noteworthy approaches include the utilisation of a Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS), the cage culture model, and advanced seaside tanks, all of which contribute to the well-being of fish during their incubation and early life stages. Azerbaijan Fish Farm's distinctive advantage lies in its ability to combine freshwater from the Kura River with saltwater from the Caspian Sea, mirroring the natural habitat of sturgeons. This unique approach is pivotal in ensuring the premium quality of caviar produced by the company. Azerbaijan Fish Farm is committed to eco-friendly practices and conservation initiatives. The company actively organises fish release events, releasing ten sturgeons into their natural habitat for every jar of caviar sold. This initiative contributes significantly to the preservation of the critically endangered sturgeon populations native to the Caspian Sea, underscoring AFF's unwavering dedication to ecosystem preservation. Presently, Azerbaijan Fish Farm exports its premium caviar worldwide, including the USA, UAE, Singapore, Hong Kong, and more. The BAP certification serves as a testament to AFF's ongoing sustainability endeavours, reiterating its pledge to responsible caviar production. - Global Seafood Alliance Parana, Brazil, slaughtered 5.9 million pigs in January-June 2023 Parana, Brazil, recorded the highest number of pigs slaughtered 5.9 million head in six months during the January-June 2023 period. The amount was 138,000 more than in the previous six months, which represents a growth of 2.3%. The figure maintains Parana's position as Brazil's second-largest pork producer, behind Santa Catarina, which reached 8.4 million head in the same period. In the first quarter of 2023, Santa Catarina was responsible for 29.9% of national production, while Parana accounted for 20.5% of the country's total. Between April and June this year, Santa Catarina's share fell to 29.7% and Parana's production now represents 21.4% of the national total. Between April and June, Parana reached the mark of three million pigs slaughtered in a quarter for the first time. Parana's results in pork production also fared better than the national average. In Brazil as a whole, production in the first half of 2023 was 28.2 million units, which represents a negative fluctuation of 0.1% in relation to the immediately preceding six-month period. - AEN What is caesars wild west the simpsons nftTangible Personal Property? Tangible personal property is a tax term describing personal property that can be physically relocated, such as furniture and office equipment. Tangible personal property is always depreciated over either a five- or seven-year period using straight-line depreciation but is eligible for accelerated depreciation as well. Tangible personal property is anything other than real property (land and building) that is used in the operations of a business or rental property. Understanding Tangible Personal Property Tangible personal property is the opposite of real property, in a sense, as real property is immovable. In comparison to intangible personal property, tangible property can be touched. Consider property such as furniture, machinery, cell phones, computers, and collectibles which can be felt compared to intangibles such as patents, copyrights, and non-compete agreements that cannot be seen or touched. Key Takeaways Tangible personal property includes a wide variety of equipment, from small office fixtures to light trucks and buses. Tangible property also includes all miscellaneous assets that do not inherently qualify for any other class life, such as jewelry, toys, and sports equipment. Tangible personal property represents anything that may be used like a desk, bed, lamps, or other furnishing for a rented home or business. Tangible personal property is subject to ad valorem taxes. In most states, a business that owned tangible property on January 1 must file a tax return form with the property appraisal office no later than April 1 in the same year. The property appraiser places a value on the property, and the tax amount due is calculated by multiplying the property value by the tax rate set by the tax authorities in the state. Property owners who lease or rent tangible personal property must also file this return for tax purposes. Some counties and cities require the filer to list all property on the tax form and to provide the fair market value and cost for each tangible property. In these cases, the county will also provide a valuation table that can be used to estimate the value of the property based on its age and useful life. Some states only apply a tax on tangible property in the year the property was purchased. Example of Taxes and Tangible Personal Property Any new business-owning tangible property on January 1 must file an initial tax return on the property. After the initial year of filing, if the assessed value of the personal property exceeds $25,000 in any given year, the business is required to file a tax return. A letter from the property appraisal office will usually be sent by mail to the company notifying it to file taxes on its property. If the company or landlord believes the letter is not applicable, the letter may be returned to the office with another letter explaining why taxes on tangible personal property does not apply to the business. Tangible personal property tax is paid by a landlord or company to its local government, but landlords or company owners can claim a deduction on federal income tax returns. To claim the deduction, the tax must only apply to personal property owned and bought for the business operation, be based on its fair market value, and be charged on an annual basis (as opposed to a one-time basis). If your fiance is in the kitchen and youd like him to get some wine from the refrigerator for you, how would you ask? Later, if youd like your fiance to return the wine to the refrigerator without you having to leave your spot on the couch, how would you ask him to do that? Most Americans would say Would you bring me some wine? and Take this wine back to the kitchen, please, respectively. Notice, however, that these questions use different verbs to describe nearly identical actions. The distinction hinges on usage patterns, rather than on strict grammatical rules. If these rules seem confusing or unclear, continue reading to learn more. What is the Difference Between Bring and Take? In this article, I will compare bringvs. take. I will use each word in a sentence to illustrate its proper context, and, I will give you a helpful trick to use when you cant decide whether bringor takeis appropriate for your writing. When to Use Bring What does bring mean? Bringis a verb that means to carry along with you. Like take, it can be literal or figurative. For example, Dont bring bean dip to the party, because nine other people already did. Bring Hannah with you when you come! Hurricane Matthew, raking Haiti and poised to slam into the Bahamas on Wednesday, could bring wind and heavy rain to the Mid-Atlantic this weekend. The Washington Post If you dont quite see the distinction between bring and take, lets take a closer look. Bring suggests motion toward the speaker or writer. suggests motion toward the speaker or writer. Take suggests motion away from the speaker or writer. This is why our beginning examples are phrased the way they are. You would ask your fiance to bring you a bottle of wine and then take it way when you are done with it. When to Use Take What does take mean? Takeis a verb that means to carry away with you. It can be used literally to refer to physical objects or figuratively in a variety of contexts. For example, Take the money and run! Take this small gift as a token of my appreciation. Nori needs you to take her to the airport tomorrow morning. Overruling the dean of the cathedral at the time, the suffragan bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of New York called the statue theologically and historically indefensible and ordered Ms. Sandys to take it away. The New York Times Take is sometimes a synonym for use, like in the examples below. Drilling each hole separately would take too long. Take 33rd Street to Hawthorne and turn left. These examples are somewhat abstract. In the first sentence, drilling the holes separately could be said to use too much time. In the second example, the driver will use 33rd street to get to Hawthorne, at which point she will turn left. Trick to Remember the Difference Here is a helpful tip to remember takevs. bring. Takeand bringare verbs with very similar meanings. In situations where they both mean to carry something, they are differentiated by context, specifically, the implied direction of travel. For instances when someone will be moving away from the speaker or a specified point, use take. For situations when a person will be moving toward the speaker or a specified point, bringis more appropriate. You can use the phrase take it away to remind yourself to use takewhen the direction of travel is away from you. You would never say bring it away from me. Summary Is it bring or take? Bringand takeare verbs that mean to carry something, but they have slightly different uses. In situations when the direction of travel is toward the speaker, bringis the correct word. In situations when the direction of travel is away from the speaker, the correct word is take. If you arent sure whether you should use takeor bring, remember the phrase take it away. This trick should help you remember that take is the better verb when someone is carrying something away from you. What Is an Obligor?casino online crypto An obligor, also known as a debtor, is a person or entity who is legally or contractually obliged to provide a benefit or payment to another. In a financial context, the term "obligor" refers to a bond issuer who is contractually bound to make all principal repayments and interest payments on outstanding debt. The recipient of the benefit or payment is known as the obligee. If a covenant is breached by an obligor, the bond may become invalid and require immediate repayment, or it can sometimes be converted to equity ownership. Understanding Obligors An obligor is a person who is legally bound to another. Debt holders are the most common types of obligors. However, in addition to the required repayment of interest and principal, many holders of corporate debt are also contractually required to meet other requirements. For a bondholder, these are called covenants and are outlined in the initial bond issue between the obligor and obligee. Obligor in Corporate Settings Covenants can be either affirmative or negative. An affirmative covenant is something that the obligor is required to do, such as the need to hit specific performance benchmarks. A negative covenant is restrictive in that it stops the obligor from doing something, such as restructuring the leadership of the organization. Since these bond issues are contractual obligations, obligors may have very little leeway in terms of deferring principal repayments, interest payments or circumventing covenants. Any delay in payment or non-payment of interest could be interpreted as a default for the bond issuer, an event that can have massive repercussions and long-term ramifications for the continuing viability of the business. As a result, most bond obligors take their debt obligations very seriously. Defaults by overleveraged obligors do occur from time to time. Obligor in a Personal Setting An obligor is not required to be a bondholder or a holder of some other form of debt. Someone can become an obligor in their personal life, too. In family law, there are certain cases when a court order is handed downin a divorce settlement, for examplethat requires one of the parents to pay child support to the other parent. If a working spouse is told by the courts to pay the non-working spouse $500 a month, the monthly payment will make them an obligor. In situations like this, if there are changes to an obligor's financial status or income, they may petition the court to reduce their monthly obligation. Key Takeaways An obligor is a person or entity who is legally or contractually obliged to provide a benefit or payment to another. An affirmative covenant is something that the obligor is required to do, such as the need to hit specific performance benchmarks. In family law, there are certain cases when a court order is handed downin a divorce settlement, for examplethat requires one of the parents, the obligor, to pay child support to the other parent. Otherwise, even if the obligor loses their job, the payments remain due and cannot be discharged in bankruptcy like other civil judgments. If an obligor falls behind on court-ordered payments, such as child support, it can lead to problems, such as wage garnishment, loss of driver's licenses, and other problems. It is important that an obligor parent pay what is owed, and make an effort to change child support amounts when there is a change in income of either parent. What Is Tangible Net Worth?my online casino club4kings casino Tangible net worth is most commonly a calculation of the value of a company that excludes any value derived from intangible assets such as copyrights, patents, and intellectual property. For an individual, the tangible net worth calculation includes home equity, any other real estate holdings, bank and investment accounts, and major personal assets such as an automobile or jewelry. Relatively insignificant personal assets are not ordinarily included in the calculation for an individual. Formula and Calculation of Tangible Net Worth TNW = Total Assets Liabilities Intangible Assets where: TNW = Tangible Net Worth \begin{ aligned} &\text{ TNW} = \text{ Total Assets} - \text{ Liabilities} - \text{ Intangible Assets} \\ &\textbf{ where:} \\ &\text{ TNW} = \text{ Tangible Net Worth} \\ \end{ aligned} TNW=Total AssetsLiabilitiesIntangible Assetswhere:TNW=Tangible Net Worth Tangible net worth is calculated as follows: Locate the company's total assets, total liabilities, and intangible assets, which are all listed on the balance sheet. Take total assets and subtract total liabilities. Take the result and subtract intangible assets. Tangible net worth can also be calculated for individuals, using the same formula of total tangible assets minus total debt liabilities. Key Takeaways Tangible net worth is typically the net worth of a company excluding intangible assets such as copyrights, patents, and intellectual property. The tangible net worth calculation for a company is total assets minus total liabilities minus intangible assets. Tangible net worth can also be calculated for individuals, using the same formula of total tangible assets minus total debt liabilities. What Tangible Net Worth Can Tell You Tangible net worth for a company is essentially the total value of a company's physical assets. These assets can include: Cash Accounts receivables or money owed to a company from its customers for sales Inventory, such as finished goods Equipment, such as machinery and computers Buildings Real estate Investments The tangible net worth calculation is designed to represent the total value of a company's physical assets net of its outstanding liabilities, as based on figures shown in the company's balance sheet. In effect, it indicates an approximation of the liquidation value of the company in the event of bankruptcy or sale. The primary positive of the tangible net worth calculation is that it is simpler to do than a total net worth calculation, as it is easier to place an accurate value on physical assets than it is to evaluate intangible assets such as customer goodwill or intellectual property. Intellectual property includes things such as proprietary technology or designs. Tangible net worth is a factor often considered by a lender from whom a company or individual is seeking financing. Typically, banks and creditors will use physical assets of a company to secure a borrowing facility. If the company fails to make payments or defaults, the bank can legally seize the assets. The tangible net worth calculation helps creditors determine the size and terms of the borrowing facility so that they don't lend more than the company's assets are worth. Tangible Net Worth Limitations of Using Tangible Net Worth 1:26 A drawback of using tangible net worth is that it may fall substantially short as a representation of actual net worth in cases where a company or an individual has intangible assets of considerable value. For example, a major computer software firm such as Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ: MSFT) may possess a wealth of intellectual property rights and other intangible assets that are worth billions of dollars, which would be excluded from the tangible net worth calculation. One item that can complicate the tangible net worth calculation is subordinated debt, debt that in the event of a default or liquidation is only repaid after all debt obligations to senior debt holders have been satisfied. A simple example of subordinated debt is a secondary mortgage held on real estate. The secondary mortgage is only repaid after the debt represented by the primary mortgage is paid off. If the value of the property on which a company or individual holds subordinated debt is not sufficient to retire that debt in addition to the debt owed to senior and primary debt holders, then the subordinated debt should not be included in the calculation of tangible net worth. Have you ever lost the keys to your home, or misplaced your wallet? If you still hadnt found them after checking all the most likely spots, you might throw your hands up and say, They could be anywhere! The trouble is, depending on the person youre talking to, they could also be anyplace. Or is it any place? Anywhere is an adverb, so between it and any place, it would be the better word for the sentence you spoke. But what about anyplace? As if you werent already confused, now you have three ways to describe all the places your lost keys could be hidden. What is the Difference Between Anyplace and Any Place? In this post, I will compare any place vs. anyplace. I will outline the correct word and explain how it should be used in the proper context. I will also show you a helpful memory tool that makes choosing any place or anyplace a bit easier. When to Use Anyplace What does anyplace mean? Anyplace is an informal synonym of the word anywhere,found in colloquial and nonstandard speech. Anywhere, of course, refers to an unspecified location to describe where an action happens. The statement They could be anywhere! describes the unknown nature of the true location of the sentences subject. Replacing anywhere with anyplace would not change someones understanding of the sentence. That said, anyplace is, at best, a colloquial variant of anywhere. It is common in casual, spoken English, especially in informal settings amongst familiar acquaintances. In writing, however, it is considered nonstandard and inappropriate for formal writing scenarios. As The New York Timesputs it, It [anyplace] should generally be avoided in serious and straight-news contexts. Use anywhere instead: He could not find a good cup of coffee anywhere. When to Use Any Place What does any place mean? The phrase any place consists of an adjective, any, that modifies the noun place. Any place is, therefore, a noun phrase. Any placemeans a nonspecific location. The exact location may not actually matter, like in the phrase any place at the table, or it may be unknown, like the statement avoid any place with bedbugs. Here are a few more examples, Find a place to put your things; any place will do, said the old caretaker. Any place with air conditioning will be better than sitting here in the hot sun! complained Sebastian. East, however, has also recently adopted an omnichannel, or connected retail, approach to its business. Its like that old Martini slogan: anytime, any place, anywhere, says Spink. The Telegraph You could easily pluralize the noun places, and ask a question like Are any places to eat still open? If you wanted to get really creative, you could even put words between any and place, like in the phrase any other place. Trick to Remember the Difference Any place is a legitimate phrase, but anyplace is not. Any time you are tempted to use anyplace as an adverb that describes somewhere something could happen, use anywhere instead. This word is more appropriate for formal writing. To remind yourself to use anywhere instead of anyplace, use the phrase anywhere you see anyplace, change it to anywhere instead. Summary Is it anyplace or any place? While these words have all the same letters, one is widely accepted, and one is widely rejected. odds parlay calculator payoutshows grade level based on the word's complexity. dactylomegaly [ dak-tuh-loh-meg-uh-lee ]/ dk t lomg li / New Word List Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.[ dak-tuh-loh-meg-uh-lee ]/ dk t lomg li /Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. noun Medicine/Medical.abnormal enlargement of the fingers or toes. Words nearby dactylomegaly QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Question dactylomegalydactylo- + -megalydactylic, dactylo-, dactylogram, dactylography, dactylology, dactylomegaly, dactyloscopy, -dactylous, dactylus, -dactyly, dadDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 What Is the Annual Percentage Yield (APY)?mega slots jackpots double diamonds The annual percentage yield (APY) is the real rate of return earned on an investment, taking into account the effect of compounding interest. Unlike simple interest, compounding interest is calculated periodically and the amount is immediately added to the balance. With each period going forward, the account balance gets a little bigger, so the interest paid on the balance gets bigger as well. Key Takeaways APY is the actual rate of return that will be earned in one year if the interest is compounded. Compound interest is added periodically to the total invested, increasing the balance. That means each interest payment will be larger, based on the higher balance. The more often interest is compounded, the higher the APY will be. APY has a similar concept as annual percentage rate (APR), but APR is used for loans. The APY on checking, savings, or certificate of deposit holdings will vary across product and may have a variable or fixed rate. APR vs. APY: What's the Difference? Formula and Calculation of APY 1:53 APY standardizes the rate of return. It does this by stating the real percentage of growth that will be earned in compound interest assuming that the money is deposited for one year. The formula for calculating APY is: Where: r = period rate n = number of compounding periods What Annual APY Can Tell You Any investment is ultimately judged by its rate of return, whether it's a certificate of deposit (CD), a share of stock, or a government bond. The rate of return is simply the percentage of growth in an investment over a specific period of time, usually one year. But rates of return can be difficult to compare across different investments if they have different compounding periods. One may compound daily, while another compounds quarterly or biannually. Comparing rates of return by simply stating the percentage value of each over one year gives an inaccurate result, as it ignores the effects of compounding interest. It is critical to know how often that compounding occurs, since the more often a deposit compounds, the faster the investment grows. This is due to the fact that every time it compounds the interest earned over that period is added to the principal balance and future interest payments are calculated on that larger principal amount. Comparing the APY on 2 Investments Suppose you are considering whether to invest in a one-year zero-coupon bond that pays 6% upon maturity or a high-yield money market account that pays 0.5% per month with monthly compounding. At first glance, the yields appear equal because 12 months multiplied by 0.5% equals 6%. However, when the effects of compounding are included by calculating the APY, the money market investment actually yields (1 + .005)^12 - 1 = 0.06168 = 6.17%. Comparing two investments by their simple interest rates doesn't work as it ignores the effects of compounding interest and how often that compounding occurs. APY vs. APR APY is similar to the annual percentage rate (APR) used for loans. The APR reflects the effective percentage that the borrower will pay over a year in interest and fees for the loan. APY and APR are both standardized measures of interest rates expressed as an annualized percentage rate. However, APY takes into account compound interest while APR does not. Furthermore, the equation for APY does not incorporate account fees, only compounding periods. That's an important consideration for an investor, who must consider any fees that will be subtracted from an investment's overall return. Example of APY If you deposited $100 for one year at 5% interest and your deposit was compounded quarterly, at the end of the year you would have $105.09. If you had been paid simple interest, you would have had $105. The APY would be (1 + .05/4) * 4 - 1 = .05095 = 5.095%. It pays 5% a year interest compounded quarterly, and that adds up to 5.095%. That's not too dramatic. However, if you left that $100 for four years and it was being compounded quarterly then the amount your initial deposit would have grown to $121.99. Without compounding it would have been $120. X = D(1 + r/n)n*y = $100(1 + .05/4)4*4 = $100(1.21989) = $121.99 where: X = Final amount D = Initial Deposit r = period rate n = number of compounding periods per year y = number of years Special Considerations Compound Interest The premise of APY is rooted in the concept of compounding or compound interest. Compound interest is the financial mechanism that allows investment returns to earn returns of their own. Imagine investing $1,000 at 6% compounded monthly. At the start of your investment, you have $1,000. After one month, your investment will have earned one month worth of interest at 6%. Your investment will now be worth $1,005 ($1,000 * (1 + .06/12)). At this point, we have not yet seen compounding interest. After the second month, your investment will have earned a second month of interest at 6%. However, this interest is earned on both your initial investment as well as your $5 interest earned last month. Therefore, your return this month will be greater than last month because your investment basis will be higher. Your investment will now be worth $1,010.03 ($1,005 * (1 + .06/12)). Notice that the interest earned this second month is $5.03, different from the $5.00 from last month. After the third month, your investment will earn interest on the $1,000, the $5.00 earned from the first month, and the $5.03 earned from the second month. This demonstrates the concept of compound interest: the monthly amount earned will continually increase as long as the APY doesn't decrease and the investment principal is not reduced. Banks in the U.S. are required to include the APY when they advertise their interest-bearing accounts. That tells potential customers exactly how much money a deposit will earn if it is deposited for 12 months. Variable APY vs. Fixed APY Savings or checking accounts may have either a variable APY or fixed APY. A variable APY is one that fluctuates and changes with macroeconomic conditions, while a fixed APY does not change (or changes much less frequently). One type of APY isn't necessarily better than the other. While locking into a fixed APY sounds appealing, consider periods when the Federal Reserve is raising rates and APYs increase each month. Most checking, savings, and money market accounts have variable APYs, though some promotional bank accounts or bank account bonuses may have a higher fixed APY up to a specific level of deposits. For example. a bank may reward 5% APY on the first $500 deposited, then pay 1% APY on all other deposits. APY and Risk In general, investors are usually awarded higher yields when they take on greater risk or agree to make sacrifices. The same can be said regarding the APY of checking, saving, and certificate of deposits. When a consumer holds money in a checking account, the consumer is asking to have their money on demand to pay for expenses. At a given notice, the consumer may need to pull out their debit card, buy groceries, and draw down their checking account. For this reason, checking accounts often have the lowest APY because there is no risk or sacrifice for the consumer. When a consumer holds money in a savings account, the consumer may not have immediate need. The consumer may need to transfer funds to their checking account before it can be used. Alternatively, you cannot write checks from normal savings accounts. For this reason, savings accounts usually have higher APYs than checking accounts because consumers face greater limits with savings accounts. Last, when consumers hold a certificate of deposit, the consumer is agreeing to sacrifice liquidity and access to funds in return for a higher APY. The consumer can't use or spend the money in a CD (or they can after paying a penalty to break the CD). For this reason, the APY on a CD is highest of three as the consumer is being rewarded for sacrificing immediate access to their funds. What Is APY and How Does It Work? APY is the annual percent yield that reflects compounding on interest. It reflects the actual interest rate you earn on an investment because it considers the interest you make on your interest. Consider the example above where the $100 investment yields 5% compounded quarterly. During the first quarter, you earn interest on the $100. However, during the second quarter, you earn interest on the $100 as well as the interest earned in the first quarter. What Is a Good APY Rate? APY rates fluctuate often, and a good rate at one time may no longer be a good rate due to shifts in macroeconomic conditions. In general, when the Federal Reserve raises interest rates, the APY on savings accounts tends to increase. Therefore, APY rates on savings accounts are usually better when monetary policy is tight or tightening. In addition, there are often low-cost, high-yield savings accounts that consistently deliver competitive APYs. How Is APY Calculated? APY standardizes the rate of return. It does this by stating the real percentage of growth that will be earned in compound interest assuming that the money is deposited for one year. The formula for calculating APY is: (1+r/n)n - 1, where r = period rate and n = number of compounding periods. How Can APY Assist an Investor? Any investment is ultimately judged by its rate of return, whether it's a certificate of deposit, a share of stock, or a government bond. APY allows an investor to compare different returns for different investments on an apples-to-apples basis, allowing them to make a more informed decision. What Is the Difference Between APY and APR? APY calculates that rate earned in one year if the interest is compounded and is a more accurate representation of the actual rate of return. APR includes any fees or additional costs associated with the transaction, but it does not take into account the compounding of interest within a specific year. Rather, it is a simple interest rate. The Bottom Line APY in banking is the actual rate of return you will earn on your checking or savings account. As opposed to simple interest calculations, APY considers the compounding effect of prior interest earned generating future returns. For this reason, APY will often be higher than simple interest, especially if the account compounds often. Another set of words I get asked about frequently is the difference between allude and elude. Even though these two words arent a set of homophones, theyre still tough to tell apart. They are relatively similar in their spelling, both sharing the same root word from the Latin ludere, meaning to play, and they are quite similar in their sound. Yet despite these similarities, they actually have very different meanings. Today, I want to go over their definitions and give you a few tricks to remember their difference. When to Use Allude Allude is a verb, meaning to make an indirect reference. For example, She kept alluding to him but would never say his name. The politician alluded to the recession by saying, Weve all had to make cuts. As you can see, to allude to (something) is to call attention to it or to hint at something, not to just state it plainly or directly. To allude is to give a glancing mention to something but never actually naming it. Instead, by alluding, you give the reader a means of making the identification for him or herself by hinting at it. You should be careful not to use allude when quote or referwould be betterthat is, where there is a direct mention or quotation. When to Use Elude Elude is also a verb, meaning to evade or escape (from danger, an enemy, or a pursuer) usually in a skillful or cunning way.For example, The robbers eluded the police by ducking into a dark alley. They eluded the zombies through their wit and survival training. Elude can also be applied to ideas or facts, to escape the memory or understanding of,and achievement or something desired and pursued, failed to be attained by. This scientific theory has always eluded me. The only thing that eludes him is a championship ring. As you can see, the definitions of elude and allude have virtually nothing to do with each other. Remember the Difference The way that I remember elude vs. allude is by looking at their first letter. Elude starts with an E and so does Escape. To elude is to escape. Allude starts with an A and so does Absent. Since to allude is to make an indirectreference, a directreference is absent. Quiz and Sentence Examples The deer ______ the hunters with its artful run. After coming back to work, she ______ to her health problems but wasnt specific. He was able to ______ arrest with the help of his lawyer. I tried to ______ to this earlier, but no one caught on. Courage is something that ______ him. Display the answers below Summary Its important to keep these words separated because their meanings have nothing in common, and if you mix them up, you might be accused of sloppy writing. Alludemeans to call attention to indirectly or hint at. Eludemean to escape from capture, from memory, or to be unattained by. See our other post for the difference between allusion and elusion. Answers What Is Leadership?live bet app Leadership in business is the capacity of a company's management to set and achieve challenging goals, take fast and decisive action when needed, outperform the competition, and inspire others to perform at the highest level they can. It can be difficult to place a value on leadership or other qualitative aspects of a company, versus quantitative metrics that are commonly tracked and much easier to compare between companies. Leadership can also speak to a more holistic approach, as in the tone a company's management sets or the culture of the company that management establishes. Individuals with strong leadership skills in the business world often rise to executive positions such as CEO (chief executive officer), COO (chief operating officer), CFO (chief financial officer), president, and chair. Key Takeaways Leadership is setting and achieving goals, tackling the competition, and solving problems decisively and quickly. Leadership also refers to the tone a company's management sets in terms of the corporate culture. Some people with strong leadership skills in the business world rise to become the CEO, COO, CFO, president, or chair of their companies. Understanding Leadership Leadership provides direction for a company and its workers. Employees need to know the direction in which the company is headed and who to follow to reach the destination. Leadership involves showing workers how to effectively perform their responsibilities and regularly supervising the completion of their tasks. Leadership is also about setting a positive example for staff to follow, by being excited about the work, being motivated to learn new things, and helping out as needed in both individual and team activities. Leadership involves setting and achieving goals, taking action, and beating the competition, but it also relates to the tone of the company's management and what kind of culture is built for the employees. The Components of Effective Leadership Effective leadership includes exhibiting a strong character. Leaders exhibit honesty, integrity, trustworthiness, and ethics. Leaders act in line with how they speak and earn the right to be responsible for others success in the company. Strong leadership involves clear communication skills. Leaders speak with and listen to staff members, respond to questions and concerns, and are empathetic. Leaders use effective communication skills for moving the company forward and achieving new levels of success. True leadership sees where the company is headed and plans the steps needed to get there. Visualizing what is possible, following trends in the industry, and taking risks to grow the business are all required of leaders. Productive leadership shows optimism and provides positive energy for staff. Good leaders are supportive and are truly concerned about the well-being of others. Leaders find answers to challenges and reassure and inspire workers when things go awry. Leaders find ways for staff to work together and achieve maximum results in an efficient and effective manner. Influential business leaders including Jack Welch, Warren Buffett, Bill Gates, and Steve Jobs have shaped their industries and the broader economyInvestopedia looks at how they developed winning strategies, inspired their employees, and achieved success. An Example of Leadership Jack Welch exhibited leadership as chief executive officer (CEO) of General Electric Co. from 1981 to 2001. He played an integral part in 600 acquisitions in emerging markets and increased GEs market value from $12 billion to $505 billion at the time of his retirement. Because the world is constantly changing, Welch insisted everyone at GE embrace change. To continue evolving company operations and producing greater output, managers, and employees had to continuously reinvent themselves and their work. Welch hired managers who shared his vision of GE, had endless amounts of energy, and were able to encourage employees to stay engaged in their work. He sought managers who created, developed, and refined ideas for the future and found ways to make them a reality. He also insisted that managers work side-by-side with employees as a way of understanding what they were doing and why. As a result of Welchs leadership style, managers and employees were more empowered, products gained higher quality, and customer satisfaction and profits increased dramatically. What Are Some Qualities of an Effective Leader? There are several qualities that a good leader should have. Among these include the ability to motivate individuals, a willingness to listen, being trustworthy, having competence, decisiveness, good communication skills, and selflessly understanding the goals of the team or organization. What Are Some Negative Traits in a Leader? Not all leaders are effective, and even good leaders can have their faults. Some negative qualities commonly found in leaders include selfishness, quickness to anger, impatience, rudeness, inconsistency, micro-managing, and incompetence. What Are Some Different Leadership Styles? There are different ways to be an effective leader. One is to lead by example, showing others how to proceed and coaching them. Another is to delegate tasks to others based on their skills and experience. A third is to direct others from a position of authority. Finally, a good leader can be supportive and help team members achieve their goals. What Is Treaty Reinsurance?visa poker rtp gates of olympus Treaty reinsurance is insurance purchased by an insurance company from another insurer. The company that issues the insurance is called the cedent, who passes on all the risks of a specific class of policies to the purchasing company, which is the reinsurer. Treaty reinsurance is one of the three main types of reinsurance contracts. The two others are facultative reinsurance and excess of loss reinsurance. Key Takeaways Treaty reinsurance is insurance purchased by an insurance company from another insurer. The issuing company is called the cedent, while the reinsurer is the purchasing company, which assumes the risks specified in the contract for a premium. Treaty reinsurance gives the ceding insurer more security for its equity and more stability when unusual or major events occur. The two types of treaty reinsurance contracts are proportional and non-proportional contracts. Treaty reinsurance is one type of reinsurance, the others being facultative reinsurance and excess of loss reinsurance. Treaty reinsurance is less transactional and less likely to involve risks that can be rejected. Understanding Treaty Reinsurance Treaty reinsurance represents a contract between the ceding insurance company and the reinsurer who agrees to accept the risks of a predetermined class of policies over a period of time. When insurance companies underwrite a new policy, they agree to take on additional risk in exchange for a premium. The more policies an insurer underwrites, the more risk it assumes. One way an insurer can reduce its exposure is to cede some of the risk to a reinsurance company in exchange for a fee. Reinsurance allows the insurer to free up risk capacity and to protect itself from high severity claims. Even though the reinsurer may not immediately underwrite each individual policy, it still agrees to cover all the risks in a treaty reinsurance contract. By signing a treaty reinsurance contract, the reinsurer and the ceding insurance company indicate the business relationship will likely be long-term. The long-term nature of the agreement allows the reinsurer to plan out how to achieve a profit because it knows the type of risk it is taking on, and it is familiar with the ceding company. Treaty reinsurance contracts can be both proportional and non-proportional. With proportional contracts, the reinsurer agrees to take on a specific percentage share of policies, for which it will receive that proportion of premiums. If a claim is filed, it will pay the stated percentage as well. With a non-proportional contract, however, the reinsurance company agrees to pay out claims if they exceed a specified amount during a certain period of time. Advantages of Treaty Reinsurance By covering itself against a class of predetermined risks, treaty reinsurance gives the ceding insurer more security for its equity and more stability when unusual or major events occur. Reinsurance also allows an insurer to underwrite policies that cover a larger volume of risks without excessively raising the costs of covering its solvency margins. In fact, reinsurance makes substantial liquid assets available for insurers in case of exceptional losses. Treaty vs. Facultative vs. Excess of Loss Reinsurance Treaty reinsurance differs from facultative reinsurance. Treaty reinsurance involves a single contract covering a type of risk and does not require the reinsurance company to provide a facultative certificate each time a risk is transferred from the insurer to the reinsurer. Facultative risk, on the other hand, allows the reinsurer to accept or reject individual risks. Moreover, it is a type of reinsurance for a single or a specific package of risks. That means both the reinsurer and the cedent agree on what risks will be covered in the agreement. These agreements are generally negotiated separately for each policy. The expenses involved in underwriting facultative contracts are thus much more expensive than a treaty reinsurance agreement. Treaty reinsurance is less transactional and less likely to involve risks that would have otherwise been rejected from reinsurance treaties. Excess of loss reinsurance is a non-proportional form of reinsurance. In an excess of loss contract, the reinsurer agrees to pay the total amount of losses or a certain percentage of losses above a certain limit to the cedent. Excess of loss reinsurance is less similar to standard insurance, like treaty and facultative reinsurance are, oftentimes requiring both the cedent and reinsurer to share in the losses. What Is Accrual Accounting?casino 777 casino casino 100 bonus Accrual accounting is a financial accounting method that allows a company to record revenue before receiving payment for goods or services sold and record expenses as they are incurred. In other words, the revenue earned and expenses incurred are entered into the company's journal regardless of when money exchanges hands. Accrual accounting is usually compared to cash basis of accounting, which records revenue when the goods and services are actually paid for. Learn more about accrual accounting and how it differs from the other popular accounting method, cash accounting. Key Takeaways: Accrual accounting is an accounting method where revenue or expenses are recorded when a transaction occurs vs. when payment is received or made. The method follows the matching principle, which says that revenues and expenses should be recognized in the same period. Accrual accounting uses the double-entry accounting method. Accrual accounting is required for companies with average revenues of $25 million or more over three years. Cash accounting is the other accounting method, which recognizes transactions only when payment is exchanged. How To Decipher Accrual Accounting How Accrual Accounting Works 1:37 The general concept of accrual accounting is that accounting journal entries are made when a good or service is provided rather than when payment is made or received. Entries are also made for debts and payments due. This method allows the current and future cash inflows or outflows to be combined to give a more accurate picture of a company's current and long-term finances. Accrual accounting follows the matching principal, which states that revenues and expenses should be recorded in the same period. Accrual accounting is encouraged by International Financial Reporting Standards(IFRS) and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). As a result, it has become the standard accounting practice for most companies except for very small businesses and individuals. Qualifying for Accrual Accounting Larger companies are required to use the accrual method of accounting if their average gross receipt of revenues is more than $25 million over the previous three years. If a company does not meet the average revenue requirement, it can choose to use cash basis or accrual as its accounting method. Accrual accounting is always required for companies that carry inventory or make sales on credit, regardless of the company size or revenue. Benefits of Accrual Accounting The accrual method does provide a more accurate picture of the company's current condition, but its relative complexity makes it more expensive to implement. This method arose from the increasing complexity of business transactions and a desire for more accurate financial information. Selling on credit, and projects that provide revenue streams over a long period, affect a company's financial condition at the time of a transaction. Therefore, it makes sense that such events should also be reflected in the financial statements during the same reporting period that these transactions occur. Under accrual accounting, firms have immediate feedback on their expected cash inflows and outflows, making it easier for businesses to manage their current resources and plan for the future. Accrual accounting provides a more accurate picture of a companys financial position. However, many small businesses use cash accounting because it is less confusing. Accrual Accounting vs. Cash Accounting Accrual accounting can be contrasted with cash accounting, which recognizes transactions only when there is an exchange of cash. Additionally, cash basis and accrual differ in the way and time transactions are entered. Cash Basis of Accounting Cash accounting uses transactions when payments are made. For example, consider a consulting company that provides a $5,000 service to a client on Oct. 30. The client received the bill for services rendered and made a cash payment on Nov. 25. Under the cash basis method, the consultant would record an owed amount of $5,000 by the client on Oct. 30, and enter $5,000 in revenue when it is paid on Nov. 25 and record it as paid. Accrual Basis of Accounting In contrast, accrual accounting uses a technique called double-entry accounting. When the consulting company provided the service, it would enter a debit of $5,000 in accounts receivable (debits increase an asset account). When the payment is made on Nov. 25, the consultant credits (credits decrease an asset account) the accounts receivable by $5,000 and credits the service revenues account, a revenue account (credits increase a revenue account ) with $5,000. The received capital can then be moved to other accounts, such as free cash, if neededthe company uses the same double-entry method to enter which account the capital came from and is moved to. How Do You Explain Accrual to Non-Accountants? Accrual accounting uses the double-entry accounting method, where payments or reciepts are recorded in two accounts at the time the transaction is initiated, not when they are made. What Is the Difference Between Cash Accounting and Accrual Accounting? Cash accounting records payments and receipts when they are recieved. Accrual records payments and receipts when services or good are provided or debt is incurred. What Is Accrual Journal Entry? The accounting journal is the first entry in the accounting process where transactions are recorded as they occur. An accrual, or journal entry, is made when a transaction occurs. What Are the 3 Accounting Methods? The three accounting methods are cash basis of accounting, accrual basis of accounting, and a hybrid of the two called modified cash basis of accounting. The Bottom Line Accrual accounting is an accounting method in which payments and expenses are credited and debited when earned or incurred. Accrual accounting differs from cash basis accounting, where expenses are recorded when payment is made and revenues recorded when cash is received. Accrual accounting uses double-entry accounting, where there are generally two accounts used when entering a transaction. This method is more accurate than cash basis accounting because it tracks the movement of capital through a company and helps it prepare its financial statements. Dankworth / (dkw) / New Word List Save This adventures beyond wonderland liveWord! / (dkw) /Save ThisWord! nounSir John (Philip William). 19272010, British jazz composer, bandleader, and saxophonist: married to Cleo Laine Words nearby Dankworth QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!QuestionDanish West Indies, Danite, dank, danke, danke schon, Dankworth, Danl., Danmark, Dannay, D'Annunzio, DannyCollins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 The US Capitol building is seen in Washington, D.C. Nov. 10, 2022. (Xinhua) Intense partisan struggles between Democrats and Republicans in the US will be further intensified, said analysts on Thursday as Republicans captured control of the US House of Representatives.Republicans are believed to compete with Democrats using a more hostile and hawkish approach against China, and observers noted China-US relations will be more uncertain and that more tensions are very likely to emerge.Facing such a situation, the White House, the administration of President Joe Biden, need to play a responsible role to balance and manage the risks, as Biden has repeatedly stated that he wants to set "guardrails" for the bilateral ties to prevent conflict and a new cold war, Chinese experts said.According to Reuters, the latest victory gives Republicans the power to rein in Biden's agenda, as well as to launch politically damaging probes of the Biden administration and his family. But it fell far short of the "red wave" the party had hoped for.Diao Daming, an associate professor at the Renmin University of China in Beijing, told the Global Times on Thursday that Republicans failed to take the Senate, so on agenda setting, the party has gained limited influence. But they can exercise veto power against agendas that Biden wants to advance, so the partisan struggles will be further intensified, and Biden's governance will meet more obstacles.A split US Congress - which in January will end two years of unified Democratic control in Washington DC - is sure to complicate the second half of Biden's term, as Republicans gain the ability to launch investigations and block legislation, the Washington Post reported Wednesday.Diao said Republicans are likely to launch investigations on many issues against the Biden administration, such as the pullout from Afghanistan, failed handling over the COVID-19 pandemic, and even targeting the president's son Hunter Biden. "To make Joe Biden look like an impeached president, to damage his image may give Republicans greater chance in the presidential election in 2024."Diao also said, "Republicans will use their power to defend Trump from investigations launched by Democrats, as some Republicans have threatened the Department of Justice of cutting its budget if it keeps 'prosecuting' the former president by investigation."Besides more intensified partisan struggles between the Senate and the House, more struggles will occur between the White House and the Capitol Hill, Li Haidong, a professor from the Institute of International Relations at the China Foreign Affairs University, told the Global Times on Thursday.But Li saw from the midterms results that "centrists in both Democrats and Republicans are rising, and the extreme forces like the far-right and far-left are losing influence."If Republicans want to win in 2024, they can't split themselves from Trump, as Trump's popularity is still unshakable within the party, so some experts said it's likely to see Trump team up with another candidate with similar ideology but more favored by the pro-establishment elites, such as Florida's governor Ronald Dion DeSantis.Republicans like Kevin McCarthy have already vowed more hostile actions against China before the midterm elections, such as further decoupling, to reduce US-China interdependency, and to set a special committee on China affairs. All of these are serving Republicans' goal to win over Democrats on dominance in policymaking on China, Diao said.Bloomberg reported Thursday that Republicans are expected to pressure Biden to pursue a more hawkish approach to China now that they've won control of the House of Representatives.Representative Michael McCaul, the Republican in line to head the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said his top priority will be competing with a rising China, including monitoring high-tech exports, Reuters reported.Republicans in the House will likely use the Taiwan question to provoke China and could mimic what Pelosi did in August, adding new danger to the peace and stability of the Taiwan Straits, experts said.On climate change, one of the very few topics that the US and China can have concrete dialogues and cooperation, Republicans will bring more difficulties to Biden, they said.Lu Xiang, an expert on US studies and research fellow at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times on Thursday that "if Biden wants to prevent direct conflict with China and a new cold war, just as what he reiterated in the meeting with China's top leader, he should pay efforts balancing Republicans' potential provocative moves in the future."If Biden decides to compete with Republicans by racing to be tougher toward China, the bilateral ties will break "guardrails" that he claims to want to build for bilateral relations, and eventually get out of control, Lu said.Intensifying partisan struggles means narrowing US' flexibility on China policy, while China will cast its influence to guide the relationship and try to minimize US-caused damages, Li said. What Is Human Resources (HR)?help with cryptocurrency Human resources (HR) is the division of a business that is charged with finding, screening, recruiting, and training job applicants. It also administers employee-benefit programs. HR plays a key role in helping companies deal with a fast-changing business environment and a greater demand for quality employees in the 21st century. John R. Commons, an American institutional economist, first coined the term human resource in his book The Distribution of Wealth, published in 1893. However, it was not until the 20th century that HR departments were formally developed and tasked with addressing misunderstandings between employees and their employers. Key Takeaways Human resources (HR) is the division of a business responsible for finding, screening, recruiting, and training job applicants. HR also administers employee-benefit programs. A human resources department also handles compensation and benefits, and employee terminations. It must keep up to date with any laws that may affect the company and its employees. Many companies have moved traditional HR administrative duties such as payroll and benefits to outside vendors. Understanding Human Resources (HR) An HR department is an essential component of any business, regardless of an organization's size. It is tasked with maximizing employee productivity and protecting the company from any issues that may arise within the workforce. HR responsibilities include compensation and benefits, recruitment, firing, and keeping up to date with any laws that may affect the company and its employees. Key HR Activities Research conducted by The Conference Board, a member-driven economic think tank, found six key, people-related activities that HR must effectively do to add value to a company. They are: Managing and using people effectively Tying performance appraisal and compensation to competencies Developing competencies that enhance individual and organizational performance Increasing the innovation, creativity, and flexibility necessary to enhance competitiveness Applying new approaches to work process design, succession planning, career development, and inter-organizational mobility Managing the implementation and integration of technology through improved staffing, training, and communication with employees HR Management Strategies Beginning in the 1980s, there was a push for strategic initiatives within HR departments. This movement was based on research related to the impact of employee-related issues on a firm's long-term business success. Collectively, these strategies are sometimes referred to as human resource management (HRM) strategies. HRM is a comprehensive approach to managing employees and an organization's culture and environment. It focuses on the recruitment, management, and general direction of the people who work in an organization. An HR department that adopts HRM strategies typically plays a more active role in improving an organizations workforce. It may recommend processes, approaches, and business solutions to management. Google is one example of an organization that has adopted a more active approach to employee relations through its HR department. The company offers many employee perks. The company headquarters has a wide range of facilities for employees, including wellness centers, roller hockey rinks, and horseshoe pits. For Google, happy employees are equivalent to productive employees. In 1901, The National Cash Register Company, known today as NCR Corporation, established a personnel department (the HR predecessor) to manage wages, workplace safety, and employee concerns. Special Considerations Since the mid-20th century, some companies have been outsourcing certain of the more traditional administrative, transactional HR functions in an effort to free the department to recommend and implement more meaningful, value-adding programs that impact the business in positive ways. Functions that may be outsourced in this process include payroll administration, employee benefits, recruitment, background checks, exit interviews, risk management, dispute resolution, safety inspection, and office policies. The use of modern tools, such as recruitment software, can help to improve the efficiency of HR departments. In turn, that can give them more leeway to focus on adding ever-greater value. What Is the Role of Human Resources? A human resources department is focused on the recruiting and retention of employees within a company. HR typically finds, hires (and fires), and trains employees. It oversees employee relations. It manages benefit programs. It's the place an employee goes with questions about their position at the company, to address concerns, and to air grievances. What Is Human Resources Management (HRM)? HRM is a strategic approach to managing company employees, the work culture, and the work environment so that people can function as effectively and productively as possible. Typically, it involves using metrics to measure workforce success. What Are the 5 Types of Human Resources? There are numerous, important human resources functions carried out by an HR Department. Five well-known types of these responsibilities could include: Recruiting, hiring, and onboarding new employees Handling employee compensation and benefits Offering employee job/career development Addressing work-related issues of individual employees Developing policies that affect a working environment company-wide What Is Lead Time?vegas2web mobile Lead time is the amount of time that passes from the start of a process until its conclusion. Companies review lead time in manufacturing, supply chain management, and project management during pre-processing, processing, and post-processing stages. By comparing results against established benchmarks, they can determine where inefficiencies exist. Reducing lead time can streamline operations and improve productivity, increasing output and revenue. By contrast, longer lead times negatively affect sales and manufacturing processes. Key Takeaways Lead time measures how long it takes to complete a process from beginning to end. In manufacturing, lead time often represents the time it takes to create a product and deliver it to a consumer. Lead time is calculated by adding any combination of the number of days to procure materials, manufacture goods, and deliver finished products. Factors that can impact lead time include lack of raw materials, breakdown of transportation, labor shortages, natural disasters, and human errors. In some cases, companies can improve lead times by implementing automated stock replenishment and just-in-time (JIT) strategies. Watch Now: What Is Lead Time? Understanding Lead Time 1:11 Production processes and inventory management can affect lead time. In regards to production, building all elements of a finished product onsite may take longer than completing some items offsite. Transportation issues can delay delivery of necessary parts, halting or slowing production and reducing output and return on investment (ROI). Using locally sourced parts and labor can shorten lead time and speed production, and offsite sub-assemblies can save additional time. Reducing production time allows companies to increase production during periods of high demand. Quicker production can increase sales, customer satisfaction, and the companys bottom line. Efficient inventory management is necessary to maintain production schedules and meet consumer demand. Stockouts occur when inventory, or stock, is unavailable preventing the fulfillment of a customer's order or product assembly. Production stops if an organization underestimates the amount of stock needed or fails to place a replenishment order and suppliers cannot replenish materials immediately. This can be costly for a company's bottom line. One solution is to use a vendor-managed inventory (VMI) program, which provides automated stock replenishment. These programs often come from an off-site supplier, using just-in-time (JIT) inventory management for ordering and delivering components based on usage. A great example of lead time is the time needed to process a passport. If you're planning on traveling internationally, prepare to get your passport renewed months in advance of your trip; the government estimates the lead time for routine passport processing as 8 to 11 weeks. How to Calculate Lead Time Lead time can be broken in several different components: the pre-processing, the processing, and the post-processing. These may be defined or stated differently, but the general formula to calculate lead time is: Lead Time = Pre-Processing Time + Processing Time + Post-Processing Time For a manufacturing company, the pre-processing time is the procurement stage where raw materials are sourced and delivered to its manufacturing headquarters or processing plant. The processing time is the manufacturing stage. The post-processing time is the stage of processing the order and delivering the final good to the customer. Lead Time for Manufacturing Company = Procurement Time (for raw materials) + Manufacturing Time + Shipping Time For a retail company, there is no manufacturing time as the retail firm does not manufacture its own good. In addition, the procurement time is different as instead of procuring raw materials, it sources final products to then sell directly to customers. Lead Time for Retail Company = Procurement Time (for final products) + Shipping Time Lead Time and Supply Chain The lead time varies among supply chain sources, causing difficulty in predicting when to expect the delivery of items and coordinating production. Frequently the result is excess inventory, which places a strain on a companys budget. Lead time scheduling allows for the receipt of necessary components to arrive together, and reduces shipping and receiving costs. Some lead time delays cannot be anticipated. Shipping obstructions due to raw material shortages, natural disasters, human error, and other uncontrollable issues will affect lead time. For critical parts, a company may employ a backup supplier to maintain production. Working with a supplier who keeps inventory on hand while continuously monitoring a companys usage helps alleviate the issues resulting from unanticipated events. Stockpiling necessary parts may be cost-prohibitive, but reducing the number of surplus parts also helps place a ceiling on production costs. One solution is for companies to use kitting services to organize their inventory. With kitting services, inventory items are grouped based on their specific use in the project. Workers save time choosing from smaller lots of parts, keeping production more organized and efficient. Using offsite assembly in overseas markets instead of shipping completed goods can help companies save money on tariffs. The Importance of Short Lead Time Short lead time is important as it impacts the financial, emotional, and operational aspects of a company and its relationship with its customer. Several specific examples of the importance of short lead time include: Shorter lead time may lead to happier customers. At its core, lead time is the concept of getting a good to the customer the fastest. Once a customer places an order, they most often do not want to wait unnecessarily long periods of time. When lead time is short, customers get their product faster and will likely have greater customer satisfaction in their buying experience. At its core, lead time is the concept of getting a good to the customer the fastest. Once a customer places an order, they most often do not want to wait unnecessarily long periods of time. When lead time is short, customers get their product faster and will likely have greater customer satisfaction in their buying experience. Shorter lead time may lead to less obsolescence. Goods with long lead times run the risk of obsolescence by the time they are manufactured. When a product has a short turnaround window, the company runs a smaller risk of the good no longer being in demand by the time it is finished. Goods with long lead times run the risk of obsolescence by the time they are manufactured. When a product has a short turnaround window, the company runs a smaller risk of the good no longer being in demand by the time it is finished. Shorter lead time may lead to less labor costs. If a company prioritizes reviewing its internal manufacturing process, it may cut out inefficiencies and eliminate unnecessary labor hours. This results in reduced costs and more efficient utilization of workers. If a company prioritizes reviewing its internal manufacturing process, it may cut out inefficiencies and eliminate unnecessary labor hours. This results in reduced costs and more efficient utilization of workers. Shorter lead time may lead to more orders. If the market realizes one company has a shorter lead time, that company may end up with more orders especially if demand for its product is imminent. All else being equal, when two companies have a similar product, the market may be more likely to go with the company that can furnish the good faster. If the market realizes one company has a shorter lead time, that company may end up with more orders especially if demand for its product is imminent. All else being equal, when two companies have a similar product, the market may be more likely to go with the company that can furnish the good faster. Shorter lead time may lead to more efficient capital deployment. When cash is tied up in raw materials, it must wait to be processed into a finished good and sold before it gets converted back to cash. The longer this process, the longer the company is without capital it could be using to expand operations or strategically grow. How to Reduce Lead Time Though an entire manufacturing and distribution process may be complex with many stages, companies can take steps to reduce lead time and shorten the number of days for each process. Consider the following ways to reduce lead time: Eliminate Unnecessary Processes. The easiest way to trim lead time is to eliminate steps or procedures that are not needed to facilitate a sale. This may mean sacrificing multiple reviews of quality control or assessing the efficiency of the manufacturing process. The easiest way to trim lead time is to eliminate steps or procedures that are not needed to facilitate a sale. This may mean sacrificing multiple reviews of quality control or assessing the efficiency of the manufacturing process. Monitor Transportation Methods. Not all transportation methods are created equally, and some may simply be better options. This relationship is also not static; what may be ideal this month must change due to extenuating circumstances due to labor shortages, natural disasters, or government legislation. A company should always monitor what shipment methods it and its suppliers are using and see if there are preferable methods available. Not all transportation methods are created equally, and some may simply be better options. This relationship is also not static; what may be ideal this month must change due to extenuating circumstances due to labor shortages, natural disasters, or government legislation. A company should always monitor what shipment methods it and its suppliers are using and see if there are preferable methods available. Incentivize Better Service. Whether it is incentivizing external parties like suppliers or internal parties like employees, lead time may be reduced by setting targets/expectations and awarding those who meet those expectations. Though resulting in an additional cost to a company, the potential increase in sales quantity may outweigh the incentive or bonus payouts needed to move product faster. Whether it is incentivizing external parties like suppliers or internal parties like employees, lead time may be reduced by setting targets/expectations and awarding those who meet those expectations. Though resulting in an additional cost to a company, the potential increase in sales quantity may outweigh the incentive or bonus payouts needed to move product faster. Procure Differently. Some suppliers act more promptly than others; some suppliers may also be local and require shorter shipping expectations. When attempting to decrease lead time, a company should assess its current suppliers and see where there are efficiencies to be had. Some suppliers act more promptly than others; some suppliers may also be local and require shorter shipping expectations. When attempting to decrease lead time, a company should assess its current suppliers and see where there are efficiencies to be had. Carry Higher Inventory. On one hand, carrying more inventory results in higher storage, security, and insurance costs and has a greater risk of theft or obsolescence. Alternatively, having inventory on hand allows a company to not need to wait for shipments to arrive. On one hand, carrying more inventory results in higher storage, security, and insurance costs and has a greater risk of theft or obsolescence. Alternatively, having inventory on hand allows a company to not need to wait for shipments to arrive. Reorder More Often. If you don't want to carry more inventory, consider placing more frequent material orders. This may result in materials already being in transit before you realized you'd need them. Though you run the risk of ending up too much inventory on hand, the alternative is to preemptively plan excess inventory levels. If you don't want to carry more inventory, consider placing more frequent material orders. This may result in materials already being in transit before you realized you'd need them. Though you run the risk of ending up too much inventory on hand, the alternative is to preemptively plan excess inventory levels. Promote Internal Learning.The internal manufacturing process is only as efficient as the laborers who know the process. By prioritizing cross-training and learning opportunities, companies may end up with stronger labor numbers with staff more knowledgeable and proficient about the process. Types of Lead Time There are three primary types of lead time; each must be considered in conjunction with each other to set overall expectations of a manufacturing process. Therefore, these three primary types often flow into a fourth type of aggregated lead time. Customer Lead Time The customer lead time is the amount of time between when a customer places an order and when the customer receives the product. This includes the time between when a customer places an online order and the company receives the order confirmation. Then, it includes the entire manufacturing process, shipping process, and delivery process. Material Lead Time The material lead time is the amount of time between when a company becomes aware of a need for raw materials and when the materials are physically obtained. Companies are often alerted by inventory management systems when orders are processed. This lead time may be influenced by information systems that notify management when current inventory levels are low. It may also be impacted by ordering, shipping, delivery, and fulfillment by suppliers. Production Lead Time Once materials have been received, the production lead time kicks off. This is the amount of time between when a company has all necessary resources on hand to manufacture a product and when it completes the manufacturing process. Unlike other lead times, this entire lead time should be internally manageable and depends on internal factors such as waste, labor, equipment efficiency, PPE availability, and machinery downtime. Cumulative Lead Time Lead times above may be aggregated to create a fourth lead time, and companies may track different cumulative lead times. For example, a company may be interested in the internal lead time (i.e. when raw materials are sourced to when the final product is manufactured). Though it may seem bureaucratic, breaking lead time into the categories above helps a company identify the strong and weak points along the sale process. Factors That Affect Lead Time Analyzing the lead time formula for a manufacturing company, the factors that affect lead time can be broken into three categories: the procurement factors, the manufacturing factors, and the shipping factors. Procurement Lead Time Factors Procurement lead time factors all relate to the sourcing of raw materials for production. Well-established companies with strong relationships with suppliers may be less impacted by these factors; still, when relying to external companies, there is always the risk that lead time falters due to an external failure to deliver. Procurement lead time factors that increase lead time include: The company is not yet aware what raw materials they need. The company is slow to submit a purchase request. The company does not have a select supplier for a specific raw material. The company wishes to negotiate the price or term or the purchase. The company has an elaborate inspection process for delivered goods. Manufacturing Lead Time Factors Manufacturing lead time factors are relatively all controllable for a company. This internal-only stage of the sale process means a company may change processes, personnel, or equipment to improve or worsen lead time. As opposed to the other two lead time factors, a company should have almost full discretion over the manufacturing lead time factors. These factors that result in longer lead times include: The layout or location of the processing plant(s) is inefficient. The company has inadequate power or utility service. The company struggles to have sufficient and proficient laborers. The company is unable to efficiently transfer finished goods to its warehouse for distribution. The company faces government regulation impeding or slowing the manufacturing process. Equipment failure or required periodic maintenance slow the production process. The company awaits specialized or custom parts needed to manufacture a good. The company must rework products due to lack of quality. Shipping Lead Time Factors When the finished product is sent to a customer, many factors are out of the hands of the company. Though the company can control how fast an item gets off the production line and onto a delivery vessel, a company is often at the whim of whatever delivery method they choose. These factors include: The company selecting a slower, more cost effective method of delivery. Natural conditions or weather impede the delivery process. The company fails to collect accurate remittance information and must inefficiently redirect shipment. The company mishandles the shipment and must prepare a more secure, safe delivery. External factors such as disrupted supply chain management cause broad transportation issues. Example of Lead Time Imagine a large festival that takes place during the first week of August every year that attracts 100,000 people on average and typically sells 15,000 festival T-shirts. The vendor that supplies the T-shirts needs one business day to complete the shirt design, one business day to have it proofed and make any necessary fixes, one business day to print the shirts, and two business days to ship the items. The lead time in this example would be five business days. In other words, the festival organizers need to place their order with the T-shirt supplier at least five business days before the opening of the festival in order to get the shirts on time. Of course, that lead time can be shortened in some extreme situations if the buyer is willing to pay a premium. If T-shirt sales on the first day of the festival exceed expectations, festival organizers may decide to order additional shirts on the second day with the hope that they can be delivered by the third day. Since the shirts have already been designed and approved, that means five days of lead time can be reduced to three. To meet that shortened lead time, the vendor would need to print the additional shirts as quickly as possible in order to ship them overnight for delivery the following morning. Additional factors can affect lead time in this example. If festival organizers want a certain percentage of the T-shirts to be fuchsia and the vendor does not regularly keep fuchsia T-shirts in stock, that can increase the lead time because the vendor will need to order shirts in that color. What Are the Types of Lead Time? The main types of lead time are customer lead time, material lead time, factory, or production lead time, and cumulative lead time. The first three types of lead time are summed to arrive at the fourth type of lead time. What Are the Main Components of Lead Time? The main factors that make up lead time are preprocessing, processing, waiting, storage, transportation, and inspection. The factors are often compiled into the three main stages of an order: the before (pre-processing), the during (processing), and the after (shipping). What Is Lead Time in Shipping? Lead time in shipping is the period of time between when an order is first received and when it reaches the customer. It includes the processing of the order and then the time spent delivering a package. The Bottom Line Lead time describes the amount of time it takes to complete a specific process. In business, lead time is often used to describe the amount of time it takes to process an order, manufacture a product, delivery a good, or a combination of these processes. Companies with shorter lead time may have less finished inventory on hand, more efficient processes that may cost less, and generally happier customers. At some point in our lives, we have all had our family or friends recall a dream to us that they recently had. Maybe some of them were telling a funny story about an unlikely situation they imagined while they were bored or intoxicated. Maybe they were in outer space or deep-sea diving. While recalling your own personal dreams, however, have you ever wondered what the proper past tense of to dream is? Is it dreamedor dreamt? Is one of these conjugations more correct than the other? Continue reading to find out. What is the Difference Between Dreamed and Dreamt? In this post, I will compare dreamed vs. dreamt. I will provide sentence examples for each spelling to illustrate its proper context. Plus, I will demonstrate a mnemonic that will help you decide whether to use dreamt or dreamed. When to Use Dreamed What does dreamed mean? Dreamed is the past tense, and past participle, of the verb dream, which means to imagine or to experience the thoughts and sensations of an active mind while asleep. To dreamis also sometimes used figuratively as a synonym of the words design or create, as in the phrase to dream up. For example, I dreamed that I won millions of dollars gambling in Las Vegas, and then flew away on a dragon. Our engineers dreamed up these plans for an orbital battle station; try not to lose them. I dreamed a dream of time gone by, when hope was young and life worth living. Ross, the son of a lawyer, grew up in suburban New Jersey and dreamed of being a writer. The Wall Street Journal At the risk of stating the obvious, dreamed should be pronounced so that it rhymes with seemed and beamed. When to Use Dreamt What does dreamt mean? Dreamt is an alternative form of the same past tense conjugation. It can be used in all the same contexts as dreamed. While not incorrect, this variant is less common in both American and British English. It is pronounced so that it rhymes with tempt and unkempt. Here are some examples, Those figures are not accurate; the accountant must have been drunk when he dreamt them up. Jennie dreamt that her brother ate seven large pizzas without getting sick. Every soldier on the battlefield dreamt of home on Christmas Eve. Have you ever dreamt about failing an exam? If so, youre in good company. The Guardian Which Word Should I Use? Dreamed and dreamt each form the past tense and past participle of the verb dream. They are both correct, but dreamed is more common in both British and American English. The British tend to use dreamt more often than the Americans, but still not as much as dreamed. Additionally, dreamed is probably considered more refined than dreamt. For example, As a child, I dreamed of being a millionaire. This seems more refined than, As a child, I dreamt of being a millionaire. Since dreamed is the more common variant, it is probably the better choice in formal writing scenarios. Heres a helpful trick to remember dreamtvs. dreamed. Dreamedrhymes with esteemed, which is an easy way to remember to use it in formal settings. Summary Is it dreamt or dreamed? Dreamed and dreamt are two forms of the same word, which is the past tense and past participle of the verb dream. They are interchangeable. Both are correct, but dreamed is more common in all English-speaking regions, and is therefore a practical choice for professional or educational writing. Since dreamed rhymes with esteemed, it should be easy to remember that dreamed is better in these esteemed types of writing. In summary, There are several words and phrases in English that look like they should mean the same thing, and even sound identical when spoken aloud. Nevertheless, in many cases there are subtle differences. Altogether and all together sound the same, but they actually have separate functions in a sentence, and they cant be used interchangeably in any context. Continue reading to discover the proper usage of altogether and all together. What is the Difference Between Altogether and All Together? In this article, I will compare altogether vs. all together. I will also use each in a sentence to illustrate the proper use and context. Plus, I will discuss a useful memory tool that will allow you to remember whether to use altogether or all together in your writing. When to Use Altogether What does altogether mean? Altogetheris an adverb. It means taken as a whole, in such a way as to be synonymous with completely, totally, wholly. Here are some examples: Jen has altogether too much class to be consorting with this bunch of hooligans. The companys liquid assets are altogether worth over 15 billion dollars. Today there is one: neither working nor seeking workthat is, men who are outside the labor force altogether. The Wall Street Journal Sometimes, the words use more closely approximates that of outright, but its meaning is still largely the same. See the sentence below. At the alumni banquet this year, leggings have been banned altogether. When to Use All Together What does all together mean? All togetheris a phrase that means in the same place or at the same time as a complete group. It is never used as a phrasal adverb. See the following examples: All together, now: No taxation without representation! Petrov, Yelena and Dmitri were all together at the diner, when suddenly, disaster struck. Find the muddy towels, gather them all together, and wash them with the hose. Its not hard to imagine the TV show Arrested Development as another influence: Now the story of a wealthy family who lost everything. . . . (In this reading, Rebecca is the Michael Bluth character just trying to hold it all together.) The New York Times Trick to Remember the Difference Now, lets go over a trick to remember all togethervs. altogether. Altogetheris only used as an adverb. For all usages other than as an adverb, use the phrase all togetherinstead. There is an easy way to remember when to use all together. Look at the individual words that make up the phrase. If you were to say your family is all together, that would mean your family is all here or they are all present. When thinking about this phrase, just substitute all together with the phrase all here. By remembering this mnemonic, you should be able to keep altogetherand all togetherstraight in your mind and in your writing. Summary Is it altogether or all together?While these two words sound the same when spoken, they actually have subtle differences in their meanings. Altogetheris an adverb, which is a synonym of its fellow adverbs completely and outright. It means taken as a whole. All together, meanwhile, is a phrase that refers to an entire group, such as a table of friends who are sitting in a diner, or everyone in a crowd. Altogetheris only used as an adverb, while all togetheris never used as an adverb but, instead, is used in all senses other than an adverb. You can remember the difference between these two words by linking the phrases all togetherand all herein your mind. If you still have trouble deciding whether to choose all togetheror altogetherin a sentence, you can reread this article for a reminder. What Is the Obelisk Consensus Algorithm?paypal deposit betting sites Obelisk is a blockchain consensus algorithm used by the Skycoin ecosystem, designed to eliminate the shortcomings of proof-of-work (PoW) and proof-of-stake (PoS) algorithms. According to its creators, Obelisk also reduces the need for mining, significantly improves transaction speed, and delivers enhanced security. Key Takeaways Obelisk is the proprietary blockchain consensus algorithm of the Skycoin ecosystem. Obelisk attempts to address the issues with consensus mechanisms by distributing influence over a network, according to a concept called a web-of-trust. The Obelisk consensus uses separate nodes for consensus and block creation. Understanding the Obelisk Consensus Algorithm Blockchains operate globally as self-regulated, decentralized platforms without any single authority. Therefore, a real-time, reliable, and secure network mechanism is required to ensure the authenticity of the transactions occurring on the network and reach a consensus about the ledger's status. This task is performed by the consensus algorithm. While the PoW and PoS systems are the two most commonly used consensus algorithms, they both have some drawbacks. For example, PoW is very energy-intensive, and PoS can promote cryptocurrency hoarding instead of spending. Obelisk's Consensus Process Obelisk attempts to circumvent the problems of PoW and PoS by distributing influence over the network, according to a concept called a web-of-trust. This concept uses various network nodes and makes consensus decisions depending upon the influence score each node creates. In Obelisk, all nodes have a list of nodes that they are subscribed to. This creates node density. The nodes with the most density have more influence on the network. In terms of roles and activities performed, there are two types of nodes that participate in Obelisk: block-generating nodes and consensus nodes. Nodes can take either role because they are interchangeable. Block-generating nodes collect new transactions, authenticate them, package the verified transactions in a new block, and broadcast the block to the network. Consensus nodes collect the blocks generated by block-generating nodes and put them in a separate container (apart from the blockchain). It then identifies the block made by the largest number of block-generators. This block is called the local winner and qualifies to be added to the blockchain. Each consensus node maintains necessary statistics on local winners (as reported by other nodes). When local winners have been reported by the majority of the consensus nodes, it qualifies as a global winner and remains a part of the blockchain. However, if nodes decide otherwise, then one of the following actions occurs based on the available data and local logs: The nodes re-synchronize with the network The nodes drop from participating in consensus or block-making The nodes keep their blockchains and request an emergency stop How Is Obelisk Used? Obelisk is used by the Skycoin ecosystem. Skycoin is designed and advertised as an alternative to centralized internet control. The intent behind the project is for consumers to control the internet by purchasing or building Skyminer machines to run Skywirethe Internet Service Provider (ISP) alternativefrom their homes. The Skywire network built upon the Skycoin ecosystem creates a mesh of internet connectivity, which removes the requirement for an ISP. Skywire users are rewarded in Skycoin and Coin Hours for providing bandwidth to other users. What Is a Consensus Node? In the Skycoin network using Obelisk consensus, a consensus node collects blocks from block-generating nodes and determines which block was made by the largest number of block-generators. That block is added to the blockchain. What Is PoA Consensus? Proof-of-Authority consensus is a blockchain consensus mechanism where new blocks can only be created for the blockchain by nodes that have proven through authentication that they have the right to create a new block. How Does Blockchain Reach Consensus? Many different consensus algorithms are designed to bring a distributed ledger to a consensus. Most are constructed to have many transaction validators reach a majority agreement about the state of the blockchain and the transactions taking place. Investing in cryptocurrencies and other Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) is highly risky and speculative, and this article is not a recommendation by Investopedia or the writer to invest in cryptocurrencies or other ICOs. Since each individual's situation is unique, a qualified professional should always be consulted before making any financial decisions. Investopedia makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy or timeliness of the information contained herein. What Is a Layoff?myvegas slots best game 2021 A layoff is the temporary or permanent termination of employment by an employer for reasons unrelated to the employee's performance. Employees may be laid off when companies aim to cut costs, due to a decline in demand for their products or services, seasonal closure, or during an economic downturn. When laid off, employees lose all wages and company benefits but qualify for unemployment insurance or compensation. Laid-off employees often do not lose their investment in company retirement plans such as a 401K and may be entitled to a severance package. Key Takeaways A layoff is an involuntary separation from work through no fault of employees, often initiated by the employer for economic reasons to cut costs. A layoff differs from a firing for cause such as unacceptable workplace behavior, which generally does not qualify the fired worker for unemployment insurance. Mass layoffs can damage the economies of the surrounding communities, especially those dependent on a single employer or industry. Some employers may offer severance agreements to laid-off workers. Understanding Layoffs Layoffs typically affect groups of workers from several to thousands, as a result of an employer's effort to cut costs. That effort may be prompted by an economic downturn or corporate restructurings such as bankruptcy or a leveraged buyout by a private equity firm. Layoffs are understandably unpopular with workers whether employers call them "downsizing," "rightsizing," or "smart sizing." Layoffs may also be termed a "workforce reduction" or a "reduction in force." Employees in a late-career layoff may be offered "early retirement," replacing a paycheck with retirement benefits. Companies seeking to avoid or minimize layoffs may also offer longer-tenured workers a buyout as an inducement to leave voluntarily. In some cases, employers conduct layoffs even when their businesses are thriving, either to increase profits or amid a shift in markets served or operations. Layoff vs. Furlough vs. Firing A layoff is distinct from a furlough, in which workers are idled for a time as a result of plant repairs or another event requiring a temporary work halt. In contrast with laid-off workers, furloughed employees keep their job titles and employee benefits with the expectation that they will eventually return to work. Furloughs may also affect government employees when legislators are unable to agree on the appropriations required to pay their salaries. During a government shutdown, non-essential workers are typically furloughed, while workers in essential services may have to work with pay delayed until a funding agreement is reached. Furloughed workers may be eligible to collect unemployment insurance benefits depending on their state's eligibility requirements. An employee may be fired or terminated on the grounds of unsatisfactory performance, malfeasance, or breach of duty. If terminated for unacceptable workplace behavior, an employee generally does not qualify for unemployment insurance. Example of Mass Layoffs U.S. employers resorted to mass layoffs amid a drastic downturn in demand during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, as restrictions and contagion fears halted travel, shut restaurants, and idled many other service industries. U.S. employers cut more than 20 million jobs in April 2020 alone, and 22.4 million over two months ended the same month, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). To preserve jobs, the U.S. government offered the Paycheck Protection Program, loans subsidizing businesses' payroll costs that would be forgiven under certain conditions. The program encouraged businesses not to lay off workers during the pandemic. Layoff Statistics Because financial markets participants care most about total employment, they tend to overlook layoff statistics in favor of the fresher monthly data on nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate The monthly Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS), also from BLS, provides a combined count for layoffs and dischargesinvoluntary separations from employment, whether as a result of layoffs or for cause. In June 2022, BLS reported layoffs and discharges declined by 170,000 to 1.2 million in April 2022, the lowest monthly total in series history dating back to December 2000. In April 2022, layoffs and discharges affected 0.8% of the labor force. Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc., a provider of career outplacement services, publishes a monthly report on layoffs announcements. In May 2022, it tallied 24,286 announced job cuts by U.S. employers in April 2022, a 14% increase from March and a 6% rise from a year earlier. Despite the increase, the nearly 80,000 job cuts announced by employers during the first four months of 2022 represented the lowest January through April total in the history of the survey dating back to 1993. Special Considerations While laid-off workers bear the brunt of layoffs, losing wages and benefits along with the satisfaction, purpose, and sense of security work can impart, mass job losses can also hurt the workers who remain, their communities and the broader economy, and even the employer. For example, layoffs understandably disturb even the workers whose jobs are spared, increasing their anxiety and insecurity while lowering productivity and morale. Diminished employee productivity as a result of layoffs can in turn erode the cost savings from a layoff. According to some economic studies, layoffs "are more costly than many organizations realize," and companies that reduce their workforce without other changes are unlikely to see long-term improvement. Large layoffs can also inflict economic damage on the area where laid-off workers live, lowering demand for other goods and services and lowering tax revenue, especially if the area relies on a single employer or industry. What Should You Do When You Get Laid Off? The first step after a layoff is to carefully review your contract of employment, as well as any severance package your former employer may offer. This may include provisions on severance payments, employee benefits, and healthcare insurance. Employers may attach conditions to severance agreements, such as requiring you not to claim unemployment insurance. It may be a good idea to negotiate your severance agreement and have an attorney review any paperwork before you sign. What Happens to Your Health Insurance When You Get Laid Off? In most cases, your employer will stop paying for health insurance if you are laid off at the end of the month. After that, the federal COBRA program allows you to receive continued insurance for a term of 18 to 36 months, under certain conditions. COBRA coverage is significantly more expensive than employer-provided health insurance, so it may be better to seek coverage through one of the plans offered under the Affordable Care Act. How Long After Being Laid Off Can I File for Unemployment? According to the U.S. Department of Labor, you should file for unemployment insurance benefits as soon as possible if you become unemployed. To be eligible for unemployment insurance, you must be laid off or fired through no fault of your own, and meet certain wage and work requirements, such as length of time at your previous job. Some states may have additional requirements. What Happens to My 401(k) After a Layoff? Depending on the size of your 401(k), you may be able to leave it with your former employer. However, it may be a better idea to transfer plan proceeds either to a new employer (if they offer a similar plan) or into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). It is essential to transfer the balance through a direct transfer between financial institutions rather than allowing the administrator of your former employer's 401(k) plan to cut you a check. Otherwise, you may incur an avoidable tax liability. Who Gets Laid Off During a Merger? Following mergers or acquisitions, many companies seek to eliminate redundancies in their expanded workforce. This will typically affect the C-suite and any other area where the new company has two departments performing similar functions. Since it's hard to predict which workers will be laid off, mergers are a common source of employee anxiety. The Bottom Line Layoffs are a painful but expected fact of life in a market economy exposed to competition and trade. Layoffs can be damaging psychologically as well as financially to the affected workers as well as their families, communities, colleagues, and other businesses. Government programs providing unemployment insurance and retraining can assist the newly unemployed. English has both regular and irregular verbs. Regular verbs can be conjugated into past tense by adding -ed. Irregular verbs are conjugated into the past tense in exciting and unpredictable ways. It can be difficult to remember which verbs fall into which category. Some verbs seem to be equally at home in both. The verb drag, which means to pull or tow something, is one such verb. At first glance, dragged and drug both seem to be correct conjugations. Read on to find out which word is correct, and whether you should use dragged or drug. What is the Difference Between Dragged and Drug? In this article, I will compare dragged vs. drug. Ill use each in a sentence, and Ill give you a helpful trick to remember which word is which. When to Use Dragged What does dragged mean?Dragis a regular verb, which means it can be conjugated into the past tense simply by adding -ed to the end of the word to form dragged. I drag: present tense. He dragged: past tense. Draggedis considered the proper conjugation of drag in the past tense. Here are some examples of its accepted usage: The movie dragged on and on until no one cared about the ending. Marla dragged the sled behind her snowmobile while her children laughed and screamed. The economy expanded at an annualized rate of 1.2 percent in the second quarter, dragged down by lower business and government spending and excess inventories. The New York Times When to Use Drug What does drug mean?Drugis never the correct choice for the past tense of drag. Of course, drug has other uses. It primarily acts also a noun, where it refers to a medication or any addictive substance. It can also be a verb in this sense, which is unrelated to draggedentirely. To drug someone or something is to administer a drug to that person or thing. For example, We will drug the vicious predators to make them docile for transport. (verb) With addiction to those pills at crisis levels, they argue, a good part of the solution would be for doctors to rein in use of the drugs. The Washington Post (noun) While these uses are proper, drugshould not be used as a past tense form of drag. In this situation, use draggedinstead. Trick to Remember the Difference If you are still having troubling remembering drug vs. dragged, here is a helpful trick. Draggedis the correct past tense of the verb drag. Drug has other forms, but is not correct as the past tense of drag. You can remember the difference by rhyming dragged with the word flagged. Dragged and flagged are both past tense verbs. Just as you would not say the editor flug the sentence for removal, you should also not say the editor drug the dictionary out of his desk to check his spelling. Summary Is it dragged or drug?Dragged is the past tense of the word drag. Some people use drug instead of dragged, but to do so is incorrect. Drug has other uses, but when conjugating the verb drag into the past tense, stick with dragged. You can remember that dragged is correct by rhyming it with flagged. Dragged and flagged are the correct past tense forms of drag and flag, respectively. Drug and flug would both be mistakes. If you need help choosing between drug or dragged, you can come back to this site for a reminder. To summarize, What Is a Share Class?casino ridika A share class is a designation applied to a specified type of security such as common stock or mutual fund unit. Companies that have more than one class of common stock usually identify a given class with alphabetic markers, such as "Class A" shares and "Class B" shares; these carry different rights and privileges. Mutual funds also have share classes, which carry different sales charges, expense ratios, and minimum initial investment requirements. As an investor, it's important to know what class of shares you are buying, be it common stock in a public company or units of a mutual fund. Key Takeaways Share class refers to different types of company or mutual fund stock; they are designated by letter or by name. Different classes of company shares often carry different privileges, such as voting rights. Different classes of mutual fund shares incur differing fees and expenses. The Basics of Company Share Classes Different share classes within the same entity typically confer different rights to the stockholder. For example, a public company may offer two classes of common stock outstanding: Class A common stock and Class B common stock. This dual-class structure is typically decided on when a company first goes public and issues stock in the primary market. For example, a private company that is undertaking an initial public offering (IPO) may choose to issue Class A shares to its new investors, while giving the firm's existing stakeholders Class B shares. Such a dual-class structure might be instituted if the original owners of the company wanted to sell the majority of their stake in the firm, but still maintain control and make key decisions. In this case, the class B shares would typically have enhanced voting rights. Google instituted a dual share class structure during its corporate transformation into Alphabet Inc. in 2015. The company issued an A-class share with the ticker symbol GOOGL and a C-class share with the ticker symbol GOOG. Both trade around the same price level but the C class shares do not have voting rights. The company also issued a B class share, reserved for management and other controlling parties. The Basics of Mutual Fund Share Classes Mutual funds often offer several share classes to investors. Each class invests in the same portfolio of securities and has the same investment objectives and policies. However, their fees and expenses differ, which impact their performance. Other parameters, such as initial investment amounts, may differ as well. The most common share class is the A share, which carries a front-end load, payable upon purchase, or upfront. These funds may seem costly in the beginning but may be less expensive if held over the long-term. These upfront sales charges range from 2% to 5.75%, depending on the type of fund and the volume purchased. The B-share class is the opposite of the A share: It carries a back-end load, a commission paid when the investor sells it. This fee gradually declines the longer you own the mutual fund, eventually reaching zero. B shares often carry the right to be converted into A shares after seven years or so. The C-share class charges an annual fee for the life of the fund of around 1%, called a level-load. However, C-shares do often have a contingent deferred sales charge that may be triggered if they are sold within one year. Both B and C shares tend to pay higher expense ratios, the annual management and maintenance fee charged by the fund, than A shares do. Institutional Share Classes There are several other mutual fund share classes, with designations like I, R, N, X, and Y. These are what are known as institutional shares. Mutual funds usually make these classes available only to those with high net worth, typically more than $1 million, or to institutional investors who can make seven-figure deposits. However, 401(k) plans and other employer-sponsored retirement plans count as such institutional investors; by pooling the employees' contributions, the plan administrator is able to qualify for this class of shares. This is highly desirable: Institutional shares usually carry the lowest fees and expenses of mutual fund share classes. Because of the low expense ratios, institutional class shares invariably garner the best returns. For example, investment company Vanguard offers three share classes. Investor shares demand $1,000 to $3,000 initial deposits and carry an average expense ratio of .18%. Admiral shares have $3,000, $50,000 or $100,000 minimums, but the expense ratio averages .11%. Finally, the Institutional shares begin at $5 million, and their average expense ratio is .05%. dazzle casino free spinsshows grade level based on the word's complexity. bachelorism [ bach-luh-riz-uhm ]/ bt lrz m / New Word List Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.[ bach-luh-riz-uhm ]/ bt lrz m /Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. nounstate of being a bachelor. a characteristic or peculiarity of a bachelor: Excessive tidiness had been added to his bachelorisms. Words nearby bachelorism How to use in a sentence Ten to one, he is old, and has all the shrivelled, high-dried appearance of the most far-gone and confirmed bachelorism. Chambers's Edinburgh Journal, No. 444|Various QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Question bachelorismAn Americanism dating back to 180010; bachelor + -ismbachelor chest, bachelorette, bachelorette party, bachelor girl, bachelorhood, bachelorism, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, bachelor party, bachelor's-button, bachelor's-buttonsDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 People visit an exhibition hall of the phase II of National Museum of Chinese Writing in Anyang,best crypto investment 2021 reddit central China's Henan Province, Nov. 16, 2022. The second phase of National Museum of Chinese Writing opened to the public on Wednesday. (Photo by Ma Xiaoran/Xinhua) This aerial photo shows the National Museum of Chinese Writing in Anyang, central China's Henan Province, Nov. 16, 2022. The second phase of National Museum of Chinese Writing opened to the public on Wednesday. (Photo by Ma Xiaoran/Xinhua) People visit an exhibition hall of the phase II of National Museum of Chinese Writing in Anyang, central China's Henan Province, Nov. 16, 2022. The second phase of National Museum of Chinese Writing opened to the public on Wednesday. (Photo by Ma Xiaoran/Xinhua) People visit an exhibition hall of the phase II of National Museum of Chinese Writing in Anyang, central China's Henan Province, Nov. 16, 2022. The second phase of National Museum of Chinese Writing opened to the public on Wednesday. (Photo by Ma Xiaoran/Xinhua) A visitor takes photos in an exhibition hall of the phase II of National Museum of Chinese Writing in Anyang, central China's Henan Province, Nov. 16, 2022. The second phase of National Museum of Chinese Writing opened to the public on Wednesday. (Photo by Ma Xiaoran/Xinhua) A visitor takes photos in an exhibition hall of the phase II of National Museum of Chinese Writing in Anyang, central China's Henan Province, Nov. 16, 2022. The second phase of National Museum of Chinese Writing opened to the public on Wednesday. (Photo by Ma Xiaoran/Xinhua) What Is the Realization Multiple?jacks wild poker good betting sites The realization multiple is a private equity measurement that shows how much has been paid out to investors. The realization multiple measures the return that is realized from the investment. Private equity funds are unique in that they hold assets that are pulled together from all sorts of illiquid sources, including leveraged buyouts (LBO), start-ups and so on. The realization multiple is found by dividing the cumulative distributions from a fund, company or project by the paid-in capital. The realization multiple is also referred to as distributed to paid-in capital (DPI). Key Takeaways The realization multiple is used in private equity to measure the actual money paid back to investors. The realization multiple is effectively the realized return to a private equity fund and may also be known as distributed paid-in capital. This multiple is a nominal rate of return, meaning that it does not account for inflation or the time value of money. The Formula for the Realization Multiple Is Image by Sabrina Jiang Investopedia 2021 How Realization Multiple Works The realization multiple is popular among venture capitalists and private equity fund investors. This is because it focuses on what has actually been paid out to investors. If a private equity fund is paying out money to investors year after year, its realization multiple will climb as there are more distributions in the books. This allows a private equity investor to easily spot a fund that is successful at returning money back to its investors. Realization Multiple as Part of the Whole The realization multiple does not tell the whole story of a private equity funds performance. It is combined with other measures like the investment multiple, the paid-in capital (PIC), the total value to paid in multiple (TVPI), and the residual value to paid in multiple (RVPI). Of course, the funds internal rate of return since inception is also used as a key measure. Investors are essentially searching for the funds that generate a large amount of return (investment multiple) and arent shy about returning some of it to investors on a regular basis. As with most private equity measures, the realization multiple ignores the time value of money. This differentiates the realization multiple from other valuation methods, such as internal rate of return or net present value. Private equity funds are difficult to evaluate due to the types of investments they hold. There isnt a deep market that can establish valuation on a daily basis, so investors have to make guesses and leaps of faith when it comes to putting a number on the residual value. The realization multiple strips some of the uncertainty away and zeros in on what investors have seen from this fund in actual returned funds and, by extension, what is reasonable to expect in the future. The caveat is that in the world of private equity investing, past events only influence future events to a limited extent. All it takes is for a financing shift, and LBOs or heavily leveraged startups have a steeper hill to climb before a future exit strategy through an initial public offering (IPO). What Is a Hybrid ARM?reboot online gambling A hybrid adjustable-rate mortgage, or hybrid ARM (also known as a "fixed-period ARM"), blends characteristics of a fixed-rate mortgage with an adjustable-rate mortgage. This type of mortgage will have an initial fixed interest rate period followed by an adjustable rate period. After the fixed interest rate expires, the interest rate starts to adjust based on an index plus a margin. The date at which the mortgage changes from the fixed rate to the adjustable rate is referred to as the reset date. The most common configuration of hybrid ARM is the 5/1, which has an initial fixed term of 5 years followed by adjustable rates that reset every 12 months. Key Takeaways Hybrid adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) offer an introductory fixed rate for a set number of years, after which the interest rate adjusts annually. When hybrid ARMs become variable they will adjust on a regular basis, typically each year. Homeowners generally enjoy lower mortgage payments during the introductory period, but may lose out if interest rates are higher when the fixed period expires. The most popular type of hybrid ARM is the 5/1, which has a fixed initial 5-year term followed by annual adjustments with a variable rate. Click Play to Learn All About 5/1 Hybrid ARMs Understanding Hybrid ARMs 1:57 A borrower should carefully consider his or her time horizon when choosing a hybrid arm and recognize the risks associated with the reset date, or the expiration of the fixed interest rate period. If there has been a large change in interest rates, this reset could create substantially large payments; however, typically, the amount by which the interest rate can adjust is subject to an interest rate cap. The 5/1 hybrid ARM may be the most popular type of adjustable-rate mortgage, but it's not the only option. There are 3/1, 7/1, and 10/1 ARMs, as well. These loans offer an introductory fixed rate for three, seven, or 10 years respectively, after which they adjust annually. Other ARM structures exist, such as the 5/5 and 5/6 ARMs, which also feature a five-year introductory period followed by a rate adjustment every five years or every six months, respectively. Notably, 15/15 ARMs adjust once after 15 years. Less common are 2/28 and 3/27 ARMs. With the former, the fixed interest rate applies for only the first two years, followed by 28 years of adjustable rates; with the latter, the fixed rate is for three years, with adjustments in each of the following 27 years. Some of these loans adjust every six months rather than annually. How Hybrid ARMs Are Structured Hybrid adjustable-rate mortgages may be set with fixed-rate intervals of three, five, seven, or 10 years with the adjustable rate triggered on the reset date. After the reset date has been reached, the interest rate on the mortgage is typically assessed and recalculated on an annual basis. The long-term, fixed-rate mortgages, especially those with a 30 year period, can see low interest rates that are competitive, hybrid ARMs offer homebuyers options that may be more suitable for their needs. For instance, many homeowners do not remain in their residences for 30 years, making it more attractive to pursue a mortgage that offers interest rates that better suit the time frame they expect to hold the property. With a hybrid ARM, and index is established to serve as the benchmark interest that the margin is added to as way to figure out the new rate that will be enacted after the reset date is reached. The index can be based on a variety of benchmarks, such as the London Interbank Offered Rate. For the adjustable-rate period of the mortgage, a floor will be set to determine the absolute lowest rate the loans interest rate can be adjusted to. For instance, the lender might stipulate that the interest rate cannot fall below its stated margin. The calculation of the new adjustable-rate can include a lookback period where the lender, at the reset date, refers to the index within the lookback period. The length of this period can vary by lender and could be set around 45 days. What Is Annualized Income?aintree tips day 3 to day sure bet Annualized income is an estimate of the sum of money that an individual or a business generates over a year's time. Annualized income is calculated with less than one year's worth of data, so it is only an approximation of total income for the year. Annualized income figures can be helpful for creating budgets and making estimated income tax payments. Understanding Annualized Income Annualized income can be calculated by multiplying the earned income figure by the ratio of the number of months in a year divided by the number of months for which income data is available. If, for example, a consultant earned $10,000 in January, $12,000 in February, $9,000 in March and $13,000 in April, the earned income figure for those four months totals $44,000. To annualize the consultant's income, multiply $44,000 by 12/4 to equal $132,000. How Estimated Tax Payments Work Taxpayers pay annual tax liabilities through tax withholdings and by making estimated tax payments each quarter. There are many sources of income that are not subject to tax withholding. Income from self-employment, interest and dividend income and capital gains are not subject to tax withholdings, along with alimony and some other sources of income that may be reported to a taxpayer on Form 1099. To avoid a penalty for tax underpayment, the total tax withholdings and estimated tax payments must equal to the lesser of 90% of the tax owed for the current year or the full tax owed the previous year. Examples of Annualized Income That Fluctuates Computing estimated tax payments is difficult if the taxpayers income sources fluctuate during the year. Many self-employed people generate income that varies greatly from one month to the next. Assume, for example, that a self-employed salesperson earns $25,000 during the first quarter and $50,000 in the second quarter of the year. The higher income in the second quarter indicates a higher total level of income for the year, and the first quarters estimated tax payment is based on a lower level of income. As a result, the salesperson may be assessed an underpayment penalty for the first quarter. Factoring in the Annualized Income Installment Method To avoid the underpayment penalties due to fluctuating income, the IRS Form 2210 allows the taxpayer to annualize income for a particular quarter and compute the estimated tax payments based on that amount. Schedule AI of Form 2210 provides a column for each quarterly period, and the taxpayer annualizes the income for that period and computes an estimated tax payment based on that estimate. Using the salesperson example, Form 2210 allows the taxpayer to annualize the $25,000 first quarter income separately from the $50,000 second quarter income. Ph.D., Psychology, Fielding Graduate University M.A., Psychology, Fielding Graduate University B.A., Film Studies, Cornell University Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) was developed by psychologist Albert Ellis in 1955. It proposes that psychological ailments arise from our perspective on events, not the events themselves. The goal of REBT therapy is to improve our mental health by replacing self-defeating perspectives with healthier ones. Key Takeaways: REBT Therapy Developed in 1955, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) was the first cognitive behavioral therapy. REBT claims that psychological dysfunction is the result of irrational beliefs about the situations and events we experience. The goal of REBT is to replace irrational thinking with healthier, rational beliefs. The ABCDE model is the foundation of REBT. A is an activating event that leads to B, a belief about the event. Those beliefs lead to C, the emotional, behavioral, and cognitive consequences of ones belief about the event. REBT seeks to D, dispute ones irrational beliefs in order to lead to E, the emotional, behavioral, and cognitive effects that come with altering ones beliefs so they are healthier and more rational. Origins Albert Ellis was a clinical psychologist trained in the psychoanalytic tradition, but he began to feel that psychoanalytic therapies werent effectively helping his patients. He observed that although the approach shed light on the problems his patients were dealing with, it didnt help them actually change their responses to those problems. This led Ellis to start developing his own therapeutic system in the 1950s. There were many things that influenced him in this process. First, Ellis interest in philosophy was instrumental. In particular, Ellis was inspired by Epictetus declaration, People are disturbed not by things but by their view of things. Second, Ellis drew upon the ideas of prominent psychologists, including Karen Horneys concept of the tyranny of the shoulds and Alfred Adlers suggestion that the behavior of an individual is the result of their perspective. Finally, Ellis built upon the work of the general semanticists who believed that careless language use can impact how we feel and behave. From these disparate influences, Ellis created rational emotive behavior therapy, which holds that the way people feel is the result of the way they think. People often hold irrational beliefs about themselves, other people, and the world that can lead to psychological problems. REBT helps people by altering those irrational beliefs and thought processes. REBT was the first cognitive behavioral therapy. Ellis continued to work on REBT until he passed away in 2007. Because of his constant adjustments and improvements to his therapeutic approach, it went through a number of name changes. When Ellis initially introduced his technique in the 1950s he called it rational therapy. By 1959 he had changed the name to rational emotive therapy. Then, in 1992, he updated the name to rational emotive behavior therapy. Irrational Thinking REBT places a heavy emphasis on rationality and irrationality. In this context, irrationality is anything that is illogical or in some way hinders an individual from reaching their long-term goals. As a result, rationality has no set definition but is dependent on the individuals goals and what will aid them in reaching those goals. REBT contends that irrational thinking is at the heart of psychological issues. REBT points to several specific irrational beliefs people exhibit. These include: Demandingness or Musterbation rigid beliefs that lead people to think in absolute terms like must and should. For example, I must pass this test or I should always feel loved by my significant other. The perspective expressed by these kinds of statements is often unrealistic. Such dogmatic thinking can paralyze the individual and cause them to sabotage themselves. For instance, its desirable to pass the test but it might not happen. If the individual doesn't accept the possibility that they might not pass, it can lead to procrastination and a failure to try because of their anxiety about what could happen if they don't pass. rigid beliefs that lead people to think in absolute terms like must and should. For example, I must pass this test or I should always feel loved by my significant other. The perspective expressed by these kinds of statements is often unrealistic. Such dogmatic thinking can paralyze the individual and cause them to sabotage themselves. For instance, its desirable to pass the test but it might not happen. If the individual doesn't accept the possibility that they might not pass, it can lead to procrastination and a failure to try because of their anxiety about what could happen if they don't pass. Awfulizing an individual says an experience or situation is the worst thing that could possibly happen. Awfulizing statements include words like "awful," "terrible," and "horrible." Taken literally, these kinds of statements leave an individual with nowhere to go to improve a situation and therefore arent constructive ways of thinking. an individual says an experience or situation is the worst thing that could possibly happen. Awfulizing statements include words like "awful," "terrible," and "horrible." Taken literally, these kinds of statements leave an individual with nowhere to go to improve a situation and therefore arent constructive ways of thinking. Low Frustration Tolerance an individuals belief that they cant tolerate it if something they claim must not occur happens anyway. The individual may believe such an occurrence will make it impossible for them to experience any happiness. People with low frustration tolerance (LFT) often use phrases like cannot bear it or cannot stand it. an individuals belief that they cant tolerate it if something they claim must not occur happens anyway. The individual may believe such an occurrence will make it impossible for them to experience any happiness. People with low frustration tolerance (LFT) often use phrases like cannot bear it or cannot stand it. Depreciation or Global Evaluation rating oneself or someone else as lacking because of a failure to live up to a single standard. It entails judging the entirety of an individuals being on one criteria and ignoring their complexity. While REBT emphasizes irrational thinking, that emphasis is in the service of identifying and adjusting such thinking. REBT argues that people can think about their thinking and thus can actively choose to challenge their irrational thoughts and work towards changing them. The ABCDEs of REBT The foundation of REBT is the ABCDE model. The model helps uncover ones irrational beliefs and provides a process for disputing them and establishing more rational ones. The elements of the model consist of: A Activating event. An adverse or undesirable event experienced by an individual. An adverse or undesirable event experienced by an individual. B Beliefs. The irrational beliefs that come about because of the activating event. The irrational beliefs that come about because of the activating event. C Consequences.The emotional, behavioral, and cognitive consequences of ones beliefs about the activating event. Irrational beliefs lead to psychologically dysfunctional consequences. This first part of the model focuses on the formation and results of irrational beliefs. REBT observes that while many people will blame the activating event (A) for the negative consequences (C) they experience, it is actually the beliefs (B) they form about the activating event (A) that really lead to the consequences (C). Thus it is uncovering those beliefs that is key to changing the emotional, behavioral, and cognitive consequences. For example, perhaps an individual is rejected by his significant other. This is the activating event (A), its a fact of life and the individual may respond to it in different ways. In this case, the rejected individual forms the belief (B) that because he was rejected, he is unlovable and will never again have a romantic relationship. The consequence (C) of this belief is that the man never dates, remains alone, and becomes increasingly depressed and isolated. This is where the remainder of the REBT model can help. D Dispute. Clients in REBT are trained to actively dispute their irrational beliefs so they can restructure them into healthier beliefs. Clients in REBT are trained to actively dispute their irrational beliefs so they can restructure them into healthier beliefs. E Effect. The effect of changing ones beliefs about a situation to be more adaptive and rational, which in turn improves one's emotions, behaviors, and cognitions. After an individuals irrational beliefs are uncovered, REBT uses a technique called disputing to challenge and restructure these beliefs. For example, if the man who was rejected by his significant other went to see an REBT practitioner, the practitioner would dispute the idea that he was unlovable. REBT practitioners work with their clients to challenge their problematic thought processes about different situations as well as their illogical emotional and behavioral responses. Practitioners encourage their clients to adopt different, healthier perspectives. To do this, the practitioner utilizes a number of methods including guided imagery, meditation, and journaling. The Three Insights Although everyone is irrational from time to time, REBT suggests that people can develop three insights that will reduce this tendency. Insight 1: Our rigid beliefs about negative events are primarily responsible for our psychological disturbances. Our rigid beliefs about negative events are primarily responsible for our psychological disturbances. Insight 2: We remain psychologically disturbed because we continue to adhere to our rigid beliefs instead of working to change them. We remain psychologically disturbed because we continue to adhere to our rigid beliefs instead of working to change them. Insight 3: Psychological health only comes when people work hard to change their irrational beliefs. Its a practice that must start in the present and continue into the future. It's only by gaining and following all three insights that an individual will come to the conclusion that they must work to challenge their irrational thinking to eliminate psychological dysfunction. According to REBT, if the individual only recognizes their irrational thinking but doesnt work to change it, they wont experience any positive emotional, behavioral, or cognitive benefits. Ultimately, a psychologically healthy individual learns to accept oneself, others, and the world. They also develop a high frustration tolerance. An individual with high frustration tolerance acknowledges that undesirable events can and will happen but believes that they can tolerate such events by either changing or accepting them and pursuing alternative goals. That doesnt mean people who have developed acceptance and high frustration tolerance dont experience negative emotions. It means the negative emotions they experience are healthy because they are the result of rational beliefs. For example, psychologically healthy individuals will experience concern but not anxiety and sadness but not depression. Critiques Studies have shown REBT to be an effective form of therapy for issues like obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, and social anxiety. However, REBT hasnt escaped all criticism. Some have taken issue with the confrontational approach championed by Ellis in his disputing technique. Some REBT clients left therapy because they didnt like having their beliefs questioned. However, although Ellis was tough on clients because he believed life was tough and clients needed to be tough to cope, other REBT practitioners often employ a softer touch that limits client discomfort. Another critique of REBT is that it doesnt always work. Ellis suggested that this was the result of people failing to adhere to the revised beliefs they came to in therapy. Such individuals might talk about their new beliefs but dont act on them, leading the individual to backslide into their former irrational beliefs and their emotional and behavioral consequences. While REBT is meant to be a short-term form of therapy, Ellis said that some people might need to stay in therapy long-term to ensure they maintain their healthier beliefs and the emotional and behavioral improvements that result from them. Sources Atlantic City Revel Casino, which was supposed to close doors on February 7th and be eventually acquired by Glenn Straub, faced new setbacks. The current owners of the shuttered casino announced that they wouldcancel the deal on Tuesday morning. Glenn Straub was about to acquire the venue for the sum of $95.4 million and the deadline for the saleto close was 12:01 a.m. However, the attorney of Revel commented on the matter and said that early today a request related to the deal cancellation will be filled and submitted to the court. Michael Viscount made that announcement mere minutes after the deadline was passed. The deal cancellation has been the second one in the last couple of months. Initially, Brookfield Asset Management was to take the reigns of Revel but the Canadian company walked out of the deal to make way for Glenn Straubwho was a runner-up in the auction, to acquire the property. Viscount said that Revel officials have to think about an alternative option since they are really pressed for time. The soon-to-be-owner Glenn Straub requested the court to extend the sale deadline until the end of the month and tomorrow morning, the court will have its final say on the matter. Stuart Moskovitz, who is in charge of Straubs legal affairs, said that Revel officials are allowed neither to keep Straubs deposit nor to terminate the deal. Moskovitz added that it was not financially beneficial to Revelto cancel the deal because such a move will by all means result in significant losses and Revel might never be able to make up for these losses. Viscount also said that Straubs deposit totaling $10 millionwould definitely help the struggling property. People with knowledge on the matter reminded that Revel kept the deposit, given by Brookfield, when the deal was terminated. Judge Jerome Simandle did not give his consent to the deal completion unless Revels tenants claims are taken into consideration. Judge Simandle allowed the restaurants and nightclubs to stay within the property, which made it impossible for Straub to close the deal. Everything was expected to go smooth but last Friday, things went wrong when Revels tenants were given permission to stay within the premises. During yesterdays court hearing, the judge said that despite the current situation, the deal could be closed. However, Straub strongly disagreedwith that statement. Last month, the Florida developer announced his plans for turning the former casino into a water park, hotel and condominiumsbut probably the most eccentric proposal was establishing a high-speed ferry service connecting his newly acquired property with New York City. What Is Accrued Interest?crypto shiba di indodax In accounting, accrued interest refers to the amount of interest that has been incurred, as of a specific date, on a loan or other financial obligation but has not yet been paid out. Accrued interest can either be in the form of accrued interest revenue, for the lender, or accrued interest expense, for the borrower. The term accrued interest also refers to the amount of bond interest that has accumulated since the last time a bond interest payment was made. Key Takeaways Accrued interest is a feature of accrual accounting, and it follows the guidelines of the revenue recognition and matching principles of accounting. Accrued interest is booked at the end of an accounting period as an adjusting journal entry, which reverses the first day of the following period. The amount of accrued interest to be recorded is the accumulated interest that has yet to be paid as of the end date of an accounting period. Accrued Interest Understanding Accrued Interest 1:39 Accrued interest is calculated as of the last day of the accounting period. For example, assume interest is payable on the 20th of each month, and the accounting period is the end of each calendar month. The month of April will require an accrual of 10 days of interest, from the 21st to the 30th. It is posted as part of the adjusting journal entries at month-end. Accrued interest is reported on the income statement as a revenue or expense, depending on whether the company is lending or borrowing. In addition, the portion of revenue or expense yet to be paid or collected is reported on the balance sheet as an asset or liability. Because accrued interest is expected to be received or paid within one year, it is often classified as a current asset or current liability. Accrual Accounting and Accrued Interest Accrued interest is a result of accrual accounting, which requires that accounting transactions be recognized and recorded when they occur, regardless of whether payment has been received or expended at that time. The ultimate goal when accruing interest is to ensure that the transaction is accurately recorded in the right period. Accrual accounting differs from cash accounting, which recognizes an event when cash or other forms of consideration trade hands. The revenue recognition principle and matching principle are both important aspects of accrual accounting, and both are relevant in the concept of accrued interest. The revenue recognition principle states that revenue should be recognized in the period in which it was earned, rather than when payment is received. The matching principle states that expenses should be recorded in the same accounting period as the related revenues. To illustrate how these principles impact accrued interest, consider a business that takes out a loan to purchase a company vehicle. The company owes the bank interest on the vehicle on the first day of the following month. The company has use of the vehicle for the entire prior month, and is, therefore, able to use the vehicle to conduct business and generate revenue. At the end of each month, the business will need to record interest that it expects to pay out on the following day. In addition, the bank will be recording accrued interest income for the same one-month period because it anticipates the borrower will be paying it the following day. Accrued Interest Example - Accounting Consider the following example. Let us assume there is a $20,000 loan receivable with an interest rate of 7.5%, on which payment has been received for the period through the 20th day of the month. In this scenario, to record the extra amount of interest revenue that was earned from the 21st to the 30th of the month, the calculation would be as follows: (7.5% x (10 / 365)) x $20,000 = $41.10 The amount of accrued interest for the party who is receiving payment is a credit to the interest revenue account and a debit to the interest receivable account. The receivable is consequently rolled onto the balance sheet and classified as a short-term asset. The same amount is also classified as revenue on the income statement. The accrued interest for the party who owes the payment is a credit to the accrued liabilities account and a debit to the interest expense account. The liability is rolled onto the balance sheet as a short-term liability, while the interest expense is presented on the income statement. Both cases are posted as reversing entries, meaning that they are subsequently reversed on the first day of the following month. This ensures that when the cash transaction occurs in the following month, the net effect is only the portion of the revenue or expense that was earned or incurred in the current period stays in the current period. Using the example above, $123.29 (7.5% x (30/365) x $20,000) is received by the lending company on the 20th day of the second month. Of that, $41.10 related to the prior month and was booked as an adjusting journal entry at the prior month end to recognize the revenue in the month it was earned. Because the adjusting journal entry reverses in the second month, the net effect is that $82.19 ($123.29 - $41.10) of the payment is recognized in the second month. That is equivalent to the 20 days worth of interest in the second month. Accrued Interest Example - Bonds Accrued interest is an important consideration when purchasing or selling a bond. Bonds offer the owner compensation for the money they have lent, in the form of regular interest payments. These interest payments, also referred to as coupons, are generally paid semiannually. If a bond is bought or sold at a time other than those two dates each year, the purchaser will have to tack onto the sales amount any interest accrued since the previous interest payment. The new owner will receive a full 1/2 year interest payment at the next payment date. Therefore, the previous owner must be paid the interest that accrued prior to the sale. Let's assume you are interested in buying a bond with a face value of $1,000 and a 5% semiannual coupon. The interest payment is made twice a year on June 1 and December 1 and you plan to buy the bond on September 30. How much accrued interest would you have to pay? Bond markets use a number of slightly differing day-count conventions to calculate the exact amount of accrued interest. Since most U.S. corporate and municipal bonds use the 30/360 convention, which assumes that each month has 30 days (regardless of the actual number of days in a particular month), we will use that day-count convention in this example. Step 1: Calculate the exact number of days between the date of the last coupon payment (June 1) and your purchase date (September 30). In this example, the number of days (based on the 30/360 convention) is 120 days. Step 2: Calculate accrued interest by multiplying the day count by the daily interest rate and face value of the bond. Thus, accrued interest = 120 x (5% / 360) * $1,000 = $16.67 Step 3: Add the accrued interest to the face value of the bond to get your purchase price. Purchase price of bond = $1,000 + $16.67 = $1,016.67 On the next coupon payment date (December 1), you will receive $25 in interest. But since you paid $16.67 in accrued interest when you purchased the bond, the net interest received by you is $8.33 ($25 - $16.67), which is precisely the amount of interest you should have received for the 60 days that you owned the bond until the next coupon payment (September 30 to December 1). The election of 1800 was one of the most controversial in American history, marked by intrigue, betrayals, and a tie in the electoral college between two candidates who were running mates on the same ticket. The eventual winner was decided only after days of balloting in the House of Representatives. When it was settled, Thomas Jefferson became president, marking a philosophical change that has been characterized as the "Revolution of 1800." The result represented a significant political realignment as the first two presidents, George Washington and John Adams, had been Federalists, while Jefferson represented the ascending Democratic-Republican Party. Constitutional Flaw The 1800 election result revealed a serious flaw in the U.S. Constitution, which said that candidates for president and vice president ran on the same ballot, which meant running mates could be running against each other. The 12th Amendment, which changed the Constitution to prevent the 1800 election problem from recurring, created the current system of presidents and vice presidents running on the same ticket. The nation's fourth presidential election was the first time candidates campaigned, though the campaigning was very subdued by modern standards. The contest was also noteworthy for intensifying political and personal animosity between two men tragically linked in history, Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr. John Adams When Washington announced that he would not run for a third term, Adams, his vice president, ran and was elected president in 1796. Adams became increasingly unpopular during his four years in office, especially for the passage of the Alien and Sedition Acts, repressive legislation designed to stifle freedom of the press. As the 1800 election approached, Adams was determined to run for a second term, though his chances weren't promising. Alexander Hamilton Hamilton had been born on the island of Nevis in the Caribbean Sea. While he was technically eligible to be president under the Constitution, having been a citizen when it was ratified, he was such a controversial figure that a run for high office never seemed feasible. However, he had played a formidable role in Washington's administration, serving as the first secretary of the treasury. Over time he came to be an enemy of Adams, though they were both members of the Federalist Party. He had tried to ensure the defeat of Adams in the election of 1796 and hoped to see Adams defeated in his 1800 run. Hamilton didn't hold governmental office in the late 1790s when he was practicing law in New York City. Yet he built a Federalist political machine in New York and could exert considerable influence in political matters. Aaron Burr Burr, a prominent New York political figure, was opposed to the Federalists continuing their rule and also hoped to see Adams denied a second term. A constant rival to Hamilton, Burr had built a political machine centered on Tammany Hall, which rivaled Hamilton's Federalist organization. For the 1800 election, Burr threw his support behind Jefferson. Burr ran with Jefferson on the same ticket as the vice presidential candidate. Thomas Jefferson Jefferson had served as Washington's secretary of state and ran a close second to Adams in the election of 1796. As a critic of the Adams presidency, Jefferson was an obvious candidate on the Democratic-Republican ticket to oppose the Federalists. Campaigning in 1800 While it is true that the 1800 election marked the first time that candidates campaigned, the campaigning mostly consisted of writing letters and articles expressing their intentions. Adams did make trips to Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania that were construed as political visits, and Burr, on behalf of the Democratic-Republican ticket, visited towns throughout New England. In that early period, the electors from the states were generally chosen by state legislatures, not by popular vote. In some cases, the elections for state legislatures were essentially substitutes for the presidential election, so any campaigning took place at the local level. Electoral College Tie The tickets in the election were Federalists Adams and Charles C. Pinckney against Democratic-Republicans Jefferson and Burr. The ballots for the electoral college weren't counted until Feb. 11, 1801, when it was discovered that the election was a tie. Jefferson and his running mate, Burr, each received 73 electoral votes. Adams received 65 votes and Pinckney received 64. John Jay, who had not even run, received one electoral vote. The original wording of the Constitution, which didn't distinguish between electoral votes for president and vice president, led to the problematic outcome. In the event of a tie in the electoral college, the Constitution dictated that the election would be decided by the House of Representatives. So Jefferson and Burr, who had been running mates, became rivals. The Federalists, who still controlled the lame-duck Congress, threw their support behind Burr in an effort to defeat Jefferson. While Burr publicly expressed his loyalty to Jefferson, he worked to win the election in the House. Hamilton, who detested Burr and considered Jefferson a safer choice for president, wrote letters and used all his influence with the Federalists to thwart Burr. House Decides The election in the House of Representatives began on Feb. 17 in the unfinished Capitol building in Washington, D.C. The voting went on for several days, and after 36 ballots the tie was finally broken. Jefferson was declared the winner and Burr was named the vice president. It is believed that Hamilton's influence weighed heavily on the outcome. Legacy of the Election of 1800 The fractious outcome of the 1800 election led to the passage and ratification of the 12th Amendment, which changed the way the electoral college functioned. Because Jefferson didn't trust Burr, he gave him nothing to do as vice president. Burr and Hamilton continued their epic feud, which finally culminated in their famous duel in Weehawken, New Jersey on July 11, 1804. Burr shot Hamilton, who died the next day. Burr wasn't prosecuted for killing Hamilton, though he later was accused of treason, tried, and acquitted. He lived in exile in Europe for several years before returning to New York. He died in 1836. Jefferson served two terms as president. He and Adams eventually put their differences behind them and wrote a series of friendly letters during the last decade of their lives. They both died on a noteworthy day: July 4, 1826, the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Facebook Facebook Twitter Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College Have you ever had a dream in which you were aware you were dreaming? If so, you've had a lucid dream. While some people commonly experience lucid dreams, many have never had one or at least have not remembered it. If you're interested in lucid dreams, it may help to understand how they are different from ordinary dreams, reasons why you might (or might not) want to experience them, and how to start lucid dreaming tonight. What Is Lucid Dreaming? The term "lucid dream" was coined by Dutch writer and psychiatrist Frederik van Eeden in 1913 in his article "A Study of Dreams." However, lucid dreaming has been known and practiced since ancient time. It is part of the ancient Hindu practice of yoga nidra and the Tibetan practice of dream yoga. Aristotle referred to lucid dreaming. The physician Galen of Pergamon used lucid dreaming as part of his medical practice. While scientists and philosophers have long understood the practice of lucid dreaming and its benefits, the neurology behind the phenomenon has only been examined in the 20th and 21st centuries. A 1985 study by Stephen LaBerge at Stanford University revealed that, unlike in most dreams, time perception in lucid dreaming is about the same as in waking life. Electroencephalograms (EEGs) indicate lucid dreaming starts during the Rapid Eye Movement (REM) state of sleep, but different parts of the brain are active during a lucid dream than during an ordinary dream. Skeptics of lucid dreams believe these perceptions take place during a brief period of wakefulness rather than a stage of sleep. Regardless of how they work and whether they are truly "dreams," people who experience lucid dreams are able to observe their dreams, recall the waking world, and sometimes control the direction of the dream. Pros and Cons of Lucid Dreams There are excellent reasons to seek lucid dreams and equally good reasons you may wish to avoid them. Some people find lucid dreaming frightening. A person may become more aware of sleep paralysis, a natural phenomenon that prevents the body from harming itself during dreams. Others feel "dream claustrophobia" from being able to observe a dream but not control it. Finally, persons suffering from mental disorders that make it difficult to distinguish between fantasy and reality may find lucid dreaming worsens the condition. On the flip side, lucid dreaming may be successful in reducing the number and severity of nightmares. In some cases, this is because the dreamer can control and alter nightmares. Others benefit from observing a nightmare and realizing it's not waking reality. Lucid dreams may be a source of inspiration or may present a means of solving a problem. Recalling a lucid dream may help a composer remember a song from a dream or a mathematician recall a dream equation. Basically, a lucid dream gives the dreamer a way to connect the conscious and subconscious mind. Another reason to lucid dream is because it can be empowering and fun. If you can control a dream, the sleeping world becomes your playground. All the laws of physics cease to apply, making anything possible. How to Lucid Dream If you've never had a lucid dream before or are seeking to make them more common, there are several steps you can take. Sleep Well It's important to allow enough time to have a lucid dream. Dreams during the first part of the night are mostly related to memory and the body's repair processes. Dreams that occur near the end of a good night's sleep are more likely to be lucid. Learn How to Remember Dreams Experiencing lucid dreams isn't particularly useful if you can't recall the dream! There are several steps you can take to remember dreams. When you first awaken and try to recall a dream, keep your eyes closed and don't change position. Keep a dream journal and record dreams as soon as you awaken. Tell yourself you willremember dreams. Use MILD MILD stands for Mnemonic Induction to Lucid Dreaming. It just means using a memory aid to remind yourself to be "awake" during your dreams. You can repeat "I will know I'm dreaming" before falling asleep or look at an object before sleeping that you have set to connect with lucid dreaming. For example, you can look at your hands. Think about how they appear when you're awake and remind yourself to look at them in a dream. Perform Reality Checks Reality checks are used to tell lucid dreams from reality. Some people find their hands change appearance in a dream, so if you look at your hands and they are strange, you know you're in a dream. Another good reality check is examining your reflection in a mirror. If a book is handy, read the same paragraph twice. In a dream, the words almost always change. Wake Yourself up During the Night Lucid dreams accompany REM sleep, which occurs about 90 minutes after falling asleep and approximately every 90 minutes afterward. Immediately following a dream, the brain approaches wakefulness, so it's easier to wake up and recall a dream right after you have one. You can increase the odds of remembering a dream (and give yourself another reminder to be aware of dreaming) if you wake yourself up every 90 minutes. You can set a regular alarm clock or use a device called a light alarm that raises light levels after a set amount of time. If you can't afford to disrupt your sleep schedule this much, simply set your alarm about 2 hours before you normally would wake up. When you awaken, turn off the alarm and drift back to sleep thinking about one of your reality checks. Relax and Enjoy the Experience If you have trouble lucid dreaming or recalling dreams, don't beat yourself up over it. It takes time to develop lucid dreaming habits. When you have a lucid dream, relax and observe it before trying to control it. Try to identify any steps you might have taken that helped the process work. Over time you'll experience lucid dreams more often. Sources This knicks bucks spread buy pi cryptoshows grade level based on the word's complexity. abiogenesis [ ey-bahy-oh-jen-uh-sis, ab-ee-oh- ]/ e ba odn ss, b i o- / See the most commonly confused word associated with abiogenesisa-6+ biogenesis; coined by T. H. Huxley in 1870 OTHER WORDS FROM abiogenesis abiogenetic [ey-bahy-oh-juh-net-ik, ab-ee-oh-], /e ba o dnt k, b i o-/, abiogenetical, adjectiveabiogenetically, adverbabiogenist [ey-bahy-oj-uh-nist, ab-ee-], /e bad nst, b i-/, noun Words nearby abiogenesis How to use abiogenesis C19: New Latin, from a- 1 + bio- + genesis Scientific definitions for abiogenesis abiogenesis[ abi-o-jeni-sis ] See spontaneous generation. Once you've mastered how to count in French, you'll want to learn the words for basic math operations. Even if you're well past the age of passing math class, this French vocabulary will come in handy when you're discussing financial transactions, shapes, and forms, or calculating engineering data. Basic Math When more than one French translation is given, the more formal term is listed first. l'operation = egale, font, ca fait result le resultat l'addition + plus, et sum la somme la soustraction - moins difference la difference la multiplication multiplie par, fois product le produit la division or / divise par, sur quotient le quotient More formal Less formal Familiar 2+2=4 2 plus 2 egale 4 2 et 2 font 4 2 et 2, ca fait 4 2-2=0 2 moins 2 egale 0 2 moins 2 font 0 2 moins 2, ca fait 0 22=4 2 multiplie par 2 egale 4 2 fois 2 font 4 2 fois 2, ca fait 4 22=1 2 divise par 2 egale 1 2 divise par 2 font 1 2 sur 2, ca fait 1 When speaking, as when doing addition or multiplication tables, you can even omit egale, font, orca fait: 2 et 2 quatre, 4 fois 2 huit, etc. There is some debate about whether egaler should be conjugated in the third person singular (egale) or plural (egalent). According to Le Petit Robert, egale is more common but egalent is also acceptable. Le Petit Larousse uses only egale. Additional Vocabulary What Is a Loyalty Program?10 best slot sites au Loyalty programs, sponsored by retailers and other businesses, offer rewards, discounts, and other special incentives as a way to attract and retain customers. They are designed to encourage repeat business, offering people a reward for store/brand loyalty (hence the name). Typically, the more often a customer patronizes the merchantand the more they spendthe greater their rewards. Key Takeaways Loyalty programs are offered by retailers and other corporations as a way to attract and retain customers. Loyalty programs offer rewards, discounts, or other special incentives and are designed as a reward for a customer's repeat business. Loyalty programs benefit companies not only by developing customer loyalty but by providing crucial information on how customers are spending and what products or types of offers are most appealing. While companies like Starbucks make great use of loyalty programs, some retailers such as Costco and Amazon rely instead on annual memberships. How a Loyalty Program Works Loyalty program incentives vary. Typical incentives include: advance notice of/early access to new products early access to sales free merchandise or enhanced services special services, like free or expedited shipping members-only discounts To join a loyalty programalso known as a rewards program or points programcustomers typically register their personal information with the company and are given a unique identifier, such as a numerical ID or membership card. They use that identifier when making a purchase. Purpose of a Loyalty Program Loyalty programs provide two key functions: They reward customers for their repeated patronage, and they provide the issuing company with a wealth of consumer information and data. While companies can evaluate anonymous purchases, the use of a loyalty program offers additional details on the type of products that may be purchased together, and whether certain incentives are more effective than others. Loyalty programs particularly apply to high-volume businesses that thrive on return customers. And since it's more expensive to acquire a new customer than to sell to an existing one, the prospect of creating a loyal following is fundamental to adding value. When appropriately executed, repeat customers will help recruit new ones at a fraction of the cost of traditional marketing methods. When these programs are integrated into the customer's everyday routine, they can cultivate true brand loyalty. Often, customers get invested in the programand they will stick to a hotel, store, restaurant, credit card, or airline because of points or rewards they've accrued in its loyalty program, more than anything else. Retail loyalty programs can trace their roots to the stamp or boxtop collection and redemption programs that date back to the 1890s. But the modern model was born with airlines' frequent flyer programs. American Airlines' AAdvantage, launched in 1981, was the first; United Airlines' Mileage Plus debuted shortly afterward. Loyalty Program Example Loyalty programs, like everything else, have joined the Digital Age. Interestingly, they are incorporating tech not just as a means of purchase things to get rewards, but as a source of rewards themselves: urging patrons to text or Instagram photos for points, or offering a discount if you shop via the merchant's new app. The Starbucks (SBUX) Rewards program remains the default case study of how a brand can retain customers through interactive offers. The app operates much like any other rewards program, in that customers earn points (called "stars") to use for future coffee purchases. It differentiates itself from other loyalty systems by providing customers a convenient way to order ahead, pay in-store and even access exclusive music playlists. For the most part, the app solidifies Starbucks as a basic necessity for every coffee drinker. If you add funds via the app onto your digital rewards card, you'll "earn Stars twice as fast," Starbucks says. Loyalty Program Alternatives Loyalty programs aren't the only way to win customers' allegiance. Retailers like Costco (COST) and Amazon (AMZN) have achieved great customer loyalty through membership programs. Even though they carry an out-of-pocket cost, many shoppers happily pay the annual fees to access the variety of products, free shipping (in Amazon's case), and other perks and privileges offered by the two retailers. And for those who take advantage of all the available services included in a membership, the benefits can often outweigh the costs. What Is Shareholder Value?ozwin casino no deposit bonusjuicy vegas Shareholder value is the value delivered to the equity owners of a corporation due to management's ability to increase sales, earnings, and free cash flow, which leads to an increase in dividends and capital gains for the shareholders. A companys shareholder value depends on strategic decisions made by its board of directors and senior management, including the ability to make wise investments and generate a healthy return on invested capital. If this value is created, particularly over the long term, the share price increases and the company can pay larger cash dividends to shareholders. Mergers, in particular, tend to cause a heavy increase in shareholder value. Shareholder value can become a hot button issue for corporations, as the creation of wealth for shareholders does not always or equally translate to value for employees or customers of the corporation. Key Takeaways Shareholder value is the value given to stockholders in a company based on the firm's ability to sustain and grow profits over time. Increasing shareholder value increases the total amount in the stockholders' equity section of the balance sheet. The maxim about increasing shareholder value is in fact a practical myththere is no legal duty for management to maximize corporate profits. Understanding Shareholder Value Increasing shareholder value increases the total amount in the stockholders' equity section of the balance sheet. The balance sheet formula is: assets, minus liabilities, equals stockholders' equity, and stockholders' equity includes retained earnings, or the sum of a company's net income, minus cash dividends since inception. How Asset Use Drives Value Companies raise capital to buy assets and use those assets to generate sales or invest in new projects with a positive expected return. A well-managed company maximizes the use of its assets so that the firm can operate with a smaller investment in assets. Assume, for example, a plumbing company uses a truck and equipment to complete residential work, and the total cost of these assets is $50,000. The more sales the plumbing firm can generate using the truck and the equipment, the more shareholder value the business creates. Valuable companies are those that can increase earnings with the same dollar amount of assets. Instances Where Cash Flow Increases Value Generating sufficient cash inflows to operate the business is also an important indicator of shareholder value because the company can operate and increase sales without the need to borrow money or issue more stock. Firms can increase cash flow by quickly converting inventory and accounts receivable into cash collections. The rate of cash collection is measured by turnover ratios, and companies attempt to increase sales without the need to carry more inventory or increase the average dollar amount of receivables. A high rate of both inventory turnover and accounts-receivable turnover increases shareholder value. Factoring in Earnings per Share If management makes decisions that increase net income each year, the company can either pay a larger cash dividend or retain earnings for use in the business. A companys earnings per share (EPS) is defined as earnings available to common shareholders divided by common stock shares outstanding, and the ratio is a key indicator of a firms shareholder value. When a company can increase earnings, the ratio increases and investors view the company as more valuable. The Shareholder Value Maximization Myth? It is commonly understood that corporate directors and management have a duty to maximize shareholder value, especially for publicly traded companies. However, legal rulings suggest that this common wisdom is, in fact, a practical myththere is actually no legal duty to maximize profits in the management of a corporation. The idea can be traced in large part to the oversize effects of a single outdated and widely misunderstood ruling by the Michigan Supreme Court's 1919 decision in Dodge v. Ford Motor Co., which was about the legal duty of a controlling majority shareholder with respect to a minority shareholder and not about maximizing shareholder value. Legal and organizational scholars such as Lynn Stout and Jean-Philippe Robe have elaborated on this myth at length. Melco Resorts & Entertainment, the operator of the Republic of Cyprus first casino, welcomed the recently approved creation of a Junior Ministry of Tourismthat will look to further improve the state of the tiny Mediterranean nations tourism industry. Hong Kong-based Melco and its Cypriot partner CNS Group are currently building the 550-million City of Dreams Mediterraneanintegrated resort in Limassol. A temporary casino opened doors in the city late last month. The facility, located not far from the main resorts construction site, will remain operational until the larger property is completed and launched in 2021. The Cypriot government approved earlier this week the establishment of a Junior Ministry of Tourism. The Ministry will be led by a Junior Tourism Minister and will take over from the Ministry of Commerce, which is currently overseeing the island nations tourism industry, from January 2, 2019. As a result from the creation of the new Ministry, the state-run Cyprus Tourism Organization will be disbanded. Its staff will be transferred to the newly created Tourism Ministry. The entity will be charged with presenting ways for increasing tourism arrivals, improving the quality of service, and combating seasonality. According to official statistics, Cyprus registered a record number of 3,652,073 international visitslast year. The UK, Russia, and Israel were the island nations primary markets with 1,253,839, 824,494, and 261,966 arrivals from these countries. However, the summer months have traditionally been the most preferred time for travel to Cyprus, a trend the countrys tourism industry has been trying to put an end to for quite some time. Melco Welcomes New Tourism Ministry Commenting on the establishment of the new Ministry, City of Dreams Mediterranean and Cyprus Casinos President Craig Ballantyne said in a statement quoted by Cyprus Mailthat the goals set before the new entity are aligned with Melcos efforts to provide top quality hospitality and entertainmentand to transform the island nation into a year-round destination. Mr. Ballantyne revealed earlier this week that Cyprus Casino or C2, as the temporary casino has been branded, welcomed 7,000 unique visitorsduring its first days of operation in Limassol. However, the official pointed out that the facility operates in a tough environment, as it has to compete with established casino businesses in North Cyprus as well as with illegal casino operations spread across the Republic of Cyprus. Mr. Ballantyne stressed that they are well-aware of the fact their main resort and the non-gaming operations that will accompany the gaming ones will be the key to a long-term success of Melcos City of Dreams Mediterranean. As mentioned above, the main resort is slated to open doors in 2021. Apart from the larger complex, Melco will also operate satellite casinos in the capital Nicosia, Larnaca, Paphos, and Ayia Napa. The four facilities will be rolled out gradually within the next year and a half, with the first two of them anticipated to assume operations in the coming months. As sometime Davos attendee Bill Clinton once said, Explanation is eloquence. This is a time bomb which preoccupies us most, he told a panel at Davos. Andrew still plans to fly to Davos in Switzerland for the World Economic Forum on January 21, representing the British government. The conventional wisdom around Davos is that they are, if not the has-beens, then at least the disappointment of the decade. At Davos 2014, The Gods Of Mischief Rule|Christopher Dickey|January 21, 2014|DAILY BEAST For God's sake write and persuade him to go to Davos at onceand picture the delights of a pretty and devoted nurse. Ancestors|Gertrude Atherton "I had no idea Davos was so gay," said Mrs. Avory, raising her light gentle eyes to the young man's face. The Devourers|Annie Vivanti Chartres Sometimes holiday-makers and sport-lovers came up to Davos for a fortnight or a month, especially in the winter. The Devourers|Annie Vivanti Chartres It was one of those mornings at Davos which seemed made out of fragrance and crystal. The Dark Tower|Phyllis Bottome We have all seen abstract or confusing movies and wondered to ourselves, Who is the hero of this story? Who is the villain? In many stories, the roles arent clear-cut, or they can change throughout the movie. Some stories might have many protagonists or antagonists, and postmodern fiction might not feature any. But what about the words protagonist and antagonist themselves? What do those mean, and to which characters do they refer in stories? Continue reading to find out. Whats the Difference Between Protagonist and Antagonist? In this article, I will pit protagonist vs. antagonist, just like in the movies. I will use many example sentences so that you can see how these words appear in context. Finally, I will show you a helpful memory trick to use to help you decide which is which next time you see a movie or read a book. What is a Protagonist? What does protagonist mean? The protagonist of a story is the leading character. This character often takes on the role of the good guy, but this isnt an essential attribute of a protagonist. The word protagonist is a noun. Here are a few examples of protagonist in a sentence, The crime novel features a grizzled protagonist who has spent many years on the police force and must learn to trust his hotshot new partner. Sigourney Weaver plays the protagonist in the space horror film Alien, which was released in 1979. If you are a protagonist in Game of Thrones, you are probably going to die a gruesome death. For such a fat book 528 dense pages the 12th Bernie Gunther mystery is as brisk and agile as its German police detective protagonist. The Washington Post While the protagonist doesnt necessarily have to be the good guy, the character most often is. What is an Antagonist? What does antagonist mean? Antagonist is also a noun. The antagonist is a person who actively opposes or is hostile to the protagonist. In many stories the antagonist takes on the form of the bad guy in a story. Here are a few examples, Although the viewer doesnt realize it at the beginning of the story, Meryl Streeps character is the main antagonist of The Devil Wears Prada. The villain Darth Vader is one of the most recognizable villains of all time. I am the antagonist of the life stories of everyone who stands in my way, but in those stories, the antagonist wins. New York states attorney general, to date one of the most vocal antagonists of President Donald Trump, is preparing to escalate his offices litigation against the presidents administration. The Wall Street Journal Again, the antagonistmost often takes the form of the bad guy, but this isnt an essential attribute. The antagonist is simply someone who works against the protagonist. Trick to Remember the Difference Sometimes, it is difficult to remember what role does what in literature, so lets go over a trick to remember antagonist vs. protagonist. In general, The protagonist is the hero of the story. The antagonist is the villain of the story. The way I always remember the roles of these words is that the antagonist is always antagonizing the protagonist. If you can link the words antagonistand antagonize, you will be all set. Summary Is it protagonist or antagonist? Protagonist andantagonist and are nouns that refer to characters in a story. The protagonist is the main character, often a hero. The antagonist is the character who opposes the protagonist, often a villain. Of course, stories can have multiple protagonists and antagonists, and dynamic characters can even switch between these roles as the story develops. If you arent sure if someone is an antagonist or protagonist, remember that the antagonist antagonizes the protagonist. Writing fiction can be difficult because the writer must juggle several aspects of storytelling at the same time. Be sure to check this website any time you have a question about difficult writing topics. What is jaak casinoAbenomics? Abenomics is the nickname for the economic policies set out for Japan in 2012 when prime minister Shinzo Abe came into power for a second time. Abenomics involved increasing the nations money supply, boosting government spending, and enacting reforms to make the Japanese economy more competitive. The Economist outlined the program as a "mix of reflation, government spending, and a growth strategy designed to jolt the economy out of suspended animation that has gripped it for more than two decades." Understanding Abenomics Abenomics refers to the economic policies of a particular politician, in the same way, that Reaganomics or Clintonomics does. Abenomics was promoted as a way to shake Japan's economy out of a period of minimal growth and overall deflation. Japan's economic troubles dated back to the 90s, also known as the Lost Decade. It was a period of marked economic stagnation in Japan, following a massive real estate bubble burst in the 1980s, and Japan's asset price bubble burst in the early 90s. The Japanese government responded to the economic fallout by running massive budget deficits to fund pubic works projects. In 1998, economist Paul Krugman argued in a paper titled "Japan's Trap" that Japan could raise inflation expectations by committing to an irresponsible monetary policy for a period of time, thereby cutting long-term interest rates and promoting the spending needed to break out of economic stagnation. Key Takeaways Abenomics is a set of economic policies championed by Japanese prime minister, Shinzo Abe, when he came into power a second time in 2012. Abenomics was originally described as a three arrow approach of increasing the money supply, undertaking government spending to stimulate the economy, and undertaking economic and regulatory reforms to make Japan more competitive in the global market. Abenomics has grown as prime minister Abe continues to govern Japan, and now encompasses goals for female employment, sustainable growth, and a concept known as Society 5.0 which is aimed at the further digitalization of Japan. Japan adopted some of Krugman's recommendations, expanding the money supply domestically and keeping interest rates remarkably low. This facilitated an economic recovery, beginning in 2005, but it ultimately did not stop deflation. In July 2006, Japan ended its zero-rate policy as Abe took power in his first term as prime minister. Abe would resign as prime minister suddenly in 2007, but continued to serve in the ruling party. Though still having the lowest interest rates in the world, Japan could not stop deflation. The country saw the Nikkei 225 drop more than 50% between the end of 2007 and the beginning of 2009. In part due to the economic malaise Japan seemed unable to shake, Abe's party, the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan (LDP), lost power to the Democratic Party of Japan. Abenomics and the Three Arrows Abe began a second term in December 2012. Soon after resuming office, he launched his Abenomics plan to bolster Japans stagnant economy. In a speech following his election, Abe announced that he and his cabinet would "implement bold monetary policy, flexible fiscal policy and a growth strategy that encourages private investment, and with these three pillars, achieve results." Abes program consisted of three arrows. The first was printing additional currency between 60 trillion yen to 70 trillion yen to make Japanese exports more attractive and generate modest inflationroughly 2%. The second arrow was new government spending programs to stimulate demand and consumptionto stimulate short-term growth, and to achieve a budget surplus over the long term. The third component of Abenomics was more complexa reform of various regulations to make Japanese industries more competitive and to encourage investment in and from the private sector. This included corporate governance reform, easing of restrictions on hiring foreign staff in special economic zones, making it easier for companies to fire ineffective workers, liberalizing the health sector, and implementing measures the help domestic and foreign entrepreneurs. The proposed legislation also aimed to restructure the utility and pharmaceutical industries and modernize the agricultural sector. Most important, perhaps, was the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), which was described by economist Yoshizaki Tatsuhiko as potentially the "linchpin of Abe's economic revitalization strategy," by making Japan more competitive through free trade. Did Abenomics Work? Like all Japanese economic policy since the bubble burst, Abenomics has worked well at times and stalled at others. Inflation targets have been met and Japan's unemployment rate is more than 2% lower than when Abe came to power for the second time. Similarly, nominal GDP has increased and corporate pre-tax profit and tax revenues have both seen significant rises. However, Japan's periods of success have been halted at times by global economic forces and the country's most significant economic problem - a rapidly aging population - has increasingly taken the forefront. During the week leading up to the general election in Texas, incumbent governor Greg Abbott threw out a bone that got commercial casino operators perking their ears up. He said hes looking at the possibility of allowing commercial casinos to open in Texas which would see them compete with tribal gaming operators there. Now, Texas senator Carol Alvarado has introduced a bill to create a gambling commission in the state and place a referendum on the ballot to allow citizens to vote on whether or not theyd like to see up to four new casino resorts and a variety of smaller gambling and sports betting venues. Neither the recently re-elected Gov. Abbots proposal nor Senator Alvarados have been discussed officially as the legislative session does not begin again until January 10, 2023. Would be a Sea Change for Texas As written, Senate Joint Resolution 17 would create a sea change for gambling in Texas where most residents travel to nearby states to play cards or slots, take a gambling cruise, or visit one of the three tribal casinos only one of which is recognized by the state as a casino. Major cities with populations of two million or more would be eligible to host one of the four casino resorts and smaller cities could open less intensive gambling venues. The only current full-scale casino operation in the state is the Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino in Eagles Pass near the Mexican border and about 2 hours from San Antonio, a city with about 1.5m people. Another on again off again bingo/keno slots hall and entertainment center is located in El Paso, and the most recent addition to tribal gaming is Naskila Gaming in Livingston a site the government fought hard to put down but finally conceded to allow in July after courts ruled in the Alabama-Coushatta Tribes favor to allow the slots hall to remain open. The bill would allow for small-scale gaming floors at racetracks as well as Indian gaming facilities. The Resolution states that it is: proposing a constitutional amendment to foster economic development and job growth and to provide tax relief and funding for education and public safety by creating the Texas Gaming Commission, authorizing and regulating casino gaming at a limited number of destination resorts and facilities licensed by the commission, authorizing sports wagering, requiring occupational licenses to conduct casino gaming, and requiring the imposition of a tax. Las Vegas Sands is Chomping at the Bit Las Vegas Sands has already spent about $1.5 million lobbying for commercial gambling in the state through The Texas Destination Resort Alliance. The casino question was not a hot-button issue during the lead-up to the election, with both candidates supporting the economic benefits to the state that commercial gambling could bring. In October, the democratic contender for the governors office, Beto ORourke, told the Fort Worth Star Telegram: Allowing limited forms of gambling in Texas would generate billions of dollars in new state revenue every year that we could use to increase school funding and lower property taxes. I am open to exploring the idea of legalizing and closely regulating sports bettings, as two-thirds of US states have done. Im also open to letting voters decide on destination-style casinos in our biggest metro areas and lifting burdensome limitations on casinos already being operated by our Tribal nations while working with local leaders and community members to ensure that any casino in Texas benefits the community in which it operates. The 88th Texas Legislatures regular session runs from Jan. 10 to May 29, 2023, with republicans in control of both chambers. Source: Texas Senator proposes four destination casinos, sports betting and small-scale gambling in latest bill, G3 Newswire, November 18, 2022 888 poker deposit blackjack expertshows grade level based on the word's complexity. dandiprat [ dan-dee-prat ]/ dn diprt / New Word List Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.[ dan-dee-prat ]/ dn diprt /Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. a diminutive person; a dwarf. a person of small or childish mind; a silly, finicky, or puerile person. a child. nouna silver coin of 16th-century England, equal to about twopence.Archaic. Words nearby dandiprat British Dictionary definitions for dandiprat QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Question dandipratFirst recorded in 151020; origin uncertainD&D, dandelion, dander, Dandie Dinmont, dandify, dandiprat, dandle, Dandolo, Dandong, dandruff, D&SDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022C16: of unknown originCollins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 Illustration: Xia Qing/GT It's no secret that almost everyone wants to look attractive. As an ancient Chinese saying goes,"Loving beauty is part of human nature." Indeed, it seems like the only thing that has changed from the ancient past up to now is how people make themselves look more appealing. Nowadays, more and more people choose to "beautify" themselves with the help of modern medical technologies. As a result, the medical beauty market started to grow rapidly. But for many people, beauty comes with a price, and sometimes it is too high to pay. Problems that occurred in the industry of aesthetic medicine, including seemingly endless surgery failures and deaths from surgery, have worried many. According to a report from last year, only 14 percent of all medical beauty clinics in China are completely legal. Therefore, the Chinese government is urged to take more serious measures to regulate the industry. Apart from that, people also have to change their minds. They need to understand how to choose clinics with caution, and most importantly, that it is unhealthy to pursue beauty excessively. After all, in many cases, beauty is only skin deep. That moment you step into your first physical or virtual casino can be exhilarating. At the back of your mind,shiba inu coin trade ban roulette you're probably hoping to win big bucks, or become some sort of gambling legend. Needless to say, it does not often go that way. Tell me if this sounds familiar; playing the wrong casino games or diving into a game after only practising once. Do you make these common casino mistakes? Well, it's inevitable, especially if you are new to the world of gambling and casinos. But one mistake can clean you out in ways you have never imagined. Thankfully, these days, you have the chance to get ahead of the game by avoiding some rookie mistakes, here it goes. 1. Going right in with high stakes. Sure it takes money to make money, but you need to pump the brakes when it comes to spending at casinos. It is true that the higher the stakes, the bigger the win, but remember that it could go the other way. So, before you throw caution to the wind, ensure that you have a clear understanding of the different wagers in a game and plan your bets accordingly. Sure, gambling can lead to a big payout, but this is one game where it's advisable to go in without the intent to win big. Note that gambling is not a retirement plan, so simply, have fun and look at all wins as a nice plus. 2. Spending too much time and money in online casinos. If you thought physical casinos were wondrous, you've never stepped into an online casino. Whether you are looking for online casinos in New Jersey or something closer to your area, the possibilities are endless. That's a blessing and a curse because while you can take your pick, you can easily lose yourself in all the games available. Even more, it's easy to spend more money than you anticipated once it's all there at your disposal. So, make a conscious effort to pace yourself once you get started. 3. Playing at unlicensed casinos. We already established that if you are playing online, there are so many options to pick from. That leaves you open to the risk of playing at an unlicensed casino where the risks are endless. You could lose a lot of money when it comes to patronizing unlicensed gambling sites since they are not obligated to play fair. Thankfully, it is not hard to pinpoint the legitimate sites, they make it known that they have the stipulated operating licenses whether it's at a state or federal level. They will also be registered under the proper regulatory agencies. 4. Believing in gamblers fallacy. There is this general belief that if one outcome occurs several times, the opposite of that outcome will take place during the following tries. It's easy to see how people would believe gamblers fallacy, it sounds logical. Nevertheless, each hand played is totally independent so your previous outcomes have no effect on the next. So, don't put too much thought into your past results and outcomes, just play every hand as a stand-alone. Category: Casino Blog Gotion High-Tech, a Chinese battery maker, opened its first European assembly line on Saturday, in Gottingen, Germany, where it hopes to make inroads into the continent's huge demand for electric vehicles. The company's executives, officials from China's Anhui province, where the company's headquarters is located, and the governor of Germany's Lower Saxony region were among guests who witnessed the first battery produced at the factory. The plant, which used to be an auto parts factory run by Bosch, was acquired by Gotion High-Tech in 2021, and converted into a battery factory. It is expected to deliver batteries for electric cars and energy storage systems for Gotion High-Tech's clients in Europe starting in October. Stephan Weil, governor of Lower Saxony, said he appreciated Gotion High-Tech's investment in the region, which is the major automotive industrial hub in Germany, and added that battery products have good prospects in the coming decades, as more people start driving electric vehicles. The company said it has already received large orders from Europe and the factory will produce at a capacity of 5 gigawatt-hours in 2024. With a designed output capacity of 20 GWh per year, the factory will expand its production lines in four phases. Michael Schumann, chairman of the German Federal Association for Economic Development and Foreign Trade, said: "In order to achieve the climate protection targets in the transport sector, at least 15 million fully electric cars must be on German roads by 2030... "The new suppliers from China will stimulate the market and help e-mobility gain faster and broader acceptance in Germany. And that applies just as much to the charging infrastructure as to the battery technology." Gotion High-Tech also signed cooperation agreements with five companies on Saturday, including for research and development of battery materials with German company BASF, to do with factory automation with Swiss company ABB, and for an energy storage system, with Ebusco, from the Netherlands. Earlier this month, the company, which is traded on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange with the biggest shareholder being Volkswagen, bought a 25 percent stake in Inobat, a Slovak startup battery maker. Li Zhen, chairman of Gotion High-Tech, said on Saturday: "We hope to work with our European partners to promote the development of EV and new energy industries, and contribute to a successful global energy transformation." Illustration: Xia Qing/Global Times On an ordinary afternoon thisweek, a message topped the list of trending topics on China's social media, mentioning only two car plate numbers. Just before Beijing's evening rush hour began, a seven-month-old baby with spinal muscular atrophy was taken in the ambulance with the mentioned plate number, accompanied by another, 3 minutes after arriving at Beijing West Station. As more people noticed the message and shared it on social media, a lifeline to the Capital Institute of Pediatrics was opened as cars made way for the ambulances. The journey, which normally takes 50 minutes, took just 16 minutes. This is the true meaning and power of public resources. It's a real-life display of Chinese people's respect for life and care for children. May the baby, rescued by the unity of his compatriots, recover and grow up with best wishes. The Greens New South Wales suggested that the Australian states clubs should be prevented from transferring licenses for poker machines to other venuesand thus, large premises will no longer feature more pokies than it is necessary in suburban areas with economic problems. The Greens NSW is New South Wales Greens party. At present, it has six members of local parliament, a Senator, a Mayor, and a total of 44 government councils. The partys members are bound around principles that include involvement in environmental issues, social and economic justice, non-violence, etc. Upper House MP John Kaye, who is member of the Greens, pointed out that poker machines licenses should be capped. He suggested that at first, clubs should be granted no more than 500 licenses each. The number, however, will be gradually reduced to 200 in the years to come. According to Mr. Kaye, venues will be given enough time to prepare for the changes. What is more, he stated that they will probably not have any negative effect on businesses they will only be prevented from installing more and more pokies in poorer areas of the state. The Greens member pointed out that a restriction on poker machines that was imposed by former Premier of New South Wales Bob Carr proved to be ineffective. Furthermore, at least 47,000 residents of the statewere reported to have shown symptoms of gambling addiction, due to the increased number of pokies in larger clubs. Last year, research was carried out and the results showed that a total of 26 clubs have merged together since 2012, when new rules that forfeited poker machines licenses were introduced. Thus, machines in the wealthier parts of the state were moved to venues that were owned by the same company but were located in poorer areas. The New South Wales Government, led by Premier Mike Baird, did not respond to upper house members recommendations for problem gambling inquiry before the elections took place back in 2014. Last month, Deputy Premier Troy Grant sent a letter to those members, in which he stated that their request will be paid due attention in the months to come and a response will be announced. In October 2014, the Baird administration signed an agreement with New South Wales clubs, under which the Government was supposed to consider a proposal for pokies licenses to be granted to other clubs. What is more, the stringent measures related to mergers were also to be reviewed and reduced, if possible. casino sites au bonus no depositshows grade level based on the word's complexity. dayside [ dey-sahyd ]/ desad / New Word List Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.[ dey-sahyd ]/ desad /Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. nounJournalism. the day shift of a newspaper.Astronomy. the side of a planet or moon illuminated by the sun. Words nearby dayside QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Question daysideFirst recorded in 196065; day + sidedaysail, day sailer, day school, dayshell, day shift, dayside, daysman, Days of Awe, days of grace, days of wine and roses, dayspringDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 This lightning link free coinsphoto taken on Nov. 16, 2022 shows a scene of the presentation ceremony of Macao Science and Technology Awards held in south China's Macao. (Xinhua/Cheong Kam Ka) MACAO, Nov. 16 (Xinhua) -- The presentation ceremony of Macao Science and Technology Awards was held here Wednesday, with 22 projects and 30 graduate students awarded for their scientific and research achievements in respective fields. The Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government has in recent years been devoted to improving Macao's scientific and technological innovation system, nurturing local talents, and promoting the application of research fruits, said Lei Wai Nong, secretary for economy and finance of the SAR government at the ceremony. He encouraged science workers in Macao to seize opportunities brought by the building of the Guangdong-Macao in-depth cooperation zone in Hengqin, Zhuhai city, and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area to jointly promote scientific and technological development in Macao. Zhang Kang, associate dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Macao University of Science and Technology, led his team to win the award for their studies on the infection mechanism and treatment of COVID-19 based on artificial intelligence and multi-omics. Zhang said the Macao SAR government's support for medical researchers will greatly promote the development of medical science and research and help develop Macao into a world-class place for the application of biological and medical innovations. The awards, founded in 2011, are presented every two years. It denotes the person that puts on the badge, puts on the blue uniform, and goes into the streets to put their life at risk. GOP leaders refused; they saw that Duke was pulling blue-collar Democrats to the party. Yeah, the Giant man-puppy that is Gronkowski won't hold a sexual candle to the blue-eyed dreamboat. Clad in a blue, striped button-down, a silver watch adorning his left wrist, Huckabee beams on the cover. They looked up into the blue sky as the helicopters flew over in a lost man formation. Choking Back Tears, Thousands of Cops Honor Fallen Officer Ramos|Michael Daly|December 28, 2014|DAILY BEAST In pursuing his alchemical researches, he discovered Prussian blue, and the animal oil which bears his name. The Every Day Book of History and Chronology|Joel Munsell Mary is fair as the morning dew Cheeks of roses and ribbons of blue! Boys and Girls Bookshelf; a Practical Plan of Character Building, Volume I (of 17)|Various His nose was hooked and rather large, his eyes were blue, bright as steel, and set a trifle wide. St. Martin's Summer|Rafael Sabatini The most promising of the methods which have been devised are cryoscopy, the methylene-blue test, and the phloridzin test. A Manual of Clinical Diagnosis|James Campbell Todd Its not always easy to remember the meanings of English words. English contains many words borrowed or anglicized from a variety of earlier languages, so etymology is not always a clear indicator. Likewise, pronunciation varies from region to region, and even spelling is standardized according to separate American and British norms. Even with these obstacles in place, its not impossible to determine the meaning of English words, or to use them correctly. Allusion and illusion are two words that often confuse beginning writers or English language learners, but distinguishing between them is not difficult. Should you use illusion or allusion in your writing? You can find out by reading this article. What is the Difference Between Allusion and Illusion? In this article, I will compare allusion vs. illusion and use each in a sentence. I will also show you a helpful trick for remembering whether allusion or illusion is the better word to choose. When to Use Allusion What does allusion mean? An allusionis a reference to something else, especially in a literary work. Here are some examples: The title of Rudyard Kiplings The Sound and the Furyis an allusion to Shakespeare. S. Eliots The Waste Land has many allusions to Eastern religion and mythology. The candidate made frequent allusions to her opponents notorious verbal blunders. There has been talk of this album for years by potential collaborators and by Ocean himself, either directly or through allusions. The Washington Post Even though allusion is primarily a literary term, anyone can make an allusion. Its use is fairly common, even outside literary circles. Allusionhas become synonymous with any reference to an outside source that isnt mentioned by name. When to Use Illusion What does illusion mean? An illusiontraditionally refers to a visual trick. It is sometimes used in the context of anything that disguises or hides the truth, like in the following instances: This optical illusion hurts my eyes, said Thomas. The appearance of strength was an illusion, and beneath her confident exterior, Emily was plagued by self-doubt. Samir bought expensive clothes to give the illusion of wealth, but in reality, he was deep in debt. It is an illusion to think that, by waiting in line, we are buying complete safety. In every domain, we make a trade-off between risks and costs. We do not post 10-mile-per-hour speed limits on all highways, even though that would be safer. The New York Times Trick to Remember the Difference It can be difficult to remember illusion vs. allusion, especially since they are spelled and pronounced very similarly. You can remember to use illusionto refer to visual trickery since it contains the word ill.Many people start to feel illafter theyve looked at an optical illusionfor too long. By using this mnemonic, you should never have trouble choosing illusion or allusion in your writing. Summary Is it illusion or allusion?Since allusion and illusion are so close in terms of spelling, it can be frustrating to have to remember their different meanings. Many people mix up these words. You can be confident, however, that you know which one is correct. All you need to remember is that illusion contains the word ill. This should be easy to remember since looking at optical illusions makes many people feel ill. Now that you know the difference between these two words, you will never need to wonder whether to use allusion or illusion in your writing. You can always reread this article if youd like a refresher on the meanings of these words. What Is Series B Financing?abradoodle bingo free tickets Series B financing is the second round of funding for a business through investment, including private equity investors and venture capitalists. Successive rounds of financing a business are consecutively termed Series A, Series B, and Series C financing. The Series B round generally takes place when the company has accomplished certain milestones in developing its business and is past the initial startup stage. Key Takeaways Series B financing is the second round of funding for a company that has met certain milestones and is past the initial startup stage. Series B investors usually pay a higher share price for investing in the company than Series A investors. Series B investors typically prefer convertible preferred stock vs. common stock due to the anti-dilution feature of preferred stock. Series B funding can come from private equity investors, venture capitalists, crowdfunded equity, and credit investments. Explaining Series B Financing How Series B Financing Works 1:48 In a Series B financing round, companies have advanced their business, resulting in a higher valuation by this time. Companies can seek various ways to raise funds in a Series B financing round. Series B investors usually pay a higher share price for investing in the company than the earlier investors through the Series A financing round. Series A financing involves capital raising for startups with a solid business model. Series A funds are usually from private equity firms and are used to expand operations by buying equipment and inventory as well as hiring staff. Series A funding is considered seed capital since it's designed to help new companies grow. Series B financing is the next stage of funding after the company has had time to generate revenue from sales. Investors have a chance to see how the management team has performed and whether the investment is worth it or not. As a result, Series B financing tends to have less risk associated with it versus Series A financing. However, Series A financiers get in at a lower share price to help compensate for that risk. Series B Equity Publicly-traded companies can raise capital or money by increasing the number of equity shares issued on the open market. However, one of the drawbacks of raising funds via the issuance of new shares can be share dilution. Dilution occurs when the existing shareholders see their percentage of ownership decrease as a result of new shares being issued. Dilution can lead to a lower stock price and valuation, which can be disconcerting for early investors. To help mitigate the risks of dilution, Series B equity investors typically prefer to receive convertible preferred stock versus common stock. The preference stems from the various anti-dilution features that are available for preferred stock investors. Also, preferred stockholders are paid dividends before common stockholders. Dividends are cash payments from the company to its shareholders. Series B Financing Resources In addition to the public markets, businesses have an increasing number of fundraising resources for which they can obtain capital. In Series B funding, companies often utilize their previously pursued fundraising channels due to familiarity and reporting convenience. In some cases, the early investors from the Series A financing may want to up their stake in the company by lending them more money. For startups and small businesses, Series B financing funding can come from private equity investors, venture capitalists, and credit investments. Direct capital raising from private equity investors and venture capitalists may require some specific investment constraints, such as a percentage of capital limit from each investor. Overall, small businesses have a growing number of options from which to choose when raising capital at all stages of financing. In Series B financing, companies can select new financing methods that better fit their current situation or repeat similar funding methods as used in Series A financing. Series B Financing via Crowdfunding As companies grow and produce revenue, they can also attract new sources of funding through crowdfunded equity. In the crowdfunded market, businesses can offer their company for investment to an unconstrained market of retail, private equity, venture capital, and institutional investors. Businesses can also receive loans from crowdfunded investors, including the general public. These investing activities transact through an internet finance platform operated by a crowdfunded Internet finance provider. The provider connects companies with investors at low costs to both parties due to the minimized cost structures achieved through internet finance operations. Crowdfunded investments have become popular in the small business sector, thanks to federal government support and the Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act. These investments also have limitations on fundraising levels and capital allowances per investor. However, crowdfunded investments provide a wider market from which businesses can receive money. Real-World Examples of Series B Funding Although there are many examples of companies receiving private funding, two key sectors continue to be technology and healthcare. Below are three examples of series B financing. Robotics In February 2019, Mountain View, California-based robotics company Nuro raised $940 million in a Series B round from the SoftBank Vision Fundgiving it a valuation of $2.7 billion. The company, founded in 2016, previously raised $92 million in Series A funding co-led by Gaorong Capital and Greylock Partners. Self-Driving Technology Zoox, a self-driving technology development company founded in 2014, raised $500 million through Series B funding in July 2018. The Series B funding round was led by Mike Cannon-Brookes of Grok Ventures and gave the company a $3.2 billion valuation. In total, Zoox has raised $800 million. Healthcare Founded in 2017, Devoted Health raised $300 million through Series B funding in October 2018. The Waltham, Massachusetts-based insurance startup secured the funds from lead investor Andreessen Horowitz, Premji Invest and Uprising. Devoted Health serves seniors and offers various Medicare Advantage plans. What Is the Law of Diminishing Marginal Utility?chumba online real money casinos The law of diminishing marginal utility states that all else equal, as consumption increases, the marginal utility derived from each additional unit declines. Marginal utility is the incremental increase in utility that results from the consumption of one additional unit. "Utility" is an economic term used to represent satisfaction or happiness. Key Takeaways The law of diminishing marginal utility says that the marginal utility from each additional unit declines as consumption increases. The marginal utility can decline into negative utility, as it may become entirely unfavorable to consume another unit of any product. The marginal utility may decrease into negative utility, as it may become entirely unfavorable to consume another unit of any product. Understanding the Law of Diminishing Marginal Utility The marginal utility may decrease into negative utility, as it may become entirely unfavorable to consume another unit of any product. Therefore, the first unit of consumption for any product is typically highest, with every unit of consumption to follow holding less and less utility. Consumers handle the law of diminishing marginal utility by consuming numerous quantities of numerous goods. The law of diminishing marginal utility directly relates to the concept of diminishing prices. As the utility of a product decreases as its consumption increases, consumers are willing to pay smaller dollar amounts for more of the product. For example, assume an individual pays $100 for a vacuum cleaner. Because he has little value for a second vacuum cleaner, the same individual is willing to pay only $20 for a second vacuum cleaner. The law of diminishing marginal utility directly impacts a companys pricing because the price charged for an item must correspond to the consumers marginal utility and willingness to consume or utilize the good. Example of Diminishing Utility An individual can purchase a slice of pizza for $2, and is quite hungry, so they decide to buy five slices of pizza. After doing so, the individual consumes the first slice of pizza and gains a certain positive utility from eating the food. Because the individual was hungry and this is the first food consumed, the first slice of pizza has a high benefit. Upon consuming the second slice of pizza, the individuals appetite is becoming satisfied. They are not as hungry as before, so the second slice of pizza had a smaller benefit and enjoyment than the first. The third slice, as before, holds even less utility as the individual is now not hungry anymore. The fourth slice of pizza has experienced a diminished marginal utility as well, as it is difficult to be consumed because the individual experiences discomfort upon being full from food. Finally, the fifth slice of pizza cannot even be consumed. The individual is so full from the first four slices that consuming the last slice of pizza results in negative utility. The five slices of pizza demonstrate the decreasing utility that is experienced upon the consumption of any good. In a business application, a company may benefit from having three accountants on its staff. However, if there is no need for another accountant, hiring another accountant results in a diminished utility, as there is a minimum benefit gained from the new hire. What Is an Example of Diminishing Marginal Utility? Diminishing marginal utility is the decline of enjoyment from consuming or buying one additional good. For example, a consumer buys a bag of chocolate and after one or two pieces their utility rises, but after a few pieces, their utility will start to decline with each additional piece that's consumedand eventually, after enough pieces, will likely result in negative equity. What Is Marginal Utility With an Example? Marginal utility is the enjoyment a consumer gets from each additional unit of consumption. It calculates the utility beyond the first product consumed. If you buy a bottle of water and then a second one, the utility gained from the second bottle of water is the marginal utility. What Is a Utility Example? The utility is the degree of satisfaction or pleasure a consumer gets from an economic act. For example, a consumer can purchase a sandwich so they are no longer hungry, thus the sandwich provides some utility. 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In a circle graph (or pie chart), each part of the data is represented by a sector of the circle. Before technology and spreadsheet programs, one required skill with percentages and drawing angles. However, more often than not, the data is put into columns and converted into a circle graph or pie chart using a spreadsheet program or graphing calculator. In a pie chart or circle graph, the size of each sector will be proportional to the actual value of the data it represents as seen in the images. Percentages of the total of the sample are usually represented in the sectors. One of the more common uses for circle graphs or pie charts is poll results and surveys. A Pie Chart of Favorite Colors D. Russell In the favorite color graph, 32 students were given the opportunity to choose from red, blue, green, orange or other. If you knew that the following answers were 12, 8, 5, 4 and 3, you should be able to use that to select the largest sector and know that it represents the 12 students who selected red. When you calculate the percentage, you will soon discover that of the 32 students surveyed, 37.5% selected red. You have enough information to determine the percentage of the remaining colors. The pie chart tells you at a glance without having to read the data which would look like: Red 12 37.5% Blue 8 25.0% Green 4 12.5% Orange 5 15.6% Other 3 9.4% On the next page is the results of a vehicle survey, the data is given, and you need to determine which vehicle corresponds to the color on the pie chart/circle graph. Vehicle Survey Results in a Pie/Circle Graph D. Russell Fifty-three cars went by the street in during the 20 minute period the survey was taken. Based on the following numbers, can you determine which color represents the vehicle? There were 24 cars, 13 trucks, 7 SUVs, three motorcycles and six vans. Remember that the largest sector will represent the largest number, and the smallest sector will represent the smallest number. For this reason, survey and polls are often put into pie/circle graphs as the picture is worth a thousand words and in this case, it tells the story quickly and efficiently. You may wish to print some of the graphs and chart worksheets in PDF for additional practice. white sox august 31 mindil casino auther: sports source: images browse: bigmiddiosmall release time: 2023-11-01 12:03:57 Comments: Chinese President Xi Jinping left here Thursday for the Thai capital of Bangkok after attending the 17th Group of 20 Summit on this white sox august 31 mindil casinoIndonesian resort island. Xi will next attend the 29th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Economic Leaders' Meeting and pay a visit to Thailand. What Is Loss Development?big wins slot machines Loss development is the difference between the final losses recorded by an insurer and what the insurer originally recorded. Loss development seeks to account for the fact that some insurance claims take a long time to settle, and that estimates of the total loss an insurer will experience will adjust as claims are finalized. Key Takeaways Loss development is the difference between what an insurer initially records for liabilities versus the final level of claims. A loss development factor allows insurers to adjust claims to their projected final levels. One of the most important factors for insurers when determining potential losses is the amount of time that it will take to process a claim. Incurred But Not Reported (IBNR) How Loss Development Works 1:42 Insurance companies use loss development factors in insurance pricing and reserving to adjust claims from their initial projected estimate to the final amount actually paid out after a successful claim. Insurers have to take a number of factors into account when determining what, if any, losses they may face from the insurance policies that they underwrite. One of the most important factors is the amount of time that it takes to process a claim. While claims may be reported, processed, and closed during a particular policy period, they may also be reported in later policy periods and may not be settled for a long period of time. This can make reporting complicated and, at best, based off an approximation of the loss that the insurer will ultimately experience. Reported but not settled (RBNS) losses are those that have been reported to an insurance company that have not been settled by the end of the policy period. RBNS losses are initially calculated using an estimation of the severity of the loss based on the available information from the claims settlement process. Incurred But Not Reported (IBNR) is another type of reserve used in the insurance industry as the provision for claims and/or events that have transpired but have not yet been reported to an insurance company. In IBNR situations, an actuary will estimate potential damages, and the insurance company may decide to set up reserves to allocate funds for the expected losses. Loss Development Factor Insurance claims in long-tailed lines, such as liability insurance, are often not paid immediately. Claims adjusters set initial case reserves for claims; however, it is often impossible to accurately predict what the final amount of an insurance claim will be for a variety of reasons. Loss development factors are used by actuaries, underwriters, and other insurance professionals to "develop" claim amounts to their estimated final value. Ultimate loss amounts are necessary for determining an insurance company's carried reserves. They are also useful for determining adequate insurance premiums, when loss experience is used as a rating factor. A loss development factor (LDF) is used to adjust losses to account for claim increases. The LDF is a number that is meant to adjust claims to their ultimate projected level. For example, an LDF of 2.0 means that for every $1 in claims, the ultimate payout will be $2. If an insurer had $100,000 in current claims, the ultimate payout would be $200,000 with an LDF of 2.0. Loss amounts are key for pricing insurance premiums and determining carried reserves. Requirements for Loss Development Insurers use a loss development triangle when evaluating loss development. The triangle compares loss development for a specific policy period over an extended period of time. For example, an insurer may look at loss development for the 2018 policy period at twelve month intervals over the course of five years. This means that it will examine the 2018 loss development in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022. Insurers are required to report their financial position to state regulators who use these reports to determine whether an insurer is in good financial health or if there is a risk of insolvency. Regulators may use a loss development triangle to compare the percentage change across time periods, and use this percentage when making estimates of its loss development for a particular insurer in upcoming periods. If the rate of change fluctuates substantially over time the regulator may contact the insurer to find out why its loss estimates are off the mark. What Is a Bookie?springbok casino mobile A bookie, short or slang for bookmaker, is someone who facilitates gambling, most commonly on sporting events. A bookie sets odds, accepts and places bets, and pays out winnings on behalf of other people. Key Takeaways The term bookie is slang for bookmaker. A bookie places bets for customers, usually on sporting events. They also set odds and pay out winnings on behalf of other people. The bookies goal is to maintain balance in the books by adjusting the odds as much as possible to maintain an even amount of people betting on a win or loss. Understanding Bookies Bookies do not usually make their money by placing bets themselves; rather, they charge a transaction fee on their customers bets known as the vigorish (vig for short). Bookies may also lend money to bettors. A bookie can be an individual or an organization. Although the term bookie has been associated with illegal activity, with the expansion of sports betting, being a bookmaker has become a legitimate occupation. However, bookmaking and placing bets through a bookmaker can still be illegal. The legality of different types of gambling is largely determined by state governments. In 2018, the Supreme Court gave states permission to legalize betting on sports if they wish to do so, a landmark ruling that paved the way for bookies to make lots of money without running afoul of the law. History of Bookies and Sports Betting Throughout most of the 20th and 21st centuries, sports betting in the U.S. was only completely legal in Nevada, though it was legal in certain forms in Delaware, Montana, and Oregon. As a result, a black market developed for the rest of the country whereby illegal operations of bookies provided opportunities for betting. Some bookies were involved in organized crime, while others operated independently, simply taking bets for a few friends, family members, or colleagues. However, in 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, which was a federal law preventing states from deciding on their own whether to allow sports betting. The ruling opened the door for its practice throughout the country if states decide in favor of it. Previously, Nevada was the only state to offer comprehensive legal sports betting. Since that ruling, many states have moved to legalize sports betting. This has prompted record gambling revenues throughout the country with combined revenue from traditional gambling, sports betting, and iGaming amounting to $52.99 billion in 2021, the highest-grossing year ever and an increase of more than 21% from the previous annual record in 2019. According to reporting by Forbesin August 2021, sports betting companies have been announcing a flurry of acquisitions, seeking to capitalize. $150 billion The amount the American Gaming Association estimated that Americans illegally wagered on sports each year before the 2018 Supreme Court ruling. Bookies and Setting the Odds One of the crucial ways bookies ensure their winnings is by calculating the odds that they will win an event, sometimes by employing teams of statisticians and developing complex models. The terms lines (short for money lines) and spreads (as in point spreads) are critical factors for bookies. Sometimes these calculations are based on those developed by casino actuaries or those who deal with risk calculations. Typically, they underscore which sports team the bookies believe will win a game or match. The lines and spreads can be adjusted in the time leading up to the event based on various bets made in their books and fluctuations in Vegas casino bets. Other unexpected events might impact the odds, such as poor weather, player injuries, and doping scandals. The bookies goal is to maintain balance in the books by adjusting the odds as much as possible so that theres an even amount of people betting on a win or loss. If the book is balanced, the bookie in effect earns just the vig. However, if theres a one-sided bet on a particular team or outcome, the bookie takes on an increased risk of losing money. Gambling always involves a negative expected returnthe house always has the advantage. Is Being a Bookie Illegal in the U.S.? No, not necessarily. In 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court opened the door for sports betting throughout the country if states decide in favor of it. Some 33 states have since moved to legalize sports betting, effectively ending the need for bookies to operate illegally in those states. It is still fully illegal in 17 states. However, that isnt to say that all bookmakers are law-abiding. Betting is still illegal in some states, and some bookies may prefer to conduct business under the table to avoid facing obstacles and paying taxes. How Do Bookies Make Money? Bookies make money by charging a fee on each bet they take, known as the "vigorish" or the "vig, and pay out money when their customers win a bet. Their goal, understandably, is to make sure that incomings exceed outgoings. That is generally achieved by adjusting the odds so that theres an even amount of people betting on a win or loss. How Much Is a Bookie Fee? The vig that bookies charge is usually in the region of 10%, though it can go higher for high-profile bets, such as a tight line on the Super Bowl. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700, or visit ncpgambling.org/chat to chat with a helpline specialist. The Bottom Line The Supreme Courts 2018 ruling invalidating the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act has led to the rapid expansion of sports betting across the U.S., with even family-friendly companies such as Walt Disney getting into the act. This means that the profession of bookmaker no longer needs to be an illegal one, though it still can be in some situations. Anyone thinking of becoming a bookie, however, would do well to study the considerable requirements of the job first. Many skills are required to achieve success in the field, while losing money at gambling is an all-too-easy accomplishment. What Is an Accounting Standard?roulette colour strategy An accounting standard is a common set of principles, standards, and procedures that define the basis of financial accounting policies and practices. Key Takeaways An accounting standard is a set of practices and policies used to systematize bookkeeping and other accounting functions across firms and over time. Accounting standards apply to the full breadth of an entitys financial picture, including assets, liabilities, revenue, expenses, and shareholders' equity. Banks, investors, and regulatory agencies count on accounting standards to ensure information about a given entity is relevant and accurate. GAAP Understanding Accounting Standards 1:43 Accounting standards improve the transparency of financial reporting in all countries. In the United States, the generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) form the set of accounting standards widely accepted for preparing financial statements. International companies follow the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), which are set by the International Accounting Standards Board and serve as the guideline for non-U.S. GAAP companies reporting financial statements. The generally accepted accounting principles are heavily used among public and private entities in the United States. The rest of the world primarily uses IFRS. Multinational entities are required to use these standards. The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) establishes and interprets the international communities' accounting standards when preparing financial statements. Accounting standards relate to all aspects of an entitys finances, including assets, liabilities, revenue, expenses, and shareholders' equity. Specific examples of accounting standards include revenue recognition, asset classification, allowable methods for depreciation, what is considered depreciable, lease classifications, and outstanding share measurement. The American Institute of Accountants, which is now known as the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, and the New York Stock Exchange attempted to launch the first accounting standards in the 1930s. Following this attempt came the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which created the Securities and Exchange Commission. Accounting standards have also been established by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board for accounting principles for all state and local governments. Accounting standards specify when and how economic events are to be recognized, measured, and displayed. External entities, such as banks, investors, and regulatory agencies, rely on accounting standards to ensure relevant and accurate information is provided about the entity. These technical pronouncements have ensured transparency in reporting and set the boundaries for financial reporting measures. U.S. GAAP Accounting Standards The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants developed, managed, and enacted the first set of accounting standards. In 1973, these responsibilities were given to the newly created Financial Accounting Standards Board. The Securities and Exchange Commission requires all listed companies to adhere to U.S. GAAP accounting standards in the preparation of their financial statements to be listed on a U.S. securities exchange. Accounting standards ensure the financial statements from multiple companies are comparable. Because all entities follow the same rules, accounting standards make the financial statements credible and allow for more economic decisions based on accurate and consistent information. Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) An independent nonprofit organization, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) has the authority to establish and interpret generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) in the United States for public and private companies and nonprofit organizations. GAAP refers to a set of standards for how companies, nonprofits, and governments should prepare and present their financial statements. Why Are Accounting Standards Useful? Accounting standards improve the transparency of financial reporting in all countries. They specify when and how economic events are to be recognized, measured, and displayed. External entities, such as banks, investors, and regulatory agencies, rely on accounting standards to ensure relevant and accurate information is provided about the entity. These technical pronouncements have ensured transparency in reporting and set the boundaries for financial reporting measures. What Are Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)? In the United States, the generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) form the set of accounting standards widely accepted for preparing financial statements. Its aim is to improve the clarity, consistency, and comparability of the communication of financial information. Basically, it is a common set of accounting principles, standards, and procedures issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB). Public companies in the United States must follow GAAP when their accountants compile their financial statements. What Are International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)? International companies follow the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), which are set by the International Accounting Standards Board and serve as the guideline for non-U.S. GAAP companies reporting financial statements. They were established to bring consistency to accounting standards and practices, regardless of the company or the country. IFRS is thought to be more dynamic than GAAP in that it is regularly being revised in response to an ever-changing financial environment. What Is the Eurodollar?xfinity race odds top parlay picks The term eurodollar refers to U.S. dollar-denominated deposits at foreign banks or at the overseas branches of American banks. Because they are held outside the United States, eurodollars are not subject to regulation by the Federal Reserve Board, including reserve requirements. Dollar-denominated deposits not subject to U.S. banking regulations were originally held almost exclusively in Europe (hence, the name eurodollar). Now, they are also widely held in branches located in the Bahamas and the Cayman Islands. Key Takeaways Eurodollars refer to dollar-denominated accounts at foreign banks or overseas branches of American banks. The eurodollar market is one of the world's biggest capital markets and consists of sophisticated financial instruments. Understanding the Eurodollar The fact that the eurodollar market is relatively free of regulation means such deposits can pay higher interest. Their offshore location makes them subject to political and economic risk in the country of their domicile; however, most branches where the deposits are housed are in very stable locations. The eurodollar market is one of the world's primary international capital markets. They require a steady supply of depositors putting their money into foreign banks. These eurodollar banks may have problems with their liquidity if the supply of deposits drops. Deposits from overnight out to a week are priced based on the fed funds rate. Prices for longer maturities are based on the corresponding London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR). Eurodollar deposits are quite large; they are made by professional counterparties for a minimum of $100,000 and generally for more than $5 million. It is not uncommon for a bank to accept a single deposit of $500 million or more in the overnight market. A 2014 study by the Federal Reserve Bank showed an average daily volume in the market of $140 billion. Most transactions in the eurodollar market are overnight, which means they mature on the next business day. With weekends and holidays, an overnight transaction can take as long as four days. The transactions usually start on the same day they are executed, with money paid between banks via the Fedwire and CHIPS systems. Eurodollar transactions with maturities greater than six months are usually done as certificates of deposit (CDs), for which there is also a limited secondary market. History of the Eurodollar The eurodollar market dates back to the period after World War II. Much of Europe was devastated by the war, and the United States provided funds via the Marshall Plan to rebuild the continent. This led to wide circulation of dollars overseas, and the development of a separate, less regulated market for the deposit of those funds. Unlike domestic U.S. deposits, the funds are not subject to the Federal Reserve Bank's reserve requirements. They are also not covered by FDIC insurance. This results in higher interest rates for eurodollars. Many American banks have offshore branches, usually in the Caribbean, through which they accept eurodollar deposits. European banks are also active in the market. The transactions for Caribbean branches of U.S. banks are generally executed by traders physically situated in U.S. dealing rooms, and the money is on loan to fund domestic and international operations. Homophones are words that are pronounced alike but mean different things. Not only do they have different meanings, but they can also function as different parts of speech, like the words do and due. Although they are pronounced the same, these words cannot be substituted for each other in any circumstance. Continue reading to discover whether you should use due or do, depending on the context of your writing. What is the Difference Between Do and Due? In this post, I will compare do vs. due. I will use each word in at least one example sentence, so you can see it in context. Plus, I will show you a helpful memory tool that you can use to decide which of these words is best for your purposes. When to Use Do What does do mean? Do is a verb. To do somethingis toperform an action. Do is also used as an auxiliary verb, especially in the interrogative sense. Here are some examples of both meanings, Mark, did you ever do anything about the mess in the garage? asked Karen. Do you have any leftover pizza? asked Luke, who had already eaten his own pizza. After recording a 4-2 victory Monday over the Brewers, Gsellman said he would prefer to start but would do whatever the team wants him to do start or relieve. New York Post Do is an irregular verb, which means it does not share the conjugation rules of most verbs. Present Tense Conjugations of Do: I/we do: first person singular and plural You do: second person singular and plural He/she/it does: third person singular They do: third person plural. The past tense is also irregular for do. It is conjugated to did in the simple past tense. When to Use Due What does due mean? Due can be an adjective or a noun. As an adjective, due means something that is planned or expected. If a library book is due on a certain date, it is expected that you will return it by then. If your car is due for an oil change, you should plan to have this routine maintenance performed soon. Here are some more examples: Kyle Schwarber was due for a home run, and he hit a fastball 470 feet onto Sheffield Avenue. My statistics final was due at 5 p.m., but I did not submit it until 5:21 p.m. Hiring at small businesses surged in May, according to the monthly National Federation of Independent Business survey due out later today. The Wall Street Journal As a noun, do it is most often used in its plural form, dues. In this context, duerefers to regular membership payments made to a club or other organization. For example, I paid dues to the UAW for over a year, and the union used that money to defend machinists who fell asleep on the job. Due to or Do to? Both of these words are used with various phrases in English: pay your dues, in due course, do for, do someone in, etc. One of the more common phrases about which people ask questions is the phrase due toand its longer form due to the fact. Is this phrase due to or do to? This phrase is always spelled due to; it should never appear in your writing as do to. That said, this doesnt mean the words do and to will never appear next to each other in writing or speech. For example, What will you do to stop us? What can I do to help you? As for the use of phrase due to itself, the traditional view is that it should be restricted to adjectival uses where it means attributable to. For example, The increase in job growth was due to (attributable to) a series of tax cuts. Using due toas an equivalent of because is frowned upon in some writing circles, despite its increasing frequency. I was forced to retire due to budget cuts. -should read- I was forced to retire because of budget cuts. This is a subtle difference that less and less writers notice these days. Lastly, the longer phrase due to the factis rather clunky and, when possible (which is most of the time), simply choosing becauseis a better choice Trick to Remember the Difference Since do is a verb, and due is an adjective, the difference between these homophones is important to remember. Luckily, there is an easy trick to remember duevs. do. Remember that due is an adjective that means expected or planned. Since due and expected each contain the letter E, remembering which word is which is easy. Summary Is it do or due? Do and due are homophones, but they are different parts of speech. Do is a verb that means to perform an action. Due is an adjective that means expected or planned. Despite their similar pronunciations, they are never interchangeable in writing. The porcelain work "jadeite cabbage" Photo: Xinhua The news that three pieces of precious cultural relics were shattered in Taipei Palace Museum cannot be concealed anymore and has caused public outrage across the Taiwan Straits. People on both sides of the Straits and all the sons and daughters of the Chinese nation at home and abroad have not only greatly deplored the damage of the cultural relics, but also have doubts over the attitude, ability and motivation of the incumbent management of the Taipei Palace Museum regarding the protection of nearly 700,000 cultural relics housed there.The latest incident could be traced back to May of this year, but wasn't revealed until just a few days ago. The Taipei Palace Museum made a hasty and implausible explanation reluctantly. If the public hadn't exposed the incident, would it have been covered up by the Taipei Palace Museum forever? In places in the museum where the public has not paid attention to, are there more valuable artifacts that have been damaged but covered up?Signs indicate that it's no accident that such incidents have happened one after another in recent years. The root cause is that the DPP authorities' promotion of "de-Sinicization" in the Taiwan island has seriously affected the protection and management of cultural relics in the island. This deserves our high vigilance and firm opposition.It's known to all that the collections in the Taipei Palace Museum are extraordinary. They are cultural treasures belonging to the entire Chinese nation as well as testimony and inheritance of China's long history and splendid culture. They are of more special and richer historical, cultural and ethnic value as they went through China's war of resistance against Japanese aggression and the Chinese civil war and have become the cultural link and historical bonds that cannot be cut off between the Taiwan island and the Chinese mainland.However, the current management staff of the Taipei Palace Museum have spent more efforts in downplaying and avoiding these aspects than they have invested in the protection and management of the precious cultural relics. This has led to the repeated damage of the precious cultural relics. The batch of national treasures survived the gunfire of Japanese aggressors. They traveled thousands of miles but none was lost or damaged with the escort's protection. Why have they been damaged today? They have been in the Taiwan island for more than 70 years, and received no damages after three times of inventory inspection. How come the damage today? Although Wu Mi-cha, curator of the Taipei Palace Museum, made up various excuses, the outside world has enough reason to doubt that the root cause for the damage to the national treasures is the DPP authorities' "de-Sinicization" actions that go against the trend.The DPP authorities chose Wu to be the director of the Taipei Palace Museum not because of his professionalism or sense of responsibility, but because of his "pro-independence" color. Wu of course understood this. After having taken office, he greatly engaged in "de-Sinicization" in cooperation with the DPP authorities. In all those political manipulations, the valuable cultural relics of the Taipei Palace Museum have been taken as political resources, and the manipulations have consumed and undermined the professional ability and awe in the protection and management of cultural relics.The 1.4 billion people in the Chinese mainland as well as other Chinese around the world are in the position to demand an explanation and assurances from the Taipei Palace Museum and the DPP authorities. If they are unable to protect the priceless cultural relics, they should hand over the work to more professional, capable and responsible people. Previously, it was reported that the DPP authorities wanted to transfer 90,000 of the most priceless relics to the US and Japan. Although the DPP authorities denied this, it is an indisputable fact that the Taipei Palace Museum, which was manipulated by them, has marginalized Chinese culture on purpose.There were many cultural exchanges between museums from the two sides before the DPP authorities came to power. Directors of palace museums across the Straits carried out exchange visits and cultural exhibitions were jointly held. Visitors from the mainland frequently visit the Taipei Palace Museum. The highest record is that of visits of millions of mainland tourists a year. On June 11, 2011, under the joint promotion of insightful people from both sides of the Taiwan Straits, the "Remaining Mountain" and "the Master Wuyong Scroll," two part of the "Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains" that had been separated for hundreds of years, were combined and exhibited in Taipei, becoming a very symbolic scene of cross-Straits cultural exchanges.When the DPP authorities engaged in secessionist acts, precious cultural relics became sacrificial lambs. It used "jadeite cabbage," a rare piece in the Taipei Palace Museum collection, to campaign for DPP politicians. This time, three valuable cultural relics were damaged. There will be more serious consequences if this is allowed to go on. The only way to fundamentally get rid of the crisis of national treasures is to end the separation between the two sides of the Taiwan Straits.Only under reunification can national treasures be better protected, and cultural relics can better play their role in passing on the bloodline of the Chinese civilization. Illustration: Xia Qing/GT Local court in Nanjing,East China's Jiangsu Province, has recently ruled that a father's way of parenting constitutes domestic violence for forcing the kids to learn courses intended for higher education.The father with a doctorate degree surnamed Mao was reportedly forcing his 7-year-old son and 5-year-old daughter to learn advanced mathematics and ancient Chinese prose, subjects more commonly studied in university and high school.During their studies, he even abused and beat the two children.Reacting to his treatment of the children, Mao's wife applied for a personal safety protection order from a local court in Nanjing. The court classified Mao's practices as domestic violence.Netizens slammed the father of haste making waste. Every parent hopes for their children to have a bright future. Yet, this "tiger dad's" parenting is far too radical. Parents should avoid repeating this father's mistakes. Education should follow objective laws.Global Times The use of alright(one word) and all right(two words) is one that confuses many writers, especially young writers who may not even be aware of the debate behind the two forms. It is easy, however, to mistake the two for one another. After all, when you say them verbally, theres no telling them a part. They sound identical in speech, but which option should be used in written communications? Or can they both be used? Today, I want go over the differences between these words, talk about their histories, and give you a few tricks to remember which is which for the future. After reading this post, you shouldnt ever mix up alright vs. all right again. When to Use Alright Alright is the nonstandard variant of the two-word all right. It is widely considered incorrect and is best to avoid in your writing, especially any type of formal writing. The show we went to last night was alright. (Incorrect) I felt alright after I left the restaurant. (Incorrect) As time unfolds, however, we see alrightbeing used with greater frequency. As the below graph shows, from the 1970s onward, alrighthas seen its use increase considerably, signaling that it may eventually become standard as other words such as altogether and alreadyonce did. Altogetherand alreadyare much older and much more established words, however, dating back to the Middle Ages. Alrightis a relatively new variant, with a first recorded use in 1893. For this reason, the two-word all rightstill dominates in popular usage and is much more heavily preferred, being used at a rate 8 times that of the one-word alright. In fact, in the 2009 American Heritage Dictionaryusage survey, two-thirds of the Usage Panel rejected the use of the one-word alright, while over 90 percent accepted the two-word all rightis similar constructions. Things may change in the future, but when writing an essay for school or book for publishing today, you should avoid the use of the single-word alright. When to Use All Right All Right , as two words, is a phrase that can function as both an adjective and an adverb. All righthas a few different meanings: in proper or satisfactory condition; acceptable, allowable; in a satisfactory way; adequately. For example, The mechanic looked at the brakes to see if they were all right. (Adjective) If school is cancelled today, that is all right by me. (Adjective) I did all right, considering all the pressure. (Adverb) Anytime you are looking to use all right, it should appear as two separate words. As I mentioned above, the single-word alrightis generally considered an error and your instructor or editor will probably strike it out. In order to avoid any unnecessary mistakes, its best to just remember that, in this case, two words is the answer. Remember the Difference Alrightis not all right. The above sentence is a good memory tool to remember which option to use in your writing. Summary Confusing the words all right vs. alright can be an embarrassing and unnecessary mistake in your writing. Alright, one word, is considered to be a spelling error and should be avoided. All right, two words, is the preferred form. It is the older form and is used much more frequently than alright. There are two methods of finding the percent of change between two numbers. The first is to find the ratio of the amount of change to the original amount. If the new number is greater than the old number, then that ratio is the percent of increase, which will be a positive. If the new number is less than the old number, then that ratio is the percent of decrease, which will be a negative. So, the first thing to determine when finding the percent of change is whether you're looking at an increase or a decrease. Method 1: A Problem With an Increase Say one person had $200 in a savings account last month and now has $225. That's an increase. The problem is to find the percent of increase in money. First, subtract to find the amount of change: 225 - 25 = 200. The increase is 25. Next, divide the amount of change by the original amount: 25 200 = 0.125 Now, to change the decimal to a percent, multiply the number by 100: 0.125 X 100 = 12.5 The answer is 12.5%. So that's the percent of change, an increase of 12.5% in the savings account. Method 1: A Problem With a Decrease Say one person weighed 150 pounds last year and now weighs 125 pounds. That's a decrease. The problem is to find the percent of decrease in weight (the weight loss). First, subtract to find the amount of change: 150 - 125 = 25. The decrease is 25. Next, divide the amount of change by the original amount: 25 150 = 0.167 Now, to change the decimal to a percent, multiply the number by 100: 0.167 x 100 = 16.7 The answer is 16.7%. So that's the percent of change, a decrease of 16.7% in body weight. Method 2: A Problem With an Increase The second method of finding the percent of change between two numbers involves finding the ratio between the new number and the original number. Use the same example for this method of finding the percent of increase: One person had $200 in a savings account last month and now has $225. The problem is to find the percent of increase in money. First, divide the new amount by the original amount: 225 / 200 = 1.125 Next, to change the decimal to a percent, multiply the result by 100: 1.125 X 100 = 112.5% Now, subtract 100 percent from the result: 112.5% - 100% = 12.5% That's the same result as in Method 1: an increase of 12.5% in the savings account. Method 2: A Problem With a Decrease Use the same example for the second method of finding the percent of decrease: One person weighed 150 pounds last year and now weighs 125 pounds. The problem is to find the percent of decrease in weight. First, divide the new amount by the original amount: 125 / 150 = 0.833 Next, to change the decimal to a percent, multiply the result by 100: 0.833 X 100 = 83.3% Now, subtract 100% from the result: 83.3% - 100% = -16.7% That's the same result as in Method 1: a decrease of 16.7% in body weight. What Is the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)?free spins no deposit no id verification The term Federal Communications Commission (FCC) refers to an independent U.S. government agency that oversees all interstate and international communications. The FCC maintains standards and consistency among types of media and methods of communication while protecting the interests of consumers and businesses. It allocates cellular and wireless access, regulates media company mergers and acquisitions (M&A), protects intellectual property rights, and regulates standards of content and distribution for all media companies operating in the United States. The agency is accountable to U.S. Congress and its actions are monitored closely by investors. Key Takeaways The FCC is an independent U.S. government agency that answers to the United States Congress. The FCC oversees all interstate and international communications. It also maintains standards and consistency among media types and communication methods while protecting the interests of consumers and businesses. The agency is accountable to U.S. Congress and its actions are monitored closely by investors. The FCC is headed by a chair, who is one of five commissioners appointed by the President. Understanding the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) As noted above, the Federal Communications Commission is an independent agency that answers to the U.S. government. It was established in 1934 as part of the Communications Act, which is a law regulating domestic and foreign wire and radio communications. The law was further expanded to include satellite, television, and broadband communications. The agency's reach extends across the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and every U.S. territory. The FCC is considered the key authority in the United States that oversees communications law, regulation, and innovation in the technology sector. Its mission is to help advance the global communications industry through: economic support to ensure there is enough competition in the communications sector the revision of media regulations to allow new technologies to thrive the promotion of competition, innovation, and capital investment in broadband networks the strengthening of the national communication infrastructure The agency is headed by a chair, who is one of five commissioners appointed by the president. Each commissioner is confirmed by the Senate and serves a five-year term. Nearly 1,500 employees work collectively work the commissioners. They are divided into numerous bureaus and offices that focus on different aspects of the commission's duties. The FCC's actions affect public and private companies that engage in communications. Because of this, its decisions are closely monitored by stock market investors. That's because the regulations and resolutions adopted by the agency have a direct impact on corporate business lines and, therefore, people's investments. Commissioners cannot have a financial interest in any business regulated by the FCC in order to prevent conflicts of interest. FCC Regulations The agency's regulatory powers include the setting of manufacturing standards for communications equipment, decency standards in radio and television broadcasts, and ensuring competition. The commission includes an Office of Administrative Law Judges that hear disputes and issues decisions interpreting the agency's regulations. Tasked with enforcement of the Communications Act and FCC regulations, the commission's enforcement bureau conducts investigations, levies fines, and initiates administrative judgments against violators. FCC fines can tally as high as the tens of millions of dollars for some violations, which can affect the value of some companies. FCC Approvals The FCC's rulemaking and regulation process is established through what's called the "notice and comment" process. The agency provides the general public with notice, allowing people to submit comments before any rules are established, amended, or developed. These procedures may have wide-ranging effects on the competitive balance in the communication market. M&A activity of communications companies requires FCC approval. While this approval process is designed to protect consumers and prevent monopolies, it occasionally creates uncertainty for companies and investors while FCC approval is under review. Some don't actually receive approval, which can result in uncertainty for these companies. The FCC has long wielded significant regulatory powers with radio, television, and telephone providers. In 2015, the commission extended its reach to include broadband internet service providers (ISPs) by classifying the companies as common carriers under Title II of the Communications Act. The commission's decision to list broadband providers as common carriers occurred via a 3-2 vote that was along party lines. This vote highlights the potential effect the political affiliation of appointed commissioners can have on the regulatory interpretation of the commission. The FCC Under President Biden The agency is headed up by acting chair Jessica Rosenworcel, who was appointed by President Joe Biden on Jan. 21, 2021. Prior to her appointment, Rosenworcel worked in communications policy and public service. She worked as the United States Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation as senior communications counsel and practiced communications law. Under her leadership, the commission is expected to undertake several key initiatives. There is a great expectation the agency will take a different direction under the Biden administration than it did when Donald Trump was president. This includes: Making changes to Section 230, which protects content providers and users from "liability for publishing, removing, or restricting access" to someone else's content The advancement of 5G technology Security throughout the country and providing access to broadband where in areas where it is lacking Issues surrounding broadband privacy, the agency's transparency, industry mergers and ownership, and enforcement of penalties and regulations may also be addressed. Net Neutrality This is one of the major issues that the administration is expected to explore. The framework for the nation's net neutrality policies was laid out by the Obama administration. In effect, ISPs were required to give "equal and non-discriminatory access" to content that is available online. Put simply, the policies prohibited corporations from slowing down and blocking content from users. These policies were eliminated under the Trump administration in 2017. Biden hinted that the agency could penalize providers who go against these policies by blocking or prioritizing content to "create artificial scarcity and raise consumer prices." There is a possibility that the commission may also ban data caps, fees, and rates through its rulemaking process. 2-2 Deadlock The commission remained deadlocked, following the resignation of Ajit Pai, who served as chair under then-President Donald Trump. Two Republicans and two Democrats serve as commissioners: Brendan Carr is the senior Republican on the commission. Nominated by Trump, he was confirmed by the Senate in January 2019. Nathan Simington, another Trump nominee and Republican, was confirmed by the Senate in 2020. Jessica Rosenworcel, acting chair and Democrat, appointed by Biden Geoffrey Starks, a Democrat, was nominated by Trump and confirmed in 2019 Gigi Sohn was nominated by President Joe Biden to fill the remaining open seat on the FCC. Sohn is a Distinguished Fellow at the Georgetown Law Institute for Technology Law & Policy, and a Benton Senior Fellow and Public Advocate, known as a long time advocate for free and reduced cost access to broadband internet. Unsurprisingly, Sohn's FCC confirmation was opposed along party lines. In March 2022, the Senate Commerce Committee voted to advance Sohn's nomination, which will be voted on by the Senate. Why Was the FCC Created? The Federal Communications Commission was established in order to regulate interstate and international wire and radio communications. This mandate was expanded to include satellite, television, wireless, and broadband communications. The FCC governs in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and every U.S. territory. When Was the FCC Created? The FCC was created in 1934 as part of the Communications Act of 1934. What Does Net Neutrality Mean? Net neutrality is a policy that was adopted by the Obama administration in 2015 that would prevent corporations, including internet service providers, from blocking content and slowing down access to the internet. As such, these companies were required to provide equal access to online content. These policies, though, were eliminated in 2017 under the Trump administration. Who Controls the FCC? The FCC is an independent U.S. government agency that answers to the United States Congress. The Bottom Line The Federal Communications Commission was established in 1934 as part of the Communications Act. It aims to serve the interests of corporations and consumers by regulating the actions of communications networks, including the access they provide, competition and innovation in the industry, and maintaining consistency throughout the media landscape and methods of communication. Although it is an independent agency, it answers to the government. Its decisions also influence the stock market, which is why investors choose to monitor its actions. What Is a Share Certificate?win river resort and casino A share certificate is a written document signed on behalf of a corporation that serves as legal proof of ownership of the number of shares indicated. A share certificate is also referred to as a stock certificate. Key Takeaways Share certificates are documents issued by companies that sell shares in the market. A shareholder receives a share certificate as a receipt of his or her purchase and to reflect ownership of a specified number of shares of the company. In today's financial world, physical share certificates are issued only rarely, with digital records replacing them in most cases. A share certificate that is damaged, lost, or stolen can be reissued with a replacement certificate in respect of the same number of shares. Issuing paper stock certificates is labor-intensive and represents a big expense for the company. Ownership of paper stock is very difficult to keep up with, as shareholders can pass the certificates to someone else without notifying the company. If your share certificate is lost, accidentally destroyed, or stolen, you should immediately contact the transfer agent and request a "stop transfer." Whether someone is transferring a stock certificate on death or electronic shares on death, the tax implications are the same. Understanding Share Certificates When companies issue shares in the market, shareholders who buy in are issued a share certificate. The share certificate basically acts as a receipt for the purchase and ownership of shares in the company. The document certifies registered ownership of shares from a particular date. Key information on a share certificate includes: Certificate number Company name and registration number Shareholder name and address Number of shares owned Class of shares Issue date of shares Amount paid (or treated as paid) on the shares In the UK, The Companies Act 2006 directs that a company must issue a share certificate when any shares are allotted (issued). The company must issue a share certificate within two months of the issue or transfer of any shares. Companies may issue just one certificate for all the shares issued or transferred at a particular time, except if a shareholder requests separate certificates. Sometimes a shareholder with a stock certificate can give a proxy to another person to vote the shares in question. Similarly, a shareholder without a share certificate may give a proxy to another person to allow them to vote for the shares in question. Voting rights are defined by the corporation's charter and corporate law. A share certificate that is damaged, lost, or stolen can be reissued with a replacement certificate in respect of the same number of shares. The shareholder in such a case must return the damaged document to the company before a replacement can be issued. At this time, the shareholder may also exercise the right to be issued a single certificate or separate certificates. Historically, share certificates were required for proof of entitlement to dividends. Each time a certificate was presented, the receipt for the payment of dividends was endorsed on the back. This way, all records of dividend payments were attached to the document. In the digital age, investors rarely use physical share certificates and instead rely on electronic proof of ownership. Disadvantages of Issuing a Share Certificate There are several disadvantages of issuing a share certificate. From the company's perspective, the primary drawback comes down to time and money. Issuing paper stock certificates is labor-intensive and represents a big expense. In fact, businesses usually need an entire team dedicated strictly to managing the share certificate system. There is a tremendous amount of tedious clerical work involved in maintaining a stock certificate system. For example, all transactions, such as a merger or spinoff, can only proceed when the paper certificates are signed and mailed to the company. Also, compliance becomes much more difficult to address. Moreover, ownership is very difficult to keep up with, as shareholders can pass the certificates to someone else without notifying the company. It all adds up to a significant amount of back-office work to verify identities in order to sign off on the transfer of ownership. In other words, the company has to keep track of the shares at all times. This is typically done through a computer system. Finally, if a shareholder has their paper certificate lost or stolen, it means a lot of work for the company. Specifically, the business has to find the old shares, verify ownership, put a "stop" on the paper certificates, and then issue new paper certificates. Obviously, this process is also a headache for the shareholder. The bottom line is that documenting, tracking, and verifying transactions with paper stocks is very challenging. 1606 The Dutch East India Company issued the first stock certificate in 1606. It was worth 150 Dutch Guilder. Special Considerations Today, in modern financial markets, individual investors rarely take physical possession of their share certificates. In fact, some countries, such as Sweden, have completely abolished the issue of share certificates as proof of share ownership in a company and have streamlined the process of registering owners via electronic registration. In the United States, the Central Securities Depository (CSD) is responsible for electronically holding shares, either in certificated or uncertificated (dematerialized) form, so that ownership can be easily transferred through a book entry rather than the transfer of physical certificates. A share certificate can be in either a registered form or bearer form. A registered share certificate is only evidence of title ownership, while a bearer share certificate, now uncommon, entitles the holder to exercise all legal rights associated with the stock. Many share certificates, especially older and rarer specimens, have become extremely collectible for their historical context and the beauty and intricacy of their design. "Scripophily" is the collection and study of share certificates and other similar financial documents. Similar to stamp collecting or banknote collecting, a share certificate's value is dependent on its condition and age. What Are Share Certificates FAQs What Are My Old Share Certificates Worth? Never just throw away your old share certificates. They can still be worth something. Here are a few steps you can do to help determine their value: Contact your stockbroker to look up the share certificate's CUSIP number Figure out whether the company is still publicly traded Call the share certificate's transfer agent (the agent should be listed on the certificate) Use a paid service to research your stock's history What Do I Do If I Lost My Original Share Certificate? Even without the physical share certificate, you are still the rightful owner of the stock and have a claim to all of the rights of being a shareholder. If your share certificate is lost, accidentally destroyed, or stolen, you should immediately contact the transfer agent and request a "stop transfer." This prevents ownership of the stock certificate from being transferred to another person. Your stockbroker might also be able to help you with this process. You will be able to get a new replacement certificate. But typically, companies will first require you to do the following: Make a statement of facts surrounding the loss in an affidavit Purchase an indemnity bond to protect the company against the chance that the lost certificate may be presented at a later date Request a new certificate before an innocent purchaser requires it If Stock Certificates Are Transferred on Death, What Is the Tax? Whether someone is transferring a stock certificate on death or electronic shares, the tax implications are the same. That is, you are not liable for taxes on the shares you inherit when someone dies. But you might be liable for the taxes if you sell them. English has many words which are homophones or near homophones, that is, words and phrases which are pronounced alike but do not mean the same thing and are spelled differently. Its easy to mix up homophones in your writing. These substitutions are one of the most common mistakes even experienced writers can make. Alreadyand all readysound the same when spoken out loud, but they are not interchangeable. Continue reading to find out whether you mean alreadyor all ready, and why. What is the Difference Between Already and All Ready? In this article, I will compare alreadyvs. all ready. I will use each in a sentence, so you can see each in its proper context. Plus, at the end of the post, I will show you a helpful trick to use when you cant decide whether to use already or all ready in your own writing. When to Use Already What does already mean? Alreadyfunctions as an adverb and is defined as by now or a specified time.See the following sentences for examples. George, Paul, John, and Ringo already boarded the plane. I already told you to stop tapping your fingers on the table. Even though the couple was having a nice evening, it was already time to go home. Many writers mistakenly substitute alreadyfor all ready, and vice versa. As you can see, these terms are not freely interchangeable, and each should be reserved for the context in which it best fits. When to Use All Ready What does all ready mean? All readyis a phrasal adjective that means collectively prepared. If you had a group of six members who wanted to go skydiving, and each member had taken all the steps required to go skydiving, you could say that the team was all ready. Here are more examples. George, Paul, John, and Ringo are all ready to board the plane. The teacher asked his students, are we all ready to take the test? Cubs fans are all ready to watch their team dominate in the playoffs. Trick to Remember the Difference Here is a helpful trick to remember all readyvs. already. All readydescribes a group of people or objects, the entirety of which is prepared to take an action. Alreadydescribes a point in the past at which an event happened. You can remember that all readyrefers to a group since the word allalso refers to the entirety of a group. By looking at the meanings of the individual words that make up this phrase, you can remember that all readyrefers to a group of people or objects. All readyis also a synonym for the phrase totally ready, which just so happens to contain the word all. This is an easy mnemonic. All ready = Totally ready. If you are referring to an event that happened in the past, be sure to use alreadyinstead. Summary Is it already or all ready?Alreadyand all readyare terms that describe an event in the past and a group of people or items, respectively. They cannot be substituted for each other without committing an easily recognizable error. Already means before now or by now or the time in question. All ready means ready to go; all set. You can remember that all readyrefers to a group of people by looking at the meanings of the individuals words that make up this phrase. Allalso refers to the entirety of a group or quantity. If you still need help, you can check this article again for a refresher. An Indiana man at the center of investigations into suspicious bets on an Alabama baseball game this chumba casino downloadspring has been banned from the states casinos and sportsbooks, a gaming commission official confirmed to ESPN on Friday. The Indiana Gaming Commission added Bert Neff of Mooresville to its involuntary exclusion list, which permanently bars him from entering any casino or placing bets with a sportsbook in the state. Jenny Reske, deputy director at the Indiana Gaming Commission, told ESPN that Neff was added to the exclusion list after a review of his alleged actions on April 28. Neff allegedly entered the sportsbook at the Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati and asked to make a conspicuously large bet on LSU to beat Alabama in an SEC baseball game that night in Baton Rouge. Gambling has become a popular pastime for many across the world. Thedave cokin free play sportsbet a United States has more than 1500 land-based casinos, with many Americans trying out gambling. Apart from the federal gambling laws, each state has laws concerning retail and online wagering. The rise in popularity can be attributed to a change in most states that has led to the easing of restrictions and even the legalization of gambling in some states. Mobile betting has generated billions in revenue since its introduction. Here are the states with the most gamblers: 1.Nevada Nevada is home to the city of Las Vegas, which is often considered the world's gambling capital. Las Vegas is well known for its grand and luxurious casinos and exciting nightlife that attracts visitors worldwide. Nevada has a long history of land-based casinos and bookmarkers operating legally. As a result, the online gambling industry has flourished in the state, with millions visiting online gambling sites annually. It became one of the first states to legalize online gambling in the United States of America. Strict regulations are enforced due to the wide variety of online gambling options available. Nevada's online and recreational gambling industry is regulated by the Nevada Gaming Commission and State Gaming Control Board. The organizations are responsible for creating and enforcing gambling guidelines for citizens of Nevada and visitors. 2.Texas Due to the restrictive gambling laws in Texas, many Texas gamblers play at offshore online casinos, sports books, and poker rooms. You can take advantage of these sites provided you have a strong internet connection, and a way to deposit and withdraw your winnings. In case youre wondering, Texans who wager at offshore online casinos have not been prosecuted. Thats because the states laws about iGaming are murky at best. That said, take your time to research your online casino Texas to find one with a good reputation, a wide variety of games and generous bonuses. 3.West Virginia Recent casino law changes have eased restrictions on gambling in West Virginia and made it one of the first states to legalize online sports betting. Legalizing gambling activities has led to the growth of the gambling industry. Gamblers in West Virginia who prefer online sports betting have various options, such as mobile apps and websites. The West Virginia Lottery Commission was established to regulate gambling activities in the state and oversees online gambling sites. Some popular legal online gambling options in West Virginia include online casinos, DSF sites, esports betting, and sweepstake casinos. There is a minimum age requirement of 21 years for individuals to participate in lotteries and casino gambling. Gambling companies can also not facilitate betting in high school sporting events. 4.New Jersey In November 2013, New Jersey launched legal state-run online casinos. Bettors can log onto websites run by casinos and gamble from the comfort of their homes. Online gambling has been key to the growth of casino revenue as New Jersey casinos consistently make heavy losses. With a population of over 10 million, there is a massive market for online gambling in New Jersey, with the market flourishing. A long list of legal online casinos has led to high competition and growth in the online gambling industry. New Jersey is also home to Atlantic City, a popular gambling destination for many in the country. New Jersey has a long history of using lottery proceeds to improve the public school system. The state has more online gambling options than any other state. Online gambling is illegal for players under 21 years of age as the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement regulates the industry. 5.Michigan Although Michigan legalized online gambling later than other states, it has quickly caught up to the rest of the online casino community. The Great Lakes State has dramatically improved the online casino gambling industry. There are a lot of online casino websites and apps for gamblers to enjoy playing their favorite games. Michigan has collected millions of dollars in revenue from gambling sites, which is expected to rise in the future. It is crucial to remember summer affects sports betting in Michigan as there are lesser sports for gamblers to place wagers. The variety of online gambling options has dramatically influenced the attraction of more players. Gamblers can easily find their favorite titles or try out newer ones. The Michigan Gaming Control Board is in charge of regulating the online gambling market. 6.Connecticut The state launched the online casino industry in Connecticut by introducing two online casino options. As most of the traditional land-based casinos are owned by the native tribes, the tribes have had to partner with large gambling companies to provide online casino options for players. Online casinos attract thousands of players daily. There are a wide variety of games available for Connecticut residents to play and stand the chance of winning big. Popular table games such as blackjack and roulette can also be played through internet connected devices such as mobile phones and computers attracting fans. 7.Delaware Delaware was one of the first states to legalize online casinos in 2012, although the first sites were established and launched a few months later. It is now easy for players to find online casinos to enjoy their favorite games. Players can log into casino websites and gamble from the comfort of their homes instead of having to visit a traditional land-based casino. With millions of dollars generated in revenue monthly, the number of online gamblers in Delaware is rising. Players can enjoy online lotteries and online poker, where they can compete with other players from Nevada and New Jersey. The Delaware Lottery is the state organization regulating gambling in the state. 8.Pennsylvania Pennsylvania legalized online gambling in 2019 by introducing two online casino options for players. Despite the online gambling industry being relatively newer than in other states, players can now enjoy increased online gambling options. There are several gambling sites and apps for players in Pennsylvania. Online casino revenue has increased as more online gaming companies establish operations in the state. Numerous legal online poker sites offer great gambling experiences for visitors. Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board regulates the online casinos in Pennsylvania. Category: Casino Blog What Is Anchoring?best apps for betting on sports Anchoring is a heuristic in behavioral finance that describes the subconscious use of irrelevant information, such as the purchase price of a security, as a fixed reference point (or anchor) for making subsequent decisions about that security. Thus, people are more likely to estimate the value of the same item higher if the suggested sticker price is $100 than if it is $50. In sales, price, and wage negotiations, anchoring can be a powerful tool. Studies have shown that setting an anchor at the outset of a negotiation can have more effect on the final outcome than the intervening negotiation process. Setting a starting point that is deliberately too high can affect the range of all subsequent counteroffers. Key Takeaways Anchoring is a behavioral finance term to describe an irrational bias towards an arbitrary benchmark figure. This benchmark then skews decision-making regarding a security by market participants, such as when to sell the investment. Anchoring can be used to advantage in sales and price negotiations where setting an initial anchor can influence subsequent negotiations in your favor. Understanding Anchoring Anchoring is a cognitive bias in which the use of an arbitrary benchmark such as a purchase price or sticker price carries a disproportionately high weight in one's decision-making process. The concept is part of the field of behavioral finance, which studies how emotions and other extraneous factors influence economic choices. In the context of investing, one consequence of anchoring is that market participants with an anchoring bias tend to hold investments that have lost value because they have anchored their fair value estimate to the original price rather than to fundamentals. As a result, market participants assume greater risk by holding the investment in the hope the security will return to its purchase price. Market participants are often aware that their anchor is imperfect and attempt to make adjustments to reflect subsequent information and analysis. However, these adjustments often produce outcomes that reflect the bias of the original anchors. Anchoring is often paired with a heuristic known as adjusting,whereby the reference level or anchor is adjusted as conditions change and prices are re-evaluated. Anchoring Bias An anchoring bias can cause a financial market participant, such as a financial analyst or investor, to make an incorrect financial decision, such as buying an overvalued investment or selling an undervalued investment. Anchoring bias can be present anywhere in the financial decision-making process, from key forecast inputs, such as sales volumes and commodity prices, to final output like cash flow and security prices. Historical values, such as acquisition prices or high-water marks, are common anchors. This holds for values necessary to accomplish a certain objective, such as achieving a target return or generating a particular amount of net proceeds. These values are unrelated to market pricing and cause market participants to reject rational decisions. Anchoring can be present with relative metrics, such as valuation multiples. Market participants using a rule-of-thumb valuation multiple to evaluate securities prices demonstrate anchoring when they ignore evidence that one security has a greater potential for earnings growth. Some anchors, such as absolute historical values and values necessary to accomplish an objective, can be harmful to investment objectives, and many analysts encourage investors to reject these types of anchors. Other anchors can be helpful as market participants deal with the complexity and uncertainty inherent in an environment of information overload. Market participants can counter anchoring bias by identifying the factors behind the anchor and replacing suppositions with quantifiable data. Comprehensive research and assessment of factors affecting markets or a security's price are necessary to eliminate anchoring bias from decision-making in the investment process. Examples of Anchoring Bias It is easy to find examples of anchoring bias in everyday life. Customers for a product or service are typically anchored to a sales price based on the price marked by a shop or suggested by a salesperson. Any further negotiation for the product is in relation to that figure, regardless of its actual cost. Within the investing world, anchoring bias can take on several forms. For instance, traders are typically anchored to the price at which they bought a security. If a trader bought stock ABC for $100, then they will be psychologically fixated on that price for judging when to sell or make additional purchases of the same stock -- regardless of ABC's actual value based on an assessment of relevant factors or fundamentals affecting it. In another case, analysts may become anchored to the value of a given index at a certain level instead of considering historical figures. For example, if the S&P 500 is on a bull run and has a value of 3,000, then analysts' propensity will be to predict values closer to that figure rather than considering the standard deviation of values, which have a fairly wide range for that index. Anchoring also appears frequently in sales negotiations. A salesman can offer a very high price to start negotiations that is objectively well above fair value. Yet, because the high price is an anchor, the final selling price will also tend to be higher than if the salesman had offered a fair or low price to start. A similar technique may be applied in hiring negotiations when a hiring manager or prospective hire proposes an initial salary. Either party may then push the discussion to that starting point, hoping to reach an agreeable amount that was derived from the anchor. How Do You Avoid Anchoring Bias? Studies have shown that some factors can mitigate anchoring, but it is difficult to avoid altogether, even when people are made aware of the bias and deliberately try to avoid it. In experimental studies, telling people about anchoring and advising them to "consider the opposite" can reduce, but not eliminate, the effect of anchoring. How Can I Use Anchoring to My Advantage? If you are selling something or negotiating a salary, you can start with a higher price than you expect to get as it will set an anchor that will tend to pull the final price up. If you are buying something or a hiring manager, you would instead start with a lowball level to induce the anchoring effect lower. What Is Anchoring and Adjustment? The anchoring and adjustment heuristic describes cases in which an anchor is subsequently adjusted based on new information until an acceptable value is reached over time. Often, those adjustments, however, prove inadequate and remain too close to the original anchor, which is a problem when the anchor is very different from the true or fair value. CorrectionJuly 21, 2022: This article was updated to make clear a risk of anchoring resulting in buying overvalued assets or selling undervalued ones, not buying undervalued assets and selling overvalued ones. A three-month exhibition of luxury brand Louis best place to buy a auuleleVuitton, which opened Monday at the National Museum of China is proving controversial, as no trade mark had been displayed in the property before. The exhibition occupies four rooms in the museum located in the heart of Beijing, just reopened after renovations. Each room is equipped with large mirrors and special lighting to create a dazzling effect, according to Chinanews.com. Handbags, luggage and other products displayed are protected by security guards, as cultural relics, and visitors are not allowed to touch them. This is ridiculous. The country has a long history and such a cultural heritage to explore, but let us now take a purely commercial brand exposure, fumed Zhang Tinghao, former director of the Institute for Research on Chinese cultural heritage. As a public service institution, the museum should take the responsibility to guide and educate its visitors, he said. On the microblogging site weibo.com, many users expressed their anger. Much may deem inappropriate for luxury brands in an environment of cultural treasures, and called the museum to behave with dignity, beyond the profit motive trademarks. Some noted that they would prefer the National Museum works with other museums around the world to broaden their horizons. Chen Lusheng, deputy director of the museum, assured that he understood the reactions to the exhibition Louis Vuitton, as this was the first time that the institution organizing an event of this type. But compared with the Louis Vuitton brand founded 157 years ago, our museum (whose centenary is to celebrate) is still young, he replied. He added that the museum had adopted strict selection criteria for a brand to gain exposure, emphasizing the historical and artistic value. Mr. Chen said that Louis Vuitton has signed numerous original creations that have marked the history of travel and represented the art and emotions. He hoped that the museums activities are used to illuminate the cultural and creative industries in China. An official of Louis Vuitton said that although the brand has paid high fees for exhibition, he felt that the activity was worth. The exact amount was not disclosed. Exhibition of Louis Vuitton at National Museum Raises Angeradded by chinatimesonline on View all posts by chinatimesonline The focus here was on how fast oil would come out of the Canadian fields. Pulling oil from the tar sands is costly, even more so when you tack transportation costs on top. The State Department found that with high oil prices, the tar sands would be mined for oil, pipeline or no. On top of oil, the United States produces significantly more natural gas than Saudi Arabia. Fact-Checking the Sunday Shows: Jan. 4|PunditFact.com|January 5, 2015|DAILY BEAST In pursuing his alchemical researches, he discovered Prussian blue, and the animal oil which bears his name. The Every Day Book of History and Chronology|Joel Munsell Movement to know that she was attired in appropriate costumeshort frock, biped continuations and a mannish oil-skin hat. Glances at Europe|Horace Greeley A very small amount may be present after ingestion of large quantities of cod-liver oil or other fats. A Manual of Clinical Diagnosis|James Campbell Todd Go carefully over the film with an oil-immersion lens, using a mechanical stage if available. A Manual of Clinical Diagnosis|James Campbell Todd What Is TreasuryDirect?prince floki coin market cap TreasuryDirect is the online platform through which investors can purchase federal government securities directly from the U.S. Treasury. Key Takeaways TreasuryDirect is the online platform through which investors can purchase federal government securities directly from the U.S. Treasury. New issues of U.S. Treasury bills, notes, bonds, savings bonds, and TIPS are all available from TreasuryDirect. TreasuryDirect saves investors from paying commissions and fees, by eliminating middlemen such as brokers and banks. To open a TreasuryDirect account, investors must have a Social Security number or EIN, a U.S. address, and a checking or savings account. Understanding TreasuryDirect TreasuryDirect sells Treasury bills, notes, bonds, Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS), and savings bonds, all of which are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government and are used to finance the federal debt. The TreasuryDirect website is the main portal through which the U.S. Treasury sells its securities. In effect, TreasuryDirect is the only way investors can purchase and redeem Treasury securities directly from the government in paperless electronic form. Through the website, money can be deposited from and withdrawn to personal bank accounts, and repurchase of securities can be rolled over as currently held securities mature. The types of Treasury securities available through TreasuryDirect include: Treasury bills Treasury notes Treasury bonds Series I savings bonds Series EE savings bonds Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) The TreasuryDirect trading system eliminates banks, brokers, and dealers as middlemen, saving investors money on commissions and fees. $100 The minimum required investment in the TreasuryDirect market Treasury securities are sold through an auction process, which establishes a securitys rate and yield. Investors can place either competitive or non-competitive bids. Competitive bidders specify the rate, yield, or discount margin that they will accept; non-competitive bidders agree to accept the rate, yield, or discount margin that the auction establishes. At the auctions close, the Treasury first issues securities to all non-competitive bidders, then to competitive bidders from lowest to the highest bid, until it has issued the total amount of securities provided for by that auction. All accepted bidders receive the terms of the highest accepted offer. The minimum required investment in the TreasuryDirect market is $100. How to Open a TreasuryDirect Account To open a TreasuryDirect account, investors must have a Social Security number or Employer Identification Number (EIN), a U.S. address, a checking or savings account for transferring funds to and from a TreasuryDirect account, an email address, and a secure web browser and internet connection. Individuals, institutions, corporations, partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), sole proprietors, estates, and trusts can also establish TreasuryDirect accounts. You can request the IRS or your state tax department to deposit your tax refund straight into your TreasuryDirect account and use the funds to purchase securities. Of course, investors can still purchase Treasury securities through traditional channels, like brokerages or banks, even if they set up a TreasuryDirect account; however, financial professionals cannot buy securities for clients through the system. Special Considerations for Treasury Direct Only new issues can be bought through TreasuryDirect. Treasury securities typically follow a schedule to release these new issues, also known as on-the-run Treasuries. Treasuries issued before the most recently issued bond or note of a particular maturity are referred to as off-the-run Treasuries as they are taken off TreasuryDirect. For example, the 52-week bill is auctioned every four weeks, at which time the previously existing 52-week bills will only be available for trading in the secondary market. What Is Risk-On Risk-Off?32red casino offer bet365 all link Risk-on risk-off is an investment setting in which price behavior responds to and is driven by changes in investor risk tolerance. Risk-on risk-off refers to changes in investment activity in response to global economic patterns. During periods when risk is perceived as low, the risk-on risk-off theory states that investors tend to engage in higher-risk investments. When risk is perceived to be high, investors have the tendency to gravitate toward lower-risk investments. Understanding Risk-On Risk-Off Investors' appetites for risk rise and fall over time. At times, investors are more likely to invest in higher-risk instruments than during other periods, such as during the 2009 economic recovery period. The 2008 financial crisis was considered a risk-off year, when investors attempted to reduce risk by selling existing risky positions and moving money to either cash positions or low/no-risk positions, such as U.S. Treasury bonds. Not all asset classes carry the same risk. Investors tend to change asset classes depending on the perceived risk in the markets. For instance, stocks are generally considered to be riskier assets than bonds. Therefore, a market where stocks are outperforming bonds is said to be a risk-on environment. When stocks are selling off and investors run for shelter to bonds or gold, the environment is said to be risk-off. Investors invest in a risk on environment when they put their money into riskier assets. Risk Sentiment While asset prices ultimately detail the risk sentiment of the market, investors can often find signs of changing sentiment through corporate earnings, macroeconomic data, global central bank action and statements, and other factors. Risk-on environments are often carried by a combination of expanding corporate earnings, optimistic economic outlook, accommodative central bank policies, and speculation. We can also assume that an increase in the stock market is a sign that risk is on. As investors feel the market is being supported by strong influential fundamentals, they perceive less risk about the market and its outlook. Conversely, risk-off environments can be caused by widespread corporate earnings downgrades, contracting or slowing economic data, uncertain central bank policy, a rush to safe investments, and other factors. Just like the stock market rises relating to a risk on environment, a drop in the stock market equals a risk off environment. That's because investors want to avoid risk and are averse to it. Key Takeaways Risk-on risk-off is an investment paradigm under which asset prices are dictated by changes in investors' risk tolerance. In risk-on situations, investors have a high risk appetite and bid up the prices of assets in the market. In risk-off situations, investors become more risk-averse and sell assets, sending their prices lower. Returns and Risk-On Risk-Off As the perceived risk rises in the markets, investors jump from risky assets and pile into high-grade bonds, U.S. Treasury bonds, gold, cash, and other safe havens. While returns on these assets are not expected to be excessive, they provide downside protection to portfolios during times of distress. When risks subside in the market, low-return assets and safe havens are dumped for high-yielding bonds, stocks, commodities, and other assets that carry elevated risk. As overall market risks stay low, investors are more willing to take on portfolio risk for the chance of higher returns. Throughout human history, observation of celestial bodies has been used for navigation, the recording of seasons, and many other useful purposes. Today, people differentiate between astronomy and astrology. One is a natural science, but the other is a pseudoscience, based more on superstition than the rigorous application of the scientific method. What is the Difference Between Astronomy and Astrology? In this article, I will compare astronomy vs. astrology. I will outline their definitions and use each in a sentence. I will also show you a helpful trick to use when deciding whether you mean astronomy or astrology, and why. When to Use Astronomy What does astronomy mean? Astronomyis the study of phenomena that occur outside the Earths atmosphere. This broad field encompasses objects like stars, comets, planets, and nebulae, as well as processes like orbits, supernovae, and cosmic radiation. Here are some examples. I took an astronomy course in college, but it met during the day and we never went outside. People have been practicing astronomy for several thousand years. Astronomy is a natural science. As it happens, Mr. Graham-Smith was one of the pioneers of radio astronomy, who opened up the new investigation of the sky in the 1940s using radar technology developed during World War II. The Wall Street Journal When to Use Astrology What does astrology mean? Astrologyis the study of the movements of various celestial bodies as observed from the surface of the Earth, and the interpretation of the effects these movements have on a persons life.Astrology is closer to an art form than a science, and closer still to a religion. Like astronomy, astrology is a broad, multifaceted field. Astrology involves predicting the future based on the positions of celestial bodies relative to one another and organized into various groupings of zodiac signs. These zodiac signs are then used to predict a persons personality traits and the events that will eventually shape his or her life. It is interesting to note that human perceptions of celestial movement are all made from the same spot in the universe. Should humans ever take up residence in on a different planet in a different part of the universe, those people would observe celestial movements from a different vantage point, and would thus perceive these movements differently. See below for examples of astrologyused in sentences. Many newspapers have sections devoted to astrology. I didnt believe in astrology until I experienced my first Saturn return. Astrology is a pseudoscience, and has been cast out of the ranks of respectable academic specialties. Mercury has entered retrograde pretty neat for sky-watchers but terrible for everyone else. At least thats what astrology will tell you. The Washington Post Trick to Remember the Difference Here is a helpful trick to remember astronomyvs. astrologyin your writing. Astronomy is a natural science concerned with the study of phenomena that occur outside the Earths atmosphere. Astrology is a pseudoscience that uses observations of celestial movement to predict a persons personality and future. You can remember the difference between these terms by noticing that astrologyshares its last two syllables with other pseudosciences, like iridology and reflexology. By grouping these practices together in the pseudoscience category, you can remember the difference between astrologyand astronomy. Summary Is it astronomy or astrology? Astronomyand astrologyare both characterized by the study of celestial objects and processes outside Earths atmosphere. Astronomy is a natural science. Astrology has come to be recognized as pseudoscience. You can remember that astrology is a pseudoscience since it shares the suffix -logy with the pseudosciences iridology and reflexology. If you cant remember the difference between these two pursuits, you can use this trick to remember whether you mean astrologyor astronomy. If all else fails, you could always refer back to this article for a quick refresher. What is bon appetit sayingan Accounting Information System (AIS)? An accounting information system (AIS) involves the collection, storage, and processing of financial and accounting data used by internal users to report information to investors, creditors, and tax authorities. It is generally a computer-based method for tracking accounting activity in conjunction with information technology resources. An AIS combines traditional accounting practices, such as the use of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), with modern information technology resources. How an Accounting Information Systems (AIS) is Used An accounting information system contains various elements important in the accounting cycle. Although the information contained in a system varies among industries and business sizes, a typical AIS includes data relating to revenue, expenses, customer information, employee information, and tax information. Specific data includes sales orders and analysis reports, purchase requisitions, invoices, check registers, inventory, payroll, ledger, trial balance, and financial statement information. An accounting information system must have a database structure to store information. This database structure is typically programmed with query language that allows for table and data manipulation. An AIS has numerous fields to input data as well as to edit previously stored data. In addition, accounting information systems are often highly secured platforms with preventative measures taken against viruses, hackers, and other external sources attempting to collect information. Cybersecurity is increasingly important as more and more companies store their data electronically. The various outputs of an accounting information system exemplify the versatility of its data manipulation capabilities. An AIS produces reports including accounts receivable aging reports based on customer information, depreciation schedules for fixed assets, and trial balances for financial reporting. Customer lists, taxation calculations, and inventory levels may also be reproduced. However, correspondences, memos, or presentations are not included in the AIS because these items are not directly related to a companys financial reporting or bookkeeping. Benefits of Accounting Information Systems Interdepartmental Interfacing An accounting information system strives to interface across multiple departments. Within the system, the sales department can upload the sales budget. This information is used by the inventory management team to conduct inventory counts and purchase materials. Upon the purchase of inventory, the system can notify the accounts payable department of the new invoice. An AIS can also share information about a new order so that the manufacturing, shipping, and customer service departments are aware of the sale. Internal Controls An integral part of accounting information systems relates to internal controls. Policies and procedures can be placed within the system to ensure that sensitive customer, vendor, and business information is maintained within a company. Through the use of physical access approvals, login requirements, access logs, authorizations, and segregation of duties, users can be limited to only the relevant information necessary to perform their business function. What Is the National Average Wage Index (NAWI)?other crypto games bodog odds nhl The National Average Wage Index (NAWI) is a measure of U.S. wage trends calculated annually by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The NAWI is dependent on income subject to federal income taxes and contributions to deferred compensation plans. The SSA primarily uses the National Average Wage Index to index retirement and insurance benefits in the United States. It is also used to update several factors in the operation of the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) program. Key Takeaways The National Average Wage Index (NAWI) tracks wage growth among American workers as a measure of inflation. The NAWI is computed by the Social Security Administration each year in order to make adjustments to Social Security benefits and contributions, which are pegged to inflation. For purposes of Social Security benefits and taxation, a person's wages are indexed to the NAWI the year they turn age 62. Understanding the National Average Wage Index (NAWI) The National Average Wage Index provides insight into the direction of wage trends and may alert policymakers to wage inflation, which might impact the Federal Reserves decision to raise interest rates. Raising interest rates typically has a negative effect on bond and equity markets and slows inflation. Alternately, if wage inflation is decreasing, the Federal Reserve may lower rates, which helps stimulate the economy and labor market. So-called wage push inflation is an overall rise in the cost of goods that results from a rise in wages. To maintain corporate profits after an increase in wages, employers must increase the prices they charge for the goods and services they provide. The overall increased cost of goods and services has a circular effect on the wage increase; eventually, as goods and services in the market overall increase, higher wages will be needed to compensate for the increased prices of consumer goods. Example of a National Average Wage Index Calculation The 2020 National Average Wage Index is calculated by multiplying the previous year's NAWI by the change in average wages for the previous two years (based on the SSAs average wage data). For example, the 2020 NAWI would be calculated by multiplying the 2019 NAWI by the change in the average wage from 2018 to 2019. The SSA website lists the NAWI levels between 1951 and the current year. $55,628,60 The national average wage index for 2020, 2.83% higher than it was in 2019. National Average Wage Index and Wage Indexing Wage indexing is used by Social Security to adjust an individuals earning history to inflation. An individual's wages are indexed to the NAWI the year they turn 62. The individual takes the NAWI for the year they turn 62 and divides it by the NAWI for the year they are indexing; they then multiply their included earnings by this number. For example, suppose an individual's 1990 earnings were $30,000. In 2020, the individual turned 62, and the NAWI for that year was $55,628,60. The 2020 NAWI is divided by the 1990 NAWI ($55,628,60 / $21,027.98) to give an index factor of 2.64. The individuals 1990 earnings are then multiplied by the profit factor, providing that years inflation-adjusted earnings of $79,200 = ($30,000 x 2.64). As wage indexing uses the NAWI, an individual cannot work out the exact amount of Social Security they are going to receive until they turn 62. They could estimate the NAWI by taking average wage inflation into account. Back in 2014, Stockton University purchased the shuttered Showboat casino with the aim of turning it into a college campus but everything went in the wrong direction when the casino next door Taj Mahal, strongly opposed the location of a student campus nearby. Stockton officials invested $18 million in acquiring the property but the complicated situation made them sign a contract with Glenn Straub. Instead of putting end to all rumors and speculations,Stockton officials were exposed to even more severe criticismand they had no choice but to answer communities questions about the troublesome deal. One of the questions was related to the employees who used to work at the Showboat and were added to the public payroll once the University became the owner of the property. It was announced that as many as 36 employees were included in the aforementioned payroll. Apart from that, Stockton University is threatened to face unexpected costs due to the reluctance of Taj Mahalto put up with the establishment of a college campus next door. New Jersey lawmakers also raised the question about the careful consideration of all aspects of the deal, which made Herman Saatkamp, the soon-to-resign President of Stockton University, to set a meeting with the Senate Budget Committee and answer their question related to the purchase of the former casino property. Senator Paul Sarlo, considered to be one of the opponents of the deal, said that he has always regarded the proposal as bizarreand the events that took place during the last three months came to support his standpoint. Mr. Saatkamp was also required to explain why he had proceeded with the deal regardless of the restriction imposed. The contract, signed between Stockton University and the former owner of the Showboat, Caesars Entertainment, says that the latter is to assist in solving any issues related to the deed restriction and the issues with Taj Mahal. As previously reported, the costs continue to increase and according to Mr. Saatkamps announcement, the monthly expenses for utilitiesis as much as $400,000 a month not to mention the staff salaries. Questions over the agreement with Glenn Straub about the purchase of the Showboat also arose and people with knowledge on the matter defined it as jeopardy. Meanwhile, people familiar with the ongoing affairs said that the hastily purchased property creates many questions. So does the sale to Straub who made comments regarded as humiliating by the students and the local communities. Sometimes, two words are so similar that even experienced writers have trouble remembering which is which. Distrust and mistrust are two such words. Their meanings are so similar that they are often substituted for one another. Careful writers, though, can make use of the shades of meaning between these two words to make their writing stronger and more precise. What is the Difference Between Mistrust and Distrust? In this post, I will compare mistrust vs. distrust. I will use each of these words in example sentences to demonstrate their proper use in context. I will also include a mnemonic device that is useful for choosing distrust or mistrustcorrectly. When to Use Distrust What does distrust mean? Distrust can be a noun or a verb. As a noun, distrustmeans the belief that someone or something is not reliable. Here are three examples, The distrust in the boardroom was palpable as the accountants lied about fudging the numbers. There is too much distrust between us for this relationship to work, said Viviennes unfaithful partner. A Pew Survey conducted last spring found that anger and distrust among Americans for opposite party members was at its highest level in nearly a quarter-century. The New York Times As a verb, distrust refers to the act of withholding faith or confidence. For example, I distrust this persons so-called expert opinion, said Marty. If you distrust me, then prove me wrong, challenged Edna. Distrust is a regular verb. It conjugates to distrusting as a present participle, and distrusted in the simple past tense. Distrust Conjugated: Distrust: first person present singular and plural, second person present singular and plural, third person present plural first person present singular and plural, second person present singular and plural, third person present plural Distrusts: third person present singular third person present singular Distrusted: simple past simple past Distrusting:Present participle The adjective form of this word is distrustful. As an adjective, it can be used to modify nouns. When to Use Mistrust What does mistrust mean? Mistrust is a word that means largely the same thing as distrustas both a noun and a verb, but it has slightly different connotations (see below). As a verb, mistrustis conjugated similarly to distrust, since it is also a regular verb. Here is an example of mistrust being used as a noun, It has sown mistrust among career employees at State, who swap paranoid stories about Tillerson that often turn out to be untrue. The Washington Post Additionally, both mistrust and distrust take the preposition of. Is There Any Difference Between These Words? The difference between mistrust and distrust comes down to nuances in meaning. Distrust is a withholding of trust based on evidence or informed opinion. Many people distrust salespeople working on commission, for instance, knowing that these salespeople personally benefit from their purchases. This distrust stems from knowledge about the motivations of other people. Additionally, some people distrust doctors because they make suggestions on tests and scans to be performed from which they personally benefit. On the other hand, many people mistrust strangers who approach them in public because it makes them uncomfortable. This withholding of trust is based on a feeling of unease, rather than an informed opinion. In other words, Use distrust if the lack of faith is for a good reason. Use mistrust for a lack of faith that is based on discomfort or unease. Since distrust and disbelieve are synonyms that start the same way, you can use the prefix dis as a reminder of this words meaning. Summary Is it mistrust or distrust? Mistrust and distrust are related words that refer to a lack of trust as both nouns and verbs. Mistrust refers to a lack of trust that is instinctual or based on a feeling of uneasiness. Distrust is based on evidence or informed opinion. If you ever find yourself confused between mistrustvs. distrustin the future, you can use this article as a refresher. What Is an American Depositary Receipt (ADR)?nft steam dungeons casino 888 live The term American depositary receipt (ADR) refers to a negotiable certificate issued by a U.S. depositary bank representing a specified number of sharesusually one shareof a foreign company's stock. The ADR trades on U.S. stock markets as any domestic shares would. ADRs offer U.S. investors a way to purchase stock in overseas companies that would not otherwise be available. Foreign firms also benefit, as ADRs enable them to attract American investors and capital without the hassle and expense of listing on U.S. stock exchanges. Key Takeaways An American depositary receipt is a certificate issued by a U.S. bank that represents shares in foreign stock. These certificates trade on American stock exchanges. ADRs and their dividends are priced in U.S. dollars. ADRs represent an easy, liquid way for U.S. investors to own foreign stocks. These investments may open investors up to double taxation and there are a limited number of options available. Introduction To American Depository Receipts ADRs How American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) Work 1:57 American depositary receipts are denominated in U.S. dollars. The underlying security is held by a U.S. financial institution, often by an overseas branch. ADR holders do not have to transact the trade in the foreign currency or worry about exchanging currency on the forex market. These securities are priced and traded in dollars and cleared through U.S. settlement systems. In order to begin offering ADRs, a U.S. bank must purchase shares on a foreign exchange. The bank holds the stock as inventory and issues an ADR for domestic trading. ADRs list on either the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) or the Nasdaq, but they are also sold over-the-counter (OTC). U.S. banks require that foreign companies provide them with detailed financial information. This requirement makes it easier for American investors to assess a company's financial health. Types of American Depositary Receipts American depositary receipts come in two basic categories: Sponsored ADRs A bank issues a sponsored ADR on behalf of the foreign company. The bank and the business enter into a legal arrangement. The foreign company usually pays the costs of issuing an ADR and retains control over it, while the bank handles the transactions with investors. Sponsored ADRs are categorized by what degree the foreign company complies with Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regulations and American accounting procedures. Unsponsored ADRs A bank also issues an unsponsored ADR. However, this certificate has no direct involvement, participation, or even permission from the foreign company. Theoretically, there could be several unsponsored ADRs for the same foreign company, issued by different U.S. banks. These different offerings may also offer varying dividends. With sponsored programs, there is only one ADR, issued by the bank working with the foreign company. One primary difference between the two types of ADRs is where they trade. All except the lowest level of sponsored ADRs register with the SEC and trade on major U.S. stock exchanges. Unsponsored ADRs will trade only over the counter. Unsponsored ADRs never include voting rights. 2,000+ The number of ADRs available, which represent companies from more than 70 different countries. ADR Levels ADRs are additionally categorized into three levels, depending on the extent to which the foreign company has accessed the U.S. markets. Level I This is the most basic type of ADR where foreign companies either don't qualify or don't want to have their ADR listed on an exchange. This type of ADR can be used to establish a trading presence but not to raise capital. Level I ADRs found only on the over-the-counter market have the loosest requirements from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and they are typically highly speculative. While they are riskier for investors than other types of ADRs, they are an easy and inexpensive way for a foreign company to gauge the level of U.S. investor interest in its securities. Level II As with Level I ADRs, Level II ADRs can be used to establish a trading presence on a stock exchange, and they cant be used to raise capital. Level II ADRs have slightly more requirements from the SEC than do Level I ADRs, but they get higher visibility and trading volume. Level III Level III ADRs are the most prestigious. With these, an issuer floats a public offering of ADRs on a U.S. exchange. They can be used to establish a substantial trading presence in the U.S. financial markets and raise capital for the foreign issuer. Issuers are subject to full reporting with the SEC. American Depositary Receipt Pricing and Costs An ADR may represent the underlying shares on a one-for-one basis, a fraction of a share, or multiple shares of the underlying company. The depositary bank will set the ratio of U.S. ADRs per home-country share at a value that they feel will appeal to investors. If an ADRs value is too high, it may deter some investors. Conversely, if it is too low, investors may think the underlying securities resemble riskier penny stocks. Because of arbitrage, an ADR's price closely tracks that of the company's stock on its home exchange. Remember that arbitrage is buying and selling the same asset at the same time in different markets. This allows traders to profit from any differences in the asset's listed price. ADR Fees Investing in an ADR may incur additional fees that are not charged for domestic stocks. The depositary bank that holds the underlying stock may charge a fee, known as a custody fee, to cover the cost of creating and issuing an ADR. This fee will be outlined in the ADR prospectus, and typically ranges from one to three cents per share. The fee will be either deducted from dividends, or passed on to the investor's brokerage firm. ADRs and Taxes Holders of ADRs realize any dividends and capital gains in U.S. dollars. However, dividend payments are net of currency conversion expenses and foreign taxes. Usually, the bank automatically withholds the necessary amount to cover expenses and foreign taxes. Since this is the practice, American investors would need to seek a credit from the IRS or a refund from the foreign government's taxing authority to avoid double taxation on any capital gains realized. Those interested in learning more about ADRs and other financial topics may want to consider enrolling in one of the best investing courses currently available. Advantages and Disadvantages of American Depositary Receipts As with any investment, there are distinct advantages and disadvantages of investing in ADRs. We've listed some of the main ones below. Advantages As noted above, ADRs are just like stocks. This means they trade on a stock exchange or over the counter, making them fairly easy to access and trade. Investors can also easily track their performance by reviewing market data. Purchasing ADRs is easy because they're available directly through American brokers. This eliminates the need to go through foreign channels to buy stock in a company in which you may be interested. And since they're available domestically, shares are denominated in U.S. dollars, which means you avoid any direct risks associated with fluctuations in currency rates. One of the most obvious benefits of investing in ADRs is that they provide investors with a way to diversify their portfolios. Investing in international securities allows you to open your investment portfolio up to greater rewards (along with the risks). Disadvantages The main problems associated with ADRs are that they may involve double taxationlocally and abroadand how many companies are listed. Unlike domestic companies, there are a limited number of foreign entities whose ADRs are listed for the public to trade. As noted above, some ADRs may not comply with SEC regulations. These are called unsponsored ADRs, which have no direct involvement by the company. In fact, some companies may not even provide permission to list their shares this way. Although investors can avoid any of the direct risks that come with currency exchange, they may incur currency conversion fees when they invest in ADRs. These fees are established in order to directly link the foreign security and the one traded on the domestic market. Easy to track and trade Available through U.S. brokers Denominated in dollars Offer portfolio diversification Could face double taxation Limited selection of companies Unsponsored ADRs may not be SEC-compliant Investor's may incur currency conversion fees History of American Depositary Receipts ProsCons Before American depositary receipts were introduced in the 1920s, American investors who wanted shares of a non-U.S. listed company could only do so on international exchangesan unrealistic option for the average person back then. While easier in the contemporary digital age, there are still drawbacks to purchasing shares on international exchanges. One particularly daunting roadblock is currency exchange issues. Another important drawback is the regulatory differences between U.S. and foreign exchanges. Before investing in an internationally traded company, U.S. investors have to familiarize themselves with the different financial authority's regulations, or they could risk misunderstanding important information, such as the company's financials. They might also need to set up a foreign account, as not all domestic brokers can trade internationally. ADRs were developed because of the complexities involved in buying shares in foreign countries and the difficulties associated with trading at different prices and currency values. J.P. Morgans (JPM) predecessor firm Guaranty Trust pioneered the ADR concept. In 1927, it created and launched the first ADR, enabling U.S. investors to buy shares of famous British retailer Selfridges and helping the luxury depart store tap into global markets. The ADR was listed on the New York Curb Exchange. A few years later, in 1931, the bank introduced the first sponsored ADR for British music company Electrical & Musical Industries (also known as EMI), the eventual home of the Beatles. Today, J.P. Morgan and BNY Mellon, another U.S. bank, continue to be actively involved in the ADR markets. Real-World Example of ADRs Between 1988 and 2018, German car manufacturer Volkswagen AG traded OTC in the U.S. as a sponsored ADR under the ticker VLKAY. In August 2018, Volkswagen terminated its ADR program. The next day, J.P. Morgan established an unsponsored ADR for Volkswagen, now trading under the ticker VWAGY. Investors who held the old VLKAY ADRs had the option of cashing out, exchanging the ADRs for actual shares of Volkswagen stocktrading on German exchangesor exchanging them for the new VWAGY ADRs. If I Own an ADR, Is It the Same As Owning Shares in the Company? Not exactly. ADRs are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates that trade on American stock exchanges and track the price of a foreign company's domestic shares. ADRs represent the prices of those shares, but do not actually grant you ownership rights as common stock typically does. Some ADRs pay dividends and may be issued at various ratios. The most common ratio is 1:1 where each ADR represents one common share of the company. If an ADR is listed on an exchange, you can buy and sell it through your broker like any other share. Because of this, and since they are priced in U.S. dollars, ADRs allow American investors a way to diversify their portfolios geographically without having to open overseas accounts or dealing with foreign currency exchange and taxes. Why Do Foreign Companies List ADRs? Foreign companies often seek to have their shares traded on U.S. exchanges through ADRs in order to obtain greater visibility in the international market, access to a larger pool of investors, and coverage by more equity analysts. Companies that issue ADRs may also find it easier to raise money in international markets when their ADRs are listed in U.S. markets. What Is a Sponsored vs. an Unsponsored ADR? All ADRs are required to have a U.S. investment bank act as their depositary bank. The depositary bank is the institution that issues ADRs, maintains a record of the holders of ADRs, registers the trades carried out, and distributes the dividends or interest on shareholders' equity payments in dollars to ADR holders. In a sponsored ADR, the depositary bank works with the foreign company and their custodian bank in their home country to register and issue the ADRs. An unsponsored ADR is instead issued by a depositary bank without the involvement, participation, or even the consent of the foreign company it represents ownership in. Unsponsored ADRs are normally issued by broker-dealers that own common stock in a foreign company and trade over-the-counter. Sponsored ADRs are more commonly found on exchanges. What Is the Difference Between an ADR and a GDR? ADRs provide a listing to foreign shares in one market. U.S. Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs), on the other hand, give access to two or more markets (most frequently the U.S. and Euro markets) with one fungible security. GDRs are most commonly used when the issuer raises capital in the local market as well as in the international and U.S. markets. This can be done either through private placement or public offerings. Is an ADR the Same As an American Depositary Share (ADS)? American depositary shares (ADSs) are the actual underlying shares that the ADR represents. In other words, the ADS is the actual share available for trading, while the ADR represents the entire bundle of ADSs issued. The Bottom Line American Depositary Receipts, or ADRs, allow Americans to invest in foreign companies. Although these companies do not ordinarily trade on the U.S. stock market, an ADR allows an investor to buy these stocks as easily as they would invest in any domestic stock. The arrangement also benefits foreign firms, allowing them to raise capital from the U.S. market. Representative Hakeem Jeffries,rich casino1 the New Yorker poised to succeed Speaker Nancy Pelosi as the leader of House Democrats, is a political liberal, a former corporate lawyer and an exceedingly careful tactician who rose to the pinnacle of power representing some of the nations most iconic Black neighborhoods. If Mr. Jeffries secures his ascent in the coming weeks, he would become the first new House Democratic leader in two decades and make history: No Black politician has ever led a House or Senate caucus for either party. His elevation would also further consolidate power in his home borough of Brooklyn, where Mr. Jeffries represents a plurality Black district and lives less than a mile from the Senate Democratic leader, Chuck Schumer. Mr. Jeffries, 52, currently House Democrats fifth-ranking leader, helped craft the messaging plan, heavy on pocketbook issues like health care and taxes, that Democrats used to reclaim the majority in 2018. He was a vehement critic of former President Donald J. Trump, whom he once called the grand wizard of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, in a reference to the Ku Klux Klan. He was also appointed, by Ms. Pelosi, as one of the House prosecutors during Mr. Trumps first impeachment trial. (He quoted from Biggie Smalls, a fellow Brooklynite, during the trial.) In many ways, he and Ms. Pelosi have little in common. The daughter of a congressman and former mayor, she commands vast personal wealth and came to embody the progressive social politics of her adopted hometown, San Francisco, in stilettos. She is a master legislator who has helped pass landmark legislation for two decades. He is the son of a middle-class social worker and case worker for New York City who still lives in the heart of Black Brooklyn and often pairs his suits with sneakers. Outside of bipartisan federal sentencing reform, his own legislative record is relatively thin. But they do share key qualities. Both enjoy the widespread confidence of colleagues, have shown a willingness to check the most aggressive left-leaning factions of their party, and have earned reputations as disciplined messengers. Without ever declaring his desire for the top job, Mr. Jeffries appears to have more or less cleared the field of potential competition in recent months. On Thursday, he declined to publicly discuss his future, repeatedly directing attention back to Ms. Pelosi, whom he called a leader for the ages. Well see what happens as we move forward, he told reporters in the Capitol. But now is the moment to celebrate. Before winning a seat in Congress in 2012, Mr. Jeffries served for six years in the New York State Assembly. He has also been a corporate lawyer for CBS and Paul, Weiss, and once considered running for mayor of New York City. Mr. Jeffries is married to a social worker and has two sons. Emily Cochrane contributed reporting. Advertisement Continue reading the main story There are a lot of words in English that mean not happy. Unhappy is an obvious one, but we also have angry, annoyed, unsatisfied, and dissatisfied, as well as many others. Arent unsatisfied and dissatisfied basically the same word, though? They share the same root, but they have different prefixes. And, in this case, the prefixes make all the difference in the world. The real question, though, is when you should use each of these words. As it turns out, there are clear usage cases for both options. What is the Difference Between Unsatisfied and Dissatisfied? In this post, I will compare unsatisfied vs. dissatisfied. I will use each version in at least one example sentence, so you can see the words in context. Plus, I will show you a helpful memory tool that you can use when you arent sure whether to choose unsatisfied or dissatisfied. When to Use Dissatisfied What does dissatisfied mean? Dissatisfied is an adjective. Someone who is dissatisfied is upset or annoyed at something. A person might be dissatisfied by a lack of results, or by poor performance on a test. For example, The coach offered words of encouragement to his team after the loss, but it was clear that he was dissatisfied. When mom gets dissatisfied, she often takes her frustrations out on her youngest child. Diener suggests that people who dont experience much sadness or anxiety are rarely dissatisfied with their jobs and therefore feel less pressure to get more education or change careers. The Washington Post Someone who is dissatisfiedis positively bothered by his or her lack of satisfaction. When to Use Unsatisfied What does unsatisfied mean? Unsatisfied has a similar meaning to that of dissatisfied, but the words are not quite interchangeable. To be unsatisfied is simply to be less than fully satisfied. The same event might leave one person actively annoyed (dissatisfied), but another person merely less than 100% happy (unsatisfied). Unsatisfiedis a negation of the adjective satisfied, which means fulfilled or content. The prefix un- basically means not in this context, so unsatisfied means not fulfilled. Here are a few sentences with unsatisfied, I enjoyed the pizza, but I am unsatisfied because I wanted another piece. Lauren got an email reminding her that she has unsatisfied requirements on her financial aid checklist for the coming semester. As a result, those who thought his guilty plea would shed more light on Wall Streets biggest and longest fraud left the courtroom unsatisfied and uncertain about where their money had gone and who may have helped Mr. Madoff steal it. The New York Times The chart below shows the relative usage of dissatisfied vs. unsatisfied: It isnt 100 percent exhaustive, since it only looks at books published in English since 1800. Still, it lets us see a clear, long-term usage trend. Dissatisfied is more common than unsatisfied, but both see widespread use. Trick to Remember the Difference The difference between unsatisfied and dissatisfied is one of degree. To be dissatisfied is to be angry or annoyed. If you are dissatisfied, you are positively annoyed. To be unsatisfied simple means not 100 percent satisfied. If you are unsatisfied, you arent annoyed, but you werent completely satisfied. Bryan Garner gives a helpful example illustrating the difference between these two words. If you are owe a lot of money on your credit card, you debts are unsatisfied, but your creditors are dissatisfied. Since unsatisfied and unfulfilled are synonyms and share the prefix un-, you should be able to use this word as a reminder of the meaning of unsatisfied. If you do find yourself in a situation where either word would be accurate, it might be smart to default to dissatisfied, since writers have used it more often over the past two centuries, and readers will likely be more familiar with it. Summary Is it dissatisfied or unsatisfied? Dissatisfiedand unsatisfied and are almost synonyms but not quite. To be dissatisfied is to be angry or annoyed. To be unsatisfied is to be unhappy or not fully content. The words have similar meanings, but careful writers know how to distinguish between them and use each for maximum effect. Common Questions: Unsatisfied vs. Dissatisfied What is the prefix for the word satisfied? In this case, satisfied either takes the prefix unor dis, each having its own meaning. In this case, the prefix dis is used to express annoyance or angry from not being satisfied while unexpresses the simple absence of a satisfaction. What is your definition of a dissatisfied customer? That depends on your business. If you now know the difference between these words, I would consider you a happy customer! What is the meaning of unsatisfaction? Actually, unsatisfactionis not a word. Is it unsatisfied or dissatisfied? This depends on the context and meaning you intend. See above. 03:25 A new report by the World Wildlife Fund shows an alarming drop in the population of wild animals around the globe over the last fifty years. Themyboss online casino ufc 220 odds situation is at its worst in Latin America and the Caribbean with a decline of 94 percent seen since 1970. For more, check out our exclusive content on CGTN Now and subscribe to our weekly newsletter, The China Report. Swedish casino content provider NetEnt has strengthened its UK foothold with a recent supply deal with major operator Betfred. Following the deal, a wide selection of NetEnts online casino titles has gone live with the online gaming operation of the UK gambling operator and has gained access to Betfreds significant player base. After the successful completion of an integration process, Betfred customers based in the UK can now access a wide range of contentfrom the major Swedish supplier. News about NetEnt teaming up with Betfred emerge as the gaming provider looks to grow its presence in the regulated UK gambling market. As part of its UK expansion campaign, NetEnt has also recently sealed a content distribution deal with UK-focused gambling provider Blueprint Gaming, part of Germanys Gauselmann Group. Under that partnership, Blueprint Gaming would roll out NetEnt content across its UK retail network. Last September, NetEnt set up a UK subsidiary and opened a new office in Londonto further cement itself in one of its core gambling markets. The company said back then that the UK was a prioritized growth market and establishing physical presence and a subsidiary in that market would better support its locally licensed operator partners, while helping it implement its growth strategy. Obviously Delighted Commenting on their recent partnership with Betfred, NetEnt UK Ltd. Managing Director Andy Whitworth said that they are obviously delighted to partner up with one of the leading UK operatorswith their large base of dedicated players. Mr. Whitworth also noted that they are confident Betfred players will enjoy their content and unique features and that their set of marketing tools would help the gambling operator grow its business within the online gaming segment. Betfred Head of eGaming Andrew Horne commented that the Swedish iGaming studio has always been known for the quality of its games and that he thinks NetEnts upcoming roadmap looks very interesting. Mr. Horne also pointed out that Betfred has gone live with both NetEnt classics as well as new titles. Betfred has itself been quite busy in recent months and has announced several major partnerships that would support its expansion across the nascent but lucrative US regulated sports betting space. Last month, the British bookmaker partnered gambling technology giant Scientific Games to utilize its sports betting technology in Pennsylvaniawhere it plans to go live. As part of the deal, Betfreds wagering expansion effort in the Keystone State will be powered by Scientific Games OpenSports platform. In January, Betfred became the sports betting partner of Saratoga Casino Black Hawkin Colorado as the state prepares to launch regulated sports betting on May 1. State voters approved the legalization of the practice last November. Source:NetEnt games live with Betfred Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date on the days top casino news stories Should you use aka or a.k.a.? If you have ever stressed over those three little periods, you arent alone. Both aka and a.k.a.see frequent use in print, but the rules of style guides and formatting standards are often strict and unforgiving. Many college students see MLA formatting as rigid and inflexible, until they are required to adhere to APA formatting or Chicago style and learn to see MLA as relatively indifferent to most formatting minutiae. In this case, though, most sources are in agreement. Continue reading to learn whether you should use a.k.a. or aka. What is the Difference Between A.k.a and Aka? In this post, I will compare a.k.a. vs. aka. I will use each version in an example sentence or two, to give you an idea of how they should appear in context. Plus, I will show you a memory tool that makes it easier to choose the preferred spelling of this abbreviation. When to Use A.k.a. What does a.k.a. mean? A.k.a. is an abbreviation of the phrase also known as, which introduces pseudonyms or other ways to refer to something. It is popular in many writing contexts, and most English users will be familiar with it. For example, The Milwaukee Brewers (a.k.a., the second-to-last place NL Central team in 2016) are challenging the Chicago Cubs (a.k.a., the world champions in 2016) for the division lead. Martin, a.k.a. Mart or Marty, is a pleasant young man who seldom disturbs those around him. A.k.a. should be pronounced ay-kay-ay, never ah-kah. In other words, you should spell out the individual letters when speaking them aloud. When to Use Aka What does aka mean? Aka is another spelling of the same abbreviation. The only difference is that it leaves out the periods. Aka is still pronounced ay-kay-ay, and it means exactly the same thing and fits into all the same contexts as a.k.a. In fact, most sources prefer aka to a.k.a., including AP style, Merriam-Webster, and the Oxford English Dictionary. Too many periods can be clunky or confusing, especially in scientific contexts, which are often already clogged with decimal points as part of statistical notation. Aka is simpler and cleaner, and since it doesnt resemble the spelling of any other common English word, there is little reason to keep the periods in this abbreviation. As you can see, though, both forms do appear in print sources: This chart graphs akavs. a.k.a.in English books since 1800. Since it only looks at books, it isnt exhaustive in its scope. It does, however, clearly illustrates a long-term usage trend. Trick to Remember the Difference? For all the reasons discussed above, you should choose aka over a.k.a. unless you have been specifically instructed not to do so. Since the Associated Press doesnt include periods in the abbreviation of its own name (AP), it ought to be simple to remember that AP doesnt recommend using them in the abbreviation aka, either. Summary Is it a.k.a. or aka? Aka and a.k.a. are abbreviations of the phrase also known as, which introduces pseudonyms and other ways to refer to something. Both forms are popular, but most dictionaries and style guides prefer aka, so you should, too. In short, 02:07 New government data finds the U.S. economy rebounded to grow 2.6 percent in the third quarter,roughie tips bet365 official site the country's first quarterly GDP increase this year. After two consecutive periods of negative growth, the figures released on Thursday come as a boost amid fears of a looming recession. For more, check out our exclusive content on CGTN Now and subscribe to our weekly newsletter, The China Report. dangerous New Word List Definition of dangerous dangerous/ (dendrs) / adjectivecausing danger; perilous Derived forms of dangerous dangerously, adverbdangerousness, noun Other Idioms and Phrases with dangerous dangerous see little knowledge is a dangerous thing; live dangerously. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.[ deyn-jer-uhs, deynj-ruhs ]/ den dr s, dend rs /Save This Word!See synonyms for: dangerous / dangerously on Thesaurus.comThis shows grade level based on the word's complexity.Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012The American Heritage Idioms Dictionary Copyright 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. What Is a Rate of Return (RoR)?atp sbr odds A rate of return (RoR) is the net gain or loss of an investment over a specified time period, expressed as a percentage of the investments initial cost. When calculating the rate of return, you are determining the percentage change from the beginning of the period until the end. Key Takeaways The rate of return (RoR) is used to measure the profit or loss of an investment over time. The metric of RoR can be used on a variety of assets, from stocks to bonds, real estate, and art. The effects of inflation are not taken into consideration in the simple rate of return calculation but are in the real rate of return calculation. The internal rate of return (IRR) takes into consideration the time value of money. Rate of Return Understanding a Rate of Return (RoR) 1:41 A rate of return (RoR) can be applied to any investment vehicle, from real estate to bonds, stocks, and fine art. The RoR works with any asset provided the asset is purchased at one point in time and produces cash flow at some point in the future. Investments are assessed based, in part, on past rates of return, which can be compared against assets of the same type to determine which investments are the most attractive. Many investors like to pick a required rate of return before making an investment choice. The Formula for Rate of Return (RoR) The formula to calculate the rate of return (RoR) is: Rate of return = [ ( Current value Initial value ) Initial value ] 1 0 0 \text{ Rate of return} = [\frac{ (\text{ Current value} - \text{ Initial value})}{ \text{ Initial value}}]\times 100 Rate of return=[Initial value(Current valueInitial value)]100 This simple rate of return is sometimes called the basic growth rate, or alternatively, return on investment (ROI). If you also consider the effect of the time value of money and inflation, the real rate of return can also be defined as the net amount of discounted cash flows (DCF) received on an investment after adjusting for inflation. Rate of Return (RoR) on Stocks and Bonds The rate of return calculations for stocks and bonds is slightly different. Assume an investor buys a stock for $60 a share, owns the stock for five years, and earns a total amount of $10 in dividends. If the investor sells the stock for $80, his per-share gain is $80 - $60 = $20. In addition, he has earned $10 in dividend income for a total gain of $20 + $10 = $30. The rate of return for the stock is thus a $30 gain per share, divided by the $60 cost per share, or 50%. On the other hand, consider an investor that pays $1,000 for a $1,000 par value 5% coupon bond. The investment earns $50 in interest income per year. If the investor sells the bond for $1,100 in premium value and earns $100 in total interest, the investors rate of return is the $100 gain on the sale, plus $100 interest income divided by the $1,000 initial cost, or 20%. Real Rate of Return (RoR) vs. Nominal Rate of Return (RoR) The simple rate of return is considered a nominal rate of return since it does not account for the effect of inflation over time. Inflation reduces the purchasing power of money, and so $335,000 six years from now is not the same as $335,000 today. Discounting is one way to account for the time value of money. Once the effect of inflation is taken into account, we call that the real rate of return (or the inflation-adjusted rate of return). Real Rate of Return (RoR) vs. Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) A closely related concept to the simple rate of return is the compound annual growth rate (CAGR). The CAGR is the mean annual rate of return of an investment over a specified period of time longer than one year, which means the calculation must factor in growth over multiple periods. To calculate compound annual growth rate, we divide the value of an investment at the end of the period in question by its value at the beginning of that period; raise the result to the power of one divided by the number of holding periods, such as years; and subtract one from the subsequent result. Example of a Rate of Return (RoR) The rate of return can be calculated for any investment, dealing with any kind of asset. Let's take the example of purchasing a home as a basic example for understanding how to calculate the RoR. Say that you buy a house for $250,000 (for simplicity let's assume you pay 100% cash). Six years later, you decide to sell the housemaybe your family is growing and you need to move into a larger place. You are able to sell the house for $335,000, after deducting any realtor's fees and taxes. The simple rate of return on the purchase and sale of the house is as follows: ( 3 3 5 , 0 0 0 2 5 0 , 0 0 0 ) 2 5 0 , 0 0 0 1 0 0 = 3 4 % \frac{ (335,000-250,000)}{ 250,000} \times 100 = 34\% 250,000(335,000250,000)100=34% Now, what if, instead, you sold the house for less than you paid for itsay, for $187,500? The same equation can be used to calculate your loss, or the negative rate of return, on the transaction: ( 1 8 7 , 5 0 0 2 5 0 , 0 0 0 ) 2 5 0 , 0 0 0 1 0 0 = 2 5 % \frac{ (187,500 - 250,000)}{ 250,000} \times 100 = -25\% 250,000(187,500250,000)100=25% Internal Rate of Return (IRR) and Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) The next step in understanding RoR over time is to account for the time value of money (TVM), which the CAGR ignores. Discounted cash flows take the earnings of an investment and discount each of the cash flows based on a discount rate. The discount rate represents a minimum rate of return acceptable to the investor, or an assumed rate of inflation. In addition to investors, businesses use discounted cash flows to assess the profitability of their investments. Assume, for example, a company is considering the purchase of a new piece of equipment for $10,000, and the firm uses a discount rate of 5%. After a $10,000 cash outflow, the equipment is used in the operations of the business and increases cash inflows by $2,000 a year for five years. The business applies present value table factors to the $10,000 outflow and to the $2,000 inflow each year for five years. The $2,000 inflow in year five would be discounted using the discount rate at 5% for five years. If the sum of all the adjusted cash inflows and outflows is greater than zero, the investment is profitable. A positive net cash inflow also means that the rate of return is higher than the 5% discount rate. The rate of return using discounted cash flows is also known as the internal rate of return (IRR). The internal rate of return is a discount rate that makes the net present value (NPV) of all cash flows from a particular project or investment equal to zero. IRR calculations rely on the same formula as NPV does and utilizes the time value of money (using interest rates). The formula for IRR is as follows: What Is Always Be ClosingABC?guaranteed ways to win on roulette Always Be Closing (ABC) is a motivational phrase used to describe a sales strategy. It implies that a salesperson following the regimen should continuously look for new prospects, pitch products or services to those prospects, and ultimately complete a sale. As a strategy, ABC requires that the salesperson be persistent, but also that they know when to cut their losses and move on to another prospect. Key Takeaways Always Be Closing is a mantra used in the sales world meaning a seller must always be in the mindset of closing deals, using whatever tactics are necessary. The phrase's origins are the 1992 David Mamet-scripted film "Glengarry Glen Ross," which is based on his Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name. In the modern age, studies show lead generation, customer follow-up, and strategy sessions comprise a greater part of a salesperson's day than "closing." The Basics of ABC The phrase Always Be Closing was popularized in the 1992 film, "Glengarry Glen Ross" starring Alec Baldwin, Al Pacino, and Jack Lemmon. The movie was written by David Mamet and was based on his Pulitzer Prize-winning play. It emphasized the darker, cutthroat side of the sales industry. In the film, an aggressive representative from the corporate office is brought in to motivate a group of real estate agents, telling them to sell more property or be fired if they fail. He delivers a profanity-laced tirade, accusing the salespeople of being timid and unmotivated. He flaunts his wealth and success. During his speech, he flips over a blackboard on which the words "Always Be Closing" are written, and he repeats the phrase several times. The speech backfires, however, because the salespeople resort to a host of unethical tactics to achieve their sales numbers. Later, in the 2000 film "Boiler Room," a sales trainer mentoring a young stockbroker asks the trainee if he's seen "Glengarry Glen Ross." He then proceeds to quiz him on the meaning of Always Be Closing. The Effectiveness of Always Be Closing The term has become a catchall example of a few of the pithy quotations that sales managers often use to motivate their sales staffs and to drive home the importance of being tenacious with prospects. It serves as a reminder that every action a salesperson takes with a client prospect should be done with the intention of moving the sale toward a close. From the initial rapport-building stage of the sales process to uncovering customer needs and product positioning, the representative should be "closing" the entire time, setting the customer up to to a point where the only logical thing to do is pull out his checkbook. Always Be Closing, as a concept, may be a relic of an earlier time; savvy, modern consumers are less likely to be as susceptible to sales pitches in an era when so much information is available online about products and pricing. Real World Example While it might be entertaining on the big screen, ABC is seldom successful in real life situations for a variety of reasons. A 2018 study by CSO Insights, an independent research and data provider, indicated that successful salespeople spent, at most, 35% of their time actually selling or "closing" deals. The research found that lead generation, customer follow-up, strategy and planning sessions, and administrative tasks comprised the lion's share of their time. As InvestementNews.com reports, research suggests that the ABC mentality is losing its effectiveness. The average 21st-century customer comes armed with significantly more information than a consumer did in 1984, when the David Mamet story was a Pulitzer Prize-winning stage presentation, and even since 1992, when the film was released. Modern customers prefer to shop around and research before making purchases. They're much less susceptible to slick sales pitches than people once were. Australias second-biggest casino company will need to come up with about A$13 millionin its 1H FY2022 accounts to pad the checks and retirement funds of more than 2000 employees. Star Entertainment Grouphad been underpaying workers for the last six years. On Monday, the operator said that it had been in contact with the United Workers Union and the Fair Work Ombudsman to let them know it planned to begin making payments of back pay with interest and contributions to the workers preservation super accounts. The news came from a stock exchange filing wherein Star stated the underpayments had been found during a scheduled six-year review of salaried staff wages (see .PDF here). The statement noted that since the discrepancies were found it had improved its processes, systems and training and has a plan in place to ensure salaried team members pay is correct moving forward. Star CEO Matt Bekier added: We apologize to any team member impacted by the payment shortfall and we are committed to doing the right thing by acting transparently. Our priority is to address this issue and to ensure that it does not happen again. 1H FY2022 Financial Results to be Announced February 17 The statement comes ahead of The Stars 1H FY2022 financial results which will be released on February 17. It has already been known for some time that the numbers will show material impact from a lack of cross-border customer traffic, overall operating restrictions, and outright closures in the face of the worldwide health emergency of COVID-19. The operator is already reeling from a withering review of its statutory regulatory responsibilities in maintaining a safe and sane gambling environment and has denied claims that it has unwittingly allowed money to be laundered through its gambling floors. While the impacted employees were found through internal review and the company is already in the process of compensating the affected workers for the shortfall, union representatives look at the issue from another angle as it isnt a one-off occurrence with a single employer, but something that occurs far too often in many industries. Imogen Beynon of the United Workers Union called on The Star to fix the situation for workers sooner rather than later. Beynon said in a statement: We know from this example and many others that incidences of wage theft and underpayments are reduced when people are covered by a union agreement. This situation has also brought to light the issues surrounding many companies over-reliance on salaries which fall short of the relevant award. Some Workers Not better off overall During the six-year period comprising the review, workers were paid about $3.3 billion. While the overall shortfall in pay relative to the expected award is small, individually it had the potential to affect individual team members quality of life with basic salary insufficient to properly compensate them for overtime and expected enhanced rates. Star Entertainment Group Ltd (ASX: SGR) stock has been on a steady rise since January 27 after experiencing a precipitous drop between October 6th and 12th with gains since that time of a rosy 29 percent. A strong first-half operating report later this month is not expected to see any surprises with EBITDA in the positive $30m range and expected normalized net loss over $70m. Stock prices are more likely to be driven by any new COVID variants or surges than the known fundamentals. Source: Star casino to pay $13 million after wage theft, The New Daily, February 7, 2022 Take fiscal year 2013, the last year the finalized data is available. We might even see data that suggest the program is performing efficiently. The flight management computers include the navigation data programmed for every flight. Therefore, it is not possible for any F-35 schedule to include a video data link or infrared pointer at this point. In short, the existing data makes fracking seem like a judgment call. New Yorks Conservative Fracking Ban|Jay Michaelson|December 20, 2014|DAILY BEAST Besides a few crumbs, it contained a small lump of narwhal blubber and a little packet. The Giant of the North|R.M. Ballantyne This important rite was just completed, when a packet was put into Ripperda's hand from Spain. The Pastor's Fire-side Vol. 3 of 4|Jane Porter Something influenced by his reasoning, Ripperda employed the greatest part of the day in writing a large packet for his son. The Pastor's Fire-side Vol. 3 of 4|Jane Porter He has a packet in his possession, that will inform Louis de Montemar of the fate of his father. The Pastor's Fire-side Vol. 3 of 4|Jane Porter 03:02 Despite the lingering fallout of a trade war and a continuing supply chain crisis,premier bet zone login China remains the state of Oregon's No. 1 trading partner, and top source for international students and visitors. Recently, we talked to the Vice President of the Oregon China Council, who shared her early memories of China. For more, check out our exclusive content on CGTN Now and subscribe to our weekly newsletter, The China Report. What had been the greatest asset of the paperback revolution, observes Rabinowitz, became its greatest danger. Speech, in this case, is our ability to spend money on a goofy entertainment. Kickstarter is one start-up platform that seems to have realized the danger. And Epstein continues to steer money toward universities to advance scientific research. I suspect [Teresa] will get money sent in to her, so she can shop at the commissary. How a Real Housewife Survives Prison: I Dont See [Teresa Giudice] Having a Cakewalk Here|Michael Howard|January 6, 2015|DAILY BEAST But the greatest danger I ever underwent in that kingdom was from a monkey, who belonged to one of the clerks of the kitchen. Gulliver's Travels|Jonathan Swift In particular the Governor of Adinskoy offered us a guard of fifty men to the next station, if we apprehended any danger. The Life and Most Surprising Adventures of Robinson Crusoe, of York, Mariner (1801)|Daniel Defoe If Mac had been alone he would have made the post by sundown, for the Mounted Police rode picked horses, the best money could buy. Raw Gold|Bertrand W. Sinclair Worst danger zone, the open sea, now traversed, but on land not yet out of the wood. Gallipoli Diary, Volume I|Ian Hamilton bwin free spinsshows grade level based on the word's complexity. damiana [ dam-ee-an-uh ]/ dm in / New Word List Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.[ dam-ee-an-uh ]/ dm in /Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. nounthe dried leaves of a Mexican plant, Turnera diffusa, formerly used as a laxative and a tonic, and purported to be effective in the treatment of sexual impotence. Words nearby damiana How to use in a sentence Damiana exerts a stimulant effect upon the sexual appetite and function. The Propaganda for Reform in Proprietary Medicines, Vol. 2 of 2|Various The Propaganda for Reform in Proprietary Medicines, Vol. 2 of 2|Various When night came, Rosa and Damiana went to the ball, and Juana retired for the night as soon as her daughters were gone. Filipino Popular Tales|Dean S. Fansler Filipino Popular Tales|Dean S. Fansler The elder of these daughters was Rosa, and the younger was Damiana. Filipino Popular Tales|Dean S. Fansler Filipino Popular Tales|Dean S. Fansler Then Damiana put it on her foot, but her foot was too small. Filipino Popular Tales|Dean S. Fansler Then she sat between her two sisters, but neither Rosa nor Damiana recognized her. Filipino Popular Tales|Dean S. Fansler QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Question damianaFirst recorded in 186570; from Latin American Spanish (Mexico)dame-school, dame's rocket, dame's violet, damfool, Damia, damiana, Damien, Damietta, daminozide, dammar, dammitDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 Illustration: Xia Qing/GT Recently,a university student made a post on a social media platform doubting the qualification of a Peking University's doctoral supervisor. The claimant, who claimed to be qualified for continuing education as postgraduate student, said the professor did not graduate from a well-known university in China. The student also asserted that some Peking University's teachers are not as shining in terms of diplomas - that even teachers from Shenzhen Middle School in South China's Guangdong Province are superior in this regard. The post went viral, sparking hot debates online. A diploma from top universities cannot necessarily prove whether or not a person is qualified for a certain job. As a matter of fact, the fact that the above-mentioned professor can teach in Peking University does prove he must have real distinction. In any case, students are encouraged to raise questions. However, being arrogant won't help. The question raised should be reasonable, and open mind needs to be kept. On July 9,barzcasino 2018, during the visit of Kuwait Emir Sabahs visit to China, under the witness of the heads of state of China and Kuwait, Fu Ziying, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Commerce of China, and HE Khaled Nasser Abdullah Al-Roudan, Minister of Commerce and Industry of Kuwait In Beijing, signed a Memorandum of Understanding on E-Commerce Cooperation between the Ministry of Commerce of the Peoples Republic of China and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry of Kuwait. China and Kuwait are traditionally friendly. Kuwait is the first Gulf Arab country to establish diplomatic relations with China. It is also the first country in the world to sign a Belt and Road cooperation document with China. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties 47 years ago, China-Kuwait economic and trade relations have developed steadily and pragmatic cooperation has continued to deepen. The prospects for cooperation between the two countries under the framework of the Belt and Road are very broad. While deepening cooperation in traditional fields such as bilateral trade and project contracting, China and Kuwait are also actively exploring and expanding new areas of cooperation. According to the memorandum, China and the Kuwait will jointly create a good development environment for e-commerce, conduct regular government-level dialogues, promote local cooperation and public-private dialogue, and support the cooperation between enterprises of the two countries in e-commerce projects, especially through e-commerce to promote quality products and The import and export trade of services will open up new ways and new areas of Sino-Kuwait economic and trade cooperation through e-commerce, continuously improve the level of trade facilitation and cooperation, and further promote the sustained and stable development of bilateral economic and trade relations. China and Kuwait sign MoU on E-commerce Cooperationadded by chinatimesonline on View all posts by chinatimesonline What Is a Monetarist?real money slots no minimum deposit A monetarist is an economist who holds the strong belief that money supplyincluding physical currency, deposits, and creditis the primary factor affecting demand in an economy. Consequently, the economy's performanceits growth or contractioncan be regulated by changes in the money supply. The key driver behind this belief is the impact of inflation on an economy's growth or health and the idea that by controlling the money supply, one can control the inflation rate. Key Takeaways Monetarists are economists and policymakers who subscribe to the theory of monetarism. Monetarists believe that regulating the money supply is the most effective and direct way of regulating the economy Famous monetarists include Milton Friedman, Alan Greenspan, and Margaret Thatcher. Understanding Monetarists At its core, monetarism is an economic formula. It states that money supply multiplied by its velocity (the rate at which money changes hands in an economy) is equal to nominal expenditures in the economy (goods and services) multiplied by price. While this makes sense, monetarists say velocity is generally stable, which has been debated since the 1980s. The most well-known monetarist is Milton Friedman, who wrote the first serious analysis using monetarist theory in his 1963 book, A Monetary History of The United States, 18671960. In the book, Friedman along with Anna Jacobson Schwartz argued in favor of monetarism as a way to combat the economic impacts of inflation. They argued that a lack of money supply amplified the financial crisis of the late 1920s and led to the Great Depression, and that a steady increase in the money supply in line with growth in the economy would produce growth without inflation. The monetarist view was a minority view in both academic and applied economics until the financial troubles of the 1970s. As unemployment and inflation soared, the dominant economic theory Keynesian economics was unable to explain the current economic puzzle presented by economic contraction and simultaneous inflation. Keynesian economics said that high unemployment and economic contraction would lead to deflation through a collapse in demand and conversely that inflation was the result of demand outstripping supply in an over-heated economy. The final collapse of the gold standard in 1971, the oil shocks of the mid-1970s, and the beginning of de-industrialization in the United States in the late 1970s all contributed to stagflation, a new phenomenon that was difficult for Keynesian economics to explain. Monetarism, however, argued that restricting the money supply would kill inflation, which would be a necessary step to regulating the economy even if it came at the cost of a short-term recession. That is exactly what Paul Volcker, the head of the Federal Reserve from 1979 to 1987, did. The result was a final vindication of monetarism in the eyes of economists and policymakers. Examples of Monetarists and Monetarism Most monetarists opposed the gold standard in that the limited supply of gold would stall the amount of money in the system, which would lead to inflation, something monetarists believe should be controlled by the money supply, which is not possible under the gold standard unless gold is continually mined. Milton Friedman is the most famous monetarist. Other monetarists include former Federal Reserve Chair Alan Greenspan and former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. MADINA WANDIFA,genie jackpots megaways free play Senegal Although still sweaty and tired after his long journey, the long-distance truck driver was upbeat as he watched workers unload hundreds of boxes of butter from his truck onto the pavement of a busy city street in southern Senegal. The driver, Cheikh Oumar Tamba, had only one more stop to make, just two days after loading his truck with slabs of butter in the capital, Dakar. That, though, wasnt the only reason for his good mood. This drive used to take much longer. But with the construction of a towering bridge across the Gambia River, one of the regions biggest traffic bottlenecks is now gone a tangible example of the positive impact that much-needed infrastructure projects are having on peoples lives in West Africa. MAURITANIA Atlantic Ocean SENEGAL Dakar Kaolack Senegambia Bridge GAMBIA Madina Wandifa GUINEA- BISSAU GUINEA 100 miles Before the Senegambia Bridge was inaugurated three years ago, hundreds of truck drivers moving goods south from Dakar would need to line up for a ferry, sometimes waiting days to cross. Fruit would rot. Milk delivered by Mr. Tamba would go rancid. Ambulances would remain stuck in the mile-long line. We used to have to bribe the ferry folks to cross faster, said Mr. Tamba, 45, who has been cruising West African roads for a dozen years. That bridge has made our lives much easier. Image El Hadj Yaya Baba, a Senegalese truck driver who delivers milk, on his way back to Dakar from Madina Wandifa in the Casamance region of Senegal.Credit...Carmen Abd Ali for The New York Times Also, ferries would operate during daylight only, cutting the north from the south when darkness fell. It didnt matter what kind of emergency you had at night, it was impossible to cross, said Ousman Gajigo, an economist at the Africa Development Bank who grew up in Gambia. The ferries could be dangerous, whether crossing the Gambia or instead going by the ocean on routes that connected coastal ports in the south with Dakar. In 2002, one ferry, the Joola, capsized in the Atlantic, killing more than 1,800 people. The lack of bridges straddling the Gambia River had also exacerbated a sense of regional divide, with residents of the southern Casamance region, Senegals food basket, blaming the government in Dakar for keeping them disconnected from the rest of the country. Earlier this year, separatist rebels in the south signed a peace deal with the government, bringing hope that a 40-year, slow-burning conflict one of the longest in Africa could finally end. Image A partly finished section of road in the Casamance region, near the Gambian border.Credit...Carmen Abd Ali for The New York Times The ferry crossing itself is not in Senegal but in Gambia, a thin strip of a country, stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to nearly 200 miles inland, that splits Senegal into northern and southern parts. Gambias former strongman president, Yahya Jammeh, had long refused to build a bridge during his 22-year rule, using his countrys geographical position as a source of leverage against its bigger neighbor. Only after decades of political negotiations did the long-delayed construction project kick off in 2015, two years before Mr. Jammeh was forced into exile but when he was already facing intensifying pressure for change. In 2019, the presidents of Gambia and Senegal traveled across the bridge in the same car. For a toll of about $7.50, a trip once measured in days now takes minutes. In the southern Senegalese city of Madina Wandifa, not far from the Gambian border, Abdoul Aziz Faye was resting on the side of the road while his boss ran some errands. They had delivered medicines from Dakar to Guinea-Bissau, and were about to drive back north over the bridge. Image Unloading the butter delivered by Cheikh Oumar Tamba to a store in Madina Wandifa, in southern Senegal.Credit...Carmen Abd Ali for The New York Times Home tonight, hopefully, the 25-year-old driver said about Dakar, an E.T.A. that would have been unthinkable a few years ago. Its not just the truckers who have benefited. I can leave this morning, drop passengers on the other side of Senegal, and be back by 2 p.m. to have lunch with my wife, said Samba Diop, waiting for his minibus to fill at a bus station in Kaolack, the last Senegalese hub before the northern Gambian border. Many people in Gambia and the surrounding regions of Senegal live off the production of groundnuts, rice and vegetables, but the lack of reliable transport infrastructure that could link farms to markets had kept most of them in poverty, according to the African Development Bank, which financed the construction of the $67 million bridge. In October last year, the Gambian authorities inaugurated a second, smaller bridge in the eastern part of the country, financed by China. For all the progress the Senegambia Bridge has brought, the journey south is not without its bumps, both literal and metaphorical, with the peaceful river flowing through mangrove swamps and salt flats just one of the many obstacles on the road. In Gambia, where many wait for the authorities to prosecute those accused of committing wide-ranging atrocities under Mr. Jammehs rule, there were at least five checkpoints on a 15-mile trip from border to border. Image A minibus at the bus station in Kaolack, in northern Senegal, waiting to depart for the Casamance region.Credit...Carmen Abd Ali for The New York Times And after Gambia? Thats another story, said Mr. Diop, the minibus driver. Although President Macky Sall of Senegal has conducted major infrastructure projects in the north, critics say the south has been neglected, with its terrible roads a prime example. As soon as those traveling south cross back into Senegal from Gambia, thousands of potholes littering the road await, as if armies of moles had turned Casamance into their personal playground. The 90-mile journey from the border to Ziguinchor, the main city in the Casamance region, is an ordeal that can take half a day. Better roads must be on Senegals agenda now, Mr. Diop said. Despite the benefits the bridge has brought, its building has also devastated the livelihoods of those who once lived off the hundreds of idling vehicles, and their hungry, thirsty and bored passengers. Image A road in Sedhiou, in the Casamance region.Credit...Carmen Abd Ali for The New York Times On a recent afternoon at the rivers edge below the bridge, Lamarana Diallo was waiting for his first client of the day. No one had yet stopped to sip on his ataya, Senegalese mint tea. A father of four, Mr. Diallo used to make around $30 on a typical day, but now he said he was lucky if he earned $1.50. Where once there were hundreds of fellow vendors selling clothes, sweets and meals, there are now only two left. By the rivers pier, the few shops and ticket offices have been abandoned. A dozen Gambian military personnel were stationed there, chain smoking, eating thieboudienne, Senegals national dish of fish and rice, and chatting about soccer. The Senegambia Bridge is open 24/7, but the job protecting it is chill, said Sgt. Lamin Badjie, the structure soaring over the barracks. In the sometimes complicated relationship between Senegal and Gambia, it was a welcome new connection between the two countries, Sergeant Badjie said. Image One of the two shops still open at the old ferry pier. The hundreds of vendors once selling clothes, sweets and meals at the ferry crossing are now gone.Credit...Carmen Abd Ali for The New York Times Citing the ethnic groups he and comrades belonged to Serer, Soninke, Mandinka, groups that also populate Senegal Sergeant Badjie said about the bridge, It makes us more united. Were the same people. Omar Ndaw, a 36-year-old undercover Gambian police officer, said the bridge helped him navigate more smoothly in the areas he patrols. A surge in trafficking of counterfeit diazepam, a drug used to treat anxiety and alcohol withdrawal, has kept him busy this year. Lets just say the bridge helps everyone me, and the community, Mr. Ndaw said before starting off in his used red Nissan. A minute later, his car was out of sight on the bridge. He had crossed the river. Image Not all the roads in southern Senegal are in rough shape. This stretch of a national road in the Casamance region is in prime condition. Credit...Carmen Abd Ali for The New York Times Mady Camara contributed reporting. Advertisement Continue reading the main story What Is a Lorenz Curve?x fixed matches spinia bonus codes A Lorenz curve, developed by American economist Max Lorenz in 1905, is a graphical representation of income inequality or wealth inequality. The graph plots percentiles of the population on the horizontal axis according to income or wealth and plots cumulative income or wealth on the vertical axis. Key Takeaways A Lorenz curve is a graphical representation of the distribution of income or wealth within a population. Lorenz curves graph percentiles of the population against cumulative income or wealth of people at or below that percentile. Lorenz curves, along with their derivative statistics, are widely used to measure inequality across a population. The Lorenz curve is a central piece in calculating the Gini coefficient, a mathematical representation of inequality levels. Because Lorenz curves are mathematical estimates based on fitting a continuous curve to incomplete and discontinuous data, they may be imperfect measures of true inequality. Understanding the Lorenz Curve In practice, a Lorenz curve is usually a mathematical function estimated from an incomplete set of observations of income or wealth. The Lorenz curve is often accompanied by a straight diagonal line with a slope of 1, which represents perfect equality in income or wealth distribution; the Lorenz curve lies beneath it, showing the observed or estimated distribution. While the Lorenz curve is most often used to represent economic inequality, it can also demonstrate unequal distribution in any system. The farther the curve is from the baseline, represented by the straight diagonal line, the higher the level of inequality. In economics, the Lorenz curve denotes inequality in the distribution of either wealth or income. These are not synonymous since it is possible to have either high earnings but zero or negative net worth, or low earnings but a large net worth. A Lorenz curve usually starts with an empirical measurement of wealth or income distribution across a population based on data such as tax returns, which report income for a large portion of the population. A graph of the data may be used directly as a Lorenz curve, or economists and statisticians may fit a curve that represents a continuous function to fill in any gaps in the observed data. The closer the Lorenz curve is to the line of equality, the less inequality exists. The further the Lorenz curve is to the line of equality, the more inequality exists. Components of the Lorenz Curve The United States Federal Reserve collected net worth statistics from U.S. households. It then graphically depicted the inequality distribution of wealth. The latest data collected by the survey of consumer finances is from 2019. Per the Federal Reserve, the underlying data demonstrates that the bottom 50% of households hold just 1.5% of overall household wealth. There are several important components to understand when analyzing a Lorenz curve: The x-axisis often denoted as the percentile. In the graph above, the x-axis is the percentile of net worth ranking compared to other U.S. households. The y-axisis often denoted as the cumulative percentage of occurrences. In the graph above, the percentages represent the cumulative amount of net worth of households. The line of equalityis demonstrated by a 45-degree, upward-sloping line. In the graph above, it is denoted as the dashed line. The Lorenz curveis demonstrated often by an upward-sloping but often exponentially rising curve. In the graph above, it is denoted as a solid line. The Gini coefficient (discussed below) is the gap between the line of equality and the Lorenz curve. Lorenz Curve, U.S. Household Net Worth (2019). The Lorenz Curve and the Gini Coefficient The Gini coefficient is used to express the extent of inequality in a single figure. It most often ranges from 0 (or 0%) to 1 (or 100%). Complete equality, in which every individual has the exact same income or wealth, corresponds to a coefficient of 0. Plotted as a Lorenz curve, complete equality would be a straight diagonal line with a slope of 1 (the area between this curve and itself is 0, so the Gini coefficient is 0). A coefficient of 1 means that one person earns all of the income or holds all of the wealth. In theory, the Gini coefficient can exceed 100% in extreme situations. For example, when handling negative wealth or income, the figure can theoretically be higher than 1; in that case, the Lorenz curve would dip below the horizontal axis. The Gini coefficient is equal to the area below the line of perfect equality minus the area below the Lorenz curve, divided by the area below the line of perfect equality. In the graph above, the Gini coefficient is the area below the dashed line but above the solid line. The Gini coefficient is used to measure the extent of inequality. It can also be used to compare two different nations or countries to see which has more inequality. For data sets demonstrating inequality, it may be difficult to property analyze certain sections of data. For example, the graph above has a very long left-skewed tail. This makes it difficult to exam changes in equality for this section of data. Advantages and Disadvantages of the Lorenz Curve Advantages of the Lorenz Curve A Lorenz curve gives more detailed information about the exact distribution of wealth or income across a population than summary statistics such as the Gini coefficient or the Lorenz asymmetry coefficient. Because a Lorenz curve visually displays the distribution across each percentile (or other unit breakdowns), it can show precisely at which income (or wealth) percentiles the observed distribution varies from the line of equality and by how much. The underlying data for a Lorenz curve is necessary to calculate the Gini coefficient, a primary means of mathematically measuring inequality. Assuming sufficient data can be collected, a Lorenz curve can be prepared for any geographical region (i.e. by country, by state, by city, etc.). This may be especially important for governments relying on a Lorenz curve to better understand how to most appropriately assess tax brackets. Though the Lorenz curve often displays sensitive financial information, it also maintains the anonymity of the underlying surveyed individuals. In addition, the Lorenz curve can be layered on top of itself over time, demonstrating how public policy has changed the level of inequality at various points along the Lorenz curve. Disadvantages of the Lorenz Curve Because constructing a Lorenz curve involves fitting a continuous function to some incomplete set of data, there is no guarantee that the values along a Lorenz curve (other than those actually observed in the data) actually correspond to the true distributions of income. This is also true because it may be too expensive or demand too many resources to collect enough data points to fill all gaps. Most of the points along the curve are just guesses based on the shape of the curve that best fits the observed data points. Therefore, the shape of the Lorenz curve can be sensitive to the quality and sample size of the data and to the mathematical assumptions and judgments as to what constitutes a best-fit curve, and these may represent sources of substantial error between the Lorenz curve and the actual distribution. The Lorenz curve (or Gini coefficient) may also be insufficient to clearly demonstrate the extent of change of inequality over time. Consider a situation where two Gini coefficients are calculated to be the exact same. It is possible for the slope of the Lorenz curve to be radically different, yet the underlying aggregated inequality level is calculated to be the same. Visually depicts inequality across a population in a manner easy to understand and analyze Is used to help calculate the Gini coefficient, a primary mathematical mean of calculating inequality May assist governments in making public policy changes or impacting tax bracket ranges based on income Maintains anonymity of surveyed individuals May be compiled to show how the curve has changed over time Sample data may not appropriately reflect the overall population, therefore displaying an incorrect Lorenz curve May require extensive data collection to adequately fill in the entire curve May require estimation or preparer inference as to the curve to draw May mislead analysts due to the varying shapes and sizes of the Gini coefficient area; different areas may be equal in size yet vary in appearance Lorenz Curve Example ProsCons The curve above shows a continuous Lorenz curve that has been fitted to data that describes income distribution in Brazil as of 2020. The data set is also compared to a straight diagonal line representing perfect equality. At the 55th income percentile, the value of the Lorenz curve is 22.39%. This means that the Lorenz curve estimates that the bottom 55% of the population takes in 22.39% of the nations total income. If Brazil were a perfectly equal society, the bottom 55% would earn 55% of the total. Elsewhere, we can see that the 99th percentile corresponds to 89.32% in cumulative income. This means that the top 1% takes in 11.68% of Brazils income. To find the approximate Gini coefficient, subtract the area beneath the Lorenz curve (around 0.25) from the area beneath the line of perfect equality (0.5 by definition). Divide the result by the area beneath the line of perfect equality, which yields a coefficient of around 0.5 or 50%. According to the World Bank, Brazils Gini coefficient was 48.9 in 2020. Why Is the Lorenz Curve Important? The Lorenz curve is important because it represents one of the best and simplest ways to illustrate the level of economic inequality in society. As the Lorenz curve moves away from the baseline, the underlying data suggests that the unequal distribution keeps increasing. How Does the Lorenz Curve Measure Inequality? The Lorenz curve is a graphical representationof the distribution of income or wealth in a society. Basically, the farther the curve moves from the baseline, represented by the straight diagonal line, the higher the level of inequality. Who Uses Lorenz Curves? Government agencies are especially interested in Lorenz curves, especially for net worth and income distributions within their country. Lorenz curves inform governments of how public policy is working (or not working). It may also be an indicator of how a government should establish its tax brackets based on gaps or ranges of income. How Is a Lorenz Curve Calculated? After collecting data from a relatively large sample size, a Lorenz curve is then fitted to best demonstrate the distribution of that data set. Because each set of information is different, there is no single universal curve formula, and the nonlinear regression will often look very different for different data sets. The Bottom Line A common method of visually analyzing inequality distributions is to use a Lorenz curve. The curve graphically depicts what a standard distribution of equality would look like. Then, the graph layers on the actual distribution of a given data set. The Lorenz curve is used to calculate the Gini coefficient to mathematically analyze how unequal a dataset is, and it is used to visually exam inequality levels as well. PokerStars seems to be off the hook in a lengthy and expensive lawsuit the Commonwealth of Kentucky filed against the gaming operator years ago The Kentucky Court of Appeals reversed a ruling by a lower court this past Friday, thus stripping the online poker room of liability to pay $871 million in losses incurred by Kentuckiansfor playing poker in the period between 2006 and 2011. Betting on horse racing and the state-run lottery are the only legal gambling options on the territory of Kentucky. In other words, online gambling and online poker, in particular, are prohibited by law. The state brought PokerStars to court, arguing that the gaming operator had to recover damages incurred by residents who played poker on its website between 2006 and 2011. Court papers showed that around 34,000 Kentuckians placed more than 246 million betson PokerStars during the above-mentioned period. Kentucky filed a motion against PokerStars, arguing that the card room had to pay $871 million in damages. The state based its arguments on the 18th century Loss Recovery Act that allowed a gambler or a gamblers family or any other person to recover a gamblers lossesfrom the winners. A trial court ruled in favor of Kentucky in December 2015, saying that a provision in the 18th-century statute allowed third parties to sue winners. The trial court also trebled the damages the state sought from PokerStars. Court of Appeals Reverses the Ruling In a recent ruling, the Kentucky Court of Appeals reversed the judgment of the lower court, saying that the state was not authorized to sue a winner and seek recovery of gambling losses. The Appeals Court further pointed out in a 34-page ruling that while the Loss Recovery Act contained a provision that a gambler or any other person could bring a winner to court to seek recovery of losses, the 18th-century statute did not clearly say whether the state was included in the definition of person. The recent ruling also said that allowing a third party to sue and seek recovery of losses serves to main purposes of the Loss Recovery Act to suppress gambling in Kentucky and to make a losing gambler whole. However, the state suing PokerStars only served the purpose of suppressing gambling, the Court of Appeals said. The ruling read that Kentucky did not bring the action to collect the money and then return losses to the losers, but to collect treble damages for its own benefit. The state said it is planning to appeal the recent ruling to the Kentucky Supreme Court. Commenting on the Court of Appeals judgment, Mike Wynn, spokesman for the Commonwealths Justice and Public Safety Cabinet, said that they are disappointed and that the decision does not appear to even address the substantive issues in the case, but rests entirely on procedural questions of first impression. PokerStars said in a statement that it will dispute vigorously any liabilityif the state decides to appeal the ruling to the Supreme Court or seek a rehearing before the Court of Appeals. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date on the days top casino news stories. What Is Monetarism?why did the crypto market drop today Monetarism is a macroeconomic theory which states that governments can foster economic stability by targeting the growth rate of the money supply. Essentially, it is a set of views based on the belief that the total amount of money in an economy is the primary determinant of economic growth. Key Takeaways Monetarism is a macroeconomic theory stating that governments can foster economic stability by targeting the growth rate of the money supply. Central to monetarism is the quantity theory of money, which states that the money supply (M) multiplied by the rate at which money is spent per year (V) equals the nominal expenditures (P * Q) in the economy. Monetarism is closely associated with economist Milton Friedman, who argued that the government should keep the money supply fairly steady, expanding it slightly each year mainly to allow for the natural growth of the economy. Monetarism is a branch of Keynesian economics that emphasizes the use of monetary policy over fiscal policy to manage aggregate demand, contrary to most Keynesians. Although most modern economists reject the emphasis on money growth that monetarists purported in the past, some core tenets of the theory have become a mainstay in nonmonetarist analysis. Understanding Monetarism Monetarism is an economic school of thought which states that the supply of money in an economy is the primary driver of economic growth. As the availability of money in the system increases, aggregate demand for goods and services goes up. An increase in aggregate demand encourages job creation, which reduces the rate of unemployment and stimulates economic growth. Monetary policy, an economic tool used in monetarism, is implemented to adjust interest rates that, in turn, control the money supply. When interest rates are increased, people have more of an incentive to save than to spend, thereby reducing or contracting the money supply. Contrarily, when interest rates are lowered following an expansionary monetary scheme, the cost of borrowing decreases, which means people can borrow more and spend more, thereby stimulating the economy. Milton Friedman and Monetarism Monetarism is closely associated with economist Milton Friedman, who argued, based on the quantity theory of money, that the government should keep the money supply fairly steady, expanding it slightly each year to allow for the natural growth of the economy. Due to the inflationary effects that can be brought about by the excessive expansion of the money supply, Friedman, who formulated the theory of monetarism, asserted that monetary policy should be done by targeting the growth rate of the money supply to maintain economic and price stability. In his book, A Monetary History of the United States 18671960, Friedman proposed a fixed growth rate called the K-percent rule, suggesting that money supply should grow at a constant annual rate tied to the growth of nominal gross domestic product (GDP) and be expressed as a fixed percentage per year. This way, the money supply will be expected to grow moderately, businesses will be able to anticipate the changes to the money supply every year and plan accordingly, the economy will grow at a steady rate, and inflation will be kept at low levels. The Quantity Theory of Money Central to monetarism is the "quantity theory of money," which monetarists adopted from earlier economic theories and integrated into the general Keynesian framework of macroeconomics. The quantity theory of money can be summarized in the equation of exchange, formulated by John Stuart Mill, which states that the money supply, multiplied by the rate at which money is spent per year, equals the nominal expenditures in the economy. The formula is given as: M V = P Q where: M = money supply V = velocity (rate at which money changes hands) P = average price of a good or service Q = quantity of goods and services sold \begin{ aligned} &MV = PQ \\ &\textbf{ where:} \\ &M = \text{ money supply} \\ &V = \text{ velocity (rate at which money changes hands)} \\ &P = \text{ average price of a good or service} \\ &Q = \text{ quantity of goods and services sold} \\ \end{ aligned} MV=PQwhere:M=money supplyV=velocity (rate at which money changes hands)P=average price of a good or serviceQ=quantity of goods and services sold A key point to note is that monetarists believe that changes to M (money supply) are the driver of the equation. In short, a change in M directly affects and determines employment, inflation (P), and production (Q). In the original version of the quantity theory of money, V is held to be constant, but this assumption was dropped by John Maynard Keynes and is not assumed by the monetarists, who instead believe that V is easily predictable. Economic growth is a function of economic activity (Q) and inflation (P). If V is constant (or at least predictable), then an increase (or decrease) in M will lead to an increase (or decrease) in either P or Q. An increase in P denotes that Q will remain constant, while an increase in Q means that P will be relatively constant. According to monetarism, variations in the money supply will affect price levels over the long term and economic output in the short term. A change in the money supply, therefore, will directly determine prices, production, and employment. Monetarism vs. Keynesian Economics The view that velocity is constant is a source of contention among Keynesians, who believe that velocity should not be constant since the economy is volatile and subject to periodic instability. Instead, Keynes' liquidity preference theory emphasizes how changes in money demand (and thus velocity) influence the price level and aggregate demand. Monetarism builds on the Keynesian theory by assuming the same macroeconomic framework and integrating the equation of exchange (with V swinging cyclically, as Keynes argued), but instead focuses on the role played by money supply. Because they believe that V can be relatively easily predicted, monetarists argue that the equation of exchange could be resuscitated as an approach to stabilization policy, and they favor the use of monetary policy to do so. Proponents of monetarism generally believe that controlling an economy through fiscal policy is a poor decision because it necessarily introduces microeconomic distortions that reduce economic efficiency. They prefer monetary policy as a tool to manage aggregate demand in a way that will be more neutral from a microeconomics standpoint and that avoids the deadweight losses and social costs that fiscal policy creates in markets. History of Monetarism Monetarism gained prominence in the 1970s, a decade characterized by high and rising inflation and slow economic growth. The policies of monetarism were responsible for bringing down inflation in the United States and the United Kingdom. After U.S. inflation peaked at 20% in 1979, the Fed switched its operating strategy to reflect monetarist theory. During this time period, economists, governments, and investors eagerly jumped at every new money supply statistic. In general, monetary policy can be characterized as contractionary or expansionary. Contractionary monetary policy is when the Fed reduces inflation by raising the federal funds rate or decreasing the money supply. Expansionary monetary policy works by expanding the money supply faster than usual or lowering short-term interest rates. In the years that followed, however, monetarism fell out of favor with many economists, as the link between different measures of money supply and inflation proved to be less clear than most monetarist theories had suggested. In addition, monetarism's ability to explain the U.S. economy waned in the following decades. Many central banks today have stopped setting monetary targets and instead have adopted strict inflation targets. Although most modern economists reject the emphasis on money growth that monetarists purported in the past, some core tenets of the theory have become a mainstay in nonmonetarist analysis. One of the most important of these ideas is that inflation cannot continue indefinitely without increases in the money supply. In addition, it is the responsibility (although not the primary goal) of the central bank to control inflation. That being said, monetarist interpretations of past economic events are still relevant today. Ben Bernanke, former Fed Chairman, cited the work of Friedman in his decision to lower interest rates and increase the U.S. money supply in order to boost the economy during the global recession that began in 2007 in the United States. Real-World Examples of Monetarism In Friedman's seminal work, A Monetary History of the United States, 18671960, whichhe wrote with fellow economist Anna Schwartz, the two economists argued that failed monetary policy executed by the Federal Reserve was responsible for the Great Depression in the U.S. in the 1930s. In the view of Friedman and Schwartz, the Fed failed to relieve downward pressure on the money supply, and their eventual actions to reduce the money supply were the opposite of what they should have done. According to Friedman and Schwartz, markets tend towards a stable center; markets will behave erratically if the money supply is not properly set. In 1979, when Paul Volcker became the Chairman of the Federal Reserve, he made combatting inflation the primary goal of the central bank. In keeping with Friedman and Schwartz's recommendations, Volcker restricted the money supply in order to do this. He raised the federal funds rate to 20% in 1980. At this time, this strategy for fighting stagflation (high inflation combined with high unemployment and stagnant demand) was successful. Volcker's policies drastically reduced the money supply, consumers stopped purchasing as much, and businesses stopped raising prices. However, while this caused inflation to greatly decline, it resulted in a big recession (the 1980-82 recession). During the same time period, Britain was also struggling with severe inflation. When Margaret Thatcher was elected prime minister in 1979, she also implemented a set of monetarist policies to combat the rising prices in the country. By 1983, inflation in Britain had been halved, from 10% to 5%. However, the popularity of monetarism was relatively brief. In the 1980s and 1990s, the link between the money supply and nominal GDP broke down; the quantity theory of moneythe backbone of monetarismwas called into question and many economists who had recommended the policies of monetarism in the 1970s abandoned the approach. A new cultural and creative industry park,fallsview casino slots the largest in downtown Shanghai by the shore of the Huangpu River, will open next year. The 100,000-square-meter park has a 739-meter-long waterfront facing the Huangpu River. It has Yangjing Port to the east, Minsheng Road to the west, Binjiang Road to the south, and the river to the north. The park will utilize the former Minsheng Wharf complex built in the early 20th century. The wharf was once the most advanced in the Far East. The western part of the wharf complex will be renovated to house a theater, a cinema and a T-stage for fashion show. Big-name fashion houses and design companies from home and abroad will rent spaces here. The eastern part of the complex will be converted into a hub of creative workshops and conference and exhibition venues. The massive silos will be transformed into what is billed the Broadway of the East by a performance company. Total investment in the park is estimated at about 1 billion yuan (US$ 164.3 million). Minsheng Wharf to morph into cultural iconadded by chinatimesonline on View all posts by chinatimesonline What Is Rationing?online poker intertops poker Rationing is the practice of controlling the distribution of a good or service in order to cope with scarcity. Rationing is a mandate of the government, at the local or federal level. It can be undertaken in response to adverse weather conditions, trade or import/export restrictions, or, in more extreme cases, during a recession or a war. Key Takeaways Rationing is the limiting of goods or services that are in high demand and short supply. It is often undertaken by governments as a way of mitigating the impact of scarcity and dealing with economic challenges. Rationing risks generating black markets and unethical practices as people try to circumvent the austerity mandated by a ration. How Rationing Works Rationing involves the controlled distribution of a scarce good or service. An individual might be allotted a certain amount of food per week, for example, or households might be allowed to water their lawns only on certain days. According to the law of supply and demand, when the available supply of a good or service falls below the quantity demanded, the equilibrium price rises, often to unaffordable levels. Rationing can artificially depress the price by putting constraints on demand. Alternatively, price ceilings can be imposed; they risk the need for rationing in order to maintain a certain level of supply. In any case, rationing generally results in shortages. Rationing Example The 1973 Arab oil embargo caused gasoline supplies in the U.S. to plummet, pushing up prices. The federal government responded by rationing domestic oil supplies to states, which in turn implemented systems to ration their limited stocks. In some states, cars with license plates ending in odd numbers were only allowed to fill up on odd-numbered dates, for example, while cars with even numbered plates were only allowed to fill up on even-numbered days. These responses kept gas prices from spiking further but led to long lines. Faced with the choice of allowing the prices of basic necessities to rise inexorably, or imposing rations, governments typically choose the latter; policymakers in such circumstances must choose among policies that are all difficult and risk some negative impact. Special Considerations Classical economic theory suggests that when demand exceeds supply, prices rise, and high prices, in turn, curtail demand and encourage new entrants to the market, increasing supply and bringing prices back down to reasonable levels. If the reality were this simple, rationing would be both counterproductivebecause it creates shortagesand unnecessary, since the market will act to re-stabilize itself. The problem is that for some goods and servicesfood, fuel, and medical caredemand is inelastic; that is, it does not fall in proportion to increases in price. Moreover, the entry of new suppliers to rebalance markets may not be possible if the shortage is the result of a crop failure, war, natural disaster, siege, or embargo. While not ideal, rationing is often undertaken by governments that would otherwise be facing an even bigger economic crisis. Rationing to Combat Shortages Many capitalist economies have temporarily resorted to rationing in order to cope with wartime or disaster-related shortages: the U.S. and Britain issued ration books during World War II, for example, limiting the quantities of tires, gasoline, sugar, meat, butter, and other goods that could be purchased. In communist countries, by contrast, rationing was in many cases a permanent or semi-permanent feature of daily life. In Cuba in 2019, a ration book entitled an individual to small amounts of rice, beans, eggs, sugar, coffee, and cooking oil for the equivalent of a few cents in the United States. Since that is not enough to survive, Cubans must purchase additional supplies on the open market, where the price of rice is around 20 times higher. Additionally, there are limits on the number of higher-quality items Cubans can purchase on the open market, such as chicken. Cuba has implemented rationing as a way of mitigating the impact of an economic crisis; citizens are entitled to small amounts of basic food for almost no charge, while everything else is pricey and supplies are limited. Risks of Rationing Rationing provides governments with a way to constrain demand, regulate supply, and cap prices, but it does not totally neutralize the laws of supply and demand. Black markets often spring up when rationing is in effect. These allow people to trade rationed goods they may not want for ones they do. Black markets also allow people to sell goods and services for prices that are more in line with demand, undermining the intent of rationing and price controls, but sometimes alleviating shortages. What Is a Eurobond?log into springbok casino A Eurobond is a debt instrument that's denominated in a currency other than the home currency of the country or market in which it is issued. Eurobonds are frequently grouped together by the currency in which they are denominated, such as eurodollar or Euro-yen bonds. Since Eurobonds are issued in an external currency, they're often called external bonds. Eurobonds are important because they help organizations raise capital while having the flexibility to issue them in another currency. Issuance of Eurobonds is usually handled by an international syndicate of financial institutions on behalf of the borrower, one of which may underwrite the bond, thus guaranteeing the purchase of the entire issue. Key Takeaways A Eurobond is a debt instrument that's denominated in a currency other than the home currency of the country or market in which it is issued. Eurobonds are important because they help organizations raise capital while having the flexibility to issue them in another currency. Eurobond refers only to the fact the bond is issued outside of the borders of the currency's home country; it doesn't mean the bond was issued in Europe. What are Eurobonds? Understanding Eurobonds 1:03 The popularity of Eurobonds as a financing tool reflects their high degree of flexibility as they offer issuers the ability to choose the country of issuance based on the regulatory landscape, interest rates, and depth of the market. They are also attractive to investors because they usually have small par values or face values providing a low-cost investment. Eurobonds also have high liquidity, meaning they can be bought and sold easily. The term Eurobond refers only to the fact the bond is issued outside of the borders of the currency's home country; it does not mean the bond was issued in Europe or denominated in the euro currency. For example, a company can issue a Eurobond denominated in U.S. dollars in Japan. Background The first Eurobond was issued in 1963 by Autostrade, the company that ran Italy's national railroads. It was a $15 million eurodollar bond designed by bankers in London, issued at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and paid in Luxembourg to reduce taxes. It provided European investors with a safe, dollar-denominated investment. Issuers run the gamut from multinational corporations to sovereign governments and supranational organizations. The size of a single bond issuance can be well over a billion dollars, and maturities are between five and 30 years, although the largest portion has a maturity of fewer than 10 years. Eurobonds are especially attractive to issuers based in countries that do not have a large capital market while offering diversification to investors. Delivery The earliest Eurobonds were physically delivered to investors. They are issued electronically through a range of services, including the Depository Trust Company (DTC) in the United States and the Certificateless Registry for Electronic Share Transfer (CREST) in the United Kingdom. Eurobonds are usually issued in bearer form, which makes it easier for investors to avoid regulations and taxes. Bearer form means the bond isn't registered and as a result, there's no record of ownership. Instead, physical possession of the bond is the only evidence of ownership. Market Size The global bond market totals over $100 trillion in outstanding debt. The fact many Eurobonds are unregistered, and trade-in bearer form makes definitive numbers for the sector impossible to obtain, but it is likely they account for about 30% of the total. A growing portion of Eurobond issuance is from emerging market nations, with both governments and companies seeking deeper and more developed markets in which to borrow. On January 9, 2015, online gambling portal ThePOGG.com received a complaint from user with the screen name jcc1, saying that the 2 Ways Royal video pokergame offered by Skybooks online casino featured results that could not be possibly featured in a game of this kind, in case it is operating in a fair manner. The full account can be read at http://thepogg.com/complaint/skybook-non-random-casino/ The player in question stated that no 3 of a Kind or a better hand occurredafter 560 hands played at Skybook. Statistically speaking, 3 of a Kind is supposed to occur every 14 hands, which suggests that the game featured by the aforementioned online casino might not be operating properly. Here it is important to note that Skybook is among the online operators that use gaming software developed by Panama-based company Amigotechs. Its customers also include online casino brands such as BogartCasino, BetTrojan, PlayMe247, etc. Having developed 2 Ways Royal means that Amigotechs is probably the one to be held responsible in case the game proves to be not a fairly operating one. Bearing in mind jcc1s complaint as well as previous accounts suggesting that the developer is providing its customers with gaming software that might be favoring only the casinos and not the players, ThePOGG.com compiled a thorough report on the matter, the full text of which is available at http://thepogg.com/skybook-cheating-video-poker-amigotechs-software/ The gaming portals team concluded that the probability for a player not to receive 3 of a Kind or a better hand over 560 hands played is 1 in 1.8810^28. However, ThePOGG.com pointed out that all hands or at least, almost all of them, should be played optimally. After carefully reviewing jcc1s hands, ThePOGG team found out that all hands except for 4 were indeed played in a proper manner. In other words, the 2 Ways Royal game could not possibly be functioning as it should. The gaming portal also researched the so-called Double-Up feature used by the player. It, too, turned out to be functioning solely in favor of the casino. On April 2, ThePOGG team informed Skybook about the issue. Four days later, the online casino replied that the player will be contacted and refunded as soon as possible. As of today, jcc1 has still not been paid the wrongfully incurred money losses amounting to $7,175. Furthermore, it seems that Skybook notified Amigotechs about the matter on April 6. The gaming developer contacted ThePOGG team immediately after. Yet, according to the gaming portal, Amigotechs has not offered a solution to the problem since then, despite the ongoing correspondence between the two parties, which can be read at http://thepogg.com/conversations-with-amigotechs/ *CasinoNewsDaily offers Amigotechs a right of reply to the allegations. What Is a Fallen Angel?embassy suites niagara falls to fallsview casino A fallen angel, in the investing world, is a bond that was initially given an investment-grade rating but has since been reduced to junk bond status. The downgrade is caused by a deterioration in the financial condition of the issuer. The term is also sometimes used to describe a stock that has fallen precipitously from its all-time highs. Fallen Angel Explained Fallen angel bonds have been downgraded by one of the major rating services, which include Standard & Poors, Fitch, and Moodys Investors Service. They may be corporate, municipal, or sovereign debt. Key Takeaways A fallen angel is a bond that has been reduced to junk status because its issuer has fallen into financial trouble. Its bonds pay higher returns than investment-quality bonds but are riskier. Some bond funds and ETFs focus on fallen angels. The primary reason for a downgrade is a decline in revenues, which jeopardizes the ability of the issuers to pay the interest due on their bonds. If the declining revenues are combined with increasing levels of debt, the potential for a downgrade increases dramatically. Fallen angel securities are often attractive to contrarian investors seeking to capitalize on the potential for a company to recover from a temporary setback. Under these circumstances, the downgrade process usually starts with the company's debt being placed on a negative credit watch. That alone forces many portfolio managers to sell their positions, as their governing rules may forbid holding them. Junk Status Drives Selling The actual downgrade to junk status drives more selling pressure, particularly from funds that are restricted to holding investment-grade debt exclusively. As a result, fallen angel bonds can present value within the high-yield category but only if the issuer appears to have a reasonable chance of recovering from the conditions that caused the downgrade. Fallen Angels Funds There are even fallen angel bond funds for investors who spot opportunity at a fire sale. The VanEck Vectors Fallen Angel High-Yield Bond ETF invests only in bonds that have been downgraded. As of September 2021, its holdings included bonds from Sprint Capital Corp., Vodafone Group PLC, and Freeport McMoran, among others. There also is the iShares Fallen Angels USD Bond ETF which, as its name suggests, invests only in dollar-denominated fallen angels. The Risks of Investing in Fallen Angels An oil company that has reported sustained losses over several quarters due to falling oil prices may see its investment-grade bonds downgraded to junk status due to the company's increased risk of default. As a result of the downgrade, the prices of the companys bonds will decline and its yields will increase. That makes them attractive to contrarian investors who see low oil prices as a temporary condition. Municipal bonds from troubled cities with declining tax revenues are in danger of being downgraded. Some fallen angels don't come back. For example, a company will experience declining revenues if a better product than theirs appears on the market. If the company fails to innovate, it won't come back. The progression from VCR tapes to DVDs to streaming video is an example. Municipal and sovereign debt issuers may also see their investment-grade bonds downgraded to junk status due to a combination of stagnant or declining tax revenues and increasing levels of debt. These conditions can create a downward spiral toward default as debt repayments eat into declining revenues and yet more bonds are issued to cover the shortfall. Sooner or later, that municipal or national government is going to miss a payment. What Is a Notice of Default?biggest slot machine jackpot ever The term notice of default refers to a public notice filed with a court that states that the borrower of a mortgage is in default on a loan. The lender may file a notice of default when a mortgagor falls behind on their mortgage payments. Information on notices of default normally includes the borrower and lender's name and address, the legal address of the property, the nature of the default, as well as other pertinent details. A notice of default is often considered the first step toward foreclosure. Key Takeaway A notice of default is a public notice filed with a court that states that a mortgagor is in default. It is typically the final action lenders take before activating the lien and seizing the collateral for foreclosure. The notice must include details such as the borrower and lender's name and address, the property address, and the nature of the default. How Notices of Default Work A notice of default is a serious action taken by a lender. It notifies a borrower that their delinquent mortgage payments have breached the limit as outlined in their mortgage loan contract. Lenders outline the number of delinquent payments allowed in a mortgage contract before default action is taken. Most contracts generally allow up to 180 days of missed payments and delinquencies before any action is taken to file a notice of default. A notice of default is typically the final action lenders take before activating the lien and seizing the collateral for foreclosure. A notice of default is usually filed with the state court in which the lien is recorded followed by a hearing to activate the perfected lien recorded with the mortgage closing. Some cases may allow time for the borrower to negotiate by potentially paying delinquent debt or suggesting a settlement. If the case proceeds to the approval of the perfected property lien, the lender then notifies the borrower that the lien is activated. With an activated lien and a court order for property seizure, the lender can take legal action asking the borrower to vacate the property. All notices of default contain relevant information pertaining to the borrower, lender, and the property. These details include but aren't limited to: The name and address of the borrower The name and address of the lender The legal address of the property Full details on the nature of the default What action is required to cure the default The deadline and the intentions of the lender if the deadline is passed without a cure Special Considerations If a borrower has several delinquent payments, they are at risk of default on a mortgage loan. This also poses the risk of lost collateral. When this happens, the lender may file a notice of default. While this notice may lead to foreclosure, that isn't always the case, The lender may simply be taking this step as protocol, and be willing to work with the borrower to bring the account up to date. Filing the notice may also include a negotiation grace period before further action is taken. While some lenders use notices of default as the final step before foreclosure, others use it as a way to work with borrowers to bring the mortgage up to date. A notice of default and subsequent foreclosure actions are documented and reported to credit bureaus. Thus, all foreclosure proceedings and actions can have serious repercussions on a borrowers credit score. This will also reduce the borrowers ability to obtain a mortgage or any type of debt in the future. Some lenders may choose to serve the delinquent borrower with a notice of intention rather than a notice of default levy or they may provide warnings to the borrower which gives them time to negotiate. data science [ dey-tuh-sahy-uhns,silver oak casino no deposit 2022 dat-uh ]/ de t sa ns, dt / New Word List Save This Word! 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Sleazy Billionaires Double Life Featured Beach Parties With Stephen Hawking|M.L. Nestel|January 8, 2015|DAILY BEAST Sleazy Billionaires Double Life Featured Beach Parties With Stephen Hawking|M.L. Nestel|January 8, 2015|DAILY BEAST We talked about the science the whole time the other day, Krauss told The Daily Beast in a phone interview. Sleazy Billionaires Double Life Featured Beach Parties With Stephen Hawking|M.L. Nestel|January 8, 2015|DAILY BEAST Therefore, it is not possible for any F-35 schedule to include a video data link or infrared pointer at this point. Pentagon Misfires in Stealth Jet Scandal|Dave Majumdar|January 8, 2015|DAILY BEAST Pentagon Misfires in Stealth Jet Scandal|Dave Majumdar|January 8, 2015|DAILY BEAST As the weeks wore on, the pretence of practical teaching was quietly dropped, and we crammed our science out of the text-book. The Salvaging Of Civilisation|H. G. (Herbert George) Wells The Salvaging Of Civilisation|H. G. (Herbert George) Wells I cannot see in science, nor in experience, nor in history any signs of such a God, nor of such intervention. God and my Neighbour|Robert Blatchford God and my Neighbour|Robert Blatchford Science teaches that man existed during the glacial epoch, which was at least fifty thousand years before the Christian era. God and my Neighbour|Robert Blatchford God and my Neighbour|Robert Blatchford Probably they do not devote quite as much time to it as our caballeros, who are quite adepts in the science. Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine, Volume 60, No. 372, October 1846|Various Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine, Volume 60, No. 372, October 1846|Various But in reality this paradox of value is the most fundamental proposition in economic science. The Unsolved Riddle of Social Justice|Stephen Leacock QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Question data scienceFirst recorded in 19952000data pen, data point, data processing, data protection, datary, data science, data scientist, data set, data structure, dataveillance, data warehouseDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 What Is a Syndicate?pokie mate bonus bookmaker website A syndicate is a temporary alliance of businesses that joins together to manage a large transaction, which would be difficult, or impossible, to effect individually. Syndication makes it easy for companies to pool their resources and share risks, as when a group of investment banks works together to bring a new issue of securities to the market. There are different types of syndicates, such as underwriting syndicates, banking syndicates, and insurance syndicates. Syndicate Understanding Syndicates Types of Syndicates 1:40 Syndicates are usually comprised of companies in the same industry. For example, two pharmaceutical companies may combine their research and development (R&D) teams by creating a syndicate to develop a new drug. Or several real estate companies may form a syndicate to manage a large development. Sometimes banks will form a syndicate to loan a very large amount of money to a single party. Companies also may form a syndicate to manage a specific business venture if the opportunity promises an attractive rate of return (RoR). Some projects are so large that no single company can have all of the expertise needed to do the job efficiently. This is often the case with large construction projects such as building a stadium, highway, bridge, or railroad. In these situations, companies may form a syndicate so that each firm may apply their specific expertise to the project. For tax purposes, syndicates are generally considered as partnerships or corporations. In financial services, the underwriting syndicate plays a critically important role in bringing new securities to the market. Managing Risk The amount of risk assumed by each syndicate member can vary. For instance, in an undivided account of an underwriting syndicate, each member is responsible for selling an allotted amount of stock along with any excess shares not sold by the syndicate as a whole. In this way, an individual syndicate member may need to sell far more securities than they are allotted; other types of syndicates, however, may limit the degree of risk for each member. Underwriting Syndicates In an initial public offering (IPO), a number of investment banks and broker-dealers form a syndicate to sell new offerings of stock or debt securities to investors. The underwriting group shares the risk and aids in the successful distribution of the new securities issue. The lead underwriter for the new issue initiates and manages the underwriting syndicate. The syndicate is compensated by the underwriting spreadwhich is the difference between the price paid to the issuer and the price received from investors and other broker-dealers. An underwriting syndicate usually breaks up 30 days after the sale is complete, or if the securities cannot be sold at the offering price. There are other types of syndicates, however, that function jointly, but which are not temporary. Key Takeaways A syndicate is a temporary alliance formed by professionals to handle a large transaction that would be impossible to execute individually. By forming a syndicate, members can pool their resources together, and share in both the risks and the potential for attractive returns. In general, businesses in the same industry join to form syndicates. Syndicates and Insurance Risk Syndicates are often used in the insurance industry to spread insurance risk among several firms. Insurance underwriters evaluate the risk of insuring a specific person or a particular asset and use that evaluation to price an insurance policy. For example, an underwriter in the corporate health insurance field may evaluate the potential health risks of a company's employees. The underwriters actuary would then use statistics to assess the risk of illness for each employee in the companys workforce. If the potential risk of providing health insurance is too great for a single insurance firm, that company may form a syndicate to share the insurance risk. The NYS Gaming Commission was expected to announce its decision on MGMs Yonkers Raceway and Empire City Casino acquisition during todays canceled meeting The New York State Gaming Commission announced late last night that it has decided to cancel its Thursday meeting. Among other things, state gaming regulators were expected to discuss today MGM Resorts Internationals proposal to acquire Yonkers Raceway and Empire City Casinoin Yonkers, New York. The Gaming Commission said in a late Wednesday Facebook post that its meeting has been postponed until further notice.It did not provide further detail on why it has decided to cancel it. In an email to local news outlet The Journal News, Commission spokesman Brad Maione said that the decision was due to issues with a quorum of members. It is still unknown when the meeting will take place. As mentioned earlier, the proposed acquisition of the Yonkers Raceway racetrack and the nearby Empire City Casino was on the Gaming Commissions Thursday agenda. Las Vegas gaming and hospitality company MGM Resorts International announced last May its intention to buy the two facilities as part of its expansion plans. MGM said it would pay $850-million for the racetrack and the nearby casino. The casino company needs approval from the NYS Gaming Commissionin order to be able to complete the deal. That approval was anticipated to be granted at todays meeting. Yonkers Raceway first opened doors in 1899. The racetrack has been owned and managed by the Rooney family since 1972. The nearby Empire City Casino currently runs nearly 5,300 video-lottery terminals, but MGM reportedly nurtures hopes to turn that facility into a full-scale casino. MGMs Plan for New York MGM has remained tight-lipped as to what its plans for the racetrack and the nearby gaming facility include. In addition, the Gaming Commission has not released any details of the casino operators application, despite criticism from the New York State Committee on Open Government. Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano said last month that he has met with MGM representatives on a number of occasions since the deal was announced and that he believes the company has plans for a hotel and entertainment venue. The official further noted that while MGM was clearly guarded about its plans for the two facilities, it has promised it has huge plans. Bearing in mind the companys portfolio of properties, it will probably seek a license for a full-scale, Las Vegas-style casino games. However, under New Yorks gambling law, the issuance of such licenses is not set to happen until 2023. In addition, MGM has shown interest to extend its presence in the lucrative US sports betting market, most recently with gambling partnerships with Major League Baseball, the National Basketball Association, and the National Hockey League. A bill calling for the legalization of sports bettingin New York was filed in mid-December and was referred to the Senate Racing, Gaming and Wagering Committee to be discussed during the 2019 legislative session, which is set to convene on January 9. Sen. John Addabbo, the incoming Chairman of the Committee, spearheaded the piece of legislation. Generally speaking, it allows for mobile betting on the states territoryand includes a payout to professional sports leagues. The bill also requires licensed operators to purchase official data from the leagues or third-party partners. With few exceptions, gambling is prohibited in New York. This means that the states current gambling law will have to be amended to allow gambling expansionin order for Sen. Addabbos bill to be able to take effect. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date on the days top casino news stories. Thego wild casino australia plan was to do something illegal, but no one among the two-dozen climate protesters assembled in a courtyard in Midtown Manhattan would tell me exactly what. Extinction Rebellion organizers were coming through the small crowd, asking who was red role, meaning that they were willing to be arrested. Someone else handed out cookies. Protesters soon started slipping off in twos and threes, heading to the site of the actual protest, part of a weeklong series of actions planned around the 10th anniversary of Hurricane Sandy in late October. Eric Arnum, an organizer from Extinction Rebellion NYC, remained behind; he told me they were acting as decoys to keep nearby police from following the other demonstrators. Theyre waiting for us to make our move, but weve already made our move, he said, gesturing to a group of nearby police detectives. Put this in your article, he added. We play a giant game of cops and robbers with the best police force in the world, and we always win. Such acts of civil disobediencelong a part of environmental activismsurged in popularity toward the end of 2019 thanks to Greta Thunberg and the school strikes. That movement, especially powerful in the U.K., largely fizzled in early 2020 due to pandemic lockdowns. But now, the tactics of what climate activists call civil resistance are back, garnering more attention, and controversy, than ever. Some of those protests over the past year have targeted polluting industriesactivists in the U.K., for instance, blocked access to oil terminals this spring, and this fall protesters in Germany glued themselves to the floor in a BMW showroom. Other actions have aimed to create maximum public disruption in the name of alerting people to the danger of climate change, as was seen with hellish traffic jams caused by months-long campaigns to block roadways in Germany and the U.K. Another tactic has involved protesters targeting museum art pieces, often by attempting to glue themselves to the worksa strategy virtually guaranteed to generate widespread media attention. The trend in Europe exploded to international notoriety last month, when protesters threw tomato soup on one of the worlds most iconic paintings, Sunflowersby Vincent Van Gogh, in Londons National Portrait Gallery, before gluing their hands to the museums walls. Copycat protests quickly sprung up around Europe. In Germany, activists threw mashed potatoes over Grainstacksby Claude Monet, and in Italy, protesters threw pea soup on Van Goghs The Sowernone of the paintings, protected by glass, were damaged. Just Stop Oil climate activists glue themselves to a Van Gogh painting at the Courtauld Gallery on June 30 2022 in London, U.K. The Just Stop Oil activists call for the government to end new oil and gas and for art institutions to join them in civil resistance. Kristian Buus/In PicturesGetty Images No one person is directing these actions. The organizations involved, Germanys Letzte Generation (Last Generation) and Britains Just Stop Oil, among others, operate independently from one another. But perhaps the closest thing to a global mastermind is a 36-year-old clinical psychologist named Margaret Klein Salamon, living in Brooklyn, NY. Salamon is the executive director of a group called The Climate Emergency Fund (CEF), which distributes money from wealthy donors to the climate movements radical vanguard around the world, including the activists I met in Manhattan. Salamon says that CEF doesnt actually fund anything illegal; its grants, generally ranging from $35,000 to $80,000, usually go to help new groups hire coordination staff. Theres a lot of funders out there looking for how to make an impact on climate, she says, walking her dogs in Prospect Park. Even movements that utilize the passion and dedication of volunteers, they still need money. Many donors come from the ranks of the young and wealthyinheritors getting access to trust funds for the first timeand Salamon sometimes takes them on walks like this to try to alleviate concerns around her groups activities. Institutional philanthropy can get a little squeamish around direct action and disruptive protests, she says. The pitch goes something like this: Society is sleepwalking into a climate catastrophe, a situation best explained by a famous social psychology experiment Salamon often references, in which a room slowly fills with smoke, but the participants dont do anything about it, because no one else in the room seems alarmed. Disruptive protests are like a fire alarm to shake us awake, Salamon says. And refusing to play by the rules allows protesters to punch above their weight. Salamon, for instance, partially credits protesters who followed West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin to his car and protested on kayaks outside his houseboat last year for his ultimate decision to vote for the Inflation Reduction Act, the strongest climate legislation ever passed by Congress. The approximately $150,000 that CEF spent funding those groups, she says, provided a substantial return on investment. My point is this approach gets results, she says. Its not about liking their style, or even agreeing with everything that they do. Its an understanding that this is absolutely needed. Playing by the rules, going step by step through normalcy, were walking off a cliff. Salamon has been touting some form of this argument for close to a decade. She co-founded a group called The Climate Mobilization in 2014 with the goal of launching what she called a WWII-scale climate mobilization, and was instrumental in seeding the term climate emergency into the 2016 Democratic Party platform. She helped lay out the initial vision for CEF in 2019 with oil heiress Aileen Getty. Getty co-founded the group with fellow donors Trevor Neilson, a renewable fuels entrepreneur, and Rory Kennedy, a filmmaker and a daughter of former U.S. Senator Robert Kennedy, before Salamon took over as executive director last year. Shes raised about $10 million since thenincluding $4 million from Dont Look Up director Adam McCay this Septemberand distributed $4.5 million so far in 2022. Police arrive on the scene as protestors from Just Stop Oil block the Cromwell road near the Natural History Museum in west London on Oct. 19, 2022 in London, U.K. Guy SmallmanGetty Images Notably, Salamon has never been arrested, unlike many members of the groups CEF funds or has helped to inspire. I think I can help more from the office, she says. Her behind-the-scenes work has been significant, though: Extinction Rebellion, founded in the U.K. in 2018, didnt even have a donate button on its website before Salamon flew to London to help them get organized. Bill Beckler, who helped start New Yorks chapter of Extinction Rebellion in 2018, became involved in climate organizing after a conversation with Salamon four years prior. He describes it as a profound, almost spiritual-level experience, a realization of the scale of impending climate catastrophe. I just felt it in my bones, he says, I turned into a different person. Jeremy Strong, an actor known for his role as Kendall Roy on the HBO drama Succession, describes having a similar feeling after McCay, one of the shows executive producers, introduced him to Salamon in June. Meeting Margaret, one is reminded of the ending of Rilkes poem, Archaic Torso of Apollo, Strong says. For here there is no place that does not see you. You must change your life. Following that meeting, Strong says he was effectively deputized by CEF. I have been actively fundraising and essentially proselytizing every chance I get while in the middle of filming Season 4 of Succession, on which I essentially own a climate change-denying news network, he says. Salamons advocacy is based on an understanding of climate change as an apocalyptic threat that can only be solved by a massive societal mobilization, which she refers to as climate truth. Accepting such a truth, she argues, leaves no room to live normally. Your primary moral responsibility, she writes in an essay titled The Transformative Power of Climate Truth, is to fight for your family, your species and all life on Earth. Much of society is living in denial, Salamon says, so it is the job of activists to convey that sense of alarm missing in media and politicians discussions of climate change. Those ideas and others, Beckler says, have birthed much of the radical climate movement: Theres a lot of other people involved, he says, but these people are getting their influence from her. The Oct. 27 actionin Manhattan, as it turned out, was targeting investment firm BlackRockthough I only figured that out after following the protesters to the companys headquarters on 52nd Street, where they linked arms to block an escalator in a public atrium. One activist dumped a bag of coal on the floor, symbolic of the companys investments in fossil fuels. Hey BlackRock, someone shouted through a megaphone, burn this. Dozens of police soon filed through the atriums revolving doors and, after a cursory message to disperse, began arresting the activists, tapping each on the shoulder to stand up before zip-tying their wrists while BlackRock analysts looked on from a second-floor balcony. After the last protester was led away, custodians moved in with brooms and dustpans. Within 20 minutes, all was as it had been: security guards back in their original places, business people chatting over cardboard takeout boxes. Someone began to play calming, cheerful music at a piano in the middle of the lobby. Most climate protests have a relatively short shelf life in the public consciousnessif they get any media coverage at all. The Van Gogh protest was differentvideos of the incident swiftly racked up millions of views, and sparked a firestorm of debate online. I was not quite prepared for the level of [media attention], I mean it was so surreal, says Phoebe Plummer, one of the participants. We were sitting outside court, and we hadnt had our phones, we hadnt seen anything. And people started coming up and asking us for selfies. Alice Hu, a climate activist with New York Communities for Change, which helped stage the BlackRock protest and is partly funded by CEF, says the whole movement started getting more attention in the days after the soup video went viral. People are asking more thoughtful questions, and theyre thinking about this stuff critically, she says. People become habituated to the soup, as it were, that they live in, says Timothy Morton, an eco philosopher and literature professor at Rice University. Thats the point of [the soup protest], to make everything suddenly uncannydeliberately or not, to stop people and make them see things differently. But not all the attention has been positive. Online, its easy to find calls for Plummer and Anna Holland, the other soup thrower, to be imprisoned, or worse. Some observers have said that the actions risk making all climate activists look silly. British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly called the protesters attention seeking adult-toddlers. Salamon says the criticism is just as wellthe most important thing is to increase the salience of climate change in the minds of voters and politicians. Its not a popularity contest, she says. The action has generated millions of conversations, so its beside the point. Its unclear, though, whether its working. In the aftermath of the soup protests, Michael Mann, a prominent climate scientist, helped design a study in which researchers surveyed over 1,000 people, 46% of which said the protesters actions decreased their support for climate action. They are alienating potential allies in the climate battle, he wrote in TIME. Even the activists themselves have admitted that not all attention-grabbing stunts are necessarily in the best interests of the movement, as in the case of an Oct. 2019 Extinction Rebellion action targeting the London Underground, where furious commuters dragged down and beat a protester who had climbed atop a subway carriage. But in some way, that controversy goes deeper than execution. It has to do with the ideology animating these sorts of protests: that the way to protest climate inaction is not only to target polluters and fossil fuel lobbyists, but also a perceived complacency in the minds of millions of ordinary people. From that perspective, making people angry isnt necessarily a side effect of the activists actionsit may be part of the point. Of course social movements are unpopular, Salamon says. Its a relatively small group of people telling a much larger group that they need to change. A report confirms that Huo Siyan () is the first Chinese female star to receive an invitation from the organizing committee of the 62nd Berlin International Film Festival. Huo will be present on the red carpet at the festivals opening ceremony on February 9. At this moment, Huo is the only Chinese female actress to have been invited by the organizing committee. Top luxury brands including LV, Gucci, Cartier and Tiffany are expected to prepare clothing and jewelry for her to wear on the red carpet. Huos most recent movie Joyful Reunion, (2012) the sequel to Ang Lees movie Eat Drink Man Woman, will be screened during the festival. Other big movie names on the screening list include Zhang Yimous epic war blockbuster The Flowers of War, Tsui Harks 3D Kung Fu flick Flying Swords of the Dragon Gate and Doze Nius urban romance LOVE. The 62nd Berlin International Film Festival will run from February 9-19. By Chen Nan Chinese Films Actress Huo Siyan to Attend BIFFadded by chinatimesonline on View all posts by chinatimesonline BEIJING,el royale casino no deposit bonus Nov. 16 (Xinhua) -- Shanghai beat Jiangsu 23-25, 25-19, 25-16, 21-25, 16-14 in a five-set thriller on Wednesday to remain as the only unbeaten team in Group B of the 2022-23 Chinese women's Volleyball Super League. Wing spiker Zhong Hui got a game-high 27 points and Samantha Bricio contributed 21 for Shanghai, while Jiangsu spiker Tang Xin pocketed 24 points. Jiangsu's five-game winning streak going into the season came to a halt. In the group's last match of the first stop, Shanghai claimed its sixth straight win and went atop the group with 16 points, while Jiangsu stood second with 16 points due to an inferior win-loss record. Also on Wednesday, Guangdong edged Henan 25-14, 21-25, 26-24, 20-25, 15-6, and Fujian eased past Hebei 25-12, 25-12, 25-17. Group A matches scheduled to be played in Jiangmen, south China's Guangdong Province were postponed to December due to COVID-19 concerns. Teams will be re-divided into Group C and D in the second stop, and Group E and F in the third, with top eight teams after three stops to advance into the second phase. In moments of financial uncertainty,rams seahawks money line there arent too many industries which escape unscathed. Historically speaking though, it is those spheres which involve a degree of speculation which seem more immune than most be that the top Fx trading platforms, or leading betting companies. As such, it shouldnt come as the biggest surprise that, in a time of widespread purse-tightening, many gambling operators are hitting the industry headlines courtesy of their expansion plans. BlueBet Enters US Playing Field One of the latest companies to opt for a diversification of markets strategy is the hugely successful Australian sports betting operator, Bluebet. Established in 2015, the ASX-listed company is firmly established down under courtesy of the popular Bluebet online betting site, and has now followed the likes of William Hill and Entain in attempting to claim a slice of the pie in the US. Following a focused Capital-Lite strategy, the company has targeted four states for its initial move into the American market, with Colorado Indiana, Iowa and Louisiana being the jurisdictions selected for the launch of the Clutchbook sportsbook brand. Ready to Roll in Iowa Having achieved significant growth in Q4 of the most recent financial year turnover up 31.3%, gross revenue up 34% and net win up 27.3% - Bluebet have deemed that the time is right to broaden their horizons. Back in June, the company announced that it had signed a 10-year agreement with US giant Caesars entertainment, granting the firm access to the Indiana market. That deal completed the set for Bluebet, with access agreements already in place for Iowa, Colorado and Louisiana. All that remained then was for the company to be granted the relevant regulatory approval to operate in each of the states. August 22 saw that approval granted by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission which granted the mobile sports betting license required to operate in the state. An expected development, but one which was nevertheless greeted with delight by Bluebet Chief Executive Officer, Bill Richmond: We are excited to announce that BlueBet is now officially live in the US after being licenced to operate by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission. We are preparing to take our first bets in Iowa under our ClutchBet brand. This is a huge moment in BlueBets history, and we are thrilled to bring our sportsbook to Iowa sports fans who we are confident will respond well to our mobile-first online offering and differentiated market positioning. What Can US Customers Expect? Given its success in breaking into the hugely competitive Australian betting market, it seems likely that Bluebet are likely to follow a similar strategy in the US. A company with a firm focus on mobile betting, Bluebet built their market share on the foundations of exceptional horse racing coverage and attention-grabbing weekly special offers and promotions. With the US betting public having quickly displayed a marked trend toward those firms which offer bonuses, special deals and incentives, the existing model may not need too much tweaking if it is to prove a smash hit in the hot US market. Category: Casino Blog Mobile gaming has quickly become the most popular form of gaming as a whole,michigan ohio state spread it has been suggested that over half of all gaming done across all platforms takes place on our smartphones. The reasons for this are quite simple - theres no requirement to drop hundreds of dollars on a new platform solely for gaming or the additional costs of buying games which many expect to start increasing in price too - simply click the app or site youd like to play on with a tap, and youre away, and similarly once youre done you simply scroll to close the game until youre ready to go again. But there is a new movement occurring in gaming as a whole through the virtual reality platform, and for many it seems that a new home may be found for it on mobile devices particularly for one specific genre - online casinos. The growth of online casinos as a whole has been quite incredible to many, even recently during the midst of the pandemic these casinos were one of the few sectors to find continued growth where many others were struggling to stay afloat.One of the boons that have certainly helped this growth can be found in social media as a changing audience has been largely attracted through the social and sharing aspect of gaming, and online casinos have been able to capture this audience for the same reason.This very same reason many expect online casinos to make the shift to virtual reality in a very successful way as it can deliver an experience that many users are looking for. (Image from teks.co.in) Perhaps the biggest factor however as mentioned above has been within the changing audience attracted to these types of games. No longer are young teen males the primary demographic for mobile gaming as primarily women over the age of 34 have taken their place. The disposable income provides a base for these games to grow and the older audience are also more likely to be attracted to these online casino games - even more so now during the pandemic, with the possibility of winning real money through a familiar experience as offline locations remain closed. These games for US players come in different forms with some of the bigger online casino names offering big sign up bonuses and big jackpots to win too, and many are expecting to retain many of the new users who typically would prefer the real experience to an online alternative, but with VR users may be able to get the best of both worlds. There are popular examples of services already offered in VR that provide the social atmosphere that has attracted a growing number of players in games such as VR Chat, and is largely in part what is being attributed to the success of the VR platform for online casinos as a real casino environment can be created, from tables to dealers to the surrounding scenery that allow players to not only gain the experience without leaving their home, but to also have a very social experience with other players also doing the same, talking in real time and having their avatar mimic movements in real time too bringing a previously rigid online experience to something very real and changing based on the players involved. There are challenges to overcome, however, and as great as VR is for many platforms it is still very much in the early stages of development - the hardware costs are a little higher than many users would pay for as the top end can reach into the hundreds of dollars and the hardware for our devices themselves may still be a little behind and unable to really project these games in the way the developers would like - there are live examples that offer some of the favourite games through poker, slots and others however that show the tech is starting to get there. (Image from VRfocus.com) With a renewed and very strong market moving forward and the capital to really push the tech, mobile casinos may certainly be on the forefront of the virtual reality movement in gaming particularly on mobile devices - the next stage will be to educate the audience on all of the benefits that can come with the change and how investing in VR can really bolster their gaming experience, as well as the social benefits that may come along with a more permanent shift into a virtual reality gaming environment - VR is certainly the future of gaming, as this early crossover could influence many platforms to come. Category: Casino Blog There are a lot of homophones in English that confuse both native and ESL writers alike. The two words disc vs. disk, however, arent exactly homophones. They are the same word, butoddly enoughthey are used to refer to different things. And there isnt any universal consensus on which spelling is used for what. What is the Difference Between Disc and Disk? The words disc and disk both have the same meaning. If you go to a dictionary and look up either word, you will see some variation of this definition, A thin, flat, circular object or plate; a round, flattened object. But, despite having the same meaning, disc and disk are used to refer to different things. In this post, I want to outline which word refers to what as things currently stand. Should you use disc or disk in your sentence? When to Use Disc Disc Spelling in American English In American English, disc (with a c) is the less common variant and is used only when referring to five things: A phonograph record. An optical disc, such as an audio compact disc or a videodisc. A tool found on a plow, disc harrow. A component of a brake system, disc brakes. Disc jockey. In American English, disk is much more common and is the preferred spelling for all general references to thin circular objects (see below). Disc Spelling in British English While diskis the preferred choice in American English (with discreferring to just a select few things), the opposite has been true in British English for some time. For most of the 20th century, there has been a marked preference for discin British English, while diskhas been preferred in America. This British preference has been lessened some, however, in the last 20 years or so with the near universal spelling diskto refer to computer storage devices (see below). Still, discremains the standard choice for all general references to thin circular objects in British English, as well as the five uses found above in American English and few other things like celestial discs, spinal discs, etc. When to Use Disk Disk Spelling in American English As I mentioned above, disk(with a k) is the more usual spelling in American English. It is used with things like flying disk, celestial disks, spinal disks,and most commonly, computer disks. Do you want to go out and throw some disk? I slipped a disk in my back; I cant play today. I think the disk drive in my computer is about to crash. This is also in accordance with both APand Chicago Styles, both of which call for disc to be used to refer to CDs, brakes, disc jockeys, etc., and for diskto be used to refer to most everything else. Disk Spelling in British English In 1896, the Oxford English Dictionaryrecognized disk as the earlier and better spelling of the two. Unfortunately for them, this was not the variant that became popular among British speakers and writers. Disc(with a c) remains the standard choice in British English, but disk(with a k) is used to refer to all things computer related. Disk drive. Floppy disk. Hard disk. Magnetic disk. Gaining Popularity of Disk over Disc Since the advent and widespread use of computers, diskhas been gaining popularity in places like Great Britain and increasing its command in places like America. It is likely that it will someday overtake and supplant discis all uses in British and American English. To show how the computer industry has changed the frequency of this spelling, look at the below chart. There is massive spike in the use of diskduring the build up and widespread commercialization of computers. Here is the chart focusing just on American English. As you can see, diskwas used much more frequently and became even more frequently used after about 1980. If we focus on British English, the chart is very interesting, indeed. Again, before the widespread use of computers, disc was with much greater frequency among British writers, but since 1980, diskhas increased its share overwhelmingly. These charts, of course, simply measure the total frequency of each spelling, without any consideration given to meaning or context. You might look at the British English chart and say, They are used to the same extent, why differentiate them? The spelling diskmay be used at the same frequency as disc, but that is most likely because people are taking about computers much more than they are their cars brakes. The usage differences I outlined above still hold true. The charts are just helpful to visualize trends. Summary The difference between disk vs. disc has geographical and dialectical considerations. Making the correct choice for your audience, disk or disc, is important for your writing. Disk is preferred in American English, with a few exceptions. Disc is preferred in British English, with the exception of computer related references. What is los mejores casinos onlineAllowance For Credit Losses? Allowance for credit losses is an estimate of the debt that a company is unlikely to recover. It is taken from the perspective of the selling company that extends credit to its buyers. How Allowance For Credit Losses Works Most businesses conduct transactions with each other on credit, meaning they do not have to pay cash at the time purchases from another entity is made. The credit results in an accounts receivable on the balance sheet of the selling company. Accounts receivable is recorded as a current asset and describes the amount that is due for providing services or goods. One of the main risks of selling goods on credit is that not all payments are guaranteed to be collected. To factor in this possibility, companies create an allowance for credit losses entry. Since current assets by definition are expected to turn to cash within one year, a company's balance sheet could overstate its accounts receivable and, therefore, its working capital and shareholders' equity if any part of its accounts receivable is not collectible. The allowance for credit losses is an accounting technique that enables companies to take these anticipated losses into consideration in its financial statements to limit overstatement of potential income. To avoid an account overstatement, a company will estimate how much of its receivables it expects will be delinquent. Key Takeaways Allowance for credit losses is an estimate of the debt that a company is unlikely to recover. It is taken from the perspective of the selling company that extends credit to its buyers. This accounting technique allows companies to take anticipated losses into consideration in its financial statements to limit overstatement of potential income. Recording Allowance For Credit Losses Since a certain amount of credit losses can be anticipated, these expected losses are included in a balance sheet contra asset account. The line item can be called allowance for credit losses, allowance for uncollectible accounts, allowance for doubtful accounts, allowance for losses on customer financing receivables or provision for doubtful accounts. Any increase to allowance for credit losses is also recorded in the income statement as bad debt expenses. Companies may have a bad debt reserve to offset credit losses. Allowance For Credit Losses Method A company can use statistical modeling such as default probability to determine its expected losses to delinquent and bad debt. The statistical calculations can utilize historical data from the business as well as from the industry as a whole. Companies regularly make changes to the allowance for credit losses entry to correlate with the current statistical modeling allowances. When accounting for allowance for credit losses, a company does not need to know specifically which customer will not pay, nor does it need to know the exact amount. An approximate amount that is uncollectible can be used. In its 10-Kfiling covering the 2018 fiscal year, Boeing Co. (BA) explained how it calculates its allowance for credit losses. The manufacturer of airplanes, rotorcraft, rockets, satellites, and missiles said it reviews customer credit ratings, published historical credit default rates for different rating categories, and multiple third-party aircraft value publications every quarter to determine which customers might not pay up what they owe. The company also disclosed that there are no guarantees that its estimates will be correct, adding that actual losses on receivables could easily be higher or lower than forecast. In 2018, Boeings allowance as a percentage of gross customer financing was 0.31%. Source: U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Example of Allowance For Credit Losses Say a company has $40,000 worth of accounts receivable on September 30. It estimates 10% of its accounts receivable will be uncollected and proceeds to create a credit entry of 10% x $40,000 = $4,000 in allowance for credit losses. In order to adjust this balance, a debit entry will be made in the bad debts expense for $4,000. Even though the accounts receivable is not due in September, the company still has to report credit losses of $4,000 as bad debts expense in its income statement for the month. If accounts receivable is $40,000 and allowance for credit losses is $4,000, the net amount reported on the balance sheet will be $36,000. This same process is used by banks to report uncollectible payments from borrowers who default on their loan payments. Who doesnt love playing roulette?thabet fun breath of the wild 2 The gleam of the chrome on the wheel, the bold colors of its individual segments and the frantic thrum of the ball as it spins at speed searching for its final destination all contribute to a casino experience quite like any other. Its no wonder that roulette tables are invariably the busiest and most boisterous in any establishment. Image: Pixabay While the excitement of playing roulette is reward in itself, winning is, of course, another huge pull. When it comes to games of chance and skill, roulette sits very firmly towards the former end of the scale but that doesnt mean its 100% down to luck. By following these tips and putting in place a strategy for success, you can maximize your returns every time you spin the wheel. Practice makes better It doesnt matter whether youre playing chess or Chinese checkers practice will always improve your game and the same is true when it comes to roulette. Its a good idea to find sites where you can play roulette for free before opening your wallet, since this will give you a chance to familiarize yourself with the rules of the game (especially as there a number of different variants) and hold your nerve better when it comes to the real deal. Choose your table wisely This tip applies mainly to brick-and-mortar casinos, but its always sensible to take stock of the situation before you lay down your chips. Approach a table and watch a few spins of the wheel before taking a seat, since this will allow you to observe the other players. In particular, steer clear of any table where gamblers are laying down huge bets, talking loudly between spins or behaving in an aggressive manner. Those kinds of distractions will only disrupt your concentration and you need to be 100% focused on the task at hand. Budget well The number one rule for any casino game is to only ever stake what you can afford to lose. Many people make the mistake of putting down more cash to recoup their losses, only to find themselves bankrupt altogether. This is even easier to do online, since using credit and debit cards to pay for onscreen activities can feel less like spending real money but it very much is. The aforementioned free-play can be helpful in allowing you to master good money management, which is key to the success of any roulette player. Go European Speaking about game variants, the two main schools of roulette are American and European. The main difference between the two is that the former features two green 0 segments, while the latter only one. Surprisingly, both games offer the same odds for selecting a single number (35-1), but since there is an additional segment on the American wheel, your chances of getting it right are smaller (2.6% compared to 2.7%). While that might sound like a negligible difference, every little helps so choose a European table every time. Even though its impossible to guarantee victory every time you bet on roulette, you can maximize the odds in your favor by following these handy tips. Category: Casino Blog Online sports wagering in New York state exploded during the inaugural week of National Football League games. Themega moolah pokies amount won by operators on sports betting during the week ending September 10 vaulted 74 percent, reaching a pre-tax $56.6 million from a handle of $416 million. The increase in money wagered was 26 percent. The amount held by online-sports-betting (OSB) providers was at a 13.6 percent clip, according to J.P. Morgan analyst Joseph Greff. Since the New York Gaming Commission does not include Monday in its calculations, the initial Monday Night Football contest between the Buffalo Bills and New York Jets wasnt figured into the outcome. FanDuel dominated the Empire State market in both handle ($195.5 million) and revenue ($32.3 million). DraftKings saw $138.9 million in wagers and $16.4 million in winnings. While both of companies experienced dramatic, and sometimes exponential, increases in both handle and revenue, Caesars Sportsbook was comparatively flat compared to Week One of 2022, its handle $40.9 million and its revenue $4.4 million. Rounding out the top four was BetMGM with a $2.3 million win on a handle of $22.1 million. Other companies participating were Fanatics (formerly Points Bet) with winnings of $500,000 and BetRIvers ($900,000). Resorts World reported no revenue on $1.3 million in handle and BallyBet realized neither handle nor win. WynnBET saw $2.5 million in wagers, but lost $200,000. Promotional outlays were not reported. The winnings of New York state online operators are taxed at 51 percent. Presque Isle Downs & Casino in Erie is set to become the latest addition to Pennsylvanias retail betting space as the property is preparing to conduct an obligatory two-day testing period of its wagering operations. The process will be overseen by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. Presque Isle will hold a limited opening of its sportsbook on Wednesday, July 24 from 4 pm local time till midnight and on Thursday, July 25 from 2 pm till midnight. If the state gambling regulator deems the testing period successful, the betting facility will be able to open doors permanently on Friday, July 26at noon. Presque Isle received the green light to conduct retail betting from the PGCB back in February. However, unlike other Pennsylvania casinos which went live with sports gambling shortly after they secured regulatory approval, the Erie property took a little more time to build its betting facility. Similarly to other casinos owned by Churchill Downs Inc., Presque Isle will operate a BetAmerica-branded sportsbook. Churchill Downs took over the Erie casino early this year. It purchased it from Nevada-based gaming and hospitality operator Eldorado Resorts in a $180 million deal. Presque Isle plans to host a grand opening ceremonyfor its sportsbook at 4 pm on August 8, which is when the NFL pre-season games are set to kick off. The BetAmerica Sportsbook Presque Isles sportsbook occupies 1,275-square-foot area at the casino, which previously featured slot machines. Those were relocated to other parts of the gambling venue. As mentioned earlier, the betting facility is set to operate under the BetAmerica brand. It is also important to note that sports betting technology at the sportsbook will be powered by European provider SBTech. Aside from the wagering facility, Presque Isle is also set to feature 50 self-betting kiosks, with half of those being located inside the actual sportsbook. The other half has been installed in other areas of the gaming floor. The sports betting facility will be smoke-free. There are sports-betting kiosks located at the casinos Center Bar and Bar 90 for the smoking portion of Presque Isles bettors. The property has also previously revealed plans for online and mobile betting, but those will become available at a later stage. Presque Isle is adding retail betting as Pennsylvanias gambling industry has hit its latest milestone the recent start of regulated online casino gambling. Three casinos went live with their digital operations last week and more are to launch their own online casinos at a later stage. Commenting of their upcoming launch of their sportsbook, Presque Isle General Manager Kevin OSullivan said that he thinks its probably gonna be the most exciting place to be, when youre talking sports its going to be right here in this room.Mr. OSullivan, who has a wealth of experience in the global gaming industry having previously held a position at Eldorado Resorts, was named General Manager of the property earlier this year. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date on the days top casino news stories. As the one-year anniversary of the Talibans takeover in Afghanistan has come and gone,gold rush casino no deposit bonus about 100 Afghan youth remain in United States government custody without their parentsthe majority of whom are placed in shelters and other congregate care settings. This number reflects both great progress in releasing hundreds of Afghan youth to sponsors over the past year and significant issues that plague the system serving unaccompanied minors. Afghan children fled to the U.S. hoping to find security and freedom after unexpectedly having to leave their lives and families behind. But for too many of these children, one unimaginable trauma was replaced with another: After escaping the brutal Taliban regime, Afghan youth who have yet to be reunited with family have languished for months in highly regimented settings ill-suited to meet the needs of children with complex trauma. As attorneys representing children in federal immigration custody, we have traveled around the country over the past year, interviewing detained Afghan youth and hearing first-hand about their experiences in U.S. custody since the fall of Kabul. One young man shared his harrowing journey from Kabul to Qatar to Michigan to New York; his fears that he and his Afghan brothers were being forgotten and that no one was working on their cases; his sadness that he could not speak to his family in Afghanistan more often; his frustration over not being able to go to a real school or be part of American life; and his feelings of complete isolation as he and the other Afghan youth often spent 23 hours a day in the same building, apparently due to rigid rules, staff shortages, and the cold New York winter. These stories are absolutely devastating, but for us, all too familiar. Children in federal immigration custody face a restrictive care system that all too often fails to meet the needs of children that do not have family to whom they can be released. Read More: A New York Mosque Becomes a Refuge for Afghan Teens Who Fled Without Their Families As we have spoken with Afghan youth, we have consistently heard them describe regimented settings where children cannot leave the facility except for limited field trips, move around on their own or even visit other childrens rooms, hug one another, take a walk outside alone to get some fresh air, or possess a cell phone or other technology to be in touch with family and friends. One 17-year-old Afghan girl noted that we feel like prisoners because they dont let us take even one step outside our trajectory. We, girls, are quiet and try to obey the rules, but we need some room to breathe. Most children live with constant anxiety about the safety of their families in Afghanistan but face strict limits on how often they can speak with their familiesoften just two 10-minute phone calls per week. One 16-year-old Afghan boy said he participated in a hunger strike to secure more phone time, explaining We were really struggling mentally with how little we were able to talk to our families. It really helps our mental health to be able to speak to our families and make sure that they are okay. Childrens hopes of continuing their education in the U.S. have also been frustrated. Classes that are provided are geared toward children with brief stays rather than an entire school year. Children with longer stays generally do not receive transferrable school credits and often find the curriculum repetitive and basic. One 13-year-old Afghan boy expressed his deep desire to learn English and said, I also want to be exposed to the outside world to learn about how to live outside this place. I came to the United States in hopes of making my life better, but I feel like I have wasted so much time here, and it is time for me to go to real school. Unsurprisingly, prolonged stays in government custody and separation from their families has led many Afghan children to experience deteriorating mental health. Multiple children have been transferred to more restrictive psychiatric facilities, allegedly because their mental health needs could not be met in the shelter setting. Childrens frustration and trauma can also manifest in what staff considers aggressive or defiant behavior, often leading to punitive action rather than solutions that address the root cause of distress. One 17-year-old Afghan boy told us, I am worried they will keep me here until I go crazy and then they will send me to a mental institution. Afghan children and other youth in government custody who dont have family in the U.S. desperately need placements in home-like settings through the ORR Long-Term Foster Care and the Unaccompanied Refugee Minors (URM) programs. As another Afghan girl who hopes to become a womens rights lawyer expressed, I just want to live with real people with real lives and go to school. Yet neither foster care program has sufficient available placements to accommodate the number of eligible children, leaving children to remain on opaque waitlists for months on end, with no updates on if or when they will be placed. Perversely, in our experience, the children with the highest levels of trauma who are struggling the most in institutional care are the least likely to secure one of the limited URM or Long-Term Foster Care spots. We can and must do better for vulnerable children who arrive without family supports. It serves nobodys interest for children to deteriorate in shelters for months at government expense when they could be living with families, attending school, and building new futures in the community. The federal government must act now to significantly invest in Long-Term Foster Care, URM placements, and therapeutic family foster care. The failure to do so will mean children will continue to unnecessarily suffer in government custody when they could be living with families in the community. Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan delivers a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the Bloomberg New Economy Forum held in Singapore via video link on Nov. 15,royal vegas casino pc download 2022. (Xinhua/Wang Ye) BEIJING, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan said on Tuesday that the major policies of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Chinese government will remain highly consistent, and this will provide more certainty and stability for the world. Wang made the remarks via video link in a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the Bloomberg New Economy Forum held in Singapore. In his speech, Wang called on countries to embrace the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind as global peace and development face increasing uncertainties. Countries should work together to ensure common security, pursue mutual benefit and advance innovation, he said. Wang called for implementing the Global Security Initiative to mitigate the peace and security deficit, as well as deepening high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, advancing the Global Development Initiative, ensuring the implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and exploring new paths for global development. The 20th CPC National Congress elected the new CPC central leadership with Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, at its core, and underscored advancing the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation through a Chinese path to modernization, said Wang. He said China will strive for common prosperity, continue to deepen high-standard opening-up, and stay committed to the path of peaceful development. The country will uphold economic globalization and promote an open world economy that is shared by all, said Wang. China remains committed to the equality of all countries regardless of size, strength or wealth, and will never seek hegemony or expansion, Wang said. President Xi and U.S. President Joe Biden have just concluded a face-to-face meeting. China and the United States stand to gain from cooperation and lose from confrontation, Wang said, adding that the two countries should and must explore the right way to get along with each other in the new era. It is hoped that the United States will work with China to bring their relations back onto the right track through mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, Wang said. WASHINGTON Speaker Nancy Pelosis announcement on Thursday that she would step away from the leadership ranks set in motion a long-anticipated generational change in leadership for House Democrats,games binance with a younger group of lawmakers set to take the mantle from the three octogenarians who have for years led the party in the House. For two decades, Ms. Pelosi of California, 82, and Representatives Steny H. Hoyer of Maryland, 83, the House majority leader, and James E. Clyburn of South Carolina, 82, the Democratic whip, have remained at the top of their party in the House, freezing out dozens of ambitious junior lawmakers who were eager to ascend to more senior roles. Some left the House altogether rather than wait years for a chance to ascend, while many others have stayed, waiting less and less patiently for the day when Ms. Pelosi would step aside and make way for fresher faces. Now, the old guard is heading out, and a new one coming in. In announcing her plans, Ms. Pelosi said it was time for a younger crop of leaders to emerge, and Mr. Hoyer quickly followed suit, throwing his support behind Representative Hakeem Jeffries, of New York, 52, who is widely seen as her likeliest successor as Democratic leader. Mr. Clyburn, who is also expected to cede his position in favor of a lower-ranking spot, according to people familiar with his plans, left his intentions vague on Thursday. But he pointed to a new generation of leaders, saying he looked forward to Mr. Jeffries and Representatives Katherine Clark of Massachusetts, 59, and Pete Aguilar of California, 43, as the new top Democrats in the House. The three lawmakers have formed a tight alliance in the last two years in the more junior ranks of leadership and are widely viewed as the sole contenders for the top three slots in the caucus. House Democrats are scheduled to meet on Nov. 30 to elect their leaders for the next Congress. The three were careful on Thursday to avoid openly articulating their leadership ambitions on a day focused on Ms. Pelosis legacy. Leaving the House chamber after she delivered her emotional speech announcing plans to exit as a leader, Mr. Jeffries brushed aside questions and declared it the day to celebrate the extraordinary accomplishments of Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a leader for the ages. Well see what happens as we move forward, said Mr. Jeffries, who, if elected as Democratic leader, would make history as the first Black person in the top leadership position in either chamber. But the three lawmakers have been quietly laying the groundwork to move up. Image Representative Hakeem Jeffries would make history as the first Black man elected to the top leadership position in either chamber if elected as Democratic leader. Credit...Al Drago for The New York Times It would be a dramatic generational shift from a leadership team of octogenarians to lawmakers in their 40s and 50s. Democrats on Thursday were still processing the change. Theres a lot of different emotions, said Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Democrat of New York. This isnt just about any speaker handing over a gavel. This does open the door to many dynamics that I dont think any one member is fully aware of. The Aftermath of the 2022 Midterm Elections Card 1 of 6 Card 1 of 6 A moment of reflection. contributed reporting. Advertisement Continue reading the main story When words have several related meanings, you have to rely on context to parse the meaning of a sentence. When very similar words have similar meanings, the task becomes much harder. Consider the following sentence: For their annual Christmas dinner, the diners ate dinner at a local diner. This is a perfectly grammatical sentence, albeit a somewhat confusing one. If it were part of an academic or professional piece, it would need to be rephrased. Still, it illustrates the point that words with more than one meaning can make English difficult to understand. Dinerand dinnerare nouns with multiple senses that are all related in some way to food. As you can see, this commonality can be a source of confusion. This article will help you decide whether to use dinneror diner, and when each word is correct. What is the Difference Between Diner and Dinner? In this article, I will compare dinervs. dinner.I will use each word in a sentence to illustrate its proper context, and, at the end, I will discuss a useful trick to help you remember whether the word youre using should be dineror dinner. When to Use Diner What does diner mean? Dineris a noun, with three common meanings. A dineris usually either a person who is eating or a small restaurant serving simple American cuisine. A dinercould also be a car on a train where food is served. These cars are also called dining cars. Due to the popularity of air travel, this usage is growing less commonplace. You can see examples of the word diner in the sentences below. Lets eat at that little diner on 28th and Burnside; I think its called Holmans. The diner at table three finished his meal and asked for the check. When the train derailed, all the food in the diner spilled, creating a big mess. She was having dinner at the Malibu, a diner also on 23rd Street that caters to her and her handicapped neighbors. The Wall Street Journal When to Use Dinner What does dinner mean? Dinneris also a noun. It refers to a large daily meal. In most cultures, dinner is eaten either at midday or in the evening. Dinneralso refers to a large formal gathering at which a meal is eaten, usually in honor of a person or to commemorate a special event. In this case, it becomes a synonym of the word banquet. Here are some examples of dinner in a sentence, Tell the children to come inside; its time for dinner. I received an invitation to the White House Correspondents Dinner, but I did not attend. If she does go out for dinner, it is to a restaurant where she can get something she wouldnt make at home. The New York Times Trick to Remember the Difference Here is a helpful trick to remember dinnervs. diner. A diner is either a person, a restaurant, or a train car. Dinner is either a meal or a gathering around food. Therefore, if youre referring to a person or place, dineris the correct word. To describe a meal or an event, you would want to use dinner, instead. You can remember that dinnerrefers to a meal since it shares a double Nwith the word anniversary, and anniversary dinners are a popular tradition among married people. Summary Is it diner or dinner? Dinerand dinnerare similar nouns that all related to food in some way. A diner refers to a person who is eating, a certain type of restaurant, or a train car where food is served. Dinner is an important meal, or a formal gathering around food. You can remember to save dinner for occasions involving a meal by remembering the double N in the words anniversary and dinner. If you still need help, you can always check this article again for a refresher. China and North Korea will co-produce a movie for the first time since they established diplomatic relations 60 years ago, Beijing Youth Weekly reports. The film entitled Arirang after North Koreas famous annual group calisthenics and artistic performance, will provide an account of cultural exchanges in the field of dance between the two countries. Both governments have attached great importance to the movie and put together a superior production team, including one director and one photographer from the two countries. Top Chinese actors Liu Dong, Li Mengnan and Gao Xin have begun filming in Pyongyang. The first Arirang performance was held in North Korea in 2002 to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the birth of Chairman Kim II-sung. The highly successful performance gradually developed into the Arirang Performing Arts Festival. Today, the performance, which includes more than 100,000 participants, takes place annually in Pyongyang between August and October. It features great North Korean musical compositions, folk dances and artistic gymnastics and acrobatics that tell the story of the countrys past, its current social achievements and the happiness of North Koreans under the leadership of Kim II-sung and Kim Jong II. The movie is expected to wrap up production by year-end and be screened during the first half of 2012. By Zhang Ting China and North Korea to Co-produce the Film Arirangadded by chinatimesonline on View all posts by chinatimesonline What Is a Hot IPO?euro casinos The term hot IPO refers to an initial public offering with significant demand. These IPOs are popular, drawing a tremendous amount of interest from investors and the media even before they hit the market. This hype and attention generally lead to a significant rise in share prices after the company goes public. Hot IPOs may be risky, especially when it comes to investing in companies that don't have a proven track record of success. Key Takeaways A hot IPO is an initial public offering that garners great interest from the media and demand from investors. Higher demand leads to sharp price increases in the secondary market, which are generally not sustainable. Companies bring in at least one bank to underwrite and handle the pricing, marketing, and decisions about the number of shares and share price range. The demand for shares in a hot IPO surpasses the initial supply, which means the price needs to be revised upward. Underpriced hot IPOs will likely see their stock price rise after the shares begin trading while the stock price drops for overpriced ones, How Hot IPOs Work Private companies that want to go public often do so by issuing stock through an initial public offering. They can raise a substantial amount of money in a short time, particularly if the issuance attracts public attention and becomes a hot IPO. An IPO gives a private company a chance to cash in on the publics demand for its shares. The first step is for the company to find at least one investment bank to act as an underwriter. The underwriter(s) markets the IPO, helping the company set a per-share price. Banks assume a specific number of shares, which they will offer to their buyers, who are either institutional or retail investors. The banks collect a portion of the sale proceeds as a fee, which is called the underwriting spread. IPOs are considered hot if and when they draw a great deal of attention from the media, which can lead to a lot of interest from investors. By going through the hot IPO process, companies can raise a lot of capital in a short amount of time. This allows them to pay off their debts, fund their operations, and set aside money for future growth. The increased demand for shares in a hot IPO often leads to a sharp rise in the price of the stock soon after it begins trading. This sudden increase in share price is often not sustainable, which means the price drops. This pattern can have a big impact on the market itself. Sharp price moves can affect initial shareholders after trading opens on the secondary market. Underwriters may give preferential treatment to high-value clients when offering shares in a hot IPO, so they bear some risk if they overprice the stock. A hot IPO is not a guaranteed win for investors because the hype doesn't bear the planned fruit for the investor. Special Considerations Hot IPOs appeal to investors who anticipate that the demand for shares will outstrip the number of shares offered. IPOs with more demand than supply are considered oversubscribed, making them a target for short-term speculators as well as those who see a long-term opportunity in holding the equity. Because a hot IPO is likely to be oversubscribed, companies often allow their underwriters to increase the size of the offering to accommodate more investors and make more money. Underwriters must balance the size of the IPO with the appropriate price for the level of interest in the offering. When done correctly, this balancing will maximize profit for the company and its underwriter banks. If a hot IPO is an underpriced issue, it will usually see a rapid rise in price after the shares hit the market and the market adjusts to the high demand for the stock. Overpricing the IPO can lead to a rapid fall in prices, even though the higher price benefits the underwriting bank issuing the stock since it only makes money on the initial issue. Companies have other ways they can go public, including a direct listing or a direct public offering. Examples of a Hot IPO Social giant Facebook's initial public offering is commonly considered a hot IPO. In early 2012, analysts indicated that its long-awaited IPO, seeking to raise about $10.6 billion by selling more than 337 million shares at $28 to $35 per share, could generate such significant interest from investors. Those analysts predicted an oversubscribed IPO. When the market opened on May 18, 2012, investor interest showed a higher demand for the company's shares than it offered. To take advantage of the oversubscribed IPO and fulfill investor demand, Facebook increased the number of shares to 421 million. But it also raised the price range to $34 to $38 per share. Facebook and its underwriters effectively raised both the supply and price of shares to meet demand, diminishing their oversubscription. However, it quickly became clear that Facebook was not oversubscribed at its IPO price, as the stock fell precipitously in its first four months of trading. The stock failed to trade above its IPO price until July 31, 2013. We have ascertained distinctly that the late explosion did not happen in that part of the mine where the Davys were used. A Dictionary of Arts, Manufactures and Mines|Andrew Ure I think the Tibetans were really impressed with our humanity, and looked upon Davys as some incarnation of a medicine Buddha. The Unveiling of Lhasa|Edmund Candler He began with a short statement of Davys great discovery and of his illness. The Royal Institution|Bence Jones What Is the Long Tail?cheap online casino spinata grande The long tail is a business strategy that allows companies to realize significant profits by selling low volumes of hard-to-find items to many customers, instead of only selling large volumes of a reduced number of popular items. The term was first coined in 2004 by Chris Anderson, who argued that products in low demand or with low sales volume can collectively make up market share that rivals or exceeds the relatively few current bestsellers and blockbusters but only if the store or distribution channel is large enough. Long-tail may also refer to a type of liability in the insurance industry or to tail risk found in investment portfolios. This definition deals with the business strategy use of the term. Understanding the Long Tail Strategy Chris Anderson is a British-American writer and editor most notably known for his work at Wired Magazine. In 2004, Anderson coined the phrase "long tail" after writing about the concept in Wired Magazine where he was editor-in-chief. In 2006, Anderson also wrote a book titled The Long Tail: Why the Future of Business Is Selling Less of More. The long tail concept considers less popular goods that are in lower demand. Anderson argues that these goods could actually increase in profitability because consumers are navigating away from mainstream markets. This theory is supported by the growing number of online marketplaces that alleviate the competition for shelf space and allow an unmeasurable number of products to be sold, specifically through the Internet. Andersons research shows the demand overall for these less popular goods as a comprehensive whole could rival the demand for mainstream goods. While mainstream products achieve a greater number of hits through leading distribution channels and shelf space, their initial costs are high, which drags on their profitability. In comparison, long tail goods have remained in the market over long periods of time and are still sold through off-market channels. These goods have low distribution and production costs, yet are readily available for sale. Key Takeaways The long tail is a business strategy that allows companies to realize significant profits by selling low volumes of hard-to-find items to many customers, instead of only selling large volumes of a reduced number of popular items. The term was first coined in 2004 by researcher Chris Anderson. Anderson argues that these goods could actually increase in profitability because consumers are navigating away from mainstream markets. The strategy theorizes that consumers are shifting from mass-market buying to more niche or artisan buying. Long Tail Probability and Profitability The long tail of distribution represents a period in time when sales for less common products can return a profit due to reduced marketing and distribution costs. Overall, long tail occurs when sales are made for goods not commonly sold. These goods can return a profit through reduced marketing and distribution costs. The long tail also serves as a statistical property that states a larger share of population rests within the long tail of a probability distribution as opposed to the concentrated tail that represents a high level of hits from the traditional mainstream products highly stocked by mainstream retail stores. The head and long tail graph depicted by Anderson in his research represents this complete buying pattern. The concept overall suggests the U.S. economy is likely to shift from one of mass-market buying to an economy of niche buying all through the 21st century. Facebook Facebook Twitter B.A., English, Rutgers University Unless you keep up with the standup comedy scene, the arrival of Trevor Noah last year as Jon Stewarts replacement on might have been a bit of a surprise. Its easy to forget how relatively unknown Stewart himself was when he took over for Craig Kilborne in 1999. Noahs assumption of the hosting duties wasnt without controversy. Shortly after he was announced as host, some Tweets hed sent a few years earlier surfaced, some of which were deemed tasteless, some even anti-semitic. Before he even began hosting, calls rolled in for him to step down. After a rocky first couple of episodes, some predicted he wouldnt last long in the role. Since then, Noah has proven that he has what it takes to last as a late-night host and continues to see his star rise. His recently-published memoir, Born a Crime, has spent 13 weeks on The New York Times Bestseller List, confirming that Noahs brand of intelligent outsider comedy is winning over audiences in America. Hes an outsider, of course, because he was born and raised in South Africa, the son of a Xhosa mother and a Swiss-German father. Even if you're already familiar with Noah's background, his hilarious and insightful memoir is chock full of facts about the comedian that willsurprise you. Heres just five, to give you an idea. The Title is Literal Trevor Noah at the 48th NAACP Image Awards.Marcus Ingram / Getty Images The title Born a Crimewas chosen very deliberately because when Noah was born he wasa crimeit was illegal in South Africa at the time for Blacks and whites to have children (yes, really). In fact, Noah opens his book with a quote from the Immorality Act of 1927. Noah was born in 1984, just a few years before South Africas apartheid system collapsed, but that racist system and the Immorality Act had an immense influence on his early life because Noah was very light-skinned. He never saw his father, and his mother had to hide him away, often acting as if he wasnt her son in public for fear that she might be charged with a crime and arrested. Hes Been in Jail Noah didnt have it easy, though as a light-skinned Black man in South Africa he recounts that he often had it easier than others because he was mistaken for whitewhich spared him beatings and other abuses. Noahs honest about the fact that he thought he got special treatment because he wasspecial, rather than because of his skin color; he points out that he didnt have any other light-skinned kids to show him that it wasnt because he was so wonderful. Noah was a prankster and a bit of a wild child. In a series of hilarious anecdotes, he recounts some of his adventures in the extremely poor area he grew up in. One night when he was a teenager working (and living) at his stepfathers auto repair shop, he borrowed a car from the shop. He was pulled over and arrested for auto theft and spent a week in jail before being bailed out. He pretended hed been visiting a friend, and didnt realize until years later that his mother had paid for the lawyer who got him released. Hes a Linguist Noahs mixed racial status inspired him to become something of a mimic in order to survive; he says he found that the best way to fit in with people was to speak their language. English was most important; Noah says that in South Africa English is the language of money and being able to speak it opened doors everywherebut he also speaks Zulu, and six other languages, including German, Tswana, and Afrikaans. He says that when he speaks German he has a Hitler-ish accent that can be off-putting, which is interesting, because ... He Had a Friend Named Hitler Noah tells a humorous story about his time as a DJ, and his friend who would come and dance at the parties Noah would booka friend named Hitler. Noah explains that in South Africa theres only a superficial concept of some Western historical figures, and names are often used without any idea of their significance, leading to a surreal moment at a Jewish school when the Noah gets the dancefloor popping and suddenly everyone is chanting Go, Hitler! Go, Hitler!as his friend tears it up. Names are central to Noahs life; he explains that in the Xhosa culture, names have specific meanings. His mothers name Nombuyiselo, for example, means She Who Gives Back. What does Trevor mean? Nothing; his mother specifically chose a name that had no meaning so that her son would have no fate and would be free to do whatever he wanted. He Was a Bit of a Pyromaniac Noah freely admits he was a bit of a pyromaniac in his youth. He once burned down the house of a white family whose maid was the mother of a friend of his, leading to a moment where his mother literally cannot even punish him because she is so stunned by whats transpired. The funniest bit is when a young Trevor empties gunpowder from several firecrackers into a planter and accidentally drops a match into it; when his mother asks if hes been playing with fire he says no, of course not, and she tells him she knows hes lying. When he looks in the mirror, hes burned off his eyebrows! Serious, Hilarious Born a Crime is a serious look at growing up in the final days of apartheid, growing up poor, and growing up with a strong, loving mother. Its an absorbing look at another culture and at the early life of a smart, funny man who has gone from one of the poorest and most racially troubled places in the world to become a bona-fide American celebrity. What Is the Hamada Equation?crypto cold wallets ranked The Hamada equation is a fundamental analysis method of analyzing a firm's cost of capital as it uses additional financial leverage, and how that relates to the overall riskiness of the firm. The measure is used to summarize the effects this type of leverage has on a firm's cost of capitalover and above the cost of capital as if the firm had no debt. How the Hamada Equation Works Robert Hamada is a former professor of finance at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Hamada started teaching at the university in 1966 and served as the dean of the business school from 1993 to 2001. His equation appeared in his paper, "The Effect of the Firm's Capital Structure on the Systemic Risk of Common Stocks" in the Journal of Financein May 1972. The formula for the Hamada equation is: L = U [ 1 + ( 1 T ) ( D E ) ] where: L = Levered beta U = Unlevered beta* T = Tax rate D / E = Debt to equity ratio* \begin{ aligned} &\beta_L = \beta_U \left [ 1 + ( 1 - T) \left ( \frac{ D }{ E } \right ) \right ]\\ &\textbf{ where:} \\ &\beta_L = \text{ Levered beta} \\ &\beta_U = \text{ Unlevered beta*} \\ &T = \text{ Tax rate} \\ &D/E = \text{ Debt to equity ratio*} \\ \end{ aligned} L=U[1+(1T)(ED)]where:L=Levered betaU=Unlevered beta*T=Tax rateD/E=Debt to equity ratio* * Unlevered beta is the market risk of a company without the impact of debt. * Debt-to-equity ratio is a measure of a company's financial leverage. How to Calculate the Hamada Equation The Hamada equation is calculated by: Dividing the companys debt by its equity. Finding one less the tax rate. Multiplying the result from no. 1 and no. 2 and adding one. Taking the unlevered beta and multiplying it by the result from no. 3. What Does the Hamada Equation Tell You? The equation draws upon the Modigliani-Miller theorem on capital structure and extends an analysis to quantify the effect of financial leverage on a firm. Beta is a measure of volatility or systemic risk relative to the overall market. The Hamada equation, then, shows how the beta of a firm changes with leverage. The higher the beta coefficient, the higher the risk associated with the firm. Key Takeaways The Hamada equation is a method of analyzing a firm's cost of capital as it uses additional financial leverage. It draws upon the Modigliani-Miller theorem on capital structure. The higher the Hamada equation beta coefficient, the higher the risk associated with the firm. Example of the Hamada Equation A firm has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.60, a tax rate of 33%, and an unlevered beta of 0.75. The Hamada coefficient would be 0.75 [1 + (1 - 0.33)(0.60)], or 1.05. This means that financial leverage for this firm increases the overall risk by a beta amount of 0.30, which is 1.05 less 0.75 or 40% (0.3 / 0.75). Or consider retailer Target (NYSE: TGT), which has a current unlevered beta of 0.82. Its debt-to-equity ratio is 1.05 and the effective annual tax rate is 20%. Thus, the Hamada coefficient is 0.99, or 0.82 [1 + (1 - 0.2) (0.26)]. Thus, leverage for a firm increases the beta amount by 0.17, or 21%. The Difference Between Hamada Equation and Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC) The Hamada equation is part of the weighted average cost of capital (WACC). The WACC involves unlevering the beta to relever it to find an ideal capital structure. The act of relevering the beta is the Hamada equation. Limitations of Using the Hamada Equation The Hamada equation is used in finding optimal capital structures, yet the equation doesnt include default risk. While there have been modifications to account for such a risk, they still lack a robust way to incorporate credit spreads and the risk of default. To gain a better understanding of how to use the Hamada equation, its useful to understand what the beta is and how to calculate it. big win roulette bovada in floridashows grade level based on the word's complexity. deerhound [ deer-hound ]/ drhand / New Word List Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.[ deer-hound ]/ drhand /Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. nounScottish deerhound. Words nearby deerhound How to use deerhound deerhound/ (dhand) / nouna very large rough-coated breed of dog of the greyhound type Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Question deerhoundFirst recorded in 180515; deer + houndDeerfield, Deerfield Beach, deer fly, deer fly fever, deer grass, deerhound, deer lick, deer mouse, Deer Park, deerskin, deerstalkerDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 -Do you have time to schedule a meeting this week? -Yeah, anytime on Tuesday will workor is it any time? You may have found yourself in a similar dilemma such as this, questioning which use of anytimeis correct. Are they both? Are anytime and any time used interchangeably? Its a good question. After all, you dont even notice a difference between the two in speech. The variations are only separated by a space, so you cant exactly pick up on any differences. This makes it all the more difficult when you go to type them out. Today I want to discuss the differences between anytime vs. any time, explain their functions within a sentence, provide examples, and give you some tips to keep track of them. When to Use Anytime (One Word) Anytime, used as a single word, is an adverb, and it has a meaning similar to whenever, at any time, or on any occasion. Here are a few examples, We can talk anytime you want. Anytime you need something, just call. You can watch TV anytime; lets go do something. The train should be leaving anytime now. A good trick to determine if anytimeis appropriate to use is to substitute at any time into your sentence. If it still makes sense, anytimeis correct choice. For example, I can meet anytime on Saturday for lunch. I can meet at any time on Saturday for lunch. As you can see, the sentence still makes sense with the phrase at any time substituted, so we can safely use anytime. When to Use Any Time (Two Words) Any time, used as two words, is the more versatile of the two constructions, so, if you are ever unsure about which variant is correct for your sentence, pick the two-word any time. Any timeis a noun phrase, and it has a meaning similar to any amount of time. Here are a few examples, Do you have any time tomorrow to help me with my homework? The conference was good, but I spent hardly any time sightseeing. I dont have any time to read now that I got this new job. You never make any time for us. Just like the one-word anytime, the two-word any timealso functions adverbially, but it also has additional functions as a noun phrase. Can Anytime and Any Time be Used Interchangeably? Now, youre probably thinking, if anytimeand any timecan both function as adverbs, can they be used interchangeably? The answer is no. When writing, we need to be careful when using these words with prepositional phrases. Only any time(two words) can follow a prepositional phrase. For example, I can hang out at any time tomorrow night. (CORRECT) I can hang out at anytime tomorrow night. (WRONG) The reason only any timewill work in this sentence is because prepositions take objects, and only a noun or noun phrase can be the object of a preposition, not an adverb. If we were to remove the preposition at in the above example, thereby removing the prepositional phrase, both would be acceptable since the noun phrase any timecan be used adverbially. I can hang out at any time tomorrow night. (CORRECT) I can hang out anytime tomorrow night. (CORRECT) Summary There is a distinction to be made between any time vs. anytime and the two constructions cannot be used interchangeably. Anytime functions as an adverb and means any time whatsoever. Any timemeans any particular amount of time. It is a noun phrase that can function adverbially. This choice alone should appear after a preposition. *Either choice is appropriate in the beginning example sentence. Illustration: Xia Qing/GT Nankai University in North China's Tianjin recently gained attention online for its reward to students who actively participated in physical activities in 2021. According to the school,the student who made the most reservations for a badminton court did so 229 times throughout the year. Badminton is likely the most popular sport in Nankai University with the top three reserving the field more than 200 times each. The university awarded the top 10 students on the list of reservations for using badminton stadium and natatorium with a specially designed coupon for 20 reservations. Those who made reservations for basketball and volleyball will also be awarded similar coupons. With the development of internet technology, more young people prefer to enjoy TV series, movies and video games. Some have developed a bad daily routine that harms their health. The school said such rewards mean to encourage more students to take part in sports and do physical exercises. It is hoped such measures will bring more students to engage in sports that benefit their health. What Was the Halloween Massacre?real cash online casino slots The Halloween Massacre refers to the Canadian governments 2006 decision to tax all income trusts domiciled in Canada. On Halloween, Oct. 31, 2006, Canadas then-minister of finance, Jim Flaherty, announced that all income trusts would be taxed similarly to corporations at a rate of over 30% on taxable income, causing unitholders values to decrease dramatically virtually overnight. Income trustswhich were permitted to make distributions to unitholders on a pretax basis under previous Canadian income tax lawswere a popular investment vehicle in the early 2000s, especially in Canada. The Canadian energy sector was hardest hit by the change, suffering an estimated loss of about 17.85% in value (about $35 billion) to investors over the 10 days following the announcement, giving rise to the term massacre. Key Takeaways The Halloween Massacre refers to the Canadian governments October 2006 decision to tax all Canadian income trusts in a similar manner as corporations. The tax rate levied was more than 30%, a shock to many trustors. The change was made to compensate for a perceived loss in tax revenue, and it caused an immediate drop of 12% in the value of Canadian income trusts. Understanding Canadian Income Trusts A Canadian income trust is an investment fund that holds income-producing assets and distributes payments to unitholders, or shareholders, on a regular basis. Distributions are usually made quarterly or monthly. A Canadian income trust must distribute a minimum of 90% of its net cash flows. Tax advantages to investing in a Canadian income trust include advantages to both the investor and the entity itself. The investor receives a portion of the periodic payment as an untaxed return of capital and a portion as a taxable distribution. The trust distributes most of its cash to unitholders, leaving little to be retained by the entity, so there is little left to tax. The trust pays out most of the earnings to unitholders before paying taxes, and it is usually traded publicly on a securities exchange. Understanding the Halloween Massacre The change in Canadian tax law to tax income trusts the same as corporationswhich was debated after the factwas made to remedy a perceived loss of tax revenue. At the time, according to Bloomberg News, there were some 250 trusts listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), with many offering enticing yields of 10%. The surprise move by the government shocked investors and caused an immediate 12% decline in the value of the trusts. U.S. investors who invest in a Canadian income trust should keep in mind that payments from these trusts are subject to a Canadian withholding tax of 15%. In some cases, its possible to claim a foreign tax credit, depending on where the shares are held. In the years since the Halloween Massacre, interest rates were low in Canada and the United States, as investors clamored for more yields like the kind that income trusts once provided. Nevertheless, as of 2022, income trusts were still available, many of them real estate investment trusts (REITs). These entities hold and maintain income-producing real estateincluding office buildings, shopping centers, and hotelsthat Canada still offers special tax treatment. When income flows through to unitholders, they dont pay much, if any, corporate tax, and most of the distributions are taxed as ordinary income. Recent Fallout from the Halloween Massacre In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Canadian REIT market was hit hard. The second quarter of 2020 brought the largest ever year-over-year decline for quarterly earnings at minus 13%, according to Carolyn Blair, managing director of RBC Capital Markets Real Estate Group. As of the end of September 2020, Canadian REITs underperformed with a negative 20% return over the preceding 12 months. The pandemics effect on real estateincluding tenant insolvency, empty storefronts, reduced retail business, closed shops, restaurants, and morewas to blame. Canadian REITs, since then, experienced a major rebound, but then fell back. As of the end of September 2021, they had returned 43% over the previous 12 months, according to RBC. But some think, as of October 2022, that REITS may be softening. When Was Canadas Halloween Massacre? The Halloween Massacre took place on Oct. 31, 2006. On this date, the Canadian government made an unexpected announcement that all income trusts domiciled in Canada would be taxed like corporations. What Was the Impact of the Halloween Massacre? The announcement caused the value of Canadian income trusts to decline by 12% immediately. The Canadian energy sector was impacted the most and lost approximately 17.85% in value during the 10 days that followed. What Is a Canadian Income Trust? A Canadian income trust is an investment fund that holds income-producing assets and distributes payments to unitholders on a periodic basis, typically monthly or quarterly. The trusts are required to distribute a minimum of 90% of net cash flows to shareholders. The Bottom Line Income trusts have survived the Halloween Massacre and the subsequent near-death experience of the COVID-19 pandemic. While not as lucrative as in the past, the sector is more than skeletal and very much alive. picoin price batman arkham knightshows grade level based on the word's complexity. dawk 1[ dawk, dahk ]/ dk, dk / New Word List Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.[ dawk, dahk ]/ dk, dk /Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. noundak. OTHER WORDS FROM dawk How to use dawk (2 of 2) dawk2/ (dk) / noundialect a Northern English dialect word for hand Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Question dawk196570; d(ove)+ (h)awkdawkish, adjectiveDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 Pennsylvania legislators are considering expansion of the states gambling industryin an attempt to fill a huge budget shortfall before June 30, when negotiations over the annual budget are due to be completed. Centerpiece in a bill, which is to be reviewed by the Senate, is the legalization of online gamblingon the territory of the state. Furthermore, the proposed legislation calls for casinos and racinos to be allowed to install slot machines in off-track betting facilities as well as satellite locations. If passed into law, the bill would require state casinos to pay considerable upfront fees in order to introduce online gambling options and to expand their operations outside their premises. According to some lawmakers, the signing of the proposal would result in millions of dollars being directed to Pennsylvanias coffers. Sen. Kim Ward, Chair of the Senate Community, Economic and Recreational Development Committee, who introduced the bill, commented that they are not prompting it in order to secure the budget shortfall. However, Sen. Ward admitted that her proposal might help the state budget but only in the short term. If signed into law, the bill would allow to 10 of Pennsylvanias 12 casinos to launch online gambling operations. Yet, they will need to pay a $10-million permit fee and another $1 million to renew their Internet licenses every five years. Furthermore, they will also have to pay a $5-million fee in order to be able to install slot machines at satellite and off-track betting facilities. If all eligible gambling venues on the territory of the state decide to take advantage of the bill, the amount of $260 million in upfront fees will be generated. Kevin OToole, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, said that the regulator will move quickly when it comes to online gambling and its introduction in the state. According to the official, online operations could be launched up to 12 months after the bills passage. It all depends on when casino operators will file their applications. In addition to all this, Sen. Wards legislation calls for a 54% tax on gaming revenue to be imposed. The state has posted a drop in its casino revenue for two consecutive years. Operators pointed to competition from neighboring states as one of the main reasons for this. It seems that Sen. Wards proposed legislation has been welcomed by most of Pennsylvanias gambling venues. Casino officials commented that online gambling would probably improve their properties arsenalsand would generate more revenue. However, certain casino representatives believe that Sen. Wards bill might not be good for Pennsylvanias gambling industry. For instance, Mark Juliano, President of Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem, noted that online gambling would have negative effect on the industryand would result in state residents losing their jobs at local casinos. betmgm mobile app downloadshows grade level based on the word's complexity. danger angle New Word List Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. noun Navigation.a horizontal or vertical angle, subtended by two points on shore, that provides a maximum or minimum angle between the points as observed from a vessel if it is to steer a safe course. Words nearby danger angle How to use in a sentence Kickstarter is one start-up platform that seems to have realized the danger. Design Your Own Dinosaur: The Era of Custom DNA|Justin Jones|January 8, 2015|DAILY BEAST Design Your Own Dinosaur: The Era of Custom DNA|Justin Jones|January 8, 2015|DAILY BEAST What had been the greatest asset of the paperback revolution, observes Rabinowitz, became its greatest danger. How Pulp Fiction Saved Literature|Wendy Smith|January 8, 2015|DAILY BEAST How Pulp Fiction Saved Literature|Wendy Smith|January 8, 2015|DAILY BEAST My captain on the boat, Brazakka, he wanted me to do this Hemingway bit, with the white stubble, and he wanted the hero angle. The Story Behind Lee Marvins Liberty Valance Smile|Robert Ward|January 3, 2015|DAILY BEAST The Story Behind Lee Marvins Liberty Valance Smile|Robert Ward|January 3, 2015|DAILY BEAST He remained as hopeful as ever that he would himself join the NYPD, whatever the danger. In The Shadow of Murdered Cops|Michael Daly|December 26, 2014|DAILY BEAST They work in a world filled with a sensereal or imaginedof danger lurking around each corner and every hallway. Any Outrage Out There for Ramos and Liu, Protesters?|Mike Barnicle|December 22, 2014|DAILY BEAST Any Outrage Out There for Ramos and Liu, Protesters?|Mike Barnicle|December 22, 2014|DAILY BEAST But the greatest danger I ever underwent in that kingdom was from a monkey, who belonged to one of the clerks of the kitchen. Gulliver's Travels|Jonathan Swift Gulliver's Travels|Jonathan Swift In particular the Governor of Adinskoy offered us a guard of fifty men to the next station, if we apprehended any danger. The Life and Most Surprising Adventures of Robinson Crusoe, of York, Mariner (1801)|Daniel Defoe The Life and Most Surprising Adventures of Robinson Crusoe, of York, Mariner (1801)|Daniel Defoe Worst danger zone, the open sea, now traversed, but on land not yet out of the wood. Gallipoli Diary, Volume I|Ian Hamilton Gallipoli Diary, Volume I|Ian Hamilton We got off our horses and stooped over the man, forgetting for the moment that danger might lurk in the surrounding thicket. Raw Gold|Bertrand W. Sinclair Raw Gold|Bertrand W. Sinclair They soon retired, however, as the Fort was in danger of being attacked from another side. The Philippine Islands|John Foreman QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Question danger angleFirst recorded in 189095Danelaw, danewort, dang, danged, danger, danger angle, Danger Cave, danger man, danger money, dangerous, dangerous offenderDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 dame New Word List Dame/ (dem) / noun (in Britain)the title of a woman who has been awarded the Order of the British Empire or any of certain other orders of chivalrythe legal title of the wife or widow of a knight or baronet, placed before her nameDame Judith Compare Lady Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.[ deym ]/ dem /Save This Word!See dame (2 of 2)Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 Article by Ambassador Zhang Junsai () published by Chinese Embassy in Canada. It has been a long-standing proud tradition to respect teachers and value education in China. In the past, with their meager income, Chinese parents would not hesitate to squeeze savings out of expenditures on food and clothing just to save money for sending their children to decent schools. With arduous endeavor by the Chinese government over the years, illiteracy rate in China has been reduced from 80% in 1949 when the P.R. China was just founded to the current figure of 4.08%. This year, Chinas 12th Five-year Plan emphasizes the need to further consolidate the achievements of popularizing the mandatory education. China is striving to develop vocational education and will further improve the quality of high education. In 2012, national fiscal expenditure on education is expected to reach 4% of Chinas gross domestic product. It has become a key policy for China to promote the sustainable national development of education industry and leverage its modernization level. With focus on education at home, we are also looking for opportunities abroad. Nowadays, China has distinguished itself as the worlds NO. 1 source for overseas students and a major destination for international students. Since reform and opening-up, there have been 1.6 million Chinese students studying abroad, up by nearly 270 times. International students in China exceeded 260,000 in 2010, with annual growth of 18% for the past 6 to 7 years. Moreover, we are also in productive and robust exchanges and collaborations with many other countries in fields of faculty training, Chinese language teaching, and combined scientific research among universities. The history of China-Canada educational cooperation is long-evolved and well-established in a wide range of scopes and at high levels. China-Canada educational links could date back as early as the 1960s, which actually served as the icebreaker for the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between our two countries. Over several decades, educational departments of both countries, in particular higher teaching institutions have entered into partnerships of various kinds. The China-Canada scholar exchange program, which commenced in 1973, is now in full swing. There are over 70,000 Chinese students now studying in Canada. Canada has become one of the top destinations for Chinese students studying overseas. There are now over 2,000 Canadian students studying in China, which leapfrogged from merely a dozen when the two countries just established diplomatic relations. At the invitation of the Chinese side, a hundred principals and executives of Canadian middle and primary schools visited China in 2009. A hundred Canadian high school students participated in the Summer Camp in China in 2010. During the official visit last July, Canadian Foreign Minister John Baird met with Chinese Education Minister Yuan Guiren, where both sides reaffirmed commitments to jointly deepen and expand China-Canada cooperation in education. During the just-concluded China-Canada Strategic Working Group Meeting, both countries agreed to incorporate educational exchange and collaboration as a new area of strategic significance in the overall bilateral relationship. China and Canada educational cooperation does not only bring in knowledge sharing, but also promotes communications of our two civilizations and cultures, which will is conducive to a more extensive and solid social foundation of China-Canada friendship. Taking the Chinese students and scholars staying in Canada for example, they are now part and parcel of the multi-culture society in Canada. They are serving as the building blocks for expanded cooperation and exchanges in areas like science, culture and so on, which is instrumental to enhance the mutual understanding and friendship of the people of China and Canada. With China-Canada strategic partnership now on a fast track of development, cooperation in education has huge potential and heralds a bright future. In my view, efforts could be made in the following areas: Firstly, we should continue to encourage more two-way students exchanges with each other as destinations. Chinas Ministry of Education has signed Memorandum of Understanding with 9 provinces of Canada on mutual-recognition of academic degrees. The Council of Ministers of Education of Canada recently released an international education marketing action plan for provinces and territories, which aimed at significantly increase the number of Canadian students studying abroad over the next decade, especially in China. Both countries should fully leverage on these favorable conditions and endeavor to expand the scale of exchange students. We should also provide more conveniences to the students in terms of issuing studying visas, ensuring their safety and guaranteeing the teaching quality. Secondly, we should encourage more partnerships built among universities from both of our countries. International education exchange is an important channel for optimizing education resources and training talents with competitive edge. Currently, there are quite a number of universities and colleges teamed up in joint multi-disciplinary researches. Both China and Canada could further tap into the potential of mutual complementarities and strengthen exchanges in teaching faculty, academic scholars, joint education and research. By doing so, the two sides will be better positioned to deepen the bilateral exchanges and cooperation in the field of education, especially with more shared teaching experience and methodologies. Thirdly, we will continue to strengthen collaboration in the teaching of Chinese language. Language serves as the bridge for communications and the bond for friendship. There are now 12 Confucius Institutes and 16 Confucius Classrooms in Canada, which provide sound environment for Canadians to learn the Chinese language and culture. This will also put Canadian students who are going to study in China in a better position both linguistically and culturally. Both sides should work hard to create favorable conditions for the Confucius Institutes and Classrooms, making those an effective platform for people of both countries, especially the young generation to compare thoughts, share knowledge, and reinforce friendship. Fourthly, we should leverage on university resources to conduct combined R&D. Canadian universities and research institutes are leading the charge internationally in fields of environment, energy, telecommunication, agri-food, bio-products, health and life science. We would welcome more higher education institutions of both countries to team-up with enterprises in carrying out R&D projects and commercialization to the benefits of our two peoples. Looking into the future, more importance should be given to exchanges of youth scientists in the high-tech field. Our two countries should always stand ready to work together to establish a shared pool of academic talents, and a shared platform for forging ahead in the new frontiers. Our cooperation in education includes, but is not limited to exchanges among teaching institutions, academic research team-ups and relevant educational service partnerships. Moreover, it is more a way of people-to-people communication for understanding and friendship. With the increasing number of exchange students in both countries, a better legal, learning and living environment should be created for them, as they are our beloved children. They are the ones to carry on the friendship between China and Canada. Zhang Junsai, male, Oct. 1953 born in Shanghai, graduated from Beijing Foreign Languages Institute. 1979-1983 Attache Embassy of the Republic of China in New Zealand 1983-1988 Ministry of Foreign Affairs American and Oceanian Affairs Attache, Third Secretary 1988-1990 United States of America and the Foreign Affairs University Fletcher School of Law, received a masters degree Ministry of Foreign Affairs 1990-1991 Second Secretary, American and Oceanian Affairs 1991-1995 Consul Consulate General in Sydney Ministry of Foreign Affairs 1995-1997 First Secretary, American and Oceanian Affairs, the Director 1997-2000 Counsellor, Embassy in Australia 2000-2003 ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of the Republic of Fiji Islands Ministry of Foreign Affairs 2003-2007 Deputy Director of American and Oceanian Affairs 2007 Chinas ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of the Commonwealth of Australia 2010 Now, Chinese Ambassador to Canada Married with one daughter. Embrace a Better Tomorrow for China-Canada Educational Cooperationadded by chinatimesonline on View all posts by chinatimesonline Once the game starts, onlookers will see the two of you flailing around with headsets, looking like danged fools. Upcoming game turns Quest VR headsets into real-life laser tag machines|Sam Machkovech|August 25, 2021|Ars Technica Before his dramatic about-face during his Senate primary campaignwhen he proclaimed, Complete the danged fence! The Death of Immigration Reform|Bryan Curtis|November 7, 2010|DAILY BEAST Ive run a steam laundry in Porto Ricky and had the whole danged business washed away in a hurricane. The Woman Gives|Owen Johnson AMSTERDAM A Dutch court on Thursday convicted three men with ties to the Russian security services and sentenced them to life in prison over the downing of a passenger jet above eastern Ukraine in July 2014,michael charge tips today during a Moscow-backed separatist uprising that foreshadowed Russias full-scale invasion of the country. The court found that an antiaircraft missile system provided to separatist forces by the Russian military brought down Malaysia Airlines Flight 17, commonly known as MH17, on its way from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur, killing all 298 people aboard. The crash was by far the biggest loss of civilian life in the conflict up to that time, eliciting global outrage. Some of the victims families have suggested that the Wests failure to punish Moscow back then is in part responsible for the invasion of Ukraine and the Russian war crimes that have become a part of everyday life in the country today. Ive always said that our family members were the first non-Ukrainian people that were the victims of a war that started eight years ago, said Piet Ploeg, the chairman of the MH17 Flight Disaster Foundation, representing most family members of the crash victims. And the fact that the convictions came only after eight years of painstaking investigation and judicial proceedings marked by Moscows stonewalling highlights the formidable challenges that prosecutors will face again as they try to hold more recent Russian war criminals accountable. Thursdays verdict offered a bare measure of justice for the victims relatives, as the three men convicted are believed to be living in Russia or Russian-controlled territory in Ukraine, where they are unlikely to be apprehended. But the judges did clearly highlight the Kremlins role in the crash it armed separatists in eastern Ukraine and instigated their uprising and emphasized Russias responsibility for the tragedy against the backdrop of the current war. The judges found two Russians Igor Girkin, a former colonel in Russias Federal Security Service, and Sergei Dubinsky, a former Russian military intelligence officer guilty of murder and downing a plane. A Ukrainian citizen, Leonid Kharchenko, who led a Russian-backed separatist military unit, was convicted on the same charges. A fourth defendant, Oleg Pulatov, also a former Russian military intelligence officer, was acquitted because he was considered insufficiently involved in the episode. Image Ria van der Steen, who lost her father and stepmother in the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17, after the court's verdict.Credit...Patrick Post/Associated Press Ukraines president, Volodymyr Zelensky, praised the important court decision, but in a message posted on Twitter said that the masterminds behind the attack must also face trial, as the feeling of impunity leads to new crimes. Explosion in Poland: A Ukrainian air-defense missile not a Russian weapon most likely caused a deadly explosion in a Polish village, a top NATO official and Polands president said, easing fears that the military alliance would become more deeply embroiled in the war. A Ukrainian air-defense missile not a Russian weapon most likely caused a deadly explosion in a Polish village, a top NATO official and Polands president said, easing fears that the military alliance would become more deeply embroiled in the war. Retaking Kherson: On Nov. 11, Ukrainian soldiers swept into the southern city of Kherson, seizing a major prize from the retreating Russian army and dealing a bitter blow to President Vladimir V. Putin. Days after the liberation, evidence and accounts of torture are emerging. On Nov. 11, Ukrainian soldiers swept into the southern city of Kherson, seizing a major prize from the retreating Russian army and dealing a bitter blow to President Vladimir V. Putin. Days after the liberation, evidence and accounts of torture are emerging. Infrastructure Attacks: In a relentless and intensifying barrage of missiles, Moscow is destroying Ukraines critical infrastructure, depriving millions of heat, light and clean water. For Ukraine, keeping the lights on as winter looms has become one of its biggest battles. In a relentless and intensifying barrage of missiles, Moscow is destroying Ukraines critical infrastructure, depriving millions of heat, light and clean water. For Ukraine, keeping the lights on as winter looms has become one of its biggest battles. Beta Testing New Weapons: Ukraine has become a testing ground for state-of-the-art weapons and information systems that Western officials predict could shape warfare for generations to come. During the trial, prosecutors presented extensive evidence against the defendants and took the unusual step of publishing some of it online. They relied on a Dutch-led international investigation that gathered missile fragments, cellphone intercepts and witness accounts to establish that the Buk surface-to-air missile system used to shoot down the plane was trucked in from Russia at the request of the separatists and returned the same night. On Thursday, the court said there was very convincing evidence that the Buk missile had been deliberately fired from an agricultural field near Pervomaiskyi, a city in eastern Ukraine. Even if separatist forces had intended to shoot down a Ukrainian military aircraft and not an airliner, the court said, the strike was nevertheless premeditated and constituted a crime. The prosecution also produced recordings of conversations on July 16 and 17, 2014, in which the suspects allegedly discussed the need for a Buk and determined the location to launch it. The conversations captured the suspects initial enthusiasm over the strike and how that changed when they realized that they had shot down a passenger flight. The downing of MH17 occurred against a backdrop of vicious fighting between the separatists and the Ukrainian military after an uprising that deposed the countrys Russian-aligned president in February. Ukrainian warplanes had been operating in the area. The crash scattered bodies and wreckage across fields of wheat and sunflowers, in scenes both harrowing and poignant. Many of the victims were still belted into their seats, and here and there lay a picture book or toy belonging to some among the 98 children on board. Most of the victims were Dutch, but the flight also carried passengers from Australia, Britain, Malaysia and several other countries. Image Wreckage from the downed flight in a sunflower field in Ukraine in 2014.Credit...Mauricio Lima for The New York Times Despite mounting evidence of Russias culpability, efforts to hold the Kremlin accountable were met with a series of implausible counter-explanations and conspiracy theories that focused largely on blaming Ukraine and attacking the legitimacy of the investigation. Among those was an assertion that the C.I.A. had crashed a planeload of bodies into eastern Ukraine to frame Moscow. On Thursday, the court said that these alternative scenarios belonged to the realm of fantasy, and that evidence presented by Russia was repeatedly shown to be forged or false. In a statement, Russias Foreign Ministry said on Thursday that the trial had been politically motivated, adding that it has every chance of becoming one of the most scandalous in the history of legal proceedings with its extensive list of oddities, inconsistencies and dubious arguments of the prosecution. With Russia having vetoed an effort to form a United Nations tribunal for the case, the trial was held at a local criminal court on the outskirts of Amsterdam, in a high-security judicial complex right next to the sprawling Schiphol airport from which MH17 departed in 2014. Coming out of the courthouse shortly after the verdict, Paul Guard, a 44-year-old Australian who lost his parents, Jill and Roger, in the crash thanked prosecutors and the court for what he described as a very meticulous investigation. Truth matters, thats the main message here, he said. As for many of the bereaved, Russias invasion of Ukraine this year looms large for Mr. Guard. The war, he said, brought back difficult memories and a sense that the crash was among the first of many unspeakable tragedies in a now eight-year conflict. It breaks my heart, Mr. Guard said. Every day the war keeps going on, there are more people, innocent people that are no less innocent than my parents, who are just trying to live their lives, who are being killed. Image Judges and lawyers view the reconstructed plane at an air base in the Netherlands last year.Credit...Pool photo by Peter Dejong The day before the verdict, Mr. Guard and his daughter went to a memorial for the MH17 victims in a park a few miles from the courthouse. There, 298 trees, one for each of the dead, have been planted in a ribbon-shaped layout. So many trees there, Mr. Guard said. So many lives that were lost. Several family members said they hoped the verdict would also serve as a form of condemnation of the Russian invasion. Part of justice and part of accountability is the world holding the Russian Federation to account for the atrocity of MH17 and the continued atrocities for the invasion of Ukraine and the war crimes committed against thousands more people, said Jon OBrien, an Australian citizen who lost his son in the crash. Whether the trial could set an example for possible prosecution of Russian war crimes is unclear, however. Marieke de Hoon, assistant professor of international criminal law at the University of Amsterdam, said that the fact that the Dutch court had clearly concluded that Russia had overall control over the breakaway regions from mid-May 2014 onward something that Russia denies is very important for legal proceedings by Ukraine and the Netherlands against Russia in various international courts. In July 2020, the Netherlands submitted a complaint against Russia at the European Court of Human Rights over its involvement in the crash. The European court is expected to rule on the admissibility of this complaint later this year. Ms. de Hoon noted that new types of evidence used in the trial, including open-source information that helped show the movement of the Buk missile launcher through separatist-controlled territory, could emerge as critical tools for prosecutors in subsequent trials. Hopefully, this trial is just the start of something, because we have to prosecute all of those war crimes, Mr. Guard said. And there are many, many, many more war crimes than what weve seen with MH17. Advertisement Continue reading the main story It would make all of our lives simpler if words had one universal, mutually agreed-upon spelling that never changed. While were at it, word meanings, pronunciations, and conjugations could be standardized, too. Thats not how English works, though. Languages need to be able to change to meet the changing needs of the people who use them. Thats why meanings can shift over time, and even simple things like word spellings can change. Enclosed and inclosed are two different spellings of the same word. There was a point in time where you could get away with either version, but today, only one version is standard. Continue reading to learn which it is. What is the Difference Between Inclosed and Enclosed? In this post, I will compare enclosed vs. inclosed. I will outline the correct spelling for the 21st century and use it in a few example sentences so you can see its proper context. Plus, I will show you a helpful memory tool that you can use as a reminder of whether enclosed or inclosed is correct. When to Use Enclosed What does enclosed mean? Enclosed can be a verb or an adjective. As a verb, enclosedis the simple past tense form of the verb enclose, which means to seal something within something else. Someone might enclose a check within an envelope, for instance. Here are a few more examples, We have enclosed an invitation to our wedding ceremony, which will take place at an undecided location on a date we have not set. Enclose the food within a well-sealed container, so that it does not leak on the way home from the restaurant. Sometimes, enclosed is an adjective, where it modifies a noun to describe the quality of being within something else. Here are a few examples: The enclosed check represents payment in full for all services rendered. The enclosed eviction notice says that we need to leave within 72 hours! When to Use Inclosed What does inclosed mean? Inclosed is an alternative spelling of enclosed. Today, it is considered archaic and nonstandard. As you can see from the chart below, it was already falling out of favor by the turn of the 20th century: This chart graphs inclosed vs. enclosed in English book since the year 1800, which means it doesnt include other mediums like newspaper, magazines, periodicals, etc. Still, we can see a long-term usage trend that favors enclosedover inclosed. Inclosed was more popular in British English, but even there it fell dramatically out of favor around 1820. Trick to Remember the Difference Today, you should always use enclosed. Inclosed is no longer considered a standard variant, and many readers would even see it as a misspelling. The same is true for other words related to enclosed: use enclose, encloses, and enclosing instead of inclose, incloses, and inclosing. Since enclose has multiple Es, like envelope, it should be easy to remember that things are enclosed in envelopes. Summary Is inclose or enclose? Enclose and inclose are spelling variants of a word that means to place within as a verb, and placed within as an adjective. Today, enclose is the only standard variant; inclose has fallen by the wayside. To summarize, What Is Section 1231 Gain?credit card in casino Section 1231 property is a type of property, defined by section 1231 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. Section 1231 property is real or depreciable business property held for more than one year. A section 1231 gain from the sale of a property is taxed at the lower capital gains tax rate versus the rate for ordinary income. If the sold property was held for less than one year, the 1231 gain does not apply. Examples of section 1231 properties include buildings, machinery, land, timber, and other natural resources, unharvested crops, cattle, livestock, and leaseholds that are at least one year old. However, section 1231 property does not include poultry and certain other animals, patents, inventions, and inventorysuch as goods held for sale to customers. Key Takeaways Section 1231 property is a type of property, defined by section 1231 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. Section 1231 property is real or depreciable business property held for more than one year. A section 1231 gain from the sale of a property is taxed at the lower capital gains tax rate versus the rate for ordinary income. Section 1231 Property Understanding Section 1231 Gain 1:26 Broadly speaking, if gains on property fitting Section 1231's definition are more than the adjusted basis and amount of depreciation, the income is counted as capital gains, and as a result, it is taxed at a lower rate than ordinary income. However, when losses are recorded on section 1231 property whereby the loss is classified as an ordinary loss, it's 100% deductible against their income. Ordinarily, if income was qualified as capital gains, so would any losses, which can only be deductible up to $3,000 for the tax year, and any losses in excess of that figure would be arrived at in the following year. The section 1231 law makes it, so taxpayers and business owners get the best of both worlds. Types of Section 1231 Transactions The following are considered 1231 transactions under IRS regulations: Casualties and thefts If you have held a property for more than one year and it is adversely affected by theft or casualty (loss or damage from an unexpected or rare event). If you have held a property for more than one year and it is adversely affected by theft or casualty (loss or damage from an unexpected or rare event). Condemnations If a property was held for more than a year, and held as a capital asset relating to trade or business. If a property was held for more than a year, and held as a capital asset relating to trade or business. Sale or exchange of real property, personal property that is depreciable If the property was held for more than a year and was used in trade or in a business (usually generating revenue via rent or royalties). If the property was held for more than a year and was used in trade or in a business (usually generating revenue via rent or royalties). Leaseholds either sold or exchanged If held for a year and used in trade or business. If held for a year and used in trade or business. Cattle and horses sold or exchanged If held for two years and used for dairy, draft, breeding, or sporting purposes. If held for two years and used for dairy, draft, breeding, or sporting purposes. Unharvested crops sold or exchanged If held for one year and then sold, exchanged, or converted involuntarily and then not reacquired through any means. If held for one year and then sold, exchanged, or converted involuntarily and then not reacquired through any means. Disposal or Cutting of timber, coal, or iron ore If treated as a sale. Section 1231 property is related to section 1245 property and section 1250 property. Section 1231 defines the tax treatment that the gains and losses of property fitting the definitions of sections 1245 and 1250 on form 4797. Section 1231 vs. Section 1245 Property Section 1245 property cannot include buildings or structural components unless the structure is designed specifically to handle the stresses and demands of a specific use, and cant be used for any other use, in which case it can be considered closely related to the property it houses. Section 1245 property is any asset that is depreciable or subject to amortization and meets any of the following descriptions in Publication 544 (2018), Sales and Other Dispositions of Assets: Personal property - Generally defined as property other than real estate Other tangible property - This would include machinery or facility that play a key role in production, extraction, or furnishing of services, as well as certain research facilities, or a facility for the bulk storage of fungible commodities. This does not include buildings that are included as storage for equipment but would conceivably include a facility that stored goods temporarily before they were packaged and moved. Single-purpose structures built for the sole purpose of agricultural or horticultural use - This does not include a barn but would include silos or grain storage bins. Facilities used to store and distribute petroleum or primary products of petroleum except for buildings and those buildings structural components. Tax Treatment on Section 1245 Property Gains If the sale of section 1245 property is less than the depreciation or amortization on the property, or if the gains on the disposition of the property are less than the original cost, gains are recorded as normal income and are taxed as such. If the gain on the disposition of the section 1245 property is greater than that original cost, then those gains are taxed as capital gains. If the section 1245 property was acquired through a like-kind exchange, the amounts you claimed on the property you used in the exchange are included in the depreciation or amortization amount, as would be the amounts a previous owner of section 1245 property claimed if the adjusted basis was used as a reference to your own. Section 1250 Property The IRS defines section 1250 property as all real property, such as land and buildings, that are subject to allowance for depreciation, as well as a leasehold of land or section 1250 property. Tax Treatment on Section 1250 Property Gains Much like with section 1245 property, gains on section 1250 property qualify as ordinary income if they are less than or equal to the amount the property has depreciated, and the gains exceed the depreciation then the income is treated as capital gains. During the year of the sale, depreciation recapture is taxable as ordinary income if the sale of the property is executed in an installment method. While section 1231 was introduced in the 1954 IRS Code, the content of the tax code referring to gains received upon deposition of depreciable and real property was introduced in 1939 in section 117(j). Section 1231 Gains and Capital Gains The IRS handles the taxation of a section 1231 gain as a "regular" capital gain when there is income, but not when there is a loss. Capital gains tax is a tax on the profit when you sell something thats increased in value. Its the gain you make thats taxed, not the amount of money you receive. Example of Section 1231 Property Let's say a building is bought at $2 million and then has another $2 million put into it in the form of refurbishment (updating A/C units, windows, and a new roof) with an amortization rate of 50% over 10 years. So, let's say then that 10 years after the building had $2 million put into it, it is sold at a price of $6 million. The recorded gains on that sale would be $4 million, not $2 because the cost of refurbishment would be capitalized on the books. That $4 million sale would be taxed as capital gains because the property was sold for more than the amount that it had depreciated. Where Does Section 1231 Gain Get Reported? IRS Form 4797, Sales of Business Property, is used to report the section 1231 gains on a sold property. What Is the Difference Between 1231 and 1250 Property? Section 1231 applies to all depreciable business assets owned for more than one year, while section 1250 (and also 1245) provides guidance on how different asset categories are taxed when sold at a gain or loss. All property used in a trade or business is considered section 1231 property and, for taxation purposes, either section 1245 or 1250 applies, depending on the propertys characteristics. What Is the Difference Between 1231 Gain and Capital Gain? When it comes to taxation there is no difference under certain circumstances. if gains on property fitting Section 1231's definition are more than the adjusted basis and amount of depreciation, the income is counted as capital gains, and as a result, it is taxed at a lower rate than ordinary income. The Bottom Line Section 1231 gains are gains from depreciable property and real property used in a business and held for more than one year. Such gains are considered "tax-friendly" as they have traditionally enjoyed a favored status in the tax code. Net Section 1231 gains for the taxable year are treated as long-term capital gains, but a net Section 1231 loss is considered an ordinary loss. On Sept. 7, 1996, Tupac was targeted and killed in a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas. Horniness packs side-by-side by with a deeper loneliness along the walls of The Park. Those snakes attacked unwitting passers-by, or invaded homes and hotels. A step-by-step plan to break from your various technology addictions. They logged every incident and released depressing day-by-day accounts of the carnage. ISIS Fighters Are Killing Faster than Statisticians Can Count|Peter Schwartzstein|December 5, 2014|DAILY BEAST All along the highways and by-paths of our literature we encounter much that pertains to this "queen of plants." Tobacco; Its History, Varieties, Culture, Manufacture and Commerce|E. R. Billings. John was baptizing at a large pool called non-by-Saleim,probably allegorical, meaning Fountain of Repose. Solomon and Solomonic Literature|Moncure Daniel Conway The sewing-machine made a resounding clatter in the room; it was of a ponderous, by-gone make. The Awakening and Selected Short Stories|Kate Chopin Mr. Spurrell came down to see a horse, and we shall be very glad to have the benefit of his opinion by-and-by. Punch, or the London Charivari, Volume 107, November 3, 1894|Various Fan Changlong and Xu Qiliang were appointed vice chairmen of the Central Military Commission (CMC) of the Communist Party of China (CPC) on Sunday. The seventh Plenary Session of the 17th CPC Central Committee made the announcement in a communique upon the closure of the four-day meeting that the CMC was augmented to include Fan and Xu, both members of the 17th CPC Central Committee, as vice-chairmen. General Fan is currently commander and deputy party chief of the Jinan Military Area Command. He was born in Dandong city of northeast Chinas Liaoning Province in May 1947, and joined the CPC in September 1969. Fan joined the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) in January 1969, and graduated from the Party School of the CPC Central Committee. From January 1969 to September 1985, he served in the artillery regiment of the 16th Corps of the PLA Army. From 1985 to 1990, Fan served as chief of staff of the 48th Division of the 16th Group Army and in September 1990 he was promoted to commander of the 46th Division of the 16th Group Army. In 1995, he was promoted to commander of the 16th Group Army and in 2000 to chief of staff of the Shenyang Military Area Command. In December 2003, he was appointed to be an Assistant Chief of General Staff of the PLA and in 2004 he became the commander and deputy party chief of the Jinan Military Area Command. Fan was an alternate member the 16th CPC Central Committee and has been a member of the 17th CPC Central Committee. General Xu was born in March 1950 in east Chinas Shandong Province and joined the CPC in July 1967. He joined the PLA in July 1966 and graduated from the fifth aviation school of the PLA Air Force, holding a junior-college diploma. Xu, an Air Force General, is a member of the Central Military Commission of the Peoples Republic of China. Beginning his military career as a flying cadet in the first preparatory school of the PLA Air Force, Xu served as the Air Force Commander for more than five years before Sundays promotion. After a study period of roughly three months, Xu was transferred to the PLA Armys Ace troop, the 38th Corps, in 1966 to receive basic training and back to the Air Force at the end of 1967 to learn flying. Xu became an Air Force pilot in August 1969 and was promoted to be the chief of the independent squadron of the Air Forces 26th Division in 1976. Xu served as deputy commander of the 26th Division and later the commander from 1980 to 1984, a period during which he also studied in a senior course of the Air Forces Command Institute. Xu was promoted to chief of staff of the Air Forces command post in Shanghai in 1985 and then became a cadet to the PLAs National Defense University and graduated in 1988. After that, he was promoted to commander of the Air Forces Eighth Corps in 1990, the Air Forces deputy chief of staff in 1993 and chief of staff in 1994. Xu took two short-term courses in the PLAs National Defense University in 1994 and 1998. He served as deputy commander of the PLAs Shenyang Military Area Command from 1999 to 2004, during which he took another short course for generals in the PLAs National Defense University. Xu was promoted to the PLAs deputy chief of general staff in 2004 and appointed to serve as commander of the PLAs Air Force in 2007, when he was also recruited by the CPCs Central Military Commission at the first Plenary session of the CPCs 17th Central Committee. Xu was promoted to an Air Force full general in 2007 before he was commissioned the Air Force commander. Xu was an alternate member of the CPCs 14th and 15th Central Committees and a member of the CPCs 16th Central Committee and has been a member of the 17th CPC Central Committee. The plenary session was held from Nov.1 to 4 in Beijing. Xinhua China appoints two new vice chairmen of Central Military Commissionadded by chinatimesonline on View all posts by chinatimesonline What Is the Marginal Rate of Transformation (MRT)?fox bet casino app fox super 6 mlb The marginal rate of transformation (MRT) is the number of units or amount of a good that must be forgone to create or attain one unit of another good. It is the number of units of good Y that will be foregone to produce an extra unit of good X while keeping the factors of production and technology constant. Key Takeaways MRT is the number of units that must be forgone to create or attain a unit of another good, considered the opportunity cost to produce one extra unit of something. MRT is also considered the absolute value of the slope of the production possibilities frontier. The marginal rate of substitution focuses on demand, while MRT focuses on supply. Formula and Calculation of the Marginal Rate of Transformation (MRT) MRT = M C x M C y where: M C x = money needed to produce another unit of X M C y = rate of increase by cutting production of Y \begin{ aligned} &\text{ MRT} = \frac{ MC_x}{ MC_y} \\ &\textbf{ where:}\\ &MC_x=\text{ money needed to produce another unit of X}\\ &MC_y=\text{ rate of increase by cutting production of Y}\\ \end{ aligned} MRT=MCyMCxwhere:MCx=money needed to produce another unit of XMCy=rate of increase by cutting production of Y So, the ratio tells you how much Y you need to give up to produce another X. The marginal rate of transformation (MRT) is calculated as the marginal cost of producing another unit of a good divided by the resources freed up by cutting production of another unit. The MRT is the marginal cost of production for good X in the formula above, divided by the marginal cost of production for good Y. What the Marginal Rate of Transformation (MRT) Can Tell You The marginal rate of transformation (MRT) allows economists to analyze the opportunity costs to produce one extra unit of something. In this case, the opportunity cost is represented in the lost production of another specific good. The marginal rate of transformation is tied to the production possibility frontier (PPF), which displays the output potential for two goods using the same resources. MRT is the absolute value of the slope of the production possibility frontier. For each point on the frontier, which is displayed as a curved line, there is a different marginal rate of transformation. This rate is based on the economics of producing the two goods. It is possible to calculate the MRT for a variety of different goods, but the rates will differ depending on the goods compared. It follows that the MRT of X with respect to Y will usually be different from the MRT of X with respect to Z. Producing more of one good means making less of the other because the resources are efficiently allocated at points on the production possibility frontier. In other words, resources used to produce one good are diverted from other goods, which means less of the other goods will be created. This tradeoff is measured by the marginal rate of transformation (MRT). Generally speaking, the opportunity cost rises (as does the MRT's absolute value) as one moves along (down) the PPF. As more of one good is produced, the opportunity cost (in units) of the other good increases. This phenomenon is similar to the law of diminishing returns. Example of How to Use the Marginal Rate of Transformation (MRT) The MRT is the rate at which a small amount of Y can be foregone for a small amount of X. The rate is the opportunity cost of a unit of each good in terms of another. As the number of units of X relative to Y changes, the rate of transformation may also change. For perfect substitute goods, the MRT will equal one and remain constant. As an example, if baking one less cake frees up enough resources to bake three more loaves of bread, the rate of transformation is 3 to 1 at the margin. Or consider that it costs $3 to make a cake. Meanwhile, $1 can be saved by not making a loaf of bread. Thus, the MRT is 3, or $3 divided by $1. As another example, consider a student who faces a tradeoff that involves giving up some free time to get better grades in a particular class by studying more. The MRT is the rate at which the students grade increases as free time is given up for studying, which is given by the absolute value of the slope of the production possibility frontier curve. The Difference Between the MRT and the Marginal Rate of Substitution (MRS) While the marginal rate of transformation (MRT) is similar to the marginal rate of substitution (MRS), these two concepts are not the same. The marginal rate of substitution focuses on demand, while MRT focuses on supply. The marginal rate of substitution highlights how many units of Y would be considered by a given consumer group to be compensation for one less unit of X. For example, a consumer who prefers oranges to apples may only find equal satisfaction if she receives three apples instead of one orange. Limitations of Using the Marginal Rate of Transformation (MRT) The marginal rate of transformation (MRT) is generally not constant and may need to be recalculated frequently. Furthermore, goods will not be distributed efficiently if MRT doesnt equal MRS. Barry Diller, billionaire and chairman of IAC, MGM Resorts largest shareholder, expressed his doubt regarding the ongoing deal with Entain. According to Dillers statement for the Financial Times, he is skeptical that the US casino group will successfully take over UK gambling business Entain. He said that It would be great if MGM could do this with Entain but whether it happens or not, I am sceptical and if it doesnt, I am sanguine. I am absolutely sure we will be in a leadership position whatever, Part of MGMs proposal are shares that Entain rejected. In case the UK gambling company prefers a cash alternative, IAC is ready to back up the additional proposal by investing $1bn. Such a potential offer values owner of Ladbrokes and Coral brands at about 8bn. Last year Entain rejected an offer of $10 billion. MGMs latest attempt to take over UK gambling company was backed up with another proposal for $11 billion, which was rejected ones again. Entain explained that such an offer undervalues the company. In the meantime, an important representativeof one of the top Entain shareholders, Standart Life Aberdeen, Wes McCoy backed up the Entains board position on the deal by saying that they want to see proper value for the fact that Entain is so strong digitally in all its jurisdictions. Barry Dillers Media Empire Barry Diller and his company IAC have a long history of buying and expanding online businesses. The company owns the brand Ask.com and The Daily Beast along with 30 moredigital media brands. MGM Resorts is yet another important investment for Dillers IAC of about $1bn building a 12 per cent stake. The chairman himself stated that it is a golden opportunity to own a meaningful piece of a pre-eminent brand in a large category with great potential to move online. He pointed out that there is a good logic behind combining MGM and Entains brand. A possible future partnership between the two companies would combine two powerful players in the gambling world that would provide online casino and sports betting experience to their customers. Diller even suggested that if another acquirer appears, there is a possible option for a joint venture. Such a suggestion was described by some as a poison pill for it makes Entain a less attractive target for other potential prospects. The reason is that a joint venture would stop Entain from keeping its steady position on the US market, which, according to specialist, could roll out as the largest legal gambling market. As a conclusion, Mr. Diller expressed his firm belief that whatever the outcome of the Entain deal, the opportunities in front of MGM are still a lot. Source:Barry Diller skeptical on chances of MGM-Entain deal success , Financial Times, January 11, 2021 03:02 Meta,ship it poker cruises the parent company of Facebook, has unveiled its latest Virtual Reality product the Meta Quest Pro headset. The company also underscored its mission to expand the reach of the metaverse. Learn more. For more, check out our exclusive content on CGTN Now and subscribe to our weekly newsletter, The China Report. What Is an Impression?lucky eagle casino chehalis An impression is a metric used to quantify the number of digital views or engagements of a piece of content, usually an advertisement, digital post, or a web page. Impressions are also referred to as an "ad view." They are used in online advertising, which often pays on a per-impression basis. Counting impressions is essential to how web advertising is accounted and paid for in search engine marketing, as well as measuring the performance of social media campaigns. Impressions are not a measure of whether an advertisement has been clicked on, but how many times it was displayed or had potential "eyeballs" on it, which leads to some debate as to how accurate the metric is. Key Takeaways Impressions are used to quantify the number of digital views or engagements of a piece of content, usually an advertisement, digital post, or a web page. Counting impressions can often fall in a gray area, such as whether this includes duplicate views, interactions from bots, or if impressions are even an effective way to measure the success of a digital marketing campaign. Technically speaking, ad servers provide a barely visible image (or "pixel") that can be found on each publisher page. When a page with that pixel image loads, that is when an impression is made. How Impressions Work Broadly, one impression is equal to each occurrence of a web page, ad, or piece of content being found and loaded. Because it is accessible to both measure and understand, it has become the most convenient and economical way to determine whether an advertisement is being seen or not. But exactly how that figure is interpreted is up for debate. Some online advertising experts believe that there is no exact way to count impressions since a count can be skewed by a single person registering the same ad in several page views, for example. There are several more ways for total impression numbers to be skewed, which leads to advertisers to view any impression figure with a bit of skepticism. In general, most advertisers and publishers decide beforehand how impressions are counted and accounted for. Advertisers may decide on whether a campaign is successful or not based on another form of reporting, such as engagement (broadly, how an ad viewer interacts with an ad). Impression Accounting Frequently, impressions are measured by cost per mille (CPM), where mille refers to 1,000 impressions (or cost per thousand). A banner ad might have a CPM of $5, meaning that the website owner receives $5 every time an ad on his website is displayed 1,000 times. The owner of a website may be paid for each ad impression. Other advertising arrangements may only pay the website owner when a visitor clicks on the ad, or clicks on the ad and makes a purchase. Typically, advertisers pay less for an ad campaign based solely on impressions and more for campaigns based on click-throughs and conversions. The reason for this difference in pay rates is that an ad that causes its viewer to take action resulting in a sale is more valuable to the advertiser than one that does not. Still, impressions are useful when running public relations campaigns that are designed to build an image or create awareness about a company or product. The exact way impressions are counted is somewhat technical. Ad servers provide a barely visible image (or "pixel") that can be found on each publisher page. When a page with that pixel image loads, an impression is made. Impression Fraud Several things can skew impression counts. For one, estimates have that around 60% of all web traffic is from bots. Impression counts make no distinction between a human ad viewer or a bot. Ads can also fail to load, or the incorrect ad may load. Such errors may or may not be accounted for. There is also outright fraud, with unscrupulous website developers using several methods to game the system (one estimate is that a quarter of the online advertising market is fraudulent). Nonetheless, impressions remain a popular way to measure engagement, whether in advertising, social media, or analyzing web traffic. Lujiazui Photo:VCG Bloomberg on Monday sketched out four scenarios for China's economy in the next decade and came to a basic conclusion that China likely wouldn't overtake the US within the time period previously expected by the outside world. Speculating when China's GDP will surpass that of the US has been one of the most interesting topics for US and Western public opinion in recent years. But most of the time they are talking to themselves: asking a question and then answering it themselves,reversing themselves, arguing within themselves, etc.The exclamation that "China could overtake the US in GDP" first came from the US, which triggered and stimulated widespread anxiety in US society. Now the forecast that "the overtaking time" will be delayed or even that "China's GDP will not overtake that of the US" have also spread from the US. Curiously, this has not eased the nervousness of Washington elites in the face of China's rapid development. They are the ones who say China "can," and they are the ones who say China "cannot" as well. To a certain extent, the topic itself is an embodiment of some Americans' inner struggle.Today, China's development strategy focuses on continuous self-transcendence, and does not aim to surpass the US or any other country. A country's GDP growth rate is ultimately its own internal affair. Many Chinese do not understand why Washington takes China's GDP so seriously. The rise of China's GDP ranking, including whether it will surpass the US to become the No.1, is fundamentally a natural outcome, and the Chinese are not worried about gains or losses.Compared with GDP figures, the pragmatic Chinese people care more about whether their living standards are rising, environment is improving, and their development opportunities are increasing. They work hard day after day for achieving these goals. Under the guarantee of state policies, such common, real and modest aspirations, combined with the hard work and ability of the Chinese people, become the huge engine driving China's economic growth. China's development philosophy is people-centered, and emphasizes high-quality development, which means that quality, not quantity, is the focus. Quantity is, of course, important, but we cannot take "GDP growth as the sole criterion for success." Over the years, China's economic development has become more balanced, coordinated, and sustainable. This is an upgrade in terms of "quality" and a result of Chinese people's concerted efforts and active pursuit.In other words, China's development is never about surpassing or replacing anyone or competing with anyone to become the world leader. It is instead a race with itself. For today's China, how to focus on solving the problem of unbalanced and insufficient development is far more critical than "comparing" with a great power. The 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) outlined a strategic plan to build China into a great modern socialist country in all respects, and the upcoming 20th CPC National Congress will envision the "two-step" strategic plan for building China into a great modern socialist country, and "focus the efforts on addressing inadequacies, strengthening areas of weakness, consolidating fundamentals and giving full play to strengths." From this, we can see that China has a consistent and firm attitude of focusing on its own development.There is no denying that GDP is a crucial economic indicator that can allow us to see where we are in general and make development plans accordingly. But it is more important to translate GDP into a sense of gain, happiness, and security for the people. As for being second or first in the world in terms of data, it cannot replace people's feelings about their livelihoods, nor is it the ultimate goal of development. At the end of the day, Chinese people have always been trying to live their lives as well as possible and earn the respect they deserve in the international community. We do not bully others, and others should not try to do that to us. In the era of globalization, such countries are the best partners for mutually beneficial cooperation.The fear of being overtaken by China in terms of GDP has become a sore point for Washington, or its demon. To slow down China's development, Washington even risks damaging itself, such as pursuing "decoupling" from China. In fact, there is no need to do so, because China is committed to making a big cake that benefits its own people and, at the same time, provides more development opportunities for the world, including the US. As long as the US lets go of its obsessions and overcomes its sore point, it will apparently see the massive potential for win-win cooperation with China. In an era of rapid technological advancement,bonanza casino free play the realm of sports betting undergoes a remarkable metamorphosis. Leading the charge in this revolution is online betting software, driving the industry to new frontiers and surpassing previous limits. Cutting-Edge Algorithms In the realm of online casinos, cutting-edge algorithms are revolutionizing the landscape by harnessing the immense power of data analysis. Online casino software incorporates advanced algorithms that delve into vast amounts of data, extracting valuable insights to enhance the gaming experience. These algorithms scrutinize player behaviors, game patterns and transaction histories to identify trends and optimize game offerings. By leveraging the power of data analysis, online casino software can personalize gameplay, offer tailored recommendations and even detect potential fraud or suspicious activities. These algorithms continuously evolve, adapting to new information and refining their analyses to provide a seamless and engaging casino experience. Image: Pexels.com Machine Learning Revolution The advent of machine learning has brought about a revolution in the realm of online betting, as it enables software systems to adapt and refine their predictions with remarkable accuracy. Machine learning algorithms embedded within online betting platforms continuously learn from vast datasets, including historical data, player statistics and market trends. By analyzing patterns, identifying correlations and detecting subtle indicators, these algorithms evolve over time, enhancing their predictive capabilities. Through this iterative process, machine learning algorithms can adapt to changing conditions, such as team performance, player injuries and other influential factors. This revolution in betting technology empowers bettors with more accurate and informed predictions, enabling them to make strategic wagering decisions. Personalization in Betting Betting platforms are now equipped with advanced personalization features that allow them to tailor the experience to individual preferences. By leveraging user data, such as betting history, preferred sports and betting patterns, online betting platforms can deliver customized recommendations and targeted promotions. Whether it's suggesting relevant markets, providing real-time updates on favorite teams or offering personalized odds, the goal is to create a unique and tailored experience for each bettor. Personalization not only enhances user engagement but also facilitates more informed betting decisions by presenting relevant information that aligns with individual interests and strategies. The ability to personalize the platform to cater to individual preferences showcases the ongoing evolution of online betting, where technology enables a more personalized and engaging betting journey for every user. The Role of Big Data With the immense volume of data generated from various sources, such as user interactions, betting history and sports analytics, big data analytics has become a powerful tool for uncovering hidden patterns and trends. By applying advanced analytics techniques to this wealth of information, online betting platforms can gain valuable insights into user behavior, market dynamics and sports performance. Big data analytics can reveal patterns that were previously unseen, identify correlations between variables and even predict future outcomes with a higher degree of accuracy. These insights enable platforms to enhance their offerings, optimize odds and deliver more personalized experiences to users. The role of big data in online betting represents a significant shift in how information is utilized, empowering operators to make data-driven decisions and offer a more engaging and rewarding betting experience to their users. Requirements Category: Casino Blog D.C.L. New Word List Save This niagara falls casino hoursWord! Save ThisWord! abbreviationDoctor of Civil Law. Words nearby D.C.L. British Dictionary definitions for D.C.L. DCL abbreviation forDoctor of Civil Law QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!QuestionDCC, DCF, D.Ch.E., DCHP, DCIS, D.C.L., D.C.M., DCMG, DCMS, D.Cn.L., DCPADictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 Facebook Facebook Twitter Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College Neon lights are colorful, bright, and reliable, so you see them used in signs, displays, and even airport landing strips. Have you ever wondered how they work and how different colors of light are produced? Key Takeaways: Neon Lights A neon light contains a tiny amount of neon gas under low pressure. Electricity provides energy to strip electrons away from neon atoms, ionizing them. Ions are attracted to terminals of the lamp, completing the electric circuit. Light is produced when neon atoms gain enough energy to become excited. When an atom returns to a lower energy state, it releases a photon (light). How a Neon Light Works You can make a fake neon sign yourself, but real neon lights consist of a glass tube filled with a small amount (low pressure) of neon gas. Neon is used because it is one of the noble gases. One characteristic of these elements is that each atom has a filled electron shell, so the atoms don't react with other atoms and it takes a lot of energy to remove an electron. There is an electrode at either end of the tube. A neon light actually works using either AC (alternating current) or DC (direct current), but if DC current is used, the glow is only seen around one electrode. AC current is used for most neon lights you see. When an electric voltage is applied to the terminals (about 15,000 volts), enough energy is supplied to remove an outer electron from the neon atoms. If there is not enough voltage, there will not be enough kinetic energy for the electrons to escape their atoms and nothing will happen. The positively charged neon atoms (cations) are attracted to the negative terminal, while the free electrons are attracted to the positive terminal. These charged particles, called plasma, complete the electric circuit of the lamp. So where does the light come from? Atoms in the tube are moving around, hitting each other. They transfer energy to each other, plus a lot of heat is produced. While some electrons escape their atoms, others gain enough energy to become "excited". This means they have a higher energy state. Being excited is like climbing a ladder, where an electron can be on a particular rung of the ladder, not just anywhere on its length. The electron can return to its original energy (ground state) by releasing that energy as a photon (light). The color of the light that is produced depends on how far apart the excited energy is from the original energy. Like the distance between rungs of a ladder, this is a set interval. So, each excited electron of an atom releases a characteristic wavelength of photon. In other words, each excited noble gas releases a characteristic color of light. For neon, this is a reddish-orange light. How Other Colors of Light Are Produced You see lots of different colors of signs, so you might wonder how this works. There are two main ways of producing other colors of light besides the orange-red of neon. One way is to use another gas or a mixture of gases to produce colors. As mentioned earlier, each noble gas releases a characteristic color of light. For example, helium glows pink, krypton is green, and argon is blue. If the gases are mixed, intermediate colors can be produced. The other way to produce colors is to coat the glass with a phosphor or other chemical that will glow a certain color when it is energized. Because of the range of coatings available, most modern lights no longer use neon, but are fluorescent lamps that rely on a mercury/argon discharge and a phosphor coating. If you see a clear light glowing in a color, it's a noble gas light. Another way to change the color of the light, although it's not used in light fixtures, is to control the energy supplied to the light. While you usually see one color per element in a light, there are actually different energy levels available to excited electrons, which correspond to a spectrum of light that element can produce. Brief History of the Neon Light Heinrich Geissler (1857) Geissler is considered the Father of Fluorescent Lamps. His "Geissler Tube" was a glass tube with electrodes at either end containing a gas at partial vacuum pressure. He experimented arcing current through various gases to produce light. The tube was the basis for the neon light, mercury vapor light, fluorescent light, sodium lamp, and metal halide lamp. William Ramsay & Morris W. Travers (1898) Ramsay and Travers made a neon lamp, but neon was extremely rare, so the invention was not cost-effective. Daniel McFarlan Moore (1904) Moore commercially installed the "Moore Tube", which ran an electric arc through nitrogen and carbon dioxide to produce light. Georges Claude (1902) What Is Scope?play free online cleopatra slot machine Scope refers to the combined objectives and requirements needed to complete a project. The term is often used in project management as well as in consulting. Properly defining the scope of a project allows managers to estimate costs and the time required to finish the project. That's what makes scope management such an important part of a businessit saves both time and money. There are generally two different types of scope in project management. These are project and product scope. Key Takeaways Scope outlines the time and cost of a business project. The term is generally used in project management. Project scope encompasses all the work needed for the project, while product scope only focuses on the end result. Scope creep is when uncontrollable changes extend the project deadlines and require effective project management. Properly defining the scope of a project allows managers to estimate costs and the time required to finish the project. Understanding Scope Scope is a term used in project management. Project management involves the planning and organization of a company's resources to complete a specific task, event, or action and is usually a one-time event. Scope describes the required processes and resources to complete a project or produce a product. By identifying and recognizing different variables of a project through scope management, companies are able to save money. Properly defining the scope of a project allows managers to estimate costs and the time required to finish the project. As mentioned above, there are two types of scopeproduct scope and project scope. The product scope is a way to identify a product or service's functions, while the project scope highlights everything needed to deliver that product or service. In short, product scope represents the functional requirements while project scope is the how-to part of project management. A deliverable can include any objective or milestone within a project such as the creation of products, services, or processes. Additionally, it can consist of incremental changes, staged across the project plan used to govern or assess the pace of the projects progress. Product Scope vs. Project Scope Product Scope Product scope identifies the characteristics and functions of a product or service. These characteristics include physical features such as size and materials, as well as functional specifications. Functional considerations include what the product is designed to do and its purpose or end-use. Product scope focuses on the result or the actual offering. This is the final product or service. Product scope may also refer to a service or other item for customer use. Product scope often considers how to evaluate whether the object is on track for completion and whether it meets the expected outcome. Project Scope Conversely, the project scope encompasses all the work needed to deliver a product or service. In short, the project scope describes how the mission will be accomplished. It includes identifying and documenting the project's goals, deliverables, tasks, project members, deadlines, and milestones. Documentation consists of the scope statement, statement of work, and a breakdown of the work structure. The project scope also outlines the project's limits by specifying what is not included within the scope of the plan. It can incorporate information about the project's budget or available resources. Information regarding the project schedule, as well as the assignment of tasks, may also be included in the project scope. Workgroups will often be assigned listing the internal or external personnel who will be involved with the project. Special Considerations Uncontrollable changes that extend deadlines are known as scope creep. Extended deadlines may change the original requirements of the project's scope. As the project progresses, small changes to the original plan occur, expanding the scope from the initial limits regarding budget and time. Small changes can lead to additional changes, resulting in a cascading effect of further considerations and requirements. Effective project management considers the possibility of scope creep and incorporates strategies to mitigate it. Understanding the vision or primary objective, proper initial planning, as well as devising and adopting approaches to avoid scope creep from the outset are ways to prevent scope creep. 7-11% According to the Project Management Institute, the combined project management costs for all phases of a project total somewhere between 711% of the project's true interest cost. Visualizing a Project's Scope Project managers use a variety of tools to plan and communicate a project's scope. Two popular tools to do this are the Gantt chart and the program evaluation review technique (PERT). The Gantt chart is a graphical depiction of a project schedule. It is a bar chart that shows the start and finish dates of several elements of a project that include resources, milestones, tasks, and dependencies. Henry Gantt, an American mechanical engineer, designed the Gantt chart. The program evaluation review technique (PERT) chart is a visual representation of a series of events that must occur within the scope of a projects lifetime. A PERT chart allows managers to evaluate the time and resources necessary to manage a project. This evaluation includes the ability to track required assets during any stage of production in the course of the entire project. Scope FAQs What Does Scope Mean? In the business world, scope refers to the combined objectives and requirements needed to complete a project. Scope is a term commonly used by project managers. What Is an Example of the Economies of Scope? Company ABC wants to increase its product line and remodels its manufacturing building to produce a variety of electronic devices, such as laptops, tablets, and phones. Since the cost of operating the manufacturing building is spread out across a variety of products, the average total cost of production decreases. The costs of producing each electronic device in another building would be greater than just using a single manufacturing building to produce multiple products. What Is the Difference Between Scope and Scale? Economies of scope focus on the average total cost of production of a variety of goods. In contrast, economies of scale focus on the cost advantage that arises when there is a higher level of production for a single good. What Is the Scope of a Project? The scope of a project is a detailed outline which encompasses all the work needed to deliver a product or service. This includes the project's goals, deliverables, tasks, project members, deadlines, and milestones. How Do You Write a Project Scope Statement? A proper project scope statement should include the following elements: an introduction stating the purpose of the project, the deliverables required to complete the project, a determination of the project's milestones, as well as any constraints or exclusions. The Bottom Line In order to properly execute the rollout of a new project or product, it is essential to have a firm grasp of the project's scope. With its comprehensive look at a business's operations and assets, scope is a concept of the utmost importance to project managers and businesses as a whole. Performers dance to welcome the passengers arriving in Kashgar, northwest China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, July 25, 2022. (Photo: China News Service/Zhang Shan) The UN Human Rights Council's vote against a US-led draft decision on Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region showed that the international community would not be easily misled despite pressure from the US and some other Western countries, said a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson in a late statement on Thursday.The international community is clearly aware that the ultimate motive of the US and some other Western countries behind their Xinjiang narrative is to contain China and does not like this pattern of using human rights as a pretext to meddle in other countries' internal affairs, said the spokesperson.The remarks came after the 51st session of the Human Rights Council on Thursday voted down a draft decision on Xinjiang region, which was pushed by the US and some other Western allies.Despite pressure from the US and its allies, the draft decision ended up unsupported by the majority of the Human Rights Council membership, especially many members from the developing world. The agenda has again failed to gain international support, said the spokesperson.The issues related to Xinjiang are not about human rights. They are about countering violent terrorism, radicalization and separatism. Thanks to strenuous efforts, there has been no violent terrorist incident in Xinjiang for over five consecutive years. The human rights of people of all ethnic backgrounds in Xinjiang are protected like never before, the foreign ministry spokesperson said."For some time now, the US and some other Western countries have been misinforming the public about Xinjiang region and seeking political manipulation in the name of human rights simply to smear China's image and contain China's development," said the spokesperson.The spokesperson stressed that these countries have ignored facts and truths about Xinjiang region, noting that in recent years, nearly 100 countries, including many Islamic countries, have spoken out openly in support of China's just position on issues related to Xinjiang and have expressed opposition toward using these issues to interfere in China's internal affairs.The issues that the Human Rights Council truly needs to focus on are the serious human rights violations concerning the US, the UK and some Western forces, including systemic racism and racial discrimination, the rights of refugees and migrants and rampant gun violence, said the spokesperson.China urged the US and other Western forces to abandon political manipulation, disinformation and suppression, return to the track of dialogue and cooperation, and make real contributions to the global advancement of human rights. What Is Import Substitution Industrialization (ISI)?bengals spread casino poker dealer Import substitution industrialization (ISI) is a theory of economics typically adhered to by developing countries or emerging market nations that seek to decrease their dependence on developed countries. The approach targets the protection and incubation of newly formed domestic industries to fully develop sectors so that the goods produced are competitive with imported goods. Under ISI theory, the process makes local economies, and their nations, self-sufficient. Key Takeaways Import substitution industrialization is an economic theory adhered to by developing countries that wish to decrease their dependence on developed countries. ISI targets the protection and incubation of newly formed domestic industries to fully develop sectors so the goods produced are competitive with imported goods. Developing countries began to reject ISI policy in the 1980s and 1990s. Understanding Import Substitution Industrialization (ISI) The primary goal of the implemented substitution industrialization theory is to protect, strengthen, and grow local industries using a variety of tactics, including tariffs, import quotas, and subsidized government loans. Countries implementing this theory attempt to shore up production channels for each stage of a product's development. ISI runs directly counter to the comparative advantage concept that occurs when countries specialize in producing goods at a lower opportunity cost and export them. The History of Import Substitution Industrialization (ISI) Theory ISI refers to the development economics policies of the 20thcentury. However, the theory itself has been advocated since the 18thcentury and was supported by economists such as Alexander Hamilton and Friedrich List. Countries initially implemented ISI policies in the global south (Latin America, Africa, and parts of Asia), where the intention was to develop self-sufficiency by creating an internal market within each country. The success of ISI policies was facilitated by subsidizing prominent industries, such as power generation and agriculture, and encouraging nationalization and protectionist trade policies. Nevertheless, developing countries slowly began to reject ISI in the 1980s and 1990s after the rise of global market-driven liberalization, a concept based on the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank's structural adjustment programs. The Theory of Import Substitution Industrialization (ISI) ISI theory is based on a group of developmental policies. The foundation for this theory is composed of the infant industry argument, the Singer-Prebisch thesis, and Keynesian economics. From these economic perspectives, a group of practices can be derived: a working industrial policy that subsidizes and organizes the production of strategic substitutes, barriers to trade such as tariffs, an overvalued currency that aids manufacturers in importing goods, and a lack of support for foreign direct investment. Related to and intertwined with ISI is the school of structuralist economics. Conceptualized in the works of idealistic economists and financial professionals such as Hans Singer, Celso Furtado, and Octavio Paz, this school emphasizes the importance of taking into account structural features of a country or a society in economic analysis. That is, political, social, and other institutional factors. A critical feature is the dependent relationship that emerging countries often have with developed nations. Structuralist economics theories further gained prominence through the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America (ECLA or CEPAL, its acronym in Spanish). In fact, Latin American structuralism has become a synonym for the era of ISI that flourished in various Latin American countries from the 1950s to the 1980s. Real World Example of Import Substitution Industrialization (ISI) That era kicked off with the creation of ECLA in 1950, with Argentine central banker Raul Prebisch as its executive secretary. Prebish outlined an interpretation of Latin America's burgeoning transition from primary export-led growth to internally oriented urban-industrial development in a report. That report became "the founding document of Latin American structuralism" (to quote one academic paper) and a virtual manual for import substitution industrialization. Inspired by Prebisch's call to arms, most Latin American nations went through some form of ISI in the ensuing years. They expanded the manufacturing of non-durable consumer goods, like food and beverages, and then expanded into durable goods, such as autos and appliances. Some nations, like Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico, even developed domestic production of more advanced industrial products like machinery, electronics, and aircraft. Although successful in several ways, the implementation of ISI did lead to high inflation and other economic problems. When these were exacerbated by stagnation and foreign debt crises in the 1970s, many Latin American nations sought loans from the IMF and the World Bank. At the insistence of these institutions, these countries had to drop their ISI protectionist policies and open up their markets to free trade. Facebook Facebook Twitter Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College The flame test is used to visually determine the identity of an unknown metal or metalloid ion based on the characteristic color the salt turns the flame of a Bunsen burner. The heat of the flame excites the electrons of the metals ions, causing them to emit visible light. Every element has a signature emission spectrum that can be used to differentiate between one element and another. Key Takeaways: Perform the Flame Test The flame test is a qualitative test in analytical chemistry used to help identify the composition of a sample. The premise is that heat gives energy to elements and ions, causing them to emit light at a characteristic color or emission spectrum. The flame test is a quick way to narrow down the identity of a sample, but must be combined with other tests to confirm composition. How to Do the Flame Test Classic Wire Loop Method First, you need a clean wire loop. Platinum or nickel-chromium loops are most common. They may be cleaned by dipping in hydrochloric or nitric acid, followed by rinsing with distilled or deionized water. Test the cleanliness of the loop by inserting it into a gas flame. If a burst of color is produced, the loop is not sufficiently clean. The loop must be cleaned between tests. The clean loop is dipped in either a powder or solution of an ionic (metal) salt. The loop with sample is placed in the clear or blue part of the flame and the resulting color is observed. Wooden Splint or Cotton Swab Method Wooden splints or cotton swabs offer an inexpensive alternative to wire loops. To use wooden splints, soak them overnight in distilled water. Pour out the water and rinse the splints with clean water, being careful to avoid contaminating the water with sodium (as from sweat on your hands). Take a damp splint or cotton swab that has been moistened in water, dip it in the sample to be tested, and wave the splint or swab through the flame. Do not hold the sample in the flame as this would cause the splint or swab to ignite. Use a new splint or swab for each test. How to Interpret Flame Test Results The sample is identified by comparing the observed flame color against known values from a table or chart. Red Carmine to Magenta: Lithium compounds. Masked by barium or sodium. Scarlet or Crimson: Strontium compounds. Masked by barium. Red: Rubidium (unfiltered flame) Yellow-Red: Calcium compounds. Masked by barium. Yellow Gold: Iron Intense Yellow: Sodium compounds, even in trace amounts. A yellow flame is not indicative of sodium unless it persists and is not intensified by an addition of 1% NaCl to the dry compound. White Bright White: Magnesium White-Green: Zinc Green Emerald: Copper compounds, other than halides. Thallium. Bright Green: Boron Blue-Green: Phosphates, when moistened with H 2 SO 4 or B 2 O 3 . Faint Green: Antimony and NH 4 compounds. Yellow-Green: Barium, manganese(II), molybdenum. Blue Azure: Lead, selenium, bismuth, cesium, copper(I), CuCl 2 and other copper compounds moistened with hydrochloric acid, indium, lead. Light Blue: Arsenic and some of its compounds. Greenish Blue: CuBr 2 , antimony Purple Violet: Potassium compounds other than borates, phosphates, and silicates. Masked by sodium or lithium. Lilac to Purple-Red: Potassium, rubidium, and/or cesium in the presence of sodium when viewed through a blue glass. Limitations of the Flame Test The test cannot detect low concentrations of most ions. The brightness of the signal varies from one sample to another. For example, the yellow emission from sodium is much brighter than the red emission from the same amount of lithium. Impurities or contaminants affect the test results. Sodium, in particular, is present in most compounds and will color the flame. Sometimes a blue glass is used to filter out the yellow of sodium. The test cannot differentiate between all elements. Several metals produce the same flame color. Some compounds do not change the color of the flame at all. Because of the limitation, the flame test might be used to rule out the identity of an element in a sample, rather than definitively identify it. Other analytical procedures should be conducted in addition to this test. Flame Test Colors This table lists the expected colors for elements in the flame test. Obviously, the names of the colors are subjective, so the best way to learn to recognize close-colored elements is to test known solutions so you know what to expect. Symbol Element Color As Arsenic Blue B Boron Bright green Ba Barium Pale/Yellowish Green Ca Calcium Orange to red Cs Cesium Blue Cu(I Copper(I) Blue Cu(II) Copper(II) non-halide Green Cu(II) Copper(II) halide Blue-green Fe Iron Gold In Indium Blue K Potassium Lilac to red Li Lithium Magenta to carmine Mg Magnesium Bright white Mn(II) Manganese(II) Yellowish green Mo Molybdenum Yellowish green Na Sodium Intense yellow P Phosphorus Pale bluish green Pb Lead Blue Rb Rubidium Red to purple-red Sb Antimony Pale green Se Selenium Azure blue Sr Strontium Crimson Te Tellurium Pale green Tl Thallium Pure green Zn Zinc Bluish green to whitish green Source Jeremy Fleming. Photo: AFP When British gentlemen desperately badmouthed China's use of technology,losing their dignity and revealing their true hooligan nature, it's perhaps the most entertaining episode on today's international stage.Jeremy Fleming, head of Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ), UK's electronic spy agency, on Tuesday accused China of trying to "rewrite the rules of international security," claiming China is using its economic and technological clout to clamp down at home and exert control abroad, AP reported. According to Fleming, the way China deploys emerging technology, from satellite systems such as BeiDou to digital currencies, could represent a "huge threat to us all." Fleming's planned speech comes after the head of the FBI and his British counterpart groundlessly accused China of using "every tool" to steal Western technology in July.This, of course, is utter nonsense. Concocting "China technological threat" theory has become one of the priorities of British and US intelligence agencies. It seems only by constantly fabricating and exaggerating the "security threat from China" can they demonstrate the value of their existence and obtain more funding and private interests.Fleming, Britain's top cyber spy, talked rubbish. He singled out BeiDou, claiming the system could be used to block adversaries' access to space or bolster surveillance. We have to ask: Then what are the EU's Galileo system and US' GPS satellite system used for? Why can't China have its own navigation satellite system which will not only meet the demand of the country's national security, economic as well as social development but also better serve global users by providing more stable and reliable services?"Countries, particularly the US and the UK, want to maintain their monopoly in the high-tech sector, so that they could be able to control the lifeline of future economic development and monopolize the tech advantages in emerging industries," Gao Jian, director of the Center for British Studies at Shanghai International Studies University, told the Global Times.As a matter of fact, the UK and US intelligence agencies' weaponization of technologies is truly the greatest security threat to the world. British commentator Tom Fowdy told the Global Times that "Fleming's claim is hypocritical projection from the UK. There are no other countries on earth who utilize technology for surveillance and coercive purposes than Britain and the United States as a part of the five eyes alliance." He further said China's goal is to utilize technology for its own development and progress, and not for far-reaching geopolitical or hegemonic ambitions.The US, the UK and some other Western countries have long been engaged in weaponizing technologies in spying and monitoring military enterprises, scientific research institutes, and government agencies of not only their deemed rivals but also allies. A cybersecurity report in June showed the US military and government cyber agencies had remotely stolen over 97 billion pieces of global internet data and 124 billion phone records over the past 30 days, which became a significant source of intelligence for the US, the UK and other "Five Eyes" countries. Earlier this month, the US National Security Agency was exposed after it launched a cyberattack and engaged in data theft against the Northwestern Polytechnical University in China.The intelligence network created by the US and the UK is the source of evil in the world and the biggest threat to global security. "American and British intelligence agencies are going on a rampage in global cyberspace, conducting various attacks on other countries' cyber infrastructure and intercepting intelligence. They are robbers. Now these robbers accuse China, a victim of their attacks, of conspiring to control the world, on what grounds?" asked Shen Yi, a professor at the School of International Relations and Public Affairs of Fudan University.The US and the UK intelligence agencies have a bad record. Based on past facts, the US and the UK must have projected their own foul deeds and crimes onto China. "The Royal United Services Institute, as an old leading think tank in the UK, has allowed the insane rhetoric of the intelligence agency chief to come to the fore. Where is its basic ability to judge the quality of a speech?" asked Shen. B.A., Mundelein College M.Div., Meadville/Lombard Theological School In Puritan theology, a person recorded a covenant with the Devil by signing, or making their mark, in the Devil's book "with pen and ink" or with blood. Only with such signing, according to the beliefs of the time, did a person actually become a witch and gain demonic powers, such as appearing in spectral form to do harm to another. In testimony in the Salem witch trials, finding an accuser who could testify that the accused had signed the Devil's book, or getting a confession from the accused that she or he had signed it, was an important part of the examination. For some of the victims, the testimony against them included charges that they had, like specters, tried to or succeeded in forcing others or persuading others to sign the devil's book. The idea that signing the devil's book was important is probably derived from the Puritan belief that church members made a covenant with God and demonstrated that by signing the church membership book. This accusation, then, fit with the idea that the witchcraft "epidemic" in Salem Village was undermining the local church, a theme which Rev. Samuel Parris and other local ministers preached during the beginning phases of the "craze." Tituba and the Devil's Book When enslaved woman Tituba was examined for her supposed part in the witchcraft of Salem Village, she said she had been beaten by her enslaver, Rev. Parris, and told she had to confess to practicing witchcraft. She also "confessed" to signing the devil's book and several other signs that were believed in European culture to be signs of witchcraft, including flying in the air on a pole. Because Tituba confessed, she was not subject to hanging (only unconfessed witches could be executed). She was not tried by the Court of Oyer and Terminer, which oversaw the executions, but by the Superior Court of Judicature, in May 1693, after the wave of executions was over. That court acquitted her of "covenanting with the Devil." In Tituba's case, during the examination, the judge, John Hathorne, asked her directly about signing the book, and the other acts which in European culture signified the practice of witchcraft. She had not offered any such specifics until he asked. And even then, she said that she signed it "with red like blood," which would give her some room later to say that she had fooled the devil by signing it with something that looked like blood, and not actually with her own blood. Tituba was asked if she saw other "marks" in the book. She said that she had seen others, including those of Sarah Good and Sarah Osborne. On further examination, she said she'd seen nine of them, but could not identify the others. The accusers began, after Tituba's examination, including in their testimony specifics about signing the devil's book, usually that the accused as specters had tried to force the girls to sign the book, even torturing them. A consistent theme by the accusers was that they refused to sign the book and refused to even touch the book. Other Accusers In March of 1692, Abigail Williams, one of the accusers at the Salem witch trials, accused Rebecca Nurse of trying to force her (Abigail) to sign the devil's book. Rev. Deodat Lawson, who had been the minister in Salem Village before Rev. Parris, witnessed this claim by Abigail Williams. In April, when Mercy Lewis accused Giles Corey, she said that Corey had appeared to her as a spirit and forced her to sign the devil's book. He was arrested four days after this accusation and was killed by pressing when he refused to either confess to or deny the charges against him. Early History of Witchcraft The idea that a person made a pact with the devil, either orally or in writing, was a common belief in witchcraft lore of medieval and early modern times. The Malleus Maleficarum, written in 14861487 by one or two German Dominican monks and theology professors, and one of the most common manuals for witch hunters, describes the agreement with the devil as an important ritual in associating with the devil and becoming a witch (or warlock). Community health workers are trained in vaccination techniques for the inhalable COVID-19 booster doses on November 16, 2022 in Shijingshan district, Beijing. Photo: IC At least 11 districts in Beijing including Chaoyang, Xicheng and Haidian opened appointments to the public for inoculations using China's first aerosolized adenovirus vector vaccine for booster doses starting on Tuesday.At a press conference on Wednesday, the Chaoyang district government said that residents can make phone appointments for free, single-dose inhalable boosters, and encouraged those who have not yet been inoculated, especially the elderly, to get vaccinated as early as possible.Observers said that offering the inhalable vaccine as a booster is expected to be an effective strategy in relieving the recent flare-ups in China, especially in Chaoyang district, the most populous area of the capital, which recorded the most COVID-19 cases during the latest outbreak.At present, the single-dose aerosolized adenovirus vector vaccine is only provided as a booster for those above 18 who have completed either two shots of inactivated vaccines or one shot of CanSinoBIO's adenovirus type-5 vector-based vaccine.Some other cities including Shanghai, Hangzhou and Tianjin previously started to offer the inhalable vaccines as boosters, as COVID-19 flare-ups caused by highly transmissible Omicron variants have been reported across the country.The Global Times learned from insiders that the inhaled vaccine is not available for those who have completed three doses of the inactivated vaccines, as China has not yet officially rolled out mass vaccination of the fourth dose."A large part of the Chinese population has been completely vaccinated for more than half a year. It is hard for them to retain a high immunity level against various mutant strains. It is recommended to consider carrying out a fourth dose in order to beef up the immune level," Tao Lina, a Shanghai-based medical observer, told the Global Times on Wednesday.The vaccine is administered by atomizing it into tiny particles with an atomizer and sipping it by mouth.Some people who have been vaccinated described the process as being like sipping a cup of bubble tea and it even tastes a bit sweet in previous interviews with the Global Times.The public, especially those who are sensitive to needles, would be more receptive to an inhaled vaccine, given its painless and relaxed experience, said Tao.Research by CanSinoBIO in October showed that a heterologous booster with inhaled adenovirus vector vaccine can generate more neutralizing antibodies against different COVID-19 variants.This is the world's first aerosolized COVID-19 vaccine, and it was approved by Chinese national authorities for emergency use as a booster in September, according to the developer. A COSCO ship at Qingdao Port in East China's Shandong Province on February 11 Photo: IC Cooperation between China and Germany ismutually beneficial, China's Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday in response to a potential deal between China's shipping giant Cosco and Hamburg port in Germany."It is hoped that relevant parties will view China-Germany pragmatic cooperation rationally," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin told a regular press conference on Wednesday.The response came as the German cabinet approved on Wednesday an investment by Cosco for a 24.9 percent stake - less than the initially planned 35 percent stake - in one of logistics firm HHLA's three terminals in Germany's largest port in Hamburg, Reuters reported.Cosco said in a statement later on Wednesday that the German Ministry of Economic Affairs and Energy had "partially approved" the deal.Such an outcome leaves room for maneuver for China-Germany cooperation as well as China-EU cooperation in the future, Zheng Chunrong, director of the German Studies Centre at Tongji University, told the Global Times on Wednesday. Port of Hamburg is the biggest winner, Zheng added."From a strictly business perspective it makes a lot of sense to have this Chinese investment in the port, since it deepens the mutual interest of both sides to intensify trade relations," Helga Zepp-LaRouche (HZL), founder of Germany-based political and economic think tank, the Schiller Institute, told the Global Times on Wednesday.Some German politicians have voiced political concerns over the port deal, claiming China is taking over too much of Germany's so-called "critical infrastructure," which could have impact on strategic security.Right now Germany is under "enormous pressure" to follow the US policy of "decoupling" economically from China. So some politicians are voicing opposition to the cooperation project, Zepp-LaRouche said."But the views are entirely motivated by a very unhealthy geopolitical intention," said the German expert.German investment in China hit a record high in the first half of 2022, surpassing the level of tens of billions of euros, according to a report by the German Institute for Economic Research, more commonly known as DIW Berlin, which was released in August.Meanwhile, German corporate giants are pouring more investment into the world's second largest economy.For instance, BASF inaugurated the first plant of its Zhanjiang Verbund site on September 6 in South China's Guangdong Province. The project will be the company's largest investment to date, with a pledged investment of 10 billion euros by 2030, according to a statement sent from BASF to the Global Times.Bilateral trade between China and Germany rose slightly by 0.9 percent on a yearly basis to $173.57 billion between January and September, according to data released by the General Administration of Customs (GAC) on Monday.German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that he will travel to China with a delegation of German business leaders in early November, German media outlet Die Welt reported on Friday. However, the reported visit has not been confirmed by China's Foreign Ministry.Global Times Hollywood Casino Columbus has been fined $200,better betting app000 by the Ohio Casino Control Commission under a settlement agreement concerning security and underage gambling problems at the casino. At its monthly meeting Wednesday, the commission announced the penalty against the PENN Entertainment property stemming from incidents that included security understaffing and the ability of individuals younger than 21 to access the casino. It was the first fine the commission issued over casino operations this year, after several prior penalties focused on new sportsbook operators. Details of the problems at Hollywood Casino were not aired publicly at the meeting. The five-page settlement agreement describes them briefly while noting PENN declined the opportunity for a hearing to contest the allegations. No PENN representative spoke on the topic at the commission meeting. When languages borrow from each other, they play fast and loose with spelling rules. Sometimes, the borrowed word or phrase will be altered so that it matches spelling norms of the new language. Other times, it is left as is, with little or no change. Given this inconsistency, is en route or in route the correct version of this French term? The results may not be surprising, but they are still interesting. What is the Difference Between En Route and In Route? In this post, I will compare en route vs. in route. I will use each of these terms in at least one example sentence, so you can see how they look in context. Plus, I will show you a helpful memory tool that will allow you to choose in route or en route correctly every time. When to Use En Route What does en route mean? En route is an expression that means on the way or in transit. It is an importation of a French phrase that translates, literally, to on the way. Merriam-Webster first recorded its use in English in 1779, probably coinciding with French military aid in the American Revolution. For example, Units are en route to the scene, said the dispatcher over the radio. We have three supply vessels en route to the war zone, said the ambassador. Prominent Venezuelan opposition leader Henrique Capriles said Thursday he was barred from leaving the country after authorities seized his passport while en route to the United Nations to denounce rights abuses by President Nicolas Maduros government. The Wall Street Journal Today, en route simply means on the way in basically any context. People might say they are en route to a partywhen asked if they have left yet. En route functions as an adverb in sentences, where it describes proximity or location. When spoken aloud, en route is pronounced identically to on root, although the latter has an entirely separate meaning. Also, the correct spelling of this term is always en route. A spelling without a space enrouteoccasionally pops up here and there, but it is a widely rejected spelling that you should avoid. As you can see from the above graph, which charts enroutevs. en routeover time, the correct spelling is clearly en route. When to Use In Route In route is a misspelling of en route. It is easy to see why writers make this mistakethe French en can translate directly to in in English, and the phrase itself means in transit. Nonetheless, in route is not considered a standard variant of this phrase. As you can see from the graph below, this time charting in routevs. en route,English writers have strongly preferred en route since at least the year 1800, which is nearly the entire time since en route was introduced into the language. This chart isnt exhaustive in its scope, since it only looks at books published in English since 1800. Still, it grants insight into a long-term usage trend. Trick to Remember the Difference You should always use en route. In route seems like it should make sense, but it is a nonstandard variant and has never seen widespread use. Since en route comes from French, remember that en is a French word and in is not. 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Key Takeaways The Nepalese rupee (NPR) is the national currency of Nepal. The NPR exchange rate is pegged to the Indian rupee (INR). Nepal has experienced increased economic growth in recent years, along with declining rates of inflation. Understanding Nepalese Rupee (NPR) The NPR was introduced in 1932, replacing the previous currency, the Nepalese mohar. Its exchange rate is based on a peg set against the Indian rupee (INR). Prior to 1994, the NPR was pegged at a rate of 1 INR per 1.45 NPR. However, since 1994 the peg has been adjusted to 1 INR per 1.60 NPR. The NPR is divided into units known as "paisa" and is circulated in both coin and banknote forms. One rupee is made up of 100 paisa. Today, the NPR's coins are denominated in units of 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, and 50 paisa. The banknotes are denominated in units of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 paisa. The most recent series of banknotes, released in 2015, feature images of Mount Everest along with other local symbols of natural and cultural significance. Transacting in the NPR can be difficult for foreigners, because there are three primary exchange rates operating in Nepal: an official central bank rate, a legal private bank rate, and an illegal black market rate. Of these, the most favorable exchange rates are generally found in the black market. For this reason, much local commerce takes place at the black-market exchange rates. Most tourists, however, will use the private banks and will therefore obtain a less favorable rate. The same is true for formal exchange-rate businesses and the foreign-exchange services offered at the Kathmandu airport. These authorized agents will transact at the private banking rates. Because of the legal ambiguities involved, travelers are advised to obtain and keep receipts for all their currency exchange transactions, in order to be able to prove that only legal agents were used. Travelers should ensure they have adequate small-denomination bills and coins available, as small vendors may be reluctant to provide change. Nepal's Economy Nepal's economy has grown at an average rate of roughly 4% between 1965 and 2019. More recently, gross domestic product (GDP) growth has risen above the 5% threshold, with the past three years showing growth of over 6.66%, -2.37%, and 4.25%, respectively. Between 2008 and 2016, inflation hovered around 9%, but dropped to roughly 3.6% in 2017. Since then it has edged back up and was slightly higher than 4% in 2021. Relative to the USD, the NPR has depreciated over the past 10 years. In Sept. 2009, 1 USD was equivalent to just over 77 NPR. 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Good luck!Questiondancehall, dance music, dance of death, dancer, dancercise, dancerly, dance therapy, dance to another tune, dancette, dancewear, danceyDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 Abkhaz / (bkz) / New Word List Save This judi slot online24jam terpercaya idnWord! / (bkz) /Save ThisWord! nounAlso called: Abkhazi, Abkhazian plural -khaz a member of a Georgian people living east of the Black Seathe language of this people, belonging to the North-West Caucasian family Words nearby Abkhaz QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Questionabjection, abjective, abjunction, abjuration, abjure, Abkhaz, Abkhazia, Abkhazian, abl., ablactate, ablactationCollins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. 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They can be treated as either Literary Elementsor Literary Techniques. It will be convenient to define them separately. Literary Elementshave an inherent existence in literary piece and are extensively employed by writers to develop a literary piece e.g. plot, setting, narrative structure, characters, mood, theme, moral etc. Writers simply cannot create his desired work without including Literary Elementsin a thoroughly professional manner. Literary Techniques, on the contrary, are structures usually a word s or phrases in literary texts that writers employ to achieve not merely artistic ends but also readers a greater understanding and appreciation of their literary works. Examples are: metaphor, simile, alliteration, hyperbole, allegory etc. In contrast to Literary Elements, Literary Techniques are not unavoidable aspect of literary works. To have a better understanding of Literary Devices, it is useful to look at their definition and examples: Common Literary Elements Plot: It is the logical sequence of events that develops a story. Setting: It refers to the time and place in which a story takes place. Protagonist: It is the main character of story, novel or a play e.g. Hamlet in the play Hamlet Antagonist: It is the character in conflict with the Protagonist e.g. Claudius in the play Hamlet Narrator: A person who tells the story. Narrative method: The manner in which a narrative is presented comprising plot and setting. Dialogue: Where characters of a narrative speak to one another. Conflict. It is n issue in a narrative around which the whole story revolves. Mood: A general atmosphere of a narrative. Theme: It is central idea or concept of a story. Common Literary Techniques 1. Imagery: It is the use of figurative language to create visual representations of actions, objects and ideas in our mind in such a way that they appeal to our physical senses. For example: The room was dark and gloomy. -The words dark and gloomy are visual images. -The words dark and gloomy are visual images. The river was roaring in the mountains. The word roaring appeals to our sense of hearing. 2. Simile and Metaphor:Both compare two distinct objects and draws similarity between them. The difference is that Simile uses as or like and Metaphor does not. For example: My love is like a red red rose (Simile) He is an old fox very cunning. (Metaphor) 3. Hyperbole: It is deliberate exaggeration of actions and ideas for the sake of emphasis. For example: Your bag weighs a ton! I have got a million issues to look after! 4. Personification: It gives a thing, an idea or an animal human qualities. For example: The Flowers are dancing beside the lake. Have you see my new car? She is a real beauty! 5. Alliteration:It refers to the same consonant sounds in words coming together. For example: Better butter always makes the batter better. She sells seashells at seashore. 6. Allegory: It is a literary technique in which an abstract idea is given a form of characters, actions or events. For example: Animal Farm, written by George Orwell, is an example allegory using the actions of animals on a farm to represent the overthrow of the last of the Russian Tsar Nicholas II and the Communist Revolution of Russia before WW II. In addition, the actions of the animals on the farm are used to expose the greed and corruption of the Revolution. 7. Irony: It is use of the words in such a way in which the intended meaning is completely opposite to their literal meaning. For example: The bread is soft as a stone. So nice of you to break my new PSP! Function of Literary Devices In general, the literary devices are a collection of universal artistic structures that are so typical of all works of literature frequently employed by the writers to give meanings and a logical framework to their works through language. When such works are read by readers, they ultimately recognize and appreciate them. Because of their universality, they also allow the readers to compare a work of one writer to that of the other to determine its worth. They not only beautify the piece of literature but also give deeper meanings to it, testing the very understanding of the readers along with providing them enjoyment of reading. Besides, they help motivating readers imagination to visualize the characters and scenes more clearly. He was standing on the corner and wearing only a T-shirt and jeans, and this was 11:30 at night and it was really cold. Some of Dr. Stephen T. Colbert D.F.A.'s best moments behind the desk. There was a handy distraction in the Che t-shirt the tourist was wearing while celebrating the death. Marvin takes off his T-shirt and dives into his swimming pool. Following the pre-recession excess of T-Pain and Akon, hip-hop was in search of greater authenticity. Future Makes Us Rethink Everything We Thought We Knew About Rap Artists|Luke Hopping|December 15, 2014|DAILY BEAST There'll be heaps uh fun in the Cypress Hills country when they get t' runnin' the whisky-jacks out. Raw Gold|Bertrand W. Sinclair An with that I laid down on the settee, an felt orful bad, an the more I tho't about it, the wus I felt. The Book of Anecdotes and Budget of Fun;|Various I've tried to teach lots of folks; an' sum learns quick, an' some don't never learn; it's jest 's 't strikes 'em. Ramona|Helen Hunt Jackson But ef Jos keeps on, airnin' ez much ez he hez so fur, he's goin' ter pay the Injun part on 't, when he cums. Ramona|Helen Hunt Jackson Charlayne Hunter-Gault,must buy cryptocurrency 80, has both made and chronicled history in real time. After becoming the first Black woman to enroll at the University of Georgia in 1961, in the 1970s she was one of the earliest Black women to write for the New York Timesestablishing the papers Harlem bureaubefore becoming NPRs chief Africa correspondent. Among her many other accomplishments, she was also the first Black staff writer at TheNew Yorker,and her efforts to capture the American story have netted awards including a pair of Emmys and a Peabody. And history, she tells me while discussing her new book, My People: Five Decades of Writing About Black Lives, tends to repeat itself. That, she says, is something she took away from one of her early journalism classes at the University of Georgia, where a professor added that we learn from history precisely because we so often fail to do so. History should be a guide past avoidable social and political calamities, she says, and it should offer hope in the face of deeply distressing current eventsreminders that at even in our darkest hours, there have always been heroes and she-roes, as Hunter-Gault puts it, who pulled the rest of us toward something better. Even so, we all too often experience the present as disconnected from the past. My Peoplecounters that instinct with essential insights gleaned from observation of a messy world. Hunter-Gault spoke to TIME by phone from her home in Marthas Vineyard. The following transcript of our conversation has been edited for clarity and length. TIME: What made you want to put together a collection of your reported work at this particular moment in time? HUNTER-GAULT: While this is a very challenging time, we have stories in our history that should be helpful to people who are getting despondent over where we are now. We have had challenges in the past, going back to the first time people of color landed in this country, and yet look where we are. I think this is an important time to share some of that history, not only for our people, that is, people of color, but for all people. While my book focuses primarily on Black women, there were white women and men who died for us. And so Im hoping that looking at our history, we can see the heroes and she-roesmany of whom are ordinary people who would probably reject being called a hero, and yet they were. The book includes a story about a community-dispute center in Harlem, one about parents looking for a way to teach their children a more accurate version of history, one about the late Congressman John Lewis when he was a young voting-rights activist, another about policing during periods of increased crimedo you feel those stories include themes on the issues of the moment requiring more thought? Well, why dont you quote yourself on that? Yeah. Ha! I probably should not have phrased my question that way. Again, Im trying to put our history in context. I have a perspective that is based on my own history, which [involved] a bit of challenge, but also was full of determination. And so I look at that history, and I say how important it isfor this younger generation in particular, but for some of the older ones, too, who are getting a bit frustrated with where we are in the countryfor them to know the history, [to] know what shoulders they stand on. Read more: Critical Race Theory Is Simply the Latest Bogeyman. Inside the Fight Over What Kids Learn About Americas History Another thing that stood out as I was reading through the stories in the book is that there are quite a few profiles of people who, at the time you wrote about them, did not yet have massive national stature. One of them was about the future Congressman John Lewis, the impact of the 1964 Voting Rights Act, and what he expected to come from his work registering Black voters in Georgia. Is there something that you see as a consistent element among those who ultimately shape American life? Remember what Barack Obama said, when he went to Selma, [Ala.]. He said, we stand on the shoulders of giants. Yep. People dont always realize that these giants were little boys, like John Lewis was when he used to go and preach to the pigs in the backyard. I do remember what was in the back of my mind [in 1961] when I was at UGA and John [Lewis], and a group of Black and white people, young people, boarded a bus in Washington to come to the South and challenge the interstate segregation rules. And heres what got me. Not only were they coming into what clearly was going to be a dangerous situation, or potentially dangerous, but they were gonna do it anyway. They were so determined that they signed their wills before they left Washington, in case there was a problem. And of course, that, again, led to the person who received the first blows for freedom[one of whom], of course, was John Lewis, when he got off the bus and these white agitators beat the hell out of him. And did it stop him? No, it inspired him. Charlayne Hunter, 18, at University of Georgia in 1961 Bettmann Archive/Getty Images Ive listened to the commentators on various channels, about how democracy, in effect, is going to hell. Somebody said something about how, if you look around the world, democracy is failing everywhere. But we have history that shows us that we can be successful in our efforts to perfect unions, not only in America, but in other places like South Africa where I have a lot of history. Theres just so much pessimism about democracy. Read more: Why John Lewis Kept Telling the Story of Civil Rights, Even Though It Hurt There are people who would say that, before the 2016 election, there were warnings that if you elect a person to the highest office who has openly said he will not accept the election results if he doesnt win, you are playing a very dangerous political game. Many of those people happen to be people of colorjournalists and historians of color, aware of what portions of our history pointed that way. And they were largely dismissed. Ill tell you a story, briefly, that Im still trying to figure out. [In 2020], I went to a neighborhood that is predominantly Black. I ultimately got to talk to these guys [in a park]; one of them had voted. And when I asked him would you mind telling me who you voted for? He said, Well, lets put it this way. I didnt vote for Trump. So I said okay, so then I went to a businessman who has a wonderful sidewalk cafe, and he [said] something to the effect of, Why are they always on him about his taxes? [The man thought Trump was] a good businessman whos a good example for him as a businessman. The New Yorkerran it that Monday [before Election Day]. When the vote came out, by the time they analyzed it, that was absolutely correct: there were Black people who voted for Donald Trump. Is there anything going on in the world today that you think is under-covered or not getting enough attention? Its one thing to report on demonstrations and the work of organizations like Black Lives Matter and so forth. But its another thing to report on the underlying issues that cause those organizations to exist, that cause those protests. I see news organizations making changes and adding people of color. And its one thing to add people of color, which I applaud. Its another thing to make sure to add people of color who understand the dimensions of the race problem and who have contacts within the community. Edward R. Murrow, years ago, said this instrument [television] can teach, it can illuminate, it can inspirebut it can only do so to the extent that we are willing to use it to those ends. Otherwise, its nothing but wires and lights in a box. And I quote that all the time. Im going to put that up next to my computer. Its an excellent prescription. Im curious, though, when you looked at your own body of work, were there issues or areas where you felt you still had work left to do? Something we have to work on is how you communicate with people you disagree with. I see that reported, especially when it comes to history and how you teach it and what you include. The question I have about that is how do we, as a nation and the people of the nation, communicatebecause I dont see a lot of communication between people who have one set ideas and people who have a different set. I think thats one of our biggest challenges. But again, the lessons from my own history are lessons that I think are equally applicable today. And I think that rather than be intimidated into not reporting on people of color and their issues, people in our profession in particular should be encouraged by our historythe good, the bad, the uglyto report on those issues. I do remember a conversation I had with my editor when I went to the New York Times. Before I was hired, I went for the interview and he asked me, if I was sent to Harlem, would I be able to tell the truths about Black people? He agreed eventually, and I set up office on 125th [Street], in a small room, big enough for me. I continue to work because I still believe in the profession and what it can do, which is one of the reasons I just did a piece on the Wampanoag. I have perspective and I still see things that I think I can give some prominence to. And while Ive slowed down on all of that I dont plan to not do it anytime soon. I found another story where a young Black woman is working on helping to educate young students about how best to communicate with people who dont agree with you, and one of the people who spoke along with her was a white teacher who is implementing those things in her curriculum. Weve just got to continue to emphasize the notion of what it takes to create a more perfect union. And, to be sure, informationgood informationis whats going to take us there. What Is a Levy?ftx crypto tsm coral politics odds A levy is the legal seizure of property to satisfy an outstanding debt. If you fail to pay your taxes, the Internal Revenue Service may respond by levying your tax return or property. Tax authorities can also levy other assets, such as bank accounts, rental income, or retirement accounts. Key Takeaways Levies are the legal means by which a taxing authority or a bank can seize property for the payment of a debt. Properties that can be seized in a levy are both realsuch as cash, cars, and housesas well as intangible and held by someone else, like future wages. A levy is different from a lien because a levy takes the property to satisfy the tax debt, whereas a lien is a claim used as security for the tax debt. While private creditors need a court order to levy property, federal agencies like the IRS do not. A levy is distinct from a garnishment, where a court orders an employer to direct part of your salary to a creditor. How a Levy Works Levies can be exercised by either a tax authoritysuch as a state treasury or the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)or a bank. A levy is different from a lien because a levy takes the property to satisfy the tax debt, whereas a lien is a claim used as security for the tax debt. In other words, while a lien secures the governments interest or claim to an individuals or businesss property when the tax debt remains unpaid, a levy actually permits the government to seize and sell the property to pay the tax debt. Tax Levy The Internal Revenue Code (IRC) authorizes levies to collect delinquent tax payments to the federal government. However, certain procedures must be followed and requirements met before enforcing a levy. In the U.S., for example, the IRS must first assess the tax and send a Notice and Demand for Payment (a tax bill) to an individual owing federal taxes. If the individual still neglects or refuses to pay the tax, the IRS will send a Final Notice of Intent to Levy and Notice of Your Right to a Hearing (a levy notice). This is typically sent at least 30 days prior to the levy and can be given in person, dropped at the tax debtor's home or place of business, or mailed to the individual's last known address. In the U.S., the IRS has the authority to levy an individual's property to satisfy a tax debt. Property that can be levied includes real property like cash in a bank account, a house, car, or boat. Intangible property and property belonging to the individual that is held by someone else can also be levied. This includes wages, retirement accounts, dividends, bank accounts, licenses, rental income, accounts receivables, commissions, or the cash loan value of a life insurance policy. As a measure of last resort, the taxing authority may impose a federal tax lien to inform other creditors of the taxing authoritys legal right to a taxpayers assets and property. A tax lien goes up on the debtors credit report and remains there for up to15 years if it remains unpaid. If the taxes remain unpaid, the tax authority can use a tax levy to legally seize the taxpayer's assets (such as bank accounts, investment accounts, automobiles, and real property) to collect the money it is owed. The IRS is also authorized to garnish the taxpayers wages until the debt is paid off. A state tax levy applies to unpaid state taxes. Note that the IRS can also levy a debtors state tax refund, in which case, he may receive a Notice of Levy on Your State Tax Refund and a Notice of Your Right to Hearing after the levy. For federal contractors, the IRS does not need to provide any notification of the levy until after the tax levy is applied. Private creditors must win a monetary judgment before levying a bank account. However, the IRS can levy an account without a court order. Bank Levy A creditor that obtains a court judgment against a debtor may be able to have the court issue a bank levy. The bank levy usually freezes the bank account(s) of the debtor until all the outstanding debt is repaid in full, dependent on the court's ruling. If the levy is not lifted, the creditor can take the money from the bank account and apply it to the total debt owed. A bank levy is not a one-time event. A creditor can request a bank levy as many times as needed until the debt has been satisfied as per the terms of the court judgment. In addition, most banks charge a fee to their customers for processing a levy on their accounts. A bank levy can occur due to either unpaid taxes or unpaid debt. Some types of accounts, such as Social Security Income, Supplemental Security Income, Veterans Benefits, and child support payments, generally cannot be levied. However, a debtor who owes money to the federal government would not have as much protection as he would if he owed a private creditor. Green Levy A green levy is a tax on greenhouse gases or other sources of pollution. These levies are intended to incentivize environmentally-friendly behaviors by raising the costs on polluting businesses. Carbon taxes are among the most common green levies, but many local governments have also sought to reduce plastic waste by raising the price of plastic shopping bags. Mill Levy A mill levy or mill tax is a property tax, based on the assessed value of real estate. These taxes are typically used by local governments to allocate funding for school districts or parks. Every year, each property in the district is valued by a tax assessor, and taxation is allocated on a percentage basis. Levy vs. Garnishment A levy is distinct from a garnishment, another means that the IRS or other creditors can use to secure repayment. Whereas a levy allows creditors to withdraw money from a bank account, a garnishment is when a court instructs a third party (usually an employer) to redirect a portion of a debtor's wages or income. Both garnishments and levies are available to private creditors, as well as the government. However, federal agencies like the IRS do not need a court order in order to levy or garnish a person's assets. Other creditors must provide proof of the unpaid debt and acquire a court order for the wages or other income to be garnished. Garnishments are frequently used to pursue defaulted loans or delinquent child support. Debtors may be entitled to some relief, if the garnishment would cause them financial hardship. Examples of a Levy The IRS provides sample case scenarios for levies and what you can do. How to Avoid a Levy The best way to avoid a levy is prevention: file your returns on time and pay your taxes when they are due. If you need more time to file, you can request an extension, and if you can't make a full payment, contact the IRS and arrange to pay the balance in installments. Don't Ignore Tax Levy Notices Dont ignore IRS billing notices. They don't go away, and in extreme cases, delinquent tax bills can lead to time in prison. There are different ways to make tax payments. You may be able to set up a payment plan or settle your tax debt for less than the full amount you owe. In some cases, there may also be other options. If you do not work with the IRS to resolve your tax debt and respond to their billing notices, the IRS may levy your property. Even if you think you do not owe the tax bill, you should contact the IRS. If you receive an IRS bill titled "Final Notice, Notice of Intent to Levy and Your Right to A Hearing," contact the IRS right away. Call the number on your billing notice, or individuals may contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040; businesses may contact the IRS at 1-800-829-4933. What If Someone Else's Bank Account Was Levied for My Taxes? The IRS proposes a couple of hypothetical scenarios for levies that may be removed. One is a situation where Person Number One is listed as a signer on Person Number Two's bank account, and Person Number One's property is levied by the IRS. For example, a son is a signer on his elderly mother's bank account to help her pay her bills, but a levy has been put on his property for some reason. The IRS says the mother or her power of attorney should call the IRS at the telephone number shown on Form 668-A(C)DO and be prepared to explain why the funds in the bank account are the property of the mother. The IRS may ask for substantiation that the mother is the owner of funds in a bank account. How to Recover Money Lost Due to IRS Error In the second hypothetical scenario, the IRS has levied a person's bank account after they have fully paid all of their tax liability. The bank charged the taxpayer a $100 fee for processing the levy, and the taxpayer would like to recover the fee for $100 from the IRS. The IRS may reimburse a taxpayer for bank charges caused by erroneous levies by submitting Form 8546, Claim for Reimbursement of Bank Charges, to the IRS address on the taxpayer's copy of the levy. To be eligible to recover bank charges from the IRS, all of the following conditions must be satisfied: The IRS must have caused the error. The taxpayer must not have contributed to continuing or compounding the error. Before the levy, the taxpayer must have responded in a timely way to contacts and given information requested to establish the taxpayer's position. The Bottom Line A levy is one of several available means to secure repayment for overdue taxes or unpaid loans. Levies can also refer to other kinds of taxes, that may be used to support government programs. Which Constitutional Amendment Gave Congress the Power to Levy an Income Tax? The Sixteenth Amendment allows Congress to collect direct income taxes without regard to state census counts. Prior to the amendment's passage in 1909, income taxes could only be allocated among the states based on their population. Until the 16th amendment was ratified, federal revenues largely came from customs duties and excise taxes. How Can You Stop a Levy on Your Bank Account? The simplest way to avoid a bank account levy is to repay the debt that prompted the levy in the first place, but this is easier said than done. However, there are other legal ways to escape a bank levy. If you can prove that the levy was due to an error on the creditor's part, or that you were the victim of identity theft, you may be able to have your account access restored. You may also be able to contest the debt or declare bankruptcy, although this will likely require the help of a debt relief attorney. How Often Can the IRS Levy My Bank Account? There is no limit to the number of levies the IRS can place in order to collect unpaid taxes. However, there are limits to what they can takethe IRS can only levy up to 15% of Social Security benefits, and it cannot levy veterans' benefits. In addition, the IRS may release a levy if the lost funds would create an undue economic hardship. What Is an Ad Valorem Tax Levy? An ad valorem tax is a tax levied on the assessed value of a piece of property, usually real estate or a vehicle. The phrase "ad valorem" means "according to value," so these tax burdens are distributed among the community according to the value of each taxpayer's property. These taxes are a major source of revenue for local governments and school districts. How Much Can Child Support Levy From My Bank Account? Laws vary from state to state, but each state can levy bank accounts for unpaid alimony or child support. However, there are limits to the amount that can be garnished. Under Title III of the Consumer Credit Protection Act, courts can garnish no more than 60% of a worker's disposable earnings, unless they are supporting a spouse or child, in which case the limit is only 50%. An additional 5% may be taken if the worker is more than 12 weeks behind in payments. play gonzos quest sure 2 odd todayshows grade level based on the word's complexity. back clipping New Word List Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. nouna word formed by omitting the last part of the form from which it is derived. Also called hind clipping. Compare apocope, clipped form, fore clipping. Words nearby back clipping How to use in a sentence Think back to the Bush-Kerry race of 2004, the Thrilla in Vanilla. Jeb Bushs Unseen Anti-Gay Marriage Emails|Jackie Kucinich|January 9, 2015|DAILY BEAST Jeb Bushs Unseen Anti-Gay Marriage Emails|Jackie Kucinich|January 9, 2015|DAILY BEAST Back in New York, the slow pace and inward focus of her yoga practice was less fulfilling. How Taryn Toomeys The Class Became New Yorks Latest Fitness Craze|Lizzie Crocker|January 9, 2015|DAILY BEAST How Taryn Toomeys The Class Became New Yorks Latest Fitness Craze|Lizzie Crocker|January 9, 2015|DAILY BEAST Music is a huge part of the tone of Black Dynamite overallgoing back to the original 2009 movie on which the series is based. Black Dynamite Presents Police Brutality: The Musical|Stereo Williams|January 9, 2015|DAILY BEAST Black Dynamite Presents Police Brutality: The Musical|Stereo Williams|January 9, 2015|DAILY BEAST The al Qaeda-linked gunmen shot back, but only managed to injure one officer before they were taken out. France Kills Charlie Hebdo Murderers|Nico Hines|January 9, 2015|DAILY BEAST So, Islamized teaching sends girls back home for marriage and housework, and remains exclusively for boys. Houellebecqs Incendiary Novel Imagines France With a Muslim President|Pierre Assouline|January 9, 2015|DAILY BEAST Houellebecqs Incendiary Novel Imagines France With a Muslim President|Pierre Assouline|January 9, 2015|DAILY BEAST I waited three months more, in great impatience, then sent him back to the same post, to see if there might be a reply. The Boarded-Up House|Augusta Huiell Seaman The Boarded-Up House|Augusta Huiell Seaman Ages backlet musty geologists tell us how long ago'twas a lake, larger than the Lake of Geneva. Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine, Volume 60, No. 372, October 1846|Various Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine, Volume 60, No. 372, October 1846|Various The boys were tumbling about, clinging to his legs, imploring that numerous things be brought back to them. The Awakening and Selected Short Stories|Kate Chopin The Awakening and Selected Short Stories|Kate Chopin With a suffocating gasp, she fell back into the chair on which she sat, and covered her face with her hands. The Pastor's Fire-side Vol. 3 of 4|Jane Porter The Pastor's Fire-side Vol. 3 of 4|Jane Porter She was holding the back of her chair with one hand; her loose sleeve had slipped almost to the shoulder of her uplifted arm. The Awakening and Selected Short Stories|Kate Chopin QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Questionbackcast, back catalogue, back channel, backchat, back-check, back clipping, backcloth, backcomb, back country, backcourt, backcourtmanDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 Wang Lijun, Chongqings former vice mayor and former police chief, stood trial on Monday and Tuesday on charges of bending the law for selfish ends, defection, abuse of power and bribe-taking in Chengdu, in southwest Chinas Sichuan Province. At the trials in the Chengdu Municipal Intermediate Peoples Court, prosecutors produced evidence while two lawyers retained by Wang defended him. After the trials, the court announced that the verdict would be delivered on a day to be decided. Wang, then Chongqings vice mayor, entered the U.S. Consulate General in Chengdu without authorization and stayed there on Feb. 6 and 7 this year. The incident created negative impacts at home and abroad. After the authorities investigated the incident in line with the law, the National Peoples Congress Standing Committee announced the termination of Wangs post as a deputy to the 11th NPC on June 30. On July 22, Wang was arrested by the State Security Bureau of Chengdu for defection after the Chengdu Municipal Peoples Procuratorate approved the arrest. On Aug. 2, after the investigation was completed, the case was handed to the Chengdu Municipal Peoples Procuratorate for examination before prosecution. The Supreme Peoples Procuratorate (SPP) assigned the Hefei Municipal Peoples Procuratorate in east Chinas Anhui Province to investigate Wang for bending the law for selfish ends. After the investigation was completed, the case was also transferred to the Chengdu Municipal Peoples Procuratorate for examination on Aug. 2. The SPP assigned the Sichuan Provincial Peoples Procuratorate to investigate Wang for abuse of power and bribery. After the investigations were completed, the cases were separately handed to the Chengdu Municipal Peoples Procuratorate on Aug. 8 and Sept. 1. On Sept. 5, the Chengdu Municipal Peoples Procuratorate filed charges against Wang with the Chengdu Municipal Intermediate Peoples Court. The Chengdu Municipal Intermediate Peoples Court held a closed-door trial on Monday for Wang on the charges of defection and abuse of power and an open trial on the charges of bribe-taking and bending the law for selfish ends on Tuesday. Three judges heard the cases, with Zhong Erpu, the courts deputy chief, as the chief judge. In the prosecutors seat were Deputy Chief of the Chengdu Municipal Peoples Procuratorate Wang Xin and his two colleagues. Wangs family and relatives, journalists, deputies to the peoples congress, political advisors, as well as ordinary citizens attended Tuesdays trial. Wang was born on Dec. 26, 1959, in the city of Arxan in north Chinas Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. In late 2007, Wang, then police chief of the city of Jinzhou in northeast Chinas Liaoning Province, first met Bogu Kailai, who has been sentenced in another case. Wang remained close with Bogu Kailai and her family after being transferred to Chongqing Municipality. He had assumed the positions of deputy party chief, deputy chief, party chief and head of Chongqing police and, later, vice mayor of Chongqing. According to prosecutors, Wang, then police chief of Chongqing, had neglected his duty to investigate and suppress criminal acts and bent the law for personal interests. Prosecutors said Wang knew perfectly well that Bogu Kailai was seriously suspected of intentional homicide, but he deliberately covered up her crimes so Bogu Kailai would not be held legally responsible. The circumstances are especially serious. This behavior violates Clause 1 of Article 399 of the Criminal Law of the Peoples Republic of China, prosecutors said. They added that Wang, as a state functionary who knew state secrets, left his post without authorization and defected to another countrys consulate while he was performing his official duty. These circumstances are also serious and in violation of Article 109 of the Criminal Law, according to prosecutors. Wang has violated the countrys relevant laws and regulations by using technical reconnaissance measures against many people on multiple occasions, either without the approval of authorities or by forging approval documents. These acts have severely undermined the socialist legal system, infringed upon citizens legitimate rights and interests and violated Clause 1 of Article 397 of the Criminal Law of the Peoples Republic of China, prosecutors said. Wang, acting as a state functionary, took advantage of his position and illegally accepted money and property worth more than 3.05 million yuan (484,127 U.S. dollars), in return for securing benefits for other individuals, a violation of Article 385 of the Criminal Law. Provided with clear facts, valid and ample evidence, Wang should be held criminally responsible for the charges of bending the law for personal interests, defection, abuse of power and bribe-taking, prosecutors said. Prosecutors and members of the defense counsel cross-examined the defendant in court. Prosecutors presented material and documentary evidence, witness testimonies, defendants statements and video and audio materials. The defendant and his defense questioned the evidence. The prosecution and defense teams also debated issues, including facts, evidence and application of the law. The Chengdu City Peoples Procuratorate pointed out in its public prosecution paper that the criminal acts of defendant Wang Lijun have caused serious harm to society and his lesson should be taken as a warning. The paper points out that as a state functionary, Wang should discipline himself and be clean and honest; as a law enforcement officer, he should stick to his belief in the law; as a Party cadre, he should hold the beliefs that everybody is equal before the law, there is no privilege before institution and there are no exceptions in institutional constraints. As China is building a socialist society under the rule of law, anyone who breaks the law should be punished by the law, it says. I acknowledge and confess the guilt accused by the prosecuting body and show my repentance, Wang said in his final statement at court. My acts were crimes, and I hope the serious impacts (caused by my acts) both at home and abroad would be eliminated through the trial. Meanwhile, I hope the trial will issue a warning to society and let more people draw lessons from me, he said. For the Party organizations, people and relatives that have cared for me, I want to say here, sincerely, Im very, very sorry, Ive let you down,' Wang said. After Wang Lijun entered the U.S. Consulate without authorization, police began to attach more importance to Bogu Kailais alleged murder of British national Neil Heywood, which was reported by Wang. The police set up a team to review the case, as well as re-investigated and cracked the case according to law. Since Wangs exposure of the case objectively played an important role in cracking it, why was he charged with bending the law for selfish ends? How did the conflicts between Wang and Bogu Kailais family come into being and gradually escalate? Why did Wang defect? Based on an audit of the open trial, a media briefing and introduction by bodies authorized to handle the case, the full process and key points of Wangs case unfolded as follows: BENDING THE LAW FOR SELFISH ENDS Bogu Kailai and her son, surnamed Bo, had conflicts with Heywood over economic interests. Bogu Kailai thought Heywood had endangered her sons personal safety. On Nov. 12, 2011, after a discussion with Bogu Kailai and some other people, Wang arranged surveillance and control efforts targeted at Heywood under the pretext that Heywood may have committed drug-related crimes. On the night of Nov. 13, Bogu Kailai and Zhang Xiaojun, then an employee of the general office of the Chongqing Municipal Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and a family assistant for Bogu Kailai, poisoned Heywood at the Lucky Holiday Hotel in Chongqing. At midnight, after a talk on the phone with Bogu Kailai, Wang was informed that she had met Heywood in the hotel and had a drink with him. The next day, Bogu Kailai recounted her murder of Heywood in detail to Wang in her residence. Wang secretly recorded her confession. At noon on Nov. 14, Wang Lijun came to the No. 3 building (Bogu Kailais residence). When I met Wang Lijun that day, I told him in detail about how I met and poisoned Neil on the night of Nov.13. He told me not to be bothered by the case, which would have nothing to do with me in the future. He also told me to erase my memories about the case. I told him I was a bit worried, he told me it would be fine within a week or two, Bogu Kailai said while testifying at the trial. A recording presented by prosecutors during the trial featured Wang and Bogu Kailai as interlocutors, and Bogu Kailai was telling Wang the details of her poisoning of Heywood. On Nov. 15, after Heywood was found dead, Wang Lijun instructed Guo Weiguo, then deputy chief of the Chongqings Public Security Bureau and a close friend of Bogu Kailai, to handle the case without telling Guo or other policemen that he possessed clues and recorded evidence of Bogu Kailais involvement. Later on, Wang called a vice chief of criminal investigations surnamed Huang away from the crime scene and asked him to leave the case. I was so consumed by my selfish ideas then that I didnt want to handle the case, Wang said. The next morning, Guo Weiguo, Li Yang (former chief of the bureaus crime department, sentenced), Wang Pengfei (former chief of the bureaus technical detection team and also former chief of the Public Security Sub-bureau of Chongqings Yubei district, sentenced), and Wang Zhi (former executive deputy chief of the Public Security Sub-bureau of the municipalitys Shapingba District, sentenced) concluded that Heywood died from an alcohol overdose. Wang did not oppose their conclusion. On Nov. 17, Wang offered Bogu Kailai a videotape showing her appearance in the hotel, extracted by Guo Weiguo and other policemen from the crime scene. Wang told me that it was a security videotape from the hotel that showed that no one visited Heywood after I left his place. He meant to protect me, Bogu Kailai said in her testimony. On Nov. 18, Heywood was cremated. That evening, Wang told Bogu Kailai about the cremation during a phone call. On the evening of Nov. 18, 2011, Wang Lijun called me and asked Bogu Kailai to listen. After the call, Bogu Kailai said Wang used the phrase becoming smoke and ashes, gone to the west, (a euphemism indicating that Heywood had been cremated,) Zhang Xiaojun said in his testimony. Why did Wang Lijun shy away from his responsibilities and deliberately cover up for Bogu Kailai so that she would not be held legally responsible, even if he knew the truth? After coming to Chongqing, I visited Bogu Kailais home often, and I thought she treated me quite well. I knew if the case was treated as a homicide, it would be huge. However, to avoid antagonism with Bogu Kailai, I shunned the case, Wang said. To be honest, if not for the involvement of Bogu Kailai, I would have ordered a thorough investigation and found out the truth earlier, he said. Prosecutors said the evidence indicates that Wang knew that Bogu Kailai was under serious suspicion of committing intentional homicide, but deliberately covered up for her instead of holding her criminally responsible. CAUSE OF CONFLICT Wang Lijun and Bogu Kailai had close relations, but that did not mean they had no conflicts. Evidence showed that prior to the Nov. 15, 2011 Case, or the death of Neil Heywood, conflicts had arisen between them. On Aug. 12, 2011, Bogu Kailais son, surnamed Bo, wanted to meet Wang Lijun. Wang was in downtown Chongqing but did not want to meet Bo, so Wang asked his driver to tell Bo that he was in Wanzhou District. Bogu Kailais son almost had a traffic accident on his way to Wanzhou, making Bogu Kailai very angry with Wang. After the Nov. 15, 2011 Case, Bogu Kailai, worried about the case being exposed, took a series of actions, including destroying evidence, to ensure that it would not be. Wang was not pleased that Bogu Kailai turned up the heat by allowing an increasing number of people to learn about the incident. On Dec. 14, 2011, Bogu Kailai held a banquet and invited Li Yang, Wang Pengfei, Wang Zhi and other individuals who took part in the investigation of Neil Heywoods death and covered up her crime. Wang Lijun said in his confession that Guo Weiguo went to Beijing the next day, taking Wang Zhi and Wang Pengfei with him. I scolded Wang Zhi and Wang Pengfei seriously in front of Guo Weiguo. I think the words that I used to scold them have been disseminated back to Chongqing. Since Dec. 14 of last year (2011), Bogu Kailai turned hostile toward me, taking a different attitude from before when contacting me. She was not so warm as before and began to guard herself against me. The testimonies of Guo Weiguo, Wang Pengfei and Wang Zhi have confirmed the aforementioned details. At the end of December 2011, four staff members working closely with Wang Lijun were investigated illegally, escalating the conflict between Wang Lijun and Bogu Kailai. Relevant testimonies from witnesses showed that on Jan. 28, Wang Lijun reported to the then leading official of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Chongqing Committee that Bogu Kailai was highly suspected in the Nov. 15, 2011 Case. On the morning of Jan. 29, Wang Lijun was angrily rebuked and slapped in the face by the official. Guo Weiguo, who was present when Wang Lijun was slapped, said in the interrogation record that the conflict was made public after Wang Lijun was slapped. After the conflict had intensified, Wang Lijun on the same day ordered Li Yang and other individuals to re-obtain testimonies from witnesses, properly protect key material evidence, including the blood extracted from Neil Heywoods heart, reorganize the evidence and documents regarding Bogu Kailais suspicion in murdering Neil Heywood, and provided his secret recording materials. Then, Wang Lijun gave the file to Li Yang and other individuals for transfer and storage. Wang Zhi said in the interrogation record that on Jan. 29, Wang Lijun asked him, Wang Pengfei and Li Yang to go to his office and rearrange the Nov. 15, 2011 Case file. We spent several days making the file. Wang Lijun asked me, Wang Pengfei and Li Yang to keep the file separately and store it in a safe place, Wang Zhi said. Wang Zhi added, I knew Wang Lijun and Bogu Kailai had turned hostile toward each other at that time, otherwise Wang Lijun would not have asked us to rearrange the file. He should have a personal purpose in starting the case. LEAVING WITHOUT PERMISSION On Feb. 2, 2012, Wang Lijuns work division as Chongqings vice mayor was adjusted and he no longer served concurrently as chief of the municipalitys Public Security Bureau. Moreover, in early February, three staff members working closely with Wang were put under illegal investigation. Wang felt he was in danger, giving rise to his idea to defect. On Feb. 6, under the pretext of discussing business, Wang canceled his original work arrangements and entered the U.S. Consulate General in Chengdu at 2:31 p.m. without permission. Relevant organs in Chongqing confirmed that during that time, neither the Chongqing municipal Party committee nor the government needed a vice mayor to go to Chengdu to participate in any official activity. The municipality also did not need or arrange for a vice mayor, including Wang, to go to the U.S. Consulate General in Chengdu to engage in foreign trade issues or diplomatic issues. According to the indictment of the Chengdu Peoples Procuratorate, after briefly discussing issues concerning environmental protection, education and science and technology with diplomats inside the U.S. consulate, Wang immediately claimed that his personal security was threatened because of his investigation of criminal cases. He asked the United States to provide shelter for him and filled out an application for political asylum. Wang left the U.S. Consulate General in Chengdu of his own volition at 11:35 p.m. on Feb. 7 through the persuasion and advice of relevant organs of Chongqing Municipality and central authorities. He said he would cooperate with investigations. REVEALING THE CASE After leaving the U.S. Consulate General in Chengdu, Wang Lijun told relevant state organs that Bogu Kailai was suspected of murdering Neil Heywood and provided relevant evidence and documents that he had accumulated. Wang sent a letter to Li Yang and asked Li to turn in key material evidence, such as the blood from Heywoods heart, to police who were reviewing the Neil Heywood case. Prosecutors said the documents accumulated by the defendant Wang could prove that Bogu Kailai was suspected of murdering Neil Heywood. After Wang left the U.S. consulate of his own volition, the Ministry of Public Security initiated a lawful review of the Neil Heywood case based on information provided by Wang. On Aug. 20, 2012, the Hefei City Intermediate Peoples Court in east Chinas Anhui Province sentenced Bogu Kailai to death with a two-year reprieve for intentional homicide. Zhang Xiaojun, an accessory to the murder, was sentenced to nine years in prison. MORE CRIMES UNCOVERED During the investigation of Wangs case, relevant authorities received a string of reports indicating that Wang was suspected of abusing power and taking bribes. Investigators paid great attention to the reports and collected relevant evidence after legal investigation and evidence-collecting procedures. According to the indictment, Wang, then chief of Chongqings Public Security Bureau, violated the countrys laws and regulations by using technical reconnaissance measures on a number of people since 2010, either without the approval of authorities or by forging approval documents. These acts have severely undermined the socialist legal system and infringed citizens legitimate rights and interests. Xinhua learnt from the courtroom the following major facts regarding Wangs bribe-taking accusation. In April 2009, when Wang served as the chief of Chongqings Public Security Bureau, one of Wangs immediate family members was transferred to a working position in Beijing. Not having a residence in Beijing, the family member of Wang received two apartments in Beijing bought by Xu Ming, board chairman of the Dalian Shide Group Co. Ltd. at a price of 2.85 million yuan (449,583 U.S. dollars). The apartments were registered under the name of Wangs father-in-law. After the deal, Wang gave his thanks to Xu in person. In July of the same year, Wang, at the request of Xu, instructed law enforcement departments in Chongqing to release three people, respectively surnamed Pan, Wang and Zhang, who were under detention. Moreover, Yu Junshi, legal representative of the Dalian Shiyuan Trade Co. Ltd., made two payments totaling 200,000 yuan in September 2008, when Wang Lijun was the executive deputy chief of Chongqings Public Security Bureau, and in November 2009, when he was Chongqings Public Security Bureau chief, to cover the rent for Wangs villa in Chongqing. In October 2009, Wang, at the request of Yu, ordered law enforcement departments in Chongqing to release a person surnamed Yang who was under detention. MERITORIOUS REPORTING While being investigated, Wang produced important clues that exposed serious offenses committed by others. Such clues played a key role in the investigation of other cases. At the courtroom, Wangs defender pleaded for a mitigated punishment for Wang after fully expressing relevant views. The defender said that Wang left the U.S. Consulate General in Chengdu by his own will, an act that should be regarded as a termination of defection and thus should result in a mitigated punishment or no punishment. Wang also voluntarily surrendered while being investigated for bending the law for selfish ends, meaning that his crimes circumstances should be regarded as serious instead of especially serious, the defender said, requesting that the court fully consider these factors. The prosecution said Wangs defection belongs to conduct crime which should be taken as a complete offense as long as it was carried out. The defendant, with premeditation, entered the U.S. Consulate General in Chengdu under the pretense of negotiating business and stayed in the consulate to write an application for political asylum. Wangs behavior constitutes a complete offense. Wang voluntarily surrendered after defecting and confessed related information about the major facts concerning his defection, such behavior constitutes voluntary surrender, the prosecution said. According to Article 67 of the Criminal Law, there could be lighter or mitigated punishment. Wang, as the chief of Chongqings Public Security Bureau, failed to perform his investigation duties regarding the serious crime of intentional homicide, and he played a key role in bending the law for selfish ends. The crime should be regarded as especially serious, according to the prosecution. Wang later ordered his Chongqing police subordinates to collect and preserve evidence regarding the murder case involving Bogu Kailai. He also reported the possible involvement of Bogu Kailai to the authorities, provided evidence and willingly assisted in the reinvestigation of the case. Since Wang played a crucial role in helping public security authorities to crack the case, the penalty for his crime of bending the law for personal gain could be lighter, the prosecution said Moreover, Wang produced important clues that exposed serious offenses committed by others and played a key part in the investigation of the cases, which could be considered as major meritorious service. According to Article 68 of the Criminal Law, Wang could be given a mitigated punishment, the prosecution said. Wangs case has been holding the worlds attention. Investigatory, procuratorial and judicial authorities have taken the facts as the basis and the law as the criterion, and handled the case strictly in accordance with the law in the process of the investigation, prosecution and trials. During the investigation period, the State Security Bureau of Chengdu in Sichuan, the Hefei City Peoples Procuratorate in Anhui Province and the Sichuan Province Peoples Procuratorate, respectively, carried out meticulous investigation and interrogation plans, questioning parties involved in the case and many people who knew about the case and collected and verified a huge amount of evidence. They also informed Wang of his right to retain defense counsel. During the phase for the approval of the arrest and prosecution, the prosecuting body thoroughly and meticulously examined the evidence collected and put together by the investigating body in a timely manner, and provided multiple suggestions for further investigation. The prosecuting body also sent the criminal suspect a letter to inform him of his rights and responsibilities as well as his right to entrust a defense counsel to represent him. The defense counsel entrusted by Wang examined, extracted and copied case files in accordance with the law. After the defendant was indicted, the Chengdu City Intermediate Peoples Court formed a collegial panel, sent duplicates of the indictment to the defendant, publicized the time and location of the trials, sent subpoenas for the trials and notices to attend court to the defendant and his defense counsel, informed them of their litigation rights and safeguarded the defense counsels rights to meet Wang and examine, extract and copy case files in accordance with laws. Before the trials, Wangs defense counsel met with him 15 times. Wang Yuncai, Wang Lijuns defender and a lawyer with the Beijing-based Longan Law Firms Shenyang Office, said in court that the defense counsel met the defendant many times and examined the case files before the trials. Gu Mingan, a professor with the Law School of the Southwestern University of Finance and Economics as well as an observer at the trials, said the two sides made full efforts to raise and cross-examine evidence during the trials, and the court scrupulously heard the opinions of the prosecutors as well as the defense counsel, fully reflecting the judicial concept of the equality of the prosecution and the defense, and safeguarded the sanctity of law. After the trials, Wu Qunfang, a resident from the Taoyuan community in the Chenghua District of Chengdu, said that after the trials they have fully understood the beginning and subsequent development of Wang Lijuns case. We believe that all is equal before the law and expect a fair verdict from the peoples court, Wu said. Xinhua Details of the trials of Wang Lijunadded by chinatimesonline on View all posts by chinatimesonline What Is Marital Property?hippodrome casino open Marital property is a U.S. state-level legal term that refers to property acquired during the course of a marriage. Property that an individual owns before a marriage is considered separate property, as are inheritances or third-party gifts given to an individual during a marriage. Marriage partners may choose to exclude certain property from marital property by signing a prenuptial or a postnuptial agreement. Some of the details described below won't affect a couple unless they divorce or until one of them dies. But it's important for couples to learn about the different types of marital property so that when they acquire real estate or other property, they know how ownership can be arranged and choose the structure that represents their true intentions. Key Takeaways Marital property refers to property that a couple acquires during their marriage. Where a couple lives determines the laws that govern the distribution of marital property in the event of divorce. In common law property states, property that is acquired by one spouse is considered their sole property unless the title or deed carries both spouses' names. Nine states are community property states, where marital property acquired during the marriage is owned by both spouses equally. Understanding Marital Property Marital property includes real estate and other property a couple buys together during their marriage, such as a home or investment property, cars, boats, furniture, or artwork, when not acquired by either as separate property. Bank accounts, pensions, securities, and retirement accounts are also included; even an Individual Retirement Account, which is individually owned by law, is marital property if earned income is contributed to it during the course of a marriage. This legal definition of marital property primarily exists to protect spousal rights. A couple's permanent legal residencein either a common law property state or a community property statedetermines which laws govern their marital property and how it can be divided if their marriage ends in divorce. Common Law Property States vs. Community Property States Which type of state you live in generally determines what is considered to be marital property. Common law property states Most states are common law property states. The common law system provides that property acquired by one member of a married couple is owned completely and solely by that person. Under this legal framework, if the title or deed to a piece of property is put in the names of both spouses, the property belongs to both spouses. If both spouses' names are on the title, each owns a one-half interest. If a wife buys a car and puts it only in her name, for example, the car belongs to her only. If she buys the car and puts it in both her and her husband's names, however, the car belongs to both of them. Under common law, when one spouse passes away, their separate property is distributed according to their willor according to probate, if there is no will in effect. How this distribution pans out depends on which type of legal ownership the spouse has in any marital property. If they own property in "joint tenancy with the right of survivorship" or "tenancy by the entirety," the property goes to the surviving spouse. This right is independent of what the deceased spouse's will says. However, if the property was owned as "tenancy in common", then the property can go to someone other than the surviving spouse, per the deceased spouse's will. Not all property has a title or deed. In this case, generally, whoever paid for the property or received it as a gift owns it. In a legal separation or divorce in a common law state, the court can decide how marital property is divided according to its laws. Community property states Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin are all community property states. These nine states follow the rule that all assets acquired during a marriage are considered community property,that is, property of both spouses. According to the Internal Revenue Service, the states of Tennessee and South Dakota also have passed elective community property laws, along with Alaska and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Alaska has an "opt-in" community property law that allows such a division of property, providing both parties agree. Tennessee, South Dakota and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico have passed similar laws. Marital property in community property states is owned by both spouses equally. This marital property includes earnings, all property bought with those earnings, as well as all debts accrued during the marriage. Earnings and debts acquired before the marriage are separate property, as is an inheritance of only one spouse, although the couple may co-mingle property if they choose. Couples residing in community property states have to account for their community income as well as their separate income if they file separate federal tax returns. When one spouse dies, title of joint assets goes to the surviving spouse. Community property begins at the marriage and ends when the couple physically separates with the intention of not continuing the marriage. Therefore, any earnings or debts originating after separation are considered separate property. Marital Property and Divorce If the couple divorces or obtains a legal separation and the former spouses can't decide how to divide their marital property,a court will decide for them. In non-community property states, assets are divided according to "equitable distribution." In community property states, there are some exceptions to the equal division rule, including where a spouse misappropriates marital property before or during a divorce. Of course, the couple can enter into a prenuptial agreement before the marriage, explaining how to distribute the marital property upon divorce. Usually, if the prenup is valid and doesn't violate federal or state laws, it will be followedeven in community property states. PDF Playlist A million miles or more By Richard Martin Listen online Richard Martin (4 fans) Richard Martin I am retired and led a small band named Graywood. 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The exponential moving average is also referred to as the exponentially weighted moving average. An exponentially weighted moving average reacts more significantly to recent price changes than a simple moving average simple moving average (SMA), which applies an equal weight to all observations in the period. Key Takeaways The EMA is a moving average that places a greater weight and significance on the most recent data points. Like all moving averages, this technical indicator is used to produce buy and sell signals based on crossovers and divergences from the historical average. Traders often use several different EMA lengths, such as 10-day, 50-day, and 200-day moving averages. Simple Vs. Exponential Moving Averages Formula for Exponential Moving Average (EMA) 2:03 E M A Today = ( Value Today ( Smoothing 1 + Days ) ) where: \begin{ aligned} &\begin{ aligned} EMA_{ \text{ Today}}=&\left(\text{ Value}_{ \text{ Today}}\ast\left(\frac{ \text{ Smoothing}}{ 1+\text{ Days}}\right)\right)\\ &+EMA_{ \text{ Yesterday}}\ast\left(1-\left(\frac{ \text{ Smoothing}}{ 1+\text{ Days}}\right)\right)\end{ aligned}\\ &\textbf{ where:}\\ &EMA=\text{ Exponential moving average} \end{ aligned} EMAToday=(ValueToday(1+DaysSmoothing))where: While there are many possible choices for the smoothing factor, the most common choice is: Smoothing = 2 That gives the most recent observation more weight. If the smoothing factor is increased, more recent observations have more influence on the EMA. Calculating the EMA Calculating the EMA requires one more observation than the SMA. Suppose that you want to use 20 days as the number of observations for the EMA. Then, you must wait until the 20th day to obtain the SMA. On the 21st day, you can then use the SMA from the previous day as the first EMA for yesterday. TradingView. The calculation for the SMA is straightforward. It is simply the sum of the stock's closing prices during a time period, divided by the number of observations for that period. For example, a 20-day SMA is just the sum of the closing prices for the past 20 trading days, divided by 20. Next, you must calculate the multiplier for smoothing (weighting) the EMA, which typically follows the formula: [2 (number of observations + 1)]. For a 20-day moving average, the multiplier would be [2/(20+1)]= 0.0952. Finally, the following formula is used to calculate the current EMA: EMA = Closing price x multiplier + EMA (previous day) x (1-multiplier) The EMA gives a higher weight to recent prices, while the SMA assigns equal weight to all values. The weighting given to the most recent price is greater for a shorter-period EMA than for a longer-period EMA. For example, an 18.18% multiplier is applied to the most recent price data for a 10-period EMA, while the weight is only 9.52% for a 20-period EMA. There are also slight variations of the EMA arrived at by using the open, high, low, or median price instead of using the closing price. Image by Sabrina Jiang Investopedia 2020 What Does the EMA Tell You? The 12- and 26-day exponential moving averages (EMAs) are often the most quoted and analyzed short-term averages. The 12- and 26-day are used to create indicators like the moving average convergence divergence (MACD) and the percentage price oscillato (PPO). In general, the 50- and 200-day EMAs are used as indicators for long-term trends. When a stock price crosses its 200-day moving average, it is a technical signal that a reversal has occurred. Traders who employ technical analysis find moving averages very useful and insightful when applied correctly. However, they also realize that these signals can create havoc when used improperly or misinterpreted. All the moving averages commonly used in technical analysis are lagging indicators. Consequently, the conclusions drawn from applying a moving average to a particular market chart should be to confirm a market move or to indicate its strength. The optimal time to enter the market often passes before a moving average shows that the trend has changed. An EMA does serve to alleviate the negative impact of lags to some extent. Because the EMA calculation places more weight on the latest data, it hugs the price action a bit more tightly and reacts more quickly. This is desirable when an EMA is used to derive a trading entry signal. Like all moving average indicators, EMAs are much better suited for trending markets. When the market is in a strong and sustained uptrend, the EMA indicator line will also show an uptrend and vice-versa for a downtrend. A vigilant trader will pay attention to both the direction of the EMA line and the relation of the rate of change from one bar to the next. For example, suppose the price action of a strong uptrend begins to flatten and reverse. From an opportunity cost point of view, it might be time to switch to a more bullish investment. Examples of How to Use the EMA EMAs are commonly used in conjunction with other indicators to confirm significant market moves and to gauge their validity. For traders who trade intraday and fast-moving markets, the EMA is more applicable. Quite often, traders use EMAs to determine a trading bias. If an EMA on a daily chart shows a strong upward trend, an intraday traders strategy may be to trade only on the long side. The Difference Between EMA and SMA The major difference between an EMA and an SMA is the sensitivity each one shows to changes in the data used in its calculation. More specifically, the EMA gives higher weights to recent prices, while the SMA assigns equal weights to all values. The two averages are similar because they are interpreted in the same manner and are both commonly used by technical traders to smooth out price fluctuations. Since EMAs place a higher weighting on recent data than on older data, they are more responsive to the latest price changes than SMAs. That makes the results from EMAs more timely and explains why they are preferred by many traders. Limitations of the EMA It is unclear whether or not more emphasis should be placed on the most recent days in the time period. Many traders believe that new data better reflects the current trend of the security. At the same time, others feel that overweighting recent dates creates a bias that leads to more false alarms. Similarly, the EMA relies wholly on historical data. Many economists believe that markets are efficient, which means that current market prices already reflect all available information. If markets are indeed efficient, using historical data should tell us nothing about the future direction of asset prices. What Is a Good Exponential Moving Average? The longer-day EMAs (i.e. 50 and 200-day) tend to be used more by long-term investors, while short-term investors tend to use 8- and 20-day EMAs. Is Exponential Moving Average Better Than Simple Moving Average? The EMA focused more on recent price moves, which means it tends to respond more quickly to price changes than the SMA. How Do You Read Exponential Moving Averages? Investors tend to interpret a rising EMA as a support to price action and a falling EMA as a resistance. With that interpretation, investors look to buy when the price is near the rising EMA and sell when the price is near the falling EMA. Investopedia / Jessica Olah What Is Technical Analysis?nfl betting lines week 3 Technical analysis is the study of historical market data, including price and volume. Using insights from market psychology, behavioral economics, and quantitative analysis, technical analysts aim to use past performance to predict future market behavior. The two most common forms of technical analysis are chart patterns and technical (statistical) indicators. Key Takeaways Technical analysis attempts to predict future price movements, providing traders with the information needed to make a profit. Traders apply technical analysis tools to charts in order to identify entry and exit points for potential trades. An underlying assumption of technical analysis is that the market has processed all available information and that it is reflected in the price chart. What Does Technical Analysis Tell You? Technical analysis is a blanket term for a variety of strategies that depend on interpretation of price action in a stock. Most technical analysis is focused on determining whether or not a current trend will continue and, if not, when it will reverse. Some technical analysts swear by trendlines, others use candlestick formations, and yet others prefer bands and boxes created through a mathematical visualization. Most technical analysts use some combination of tools to recognize potential entry and exit points for trades. A chart formation may indicate an entry point for a short seller, for example, but the trader will look at moving averages for different time periods to confirm that a breakdown is likely. A Brief History of Technical Analysis The technical analysis of stocks and trends has been used for hundreds of years. In Europe, Joseph de la Vega adopted early technical analysis techniques to predict Dutch markets in the 17th century. In its modern form, however, technical analysis owes heavily to Charles Dow, William P. Hamilton, Robert Rhea, Edson Gould, and many othersincluding a ballroom dancer named Nicolas Darvas. These people represented a new perspective on the market as a tide that is best measured in highs and lows on a chart rather than by the particulars of the underlying company. The diverse collection of theories from early technical analysts were brought together and formalized in 1948 with the publishing of Technical Analysis of Stock Trendsby Robert D. Edwards and John Magee. Candlestick patterns date back to Japanese merchants eager to detect trading patterns for their rice harvests. Studying these ancient patterns became popular in the 1990s in the U.S. with the advent of internet day trading. Investors analyzed historical stock charts eager to discover new patterns for use when recommending trades. Candlestick reversal patterns in particular are critically important for investors to identify, and there are several other commonly used candlestick charting patterns. The doji and the engulfing pattern are all used to predict an imminent bearish reversal. How to Use Technical Analysis The core principle underlying technical analysis is that the market price reflects all available information that could impact a market. As a result, there's no need to look at economic, fundamental, or new developments since they're already priced into a given security. Technical analysts generally believe that prices move in trends and history tends to repeat itself when it comes to the market's overall psychology. The two major types of technical analysis are chart patterns and technical (statistical) indicators. Chart patterns are a subjective form of technical analysis where technicians attempt to identify areas of support and resistance on a chart by looking at specific patterns. These patterns, underpinned by psychological factors, are designed to predict where prices are headed, following a breakout or breakdown from a specific price point and time. For example, an ascending triangle chart pattern is a bullish chart pattern that shows a key area of resistance. A breakout from this resistance could lead to a significant, high-volume move higher. Technical indicators are a statistical form of technical analysis where technicians apply various mathematical formulas to prices and volumes. The most common technical indicators are moving averages, which smooth price data to help make it easier to spot trends. More complex technical indicators include the moving average convergence divergence (MACD), which looks at the interplay between several moving averages. Many trading systems are based on technical indicators since they can be quantitatively calculated. The Difference Between Technical Analysis and Fundamental Analysis Fundamental analysis and technical analysis are the two big factions in finance. Whereas technical analysts believe the best approach is to follow the trend as it forms through market action, fundamental analysts believe the market often overlooks value. Fundamental analysts will ignore chart trends in favor of digging through the balance sheet and the market profile of a company in search of intrinsic value not currently reflected in the price. There are many examples of successful investors using fundamental or technical analysis to guide their trading and even those who incorporate elements of both. On the whole, however, technical analysis lends itself to a faster investing pace, whereas fundamental analysis generally has a longer decision timeline and holding period by virtue of the time required for the extra due diligence. Limitations of Technical Analysis Technical analysis has the same limitation of any strategy based on particular trade triggers. The chart can be misinterpreted. The formation may be predicated on low volume. The periods being used for the moving averages may be too long or too short for the type of trade you are looking to make. Leaving those aside, the technical analysis of stocks and trends has a fascinating limitation unique to itself. As more technical analysis strategies, tools, and techniques become widely adopted, these have a material impact on the price action. For example, are those three black crows forming because the priced-in information is justifying a bearish reversal or because traders universally agree that they should be followed by a bearish reversal and bring that about by taking up short positions? Although this is an interesting question, a true technical analyst doesn't actually care as long as the trading model continues to work. Further Reading: Investopedia has several articles and tutorials on the topic of technical analysis. Follow the links to articles in this journey on the menu bar to the left of this page. In addition, for further reading you may want to check out the following: Previously the system produced a single magnetic field that swirled in a circle around the central pole, resulting in dead spots in the corners of the square room. Weve already covered some of the hardware upgrades you can invest in to remove dead spots and get better home WiFi. If a single router still wont cut it, or there are dead spots on account of interference, you can expand a routers range with a WiFi extender, which can rebroadcast and extend the signals from existing routers. Sometimes they wont play nice with a modem, or will drop service unexpectedly without giving you any reason why, or will leave big dead spots around your house. The mesh WiFi technology adapts to your space to eliminate dead spots and buffering. 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Words nearby Cather How to use Cather Cather/ (k) / nounWilla (Sibert). 18731947, US novelist, whose works include O Pioneers! (1913) and My Antonia (1918) Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Questioncathedral, cathedral ceiling, cathedral glass, cathedral hull, cathepsin, Cather, Catherine, Catherine de' Medici, Catherine de Medicis, Catherine Howard, Catherine IDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 Compliment and complement are right alongside other English homophones such as there, their, and theyre and to, too, and two. Homophones are words that, despite sounding identical, actually have different meanings. The two words compliment vs. complement are especially tricky, however, because they are long words and the only spelling difference between them is one little vowel tucked in the middle. One word is spelled with an e and the other is spelled with an i. What is the Difference Between Compliment and Complement? In this post, I will outline the differences and definitions of these two words. I will go over the functions of each word and use example sentences to show how they are used in real-life sentences from newspaper outlets and print journals. After reading this post, you shouldnt ever second guess yourself by saying, Should I use compliment or complement? When to Use Compliment What does compliment mean? Compliment can function as both a noun and a verb. When used as a noun, a complimentis a flattering or praising remark. Your friend gave me a nice compliment yesterday. (Noun) The remarks you gave are a tremendous compliment. (Noun) Just a month ago, Apple paid Microsoft a high compliment by seeming to have copied the device with its new iPad Pro. The New Yorker When used as a verb, to complimentmeans to praise or to express esteem. For example, I tried to compliment his outfit, but he was busy talking. (Verb) Your friend complimented my hair yesterday. (Verb) Mattingly was often complimented by club officials, but he has not been identified as the teams leader for the foreseeable future. L.A. Times When to Use Complement What does complement mean? Complement can also function as both a noun and a verb. It denotes completeness or the process of supplementing something. When used as a noun, a complementis something that completes or brings to perfection. Dressing is an expected complement of salad. (Noun) That shirt is a perfect complement for those pants. (Noun) We have a lot of celebrities who flaunt their hourglass figures, and the corset really is a complement to that figure. The New York Times When used as a verb, tocomplementmeans to supplement adequately or to complete. For example, That shirt really complements your eyes. (Verb) This sauce complements the natural flavors of the meat. (Verb) In any given space you want a mix of patterns, textures and colors that complement each other but that dont look too matchy. The Washington Post Tricks to Remember the Difference Dont think you will be able to remember all of this next time you are picking between complement vs. compliment? Heres a useful mnemonic that will be able to help you through those times of indecision. A good way to remember the difference between these two words is to remember that I make compliments to other people. I make compliments about peoples clothes and compliment has an i in it. Summary So is it complement or compliment? That, of course, depends on the context of your sentence. Each word has is own purpose and function. A complementis something that completes something else or brings it to perfection. A complimentis a polite expression of praise or admiration. http://writingexplained/affect-vs-effect 03:14 August 15th marks one year since the Taliban seized control of Kabul during the withdrawal of US and NATO troops from Afghanistan. Since that time the United Nations has worked alongside the de facto authorities to try to tackle the countrys humanitarian crisis,australia top online pokies which it says is the worst in the world. But it comes as the Taliban is accused of eroding basic human rights and failing to adhere to promises of access to education for women and girls. CGTN's Sarah Walton reports. For more, check out our exclusive content on CGTN Nowand subscribe to our weekly newsletter, The China Report. The biomedical scientist Ma Yuting Photo: Courtesy of Ma Yuting Wang Zhiqi (second right) and the villagers Photo: Courtesy of Wang The 1980s were an open, inclusive and passionate era in China. The passion, romance and idealism of the 1980s were epic and most millennials have never experienced this. They grew up in the 20 years when China's economy increasingly developed and became an influential power on the world stage.Whether they are scientists or grassroots officials, the understanding of "beauty", "success" and the "Chinese dream" of the post-1980s generations cannot be isolated from the context of China's booming era. They reflect the exuberance of young people in China's soaring orbit.As a woman biomedical scientist born in 1984, Ma Yuting's understanding of "beauty" has been closely linked to science. She believes that beauty represents the rhythm of nature and the human body as well as a passionate collision between nature and subjective and objective concepts, just as in her discoveries made through her scientific research.Ma, director of the Immunization Platform at the Suzhou Institute of Systems Medicine (SISM) under the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, has promoted studies on how stress modulates natural or therapy-induced immune surveillance against cancer. She won the 26th China Youth May Fourth Medal alongside 154 other young scientific and technological talents and groups who demonstrated remarkable zeal and commendable contributions.Ma's research in tumor immunology has extended for over a decade and her focus is to decipher how multi-level stress responses modulate immune reactions, and find innovative approaches to help the immune system eliminate tumors. Her ongoing research also extends to the neuro-immune crosstalk in other immune-related diseases, such as viral infections and inflammation.Her continuous endeavors hinged on these innovative concepts and led to over 50 highly-cited publications in prestigious global scientific journals, book chapters and granted patents. She has also received several scientific awards, including the Chinese Young Women Scientist Award (2019) and Chinese Young Scientist Award for Cancer Research (2020).On her golden years, with passion and creativity, Ma is fully occupied thinking beyond the horizon to fill the gaps in knowledge with state-of-art experiments. Despite all the accolades, Ma still shows the down-to-earth and practical spirit of a scientist when talking about success and the ideal."Before devoting ourselves to medical scientific research, we must have a realistic attitude and always stay focused. During years and years of challenging work, we need to hone our skills, be perseverant and keep an open mind to produce outstanding and valuable breakthroughs," Ma said.When she was a child, Ma preferred being praised as a "smart" kid rather than a "beautiful" girl. She told the Global Times that her primary school teachers used to say that she was "a girl with question marks all over the head" due to her strong curiosity. She also enjoyed getting her hands dirty to find answers to her questions. Research work can satisfy these urges, which she enjoys, to meet the beauty of scientific research.Ma feels lucky to see the fruits of her research grow in tandem with China's national power and rapid economic development. "I arrived at Paris for my PhD in 2008 just after the end of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games. I could already feel that China's rising power was gaining a foothold on the world stage and that provided a favorable environment for youngsters studying abroad. There was also a growing presence of Chinese scientists in immunology research," Ma told the Global Times.At that time, her dream was to learn from world-class experts, be inspired with the latest advances in the field and return to China with more knowledge and skills. Ma established her own lab in Suzhou in 2015 and she was determined to combine her research interest with the country's major scientific programs.Today, the unprecedented research findings of her team have attracted extensive attention overseas. "I have witnessed how China has grown from a relatively backward player with gaps in hardware and facilities to a pioneer who keeps pace with, and even leads, some scientific research areas. And I feel lucky and proud to be a Chinese scientist," Ma told the Global Times.She noted that now is the golden age of tumor immunity research, and China needs to achieve high-level science and technology autonomy to avoid a technology bottleneck and the monopoly of overseas pharmaceutical manufacturers. "The China dream in the area of health will be realized with increasing investment in medical research funds, well-educated researchers and doctors, and cutting-edge hardware and facilities," said Ma.Ma's team is quite young with most master or PhD candidates from the post-1990 generation and she remains optimistic about their promising future. "Cancer is terrible and life is precious. We have no choice but to face the challenges with courage, intelligence, and diligence. Step by step, we will be able to bring more therapeutic options and hope for cancer patients and their families. And that is the value of our lives," Ma remarked.The generation of the 1980s is the backbone of various fields in society across China, including in the most grass-root positions at the remotest regions of the country.Wang Zhiqi, born in 1981 in Longnan, Northwest China's Gansu Province, has settled in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region for almost two decades. In the past six years, he has devoted to work in local villages, leading residents to shake off poverty and become wealthier.At the age of 18, Wang joined the air force and served in Handan, North China's Hebei Province. "At that time, I wanted to be close to Beijing. It was my dream.But during my service, I developed another dream, to go to Xinjiang," he said, adding that "young people should go where the motherland needs them.""When we were young, my generation experienced major events such as the NATO bombing of the Chinese Embassy in Belgrade in 1999 and the SARS outbreak," Wang said."The sacrifice of pilot Wang Wei in 2001 especially affected me a lot. Even today, I would say that if the motherland needs me to defend it, I would."After he left the military he worked for SinoPec in Kuqa, in the Aksu region of Xinjiang. "Twenty years ago, where I worked was so bleak and desolate," he said, "but I encouraged myself to carry on and I stayed."In 2017, Wang answered the call to work as a deputy head of the work teams stationed in villages, helping the residents reduce poverty."It was very difficult at the beginning. The villagers did not want to make any effort to improve their livelihood," Wang told the Global Times, noting that "we helped them to change their minds and now all the working-age residents have found a job. The village has become cleaner and more beautiful and the income of the residents increased greatly."To Wang, the beauty in his mind is the magnificent scenery of Xinjiang, the happy smiles and dances of the residents of the village, as well as their good life.In Wang's opinion, those Chinese who were born in the 1980s bear the sense of responsibility and duty and are always willing to offer themselves voluntarily.According to him, more than half of the cadres currently stationed in villages in Xinjiang were born after the 1980s, as well as government leaders in county level. They work hard for the prosperity and stability of Xinjiang.As of the end of 2020, 255,000 resident teams and more than 3 million officials had been dispatched to poor villages as first secretaries and resident officials, fighting on the front line against poverty, according to the White Paper: Poverty Alleviation: China's Experience and Contribution.Over the past 40 years, China has lifted nearly 800 million people out of poverty, accounting for more than 75 percent of the world's poor. damage control Measures to minimize or curtail loss or harm. For example, As soon as they discovered the leak to the press, the senator's office worked night and day on damage control. Used literally since the 1950s, specifically for limiting the effect of an accident on a ship, this term began to be used figuratively in the 1970s. Share Share Flipboard Flipboard Email Popular Government Democracy Representative Democracy Direct Democracy Republic vs. Democracy Unitary State Federalism Parliamentary Government Popular Government Elite Government Aristocracy Plutocracy Kleptocracy Oligarchy Elite Government Monarchies Monarchy Constitutional Monarchy Absolute Monarchy Monarchies Totalitarian States Totalitarianism Military Dictatorship Autocracy Totalitarianism vs. Authoritarianism vs. Fascism Totalitarian States Military Dictator of Chile General Augusto Pinochet stands at attention.Greg Smith/Corbis via Getty Images Facebook B.S., Texas A&M University Understanding Types of Government IntroductionByRobert LongleyRobert LongleyHistory and Government ExpertRobert Longley is a U.S. government and history expert with over 30 years of experience in municipal government and urban planning.Learn about ourEditorial ProcessPublished on January 29, 2021 A military dictatorship is a form of government in which the military holds most or all political power. Military dictatorships may be ruled by a single high-ranking military officer or by a group of such officers. Military dictatorships are notorious for human rights abuses and the denial of political and social freedoms. Key Takeaways Military Dictatorship In a military dictatorship is an autocratic type of government in which the military holds all or most power over the country. The ruler in a military dictatorship may be a single high-ranking military officer or a group of such officers, referred to as a military junta. Most military dictatorships take power after overthrowing the existing civilian government in a coup d'etat. Historically, many military regimes have been noted for their brutal suppression of freedom and persecution of political opponents. The number of countries ruled by military dictatorships began to fall sharply after the end of the Cold War in the early 1990s. While Thailand remains the worlds last active military dictatorship, other notable examples of modern countries with histories of military rule include: Brazil, Chile, Argentina, and Greece. Military Dictatorship Definition and Characteristics In a military dictatorship, military leaders exercise substantial or complete control of the people and functions of government. As an autocratic form of government, a military dictatorship may be ruled by either a single military strongman whose authority is unlimited or by a group of high-ranking military officersa military juntawho can to some extent limit the dictators authority. During the 19th century, for example, many Latin American countries struggling to reorganize after being freed from Spanish colonial rule, allowed military dictators to take power. These charismatic self-proclaimed leaders, known as caudillos, usually led private guerilla armies that had won control of former Spanish-held territories before setting their sights on vulnerable national governments. In most cases, military dictatorships come to power after the previous civilian government has been overthrown in a coup d'etat. Typically, the military dictator completely dissolves the civilian government. Occasionally, components of the civilian government structure may be restored after the coup d'etat but are strictly controlled by the military. In Pakistan, for example, while a series of military dictators have sporadically staged elections, they have fallen far short of the UNs definition of free and fair. The secrecy of the ballot has been regularly compromised and military authorities often denied the rights to freedom of expression, association, assembly, and movement. Along with the suspension or revocation of constitutional rights and freedoms, an almost universal characteristic of a military dictatorship is the imposition of martial law or a permanent state of national emergency intended to distract the people with a constant fear of attack. Military regimes typically disregard human rights and go to extremes to silence political opposition. Ironically, military dictators have often justified their rule as a way of protecting the people from harmful political ideologies. For example, the threat of communism or socialism was often used to justify military regimes in Latin America. Playing on the public assumption that the military is politically neutral, military dictatorships may attempt to portray themselves as the peoples savior from corrupt and exploitive civilian politicians. For example, many military juntas adopt titles such as Polands National Liberation Committee in the early 1980s, or Thailands current Peace & Order Maintaining Council. Since their oppressive style of rule often spawns public dissent, military dictatorships often go out the same way they came inthrough an actual or imminent coup d'etat or popular revolt. Military Juntas A military junta is a coordinated group of high-ranking military officers who exercise authoritarian or totalitarian rule over a country after taking power by force. Meaning meeting or committee, the term junta was first used about the Spanish military leaders who resisted Napoleons invasion of Spain in 1808 and later about the groups that helped Latin America win independence from Spain between 1810 and 1825. Like military dictatorships, military juntas often take power through a coup d'etat. Under the rule of this military junta, up to 30,000 people went missing in Argentina.Horacio Villalobos/Corbis via Getty Images Unlike pure military dictatorships, in which the power of a single dictator or military strongman is unlimited, the officers of a military junta can limit the dictators power. Unlike military dictators, the leaders of military juntas may end martial law, wear civilian clothing, and appoint former military officers to maintain de-facto control over local governments and political parties. Rather than all functions of the national government, military juntas may choose to control a more limited range of areas, such as foreign policy or national security. Military vs. Civilian Dictatorships In contrast to a military dictatorship, a civilian dictatorship is a form of autocratic government that does not draw its power directly from the armed forces. Unlike military dictatorships, civilian dictatorships do not have built-in access to an organized base of support like an army. Instead, civilian dictators take and hold on to power by controlling a dominant political party and the electoral process or by winning fanatical levels of popular support. Rather than the threat of military force, charismatic civilian dictators use techniques like mass distribution of bombastic propaganda and psychological warfare to create cult-like feelings of support and nationalism among the people. Civilian dictatorships that depend on political domination tend to be longer-lasting than personalistic cult-supported dictatorships. Without the automatic support of the armed forces, civilian dictators are less likely than military dictators to involve the country in foreign wars and to be ousted by insurrection or revolt. Civilian dictatorships are also more likely to be replaced by democracies or constitutional monarchies than are military dictatorships. Examples of 20th Century Military Dictatorships Soldiers ride atop tanks in the streets of Santiago, Chile, as Army General Augusto Pinochet is sworn in as President.Bettmann/Getty Images Once common throughout Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East, the prevalence of military dictatorships has been declining since the early 1990s. With the collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War, it became harder for military regimes to seize power by using the threat of communism to gain the support of powerful Western democracies like the United States. While Thailand remains the only country currently ruled by a military dictatorship, dozens of other countries have been under military rule at some point during the 20th century. Thailand On May 22, 2014, the caretaker government of Thailand was overthrown in a bloodless coup d'etat led by General Prayuth Chan-ocha, commander of the Royal Thai Army. Prayuth established a military junta, the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), to govern the country. The junta repealed the constitution, declared martial law, and banned all forms of political expression. In 2017, the NCPO issued an interim constitution granting itself almost total power and establishing a puppet legislature, which unanimously elected Prayuth prime minister. Brazil From 1964 to 1985, Brazil was controlled by an authoritarian military dictatorship. After taking power in a coup d'etat, commanders of the Brazilian Army, backed by anti-communist interests, including the United States, enacted a new constitution that restricted freedom of speech and outlawed political opposition. The military regime gained popular support by encouraging nationalism, promising economic growth, and rejecting communism. Brazil officially restored democracy in 1988. Chile On September 11, 1973, Chiles socialist government of Salvador Allende was overthrown in a coup d'etat backed by the United States. Over the next 17 years, a military junta headed by General Augusto Pinochet orchestrated the most brutal period of human rights abuses in Chilean history. During what it called the national reconstruction, Pinochets regime outlawed political participation, executed over 3,000 suspected dissidents, tortured tens of thousands of political prisoners, and forced some 200,000 Chileans into exile. Although Chile returned to democracy in 1990, the people continue to suffer from the effects of Pinochets military dictatorship on political and economic life. Argentina After overthrowing President Isabel Peron in a coup d'etat on March 24, 1976, a junta of right-wing military officers ruled Argentina until democracy was restored in December 1983. Operating under the official name of the National Reorganization Process, the junta persecuted social minorities, imposed censorship, and placed all levels of government under military control. During Argentinas so-called Dirty War period of military dictatorship, as many as 30,000 citizens were killed or disappeared. In 1985, five leaders of the former ruling military junta were convicted of crimes against humanity. Greece From 1967 to 1974, Greece was ruled by an extreme right-wing military dictatorship known as the Regime of the Colonels. On April 21, 1976, a group of four Greek Army colonels overthrew the caretaker government in a coup d'etat. In just the first week of its reign, the junta jailed, tortured, and exiled over 6,000 suspected political opponents in the name of protecting Greece from communism. Their actions were so swift and brutal that by September 1967 the European Commission of Human Rights had charged the Regime of the Colonels with multiple gross violations of human rights. Sources and Reference Geddes, Barbara. Military Rule. Annual Review of Political Science, Volume 17, 2014, https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/full/10.1146/annurev-polisci-032211-213418. Merieau, Eugenie. How Thailand Became the Worlds Last Military Dictatorship. The Atlantic, March 2019, https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2019/03/thailand-military-junta-election-king/585274/. Skidmore, Thomas E. The Politics of Military Rule in Brazil, 1964-1985.Oxford University Press, March 8, 1990, ISBN-10: 0195063163. Constable, Pamela. A Nation of Enemies: Chile Under Pinochet.W. W. Norton & Company, 1993, ISBN 0393309851. Lewis, Paul H. Guerrillas and Generals: The Dirty War in Argentina.Praeger, October 30, 2001, ISBN-10: 0275973603. Athenian, Richard. Inside the colonels' Greece.W. W. Norton, January 1, 1972, ISBN-10: 0393054667. FormatmlaapachicagoYour CitationLongley, Robert. "What Is a Military Dictatorship? Definition and Examples." ThoughtCo, Feb. 17, 2021, thoughtco.com/military-dictatorship-definition-and-examples-5091896.Longley, Robert. (2021, February 17). What Is a Military Dictatorship? Definition and Examples. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/military-dictatorship-definition-and-examples-5091896Longley, Robert. "What Is a Military Dictatorship? Definition and Examples." ThoughtCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/military-dictatorship-definition-and-examples-5091896 (accessed November 23, 2022). What Does Marginal Social Cost Mean?ameristar casino vicksburg sportsbook Marginal social cost (MSC) is the total cost society pays for the production of another unit or for taking further action in the economy. The total cost of the production of an additional unit of something is not merely the direct cost undertaken by the producer but also includes costs to other stakeholders and the environment as a whole. MSC is calculated as: Marginal Social Cost = MPC + MEC where: MPC = marginal private cost MEC = marginal external cost (positive or negative) \begin{ aligned} &\text{ Marginal Social Cost} = \text{ MPC} + \text{ MEC} \\ &\textbf{ where:} \\ &\text{ MPC} = \text{ marginal private cost} \\ &\text{ MEC} = \text{ marginal external cost (positive or negative)} \\ \end{ aligned} Marginal Social Cost=MPC+MECwhere:MPC=marginal private costMEC=marginal external cost (positive or negative) Understanding Marginal Social Cost MSC Marginal social cost reflects the impact that an economy feels from the production of one more unit of a good or service. Marginal Social Cost Example Consider, for example, the pollution of a towns river by a nearby coal plant. If the plants marginal social costs are higher than the plants marginal private costs, the marginal external cost is positive and results in a negative externality, meaning it produces a negative effect on the environment. The cost of the energy that is produced by the plant involves more than the rate that the company charges because the surrounding environment the town must bear the cost of the polluted river. This negative aspect must be factored in if a company strives to maintain the integrity of social responsibility or its responsibility to benefit the environment around it and society in general. Costs of Marginal Social Cost When determining the marginal social cost, both fixed and variable costs must be accounted for. Fixed costs are those that dont fluctuate such as salaries, or startup costs. Variable costs, on the other hand, change. For example, a variable cost could be a cost that changes based on production volume. The Issue With Quantification Marginal social cost is an economic principle that packs a major global punch, though, it is incredibly difficult to quantify in tangible dollars. Costs incurred by acts of production such as operational costs and money used for startup capital are fairly simple to calculate in tangible dollars. The issue comes when the far-reaching effects of production must also be factored in. Such costs are difficult, if not impossible, to pin down with an exact dollar amount, and in many instances, no price tag can be affixed to the effect. The importance with marginal social cost, then, is that the principle can be used to aid economists and legislators to develop an operating and production structure that invites corporations to cut down on the costs of their actions. Related Concepts Marginal social cost is related to marginalism, a concept that works to determine the amount of extra use derived from the production of one additional unit. The effects of the extra units on supply and demand are also studied. Marginal social cost can also be compared to the marginal benefit, the principle that determines the amount that consumers will give up to gain one extra unit. Set against the backdrop of a recession and the highest inflation rate in decades,no deposit bonus for wild tornado casino British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his finance minister, Jeremy Hunt, unveiled on Thursday a massive package of spending cuts and tax rises designed to balance Britains financial books and restore its credibility in international markets. But the question on everyones mind is whether the latest plans are a political decision, not an economic necessityand one that could hurt ordinary Britons while putting the U.K. on shakier economic footing. Britains latest economic planits second in as many months following former Prime Minister Liz Trusss market-crashing budget in Octobersets out 55 billion roughly divided between public spending cuts and tax hikes over the next five years. Among the main tax and spend measures include a freeze on the income threshold at which people begin to pay taxes (effectively a stealth tax that results in people paying more in taxes as their wages rise with inflation) and an increase in the windfall tax on oil and gas producers. Many of the proposed public sector cuts will not take effect until after the next election, slated for January 2025 at the latest, thus forestalling some economic pain and creating a political problem for the next government. The Office for Budget Responsibility, a fiscal watchdog, released its November growth forecast following Hunts statementpredicting that Britains economy would shrink by 1.4% next year, with living standards falling 7% over the next two years and wiping out the last eight years of gains. The scale of the economic overhaul might remind many Britons of the austerity measures introduced by David Camerons government in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis under then-finance minister George Osborne, resulting in what a United Nations report described as great misery for many Britons that included decimated public services and rampant poverty, contributing to people dying younger across the U.K. In a statement to the House of Commons on Thursday, Hunt, who once described Osborne as his old friend, said that the plan would help Britain face into the storm, while prioritizing stability, growth, and public services. No one can say that they werent warned austerity was coming. In his first speech outside 10 Downing Street last month, Sunak, who took office with the support of around 200 Conservative MPs after Truss was forced to step down, told Britons that difficult decisions would have to be made in order to restore economic stability and confidence in the country. His remarks came on the heels of weeks of economic insecurity following his predecessors libertarian gamble that tanked the pound and cost the country an estimated 30 billion ($35 billion), or nearly half of the countrys so-called fiscal black hole, after Trusss government announced a series of unfunded tax cuts that would largely benefit the wealthiest Britons, spooking global markets and prompting a rare rebuke from the IMF. Read More: Why U.K. Nurses Voted to Strike for the First Time Everand What That Means for Hospitals As Sunakwho was previously finance minister under former Prime Minister Boris Johnsonand Hunt have suggested, filling this black hole is imperative to restoring sound public finances and British credibility on the world stage. But many economists take a different view. As they see it, the black hole is not so much an economic certainty but a cosmic mirageone that risks plummeting the country further into recession and stunting growth at the worst possible time. For all of the focus on the fiscal black hole, there doesnt appear to be a clear public understanding of what it actually means. According to James Meadway, the director of the Progressive Economy Forum and a former economic advisor to former Labour Party Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell, it is this certainly colorful metaphor for something very technical and imprecise. The arithmetic behind the so-called black hole is based on Britains economic growth forecasts (which is lagging behind other G7 countries), the interest rates on the governments outstanding borrowings (which soared under Truss, but have fallen since), and the governments own debt target levels, explains Meadway. George Dibb, the head of the Centre for Economic Justice at the liberal Institute for Public Policy Research think tank, put it like this: The black hole is the difference between the governments own stated fiscal rules and their spending plans. In the case of this government, the target is for debt to fall as a share of the economy within five years. In other words, how big the black hole is depends in part on what the government deems to be sustainable public finance. This context of black holes makes it sound like some kind of hole that we are about to fall into [or that] there are red lines, which if we cross, the economy is going to go into crisisand thats not the case, says Dibb. Rather, the fiscal black hole is the result of political choices, he says. If the government chooses to have a certain fiscal rule, that black hole could disappear instantly. None of this is to say that Britains economic outlook is at all good. The country has taken on considerable debt in its response to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as its efforts to shield British households and businesses from the worst effects of the energy crisis spurred by Russias invasion of Ukraine. Inflation, which last month hit a 40-year high of 11.1%, is chipping away at the value of the governments previous commitments, including for sectors that are already being squeezed such as the National Health Service. Public sector workers such as rail operators, teachers, and nurses are demanding higher wages to keep up with inflation. It hasnt helped, of course, that the interest rates on government borrowing have also soared, thanks in large part to Sunaks predecessor Truss. We are materially worse off given rising energy prices and rising government debtthere is no way around that, says Dibb. But as he and others argue, massive spending cuts wont resolve these issues. Rather, they simply create a doom loop in which a lack of investment leads to low productivity and slower economic growth or even a recession, thus triggering continued spending cuts and tax rises that can even lead to higher debt levels had austerity not been pursued. Cutting your spending as we go into recession is the opposite of a Keynesian response, he says, referring to a school of economic thought that calls for economic stimulus in difficult conditions. Part of the reason that governments resort to spending cuts is because they are politically easiest to do. They are also bolstered by the argument, made by those who helped introduce austerity in 2010, that spending cuts give governments more capacity to borrow when major crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic arrive. But this, like the fiscal black hole itself, can be misleading. Because what Britain had in financial readiness to tackle the pandemic, it lacked in public health sector resilience to deal with its worst effects, in part because the National Health Service had been was crippled by years of austerity. Youve chased this financial outcome, the government seems to have less debt than it might have otherwise, you have much more capacity to borrow, says Meadway, but youve actually damaged the real economy and wider society, which is your real barrier against shocks in the future. In apparent anticipation of concerns over the NHS, Hunt announced that the government would commit to increase the health services budget by an extra 3.3 billion in each of the next two years. While the desire for fiscal responsibility is one reason that the government has taken these budgetary steps, the other stems from its desire to restore Britains international credibility, especially after Trusss tax cuts unleashed turmoil on the financial markets. They want to demonstrate that the grown ups are back in the room and these people are back in charge who are sensible and doing all the things which are not going to lead to further market turmoil, says Dibb. But in seeking to please the markets, however, the government may have overcorrectedinflicting more economic pain than is strictly necessary. What Is Marginal Revenue?sbr odds mlb reactoonz free spins Marginal revenue is the increase in revenue that results from the sale of one additional unit of output. While marginal revenue can remain constant over a certain level of output, it follows from the law of diminishing returns and will eventually slow down as the output level increases. In economic theory, perfectly competitive firms continue producing output until marginal revenue equals marginal cost. Key Takeaways Marginal revenue refers to the incremental change in earnings resulting from the sale of one additional unit. Analyzing marginal revenue helps a company identify the revenue generated from each additional unit sold. Marginal revenue is often shown graphically as a downward sloping line that represents how a company usually has to decrease its prices to drive additional sales. A company that is looking to maximize its profits will produce up to the point where marginal cost equals marginal revenue. When marginal revenue falls below marginal cost, firms typically do a cost-benefit analysis and halt production as it may cost more to sell a unit than what the company will receive as revenue. Marginal Revenue Understanding Marginal Revenue 1:27 Marginal revenue is a financial and economic calculation that determines how much revenue a company earns in revenue for each additional unit sold. As the price of a good is often tied to market supply and demand, a company's marginal revenue often varies based on how many units it has already sold. Marginal revenue is useful in several contexts. Companies use historical marginal revenue data to analyze customer demand for products in the market. They also use the information to set the most effective and efficient prices. Last, companies rely on marginal revenue to better understand forecasts; this information is then used to determine future production schedules such as material requirements planning. How to Calculate Marginal Revenue A company calculates marginal revenue by dividing the change in total revenue by the change in total output quantity. Ideally, the change in measurements captures the change from a single quantity to the next available quantity (i.e. the difference between the 100th and 101st unit sold). However, the formula above can still be used to capture the average marginal revenue across a series of units (i.e. the difference between the 100th and 115th unit sold). The formula for marginal revenue can be expressed as: Marginal Revenue = Change in Revenue Change in Quantity M R = T R Q \begin{ aligned}\text{ Marginal Revenue}&=\frac{ \text{ Change in Revenue}}{ \text{ Change in Quantity}}\\\\[-9pt]MR&=\frac{ \Delta TR}{ \Delta Q}\end{ aligned} Marginal RevenueMR=Change in QuantityChange in Revenue=QTR For example, a company sells its first 100 items for a total of $1,000. If it sells the next item for $8, the marginal revenue of the 101st item is $8. Marginal revenue disregards the previous average price of $10, as it only analyzes the incremental change. If it sells a total of 115 units for $1,100, the marginal revenue for units 101 through 115 is $100, or $6.67 per unit. Positive marginal revenue is informative, but it does not convey enough information to a company for smarter decision-making. Marginal transaction information should include expenses to garner the most insight. Marginal Revenue Curve Like other related concepts, marginal revenue can be graphically depicted. It is most often represented as a downward slowing straight line on a chart capturing price on the y-axis and quantity on the x-axis. The marginal revenue curve is often downward sloping because there is most often an economically inverse relationship between price and quantity. As a company decreases the price of its product, more units will likely be demanded; as the price is increased, demand often decreases. For this reason, a company must often decrease its price to increase its market share. By decreasing its price, the company will receive less marginal revenue for each additional unit sold. At some point, the market demand for additional units will drive the product price so low that it becomes unprofitable to manufacture additional units. In the graph below, marginal revenue is depicted by one of the blue lines. The quantity in which marginal revenue and marginal cost intersect is the optimal quantity to sell; the associated price point is noted as bullet E (where quantity per period and demand intersect). Marginal Revenue Curve. University of Minnesota Average Revenue Curve Marginal revenue can be analyzed by comparing marginal revenue at varying units against average revenue. Average revenue is simply the total amount of revenue received divided by the total quantity of goods sold. In a perfect competition, marginal revenue is most often equal to average revenue. This is because collective market forces make each participant a price-taker. For example, the market may dictate that it is not profitable to sell a good below $10. However, charging more than $10 per unit puts a company at a disadvantage to other companies selling at that price. In an imperfect competition, marginal revenue and average revenue will vary. This is because a firm must eventually lower its price to sell additional units. Both marginal revenue and average revenue tend to be downward sloping with marginal revenue often being the more steeper of the two lines. Consider an example where a company sells one good for $100. If it prices its second good at $90, its marginal revenue will be $90. However, its average revenue will be $95 (($100 + $90) / 2 units sold). In the real world example shown graphically below, this is the theoretical average revenue and marginal revenue curve for an agricultural chemical producer in a monopolistic industry. Both marginal revenue and average revenue decrease as the firm lowers prices to sell more quantities, though marginal revenue decreases faster than average revenue. Average Revenue Curve. The Economics of Food and Agriculture Markets Example of Marginal Revenue To assist with the calculation of marginal revenue, a revenue schedule outlines the total revenue earned, as well as the incremental revenue for each unit. The first column of a revenue schedule lists the projected quantities demanded in increasing order, and the second column lists the corresponding market price. The product of these two columns results in projected total revenues, in column three. The difference between the total projected revenue of one quantity demanded and the total projected revenue from the line below it is the marginal revenue of producing at the quantity demanded on the second line. For example, 10 units sell at $9 each, resulting in total revenues of $90; 11 units sell at $8.50, resulting in total revenues of $93.50. This indicates the marginal revenue of the 11th unit is $3.50 ($93.50 - $90). Marginal Revenue vs. Marginal Cost Any benefits gained from adding the additional unit of activity are marginal benefits. One such benefit occurs when marginal revenue exceeds marginal cost, resulting in a profit from new items sold. If the sale of one additional unit yields marginal revenue of $100 and marginal expenses of $80, the company will receive marginal profit of $20 for the additional item sold. A company experiences the best results when production and sales continue until marginal revenue equals marginal cost. Beyond that point, the cost of producing an additional unit will exceed the revenue generated. If the company sells one additional unit for $100 but incurs marginal revenue of $105, the company will lose $5 in the process of selling that extra unit. When marginal revenue falls below marginal cost, firms typically adopt the cost-benefit principle and halt production, as no further benefits are gathered from additional production. A perfectly competitive firm can sell as many units as it wants at the market price, whereas the monopolist can do so only if it cuts prices for its current and subsequent units. Competitive Firms vs. Monopolies Marginal revenue for competitive firms is typically constant. This is because the market dictates the optimal price level and companies do not have muchif anydiscretion over the price. As a result, perfectly competitive firms maximize profits when marginal costs equal market price and marginal revenue. Marginal revenue works differently for monopolies. For a monopolist, the marginal benefit of selling an additional unit is less than the market price. A firm's average revenue is its total revenue earned divided by the total units. A competitive firms marginal revenue always equals its average revenue and price. This is because the price remains constant over varying levels of output. In a monopoly, because the price changes as the quantity sold changes, marginal revenue diminishes with each additional unit and will always be equal to or less than average revenue. What Is the Marginal Revenue Formula? Marginal revenue is calculated as the change in revenue divided by the change in quantity for any two given levels of sales. The closer the two levels of sales, the more meaningful and precise the marginal revenue calculation will be. For example, imagine a company will make an additional $1,000 if it increases sales from 200 to 220 goods. The average marginal revenue received for each of these additional 20 units is $50/each. Should the company receive an additional $800 for increasing sales from 220 to 240, the average marginal revenue for these 20 units is $40/each. Is Marginal Revenue the Same As Profit? Marginal revenue only considers income received and does not reflect any marginal expenses required to manufacture or sell the goods. Therefore, marginal revenue is different from profit. What Is Marginal Revenue and Marginal Cost? Marginal revenue is the income gained by selling one additional unit, while marginal cost is the expense incurred for selling that one unit. Each measure the incremental change in dollars between varying levels of sales to determine at what level a company is most efficiently producing and selling goods. Why Is Marginal Revenue Important? Marginal revenue is important because it is a crucial indicator regarding the most idea level of activity a company should undertake. It is mathematically most ideal for a company to produce goods until marginal revenue is equal to marginal expenses; selling goods beyond this level usually means more expenses are incurred than revenue received for each good. What Does It Mean If Marginal Revenue Is Negative? If marginal revenue is negative, this means total revenue falls as additional units are sold. This may be the result of a company needing to cut prices to sell those additional units. In this case, strictly looking at just marginal revenue, it is more ideal for a company to have sold less goods but for a higher average price as more revenue would have been received. The Bottom Line Regardless of its sector, industry, or product line, companies must be aware of how increasing sales quantities impacts marginal revenue. If the company must decrease prices to generate additional sales, marginal revenue will slowly decrease to the point where it is no longer profitable to sell additional goods. Facebook Facebook Twitter Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College Mathematics is called the language of science. Italian astronomer and physicist Galileo Galilei is attributed with the quote, "Mathematics is the language in which God has written the universe." Most likely this quote is a summary of his statement in Opere Il Saggiatore: [The universe] cannot be read until we have learnt the language and become familiar with the characters in which it is written. It is written in mathematical language, and the letters are triangles, circles and other geometrical figures, without which means it is humanly impossible to comprehend a single word. Yet, is mathematics truly a language, like English or Chinese? To answer the question, it helps to know what language is and how the vocabulary and grammar of mathematics are used to construct sentences. Key Takeaways: Why Math is a Language In order to be considered a language, a system of communication must have vocabulary, grammar, syntax, and people who use and understand it. Mathematics meets this definition of a language. Linguists who don't consider math a language cite its use as a written rather than spoken form of communication. Math is a universal language. The symbols and organization to form equations are the same in every country of the world. What Is a Language? There are multiple definitions of "language." A language may be a system of words or codes used within a discipline. Language may refer to a system of communication using symbols or sounds. Linguist Noam Chomsky defined language as a set of sentences constructed using a finite set of elements. Some linguists believe language should be able to represent events and abstract concepts. Whichever definition is used, a language contains the following components: There must be a vocabulary of words or symbols. of words or symbols. Meaning must be attached to the words or symbols. must be attached to the words or symbols. A language employs grammar , which is a set of rules that outline how vocabulary is used. , which is a set of rules that outline how vocabulary is used. A syntax organizes symbols into linear structures or propositions. organizes symbols into linear structures or propositions. A narrative or discourse consists of strings of syntactic propositions. or discourse consists of strings of syntactic propositions. There must be (or have been) a group of people who use and understand the symbols. Mathematics meets all of these requirements. The symbols, their meanings, syntax, and grammar are the same throughout the world. Mathematicians, scientists, and others use math to communicate concepts. Mathematics describes itself (a field called meta-mathematics), real-world phenomena, and abstract concepts. Vocabulary, Grammar, and Syntax in Mathematics Emilija Manevska / Getty Images The vocabulary of math draws from many different alphabets and includes symbols unique to math. A mathematical equation may be stated in words to form a sentence that has a noun and a verb, just like a sentence in a spoken language. For example: 3 + 5 = 8 could be stated as "Three added to five equals eight." Breaking this down, nouns in math include: Arabic numerals (0, 5, 123.7) Fractions (14, 59, 2 13) Variables (a, b, c, x, y, z) Expressions (3x, x 2 , 4 + x) , 4 + x) Diagrams or visual elements (circle, angle, triangle, tensor, matrix) Infinity () Pi () Imaginary numbers (i, -i) The speed of light (c) Verbs include symbols including: Equalities or inequalities (=, <, >) Actions such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division (+, -, x or *, or /) Other operations (sin, cos, tan, sec) If you try to perform a sentence diagram on a mathematical sentence, you'll find infinitives, conjunctions, adjectives, etc. As in other languages, the role played by a symbol depends on its context. International Rules Mathematics grammar and syntax, like vocabulary, are international. No matter what country you're from or what language you speak, the structure of the mathematical language is the same. Formulas are read from left to right. The Latin alphabet is used for parameters and variables. To some extent, the Greek alphabet is also used. Integers are usually drawn from i, j, k, l, m, n. Real numbers are represented by a, b, c, , , . Complex numbers are indicated by wand z. Unknowns are x, y, z. Names of functions are usually f, g, h. The Greek alphabet is used to represent specific concepts. For example, is used to indicate wavelength and means density. Parentheses and brackets indicate the order in which the symbols interact. The way functions, integrals, and derivatives are phrased is uniform. Language as a Teaching Tool StockFinland / Getty Images Understanding how mathematical sentences work is helpful when teaching or learning math. Students often find numbers and symbols intimidating, so putting an equation into a familiar language makes the subject more approachable. Basically, it's like translating a foreign language into a known one. While students typically dislike word problems, extracting the nouns, verbs, and modifiers from a spoken/written language and translating them into a mathematical equation is a valuable skill to have. Word problems improve comprehension and increase problem-solving skills. Because mathematics is the same all over the world, math can act as a universal language. A phrase or formula has the same meaning, regardless of another language that accompanies it. In this way, math helps people learn and communicate, even if other communication barriers exist. The Argument Against Math as a Language Anne Helmenstine Not everyone agrees that mathematics is a language. Some definitions of "language" describe it as a spoken form of communication. Mathematics is a written form of communication. While it may be easy to read a simple addition statement aloud (e.g., 1 + 1 = 2), it's much harder to read other equations aloud (e.g., Maxwell's equations). Also, the spoken statements would be rendered in the speaker's native language, not a universal tongue. However, sign language would also be disqualified based on this criterion. Most linguists accept sign language as a true language. There are a handful of dead languages that no one alive knows how to pronounce or even read anymore. A strong case for mathematics as a language is that modern elementary-high school curricula uses techniques from language education for teaching mathematics. Educational psychologist Paul Riccomini and colleagues wrote that students learning mathematics require "a robust vocabulary knowledge base; flexibility; fluency and proficiency with numbers, symbols, words, and diagrams; and comprehension skills." Sources Listen to This dr slot sister sites shiba swapArticle To hear more audio stories from publications like The New York Times, download Audm for iPhone or Android. KYIV, Ukraine As night falls and darkness descends on Kyiv, the flashlights on smartphones begin to flicker on like fairy lights, leading the way home. Dogs wear glow sticks around their necks; flower merchants switch on headlamps to show off the vibrant colors of their lilacs and peonies; and children are outfitted in reflective clothing for safety. The streets of this capital city, illuminated with nightlife only weeks ago, are now shrouded in darkness and shadows after sunset. Thats the result of the rolling power outages Ukraine has put in place to prevent a complete collapse of the national energy grid, after repeated Russian bombardments. Failing on the battlefield, President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia has stepped up his campaign to break the nations resolve by degrading daily life, with strikes aimed at disabling critical infrastructure like electric power. That included a missile strike this week that disabled the pumps that drive water, leaving most of the city without water for a day. Image Waiting in line to get water from a public tap in Oles Gonchar Park after a Russian missile knocked out water service to much of Kyiv on Monday. Image The moon rising over the Cathedral of St. Sophia on Sunday. After that attack, Ukraine this week imposed even more sweeping power rationing across the country. In the capital, residents were told they will need to go 12 hours a day without power, with neighborhoods rotating the times they will have access to electricity. When the sun is out even if obscured by slate-gray skies Kyiv can still feel relatively normal, with crowded shops, busy restaurants and buzzing cafes. The night, however, is different. At night, the city is a dance of darkness and light, shadow and silhouette, at times menacing and at other moments beautiful. And because neighborhoods alternate the times they have power, moving across the city can create an eerie chiaroscuro of bold contrasts between light and dark. The shifts can play tricks on the eye. In the gloaming, the lamps that normally illuminate the Andriivskyi Descent an ancient cobblestone street in the heart of Kyiv that runs from the majestic St. Andrews Church perched high on a hill down to the old trading quarter along the Dnipro River were dark on Saturday. Explosion in Poland: A Ukrainian air-defense missile not a Russian weapon most likely caused a deadly explosion in a Polish village, a top NATO official and Polands president said, easing fears that the military alliance would become more deeply embroiled in the war. A Ukrainian air-defense missile not a Russian weapon most likely caused a deadly explosion in a Polish village, a top NATO official and Polands president said, easing fears that the military alliance would become more deeply embroiled in the war. Retaking Kherson: On Nov. 11, Ukrainian soldiers swept into the southern city of Kherson, seizing a major prize from the retreating Russian army and dealing a bitter blow to President Vladimir V. Putin. Days after the liberation, evidence and accounts of torture are emerging. On Nov. 11, Ukrainian soldiers swept into the southern city of Kherson, seizing a major prize from the retreating Russian army and dealing a bitter blow to President Vladimir V. Putin. Days after the liberation, evidence and accounts of torture are emerging. Infrastructure Attacks: In a relentless and intensifying barrage of missiles, Moscow is destroying Ukraines critical infrastructure, depriving millions of heat, light and clean water. For Ukraine, keeping the lights on as winter looms has become one of its biggest battles. In a relentless and intensifying barrage of missiles, Moscow is destroying Ukraines critical infrastructure, depriving millions of heat, light and clean water. For Ukraine, keeping the lights on as winter looms has become one of its biggest battles. Beta Testing New Weapons: Ukraine has become a testing ground for state-of-the-art weapons and information systems that Western officials predict could shape warfare for generations to come. Merchants selling a varied assortment of jewelry, embroidery, decorative coins, old cameras and, now, war memorabilia hurried to pack their goods before nightfall. The flashing blue lights from a police car shimmered off the wet and glistening road as a child played an accordion under a lone light. Image Pedestrians and bar patrons on Sunday in a neighborhood mostly gone dark. Image Light spilling from a restaurant in Kyiv. Strangers passing on the street can sometimes stir apprehension amid the shadows, but music can transform the scene. Across the capital in the early evenings, musicians strum guitars by lantern or play the piano by flashlight in alleys and on street corners, singing Ukrainian anthems and Western pop ballads. Walking the streets of the capital might bring to mind the Emily Dickinson poem about human resilience: We Grow Accustomed to the Dark. The Bravest grope a little And sometimes hit a Tree Directly in the Forehead, the poet wrote. But as they learn to see Either the Darkness alters Or something in the sight Adjusts itself to Midnight And Life steps almost straight. Image Dusk in the Podil neighborhood on Friday. The patchwork electricity allowances make for bold contrasts. Image A boy played the accordion for passers-by on Andriivskyi Descent after dark on Saturday. Still, the darkness can bring danger. Car accidents have soared 25 percent, according to the police. The authorities have asked that parents outfit their children in reflective clothing, and President Volodymyr Zelensky urged drivers this week to be extra cautious at night. The Ukrainian authorities have compelling reasons to ration power. A collapse of the Ukrainian power grid would cripple sewage systems. Fuel pumps at gas stations would stop working. Traffic lights would switch off and subway systems would come to a halt. In homes, food in refrigerators would spoil and there would be no heat to protect from the bitter winter cold. Communication networks would cease to function, and hospitals would strain to treat the sick and wounded. That is already the medieval state of affairs for hundreds of thousands of civilians still living in towns and cities along the vast, 1,000 mile front line and for those trapped in places destroyed and now occupied by Russian forces. Image Dusk falling on the Podil neighborhood along the Dnipro River. Image A pedestrian walking in the dark at Poshtova Square on Friday. As they have done throughout the war, Ukrainians are adapting. Oleksandra Yefymenko, 28, said she always had bad vision, especially at night. When the power went out at her home, she said, I was stepping on my cats and crashing into the furniture. So she went to the eye doctor and got corrective lenses. To see is the best possible thing, she said. As well as to live without Russia. Others noted how in the darkness the stars seem brighter and the moon more brilliant. Anna Pantyukhova, 36, is determined to keep doing the things that make her and her family happy. When she went to the cycling track, she was warned that the lights would switch off early. My sons adapted quickly, but for me it was harder, she said, of the cycling. The only thing I could see were the white driving lines. Since then, we have been practicing with headlights. But we dont complain, she continued. We are grateful that we live in a relatively safe city and can do our usual things. Image A dark street near Maidan Nezalezhnosti, or Independence Square, on Saturday. Image Misha Kachur, a musician, playing piano and singing for a small crowd in an underpass. Still, the darkness has shifted the mood in the capital. In the early months of the war, Kyiv was essentially transformed into a bunker as Russian shells thundered on the citys outskirts daily. Many people fled while Moscows troops bore down on the city. Then the Russians were driven out of the Kyiv region and other northern cities. Tens of thousands of people returned. In the summer, with Russian forces driven far from the city, a sense of security took hold. But after three straight Mondays this month of broad aerial assaults on Kyiv and other cities across the country and the shadows over the capital now the mood has changed again. On Monday night, after the wave of Russian strikes that compromised the water supply, the feeling in Kyiv was tense and strange. The contours of people visible in the moonlight, straining to carry containers filled with water drawn from wells, was something new and foreboding. Obviously, I am a little bit terrified right now, said Daria, 25, as she watched people fill water bottles in a darkened park on Monday night. Because it is only October, and I am thinking about all the next months. And its going to be colder and colder. Cursing Russia, she said she had no plans to leave. But Olga Minchik, 39, said the darkness can lead to lovely moments, like when she takes her dog for a walk, with his collar illuminated with LED lights. Im walking my dog with a light and when we meet with other dog walkers we put our lights on the trees, she said. It looks very atmospheric as if we were having a party. Image People walk along a path in a park on Sunday. Anna Lukinova. Advertisement Continue reading the main story What Is a Normal Distribution?lucky nugget casino login Normal distribution, also known as the Gaussian distribution, is a probability distribution that is symmetric about the mean, showing that data near the mean are more frequent in occurrence than data far from the mean. In graphical form, the normal distribution appears as a "bell curve". Key Takeaways The normal distribution is the proper term for a probability bell curve. In a normal distribution the mean is zero and the standard deviation is 1. It has zero skew and a kurtosis of 3. Normal distributions are symmetrical, but not all symmetrical distributions are normal. Many naturally-occurring phenomena tend to approximate the normal distribution. In finance, most pricing distributions are not, however, perfectly normal. Normal Distribution Understanding Normal Distribution 1:13 The normal distribution is the most common type of distribution assumed in technical stock market analysis and in other types of statistical analyses. The standard normal distribution has two parameters: the mean and the standard deviation. The normal distribution model is important in statistics and is key to the Central Limit Theorem (CLT). This theory states that averages calculated from independent, identically distributed random variables have approximately normal distributions, regardless of the type of distribution from which the variables are sampled (provided it has finite variance). The normal distribution is one type of symmetrical distribution. Symmetrical distributions occur when where a dividing line produces two mirror images. Not all symmetrical distributions are normal, since some data could appear as two humps or a series of hills in addition to the bell curve that indicates a normal distribution. Properties of the Normal Distribution The normal distribution has several key features and properties that define it. First, its mean (average), median (midpoint), and mode (most frequent observation) are all equal to one another. Moreover, these values all represent the peak, or highest point, of the distribution. The distribution then falls symmetrically around the mean, the width of which is defined by the standard deviation. All normal distributions can be described by just two parameters: the mean and the standard deviation. The Empirical Rule For all normal distributions, 68.2% of the observations will appear within plus or minus one standard deviation of the mean; 95.4% of the observations will fall within +/- two standard deviations; and 99.7% within +/- three standard deviations. This fact is sometimes referred to as the "empirical rule," a heuristic that describes where most of the data in a normal distribution will appear. This means that data falling outside of three standard deviations ("3-sigma") would signify rare occurrences. Image by Sabrina Jiang Investopedia 2021 Skewness Skewness measures the degree of symmetry of a distribution. The normal distribution is symmetric and has a skewness of zero. If the distribution of a data set instead has a skewness less than zero, or negative skewness (left-skewness), then the left tail of the distribution is longer than the right tail; positive skewness (right-skewness) implies that the right tail of the distribution is longer than the left. Kurtosis Kurtosis measures the thickness of the tail ends of a distribution in relation to the tails of a distribution. The normal distribution has a kurtosis equal to 3.0. Distributions with larger kurtosis greater than 3.0 exhibit tail data exceeding the tails of the normal distribution (e.g., five or more standard deviations from the mean). This excess kurtosis is known in statistics as leptokurtic, but is more colloquially known as "fat tails." The occurrence of fat tails in financial markets describes what is known as tail risk. Distributions with low kurtosis less than 3.0 (platykurtic) exhibit tails that are generally less extreme ("skinnier") than the tails of the normal distribution. The Formula for the Normal Distribution The normal distribution follows the following formula. Note that only the values of the mean ( ) and standard deviation () are necessary Normal Distribution Formula. where: x = value of the variable or data being examined and f(x) the probability function = the mean = the standard deviation How Normal Distribution Is Used in Finance The assumption of a normal distribution is applied to asset prices as well as price action. Traders may plot price points over time to fit recent price action into a normal distribution. The further price action moves from the mean, in this case, the greater the likelihood that an asset is being over or undervalued. Traders can use the standard deviations to suggest potential trades. This type of trading is generally done on very short time frames as larger timescales make it much harder to pick entry and exit points. Similarly, many statistical theories attempt to model asset prices under the assumption that they follow a normal distribution. In reality, price distributions tend to have fat tails and, therefore, have kurtosis greater than three. Such assets have had price movements greater than three standard deviations beyond the mean more often than would be expected under the assumption of a normal distribution. Even if an asset has gone through a long period where it fits a normal distribution, there is no guarantee that the past performance truly informs the future prospects. Example of a Normal Distribution Many naturally-occurring phenomena appear to be normally-distributed. Take, for example, the distribution of the heights of human beings. The average height is found to be roughly 175 cm (5' 9"), counting both males and females. As the chart below shows, most people conform to that average. Meanwhile, taller and shorter people exist, but with decreasing frequency in the population. According to the empirical rule, 99.7% of all people will fall with +/- three standard deviations of the mean, or between 154 cm (5' 0") and 196 cm (6' 5"). Those taller and shorter than this would be quite rare (just 0.15% of the population each). What Is Meant By the Normal Distribution? The normal distribution describes a symmetrical plot of data around its mean value, where the width of the curve is defined by the standard deviation. It is visually depicted as the "bell curve." Why Is the Normal Distribution Called "Normal?" The normal distribution is technically known as the Gaussian distribution, however it took on the terminology "normal" following scientific publications in the 19thcentury showing that many natural phenomena appeared to "deviate normally" from the mean. This idea of "normal variability" was made popular as the "normal curve" by the naturalist Sir Francis Galton in his 1889 work, Natural Inheritance. What Are the Limitations of the Normal Distribution in Finance? Although the normal distribution is an extremely important statistical concept, its applications in finance can be limited because financial phenomenasuch as expected stock-market returnsdo not fall neatly within a normal distribution. In fact, prices tend to follow more of a log-normal distribution that is right-skewed and with fatter tails. Therefore, relying too heavily on a bell curve when making predictions about these events can lead to unreliable results. Although most analysts are well aware of this limitation, it is relatively difficult to overcome this shortcoming because it is often unclear which statistical distribution to use as an alternative. amatic slots free gamesshows grade level based on the word's complexity. dandy [ dan-dee ]/ dn di / New Word List Save This Word!See synonyms for: dandy / dandies on Thesaurus.comThis shows grade level based on the word's complexity. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.[ dan-dee ]/ dn di /Save This Word!See synonyms for: dandy / dandies on Thesaurus.comThis shows grade level based on the word's complexity. noun, plural dandies.a man who is excessively concerned about his clothes and appearance; a fop.Informal. something or someone of exceptional or first-rate quality: Your reply was a dandy. adjective, dandier, dandiest.characteristic of a dandy; foppish.Informal. fine; excellent; first-rate: a dandy vacation spot. OTHER WORDS FROM dandy Words nearby dandy Words related to dandy (2 of 2) dandy2/ (dnd) / nounanother name for dengue Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 Other Idioms and Phrases with dandy dandy see fine and dandy. Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012The American Heritage Idioms Dictionary Copyright 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Question dandyFirst recorded in 177080; origin uncertaindandily, dandyishly, dandiacally[dan-dahy-uhk-lee], /dnda k li/, adverbdandyish, dandiacal, adjectivedandyism, noundandle, Dandolo, Dandong, dandruff, D&S, dandy, dandy brush, dandy fever, dandy roll, Dane, DanegeldDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 Illustration: Xia Qing/GT "How much do you earn a month?" "When are you going to get married?" "Did your final exams go well?" For most of China's Generation Z who are returning to their hometown to celebrate the upcoming Spring Festival, these questions from their overzealous relatives will be overwhelming. To cope with these questions, a specially made sweater has gone viral on Chinese online marketplace Taobao. Terms and sentences including "salaries are confidential," "still single," "do not ask about my exams" are printed on the sweater, and the cumulative sales have already exceeded 10,000 units. Many Chinese netizens said that it is their "dream sweater" for the Spring Festival. However, some are worried that elderly people may feel hurt by such a sweater, or they may think young people are not willing to share their daily lives. In fact, the sweater reflects the widening generation gap in China. China's Generation Z and the elderly should try to understand each other, communicate in a more comfortable way, and perhaps one day, young Chinese people will no longer need such a sweater. What Is Return on Invested Capital (ROIC)?vegaswild casino login Return on invested capital (ROIC) is a calculation used to assess a company's efficiency in allocating capital to profitable investments. The ROIC formula involves dividing net operating profit after tax (NOPAT) by invested capital. ROIC gives a sense of how well a company is using its capital to generate profits. Comparing a company's ROIC with its weighted average cost of capital (WAAC) reveals whether invested capital is being used effectively. Key Takeaways Return on invested capital (ROIC) is a calculation used to determine how well a company allocates its capital to profitable projects or investments. Seen another way, ROIC is the amount of money a company makes that is above the average cost it pays for its debt and equity capital. To calculate return on invested capital (ROIC), you divide net operating profit after tax (NOPAT) by invested capital. The return on invested capital can be used as a benchmark to calculate the value of other companies. A company is thought to be creating value if its ROIC exceeds its weighted average cost of capital (WACC). The Return On Invested Capital (ROIC) ROIC Formula and Calculation 1:54 The formula for ROIC is: ROIC = NOPAT Invested Capital where: NOPAT = Net operating profit after tax \begin{ aligned} &\text{ ROIC} = \frac{ \text{ NOPAT} }{ \text{ Invested Capital} } \\ &\textbf{ where:}\\ &\text{ NOPAT} = \text{ Net operating profit after tax} \\ \end{ aligned} ROIC=Invested CapitalNOPATwhere:NOPAT=Net operating profit after tax Written another way, ROIC = (net income dividends) / (debt + equity). The ROIC formula is calculated by assessing the value in the denominator, total capital, which is the sum of a company's debt and equity. There are several ways to calculate this value. One is to subtract cash and non-interest-bearing current liabilities (NIBCL)including tax liabilities and accounts payable, as long as these are not subject to interest or feesfrom total assets. A third method of calculating invested capital is to add the book value of a company's equity to the book value of its debt and then subtract non-operating assets, including cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, and assets of discontinued operations. A final way to calculate invested capital is to obtain the working capital figure by subtracting current liabilities from current assets. Next, you obtain non-cash working capital by subtracting cash from the working capital value you just calculated. Finally, non-cash working capital is added to a company's fixed assets. An ROIC higher than the cost of capital means a company is healthy and growing, while an ROIC lower than the cost of capital suggests an unsustainable business model. The value in the numerator can also be calculated in several ways. The most straightforward way is to subtract dividends from a company's net income. On the other hand, because a company may have benefited from a one-time source of income unrelated to its core businessa windfall from foreign exchange rate fluctuations, for exampleit is often preferable to look at net operating profit after taxes (NOPAT). NOPAT is calculated by adjusting the operating profit for taxes: NOPAT = (operating profit) x (1 effective tax rate) Many companies will report their effective tax rates for the quarter or fiscal year in their earnings releases, but not all companies do thismeaning it may be necessary to calculate the rate by dividing a company's tax expense by net income. What ROIC Can Tell You ROIC is always calculated as a percentage and is usually expressed as an annualized or trailing 12-month value. It should be compared to a company's cost of capital to determine whether the company is creating value. If ROIC is greater than a firm's weighted average cost of capital (WACC)the most commonly used cost of capital metricvalue is being created and these firms will trade at a premium. A common benchmark for evidence of value creation is a return of two percentage points above the firm's cost of capital. Some firms run at a zero-return level, and while they may not be destroying value, these companies have no excess capital to invest in future growth. ROIC is one of the most important and informative valuation metrics to calculate. However, it is more important for some sectors than others, since companies that operate oil rigs or manufacture semiconductors invest capital much more intensively than those that require less equipment. Limitations of ROIC One downside of this metric is that it tells nothing about what segment of the business is generating value. If you make your calculation based on net income (minus dividends) instead of NOPAT, the result can be even more opaque, since the return may derive from a single, non-recurring event. ROIC provides the necessary context for other metrics such as the price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio. Viewed in isolation, the P/E ratio might suggest a company is oversold, but the decline could be because the company is no longer generating value for shareholders at the same rate (or at all). On the other hand, companies that consistently generate high rates of return on capital invested probably deserve to trade at a premium compared to other stocks, even if their P/E ratios seem prohibitively high. Example of How to Use ROIC As an example, let's consider Target Corporation (TGT). The company calculates its ROIC directly in its fiscal year 2021 10-K, showing the components that went into the calculation: The ROIC calculation begins with operating income, then adds nets other income to get EBIT. Operating lease interest is then added back and income taxes subtracted to get NOPAT. Target's invested capital includes shareholder equity, long-term debt, and operating lease liabilities. Target subtracts cash and cash equivalents from the sum of those figures to get its invested capital. What Is Invested Capital? Invested capital is the total amount of money raised by a company by issuing securitieswhich is the sum of the company's equity, debt, and capital lease obligations. Invested capital is not a line item in the company's financial statement because debt, capital leases, and stockholders equity are each listed separately on the balance sheet. What Does Return on Invested Capital Tell You? Return on invested capital (ROIC) determines how efficiently a company puts the capital under its control toward profitable investments or projects. The ROIC ratio gives a sense of how well a company is using the money it has raised externally to generate returns. Comparing a company's return on invested capital with its weighted average cost of capital (WACC) reveals whether invested capital is being used effectively. How Do You Compute ROIC? The ROIC formula is net operating profit after tax (NOPAT) divided by invested capital. Companies with a steady or improving return on capital are unlikely to put significant amounts of new capital to work. His wife passed away and they had kids, and he wanted to focus on being a dad so he just stopped to raise his kids. My dad was a sailor, and all through my childhood he was away half of the time at sea, and to an extent I have a similar job. As an example of good science-and-society policymaking, the history of fluoride may be more of a cautionary tale. Their leader, Njie, still going by Dave during the operation, would stay a safe distance away until the State House was secure. The Shadowy U.S. Veteran Who Tried to Overthrow a Country|Jacob Siegel|January 6, 2015|DAILY BEAST She also practises etching, pen-and-ink drawing, as well as crayon and water-color sketching. Women in the fine arts, from the Seventh Century B.C. to the Twentieth Century A.D.|Clara Erskine Clement No law of that country must exceed in words the number of letters in their alphabet, which consists only in two-and-twenty. Gulliver's Travels|Jonathan Swift Mr. Spurrell came down to see a horse, and we shall be very glad to have the benefit of his opinion by-and-by. Punch, or the London Charivari, Volume 107, November 3, 1894|Various "Dad and Hans Rutter, as you know, weren't the sort of men to sit around and mourn over anything like that," she laughed. Raw Gold|Bertrand W. Sinclair Jet Lis latest fantasy-action flick The Sorcerer and the White Snake (Its Love / ) has hit the top of the international box-office charts on its release from the 30th of September to the 2nd of October, taking in revenue of around $16 million, according to website Screendaily.com. The file gets a 6.5/10 rating on IMDB.com Animated film The Smurfs came in second place with an international revenue of $ 10.7m. In third place with $9.4 million was abduction which stars Taylor Lautner, of Twilight fame. This is the 12th time a Jet Li film has topped the international box office charts. The movie will be released in Japan, S. Korea, West Europe and North America after the National Day holiday. Its Love leads the mainland box office results since it hit the national screens on September 28. It has taken in 76.2 million RMB in revenue (about $1.2 million) during the 40th week (September 26 October 2) of 2011. The production company responsible for Its Love, the China Juli Entertainment Media co. Ltd, has announced that there will be a 3D sequel of the movie and it will start shooting at the end of this year. Chen Nan Chinese Films Jet Lis Movie Tops International Box Office Chart for the 12th Timeadded by chinatimesonline on View all posts by chinatimesonline What Is Impeachment?gambling sites that accept apple pay Impeachment, as authorized by Article II, Section 4 of the U.S. Constitution, is the formal process that allows Congress to bring charges of "Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors"against high-ranking civil officers, such as the president. The power to impeach serves as the first step in an important check on the executive and judicial branches of government regarding violations of law and abuses of power. When impeached by the House of Representatives, the official goes on trial and, if convicted by the Senate, is removed from office. Key Takeaways Impeachment, as defined in Article II, Section 4 of the U.S. Constitution, is the formal process by which Congress brings charges against high-ranking civil officers, such as the president, in a bid to remove them from office. Only the U.S. House of Representatives has the power to impeach a federal official, and only the Senate can convict and remove the impeached official. Only three U.S. presidents have been impeached by the HouseAndrew Johnson, Bill Clinton, and Donald Trumpand all were acquitted by the Senate. How Impeachment Works Article II, Section 4 of the U.S. Constitution says: The President, Vice President and all Civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors. Importantly, impeachment is not the same as removal or conviction, though many people think that is the case. Impeachment is a charging process, similar to an indictment in a criminal proceeding. Impeachment at the federal level is rare; removal even more so. Impeachment proceedings have been initiated by the House of Representatives more than 60 times since the adoption of the U.S. Constitution. Just 20 of those proceedings have actually ended with impeachment. There have been just eight convictions by the Senate, all of them of federal judges. Only three U.S. PresidentsAndrew Johnson, Bill Clinton, and Donald Trumphave been impeached by the U.S. House of Representatives. All three were acquitted by the Senate. Officials Subject to Impeachment The Constitution names the president and vice president as subject to impeachment. The question of exactly who "all Civil Officers of the United States" are has been the subject of much discussion. The Federalist Papers85 essays by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and James Madison that comprise a foundational document of American historymake clear that impeachment serves as a check on the executive and judicial branches of government. The essays do not, however, specify who within those branches would be considered civil officers. The term "civil officers" is broad enough to include any officer appointed by the federal government. Based on historic precedent, federal judges including Supreme Court justices are subject to impeachment, as are members of the president's cabinet. Military officerswho face discipline under the military codeare not subject to impeachment, nor are members of Congress, a precedent established in 1799. Impeachable Offenses There was considerable debate at the 1787 Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia over the definition of impeachable crimes. Initially, the founders said the president and others could be removed by impeachment and conviction for "corrupt conduct" or "malpractice or neglect of duty." Later, the wording was changed to "treason, bribery, or corruption," then to just "treason or bribery," before finally settling on "treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors." The debate did not stop there because the phrase "high crimes and misdemeanors" left the matter of impeachable offenses open to interpretation. Since the ratification of the Constitution in 1789, the definition of "high crimes and misdemeanors" has plagued members of Congress, lawyers, and legal scholars alike. The framers borrowed the term "high crimes and misdemeanors" from British law, wherein it referred to crimes by public officials against the government. In practical terms, as Representative Gerald Ford said in 1970, "An impeachable offense is whatever a majority of the House of Representatives considers it to be at a given moment in history." Duties of the House and Senate Article I, Section 2 of the Constitution states that the House of Representatives has the sole power to impeach. The House, however, does not have the power to remove an impeached individual. That duty goes to the Senate, which holds a trial and decides whether to convict and remove or acquit. Impeachment begins when the House adopts a resolution calling for an investigation by a House committee into charges against the official in question. The committee may recommend impeachment or dismissal. The House then votes, by simple majority, to approve or dismiss articles of impeachment. Following approval, the House appoints managers to conduct the impeachment trial in the Senate. The House then passes a resolution informing the Senate about the articles of impeachment and the names of the House managers who will bring the case before the Senate. When the Senate receives the resolution, that body advises the House when it will receive the managers and begin the impeachment trial. The Senate becomes the court with the president of the Senate presiding, except when the person impeached is the president, in which case, the presiding officer is the chief justice of the Supreme Court. To convict and remove an impeached individual from office requires a two-thirds majority in the Senate. Penalties of Impeachment and Conviction The penalty for impeachment is a trial in the Senate. Because impeachment is the same as an indictment, there is no other penalty, except perhaps to one's reputation. Impeachment, as discussed above, only requires a simple affirmative majority in the House of Representatives. The Constitution requires a two-thirds affirmative vote in the Senate to convict an impeached person. The penalty for conviction is removal from office. The Senate also has the option, by simple majority vote, to disqualify the official from holding public office in the future. There is no appeal to impeachment or conviction because it involves a political rather than criminal question. History of Federal Impeachment Proceedings Of the 20 federal impeachment proceedings since 1799, 10 have occurred in the past 100 years. Impeached officials included 15 federal judges, three presidents, one senator, and a cabinet secretary (the secretary of war). These impeachments resulted in seven acquittals, eight convictions (all judges and they were removed from office), three dismissals, and one resignation with no further action. As discussed earlier, only three U.S. presidents have been impeached by the HouseAndrew Johnson, Bill Clinton, and Donald Trumpand all were acquitted by the Senate. President Richard Nixon was never impeached, although he was threatened with impeachment over the Watergate scandal of 1974. Nixon stepped down before Congress could vote on whether to proceed with impeachment, becoming the only U.S. President to have resigned from office. Real-Life Example of Impeachment A recent impeachment and Senate trial occurred when former President Trump was impeached by the House of Representatives on Dec. 18, 2019. The resolution contained two impeachment articles: 1. Abuse of power This example of high crimes and misdemeanors accused Trump of corruptly attempting to solicit Ukraine to conduct investigations to discredit his Democratic political rivals. The article passed 230-197 with Republican members of the House united in their opposition and two Democrats also voting against the article. 2. Obstruction of Congress The obstruction of Congress charge, which also fell under high crimes and misdemeanors, arose from accusations that when Congress tried to investigate the Ukraine situation, Trump ordered his administration to defy each attempt at obtaining information and testimony. This article passed 229-198 with one additional Democrat joining Republicans in opposition to the charge. The articles of impeachment were submitted to the Senate on Jan. 16, 2020, and the trial began. Due to objections by Republican senators, no witnesses or documents were subpoenaed. On Feb. 5, 2020, the president was acquitted on both counts. The vote on Article I, abuse of power, was 48 for conviction, 52 for acquittal. On Article II, obstruction of Congress, the vote was 47 for conviction, 53 for acquittal. From start to finish, not counting the accumulation of evidence, these impeachment proceedings took a little less than two months. That said, there is no set amount of time for impeachments and very few specifics about it in the Constitution. For that reason, every impeachment is unique. Owners of the $2.4-billion integrated resort Okada Manila, located in the Philippine capital, are reportedly in talks with local holding firms for the potential backdoor-listing of the gaming business. The resort had its official opening this spring. Local news outlet Inquirer Business today reported citing unnamed sources that Tiger Resort, Leisure & Entertainment, which is known to be the manager of the luxury casino complex, is entering the final stages of negotiations to acquire publicly listed firm Bright Kindle Resources and Investments Inc. According to people with considerable knowledge of the matter the casino resorts owner had previously discussed potential acquisition with three firms, but it was eventually Bright Kindle Resources that caught its attention as a suitable vehicle to potentially list its business in the Philippines. Reportedly, negotiations over the terms of the acquisition deal are expected to be completed within the next several weeks. Another source pointed out that the upcoming acquisition would only come as part of the Okada Manila owners preparatory work for eventual listingon the Philippine stock market. The actual listing, which will be performed by infusion of the gambling business into Bright Kindle Resources, is expected to occur after around two years. As mentioned above, Tiger Resort is the company behind the Okada Manila integrated resort. It is a subsidiary of Universal Entertainment Corp., the Japanese manufacturer of pachinko gaming machines. Universal Entertainment was founded by Japanese businessman Kazuo Okada. Earlier this year, Mr. Okada was ousted from the boardof the gaming machine manufacturer and from the boards of a number of its subsidiaries over suspicions that he had transferred a considerable amount of money to a third party which then extended the money to a company owned by the businessman himself. Backdoor-Listing Popular among Manilas Casino Resorts Okada Manila was the third casino resort to open doors within the Entertainment City, multi-billion dollar scheme located at the heart of the Philippine capital. And it will be the third resort to have its managing company backdoor-listed. Bloomberry, the owner of Solaire Resort & Casino, opted for backdoor-listing on the Philippine Stock Exchange back in 2012. Melco Resorts & Entertainment, the Hong Kong-based casino developer owned by Lawrence Ho, also listed its Manila gaming operations through a listing vehicle. The resorts were the first and the second one to open doors as part of the major Entertainment City project. Okada Manila eventually opened doors in the spring of 2017 after several delays partly caused by owner Tiger Resorts failure to find a local partner to work with on the $2.4-billion scheme. In 2015, it partnered local businessman Antonio Cojuangco. Under Philippine laws, a foreign casino investor can only operate in the country if working with a local partner. Davao [ dah-vou,jupiters gold coast dah-vou ]/ dva, d va / New Word List Save This Word! [ dah-vou,dah-vou ]/ dva, d va /Save This Word! nouna seaport on SE Mindanao, in the S Philippines. Words nearby Davao How to use Davao Davao/ (davao) / nouna port in the S Philippines, in SE Mindanao. Pop: 1 326 000 (2005 est) Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Questiondauphiness, daur, daut, dautie, D.A.V., Davao, Davao Gulf, Dave, daven, D'Avenant, davenportDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 He becomes increasingly paranoid by the societal fixtures around hima ticking clock, a ringing phone. They thrive on packed schedules, they say, and take pleasure in working around the clock. The wine cellarone of the best in the worldsurvived World War II and is guarded around the clock. France 24 is providing live, round-the-clock coverage of both scenes as they progress. Bill Haley had kicked rock off with Rock Around the Clock, but Elvis Presley made it an international phenomenon. How Rock and Roll Killed Jim Crow|Dennis McNally|October 26, 2014|DAILY BEAST The night wore on, and the clock downstairs was striking the hour of two when she suddenly awakened. The Homesteader|Oscar Micheaux The clock struck ten, and clerks poured in faster than ever, each one in a greater perspiration than his predecessor. The Posthumous Papers of the Pickwick Club, v. 2(of 2)|Charles Dickens As it came near, it proved to be the clock, with a sail hoisted, and the Goblin sitting complacently in the stern. Davy and The Goblin|Charles E. Carryl A clock was put above the spot where the fountain stood, in April, 1852, which cost 60. Showell's Dictionary of Birmingham|Thomas T. Harman and Walter Showell shiba inu in coinbaseshows grade level based on the word's complexity. abjective [ ab-jek-tiv ]/ bdk tv / New Word List Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.[ ab-jek-tiv ]/ bdk tv /Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. adjectivetending to degrade, humiliate, or demoralize: the abjective influences of his early life. OTHER WORDS FROM abjective Words nearby abjective QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Question abjectiveFirst recorded in 186570; abject + -iveunabjective, adjectiveAbishag, a bit, Abitibi, abject, abjection, abjective, abjunction, abjuration, abjure, Abkhaz, AbkhaziaDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 Taxes make us feel sick to our stomach, says Tim Pychyl, professor of psychology at Carleton University in Ottawa. According to his suit, Carleton would rotate four new boys into his home every semester. Close behind her is Carleton, whose course correction is less about shooting better than shooting more often. Jetta Carleton published one book in her life The Moonflower Vine in 1963and when she died in 1999, it was mostly forgotten. The Daily Beast Recommends|The Daily Beast|March 31, 2009|DAILY BEAST The only good road southward was the liquid one made by nature, and this road Carleton decided to take. Stories of Our Naval Heroes|Various Arnold had about as many guns as Carleton, but they were smaller, and he had not nearly so many men to handle them. Stories of Our Naval Heroes|Various "A hearty laugh helpeth digestion," said Dr. Carleton, setting back in his chair. Alone|Marion Harland Tell them you know of a party that will give them fifteen hundred dollars for the boat, said Mr. Carleton. The Rival Campers Afloat|Ruel Perley Smith Average is a term that is used, mis-used and often overused. Typically, many individuals refer to average when they really mean the arithmetic average (mean). Average can mean the mean, the median, and the mode, it can refer to a geometric mean and weighted averages. Although most people use the term average for this type of calculation: Four tests results: 15, 18, 22, 20 The sum is: 75 Divide 75 by 4: 18.75 The 'Mean' (Average) is 18.75 (Often rounded to 19) The truth of the matter is that the above calculation is considered the arithmetic mean, or often referred to as the mean average. Top leader of the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK) Kim Jong Un on Saturday guided a rocket firing drill of the Strategic Force of the Korean Peoples Army (KPA),nhl draft odds 2020 gold win slot one day ahead of the 61st anniversary of the signing of the Korean War Armistice Agreement, the official KCNA news agency reported. Kim examined the test-fire plan which mapped out the location of the U.S. military bases in South Korea before the exercise started. The drill, which simulated battles to strike those U.S. forces in South Korea, proved the high combat capability of the fire strike unit and the perfect performance of the tactical rocket, said the KCNA dispatch. Kim expressed great satisfaction with the drill and said the U. S. harsh hostile policy toward the DPRK has not changed at all since the 1950s. Whoever dares challenge the just cause of the service personnel and people of the DPRK is bound to meet a final ruin, he stressed, calling for wiping out U.S. forces in South Korea and their followers at an early date and realizing national reunification. It was the DPRKs 6th launch of ballistic missiles and 15th firing of missiles or artillery shells this year, according to South Korean local media. The KCNA reported on July 10 that the DPRK had conducted a tactical rocket firing drill of the strategic force of the KPA, and its top leader Kim Jong Un gave field guidance on the drill. The Korean War came to a ceasefire on July 27, 1953, when the Armistice Agreement was signed in Panmunjom on the border of the DPRK and South Korea. But the war is not officially over because no peace treaty has ever been signed. DPRK top leader Kim Jong Un guides rocket firing drilladded by chinatimesonline on View all posts by chinatimesonline Director Tom Lin () yesterday took his latest movie, Starry Starry Night , a co-production between the Mainlands Huayi Brothers and Taiwans Atom Cinema, to the 16th Busan International Film Festival, which runs from October 6 to 14 in South Korea. The director was accompanied to the event by two of the movies lead actors, Xu Jiao and Lin Huimin. It has been three years since a Tom Lin movie has competed at Busan, with the last one being Winds of September, which was nominated as part of A Window on Asian Cinema section at the 13th Busan International Film Festival. Lin is very confident about his movies chances of success this time round. He told media, I always expect to win an award at Busan. Starry Starry Night is an outstanding production, and has been filmed to the highest standards. At a dinner party hosted by the president of Huayi Brothers, Wang Zhonglei, Lin and the prestigious Japanese director Shunji Iwai were introduced to one another after the press conference. The two directors praised one anothers work, acknowledging a similar style of filming. Some reports have indicated that Huayi Brothers has a new movie project in line for these two directors, but such reports are yet to be confirmed. Chen Nan Chinese Films Tom Lin Confident about Starry Starry Night in Busanadded by chinatimesonline on View all posts by chinatimesonline Sic bo Dragonsshows grade level based on the word's complexity. debauch [ dih-bawch ]/ dbt / New Word List Save This Word!See synonyms for: debauch / debauched on Thesaurus.comThis shows grade level based on the word's complexity. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.[ dih-bawch ]/ dbt /Save This Word!See synonyms for: debauch / debauched on Thesaurus.comThis shows grade level based on the word's complexity. verb (used with object)to corrupt by sensuality, intemperance, etc.; seduce.to corrupt or pervert; sully: His honesty was debauched by the prospect of easy money.Archaic. to lead away, as from allegiance or duty. verb (used without object)to indulge in debauchery. nouna period of wanton or sensual self-indulgence.an uninhibited spree or party; orgy: a wild debauch. OTHER WORDS FROM debauch WORDS THAT MAY BE CONFUSED WITH debauch Words nearby debauch Words related to debauch C16: from Old French desbaucher to corrupt, literally: to shape (timber) roughly, from bauch beam, of Germanic origin QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Question debauchFirst recorded in 158595; from French debaucher to entice away from duty, debauch, Old French desbauchier to disperse, scatter, equivalent to des-dis-+ -bauchier, derivative of bauc, bauch beam (from Germanic; see balcony, balk; compare French ebaucher to rough-hew); hence, presumably, to hew (beams), becoming to split, separate, becoming to separate from work or dutydebaucher, noundebauchment, noundebauch , debouchdebased, debasement, debaser, debatable, debate, debauch, debauched, debauchee, debaucherous, debauchery, DebbieDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 A view of the Taipei city, Taiwan island Photo: Unsplash Chinese mainland officials and experts blasted Taiwan's secessionist Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities for twisting the nature of cross-Straits relations, hyping "mainland threat" and colluding with external forces to seek secession,whichthey believed is daydreaming and will be doomed to fail, in response to a provocative so-called "Double Ten" speech made by Taiwan regional leader Tsai Ing-wen on Monday.The "Double Ten Day" on October 10, a public holiday in the island of Taiwan originally meant to commemorate the 1911 Revolution, which began on October 10, 1911, has been seen by observers as yet another farce staged by the secessionist Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and its leader Tsai that serves to promote their desinicization agenda and daydream of a "two-state theory."In Monday's speech, Tsai stressed determination in self-defense, and also claimed "armed confrontation is absolutely not an option for our two sides." However, when it comes to actual military hardware, Tsai said the island is increasing mass production of precision missiles and high-performance naval vessels, and working to acquire small, highly mobile weapons that will ensure Taiwan is fully prepared to respond to "external military threats."The root cause of the current tension in the Taiwan Straits lies in the fact that the DPP authorities stubbornly adhere to the secessionists' position and collude with external forces to continuously seek independence, which seriously undermines the important foundation of the peaceful development of cross-Straits relations, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a press briefing Monday."Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory We are willing to create broad space for peaceful reunification, but we will never leave any room for Taiwan secessionist activities," Mao said.Ma Xiaoguang, spokesperson of the Taiwan Affairs Office under the State Council, said that Tsai's speech continues to promote the "two-state theory," play up the "threat" from the mainland, shirk responsibility for sabotaging cross-Straits relations and reinforce the seeking of secession by armed forces and by relying on external forces.The DPP authorities are fabricating a false narrative of "democracy and freedom," which cannot cover up their actions and nature of splitting the country and breaching the fact that both sides of the Taiwan Straits belong to one China, Ma said.Wang Yingjin, director of the Center for Cross-Straits Relations Studies at the Renmin University of China, told the Global Times on Monday that compared to Tsai's "Double Ten" speech in 2021, which directly mentioned dangerous secessionism ideas such as "the two sides of the Straits do not belong to each other," Tsai did not use new provocative language against the mainland, but her pro-secession line remains unchanged.Despite Tsai expressing willingness to have a "rational and equal" dialogue with the mainland to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Straits in her latest speech, mainland analysts noticed the trick used by the DPP authorities of publicly using the secessionist term "Taiwan national day" written in English to mark the "Double Ten Day."A few days before Tsai's speech, Taiwan's former regional leader Ma Ying-jeou called on Tsai not to use "Taiwan National Day" to irritate the mainland, as using such moves to "smuggle Taiwan independence" would do nothing to benefit people in Taiwan, cross-Straits relations or Taiwan's security and prosperity, and will only let secessionists "cheer themselves."By denying the 1992 Consensus, the DPP authorities single-handedly closed the door to equal dialogue between the two sides of the Taiwan Straits and attempted to impose the "two-state theory" on the cross-Straits dialogue. This shows that they have no sincerity at all in easing the current tension and resolving differences through dialogue, analysts said.Wang said the "kindness and generosity" expressed by Tsai on dialogue is different from the idea advocated by the Chinese mainland in that the two sides of the Taiwan Straits should jointly resolve political differences through exchanges and development, while Tsai's focus is resolving the risk of cross-Straits conflict while the DPP seeks secession, as opposed to moving toward peaceful reunification on the basis of peaceful development on both sides.The Chinese mainland does not want see a military conflict across the Straits, and the Taiwan people possibly even less so, Wang said.A poll released Saturday conducted by an education foundation shows that 69.9 percent of respondents in Taiwan agreed that "understanding Taiwan's situation" should be strengthened in education, but only 41.4 percent gave a definite "yes" to the determination to sacrifice themselves to defend the island, according to Taiwan-based media.Tsai's anti-mainland approach is becoming unpopular in Taiwan, especially after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's provocative Taiwan visit which later triggered the mainland's largest-ever military exercises encircling Taiwan, and dissatisfaction with Tsai's provocation has risen. As a result, Tsai's latest speech was a bit more subdued than last time, Zhang Wensheng, a deputy dean of the Taiwan Research Institute at Xiamen University, told the Global Times on Monday."People in Taiwan want peace. They know that if Taiwan continues down Tsai's wrong path, there will be military conflict sooner or later across the Straits," Zhang said.Hsieh Lung-chieh, a Taiwan-based politician from the opposition party Kuomintang (KMT), said in a Facebook post on Monday that cross-Straits relations are facing turmoil and the vast majority of people in Taiwan have never been so close to war in their lives."Much foreign interference is not a blessing for Taiwan," Hsieh said. Not so lucky are the editors and writers at The New Republic. To the Republic of Korea and United States military personnel stationed in the JSA, it is known as Propaganda Village. The Second Republic was also considered the another golden age for Korean Cinema. An examination of the complicated history of America and its movies in the Republic of Korea. A hard look at campus rape statistics, the collapse of The New Republic and the day John Lennon died. The Daily Beasts Best Longreads, Dec 8-14, 2014|William Boot|December 13, 2014|DAILY BEAST Gallinas, the noted slave factory on the west of Africa, purchased by the Liberian republic. The Every Day Book of History and Chronology|Joel Munsell Enchanted with the golden period of the Grecian republic, I passed over the storms by which it had been agitated. Madame Roland, Makers of History|John S. C. Abbott Recognition of the Philippine Republic as soon as the difficulties with America should be overcome. The Philippine Islands|John Foreman Recognition of a Philippine Republic would have been in direct opposition to the spirit of the treaty of peace. The Philippine Islands|John Foreman If you eat meat, you have probably had delicious slow-cooked pork drenched in tangy, spicy sauce. This wonderful invention is called barbecue, and it descends from the traditional food ways of several cultures that found their way to the American South. In his book Cooked: A Natural History of Transformation, Michael Pollan visits the South to learn about barbecue and to try his hand at the process. Most barbecue aficionados are traditionalists, insisting that proper barbecue requires strict adherence to a uniform set of procedures and ingredients. But what about the word itself? How do you spell barbecue? Must writers adhere to barbecue, or could we use barbequeor another version of the word, instead? What is the Difference Between Barbecue and Barbeque? In this article, I will compare barbecue vs. barbeque. I will use each of these words in at least one example sentence, so you can see them in context. Plus, I will show you a useful mnemonic device that you can use to help yourself remember whether barbecue or barbeque is correct. When to Use Barbecue What does barbecue mean? Barbecue can be a noun or a verb. As a noun, barbecuemeans a particular method of cooking, whereby one suspends meat over burning coals on a wooden framework. The word can also refer to a gathering around food cooked this way. Barbecue is derived from the Spanish barbacoa, a word for the wooden structure itself. Here are a few examples, Theres a barbecue at Craigs house this weekend; do you want to go? In the American South, there are many regional variations on barbecue. The FDA tried to regulate southern barbecue, but it largely failed. Melissa Cookston recalls the smell of barbecue mingling with her grandfathers morning coffee as she sat and talked with him at his favorite lunch spot in the Mississippi Delta. The Wall Street Journal As a verb, barbecue means to cook according to this method. Check out the example below, Im going to barbecue a pig tomorrow, said Jenn. I could use your help. When to Use Barbeque What does barbeque mean? Barbeque is a variant of the same word. It is not used as frequently as barbecue. Other variations include bar-b-cue, bar-b-que, and BBQ. Below is a graph that charts the use of barbeque vs. barbecuesince 1800. As you can see, barbecue is by far the most widely used variant of this word. In his book Garners Modern English Usage, Bryan Garner estimates barbecue is used three times more frequently than all other forms of the word combined. Other variations, like bar-b-cue and BBQ, are common to see in advertising or the names of restaurants, but they are comparatively rare in edited prose. I stopped for a decent plate of pulled pork ($9.99) at the BBQ Pit on University Avenue before continuing on to ChuckAlek Biergarten, a spot in North Park with a great outdoor area. The New York Times As you can see in this New York Timesexample, BBQis in the name of the restaurant. In this sense, it is acting as a proper noun. Spelling of Barbecue: Trick to Remember the Difference Barbecue is the only standard version of this word, probably because it is closest to the original Spanish barbacoa. It is also the most widely-used variant among English writers. Since barbecue and barbacoa each contain the letter C, you can use the spelling similarity as a reminder that barbecue is the correct spelling of this word. Summary Is it barbecue or barbeque? Barbecue, barbeque, bar-b-cue, bar-b-que, and BBQ are all Anglicized variants of the Spanish word barbacoa. As nouns and verbs, they refer to a process of slow-cooking pork or other meats. Barbecue is the standard spelling in English. Barbecueoccurs at a rate many times that of its variants. Since it is closest to the spelling of the original Spanish, you should have little trouble remember that it is standard. If you have trouble choosing barbeque or barbecue, think of the C in barbecue as standing for correct. What Is Return on Average Assets (ROAA)?derby betting app strip poker game Return on average assets (ROAA) is an indicator used to assess the profitability of a firm's assets, and it is most often used by banks and other financial institutions as a means to gauge financial performance. Sometimes, ROAA is used interchangeably with return on assets (ROA) although the latter often uses current assets instead of average assets. Key Takeaways Return on average assets (ROAA) shows how well a company uses its assets to generate profits and works best when comparing to similar companies in the same industry. ROAA formula uses average assets to capture any significant changes in asset balances over the period being analyzed. Companies that invest heavily upfront into equipment and other assets typically have a lower ROAA. Return On Assets (ROA) Understanding Return on Average Assets (ROAA) 1:48 Return on average assets (ROAA) shows how efficiently a company is utilizing its assets and is also useful when assessing peer companies in the same industry. Unlike return on equity, which measures the return on invested and retained dollars, ROAA measures the return on the assets purchased using those dollars. The ROAA result varies greatly depending on the type of industry, and companies that invest a large amount of money up front into equipment and other assets will have a lower ROAA. A ratio result of 5% or better is generally considered good. The ratio shows how well a firm's assets are being used to generate profits. ROAA is calculated by taking net income and dividing it by average total assets. The final ratio is expressed as a percentage of total average assets. The formula is: R O A A = Net Income Average Total Assets where: Net Income = Net income for the same period as assets Average Assets = ( Beginning + Ending Assets ) / 2 \begin{ aligned} &ROAA=\frac{ \text{ Net Income}}{ \text{ Average Total Assets}}\\ &\textbf{ where:}\\ &\text{ Net Income} = \text{ Net income for the same period as assets}\\ &\text{ Average Assets} = (\text{ Beginning} + \text{ Ending Assets}) / 2 \end{ aligned} ROAA=Average Total AssetsNet Incomewhere:Net Income=Net income for the same period as assetsAverage Assets=(Beginning+Ending Assets)/2 Net income is found on the income statement, which provides an overview of a company's performance during a given time period. Analysts can look to the balance sheet to find assets. Unlike the income statement, which shows growing balances through the year, the balance sheet is only a snapshot in time. It does not provide an overview of changes made over a certain time period, but at the end of the time period. To arrive at a more accurate measure of return on assets, analysts like to take the average of the asset balances from the beginning and end of the same period that was used to define net income. Analysts often use average assets because it takes into consideration balance fluctuations throughout the year and provides a more accurate measure of asset efficiency over a given time period. ROAA Example Assume that Company A has $1,000 in net income at the end of Year 2. An analyst will take the asset balance from the firm's balance sheet at the end of Year 1, and average it with the assets at the end of Year 2 for the ROAA calculation. The firm's assets at the end of Year 1 are $5,000, and they increase to $15,000 by the end of Year 2. The average assets between Year 1 and Year 2 is ($5,000+$15,000)/2 = $10,000. The ROAA is then calculated by taking the company's $1,000 net income and dividing it by $10,000 to arrive at the answer of 10%. If the return on assets is calculated using assets from only the end of Year 1, the return is 20%, because the company is making more income on fewer assets. However, if the analyst calculates return on assets using only the assets measured at the end of Year 2, the answer is 6%, because the company is making less income with more assets. How does ROAA differ from ROA? If return on assets (ROA) uses average assets, then ROA and ROAA will be identical. If, however, an analyst uses only beginning or ending assets (as opposed to the average), then ROAA will provide a more accurate picture since average assets will smooth out changes or volatility in assets over an accounting period. What are average assets? A company's balance sheet will often report the average level or value of assets held over an accounting period, such as a quarter or fiscal year. It is often calculated as beginning assets less ending assets divided by two. This is done because on any given day, a firm's actual level of assets will fluctuate in the course of doing business. The average, therefore, provides a better metric. How does ROAA differ return on total assets (ROTA)? ROAA is similar to ROTA, however ROAA uses net income in the numerator, whereas ROTA uses EBIT (earnings before income and taxes) in the numerator. Both use average total assets in the denominator. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) on Wednesday stubbed a proposal by Mount Airy Casino Resort to build and operate a Category 4 mini-casino in Beaver County. The regulators chairman, David Barasch, said after PGCBs meeting on Wednesday that they have decided to reject Mount Airys application because the casino was unable to secure the necessary financing to materialize its project for the development of a satellite gaming facility in Big Beaver, Beaver County. The plan was unanimously rejected by PGCB members. The regulator is set to collect $5.3 millionfrom Mount Airy for the time it had spent on reviewing the Category 4 casino proposal. In February 2018, Mount Airy placed a $21,188,888.88bid to claim a Category 4 license from the Gaming Control Board. The company unveiled its plan for a Beaver County mini-casino in August 2018. The plan included the construction of a gaming complex near Interstate 376 in Big Beaver. The casino would have featured 750 slot machines and 30 table games as well as three dining outlets. Mount Airy officials had an agreement in place to purchase land to develop the property, which would have spread over 100 acres. They submitted the application for the mini-casino with the PGCB in mid-October 2018. Mount Airy Blames Failure on Increased Regional Competition Mount Airy did not hide their disappointment with the turn of the events. Todd Greenberg, Chief Operating Officer of the casinos parent company and General Manager of the Monroe County resort, said Wednesday they are very disappointed that they will not be moving forward with our proposed Category 4 casino in Beaver County. The official also noted that their failure to raise money to fund the project stemmed from external factors such as increased competitionfrom new casinos and nearby destination resorts, which had a larger impact on their revenue that what they originally anticipated. Beaver County officials were also disappointed by the projects failure. Daniel Camp, Chairman of the countys Board of Commissioners, said that its disappointing that representatives from Mount Airy held up prime property in Big Beaver borough that could have been developed into different uses for so long. Mount Airy is poised to receive a bit of a revenue boost through its entry into Pennsylvanias sports betting mix. In early September, the propertys sports betting partner, The Stars Group, launched the FOX Bet app. The roll-out of the digital betting product was followed by the opening of a physical sportsbook at Mount Airys casino floor. The wagering facility occupies 7,000 square feet and is located inside the former Gypsies Lounge and right next to a PokerStars-branded, 12-table poker room. According to information from the PGCB, Mount Airy and its sports betting partner handled $15.3 million in bets and generated nearly $1 million in revenueduring the first two months of operation. The propertys retail sportsbook handled $1 million in wagers on various sports and generated revenue of $132,458. The FOX Bet app and website took $14.3 million in bets and $860,153 in revenue. Source:Mount Airys mini-casino proposal near Ohio border denied by Pa. Gaming Control Board, The Morning Call Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date on the days top casino news stories Most people have both a job and a hobby. An attorney might enjoy gambling online, for example, or an auto mechanic might enjoy getting drunk and playing golf for charity. Both online gambling and drunken golfing are more accurately described as hobbies than careers, even though in these scenarios, both might potentially raise money. There is a similar difference between the words avocation and vocation. One represents a primary career, while the other denotes a hobby. What is the Difference Between Vocation and Avocation? In this post, I will compare vocation vs. avocation. I will use each of these words in at least one example sentence, so you can see how they appear in context. Plus, I will show you a memory tool that makes choosing either vocation or avocation much easier for your own writing. When to Use Avocation What does avocation mean? Avocation is a noun. An avocation is a hobby or minor occupation. Many people enjoy cooking, but most people do not cook professionally, so for them, cooking is an avocation. Similarly, many people garden, but most are not professional gardeners, so for those people, gardening is an avocation. Here are few sentence examples, On her online dating profile, under hobbies or other interests, Esmerelda listed smashing the patriarchy as an avocation. One of the most effective ways to avoid becoming burned out at work is to develop an enjoyable avocation that helps you deal with stress. When to Use Vocation What does vocation mean? Vocation, meanwhile, refers to a primary occupation or job. Professional welders weld as part of their vocation. Machinists work in machine shops as their vocation. Sentence examples: When he was in 12th grade, Jeremy took a career self-assessment test, and the results indicated that he would be well-suited for a job as a go-kart mechanic or a bookbinder. Many Americans spend time looking for a vocation they will enjoy, while many others spend time avoiding a job they do not enjoy. Both vocation and avocation derive from Latin terms that are no longer in use. Both have been part of English for several centuries. Vocation means primary job, but to say vocation instead of job implies passion for the work itself, for more abstract reasons than monetary gain or social standing. A person who spends his or her entire life working to save endangered species might do so out of passion, rather than a desire for a stable, easy career. Trick to Remember the Difference Given their spellings, one might think that these words are opposites of each other, but that is not quite the case. A vocation is a job that one often pursues out of passion. An avocation is a secondary job that someone pursues for pleasure. Avocation vs. Vocation Check: Since avocation starts with A, like amuse, it should be simple to remember that an avocation is a hobby pursued for enjoyment or amusement. Summary Is it avocation or vocation? The terms are not interchangeable, so you will have to remember which is which. free spin casino 0 no deposit bonus codes 2021 july 2019shows grade level based on the word's complexity. darcy [ dahr-see ]/ dr si / New Word List Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.[ dahr-see ]/ dr si /Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. noun, plural darcies.Physics. a unit of permeability, representing the flow, at 1 atmosphere, of 1 cubic centimeter of fluid with 1 centipoise viscosity in 1 second through a 1-square-centimeter cross section of porous medium 1 centimeter long. Darcy[ dahr-see ]/ dr si / nouna male given name. How to use darcy (2 of 2) Darcy/ (ds) / noun(James) Les (lie). 18951917, Australian boxer and folk hero, who lost only five professional fights and was never knocked out, considered a martyr after his death from septicaemia during a tour of the United States Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 Scientific definitions for darcy (2 of 2) Darcy, Henry Philibert Gaspard 1803-1858 French engineer who formulated the law (now named for him) governing the rate at which a fluid flows through a permeable medium. The darcy unit, used to measure the permeability of porous substances, is also named after him. The American Heritage Science Dictionary Copyright 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved. QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Question darcy (2 of 2)Dictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 Theroyal panda free bet hnt cryptore is an old, deeply rooted story about America that goes something like this: Columbus stumbles upon a strange continent and brings back stories of untold riches. The European empires rush over, eager to stake out as much of this astonishing New World as possible. Even as they clash, they ignite an era of colonial expansion that lasts roughly four centuries, from the conquest of Hispaniola in 1492 to the Wounded Knee Massacre in 1890. Between those two moments, European empires and the nascent American empire amass souls, slaves, and territory, dispossessing and destroying hundreds of Indigenous societies. The Indians fight back but cannot stop the onslaught. Resourceful and defiant though they might be, they are no match for the newcomers and their raw ambition, superior technology, and lethal microbes that penetrate Native bodies with shocking ease. Indians are doomed; Europeans are destined to take over the continent; history moved irreversibly toward Indigenous destruction. But there is another story we can tell, challenging the notion that colonial expansion was inevitable, and that colonialism defined the continent, as well as the experiences of those living on it. Rather than a colonial America, we should speak of an IndigenousAmerica that was only slowly and unevenly becoming colonial. By 1776, various European colonial powers together claimednearly all of the continent for themselves, but Indigenous peoples and powers controlled it. The maps in modern textbooks that paint much of early North America with neat, color-coded blocks confuse outlandish imperial claims for actual holdings. More from TIME From the beginning of colonialism in North America to the Lakotas final military triumphs, a multitude of Native nations fought fiercely to keep their territories intact and their cultures untainted, frustrating the imperial pretensions of France, Spain, Britain, the Netherlands, and eventually the United States. When American history is detached from mainstream historical narratives that privilege European ambitions for power, European perspectives, and European sources, the record shows insteadtime and time again, and across centuriesthat Indians blocked and demolished colonial projects, relying on sophisticated political systems of kinship that allowed for flexible diplomacy and war-making, continuously reshaping borders on the continent and thwarting colonial ambitions. Both Red Clouds War and the Battle of Little Bighornin which the Lakota Indians and their Cheyenne and Arapaho allies defeated the U.S.have entered the history books as flukes, blamed on poor leadership and on a canny enemy familiar with the terrain. Seen from the Native American perspective, however, Red Clouds War and Custers Last Stand appear not as historical anomalies, but as the logical culmination of a long history of Indigenous power in North America. They were more expected than extraordinary. There are many examples of similar inversions that occurred with other notable battles: the Pequot and Raritan massacres of 1637 and 1644, respectively, seemed to mark the sweeping collapse of Indigenous power in the Northeast. In truth, the massacres exposed a deep-rooted European anxiety over enduring Indigenous power: the attacks were so vicious because the colonists feared the Indians who refused to submit to their rule. The wars with the far more numerous and larger Native nations stretched the colonists near their breaking point. At midcentury, colonial settlements in North America consisted of some two dozen seaside towns and a handful of forts of little consequence on the coastal plains; curbed by Indigenous power, the English colonists had spread up and down along the Atlantic coast, latching onto its sheltering estuaries and managing only fleeting inroads into the continents interior. The Appalachians and the lands west of them remained largely unknown to white people. The violent clashes between Native Americans and colonists during the late 1670s, which came to be known as Metacoms War, or King Philips War to the English, were a shocking calamity to the colonists, even in apparent victory. New England had lost six hundred soldiers, roughly ten percent of its strength, and at least a thousand colonists had died. The colony suffered the loss of a staggering 150,000 in property at a time when 100 was a very comfortable yearly salary. More than a thousand colonial homes had been burned, and some two dozen towns had been either destroyed or severely damaged. The English would not reoccupy their prewar borders until 1700. Read More: You Cant Tell the Story of 1776 Without Talking About Race At the end of the seventeenth century, nearly simultaneous Indigenous rebellions against European imperial ambitions in all regions of North America almost thwarted English, French, and Spanish colonists. Although suffering defeats, Native Americans had rolled colonialism back in different corners of the continent, forcing colonists to retreat, recalibrate their ambitions, and reconsider their ingrained ideas about Native peoples. What made the Indigenous resistance so effective throughout the 18th and well into the 19th century were their systems of kinship and diplomacy which allowed them to recruit soldiers from several nations and forge strategic alliances that played colonial powers off of one another. When the Indian wars finally came to an end in 1877, the United States was both imperious and exhausted. Since its founding in 1776, there had been more than sixteen hundred official military engagements with Native Americans. Moreover, while fighting Indians, the U.S. had descended into a draining and demoralizing Civil War that had claimed as many as 750,000 American lives. When peace finally came, the U.S. committed to completing not one but two reconstructions, of the American South and of the Indigenous West. Compared to the reconstruction of the American South, which involved conciliatory elements, the Indigenous reconstruction was, on the whole, harsh and vindictive, featuring more civilization programs, boarding schools designed to kill the Indian to save the man, and land policies that labeled Indigenous territories surplus land. The four-hundred-year struggle to keep the continent Indigenous had stretched colonists from the European powers, and then the U.S., to the breaking point again and again. The enormous range of Native nations and the sheer depth and multiplicity of their resistance had frustrated the colonists, if it did not kill them. Some nations relied on naked force and numbers to corral and punish colonial powers, while others sought alliances with them. Some forged ties to other Native nations and reinvented themselves as confederacies, such as the Six Nations of the Iroquois Confederacy, who were the dominant imperial power in the heart of North America for generations, and in the early nineteenth century the Comanches and Lakotas built empires of their own, in part to survive colonialism. Instead of fighting these Indigenous powers, the colonists placated them. They desperately wanted to be allies and not enemies. They sided with power. Members of the Red Cloud delegation, left to right: Red Dog, Little Wound, John Bridgeman (interpreter), Red Cloud, American Horse, and Red Shirt. Oglala Sioux Photograph before 1876. Bettmann Archive Smaller nations relied on more nuanced and delicate tactics. Rather than confronting colonial powers directly in battle, they evaded them by making themselves small and inconspicuous, using the striking environmental variety of North America. The Catawbas, Shoshones, Utes, Nez Perces, Blackfoot, Seminoles, and others found refuge in deserts, mountains, and swamps, evading the settler empires that struggled with difficult and strange terrain, while the Shawnees, the greatest travellers in America, countered colonial displacement with a highly organized Indigenous diaspora. In the lower Mississippi Valley, the petites nations made themselves into forceful regional powers through strategic mobility, calculated violence, and expedient alliances, keeping just ahead of the imperial gaze of the surrounding colonial empires. Indigenous power in North America reached its apogee in the mid- to late nineteenth century, which, at first glance, appears counterintuitive. This was the period when the country emerged onto the world stage with its monstrous contiguous economic territories, inspiring awe and fear in Germany and fueling an impression as the greatest menace in Italy. Subduing independent Native nations and erasing their sovereignty seemed to the imperial U.S. a straightforward problem of plying its overwhelming military might and technological advances, including railroads. But the Indigenous nations, too, reinvented themselves, in part as a response to the rising American empire. The powerful Comanches reduced much of the Mexican Republic to an extractive hinterland, enabling them to reign over an oversized section of the hemisphere. The Lakotas, relying on their equestrian mobility, their broad alliance network, and their generations-long experience of blocking colonial ambitions, emerged as the leading guardians of the Indigenous continent. Over a period of seven decades, they foiled U.S. expansion again and again, protecting in the process scores of smaller and more vulnerable nations. Looking east from the North American West, the history of North America emerges as a single story of resolute resistance that kept much of the continent Indigenous for generations. Set against the deep history of the Indigenous continent, American history looks fundamentally different. So does the American present. Today, sovereign Indigenous America persists in the dynamism of modern Native communities, in the endurance of traditional ways of life, and in the continuation and evolution of the primary Indian response to colonialism: resistance. Adapted from Pekka Hamalainens Indigenous Continent: The Epic Contest for North America, published by Liveright/Norton What Is Return on Sales (ROS)?keno las vegas Return on sales (ROS) is a ratio used to evaluate a company's operational efficiency. This measure provides insight into how much profit is being produced per dollar of sales. An increasing ROS indicates that a company is improving efficiency, while a decreasing ROS could signal impending financial troubles. ROS is closely related to a firm's operating profit margin. Key Takeaways Return on sales (ROS) is a measure of how efficiently a company turns sales into profits. ROS is calculated by dividing operating profit by net sales. ROS is only useful when comparing companies in the same line of business and of roughly the same size. Return on Sales Formula and Calculation of Return on Sales (ROS) 1:40 Locate net sales and operating profit from a company's income statement and plug the figures into the formula below: ROS = Operating Profit Net Sales where: ROS = Return on sales Operating Profit is calculated as earnings before interest, or EBIT. \begin{ aligned}&\text{ ROS} = \frac{ \text{ Operating Profit}}{ \text{ Net Sales}}\\&\textbf{ where:}\\&\text{ ROS}=\text{ Return on sales}\\&\text{ Operating Profit is calculated as earnings}\\&\text{ before interest, or EBIT.}\end{ aligned} ROS=Net SalesOperating Profitwhere:ROS=Return on salesOperating Profit is calculated as earningsbefore interest, or EBIT. What Return on Sales Can Tell You When calculating return on sales, investors might notice that some companies report net sales while others report revenue. Net sales is total revenue minus the credits or refunds paid to customers for merchandise returns. Net sales will likely be listed for companies in the retail industry, while others will list revenue. Below are the steps to calculate return on sales: Locate net sales on the income statement, but it can also be listed as revenue. Locate operating profit on the income statement. Be sure not to include non-operating activities and expenses, such as taxes and interest expenses. Divide operating profit by net sales. Return on sales is a financial ratio that calculates how efficiently a company is generating profits from its top-line revenue. It measures the performance of a company by analyzing the percentage of total revenue that is converted into operating profits. The calculation shows how effectively a company is producing its core products and services and how its management runs the business. Therefore, ROS is used as an indicator of both efficiency and profitability. Investors, creditors, and other debt holders rely on this efficiency ratio because it accurately communicates the percentage of operating cash a company makes on its revenue and provides insight into potential dividends, reinvestment potential, and the company's ability to repay debt. ROS is used to compare current period calculations with calculations from previous periods. This allows a company to conduct trend analyses and compare internal efficiency performance over time. It is also useful to compare one company's ROS percentage with that of a competing company, regardless of scale. The comparison makes it easier to assess the performance of a small company than a Fortune 500 company. However, ROS should only be used to compare companies within the same industry as they vary greatly across industries. A grocery chain, for example, has lower margins and therefore a lower ROS compared to a technology company. Return on sales and operating profit margin are often used to describe a similar financial ratio. The main difference between each usage lies in the way their respective formulas are derived. The standard way of writing the formula for operating margin is operating income divided by net sales. Return on sales is extremely similar except the numerator is usually written as earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) while the denominator is still net sales. Example of How to Use Return on Sales For example, a company that generates $100,000 in sales and requires $90,000 in total costs to generate its revenue is less efficient than a company that generates $50,000 in sales but only requires $30,000 in total costs. ROS is larger if a company's management successfully cuts costs while increasing revenue. Using the same example, the company with $50,000 in sales and $30,000 in costs has an operating profit of $20,000 and a ROS of 40% ($20,000 / $50,000). If the company's management team wants to increase efficiency, it can focus on increasing sales while incrementally increasing expenses, or it can focus on decreasing expenses while maintaining or increasing revenue. Limitations of Using Return on Sales Return on sales should only be used to compare companies that operate in the same industry, and ideally among those that have similar business models and annual sales figures. Companies in different industries with wildly different business models have very different operating margins, so comparing them using EBIT in the numerator could be confusing. To make it easier to compare sales efficiency between different companies and different industries, many analysts use a profitability ratio that eliminates the effects of financing, accounting, and tax policies: earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA). For example, by adding back depreciation, the operating margins of big manufacturing firms and heavy industrial companies are more comparable. EBITDA is sometimes used as a proxy for operating cash flow, because it excludes non-cash expenses, such as depreciation. But EBITDA does not equal cash flow. Thats because it does not adjust for any increase in working capital or account for capital expenditures that are needed to support production and maintain a companys asset baseas operating cash flow does. What Can Return on Sales Tell You? Return on sales is a financial ratio that calculates how efficiently a company is generating profits from its top-line revenue. It measures the performance of a company by analyzing the percentage of total revenue that is converted into operating profits. ROS is used as an indicator of both efficiency and profitability as it shows how effectively a company is producing its core products and services and how its management runs the business. What Is the Difference Between ROS and Operating Margin? Return on sales and operating profit margin are often used to describe a similar financial ratio. The main difference between each usage lies in the way their respective formulas are derived. The standard way of writing the formula for operating margin is operating income divided by net sales. Return on sales is extremely similar except the numerator is usually written as earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) while the denominator is still net sales. What Are the Limitations of Return on Sales? Return on sales should only be used to compare companies that operate in the same industry, and ideally among those that have similar business models and annual sales figures. A grocery chain, for example, has lower margins and therefore a lower ROS compared to a technology company. Companies in different industries with wildly different business models have very different operating margins, so comparing them using EBIT in the numerator could be confusing. Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tates new plan for a casino resort on the citys waterfront has met severe criticism from Southport MPs and other involved parties, local media reported. The Gold Coast Bulletin revealed late last week that the city Mayor had sent a letter to Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk with a proposal for the construction of an integrated resort on a portion of public land in central Southport, currently occupied by Queens Park Tennis Club, the Southport Bowls Club, the Helensvale Golf Club, and other facilities. If the plan is approved in the form presented by Mayor Tate, that would require the relocation of some of the above-mentioned properties, a move that involved parties blasted immediately after news about the project surfaced. The Queensland government rejected a A$3-billion integrated resort schemefor a site on the Southport Spit several weeks ago. The complex was to be built by Chinese-backed investors from ASF Consortium. The investor group was selected as the preferred candidate for a development of this kind in the Gold Coast region back in 2014. A previous proposal by ASF Consortium for a resort on the man-made Wavebreak Island was also dismissed by state officials. Under Mayor Tates recently pitched plan, a future casino complex could create multiple jobs, development and investment activity, and will boost the regions tourism significantly. Said plan calls for the development of a 6.7-hectare site. Southport MP Rob Molhoek has become one of the staunchest opponents of the project, arguing that the proposed site was crazyand that the use of public land was highly inappropriate. According to the politician, a resort of this kind should be located closer to the water, as it had been per ASF Consortiums previous plans. The wave of opposition and criticism was also joined by Mike Ford, President of Tennis Gold Coast. Mr. Ford told local media that the current location of Queens Park Tennis Club presented a healthy community imageand that its potential relocation to vacate room for a casino resort would harm that good image. The tennis official pointed out that he was not opposing progress and development but disapproved of the relocation of a facility that has provenly been doing good for more than eight decadesin favor of a facility that could eventually do harm. Mayor Tate sent his letter to Premier Palaszczuk on August 8. The states top official and her administration are yet to reveal officially whether the new proposal would be considered any further. The Gold Coast region currently hosts one casino resort The Star Gold Coast, located in Broadbeach and formerly known as Jupiters Gold Coast. The property is owned and operated by Australian casino operator The Star Entertainment Group. It is currently undergoing a nearly A$1-billion renovation and expansion, which will see it add a new hotel tower to its existing operations. Definition: It is believed that the statement of Pythagorean's Theorem was discovered on a Babylonian tablet circa 1900-1600 B.C. The Pythagorean Theorem relates to the three sides of a right triangle. It states that c2=a2+b2, C is the side that is opposite the right angle which is referred to as the hypoteneuse. a and b are the sides that are adjacent to the right angle. In essence, the theorem simply stated is: the sum of the areas of two small squares equals the area of the large one. You will find that the Pythagorean Theorem is used on any formula that will square a number. It's used to determine the shortest path when crossing through a park or recreation center or field. The theorem can be used by painters or construction workers, think about the angle of the ladder against a tall building for instance. There are many word problems in the classic math text books that require the use of the Pythagorean Theorem. What Is Multiple Linear Regression (MLR)?free 7s wild slots earn alt coins Multiple linear regression (MLR), also known simply as multiple regression, is a statistical technique that uses several explanatory variables to predict the outcome of a response variable. The goal of multiple linear regression is to model the linear relationship between the explanatory (independent) variables and response (dependent) variables. In essence, multiple regression is the extension of ordinary least-squares (OLS) regression because it involves more than one explanatory variable. Key Takeaways Multiple linear regression (MLR), also known simply as multiple regression, is a statistical technique that uses several explanatory variables to predict the outcome of a response variable. Multiple regression is an extension of linear (OLS) regression that uses just one explanatory variable. MLR is used extensively in econometrics and financial inference. Formula and Calculation of Multiple Linear Regression y i = 0 + 1 x i 1 + 2 x i 2 + . . . + p x i p + where, for i = n observations: y i = dependent variable x i = explanatory variables 0 = y-intercept (constant term) p = slope coefficients for each explanatory variable = the models error term (also known as the residuals) \begin{ aligned}&y_i = \beta_0 + \beta _1 x_{ i1} + \beta _2 x_{ i2} + ... + \beta _p x_{ ip} + \epsilon\\&\textbf{ where, for } i = n \textbf{ observations:}\\&y_i=\text{ dependent variable}\\&x_i=\text{ explanatory variables}\\&\beta_0=\text{ y-intercept (constant term)}\\&\beta_p=\text{ slope coefficients for each explanatory variable}\\&\epsilon=\text{ the model's error term (also known as the residuals)}\end{ aligned} yi=0+1xi1+2xi2+...+pxip+where, for i=n observations:yi=dependent variablexi=explanatory variables0=y-intercept (constant term)p=slope coefficients for each explanatory variable=the models error term (also known as the residuals) What Multiple Linear Regression Can Tell You Simple linear regression is a function that allows an analyst or statistician to make predictions about one variable based on the information that is known about another variable. Linear regression can only be used when one has two continuous variablesan independent variable and a dependent variable. The independent variable is the parameter that is used to calculate the dependent variable or outcome. A multiple regression model extends to several explanatory variables. The multiple regression model is based on the following assumptions: There is a linear relationship between the dependent variables and the independent variables The independent variables are not too highly correlated with each other y i observations are selected independently and randomly from the population observations are selected independently and randomly from the population Residuals should be normally distributed with a mean of 0 and variance The coefficient of determination (R-squared) is a statistical metric that is used to measure how much of the variation in outcome can be explained by the variation in the independent variables. R2always increases as more predictors are added to the MLR model, even though the predictors may not be related to the outcome variable. R2by itself can't thus be used to identify which predictors should be included in a model and which should be excluded. R2can only be between 0 and 1, where 0 indicates that the outcome cannot be predicted by any of the independent variables and 1 indicates that the outcome can be predicted without error from the independent variables. When interpreting the results of multiple regression, beta coefficients are valid while holding all other variables constant ("all else equal"). The output from a multiple regression can be displayed horizontally as an equation, or vertically in table form. Example of How to Use Multiple Linear Regression As an example, an analyst may want to know how the movement of the market affects the price of ExxonMobil (XOM). In this case, their linear equation will have the value of the S&P 500 index as the independent variable, or predictor, and the price of XOM as the dependent variable. In reality, multiple factors predict the outcome of an event. The price movement of ExxonMobil, for example, depends on more than just the performance of the overall market. Other predictors such as the price of oil, interest rates, and the price movement of oil futures can affect the price of XOM and stock prices of other oil companies. To understand a relationship in which more than two variables are present, multiple linear regression is used. Multiple linear regression (MLR) is used to determine a mathematical relationship among several random variables. In other terms, MLR examines how multiple independent variables are related to one dependent variable. Once each of the independent factors has been determined to predict the dependent variable, the information on the multiple variables can be used to create an accurate prediction on the level of effect they have on the outcome variable. The model creates a relationship in the form of a straight line (linear) that best approximates all the individual data points. Referring to the MLR equation above, in our example: y i = dependent variablethe price of XOM = dependent variablethe price of XOM x i1 = interest rates = interest rates x i2 = oil price = oil price x i3 = value of S&P 500 index = value of S&P 500 index x i4 = price of oil futures = price of oil futures B 0 = y-intercept at time zero = y-intercept at time zero B 1 = regression coefficient that measures a unit change in the dependent variable when x i1 changes - the change in XOM price when interest rates change = regression coefficient that measures a unit change in the dependent variable when x changes - the change in XOM price when interest rates change B 2 = coefficient value that measures a unit change in the dependent variable when x i2 changesthe change in XOM price when oil prices change The least-squares estimatesB 0 , B 1 , B 2 B p are usually computed by statistical software. As many variables can be included in the regression model in which each independent variable is differentiated with a number1,2, 3, 4...p. The multiple regression model allows an analyst to predict an outcome based on information provided on multiple explanatory variables. Still, the model is not always perfectly accurate as each data point can differ slightly from the outcome predicted by the model. The residual value, E, which is the difference between the actual outcome and the predicted outcome, is included in the model to account for such slight variations. Assuming we run our XOM price regression model through a statistics computation software, that returns this output: Image by Sabrina Jiang Investopedia 2020 An analyst would interpret this output to mean if other variables are held constant, the price of XOM will increase by 7.8% if the price of oil in the markets increases by 1%. The model also shows that the price of XOM will decrease by 1.5% following a 1% rise in interest rates. R2indicates that 86.5% of the variations in the stock price of Exxon Mobil can be explained by changes in the interest rate, oil price, oil futures, and S&P 500 index. The Difference Between Linear and Multiple Regression Ordinary linear squares (OLS) regression compares the response of a dependent variable given a change in some explanatory variables. However, a dependent variable is rarely explained by only one variable. In this case, an analyst uses multiple regression, which attempts to explain a dependent variable using more than one independent variable. Multiple regressions can be linear and nonlinear. Multiple regressions are based on the assumption that there is a linear relationship between both the dependent and independent variables. It also assumes no major correlation between the independent variables. What Makes a Multiple Regression Multiple? A multiple regression considers the effect of more than one explanatory variable on some outcome of interest. It evaluates the relative effect of these explanatory, or independent, variables on the dependent variable when holding all the other variables in the model constant. Why Would One Use a Multiple Regression Over a Simple OLS Regression? A dependent variable is rarely explained by only one variable. In such cases, an analyst uses multiple regression, which attempts to explain a dependent variable using more than one independent variable. The model, however, assumes that there are no major correlations between the independent variables. Can I Do a Multiple Regression by Hand? It's unlikely as multiple regression models are complex and become even more so when there are more variables included in the model or when the amount of data to analyze grows. To run a multiple regression you will likely need to use specialized statistical software or functions within programs like Excel. What Does It Mean for a Multiple Regression to Be Linear? In multiple linear regression, the model calculates the line of best fit that minimizes the variances of each of the variables included as it relates to the dependent variable. Because it fits a line, it is a linear model. There are also non-linear regression models involving multiple variables, such as logistic regression, quadratic regression, and probit models. How Are Multiple Regression Models Used in Finance? Any econometric model that looks at more than one variable may be a multiple. Factor models compare two or more factors to analyze relationships between variables and the resulting performance. The Fama and French Three-Factor Mod is such a model that expands on the capital asset pricing model (CAPM) by adding size risk and value risk factors to the market risk factor in CAPM (which is itself a regression model). By including these two additional factors, the model adjusts for this outperforming tendency, which is thought to make it a better tool for evaluating manager performance. What Is a Business Development Company (BDC)?slots plus no deposit bonus codes A business development company (BDC) is an organization that invests in small- and medium-sized companies as well as distressed companies. A BDC helps these firms grow in the initial stages of their development. With distressed businesses, the BDC helps the companies regain sound financial footing. Similar to closed-end investment funds, many BDCs are public companies whose shares trade on major stock exchanges, such as the American Stock Exchange (AMEX), Nasdaq, and others. As investments, they are high-risk but offer higher rewards. Key Takeaways A business development company (BDC) is a type of closed-end fund that makes investments in developing and financially distressed firms. Many BDCs are publicly traded and are open to retail investors. BDCs offer investors high dividend yields and some capital appreciation potential. BDCs' heavy use of leverage and small or distressed company targeting makes them relatively high-risk investments. Understanding Business Development Companies (BDCs) The U.S. Congress created business development companies in 1980 to fuel job growth and assist emerging U.S. businesses in raising funds. BDCs are closely involved in mentoring and developing the companies in their portfolios because it is in a BDC's best interest to help them become successful. BDCs invest in private companies and small public firms that have low trading volumes or are in financial distress. They raise capital through initial public offerings or by issuing corporate bonds and equities or forms of hybrid investment instruments to investors. The raised capital is then used to provide funding for the struggling companies. BDCs can use different financial instruments to provide capital, but in general, most issue loans or purchase stocks or convertible securities from the companies. Qualifying as a BDC To qualify as a BDC, a company must be registered in compliance with Section 54 of the Investment Company Act of 1940. In addition, it must be a domestic company whose class of securities is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The BDC must invest at least 70% of its assets in private or public U.S. firms with market values of less than US$250 million. These companies are often young businesses seeking financing or firms suffering or emerging from financial difficulties. Also, the BDC must provide managerial assistance to the companies in its portfolio. Business development companies avoid corporate income taxes by distributing at least 90% of their income to shareholders. BDCs vs. Venture Capital If BDCs sound similar to venture capital funds, they are. However, there are some key differences. One relates to the nature of the investors each seeks. Venture capital funds are primarily available to large institutions and wealthy individuals through private placements. In contrast, BDCs allow smaller, nonaccredited investors to invest in them, and by extension, in small growth companies. Venture capital funds keep a limited number of investors and must meet specific asset-related tests to avoid being classified as regulated investment companies. On the other hand, BDC shares are typically traded on stock exchanges and are constantly available as investments for the public. BDCs that decline to list on an exchange must follow the same regulations as listed BDCs. However, less stringent provisions for the amount of borrowing, related-party transactions, and equity-based compensation make the BDC an appealing form of incorporation to venture capitalists who were previously unwilling to assume the burdensome regulation of an investment company. Advantages and Disavantages of BDC Investment High dividend yields Open to retail investors Liquid Diversity High-risk Sensitive to interest-rate spikes Illiquid/opaque holdings Can magnify losses Dividends taxed as income Advantages Explained High dividend yields : Because BDCs are regulated investment companies (RICs), they must distribute over 90% of their profits to shareholders. That RIC status means they don't pay corporate income tax on profits before distributing them to shareholders. The result is above-average dividend yields. : Because BDCs are regulated investment companies (RICs), they must distribute over 90% of their profits to shareholders. That RIC status means they don't pay corporate income tax on profits before distributing them to shareholders. The result is above-average dividend yields. Open to retail investors : BDCs expose investors to debt and equity investments in predominantly private companiestypically closed to retail investors. : BDCs expose investors to debt and equity investments in predominantly private companiestypically closed to retail investors. Liquid : BDCs trade on public exchanges, giving them a fair amount of liquidity and transparency. : BDCs trade on public exchanges, giving them a fair amount of liquidity and transparency. Diversity: BDC investments may diversify an investor's portfolio with securities that can display substantially different returns from stocks and bonds. Disadvantages Explained High risk : Although a BDC itself is liquid, many of its holdings are not. The portfolio holdings are primarily private firms or small, thinly-traded public companies. BDCs invest aggressively in companies that offer both income now and capital appreciation later; as such, they register somewhat high on the risk scale. : Although a BDC itself is liquid, many of its holdings are not. The portfolio holdings are primarily private firms or small, thinly-traded public companies. BDCs invest aggressively in companies that offer both income now and capital appreciation later; as such, they register somewhat high on the risk scale. Sensitive to interest rate spikes : A rise in interest ratesmaking it more expensive to borrow fundscan impede a BDC's profit margins. : A rise in interest ratesmaking it more expensive to borrow fundscan impede a BDC's profit margins. Illiquid or opaque holdings : Because most BDC holdings are typically invested in illiquid securities, a BDC's portfolio has subjective fair-value estimates and may experience sudden and quick losses. In addition, the BDC-invested target companies typically have no track records or troubling ones. : Because most BDC holdings are typically invested in illiquid securities, a BDC's portfolio has subjective fair-value estimates and may experience sudden and quick losses. In addition, the BDC-invested target companies typically have no track records or troubling ones. Magnify losses : Losses can be magnified because BDCs often employ leveragethat is, they borrow the money they invest or loan to their target companies. Leverage can improve the rate of return on investment (ROI), but it can also cause cash-flow problems if the leveraged asset declines in value. : Losses can be magnified because BDCs often employ leveragethat is, they borrow the money they invest or loan to their target companies. Leverage can improve the rate of return on investment (ROI), but it can also cause cash-flow problems if the leveraged asset declines in value. Dividends taxed as income: Dividends from BDCs are taxed as income because they don't meet the criteria for qualified dividends. How to Invest in a BDC ProsCons A business development company is a publicly traded firm with stocks trading on public exchanges, so you can purchase stocks through your broker. Some BDC stocks are included in exchange-traded funds and mutual funds. For example, the VanEck BDC Income ETF is offered through many brokers and is available to retail investors. How Does a BDC Make Money? Business development companies can make money in several different ways. One of the most common is to purchase equity from the companies they provide funding for and sell it when it appreciates. If a BDC buys convertible bonds from a company it has invested in, it can receive yields from the bonds and later convert them to equity. Once converted, the equity can be held for appreciation or sold for capital gains. Lending is another way BDCs make money. Similar to a consumer borrowing from a bank, a BDC charges interest on the loans it makes. What Are the Benefits of a BDC? Business development companies provide investors with higher yields and returns. How Does a BDC Make Money? BDCs make money by lending capital to and purchasing equity or bonds from the companies in their portfolio. What Is BDC Lending? Business development company lending is when a BDC lends capital to a company it has invested in. The Bottom Line Business development companies are firms that exist to assist smaller or financially struggling businesses. BDCs use fundraising techniques to raise capital for themselves from investors and then use that money to invest in these smaller businesses. They were created by Congress in 1980 to help small businesses grow while attempting to shield them from predatory tactics sometimes used to take over struggling businesses. BDCs generally have higher returns than mutual funds and exchange-traded funds, but with these returns comes an equal increase in risk and volatility. If you're considering investing in BDCs, it helps to talk to a professional financial advisor to determine if they meet your investing goals and risk tolerance. What Is Affiliate Marketing?poker machines on line Affiliate marketing is an advertising model in which a company compensates third-party publishers to generate traffic or leads to the companys products and services. The third-party publishers are affiliates, and the commission fee incentivizes them to find ways to promote the company. Key Takeaways Affiliate marketing is a marketing scheme in which a company compensates partners for business created from the affiliate's marketing tactics. Digital marketing, analytics, and cookies have made affiliate marketing a billion-dollar industry. Firms typically pay affiliates per sale and less frequently by clicks or impressions. The three main types of affiliate marketing are unattached affiliate marketing, involved affiliate marketing, and related affiliate marketing. Understanding Affiliate Marketing The internet has increased the prominence of affiliate marketing. Amazon (AMZN) popularized the practice by creating an affiliate marketing program whereby websites and bloggers put links to the Amazon page for a reviewed or discussed product to receive advertising fees when a purchase is made. In this sense, affiliate marketing is essentially a pay-for-performance marketing program where the act of selling is outsourced across a vast network. Affiliate marketing predates the Internet, but in the world of digital marketing, analytics, and cookies made it a billion-dollar industry. A company running an affiliate marketing program can track the links that bring in leads and, through internal analytics, see how many convert to sales. An e-commerce merchant wanting to reach a wider base of internet users and shoppers may hire an affiliate. An affiliate could be the owner of multiple websites or email marketing lists; the more websites or email lists that an affiliate has, the wider its network. The hired affiliate then communicates and promotes the products offered on the e-commerce platform to their network. The affiliate does this by running banner ads, text ads, posting links on its websites, or sending emails to clientele. Firms use advertisements in the form of articles, videos, and images to draw an audiences attention to a service or product. Visitors who click the ads or links are redirected to the e-commerce site. If they purchase the product or service, the e-commerce merchant credits the affiliates account with the agreed-upon commission, which could be 5% to 10% of the sales price. According to Business Insider, 15% of e-commerce revenue can be attributed to affiliate marketing. Special Considerations The goal of this model is to increase sales and create a win-win solution for both merchant and affiliate. The system is unique and profitable and becoming increasingly popular. The internet and improving technologies are making the model easier to implement. Companies have improved how they track and pay commissions on qualified leads. Being better able to track leads and sales contributes to how they can improve or better position their products. Those interested in pursuing affiliate marketing will benefit from understanding what's involved, as well as its advantages and disadvantages. Companies seeking affiliates will benefit from properly vetting and qualifying their partners. Overall, it is a low-cost, effective way of advertising products and services, increasing brand awareness, and expanding a consumer base. Types of Affiliate Marketing There are three main types of affiliate marketing: unattached affiliate marketing, related affiliate marketing, and involved affiliate marketing. Unattached Affiliate Marketing: This is an advertising model in which the affiliate has no connection to the product or service they are promoting. They have no known related skills or expertise and do not serve as an authority on or make claims about its use. This is the most uninvolved form of affiliate marketing. The lack of attachment to the potential customer and product absolves the affiliate from the duty to recommend or advise. Related Affiliate Marketing: As the name suggests, related affiliate marketing involves the promotion of products or services by an affiliate with some type of relationship to the offering. Generally, the connection is between the affiliate's niche and the product or service. The affiliate has enough influence and expertise to generate traffic, and their level of authority makes them a trusted source. The affiliate, however, makes no claims about the use of the product or service. Involved Affiliate Marketing: This type of marketing establishes a deeper connection between the affiliate and the product or service they're promoting. They have used or currently use the product and are confident that their positive experiences can be shared by others. Their experiences are the advertisements, and they serve as trusted sources of information. On the other hand, because they're providing recommendations, their reputation may be compromised by any problems arising from the offering. Advantages and Disadvantages of Affiliate Marketing Affiliate marketing can yield great rewards for the advertising company and the affiliate marketer. The company benefits from low-cost advertising and the creative marketing efforts of its affiliates, and the affiliate benefits by earning additional income and incentives. The return on investment for affiliate marketing is high as the company only pays on traffic converted to sales. The cost of advertising, if any, is borne by the affiliate. The advertising company sets the terms of an affiliate marketing program. Early on, companies largely paid the cost per click (traffic) or cost per mile (impressions) on banner advertisements. As technology evolved, the focus turned to commissions on actual sales or qualified leads. The early affiliate marketing programs were vulnerable to fraud because clicks could be generated by software, as could impressions. Now, most affiliate programs have strict terms and conditions on how to generate leads. There are also certain banned methods, such as installing adware or spyware that redirect all search queries for a product to an affiliate's page. Some affiliate marketing programs go as far as to lay out how a product or service is to be discussed in the content before an affiliate link can be validated. So an effective affiliate marketing program requires some forethought. The terms and conditions must be clearly spelled out, especially if the contract agreement pays for traffic rather than sales. The potential for fraud in affiliate marketing is possible. Unscrupulous affiliates can squat on domain names with misspellings and get a commission for the redirect. They can populate online registration forms with fake or stolen information, and they can purchase AdWords on search terms the company already ranks high on, and so on. Even if the terms and conditions are clear, an affiliate marketing program requires that someone monitor affiliates and enforce rules. In exchange, however, a company can access motivated, creative people, to help sell their products or services to the world. Access to a broader market Better accounting of qualified leads Low-cost advertising Subject to fraud Less creative control Vulnerable to theft Examples of Affiliate Marketing Amazon Affiliate Marketing ProsCons Amazon's affiliate marketing program, Amazon Associates, is one of the world's largest affiliate marketing programs. Creators, publishers, and bloggers sign up to have Amazon products and services shared on their websites or apps, and in return, receive compensation for the sales their sites generate. Amazon sets strict criteria for the types of sites and apps that host its ads. For example, sites must not contain replicated content from another site or creator and be available to the public. Websites must be active with fresh content and suitable according to Amazon's standards. For example, they must not contain obscene or offensive content, promote violence or illegal acts, or contain any content deemed harmful to others. Approval is contingent on a thorough review by Amazon staff and meeting a qualified sales quota (three within 180 days of the application). If an application is rejected, it will not be eligible for reconsideration. Once approved, commissions are earned as site visitors purchase products or services from Amazon. Amazon Associates can earn up to 20% in commissions for qualified sales. Rates are fixed and based on product and program categories. As a bonus, Amazon offers special commissions on certain events. Etsy Affiliate Marketing Etsy (ETSY) a global, online marketplace for vintage goods and other unique itemspromotes its products through various channels, including affiliate marketing partners. To apply, applicants must submit an online application through its affiliate program portal. To qualify as an Etsy affiliate marketing partner, eligible candidates must be at least 18, have an active, unique website, have a brand identity, and meet other criteria. If approved, Etsy pays a commission to the affiliate for sales they procuresales resulting from their site's promotion of the product. Commission rates vary and are paid on the order price. Etsy sellers can be affiliates, but they cannot earn commissions on their products without special permission. Etsy declares that it has the right to terminate an agreement at any time for any reason and that it can withhold compensation for any legitimate reason. eBay Affiliate Marketing eBay's Partner Network is eBay's affiliate marketing program that pays partners for sharing their personal listings outside of eBay Inc. (EBAY). The affiliate earns a commission and may earn credit towards their final merchant fees. eBay partners can also earn commissions on other sellers' items. Commissions are earned when a buyer bids on or immediately purchases an item within 24 hours of clicking the eBay purchase link on the affiliate's site. For submitted bids, the commission is paid if the buyer wins the auction within 10 days of the bid. Commission rates depend on the category of items sold and range from 1%-4%. No more than $550 will be paid on any one qualifying sale. Gift cards, items sold by charities, and special promotions are generally excluded as qualifying sales because of their low revenue streams. Buzzfeed Buzzfeed is a New York-based digital media company known for viral news and entertainment stories, quizzes, and product reviews. Its Buzzfeed Shopping segment features and reviews different partners' products and services. Visitors can read Buzzfeed's product reviews and select affiliate links to purchase. Buzzfeed earns a commission from each sale generated from its website. How Do Affiliate Marketers Get Paid? Affiliate marketers get paid a commission for referring customers to companies where they make purchases. These commissions can range from less than 1% to 20% or more, depending on the product and level of referral volume. For online campaigns, a customized link or referral code is used to track sales. In this sense, it is a source or passive income since the affiliate can continue to earn money once they have set up their campaign. How Much Money Can You Make As an Affiliate Marketer? Incomes for affiliate marketers vary, with some making a few hundred dollars and some making six figures. It depends on what is being marketed, how much influence the marketer has, the affiliate's reach, and how much time is invested in marketing products. Often, those spending more time marketing the company's products will earn more money. Can Beginners Do Affiliate Marketing? Becoming successful through affiliate marketing takes time, skill, and experience. However, it may suit beginners a bit better than alternative platforms since you do not have to invest in physical merchandise or inventory at the start. Can You Start Affiliate Marketing With No Money? Yes, there are several free platforms and affiliate networks available for little or no money. Instead, you will need to big a large online following through efforts such as blogging, social media posting, and so on. How Do I Become an Affiliate Marketer? To become an affiliate marketer, consider what platform you will use to promote products and/or services. Blogs are an effective channel for advertising and promoting as it allows the blogger, serving as an expert, to express an opinion about the offering. After identifying a platform, find a specific category that you are comfortable with or interested in. A focused segment can better help you attract a dedicated consumer base. Research affiliate programs and choose one or more based on your needs, whether it be earning high commissions or generating more traffic. Lastly, develop solid and interesting content around the offerings and work to increase traffic to your site. Speaker Nancy Pelosi,nfl odds week 16 zoo keeper crypto who has led Democrats in the House for two decades, announced Thursday that she would remain in Congress next year, but would step down from leadership. No matter what title you all, my colleagues, have bestowed on me, speaker, leader, whip, there is no greater official honor for me than to stand on this floor and speak for the people of San Francisco, Pelosi said, addressing the House chamber in a white suit. This I will continue to do as a member of the House. Pelosi became the first woman to lead a major party in either chamber in 2002, and took the speakers gavel following the 2006 midterm elections. During her tenure as speaker, she played a key role in the passage of virtually every major piece of legislation to become law, including the Affordable Care Act, and oversaw two impeachments of President Donald Trump. When I think of Nancy Pelosi, I think of dignity, President Biden said in a statement. History will note she is the most consequential Speaker of the House of Representatives in our history. Pelosis announcement on Thursday, which came a day after Republicans found they had clinched enough seats to gain control of the chamber in the next Congress, is likely to empower a new generation of Democratic leaders, particularly a trio of lawmakers already serving in House leadership. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries of New York has widely been seen as the favorite to replace her and would be the first Black leader of a major party. Puck Newsreported on Thursday that Pelosi hopes to shepherd Jeffries into the speakership and help smooth the transition. Rep. Katherine Clark of Massachusetts, the assistant speaker, and Rep. Pete Aguilar of California, the vice chair of the Democratic caucus, have also been seen as contenders. Jeffries sat between Aguilar and Clark during the announcement. Other members of leadership sat in the same row: Reps. Jim Clyburn, Sean Patrick Maloney, Steny Hoyer, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. With great confidence in our caucus, I will not seek reelection to Democratic leadership in the next Congress, Pelosi said. The hour has come for a new generation to lead the Democratic caucus that I so deeply respect. And I am grateful that so many are ready and willing to shoulder this awesome responsibility. Clyburn, the highest-ranking Black lawmaker in the House, said in a statement on Thursday that he looked forward to Pelosis continued service, and that he would do whatever he could to assist our new generation of Democratic Leaders which I hope to be Hakeem Jeffries, Katherine Clark, and Pete Aguilar. Pelosi is likely to hand over her speakers gavel to Rep. Kevin McCarthy, who won a vote in a closed-door meeting of the Republican caucus on Wednesday to be its nominee for the job. Republicans are on track to have a narrow majority in the chamber. That lack of wiggle room increases the pressure on members of both parties to remain united come next year. Pelosi has been known as a master of managing her caucus, and will likely continue to do so informally. Read more: The Persistence of Nancy Pelosi Ahead of her announcement, the chamber was packed with Democrats and roughly two dozen Republicans ahead of Pelosis announcement. Members rose in their seats and whooped and cheered as the House was called to order. As Pelosi used her speech to celebrate the ideals of Congress and the greatness of America, members of both parties applauded. When she got to the deadly Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol and the results of last weeks election, they were less united. Their voices were raised in defense of liberty, of the rule of law, and of Democracy itself, she said of voters during the midterm elections. It was one of a handful of moments when Democrats stood and applauded while Republicans largely remained still. Republicans also didnt move when Pelosi mentioned by name enjoying working with Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama and Joe Biden, notably excluding President Trump. Pelosis decision comes less than a month after her husband Paul Pelosi was attacked by an intruder at their San Francisco home who was looking to attack her. She had previously said that the attack, which led to her husband being hospitalized and undergoing surgery to repair a skull fracture late last month, would influence her choice. Her announcement, however, called on members to recall the high principles they serve. This is the most beautiful building in the world, she said, because of what it represents. Illustration: Chen Xia/GT Thismonth marks the 60th anniversary of the Cuban Missile Crisis, which was the closest that the world ever came to a nuclear war. The US and the Soviet Union faced off over Cuba, where the latter had secretly deployed nuclear weapons in response to Washington earlier deploying the same in Turkey. Cooler heads ultimately prevailed, and both superpowers ended up withdrawing their weapons from each of these countries. Nevertheless, this crisis taught everyone some enduring lessons that are relevant today.The first is that security dilemmas are very dangerous. This concept refers to one country unilaterally making moves that it claims are defensive, but which are interpreted by another as offensive. The second country therefore reciprocates in its own way so as to defend its interests, which perpetuates a seemingly never-ending cycle that can reach dramatic proportions if left unchecked. In the case of the Cuban Missile Crisis, everything started with the US' secret deployment of nuclear weapons to Turkey.The second lesson is that superpower politics can lead to comparatively smaller players being exploited as chess pieces in the global struggle between larger ones. Turkey was already a member of NATO at the time that the US secretly deployed nuclear weapons there. Thus, it would have been protected by that superpower in the event of aggression and therefore didn't need to host those arms. Even so, this geostrategic state was still exploited by its ally as a chess piece for gaining a military advantage over the USSR.Third, the entire world is held hostage whenever superpowers compete with one another, be it directly, or by proxy. The stakes are unprecedentedly high considering the fact that they concern humankind's continued survival, yet only a miniscule fraction of the world's population - top decisionmakers in each superpower - have a say over what might happen. This makes superpower competition undemocratic to the core since everyone's future depends on literally just a handful of people.Fourth, respectful dialogue with one another as true equals is the only way to de-escalate security dilemmas between superpowers, especially when they are on the brink of war like during the Cuban Missile Crisis. American and Soviet leaders remained in regular contact during those tense times. Had they not, then a nuclear war might have broken out by miscalculation, something that each of them were aware of and sought to avoid.And finally, the last but most obvious lesson is that nuclear war is always absolutely unacceptable. At all costs, everything must be done to prevent it. Accordingly, every effort should be undertaken to preemptively avert security dilemmas, ensure that no comparatively smaller players are exploited as chess pieces, and that competition between nuclear powers remains friendly and under control. Dialogue must always be maintained too, since disrupting or ending it could prove catastrophic in the worst-case scenario.All of these lessons are relevant to contemporary affairs, especially concerning the US' unprovoked aggression against Russia and China, which are both nuclear powers. Regarding the first, the continued expansion of US-led NATO, steady construction of "anti-missile" systems near that country's borders, and refusal to seriously consider its security guarantee requests from late last year prompted Moscow to resort to military means for ensuring the integrity of its national security red lines in Ukraine.The latest phase of the Ukraine conflict can objectively be described as a proxy war seeing as how both nuclear powers are fighting one another in the former Soviet Republic. Russian President Vladimir Putin very strongly implied that he could resort to nuclear weapons to defend his country's territorial integrity in the absolute worst-case scenario, which has tremendously raised the stakes and influenced US President Joe Biden to warn that the world allegedly stands at the brink of Armageddon once again.As for the US' unprovoked aggression against China, this involves its meddling in the Taiwan region and implied threats to disrupt Sea Lines of Communication in the South China Sea under the guise of falsely described "freedom of navigation" operations. All of these threaten to cross China's national security red lines in the region, though it remains unclear how Beijing would respond if that happens.In any case, the pattern is apparent for all objective observers to see: the US has recklessly provoked security dilemmas with Russia and China. Each of these involves unilateral military moves by the US that it claims to be defensive, but which are regarded by those two as offensive. The US is also exploiting comparatively smaller players to endanger Russia's and China's national security. This could lead to uncontrollable dynamics that put everyone's lives on the line.The only way to avert everything worsening is for the US to enter into respectful dialogue with Russia and China as true equals, something that it loathes to do. That's because unlike during the Cuban Missile Crisis, American decision-makers are intoxicated with discredited supremacist notions of so-called exceptionalism stemming from their victory over the Soviet Union in the Cold War. They regard their country as the global hegemon and wrongly believe it to be below themselves to treat others as equals.It can't be emphasized enough just how dangerous this makes the evolving dynamics in each half of Eurasia, brought about by the US' unprovoked aggression against Russia and China. Leadership isn't bullying, unlike what the incumbent American administration seems to think, but requires pragmatic compromises in pursuit of the greater global good. The first step toward that path is entering into respectful dialogue with Russia and China as true equals, which the world hopes the US will soon do.The author is a Moscow-based American political analyst. [email protected] PDF Playlist Millions Listen online A Boogie wit da Hoodie,odds to win premier league 2022 Wiz Khalifa Wiz KhalifaWiz Khalifa (8 fans) Wiz Khalifa Cameron Jibril Thomaz (born September 8, 1987), better known by the stage name Wiz Khalifa, is an American rapper. He released his debut album, Show and Prove, in 2006, and signed to Warner Bros. Records in 2007. His Eurodance-influenced single, "Say Yeah", received urban radio airplay, charting on the Rhythmic Top 40 and Hot Rap Tracks charts in 2008. Khalifa parted with Warner Bros. and released his second album, Deal or No Deal, in November 2009. He released the mixtape Kush and Orange Juice as a free download in April 2010; he then signed with Atlantic Records. He is also well known for his debut single for Atlantic, "Black and Yellow", which peaked at number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. His debut album for the label, Rolling Papers, was released on March more 3:31 22 Views Playlists: #1 Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer YeahYeahYeahYeahYeahNever gon' fall on my jobI'ma always go real, real hardNever gon' turn on my dogsEverything I do for me and my squadShorty keep calling my phoneThinking I want her but we don't get alongPapers or out of a bongEverything I smoke real, real strongI don't get regular domeCome to my crib, that's a real big homeI don't do nothing but conesHit the weed once and you will get stonedI'm in the building (I'm in the building)I'm with the millions (I'm with the millions)More than a little bitI'm rolling up more than a little bit broI did a real big showI made a lil' bit growYoung but I still get doughMy niggas still kick doorsY'all niggas still rent yoursMy shit is all paid forHop in the car, take offGet a new broad, smash offI just got all cash, dogI'm rich and I cop me a paycheckCame straight to the top from the basementMy time is money, I don't waste itI'm rolling weed up and she taste itYou prolly end up where my place isPulled up with a bag full of facesFull of facesFull of facesNow she look in amazementNever gon' fall on my jobI'ma always go real, real hardNever gon' turn on my dogsEverything I do for me and my squadShorty keep calling my phoneThinking I want her but we don't get alongPapers or out of a bongEverything I smoke real, real strongI don't get regular domeCome to my crib, that's a real big homeI don't do nothing but conesHit the weed once and you will get stonedI'm in the building (I'm in the building)I'm with the millions (I'm with the millions)More than a little bitI'm rolling up more than a little bit broYeah, I know the Hills feel goodBut so what, I'm still real hoodShe told me the pills feel goodYou don't have to squeal, it feels good, yeahAdderall pills feel good, yeahI know they would kill for a bill, yeahMade a couple million off the deal, yeahBut I'm still in my hood, yeahDrop top coupe in my hood, yeahI get money, I'm good, yeahI break hearts but I'm in love, yeahSuper bad like McLovinI'm so good at switching subjectsI count up and make 'em upsetPurple check, I pull my Percs, yeahPurple drink, got syrup on deckAnd everything that I said, she probably don't careI'm only thinking about you 'cause you're not hereAnd I came in a Lamborghini, it ain't fairNew jeans, probably got a hundred damn pairsHoodie on, trust me it's a nightmarePut a bully on his ass 'cause I don't fight fairPutting on my glove, feelin' like Mike, yeahNever gon' fall on my jobI'ma always go real, real hardNever gon' turn on my dogsEverything I do for me and my squadShorty keep calling my phoneThinking I want her but we don't get alongPapers or out of a bongEverything I smoke real, real strongI don't get regular domeCome to my crib, that's a real big homeI don't do nothing but conesHit the weed once and you will get stonedI'm in the building (I'm in the building)I'm with the millions (I'm with the millions)More than a little bitI'm rolling up more than a little bit broOh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-ohOh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-ohOh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-ohOh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh The move gets an A for symbolism and a D for everything else. 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Raw Gold|Bertrand W. Sinclair He picked out that simple little study of Cramer in D major in the first bookyou know it welland asked me to play it. Music-Study in Germany|Amy Fay What is black diamond casino welcome bonusAPA Style? APA Style is a set of conventions and standards for written communications put forth by the American Psychological Association. These standards allow for ease of communication between authors and readers, similar to the way physicists or mathematicians use universal symbols to make communication easier. APA Style is primarily used in academic settings for research papers among university students and faculty. APA Style has standards concerning, Format and page layout (margins, headings, page numbers, etc.) Stylistic considerations (spelling, abbreviations, punctuation, footnotes, etc.) Citing Sources Preparing a finished product for publication Why Should I Use APA Style? As with anything you write, you must keep you audience in mind. Who will be reading your work? In APA Style, you will find a set of conventions that, when adhered to, allow for the ease of communication. Using one set style type allows readers to navigate their way through your work with ease and follow your arguments, citations, and source materials. Can you imagine if every researcher in a given discipline used a different method of source citation? Think of all the wasted time the reader would spend just trying to understand the organization of the paper, let alone the arguments being put forth. The APA Style allows for a consistent, uniform presentation of a papers findings so that the maximum amount of time can be spent on the content, not the formatting. Who Uses APA Style? APA Style is primarily used in the social sciences but is also used elsewhere. Psychology Sociology Education Economics Business Medicine Public Health Formatting All major styles have formatting requirements for how the text should appear on your page. This allows for ease of reading and a consistent experience across papers. Margins Margins should be one inch from the top, bottom, left, and right of the paper. (1 inch = 2.5cm) Page numbers should be set at one-half inch (1.25 cm) from the upper right hand corner and flush with the right margin. The running head of the paper should be set one-half inch (1.25 cm) from the upper left hand corner and flush with the left margin. Except for the running title and pages numbers, the margins on an APA Style papers should be one inch at the top and bottom and on both sides of the text. The first word of every paragraph should be indented one-half inch from the left margin. This can be accomplished in Microsoft Word and other word processors by hitting the tab key. Text Formatting Font: APA Style prefers Times New Roman Size: 12-point font size Do not justify the text Double-space the entire research paper research paper Leave one space after a period (unless instructor prefers two) When writing a paper in APA Style or any other style, you should always choose a font that is easy to read. You also want to pick a typeface that has a clear contrast between its regular and italic style. APA Style prefers using Times New Roman, but if your instructor specifies something different, follow his/her guidelines. Next you will want to pick a standard size to use, 12-point font when using APA. Again, if your academic department or teacher has its own standard, use that. Your paper should be double-spaced throughout its entirety, including quotations, notes, and onto your references page, and appendix. Finally, leave one space, not two, after each period or other concluding punctuation mark unless your teacher prefers otherwise. Order of an APA Style Research Paper Title Page Abstract (start on separate page numbered page 2) Text (start on separate page numbered page 3) References (start on separate page) Tables (start on separate page) Figures (start on separate page) Appendices (start on separate page) Title Page Unlike MLA Style, which has an optional title page, APA Style requires all research papers to feature a title page. As such, they also have specific formatting requirements for how that title page should look. A title page in APA Style has five elements: Running Head Title Author Byline Institutional Affiliation Authors Note. The running head is an abbreviated version of your title that will be at the top of every page of your paper. It should be set one-half inch (1.25 cm) from the upper left hand corner and flush with the left margin. The top of your title page should also include a right-aligned page number, which will always be 1 since this will be your first page. Your papers title should be a few spaces down on your paper and centered. Underneath the title, list your name and institutional affiliation. Your title should not be underlined, in quotations, bolded, or in all capitals. Only primary words should be capitalized, and you should only italicize words that would appear in italics in your text. For example, My Opinion on Huckleberry Finn Attitudes Toward Race Relations in To Kill A Mockingbird APA Style recommends that your title be less than 12 words. Do not use a period after your title or after any of the headings in your paper. The last item to be included on a title page is the authors note. The authors note appears with printed scholarly articles. It identifies the authors departmental affiliation, provides acknowledgements, states any disclaimers or possible conflicts of interest, and provides contact information for the reader. The authors note is different than the abstract and is generally not required on student papers. If you are an undergraduate student, default not to include an authors note. Abstract The abstract is a concise summary of the entire article. Think of it like an executive summary. A good abstract will identify the problem discussed in the article, indentify the parties involved in the study, briefly mention methodology, and outline the findings and conclusion. Most scholarly journals require an abstract, but many undergraduate professors do not. Check with each instructor on whether or not they want an abstract included. Text Your paper should be double-spaced throughout, and on all text pages, the running head of your paper should appear as seen below. Page Numbers Place page number on all pages, including cover page. Page numbers should be one-half inch from top right of paper and flush with the right margin. Each page on your paper should have an ordered number in the top right hand corner, one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin. This includes your cover page. Also, appearing flush with your left margin should be the shortened title of your research paper. If you do not have a shortened title, include the first few words or your regular title. Tables and Figures In APA Style, single and one-and-a-half spacing is acceptable in tables. Any tables or figures mentioned in text should also appear in a separate section following the references page. Citations and Reference List Properly documenting your sources is extremely important. Not only does it avoid accidental plagiarism, but it also allows the reader to see whom you are referencing. In APA Style, you cite your sources with parenthetical citations in your text that reference a chronological list that follows your research paper called a references page. These parenthetical citations are called in-text citations and there are a few ways you can do them. In APA Style the in-text citations provide at least the authors last name and the year of publication. If you are not directly quoting the material or if you are referencing an entire book, article, or other work, you do not need to include a page number. However, if you are using direct quotes or paraphrasing a material, you should include a page number. The examples below will include page numbers. Author Not Mentioned In Text (Name, Year, Page) This idea is nothing new and has been talked about for years (Smith, 2005, p. 87). Author Mentioned in Text (Year)(Page) This idea is nothing new and has been talked about by various authors such as John Smith for years (2005, p. 87). Author with Same Last Name as Others in References List (Initial + Name, Year, Page) This idea is nothing new and has been talked about for years (J. Smith, 2005, p. 87). Two Authors (Name & Name, Year, Page) This idea is nothing new and has been talked about for years (Smith & Colson, 2005, p. 87). Three-Five Authors First Citation: (Name, Name,, & Name, Year, Page) This idea is nothing new and has been talked about for years (Smith, Colson, & Brown, 2005, p. 87). Subsequent Citation: (Name et al., Year, Page) This idea is nothing new and has been talked about for years (Smith et al., 2005, p. 87). Six or More Authors (Name et al., Year, Page) This idea is nothing new and has been talked about for years (Smith et al., 2005, p. 87). Work Without an Author (Short Title, Year, Page) This idea is nothing new and has been talked about for years (Title of Book, 2005, p. 87). Multiple Citations with Different Authors (Cite; Cite; Cite) This idea is nothing new and has been talked about for years (Smith et al., 2005; Johnson et al., 2009). Multiple Citations With the Same Author (Name, Year, Year, , Year) This idea is nothing new and has been talked about for years (Smith, 2005, 2009, 2011). Footnotes Footnotes are minimally used in APA Style to provide additional content or to acknowledge copyright permission status. They are not used for citations. Reference List Page Your reference page should immediately follow your papers text. Any source that you use in your paper should appear in an alphabetized list on this page. Here are the basic guidelines, Entries are in alphabetical order by authors last name, or by title for sources without authors. Authors first name is always reduced to initials. Entries should be double-spaced and have a period at the end. In article titles, only capitalize the first word and proper nouns. * Use the ampersand & instead of and for entries with multiple authors. Use p. or pp. to abbreviate paper number. The first line of an entry is flush with the left margin. If an entry goes on to two lines, indent it one-half inch. Italicize, not underline, books. In APA Style titles of articles in a newspaper or online are treated just like a sentence. Only the first word is capitalized. If there is a colon, the first word after colon is also capitalized. Proper nouns are capitalized too, just like a sentence. Citation Examples Below are specific examples and guides you can use for creating your own citations from sources in the following mediums. Citing Books Basic Format Author Name. (Year of publication). Title and subtitle. City of publication: Name of publisher. Lee, H. (1960). To kill a mockingbird. New York: Grand Central Publishing. If the book was produced by an organization, not an individual, list the organization as the author. Electronic Book Lee, H. (2009). To kill a mockingbird[Kindle edition]. New York: Grand Central Publishing. (Original work published in 1960). Lee, H. (2009). To kill a mockingbird[PDF e-book]. New York: Grand Central Publishing. (Original work published in 1960). Online Book Twain, M. (2010) Autobiography of Mark Twain, Volume 1. Available at [URL] Edited Book (Anthology or Collection of Essays) Meehan, W. (Ed.). (2009). Conversations with William F. Buckley Jr. Jackson: University Press of Mississippi. Revised or Updated Edition If the book you are citied is an updated or revised edition, include this information between the title and the publication facts. Sowell, T. (2015). Basic of Economics(5th ed.). New York: Basic Books. Multivolume Work If you cite one book from a group of books (called a multivolume work), list only the specific volume that you consulted. Byrne, M. S. C. (Ed.). (1981). The Lisle letters(Vol. 4). Chicago: University of Chicago Press. Single Chapter in an Edited Book If you only need to cite a single chapter in an anthology, use the below method. This basic method works for citing a letter in a collection, a short story in a collection, a single poem in a collection. Lamb, B. (2009). William F. Buckley Jr.: Happy days were here again. In W. Meehan (Ed.), Conversations with William F. Buckley Jr. (pp. 99-118). University Press of Mississippi. Introduction, Prefaces, Afterwords If you are citing an introduction or preface to a book that was written by someone other than the books author, cite it separately. Friedman, M. (1994). Introduction. In F. Hayek, The road to serfdom. (pp. 1-9). Chicago: University of Chicago Press. Citing Articles from Journals, Magazines, and Newspapers Basic Format Authors Name. (Date of publication in Parenthesis). Title and subtitle. Journal Title, Volume number, Page number. Print Journal Matarrita-Cascante, D. (2010). Beyond growth: Reaching tourism-led development. Annals of Tourism Research, 37.4, 41-63. Print Journal Obtained from Publisher If you obtained access to a print journal through an online database, include information for the print edition, followed by the database (in italics). If there are no page numbers, use n. pag. instead. Matarrita-Cascante, D. (2010). Beyond growth: Reaching tourism-led development Electronic Version. Annals of Tourism Research,37.4, 41-63. Print Journal Obtained from Online Database Matarrita-Cascante, D. (2010). Beyond growth: Reaching tourism-led development. Annals of Tourism Research, 37.4, 41-63. Retrieved from JSTOR database. Online Journal Matarrita-Cascante, D. (2010). Beyond growth: Reaching tourism-led development. Annals of Tourism Research, 37.4. Retrieved October 22, 2005, from [URL] Print Magazine For print magazines, do not include article or issue numbers, even if they are given. If, in the magazine, the article is interrupted by other content, list all pages. Salam, R. (2013, October 14). Bill de Blasios New York. National Review. 17-20. Print Magazine Consulted Online Salam, R. (2013, October 14). Bill de Blasios New York. National Review. Retrieved March 15, 2009, from [URL] Newspaper Article For print, include all pages numbers, with letters identifying sections, if available. Wei, L. (2015, March 1). China rate cut renews economic concerns. The Wall Street Journal, B1, B2. Wei, L. (2015, March 1). China rate cut renews economic concerns. The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved March 1, 2015, from [URL] Citing From Reference Works American Heritage Dictionary(5th ed.). (2012). Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. American Heritage Dictionary Online. (n.d.). Available from [URL] Internal Combustion Engine. (2004). The world book encyclopedia. Chicago: World Book. Citing Internet Websites and Blogs Websites dont follow the same rules as some of the other traditional sources from above do. Given this fact, you may need to improvise at times, doing your best to still supply the same kind of information that is required of a traditional publication. Author, if listed Website Title Date of Publication, (If none, put n.d.) Retrieval Statement (or Available from and a homepage) Single Web Page University of Michigan Library. Introduction to Research.(n.d.). Retrieved June 1, 2005, from the University of Michigan Library website: [URL] Blog Salam, R. (2015, March 1). The underpolicing problem. The Corner[Web log]. Available from [Web log homepage URL] Blog Entry Salam, R. (2015, March 1). The underpolicing problem. The Corner[Web log]. Retrieved from [URL] YouTube Video Basic Format Posters Username/Author. (Publication Year) Title of Video Clip. Medium. Retrieved from [URL to video] LibertyinOurTime. (2010). How much can discrimination explain?Online video clip. Retrieved from [URL] Additional Information For more information on APA Style, I advise getting either of the following books, Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, 6th Edition. -or- A Writers Reference, 7th Edition by Diana Hacker. ladbrokes india blackjack countingshows grade level based on the word's complexity. dandruff [ dan-druhf ]/ dn drf / New Word List Save This Word!See dandruffFirst recorded in 153545; origin uncertain OTHER WORDS FROM dandruff dandruffy, dandriffy, adjective Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.[ dan-druhf ]/ dn drf /Save This Word!See dandruffFirst recorded in 153545; origin uncertaindandruffy, dandriffy, adjective Words nearby dandruff Words related to dandruff C16: dand-, of unknown origin + -ruff, probably from Middle English roufe scab, from Old Norse hrufa dandify, dandiprat, dandle, Dandolo, Dandong, dandruff, D&S, dandy, dandy brush, dandy fever, dandy rollDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 Photo: VCG TheNational Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), China's top economic planner, released a report on development of the digital economy on Wednesday, reviewing the past achievements in digital reforms while providing a clear vision and guidelines for the future as China aims for breakthroughs in "bottleneck" technologies.In striving to achieve the goals, concentrated efforts will be made in promoting breakthroughs in key core technologies, while firmly supporting autonomy in the development of the digital economy, the report said.Aiming at the frontier areas of global digital technology and major issues of core technologies, the country will gather strength to carry out leading research, with greater efforts in key areas such as integrated circuits, displays, software, artificial intelligence, big data and cloud computing, the NDRC said.To achieve the goals, China will advance the deployment of digital infrastructure construction and create an industrial system with international competitiveness, while cultivating a group of ecologically led enterprises with key core technologies and international competitiveness in the fields of artificial intelligence and advanced computing, the report said.Other efforts will also be looked into, such as further integration of digital technology into the real economy and shaping an internationally competitive digital industry cluster, according to the NDRC.By 2025, the digital economy will enter a period of comprehensive expansion and the ability of digital innovation to lead development will be greatly improved, the report said.In the past 10 years, China's digital economy has achieved world-renowned development achievements, achieving an overall scale ranking second in the world for many years, and its leading role in economic and social development has become increasingly prominent.The scale of the core industries of the digital economy has accelerated over the past decade, which is partially reflected in the national software business revenue, jumping from 2.5 trillion yuan ($352.66 billion) in 2012 to 9.6 trillion yuan ($1.35 trillion) in 2021, with an average annual growth rate of 16.1 percent.While China is strengthening its digital transformation, international cooperation in the digital economy has been expanded.Up to now, China has signed Digital Silk Road memoranda of understanding with 16 countries, and it has established the "Silk Road e-commerce" bilateral cooperation mechanism with 24 countries as part of the country's efforts to share market opportunities with the rest of the world.China will actively participate in international cooperation in the digital economy and promote the building of a community of shared future in cyberspace, the report said. Davy Jones's Locker Davy Jones's locker Also, Davy's locker. The bottom of the sea, especially the grave of those who die at sea. For example, Caught out at sea during the hurricane, they thought they were heading for Davy Jones's locker. This term, first recorded in 1726, alludes to Davy Jones, a name given to the evil spirit of the sea. The ultimate origin of both Davy and Jones is disputed. A logical theory is that Jones referred to the biblical Jonah who was swallowed by a whale, and Davy was a corruption of a West Indian word for devil. What Is a Financial Advisor?sportsbet mobile app chiefs bet A financial advisor provides financial advice or guidance to customers for compensation. Financial advisors (sometimes spelled as advisers) can provide many different services, such as investment management, tax planning, and estate planning. Increasingly, financial advisors are acting as a "one-stop-shop" by providing everything from portfolio management to insurance products. Registered advisors must carry the Series 65 license to conduct business with the public. A wide variety of other licenses and certifications may be required depending on the services provided by a given financial advisor. Key Takeaways A financial advisor is a professional who provides expertise for clients' decisions around money matters, personal finances, and investments. Financial advisors may work as independent agents or they may be employed by a larger financial firm. Registered advisors must pass one or more exams and be properly licensed in order to carry out business with clients. Unlike stockbrokers who simply execute orders in the market, financial advisors provide guidance and make informed decisions on behalf of their clients. Financial advisor's pay can be based on a fee, commission, profit-percentage structure, or a combination thereof. Portfolio Management Understanding Financial Advisors 1:36 "Financial advisor" is a generic term with no precise industry definition. As a result, this title can describe many different types of financial professionals. Stockbrokers, insurance agents, tax preparers, investment managers, and financial planners can all be considered financial advisors. Estate planners and bankers may also fall under this umbrella. Still, an important distinction can be made: that is, a financial advisor must actually provide guidance and advice.A financial advisor can be distinguished from an execution stockbroker that simply places trades for clients or a tax accountant who simply prepares tax returns without providing advice on how to maximize tax advantages. Furthermore, what may pass as a financial advisor in some instances may simply be a product salesperson, such as a stockbroker or a life insurance agent. A true financial advisor should be a well-educated, credentialed, experienced, financial professional who works on behalf of their clients, as opposed to serving the interests of a financial institution by maximizing the sales of certain products or capitalizing on commissions from sales. 275,200 There were 275,200 professional financial advisors in the U.S. as of 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Generally, a financial advisor is an independent practitioner who operates in a fiduciary capacity in which a clients interests come before their own. However, only Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs), who are governed by the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, are held to a true fiduciary standard. This fiduciary standard mandates that an RIA must always unconditionally put the client's best interests ahead of their own, regardless of all other circumstances. There are some agents and brokers who elect to practice in this capacity, as a fiduciary, as a way of attracting clients. However, their compensation structure is such that they are bound by the contracts of the companies where they work. The Fiduciary Distinction Since the enactment of the Investment Adviser Act of 1940, two types of relationships have existed between financial intermediaries and their clients. These are the reasonableness standard and the stricter fiduciary standard. These relationships characterize the nature of the transactions between registered representatives and clients in the broker-dealer space. There is a fiduciary relationship that requires advisors registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as Registered Investment Advisors to exercise duties of loyalty, care, and full disclosure in their interactions with clients. While the former is based on the principle of "caveat emptor" guided by self-governed rules of "suitability" and "reasonableness" in recommending an investment product or strategy, the latter is grounded in federal laws that impose the highest ethical standards. At its core, the fiduciary relationship relies on the necessity that a financial advisor must act on behalf of a client in a way the client would act for themself if they had the requisite knowledge and skills to do so. Financial Advisors vs. Financial Planners The financial planner is one particular type of financial advisor who specializes in helping companies and individuals create a program to meet long-term financial goals. A financial planner might have a specialty in investments, taxes, retirement, and/or estate planning. Further, the financial planner may hold various licenses or designations, such as the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation. Financial planners may specialize in tax planning, asset allocation, risk management, retirement planning, and/or estate planning. How Do You Become a Financial Advisor? To become a financial advisor, one first needs to complete a bachelor's degree. A degree in finance or economics is not needed, but this does help. From there, you would look to be hired by a financial institution, most often joining through an internship. It is recommended to work at an institution as it will sponsor you for the industry licenses you need to complete before being able to practice as a financial advisor. You can do these on your own; however, it is easier to do through a company. An internship or entry-level job will also help you understand the industry and what is required for the career. The licenses you will need to complete may include Series 7, Series 63, Series 65, and Series 6. Once you obtain the licenses, you can work as a financial advisor. What Do Financial Advisors Do? Financial advisors are tasked with managing every aspect of your financial life, from retirement planning to estate planning to savings and investing. They are responsible for more than just suggesting investment choices or selling financial products. They assess your financial status and understand your financial goals and create a tailored financial plan to achieve those goals. They can help reduce the taxes you pay and maximize the returns on any financial assets you may own. How Much Does a Financial Advisor Cost? The cost of a financial advisor depends on the services you hire them for. Generally, the average fee a financial advisor charges is 1% on assets under management (AUM); however, many financial advisors operate on a sliding scale, so the more business you do, the lower this fee will be. There are also different fees for the different tasks that a financial advisor will perform. Many financial advisors charge a flat annual fee between $2,000 and $7,500; between $1,000 and $3,000 for creating a tailored financial plan and depending on the agreement, commissions of 3% to 6% on the account. How Much Does a Financial Advisor Make? The amount that a financial advisor makes depends on a variety of factors, such as their experience, the region in which they work, their types of clients, the types of products they sell, and the type of financial advice they provide. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2020, the median pay of a financial advisor was $89,330 per year/$42.95 an hour. The Bottom Line Financial advisors help their clients achieve financial independence and security. They can work independently or as part of a larger firm, and generally pursue professional designations proving their knowledge. Their pay is based on a number of factors, and the average starting salary is well above the national average. 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The inquiry is examining new scientific evidence that Kathleen Folbiggs four young children may have died of natural causes between 1989 and 1999. Folbigg, now 55, was found guilty in 2003 of three charges of murder and one of manslaughter. But growing numbers of scientists are convinced that recent genetic breakthroughs have created reasonable doubt of her guilt. Mette Nyegaard and Michael Toft Overgaard, both researchers at Denmarks Aalborg University, are among the authors of a scientific article published last year about a genetic variant carried by Folbigg and both her daughters, Sarah and Laura. 2 MORE WHALES DIE AS DEATH TOLL NEARS 200 IN AUSTRALIA MASS STRANDING The variant, CALM2-G114R, which was discovered nine years after Folbiggs convictions, can cause heart arrhythmias and sudden death in young children. "We think it is likely this mutation could have caused the deaths," Overgaard told the inquiry. Nyegaard agreed, saying, "It Iooks like a bad variant." But Folbiggs two sons, Patrick and Caleb, did not carry the mutation and also died. Professor Mette Nyegaard, left, and Professor Michael Toft Overgaard return from a break for the second inquiry into Kathleen Folbigg's convictions for killing four of her children in Sydney, Australia, on Nov. 15, 2022. (Bianca De Marchi/AAP Image via AP) Caleb was born in 1989 and died 19 days later in what a jury determined to be the lesser crime of manslaughter. Her second child, Patrick, was 8 months old when he died in 1991. Two years later, Sarah died at 10 months. In 1999, Folbiggs fourth child, Laura, died at 19 months. The inquiry, led by retired New South Wales state Supreme Court Chief Justice Tom Bathurst, began on Monday and is the second judicial investigation into Folbiggs convictions. The first inquiry by retired District Court Chief Justice Reginald Blanch concluded in 2019 that there was no reasonable doubt that Folbigg was guilty of killing her children. But that finding came before the new research into the daughters genetic mutations. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP The next hearing in the investigation is to be held next year. Folbigg is serving a 30-year prison sentence which will expire in 2033. She will become eligible for parole in 2028. Thankfully, his assistant knows these roads like the back of his hand. After the New York mentality, it is the ultimate contrast to see people making things by hand, he said. Eating disorders, on the other hand, are driven largely by biological processes that occur on the inside. Prices are relatively inexpensive and come in at around 135 euros for a shirt or 35 euros for hand woven boxers. The Photographer Who Gave Up Manhattan for Marrakech|Liza Foreman|January 6, 2015|DAILY BEAST After relievedly giving the pistol to the nearest soldier, he stumbled quickly over to Brion and took his hand. 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Key Takeaways A trustee is a person or firm that holds and administers property or assets for the benefit of a third party. A trustee may be appointed for various purposes, such as in the case of bankruptcy, for a charity, or for a trust fund. A trustee's has a fiduciary responsibility to the trust beneficiaries and must make decisions in their best interests. How a Trustee Works A trustee is any person or organization that holds the legal title of an asset or group of assets for another person, called the grantor. A trustee is granted this legal title through a trust in which the they hold title to the assets held in trust for the benefit of others. The people or entities who benefit from the trust are called beneficiaries. A trust is a legal entity in which a person or party who owns assets (also called a trustor) gives another party (the trustee) title to those assets or property for the benefit of a third party. For example, a trust might be created to provide legal protection for the trustor's assets and ensure they are appropriately distributed. The trustee is charged with ensuring that the trustor's wishes are fulfilled. A trustee is thus responsible for properly managing all property and other assets placed in the trust for the beneficiaries. A trustee's specific duties are unique to the trust agreement and are dictated by the type of assets held in the trust. For instance, if a trust holds various rental properties intended to be used for income, it will be the trustee's duty to ensure those those properties are managed, maintained, occupied, and generating income. Trustees are also required to financially manage and oversee accounts within a trust when it is made up of other investments, such as equities in a brokerage account. Trustees have a fiduciary duty to the trust's beneficiaries, which means they are required to put aside personal interests, beliefs, and biases to do what's best for the trust. Responsibilities of a Trustee All trustees have general guidelines and responsibilities, regardless of the specifics in the trust agreement. Trustees generally assume the following duties: Act as a fiduciary : The role of the trustee is to ensure the trust is administered in accordance with the grantor's wishes. : The role of the trustee is to ensure the trust is administered in accordance with the grantor's wishes. Ensure the safety of the assets : Accounting for the funds and assets within the trust and understanding who the beneficiaries are and what their rights are. Trustees also ensure trust assets are kept separate from other assets. : Accounting for the funds and assets within the trust and understanding who the beneficiaries are and what their rights are. Trustees also ensure trust assets are kept separate from other assets. Administer the trust : Keeping records of all transactions and distributing assets as required : Keeping records of all transactions and distributing assets as required File reports : Reporting to state and federal regulators as required and keeping the beneficiaries updated : Reporting to state and federal regulators as required and keeping the beneficiaries updated Make decisions : A trustee will be required to make decisions about the assets from time to time as circumstances change. The decisions must align with the grantor's wishes. : A trustee will be required to make decisions about the assets from time to time as circumstances change. The decisions must align with the grantor's wishes. Invest : Any investable assets must be invested, allocated, or adjusted as needed in accordance with the wishes of the grantor. : Any investable assets must be invested, allocated, or adjusted as needed in accordance with the wishes of the grantor. Communicate with beneficiaries: Trustees should initiate communication with the beneficiaries, not wait for contact. Emails, phone calls, or other methods can be used to check in. Beneficiaries should clearly understand the grantor's wishes for the trust, and the trustee should be prepared to answer questions. Types of Trustees A trustee can be someone you know, but it might be best to find someone with experience. They should understand the trust being set up and know what their responsibilities are. For example, if the trust includes growing assets for your family's future generations, you'd want to appoint someone who understands how to grow wealth. There are generally three types of trustees: Individual : These trustees are friends or family members the grantor trusts to administer the funds assets. : These trustees are friends or family members the grantor trusts to administer the funds assets. Independent : These are businesses not part of a financial institution specializing in trust fund management. You'll find investment advisors, accountants, and administrators at these private businesses. Many have names like XYZ Trust Company or ABC Wealth and Trust. : These are businesses not part of a financial institution specializing in trust fund management. You'll find investment advisors, accountants, and administrators at these private businesses. Many have names like XYZ Trust Company or ABC Wealth and Trust. Institutional: Many large financial institutions have trust fund professionals that administer, invest, and manage trusts for their clients. Trustee vs. Executor A trustee administers and manages a trust fund. An executor manages and administers the estate of someone who has died and left assets to heirs through a will. An individual can name one person for each role or could appoint one to perform both roles. Like a trustee, an executor can be a trust company, a bank, or a trusted friend or family member. The executor must distribute assets in accordance with the will left by the deceased. Trustees and executors must both follow the laws in their state when performing their duties. Who to Choose As a Trustee Choosing a trustee might be one of the most challenging tasks when creating a trust. It's tough to know which person or entity you can trust to administer your assets the way you want them to. Here are some considerations for choosing a trustee: Wealth Management/Trust Company : A wealth management and trust company has finance professionals, attorneys, and accountants and will administer a trust to the letter. Your trust can be set up to pay any fees they may charge, but you'll be able to rest knowing your assets are in the hands of someone who will act in the trust's best interests. : A wealth management and trust company has finance professionals, attorneys, and accountants and will administer a trust to the letter. Your trust can be set up to pay any fees they may charge, but you'll be able to rest knowing your assets are in the hands of someone who will act in the trust's best interests. Friends or family : You can choose a trusted friend or family member, but you'll need to ensure they are up to the task of administering your trust. Additionally, they'll need an iron will to withstand the drama and resentment that can arise when a family member is in charge of large sums of money and won't give any out on demand. This person must also be willing and able to continue the task as long as the trust exists. Lastly, you'll need to consider and appoint an alternate in case something happens to the primary trustee. This ensures your trust is administered by someone you choose rather than having the courts choose for you. : You can choose a trusted friend or family member, but you'll need to ensure they are up to the task of administering your trust. Additionally, they'll need an iron will to withstand the drama and resentment that can arise when a family member is in charge of large sums of money and won't give any out on demand. This person must also be willing and able to continue the task as long as the trust exists. Lastly, you'll need to consider and appoint an alternate in case something happens to the primary trustee. This ensures your trust is administered by someone you choose rather than having the courts choose for you. Trust Attorney/Lawyer: A trust attorney can also be an excellent choice. They'll be very familiar with trust laws in your state and be a reliable trustee. However, if one of your intentions as the grantor is to grow wealth within the trust, a lawyer may not be an investment professional or understand how to manage wealth. What Is the Role of a Trustee? A trustee administers a trust based on the instructions left by the grantor. This can include communicating with beneficiaries, allocating funds to investments, distributing payments according to instructions, and much more. What Does It Mean If Someone Is a Trustee? A trustee has been given the responsibility of ensuring a grantor's assets are used the way they intended them to be. What Are the 3 Duties of a Trustee? A trustee must administer the trust per the grantor's instructions, be loyal to the beneficiaries, and deal with beneficiaries impartially. The Bottom Line A trustee is someone who has been granted a fiduciary responsibility to care for the assets placed in a trust. There are many reasons for placing assets into a trust, from ensuring you have income in your later years to growing wealth for your family and having it distributed as income after you pass. All states have laws governing trusts and how they must be administered, so when choosing a trustee, it's essential for the person you choose to understand trusts and be up to the task. If you don't know someone capable of being a trustee, you can find wealth management companies, banks, trust companies, and attorneys specializing in administering trusts. What Is a Reference Number?evergrow token king bets telegram A reference number is a unique identifier assigned to any financial transaction including those made using a credit or debit card. The reference number is created technologically and designated for a single transaction. A reference number helps an institution identify transactions in records and electronic databases used to monitor transactions associated with a card. Reference numbers from each transaction on a customers account are usually included in a cardholders monthly statement. Key Takeaways Reference numbers are identifiers (a group of random numbers and/or letters) assigned to credit or debit transactions. These are used to track transactions and make it easier and quicker for customer service reps. Reference numbers are often used in correspondence about a credit or debit transaction. Other types of reference numbers can include those on credit cards or loan applications. They can also include those given by merchants during a transaction, or those given by customer service reps when a customer inquires about a product or service. Understanding a Reference Number Reference numbers are used by financial institutions to make compiling and queries of millions of transactions easier to manage. They are generated once a transaction is completed and are made up of a combination of random letters and numbers. Reference numbers are generally assigned to transactions such as certain deposits and withdrawals, bank transfers, wire transfers, and bill payments. These numbers are used in both printed statements and online banking statements that a cardholder can access at any time. Credit card statements provide a summary of all of the transactions a cardholder makes during a given time period. Regulations require card companies to provide cardholders with instructions concerning the contents of the statement, as well as how to read and understand the different sections. Some companies may use the term file number when referring to a reference number. Special Considerations Reference numbers make it easier for customers to interact with customer service representatives. Consumers can communicate questionable transactions to the representative, who can then investigate them through their database to obtain more details about the transactions. For example, a customer may simply reference transaction 123456 instead of using the store and date of the transaction. The descriptive elements of the transaction are maintained in the transaction metadata in the card companys database. Each transactions reference number provides a valuable identifier to help make the resolution process much faster for all transaction queries and any fraudulent charges. Card companies can track comprehensive information about a transaction by its reference number. With the reference number, the company can identify the merchant or seller, as well as the card terminal or terminal owner that was used to execute the transaction. If a card has been compromised or used for fraudulent purposes, card companies can void the charges by using the reference number in the pending phase. Types of Reference Numbers In some cases, customer service inquiries and calls may also generate a reference number. For example, if a customer calls to inquire about a product or service, the customer service representative may give that consumer a reference number to quote if they call back at a future date in order to complete the transaction. Reference numbers also provide operational transaction details for merchants. Merchants can use reference numbers to identify and track every transaction made by their business. Reference numbers may also be assigned to a credit card or loan application. The location of the reference number, in this case, varies depending on the issuer or provider. Typically, its at the end of an application form or provided in an email or letter from the company. Most reference numbers will be found at the top of the application submission form which shows up after submitting an application. Its also usually quoted at the top of a follow-up email or letter from the company. Many companies provide reference numbers for credit cards or loans, while some do not. A booking reference number is used by airlines, hotels, travel agents, and online travel companies. These unique codes are specific to an individual travel reservation. These codes are also called confirmation numbers and show up on airline tickets and hotel reservation systems. If a customer wishes to change or cancel a reservation, the booking reference number will help the customer service representative identify the reservation details in the system. What Is a UPS Reference Number? A United Parcel Service (UPS) reference number is also called a UPS pickup reference number. One or more parties to the shipment will use this series of characters or numbers to help UPS Freight correctly identify the shipment. The carrier can designate the reference number from various sources, including the return authorization number. What Is a FedEx Reference Number? While many customers will track a FedEx (FDX) package with a tracking number, a reference number provides an alternative way for customers to locate their packages. Examples of a FedEx reference number include a purchase order (PO) number, customer account number, invoice number, and bill of lading number. Having access to one or more of these numbers helps customers track the status of their shipment and verify delivery. What Is a Fed Reference Number? Banks use federal reference numbers to track wire transfers of money. The receipt for the wire transfer will include a section labeled "Fed Reference" or "Federal Reference." This is where you will find a unique series of numbers that you can use to investigate and track the electronic wire transfer from the initiating bank to the receiving bank. Daphne [ daf-nee ]/ df ni / New Word List Save This play casino slot machines online freeWord! [ daf-nee ]/ df ni /Save ThisWord! nounClassical Mythology. a nymph who, when pursued by Apollo, was saved by being changed into a laurel tree.(lowercase)Botany. any Eurasian shrub belonging to the genus Daphne, certain species of which, as D. mezereum, are cultivated for their fragrant flowers.a female given name. Words nearby Daphne How to use Daphne (2 of 2) Daphne/ (dfn) / nounGreek myth a nymph who was saved from the amorous attentions of Apollo by being changed into a laurel tree Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Question Daphne What Is a Safe Deposit Box?alberta online gambling A safe deposit box (or safety deposit box) is an individually secured containerusually a metal boxthat stays in the safe or vault of a federally insured bank or credit union. Safe deposit boxes are used to keep valuables, important documents, and sentimental keepsakes protected. Customers rely on the security of the building and vault to safeguard their contents. Key Takeaways: Safe deposit boxes are designed to withstand natural disasters such as fires, floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes. The only copy of an important document should never be stored in a safe deposit box. Safe deposit boxes are especially useful for people who are uncomfortable storing things in a digital environment. It is wise to have a co-lessor for a safe deposit box. How Safe Deposit Boxes Work When you rent a safe deposit box, the bank gives you a key to use, in tandem with a second guard key held by a bank employee, to access the box. If your bank uses a keyless system, you will scan your finger or hand instead. Either way, you will have to provide some type of identificationand your key, if its not a keyless systemevery time you visit the bank to access the box. An individual can rent a box in their name only, or they can add other people to the lease. Co-lessors on a safe deposit box will have equal access and rights to the contents of the box. For example, people who have an addiction, financial, marriage, and/or judgment issues may not be ideal candidates. Some institutions allow access to be set up so that both (or all) lessors must be present to open the safe deposit box. Experts recommend designating someone with power of attorney who can access the safe deposit box. Safe deposit boxes are a good place to keep your hard-to-replace documentssuch as contracts and business papers, military discharge papers, and physical stock and bond certificatesalong with small collectibles and family heirlooms. Keep in mind that the largest safe deposit boxes are usually just 10 inches by 10 inches and two feet deep. Good things to store in your safe deposit box are important items that you wont need frequent access to, including: Personal papers, such as original birth certificates, adoption papers, marriage licenses, and citizenship papers. Copiesbut not the only copiesof wills and powers of attorney. Military records and discharge papers (e.g., DD 214s). School transcripts and diplomas. Sensitive documents you would not want roommates, children, relatives, and visitors to stumble across. The deed to your house, along with any car titles. Paper stock and bond certificates (including U.S. savings bonds), if you have any (most are issued electronically these days). An inventory of your homes contents in case you need to file a claim with your homeowners insurance policy. Important business papers and records. Important contracts. Hard drives and flash drives with backups and important data. Financially and/or sentimentally valuable jewelry, collectibles (such as coin or stamp collections), and family keepsakes. Other documents or small items that would be difficult or impossible to replace. Safe deposit boxes cant be accessed 24/7, so its best not to put anything in them that might be needed in a hurry. Advantages and Disadvantages of a Safe Deposit Box Safe deposit boxes are undoubtedly more secure than most peoples homes. Bank vaults, of course, are harder to break into and are located in secure areas with alarms, video cameras, and top-notch locks. Theyre also reinforced to withstand fire, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, and other natural disasters. Although safe deposit boxes are designed to withstand natural disasters, its a good idea to put anything that could be damaged by water in a waterproof container, such as a zippered plastic bag, to add another layer of protection. Its best to store items in a safe deposit box that wont be needed in an emergency. Passports, medical directives, the only copies of wills, and powers of attorney, among other documents, are better kept in a secure spot, such as a fireproof home safe. Youre better off keeping the following items out of your safe deposit box: Passports Only copies of living wills, advanced medical directives, and durable powers of attorney Valuables you have not insured Cash Anything illegal The contents of a safe deposit box are not insured in the same way as a bank or credit union deposits. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insures cash deposits up to a certain limit but, due to the fact that there is no way to verify the contents of a safe deposit box, banks will not insure their contents. Also, if heirs are not told about the location of the drawer, upon non-payment the box is considered abandoned, and its contents are turned over to the states unclaimed-property offices for auction. Special Considerations Safe deposit boxes have been offered by banks for some 150 yearswith various other types of safekeeping offered long before that. However, fewer people today are renting safe deposit boxes, opting instead for digital storage and home safes. This can make it easier to find an available boxor more difficult if your bank no longer offers them. Betty Riess, a Bank of America spokeswoman, said demand for boxes has dropped significantly, especially among younger customers who are more likely to rely on digital storage. According to Riess, fewer than half of her companys safe deposit boxes are rented. Some banks now offer the boxes for free depending on the type of account and your balance. What Are Mortgage Servicing Rights (MSR)?druckgluck live chat Mortgage servicing rights (MSR) refer to a contractual agreement in which the right to service an existing mortgage is sold by the original mortgage lender to another party that specializes in the various functions involved with servicing mortgages. Key Takeaways Mortgage servicing rights are sold by the originator of a mortgage to another financial institution, which then takes over the administration of the mortgage, which includes such tasks as collecting payments and forwarding them to the originator. The original lender pays the servicer a fee for performing this work. Nothing changes for the mortgagor except the address to which payments are sent. Understanding Mortgage Servicing Rights (MSR) MSRs have ongoing administrative duties that are regularly processed for the entire length of a mortgage. Common rights included are the right to collect mortgage payments monthly, set aside taxes and insurance premiums in escrow, and forward the interest and principal portions to the mortgage lender. In return the servicer is compensated with a specific fee, which is outlined in the contract that has been established and entered into at the beginning of the servicing agreement. The mortgage payment amount, interest rate, type of loan, and other factors remain the same. As far as the borrower is concerned, only the address to which payments are sent is changed, and you should contact the servicer, rather than your original mortgage lender, with any questions you may have regarding your loan. Your servicer can change at any time, but you should receive notice from your original lender at least 15 days before it happens, and your new servicer should notify you within 15 days of assuming rights as well. Federal banking laws let financial institutions sell mortgages or transfer servicing rights to other institutions without consumer consent. Example of Selling an MSR Sarah takes out a $500,000 mortgage from Lender A. She sends the lender a monthly payment of principal and interest. Three years later Lender A decides to transfer its MSR on Sarahs mortgage to Company B. Under the terms of the contract, Company B is paid a fee by Lender A for processing all of Sarahs remaining mortgage payments. The mortgage lender can then spend more time and money providing new mortgages while the company assuming the MSR forwards the mortgage payments to the lender. Special Considerations A lender will often sell MSRs as a means of freeing up lines of credit for lending money to additional borrowers. The majority of mortgages are in effect for 15 to 30 years, and the bank needs billions of dollars to lend money to other consumers requesting mortgages during this time. In a roundabout way, selling MSRs means that more people can become homeowners, because the sale of these rights produces revenue. Lenders also make money by charging fees for originating mortgages and earning monthly interest from payments. Mortgages are simply additional assets that bring in more revenue for banks. History of MSRs The market for MSRs was strong in recent years due to an improving economy, higher quality mortgage originations, and fewer defaults. Hedge funds, banks, and real estate investment trusts (REITs) find these assets attractive because MSRs can yield high amounts of interest. For example, SunTrust purchased $8 billion in MSRs in the first quarter of 2016 as a means of earning a solid return on investment (ROI), and within months its MSR portfolio contained $1.123 billion in unpaid principal balances of loans that the bank was servicing for lenders. National Mortgage News reported in June 2019 that MSRs "have been one of the best-performing fixed-income asset classes over the past five years." However, it also reported that "since October 2018, as medium- and long-term interest rates have fallen, projected and actual mortgage prepayment assumptions have accelerated, causing the expected average life of MSRs to shorten considerably." This has resulted in the fact that "MSR values from April to May were down consistently (by a half) multiple." That said, reports National Mortgage News, "the demand from MSR buyers is still very strong, and there is general consensus around MSR values." What Is an Appropriation?plo poker rules Appropriation is when money is set aside for a specific purpose. A company or a government appropriates funds in order to delegate cash for the necessities of its operations. Appropriations for the U.S. federal government are decided by Congress through various committees. A company might appropriate money for short-term or long-term needs that include employee salaries, research and development, and dividends. Key Takeaways Appropriation is the act of setting aside money for a specific purpose. A company or a government appropriates money in its budget-making processes. In the U.S., appropriations for the federal government are earmarked by congress. What Does an Appropriation Tell You? Appropriations tell us how money or capital is being allocated whether it's through the federal government's budget or a company's use of cash and capital. Appropriations by governments are made for federal funds each year for various programs. Appropriations for companies may also be known as capital allocation. Appropriation could also refer to setting apart land or buildings for public use such as for public buildings or parks. Appropriation can also refer to when the government claims private property through eminent domain. Federal Appropriations In the United States, appropriations bills for the federal government's spending are passed by U.S. Congress. The government's fiscal year runs from October 1 through September 30 of each calendar year. Each fiscal year, the U.S. President submits a budget proposal to Congress. Budget committees in the U.S. House and Senate, then determine how the discretionary portion of the budget will be spent through a budget resolution process. The process yields an allocation of an amount of money that is assigned to the various appropriations committees. The House and Senate appropriations committees divide the money up between the various subcommittees that represent the departments that'll receive the money. Some of the departments include the following: Department of Agriculture Department of Defense Department of Energy Department of Commerce Department of Labor Department of Transportation Federal programs such as Social Security and Medicare fall under the mandatory expenditures category and receive funding through an automatic formula rather than through the appropriations process. Congress also passes supplemental appropriations bills for instances when special funding is needed for natural disasters and other emergencies. For example, in December 2014, Congress approved the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015. The act approved $5.2 billion to fight the Ebola virus in West Africa and for domestic emergency responses to the disease. The act also allocated funding for controlling the virus and developing treatments for the disease. Appropriations in Business Corporate appropriations refer to how a company allocates its funds and can include share buybacks, dividends, paying down debt, and purchases of fixed assets. Fixed assets are property, plant, and equipment. In short, how a company allocates capital spending is important to investors and the long-term growth prospects of the company. How a company appropriates money or invests its cash is monitored closely by market participants. Investors watch to determine whether a company is using its cash effectively to build shareholder value or whether the company is engaged in frivolous use of its cash, which can lead to the destruction of shareholder value. Monitoring Corporate Appropriations Investors monitor corporate appropriations of cash by analyzing a company's cash flow statement. The cash flow statement (CFS) measures how well a company manages its cash position, meaning how well the company generates cash to pay its debt obligations and fund its operating expenses. The cash flow of a company is divided into three activities or behavior: Operating activitieson the cash flow statement include any sources and uses of cash from business activities such as cash generated from a company's products or services. Investing activitiesinclude any sources and uses of cash from a company's investments such as a purchase or sale of an asset. Cash from financing activitiesincludes the sources of cash from investors or banks, as well as the uses of cash paid to shareholders. The payment of dividends, the payments for stock repurchases, and the repayment of debt principal (loans) are included in this category. Example of Company Appropriations Below is the cash flow statement for Exxon Mobil Corporation (XOM) from Sept 30, 2018, as reported in its 10Q filing. The cash flow statement shows how the executive management of Exxon appropriated the company's cash and profits: Under the investing activities section (highlighted in red), $13.48 billion was allocated to purchase fixed assets or property, plant, and equipment. Under the financing activities section (highlighted in green), cash was allocated to pay down short-term debt in the amount of $4.279 billion. Also under financing activities, dividends were paid to shareholders (highlighted in blue), which totaled $10.296 billion. Exxon Mobil cash flow statement 09-30-2018. Investopedia Whether Exxon's use of cash is effective or not is up to investors and analysts to debate since evaluating the process of appropriating cash is highly subjective. Some investors might want more money allocated to dividends while other investors might want Exxon to allocate money towards investing in the future of the company by purchasing and upgrading equipment. Appropriations vs. Appropriated Retained Earnings Appropriated retained earnings are retained earnings (RE) that are specified by the board of directors for a particular use. Retained earnings are the amount of profit left over after a company has paid out dividends. Retained earnings accumulate over time similar to a savings account whereby the funds are used at a later date. Appropriated retained earnings can be used for many purposes, including acquisitions, debt reduction, stock buybacks, and R&D. There may be more than one appropriated retained earnings accounts simultaneously. Typically, appropriated retained earnings are used only to indicate to outsiders the intention of management to use the funds for some purpose. Appropriation is the use of cash by a company showing how money is allocated and appropriated retained earnings outlines the specific use of that cash by the board of directors. Limitations of an Appropriation For investors, the cash flow statement reflects a company's financial health since typically the more cash that's available for business operations, the better. However, there are limitations to analyzing how money is spent. An investor won't know if the purchase of a fixed asset, for example, is a good decision until the company begins to generate revenue from the asset. As a result, the investor can only infer whether the management is effectively deploying or appropriating its funds properly. Sometimes a negative cash flow results from a company's growth strategy in the form of expanding its operations. By studying how a company allocates its spending and uses its cash, an investor can get a clear picture of how much cash a company generates and gain a solid understanding of the financial well being of a company. What Is the Retention Ratio?cloudbet registration The retention ratio is the proportion of earnings kept back in the business as retained earnings. The retention ratio refers to the percentage of net income that is retained to grow the business, rather than being paid out as dividends. It is the opposite of the payout ratio, which measures the percentage of profit paid out to shareholders as dividends. The retention ratio is also called the plowback ratio. Key Takeaways The retention ratio is the portion of earnings kept back in a firm to grow the business as opposed to being paid out as dividends to shareholders. The payout ratio is the opposite of the retention ratio which measures the percentage of profits paid out as dividends to shareholders. After dividends have been paid out, the amount of profit left over is known as retained earnings. The retention ratio helps investors determine how much money a company is keeping to reinvest in the company's operations. Growing companies typically have high retention ratios as they are investing earnings back into the company to grow rapidly. Dividend Ratios: Payout And Retention Understanding the Retention Ratio 1:50 Companies that make a profit at the end of a fiscal period can use the funds for a number of purposes. The company's management can pay the profit to shareholders as dividends, they can retain it to reinvest in the business for growth, or they can do some combination of both. The portion of the profit that a company chooses to retain or save for later use is called retained earnings. Retained earnings is the amount of net income left over for the business after it has paid out dividends to its shareholders. A business generates earnings that can be positive (profits) or negative (losses). Retained earnings are similar to a savings account because it's the cumulative collection of profit that's retained or not paid out to shareholders. Profit can also be reinvested back into the company for growth purposes. The retention ratio helps investors determine how much money a company is keeping to reinvest in the company's operation. If a company pays all of its retained earnings out as dividends or does not reinvest back into the business, earnings growth might suffer. Also, a company that is not using its retained earnings effectively has an increased likelihood of taking on additional debt or issuing new equity shares to finance growth. As a result, the retention ratio helps investors determine a company's reinvestment rate. However, companies that hoard too much profit might not be using their cash effectively and might be better off had the money been invested in new equipment, technology, or expanding product lines. New companies typically don't pay dividends since they're still growing and need the capital to finance growth. However, established companies usually pay a portion of their retained earnings out as dividends while also reinvesting a portion back into the company. How to Calculate the Retention Ratio The formulas for the retention ratio are Retention Ratio = Retained Earnings Net Income \begin{ aligned} \text{ Retention Ratio}=\frac{ \text{ Retained Earnings}}{ \text{ Net Income}} \end{ aligned} Retention Ratio=Net IncomeRetained Earnings or the alternative formula is: Retention Ratio = Net Income Dividends Distributed Net Income \begin{ aligned} \text{ Retention Ratio}=\frac{ \text{ Net Income} -\text{ Dividends Distributed}}{ \text{ Net Income}}\\ \end{ aligned} Retention Ratio=Net IncomeNet Income Dividends Distributed There are two ways to calculate the retention ratio. The first formula involves locating retained earnings in the shareholders' equity section of the balance sheet. Obtain the company's net income figure listed at the bottom of its income statement. Divide the company's retained earnings by the net income figure. The alternative formula does not use retained earnings but instead subtracts dividends distributed from net income and divides the result by net income. Special Considerations The retention ratio is typically higher for growth companies that are experiencing rapid increases in revenues and profits. A growth company would prefer to plow earnings back into its business if it believes that it can reward its shareholders by increasing revenues and profits at a faster pace than shareholders could achieve by investing their dividend receipts. Investors may be willing to forego dividends if a company has high growth prospects, which is typically the case with companies in sectors such as technology and biotechnology. The retention rate for technology companies in a relatively early stage of development is generally 100%, as they seldom pay dividends. But in mature sectors such as utilities and telecommunications, where investors expect a reasonable dividend, the retention ratio is typically quite low because of the high dividend payout ratio. The retention ratio may change from one year to the next, depending on the companys earnings volatility and dividend payment policy. Many blue chip companies have a policy of paying steadily increasing or, at least, stable dividends. Companies in defensive sectors such as pharmaceuticals and consumer staples are likely to have more stable payout and retention ratios than energy and commodity companies, whose earnings are more cyclical. Limitations of Using the Retention Ratio A limitation of the retention ratio is that companies that have a significant amount of retained earnings will likely have a high retention ratio, but that doesn't necessarily mean the company is investing those funds back into the company. Also, a retention ratio doesn't calculate how the funds are invested or if any investment back into the company was done effectively. It's best to utilize the retention ratio along with other financial metrics to determine how well a company is deploying its retained earnings into investments. As with any financial ratio, it's also important to compare the results with companies in the same industry as well as monitor the ratio over several quarters to determine if there's any trend. Real World Example Below is a copy of the balance sheet for Meta (META), formerly Facebook, as reported in the company's annual 10-K, which was filed on Jan. 31, 2019. In the shareholders' equity section, the company's retained earnings totaled $41.981 billion for the period (highlighted in green). From the company's income statement (not shown) it posted a profit or net income of $22.112 billion for the same period. Calculate its retention ratio by the following: $41.981 billion / $22.112 billion, which equals 1.89 or 189%. The reason the retention ratio is so high is that the tech company has accumulated profit and didn't pay dividends. As a result, the company had plenty of retained earnings to invest in the company's future. A high retention ratio is very common for technology companies. What Is a Mortgage Recast?fitting a bath mixer tap A mortgage recast, also called a loan recast, is a feature of some types of mortgages where remaining monthly payments are recalculated based on a new amortization schedule. During a mortgage recast, the borrower pays a large sum toward their principal, and their mortgage is then recalculated based on the new, lower balance outstanding. Some mortgages have a scheduled recast date, which is the date when the lender will calculate a new amortization schedule based on the mortgage's remaining principal balance and term. Key Takeaways A recast occurs when a borrower pays a large sum toward their mortgage's principal, and the lender recalculates the loan based on the new balance. When the lender recalculates the loan, they will create a new amortization schedule, which is a table of loan payments showing the principal and interest that comprises each payment until the loan is paid in full. The main benefit to the borrower of recasting a mortgage is the opportunity to reduce monthly payments. Negative amortization loans or option adjustable-rate mortgages (option ARM) frequently have a mortgage recast clause as part of the loan contract. How a Mortgage Recast Works For the borrower, the primary benefit of recasting a mortgage is to reduce monthly payments. Often, a mortgage lender will simply reduce the term of a loan if extra principal payments are made, but maintain the same fixed monthly amount duesimply by increasing the principal amount and reducing the interest portion of the payment. Recasting can lower the amount of interest the borrower will pay over the life of the loan if a sufficiently large principal payment is made, reducing both the interest and principal remaining on the loan's new monthly payments. Mortgage Recast vs. Refinancing A mortgage recast can be a more comfortable option than refinancing. With a refinance, you replace your current mortgage with a new mortgage loan, which can be costly and depends on your credit standing. A mortgage recast does not involve a credit check and continues with the original mortgage. On the other hand, refinancing a mortgage means paying off the existing loan and replacing it with a new one. Reasons why homeowners refinance include: The opportunity to obtain a lower interest rate. To shorten the term of their mortgage. The desire to convert from an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) to a fixed-rate mortgage or vice versa. An opportunity to tap into a home's equity to finance a large purchase. To consolidate debt. Unlike refinancing a mortgage, recasting a mortgage will not lower the interest rate on your mortgage. Types of Mortgages That May Be Recast Negative Amortization Loans Mortgage recasting can be written into the loan terms and is associated with a negative amortization loan. A negatively amortizing loan has a payment structure that allows for a scheduled payment that is less than the loan's interest charge. When a payment is less than the interest charge at the time, it creates deferred interest. The amount of deferred interest created is added to the principal balance of the loan, leading to a situation where the principal owed increases over time instead of decreasing. Due to this increasing principal, negative amortization mortgages require that the loan is recast at some point so that it will be paid off by the end of its scheduled term. Negative amortization mortgages also sometimes have triggers that might cause an unscheduled recast to occur. This may kick in, for example, if the principal balance of the loan reaches a set limit through negative amortization. Option Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (Option ARM) Negative amortization mortgages are also known as payment option adjustable-rate mortgages (Option ARM). These mortgages give borrowers options that include paying all of the principal and interest or paying only some of the interest. While the choices available with an option ARM allow for more flexibility on payments, the borrower could easily end up with more long-term debt than before. As with other adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs), there is the possibility of interest rates changing drastically and rapidly based on the market. Example of a Mortgage Recast Even if a mortgage does not have a recast option included, you can approach your lender to see if a mortgage recast will benefit you and lower your monthly payments. By paying a lump sum and recasting your mortgage, you can reduce your housing costs. By contrast, if you submit a lump sum without recasting, you lower your balance but your monthly payments will remain the same. Let's say you have a $500,000, 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with a 4% interest rate. Your combined interest and principal payment would be around $2,400 per month in terms of principal and interest. After tend years, you receive a windfall lump sum of $375,000. If you decided to use that lump sum to pay down the mortgage without recasting it, you would continue to pay around $2,400 a month, but the length of the loan would become shorter as you are effectively paying down additional principal. If, on the other hand, you recast the loan over the remaining 25 years of the mortgage, the monthly payment would go down to around $900 per month in terms of principal and interest. CorrectionApril 13, 2022:A prior version of this article incorrectly calculated the recast monthly mortgage payment amount in the example. What Were Trust Preferred Securities (TruPS)?small blind chip best casino crypto Trust preferred securities (TruPS) were hybrid securities issued by large banks and bank holding companies (BHCs) included in regulatory tier 1 capital and whose dividend payments were tax deductible for the issuer. The bank would open a trust funded with debt; then, the bank would carve up shares of the trust and sold them to investors in the form of preferred stock. The resulting stock was called a trust preferred security or TruPS. First issued in 1996, TruPS became the subject of increased regulatory scrutiny following the 2008-09 financial crisis. As a result of the Dodd-Frank reforms and the Volcker Rule, most of these were phased out at year-end 2015. Key Takeaways Trust preferred securities were a type of bank-issued security with characteristics of both debt and stock. They have largely been phased out by legal and regulatory action following the 2008-09 financial crisis. Issued by banks or bank holding companies by issuing debt, TruPS are shares of preferred stock of a trust. The trust preferred security usually offers a higher periodic payment than preferred stock and can have a maturity of up to 30 years. A disadvantage of TruPS for the issuer is the cost, as investors demand higher returns for investments with provisions like deferral of interest payments or early redemption. Understanding Trust Preferred Securities (TruPS) The trust preferred security has characteristics of both stock and debt. While the trust is funded with debt, the shares issued are considered to be preferred stock and even pay dividends like preferred stock. However, since the trust holds the bank's debt as the funding vehicle, the payments the investors receive are actually interest payments and are taxed as such by the IRS. The trust preferred security usually offers a higher periodic payment than a share of preferred stock and can have a maturity of up to 30 years due to the long maturity timeline of the debt used to fund the trust. The payments to stockholders can be on a fixed schedule or variable. In addition, some of the provisions in trust preferred securities can allow for the deferral of interest payments for up to five years. The TruPS matures at face value at the end of the term, but there is the potential for early redemption if the issuer so chooses. Trust preferred securities have been created by companies for their favorable accounting treatments and flexibility. Specifically, these securities are taxed like debt obligations by the Internal Revenue Service while maintaining the appearance of equities in a company's accounting statements, according to GAAP procedures. The issuing bank pays tax-deductible interest payments into the trust, which is then distributed to the trust's shareholders. It is an important distinction that, when buying a trust preferred security, the investor is buying a portion of the trust and its underlying holdings, not a piece of ownership in the bank itself. Special Considerations The Dodd-Frank financial reform act, passed in 2010, included a section that called for the phase-out of Tier 1 capital treatment of trust preferred securities issued by institutions with over $15 billion in assets by 2013. Tier 1 capital treatment means that banks can use the money invested in their trust preferred securities to count towards their Tier 1 capital ratio, which is the money banks keep on hand to cover losses sustained due to bad debt. Phasing out or excluding trust preferred securities in the Tier 1 capital ratio increases funding requirements for banks and, in some cases, reducing the number of incentives for banks to issue trust preferred securities. The so-called Collins Amendment was proposed in the U.S. Senate to eliminate trust preferred securities as Tier 1 regulatory capital altogether. Finally, the costs are among the disadvantages for companies issuing trust preferred securities because the trusts sometimes have features like deferral of interest payments and early redemption of shares. These nuances make them less attractive to investors and, therefore, the rates on trust preferred securities are typically higher than those offered on other types of debt, simply investors demand a greater rate of return. The costs of investment banking fees for underwriting the securities can be hefty as well. Danzig [ dan-sig; German dahn-tsik ]/ dn sg; German dn tsk / New Word List Save This paradise 8 casino sterling yan oddsWord! [ dan-sig; German dahn-tsik ]/ dn sg; German dn tsk /Save ThisWord! nounGerman name of Gdansk. Free City of, a former self-governing territory including the seaport of Danzig: constituted by the treaty of Versailles 1920; a part of Germany 193945; now in Poland. 754 sq. mi. (1,955 sq. km).Gulf of, an inlet of the Baltic Sea, in N Poland. About 60 miles (95 km) wide. Words nearby Danzig How to use Danzig Danzig/ (dns, German dantsc) / nounthe German name for Gdanska rare variety of domestic fancy pigeon originating in this area Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!QuestionDanube River, Danubian, Danvers, Danville, Danzi, Danzig, dap, Daphne, Daphnephoria, Daphnia, DaphnisDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 The words accept and except really dont have much in common other than their pronunciations. Unlike other words that share similar pronunciationssay affect/effectaccept vs. except really are two distinct and separate words. This makes it all the more important that you keep these two words separate from each other in your writing because they have very different meanings and confusing the two can lead to sloppy writing. In this post, I want to go over the definitions of both of these words, how to tell them apart, and give you a few tricks so you can remember the difference. When to Use Accept Accept is a verb that has a number of various meanings but its most common ones are to receive or take (something offered), to take (something) as payment, and to be able or designed to take or hold (something). For example, After being offered a promotion, he accepted the job. This restaurant does not accept checks. This type of wood will not accept oil paints. Accept has a few other meanings, including, to regard as proper (The custom was widely accepted.), to regard as true (The scientists now accept the theory.), and to give admittance to or approval to (She was accepted as part of the group.). When to Use Except Except, just like accept, has a few different meanings to its name. Except can mean with the exclusion of, other than; if it were not for the fact; and to leave out or exclude. Except is most commonly used as a preposition, but it can also be used as a conjunction and, on rare occasions, as a verb. Below you will see examples of all three. Were all going to the movies tonight, except Jamie. (Preposition) I wish I could drive a nicer car, except that I cannot afford it. (Conjunction) The outliers were excepted from the sampling statistic. (Verb) Even though you can use except as a verb, its probably best to avoid it. It is used so infrequently as a verb that it will probably serve to confuse your readers more than anything else. Tricks to Remember If you are ever stuck as to which of these two words, there are a few good ways to keep them apart from each other. You can remember that Accept means to receive by remembering that you Accept Awards. Both of these start with As and to Accept an Award is to receive it. You can remember that Except means with exclusion of, to exclude because it has an X in it and you exclude someone that you dont like. Quiz and Sentence Examples It looks like everyone got an invitation ______ me. The president acknowledged his mistake and ______ responsibility. Our stores are open every day ______ Sundays. They never once made a remark ______ to complain. I gladly ______ his apology and we moved forward. Display the answers below. Summary These two words are very different in their meanings so its important to keep them separated. Accept is a verb and means to receive or take. Except is a preposition, conjunction, and verb and means with the exclusion of, otherwise than, or to exclude. Answers My understanding was that according to most Christian beliefs, being trans or gay was a sin, cut and dry. Has L.A. figured out how to stop the epidemic it set loose on the world? As of Thursday night, the brothers remained on the loose, last seen in northern France. In this cockamamie get-rich scheme, would they all issue an apology if he cut a check? Crew members had to cut through the ice on the streets to get shots. Speed Read: The Juiciest Bits From the History of Purple Rain|Jennie Yabroff|January 1, 2015|DAILY BEAST If the "Y" Beach lot press their advantage they may cut off the enemy troops on the toe of the Peninsula. Gallipoli Diary, Volume I|Ian Hamilton Sol laughed out of his whiskers, with a big, loose-rolling sound, and sat on the porch without waiting to be asked. The Bondboy|George W. (George Washington) Ogden She was holding the back of her chair with one hand; her loose sleeve had slipped almost to the shoulder of her uplifted arm. The Awakening and Selected Short Stories|Kate Chopin At the reserve bank they may borrow as a standing right and not as a favor which may be cut off. Readings in Money and Banking|Chester Arthur Phillips Thewildblaster no deposit bonus code International Trade Centre (ITC) said Tuesday that it has launched the Market Price Information portal, an online database giving access to live updates and prices for more than 100 agriculture products. The portal was launched with a view to improve transparency in trade and help improve the decision-making processes for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to export, said the ITC. The Market Price Information portal will also provide research and up-to-date agricultural commodities news. Access to real-time and sector-specific market price information will help strengthen the ability of MSMEs to make decisions and anticipate shifting trends in international markets, said ITC Executive Director Arancha Gonzalez. She said the Market Price Information portal will help them become more competitive, make it easier to connect to global markets, and enable them to grow their businesses. The portal has been developed in response to a growing need among MSMEs and small-scale farmers for access to up-to-date market information. In developing countries, in particular, access to such information is often scarce, unaffordable, inaccessible or out of date, said the ITC. By providing timely information on prices free of charge, the Market Price Information portal will better enable MSMEs and farmers to stay updated, make sound business decisions, and boost their competitiveness. The portal will help them become more competitive, make it easier to connect to global markets, and enable them to grow their businesses. The Geneva-based ITC is the joint agency of the World Trade Organization and the United Nations and it assists small and medium-sized enterprises in developing and transition economies to become more competitive in global markets. Intl Trade Center unveils Market Price Information portaladded by chinatimesonline on View all posts by chinatimesonline What Is Arc Elasticity?majestic star casino buffet Arc elasticity is the elasticity of one variable with respect to another between two given points. It is used when there is no general way to define the relationship between the two variables. Arc elasticity is also defined as the elasticity between two points on a curve. The concept is used in both economics and mathematics. In economics, is it commonly used to measure the changes between the quantity of goods demanded and their prices. Key Takeaways In the concept of arc elasticity, the elasticity of one variable is measured with respect to another between two given points. The concept is used in both economics and mathematics. It is commonly used to measure the changes between the quantity of goods demanded and their prices. Price (or point) elasticity of demand and arc elasticity of demand are two ways to calculate elasticity. Understanding Arc Elasticity In economics, arc elasticity is commonly used in relation to the law of demand to measure percentage changes between the quantity of goods demanded and prices. There are two possible ways of calculating elasticityprice (or point) elasticity of demand and arc elasticity of demand. Price elasticity of demand measures the responsiveness of quantity demanded to a price. It takes the elasticity of demand at a particular point on the demand curve, or between two points on the curve. Arc elasticity of demand uses a midpoint between the two points. Formula for Price (Point) Elasticity of Demand P E d = % Change in Qty % Change in Price PE_d = \dfrac{ \text{ \% Change in Qty}}{ \text{ \% Change in Price}} PEd=% Change in Price% Change in Qty How to Calculate the Price Elasticity of Demand If the price of a product decreases from $10 to $8, leading to an increase in quantity demanded from 40 to 60 units, then the price elasticity of demand can be calculated as: % change in quantity demanded = (Qd 2 Qd 1 ) / Qd 1 = (60 40) / 40 = 0.5 = (Qd Qd ) / Qd = (60 40) / 40 = 0.5 % change in price = (P 2 P 1 ) / P 1 = (8 10) / 10 = -0.2 = (P P ) / P = (8 10) / 10 = -0.2 Thus, PE d = 0.5 / -0.2 = 2.5 Since were concerned with the absolute values in price elasticity, the negative sign is ignored. You can conclude that the price elasticity of this good, when the price decreases from $10 to $8, is 2.5. Arc Elasticity of Demand One of the problems with the price elasticity of demand formula is that it gives different values depending on whether price rises or falls. If you were to use different start and end points in our example abovethat is, if you assume the price increased from $8 to $10and the quantity demanded decreased from 60 to 40, the Pe d will be: % change in quantity demanded = (40 60) / 60 = -0.33 = (40 60) / 60 = -0.33 % change in price = (10 8) / 8 = 0.25 = (10 8) / 8 = 0.25 PE d = -0.33 / 0.25 = 1.32, which is much different from 2.5 How to Calculate the Arc Elasticity of Demand To eliminate this problem, the arc elasticity of demand can be used. Arc elasticity of demand measures elasticity at the midpoint between two selected points on the demand curve by using a midpoint between the two points. The arc elasticity of demand can be calculated as: Arc E d = [(Qd 2 Qd 1 ) / midpoint Qd] [(P 2 P 1 ) / midpoint P] Lets calculate the arc elasticity following the example presented above: Midpoint Qd = (Qd 1 + Qd 2 ) / 2 = (40 + 60) / 2 = 50 = (Qd + Qd ) / 2 = (40 + 60) / 2 = 50 Midpoint Price = (P 1 + P 2 ) / 2 = (10 + 8) / 2 = 9 = (P + P ) / 2 = (10 + 8) / 2 = 9 % change in qty demanded = (60 40) / 50 = 0.4 = (60 40) / 50 = 0.4 % change in price = (8 10) / 9 = -0.22 = (8 10) / 9 = -0.22 Arc E d = 0.4 / -0.22 = 1.82 When you use arc elasticity of demand you do not need to worry about which point is the starting point and which point is the ending point since the arc elasticity gives the same value for elasticity whether prices rise or fall. Arc elasticity of demand is more useful than price elasticity of demand when there is a considerable change in price. What Is Elasticity in Economics? In the context of economics, elasticity is used to measure the change in the quantity demanded for a product in relation to its price movements. A product is considered to be elastic if the demand for it changes substantially when its price changes. What Is the Law of Demand? The law of demand is a fundamental economic concept. It states that when prices rise, the demand for a good or service will decrease. What Are the Benefits of Arc Elasticity of Demand? The formula for arc elasticity of demand measures elasticity between two selected points by using a midpoint between the two points. As a result, it is particularly useful when there is a substantial change in price. The Bottom Line Arc elasticity is commonly used in economics to determine the percentage of change between the demand for goods and their price. Elasticity can be calculated in two waysprice elasticity of demand and arc elasticity of demand. The latter is more useful when there is a significant change in price. A year before he had similarly arrived with news of the Boston Tea Party. A tense commute to work in Houston will start to resemble a tense commute in Boston or New York City. Elle magazine shot an editorial in September, one picture revealing a teacup pig sitting pretty by a mini Tyler Alexandra bag. Antoine himself had recently been arrested on a six-year-old warrant for a dime bag of weed. Edgar was invited to study at the Berkeley School of Music in Boston and at NYU in New York City. Cuban Hip-Hop Was Born in Alamar|Daniel Levin|December 26, 2014|DAILY BEAST Some weeks after, the creditor chanced to be in Boston, and in walking up Tremont street, encountered his enterprising friend. The Book of Anecdotes and Budget of Fun;|Various Thus far Boston banks have received more benefits from this bank than have the other banks in this district. Readings in Money and Banking|Chester Arthur Phillips Drone: the largest tube of a bag-pipe, giving forth a dull heavy tone. Gulliver's Travels|Jonathan Swift I shall only be away for six months; you know I have made up my mind to get rid of the whole bag of tricks. The Pit Town Coronet, Volume I (of 3)|Charles James Wills Flags at the Tian'anmen Square and atop the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.(Photo: Xinhua) Less than a week before the convening of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC),the date of the news conference regarding the congress was set on the coming Saturday, one day before the opening. The announcement of the date came one day after the press center for the Party congress opened on Monday.From being shrouded in secrecy to being open, transparent and actively engaging reporters from home and abroad to participate, observers hailed this trend, which is not only mirrored by the openness of the CPC but also reflects the Party's confidence and willingness to get more involved with the world.The spokesperson for the 20th CPC National Congress will hold a press conference in the Great Hall of the People on October 15, the Xinhua News Agency reported on Tuesday. Journalists can attend the conference at a sub-venue set up in the Century Hall on the third floor of Hotel Nikko New Century Beijing.On Monday, the website and social media accounts for the press center of the congress opened to facilitate the public's access to information about the big event.According to a registration form posted by the press center on Tuesday, foreign journalists need to submit applications before 10 am on Wednesday to attend the press conference and the opening ceremony. Due to COVID-19 prevention measures, they need to be quarantined in a designated hotel one day before the event, and a negative nucleic acid result obtained within 24 hours is needed.Three foreign reporters from Japan, Pakistan and Singapore reached by the Global Times on Tuesday said that they chose to register online for convenience and the press center of the congress also provides various channels for journalists to access information.Those channels include opening accounts on WeChat, Sina Weibo and Jinri Toutiao to inform journalists of the contents of the congress meetings, and delegates will take interviews not only on-site, but also in written form or online, according to the press center.A Japanese journalist who will cover this year's congress remotely from Tokyo told the Global Times on Tuesday on condition of anonymity that his personal expectation of the congress is that "it can clarify how the Party perceives the political, economic and social issues that China is currently facing, and present the path to solving these issues in an easy-to-understand manner."The number of reporters registered to report on the 20th National Congress has not been revealed as applications have just opened. Yet the 19th CPC National Congress, which convened in October 2017, witnessed a record-breaking number of reporters with 1,818 foreign correspondents and a total of 3,068 reporters registered for the event.The swarming of foreign reporters registered to report on China's national congresses in recent years not only tells of the world's growing interest in the CPC and China, but also demonstrates the Party's openness and confidence as it speaks out to the world about the Party's stories and elaborates on its policies, Zhang Shuhua, director of the institute of political sciences at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times.The initial meetings of the National Congress of the CPC were held out of the spotlight. It was only at the 7th National Congress of the CPC in 1945 that the Party published reports about the congress to the outside world. At the 12th National Congress of the CPC in 1982, Zhu Muzhi, then-deputy minister of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee and head of the International Communication Team of the CPC Central Committee, became the first spokesperson for a CPC national congress and presided over news conferences.Group discussions of delegates were gradually opened to foreign journalists starting with the 15th CPC National Congress in 1997. A total of 34 groups of delegates from the 17th CPC National Congress left more than half an hour for interviews from journalists. The reporters shot delegates with questions covering wide-ranging areas, including then much-watched anti-corruption issues, according to the Xinhua News Agency.The 20th National Congress of the CPC, which kicks off amid a complicated international atmosphere, is being closely watched as the policies of the Party are also closely linked with the future path of the world, and it is a "landmark" in the world political evolvement, Fan Peng, research fellow at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences' Institute of Political Sciences, told the Global Times.Fan said that the CPC has long emerged from the period where it talked only to itself. Being one of the largest political parties in the world and ruling the world's second-biggest economy, passing clear messages via the CPC national congress to the world not only quells doubts and unfounded criticism of the Party, but also helps international society form a correct understanding of what role the CPC and China will play in this ever-changing world. Elon Musk. Photo: website One day before the US midterm elections,Twitter's new owner, Elon Musk, encouraged independent-minded voters to vote for a Republican Congress. With politically normal, or some would like to say politically correct wordings, Musk seems to have turned the platform into the first of its kind to have taken off the non-partisan mask.On Monday local time, Musk tweeted, "To independent-minded voters: Shared power curbs the worst excesses of both parties, therefore I recommend voting for a Republican Congress, given that the Presidency is Democratic."Honestly speaking, such a remark is not dramatic in the US, a society of diversity and so-called freedom of speech. If this was tweeted by an ordinary American, it would hardly cause any strong response. But Musk and his appeal triggered a public opinion tsunami, questioning his motives behind the move. His background makes the difference - being the one in charge of Twitter, and being a public celebrity with influence.The timing gives observers enough reasons to dig. Musk made the call right before the elections, which could have a last-minute influence on median voters.The majority of American voters have an increasingly consolidated political stance. But the stance of median voters keeps swaying. Their choice could be different between one month ago and now. This is why US laws stimulate that political activities near polling places on election days are prohibited.But US laws do not restrict people raising voices on social media. Musk thus uses the Twitter platform to express his personal opinions, with a political stance of course. And this is a move that could partly supplant traditional ways of canvassing.There are some long standing traditional campaign approaches, such as political advertising and holding election rallies. However, with the change in the way of social communications and technological progress, election campaigns are also undergoing transforms. The most prominent change took place in 2008, when former US president Barack Obama secured a victory because he had better utilized social media. It was quite subversive at that time. And it is not a one-time change - since then, in every election, both parties and different candidates have learned from Obama's experience to attach greater importance to the use of social media.Musk, as the chief of a crucial social media platform, making a political appeal right before election day, will kick start another round of revolutionary approaches of canvassing. He may bring a subversive change to social media platforms. Before he bought Twitter and before Monday, US social media platforms were, on the surface, self-proclaimed to be non-partisan. But Twitter may mark a change of wind - social media is stepping on the old path of traditional media, and will speak out their clear political stance. It is to be observed whether Musk and Twitter will bring a decisive change in US political ecology, but they will certainly impact on the game between the Democratic and Republican Party.This last-minute soliciting of votes is also a way to test Twitter's influence on median voters, with commercial calculations. If the call proves to be influential enough, Twitter will become a vital stage for competition among different political forces in the future, which could, by that time, bring considerable advertising fees.Yet given an increasingly divided US political scene, median voters have been sharply shrinking. That being said, instead of saying that Musk is attempting to influence median voters, he may be actually draining the median voter base - by encouraging the voters to go to the republican camp.Musk said "shared power curbs the worst excesses of both parties." There is nothing wrong with this view. The problem is, be it shared power or checks and balances of power, they are no longer important in the US under the big picture of political polarization. The increasingly opposing public policy propositions of the two parties have brought more and more uncertainties to the direction of US development. It has intensified political infighting. Politicians do not focus on "shared power" any more, but on which political force has the upper hand.In the US, the real game is not simply between the White House and Capitol Hill, but between politicians and the public, between long-term interests and short-term ones.Fewer and fewer politicians eye on the needs of the times and long-term interests, but only pay close attention to the interests in elections and in their terms. This is what social media platforms should really call for a change.The article is compiled by Global Times reporter based on an interview with Yang Xiyu, a senior research fellow at the China Institute of International Studies. [email protected] 02:44 Last month,beating online roulette the Mexican government voted to eliminate daylight saving time. That means most parts of the country will remain on standard time from hereon out, and residents will not reset their clocks and spring forward next year. Officials say the new regulations are about health and safety and saving energy. For more, check out our exclusive content on cgtn now and subscribe to our weekly newsletter, the china report. Quantities and volumes can be confusing in English. Some nouns can be counted as individual items, while others cannot. There is a large amount of shade during the late evening, and there are several shades of orange and gold in the sky during these times. In this case, the same word is used for two different nouns. One of these nouns is countable, but the other is uncountable. You can count shades of the color red on a color chart. You could conceivably count shadows on the ground, but you cannot count the shade within those shadows. There are many of one, and there is much of the other. You can see why this confuses even experienced writers. What is the Difference Between Much and Many? In this article, I will compare much vs. many. I will demonstrate the proper use of each word with example sentences and explanation. Plus, at the end, I will reveal a useful trick to help you decide whether to use much or many in your own writing. When to Use Much What does much mean? Muchis also an adjective. It refers to a large amount of an uncountable noun. Examples of uncountable nouns (also called non-count nouns) include oxygen, sunlight, water, zoology, etc. The following sentences illustrate the proper use of the word much. I eat too much food, but dont get enough exercise. There is too much wind to have a bonfire tonight. There was too much oxygen in the chamber, and the fire burned out of control. Its going to be much cooler in the Denver metro area Thursday after a cold front from the north moved into the state early in the morning. The Denver Post Some nouns can function as either a countable or mass noun, depending on context. Fish is a good example. See the following sentence. We caught too many fish today, and we cooked too much fish for four people. The first time it is used, fish refers to the number of animals successfully caught. The second time, however, it refers to the amount of a food substance that has been prepared. In your own writing, you should pay careful attention to context when choosing muchor many, since some nouns can be quantifiable in some instances and unquantifiable in others. When to Use Many What does many mean? Manyis an adjective. It refers to a large number of countable nouns.Nouns that are countable include airplanes, dimensions of reality, fastballs, princesses, victories, etc. You can see proper ways of using manyin the sentences below. I eat snacks many times a day, but I never go to the gym. There were many King Louiss, but only one Marie Antoinette. There are too many mosquitos to have a bonfire tonight. Critics may also ask how many more jobs would have been created in Europe if the money generated in Europe had actually stayed in Europe. Business Insider Trick to Remember the Difference Here is a helpful tip to remember many vs. much in your writing. You can remember to use muchwith uncountable nouns since much contains a U, and the word unquantifiable starts with that letter. For nouns which you can describe using a specific number, choose many. Summary Is it many or much?Manyand muchare adjectives that describe the amount of something. Many is used for quantifiable nouns, like suns. Much is used for unquantifiable nouns, like sunlight. Some nouns can be both countable and uncountable, depending on context. Be mindful of how you use these nouns in your writing, because whether you choose many or much depends on how you use the noun in question. If you can count a specific number of the noun, use many. If you cant use a number to describe the noun, choose muchinstead. Since much and unquantifiable both contain the letter U, its easy to remember when to use much. What Is a Letter of Credit?casino result A letter of credit, or a credit letter, is a letter from a bank guaranteeing that a buyers payment to a seller will be received on time and for the correct amount. If the buyer is unable to make a payment on the purchase, the bank will be required to cover the full or remaining amount of the purchase. It may be offered as a facility. Due to the nature of international dealings, including factors such as distance, differing laws in each country, and difficulty in knowing each party personally, the use of letters of credit has become a very important aspect of international trade. Key Takeaways A letter of credit is a document sent from a bank or financial institute that guarantees that a seller will receive a buyers payment on time and for the full amount. Letters of credit are often used within the international trade industry. There are many different letters of credit including one called a revolving letter of credit. Banks collect a fee for issuing a letter of credit. What Is A Credit Reference? How a Letter of Credit Works 1:17 Buyers of major purchases may need a letter of credit to assure the seller that the payment will be made. A bank issues a letter of credit to guarantee the payment to the seller, essentially taking responsibility that the seller will be paid. A buyer must prove to the bank that they have enough assets or a sufficient line of credit to pay before the bank will guarantee the payment to the seller. Banks typically require a pledge of securities or cash as collateral for issuing a letter of credit. Because a letter of credit is typically a negotiable instrument, the issuing bank pays the beneficiary or any bank nominated by the beneficiary. If a letter of credit is transferable, the beneficiary may assign another entity, such as a corporate parent or a third party, the right to draw. The International Chamber of Commerces Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits oversees letters of credit used in international transactions. How Much a Letter of Credit Costs Banks will usually charge a fee for a letter of credit, which can be a percentage of the total credit that they are backing. The cost of a letter of credit will vary by bank and the size of the letter of credit. For example, they may charge 0.75% of the amount that they are guaranteeing. Types of Letters of Credit The types of letters of credit include a commercial letter of credit, revolving letter of credit, travelers letter of credit, and confirmed letter of credit. Commercial Letter of Credit This is a direct payment method in which the issuing bank makes the payments to the beneficiary. In contrast, a standby letter of credit is a secondary payment method in which the bank pays the beneficiary only when the holder cannot. Revolving Letter of Credit This kind of letter allows a customer to make any number of draws within a certain limit during a specific time period. Travelers Letter of Credit For those going abroad, this letter will guarantee that issuing banks will honor drafts made at certain foreign banks. Confirmed Letter of Credit A confirmed letter of credit involves a bank other than the issuing bank guaranteeing the letter of credit. The second bank is the confirming bank, typically the sellers bank. The confirming bank ensures payment under the letter of credit if the holder and the issuing bank default. The issuing bank in international transactions typically requests this arrangement. Example of a Letter of Credit Citibank offers letters of credit for buyers in Latin America, Africa, Eastern Europe, Asia, and the Middle East who may have difficulty obtaining international credit on their own. Citibanks letters of credit help exporters minimize the importers country risk and the issuing banks commercial credit risk. Letters of credit are typically provided within two business days, guaranteeing payment by the confirming Citibank branch. This benefit is especially valuable when a client is located in a potentially unstable economic environment. Advantages and Disadvantages of a Letter of Credit Obtaining letters of credit may be necessary in certain situations. However, like anything else related to banking, trade, and business there are some pros and cons to acknowledge. Advantages and Disadvantages of a Letter of Credit Can create security and build mutual trust for buyers and sellers in trade transactions. Makes it easier to define the specifics of when and how transactions are to be completed between involved parties. Letters of credit can be personalized with terms that are tailored to the circumstances of each transaction. Can make the transfer of funds more efficient and streamlined. Buyers typically bear the costs of obtaining a letter of credit. Letters of credit may not cover every detail of the transaction, potentially leaving room for error. Establishing a letter of credit may be tedious or time-consuming for all parties involved. The terms of a letter of credit may not account for unexpected changes in the political or economic landscape. How does a letter of credit work? AdvantagesDisadvantages Often in international trade, a letter of credit is used to signify that a payment will be made to the seller on time, and in full, as guaranteed by a bank or financial institution. After sending a letter of credit, the bank will charge a fee, typically a percentage of the letter of credit, in addition to requiring collateral from the buyer. Among the various forms of letters of credit are a revolving letter of credit, a commercial letter of credit, and a confirmed letter of credit. What is an example of a letter of credit? Consider an exporter in an unstable economic climate, where credit may be more difficult to obtain. Bank of America would offer this buyer a letter of credit, available within two business days, in which the purchase would be guaranteed by a Bank of America branch. Because the bank and the exporter have an existing relationship, the bank is knowledgeable of the buyers creditworthiness, assets, and financial status. What is the difference between a commercial letter of credit and a revolving letter of credit? As one of the most common forms of letters of credit, commercial letters of credit are when the bank makes payment directly to the beneficiary or seller. Revolving letters of credit, by contrast, can be used for multiple payments within a specific time frame. Typically, these are used for businesses that have an ongoing relationship, with the time limit of the arrangement usually spanning one year. The Bottom Line Letters of credit can play an important part in trade transactions. There are different types of letters of credit that may be used, depending on the circumstances. If you need to obtain a letter of credit for a business transaction, your current bank may be the best place to begin your search. You may, however, need to expand the net wider to include larger banks if you maintain accounts at a smaller financial institution. Facebook Facebook Twitter Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College Phosphorylation is the chemical addition of a phosphoryl group (PO 3 -) to an organic molecule. The removal of a phosphoryl group is called dephosphorylation. Both phosphorylation and dephosphorylation are carried out by enzymes (e.g., kinases, phosphotransferases). Phosphorylation is important in the fields of biochemistry and molecular biology because it's a key reaction in protein and enzyme function, sugar metabolism, and energy storage and release. Purposes of Phosphorylation Phosphorylation plays a critical regulatory role in cells. Its functions include: Important for glycolysis Used for protein-protein interaction Used in protein degradation Regulates enzyme inhibition Maintains homeostasis by regulating energy-requiring chemical reactions Types of Phosphorylation Many types of molecules can undergo phosphorylation and dephosphorylation. Three of the most important types of phosphorylation are glucose phosphorylation, protein phosphorylation, and oxidative phosphorylation. Glucose Phosphorylation Glucose and other sugars are often phosphorylated as the first step of their catabolism. For example, the first step of glycolysis of D-glucose is its conversion into D-glucose-6-phosphate. Glucose is a small molecule that readily permeates cells. Phosphorylation forms a larger molecule that can't easily enter tissue. So, phosphorylation is critical for regulating blood glucose concentration. Glucose concentration, in turn, is directly related to glycogen formation. Glucose phosphorylation is also linked to cardiac growth. Protein Phosphorylation Phoebus Levene at the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research was the first to identify a phosphorylated protein (phosvitin) in 1906, but enzymatic phosphorylation of proteins wasn't described until the 1930s. Protein phosphorylation occurs when the phosphoryl group is added to an amino acid. Usually, the amino acid is serine, although phosphorylation also occurs on threonine and tyrosine in eukaryotes and histidine in prokaryotes. This is an esterification reaction where a phosphate group reacts with the hydroxyl (-OH) group of a serine, threonine, or tyrosine side chain. The enzyme protein kinase covalently binds a phosphate group to the amino acid. The precise mechanism differs somewhat between prokaryotes and eukaryotes. The best-studied forms of phosphorylation are posttranslational modifications (PTM), which means the proteins are phosphorylated after translation from an RNA template. The reverse reaction, dephosphorylation, is catalyzed by protein phosphatases. An important example of protein phosphorylation is the phosphorylation of histones. In eukaryotes, DNA is associated with histone proteins to form chromatin. Histone phosphorylation modifies the structure of chromatin and alters its protein-protein and DNA-protein interactions. Usually, phosphorylation occurs when DNA is damaged, opening up space around broken DNA so that repair mechanisms can do their work. In addition to its importance in DNA repair, protein phosphorylation plays a key role in metabolism and signaling pathways. Oxidative Phosphorylation Oxidative phosphorylation is how a cell stores and releases chemical energy. In a eukaryotic cell, the reactions occur within the mitochondria. Oxidative phosphorylation consists of the reactions of the electron transport chain and those of chemiosmosis. In summary, redox reaction pass electrons from proteins and other molecules along the electron transport chain in the inner membrane of the mitochondria, releasing energy that is used to make adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in chemiosmosis. In this process, NADH and FADH 2 deliver electrons to the electron transport chain. Electrons move from higher energy to lower energy as they progress along the chain, releasing energy along the way. Part of this energy goes to pumping hydrogen ions (H+) to form an electrochemical gradient. At the end of the chain, electrons are transferred to oxygen, which bond with H+to form water. H+ions supply the energy for ATP synthase to synthesize ATP. When ATP is dephosphorylated, cleaving the phosphate group releases energy in a form the cell can use. Adenosine is not the only base that undergoes phosphorylation to form AMP, ADP, and ATP. For example, guanosine may also form GMP, GDP, and GTP. Detecting Phosphorylation Whether or not a molecule has been phosphorylated can be detected using antibodies, electrophoresis, or mass spectrometry. However, identifying and characterizing phosphorylation sites is difficult. Isotope labeling is often used, in conjunction with fluorescence, electrophoresis, and immunoassays. Sources Online casino operator Hurricane Global Group has strengthened its offering with the recent acquisition of HeySpin, a brand running on the Aspire Global platform. The amount Hurricane Global paid for the newest addition to its offering has remained undisclosed. The company said that under the terms of the acquisition, the newly added operation will be jointly managed by Hurricane Global itself and by its strategic partner, the Chilli Partnersaffiliate network. HeySpin features more than 200 casino games, including slots and live casino titles from leading industry providers. The gaming site operates under licenses from the Malta Gaming Authority and the UK Gambling Commission and services players from the Nordics and the UK, among other territories. Of this recent acquisition, Hurricane Global said that it will help it strengthen its strategic alliance with Chilli Partners, a network with extensive user acquisition experience. The online casino operator further noted that the addition of HeySpin will help it cement its position in the iGaming space, while also bringing numerous benefits for the gaming site itself, including increased user traffic. News about the HeySpin acquisition emerge shortly after Hurricane Global purchased DuxCasino. Based in Malta and Cyprus, the iGaming company boasts years of experience in the industry and said recently that it has ventured into the space with the mission to revolutionize it. Combined Expertise Commenting on the recent announcement, Aspire Global VP Sales Jov Spiero said that they are very pleased to partner up with Hurricane Global and combine their expertise. He went on to say that this partnership will ensure that the latter group launches in regulated markets globally. It should be noted that the addition of HeySpin to its portfolio of brands will help the brands new owner explore expansion opportunitiesin the lucrative UK market. Mr. Speiro pointed out that the iGaming operation will operate on the Aspire Global platform and will thus be able to utilize the companys CRM and retention tools. He further noted that his companys experience in running digital gambling establishments, its high-tech and flexible platform, and its compliance and regulation teams will support the safety of the ambitious operators investments. The recent acquisition of DuxCasino and HeySpin are not the only big news shared by Hurricane Global in the last few months. Late last year, the company announced a content supply deal with Relax Gaming to boost the offering available across its brands. Under the terms of that partnership, Relax Gamings proprietary and aggregated content went live namely on DuxCasino. Source:Hurricane Global acquires Aspires HeySpin Casino, CasinoBeats, March 18, 2021 In the 21st century, we have many new ways to communicate emotions in digital messages, including emoji and emoticons. Since you yourself are reading this article on the Internet from a digital device, the chances are high that you have read or even used either an emoji or an emoticon today. Many people confuse emoji and emoticons, but they are actually quite different. Continue reading to find out why. What is the Difference Between Emoji and Emoticons? In this post, I will compare emoji vs. emoticon. I will use each of these terms in a sentence, so you can see it in context. Plus, I will show you a useful mnemonic that you can use when you arent sure how to describe the strange faces that people send you in text messages. So, what are you using in your texts? An emoticon or emjoi? What is an Emoticon? What is an emoticon? First, lets start with the older of the two. Emoticon is a noun. An emoticon is a set of characters that mimic a facial expression. The word emoticon itself is a portmanteau of the words emotion and icon. Emoticons in their current form were created in the 1980s, and, with the advent of affordable personal computing, gained widespread popularity in the 1990s. The following are example sentences, When I email my colleagues to ask them why they havent done something, I include smiley emoticons so they know Im not mad at them yet. Emoticons allow a writer to take advantage of facial emotion recognition to add deeper layers of social meaning to text. Here are a few examples or emoticons, :] :-] O.o :[ What is an Emoji? What is an emoji? The word emoji is the singular and plural version of a different noun. An emoji is a small picture that can be inserted into text. Emoji were created by a Japanese company in the 1990s. The word emoji is a contraction of the Japanese words e and moji, which can be roughly translated to mean pictograph. Here are some examples, I tried to put a sushi emoji in my text message, but it did not look very much like sushi. While many adults grew up using emoticons, youths are much more likely to prefer emoji for their own messages. Here are a few emoji, If you have a smartphone, you are familiar with the many different emoji that are on them. Trick to Remember the Difference Now, lets cover a helpful trick to remember emoticonsvs. emoji. Many people dont know that emoji and emoticons are not the same thing. They can be sometimes used to achieve similar goals, depending on the device you are using, but they are nonetheless different concepts. An emoji is a tiny picture of something. An emoticon is a sequence of characters that represents a facial expression. Thus, an emoji can be basically anything, from facial expressions to food items to sporting goods to national flags. An emoticon, meanwhile, is only a facial expression that conveys an emotion. Since emoticon is formed by combining the words emotion and icon, you can use the words etymology to remind yourself that this type of representation only refers to text-based imitations of facial emotions. Summary Is it emoji or emoticon? The two words are not interchangeable, but they both relate to the computing and texting world. An emoji is a small image of something. An emoticon is a character sequence that conveys facial expressions. Since emoticon is a portmanteau of emotion and icon, you should have little trouble remembering when to use this term if you can remember how the word is formed. The ever-evolving world of digital communication can be headache-inducing, but as long as you have resources like this site, you can always be up-to-date on the current trends. Now, you dont have to worry when selecting emoticonor emojiin your text. M.A., History, University of Florida B.A., History, University of Florida The impact of the railroad on the geographic, economic, and political future of the United States was enormous, and not just because of the sheer physicality of the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad connecting the entire continent east to west in 1869. This massive amount of construction was only a tiny piece of the large and varied impact of rail travel on the development of the United States, beginning some 30 years earlier. Rail History in the United States The first railroads in America were horse-drawn, but with the development of the steam engine, railroads became a viable enterprise. The era of railroad building began in 1830 when Peter Cooper's locomotive called the Tom Thumb was put into service and traveled 13 miles along what would become the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad line. Over 1,200 miles of railroad track were laid between 1832 and 1837. And, in the 1860s, the construction of the Transcontinental Railway brought the two coasts closer together. The impact of railroad traffic was no less than a revolution of communication for the new territories of the rapidly expanding United States. Bound Counties Together and Allowed for Distant Travel Livia Lazar / EyeEm / Getty Images Railroads created a more interconnected society. Counties were able to more easily work together due to the decreased travel time. With the use of the steam engine, people were able to travel to distant locations much more quickly than if they were using only horse-powered transportation. In fact, on May 10, 1869, when the Union and Central Pacific Railroads joined their rails at Promontory Summit, Utah Territory, the entire nation was joined with 1,776 miles of track. The Transcontinental Railroad meant that the frontier could be extended with a greater movement of population. Thus, the railroad also allowed people to change their place of living with greater ease than ever before. Outlet for Products beppeverge / Getty Images The advent of a rail network expanded the available markets for goods. An item for sale in New York could now make it out west in a much shorter time, and the railroads allowed the movement of a wider variety of goods much farther distances. That had a two-fold effect on the economy: the sellers found new markets in which to sell their goods and individuals who lived on the frontier were able to obtain goods that had previously been unavailable or extremely difficult to get. Facilitating Settlement, Part I Peter Karoly / EyeEm / Getty Images The railroad system allowed for new settlements to thrive along the rail networks. For example, Davis, California, where the University of California Davis is located, started around a Southern Pacific Railroad depot in 1868. The end destination remained a focal point of settlement and people were able to move whole families great distances much easier than in the past. However, towns along the route also thrived. New towns sprung up at regular intervals as stations where travelers could find layover points and residents find new markets for goods. Facilitating Settlement, Part II Chin Leong Teoh / EyeEm / Getty Images The construction of the transcontinental railroad also facilitated European settlement of the west to a large extent by disrupting and impacting the Indigenous peoples that lived in the Plains states. The construction altered the landscape, leading to the disappearance of wild game, in particular, the American buffalo or bison. Before the railroad, an estimated 30 to 60 million buffalo roamed the plains, providing meat, furs, and bone for tools to the people. Massive hunting parties traveled by trains, killing buffalo by sport. By the end of the century, only 300 bison were known to exist. In addition, new White settlers established by the trains put them into direct conflict with Indigenous peoples who fought back. In the end, those efforts were fruitless. Stimulated Commerce Fei Yang / Getty Images Not only did the railways provide greater opportunity through extending markets, but they also stimulated more people to start businesses and thereby enter the markets. An extended marketplace provided a greater number of individuals the opportunity to produce and sell goods. Whereas an item might not have had enough demand in a local town to warrant production, the railroads allowed for the shipment of goods to a greater area. The expansion of the market allowed for greater demand and made additional goods viable. Value in the Civil War Buyenlarge / Getty Images The railroads also played a vital role in the American Civil War. They allowed the North and South to move men and equipment vast distances to further their own war aims. Because of their strategic value to both sides, they also became focal points of each side's war efforts. In other words, the North and South both engaged in battles with the design to secure different railroad hubs. For example, Corinth, Mississippi was a key railroad hub which was taken first by the Union a few months after the Battle of Shiloh in May 1862. Later, the Confederates tried to recapture the town and the railroads in October of the same year but were defeated. Another key point about the importance of railroads in the Civil War was that the North's more extensive railway system was a factor in their ability to win the war. The transportation network of the North allowed them to move men and equipment longer distances and with greater speed, thus providing them with a significant advantage. What Is a Registered Education Savings Plan?playnow bc lotto no deposit netent A Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP), sponsored by the Canadian government, encourages investing in a child's future post-secondary education. Subscribers to an RESP make contributions that build up tax-free earnings. The government contributes a certain amount to these plans for children under age 18. Contributors do not receive a tax deduction for investments in an RESP. There are no taxes due until funds are taken out to pay for a childs education. At that time, contributions made into the RESP are returned tax-free, although contributors earnings from the plan are taxed. The money the government pays out is taxed to the students. However, since a large number of students have little to no income, many can withdraw the money tax-free. Understanding Registered Education Savings Plans (RESP) A Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) lets parents in Canada begin saving for their childrens education at birth, with the government pitching in part of the tab. Parents or guardians simply walk into a bank, credit union or other financial institution to open up an account. Anyone can contribute, whether it's mom, dad, neighbor, or a favorite aunt or uncle. The money given out by the Canadian government is taxed, but since so many students have little to no income, many can withdraw the money tax-free. The government then matches the money up to a certain percentage and deposits it into the childs RESP. The extra funds the government deposits are called the Canadian Education and Savings Grant. The amount provided is graduated, based on family income. Matching benefits apply only on the first $2,500 in contribution per year. The amount of the grant is capped at a maximum of $7,200. Once in college, the child receives educational assistance payments (EAPs). These EAPs count as income for the child (beneficiary). If the beneficiary doesn't receive paymentseither by the choice of the contributor or because the beneficiary does not attend a post-secondary institutionthe contributor will receive the amount in the RESP back tax-free. Key Takeaways A Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) is a college plan sponsored by the Canadian government. Subscribers to an RESP make contributions that build up tax-free earnings for paying for higher education. In addition to parental contributions, the government contributes a certain amount to these plans for children under age 18. The Canadian government caps the lifetime contribution limit of $50,000 per beneficiary from all RESPs combined. If a child doesn't pursue an approved post-secondary education training program within 36 years of opening the account, the government can request the grant money back. There are penalties and income tax incurred on investment earnings that are withdrawn from an RESP and not used for college or vocational school. The number of allowed plans per child is unlimited. However, there is a lifetime contribution limit of $50,000 per beneficiary from all RESPs combined. Pros and Cons of Registered Education Savings Plans Generally, the plans are easy to access and provide strong investment incentives. Because parents won't initially pay taxes on the money, they have a dual incentive to save for their child's education; they avoid paying taxes and get bonus money from the government for the child's education in the process. There are a few catches. If a child doesn't pursue an approved post-secondary education training program, such as college or trade school, within 36 years of opening the account, the government can request the grant money back. Also, any investment earnings that are withdrawn from the RESP that are not used for education-related expenses incur income tax plus an additional 20% penalty. Daphnis free fixed game gala games binanceand Chloe New Word List Save This Word! Save This Word! nountwo lovers in pastoral literature, especially in a Greek romance attributed to Longus.(italics) a ballet (1912) with music by Maurice Ravel and scenario and choreography by Michel Fokine.(italics) either of two orchestral suites by Ravel based on the music of this ballet. Words nearby Daphnis and Chloe How to use Daphnis and Chloe Daphnis and Chloe nountwo lovers in pastoral literature, esp in a prose idyll attributed to the Greek writer Longus Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Questiondap, Daphne, Daphnephoria, Daphnia, Daphnis, Daphnis and Chloe, Da Ponte, dapper, dapple, dappled, dapple-grayDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 English has a lot of confusing words in its vocabulary. Whether it be words that sound alike, words that are spelled alike, or words that have similar meanings, it seems like the list goes on and on. Today, I want to go over a set of homophones that confuse people in their daily writing: acclimation vs. acclamation. These two words are homophones; they share identical pronunciations, so it is impossible to tell them apart from one another with the spoken word outside of context. They are spelled differently, however, but even this is a one-letter difference that separates them. Its easy to see how people can get these two words confused. In this post I want to go over the differences between acclimation and acclamation, their definitions and functions within a sentence, and give you a few tricks to keep track of them. When to Use Acclimation Acclimation is defined as the process of acclimating or of becoming acclimated. To acclimate is to accustom or become accustomed to a new environment or situation. For example, When going to Denver, it will take a few days to get acclimated to the altitude. The acclimated period when moving to a new city can be several months. As you can see, to acclimateand acclimationboth have to do with getting used to something that is new. Someone who is placed is a new situation or new job will need time to acclimate to his new surroundings, so its important to remember that acclimation deals with a period of time. When to Use Acclamation Acclamation, no matter how similar it may sounds to acclimation, has a completely different meaning. An acclamation is a shout or salute of enthusiastic approval. For example, By acclamation I would like to introduce the next President of the United States. The young pianist has received acclamation from audiences worldwide. After scoring the game-winning touchdown, the stadium was brought to its feet in acclamation. When the band came on stage, the stadium erupted in acclamation. Another difference between these two words is that acclamation does not function as a verb. While acclimation has a noun and verb form, acclimationis only a noun. Acclamation does, however, have an adjective form, acclamatory. Remember the Difference If you just got down reading these two definitions and you still dont know how youre going to keep track of these words, dont worry. There is a good memory trick that I use to help myself. You can remember what acclimate means by thinking that time is involved, and all the letters for timeare in the words acclimate but not acclamation. This may be a stretch, but it is how I remember it. Let me know if you have a better trick. To remember acclamation is easy. Acclamationis similar to the word exclamation. They both have to do with oral and auditory noises, and the both end in lamation. Summary These are two very different words, but we need to make sure we know when to use acclamation vs. acclimation. Acclimationis a period of time when you are getting acclimated or used to something. Acclamation is a loud, enthusiastic approval of something, typically to welcome or honor someone. Facebook Facebook Twitter Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College Distilled water is purified water produced by condensing steam or water vapor from impure water, such as well water, seawater, tap water, snow, streams, or even plants or damp rock. You can distill water to further purify the water you have, to make drinking water for emergencies, or to obtain water while on camping trips. There are several methods for making distilled water, so you can save yourself some money and distill it yourself rather than buying it at the store. Which of several methods to use to distill water depends on the resources you have available and whether you are distilling impure water or have to get water from the air or plants. Key Takeaways: How to Make Distilled Water Distilled water is water that has been purified by vaporizing it and condensing the vapor. Many of the contaminants in the source water don't ever reach the gas phase, so the resulting water is cleaner. Some methods of water distillation involve boiling water and collecting the steam. As the steam cools, it is collected as distilled water. Other methods rely on evaporation of water. The water doesn't boil, but changing temperature or pressure forms water vapor. The vapor is cooled to form distilled water. Distill Water on Your Stove, Grill or Campfire You can make distilled water over a stove, grill, or campfire quite easily. You need a large container of water, a smaller collection container that either floats in the first container or can be propped up above the water level, a rounded or pointed lid that fits the big container (turned upside down so that when the steam condenses, the water drips into your smaller container), and some ice. Here is a recommended material list: 5-gallon stainless steel or aluminum pot Rounded lid for the pot Glass or metal bowl that floats inside the pot Ice cubes Hot pads Fill the large pot partly full of water. Set the collection bowl in the pot. The plan is to collect water dripping from the center of the inverted pan lid, so choose the size of the bowl to make sure the distilled water won't just drip back into the main pot. Set the pot lid upside down on the pot. When you heat the water, water vapor will rise up to the lid, condense into droplets, and fall into your bowl. Turn on the heat for the pan. The water needs to get very hot, but it's OK if it doesn't boil. Put ice cubes on top of the lid of the pot. The cold will help to condense the steam in the pot into liquid water. When complete, turn off the heat and use care to remove the bowl of distilled water. Store distilled water in a clean, preferably sterile container (dishwasher clean or else immersed in boiling water). Use a container intended for long-term storage of water because other containers may have contaminants that would leach into your water over time, undoing all your work to get pure water. Collect Water in an Outside Container A similar method is to heat water in a pot but collect the distilled water in an outside container. You can be as creative as you like with your setup for this. Just be sure to collect the distilled water and not the pot water. One option is to use a funnel over the boiling water container that is connected to the collection bottle with aquarium tubing. For the funnel to drain into your collection bottle, you want to empty the tubing at a lower level than the funnel. Otherwise, the method is the same. The advantages include safety (you don't need to wait for the pot to cool to get your water) and reduced risk of contamination from the source water. Contamination is not a big concern when you're purifying rain or tap water but may be more of a consideration if you're trying to make nonpotable water safe enough to drink. Distill Water From Rain or Snow Rain and snow are two forms of naturally distilled water. Water evaporates from the ocean, lakes, rivers, and the land and condenses in the atmosphere to fall as precipitation. Unless you live in a highly polluted area, the water is pure and safe to drink. (Do not collect rainwater that comes off an asphalt shingle roof through the gutters for this procedure.) Collect rain or snow in a clean container. Allow a day or so for any sediment to fall to the bottom of the bowl. In most cases, you can pour off the clean water and drink it as-is; however, you can include additional filtration steps, such as running the water through a coffee filter or boiling it. Water keeps best if it's refrigerated, but you can keep it indefinitely in a clean, sealed container at room temperature, too. Use Home Distillation Kits Unless you're collecting rain or snow, water distillation costs money because it uses fuel or electricity to heat the source water. It's cheaper to buy bottled distilled water than it is to make it on your stove. However, if you use a home distiller, you can make distilled water more cheaply than you can buy it. Home distillation kits range in price from about $100 to several hundred dollars. If you're making distilled water for drinking, the less expensive kits are fine. More expensive kits are used for lab work or for processing large volumes of water to supply water needs for an entire house. Distill Water From Plants or Mud While out camping or in serious emergency situations, you can distill water from virtually any source of water. If you understand the basic principle, you likely can imagine many potential setups. Here's an example of a method used to extract water from desert plants. Note that this is a time-consuming process. Green plants Plastic wrap Coffee can or other clean container Small rocks Dig a hole in the ground in a sunny location. Place the coffee can in the center of the bottom of the hole to collect the water. Pile up damp plants in the hole around the coffee can. Cover the hole with a piece of plastic wrap. You can secure it using rocks or dirt. Ideally, you want to seal the plastic so no moisture escapes. The greenhouse effect will trap heat inside the plastic, aiding in the evaporation of the water. Place a pebble in the center of the plastic wrap to create a small depression. As water evaporates, the vapor will condense on the plastic and fall where you created the depression, dripping into the can. You can add fresh plants to keep the process going. Avoid using poisonous plants containing volatile toxins because they will contaminate your water. Cacti and ferns are good choices, where they are available. Ferns are edible, too. What Is Managerial Accounting?verajohn casino 20 free spins Managerial accounting is the practice of identifying, measuring, analyzing, interpreting, and communicating financial information to managers for the pursuit of an organization's goals. Managerial accounting differs from financial accounting because the intended purpose of managerial accounting is to assist users internal to the company in making well-informed business decisions. Key Takeaways Managerial accounting involves the presentation of financial information for internal purposes to be used by management in making key business decisions. Techniques used by managerial accountants are not dictated by accounting standards, unlike financial accounting. The presentation of managerial accounting data can be modified to meet the specific needs of its end-user. Managerial accounting encompasses many facets of accounting, including product costing, budgeting, forecasting, and various financial analysis. This differs from financial accounting, which produces and disseminates official financial statements for public consumption that conform to prevailing accounting standards. Managerial Accounting How Managerial Accounting Works 1:45 Managerial accounting encompasses many facets of accounting aimed at improving the quality of information delivered to management about business operation metrics. Managerial accountants use information relating to the cost and sales revenue of goods and services generated by the company. Cost accounting is a large subset of managerial accounting that specifically focuses on capturing a company's total costs of production by assessing the variable costs of each step of production, as well as fixed costs. It allows businesses to identify and reduce unnecessary spending and maximize profits. Managerial Accounting vs. Financial Accounting The key difference between managerial accounting and financial accounting relates to the intended users of the information. Managerial accounting information is aimed at helping managers within the organization make well-informed business decisions, while financial accounting is aimed at providing financial information to parties outside the organization. Financial accounting must conform to certain standards, such as generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). All publicly held companies are required to complete their financial statements in accordance with GAAP as a requisite for maintaining their publicly traded status. Most other companies in the U.S. conform to GAAP in order to meet debt covenants often required by financial institutions offering lines of credit. Because managerial accounting is not for external users, it can be modified to meet the needs of its intended users. This may vary considerably by company or even by department within a company. For example, managers in the production department may want to see their financial information displayed as a percentage of units produced in the period. The HR department manager may be interested in seeing a graph of salaries by employee over a period of time. Managerial accounting is able to meet the needs of both departments by offering information in whatever format is most beneficial to that specific need. Types of Managerial Accounting Product Costing and Valuation Product costing deals with determining the total costs involved in the production of a good or service. Costs may be broken down into subcategories, such as variable, fixed, direct, or indirect costs. Cost accounting is used to measure and identify those costs, in addition to assigning overhead to each type of product created by the company. Managerial accountants calculate and allocate overhead charges to assess the full expense related to the production of a good. The overhead expenses may be allocated based on the number of goods produced or other activity drivers related to production, such as the square footage of the facility. In conjunction with overhead costs, managerial accountants use direct costs to properly value the cost of goods sold and inventory that may be in different stages of production. Marginal costing (sometimes called cost-volume-profit analysis) is the impact on the cost of a product by adding one additional unit into production. It is useful for short-term economic decisions. The contribution margin of a specific product is its impact on the overall profit of the company. Margin analysis flows into break-even analysis, which involves calculating the contribution margin on the sales mix to determine the unit volume at which the businesss gross sales equal total expenses. Break-even point analysis is useful for determining price points for products and services. Cash Flow Analysis Managerial accountants perform cash flow analysis in order to determine the cash impact of business decisions. Most companies record their financial information on the accrual basis of accounting. Although accrual accounting provides a more accurate picture of a company's true financial position, it also makes it harder to see the true cash impact of a single financial transaction. A managerial accountant may implement working capital management strategies in order to optimize cash flow and ensure the company has enough liquid assets to cover short-term obligations. When a managerial accountant performs cash flow analysis, he will consider the cash inflow or outflow generated as a result of a specific business decision. For example, if a department manager is considering purchasing a company vehicle, he may have the option to either buy the vehicle outright or get a loan. A managerial accountant may run different scenarios by the department manager depicting the cash outlay required to purchase outright upfront versus the cash outlay over time with a loan at various interest rates. Inventory Turnover Analysis Inventory turnover is a calculation of how many times a company has sold and replaced inventory in a given time period. Calculating inventory turnover can help businesses make better decisions on pricing, manufacturing, marketing, and purchasing new inventory. A managerial accountant may identify the carrying cost of inventory, which is the amount of expense a company incurs to store unsold items. If the company is carrying an excessive amount of inventory, there could be efficiency improvements made to reduce storage costs and free up cash flow for other business purposes. Constraint Analysis Managerial accounting also involves reviewing the constraints within a production line or sales process. Managerial accountants help determine where bottlenecks occur and calculate the impact of these constraints on revenue, profit, and cash flow. Managers can then use this information to implement changes and improve efficiencies in the production or sales process. Financial Leverage Metrics Financial leverage refers to a company's use of borrowed capital in order to acquire assets and increase its return on investments. Through balance sheet analysis, managerial accountants can provide management with the tools they need to study the company's debt and equity mix in order to put leverage to its most optimal use. Performance measures such as return on equity, debt to equity, and return on invested capital help management identify key information about borrowed capital, prior to relaying these statistics to outside sources. It is important for management to review ratios and statistics regularly to be able to appropriately answer questions from its board of directors, investors, and creditors. Accounts Receivable (AR) Management Appropriately managing accounts receivable (AR) can have positive effects on a company's bottom line. An accounts receivable aging report categorizes AR invoices by the length of time they have been outstanding. For example, an AR aging report may list all outstanding receivables less than 30 days, 30 to 60 days, 60 to 90 days, and 90+ days. Through a review of outstanding receivables, managerial accountants can indicate to appropriate department managers if certain customers are becoming credit risks. If a customer routinely pays late, management may reconsider doing any future business on credit with that customer. Budgeting, Trend Analysis, and Forecasting Budgets are extensively used as a quantitative expression of the company's plan of operation. Managerial accountants utilize performance reports to note deviations of actual results from budgets. The positive or negative deviations from a budget also referred to as budget-to-actual variances, are analyzed in order to make appropriate changes going forward. Managerial accountants analyze and relay information related to capital expenditure decisions. This includes the use of standard capital budgeting metrics, such as net present value and internal rate of return, to assist decision-makers on whether to embark on capital-intensive projects or purchases. Managerial accounting involves examining proposals, deciding if the products or services are needed, and finding the appropriate way to finance the purchase. It also outlines payback periods so management is able to anticipate future economic benefits. Managerial accounting also involves reviewing the trendline for certain expenses and investigating unusual variances or deviations. It is important to review this information regularly because expenses that vary considerably from what is typically expected are commonly questioned during external financial audits. This field of accounting also utilizes previous period information to calculate and project future financial information. This may include the use of historical pricing, sales volumes, geographical locations, customer tendencies, or financial information. Is Financial Accounting the Same as Managerial Accounting? While they often perform similar tasks, financial accounting is the process of preparing and presenting official quarterly or annual financial information for external use. Such reports may include audited financial statements that help investors and analysts decide whether to buy or sell shares of the company. Because of this managerial accounting in the U.S. must adhere to GAAP standards. Managerial accounting, in contrast, uses pro forma measures that describe and measure the financial information tracked internally by corporate managers. Do Managerial Accountants Need to Follow GAAP? No, managerial accountants are not legally obligated to follow GAAP because the documents they produce are not regulated by GAAP. These documents focus on internal company metrics that focus on company performance. What Types of Information Does Managerial Accounting Compute? Managerial accounting is useful for companies to track and craft spending budgets, reduce costs, project sales figures, and manage cash flows, among other tasks. What Are the 3 Pillars of Managerial Accounting? Managerial accounting is used for planning, decision-making, and controlling. These are the three pillars of the field. In addition, forecasting and performance tracking are key components. The Bottom Line Managerial accounting is important for drafting accurate and complete financial statements for internal use and crafting a company's long-term strategy. Without good managerial accounting, corporate leadership can struggle to make appropriate choices or misunderstand the firm's true financial picture. Because managerial accounting documents are not official, they do not have to conform to GAAP and can be used internally for a variety of purposes. Daphnis [ daf-nis olg blackjack online game nft pc ]/ df ns / New Word List Save This Word! [ daf-nis]/ df ns /Save This Word! noun Classical Mythology.a son of Hermes: the originator of pastoral poetry. Words nearby Daphnis How to use Daphnis Daphnis/ (dfns) / nounGreek myth a Sicilian shepherd, the son of Hermes and a nymph, who was regarded as the inventor of pastoral poetry Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!QuestionDanzig, dap, Daphne, Daphnephoria, Daphnia, Daphnis, Daphnis and Chloe, Da Ponte, dapper, dapple, dappledDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 The periodic table has a name for every element, and English has at least one word that corresponds to each name. In the case of the element with the symbol Al and the chemical number 13, English has two words: aluminum and aluminium. The difference between these two words comes down to the differences between American and British English. While aluminum is the original word, British editors standardized around aluminium, to preserve consistency with elements like sodium, lithium, and titanium. Continue reading to find out when to use each version of this word. What is the Difference Between Aluminum and Aluminium? In this article, I will explore the aluminum vs. aluminium debate. I will use the words in example sentences to illustrate how they should look in context. I will subsequently show you a mnemonic device for your mental toolkit that will help you remember whether to use aluminum or aluminium. When to Use Aluminum What does aluminum mean? The word aluminum is a noun. Aluminumis a type of metalthat is useful in a variety of applications because it is lightweight, resistant to corrosion, and excellent at conducting heat. Here are some examples of aluminum in sentences, Aluminum conducts electricity but not as well as silver, copper, or gold. Kyle used aluminum baseball bats when he was young, but as he grew older, he switched to bats hewn of ash. My cookware has a layer of aluminum bonded between layers of stainless steel, so that food heats more evenly. One of the worlds largest aluminum stockpiles, which until a few months ago was stored under hay and plastic tarp in a Mexican desert, has been moved to a remote port here in southern Vietnam. The Wall Street Journal When to Use Aluminium What does aluminium mean? Aluminium is the British English word for the same metal. The following chart compares usage of aluminium vs. aluminum in British English works published since 1800, As you can see, the British have historically preferred the spelling aluminium, and it predominates there to this day. Interestingly enough, however, the gap between the two might be narrowing. That said, this chart isnt exhaustive in its scope, only looking at books, to the exclusion of papers, magazines, journals, etc. Still, it is helpful in determining long-term usage trends. These sentences illustrate the British English aluminium, Bloody hell, Commerford, stop using that silly Italian pot; the coffee tastes like aluminium! said Wilshire. Is the tap made of aluminium, or stainless steel? asked Bronwyn. Velar is based on the same fundamental aluminium components as its sister car, as is common in the industry these days; just one of the revolutions the TT kicked-off nearly 20 years ago. The Telegraph Trick to Remember the Difference You can easily decide whether to choose aluminum or aluminium by keeping your audience in mind. American readersare used to aluminum, while British audiencesprefer aluminium. While aluminumwas the original spelling of the element, many scientific communities have standardized around aluminium, so if you are writing for a scientific journal, that might be your best choice. For everyday writing, however, if you have trouble remembering that aluminium is the British version of this word, remember that aluminium has two Is, much like the word British. Summary Is it aluminum or aluminium? Aluminum and aluminium both describe an elemental metal that makes up roughly 8% of the earths crust, and is used by humans for many things. Aluminum is the American version of the word. Aluminium is the British version. Since aluminium and British are each spelled with two Is, you can easily remember that aluminium should be reserved for British audiences. If you require additional assistance, be sure to check this article for a quick refresher when choosing aluminiumor aluminum. What Is Reflexivity?best earning app for android 2020 Reflexivity in economics is the theory that a feedback loop exists in which investors' perceptions affect economic fundamentals, which in turn changes investor perception. The theory of reflexivity has its roots in sociology, but in the world of economics and finance, its primary proponent is George Soros. Soros believes that reflexivity disproves much of mainstream economic theory and should become a major focus of economic research, and even makes grandiose claims that it "gives rise to a new morality as well as a new epistemology." Key Takeaways Reflexivity is a theory that positive feedback loops between expectations and economic fundamentals can cause price trends that substantially and persistently deviate from equilibrium prices. Reflexivitys primary proponent is George Soros, who credits it with much of his success as an investor. Soros believes that reflexivity contradicts most of mainstream economic theory. Understanding Reflexivity Reflexivity theory states that investors don't base their decisions on reality, but rather on their perceptions of reality instead. The actions that result from these perceptions have an impact on reality, or fundamentals, which then affects investors' perceptions and thus prices. The process is self-reinforcing and tends toward disequilibrium, causing prices to become increasingly detached from reality. Soros views the global financial crisis as an illustration of the theory. In his view, rising home prices induced banks to increase their home mortgage lending and, in turn, increased lending helped drive up home prices. Without a check on rising prices, this resulted in a price bubble, which eventually collapsed, resulting in the financial crisis and Great Recession. Soross theory of reflexivity runs counter to the concepts of economic equilibrium, rational expectations, and the efficient market hypothesis. In mainstream economic theory, equilibrium prices are implied by the real economic fundamentals that determine supply and demand. Changes in economic fundamentals, such as consumer preferences and real resource scarcity, will induce market participants to bid prices up or down based on their more or less rational expectations of what economic fundamentals imply about future prices. This process includes both positive and negative feedback between prices and expectations regarding economic fundamentals, which balance each other out at a new equilibrium price. In the absence of major obstacles to communicating information regarding economic fundamentals and engaging in transactions at mutually agreed prices, this price process will tend to keep the market moving quickly and efficiently toward equilibrium. Soros believes that reflexivity challenges the idea of economic equilibrium because it means prices might deviate from the equilibrium values by a significant amount persistently over time. In Soross opinion, this is because the process of price formation is reflexive and dominated by positive feedback loops between prices and expectations. Once a change in economic fundamentals occurs, these positive feedback loops cause prices to under- or overshoot the new equilibrium. In some way, the normal negative feedback between prices and expectations regarding economic fundamentals, which would counterbalance these positive feedback loops, fails. Eventually, the trend reverses once market participants recognize that prices have become detached from reality and revise their expectations (though Soros does not recognize this as negative feedback). As evidence for his theory, Soros points to the boom-bust cycle and various episodes of price bubbles followed by price crashes, when it is widely believed that prices deviate strongly from the equilibrium values implied by economic fundamentals. He often makes reference to the use of leverage and the availability of credit in initiating the process, and the role of floating currency exchange rates in these episodes. Beijing Daxing International Airport Photo: Xinhua Multiple provincial-level regions across China have further deployed,researched, optimized and detailed the implementation of anti-epidemic measures following the roll-out of 20 measures to optimize COVID-19 response on Friday, the country's latest move in scientific and precise epidemic control and prevention work to fight the COVID-19 epidemic amid a global resurgence.It cannot be ruled out that further optimization and adjustment of Chinese quarantine measures will be made as the SAR-CoV-2 is continuing to mutate, understanding of this disease is deepened, and the entire situation of the epidemic at home and abroad is changing, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention said during a press briefing by the Joint Prevention and Control Mechanism of the State Council on Saturday.Shanghai has decreased the frequency of nucleic acid testing for local primary and middle school students at school to three times every week from five times a week, as well as rolled out other more precise epidemic control and prevention measures on Sunday in accordance with the 20 optimized measures released by the Joint Prevention and Control Mechanism of the State Council on Friday, according to the official WeChat account of the city.The city that registered one new confirmed local patient and nine new asymptomatic carriers on Saturday with all the infections discovered under quarantine will cancel regular citywide nucleic acid testing, and the all-member testing will only be carried out when the origin and the transmission chains of the infections are unclear or the virus has been spreading for a long while with uncertain and untraceable infections.China registered a total of 1,675 new local confirmed patients and 13,086 new asymptomatic carriers on Saturday, one day after the roll-out of 20 optimized measures including shortened quarantine periods for international arrivals and cancelation of circuit breakers for inbound flights, no more requirement on the screening of close contacts of close contacts, or secondary contacts, and that the categories of COVID-19 risk areas will be adjusted from three categories of "high," "medium," and "low" to just two categories of "high" and "low" to minimize the number of people that may be subject to community lockdowns or health monitoring.China's National Health Commission (NHC) further explained and answered questions related to the 20 measures concerned by the public on its official website on Sunday.As the SAR-CoV-2 is continuing to mutate, the global epidemic is still spreading, and new flare-ups are constantly emerging in some domestic places, the scope and scale of the epidemic are likely to further expand in the country when entering the winter and spring seasons, since China has a large population and a large number of vulnerable groups, NHC said in a statement.According to NHC, infected people's workplaces and activity venues with high risk of epidemic transmission will be designated as "high" risk areas, which are designated generally based on units or buildings to minimize the control on the range and personnel.Since the latent Omicron variants are spreading faster, the epidemic prevention at venues including schools, nursing homes, psychiatric hospitals and enterprises will be strengthened.To ensure the implementation of the optimized measures and curbing local government ramping up COVID response measures, excessive policy steps such as random suspension of classes, operation and production, and adoption of static management for a long time, will be prohibited.Such behaviors will be made public and offenders will be held accountable in accordance with the law and regulations if serious consequences are caused.A task force dedicated to resolving issues related to local governments ratcheting up virus-containment measures or applying rigid steps have been set up across the country, according to NHC.Apart from Shanghai, multiple places including Beijing, South China's Guangdong and Hainan provinces, Northwest China's Gansu and Qinghai provinces and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, North China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, and East China's Jiangsu and Jiangxi provinces have also made swift adjustments for COVID-19 prevention and control measures after the 20 measures were released on Friday, local media reported.Beijing authorities urged more precise measures to be taken on quarantine, transport, nucleic acid testing, flow of personnel, medical services, vaccination, in service enterprises and on campuses after the roll-out of the 20 measures on Friday.Beijing municipal government officials on Saturday announced the launch of a special relief mechanism, effective from Saturday, for people who have been stranded outside Beijing for extended periods, vowing to help address situations for people who had visited high risk areas outside Beijing.The latest Omicron-hit Guangdong also vowed on Friday to strengthen scientific precise prevention and continue to improve the effectiveness of the prevention and control work, resolutely preventing problems such as simplification, one-size-fits-all, and ratcheting up virus-containment measures.The province facing a grim epidemic control situation with 247 new local confirmed patients and 3,541 asymptomatic infections registered on Saturday vowed to focus its efforts on the battle against the epidemic and curb the flare-up as soon as possible.In response to the adjusted policies, Chinese embassies in multiple countries such as Singapore, Canada, the US and Sri Lanka released notices on Sunday on the adjustments of policies on pre-trip nucleic acid testing for people going to China.Only one nucleic acid test within 48 hours before they get on board will be needed and they can apply for a health code with the negative results of the tests. Before the adjustment on the policy, two negative results of nucleic acid tests were needed by inbound travelers to China.China's NHC reiterated on Saturday that the 20 measures are designed to optimize the country's ninth edition of diagnostic and treatment protocols for COVID-19, to make the implementation of the measures more science-based and precise, noting that strict epidemic prevention and control must be combined with optimized measures, and that "strenuous efforts must be put on both.""They certainly do not mean we can slacken our response or even simply end COVID restrictions and lie flat," Mi Feng, spokesperson from the NHC, said at a press conference held by the State Council Joint Prevention and Control Mechanism against COVID-19 on Saturday.Through a series of measures, including strengthening policy interpretation and training, the authorities will promote the implementation of the 20 optimized measures, Mi said.Global Times Are you an iGaming fan?real legal online gambling Then 2022 is set to be a fantastic year for you. With more authorities easing up on their COVID-19 regulations, more iGaming events will occur in person. That means that you now have the chance to network with fellow iGaming fans and catch the action live. To ensure you dont miss out on the biggest iGaming eventsthis year, head on to casinoreviews.net, where you can stay updated and register for tickets at a discount. ICE London Can the iGaming event list even come close to being complete without mentioning this event? It will take place from the 12thto the 14thof April 2022, enabling global gaming operators to network with like-minded stakeholders. You get to meet tech experts, decision makers, policy makers and regulators, and more at the event. And you will also have the chance to review products even before they hit the market. Sounds like a good deal? Book a ticket now to ensure you get to be part of it all. Gaming Americas Q2 Meetup While most events are set to be in-person, this event will feature a twist by taking place virtually on the 19thof April, 2022. Attendees will have the chance to keep abreast with the gaming goings-on in the North American and Latin American gambling industries. And as the panelists go through the regional statistics and cover related topics, you will have a pretty clear idea of what you can expect. Tons of stakeholders will be present, including business development managers and CEOs who will offer their insights on the gambling developments. SiGMA Asia Its no secret that Asia remains a hub in the gaming industry, accounting for billions of active gamers. So, its not a surprise that the live SiGMA Asia event will attract throngs of people keen on land-based and online gaming developments. You can expect to see a lot of innovative technology coupled with talks from knowledgeable speakers keen on furthering the gaming industry. If you would like to network with business professionals in the gaming industry, this would be an ideal place to do so. Almost everyone will be present. And when does it take place? From the 10thto the 11thof May in Manila, Philippines. European Gaming Q2 Meetup Are you curious about the European gaming industry? On the 2ndof June 2022, you will have the chance to join talks centering around this topic. The event will take place in Berlin, Germany. But if you cant make it physically to listen to industry experts outlining the current and future state of gambling in Europe, you can catch the event online. Even online, you can still network with others in the breakout rooms. So, theres no reason any interested party should miss out on this fantastic chance. Betting on Sports Europe 2022 What will you be doing from the 7thto the 9thof June 2022? Does Stamford Bridge sound like a plan? Lets tell you why you might want to circle these dates on your calendar. For these three days, market players from across the globe will meet to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the global gaming industry. But thats not all they will discuss. They will also unveil the technology that will shape the industry in the years to come. And suppliers will be in plenty, so you can find someone to facilitate your business growth. The Americas Gaming Awards How about celebrating some of the biggest wins in the gaming industry? Thats what this event will be all about highlighting the most notable projects that have changed the operations in the gaming sector. Expect glitz and glam in this event scheduled for the 17thof July 2022 in Toronto, Canada. Have you found anything you would like to attend? These are but a fraction of the events available to iGaming lovers. Review the options, settle on the best one, and get ready to take your business to the next level. Category: Casino Blog File photo:VCG ThePeople's Bank of China (PBC), the country's central bank, said on Wednesday that it will keep the yuan exchange rate basically stable at an appropriate and balanced level.The PBC will continue to adhere to a managed floating exchange rate regime based on market supply and demand and adjusted with reference to a basket of currencies. The market will play a decisive role in the yuan's exchange rate, the central bank said in the China Monetary Policy Report Q3 2022 released on Wednesday."We will adopt a comprehensive set of policies to stabilize expectations, make the yuan exchange rate more flexible, guide enterprises and financial institutions to adopt a risk-neutral philosophy, and resolutely smoothen fluctuations in the exchange rate," said the report.The central bank will pay close attention to the spillover effects of economic trends and monetary policy adjustments in major developed economies and give priority to internal and external balance.To maintain China's economic development and growth, the PBC said it will step up efforts to implement a prudent monetary policy and will refrain from issuing excessive amounts of money, so as to provide stronger and higher-quality support to the real economy.The current external environment is becoming more complex and grim. Overseas inflation is running at a high level, the downside risks in the global economy are mounting, and the foundation for domestic economic recovery is not yet solid.However, it should be noted that the factors and conditions for building a new development pattern in China are sufficient. The recovery of effective demand is increasingly evident. The economy has strong resilience, great potential and broad room for maneuver, and the fundamentals for long-term sound growth remain unchanged, said the PBC.The central bank will maintain reasonable and sufficient liquidity, and guide policy and development banks to fully use the quota of policy-based development financial instruments and the 800 billion yuan ($113 billion) of new credit quota. It will guide commercial banks to increase the supply of medium- and long-term loans and maintain proper growth of money supply and social financing.Overall, the prudent monetary policy has been flexible and appropriate. It has maintained continuity, stability and sustainability, increased the efficiency of policy transmission, and further improved the quality of financial support for the real economy, said the central bank.According to the Financial Statistics Report (October 2022) released by the central bank on Thursday, China's broad money supply stood at 261.29 trillion yuan by the end of October, increasing by 11.8 percent year-on-year. The amount of currency in circulation was 9.84 trillion yuan, up 14.3 percent year-on-year.As for yuan loans, the January-October period saw a cumulative rise of 18.7 trillion yuan, 1.15 trillion yuan higher than in the same period in 2021.In the monetary policy report, the central bank noted that the interest rate for new personal home loans was 4.3 percent in October, down 4 basis points from the previous month and 133 basis points from the end of 2021.The central bank, together with the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission, in late-September announced the relaxation of the floor on mortgage rates for first home buyers, as the country moves to better support home ownership.After the policy was introduced, some city governments responded positively and made corresponding adjustments. Banks in several cities have made cuts to mortgage rates for first-time home buyers to below 4 percent.Global Times These are two words that are easy to mix up with one another. Both fewer and less are used to indicate the same thing, the opposite of more, but they are used at different times. So when do you use which one? The traditional rules states that you use fewerfor counts nouns while you use less for mass nouns. What does this all mean? Ill explain below. Count Nouns vs. Mass Nouns Count nouns and mass nouns? Sounds complicated, doesnt it? Well, its actually pretty easy to tell these a part from each other. A count noun is a noun that can be enumerated or counted. Cars, for example. You can count how many cars are in a parking lot or how many Skittles you eat. I should eat fewer Skittles. Count nouns have both singular and plural forms, so if youre not sure if a noun is a count or mass noun, think to yourself if you can make it both singular and plural. If you can, its a count noun. A mass noun is a noun that cannot be counted because every quantity of it is treated as an undifferentiated unit. So while you I count the number of Skittles I eat, you cant count how much applesauce I eat. Mass nouns, unlike count nouns, cannot be made plural. When to Use Fewer As we learned above, fewer is used with count nouns. These are generally individual items. Here are a few example sentences, This game is best played with fewer than four players. The fewer people that come, the better. There are fewer students playing sports today. When to Use Less Again, less should be used with nouns that cannot be counted, i.e., mass nouns. These tend to be for bulk or quantity. Kids are reading less these days. I will need less than a gallon of paint for this room. The judge had less mercy on the man than the woman. Tricks to Remember One trick that can serve as a guide to help you keep track of these two words it to use lessfor singular nouns and use fewerfor plural ones. Less happiness. Fewer plates. Another good way to remember the difference between these two words is to think about your grocery store checkout line. Most grocery stores will have an express lane where it says 10 items or less. This is incorrect, and it should read 10 items or fewer because the items in your cart are individual items that are countable. But despite these stores incorrect usage, it can serve as a good reminder. Exceptions Less can, idiomatically, be used with certain plural nouns, including distances, periods of time, and sums of money. All of these, however, have an element of quantity to them, so lessis not completely out of place. For example, the following sentences are all acceptable English, My cabin is less than 50 miles away. This television program is less than one hour. I have less than $100 to my name. Problem Sentences Even now, its tricky to determine whether nouns are mass or count nouns. Here are some troublesome sentences how they should appear. She was less than 65 years old. In this sentence, years is referring to a period of time, not 60 individuals years themselves. I have less than $50 in my pocket. In this sentence you are referring to the amount $50, not 50 individual dollars. -But- I had fewer than 50 $1 bills in my pocket. In this sentence you are referring to 50 $1 bills. Summary Fewer is used with nouns that can be counted and with most plural nouns. Less is used with nouns that cannot be counted and are bulk quantities. Less can be used with certain plural nouns like time, money, and distances. It can be difficult to remember the difference between apart and a part. They are awfully close in their appearance, and when you say the words verbally, they are almost indistinguishable. But despite similar sounds, the two have very different meanings, making it that much more important to keep them straight. What is the Difference Between Apart and A Part? In this post I will clear up any confusion you may have about apart vs. a part and give you a few ways to remember the differences. When to Use Apart What does apart mean? Apart is an adverb meaning (of two or more people or things) separated by some distance; at a specified distance from each other in time or space. For example, The rocks fell 30 feet apart. The family was split 100 miles apart. Apart can also function as a preposition when paired with from. Apart from means with the exception of, besides. For example, Apart from this cookie, I havent eaten anything all day. The whole room was silent, apart from Becky. Apart can also function as a phrasal verb when it is preceded by certain verbs. For example, Pull apart Drift apart Come apart When to Use A Part What does a part mean? A part, which is actually two words, has a different meaning. A is an article, and part is a noun meaning a piece or segment of something. For example, May I have a part of your sandwich? Once were a part of this group, we all must pay dues. Part does not always appear with the article a, however. The article a can be dropped when part is not followed by an adjective. For example, we can rewrite the two examples from above as follows, May I have part of your sandwich? Once were part of this group, we all must pay dues. Be there an adjective before part, the article a is necessary. For example, May I have small part of your sandwich? (WRONG) May I have a small part of your sandwich? (CORRECT) Once were registered part of this group, we all must pay dues. (WRONG) Once were a registered part of this group, we all must pay dues. (CORRECT) Quiz and Sentence Examples I need to become ______ of a book club. Its been three years since we split ______. Make sure to keep your feet spread ______. He was asked to be ______ of their inner circle. ______ from the windy, its quite nice outside. Display the answers below. Remember the Difference A good way to remember the difference between apart and a part is to remember the prepositions with which they are often paired. Apart is often paired with the preposition from. Keep those two apart from each other. A part is often paired with the preposition of. I am a part of this community. Another easy usage test is to take away the article a and see if the sentence still makes sense. If you can remove a from the sentence and not change the meaning, you probably want to use part. If it doesnt make sense once you remove the a, you probably want to use apart. For example, I am part of this community. (CORRECT) This sentence still makes sense once we remove the a, so we want to use part. The rocks fell 30 feet part. (WRONG) Here the sentence doesnt make sense once we remove the a, so we want to use apart. Finally, a reader recently tweeted me a cute mnemonic to remember the difference. It goes, A part of me cant bear to be apart from you. Any of these tricks can help you remember the grammar of a partvs. apart. Summary Is it apart or a part?Apartis an adverb, meaning, separated or separately. Usually paired with from. A part is a noun, meaning, a piece of segment of something. Usually paired with of. Answers What Are Maintenance Expenses?planet 7 free spins 2020 The term maintenance expense refers to any cost incurred by an individual or business to keep their assets in good working condition. These costs may be spent for the general maintenance of items like running anti-virus software on computer systems or they may be used for repairs such as fixing a car or machinery. These expenses are in addition to the actual purchase price of an asset, so individuals and companies should be able and willing to foot the bill in order to keep their assets in running order. Understanding Maintenance Expenses Consumers who purchase assets should expect to pay maintenance expenses at some point in the future if they want to use them over a period of time. As mentioned earlier, these costs are incurred in order to keep an individual or company's assets in good working order. How much an individual pays in maintenance expenses depends on the type of asset and how often upkeep is required and performed. Individuals may incur maintenance costs for homes, automobiles, appliances, and electronics, while businesses pay for maintenance on their fixed assetsvehicles, equipment, facilitiesand their technology. Keeping up to date with regular maintenance can keep costs down because the asset is serviced on a timely basis. Neglecting assets and waiting until the last minute to service them may result in higher maintenance costs. If the asset isn't maintained at all, the owner may have to replace it altogether. Key Takeaways Maintenance expenses are necessary costs for upkeepwhether it's a car, home, rental apartment, or condominium. Neglecting regular maintenanceand not paying expenses for upkeepmay result in higher maintenance costs and, even worse, replacement costs for the asset itself. Individuals pay for maintenance on things like homes, automobiles, and appliances, while companies pay for upkeep on fixed assets and technology. Special Considerations Consumers should consider the initial price tag as well as the item's ongoing maintenance expenses when they purchase an item that requires upkeep. This is why it's always a good idea for any consumer to set some money aside for maintenance expenses. Failure to do so may result in financial distress when it comes time to pay for these charges in the future. It's always a good idea to have money set aside for the regular maintenance of your assets. Types of Maintenance Expenses As mentioned above, maintenance expenses depend on the type of asset held. Maintenance expenses for homes include lawn care, plumbing, electrical, and roof repairs as well as replacement of worn-out appliances. Homeowners must also pay premiums for hazard insurance. This expense protects the owner from damage to the home from natural events like severe storms, fires, tornados, and earthquakes. Landlords and Tenants Most of the maintenance expenses for a rental property are the landlord's responsibility. Snow removal, sewage, trash pickup, lawn care as well as the sidewalks, windows, and any exterior expense falls to the landlord to pay. If the apartment or rental home is furnished, any replacement or repair of the furniture is the landlords responsibility. Cleaning or replacement of any carpeting, as well as painting, is also paid by the landlord. Government regulations require landlords to maintain certain safety and living standards. For example, the heat in an apartment building must meet minimum standards. The infrastructure, such as heating and ventilation, must be adequately maintained by the landlord. Some of the upkeep and maintenance may fall on the tenant. The rental agreement should define what expenses are the renter's responsibility. Condo Fees Monthly fees are common for people who own condominiums. Condo fees can range from $50 to $1,000 depending on the property, building, and location. If the building has a concierge, swimming pool, tennis courts, or gym, those costs are built into the monthly condo fee. Buyers who want maintenance-free living should consider the monthly fees when calculating their affordability and the potential mortgage payment for the condominium. If, for example, the mortgage payment is $1,500 per month while the condo fee is $600 per month, the condo fee represents nearly 30% of the total monthly payments to live there. Example of Maintenance Expenses Owning a vehicle requires regular maintenanceoil changes, tire rotation, engine flushes. Can owners can enjoy their vehicles by keeping up to date with and paying for these expenses on a timely and regular basis. People who don't maintain their vehicles or wait too long may have to pay more in maintenance and may even have to pay the replacement cost for a new vehicle. What Is an Application Programming Interface (API)?all in one casino bet9ja com sport An application programming interface (API) is a set of programming codes that queries data, parse responses, and sends instructions between one software platform and another. APIs are used extensively in providing data services across a range of fields and contexts. APIs have become increasingly popular tools, with the likes of Meta (formerly Facebook), Amazon, SalesForce, and many more establishing their own APIs that allow companies to access some of their services without having to fully migrate into their ecosystem. This new paradigm has led to the rise of what some experts call the "API economy," a model that enhances a companys bottom line by improving interoperability and thus creating new systems from existing ones. In the domain of financial markets and trading, one may use an API to establish a connection between a set of automated trading algorithms and the trader's preferred trading broker platform for the purpose of obtaining real-time quotes and pricing data or to place electronic trades. Key Takeaways An application programming interface (API) establishes an online connection between a data provider and an end-user. For financial markets, APIs interface trading algorithms or models and an exchange's and/or broker's platform. An API is essential to implementing an automated trading strategy. More brokers are making their platforms available through an API. Understanding Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) APIs have become increasingly popular with the rise of automated trading systems. In the past, retail traders were forced to screen for opportunities in one application and separately place trades with their broker. Many retail brokers now provide APIs that enable traders to directly connect their screening software with the brokerage account to share real-time prices and place orders. Traders can even develop their own applications using programming languages like Python and execute trades using a broker's API. Two types of traders use broker APIs: Third-Party Applications - Many traders use third-party applications that require access to broker APIs for pricing data and placing trades. For example, MetaTrader is one of the most popular foreign exchange (forex) trading applications and requires API access to secure real-time pricing and place trades. - Many traders use third-party applications that require access to broker APIs for pricing data and placing trades. For example, MetaTrader is one of the most popular foreign exchange (forex) trading applications and requires API access to secure real-time pricing and place trades. Developer Applications- A growing number of traders develop their own automated trading systems, using programming languages like Python, and require a way to access pricing data and place trades. Despite the apparent benefits of APIs, there are many risks to consider. Most APIs are provided to a broker's customers free of charge, but there are some cases where traders may incur an extra fee. It's important to understand these fees before using the API. Traders should also be aware of any API limitations, including the potential for downtime, which could significantly affect trading results. Where to Find APIs for Traders The most popular brokers supporting API access in the traditional stock and futures markets include TradeStation, TDAmeritrade, and InteractiveBrokers, but many smaller brokers have expanded access over time. APIs are more common among forex brokers where third-party applications and trading systemssuch as MetaTraderhave been commonly used for many years. Many brokers provide online documentation for their APIs. Developers can find out exactly how to authenticate with the API, what data is available for consumption, how to place orders through the API, and other technical details. It's essential to be familiar with these details before choosing a broker when looking for specific functionality. Some brokers also provide libraries in various languages to make interaction with their API easier. For example, a broker may offer a Python library that provides a set of functions, or methods, for placing a trade rather than having to write your own functions to do so. This can help accelerate the development of trading systems and make them less costly to develop. Directional adverbs are, intuitively, adverbs that specify direction. They modify verbs by giving more detail about how they are performed. You can count backward from 100 or forward from 100, but only by counting backward will you ever reach 0. American English writers and British English writers treat their directional adverbs differently. The British typically add an -s to the end of these words, forming upwards, downwards, skywards, towards, etc. Americans are just fine without the -s, leaving their directional adverbs as upward, downward, skyward, toward, and the like. What about when these words are also adjectives, like backward? Continue reading to learn more about the multiple uses of this particular directional adverb. What is the Difference Between Backward and Backwards? In this post, I will compare backwards vs. backward. I will use each of these words in at least one example sentence, so that you can see them in context. Plus, I will also show you a helpful memory tool that makes choosing either backwards or backward a little easier. When to Use Backward What does backward mean? Backward can be either an adjective or an adverb. As an adjective, backwardmeans regressive or underdeveloped. Here are a few examples, The administrations backward policies will undo 50 years of social progress. In a backward little town in Iowa, a tall farmer was working on his swing. Backward is also a directional adverb. It is the opposite of forward, namely, the direction behind someone. For example, Kenny accidentally dropped the basketball, and it rolled backward all the way down the hill. Dick Richards glanced backward to ensure no one was following him, then lit a cigarette. A pair of otherwise distinguished physicists have suggested that the hypothesized Higgs boson, which physicists hope to produce with the collider, might be so abhorrent to nature that its creation would ripple backward through time and stop the collider before it could make one, like a time traveler who goes back in time to kill his grandfather. The New York Times There are some usage differences to remember. In British English, backward is only an adjective. The British typically add an -s to the end of their directional adverbs. In this case, the resulting word is backwards. When to Use Backwards What does backwards mean? Backwards is a directional adverb. It has the same definition as backward above, but it primarily appears in British English. Check out the charts below. They discovered that when dragging food backwards, the ants periodically stopped, put the giant crumb down, and walked around in a little loop. The Guardian American English: British English: I have isolated the use of backwardvs. backwardsas adverbs by graphing fall backward and fall backwards. Americans clearly prefer backward. Conversely, British English writers prefer backwards. The graphs arent 100 percent exhaustive in their scope, since they only look at books published in English since 1800, but they clearly illustrate long-term usage trends. Trick to Remember the Difference If you are using the word as an adjective, the choice is clear: only backward is an adjective. With adverbs, though, its a little trickier. Americans prefer backward as an adjective as well, while the British are likely to prefer backwards. Since backwards has an S, like the British county of Surrey, you can always remember that backwards is the British adverb. Summary Is it backward or backwards? Backward is an adjective that means regressive or underdeveloped. It is also a directional adverb in American English. In British English, it becomes backwards as a directional adverb, so keep your audience in mind when choosing one of these words. To summarize, Dagda (the 'good hand' or 'good god'), father of Danu, played the spring season into being with his harp. An Introduction to Mythology|Lewis Spence Danu, mother of the race, was considered as a daughter of Dagda. An Introduction to Mythology|Lewis Spence So, too, the identity of Danu and Brigit might be explained, or the fact that there were three Brigits. The Religion of the Ancient Celts|J. A. MacCulloch Representatives vote during a UN Security Council meeting at the UN headquarters in New York,rolletto no deposit bonus Nov. 15, 2022. The Security Council on Tuesday decided to adopt Resolution 2661, which extended Resolution 2607 by two days, until Nov. 17. (Loey Felipe/UN Photo/Handout via Xinhua) UNITED NATIONS, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- The Security Council on Tuesday decided to adopt Resolution 2661, which extended Resolution 2607 by two days, until Nov. 17. Recalling all its previous resolutions and statements of its president on the situation in Somalia, the 15-member council, acting under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations, unanimously adopted a rollover draft, in which it decided to remain actively seized of the matter. To enforce an arms embargo on Somalia, the Security Council on Nov. 15, 2021 decided to reauthorize a maritime interdiction of illicit weapons imports and charcoal exports, while renewing the mandate of the Panel of Experts on Somalia. Adopting Resolution 2607, the council renewed and expanded the provisions set out in paragraph 15 of Resolution 2182 until Nov. 15, 2022. June 4,twenty one casino Jinan Middle School in Shandong, students of the graduating class completed the final lesson of high school. They will take the college entrance examination on June 7. The last lesson of high schooladded by chinatimesonline on View all posts by chinatimesonline There are countless English words with multiple variations. Some of these words, like toward and towards,are really no different. They are used in the exact same way, just by different audiences. Other words, however, are used in different ways or one variant is universally considered incorrect. Therefore, in order for your writing to excel, its important to know which variations of words are considered standard and which variations are considered nonstandard. What is the Difference Between Anyway and Anyways? Today, I want to talk about the differences between anyway vs. anyways, how to use them in a sentence, and which is the correct choice. After reading this post you shouldnt ever wonder again, is it anyway or anyways? When to Use Anyway: Is Anyway a Word? Anyway is an adverb with a few different meanings. In any case; at least. Im not sure if we have any wood for a fire; Its raining outside anyway. Nevertheless; Regardless. It was snowing and the temperature was below freezing, but the game went on anyway. Anyway is the more common of the two words and educated writers and speakers use it almost exclusively. When to Use Anyways: Is Anyways a Word? Anyways is a nonstandard dialect and informal variation of the word anyway. When used, it also functions as an adverb. You wouldnt understand anyways. Anyways, its time for a new focus. Whatever you say. That was a dumb idea anyways. Anywaysis almost universally regarded as being incorrect and not fit for print or publication. And the usage of anyways vs. anyway actually bears this out. The below chart shows just how widespread the distaste for the nonstandard anywaysis. Anywaysis used with such little frequency when compared to anywaythat you can barely even see the line leave the zero percent mark. Anyway vs. Any way: Is Anyway One Word? With all of this talk of picking anyways or anyway, what about any way(two words)? How do I know when to use anyway or any way? As discussed above, anywayis an adverb. If we define anyway, it usually means regardlessor in any case. I told you that that was my fault, and we fixed the problem anyway. Im not sure if I lost it or it was stolen. Anyway, its gone now. Any way (two separate words) is simply the word waymodified by the adjective any. When the words are next to each other, they form a paired adjective and noun with the meaning any particular course, direction, or manner. Are you able to help in any way at all? Is there any way that you can be on time tonight? Some people are willing to win any way necessary. Some dictionaries will point to an overlap between anywayand any way, stating that both can be used to mean in any way or manner; whatever, but I personally like to keep both uses separate. Remember the Difference If you ever forget which word is the correct choice, just remember that the S in anyways can stand for slang. And if you are writing for a professional audience or for publication, slang words are not appropriate. Summary The two words anywayand anywaysare both adverbs and are used in the same way, but anywaysis widely considered incorrect and is not standard English usage. Anywayis the correct word choice. Anywaysis a colloquial variant of the word anyway. It is almost universally considered incorrect. Any way(two words) means any particular course, direction, or manner. What Is Main Street?jackpot bonus play promotion Main Street is a colloquial term used by economists to refer collectively to America's independent small businesses. It gets its name from a common name for the principal commercial street of small towns across the country. In England, the equivalent term is High Street. In another context, the term Wall Street versus Main Street, with the former referring to big business and high finance. Nevertheless, those involved in big business and high finance spend a considerable amount of time trying to understand what products, fashions, brands, and trends succeed or fail on Main Street. More generally, the term Main Street has been used to refer to small-town American traditions or historic business districts. In the finance world, the time Main Street is used to describe small and mid-sized businesses as part of a local economy. Key Takeaways The term Main Street is used in many contexts, but it always means local. Local businesses, consumers, and financial services firms may be referred to as Main Street. The polar opposite of Main Street is Wall Street and the big financial firms and global corporations it represents. In London, Main Street is called High Street. There are numerous grants and loan opportunities for Main Street businesses. Understanding Main Street Main Street may be the most common street name in the United States. According to the U.S. Small Business Association, as of March 2020, there are 31.7 million small businesses, the backbone of local Main Streets across America, in the United States. The coronavirus pandemic hit small businesses hard, so while the data isn't out as of September 2021, some small businesses in the 2020 count may not have survived. In the financial world, Main Street is often cited as the opposite of Wall Street. It may be used to describe the individual small investor as opposed to the professional securities trader. This can lead to some very unpleasant attitudes on one side or both. For example, some Wall Street traders stereotype Main Street investors as dabblers in a game they can't understand. Main Street investors may see Wall Street traders as crooks with a void where their souls are supposed to be. The unfortunate fact is that both sides have a high degree of dependence on the other. Wall Street depends on individual investors to generate the capital and fees that keep the lights on. Main Street needs Wall Street to earn a better rate of return than a savings account, or a municipal bond can offer. Unfortunately, this mutual dependence doesn't resolve the conflicts between the two. The term Main Street may refer to an independently-owned business as opposed to a global corporation. Types of Main Street Businesses When a business is described as a "Main Street" shop, it usually is a brick-and-mortar store located on the main thoroughfare or block in a village or town. A Main Street business is not a chain store but rather a store that provides goods or services in a personalized fashion. Main Street stores often cater to tourists and locals, especially in picturesque locations. Of course, small businesses run the gamut and include pharmacies, hair salons, non-chain greengrocers, clothing boutiques, coffee shops, book stores, bakeries, and specialty stores, like toy shops. The pandemic contributed to the decline of many Main Street businesses, such as restaurants and bars. However, as the economy slowly bounces back in 2021. In particular, coffee shops and breweries represent a sizeable chunk of Main Street businesses as the craft industry continues to grow. Main Street vs. Wall Street Main Street may also describe a small, independent investment company instead of one globally recognized Wall Street investment firm. Wall Street firms tend to serve institutions and large investors with multi-million dollar assets. Main Street firms provide personalized financial planning and investing services to professionals and families in their locale. Some people insist that what's good for Wall Street is bad for Main Street and vice versa. For example, regulations designed to protect Main Street investors are seen as hampering Wall Street's ability to innovate and profit. On the other hand, Wall Street compensation practices and trading strategies encourage short-term results and greater risk-taking. Of course, when Wall Street and Main Street do work together, things can go wrong. This was seen in the financial crisis that hit in 2008 when lenders and borrowers on Main Street created a bubble in housing prices that burst on Wall Street. The result was called the Great Recession. So, we want Main Street and Wall Street to get along, but perhaps not too well. Divide Between Main Street and Wall Street During a crisis, Wall Street valuations may soar while Main Street business owners may struggle. For example, when the pandemic hit in March 2020, people flocked online to order food, home goods, medical supplies, and entertainment. During this time, many Main Street restaurants and stores were shuttered or only allowing take-out or a few masked customers in at a time. Corporations like Walmart and Target found themselves making money due to customers buying in bulk and having items delivered. Small stores could not compete, especially shops in tourist towns or neighborhoods where storeowners' livelihoods depend on visitors from out of town. Even retailers in villages and towns with a robust local economy struggled against competition from Big Box stores and Amazon. Investing in Main Street vs. Wall Street Suppose you want to support Main Street beyond spending your money locally. In that case, you can invest in Main Streets smaller entrepreneurs and businesses directly now through peer-to-peer lending and crowdfunding sites. For example, you can invest money via an investment platform like Mainvest, which supports brick and mortar Main Street businesses, or Localstake, a crowdfunding platform, where you can invest in small businesses as well. Main Street investments are somewhat different from traditional Wall Street investment vehicles like stocks, ETFs, or mutual funds, but the same rules apply. There is a more inherent risk in investing in small start-ups or businesses versus putting investment dollars in more robust stock portfolios with large corporations. Small businesses like a toy or book store, barbershop, or local deli, are not listed on the stock market, but you can invest in them via crowdfunding for peer-to-peer lending. Heavy hitters like Amazon, Walmart, Apple, and Google are driving the stock market, which can rise even your neighborhood Main Street shops are going out of business. Small business owners should investigate the numerous grants complied and listed by the National Main Street Center. Main Street and Government Programs Main Street Lending Program There are government programs designed specifically to support Main Street businesses. During the Covid-19 pandemic on April 9, 2020, the government created the Main Street Lending Program to support small-to-mid-sized nonprofits and businesses with $600 billion in loans. Main Street America In addition to federal loan programs, there are also grants and loans available to small business owners via nonprofits. One of these is Main Street America, an off-shoot program of the nonprofit National Main Street Center, Inc, a subsidiary of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. On its website, Main Street America offers a compilation of private grants, crowdsourcing, peer-to-peer lending, and federal services and funding opportunities available to Main Street businesses. The Bottom Line Small business is imperative for Main Streets to flourish in the U.S. because strong local economies usually indicate a better quality of life, especially in small towns. While the Covid-19 pandemic hit small businesses hard, government loan programs provided much-needed support. Thriving local economies, whether in small, rural towns or large urban areas, offer a healthier environment for communities to flourish. Investing in Main Street isn't just about money, and it can be as simple as shopping local regularly, which contributes to the revitalization of towns and city neighborhoods. Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) Line Magnetic ink character recognition (MICR) is blackjack rules and strategya technology used primarily to identify and process checks. The MICR on a check is the string of characters that appears at the bottom left of the check. It consists of three groups of numbers, including the bank routing number, the customer's account number, and the check number. The MICR includes, from left, a nine-character routing number, a 12-character account number, and a four-character check number. It is called a magnetic ink character recognition line in reference to the print technology that is used to enable a machine to read, process, and record information. Key Takeaways Magnetic ink character recognition is the string of characters at the bottom left of a personal check that includes the account, routing, and check numbers. MICR numbers are designed to be readable by both individuals and sorting equipment. They can't be faked or copied, due to the use of magnetic ink and unique fonts. The benefits of the technology include enhanced security against fraud and mechanization of check processing. MICR was developed in the late 1950s and is now in use globally. How the Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) Line Works The magnetic ink character recognition line enables a computer to rapidly read and record numbers or other information from printed documents, such as a personal check. In this case, that information is a check number, routing number, and account number. The system was developed by the American Bankers Association (ABA) in the late 1950s and was later recognized as an industry standard by the American National Standards Institute. The MICR number, which is sometimes confused with just the account number, is printed on the check using magnetic ink or toner, less than an inch above the bottom of the document. The magnetic ink allows a computer to read the characters even if they have been covered with signatures, cancellation marks, bank stamps, or other marks. MICR lines help facilitate automatic check-clearing when banks send their checks to central processing systems at the end of the day. They are designed to be easily read by people as well, so that check information can be communicated easily. The numbers are usually printed in one of two specially-designed fonts, called E-13B and CMC-7. Both are used worldwide, with the E-13B used primarily in North America, Australia, and the United Kingdom. The CMC-7 font is mainly used in Europe and parts of South America. MICR Check Scanner Every check sent is processed by a clearinghouse or a bank, or both. They validate the check and finalize the transaction, deducting the correct amount from one account and crediting it to another. A single check may be processed several times at different banks and Federal Reserve Centers. Part of that process is reading the identifying information on the check. The MICR line mechanized that process. A scanner, or reader-sorter computerized machine, is used to process the information magnetically printed on the checks, including routing number, account number, and check number. During the clearing process, a check may be read several times at extremely high speeds. A single reading takes less than 1/1000ths of a second, according to Troy Group, a producer of MICR-adapted printers and related products. MICR is the reason why checks are so uniform in their format. The layout of the check and the position of the data on it must be rigidly placed so that it can be read by the machines. Special Considerations While magnetic ink character recognition was first used to print information on checks, the technology has been adapted to other applications. A variety of financial documents in the United States are encoded with MICR technology. Credit card invoices, direct mail, coupons used for rebates, and negotiable orders of withdrawal (NOWs) may also use the technology. Benefits of the MICR Line One of the benefits of the magnetic ink character recognition line is its ability to facilitate the use of a routing number to process checks and deduct the payment amounts. A routing number or routing transit number is a nine-digit numerical code which banking and other financial institutions use to clear funds and process checks. The routing number identifies the bank branch that holds the account from which funds are to be drawn. Wire transfers and direct deposits often rely on routing numbers as well. Detecting Fraud Combating fraud is a constant battle in the financial services industry. The definition of fraud is an intentionally deceptive action that is designed to provide the perpetrator with an unlawful gain. A range of fraud types exists, including tax fraud, credit card fraud, wire fraud, securities fraud, and bankruptcy fraud. The magnetic ink character recognition line makes some forms of financial fraud difficult by using tamper-proof magnetic ink and unique fonts. Thus, MICR makes it difficult to alter checks. Check altering generally entails changing the name of the payee or the amount of the check, or both. Section 3-407 of the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), a set of business laws that regulate financial contracts, breaks down the term alterationeven further, with nine articles dealing with separate aspects of banking and loans. For instance, a fraudster may attempt to cash a photocopied check through a teller at a bank branch. The photocopied MICR line immediately alerts the teller that the check is fake. Since MICR technology helps detect and prevent fraud, banks and other financial institutions use it to minimize losses. The routing number, account number, and check number combine to create a unique identifier for each check. Frequently Asked Questions What Is a MICR Number? A magnetic ink character recognition line (MICR) is a line of characters on a check printed with a unique ink that allows the characters to be read by a reader-sorter machine. Introduction of the MICR reader-sorter process allowed check processing to be automated while making it more difficult to counterfeit checks. How Is MICR Used in Banks? The MICR system has been in use since the late 1950s. It was a notable improvement because it allowed for the mechanization of check processing while making it more difficult to commit check fraud. Banks around the globe adopted the system. This is why the format of bank checks is so uniform. It has to be in order for the readers to read the MICR numbers. What Is MICR Data on a Check? The string of characters at the bottom left of a check identifies the bank branch that it is issued from, the account number of the payer, and the number of the account holder's check in a consecutive series. From left, the line displays the following information: The nine-character routing number that identifies the bank branch The 12-character account number that identifies the payer The four-character check number that indicates which check in a series that the account holder has used. It looks like this: 000000000 000000000000 0000 The Bottom Line Magnetic ink character recognition is still around some 70 years after it was developed because it solved two big problems faced by banks: The processing of checks had to be mechanized, and fraud had to be made more difficult. Its three components, including a routing number, an account number, and a check number, together are a unique identifier of a check and the person who signed it. Just as importantly, it is printed using a special ink and custom fonts that make fakes difficult if not impossible to create. Twitter M.F.A., Creative Writing, Manchester Metropolitan University Diploma in Translation (IoLet Level 7, Russian), Chartered Institute of Linguists The nominative case in Russian (imeNEEtelny paDYEZH)is the basic case and serves to identify the subject of a verb. All nouns and pronouns in Russian dictionaries are given in the nominative case. This case answers the questions / (ktoh/chtoh), which translate as who/what. Quick Tip The nominative case in Russian identifies the subject of a sentence and answers the questions / (ktoh/chtoh), meaning who/what. Its equivalent in English is any noun or pronoun that is the subject of a verb. When to Use the Nominative Case The nominative case can be dependent or independent. Independent Nominative Case The independent nominative case can be used as: The subject of a sentence (fulfills the nominative function) Examples: - . (afTOboos padYEkhal) - The bus arrived. - . (LAMpah zazhGLAS') - The lamp/light came on. In both of these sentences, the noun is in the nominative case and is the subject of the sentence. A noun or pronoun in a one-word nominative sentence (fulfills the nominative function) Examples: - . (noch) - Night. - . (zeeMAH) - Winter. A vocative, that is, a word or a sentence that is used to address someone directly, usually by their name, using intonation to include emphasis or specific meaning. Examples: - , . (naTAsha, vaz'MEE TROOPkoo) - Natasha, pick up (the phone). - ! (LYOsha!) - Lyosha! (affectionate or shortened form of the name Alexei) Dependent Nominative Case The dependent nominative case is used as: Part of a complex nominative predicate, meaning that a noun or a pronoun is used together with a verb to form a predicate. Sometimes the verb itself is replaced with an em dash. Examples: - . (kaNYETS - DYEloo VYEnets) - All is well that ends well. - . (OHN - ooCHEEtel') - He is a teacher. As an additional nominative ( - prilaZHEniye), which is a noun or a pronoun that adds information to another noun, including proper names. Examples: - - . (moy kaLYEga-angliCHAnin ny lyuBIL aPAZdyvat') - My colleague the Englishman didn't like to be late. - "-" . (zhoorNAL New-Yorker napyCHAtal yeYOH stat'YUH) - The New Yorker Magazine published her article. Nominative Case Endings What Are Declensions? Before we look at the endings in the nominative case, it is important to understand what we mean by declensions in the Russian language. Most Russian parts of speech, including nouns, are declined by numbers (singular/plural), cases, and sometimes genders. When deciding which ending to use when declining a noun by case, you should look at what declensionit is rather than what gender, as it is the declension that will determine the correct ending. There are three main noun declensions in Russian: 1st Declension: Includes all feminine nouns that end in / as well as masculine and common nouns that end in / when in the singular nominative form. Example: - (DYEvachka) - A girl 2nd Declension: Includes masculine nouns that have a "zero ending" in the singular nominative form and neuter nouns that end in / in singular nominative form. A "zero ending" is an ending that is not present in a word's current form, although other endings are present in the word's other forms. Example: - (singular, masculine, ending in a "zero ending"). (kon') - A horse 3rd Declension: Feminine nouns with a zero ending in the singular nominative form. Example: - (singular, feminine, ending in a "zero ending"). (pyech) - A stove Additionally, a group of nouns that change their endings outside of the usual rules are called heteroclitic and can be considered to form a "fourth" declension. Declension () Singular ( ) Examples Plural ( ) Examples First declension -, - (semYA) - family, feminine (PApa) - Dad, masculine -, - (SYEMyee) - families, feminine, plural (PApy) - Dads, masculine, plural Second declension "zero ending," -, - o (stol) - table, masculine, "zero ending" (akNOH) - window, neuter -, -, -, - (staLYH) - tables, masculine,plural (OKnah) - windows, neuter, plural Third declension "zero ending" (noch) - night, feminine, "zero ending" - (NOchi) - nigths, feminine, plural Heteroclitic nouns - (VRYEmya) - time, neuter - (vyremeNAH) - times, neuter, plural Examples: - . (NAsha syemYA LYUbit atdyHAT' na MOrye) - My family likes to go on vacation to the seaside. - . (dvyer' MYEDlena atvaREElas') - The door opened slowly. - . (my DOLga braDEEli pa GOradoo) - We wandered around the city for a long time. - - . (NAshi PApy - oochityeLYA) - Our Dads are teachers. - . (pyech yeSHO DOLga tyepLEElas') - The stove remained warm for a while longer. - ! (kaKEEye TYOPlyye NOchi zdyes') - The nights are so warm here! - . (vryemeNAH syCHAS taKEEye) - These are the times now. Popular casino operator Melco Crown Entertainment Ltd. announced its decision to remove its shares from the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.The company pointed to cost and utility as the main reason for this step. On Friday, January 2, the Macau-based gaming operator filed an application for its voluntary withdrawal. The company stated in a special filing that it will keep the listing of American Depository Shares(ADSs) on the NASDAQ Stock Market. Yet, it did not give specific information on when the delisting will take place. Back in 2014, the price of Melco Crowns stocks on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange dropped by 35%. They reached HK$65.75 or US$8.48 per sharetowards the end of the year. Yesterday, January 2, the companys shares fell 2.7%. Currently, the gaming operator is working on the expansionof its City of Dreams casino resort on the Cotai Strip. What is more, it is busy with the construction of Studio City, which is planned to open doors sometime in the middle of 2015. Melco Crown is also a major partner in City of Dreams Manila, a multimillion project that had its soft launch in mid-December. After the delisting takes place, shareholders in the company will be given the opportunity toeither keep their shares or to convert those into ADSs. The Macau-based casino operator pointed out that one of the main reasons for its decision to leave the Hong Kong Stock Exchange is the fact that trading volume on that particular market is very limited. In addition, the company said that Hong Kong did not offer many opportunitiesso as for it to be able to raise its equity capital. Melco Crown also shared that the maintenance of shares in Hong Kong involved extra costs and additional administrative procedures. The company needs the approval of its shareholdersso as to be able to leave Hong Kong. An approval from the listing committee of the stock exchange is also necessary. All six gaming operators that hold casino licenses in Macau are listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Melco Crown is the only one that is listed on the NASDAQ Stock Market as well. The company listed its ADSs on the NASDAQ Global Market back in December 2006. Since January 2009, they have been traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market.It is good to mention that each ADS stands for a total of three shares. On November 30, 2011, Melco Crown announced its dual primary listing by means of introduction on the main board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. In December 2014, the company was removed from the NASDAQ Q-50 Index. The reason for this was its not so satisfactoryperformance on the stock market. There are a lot of confusing words in the English language, and the two words efficiency vs. effectiveness are no strangers to confusion. People in any number of fields mix them up, so, whether youre in business management or on the factory floor, youre likely to see and hear mix ups with these words. What is the Difference Between Efficiency and Effectiveness? Which word should I use, efficiency or effectiveness? In this post, I want to discuss the differences between efficiency and effectiveness. I will go over their definitions and their functions within a sentence; I will use example sentences, so you can see exactly how they differ; and I will reveal an easy trick to keep track of the two for your future writing. After reading this post, you shouldnt ever mix up effectiveness and efficiency again. When to Use Efficiency Efficiency is a noun that means the quality or property of being efficient. And efficient means producing with a minimum of waste, expense, or unnecessary effort. We are producing more cars this year due to an increase in efficiency. The fuel efficiency of my motorcycle is much higher than my truck. The new manager restructured his department with great speed and efficiency. In this sense of the word, the focus of efficiency centers on howsomething is done. Whether or not a task is done with minimal waste or minimal effort is the primary concern if you use the word efficiency. The adjective efficient does have one additional sense, however, which might be the reason for the confusion between todays two words. The second definition of efficientbears no economic implications, as does the first. It is defined as acting directly to produce an effect. The efficient cause of the revolution was the assassination of the king. In this sense, efficientdescribes the cause or reason that something else is happening. The efficient cause in our example was the kings assassination, which led to a revolution. See more on this here. When to Use Effectiveness Effectiveness is also a noun and is defined as the degree to which something is successful in producing a desired result. I am not sure of the effectiveness of that diet plan. His effectiveness as a public speaker is outstanding. The effectiveness of this procedure is still widely debated. As is the case with other similar words, the difference between effectivenessand efficiencyhas to do with whether or not something is produced at all and howsomething is produced. Effectiveness focuses more on whether or not something can be accomplished at all, while efficiencyfocuses on howto get it done in a way that minimizes waste or time. If you were to call someone an effective speaker (as we did in the above example), you might think of someone who is convincing or persuasive, someone whom people understand, someone who is relatable, etc. Conversely, if you were to call someone an efficient speaker, you might think of someone who says what needs to be said and nothing more. He gets to the point and is done. As you can see, these words clearly evoke a very different kind of speaker, so its important not to mix them up. Trick to Remember the Difference If you dont think you can remember all this, dont worry. Here is a handy trick to remember the meaning of efficiency and effectiveness. Think of the word efficiencyas a science: the science of minimizing waste, time or effort. Science and Efficiency have similar internal spellings, both containing CIENC. When thinking about effectiveness, take a look at what word is inside of it: effective. Effectivenessis the degree to which you are effective, whether or not you can get things done. Summary The two words effectiveness vs. efficiency broadly relate to each other, but they have different meanings. Efficiencyhas a primarily economic sense. Effectivenessdeals with the degree to which something can produce a desired effect. The Dakotan was said to be unfit for a soldier because he was twenty pounds under weight for his height. The Hive|Will Levington Comfort In some features of structure the Dakotan languages present an amazing diversity. The Dakotan Languages, and Their Relations to Other Languages|Andrew Woods Williamson All of the Dakotan tribes and some others formerly made and baked pottery similar to that found in the mounds of the Ohio valley. The Dakotan Languages, and Their Relations to Other Languages|Andrew Woods Williamson What Is a Ledger Wallet?htft prediction my bets today Ledger wallets are hardware cryptocurrency wallets made by Ledger, a company headquartered in Paris, France. In the U.S., the company has offices in San Francisco, California. Ledger was launched in 2014 by eight experts who had backgrounds in embedded security, cryptocurrencies, and entrepreneurship. The company's goal is to create secure solutions for blockchain applications. Pascal Gauthier is the company's chief executive officer (CEO). The company has over 130 employees. Key Takeaways Ledger wallets are hardware cryptocurrency wallets made by Ledger, a company headquartered in Paris, France. Ledger's hardware wallets are multicurrency wallets that are used to store private keys for cryptocurrencies offline. Ledger offers two hardware wallets: the Ledger Nano S and the Ledger Nano X wallets. Click Play to Learn All About Using Blockchain Wallets How a Ledger Wallet Works 1:41 Ledger's hardware wallets are multicurrency wallets that are used to store private keys for cryptocurrencies offline. Conducting transactions using cryptocurrencies requires the use of cryptographic private keys. But these keys, which are generally stored online, are susceptible to thefts and hacks. Cryptocurrency users have developed alternative systems for storage. These include hot wallets (which are online), mobile wallets (wallets in smartphones), and paper wallets (stored on paper). Hardware wallets are a form of offline storage. A hardware wallet is a cryptocurrency wallet that stores the user's private keys (a critical piece of information used to authorize outgoing transactions on the blockchain network) in a secure hardware device. Ledger's hardware wallets are device-based, which means they use storage mechanismsUSB drivesto store private keys, thereby making it difficult for hackers to access the key from an online location. Ledger offers two hardware wallets: the Ledger Nano S and the Ledger Nano X wallets. Both wallets are USB storage wallets that enable users to perform a wide variety of functions, including sending and receiving bitcoin from blockchains or running third-party apps on the device. For example, users can run universal two-factor authentication on popular sites, such as Google and Dropbox, using the wallets. All Ledger products combine a Secure Element and a proprietary operating system that is designed specifically to protect a user's cryptocurrency assets. These wallets also use a 24-word backup recovery phrase that can be used to access a users cryptocurrencies if the device containing the private key is stolen. For the extra-cautious, the 24-word phrase can be etched into steel in a Billfodl, a device designed to hold your seeds and keys forever in a physical form. Ledger Nano S vs. Ledger Nano X In 2016, Ledger introduced the Ledger Nano S. This wallet has been called the original hardware wallet. The Ledger Nano S retails at $59.00 and can be used to buy cryptocurrencies and secure and manage assets. The Ledger Nano S integrates a certified secure chip and allows users to store between three and 20 applications. The Ledger Nano X was introduced in 2019. It retails at $119.00. It can also be used to buy cryptocurrencies and secure and manage assets. Like the Ledger Nano S, the Nano X also integrates a certified secure chip, but it allows users to store a greater number of applications (up to 100 applications). In addition, the Ledger Nano X has a Bluetooth connection so you can manage your cryptocurrency assets from anywhere. All Ledger wallets support 27 coins and more than 1,500 tokens. This list includes both prominent cryptocurrencies as well as lesser-known ones. PDF Playlist Justified Listen online A Day to Remember A Day to RememberA Day to Rememb (2 fans) A Day to Remember A Day to Remember is blacklisted financean American rock band from Ocala, Florida. Founded in 2003 by guitarist Tom Denney and drummer Bobby Scruggs, the band has released four studio albums, nine singles and eight music videos. They are mainly known for their unusual amalgamation of metalcore and pop punk as a musical style. The band consists of vocalist Jeremy McKinnon, rhythm guitarist and backing vocalist Neil Westfall, bassist Josh Woodard, percussion and drummer Alex Shelnutt and lead guitarist Kevin Skaff. more 3:58 1 View The easy, fast & fun way to learn how to sing: 30DaySinger.com Burn me alive, if you feel that's justifiedBurn me alive, if you feel that's justifiedBurn me alive, if you feel that's justifiedI need more than faithTo see you on the other side, the other sideCan you hear me? The lowly oneDo you fear me? You righteous onesBow down to all earth's creationEvery man of every nationWho's right and wrong at times like these?Burn me alive, if you feel that's justifiedI need more than faithTo see you on the other side, the other sideCan you hear me? The lowly oneDo you fear me? You righteous onesI believe in a life before deathThat happiness and virtue coexistAnd if you only believe to hedge the betYou're gonna pay your debtBurn me alive, if you feel that's justifiedI need more than faithTo see you on the other side, the other sideThe lowly ones need more than thisTo see you on the other side, the other sideBurn me aliveFeel nothing, leave nothingLearn nothing then be on your wayBe on your wayDo you fear me?You righteous onesCan you hear me? The lowly oneThe lowly one, the lowly ones What Is Magic Formula Investing?free greyhound racing tips for today Magic formula investing refers to a rules-based, disciplined investing strategy that teaches people a relatively simple and easy-to-understand method for value investing. It relies on quantitative screens of companies and stocks, and is designed to beat the stock market's average annual returns using the S&P 500 to represent the market return. Put simply, it works by ranking stocks based on their price and returns on capital. Magic formula investing tells you how to approach value investing from a methodical and unemotional perspective. Developed by Joel Greenblattan investor, hedge fund manager, and business professorthe formula applies to large-cap stocks but doesn't include any small or micro-cap companies. Key Takeaways Magic formula investing is a successfully back-tested strategy that can increase your chances of outperforming the market. The strategy focuses on screening for companies that fit specific criteria and uses a methodical, unemotional process to manage the portfolio over time. The strategy, which is value-based, was developed by investor and hedge fund manager Joel Greenblatt and published in The Little Book That Beat the Marketin 2005. It was updated in 2010 as The Little Book That Still Beats the Market. In the original publication, Greenblatt claimed annualized returns of over 30%. The magic formula excludes certain types of companies, such as those with a small market capitalization, foreign companies, finance companies, and utilities. Understanding Magic Formula Investing The magic formula strategy was first described in the 2005 best-selling book The Little Book That Beats the Marketand in the 2010 follow-up, The Little Book That Still Beats the Marketby investor Joel Greenblatt. Greenblatt, founder and former fund manager at Gotham Asset Management, is a graduate of the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. He is an adjunct professor at Columbia University's business school. In the book, Greenblatt outlines two criteria for stock investing: Stock price and company cost of capital. Instead of conducting fundamental analysis of companies and stocks, investors use Greenblatt's online stock screener tool to select the 20 to 30 top-ranked companies in which to invest. Company rankings are based on: Their stock's earnings which are calculated as earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT). Their yield, calculated as earnings per share (EPS) divided by the current stock price. Their return on capital measures how efficiently they generate earnings from their assets. Investors who use the strategy sell the losing stocks before they have held them for one year to take advantage of the income tax provision that allows investors to use losses to offset their gains. They sell the winning stocks after the one-year mark, in order to take advantage of reduced income tax rates on long-term capital gains. Then they start the process all over again. As Greenblatt stated in a 2006 interview with Barron's, the magic formula is designed to help investors with buying good companies, on average, at cheap prices, on average. Using this straightforward, non-emotional approach, investors screen for companies that are good prospects from a value investing perspective. Magic formula investing only factors in large cap stocks and doesn't include small cap companies. Requirements for Magic Formula Investing Since Greenblatts magic formula only applies to companies with market capitalizations greater than $100 million, it excludes small-cap stocks. The remainder will all be large companies but excludes financial companies, utility companies, and non-U.S. companies. The following points outline how the formula works: Set a minimum market capitalization for your portfolio companies. This should be typically higher than $100 million. Ensure you exclude any financial or utility stocks when you choose your companies. Exclude American Depository Receipts (ADRs). These are stocks in foreign companies. Calculate each company's earnings yield (EBIT Enterprise Value). Calculate each company's return on capital [EBIT (Net Fixed Assets + Working Capital)]. Rank selected companies by highest earnings yields and highest return on capital. Buy two to three positions each month in the top 20 to 30 companies, over the course of a year. Each year, rebalance the portfolio by selling off losers one week before the year term ends. Sell off winners one week after the year mark. Repeat the process each year for a minimum of five to 10 years or more. According to Greenblatt, his magic formula investing strategy has generated annual returns of 30%. Though they differ in their calculation of returns from the strategy, a number of independent researchers have found that the magical formula investing approach has appeared to show good results when backtested compared to the S&P 500. Advantages and Disadvantages of Magic Formula Investing The main advantage of the magic formula method is its simplicity: you don't need to be a trained investment specialist or Wall Street prodigy to invest effectively. All it takes is a few simple rules to find a basket of reliable investments. It also reduces emotional or irrational decision-making. However, contrary to its name, there's nothing magical about the magic formula, and it may not always be the best strategy. Some market tests of the formula have found lower-than-expected returns, possibly due to changing market dynamics or the increased number of investors following Greenblatt's method. In addition, some analysts claim to have improved the method by introducing additional variables, such as debt/equity ratios or dividend yields. Simple, easy-to-follow rules suitable for every investor. Facilitates rational, numbers-based investing without emotion or stress. Shows better-than-market returns in multiple backtests. Returns do not always match the high figures which Greenblatt achieved. Some analysts believe the method can be improved by introducing new variables, or rebalancing more frequently. Magic Formula Investing FAQs What Does Magic Formula Mean? Magic Formula AdvantagesMagic Formula Disadvantages Magic formula investing refers to a rules-based investing strategy that allows ordinary people to identify undervalued or outperforming companies. It was first described by Joel Greenblatt in The Little Book That Beat the Market in 2005. How Do You Use Magic Formula Investing? Magic formula investing uses a set of quantitative screens to eliminate certain companies, and ranks the remainder in order of highest yield and returns. By slowly building and rebalancing the portfolio every year, it is possible to achieve reasonably high returns. How Do You Calculate Magic Formula? The key metrics for investing with the magic formula method are the earnings yield and return on capital. Earnings yield is determined by dividing each company's earnings before interest and taxes by the total value of the enterprise. Return on capital is determined by dividing the company's EBIT by the sum of its net fixed assets and working capital. Does Magic Formula Investing Work? The magic formula can no longer boast returns of a 30% compound annual growth rate, but some studies nonetheless show favorable results. A backtest of market performance between 2003 and 2015 found that the magic formula strategy had annualized returns of 11.4%, compared with 8.7% from the S&P500. "This is clearly an outperformance of the benchmark," wrote the author of the backtest, "but by nowhere near as much as the Little Book claims." The Bottom Line The magic formula is a simple, rules-based system designed to bring high returns within reach of the average investor. By following a simple, algorithmic approach, the magic formula allows investors to easily identify outperforming or undervalued companies, without letting emotions or instinct cloud their judgment. While returns are now far lower than when the magic formula was first published, the method can still beat the market, especially with a few modifications. Danton [ dan-tn; French dahn-tawn ]/ dn tn; French dt / New Word List Save This mrbet canada yang lagi gacor slotWord! [ dan-tn; French dahn-tawn ]/ dn tn; French dt /Save ThisWord! nounGeorges Jacques [zhawrzh zhahk], /r k/, 175994, French Revolutionary leader. Words nearby Danton How to use Danton Danton/ (dntn, French dt) / nounGeorges Jacques (r k). 175994, French revolutionary leader: a founder member of the Committee of Public Safety (1793) and minister of justice (179294). He was overthrown by Robespierre and guillotined Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!QuestionDante, Dantean, Dante chair, Dantesque, danthonia, Danton, Danton, Georges, dantrolene, Danu, Danube, Danube RiverDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 dadah / (dd) / New Word List Save This silver oak no deposit bonus codes 2020Word! / (dd) /Save ThisWord! nounAustralian slang illegal drugs Words nearby dadah QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Question dadahMalay: medicinal herb-dactylous, dactylus, -dactyly, dad, dada, dadah, Dad and Dave, dad-blamed, dad-blasted, dad bod, dad-burnedCollins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 A recent headline in the Nevada Currentread,mobile wins casino no deposit bonus Nevadas lack of casino self-exclusion law par for state, say experts. That screamed an anti-gambling bias to me. At least, that is what I thought initially. Then I read the entire article. The story reveals the details of one persons experience, a compulsive gambler from California named Ray. According to Rays account, Wynn Resorts took advantage of his compulsion. After he told his host he was swearing off gambling, the host called and offered Ray incentives too tempting to resist. Ray returned to Las Vegas and lost $75,000. Anecdotes are not evidence of a problem beyond that of the individual case. Granted, that person suffered, but it does prove that all gamblers are preyed on by Nevada casinos. The Currentsays that according to experts, the practice of enticing unwilling gamblers to gamble is both legal and a regular practice in Nevada. Keith Whyte, the director of the National Council on Problem Gambling, said, Nevada takes a traditional approach Leave your money here and take your problems back home with you. Whyte noted that other states do better. At this point, the Currentis mixing apples and oranges. The incentives that lured Ray back to Las Vegas did not ignore his gambling problem. Rather, it was undocumented. The host knew Ray wanted to quit gambling, but not that he had an uncontrollable gambling problem. To the casino and the host, Ray was a very good customer. In the 21st century, virtually all casinos market to their best players with offers to entice them to visit the casino. That is not exclusive to casinos; most businesses, including supermarkets, use loyalty programs that function much the same as the casino version. My ex-wife had a personal host with Franklin Mint who called at least once a month with an exciting new offer. It worked. In businesses from banks to airlines, retail to media, as a consumers spending increases, so does targeted marketing. That is the apples. The oranges are a horse of a different color. Those people have compulsive behaviors and should be in a different and protected category. Certainly, in the gaming industry, that category requires special treatment. The Nevada Currents article makes an argument for a self-exclusion regulation in Nevada. The Current says that 34 states require a self-exclusion program. The policy differs from state to state, but all enable a person to declare he or she wishes to be prohibited from gambling. That declaration should protect the person from casino marketing. Colorado has just announced a new program, tightening the rules and putting the program under state control. Under the new rules, once people sign onto the states list, they are blocked from gambling in casinos or placing bets online. A person on the list will not be allowed to redeem winnings or collect any casino incentives. The old policy administered by the Problem Gambling Coalition of Colorado had fewer teeth in process. Under the new rules, a person chooses a period of one, three, or five years. If he or she is found gambling, not only are any winnings potentially confiscated, but the self-excluded gambler can be charged with a crime. Once on the list, only the director of the Division of Gaming can give permission to have the restrictions lifted. It might be a bit too much to charge the beleaguered gambler with a crime, but there needs to be some form of punishment. In some jurisdictions, the gambler chooses to be excluded and the casino, not the gambler, is charged with enforcement. In those cases, if a casino markets to a person on the list or allows such a person to enter the casino and gamble, the casino can be fined. The fines usually escalate with the number of incidents. The state is responsible for maintaining the list and notifying all gambling outlets within the jurisdiction of the persons excluded. The Nevada Currentmay not have been right in its characterization of Nevada and its casinos, regulations, and attitudes, but the publication is correct about the self-exclusionary list. Nevada is remiss. Problem gambling is a major social issue and one that needs to be confronted directly and responsibly. The issue is fraught with problems. Identifying people with gambling problems is not simple, nor is it easy to convince people to stop gambling if they have a problem. Ray admits he has a problem, but would he have excluded himself from Wynn or casinos in general? We will never know; he did not have the opportunity. Regardless of the challenges, Nevada should institute a regulatory policy for self-exclusion. A gambler should have the right and opportunity to opt out of gambling and casino marketing. If you spill tomato sauce on your brand new shirt, would you try to absorb the sauce, or adsorb it? Either way, unless you treat it immediately, your shirt is likely ruined. The verbs adsorb and absorb are near homophones, and their meanings both involve collecting a substance, but they actually mean different things. They cannot be substituted for each other in any contexts. If you are a scientist working with volatile substances in a laboratory environment, you will need to know the difference between these confusing words. You will also need to know the difference next time you spill something on your clothes, so read on for an explanation. What is the Difference Between Adsorb and Absorb? In this post, I will compare adsorb vs. absorb, and use each word in an example sentence. I will also show you how to use a mnemonic device that makes choosing adsorb or absorb a little easier. When to Use Adsorb What does adsorb mean? Adsorb is a verb. It means to collect condensed gas from a surface. Adsorb is a scientific term, and it is only rarely used outside of scientific contexts. Here are a few examples of adsorb in a sentence, Healy adsorbed the noxious vapor on a microscope slide and examined it. In order to better adsorb the gasses, the lab techs closed all the windows and sealed the vents. According to Ke, the compound could be used in a manner similar to applying salt to contaminated water. Since it is lighter than water, the material floats to adsorb iodine and then sinks as it becomes heavier. Science Daily According to Merriam-Webster, adsorb has only been in use since 1809, when it was invented by combining the prefix ad- with the verb absorb. Derivative words of adsorbare, Adsorbable = Adjective Adsorption = Noun Adsorptive = Adjective When to Use Absorb What does absorb mean? Absorb, the more common and older of the two words, is also a verb. Absorbmeans to soak up, like a person would soak up water with a towel when drying dishes. Absorbbecomes absorbent as an adjective. Many things are absorbent, like clothes, sponges, moss, and carpets. For example, If you spill red wine on a carpet, absorb as much liquid as possible with a clean rag, then soak the stain in a mixture of vinegar and dish detergent before blotting with another clean rag. The global conglomerate will absorb the tech startup into its own structure, retaining most of the current engineers and designers. S. exporters absorb some of the financial toll of inefficient transport, with farmers on the Upper Mississippi or Illinois rivers receiving up to 21 cents less per bushel of corn in the event of unplanned closings of certain locks. The Wall Street Journal When compared with adsorb, absorbis a much older term. If you look at the below graph, which charts adsorbvs. absorbover time, absorbhas been around much longer. It wasnt until the early- to mid-1900s that adsorbstarted appearing in printed English books, probably due to the great advancing in science and technology in the 20th century. Absorb, on the other hand, was first recorded in English in the 15th century, when it was borrowed from French. It has a long history as a Latin cognate of an early Indo-European verb that means suck up or to drink noisily. Today, we do not really think of absorbing as drinking noisily in English, but it is interesting to see how far the word has come from its original source. Trick to Remember the Difference These verbs are so similar that it is easy to get them confused. They both deal, at least in part, with collecting a liquid. Absorb vs. Adsorb Check:Since absorb has an extra B, like scrubber, and a sponge scrubber soaks up liquid, you can always remember to use absorb to mean to soak upliquid. Summary Is it absorb or adsorb? Absorb and adsorb are verbs. Absorb means to soak up liquid Adsorb means to collect gasses on a surface. The words are not interchangeable, even though they are near homophones. Key agenda for 20th CPC National Congress Graphic: Deng Zijun/GT The20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) will open at 10 am Sunday at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, and conclude on Oct 22, lasting seven days, Sun Yeli, spokesperson for the congress, said Saturday. daylight robbery New Word List Save This king johnnie promoWord! Save ThisWord! nouninformal blatant overcharging Words nearby daylight robbery How to use daylight robbery daylight robbery Charging exorbitant prices, as in The amount you're asking for this couch is daylight robbery. [Mid-1900s] Also see highway robbery. The American Heritage Idioms Dictionary Copyright 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Questionday labourer, day letter, Day-Lewis, daylight, daylight lamp, daylight robbery, daylights, daylight saving, daylight-saving time, daylily, day-linerCollins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 What Is a Tax Haven?flash loan in crypto A tax haven is a country that offers foreign businesses and individuals minimal or no tax liability for their bank deposits in a politically and economically stable environment. They have tax advantages for corporations and for the very wealthy, and obvious potential for misuse in illegal tax avoidance schemes. Companies and wealthy individuals may use tax havens legally as a means of stashing money earned abroad while avoiding higher taxes in the U.S. and other nations. Tax havens may also be used illegally to hide money from tax authorities at home. The tax haven can make this work by being uncooperative with foreign tax authorities. In recent times, tax havens are under increasing international political pressure to cooperate with foreign tax fraud inquiries. Key Takeaways Tax havens encourage foreign depositors by offering tax advantages to corporations and the wealthy. Many have secrecy laws that block information on their deposits from foreign tax authorities. Depositing money in a tax haven is legal as long as the depositor pays the taxes required by the home jurisdiction. Understanding Tax Havens Broadly speaking, tax havens are jurisdictions that have very low taxes and no residency requirements for foreign entities and individuals willing to park money in their financial institutions. A combination of lax regulation and secrecy laws enable corporations and individuals to screen some of their income from tax authorities in other nations. The Tax Justice Network maintains a Corporate Tax Haven Index that tracks the jurisdictions that it says are "most complicit" in helping multinational corporations evade taxes. As of 2021, the worst offenders were the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, and Bermuda. Tax havens may be found in another country or merely in a separate jurisdiction: Intranational Tax Havens Some U.S. states have no income tax. That simple fact makes them attractive to corporations looking to pay less overall in taxes, although it doesn't help them avoid federal taxes. For example, in the United States, Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming require no state income tax. Delaware is the state of choice for corporate incorporation. It does not impose a corporate tax on corporations that incorporate in Delaware but do business elsewhere. Offshore Tax Havens From the viewpoint of an American, "offshore" is anywhere outside U.S. jurisdiction. Offshore tax havens benefit from the capital their countries draw into their economies. The funds flow in from individuals and businesses with accounts at banks and other financial institutions. Individuals and corporations benefit from low or no taxes charged on income in foreign countries where loopholes, credits, or other special tax considerations may be allowed. Characteristics of tax haven countries generally include no or low taxes, minimal reporting of information, lack of transparency obligations, lack of local presence requirements, and marketing of tax haven vehicles. Worldwide there is not a comprehensively defined standard for the classification of a tax haven country, but several regulatory bodies monitor tax haven countries, including the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO). U.S. Government Response to Tax Havens The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), which passed in December 2017, set the effective corporate rate of U.S. taxes at 21%. It also added provisions intended to discourage foreign investments. Systematically, the TCJA is known for being more territorial in nature than previous international tax laws. The international tax system under the TCJA exempts foreign profits from domestic taxation but has certain provisions for high return foreign profits. Some companies that have historically been known for offshore tax haven holdings include Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet, Cisco, and Oracle. Overall, tax havens may also offer advantages in the area of credit, since it may be less expensive for U.S.-based companies to borrow funds internationally. This type of lending, which can potentially fund acquisitions and other corporate activities, is also subject to reporting within the guidelines of U.S. tax law, generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), and guidelines under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Individual U.S. Taxpayers The U.S. has special rules in place for the reporting of foreign income by U.S. citizens and non-U.S. citizens. These rules are generally governed under the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA). FATCA requires the filing of a Schedule B and/or Form 8938, which provides disclosure of foreign account holdings when investments exceed $50,000. Separately, foreign account holders may also be required to file Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts. In general, there can potentially be exemptions and foreign tax credits for investment in all types of overseas vehicles but it is important to consult a tax advisor for individual situations to ensure proper reporting. Regulatory Oversight of Tax Havens Tax havens create opportunities for illegal activities that go well beyond tax evasion. They are popular stops in the elaborate process of money laundering, which involves transferring illegally obtained cash through a series of shell companies until it can't be traced. As such, there is some regulatory oversight of tax havens. To maximize tax receipts, many foreign governments maintain relatively constant pressure on tax havens to release information regarding offshore investment accounts. However, because of the monetary burdens, regulatory oversight may not always be a top national priority. Worldwide, some programs are in place to increase the enforcement of offshore investment reporting. The Automatic Exchange of Financial Information is one example, overseen by the Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD). The program requires participating countries to automatically transmit tax-related banking information of non-citizen depositors to the countries in which they are citizens. Sometimes it takes a crisis to force change. For example, Cypruss financial sector, built on the countrys tax haven status, collapsed in 2013. The European Commission, European Central Bank, and the International Monetary Fund predicated an $11.8 billion bailout on the country's agreement to comply with more robust tax participation. What Are the Top 10 Overseas Tax Havens? The top tax havens currently are the British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Bermuda, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Hong Kong, the Cayman Islands, Jersey, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates. Which U.S. Companies Use Tax Havens the Most? Apple, Nike, and Goldman Sachs may have the most cash stashed abroad as of this writing. Apple alone has almost $215 billion banked in Ireland. Other big businesses with offshore accounts include Microsoft, IBM, General Electric, Pfizer, ExxonMobile, Chevron, and Walmart. What Are the Advantages of a Tax Haven? Corporations and wealthy individuals benefit primarily from low or no taxes on their income in foreign countries where loopholes, credits, or other special tax considerations may be lawful. Tax havens may also offer advantages in the area of credit, since it may be less expensive for U.S.-based companies to borrow funds internationally. Also, they are discreet. They share limited or no financial information with foreign tax authorities. How Does a Nation Benefit From Being a Tax Haven? The tax havens benefit when their financial institutions bring in a vast amount of money. That money is then invested for profit. Plus, even the very low fees charged for offshore accounts add up nicely. It is estimated that U.S. companies have somewhere between $24 trillion to $36 trillion tucked away in tax havens around the globe. Have you ever been happy to be by yourself? Has there been another time when you were by yourself, but wishing for the company of others? In both of these situations, you were alone. But you were only lonely in one of them. Aloneand lonelyare two adjectives with related, but different, meanings. They are similar enough to confuse many writers, but using them carefully will enhance your writing and make describing some emotional states easier. If you have ever wondered whether you should choose lonely or alone to describe a feeling of isolation, continue reading for an exploration on the true meaning of each of these words. What is the Difference Between Lonely and Alone? In this article, I will compare lonely vs. alone. I will use each word in a sentence to illustrate its proper context. Plus, I will give you a useful memory trick to help you choose either alone or lonely for your own writing. When to Use Lonely What does lonely mean? Lonelyis an adjective. It describes a feeling of sadness stemming from isolation or abandonment. For example, Andrea is feeling lonely because she does not have a romantic partner to bring to her friends Halloween party. The store had an empty, lonely feeling just before it closed for good. And Im telling you, it makes a lonely Badger feel invisible. The Wall Street Journal A person can be alonewithout feeling lonely, since alonedescribes a state of being and lonelydescribes an emotional response to ones circumstances. Most people dont feel sad when they go to the bathroom by themselves, for instance. When to Use Alone What does alone mean? Aloneis also an adjective. It describes a single person or object, separate from others. One who is alone is by oneself. For example, She went to the movies alone, because her friends talked too much. Imam realized that she was alone in the desert. Kerry was alone at the bar. The narrator of Jane Alisons restless, febrile novel Nine Island lives alone, but not unaccompanied. The New York Times As you can see, a person can be alone in the sense that no other people are present, or alone in the sense that he or she is unaccompanied, even in a crowd. Lone vs. Alone: Whats the Difference? What does lone mean? Lone is another adjective with the same meaning as alone. It is a shortening of the word alone, but it has a different place in the English sentence. Lone comes beforethe noun while alone comes afterthe noun. For example, He is a lone wolf. -not- He is an alone wolf. -but- The wolf is alone. These mistake is rarely made, but it is still worth mentioning. Trick to Remember the Difference Here is a helpful trick to remember alonevs. lonely. Aloneand lonelyare both adjectives, but they have different meanings. A person is alone when he is by himself. A person is lonely when he feels abandoned or sad due to isolation. Since alone and solitary both contain the letter A, you can remember that alone refers to a state of solitude, rather than an emotion. Summary Is it lonely or alone?Lonely and alone are both adjectives. Alone describes a state of isolation or solitude when one is outside the company of others. Lonely describes a feeling of sadness or abandonment. Loneliness is often, but not always, a result of being alone. Since alone and isolated both contain the letter A, you can remember that alone and isolated are synonyms. Now that you know the difference between these words, be sure to check other areas of this site for all your writing needs. You can also reread this article any time you need to for a quick refresher on the difference between alone and lonely. What Is Make to Order (MTO)?poker table table top Make to order (MTO), or made to order, is a business production strategy that typically allows consumers to purchase products that are customized to their specifications. It is a manufacturing process in which the production of an item begins only after a confirmed customer order is received. It is also known as mass customization. Key Takeaways Make to order (MTO), or made to order, is a business production strategy that typically allows consumers to purchase products that are customized to their specifications. The manufacturing process of an MTO item begins only after a confirmed customer order is received. Advantages to MTO include customization for customers, reduction in stock obsolescence and finished goods inventory, and overall waste. Disadvantages to MTO include increased costs and increased wait times for a finished product. MTO can be contrasted with make to stock (MTS) manufacturing, whereby inventories are produced in advance of consumers buying them off the shelf. Understanding Make to Order (MTO) The make-to-order (MTO) strategy means that a firm only manufactures the end product once the customer places the order, creating additional wait time for the consumer to receive the product, but allowing for more flexible customization when compared to purchasing directly from retailers' shelves. This type of manufacturing strategy is referred to as a pull-type supply chain operation because products are only made when there is firm customer demand. The pull-type production model is employed by the assembly industry where the quantity needed to be produced per product specification is one or only a few. This includes specialized industries such as construction, aircraft and vessel production, bridges, and so on. MTO is also appropriate for highly configured products such as computer servers, automobiles, bicycles, or products that are very expensive to keep inventory. In order to manage inventory levels and provide an increased level of customization, some companies adopt the make to order production system. The MTO strategy relieves the problems of excess inventory that is common with the traditional make-to-stock strategy. Dell Computers is an example of a business that uses the MTO production strategy, wherein customers can order a fully customized computer online and receive it in a couple of weeks. The main advantage of the MTO system is the ability to fulfill an order with the exact product specification required by the customer. Sales discounts and finished goods inventory are also reduced, and stock obsolescence is managed. However, for an MTO system to succeed, it should be coupled with proactive demand management. It should also be considered that the MTO system is not appropriate for all types of products. Related to MTO is assemble to order (ATO), which is a business production strategy where products ordered by customers are produced quickly and are customizable to a certain extent. The assemble-to-order (ATO) strategy requires that the basic parts of the product are already manufactured but not yet assembled. Once an order is received, the parts are assembled quickly and sent to the customer. Make to Order (MTO) vs. Make to Stock (MTS) Traditional production methodologies produce products and stock them as inventory until a customer buys them. This is known as make to stock (MTS). However, this system may be prone to wastage and obsolescence, as inventory sits on shelves awaiting purchase. This problem is particularly acute in an industry like technology, where the pace of advancement is quick and the problem of obsolete inventory could quickly arise. In theory, the MTS method is a great way for a company to prepare for increases and decreases in demand. However, inventory numbers and, therefore, production, are derived by creating future demand forecasts based on past data. There is a high likelihood that the forecasts will be off, even if by just slightly, meaning that a company might be stuck with too much inventory and too little liquidity. This is the main drawback of the MTS method of production. Inaccurate forecasts will lead to losses, stemming from excess inventory or stockouts, and in fast-paced sectors, such as electronics or computer tech, excess inventory can quickly become obsolete. Limitations of Make to Order (MTO) The two main drawbacks of make-to-order management are timeliness and cost of customization. If products are already on the shelf as with MTS, then a customer need not wait until the product is made, assembled, and delivered to spec. Cost is also a factor; pre-made and available products are all alike and so manufacturing costs are lowered due to economies of scale. Make to order will tend to be more expensive for the consumer since it involves customizable parts and finishes. Illustration: Xia Qing/GT Teachers often ask each other: How do you motivate your students to be more willing to write their homework?A teacher in Suzhou, East China's Jiangsu Province asked a friend to write a software to make students more passionate about doing their homework. Students can scan a customized code on their homework, and teachers can check out who has and has not handed in their work. The software can also be used to collect homework with one click. This not only greatly improves efficiency, but also makes students love writing and handing in homework. Homework, once a headache for both students and teachers, has become fun. It seems that to become a good teacher, one not only needs to constantly learn new things, but also have a friend who can write great software! Leeds-headquartered private online gambling operator Sky Betting & Gaming (SkyBet) may be set for London listing, Reuters reported on Monday citing unnamed sources. SkyBets majority owner CVC Capital Partners has reportedly hired Rothschild to examine listing opportunities for the British gambling company at a time when online gaming and betting is thriving in the UK and equity markets are booming. Reuters reported that Rothschild will hold a so-called beauty contest next week in a bid to engage banks to arrange the IPO for SkyBet. It is believed that the gambling company could be valued at between 2.5 billion and 3 billion. SkyBet was founded back in 2001 by British broadcasting company Sky. In 2014, private equity firm CVC Capital Partners acquired an 80% stake in the gambling operator for around 800 million, while Sky retained a 20% stake. SkyBet has been benefiting from the growing popularity of online gambling in the UK over the past several years, growing into one of the nations largest gambling operators. According to figures from the UK Gambling Commission, online gaming and betting currently accounts for a third of the British gambling market. SkyBet said in its report for the financial year ended June 30, 2017 that it managed to narrow its pre-tax loss to 3 millionfrom 37.8 million for the prior year. The company generated revenue of 515.8 million during the previous financial year, up from 373.6 million in 2016. Its results from the past several years encouraged SkyBet to undertake expansion across other markets. Taking advantage of Skys purchase of Sky Deutschland and Sky Italia in 2014, SkyBet later on selected namely Germany and Italyto launch its operations in. Last year, the company went live with an online gambling website in Italy. It has also said that it is watching closely regulatory developments in Germany and has even hired staff to launch operations there. Upcoming Changes in UKs Online Gambling Landscape While interest in online gambling seems to be growing, iGaming and betting operators are gearing up for a bit of a hard time. The UK Gambling Commission recently presented proposed changes to its Licence conditions and codes of practice, including ones related to the way licensed companies are advertising their products. A number of operators were imposed heavy fines last year, mainly due to their failure to comply with regulations when promoting their businesses to UK customers. Some of the violations involved third-party affiliate partners of the gambling companies. Last September, SkyBet announced its rather controversial decision to close its affiliate programand to terminate the contracts of all its affiliate partners, thus denying them commissions on previously referred players. Despite the regulatory challenges, it is believed that UKs online gambling sector is poised to grow even further, as the land-based sector of the nations gambling industry is facing a heavy regulatory crackdown. The UK government is set to announce by how much it will reduce the maximum stake of the highly controversial fixed-odds betting terminals any time now. According to media reports from last week, MPs might cut the maximum bet to just 2 from 100. The massive reduction could cost bookmakers hundreds of millions during the first year, and it is believed that companies with strong retail businesses across the UK will seek to boost their online gambling arms or to merge with major online gambling players to offset losses. What Is a Trust Company?telephone number to san manuel casino A trust company is a legal entity that acts as a fiduciary, agent, or trustee on behalf of a person or business for the purpose of administration, management, and the eventual transfer of assets to a beneficial party. The trust company acts as a custodian for trusts, estates, custodial arrangements, asset management, stock transfer, beneficial ownership registration, and other related arrangements. Key Takeaways A trust company is a legal entity that acts as a fiduciary, agent, or trustee on behalf of a person or business for a trust. A trust company is typically tasked with the administration, management, and the eventual transfer of assets to beneficiaries. A trust company acts as a custodian for trusts, estates, custodial arrangements, asset management, stock transfer, and beneficial ownership registration. Trusts are managed for profit, which it may take out of the assets annually or upon transfer to the beneficial third party. How Trust Companies Work Although trusts often have an individual assigned as the trustee, a trust company can also act in the same capacity. A trust company does not own the assets its customers assign to its management, but it may assume some legal obligation to take care of assets on behalf of other parties. A trust company or trust department is usually a division or an associated company of a commercial bank. Trusts and similar arrangements managed for eventual transfer are managed for profit, which it may take out of the assets annually or upon transfer to the beneficial third party. There are many trust companies to choose from, ranging in size and fees. The larger trust companies provide more products and services but may lack the personal touch of smaller institutions. Some of the larger trust companies are Northern Trust, Bessemer Trust, and U.S. Trust, which is now part of Bank of America Corporation. These trusts generally charge their fees based on a percentage of assets, ranging from 0.25% to 2.0%, depending on the size of the trust. What Trust Companies Offer Trust companies offer a variety of services, including the daily operational tasks for managing the trust. Also, there are many types of trusts that can use trust companies as a trustee, such as charitable trusts. Wealth management services are one of the most common uses for a trust company, which includes investment management and wealth preservation so that a client's future generations have the funds when needed. Trust companies offer asset-management services, such as bill pay, check writing, and other features. Trust companies also offer brokerage services with a wide array of investments available to their clients. Some trust companies can build financial plans for their clients for additional fees, depending on the level of service needed. Trust companies are also used in estate planning matters. A trust company can be left as a successor trustee for a trust when there are no financially responsible family members. Upon the death of the grantor, the trust company will become the new trustee and manage the assets according to the terms of the trust. Trust companies also offer a variety of estate-oriented services, such as guardianship, estate settlement, and non-financial asset management. Benefits of a Trust Company A trust company is hired to act as a fiduciary, meaning they act on your behalf and won't take advantage of you. As a result, a trust company can make all of the investment decisions and act in the best interest of its client. The investment management services offered by trust companies can be helpful to those who are not experienced or knowledgeable about the financial markets. Also, clients who dont want or care to manage their day-to-day finances can also benefit from using a trust company. Trust companies are often good alternatives for preventing future family squabbles when dealing with inheritances and estate planning. If dividing up the assets of an estate will cause family turmoil, a trust company can act as a neutral third party. B.S., Cornell University In a lineup, could you distinguish between a donkey and a mule? No? How about a possum and an opossum? Still no dice? If you need a refresher course in the subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) differences between seemingly identical animals, we'll teach you how to tell an alligator from a crocodile, a frog from a toad, and (generally speaking) any kind of critter from a closely related kind of critter. Dolphins and Porpoises A bottlenose dolphin.NASA Dolphins and porpoises are both cetaceans, the same family of mammals that also includes whales. Dolphinsare more numerous than porpoises (34 identified species, compared to six) and are characterized by their relatively long, narrow beaks studded with cone-shaped teeth, their curved or hooked dorsal (back) fins, and their relatively slender builds; they can also make whistling sounds with their blowholes, and are extremely social animals, swimming in extended pods and interacting easily with humans. Porpoiseshave smaller mouths filled with spade-shaped teeth, triangular dorsal fins, and bulkier bodies. As far as anyone has been able to tell, porpoises can't produce any blowhole sounds, and they are also much less social than dolphins, rarely swimming in groups of more than four or five and behaving very shyly around people. Turtles and Tortoises A pair of green sea turtles.Getty Images Distinguishing turtles from tortoises is just as much a matter of linguistics as it is of biology. In the U.S., "turtles" generally means both turtles and tortoises, whereas in the U.K., "turtles" refers specifically to freshwater and saltwater testudines (the animal order that embraces turtles, tortoises, and terrapins). (We won't even mention Spanish-speaking countries, where all testudines, including turtles and tortoises, are called "tortugas.") Generally speaking, the word tortoiserefers to land-dwelling testudines, while turtleis more commonly reserved for ocean-dwelling or river-dwelling species. In addition, most (but not all) tortoises are vegetarians, while most (but not all) turtles are omnivorous, eating both plants and other animals. Confused yet? Mammoths and Mastodons A woolly mammoth.Getty Images Before we get to the differences, we can tell you one thing mammoths and mastodons definitely have in common: they have both been extinct for over 10,000 years! What paleontologists refer to as mammothsbelonged to the genus Mammuthus, which originated in Africa about five million years ago; mammoths tended to be extremely large (four or five tons), and some species, like the Woolly Mammoth, were draped with luxurious pelts. Mastodons, by contrast, were slightly smaller than mammoths, belonged to the genus Mammut, and had a deeper evolutionary history, their distant ancestors roaming North America 30 million years ago. Mammoths and mastodons also pursued different diets: the former grazed on grass like modern elephants, while the latter feasted on the twigs, leaves, and branches of trees. Hares and Rabbits A European rabbit.Getty Images The terms may be used interchangeably in old Bugs Bunny cartoons, but in fact, rabbits and hares belong to different branches of the lagomorph family tree. Haresare comprised of about 30 species of the genus Lepidus; they tend to be slightly larger than rabbits, live on prairies and deserts rather than burrowing underground, and can run faster and hop higher than their rabbit cousins (necessary adaptations for escaping from predators on open ground). Rabbits, by contrast, comprise about two dozen species spread out over eight different genera, and prefer to live in shrubs and forests, where they can burrow in the ground for protection. Bonus fact: the North American jackrabbit is actually a hare! (You may wonder where "bunny" fits into all this nomenclature; this word once referred to juvenile rabbits, but now is applied indiscriminately to rabbits and hares alike, especially by children.) Butterflies and Moths A monarch butterfly.Getty Images Compared to some of the other animals on this list, the differences between butterflies and moths are pretty straightforward. Butterfliesare insects of the order Lepidoptera equipped with relatively large, colorful wings that fold up straight over their backs; mothsare also lepidopterans, but their wings are smaller and more drably colored, and when they're not flying they usually hold their wings close to the front of their abdomens. As a general rule, butterflies prefer to venture out during the day, while moths prefer dusk, dawn, and nighttime. Developmentally speaking, however, butterflies and moths are virtually identical: both of these insects undergo metamorphosis into their adult stages, butterflies in a hard, smooth chrysalis and moths in a silk-covered cocoon. Possums and Opossums A Virginia opossum.Wikimedia Commons This is a confusing one, so pay attention. The North American mammals known as opossums are marsupials of the order Didelphimorphia, accounting for over 100 species and 19 genera. (Contrary to popular belief, marsupials don't only live in Australia, though this is the only continent where these pouched mammals have evolved to large sizes.) The trouble is that American oposums are often referred to as "possums," which causes them to be confused with tree-dwelling marsupials of Australia and New Guinea of the suborder Phalangeriformes (and which, wouldn't you know it, are also called "possums" by natives). Aside from their names, though, you're unlikely to confuse an Australian possum with an American opossum; for one thing, the former marsupials are distant descendants of Diprotodon, a two-ton wombat of the Pleistocene epoch! Alligators and Crocodiles A saltwater crocodile.Getty Images Alligators and crocodiles comprise separate branches of the reptilian order Crocodylia, Alligatoridae and Crocodylidae (we'll leave it to you to guess which is which). As a general rule, crocodilesare bigger, meaner, and more widespread: these semi-marine reptiles inhabit rivers worldwide, and their long, narrow, tooth-studded snouts are ideally shaped for snagging prey that wanders too close to the water's edge. Alligators, by contrast, have blunter snouts, less aggressive dispositions, and far less diversity (there are only two alligator species the American alligator and the Chinese alligator compared to more than a dozen types of crocodiles). Crocodiles also have a much deeper evolutionary history than alligators; their ancestors include multi-ton monsters like Sarcosuchus (also known as the SuperCroc) and Deinosuchus, which lived alongside the dinosaurs of the Mesozoic Era. Donkeys and Mules A donkey.Wikimedia Commons This one all comes down to genetics, pure and simple. Donkeysare a subspecies of genus Equus (which also includes horses and zebras) that descend from the African wild ass, and were domesticated in the near east about 5,000 years ago. Mules, by contrast, are the offspring of female horses and male donkeys (subspecies of Equus are capable of interbreeding), and they are completely sterile a female mule can't be impregnated by a male horse, donkey or mule, and a male mule can't impregnate a female horse, donkey or mule. Appearance-wise, mules tend to be larger and more "horse-like" than donkeys, while donkeys have longer ears and are generally considered cuter. (There is also an equine called a "hinny," which is the offspring of a male horse and a female donkey; hinnies tend to be slightly smaller than mules, and are occasionally capable of breeding.) Frogs and Toads A green tree frog.Getty Images Frogs and toads are both members of the amphibian order Anura (Greek for "without tails"). The differences between them are pretty much meaningless to taxonomists, but popularly speaking, frogshave long hind legs with webbed feet, smooth (or even slimy) skin, and prominent eyes, while toadshave stubby bodies, dry (and sometimes "warty") skin, and comparatively short hind legs. As you may have already surmised, frogs are usually found near water, while toads can range for longer distances inland, since they don't constantly need to keep their skin moist. However, frogs and toads do share two important characteristics in common: as amphibians, they both need to lay their eggs in water (frogs in circular clusters, toads in straight lines), and their hatchlings pass through a tadpole stage before developing into full-grown adults. Leopards and Cheetahs The Amur leopard.Getty Images Superficially, cheetahs and leopards look a lot alike: both are tall, slim, rangy cats that live in Africa and the near east and are covered with black spots. But they actually are quite different species: cheetahs(Acinonyx chubatus) can be distinguished by the black "tear lines" running down the corners of their eyes and past their noses, as well as their longer tails, lankier builds, and top speeds of close to 70 miles per hour when running down prey. By contrast,leopards(Panthera pardus) have bulkier builds, larger skulls, and more complex spot patterns (which provide camouflage and may also facilitate intra-species recognition). Most importantly, you won't have to be Usain Bolt to stand any chance of escaping a hungry leopards, as these cats hit top speeds of barely 35 miles per hour, about half as fast as their cheetah cousins. Seals and Sea Lions A sea lion.Wikimedia Commons When it comes to distinguishing between seals and sea lions, the main things to consider are size and cuteness. While both of these animals belong to the family of marine mammals known as pinnipeds, sealsare smaller, furrier, and have stubbier front feet, while sea lionsare bigger and noisier, with elongated front flippers. Sea lions also tend to be much more social, sometimes congregating in groups of over a thousand individuals, while seals are comparative loners and spend more time in the water (the only time you're likely to find a group of seals together is when it's time to mate). Perhaps most important, since sea lions are capable of "walking" on dry land by rotating their hind flippers, and are more vocal than seals, they are the go-to pinnipeds for circuses and aquariums, where they can be taught crowd-pleasing tricks. G20 Photo:VCG Speaking at the G20 Leaders' Summit in Bali,Indonesia on Tuesday, Chinese President Xi Jinping called for unity and inclusive global development as the world faces major challenges, while warning that drawing ideological lines and promoting group politics and bloc confrontation will only divide the world and undermine global development.The G20 summit kicked off on the Indonesian resort island on Tuesday morning. After arriving at the main venue for the summit, greeted by Indonesia President Joko Widodo, world leaders started the first working session, which focused on global food and energy security.During his speech, Xi said that food and energy security is the most pressing challenge in global development and the root cause of the current crisis is not production or demand but disrupted supply chains and international cooperation. The solution lies in coordination among countries under the UN and other multilateral international organizations, Xi said."We must firmly oppose the attempt to politicize food and energy issues or use them as tools and weapons,, remove unilateral sanctions and cancel restrictions on related science and technology cooperation ," Xi told world leaders, stressing that China has made major contributions to global food and energy security.Under the theme of "Recover together, Recover Stronger," the G20 summit in Bali is aiming for global cooperation on the global economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and other downward pressures given the global influence of the G20.The G20 stands for the group of 20 largest economies in the world, which together accounts for more than 80 percent of the world's gross domestic product, 75 percent of international trade and 60 percent of its population.The grouping was initially founded in 1999 after the Asian financial crisis and emerged as the principal forum for coordinating an international response to the global financial crisis of 2008; however, in recent years, as geopolitical friction has grown, division within the G20 has also become increasingly prominent as some Western countries, including the US, seek to focus on geopolitical tension at the summit.Highlighting the tension, many reporters covering the event in Bali were focused on whether the world leaders will reach a communique or whether they will even pose for a group photo.However, despite the tension, many world leaders also called for global cooperation and affirmed opposition to conflict during the summit.During his speech on Tuesday morning, Xi said that as human development faces major challenges, division should be replaced by unity, confrontation should be replaced by cooperation and exclusion should be replaced by inclusiveness."Facing various risks and challenges, we should pull together in times of trouble. Drawing ideological lines and promoting group politics and bloc confrontation will only divide the world and undermine global development and human advancement," Xi said, stressing that a Cold War mentality is obsolete as human civilization has already entered the 21st century.At the working session on Tuesday morning, Widodo also told world leaders that "we shouldn't divide the world into parts. We must not let the world fall into another cold war," according to Bloomberg.Other world leaders also warned the dire consequences of division and protectionism for the global economy.Kristalina Georgieva, managing director of the International Monetary Fund, said in remarks to the summit that protectionism must not be allowed leading the world to drift into separate blocs, warning a divided world would forfeit at least 1.5 percent of GDP annually, Bloomberg reported. What Is a Signature Loan?nhl cappers picks ncaaf odd sharks A signature loan, also known as a good faith loan or character loan, is a type of personal loan offered by banks and other finance companies that only requires the borrowers signature and a promise to pay as collateral. A signature loan can typically be used for any purpose the borrower chooses, although the interest rates may be higher than other forms of credit due to the lack of collateral. Key Takeaways A signature loan uses the borrowers signature and promises to pay as the sole collateral for receiving the loan. Interest rates on signature loans are generally higher than other forms of credit due to the lack of collateral. Lenders grant signature loans if they deem the borrower has enough income and good credit history. Understanding a Signature Loan To determine whether to grant a signature loan, a lender typically looks for solid credit history and sufficient income to repay the loan. In some cases, the lender may require a co-signer on the loan, but the co-signer is only called upon in the event the original lender defaults on payments. Signature loans are one type of unsecured term loan. Unsecured refers to the fact these loans are not secured by any form of physical collateral, unlike home mortgages and car loans. Term means the loan is amortized over a predetermined time period and paid off in equal monthly installments. Signature Loan vs. Revolving Credit Applications for regular credit or revolving credit loans normally trigger a funding delay while the banking institution or loan company examines the borrowers credit history and checks personal qualifications. By contrast, the funds obtained through signature loans are deposited in the borrowers account more quickly, allowing earlier allocation to financial needs. As soon as a signature loan is paid off, the account is closed, and the borrower needs to apply for a new loan if they require additional funds. In contrast, a revolving credit account allows the indebted party to repay the loan and maintain the line of credit until the borrower or lender chooses to end the relationship and close the account. Examples of Signature Loans While the purpose and structure of signature loans have not changed over the years, financial analysts report that the profile of the average borrower accessing signature loans has changed. In the past, borrowers with poor credit scores tended to take out signature loans, but as interest rates have fallen and loan maximums have increased, many borrowers with good credit and high income have also turned to these loans. Adding a co-signer on a signature loan may help a borrower with a minimal credit history or a low income. These borrowers use signature loans for a range of purposes, including home improvements, unexpected expenses, medical bills, vacations, and other large expenditures. Some borrowers also use signature loans to consolidate other debts. Let's say a borrower gets a signature loan with a 7% interest rate for an amount equal to the total of balances that they are carry on credit cards, with rates ranging from 12% to 20%. The borrower then uses the signature loan to pay off the credit cards in full. The borrower will realize distinct savings by repaying the same amount of money at 7% rather than at the former higher rates. If you're thinking about taking out a signature loan, then a personal loan calculator could be useful for figuring out what the monthly payment and total interest should be for the amount you're looking to borrow. How are signature loans different than personal loans? A signature loan is a type of personal loan. It's different than other kinds of personal loans because it's unsecured. The only collateral is the borrowers signature and a promise to pay. Who are signature loans typically good for? Borrowers with good credit are typically candidates for signature loans because they have established a record of paying debts and are a low risk for defaulting. How much do people borrow with a signature loan? They can start at as little as $500. Remember, not all banks and credit unions participate. Bottom Line Signature loans are a type of personal loan requiring only a promise to pay as collateral. While in the past they were typically made to people with poor credit, today they are pretty much reserved for customers with better credit scores. Remember that not all banks offer signature loans, and interest rates tend to be higher than with secured loans. What Is a Bollinger Band?nba draft warriors xsr coin reddit A Bollinger Band is a technical analysis tool defined by a set of trendlines plotted two standard deviations (positively and negatively) away from a simple moving average (SMA) of a security's price, but which can be adjusted to user preferences. Bollinger Bands were developed and copyrighted by famous technical trader John Bollinger, designed to discover opportunities that give investors a higher probability of properly identifying when an asset is oversold or overbought. Key Takeaways Bollinger Bands are a technical analysis tool developed by John Bollinger for generating oversold or overbought signals. There are three lines that compose Bollinger Bands: A simple moving average (middle band) and an upper and lower band. The upper and lower bands are typically 2 standard deviations +/- from a 20-day simple moving average (which is the center line), but they can be modified. When the price continually touches the upper Bollinger Band, it can indicate an overbought signal while continually touching the lower band indicates an oversold signal. Understanding Bollinger Bands How to Calculate Bollinger Bands 1:59 The first step in calculating Bollinger Bands is to compute the simple moving average (SMA) of the security in question, typically using a 20-day SMA. A 20-day moving average would average out the closing prices for the first 20 days as the first data point. The next data point would drop the earliest price, add the price on day 21 and take the average, and so on. Next, the standard deviation of the security's price will be obtained. Standard deviation is a mathematical measurement of average variance and features prominently in statistics, economics, accounting, and finance. For a given data set, the standard deviation measures how spread out numbers are from an average value. Standard deviation can be calculated by taking the square root of the variance, which itself is the average of the squared differences of the mean. Next, multiply that standard deviation value by two and both add and subtract that amount from each point along the SMA. Those produce the upper and lower bands. Here is this Bollinger Band formula: BOLU = MA ( TP , n ) + m [ TP , n ] BOLD = MA ( TP , n ) m [ TP , n ] where: BOLU = Upper Bollinger Band BOLD = Lower Bollinger Band MA = Moving average TP (typical price) = ( High + Low + Close ) 3 n = Number of days in smoothing period (typically 20) m = Number of standard deviations (typically 2) [ TP , n ] = Standard Deviation over last n periods of TP \begin{ aligned} &\text{ BOLU} = \text { MA} ( \text { TP}, n ) + m * \sigma [ \text { TP}, n ] \\ &\text{ BOLD} = \text { MA} ( \text { TP}, n ) - m * \sigma [ \text { TP}, n ] \\ &\textbf{ where:} \\ &\text { BOLU} = \text { Upper Bollinger Band} \\ &\text { BOLD} = \text { Lower Bollinger Band} \\ &\text { MA} = \text { Moving average} \\ &\text { TP (typical price)} = ( \text{ High} + \text{ Low} + \text{ Close} ) \div 3 \\ &n = \text { Number of days in smoothing period (typically 20)} \\ &m = \text { Number of standard deviations (typically 2)} \\ &\sigma [ \text { TP}, n ] = \text { Standard Deviation over last } n \text{ periods of TP} \\ \end{ aligned} BOLU=MA(TP,n)+m[TP,n]BOLD=MA(TP,n)m[TP,n]where:BOLU=Upper Bollinger BandBOLD=Lower Bollinger BandMA=Moving averageTP (typical price)=(High+Low+Close)3n=Number of days in smoothing period (typically 20)m=Number of standard deviations (typically 2)[TP,n]=Standard Deviation over last n periods of TP What Do Bollinger Bands Tell You? Bollinger Bands are a highly popular technique. Many traders believe the closer the prices move to the upper band, the more overbought the market, and the closer the prices move to the lower band, the more oversold the market. John Bollinger has a set of 22 rules to follow when using the bands as a trading system. In the chart depicted below, Bollinger Bands bracket the 20-day SMA of the stock with an upper and lower band along with the daily movements of the stock's price. Because standard deviation is a measure of volatility, when the markets become more volatile the bands widen; during less volatile periods, the bands contract. Image by Sabrina Jiang Investopedia 2021 The Squeeze The "squeeze" is the central concept of Bollinger Bands. When the bands come close together, constricting the moving average, it is called a squeeze. A squeeze signals a period of low volatility and is considered by traders to be a potential sign of future increased volatility and possible trading opportunities. Conversely, the wider apart the bands move, the more likely the chance of a decrease in volatility and the greater the possibility of exiting a trade. However, these conditions are not trading signals. The bands give no indication when the change may take place or in which direction the price could move. Breakouts Approximately 90% of price action occurs between the two bands. Any breakout above or below the bands is a major event. The breakout is not a trading signal. The mistake most people make is believing that that price hitting or exceeding one of the bands is a signal to buy or sell. Breakouts provide no clue as to the direction and extent of future price movement. Limitations of Bollinger Bands Bollinger Bands are not a standalone trading system. They are simply one indicator designed to provide traders with information regarding price volatility. John Bollinger suggests using them with two or three other non-correlated indicators that provide more direct market signals. He believes it is crucial to use indicators based on different types of data. Some of his favored technical techniques are moving average divergence/convergence (MACD), on-balance volume, and relative strength index (RSI). Because they are computed from a simple moving average, they weigh older price data the same as the most recent, meaning that new information may be diluted by outdated data. Also, the use of 20-day SMA and 2 standard deviations is a bit arbitrary and may not work for everyone in every situation. Traders should adjust their SMA and standard deviation assumptions accordingly and monitor them. What Do Bollinger Bands Tell You? Bollinger Bands give traders an idea of where the market is moving based on prices. It involves the use of three bandsone for the upper level, another for the lower level, and the third for the moving average. When prices move closer to the upper band, it indicates that the market may be overbought. Conversely, the market may be oversold when prices end up moving closer to the lower or bottom band. Which Indicators Work Best with Bollinger Bands? Many technical indicators work best in conjunction with other ones. Bollinger Bands are often used along with the relative strength indicator (RSI) as well as the BandWidth indicator, which is the measure of the width of the bands relative to the middle band. Traders use BandWidth find Bollinger Squeezes. How Accurate Are Bollinger Bands? Since Bollinger Bands are set two use +/- two standard deviations around an SMA, we should expect that approximately 95% of the time, the observed price action will fall within these bands. What Time Frame Is Best Used with Bollinger Bands? Bollinger Bands typically use a 20-day moving average. The Bottom Line Bollinger Bands can be a useful tool for traders for assessing the relative level of over- or under-boughtness of a stock and provides them with insight on when to enter and exit a position. Certain aspects of Bollinger Bands, such as the Squeeze, work well for currency trading, as does adding a second set of Bollinger Bands. Buying when stock prices cross below the lower Bollinger Band often helps traders take advantage of oversold conditions and profit when the stock price moves back up toward the center moving-average line. Using this tool correctly can help investors and traders make better decisions and hopefully earn profits. At a hip Brooklyn,games i can play to earn real money NY music venue on a warm November Thursday night, dozens of members of the American Outlaws, the U.S. soccer fan group, gathered near a stage, sipping Bud Light Seltzers and IPAs in their red, white, and blue scarves and hats. Brooklyn, N.Y., lets make some noise, a DJ implored, and the fans complied, singing songs and chanting USA! USA! USA. Many of them had waited eight long years for this moment, as the U.S. Mens National Soccer Team lived through a nightmare in 2018; Team USA failed to qualify for that quadrennial World Cup in Russia. In a few moments, however, the roster for the 2022 U.S. squad, which is headed to Qatar, would be unveiled. So the Outlaws were feeling festive. Jason Burak couldnt help but think back to his days as an intern, in the 1990s, for the New England Revolution. The franchise was just starting out in the then-fledgling American professional outfit, Major League Soccer (MLS). Nobody really knew what soccer was, says Burak, who now works for a major credit card company. I spent my mornings handing out free-ticket fliers. These days, MLS is an established enterprise that has produced some key members of the U.S. World Cup team. Soccer has taken a firm hold on the U.S. sporting consciousness over the past quarter century. English Premier League games, readily available on televisions and tablets, have become part of a weekend viewing ritual for many fans. And now, some of the best players, on the worlds best teams, are Americans. Burak could never have imagined that one day, hed watch American Christian Pulisic, whos been playing in top European leagues since he was 17, start a game for Chelsea, one of the most valuable soccer clubs on the planet. Being able to turn on the TV and see how many Americans are playing abroad, its amazing to see, says Burak. Our team has depth that its never had before. The 26 Americans playing in the World Cup The 26 names called out in Brooklyn a few minutes later, who will represent the U.S. in Qatar, proved Buraks point. Though this American team may not have enough firepower to bring home a World Cup trophy against the likes of traditional powers France, Germany, Brazil, and Argentina, its an American squad unlike any other. The U.S. players own stellar resumes, as they suit up for iconic clubs like Chelsea, AC Milan, Arsenal, and Juventus. The team neatly reflects the nation it represents, as its more diverse and multicultural than ever. Roughly half the roster consists of players of color. The U.S. World Cup team, by position (pro club/country; U.S. team appearances/goals; hometown) is: The American soccer players are young Team USA also represents a youth movement on the global stage. The Americans will be one of the youngest teams in Qatar. According to the analytics firm Stats Perform, the average age of U.S. players during World Cup qualifyingweighted by minutes played in the matcheswas 24.9, a full two years below the second youngest squad, Ecuador. (Costa Rica clocks in as the oldest team in qualifying, at 30.3 years of weighted age). Typically, such a lack of experience would dampen expectations. After all, just one American player, defender DeAndre Yedlin, has any World Cup experience. That naivete and inexperience will certainly manifest at different times, says former U.S. star Alexi Lalas, now a commentator for Fox Sports. Young people do dumb stuff every once in a while. But most pundits concede that, in large part to all the young legs, this is the most talented mens team the U.S. has ever sent to a World Cup. One thing about being young and a little bit naive, you have this fearlessness about you, says U.S. midfielder Tyler Adams, who plays for Leeds United, a Premier League club with an American coach, Jesse Marsch, and two American starters, Adams and midfielder Brenden Aaronson. You dont really give a shit who youre playing against. The Americans open up their World Cup against Wales on Nov. 21, followed by group stage matches against England (Nov. 25) and Iran (Nov. 29). Many U.S. soccer observers consider this Qatar World Cup as a sort of tune-up for 2026, when North America will host the expanded event, and the young American core of Pulisic, Adams, Aaronson, and others should be in their soccer prime. The home team could be one of the favorites. These U.S. players, however, are looking to seize whats in front of them. The expectations of others that this World Cup is a test, I dont like that, says midfielder Yunus Musah, 19, who plays for Valencia in Spains top-flight LaLiga. I want to show people that we can do it. So Im going to go out there and make sure we do it. Read more: Thousands of Migrant Workers Died in Qatars Extreme Heat. The World Cup Forced a Reckoning Gregg Berhalter is head coach After the U.S. failed to make the last World Cup, in December 2018 U.S. Soccer hired Gregg Berhalter, an ex-national team player, as head coach. In his first training camp in early 2019, he set about building a new team culture. He took the players on a trip to Coronado Beach, Calif. to visit with the Navy Seals, who spoke to the players and put them through some physical training. That was a really important day, says defensemen Walker Zimmerman, who was briefly called up to the national team during the doomed qualifying run for Russia. We suffered through it together, but we were together, so nothing else mattered. Thats the kind of brotherhood we were trying to develop on this team. Gregg and his staff have done a really good job, from day one from that camp, of making sure that those are our core values. Berhalter created a player Leadership Council to open a dialogue about team concerns. Zimmerman, Pulisic, Adams, Weston McKennie (of Juventus), and goalkeeper Sean Johnson have been regular members over the past four years. Later in 2019, the team held a prolonged training session in the St. Louis heat, the day before a friendly against Uruguay. The players thought the team felt sluggishthe match ended in a 1-1 drawand the Leadership Council suggested to Berhalter that they might be better off with less strenuous training sessions right before game time. Berhalter agreed, and a new policy was set. The Leadership Council doesnt always get its way. Sometimes, Berhalter has denied requests for team dinners outside of the hotel, preferring that the team stay put and recover from travel. It can be a bigger decision that affects the game, it can be a small decision that affects the daily schedule, says Zimmerman. But ultimately, theres dialogue between the players and the coach. And I think that council provides a safe way for players to do it. Its not just the responsibility of just the captain or one person. Its a little bit more player friendly, which we all enjoy. A focus on bonding and accountability At 29, Zimmerman counts as a graybeard on the U.S. squad, and it often shows. While in Spain to prepare for a friendly against Saudi Arabia in September, many younger players gathered to watch a charity soccer game starring notable U.K. social media influencers. Walker couldnt name one person, says Adams, 23. Walkers the old man. He doesnt know whats going on. But hes good. He stays involved with the younger guys. Hes a good older guy to have around. Culture gap notwithstanding, by all accounts these U.S. players are a cohesive unit. At team meals, theyll sit around for an hour, the plates long gone, just talking. They play fantasy football and golf. You name it, theyre always doing things together, says Berhalter. Theres a deep bond that they have together. When you think about what were trying to accomplish, when you have everyone pulling in the same direction, you are more likely to succeed. These bonds also allow the players to be honest with each other, which can only boost Americas chances in Qatar. We know each other so well, that we can talk to each other openly, says McKennie, 24. So if Im doing something wrong, Tyler has no problem telling me. We have no problem holding each other accountable in anything that we do. American soccer has made changes In recent years, American soccer has upgraded its talent development system. These changes should pay off in Qatar. MLS teams have invested in academies that cull talent, and offer players pro coaching at young ages, much like top European clubs have done for years. Take, for example, Adams. He grew up in Wappingers Falls, N.Y., some 50 miles north of New York City. He started playing with the New York Red Bulls youth academy at 12 years old, commuting back and forth between his home and the teams facility in New Jersey. It was amazing, Adams tells TIME. Because you suddenly realize that being the best in your town doesnt mean anything. Because now theyre finding the best players from everywhere. He also continued to play basketball into this freshman year of high school, following the expert edict that young athletes should sample multiple sports going into adolescence. I remember playing my basketball right after school and then driving down to New Jersey for soccer training, says Adams. If they found out about that, they would not have been too happy. But honestly a lot of how I play soccer today, I give credit to basketball. Just defensively, shifting, all the different things you have to do. I couldnt suggest more to people that you should play as many different sports as possible. It makes a big difference. Adams turned pro, at 16, with the Red Bulls second-tier team, and then worked his way up to the main squad before leaving for RB Leipzig, a Red Bull-owned team in the top-flight Bundesliga, in 2019. He jumped to the Premier League, and Leeds, this summer, for a reported $24 million transfer fee. His Leeds teammate Aaronson, who hails from southern New Jersey, trained with the Philadelphia Unions academy since he was 10. I just look at the way Brenden Aaronsons career and the trajectory and the way hes handled it, going from Major League Soccer to Austria to now Leeds, says ESPN soccer analyst Taylor Twellman. Who knows where that next move is because hes been playing so well in the Premier League. I would be shocked if the World Cup isnt a real opening of the eyes for the casual fan that will watch the World Cup and go, whoa, wheres he from?' All eyes on Christian Pulisic Americas most notable weapon, midfielder Pulisic, is a product of the international academy system. Borussia Dortmund, a Bundesliga team, signed Pulisic at 16. He was soon playing for the top team, and he became the youngest non-German to ever score in goal in the Bundesliga, at 17. In 2019, Chelsea signed Pulisic for a $73 million transfer fee. While Pulisic became the first American to play in a Champions League Final in 2021, hes struggled a bit with Chelsea this season, coming off the bench in a majority of games. FIFAs official World cup Twitter account recently called Pulisic the LeBron James of Soccer, which is a bit misleading. Hes not in the argument for greatest-of-all-time in his sport, as James is. (The Tweet was subsequently deleted). Still, Pulisic is an American phenom. But he just cant beat the world by himself. If Christian Pulisic is an off-the-ball predator, if hes relentless and hes playing at the best of his ability, but the other guys dont show up, it isnt going to matter, says Twellman. Its literally the sum of the parts. They dont have one single guy who can carry them to the promised land, like a Messi, like a Ronaldo. But hell, if you get 90 to 95% of the potential and capability of all the players, youre talking about a special group. Yunus Musah represents the USA Christian Pulisic #10 of the United States sprints during a game between Saudi Arabia and USMNT at Estadio Nueva Condomina on September 27, 2022 in Murcia, Spain Brad SmithISI Photos/Getty Images One U.S. player could have played for a multitude of nations. Midfielder Yunus Musah was born in New York City, while his Ghanaian mother was on vacation. He grew up in Italy and joined Arsenals youth academy in London when he was nine. He played for Englands under-17 and under-18 national teams. In November of 2020 Musah, who plays for Valencia, was invited to a U.S. national team camp in Wales. For my whole life, I had this U.S. passport and didnt do anything with it, really, Musah tells TIME via video interview, after a Valencia training session. Once I went to that camp, I gelled really quickly with everyone on and off the pitch. I wanted to be part of this journey. Since then its been really exciting. Ive loved going into camp every time. I love representing them. Im more connected to my American side, and Im very happy about that. In March of 2021, Musah committed to playing for the United States, over England, Ghana, and Italy. While growing up in Europe, Musah always kept an eye on activities across the Atlantic. I always loved hearing the American accent, Musah says. And the music and TV shows. His favorite:The Fresh Prince of Bel Air.Musah has not committed to doing the Carlton Dance if he scores a World Cup goal. Though he didnt rule it out either. What the data says about the USMNTs shot at World Cup success What do the analytics say about the U.S. style and chances? According to Stats Perform, the U.S. plays Fast and Direct, rather than Slow and Intricate. The American team averaged a little more than three passes per possession in World Cup qualifying, while moving upfield at a speed of around 1.6 meters per second. Group stage opponent England, on the other hand, averaged almost 6 passes per possession, while moving upfield at about 1 meter per second. (Wales and Iran play more similar to the US). The U.S launched about 40% of its goal kicks past midfield, a maneuver consistent with a Fast and Direct strategy. Stats Performs AI model gives the United States a 45.4% chance of advancing out of its group. England has an 84% shot, Wales a 41% chance, and Iran a 30% chance. (Of all World Cup teams, Brazil is the best bet to advance out of its group, with an 89% chance. Costa Rica is the longest longshot, with a 12% chance of advancing to the knockout round.) Twenty years ago, the U.S. advanced to the World Cup quarterfinal: the Stats Perform model gives the U.S. a 19.2% shot at repeating that feat. As for winning the whole thing, the odds slim considerably. Brazil, at 16.75%, is the safest bet to win title. France has a 12.7% chance of repeating as World Cup champions. And Argentina has a 10.5% chance to finally deliver Lionel Messi his first World Cup title. The United States, however, has a less than one percent chance0.73%, same as Mexicoto win the whole thing. Oof. For the U.S. team, hope springs eternal No grim statistical prediction would dim American enthusiasm at the roster reveal. Berhalter walked onto the street after the ceremony, where a car awaited. But fans stopped him along the way, asking for group pictures, saying theyd see him in Qatar. He got the rock star treatment. While the U.S. women have brought home a pair of World Cup titles since the men last competed in a World Cup, theres plenty of pent-up demand for mens national team success. Berhalter has preached ad nausuem about dividing the World Cup into two distinct events: the group stage and the knockout round. While the group stage requires sustained excellence over three games, once youre in the knockout stage, anything can happen. Berhalter is correct about that. In a low-scoring affair like soccer, a single bounce in one teams favor can determine the outcome of a game. The final determination of this group will be at the World Cup. Thats how generations are measured, says Berhalter. We want to be brave, the way we play. This a great opportunity for us. A great opportunity for young players, for old players, for everyone. I just hope that when we get there, were ready to take advantage of it. Because we really do see this as a responsibility. We want to get the public behind us. We want to build a ton of momentum going into 2026. But it all starts now. Investopedia / Ryan Oakley What Is an Annuity?hollywoodbet register online application The term "annuity" refers to an insurance contract issued and distributed by financial institutions with the intention of paying out invested funds in a fixed income stream in the future. Investors invest in or purchase annuities with monthly premiums or lump-sum payments. The holding institution issues a stream of payments in the future for a specified period of time or for the remainder of the annuitant's life. Annuities are mainly used for retirement purposes and help individuals address the risk of outliving their savings. Key Takeaways Annuities are financial products that offer a guaranteed income stream, usually for retirees. The accumulation phase is the first stage of an annuity, whereby investors fund the product with either a lump sum or periodic payments. The annuitant begins receiving payments after the annuitization period for a fixed period or for the rest of their life. Annuities can be structured into different kinds of instruments, which gives investors flexibility. These products can be categorized into immediate and deferred annuities and may be structured as fixed or variable. What Is An Annuity? How an Annuity Works 1:38 Annuities are designed to provide a steady cash flow for people during their retirement years and to alleviate the fears of outliving their assets. Since these assets may not be enough to sustain their standard of living, some investors may turn to an insurance company or other financial institution to purchase an annuity contract. As such, these financial products are appropriate for investors, who are referred to as annuitants, who want stable, guaranteed retirement income. Because invested cash is illiquid and subject to withdrawal penalties, it is not recommended for younger individuals or for those with liquidity needs to use this financial product. An annuity goes through several different phases and periods. These are called: The accumulation phase, the period of time when an annuity is being funded and before payouts begin. Any money invested in the annuity grows on a tax-deferred basis during this stage. The annuitization phase, which kicks in once payments commence. These financial products can be immediate or deferred. Immediate annuities are often purchased by people of any age who have received a large lump sum of money, such as a settlement or lottery win, and who prefer to exchange it for cash flows into the future. Deferred annuities are structured to grow on a tax-deferred basis and provide annuitants with guaranteed income that begins on a date they specify. Annuities often come with complicated tax considerations, so it's important to understand how they work. As with any other financial product, be sure to consult with a professional before you purchase an annuity contract. Annuity products are regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). Agents or brokers selling annuities need to hold a state-issued life insurance license, and also a securities license in the case of variable annuities. These agents or brokers typically earn a commission based on the notional value of the annuity contract. Special Considerations Annuities usually have a surrender period. Annuitants cannot make withdrawals during this time, which may span several years, without paying a surrender charge or fee. Investors must consider their financial requirements during this time period. For example, if a major event requires significant amounts of cash, such as a wedding, then it might be a good idea to evaluate whether the investor can afford to make requisite annuity payments. Contracts also have an income rider that ensures a fixed income after the annuity kicks in. There are two questions that investors should ask when they consider income riders: At what age do they need the income? Depending on the duration of the annuity, the payment terms and interest rates may vary. What are the fees associated with the income rider? While there are some organizations that offer the income rider free of charge, most have fees associated with this service. Defined benefit pensions and Social Security are two examples of lifetime guaranteed annuities that pay retirees a steady cash flow until they pass. Many insurance companies will allow recipients to withdraw up to 10% of their account value without paying a surrender fee. However, if you withdraw more than that, you may end up paying a penalty, even if the surrender period has already lapsed. There are also tax implications for withdrawals before age 59 and a half. Because of the potentially high cost of withdrawals, some hard-up annuitants may opt to sell their annuity payments instead. This is similar to borrowing against any other income stream: the annuitant receives a lump sum, and in exchange gives up their right to some (or all) of their future annuity payments. Individuals who invest in annuities cannot outlive their income stream, which hedges longevity risk. So long as the purchaser understands that they are trading a liquid lump sum for a guaranteed series of cash flows, the product is appropriate. Some purchasers hope to cash out an annuity in the future at a profit, however, this is not the intended use of the product. Types of Annuities Annuities can be structured according to a wide array of details and factors, such as the duration of time that payments from the annuity can be guaranteed to continue. As mentioned above, annuities can be created so that payments continue so long as either the annuitant or their spouse (if survivorship benefit is elected) is alive. Alternatively, annuities can be structured to pay out funds for a fixed amount of time, such as 20 years, regardless of how long the annuitant lives. Immediate and Deferred Annuities Annuities can begin immediately upon deposit of a lump sum, or they can be structured as deferred benefits. The immediate payment annuity begins paying immediately after the annuitant deposits a lump sum. Deferred income annuities, on the other hand, don't begin paying out after the initial investment. Instead, the client specifies an age at which they would like to begin receiving payments from the insurance company. Depending on the type of annuity you choose, the annuity may or may not be able to recover some of the principal invested in the account. In the case of a straight, lifetime payout, there is no refund of the principalthe payments simply continue until the beneficiary dies. If the annuity is set for a fixed period of time, the recipient may be entitled to a refund of any remaining principalor their heirs, if the annuitant has deceased. Fixed and Variable Annuities Annuities can be structured generally as either fixed or variable: Fixed annuities provide regular periodic payments to the annuitant. Variable annuities allow the owner to receive larger future payments if investments of the annuity fund do well and smaller payments if its investments do poorly, which provides for less stable cash flow than a fixed annuity but allows the annuitant to reap the benefits of strong returns from their fund's investments. While variable annuities carry some market risk and the potential to lose principal, riders and features can be added to annuity contractsusually for an extra cost. This allows them to function as hybrid fixed-variable annuities. Contract owners can benefit from upside portfolio potential while enjoying the protection of a guaranteed lifetime minimum withdrawal benefit if the portfolio drops in value. Other riders may be purchased to add a death benefit to the agreement or to accelerate payouts if the annuity holder is diagnosed with a terminal illness. The cost of living rider is another common rider that will adjust the annual base cash flows for inflation based on changes in the consumer price index (CPI). Criticism of Annuities One criticism of annuities is that they are illiquid. Deposits into annuity contracts are typically locked up for a period of time, known as the surrender period, where the annuitant would incur a penalty if all or part of that money were touched. These periods can last anywhere from two to more than 10 years, depending on the particular product. Surrender fees can start out at 10% or more and the penalty typically declines annually over the surrender period. Annuities vs. Life Insurance Life insurance companies and investment companies are the two primary types of financial institutions offering annuity products. For life insurance companies, annuities are a natural hedge for their insurance products. Life insurance is bought to deal with mortality risk, which is the risk of dying prematurely. Policyholders pay an annual premium to the insurance company that will pay out a lump sum upon their death. If the policyholder dies prematurely, the insurer pays out the death benefit at a net loss to the company. Actuarial science and claims experience allow these insurance companies to price their policies so that on average insurance purchasers will live long enough so that the insurer earns a profit. In many cases, the cash value inside of permanent life insurance policies can be exchanged via a 1035 exchange for an annuity product without any tax implications. Annuities, on the other hand, deal with longevity risk, or the risk of outliving one's assets. The risk to the issuer of the annuity is that annuity holders will survive to outlive their initial investment. Annuity issuers may hedge longevity risk by selling annuities to customers with a higher risk of premature death. Example of an Annuity A life insurance policy is an example of a fixed annuity in which an individual pays a fixed amount each month for a pre-determined time period (typically 59.5 years) and receives a fixed income stream during their retirement years. An example of an immediate annuity is when an individual pays a single premium, say $200,000, to an insurance company and receives monthly payments, say $5,000, for a fixed time period afterward. The payout amount for immediate annuities depends on market conditions and interest rates. Annuities can be a beneficial part of a retirement plan, but annuities are complex financial vehicles. Because of their complexity, many employers don't offer them as part of an employee's retirement portfolio. However, the passage of the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act, signed into law by President Donald Trump in late December 2019, loosens the rules on how employers can select annuity providers and includes annuity options within 401(k) or 403(b) investment plans. The easement of these rules may trigger more annuity options open to qualified employees in the near future. Who Buys Annuities? Annuities are appropriate financial products for individuals seeking stable, guaranteed retirement income. Because the lump sum put into the annuity is illiquid and subject to withdrawal penalties, it is not recommended for younger individuals or for those with liquidity needs to use this financial product. Annuity holders cannot outlive their income stream, which hedges longevity risk. What Is a Non-Qualified Annuity? Annuities can be purchased with either pre-tax or after-tax dollars. A non-qualified annuity is one that has been purchased with after-tax dollars. A qualified annuity is one that has been purchased with pre-tax dollars. Qualified plans include 401(k) plans and 403(b) plans. Only the earnings of a non-qualified annuity are taxed at the time of withdrawal, not the contributions, as they are after-tax money. What Is an Annuity Fund? An annuity fund is the investment portfolio in which an annuity holder's funds are invested. The annuity fund earns returns, which correlate to the payout that an annuity holder receives. When an individual buys an annuity from an insurance company, they pay a premium. The premium is invested by the insurance company into an investment vehicle that contains stocks, bonds, and other securities, which is the annuity fund. What Is the Surrender Period? The surrender period is the amount of time an investor must wait before they can withdraw funds from an annuity without facing a penalty. Withdrawals made before the end of the surrender period can result in a surrender charge, which is essentially a deferred sales fee. This period generally spans several years. Investors can incur a significant penalty if they withdraw the invested amount before the surrender period is over. What Are Common Types of Annuities? Annuities are generally structured as either fixed or variable instruments. Fixed annuities provide regular periodic payments to the annuitant and are often used in retirement planning. Variable annuities allow the owner to receive larger future payments if investments of the annuity fund do well and smaller payments if its investments do poorly. This provides for less stable cash flow than a fixed annuity but allows the annuitant to reap the benefits of strong returns from their fund's investments. best online schoolingshows grade level based on the word's complexity. dayhop [ dey-hop ]/ dehp / New Word List Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.[ dey-hop ]/ dehp /Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. noun Informal.a day's journey; a distance that can be traveled in one day.a day student at a boarding school, college, or university. Words nearby dayhop QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Question dayhopFirst recorded in 196065; day + hopdayflower, dayfly, daygirl, Day-Glo, dayglow, dayhop, day hospital, day in court, day in court, have one's, day in, day out, day jasmineDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 The words among and amongst can cause a bit of confusion in peoples writing because not many of us are sure when to use which one. Are they just variations of the same word? Do they have different meanings? Do they have different functions within a sentence? In todays post, I want to address all of these questions so that youll never have to second-guess yourself while writing either of these words again. So what is the difference between among vs. amongst? The Difference Between Among and Amongst Among and amongst are both prepositions, meaning in the midst of, surrounded by, in the company of, or in association with. For example, A Northeasterner amongst Southerners. I found myself among the wealthy. There was a group of tourists amongst my group in the museum. Dont worry; youre among friends! They are always fighting amongst themselves. So youre now probably asking yourself, Okay, when do I know which one to use? The answer to this is that there is no demonstrable difference of sense or function between the two words. This means they can both be used interchangeably; it really is a matter of style for when you choose to use one over the other. Even though it is a matter of style, it is still important to keep your audience in mind when picking which word to use. For example, if you are writing a sophisticated novel, using amongst might be appropriate because it adds a sense of unique dialogue or conversation. But, if you are writing for everyday consumption in a newspaper or a similar outlet, amongis definitely the right choice for you. Some grammar books state that it is more common to use amongst before a word starting with a vowel. For example, Amongst other things, we will finish the house. This view, although still favored by some, is not supported by current usage trends. Which is More Common? Out of the two words, among is much more commonly used in modern English, being used at a ratio of 10:1 by some estimates. In British English, amongst is used somewhat more frequently than in American English, but even in Great Britain among is the favored variant. History of Among and Amongst Of these two words, amongis the earlier of the pair, first appearing during the Old English period. It comes from the antecedent on gemang, which yielded onmang before the year 1100. The variant amongstdidnt appear for another 500 years or so until the 16th century. It is believed that it emerged by form-association with superlatives among(e)st. So, even though amongstsounds like it would be the older of these two words, it is actually quite a bit younger than its older brother among. Summary Amongst vs. among are both prepositions, meaning in the company of or surrounded by. They can be used interchangeably, so choosing one over the other depends on writing style. Among is the more common variant in American and British English. nounDante Alighieri, 12651321, Italian poet: author of the Divine Comedy. How to use Dante Dante/ (dnt, dnte, Italian dante) / nounfull name Dante Alighieri (Italian alijri). 12651321, Italian poet famous for La Divina Commedia (?1309?1320), an allegorical account of his journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise, guided by Virgil and his idealized love Beatrice. His other works include La Vita Nuova (?1292), in which he celebrates his love for Beatrice Derived forms of Dante Dantean (dntn, dntin) or Dantesque (dntsk), adjective Cultural definitions for Dante Dante[ (dahn-tay, dan-tee) ] An Italian poet of the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries; his full name was Dante Alighieri. Dante is remembered for his masterpiece, The Divine Comedy, an epic about hell, purgatory, and heaven. The Divine Comedy was written as a memorial to Beatrice, a woman whom Dante loved and who died at an early age. Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition Copyright 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved. UK Prime Minister Liz Truss Photo:VCG Having spent less than seven weeks in 10 Downing Street,Liz Truss turned out to be the shortest-serving British prime minister in the history of the country. Her claim to become a new Margaret Thatcher for the modern Britain ended abruptly with an embarrassing resignation. It would be tempting to attribute this failure to Truss' bad luck, or to an unfortunate combination of specific personnel decisions, parliamentary blunders and outreach lapses that became lethal to the previously unstoppable political career of the successor to Boris Johnson. So, why don't we simply turn the page in the British history and hope that Rishi Sunak will do much better and will stay for much longer than unlucky Liz Truss did.However, there are reasons to believe that the problem we face here is not only about the bad luck Truss had or the specific mistakes Truss made. Rather, the problem might have much deeper roots in the very foundation of the contemporary liberal political systems.On one hand, universal imperatives of social and economic development call for long-term strategic planning that might almost by default imply that Western leaders should be ready to go for radical, painful and sometimes explicitly unpopular decisions. The art of leadership has always included the ability and commitment to think not only about what is likely to happen over next week or next month, but also about what might or might not take place in five or in 10, or even 20 years down the road.On the other hand, the existing rules of the political game in liberal democracies incentivize leaders to take mostly tactical, situational, ad hoc decisions guided by the very immediate political interests and considerations. These days, decision-makers simply cannot ignore continuous fluctuations in public opinion, potential moves of their political opponents and adversaries, positions of influential media outlets and omnipotent social networks.Liz Truss has become a victim of this contradiction between strategic goals and tactical considerations. Her cabinet announced intentions to slash taxes for the wealthiest individuals and biggest corporations with no plans to pay for it, took an unclear position on important environmental issues and, moreover, demonstrated a spectacularly low ability to act as a coherent and forward-looking team. Truss seemed to put tactics above strategy. As a result, she lost support within the Conservative Party while failing to get any compensation from the electorate of the Labour Party.One can argue that there is nothing new in this situation that throughout human history state leaders and politicians have always been squeezed between short-term and long-term considerations, between narrowly defined institutional interests and broader national interests, between the real needs and the stated desires of their respective constituencies. Still, today these eternal dilemmas are significantly complicated by the almost permanent fragility and instability of the ruling political coalitions in most of the Western liberal democracies.The sad fact is that the majority of contemporary liberal democracies remain deeply divided. Recent elections in the US and in France, in Italy and in the UK time and again reproduce such profound divisions - political, social, economic and even spiritual. Such divisions make men and women in power excessively dependent on their core electorate and group interests. This dependency almost excludes any opportunities for shaping and following a long-term strategic vision - be it in domestic or in foreign affairs. In this sense, Truss has become a victim of the established political system at least as much as a victim of her own mistakes and fallacies.Unfortunately, this situation is not likely to change anytime soon. Leaders with a narrow and flimsy political and social base cannot demonstrate a strong leadership, no matter how bright and committed they might be. In international affairs it means that the West is likely to continue looking into the past rather than into the future. In other words, the West will continue to focus on a restoration of the old unipolar turn of the century world order, not on building a new multipolar one.If this happens to be the case, the burden of forward-looking strategic thinking will have to gradually move away from the West to the maturing Rest, where societies are not that divided and where leaders can afford the luxury of a long-term vision and forward planning. One can only hope that the Rest will stand up to the occasion.The author is director general of the Russian International Affairs Council. [email protected] What Is the Maastricht Treaty?best sportsbook 2020 sloto star The term Maastricht Treaty refers to the international agreement that was responsible for the creation of the European Union (EU). The agreement was signed in 1992 in the Dutch city of Maastricht and became effective in 1993. It led to greater cooperation between the 12 member nations that signed the treaty by promoting unified citizenship, along with economic, social, and progress. The treaty also laid down the foundation for a single currency, the euro. It was amended several times since it was signed. As of October 2021, 27 member states were part of the European Union. Key Takeaways The Maastricht Treaty laid down the foundation for the European Union. The treaty was signed by 12 countries in the Dutch city of Maastricht in 1992 and went into effect in 1993. The agreement established greater cooperation between member states through economic, social, and legal channels. The Maastricht Treaty established the European Union's single currency system for the euro. The treaty was amended a number of times between 1997 and 2009. Understanding the Maastricht Treaty The Maastricht Treaty was signed in the Dutch city of Maastricht on Feb. 7, 1992, by representatives of 12 member nations that made up the European Community (EC). Discussions for the agreement began in December 1991. The concept of the EU was a topic of debate and required the approval of voters in each country, which included: Belgium Denmark France Germany Greece Ireland Italy Luxembourg Netherlands Portugal Spain United Kingdom and Northern Ireland Formally as the Treaty on European Union, the treaty went into effect on Nov. 1, 1993. The goal of the treaty was to increase cooperation by establishing common European citizenship to allow residents to move, live, and work freely between member states. It also created a shared economic, foreign policy, and security policy system. Member nations also agreed to cooperate on security and legal affairs. The treaty established a timeline for the creation and implementation of the European Economic and Monetary Union (EMU). The EMU was to include a common economic and monetary union, a central banking system, and a common currency. The European Central Bank (ECB) was in 1998 once the end of the year conversion rates between member states' currencies was fixed, a prelude to the creation of the euro, which began circulation in 2002. It also introduced the criteria that countries must meet if they want to join the euro. This was a measure to ensure that countries joining the euro were stable in inflation, levels of public debt, interest rates, and exchange rates. Nineteen of the countries use the euro as their official currency. Special Considerations The treaty was amended a number of times since it was first ratified: In 1997, the Treaty of Amsterdam added to some of the social protection points in the original treaty, including those referring to asylum seekers and immigration, sex discrimination, and living and working conditions. The Treaty of Nice, which went into effect in February 2003, reformed the Treaty of Maastricht in preparation for new member states. This agreement gave the Commission's president more autonomy from member state governments. It also provided member states with more power to integrate policies in some areas, despite the need for national vetoes. The Treaty of Lisbon amended existing treaties rather than replacing them. It established an EU presidency, strengthened the union's foreign policy representation, and transferred greater power to the union's judiciary, parliament, and commission. It went into effect in December 2009 after two years of votes in member countries. The United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union following a referendum referred to as Brexit. Its withdrawal formally took place on Jan. 31, 2020. Effects of the Maastricht Treaty The treaty granted EU citizenship to every citizen of a member state, allowing people to run for local office and for European Parliament elections in the EU country where they lived, regardless of nationality. By creating a common economic and monetary union, the agreement established the current central banking system. The ECB's main objective is to maintain price stability, which ultimately means to safeguard the value of the euro. This started with the free movement of capital between the member states, which led to increased cooperation between national central banks and the increased alignment of economic policy among member states. The final step was the introduction of the euro. A major goal was greater policy cooperation and coordination more generally. The environment, policing, and social policy were just some of a number of areas in which the countries aimed to increase cooperation and coordination. Illustration: Xia Qing/GT In a recent New York Times article (published on October 21) analyzing the new US chip strangulation strategy against China,two words are used. The first appears in the headline, "Biden Just Clobbered China's Chip Industry." The English dictionary explains the word "clobber" as "defeat decisively or strike heavily."Another word, "devastate," appears in the text, "Analysts I spoke to said the rules will devastate China's domestic chip industry, potentially setting it back decades." This word is often used to describe the tragic aftermath of war, "to lay waste; render desolate."If we use the two words judging the reality and future of US-China relations, we will immediately think about "a war." It's a war without artillery fight.What we generally understand is that the Biden administration seeks to secure its dominance in this global high-tech frontier through a chip strategy.How this advantage is maintained and continued is probably the core. One of the most important strategic arrangements is to "devastate" China's chip and its related industries.There is no cooperation, no win-win, only a blockade and "zero-sum" results. This is not containment, but strangulation.For high-end technology, one of the main drivers of China's future development, this is a real war.Some American scholars have likened this to the oil embargo imposed on Japan by the US before the Pacific War. The metaphor here is that this could lead China, like Japan, to eventually go to war against the US. The logic of such an analysis is consistent with the US experience and historical view of empire and hegemony.So far, China has not taken any strong countermeasures. What China has been emphasizing is to further strengthen its independent research and development, to break through the US' blockade with the spirit of self-reliance and hard work, and to concentrate its superior "forces" to move to the top of high technology.China's policy is based on having a large-scale, all-round, multi-level manufacturing system, which also includes an industrial and scientific research base to advance to high-end chip technology.Washington's introduction of a chip strategy has either intentionally or unintentionally ignored the laws that lead the development of the chip industry, as well as more high-tech fields. The US itself has also possessed a relatively large scientific research and industrial base to achieve high-end breakthroughs. This is mainly achieved on the basis of independent forces. Why is it possible for the US to succeed, but not for China?Of course, the US control of chip exports and their equipment and technology to China will slow down China's breakthrough to the high-end. But that's a "slow down," not a collapse.China is not without room to fight back. I'm afraid it's not just US companies that will lose a large market that allows them to reap huge profits. Given so many Americans use mid-range and high-end products containing "Made in China," if they are now to be without Chinese technology and manufacturing, can these products, including Apple phones, be produced properly?Remember, even American warplanes have parts that are made in China. This gives China enough space to design and operate a strong counterattack.As for comparing China to World War II Japan, that would be a fundamental strategic mistake. The 20th National Congress of Communist Party of China clearly stated to the world China's basic foreign relations policy. China will never claim hegemony and never expand.It is not that some people in the West are not aware of the logic of China's peaceful development. The reason why they will always use the old rhetoric to exaggerate China's aggressiveness out of nothing is fundamentally the creation of public opinion by capitalist forces in order to stifle China and hold on to its possession of the global market (including the seizure of the Chinese market).The biggest thing the US forgets is that they are "fighting" against a country with a strong industrial base, and that the two countries are so deeply connected in the industrial and trade chains. If it wants to "destroy" China, even in just one or two industrial areas, first of all, get ready to be hit back.The author is a senior editor with People's Daily, and currently a senior fellow with the Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies at Renmin University of China. d [email protected] . Follow him on Twitter @dinggangchina NANNING,real money roulette betonalfa app Nov. 16 (Xinhua) -- More than 7,000 middle school teachers and students from 57 countries and regions are attending the "6th Belt and Road Teenager Maker Camp & Teacher Workshop," which opened in Nanning, capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, on Tuesday. Participants can share abundant learning resources and join exchange activities such as dialogues with scientists and scientific seminars -- both offline and online -- at the camp. More than 500 transportation experts will deliver popular science courses to the teenagers, while engineering and technology personnel from more than 20 enterprises will provide them with online tutoring. Participants can also visit China online and experience traditional Chinese culture in the process. The camp aims to build a platform for teachers and students from countries along the Belt and Road to communicate with each other and improve the teenagers' scientific literacy, according to the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST). The camp, jointly sponsored by the CAST, the Ministry of Science and Technology, and the regional governments of Guangxi and Chongqing Municipality, will last until the end of November. Japanese lawmaker Mikio Shimoji admitted on Monday to taking cash in campaign contributions from Chinese online sports lottery operator 500.com amid a bribery scandal that has rocked Japan as it is looking to introduce legal casino gambling. Mr. Shimoji is a member of opposition party Nippon Ishin no Kai and sits in the Lower House of the Japanese Diet, known to be the countrys bicameral legislature. At a news conference in Naha, the lawmaker said that he is yet to decide whether he would resign from his political party. He is one of six lawmakers who were questioned by Tokyo prosecutors over the alleged receipt of money from 500.com since the bribery scandal broke in December. And Mr. Shimoji is the only one of all questioned lawmakers to have admitted to taking moneyfrom the Chinese gambling company. The case came to light after Liberal Democratic Party member Tsukasa Akimoto was arrested by Tokyo prosecutors on December 25 for allegedly accepting JPY3.7 million from 500.com to help the company win a licensefor an integrated casino resort in Hokkaido. Mr. Akimoto maintains his innocence, but the scandal has only been snowballing into a larger and larger global story since it first surfaced. Political Contributions Mr. Shimoji said Monday that an employee at his office in Naha had taken an envelope with JPY1 millionin October 2017 from a 500.com adviser. The lawmakers office did not declare the money in its funds and expenditure reports for election campaigns and other political activities, something Mr. Shimoji said that he regretted extremely. The lawmaker, along with other fellow legislators who were questioned in relation to the bribery case, also noted that he had never tried to persuade any government agency to favor 500.com in its bid to win a casino licensein Japan. He further revealed that he would return the money to the 500.com adviser he had received it from. Mr. Shimoji and four other lawmakers appeared on Tokyo prosecutors radar screens last week after Katsunori Nakazato, who served as a 500.com adviser, told investigators that he had handed JPY1 million to each of said five lawmakers around September and October 2017. It was around that time when 500.com also delivered JPY3 million in cash to Mr. Akimoto. Mr. Shimoji and the other four lawmakers were questioned voluntarily last week, but his four colleagues denied the bribery allegations leveled against them. Mr. Akimoto will remain under arrest until at least January 14. No other lawmakers were detainedin relation to the bribery scandal. However, three 500.com employees, including the head of the companys Japanese operation, were detained and will remain under detention for now. Japan is targeting mid-2020s openingof its first integrated casino resorts, but it is to be seen whether and how the bribery case would affect its plans. Mr. Akimoto was previously tasked with overseeing the drafting of a policy that aimed to set out the rules under which casino licenses would be granted. Four of the five questioned lawmakers were members of a cross-party group that promoted the legalization of casino gamblingin the Diet. Source:Nippon Ishin lawmaker Mikio Shimoji admits taking money in casino scandal Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date on the days top casino news stories Set against the backdrop of a recession and the highest inflation rate in decades,online blackjack nz bclc keno live British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his finance minister, Jeremy Hunt, unveiled on Thursday a massive package of spending cuts and tax rises designed to balance Britains financial books and restore its credibility in international markets. But the question on everyones mind is whether the latest plans are a political decision, not an economic necessityand one that could hurt ordinary Britons while putting the U.K. on shakier economic footing. Britains latest economic planits second in as many months following former Prime Minister Liz Trusss market-crashing budget in Octobersets out 55 billion roughly divided between public spending cuts and tax hikes over the next five years. Among the main tax and spend measures include a freeze on the income threshold at which people begin to pay taxes (effectively a stealth tax that results in people paying more in taxes as their wages rise with inflation) and an increase in the windfall tax on oil and gas producers. Many of the proposed public sector cuts will not take effect until after the next election, slated for January 2025 at the latest, thus forestalling some economic pain and creating a political problem for the next government. The Office for Budget Responsibility, a fiscal watchdog, released its November growth forecast following Hunts statementpredicting that Britains economy would shrink by 1.4% next year, with living standards falling 7% over the next two years and wiping out the last eight years of gains. The scale of the economic overhaul might remind many Britons of the austerity measures introduced by David Camerons government in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis under then-finance minister George Osborne, resulting in what a United Nations report described as great misery for many Britons that included decimated public services and rampant poverty, contributing to people dying younger across the U.K. In a statement to the House of Commons on Thursday, Hunt, who once described Osborne as his old friend, said that the plan would help Britain face into the storm, while prioritizing stability, growth, and public services. No one can say that they werent warned austerity was coming. In his first speech outside 10 Downing Street last month, Sunak, who took office with the support of around 200 Conservative MPs after Truss was forced to step down, told Britons that difficult decisions would have to be made in order to restore economic stability and confidence in the country. His remarks came on the heels of weeks of economic insecurity following his predecessors libertarian gamble that tanked the pound and cost the country an estimated 30 billion ($35 billion), or nearly half of the countrys so-called fiscal black hole, after Trusss government announced a series of unfunded tax cuts that would largely benefit the wealthiest Britons, spooking global markets and prompting a rare rebuke from the IMF. Read More: Why U.K. Nurses Voted to Strike for the First Time Everand What That Means for Hospitals As Sunakwho was previously finance minister under former Prime Minister Boris Johnsonand Hunt have suggested, filling this black hole is imperative to restoring sound public finances and British credibility on the world stage. But many economists take a different view. As they see it, the black hole is not so much an economic certainty but a cosmic mirageone that risks plummeting the country further into recession and stunting growth at the worst possible time. For all of the focus on the fiscal black hole, there doesnt appear to be a clear public understanding of what it actually means. According to James Meadway, the director of the Progressive Economy Forum and a former economic advisor to former Labour Party Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell, it is this certainly colorful metaphor for something very technical and imprecise. The arithmetic behind the so-called black hole is based on Britains economic growth forecasts (which is lagging behind other G7 countries), the interest rates on the governments outstanding borrowings (which soared under Truss, but have fallen since), and the governments own debt target levels, explains Meadway. George Dibb, the head of the Centre for Economic Justice at the liberal Institute for Public Policy Research think tank, put it like this: The black hole is the difference between the governments own stated fiscal rules and their spending plans. In the case of this government, the target is for debt to fall as a share of the economy within five years. In other words, how big the black hole is depends in part on what the government deems to be sustainable public finance. This context of black holes makes it sound like some kind of hole that we are about to fall into [or that] there are red lines, which if we cross, the economy is going to go into crisisand thats not the case, says Dibb. Rather, the fiscal black hole is the result of political choices, he says. If the government chooses to have a certain fiscal rule, that black hole could disappear instantly. None of this is to say that Britains economic outlook is at all good. The country has taken on considerable debt in its response to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as its efforts to shield British households and businesses from the worst effects of the energy crisis spurred by Russias invasion of Ukraine. Inflation, which last month hit a 40-year high of 11.1%, is chipping away at the value of the governments previous commitments, including for sectors that are already being squeezed such as the National Health Service. Public sector workers such as rail operators, teachers, and nurses are demanding higher wages to keep up with inflation. It hasnt helped, of course, that the interest rates on government borrowing have also soared, thanks in large part to Sunaks predecessor Truss. We are materially worse off given rising energy prices and rising government debtthere is no way around that, says Dibb. But as he and others argue, massive spending cuts wont resolve these issues. Rather, they simply create a doom loop in which a lack of investment leads to low productivity and slower economic growth or even a recession, thus triggering continued spending cuts and tax rises that can even lead to higher debt levels had austerity not been pursued. Cutting your spending as we go into recession is the opposite of a Keynesian response, he says, referring to a school of economic thought that calls for economic stimulus in difficult conditions. Part of the reason that governments resort to spending cuts is because they are politically easiest to do. They are also bolstered by the argument, made by those who helped introduce austerity in 2010, that spending cuts give governments more capacity to borrow when major crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic arrive. But this, like the fiscal black hole itself, can be misleading. Because what Britain had in financial readiness to tackle the pandemic, it lacked in public health sector resilience to deal with its worst effects, in part because the National Health Service had been was crippled by years of austerity. Youve chased this financial outcome, the government seems to have less debt than it might have otherwise, you have much more capacity to borrow, says Meadway, but youve actually damaged the real economy and wider society, which is your real barrier against shocks in the future. In apparent anticipation of concerns over the NHS, Hunt announced that the government would commit to increase the health services budget by an extra 3.3 billion in each of the next two years. While the desire for fiscal responsibility is one reason that the government has taken these budgetary steps, the other stems from its desire to restore Britains international credibility, especially after Trusss tax cuts unleashed turmoil on the financial markets. They want to demonstrate that the grown ups are back in the room and these people are back in charge who are sensible and doing all the things which are not going to lead to further market turmoil, says Dibb. But in seeking to please the markets, however, the government may have overcorrectedinflicting more economic pain than is strictly necessary. Developer and provider of online casino content Betsoft Gaming announced Wednesday that it has inked a content supply deal with online gambling operator OGaming. Under the terms of the agreement, Betsoft will be able to roll out its full portfolio of games across the operators brands, which are set to grow in number this year. Earlier this year, Betsoft scooped the Best Online Gambling Developeraward at the inaugural Corporate Vision Media Innovator Awards. One of the innovations the company was praised for was its recently released Max Quest: Wrath of Rareal-money RNG game which replaces reels and symbols players can find in traditional slots with a multi-player shootem up experience. Under the terms of its recently clinched deal with OGaming, Betsoft will roll out its full portfolio of casino gameswith the operators Curacao-licensed online gaming and sports betting brand RioAposta. RioAposta is a newly launched online gambling brand that specifically targets gamblers from Braziland the rest of the LatAm region. Aside from Betsoft, it also features content by NetEnt, Evolution Gaming, and Microgaming, among a number of other prominent online casino suppliers. Under its deal with OGaming, Betsoft will also be able to launch its games with the operators EagleBet brand, which is slated to go live in the coming weeks. OGaming will expand its portfolio of brandswith a third operation later this year. LatAm Expansion Betsofts content supply deal with OGaming will secure the company with the opportunity to further expand its presence across Latin America. The agreement with the RioAposta operator follows a similar one with online gambling group Caliente in Mexico, which Betsoft announced earlier this year. Aside from the LatAm region, the supplier has also recently expanded internationally though a content supply deal with Bethard and in Belgium through a similar deal with locally licensed operator Carousel. Of their OGaming partnership, Betsoft Sales Executive Francesca Raniolo said that they have made it a key point to expand in a number of growing markets, and this is yet another statement of intent. OGaming CEO Thomas Golding added that they are always looking to add new, dynamic contentthat will enhance our customer experienceand that Betsofts portfolio of immersive games will certainly offer their players some fantastic new titles to play. Aside from its Corporate Vision Media Innovator Awards recognition, Betsoft also won last month the Innovation in RNG Casino Softwareaward at the annual EGR B2B Awards. The company was praised for its revolutionary release Max Quest: Wrath of Raat the awards ceremony which took place at the Tower of London at the end of June. Betsoft has promised to showcase some of its latest releases, including Gold Canyonand Spinfinity Man, at the ongoing iGB Live! show in Amsterdam. The providers portfolio of online casino games is managed by its modular and fully customisable back office Casino Manager, which includes game reporting, administration, and marketing tools. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date on the days top casino news stories. What Is the Residual Sum of Squares (RSS)?non au casinos accepting au players The residual sum of squares (RSS) is a statistical technique used to measure the amount of variance in a data set that is not explained by a regression model itself. Instead, it estimates the variance in the residuals, or error term. Linear regression is a measurement that helps determine the strength of the relationship between a dependent variable and one or more other factors, known as independent or explanatory variables. Key Takeaways The residual sum of squares (RSS) measures the level of variance in the error term, or residuals, of a regression model. The smaller the residual sum of squares, the better your model fits your data; the greater the residual sum of squares, the poorer your model fits your data. A value of zero means your model is a perfect fit. Statistical models are used by investors and portfolio managers to track an investment's price and use that data to predict future movements. The RSS is used by financial analysts in order to estimate the validity of their econometric models. Understanding the Residual Sum of Squares In general terms, the sum of squares is a statistical technique used in regression analysis to determine the dispersion of data points. In a regression analysis, the goal is to determine how well a data series can be fitted to a function that might help to explain how the data series was generated. The sum of squares is used as a mathematical way to find the function that best fits (varies least) from the data. The RSS measures the amount of error remaining between the regression function and the data set after the model has been run. A smaller RSS figure represents a regression function that is well-fit to the data. The RSS, also known as the sum of squared residuals, essentially determines how well a regression model explains or represents the data in the model. How to Calculate the Residual Sum of Squares RSS = n i=1 (yi- f(x i ))2 Where: y i = the ithvalue of the variable to be predicted f(x i ) = predicted value of y i n = upper limit of summation Residual Sum of Squares (RSS) vs. Residual Standard Error (RSE) The residual standard error (RSE) is another statistical term used to describe the difference in standard deviations of observed values versus predicted values as shown by points in a regression analysis. It is a goodness-of-fit measure that can be used to analyze how well a set of data points fit with the actual model. RSE is computed by dividing the RSS by the number of observations in the sample less 2, and then taking the square root: RSE = [RSS/(n-2)]1/2 Special Considerations Financial markets have increasingly become more quantitatively driven; as such, in search of an edge, many investors are using advanced statistical techniques to aid in their decisions. Big data, machine learning, and artificial intelligence applications further necessitate the use of statistical properties to guide contemporary investment strategies. The residual sum of squaresor RSS statisticsis one of many statistical properties enjoying a renaissance. Statistical models are used by investors and portfolio managers to track an investment's price and use that data to predict future movements. The studycalled regression analysismight involve analyzing the relationship in price movements between a commodity and the stocks of companies engaged in producing the commodity. Finding the residual sum of squares (RSS) by hand can be difficult and time-consuming. Because it involves a lot of subtracting, squaring, and summing, the calculations can be prone to errors. For this reason, you may decide to use software, such as Excel, to do the calculations. Any model might have variances between the predicted values and actual results. Although the variances might be explained by the regression analysis, the RSS represents the variances or errors that are not explained. Since a sufficiently complex regression function can be made to closely fit virtually any data set, further study is necessary to determine whether the regression function is, in fact, useful in explaining the variance of the dataset. Typically, however, a smaller or lower value for the RSS is ideal in any model since it means there's less variation in the data set. In other words, the lower the sum of squared residuals, the better the regression model is at explaining the data. Example of the Residual Sum of Squares For a simple (but lengthy) demonstration of the RSS calculation, consider the well-known correlation between a country's consumer spending and its GDP. The following chart reflects the published values of consumer spending and Gross Domestic Product for the 27 states of the European Union, as of 2020. Consumer Spending vs. GDP for EU Member States Country Consumer Spending (Millions) GDP (Millions) Austria 309,018.88 433,258.47 Belgium 388,436.00 521,861.29 Bulgaria 54,647.31 69,889.35 Croatia 47,392.86 57,203.78 Cyprus 20,592.74 24,612.65 Czech Republic 164,933.47 245,349.49 Denmark 251,478.47 356,084.87 Estonia 21,776.00 30,650.29 Finland 203,731.24 269,751.31 France 2,057,126.03 2,630,317.73 Germany 2,812,718.45 3,846,413.93 Greece 174,893.21 188,835.20 Hungary 110,323.35 155,808.44 Ireland 160,561.07 425,888.95 Italy 1,486,910.44 1,888,709.44 Latvia 25,776.74 33,707.32 Lithuania 43,679.20 56,546.96 Luxembourg 35,953.29 73,353.13 Malta 9,808.76 14,647.38 Netherlands 620,050.30 913,865.40 Poland 453,186.14 596,624.36 Portugal 190,509.98 228,539.25 Romania 198,867.77 248,715.55 Slovak Republic 83,845.27 105,172.56 Slovenia 37,929.24 53,589.61 Spain 997,452.45 1,281,484.64 Sweden 382,240.92 541,220.06 World Bank, 2020. Consumer spending and GDP have a strong positive correlation, and it is possible to predict a country's GDP based on consumer spending (CS). Using the formula for a best fit line, this relationship can be approximated as: GDP = 1.3232 x CS + 10447 The units for both GDP and Consumer Spending are in millions of U.S. dollars. This formula is highly accurate for most purposes, but it is not perfect, due to the individual variations in each country's economy. The following chart compares the projected GDP of each country, based on the formula above, and the actual GDP as recorded by the World Bank. Projected and Actual GDP Figures for EU Member States, and Residual Squares Country Consumer Spending Most Recent Value (Millions) GDP Most Recent Value (Millions) Projected GDP (Based on Trendline) Residual Square (Projected - Real)^2 Austria 309,018.88 433,258.47 419,340.782016 193,702,038.819978 Belgium 388,436.00 521,861.29 524,425.52 6,575,250.87631504 Bulgaria 54,647.31 69,889.35 82,756.320592 165,558,932.215393 Croatia 47,392.86 57,203.78 73,157.232352 254,512,641.947534 Cyprus 20,592.74 24,612.65 37,695.313568 171,156,086.033474 Czech Republic 164,933.47 245,349.49 228,686.967504 277,639,655.929706 Denmark 251,478.47 356,084.87 343,203.311504 165,934,549.28587 Estonia 21,776.00 30,650.29 39,261.00 74,144,381.8126542 Finland 203,731.24 269,751.31 280,024.176768 105,531,791.633079 France 2,057,126.03 2,630,317.73 2,732,436.162896 10,428,174,337.1349 Germany 2,812,718.45 3,846,413.93 3,732,236.05304 13,036,587,587.0929 Greece 174,893.21 188,835.20 241,865.695472 2,812,233,450.00581 Hungary 110,323.35 155,808.44 156,426.85672 382,439.239575558 Ireland 160,561.07 425,888.95 222,901.407824 41,203,942,278.6534 Italy 1,486,910.44 1,888,709.44 1,977,926.894208 7,959,754,135.35658 Latvia 25,776.74 33,707.32 44,554.782368 117,667,439.825176 Lithuania 43,679.20 56,546.96 68,243.32 136,804,777.364243 Luxembourg 35,953.29 73,353.13 58,020.393328 235,092,813.852894 Malta 9,808.76 14,647.38 23,425.951232 77,063,312.875298 Netherlands 620,050.30 913,865.40 830,897.56 6,883,662,978.71 Poland 453,186.14 596,624.36 610,102.900448 181,671,052.608372 Portugal 190,509.98 228,539.25 262,529.805536 1,155,357,865.6459 Romania 198,867.77 248,715.55 273,588.833264 618,680,220.331183 Slovak Republic 83,845.27 105,172.56 121,391.061264 263,039,783.25037 Slovenia 37,929.24 53,589.61 60,634.970368 49,637,102.7149851 Spain 997,452.45 1,281,484.64 1,330,276.08184 2,380,604,796.8261 Sweden 382,240.92 541,220.06 516,228.185344 624,593,798.821215 World Bank, 2020. The column on the right indicates the residual squaresthe squared difference between each projected value and its actual value. The numbers appear large, but their sum is actually lower than the RSS for any other possible trendline. If a different line had a lower RSS for these data points, that line would be the best fit line. Is the Residual Sum of Squares the Same as R-Squared? The residual sum of squares (RSS) is the absolute amount of explained variation, whereas R-squared is the absolute amount of variation as a proportion of total variation. Is RSS the Same as the Sum of Squared Estimate of Errors (SSE)? The residual sum of squares (RSS) is also known as the sum of squared estimate of errors (SSE). What Is the Difference Between the Residual Sum of Squares and Total Sum of Squares? The total sum of squares (TSS) measures how much variation there is in the observed data, while the residual sum of squares measures the variation in the error between the observed data and modeled values. In statistics, the values for the residual sum of squares and the total sum of squares (TSS) are oftentimes compared to each other. Can a Residual Sum of Squares Be Zero? The residual sum of squares can be zero. The smaller the residual sum of squares, the better your model fits your data; the greater the residual sum of squares, the poorer your model fits your data. A value of zero means your model is a perfect fit. What Is an Ocean Bill of Lading?panda betting site rocket gambling An ocean bill of lading is a document required for the transportation of goods overseas across international waters. An ocean bill of lading serves as both the carrier's receipt to the shipper, and as a collection document or an invoice. The contract is a legally binding document between both the shipper and the carrier of the shipment. A bill of lading is a legal document or contract between the shipper and carrier which details the type, quantity, and destination of goods being carried. The bill of lading serves as a receipt of shipment when the goods are delivered at the predetermined destination. There are different kinds of bills of lading, each with unique stipulations and conditions. How an Ocean Bill of Lading Works An ocean bill of lading allows the shipper to move goods across international waters. This document or contract provides the specifics involving the nature of the shipment including what and how much material is being transported, along with where the goods will be shipped. Other information outlined in the contract includes the value of the goods shipped and the type of packing used during transport. The shipper receives the contract when the goods are picked up. The document must be signed by both the shipper and the carrier. Once the shipment is complete, the document is given to the receiver. Upon delivery and receipt, the receiver must also sign the contract. There is an additional documentknown as an inland bill of ladingthat is required if the goods are to be transported first over land. This inland bill only allows the materials to reach the shore, while the ocean bill allows the goods to be transported overseas. Inland bills of lading are required if the shipment needs to travel further in the destination country after it arrives at the dock. Example of Ocean Bill of Lading Ocean bills of lading, as mentioned above, are used when goods are transported overseas through waterways. When a car manufacturer ships vehicles to a dealership overseas, it needs an ocean bill of lading to complete the transfer of goods. If the vehicles must be transferred further into the destination countryso further from the portit must have an inland bill of lading to move the vehicles. So a U.S.-based dealership will sign an ocean bill of lading with a Japanese carmaker for the transport of vehicles to the United States. An additional inland bill of lading is required if the shipment arrives in Seattle, but is destined for Billings, Montana. Key Takeaways An ocean bill of lading is a document required for the transportation of goods overseas across international waters. The contract is legal and outlines the type, quantity, and destination of goods being carried. The shipper and carrier sign the ocean bill of lading upon shipment, and the receiver signs the document upon receipt. Common Types of Ocean Bills of Lading There are several different types of ocean bills of lading that are used. The straight bill of lading is non-negotiable and is marked as such. The only person who has a claim to the goods when they reach the destination port is the person named on the bill. These bills generally involve parties that have open accounts, where the shipper may not require the funds from the receiver up front. The non-negotiable ocean bill of lading allows the buyer to receive the goods upon showing identification. A shipper's order is a negotiable bill of lading and is generally put into place when the shipper wishes to ensure certain terms and conditions are met before the shipment is released to the receiver. This is used when the receiver's payment is backed by a letter of credit. What Is Annualized Total Return?buy fruit machines au An annualized total return is the geometric average amount of money earned by an investment each year over a given time period. The annualized return formula is calculated as a geometric average to show what an investor would earn over a period of time if the annual return was compounded. An annualized total return provides only a snapshot of an investment's performance and does not give investors any indication of its volatility or price fluctuations. Key Takeaways An annualized total return is the geometric average amount of money earned by an investment each year over a given time period. The annualized return formula shows what an investor would earn over a period of time if the annual return was compounded. Calculating the annualized rate of return needs only two variables: the returns for a given period and the time the investment was held. Annualized Total Return Understanding Annualized Total Return 1:15 To understand annualized total return, we'll compare the hypothetical performances of two mutual funds. Below is the annualized rate of return over a five-year period for the two funds: Mutual Fund A Returns: 3%, 7%, 5%, 12% and 1% Mutual Fund B Returns: 4%, 6%, 5%, 6%, and 6.7% Both mutual funds have an annualized rate of return of 5.5%, but Mutual Fund A is much more volatile. Its standard deviation is 4.2%, while Mutual Fund B's standard deviation is only 1%. Even when analyzing an investment's annualized return, it is important to review risk statistics. Annualized Return Formula and Calculation The formula to calculate annualized rate of return needs only two variables: the returns for a given period of time and the time the investment was held. The formula is: Annualized Return = ( ( 1 + r 1 ) ( 1 + r 2 ) ( 1 + r 3 ) ( 1 + r n ) ) 1 n 1 \begin{ aligned} \text{ Annualized Return} = &\big ( (1 + r_1 ) \times (1 + r_2) \times (1 + r_3) \times \\ &\dots \times (1 + r_n) \big ) ^ \frac{ 1}{ n} - 1 \\ \end{ aligned} Annualized Return=((1+r1)(1+r2)(1+r3)(1+rn))n11 For example, take the annual rates of returns of Mutual Fund A above. An analyst substitutes each of the "r" variables with the appropriate return, and "n" with the number of years the investment was held. In this case, five years. The annualized return of Mutual Fund A is calculated as: Annualized Return = ( ( 1 + . 0 3 ) ( 1 + . 0 7 ) ( 1 + . 0 5 ) ( 1 + . 1 2 ) ( 1 + . 0 1 ) ) 1 5 1 = 1 . 3 0 9 0 . 2 0 1 = 1 . 0 5 5 3 1 = . 0 5 5 3 , or 5 . 5 3 % \begin{ aligned} \text{ Annualized Return} &= \big ( (1 + .03) \times (1 + .07) \times (1 + .05) \times \\ &\quad \quad (1 + .12) \times (1 + .01) \big ) ^ \frac{ 1}{ 5} -1 \\ &= 1.309 ^ { 0.20} - 1 \\ &= 1.0553 - 1 \\ &= .0553, \text{ or } 5.53\% \\ \end{ aligned} Annualized Return=((1+.03)(1+.07)(1+.05)(1+.12)(1+.01))511=1.3090.201=1.05531=.0553,or 5.53% An annualized return does not have to be limited to yearly returns. If an investor has a cumulative return for a given period, even if it is a specific number of days, an annualized performance figure can be calculated; however, the annual return formula must be slightly adjusted to: Annualized Return = ( 1 + Cumulative Return ) 3 6 5 Days Held 1 \begin{ aligned} &\text{ Annualized Return} = ( 1 + \text{ Cumulative Return} ) ^ \frac { 365}{ \text{ Days Held} } - 1 \\ \end{ aligned} Annualized Return=(1+Cumulative Return)Days Held3651 For example, assume a mutual fund was held by an investor for 575 days and earned a cumulative return of 23.74%. The annualized rate of return would be: Annualized Return = ( 1 + . 2 3 7 4 ) 3 6 5 5 7 5 1 = 1 . 1 4 5 1 = . 1 4 5 , or 1 4 . 5 % \begin{ aligned} \text{ Annualized Return} &= ( 1 + .2374) ^ \frac{ 365}{ 575} - 1 \\ &= 1.145 - 1 \\ &= .145, \text{ or } 14.5\% \\ \end{ aligned} Annualized Return=(1+.2374)5753651=1.1451=.145,or 14.5% Difference Between Annualized Return and Average Return Calculations of simple averages only work when numbers are independent of each other. The annualized return is used because the amount of investment lost or gained in a given year is interdependent with the amount from the other years under consideration because of compounding. For example, if a mutual fund manager loses half of her client's money, she has to make a 100% return to break even. Using the more accurate annualized return also gives a clearer picture when comparing various mutual funds or the return of stocks that have traded over different time periods. Reporting Annualized Return According to the Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS), a set of standardized, industry-wide principles that guide the ethics of performance reporting, any investment that does not have a track record of at least 365 days cannot "ratchet up" its performance to be annualized. Thus, if a fund has been operating for only six months and earned 5%, it is not allowed to say its annualized performance is approximately 10% since that is predicting future performance instead of stating facts from the past. In other words, calculating an annualized rate of return must be based on historical numbers. How Is Annualized Total Return Calculated? The annualized total return is a metric that captures the average annual performance of an investment or portfolio of investments. It is calculated as a geometric average, meaning that it captures the effects of compounding over time. The annualized total return is sometimes referred to as the Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR). What Is the Difference Between an Annualized Total Return and an Average Return? The key difference between the Annualized Total Return and the Average Return is that the Annualized Total Return captures the effects of compounding, whereas the Average Return does not. For example, consider the case of an investment that loses 50% of its value in year 1, but has a 100% return in year 2. Simply averaging these two percentages would give you an Average Return of 25% per year. However, common sense would tell you that the investor in this scenario has actually broken even on their money (losing half its value in year one, then regaining that loss in year 2). This fact would be better captured by the Annualized Total Return, which would be 0.00% in this instance. What Is the Difference Between the Annualized Total Return and the Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) The Annualized Total Return is conceptually the same as the CAGR, in that both formulas seek to capture the geometric return of an investment over time. The main difference between them is that the CAGR is often presented using only the beginning and ending values, whereas the Annualized Total Return is typically calculated using the returns from several years. This, however, is more a matter of convention. In substance, the two measures are the same. What Is Residual Income?blockchain technology research paper pdf Residual income is the money that continues to flow after an initial investment of time and resources has been completed. Examples of residual income include artist royalties, rental income, interest income, and dividend payments. The term residual income is used in other contexts: In personal finance, residual income can refer to an individual's discretionary income, or the total amount of money left over after paying all personal debts and obligations. In corporate finance, residual income is a measurement of corporate performance that reflects the total income generated after paying all relevant costs of capital. Key Takeaways Personal residual income is not generated by hourly wages. Rather, it requires an initial investment of money or time or both with the primary objective of earning ongoing revenue. Residual income is often referred to as passive income. Sources of residual income include real estate investing, stocks, bonds, and royalties. Corporate residual income is leftover profit after paying all costs of capital. Residual Income How Residual Income Works 1:21 Residual income broadly speaking is a measurement of tangential profits earned after subtracting all costs of capital related to generating that income. Other terms for residual income include economic value-added, economic profit, and abnormal earnings. Although residual income is sometimes known as passive income, side hustles can be used to boost personal residual income. Types of Residual Income Stock Valuation Residual income is also a valuation method for estimating the intrinsic value of a company's common stock. It accounts for the cost of capital, meaning the combination of debt and equity expended to finance the company's operations. The residual income valuation model values a company as the sum of book value and the present value of expected future residual income. Residual income in this case is the profit remaining after the deduction of opportunity costs for all sources of capital. Residual income is calculated as net income less a charge for the cost of capital. This is known as the equity charge and is calculated as the value of equity capital multiplied by the cost of equity or the required rate of return on equity. The formula is: Residual Income = Net Income - Equity Charge Given the opportunity cost of equity, a company can have positive net income but negative residual income. Corporate Finance Managerial accounting defines residual income for a company as the amount of leftover operating profit after paying all costs of capital used to generate the revenues. It is also considered the company's net operating income or the amount of profit that exceeds its required rate of return. Residual income in this case may be used to assess the performance of a capital investment, a team, a department, or a business unit. The calculation of residual income is as follows: Residual income = operating income - (minimum required return x operating assets). Personal Finance In personal finance, residual income is synonymous with monthly disposable income. It is the total income that remains after paying all monthly debts. Thus, residual income is often a key factor when a lender considers a loan application. An adequate amount of residual income indicates that the borrower can cover the monthly loan payment. How to Generate Residual Income Most sources of residual income require an upfront investment of money, sweat equity, or both. Some examples: Buy bonds. Once the bonds are purchased, the owner has a stream of cash available until the bonds reach their maturity. Buy a rental property. Renting out a second home or investment property is a sound way to add to your income without much effort after the initial investment. If you lack the seed money, consider renting out a spare bedroom. Invest in index funds: Your profits can grow over time even if you don't actively manage your investment. Peer-to-peer lending: The internet has opened the way to various types of residual income, including peer-to-peer lending. A number of platforms are available to facilitate personal unsecured loans between individuals at competitive rates of interest. Sell your stuff: In the broadest sense, residual income can be any side gig that adds to your income outside your regular job. eBay is good for cleaning out your closet and making money at the same time. Etsy is great for creative types who want to monetize a hobby. Residual Income vs. Passive Income The differences are subtle. Residual income may be passive income but passive income isn't necessarily residual. In personal finance, passive income may be derived from stock dividends or from renting a room on Airbnb. There was an initial outlay of money to buy the stocks or the house, but a tangential benefit that costs little in additional time or effort has been derived from the initial investment. It is residual income as well as passive income. Passive income is earned with little or no effort required after the initial investment. Residual income, for an individual, means the free cash available for spending after all obligations are met. Is Residual Income Taxable? Yes, almost all residual income is taxable. Maybe the income from some tax-exempt municipal bonds is not taxed. Otherwise, whether you got the tax from stock dividends or renting your spare bedroom, it's taxable income. Why Is Residual Income Important? Residual income is often passive income. Passive income is, by definition, relatively effortless. Stock dividends and bond premiums are examples. To quote legendary investor Warren Buffet: "If you don't find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die." How Do I Calculate My Residual Income? If you are applying for a loan, your residual income is the amount of money you have to spend after all of your monthly obligations have been paid. This is also called discretionary income. If you are planning your long-term future, residual income takes on a different meaning. It is the amount of money you generate (or plan to generate in the future) from passive sources such as dividends and interest. The Bottom Line Residual income is not free money. It requires an upfront investment of money, hard work, or sweat equity. But once that work is completed, a stream of income has been established that takes little or no effort to maintain. And when the AHA is reintroduced in parliament, as it inevitably will be, he can soft-pedal. Changes in the level of subsidies and feed-in tariffs can put a damper on activity. I push down on the pedal with my right leg and instead of propelling myself forward, I topple over sideways. I strain and push and pedal and wonder, When will this end? He'd pedal a few yards, then the handle bars would get away from him. The Stacks: A Dog Dies, a Boy Grows Up|Pete Dexter|June 21, 2014|DAILY BEAST That is one of the places that when the pianists come to, they get their foot hard on to the pedal and hold on to itHerr Gott! Music-Study in Germany|Amy Fay I had played that study to Tausig, and he found no fault with my use of the pedal; so I sat down thinking I could do it right. Music-Study in Germany|Amy Fay The pedal keys were almost invariably straight and the pedal boards flat. The Recent Revolution in Organ Building|George Laing Miller It frequently leads to a player upsetting his Pedal combination when he has no desire to do so. The Recent Revolution in Organ Building|George Laing Miller An airborne drill is sports betting casino floridaconducted by Tibet's airborne rescue team for emergency response to train for firefighting in southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, Nov. 12, 2022. (Xinhua) LHASA, Nov. 16 (Xinhua) -- Southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region has set up its first airborne rescue team for emergency response. The 20-member team, co-established by the administration of emergency management in the city of Nyingchi and the city's forest fire brigade, will mainly be responsible for rescue and relief work in case of natural disasters and accidents in Nyingchi, according to the brigade. Located in the southeast part of Tibet, Nyingchi has lush forests and complicated terrain, posing a great threat to firefighting work in case of forest fires. The equipment of two helicopters gives the team great mobility in emergency response and rescue work, said Pu Tongmeng, captain of the team. On Saturday, the team carried out an airborne drill to train for firefighting, delivery of rescuers, transfer of trapped personnel, and aerial patrol. An airborne drill is conducted by Tibet's airborne rescue team for emergency response to train for firefighting in southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, Nov. 12, 2022. (Xinhua) Ph.D., Psychology, Fielding Graduate University M.A., Psychology, Fielding Graduate University B.A., Film Studies, Cornell University Gender schema theory is a cognitive theory of gender development that says that gender is a product of the norms of ones culture. The theory was originated by psychologist Sandra Bem in 1981. It suggests that people process information, in part, based on gender-typed knowledge. Key Takeaways: Gender Schema Theory Gender schema theory proposes that children create cognitive schema of gender that they derive from the norms of their culture. The theory accounts for four gender categories, which can be measured with the Bem Sex Role Inventory: sex-typed, cross-sex typed, androgynous, and undifferentiated. Origins In her article introducing gender schema theory, Sandra Bem observed that the gender binary between male and female had become one of the basic organizational structures in human society. As a result, children are expected to learn about their cultures conceptions of gender and incorporate those conceptions into their self-concept. Bem noted that many psychological theories speak to this process, including psychoanalytic theory and social learning theory. However, these theories dont account for what is learned about gender and how its utilized when new information is encountered. It was this shortcoming that Bem sought to address with her theory. Bems approach to gender was also influenced by the cognitive revolution that took place in psychology in the 1960s and 1970s. Gender Schemas As children learn about gender-specific attributes, they form gender schemas. Children learn whatever gender schemas are available in their culture, including whatever divisions exist between the two sexes. These cognitive structures enable people to apply the subset of schemas that match their own sex to themselves, which influences their self-concept. In addition, their sense of adequacy may be based on their ability to live up to the appropriate gender schemas. Bem cautioned that gender schema theory was a theory of process. The theory does not account for the specific content of gender schemas, as they may differ between cultures. Instead, it focuses on the way people process and utilize the information their culture provides about masculinity and femininity. For example, a traditional culture may maintain strict divisions between men and women, such that women are expected to take care of the household and raise children while men work outside the home and support the family. Children raised in such a culture will develop gender schema in line with what they observe, and through their schema, will develop an understanding of what they can do as a boy or girl. Meanwhile, in a more progressive culture, the distinctions between men and women might be less obvious, such that children see both men and woman pursuing careers and dividing chores at home. Still, children will look for cues about the differences between men and women in these cultures. Perhaps theyll notice that people respect powerful men but are dismissive of women who strive for power. This will impact childrens gender schema and their understanding of the way their culture views appropriate roles for men and women. Gender Categories Bems theory suggests that people fall into one of four gender categories: Sex-typed individuals identify with the gender that corresponds to their physical sex. These individuals process and integrate information according to their schema for their gender. Cross-sex typed individuals process and integrate information according to their schema for the opposite gender. Androgynous individuals process and integrate information based on their schema for both genders. Undifferentiated individuals have difficulty processing information based on any gender schema. Bem Sex Role Inventory In 1974, Bem created an instrument to place people into the four gender categories called the Bem Sex Role Inventory. The scale presents 60 attributes, such as assertive or tender, that respondents rate based on how well each attribute describes them. Twenty of the attributes correspond to a cultures idea of masculinity, twenty correspond to the cultures idea of femininity, and the final twenty are neutral. Individuals are scored on masculinity and femininity on a continuum. If they score above the mid-point on the scale that conforms to their sex and below it on the scale that doesnt conform to their sex, they fall into the sex-typed gender category. The opposite is true for cross-sex typed individuals. Meanwhile, androgynous individuals score above the mid-point on both scales and undifferentiated individuals score below the mid-point on both scales. Gender Stereotypes Bem didnt directly address gender stereotypes or discrimination based on noncomformity to gender schema in her theory. However, she did question societys over-reliance on gender distinctions. Thus, research by other scholars on gender schema theory has investigated the ways gender stereotypes are communicated in society. For example, studies have explored the way childrens coloring books communicate gender stereotypes and how these stereotypes may influence childrens gender schema and cause them to conform to gender stereotypes. Gender schemas and the gender stereotypes incorporated into them enable people to understand the social difficulties they may encounter if they fail to conform to their cultures gender norms. For example, a man who cries at a wedding may be mocked for being less masculine, while a woman who does the same is thought to be exhibiting gender-appropriate behavior. Meanwhile, a woman who speaks forcefully during a company meeting may be seen as bossy or too emotional by her employees, but a man who does the same is considered authoritative and in control. Critiques Gender schema theory provides a useful framework for understanding how knowledge structures of gender are formed, however it has not avoided all criticism. One weakness of the theory is that it fails to account for the ways biology or social interactions impact gender development. In addition, the content of gender schema remains unclear. While the theory is meant to account for the processnot the contentof these schema, it's difficult to measure schema with no understanding of their content. Finally, cognitive schemas about gender have been shown to predict thinking, attention, and memory, but they are less predictive of behavior. Therefore, ones gender schema may not match the behavior one exhibits. Sources What Is Macroeconomics?mana cryptocurrency news Macroeconomics is a branch of economics that studies how an overall economythe markets, businesses, consumers, and governmentsbehave. Macroeconomics examines economy-wide phenomena such as inflation, price levels, rate of economic growth, national income, gross domestic product (GDP), and changes in unemployment. Some of the key questions addressed by macroeconomics include: What causes unemployment? What causes inflation? What creates or stimulates economic growth? Macroeconomics attempts to measure how well an economy is performing, understand what forces drive it, and project how performance can improve. Key Takeaways Macroeconomics is the branch of economics that deals with the structure, performance, behavior, and decision-making of the whole, or aggregate, economy. The two main areas of macroeconomic research are long-term economic growth and shorter-term business cycles. Macroeconomics in its modern form is often defined as starting with John Maynard Keynes and his theories about market behavior and governmental policies in the 1930s; several schools of thought have developed since. In contrast to macroeconomics, microeconomics is more focused on the influences on and choices made by individual actors in the economy (people, companies, industries, etc.). Macroeconomics Understanding Macroeconomics 1:45 As the term implies, macroeconomics is a field of study that analyzes an economy through a wide lens. This includes looking at variables like unemployment, GDP, and inflation. In addition, macroeconomists develop models explaining the relationships between these factors. These models, and the forecasts they produce, are used by government entities to aid in constructing and evaluating economic, monetary, and fiscal policy. Businesses use the models to set strategies in domestic and global markets, and investors use them to predict and plan for movements in various asset classes. Properly applied, economic theories can illuminate how economies function and the long-term consequences of particular policies and decisions. Macroeconomic theory can also help individual businesses and investors make better decisions through a more thorough understanding of the effects of broad economic trends and policies on their own industries. History of Macroeconomics While the term "macroeconomics" is not all that old (going back to the 1940s), many of macroeconomics's core concepts have been the study focus for much longer. Topics like unemployment, prices, growth, and trade have concerned economists since the beginning of the discipline in the 1700s. Elements of earlier work from Adam Smith and John Stuart Mill addressed issues that would now be recognized as the domain of macroeconomics. In its modern form, macroeconomics is often defined as starting with John Maynard Keynes and his book The General Theory of Employment, Interest, and Moneyin 1936. Keynes explained the fallout from the Great Depression when goods remained unsold, and workers were unemployed. Throughout the 20th century, Keynesian economics, as Keynes' theories became known, diverged into several other schools of thought. Before the popularization of Keynes' theories, economists did not generally differentiate between micro- and macroeconomics. The same microeconomic laws of supply and demand that operate in individual goods markets were understood to interact between individual markets to bring the economy into a general equilibrium, as described by Leon Walras. The link between goods markets and large-scale financial variables such as price levels and interest rates was explained through the unique role that money plays in the economy as a medium of exchange by economists such as Knut Wicksell, Irving Fisher, and Ludwig von Mises. Macroeconomics vs. Microeconomics Macroeconomics differs from microeconomics, which focuses on smaller factors that affect choices made by individuals and companies. Factors studied in both microeconomics and macroeconomics typically influence one another. A key distinction between micro- and macroeconomics is that macroeconomic aggregates can sometimes behave in very different ways or even the opposite of similar microeconomic variables. For example, Keynes referenced the so-called Paradox of Thrift, which argues that individuals save money to build wealth (micro). However, when everyone tries to increase their savings at once, it can contribute to a slowdown in the economy and lesswealth in the aggregate (macro). This is because there would be a reduction in spending, affecting business revenues and lowering worker pay. Meanwhile, microeconomics looks at economic tendencies, or what can happen when individuals make certain choices. Individuals are typically classified into subgroups, such as buyers, sellers, and business owners. These actors interact with each other according to the laws of supply and demand for resources, using money and interest rates as pricing mechanisms for coordination. Limits of Macroeconomics It is also important to understand the limitations of economic theory. Theories are often created in a vacuum and lack specific real-world details like taxation, regulation, and transaction costs. The real world is also decidedly complicated and includes matters of social preference and conscience that do not lend themselves to mathematical analysis. It is common in economics to find the phrase ceterus paribus, loosely translated as "all else being equal," in economic theories and discussions. This is because there are so many variables that economists use this phrase as an assumption to focus on the relationships between the variables being discussed. Even with the limits of economic theory, it is important and worthwhile to follow significant macroeconomic indicators like GDP, inflation, and unemployment. This is because the performance of companies, and by extension their stocks, is significantly influenced by the economic conditions in which the companies operate. Likewise, it can be invaluable to understand which theories are in favor and influencing a particular government administration. The underlying economic principles of a government will say much about how that government will approach taxation, regulation, government spending, and similar policies. By better understanding economics and the ramifications of economic decisions, investors can get at least a glimpse of the probable future and act accordingly with confidence. Macroeconomic Schools of Thought The field of macroeconomics is organized into many different schools of thought, with differing views on how the markets and their participants operate. Classical Classical economists held that prices, wages, and rates are flexible and markets tend to clear unless prevented from doing so by government policy, building on Adam Smith's original theories. The term classical economists is not actually a school of macroeconomic thought but a label applied first by Karl Marx and later by Keynes to denote previous economic thinkers with whom they respectively disagreed. Keynesian Keynesian economics was founded mainly based on the works of John Maynard Keynes and was the beginning of macroeconomics as a separate area of study from microeconomics. Keynesians focus on aggregate demand as the principal factor in issues like unemployment and the business cycle. Keynesian economists believe that the business cycle can be managed by active government intervention through fiscal policy, where governments spend more in recessions to stimulate demand or spend less in expansions to decrease it. They also believe in monetary policy, where a central bank stimulates lending with lower rates or restricts it with higher ones. Keynesian economists also believe that certain rigidities in the system, particularly sticky prices, prevent the proper clearing of supply and demand. Monetarist The Monetarist school is a branch of Keynesian economics credited mainly to the works of Milton Friedman. Working within and extending Keynesian models, Monetarists argue that monetary policy is generally a more effective and desirable policy tool to manage aggregate demand than fiscal policy. However, monetarists also acknowledge limits to monetary policy that make fine-tuning the economy ill-advised and instead tend to prefer adherence to policy rules that promote stable inflation rates. New Classical The New Classical school, along with the New Keynesians, is mainly built on integrating microeconomic foundations into macroeconomics to resolve the glaring theoretical contradictions between the two subjects. The New Classical school emphasizes the importance of microeconomics and models based on that behavior. New Classical economists assume that all agents try to maximize their utility and have rational expectations, which they incorporate into macroeconomic models. New Classical economists believe that unemployment is largely voluntary and that discretionary fiscal policy destabilizes, while inflation can be controlled with monetary policy. New Keynesian The New Keynesian school also attempts to add microeconomic foundations to traditional Keynesian economic theories. While New Keynesians accept that households and firms operate based on rational expectations, they still maintain that there are a variety of market failures, including sticky prices and wages. Because of this "stickiness," the government can improve macroeconomic conditions through fiscal and monetary policy. Austrian The Austrian School is an older school of economics that is seeing some resurgence in popularity. Austrian economic theories mainly apply to microeconomic phenomena. However, they, like the so-called classical economists, never strictly separated micro- and macroeconomics. Austrian theories also have important implications for what is otherwise considered macroeconomic subjects. In particular, the Austrian business cycle theory explains broadly synchronized (macroeconomic) swings in economic activity across markets due to monetary policy and the role that money and banking play in linking (microeconomic) markets to each other and across time. Macroeconomic Indicators Macroeconomics is a rather broad field, but two specific research areas represent this discipline. The first area is the factors that determine long-term economic growth, or increases in the national income. The other involves the causes and consequences of short-term fluctuations in national income and employment, also known as the business cycle. Economic Growth Economic growth refers to an increase in aggregate production in an economy. Macroeconomists try to understand the factors that either promote or retard economic growth to support economic policies that will support development, progress, and rising living standards. Economists can use many indicators to measure economic performance. These indicators fall into 10 categories: Gross Domestic Product indicators : Measure how much the economy produces : Measure how much the economy produces Consumer Spending indicators : Measure how much capital consumers feed back into the economy : Measure how much capital consumers feed back into the economy Income and Savings indicators : Measures how much consumers make and save : Measures how much consumers make and save Industry Performance indicators : Measures GDP by industry : Measures GDP by industry International Trade and Investment indicators : Indicates the balance of payments between trade partners, how much is traded, and how much is invested internationally : Indicates the balance of payments between trade partners, how much is traded, and how much is invested internationally Prices and Inflation indicators : Indicate fluctuations in prices paid for goods and services and changes in currency purchasing power : Indicate fluctuations in prices paid for goods and services and changes in currency purchasing power Investment in Fixed Assets indicators : Indicate how much capital is tied up in fixed assets : Indicate how much capital is tied up in fixed assets Employment indicators : Shows employment by industry, state, county, and other areas : Shows employment by industry, state, county, and other areas Government indicators : Shows how much the government spends and receives : Shows how much the government spends and receives Special indicators: All other economic indicators, such as distribution of personal income, global value chains, healthcare spending, small business well-being, and more The Business Cycle Superimposed over long-term macroeconomic growth trends, the levels and rates of change of significant macroeconomic variables such as employment and national output go through fluctuations. These fluctuations are called expansions, peaks, recessions, and troughsthey also occur in that order. When charted on a graph, these fluctuations show that businesses perform in cycles; thus, it is called the business cycle. The National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) measures the business cycle, which uses GDP and Gross National Income to date the cycle. The NBER is also the agency that declares the beginning and end of recessions and expansions. How to Influence Macroeconomics Because macroeconomics is such a broad area, positively influencing the economy is challenging and takes much longer than changing the individual behaviors within microeconomics. Therefore, economies need to have an entity dedicated to researching and identifying techniques that can influence large-scale changes. In the U.S., the Federal Reserve is the central bank with a mandate of promoting maximum employment and price stability. These two factors have been identified as essential to positively influencing change at the macroeconomic level. To influence change, the Fed implements monetary policy through tools it has developed over the years, which work to affect its dual mandates. It has the following tools it can use: Federal Funds Rate Range : A target range set by the Fed that guides interest rates on overnight lending between depository institutions to boost short-term borrowing : A target range set by the Fed that guides interest rates on overnight lending between depository institutions to boost short-term borrowing Open Market Operations : Purchase and sell securities on the open market to change the supply of reserves : Purchase and sell securities on the open market to change the supply of reserves Discount Window and Rate : Lending to depository institutions to help banks manage liquidity : Lending to depository institutions to help banks manage liquidity Reserve Requirements : Maintaining a reserve to help banks maintain liquidityreduced to 0% in 2020 : Maintaining a reserve to help banks maintain liquidityreduced to 0% in 2020 Interest on Reserve Balances : Encourages banks to hold reserves for liquidity and pays them interest for doing so : Encourages banks to hold reserves for liquidity and pays them interest for doing so Overnight Repurchase Agreement Facility : A supplementary tool used to help control the federal funds rate by selling securities and repurchasing them the next day at a more favorable rate : A supplementary tool used to help control the federal funds rate by selling securities and repurchasing them the next day at a more favorable rate Term Deposit Facility : Reserve deposits with a term, used to drain reserves from the banking system : Reserve deposits with a term, used to drain reserves from the banking system Central Bank Liquidity Swaps : Established swap lines for central banks from select countries to improve liquidity conditions in the U.S. and participating countries' central banks : Established swap lines for central banks from select countries to improve liquidity conditions in the U.S. and participating countries' central banks Foreign and International Monetary Authorities Repo Facility : A facility for institutions to enter repurchase agreements with the Fed to act as a backstop for liquidity : A facility for institutions to enter repurchase agreements with the Fed to act as a backstop for liquidity Standing Overnight Repurchase Agreement Facility: A facility to encourage or discourage borrowing above a set rate, which helps to control the effective federal funds rate. The Fed continuously updates the tools it uses to influence the economy, so it has a list of 14 other previously used tools it can implement again if needed. What Is Macroeconomics in Economics? Macroeconomics is the field of study of the way a overall economy behaves. What are the 3 Major Concerns of Macroeconomics? Three major macroeconomic concerns are the unemployment level, inflation, and economic growth. Why Is Macroeconics Important? Macroeconomics helps a government evaluate how an economy is performing and decide on actions it can take to increase or slow growth. The Bottom Line Macroeconomics is a field of study used to evaluate performance and develop actions that can positively affect an economy. Economists work to understand how specific factors and actions affect output, input, spending, consumption, inflation, and employment. The study of economics began long ago, but the field didn't start evolving into its current form until the 1700s. Macroeconomics now plays a large part in government and business decision-making. ddc promo codes codeshareshows grade level based on the word's complexity. daube [ dohb ]/ dob / New Word List Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.[ dohb ]/ dob /Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. nouna stew of braised meat, vegetables, herbs, and seasonings.the pot or casserole in which such a stew is cooked. Words nearby daube How to use daube from French QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Question daube171525; What is top 10 roulette sitesMLA Style? MLA Style is a set of conventions and standards for writing put forth by the Modern Language Association. These standards allow for ease of communication between authors and readers, similar to the way physicists or mathematicians use symbols to communicate information. MLA Style has standards concerning, Format and page layout (margins, headings, page numbers, etc.) Stylistic considerations (spelling, abbreviations, punctuation, footnotes, etc.) Citing Sources Preparing a finished product for publication Why Should I Use MLA Style? As I said above, MLA Style is a set of conventions that, when adhered to, allow for the ease of communication. Using a specific style type allows readers to navigate their way through your work and presents all relevant information in a uniform way. Can you imagine if every researcher in a given discipline used a different method of source citation? Think of all the wasted time the reader would spend just trying to understand the organization of the paper, let alone the argument being put forth. The MLA Style allows for a consistent, uniform presentation of a papers findings so that the maximum amount of time can be spent on the content, not the formatting. Who Uses MLA Style? MLA Style is widely used throughout the humanities such as, English studies Comparative literature Linguistics Cultural Studies Formatting All major styles have formatting requirements for how the text should appear on your page. This allows for ease of reading and a consistent experience across papers. Margins Margins should be one inch from the top, bottom, left, and right of the paper. (1 inch = 2.5cm) Page numbers should be set at one-half inch (1.25 cm) from the upper right hand corner and flush with the right margin. Except for names and pages numbers, the margins on an MLA Style paper should be one inch at the top and bottom and on both sides of the text. The first word of every paragraph should be indented one-half inch from the left margin. This can be accomplished in Microsoft Word and other word processors by hitting the tab key. Text Formatting Font: Usually Times New Roman (Check with instructor) Size: Usually 12 point (Check with instructor) Do not justify the text Double-space the entire research paper research paper Leave one space after a period (unless instructor prefers two) When writing a paper in MLA Style or any other style, you should always choose a font that is easy to read. You also want to pick a typeface that has a clear contrast between its regular and italic style. Most teachers will specify a font they prefer and require you to use that, but if they do not, you can never go wrong using Times New Roman. Next you will want to pick a standard size to use, usually a 12-point font. Again, if your academic department or teacher has its own standard, use that. Your paper should be double-spaced throughout its entirety, including quotations, notes, and onto your works cited page. Finally, leave one space after each period or other concluding punctuation mark unless your teacher prefers otherwise. Heading and Title Begin your paper one inch from the top of the page. Then type: Your name Instructor name Class Date Specific instructors will differ on the need for a title page on an MLA research paper, but MLA Style does not require one. There are, however, specific guidelines for how your first page should look. As seen below, the paper should begin with your name one inch from the top and flush with the left margin. Press the return key then type your instructors name, the class, and the date, all on separate lines and double-spaced. After that, add a double space between the date and the title of the paper, which should be centered. Your title should not be underlined, in quotations, bolded, or in all capitals. Only primary words should be capitalized, and you should only italicize words that would appear in italics in your text. For example, My Opinion on Huckleberry Finn Attitudes Toward Race Relations in To Kill A Mockingbird Do not use a period after your title or after any of the headings in your paper. Finally, add a double space between your title and the first line of text in your paper. As with all paragraphs throughout MLA Style, the first word starting each one should be indented one-half inch. On all other pages, the running head of your paper should appear as seen below. Page Numbers Place page number on all pages (possible exception on page one, refer to instructor) Page numbers should have a one-half inch margin from the upper right hand corner and be flush with the right margin. Last name should appear before page number followed by a space. Each page on your paper should have an ordered page number in the top right hand corner, one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin. Also, type your last name before the page number. Page numbers should appear on every page within a paper, but some teachers prefer not to have them on the first page. Follow their guidelines in such cases. Tables and Illustrations Tables and other illustrations appear as close to parts relevant text as possible. A table is labeled Table and given a number and titled. All other visuals should be labeled Figure. If you include and tables, graphs, or figures in your paper, be sure to include them as close to the relevant text as possible. A table should be labeled Table along with a numeral, e.g., Table 1. Any other visual materials, graphs, charts, pictures, etc., should be labeled Figure. In both cases, give the table/figure a title, capitalizing as you would a heading, and include any relevant sources or noted directly below. If your visual materials do require a note, mark them with a lowercase letter a. to distinguish from the body of your paper (see below image). Citations and Works Cited Page Properly documenting your sources is extremely important. Not only does it avoid accidental plagiarism, but it also allows the reader to see whom you are referencing. In MLA Style, you site your sources with parenthetical citation in your text that reference an alphabetical list that follows your research paper called a works cited page. These parenthetical citations are called in-text citations and there are a few ways you can do them. Author Not Mentioned in Text (Name Page) This idea is nothing new and has been talked about for years (Smith 87). Author Mentioned in Text (Page) This idea is nothing new and has been talked about by various authors such as John Smith for years (87). Author with Same Last Name as Others in Work Cited (Initial Name Page) This idea is nothing new and has been talked about for years (J. Smith 87). More than One Work by Author (Name Short Title Page) This idea is nothing new and has been talked about for years (Smith, Book Title87). Two or More Authors (Name and Name Page) This idea is nothing new and has been talked about for years (Smith and Stephenson 87). Two Locations in Same Work (Name Page, Page) This idea is nothing new and has been talked about for years (Smith 87, 105). Two Different Sources (Name Page; Name Page) This idea is nothing new and has been talked about for years (Smith 87; Stephenson 105). Online Source with Numbered Paragraphs (Name, Pars. Number) This idea is nothing new and has been talked about for years (Smith, pars. 7-8). Footnotes MLA Style does not make use of footnotes to identify citations, unless a given citation is so long that it would disrupt the flow of reading. In such rare occasions, footnotes are permitted and should follow the Name Page; Name Page format. Works Cited Page The works cited page should be the last page of your paper. All of the referenced material from within your paper should appear in an alphabetized list on this page. Here are the basic guidelines, Entries are in alphabetical order by the authors last name, or, for any sources without authors, by title. Entries should be double-spaced and be followed by a period. Capitalize the first word and all primary words of titles and subtitles. (You should not capitalize articles, prepositions, coordinating conjunctions, or the to in infinitives.) When there are multiple publishers listed, include all of them with a forward slash (/) between them. When listing multiple authors of the same work, use and, not the ampersand (&). Works Cited Page Formatting As with the rest of your paper, your name and page number should appear in the top right corner set off by 1/2 inch. Your works cited page should be double-spaced, and each entry should have a one inch margin. For those entries longer than a single line, indent the second line and beyond 1/2 inch. MLA Citation Guidelines MLA Style has recently undergone a change in its citation guidelines. Instead of differentiating various mediums, books, magazines, journals, websites, blogs, etc., they now have a standard set of criteria that you use for all citations. They call these criteria the core elements. MLA Core Elements As the name suggests, these are the core elements of any entry on the wok cited pages, no matter the medium or publishing platform. They are to be included in each citation as follows, Author. Title of source. Title of container, Other contributors, Version, Number, Publisher, Publication date, Location. Each element is followed by the punctuation that is shown, unless it happens to be the final element in the citation. In that case, a period follows it. As I mentioned above, an individual entry should always end with a period. Also, if any individual element in the core elements is not relevant to your entry, omit it. For example, if the piece you are citing only has one author, you would omit the other contributors section. Now, lets briefly go over each core element. Author The first core element is the authors name. This element is self-explanatory and is usually prominently displayed on the publication. In your work cited entry, the last name of the author should appear first, followed by a comma and the rest of the authors name. End the author element with a period, unless the authors name also ends in a period. For example, Twain, Mark. The Autobiography of Mark Twain, Volume 1. U of California P, 2010. -but- Baron, Naomi S. Redefining Reading: The Impact of Digital Communication Media. PMLA, vol 128, no. 1, Jan. 2013, pp. 193-200. Notice that both entries have just one period following the authors name. More Than One Author If a work has two authors, reverse the first name as I mentioned above but write the second authors name normally. Dorris, Michael, and Louise Erdrich. The Crown of Columbus. HarperCollins Publishers, 1999. As you can see, the first authors name is reversed and the second authors name is written normally. These names should appear as the appear on the work itself. You do not automatically alphabetize the authors names. Three or More Authors If a work has three or more authors, reverse the first name and follow it with a comma andet al. This is Latin for and others. Burdick, Anne, et al. Digital_Humanities. MIT P, 2012. If you are dealing with a work that has been compiled and edited by an editor, he or she is still considered the author of the work for these purposes, but the label editor must be places after his or her name. Holland, Merlin, and Rupert Hart-Davis, editors. The Complete Letters of Oscar Wilde. Henry Holt, 2000. Corporate Authors Authors need not be individuals, either. If a corporation releases a public statement, the company itself can be listed as the author if no individuals name is listed. Author Name is Missing Completely If the authors name is missing entirely, simply omit this section of the core elements and begin with the works title. If you could not find the authors name for a book, this, Twain, Mark. The Autobiography of Mark Twain, Volume 1. U of California P, 2010. -would turn into this- The Autobiography of Mark Twain, Volume 1. U of California P, 2010. Title of Source The next core element is title of source. This is differentiated from title of container, but we will get to that in the next section. The title of source is the title of the authors work that you are citing. Book Example: For example, Lee, Harper. To Kill a Mockingbird. Grand Central Publishing, 1960. In this citation, To Kill a Mockingbird is the title of source. If the work you are citing has a subtitle, include the subtitle in the entry. Also, if the work you are citing is self-contained and independent, you will italicize the name of the work (underlining is acceptable if italics are unavailable). If, however, you are citing the title of an individual essay, story, or poem that is a part of a larger whole or collection, this is placed in quotation marks. Essay Within a Collection Example: For example, Dewar, James A., and Peng Hwa Ang. The Cultural Consequences of Printing and the Internet. Agent of Change: Print Culture Studies after Elizabeth L. Eisenstein, edited by Sabrina Alcorn Baron et al., U of Massachusetts P / Center for the Book, Library of congress, 2007, pp. 365-77. In this example, The Cultural Consequences of Printing and the Internet is the name is the specific work within a larger collection that we are citing. For that reason, we place it inside quotation marks. Collection of Essays Example: If we were to cite the entire collection, we would remove this specific title. Dewar, James A., and Peng Hwa Ang. Agent of Change: Print Culture Studies after Elizabeth L. Eisenstein, edited by Sabrina Alcorn Baron et al., U of Massachusetts P / Center for the Book, Library of Congress, 2007, pp. 365-77. Agent of Change: Print Culture Studies after Elizabeth L. Eisensteinis a standalone book, so we italicize it. The title of a periodical (journal, magazine, newspaper) is set in italics, and the title of an article in the periodical goes in quotation marks. This same rule applies across media forms. Television Program: So, the title of a television series will appear in italics. The title of an individual episode with be in quotation marks. Website: The name of the website will appear in italics. An individual page or article will appear in quotation marks. Song or Piece of Music: The title of an album will appear in italics. An individual song on an album will be in quotation marks. You get the idea. The difference I am outlining here is the difference between the title of source and the title of container. Title of Container The title of container is the larger whole that an individual work lives within. A container might be a book that is a collections of essays. In such a case, the book is the container and any individual essay is title of source. If you want to cite a New York Times article, the article is the source and the newspaper itself is the container. When you citing something within a container, italicize the container and put the source in quotation marks. Example: Williams, Joy. Rogue Territory. The New York Times Book Review, 9 Nov. 2014, pp. 1+. In this example, we are citing an individual article within a magazine, so we put the title of the article in quotations, Rogue Territory, and we put the name of the magazine in italics, The New York Times Book Review. Multiple Containers To make things even more complicated, sometimes a source can be housed within multiple containers. For example, if you are citing an article that appeared in a scholarly journal that is now archived on JSTOR, the journal is the first container and JSTOR is the second container. Goldman, Anne. Questions of Transport: Reading Primo Levi Reading Dante. The Georgia Review, vol 64, no. 1, 2010, pp. 69-88. JSTOR, www.jstor.org/stable/41403188. Other Contributors If there are other contributors whose participation in a work is important to your research, name these contributors in the other contributors section. These may be editors, illustrators, narrators, translators, etc. Some of the common descriptions are, adapted by directed by edited by illustrated by introduction by narrated by performance by translated by Other Contributors Example: Chartier, Roger. The Order of Books: Readers, Authors, and Libraries in Europe between the Fourteenth and Eighteenth Centuries. Translated by Lydia G. Cochrane, Stanford UP, 1994. Version If your source is listed as a version of a work that is released in more than one form, list this in your entry. Example: The Bible. Authorized King James Version, Oxford UP, 1998. Number If your source is part of a numbered series, such as a multi-volume book or journal with volume and number issues, include this information in your citation. Example: Wellek, Rene. A History of Modern Criticism, 1750-1950. Vol. 5, Yale UP, 1986. Publisher The publisher of a work is usually easy to find. If two are more organizations participated equally in the publication of a work, list both of them with a / between them. Example: Dewar, James A., and Peng Hwa Ang. Agent of Change: Print Culture Studies after Elizabeth L. Eisenstein, edited by Sabrina Alcorn Baron et al., U of Massachusetts P / Center for the Book, Library of Congress, 2007, pp. 365-77. Some websites list their publishing information, as they are part of various organizations, museums, libraries, etc. Such information is commonly found in the copyright notice at the bottom of a home page. If you find such information, list it. If this information is not included on the website, you can omit it. The MLA Handbooklists a number of publications where the publishers name may be omitted, either because the publisher need not be given or because there is no publisher. A periodical (journal, magazine, newspaper). A work published by its author or editor. A website whose title is essentially the same as the name of its publisher. A website not involved in producing the works it makes available (example, WordPress.com YouTube, etc.) Publication Date In most cases, the publication date is easy enough to find, but with some online materials, a single work might be associated with a number of different dates. For example, a documentary might air on network TV one day and be added to Netflix at a later date. In such instances, use the date that is most relevant to your research, i.e., the date that is listed on the source that you consulted. Here is a citation of an online news article, Deresiewicz, William. The Death of the Artistand the Birth of the Creative Entrepreneur. The Atlantic, 28 Dec. 2014. www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2015/01/the-death-of-the-artist- and-the-birth-of-the-creative-entrepreneur/383497/. This differs from someone who referenced the print magazine, Deresiewicz, William. The Death of the Artistand the Birth of the Creative Entrepreneur. The Atlantic,Jan.-Feb. 2015, pp. 92-97. Location The final core element is the a works location. The location will depend on how you accessed the work. For print sources, you specify a page number or a range of page numbers, Deresiewicz, William. The Death of the Artistand the Birth of the Creative Entrepreneur. The Atlantic,Jan.-Feb. 2015, pp. 92-97. For online works, you will usually list a URL, Deresiewicz, William. The Death of the Artistand the Birth of the Creative Entrepreneur. The Atlantic, 28 Dec. 2014. www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2015/01/the-death-of-the-artist- and-the-birth-of-the-creative-entrepreneur/383497/. The MLA Handbookrecommends including URLs for the reference of online materials, although it does list a few possible disadvantages in doing so. It leaves the final call up to the instructor, who may or may not require URLs to be listed. If your instructor does not mention one way or the other, its best to default to the inclusion of URLs. Eighth Edition Update The eighth edition MLA Handbookis a much needed update to MLA Style. It still isnt as clear as it could be, but it eliminates the need to check individual citation requirements for the literally dozens of different entries that are possible. Instead, it lists a set of broad criteria that applies to any and all publication types. You will not need every core element in every citation you have, but they provide you with a roadmap to creating citations with ease. Again, the nine core elements are as follows, Author. Title of source. Title of container, Other contributors, Version, Number, Publisher, Publication date, Location. Additional Information For more information on MLA Style, I advise getting either of the following books, MLA Handbook, 8th Edition. -or- A Writers Reference, 8th Editionby Diana Hacker. References Many of the specific citation examples were taken from the MLA Handbook, 8th Edition, 2016. download apk nday11 skybet websiteshows grade level based on the word's complexity. damsel bug New Word List Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. nounany of various small predaceous bugs of the family Nabidae. Words nearby damsel bug How to use damsel bug damsel bug nounany of various bugs of the carnivorous family Nabiidae, related to the bedbugs but feeding on other insects. The larvae of some species mimic and associate with ants Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Questiondamp off, dampproof, damp squib, Damrosch, damsel, damsel bug, damselfish, damselfly, damsel in distress, damson, damson cheeseDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 Dacia [ dey-shee-uh,how to get coinbase wallet address -shuh ]/ de i , - / New Word List Save This Word! [ dey-shee-uh,-shuh ]/ de i , - /Save This Word! nounan ancient kingdom and later a Roman province in S Europe between the Carpathian Mountains and the Danube, corresponding generally to modern Romania and adjacent regions. Words nearby Dacia How to use Dacia Dacia/ (des) / nounan ancient region bounded by the Carpathians, the Tisza, and the Danube, roughly corresponding to modern Romania. United under kings from about 60 bc, it later contained the Roman province of the same name (about 105 to 270 ad) Derived forms of Dacia Dacian, adjective, noun Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Questiondace, dacha, Dachau, Dache, dachshund, Dacia, dacite, dack, dacker, Dacko, dacksDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 What Is the Short Interest Ratio?free 7 card stud app link judi qq The short Interest ratio takes the number of shares held short in a stock and it divides this by the stock's average daily trading volume. Simply put, the ratio can help an investor find out very quickly if a stock is heavily shorted or not shorted versus its average daily trading volume. The term is sometimes used interchangeably with days to cover. Key Takeaways The short interest ratio is a quick way to see how heavily shorted a stock may be versus its trading volume. The short interest ratio indicates how many days it would take for all the shares short to be covered or repurchased in the open market. The short interest ratio and short interest are not the sameshort interest measures the total number of shares that have been sold short in the market. News or events may impact trading volumes and make the ratio expand or contract, so it should always be compared with the actual short interest and trading volumes. The Formula for Short Interest Ratio Is: Short Interest Ratio = S I A D T V where: S I = Short Interest A D T V = Average Daily Trading Volume \begin{ aligned}&\textbf{ Short Interest Ratio}=\frac{ SI}{ ADTV}\\&\textbf{ where:}\\&SI= \text{ Short Interest}\\&ADTV = \text{ Average Daily Trading Volume}\\\end{ aligned} Short Interest Ratio=ADTVSIwhere:SI=Short InterestADTV=Average Daily Trading Volume What the Short Interest Ratio Can Tell You The ratio tells an investor if the number of shares short is high or low versus the stock's average trading volume. The ratio can rise or fall based on the number of shares short. However, it can also increase or decrease as volume levels change. Example of How to Use the Short Interest Ratio The Tesla chart below shows the short interest ratio, the number of shares short, and the daily average trading volume. In the example, one can see that a rising short interest ratio does not always correspond to rising short interest. In July and August 2016, the short interest ratio rose despite the number of shares short falling. That was because the daily average volume fell sharply during that time. Additionally, the short interest was steadily declining in 2018 despite short interest being elevated because the average daily volume was steadily rising on the stock. Image by Sabrina Jiang Investopedia 2021 The Difference Between a Short Interest Ratio and Short Interest It is essential to remember that the short interest ratio and short interest are not the same. Short interest measures the total number of shares that have been sold short in the market. The short interest ratio is a formula used to measure how many days it would take for all the shares short in the marketplace to be covered. Limitations of Using the Short Interest Ratio The short interest ratio has several flaws, the first being that it is not updated regularly. Short interest is reported every two weeks and is usually as of the 15th and the last day of the month. It takes several days before the information is published and by that time, the number of shares short in the market may have already changed. Additionally, one must consider how news or events may impact trading volumes and make the ratio expand or contract. The ratio should always be compared with the actual short interest and trading volumes to get the full picture. free slot games that pay real moneyshows grade level based on the word's complexity. blesbuck [ bles-buhk ]/ blsbk / New Word List Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.[ bles-buhk ]/ blsbk /Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. noun, plural blesbucks, (especially collectively) blesbuck.blesbok. Words nearby blesbuck How to use in a sentence About twenty blesbuck turned and came straight past John, at a distance of forty yards. Jess|H. Rider Haggard QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Questionblepharoplasty, blepharospasm, Bleriot, blert, blesbok, blesbuck, bless, blessed, blessed event, Blessed Sacrament, Blessed VirginDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 What Is Short Interest?sporting life horse racing tips Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short and remain outstanding. Traders typically sell a security short if they anticipate that price will decline by borrowing shares of stock. The investor then sells these borrowed shares to buyers willing to pay the market price. Short interest is often an indicator of current market sentiment. An increase in short interest often signals that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest signals they have become more bullish. Short interest is often expressed as a number or percentage. FINRA requires firms to report short interest positions in all customer and proprietary accounts in all equity securities twice a month. Key Takeaways Short interest indicates how many shares of a company are currently sold short and not yet covered. Short interest is often expressed as a number yet is more telling as a percentage. An increase in short interest often signals that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest shows they have become more bullish. What Does Short Interest Signal? Short interest can provide insight into the potential direction of an individual stock, as well as how bullish or bearish investors are about the market overall. Stock exchanges measure and report on short interest and issue reports each month, providing investors a tool to use as a short-selling benchmark. A large increase or decrease in a stock's short interest from the previous month can indicate investor sentiment. If the short interest for a stock rises from 10% to 20%, it may be a warning sign that negative sentiment is growing toward the company as the number of investors who expect the stock price to decrease has doubled. Short interest can also be converted into a ratio, also known as days to cover, by taking the number of short shares and dividing it by the average daily trading volume. The short Interest ratio indicates how many days it would take for all of a stock's shares that are sold short to be covered or repurchased in the market. If short interest is one million shares, and its average daily trading volume is 100,000 shares, it will take at least 10 days on average for the shorts to be able to cover their positions. Short Interest Ratio = Short Interest/Average Daily Trading Volume This ratio indicates how many days it would take for all of a stock's shares that are sold short to be covered or repurchased in the market. How to Use Short Interest If a stock has a rising level of short interest, it doesn't mean that the stock will fall in price, but only that a high number of investors are betting that the stock will fall in price. An investor can calculate short interest or short float for a stock by dividing the number of shares sold short by the float, the total number of shares available for the public to buy. Short Float Percentage = Number of Shares Sold Short/Number of Shares in Float This percentage indicates the percentage of shares available to the public that is borrowed. If a company has 10 million shares of stock outstanding and 1 million shares are sold short, the total short interest is 10%. Short Interest can be used as an indicator of market sentiment for a company's stock or the market as a whole and some bullish investors see high short interest as an opportunity. There are some limitations to using short interest as a marker. Short interest reports, such as those provided monthly by the NYSE, are not timely and may not reflect market conditions. Also, stock can be heavily shorted for a long period without seeing a short squeeze or a price decline. What Are the Limitations of Using Short Interest? Short interest is a useful tool but should not be the sole determinant of an investment decision. Changes in short interest, and even extremes, may not lead to significant price changes in a timely fashion. A stock can stay at an extreme reading for long periods or a major price decline. Short interest is published only monthly by most exchanges so traders are using slightly outdated information and the actual short interest may already be significantly different than what the report indicates. What Is a Short Squeeze? A short squeeze occurs when a high number of short sellers attempt to cut their losses and exit their short positions by purchasing their borrowed shares due to panic about potential losses and often occurs if a stock price rises. How Does Short Interest Compare to a Put/Call Ratio? Short interest and the put/call ratio are both indicators of market sentiment. Short interest focuses on the number of short shares outstanding. The put/call ratio uses the options market for its data. Put options are bearish bets, while calls are bullish bets. Changes in the put/call ratio are another gauge that can be used to determine whether investors are expecting prices to rise or fall in the future. What Is the Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA)?indian bet 365 point spread in nba The Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA) is a piece of legislation that imposes a payroll tax on any business with employees. The revenue it generates is allocated to state unemployment insurance agencies and used to fund unemployment benefits for people who are out of work. Key Takeaways The Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA) is legislation that imposes a payroll tax on any business with employees; the revenue raised is used to fund unemployment benefits. As of 2021, the FUTA tax rate is 6% of the first $7,000 paid to each employee annually. Though FUTA payroll tax is based on employees' wages, it is imposed on employers only, not their employees. FUTA and SUTA are similar taxes just imposed on different levels of government, while FUTA and FICA fund entirely different programs by charging different individuals. Employers who also pay their state unemployment insurance can receive a federal tax credit of up to 5.4%, resulting in an effective FUTA tax rate of 0.6%. Understanding the Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA) FUTA is a federal law that raises revenue to administer unemployment insurance and job service programs in every state. As directed by the Act, employers are required to pay annual or quarterly federal unemployment taxes; they make up a part of what is commonly known as payroll taxes. The funds in the account are used for unemployment compensation payments to workers who have lost their jobs. Although the amount of the FUTA payroll tax is based on employees' wages, it is imposed on employers only, not their employees. In other words, it is not deducted from a worker's wages. In this way, FUTA differs from other payroll taxes such as Social Security tax, which applies to both employers and employees. The Federal Unemployment Tax Act requires employers to file IRS Form 940 annually to report the paying of their FUTA taxes. IRS Form 940 generally must be filed in the first quarter of the year. Who Needs to Pay FUTA The reporting requirements for FUTA vary on the underlying entity that is remitting the taxes to the IRS. FUTA taxes can be paid annually or quarterly, and the amount of an employer's FUTA tax liability determines when the tax must be paid. Here are the different reporting requirements for various types of entities or employers. FUTA Reporting Requirements - Businesses According to the IRS, a bueinss owes FUTA if it meets one of two requirements. There are two broad measurements to determine whether a business must collect and remit FUTA, and a company only needs to satisfy one of the two following conditions in order to be required to remit FUTA: It paid at least $1,500 in wages during any calendar quarter in the current or previous year. (A calendar quarter is January through March, April through June, July through September, or October through December.) It had at least one full-time, part-time, or temporary employee for at least some part of a day in any 20 or more different weeks in the current or previous year. FUTA Reporting Requirements - Household Employers There is a different set of reporting requirements for household employers, those who hire a nanny, babysitter, maid, housekeeper, or other people to provide services within one's private home. Household employees must pay FUTA tax on wages if the following two conditions are met: Cash wages of $1,000 or more were paid to a household employee in any quarter during the year. The household employee performs household work in a private home, local college club, or local chapter of a college fraternity. Household employers can opt to file and report FUTA taxes using Schedule H via Form 1040 instead of Form 940. FUTA Reporting Requirements - Agricultural Employers Yet another varying set of requirements exist for agricultural or farming employers. If the employer meets either of the conditions below, they are subject to FUTA tax collection and reporting: Cash wages of $20,000 or more were paid to farmworkers during any calendar quarter during the year. 10 or more farmworkers were employed during some part of the day during any 20 or more varying weeks within a calendar year. FUTA Reporting Requirements - Other Employers Indian tribal governments are exempt from FUTA tax. However, the tribe must have participated in the state unemployment system for the entire year and be compliant with prevailing unemployment laws. Religious, educational, scientific, charitable, or other tax-exempt organizations are also exempt from FUTA. Last, services performed by state or local government parties are also exempt. If you're filing your last Form 940 because your business has closed or you have stopped paying wages, you can select Box D in the top right corner of the form to notify the IRS. How to Calculate FUTA Tax Liability A company's FUTA tax liability is fairly straightforward to calculate. A company is subject to FUTA taxes on the first $7,000 of payments made to an employee excluding exempt payments. The FUTA tax rate for 2021 was 6.0%, and employers often receive a credit of up to 5.4% against this tax. For example, imagine Employee A was paid $10,000 of wages subject to FUTA taxes in Q1 and Employee B was paid $5,000 of wages subject to FUTA taxes in Q1. Regarding Employee A, only the first $7,000 of wages per quarter are subject to the tax. Therefore, the tax liability is: FUTA Liability = (Employee A's Eligible Wages + Employee B's Eligible Wages) * 6% FUTA Liability = ($7,000 + $5,000) * $6% The company's FUTA tax liability would be $720. Note that the company may be eligible for a tax credit of $648 ($12,000 * 5.4%); if this is the case, the company would only owe $72. How to Pay and Report FUTA There's two components to FUTA: depositing FUTA taxes and filing the appropriate tax form. Companies that owe $500 or more of FUTA in a calendar year must remit FUTA taxes to the IRS at least quarterly. The IRS permits any single quarterly tax liability less than $500 to be rolled to the next period. Generally speaking, FUTA must usually be deposited at the end of the month subsequent to quarter-end. For example, with the first quarter ending March 31, FUTA taxes in Q1 are due for deposit by April 30. In addition, the IRS requires all federal tax deposits be made via EFT. The tax form is often due in full early in the calendar year. The due date for filing Form 940 in 2021 was Jan. 31, 2022. Taxpayers who have already deposited their FUTA taxes to the IRS had until Feb. 10, 2022 to file. The IRS considers Form 940 filed on time should tbe form be properly addressed and postmarked prior to the due date. FUTA can be reported via Form 940 electronically using the IRS' electronic filing platform. Taxpayers wanting to mail in a paper form will have varying mailing addresses based on the state they are in. If the due date for filing falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, IRS guidelines mandate that the return is subsequently due the next business day. FUTA vs. SUTA Many states collect an additional unemployment tax from employers, known as state unemployment taxes (SUTA). These range from 2% to 5% of an employee's wages. Paying SUTA taxes can lessen the burden of FUTA taxes. Employers can take a tax credit of up to 5.4% of taxable income if they pay state unemployment taxes in full and on time. This amount is deducted from the amount of employee federal unemployment taxes owed. An employer that qualifies for the highest credit will have a net tax rate of 0.6% (calculated as 6% minus 5.4%). Thus, the minimum amount an employer can pay in FUTA tax is $42 per employee. However, companies that are exempt from state unemployment taxes do not qualify for the FUTA credit. FUTA vs. FICA While FUTA is used to fund unemployment benefits, Federal Insurance Contribution Act (FICA) taxes are different in several ways. First, FICA is paid for by both the employer and employee. The tax is split evenly between the two, though self-employed individuals must often report both portions. Second, FICA is intended to fund different government programs. FICA is used to provide Social Security and Medicare benefits. It is automatically deducted from employee paychecks, and federal law dictates that it is furnished by workers and their employers. Special Considerations Wages that an employer pays to their spouse, a child under the age of 21, or parents do not count as FUTA wages. Furthermore, payments such as fringe benefits, group term life insurance benefits, and employer contributions to employee retirement accounts are not included in the tax calculation for the federal unemployment tax. Form 940 can be amended for a previous year. When the prior year information needs to be updated, the IRS requests using the subsequent year to reflect the change. For example, an amendment to the 2020 Form 940 would be done using the 2021 filing. There are various authorized personnel allowed to sign Form 940 and remit the reporting of FUTA taxes. In general, a business-owner, president, vice president, principal officer, fiduciary overseeing an estate, authorized partner, or officer knowing the affairs of a company may be allowed to sign the form. What Is FUTA? FUTA is a payroll tax imposed on employers to fund unemployment programs in the United States. A company is usually responsible for a tax of 6% on every employee's wages up to $7,000 per quarter. A company may often be eligible to receive a credit of up to 5.4%. What Is the Difference Between FUTA and SUTA? FUTA and SUTA are essentially the same type of payroll tax used to fund government unemployment programs. However, FUTA is assessed at the federal level, while SUTA is assessed at the state level. What Is the Difference Between FUTA and FICA? FUTA is a payroll tax implemented on just an employer to help fund federal unemployment programs. FICA is a payroll tax implemented on both the employer and employee that provides funding for Medicare and Social Security. Who Is Subject to FUTA? Most businesses are subject to FUTA if they have employees. If a company paid wages of more than $1,500 to employees in any calendar quarter during the year, they are subject to FUTA. In addition, if one or more employees worked part of a day in 20 or more different weeks during the year, the company they work for is subject to FUTA. Is FUTA Paid By the Employer? Yes, FUTA is paid for by the employer. Unlike other payroll taxes, FUTA is not deducted from an employee's paycheck, and all tax liability for FUTA resides with the employer. MORE ABOUT A BIRD IN THE HAND IS WORTH TWO IN THE BUSH What doesa bird in the hand is worth two in the bush mean? A bird in the hand is worth two in the bushis a proverb that means the things we currently have are worth a lot more than the things we have a chance of getting. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bushis often used as advice or a warning for a person who is making risky decisions or is about to risk a lot over an unknown outcome. The proverb says that the things you already own are far more valuable to you than things you hope to get because you may never actually get them. Example: I told Mia that she should walk away with her big winnings rather than go double or nothing. After all, a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush! Where does a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush come from? The first records of a bird in the hand is worth two in the bushcome from around 1689. Its a variation on an older English proverb,better one bird in the hand than ten in the wood. The proverb compares birds in two different situations. A bird in the hand could refer to either a dead bird you intend to eat or a trained bird (such as a falcon or eagle) that can help you with whatever you need it to do. Two in the bush refers to wild birds that are perched in the branches of a bush. The wild birds dont belong to you and will very likely fly away and escape if you try to get them. Even though the bush has more birds, those birds are worth nothing if you never actually get them. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bushis used to metaphorically compare a safe or stable situation with a riskier one. Did you know ? What are some words that share a root or word element witha bird in the hand is worth two in the bush? bird hand worth two bush What are some words that often get used in discussinga bird in the hand is worth two in the bush? risk gamble safe value pie in the sky How is a bird in the hand is worth two in the bushused in real life? A bird in the hand is worth two in the bushis a very well-known proverb that means the things you already have are more valuable than things you might get. It is so famous that people often make their own variations of it or joke about its meaning. Try using a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush! True or False? A bird in the hand is worth two in the bushmeans that taking risky bets is a part of life. What Is Hyperledger?victor chandler app Hyperledger is a global enterprise blockchain project that offers the necessary framework, standards, guidelines, and tools to build open-source blockchains and related applications for use across various industries. Hyperledger's projects include a variety of enterprise-ready permissioned blockchain platforms, where network participants are known to one another and therefore have an intrinsic interest in participating in the consensus-making process. Using the available components under the Hyperledger umbrella, a business can apply various modular blockchain solutions and services to significantly improve the performance of their operations and the efficiency of their business processes. Key Takeaways Hyperledger is an open-source community focused on developing a suite of stable frameworks, tools, and libraries for permissioned, enterprise-grade blockchain deployments. It is a global collaboration, hosted by The Linux Foundation, and includes member organizations that are leaders in finance, banking, Internet of Things, supply chains, manufacturing, and technology. Several sub-projects exist, including Hyperledger Fabric, Sawtooth, Composer, and Cello. Understanding Hyperledger The Hyperledger project was created in December 2015 by the San Francisco, Californiabased Linux Foundation. It started with 30 member firms and has grown to more than 120 member companies today. Hyperledger was set up with the aim of accelerating industry-wide collaboration for developing high-performance and reliable blockchain and distributed ledger-based technology framework that could be used across the various industry sectors to enhance the efficiency, performance, and transactions of the various business processes. Hyperledger is a global collaboration that includes leading businesses from the fields of finance, banking, Internet of Things (IoT), supply chain management, manufacturing and production, and technology. They include big names like Bosch, Daimler, IBM, Samsung, Microsoft, Hitachi, American Express, JP Morgan, and Visa, in addition to a host of blockchain-based startups like Blockforce and ConsenSys. Hyperledger's Organizational Structure Essentially, Hyperledger is not an organization, a cryptocurrency network, or a blockchain system. It does not support a cryptocurrency like bitcoin, but it works by providing the necessary infrastructure and standards for developing various blockchain-based systems and applications for industrial use. Think of Hyperledger as a hub, where various individual blockchain-based projects and tools that adhere to its defined design philosophy operate under its umbrella. The various projects include the following: Hyperledger Fabric is a platform for building various blockchain-based products, solutions, and applications for business use. A now-defunct layer called Hyperledger Composer has since been merged with Fabric as well. Hyperledger Cello allows blockchain to be used through an on-demand as-a-service deployment model (Blockchain-as-a-Service). Hyperledger Explorer is a dashboard utility that allows for the monitoring, searching, and maintenance of blockchain developments and related data. Hyperledger Burrow is a permissioned Ethereum smart-contract blockchain node that handles transactions and executes smart contract code on the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). Hyperledger Sawtooth is an enterprise-level, permissioned, modular blockchain platform that uses an innovative Proof of Elapsed Time consensus algorithm. Hyperledger Caliper is a blockchain benchmark tool that is used to evaluate the performance of a specific blockchain implementation. All such projects under the Hyperledger umbrella follow the design methodology that supports a modular and extensible approach, interoperability, and security features. The projects remain agnostic to a particular token or cryptocurrency, though a user can create one as required. Hyperledger Technology Layers In terms of the architecture, Hyperledger uses the following key business components: What Is an Acquisition Premium?lsbet prediction foxwoods carnival An acquisition premium is a figure that's the difference between the estimated real value of a company and the actual price paid to acquire it. An acquisition premium represents the increased cost of buying a target company during a merger and acquisition (M&A) transaction. There is no requirement that a company pay a premium for acquiring another company; in fact, depending on the situation, it may even get a discount. Understanding Acquisition Premiums In an M&A scenario, the company that pays to acquire another company is known as the acquirer, and the company to be purchased or acquired is referred to as the target firm. Reasons For Paying An Acquisition Premium Typically, an acquiring company will pay an acquisition premium to close a deal and ward off competition. An acquisition premium might be paid, too, if the acquirer believes that the synergy created from the acquisition will be greater than the total cost of acquiring the target company. The size of the premium often depends on various factors such as competition within the industry, the presence of other bidders, and the motivations of the buyer and seller. In cases where the target companys stock price falls dramatically, its product becomes obsolete, or if there are concerns about the future of its industry, the acquiring company may withdraw its offer. How Does An Acquisition Premium Work? When a company decides that it wants to acquire another firm, it will first attempt to estimate the real value of the target company. For example, the enterprise value of Macys, using data from its 2017 10-K report, is estimated at $11.81 billion. After the acquiring company determines the real value of its target, it decides how much it is willing to pay on top of the real value so as to present an attractive deal to the target firm, especially if there are other firms that are considering an acquisition. In the example above an acquirer may decide to pay a 20% premium to buy Macys. Thus, the total cost it will propose would be $11.81 billion x 1.2 = $14.17 billion. If this premium offer is accepted, then the acquisition premium value will be $14.17 billion - $11.81 billion = $2.36 billion, or in percentage form, 20%. Arriving at the Acquisition Premium You also may use a target company's share price to arrive at the acquisition premium. For instance, if Macys is currently trading at $26 per share, and an acquirer is willing to pay $33 per share for the target companys outstanding shares, then you may calculate the acquisition premium as ($33 - $26)/$26 = 27%. However, not every company pays a premium for an acquisition intentionally. Using our price-per-share example, let's assume that there was no premium offer on the table and the agreed-upon acquisition cost was $26 per share. If the value of the company drops to $16 before the acquisition becomes final, the acquirer will find itself paying a premium of ($26 - $16)/$16 = 62.5%. Key Takeaways An acquisition premium is a figure that's the difference between the estimated real value of a company and the actual price paid to acquire it in an M&A transaction. In financial accounting, the acquisition premium is recorded on the balance sheet as "goodwill." An acquiring company is not required to pay a premium for purchasing a target company, and it may even get a discount. Acquisition Premiums in Financial Accounting In financial accounting, the acquisition premium is known as goodwillthe portion of the purchase price that is higher than the sum of the net fair value of all of the assets purchased in the acquisition and the liabilities assumed in the process. The acquiring company records goodwill as a separate account on its balance sheet. Goodwill factors in intangible assets like the value of a target company's brand, solid customer base, good customer relations, healthy employee relations, and any patents or proprietary technology acquired from the target company. An adverse event, such as declining cash flows, economic depression, increased competitive environment and the like can lead to an impairment of goodwill, which occurs when the market value of the target company's intangible assets drops below its acquisition cost. Any impairment results in a decrease in goodwill on the balance sheet and shows as a loss on the income statement. An acquirer can purchase a target company for a discount, that is, for less than its fair value. When this occurs, negative goodwill is recognized. What Is Annuity Due?free spin casino promo codes An annuity due is an annuity whose payment is due immediately at the beginning of each period. A common example of an annuity due payment is rent, as landlords often require payment upon the start of a new month as opposed to collecting it after the renter has enjoyed the benefits of the apartment for an entire month. Key Takeaways Annuity due is an annuity whose payment is due immediately at the beginning of each period. Annuity due can be contrasted with an ordinary annuity where payments are made at the end of each period. A common example of an annuity due payment is rent paid at the beginning of each month. An example of an ordinary annuity includes loans, such as mortgages. The present and future value formulas for an annuity due differ slightly from those for an ordinary annuity as they account for the differences in when payments are made. What Is An Annuity? How Annuity Due Works 1:38 An annuity due requires payments made at the beginning, as opposed to the end, of each annuity period. Annuity due payments received by an individual legally represent an asset. Meanwhile, the individual paying the annuity due has a legal debt liability requiring periodic payments. Because a series of annuity due payments reflect a number of future cash inflows or outflows, the payer or recipient of the funds may wish to calculate the entire value of the annuity while factoring in the time value of money. One can accomplish this by using present value calculations. A present value table for an annuity due has the projected interest rate across the top of the table and the number of periods as the left-most column. The intersecting cell between the appropriate interest rate and the number of periods represents the present value multiplier. Finding the product between one annuity due payment and the present value multiplier yields the present value of the cash flow. A whole life annuity due is a financial product sold by insurance companies that require annuity payments at the beginning of each monthly, quarterly, or annual period, as opposed to at the end of the period. This is a type of annuity that will provide the holder with payments during the distribution period for as long as they live. After the annuitant passes on, the insurance company retains any funds remaining. Income payments from an annuity are taxed as ordinary income. Annuity Due vs. Ordinary Annuity An annuity due payment is a recurring issuance of money upon the beginning of a period. Alternatively, an ordinary annuity payment is a recurring issuance of money at the end of a period. Contracts and business agreements outline this payment, and it is based on when the benefit is received. When paying for an expense, the beneficiary pays an annuity due payment before receiving the benefit, while the beneficiary makes ordinary due payments after the benefit has occurred. The timing of an annuity payment is critical based on opportunity costs. The collector of the payment may invest an annuity due payment collected at the beginning of the month to generate interest or capital gains. This is why an annuity due is more beneficial for the recipient as they have the potential to use funds faster. Alternatively, individuals paying an annuity due lose out on the opportunity to use the funds for an entire period. Those paying annuities thus tend to prefer ordinary annuities. Examples of Annuity Due An annuity due may arise due to any recurring obligation. Many monthly bills, such as rent, car payments, and cellphone payments, are annuities due because the beneficiary must pay at the beginning of the billing period. Insurance expenses are typically annuities due as the insurer requires payment at the start of each coverage period. Annuity due situations also typically arise relating to saving for retirement or putting money aside for a specific purpose. How to Calculate the Value of an Annuity Due The present and future values of an annuity due can be calculated using slight modifications to the present value and future value of an ordinary annuity. Present Value of an Annuity Due The present value of an annuity due tells us the current value of a series of expected annuity payments. In other words, it shows what the future total to be paid is worth now. Calculating the present value of an annuity due is similar to calculating the present value of an ordinary annuity. However, there are subtle differences to account for when annuity payments are due. For an annuity due, payments are made at the beginning of the interval, and for an ordinary annuity, payments are made at the end of a period. The formula for the present value of an annuity due is: Present Value of Annuity Due.Investopedia With: C = Cash flows per period i = interest rate n = number of payments Let's look at an example of the present value of an annuity due. Suppose you are a beneficiary designated to immediately receive $1000 each year for 10 years, earning an annual interest rate of 3%. You want to know how much the stream of payments is worth to you today. Based on the present value formula, the present value is $8,786.11. Present Value of an Annuity Due.Investopedia Future Value of an Annuity Due The future value of an annuity due shows us the end value of a series of expected payments or the value at a future date. Just as there are differences in how the present value is calculated for an ordinary annuity and an annuity due, there are also differences in how the future value of money is calculated for an ordinary annuity and an annuity due. The future value of an annuity due is calculated as: Future Value of an Annuity Due. Investopedia Using the same example, we calculate that the future value of the stream of income payments to be $11,807.80. Future Value of an Annuity Due.Investopedia Annuity Due FAQs Which Is Better, Ordinary Annuity or Annuity Due? Whether an ordinary annuity or an annuity due is better depends on whether you are the payee or payer. As a payee, an annuity due is often preferred because you receive payment up front for a specific term, allowing you to use the funds immediately and enjoy a higher present value than that of an ordinary annuity. As a payer, an ordinary annuity might be favorable as you make your payment at the end of the term, rather than the beginning. You are able to use those funds for the entire period before paying. Often, you are not afforded the option to choose. For example, insurance premiums are an example of an annuity due, with premium payments due at the beginning of the covered period. A car payment is an example of an ordinary annuity, with payments due at the end of the covered period. What Is an Immediate Annuity? An immediate annuity is an account, funded with a lump sum deposit, that generates an immediate stream of income payments. The income can be for a stated amount (e.g., $1,000/month), a stated period (e.g., 10 years), or a lifetime. How Do You Calculate the Future Value of an Annuity Due? The future value of an annuity due is calculated using the formula: Future Value of an Annuity Due. Investopedia where C = cash flows per period i = interest rate n = number of payments What Does Annuity Mean? An annuity is an insurance product designed to generate payments immediately or in the future to the annuity owner or a designated payee. The account holder either makes a lump sum payment or a series of payments into the annuity and can either receive an immediate stream of income or defer receiving payments until some time in the future, usually after an accumulation period where the account earns interest tax-deferred. What Happens When an Annuity Expires? Once an annuity expires, the contract terminates and no future payments are made. The contractual obligation is fulfilled, with no further duties owed from either party. The Bottom Line An annuity due is an annuity with payment due or made at the beginning of the payment interval. In contrast, an ordinary annuity generates payments at the end of the period. As a result, the method for calculating the present and future values differ. A common example of an annuity due is rent payments made to a landlord, and a common example of an ordinary annuity includes mortgage payments made to a lender. Depending on whether you are the payer or payee, the annuity due might be a better option. nba lines las vegasshows grade level based on the word's complexity. black rust New Word List Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. Thisshows grade level based on the word's complexity.Save This Word!This shows grade level based on the word's complexity. noun Plant Pathology.any of several diseases of plants caused by rusts and characterized by black discoloration resulting from the fungal teliospores. Words nearby black rust How to use black rust black rust nouna stage in any of several diseases of cereals and grasses caused by rust fungi in which black masses of spores appear on the stems or leaves Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012 QUIZWILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!Question black rustAn Americanism dating back to 178090black root rot, black rot, black ruff, black run, Black Russian, black rust, black sage, black sapote, Black Sash, Blacksburg, black scoterDictionary.com UnabridgedBased on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2022 Over 2,000 surgeries delivered as part of R&R programme Between August 2022 and May 2023 over 2,000 patients underwent surgery for conditions where lengthy waiting lists had been identified as a concern. Since the beginning of Manx Cares Restoration and Recovery (R&R) programme over 3,000 surgical procedures have now been delivered, more than 1,000 diagnostic tests undertaken and over 1,000 outpatient appointments delivered. In October 2022 the R&R programme received 18.3 million of government funding to provide a dedicated service to reduce long waiting lists, one of the actions identified in the Island Plan, which had been further impacted by the covid-19 pandemic. The funding has been used to partner with the UK provider Synaptik to work alongside the surgical teams already based at Nobles Hospital to increase Manx Cares existing capacity and introduce additional teams to perform surgeries, treatments and consultations. Phase two of the R&R programme ran from August 2022 to May 2023, and has successfully continued to reduce waiting times for a number of procedures. This phase is focused on orthopaedic, ophthalmology and general surgery. As well as surgeries, Manx Care and Synaptik also provided both treatments and consultations. A detailed update on the programme will be laid before the October sitting of Tynwald, outlining the amount spent, number of surgeries delivered and current waiting times as part of the programme. The update showcases the success of phase two which has resulted in a 79% reduction in the cataract waiting list, a 37% reduction in the orthopaedic inpatient waiting list and a 23% reduction in the General Surgery inpatient waiting list. The reduction in waiting times may now fluctuate in the coming months, as the programme moves to its next phase which is treatment for complex patients and those who were unable to accept surgeries on the shorter timetables. Manx Care continue to work with patients to ensure they are seen as early as possible to maximise the number of patients benefiting from this activity. The updated figures can be seen on the Tynwald Register of Business. Divers return iconic ship's bell to Dundalk A team of divers from the Isle of Man has visited the town of Dundalk, Ireland to bring the bell of the Steam Ship Dundalk back to a grateful town. The divers from Discover Diving in Port St Mary were guests of honour as the bell, its wrought-iron hanger, a porthole and a washbasin from the wreck were handed over to the Louth County Museum in Dundalk. The Dundalk and Newry Steam Packet Company flagship SS Dundalk was attacked on 14th October 1918 by a German U-boat whilst on a return trip from Liverpool to Dundalk. 21 people were lost in the sinking and only 12 survived, some of the survivors were brought to Douglas. Most of the crew were local to the Dundalk area. In 2018 a committee of descendants of the crew unveiled a memorial clock on the Castletown River waterfront to those who were tragically lost just before the end of hostilities in 1918. The bell was recovered by divers Steve Cowley, Michelle Haywood and Kathryn Fowler in July 2019. Anne Corkill and Dave Copley recovered the basin and porthole. Extensive conservation followed to remove over 100 years of encrusted marine life and preserve the artefacts. The washbasin was painstakingly cleaned by hand to remove barnacles and reveal almost intact porcelain glaze. The wrought iron hanger was the most challenging and underwent months of reverse electrolysis and a 2-week drying out process to stabilize and preserve it. Remarkably, the bell still had traces of the black enamel paint used to highlight the engraved letters of the ships name. The finds were declared to the Receiver of Wreck who awarded ownership to the divers. A long-term loan to the County Museum was arranged to ensure that the bell returned to its original home. However, plans to travel to Ireland in 2020 were thwarted by the outbreak of Covid 19 and the closed borders, so the bell remained in Port St Mary until this year when the team were able to travel across. Michelle Haywood explained This is not the sort of thing we could send in a parcel. Its just too precious for that. The ships bell is such an iconic part of any vessel. It was only right for us to travel over to present our finds to the town of Dundalk. In a reception at the Museum attended by over 100 relatives and friends, the bell was finally unveiled and the dive team were presented with copies of the commemorative book produced for the centenary. Museum Curator, Brian Walsh said It is impossible to overstate just how important these items are. These artefacts are being returned to the port from which the ship took its name. These items not only represent the horrors of what happened that night and the loss of so many lives, they represent the relief efforts of those people who set about organising fundraisers to support the families of those who lost loved ones, and remind us of our ancestors, how they survived and thrived through some of our darkest hours. Last week, MGM Resorts disclosed a massive systems issue that reportedly rendered slot machines, room keys and other critical devices inoperable. What elaborate methods were required to crack a nearly $34 billion casino and hotel empire? According to the hackers themselves (and seemingly confirmed by a source speaking with Bloomberg), all it took was a 10-minute phone call. By all appearances, the alleged hackers behind the MGM issue, gained access through one of the most ubiquitous and low-tech vectors: a social engineering attack. Social engineering psychologically manipulates a target into doing what the attacker wants, or giving up information that they shouldnt in this case, apparently, by pulling a fast one on an unsuspecting IT help desk worker. The consequences range from taking down global corporations to devastating the personal finances of unfortunate individual victims. But what makes social engineering attacks so effective, and why are they so hard to prevent? It seems counterintuitive to hand over sensitive information to a complete stranger, but attackers have developed ways to trick you into feeling comfortable doing just that. Those could include building trust over time, gathering information about you to seem like they know you or using a sense of urgency to get you to act quickly without thinking through what youre giving up. Thats why common personality traits among cyber victims include being extroverted, agreeable and open to new experiences, according to Erik Huffman, a researcher who studies the psychology behind cybersecurity trends. Fear is an attack vector. Helpfulness is an attack vector, Huffman said. The more comfortable you are, the more hackable you become. Plus, digital environments have fewer social cues versus being face to face, so a potential victim is not as good at sensing potentially suspicious signs, Huffman said. We read messages in our own voice, projecting our own good will onto them, which normally doesnt happen in person. Theres less information like social cues or body language to guide us or give us a gut feeling that somethings off. A social engineering attack could be as simple as a faux-urgent phone call from a scammer to get your credit card information for low level theft. But there are increasingly complicated Rube Goldberg attacks that layer multiple approaches to fool you, according to Sophos X-Ops principal researcher Andrew Brandt. In an example of such an attack, Brandt observed scammers first operating over the phone to get a target to click an email also sent by the scammer. Once clicked, the email would activate an attack chain that included malware and remote access software. More likely, youll encounter it on a much simpler level. You might get a text from someone pretending to be your boss asking for gift cards or be tricked into clicking a malicious link that phishes your credentials. But one way or another youll probably run into it eventually, as an estimated 98 percent of cyberattacks rely to some extent on social engineering tactics, according to research from Splunk. There are some other warning signs people can look out for. Having to download an unusually big file, a password protected zip file that cant be scanned for malware or a suspicious shortcut file are all signs of a potential attack, according to Brandt. But a lot of its a gut feeling and taking time to step back before proceeding to consider what could go wrong. It is a practice that takes repetition and rehearsal over and over again to reflexively distrust what people say to you who you dont know, Brandt said. Huffman said people can try to avoid falling victim by acknowledging the limitations of a digital environment, and asking questions like: Does it make sense for this person to reach out to me? Does this person behave in a trustworthy manner? Does this person have the authority or position of power to give these directions? Does this person truly understand the topic were discussing? Social engineering attacks happen constantly, to huge corporations as well as everyday people. Knowing that our good-natured traits can be our greatest weakness when faced with this variety of bad actors, it can be tempting to stop being nice altogether for safety's sake. The key is balancing our social instincts with healthy skepticism. You can be helpful," said Huffman, "but be cautious. These days when we talk about what's next for chip design, we focus on things like cramming in more cores, increasing clock speeds, shrinking transistors and 3D stacking. We rarely think about the package substrate, which holds and connects those components. Today Intel, in the midst of its reinvention as a foundry company, has announced it's made a major breakthrough in substrate materialsand it's all about glass. The company says its new glass substrate, which is set to arrive in advanced chip designs later this decade, will be stronger and more efficient than existing organic materials. Glass will also allow the company to cram more chiplets and other components next to each other, something that could lead to flexing and instability with an existing silicon package using organic materials. "Glass substrates can tolerate higher temperatures, offer 50% less pattern distortion, and have ultra-low flatness for improved depth of focus for lithography, and have the dimensional stability needed for extremely tight layer-to-layer interconnect overlay," Intel said in a press release. With these capabilities, the company claims glass substrates will also lead to a ten-fold increase in interconnect density, as well as allow for "ultra-large form-factor packages with very high assembly yields." Intel We're slowly beginning to see what Intel's future chips could actually look like. Two years ago, the company announced its "gate-all-around" transistor design, RibbonFET, as well as PowerVia, which would let Intel move power delivery to the rear of a chip wafer. At the same time, Intel also announced it would be building chips for Qualcomm and Amazon's AWS service. Intel says we'll see chips using glass substrates in areas in high performance areas first, like AI, graphics and data centers. The glass breakthrough is another sign that Intel is ramping up its advanced packaging capabilities for its US foundries, as well. That's something TSMC is reportedly stumbling on with its Phoenix, Arizona plant, which will require shipping chip materials back to Taiwan for advanced packaging. Igualdad Montero defiende el derecho al cuidado y pide al Estado que se haga "corresponsable" de una tarea que es "esencial" Monday, September 18, 2023 In the annals of history, the names of great heroes often shine brightly, but there are some heroes whose light remains hidden, obscured by the shadows of time. Adolfo Kaminsky is one such unsung hero, a man whose remarkable acts of courage and compassion saved the lives of over 14,000 Jews during the darkest days of World War II. His story is a testament to the power of one individuals unwavering commitment to humanity in the face of unspeakable atrocities. Born in Argentina in 1925, Adolfo Kaminskys life took an extraordinary turn during World War II. As the Nazi regime escalated its persecution of Jews and other marginalized groups, the need for false identification documents became increasingly critical. Adolfo, a young Jewish man himself, possessed an innate talent for forgery. He quickly recognized that his skills could be used to make a difference in the lives of those facing persecution. Kaminskys journey into the world of forgery was not for personal gain but fueled by a deep sense of empathy and a burning desire to resist the horrors of the Holocaust. He embarked on a clandestine mission, forging documents such as passports, identity cards, and ration cards, all with impeccable precision. These false papers were the lifelines for thousands seeking to escape the clutches of the Nazi regime and its collaborators. His covert operation extended far beyond the boundaries of France, where he resided during the war. Kaminsky collaborated with an underground network, providing counterfeit documents to Jews and resistance fighters throughout Europe. His work was characterized by meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that each document could withstand the scrutiny of even the most astute Nazi officials. Kaminskys dedication knew no bounds. He risked his life daily, working tirelessly in secret laboratories, staying one step ahead of the Gestapo and their relentless pursuit of those involved in the resistance. His bravery allowed countless individuals to assume new identities and find safety in hidden corners of the world. After the war, Kaminskys story remained largely unknown. He chose to remain humble, shunning the limelight and dedicating his life to humanitarian causes. His actions were a testament to the belief that one person can make a profound difference in the world. It was only in recent years that the world began to recognize the incredible deeds of Adolfo Kaminsky. Documented in the book Adolfo Kaminsky: A Forgers Life by Sarah Kaminsky, his daughter, and gaining recognition through various documentaries and interviews, Kaminskys legacy has come to light. His story serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there are individuals who refuse to succumb to hatred and prejudice, choosing instead to uphold the values of compassion, justice, and human dignity. Adolfo Kaminskys courage and selflessness during World War II are a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human heart. His remarkable acts of forgery saved the lives of thousands and stand as a beacon of hope for future generations. In a world often marred by division and strife, Kaminskys story reminds us of the extraordinary power of one person to make a difference and to shine a light in the darkest of times. Monday, September 18, 2023 After seeing a terrific one-woman show on Friday night (Charlotte Bookers original show about Elsie Lanchester), Jan and I came home and she showed me THAT episode of The Bear. (We watched season one this summer, and Ive been slowly catching up since we got home). Season 2, Episode 5, Fishes, is rightly lauded and praised for acting, for writing, for directing, for storytelling, everything. Jan was excited for me to see it, because she found it so amazing. I too found it amazing, but for a different reason. Watching it, I was transported back to 3313 Hunter Street in Royal Oak, Michigan, every Sunday of my childhood. The post-war starter home wasnt quite so loud, and wasnt nearly so busy. But the undercurrent of threat radiating from the matriarch my grandmother was EXACTLY the same. Oh, Lyla used humor more than Jamie Lees character, her sharp tongue whittling down everyone and everything. My grandfather had retreated into silence, focused on the television, until he would suddenly erupt into rage over some seemingly inconsequential thing (Wheres the ketchup!?!). Other characters were painfully recognizable. My mother played the role of Sugar, always trying to make things better while being belittled by Lyla. My aunt Cheryl was Michael, loving and funny and sympathetic until she had a few drinks (or some coke on her gums) and then stirring shit and turning nasty. My uncle David (for whom I am NOT named) was both reviled and protected by Lyla and Chuck. They ruined him by protecting him from all consequences, from getting his teenage girlfriend pregnant to embezzling from his work. (Theatre enthusiasts may laugh when I state that he is the only person I have known in life who had a Bunbury of his own, just like Algernons fictional excuse to escape the world in The Importance Of Being Earnest. Only my uncle would use his imaginary invalid Tom to cheat on his wife and father a string of illegitimate children). Dinners at 3313 were electric, and awful. We didnt have outright violence no throwing of forks that I recall. But damn, the tension vibrated through those walls. Emotional violence was committed with every bite. With the temperature cranked up, the large picture window behind my grandfathers chair wept condensation throughout the meal. I always said that after Lyla and Chuck died, we shouldnt have sold the house, but rather razed it and salted the earth. By the time I was in the picture, Chuck was mostly a nonentity. He was just retiring from GM, and he enjoyed puttering in the basement. He built a beautiful doll house for me, which I found odd, but appreciated as a show of affection. He could never say, I love you. The closest he could come was, Drive safe. But the stories from my mothers childhood give me a better sense of the man, who raged and shouted at his wife, threatening to leave, even going so far as packing the car. My mother remembers huddling on the stairs holding her two little siblings while her parents raged at each other. Chuck didnt want my mother to have shoes, because she was a girl, so why should she ever need to leave the house? When she got her degree from the University of Michigan making her the first college grad in the family they made fun of her, saying she had flunked out of Michigan State, rather than having transferred. But then, making fun of their daughter was common for them. My mom tells a story about dining at a friends house and coming home to describe to Lyla how nice it had been, with flowers and candles on the table. Lyla responded the next night by putting out a bowl of dead flowers and placing broken candles on the table. Lyla thought it was hilarious. But then, my mother was usually the one cooking dinner during her childhood. Lyla would take mommys little helper and space out through the afternoons. In was up to my mother to clean and start making dinner, all while remaining absolutely silent if she woke Lyla from her nap there would be hell to pay. Of course, Lyla had her own tragic backstory. One of ten children, she was her fathers golden child, which made her mother jealous. Lyla could play the piano by ear. Anything she heard, she could recreate. Her father loved trotting out little child Lyla to entertain his friends by performing popular songs while they played cards and entertained. Her siblings resented her privileges, and she resented them right back. She had a disabled older sister, Pauline, and their parents forced Lyla to repeat a grade in elementary school so she didnt pass her sister. Like any natural talent taken for granted, amazing musical skills didnt interest Lyla. She loved drawing. At the end of high school, Lyla was given a scholarship to an art school in Detroit. She was thrilled. After two weeks there, her mother came to pick her up for lunch, and was shocked shocked! by the nude statues on campus. She forced Lyla to drop out. Seeing no alternative, Lyla accepted a marriage proposal from Chuck, and spent the rest of her life turning all her artistic talent into venom and caustic humor. A chainsmoking dry alcoholic, she was alternately racist, sexist, homophobic, ableist, and more. She and Chuck were the people who didnt understand that All In The Family was satire. They thought Archie Bunker was a hero, because he was just like them. Oddly enough, I was spared the lash of Lylas tongue. Like Hitler, Lyla loved dogs and little children. Possibly because I was the first grandchild, but more likely because she enjoyed showering affection on me in front of the son she had neglected and abused, Lyla made me her accomplice. I was her audience for the insults she ladled out as she made her delicious noodles from scratch, or amazing chocolate cake, or her limp, boiled broccoli, or her overcooked meat so dry it fell apart in strands. I shudder to think how I laughed as she ridiculed her husband and children to me. She often told me my parents didnt love me, only she did, and I should come live with her. She had already successfully made this play when my mother went to college, telling my then-8-year-old uncle that my mother had left because she didnt love my uncle anymore. Fortunately, I was secure enough in my parents love that this didnt work on me. She retaliated by ruining Santa Claus. I could go on and on with stories of gaslighting, passive-aggressive comments and actions. Ive often entertained people with the story of Lyla heckling Chucks eulogy (this happened!). But the clearest example of who she was, peak Lyla, was when my Aunt Cheryl died. At the age of 40, my aunt had a heart attack while shopping during her lunch break on Michigan Avenue in Chicago. My mother was notified, and they drove in to break the news to Lyla and Chuck. Upon hearing of Cheryls death, Chuck was silent while Lyla looked at my mother, her own daughter, and said, Ive lost the only child Ive ever loved. Ive always thought they would make a good play, Lyla and Chuck. But I just dont want to spend so much time in their heads. So Im grateful to The Bear for doing it for me. Good art is evocative of lived experience. It can be hard to revisit, but also cathartic. After watching the episode, it was great sharing with my wife, who thankfully owns no frame of real-life experience for that episode, the tales of weekly drama that were dinners at 3313. Just like Carm reclaiming cannoli from those terrible memories, sharing these tales makes good art. Because the best art comes from truth. The importance of native breeds of livestock to a sustainable future for UK farming and land management has been highlighted by parliamentarians. A House of Lords reception has marked 50 years of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST), the charity aiming to conserve the UKs native breeds of livestock. MPs and peers, including farming minister Mark Spencer, joined RBST trustees and farmers to hear about the work being done to help native breeds to thrive. The event, which marked 50 years of the charity, held talks on breeds' survival and utilisation matters for food production, the environment and rural communities. Defra farming minister Mark Spencer told the reception: RBSTs work conserving and promoting the UKs native breeds is essential to protecting that genetic diversity. "A strong abattoir network is a really important part of farming with native breeds and we want to continue working with RBST to help small abattoirs to flourish. "The UK has some of the best products in the world, and our native livestock breeds have an important role in high quality, sustainable food production today and for the future. The RBST's recently updated watchlist highlights a number of breeds across the UKs native livestock and equine breeds which are in growing need of support. The British Landrace pig breed has seen a dramatic decline with just 23 dams producing pedigree progeny in 2022, down from 43 in 2021. The low numbers are in stark contrast to the 1970s, 80s and 90s when the breed expanded rapidly to become one of the UK's most popular for commercial pigs. An annual situation report for breeds, the watchlist also shows a major fall in British Saddleback pig registration numbers. And Llanwenog sheep has also seen a significant drop in registered births for the second consecutive year. The breed is considered 'at risk'. RBST President, Baroness Hayman of Ullock, said that despite these concerns, interest and support for the UK's rare native breeds continued to grow in parliament. "This reception created a valuable opportunity to bring together ministers, peers and MPs with native breed experts to discuss the crucial role for these breeds in future farming. RBST chief executive Christopher Price added that the charity was 'proud' to recognise 'hard-won successes' of the past five decades. "Our focus this year is also on native breeds for modern needs, and this parliamentary reception was full of discussion about the role of native breeds in a sustainable future of farming and environment land management. "We continue to seek a policy environment that supports and encourages farming with native breeds and keeping native equine breeds. "We look forward to continuing these discussions with the ministers, MPs and peers that joined us at this reception. Nearly all farmers in Northern Ireland received Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) support in the first week of September, figures show. Figures by the Department of Agriculture (DAERA) shows that 98 percent of farmers in the province have received BPS entitlements. In August, the department said it aimed to pay BPS entitlements in the first week of September. Responding, the Ulster Farmers Union (UFU) said the move had provided 'a huge boost to family farms'. Farmers faced significant financial pressure this summer, the union said, with the added complexity of the weather and the wettest July on record. UFU president David Brown said: It is extremely positive that many of our members received their direct payment in the first few days of September "I would like to thank DAERA for their efforts to ensure farmers received this necessary financial support that is crucial to the daily running of family farms. "This year to date has thrown many challenges at our members from unpredictable weather to falling farm gate prices. "This payment will assist farmers cash flow, helping to sustain farm businesses as they continue to produce quality food to the highest standards. Elsewhere in the UK, farmers in England saw BPS advance payments - 50% of the total amount - issued on 1 August. The remaining balance is expected to roll out from December, the Rural Payment Agency (RPA) recently confirmed. A Norwegian farmer and his sheepdog have been world champions during the World Sheepdog Trials, which took place at Gill Hall Estate in Northern Ireland. Petter Landfald, and his dog Max, went head-to-head with 16 of the worlds best sheepdogs and handlers over the first three days of the trials, which took part in Northern Ireland for the first ever time. He emerged victorious, alongside 17-year-old Tyler McKinlay, from Lanark, Scotland and her dog, Heatherstane Squiggle, who were named Young Handler World Champion at the event. The annual event welcomed approximately 30,000 spectators alongside 240 handlers from over 30 different countries. The trials are where the very best of farmers and their sheepdogs are put through their paces. Notably, this is the first year that the trials have had an all-female final in the junior competition. Branding their performance as outstanding, John McCullough, chairman of the World Trial Committee, spoke out to congratulate Petter and Tyler on their world titles. He said: The standards shown at the Trials this week have been exceptional so to walk away with world titles is certainly no mean feat. "It was an absolute joy to watch Petter and Tyler in action in the competition field over the past few days and especially today (Saturday). Huge congratulations to Petter and Tyler thoroughly well deserved. Northern Ireland has a rich farming history and were so proud to have contributed to this by bringing a once in a lifetime event to our shores." Isabel Branch, CEO of the International Sheep Dog Society added that there had been 'lots of tough competition'. "Its a testament to farmers around the world who remain committed to preserving more traditional methods of farming and to promoting the very best in terms of breeding." Prince William has launched a new mental health strategy for Duchy of Cornwall tenants, with a specific focus on farmers. The strategy, developed over the past year and available to all tenants across the estate, is designed to prioritise farmers' mental health while de-stigmatising the topic. The Duchy of Cornwall estate, which is now headed by Prince William, extends to 20 counties in England and Wales, consisting off approximately 500 farm lettings. The Duchy said it would provide mental health care and support to its tenant farmers via trained staff at a dedicated wellbeing service, as well as staff and farmer training. Concerning figures show that one farmer loses their battle with mental health each week in the UK. Matthew Morris, rural director at the Duchy of Cornwall, said mental health was an 'incredibly important' conversation to have, especially in the farming community. "Talking about mental health in rural communities can be difficult and is often stigmatised, so one of things," Mr Morris said. "The Duchy want to do with the new strategy is to de-stigmatise the conversation and make it normal to talk about mental health. "We are really proud to have now launched the strategy, as well as multiple support networks for our tenants where we hope we can make an active difference. To launch the strategy, the Duchy has partnered with RABI, the Farming Community Network and Hereford-based charity, We Are Farming Minds, co-founded by Duchy of Cornwall tenants Sam and Emily Stables. Following struggles with their own mental wellbeing and seeing the stigma around mental health in the industry, the Stables founded the charity to support farmers' mental health. The Duchy of Cornwall and We Are Farming Minds are partnering on the strategy for at least three years and will have regular check-ins to see how the partnership can improve. The Duchys new mental health strategy is available now to all tenants across the estate. Chinese company Cherry Button Limited is going to establish a garments accessories manufacturing industry in Adamjee economic processing zone (EPZ) with an investment of $12.2 million. Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA) and Cherry Button Limited signed an agreement to this effect at BEPZA Complex, Dhaka, recently. The fully foreign owned company will produce 1,650 million pieces of metal buttons, plastic buttons, metal zippers, vislon zippers, nylon coil zippers, and other accessories like eyelets, rivets, stoppers, badges, buckles, suspender buckles, etc annually. The company is expected to create job opportunities for 1,068 Bangladeshis, BEPZA said in a press release. Chinese firm Cherry Button Limited will invest $12.2 million to establish a garment accessory manufacturing unit in Bangladesh's Adamjee economic processing zone. The project is set to create 1,068 jobs locally. The facility will annually produce 1,650 million pieces of various garment accessories including metal and plastic buttons, zippers, and more. Member (investment promotion) of BEPZA Ali Reza Mazid and chairman of Cherry Button Limited MA Miaoyan (Jasika) signed the agreement on behalf of their respective organisations. Executive chairman of BEPZA major general Abul Kalam Mohammad Ziaur Rahman observed the agreement signing ceremony. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (NB) Some actors act so naturally that it becomes difficult to ascertain where the character ends and the person begins. One such actor is Revathi. She started acting in the early 80s and after making a mark in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Hindi films, she segued into direction in 2002, with Mitr, My Friend, which won her a National Award for Best Feature Film in English. Her other directorial efforts include Phir Milenge (2004), Makal segment in Malayalam film Kerala Cafe (2009), Parcel segment in Mumbai Cutting (2010) and the recently released Salaam Venky. She talks about her career choices and more in a candid interview. Excerpts:Live life to the fullest. Always create happiness for your family and friends. Happiness is simple, but for some people, it is really difficult. Salaam Venky is basically the story of a mother and son. The mother is trying to make her sons life worth every minute. I think the way she did it, as well as her sons spirit to live life to the fullest, really resonated with me.Sujatas character was not easy to play, and I strongly felt a person who is a mother will be able to play this from deep within. Its not that other actresses cannot but I just felt it would make a difference. The character was exactly the age that Kajol is. Kajol has featured in the film Sapne alongside Prabhu Deva and Arvind Swami. The original movie was in Tamil,and I had voiced her character in Tamil. So wed bonded back then. Weve met a couple of times before. I think she saw my films also; that was the connection that happened. When we met for Salaam Venky, it was warm.Yes, before I narrated the script, Kajol said no. She stated that she does not want to play the mother of a sick child or any other such role because she cannot handle ki mere bacche ko kuch ho jaaye. But then, after the narration, she thought it was a well-written script that spoke to her.Yes, many times. The problem is that you are constantly reminded that you are a mother, and I believe that is a difficult hurdle to surpass. Yes, she became so emotional that she didnt use glycerin or anything else.She is intuitive. She is not the kind of actress who prepares herself. She likes to come on the sets and get into the character. Sometimes it is shocking that one minute she is cracking jokes and the next shes in her character. She just changes instantly. She is able to deliver things with ease.She didnt come with the baggage of I am a star. Wo mere paas kachchi mitti ki tarah aayi. She just gave herself to me, which is so beautiful. She didnt come with ki ye mera character hai, main aisa karungi ya nahin karungi. Yes, actors bring in their elements and that also works. She was like Maam: You just tell me what to do. In that way, I am lucky that every actor in my film worked like that. Everyone was working because they were interested in the characters they were portraying.I was waiting for the right script. In my younger days, in the 80s or early 90s, I did certain films for the sake of it. But now I am picky because I feel that my time is precious and I dont want to waste it on something that I will regret.There are no criteria. When you listen to a script as an actor, you sometimes connect and sometimes you dont. As a director, its more complicated. Because I should be able to live and understand the entire story. I am an urban kid. My dad was in the army, so there are only certain things that I am able to totally connect with. Also I am a people-oriented person, so I like working on relationships. The bond that humans have with other humans...Thats what interests me the most.That was a different time for me as a person because that was the time when I was getting some of my best scripts. During that time, there were films written for female characters. Love ek Telugu film ka hi remake hai, directed by the same person. It was fun.Salman Khan is a very nice person. And when he likes someone, he will keep in touch with that person. Thats the reason he did my film, Phir Milenge. Whenever Ive called him, hes met me.Its changed a lot in terms of storytelling. And technically everything has changed. But the soul of the film is still the story, the script and the human connection. Technically, its changed a lot. How we tell a story and, of course, pre- and post-production are entirely different. But its nice. I am enjoying it.I dont think this is new. If you see Smita Patil, Shabana Azmi, and Dipti Naval they all have done good, female-centric films. Even if you see mainstream cinema, like Abhimaan, It was an equal role for both of them (Jaya Bachchan and Amitabh Bachchan). You now have OTT platform as well as a theatre platform. It is interesting that they are writing for middle-aged women on OTT. Earlier, films were dominated by girls but today is the age of women. If you see Neena Gupta... jaise Meena Kumari ke liye script likhi jaati thi black and white era mein, the same way characters are being written for Neena. So yes, times have changed and now we share an equal space, which is great.Its just that when you listen to a story as an actor, you think differently than when you listen to a story as a director. So as an actor, the character has to challenge me. If its interesting then I feel thrilled to do it. As a director, I like to tell happy stories. I feel that after watching my film, when you come out of the theatre, you should remember some things. I want you to continue thinking and I want you to talk about it and maybe do something about it.I just want to say that I am lucky. I am blessed that I am doing what I want to do. Bahut logon ko nahin milta hai, so I am very blessed in that way.Yes. I love to spend time with my family and my daughter, who is nine. I love travelling, I love to drive from Mumbai to Delhi or from Mumbai to Chennai. I loved to drive and see places. I like to eat in small eateries. I was brought up in such a way that I can live in a seven-star hotel or I can live in a chota jhopdi. So I can do both. Your outlook on life is optimistic, which is reflected in your films. But still, did you have to face a difficult phase in your life, and how did you deal with it? I was also depressed. After 50, there are a lot of lessons that life has taught me and that have helped me be who I am now. Otherwise, if you asked me this at the age of 20-25, Id have said Im living a fantastic life. At 30 or 35, I wouldnt have even spoken to anyone but gone through everything silently. My biggest pillar of strength is my family. My mother, father, and younger sister. If you have a family and close friends who believe in you, you automatically know that you can do anything. Otherwise, you are travelling alone and sometimes this can be difficult.That we should not just keep looking at the past. The past is for learning, but you need to go beyond regret. Dont regret it if youve learned something. We can walk forward, so keep moving forward. Dont be stagnant. Yes, sometimes the phase of stagnancy is also good because you can sit and think, ki ismen accha kya hai but dont remain stagnant for too long.As an actor, I have just finished a series called Tooth Pari for OTT. I am playing a different role in that. I have also played a small role in Tiger 3. It is widely accepted that Shabana Azmi is one of the most exceptional talents to have emerged from Indian cinema. The renowned actress, who recently appeared in the highly successful film Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, first appeared on screen in 1974 in Shyam Benegal's Ankur and subsequently became a leading figure in the arthouse cinema movement in India. In contrast to many of her peers, who tended to play conventional Bollywood heroines, Shabana Azmi consistently chose roles that demanded strong performances and pushed her boundaries as an artist. She was born on September 18, 1950, in Hyderabad, India. She has received several accolades throughout her career. Celebrating her 73rd birthday, let us take a look at the Filmfare Awards she has received throughout the yearsStarting with the 1977 film Swami, Shabana won her first Filmfare Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role at the 25th Filmfare Awards.Directed by Basu Chatterjee, Swami revolves around the struggles and challenges faced by Saudamini and her husband, played by Girish Karnad, as they navigate the complexities of married life and society. The nuance and genuineness of Shabana Azmi's interpretation of Saudamini received significant praise.Mahesh Bhatt directed this legendary movie featuring a remarkable ensemble cast comprising Shabana Azmi, Smita Patil, and Khulbhushan Kharbanda in the lead roles. Shabana played Pooja Malhotra, a woman who was deceived by her husband. Her exceptional portrayal of a woman who discovers a new purpose in life earned her second Filmfare Award for Best Actress at the 31st Filmfare Awards.Directed by Pravin Bhatt, Shaban Azmi played the titular role of Bhavna. The film revolves around Bhavna, who is a young woman from a traditional Indian family. She falls in love with and marries an Indian man living in the United Kingdom. However, their marriage faces numerous challenges due to cultural differences and societal expectations.Bhavna is known for tackling intercultural marriages, cultural clashes, and the struggles faced by women in such circumstances. Shabana Azmi's performance in the film received critical acclaim, as she portrayed the complexities of her character with depth and sensitivity and won the Best Actress award at the 32nd Filmfare Award.Based on the real-life story of the head purser Neerja Bhanot, the film was directed by Ram Madhvani. Sonam Kapoor played the role of the eponymous lead while Shabana Azmi portrayed the role of her mother Rama Bhanot.The character of Rama Bhanot in the movie serves as a crucial emotional pillar because she embodies the maternal strength and support that Neerja depended upon during the terrifying kidnapping incident. Rama Bhanot, as portrayed by Shabana Azmi, received significant accolades for its emotional nuance and veracity. Shabana won the Filmfare Best Actor In A Supporting Role Award for her role in the film. Amazon miniTV - Amazon's free video streaming service has been a part of the hit parade with its path-breaking and diverse content library. Adding yet another feather to its hat, the streaming service today announced its latest show, Builders - a unique one-of-a-kind comedy series that will give viewers an insight into the day-to-day incidents of a gym! Taking the excitement a level higher, Amazon miniTV released the trailer for the young adult drama bound to strike a chord with viewers across India. Releasing on 22nd September 2023, Builders will accord a heightened dramatic situation but will also leave the viewers in splits with cleverly crafted humor. Following the quest of a naive manager's struggle to save his gym from a financial fallout with some help from a few countable members, Builders features Swapnil, Ankit Motghare, Anushka Mishra, Vidushi Kaul, Avtar Gill, and many more. Created by The Screenpatti - a subsidiary under The Viral Fever (TVF), the amusing trailer of Builders unveils how the task of saving the gym falls on the manager, Mandar, who is a very simple-minded guy. The trailer is an amalgamation of fun and drama. While Mandar has been given the task of saving the gym, his simplicity is no match for a business runner which results in him seeking some help from his friends who are also members of the gym. The trailer also shares a glimpse of these friends cum gym members who join the hustle. This dream team includes the ambitious actress Parul, the hopeless romantic Kaameshwar, and the "been there, done that" uncle. Amogh Dusad, Head of Content, Amazon miniTV expressing his thoughts about the show, said, "We at Amazon miniTV aim to deliver unconventional yet relatable content for our viewers.It brings me great joy to bring to the audiences yet another comedy riot- Builders. This unique take on gyms is definitely going to touch your funny nerve." Anandeshwar Dwivedi said, "We are delighted to announce the release of our latest series, 'Builders,' on Amazon miniTV. This marks another exciting addition to our collaboration with Amazon miniTV, where we have successfully launched several series. We are confident that the audience will find 'Builders' to be a captivating situational drama, with engaging characters and a witty tone. It is always inspiring to see how our work is received by the national audience, as it fuels our dedication to developing more interesting content, cultivating collaborations with brilliant artists, and extending Amazon miniTV's remarkable content catalog." Watch the trailer here: TTF Vasan Faces a Shocking Accident: TTF Vasan, a well-known YouTuber popular among the youth in Tamil Nadu, is set to make his debut as an actor in the film 'Manjal Veeran.' However, recent reports have shocked his fans as they learned about his unfortunate accident, which has been circulating widely on social media platforms. Dhruva Sarja And Prerana Shankar Welcome Baby Boy, Bringing Joy To The Sarja Family In the video footage, TTF Vasan can be seen attempting a bike stunt while overtaking a car, but things took a tragic turn. On September 17, TTF Vasan experienced a dreadful accident when his bike collided heavily with a roadside platform. The impact caused him to be thrown from the bike, and he was propelled several metres away. A close friend of TTF Vasan, Ajees, confirmed the accident and requested fans to pray for his speedy recovery. It is reported that TTF Vasan was en route to Chennai from Kanchipuram, planning a bike road trip to Maharashtra with a friend. However, a bike stunt during the journey led to this serious accident, resulting in his hospitalisation at a private facility in Kanchipuram. Fortunately, TTF Vasan's condition is stable, although he has sustained a fracture to his hand. TTF Vasan's acting debut in 'Manjal Veeran,' in collaboration with director Chellam, was celebrated with the release of the film's first look poster a few weeks ago, coinciding with the actor's birthday. While the major shoot for the film is yet to commence, fans hope that this recent injury will not disrupt the film's progress. The full cast and crew of the film are yet to be revealed, and audiences can anticipate the introduction of several new faces alongside the lead actor. Meanwhile, filmmaker and writer Leo Rathna Kumar took to social media to urge individuals to refrain from promoting daring bike stunts. In a post on a popular social media platform, Rathna Kumar emphasised the importance of conducting such stunts in controlled environments, such as race tracks, to prevent accidents that could harm the general public. TTF Vasan has faced criticism in the past for his YouTube videos showcasing dangerous bike stunts, which some argue may negatively influence viewers. He has also been fined on multiple occasions for violating traffic regulations. The Journey From A Sub-Inspector's Son To YouTube Sensation TTF Vasan's journey into the world of YouTube and biking began in Velliangadu, a hill village near Karamadai, Coimbatore. His passion for bikes ignited when his father, Pandian, promised to buy him a bike if he achieved high marks in his 10th-grade exams. Pandian, who served as a sub-inspector, fulfilled his promise, and Vasan earned a Yamaha bike by scoring 400 marks. Throughout college, Vasan worked part-time and used his earnings to purchase his beloved Yamaha bike for 1.5 lakh. He embarked on long rides with his bike, documenting his adventures through videos on his YouTube channel, Twin Throttlers. Vasan's YouTube channel has gained immense popularity, attracting thousands of supporters who he considers part of his TTF family. His videos have garnered millions of views, and his bikes, including Kawasaki, Royal Enfield, R15, and Apache, are affectionately named Lollipop and Phoenix. Notably, his latest Kawasaki bike is valued at 10 lakhs and 50 thousand rupees, marking a milestone in his superbike journey. To assist him in creating and posting videos on YouTube, Vasan relies on the valuable contributions of his friends Ajees and Arun, who play integral roles in video production, editing, and uploading. King Of Kotha OTT Release Date, Streaming Platform, Cast, And Other Captivating Details With experiences travelling to Ladakh and Nepal under his belt, Vasan harbours a dream of embarking on a superbike journey to London, showcasing his passion for biking and adventure. Abhiya music video: It's time to send congratulatory messages to Abhishek Malhan and Jiya Shankar as their first project together has turned out to be a massive hit. The song titled Judaiyaan showcased their sizzling chemistry, proving why the fans loved them in Bigg Boss OTT 2. ABHISHEK MALHAN-JIYA SHANKAR JUDAIYAAN RECORDS Although they didn't win Bigg Boss, Abhishek and Jiya earned a significant fan following. Their fandom showered them with love and support when their music video was announced. Fukra Insaan and Jiya Shankar trended online as they featured on Times Square in New York City. AbhiYa, as fondly called by fans, shot their song in Chandigarh. From shoot vlogs together to riding a car in the city, the duo had a blast while they filmed their music video. Judaiyaan emerged as a successful song as it broke all the records on its first day of release. It became the most-viewed music video in the first 24 hours of release. Adding another feather to his cap, Judaiyaan created a spot in the list of globally popular songs. Guess what? It beat Not Ramaiya Vastavaiya from Shah Rukh Khan and Nayanthara starrer Jawan and What Jhumka from Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt's Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani. The Twitter (now X) handle of The Khabri shared the information with the netizens, revealing that Judaiyaan performed well and secured the number three spot. When Filmibeat checked the global music videos list released by YouTube, we found out that the song took the number eight position. Despite the drop song performed better than SRK and Ranveer's hit tracks from their recent releases. Big Breaking !!#JiyaShankar and #FukraInsaan Most loveable MV #Judaiyaan reaches in the list of globally Song with No.3 position !! Now it's became the first song of BB contestant who made it to No. 3 ! Reels count are increasing neutrals are making reels and their MV pic.twitter.com/coaGO2SV4B The Khabri (@thekhbri_) September 17, 2023 On the professional front, Abhishek Malhan will be next seen in another music video. He is also in talks with Netflix and T-series for their upcoming projects. Talking about Jiya, the Meri Hanikarak Biwi actress has been approached for a new film. She is yet to share details about the flick with her fans. [We see the Trader in You !] SYDNEY, Australia, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Axi a leading global Forex and CFD broker has announced the launch of Axi Select, a groundbreaking capital allocation programme. The programme is specifically crafted to empower traders by offering them a pathway to access capital funding up to$1,000,000 USD and facilitating their progression into professional trading. Setting a new precedent within the industry, Axi Select offers traders the exceptional advantage to join the program with zero registration fees, as well as the opportunity to earn up to 90% of their profits. Greg Rubin, Head of Axi Select, says: "Through the introduction of Axi Select, our innovative capital allocation programme, we aim to provide an opportunity for traders to forge long and successful careers, empowering them to realize their lifelong aspirations of becoming professional traders. Our comprehensive programme provides the capital, support, and resources necessary for traders to thrive in the dynamic world of trading. We are committed to fuelling their passion, driving their success, and providing unwavering support as they navigate towards achieving their goals." The programme offers a range of notable features, including unrestricted trading conditions, the Edge score which allows traders to fine-tune their strategies and enhance their trading performance, and an exclusive trading room which serves as a dedicated hub, offering real-time market updates and curated educational content. [LEARN MORE AND JOIN AXI SELECT] The Axi Selectprogramme is only available to clients of AxiTrader Limited. CFDs carry a high risk of investment loss. This content is not available for AU, NZ, and UK clients. For more information, refer to our Terms of Service. Other Fees may apply. Click here to watch the Axi Select fireside chat Talking about Axi Select, Louis Cooper, Chief Commercial Officer at Axi, says "At Axi, we take pride in being a brand that consistently brings the edge to life for our customers. Our revolutionary new offering, Axi Select, is the first-of-its-kind among brokers and another true reflection of our brand promise. We have previously allocated $39M to traders in previous programmes and enabled several traders break out into pro trading status. With Axi Select, we will deliver unparalleled opportunities to our traders whilst both redefining the boundaries of what's possible in trading and reshaping the evolution of the financial industry." Axi offers a streamlined process to participate in Axi Select - with no signup or membership fees, traders can effortlessly submit their application and start trading. Upon achieving a designated Edge Score, traders can start to secure capital funding of up to $1,000,000 USD. [LEARN MORE AND JOIN AXI SELECT] The Axi Selectprogramme is only available to clients of AxiTrader Limited. CFDs carry a high risk of investment loss. This content is not available for AU, NZ, and UK clients. For more information, refer to our Terms of Service. Other Fees may apply. Click here to watch the Axi Select fireside chat About Axi Axiis a global online FX and CFD trading company, trusted by thousands of ambitious customers in 100+ countries around the world. We help all types of traders, trading businesses, banks and financial organizations find the edge they need to achieve their financial goals through informed transactions made on the world's financial markets. Axi offers a wide range of assets including CFDs for several asset classes including Forex, Shares, Gold, Silver, Oil, Coffee, Indices, and other commodities. At Axi, we are proud of our reputation as an honest, fair, and trusted broker. Our many awards and 'Great' Trustpilot reviews prove we have earned the confidence of customers who value our outstanding service, fast execution, secure payments, segregated funds, and easy withdrawals. For further enquiries contact service@axi.com Check out other Axi communication at https://www.axi.com/int/blog/company-news Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d50c2d41-8931-47bd-9b0f-6a5572fb88e4 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/987d1f0e-63e9-4234-aaaf-6c041d74d3ba https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9a391ff3-5046-485a-916e-cca5bbb247b2 PDF accompanying this announcement is available at: http://ml-eu.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/1cfa04fb-a4cb-4b4d-b0dc-5b14a9f0aa0f Regulated Information - Denominator Atlas Special Opportunities, LLChas converted 6convertible bonds in Oxurion resulting in a EUR 150,000capital increase. This is part of Atlas Special Opportunities, LLC's EUR 20 million Capital Commitment1 that will allow Oxurion to focus on progressing its novel and differentiated back of the eye drug candidate targeting potential market opportunities of over USD 5billion. Leuven, BELGIUM,Boston, MA, US -September 18, 2023- 08.00 AM CET - In accordance with article 15 of the Belgian Act of May 2, 2007 on the disclosure of major participations in issuers of which shares are admitted to trading on a regulated market and regarding miscellaneous provisions, Oxurion NV (Euronext Brussels: OXUR) (the "Company" or "Oxurion"), announces the below information, following the issuance of 116,459,627 new ordinary shares on September 15, 2023, for a total amount of EUR 150,000, as the result of the conversion of 6 convertible bonds, pursuant to the Capital Commitment entered into with Atlas Special Opportunities, LLC. Following completion of the capital increase through the conversion of the convertible bonds, the total number of shares issued by Oxurion amounts to 2,667,771,604 outstanding ordinary shares carrying voting rights (compared to 2,551,311,977 outstanding ordinary shares previously). This number will be used as the denominator for the calculation of the percentages of shareholdings. Therefore, Oxurion publishes the following updated information: Share capital (EUR) 82,756,161.32 Total number of securities with voting rights (all ordinary shares) 2,667,771,604 Total number of ordinary shares (= denominator) 2,667,771,604 Number of outstanding, granted rights to subscribe to securities carrying voting rights not yet issued: 590,500 subscription rights ("SRs") issued on November 20, 2017, entitling their holders to subscribe to a total number of 590,500 securities carrying voting rights (all ordinary shares); 60,000 SRs issued on December 23, 2020, entitling their holders to subscribe to a total number of 60,000 securities carrying voting rights (all ordinary shares); 972,250 SRs issued on April 14, 2021, entitling their holders to subscribe to a total number of 972,250 securities carrying voting rights (all ordinary shares); 532,500 SRs issued on September 22, 2021, entitling their holders to subscribe to a total number of 532,500 securities carrying voting rights (all ordinary shares); 604,405 SRs issued on December 30, 2021, entitling their holders to subscribe to a total number of 604,405 securities carrying voting rights (all ordinary shares); 190 convertible bonds issued on March 14, 2023, April 20, 2023, May 22, 2023, June 15, 2023, August 10, 2023, and September 15, 2023, entitling its holder, Atlas Special Opportunities, LLC, to subscribe to a total number of securities carrying voting rights (all ordinary shares) in accordance with the terms and conditions of these convertible bonds pursuant to the Subscription Agreement entered into between the Company and Atlas Special Opportunities, LLC on March 1, 2023; and 100 convertible bonds issued on December 20, 2021, entitling their holders (Kreos Capital VI (UK) Limited, Pontifax Medison Finance (Israel) L.P. and Pontifax Medison Finance (Cayman) L.P.) to subscribe to a total number of securities carrying voting rights (all ordinary shares) in accordance with the terms and conditions of these convertible bonds as attached to the Agreement for the provision of a Loan Facility entered into between the Company, Kreos Capital VI (UK) Limited, Pontifax Medison Finance (Israel) L.P. and Pontifax Medison Finance (Cayman) L.P., on November 21, 2021 (as amended from time to time). END About Oxurion Oxurion (Euronext Brussels: OXUR) is a biopharmaceutical company developing next generation standard of care ophthalmic therapies, which are designed to improve and better preserve vision in patients with retinal disorders including diabetic macular edema (DME), the leading cause of vision loss in working-age people, as well as other conditions. Oxurion intends to play an important role in the treatment of retinal disorders, including the successful development of THR-149, its novel therapeutic for the treatment of DME. THR-149 is a potent plasma kallikrein inhibitor being developed as a potential new standard of care for the up to 50% of DME patients showing suboptimal response to anti-VEGF therapy. Oxurion is headquartered in Leuven, Belgium, with corporate operations in Boston, MA. More information is available at www.oxurion.com. Important information about forward-looking statements Certain statements in this press release may be considered "forward-looking". Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, and, accordingly, entail and are influenced by various risks and uncertainties. The Company therefore cannot provide any assurance that such forward-looking statements will materialize and does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or any other reason. Additional information concerning risks and uncertainties affecting the business and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement is contained in the Company's Annual Report. This press release does not constitute an offer or invitation for the sale or purchase of securities or assets of Oxurion in any jurisdiction. No securities of Oxurion may be offered or sold within the United States without registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or in compliance with an exemption therefrom, and in accordance with any applicable U.S. state securities laws. For further information please contact: Oxurion NV Tom Graney Chief Executive Officer Tel: +32 16 75 13 10 tom.graney@oxurion.com (mailto:tom.graney@oxurion.com) Michael Dillen Chief Business Officer Tel: +32 16 75 13 10 michael.dillen@oxurion.com (mailto:michael.dillen@oxurion.com) US Conway Communications Mary T. Conway m (mailto:mtconway@conwaycommsir.com)tconway (mailto:mtconway@conwaycommsir.com)@conwaycommsir.com (mailto:mtconway@conwaycommsir.com) 1Press releaseOxurion, 02/03/2023 Attachments CHICAGO, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- EV Charging Cable Market is projected to grow from USD 1.3 billion in 2023 to USD 3.9 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 16.7%, according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The Electric Vehicle (EV) charging cable market is currently undergoing a dynamic transformation driven by the rapid proliferation of electric vehicles. As the global consciousness shifts toward eco-friendly transportation and governments worldwide incentivize electric mobility, the demand for innovative charging solutions has reached unprecedented heights. This flourishing EV market owes its robust growth to a confluence of factors, including environmental awareness, infrastructure investments, and pioneering technological advancements reshaping the charging of electric vehicles. EV Charging cable demand also increases with growing EV adoption and setup of EV charging stations. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=71981137 Browse in-depth TOC on "EV Charging Cable Market". 160 - Tables 70 - Figures 280 - Pages EV Charging Cable Market Scope: Report Coverage Details Market Size USD 3.9 billion by 2030 Growth Rate 16.7% of CAGR Largest Market Asia Pacific Market Dynamics Drivers, Restraints, Opportunities & Challenges Forecast Period 2023-2030 Forecast Units Value (USD Billion) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered Diameter, Power Supply, Application, Cable Type, Charging Level, Shape, Jacket Material, Mode, Cable Length, Connector Type Geographies Covered Asia Pacific, Europe, North America Report Highlights Updated financial information / product portfolio of players Key Market Opportunities Technological advancements for EV charging cables Key Market Drivers Government policies & subsidies to accelerate setup of EV charging stations EV charging with AC power supply to be the largest market during the forecast period The AC segment is projected to claim the largest share, driven by the widespread adoption of Level 2 AC charging solutions in various regions. AC charging cables are used for charging electric vehicles in households and public places such as residential complexes, parking areas, commercial places, and working premises. AC chargers provide charging through a 120 V AC plug and require a dedicated circuit consisting of AC cables. The structure comprises a household three-prong plug on one end of the cord and a connector on the other end, which plugs into the vehicle. The charging equipment is portable and does not require installation. It is commonly used for home charging and in semi-public and private charging stations. In semi-public charging, AC normal charging stations can be found in workplaces, public parking lots, or shopping centers, and they require payment or membership to access. These charging stations offer a convenient way for EV drivers to top up their battery while carrying out daily activities and promote EV adoption. AC normal charging is often the primary method for private charging, allowing EV owners to charge their vehicles overnight and have a full battery in the morning. EV charging cables with GB/T connector compatilibty to be the largest market during the forecast period GB/T is expected to be the largest segment, whereas CCS 1 is expected to be the fastest growing segment during the forecast period. The GB/T DC connector is currently China's only rapid charging standard, with intentions to develop a next-generation connector in collaboration with CHAdeMO to generate 900 kW output power. With over 6.8 million EV sales, China's substantial market share is largely underpinned by GB/T connectors. Meanwhile, the CCS1 standard is expected to exhibit rapid growth, fueled by its continued dominance for non-Tesla EVs and charging networks across North America. With its stronghold in the US and Canada, CCS1 ensures seamless compatibility and interoperability, contributing to its projected ascent as the fastest-growing segment in the EV charging connector arena. The GB/T connector exhibits a two-pin arrangement for alternating (AC) charging and a three-pin configuration for direct (DC) charging. This flexibility enables it to accommodate a variety of charging capacities and power levels. Notably, the GB/T connector caters to AC and DC charging, making it suitable for various EV models. Its robust build and compatibility with varying charging voltages contribute to its widespread adoption. China's steadfast dedication to electric mobility, coupled with its status as a key market for electric vehicles, has propelled the expansion of the GB/T connector. Government backing for EV adoption and incentives for EV manufacturers to adopt the GB/T standard have further elevated its prominence. As China continues to exert a leadership role in the global EV market, the prevalence of the GB/T connector is anticipated to endure, shaping the charging infrastructure landscape not solely within China but also potentially influencing charging standards in neighboring regions. 'Asia Pacific to be the fastest growing market for EV Charging Cables during forecast period' The Asia Pacific region is expected to be the fastest-growing market for EV charging cables during the forecast period. According to data published by the China Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Promotion Alliance, from January to March period 2023, a total of 632,000 charging piles were added in China. The increasing development of charging stations will, in turn, boost the demand for EV charging cables. Most of the public charging stations in China install straight-shaped EV charging cables as these are easy to manufacture and exert less force compared to coiled-shaped EV charging cables. China has rapidly expanded its charging infrastructure to support the growing electric vehicle fleet. With over 1.76 million charging stations established nationwide, the country showcases its steadfast progress in constructing a comprehensive and accessible charging network that aligns with the principles of sustainable mobility. The State Grid Corporation of China initially dominated the charging station landscape, but the industry has witnessed a surge in private car manufacturers and energy suppliers entering the EV charging sector. The Indian government has shown a strong commitment to enhancing the EV charging infrastructure by declaring plans to set up 137 EV charging stations along National Highways. This initiative, backed by allocated funds, underscores the nation's dedication to promoting sustainable transportation solutions. In tandem, major corporations are making significant contributions to the expansion of charging networks. Tata Power unveiled an ambitious vision to establish 25,000 EV charging points across India within five years, while Shell announced its intent to deploy over 10,000 charging points by 2030. Notably, Ather Energy is expected to deploy 2,500 charging stations nationwide by the end of 2023, and Statiq has set an ambitious goal of installing 20,000 EV charging stations across India within the same timeframe. In Japan, Type 1 plugs are utilized for Level 1 & 2 Charging, and CHAdeMO is the standard for Level 3 Charging. Additionally, the majority of DC fast chargers in the country have imposed power limits. Overall, Japan's strategic initiatives, partnerships, and favorable policies are propelling the growth of the EV charging cable industry, positioning the country as a pivotal player in the global EV industry. South Korea's government policies further fuel the growth of the EV market and align with the burgeoning demand for charging cables. The continuation of the EV subsidy program under the Green Deal, extended support to both passenger and commercial EVs, and ambitious plans to elevate the charger-to-EV ratio to 50% by 2025 all reflect the nation's recognition of the surging demand for efficient and accessible EV charging infrastructure. Hyundai Motors' USD 16.1 billion investment in EV-related incentives serves as a testament to the escalating demand for electric vehicles and the charging infrastructure to support them. With South Korea setting a precedent through its remarkable charging infrastructure and supportive policies, the adoption of the CCS1 charging connector type underscores the nation's progressive approach to advancing electric mobility. Inquire Before Buying: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Enquiry_Before_BuyingNew.asp?id=71981137 Key Market Players: The EV charging cable companies are Leoni AG (Germany), Aptiv (Ireland), TE Connectivity (Switzerland), BESEN International Group (China), Dyden Corporation (Japan), among others. These companies manufacturers EV charging cables. These companies have set up R&D facilities and offer best-in-class products to their customers. Recent Developments: In April 2023, Leoni AG announced that it has changed its Business Group AM to the Automotive Cable Solutions (ACS) Division, underscoring the vital role of automotive cables within the company's cables segment. With a global network of ten facilities across seven countries and around 3,300 employees, ACS is a prominent supplier of standard automotive, special, and charging cables. In September 2022, Ravicab Cables Private Limited announced acquisition of Leoni Cable Solution India Private Limited (LCSI), Pune, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Leoni AG. This strategic move by Ravicab not only broadens its market presence but also extends its product offerings, establishing a seamless synergy with Ravicab's ambitious growth plans. The acquisition opens up exciting opportunities for investment and growth in the acquired business, setting the stage for a promising future in terms of development and expansion. In August 2022, Huber+Suhner partnered with South Korean EV charging system producer, SK Signet. Both companies will work together as part of this cooperation to further advance and encourage EV charging infrastructure innovation. In May 2022, Aptiv Plc announced its plan to acquire 85% of Intercable Automotive Solutions, a unit of Italy's Intercable. The deal, valued at USD 605.71 million, will grant Aptiv access to cutting-edge technology used in EVs. Intercable Automotive Solutions specializes in manufacturing high-voltage busbars capable of carrying substantially more electrical power than conventional cables. The unit operates manufacturing facilities in both Europe and Asia. In May 2022, Aptiv Plc announced its plan to acquire 85% of Intercable Automotive Solutions, a unit of Italy's Intercable. The deal, valued at USD 605.71 million, will grant Aptiv access to cutting-edge technology used in EVs. Intercable Automotive Solutions specializes in manufacturing high-voltage busbars capable of carrying substantially more electrical power than conventional cables. The unit operates manufacturing facilities in both Europe and Asia. Get 10% Free Customization on this Report: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestCustomizationNew.asp?id=71981137 Browse Adjacent Market: Automotive and Transportation Market Research Reports & Consulting Related Reports: EV Charging Station Market - Global Forecast to 2027 EV Cables Market - Global Forecast to 2028 Wireless Charging Market for Electric Vehicles - Global Forecast to 2027 Electric Commercial Vehicle Market - Global Forecast to 2030 About MarketsandMarkets: MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. 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. 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Contact: Mr. Aashish Mehra MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/ev-charging-cable-market.asp Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/ev-charging-cable.asp Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/660509/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/ev-charging-cable-market-worth-3-9-billion-by-2030---exclusive-report-by-marketsandmarkets-301930102.html Regulatory News: Following the devastating floods in Libya last week, TotalEnergies (Paris:TTE) (LSE:TTE) (NYSE:TTE) answered Libya's National Oil Corporation's call for support from the very first hours of the tragedy. The Company mobilized land and air logistical resources to provide emergency aid for the thousands of people affected by the disaster in the Derna region, in the east of the country. As of today, TotalEnergies has shipped nearly 50 tons of essential goods, comprising medical supplies, food parcels including baby food, personal hygiene kits and solar lamps. Further shipments of approximately 50 tons of essential goods are planned in the coming days This operation is carried out by a dedicated TotalEnergies team, in coordination with the National Oil Corporation and the Red Crescent, with shipments organized by truck from Tripoli and by plane from Paris. TotalEnergies in Libya TotalEnergies has been present in Libya since 1954. In 2022, the Company's production was 79,000 boe/d. This production comes from the offshore Al Jurf field (TotalEnergies, 37.5%), the El Sharara onshore area (TotalEnergies, 15% on block ex-NC 115 and 12% on Block ex-NC 186) and the Waha fields (TotalEnergies, 20.41%). About TotalEnergies TotalEnergies is a global multi-energy company that produces and markets energies: oil and biofuels, natural gas and green gases, renewables and electricity. Our more than 100,000 employees are committed to energy that is ever more affordable, cleaner, more reliable and accessible to as many people as possible. Active in nearly 130 countries, TotalEnergies puts sustainable development in all its dimensions at the heart of its projects and operations to contribute to the well-being of people. @TotalEnergiesTotalEnergiesTotalEnergiesTotalEnergies Cautionary Note The terms "TotalEnergies", "TotalEnergies company" or "Company" in this document are used to designate TotalEnergies SE and the consolidated entities that are directly or indirectly controlled by TotalEnergies SE. Likewise, the words "we", "us" and "our" may also be used to refer to these entities or to their employees. The entities in which TotalEnergies SE directly or indirectly owns a shareholding are separate legal entities. This document may contain forward-looking information and statements that are based on a number of economic data and assumptions made in a given economic, competitive and regulatory environment. They may prove to be inaccurate in the future and are subject to a number of risk factors. Neither TotalEnergies SE nor any of its subsidiaries assumes any obligation to update publicly any forward-looking information or statement, objectives or trends contained in this document whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Information concerning risk factors, that may affect TotalEnergies' financial results or activities is provided in the most recent Universal Registration Document, the French-language version of which is filed by TotalEnergies SE with the French securities regulator Autorite des Marches Financiers (AMF), and in the Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918233184/en/ Contacts: TotalEnergies Media Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 99 l presse@totalenergies.com l @TotalEnergiesPR Investor Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 46 l ir@totalenergies.com ATLANTA, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Revenue Analytics, a pioneering force in the revenue management space, is proud to announce the expansion of N2Pricing RMS into Europe. Headquartered in Barcelona, this expansion signifies our unwavering commitment to understanding and meeting the nuanced needs of European hoteliers. Revenue Analytics has a proven track record of success in the region, with over 350 properties in Europe currently utilizing N2Pricing. N2Pricing delivers above-property revenue management capabilities to a variety of property types, from 3-star hotels to 5-star resorts. It is a full-service RMS in a modern software package. In addition to the Barcelona headquarters, we will soon be establishing a satellite office in the United Kingdom. This expansion will strengthen our presence and accessibility across Europe, allowing us to better serve our clients in the region through localized support and market expertise. Joining the Revenue Analytics team and leading the expansion efforts is David Orensanz (Managing Director, Europe). David's extensive experience and deep industry knowledge will deepen our understanding of the unique needs of European hoteliers, ensuring seamless integration and delivering maximum value to our clients. David will be supported by a dedicated European Customer Success team, providing real-time support in local languages. "N2Pricing's expansion into Europe represents a significant milestone in our journey to empower the shift to true above-property Revenue Management," says Dax Cross, CEO. "We are dedicated to forging enduring client partnerships, delivering exceptional value, and fostering innovation within the European hospitality landscape." For more information on N2Pricing, visit revenueanalytics.com/hospitality/n2pricing. About Revenue Analytics Revenue Analytics invented yield management in 1984. Today, they're the brains behind N2Pricing - the first modern Revenue Management System for the hospitality industry. N2Pricing streamlines and automates revenue management across an entire portfolio of properties. These capabilities give revenue managers 50 hours back each month for high-impact work, so hoteliers can stop losing profit and start tapping their people's full potential. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210484/N2Pricing_is_expanding_to_Europe.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/revenue-analytics-n2pricing-rms-expands-to-europe-opens-barcelona-office-301927065.html NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Commerce Resources Corp. (TSXV:CCE)(FSE:D7H0) (the "Company" or "Commerce") is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement offering consisting of the issuance of up to 60,000,000 units (each, a "Unit") at a price of $0.08 per Unit for gross proceeds of up to $4,800,000 (the "Offering"). Each Unit will consist of one common share of the Company (each, a "Share") and one common share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"), with each Warrant entitling the holder to purchase one Share at a price of $0.12 per Share for a period of three (3) years from closing of the Offering (the "Closing"). The Company also announces that it has entered into a binding engagement agreement ("Term Sheet") with Churchill SIG Pty Ltd. ("Churchill"), whereby Churchill will act as exclusive lead manager, for a term of up to three (3) months, to introduce (the "Services") potential qualified subscribers to the Company in connection with a portion of the Offering (the "Churchill Portion"). Churchill will not provide the Services in Canada or for the benefit of Canadian residents, and any potential subscribers introduced by Churchill will not be residents of Canada. As consideration for the Services, and upon completion of the Offering, the Company has agreed to pay Churchill a cash fee (the "Cash Fee") equal to 5% of the amount raised under the Offering from persons introduced by Churchill, and to issue such number of non-transferable share purchase warrants (the "Finder's Warrants") that equals 15% of the total number of Units issued to persons introduced by Churchill under the Offering. Each Finder's Warrant will entitle the holder to acquire one additional common share (a "Finder's Warrant Share") in the capital of the Company at a price of $0.08 per Finder's Warrant Share for a period of two (2) years from the date of issuance of the Finder's Warrants. The Company has also agreed to pay for Churchill's reasonable fees and expenses in connection with the Services, up to $10,000. Churchill shall have a right of first refusal to act as lead manager in connection with any other equity offerings undertaken by the Company within a 12-month period following completion of the Offering. The Units, Shares, Warrants, Warrant Shares, Finder's Warrants and Finder's Warrant Shares are collectively referred to herein as the "Securities". Subject to completion of the Offering, and continuing until the date that is one (1) year after completion of the Offering, Churchill shall have the right to nominate up to two (2) persons to the board of directors of the Company. The Offering will be conducted pursuant to one or more prospectus exemptions available to the Company, including, without limitation, the "accredited investor" exemption set out in Section 2.3 of National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions and the prospectus exemption set out in BC Instrument 72-503 - Distribution of Securities Outside British Columbia. In addition to the fee payable to Churchill in connection with the Churchill Portion of the Offering, the Company may pay finders' fees consisting of cash, securities or a combination thereof to other parties in connection with the portion of the Offering that is not the Churchill Portion, all in accordance with the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange"). All securities issued in connection with the Offering will be subject to a statutory hold period expiring four months and one day after closing of the Offering. The Company and any subscribers may enter into a voluntary escrow agreement whereby any Shares or Warrant Shares issued under the Offering shall be deposited into escrow and release on the date that is one (1) year after the date that the Units are issued. Completion of the Offering, as well as the Term Sheet, payment of the Cash Fee and issuance of the Finder's Warrants, is subject to the approval of the Exchange. Any participation by insiders in the Offering will constitute a related party transaction under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101") but is expected to be exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101. The net proceeds from the sale of the Offering will be used towards the completion of a resource update and an updated Preliminary Economic Assessment for the Company's Ashram REE/ Fluorspar Deposit, as well as the production of commercially marketable samples of Rare Earth concentrates as requested by industry majors, for general working capital and to progress towards a listing on the Australian Stock Exchange. 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 Commerce Resources Corp. Commerce Resources Corp. is a junior mineral resource company focused on the development of the Ashram Rare Earth and Fluorspar Deposit located in Quebec, Canada. The Company is positioning to be one of the lowest cost rare earth producers globally, with a specific focus on being a long-term supplier of mixed rare earth carbonate and/or NdPr oxide to the global market. The Ashram Deposit is characterized by simple rare earth (monazite, bastnaesite, xenotime) and gangue (carbonates) mineralogy, a large tonnage resource at favourable grade, and has demonstrated the production of high-grade (>45% REO) mineral concentrates at high recovery (>70%) in line with active global producers. In addition to being one of the largest rare earth deposits globally, Ashram is also one of the largest fluorspar deposits globally and has the potential to be a long-term supplier to the met-spar and acid-spar markets. For more information, please visit the corporate website at www.commerceresources.com or email info@commerceresources.com. On Behalf of the Board of Directors COMMERCE RESOURCES CORP. " Chris Grove " Chris Grove CEO, President and Director Tel: 604.484.2700 Email: cgrove@commerceresources.com Web: http://www.commerceresources.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 Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the Services to be provided by Churchill, the expectations of management regarding the proposed Offering, the expectations of management regarding the use of proceeds of the Offering, closing conditions for the Offering, the expiry of hold periods for securities distributed pursuant to the Offering, that Exchange approval is required for the proposed Offering, that the Ashram deposit has the potential to become one of the largest fluorspar deposits and a long-term supplier to the mixed rare earth carbonate, NdPr oxide, and met-spar and acid-spar markets; and that the Company is positioning to be one of the lowest cost rare earth element producers globally. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance or developments to differ materially from those contained in the statements including that: the Company may not complete the Offering on terms favorable to the Company or at all; the Exchange may not approve the Offering; the proceeds of the Offering may not be used as stated in this news release; the Company may be unable to satisfy all of the conditions to the Closing; and those additional risks set out in the Company's public documents filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Except where required by law, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. SOURCE: Commerce Resources Corp. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784669/commerce-resources-corp-announces-private-placement-to-raise-gross-proceeds-of-up-to-4800000 SUZHOU, China, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- International Business School Suzhou (IBSS) at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University kicked off its 10th anniversary year with an alumni reunion on 9 September. More than 300 alumni, academic staff, and industry leaders gathered to celebrate the school's successes, including rising to be the largest English-language business school in China and earning the "Triple Crown" of accreditations (AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA) that only one percent of business schools worldwide have achieved. An award ceremony recognised three alumni who have made exceptional contributions to business, society and academia: Shaanxi province entrepreneur and investor Boyue Xing, who earned a BA in Business Administration in 2018, was named 2023 IBSS Alumni of the Year for his business leadership and achievements. HR leader Sirena Bai, who earned an International MBA in 2021, received the IBSS Alumni Outstanding Contribution Award for promoting collaborations between IBSS and AstraZeneca. Lenda Huo of Amoy Diagnostics, International MBA (2018), received the IMBA Best Ambassador Award for professionally mentoring current IMBA students and supporting the programme's recruitment efforts. The event included discussions led by panels of business and academic experts on digital business transformation, advancing gender diversity on corporate boards and in leadership, Generation Z in the workplace, and adapting and thriving in a global economy. In addition, industry executives and leaders discussed trends in finance, entrepreneurship, manufacturing, healthcare, sustainability, and cross-industry exchange. Alumni who attended the event described how studying at IBSS impacted them. 2019 International MBA graduate Kirsten Johnston is founder and CEO of branding agency JWDK, which she started in London and expanded to Shanghai and Hong Kong. In addition to boosting her accounting and finance control skills, IBSS gave her insights, she said: "As a foreigner, it was important to me to learn more about business in China and the cultural differences to how we do things in the UK." IBSS Alumni of the Year Award-winner Xing said that an entrepreneurship module left a deep impression on him. "It taught us that as entrepreneurs, we have a responsibility to society and should consider how our businesses can contribute beyond just pursuing profits," he said. "Having an entrepreneurial spirit is vital in business, and investing in social welfare can yield unexpected benefits for the company." Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2212699/Alumni_reunion_9_2023.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/international-business-school-suzhou-at-xjtlu-celebrates-10-years-with-alumni-event-301930222.html TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / PJX Resources Inc. ("PJX" or "the Company") is pleased to announce that, subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval, the Company intends to further extend the expiry dates of 9,350,400 share purchase warrants, (the "Warrants") by 12 months to October 5, 2024. The Warrants were issued pursuant to a private placement announced on September 21, 2020 and accepted for filing by the TSX Venture Exchange on October 6, 2020. The Warrants are exercisable at $0.20 per share and are currently set to expire on October 5, 2023. All other terms of the warrants, including the exercise price, remain unchanged. Upon receipt of the approval of the TSXV of the Warrant Extension, a material change report in respect of the Warrant Extension will be filed by the Company. A total of 920,000 of the affected Warrants are held by parties considered to be "related parties" of the Company. Therefore, the amendment of Warrants constitutes a "related party transaction" as contemplated by Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Shareholders in Special Transactions, and TSXV Policy 5.9 - Protection of Minority Shareholders in Special Transactions. However, the exemptions from formal valuation and minority approval requirements provided for by these guidelines can be relied upon as the fair market value of the Warrants held by insiders does not exceed 25% of the market capitalization of the Company. EXPLORATION UPDATE Exploration by PJX Resources this year continues to discover new zones of mineralisation almost every week on the Dewdney Trail Property. The district scale 107 km Dewdney Trail Property is in the Sullivan Mining District in a Tier 1 jurisdiction. Examples of mineralisation discovered to date include: Massive sulphide with anomalous copper, cobalt, silver and nickel in Proterozoic age sediments- possibly similar in style to Mt. Isa. A few kilometres to the south is stratigraphy with anomalous zinc and lead mineralisation disseminated and bedding conformable bands. About 3 kilometres further south and west are stacked bedding conformable gold bearing veins with grab samples up to 63 g/t gold. A further 1.5 km south are Iron-Oxide breccias with copper mineralisation. These mineralised zones all occur along a broad regional anticline that is intruded by alkalic/syenite porphyries and associated breccias that locally contain copper in the groundmass. Sheeted veins in the intrusions contain gold, copper and silver with one grab sample analysing 6.9 g/t gold, 447 g/t silver, and 1.1% copper. Field crews continue to explore additional targets including large areas with coincident airborne electromagnetic and magnetic anomalies that occur along the equivalent time horizon to the world class Sullivan zinc-lead-silver deposit located 25 km to the west. "The more we learn about the relationship of mineralisation to geology from surface exploration the greater our chance of discovering new deposits near surface and at depth when drilling", states John Keating, President of PJX. "We believe the significant amount and variety of mineralisation we are finding greatly supports the potential to make a major discovery and possibly multiple discoveries." Qualified Persons The foregoing geological disclosure has been reviewed and approved by John Keating P.Geo. (qualified persons for the purpose of National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects). Mr. Keating is the President, Chief Executive Officer, and a Director of PJX. About PJX Resources Inc. PJX is a mineral exploration company focused on building shareholder value and community opportunity through the exploration and development of mineral resources with a focus on gold, silver and base metals (zinc, lead, copper, nickel). PJX's primary properties are located in the historical Sullivan Mine District and Vulcan Gold Belt near Cranbrook and Kimberley, British Columbia. Please refer to our web site http://www.pjxresources.com for additional information. FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Linda Brennan, Chief Financial Officer (416) 799-9205 info@pjxresources.com Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information The information in this news release has been prepared as at the date noted above. Certain statements in this news release, referred to herein as "forward-looking statements", constitute "forward-looking statements" under the provisions of Canadian provincial securities laws. These statements can be identified by the use of words such as "expected", "may", "will" or similar terms. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of factors and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by PJX Resources Inc. as of the date of such statements, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, known and unknown, could cause actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Except as otherwise required by law, PJX Resources Inc. expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any such statements to reflect any change in PJX Resources Inc.'s expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based. Cautionary Note to US Investors: This news release may contain information about adjacent properties on which PJX Resources Inc. has no right to explore or mine. We advise U.S. investors that the SEC's mining guidelines strictly prohibit information of this type in documents filed with the SEC. U.S. investors are cautioned that mineral deposits on adjacent properties are not indicative of mineral deposits on our properties. This news release may contain forward-looking statements including but not limited to comments regarding the timing and content of upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, receipt of property titles, potential mineral recovery processes, etc. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements. This press release uses the terms "Measured", "Indicated", and "Inferred" resources. United States investors are advised that while such terms are recognized and required by Canadian regulations, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission does not recognize them. "Inferred Mineral Resources" have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence, and as to their economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of an Inferred Mineral Resource will ever be upgraded to a higher category. Under Canadian rules, estimates of Inferred Mineral Resources may not form the basis of feasibility or other economic studies. United States investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of Measured or Indicated Mineral Resources will ever be converted into Mineral Reserves. United States investors are also cautioned not to assume that all or any part of a Mineral Resource is economically or legally mineable. 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. SOURCE: PJX Resources Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784872/pjx-resources-proposes-extension-of-warrants-and-provides-exploration-update WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service or FSIS has warned against Hormel Foods Corp. Services, LLC's canned meat product due to under processing. The alert has been issued for 12-oz. metal cans containing 'SPAM Classic' with 'BEST BY AUG 2026' date and lot code A08173, produced on August 17. The product, with establishment number 'EST. 199' inside the USDA mark of inspection, were shipped to only H.E.B. retail locations in Texas. No other retailers are involved in the alert. The agency has given the public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware about the under processed product. A recall was not issued as the affected products are no longer available for purchase. The warning was given after the company reported that they inadvertently shipped product that may not have been adequately processed to reach commercial sterility. So far there have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. The agency noted that some product may be in consumers' refrigerators, and urged them to throw away or return to the place of purchase. In similar incidents, the FSIS previous week warned against Costco's ready-to-eat or RTE Kirkland Signature chicken tortilla soup product citing misbranding. In August, FSIS warned against certain ready-to-eat or RTE salads and wraps with meat and poultry due to concerns that may contain contaminated lettuce. For More Such Health News, visit rttnews.com 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. Based on customer feedback, G-P earns Global Employment Platform Leader, Employer of Record Leader, Contractor Management Leader and HR Compliance Leader badges, among others BOSTON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- REMOTE FIRST COMPANY, G-P (Globalization Partners) , the pioneer and recognized leader in the global employment industry, known for setting the standard in global employment compliance, today announced it was awarded 36 leader badges in G2's 2023 Fall Report, including Global Employment Platform Leader, Employer of Record Leader, Contractor Management Leader and HR Compliance Leader, among others. With methodology grounded in real customer feedback including reviews, customer satisfaction, and market presence, G2 reports provide an unbiased evaluation of top industry players. G-P's stellar performance speaks to the company's relentless focus on customer satisfaction and its vision for innovating to support companies' global workforces through global growth technology, a new category that will move the employer of record (EOR) innovator further into new territory. "At G-P, our customers are our compass, and we are committed to delivering innovative and customer-centric solutions that enable global growth for businesses and professionals worldwide," said Nicole Sahin, Founder and CEO of G-P. "We are immensely proud to be recognized as a leader across so many crucial categories in G2's Fall 2023 report. This achievement underscores our dedication to our customers and our relentless pursuit of excellence." G-P extends gratitude to its customers, partners, and dedicated team members for contributing to their continued success. Learn more about G-P's suite of global employment products here . About G-P G-P is the pioneer and recognized leader of the global employment industry and has delivered world-class global compliance and workforce products designed to meet the needs of growing companies since 2012. G-P's global growth platform is driven by the G-P MeridianTM Suite of SaaS-based global employment products. G-P helps thousands of customers build and manage teams quickly and compliantly in 180+ countries without navigating legal, tax or HR issues. G-P: Global Made Possible To learn more, please visit: g-p.com or connect with us via Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, or check out our Blog. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1913267/G_P_NEW_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/g-p-recognized-with-36-leader-badges-in-g2s-2023-fall-report-301929882.html Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Calibre Mining Corp. (TSX: CXB; OTCQX: CXBMF) (the "Company" or "Calibre") is pleased to announce an initial open pit Mineral Resource Estimate for its 100% owned Cerro Volcan Gold Deposit ("Volcan") located five kilometres from the Libertad processing facility. The Resource, which was not included in the Company's 2022 Mineral Resource statement, includes 508,000 tonnes of Indicated Mineral Resource averaging 1.83 g/t, yielding 30,000 ounces of gold and 1,788,000 tonnes of Inferred Mineral Resource averaging 2.28 g/t, yielding 131,000 ounces of gold. Combined, this average 2.0 g/t gold open pit deposit represents another opportunity given its proximity to the Libertad processing facility with in-excess of one million tonnes of surplus capacity. Requisite environmental permitting initiatives are underway with production anticipated in 2025. Darren Hall, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Calibre stated: "Since 2020, we have demonstrated the value of our operating strategy by responsibly permitting and developing satellite deposits to increase production utilizing existing processing infrastructure. We have self funded production growth of approximately 20% year over year, and grown reserves over 270% since acquiring the assets. With our installed infrastructure and surplus processing capacity and the economic value of our exploration successes, as demonstrated by Volcan, we expect to yield substantial returns while contributing to a promising future." Tom Gallo, Senior Vice President, Growth stated: "Our exploration team has had tremendous success in identifying economic deposits including the high-grade Panteon North deposit employing modern geoscience initiatives, absent of surface artisanal miners. Volcan is an excellent example of how the team used this concept to make a novel discovery without any meaningful past artisanal production. I am encouraged by additional geoscience indicators that appear similar to Volcan, situated across the Libertad property and we look forward to results from these exciting new targets that surround our under-utilized Libertad mill. Two target areas, Calvario and Salvadorita contain high-grade surface samples including 21.2g/t Au, 14.2g/t Au, 9.9g/t Au, 34.2 and 15.0g/t Au as seen in the accompanying figures." About Cerro Volcan Gold Deposit Volcan is a vein trend located approximately five kilometres south of the Libertad mill. It is one of several sub-parallel vein structures that extend across the highly prospective Cosmatillo area, a zone of widespread epithermal style hydrothermal alteration. The vein trends north-east to south-west, consistent with past producing vein trends in the Libertad district, most notably, Mahon. Today's announcement follows the successful 2021 and 2022 exploration and drill campaigns at the Company's Libertad concessions (see news releases dated November 16, 2021 (https://www.calibremining.com/site/assets/files/6797/20211116_libertad_exploration_volcan_trend_final.pdf) and June 8, 2021 (https://www.calibremining.com/site/assets/files/6740/2021-06-08_cxb_ll_exploration_update.pdf)). The Libertad district has produced approximately two million ounces of gold. Link 1 - Figures (https://www.calibremining.com/site/assets/files/7305/20230916_volcan_mineral_resource_news_release_figures_final.pdf) Quality Assurance/Quality Control Calibre maintains a Quality Assurance/Quality Control ("QA/QC") program for all its exploration projects using industry best practices. Key elements of the QA/QC program include verifiable chain of custody for samples, regular insertion of certified reference standards and blanks, and duplicate check assays. Drill core is halved and shipped in sealed bags to Bureau Veritas in Managua, Nicaragua, an independent analytical services provider with global certifications for Quality Management Systems ISO 9001:2008, Environmental Management: ISO14001 and Safety Management OH SAS 18001 and AS4801. Prior to analysis, samples are prepared at Veritas' Managua facility and then shipped to its analytical facility in Vancouver, Canada. Gold analyses are routinely performed via fire assay/AA finish methods. For greater precision of high-grade material, samples assaying 10 g/t Au or higher are re-assayed by fire assay with gravimetric finish. Analyses for silver and other elements of interest are performed via Induction Coupled Plasma (ICP). Qualified Person The scientific and technical information contained in this news release was approved by David Schonfeldt P.Geo, Calibre Mining's Corporate Chief Geologist and a "Qualified Person" under National Instrument 43-101. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD "Darren Hall" Darren Hall, President, and Chief Executive Officer For further information, please contact: Ryan King Senior Vice President, Corporate Development & IR T: (604) 628-1012 E: calibre@calibremining.com (mailto:calibre@calibremining.com) W: www.calibremining.com (http://www.calibremining.com) About Calibre Mining Corp. Calibre Mining is a Canadian-listed, Americas focused, growing mid-tier gold producer with a strong pipeline of development and exploration opportunities across Nevada and Washington in the USA, and Nicaragua. Calibre is focused on delivering sustainable value for shareholders, local communities and all stakeholders through responsible operations and a disciplined approach to growth. With a strong balance sheet, a proven management team, strong operating cash flow, accretive development projects and district-scale exploration opportunities Calibre will unlock significant value. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Information This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements in this news release that address events or developments that we expect to occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are identified by words such as "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "project", "target", "potential", "schedule", "forecast", "budget", "estimate", "intend" or "believe" and similar expressions or their negative connotations, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could", "should" or "might" occur. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to: the Company's expectations toward higher grades mined and processed going forward; statements relating to the Company's 2023 priority resource expansion opportunities; the Company's metal price and cut-off grade assumptions. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve assumptions, risks, and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond Calibre's control. For a listing of risk factors applicable to the Company, please refer to Calibre's annual information form ("AIF") for the year ended December 31, 2022, and its management discussion and analysis ("MD&A") for the year ended December 31, 2022, all available on the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect Calibre's forward-looking statements such as potential sanctions implemented as a result of the United States Executive Order 13851 dated October 24, 2022. Calibre's forward-looking statements are based on the applicable assumptions and factors management considers reasonable as of the date hereof, based on the information available to management at such time. Such assumptions include but are not limited to: the Company being able to mine and process higher grades and keep production costs relatively flat going forward; there not being an increase in production costs as a result of any supply chain issues or ongoing COVID-19 restrictions; there being no adverse drop in metal price or cut-off grade at the Company's Nevada properties. Calibre 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 securities laws. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. CANNES, France, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brunswick Corporation, (NYSE: BC), reported another record-setting display at the 2023 Cannes Yachting Festival, one of the premier trade shows in Europe, with outboard engine market share gains, major new product launches, and a global product award. Mercury Marine set another record for engine share at the event, with 66% of the outboard engines on display, further solidifying its market share leadership position in Europe. This also marks the third consecutive year that Mercury has set record share in Cannes as demand continues to be strong for high horsepower Mercury propulsion from European boat builders and consumers. In addition, Brunswick Boat Group launched Navan, its new premium adventure boat brand which is part of the Quicksilver family, and the first two models in the Navan line-up, the C30 and S30. Both models were extremely well received by the public with orders exceeding expectations during the show and strong dealer enthusiasm to carry the product. Sea Ray, Boston Whaler, Navico Group, and the Company's newest acquisition, Flite, all had displays at the event and many Brunswick products made their European debuts, including the Mercury Racing 500R, Boston Whaler 405 Conquest, Heyday H22, Sea Ray Sundancer 370, SLX400, SLX 260, and many more. Quicksilver and Veer boats with Avator electric outboard engines were also displayed during the show and on the water during a two-day Brunswick media event which involved more than 30 journalists from around the world. "Cannes continues to be a very important show for our brands and Brunswick again had an outstanding event with more Mercury engines on display than ever before as well as an enthusiastic response from our channel partners to our Navan launch," said Dave Foulkes, Brunswick Corporation CEO. "Our premium boat models including the Boston Whaler 405 Conquest and the Sea Ray 370 Sundancer received high interest during the show and the response to all our products from consumers, media, and dealers during the event was very strong and a testament to our continued growth in Europe." It was also an award-winning show for Brunswick as the Sea Ray SPX 210 won the Moteur Boat Magazine Award for best boat below 7 meters while four other Brunswick boat models were named finalists for the prestigious Best of Boats award that will be announced later this year. The Bayliner M19 and Quicksilver 805 Open are finalists in the "Best for Beginners" category, and the Navan C30 and Sea Ray SLX 260 are finalists in the "Best for Fun" category. Additionally, Brunswick's Freedom Boat Club, Sea Ray, Boston Whaler, Navico Group and Mercury Marine teams hosted the annual Women on the Water (WOW) event celebrating the outstanding achievements of women in Brunswick and the broader industry, and the importance and encouragement of greater diversity within the marine industry. ABOUT BRUNSWICK HOUSTON, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ENGIE Energy Marketing (ENGIE) today announced an innovative agreement to provide renewable energy to cover the consumption of select Microsoft data centers in Texas. By utilizing existing renewable energy contracts between the two companies, this collaboration will accelerate Microsoft's mission to transition to 100% carbon-free energy on an hourly basis by 2030. This customized agreement will allow Microsoft, one of the world's largest purchasers of renewable energy, to match ERCOT data center load with clean power. ENGIE, a leading developer and owner of renewable power capacity, will source the energy from their portfolio of wind, solar and battery projects in Texas. Microsoft is recognized as a leader in the industry with the 100/100/0 goal which aims to have 100% of electricity consumption, 100% of the time, matched by carbon-free energy purchases by 2030. With this deal in Texas, ENGIE is providing direct support of Microsoft's ambition to drive grid decarbonization. ENGIE is well positioned to deliver on Microsoft's ambition through its integrated approach - from building and operating renewable energy generation and storage assets to sourcing power through its global energy management activities. "Microsoft continues to be a leader in the market for corporate renewable energy procurement and a key alliance for ENGIE in the Net Zero energy transition," said Ken Robinson, ENGIE Energy Marketing N.A. President and CEO. "We are proud to help them achieve their ambitions, where many other companies continue to struggle. Our goal is to grow our 24x7 hourly carbon-free matching program in key markets with electricity generated from zero carbon energy sources including wind and solar." "We are excited that this project has kicked off and will provide us meaningful insight into future hourly carbon free program design," said Adrian Anderson, Microsoft General Manager, Renewables and Carbon Free Energy. "We look forward to working with ENGIE to meet our 100/100/0 goals." ### About the ENGIE Group The ENGIE Group (made up of ENGIE S.A. and its subsidiaries and affiliates) is a global leader in low-carbon energy and services. With its 96,000 employees, its customers, partners and stakeholders, the Group is committed to accelerate the transition toward a carbon-neutral world, through reduced energy consumption and more environmentally-friendly solutions. Inspired by its purpose ("raison d'etre"), ENGIE reconciles economic performance with a positive impact on people and the planet, building on its key businesses (gas, renewable energy, services) to offer competitive solutions to its customers. ENGIE S.A. (ENGI), is listed on the Paris and Brussels Stock Exchanges. In North America, ENGIE companies have delivered integrated, innovative energy solutions to public and private organizations for nearly half a century. We employ approximately 3,000 people focused on enabling our customers to become more sustainable and achieve their decarbonization targets through expert project delivery and competitive solutions. For more information on ENGIE in North America, please visit our LinkedIn page or Twitter feed, https://www.engie-na.com/ and https://www.engie.com. VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Musk Metals Corp. ("Musk Metals" or the "Company") (CSE:MUSK)(OTC PINK:EMSKF)(FSE:1I30) is pleased to announce that it has commenced remote sensing work on two lithium properties, the Pontax South and Ile Interdite, strategically located in James Bay, Quebec. Description of Pontax South and Ile Interdite Properties Regional Setting The Pontax South property consists of 105 claims covering 5,603 hectares (56 km2) and immediately adjacent to the south to Li-Ft Power Ltd.'s Pontax project which contains the most extensive Lithium anomaly within Li-Ft's Quebec portfolio. The Pontax South Property is also 60 km southwest of Stria Lithium's Pontax project and 90 km southwest of Brunswick Exploration Inc.'s Anatacau West project. The Causabiscau Shear Zone transects the Pontax South property over 16 km and another regional Shear Zone, oriented E-W, crosscuts the property over 6 km. Many Lithium deposits and occurrences are closely and spatially associated to shear zones, evidencing entrapment, and tend to form at or near the contact of mafic, ultramafic or amphibolite rocks which are reported at Pontax South. Figure 1: Pontax South Property The Ile Interdite property consists of 20 claims covering 1,089 hectares (10.9 km2) and extends over 5 km along the Nottaway River Shear Zone, a prominent regional structure that can be followed over 200 km. Ile Interdite is near the contact between the Nemiscau Sedimentary and the Opatica Pluto-Volcanic Sub-Provinces, consisting of paragneiss and amphibolite rocks. The Ile Interdite property hosts an important beryl showing that was identified in the 1960's by the same group of Quebec government geologists who reported spodumene at both Whabouchi and Cyr deposit's locations. Beryl is a relatively rare pathfinder mineral for lithium, often observed in pegmatites. At Ile Interdite, beryl is disseminated in a pegmatite. Figure 2: Ile Interdite Property Satellite Imagery Study The remote sensing work is expected to be completed by end of November 2023 and will consist of establishing spectral signatures for direct identification of lithium-bearing minerals that have distinctive emission bands in the thermal spectrum. Lithium-bearing minerals, such as spodumene, are difficult to identify visually and to distinguish from common rock forming silicate minerals on the field. The Company intends to complete a satellite imagery study using Worldview satellites constellation with panchromatic data up to 31 cm in resolution and multispectral data with 1.24 m resolution. Algorithms will be applied on these images in order to unfold pegmatites and/or swarms of pegmatites that can take the shape of flat-lying or variably dipping dykes, pods, tabular and lenticular-shaped bodies. The information will be transferred to a GIS system and a series of maps at scale 1:5,000 will be generated. Precise satellite image interpreted pegmatites will be correlated with existing data for generating targeted areas that will be followed up on the field in the upcoming pegmatite sampling program in the summer of 2024. Next steps to establish Musk Metals will carry out an airborne geophysical survey that will allow to link regional shear, faults, and dilational zones with satellite imagery targeted areas for outlining accurate pegmatite prospecting and potential mineralization traps. Pluto Property Further to its news releases dated October 27, 2021, January 25, 2022, and June 14, 2022, Musk has granted an option for Jinhua Capital Corp. to earn up to a 100% interest in 54 mineral claims constituting the Pluto Property, located in the Dolomieu and Daubree Townships of Quebec. Qualified Person: Benoit Moreau (P.Eng) is a Qualified Person ("QP") as defined by National Instrument 43-101 guidelines, and he has reviewed and approved the technical content of this news release. 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. The Company's properties are in the "Allison Lake Batholith" of Northwestern Ontario, and the "Chapais-Chibougamau", "Abitibi", and "James Bay" regions of Quebec. 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 & Director For more information on Musk Metals, please contact: Phone: 604-717-6605 Corporate e-mail: info@muskmetals.ca Website: www.muskmetals.ca Corporate Address: 2905 - 700 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, BC, V7Y 1C6 FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This 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. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784867/musk-metals-begins-remote-sensing-work-on-pontax-south-and-ile-interdite-lithium-properties-in-james-bay-quebec MONACO, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Elegance is the word while visiting the Monaco Classic Week. Everything at this event dedicated to heritage yachting talks about the 'art de vivre la mer', the Yacht Club de Monaco's motto which contains appreciation and passion for the sea.The same values are shared by Allegra Gucci and her 'Creole'. The three masters schooner designed by Charles Nicholson and built in Camper & Nicholson in 1927 doesn't go unseen. In the Eighties she caught the eye of Maurizio Gucci who fell in love with her. And the rest is history. "The Creole came into our family for the passion that my father had for sailing and, especially, when he saw the Creole, that at the time was not really in a perfect condition, I would say more or less a wreck, he fell in love with her lines because she's absolutely magnifique. He then decided to start this massive restoration, which lasted 4-5 years and after that we can say the Creole has seen a new life where she started sailing for the whole Mediterranean and the world, besides taking part and at the Classic Week of course," explains Allegra Gucci. Allegra is Maurizio Gucci and Patrizia Reggiani's daughter and owner of the over 65-meter long classic boat. The Creole has a double planking hull, a surface of sailing that is a thousand square meters and a draft of 5 meters and a half. Alongside the impressive schooner there are 130 boats, including some forty classic sailing yachts, around sixty vintage motorboats and a 20-strong fleet of Dinghy 12', moored at the YCM Marina for the event. "These wonderful boats are the result of the passion of the owner and it's like keeping on the heritage," adds Allegra Gucci. When thinking about elegance at sea the mind immediately runs to the Italian shipyard established in Sarnico, Riva. At the Classic Week an exceptional fleet of around thirty Rivas, mahogany wooden runabouts of the 1950s, went on display. "The bond between Riva and Montecarlo goes a long way back in time. Since my father came here and with Prince Ranieri they decided to dug a tunnel into the rock and to build floating pontoons in the beautiful bay of Port Hercules," says Lia Riva, daughter of shipyard founder Carlo. A roaring armada of vintage motorboats, led by the Riva family's 'Lipicar',criss-crossed the bay and sailed close to the shore, much to the pleasure of spectators. "Every two years the Yacht Club organizes the Classic Week. Since this year is the centenary of the birth of Prince Ranieri, the Rivas are 'a l' honneur', as they say here, precisely because they were the boats used by Ranieri himself and his family. We have some beautiful photos all onboard the Aquarama, the Tritone, which they owned, and they also had a smaller boat, a Super Florida," she recalls. Considered pure gems in the yachting world, the 60 motorboats deployed all their charms under blue skies and sunshine, their meticulous varnish glinting in the light during a memorable outing as they wove their way through the sailing yachts. For more information: Press Office LaPresse - ufficio.stampa@lapresse.it A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e30458b2-b8e7-4a7b-aa45-5846d0fe48d1 A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b7382287-2b0b-40ac-a869-72f825e7286f Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 18, 2023) - Golden Tag Resources Ltd. (TSXV: GOG) (OTCQB: GTAGF) (FSE: GTD) ("Golden Tag" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the commencement of drilling at its 100% owned La Parrilla Silver Mine Complex (the "La Parrilla Complex"), located 76 kilometres southeast of Durango, Mexico. Greg McKenzie, President and CEO stated, "The Golden Tag team is excited to have drilling now underway at the recently acquired La Parrilla Complex, a silver mine with a long history of production and profitability which hosts significant in-place infrastructure including a 2,000 tpd processing facility. This initial phase of drilling is designed to increase the Inferred Resource base at the Project and is the first step in our goal of restarting production at the La Parrilla Complex." The 7,000-metre ("m") Phase 1 drill program will focus on infill and step-out drilling in proximity to underground mining infrastructure and existing development in three key areas: Rosarios and Cuerpo 340 Veins - 3,000 m of drilling to test the east, west and central down-dip extensions. Figure 1 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/1837/180946_240a32c994596a88_001full.jpg The Rosarios vein strikes north 70 degrees () west on average, dips at 64 to the northeast and has a known strike length of 2,000 m. The mineralization extends vertically for 900 m, and its thickness varies from 0.2 to 14 m. The vein sits roughly at the northern contact of the granodiorite stock and the limestone. The vein pinches and swells; economic grades can occur either at the footwall or at the hangingwall of the main controlling structure. Stockwork zones are developed either at the footwall or hangingwall of the vein; vein splays, such as Cuerpo 340, and replacements are typically developed at the hangingwall. Quebradillas Underground - 3,000 m of drilling to test the strike and down-dip extensions of three key zones including Cuerpo 460, Norte-Sur, and San Nicolas. Figure 2 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/1837/180946_240a32c994596a88_002full.jpg The Cuerpo 460 Replacement vein strikes north 16 west on average, dips at 63 to the northeast, and has a known strike length of 425 m. The zone is mineralized for a vertical extent of 570 m, and its thickness varies from 0.1 to 8.5 m. The replacement body is hosted by the Indidura Formation and is concordant to bedding planes. The Norte-Sur vein strikes north 45 west on average, dips at 71 to the northeast and has a known strike length of 125 m. The vein is mineralized for a vertical extent of 465 m, and its thickness varies from 0.25 to 5.0 m. The structure is a fault-vein hosted by the Indidura Formation and the granodiorite stock, with replacement bodies developed at its footwall and hangingwall. The San Nicolas vein strikes north 25 west on average, dips at 70 to the northeast and has a known strike length of 525 m. The vein is mineralized for a vertical extent of 470 m, and its thickness varies from 0.3 to 1.8 m. The vein shows open-space mineralization textures with small splays of massive sulphides in its hangingwall. It is hosted by Indidura Formation and it is oxidized in its upper 100 m. San Marcos - 1,000 m of drilling to test the extension of San Marcos and Cuerpo 1100 at depth. Figure 3 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/1837/180946_240a32c994596a88_003full.jpg The San Marcos vein strikes north 20 west on average, dips at 60 to the northeast and has a known strike length of 650 m. The vein is mineralized for a vertical extent of 350 m, and its thickness varies from 0.5 to 17 m. The structure is a fault-vein that marks the eastern contact of the granodiorite stock with the Indidura Formation, and it is concordant with bedding. The structure pinches and swells, reaching its maximum thickness in flexure zones along strike where it generally develops cymoid loops. The Cuerpo 1100 vein strikes north 50 west on average, dips at 75 to the northeast and has a known strike length of 500 m. The vein is mineralized for a vertical extent of 430 m, and its thickness varies from 0.5 to 1.5 m. The structure is a fault-vein that pinches and swells and is hosted by the Indidura Formation and the granodiorite stock. The vein is oxidized in the upper 150 m and it usually develops mineralized stockwork. The Company looks forward to sharing the results of the Phase 1 drill program as soon as assay results are available. Qualified Person In accordance with NI 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, Bruce Robbins, PGeo, is the Qualified Person for the Company and has validated and approved the technical and scientific content of this news release. About Golden Tag Resources Golden Tag Resources Ltd. is focused on advanced stage silver projects located in Durango, Mexico. Golden Tag recently completed the acquisition of the La Parrilla Silver Mine Complex, a prolific complex which is comprised of five underground mines and a past producing open pit that collectively produced 34.3 million silver-equivalent ounces between 2005 and 2019. The Company also holds the San Diego Project which is among the largest undeveloped silver assets in Mexico. For more information regarding the Company and its projects, please visit our website at www.goldentag.ca. For additional information, please contact: Greg McKenzie, President & CEO Ph: 416-504-2024 greg.mckenzie@goldentag.ca Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: Certain statements in this news release are forward-looking and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking statements are within the meaning of the phrase 'forward-looking information' in the Canadian Securities Administrators' National Instrument 51-102 - Continuous Disclosure Obligations. Forward-looking statements are not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements that describe the Company's future plans, objectives or goals, including words to the effect that the Company or management and Qualified Persons (in the case of technical and scientific information) expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as "believes", "anticipates", "expects", "estimates", "may", "could", "would", "will", or "plan". Since forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Although these statements are based on information currently available to the Company, the Company provides no assurance that actual results will meet management's expectations. Risks, uncertainties and other factors involved with forward-looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, the future exploration performance at La Parrilla, the timing and extent of the drill program, the ability to increase Mineral Resources therein, and the ability to eventually place the La Parrilla Complex back into production. In making the forward-looking statements included in this news release, the Company and Qualified Persons (in the case of technical and scientific information) has applied several material assumptions, including that the Company's financial condition and development plans do not change because of unforeseen events, that future metal prices and the demand and market outlook for metals will remain stable or improve, management's ability to execute its business strategy and no unexpected or adverse regulatory changes with respect to La Parrilla. Forward-looking statements and information are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the ability of the Company to control or predict, that may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied thereby, and are developed based on assumptions about such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out herein, including, but not limited to, there being no assurance that the Company's future exploration programs will grow the Mineral Resource base or upgrade Mineral Resource confidence, the risk that the assumptions referred to above prove not to be valid or reliable, the risk that the Company is unable to achieve its goal of placing La Parrilla back into production; market conditions and volatility and global economic conditions including increased volatility and potentially negative capital raising conditions resulting from the continued or escalation of the COVID-19 pandemic, risk of delay and/or cessation in planned work or changes in the Company's financial condition and development plans; risks associated with the interpretation of data (including in respect of third party mineralized material) regarding the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits, the uncertainty of the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits and the risk of unexpected variations in Mineral Resources, grade and/or recovery rates; risks related to gold, silver and other commodity price fluctuations; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; availability and increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour, the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses and permits and the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining, including the Mexican mining reforms; risks relating to environmental regulation and liability; the possibility that results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations. Such forward-looking information represents managements and Qualified Persons (in the case of technical and scientific information) best judgment based on information currently available. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed, and actual future results may vary materially. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180946 MTN standardises on Eseye's Integra platform for its next generation global eSIM IoT solution Enables MTN to sell IoT services (connectivity, IoT bundles, IoT verticals, and value-added services) JOHANNESBURG and GUILDFORD, England, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MTN South Africa, the subsidiary of MTN Group, Africa's largest mobile network operator, announced that it has signed a multi-year agreement with global IoT connectivity solutions provider Eseye that will see it standardise on a global eSIM and IoT platform solution. MTN South Africa provides voice, data, fintech, digital, enterprise, wholesale and API services to 36.5 million customers. Looking to bolster and enhance existing IoT SIM management capabilities, MTN was looking for a Connectivity Management Platform to complete its customer offering with the management of eSIMs, Global SIMS and have a multi-IMSI capability. Following a rigorous and thorough tendering process, Eseye's Integra IoT Platform for MNOs was selected to power the next-generation MTN IoT connectivity solution, which will see millions of IoT devices onboarded and connected. Through Eseye, MTN will provide multi-dimensional solutions that go beyond connectivity management to deliver on a range of IoT value added services. Lawrence Juku, Head of IoT Solutions at MTN Business comments: "Our mission is to be Africa's leading digital platform, unlocking economic growth through financial and digital solutions for consumers and businesses of all sizes. We aim to create a marketplace that supports digital economies through affordable, inclusive, simple and comprehensive services. Our strategic partnership with Eseye will enable us to sell diverse IoT services such as connectivity, IoT bundles, and value-added services to help our customers meet their IoT global needs." Juku continues, "Eseye's deep IoT connectivity platform technical expertise will serve MTN well in the future. Our new IoT Connectivity Management Platform, powered by Eseye, will enable us to meet our aggressive IoT connectivity goals, and deliver differentiated services across different IoT verticals." The agreement will see Eseye's Integra solution deployed in South Africa, with the aim of expanding the solution to 18 operating companies across Africa. It will allow the different operating companies to evolve and utilise the solution to meet their own requirements and specific market needs. This involves integration with MTN's current infrastructure, utilising Eseye's deep engineering expertise and experience in deploying rapid IoT solutions to meet MTN's global needs, and supporting customers with pan-African IoT deployments. Moving forward MTN will have the capability to support customers with new IoT device connections, both across Africa and internationally. It will also deliver a future-proofed solution that allows for technology evolution and compliance with new standards and regulations. Nick Earle, CEO, Eseye comments: "We are proud to be awarded this multi-year agreement with MTN, which is a significant contract for Eseye and demonstrates the calibre of not only our technology, but also our IoT expertise. This contract involves a complex technical process and we have already invested a huge amount of work in the technical project set-up phase, which will be ongoing for the foreseeable months. MTN chose Eseye because it had confidence in our ability to deliver, having done so for other global MNOs, and our technical know-how combined with our hardware, connectivity, software and end-to-end IoT services expertise, which is second to none in the market. We're delighted that MTN, as one of our longest serving partners, has put its trust in Eseye to deliver a new global eSIM and IoT Platform that will help their customers achieve their extended IoT goals. Work is already well underway, and we are excited for what the future holds." Eseye offers end-to-end IoT connectivity solutions including a unique blend of hardware and solution architecture expertise, device design services, and hardware proof of concepts, combined with its multi-carrier and resilient IoT connectivity capabilities, deployment services, and long-term device design, software, and hardware support services. Additionally, Eseye provides advanced SIM technology, connectivity managed services, as well as specialist IoT routers and software to optimise connectivity for remote devices. ABOUT ESEYE As a world leader in IoT connectivity solutions, Eseye applies deep IoT device expertise to help businesses realise lasting value from global projects. We work closely with customers from idea to implementation and beyond, to deliver near-100% connectivity to millions of devices across the world. We see IoT differently. We always start with the device. Taking this approach, we have delivered successful projects across all industries for global brands such as Shell, Costa, BT, and Amazon. Our advanced range of IoT connectivity solutions and services has been further strengthened by our acknowledgement as a Visionary in the Gartner 2023 Magic Quadrant for Managed IoT Connectivity Services market, Worldwide. Nobody does end-to-end IoT better. Learn more: www.eseye.com ABOUT MTN Launched in 1994, the MTN is a leading emerging market operator with a clear vision to lead the delivery of a bold new digital world to our customers. We are inspired by our belief that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern connected life. The MTN is listed on the JSE Securities Exchange in South Africa under the share code 'MTN'. Our strategy is Ambition 2025: Leading digital solutions for Africa's progress. www.mtn.com View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/mtn-awards-multi-year-iot-connectivity-platform-contract-to-eseye-301930499.html WASHINGTON, DC / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / The Wells Fargo Foundation has awarded $1.4 million in grants to Rebuilding Together, the leading national nonprofit organization repairing the homes of people in need and revitalizing communities nationwide. Through the 2023 Wells Fargo Builds program, this effort will support essential home repairs and safety modifications for up to 90 homes in 49 communities across the U.S. for veterans, older adults and other neighbors in need. "Today, one in six Americans lives in an economically-distressed zip code. At Rebuilding Together, our work goes beyond the completion of home repairs - we are dedicated to transforming the lives of homeowners and their families," said Caroline Blakey, President and CEO of Rebuilding Together. "The impact is profound and enduring, touching every aspect of their daily lives. By providing safe and accessible homes, we empower individuals, restore hope and foster a sense of belonging within their communities." The nationwide effort kicked off in Charlotte, North Carolina when approximately 80 volunteers from Wells Fargo, Rebuilding Together and the community came out to repair four homes in the beloved Hidden Valley community. Rebuilding Together of Greater Charlotte received a $50,000 grant to provide transformative repairs such as installing handrails and grab bars, full roof replacements, remodeling floors and more to ensure safe, secure and accessible homes. "Homeownership provides family stability and an opportunity to build generational wealth, yet far too many people are living in homes that are in disrepair or are not equipped to meet their changing mobility needs around the home," said Stacy Spann, head of Housing Access and Affordability Philanthropy at Wells Fargo. "Through our long-standing collaboration with Rebuilding Together, we're helping to restore and renovate distressed properties so families, veterans and older adults can remain in their homes and communities they love." Since 2010, Wells Fargo has donated more than $18 million to Rebuilding Together and its affiliates to support rebuilding efforts across the country, including providing essential home repairs, revitalizing communities, and helping veterans, older adults, people with disabilities, families with children and victims of disaster remain in their homes. Photos and B-roll from the September 13 Charlotte kick-off event can be found here. Rebuilding Together Rebuilding Together is the leading national nonprofit organization repairing the homes of people in need and revitalizing our communities. Through its national network of affiliates, Rebuilding Together works proactively and collaboratively with community leaders, long-term residents, funders and volunteers to foster dialogue and create safe, healthy communities across the country. Learn more and get involved atrebuildingtogether.org. Wells Fargo, Rebuilding Together and the community came out to repair four homes in the beloved Hidden Valley community. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Wells Fargo on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Wells Fargo Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/wells-fargo Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Wells Fargo View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/785050/rebuilding-together-announces-14-million-grant-from-wells-fargo-to-repair-homes-in-distressed-neighborhoods Industry Veteran Brent Hollowell Takes Helm as General Manager to Support Expansion STOCKHOLM, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Volumental, the world's leading FitTech platform for recommending perfect fitting shoes, announces its strategic expansion into North America, reinforcing its commitment to meet growing global demand. To spearhead this expansion, Volumental appoints current CMO and seasoned footwear industry veteran Brent Hollowell as General Manager for the North American operations. "The establishment of a North American presence is driven by escalating demand for Volumental's unique omnichannel fit solutions from top global footwear retailers and brands," notes Alper Aydemir, Volumental's CEO. "Brent's extensive experience, including senior leadership roles at Foot Locker, adidas, and Fleet Feet, and his deep understanding of our product value, positions us to effectively serve this critical region." The North American expansion closely follows Volumental's recent foray into China, targeting the burgeoning APAC market. Aydemir emphasizes, "Given the US's status as our largest market, and our continuous expansion of mission-critical technology products and services, establishing a local presence is ideal for supporting our upcoming pilots and rollouts." Volumental's groundbreaking technology provides comprehensive foot scans and in-store recommendations, streamlining both in-store and online shopping experiences. Notably, the company's data reveals that 40% of shoes deviate from footwear brands' own size charts, often resulting in costly returns. Leveraging 3D scans, Volumental enhances consumer satisfaction while eliminating guesswork, particularly in e-commerce transactions. Brent Hollowell adds, "As a Volumental customer for three years and now a member of the team for almost as long, I've witnessed the consistently impressive impact of our solutions for footwear retailers. Rarely does a customer experience enhancer also deliver such a compelling return on investment." At the forefront of fit-tech innovation, Volumental utilizes 3D mapping and a proprietary algorithm to match customers with their ideal fit across brands and styles. Recognizing that fit transcends mere sizing, the company harnesses advanced technology like computer vision and artificial intelligence to provide personalized sizing and style recommendations. Volumental foot scans capture ten crucial data points, including heel width, instep height, and arch heights. Its AI-driven footwear recommendations are trained on data from over 45 million 3D foot scans that are matched to millions of successful past purchases across many footwear categories, brands and styles in order to help individual shoppers find their perfect fit. About Volumental Founded in 2012 in Stockholm, Volumental continues to be unrivaled in its FitTech solutions. In just one click and five seconds, Volumental's 3D scanner captures ten different foot measurements and generates all the necessary data for its powerful AI-powered Fit Engine, offering personalized footwear recommendations both in-store and online. Over 100 global brands and retailers, including New Balance, Fleet Feet, Red Wing Shoes, Bauer, The Athlete's Foot, Stride Rite, Canada Goose, and many more, have integrated Volumental's technology in over 3,000 stores across 54 countries. Media Contact: Luke Insoll - Communications Manager Email: luke.insoll@volumental.com The following files are available for download: https://mb.cision.com/Main/21600/3836985/2300357.pdf Press release (PDF) https://news.cision.com/volumental-ab/i/alper-aydemir-and-brent-hollowell,c3216599 Alper Aydemir and Brent Hollowell View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/volumental-strengthens-north-american-presence-to-meet-growing-fittech-demand-301930576.html NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Acre By Tom Townsend More than 7.5million is to be ploughed into the improvement of lowland peat to reduce carbon dioxide emission levels and help regulate our climate. The new government funding aims to bolster new action following recommendations from Robert Caudwell, the Chair of the Lowland Agricultural Peat Task Force. Farmers will receive more support through the investment, which is also expected to strengthen drought resilience and help develop innovative water management projects. What is peat? Peat is an accumulation of decomposed organic materials and as it contains more than half of the country's terrestrial carbon stores, it is a vital nature-based solution in the battle against climate change. Peat soils, which store twice as much carbon as forests, are under threat due to them drying out from drainage to create agricultural land. Why is rewetting peat so crucial? Our UK peatlands store an amazing 3.2 billion tonnes of carbon and can alleviate flooding but they are drying out and will no longer store carbon, instead emitting it back into the atmosphere. Rewetting will help generate more peat and absorb new carbon as well as continue to lock carbon underground. Rewetting them will not only help fight climate change but will also protect habitats for wildlife, birds and plants. According to the government, there is currently only one percent of England's lowland peatlands remaining in a near-natural state and it needs urgent preservation, in the form of rewetting, to boost food security and wetland biodiversity, protect communities from flooding and reduce CO2 emissions. What is the Lowland Agricultural Peat Task Force Chair's report? Robert Caudwell has released a report recommending necessary government action for the sustainable management of lowland peatlands. He said: "All the evidence demonstrates that reducing carbon emissions from lowland peat is vital as part of the United Kingdom government's plan to tackle climate change. "The report and the UK government's response are important first steps in a journey that will require partnership between all stakeholders, and I am confident that the work that is already underway will give farmers opportunities to develop their businesses and contribute to the challenge of net zero." The Lowland Agricultural Peat Task Force was created by the government in 2020 to explore how to improve the country's lowland farmed peat and ensure the longevity of future productive agriculture for years to come. Mr Caudwell made 14 recommendations for peat soil management to government and the wider sector which include investing in water storage and management, technical advice on keeping peat wetter, creating private finance opportunities and adopting the task force's roadmap for farming on rewetted peat (paludiculture). How will the new funding be allocated? The funding will accelerate deeper understanding of the lowland peat water challenge and will also pay for the installation of infrastructure and monitoring technology to enable more control of water levels in these regions. Two pilot projects will receive the investment - firstly, the Lowland Agricultural Peat Small Infrastructure Pilot will receive 5.45m to support infrastructure installation and monitoring technology to control water levels for peat preservation and rewetting. The Association of Drainage Authorities will help deliver this project. The Lowland Agricultural Peat Water Discovery Pilot, delivered by the Environment Agency, will receive the remaining 2.2m, which will allow a collaboration between local and water peatland partnerships. Alan Lovell, Chair of the Environment Agency said: "The report findings combined with further research and development provide useful support and incentives to farmers looking to transition to more climate friendly farming of peat soils. This is set out in our National Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Strategy for England and Roadmap." Tony Juniper, Chair of Natural England said: "Lowland peatlands play an important role in combating climate change, by keeping carbon in the land and out of the air. Working with land managers and others, it is imperative we find ways to support livelihoods and produce what society needs while at the same time halting the degradation of peat soils." Tom Townsend, Principal Consultant - Agriculture, Food and Beverage at Acre, said: "Restoration of our peatlands has been a challenge for many years. It's great to see such significant steps being taken, which hopefully signals a shift in mindset towards this vital resource." The government also announced a 5m Paludiculture Exploration Fund grant scheme supporting 12 projects. About Acre At Acre, we work with the most aspirational businesses with potential to make real change; from those who are just starting out to those who are well on the journey to crafting a legacy. Our 18 years' experience in sustainability recruitment, combined with our extensive global network, enables us to provide talent solutions that are designed to deliver this change. Through our unique behavioural assessment technology, we understand the types of people, skills and behaviours required to create impact. We can develop these qualities within your existing teams too. We find talented people and develop their skills to ensure they make a true impact in ambitious, progressive organisations. Acre. Making companies ready for tomorrow. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Acre on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Acre Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/acre Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Acre View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/785101/for-peats-sake-new-funding-to-fight-climate-change JINGXI, China, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On September 6, the expansion project of Longbang Port, which is located in Jingxi of Baise city, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, was given approval by a check and acceptance task force comprising members from authorities including the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China. The Longbang Port will be open to not only personnel, cargoes and vehicles of China and Vietnam, but expand to cover those of other third-party countries, thereby substantially raising the land port's functionality and capacity. The expansion project of the Longbang Port primarily included renovation and expansion of passenger inspection, upgrade and renovation of the Naxi freight transportation channel, etc. The passenger inspection channel received a brand new, five-story, national grade II passenger inspection building, while the Naxi freight transportation channel renovation involved a total of 230,000 square meters in construction area, including commercial zone for citizens near the border, general trade zone, bonded zone, cross-border e-commerce zone, etc., according to the Publicity Department of Jingxi. The Longbang Port is one of Guangxi's three major border ports, one of the most convenient land routes connecting the Indo-China Peninsula to the central and western parts of China, and an international logistics hub of the new western land-sea corridor. In recent years, import and export cargoes coming in and out of Longbang Port have steadily increased each year. In the first half of 2023, the Port facilitated the movement of nearly 6,000 vehicle/times, recorded around 14.14 billion yuan in foreign trade, notched 1.13 billion yuan in mutual imports of merchandise, and realized 740 million yuan in on-site processing of imported product. Image Attachments Links: Link: https://iop.asianetnews.net/view-attachment?attach-id=442254 Caption: Vietnam's passion fruit arrived at Longbang Port Border Trade Zone Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2213681/Zone.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/jingxis-longbang-port-expansion-project-approved-for-operation-commencement-301930689.html TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Grant Sawiak reports that as at the close of business on September 15, 2023 he has received proxies representing over 75 million shares or approximately 40% of the shares which are eligible to vote at the September 26 Annual Shareholders Meeting and which he believes are sufficient to defeat the NWST entrenched directors. "Together with my proxy agent, we have run scenarios assuming that all major shareholders who have not given me their proxies will be voting with NWST. We estimate the best-case scenario for NWST is that they will obtain approximately 30% of the shares which are entitled to vote at the September 26 meeting and we doubt that in reality they will come close to that number given the anger among the grass roots shareholder base." said Mr. Sawiak. "I will continue to accept proxies until September 21, 2023 and based on the number of people who I have solicited under the 15 Shareholder exemption and the number of people who have contacted me under the Public Broadcast exemption, I expect that I can receive proxies for in excess of 46% of the shares entitled to vote at the September 26 AGM." Mr. Sawiak then added: "NWST is being advised by Norton Rose, a law firm which has published a "Playbook" for representing management in proxy fights. This playbook, which is found on the Norton Rose website, deals with 'weapons that an issuer (has) to fight back' in a proxy fight and advocates such tactics as delaying a meeting (which they have done 4 times so far) in order to gain an advantage over 'activists' (which they have deemed me to be); challenging 'activists' as 'joint actors' which they tried and failed to do before the British Columbia Securities Commission; and asserting "claims" to frustrate an activist's attempt to replace the management nominees as directors which they tried by repeatedly alleging that my Advance Notice setting out who my nominees were, was fatally deficient." "I fully expect that in accordance with their Playbook, Norton Rose will now advise NWST to assert yet another "claim" to delay the meeting for a 5th time. I further expect that this claim will involve stating that some form of undisclosed information has come to their attention which requires them to delay the meeting to investigate matters such as I allegedly breached the requirements of one or both of the solicitation exemptions". In that case I will immediately proceed to take this matter up with the British Columbia Supreme Court and I expect that the court's decision will be in my favour just as was the British Columbia Securities Commission's decision last week." IF YOU WISH TO VOTE WITH MR. SAWIAK TO CHANGE THE BOARD OF NWST YOU MUST CONTACT HIM BY: 1. CALLING HIM AT 1.416.917.2816; OR 2. EMAILING HIM AT gvsawiak@hotmail.com ON OR BEFORE SEPTEMBER 21, 2023. Information in Support of Public Broadcast Solicitation The Concerned Shareholder is relying on the exemptions contained in Section 9.2(2) and Section 9.2(4) of National Instrument 51-102 - Continuous Disclosure Obligations to solicit proxies from no more than 15 securityholders and by soliciting proxies by broadcast, speech or publication. The Concerned Shareholder may also choose to file a dissident information circular in due course in compliance with applicable securities laws. A copy of the press release and the Nominating Shareholder Notice which collectively contains all information on the Concerned Shareholder's Nominees as required by National Instrument 51-102 and Form 51-102F5 were filed on SEDAR+ on August 4, 2023 and are available for viewing there. The information contained herein, and any solicitation made by the Concerned Shareholder in advance of the Meeting, is or will be, as applicable, made by the Concerned Shareholder and not by or on behalf of the management of NWST. All costs incurred for any solicitation will be borne by the Concerned Shareholder and by Mr. John Kimmel, provided that, subject to applicable law, Messrs. Sawiak and Kimmel may seek reimbursement from NWST of their out-of-pocket expenses, including proxy solicitation expenses and legal fees, incurred in connection with a successful reconstitution of the Company's board of directors. Other than in respect of their beneficial ownership, control or direction of securities of the Corporation described above, none of Messrs. Sawiak and Kimmel or any of their associates or affiliates has any material interest, direct or indirect, by way of beneficial ownership of securities or otherwise, in any matter to be acted upon at the Meeting other than the election of directors. A Registered Shareholder who has given a Proxy may revoke the Proxy by: (a) completing and signing a Proxy bearing a later date and depositing it at the offices of Odyssey, 350- 409 Granville Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6C 1T2 or and following the online voting instructions given to you no later than 10:00 a.m. (Vancouver time) on the second Business Day preceding the date of the Meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof; (b) depositing an instrument in writing executed by the Registered Shareholder or by the Registered Shareholder's attorney duly authorized in writing or, if the Registered Shareholder is a body corporate, by a duly authorized officer or attorney either with Odyssey, 350-409 Granville Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6C 1T2 at any time up to and including the last Business Day preceding the day of the Meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof or with the Chair of the Meeting prior to the commencement of the Meeting on the day of the Meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof; or (c) in any other manner permitted by Law. Such instrument will not be effective with respect to any matter on which a vote has already been cast pursuant to such Proxy. If a Registered Shareholder who has submitted a Proxy attends the Meeting, any votes cast by such Registered Shareholder on a ballot at the Meeting will be counted and the submitted Proxy will be disregarded. Only Registered Shareholders have the right to revoke a Proxy. Non-Registered Shareholders that wish to change their voting instructions must, in sufficient time in advance of the Meeting, contact their Intermediary to arrange to change their voting instructions. The Concerned Shareholder has engaged Shorecrest Group Ltd. to act as proxy solicitor in respect of this matter and will incur expenses of up to $120K plus out of pocket expenses. The Concerned Shareholder may engage the services of one or more other agents and authorize other persons to assist in soliciting proxies on behalf of the Concerned Shareholder. Any proxies solicited by or on behalf of the Concerned Shareholder, including by any other agent retained by the Concerned Shareholder, may be solicited in any other manner permitted under Canadian corporate and securities laws. Any such proxies may be revoked by instrument in writing executed by a shareholder or by his or her attorney authorized in writing or, if the shareholder is a body corporate, by an officer or attorney thereof duly authorized or by any other manner permitted by law. The head office of NWST is located at Suite 1900, 1055 West Hastings Street Vancouver, British Columbia V6E 2E9. A copy of this press release may be obtained on NWST's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.com. For more information contact: Grant Sawiak 416.917.2816 SOURCE: Grant Sawiak View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/785118/concerned-shareholder-grant-sawiak-announces-that-he-has-received-proxies-representing-over-75-million-shares-or-approximately-40-of-the-shares-eligible-to-vote-at-the-september-26-agm-which-is-he-believes-is-enough-to-defeat-nwsts-entrenched-directors CRAS, leading international conference on robotic surgery 100% of the drillings stopped within a corridor considered as clinically safe, which consists of 2 millimeters on each side of the interface between bone and the spinal canal Regulatory News: SpineGuard (FR0011464452 ALSGD), an innovative company that deploys its DSG (Dynamic Surgical Guidance) sensing technology to secure and streamline the placement of bone implants, announced that a research team presented an article at the CRAS conference on September 12th in Paris, France. They report the progress made with the robotic application of DSG. Stephane Bette, co-founder and Deputy CEO of SpineGuard, said: "The acceptance of this new article in a reference conference of the sector is a new validation by the scientific community of the value and feasibility in using DSG to enhance surgical robots in orthopedics. It also displays the richness of our collaboration with ISIR and the hospital practitioners who contributed to this study." Brahim Tamadazte, Research Director at CNRS and member of ISIR (Sorbonne Universite, CNRS UMR 7222, Inserm U1150), co-author of the study, adds: "The tight collaboration between SpineGuard, the Sorbonne Institute of Spine Surgery and ISIR continuously allows for improving Spine Surgery. The know-how combination of SpineGuard for DSG smart instruments with our long-time expertise in surgical robotics and the experience of renown spine surgeons such as Raphael Vialle, Elie Saghbiny and Christina Bobbio, enabled us to develop an algorithmic method for detecting potential bone breaches during pedicle screw insertion. Pr. Roger Widmann, Chief of the Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, US, and Professor at Weill Cornell Medical College, concludes: "The innovative and truly unique aspect of DSG technology is that the electrical conductivity data obtained from the tip of the DSG-enhanced surgical drills and taps provides real-time position and guidance information from the tip of traditional robotically navigated surgical instruments. DSG data provides confirmatory secondary modality data and confirmation regarding the 3D location of the instrument tip, and in doing so can help prevent complications and errors related to loss of registration or failure of traditional navigation before creation of pilot hole or definitive screw placement." DSG is based on the local measurement of electrical conductivity of tissues in real time without X-ray imaging, with a sensor located at the tip of the drilling instrument. Its efficacy was proven by more than 95,000 surgeries across the globe and 25 scientific publications. SpineGuard has entered in 2017 a collaboration with the ISIR (Institut des Systemes Intelligents et de Robotique) lab of Sorbonne University, CNRS and INSERM, for the application of DSG to surgical robots and the enhancement of their safety, accuracy, and autonomy. CRAS (Conference on New Technologies for Computer and Robot Assisted Surgery) founded in 2011 has become one of the most recognized scientific conferences in the field of robot assisted surgery. Its goals are to strengthen the collaboration between the different research groups to boost the efficacy and shorten the development cycle, in a context where numerous technologies applicable to robotics have not made their way into operating rooms yet. A clinically relevant configuration As stated in our march press release, the experiment which results were presented, consists in automatically stopping the drill bit as the tip is aiming at the bone boundary during a vertebral drilling performed autonomously by a robot. However, in order to go further in the challenge and the demonstration of DSG efficacy, the trajectory is now pedicular. It presents tangential configurations perfectly matching delicate surgical situations where the spinal canal protecting the spinal cord must be avoided, and where the tip does not coast the bone surface in a perpendicular way. The algorithm used for the detection was tuned before the 50-drilling series was performed, and no adjustments or calibrations are needed for each specimen. The ex vivo pig vertebra validation model (butcher shop) does not involve any animal sacrifice. 100% success, an indisputable result 100% of the drillings stopped within a corridor considered as clinically safe, which consists of 2 millimeters on each side of the interface between bone and the spinal canal. More precisely, all drillings belonged to a -0.9mm/+1.4mm interval, with a mean distance of 0.7mm. This was obtained although the drilling was performed in a totally "blind" manner, with neither utilization of pre-op nor intra-op imaging. This study and described algorithms are the fruits of the collaboration between SpineGuard and ISIR. Part of this work received funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program, in the context of the FAROS project (Functional Accurate RObotic Surgery) under grant agreement No 101016985. About SpineGuard Founded in 2009 in France and the USA by Pierre Jerome and Stephane Bette, SpineGuard is an innovative company deploying its proprietary radiation-free real time sensing technology DSG (Dynamic Surgical Guidance) to secure and streamline the placement of implants in the skeleton. SpineGuard designs, develops and markets medical devices that have been used in over 95,000 surgical procedures worldwide. Twenty-five studies published in peer-reviewed scientific journals have demonstrated the multiple benefits DSG offers to patients, surgeons, surgical staff and hospitals. Building on these strong fundamentals and several strategic partnerships, SpineGuard has expanded the scope of its DSG technology in innovative applications such as the smart pedicle screw, the DSG Connect visualization and registration interface, dental implantology and surgical robotics. DSG was co-invented by Maurice Bourlion, Ph.D., Ciaran Bolger, M.D., Ph.D., and Alain Vanquaethem, Biomedical Engineer. SpineGuard has engaged in multiple ESG initiatives. For further information, visit www.spineguard.com Disclaimer The SpineGuard securities may not be offered or sold in the United States as they have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act or any United States state securities laws, and SpineGuard does not intend to make a public offer of its securities in the United States. This is an announcement and not a prospectus, and the information contained herein does and shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of the securities referred to herein in the United States in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or exemption from registration. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918043362/en/ Contacts: SpineGuard Pierre Jerome CEO Chairman Tel: +33 1 45 18 45 19 p.jerome@spineguard.com SpineGuard Anne-Charlotte Millard CFO Tel: +33 1 45 18 45 19 ac.millard@spineguard.com NewCap Investor Relations Financial Communication Mathilde Bohin Aurelie Manavarere Tel: +33 1 44 71 94 94 spineguard@newcap.eu As of June 30, 2023 Cash position of 12.1 million (17.4 million as of December 31, 2022) Revenue of 1.6 million, mainly from partnership with Tonghua Dongbao Clinical programs progressing according to plans: finalization of clinical studies on BioChaperone Combo and continuation of Phase 3 of BioChaperone Lispro As of August 31, 2023: Adocia strengthened its cash position to 16 million, resulting from previously announced transactions: Receipt of 10 million from Sanofi, following the exclusivity agreement related to M1Pram Financing operation of 10 million Repayment in full of 10.2 million venture loan Regulatory News: Adocia (Euronext Paris: FR0011184241 ADOC), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the research and development of innovative therapeutic solutions for the treatment of diabetes and other metabolic diseases, announces today its financial results for the six months ended June 30th, 2023, and provides a business update. Half-year consolidated financial statements, expressed according to IFRS guidelines, underwent limited review by the statutory auditors and subsequently have been approved at the Board of Director's meeting held on September 14th, 2023. "With my appointment as Chief Executive Officer, my short-term priorities were to conclude a partnership on M1Pram and renegotiate our commitments with our lenders. The first half of the year was marked by a difficult period during which we had to suspend the trading of shares. I am delighted that, in the end, we came out stronger as a company and succeeded in clearing our debt, strengthening our financial position and, above all, taking an important step towards a partnership with Sanofi on M1Pram. We are working on the clinical and regulatory fronts to accelerate the development of this product, notably with the preparation of a Phase 2b trial in the United States for people suffering from obesity and type 1 diabetes. Our strategic priority is now to finalize a worldwide licensing agreement for M1Pram", says Olivier Soula. "At the same time, the good conduct of BioChaperone Lispro Phase 3 trials in China confirms Adocia's dual expertise in innovation and pharmaceutical development of major products. This maturity and expertise are the keys to our future success", concludes Olivier Soula. Key financial results of first half 2023 The table below compares the condensed consolidated financial statements prepared for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2023, and June 30, 2022, respectively: In (EUR thousands, Consolidated financial statements, IAS/IFRS 06/30/2023 6 months 06/30/2022 6 months Operating revenue 3,901 10,418 Revenue 1,627 7,349 Grants, research tax credits and others 2,274 3,069 Operating expenses excluding additions and reversals (10,961) (15,215) Additions to and reversals of depreciation, amortization and provisions (238) (294) CURRENT OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) (7,298) (5,090) Other operating revenue and expenses 0 11,199 OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) (7,298) 6,108 Financial income 63 227 Financial expenses (2,155) (1,605) FINANCIAL INCOME (LOSS) (2,092) (1,379) PROFIT (LOSS) BEFORE TAX (9,389) (4,730) Tax expenses (2) (478) NET INCOME (LOSS) (9,392) 4,252 The financial results of the Company as of June 30, 2023, are characterized by the following main elements: Revenue of 1.6 million, mainly from licensing and collaboration agreements signed with Tonghua Dongbao (THDB). For the first half of 2023, sales include 1 million in services provided by Adocia teams as part of the collaboration signed with THDB on the BioChaperone Combo project for the conduct of three clinical trials in Europe. Revenues for the half-year also reflect 0.5 million from the ongoing feasibility study on the AdOral project. In 2022, over the same period, sales were impacted to the tune of 4.8 million by the receipt in May 2022 of the milestone payment generated following the recruitment and dosing of the first patient in the Phase 3 program launched with BioChaperone Lispro by THDB in China. Other current operating revenues of 2.3 million, comprising the CIR (Research Tax Credit) of 1.8 million related to Adocia's R&D expenses for the first six months of the 2023 financial year, and the waiver of 0.5 million from Bpifrance on the Hinsbet program initiated in 2012 and discontinued. Operating expenses of 11.2 million, down 4.3 million compared with the first six months of 2022. This reduction was mainly due to lower external R&D expenditure, reflecting reduced activity on preclinical and clinical studies, in particular the BioChaperone Combo studies carried out under the collaboration agreement with THDB. Financial expenses of almost 2.1 million, mainly due to interest on loans (including IPF for 1.1 million) and the impact of the revaluation at fair value of the OC1023 and OC1124 bonds (0.6 million). A before-tax deficit which, taking into account the above items, amounts to 9.4 million, compared with a profit of 4.3 million for the same period last year. It should be noted that the profit for the first half of 2022 included non-recurring operating income of 11.2 million, linked exclusively to the capital gain realized from the sale of Adocia's headquarter building in March 2022. Cash position of 12.1 million as of June 30, 2023, compared with 17.4 million as of December 31, 2022. This position includes 4.3 million received in February 2023 as part of the mobilization of the 2022 research tax credit (CIR). On a comparable basis, cash consumption from operations for the first six months of the year came to 10.7 million, slightly higher than last year's figure for the same period (10.2 million). Net financial debt (excluding IFRS 16 impacts and derivative instruments) stood at 19.6 million at end-June 2023, compared with 24.1 million as of December 31, 2022. The 4.6 million decrease in debt over the first half is essentially due to (i) the repayment of the quarterly maturity (March) of the IPF Partners loan, offset by the costs and interest associated with the early repayment of the debt made at the beginning of July, (ii) the conversion (for an amount of -3.7 million at the end of June 2023) of the bonds convertible into shares known as "OC 1124" issued by the Company in December 2022, (iii) the repayment of maturities of PGE1 loans (-0.7 million) and (iv) the waiver of 0.5 million from Bpifrance on the Hinsbet program initiated in 2012 and discontinued. Post-closure events In July 2023, Adocia signed an exclusivity agreement with Sanofi for M1Pram for 10 million, which the Company received on July 20, 2023. This agreement secured a 10 million financing operation consisting of a 5 million private placement subscribed in particular by Gerard Soula, Chairman of Adocia's Board of Directors, and Bpifrance, supplemented by the issue of 5 million in convertible bonds underwritten by Vester Finance and European investors. Following these agreements, at the beginning of July, the Company proceeded with the early repayment of its loan with IPF Partners for 10.2 million, including all debt and associated legal fees. On August 4, 2023, an agreement was signed with the lenders of the PGE or a 12-month grace period on principal repayments from that date, generating a saving of 1.7 million. Lastly, IPF Partners exercised part of its warrants for 409,838 shares, for which the Company received 1 million. Consequently, since June 30, 2023, the company has significantly reduced its debt. Indeed, debts, which stood at 24.1m at the end of December 2022, amounted to 5.4m at the date of the half-year report (excluding IFRS 16 impacts and derivative debts). "Over the past few weeks, the transactions we have carried out have enabled us to significantly improve our cash position and put our financial situation on a sounder footing," comments Valerie Danaguezian, Chief Financial Officer. "Firstly, the full repayment of our debts to IPF Partners has enabled us to regain our financial independence. In addition, the rearrangement of PGE debt with a 12-month deferral gives us additional flexibility of 1.7 million. We are also particularly pleased to announce that Vester Finance has converted the entirety of its convertible bonds, thereby settling our financial debts (known as OCs) and their dilutive impact. We would like to thank Vester Finance for its renewed confidence in Adocia and its investments over the last few years". First Half 2023 Program Update The first half of 2023 was rich in partnerships, with the signing of an exclusivity agreement with Sanofi for M1Pram (combination of a prandial insulin and an amylin analog). At the same time, the collaboration with Tonghua Dongbao continued, with the progress of Phase 3 for BioChaperone Lispro (ultra-rapid-acting insulin) and the completion of three qualification studies for BioChaperone Combo (combination of basal and prandial insulins), paving the way for direct entry into Phase 3. A feasibility study is currently underway using the AdOral technology platform on a partner's (undisclosed) peptide. BIOCHAPERONE LISPRO Adocia's partner in China, Tonghua Dongbao, is currently conducting a pivotal Phase 3 program with BioChaperone Lispro. The clinical program, fully funded by Tonghua Dongbao, involves over 1,300 type 1 and 2 diabetes patients recruited from over 100 centers across China. With the first patient dosed in May 2022, this Phase 3 program should be completed in 2024. The last visit of the last patient (LPLV) would trigger a milestone payment of $10 million. Additional development milestone payments of up to $20 million remain on the contract, as well as double-digit royalties on future sales. BIOCHAPERONE COMBO In April 2022, Tonghua Dongbao and Adocia initiated 3 clinical studies in Europe (CT046 47 and 48) with BioChaperone Combo, to qualify Tonghua Dongbao's insulins. The clinical part of these studies has now been completed, and the results are currently being analyzed. The data obtained should enable Tonghua Dongbao to submit the BioChaperone Combo dossier to the Chinese Drug Agency (CDE), in order to obtain authorization to start a pivotal Phase 3 program in China. The start of Phase 3 would give way to a payment of $10 million to Adocia. Under the terms of the agreement, a further $40 million in milestone payments are still to be expected, as well as double-digit royalties on future sales of the product in China and other territories licensed to Tonghua Dongbao. M1PRAM In the first half of 2023, discussions were initiated with Sanofi. These led to the granting of exclusive rights to negotiate a worldwide licensing agreement for M1Pram (and related insulin-pramlintide combinations developed by Adocia). This agreement was accompanied by a payment of 10 million on July 20, 2023. The objective is to conclude a licensing agreement by the end of 2023. M1Pram is the only insulin developed to date for people suffering from obesity and insulin-dependent diabetes. With a weight loss of -5.5 kg achieved in 16 weeks in people with type 1 diabetes and a BMI>30kg/m, M1Pram is the first drug to deliver this level of performance in patients on intensive insulin therapy. A Phase 2b clinical program for people with obesity and Type 1 diabetes is currently in preparation in the USA. ADOSHELL ISLETS, FOR CELL THERAPY OF DIABETES AdoShell Islets is an immunoprotective synthetic biomaterial containing islets of Langerhans for the treatment of type 1 diabetes by cell therapy. Preclinical work carried out in the first half of 2023 demonstrated the efficacy of AdoShell Islets, as well as its excellent biocompatibility and tolerance. Results presented at the ADA (83rd Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association) showed that, after a 7-month implantation period in the peritoneal cavity of rats (immunocompetent diabetic models), AdoShellIslets containing rats islets demonstrated excellent tolerance without triggering inflammatory reactions or fibrosis. In particular, no biodegradation or penetration of immune cells was observed, reinforcing its potential as a novel solution for patients suffering from type 1 diabetes. Adocia is actively working to initiate clinical trials and is preparing interactions with the EMA (European Medicines Agency) in order to validate the proposed development plan. At the same time, Adocia is pursuing its search for partners for AdoShell ADORAL: ORAL PEPTIDE DELIVERY In response to a strong market need for new formulations to improve patient compliance and quality of life, Adocia has developed AdOral. This technological platform aims to increase peptide absorption in the gastrointestinal tract, based on a new family of permeation enhancers. Applied to semaglutide, AdOral technology increases its oral bioavailability by up to 5 times, compared with the reference technology used on Rybelsus (oral semaglutide, Novo). These groundbreaking results have led to discussions with a number of players potentially interested in the oral GLP-1 market. The innovative AdOral technology has also been tested on a pharmaceutical partner's peptide, to study the feasibility of an oral formulation. This study could lead to the conclusion of a licensing agreement. Governance On May 15, 2023, Adocia announced the appointment of Olivier Soula as Chief Executive Officer and Gerard Soula was renewed as Chairman of the Board of Directors. Olivier Soula, PhD, MBA, co-founder of Adocia, is co-author of over 40 patents on protein delivery, and has worked for over 20 years in the field of innovative formulations. He has also played a central role in the signing of numerous partnerships. Olivier's first objectives in his new role as CEO were to sign a partnership agreement for M1Pram and to renegotiate agreements with Adocia's lenders. The General Shareholder Meeting set on May 11th, 2023 has appointed Mads Dall as a Director of Adocia, decided by the Company's Board of Directors on December 14, 2022, and renewed his term of office for a further 3 years. Mads Dall is CEO and founder of Dall Company, a strategic business development company in the life sciences field, based in Copenhagen. Mads has extensive international experience of the diabetes industry and has worked with pharmaceutical, biotech and MedTech companies in executive, advisory and board positions. Participation in investor events Adocia will be taking part in a number of investor events over the coming months: Lyon Pole Bourse (September 27, 2023, Lyon) - Investor Access (October 9-10, 2023, Paris) - Investir Day (November 28, 2023, Paris) - ODDO BHF Forum (January 15-16, 2024, Virtual) - JPM 2024 42nd Annual Healthcare Meeting (January 8 11, 2023, San Francisco) During these professional meetings with the financial community, through one-to-one formats or plenary presentations, Adocia's management will review Adocia's latest news and outlook. Availability of the half-year financial report The 2023 half-year financial report of Adocia has been filed with the French Financial markets authority (Autorite des marches financiers). It is available to the public and can be consulted on the www.adocia.com website in the Financials Documentation section. About Adocia Adocia is a biotechnology company specializing in the discovery and development of therapeutic solutions in the field of metabolic diseases, primarily diabetes and obesity. The company has a broad portfolio of drug candidates based on four proprietary technology platforms: 1) The BioChaperone technology for the development of new generation insulins and products combining insulins with other classes of hormones; 2) AdOral, an oral peptide delivery technology; 3) AdoShell, an immunoprotective biomaterial for cell transplantation, with a first application in pancreatic cells transplantation; 4) AdoGel, a long-acting drug delivery platform. Adocia holds more than 25 patent families. Based in Lyon, the company has about 100 employees. Adocia is listed on the regulated market of EuronextTM Paris (Euronext: ADOC; ISIN: FR0011184241). Disclaimer This press release contains certain forward-looking statements concerning Adocia and its business. Such forward-looking statements are based on assumptions that Adocia considers as being reasonable. However, there can be no guarantee that the estimates contained in such forward-looking statements will be achieved, as such estimates are subject to numerous risks including those which are set forth in the "Risk Factors" section of the universal registration document that was filed with the French Autorite des marches financiers on April 26, 2023 updated by the amendment of 26 July 2023 (D.23-0346-A01) and amendment of 13 September 2023 (D.23-0346-A02), available at www.adocia.com, in particular uncertainties that are linked to research and development, future clinical data, analyses, and the evolution of the economic context, the financial markets and the markets in which Adocia operates. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to risks not yet known to Adocia or not considered as material by Adocia as of this day. The occurrence of all or part of such risks could cause that actual results, financial conditions, performances, or achievements of Adocia be materially different from those mentioned in the forward-looking statements. 1 PGE: Pret Garanti par l'Etat State Guaranteed Loan View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918502469/en/ Contacts: Adocia Olivier Soula CEO contactinvestisseurs@adocia.com +33 (0)4 72 610 610 www.adocia.com Ulysse Communication Adocia Relations Presse et Investisseurs Pierre-Louis Germain Bruno Arabian adocia@ulysse-communication.com + 33 (0)6 64 79 97 51 FedEx's mobile feeding canteens enable The Salvation Army to serve more than 32,000 individuals in Q2 2023 NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / In the second quarter of 2023, FedEx's mobile feeding units proved vital in The Salvation Army's efforts to serve their communities. The mobile feeding units were used in outreach events, disaster relief, and homeless feeding programs, and over this quarter the mobile canteens were deployed to 47 different events, with over 32,562 people served. The Salvation Army is greatly appreciative of the support of FedEx and their donation of mobile feeding units and will continue to utilize them to further support our communities. Disaster Response Tornadoes in Indiana: On March 31st, 2023, a tornado swept across Indiana and caused significant damage in several counties. The FedEx canteen was engaged immediately to support survivors, first responders, city workers, and utility crews. In Sullivan, Indiana, the canteen was used by disaster workers for weeks after the tornado. Over 50 volunteers served 6,596 meals, 7,667 snacks, and 6,393 drinks. Additionally, disaster workers provided Bibles, blankets, comfort kits, and toys and 15 survivors were provided with Emotional and Spiritual Care by trained Emergency Disaster Services workers. Over 10,000 survivors were served with the help of The Salvation Army and the FedEx canteen. Fires in Western Pennsylvania: The Salvation Army FedEx canteens were used by Emergency Disaster Services teams to respond to 8 fires in the following counties in Pennsylvania over the course of April, May, and June (Braddock, Glassport, West Mifflin, East Pittsburgh, and Pitcarin). Salvation Army volunteers and officers spent hours at the scenes of the fires, providing support to both survivors and first responders. Emergency Disaster Services workers provided meals, drinks, blankets, and snacks, reaching over 455 individuals affected by the fires. Tornadoes in Tennessee: Beginning on March 31st and continuing through the early hours of April 1st, tornadoes blew through Tennessee, ultimately damaging dozens of homes and taking the lives of several Tennessee residents. The Salvation Army Kentucky & Tennessee Division deployed the FedEx canteen to serve those impacted, focusing their efforts on Wynne, Arkansas, and Covington, Tennessee. The FedEx canteen was used by disaster workers to serve for two days in Wynne, Arkansas and for three days in Covington, Tennessee. In Wynne, Arkansas, disaster workers partnered with the fire department to serve meals, snacks, and drinks to survivors and first responders. In Covington, Tennessee, the disaster workers partnered with the police department who were able to escort the team to the most impacted areas where they served first responders. Trained disaster workers also provided Emotional & Spiritual Care to those impacted. Over the course of a 5-day response, over 100 individuals were served by The Salvation Army with the help of the FedEx canteens. Fires in Chicago: From April to June, The Salvation Army North & Central Illinois Division responded to 6 fires in Chicago, Illinois and Aurora, Illinois. With the help of the FedEx canteen, Emergency Disaster Service workers provided 247 snacks, 447 drinks, and 29 meals to over 340 first responders actively fighting the fires. Homeless Feeding and Outreach Miami Lunch and Love Program: Since 2022, The Salvation Army of Miami-Dade, Florida has been feeding Miami's growing homeless population through its Lunch and Love program. With the use of a FedEx canteen, volunteers set up their service in one of Miami's "camp cities" for unsheltered homeless. In this quarter, volunteers engaged with 135 homeless individuals and distributed over 100 meals, 135 snack packs and drinks, and 30 first aid kits. Additionally, The Salvation Army provided 12 people with emotional and spiritual support and referred seven (7) people to additional Salvation Army services. As the number of Miami's unsheltered homeless continues to grow, the need for this service is vital; The Salvation Army of Miami-Dade hopes to increase this program from biweekly to weekly feedings. Baltimore FeedMore Program: The Potomac Division of The Salvation Army has established the FeedMore program with the use of a FedEx canteen. Every Friday, the canteen runs a route with 4 set stops throughout the city, so individuals in need know where and when to find the provided resources. 18 Salvation Army officers and volunteers have engaged with over 7,000 Baltimore residents, serving 7,514 meals and snacks, 7,801 drinks, and distributing over 3,000 hygiene kits. Baltimore Cornbread Cafe: Twice a week, The Salvation Army Baltimore Temple Corps in the Potomac Division holds a free feeding program for food-insecure residents. Using the FedEx canteens, Salvation Army volunteers and officers have served thousands of meals, snacks, and drinks, and have distributed 250 hygiene kits. This quarter, Salvation Army officers and volunteers have engaged with 1,186 food-insecure individuals in the Baltimore area with the help of the FedEx canteen. Danville Mobile Feeding Program: The Salvation Army FedEx canteen previously located in the Washington, DC area was approved for relocation to Danville, Virginia. The FedEx canteen was quickly integrated into a new mobile feeding program that serves 45 sites per week and works with multiple community partners to serve those experiencing food insecurity in the community. In Danville, The Salvation Army has formed partnerships with local churches to provide daily assistance to food-insecure individuals in the community. The FedEx canteen is used to serve community members in 45 different feeding locations and have engaged with 447 locals by providing hot meals, snacks, drinks, and hygiene kits to anyone in need. New Orleans Homeless Feeding Program: Every Tuesday and Thursday in New Orleans, Louisiana, Salvation Army disaster workers serve meals to the New Orleans' homeless population. Since April 1st of this year, The Salvation Army Alabama, Louisiana & Mississippi division has served 1,872 homeless individuals by providing thousands of meals, snacks, and drinks with the help of FedEx canteen. Trenton Mobile Feeding Program: Every Friday evening in Trenton, New Jersey, a volunteer-led team takes the canteen to multiple locations in the city to provide prepared meals, pantry boxes, and various other items to vulnerable populations. These populations include the homeless, housing and food insecure, low-income, migrants, and seniors. The Salvation Army-Trenton Corps collaborates regularly with other service providers in Trenton such as Trenton Police, interfaith coalitions, Mercer County Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD), and Trenton Rescue Mission for guidance on which locations to serve and to provide additional resources for clients. In the 2nd quarter alone, the Trenton mobile feeding program has served 2,685 individuals, and has distributed 272 masks, 261 socks, 200 comfort kits, and 14 toys. San Francisco Homeless Outreach & Food Program: Every Friday night students from The Salvation Army's Culinary Training Academy prepare and serve food to San Francisco's homeless population. Most of the Culinary Training Academy's students were homeless or food-insecure previously and have found new beginnings in The Salvation Army's rehab and job training programs. This program has served 3,600 meals and drinks, reaching thousands of homeless individuals. Special Events Lawrenceville Police Appreciation Lunch: On June 2nd, The Salvation Army Georgia Division provided lunch for the entire police department of Lawrenceville, Georgia to show their appreciation for their service to the community. 11 Salvation Army officers and volunteers served 75 meals for the entire police force out of the FedEx canteen. Indiana United Front 23: In Butlerville, Indiana, The Salvation Army Indiana Division provided food and hydration to the Indiana National Guardsman, firefighters, and the Israeli Defense Force during a 24-hour training exercise. The Salvation Army team used the training exercise to simulate deployment to a disaster site and train on the mobile kitchen of the canteen. Captain Vinal Lee, the Public Information Officer for this exercise, shared that "These training moments for FEMA, National Guard, and Israeli military are just as much an opportunity for us to train and exercise our personnel and resources. Our ability to deploy team members from around the state, mobilize resources, and maintain continuity of service around the state is a great opportunity for us to learn and grow as an organization." Using the kitchen of the FedEx canteen, 12 officers and volunteers served 244 meals, 931 snacks, and 305 drinks to 95 people. National Donut Day in Pittsburgh: National Donut Day, celebrated yearly on the first Friday of June, is a holiday created by The Salvation Army in 1938. During World War II, The Salvation Army's "Donut Lassies" distributed donuts to soldiers as a morale boost and popularized the donut in the United States. The Salvation Army celebrates National Donut Day yearly, and this year in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, nine (9) Salvation Army employees and volunteers distributed 35 dozen donuts to veterans at the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Aspinwall with the help of the FedEx canteens. Service Extension Camp: In Independence, Missouri, the Kansas & Western Missouri Division of The Salvation Army collaborated with their Service Extension Unit and children's camp. Three (3) volunteers served 120 meals and 150 snacks and drinks to campers and their families, also providing tours of the canteen, and demonstrating to campers and parents alike how the mobile kitchens are used. Chicago Funerals & Wakes: In April, Emergency Disaster Services workers at The Salvation Army deployed the canteen to serve at firefighter's funerals and wakes in Chicago, Illinois and Norridge, Illinois. In May, Emergency Disaster Services used the FedEx canteen to serve drinks and snacks to first responders working and attending the wake and funeral of a Chicago police officer. Between the 5 total events, volunteers served 752 snacks and 988 drinks. Results/Outcomes: Total number of meals served: 26,302 Total number of snacks served: 25,983 Total number of drinks served: 29,591 Total number hygiene/comfort kits distributed: 3,731 Total number of miscellaneous items distributed (blankets, toys, socks): 291 Total Number referrals to The Salvation Army programs and Non-Salvation Army programs: 15 View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from FedEx Corporation on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: FedEx Corporation Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/fedex-corporation Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: FedEx Corporation View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/785146/the-salvation-armys-partnership-with-fedex-provides-valuable-services NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / International Paper Company International Paper was proud to participate in the groundbreaking for the new Discovery Forest at the Lichterman Nature Center in Memphis, Tenn. International Paper is sponsoring this project alongside the City of Memphis, Sylvamo, and the Lichterman-Loewenberg Foundation. With eyes on an opening in spring of 2024, the Discovery Forest will be a trail full of twists and bends with play areas, exploration zones, and learning spots along the way for children of all ages. The Nature Center, managed by Memphis Museum of Science & History (MoSH), hopes the Discovery Forest will provide another enriching opportunity for the Memphis community to build a long-lasting friendship with the nature that surrounds us. It will be an interactive experience built by the elements of the environment itself including local minerals, water, and objects that already naturally shape our landscape. "International Paper is delighted to support the Discovery Forest at the Lichterman Nature Center. It is a perfect combination of connecting and educating children about nature and our planet through imaginative play, said Dr. Alissa Campbell Shaw, International Paper's senior manager for corporate social responsibility and community engagement. Barry Lichterman grew up in the very woods where his grandmother broke ground for the construction of the Lichterman Nature Center years before. The Discovery Forest is a dream realized for him and the Lichterman-Loewenberg Foundation. Set to begin construction this fall; the Discovery Forest will extend the Lichterman Nature Center's overall goals of bringing nature to life in a safe place for Memphians to enjoy within the center of a bustling urban metropolis. From our sourcing practices to our manufacturing operations, International Paper is building a better future for people and the planet. The Discovery Forest will allow children of today to learn to enjoy and protect our outdoors for generations to come, just as Lichterman did. About International Paper International Paper (NYSE: IP) is a global producer of planet-friendly packaging, pulp and other fiber-based products, and one of North America's largest recyclers. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 39,000 colleagues globally who are committed to creating what's next. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2022 were $21.2 billion. Additional information can be found by visiting InternationalPaper.com. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from International Paper Company on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: International Paper Company Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/international-paper-company Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: International Paper Company View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/785148/international-paper-proudly-supports-the-groundbreaking-of-the-discovery-forest-at-lichterman-nature-center VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Gander Gold Corp. ("Gander" or the "Company") (CSE:GAND)(OTCQB:GANDF), is pleased to announce that it will host an online Investor webinar on September 21, at 4pm EST. The interactive session will be hosted by Gander CEO Mark Scott. Mr. Scott will discuss progress at Gander Gold's properties in the heart of the Newfoundland Gold Rush. The company has a dominant land position in the Central Newfoundland Gold Belt, controlling 2,259 sq km, which includes the Gander North project located just 15km east of Newfoundland Gold Corp.'s "Keats" discovery zone. Mr. Scott will also give an overview of the geologic characteristics that have created the area's recent gold discoveries, and he will outline potential next steps based on the Company's maiden drill programs executed in 2023. The interactive event will include a Question & Answer session, and all interested media and investors are invited to pre-register. For any questions regarding the event, please contact info@gandergold.com Link to register: https://gandergold.com/webinar "Many investors aren't familiar with the current opportunity in Newfoundland and Labrador, a unique jurisdiction that has not only recently generated major gold discoveries, but that also remains very underexplored." Stated CEO Mark Scott, adding "Gander Gold acquired eight significant projects early in the Newfoundland gold rush starting in 2020, and we have now progressed from surface prospecting to drilling. Based on early indications on our Phase 1 drilling program this summer, I am confident that we have already identified structurally controlled, near-surface gold mineralization. I look forward to sharing this update with an energetic investor group on September 21." Acknowledgment Gander Gold acknowledges the financial support of the Junior Exploration Assistance Program, Department of Natural Resources, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. About Gander Gold Corporation Gander Gold is "All Newfoundland, All the Time." The Company is one of the island's largest claimholders targeting new high-grade gold discoveries with a current focus on the large Gander North, Mount Peyton, and BLT (Botwood-Laurenceton-Thwart Island) projects where there has been very promising early exploration success. Other opportunities advancing through the pipeline are Cape Ray II, Carmanville, Gander South, Little River, and Hermitage. Contact Info: Mark Scott Chief Executive Officer & Director info@gandergold.com Terry Bramhall Gander Gold - Corporate Communications 1.604.833.6999 (mobile) 1.604.675.9985 (office) terry.bramhall@gandergold.com Caution Regarding Forward Looking Statements Investors are cautioned that, except for statements of historical fact, certain information contained in this document includes "forward looking information," with respect to a performance expectation for Gander Gold Corp. Such forward looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections formulated using assumptions believed to be reasonable and involving a number of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. Such factors include, without limitation, fluctuations in foreign exchange markets, the price of commodities in both the cash market and futures market, changes in legislation, taxation, controls and regulation of national and local governments and political and economic developments in Canada and other countries where Gander carries out or may carry out business in the future, the availability of future business opportunities and the ability to successfully integrate acquisitions or operational difficulties related to technical activities of mining and reclamation, the speculative nature of exploration and development of mineral deposits, including risks obtaining necessary licenses and permits, reducing the quantity or grade of reserves, adverse changes in credit ratings, and the challenge of title. The Company does not undertake an obligation to update publicly or revise forward looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws. Some of the results reported are historical and may not have been verified by the Company. The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Neither the CSE nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. SOURCE: Gander Gold Corp. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/785086/gander-gold-to-host-investor-webinar-september-21-4pm-est CAMBRIDGE, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / MIT Solve, an initiative of the Massachusetts Institute for Technology with a mission to drive innovation to solve world challenges, unveiled its 2023 Solver class today -- 31 tech-innovators tackling its 2023 Global Challenges. This took place during Solve's annual pitch event in New York City ahead of the UN General Assembly Week. The 2023 Solvers share a prize pool of over $1.5 million, and each team receives at least $10,000 in unrestricted funding and enters a nine-month support program to scale their work and impact. "Solve has always believed that those closest to the problems offer the most impactful and sustainable solutions. We're honored to welcome these 31 new Solver teams to our community, and look forward to championing them and helping them scale their impact on their communities and the world," said Solve's Executive Director, Hala Hanna. The new 2023 Solver Class was selected by Solve's expert judges from a pool of over 1,500 applicants from over 120 countries and more than 100 unique Indigenous communities. In this new class, 68% of Solver teams are women-led, 14 countries and seven American and Canadian Indigenous nations are represented, and 55% are for-profit organizations. The prize funding announced at the event breaks down as follows: The GM Prize supported by General Motors ($150,000): Natives Rising, Ma Ka Hana Ka ?Olelo Hawai?i, La Firme, Build up Nepal ECO2Brick, GNYPWD Accessible Connect, Mapping Justice supported by General Motors ($150,000): Natives Rising, Ma Ka Hana Ka ?Olelo Hawai?i, La Firme, Build up Nepal ECO2Brick, GNYPWD Accessible Connect, Mapping Justice The HP Prize for Accelerating Digital Equity supported by HP ($150,000): Climate Health Vulnerability Mapping, GNYPWD Accessible Connect, Utiva, Livox, BeeLine Reader, Weird Enough Productions supported by HP ($150,000): Climate Health Vulnerability Mapping, GNYPWD Accessible Connect, Utiva, Livox, BeeLine Reader, Weird Enough Productions The GSR Foundation Prize supported by GSR Foundation ($200,000): Tiny Totos Kenya, PesaKit, NaYa, Rahat Beema supported by GSR Foundation ($200,000): Tiny Totos Kenya, PesaKit, NaYa, Rahat Beema The AI for Humanity Prize supported by Patrick J. McGovern Foundation ($150,000): Synnefa, Lucrefy, Climate Health Vulnerability Mapping, GNYPWD Accessible Connect supported by Patrick J. McGovern Foundation ($150,000): Synnefa, Lucrefy, Climate Health Vulnerability Mapping, GNYPWD Accessible Connect The Health Access Prize supported by Johnson & Johnson Impact Ventures, an impact fund within Johnson & Johnson Foundation ($175,000): Rology, Elythea, Savyn, SAVE by Briota Technologies supported by Johnson & Johnson Impact Ventures, an impact fund within Johnson & Johnson Foundation ($175,000): Rology, Elythea, Savyn, SAVE by Briota Technologies Prince Albert II of Monaco Ocean Innovation Prize supported by the Prince of Monaco ($100,000): Omiflo supported by the Prince of Monaco ($100,000): Omiflo Living Forests Prize supported by Good Energies Foundation ($100,000): GeoAirCon, Omiflo, Nelplast supported by Good Energies Foundation ($100,000): GeoAirCon, Omiflo, Nelplast The Experian Prize supported by Experian ($50,000): Tiny Totos Kenya, Lucrefy supported by Experian ($50,000): Tiny Totos Kenya, Lucrefy The Andan Prize for Innovation in Refugee Inclusion supported by Andan Foundation ($50,000): Faircap Clean Water, Utiva, Hello World supported by Andan Foundation ($50,000): Faircap Clean Water, Utiva, Hello World All 2023 teams also receive a $10,000 grant from Solve, which is funded through donor gifts and sponsorship contributions. You can find out more about the winning teams and their solutions to the 2023 Global Challenges: Financial Inclusion Learning for Civic Action Climate: Ecosystems + Housing Health in Fragile Contexts Indigenous Communities Fellows Solver teams are also eligible for investment from Solve Innovation Future, a first-of-its-kind philanthropic venture fund. Solve Innovation Future invests debt and equity into for-profit and hybrid Solver teams. Any returns are reinvested in future Solver teams, amplifying the impact of each donor contribution. Since inception, Solve Innovation Future has invested in 17 Solver teams, with every dollar invested catalyzing an additional four dollars of investment into those teams. Solve is excited to share the latest 2023 investees: Brastorne Ultranauts BunkerTrace Fazla Read Solve Innovation Future's annual report to learn more about the fund and investees. About MIT Solve: Solve is an initiative of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) with a mission to drive innovation to solve world challenges. Solve is a marketplace for social impact innovation. Through open innovation challenges, Solve finds incredible tech-based social innovators from all around the world. Solve then brings together MIT's ecosystem and a community of supporters to fund and scale these innovators to help them drive lasting, transformational impact. Join Solve on this journey at solve.mit.edu. Stay Connected Twitter | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube Media Contact Maya Bingaman Officer, Communications & Content maya.bingaman@solve.mit.edu ### SOURCE: MIT Solve View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784317/mit-solve-awards-over-15-million-in-funding-to-31-tech-based-innovators-addressing-global-challenges The event highlighted the rising importance of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in drug discovery. Genomic Vision actively engaged in networking, fostering new customers interested in GV technology and its applications in general. Genomic Vision's Replication Combing Assay (RCA) aligns with evolving biotech trends, reaffirming its commitment to advancing drug discovery and pharmaceutical efficiency. Regulatory News: Genomic Vision(FR0011799907 GV, the "Company"), a Euronext-listed biotechnology company that develops products and services for the highly accurate characterization of DNA sequences, was delighted to take part in the 20th Edition of the European Drug Discovery Innovation Programme held in Barcelona on September 12th and 13th This prominent event provided an invaluable opportunity for Genomic Vision's teams to reinforce a comprehensive understanding of customer demands in the quickly evolving pharmaceutical environment. It became evident that there is a very significant interest in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) within the drug discovery pipeline, highlighting their growing impact and importance in the industry. During this event, Genomic Vision engaged in meaningful interactions, fostering new interested customer, and participating in professional discussions. The company had the privilege of attending several highly informative conferences on the subject of AI and ML in drug discovery. These sessions were fully in line with Genomic Vision's commitment to staying at the front of the technology advancements and positioning itself as a key player in this dynamic industry. Indeed, Genomic Vision's innovative technology and its diverse range of applications are clearly associated with the evolving trends in biotechnology and the future of drug research. The company's participation in this event reaffirmed its dedication to facilitating advancements in drug discovery and enhancing the efficiency of pharmaceutical industry. Yann BENUREAU, Senior Scientist at Genomic Vision, said: "This event gave us the opportunity to showcase our technology and observe the keen interest it has generated in the scientific community to shape the future of drug discovery. Our commitment to continuous adaptation and innovation remains unwavering as we strive to meet the evolving needs of our customers and the pharmaceutical industry as a whole. ABOUT THE EUROPEAN DRUG DISCOVERY INNOVATION PROGRAMME The European Drug Discovery Innovation Programme is a prominent event in the field of pharmaceutical research in Europe. It brings together experts, researchers, and industry professionals to discuss the latest advancements, innovations and trends in drug discovery. This event provides a platform for knowledge exchange, professional networking, and thorough discussions on topics such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and other technological advancements crucial to the future of pharmaceutical research. It represents a significant opportunity for companies and researchers to stay at the forefront of innovation and contribute to the ongoing improvement of medical treatments. ABOUT GENOMIC VISION GENOMIC VISION is a biotechnology company that develops products and services for the highly accurate characterization of genome modifications. We deliver high-quality integrated genomic analysis solutions to improve quality control and bioproduction standards of advanced gene therapies at scale. Based on molecular combing technology and artificial intelligence, The Company provides robust quantitative measurements needed for high confidence characterization of transformed cell lines and prediction of cell line performance, in particular in the context of the biomanufacturing processes of cell and gene therapies. Genomic Vision's molecular combing technology has further applications in drug development of agents targeting DNA replication and damage response mechanisms, visualizing DNA replication kinetics and telomere length maintenance. Genomic Vision, based near Paris in Bagneux, is a public company listed in compartment C of Euronext's regulated market in Paris (Euronext: GV ISIN: FR0011799907). For further information, please visit www.genomicvision.com Member of the CAC Mid Small and CAC All-Tradable indices FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENT This press release contains implicitly or explicitly certain forward-looking statements concerning Genomic Vision and its business. Such forward-looking statements are based on assumptions that Genomic Vision considers to be reasonable. However, there can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements will be verified, which statements are subject to numerous risks, including the risks set forth in the "Risk Factors" section of the universal registration document filed with the AMF on April 28, 2023 under number D.23-0383, available on the web site of Genomic Vision (www.genomicvision.com) and to the development of economic conditions, financial markets and the markets in which Genomic Vision operates. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to risks not yet known to Genomic Vision or not currently considered material by Genomic Vision. The occurrence of all or part of such risks could cause actual results, financial conditions, performance or achievements of Genomic Vision to be materially different from such forward-looking statements. This press release and the information contained herein do not constitute and should not be construed as an offer or an invitation to sell or subscribe, or the solicitation of any order or invitation to purchase or subscribe for Genomic Vision shares in any country. The distribution of this press release in certain countries may be a breach of applicable laws. The persons in possession of this press release must inquire about any local restrictions and comply with these restrictions. Genomic Vision has set up a financing line in the form of convertible notes with warrants (OCABSA) with its Financing partner. The shares resulting from the conversion or exercise of the aforementioned securities will, in general, be sold on the market, which could create downward pressure on the share price as well as a dilution. Shareholders could therefore suffer a loss of their invested capital due to a significant decrease in the value of the company's shares. The company has carried out several dilutive financing operations, and investors are advised to be very careful before making a decision to invest in the company's securities. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918843917/en/ Contacts: Genomic Vision Aaron Bensimon Chairman of the Management Board Tel.: +33 1 49 08 07 51 investisseurs@genomicvision.com Ulysse Communication Media Relations Bruno Arabian Tel.: +33 1 42 68 29 70 barabian@ulysse-communication.com Consilium Strategic Communications International Investor Relations & Strategic Communications Tel.: +44 (0) 20 3709 5700 GenomicVision@consilium-comms.com NewCap France Investor Relations & Strategic Communications Tel.: +33 1 44 71 94 94 gv@newcap.eu The perfect choice for Organic September, Hispanic Heritage Month, National Mezcal Day, and Day of the Dead JACKSONVILLE, FL / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / One drink covers it all for Organic September, Hispanic Heritage Month, National Mezcal Day, and Day of the Dead: the #1 mezcal cocktail in America, Bosscal Mezcal's proprietary Mezgarita. Featured in more than 2,500 restaurants (and counting) across the America, the Mezgarita - a riff on the Margarita - is a familiar way to introduce Mexico's native spirit, mezcal. Bosscal Mezgarita: The Number One Selling Mezcal Cocktail in America The perfect choice for Organic September, Hispanic Heritage Month, National Mezcal Day, and Day of the Dead: A Bosscal Mezgarita is the perfect choice for: Organic September, as Bosscal Joven Mezcal is certified organic by the USDA, EU, and SAGARPA Mexico; Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct. 25), as the founders of Bosscal Mezcal - brothers Verne and Nelson Nieves - were raised in Florida by a mother exiled from Cuba and a father who immigrated from Uruguay; National Mezcal Day (Oct. 21); Day of the Dead (Nov. 1), a joyous Mexican holiday on which families visit cemeteries to decorate graves and honor their ancestors, often with mezcal. Consumers can order a Bosscal Mezgarita at these restaurants, among others, or make one at home (recipe below): Buffalo Wild Wings MGM Resorts Ruby Tuesday Carnival Cruise Lines PopStroke SSP America Airports Hooters Regal Cinemas Wild Wing Cafe The Bosscal Mezgarita Kosher salt or Tajin to rim the glass 2 oz. Bosscal Joven Mezcal 1 oz. freshly squeezed lime juice .5 oz agave nectar 1 oz. water Lime wheel for garnish Moisten the rim of a glass with a lime wedge, then invert the glass on a plate of Kosher salt or Tajin to rim, then add ice. To an iced mixing glass, add mezcal, lime juice, agave syrup, and water, then shake well and strain into the prepared glass. Garnish with a lime wheel. About Bosscal Mezcal (NOM D248G): Bosscal Mezcals are made with a trademarked Mountain to Market process, from only wild-grown Cenizo agave which is hand-harvested - and donkey-transported - from the Durango highlands to Bosscal's private distillery. A new agave pup is planted in place of every mature agave harvested; this initiative has cost the company $400K to date, but ensures future supply for both the local landowners and the brand. Bosscal has organic certifications from the USDA, EU, and SAGARPA Mexico, and currently offers three mezcals in the U.S. (all ABV 42%): Bosscal Joven (SRP: $44.99/750mL); Bosscal Damiana, a stimulant herb which grows alongside wild agave (SRP: $49.99/750mL); and the rare Bosscal Pechuga de Conejo (SRP: $99.99/750mL). The first Bosscal Mezcal was released in 2015; by 2022, the brand had achieved distribution in all 50 states; and in 2023 it was selected as part of Southern Glazer's Craft Collection Luxury Spirits portfolio nationwide. *The Mezgarita is a legally registered trademark belonging to Bosscal Mezcal and is offered exclusively to its customers. Contact Information Chrisitne Deussen Deussen Global Communicatons, Inc. cdeussen@deussenglobal.com Related Files Bosscal Mezgarita.jpg BOSSCAL LOGO_STICKER 03B.PNG SOURCE: Bosscal Mezcal View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784713/bosscal-mezgarita-r-the-number-one-selling-mezcal-cocktail-in-america Invigorate Education launches a comprehensive virtual tutoring program, specializing in Orton-Gillingham methods, to support students ages 5-14 with learning differences in reading, writing, and math. GREENSBORO, NC / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Invigorate Education is proud to announce the launch of its comprehensive virtual tutoring and intervention services geared towards supporting schools and students ages 5-14 with a range of learning differences. Invigorate Education specializes in reading intervention training, assessment, and curriculum development, specializing in Orton-Gillingham, a proven method for aiding students with difficulties in reading, writing, and math. The program is designed to assist students with diagnoses such as Dyslexia, Autism, Dysgraphia, ADHD, and Dyscalculia, among others. "We provide a holistic educational support system, addressing both academic and cognitive development," says Cassandra Reve from Invigorate Education. "Our services are not just for those diagnosed with learning differences. Any student who struggles with academic performance, and specifically in reading and all of its components can significantly benefit from our specialized approach." Not only are we addressing issues like decoding, fluency, writing, and comprehension; but we're also addressing issues like self-esteem, confidence, and group building. The virtual tutoring program is divided into three levels, catering to a multitude of reading levels and types of reading difficulties. By following a scope and sequence, weekly developed lesson plans, and local and national reading standards we provide an invaluable resource to schools looking to supplement their reading intervention programs and offer a tangible, scalable, and collaborative reading intervention program; not just random, fly-by-night, 1-on-1 tutoring. These levels are meticulously designed to address the unique challenges that each stage of reading presents from basic word recognition to more complex sentence structure and comprehension. In developing the virtual programs we've been sure to ensure that students have access to multiple instructors during sessions; and that all students are involved in both individual and group work during live sessions to encourage confidence and camaraderie during live virtual instruction. Invigorate Education also offers general and diagnostic assessments to all enrolled students. These evaluations provide a comprehensive understanding of a student's academic capability, helping to inform instruction and measure progress. School administrators, teachers, and parents/guardians are given access to students' records, including assessments, student portfolios, and student instructional materials. Invigorate Education's commitment to transparency ensures that all stakeholders have the necessary information to support a child's full academic journey. For years we over at Invigorate Education have trained teachers and provided leveled curriculums for use in schools throughout the United States. Our curriculums and Orton-Gillingham method-based training and instructional methods are currently being used in hundreds of schools in all 50 United States. For further information, please contact Invigorate Education at 336-790-8868 or general@invigorateed.com. About Invigorate Education Invigorate Education is dedicated to empowering students with learning differences through specialized tutoring and intervention services. We believe in the potential of every child and strive to provide them with the tools they need to succeed academically. Media Contact Organization: Invigorate Education Contact Person: Amanda Hunter Website: https://www.invigorateed.com/ Email: general@invigorateed.com Contact Number: 336-790-8868 City: Greensboro State: North Carolina Country: United States SOURCE: Invigorate Education View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/785195/invigorate-education-announces-comprehensive-virtual-tutoring-and-intervention-services Miami, Florida--(Newsfile Corp. - September 18, 2023) - In a startling legal battle, CFT Solutions, LLC ("CFT") and Renan de Rocha Gomes Bastos ("Bastos") have filed a lawsuit against FxWinning Ltd. ("FxWinning"), a Hong Kong-based online foreign exchange ("Forex") investment brokerage, alleging the wrongful withholding of more than $80 million of the plaintiffs' funds. The group of plaintiffs, CFT, and Bastos, have repeatedly sought the release of their funds from FxWinning, which has consistently refused their requests, leading to the legal action. This lawsuit shines a light on the complex world of online Forex trading and raises questions about FxWinning's operations. CFT Solutions, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company with its headquarters in Miami-Dade County, Florida, is one of the plaintiffs in this case. FxWinning Ltd., the defendant, is a Hong Kong-based company with a seemingly decentralized structure, maintaining workspaces in Cyprus, Dubai, and Miami-Dade County, Florida. David Marino is the Founder of FxWinning, Rafael Brito Cutie ("Cutie"), the Chief Executive Officer of FxWinning, is a non-party citizen of Cuba, residing in both Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Limassol, Cyprus. Roman Cardenas ("Cardenas"), the Vice President of FxWinning, is a non-party citizen of the United States, residing in Miami-Dade County, Florida. The court has subject matter jurisdiction over this lawsuit due to the substantial amount in controversy, exceeding $80 million. Personal jurisdiction over FxWinning has been established as it operates and conducts business in Florida and breached the contract in question within the state. Miami-Dade County is considered a proper venue as the alleged cause of action took place there. FxWinning is described as an online Forex investment brokerage with two websites, fxwinning.net and fxwinning.pro, providing customers access to their accounts. The company, founded in early 2020, boasts experienced financial market experts and touts its mission to provide exceptional services to clients worldwide. To fund their accounts with FxWinning, customers transfer cryptocurrency, which is then converted to United States Dollars ("USD") through a crypto-exchange in Dubai named Bybit. However, starting in February 2023, FxWinning allegedly began denying withdrawal requests from its customers, including the plaintiffs. In total, CFT and Bastos hold ten accounts with FxWinning, collectively valued at over $80 million, referred to as the "Withheld Funds." Despite numerous requests, FxWinning has refused to release these funds. The terms and conditions (T&C) of FxWinning, which customers agree to when creating accounts, reportedly provide no conditions on the plaintiffs' ability to withdraw funds. Contrary to its own T&C, FxWinning has allegedly refused to permit plaintiffs to withdraw funds from their accounts since February 3, 2023, leading to the denial of multiple requests and delays. FxWinning's actions have caused significant financial harm to the plaintiffs. The lawsuit's primary claim is for breach of contract. The plaintiffs argue that FxWinning materially breached its own T&C by refusing to release their funds, resulting in substantial damages. They are seeking compensatory damages exceeding $80 million, the return of the withheld funds, an accounting of all transactions related to these funds, disgorgement of ill-gotten gains, attorney's fees, costs, and interest. CFT and Bastos have requested a trial by jury for all issues that may be tried in such a manner, signaling their commitment to pursuing justice through the legal system not just in Miami but in Dubai, Hong Kong, and Brazil. This lawsuit brings into focus the challenges and potential risks associated with online Forex trading platforms and raises important questions about the accountability and transparency of such platforms. As the case unfolds, it will undoubtedly draw the attention of investors and regulators in the financial industry. FxWinning To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8700/180652_dbf38052143bab18_002full.jpg For additional information, please contact: Nick Betancourt 786.287.1725 nb@prai.us To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180652 Fairfax, VA, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Multiple national college rankings released in recent weeks have placed George Mason University among America's top 50 public universities, top 100 among all public and private institutions, and Virginia's No. 1 university for social mobility. Released today, U.S. News & World Report's Best Colleges 2024rankings puts Mason at #51 among all public universities and #105 among all universities nationwide. Mason retains its top 20 ranking position for innovation and improved to a top 50 (#49) university for veterans, according to these national rankings. "The rankings are confirming what we here at Mason and Virginians have known for some time; based on our performance, George Mason University is one of America's top 50 public universities," Mason President Gregory Washingtonsaid. "Further, today's rankings reflect the value and performance families are looking for from a college education, and Mason's year-over-year enrollment increases and placement of our graduates confirm that we are now a destination for graduates from Virginia and beyond." Overall rankings Mason is now a top 50 public university in the Wall Street Journal Best Colleges in the U.S.put Mason in a tie at #51ranked Mason 60th among public universities. Among all universities, both public and private, Mason earns a tied ranking of 105th from U.S. News (up from #137), 95th with the Wall Street Journal (up from #179 in 2021), 93rd with Forbes, and 91st with Washington Monthly (up from #94). Social mobility The most significant change in this year's rankings is the addition of social mobility factors to ranking methodologies, in recognition of growing public demand for more affordable, inclusive, and accessible universities. Mason places No. 1 in Virginia across all rankings that measure social mobility. Among public universities nationwide, Mason ranks #41 with the Wall Street Journaland #34 with Washington Monthly, both for social mobility, and #19 in the New York Times Top U.S. Colleges with the Greatest Economic Diversity. "All students deserve access to a college education and experience that will deliver on a promise to transform their lives and set them up for lifelong success. Mason delivers in access, innovation, excellence, and opportunity. We are not just in the education business-we are in the success business," added Washington. Other national recognitions These high-profile rankings follow other recent scores that highlight Mason for being one of America's most inclusive and welcoming universities. FIRE, the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, updated its rankings this month, naming Mason No. 8in the nation for First Amendment observation, up from 17th last year. Campus Pridealso gave Mason its "Best of the Best"designation again for offering safe and welcoming campuses to the LGBTQ+ community, one of just 30 universities in the nation and the only university in Virginia to earn this distinction. "The measurements of success are starting to change to favor institutions that are more inclusive and less exclusive," Washington said. "That adjustment is long overdue. Mason is all about helping hard-working students reach their Point B, no matter where their Point A happens to be." The university's total student enrollment has surpassed 40,000this year, a first for the Commonwealth of Virginia, including the largest freshman class in school history with 4,500 students. Mason's graduation rates are higher than the national average. In addition, 86% of recent graduates are employedin the greater Washington, D.C. area and 89% in positions related to their career goals. Currently, about one in four Mason students is in the first generationof their family to attend college, and a slightly higher percentage of Mason students qualifies for Federal Pell Grants, which are awarded to undergraduates with exceptional financial need. This year, U.S. News also ranked several of Mason's undergraduate programs in the top 100 nationally, including business, economics, psychology, computer science, and teaching. Over the years, Mason has been recognized in the numerous college rankings as Virginia's top public university for diversity, innovation, cybersecurity, homeland security, service to military veterans, and service to students outside the traditional college ages. Check out all of Mason's updated rankings: gmu.edu/news/rankings. About George Mason University George Mason Universityis Virginia's largest public research university. Located near Washington, D.C., Mason enrolls more than 40,000 students from 130 countries and all 50 states. Mason has grown rapidly over the past half-century and is recognized for its innovation and entrepreneurship, remarkable diversity, and commitment to accessibility. In 2023, the university launched Mason Now: Power the Possible, a one-billion-dollar comprehensive campaign to support student success, research, innovation, community, and sustainability. www.gmu.edu. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 18, 2023) - Romios Gold Resources Inc. (TSXV: RG) (OTCQB: RMIOF) (FSE: D4R) ("Romios" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, further to the Press Release issued earlier today, it is proceeding with the offering of a non-brokered private placement of up to 12,500,000 flow-through units (the "FT Units") priced at $0.03 per FT Unit, for up to $375,000 and up to 12,500,000 working capital units (the "WC Unit") priced at $0.03 per WC Unit, for up to $375,000 (the "Offering"). The Press Release issued earlier today erroneously priced the WC Warrant Shares at $0.08 rather than $0.05. Proceeds from the offering are expected to be used for exploration of the numerous Copper-Gold-Silver prospects at the Company's 'Golden Triangle' Properties in northwestern British Columbia, including the Trek South Property located along the southern border of the giant Galore Creek project co-owned by Newmont and Teck, as well as its Lundmark-Akow Lake Au-Cu property in Ontario and its Kinkaid Gold-Silver-Copper property in Nevada, and for working capital. Each FT Unit is priced at $0.03 and consists of one (1) flow-through common share and one-half (0.5) of a common share purchase warrant. Each full warrant ("FT Warrant") entitles the holder to purchase one (1) common share (a "FT Warrant Share") at a price of $0.05 per FT Warrant Share until the date which is twenty-four (24) months following the Closing of the Offering. Each WC Unit is priced at $0.03 and consists of one (1) common share and one (1) common share purchase warrant ("WC Warrant"). Each WC Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one (1) common share (a "WC Warrant Share") at a price of $0.05 per WC Warrant Share until the date which is twenty-four (24) months following the Closing of the Offering. Eligible Finders may receive up to 7% of the value of proceeds on the sale of the WC Units and FT Units in cash and up to 7% of the number of FT Units or WC Units sold in the form of broker warrants. Each broker warrant issued in relation to the sale of FT Units and WC Units ("Broker Warrants") entitles the holder to acquire one (1) common share of the Company at a price of $0.05 for twenty-four (24) months from the closing of the Offering. Funds will be used for exploration and working capital. All securities issued under the Offering are subject to a statutory four month hold period. The transaction is subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval. No funds from the sale of WC Units will be used for payments to non-arm's length parties or for investor relations activities. The funds from the sale of the WC Units will be allocated as to 80% for exploration of the Company's property in Nevada and 20% for general working capital. The Company did not proceed with the offering referred to in the press release dated July 21, 2023. This Offering has been priced based upon the current market price for the common shares of the Company. Insiders of the Company may subscribe for up to 25% of the Offering. The insider private placements are exempt from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 ("MI 61-101") by virtue of the exemptions contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1) (a) of MI 61-101 in that the fair market value of the consideration for the securities of the Company which will be issued to the insiders will not exceed 25% of its market capitalization. About Romios Gold Resources Inc. Romios Gold Resources Inc. is a progressive Canadian mineral exploration company engaged in precious- and base-metal exploration, focused primarily on gold, copper and silver. It has a 100% interest in the Lundmark-Akow Lake Au-Cu property plus 4 additional claim blocks in northwestern Ontario and extensive claim holdings covering several significant porphyry copper-gold prospects in the "Golden Triangle" of British Columbia. Additional interests include the Kinkaid claims in Nevada covering numerous Au-Ag-Cu workings and two former producers: the Scossa mine property (Nevada) which is a former high-grade gold producer and the La Corne molybdenum mine property (Quebec). The Company retains an ongoing interest in several properties including a 20% carried interest in five of Honey Badger Mining's claim blocks in the Thunder Bay silver district of northwestern Ontario; a 2% NSR on McEwen Mining's Hislop gold property in Ontario; a 2% NSR on Enduro Metals' Newmont Lake Au-Cu-Ag property in BC, and the Company has signed a definitive agreement with Copperhead Resources Inc. ("Copperhead") whereby Copperhead can acquire a 75% ownership interest in Romios' Red Line Property in BC. For more information, visit www.romios.com As part of our ongoing effort to keep investors, interested parties and stakeholders updated, we have several communication portals. If you have any questions online (Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn) please feel free to send direct messages. To book a one-on-one 30-minute Zoom video call, please click here. For further information, please contact: Stephen Burega, President and CEO - 647-515-3734 or sburega@romios.com This News Release contains forward-looking statements which are typically preceded by, followed by or include the words "believes", "expects", "anticipates", "estimates", "intends", "plans" or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance as they involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements and shareholders are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such statements. TSX Venture Exchange or its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) do not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. NOT FOR DISSEMINATION, DISTRIBUTION, RELEASE, OR PUBLICATION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES OR FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/181036 BRANFORD, CT / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Brandfon Honda, located on Route 1 in Branford, celebrates its 50-year anniversary this September. This month, the dealership will receive an award for selling Honda automobiles for 50 years from the American Honda Motor Company. Brandfon Honda is a multiple-time recipient of the coveted President's Award and Council of Excellence Award from Honda. The President's Award is presented to Honda dealerships that demonstrate superior achievement in customer satisfaction, new-car-unit sales volume and business management. The Council of Excellence Award is bestowed on dealerships with superior automotive financial services. Only the top 15 percent of Honda dealerships were recognized by Honda Financial Services as Council of Excellence achievers, making Brandfon Honda's finance and insurance team truly extraordinary. Brandfon Honda has also earned the respected 2023 Honda Environmental Platinum Leadership Award presented by the Honda Green Dealer Program. The award recognizes the dealership for measurably reducing the environmental impact of its business operations and achieving environmental improvement measures. Owner of Brandfon Honda Jeffrey Brandfon and his family have been in the automotive business for four generations and over 65 years. The family name is known and respected in the industry. Brandfon Honda is one of the oldest and most prestigious foreign car dealerships in New England. Jeffrey Brandfon attributes the dealership's success and longevity to his employees over the years. He proudly comments, "From customer-facing sales associates to the finance specialists, to the talented service team, reception, porters - every individual plays an important role. I thank everyone's combined efforts for getting the dealership to where it stands today." "I also believe that the automobile industry is all about relationships. It's about earning a customer's trust and nurturing that relationship for a lifetime," Brandfon adds. "I am so grateful to our loyal customers over the years. I am fortunate to have an outstanding team who works tirelessly for our customers every day." Contact the dealership at 203-481-1616 or www.brandfonhonda.com Contact Information Vlada Kolev Marketing vladak@keaadvertising.com 8452688686 SOURCE: Brandfon Honda View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/785222/brandfon-honda-celebrates-50-years-of-selling-hondas Vancouver, British Columbia and Johannesburg, South Africa--(Newsfile Corp. - September 18, 2023) - Platinum Group Metals Ltd. (TSX: PTM) (NYSE American: PLG) ("Platinum Group" or the "Company") reports the closing on September 18, 2023 of a non-brokered private placement of common shares at a price of US$1.18 per common share as previously announced on September 8, 2023. An aggregate of 2,118,645 common shares were subscribed for and issued to existing major beneficial shareholder, Hosken Consolidated Investments Limited ("HCI") through its subsidiary Deepkloof Limited, resulting in gross proceeds to the Company of US$2,500,001.10 (the "Private Placement"). Closing of the Private Placement allows HCI to return to a near 27% interest in the Company. The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Private Placement for its share of pre-development costs on the Waterberg Project in South Africa, and for general corporate and working capital purposes. Securities purchased pursuant to the Private Placement may not be traded for a period of four months plus one day from the closing of the Private Placement. The securities described herein have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 (the "Act"), as amended, and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of such Act. HCI is a "related party" of the Company (as defined by Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101")) and the Company intends to rely on the exemptions from both the formal valuation requirement and the minority shareholder approval requirement under sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a), respectively, of MI 61-101, on the basis that neither the fair market value of the subject matter of, nor the fair market value of the consideration for, the transaction, insofar as it involves HCI, exceeds 25 per cent of the Company's market capitalization calculated in accordance with MI 61-101. The Company did not file a material change report more than 21 days before the expected closing date of the above transaction as it has negotiated the above transaction on an expedited basis. About Platinum Group Metals Ltd. and Waterberg Project Platinum Group Metals Ltd. is the operator and majority owner of the Waterberg Project, a bulk underground palladium and platinum deposit located in South Africa. The Waterberg Project was discovered by Platinum Group and is being jointly developed with Impala Platinum Holdings Ltd., Mnombo Wethu Consultants (Pty) Ltd., Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security and Hanwa Co. Ltd. On behalf of the Board of Platinum Group Metals Ltd. Frank R. Hallam President and CEO For further information contact: Kris Begic, VP, Corporate Development Platinum Group Metals Ltd., Vancouver Tel: (604) 899-5450 / Toll Free: (866) 899-5450 www.platinumgroupmetals.net Disclosure The TSX and the NYSE American have not reviewed and do not accept responsibility for the accuracy or adequacy of this news release, which has been prepared by management. This press release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws and forward-looking statements within the meaning of U.S. securities laws (collectively "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, plans, postulate and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. All statements that are not statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, without limitation, statements regarding the use of proceeds of the Private Placement, and the advancement of the Company's objectives for the Waterberg Project. Although the Company believes any forward-looking statements in this press release are reasonable, it can give no assurance that the expectations and assumptions in such statements will prove to be correct. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Company are not guarantees of future results or performance and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including the potential inability to obtain required regulatory approvals and satisfy other applicable closing conditions including possible adverse impacts; the Company's history of losses and negative cash flow; the Company's properties may not be brought into a state of commercial production; uncertainty of estimated production, development plans and cost estimates for the Waterberg Project; discrepancies between actual and estimated mineral reserves and mineral resources, between actual and estimated development and operating costs, between actual and estimated metallurgical recoveries and between estimated and actual production; fluctuations in the relative values of the U.S. Dollar, the Rand and the Canadian Dollar; volatility in metals prices; the uncertainty of alternative funding sources for Waterberg JV Resources (Pty) Ltd. ("Waterberg JV Co."); the Company may become subject to the U.S. Investment Company Act; the failure of the Company or the other shareholders to fund their pro rata share of funding obligations for the Waterberg Project; any disputes or disagreements with the other shareholders of Waterberg JV Co. or Mnombo Wethu Consultants (Pty) Ltd.; the ability of the Company to retain its key management employees and skilled and experienced personnel; conflicts of interest; litigation or other administrative proceedings brought against the Company; actual or alleged breaches of governance processes or instances of fraud, bribery or corruption; exploration, development and mining risks and the inherently dangerous nature of the mining industry, and the risk of inadequate insurance or inability to obtain insurance to cover these risks and other risks and uncertainties; property and mineral title risks including defective title to mineral claims or property; changes in national and local government legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in Canada and South Africa; equipment shortages and the ability of the Company to acquire necessary access rights and infrastructure for its mineral properties; environmental regulations and the ability to obtain and maintain necessary permits, including environmental authorizations and water use licences; extreme competition in the mineral exploration industry; delays in obtaining, or a failure to obtain, permits necessary for current or future operations or failures to comply with the terms of such permits; risks of doing business in South Africa, including but not limited to, labour, economic and political instability and potential changes to and failures to comply with legislation; the Company's common shares may be delisted from the NYSE American or the TSX if it cannot maintain compliance with the applicable listing requirements; and other risk factors described in the Company's most recent Form 40-F annual report, annual information form and other filings with the U.S Securities and Exchange Commission and Canadian securities regulators, which may be viewed at www.sec.gov and www.sedarplus.ca, respectively. Proposed changes in the mineral law in South Africa if implemented as proposed would have a material adverse effect on the Company's business and potential interest in projects. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether because of new information, future events or results or otherwise. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/181029 SYDNEY, Sept. 19, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ExeQution Analytics, the specialist trading analytics company, officially launched this month to fill a gap in the analytics market with rapidly deployed, customised solutions for both buy- and sell-side firms. CEO Cat Turley said the company was launched to help institutions use data and bespoke analytics to make better trading decisions. "Every firm is unique in their flow and strategies, and off-the-shelf analytics simply can't explain the underlying drivers of performance," she said. "Firms are paying so much for data, it's imperative to capitalise on that investment with effective analytics." For buyside firms, this leads to lower implicit costs and improved ability to evaluate brokers and algo wheels. For the sell side, customised analytics help firms better understand and improve trading strategies to deliver better performance to customers. ExeQution Analytics foundation clients include a sovereign wealth fund and a Hong Kong trading bank. "The volume of data and complexity of trading has grown exponentially in the past ten years, yet innovation in trading analytics has not kept pace," Turley said. "As trading shifts towards more dynamic, learning-based models, understanding the incremental value of trader decisions, strategy behaviour and model outputs becomes increasingly critical. 80% of trading costs are implicit, and these costs can be dramatically reduced by proper analysis of trading patterns." With offices in Sydney and Hong Kong, ExeQution Analytics integrates the ExeQution Analytics Framework with client data and then builds bespoke analytics, visualisations and reports that traders, quants, IT and the C-suite can all use to understand exactly how every aspect of trading is performing, in real time and historically. Head of Strategy Rob Hodgkinson said that understanding proprietary data would become increasingly vital to trading firms as the data universe continues to expand. "I've been working in capital markets since 1979, and what I've seen over that time is that companies that invest in their own data capabilities are far likelier to outperform," he said. "These types of analytics systems are complex and slow to build internally, and resources are constantly in demand to meet day-to-day requirements. Cat and her team can build in weeks what would take an internal team a year or more, and ensure all the teams can use it pragmatically to optimise outcomes and reduce costs." For further information and interviews with Cat Turley: Kristin Westlake kwestlake@thecontinuumpartners.com +61 416 219 358 Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2213440/Cat_Turley_Headshot.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/exeqution-analytics-launches-custom-trading-analytics-service-301930470.html Boxbot, an Alameda, CA-based provider of a vertical automation solution that sorts and stores packages for last-mile carriers, raised $12M in Series A funding. The round, which brought the total amount to $29.5M, was led by Playground Global. Maersk Growth (the venture arm of A.P. Moller), Toyota Ventures, Pear Ventures, and Artiman Ventures also participated. Playground Global Venture Partner Richard Peretz, former CFO at UPS, will join the companys board of directors. The company intends to use the funds to expand operations and its business reach. Led by Founder and CEO Austin Oehlerking, Boxbot provides a proprietary software and hardware platform that transforms package handling by making ordinary conveyors three-dimensional. Its modular solution can store, sort, and sequence size-agnostic, high throughput payloads while requiring a minimal physical footprint. Storage density is maximized by dynamically adapting the space required for each payload in real time. The system is designed for flexibility and can be installed in both new or existing facilities. FinSMEs 18/09/2023 Le Petit Lunetier, a Paris, France-based eyewear brand, raised USD4M in Equity funding. The round was led by Neso Brands. Following the investment, Bjorn Bergstrom, CEO & co-founder of Neso Brands, and Peyush Bansal, co-founder of Neso Brands and CEO of the Lenskart Group, will join Le Petit Lunetiers board of directors. The company intends to use the funds to accelerate its expansion and solidify its brand presence in Europe, as well as introduce the brand to Neso Brands core markets in Asia and the Middle East. Founded in 2015 by former Google and Rad.co executive Jeremie Encaoua and optician Elie Attias, Le Petit Lunetier is a direct-to-consumer eyewear brand that offers fashionable designs without compromising on quality or price. As a licensed optician chain, customers are also able to make purchases of prescription lenses in-store that are reimbursable via French public health insurance. Although beginning as an online retailer, the company now also owns and operates 16 stores throughout France. FinSMEs 17/09/2023 Priyanka Chopra has reacted to the unfortunate turn of events that led to the death of Indian-origin woman, Jaahnavi Kandula. The 23-year-old, who hailed from Andhra Pradesh, died on 23 January after being struck by a Seattle police patrol vehicle in the United States. As a result of the gruesome event, the actress shared a post by People Magazine about Jaahnavi on her Instagram stories. She captioned the post, Its appalling to learn that such a tragic incident that happened 9 months ago is only coming to light now. A life is a life. One cannot put any value on it. In the latest, months after the tragic event, a recording from the body-worn camera shows two union leaders from the Seattle Police Department joking about her death, according to an NBC News report. The video which is now gaining traction shows Officer Daniel Auderer saying she is dead before bursting out into laughter. As per reports, the officer left his body camera on after responding to the South Lake Union area. As fate would have it, a marked patrol vehicle driven by Kevin Dave struck and killed Jaahnavi Kandula. Who was Jaahnavi Kandula? As per media reports, Jaahnavi Kandula was a resident of Andhra Pradesh in India. The 23-year-old student was pursuing a Masters degree from the Northeastern University campus in South Lake Union. She was set to graduate in December. Farhan Akhtar condoled Jaahnavis death Earlier, filmmaker-actor Farhan Akhtar also took to Instagram to extend his condolences. Calling Jaahnavi a student preparing to make a place for herself in the world, the 49-year-old described her potential as limitless and her value as immeasurable. Condolences to your family. RIP, wrote the Bhaag Milkha Bhaag star, adding a picture of Jaahnavi. Following Jaanhavis death, Northeastern University announced she would receive her degree posthumously. The university plans to award Jaahnavi her degree posthumously and present it to her family, the varsity stated on its Facebook page. The key announcement was made by Chancellor of the University, Kenneth W Henderson affirming that the ongoing investigation will bring a measure of justice and accountability. The Morning Show is real and it deals with the different crises the media is going through and we journalists can relate to it well. The craze for numbers and advertorials to keep the media houses running in times of financial crunches and most importantly it shows the importance of face value more than journalistic knowledge. All in the name of revenue earned. Sad scene when most journalists are getting demotivated who thought the pen is mightier than the sword. In the case of The Morning Show too television journalists are feeling sad when their arms are being twisted in the name of number game. And there is nobody to blame, not even the marketing department who are also under tremendous pressure of showing their bosses the revenue that they are able to earn from the shows. Jennifer Aniston as Alex Levy is brilliant. The Morning Show Season 3 continues to show the dirty power play in the newsroom. Its an intelligent show which carefully depicts the politics in the newsroom and how the newsroom is still filled with predators. Season 2 ended as Americas sweetheart and most loved co-host of The Morning Show, Alex Levy (Jennifer Aniston), battled COVID-19. Here in Season 3 she was supposed to be accompanying tech billionaire Paul Marks (Jon Hamm) on a trip to space in a rocket designed by him. When she realizes that its an advertising gimmick, she backs out and vanishes the night before the show. This is a classic case, when some might feel when anchors think themselves to be bigger than the organization. But my question is why are journalists not given the freedom to cover news and do meaningful stories. And thats exactly what Alex Levy (Jennifer Aniston) questions the editor of the show, how long are we going to be managed by the managers? On the other hand, Bradley Jackson (Reese Witherspoon), the other The Morning Show co-host is shown dealing with her own set of problems. She wants to do meaningful news and has been following up on a story in Texas laws on abortion. The Morning Show shows Jackson talking to a woman named Luna Garcia on the phone and saying, People have to know whats going on in Texas. Its so important. Bradley Jackson (Reese Witherspoon) wants to highlight the strict abortion laws in Texas. However, the company that she works for is not convinced as this is not considered to be an important piece of news for them when they are running at a loss. This is a show which also depicts the frivolous side of present day television media when all it matters is having a bunch of good looking people where an entire machinery is working towards dressing up the anchors to look drop-dead gorgeous! Rating: 3 out of 5 Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Filmmaker-producer Karan Johar, who directed Ranbir Kapoor last in the 2016 film Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, heaped praises on the actor for handling schedules on his own, without a manager or PR team. The events unfolded after the Kuch Kuch Hota Hai director was asked in a conversation with Mid-Day to shed light on differences between actors Ranbir Kapoor and Ranveer Singh. Speaking about the only common traits between Ranbir and Ranveer, KJo said that its their incredible talent. He further reiterated that beyond this, they couldnt be more different in their demeanor and work ethic. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sucharita Tyagi | Film Critic (@su4ita) On working without PR or a manager Karan Johar, while talking about Ranbir Kapoor termed the Animal actor possessing patience and self-reliance, which is uncommon in the industry. Calling Ranbir the most patient human being, KJo revealed that such is his patience that one can keep him waiting for 14 hours on set and he wont say a thing. Not just this, Karan Johar also shared how Ranbir focuses on one film at a time and handles his own dates. On managing his dates, the producer explained that Ranbir knows all about it. When one asks him for schedule, he opens his phone, which contains all of his own dates, brands, schedules, days off, and holidays. On playing a word game Karan Johar, while sharing an anecdote from the shooting days of Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, said how word-game is a fascinating aspect of Ranbirs process. In that, Ranbir would ask for a single word to encapsulate the essence of a scene, and that word would guide his performance. On enjoying his own company Karan Johar also shed light on Ranbir Kapoors ability to enjoy his own company, even while dining alone in restaurants. Sharing one such incident, the director, who is busy promoting his action-thriller Kill, said that finding Ranbir sitting alone at the restaurant he would ask, Why are you eating alone? To which, the Brahmastra star would say I want to eat my meal and go back to sleep. On the differences between Ranbir and Ranveer Karan Johar added that it is the stoic self-sufficiency encapsulating Ranbirs personality that sets him apart from Ranveer Singh. On the other hand, he called the Padmaavat actor an energetic force of nature. He further added that unlike Ranbirs studious approach, Ranveer, on his part, thrives on the energy of the world around him. While the Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani filmmaker called Ranveer Singh a directors actor, he revealed that Ranbir moves with detachment. In his remarks, the 51-year-old described both actors as unquestionably genius artists who leave a lasting impression on their viewers. At the same time, he added that Ranbir Kapoors methodical and introspective style is balanced by Ranveer Singhs dynamic and immersive approach. The encounter with terrorists in Kokernag of Jammu and Kashmirs Anantnag district has entered the sixth day. An intense gunbattle between Indian forces and Pakistan-backed terrorists has lasted more than 120 hours. Thousands of troops including para-military commandoes are involved in the search operation inside the forests of Gadol. The fighting started on Tuesday night and four security officials, including two army men, a soldier and a policeman, were killed in action while attempting to neutralise terrorists. Colonel Manpreet Singh, commanding officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Major Ashish Dhonchak, and Humayun Bhat, deputy superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police were killed by the terrorists on Day 1 of the encounter. Two more soldiers were injured and another is believed to be missing. Charred body found on Day 6 Security forces have reportedly recovered a charred body in the hilly forest area. However, they are yet to identify it. There is a likelihood that the body belongs to a terrorist based on the clothing pattern, according to a report in India Today. The search operation on Monday started in the early hours amid efforts to trace the bodies of a soldier and a terrorist, which were spotted using a drone. At least two to three heavily armed terrorists are hiding in the dense Gadol forests. They are reportedly trained in jungle warfare and using the forest cover to keep forces at bay and prolong the encounter, reports NDTV. This is a new pattern deployed by them to hide from security officials, say sources. Drones, mortar shells used in search op There was a gun battle between security forces and militants on Sunday, the fifth day of the encounter. Security forces encircled the hilly forest area and fire erupted near the terrorist hideout spot in Kokernag. Rains reportedly put out the blaze and hampered the onslaught. The area of operation has been widened to villages in the neighbourhood. The security cordon has been extended to the neighbouring Posh Kreeri area as a precautionary measure to ensure that terrorists dont slip into civilian habitation, the officials said, according to a report in News18. Several mortar shells and rockets were fired toward the forest area to flush out the terrorists. Indian Armys Heron drones and helicopters are being used for surveillance of the forest area, where terrorists are holed up. They are using several cave-like hideouts for cover. The advanced drones help in zeroing in on these locations and dropping explosives in places where the suspected terrorists are hiding. Explosions and heavy gunfire reverberate in the forests when the fighting intensifies. On Saturday, Armys Northern Command chief Lt General Upendra Dwivedi visited the encounter site. Ground commanders briefed him on the operation in which hi-tech equipment was being used for surveillance along with firepower along with the high impact of precision fire. Forces launched a massive assault with mortar shells. OP GAROL#LtGenUpendraDwivedi #ArmyCdr, Northern Command reviewed the operational situation on the ongoing operations at #Kokernag forest area in #Anantnag. He was briefed by the ground commanders on the High Intensity Operations in which Hi-tech Equipment is being used for pic.twitter.com/MggzlYb2Lh NORTHERN COMMAND INDIAN ARMY (@NorthernComd_IA) September 16, 2023 Meanwhile, on Saturday morning, security forces neutralised two terrorists in an encounter in J&Ks Baramulla district. The counter-terror op took place near the Line of Control in Uri. Also read: Drones, explosives & more: Inside J&K's Kokernag encounter as it enters Day 4 On Friday, Day 3 of the encounter, there were firing and blasts in the Gadol forest area. A drone footage surfaced showing a terrorist running for cover after a hideout was hit by shells fired by security forces. A soldier died of his injuries during the encounter, taking the death toll of security personnel to four. A resident of Gadol told Hindustan Times on Friday, that there was firing at intervals and the forest area was encircled by army, police and CRPF personnel. Throughout the night, the security forces had kept a close cordon around the forest, they said. On Thursday, police claimed to have encircled two Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists in the higher reaches of Anantnag district of south Kashmir. The launch of the operation The joint operation by the army and police was launched on Tuesday night after receiving intelligence inputs. The army was leading the troops and was on the lookout for terrorists in a hideout when the first gunbattle began. Also read: The many dark shades of the Kokernag encounter The terrorists appear to have anticipated the action and attacked the forces. Colonel Manpreet Singh, who was leading from the front, was killed in action along with Major Dhonchak and DSP Bhat. While the colonel died on the spot and the other two succumbed to their injuries in the hospital. Continuous heavy firing from terrorists made it difficult to evacuate those killed and injured. The terrorists are believed to be from The Resistance Front, a Lashkar proxy. They are trained in jungle and high-altitude warfare and seem to be prepared for a long fight. With inputs from agencies North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is on his way home from Russia. An unusual six-day visit by North Koreas leader, who seldom leaves the nation, underlines Pyongyangs pressing desire to strengthen ties with President Vladimir Putin and has fuelled Western suspicions that Pyongyang could give Moscow with weapons for its war on Ukraine. Kim Jong Uns visit to Russias far eastern region, which began last Tuesday, has been heavily focused on military cooperation, including a symbolic exchange of rifles with Putin and an inspection of state-of-the-art Russian weapons. Kim was also given explosive drones and protective clothes as a gift at the end of his visit. Lets take a closer look. Drones and bulletproof vest as gift North Korean leader Kim Jong Un received five explosive drones, a reconnaissance drone and a bulletproof vest as gifts from a regional governor on his visit to Russia, official TASS news agency said Sunday. Russias TASS news agency said that the leader of the DPRK received five kamikaze drones and a Geran-25 reconnaissance drone with vertical takeoff. The governor of the Primorye region, which borders China and North Korea, also offered Kim Jong Un a set of bulletproof protection and special clothing not detectable by thermal cameras, according to TASS. Kim concluded his tour to the Russian Far East on Sunday by boarding an armoured train in the city of Artyom, located north of the port of Vladivostok, and beginning the long journey home, according to Russian state media. Kim was observed leaving with the national anthems of both North Korea and Russia. Vodka toasts During his visit to Russia, Kim conducted inspections of Russian nuclear-capable strategic bombers, hypersonic missiles, and warships on Saturday. On Saturday, Kim met Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu in Vladivostok, where he viewed state-of-the-art weapons including a hypersonic missile system. The two were seen smiling as they examine some of Russias nuclear bombers at an airfield before boarding a warship. Later, the North Korean official agency KCNA published photos of Kim donning a traditional Russian fur hat and lifting a glass of vodka with Shoigu and their delegations. According to North Korean official media, Kim discussed increasing strategic and tactical coordination between the military of both the countries with Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu. Russian natural resources Minister Alexander Kozlov, who accompanied the North Korean leader on his final day, said a lot was discussed. Kim Jong Un was very interested in and paid attention to minute details, Alexander Kozlov said, as per a NDTV report. He made no mention of any military agreements, but claimed the two sides talked about expanding grain supplies and resuming regular air travel. According to him, the two countries also discussed resurrecting dormant infrastructure projects. Government officials from both nations have also agreed to meet in Pyongyang in November, according to Kozlov. Friendship, solidarity and cooperation Kim spent six days in Russia, where he met with President Vladimir Putin at the Vostochny spaceport. His first official tour overseas since the coronavirus pandemic has fuelled Western suspicions that Moscow and Pyongyang may violate sanctions and conclude an arms deal. Kims extended tour of Russias far eastern region, which began on Tuesday, has focused extensively on military matters, as evidenced by his own officer-dominated entourage, a symbolic exchange of rifles with President Vladimir Putin and a tour of a fighter jet factory in Komsomolsk-on-Amur. Moscow is believed to be interested in buying North Korean ammunition to continue fighting in Ukraine, while Pyongyang wants Russias help to develop its internationally condemned missile programme. The Kremlin has said no agreement has or will be signed. Kim also met with North Korean students studying in Vladivostok on Sunday. North Korean news agency KCNA has described the atmosphere during Kims visit as fervent and warm and said a new era of friendship, solidarity and cooperation was opening between North Korea and Russia. The trip raises concerns The United States and its allies are concerned about North Koreas growing military relations with Russia, particularly in light of Russias ongoing invasion of Ukraine and North Koreas advances in missile and nuclear development. Both South Korea and the United States stated on Friday that military collaboration between North Korea and Russia would violate UN sanctions against Pyongyang, and they promised to hold such activities accountable. According to a report in DW, South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol stated that the international community will unite more tightly to deal with Russia and North Koreas growing military cooperation. Russia, on the other hand, has raised the prospect of military cooperation with North Korea. According to Russian media, Moscow is diligently looking into the potential of joint military drills with North Korea. Shoigu had already visited Pyongyang in July, when he accompanied Kim to a weapons exhibition. With inputs from agencies The Central government may not bring the contentious Bill on the appointment and service conditions of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and other Election Commissioners (ECs) for discussion and passage during the ongoing five-day special session of Parliament. As per a report in NDTV, the Bill was missing from the list of eight Bills presented by the government to the Opposition at the all-party meeting on Sunday (17 September). The Centre is mulling amending the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023, sources told the news channel. Earlier, the proposed legislation was among the four Bills listed by the Lok Sabha Secretariat to be taken up in the special Parliament session. The controversial Bill was introduced in the Rajya Sabha on 10 August. What does the Bill say? Why are there concerns about it? We explain. What is the ECs Appointment Bill? The Bill plans to amend the salary, allowance, and service conditions of the CEC and two ECs to make it equal to those of a Cabinet Secretary. Currently, the Election Commissioners are at par with a Supreme Court judge in these facets. The proposed legislation will repeal the Election Commission (Conditions of Service of Election Commissioners and Transaction of Business) Act, 1991. According to Indian Express, while the salaries of a Supreme Court judge and the Cabinet Secretary are almost similar, the apex court judges get more post-retirement benefits, such as lifetime provision of domestic help and drivers. The Bill also seeks to form a selection committee comprising the Prime Minister as Chairperson, the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha and a Union Cabinet minister nominated by the PM to pick members of the Election Commission of India (ECI). Concerns regarding the Bill The Opposition has raised objections to the proposed Bill over the selection panel. As per the news agency PTI, several Opposition leaders dubbed the Bill anti-constitutional and anti-democratic at the all-party meeting convened by the government on Sunday. Official sources told the news agency that the government is reconsidering whether to push the Bill in the Lok Sabha during the special session. The Opposition, including Congress, Trinamool Congress, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Left parties, had caused a stir in the Rajya Sabha over the appointment of top poll body officials when the Bill was tabled by Union law minister Arjun Ram Meghwal in August, accusing the Centre of diluting and overturning the top courts order. In March, a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court said in its ruling that a panel comprising the PM, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, and the Chief Justice of India (CJI), shall select the CEC and ECs. However, the proposed legislation replaces the CJI with a Union Cabinet minister as a member of the selection committee. There are anxieties that the Bill would give an advantage to the ruling party at the Centre to pick the top election officials as the Cabinet minister would hardly go against the PM, making the LoPs views insignificant. Another contentious point in the Bill is the downgrading of the service conditions of the ECs to that of a Cabinet Secretary a bureaucrat. Being seen as the equal of a Cabinet Secretary means youre even below an MoS (Minister of State) in stature. How do you think that will play out when the Commission tries to discipline a Union minister for violations during an election, a source told Indian Express. The source said that when election commissioners summon government officers, their order seems to carry the authority of a Supreme Court judge. How do you think it will affect their (ECs) command and control if they are seen as equal to Cabinet Secretary, the source added. Since the CEC and the ECs will be equivalent to the Cabinet Secretary and not a judge of the Supreme Court, they may be treated as bureaucrats. It can be a tricky situation during the conduct of elections, a functionary was quoted as saying by PTI. Activists and civil society members have also questioned the Bill over the autonomy of the poll body. Speaking at a webinar organised by non-governmental organisations Satark Nagarik Sangathan and ANHAD on Sunday, former CEC SY Quraishi said the proposed Bill was defeating the purpose of a collegium and called its downgrading of the election commissioners as shooting ourselves in the foot. Quraishi told News18 that the proposed Bill would also lower the status of the election commission.The ECI has a very special constitutional role. Firstly, the CEC and Election Commissioners can take actions against the politicians. When you are equivalent to the Supreme Court judge, you have different authority and status but when you are a bureaucrat, it is totally different, the ex-CEC explained. Speaking to Indian Express, a former CEC said on the condition of anonymity that there was effective downgrading as the EC was put on the same pedestal as the bureaucracy. Calling it a dilution of the authority of the EC, the former CEC said that the political class cannot be disciplined by civil servants under the proposed legislation. Acknowlgeding the fears about the independence of the ECI, political analyst Sanjay Kumar pointed out that before the apex courts ruling, the Centre could essentially select the CEC and ECs. I dont think this change alone will lead to an end to free and fair elections. Largely elections have been free and fair. I dont buy this argument that entire elections are managed, he was quoted as saying by The Hindu. Meanwhile, as per Times of India (TOI), nine former CECs wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday urging him to stop the downgrade of the status of ECs to a Cabinet Secretary. Bringing their status down to that of a Cabinet Secretary will be somewhat anomalous in light of that constitutional provision (Article 325), they reportedly wrote. With inputs from agencies We are hours away from the special session of Parliament, which will begin today and run for the next five days, until 22 September. The session, called by the Centre, has created much buzz concerning the agenda and the purpose of the sitting. While the government has listed a discussion on the 75-year journey of the Indian Parliament since the first time it met in December 1946 and passage of other bills, the Opposition suspects that the Modi sarkar will throw a surprise, with Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury saying, Only the government knows what its intention is. It may surprise everyone with some new agenda. Incidentally, this is only the second special session of Parliament during the Modi governments tenure. The last one was held in June 2017 at midnight to mark the rollout of the Goods and Services Tax in a largely ceremonial session that had no other legislative business. From the legislative business to changing of venue the session will shift to the new Parliament building on Tuesday heres everything that we know of the special session and whats on the agenda. All about business Hours before the commencement of the special session, the government convened an all-party meet, informing the MPs of the agenda. It has been revealed that on Monday, the first day of the session, there will be a discussion on the Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha. This will include an analysis of Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings. Reports state that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the first speaker in the Lok Sabha on the topic while Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal will be the first in the Rajya Sabha. Parliamentary affairs minister Pralhad Joshi in the all-party meet convened on Sunday added that on Tuesday, 19 September, there will be a photo session in the old Parliament House at 9.30 am followed by a function in Central Hall at 11 am. After this, the MPs will enter the new Parliament building, which had previously been inaugurated by PM Modi in May. Also read: Special session of Parliament to begin on Monday: Whats in store? The function at Central Hall is to commemorate the rich legacy of the Parliament of India and resolve to make Bharat a developed nation by 2047. Joshi told the MPs at the all-party meet, The Parliament session will be held in the new Parliament House on 19 September and regular parliamentary work will begin from 20 September. When it comes to legislative business, the government has listed as many as eight bills for consideration and passage during the session. The most contentious of the legislations to be considered is the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023. This legislation seeks to change the method of appointment and conditions of service of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners. It seeks to replace the Chief Justice of India with a Cabinet minister in the panel for selection of the chief election commissioner and election commissioners, in a move that will allow the government to have more control in the appointment of members of the poll panel. The bill also said that salary, allowances and other service conditions of the CEC and ECs will be the same as that of the Cabinet Secretary, a change from their current parity with a Supreme Court judge. Critics have said it amount to diluting the authority of the poll watchdog. At the all-party meet, several Opposition leaders criticised the bill, which had been introduced in the Rajya Sabha on 10 August, calling it anti-Constitution and anti-democratic. Owing to this, sources were quoted as telling news agency PTI that there is a rethink in the government on whether to take up the bill for discussion and passage in the special session. Apart from this, theres also other bills to be taken up the Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2023; the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023; the Post Office Bill, 2023. During the all-party meeting, floor leaders were informed that an additional bill concerning the well-being of senior citizens and three bills related to the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribes order have been included in the agenda. However, theres been no mention of the One Nation, One Election bill from the list, or for that matter any discussion on the same during the all-party meet. Earlier, there had been a lot of conjecture that the Centre had called for the session to pass the One Nation, One Election legislation a move that has been backed by the PM in the past. There has also been no mention of the Womens Reservation Bill, despite rumours swirling that it could be discussed during the special session. In fact, several MPs across parties made a strong pitch for the passage of the womens reservation bill at the all-party meet on Sunday. BJP ally and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Praful Patel joined the Congress and its allies besides unaligned parties like the Bharat Rashtra Samithi, Telugu Desam Party and the Biju Janata Dal to urge the government to script history on the momentous occasion of Parliaments shift to the new building. Special session, new building Apart from the discussion on the 75 years of Parliament, the special session will also see a shifting to new premises the new Parliament building. Earlier, in May, PM Modi had inaugurated the premises in a grand ceremony. Preparing for this shift, Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar on Sunday hoisted the national flag at the new Parliament building. He was joined by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla as the flag was hoisted atop the Gaja Dwar of the new Parliament building. In the run-up to the shift, there has been a buzz at the new Parliament building and many changes have taken place. The parliamentary staff at the new building will don new uniforms, which have a floral motif. This design has kicked up a row, with the Congress calling it a cheap tactic to promote the ruling partys poll symbol the lotus flower. Also read: Centre calls special session of Parliament: How is it convened? Theres also reports that prior to the inauguration of the new building, a pooja (religious ceremony) is expected to be conducted on Ganesh Chaturthi. A surprise in the works Many Opposition and, some even within the BJP, are somewhat wary of the agenda of the special session. This is because the bulletin released earlier listing the agenda of the session was said to be tentative and not to be taken as exhaustive. Earlier, Congress Jairam Ramesh had said that the government could have legislative grenades up its sleeve. I am sure the legislative grenades are being kept up their sleeves to be unleashed at the last moment as usual. Parde ke peeche kuch aur hai! he said. His sentiments were echoed by Trinamool Congress Derek OBrien. There is a sinister line in the Parliament bulletin which says the statement not to be taken as exhaustive. This means the government can bring more bills. Why are they not taking Parliament into confidence. There is still no clarity, TMC leader Derek OBrien said. Theres also an argument over the Zero Hour; there will be no Zero Hour during the five days of the special session a move slammed by the Opposition. Zero Hour has only been dropped on a handful of occasions under extreme circumstances, including during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the Emergency era, and the 1962 Indo-China war. Some others within the Opposition camp has also called the special session a diversionary tactic. Earlier Congress Sonia Gandhi had written to PM Modi, listing nine issues including the violence in Manipur and wrestlers protest for discussion in the special session. It is unclear what will actually happen during the special session, but one can expect fireworks and the Centre clashing with the Opposition. With inputs from agencies Vivek Ramaswamy, a Republican hopeful for the United States presidential election, is making headlines with his opposition to the H-1B visa programme, saying he will finally fix it. The entrepreneur created a stir with his remarks on the temporary worker visas which are predominantly sought by Indian IT professionals. Speaking to Politico, the Indian-American GOP candidate said he would gut the H-1B visa programme if he won the White House race next year. Lets take a closer look at what Vivek Ramaswamy said about H-1B visas, what is the programme and how it affects Indians. Vivek Ramaswamy targets H-1B visas The Indian-origin Republican, whose company has used the progamme in the past to hire skilled foreign workers, told Politico that the H-1B system is bad for everyone involved and likened it to indentured servitude. The lottery system needs to be replaced by actual meritocratic admission. Its a form of indentured servitude that only accrues to the benefit of the company that sponsored an H-1B immigrant. Ill gut it, he said in a statement. The people who come as family members are not the meritocratic immigrants who make skills-based contributions to this country. As per the Politico report, Ramaswamys former company, Roivant Sciences, got approval from US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for 29 H-1B visa applications to hire foreign employees from 2018 to 2023. According to US Securities and Exchange Commission filings, as of 31 March, the pharma company and its subsidiaries had 904 full-time employees, including 825 in America. Reiterating his position today (18 September), Ramaswamy called the H-1B visa programme senseless in a post on X, formerly Twitter. Turns out I actually understand the things I want to reform: the foreign visa lottery is senseless & the H1-B regime is a form of indentured servitude thats a product of corporate lobbying. Ill finally fix it, he said. .@Politico tried to play gotcha by saying I want to gut the H1-B system even though my companies have used it to hire foreign graduates from top U.S: universities. Well, U.S. energy sector regulations are badly broken, but I still use water & electricity. Turns out I actually pic.twitter.com/EpbLY5S5Pc Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) September 17, 2023 What are H-1B visas? H-1B visas are non-immigrant visas that allow US companies to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations requiring theoretical or technical expertise. Under the H-1B visa category, employees are generally recruited in the fields of mathematics, engineering, technology, and medical sciences. IT companies in the US use the visa programme to employ thousands of high-skilled workers from India and China every year. Foreign employees are usually hired for a three-year period under H-1B visas, which can be later extended to another three years. Currently, the US issues 65,000 visas annually, along with 20,000 additional visas for foreigners who graduate with a masters degree or doctorate from America. There is a high demand for H-1B visas which often surpasses supply. For the fiscal year 2021, US companies submitted 780,884 applications for only 85,000 available slots, reported Politico. How gutting H-1B visas will impact Indians H-1B visas are quite popular among Indians. Indian workers got 72.6 per cent of the total 4.41 lakh H-1B applications approved by the USCIS in the fiscal year 2022, reported Times of India (TOI). The second was China, whose workers bagged 55,038 H1-B visas, followed by Canada at 4,235 successful applicants. Although it is restrictive, the H1-B programme ensures the company pays foreign workers the same wage rate as other employees with the same experience and qualifications, noted NDTV. According to the US government, India-based Infosys and Tata Consultancy Services, and American companies Amazon, Alphabet and Meta hire the most H1-B visa workers, reported Reuters. During Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to America in June, the US Department of State said it plans to launch a pilot to adjudicate domestic renewals of some petition-based temporary work visas later this year, with the aim to implement this for an expanded pool of H1-B and L visa holders next year. In July, Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi introduced a bill to increase the cap on the H-1B work visas, doubling it from the current 65,000 to 130,000 annually. When Donald Trump attacked H1-B visas Donald Trump also took a hard stance towards the H1-B visa programme during his 2016 presidential campaign. To limit immigration, his administration had temporarily suspended the H-1B visas and other types of foreign work visas in 2020. With inputs from agencies The CRPFs elite Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) unit has been deployed in Kashmir for the first time. The unit has received months of extensive training in the forests of Jammu and Kashmir, according to several media reports. The development comes in the backdrop of the operation to flush out terrorists holed up in the Gadole forest area of Jammu and Kashmirs Anantnag district entering its sixth day on Monday. But what is CoBRA? What do we know about the history of this elite force? Lets take a closer look: What do we know? The elite task force has been operating for nearly a decade and a half. It is tasked with undertaking intelligence-based jungle warfare operations. As per Hindustan Times, the union cabinet had first approved the formation of CoBRA units in 2008. The unit was first raised in 2009 under the CRPF. The Centre gave its approval to form 10 unattached battalions of CoBRA in CRPF with a Sector Headquarter for these battalions headed by an Inspector General. The raising schedule was: The raising schedule is given below 2008-09 : Two Battalions and Sector Hqrs, CoBRA 2009-10 : Four Battalions 2010-11 : Four Battalions The CoBRA Sector began functioning under the command of K Durga Prasad, IPS, IG. In March 2009, the Sector HQ shifted to Pushp Vihar, New Delhi . Since 2009, has been functioning at Old Secretariat, Civil Lines Delhi-54. The 10 CoBRA battalions comprise over 12,000 personnel. The teams are deployed in Left-Wing Extremist and insurgent-affected areas of Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Odisha, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya. Troops inducted in CoBRA units have to measure up to extremely difficult mental and physical parameters. According to the CRPF website, these troops are also known as jungle warriors. Their motto is victory for gallant in war. As per Hindustan Times, such units are trained to traverse 72 kilometres in a jungle in a day and return to their base after fulfilling their mission. They are also trained in helicopter- borne insertion. Prior to being formally inducted into a battallion, they are giving special training at a bootcamp in Karnatakas Belagavi. As per the CoBRA websits, its units have three characteristics: Courage Zeal Patriotism. CoBRA Sector is currently headed up by IG Rajesh Khurana. CoBRA is a highly decorated force. As per the website, its troops have been awarded 13 Shaurya Chakras Three Kirti Chakras Four PPMG 299 PMG 222 parakram padak Six jeevan raksha padaks 13,027 antarik suraksha padaks 3,628 DG Commendation discs. Sixty-eight of its personnel have been killed during operations. Since 2009, the unit has conducted 32,069 operations in which 359 Naxal/Insurgent were killed Another 3,020 apprehended 32 surrendered Another 1,477 types of arms, 54,669 different types of ammunition, 7,710 bombs/IEDs/grenades and 52,423 detonators were recovered from Naxals and insurgents. Till 2021, CoBRA till was an all-male force. In February 2021, a maiden contingent of 34 CRPF women personnel was inducted into the elite force. The CRPF in January 2021 had said it was mulling induction of women personnel in CoBRA. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has had women personnel in combat since 1986 when its first Mahila battalion was raised. It has six such units at present. The force, with a strength of about 3.25 lakh personnel, is the countrys largest paramilitary force and is designated as the lead internal security combat unit. Will be operating in all parts Officials said the CoBRA deployment in Kashmir is in line with the Centres strategy to use the force in regions where the government has revoked the Armed Forces Special Power Act. Hindustan Times quoted an official as saying, Some companies of CoBRA were partially relocated from Bihar and Jharkhand due to reduced instances of Naxal violence in those regions. Their training commenced six months ago in the jungles of J&K. CoBRA was set up at a time when Indias internal security was threatened by Naxal violence. Over the years, CoBRA teams have neutralised top Naxals. Their operations have led to decline in Naxal violence. They are experts when it comes to dealing with militants in jungle and hills terrain, the official added. The topography is similar in the northeast and J&K. They will be put to use in such places in the coming years. As CRPF has succeeded in making inroads in deep jungle areas, which were once Naxal hotbeds, and cases are decreasing, additional CoBRA companies will be brought to places in the northeast too, a second official told the newspaper. A senior CRPF official in Kashmir, speaking on condition of anonymity, told News18, Three teams will be operating and leading also soon in Srinagar along with Valley Quick Action Team. These teams reached Kashmir in May and got all the relevant and required training. Since they are already trained in jungle warfare, this would be an added advantage as no force has such experience operating in Kashmir. We have seen a shift also in terrorists activities and modus operandi, therefore, this bunch of commandos will be operating in all parts. With inputs from agencies A search operation is underway in the Kokernag woodland region of Anantnag district, where security forces and militants clashed on September 13. On the sixth straight day, the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police continued operations against militants holed up in the woodland region of Gadole in the Kokernag area of Anantnag district. Earlier on Saturday, 16 September, police reported a terrorist was killed by security personnel in an encounter in the Uri town of Jammu and Kashmirs Baramulla district. In a post on the social media handle X, Kashmir Zone Police said, One terrorist killed. Search going on. Further details shall follow. #BaramullaEncounterUpdate: 01 terrorist killed. Search going on. Further details shall follow. https://t.co/22dP32S8dT Kashmir Zone Police (@KashmirPolice) September 16, 2023 The encounter broke out in the Hathlanga forward area of Uri. As per officials, 2-3 terrorists are believed to be engaging security forces in the hilly terrain of Anantnag district. Sharing the statement of Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Kashmir Vijay Kumar, Kashmir Zone Police posted on micro-blogging site X a day ago, "Rtd Police/Army officers should avoid the Ambush Hypothesis. It is a specific input based ops. Ops are in progress, and all 2-3 trapped terrorists will be neutralised." #KokernagEncounterUpdate: Rtd Police/Army officers should avoid Ambush Hypothesis. It is a specific input based ops. Ops is in progress and all 2-3 trapped terrorists will be neutralised: ADGP Kashmir Kashmir Zone Police (@KashmirPolice) September 15, 2023 The Army has maintained a tight cordon-off in the area, they said. Meanwhile, a soldier who had been reported missing on Thursday lost his life in the ongoing encounter, officials said on Friday. "One more soldier has lost his life in the Anantnag operations. He had been reported missing since yesterday (Thursday)," Security officials said. A key meeting of the Union Cabinet that has been called on the first day of the Parliaments five-day special session has begun, according to people aware of the development, though the agenda for the meeting is still not clear. Several important meetings are being held in the Parliament premises ahead of the cabinet meeting. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi met Home Minister Amit Shah. BJP chief JP Nadda was also present in the meeting. Goyal and Joshi are also scheduled to meet PM Modi. A list of eight bills which will be taken up for discussion in the special session was given to the opposition by the Union government in an all-party meeting on Sunday. The controversial bill for the appointment of election officers, which was previously believed to be part of the agenda, has been scrapped amid protests by the opposition parties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi began the discussion on the Parliamentary journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha achievements, experiences, memories and learnings in the Lok Sabha on Monday. The Prime Minister referred to the Parliament shifting to the new building on Tuesday and said bidding goodbye to this building is an emotional moment. Referring to the era of former PM Jawaharlal Nehru and Lal Bahadur Shastri to Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh, PM Modi said that they have given new direction to the country under their able leadership and today is an occasion to highlight their achievements. The five-day special session of the Parliament started earlier on Monday with an address by PM Modi in the Lok Sabha. He spoke about significant historical events that have taken place in the old premises of the Parliament, and said that even though House proceedings will move to the New Parliament building tomorrow, the old building will continue to inspire generations. Floor leaders of INDIA bloc met at LoP Mallikarjun Kharges chamber in Rajya Sabha ahead of the start of Parliament Special Session on Monday. #WATCH | A meeting of Floor leaders of the INDIA alliances parties is underway at LoP in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharges office in Parliament House to chalk out the strategy for the Floor of the House. (Source: AICC) pic.twitter.com/LkWL1VNzlp ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2023 The five-day special session of Parliament is all set to begin on Monday during which the parliamentary proceedings will shift from the old to the adjacent new state-of-the-art building on September 19. Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi on Sunday stated that the Session will provide 5 sittings spread over a period of 5 days, besides informing that eight legislative items are likely to be taken up during this session. Parliamentary journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha achievements, experiences, memories and learnings will also be discussed. On Sunday, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar hoisted the national flag atop Gaja Dwar of the new Parliament building. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla was also present on the occasion. The Special Session of the Parliament will be held from September 18 to 22. After weeks of no information about the agenda, the government last week announced an agenda that included bills to be taken up for consideration and a discussion on the Parliamentary journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha achievements, experiences, memories and learnings. Earlier, on Sunday, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Joshi requested all parties for active cooperation and support for the smooth functioning of the two Houses of Parliament. With inputs from ANI Prime Minister Narendra Modi recalled former Prime Ministers including Dr. Rajendra Prasad and Indira Gandhi, saying that from the Green Revolution and emergency to the creation of Bangladesh, this parliament witnessed everything. Jawaharlal Nehru and subsequent leaders, including Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Lal Bahadur Shastri, P V Narasimha Rao, Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Indira Gandhi Addressing the Special Session of Parliament on Monday, PM Modi said It was this Parliament that saw the Bangladesh Liberation movement and its support under the leadership of Indira Gandhi. It was the same Parliament that also witnessed the attack on democracy during the Emergency, says PM Modi in Lok Sabha. This House also supported the liberation of Bangladesh under the leadership of Indira Gandhi, he said. At the same time, this House also witnessed an attack on democracy during the Emergency and through this House, the people also asserted their power as we saw the return of democracy, Modi added. VIDEO | It was this Parliament that saw the Bangladesh Liberation movement and its support under the leadership of Indira Gandhi. It was the same Parliament that also witnessed the attack of democracy during the Emergency, says PM Modi in Lok Sabha. #ParliamentSpecialSession pic.twitter.com/fOol7cvV9l Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 18, 2023 PM Modi also reminisced about former Prime Ministers including Jawahar Lal Nehru and Atal Bihari Vajpayee while addressing the Special Session of Parliament on Monday. The echo of Pandit (Jawaharlal) Nehrus at the stroke of midnight in this Parliament will continue to inspire us. And this is that very Parliament where Atal Ji said sarkaren ayyengi, jayengi; partiyan banegi, bigedgi; magar ye desh rahna chahiye, he said. A 20-year-old Muslim woman from Delhi was arrested in Bareilly for allegedly offering namaz inside a temple that was later seen as offensive to the temples religious sentiments. For this act the woman along with her step mother, with whom she made the visit to the temple have been charged with criminal conspiracy and outraging religious sentiment as the manner in which she prayed at the temple was seen as offensive to the temples religious sentiments. The young woman, who resides in Delhi with her brother, had come to Bareilly to visit her father, as she was unwell and conventional medicine had not provided relief. Her step-mother suggested a visit to the nearby temple as an alternative remedy. On Saturday evening, as she entered the temple with her step-mother, someone recorded a video and shared it on social media, claiming that she was offering namaz inside the temple. A right-wing group subsequently filed a police complaint, leading to the arrest of the young woman, her step-mother, and a local resident. They have been charged under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 295A (outraging religious sentiment), 120B (criminal conspiracy), and 153A (promoting enmity between different groups). In one of the widely-shared videos, the women can be seen in the temple, apparently praying while standing in a manner resembling Islamic tradition. In a separate clip, the young woman is observed bowing before a Shiva idol with a group of people present. Breaking Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh Muslim woman offered namaz in Hindu Shiva temple. After getting the information, Hindu organizations protested in large numbers. pic.twitter.com/pKVOanKnfu Izlamic Terrorist (@raviagrawal3) September 16, 2023 Mukesh Chandra Mishra, the Assistant Superintendent of Police (rural), commented on the situation, saying, Two women were found offering namaz inside an ancient Shiva temple in Kesarpur village under Bhuta police limits on Saturday. A complaint was lodged, and the police immediately registered an FIR. Regarding the second video, he mentioned, The complainant didnt provide us with the second video. Well check if more videos are available and consider them during our probe. Farman Hasan Khan, the General Secretary of the nearby Dargah Aala Hazrat, urged for a thorough investigation, stating, Police should conduct a comprehensive inquiry before sending anyone to jail. Ill meet senior officials and request an impartial investigation. The womans brother defended his sister, saying, My sister is not well, and my mother took her to Bareilly for treatment, where she was made to worship in a temple by being told that this is the only way to cure her. My sister is not a criminal, and she shouldnt be sent to jail. She is only a patient. Indian democracy will embark on a new journey Tuesday on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi as Parliament will sit in the new building. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the first day of the Special Parliament Session, opened the debate on the 75 years of the Indian Parliament as he bid an emotional goodbye to the old parliament building constructed in the British era. In his speech, Modi mentioned the many achievements that the old building has achieved through its glorious past, the adoption of the Indian Constitution is one of them. The old Parliament building was designed by British architects Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker and was constructed in 1927. It is now over 90 years old. Modi reminisced about former Prime Ministers including Jawahar Lal Nehru and Atal Bihari Vajpayee while addressing the Special Session of Parliament on Monday. PM Modi said The echo of Pandit (Jawaharlal) Nehrus at the stroke of midnight in this Parliament will continue to inspire us. And this is that very Parliament where Atal Ji said sarkaren ayyengi, jayengi; partiyan banegi, bigedgi; magar ye desh rahna chahiye. The new parliament building was inaugurated by the prime minister in May this year. What will happen to the old Parliament building? As per government sources, the 96-year-old parliament building will not be demolished. It would instead be retrofitted to make more space for parliamentary events. The historic structure will be conserved, as it is an archaeological asset of the country, sources told NDTV. In 2021, Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri told the Rajya Sabha that the existing structure would be repaired and used for alternative purposes. Some sources also suggest that the old parliament building will be turned into a museum. Addressing the Special Session of Parliament, PM Modi on Monday said that it is time to remember inspirational moments associated with this Parliament building before we move to new premises. He also said that this is the time to move forward while remembering the parliamentary journey of 75 years. Before Independence, this Parliament was the place of imperial legislative council. After the Independence, it got the identity of Sansad Bhawan. While it is true that constructing this building was the decision of the foreign rulers, but we can never forget and can say it proudly that the sweat, hard work and money used in building it was of my countrymen, said PM Modi in Lok Sabha. VIDEO | Before Independence, this Parliament was the place of imperial legislative council. After the Independence, it got the identity of Sansad Bhawan. While it is true that constructing this building was the decision of the foreign rulers, but we can never forget and can say pic.twitter.com/SvaBunb19E Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 18, 2023 Remembering his initial days at the parliament, he said, When I first entered this building (Parliament) as an MP, I bowed down and honoured the temple of democracy. It was an emotional moment for me. I could have never imagined that a child belonging to a poor family, living on the railway platform would ever be able to enter the Parliament. I never imagined that I would get so much love from people. #WATCH | Special Session of the Parliament | Prime Minister Narendra Modi says When I first entered this building (Parliament) as an MP, I bowed down and honoured the temple of democracy. It was an emotional moment for me. I could have never imagined that a child belonging to pic.twitter.com/dyII15pUrG ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2023 On the success on the G20 Summit, PM Modi said, India will be proud that when it was the president (of the G20), the African Union became its member. I cannot forget the emotional moment that when the announcement was made, African Union President said that perhaps he will break down while speaking. You can imagine the fortune India had the fortune to fulfill such a huge hopes and expectationsIt is Indias strength that it (unanimous Declaration) became possibleUnder your chairmanship the P20 Summit of G20 Parliament Speakers you announced, will have our full support. #WATCH | Special Session of Parliament | In Lok Sabha, PM Modi says, India will be proud that when it was the president (of the G20), the African Union became its member. I cannot forget the emotional moment that when the announcement was made, African Union President said that pic.twitter.com/ISk87e0ccN ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2023 The success of the G20 is the success of 1.4 billion countrymen, it is not the success of any party or individual, PM Modi added. #WATCH | Special Session of Parliament | In Lok Sabha, PM Modi says, Today, you have unanimously appreciated the success of G20I express my gratitude to you. G20s success is that of 140 crore citizens of the country. It is Indias success, not that of an individual or a pic.twitter.com/Rlsi8RyT4E ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2023 PM Modi also congratulated scientists for the success of Chandrayaan-3. VIDEO | I once again congratulate our scientists and praise them (for the success of Chandrayaan-3), says PM Modi in Lok Sabha. #ParliamentSpecialSession pic.twitter.com/fkSyGkF0dr Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 18, 2023 Earlier, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modis visionary leadership for success of G20 Summit. He said, PM Modis vision and guidance led to consensus on even sensitive issues in the New Delhi Declaration issued by G20 leaders. India emerged as voice of peace and restraint in the world during G20 Summit, he added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and following leaders like Lal Bahadur Shastri, P V Narasimha Rao, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee on Monday, but also reminded the Lok Sabha of the cash-for-vote fraud under the Manmohan Singh regime. When he opened the Lok Sabha debate on Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings, Modi noted that while there were widespread celebrations when the three new states of Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, and Chhatisgarh were established under Vajpayees leadership, the creation of Telangana from Andhra Pradesh resulted only in resentment and bloodshed in both states. Pandit Nehru spoke at the stroke of midnight hour in this Parliament, and his words continue to inspire everyone, he remarked. #WATCH | Special Session of the Parliament | Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, The echoes of Pandit Nehrus At the stroke of the midnight in this House will keep inspiring us. In this House itself, Atal ji had said, Sarkarein aayegi-jaayegi, partiyan banegi-bigdegi, pic.twitter.com/MdYI4p6MfC ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2023 The greatest success of these 75 years has been that the ordinary person's faith in Parliament has grown, Modi said, wishing that when Parliament moves to its new edifice on Tuesday, it will be the dawn of fresh hope and confidence. Modi said that it is also an opportunity to thank everyone who has led this House and expressed their vision for India, from Pandit Nehru to Vajpayee. He also recalled Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Chandrashekhar, and Lal Krishna Advani for enriching the House. The prime minister also praised B R Ambedkar's work, adding that his vision for industrialization, which was aimed at delivering social justice to the country during the first administration of independent India, is still at the core of every industrial strategy today. At the same time, he said, there have been sad and emotional times in Parliament when three serving prime leaders -- Nehru, Shastri, and Indira Gandhi -- died and were lavishly honoured. "This House also supported the liberation of Bangladesh under the leadership of Indira Gandhi," he said. The Prime Minister also referred to the success of the G20 Summit held in the national capital earlier this month. "Today, the achievements of all Indians are being discussed everywhere. This is the result of our united efforts during the 75 years of the history of our Parliament. The success of Chandrayaan-3 has not only made India but the world proud. This has highlighted a new form of India's strength which is connected to technology, science, potential of our scientists and the strength of the 140 crore people in the country. Today, I again want to congratulate our scientists," he said. #WATCH | Special Session of the Parliament | Prime Minister Narendra Modi says "...Today, the achievements of all Indians are being discussed everywhere. This is the result of our united efforts during the 75 years of the history of our Parliament. The success of Chandrayaan-3 pic.twitter.com/rGzgUAhBCX ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2023 At the same time, this House experienced an attack on democracy during the Emergency, and the people reasserted their authority via this House as we watched the restoration of democracy, Modi remarked. The Union cabinet has reportedly approved a bill that would guarantee women receive 33% of the seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assembly. According to an NDTV report, the decision was taken during the Union cabinet meeting on Monday evening but the government is yet to make an announcement about it and skipped the usual briefing that follows the cabinet meeting. The prime ministers statement earlier today that historic decisions would be made in this extraordinary session had stoked curiosity in the meeting. A number of significant talks were place beforehand as well; Home Minister Amit Shah met with Ministers of Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi and Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal. JP Nadda, the head of the BJP, attended the meeting as well. There was talk that the cabinet might take decisions on several key issues, including a change to the name of the nation, a reserve for women or Other Backward Classes, and One Nation One Election. After the meeting, there were hopes for clarity, but the tension persisted when the government skipped the expected briefing. (With agency inputs) A plan for an attack went wrong in a surprising twist. Thugs, hired by a woman to burn her estranged sons motorbike, are said to have attacked and damaged her home following a dispute over the money she owed them for their illegal deed, according to the police on Monday. This incident occurred in Melattur, a town in the northern Kerala district, last Friday. The authorities reported that three individuals, namely Kaja Hussain (aged 39), Nasser (aged 35), and Mehaboob (aged 58), who allegedly assaulted and vandalised the home of a 48-year-old woman named Nafeesa, have been apprehended. Another suspect, Shihab (aged 36), is currently on the run. The police explained that Nafeesa had enlisted the services of these individuals approximately two months ago due to family disputes. She had requested her son to return the motorcycle she had bought for him, but when he refused, she supposedly hired the thugs to set it on fire. The police subsequently arrested the three individuals, along with Nafeesa, in connection with this case. Now, after the thugs were released on bail, it appears they had a disagreement concerning the payment promised by the woman, stated the police. They further noted that the accused individuals have criminal records and will soon face charges under the Kerala Anti-social Activities (Prevention) Act (KAAPA). (With inputs from agencies) In a rather unusual development, Lt Gen Nadeem Ahmed Anjum, Punjab Regiment, DG, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), who was slated to retire in mid-September 2023, has been given an extension for an additional one-year tenure. Only two other chiefs of ISI have been given extensions in the past one, the ubiquitous Gen Akhtar Abdul Rehman, who held rein for seven long years (1980-1987), almost entirely handling Pakistans Afghan policy during the Soviet invasion; and two, Lt Gen Ahmed Shuja Pasha, whose extension (2011-12) under Gen Kayanis tenure as Army Chief created heartburn among peers and caused him to exit in somewhat controversial circumstances. Three other Lieutenant Generals of the Pakistan Army retired this month (mid-September 2023) amid media silence, even as Army Chief Gen Asim Munir undertook an official visit to Turkey (13-15 September). Among those retiring are Lt Gen Muhd Aamer, Artillery, Corps Commander, XXX Corps, Gujranwala, 76th Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Long Course, Lt Gen Chiragh Haider, Frontier Force Regiment (FFR), 18th Officers Training School (OTS) course, presently Director General, Training & Evaluation (DG, IET) at General Headquarters (GHQ), and Lt Gen Khalid Zia, Punjab Regiment, Military Secretary, 77th PMA Long Course. The three-star retirements and reshuffle of Lieutenant Generals are still incomplete as key slots of Military Secretary and Corps Commander, XXX Corps, Gujranwala, remain to be filled and promotions of 4-5 Major Generals to three-star rank are yet to be announced. A lot of rumours surfaced in the buildup to the retirement, about Lt Gen Anjums extension. He was perceived to have stood solidly behind Gen Munir during and after the 9 May anti-army disturbances, instigated by former prime minister Imran Khan and carried out by hordes of the Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI)s unruly supporters, including women relatives of high elite and retired army officers. It was being surmised that Anjum could continue to play a vital role in the ensuing political engineering in which the army leadership will have to perforce engage in, to bring about a desired hung parliament outcome when the next elections are held, possibly early next year. However, there were reports of Anjums differences with Maj Gen Faisal Naseer, DG (Counterintelligence) in ISI, another well-known Asim Munir acolyte, who has been at the hub of moves to scuttle Imran Khans support base in Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI). These differences seem to have been swept under the carpet for now. Both of them remain controversially implicated in the inquiries connected to the case of slain journalist, Arshad Sharif, killed mysteriously in Kenya in October 2022. His mother has accused both ISI officials of involvement in the killing, though nothing conclusive has been proved so far. Ever since he took over as chief last November, Asim Munir has had to deal with a pack of Lieutenant Generals promoted by his outgoing predecessor, Gen Bajwa, at the last minute. This dilemma became evident when Asim Munir replaced newly promoted Lt Gen Nauman Zakaria, Armoured Corps, from the important X Corps command, Rawalpindi, to a comparatively insignificant slot of Chief of Logistics Staff (CLS) at General Headquarters (GHQ), bringing in Lt Gen Shahid Imtiaz, Azad Kashmir regiment (121st OTS), in his place. Shahid Imtiazs name did the rounds again recently, as a possible replacement for Lt Gen Nadeem Anjum at ISI. Since then, Asim Munir has been able to promote only two Major Generals to three-star rank, both from the 82nd PMA Long Course, Lt Gen Muhd Shahbaz Khan, Artillery, posted as Commander, Strategic Forces Command at GHQ, Rawalpindi, and Lt Gen Rahat Naseem Khan, Frontier Force Regiment, who was upgraded as President of the National Defence University (NDU) where he was already serving as Chief Instructor. In this backdrop of possible persisting disquiet among retired army and serving middle-level officers, the COAS perhaps felt the loyalty displayed by Nadeem Anjum had made him indispensable for the moment. In July 2023, 30 Brigadiers were promoted to Major General rank. Most of them were from the 90th PMA Long Course. They included five from the Armoured Corps, four from Artillery, 12 from Infantry (Punjab Regiment 5, Baloch Regiment 2, Frontier Force Regiment- FFR 3, Sindh Regiment 1, Northern Light Infantry 1), one from Air Defence and two from the Electrical Mechanical Engineers (EME). Six Officers were promoted from the Army Medical Corps (AMC). No one among those promoted was from the Officers Training Scheme (OTS) stream (Asim Munirs parent stream). Among those picking up two-star rank were two recently returned Defence Attaches, including one from Pakistans Embassy in China, Maj Gen Shahid Amir Afsar. He has been slotted in the crucial Deputy Director General, Analysis post (DDG-A) in ISI, which was lying vacant after Maj Gen Shakirullah Khattak, Armoured Corps, was moved as Chairman, Heavy Industries, Taxila (HIT). Seven others have been sent out as new Division Commanders to Infantry, Armoured Corps and Artillery units in the field. Asim Munir used the Brigadiers promotion to unobtrusively fill up vacancies caused by the easing out of Division Commanders of 10 and 11 Divisions in Lahore, who were deemed discredited due to their inaction on May 9. The new Lahore Division Commanders (always considered crucial charges in career management) are not from among the newly promoted lot of Brigadiers but more senior officers. Muhd Shuja Anwar, Artillery, moves from 21 Div, Pano Aqil as GoC, 11 Div. Lahore (replacing Maj Gen Malik Amir Muhd. Khan, FFR). Maj Gen Shoaib bin Akram, FFR, moves from the post of DG, Security & Counter Terrorism at GHQ as the new GoC, 10 Div. Lahore (replacing Maj Gen Qaiser Suleiman). Shoaib is from the same unit as the Army Chief, 23 FFR, and is placed now as a trusted junior in a key slot. The next set of retirements of three-star Generals takes place in November 2023 when two Lieutenant Generals are slated to bid adieu, including Asim Munirs trusted aide, Lt Gen Muhd Saeed, Sindh Regiment (19th OTS). After Nadeems extension, there may be pressure on the COAS to accommodate another loyalist. After this, there is a one-year time lag, till November 2024 when six more Lieutenant Generals will retire. The Army Chiefs Turkey visit, which may have delayed the reshuffle, is significant. Apart from the usually acclaimed formal functions of Gen Munir calling on Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, which was covered with fanfare in an Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) press release (No. 143/2023 dtd 13.09.23), one of Pakistans main purposes during this visit may have been the need to seek a more purposeful defence relationship with Turkey. After the grounding of Pakistans entire JF 17 fleet for over a year due to technical problems and issues with the Chinese over resolving the defects, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) is now keen to cooperate with Turkey for the development of a fifth-generation aircraft, which may have figured in the discussions. The writer is a former special secretary, Cabinet Secretariat. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Pointing out that the ruling BJP at the Centre was planning to bring forward the Lok Sabha elections, Bihar Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar on Monday said, Humlog har samay taiyyar hai. (We are always prepared). The JD(U) leader, who had snapped ties with BJP a year ago and has played an instrumental role in bringing various opposition parties together to form the INDIA bloc, also asserted that the multi-party alliance was intact, dispelling speculations of internal rift. I have been saying that the NDA government at the Centre is planning to hold early Lok Sabha polls. Humlog har samay tayyar hai (We are always ready) Let them hold it early, Nitish Kumar told reporters in Patna. The Chief Minister made the remark in reply to questions from journalists who sought his views on the possibility of the Lok Sabha polls being brought forward by the Center. Nitish Kumar said, We all are united and intact. We have been working for the people and will continue to serve people. We have done a lot of developmental work in Bihar. From constructing good roads, bridges, electricity, and drinking water facilities to several other infrastructural projects, we have done a lot of work in the state. The electorate will make the final decision (Janta faisla legi). Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, who was present there, also told reporters, We are intact and will unitedly fight the coming elections. Kumar, who has maintained that the media was shackled under the current dispensation, also said that a change in regime would herald mukti (liberation) for the journalist fraternity. Let the government at the Center change, you (Journalists) people will get mukti. Right now the media is being controlled by the government at the Centre. I am in support of journalists. When everyone gets full freedom, journalists will write what they like, he said. When asked about the Centers decision to convene a special session of parliament, Kumar, whose JD(U) has 16 MPs in the Lok Sabha, said, The agenda of the session is not clearOur members are there, they will strongly raise crucial issues. The United Auto Workers (UAW) strike against the Detroit Three automakers has entered its third day with no immediate resolution in sight. Union negotiators and representatives from General Motors (GM), Ford, and Stellantis are set to resume talks following the start of this significant labour action. Notably, this marks the first time the UAW has initiated a strike against all three major automakers simultaneously. Unions grow in popularity This coordinated strike comes at a time when labor unions in the United States are experiencing a resurgence in popularity, despite relatively stable union membership numbers. UAW President Shawn Fain has stated that progress in the negotiations has been slow. Talks with GM have resumed, and discussions with Stellantis and Ford are scheduled for Monday. When asked if there might be additional plant walkouts this week, Fain expressed the unions readiness to take whatever actions are necessary to achieve their goals. Approximately 12,700 UAW workers are currently on strike, targeting three US assembly plants, one at each of the Detroit Three automakers, as their prior four-year labour agreements expired at 11:59 p.m. ET on Thursday. Negotiations fell apart? Negotiations between the UAW and Ford reportedly had reasonably productive discussions toward a new contract on Saturday. Stellantis, the parent company of Chrysler, has increased its offer, proposing raises of 20 per cent over a four-and-a-half-year contract term, including an immediate 10 per cent hike. This matches the proposals made by GM and Ford. However, these offers fall short of the UAWs demand for a 40 per cent wage increase through 2027, including an immediate 20 per cent boost. US President Joe Biden has signalled support for the unions efforts, with administration officials engaging in discussions with the UAW and automakers during the negotiations. Biden aims to ensure that any new agreements with the automakers result in quality middle-class jobs in the auto industry. The strikes have already had a significant impact, halting production at several plants that manufacture popular models, including the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, and Chevrolet Colorado, among others. GMs efforts to launch new electric vehicles (EVs) are at risk of disruption due to the strike, potentially affecting both short-term and long-term production goals. If the strike continues, analysts suggest that plants producing more profitable pickup trucks, such as the Ford F-150, GMs Chevrolet Silverado, and Stellantis Ram, could become the next strike targets. Besides wage increases, the UAW is demanding shorter workweeks, the restoration of defined benefit pensions, and stronger job security as automakers transition to electric vehicles (EVs). GM is looking for ways to bolster its EV portfolio during ongoing strike General Motors (GM) faces a higher risk of disruption to its electric vehicle (EV) production compared to its rivals Ford and Stellantis if the United Auto Workers (UAW) strike continues. However, some analysts suggest that a prolonged strike could also provide GM with the opportunity to address persistent issues in its EV operations. While Ford and Stellantis are introducing several updated combustion-engine models in the coming months, GMs primary focus is on electric vehicles. GM has plans to launch or increase production for at least five new EV models, including all-electric versions of its Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickup trucks. Throughout the year, GM has encountered challenges in streamlining its battery manufacturing processes and managing its EV supply chain and logistics. This includes difficulties in delivering Cadillac Lyriq and GMC Hummer EVs to dealers. In the second quarter, GMs deliveries of the Lyriq and Hummer fell significantly short of expectations, with only 1,348 Lyriqs and 47 Hummers delivered. These issues have been partially attributed to problems with battery module assembly, as acknowledged by GMs CEO, Mary Barra, in July. She mentioned that a bottleneck in the production process had arisen due to delivery challenges from automation equipment suppliers, which had led to the manual assembly of battery modules. A prolonged UAW strike may offer GM an opportunity to address and potentially resolve some of the ongoing challenges it faces in its EV and battery operations. While the strike would disrupt production, it could provide GM with a dedicated period to focus on resolving these issues and streamlining its EV manufacturing processes. Established in 2007, GDI asserts itself as one of Chinas first VR companies. With its headquarters nestled in Shanghais Songjiang district, the company boasts a workforce of over 200 employees, dedicated to the development of XR hardware and software solutions. While larger Chinese corporations like ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, and smartphone manufacturer Oppo, have directed their XR endeavours towards flashy hardware such as headsets and joysticks, GDIs standout offering is a software framework known as IdeaXR. Commonly referred to in the industry as VR engines, tools like IdeaXR empower users to craft and design 3D immersive experiences. IdeaXR, in particular, simplifies the process for individuals with limited expertise in traditional programming languages by providing a graphical interactive editor. Zhou explained, The core technology underpinning VR is the engine. When I embarked on my entrepreneurial journey, my primary goal was to create a domestic VR engine. Originally introduced in 2010 under the name DVS3D, IdeaXR has garnered nearly 100,000 users in China. This places it among the most popular VR engines in the country, alongside well-known US-made counterparts like Unity and Unreal Engine, according to Zhou. What sets GDI apart is its diverse clientele, which extends beyond video game developers to encompass fields such as education, emergency services, and advanced manufacturing. Many of these customers seek to harness VR tools for training and educational purposes, as noted by Zhou. GDIs strategy has proven successful, having served over 3,000 business clients, including prestigious names like Shanghais Pudong Airport, Chinese oil giant Sinopec, Peking University, Tsinghua University, and Disney. In the first half of 2023, GDI reported an impressive 96 per cent year-on-year revenue surge, amounting to 107 million yuan (approximately US$14.9 million). This enabled the company to achieve a net profit of 13.65 million yuan, a significant turnaround from a 34 per cent sales drop experienced the previous year, partly due to Shanghais two-month Covid-19 lockdown and associated supply chain disruptions, as explained by Zhou. GDIs business aligns with Chinas national agenda to bolster its digital economy. Recently, five Chinese ministries jointly unveiled an action plan to cultivate a domestic metaverse, targeting the development of three to five metaverse companies with global influence by 2025. This initiative involves advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and VR technologies. Another national blueprint unveiled in November aimed to propel Chinas MR industry to a market value of 350 billion yuan, with shipments of 25 million MR devices by 2026. In July of the previous year, the Shanghai government announced the establishment of a roughly 10 billion yuan industry fund dedicated to metaverse development. Zhou emphasized GDIs commitment to supporting homegrown technology, explaining how they adapted their engine to domestic operating systems and hardware. Notably, IdeaXR is now compatible with Kylin, an operating system originally developed by the National University of Defence Technology in Changsha, central Hunan province. GDIs efforts align with Beijings broader initiative to enhance the countrys technological self-reliance, aiming to reduce dependence on US exports of advanced technologies like semiconductors, amid escalating tensions in the tech realm between the two nations. Presently, IdeaXR still relies on graphics processing units manufactured by US chip giant NVIDIA, which provide the high-performance computing necessary for rendering 3D graphics. However, Zhou indicated that GDI remains open to utilizing chips conforming to the standards of British firm Arm or US company Intel. Zhou highlighted the recent advancements in AI, which have opened up new possibilities for XR technology. He noted, In the past two years, AI technology has gradually integrated with XR, especially after the launch of ChatGPT, referencing the AI chatbot developed by US startup OpenAI. He added, There are numerous synergies between the two technologies, and it will also become a new focus for our products. The Taiwanese contract manufacturing giant, Foxconn, has set ambitious goals for its investment and employment expansion in India. This announcement was made by Foxconns India representative, V Lee, as he extended his birthday wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a LinkedIn post on Sunday. Lee expressed Foxconns strong commitment to doubling its workforce, increasing foreign direct investment (FDI), and expanding its overall business operations in India within the next year. In Lees words, Under your leadership, Foxconn has experienced smooth and rapid growth in India. We will redouble our efforts to offer you an even greater birthday gift next year, with the aim of doubling our employment, FDI, and business footprint in India. This announcement follows Foxconns significant investments in India, particularly in the southern states, solidifying the companys pivotal role in Indias quest to become a global manufacturing hub. In recent developments, Foxconn has been actively exploring investment opportunities in India, with a strong focus on establishing a semiconductor manufacturing facility in Gujarat. Such a move holds the potential to substantially enhance Indias domestic electronics manufacturing capabilities. Foxconns expansion plans closely align with Indias strategy to bolster domestic manufacturing and establish itself as a prominent player in the global electronics industry. These proposed investments not only reflect Foxconns confidence in Indias growth potential but also make a substantial contribution to job creation and technological advancements within the country. Apple has announced that it will release a new software update for the iPhone 12 in France in response to the suspension of its sales by French authorities. The company made this statement on Friday, expressing its commitment to addressing the concerns raised by French regulators. In their statement provided to Euronews Next, Apple stated, We will issue a software update for users in France to accommodate the protocol used by French regulators. We look forward to iPhone 12 continuing to be available in France. The decision to suspend sales of the iPhone 12 in France was made by Frances National Frequency Agency (ANFR) earlier in the week. ANFR had cited excessive electromagnetic radiation emissions during recent testing as the reason for their action. Apples forthcoming software update aims to align the iPhone 12 with the regulatory requirements in France, allowing it to be sold and used in compliance with local standards. The ANFR has issued an order to Apple, instructing the company to take prompt action to rectify the identified malfunction related to excessive electromagnetic radiation emissions. They have made it clear that Apple must utilize all possible measures to address this issue swiftly. Failure to do so could result in the French government initiating a recall of the iPhone 12 devices already sold in France. ANFR, which oversees public exposure to electromagnetic waves, noted that during their testing, the specific absorption rate (SAR) of the iPhone 12 exceeded the authorized limit. SAR is a metric used to measure the rate at which radiofrequency energy is absorbed by the human body. The agencys findings raise concerns about potential health risks associated with the devices electromagnetic radiation emissions, prompting regulatory action and demand for a remedy from Apple. In response to the situation, Apple clarified in a statement provided to Euronews Next on Friday that the issue is specifically related to a testing protocol used by French regulators and is not indicative of a safety concern. The company emphasized that since its introduction in 2020, the iPhone 12 has consistently been certified and recognized as meeting or surpassing all applicable Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) regulations and standards globally. Frances junior minister in charge of digital, Jean-Noel Barrot, shared that he has been in communication with Apples teams since the decision to withdraw the iPhone 12 from the French market was made. Following discussions and in response to the demands of the French National Frequency Agency (ANFR), Apple has assured Barrot that it will release a software update for the iPhone 12 in the coming days. Barrot further noted that the ANFR is ready to promptly test this software update to ensure that it brings the model into compliance with European standards applied in France. Once this is confirmed, the marketing withdrawal of the iPhone 12 in France is expected to be lifted. This action reflects the cooperative efforts between Apple and French authorities to address the regulatory concerns and allow the iPhone 12 to continue being available in the French market. The European Commission told Euronews Next that, in accordance with the EU directive on radio equipment, a suspension of iPhone 12 sales in France could potentially lead to a ban on its sales across the entire European Union. Its worth noting that the iPhone 12 was initially launched by Apple in 2020, and the company recently unveiled the iPhone 15 series. The latest iPhone iteration incorporates a USB-C charger, aligning with a law passed by European lawmakers that mandates a single charging standard for all electronic devices in the European Union. This move aims to reduce electronic waste and improve compatibility among various devices, enhancing the overall user experience while promoting sustainability. African nations are increasingly resisting Chinas predatory practices within the lucrative mining sector, particularly in the realm of rare earth minerals. Several resource-rich African states are taking measures to counter Beijings influence. In August, Nigeria, Africas largest economy, suspended certain illegal Chinese mining operations within its borders, including the termination of Ruitai Mining Companys activities due to its involvement in illicit titanium ore mining. In a similar move earlier in May, Namibia revoked the license of Chinese mining firm Xinfeng Investments, which had been found to have acquired a license for lithium exploration through questionable means, as reported by ET. Furthermore, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has halted the operations of six Chinese companies in South Kivu after their involvement in illegal gold and mineral mining activities came to light. In a recent incident in the DRC, two Chinese nationals lost their lives on September 2 during an attack on a mining convoy transporting gold in the northeastern region of the country, highlighting the growing security concerns surrounding Chinese interests. Regrettably, attacks on Chinese nationals in Africa have become increasingly common, with a tragic event in March 2023 when nine Chinese nationals working in a gold mining company were killed by armed individuals in the Central African Republic. The extraction of rare earth elements from Africa continues to play a significant role in fueling the growth of Chinas electronic vehicle industry. China is the primary recipient of minerals sourced from Africa, with mineral exports from Sub-Saharan Africa to China totalling $10 billion in 2019, according to the Washington DC-based think tank, the Wilson Centre. In certain countries like the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), more than 40,000 children are employed in cobalt, lithium, and rare earth mineral mines run by Chinese mining companies, as reported by the UK-based NGO Rights and Accountability in Development (RAID). Amnesty International expressed concerns in a 2016 report about the use of children by Chinese firms in cobalt mining operations in the DRC. The Democratic Republic of the Congo, the second-largest country in Africa by landmass, hosts a significant number of Chinese miners. Out of the 19 cobalt operations in the DRC, 15 are either owned or co-owned by Chinese entities. Reports indicate that the five largest Chinese mining corporations involved in cobalt and copper mining in the DRC have access to credit lines totalling approximately $124 billion from China-backed banks. In 2019, Ghana, Africas second-largest gold producer, arrested 33 Chinese nationals for their involvement in illegal gold mining activities. Ghana currently accommodates around 30,000 Chinese expatriates participating in various trade, mining, and infrastructure projects. Due to Chinas declining economy and limited profit opportunities, numerous Chinese firms have turned their attention to Africa, with Ghana being a particularly attractive destination due to its abundant reserves of gold and other minerals. Often, gold extracted through informal mining methods finds its way into global markets via West Asia. In 2017, Zambian authorities apprehended 31 Chinese nationals on suspicion of engaging in illegal mining activities. However, the Chinese foreign ministry contended that the Zambian authorities had not provided substantial evidence to support their claims of illegal mining by Chinese nationals. Zambia is estimated to host approximately 22,000 Chinese nationals, many of whom are involved in operating 280 companies, primarily concentrated in areas like Lusaka and the Copperbelt Province, including Kansanshi, Konkola, Lumwana, and Mufilira. Chinese nationals have occasionally faced scrutiny and challenges in Zambia as well. China has lodged a formal complaint with Germany after its foreign minister labelled President Xi Jinping a dictator, the Chinese foreign ministry said on Monday, calling the title absurd and an open political provocation. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock made the remarks in a live interview with Fox News last week when asked about Russias war on Ukraine. If Putin were to win this war, what sign would that be for other dictators in the world, like Xi, like the Chinese president? she said. Mao Ning, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, said Baerbocks remarks were extremely absurd and infringed on Chinas political dignity. They are an open political provocation, Mao told a regular press briefing, adding that China had complained to Germany. Baerbock is well known as an outspoken critic of China. In August, she said China posed a challenge to the fundamentals of how we live together in this world. Earlier, she described aspects of a trip to China as more than shocking and said Beijing was increasingly becoming more of a systemic rival than a trade partner. In June, US President Joe Biden also called Xi a dictator a day after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken concluded a visit to China aimed at stabilising ties. Chinas top diplomat, Wang Yi, will visit Russia for security talks from 18 September 18 to 21 September, according to his foreign ministry, the latest in a series of high-level trips and phone contacts between the two countries. China and Russia are strategic allies, with both promoting their no limits friendship and economic and military cooperation. Their connections grew even stronger when Russia invaded Ukraine in February of last year, which China has failed to condemn. Chinas foreign ministry said in a statement that Wang will go to Russia to hold the 18th round of the China-Russian Strategic Security Consultations (SSCC) from 18 to 21 September at the invitation of Nikolai Patrushev, secretary of Moscows security council. Defence Minister Li Shangfu visited Russia and Belarus last month, calling for more military cooperation. In recent months, the two nations have conducted coordinated sea and air patrols, with South Korea deploying fighter planes as a precaution. The high-level interaction appears to be intensifying, with a Putin adviser suggesting in July that the Russian president planned to visit China in October. President Xi Jinping paid a state visit to Moscow in March, declaring that ties between the two nations had entered a new era. China has attempted to present itself as a neutral party in the Ukraine conflict, while also providing Moscow with a key diplomatic and financial lifeline as its international isolation worsens. With a possible partial government shutdown coming in two weeks, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy indicated on Sunday that he will put a defence budget package to a vote win or lose this week, despite opposition from conservative Republican colleagues. McCarthy is battling to bring fiscal 2024 spending legislation to the House floor, with Republicans divided by conservative demands for spending to be slashed to $1.47 trillion in 2022 $120 billion less than McCarthy agreed to with Biden in May. Members of the House Freedom Caucus and the more moderate Main Street Caucus announced a deal late Sunday on a short-term stopgap bill to keep the government open until October 31 but with a more than 8% cut in spending on agencies other than the Departments of Defence and Veterans Affairs. The bill, which is unlikely to pass, also includes conservative curbs on immigration and the US-Mexico border. It does not contain financing for Ukraine, as requested by Biden. Republicans have said that such an agreement may allow the House to vote on the defence funding package this week. However, it was unclear whether the measure had sufficient Republican support to pass the chamber. The spending cuts were also likely to draw opposition from Democrats in the House and Senate, who reject the immigration provisions. Republicans hold a narrow 221-212 majority in the chamber as they bicker over overspending and pursue a new impeachment drive against President Joe Biden while the United States faces a possible fourth partial government shutdown in a decade. McCarthy has begun to face calls for floor action seeking his ouster from hardline conservatives and others who have accused him of failing to keep promises he made to become speaker in January after a revolt from some of the most conservative Republicans in the House. The Republican-controlled House and Democratic-led Senate have until Oct. 1 to avoid a partial shutdown by enacting appropriations bills that Biden, a Democrat, can sign into law, or by passing a short-term stopgap spending measure to give lawmakers more time for debate. McCarthy signaled a tougher stand with hardliners, telling the Fox News Sunday Morning Futures program that he would bring the stalled defense bill to the floor this week. The House last week postponed a vote on beginning debate on the defense appropriations bill due to opposition from the hardliners. Well bring it to the floor, win or lose, and show the American public whos for the Department of Defense, whos for our military, McCarthy said. McCarthy also said he wants to make sure there is no shutdown on Oct. 1, saying: A shutdown would only give strength to the Democrats. McCarthy has held closed-door discussions over the weekend aimed at overcoming a roadblock by the conservative hardliners to spending legislation. They want assurances that legislation will include their deep spending cuts, as well as conservative policy priorities including provisions related to tighter border security that are unlikely to secure Democratic votes. We made some good progress, McCarthy said. Representative Elise Stefanik, the No. 4 House Republican, told the Fox News Sunday program that she was optimistic about moving forward on appropriations after closed-door discussions. But Republican Representative Nancy Mace told ABCs This Week that she expects a shutdown and did not rule out support for a vote to oust McCarthys ouster. Mace complained that the speaker has not made good on promises to her involving action on womens issues and gun violence. Everythings on the table at this point for me, Mace said. Mace played down the consequences of a shutdown, saying much of the government would remain in operation and that the hiatus would give government workers time off with back pay at a later date. Democratic former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said a shutdown would risk harming the most vulnerable members of society who depend on government assistance. Were talking about diminishing even something as simple and fundamental as feeding the children, Pelosi told MSNBC. We have to try to avoid it. The parliament speaker told local television late Sunday that Hungary is unsure if it has to accept Swedens NATO membership application, potentially delaying the process further. Hungarys approval has been stuck in parliament since July 2022, due to Swedish MPs opposition to Hungarys democratic backsliding. It is not sure we need to approve this bid, parliament speaker Laszlo Kover, a senior lawmaker of the ruling Fidesz party, told HirTV, referring to Sweden. His comments follow a letter Hungarys foreign minister wrote to his Swedish counterpart last week in which he again raised concerns over what he called biased and unfair accusations by some Swedish politicians against the Hungarian government. Sweden applied for NATO membership last year in response to Russias invasion of Ukraine and most alliance members quickly ratified its bid. Turkey and Hungary, however, have yet to ratify Swedens bid, and both countries have said they closely coordinating their stance on the matter. Hungarys parliament will reconvene later this month, but it is not clear yet whether a debate and vote on the Swedish ratification will be on the agenda. President Joe Bidens son Hunter Biden sued the US Internal Revenue Service on Monday, alleging unlawful disclosure of his taxes by whistleblowers who work for the US tax agency. The lawsuit, filed in US District Court for the District of Columbia, focussed on statements made by IRS agents Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler in media interviews amid a long-running investigation by House of Representatives Republicans into the younger Bidens taxes and business dealings. Hunter Biden, 53, is at the center of a political maelstrom, as House Republicans mount an impeachment inquiry against his father focused on alleged ties between his business practices and his fathers policies during his fathers tenure as vice president from 2009 to 2017. They have so far presented no evidence showing that the elder Biden profited from his sons businesses. The White House has denied any wrongdoing. Hunter Biden is the first child of a sitting US president to have been criminally indicted. Prosecutors last week charged him with three counts related to the fact that he was lying about using illegal drugs when he bought a firearm. Hunter Biden and prosecutors earlier had reached a plea deal over tax and gun charges, but it collapsed. Mondays lawsuit refers to more than 20 nationally televised and non-congressionally sanctioned interviews and numerous public statements by Shapley, Ziegler and their lawyers about Hunter Biden. Shapley and Ziegler have testified in Congress as whistleblowers about alleged political interference in an IRS investigation into Bidens taxes. The Justice Department has denied any such interference. The lawsuit is about the decision by IRS employees, their representatives, and others to disregard their obligations and repeatedly and intentionally publicly disclose and disseminate Mr. Bidens protected tax return information outside the exceptions for making disclosures in the law, the lawsuit reads. Biden is seeking $1,000 for each unauthorized disclosure of his tax return information, a declaration from the IRS, a data security plan from the agency, production of documents related to Bidens taxes and other relief. The Republican-led House Judiciary Committee called the lawsuit intimidation in a post on social media. The IRS did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Hunter Biden last week also filed a lawsuit against a former White House aide during Donald Trumps presidency over the aides alleged role in the publication of embarrassing images and emails. Trump, who has cheered on the impeachment inquiry, was the first US president to be impeached twice. The Senate acquitted him both times. Trump also has been charged in four criminal cases this year. The warnings were plain, yet they were ignored. Experts have long warned that floods presented a severe risk to two dams intended to safeguard almost 90,000 people in Libyas northeast. They continually demanded that the two structures, which are located just uphill from the seaside city of Derna, be repaired immediately. But successive governments in the war-torn North African country accomplished little. In the event of a big flood, the consequences will be disastrous for the residents of the valley and the city, Abdelwanees Ashoor, a professor of civil engineering, wrote in a study published last year in the Sabha University Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences. Residents of Derna awoke to thunderous booms before flooding pummelling the Mediterranean city in the early hours of 11 September. They discovered that two dams had failed, releasing a two-story-high wall of water that wreaked havoc and washed entire neighbourhoods out to sea. The downpour killed hundreds in seconds, uprooting apartment buildings and destroying highways and bridges. According to the Libyan Red Crescent and the United Nations, around 11,300 people were killed, including foreigners, and over 10,000 were still missing a week after the tragedy. Libya, a country of around 7 million people with substantial oil and natural gas deposits, is plagued by neglect and corruption. Transparency Internationals transparency index ranks the country 171 out of 180 as of 2022. The North African country has been in turmoil since 2011 when an Arab Spring revolt supported by NATO toppled longtime tyrant Moammar Gadhafi, who was eventually assassinated. Since then, the nation has been divided into two administrations: one in the west backed by a slew of uncontrolled armed groups and militias, and one in the east associated with the self-styled Libyan National Army, led by strong Gen. Khalifa Hifter. The dams, Abu Mansour and Derna were built by a Yugoslav construction company in the 1970s above Wadi Derna, which divides the city. Abu Mansour, 14 kilometres (8.6 miles) from the city, was 74 meters (243 feet) high and could hold up to 22.5 million cubic meters of water. The Derna dam, also known as Belad, is much closer to the city and can hold 1.5 million cubic meters of water. The dams, built from clay, rocks and earth, were meant to protect the city from flash floods, which are not uncommon in the area. Water collected behind the dams was used to irrigate crops downstream. Both dams had not been maintained for many years, despite repeated floods that struck the city in the past, said Saleh Emhanna, a geological researcher with the University of Ajdabia in Libya. They were dilapidated. The dams suffered major damage in a strong storm that hit the region in 1986, and more than a decade later a study commissioned by the Libyan government revealed cracks and fissures in their structures, Libyas general prosecutor, al-Sediq al-Sour, said late Friday. At a news conference in the stricken city, al-Sour said prosecutors would investigate the collapse of the two dams, as well as the allocation of maintenance funds. I reassure citizens that whoever made mistakes or negligence, prosecutors will certainly take firm measures, file a criminal case against him and send him to trial, al-Sour said. A report by a state-run audit agency in 2021 said the two dams hadnt been maintained despite the allocation of more than $2 million for that purpose in 2012 and 2013. No work was done in the area, and the audit agency blamed the Ministry of Works and Natural Resources for failing to cancel the contract and give it to a company that would do the work. A Turkish firm was contracted in 2007 to carry out maintenance on the two dams and build another dam in between. The firm, Arsel Construction Company Ltd., says on its website that it completed its work in November 2012. Arsel was one of dozens of Turkish companies that had projects worth more than $15 billion in Libya before the 2011 uprising. Many of these companies fled the Libya chaos before returning in the past couple of years, especially when the Turkish government stepped in to help the Tripoli-based government fend off an attack by Hifters forces in 2019. Arsel didnt respond to an email seeking further comment on the two dams. No third dam appeared to have ever been built, recent satellite photos show. Ahead of the Mediterranean storm Daniel, authorities also gave contradicting messages. They imposed a curfew in Derna and other areas in the east. The municipality of Derna published statements on its website urging residents to evacuate the coastal areas for fear of a surge from the sea. However, many residents said they received text messages on their phones urging them not to leave their homes. The floods flattened Derna and officials have estimated that as much as a quarter of the city has been erased. Such devastation reflected the storms intensity, but also Libyas vulnerability. The countrys infrastructure has suffered widespread neglect despite Libyas oil wealth. Al-Sour, the chief prosecutor, said prosecutors would probe local authorities in Derna as well as previous governments. He appointed investigators from different parts of the country to carry out the investigation. East Libyas government suspended Dernas mayor, Abdel-Moneim al-Gaithi, pending an investigation into the disaster. The mayor didnt respond to phone calls seeking comment. Since 2014, eastern Libya has been under the control of Hifter and his forces. The rival government based in the capital, Tripoli, controls most national funds and oversees infrastructure projects. Neither tolerates dissent. Activists are calling for an international probe, fearing that a local investigation would be fruitless in a country largely ruled by armed groups and militias. The predatory behaviour of these groups and militias has resulted in the misappropriation of Libyan State funds and the deterioration of institutions and infrastructure, according to a report by the UN panel of experts. Libya has suffered from weak public institutions, internal conflict and deep instability, which allowed corruption to become rife with few to no checks on public sector abuse, according to Transparency International. An online petition signed in recent days by hundreds of people, including Libyan rights groups and NGOs, said an independent international committee is needed to uncover the causes of this catastrophe and hold those responsible accountable. Jalel Harchaoui, an expert on Libya at the London-based Royal United Services Institute for Defence and Security Studies, said an investigation into the disaster would face towering challenges since it could reach top officials in west and east Libya. Such an inquiry might potentially reach into the highest ranks of responsibility, he said. This presents a unique challenge. The United Nations World Heritage Committee voted on Sunday to declare the Tell es-Sultan archaeological site in Jericho a World Heritage Site in Palestine. This decision was reached during a conference held in Riyadh, as reported by UNESCO on its official X account, previously known as Twitter. The Palestinian Authority embraced this decision with enthusiasm, while Israel expressed its discontent. The newly designated site, situated in Jericho within the Israeli-occupied West Bank, contains ancient ruins dating back to the ninth millennium BCE. Jericho itself holds the distinction of being one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities globally. The Palestinian Authority Foreign Affairs Ministry warmly welcomed the decision, describing it as a recognition of Jerichos cultural, economic, and political importance and a testament to 10,000 years of human progress. This statement was released on Sunday. PA Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Rula Maayah, emphasized the decisions significance, labeling the site as an indispensable and valuable part of the diverse Palestinian heritage. This statement was relayed to CNN on Sunday. Maayah stated, The sites exceptional universal value qualifies it to be included among the World Heritage sites. Conversely, the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs disapproved of the decision, viewing it as yet another instance of the Palestinians cynically using UNESCO and politicizing the organization. Jericho is located in the Jordan Valley, nestled between the Jordan River to the east and Jerusalem to the west. In 2010, Jericho celebrated its status as the worlds oldest walled city, tracing its origins back to the modern Stone Age. Following a final stop in Vladivostok, in Russias far east, where he visited a university, an aquarium, and an animal food plant, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was on his way home, according to state media KCNA on Monday. Kim spent two days in Vladivostok touring a variety of buildings in the military, economic, scientific, educational, and cultural sectors before saying goodbye at a send-off ceremony at the Artyom station, according to KCNA. It concluded Kims unusually prolonged, seven-day visit to Russia, during which he committed to enhancing his military and business ties with President Vladimir Putin. The visit will serve as an opportunity to further solidify the traditional bond of good-neighbourhood cooperation between the two countries, which are rooted in comradely friendship and military unity, and to open a new chapter in the development of relations, KCNA said. Kim was given a tour of Far Eastern Federal University and given information on the educational programme and long-term development strategy by the universitys president before he and Putin spoke for the first time in 2019. According to KCNA, he also interacted with North Korean students studying science and technology at the institution, learning about their daily lives and taking pictures with them. Kim first visited the Arnika Bio-Feed Mill and then attended a banquet organised by Alexandr Kozlov, Russias minister of natural resources and ecology, where she saw white dolphins and other sea animals perform acrobatic feats. Kims travel to Vladivostok on Monday was also covered by North Koreas official radio, Voice of Korea, which stated that it opened a new period of rapid development and strengthening of bilateral relations and that Kim was in Vladivostok as part of the visit and he thanked Putin and other Russian officials for their hospitality. As Russia pursues its invasion of Ukraine and North Korea rushes to enhance its nuclear programmes, the unusual summit between Kim and Putin has caused the United States and South Korea to issue warnings against any weapons sales and other military collaboration. Moscow may be looking to buy ammunition from the North to supplement its decreasing supplies, while Pyongyang receives technological support for its spy satellite and missile projects, according to officials in Washington and Seoul. Kim examined nuclear-capable strategic bombers, hypersonic missiles, warships, and a Russian fighter aircraft plant that is subject to Western sanctions last week, despite Putins assurances that Moscow wouldnt violate anything. (With agency inputs) Pacific island countries will meet next week with US President Joe Biden for a second summit with his country, the secretary-general of the Pacific Islands Forum Henry Puna said on Monday. Puna made the announcement at an event in New York hosted by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the timing of the summit, which US officials have previously said would be held in September. Its something that were very much looking forward to as a region, engaging with the US at the highest levels, Puna said. Currently our senior officials are in negotiations with Washington over the outcomes that we would like to see when we meet with President Biden next week, he said. Im very hopeful that those outcomes will translate into concrete actions moving forward, because right now, theres a lot of issues and challenges confronting our Pacific region. Apart from climate change, theres our economic recovery from Covid-19, Puna added. He said the Pacific island region had gone from a period of strategic neglect just a decade ago to become a subject of strategic interest, competition and manipulation today, a reference to the geopolitical rivalry for influence in the region between the United States and China. We must realize that the strategic interest and attention we enjoy today will not last forever, and we must capitalize on it in a manner that will ensure sustainable gains for our region and for our people, for decades to come, Puna said. He said the stance of the Pacific island countries had been clear: We will engage with any partner who is willing to work with us, rather than around us. Biden hosted a first summit with Pacific island leaders a year ago, at which his administration pledged to help stave off Chinas economic coercion, and he promised to work harder with allies and partners to address islanders needs. On Monday, Russia urged the United Nations top court in The Hague to dismiss a case that it claimed was hopelessly flawed and disputed Moscows claim that its invasion of Ukraine was undertaken to stop genocide. At the outset of hearings addressing the International Court of Justices (ICJ), also known as the World Court, jurisdiction, the Russian request was made. Moscow claims that Ukraine used the case as a de facto means of obtaining a decision on the general legitimacy of Russias military activity. According to experts, a decision in Kyivs favour would not end the war but might have an impact on present and future reparations. Days after the Russian incursion on February 24 of last year, Ukraine filed the lawsuit. Kiev claims that Russia is abusing international law by saying the invasion was justified to prevent an alleged genocide in eastern Ukraine. In eastern Ukraine, where it has been at war with forces backed by Russia since 2014, Ukraine claims there was no risk of genocide, and the genocide treaty forbids an invasion to halt an alleged genocide. Russian authorities continue to charge Ukraine of genocide. Russia said once more on Monday that the Russophobic and Neo-Nazi regime in Kyiv was using the 1948 Genocide Convention of the United Nations, to which both nations are parties, as an excuse to drag a case before the court. The hearings, which are scheduled to go until September 27, wont focus on the cases merits; instead, theyll examine legal contentions regarding jurisdiction. Genocide, according to the convention, is defined as crimes carried out with the goal to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group, as such. Ukraine insists no genocide has occurred, Russias agent to the court, Gennady Kuzmin, said in opening remarks. That alone should be enough to reject the case. Because according to the courts jurisprudence, if there was no genocide, there cannot be a violation of the Genocide Convention. In his final statement, Kuzmin argued that Ukraines legal position is hopelessly flawed and at odds with the long-standing jurisprudence of this court and urged the judges to throw out the case. Ukraine will make its case for why the court should continue hearing the issue on Tuesday. 32 additional nations will also testify before the court, all of whom agree with Ukraines claim that the case can be continued on Wednesday. Ukraine has already overcome one obstacle because the courts March 2016 preliminary ruling in the case was in its favour. On the basis of that, the court ruled that Russia must immediately stop its military operations in Ukraine. Although the ICJ has no mechanism of implementing its rulingsRussia has so far disregarded its instructions to cease its military operationsexperts think they could have an impact on how much compensation will be paid following the war. (With agency inputs) Tens of thousands of demonstrators yelled on Sunday that the future and their lives depend on eliminating the use of fossil fuels, kicking off a week in which leaders will strive to prevent climate change, which is mostly driven by coal, oil, and natural gas. However, protesters argue that it will not suffice. They also directed their rage at US President Joe Biden, calling him to halt new oil and gas projects, phase out existing ones, and declare a climate emergency with expanded executive powers. We hold the power of the people, the power you need to win this election, said 17-year-old Emma Buretta of Brooklyn of the youth protest group Fridays for Future. If you want to win in 2024, if you do not want the blood of my generation to be on your hands, end fossil fuels. Politicians including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez joined actresses like Susan Sarandon, Ethan Hawke, Edward Norton, Kyra Sedgewick, and Kevin Bacon in the March to End Fossil Fuels. The main activity on Broadway, though, was where demonstrators filled the street, appealing for a better but less-than-ideal future. It was the first volley of New Yorks Climate Week when world leaders from industry, politics, and the arts gathered to attempt to rescue the planet, which was highlighted by a new special United Nations meeting on Wednesday. Many of the leaders of the countries that emit the greatest heat-trapping carbon pollution will be absent. And they will not speak at a meeting organised by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in such a way that only nations promising fresh specific action will be asked to speak. According to organisers, 75,000 people marched on Sunday. We have people all across the world in the streets, showing up, demanding a cessation of what is killing us, Ocasio-Cortez told a cheering crowd. We have to send a message that some of us are going to be living on, on this planet 30, 40, 50 years from now. And we will not take no for an answer. This protest was far more focused on fossil fuels and the industry than previous marches. Sundays rally attracted a large chunk, 15%, of first-time protesters and was overwhelmingly female, said American University sociologist Dana Fisher, who studies environmental movements and was surveying march participants. Of the people Fisher talked to, 86% had experienced extreme heat recently, 21% floods and 18% severe drought, she said. They mostly reported feeling sad and angry. Earth has just gone through the hottest summer on record. Among the marchers was 8-year-old Athena Wilson from Boca Raton, Florida. She and her mother Maleah, flew from Florida for Sundays protest. Because we care about our planet, Athena said. I really want the Earth to feel better. People in the South, especially where the oil industry is, and the global south, have not felt heard, said 23-year-old Alexandria Gordon, originally from Houston. It is frustrating. Protest organizers emphasized how let down they felt that Biden, whom many of them supported in 2020, has overseen increased drilling for oil and fossil fuels. President Biden, our lives depend on your actions today, said Louisiana environmental activist Sharon Lavigne. If you dont stop fossil fuels our blood is on your hands. Nearly one-third of the worlds planned drilling for oil and gas between now and 2050 is by US interests, environmental activists calculate. Over the past 100 years, the United States has put more heat-trapping carbon dioxide in the atmosphere than any other country, though China now emits more carbon pollution on an annual basis. You need to phase out fossil fuels to survive our planet, said Jean Su, a march organizer and energy justice director for the Center for Biological Diversity. Marchers and speakers spoke of increasing urgency and fear of the future. The actress known as V, formerly Eve Ensler, premiered the anthem Panic from her new climate change-oriented musical scheduled for next year. The chorus goes: We want you to panic. We want you to act. You stole our future and we want it back. Signs included Even Santa Knows Coal is Bad Fossil fuels are killing us I want a fossil-free future and Keep it in the ground. Thats because leaders dont want to acknowledge the elephant in the room, said Ugandan climate activist Vanessa Nakate. The elephant is that fossil fuels are responsible for the crisis. We cant eat coal. We cant drink oil, and we cant have any new fossil fuel investments. But oil and gas industry officials said their products are vital to the economy. We share the urgency of confronting climate change together without delay, yet doing so by eliminating Americas energy options is the wrong approach and would leave American families and businesses beholden to unstable foreign regions for higher cost and far less reliable energy, said American Petroleum Institute Senior Vice President Megan Bloomgren. Activists werent having any of that. The fossil fuel industry is choosing to rule and conquer and take and take and take without limit, Rabbi Stephanie Kolin of Congregation Beth Elohim of Brooklyn said. And so waters are rising and the skies are turning orange (from wildfire smoke) and the heat is taking lives. But you Mr. President can choose the other path, to be a protector of this Earth. Turkey is currently engaged in extensive discussions with its regional partners to find an alternative trade corridor plan to the recently proposed India-Middle East trade route at the G20 summit, according to a report by Financial Times. This initiative reflects Turkeys efforts to reaffirm its historical significance as a crucial transit point for goods travelling from Asia to Europe. Ankara has expressed reservations about the proposed India-Middle East route, which would facilitate the transportation of goods from the Indian subcontinent through the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Israel to reach European markets. This proposed corridor, supported by the United States and the European Union in their efforts to counter Chinas expanding influence, would entirely bypass Turkey. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said after the G20 that there can be no corridor without Turkey, adding the most appropriate route for trade from east to west must pass through Turkey. Turkeys Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, has further underscored this scepticism, stating this week that experts have raised doubts about whether the primary objective of the India-Middle East corridor was rationality and efficiency, suggesting that there may be more geostrategic considerations in play. Talking to journalists who were accompanying him to the G20 Summit in New Delhi on 9 and 10 September, Erdogan said: The most convenient line for traffic from east to west has to pass through Turkey. As per Erdogan, the UAE President suggested that negotiations be completed within 60 days, and the foundations for the project be laid immediately. The economic corridor including shipping and railway links, will be a historic initiative for cooperation on connectivity and infrastructure. It involves India, UAE, Saudi Arabia, EU, France, Italy, Germany and the US. The shipping and railway lines will pass through the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Israel, then reach Greece and Europe. The project, in its current form, however, bypasses Turkey. During the G20 Summit in New Delhi, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the corridor was signed by the European Union, India, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the US and other G20 partners. One of the main objectives of the project is to cut shipping times by 40 per cent and save money on other costs, and fuel use. The ambitious scheme is estimated to require an investment of around $17bn, with projected annual returns of $4bn and the creation of a minimum of 100,000 jobs. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has urged Tesla CEO Elon Musk to create a Tesla factory in Turkey, according to the countrys communications office. According to Musk, numerous Turkish suppliers are already working with Tesla, and Turkey is one of the most prominent prospects for its future manufacturing. Tesla did not reply quickly to calls for comment. Erdogan and Musk were talking at Turkish House, a skyscraper near the United Nations in New York, according to Turkeys state-owned Anadolu news agency. Erdogan is in the United States for the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Erdogan also stated at the discussion that Turkey was ready to collaborate on artificial intelligence and Starlink, Musks SpaceX satellite internet endeavour, according to the communications directorate. According to the report, Musk stated that SpaceX intended to collaborate with Turkish officials in order to secure the required licence to offer Starlink satellite services in Turkey. It further stated that Erdogan asked Musk to visit the Turkish aerospace and technology event Teknofest in Izmir at the end of September and that Musk agreed. On Monday, Musk will also meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in California. Musk said on the social networking site X that their discussions will centre on artificial intelligence technologies. Tesla in August expressed an interest in building a factory in India that would produce a low-cost electric vehicle. Tesla currently has six factories and is building a seventh in Mexico in northern Nuevo Leon state, part of the automakers push to expand its global footprint. Musk said in May that Tesla would probably pick a location for a new factory by the end of this year. Tesla shares are up 123 per cent so far this year and the automaker on Saturday said it had produced its 5 millionth car. In addition to running Tesla, Musk also bought X, formerly known as Twitter, for $44 billion in 2022. While describing himself as a free speech absolutist, Musk has complied with some demands by the Turkish government to censor content in the country. In other cases, the social media company has objected to orders by the Turkish courts. Ukraine intends to sue Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia over agricultural product prohibitions, Ukrainian Trade Representative Taras Kachka said to Politico in an interview published on Monday. The European Union introduced restrictions in May, allowing Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia to prohibit domestic sales of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflower seeds but allowing transit of such cargoes for export elsewhere. On Friday, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary imposed their own curbs on Ukrainian grain imports after the European Commissions executive committee opted not to extend its embargo on imports into Ukraines five EU neighbours. Warsaw, Bratislava and Budapest say they are acting in the interests of their economies and that their moves are intended to protect their farmers from a glut of products. It is important to prove that these actions are legally wrong. And thats why we will start legal proceedings tomorrow, Politico quoted Kachka as saying. Kachka told Politico that Ukraine could also impose reciprocal measures on Poland if Warsaw did not drop its additional measures. We would be forced to retaliate on the additional products, and would prohibit the import of fruit and vegetables from Poland, Politico quoted him as saying. Kyiv had already said it could seek international arbitration over the restrictions. The EU allowed its ban to expire on Friday after Ukraine said it would take measures to tighten control of exports to neighbouring countries. Kachka said Kyiv was ready to take on the responsibility to ensure that export from Ukraine is not creating any tsunami in neighbouring countries and would impose a system of real time export licenses for grains. According to Ukrainian officials, Ukraine wants to file a complaint with the World Trade Organisation against Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia for their prohibitions on Ukrainian agricultural exports. According to a senior source, the plea might be submitted in the near future and came after the three nations surrounding Ukraine decided to forbid imports of many of its main exports. Earlier on Monday, Ukrainian Trade Representative Taras Kachka was quoted by Politico as indicating in an interview that Kyiv intended to sue the three nations. Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, and other countries were able to apply restrictions in May that prevented the domestic sale of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflower seeds while allowing the transit of such cargoes for export to other countries. Following the executive European Commissions decision not to extend its embargo on imports into Ukraines five EU neighbours, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary announced their own limitations on the purchase of Ukrainian grain on Friday. According to Warsaw, Bratislava, and Budapest, such actions are being taken to benefit their local businesses and farmers. According to Kachka, if Warsaw continued with its extra steps, Ukraine may apply reciprocal restrictions on the import of fruit and vegetables from Poland. According to Polish Agriculture Minister Robert Telus, the restriction in Warsaw now extends to meals made from the following cereals: maize, wheat and rapeseed. PAP news agency quoted Radoslaw Fogiel, the head of Polands parliamentary foreign affairs commission, as saying Ukraines decision to sue would reverberate badly in Poland and that Ukraine should be aware of this. Our decision is not aimed at Ukraine, it is dictated by the protection of the Polish farmer and the protection of Polands interests, he said. After Ukraine announced it will take steps to tighten supervision of shipments to neighbouring countries, the EU permitted its ban to expire on Friday. According to Kachka, Kiev would enact a system of real time export licences for grains and was prepared to take on the responsibility to ensure that export from Ukraine is not creating any tsunami in neighbouring countries. According to data from the farm ministry, 1.4 million tonnes of farm products from Ukraineout of a total export volume of 4.5 million tonsleft the country by train in the first quarter of the 202324 JulyJune season. Train crossings with Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary are used by Ukraine to transport grain. Additionally, Ukraine transported 1 million tonnes of additional oils and oilseeds by rail. (With agency inputs) A military airbase in South Carolina has asked the public for help in locating a missing Marine Corps F35 fighter jet. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon when the pilot had to eject from the aircraft. Following the incident, Marine Corps investigators have initiated an inquiry into what they describe as a mishap. This incident led to the pilot ejecting from an F-35 fighter plane over North Charleston on Sunday afternoon. The pilot, who is stationed at the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, was found alive. He safely parachuted down to South Kenwood Drive, just a short distance from the North Charleston airbase. Meanwhile, the pilots wingman, flying in another aircraft, landed safely at Joint Base Charleston. The Joint Base Charleston made an appeal on Twitter, stating, If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of the F-35, please contact our Base Defense Operations Center at 843-963-3600. The Marine Corps Air Station in Beaufort is located approximately 35 miles southwest of Charleston. It serves as the home to various units of the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, including the Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501, which operates F-35B Lightning II aircraft. This military facility, sprawling across 6,900 acres, is staffed by around 4,700 military personnel. It boasts a substantial air-to-air combat training area off the coast of South Carolina and Georgia, as well as an air-to-ground combat and bombing range in McIntosh County, Georgia. Just last month, the base mourned the loss of a highly decorated Marine Corps pilot. Major Andrew Mettler was flying an F/A-18D Hornet during a training flight when it crashed near Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, near San Diego. The incident occurred shortly before midnight on August 24. This crash marked the fifth Class-A aviation mishap of the current fiscal year, defined as incidents resulting in damage exceeding $2 million or involving fatalities. Remarkably, it was the first such incident involving a Marine Corps aircraft, as reported by Task & Purpose. A confidential arms deal between Pakistan and the United States played a role in facilitating a contentious bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) earlier this year, the Intercept quoted two sources with knowledge of the arrangement, with confirmation from internal Pakistani and American government documents The arms sales were primarily intended to provide military support to Ukraine. This development highlights Pakistans involvement in a conflict where it faced pressure from the United States to take a clear stance. The Intercepts report sheds light on the behind-the-scenes dealings among financial and political elites, which are typically shielded from public view, even though the public bears the consequences of such manoeuvres. Pakistan encountered significant protests in response to the stringent structural policy reforms mandated by the IMF as part of the conditions for its recent bailout. These protests led to strikes across the country and are the latest episode in an ongoing political crisis that has gripped Pakistan for over a year and a half. With US encouragement, the Pakistani military played a role in orchestrating a vote of no confidence in April 2022 to remove Prime Minister Imran Khan from power. Prior to Khans removal, American State Department diplomats privately expressed dissatisfaction to their Pakistani counterparts regarding what they viewed as Pakistans aggressively neutral stance on the Ukraine conflict during Khans leadership. They warned of serious repercussions if Khan remained in office and promised forgiveness of past issues if he were ousted. Following Khans removal, Islamabad became a valuable ally of the United States and its coalition partners in the Ukraine conflict, and this support has now been reciprocated with an IMF loan. This emergency loan allowed the new Pakistani government to avert an impending economic crisis and indefinitely delay scheduled elections. A nonresident scholar at the Middle East Institute and specialist on Pakistan, Arif Rafiq, said: Pakistani democracy may ultimately be a casualty of Ukraines counteroffensive. As per The Intercept, Pakistan is known as a production hub for the types of basic munitions needed for grinding warfare. As Ukraine grappled with chronic shortages of munitions and hardware, the presence of Pakistani-produced shells and other ordinances by the Ukrainian military has surfaced in open-source news reports about the conflict, though neither the US nor the Pakistanis have acknowledged the arrangement. A source within the Pakistani military leaked records detailing the arms transactions earlier this year. The documents describe munitions sales agreed to between the US and Pakistan from the summer of 2022 to the spring of 2023. The authentication process was done by matching the signature of an American brigadier general with his signature on publicly available mortgage records in the United States; by matching the Pakistani documents with corresponding American documents; and by reviewing publicly available but previously unreported Pakistani disclosures of arms sales to the US posted by the State Bank of Pakistan. Documents by Global Military Products reveal that the weapons deals were brokered. Global Military Products is a subsidiary of Global Ordnance, a controversial arms dealer whose entanglements with less-than-reputable figures in Ukraine were the subject of a recent New York Times article. Documents outlining the money trail and talks with US officials include American and Pakistani contracts, licensing, and requisition documents related to US-brokered deals to buy Pakistani military weapons for Ukraine. The economic capital and political goodwill from the arms sales played a key role in helping secure the bailout from the IMF, with the State Department agreeing to take the IMF into confidence regarding the undisclosed weapons deal, according to sources with knowledge of the arrangement, and confirmed by a related document, according to The Intercept. With inputs from ANI. According to a reports, Iran and the United States have been notified that $6 billion in frozen Iranian cash had been transferred to accounts in Qatar. This has led to a meticulously planned exchange of five detainees on Monday between the two bitter rivals. The monies, which had been blocked in South Korea, will be in Irans custody on Monday, according to Nasser Kanaani, a spokesman for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, allowing the arrangement negotiated by Qatar over months of negotiations to proceed. The United States made no quick public comments. Both parties have been notified by Qatar that all $6 billion has been transferred from Switzerland to bank accounts in Qatar, the source briefed on the matter told Reuters. A Qatari aircraft is on standby in Iran waiting to fly five soon-to-be released U.S. citizens and two relatives to Doha on Monday morning. According to the agreement, the five dual-national Americans would fly from Tehran to Doha in Qatar before returning to the United States. Five Iranians who are being held in the US will be freed in exchange. Two would go back to Iran, while two would stay in the United States at their request, according to a representative for the Iranian Foreign Ministry. He stated that one detainee will visit his family in a different nation. The agreement, which was made public for the first time on August 10, will end a significant source of friction between Washington and Tehran, while the two still have a number of fundamental differences, including Irans nuclear goals, its influence in the region, U.S. sanctions, and Americas military presence in the Gulf. The foreign ministry of South Korea had said on Monday it was working with all parties on the deal to ensure smooth progress of all procedures so that it will be resolved once and for all. Siamak Namazi, 51, Emad Sharqi, 59, both businesspeople, and Morad Tahbaz, 67, an environmentalist with dual British and American citizenship, are among the dual citizens of the United States who will be freed. They were placed under home arrest after being freed from prison last month. A fifth American was already under house arrest when a fourth American was freed and placed under house arrest. Their identities remain a secret. The five Iranians who will be freed by the United States are Mehrdad Moin-Ansari, Kambiz Attar-Kashani, Reza Sarhangpour-Kafrani, Amin Hassanzadeh, and Kaveh Afrasiabi, according to Iranian officials. Afrasiabi would stay in the United States, according to two Iranian officials who did not name any others. Since Donald Trump, a Republican, pulled the United States out of a nuclear agreement between Iran and major powers in 2018, when he was president, relations between Washington and Tehran have been on the boil. Since then, there hasnt been much progress towards reaching another nuclear agreement as President Joe Biden gets ready for the 2024 presidential election. Washington lifted sanctions as part of the agreement to permit the movement of $6 billion in Iranian funds from South Korea to Qatar. When Washington slapped stringent financial sanctions on Tehran, the money could not be transferred and was instead blocked in South Korea, which is typically one of Irans biggest oil clients. In order to ensure that the unfrozen monies are used for non-sanctioned humanitarian supplies like food and medicine, Doha promised to monitor how Iran uses them. U.S. Republicans have criticised the transfer of Irans finances, claiming that Biden, a Democrat, is essentially paying a ransom for American citizens. The arrangement has been defended by the White House. (With agency inputs) The Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO) has called on China to offer greater transparency regarding the origins of COVID-19 and expressed readiness to dispatch a second investigative team to examine the matter. The genesis of the pandemic remains unclear almost four years after the first cases were reported in Wuhan, China, Financial Times reported. We are urging China to provide full access, and we are encouraging countries to raise this issue in their bilateral discussions, urging Beijing to cooperate, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, adding We have already formally requested information from them and are also prepared to send a team if they grant us permission to do so. These comments from the WHO chief come as health authorities update vaccines in response to a surge in COVID-19 cases. While scientists agree that the world is no longer in the acute phase of the pandemic, the global health body emphasised the need for nations to enhance surveillance of the highly mutated BA.2.86 and other Omicron subvariants, according to Financial Times, a British daily business newspaper. Next week, world leaders will discuss pandemic preparedness during high-level meetings at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Tedros revealed that he travelled to Beijing in January 2020 to persuade Chinese President Xi Jinping to allow the first WHO mission of experts to investigate Covid-19. This mission, led by Bruce Aylward of the WHO, marked the initial foray into China to examine the viruss origins. Two primary theories about the viruss origins are under consideration: a zoonotic jump from animals to humans through Wuhans wet markets or contagion originating from an accidental release from the citys virology laboratory. However, no scientific consensus has been reached. Tedros emphasized that all possibilities remain on the table, stating, Unless we have evidence beyond a reasonable doubt, we cannot make definitive conclusions. But I believe we will find the answer. Its just a matter of time. Regarding his meeting with President Xi, Tedros explained, I met with the president and the officials beneath him initially hesitated to permit us to send a team. So I had to travel there to explain why it was so crucial. A day after Tedros returned to Geneva, the WHO declared COVID-19 a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, the highest designation possible. It was only lifted in May of this year. Critics accused the WHO of being lenient in response to Chinas initial slow reaction, which they contend allowed the virus to spread globally. Tedros rejected this assertion, stating that the organization collaborated with China when it took measures to control the virus and openly criticized Beijing when it hindered the investigation into the viruss origins. The WHO conducted its first investigation into the origins of Covid-19 in China in early 2021 but returned with an inconclusive and widely criticised report, citing a lack of cooperation from Beijing. Tedros stated, Regarding the origin study, when they refused to give us full access, we began private discussions, and when they continued to resist cooperation, we made it public. He emphasized the importance of uncovering the viruss origin: If we determine the origin, we can prevent the next outbreak. This is a matter of science. It would be morally wrong not to know what happened. Tedros noted that the pandemic was politicized from the beginning. In mid-2020, former U.S. President Donald Trump temporarily withdrew funding and threatened to withdraw the United States from the WHO amid increasing scrutiny of the viruss outbreak. Such actions complicated efforts to establish global solidarity in managing the public health crisis, according to Tedros. While there are still no answers for all those who have suffered from this pandemic, Tedros highlighted that the COVID-19 crisis has prompted many governments to recognize the value of enhancing the resilience of their healthcare systems. In many countries, health was not considered central to development, and it was viewed as an expense, he said. Now, after the pandemic, people are starting to realise that it is an investment that can prevent future pandemics, he added. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning announces: At the invitation of Secretary Nikolai Patrushev of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs Wang Yi will hold the 18th round of China-Russia strategic security consultation in Russia from September 18 to 21. HTech launched the HONOR 90, the companys latest smartphone, as a comeback to the Indian market after over 3 years. This was introduced in several markets a few months back as the successor to last years HONOR 80 brining several upgrades in terms of display, SoC, camera, battery and lots more. Is this worth the price? Lets dive into the review to find out. Box Contents We didnt get the Indian retail unit for review, which doesnt come with a charger in the box. As part of the bundle deal, users will also receive a complimentary 30W Type-C charger that is fully compatible with the HONOR 90 as a part of the launch offer, said the company. Display, Hardware and Design Starting with the display, the HONOR 90 has a 6.7-inch Full HD+ quad curved AMOLED screen with a pixel resolution of 2664 1200 pixels, 20:9 aspect ratio and a pixel density of about 436 PPI. There is also smart screen resolution option. The display is bright, since it has up to 1600 nits peak brightness, and the sunlight legibility is good as well. The colours are vibrant as well, thanks to 100% DCI-P3 color gamut. The phone ranked first in its segment in the DXOMARK Display rating, said the company. The phone has a 120Hz refresh rate. It also has HDR support, which works for YouTube, Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. Under the display options, there are Normal and Vivid options. You also get video enhancer option that boosts colors and contrast for apps like YouTube, Prime Video, Netflix and more. The phone has, 3840Hz PWM Dimming technology that minimizes flicker, reducing eye strain and ensuring a comfortable viewing experience for users. The phones Dynamic Dimming feature replicates natural light conditions, reducing eye fatigue by up to 18%. The displays brightness adjusts subtly based on external lighting conditions and usage duration, prioritizing user comfort, said the company. You also get always on display feature. The phone has a punch-hole screen that houses a 50-megapixel camera. There is minimal bezel below the screen. The phone users a toughened glass for protection. The phone has a power button and volume rockers on the right side. The dual SIM slots, primary microphone, USB Type-C port and the speaker grill are present on the bottom. The secondary microphone is present on the top. The phone has a glass back. The Emerald Green model that we have comes with a matte finish that doesnt attract fingerprints. The phone has a Dual Ring Design that follows an elegant and balanced Mirror Luna concept, incorporating intersecting circles and ellipses inspired by the captivating patterns of Lunar phases, said the company. It also comes in a Diamond Silver colour with rounded elements inspired by haute couture and craftsmanship seen in luxury jewellery. There is also the Midnight Black with a glossy finish. The phone comes with a 5000mAh battery, yet weighs 183 grams. It doesnt have IP ratings. Camera 200MP camera with 1/1.4-inch Samsung ISOCELL HP3 sensor, f/1.9 aperture, LED flash, 4K video recording 12MP ultra-wide camera with f/2.2 aperture, macro option 2MP depth sensor with f/2.4 aperture 50MP front camera with f/2.4 aperture, 4K video recording The camera UI is familiar with most HONOR smartphones with MagicUI that include a quick toggles between main camera, ultra-wide camera, zoom option on the bottom, quick toggles for flash, AI, motion photo, filters on the top. Other camera features include Aperture, Night mode, Multi-cam, Pro mode, Slow-mo, Panorama, HDR photo, HDR video, Time-lapse, stickers, Super macro, High-res, Solo cut, Story and Scan document. Daylight shots came out well, thanks to the 200MP sensor, and the dynamic range is better with auto HDR. There is AI mode which recognizes different photo scenes and automatically adjusts camera settings to make boost the colours. 2X and 4X are good. The portrait mode is decent and the macro option with the ultra-wide camera is good. The 12MP ultra-wide camera does a good job, but it is not as good as the main camera in low-light that offer a lot of details and less noise. The night mode is useful, but it takes a few seconds to process. The front camera also does a good job in daylight. The bokeh shots good with decent edge detection. Check out the camera samples It can record videos in up to 4K 30 fps from both the front and rear cameras, as well as the ultra-wide camera, and you can switch between the cameras seamlessly. The AI video mode recommends the modes, and the multi-cam mode is interesting. There is also a separate HDR video mode that also works in 4K, and a Portrait video mode that is limited to 1080p 30fps. EIS works well, but the phone lacks OIS, so EIS is always enabled, and there is no option to turn it off. EIS doesnt work well if you add filters, so you can notice the shake. Software, UI and Apps The HONOR 90 runs MagicOS 7.1, powered by Android 13 with Android security patch for July, 2023. The company has promised 2 years of software update and 3 years of security patches. This has Google apps and the Google Play Store. There is HonorShare that lets you seamlessly transfer cross-system files between an HONOR smartphone and a PC with HONOR Computer Manager. There is multiscreen collaboration, so you can share screens, keyboards, and mice among different devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. It has MagicText that intelligently identifies text within an image and converts it into a file. You can capture text using the camera and save it as a PDF file. There is HONOR Health app. The version we have had some pre-loaded apps, but the HTech CEO said that the company is committed to providing a clean user experience, avoiding bloatware, and offering a smooth, stable interface. There are gesutres and multi-window feature. A few things that needs improvements in the Magic UI is that you cant go to an apps settings with a long press to control permissions. There is no option to switch to vibrate mode with the volume buttons. The version we have packs 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM, and there is also a 8GB RAM version. You also get up to 7GB of virtual RAM, which is enabled by default. There is 256GB UFS 3.1 of storage, and there is also a 512GB storage version, but you only get 8GB + 256GB and 12GB + 512GB options in India. Out of 12GB RAM, you get 11.01GB of usable RAM, out of which about 7GB of RAM is free on boot with just the default apps running in the background. Out of 256GB of internal storage, you get about 222.7GB of usable storage. We got sequential read speeds of about 1616.9/s, which is good for a phone with UFS 3.1 storage. Fingerprint sensor and Face unlock It has an in-display fingerprint sensor that unlocks the phone quickly, but it is not as fast as a physical fingerprint sensor. You can add up to 5 fingerprints. You can also use the fingerprint for app local and payments in apps. Furthermore, you can change the fingerprint animation and also disable it. Music Player and Multimedia YouTube Music is the default Music Player. There are Histen sound effects with Auto, 3D audio, Natural and Standard modes, which works when wired or wireless headset is connected. It doesnt have FM Radio support. Audio through the mono speakers are decent, but it is disappointing that the phone doesnt come with stereo speakers to come with cheaper models that have stereo speakers. Audio through earphones are good. This has Widevine L1, so that you can play HD content on Netflix and other streaming apps. It supports HDR content on YouTube, Netflix and Prime Video. Dual SIM and Connectivity The HONOR 90 has support for n1/n2/n3/n5/n7/n8/n20/n28/n38/n40/n41/n66/n77/n78 5G Network Bands in India. It has 4G Wi-Fi and VoLTE, with support for Carrier Aggregation on 4G. Other connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6 802.11 ax (2.4GHz + 5GHz), VoWiFi / Wi-Fi calling support, Bluetooth 5.2, GPS / GLONASS / Beidou. It has OTG support and NFC support. Moving on, the call quality is good, and we did not face any call drops and the earpiece volume was loud. Since, we dont have the Indian retail unit, we dont have the SAR value for the phone in India. Performance and Benchmarks This is one of the first phones to be powered by Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 Accelerated Edition 4nm Mobile Platform as the successor to Snapdragon 778G and 778G+. This has Qualcomm Kryo (A710-based) CPU that brings higher performance up to 2.5 GHz compared to 2.4 GHz in the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1. There is Adreno 644 GPU, which promises up to 20% faster graphics rendering compared to 778G. The GPU offers a smooth gaming performance even in graphic intensive games. The phone gets a bit warm on intensive gaming or when recording 4K videos for long, but it doesnt too hot. The phone has a 4483mm grand arterial biomimetic VC cooling, Gen 3 high thermal conductivity graphite sheet and Aero grade high thermal conductivity gel. We did not face any issues or frame drops in the graphic-intensive games like COD, BGMI and Genshin Impact. It reached maximum 41.8 in our testing indoors in Wi-Fi, but this might vary outdoors in 4G or 5G. That said, check out some synthetic benchmark scores below. This clearly shows almost similar performance as the Nord CE 3 in AnTuTu, but the CPU performance is better than the 778G. However, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 is way better. Some phones even offer Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 in the price range. Battery life Coming to the battery life, the phone packs a 5000mAh (typical) built-in battery, slightly bigger than the HONOR 80. It lasts for a whole day with Wi-Fi, but with 4G or 5G and dual SIMs. I got about 4 and half hours of screen on time with over a day of use on Wi-Fi and in 120Hz. This is decent, but not impressive since the chip is not power efficient, even though the MagicUI has several optimizations. Since the phone has support for 66W, SuperCharge fast charging that can charge up to 50% in about 20 minutes and up to 100% in less than an hour. However, the phone doesnt come with a charger in the box, and as a part of launch offer, the company only offers 30W fast charging, so that charging time will be more with the charger. Conclusion At a starting price of Rs. 37,999 for the 8GB + 256GB, the HONOR 90 is a decent phone considering the value it offers. Of course, the display and the camera features are impressive, but the performance to value ratio could have been better. Even the lack of OIS is acceptable since EIS does a decent job, but the phone lacks stereo speakers. Hope the company takes care of these in its next phone. Alternatives There is OnePlus Nord 3 in under Rs. 35,000 price range, and if you spend a bit more, there is OnePlus 11R. There are also iQOO Neo 7 Pro, and POCO F5, if you want better performance at a cheaper rate. Pricing and availability The HONOR 90 is priced Rs. 37,999 for the 8GB + 256GB and the 12GB + 512GB model costs Rs. 39,999. However, as a part of launch offer, there is Rs. 3000 instant discount for purchases using CC, DC, or EMI transactions through ICICI and SBI Bank cards. There is also Rs. 5000 instant discount for the first sale, which might attract the buyers, since these bring the effective price of the phone down to Rs. 29,999. There is additional Rs. 2,000 discount when you exchange old smartphones while purchasing the HONOR 90. The HONOR 90 will be available from Amazon.in and offline stores as well Reliance stores, starting from September 18th. Pros Brilliant display Good cameras Smooth performance Decent battery life Cons No Stereo speakers No OIS No charger in the box Sony has started teasing the launch of its next TWS earbuds in India on September 27th. The teaser says What happens when #TheBestSilence drops by Sony?, and the company says Get ready to experience the ultimate audio revolution. This should be the Sony WF-1000XM5, which was introduced back in July, and has several improvements including a new and comfortable design, reducing the size and weight by approximately 25% compared to their predecessor, the WF-1000XM4. This also has LDAC technology, real-time audio enhancement through Edge-AI, Head tracking that provides an immersive listening experience, up to 8 hours of battery life (16 hours with the charging case) and quick charging that promises 60 minutes of play in just 3 minutes. Additionally, the earbuds are water-resistant with an IPX4 rating. We should know the price when the earbuds go official in India on September 27th. Basically the entire town becomes one big gigantic car show and cruise. There's been a lot of talk and debate about the Rod Run over the past several years. In a nutshell, shows like the Rod Run and Shades of the Past helped explode the economy and tourism of Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Gatlinburg. A lot of that used to happen in Gatlinburg way back in the day. Then as the years rolled by, and the local fat cats got fatter, the town leaders started saying they didn't want the shows. And they had good reasons like alcohol, loud engines, congestion, garbage, etc. Now that the economy has taken a downturn, I haven't heard that much rumbling about that lately. But I will say this---I've watched the ups and downs of Sevierville-PF-Gatlinburg for decades. When the economy takes a downward turn, and the price of everything goes up, it seems like that area explodes. And the only explanation I've ever thought about is how that area is a day's drive from something like half of the U.S. population. As a result, I think a lot of families just say "We'll go to Pigeon Forge this year instead of the cruise, beach, Hawaii, etc." I've met people in Pigeon Forge and even Gatlinburg who've been coming there for years and never once ventured into the National Park. Welcome to my genealogy blog. Genea-Musings features genealogy research tips and techniques, genealogy news items and commentary, genealogy humor, San Diego genealogy society news, family history research and some family history stories from the keyboard of Randy Seaver (of Chula Vista CA), who thinks that Genealogy Research Is really FUN! Copyright (c) Randall J. Seaver, 2006-2023. U.S. and Saudi Arabia Conduct Combined Counter-UAS Exercise U.S. Central Command USCENTCOM Sept 14, 2023 Release Number 20230914-01 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE HAFAR AL-BATIN, Saudi Arabia. -- Gen. Michael "Erik" Kurilla, commander, U.S. Central Command, and Gen. Fayyad al-Ruwali, Chief of General Staff, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, along with other leaders from both militaries, observed the second exercise iteration by the Red Sands Integrated Experimentation Center. Red Sands 23.2 highlighted the significant progress the two nations have made toward defeating Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) that pose a threat from adversaries. Red Sands 23.2 is the culmination of months of rapid prototyping and continued development building off the earlier exercise. This iteration of Red Sands included training, operational demonstrations, and testing of nine systems employing various kinetic and non-kinetic techniques to destroy or disable UAS'. "Rapid development sprints, as demonstrated in Red Sands 23. 2, allow us to tackle the most challenging military problems and realize solutions to emergent threats more rapidly than traditional development," said Gen. Kurilla. "Doing this in conjunction with our close Saudi partners, adds to the effectiveness of this developing technique and allows us to achieve our goals faster." From the U.S. side, the U.S. Army Central Task Force 39 led the Red Sands 23.2 live fire phase at the Shamal-2 Range in northeastern Saudi Arabia. TF 39's mission is finding and testing innovative capabilities and techniques to counter adversary UAS for U.S. Army Central. In partnership with their Saudi counterparts, TF 39 worked with both military and commercial vendors to demonstrate and test the most promising emergent capabilities aimed at countering these systems. "The UAS threat is real, and the Red Sands Integrated Experimentation Center represents a significant step, not only in defeating UAS threats, but in demonstrating a shared commitment to regional security by both Saudi and U.S. forces," said Gen. Kurilla. "This also highlights the value CENTCOM component innovation task forces provide to solving shared security concerns." Future iterations of Red Sands exercises will build on successes and knowledge gained in Red Sands 23.2 by U.S. and Saudi Armed Forces as they continue to work together to solve challenging military problems. -30- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Latvia and Estonia Take a Step Closer to the Historically Largest Investment in Their Air Defence with the Signing of an Umbrella Agreement Republic of Latvia - Ministry of Defence 09/14/2023 - 03:30 Capabilities International cooperation Information prepared by Media Relations Section On Monday, September 11, in the city of Rotenbach, Germany, Latvian Defence Minister Inara Murniece and Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur signed the umbrella agreement on the purchase of the IRIS-T medium-range air defence system manufactured by the German company Diehl Defence. "It is perfectly clear that we cannot have any illusions regarding Russia. Ukraine's experience demonstrates the importance of a modern air defence system. Until now, only short range air defence systems have been available for the Latvian National Armed Forces, but the IRIS-T system will enable effective and comprehensive defence within the medium range, and it is compatible with NATO systems, thus providing benefits not only to Latvia but to the entire region," emphasizes Inara Murniece. This will be the largest investment in air defence in the history of Latvia and Estonia. It has already been reported that the IRIS-T air defence system is capable of averting threats posed by enemy aircraft and drones within a radius of up to 40 kilometres and at altitudes of up to 20 kilometres. The joint procurement of one type of system will allow Latvia and Estonia to save budgetary funds and facilitate mutual coordination in the defence of the Baltic States region. As negotiations with the supplier continue, it is planned that after the conclusion of the agreement, the procurement will be implemented within the next three years. Until then, Latvia still has a substantial amount of work to do, including personnel training, infrastructure improvement, and other tasks, to ensure that upon the delivery of these systems the National Armed Forces are fully prepared to use and maintain them. Furthermore, the Defence Ministers of Latvia and Estonia signed a joint letter of intent with German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius regarding the future participation of both countries in the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI), which is a project aimed at creating integrated European-level air defence. It has already been reported that Latvia's goal is to establish a multi-layered air defence system, where air defence systems of various range not only protect other ground assets but also provide mutual protection to each other. Each successive layer increases the overall resilience of the entire system against adversary activity. The development of such air defence capabilities in Latvia is one of the government's priorities. Prepared by: MoD Military Public Affairs Department Media Relations Section Senior desk officer Arturs Danga Phone: 67335067 E-mail: Arturs.Danga@mod.gov.lv NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General Department of Public Information . News and Media Division . New York 14 September 2023 The following is a near-verbatim transcript of today's noon briefing by Stephane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General. ** Press Briefings Good afternoon. We will be joined, after you are done with me, by David Nanopoulos, the Chief of the Treaty Section, and Vladimir Jares, the Director of the Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea of the Office of Legal Affairs (OLA). They will join us to brief you on the annual Treaty Event which is expected on the sidelines of the General Assembly. Then Monica [Grayley] will brief you on behalf of the President of the General Assembly. Then, at 1 p.m., Alex Wong, the Senior Adviser for Strategic Engagement and Initiatives, at the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), and Robert Opp, the Chief Digital Officer of the UN Development Programme (UNDP), will brief you on SDG Digital an event that will be held in ECOSOC (Economic and Social Council) over the coming weekend (16-17 September). Tomorrow, at 10 a.m., in the SDG (Sustainable Development Goals) Pavilion, which, you may have noticed, was built over the last few weeks on the North Lawn beautiful building, temporary structure there will be a press briefing by the Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, to preview the SDG Summit and High-Level Week of the seventy-eighth session [of the UN General Assembly]. Joining the DSG will be Achim Steiner, the Head of UNDP (United Nations Development Programme); Selwin Hart, who is, as you know, the Special Adviser to the Secretary-General for Climate Action; and Francesca Spatolisano, the Assistant Secretary-General for Policy Coordination and Inter-Agency Affairs in the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA). Then at 11 a.m., here in this room, there will be a briefing on the launch of the annual Energy Compact progress report. Energy Compacts are high-impact initiatives in support of the SDG Summit. Speaking there will be Damilola Ogunbiyi, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Sustainable Energy for All and Co-Chair of UN-Energy; and she will be joined by Haoliang Xu, the Under-Secretary-General and Associate Administrator of UNDP. That will be tomorrow. ** Cuba Back to today. The Secretary-General took off for Cuba a few hours ago. As he told you, he is on his way to the G77+China Summit in Havana. Today, he is expected to meet with President Miguel Diaz-Canel and other senior Cuban officials. He will also meet with the UN team on the ground. And tomorrow, he will deliver an appeal at the opening ceremony of the Summit, in which he will ask these countries to champion a system rooted in equality, a system ready to reverse the injustice and neglect of centuries and a system that delivers for all humanity. He will also reiterate his call to reform the international financial system and multilateral institutions to reflect today's world and ensure the voices of developing countries are heard. ** Libya Turning to Libya: Martin Griffiths, the Emergency Relief Coordinator, said today that the scale of the flood disaster in Libya is shocking and it is heart-breaking. Entire neighbourhoods were wiped off the map. He said that thousands have died, tens of thousands are now homeless and many more remain unaccounted for. Mr. Griffiths said the UN is on the ground, and we are deploying a robust team to support and resource the international response, in coordination with first responders and Libyan authorities. He immediately released $10 million from the UN's Central Emergency Response Fund, and a humanitarian appeal for $71 million for immediate needs in Libya was issued today to respond to the most pressing needs of 250,000 people, out of an overall 884,000 people in need. The appeal may be updated as additional information becomes available. As you may have seen, Professor Petteri Taalas, the head of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), said today that the tragedy in Libya highlights the devastating and cascading consequences of extreme weather on fragile States and shows the need for multi-hazard early warning systems which embrace all levels of government and society. ** Democratic Republic of the Congo Turning to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) says that since the beginning of the month, 50 civilians have been killed in Ituri province. The attacks in the territories of Djugu, Irumu and Mahagi bring the total number of people killed in the province so far this year to 700. Our humanitarian partners continue to step up aid in the province, including emergency food support. They reached more than 400,000 people in Ituri in August. OCHA continues to negotiate humanitarian access with the provincial authorities. Violence in Ituri has displaced more than 1.7 million people, with more than one third of the province's population uprooted in the last 18 months alone. ** Syria Turning to the situation in Syria, Volker Turk, the High Commissioner for Human Rights, said today that the recent outbreak of fighting in the north-east, between Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Arab-led Deir-ez-Zor Military Council (DMC) has heavily impacted civilians and risk worsening an already dire humanitarian crisis. He added that the warning signs of a further fragmentation to the conflict are alarming. He called on all parties to this latest flare-up to end their fighting, and work to resolve their differences through dialogue to avoid opening another catastrophic dimension to the Syrian conflict. For his part, the Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, said that he continues to follow with concern the situation in Sweida, stressing the need to protect civilians and respect the rights to peaceful protest. He said he had raised today his concerns with key members of the Ceasefire Task Force in Geneva and underscored the importance of moving forward on the political track in line with Security Council resolution 2254 (2015). ** Security Council Back here this morning, the Security Council held an open debate on "Maintenance of International Peace and Security: Advancing public-private humanitarian partnership". Briefing Council members was Cindy McCain, the Head of the World Food Programme (WFP). She pointed out that demand for the World Food Programme's services is rising relentlessly, and this is happening right across the UN and the wider humanitarian system. She said that up to 783 million people do not know when or if they will eat again. Ms. McCain noted that WFP has had to make agonizing choices to cut food rations for millions of vulnerable people, and sadly, more cuts are on the way. She warned that this is the humanitarian community's new reality our new normal - and we will be dealing with the fallout for years to come. ** World Meteorological Organization A new multi-agency report coordinated by the World Meteorological Organization says that lack of progress on the climate crisis undermines global efforts to reach the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs. The report, titled "United in Science", makes a systematic examination of the impact of climate change and extreme weather on the SDGs. It also shows how weather, climate and water-related sciences can help advance the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, including food and water security, clean energy, better health and sustainable oceans. For example, the report shows how weather predictions help boost food production and move us closer to zero hunger. ** Questions and Answers Spokesman : Joe? Question : Yes. Does the Secretary-General have any comment on reports of China's use of its military forces, warships and planes to encircle Taiwan? Spokesman : Nothing further than what we've already said, because it's not the first time we've seen it. Edie? Question : Thank you, Steph. Can you give us an update on any new actions that the UN might be taking next week on reviving the Black Sea Grain Initiative? For instance, is Rebeca Grynspan involved in doing anything? Is she going to Moscow? Is... Spokesman : I don't think she'll be going to Moscow. I have to check her travel. Nothing more than what the Secretary-General said to you yesterday. Question : And is there an update from the UN on the situation in Haiti and the prospects of a Kenyan police force deploying? Spokesman : No, this would be a... right, non-UN multinational force. My understanding from what the reports we've seen is that discussions are ongoing. What we do know is that the situation in the country continues to deteriorate. Senor? Question : Hi, Steph. On the Western Sahara, last Monday, the Secretary-General met with the leader of the Frente Polisario. He didn't release, as far as I know, any statement or communique. I wonder why. [Brahim] Ghali said that he has been very critical with the United Nations. What did the Secretary-General reply? And finally, will we ever have the occasion to see Mr. [Staffan] de Mistura here, now that he has visited for the first time the territories? Thank you very much. Spokesman : I have nothing for you right now on the meeting. Mr. de Mistura, we will try to see when we can get him here. As you know, he's always happy to speak to reporters when he feels he can move the process forward. And I should have an update on his travels shortly. Carrie, then James. Question : Thanks, Steph. Yesterday, the SG talked about how outdated the multilateralism tools were. So, we know he's really committed into the finance multilateralism tools. But we guess also that he was talking about the need to reform the Security Council. What has he planned for next week? Has he planned bilats and to talk about it at bilats? Has he planned a special meeting about it? Do you have something like...? Spokesman : Well, he has raised this issue very publicly for quite a long time, talking about the outdated structure of the Security Council, including the fact that there is not one representation from the African continent on the Council. This is an issue he brings up regularly with Member States, not only in public but in private, but at the end of the day, any change on the structure is one for Member States to move forward on. And, as you know, I think definitely yes, there have been discussions in the General Assembly format for quite some time on this. Question : Any [inaudible]? Spokesman : Well, you could ask Monica if there's anything planned within the General Assembly. But as I said, these are issues the SG brings up regularly. Question : Yeah. It was a follow-up on what you just said on Western Sahara, your non-answer on Western Sahara. If the Secretary-General had a meeting, why is it shrouded in secrecy? Number 1. Number 2, Staffan de Mistura, yes, spoke to us a great deal when he was the Special Envoy for Syria. He hasn't done a single press interaction in his current job. Why does the UN shroud this one file in such total secrecy? Spokesman : I don't think it's shrouded in secrecy. I think each file needs to be handled in the best way possible. On Mr. de Mistura, you've known him as long as I have. And I think he is very scientific, one could say, in how he interacts with the media. And I think when he feels he can help move the process forward, he will do that. What I can tell you is that he is in Algiers where he had useful meetings with the Foreign Minister, Ahmed Attaf, of Algeria about the Western Sahara political process. Previously, as you know, he had been in New York where he met bilaterally with Brahim Ghali, the Secretary-General of the Frente Polisario; that took place on 11 September in the context of his ongoing regional visits and meetings, which are taking place ahead of the release of the Secretary-General's report on Western Sahara to the Security Council in October. Excellent. I will go get my guests. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Opening remarks: Launch of Norway's 5th National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security Government of Norway Speech/statement | Date: 15/09/2023 By Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt Minister Huitfeldt's opening remarks at the lunch of Norway's 5th National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security, held at Marmorhallen in Oslo. (Check against delivery) Excellencies, colleagues, guests, Today, I am honoured to launch Norway's 5th National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security. Norway was among the first countries in the world to develop a national action plan on women, peace and security in 2006. At that time, civil society and research institutions were the driving forces in creating an action plan. Today, 6 government ministries collectively contribute to the development and implementation of the action plan. And consultations with civil society and academia still provide valuable input and perspectives. In addition to my government colleagues, we have with us Mahbouba Seraj - a women's rights activist from Afghanistan. I have had the pleasure to engage with Ms Seraj on previous occasions, including in the UN Security Council where she has briefed on the dire situation for women after the Taliban takeover. The insights she shares, and those shared by other women on the ground in Afghanistan, can be uncomfortable to listen to. But they are crucial in informing international engagement. And they show the consequences of excluding women from political processes and efforts to build sustainable peace. The past few years have shown a clear need to intensify global women, peace and security efforts. In prevention, in ongoing conflicts, and when new conflicts erupt. We are witnessing a pushback on women's rights at both the global and regional level. The war in Ukraine has demonstrated how a conflict can both mobilise and affect an entire population. It has shown how the impacts of war depend on people's gender and sexual identity, and that war is still an arena dominated by men. The action plan highlights Norway's ambitions to strengthen and broaden our efforts for women, peace and security at home and abroad. By emphasizing the link between national and international efforts. The links between climate security and the women, peace and security agenda. And by expanding the scope of priority countries and increasing emphasis security policy. We work closely with partner countries on developing the agenda and share experiences on national action plans. And we work with the UN, regional organisations and civil society to advance women, peace and security efforts in conflict and post-conflict countries. Both the OSCE and NATO emphasise the need for training, for gender sensitive analyses of conflicts, and implications for the operational part of their mandate. Our thematic priorities span longstanding efforts in peace and reconciliation, humanitarian affairs and human rights, as well as issues such as climate and security and conflict-related sexual violence as a tactic of war. The key point is this: There can be no lasting peace or security without the meaningful participation of women and the protection of women's rights. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Time is running out Government of Norway Speech/statement | Date: 15/09/2023 By Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt (chronicle in Aftenposten) This week, I am visiting Israel and Palestine, 30 years since the first Oslo Accords were signed. As I see it, while the situation may seem bleak, the two-state solution is still the most viable path towards peace between Israelis and Palestinians. Time is about to run out, but we will not give up the efforts for a Palestinian state and a just peace settlement. Rapprochement among countries in the Middle East opens up new opportunities. Israel wants normalisation with more Arab countries, but what would do the most to improve Israel's relations with its neighbours and the rest of the world is a political solution with the Palestinians. Over a decade ago, in 2011, the World Bank stated that the Palestinian Authority had made necessary progress to establish a Palestinian state. That was almost two decades after the signing of the Oslo Accords. The Accords, which were negotiated with the help of Norwegian diplomats, represented a historic milestone. However, no agreement had been reached on the status of Jerusalem, the Israeli settlements, final borders, security, and the Palestinian refugees. Even though essential Palestinian state institutions had been established, ongoing violence undermined much of the trust between the parties. In the absence of a negotiated political solution to resolve the outstanding issues, and given the continued occupation, these institutions alone were not enough for the establishment of a Palestinian state. Far from a two-state solution Today marks 30 years since the signing of the first Oslo Accord, and we are further from a two-state solution than we were in 2011. No peace negotiations have been held for nearly 10 years. The Israeli settlements in the West Bank and in East Jerusalem are claiming more and more Palestinian land. The level of violence has risen over the past year. Since the beginning of January, more than 40 Palestinian children and 6 Israeli children have been killed as a result of the conflict. The situation in Gaza is untenable and new generations are losing hope for the future. Many people no longer believe that a two-state solution is possible. A viable Palestinian state must have territorial contiguity and clearly defined borders. The legitimate security needs of both peoples must be met. Israel's settlement policy is moving the situation on the ground towards a one-state reality, but one where Israelis and Palestinians do not have equal rights. How is Norway responding to the situation? First, given the current situation, it is unacceptable to neither accept a Palestinian state being established, nor to grant equal rights to all in one state. As long as the Palestinians continue to work for and want a state of their own, Norway will continue to support a two-state solution. But we also like to state at this point in time that the only acceptable alternative to a two-state solution is one state with equal rights for all. Second, we must stand up against violations of international law also in the Middle East, regardless of who is responsible. The International Court of Justice in the Hague is preparing an advisory opinion on the legal consequences of Israel's occupation of the Palestinian territories. Norway is participating in this process. Third, The Israeli settlements in occupied territory constitute the greatest obstacle to the two-state solution and are in violation of international law. The Norwegian Government has therefore decided that foodstuffs produced in Israeli settlements must be labelled with their origin. Fourth, Norway will not give up our support to Palestinian institutions and state building, even though progress is limited due to several factors, including the continued occupation, declining political legitimacy of the Palestinian Authority, and internal Palestinian divisions. There is broad agreement internationally, as well as among Palestinian factions and many Israelis, on the need to stabilize and strengthen the Palestinian institutions. Continued support to develop a Palestinian education system and health services, energy, water and to promote Palestinian culture and identity, is important to preserve dignity and self-determination of the Palestinian people. Norway continues to chair the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee (AHLC), which is the international donor group for Palestine, where the Palestinians and Israelis and the international community coordinate efforts to build a sustainable Palestinian economy and viable institutions. However, development aid and what some refer to as 'economic peace' will not be enough. A political solution is needed. Fifth, Norway urges Israeli and Palestinian leaders to renew their effort for a political solution. Although the parties remain far apart at present, our message is clear: peace negotiations must be resumed. The Palestinians must also overcome their internal governance split. The divisions between Gaza and the West Bank are hindering the political aspirations of the Palestinian people. The Palestinian people have a right to a legitimate, inclusive leadership, and Palestinian elections are long overdue. At the same time, we must avoid a repeat of 2006, when the Palestinian government became isolated internationally because the global community disagreed with the election results. In Norway's view, it is important to maintain open lines of communication with all parties, even those we do not agree with. Pursuing an open dialogue with different Palestinian factions is therefore the only real option. In order to achieve progress, what is needed at this juncture is for the Israelis to take clear political decisions towards a two-state solution. This will require a change of course, involving a change in the Israeli Government's current rhetoric and actions, which are serving to increase tensions with the Palestinians. During my visit this week I did take note of statements from the Israeli side that they want to continue the dialogue with the Palestinians. Both parties must take steps to put an end to the violence of extremist groups. Normalisation of relations offers hope 30 years after the signing of the Oslo Accords, time is about to run out for the two-state solution and a viable Palestinian state. At this crossroads, I would therefore emphasise the need for renewed, joint efforts to promote a just peace settlement. Like my colleagues in the Middle East, as well as in Europe, the US, China and other countries in many parts of the world, I believe that a Palestinian state next to Israel, with negotiated borders based on the 1967 lines, is still the best and most sustainable path to peace that would benefit both peoples.. A two-state solution would provide a framework for a wealth of new opportunities for increased cooperation, security, stability and integration in the Middle East. Whereas the situation for the Palestinians has deteriorated, relations between Israel and a number of Arab countries have improved. It is crucial that the needs of the Palestinians are not overlooked in this regional normalisation process. This offers a glimmer of hope. We have already seen the opportunities that rapprochement in the Middle East has opened up for Israel. But the factor that would do the most to improve Israel's relations with its neighbours and the rest of the world is the achievement of a just peace settlement with the Palestinians. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Norway to intensify national and international efforts relating to women, peace and security Government of Norway Press release | Date: 15/09/2023 Norway's new national action plan sets out how we will intensify efforts at national and international level to include women in peace and security work. 'This action plan shows that we are taking the women, peace and security agenda seriously. It is only possible to achieve peace if both women and men are involved. Including women in peace processes is an important priority of Norway's foreign policy, and is essential for sustainable peace', said Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt. The action plan is intended to implement UN Security Council Resolution 1325 and other resolutions on women, peace and security, and also the broader women, peace and security agenda. Norway was one of the first countries to develop a national action plan on women, peace and security, in 2006. Norway is also supporting a number of partner countries and conflict-affected countries in developing their own action plans. Thematic priorities and a larger number of priority countries 'There is broad support for the action plan from the whole Norwegian Government. The plan highlights the importance of women's participation and the integration of a gender perspective in all work on peace and security, both nationally and internationally', said Huitfeldt. The new action plan has three thematic priorities: Peace processes and implementation of peace agreements Security policy and operations Humanitarian efforts, protection of civilians and protection of human rights. The women, peace and security agenda will be given special priority when Norway is working in priority countries (the list has been expanded in the new action plan) and within organisations including the UN, NATO and the OSCE. -Norway will continue its international efforts to promote gender equality. This action plan takes into account both gender diversity and the varying challenges women may face in conflict situations. This is particularly important in these troubled times, when we can see growing pushback against the rights of women and minorities, said Minister of Culture and Equality Lubna Jaffery. Fuller implementation at national level The plan also emphasises the need to integrate the women, peace and security agenda into national defence and security work. This has been highlighted by the war in Ukraine. 'The Government's ambition is to strengthen work on women, peace and security systematically by identifying specific measures that can be introduced by the Armed Forces. The aim is to ensure that Norwegian troops have sufficient insight into the differing security needs of women, men and minorities in conflict-affected areas, and that they understand how these influence the way we should carry out our missions both at home and abroad', said Minister of Defence Bjrn Arlid Gram. The Ministry of Climate and Environment has for the first time contributed to the national action plan. 'Women's participation is important to be able to deal with local conflicts that are affected by climate change. It is also important for climate adaptation and management of nature, water- and food production. In the face of increasingly demanding surroundings, it is important that affected populations meet this with cooperation rather than conflict, which is also an important theme in all peacebuilding. Women often face a different reality than men. It is therefore important that we have a clear gender perspective in our work for peace, the environment and a more climate-resilient society', said Minister of Climate and Environment Espen Barth Eide. The action plan was prepared by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Justice and Public Security, the Ministry of Culture and Equality, the Ministry of Labour and Social Inclusion and the Ministry of Climate and Environment. In addition, Norwegian and international civil society organisations and Norwegian research institutes and other experts have provided input. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The Nordic countries and Baltic States discuss the importance of effective arms control and non-proliferation for international security Republic of Latvia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 15.09.2023 On 15 September 2023, the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted the first meeting of the Nordic and Baltic (Nordic-Baltic Eight, NB8) Directors for Arms Control, Disarmament and Non-Proliferation. As he opened the meeting, Raimonds Oskalns, Director of the Security Policy Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized: "Latvia supports closer NB8 cooperation so that our shared concerns, interests and values would be heard on the international arena. It is in the interest of NB8 countries to have a security environment that is dominated by trust, predictability and clear rules strictly adhered to by all the countries." Russia's aggression against Ukraine has made the most direct impact on the rules-based international order. Arms control treaties and mechanisms focused on the strengthening of security and trust are now facing existential challenges. The directors also addressed matters concerning strategic stability, highlighting the importance of the New START strategic arms reduction treaty and China's involvement in arms control in its capacity of a nuclear power. Views were also exchanged on the nuclear security situation at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, the fulfilment by Iran of its obligations under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and North Korea's ballistic missile tests. The Directors agreed that effective control and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and conventional arms contributed to global and regional security. Backkground The NB8 (Nordic-Baltic Eight) cooperation format comprises Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, and Sweden. Latvia is the coordinating country this year, and one of its priorities in the NB8 coordination effort is related to the strengthening of a rules-based international order. At the suggestion of Latvia, it was for the first time that the NB8 countries discussed current issues of arms control in this format. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Macron accuses Niger of taking French ambassador hostage Iran Press TV Friday, 15 September 2023 6:23 PM French President Emmanuel Macron has accused Niger leaders of taking the European country's ambassador hostage after he refused to comply with an order to leave. Speaking to reporters on Friday, Macron claimed ambassador Sylvain Itte and diplomatic staff "are literally being held hostage in the French embassy." The envoy "cannot go out, he is persona non grata and he is being refused food," he said. He added that the envoy was "eating military rations," alleging that the military rulers were "blocking food deliveries." Niger's military leaders seized power in a coup d'etat on July 26, overthrowing President Mohamed Bazoum, who had the support of France. They gave the French ambassador a 48-hour ultimatum to leave the country in August, but Macron refused to comply or to recognize the legitimacy of the military rulers. At the end of August, the military rulers revoked the diplomatic immunity of the ambassador and ordered the police to expel him from the country. A statement by Niger's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Itte "no longer enjoys the privileges and immunities attached to his status as a member of the diplomatic staff of the embassy." The document also said the diplomatic cards and visas of the ambassador's families have been canceled. Niger's new leaders have also torn up military cooperation agreements with France and asked the country's troops to leave quickly. France was a colonial power in West Africa until 1960. It keeps about 1,500 soldiers in Niger and has so far refused to redeploy its forces. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The Azadi Briefing: Shrinking Food Assistance Hits Afghans Hard By Malali Bashir September 15, 2023 The Key Issue Millions of impoverished Afghans are bearing the brunt of receding international aid to Afghanistan, the world's largest humanitarian crisis. International organizations operating in the country have been forced to cut their assistance to Afghans in the fields of health care and food aid in recent months, largely due to funding shortages. The UN World Food Program (WFP) said last week that it would cut emergency assistance to 2 million vulnerable Afghans by the end of the month because of a "massive funding shortage." Meanwhile, the International Committee of the Red Cross stopped funding 25 hospitals across Afghanistan on August 31, citing a lack of resources. The drop in foreign assistance has directly impacted the lives of Afghans, many of whom are reeling from the devastating economic impact of the Taliban's seizure of power in 2021. "We used to survive on food assistance [from the WFP]," Zarmina, a resident of the northern province of Parwan, told RFE/RL's Radio Azadi. "But now this assistance has been cut off and my situation is dire." Zarmina, 27, is the sole breadwinner for her family of six. She said her family received around 4,000 afghanis ($50) worth of food handouts every six weeks from the WFP. "There's no work for me," she said. "It's very difficult. What are we going to do?" Why It's Important: Declining international assistance will worsen the devastating humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. Around 6 million people -- out of a population of around 40 million -- are already on the brink of starvation, according to the UN. Wahidullah Amani, the spokesperson for the WFP in Afghanistan, told Radio Azadi that the lack of aid will specifically affect women and children, the most vulnerable segments of society. "My children suffer from malnourishment because they don't have enough food to eat," Hamidullah, a resident of the southeastern province of Khost, told Radio Azadi. "All Afghans have the same problem. We ask all humanitarian organizations to help Afghans," added Hamidullah, who is the head of an extended family of 20. What's Next: The cash-strapped Taliban government, which is unrecognized and under international sanctions, appears unable or unwilling to alleviate the economic and humanitarian crisis in the country. Some Afghans have called on the militant group to do more to create employment opportunities and deliver food to the most needy. "The government should solve these problems and provide a chance for people to find work," said Samiullah, a resident of the eastern province of Nangarhar. The Week's Best Stories Afghanistan has seen a surge in the number of female suicides since the Taliban takeover, making the country one of the few in the world where more women take their own lives than men. The spike comes amid the Taliban's severe restrictions on women's lives, including their right to education and employment. What To Keep An Eye On China has become the first country to formally name a new ambassador to Afghanistan since the Taliban takeover. The Chinese envoy presented his credentials to the Taliban's prime minister at a ceremony in Kabul on September 13. The Taliban government has not been recognized by any country in the world. It was unclear if Beijing's appointment was a step towards formal recognition. "This is the normal rotation of China's ambassador to Afghanistan, and is intended to continue advancing dialogue and cooperation between China and Afghanistan," China's Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Why It's Important: It is unclear if the appointment signals China's growing interest in Afghanistan. After the Taliban takeover, there was a surge in Chinese traders visiting Afghanistan to explore business opportunities and ink deals. The Taliban has boasted of Beijing's interest in expanding trade and investing billions of dollars in Afghanistan's mining sector. But experts have said that China's relationship with the Taliban has been limited and largely transactional. Experts said Beijing's primary concern in Afghanistan is the threat posed by members of the Turkestan Islamic Party (TIP), an Uyghur extremist group. The Taliban has been accused of sheltering the militants. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/afghanistan-decline-food-aid-hits- hard/32594151.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'They Deserve Some Peace': U.S. Envoy Rejects Support For Anti-Taliban Factions In Afghanistan By RFE/RL's Radio Azadi September 15, 2023 A top U.S. diplomat to Afghanistan has categorically ruled out Washington's support for a new war in the nation, saying Afghans "deserve some peace" after more than four decades of international conflict ended two years ago when American and international troops left as Taliban militants seized power. In an interview with RFE/RL's Radio Azadi, Karen Decker, the charge d'affaires of the U.S. mission to Afghanistan, dismissed any support for anti-Taliban armed factions such as the National Resistance Front (NRF) and the Afghanistan Freedom Front (AFF), saying Afghans themselves have been adamantly against the launch of any new conflict. "No. Absolutely not! We do not support renewed conflict in Afghanistan. Full stop," she said in response to a question about whether Washington would support these groups. "The one overwhelming message I hear from Afghans inside the country is no more war," she said, adding that Washington would "support" and "promote" a dialogue among Afghans. Most of its neighbors have resisted supporting another round of war in Afghanistan after the hard-line Islamist Taliban swept to power in the wake of the final withdrawal of U.S.-led NATO troops two years ago. After the pro-Western Afghan republic collapsed on August 15, 2021, some defunct Afghan security force members joined the NRF and other smaller groups to attack Taliban forces in the northern provinces of Panjshir and Baghlan. This raised the possibility that four decades of war in Afghanistan could enter a new phase. Ahmad Massoud, the NRF's leader in exile, recently visited Moscow in what was seen as an effort to win support for the NRF and pressure the Taliban, which has marked its two years in power so far by severely restricting rights and freedoms, especially for women. Decker, however, questioned whether the Kremlin could support a new Afghanistan conflict. "The Russians are kind of busy right now doing something else in Ukraine, so I don't know if that is a realistic scenario," she noted in a thinly veiled reference to Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which continues to take a heavy toll on its military resources. "Any proxy warfare? Absolutely not," she said. "The Afghan people have had more than 40 years of war. They deserve some peace." Decker said that Washington supports a dialogue among Afghans to work out the future of their country, including forming an inclusive government. After returning to power, the Taliban's internationally unrecognized government has refused to share power with other Afghan political groups and armed factions. Instead, it has recreated its extremist Islamic emirate. Exclusively led by senior Taliban leaders, the de facto government has banned women from education, work, and public life. The Taliban has also denied Afghans many fundamental rights and freedoms. Taliban officials, however, point to a commission as evidence of their willingness to embrace reconciliation among citizens in the country. The commission has invited former senior government members and state officials to come back to the country as long as they do not participate in politics. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/afghanistan-decker-war-taliban- peace-/32594591.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Central Asian Leaders Address Water Challenges, Security At Summit In Tajikistan By RFE/RL's Tajik Service September 15, 2023 Calls to share scarce water resources and cooperate on security issues featured heavily in a two-day summit of the five Central Asian leaders that wrapped up in Dushanbe on September 15. Joining the heads of Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan for the fifth annual Consultative Meeting of the Leaders of Central Asia was Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, invited as an "honored guest." Amid perceived threats from the Taliban in Afghanistan and persistent droughts and water shortages in the entire region, discussions at the Tajik-hosted event revolved around border security and water-energy resource management. Tajik President Emomali Rahmon expressed concerns about what he called two "alarming" recent attempts by militants affiliated with Jamaat Ansarrulah, an Islamist extremist group based in Afghanistan that is considered a terrorist organization by Dushanbe, to breach his country's border. "We have faced attempts by various terrorist groups to break through and illegally cross the state border. They aimed to commit a series of terrorist attacks in the capital and other regions of Tajikistan," he claimed. Tajikistan said on September 6 that it had killed three members of Jamaat Ansarrulah, which is made up mostly of ethnic Tajiks and aims to overthrow the Tajik government, as they attempted to enter the country in late August. Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov emphasized the region's growing energy and water challenges in recent years, noting increased electricity consumption during harsh winters and a scarcity of water resources in summer. "I propose to begin work on renewing and improving cooperation within the framework of the 1998 agreement on the use of water and energy resources of the Naryn/Syr-Darya [basin] between Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, which provides for a balanced exchange of water and energy resources," he said. Despite that deal on the balanced use of transboundary river-water potential signed 25 years ago, compliance with it has waned in Central Asia as water becomes more scarce. Kazakh President Qasym-Jomart Toqaev called for an action plan to be created to increase industrial cooperation among the Central Asian states. He said the plan would create a closed cycle of production for specific types of goods, with the potential to export them outside the region. Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoev suggested the formation of a free-trade zone without exceptions or restrictions in order to increase trade turnover. "It is necessary to adopt a comprehensive regional program providing for the formation of sustainable trade and logistics chains in the region as well as the opening and expansion of cross-border trade and cooperation centers," Mirziyoev said. The Uzbek president also called for "eliminating barriers to mutual trade, and to create common electronic platforms for customs administration...as well as the launch of a regional e-commerce platform." Turkmen President Serdar Berdymukhammedov expressed his country's readiness to supply natural gas and electricity to fellow Central Asian countries and further abroad via their territories. The first meeting of the leaders of Central Asian states began in 2018, and last year's gathering was held in July in the northern Kyrgyz city of Cholpon-Ata. Just three months later, deadly clashes broke out along the Kyrgyz-Tajik border that led to more than 100 people being killed and hundreds of others injured. The contentious issue of the delimitation and demarcation of the Kyrgyz-Tajik border was not included on the agenda of the September 15 meeting. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/central-asia-leaders-summit-tajikistan- azerbaijan-water-resources-security/32594798.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address EU Hails End Of Monitoring Mechanism for Romania, Bulgaria By RFE/RL's Bulgarian Service, RFE/RL's Romanian Service September 15, 2023 The European Commission formally closed the Cooperation and Verification Mechanism (CVM) for Bulgaria and Romania, introduced in 2007 to monitor the two EU members states' progress on judicial reforms and fighting corruption. Sofia and Bucharest welcomed the September 15 move, saying it was a "recognition" for their efforts to bring their systems in line with the norms of the bloc. Romania and Bulgaria joined the European Union in 2007 and were placed under an unprecedented EU monitoring mechanism as a "transitional measure to facilitate progress" in the fields of judicial reforms and anti-corruption, as well as on organized crime for Bulgaria. The European Commission said now that Sofia and Bucharest "have satisfactorily fulfilled the obligations" set out in the mechanism, thus warranting the termination of the CVM. "I would like to congratulate Bulgaria and Romania for the significant progress they made since their accession to the EU," President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said. "Today we recognize these efforts by putting an end to the CVM." The monitoring of the rule of law in Bulgaria and Romania will continue in the framework of the annual reports, issued by the European Commission for all the EU member states. "Their commitment and close work with the commission over the years has paid off. It will be important to keep the momentum and continue the efforts under the annual rule of law cycle," commission Vice President for Values and Transparency Vera Jourova said. Bulgarian Prime Minister Nikolay Denkov welcomed the removal of the monitoring, saying, "another barrier to be equal with the rest of the European Union countries in every respect has been removed." Romanian President Klaus Iohannis, meanwhile, called the removal of the mechanism "a great success." "However, this is not the time to slow down the anti-corruption fight," Iohannis said, adding that it "still needs constant efforts and tangible results." In October 2019, the commission published its last monitoring report on Bulgaria and in November 2022 the last one on Romania. For both member states, the commission concluded that the two countries had "satisfactorily met their obligations," but needed to continue working to implement "specific commitments listed in the conclusions of the reports." This work was completed as of June 2023, the European Commission said on September 15. Among Bulgaria's last commitments, listed in the 2019 report, was putting in place procedures concerning the accountability of the prosecutor-general. Bulgaria's parliament adopted in June a mechanism for the independent investigation of the prosecutor-general, but it has not been put in practice yet, sparking debate over its effectiveness. Despite the progress, Bulgaria and Romania are still among the lowest-ranking EU member states in Transparency International's annual Corruption Perception Index, alongside Hungary. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/eu-bulgaria-romania-end- monitoring/32594402.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. 'Disappointed' At Serbia-Kosovo Talks, Echoes EU Warning That 'Time Is Running Out' By RFE/RL's Balkan Service September 15, 2023 The United States has expressed disappointment at the lack of progress in the latest round of EU-facilitated talks between Balkan neighbors Serbia and Kosovo aimed at normalizing relations. European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell signaled frustration at Kosovar Prime Minister Albin Kurti after the talks in Brussels on September 14, which also involved Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic. The negotiations are part of a decade-long U.S. and EU diplomatic push to repair some of the wounds from bloody internecine wars in the 1990s, after the breakup of Yugoslavia. "We are disappointed that progress was not made today," a U.S. State Department spokesperson said in a statement to RFE/RL's Balkan Service. "As we've repeatedly said, the EU-facilitated Dialogue is the only path forward for Kosovo and Serbia." Serbia refuses to recognize its former province's 2008 declaration of independence, and tensions between ethnic Serbs and Kosovar institutions spilled over into violence against NATO peacekeepers in May after locals boycotted local elections in four mostly Serb municipalities in northern Kosovo. Belgrade also continues to unilaterally support ethnic Serbs through parallel institutions and ethnic-based political parties, which Pristina regards as illegal meddling. Vucic and Kurti orally agreed to advance the normalization process at mediated talks in February, although specific follow-up steps have failed to materialize. "We expect both countries to take seriously their obligations under the agreement on the path to normalization they reached earlier this year," the State Department said. "Time is running out." It demanded progress including the establishment of an association of Serb-majority municipalities, as Pristina pledged a decade ago but has avoided laying the legal groundwork for. The State Department said it was "united" in support of the Serbia-Kosovo dialogue with the informal decision-making group, known as the Quint, that includes Britain, France, Germany, and Italy. "We will be consulting internally and with our European partners on next steps," it said. Borrell, who mediated the September 14 negotiations and has said he sees resolving the long-running dispute between Belgrade and Pristina as essential to their efforts to join the European Union, said that Kurti rejected Brussels' compromise proposal. Kosovo under Kurti has insisted that Serbia first recognize its independence before relations can be normalized. "Kurti was not ready to take a step forward," Borrell said, adding that the Kosovar leader "insisted instead on formalizing de facto recognition as the first step." Vucic, who accepted the compromise offer presented by the EU, said the talks were "unsuccessful," blaming Kurti for the lack of progress. Kurti said there was "full readiness" from Kosovo to work out an agreement but accused Vucic of "sabotaging" the talks. Kurti also claimed the European Union had sided with Belgrade, saying Brussels "only adopted Serbia's conditionality" of establishing an association of Serb-majority municipalities in Kosovo, which was "unacceptable" to Pristina. Western patience with Kurti appeared to wear thin in May and June after Pristina ignored outside warnings and tried to forcibly install four mayors in mostly Serbian northern municipalities following boycotted by-elections to fill posts vacated by protesting Serbs. The resulting tensions erupted into violence that injured dozens of NATO KFOR peacekeepers and some ethnic Serb protesters. Weeks later, Serbian authorities detained three Kosovar police officers near their mutual border under unclear circumstances and held them for days. Relations between Serbia and Kosovo, where ethnic Albanians are a majority, have been on edge for decades. Kosovo's 1998-99 war of independence from Serbia left more than 10,000 people dead -- most of them ethnic Albanians. More than 1,600 people are still considered missing. With reporting by AP and AFP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/kosovo-serbia-us-disappointed- talks/32594187.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US to Produce 100,000 155mm Artillery Shells Each Month by 2025 Sputnik News 20230915 WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - The United States is on track to produce 100,000 155mm artillery shells each month by 2025, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment William LaPlante stated on Friday. "We're gonna be at 100,000 per month in 2025," LaPlante said during a discussion hosted by the think tank Center for a New American Security. LaPlante noted that the United States was producing 14,000 shells each month six to eight months ago, but is now producing 28,000 shells per month. Next year, the United States should be producing up to 65,000 155mm artillery shells per month, LaPlante said. The United States ramped up production of 155mm artillery shells after stocks began to run low as they were sent to Ukraine from US stockpiles. The United States has provided Ukraine with more than 2 million rounds of artillery munitions, according to the US Defense Department. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US to Sell F-35A Fighter Jets to Czech Republic At Discount Sputnik News 20230915 PRAGUE (Sputnik) - If the Czech Republic buys 24 fifth-generation Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II fighter jets from the United States, their price will be lower than expected, media reported, citing Defense Ministry senior official Gen. Jaroslav Mika. "Today I can say that the price [for fighter jets] will be much lower, we will present this price to the government. We will target [the price reduction] by about 10 percent," Mika said, adding that it is impossible to name the exact price yet as talks are still ongoing on some contract details. The price for the aircraft was initially expected to be 122 billion korunas (about $5.5 billion). The first F-35 fighters for the Czech Republic should be manufactured in 2029, after which training of flight and ground personnel will begin. In 2031, all aircraft should be in the Czech Republic. Along with the fighters, weapons should also be supplied: air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles. The aircraft price includes training of the first crews and ground technical personnel, as well as support during the first years of the life cycle, including spare parts. The F-35's service life is expected to last until 2070. Currently, the Czech Air Force uses 14 Jas 39 Gripen fighters leased from Sweden, as well as own-produced L-159 light multirole attack aircraft. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Welcoming Talks in Saudi Arabia Advancing Yemen's Peace Process US Department of State Press Statement Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson September 15, 2023 The United States welcomes the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia hosting discussions with the Houthi-led delegation in Riyadh. This important step towards peace expands on a series of engagements between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis (Ansar Allah). The United States supports reinvigorating the Yemeni-Yemeni political process under United Nations auspices to bring an end to the conflict. We especially appreciate the important role the Sultanate of Oman played in facilitating the visit, which we hope will foster trust and explore ways to definitively end the war in Yemen while enabling Yemenis to determine their future. The talks in Riyadh follow a visit by senior U.S. officials to Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates last week to consult with our regional partners and the Yemeni parties about a viable path toward peace. We are in the 18th month of calm since the truce began on April 2, 2022. The United States looks forward to achieving progress on a durable ceasefire, inclusive Yemeni-Yemeni talks, and a resolution to the dire humanitarian crisis. We wish Saudi Arabia, Oman, and all the stakeholders success in this important visit and encourage a return to a peace process that reflects the broad range of Yemeni actors and their aspirations. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The UK calls on South Sudan's leaders to deliver the free and fair elections the South Sudanese people deserve: UK statement at the UN Security Council Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the UN Security Council meeting on South Sudan. 15 September 2023 Thank you President. Thank you also to SRSG Haysom, ASG Msuya and Ms Juan for their briefings today. This September marks five years since the South Sudanese parties came together to sign the Peace Agreement. The United Kingdom welcomes the progress achieved since then, and that disputes are now largely resolved through political dialogue, not conflict. But we remain concerned that progress is too slow and too limited. The past five years have been characterised by missed deadlines and multiple extensions. So, we call on South Sudan's leaders to demonstrate the political will to deliver the free and fair elections that the South Sudanese people deserve. President, the United Kingdom welcomes the recent establishment of an Election Security Committee and the presentation of the National Elections Act to Parliament. But as highlighted by SRSG Haysom, in addition to adopting the necessary legislation and reconstituting the relevant electoral bodies, there are fundamental decisions and logistical preparations that require urgent attention. We call on the South Sudanese authorities to create the necessary political and civic space to allow for free and credible elections. President, as the horrifying violence continues across the border in Sudan, over 260,000 people have now been registered arriving into South Sudan. This comes on top of what were already unprecedented levels of humanitarian need in South Sudan. The United Kingdom commends the Government of South Sudan's provision of transportation and the UN system and humanitarian partners in their response to the crisis. We urge the South Sudanese government to create a more enabling environment for humanitarian action, and commit itself to longer-term, more durable solutions that address the increasing humanitarian need. In closing, at this important time in South Sudan's history we urge South Sudan's leadership to deliver on the outstanding tasks to make democratic elections a reality. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Guterres urges G77 and China to champion multilateralism 'rooted in equality' 15 September 2023 - UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed to leaders from the Group of 77 developing countries (G77) and China to "fight for a world that works for all", in his address to their summit in Havana, Cuba, on Friday. "I count on your Group, who have long been champions of multilateralism, to step up, to use your power, and fight," he said. "Champion a system rooted in equality; champion a system ready to reverse the injustice and neglect of centuries; and champion a system that delivers for all humanity and not only for the privileged." World failing developing countries Mr. Guterres noted that although these countries have lifted hundreds of millions out of poverty in recent decades, they are now facing myriad crises, with rising poverty and hunger, rocketing prices, soaring debt, and surging climate disasters. "Global systems and frameworks have let you down," he told leaders gathered in the Cuban capital. "The conclusion is clear: the world is failing developing countries." He said change will require action at the national level to ensure good governance, mobilise resources and prioritise sustainable development. At the same time, this national ownership will have to be respected. Science, technology and innovation The Secretary-General upheld the need for strong, effective multilateral institutions as the international community moves to "a multipolar world". He recalled that many current institutions - particularly the UN Security Council, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank - were established "when many developing countries were shackled by colonial rule and had no say on their own affairs, or on global affairs." He said the summit's theme of science, technology and innovation can promote solidarity, solve common problems, and help towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, today "they frequently inflame inequalities and entrench divisions", he said, pointing to inequities between developed and developing nations in accessing COVID-19 vaccines and digital technology. Mr. Guterres added that finance is another area for urgent global action. Many developing countries are unable to service their debts due to the lingering effects of the pandemic, the global cost-of-living crisis, and extreme climate impacts. Deliver climate financing "The world needs climate justice as it needs financial justice," he said. "Developed countries must deliver the promised $100 billion, double adaptation finance by 2025, and recapitalise the Green Climate Fund. Every person on earth must be protected by an early warning system by 2027 against natural disasters." Mr. Guterres expressed hope that next week's Climate Ambition Summit, taking place at UN Headquarters in New York, "will be able to drive real progress". He also called for countries meeting at the COP28 UN climate conference this November to operationalise the Loss and Damage Fund, which the G77 and China has championed. A fairer future In his speech, the Secretary-General noted that he has proposed measures to make the global financial architecture more representative and responsive to the needs of developing countries. He has also proposed an SDG Stimulus that would provide $500 billion annually in affordable long-term finance for sustainable development and climate action in developing countries. The UN chief has convened the SDG Summit next week and a related Summit of the Future next year. He said they represent "real opportunities to reshape the international system and international institutions to make them reflect today's realities instead of the realities that existed after the Second World War to create a fairer future for developing countries." The UN has also developed a Global Digital Compact aimed at securing a just transition to a digital economy, and that everyone benefits in the new technological era. The Compact is being negotiated by countries ahead of the Summit of the Future, and Mr. Guterres urged the G77 and China to play a leading role. "New rules for new technologies cannot just be written by the wealthy and the privileged," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Danish Defense Forces Train on SM-6 Missile Launcher Together US Navy 15 September 2023 From U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa / U.S. Sixth Fleet Public Affairs BORNHOLM, Denmark -- In a demonstration of ongoing commitment to transatlantic security and defense interoperability, U.S. Naval Forces Europe, in conjunction with the Danish Defense Forces, will be conducting advanced convoy protection drills using the state-of-the-art, modular SM-6 missile launcher beginning the week of Sept. 18 in Bornholm, Denmark. In a demonstration of ongoing commitment to transatlantic security and defense interoperability, U.S. Naval Forces Europe, in conjunction with the Danish Defense Forces, will be conducting advanced convoy protection drills using the state-of-the-art, modular SM-6 missile launcher beginning the week of Sept. 18 in Bornholm, Denmark. The SM-6 missile system stands as a testament to advanced defense technology. It possesses the capability to intercept airborne threats, including the critical interception of ballistic missiles during their terminal phase of flight. The missile's dual-capability design ensures precision engagement of both stationary terrestrial targets and dynamic maritime adversaries. The containerized configuration of the SM-6 launcher augments the U.S. Navy's operational flexibility, facilitating rapid deployment and utilization in diverse theaters of operation, thereby underlining the commitment of the United States to ensure the security interests of itself and its allies. By conducting these operations from Danish soil, the United States reaffirms the strategic importance of Denmark as a key ally in ensuring regional stability. This exercise further solidifies the enduring defense partnership between the U.S. and Denmark, emphasizing our joint dedication to mutual security objectives and cooperative defense efforts. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Navy to Commission Future Littoral Combat Ship Marinette US Navy - Press Release 15 September 2023 The Navy will commission the future USS Marinette (LCS 25) as the newest Freedom-variant littoral combat ship (LCS) during a 10:00 a.m. CST ceremony on Saturday, Sept. 16, in Menominee, Michigan. The Honorable Mike Gallagher, U.S. Representative, Wisconsin's 8th District, will deliver the commissioning ceremony's principal address. Remarks will also be provided by the Honorable Russell Rumbaugh, Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Financial Management and Comptroller; Vice Admiral Darse E. Crandall, Jr., Judge Advocate General of the Navy; the Honorable Jean Stegeman, Mayor of Menominee, Michigan; the Honorable Steve Genisot, Mayor of Marinette, Wisconsin; and Mr. Chauncey McIntosh, Vice President and General Manager, Lockheed Martin Integrated Warfare Systems and Sensors. The ship's sponsor is the Honorable Jennifer Granholm, Secretary, U.S. Department of Energy. LCS 25 is the 13th Freedom-variant LCS, the 25th in the class. She is the first naval warship to bear the name of Marinette, Michigan and the third naval vessel. Marinette (YTB-791) and Marinette County (LST 953) were previously named for the community. Marinette received its name on Sept. 22, 2016. The name recognizes the contributions of her namesake town and the great shipbuilders who bring these ships to life, ensuring they are ready to accomplish mission tasking in support our nation's maritime strategy. The LCS class consists of two variants, the Freedom and the Independence, designed and built by two industry teams. Lockheed Martin leads the Freedom-variant team, the odd-numbered hulls, in Marinette, Wisconsin. Austal USA leads the Independence-variant team in Mobile, Alabama, for LCS 6 and the subsequent even-numbered hulls. Littoral combat ships are fast, optimally-manned, mission-tailored surface combatants that operate in near-shore and open-ocean environments, winning against 21st-century coastal threats. LCS integrate with joint, combined, manned and unmanned teams to support forward-presence, maritime security, sea control and deterrence missions around the globe. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Afghan Taliban Detain 18, Including American, on Charges of Preaching Christianity By Ayaz Gul September 15, 2023 Afghanistan's Taliban have detained 18 staffers, including an American, from a nonprofit group for allegedly preaching Christianity. The Afghan-based International Assistance Mission (IAM) confirmed Friday that Taliban authorities had twice raided its office in central Ghor province this month and taken away the staff. The charity, registered in Switzerland, said one foreigner was among those detained, but did not reveal that person's nationality. "We are unaware of the circumstances that led to these incidents and have not been advised of the reason for the detention of our staff members," an IAM statement said. "The well-being and security of our colleagues are paramount to us, and we are doing everything possible to ensure their safety and secure their swift release," it said, adding that the detainees have been transferred to the Afghan capital of Kabul. Local media quoted provincial government spokesman Abdul Wahid Hamas as saying several women, including an American, were among the detainees. They were taken into custody on charges of "propagating and promoting Christianity" in Afghanistan, he added. The IAM says on its website that the nonprofit group has been working in Afghanistan only to improve lives and build local health, community development and education capacity. "We are a partnership between the people of Afghanistan and international Christian volunteers, and we have been working together since 1966." The Taliban have imposed their harsh interpretation of Islamic law, or Shariah, since seizing power from a U.S.-backed Afghan government in Kabul two years ago. They have barred teenage girls from schools beyond the sixth grade nationwide and ordered most female government employees to stay home. The Taliban have also banned women from working for aid organizations in impoverished Afghanistan. Women are not allowed to visit public parks, gyms or bathhouses, and a close male relative must accompany them for long road trips. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters in New York this week that "the question of the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan is absolutely central to all concerns and will be one of the issues that will be very much in the agenda" of the General Assembly session this month. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Conflict-Driven School Closures Threaten Education of Millions of African Children By Mohammed Yusuf September 15, 2023 UNHCR, the United Nations refugee agency, as well as UNICEF and the Norwegian Refugee Council, said this week that more than 13,200 schools in eight African nations have had to close because of insecurity, affecting the education of at least 2.5 million children. According to the agencies' data on school closures over the last four years, the number of schools closed in the Sahel region has grown more than fivefold, from 1,700 to 9,000, with Burkina Faso accounting for two-third of the closures. Thousands of schools in Africa have been closed because of insecurity and conflict, depriving at least 2.5 million children of education in the past four years. According to a statement from UNHCR, UNICEF, and the Norwegian Refugee Council, 13,200 schools have been closed in eight countries, jeopardizing the future of millions of children. Barnaby Rooke, UNICEF West and Central Africa education in emergency and resilience specialist, says the lack of learning institutions poses great risk to the young boys and girls on the continent. "It's a situation which is of grave concern, of course, because a school closed means that children lose out on learning," said Rooke. "It also means that children are exposed to a great number of risks, including early pregnancy and early marriage for girls, potentially recruitment into nonstate armed groups for adolescent boys." School attacks have become frequent, with 147 incidents reported in the region between January and August, according to the U.S.-based Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project, which tracks political violence and protest around the world. Insecurity has driven families and teachers to flee, disrupting learning for the affected children and communities facing overcrowding and an educator shortage. According to the aid agencies, the situation is particularly dire in the Central Sahel region, where school closures have surged from 1,700 to 9,000, with Burkina Faso accounting for 6,000 of these closures. Burkina Faso is among six African nations that have witnessed coups in the past three years and face threats from terrorist organizations. Leandro Salazar, regional education adviser in central and west Africa for the Norwegian Refugee Council, says the school attacks reverse progress in keeping children in classes. "Attacks on schools have exacerbated existing structural challenges to education for all, more specifically poverty, poor school infrastructure, low access, insufficient numbers of well-trained teachers, and in some cases, it has reversed decades of well-earned progress for education systems," said Salazar. "These disturbances may also lead to diminished quality of education and learning and students falling behind. Lower rates of transition to higher education levels, overcrowding and reductions in teacher recruitment. The longer children are out of school, the less likely they are to return." According to UNESCO, 20% of children aged 6 to 11 are out of school and 60% of those aged 15 to 17 are not in school in sub-Saharan Africa. The Africa Center for Strategic Studies says 3.2 million people were displaced this year, bringing the total number of Africans displaced by conflict to 40 million, with 31 million internally displaced. Health experts say conflict and violence make children nervous, lonely, or emotionally distraught and aggressive. With the help of locals and authorities, Rooke says his organization is creating temporary learning facilities to continue children's education and look after their well-being. "There is a rapid-response mechanism which has been created to tend to the needs of these children, which involves staff traveling to the areas impacted by school closure, setting up a temporary learning space in the briefest possible time, and then following up with a greater level of qualitative services including not only learning but mental health and psychosocial support for children," said Rooke. Salazar says there is a need for educational support for children wherever they are and to train more teachers to help students. "It is urgent to increase access to education in areas of displacement, and especially in remote and blockaded areas, more specifically in Burkina Faso and Mali," said Salazar. "There is a need to accelerate the redeployment of teachers where they are most needed, to open new classrooms whenever possible, whenever and wherever possible, and make sure that schools continue to work at their full capacity." The three agencies are urging governments, rebel groups and militant organizations to uphold the Safe Schools Declaration, which commits warring parties to protect educational institutions and ensure the continuity of learning, even during conflicts, while reducing the military use of schools. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Regional State President Survives Suicide Bombing in Central Somalia By Mohamed Olad Hassan September 15, 2023 The president of Somalia's Galmudug regional state was unhurt but two federal lawmakers were wounded when a bomb-laden car exploded in a central Somali village Friday, according to witnesses and officials. The al-Shabab militant group said it was behind the suicide attack that appears to have targeted regional president Ahmed Abdi Kariye, also known as Qorqor. The officials were in Las-Ga'amey, a small village in the Mudug region, when the blast struck, the commander of Galmudug regional troops, General Mohamed Nur Ali Gadar, told VOA. "Our valiant soldiers foiled the attack by opening fire on the suicide car bomb as it speedily tried to enter the center of the village. The bomber was shot dead and his car bomb exploded," the commander said. Local officials said the car blew up about 300 meters from the guest house where the president and his traveling party were staying. Abshir Abdi Shikhow, the Galmudug information minister, said three government soldiers were killed and several others, including the lawmakers, were wounded. Lawmaker Abdisalam Haji Dhabancad said he and Senator Abdi Hassan Qaybdid sustained minor injuries when pieces of wall fell on them after the blast. The two federal lawmakers wounded in the attack were visiting the village to encourage government troops. Somali government forces and local militia recently liberated Las-Ga'amey from al-Shabab control. In a recorded video, Galmudug President Kariye said that the al-Shabab attack had failed. "The cowardly terrorist attack had failed. Thank God. We are safe and sound. Such attacks show how they are desperate in the war and in coming days you would hear significant government [progress] in the war against al-Shabab," said Kariye. Earlier this week, a member of the Galmudug regional parliament and a local councilor were killed in a landmine explosion in El-Garas town in the Galgadud region. In August 2022, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud launched what he called a "total war" against al-Shabab. In the first phase, Somali forces, backed by local militia, took control of al-Shabab-ruled areas in the central regions of Hiiran and Middle Shabelle. Last week, President Mohamud said the ongoing military offensive against al-Shabab aims to eliminate the al-Qaida-linked group within a few months. Somalia's federal government has been engaged in a protracted war against al-Shabab for more than a decade, with support from international partners and the African Union military. Despite significant progress, the extremist group maintains control of large rural areas of the country and continues to carry out attacks in the capital, Mogadishu, and other areas. Abdiwahid Isaq contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ethiopian Migrants Stuck in Yemen as Repatriation Pauses By Maya Misikir September 15, 2023 Hundreds of Ethiopian migrants are stranded in conflict-torn Yemen, unable to work for better wages and without the means to get back to their home. Tens of thousands of Ethiopians head to Arabian Peninsula countries each year, seeking better work opportunities. Often, they undertake a perilous journey, and end up being trafficked and stranded along the way. Roman, who first went to Saudi Arabia at 18, said that despite getting gainful employment, working conditions were extremely challenging. "There were two of us working together and then my co-worker left," said Roman. "When she left, I was overwhelmed with a lot of work." Roman said there was no rest, and she was not able to eat. "I couldn't even wash my clothes, my feet," she said. After that, she said, "I escaped from the house." IOM halts returns The International Organization for Migration (IOM), which oversees voluntary humanitarian returns from Yemen, recently paused the return of migrants from Ethiopia's Tigray and Amhara regions due to insecurity in the two regions. The IOM cannot stop the migrants from returning to Ethiopia but is currently not facilitating their return to Tigray and Amhara regions. Ethiopian migrants protested that decision in front of an IOM facility in the Yemeni city of Aden last week, which led to fighting and the deaths of an unconfirmed number of people. Tewodrose Tirfe, chairman of the Amhara Association of America, an Amhara rights advocacy group, said the decision is unilaterally the Ethiopian government's and is a discriminatory policy, which has singled out migrants who have Amhara and Tigrayan ethnic roots. "These Ethiopians can be repatriated back to their country and be ... provided services, housing and other services that they need in Addis Ababa and other parts of the country," said Teodrose. "Just because they are Amharas they do not have to return, they do not have to go to the Amhara region and Amharas live all across all of Ethiopia." The two-year war in Ethiopia's Tigray region came to an end in November of last year, after a peace deal was signed between Tigrayan forces and the federal government. This year, another conflict started in the country's second most-populous region, the Amhara region, home to a regional militia known as Fano. In early August, the Ethiopian government declared a state of emergency in the Amhara region, following open fighting. Poor economy drives migrants Messay Mulugeta, an associate professor at Addis Ababa University, said that there needs to be an economic solution to dissuade migrants from taking unsafe journeys. "Even though there are other reasons people leave, most of it comes from economic issues," he said. "If there were job opportunities, and if there was a larger economy that could accommodate everyone, then migration might still continue, but it would be possible to be done in a professionally safe way." A recent report from Human Rights Watch said Saudi border guards killed hundreds of Ethiopian migrants and asylum-seekers who tried to cross the Yemen-Saudi border between March 2022 and June of this year. The rights group said the shootings could amount to crimes against humanity. The Ethiopian government has announced an investigation into the alleged killings. The Saudi government has denied the accusations. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Imprisonment of Top Rights Activists in Bangladesh Triggers Global Outrage By Shaikh Azizur Rahman September 15, 2023 The sentencing of two prominent human rights activists to prison terms in Bangladesh has triggered shock and outrage among global rights campaigners who called their court trial "politically motivated" and said that the two activists were paying the price for exposing serious human rights violations by government forces. A court in Dhaka on Thursday sentenced Adilur Rahman Khan, 63, and Nasiruddin Elan, 57 secretary and director of Bangladesh's leading human rights organization Odhikar to two years each in prison in a criminal case related to a fact-finding report they prepared on the extrajudicial killing of Islamic group protesters in Dhaka in 2013. Reacting to Thursday's ruling, Angelita Baeyens, vice president of international advocacy and litigation at Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights, said that it was a "sad day for the people of Bangladesh, whose rights Adil and Elan have fought so hard and so courageously to protect." "They are two of the most widely respected human rights advocates worldwide. They are being punished for speaking truth to power," Baeyens told VOA. The Odhikar fact-finding report documented that security forces killed at least 61 people, including children, during an action to disperse a protest on May 6, 2013. The government put the death toll at 13. Charging that Odhikar compiled a "distorted" fact-finding report on the 2013 incident, the prosecution filed a criminal case against Khan and Elan the same year. After the publication of the report, Khan and Elan were arrested in August 2013, before being released on bail some weeks later. Both were out on bail for 10 years until being sent to prison Thursday, following the verdict in the case. After the pronouncement of Thursday's verdict, public prosecutor Nazrul Islam Shamim said that the Odhikar report carried "false information." "We are not satisfied with the judgment. We will move the High Court seeking an increase in the jail terms," Shamim said. When the two activists were being taken from the court to Dhaka Central Jail, Khan told reporters that they had been denied justice. "We will appeal the verdict in the higher court," said Khan, who is himself a Supreme Court lawyer. 'Prosecution failed to prove the charges' The lawyer for the two activists, Ruhul Amin Bhuiyan, told VOA that if the trial had been conducted through a fair process, Khan and Elan would have been acquitted. "The prosecution completely failed to prove the charges against the two accused. The accused did not commit any crime at all," Bhuiyan said. "I believe that they will be acquitted after we move to the higher court." Odhikar, one of Bangladesh's top human rights organizations, is globally known for its work in Bangladesh and cooperates closely with United Nations bodies and other international rights groups. Its reports are often cited in the U.S. State Department country reports. Odhikar has reported on thousands of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, cases of torture in custody and other human rights violations committed by the security forces while Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been in office. Last year, the government accused Odhikar of spreading "propaganda against the state by publishing misleading information" on its website and canceled the group's operating license. Thursday's verdict comes at a crucial time, ahead of the country's general election in January. The opposition political parties and dissidents are reportedly facing a crackdown in Bangladesh now, and several Western nations, including the U.S., have expressed concerns over the political tensions in the country. Ruling triggers global condemnations The ruling against Khan and Elan has triggered a wave of condemnation from rights activists around the world. In a joint statement, 39 international rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch, Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights and Amnesty International, urged the Bangladesh authorities to "quash their convictions, and end all reprisals" and immediately release Khan and Elan. "We stand with Khan and Elan and urge the authorities to release them immediately and unconditionally, as they have been detained solely for their human rights work. The authorities should reverse their convictions," the statement said. In a Thursday statement, the International Federation for Human Rights said that the conviction of Khan and Elan was "based on politically motivated charges" and aimed "to intimidate human rights activists in the country." Human rights campaigner Saad Hammadi, a Global Governance Fellow at the Canada-based Balsillie School of International Affairs, said that the imprisonment of Khan and Elan "not only sends a chilling message to others about the harsh consequences they could face for speaking out, but also shows a lack of the government's appetite to protect the rights of critical voices." "Successive governments in Bangladesh have adopted repressive measures to protect themselves and their political interests. The Bangladeshi authorities can and should change this course for the benefit of human rights in the country," Hammadi told VOA. Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman, former liaison officer of Hong Kong-based rights group Asian Legal Resource Centre, said that "legally speaking, there are many things extremely wrong with the trumped-up case" against Khan and Elan. "The Sheikh Hasina regime has been using the criminal justice system as a political tool to imprison dissidents and prominent HRDs [human rights defenders] for giving voice to the voiceless people of the country," Ashrafuzzaman told VOA. "The judges and prosecutors who have been engaged in serving the regime's agenda of imprisoning the HRDs in a politically motivated case must be ashamed of their actions." RFK Human Rights' Baeyens said that the very open targeting of the "brave rights defenders" by the highest levels of the government, is a "big blow for everyone who believes in justice, democracy, and fundamental freedoms." "The world cannot keep silent as Hasina's regime silences critical voices and erodes the little that remains of democracy in Bangladesh," Baeyens said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Readout of National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's Meeting with President Irfaan Ali of Guyana September 15, 2023 National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met today with President Irfaan Ali of Guyana to build on previous meetings between U.S. and Guyanese officials to deepen our bilateral relationship. Sullivan was joined by National Security Advisor for the Vice President Philip Gordon. During the meeting, National Security Advisor Sullivan noted the United States' interest in partnering with Guyana at the United Nations Security Council during their upcoming term on shared priorities, including energy security, climate change, and the shared regional impacts of Venezuela's migration and security crisis. They also discussed joint efforts to deliver sustainable and inclusive growth for our people. During the meeting, National Security Advisor Sullivan also thanked President Ali for his support for a Multinational Security Support mission to Haiti and discussed regional support for the people of Haiti. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Statement from National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan Welcoming The First Official Senior Houthi Delegation to Saudi Arabia September 15, 2023 We welcome the arrival of a senior Houthi delegation to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This is the first official visit by Houthi representatives to Riyadh since the war in Yemen began nearly a decade ago. It comes after nearly 18 straight months of calm that began after a UN-mediated truce first went into effect on April 2, 2022. President Biden, from his first weeks in office, has made de-escalating and ending the war in Yemen one of his top foreign policy priorities. The United States has been proud to lend our diplomatic support to these peace efforts in coordination with the Yemeni parties and the United Nations. We commend the leadership of Saudi Arabia for this current initiative and thank the leadership of Oman for its important role. We call on all parties to this terrible conflict to further solidify and expand on the benefits of the truce that has brought a measure of peace to the Yemeni people, and ultimately bring this war to an end. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Conclusion of Exercise BRIGHT STAR 2023 in Egypt U.S. Central Command USCENTCOM Sept 16, 2023 Release Number 20230916-01 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE TAMPA, Fla. -- On Sept. 14, U.S. Central Command and the Egyptian Armed Forces, along with troops from 32 other nations, concluded Exercise BRIGHT STAR 2023, at Mohamed Naguib Military Base, Egypt. Approximately 8,400 troops with over 140 aircraft, 17 naval vessels, and 250 vehicles from across the globe gathered at five training locations in Egypt to participate in the largest and oldest middle eastern exercise. Established initially to build the strategic security relationship between Egypt and the United States, it has expanded to the current scope and plays a leading role in regional security. BRIGHT STAR 2023 focused on promoting coalition interoperability throughout the full range of military operations through multinational and multi-domain training exercises such as: Combined Arms Maneuver Live Fire Exercise Maritime Security Integrated Air and Missile Defense Amphibious Assault Operations Airborne Assault Operations Counterterrorism Joint Tactical Air Control Cyber Security Operations Planning/Executing Joint Military Operations on Tactical and Operational Levels Common Air Operations Integrated Maneuver Units Border Control "Since 1980, BRIGHT STAR has been an example of our enduring commitment to regional security and increasing interoperability with our partners," said Gen. Michael "Erik" Kurilla, commander of U.S. Central Command. "The quality and variety of training opportunities in a multinational venue with 34 nations demonstrates the value of BRIGHT STAR. Bringing this many nations, people, equipment, and experiences is also a testament to Egypt's leadership in the region. The culmination Combined Army Live Fire Exercise is an example of interoperability with troops and equipment, including 70 armored vehicles, fixed and rotary wing attack aviation, artillery, engineers and air defense from multiple militaries integrated into one formation. Given the increasing complexity of the threats in the region, it is more important now than ever that we are fully integrated with our partners and allies." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Gram's speech at The NATO Military Committee Conference 2023 in Oslo Government of Norway Speech/statement | Date: 16/09/2023 By Minister of Defence Bjrn Arild Gram Here you can read the speeches of Defence Minister Bjrn Arild Gram and Chief of Defence Eirik Kristoffersen. Minister of Defence Gram's speech: Dear Chair, dear friends - dear NATO family. Welcome to Norway, to Oslo and welcome to Holmenkollen. The city of Oslo has a rich history, reaching more than 1000 years back - but it has not always been as peaceful as today. Like many other European Capitals, Oslo has seen its fare share of war and atrocities. The city was burned to the ground in the 16th century by its own citizens and the attacking Swedes during the "Nordic 7-year war". We have stopped burning our cities when swedes are visiting these days. And now, they are even in the process of becoming our allies in NATO. Which we are very pleased with by the way... I would like to focus on four topics during these opening remarks. Firstly; NATO's key role in the High North. Secondly; burden sharing and the need to remain committed to the transformation of NATO. Then Ukraine Finally, the importance of securing full accession of Sweden. NATO in the North NATO is a cornerstone in Norway's security policy today, as it has been since its foundation - and Norway takes active part in the shaping of NATO's strategy throughout the alliance. The relevance of the High North is steadily increasing as a stage for global competition. A large portion of Russia's nuclear capabilities are located at the Kola Peninsula, including its carriers. The importance of this capability has grown proportionally with the decline of Russia's conventional capabilities. A large portion of Russia's nuclear capabilities are located at the Kola Peninsula, including its carriers. The importance of this capability has grown proportionally with the decline of Russia's conventional capabilities. The vast amount of natural resources in the High North is important to us all. Not only Norway and Russia. We share a common responsibility to exploit and preserve these resources both in our time, but also for future generations. In order to achieve that the baseline is security and predictability. NATO is - and will remain the most important security provider for peace and stability in the area. Our deterrence posture in the region will grow stronger as we are welcoming Finland and Sweden into the Alliance. The Allies in the region have a particular responsibility for developing NATO's deterrence in the High North. Both in terms of troop contributions and posture calibrations. The Allies in the region have a particular responsibility for developing NATO's deterrence in the High North. Both in terms of troop contributions and posture calibrations. The deterrence posture relies upon not only sea lines of communications, but strategic lines of communications. This includes infrastructure in space and on the seabed floor. Such an effort is a huge undertaking for the Alliance in the time ahead of us and should not be taken lightly. This includes infrastructure in space and on the seabed floor. Such an effort is a huge undertaking for the Alliance in the time ahead of us and should not be taken lightly. I am pleased to see that NATO is on the front foot in this regard. A most welcoming step was the positive signals on the initiative made by Norway and Germany regarding protection of undersea infrastructure. A most welcoming step was the positive signals on the initiative made by Norway and Germany regarding protection of undersea infrastructure. The development of the regional plans is progressing well and I would like to express a big thank you to SACEUR for your leadership in this matter. With all of the Nordic countries together in NATO, we can better reap the benefits of our well-established cooperation by affiliating all the nations to Joint Force Command Norfolk. This recommendation is based on sound military advice from all the Nordic CHODs. Between the Nordic nations, there is a close dialogue on how the defence cooperation should develop to bolster not only the defence of this region, but also benefit the security of the alliance as a whole. Joint Force Command Norfolk is on a path of becoming the HQ capable of taking charge in the north-western direction. We need to continue to bolster our effort to set the conditions for this to happen sooner, rather than later. Norway will do its part to ensure JFC Norfolk meet the requirements to command its regional plan. And SACEUR has to decide when the time has come. Then burden sharing Proper resourcing is essential for our collective defence modernisation effort. Norway have committed almost our entire force structure at the Force sourcing conference. We also support broadening the use of common funding to meet new requirements. The Norwegian Government recognizes the importance of burden sharing in the alliance. That is why we are committed to reach and sustain a minimum of 2% of our gross domestic product (GDP) on defence spending. We will present a detailed plan to NATO after our new long-term defence plan has been approved by Parliament in the Spring of next year. Ukraine We, as allies, stand firm together in the support of Ukraine against Russian aggression. The Russian invasion of Ukraine must fail. This is important for Ukrainian and European security. The Russian invasion of Ukraine must fail. This is important for Ukrainian and European security. Norway's support to Ukraine's defence remains steadfast, and we will continue to provide military and civilian support. There is political agreement in Norway on a multi-year support programme for Ukraine, at approximately 7,5 billion Euro, distributed over five years. This will be done through the Nansen support programme for Ukraine. This will be done through the Nansen support programme for Ukraine. NATO must continue to stand together with Ukraine, opposing Russian aggression in whatever form it will take. Hence Norway has decided on a long term commitment to help fund NATO's CAP program as well. Finally, Sweden: We need to secure the full accession of Sweden. It is time. We have waited long enough. This is crucial to Swedish security, to Nordic security and it will enhance the security of NATO as a whole. With the Nordic countries united in NATO, the deterrence posture of the alliance will benefit the whole of Europe. Norway is ready to provide support to our Nordic neighbours every way we can to make sure the transition to the alliance goes as streamlined as it should. Together with our Nordic colleagues, we are ready to prepare a coherent defence planning for the whole Northern Europe, firmly based on the NATO-framework. I wish you all the best in your fruitful discussions during the conference today. Once again, welcome to Norway, welcome to Oslo, and thank you for your attention. Chair of the NATO Military Committee, Admiral Rob Bauer's opening remarks: Your Excellency, Chiefs of Defence, Strategic Commanders, Distinguished guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, Mesdames et Messieurs, Nous sommes honores de reunir notre conference annuelle ici a Oslo, a l'invitation des autorites norvegiennes. We are honoured to convene our annual conference here in Oslo, at the invitation of the Norwegian authorities. We have for the first time at our table the new Chief of Defence from Trkiye: General Metin Gurak. Metin, welcome to our club and we look forward to hearing your contributions and advice. Then, on behalf of the whole Military Committee and Invitee Sweden, I want to thank our hosts for the incredibly warm welcome and the generous hospitality, the "gjestfrihet", they have shown us since our arrival. We extend our gratitude to the Minister of Defence, Mr Bjrn Arnild Gram [Byoern ArniL Gram]: we are honoured to have you in our midst today. And to our brother in arms, the Norwegian Chief of Defence General Kristoffersen. Dear Eirik, Thank you for all you and your staff have done to host 1000 years of military experience here at this table. The Norwegian Armed Forces have always been a keen contributor to NATO's missions and operations. And I know that you yourself are a staunch supporter and initiator of cooperation between Allies. To give an example: in the Military Advice that you published last May, the acronym "NATO" is listed 100 times in a 72-page document. I think that gives a fair impression of how closely "NATO" and "national" are intertwined. And that brings me to the theme of this year's Military Committee Conference: never before have NATO and national defence plans been so closely interlinked. The plans that Allies agreed in Vilnius will impact the development of all our armed forces for decades to come. We are taking bold steps to further strengthen our deterrence and defence posture. The centrepiece of all this are the DDA family of plans. This includes the Regional Plans, which are geographically specific plans that describe how we will defend key and relevant places within our Alliance. The Regional Plans are underpinned by objective, threat-based Force Structure Requirements, which detail precisely which assets or capabilities are required in a crisis or conflict scenario. Needless to say, these plans and requirements are living documents. They will be updated as the threats that face us develop. Meanwhile, we are decidedly turning them into action. Today, we will discuss executability. And that includes: More troops at higher readiness; Capability building and development; Adaptation of NATO's command and control structures; More enablement, which includes logistics, host nation support, maintenance, military mobility, and replenishment and prepositioning of stocks; And crucially: it involves more collective defence exercise and training. Because NATO and national defence plans are now so closely interlinked, it is crucial that we not only firmly move forward... but that we also closely consult each other every step of the way. I am immensely proud of how the NATO Military Authorities have steered the process leading up to these plans. I say that specifically in the presence of our Supreme Allied Commander Europe, General Chris Cavoli and our Supreme Allied Commander Transformation, General Philippe Lavigne. Chris, Philippe: your inspiring, bold leadership plays a key part in making sure that this Alliance is ready to expect the unexpected: today, tomorrow and at any time in the future. On behalf of the Chiefs of Defence, thank you for all that you and your commands do. This gathering comes at a time when the Rules Based International Order is under severe pressure. Around the world, and also in our own countries, people are growing increasingly divided and threat levels are going up. Therefore, it is crucial that we, the NATO military leadership, continue to make sure that the men and women in uniform who serve our Alliance have what they need to protect all we hold dear. Together, we are protecting much more than physical safety. We are protecting freedom, democracy and the sovereign rights of nations and people to determine their own destiny. Just like the Norwegian Armed Forces motto, we fight for everything we have and for everything we are: for alt vi har, og alt vi er. We do that by coming together, finding compromises and moving forward as one. By putting the "we" before the "me". But let me stress here that that does not mean the "me" is not important anymore. Collective defence starts at home. Having a strong national defence is a key part of contributing to international defence. In our "all for one, one for all" organisation, it is important that we work on the ONE as well as the ALL. Every day we are in awe of our Ukrainian brothers and sisters in uniform. They are fighting a war on an unprecedented scale, in uncharted doctrinal territory. History books will show: Ukraine has transformed modern warfare. And they are moving forward every day. Every success is one step closer to victory. Meanwhile, the Russian Armed Forces keep losing more and more ground and the whole of Russia is suffering under the impact of economic sanctions and diplomatic isolation. Russia is forced to cooperate with unreliable actors, growing ever more dependent. And yet: the Russian leadership still believes that it will outlast the collective resolve of the Ukrainian people and all those who stand with them. Russia has been preparing for confrontation for years. And they are willing for their population and their economy to endure unending hardships in order to regenerate military capabilities. In addition, their misinformation machine is making widespread attempts at sowing discontent and divide within western democracies. President Putin wanted NATO divided and made every attempt to do so. And yet here we stand: more united than ever. United in our belief that the rule of law applies to all. That conflicts should be solved in the court room, not on the battlefield. And that self-determination is an unalienable right. From the first day of Russia's war against Ukraine until the very last, and also during the many many years after that, we will support Ukraine in its rightful choice for freedom and democracy. And we will stand together to protect all we hold dear. Ladies and Gentlemen, Once Sweden joins, we will have a band of 3.5 million brothers and sisters in uniform who protect our great Alliance. They see together what they cannot see alone. They do together what they cannot do alone. The military profession brings immense opportunities. But it also requires immense sacrifices. On behalf of the Military Committee, I want to express our deep gratitude and respect for the men and women who serve our Alliance. We thank them for their courage, their professionalism, and their dedication. I would like to now take a moment to remember the men and women who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. And all those who are dealing with the physical and mental effects of their time in service. We honour their sacrifice. We respect their courage. Please stand. [Moment of Silence] Chief of Defence Eirik Kristoffersen's opening remarks: Thank you, Admiral Bauer, for your wise words. It is my sincere pleasure to host the NATO Military Committee Conference here in Oslo, Norway. We started yesterday with a opening ceremony, and today we start the Military Committee Conference. I am very pleased to have both Finland and Sweden here. Finland as our newest member and Sweden which will soon become one. The integration of all Nordic countries in the NATO alliance is good for Norway and our neighboring countries and a strengthening for NATO. In the years to come we will develop new ways to defend and deter NATOs northern flank together. We meet here during times of war. Our Ukrainian friends are fighting for their homeland, for their freedom, for democracy, and for peace. Values we all share and hold very high. There is a saying in Norwegian: Never again 9th of April. Norway was attacked by Hitlers forces on the 9th of April in 1940. The attack took us by surprise, and we promised ourselves that we should learn. Two important lessons were drawn: Firstly, one should never take peace, freedom and democracy for granted. Secondly, one needs friends and allies to be able fight back, and secure peace. Allies are so much more than friends, something which is evident in NATO. NATO is the cornerstone of Norwegian security policy and the foundation upon which we have built our Armed Forces. We are very grateful to be part of the world's strongest military alliance. NATO is more united than ever. Our neighbor Russia and President Putin wanted to drive a wedge into our Alliance. By attacking Ukraine and the rule based international world order, he accomplished the opposite. Ukraine's resistance and the will and capacity to fight back is has impressed us all. In Norway we have always placed much emphasis on the importance of the people's will to defend itself. That is exactly what we see the Ukrainian people do right now. And we stand by our Ukrainian friends. During the last two years, the Military Committee has played a very important role in NATOs military response to Russias attack on Ukraine. I would like to sincerely thank Admiral Rob Bauer, the Chair of NATOs Military Committee. Rob, your leadership have brought together the Chiefs of Defense's in finding the best military options and responses that our political leaders have demanded of us. Thank you and welcome. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Burkina Faso expels French defense attache for 'subversive activities' Iran Press TV Saturday, 16 September 2023 12:55 AM Burkina Faso has notified France of the expulsion of the embassy's military attache for "subversive activities," weeks after Niger ordered the European country's ambassador to leave. In a letter seen by AFP on Friday, Burkina Faso's foreign ministry warned that attache Emmanuel Pasquier and his team had two weeks to leave the Sahel nation where military leaders last year twice toppled pro-France governments. The ministry letter added that the French military mission in Ouagadougou would be closed. France pulled out troops from its former colony in the face of mounting hostility after Captain Ibrahim Traore seized power in September 2022. France's foreign ministry rejected the accusation. "The accusation of subversive activities is obviously fanciful," a foreign ministry spokesperson told AFP in Paris. After the September coup, France recalled its ambassador from Ouagadougou and has not replaced the envoy. Burkina Faso is also unlikely to let the envoy come back. Burkina Faso's military leaders have suspended the French TV outlets LCI and France24 as well as Radio France Internationale (RFI) and expelled the correspondents of the French newspapers Liberation and Le Monde over their "subversive activities." Burkina Faso's military chief Traore last week gave an interview saying Burkina was not "the enemy of the French people" but of the policies of its government. "We have to accept seeing each other as equals... and accept an overhaul of our entire cooperation," he said on state television. Anger within the armed forces led to a coup on January 24, 2022, toppling pro-France president Roch Marc Christian Kabore. On September 30, Kabore's nemesis, Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, was himself overthrown by the 34-year-old Traore, who has promised a return to democracy with presidential elections by July 2024. Traore in July met Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Russia-Africa summit in Saint Petersburg and followed up with talks in August with a Russian delegation on development and military cooperation. Foreign Minister Olivia Rouamba on Monday said Burkina needed to "strengthen bilateral cooperation" with Iran and President Ebrahim Raeisi. Meanwhile, Niger's military leaders gave the French ambassador a 48-hour ultimatum to leave the country in August, but French President Emmanuel Macron refused to comply or to recognize the legitimacy of the military rulers. At the end of August, the military rulers revoked the diplomatic immunity of the ambassador and ordered the police to expel him from the country. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taliban detain 18 NGO staff, including American woman Iran Press TV Saturday, 16 September 2023 5:28 PM Afghanistan's Taliban authorities have detained 18 staff members of a non-governmental organization (NGO), including an American woman, on charges of being involved in Christian missionary work in the country. "Documents and audios were obtained that showed they were inviting people to join Christianity," a government spokesman for the province Abdul Wahid Hamas Ghori said, referring to the staffers of the Swiss-registered NGO. He said security and intelligence forces had been observing the group for some time. The International Assistance Mission (IAM) confirmed its staffers were picked up on two separate occasions this month from the NGO's office in Ghor province, central Afghanistan, and taken to the capital Kabul. It said in a statement earlier that 18 people, including a "foreigner," were being held and that it had no information about the nature of the allegations. "Should any charges be lodged against our organization or any individual staff member, we will independently review any evidence presented," the IAM said. The NGO said that the organization does not provide aid according to political or religious beliefs. "We value and respect local customs and cultures," it said. The IAM has operated in Afghanistan since 1966, when it specialized in eye care, later branching out into other areas of health and education. They lost ten medics, including eight foreigners, in an attack in remote northern Afghanistan back in 2010. Taliban leaders claimed responsibility at the time, saying the medics were Christian missionaries and accused them of working as military spies. The Taliban regained control of Afghanistan two years ago, following the US and NATO forces' hasty withdrawal from the country after more than two decades of war. Since they assumed power, the rulers have imposed sweeping restrictions on the population, including barring women from working for NGOs and the United Nations. Girls more than 12 years of age have been barred from attending school and a nationwide ban has been implemented on women from attending universities. United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk has recently warned about a systematic assault on the freedom of Afghanistan's people. He told the Human Rights Council in Geneva on Tuesday, "human rights in Afghanistan are in a state of collapse, acutely affecting the lives of millions of women, men, girls, and boys." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger sign agreement to defend each other if attacked Iran Press TV Saturday, 16 September 2023 10:36 PM Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have signed a trilateral defense agreement binding the three Sahel countries to assist one another in the event of a military attack on any one of them. The agreement, known as the Liptako-Gourma Charter, was inked by the three states' military leaders on Saturday, and according to Mali's junta leader, Assimi Goita, it establishes the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). "I have today signed with the heads of state of Burkina Faso and Niger the Liptako-Gourma charter establishing the Alliance of Sahel States, with the aim of establishing a collective defense and mutual assistance framework," Goita said on X social media platform, formerly known as Twitter. "This alliance will be a combination of military and economic efforts between the three countries," Mali's Defense Minister Abdoulaye Diop told journalists. "Any attack on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of one or more contracting parties shall be considered as an aggression against the other parties and shall give rise to a duty of assistance...including the use of armed force to restore and ensure security," the agreement stated. All the three former French colonies have been run by juntas since 2020 and the agreement came amid simmering anti-French sentiments across the three nations. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), West Africa's main regional bloc, has threatened to intervene militarily in Niger to overturn the country's military government, which came to power after a coup in July. Mali and Burkina Faso have said they consider any attack on Niger as "declaration of war" against them as well. Anti-terror fight The Saturday pact also binds the signatories to pool their resources together towards fighting terrorism in the three countries.. Mali began to experience emergence of Takfiri terrorism in 2012, which spread to Niger and Burkina Faso three years later. "Our priority is the fight against terrorism in the three countries," Mali's defense minister said. Mali has also witnessed resumption of hostilities by predominantly Tuareg armed groups over the past week, threatening a 2015 peace agreement. Thousands of Nigeriens hold new anti-France protest in Niamey Also on Saturday, thousands of people demonstrated in front of a military base housing French soldiers in Niger's capital city of Niamey to demand their departure from the West African country. "Enough is enough.... All of them have to go back to their so-called country, France," one of the protesters told AFP. The protesters waved flags of Niger while demonstrating to demand the departure of French soldiers. "We don't want France today, we don't want France tomorrow. They just have to leave our country alone," another demonstrator was quoted by AFP as saying. The Saturday protest was held in front of an air base, which shelters part of the French contingent in Niger, near the airport in Niamey. Anti-France demonstrations began two weeks ago when tens of thousands of protesters gathered outside the base to demand French troops and ambassador leave the country. Hundreds have remained ever since, vowing to continue the protest action until their demands are met. The new demonstration came after France's President Emmanuel Macron accused Niger's new leaders of taking French ambassador hostage after he refused to comply with their order to leave. Niger's military leaders gave French ambassador Sylvain Itte 48 hours to leave the country after they seized power in a coup on July 26, overthrowing President Mohamed Bazoum, who had the support of France. Macron, however, refused to comply or to recognize the legitimacy of the military rulers. At the end of August, the military government revoked the diplomatic immunity of the French ambassador and ordered the police to expel him from the country. Niger's new leaders have also cancelled military cooperation agreements with France and asked the country's troops to leave quickly. France was a colonial power in West Africa until 1960. It keeps about 1,500 soldiers in Niger and has so far refused to redeploy its forces. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taliban Said To Suspect Detained NGO Workers Of Promoting Christianity By RFE/RL's Radio Azadi September 16, 2023 Local officials in the central Afghan province where the Taliban detained 18 staffers for a long-serving humanitarian NGO earlier this month suggest the group was suspected of spreading Christianity, RFE/RL's Radio Azadi has learned. Taliban intelligence and other officials in Kabul have remained silent over the detentions. The International Assistance Mission (IAM) humanitarian group in Afghanistan on September 15 announced the detention of 18 team members from its offices in Ghor Province between September 3 and 13. It said they all appear to have been transferred to the Afghan capital, Kabul. IAM and other information suggested the detainees comprise 17 Afghan nationals and a female American surgeon. Early on September 16, IAM said it still "has not been informed of the reasons for the detention of our staff." But Taliban officials in Ghor have accused them of spreading Christianity, which can be punished under strict interpretations of Islamic law in Afghanistan. In a written message to Radio Azadi, Abdul Hai Zaim, the head of information and culture for the Taliban-led government for Ghor Province, confirmed the arrest of the IAM employees and claimed -- without providing evidence -- that they had been promoting Christianity. The fundamentalist Taliban, who retook control of Afghanistan as U.S.-led international forces withdrew in 2021, have imposed a particularly harsh form of Shari'a law on the country when they have been in power at various points in the past four decades. The internationally unrecognized Taliban-led government in Afghanistan has been accused by UN and other international officials of grave human rights offenses against non-Muslims, women, and minorities. IAM said on September 16 that it had inquired with the Taliban-led Afghan government's Finance Ministry and was "working together with the UN and ACBAR, the coordinating body for NGOs in Afghanistan," to seek the release of the staff members. IAM has worked in Afghanistan for nearly six decades, it said. "IAM has worked in Afghanistan alongside Afghan communities for 57 years and we value and respect local customs and cultures. We stand by the principle that 'aid will not be used to further a particular political or religious standpoint,'" it said, adding, "All IAM staff agree to abide by the laws of Afghanistan." Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/humanitarian-ngo- afghanistan-taliban-staff-detentions/32595529.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NATO to Hold Largest Military Drills Since Cold War in 2024 Sputnik News 20230916 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - NATO will hold its largest exercises since the Cold War dubbed Steadfast Defender in Germany, Poland and three Baltic states in 2024, Chair of the Military Committee Adm. Rob Bauer said on Saturday. "In 2024, the Alliance will be holding its largest collective defense exercise since the Cold War: STEADFAST DEFENDER. Over 40,000 troops from across the Alliance will exercise in Germany, Poland and the three Baltic States," Bauer was quoted as saying by NATO at a joint press conference with the head of the Norwegian armed forces, Eirik Kristoffersen. The alliance is stepping into a "new era of collective defense," Bauer added. Steadfast Defender is an annual NATO-led exercise designed to ensure that the alliance's forces are trained, able to operate together, and are ready to respond to any threat from any direction. Meanwhile, Adm. Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, chief of staff of the Italian armed forces, was elected Saturday as the new chairman of NATO's Military Committee and will take office in six months, the alliance said. The same meeting also decided to retain the current chairman of NATO's Military Committee, Adm. Rob Bauer, for another six months. "On 16 September 2023, the NATO Chiefs of Defence agreed to extend the mandate of the current Chair of the NATO Military Committee, Admiral Rob Bauer for an extra 6 months, and elect the Italian Chief of Defence, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone as his successor," NATO said in a statement following a meeting of the alliance's chiefs of staff in Oslo. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Blinken's Call with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson September 16, 2023 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres ahead of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly. The Secretary and the Secretary-General discussed a wide array of issues, including the Black Sea Grain Initiative, Russia's unprovoked war against Ukraine, and the security situation in Haiti. They discussed U.S. priorities for the General Assembly, including reinforcing the core principles of the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, modernizing the UN to address 21st century challenges, and our efforts to advance the UN's sustainable development goals. The Secretary shared information on U.S.-hosted side events focused on addressing the threat of synthetic drugs, harnessing artificial intelligence to advance the UN's sustainable development goals, and leveraging private capital for major infrastructure projects. The Secretary thanked the Secretary-General for his efforts to ensure a productive High-Level-Week. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Interview by Foreign Minister Zbigniew Rau with Nowy Swiat 24 Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Republic of Poland 17.09.2023 Interview by Foreign Minister Zbigniew Rau with Nowy Swiat 24 What kind of lesson for the Polish raison d'etat and foreign policy does the criminal Soviet aggression of 17 September 1939 teach us? The fourth partition of Poland, related to the Soviet Union joining the aggression against Poland on 17 September 1939, was an important, breakthrough event, both historically and currently. It was a turning point in international policy, ending the so-called Versailles age. This period was mostly shaped by the American political and military intervention in Europe in 1917-1919. It brought ideas of democratisation in international relations, the American objection to European imperialisms, the development of international law with pursuits to delegalize war, and concepts of collective defence as a guarantee of peace. The Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact and the joint German-Soviet aggression against Poland introduced completely different ideas to the global policy, restored the method of armed aggression to delimit spheres of influence, and rejected democratisation of international relations for the sake of the Concert of Europe and imperial practices. A new age began, based on a logic of international policy imposed by Stalin and Hitler and on the primacy of force over law, which lasted until 1989 when the Iron Curtain collapsed. Unfortunately, at the 1945 Yalta Conference, the democratic powers and leaders of the free world accepted the standards developed by the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact for the sake of false realism. As a matter of fact, Stalin forced the democratic states into acknowledging the terms of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact and the logic of spheres of influence. It was in Yalta that the Soviet Union received the democratic powers' approval to move the border of its sphere of influence from the Vistula to the Elbe. Today, president Biden and other leaders of the democratic world make a diagnosis that the age based on international cooperation, globalisation and inclusivity of collaboration for the sake of peace is over. The world is threatened by the return of policy based on antagonisms. This is why Poland must actively remind others about the experience of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact and, later on, of Yalta, to prevent the development of such standards of the new era that will endanger the peace in Europe. First of all, we have to underline that one must not yield to imperialism, nor even neo-imperial tendencies. The democratic countries must not accept the standards of behaviour imposed by autocratic imperialism. Secondly, a compromise between democracy and authoritarianism is impossible because it always takes place at the expense of freedom. When democracy gives up on the defence of freedom and territorial integrity, it has nothing to do with realism. But it always endangers peace and, ultimately, also freedom and democracy. How did the geopolitical importance of Poland change after Russia's invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022? Before this aggression, Belarus governed by dictator Lukashenko joined the implementation of Russia's plan to destabilise Poland through a hybrid attack consisting in trafficking thousands of illegal migrants at our border and provoking a political crisis on the NATO's Eastern flank. This was aimed at destabilising Poland internally and reducing its efficiency to mobilise the world against the new attack on Ukraine, already in the planning phase. As it comes to interpreting the intentions of the Russian imperialism, Poland has well-established credibility, not only for historical reasons. In the past decades, Poland demanded that the threat be eliminated thanks to Georgia's and Ukraine's NATO membership. As a result of Berlin's and Paris's objection, based on hopes for a compromise with the Russian imperialism, this recommendation was not accepted. Our fears came true, when Russia attacked Georgia and Ukraine. In December 2021, Russia demanded a withdrawal of NATO's troops from Poland and the Baltic States. Poland had to show, by own example, the way towards the right response to the Russian attempts. We proved that providing Ukraine with military, political, economic and humanitarian assistance is possible and that we must not yield to Russia's blackmail and threats of escalation. While increasing our expenditure on defence, we point out to our allies that, once the Russian-Ukrainian war is over, we will have to face the threat of another Russian attack. And Europe should be capable of resisting such conventional aggression on its own. Poland is, therefore, perceived as a credible partner in its assessments of the strategic situation and Russia's intentions, and a one that fulfils its commitments to its allies. This is why our influence in the international policy has increased. Is the 2023 BRICS summit a sign of the pursuit of an alternative world order? What challenges to the Polish foreign policy result from the increasing number of countries joining this group? No alternative world order exists and it cannot be created without the most developed countries in the world, which are still grouped in the Atlantic area, NATO, EU and G7. In reality, the BRICS countries do not have much in common, nor do they have mutual interests, but would all like to participate in this format to increase their bargaining position. Firstly, their position with the United States and their transatlantic allies. Secondly, the one with China. The age of globalisation and cooperation, initiated after the Iron Curtain's fall, is over. A new age has begun. All the security strategies published recently read that the world is going to be more antagonised. One of the factors that are still a source of the American domination in the modern world is a network of alliances and potential for forming them. China will try to fill this gap as compared to the United States by investing in BRICS. This statement immediately increased the number of countries wishing to benefit from this kind of Chinese policy and obtain some privileges or other profits from China. This is where we get to the question of community of values and interests. It is impossible to build an alternative to the American alliance system with the sole aim of benefiting from China or improving one's bargaining position with the United States. That's because these are tactical, not strategic, motivations. There are two important matters from Poland's point of view. Poland supports the democratisation of international relations as it prevents the rebirth of the Concert of Europe. All the countries that experienced colonialism are our natural allies in this regard. We oppose any colonial practices and imperial tendencies. Poland does not have any colonial tradition and must strive to use this fortunate fact in its policy, also by tightening cooperation with countries liberating themselves from colonial dependencies. We also consider the rise of antagonistic tendencies in international policy as a phenomenon detrimental to Poland. We understand their sources, but are worried about their possible consequences for the global peace. Poland is vitally interested in strengthening peace and reducing tensions, while at the same time remaining a trustworthy and credible member of the transatlantic community and ally of the United States. 4. How important is the Three Seas Initiative for the Polish raison d'etat and foreign policy? From Poland's perspective, the Three Seas Initiative is a format enabling us to provide equal opportunities in Europe and to reinforce the subjectivity of all EU countries located between the Baltic Sea, the Black Sea and the Adriatic Sea. The common denominator of all these countries are their efforts to overcome the development lagging which was largely caused by the fact that, for centuries, this part of Europe had been subject to the competition of powers. Relatively often, the Western Europe presents the argument that its citizens are wealthier and, thus, should have a bigger say when it comes to Europe's future or the direction of the European integration. However, the source of this accumulated wealth is not intellectual excellency of the Western European communities, but the fact that they were the ones colonising, and not the ones colonised, through overexploitation. The Central European countries, in a broad sense, were victims of partitions and the plundering policy of colonial powers, the so-called orphaned imperialisms. Furthermore, after World War II, the Western European economies and infrastructure were able to quickly recover thanks to a protective umbrella spread over the Western Europe by the United States. As the umbrella also covered the Central Europe after the end of the Cold War, the region's countries were offered a historical opportunity to catch up with the Western Europe in terms of development and wealth. The Three Seas Initiative is supposed to speed up this process and contribute to the democratisation of the development policy in the European Union. It is a very important tool in the Polish foreign policy which should be developed and strengthened. This is our plan. How should the migration policy support Poland's sovereignty? The migration policy, like any other public policy, must benefit Poland and its society. Such policy is implemented by all high-developed countries in the world. It is not based on altruism, but on economic interests and efforts to make their own economies competitive thanks to migrants' aspirations to improve their financial and social status. However, this policy must meet several fundamental conditions. First, it must not lead to a violation of good social governance consisting, among other things, of the citizens' security. Second, this policy must be based on the respect of freedom, Polish customs and law. This means that the policy must help meet the expectations of Polish entrepreneurs facing a labour shortage in Poland. It is worth reminding that, thanks to the government of Law and Justice, we have the lowest unemployment rate in history. The Polish economy keeps growing, along with salaries and the demand for labour force. When it is impossible to find them in Poland, entrepreneurs look for workers abroad. A migration policy referring to human freedom must function on a voluntary basis. The forced displacement will be a source of frustration for both migrants and the Polish society. It is, therefore, out of question to approve of the European Union forcing migrants, who have dreamt about living in another European country, to settle in Poland. Such ideas are a threat to the security of Polish citizens. For this reason, to enable Poles to assess the ideas regarding the displacement of illegal migrants, forced by the European Commission and some Western European countries, we announced a referendum on this subject. It is also out of question to tolerate the illegal migration, initiated by Russia's and Belarus's special services. No one can impose on us a migration policy that is contrary to Poland's interests and endangers the security of Polish citizens. We cannot allow France's, Germany's or Sweden's mistakes to be repeated. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NATO confirms holding 'largest' military exercise since Cold War next year Iran Press TV Sunday, 17 September 2023 8:19 AM A senior official with NATO has confirmed that the US-led military alliance is preparing to hold next year its largest drills since the Cold War with thousands of troops in Germany, Poland and the Baltics. Admiral Rob Bauer, chair of NATO's Military Committee, announced on Saturday that the massive military exercise, dubbed "Steadfast Defender", is scheduled to take place next year in Germany, Poland and the three Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. "In 2024, the alliance will be holding its largest collective defense exercise since the Cold War: Steadfast Defender. Over 40,000 troops from across the alliance will exercise in Germany, Poland and the three Baltic States," Bauer was quoted as saying by NATO at a press conference in the Norwegian capital of Oslo. Stressing that NATO is stepping into a "new era of collective defense," Bauer said the bloc needs to do "much more" to supposedly protect itself against "current threats, but also against reconstituted threats and potential future threats." The admiral also criticized the NATO members' lack of commitment to what he called a solid security foundation and once again reaffirmed the bloc's determination to provide Ukraine with arms in its ongoing conflict with Russia. NATO annually holds several drills, mostly land-focused, to ensure that the alliance's forces are trained and to test their interoperability and readiness to respond to what it slams as "threats." Earlier this week, the Financial Times reported that the Steadfast Defender drills would involve more than 50 ships and between 500 and 700 combat air missions close to Russian borders. The paper said the exercises were scheduled to be held in February and March 2024. Russian officials have on numerous occasions said they perceive NATO's military build-up as a threat, warning that such moves will only increase tensions in the region. The highly-aggrandized war games come as Russia is involved in a months-long "special military operation" in neighboring Ukraine, which enjoys unflinching support from NATO both in the form of funds and logistics. The White House recently confirmed that the administration of US President Joe Biden has so far spent more than $100 billion on the war in Ukraine despite repeated warnings from Moscow. Western officials have criticized Kiev over the past weeks for failing to deliver on its promises of victory on the battlefield despite receiving tens of billions of dollars worth of weapons and munitions and just asking for more. Some Western officials have also construed the support for Ukraine as their loss and a distraction from their own domestic problems. Russia has time and again warned that the continued supply of Western arms and munitions to the Ukrainian military would only prolong the war, add to losses, and exacerbate the sufferings of the Ukrainian nation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Karabakh Leaders Say Agreement Made On Simultaneous Aid Shipments Through Agdam, Lachin By RFE/RL's Armenian Service, RFE/RL's Azerbaijani Service September 17, 2023 Ethnic-Armenian authorities of Azerbaijan's breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh have agreed on procedures for two simultaneous routes of delivery of Russian-provided humanitarian aid, the International Committee of the Red Cross and separatist leaders said on September 17. "In view of the ongoing security and disaster in the country, we decided to accept the joint proposal of the IRGC and the commander of the Russian peacekeeping contingent," Karabakh rulers said in a statement. Mediators in the dangerous regional conflict are also attempting to organize a meeting of representatives from Armenia and Azerbaijan "to soften the tense humanitarian and security situation," separatist sources told RFE/RL, without identifying the mediators. Armenia, which backs the separatists, has accused Azerbaijan of blocking the Lachin Corridor -- the sole road linking Armenia to mainly ethnic-Armenian Nagorno-Karabakh -- since December 2022, causing a humanitarian crisis in the mountainous region. Azerbaijan has insisted that aid trucks should go through the town of Agdam, in Azerbaijani territory, to ensure no contraband was being shipped and have blocked the Lachin route through Armenian territory. Nagorno-Karabakh officials, however, have claimed it is an effort by Baku to control aid shipments and reestablish authority over the region away from ethnic-Armenian leaders. On September 12, Nagorno-Karabakh authorities agreed to allow Russian-provided aid to be delivered directly from Baku-controlled territory via the Agdam road, while in return Azerbaijani authorities agreed to allow simultaneous aid deliveries to the breakaway region through the Lachin Corridor. However, lingering disputes have kept the Lachin route closed, with the latest agreement appearing to pave the way to open that path, although deals between the two sides over the years have often eventually broken down. U.S. and European leaders have called for Azerbaijan to ease the transit of humanitarian aid to the beleaguered region, which is experiencing shortages of food, energy, and medicine. Armenia and Azerbaijan have fought two wars over Nagorno-Karabakh, a predominantly Armenian-populated mountainous enclave that is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan. The most recent war lasted six weeks in late 2020 and left 7,000 soldiers dead on both sides. As a result of the war, Azerbaijan regained control over a part of Nagorno-Karabakh and seven surrounding districts. The war ended with a Russian-brokered cease-fire under which Moscow deployed about 2,000 troops to serve as peacekeepers. With reporting by AFP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/karabakh-leaders- agreement-aid-shipments-agdam-lachin/32596653.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger Sign Charter to Create Defense Alliance Sputnik News 20230917 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The leaders of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger have signed a charter establishing an alliance of Sahel states to create a collective defense architecture, Mali's interim president for the transitional period, Assimi Goita, said on Saturday. "I have signed today with the leaders of Burkina Faso and Niger the Liptako Gourma Charter, establishing the Alliance of Sahel States to create an architecture of collective defense and mutual assistance for the benefit of our people," Goita said on X. An attack on the sovereignty or territorial integrity of one or more parties to the charter will be regarded as aggression against the other parties and will require their assistance, including the use of military force, the document read. The parties also commit to fighting terrorism and organized crime on the territory of Sahel states, the charter added. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address SECNAV Delivers Remarks at Naming of Future USNS Harriet Tubman (T-AO 213) US Navy Speech by Carlos Del Toro Presented on 17 September 2023 Date Published 17 September 2023 CHURCH CREEK, Md. Good afternoon, everyone! It is an honor to be with you today at the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park and Visitors Center. I would like to thank Director Sams of National Park Service Secretary Kurtz of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources for welcoming us to this incredible location that so eloquently captures the history and contributions of Harriet Tubman. This venue was not chosen by happenstance, for today we are gathered here to celebrate Harriet Tubman's decision to self-liberate, a decision she made on this day back in 1849. I would also like to thank the members of the Tubman family, and all of the caretakers of the Tubman legacy who joined us from around the country this afternoon. Many of you are authors, genealogists and historians who have spent countless hours protecting and educating others on the life and legacy of Harriet Tubman. I encourage the rest of our audience to spend time today with these caretakers and listen to their stories so that you may carry them forward in your own lives. I would also like to thank the Honorable Ventris Gibson, the 40thDirector of the United States Mint, for joining us for today's occasion. Finally, thank you to the members of the many organizations that are represented here today, each with a vested interest in preserving Harriet Tubman's incredible life's work and carrying on her mission to secure equality for all Americans. Our department is committed to carrying on the ideals that Harriet Tubman championed throughout her life, and we endeavor to give every one of our Sailors, Marines, and civilians the resources they need to thrive in their professional and personal lives, as well as providing them with a working environment where they feel safe and are treated with dignity and respect. Treating everyone with dignity and respect is a core tenet of my approach to leading our Department; and it should be at the heart of the values of any leader put in this sacred position of trust. Our Sailors deserve the best leaders to guide them through challenging operations, who care for them, who treat everyone with the dignity and respect they deserve regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation. In our fleet, we memorialize the champions who fought for the rights and equal treatment of all Americans through our John Lewis Class of fleet oilers. The ships of this class are named for America's civil rights leaders; this specific naming tradition is a highlight for me because it recognizes what makes America special. It isn't just our war heroes, our elected heroes, or the states and cities that make our country bountiful and beautiful. What truly makes America the world-wide beacon of freedom is our commitment to equality and Opportunity, regardless of race, national origin, ethnicity, age, gender, or orientation. American law is grounded in principles of justice and human rights. And without the plethora of civil rights leaders willing to face injustice head on, progress could not have been made in making this nation a more perfect union. I had the pleasure of naming the seventh and eighth fleet oilers after Supreme Court Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Thurgood Marshall, forever illuminating their lives' work in civil rights. And today, I have the distinct honor of sharing with you that I am naming our ninth John Lewis-class Fleet Oiler the USNS HARRIET TUBMAN (T-AO 213). Harriet Tubman is an American icon, forever enshrined in our national heritage because of her heroic acts while facing the greatest adversity. Born enslaved around 1820, not far from here, she escaped the inhumanity of slavery in 1849. Even after securing her own freedom, she repeatedly risked her life by helping liberate other people as a "conductor" of the Underground Railroad. She was staunchly opposed to oppression and discrimination. These views resonate with the views of our military today. Harriet Tubman, an American abolitionist, was also an American patriot. She served in the Union Army as a nurse, cook, laundress, and scout, all while also assisting fugitive enslaved people escape. She is recognized as not only the first African American woman to serve in the military, but also the first woman in American history to lead a military assault; the Combahee Ferry Raid, which resulted in the freedom of some 700 enslaved persons. Her military contributions provided crucial assistance to the war efforts. Harriet Tubman was indeed a force to be reckoned with. And soon our fleet will have her name emblazoned across the hull of one of our great ships. Now, this will be the second naval ship to bear her name. The first SS Harriet Tubman served throughout WWII supporting our Sailors and Marines across the globe until it was decommissioned in 1972. I believe it is high time that another ship carry forth her legacy. This legacy is one of love, sacrifice, and perseverance, and T-AO 213 will allow all who see her as she sails around the globe to remember and reflect on her actions of as one of our nation's greatest civil rights leaders. Now if I may address the Tubman family: we are honored to have you here with us today. Your great great great grand aunt is a true American hero, and I would like to thank Ms. Tina Wyatt and Mr. Douglass Mitchell for their willingness to share their reflections and insights. I am also honored to announce that Ms. Wyatt will serve as this ship's sponsor. According to naval tradition, a ship sponsor's spirit and presence guide her and her crew throughout her time in service, serving as the connection between her namesake and her crew. Like Harriet Tubman, Ms. Wyatt has spent her life serving others, as both a nurse and as an educator. She has also spent much of her life as a caretaker of Harriet Tubman's legacy, ensuring that her fearlessness and her advocacy for African Americans continues on. Ms. Wyatt, may your connection with this ship guide you to serve in this same spirit of faithfulness her namesake committed her life to. I know that the officers and crew of USNS Harriet Tubman are in good hands. Thank you all again for joining us this afternoon for this special occasion for our Fleet, the Tubman family, and our Nation. And now, it is my pleasure to introduce the woman of the hour to share the story of her legacy. Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in welcoming Ms. Harriet Tubman! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address SECNAV Names Ship After American Abolitionist, Social Activist Harriet Tubman US Navy - Press Release 17 September 2023 Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Carlos Del Toro announced today that a future John Lewis-class oiler, T-AO 205-class, will be named after American abolitionist and social activist Harriet Tubman, Sept. 17. SECNAV Del Toro made the announcement during an Emancipation Celebration at Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center in Church Creek, Md. National Park Service Director Chuck Sams, who is also a U.S. Navy veteran, joined Secretary Del Toro for the announcement at the park. The future USNS Harriet Tubman (T-AO 213) follows the tradition of naming John Lewis-class oilers after civil rights leaders and is the second vessel to bear her name. The first was a Liberty ship built in the United States during World War II. "It's an honor to maintain the naming tradition for our John Lewis-class oilers, and Harriet Tubman is more than deserving of this recognition," said Del Toro. "She was born into unimaginable circumstances, but she dedicated her life to facing great danger and adversity, becoming a 'conductor of freedom', helping others escape slavery. In addition, during the Civil War, Tubman was the first African American woman to serve formally in the military. Her legacy deserves our nation's continued recognition, and our fleet benefits from having her name emblazoned on the hull of one of our great ships." Born into slavery on Maryland's Eastern Shore, in 1822, Tubman was named Araminta by her enslaved parents, Ben and Rit Ross. She changed her name to Harriet after marrying freeman John Tubman in 1844. Tubman escaped slavery in 1849, when her enslaver died and she was to be sold. Sept. 17, 1849, marks the day Harriet Tubman made the important decision to self-liberate. It was this date that she and her brothers Ben and Henry ran away; however, after a couple of weeks into their journey her brothers "disagreed with her about directions" and succumbed to the fear of being captured and convinced her to return with them. Tubman left a second time later that fall (exact date unknown) and reached freedom in Philadelphia. In the ensuing years, she undertook numerous missions south to help at least 70 men, women, and children escape slavery. Known as "Moses," Tubman became an iconic figure during the American Civil War, serving as a Union spy, scout, nurse and cook. In June 1863, she helped plan and execute a successful raid on Combahee Ferry near Port Royal, South Carolina, guiding Union naval steamships carrying 300 Black troops of the 2nd Carolina Volunteer Infantry Regiment (Colored). The raid resulted in the liberation of more than 750 enslaved people. After the war, she continued to advocate for the rights of African Americans and women, speaking at a number of women's suffrage events alongside Susan B. Anthony. Tubman died in 1913 and was buried at Fort Hill Cemetery in Auburn, New York. "This tribute commemorates the powerful legacy of one of our country's most selfless heroes," said National Park Service Director Chuck Sams. "The Underground Railroad's most famous conductor was devoted to the cause of ensuring freedom for all despite personal sacrifice and risk. A true role model for the sailors who will serve on the USNS Harriet Tubman, her passion, courage and intelligence empowered her to overcome extreme obstacles for the benefit of others." Along with the ship's name, Del Toro also announced that the ship's sponsor will be Tina Wyatt, the great, great, great grandniece of Harriet Tubman. The ship's sponsor represents a lifelong relationship with the ship and crew. Wyatt has spent her life helping others as a nurse and also educating and sharing the legacy of Harriet Tubman. "Harriet Ross Tubman is a symbol of faith, freedom, family, democracy and love. Aunt Harriet's legacy is an inspiration to a higher calling within us all, and overall, how we are enabled by sharing love for others and self. It is her supply from God that she had been able to supply others throughout her lifetime and still, her footprint lives on and supplies us now. Such a strong and dazzling example of symbolism in her honor, the naming of an oiler, a ship that supplies other ships with fuel and cargo to function at its highest level, is an example of what she gave in life and continues to give," said Wyatt. The future USNS Harriet Tubman is the ninth ship of the John Lewis Class. The class and lead ship are named in honor of the late civil rights icon Rep. John Lewis from Georgia. The ships are designed to supply fuel to the Navy's operating carrier strike groups. The oilers have the ability to carry a load of 162,000 barrels of oil and maintain significant dry cargo capacity NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Al-Shabab Attacks Ethiopian Military Convoys in Somalia By Harun Maruf, Mukhtar Mohamed Atosh September 17, 2023 Al-Shabab militants attacked convoys carrying Ethiopian soldiers in Somalia's southwestern Bakool region early Sunday, Somali officials said. The ambush targeted two convoys, one traveling from the Somali town of Yeed to Wajid and the second convoy as it traveled from El Barde to the town of Huddur. Ethiopian troops have bases in Wajid and Huddur. A Somali official said local forces were accompanying the convoy that was en route to Huddur from El Barde. The mayor of Huddur, Omar Abdullahi Mohamud, told VOA Somali that the fighting started after the al-Shabab ambushes. "The fighting started after the anti-peace elements attacked the Ethiopian and Somali military convoy moving towards Wajid and Huddur, starting off their attack with explosion," Mohamud said. "The troops have repulsed, and the situation is calm." Mohamud claimed the militants lost as many as 50 fighters. A senior Somali regional official who asked not to be identified told VOA Somali that the more intense ambush targeted Ethiopian troops escorting military supplies to Ethiopian soldiers in Wajid. He said when that convoy left the town of Yeed on Saturday, it spent the night near the village of Booco, about 40 kilometers north of Wajid. "At dawn the convoy resumed its journey towards Wajid but were ambushed by al-Shabab," he said. "We heard two vehicles were hit by explosions." He said the fighting lasted for hours. Al-Shabab claimed responsibility for the ambush. Al-Shabab in a statement claimed it killed 167 Ethiopian soldiers, destroyed military vehicles, and seized a cache of weapons and ammunition. Casualty figures given by both sides have not been independently verified. Meanwhile, Ethiopia's ambassador to Somalia, Mukhtar Mohamed Ware told VOA he saw al-Shabab's claim on social media and described it as "propaganda." "They may try [to attack Ethiopian forces] but they cannot even fire for more than 10 minutes against Ethiopian defenses' forces," he said. "This is a professional army; it's a very well equipped, very well organized, it's always hitting hard when it comes to al-Shabab, so this is a mere propaganda; it's not more than a propaganda against Ethiopia and against Ethiopian defense forces." He rejected al-Shabab's statement, which labeled Ethiopian troops as "crusaders." "We are not crusaders; we are there under the African Union and international community decisions to support legitimate government of Somalia in its effort to establish peace in this country. So, this is a mere propaganda blown by al-Shabab that is commonly known." Ethiopia has thousands of troops in Somalia serving as part of the African Union Transition Mission, or ATMIS, and other forces in Somalia that are there based on arrangements with the government in Mogadishu. A security source told VOA the ambushed troops were not part of ATMIS. "The ambush is true, the incident was bad, but the numbers given by al-Shabab have been exaggerated," the source said. Meanwhile, Somali officials have reported that government troops have captured the main town of Ba'adweyne and the three smaller villages of Qodqod, Qay'ad, and Shabelow. Local forces commander Mohamed Nur Ali Gadaar told VOA that al-Shabab fled Ba'adweyne and two of the villages after a brief firefight on Sunday. Government troops supported by local fighters are now heading toward a fourth town, Amaara, in Galmudug state, he said. The Somali government also reported conducting an operation in collaboration with "international partners" near the village of Ali Foldhere in the Middle Shabelle region on Saturday and Sunday against al-Shabab militants who have been trying to cross a river. The role of international partners in the ongoing operations has been limited to airstrikes against al-Shabab fighters and vehicles. Abdiwahid Moalin Isak contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russo-Ukraine War - 18 September 2023 - Day 572 Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace. "To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal] The UK Ministry of Defence reported that over the last two weeks, Russia has likely further reinforced the hard-pressed 58thCombined Arms Army with additional VDV airborne units on the Orikhiv axis in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. A total of at least five VDV regiments drawn from the 7th and 76th divisions are likely now concentrated within several kilometres of the frontline village of Robotyne. At full strength, such a force should constitute around 10,000 elite paratroopers. However, almost all units are highly likely dramatically under strength. The current situation is likely to be seen as highly unsatisfactory by the VDV hierarchy. Throughout the war Russian commanders have attempted to regenerate the airborne forces as a highly mobile, striking force for offensive operations. Once again, they are being used as line infantry to augment over-stretched ground forces. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that during the day of September 18, there were 20x combat engagements. Also, last night the Russian Federation launched another strike against Ukraine with air-launched cruise missiles and Shahed-136/131 strike UAVs. As a result of combat operations, the Air Force along with the air defense of other units of the Defense Forces destroyed all 17 cruise missiles and 18 of the 24 Shaheds. In total, the Russian invaders launched 17x missile strikes, 33x air strikes and 26x MLRS strikes at the positions of Ukrainian troops and various settlements. Volyn and Polissya axes: no significant changes. There are no signs of offensive groups being formed. Certain units of the Belarusian armed forces are performing tasks in the areas bordering Ukraine. Sivershchyna and Slobozhanshchyna axes: Russia maintains its military presence in the border areas, continues shelling Ukrainian settlements from the territory of russia. More than 15x settlements suffered Russian artillery and mortars fire, including Bleshnya (Chernihiv oblast), Novovasylivka, Stara Huta, Hirky, Pavlivka, Vysoke, Popivka (Sumy oblast), Odnorobivka, Strilecha, Vovchans'k, Ozerne, Stroivka (Kharkiv oblast). Kup'yans'k axis: Russia launched air strikes in the vicinities of Berestove, Kopanky, Shyikivka (Kharkiv oblast). The settlements of Dvorichna, Syn'kivka, Petropavlivka, Ivanivka, Kyslivka (Kharkiv oblast) came under Russian artillery and mortars fire. Lyman axis: the Russian adversary launched air strikes in the vicinities of Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast) and Novosadove (Donetsk oblast). More than 10x settlements suffered Russian artillery and mortars fire, including Nevs'ke, Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast), Spirne, Rozdolivka, Mykolaivka (Donetsk oblast). Bakhmut axis: the Ukrainian Forces successfully repelled several Russian attacks in the vicinities of Klishchiivka (Donetsk oblast). Russian forces tried to restore the lost position in the vicinity of Andriivka (Donetsk oblast) to no success. The Russian occupiers launched an air strike near Bakhmut (Donetsk oblast). More than 10x settlements came under Russian artillery and mortars fire, including Markove, Bakhmut, Chasiv Yar, Ivanivske, New York (Donetsk oblast). Avdiivka axis: The invaders launched an air strike near Avdiivka. The Russian adversary fired artillery and mortars at about 10x settlements, including Kalynove, Oleksandropil', Tonen'ke, Sjeverne, Pervomais'ke, Karlivka (Donetsk oblast). Mar'inka axis: during the day of September 18, the Ukrainian defenders successfully repelled as many as 10x Russian attacks in the vicinity of Mar'inka. The adversary launched an air strike near Krasnohorivka (Donetsk oblast). Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at the settlements of Krasnohorivka, Heorhiivka, Mar'inka, Novomykhailivka, Katerynivka (Donetsk oblast). Shakhtars'ke axis: Russian forces launched air strikes near the settlements of Vuhledar and Staromaiors'ke (Donetsk oblast). Various settlements, including Vodyane, Vuhledar, Prechystivka, Zolota Nyva, Blahodatne, Urozhaine, Rivnopil' (Donetsk oblast), came under Russian artillery and mortars fire. Zaporizhzhia axis: the Ukrainian Forces successfully repelled Russian attacks in the vicinity of Robotyne (Zaporizhzhia oblast). The Russian occupiers launched air strikes near the settlements of Mala Tokmachka and Robotyne. Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at more than 15x settlements, including Malynivka, Hulyaipole, Charivne Novoandriivka, P'yatykhatky, Plavni (Zaporizhzhia oblast). Kherson axis: Russian forces launched air strikes near the settlements of Vesele, Odradokam'yanka and Mykolaivka (Kherson oblast). The Russian occupiers fired artillery and mortars at about 10x settlements, including Zolota Balka, Respublikanets', Kozats'ke, Mykil's'ke and Tomyna Balka (Kherson oblast). At the same time, the Ukrainian Defense Forces continue to conduct the offensive operation on Melitopol' axis and offensives (assaults) on Bakhmut axis, destroying Russian forces and step by step liberating the occupied territories. During the day of September 18, the Ukrainian Air Force launched 8x air strikes on the concentrations of troops, weapons, and military equipment of the Russian adversary. Missile troops hit 2x concentrations of troops, weapons, and military equipment, 1x anti-aircraft missile system, 6x artillery systems, 1x command post of the Russian invaders. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that the previous night, the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation carried out a group strike with long-range airborne precision weapons and strike drones against places where the Kiev regime is storing Storm Shadow cruise missiles and depleted uranium ammunition, as well as centres for radio-technical reconnaissance and the training of sabotage groups of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The goal of the strike has been achieved. All the targets have been engaged. In Donetsk direction, units of the Yug Group of Forces in cooperation with aviation and artillery repelled six enemy attacks near Kleshcheyevka, Veseloye, Mayorsk, Maryinka, and Vodyanoye (Donetsk People's Republic). Up to 255 Ukrainian personnel, three armoured fighting vehicles, and seven motor vehicles have been neutralised. In counter-battery warfare, the Russian troops hit one U.S.-made M777 artillery system, one Polish-made Krab self-propelled artillery system, and one D-30 howitzer. Moreover, an ammunition depot of the 110th Mechanised Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces has been obliterated close to Avdeevka (Donetsk People's Republic). In Zaporozhye direction, coordinated efforts of the Russian Group in combination with air strikes, artillery fire, and heavy flame-throwing systems defeated a cluster of manpower and hardware of the 71st Jaeger Brigade near Verbovoye (Zaporozhye region). Up to 55 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, three pick-up trucks, two D-30 howitzers, one U.S.-made M119 gun, as well as one AN/TPQ-50 counter-battery radar station have been eliminated. In Krasny Liman direction, two attacks launched by assault detachments of the 67th Mechanised Brigade and the 12th Special Forces Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces close to Chervonaya Dibrova and Serebryansky forestry were repelled by professional efforts of the Tsentr Group of Forces, helicopter strikes, and artillery fire. The AFU losses amounted to more than 50 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, three motor vehicles, as well as one D-20 howitzer. In South Donetsk direction, the Vostok Group of Forces, aviation, artillery, and heavy flamethrowers inflicted a complex defeat on manpower and hardware of the 31st Mechanised Brigade and the 128th Territorial Defence Brigade near Staromayorskoye and Urozhaynoye (Donetsk People's Republic). The AFU losses amounted to more than 180 Ukrainian troops killed and wounded, three armoured fighting vehicles, 11 motor vehicles, as well as one D-20 howitzer. Also, an ammunition depot of the AFU's 38th Marine Brigade was destroyed near Prechistovka (Donetsk People's Republic). In Kupyansk direction, air strikes and artillery fire of the Zapad Group of Forces hit manpower and hardware of the 14th, 30th, 92nd mechanised and 25th airborne brigades of the AFU, as well as the 103rd Territorial Defence Brigade near Sinkovka, Berestovoye (Kharkov region) and Novosyolovskoye and Artyomovka (Lugansk People's Republic). Up to 20 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, two motor vehicles, one U.S.-made M777 artillery system, and two Msta-B howitzers were destroyed. In Kherson direction, over 80 Ukrainian troops, five motor vehicles, and two D-30 howitzers have been destroyed during the day. Operational-Tactical and Army aviation, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Group of Forces have engaged AFU manpower and hardware in 123 areas during the day. Also, four command posts of the 67th and 110th mechanised brigades of the AFU and the 100th and 112th territorial defence brigades were hit near Torskoye, Serebryanka, and Avdeevka (Donetsk People's Republic). Russian air defence forces have intercepted five HIMARS MLRS shells during the day. Moreover, 27 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles were downed close to Spornoye (Donetsk People's Republic), Chervonopopovka (Lugansk People's Republic), Mirnoye, Proletarskoye, and Skelevatoye (Zaporozhye region), and Kokhany (Kherson region). In total, 472 airplanes, 249 helicopters, 6,865 unmanned aerial vehicles, 437 air defence missile systems, 11,931 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,151 fighting vehicles equipped with MLRS, 6,426 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 13,121special military motor vehicles have been destroyed during the special military operation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Statement from Attorney General Merrick B. Garland on the Extradition of Ovidio Guzman Lopez from Mexico to the United States Friday, September 15, 2023 For Immediate Release Office of Public Affairs The Justice Department issued the following statement from Attorney General Merrick B. Garland on the extradition of Ovidio Guzman Lopez, son of Joaquin Guzman Loera, aka "El Chapo," from Mexico to the United States: "Today, as a result of United States and Mexico law enforcement cooperation, Ovidio Guzman Lopez, a leader of the Sinaloa Cartel was extradited to the United States. This action is the most recent step in the Justice Department's effort to attack every aspect of the cartel's operations. The fight against the cartels has involved incredible courage by United States law enforcement and Mexican law enforcement and military servicemembers, many of whom have given their lives in the pursuit of justice. I am grateful to them and to the Department's prosecutors for their work and their sacrifice. I am also grateful to our Mexican government counterparts for this extradition. The Justice Department will continue to hold accountable those responsible for fueling the opioid epidemic that has devastated too many communities across the country." Component: Office of the Attorney General Press Release Number: 23-1017 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Memorandum on Presidential Determination on Major Drug Transit or Major Illicit Drug Producing Countries for Fiscal Year 2024 September 15, 2023 Presidential Determination No. 2023-12 MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF STATE SUBJECT: Presidential Determination on Major Drug Transit or Major Illicit Drug Producing Countries for Fiscal Year 2024 By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, including section 706(1) of the Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Year 2003 (Public Law 107-228) (FRAA), I hereby identify the following countries as major drug transit or major illicit drug producing countries: Afghanistan, The Bahamas, Belize, Bolivia, Burma, the People's Republic of China (PRC), Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, India, Jamaica, Laos, Mexico, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela. A country's presence on the foregoing list is not necessarily a reflection of its government's counterdrug efforts or level of cooperation with the United States. Consistent with the statutory definition of a major drug transit or major illicit drug producing country set forth in sections 481(e)(2) and 481(e)(5) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended (Public Law 87-195) (FAA), the reason countries are placed on the list is the combination of geographic, commercial, and economic factors that allow drugs to be transited or produced, even if a government has engaged in robust and diligent narcotics control and law enforcement measures. The James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117-263) amended the definition of major drug source countries to include source countries of precursor chemicals used to produce illicit drugs significantly affecting the United States. For countries with large chemical and pharmaceutical industries, preventing precursor chemicals from being diverted to the production of illicit drugs is a particularly difficult challenge, including for the United States and other countries with strict regulatory regimes to prevent diversion. The PRC has been identified as a major source country due to this change in legislation, and the United States strongly urges the PRC and other chemical source countries to tighten chemical supply chains and prevent diversion. Pursuant to section 706(2)(A) of the FRAA, I hereby designate Bolivia, Burma, and Venezuela as having failed demonstrably during the previous 12 months to both adhere to their obligations under the international counternarcotics agreements and to take the measures required by section 489(a)(1) of the FAA. Included with this determination are justifications for the designations of Bolivia, Burma, and Venezuela, as required by section 706(2)(B) of the FRAA. I have also determined, in accordance with provisions of section 706(3)(A) of the FRAA, that United States programs that support Bolivia, Burma, and Venezuela are vital to the national interests of the United States. Although the rate of drug overdose deaths in the United States is flattening after years of sharp increases, more than 109,000 lives were lost to drug overdoses in 2022, according to preliminary data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This remains unacceptably high, and my Administration is deploying unprecedented resources and building new partnerships to confront this public health and security crisis. Domestically, in the last fiscal year alone, the United States allocated more than $24 billion to expand evidence-based prevention and treatment, including harm reduction and recovery support services, with targeted investments to meet the needs of populations at greatest risk for overdose and substance use disorder. Beyond these additional resources, my Administration expanded access to Naloxone, which can reverse opioid-related overdoses, and made this life-saving medicine available over-the-counter. My Administration has also removed barriers to treatment, including by working with the Congress on bipartisan legislation. My Fiscal Year 2024 Budget calls for an even greater historic investment of $46.1 billion for National Drug Control Program agencies, a more than $2 billion increase from what was enacted during the previous year. This request also includes significant investments in reducing the supply of illicit drugs originating from beyond our borders. The vast majority of illicit drugs causing the most damage in the United States originate from beyond our borders, and our most effective means of reducing the availability of these drugs is to expand and improve our cooperation with international partners. Most drug overdose deaths within the United States involve illicit synthetic drugs and particularly synthetic opioids such as fentanyl. These synthetic drugs can be produced anywhere using precursor chemicals widely available for legitimate purposes, at a fraction of the cost and time it takes criminal organizations to produce dangerous drugs from plants. Every country and region of the globe faces its own challenges from synthetic drugs. In Africa, the synthetic opioid tramadol is driving increasing numbers of injuries and fatalities, especially when mixed with other drugs. In the Middle East, synthetic stimulants are trafficked and sold as counterfeit captagon in large quantities. Ketamine a a synthetic anesthetic with hallucinogenic effects a is increasingly encountered throughout Asia, and it is being found mixed with methamphetamine, which appears to be growing more prevalent and more potent all over the world. And the categories of synthetic drugs are constantly shifting, as drug traffickers adjust formulas to avoid international controls and domestic regulations to create new demand. More than 1,100 new psychoactive substances and designer drugs have been detected and reported to the United Nations over the past decade alone. To confront this common challenge, the United States launched this past summer a new Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drug Threats. This diverse coalition of countries and international organizations will share best practices and expand cooperation to prevent the illicit manufacture and trafficking of synthetic drugs, detect emerging drug threats and use patterns, and promote public health interventions to prevent and reduce drug use and promote recovery. The United States welcomes all like-minded governments to participate in the work of this coalition and join efforts against these rapidly evolving global threats. The political commitment of our international partners remains critical to achieving success against illicit drug threats, and no country is more important than Mexico. Under the Bicentennial Framework for Security, Public Health, and Safe Communities, our two countries have cooperated to seize greater volumes of fentanyl and other drugs. We have worked successfully during the last year to improve law enforcement collaboration, prevent the diversion of precursor chemicals, and arrest key organized crime figures involved in drugs and firearms trafficking, migrant smuggling, and other criminal activity. Sadly, some of these arrests resulted in the loss of lives of Mexican officials, and their sacrifices underscore the shared commitment from both countries to do what is necessary to fight these criminal organizations. To that end and to build on the increased cooperation of the past year, both countries should continue strengthening law enforcement information sharing and collaboration; build capacity to detect and counter drug production and trafficking and diversion of chemicals and drug-related equipment; and improve mechanisms to monitor, prevent, and treat drug substance use disorders. With our key partners in South America, the United States will continue to support ongoing efforts to reduce coca cultivation and cocaine production, expand access to justice, and promote alternative livelihoods. Colombia has historically been a strong partner in the fight against the drug trade. Nevertheless, illicit coca cultivation and cocaine production remain at historically high levels, and I urge the Government of Colombia to prioritize efforts to expand its presence in coca-producing regions and achieve sustainable progress against criminal organizations. In Bolivia, I encourage additional steps by the government to safeguard the country's licit coca markets from criminal exploitation, reduce illicit coca cultivation that continues to exceed legal limits under Bolivia's domestic laws for medical and traditional use, and continue to expand cooperation with international partners to disrupt transnational criminal networks. Afghanistan has been removed from the list of countries determined to have "failed demonstrably" due to progress made within that country over the past year in reducing the cultivation of opium poppy and production of illicit narcotics. However, I remain concerned by the continuation of the illicit drug trade within and originating from Afghanistan, including methamphetamine. The country's drug control efforts must be sustained and expanded to include meaningful steps against drug trafficking and the drug supply chain, including by eliminating illicit drug stockpiles and curbing methamphetamine production. I will reconsider Afghanistan's status during the next annual review based on whether these additional steps are taken, in keeping with Afghanistan's international drug control commitments and in full respect for the human rights of its people. You are authorized and directed to submit this designation, with the Bolivia, Burma, and Venezuela memoranda of justification, under section 706 of the FRAA, to the Congress, and to publish this determination in the Federal Register. JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Accelerometer Malfunction Prompted Luna-25 Module to Crash Into Moon - Roscosmos Sputnik News 20230915 BAIKONUR (Sputnik) - Russia's Luna-25 automatic landing module crashed due to a malfunction of the accelerometer that failed to transmit the information needed for the engine to turn off, Yuri Borisov, the head of Russian state space corporation Roscosmos, said on Friday. On August 20, Roscosmos said that Luna-25 module crashed into the moon's surface after going into an unplanned orbit. Communication with the spacecraft was lost at around 2:57 p.m. Moscow time (11:57 GMT) on August 19. "The correction engine has not stopped working according to the information from the accelerometer, this is the device that shows the change in speed. The reason is that the accelerometers did not turn on. Why they did not turn on, we are looking into it in detail now," Borisov said at a news conference. Currently, there are 16 preliminary causes for the crash, 11 of which have already been checked, and the examination into the causes of the Luna-25 crash is planned to be completed by the end of September, the official added. The first person to convey words of support in connection with the accident was NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, Borisov said. Roscosmos earlier detailed that the landing module crashed because the engine failed to turn off as program, having worked 127 seconds instead of 84 seconds during a transition to pre-landing orbit. However, despite the unsuccessful landing, Russian authorities have underscored that the mission has provided invaluable information to the assignment. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address United States Welcomes Germany's Signing of the Artemis Accords Media Note Office of the Spokesperson September 15, 2023 Germany became the 29th nation to sign the Artemis Accords. In a ceremony hosted by German Ambassador to the United States Andreas Michaelis, Dr. Walther Pelzer, Director General of the German Aerospace Center, signed the Artemis Accords on behalf of Germany. Acting Assistant Secretary of State Jennifer Littlejohn gave remarks, as did NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, Executive Secretary of the U.S. National Space Council Chirag Parikh, and Federal German Coordinator of German Aerospace Policy Dr. Anna Christmann. The Artemis Accords were launched on October 13, 2020, with eight nations. Jointly led by the Department of State and NASA for the United States, the Accords are grounded in the Outer Space Treaty of 1967. With Germany's signature, the twenty-nine Accords signatories are: Argentina, Australia, Bahrain, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Czech Republic, Ecuador, France, Germany, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, New Zealand, Nigeria, Poland, the Republic of Korea, Romania, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The diverse Accords signatories represent a growing multilateral conversation and share a common vision of peaceful space cooperation. By signing the Accords, Germany has demonstrated its commitment to important principles such as transparency, emergency assistance and release of scientific data in its space activities. The United States and Germany have a strong partnership in civil space, including in aeronautics research, science, and exploration. Through the Artemis Accords, our nations share a common understanding and approach to safe and sustainable exploration and use of outer space. For more information, please visit https://www.state.gov/artemis-accords/. For media inquiries, please contact OES-PA-DG@state.gov. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Joint statement 15 Sep 2023 Prime Minister, President of the United States of America, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Today, we, the leaders of Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States mark the second anniversary of the announcement of AUKUS. The first major initiative of AUKUS was our decision to support Australia's acquisition of conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines (SSNs). In March 2023, we stood together in San Diego and announced the pathway to deliver on this commitment - an ambitious plan that will strengthen our combined military capabilities, boost our industrial capacity, and enhance our ability to deter aggression in the Indo-Pacific. Our nations continue to deliver on these goals; the first Australian military personnel graduated from the U.S. nuclear power school in July and the USS North Carolina completed the first SSN port visit to Australia as part of AUKUS in August. We continue to engage openly and transparently with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and remain committed to an approach that sets the highest non-proliferation standard. We welcome commencement of Australia's bilateral negotiations with the IAEA on an arrangement pursuant to Article 14 of Australia's Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement. We have also deepened our cooperation on advanced capabilities. Two years ago our nations pledged to foster deeper integration of our scientists, industrial bases, and supply chains as part of AUKUS. Since then, we have launched an ambitious proposal to streamline defense collaboration among our nations while strengthening our ability to protect the sensitive technologies that underpin our security. We will act with purpose to develop and produce the capabilities that will matter most in the future; our plans to modernize defense trade set in place a foundation on which we will build those capabilities. We continue to make progress across our current capability development programs, including holding the first demonstration of AUKUS artificial intelligence and autonomous capabilities in the United Kingdom. As our work progresses on these and other critical defense and security capabilities, we will seek opportunities to engage allies and close partners. As democracies, our legislatures have an important role to play to oversee and enable our progress. We are committed to working with them, and look forward to historic action that will empower AUKUS's success, including authorizing the necessary legislation to implement our submarine cooperation and modernize our defense trade systems while strengthening our ability to protect critical technologies. Our work under AUKUS reflects our continued commitment to supporting a free and open Indo-Pacific that is secure and stable. Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States have a long history of working together, along with other allies and partners, to uphold the rules-based international order where human rights and the rule of law are respected, and states can make sovereign choices free from coercion. Today, as we mark the second anniversary of AUKUS, we recommit ourselves to these values and look forward to continued progress as our nations stand together to help sustain peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and around the world. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address AUKUS Partners update the IAEA Board on naval nuclear propulsion The United Kingdom, Australia and the United States updated the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors on AUKUS naval nuclear propulsion. 15 September 2023 The below statement was delivered by Australia on 14 September 2023 under agenda item 12: Any Other Business. Thank you, Chair. I have the honour of speaking on behalf of Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Chair, We thank Director General Grossi for his update in his written introductory statement to this Board on Australia's naval nuclear propulsion program. As the Director General noted, bilateral technical consultations between the IAEA and Australia on Australia's naval nuclear propulsion program are ongoing, including in relation to the development of an Article 14 arrangement. We remain fully committed to ensuring our approach meets the highest non-proliferation standard. Chair, Colleagues will recall that, at the previous meeting of the Board, the Director General reported (in GOV/INF/2023/10) that Australia had submitted the required declarations under its CSA, AP, and Subsidiary Arrangements; the IAEA had conducted in-field verification activities, including a design information verification visit; and discussions on the technical aspects of an arrangement pursuant to Article 14 of Australia's CSA had been initiated. Chair, The Director General has confirmed the IAEA will develop a robust safeguards approach for Australia's naval nuclear propulsion program which will enable the Agency to continue to meet its technical safeguards objectives established for Australia. Since the June Board meeting, Australia's bilateral technical consultations with the IAEA have continued. These discussions encompass technical and legal aspects of an Article 14 arrangement for Australia, including in relation to possible verification and monitoring activities and voluntary transparency measures. As has been confirmed by the Director General, these ongoing bilateral consultations are taking place on the basis that Australia's Article 14 arrangement will not remove nuclear material from IAEA oversight. Throughout the lifecycle of Australia's program, the Agency will be able to continue to verify and conclude that there has been no diversion of declared nuclear material, no misuse of facilities, and no undeclared nuclear material or activities. Chair, We wish to make clear that, contrary to what some delegations have suggested, we do not seek to impose a template or model Article 14 arrangement. When developing an Article 14 arrangement for Australia or another state, the Agency will need to account for state-specific factors. The Director General has committed to transmitting the Article 14 arrangement, once developed, to the Board for appropriate action. As we have said previously, we fully support this approach. Chair, AUKUS partners have already addressed during this Board meeting some of the more egregious disinformation we have heard from other delegations, and I do not intend to go over that again. In line with our abiding commitment to transparency, however, we welcome the opportunity to update the Board and, as appropriate, we will continue to address genuine questions from interested delegations regarding our non-proliferation approach through this and other fora. Thank you, Chair. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Statement by AUKUS partners to the IAEA Board of Governors UK Ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Corinne Kitsell, gave a statement on behalf of Australia, the UK and the US on AUKUS. 15 September 2023 The below statement was made on 14 September 2023 under agenda item 9: Transfer of the nuclear materials in the context of AUKUS and its safeguards in all aspects under the NPT. Chair, I take the floor on behalf of Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States to respond to comments made regarding Australia's acquisition of naval nuclear propulsion technology. In response to the inclusion of this politically motivated and unnecessary agenda item, we refer Board members to our note verbale dated the 7th of September. In order to support the Board's efforts to dedicate its limited time to address genuinely pressing issues, we have not taken procedural action against the addition of this agenda item in meetings of the Board. But to be clear, in common with many other Board members, that does not mean we support it. As we have done at previous Board meetings, an update will be provided on Australia's naval nuclear propulsion programme under Any Other Business. We had intended to provide only a short reply under this item. However, due to the serious nature of some of the misleading assertions we have heard here today, as well as having been circulated in a recent nonpaper, it is important that we directly address some of the more egregious claims. We recognise that there are genuine questions amongst Member States regarding naval nuclear propulsion in Comprehensive Safeguard Agreement (CSA) states. We will continue to engage in good faith with states, consistent with our approach to maintaining open and transparent engagement. Unfortunately, attempts at genuine discussion of this issue continue to be subject to ever-evolving attempts designed to sow mistrust in the Agency or undermine its independent mandate. We have now seen several iterations of political manoeuvring by certain states to misrepresent the AUKUS partners' responsible and transparent approach to implementing their safeguards obligations. We have heard many differing and often self-contradictory arguments in this effort. Many of these arguments have been abandoned by their proponents when it became clear they carried no weight or did not reflect reality, only to be replaced by new disinformation. Chair, The Director General has been clear that the Agency already has 'the necessary experience to develop the arrangements related to the use of nuclear material for naval nuclear propulsion in accordance with the Statute and relevant safeguards agreements'. Australia's nuclear fuel cycle will remain under IAEA oversight, in accordance with the provisions in Australia's CSA and AP, throughout the lifecycle of Australia's naval nuclear propulsion program. The Director General has confirmed that it will be necessary for Australia's Article 14 arrangement to allow the Agency to continue to fulfil its technical safeguards objectives. Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States remain fully committed to ensuring the IAEA is able to fulfil its mandate. Chair, Contrary to the disinformation being perpetuated by some member states, the Director General has also confirmed that - for any CSA state acquiring naval nuclear propulsion technology - he will transmit an Article 14 arrangement to the Board for 'appropriate action'. As with the implementation of other provisions of states' CSAs, the practical arrangements to be applied in Australia under Article 14 are the subject of bilateral in-confidence negotiations between Australia and the IAEA. Once negotiated, the arrangement will be brought to the Board. This is entirely consistent with the exchange of letters between Australia and the Director General in 1978. To suggest that the Board will be bypassed is false. We do not accept attacks on the mandate, independence, expertise or professionalism of the Director General and the Secretariat. It is deeply concerning that some states are calling into question the ability of the Director General to perform the functions vested in him by the Statute and by decisions of the Board. The politicisation by some states of this technical issue risks undermining the independence of the Agency - the cornerstone of the non-proliferation regime. As stated by the Director General this is part of the legal framework set out in the CSAs concluded on the basis of INFCIRC/153, which the Board has authorized the Director General to conclude and implement. We have full confidence in the Director General that he will continue to fulfil his mandate with professionalism and integrity. Chair, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States continue to oppose proposals for a standing agenda item, a new 'intergovernmental' or other parallel process, or any effort that would undermine and politicize the independent technical mandate of the IAEA. We do not accept politically motivated attempts to disrupt the Agency's implementation of safeguards agreements. We reject any suggestion that the Agency does not have a mandate to engage bilaterally with Member States on issues relevant to the implementation of safeguards. All states rely on the rights - and obligations - enshrined in safeguards agreements to engage bilaterally and in confidence with the Agency. To impose new limits or conditions on this right would threaten Member States' confidence in the Agency's ability to implement its safeguards mandate and could risk relegating the Agency's implementation of safeguards to a secondary position. This is completely inconsistent with the letter and spirit of the legal framework and would threaten to send us down a dangerous path. Chair, We welcomed the Director General's decision to report to the June 2023 Board meeting on developments related to Australia's naval nuclear propulsion programme, as well as his separate report on Brazil's naval nuclear propulsion programme. The Director General has confirmed he will continue to provide reports on naval nuclear propulsion programmes as appropriate, and we support his prerogative in this regard. We welcome constructive Board discussions on NNP on the basis of reports by the Director General, including under apolitical agenda items when there are substantive developments to discuss falling within the IAEA's remit. Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States will continue to keep the Board updated on our ongoing engagement with the IAEA, including under Any Other Business at this meeting. We urge colleagues to reject deliberate efforts to disrupt the Agency's independence and integrity. Thank you, Chair. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Meeting with President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko Vladimir Putin met with President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko at the Bocharov Ruchei residence. September 15, 2023 12:00 Sochi President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr Lukashenko, We maintain contact and consultations on our relations and interaction, first of all, in the economy. Fortunately, everything is stable here and is developing sustainably. I want to tell you in detail about the process of drafting the federal budget, which is about to be concluded. Everything is stable, which is good news. Why I am saying this: because you and I know well that the condition of the Russian economy affects our interaction within the Union State. In addition, we have mutual responsibilities and issues in this regard. I believe there is a need to align our positions on some issues. As you know, I have recently met with the leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. I would like to inform you about our discussion on the developments in the region, which is also important, and, of course, our most pressing issue, the events in Ukraine as regards the Ukrainian crisis. I am happy to see you. Thank you for agreeing to come. President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko: Mr President, thank you for the invitation. First of all, I want to congratulate you on such an important stage of the electoral cycle: the single voting day was held in many regions. The results are well known, so I do not want to analyse them; it seems there have never been such results. These are impressive results for the President as well: all gubernatorial candidates that you supported were supported by the people. It is a big success. Second, our integration cooperation. We have already stated that our officials did a good job fulfilling our instructions: more than 80 percent of tasks we set to the governments have been fulfilled and there are still three more months. I think that we will complete other issues, too. I would like to inform you that there were not exactly disruptions but certain difficulties on the fuel market. We have stabilised the situation and supplied as much as the Russian Federation needed and the Government asked: I think 60,000 [tonnes] of diesel and gasoline each; and we will stabilise the situation on our common markets. If we have to decrease supplies to foreign markets and increase the internal demand, it is not a problem. Vladimir Putin: Thank you. Alexander Lukashenko: This is why we address all these issues, both large and small. You are right that they tried to bend us to their will but failed. On the contrary, we somehow mobilised our resources, which even you did not expect, I know, and I did not expect that we could hold out either. Yes, we are a little poorer; our lives are a little poorer, but just a little bit. I think that next year will be a good one and we will reach the pre-sanctions period in our economy. Miscellaneous issues, starting from the military-industrial complex and other things related to the Ukrainian conflict, have been almost resolved. If there is something left, then we know in which direction we should move. Thank you once again for the invitation. I watched carefully how hard you worked over the past few days. It was nice to see you with [Chairman of State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea] Kim Jong-un at the Vostochny Space Centre, because I have been there myself, and it was somehow more pleasant knowing that you and I visited this space centre earlier. I think we can consider trilateral cooperation with North Korea and Russia. I know the Koreans are very interested in Russia and I think that Belarus will find something to work on considering the existing problems. I will tell you about our cooperation with Africa, with African countries. The leader of Equatorial Guinea, a very famous and forward-looking person, visited the Republic of Belarus. We also enjoy joint work on the African track. In short, it seemed that we have dealt with all issues but they keep accumulating, so we need to consult each other in a timely manner. I appreciate that you have found the time for us to talk and discuss our future steps, even though it has been a tiring time for you with all those flights. Vladimir Putin: I visited our two major construction projects related to natural gas and gas conversion. What I want to say about the restrictions imposed on us: European companies refused to deliver equipment because maybe they believed that we lacked competences. We have restored all our competences, all of them. We only needed to adjust the schedule slightly, by several months. Major, global-scale facilities will be put into operation in the nearest future. Those who were forced - and our European partners keep saying that they were forced to stop working with us - they are suffering huge losses and loss of profits. Moreover, some major high-tech companies had to lay off 50 percent and sometimes even 70 percent of their staff. We are restoring them and are building additional engineering competences, which is very good. Yes, we do need to adjust the deadlines and make do with less, but the advantage is obvious. Yes, we still have much to work on, especially when it comes to advanced technology, but if the situation was different... The day before yesterday, my colleagues reported that new competences in this area are being built, and it was very important to hear this. We will discuss that later and I will tell you more. <...> NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko answered media questions Following the Russian-Belarusian talks, the two leaders answered questions from the media. September 15, 2023 12:25 Sochi Question: Mr Putin, a couple of questions? President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Please, go ahead. Question: Your comment and the one by the Vice-President of Laos [Pany Yathotou], which you made at the EEF plenary session, on the use of cluster munitions, is being widely discussed. The United States is now supplying such munitions to Ukraine. What is the latest information on the use of these weapons in the special military operation zone? Vladimir Putin: They are being used in the broadest possible way. But I have already commented on this, I have nothing to add. The only thing worth mentioning, perhaps, is that this situation, like a drop of water, reflects what is happening in the world as a whole. What I mean by that is that there is one country that thinks it is exceptional, and that country is the United States. That country even thinks it is allowed to do what it considers a crime - it is the United States that uses cluster munitions, using the Ukrainian army in this case. I mean the country considers this a crime, but does it nonetheless, and this is the main problem of today's international relations. This is the reason why the overwhelming majority of participants in international communication have joined us in fighting to create a multipolar world, since no one sees this situation as acceptable. I said almost because even those countries that appear to be allies of the United States, I can assure you, they do not like this situation either, where they are reduced to the role of extras. So yes, unfortunately, they are using them, they call it a crime and are still doing it. Question: If I may, one more question. A broad discussion arose - again at the Eastern Economic Forum - over the possibility of peace talks between Russia and Ukraine and [US Secretary of State Antony] Blinken's statement that "it takes two to tango" about Russia and Ukraine. How do you assess the prospects for talks? Vladimir Putin: As for the Americans, they do not even know how to tango, they have a tendency to - for all the wonderful, amazing music, and beautiful movements - the United States is trying to approach everything from a position of force: through economic sanctions, or financial restrictions, or threats to use military force, and actually using it. They are lecturing others even though they have no idea how to do it and do not want to. Most likely, they just do not want to. This is the first point. Second, I already said that we have never refused to hold talks. So, please, if the other party wants them, they should say so directly. I am speaking about it but the other side keeps silent. Finally, tango is good, of course... I think Ukraine should not forget about its gopak dance. It is important, otherwise they will keep dancing to someone else's tune. And by the way, everyone will have to perform the barynya dance or, in the best-case scenario, the kazachok. Alexander Lukashenko: They sort of started dancing and held three rounds of talks in Belarus, then in Istanbul, and then [US Secretary of State Antony] Blinken and [US Secretary of Defence Lloyd] Austin told Zelensky... Vladimir Putin: Gave a command, and that was it. Alexander Lukashenko: Gave a command and he prohibited them to hold talks. The facts are on the table, they are obvious. So, they should not blame anyone. Vladimir Putin: He signed a decree prohibiting talks. Alexander Lukashenko: Exactly, they forbade themselves. Question: The last question relates to Kim Jong-un's visit. Many in the West believe that the visit will aggravate tensions in the region. They say that Russia all but asked North Korea to send volunteers to take part in the special military operation. What can you say on this matter? Vladimir Putin: I can say that this is complete nonsense. A couple of days ago, I said that 270,000 of our men, our warriors signed contracts with the Russian Armed Forces. But it was old information. This morning it was reported to me that there were 300,000 contracts signed by people who - I want to emphasise this - are ready to sacrifice their lives for the interests of our Motherland, to protect Russia's interests. Yes, we pay them some money, which is much, much more than the average monthly salary in the country. But can money compensate for a death or a severe injury? Of course not. So first of all, our men who sign these contracts are guided by the most noble patriotic sentiments. It commands respect. This is the first thing. Second, about some kind of provocations, escalations, and creating a threat to anyone. We do not threaten anyone. The largest threats in the world today are created by today's ruling elites. They themselves say this. Several years ago, a former [US] Defence Secretary Mr [Robert] Gates, I think, said the greatest threat to the United States came from the territory where the Capitol or the White House is located. They talk about it themselves, while looking for a threat outside. Therefore, I want to stress once again that this is complete nonsense: Korea is our neighbour, and we must build good neighbourly relations with our neighbours one way or another. Yes, there are certain specifics associated with the Korean Peninsula. We discuss this openly; we never violate anything; and in this case we are not going to violate anything. But, of course, we will look for opportunities to develop Russian-North Korean relations. Alexander Lukashenko: Mr Putin, the Westerners have to count first how many of their mercenaries they have sent there, and how many are fighting there. There are dark-skinned, Asian, and white Americans, all of whom are fighting on the side of the Ukrainians. Why blame Russia for inviting someone there? So maybe that is why they need to do it. Secondly, this is a dangerous statement on their part, because they dream about seeing their regular military units there, already lined up near the border in Poland. You have also talked about this. Military units have been formed and are ready to enter Ukraine. You need to look at yourself first and not reproach others. Vladimir Putin: I absolutely agree. By the way, we have detected foreign mercenaries and instructors both on the battlefield and in the units where training is carried out. I think yesterday or the day before yesterday someone was captured again. We do not need to invite people from outside for combat operations. Moreover, I want to emphasise this again, 300,000 people signed contracts and came as volunteers. And moreover: the units that are now being formed are equipped with advanced types of weapons and equipment, and some of them are already 85-90 percent equipped. <...> NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The long arm of Chinese law is getting longer in Southeast Asia How selective will China be in targeting crime groups in cross-border law enforcement? A commentary by Zachary Abuza 2023.09.14 -- For years, Chinese criminal organizations have been setting up shop across Southeast Asia, built on the proliferation of Chinese-dominated Special Economic Zones like Boten in Laos, Shwe Kokko in Myanmar, or the casinos in Cambodia's Sihanoukville. Despite the fact that fugitives from Chinese law often ran these networks, Beijing saw them as a useful tool for advancing its interests. Local governments were on the take, and for the most part, Chinese authorities turned a blind eye to the problem. In Europe triads do everything from marshaling patriotic actions from overseas communities, to quelling dissent and disappearing opposition figures, to opening doors for Chinese businesses, according to a recent report by ProPublica. In Southeast Asia, Beijing similarly uses criminal gangs as instruments of statecraft. The archipelago of SEZs along China's southwestern flank were, in essence, "splinters" of Chinese sovereignty, where local law enforcement had little to no jurisdiction. Recently, however, Chinese law enforcement agencies have intensified their cooperation with Southeast Asian counterparts to address the scourge in transnational crime, money laundering, illicit drug production, human trafficking, and cyber scams. The answer to the question "Why is China moving now?" is becoming increasingly straightforward amid a flurry of international media and think-tank reports on lawlessness and rights abuses in Chinese-controlled economic zones in Southeast Asia. Beijing is facing reputational and diplomatic costs for turning a blind eye to labor and sex trafficking, cyber scams and other crimes in the zones. International media exposes have laid bare China's culpability. Many of these scam centers and human trafficking rings are being run by fugitives from China. First and foremost, they are wanted for crimes committed within China. Chinese victims More importantly for Beijing, the scam centers are praying on Chinese in sufficient numbers that authorities feel they have to take action. This is all the more so as the Chinese economy slows, and people are more susceptible to scams or human trafficking, while illicit drug use is climbing. China's pro-active approach also reflects the fact that there are now enough Chinese citizens who are amongst the 120,000 trafficked people in Myanmar's SEZs and 100,000 in Cambodian scam centers that authorities are being forced to act. Radio Free Asia reported in May about allegations of 1,000 Chinese in a single scam center in Myanmar whose families had to pay $30,000 to secure their release. The bigger questions are how selective will China be in the targets of cross-border law enforcement cooperation with its southern neighbors and how long will the proactive stance last? Recent law enforcement cooperation with Southeast Asian counterparts really got started in 2012, with the arrest of drug lord Naw Kham, wanted for the October 2011 death of 13 Chinese sailors. China compelled law enforcement in Laos and Thailand to assist them in the hunt, and made sure that they got the credit. Cooperation was sporadic afterwards, until recently. In August 2022, Thai authorities arrested She Zhijiang, a Chinese national holding a Cambodian passport, whose Yatai International Holdings has developed Myanmar's Shwe Kokko since 2017. She has been fighting extradition, but is certain to lose. In June 2023, six Chinese suspects were apprehended and returned to China from Myanmar in a joint operation, according to the South China Morning Post. Since then there's been a steady return of Chinese nationals. Just last month, news broke that Singapore authorities had arrested ten individuals in conjunction with a Singapore$1 billion (US$737 billion) money laundering scheme from Cambodian and Philippine casinos. Authorities seized 94 properties, S$125 million ($91 million) in bank accounts, cash, 50 luxury vehicles, and countless luxury items. The investigation and asset seizures have since expanded to S$1.8 billion ($1.3 billion) and includes some 24 individuals. The probe has also expanded to include $56 million in real estate the United Kingdom. Though all were born in China, nine of the ten arrested in Singapore were naturalized Cambodian citizens. While it has gone unsaid, Chinese law enforcement provided key information on the operation to their Singapore counterparts, which fits a pattern of a much more proactive posture of Chinese law enforcement in Southeast Asia. In late August, Myanmar handed over 24 nationals to Chinese authorities, according to Radio Free Asia reporting. In September, Chinese law enforcement, working with their client in Myanmar, the United Wa State Army (UWSA), raided 11 scam centers in Shan State accused of swindling victims out of 120 million yuan ($16.4 million). Law enforcement arrested 269 people, including 186 Chinese nationals who were immediately returned to China. Chinese state media described 21 of the returnees as "golden masters" i.e, the ringleaders. Within days, the number of people returned to China reached 1,207. Footage of Chinese police escorting a column of detained scammers surfaced on social media. Selective actions In another but unrelated case, six people responsible for human trafficking were sent back to China from Myanmar. To date, China's actions in Myanmar have been focused in northern Shan state - which raises the question why Chinese authorities are moving against some but not others on that conflict-ridden country's complicated ethnic map. The UWSA has not taken similar measures in their headquarters area of Kokang in Shan State. Likewise, the scam centers in areas controlled by Karen border guard forces that are aligned with the junta, such as Shwe Kokko and KK Park, or in Lashio or Tachileik in Shan State are still operational. In next-door Laos, the Golden Triangle SEZ continues its expansion into a city now with its own airport. On September 11th, Lao authorities returned 164, including 46 from the Golden Triangle SEZ, but its unclear whether this reflects an overall crackdown on Zhao Wei's criminal empire. What seems more likely is that China will act selectively. Beijing wants to garner diplomatic praise when it does take action, while bolstering its influence with regional security services. China aims to "kill the chicken to scare the monkeys", by sending a clear signal to the syndicates that they will be targeted if they continue to commit crimes in China. Through selective but well publicized operations, the government will try to allay public concerns and demonstrate that it will not allow Chinese citizens to be victimized by criminal networks operating overseas. However, some SEZs and the criminal enterprises that run them remain in Beijing's broad strategic interests. As such, it remains to be seen whether China will continue to put pressure on the governing authorities to shut the zones, illegal casinos and scam centers. 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. 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 September not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China's week-long diplomatic agenda witnesses fruitful results Global Times Ties with Zambia lifted, ironclad friendship with Cambodia cemented By Liu Xin and Liu Caiyu Published: Sep 15, 2023 11:45 PM The week saw a packed new round of diplomatic activities for China, with fresh outcomes achieved on Friday as China and Zambia announced they were lifting their ties to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership during Zambian president's ongoing China visit. Meanwhile, China and Cambodia consolidated their ironclad friendship with a visit by Cambodia's new Prime Minister to China. The wide-ranging, busy schedule of visits to the nation by several foreign leaders from developing countries and new emerging markets and the signing of a slew of cooperation documents showed these nations' recognition of China's role as a responsible major country. While the US and some Western countries are working to build fences, China and the majority of developing countries are widening their friend circle, expanding pragmatic cooperation and strengthening the development of the Global South to inject more stability into the world, analysts said. President Xi Jinping met his Zambian counterpart, Hakainde Hichilema, in Beijing on Friday, during which the two heads of state announced the elevation of the China-Zambia relations to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. The traditional friendship forged by the two countries' older generations of leaders has stood the test of the changing international landscape, and the Tanzania-Zambia Railway has become a symbol of China-Africa friendship, Xi told Hichilema. While meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet in Beijing on Friday, Xi pointed out that Hun Manet chose China as the destination for his first bilateral visit after taking office, which fully demonstrates the great importance the new Cambodian government attaches to consolidating and developing China-Cambodia friendship. China and Cambodia are ironclad friends. Over the past 65 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, the two sides have always maintained a high degree of mutual trust, treated each other as equals, achieved win-win results, and firmly supported each other in safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests, Xi said. In addition to leaders from Zambia and Cambodia, China has hosted several other leaders from developing countries in recent weeks with a series of diplomatic achievements being made. For example, President Xi met with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro Moros on Wednesday, and they jointly announced the elevation of the two countries' relations to an all-weather strategic partnership. These diplomatic activities highlight the fact that more developing countries are pursuing autonomy in their diplomacy unaffected by the ill-intentioned instigation by a handful of Western countries, and seeking to strengthen cooperation with China to boost their own development, said analysts. A model for cooperation When meeting with Hun Manet on Friday, Xi stressed that China firmly supports Cambodia in exploring a development path suited to its national conditions, and stands ready to maintain regular strategic communication with Cambodia and deepen the exchange of governance experience. Hun Manet said that he chose China as the destination for his first official visit to show that the new Cambodian government will continue to firmly pursue a friendly policy toward China and further carry forward the ironclad friendship between Cambodia and China. Hun Manet's visit to China illustrates China's important position in Cambodia's foreign relations and also indicates that the pragmatic cooperation between the two countries has been fruitful and holds great promise for the future, Gu Jiayun, director of the Center for Cambodian Studies at Beijing Foreign Studies University, told the Global Times. The friendship between China and Cambodia is a model of cooperation between developing countries, and the two countries have a high level of mutual trust in politics, Shen Shishun, an Asia-Pacific affairs expert at the China Institute of International Studies, told the Global Times. China and Cambodia also have strong economic and trade complementarity and China can provide Cambodia with the advanced industrial technology and help Cambodia with infrastructure construction that it currently needs, driving the development of underdeveloped areas. Most importantly, deepening the China-Cambodia relationship will not only benefit the people of both countries but also contribute to regional stability and the expansion of mutually beneficial cooperation within the region, said Shen. During the Friday meeting, Xi also noted that China and Cambodia should make good use of the mechanism of the intergovernmental coordinating committee and implement the new action plan for building a China-Cambodia community with a shared future. Xi also called on both sides to enrich the China-Cambodia "Diamond Hexagon" cooperation framework, jointly build the "Industrial Development Corridor" and the "Fish and Rice Corridor," and promote the early implementation of relevant key cooperation projects. Hun Manet said that Cambodia appreciates China's long-term strong support and assistance for Cambodia's economic and social development, and is willing to work with China to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, deepen Belt and Road cooperation, and push for further development of bilateral cooperation in industry, agriculture, investment, culture and other fields under the "Diamond Hexagon" framework. Hun Manet is the eldest son and successor of Hun Sen and took office in August. After visiting China, he will reportedly attend the UN General Assembly in New York, US this month. In response to some US media's hyping of Hun Manet's visit to the US, Shen said that the US has intensified efforts to draw countries around China into an anti-China camp. But the China-Cambodia relationship has withstood the test of time. Any attempt to sow discord will not succeed. Gu noted that China's ironclad friendship with Cambodia is not targeted at any third party, as their friendly relations are based on equality, mutual benefit, and pragmatic cooperation. China is happy to see Cambodia receive more assistance for its national development and hopes that more countries will sincerely help Cambodia's development, rather than engage in the zero-sum game based on geopolitical factors and force Cambodia to choose sides or imply the possibility of "choosing sides," said Gu. Contribution to global devt Zambia is also a country that shares long-term friendship with China. During the meeting with President Hichilema, Xi said that China has always viewed and developed China-Zambia relations from a strategic and long-term perspective, and stands ready to work with Zambia to transform the profound traditional friendship into a strong driving force for win-win cooperation in the new era and push bilateral relations to a new level. China hopes to jointly build the Belt and Road with Zambia and expand cooperation in infrastructure construction, agriculture, mining and clean energy to achieve common development and revitalization, Xi said. China encourages more quality Zambian products to enter the Chinese market and supports more Chinese enterprises in investing in Zambia, the Chinese president said. Noting that the collective rise of developing countries and their increasing international influence have become an irreversible trend of the times, Xi said China and Zambia need to strengthen solidarity and coordination, practice genuine multilateralism, firmly uphold international fairness and justice, strive to increase the voice of developing countries, and safeguard the common interests of the two countries and other developing countries. Hichilema said Zambia cherishes the friendship forged by the older generations of leaders of the two countries. China's development has led to the progress of countries in the Global South, increased their representation and voice in international affairs, and promoted the development of international order in a more just and rational direction, Hichilema said. Hichilema's visit and the elevation of bilateral relations will further facilitate and expand cooperation in development, trade, and economy between the two countries. It will also help Zambia achieve its sustainable development agenda by 2030 and recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Song Wei, a professor at the School of International Relations and Diplomacy at Beijing Foreign Studies University, told the Global Times. The specific areas of cooperation between the two countries, such as industrial processing and digitalization, and projects under the Belt and Road Initiative are of great significance in promoting Zambia's integration into the global value chain, said Song. The past few weeks have witnessed frequent high-level interactions between China and African countries - from President Xi's state visit to South Africa and meeting with African leaders to Beninese President Patrice Athanase Guillaume Talon's visit to China in early September, which came in direct response to the Western countries' touting of so-called neo-colonialism or debt trap narratives against China, and they also underscore the importance of strengthening China-Africa cooperation in the current international landscape, analysts said. Africa is facing a challenging task of economic recovery and due to power struggles and instability, particularly in West Africa, the continent needs strategic support from China more than ever. China, as a member of the BRICS mechanism, also plays a leading role in contributing to the development of developing countries and guiding global governance to reflect the needs of more developing countries, said Song. After the pandemic, China's diplomacy has regained a relatively active and positive posture, Su Hao, director of the Asia-Pacific Research Centre at the China Foreign Affairs University, said about the recent flurry of diplomatic activities. As a major developing country, China plays a very important role in promoting the overall economic recovery and development of the Global South. Its active participation in various multilateral platforms such as BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and G20 will also increase the voice of developing countries, promoting global governance to better reflect the demands of developing countries, said Su. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning's Regular Press Conference on September 15, 2023 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China Vice President Han Zheng will attend the General Debate of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly from September 18 to 23. On the margins of the General Debate, Vice President Han will attend the UN SDG Summit, the Climate Ambition Summit and the high-level meeting on Global Development Initiative (GDI) Cooperation Outcomes hosted by China. He will also have bilateral meetings with the UN Secretary-General, the President of the 78th session of the General Assembly and leaders of relevant countries. CCTV: Following on your announcement that Vice President Han Zheng will attend the General Debate of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly and related high-level events, can you share with us China's expectation for the visit? Mao Ning: The world has entered a new period of disorder and transformation with increasing instability, uncertainties and unpredictable factors as well as rising global challenges. The General Debate of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly will be an important opportunity for the international community to build up political consensus, enhance solidarity and coordination and jointly respond to challenges. Vice President Han Zheng will fully elaborate on China's views and propositions on the current international landscape, global governance and major international and regional issues, call for global efforts to uphold true multilateralism and jointly deliver on the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind. Reuters: Does Wang Yi plan to travel to Moscow to meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov next week as per reports? Mao Ning: China and Russia have been in close communication. You may check back for updates later. Prensa Latina: Several reports implicate Cuba in human trafficking to participate in the conflict in Ukraine. The Cuban government condemned these reports and reiterated its commitment to peace and a political solution to the Ukrainian issue. What's your comment about this? Mao Ning: I'm not aware of that. China's position on the Ukraine issue is consistent and clear. Shenzhen TV: According to reports, devastating flooding caused by Storm Daniel on September 11 has killed many in eastern Libya, with over 10,000 missing. It's estimated that the casualties will climb further. What's your comment? Is China prepared to offer disaster-relief assistance to Libya?a Mao Ning: We are closely following the devastating flooding triggered by Storm Daniel, which has caused heavy casualties and property losses in eastern Libya. President Xi Jinping has sent a message of condolence to Chairman of the Libyan Presidential Council Mohammad Al-Manfi, extending deep condolences over the loss of lives and sincere sympathiesato the bereaved families and the injured. President Xi also expressed his beliefathat the Libyan people will surely overcome the difficulties together and defeat the disaster. To support Libya's disaster-relief efforts, the Red Cross Society of China has announced that it would provide emergency cash assistance to the Libyan Red Crescent Society. The Chinese side is working around the clock to provide humanitarian assistance to Libya. We stand ready to help the Libyan people to overcome the difficulties and rebuild their home at an early date based on the needs on the ground. Phoenix TV: According to reports, Japan's newly appointed Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa said at her inaugural press conference that Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's position on China remains unchanged. She believes that both sides are committed to building constructive and stable ties. What's your comment?a Mao Ning: China has extended congratulations to Ms. Yoko Kamikawa on her appointment as Foreign Minister. Ms. Yoko Kamikawa once traveled to China as a member of a visiting delegation and participated in an activity at the Chinese Embassy in Japan as Senior Vice-Minister in the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications. We hope that the foreign services of both countries will work together to implement the important common understandings reached between the leaders of both sides, step up dialogue and cooperation, manage differences, and jointly build a stable and constructive China-Japan relationship fit for the new era. China Daily: Lately the US has provided advanced weaponry to China's Taiwan region through arms sales, military assistance and loans. China's foreign ministry spokesperson said earlier that China would take strong measures to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. I wonder if you have anything new on that? Mao Ning: In disregard of China's firm opposition, the US government deliberately supplies weapons to China's Taiwan region. This seriously violates the one-China principle and the stipulations of the three China-US joint communiquAs, contravenes international law and basic norms governing international relations, and undermines China's sovereignty and security interests. The US is going further down the wrong and dangerous path of arming Taiwan. Lockheed Martin Corporation, St. Louis, MO directly participated in the US arms sale to Taiwan announced on August 24 as the principal contractor. Northrop Grumman participated in several US arms sales to Taiwan. In accordance with the Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law of the People's Republic of China, China decides to impose sanctions on these two above-mentioned US defense corporations. Let me stress, the Chinese government never wavers in its resolve of safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity. We call on the US to earnestly abide by the one-China principle and the stipulations of the three China-US joint communiquAs, stop arms sales to Taiwan, stop military collusion with Taiwan, and stop arming Taiwan, otherwise it will be met with China's resolute response. AFP: The British government said yesterday that Chinese spies are targeting senior British officials in order to gain access to classified information. What is the foreign ministry's response to this allegation? Mao Ning: We've already made clear China's position on this issue earlier. The allegation that China spies on the UK is entirely groundless. We have no interest in and will not interfere in the UK's internal affairs. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US House leaders decry Huawei's new phone The chairs of four committees are among 10 lawmakers asking how Huawei and SMIC developed advanced chips. By Alex Willemyns for RFA 2023.09.15 -- Ten U.S. lawmakers including four House committee chairs have asked the Biden administration to explain how two Chinese telecoms giants developed advanced microchips in spite of U.S. export controls. Shenzhen-based Huawei this month released a new flagship smartphone, the Huawei Mate 60 Pro, which it said uses a new chip produced using 7-nanometer lithography by Chinese chipmaker Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation, or SMIC. The process, which uses microscopic rays of light to etch circuits onto silicone chips, was meant to be out-of-reach for Chinese chipmakers for years due to the Biden administration's export controls banning the sale to Chinese companies of machinery needed to achieve it. The announcement of the phone reportedly shocked industry insiders, who did not understand how SMIC was able to produce the chip. 'Perplexed' A public letter released on Thursday by chairs of the House committees on foreign affairs, energy and commerce, armed services and China says they are "extremely troubled and perplexed" about the Commerce Department's "inability to effectively write and enforce export control rules against violators, especially China." The letter singles out Alan Estevez, under secretary of commerce for the Bureau of Industry and Security, and says the committees "for more than two years" warned of "loopholes in BIS rules attempting, unsuccessfully, to restrict technology to Huawei and SMIC." "BIS has continued to grant licenses to Chinese Communist Party (CCP) controlled companies, such as SMIC, worth hundreds of billions of dollars," it says. "These companies support the CCP's military and have been responsible for manufacturing semiconductors that power Huawei's 5G devices, in violation of BIS' export controls." It also calls for the enforcement of export controls to ensure SMIC can no longer gain access to restricted U.S.-made technologies. The letter is signed by Rep. Michael McCaul, chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, chair of the Energy and Commerce Committee, Mike Rogers, chair of the Armed Services Committee, and Mike Gallagher, chair of the Select Committee on China, as well as Reps. Ann Wagner, Robert Latta, Young Kim, Gus Bilirakis, Brian Mast and Morgan Griffith. All are Republicans. Investigations National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan also told reporters on Sept. 5 that the U.S. government was still evaluating the SMIC-built chip. "In terms of characterizing the chip in question, that's something that we need to gain more information from before we make any definitive comments," Sullivan said, adding that the United States would continue to enforce "a 'small yard, high fence' set of technology restrictions focused narrowly on national security concerns." A spokesperson for the Bureau of Industry and Security told Radio Free Asia on Friday that the bureau would respond to the letter "via appropriate channels" and seemed to question the chip's make-up. They said U.S. "restrictions in place since 2019 have knocked Huawei down and forced it to reinvent itself" at a "substantial" cost. "We are working to obtain more information on the character and composition of the purported 7nm chip. Let's be clear: export controls are just one tool in the U.S. government's toolbox to address the national security threats presented by the PRC," the spokesperson said, using an acronym for the People's Republic of China. "We are continually working to assess and, when appropriate, update our controls based on the dynamic threat environment and we will not hesitate to take appropriate action to protect U.S. national security." 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 September not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China 'investigating' missing Defense Minister Li Shangfu: reports Reports say the probe is linked to military procurement and will likely see him removed. By Raymond Cheng for RFA Cantonese, Wang Yun for RFA Mandarin 2023.09.15 -- Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu is reportedly being investigated by the ruling Chinese Communist Party after being out of the public eye since Aug. 29, according to several Western media reports. Li is the second senior Chinese official to go missing after the recent disappearance of former Foreign Minister Qin Gang. Reuters quoted "10 people familiar with the matter" as saying that Li is being probed for corrupt procurement of military equipment, without specifying the kind of equipment involved. "Eight senior officials from the Chinese military's procurement unit, which Li led from 2017 to 2022, are also under investigation," the agency said in a report on Friday, citing two people in direct contact with the military. The Washington Post quoted U.S. officials as saying that Li, who was last seen in public at the China-Africa Peace and Security Forum in Beijing on Aug. 29, is currently under investigation for "corruption," and will likely be removed from his post. An official account of Li's last public speech from state news agency Xinhua was still available on the website of the State Council on Friday. The Wall Street Journal also reported that Li will lose his job, while the Financial Times reported that the U.S. government believes him to be under investigation. Li, 65, has missed meetings with Vietnamese and Singaporean defense leaders in recent weeks, Reuters said in an earlier report quoting sources with direct knowledge of the engagements. Another disappearance The reports came after Rahm Emanuel, the U.S. ambassador to Japan, tweeted that Li was also "a no-show" for his planned trip to Vietnam, drawing parallels with Qin Gang's disappearance. "President Xi's cabinet lineup is now resembling Agatha Christie's novel 'And Then There Were None,'" Emanuel wrote. "First, Foreign Minister Qin Gang goes missing, then the Rocket Force commanders go missing, and now Defense Minister Li Shangfu hasn't been seen in public for two weeks. Who's going to win this unemployment race? China's youth or Xi's cabinet?" Beijing has remained tight-lipped about the whereabouts of Qin, who was replaced as foreign minister by top Communist Party diplomat Wang Yi on July 25. By July 31, President Xi Jinping had also replaced the commander of the country's rocket corps -- which controls the country's nuclear missiles -- amid media reports of an investigation into his predecessor and his deputies. U.S.-based former PLA Navy Lt. Col. Yao Cheng said that move was part of Xi's bid to remove any dissenting voices from the highest echelons of military command as part of preparations for a military invasion of democratic Taiwan. "It's been the Rocket Force people who don't want to go along with Xi Jinping's plan," Yao told Radio Free Asia at the time. "They don't want a war -- they fear war because they have a very clear idea of what their missile capabilities are." 1982 army enlistment Li joined the Communist Party in 1980 and enlisted in the army in 1982, serving as director of the Equipment Development Department of the Central Military Commission and other important positions in procurement. By 2022, he had a seat on the party's 20th Central Committee, and was appointed defense minister in March 2023. Li was sanctioned by the U.S. State Department in September 2018 due to transactions with Russian arms dealers. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning declined to comment on Li Shangfu's whereabouts when asked about him during a regular news briefing on Monday. "I'm not aware of the relevant information," she told reporters. The defense ministry didn't immediately respond to requests for comment from Reuters, while the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo said it had no further comment for the time being, the agency reported. 'Invisible' factors Political commentator Johnny Lau said that arrests of senior officials in China for "corruption" can be highly selective, and have little to do with how corrupt any of them are. "We have seen in the past that there were a number of factors that were invisible ... in the Chinese Communist Party's ongoing anti-corruption campaign," Lau said. "In other words, he has chosen [whom to target], and these aren't genuine anti-corruption cases." "They don't involve the state legal system until they have figured out the impact on the party [of targeting this person], using its disciplinary system," he said. "This way of going about it feels a lot like rule by a single individual." But Lau said Beijing is unlikely to put on a big show trial, as it did in the case of former Chongqing party chief Bo Xilai and his political associates. "A lot of these things are dependent on various factors, like internal reshuffles, power struggles and internal shock-dampening," he said. But Lau saw the recent changes at the head of the Rocket Force as likely to lead to less military tension, rather than more. China this week unveiled a "blueprint" for "peaceful unification" including economic incentives and sweeteners for residents of Taiwan, which has never been ruled by Beijing, to move to China's Fujian province to live and work. Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster. Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content September not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Remarks by Assistant Secretary for International Finance Brent Neiman at the Program on International Financial Systems' U.S.-China Symposium in Hong Kong U.S. Department of the Treasury September 15, 2023 As Prepared for Delivery Thank you to the organizers at the Program on International Financial Systems (PIFS), Harvard Law School, and the China Development Research Foundation for hosting this "Symposium on Building the Financial System of the 21st Century: An Agenda for China and the United States." Prior to joining the U.S. Treasury, I enjoyed teaching here in Hong Kong as an economics professor. I always admired the intense curiosity and respect for academics and analytical rigor that I found in my students. Not to mention my taste for dim sum, a love that even made it into my professional bio. This symposium comes at a difficult but fascinating time for the global financial system, which has been charged with channeling massive amounts of capital to support the public sectors' pandemic responses, has been stressed by the rapid tightening of financial conditions worldwide, and has been confronted by substantial technological change and innovation. It also comes at an important time for U.S.-Chinese economic relations, the recent course of which was charted late last year, when President Biden and President Xi met in Bali and tasked their teams with following up on a range of important issues. In July, I accompanied Secretary Yellen on her trip to Beijing, where she reiterated the three key elements in our economic approach to China. First, the United States seeks healthy economic competition with China where both countries play by the rules of fair competition, a system that can foster growth and innovation and bring benefits to both countries. Second, the United States and China have a duty both to our own countries and to the world to cooperate and show leadership on important global challenges. And third, the United States will pursue targeted actions that protect our national security interests and will oppose policies that do not reflect our values, such as the recent steps taken in Hong Kong that have weakened social and political freedoms. We will protect human rights, and we will clearly communicate to the PRC our concerns about its behavior. Secretary Yellen and I agree that it would be disastrous for both our countries were our economies to fully separate or "decouple." After all, our economies are connected through trade in goods and services between the United States and China, which exceeded $750 billion last year. When we take actions to protect our national security, such as targeted sanctions against specific PRC companies identified as having provided support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine, these measures are narrowly tailored to achieve our national security objectives. They are not used to stifle China's economic development or to provide a competitive advantage to U.S. companies. Similarly, our economies are connected through trade in assets, or investments made by U.S. households and firms into China and Chinese investment in U.S. assets. Both the United States and China are woven into the global financial system, and China's total stock of foreign direct investment (FDI) is second in the world only to the United States. Moreover, the stock of bilateral FDI is also substantial, with U.S. FDI in China standing at over $120 billion and China's stock of direct investment into the United States totaling nearly $30 billion. Members of the S&P 500 generate almost 8 percent of their revenue in mainland China, the biggest international source by far and a larger share than the next three countries combined. And around 250 Chinese companies are listed on U.S. exchanges with a total market capitalization of over half a trillion dollars. After accounting for positions intermediated through third countries, Americans in 2020 owned more than $1 trillion in the bonds and common equity of Chinese firms. There are some restrictions to cross-border financial activity between our two countries, but as with our trade-based national security tools, our investment-based tools are narrowly scoped and not designed to achieve competitive advantage or to stifle China's financial development. China's financial restrictions are more extensive, in part based on its capital controls on inflows and outflows and in part based on its own national security framework. China's increasing data security measures and restrictions on cross-border information flows also pose growing challenges for our financial institutions operating or investing in China. The recently announced U.S. outbound investment executive order is one example of our small yard, high fence approach to protecting national security technologies. Last month, the President signed an Executive Order, or E.O., to address the national security threat to the United States from certain countries of concern that are engaged in comprehensive, long-term strategies to acquire and develop sensitive technologies critical for military, intelligence, surveillance, or cyber-enabled capabilities that threaten our national security. This policy action is designed to be narrow and address particular national security risks. I want to emphasize that this program is not an attempt to financially decouple our economies or substantially change the investment climate between our two countries. And, I believe it was helpful that Secretary Yellen was able to deliver this same message, directly to her Chinese counterparts, during her trip to Beijing. She noted that China has for many years now had its own outbound investment regime, with relatively limited transparency, and she explained that any potential U.S. program would follow a highly transparent rule making process with a period in which comments could be submitted and considered. Being in a position to meet face-to-face, to clearly characterize the concerns underlying this action, but also to explain the careful steps taken to avoid unintended consequences, reduces the risk of misunderstanding. And whether we agree or disagree on a particular issue, reducing misunderstandings on new policy areas is in the interest of both countries. The importance of having a channel to discuss each other's economic approach and sharing technical assessments of global trends extends to financial policy broadly, including to financial regulation and supervision and efforts to preserve financial stability. After all, the financial stability of the United States and China depends on much more than cross-border holdings of debt and equity securities. The essential interconnections in the global financial system can be subtle or indirect, and the financial centers in our two countries, including Hong Kong, where we are meeting now, are disproportionately large and central nodes. Financial stability, and the conversations among policymakers that underlie it, is a global public good that brings important benefits for the United States, for China, and for the rest of the world. After the global financial crisis of 2008, the G20 - a group that includes both China and the United States - established the Financial Stability Board, or FSB. It did so in recognition that maintaining financial stability requires both high-level political support and broad-based technical collaboration to identify vulnerabilities that could travel from one corner of the financial system to another, and to take coordinated steps to address those vulnerabilities before they result in a broader crisis. Countries should invest in a baseline level of working relationships with their international financial counterparts. When crises happen, everyone is better off if regulators and other policymakers already know their counterparts and have an expectation of where and how to engage. As a complement to multilateral efforts, I believe bilateral discussions between officials responsible for financial stability, supervision, and regulation in the United States and China remain important, particularly given the size of our financial systems. Take banking, for example. Hong Kong's and China's banking assets relative to their respective GDPs are among the highest globally. The United States has the second largest banking sector in the world by assets. Together, the United States and China account for over 40 percent of global banking assets. Of the 30 global systemically important banks, or G-SIBs, eight are headquartered in the United States and four are headquartered in China. The recent stress at Credit Suisse, and its subsequent acquisition by UBS, should remind us of the critical importance of global coordination for the regulation and supervision of G-SIBs, in both going-concern and gone-concern settings. It is important for official sector authorities to discuss and refine recovery and resolution regimes, which are a pillar of post-2008 policy reforms and reflect a complex mix of legal, regulatory, and financial measures to minimize disruption to the financial system. The United States has held regular engagements with the United Kingdom and the European Union on identifying challenges with the resolution of a cross-border G-SIB for over a decade, and the knowledge-sharing that occurs not only improved our readiness for cross-border resolution but also improved our domestic capacity for large-bank resolution. Treasury is considering broadening these types of exchanges in order to include many more countries that are the home or host authority of G-SIBs, including Japan, Canada, and Switzerland. If we do in fact stand up something of this nature, China's participation would be valuable to all participants, including China itself. Earlier this year, the United States also experienced the failure of several regional banks. We took decisive and necessary actions to shore up public confidence in the banking system. Following these failures, the Federal Reserve Board and FDIC conducted self-assessments of their oversight of certain failed banks, which will help inform ways to improve our domestic bank regulation and supervision framework. Further, work continues at the international level to better understand the international dimension of the recent bank failures. We do not view this ongoing work, which is crucial to addressing specific issues, as calling into question the banking and resolution framework that was put into place following the global financial crisis. Indeed, these frameworks may well have prevented recent incidents from leading to broader stresses in the banking system. Meanwhile, Chinese authorities are considering substantive changes to their domestic banking framework. Last year, China published a draft of a new Financial Stability Law which is, in our understanding, the first law in China intended to formalize a process for the resolution of systemic risks at financial institutions, rather than dealing with these incidents on a case-by-case basis. With both of our jurisdictions considering changes to domestic banking supervision and regulation in the pursuit of domestic financial stability, it would be mutually beneficial to share information on our evolving frameworks. Also consider non-bank financial institutions, or NBFI, which form critical parts of both the U.S. and Chinese economies. NBFI includes segments of the financial system including money market funds, insurance companies, hedge funds, private equity, and venture capital. It tends to be one of the most innovative parts of countries' domestic financial sectors, but also tends to be an area where concentrated risk accumulates. Relative to banking, which has generally received more supervisory and regulatory attention over a longer period of time, the comparative complexity, opacity, and lack of data on NBFI makes oversight more difficult. Addressing vulnerabilities in NBFI has been a priority in recent years, and the U.S. Treasury is committed to the FSB's ambitious workplan to enhance the resilience of the sector. For example, in November 2022, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission published proposed amendments to its current rules for open-end funds focused on addressing liquidity risk. And in July the SEC published its final money market funds rule, which will strengthen liquidity and reporting requirements. Treasury and the Financial Stability Oversight Council, chaired by Secretary Yellen, is also prioritizing addressing risks to U.S. financial stability posed by hedge funds. The Council has reestablished its Hedge Fund Working Group, which has developed an interagency risk-monitoring framework to assess hedge fund-related risks to U.S. financial stability. Though total global hedge fund assets are only around $7 trillion, some hedge funds pursue highly leveraged strategies that can pose a significant financial stability risk. Chinese hedge fund assets have been growing quickly, now accounting for close to 15 percent of all global hedge fund assets according to the latest available statistics. In addition to being able to share best practices developed for our own domestic oversight of the hedge fund space, we could both benefit from a better understanding of each other's approaches on NBFI, in part, because NBFI is another source of substantial, but difficult to trace economic interlinkages that have historically led to financial stability risks. Take, for example, the recent reduction by Chinese authorities in the minimum margin financing requirement ratio for securities investors from 100 percent to 80 percent. On the one hand, alongside the recent growth in domestic hedge fund assets, this could represent a new domestic vulnerability. On the other hand, a 100 percent minimum margin financing requirement for all equity securities is far higher than in most other countries, including what is generally required by U.S regulators. U.S. financial regulators would benefit from a better understanding of the intent of the policy shift, and given substantial experience working with lower margin requirements, can lend expertise to Chinese regulators as they update their risk modeling to account for the likely increase in financial leverage. Both banks and non-bank financial institutions carry key exposures to real estate, an asset class commonly identified as posing among the most salient risks to current global financial stability. We are closely monitoring vulnerabilities in the U.S. commercial real estate (CRE) market. These pressures are elevated due in part to the after-effects of the Covid-19 pandemic - which has particularly reduced the demand for office properties. CRE analysts forecast substantial price declines for office space in the coming years, and according to some private data providers, we have already seen a double-digit decline in broader CRE prices. Banks hold an estimated 40 percent of the aggregate $4.5 trillion of CRE loans outstanding in the United States, with exposures concentrated in small and midsize banks. The Chinese banking and non-bank system also have considerable exposures to real estate, with more than a quarter of total bank loans tied to the property sector and approximately 5 percent of the trust sector's $3 trillion in assets directly linked to real estate. This year's continued slowdown in Chinese property sales, combined with Chinese property developers' high leverage, have strained some developers' ability to repay their debts, with possible financial spillovers. We have, for example, seen recent stress in some trust companies, which can have opaque ties to local governments. These vulnerabilities are emerging against the backdrop of a slower-than-expected economic recoveryamarked by both near-term growth headwinds and long-term structural challenges. This situation warrants close monitoring, especially as authorities balance the need to prevent a renewed buildup in debt against broader financial stability concerns. Because of the significance of property investments across the financial sectors of both economies, a shared understanding of these issues would be useful for financial regulators. Direct comparisons are not the goal nor likely to be useful given significant differences in domestic exposures, regulations, and institutional features. Yet it is precisely these distinct features that can make regulatory and supervisory exchange useful. Chinese regulators would be better able to understand the challenges facing the U.S. CRE sector since the beginning of the pandemic, including the geographic distribution and cross-sectoral implications of those risks. Similarly, though Secretary Yellen has noted that the U.S. economy is well-placed to withstand spillovers from China's economic slowdown and there are limited direct financial interlinkages between our financial systems, U.S. regulators would still benefit from a more thorough understanding of Chinese real estate conditions and of the recent measures taken to stimulate housing demand and to ease developers' access to financing. And beyond public-sector regulation of financial risk, it is also important for efficiency and stability that private investors have access to the information they need to conduct proper risk assessments. We are pleased that the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board has had complete access to inspect registered public accounting firms headquartered in mainland China and Hong Kong since the signing of the Statement of Protocol with China last year. Oversight is critical to ensure that investors receive informative, accurate, and independent audit reports. But it is concerning that the Chinese government recently halted publication of some micro and macro data and have raided some corporate due diligence firms. Such actions may lead some companies to avoid certain investments in China - and such reduced transparency in the world's second largest economy can increase risks and challenges for investors and policymakers globally. It is important for U.S. and Chinese regulators to be able to candidly discuss such concerns. Next, consider financial market innovation. Digital assets and infrastructures built using new technologies may increasingly affect the evolution of commerce and finance across borders. Both the United States and China have an interest in fostering responsible innovation in this area and protecting their consumers, financial stability, and market integrity. In 2022, President Biden signed an Executive Order on the responsible development of digital assets which outlined a whole of government approach to achieve these objectives. The United States and China have also cooperated in the context of the FSB on development of the recently published high-level principles for regulation, supervision, and oversight of crypto-assets and global stablecoin arrangements. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority and Securities and Futures Commission are also pursuing a regulatory regime for crypto-assets to mitigate risks while promoting potential benefits of innovation. In other parts of the digital asset ecosystem, official-sector activity may extend beyond regulation. For example, public sector authorities are experimenting and investing in new technology to support faster, cheaper, more transparent and more accessible payment systems. Robust standards in this area are essential - not just for monetary policy, financial stability and integrity, and the safety and soundness of financial institutions, but also related to issues like user privacy, financial inclusion, and private sector innovation. The United States believes the digital future of money should be grounded in transparency, sound economic governance, strong cyber-security and data protections, respect for individual rights, and the rule of law. We will continue to be transparent about our plans for the responsible development of digital assets and payments consistent with these values. Finally, it is important that the United States and China communicate and coordinate on our approach to addressing climate-related financial risk, a key priority for Treasury under the Biden administration. In the United States, in China, and across the globe, climate-related phenomena, including warming temperatures, droughts, wildfires, pollution, and intensifying storms are already imposing significant costs on the public and on the economy. Further, the U.S. Financial Stability Oversight Council in 2021 identified climate change as an emerging and increasing threat to U.S. financial stability. To help financial institutions in managing these risks, U.S. authorities are considering how to incorporate climate risk into regulatory and supervisory practices and into the monitoring of financial stability. At Treasury and throughout the U.S. government, we have supported data gap projects, scenario analysis exercises, and other domestic and multilateral efforts. Treasury has also long emphasized the importance of climate-related disclosures for protecting investors and giving them the information they need to price firm-level climate risk. Internationally, we have promoted the interoperability of climate-related disclosures to minimize unnecessary market fragmentation and reporting burdens. The United States and China have both productively engaged on this front by, for example, participating in the Jurisdictional Working Group of the International Sustainability Standards Board, or ISSB. Further, Hong Kong regulators are in the process of developing a roadmap on evaluating the ISSB's standards and the SEC's rulemaking process to enhance and standardize climate-related disclosure for investors is ongoing. With an ISSB office open in Beijing, we remain interested in China's potential next steps on disclosure as well. Dealing with climate-related financial risk is a global challenge and work is still at an early stage. China and the United States must engage on this work with each other and with other jurisdictions. In fact, Treasury and our counterparts at the People's Bank of China enjoy a productive working relationship as co-chairs of the G20's Sustainable Finance Working Group, or SFWG. Together as leaders of the SFWG, the United States and China foster constructive, technical discussions that promote international policy coordination to integrate sustainability and climate considerations into global financial systems. We work together to help advance best practices to align global private capital flows with climate goals, including those outlined in the Paris Agreement. The United States and China have the largest two economies in the world, supported by the largest two financial systems in the world. As Secretary Yellen has said, negotiating the contours of engagement between great powers is difficult. This challenge will differ across topics, but financial regulation and supervision strikes me as one natural area primed for progress. We have serious concerns and differences that we must acknowledge and deal with. But both of our countries are linked through our efforts on financial stability, bank and non-bank oversight, resilience and investor protection in the face of innovative financial technologies, and the financial implications of climate change. Discussions of financial policy, bilaterally and multilaterally, is an important component of responsible economic relations that can benefit the United States, China, and the rest of the world. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Xi meets Cambodian prime minister People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 09:22, September 16, 2023 BEIJING, Sept. 15 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet at the Great Hall of the People on Friday. Xi pointed out that Prime Minister Hun Manet chose China as the destination for his first bilateral visit after taking office, which fully demonstrates the great importance the new Cambodian government attaches to consolidating and developing China-Cambodia friendship. China and Cambodia are ironclad friends, Xi said, adding that over the past 65 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, the two sides have always maintained a high degree of mutual trust, treated each other as equals, achieved win-win results, and firmly supported each other in safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests. Xi stressed that China firmly supports Cambodia in exploring a development path suited to its national conditions, and stands ready to maintain regular strategic communication with Cambodia and deepen the exchange of governance experience. He said the two sides should make good use of the mechanism of the intergovernmental coordinating committee and implement the new action plan for building a China-Cambodia community with a shared future. Xi also called on both sides to enrich the China-Cambodia "Diamond Hexagon" cooperation framework, jointly build the "Industrial Development Corridor" and the "Fish and Rice Corridor," and promote the early implementation of relevant key cooperation projects. China is willing to carry out regular law enforcement and security cooperation with Cambodia and continue to crack down on cross-border crimes such as online gambling and telecom fraud, said Xi. He said the two sides should continue to host activities to celebrate the "China-Cambodia Friendship Year" and expand cooperation in the fields of youth, localities, education, tourism and health so that China-Cambodia friendship will bring more benefits to the two peoples. Xi pointed out that no matter how the international and regional situation may change, China is always Cambodia's most reliable friend and staunch supporter, and that China stands ready to join hands with Cambodia to uphold international fairness and justice and safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries. Hun Manet said that he chose China as the destination for his first official visit to show that the new Cambodian government will continue to firmly pursue a friendly policy toward China and further carry forward the ironclad friendship between Cambodia and China. The prime minister said Cambodia will abide by the one-China principle, firmly support China in safeguarding its core interests, and support the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by President Xi. Cambodia appreciates China's long-term strong support and assistance for Cambodia's economic and social development, and is willing to work with China to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, deepen Belt and Road cooperation, and push for further development of bilateral cooperation in industry, agriculture, investment, culture and other fields under the "Diamond Hexagon" framework, Hun Manet said. Hun Manet noted that the Cambodian side is willing to closely cooperate with China in regional and international affairs to push the bilateral ties to a new height. Wang Yi was present at the meeting. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China Defense Minister Faces Investigation as Speculation Grows By William Yang September 16, 2023 Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu has disappeared from public view for more than two weeks and his unexplained absence has triggered speculation about his fate. Analysts say Li's disappearance, which follows a series of abrupt purges of top-level officials in recent months, reflects Chinese President Xi Jinping's desire to strengthen his control over China's military. "This incident shows the People's Liberation Army may be in an unstable state and Xi might hope to create a high level of obedience within the military by abruptly replacing top-level officials like Li," Ying Yu Lin, an expert on Chinese military affairs at Tamkang University in Taiwan, told VOA in a phone interview. Li, who became China's defense minister in March, made his last public appearance Aug. 29, when he delivered a keynote speech at the third annual China-Africa Peace and Security Forum. The Washington Post reported Friday that Li is under investigation for "corruption" and will likely be removed from his post, citing two unnamed American officials. Reuters reported that the investigation is related to the procurement of military equipment without specifying the types of equipment involved in the case. Beijing has avoided answering questions related to Li's whereabouts. During the daily press briefing Friday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said she had no information about Li's case when asked. Friday readouts from the Foreign Ministry's daily press briefings do not mention Li's case. Currently, Li is still listed as China's defense minister and a member of the Chinese Communist Party's Central Military Commission. Part of a broader shakeup? Experts say while it is not unprecedented for high-level officials to be investigated and charged with corruption, Li's case, which follows the leadership shakeup at the People's Liberation Army's Rocket Force and the abrupt removal of former Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang in July, suggests a large-scale anti-corruption campaign may be under way within the Chinese Communist Party. "It suggests to me that a major round of anti-corruption campaigns is underway in Beijing," Brian Hart, a fellow with the China Power Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, told VOA by email. Since becoming party general secretary in 2012, Xi has made the anti-corruption campaign a hallmark of his leadership, launching large-scale purges in different sectors and, in some cases, removing political opponents. With its long history of struggling to contain corruption scandals, the People's Liberation Army has been a target of Xi's anti-corruption campaign. In Hart's view, Li's disappearance and the purging of top commanders of the PLA Rocket Force suggest corruption remains a problem that Xi has not been able to fully eradicate. "Li rose through the ranks through the PLA's procurement system, which has always been a major epicenter for corruption," Hart said in a written response. "It's worth noting that the current senior Chairman of the Central Military Commission, Zhang Youxia, also led the procurement system before Li, so if he is not put under investigation, it could signal that he is too big or too close to Xi to take down." Throughout his career, Li has been known as an expert in weapons development and he has long been in charge of the PLA's acquisition of rockets and other advanced weapons. And, like Xi, Li is also the son of a veteran of the Mao Zedong era, according to Professor Lin from Tamkang University. Damaging China's international credibility Apart from strengthening his control over China's military, some observers think Xi's abrupt purges of top-level officials may also damage China's international credibility and reduce other countries' confidence in Beijing. "While other countries may be dealing with a certain minister from China, that person could be replaced next month or in a few years," said Professor Lin. "This may increase other countries' distrust in Beijing during future interactions." According to Reuters, several Vietnamese officials said Li was pulled out of a bilateral gathering on defense cooperation between Vietnam and China last week due to unexplained "health reasons." The incident is similar to the removal of former Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang in July, during which Chinese authorities claimed health issues were behind Qin's extended absence from public view. Since the defense minister and foreign minister are both public-facing officials, some experts say the unexplained removal of Qin and the disappearance of Li will damage the credibility of China's governance model. "The recent developments are hurting China's claim of the superiority of its governance system," Alfred Wu, an expert on Chinese politics at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy in Singapore, told VOA in a phone interview. "Xi claimed that China's governance model could become an alternative to the U.S.-dominant world order, but when they keep removing top-level officials abruptly, which country would like to learn this from China?" Impact on party, military While recent purges of top officials may affect China's international image, most experts think the impact on the Chinese military and the Communist Party will be limited. "I don't think the removal of these top officials will create any chilling effect on others," Wu said. "Officials who haven't been affected by the purge will treat these incidents as a signal that they have more space to operate," he added. "Under Xi's one-man rule, officials need to compete to get better positions under the blessing of Xi." Even though Li's disappearance will not directly affect the PLA's operations and capabilities, Hart said he thinks the incident may reduce confidence in the PLA internally. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China says its camps are closed, but Uyghurs remain under threat Reports from Xinjiang suggest persecution against members of the mostly Muslim community continues. By Adile Ablet, Short Hoshur and Bahram Sintash for RFA Uyghur 2023.09.17 -- In Xinjiang, questions about disappeared family members remain unanswered and reports of dubious arrests continue to emerge despite claims by the Chinese government that a widely condemned internment campaign targeting Uyghurs has ended. The Chinese government has said the detention camps in China's far western region were vocational training centers where the "students" voluntarily learned new skills. In 2019, the Chinese Communist Party said the attendees had graduated and most had found good jobs. But RFA Uyghur has confirmed that detentions continue, and satellite images reviewed by the service indicate that some sites previously identified as internment facilities remain intact. Many people rounded up by police remain missing. "Uyghurs are still very much living in a state of brokenness," said Maya Wang, associate director of the Asia division at Human Rights Watch. An estimated 1.8 million Uyghurs and Kazakhs have been allegedly sent to the camps. The information gathered by RFA supports recent reports by Agence France-Presse and other news outlets that Uyghurs continue to face widespread persecution, despite years of international pressure on China to ease the conditions against the group and other Muslim communities in Xinjiang. Friends and family members have reported to RFA that their relatives are being held for crimes never fully explained by Chinese authorities. A 45-year-old Uyghur man named Qurban Nur was held at a camp in Seriqbuya township in Kashgar for two years and two months before being released last spring, local officials told RFA. A village security officer who acknowledged Nur's detention told RFA that people are "continuously coming in" to the facility. RFA has also learned of a camp still operating in the city of Korla, within the Bayingolin prefecture, northeast of Kashgar. Two men reportedly in their mid-20s - Burham Hizir and Payzulla Rahman - have been sent there since 2021, local officials said. RFA is not identifying its sources in Xinjiang because they were not authorized to speak to the press. International condemnation The United States has called the crackdown campaign, which reached its peak in 2017-18, a genocide because the goal seems to be to wipe away a people's traditions and culture through repression. The U.S. bans cotton imports from Xinjiang out of concern that Uyghurs are subjected to forced labor by authorities, in some cases after having completed their vocational training. A 2022 report from the United Nations high commissioner for human rights found that "serious human rights violations" had been committed against Uyghurs and other Muslims in Xinjiang. Allegations of torture, forced medical treatments and rape were credible, the report found. In its 131-page response, China said the report was based on "disinformation and lies fabricated by anti-China forces." China has in the past year invited journalists to visit facilities identified as detention camps that apparently had been repurposed as schools and quarantine centers. Journalists from Sky News in the United Kingdom and the Washington Post in the United States who toured the region last year said the crackdown had eased but that mistreatment of Uyghurs and other Muslims remains a problem. Some people caught in the mass reeducation campaign appear to have been transferred from the camps to prisons to serve out long sentences for minor offenses. In its report, the U.N. human rights office noted that even if Chinese claims that aaits camp system had been dismantled are true, the "laws and policies that underpin it remain in place" and lead to increased imprisonment. Some low-security camps appear to have been closed, but the "capacity for high security detention and higher security prisons has increased significantly," said Adrian Zenz, a German academic whose research exposed the breadth of the campaign against Uyghurs. It's difficult to assess the true situation in Xinjiang given that Uyghurs are unable to freely communicate with outsiders, Zenz said. And there's little expectation for change. Chinese leader Xi Jinping reiterated support for the Chinese Communist Party's policies in the region as a means to promote social stability in a speech last month in Urumqi, Xinjiang's capital. Abandoned homes Agence France-Presse reporters this month visited some of the homes in Yarkant County in southern Xinjiang that Zenz's research identified as the addresses of Uyghurs allegedly gathered up in China's ideological reeducation effort. They found that the residences were locked or appear to have been abandoned. Efforts to investigate further, however, were blocked by locals who ran the reporters off, including by waiving farm implements. The journalists also visited sites identified by researchers as detention camps and found some that appear to be still operating, although they do not identify where they are located. "Several had staffed guard towers, security cameras and high walls topped with barbed wire," the article states. The Australian Strategic Policy Institute, a Canberra-based think tank, identified in a September 2020 analysis 11 sites in Yarkant County as detention facilities, which includes jails and re-education camps. The locations still had external walls and six had watchtowers as of 2022, according to an analysis of Google Earth satellite images by RFA Uyghur. "The concentration camps have not disappeared," said Bahtiyar Omer, director of the Uyghur Transitional Justice Database, a Norway-based group. The group says more than 12,600 Uyghurs are being held in camps in Xinjiang. Maya Wang of the Human Rights Watch said "forced assimilation" remains at the heart of the CCP policy in Xinjiang. "Uyghurs continue to be fearful, silenced and persecuted for being Uyghurs," she said. Edited by Jim Snyder and Mat Pennington. 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 September not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Readout of National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's Meeting with Chinese Communist Party Politburo Member, Director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission, and Foreign Minister Wang Yi September 17, 2023 National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met on September 16-17 with Chinese Communist Party Politburo Member, Director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission, and Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Malta. This meeting was part of ongoing efforts to maintain open lines of communication and responsibly manage the relationship. The two sides had candid, substantive, and constructive discussions, building on the engagements between President Biden and President Xi in Bali, Indonesia in November 2022. This meeting follows on recent high-level engagements, including between National Security Advisor Sullivan and Director Wang Yi in May in Vienna as well as meetings between Secretary Blinken, Secretary Yellen, Special Envoy Kerry, Secretary Raimondo, and their counterparts in Beijing over the last several months. The two sides discussed key issues in the U.S.-China bilateral relationship, global and regional security issues, Russia's war against Ukraine, and cross-Strait issues, among other topics. The United States noted the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. The two sides committed to maintain this strategic channel of communication and to pursue additional high-level engagement and consultations in key areas between the United States and the People's Republic of China in the coming months. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hypocritical? Christening of new North Korean submarine raises eyebrows In a country that cracks down on superstitions, the ceremony is seen as 'two-faced.' By Ahn Chang Gyu for RFA Korean 2023.09.14 -- With supreme leader Kim Jong Un looking on, the foreign minister smashed a bottle of champagne against the hull of North Korea's latest nuclear submarine, prompting the crowd of sailors and factory workers to erupt in thunderous cheers and applause. But the reaction to the smashed bottle among the general public was less than smashing. Many North Koreans saw the ceremony, involving Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui, as puzzling and even hypocritical in a country that suppresses superstitious activities - which is how the submarine christening appeared to many. "Everyone was surprised to see the female foreign minister come forward and break a liquor bottle by hitting it against the hull," a resident from the northeastern city of Rason told RFA Korean on condition of anonymity for security reasons. "The authorities have been cracking down on the simple rituals of fishermen performing ancestral rites and pouring alcohol to ensure the safe navigation of boats, defining them as superstitious practices," he said. North Korean fishermen have traditional ceremonies whenever they take a new boat out to sea or when they repair an old boat, and sometimes they involve elements of superstition that have been passed down over generations. Those rituals, which can involve a pig's head and copious amounts of alcohol, are, like the submarine christening, meant only to wish for the safety of ships at sea, the resident said. Punishing 'capitalist' behavior Though anti-superstition laws have long been on the books they were not strictly enforced all the time, but the recent passing of a new "anti-capitalist" law caused authorities to be less tolerant of superstitious activities. The 2020 Anti-Reactionary Thought and Culture Act, is aimed at preserving the purity of North Korean socialist ideals by harshly punishing people for watching foreign media, speaking like a "South Korean," wearing "capitalist" fashion, or even dancing like a "capitalist." The law does not specifically mention superstitions and the fishermen are emulating their own ancestors rather than "capitalist" fishermen in the South, but authorities have interpreted their activity as "reactionary ideology" brought in from the outside. Fishermen have therefore been secretly holding these ceremonies under cover of night to avoid being punished. "I couldn't help but be surprised that a ceremony that the authorities say is a punishable superstitious act was held in front of Kim Jong Un," the resident said, adding that the small ceremonies fall under Article 256, a different law that forbids fortune telling, divination, and exorcism as superstitious acts. According to that law, punishments can range from "up to a year" in a disciplinary labor facility to "a minimum of three to seven years" depending on how serious the act is. "After seeing the reports of the submarine launch ceremony, fishermen and other residents are saying that the authorities are two-faced, and they should no longer have to do their own ceremonies in secret," the resident said. It was the first time that a ship christening was reported in state media, a resident of Rason's surrounding North Hamgyong province told RFA on condition of anonymity to speak freely. "It is deeply contradictory for the authorities to tell residents not to believe in superstitions and not engage in superstitious behavior, but then to do something similar [themselves.]" he said. "People are mocking the authorities by asking, 'Do [the authorities] believe in superstitions, too? Is it okay to do superstitious acts in front of Kim Jong Un?'" Translated by Claire Shinyoung Oh Lee. Edited by Eugene Whong and Malcolm Foster. Copyright 1998-2016, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content September not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Defence joins international effort to enforce sanctions on North Korea Issued by Defence Media 16 September 2023 Defence has conducted air surveillance of illegal activity in North Korea as part of an international effort to eliminate nuclear weapons in the country. As part of Operation Argos, Defence deployed two Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft to enforce United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions on the rogue nuclear state. Operating from Kadena Air Base in Japan, the P-8A Poseidon aircraft conducted airborne surveillance to monitor and deter illegal ship-to-ship transfers of sanctioned goods in the region. Since 2018, Australia has deployed RAAF maritime patrol aircraft on 12 occasions and Royal Australian Navy vessels nine times to support the UNSC sanctions. Quotes attributable to Chief of Joint Operations, Lieutenant General Greg Bilton: "Operation Argos reinforces Australia's commitment to nuclear non-proliferation and directly contributes to maintaining the rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region alongside our partner nations. "Australia remains committed to enforcing UN Security Council sanctions and our own sanctions against North Korea. "This operation is Australia's contribution to a multinational effort, alongside Canada, France, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States, all of which conduct operations in support of UN Security Council resolutions." Quotes attributable to Commanding Officer No. 11 Squadron, Wing Commander Adam Saber: "Since the first Operation Argos deployment back in 2018, and on every subsequent 11 Squadron rotation, our teams have delivered a major contribution to regional security and stability. "Though Operation Argos is conducted a considerable distance from Australia, the importance of maintaining regional stability cannot be understated, particularly noting the interconnected nature of global affairs. The range and speed of the P-8A makes it an ideal platform to conduct these long-range operations. "The P-8A is world-leading maritime patrol aircraft and provides a versatile capability for Australia's contribution to Operation Argos. "I am exceptionally proud of the 11 Squadron aviators who routinely deploy as part of this operation, and it is their dedication and professionalism that underpins the successes of each deployment." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Visits Komsomolsk-on-Amur Yuri Gagarin Aviation Plant Korean Central News Agency of DPRK Pyongyang, September 16 (KCNA) -- Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, arrived in Komsomolsk-on-Amur, a major industrial city in the Far Eastern Region of the Russian Federation, to visit the Komsomolsk-on-Amur Yuri Gagarin Aviation Plant. Displayed in electric signs in various places of the City of Komsomolsk-on-Amur were letters reading "Welcome Comrade President of the State Affairs of the DPRK" and the city was in a warm welcoming atmosphere to greet Comrade Kim Jong Un . The respected Comrade Kim Jong Un arrived at Komsomolsk-on-Amur Railway Station on Friday morning. He was courteously greeted at the station by Alexandr Kozlov, minister of Natural Resources and Ecology, Mikhail Degtyarev, governor of the Khabarovsk Territory Administration, and Alexandr Zhornik, mayor of Komsomolsk-on-Amur of Russia. Russian women in national costume presented him with bread and salt according to a Russian custom. He was presented with a fragrant bouquet by a lovely child. He warmly waved back to the Russian children fluttering the national flags of the two countries. Being guided by Russian leading officials, he headed for the Komsomolsk-on-Amur Yuri Gagarin Aviation Plant. Accompanying him were Choe Son Hui, foreign minister of the DPRK, Marshals of the Korean People's Army (KPA) Ri Pyong Chol and Pak Jong Chon, Kang Sun Nam, minister of National Defence of the DPRK, O Su Yong and Pak Thae Song, secretaries of the C.C., WPK, General Kim Kwang Hyok, commander of the Air Force of the KPA, and other senior officials and suite members. The Komsomolsk-on-Amur Yuri Gagarin Aviation Plant, founded in 1934, made a great contribution to defeating fascism during the past Great Patriotic War by producing various kinds of planes, including long-range bombers. It is the largest Su-type fighter jet manufacturer in Russia and a pivotal base of the Russian defence industry and air-transport service industry producing various fighters, including the fifth-generation fighter jet Su-57, and airliners. Kim Jong Un was greeted at the plant by Denis Mantrov, deputy prime minister and concurrently minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation, Yuri Slusari, general director of the Russian Air Production Complex, and Alexandr Pekarsh, manager of the plant. A woman employee presented a bouquet to Kim Jong Un in welcome of his visit to the plant. Employees of the plant warmly greeted him with boundless respect and reverence. Being briefed by the manager of the plant, Kim Jong Un went round several places of the plant, including the designing institute, fighter jet fuselage assembly shop, wing production shop, painting shop and airliner assembly shop. Looking at the photos of Chairman Kim Jong Il who visited the plant 21 years ago, displayed at worksites of the plant, he recollected with deep reverence the brilliant career and exploits of the Chairman who contributed undying devotion and efforts to the development of the DPRK-Russia friendship. He met test pilots at the fighter jet fuselage assembly shop and got on Su-57 to hear a detailed explanation of the technical specifications and flight performance of the fifth-generation fighter jet. He mounted an airliner produced by the plant to learn about its performance and watched the test flight of a Su-35 fighter jet. He highly appreciated the officials, scientists, technicians and workers of the plant for making a great contribution to the development of the country's air industry by achieving excellent successes in production with highly advanced technology and strong mental power. Saying that he was deeply impressed by the rich independent potential and modernity of the Russian aircraft manufacturing industry and its ceaseless enterprising efforts toward new goals, he sincerely hoped that the plant would make sustained development by achieving higher production growth in the future. He had a souvenir photo taken with the accompanying officials of the two countries in front of Su-27 and Su-30 fighter jets on display in the compound of the plant. Yuri Slusari hosted a luncheon in welcome of the respected Comrade Kim Jong Un 's visit to the plant. The deputy prime minister and concurrently minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation and the manager of the plant, in their speeches at the luncheon, expressed deep thanks to Kim Jong Un for highly appreciating the production success of the plant, saying that his visit injected vitality into the development and production of new-generation aircraft. Saying that Kim Jong Un added another glorious page to the history of development of the DPRK-Russia relations by visiting the time-honored plant, Ri Pyong Chol in his reply speech expressed the belief that the officials and employees of the plant would make greater contributions to strengthening the country's defence capability under the leadership of President Putin. The luncheon proceeded in a warm and amicable atmosphere. After the luncheon, Kim Jong Un expressed thanks to the officials of the plant for their kind guidance and hospitality and left his autograph in the visitor's book - "Witnessing the rapid development of Russia's aviation technology and its gigantic potential 2023. 9. 15 Kim Jong Un ." He was presented with souvenir gifts by the deputy prime minister and concurrently minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation, the governor of the Khabarovsk Territory Administration and the general director of the Russian Air Production Complex. Before leaving the plant, he met and congratulated the test pilot on his admirable flight and had a significant picture taken with him with a Su-35 fighter jet for a background. Kim Jong Un expressed sincere regard for Russia's aviation technology undergoing rapid development, outpacing the outside potential threats, and wished the plant success in its future development. That afternoon, he left for the next destination, being given a warm send-off by Russian officials. -0- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korean leader checks out Russia's bombers, hypersonic missiles Iran Press TV Saturday, 16 September 2023 10:26 AM North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has checked out Russia's nuclear-capable strategic bombers, hypersonic missiles and warships as part of his visit to the country that has angered the United States. Kim on Saturday visited Knevichi airfield, nearly 50 km from the Pacific city of Vladivostok, and was received by Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. Shoigu showed Kim the strategic bombers, the Tu-160, Tu-95 and Tu-22M3, which are capable of carrying nuclear weapons, according to Russia's defense ministry. "It can fly from Moscow to Japan and then back again," Shoigu told Kim of one aircraft. Kim also viewed the MiG-31I supersonic interceptor aircraft equipped with hypersonic "Kinzhal" missiles, which are capable of carrying nuclear or conventional warheads. The air-launched ballistic missile Kinzhal, or dagger, has a reported range of 1,500 to 2,000 km, and can carry a payload of 480 kg. It may fly at up to 10 times the speed of sound (12,000 kph) Kim later inspected the warship of Russia's Pacific fleet in Vladivostok. The visit came a day after Kim visited a Russian fighter jet factory that is under Western sanctions. The North Korea leader arrived in Russia earlier this week for a meeting with President Vladimir Putin. The two leaders discussed the war in Ukraine and the expansion of mutual cooperation during their meeting on Wednesday. Senior officials of South Korea and the US claimed on Friday that military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow is a serious violation of UN sanctions. The US and South Korea fear that Moscow would give Kim access to some of Russia's sensitive missile and other technology in exchange for receiving arms for the war in Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that there had not been a plan to ink any formal pact during the visit. Russian diplomats have said Washington had no right to lecture Moscow after the US had sent weapons to its allies, including Ukraine and South Korea, and expanded military drills near the Korean peninsula. Moscow and Pyongyang have further enhanced ties since the start of the war in Ukraine last year. Kim has described the war in Ukraine as a US "proxy war" to destroy Russia. He has condemned Western military aid to Kiev and blamed the "hegemonic policy" and "high-handedness" of the United States and the West for the conflict. Russia began what it calls a special military operation in Ukraine on February 24, 2022. Moscow said the operation was aimed at defending Ukraine's pro-Russia population in Donetsk and Luhansk, eastern Ukrainian regions, against persecution by Kiev. Moscow has frequently warned that a continued supply of Western arms and military equipment for the Ukrainian military would only prolong the war. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kim Jong-un writes a review in guest book of frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov in Primorsky Krai 16.09.2023 Kim Jong-un left a review in the book of honoured guests of the frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov in Vladivostok and received a warship model as a gift. Kim Jong-un, the leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, was invited to the mess room after viewing the Pacific Fleet frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov, where he was asked to sign the guest book. The North Korean leader also received a commemorative gift - a model of a Russian warship. The frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov, which was chosen to be shown to the DPRK leader, underwent deep modernisation at the enterprises of the Russian Far East several years ago, which clearly demonstrates the capabilities of the shipbuilding industry of the region, as well as the reliability, long service life, and significant modernisation potential of Russian naval hardware. Department for Media Affairs and Information NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kim Jong-un observes new armament of frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov in Vladivostok 16.09.2023 Missile and artillery systems of the frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov were demonstrated to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, who visited Vladivostok. ? Uran anti-ship missile systems and Kalibr universal cruise missile systems, as well as a 100-mm A-190 automatic artillery system were demonstrated to Kim Jong-un, the leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, during his visit to the Pacific Fleet frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov. ? Admiral Nikolai Yevmenov, Commander-in-Chief of the Navy, told the North Korean leader and Russian Defence Minister about the specifications of the Russian modern sea-based missile and artillery weapons that the frigate received in modernisation. ? These systems considerably increase the ship's combat capability and qualitatively set it apart from other Project 1155 large anti-submarine ships. With this armament the frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov is capable not only of effectively fighting modern enemy submarines, but also of engaging the surface enemy at long distances, as well as of delivering precision strikes against targets located close to the coast and at significant distances from it. Department for Media Affairs and Information NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korean leader Kim Jong-un gets a close look at new Tu-214 aircraft 16.09.2023 Kim Jong-un, the leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, became acquainted with the Russian Tu-214 long-range aircraft while touring the aviation facilities at the Knevichi airfield. The aircraft's crew commander reported to the North Korean leader on the capabilities, performance specifications, and reliability of the aircraft. The Tu-214 aircraft is designed to carry passengers and is equipped with modern, highly economical Russian-made engines. Department for Media Affairs and Information NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address DPRK leader visits Knevichi airfield to get familiar with Russian strategic aircraft 16.09.2023 Leader of Democratic People's Republic of Korea Kim Jong-un saw a Tu-160 supersonic strategic bomber, a Tu-95MS turboprop strategic bomber, and a Tu-22M3 long-range supersonic missile bomber at the Knevichi airfield. These aircraft make up the Russian Federation's air component of its strategic nuclear forces. ? Lieutenant General Sergei Kobylash, Commander of the Russian Aerospace Forces's Long Range Aviation, gave a report on the features, armament, and combat capabilities of these strategic missile carriers. Department for Media Affairs and Information NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korean leader Kim Jong-un arrives at Knevichi airfield 16.09.2023 Chairman of State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea Kim Jong-un has arrived at Vladivostok's Knevichi airfield. Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation General of the Army Sergei Shoigu met the North Korean leader. Chairman of State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea Kim Jong-un was greeted by the guard of honour of the Preobrazhensky Regiment. At the Knevichi airport, samples of cutting-edge aircraft from the Russian Aerospace Forces are on display for the DPRK leader to see. Department for Media Affairs and Information NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Visits Vladivostok of Russian Federation Korean Central News Agency of DPRK Pyongyang, September 17 (KCNA) -- Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), visited Vladivostok City of the Russian Federation on September 16. The city was in a fervent and warm welcoming atmosphere to greet the respected Comrade Kim Jong Un at a time when a fresh heyday of friendship and solidarity and cooperation is being opened up in the history of the development of the relations between the DPRK and Russia. The private train of Kim Jong Un arrived at the yard of the Artyom-Primorski Station No. 1 at 9:00 local time. He was greeted by Alexandr Kozlov, minister of Natural Resources and Ecology, Oleg Kozhemyako, governor of the Maritime Territory Administration, Byacheslav Kwon, mayor of Artyom, and other senior officials from the capital and local areas. He exchanged greetings with the senior officials who came to receive him, and warmly waved back to the lovely Russian children welcoming him with bouquets. He visited the Knevichi Airbase as the first leg of his tour of Vladivostok. Accompanying him were Marshals of the Korean People's Army (KPA) Ri Pyong Chol and Pak Jong Chon, Kang Sun Nam, minister of National Defence of the DPRK, General Kim Kwang Hyok, commander of the KPA Air Force, Admiral Kim Myong Sik, commander of the KPA Navy, other leading officials and suite members, and senior officials of the Russian Federation from the capital and local areas. The guard of honor of the three services of the armed forces of the Russian Federation and the military band lined up at the airbase. Kim Jong Un was warmly greeted by Sergei Shoigu, minister of Defence of the Russian Federation. He gladly met and exchanged warm greetings with Sergei Shoigu. He reviewed the guard of honor of the three services of the armed forces of the Russian Federation. He exchanged greetings with Aleksey Krivoruchko, vice minister of Defence of the Russian Federation, Nikolai Yevmenov, commander-in-chief of the Navy of the Russian Federation, Sergei Kobylash, commander of the long-range bomber force, and other commanding officers of the Russian armed forces who came to receive him, and observed different types of strategic bombers, multi-role fighter jets, pursuit fighter jets, attack fighter jets and other modern warplanes of the Russian air force. Sergei Kobylash, commander of the long-range bomber force, warmly welcomed Kim Jong Un visiting the Knevichi Airbase and explained in detail about the military planes on display. Seeing the military planes on display, Kim Jong Un learned about their combat performance and arms and equipment, being briefed on their tactical and technical specifications. Then he had a talk with commanding officers of the Russian armed forces. Sergei Kobylash presented Kim Jong Un with a gift as a token of deep thanks for his visit to the airbase. Kim Jong Un visited the Pacific Sea Fleet base as the next leg of his tour. The Pacific Sea Fleet is a powerful naval fortress of the national defences of Russia which reliably defends the territorial waters and national interests of Russia in constant actual war readiness with various kinds of surface ships, different types of submarines including strategic nuclear submarines, air force and other latest strategic weapons and equipment. The Pacific Sea Fleet received Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea, president of the State Affairs of the DPRK and supreme commander of the armed forces of the DPRK, with the deepest sincerity and respect and faith. Kim Jong Un was greeted by Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, Commander-in-Chief of the Navy Nikolai Yevmenov, Commander of the Pacific Sea Fleet Viktor Liina and other commanding officers of the fleet. He exchanged greetings with the commanding officers of the navy who came to greet him, and boarded Frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov, being saluted by the guard of honor of the three services of the armed forces of the Russian Federation and the guard of honor of the Pacific Sea Fleet. He received a salute from the captain of the frigate. Being explained in detail by Commander-in-Chief Yevmenov about the naval operation capability, major weapons and equipment and combat performance of the frigate, Kim Jong Un went round its combined control room, wheelhouse, etc. He highly appreciated the service personnel of the Pacific Sea Fleet for having made a great contribution to peace and security in Northeast Asia and the rest of the world by displaying brave fighting spirit and heroism. And he presented his gift as a token of his visit to the fleet and left his autograph in the visitors' book "The victorious wake for defending justice and peace will last forever. Regard for the Pacific Sea Fleet Kim Jong Un 2023. 9.16". Sergei Shoigu, minister of Defence of the Russian Federation, hosted a luncheon in welcome of Kim Jong Un 's visit to the fleet. At the luncheon, he warmly welcomed once again the respected Comrade Kim Jong Un who visited the Russian Federation and the Pacific Sea Fleet, expressing his will to further deepen the friendship and cooperation between the defence ministries of the two countries. DPRK Defence Minister Kang Sun Nam in his reply speech conveyed the warm militant greetings of the officers and men of the Korean People's Army to all the officers and men of the heroic Pacific Sea Fleet, expressing the willingness to further strengthen the militant unity and cooperation with the Russian army and reliably safeguard the regional and global peace and stability. The luncheon proceeded in a comradely and friendly atmosphere. Kim Jong Un was presented with a gift by Sergei Shoigu. At the end of the luncheon he had a talk with Sergei Shoigu. Expressing his pleasure of meeting the Russian defence minister again, he spoke highly of the development, modernity and heroism of the Russian armed forces reliably defending the independent right and development interests of the country. Recalling that he was given special hospitality by Kim Jong Un during his Pyongyang visit made on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the victory in the Fatherland Liberation War, Defence Minister Shoigu expressed thanks to Kim Jong Un for visiting the Russian Federation to encourage the service personnel and people of Russia who have turned out to realize their cause of justice. Kim Jong Un shared views on the regional and international military and political situation with Sergei Shoigu, and exchanged their constructive opinions on the practical issues arising in further strengthening the strategic and tactical coordination, cooperation and mutual exchange between the armed forces of the two countries and in the fields of their national defence and security. That evening he, together with Vladivostok citizens, enjoyed a ballet "Sleeping Beauty" at the Maritime Territory Branch of the Mariinsky Theatre. Among the audience were DPRK Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui, O Su Yong and Pak Thae Song, secretaries of the C.C., WPK, and other senior officials and suite members. Alexandr Kozlov, minister of Natural Resources and Ecology of Russia, Oleg Kozhemyako, governor of the Maritime Territory Administration, and other senior officials from Moscow and local areas of Russia enjoyed the ballet together with them. Kim Jong Un was warmly greeted by Russian cadres and Sergei Bannikov, manager of the theatre. He, touring Vladivostok City with friendly feelings toward the Russian people, took the reserved seats of the theatre together with the cadres of the two countries, being given a rousing ovation by citizens of Vladivostok. He expressed deep thanks to the performers and the theatre for their impressive and elegant ballet of high artistic value. -0- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korean leader receives drones as he wraps up Russia's trip Iran Press TV Sunday, 17 September 2023 6:03 PM North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has received drones and body armor as he wrapped up a trip to Russia that has rattled the West. Russia's official TASS news agency said Sunday that the "leader of the DPRK received five kamikaze drones and a 'Geran-25' reconnaissance drone with vertical takeoff," using the official name of North Korea. The report added that the governor of the Primorye region also "offered Kim Jong-un a set of bulletproof protection" and "special clothing not detectable by thermal cameras". "This is a body armor with protection zones for the chest, shoulders, throat and groin, and it is much lighter than its known analogs," TASS added. On Saturday, Kim met the Russian defense minister in Vladivostok, where he inspected state-of-the-art weapons including a hypersonic missile system. Kim ended his visit to the Russian Far East on Sunday by boarding his armored train in the city of Artyom, located north of the port of Vladivostok, and embarking on the long trip home. The video showed Kim being seen off with the national anthems of both North Korea and Russia. North Korean news agency KCNA has described the atmosphere during Kim's visit as "fervent and warm" and said a "new era of friendship, solidarity and cooperation" was opening between North Korea and Russia. The two leaders called each other "comrades" at lunch and President Vladimir Putin reminded Kim that it was the Soviet Union that backed North Korea - and was first to recognize it 75 years ago when it was established. Video released by the Kremlin Wednesday showed the two leaders shaking hands before touring the space center and adjoining rocket complex, where launch vehicles are assembled and tested. North Korea has made space technology a priority. Kim in the past had stressed the role of military satellites as a means to protect national safety and territorial stability. Kim's extended tour of Russia's far eastern region, which began on Tuesday, focused extensively on bilateral coordination. Kremlin earlier said Kim's visit would cover "bilateral relations, the situation in the region and in the global arena." The visit rattles US-led West But Washington claimed it had intelligence data that the talks between Putin and Kim on a weapons deal were "actively advancing". The North Korean leader's previous trip abroad was to Russia to meet Putin after the collapse of bilateral denuclearization talks with then-US president Donald Trump. Since 2006, North Korea has been under UN sanctions over its nuclear weapons and missile programs. Russia recently joined China in opposing new sanctions on North Korea, blocking a United States-led push and publicly splitting the UN Security Council for the first time since it started punishing Pyongyang in 2006. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said last week the geopolitical climate had changed completely since the United Nations imposed sanctions on North Korea, and he accused the West of breaking pledges on humanitarian support for Pyongyang. Lavrov said the West had broken contractual agreements by providing Soviet-era weaponry to Ukraine - a reference to arms supplied to Kiev by central and eastern European countries which once belonged to the Moscow-led Warsaw Pact. The North Korean leader has praised Moscow for having "stood up against the hegemonic forces" to defend its sovereignty and security. Ever since the war began, Kiev's allies, led by the United States and Britain, have been supplying Ukraine with weapons, a step that Russia says would prolong the conflict. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Concludes His Visit to Russian Federation Korean Central News Agency of DPRK Pyongyang, September 18 (KCNA) -- Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), left Vladivostok City on September 17 after successfully completing the schedule of his official goodwill visit to the Russian Federation. The respected Comrade Kim Jong Un visited several objects in the fields of military, economy, science, education and culture while staying in Vladivostok City, the last leg of his official goodwill visit to the Russian Federation, for two days in succession. At the Artyom-Primorski Station No. 1, there was a send-off ceremony for Kim Jong Un who starts his way home after bringing about a new radical turn in the history of the development of the DPRK-Russia relations. The guard of honor of the three services of the armed forces of the Russian Federation and the military band lined up at the railway station yard. Present at the station to see off the respected Comrade Kim Jong Un were Alexandr Kozlov, minister of Natural Resources and Ecology, Oleg Kozhemyako, governor of the Maritime Territory Administration, Byacheslav Kwon, mayor of Artyom City, and Alexandr Matsegora, Russian ambassador to the DPRK. A send-off ceremony for Kim Jong Un took place. The national anthems of the DPRK and the Russian Federation were solemnly played. Kim Jong Un reviewed the guard of honor of the three services of the armed forces of the Russian Federation. He bid farewell to the senior officials of Russia from the capital and local areas who came to send him off. He extended his heartfelt thanks to President Putin and the Russian leadership and people for their special care and cordial hospitality in every place during the whole period of his visit to Russia, wishing Russia prosperity and its people well-being. The private train of Kim Jong Un left amid the farewells of dear Russian friends. The official goodwill visit to the Russian Federation by Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the WPK and president of the State Affairs of the DPRK, will shine long in history as the occasion of further consolidating the traditional ties of good neighbor and cooperation between the DPRK and Russia based on the comradely friendship and militant unity and opening up a new chapter of the development of the bilateral relations. -0- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Antony J. Blinken and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock at a Joint Press Availability US Department of State Remarks Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Treaty Room Washington, D.C. September 15, 2023 SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good afternoon, everyone. Let me first say what an absolute pleasure it is to have my friend and colleague Annalena Baerbock here in Washington for what have proven to be, as always, very, very good consultations and conversations on an incredibly wide array of issues. And I think that's evidence of the fact that the United States and Germany are partners quite literally around the world on all the issues that matter to our people in this moment, at this time. So I don't think either of us can cover everything we talked about in the interest of time, in the interest of people getting lunch. But let me just touch on a few things, and I'm sure the foreign minister will want to do the same. Of course, we spent part of our conversation focused on Ukraine and Russia's ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine. Both of us have recently returned from Ukraine, so we were able to compare notes on our visits but also make clear that we are both deeply committed to continuing the strong support that we and dozens of other countries around the world have been providing to Ukraine - military, economic, humanitarian. And that support is being manifested in everything that we're doing right now to help Ukraine as it prosecutes the counteroffensive to take back more of its territory. But also as we think about the longer term and the importance of all of us being able to support Ukraine in all of these areas in a sustainable and effective way as it builds a military for the future, as it tries to develop a strong economy, and as it continues to deal with the humanitarian - the horrific humanitarian consequences of Russia's aggression. Ultimately, the objective, of course, is for Ukraine to succeed in its efforts to regain its sovereignty, its territorial integrity - but not only to survive the Russian aggression, which it has and will, but to thrive in the future and to be able to stand strongly on its own feet. And we compared notes on the efforts that we're undertaking with many other countries to enable Ukraine to do that. I would just note as well, and as we discussed, that on the economic side, just yesterday we named a very highly respected senior official and colleague of many years, Penny Pritzker, our former secretary of Commerce, to take on the role of being our special representative for Ukraine's economic recovery, to work closely with Germany, with the European Union, with G7 partners, and many others who are working on this. And ultimately here, even as governments and international financial institutions support Ukraine - and that will continue - ultimately the most sustainable way for Ukraine to succeed economically is through private-sector investment. And so we are focusing many efforts on these. Penny Pritzker brings remarkable expertise, remarkable knowledge, remarkable networks of contacts around the world to help do this. Of course, both of us continue to strongly urge a return to the Black Sea Grain Initiative, which, when it was in force, enabled Ukraine to export well over 30 million tons of grain, enough for 18 billion loaves of bread. Of course, that agreement never should have been necessary in the first place. It was only necessary because Russia blocked Ukraine from exporting its food to the world. But when the agreement was in force, it at least enabled that food to get out. Since Russia has torn it up, the food is not getting out. The people who are suffering the most are in developing countries. Greater food scarcity, rising prices for everyone, even those countries that were not directly getting the food from Ukraine - and we know, of course, that most of the grain getting out of Ukraine under the Black Sea Grain Initiative was going to developing countries. So I think Russia has only reinforced the opprobrium that it's getting from countries around the world by its actions on Black Sea grain. Of course, we continue to work on alternate routes to get grain out of Ukraine. We also discussed our common approaches to China, and we very much welcome Germany's China strategy. It is very coincident with our own. I think it reflects something that we've seen around the world, both in Europe, in Asia, as well as in the United States, which is a growing convergence in our approaches to China. Both of us, among other things, share the goal when it comes to our economic relationships of de-risking, not decoupling. This was further articulated in, I think, the very strong speech that President von der Leyen gave in her State of the European Union remarks just the other day. We're also very much aligned in our support for peace and stability, and maintaining the status quo when it comes to Taiwan, as well as throughout the region. Finally, I think it's worth highlighting that we spoke about regional security in Europe, and particularly Bosnia and Herzegovina. We very much appreciate Germany's leadership when it comes to limiting some of the financial flows to the Republika Srpska's President Dodik, to both rejoining and strengthening EUFOR's ALTHEA program. And we talked about how the European Union can maintain pressure on actors who are putting Bosnia and Herzegovina at great risk - notably, Mr. Dodik - using all necessary tools, and boosting the capabilities of the stability mission. Finally, I would just note that Germany has been such a critical partner when it comes to NATO and our work for security and stability more broadly. Its leadership in fulfilling the Vilnius commitments on NATO capabilities has been instrumental. And I would be remiss if I didn't note as well that when it comes to Ukraine, among individual nations, Germany is the second largest provider of support to Ukraine in the world after the United States. That's the kind of leadership we've seen from Germany. That's the kind of leadership that I'm so appreciative of coming from Foreign Minister Baerbock, who's been among my closest colleagues throughout this past year and a half when it comes to dealing with Ukraine and so many other issues. So Annalena, with that, let me turn it over to you. I guess we'll also have the pleasure of spending the week together in New York at the UN General Assembly. FOREIGN MINISTER BAERBOCK: Well, thank you very much, and thank you very much for the warm welcome today and also yesterday evening. I will speak in German also for the German media. (Via interpreter) Ladies and gentlemen, the German-American relations are a bit like it is with good friends. It's not only about picking up the phone. It is important to feel a real connection, especially when you're not - and also knowing when the other is not there but that he's still there in the background and that you can rely on him. And in these times, the Biden administration is making a huge contribution to that, and also the trust-based relationship between the chancellor and the U.S. president, and also the close exchange between the two of us. And I would like to thank my colleague, Tony Blinken - Tony, thank you so much - for that. One could also say you - the Atlantic has shrunk a bit thanks to you, and we've seen it over the last one and a half years again and again that we're not divided by an ocean but that this ocean is linking us. During my visit to Texas, I was able to see that it is worth every effort to invest in this friendship, in the diversity of the people who carry this friendship forward, because it is this diversity that is the strength of our democracies. Investing in our friendship is something that we have done early on, a bit - and willingly, if I may say so, when we let one of our biggest or tallest export hits, Dirk Nowitzki, who went to Dallas to play in the NBA. But as we can see, early investments are never harmful, and we can see this with the finals that have taken place last week, and the semi-finals. But we are also linked even more by another thing: We stand up for each other's security in freedom. We Europeans and especially we Germans have taken our own security too lightly for too long. These times are over once and for all. In Germany we have flipped the switch. We are investing an additional 100 billion euros in our Bundeswehr. Our allies can rely on us. Two percent is the promise we all made within NATO. And we've also made a promise to the people of Ukraine. We will support Ukraine's - we will support Ukrainians, the people there, as long as it takes. For one and a half years, Putin has been going nowhere with his mindset that at some point Europe and the United States and the whole world will just get used to this war because there were other important things that matter. But no one in our transatlantic alliance and basically no one in the world wants and will get used to this brutal war of aggression. Every state in the world knows that this would be a risk for their own security. And we also see that no one in the world will get used to the fact that immeasurable suffering is being inflicted upon people in Ukraine, not only in military trenches but in every village where Russian troops have been ravaging. Children have been separated from their parents, which is not normal. No one will get used to that. Villagers have been locked up in cold basements. It's not normal, and no one in the world will get used to that. And both of us have made clear again and again that a war is not only about abstract figures and sticking to territorial integrity and sovereignty, but that behind every figure there is a victim, a human being, a face. Putin's sledgehammer of fate will not bend the Ukrainian will to survive; it is strengthening their will to fight for their freedom. And this brutality also strengthens the determination of the international community. We in the world stand up for everyone in Ukraine being able to live in freedom in the future. We've made it clear during our visits to Kyiv as well it's not only about the delivery of arms. It's about humanitarian effort as well, the protection of infrastructure, bringing children back who have been deported. And we spoke again today about how before the winter we can step up our support to Ukraine and dovetail it even more, because we see that interaction in military support, economic support, and also humanitarian aid is so important. Even if Europe is literally an ocean away, during my talks at the U.S. Congress yesterday, I could sense so much goodwill for further support to Ukraine and also further support for peace in Europe, because many of the people I met there told me it is economically difficult but you can clearly see that Ukraine is defending our own values, the values we share. And this is the message that we will take to New York - both of us. The message is that the whole world is longing for freedom. And with his peace plan, President Zelenskyy has opened the door in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Countries from all over the world also have put one foot through that door to peace. And in New York, we will both make the case in different formats for the peace plan of Ukraine becoming the peace plan of the world, being peace for the world. And we will make clear that it is in the interest of all states. We've asked many countries for support over the last one and a half years, and we need to be self-reflective here. Many countries, especially in the beginning, asked us again and again why should we support you now that your peace in Europe is at stake when you've been so busy with yourselves when we needed you. And this is also something that shows that these are different times than 30 or 40 years ago. We work together in formats like the G7, NATO as well, but also many other international bodies. We've made it clear, yes, some things we've done in the past were not the right thing to do, but we want to shape the future together. We want to do better, not only for our own countries and our own regions but together with others. And this is why our global outreach, as we call it in technical terms within the G7 and within NATO, within United Nations, is also a place where we dovetail our initiatives. We want to work more closely together with countries whose partnership we might have taken for granted too often over the last years. So we also talked about the fact that not only Germany has opened an embassy in Fiji, but I learned that there are four new embassies also on the American side in the region. And daring more democracy, especially in times of this brutal war of aggression, is also something that unites us. So as the federal government - and we talked about this today - we are pooling our effort in the Indo-Pacific region as well, which is an important region for you, where you play a special role also with regard to China. And we are looking for how we can engage in a policy of de-risking with many other partners in the world too. Secretary, Tony, on both sides of the Atlantic many people are - especially young people in both our countries, and that's something we share as well - are concerned about divisions in our societies driving people apart in our own countries. So it is so important that we stand up for peace and democracy in the world, and this - in that regard also important to strengthen or own democracies. It makes us stronger when we as democracies also challenge ourselves and show that working together, democracies working together, will strengthen us mutually. As friends and partners, partners in values, the U.S. and Germany have a solid foundation to build on in the future. And we will especially focus on the younger generation for whom "transatlantic" is a bit of an abstract term. We will get them onboard. And this is also something that we cannot take for granted. We cannot just repeat the recipes of the past. We need to see how we can transform the transatlantic partnership and strengthen it for our young people. In that sense, thank you very much for spending so much time together with us. And in one and a half years of this brutal war of aggression, we've addressed many topics, also bilateral topics, that have been on the top of our agenda before. I would like to thank you for your hospitality. I am delighted that our new ambassador is here now, Andreas Michaelis. You know him well, and we have a very popular face here with him. And not only in terms of foreign policy but also on a bilateral level, we will be working closely together, and then we will enjoy the weekend before we meet again in New York. MR MILLER: Thank you. The first question today goes to John Hudson with The Washington Post. QUESTION: Thank you, and thank you, Mr. Secretary. The Biden administration is pushing hard for a normalization agreement between Israel and Saudi Arabia, and a lot of average Americans have questioned why should the United States be giving something up so that these two countries can get along better. Since Biden took office, Israel has rebuffed requests to open a consulate, it has rebuffed requests to stop the expansion of settlements, and it has rebuffed requests to rethink the reforms of the judiciary that threaten its democracy. Saudi Arabia, by turn, has ignored several requests to not slash the production of oil. And the leaders - Netanyahu and MBS - barely disguise the fact that they would prefer a Trump presidency over a Biden presidency. So I wonder: Does it make the United States and, by turn, the Biden administration look weak by so obsequiously catering to what these countries want who are not actually at war with each other right now? SECRETARY BLINKEN: John, I love the formulation of the question, especially the obsequious part. A few things. First, normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia, were it to be achieved, would, in my judgment, be a transformative event in the Middle East and well beyond - transformative because we've now had four decades-plus of turmoil in that region in one way or the other going back to 1979. You can go back, of course, even further. Moving from a region of turmoil to one of much greater stability and integration would have profound benefits for people in the region and, I believe, profound benefits for people around the world. And of course, in one way or another, we've been drawn in time and again to that region when it was in turmoil, when it was in conflict. Having a region defined by normalized relations between Israel, its neighbors, and countries beyond; defined by integration and people working together in common cause on common projects that will benefit and improve people's lives, I think, would be a singularly positive event. Having said that, first, as important as it would be, it could not be and would not be a substitute for Israel and the Palestinians also resolving their differences and indeed, in our judgment, continuing to move toward and ultimately achieving a two-state solution. And it's clear from my own conversations, for example, with Saudi leadership that any agreement that might be reached between Israel and Saudi Arabia when it comes to normalization would need to include a significant component for the Palestinians. Second, even as we are working on this, it remains a difficult proposition. The specifics of any agreement in terms of what the different parties are looking for are challenging, and so while I believe it is very much possible, it is not at all a certainty. But we believe that the benefit that would accrue were we able to achieve it would certainly be worth the effort. Third, who's to say that in an arrangement that involves at least three countries, were we able to get there, there would not be concrete benefits for all three countries, to include the United States? And we would expect progress on a number of issues in a number of areas that clearly are in our interests. So while I believe that normalization in and of itself would be very much to the benefit of the United States and many other countries around the world, as well as the countries in question, it's also very clear that there may well be specific things that will be important for us with regard both to Saudi Arabia and to Israel, as well as things they will need from each other, as well as things that other parties may well need. So it's a long way of saying that we're not there. There's no guarantee we'll get there. We believe it's profoundly important if we can achieve it, but I would wait to see, if something emerges, all of the details that come with it. QUESTION: And you would acknowledge that there's no active hostilities between Saudi Arabia and Israel? SECRETARY BLINKEN: I would certainly acknowledge that there are no active hostilities, but I think we would all acknowledge what we've seen over the past decades, and I suspect we would all acknowledge the powerful, powerful impact normalization between the leading country in the Islamic world and Israel would have not just in terms of relations between them but well beyond the region. The custodian of the holy sites, Mecca and Medina, normalizing relations with Israel I think would resonate very, very powerfully. So look, I don't think there can be doubt about the benefits of this, but the details of achieving it, again, remain challenging. But we're working on it, and we believe that working on it, if the result can be achieved, would be, as I said, quite literally transformative. MR MILLER: Next question goes to Stephanie Bolton with Welt. QUESTION: Thank you. Secretary Blinken, did you ask Minister Baerbock if the German Government was willing to exchange a Russian spy who killed an opposition politician in Berlin for the Wall Street Journal correspondent currently imprisoned in Russia? And secondly, there are reports today that the U.S. Government believes that the Chinese defense minister has been placed under investigation. Can you confirm this? And what conclusions does your government draw from the apparent turmoil in Beijing? Thank you. SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thank you. With regard to the first question about detainees in Russia, no, that's not something that we discussed today. With regard to the question of the Chinese defense minister, I don't have anything to offer on that. I don't know about the status of the defense minister, and in any event, ultimately these are issues for the Chinese Government to decide. We remain fully prepared, as we've been, to engage with the Chinese Government, whoever happens to be holding the positions of responsibility at any given time, just as I did when I went to Beijing earlier this summer, and we expect that to continue irrespective of who's holding what portfolio. MR MILLER: Next question goes to Elizabeth Hagedorn with Al-Monitor. QUESTION: Thank you. I'd like to ask you both about Iran. Minister Baerbock, Iran has threatened to respond to the E3's move yesterday on sanctions. Have you coordinated with Washington on how to offset that response? And also, after speaking with your Iranian counterpart on Wednesday, are you any closer to securing the release of U.S. resident and German national Jamshid Sharmahd? And Secretary Blinken, what do you make of the recent growth in Iran's stockpile of 60 percent enriched uranium but the apparent slowdown in the pace of enrichment? Does this motivate the U.S. to pick up where the P5+1 left off a year ago, or instead work with third countries to cap the program in some sort of lesser deal? And also, as Iranians mark the anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death, there are those on the ground who say they don't want to see the U.S. negotiating with - any deal that could see the freeing up of funds that could be used nefariously by the Iranian leaders who oppress them. What's your response to that? SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thank you. FOREIGN MINISTER BAERBOCK: I will speak in German again. (Via interpreter) We have not only exchanged today but over the last months and actually since I took office, and we've often talked about the Iran dossier, especially with regard to the nuclear threat, after the Iranian regime having violated and having continued their nuclear program, and also with regard to the second part of your question with regard to the massive reprisals against their own population. And the E3 partners - France, Great Britain, and the Federal Republic of Germany - yes, we made it clear yesterday that we uphold the remaining nuclear sanctions due to the fact that the Iranian nuclear program is so advanced. And these are direct impacts from the severe and continuing Iranian violations against the JCPOA that have been ongoing since 2019. At the same time, we remain open to a diplomatic solution because the goal needs to be to avoid regional proliferation. SECRETARY BLINKEN: I'm sorry. Go ahead. FOREIGN MINISTER BAERBOCK: And then the consular cases. (Via interpreter) I think we both share the opinion that we will not mutually comment our consular cases from the sidelines. And these are very sensitive issues, so I personally cannot comment on individual cases at this point. SECRETARY BLINKEN: Elizabeth, with regards to nuclear matters, we of course - both of us and many other countries, have longstanding concerns about Iran's nuclear program. And the agreement that was reached some years ago, the JCPOA, had the very important benefit of putting that program in a box. Unfortunately, in leaving that agreement, we created an opportunity for Iran to get back out of the box that we put it in. And we've now been dealing with some of the consequences of that decision over the last couple of years, including things like enrichment at higher levels, greater accumulation of stockpiled enriched material, et cetera. We are determined - President Biden is determined that Iran will not acquire a nuclear weapon one way or another. We continue to believe that diplomacy is the most effective way to achieve that result, but there's no active diplomatic engagement on that question right now because of the steps that Iran has taken as well as its refusal or inability to get back into mutual compliance with the JCPOA. The steps that you've alluded to would certainly be positive in the sense that moving away from further enrichment, further accumulation of stockpiles, is a good thing. But in the moment, we're not engaged in discussion nor in negotiation with Iran about the nuclear program. But it would be important to see steps by Iran to continue to move back away from the thresholds that it's been moving towards since the JCPOA was ended. Tomorrow is indeed the anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death. Just this week, we have imposed additional sanctions on Iranians responsible for the crackdown against peaceful protestors and those responsible for repression. This follows numerous actions that we took in the wake of her death and during the protests a year ago when the Iranian Government began firing on peaceful protestors, disrupting internet access, taking other steps to repress its own people. We took action, both in terms of the sanctions that we imposed on those responsible for the crackdown from day one; we provided means by which Iranian citizens could continue to communicate with one another and with the outside world; we strongly supported an unprecedented session at the United Nations Human Rights Council; we created a factfinding mission to look into, on behalf of the international community, the aggression by the Iranian Government against its own people. And we continue, as I said, by the actions we took just yesterday in marking Mahsa Amini's death, to do just that. When it comes to funds and resources for the Iranian regime - and I think you're referring specifically to the agreement that we're in the process of implementing to return home five Americans who have been unlawfully detained in Iran, one going back eight years - I'd say two things. First, when it comes to getting Americans out of jail and back home who have been unjustly detained anywhere in the world, I'm happy to be - to take any criticism that comes my way for that. I view it as job one to do everything I can to bring Americans home. And under this administration, we've brought nearly 30 Americans home from places around the world who are being unjustly detained, in many cases in the most horrible conditions. I know the impact this has on them, on their families. I've talked to virtually all of the families in person or by video over the last two and a half years. And so this is very, very important to me. It's important to the President. And we're willing to make hard decisions to make that happen. In this specific instance, the resources in question - Iran's own money that it had accumulated as a result of selling oil, at the time legally and lawfully, our sanctions have from day one exempted the use of these funds for humanitarian purposes. And the agreement in question is simply allowing the transfer of these funds from one bank and one country to another bank in another country where they can be used exclusively for humanitarian purposes. I view that as a sensible arrangement. And if it's facilitated the return home of Americans who are being unjustly detained, I think that's a good deal for the people in question and a good deal for the United States. MODERATOR: For the final question, Paul-Anton KrAger with SAddeutsche Zeitung. QUESTION: Thank you very much and allow me to take you back to where you both started off, Ukraine. You both reiterated that the ultimate goal of the support to Ukraine is that she regains her sovereignty and her territorial integrity. Both governments, nonetheless, are hesitant to provide certain weapon systems to the Government of Ukraine that it has been asking for, namely ATACMS ballistic missiles and Taurus cruise missiles. Apparently, the concern is the range that they would be suitable to attack also facilities in Russia, deep in Russia. My question would be if Ukraine were to defend herself in the most efficient way, wouldn't it be necessary or unavoidable in the end to lift those restrictions and allow Ukraine to use Western weapons in exercise of her right to selfadefense on Russian territory? FOREIGN MINISTER BAERBOCK: (Via interpreter) I have commented on that question several times, so I will be short and will keep it brief. Both of us have seen, during our visits, how important it is that the Ukrainian Government and the Ukrainian military is able to defend and to free their people in eastern Ukraine because the people there, to what we know, really live in hell. And in Ukraine, in Kyiv, I met people who have been deported from Ukraine as so-called civilian hostages, even though, I think, this is the wrong term. They were brutally torn from their lives because they worked for the local government or because they were just standing on the streets. They were deported to Russia, to other places. They were tortured. And some of them still haven't come back yet, and we don't know how many of them are there because for one and a half years, there has not only been this terrible war, there has not only been a full invasion of the east of Ukraine, for one and a half years there has - no real humanitarian aid has reached eastern Ukraine. Neutral observers cannot see what's going on there. And for one and a half years, these villages, these cities, have not been freed. In order for them to be free, a huge belt of mined area has to be overcome behind which the Russian occupants have been entrenched. So it needs military systems, weapon systems, that can overcome this belt of mined area. So we are talking to one another about how we can support Ukrainians, but have made it clear several times already these highly modern weapon systems are also very effective weapon systems. And it's not only about reach. It's not only about Ukrainian territory because if that was the theory, you could also travel to the north of Ukraine and just take you 500 kilometers of range, but maybe 50 kilometers, and you could hit Russian territory. So I think this alone is not an argument to me. The argument is that there are sensitive issues to be clarified, especially for our system, Taurus, and it's not as easy as it might sound in the first place. So as the federal government, the minister of defense, the chancellor, and I have talked about this repeatedly over the past weeks, and we've made it clear again and again we're in intensive discussions and we're examining what we can do. The second part of your question pertains to attacks on - possible attacks on Russian territory, and I made it clear to the German press also the right to self-defense means that you can defend oneself. We have other cases in the world where states that are attacked from the outside have a right to defend themselves and to fight back. This brutal war is not only about what is legally admissible, we have made it clear again and again the basis for arms deliveries is international law, humanitarian international law. That's the basis for our arms deliveries. But it's not only about legal questions, and I think we've made it clear at this press conference as well. It is about the world's broad support for Ukraine, for peace in Ukraine. And this is about trust. And in addition to legal questions, including the - and with regard to the right to self-defense, they are quite clear. But for us, as NATO partners as well, it was important for us that we have - that we strengthen trust across the globe, trust in our own actions, and that this is about strengthening Ukraine's capabilities for self-defense. So we told the Ukrainian military from the beginning that our arms deliveries are limited to defending their own territory, the territory of Ukraine. SECRETARY BLINKEN: I could simply say, "What she said," because as always and as usual, we are in full synchronization. But let me just add quickly a couple of things. First, I think it's important to note from the outset that President Putin has already failed in what he was trying to achieve in Ukraine. His objective was to erase Ukraine from the map, to eliminate its independence, to subsume it into Russia. And again, that has failed and it cannot succeed. Now, where this aggression settles, that is fundamentally up to Ukraine. And we're determined to do everybody we can to help Ukraine regain territory seized from it by Russia in this aggression. If you go back a year ago, I was, along with Annalena, just in Ukraine a week ago. Previous to that, my last visit was almost exactly a year before. In that space of time, Ukraine's recovered more than 50 percent of the territory taken by it from Russia since February of 2022, and of course it's now engaged in this important counter offensive to try to regain more of the land stolen from it by Russia. And both of our countries and dozens of others are deeply engaged in working every single day to try to make sure we're providing Ukraine what it needs to succeed. And that is a constantly evolving question. As the nature of the fight evolves, changes, the needs evolve. And so we have adjusted, from day one, every step along the way. And we're constantly reviewing what additional support might be useful and effective for Ukraine in the moment as well as it works to build - and as we work with it to build - a longer-term military for the future that can successfully deter and defeat any future aggressions. So different systems are constantly under review, and it's very important to emphasize that the systems themselves are critical, but that - but that's not sufficient as a prism through which to look at this. Ukrainians have to be able to use them effectively, and sometimes with new, sophisticated systems, that requires training, and of course we're engaged in that. They need to be able to maintain them, and that doesn't happen automatically. And then they need to fit into a coherent military program that makes sense in helping Ukraine achieve its objectives. So all of those factors are taken into consideration. I can just tell you that any given system that's discussed, including the media, is probably under active review if it's something the Ukrainians have asked us to look at. And we are. When it comes to how Ukrainians use these systems, the targeting decisions are theirs. They're not ours. And they have to make judgments about what can be most effective in working to regain their full sovereignty, their territorial integrity. As a matter of our own policy, we do not encourage, nor do we enable, the use of our weapon systems outside of Ukraine. But again, fundamentally these are Ukrainian decisions. And the only reason we're talking about those decisions is because of the Russian aggression against Ukraine, and because of the fact that, as the foreign minister alluded to and has talked about so powerfully, every single day Russian bombs, Russian rockets, Russian drones are raining down on the people of Ukraine, destroying, tearing apart innocent lives; destroying, tearing apart Ukraine's infrastructure, its energy infrastructure, the food and grain silos, and ports that have been responsible for getting food around the world to people who need it. That is the day in, day out reality of Ukraine, and that is why we and so many others are supporting Ukraine, and why Ukraine has difficult, challenging decisions to make about how it can best and most effectively defend itself and regain territory that's been taken from it. We respect what it is doing. We're determined to do everything we can to help. And at the end of the day, we both are looking for, on behalf of Ukraine, a just and durable peace that can finally make a real difference in the lives of the Ukrainian people. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Indian Coast Guard Ship Samudra Prahari on an overseas deployment to ASEAN countries as part of India's initiative for Marine Pollution Response in the region India - Press Information Bureau Ministry of Defence 13 NCC cadets onboard to participate in Puneet Sagar Abhiyan in the region Posted On: 16 SEP 2023 7:00PM by PIB Delhi The Indian Coast Guard Ship Samudra Prahari, a specialized Pollution Control Vessel, is currently on an overseas deployment to ASEAN countries from 11 Sep to 14 Oct 2023. This deployment is part of India's ASEAN initiatives for Marine Pollution Response, showcasing the Pollution Response capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and its commitment to addressing marine pollution issues and enhancing capacity in the region. The ship is equipped with a Chetak Helicopter in Pollution Response configuration, enhancing its capabilities in this area. This initiative was announced by Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh during the ASEAN Defence Minister Meeting Plus meeting in Cambodia in November 2022. During this deployment, the ship is scheduled to make port calls in Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh, and Jakarta. It will demonstrate the ICG's pollution response capabilities and its dedication to collaborative efforts for marine pollution response. As part of an overseas exchange program, the ship has embarked 13 NCC cadets to participate in "Puneet Sagar Abhiyan," an international outreach program focused on beach clean-ups and similar activities in coordination with partner nations. This visit holds significant importance in strengthening bilateral relationships with key maritime agencies, including the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Centre and BAKAMLA (Indonesia Maritime Security Agency). These relationships have evolved over the years to ensure the safety, security, and cleanliness of the seas in the region. Engagements with senior officials and personnel from these agencies during the visit will further enhance regional safety and security. The visit's agenda includes professional exchanges, cross-deck visits, planning and tabletop exercises, joint exercises, as well as official and social engagements including visits to capacity-building facilities. The visit of ICGS Samudra Prahari to ASEAN countries reinforces India's continuous efforts to foster friendly relations through maritime cooperation. This aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, known as "SAGAR - Security and Growth for All in the Region," which seeks to unite the region. It also echoes the Indian government's theme during its G20 Presidency: "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" - One Earth, One Family, One Future. ***** ABB/Anand (Release ID: 1958029) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address On first anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death, Canada announces additional sanctions against Iranian regime Global Affairs Canada News release September 15, 2023 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada A year has passed since Mahsa Amini died due to the actions of Iran's so-called Morality Police. Since then, Canada has led international efforts to respond to the Iranian regime's actions by imposing sanctions on 31 entities and 129 individuals for gross and systematic violations of human rights and grave threats to international peace and security. In October 2022, Canada convened a meeting of women foreign ministers to hear directly from Iranian women about the state of human rights in Iran. In addition, for the 21st consecutive year, Canada will lead the UN General Assembly resolution on the situation of human rights in Iran this fall. Building on these efforts, the Honourable MAlanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada is imposing additional sanctions under the Special Economic Measures (Iran) Regulations. This is the 14th package of sanctions imposed by Canada against the Iranian regime since October 2022, bringing the total number of individuals sanctioned since October 2022 to 135. These measures, taken in coordination with the European Union, the United Kingdom and the United States, demonstrate Canada's unwavering resolve to respond to the Iranian regime's continued aggression against its citizens. Today's sanctions list 6 individuals involved in activities that constitute gross and systemic violations of human rights, including the Secretary and 3 senior members of Iran's Supreme Council for Cultural Revolution, the chief architect of the regime's repressive compulsory hijab policy. This package also targets the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' (IRGC's) senior commander in the Iranian Kurdish provinces, as well as the Iranian parliament's most senior official for national security and foreign affairs. The list of those sanctioned includes: Abdol Hossein Khosrow Panah, Secretary of the Supreme Council for Cultural Revolution Hasan Rahimpour Azghadi, member of the Supreme Council for Cultural Revolution Ensieh Khazali, Iran's Vice President for Women and Family Affairs and member of the Supreme Council for Cultural Revolution Mohammad Mehdi Esmaili, Iran's Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance and member of the Supreme Council for Cultural Revolution Mohammad Masroor, Commander of the IRGC's Ground Forces Base Mojtaba Zonnouri, Head of the National Security and Foreign Affairs Committee of Majlis and former deputy of the Supreme Leader's Representative in the IRGC These measures will impose a dealings prohibition on the listed individuals, which will effectively freeze any assets they may hold in Canada and render them inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. Today's announcement demonstrates Canada's continued efforts to impose costs on the Iranian regime for its flagrant violations of human rights. As the regime accelerates its methods of surveillance and repression against its citizens, in particular women and girls, Canada will continue supporting the Iranian people and call on the Iranian regime to end all forms of persecution and violence against its citizens. Quotes "Mahsa Amini's death was a direct result of the Iranian regime's systemic harassment and repression of women and girls in Iran, which has accelerated over the last 12 months. Today's sanctions reflect our unwavering commitment to stand with the people of Iran, in particular women and girls, as they continue to courageously defend their human rights." - MAlanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs Quick facts Since October 7, 2022, Canada has announced several new measures to respond to Iran's ongoing human rights violations and the threats Iran poses to international peace and security, including: designating members of the Iranian regime, including those in the IRGC and its top leaders, comprising more than 10,000 senior officials, as inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) because of their engagement in terrorism and in systematic and gross human rights violations adopting new sanctions against members of the Iranian regime, including those in the IRGC and those associated with them, in addition to introducing a legislative amendment to the IRPA to ensure that no sanctioned individual connected to the IRGC can enter Canada considering all the tools at the Government of Canada's disposal, including the Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act, which imposes targeted measures against foreign nationals who are deemed responsible for or complicit in gross violations of human rights As of today, Canada has sanctioned 176 Iranian individuals and 192 Iranian entities, including the IRGC and key members of the regime's security, intelligence and economic apparatuses. Since October 2022, Canada has sanctioned 31 entities and 135 individuals. In 2012, Canada designated Iran as a state supporter of terrorism under the State Immunity Act. In concert with the Justice for Victims of Terrorism Act, this listing allows victims to bring civil action against Iran for losses or damages from an act of terrorism with links to Iran committed anywhere in the world. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran: Council lists four more individuals and six entities over serious human rights violations European Council / Council of the European Union Council of the EU Press release 15 September 2023 Today, the Council imposed a tenth package of restrictive measures on four individuals and six entities responsible for serious human rights violations in Iran. Today's package follows the High Represenative's declaration on behalf of the European Union to mark the anniversary of the killing of Mahsa Amini on 16 September 2022, while in custody of the Iranian morality police. Today's listings include the Deputy to the Commander-in-Chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in Imam Ali Central Security Headquarters and the police commanders of the Mazandaran and Fars Provinces. The Council also decided to list Kachui prison and its director; the prisons of Sanandaj, Zahedan and Isfahan; as well as Tasnim News agency together with the Supreme Council of Cyberspace. Restrictive measures now apply to a total of 227 individuals and 43 entities. They consist of an asset freeze, a travel ban to the European Union and a prohibition to make funds or economic resources available to those listed. A ban on exports to Iran of equipment which might be used for internal repression and of equipment for monitoring telecommunications is also in place. The European Union expresses its support for the fundamental aspiration of the people of Iran for a future where their universal human rights and fundamental freedoms are respected, protected, and fulfilled. Today's package of restrictive measures follows the previous nine adopted by the Council on 17 October, 14 November, 12 December 2022, 23 January, 20 February, 20 March, 24 April, 22 May and 26 June 2023. The relevant legal acts have been published in the Official Journal of the EU. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union European Council / Council of the European Union Council of the EU Press release 15 September 2023 One year ago, the 22 year old woman Mahsa Amini was killed while in custody of the Iranian morality police. Her death sparked a nationwide movement of women and men calling for the respect, protection and fulfilment of their universal human rights and fundamental freedoms. The response to this wave of protests by the Iranian authorities was repression causing hundreds of deaths, thousands of unjust detentions and harm. Freedom of opinion and expression and other civic freedoms have been increasingly curtailed. The human rights situation in Iran continues to be critical. The EU and its member states stand united in urging the Iranian authorities to strictly abide by the principles enshrined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Iran is a party. We call upon Iran to eliminate, in law and in practice, all forms of systemic discrimination against women and girls in public and private life and to take gender-responsive measures to prevent and ensure protection for women and girls against sexual and gender-based violence in all its forms. The EU believes in and speaks up for fundamental rights such as freedom of expression, including online and offline, and freedom of assembly, which must be respected in all circumstances. A strong and free civil society is essential. We are appalled by the use of harsh sentences, including the carrying out of capital punishment, against protesters and reiterate our unequivocal opposition to the death penalty at all times, in all places and in all circumstances. Taking into account the worrying increase in executions in Iran over the past year, the EU calls on the Iranian authorities to refrain from any future executions, provide due process to all detainees and pursue a consistent policy towards the abolition of capital punishment. The EU also recalls that under international law the prohibition of torture is absolute. There are no reasons, circumstances or exceptions whatsoever that could be invoked as a justification for its use. Moreover, we call on Iran to implement the relevant international treaties and agreements to which it is a party, to allow free and unhindered access to the country for relevant UN Human Rights Special Procedures mandate holders and to fully cooperate with the independent, international Fact-Finding Mission created by the Human Rights Council. The European Union will continue to demand that the perpetrators of violence and human rights violations be held accountable. The EU also calls on Iran to immediately cease the unacceptable and unlawful practice of arbitrary detention, including of EU and dual EU-Iranian citizens and to immediately set them free. The EU and its member states reaffirm their strong support for the fundamental rights of Iranian women and men and their aspirations. As a result, we continue to consider all appropriate options at our disposal to address any issues of concern pertaining to the human rights situation in Iran. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Germany Federal Foreign Office 15.09.2023 - Press release One year ago on this day, Jina Mahsa Amini died because a few strands too many of her hair were exposed to the sunlight. These days, we are commemorating her and the hundreds of youngsters, women and men, who should have been part of Iran's future - their hopes and their future were taken from them by the brutal force of the regime. In all provinces, people took to the streets to speak out for their right to lead a self-determined life. Their protest chants were heard far beyond Iran's borders. The call "Jin, Jiyan, AzadA" is still resounding around the globe and has come to symbolise the courage of the women in Iran who refuse to be intimidated - no matter how brutal the repression they face. Although the protests are no longer in the headlines, we will not abandon the people in Iran. We are putting their fate on the agenda - in Brussels, New York and Geneva. We and our EU partners are invoking sanctions on those who continue to trample on people's rights and dignity in Iran. We have made sure that the United Nations will investigate these human rights violations, so that these cases are documented, and those responsible held to account. As heart-breaking as this may sound, we will not be able to change conditions in Iran from the outside. Nevertheless, we will not stop giving people there a voice. Tehran will respond to EU actions: Iran FM IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Sep 15, 2023 Tehran, IRNA -- Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian has termed Europe's non-compliance with its obligations after Trump's withdrawal from the JCPOA as a "game with time", adding that Tehran will respond to EU's new sanctions. The UK government on Friday announced sanctions targeting several Iranian officials. The sanctions include Iran's Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance Mohammad Mehdi Esmaili, his deputy Mohammad Hashemi, Tehran mayor Alireza Zakani and Iranian police spokesman Saeed Montazer Al-Mahdi. Amirabdollahian on Friday after a conference, referring to new sanctions imposed on some Iranian officials, said that "We will not leave the actions of the other parties not responded, they cannot ask for negotiations on one hand, and on the other hand, increase the pressure on Iran by repeating and continuing wrong policies." Iranian Foreign Minister added: "Unfortunately, three European countries are trying to run away by applying false pressure. When Trump withdrew from the JCPOA, the Europeans were supposed to keep their commitment, but they played with time and made it a factor so that they did not take a single step towards their commitments." Emphasizing that the Islamic Republic of Iran was the most committed party to its obligations, AmirAbdollahian said that based on the text of the JCPOA, no matter how much the other parties compromise and distance themselves from their commitments, Iran will take its actions within the framework of the JCPOA. 6125**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran seizes 2 tankers with over 1,500 million liters of smuggled fuel IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Sep 15, 2023 Abadan, IRNA -- The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy forces have captured two foreign oil tankers in the Persian Gulf that were carrying over 1,500 million liters of smuggled fuel. Deputy commander of the IRGC Navy's Third Naval Zone, Mohammad Sharif Shirali said on Thursday that IRGC Navy forces have seized two oil tankers holding over 1,500 million metric tons of "smuggled fuel" and 37 crew members based on a court order. Shirali added that these tankers were smuggling oil with the flags of Panama and Tanzania with the trade names "Steven" and "Crown". This IRGC Navy commander added that these two tanker ships carrying 1,500 million liters of smuggled fuel in the Persian Gulf waters, and arrested the entire crew members. 6125**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran on fresh sanctions: West has no right to shed crocodile tears for Iranians Iran Press TV Friday, 15 September 2023 10:48 PM Iran has strongly condemned the US and its allies for imposing a slew of fresh sanctions against the Islamic Republic over the country's defense of its security and nation in the face of Western-backed riots that spread throughout the country last year. On Friday, the United States, the UK, and the European Union sanctioned dozens of Iranian individuals and entities, which they accused of either suppression or misrepresentation of last year's unrest. Later in the day, Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kan'ani denounced the sanctions as "unconstructive behavior," which was not in line with the Western countries' own interests. The West, he added, rather had to adopt "a new policy [that was] based on respect for the great and civilized Iranian nation, the Islamic Republic's sovereignty, and the two sides' common security and interests." The unrest erupted throughout the country last September following the unfortunate death earlier that month of a young girl named Mahsa Amini. Amini fainted at a police station and was pronounced dead days later at a Tehran hospital. Relevant investigations attributed her death to a medical condition, dismissing allegations that she had been beaten by police forces. Iran says the 2022 riots were the result of foreign-backed elements exploiting the incident. Referring to the Western sanctions and accusations faulting Iran's riot response, Kan'ani asserted that, when it comes to the provision of public security for the country, the Iranian people and authorities "would not be influenced by the Western parties' malicious propaganda and measures." He, meanwhile, reminded the Western states of their own dismal rights records, identifying them as "countries, which continually perpetrate the most severe instances of violence against their own citizens, especially women, and also minorities, people of color, aboriginals, and migrants." These countries also never muster the courage to truly protest and condemn the "child-killing Zionist regime's daily crimes," the spokesman noted. Such states, therefore, "have no right to shed crocodile tears for the Iranian nation," he added. Kan'ani concluded his remarks by pointing out that the Western states' provision of support and safe haven for anti-Iran terrorist groups, such as the Mujahedin-e-Khalq Organization (MKO), which is guilty of killing thousands of Iranians, "belies their claim of supporting the Iranian people's rights." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran says will never cross red line in sanctions-removal efforts Iran Press TV Friday, 15 September 2023 6:18 PM Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian says Iran will never cross its red line and will always pursue restoration of the nation's absolute rights in the talks aimed at the removal of sanctions. Iran's principal policy is to thwart the sanctions' impact, Amir-Abdollahian said on Friday, which does not contract bids aimed at lifting the "cruel and unilateral" restrictions. The foreign minister said Iran would never tie its interests to China, the United States, Russia, and Europe, but would cooperate with any country in the East and the West that meets its national interests based on mutual respect. Amir-Abdollahian said European countries should respect the noble, civilized and cultured Iranian nation since mutual respect would benefit both sides. Pointing to Washington's move to waive sanctions to allow the transfer of $6 billion in frozen Iranian funds from South Korea to Qatar, Amir-Abdollahian said the money would be released within the framework of the SWIFT, the global provider of secure financial messaging services. The top diplomat said based on the agreement reached between Tehran and Washington, Iran can use the money to meet its needs. On September 11, US President Joe Biden's administration issued a blanket waiver for international banks to transfer $6 billion in frozen Iranian assets from South Korea to Qatar with no concern about the sanctions. The report released early Tuesday said the Biden administration has also agreed to release five Iranian citizens held in the United States. The five detainees were identified as Mehrdad Moein Ansari, Kambiz Attar Kashani, Reza Sarhangpour Kofrani, Amin Hassanzadeh, and Kaveh Lotfollah Afrasiabi. In an exclusive interview with the American broadcast television network NBC on Tuesday, President Ebrahim Raeisi underscored Iran's full authority on its recently-released assets, saying it is the Islamic Republic that decides how to spend the funds and that the money will be spent "wherever we need it." "This money belongs to the Iranian people, the Iranian government, so the Islamic Republic of Iran will decide what to do with this money." Iran's permanent mission to the United Nations also confirmed on Tuesday that five Iranians detained illegally in the United States on charges of circumventing US sanctions will soon be released as part a prisoner swap deal between Tehran and Washington. Europe's policy of 'playing with time' won't go unanswered Speaking to reporters, Amir-Abdollahian censured the lack of commitment on the part of the three European parties to the 2015 nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), after the US withdrawal under then President Donald Trump in 2018. He warned that Europe's "playing with time" and imposing sanctions on Iranian individuals would not go unanswered. "We do not leave the opposite sides' moves unanswered. They cannot ask for negotiations on the one hand, and pressure Iran by repeating and continuing wrong policies on the other." The minister expressed regret over a decision by Britain, France, and Germany to retain their ballistic missile- and nuclear-related sanctions against Iran in violation of the JCPOA. "Unfortunately, the three European countries seek to escape forward by applying false pressure." He said instead of remaining committed to their obligations after the US withdrawal, the trio have been playing with time and using it as a tool to refrain from taking even one step towards their commitments. He said sanctions would have no impact on Iran's will and only prove the US has not abandoned its excessive demands. The sanctions were due to expire in October under the JCPOA. The European trio, aka the E3, however, announced on Thursday they intended to keep the bans beyond the deadline. Reacting to the decision shortly afterward, Iran's Foreign Ministry said it considered it to be "an illegal measure," and contrary to the trio's commitments under the JCPOA and the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2231, which has endorsed the JCPOA. "The decision amounts to a tension-building measure, which is taken in bad faith," read a statement by the ministry. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US imposes new sanctions on 29 Iranian individuals, Press TV on riots anniversary Iran Press TV Friday, 15 September 2023 3:35 PM The United States has imposed a new round of sanctions on more than two dozen Iranian individuals and entities, including the English-language Press TV news network, over groundless accusations of "human rights abuses" on the eve of the anniversary of Western-backed riots in the country. The US Department of Treasury announced in a press release on its website on Friday that the bans targeted 29 individuals and entities in connection with what it claimed was "violent suppression of nationwide protests" following the death of Mahsa Amini, an Iranian woman of Kurdish descent who lost her life in police custody in the capital Tehran September last year. The sanctions were levied against 18 top members of Iran's security forces, the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) and the police as well as the head of the Iranian Prisons' Organization. The bans were also imposed on three individuals and one company in connection with Iran's telecoms ministry. The Tehran-based Press TV news channel and the two media outlets of Fars News and Tasnim and three of their senior officials were also targeted with sanctions. The latest sanctions are the US Treasury's 13th round of designations in connection with the foreign-backed riots that began last September. The sanctions freeze the US-based assets of the targeted individuals and companies and ban Americans from dealing with them. The fresh US sanctions came two days after the Australian government imposed bans on a number of Iranian individuals and entities, including Press TV, in yet another attack spearheaded by the West against freedom of speech in Iran. The restrictive measures, including financial sanctions and travel bans, targeted four individuals and three entities over what Canberra claimed were "human rights violations" in Iran. UK adds five designations to Iran sanctions list The British government also on Friday added five designations to its Iran sanctions list, targeting four individuals and one commercial entity over what it claimed were "human rights" violations. Among the targeted individuals were Iran's police spokesman General Saeed Montazer-al-Mahdi and Tehran's Mayor Alireza Zakani. EU sanctions 10 Iranian individuals, entities Also on Friday, the European Union on Friday added four Iranian officials and six entities to its sanctions list to mark the riot's anniversary. The 27-nation bloc has already imposed visa bans and asset freezes on around 170 Iranian individuals, companies and agencies over the accusations of "rights abuse." The four officials targeted included an IRGC commander, two regional police chiefs and a prison boss. Tasnim news agency, four prisons, and Iran's Supreme Council of Cyberspace were also placed on the blacklist. Riots broke out in Iran in mid-September after 22-year-old Amini fainted at a police station in Tehran and was pronounced dead three days later in a hospital. An official report by Iran's Legal Medicine Organization concluded that Amini's death was caused by illness rather than alleged blows to the head or other vital body organs. Despite clarification on the circumstances surrounding her death, protests erupted in the country, which later turned violent and led to attacks on security officers and acts of vandalism against public property as well as police vehicles and ambulances. Iran's intelligence community said several countries, including the United States and Britain, had used their spy and propaganda apparatuses to provoke violent riots in the country. London, in particular, is home to several anti-Iran TV networks, including Iran International, Manoto, and BBC Persian, which broadcast a steady stream of misinformation encouraging the Iranian youth to join the rioters during the wave of unrest. The foreign-backed violent riots claimed dozens of lives from both security forces and innocent people. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Commander: Iran's Armed Forces are prepared to defend its stability Iran Press TV Friday, 15 September 2023 3:26 PM Iran's Army stands firmly in the face of enemy plots and will not allow adversaries to make even the "slightest" move against the Islamic Republic, a senior Iranian commander says. Commander of the Iranian Army's Ground Force Brigadier General Kioumars Heidari made the remark during a visit to a border post in western Iran on Friday. "With the powerful presence of the Armed Forces along the borders, no enemy could ever pose a threat or harm security of the Iranian people," the commander said. General Heidari placed a premium on defending Iran's territorial integrity and said the principal mission of the Army's Ground Forces is to maintain and safeguard border security. Heidari's remarks came amid increasing threats by Kurdish terrorist groups holed up in the Iran-Iraq border, who enjoy the backing of the United States and Israel. Last month, Iran and Iraq reached a security agreement that requires the Iraqi authorities to disarm and relocate the Kurdish terrorist groups by September 19. In a phone conversation with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani on Saturday, Iranian President Ebrahim Raeisi said any act of provocation by terrorist and separatist groups undermines regional security and will not be tolerated. Iran has, on countless occasions, warned Iraqi Kurdistan's local authorities that it will not tolerate the presence and activity of terrorist groups along its northwestern borders, saying the country will give a decisive response should those areas become a haven for anti-Tehran terrorists. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran seizes two foreign tankers smuggling fuel in Persian Gulf Iran Press TV Friday, 15 September 2023 11:07 AM Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy has seized two foreign oil tankers smuggling fuel in the Persian Gulf waters. "In the past two days, the forces of the third zone of IRGC's Navy seized two oil tankers that were engaged in an organized smuggling of the Islamic Republic's oil and gas in the Persian Gulf," the deputy Commander of the IRGC's Third Naval Zone, Mohammad Sharif Shirali, said on Friday. He identified the vessels as Panama and Tanzania-flagged tankers named "Stephen" and "Crown", adding that their seizure took place upon judicial order. Some 1.5 million liters of fuel were confiscated during the operation. The IRGC's naval forces managed to "guide the seized tankers to Bandar-e Mahshahr and Arvand base", and handed over the 37 crew members who were on board the vessels to the legal authorities, Shirali said. He stressed that the IRGC's naval forces "vigilantly" monitors "all illegal moves by foreign commercial and military vessels" in the Persian Gulf region. The IRGC's Navy confiscated more than 50 million liters of smuggled fuel, mainly diesel, in various missions last year. It has over the past years foiled several attacks on both Iranian and foreign tankers in the strategic Persian Gulf region and other high seas. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Jailed Iranian Activist Narges Mohammadi Says Amini's Death Symbolizes 'Weakness' Of Regime By RFE/RL's Radio Farda September 15, 2023 Prominent jailed Iranian rights activist Narges Mohammadi says the death of Mahsa Amini a year ago has become a day that symbolizes "the oppression of the theocratic authoritarian regime against Iranian women." In a message from Tehran's notorious Evin Prison, Mohammadi on September 15, a day before the first anniversary of Amini's death, called for unity, urging Iranians to stand together in "revolutionary protest" and become symbols of dissent. She highlighted the Woman, Life, Freedom movement that erupted in the wake of the 22-year-old's death as a testament to the resilience of protesters and the waning authority of the "theocratic authoritarian regime." Amini died while in the custody of the morality police for an alleged head-scarf violation. Demonstrations against the Islamic regime over the incident quickly escalated, with the subsequent brutal government crackdown leading to the deaths of hundreds, including at least 64 teenagers and 34 women. Mohammadi, who has been imprisoned multiple times over the past decade for her civil rights activities, emphasized the nation's mourning due to the "massacre and execution of young people on the streets and in prisons." She said the violence against citizens has left the regime facing "disaster, disgust, and destabilizing fear." She further argued that the Islamic republic's increased repression is a sign of its "depths of humiliation" rather than its strength. As the regime expands its oppressive measures, it is, according to Mohammadi, sinking deeper into a "quagmire of illegitimacy." "The ultimate victory is certain," Mohammadi, who recently recent saw her prison sentence extended to a total of 10 years and nine months, along with an additional punishment of 154 lashes, said. Mohammadi has been vocal in protesting prison conditions, publishing numerous letters highlighting the state of prisons and violence against inmates, especially those detained during nationwide protests. Last year, in a letter addressed to Javaid Rehman, the UN special rapporteur on human rights in Iran, Mohammadi described the "assault on women during arrest and in detention centers" as part of the Islamic republic's "suppression program" against activist women. Written by Ardeshir Tayebi based on an original story in Persian by RFE/RL's Radio Farda Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-amini-death- mohammadi-weakness-regime/32594794.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova's comment regarding EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell's statement concerning the UK, Germany and France's plans to take steps contrary to UNSC Resolution 2231 15 September 2023 19:00 1782-15-09-2023 On September 14, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell released a statement as Coordinator of the JCPOA Joint Commission saying he had received a letter from the foreign ministers of the United Kingdom, Germany and France, who officially informed him of their intention not to take the steps regarding the lifting of sanctions stipulated by UN Security Council Resolution 2231 on JCPOA Transition Day on October 18, 2023. This is about provisions concerning Iran's missile programme as well as the freezing of assets belonging to a number of individuals and legal entities of the Islamic Republic of Iran. These requirements were not relevant to the deal on the Iranian nuclear programme and were therefore imposed on a temporary basis. They were not meant to be extended. To create the impression that their ploy does not violate UNSC Resolution 2231, Berlin, London and Paris referred to their January 2020 efforts to launch the Dispute Resolution Mechanism under Paragraph 36 of the JCPOA. The present statement by the two EU nations and the UK was not considered within the Joint Commission. No decisions have been taken by the JCPOA parties which could be interpreted as consent or a green light. From the legal perspective, the course of actions they have outlined is arbitrary and shows that they have lost interest in restoring full implementation of the JCPOA and are unwilling to rectify the violations of UNSC Resolution 2231 they committed. References to the Dispute Resolution Mechanism are intended for the uninformed public and should not mislead anyone. This mechanism is known not to have been activated due to the absence of necessary procedures and decisions of the Joint Commission. Without clarity on this issue, it has proved impossible to start the clock and begin work within the framework of the Mechanism. The Russian side has clarified this sensitive issue on numerous occasions and in the most detailed manner, including on January 14 and 24, 2020. Thus, the claims of our European colleagues that they have fulfilled the requirements of paragraph 36 of the JCPOA are not true. We strongly condemn the United Kingdom, Germany and France for seeking to deliberately violate the requirements of the JCPOA and United Nations Security Council Resolution 2231. If they get their way, it will deal a crushing blow to the prospects for restoring the nuclear deal. However, we would not like to think that the European attacks were more than accidental, given that they came at the exact moment when certain prerequisites appeared for intensifying efforts to restart the JCPOA, created by developments in the indirect dialogue between Iran and the United States. We urge the European parties to the JCPOA to immediately reverse their destructive course and adhere to their international obligations in strict compliance with UNSC Resolution 2231. The expectation that they will be able to remould the expired requirements of the resolution and turn them into a new sanctions regime against Iran is absolutely illusory. Contrary to Western speculation, the resolution does not prohibit cooperation with Tehran in the missile sphere; such cooperation is allowed provided that supplies are approved by the UN Security Council. Berlin, London and Paris mistakenly interpreted this as an embargo, confident in their ability to block supplies that do not suit them. From October 18, everything will be back to normal. We proceed from the premise that illegal and opportunistic decisions of individual countries taken at the national level cannot have legal consequences for other states. We condemn the vicious practice of unilateral sanctions and their extraterritorial application - an ugly manifestation of the "rules-based world order" promoted by the West. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address United States Imposes Sanctions on the Anniversary of Mahsa "Zhina" Amini's Death US Department of State Press Statement Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State September 15, 2023 On the eve of the first anniversary of the death of Mahsa "Zhina" Amini at the hands of Iranian security forces, the United States is designating 25 Iranian individuals, three Iranian state-backed media outlets, and one Iranian internet research firm in connection with the Iranian regime's violent suppression of nationwide protests following her death. We are taking this action in coordination with the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and other partners who are also imposing sanctions this week. This is the United States' 13th round of sanctions designations in response to the regime's brutal crackdown on protests. The United States is also taking steps to impose visa restrictions on 13 Iranian officials and other individuals for their involvement in the detention or killing of peaceful protestors or the inhibition of their rights to freedom of expression or assembly. Since Mahsa Amini's death and the protests that followed, we have pursued visa restrictions on 40 Iranian officials and other individuals for their involvement in these acts targeting peaceful protestors. One year ago, Mahsa's tragic and senseless death in the custody of Iran's so-called "Morality Police" sparked demonstrations across Iran that were met with unspeakable violence, mass arrests, systemic internet disruptions and censorship by the Iranian regime. We will continue to take appropriate action, alongside our international partners, to hold accountable those who suppress Iranians' exercise of human rights. Today's sanctions actions are taken pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13553, which imposes sanctions on certain persons with respect to serious human rights abuses by the Government of Iran; E.O. 13846, which authorizes sanctions on persons who engage in censorship or other activities with respect to Iran; and the counterterrorism authority E.O. 13224, as amended. For more information on these designations, see Treasury's press release. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Treasury Sanctions Iranian Officials and Companies Connected to Repression in Advance of the Anniversary of Mahsa "Zhina" Amini's Death U.S. Department of the Treasury September 15, 2023 WASHINGTON -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is designating 29 individuals and entities in connection with the Iranian regime's violent suppression of nationwide protests following the death of Mahsa "Zhina" Amini in custody of its 'Morality Police,' and the regime's continued efforts to detain dissenting voices and restrict access to a free and open internet. OFAC's action targets: 18 key members of the regime's security forces, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Law Enforcement Forces (LEF); the head of Iran's Prisons Organization; three individuals and one company in connection with the regime's systematic censorship and blocking of access to the internet; and three IRGC and regime-controlled media outlets--Fars News, Tasnim News and Press TV--and three senior officials. Today's action is taken in coordination with partners from the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and other partners who are also imposing sanctions on those involved in the Iranian regime's repression. "As we approach one year since Mahsa Amini's tragic and senseless death in the custody of Iran's so-called 'Morality Police,' we recall that the movement of men and women across Iran, inclusive of different faiths and ethnic groups, was met with horrific violence, mass incarceration, and systemic internet disruption by the Iranian regime," said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, Brian Nelson. "The United States, alongside the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and our other international allies and partners, will continue to take collective action against those who suppress Iranians' exercise of their human rights." Today's sanctions are OFAC's 13th round of designations in connection with the protests that began in September 2022 and are taken pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13553, which imposes sanctions on certain persons with respect to serious human rights abuses by the Government of Iran; E.O. 13846, which authorizes sanctions on persons who engage in censorship or other activities with respect to Iran; and the counterterrorism authority E.O. 13224, as amended. Concurrently, the Department of State is imposing visa restrictions on 13 Iranian officials and other individuals for their involvement in the detention or killing of peaceful protestors or inhibiting their rights to freedom of expression or assembly, including through censorship via a country-wide internet shutdown in Iran. Since Mahsa Amini's death and the protests that followed, the Department of State has imposed visa restrictions on 40 Iranian officials and other individuals for their involvement in acts targeting peaceful protestors. Leaders of Iran's Security Forces Iran's security forces cracked down on the peaceful protests that began in September 2022 with horrific violence, killing more than 500 and injuring many more. LEF, commonly referred to as Iran's national police, have historically played a key role in the regime's brutal crackdown on protests, including those following the disputed 2009 presidential election and the nationwide protests in November 2019 that followed a gasoline price hike, which resulted in the deaths of more than 1,500 protestors. The LEF has been linked to serious human rights abuses, such as the use of lethal force against peaceful protestors, including women and children, and the torture of detainees. The LEF has also led the crackdown on women and girls who have resisted Iran's mandatory hijab laws and expanded an intimidation campaign against businesses and companies for allegedly not enforcing these laws. The LEF was designated pursuant to E.O. 13553 on June 9, 2011 for being responsible for or complicit in serious human rights abuses in Iran since the June 2009 disputed presidential election. Saeed Montazerolmehdi (Montazerolmehdi)is Social Deputy and Spokesperson of the LEF. Montazerolmehdi has directly participated in the planning and announcement of strict LEF policies against women who disobey compulsory hijab rules. Hossein Amjadian (Amjadian) commands the LEF Special Unit in Tehran and previously commanded the LEF Special Unit in Isfahan Province from 2016 to 2019. The LEF Special Units are the regime's primary protest suppression force and have been responsible for serious human rights abuses throughout the country, including in November 2019 when security forces killed hundreds of Iranian protesters. The LEF Special Units were designated pursuant to E.O. 13553 on December 7, 2021 for being persons acting on behalf of the Government of Iran responsible for or complicit in, or responsible for ordering, controlling, or otherwise directing, the commission of serious human rights abuses against persons in Iran or Iranian citizens or residents, or the family members of the foregoing, on or after June 12, 2009, regardless of whether such abuses occurred in Iran. Abbasali Mohammadian (Mohammadian)is the LEF Commander of Tehran Province. Hassan Shahrestani (Shahrestani)is the LEF Commander of Mazandaran Province and was previously the head of Iran's Morality Police. Shahrestani reportedly instructed his subordinates to "break the neck of anyone" violating Iran's hijab rules, and reportedly warned that businesses whose employees removed their headscarves in the workplace face closure. Ahmad Taheri (Taheri)commanded LEF forces in Sistan and Baluchistan province from October 2020 to November 2022. During his tenure, Taheri was the commander of LEF forces involved in the September 30, 2022 massacre of protesters and civilians in Zahedan, the capital of Sistan and Baluchistan Province, now known as "Bloody Friday." On that day, the LEF and other security forces opened fire on protesters, killing by varying estimates between 60 and 100 people, including children, and wounding at least 350 others. Ahmad Naderian (Naderian) is the Deputy LEF Commander of Sistan and Baluchistan Province and was the deputy LEF Commander during Bloody Friday. Seyyed Khalil Safavi (Safavi)has commanded LEF forces in Rezvanshahr city in Gilan Province since February 2022. During his previous tenure as the LEF Commander of the city of Rasht in Gilan Province, forces under his command reportedly killed at least three individuals and injured several others during a September 21, 2022 demonstration. Delavar Alghasi-Mehr (Alghasi-Mehr)is the LEF Commander of East Tehran Province. He was previously the LEF Commander of Shiraz city from 2016 to 2019 and then the LEF Commander of Ilam Province. Mohammad Mozzami Goudarzi (Goudarzi)is the Commander of the Prevention Police of Tehran, a specialized branch of the LEF. During his previous tenure as Deputy LEF Chief of Karaj city in Alborz Province, Goudarzi was responsible for the brutal suppression of the November 2019 protests in Karaj. Goudarzi commanded forces who used lethal force resulting in the deaths of at least ten protesters. Roham Bakhsh Habibi (Habibi)is the LEF Commander of Fars Province. During his previous tenure as LEF Commander in Fars Province, forces under Habibi's control reportedly participated in the violent suppression of protests in November 2019. Montazerolmehdi, Amjadian, Mohammadian, Shahrestani, Taheri, Naderian, Safavi, Alghasi-Mehr, Goudarzi, and Habibi are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13553 for having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Iran's LEF. The IRGC has also played a critical role in the regime's efforts to violently suppress protests. IRGC units have used lethal force against peaceful protestors, subjected political opponents of the regime to beatings and electrocutions, prevented medical equipment and aid from reaching the wounded in hospitals, and committed numerous other heinous acts against the people of Iran. Treasury designated the IRGC pursuant to E.O. 13553 on June 9, 2011, and E.O. 13606 on April 23, 2012, in connection with the IRGC's human rights abuses. Khodarahm Sarani (Sarani) is the IRGC Commander in Zahedan. In February 2021, IRGC forces under Sarani's command reportedly used lethal force against unarmed protesters in Zahedan, resulting in the deaths and injuries of a number of protesters, including a 13-year-old child. The IRGC also opened fire on fuel couriers protesting the IRGC-directed closing of a border crossing, killing at least 10 couriers. Mazaher Majidi (Majidi) is the IRGC Commander in Hamedan Province and oversees units involved in protest suppression. Security forces in the province have used lethal force against protestors. Majidi publicly announced that in October 2022 alone, over 700 protestors were arrested in Hamedan Province. Bahman Reyhani (Reyhani) is the IRGC Commander of Kermanshah Province and the Nabi Akram Corps. Reyhani commanded unitsreportedly tasked with suppressing dissent and protests, which they did brutally during the November 2019 protests throughout Iran; 1,230 people were reportedly arrested in Kermanshah during the November 2019. He also reportedly commanded IRGC units that attacked civilians protesting in Javanroud following the death of Mahsa Amini. Jamal Shakarami (Shakarami) is an IRGC Commander in Ilam Province, an area where the IRGC has played a crucial role in suppressing dissidents and protests. On June 1, 2023, at least 20 people were injured in Ilam Province when security forces opened fire on crowds protesting the mysterious death of an individual after he was released from prison. Mohammad Abdollahpour (Abdollahpour) is the Commander of Gilan Quds Brigade, a provincial branch of the IRGC. Abdollahpour participated in the enforcement of harsh police policies against women who disobeyed Iran's mandatory hijab rules. He also reportedly supervised the IRGC's suppression of protests following the death of Mahsa Amini. Gholamhossein Gheib-Parvar (Gheib-Parvar)is the Deputy Commander of the IRGC in the Central Security headquarters of Imam Ali Security base. Ali Akbar Pourjamshidian (Pourjamshidian) is the Commander of Hamzeh Seyyed al- Shohada Base of the IRGC Ground Forces and was previously the deputy coordinator of the IRGC Ground Forces. Abdolreza Abedzadeh (Abedzadeh) is the newly appointed Commander of the U.S.-designated Khatam ol Anbia Gharargah Sazandegi Nooh (Khatam al-Anbiya Construction Headquarters), an IRGC-controlled construction conglomerate that undertakes multi-billion-dollar projects in the oil, petrochemical, and various infrastructure sectors, generating revenue for the IRGC and expanding its control across multiple industries. Abdollahpour, Gheib-Parvar, Sarani, Pourjamshidian, Shakarami, Reyhani, and Majidiare being designated pursuant to E.O. 13553 having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, the IRGC. Abedzadeh is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for having acted for or on behalf of Khatam ol Anbia Gharargah Sazandegi Nooh. Mass Detention, Torture, Other Ill-Treatment, and Sexual Violence in Iran's Prisons In addition to the use of lethal force by security forces, the Iranian regime's response to the nationwide protests included mass arrests and detention, with protestors subject to various forms of mistreatment and abuse within Iran's prison system. Tens of thousands of people, including children as young as 12, have been arrested, with many enduring brutal treatment while in custody. Detainees have been subjected to beatings, rape, and torture or other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment. More recently, in anticipation of the anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death, Iranian authorities have proactively arrested activists in an effort to dissuade others from resuming anti-government protests. Gholamali Mohammadi (Mohammadi)heads Iran's Prisons Organization, a role in which he oversees the administration of all affairs related to Iran's prisons and jails. Under his leadership, serious human rights abuses have occurred throughout Iranian prisons, including the use of torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, detainment and physical abuse of political dissidents and religious minorities, sexual violence and coercion against female prisoners, including rape, and the abuse and torture of children. Under Mohammadi's leadership, Iranian prison authorities have deliberately denied lifesaving healthcare to political prisoners, causing or contributing to deaths in custody, and have refused to investigate or provide any accountability for the deaths. Mohammadi is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13553 for being an official of the Government of Iran or a person acting on behalf of the Government of Iran who is responsible for or complicit in, or responsible for ordering, controlling, or otherwise directing, the commission of serious human rights abuses against persons in Iran or Iranian citizens or residents, or the family members of the foregoing, on or after June 12, 2009, regardless of whether such abuses occurred in Iran. Internet Disruption and Censorship Another pillar of the regime's strategy for protest suppression has been the widespread disruption of internet access. In addition to longstanding media censorship, Iranian authorities have responded to protests with widespread internet shutdowns, throttling connection speeds, and increasing the use of Internet filtering, such as blocking websites and Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to limit communication and the sharing of information. Iran has also used digital technology to spy on and harass journalists and regime dissidents. Alireza Abedinejad is the CEO of Douran Software Technologies (Douran), a leading company in Iran assisting the government in censorship and filtering of the Internet. Douran was designated pursuant to E.O. 13628 in 2014 for engaging in censorship or other activities that limit Iranians' ability to exercise their freedom of expression and right to peaceful assembly since the June 2009 election. In coordination with the Committee to Determine Instances of Criminal Content (CDICC) a also known as the Iranian Filtering Committee a Douran blocks VPNs in Iran for the regime and acts as a "filtering contractor" for government agencies. A Douran subsidiary is also one of the leading providers of software in the development of Iran's intranet, also known as the National Information Network (NIN). Amer Najafianpour and Soheila Kasaei are the Chair and Vicechair of Douran's Board of Directors, respectively. Under their leadership, Douran has expanded its operations and played a critical role in the government's censorship operations, specifically in blocking VPNs and other internet circumvention tools. Abedinejad, Najafianpour, and Kasaei are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13846 for having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Douran Software Technologies. Like Douran, Iran's Yaftar Pazhohan Pishtaz Rayanesh (Yaftar) works with the CDICC to design and implement tools to "crawl" through the world's leading search engines to identify and censor video and textual content that the CDICC deems criminal. Yaftar has also worked with the Iranian Attorney General's Office to block VPNs. Yaftar is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13846 for having engaged in censorship or other activities with respect to Iran on or after June 12, 2009, that prohibit, limit, or penalize the exercise of freedom of expression or assembly by citizens of Iran, or that limit access to print or broadcast media. State-Controlled Media Organizations Iran's state-controlled media has played a key role in the regime's suppression of protests, including those following the death of Mahsa Amini. Many of these organizations work in tandem with Iranian security and intelligence services, blurring the lines between government and media and extending the regime's oppressive reach. Press TV is the English language channel for the state broadcaster of the Iranian government, Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), which was designated by the United States in 2013 for participating in censorship. Press TV has broadcasted scores of forced confessions and derogatory programs about Iranian activists, in many cases broadcasting forced confessions before detainee trials. Press TV has also been used by Iranian intelligence services to recruit sensitive assets, including U.S. persons. Press TV is being designed pursuant to E.O. 13846 for being owned or controlled by, directly or indirectly, the IRIB. Tasnim News Agency (Tasnim) is a news outlet founded by two IRGC commanders, Majid Gholizadeh and Hamidreza Moghadam Far, who continue to serve as Tasnim executives and exert control over Tasnim on behalf of the IRGC. Tasnim has supported the IRGC and other instruments of the regime in various ways, including suppressing dissent by helping the IRGC, Iran's Ministry of Intelligence and Security, and LEF to crowdsource the identities of protestors. Majid Gholizadeh, a former IRGC Commander, is Tasnim's CEO, an important spokesperson for the news agency, and IRGC propagandist. Hamidreza Moghadam Far is the head of the Tasnim board of directors and an IRGC Commander. Hamidreza Moghadam Far has held multiple prominent roles in the IRGC, including as an advisor to IRGC Commander-in-Chief Hossein Salami and the Cultural Deputy of the IRGC. Tasnim is being designated pursuant to E.O 13553 for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, the IRGC. Hamidreza Moghadam Far is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13553 for acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, the IRGC. Majid Gholizadeh is being designated for having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Tasnim News Agency. Fars News Agency is closely affiliated with the IRGC and has provided special intelligence reports to Hossein Salami. Fars News Agency closely coordinated with the Basij Resistance Force (Basij) deputy commander on ongoing Iranian domestic concerns. The Basij, a paramilitary force subordinate to the IRGC, was designated pursuant to E.O. 13553 on June 9, 2011 for its involvement in the violent crackdowns and serious human rights abuses occurring in Iran following the disputed June 2009 presidential election. Fars News Agency was also founded by Hamidreza Moghadam Far, and its board of directors is chaired by Mohammad Mehdi Sayyari Zahan, the U.S.-designated deputy head of the IRGC Intelligence Organization. Payam Tirandaz is the CEO of Fars News Agency, a former member of the Basij, and a former employee of IRIB. Payam Tirandaz plays a pivotal role in Fars News Agency's support to the IRGC's malign activities. Fars News Agency is being designated pursuant to E.O 13553, for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of the IRGC. Payam Tirandaz is being designated for having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Fars News Agency. SANCTIONS IMPLICATIONS As a result of today's action, all property and interests in property of the individuals and entities that are in the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. persons must be blocked and reported to OFAC. OFAC's sanctions generally prohibit all dealings by U.S. persons or within the United States (including transactions transiting the United States) that involve any property or interests in property of blocked or designated persons. In addition, persons that engage in certain transactions with the individuals or entities designated today may themselves be exposed to designation. Furthermore, any foreign financial institution that knowingly facilitates a significant transaction or provides significant financial services for any of the individuals or entities designated today could be subject to U.S. correspondent or payable-through account sanctions. The power and integrity of OFAC sanctions derive not only from its ability to designate and add persons to the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List (SDN List), but also from its willingness to remove persons from the SDN List consistent with the law. The ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish, but to bring about a positive change in behavior. For information concerning the process for seeking removal from an OFAC list, including the SDN List, please refer to OFAC's Frequently Asked Question 897. Click here for identifying information on the individuals and entities designated today. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'I commend their bravery': Foreign Secretary recognises bravery of Iranian people on anniversary of Mahsa Amini death The Foreign Secretary has commended the bravery of Iranian women a year on from Mahsa Amini's death and announced coordinated sanctions on the regime. 15 September 2023 Bravery of Iranian women commended by UK Foreign Secretary on anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death as he underlines the UK's commitment to standing with the Iranian people as they call for fundamental rights. UK, US, Canada andAustralia announce coordinated sanctions on Iranian officials to mark anniversary. UK sanctions focus on senior decision makers responsible for enforcing Iran's mandatory hijab law, including the Minister for Culture and Islamic Guidance, the Mayor of Tehran and the Iranian Police spokesperson. The Foreign Secretary has commended the bravery of the Iranian people a year on from the death of Mahsa Amini in the custody of the Morality Police. Marking the anniversary tomorrow, the UK, US, Canada and Australia have imposed coordinated sanctions on Iranian officials and entities. The UK's sanctions focus on senior Iranian decision makers responsible for drafting and implementing Iran's mandatory hijab legislation. Iran's existing legislation prohibits women and girls from choosing what they wear, with punishments for refusing to wear a hijab including time in prison and severe fines. Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said: A year on from Mahsa Amini's tragic death at the hands of Iran's Morality Police, I commend the bravery of Iranian women as they continue to fight for fundamental freedoms. Today's sanctions on those responsible for Iran's oppressive laws send a clear message that the UK and our partners will continue to stand with Iranian women and call out the repression it is inflicting on its own people. Today's sanctions include: Mohammad Mehdi Esmaili - Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance. Mohammad Hashemi - Deputy Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance. Alireza Zakani - Mayor of Tehran. Saeed Montazer Al-Mahdi - Iranian Police Spokesman. The Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance is responsible for ensuring adherence to government dress codes within Iranian society. As examples, Esmaili declared that actresses who remove the hijab in public or social media can no longer continue their careers in acting, and that action would be taken against businesses whose female employees failed to adhere to mandatory hijab requirements. The Police Spokesperson Al-Mahdi threatened that the regime will 'deal firmly' with those women who removed their hijab, including for example by impounding the cars of women caught driving without hijab. The Morality Police's activities reduced following the outbreak of protests after Mahsa Amini's death and a raft of international sanctions, including by the UK, but earlier this year its forces have reappeared as part of a renewed crackdown on women in Iran. This has included specific punishments against women for failing to wear the hijab, including being prevented from using the Tehran Metro, and female actors banned from working by the Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance. The UK has imposed sanctions on more than 350 Iranian officials and entities, including the Prosecutor General and the IRGC in its entirety, and announced its intention to create a new sanctions regime earlier this year to target decision makers in Iran for hostile activities in the UK and around the world. The UK has previously sanctioned the Supreme Council of the Cultural Revolution, responsible for women's dress codes in Iran. Since Mahsa Amini's death, the Iranian regime has been increasingly isolated by the international community, and faced growing sanctions' pressure in response to serious human rights violations against its own people, and supply of UAV related technology to Russia for use in Ukraine. In December 2022, Iran was removed from the UN Commission on the Status of Women. Further information The UK has also today sanctioned Arvan Cloud, an internet cloud service provider which is responsible for providing technology used to repress the Iranian people. Arvan Cloud is a key partner of Iran's Information and Communications Technology Ministry and is supporting the development of a countrywide intranet that is being used to disconnect the Iranian people from the global internet. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Expects American Dual Nationals Held in Iran to Leave in Coming Days By Farhad Pouladi September 15, 2023 The U.S. hopes that with the transfer of blocked Iranian funds from banks in South Korea to Qatar completed, the five Iranian Americans held in the Islamic Republic will be home "in the coming days." In an interview with VOA Persian's Farhad Pouladi, John Kirby, the National Security Council's coordinator for strategic communications, also spoke about U.S. support for the Iranian people on the eve of the first anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death while in the custody of Iran's morality police. Kirby also answered questions about Haiti and the flood of migrants in New York City. This transcript has been edited for clarity and brevity. Farhad Pouladi, VOA Persian's White House Correspondent: Thank you, Admiral, for doing this. So, we are coming to the first anniversary of the death of Mahsa Amini in the custody of Iran's morality police. What more can the United States do to support the Iranian people in their struggle for freedom? John Kirby, National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications: Well, look, we've laid out some additional sanctions here just this week. We've got many, many sanctions in place against Iranian leaders, particularly those that were involved in her death and in the persecution and violence against protesters in Iran. We stand for the Iranian people, and we stand for their right to protest peacefully, and to speak for themselves and for their desires and what they want to see out of the government in Tehran. Our beef is not with them. In fact, we're standing solidly behind them. VOA: Has there been any recent contact with the Americans that are coming home? I mean, do you have ... a time frame [for] when the Americans are coming home, and has the Swiss Embassy, which is representing the U.S., had any contact with them? Do you have any updates on their physical and mental situation? Kirby: We have, through the Swiss protecting power, we have been able to maintain contact with all the Americans that are in house arrest. From what we can tell, they appear to be in good health. We'll obviously want to make sure that they have appropriate access to medical care when they get out of the country. I'm not at liberty to talk about the timing here. The next critical step in the process was to move the funds from South Korea to Qatar, and now the next step coming is going to be seeing if we can get them home. We hope that that will happen in the coming days, but I just don't have any specific updates. VOA: The EU3 a Britain, France and Germany a announced yesterday they will retain sanctions on Iran that were scheduled to expire after October 18 under the 2015 nuclear deal known as the JCPOA. So why not trigger the snapback mechanism in the agreement, which would keep all the U.N. sanctions in place? Kirby: I just don't have anything with respect to snapback to speak to today. Again, we're not focused right now on getting back into the JCPOA. That's not on the agenda right now. We're doing everything we can to get our Americans home and to continue to hold Iran accountable for their destabilizing behavior. VOA: Any update on the increased U.S. naval presence in the Persian Gulf in order to deter Iranian naval and air transgressions? Because today we had a report that two new tankers have been seized by Iran. Kirby: Again, I would refer you to the Pentagon on that. I know we have bolstered some of our military presence in and around the Gulf for exactly that reason, to respond to and to try to deter attacks on shipping. This is yet another piece of destabilizing behavior that the Iranians continue to conduct that we've got to make sure that we've got the capabilities and resources to deter that as much as possible. VOA: Is the U.S. involved in the process of Kenya sending a police force to Haiti, and where does the U.S. stand on that? Kirby: We're grateful for Kenya's willingness to do that. We have long said we believe that some sort of policing force, international policing force, would be appropriate. And obviously it has to be acceptable to the people of Haiti. But the violence has got to stop and the instability has got to stop. VOA: The U.N. General Assembly is hosted in the city of New York, whose mayor said the city is facing a profound crisis with thousands of migrants that need attention from the president. What is the U.S. doing about it? Kirby: New York City wouldn't be under this pressure if governors in other parts of the country weren't shipping migrants without any regard for their care to cities in the North. We understand that there's pressure being applied there. We're going to continue to do everything we can, as I've said many times before, to improve legal pathways into the country and to shore up our security efforts at the border to dissuade illegal immigrants from coming in. Part of that is, of course, making sure that the Border Patrol has the resources that they need, and we have added to their resources. We still have U.S. military troops down there bolstering their efforts. The president has asked Congress for additional funds for more Border Patrol agents. And on day one of this administration, he submitted an immigration reform bill that Congress has yet to act on. So, we will continue to do everything we can, within the authorities that we have, to shore up the border to make sure that legal pathways are expanded, to discourage people from taking that dangerous, dangerous journey without having to apply for legal entry, and to make sure our brave Border Patrol agents have the resources that they need. VOA: Admiral, thank you very much for your time. Thank you. Kirby: My pleasure. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Statement from President Joe Biden on the Anniversary of Mahsa Amini's Death and Iran's Brutal Crackdown September 15, 2023 On the occasion of the anniversary of Mahsa "Zhina" Amini's death tomorrow, Jill and I join people around the world in remembering heraand every brave Iranian citizen who has been killed, wounded or imprisoned by the Iranian regime for peacefully demanding democracy and their basic human dignity. As we have seen over the last year, Mahsa's story did not end with her brutal death. She inspired a historic movementaWoman, Life, Freedomathat has impacted Iran and influenced people across the globe who are tirelessly advocating for gender equality and respect for their human rights. In the face of continued oppression and violence, the citizens of Iran remain committed to this movement and to their fight for a free and democratic future. Iranians alone will determine the fate of their country, but, the United States remains committed to standing with themaincluding providing tools to support Iranians' ability to advocate for their own future. And, we will continue to speak out against all forms of gender-based violence against women and girls everywhere, including women human rights defenders who are so often targeted for using their voices. Over the last year, the United States has responded to the calls of the Iranian people and organized an unprecedented diplomatic campaign that led to the Iranian government's removal from the UN Commission on the Status of Women, and the creation of a UN fact-finding mission to investigate their human rights abuses. We have helped a growing number of human rights activists find safe haven in the United States. We made it easier for Iranians to access the internet: at the height of the protests, 30 million Iraniansanearly one in threeawere using U.S.-supported anti-censorship tools. We have also sanctioned over 70 Iranian individuals and entities responsible for supporting the regime's oppression of its people. And today, we are announcing additional sanctions targeting some of Iran's most egregious human rights abusers. Todayaas we remember Mahsa's tragic deathawe reaffirm our commitment to the courageous people of Iran who are carrying on her mission. They are inspiring the world with their resilience and resolve. And together with our allies and partners, we stand with them. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran: Decision to withdraw IAEA inspectors' designation based on Safeguards Agreement IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Sep 16, 2023 Tehran, IRNA -- Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kana'ani has said that the latest move by his country to withdraw the designation of several experienced IAEA inspectors was based on the Islamic Republic's governance rights enshrined in the Safeguards Agreement between the two sides. Kana'ani made the comment on Saturday hours after the International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Grossi condemned Iran for what he called its "unilateral measure" to withdraw the designation of several inspectors of the UN nuclear watchdog. Grossi claimed that Iran's measure "affects the normal planning and conduct of the IAEA verification activities" in the Islamic Republic. Reacting to Grossi's statement, the spokesman said that Iran had taken the measure based on the governance rights given to the country in Article 9 of the text of an agreement between the country and the agency for the application of safeguards in connection with the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). Kana'ani also said that Iran has maintained its positive and constructive cooperation with the IAEA. But despite that, he added, the UK, France, Germany and the US, through their excessive demands and with the aim of destroying cooperation between Iran and the IAEA, misused the agency's Board of Governors for their own political purposes. Iran has already warned against the consequences of "political misuses" including attempts to politicize the environment of the UN nuclear watchdog, he said. The Iranian official added that the Islamic Republic expects Western states to refrain from the policy of misusing international organizations, including the IAEA, and allow these bodies to conduct their professional and impartial activities without political pressures. Kana'ani said that Iran will continue its positive cooperation within its agreements with the IAEA, while stressing the need for the agency to act impartially. 4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address EU to see repercussions of unconstructive behavior: Iran spox IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Sep 16, 2023 Tehran, IRNA -- Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kanaai condemned the illegal and non-diplomatic actions of the US and certain European states, and said that the European politicians should admit that the continuation of these non-constructive behaviors is not in their interest. The Iranian foreign ministry spokesman made the comments in reaction to Friday's actions of a few Europeans countries and the US, which, in addition to issuing interventionist statements, was also accompanied by the announcement of sanctions against some officials, Iranian news media and their managing editors. "Unfortunately, some parties who have dark historical records and a failed track record with regard to the issue of human and women's rights, in a concerted manner and in a desperate attempt to create sedition in the Islamic Republic of Iran, publish worthless political statements and beat the drum of repeated and ineffective sanctions," Kanaani said. He pointed out that countries that continuously commit the most severe violence against their citizens, especially women, as well as minorities, people of color, natives and immigrants, and have never had the courage to protest and condemn the daily crimes of the Zionist regime, do not have the right to shed crocodile tears towards the Iranian nation. Kanaani said that these countries' hosting of hateful and criminal figures and groups such as the MKO terrorist group, whose hands are stained with the blood of thousands of innocent people of Iran and Iraq, inviting them to hold rallies and giving them a platform, shows that the claims such as supporting the rights of the people of Iran are bunch of lies. He pointed out that it is better for European politicians to accept the fact as soon as possible that the continuation of these non-constructive behaviors is not in their interests in any way, and a new policy based on respect for the great and civilized nation of Iran, the national sovereignty of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the security and common interests of the parties should be adopted. 2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US, E3 misused IAEA to achieve own political objectives: Iran Foreign Ministry Iran Press TV Saturday, 16 September 2023 6:15 PM Iran says the United States and the three European parties to a 2015 nuclear agreement have abused the UN nuclear watchdog with the purpose of achieving their own political objectives. Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kan'ani made the statement on Saturday in response to the latest claim made by Director General Rafael Grossi of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) earlier in the day against Iran. In his statement, Grossi condemned what he called Iran's "disproportionate and unprecedented" move to withdraw the designation of the agency's several "most experienced" inspectors assigned to conduct verification activities in the country under the NPT Safeguards Agreement. He said Iran's unilateral measure affects the IAEA's "normal planning and conduct" verification activities in the country and "openly contradicts the cooperation that should exist between the Agency and Iran." "Unfortunately, despite Iran's positive, constructive and continuous interaction with the IAEA, the three European countries and the United States abused the Agency's Board of Governors for their own political purposes with ... the aim of damaging the atmosphere of cooperation between Iran and the Agency," Kan'ani said, referring to the three European countries of France, Britain and Germany. He said Iran has previously warned against the consequences of such efforts to politicize the UN nuclear agency. The spokesman reiterated that Iran made the decision in accordance with Article 9 of the agreement between the Islamic Republic and the IAEA for the application of safeguards in connection with the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. Kan'ani once again urged the Western countries to stop abusing international organizations, including the IAEA, and allow such world bodies to carry out their "professional and neutral" activities under no political pressure. He, however, said Iran emphasizes the need for the IAEA's impartiality and will continue its positive cooperation based on bilateral agreement. On Wednesday, the IAEA's Board of Governors issued a Western-sponsored statement which accused Iran of non-compliance with its safeguards commitments. The document, signed by 62 member states of the agency, called upon Iran to take steps to address outstanding safeguards issues and provide the IAEA with information concerning its new nuclear facilities. Separately on Wednesday, the three European signatories of the 2015 nuclear deal, France, Britain and Germany, also issued a joint statement on the sidelines of the meeting of the IAEA's Board of Governors. They accused Iran of non-compliance with the nuclear deal, officially called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), even though it was the United States that unilaterally abandoned the deal in 2018 and put its fate in limbo. Kan'ani rejected the politically-motivated statement, saying Iran and the IAEA have made "considerable progress" in boosting cooperation based on a joint statement issued in March. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia blasts renewed Iran sanctions, urges E3 to honor Security Council resolution Iran Press TV Saturday, 16 September 2023 11:21 AM Moscow has censured a recent decision by Britain, France, and Germany to retain their nuclear- and ballistic missile-related sanctions against Iran in violation of a 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and major world powers. "Moscow strongly condemns the intention of Britain, Germany and France to deliberately violate the requirements of the JCPOA and UN Security Council Resolution 2231," Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said in a statement on Saturday, referring to the nuclear deal by its official acronym. Zakharova underlined that the decision by the Europeans was made out of anger, exactly at a time when certain conditions had been created for the "revival of the JCPOA" through progress in indirect negotiations between Iran and the United States. "We strongly call on the European parties to the JCPOA to immediately change their destructive path and fully comply with their international obligations by strictly complying with UN Security Council Resolution 2231," Zakharova added. It came after the three European signatories to the Iran nuclear deal announced that they intended to keep in place the sanctions, which were due to expire next month. In their announcement on Thursday, the European countries cited three reasons for their decision, including allegations that Iran has transferred drones to Russia for use in the Ukraine war and the likelihood that Tehran might provide Moscow with ballistic missiles. The Islamic Republic has roundly rejected both the allegations, citing its principled opposition to the war. The three European countries also accused Iran of violating the JCPOA, referring to a number of legal nuclear countermeasures that the Islamic Republic began to take after the United States illegally left the JCPOA in 2018 and the three states failed to offer any compensation for the US withdrawal. This is while Iran began the countermeasures in line with the JCPOA's Articles 26 and 36 allowing the deal's participants to scale back their commitments should the other parties do the same. Moreover, the Islamic Republic launched the retaliatory steps after giving Washington and the E3 a year to compensate for their violations of the JCPOA. Iran proved the peaceful nature of its nuclear program to the world by signing the JCPOA with six world powers. However, Washington's exit in May 2018 and its subsequent re-imposition of sanctions against Tehran left the future of the deal in limbo. Multilateral diplomatic efforts to revive the JCPOA have also been stalled since last August, with Iran blaming the United States for failing to guarantee that it will not leave the deal again. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran can retaliate against US theft of its oil on 'larger scale': Defense minister Iran Press TV Saturday, 16 September 2023 10:47 AM Iran's defense minister has rebuked the US government's seizure of one million barrels of Iranian crude, warning that the Islamic Republic is fully capable of retaliating "on a larger scale" in due time. The US Department of Justice confirmed on September 8 that it had seized the Marshall Islands-flagged tanker carrying Iranian oil, named Suez Rajan, and its cargo of 980,000 barrels of crude oil off the coast of Texas. The department claimed that Suez Rajan was in April transporting Iranian oil to China in violation of Washington's sanctions against Tehran. It also said the US government had obtained a warrant earlier this year for its seizure. "This is an act of theft by the United States, which is not acceptable across the world whatsoever," Defense Minister Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Ashtiani stated. Speaking with ISNA, Ashtiani warned that if Washington goes ahead with stealing the Iranian oil cargo, "we will definitely retaliate, and we can react on a larger scale." "But for now, we have limited our action to the discussions we are engaged in," he said, stressing that Iran expects the Americans to stop such actions. "We are located in a strategic and very important region. The energy transmission lines pass through this region, and we have control over these lines. Therefore, it is possible for us to take countermeasures against the US on a larger scale." For months, American oil firms had resisted the temptation of touching the 800,000-barrel tanker for fear of Iranian retaliation in the Persian Gulf waters. Still, the US Navy later unloaded the tanker of stolen Iranian oil worth around $56 million off the Texas port, brushing off warnings from the Islamic Republic. Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kan'ani described the US move at the time as contradictory and said Tehran had summoned the Swiss ambassador to the ministry in this regard. Under the guise of "sanctions-enforcement operations," the United States has in recent years seized foreign vessels carrying Iranian oil across the world. Back in February 2021, the Americans seized a tanker carrying Iranian oil off the coast of the Emirati city of Fujairah and sold more than a million barrels of oil confiscated from it for $110 million, or $55 a barrel. Also, in May last year, Greek authorities confiscated a Russia-operated ship, the Pegas, carrying Iranian oil off the shore of Karystos near Greece. Despite US pressures on Greece to dispatch the oil cargo to the US, a Greek court ruled against the move, and as a result, the seizure was lifted and the ship was allowed to resume its voyage in August. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran rejects 'phony charges' of violating UN resolution on arms supply Iran Press TV Saturday, 16 September 2023 6:52 AM The permanent mission of Iran to the United Nations has categorically rejected the "absurd" and "unfounded" claims raised by the United States that Tehran has sold drones to Russia for use in the Ukraine war. The Iranian UN mission, in two identical letters addressed to UN Secretary-General AntAnio Guterres and rotating President of the Security Council Ferit Hoxha, said Washington's cynical attempt to establish an illusory link between the alleged use of drones in the Ukraine conflict and the UN Security Council Resolution 2231 (2015) to accuse Tehran of violating the resolution is "misleading and entirely unfounded." The resolution prohibits countries from receiving ballistic missiles and drones from Iran that have a range of more than 300 kilometers and a payload of more than 500 kilograms until October 2023. The anti-Iran claims first emerged in July 2022, when US national security adviser Jake Sullivan alleged that Washington had received "information" indicating that the Islamic Republic was preparing to provide Russia with "up to several hundred drones, including weapons-capable UAVs on an expedited timeline" for use in the war. "The Islamic Republic of Iran has rejected these unfounded and absurd allegations on several occasions and through various communications to the UN Security Council and the UN secretary-general, including a letter dated August 17, 2023 (S/2023/610). All of these phony charges are once again rejected," Iran's diplomatic mission added. It said the US seeks not only to intentionally mislead the international community, but also to manipulate the mandate of the United Nations Secretariat for the sole purpose of serving its own political interests regardless of its ongoing and flagrant violations of Resolution 2231. "We underscore once more that the United States' repeated and unjustified request to the Secretariat to conduct the so-called investigation into the alleged violation of Resolution 2231 lacks a legal basis. Neither Resolution 2231 nor the relevant Note by the President of the Security Council (S/2016/44) authorize such an unlawful mandate," the mission pointed out. It called upon the Secretariat of the United Nations to diligently fulfill its mandate, as outlined in the note of the President of the Security Council (S/2016/44), resist yielding to the influence exerted by the United States and certain member states with regard to Article 100 of the UN Charter, and refrain from legitimizing baseless and politically motivated claims lacking proper substantiation. The mission categorically rejected the identical baseless allegations made against Tehran by certain Security Council member states during the UN Security Council briefings under the so-called "Maintenance of peace and security of Ukraine" and "Threats to international peace and security" agenda items, held on July 21 and 26, August 17 and September 12, as well as an unwarranted reference made to Iran in a joint statement by the US and certain states on August 30 regarding North Korea. The Islamic Republic of Iran reiterates that it "has consistently upheld its commitments under international law and the UN Charter, and maintains a clear and consistent position on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine," the diplomatic mission noted. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran Briefly Detains Amini's Father After Scattered Protests, Arrests On Death Anniversary By RFE/RL's Radio Farda September 16, 2023 Iranian authorities briefly detained the father of the 22-year-old woman whose death in custody exactly one year ago sparked a year of dramatic anti-regime protests that have persisted despite a brutal crackdown. Amjad Amini, the late Mahsa Amini's father, was detained outside his home on September 16 and taken to the Intelligence Ministry in his hometown of Saghez for interrogation, RFE/RL's Radio Farda has learned. Sources close to the matter later told Radio Farda that Amjad Amini had been sent home after questioning but has been told that he and other family members are not allowed to leave their house for the day. He was told that he and his family are not allowed to leave their house today. Their house has been surrounded by security forces who have blocked the street to ward off public signs of dissent. Meanwhile, official Iranian media reported arrests of groups accused of plotting disruption or contributing to "hostile media" on the anniversary, and Iran's president preceded the day by meeting with the families of troops reportedly killed since the unrest began. IRNA news agency said authorities arrested an undisclosed number of people among groups "planning to create chaos" or contributing to reports for "hostile media," AFP reported. It identified three areas of Iran -- the northwest, the south, and Amini's home province, Kurdistan -- where arrests were made. IRNA reported on September 16 that a fire was started by female inmates burning their clothes in a prison ward at the Qarchak jail near Tehran. It said the blaze was quickly put out by guards, and it wasn't immediately clear if the action was a protest related the anniversary of Amini's death. IRNA also said President Ebrahim Raisi met on September 15 in the northeastern city of Mashhad with "the families of security defenders" including two members of the Basij paramilitary force killed while trying to break up a protest in November. Those two deaths were blamed on Majid Reza Rahnavard, who was among seven people Iranian authorities have officially executed over their alleged participation in the protests. Security appeared tight in many cities around Iran on the first anniversary of Kurdish-Iranian Amini's death, after a night of scattered protests condemning the supreme leader and demanding rights for women. Areas of the capital, Tehran, and major cities like Mashhad in the northeast and Shiraz to the south saw demonstrators defy a clampdown late on September 15 to chant slogans including "Death to the dictator!" and "Woman, life, freedom!" Amini's death last year after eyewitnesses reported her being beaten as she was detained in Tehran by Iran's morality police and signs of a cover-up ignited anger that represents the greatest public threat to the religious regime there in more than a decade. Rights groups say the ensuing crackdown has killed upward of 500 people and landed many more in jail or with long prison sentences. Police and security forces have conducted roundups and other shows of force in recent weeks and warned Amini's family and others to avoid marking the anniversary or risk serious consequences. Still, late on September 15 there were signs of protest in at least a dozen neighborhoods of the capital and at least a half-dozen cities. The human rights website Hengav reported that armed troops of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) had been stationed around the home of Amini's family in her northwestern hometown of Saghez, where she is also buried. It quoted an informed source saying the security presence included motorized IRGC forces and a large number of troops. Amini's family reportedly published a text announcing a "traditional and religious ceremony" at her gravesite but were threatened and pressured to rescind the call. Amini died in a Tehran hospital on September 16, 2022 after falling into a coma following her detention by the Guidance Patrol that enforces morality laws including a strict dress code for women that has been the object of protest since the early days after the 1979 Islamic Revolution. An official report suggested she had died of heart failure connected to a previous condition, but eyewitnesses reported seeing her beaten and family said her body showed signs of violence. The Kurdpa website published video that showed security forces all around the Amini family home. Persian-language social media were filled with videos and images of purported protest actions around the country, many of them roadblocks or other forms of nighttime disruption. Videos showed a group of cars blocking roads and honking horns in the city of Baneh, in Kurdistan Province. The city of Marivan also witnessed scattered protests in parts of the city late on September 15 despite the widespread deployment of security forces. Protesters lit fires in some areas and chanted protest slogans. In the city of Abdanan in Ilam Province, security forces failed to prevent a group of protesters lighting a fire in streets. In the city of Piranshahr, in West Azerbaijan Province, a group of people blew car horns and created roadblocks. In Mahabad, revolutionary songs could be heard playing from the loudspeakers of several mosques. Hengav cited protest gatherings in a handful of other cities, including Abdanan, Kermanshah, Marivan, and Sanandaj. Human Rights Watch (HRW) described Iranian authorities as creating a "chokehold on dissent" in recent weeks amid "ramped-up repression" to stifle peaceful expression ahead of the September 16 anniversary. The group cited "intimidation, arrests, prosecutions, and trials of activists, artists, dissidents, lawyers, academics, students, and family members of those who were killed during the 2022 protests." The United States introduced fresh sanctions against more than two dozen individuals and entities connected to Iran's "violent suppression" of the Amini protests, the U.S. Treasury Department said on September 15. Britain announced a similar move. Protests marking the anniversary were also seen on September 16 in several foreign cities, including London, Vienna, Berlin, Rome, and Toronto. Late on September 15, Iran lashed out at the United States over what a Foreign Ministry spokesman called an "illegal" decision to introduce the new sanctions. Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani alleged in a statement "illegal and undiplomatic actions" and complained of "interventionist actions and statements and ridiculous and hypocritical" shows of international support for the protesters, AFP reported. Addressing European leaders, he said "unconstructive behavior...does not serve their interests." Jailed Iranian rights activist Narges Mohammadi said in a message from Evin prison that the anniversary of Amini's death symbolizes "the oppression of the theocratic authoritarian regime against Iranian women." She said the Woman, Life, Freedom movement that erupted nearly a year ago is a testament to the resilience of protesters and the waning authority of the "theocratic authoritarian regime." With reporting by AFP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-detains-amini- father-protests-death-anniversary/32595444.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Daughter Of German-Iranian Condemned To Death In Iran Meets In U.S. With Baerbock By RFE/RL September 16, 2023 The daughter of a German-Iranian reportedly abducted abroad and sentenced to death in Iran on "terrorism" charges denied by his family has met with visiting German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock in Washington to discuss Jamshid Sharmahd's case, the daughter said in a tweet. Dpa said Baerbock would not comment on details of the meeting. Baerbock spoke this week with Iranian Foreign Minister Hussein Amirabdollahian for the first time in a year and a half, possibly about his and other detained German citizens' cases. The German Foreign Office later cited "different attitudes" during that conversation. Baerbock has previously described Sharmahd's death sentence as "absolutely unacceptable." "Deeply grateful to the German foreign minister for spending time with us on her trip in Washington DC to speak about my dad Jimmy Sharmahd," Gazelle Sharmahd said on September 15 on X, formerly known as Twitter. Gazelle Sharmahd has been waging a #SaveSharmahd campaign and has been critical in the past of Berlin's perceived lack of commitment to seeking his release. Sharmahd was detained under unclear circumstances in 2020 and is accused by the Iranian Intelligence Ministry of being a member of the Iranian opposition group Kingdom Assembly of Iran, or Tondar. Based in Los Angeles, Tondar says it aims to overthrow the Islamic republic and reestablish a monarchy similar to that of Cyrus the Great. It runs pro-Iranian opposition radio and television stations abroad, as well as social media channels. With reporting by dpa Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/daughter-german-iranian-death- meets-us-baerbock/32595524.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran Withdraws Designation Of Three IAEA Nuclear Inspectors In Move Condemned By Watchdog By RFE/RL's Radio Farda September 16, 2023 Tehran has informed the UN nuclear watchdog that it has withdrawn the designation of several agency nuclear experts assigned to inspect enrichment activities in Iran, a move "strongly condemned" by the organization's chief. "These inspectors are among the most experienced agency experts with unique knowledge in enrichment technology," Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), said in a statement on September 16. "They have conducted essential verification work at the enrichment facilities in Iran which are under agency safeguards," he added. Grossi said that "with today's decision, Iran has effectively removed about one-third of the core group of the agency's most experienced inspectors designated for Iran." He added that Tehran's move, "while formally permitted by the NPT Safeguards Agreement, has been exercised by Iran in a manner that affects in a direct and severe way the ability of the IAEA to conduct effectively its inspections in Iran." Iran complained later that the United States and the so-called E3 -- Britain, France, and Germany -- had politicized the IAEA board for their own interests, but said it would nevertheless continue to cooperate with the nuclear watchdog. "Unfortunately, despite Iran's positive, constructive, and continuous interaction of the with the agency, the three European countries and the United States abused the [IAEA's] Board of Governors for their own political purposes," Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani said. No reason for the move against the inspectors was immediately given. Reuters quoted a Vienna-based diplomat as saying Iran had withdrawn the designation of all the German and French inspectors. There already were no U.S. or British inspectors on the team. Earlier this year, Tehran had vowed to cooperate with the UN nuclear watchdog to resolve outstanding issues after inspections -- under the international Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) -- reportedly showed that Tehran had enriched uranium to near nuclear-weapons grade. Grossi, speaking to reporters in Vienna on March 4 following a two-day visit to Tehran, said a new agreement included the reinstallation of monitoring equipment and would allow access to experts for an investigation into uranium traces at three undeclared sites. On September 13, more than 60 countries demanded that Iran immediately answer questions about its nuclear program in a statement read by a Danish diplomat at the IAEA board meeting in Vienna. The statement demanded that Tehran disclose the current location of nuclear materials from former secret facilities and sought clarification on other ambiguities about Iran's uranium stockpile. A day later, the United States and its three European allies threatened Tehran with another UN resolution, although they didn't specify when or if they would actually do so." Grossi said Tehran's latest move was an overreaction to those outside demands. "I strongly condemn this disproportionate and unprecedented unilateral measure which affects the normal planning and conduct of agency verification activities in Iran and openly contradicts the cooperation that should exist between the agency and Iran," he said. "Without effective cooperation, confidence and trust will continue to be elusive and the agency will not be in a position to discharge effectively its verification mandate in Iran and provide credible assurances that nuclear material and activities in Iran are for peaceful purposes." He called on Tehran to "reconsider its decision and to return to a path of cooperation with the agency." Iran has insisted that its nuclear program is strictly for civilian purposes. With reporting by RFE/RL's Radio Farda Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-withdraws-designation- nuclear-inspectors/32595713.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Anniversary of Amini's Death Sparks Strikes, Protests Worldwide By VOA Persian Service September 16, 2023 The one-year anniversary of the death of Mahsa "Jina" Amini was marked Saturday by a strong military presence and a general strike by tradespeople and shopkeepers in Kurdish cities across numerous provinces of Iran a along with protest rallies in cities worldwide. Numerous images circulating Saturday on social media also showed a significant number of military and security forces around the Amini family residence in Saqqez in Iran's Kurdish region. Last week, despite repeated summons from security authorities, Amjad Amini and Mozhgan Eftekhari, Mahsa's parents, said they intended to hold "religious and traditional ceremonies" Saturday at their daughter's gravesite in observance of the anniversary of her "tragic passing" while in the custody of Iran's morality police. Over the past few days, Amini's family said that security authorities requested they abstain from arranging the anniversary ceremony, but her father steadfastly underscored the significance of hosting the commemorative event. Amjad Amini was detained for a short time Saturday before being released, according to the Kurdistan Human Rights Network. Iran's official IRNA news agency denied he was arrested, though it would not confirm if he was briefly detained or warned. Amjad Amini recently told VOA's Persian Service, "To honor the name and memory of our Jina, a martyr with an innocent and pure soul, and to provide solace to the hearts of our family, relatives, and all her well-wishers, we are resolute in commemorating the anniversary ceremony this year. Nevertheless, considering the prevailing circumstances, we cannot extend formal invitations to the public or advise them against attending." Images obtained by VOA showed that multiple businesses were closed in some Kurdish cities, including Sanandaj, Divandareh, and Baneh. Over the past few days, signs of protest have been met with harsh suppression by security forces and a significant deployment of military personnel in city centers and thoroughfares. Images circulating on social media Saturday showed Iranians in New Zealand participating in a protest gathering on the anniversary of Amini's death. Iranians there carried placards in solidarity with the Iranian protest movement and raised their voices in chants advocating for democracy and freedom in Iran. Iranians living in Australia organized a protest gathering in Melbourne's central square and published images showed Kylie Moore-Gilbert, a former detainee in Iran, addressing the crowd. Moore-Gilbert was arrested in Iran in 2018 and following nine months of detention, she received a 10-year prison sentence on espionage charges. After enduring 804 days in prison, she was released in exchange for the freedom of three Iranian citizens residing abroad and subsequently returned to Australia. Images received by VOA also showed Iranians protesting in front of the Islamic Republic Embassy in Japan. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran: Statement by the Spokesperson on actions against IAEA inspectors European External Action Service (EEAS) 17.09.2023 EEAS Press Team The European Union is highly concerned by the report of the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Saturday's decision by Iran to withdraw the official designation of several experienced IAEA inspectors to monitor and verify its nuclear programme. Particularly worrying is the direct and severe impact of this decision on the Agency's ability to conduct its verification activities, which includes the monitoring of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPoA). The EU urges Iran to reconsider its decision without delay. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Sanctions on Iran's oil, gas sector being neutralized: Minister IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Sep 17, 2023 Tehran, IRNA -- Iran's Minister of Petroleum Javad Owji says sanctions imposed by the United States and its European allies on the country's oil and gas sector are gradually losing their effectiveness. He made the remarks during a visit to the 17th IranPlast International Exhibition in Tehran on Sunday, where he praised Iran's experts for facilitating the expansion of the country's energy industry from refineries to petrochemicals on a global scale. The minister said there was significant interest shown by foreign companies in IranPlast, considered the largest exhibition of the plastic industry in West Asia. "The IranPlast exhibition contributes to discussions on entering the value chain, and we see over 230 foreign companies participating in this exhibition," Owji emphasized. "In this government, we intend to primarily enter the value chain through the private sector and prevent the sale of raw materials," he states. "Moreover, this value chain is immune to sanctions." He also highlighted the exhibition's role as a valuable platform for the provision of technical and engineering services, fostering collaboration within the petrochemical industry. Drawing attention to Iran's growing cooperation with Russia's energy sector, Owji said, "We have contracts with Russian oil companies for the development of seven oil fields." He added that agreements have been reached with Russian companies such as Gazprom, both in the upstream and downstream sectors, with initial phases of some fields already in production. 4353**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraq says gained full control over borders with Iran IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Sep 17, 2023 Tehran, IRNA -- The Iraqi government has started the process of exercising its laws and sovereignty over common borders with Iran, the spokesman for Iraq's Joint Operations Command has announced. "The security forces have started the process of applying [Iraq's] laws and sovereignty in all border points with Iran," Major General Tahsin Al-Khafaji said while speaking with Al-Araby Al-Jadeed on Sunday. "The purpose of this action is to prevent the use of Iraqi soil to attack any of the neighboring countries, as underscored in the Iraqi constitution," he said. The Iraqi general further said Iraqi forces have the military capabilities to control the border areas, adding that Baghdad and the Iraqi Kurdistan region coordinate at high levels in this regard. "Iraq is fully committed to implementing the security agreement with Iran because this is in the interest of Iraq's national security," he said. In similar remarks days earlier, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein said his country is committed to the security agreement with Iran to disarm anti-Iran terrorist groups based in the Kurdistan region. Speaking at a joint press conference with his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amirabdollahian on Wednesday, Hussein said the terrorist groups will be transferred to camps supervised by the United Nations. 4354**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Arrests Reported in Iran on Mahsa Amini's Death Anniversary By VOA Persian Service September 17, 2023 Human rights activists say dozens of people were detained as Iran marked the one-year anniversary Saturday of the death in police custody of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini. Hengaw Organization for Human Rights has confirmed the identities of at least 13 of those detained across various provinces. Those detained included Nima Safar, a poet, and writer, along with Mani Safar and Majid Kalateh, who were apprehended in Gorgan, according to the group. Meanwhile, Rahim Jahanbakhsh, the police commander of West Azerbaijan, announced the detention of 137 individuals on charges of "disturbing public order." Mahsa Amini, an Iranian Kurd, had been detained by the morality police for allegedly wearing her headscarf too loosely. Iran saw months of anti-government protests after her death in police custody on September 16, 2022. The anniversary of her death was marked Saturday by a strong military presence and a general strike by tradespeople and shopkeepers in Kurdish cities across numerous provinces of Iran a along with protest rallies in cities worldwide. Amini's father, Amjad Amini was detained for a short time Saturday before being released, according to the Kurdistan Human Rights Network. Iran's official IRNA news agency denied he was arrested, though it would not confirm if he was briefly detained or warned. Images circulating on social media Saturday showed Iranians in New Zealand participating in a protest gathering on the anniversary of Amini's death. Iranians there carried placards in solidarity with the Iranian protest movement and raised their voices in chants advocating for democracy and freedom in Iran. Iranians living in Australia organized a protest gathering in Melbourne's central square and published images showing Kylie Moore-Gilbert, a former detainee in Iran, addressing the crowd. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Readout: Assistant Secretary Elizabeth Rosenberg's Travel to Baghdad, Iraq U.S. Department of the Treasury September 15, 2023 BAGHDAD -- On September 12 and 13, Assistant Secretary for Terrorist Financing and Financial Crimes Elizabeth Rosenberg met in Baghdad, Iraq with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammad S. al-Sudani and leaders at the Central Bank of Iraq, Trade Bank of Iraq, the Iraqi Financial Intelligence Unit, as well as representatives from the Iraqi private banking sector. Both sides, recognizing the opportunities and challenges ahead for further improving the Iraqi financial sector, agreed to continue working together and take positive steps towards meaningful and lasting reforms that will raise Iraq to international standards and prevent fraud, sanctions evasion, terrorist financing, and other illicit activities. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address We must deliver justice for survivors of Daesh's atrocities: UK statement at the Security Council Explanation of vote by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on UNITAD. 15 September 2023 We recall that the horrific atrocities committed by Daesh shocked the world. This Council was clear in its response: Daesh members had to be held to account, and justice delivered for the survivors and victims of their crimes. This is why Iraq and the UK were at the helm of establishing UNITAD through Resolution 2379 in 2017. Since it was established, UNITAD has supported the excavation of mass graves and facilitated the return of remains to the families of victims. It has worked closely with Iraqi judges and prosecutors to build their capacity, in particular on evidence collection. It has provided survivors, including of sexual and gender-based violence, with opportunities to provide testimony safely with their rights fully respected, testimonies that have been used in the prosecution of Daesh members around the world. And it has enabled psychosocial treatment in partnership with Iraq's Ministry of Health, providing real impact for survivors. This year, as with every year, we approached this mandate in close partnership with the Government of Iraq, and with the shared commitment of Security Council members to counter terrorism. The resolution we have adopted this morning puts us on a course to improve evidence sharing arrangements with the Government of Iraq, and to consider options for UNITAD's future. The UK will work closely with the Government of Iraq, the United Nations, and the Security Council to continue UNITAD's legacy, both in Iraq and around the world. We are grateful to the Special Adviser and his Team for their dedicated work in pursuit of accountability. And we stand firm in our continued international efforts to deliver justice for Daesh's atrocities. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Report: Iraqi forces retake border area, remove anti-Iran terrorists Iran Press TV Saturday, 16 September 2023 8:00 AM Iraqi border guards have managed to gain full control over an area on the Kurdistan region's border with Iran and drive out terrorist groups following fierce clashes with them. Iraq's Shafaq News Agency cited the country's Border Guard Forces as saying in a statement late on Friday that they had seized border points in Erbil Province and raised Iraq's national flag in the area after clashes with the "outlaws". "As part of the efforts of the Border Forces Command to control the entire Iraqi border with neighboring countries, a force from the 2nd Border Brigade and the 1st Region Border Commando Regiment, with the support of the Peshmerga Regional Guard forces, was able to capture border points on the strip," the statement read. "The Border Forces Command is determined to impose the authority of the Iraq government on the entire border with neighboring countries and raise the Iraqi flag at the furthest point therein," the statement added. On Wednesday, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein said at a joint press conference with his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian in Tehran that Baghdad was committed to a security pact with Iran to disarm anti-Iran terrorist groups based in the Kurdistan region. Stressing that the Iraqi constitution does not allow any group to use Iraqi territory to attack other countries, Hussein said the Baghdad government and the Kurdistan region are cooperating with each other in this regard and both stress the necessity of implementing the security agreement. Earlier in the week, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kan'ani said the September 19 deadline given to Iraq to disarm anti-Iran separatist groups based in the Kurdistan regime will not be extended. Kan'ani underlined that Iran will take matters into its own hands to ensure its own security if the deadline passes without any implementation of the agreement. Amir-Abdollahian had earlier warned that the presence of terrorists in the Iraqi Kurdistan region ran counter to the friendly ties between the two nations and contravened the Constitution of Iraq. Iran and Iraq signed a security agreement that includes coordination in protecting the border between the two countries in the Iraqi capital of Baghdad on March 19. Anti-Iranian terrorist groups residing in the Iraqi Kurdistan region have increased their malign activities, especially in border areas. Responding to the activities, Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) launched several rounds of airstrikes against their positions since September 24 last year, vowing to continue the attacks till the groups are unarmed. Iran has, on countless occasions, warned the Iraqi Kurdistan's local authorities that it will not tolerate the presence and activity of terrorist groups along its northwestern borders, saying the country will give a decisive response should those areas become a hub of anti-Islamic Republic terrorists. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran warns Iraq of 'eleventh-hour decision' about disarmament of Kurdish separatists Iran Press TV Sunday, 17 September 2023 3:00 PM The Iranian defense minister says Tehran will not extend the ultimatum given to Iraq to disarm Kurdish separatist groups along the border with Iran, warning Baghdad of an "eleventh-hour decision" on the matter. Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Ashtiani made the remarks in an interview with Iran newspaper published on Sunday, referring to a security agreement concluded between Iran and Iraq back in March. Under the agreement, the Iraqi government has promised to disarm terrorist and separatist groups based in the Kurdistan region by September 19, vacate their military barracks, and transfer them to the camps established by the Baghdad government. "We do not have any extension [to the deadline]. We will act in due time in accordance with the agreement made [with Iraq]," he said. The Iranian defense minister said the Iraqi government has carried out a series of measures. He said Iran will conduct a last-minute assessment of the situation before making the final decision. The remarks come as Iran's Nour News, which is affiliated with the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), reported on Sunday that despite the active measures taken by the federal government in Baghdad, "some clauses of agreement have not been fully implemented that need follow-up." Iraqi media, however, reported on Saturday the country's border guards have managed to gain full control over an area on the Kurdistan region's border with Iran and drive out terrorist groups following fierce clashes. Iraq's Shafaq News Agency cited the country's Border Guard Forces as saying in a statement late on Friday that they had seized border points in Erbil Province and raised Iraq's national flag in the area after clashes with the "outlaws". During a visit to Tehran earlier this week, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein assured the Islamic Republic that Baghdad was committed to the security pact with Iran to disarm the terrorist groups based in the Kurdistan region. Stressing that the Iraqi constitution does not allow any group to use the Iraqi territory to attack other countries, Hussein told his Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, that the Baghdad government and the Kurdistan region are cooperating in this regard and both take implementation of the security agreement seriously. Last week, Bafel Talabani, leader of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), held talks with the Iranian foreign minister and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf. Amir-Abdollahian told the PUK leader that the presence of terrorists in Iraqi Kurdistan region contravenes the Arab country's constitution and is not compatible with cordial relations between Tehran and Baghdad. The security agreement between the two countries came after anti-Iranian terrorist groups residing in Iraqi Kurdistan region increased their malign activities, especially in border areas. Responding to their activities, Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has launched several rounds of strikes against their positions since September 24 last year, vowing to continue the attacks until the groups are disarmed. Iran has, on countless occasions, warned Iraqi Kurdistan's local authorities that it will not tolerate the presence and activity of terrorist groups along its northwestern borders, saying the country will give a decisive response should those areas become a haven for anti-Tehran terrorists. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Senate commends DLSZ Strings for winning 2 musical festival competitions abroad The Senate adopted on Monday, September 18, 2023 a resolution commending and congratulating the De La Salle Santiago Zobel Strings Ensemble for winning the gold award at the 2023 Bratislava Youth Musical Festival Competition, and for bagging the 4th place at the 15th Summa Cum Laude International Youth Musical Festival held in Europe. "The Philippine Senate, on several occasions, has been paying tribute to outstanding Filipinos for their commendable performances that bring pride and joy to the country, especially in the field of music," Senate Resolution No. 758, sponsored by Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros, stated. "I can't help but be proud of what the De La Salle strings ensemble has accomplished for their school and for our country. Again, I am extremely honored to sponsor our Senate Resolution, which celebrates these young musicians who brought pride and honor to our beloved Philippines," Hontiveros said in her sponsorship speech. "They deserve to be recognized for their countless hours of training, talent, and amazing dedication to their craft," she added. The group received an outstanding rating for bagging the 4th place at the 15th Summa Cum Laude (SCL) International Youth Music Festival which took place at the Golden Hall of the Musikverein in Vienna, Austria last July 1. The SCL International Youth Music Festival is a world-renowned international celebration for young musicians that feature different musical ensembles from Australia, Austria, Canada, China, Italy, Puerto Rico, Singapore, Taipei, Norway, Netherlands, Spain, and USA. The DLSZ Strings also won the Gold Award at the 2023 Bratislava Youth Music Festival Competition at the Slovak Radio Concert Hall in Slovakia last July 7. The DLSZ Strings is composed of high school students who are enrolled in the special music program to develop their musical skills. The group was headed by Strings Conductor Mr. Leopoldo Sumera Jr., accompanied by Strings teacher Ms. Shelly Isaga, Music Unit Head Mr. Daryl Galicia, and the Cultural Affairs Office Head Lynette Feliciano. "The DLSZ Strings' participation in these international events not only highlights the hard work and dedication of the students but also demonstrate Filipinos' world-class talent and musical excellence," the resolution stated. Iraq in full control of all border points with Iran: Top general Iran Press TV Sunday, 17 September 2023 10:36 AM The spokesman for Iraq's Joint Operations Command says government forces have begun to gain full control over all border points with neighboring Iran, stressing Baghdad is fully committed to implementing the security agreement with Tehran. "Iraqi government forces have begun to establish control over all border points with Iran, and apply Iraq's laws and sovereignty there," Major General Tahsin al-Khafaji said in an interview published on Sunday. "The step is meant to prevent the use of Iraqi soil to launch an attack on neighboring states, as emphasized in the Iraqi Constitution," he added. "Iraqi forces have the military capabilities to control the common border strip between Iraq and Iran," he said. "The central government in Baghdad and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) coordinate at high levels in this regard." Khafaji underscored that Iraq is fully committed to implementing the security agreement with Iran because the pact is in the interest of Iraq's national security. Iran has set a deadline of September 19 for the Iraqi-Kurdish authorities to take action against secessionist anti-Iranian groups stationed in northern Iraq along the common border. An informed source said on Friday that the terrorist groups had agreed to lay down their arms and leave the areas along the common border between Iran and the Iraqi Kurdistan Region. The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, highlighted that the KRG has practically started the activities to draw the separatist parties away from the Iranian border. "The parties have agreed on relocation to the camps that have been already set up in the provinces of Erbil and Sulaymaniyah. They have completely approved the activities of the Kurdistan Regional Government," the source stated. Last week, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein said at a joint press conference with his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian in Tehran that Baghdad was committed to a security pact with Iran to disarm anti-Iran terrorist groups based in the Kurdistan region. Stressing that the Iraqi constitution does not allow any group to use Iraqi territory to attack other countries, Hussein said that the Baghdad government and the Kurdistan region are cooperating with each other in this regard and both stress the necessity of implementing the security agreement. In March, Iran and Iraq signed a security agreement that includes coordination in protecting the border between the two countries in the Iraqi capital of Baghdad. Anti-Iranian terrorist groups residing in the Iraqi Kurdistan region have increased their malign activities, especially in border areas. Responding to the activities, Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) launched several rounds of airstrikes against their positions since September 24 last year, vowing to continue the attacks till the groups are unarmed. Iran has, on countless occasions, warned the Iraqi Kurdistan's local authorities that it will not tolerate the presence and activity of terrorist groups along its northwestern borders, saying the country will give a decisive response should those areas become a hub of anti-Islamic Republic terrorists. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Thousands demonstrate against Israeli cabinet's policies for 37th straight week Iran Press TV Monday, 18 September 2023 12:06 AM Thousands have rallied in several locations throughout the occupied Palestinian territories for the 37th consecutive week to condemn the hard-right Israeli cabinet's extremist policies. Usually held every Saturday, this week's demonstrations were held on Sunday, with the coastal city of Tel Aviv attracting the largest crowd as was the case in previous weeks. Participants held up placards and chanted slogans against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who was about to fly to New York for the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Similar protests were held in other cities across the occupied territories, including the holy city of al-Quds as well as Haifa, Rehovot, Eilat and other locations. Hundreds also gathered at Ben Gurion Airport, from which the premier was expected to depart for New York. While some protesters chanted for Netanyahu to "go and don't come back," others highlighted that he has not been invited to the White House. The protests have been a fixed weekly event since January, when Netanyahu announced an overhaul scheme, which seeks to rob the regime's Supreme Court of the ability to invalidate the decisions made by the politicians. Proponents of the overhaul say it helps redistribute the balance of power between the politicians and the judiciary. Its opponents, however, accuse Netanyahu of trying his hand at a power grab. They say the premier, who is on trial in three corruption cases for receiving bribe, fraud, and breach of trust, is also attempting to use the scheme to quash possible judgments against him. Netanyahu's far-right cabinet has already passed one of the scheme's bills through the Knesset, which stripped the court of its power to strike down the cabinet's decisions or appointments on the basis of being "unreasonable." The regime's Supreme Court, for the first time in its history, convened its entire 15-judge bench earlier this month to hear an appeal against that bill, and is expected to issue its decision at a later date. Protesters have also vowed to follow Netanyahu during his weeklong stay in the United States and are planning to hound him during his scheduled meetings in San Francisco and New York. Earlier this week, activists projected a giant message onto the UN headquarters building in New York, saying, "Don't believe Crime Minister Netanyahu." "We will be waiting to greet him. In the air, on land and at sea. The whole world will know that Netanyahu is a liar. We will not allow him to...deceive world leaders with his speeches," the activists said in a statement. They added, "The slogan projected on the UN building wall is just a small taste of what is awaiting the indicted defendant Netanyahu on his visit to NYC." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Blinken's Call with Outgoing Japanese Foreign Minister Hayashi US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson September 14, 2023 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with outgoing Japanese Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa and congratulated Hayashi on his successful tenure as Foreign Minister. The Secretary thanked his Japanese counterpart for being a leading voice in support of Ukraine in the G7, at the United Nations, and throughout his travels around the world, including his recent visit to Ukraine. Secretary Blinken and Foreign Minister Hayashi re-emphasized the importance of the U.S.-Japan Alliance to the continued security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Blinken's Call with Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson September 14, 2023 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko today and offered congratulations on her appointment. They emphasized the importance of the U.S.-Japan Alliance to security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. The Secretary and Foreign Minister also discussed countering the DPRK's reckless provocations and Japan's support for Ukraine in the G7 and United Nations. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kazakh Tycoon Related To Former President's Family Gets Six Years In Prison By RFE/RL's Kazakh Service September 15, 2023 ASTANA -- A court in Astana sentenced Kazakh tycoon Qairat Boranbaev, whose daughter is a widow of a grandson of former President Nursultan Nazarbaev, to six years in prison after a retrial procedure. Boranbaev's co-defendants, Roman Nakhanov and Taiyr Zhanuzaq, were sentenced to six years and five years in prison respectively in the same case on September 15, the court said. Hours earlier, prosecutor Olzhas Qairollaev had asked the court to hand the same prison terms to the three men. Qairollaev emphasized then that Boranbaev had agreed to cooperate with investigators and cover the financial damages caused by his criminal activities. Boranbaev, Nakhanov, and Zhanuzaq, were sentenced to eight years in prison each on embezzlement charges in late March. The trio had pleaded not guilty at the time. In June, a court in Astana canceled the sentences, citing the absence of key documents the charges against the three men were based on. On August 22, Boranbaev's lawyer, Daniyar Qanafin, stated at a new hearing of the case in Astana that his client had changed his plea and accepted that he embezzled 14.6 billion tenges (more than $32 million), which he had returned to the State Treasury. Qanafin also announced that his client was ready to make a deal with investigators and prosecutors. Boranbaev's daughter, Alima Boranbaeva, and Nazarbaev's grandson, Aisultan Nazarbaev, married in 2013. In September 2020, Aisultan Nazarbaev, who reportedly suffered from drug addiction and had run-ins with the law in the United Kingdom, died in London at the age of 29. Boranbaev, 56, was arrested following unprecedented anti-government protests in early January 2022 after which the Kazakh regime began to quietly target Nazarbaev, his family, and other allies -- many of whom held powerful or influential posts in government, security agencies, and profitable energy companies. In September 2022, another court in Astana sentenced Nazarbaev's nephew Qairat Satybaldy to six years in prison on corruption charges. President Qasym-Zhomart Toqaev has made a series of moves since the unrest to push Nazarbaev, who ruled the tightly controlled former Soviet republic with an iron fist for almost three decades, further into the background following his resignation in 2019. Though he officially stepped down as president, Nazarbaev retained sweeping powers as the head of the country's powerful Security Council. He also enjoyed substantial powers by holding the title of "elbasy" -- leader of the nation. Even after Nazarbaev's resignation, many Kazakhs remained bitter over the oppression of his reign. Those feelings came to a head in January 2022, when unprecedented, nationwide anti-government protests were sparked by a fuel-price hike. The demonstrations unexpectedly exploded into deadly unrest over perceived corruption under the Nazarbaev regime and the cronyism that allowed his family and close friends to enrich themselves while ordinary citizens failed to share in the oil-rich country's wealth. Toqaev subsequently stripped Nazarbaev of his Security Council role, taking it over himself. Since then, several of Nazarbaev's relatives and allies have been pushed out of their positions or resigned. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/kazakhstan-boranbaev-trial- nazarbaev-ally/32594270.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Agencies Issue Guidance as Libyan Residents Fear Flooding Health Risks By Hassuna Baishu September 15, 2023 As rescue efforts continue in Libya, international health agencies issued a statement Friday on the rush to bury bodies because of fears of a health crisis in the aftermath of Sunday's catastrophic flooding. The World Health Organization, the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the International Committee of the Red Cross warned against the misconceptions about health risks that dead bodies pose. "Amid devastating loss of life due to disasters and conflict, there is often unfounded fear and misunderstanding concerning the dead," the health organizations said in a statement. "The bodies of people who have died following wounds sustained in a natural disaster or armed conflict almost never pose a health danger to communities." The groups said they have teams in Libya to help local authorities with guidance, materials and training in burying the dead. Local officials warned about a possible "environmental crisis" posed by unrecovered bodies a beneath debris or in the water a which has led to mass burials as some residents believe the dead bodies can spread diseases and contaminate drinking water. Libya's Ministry of Local Governance announced in a Facebook post that its sanitation agency would deploy a convoy equipped with sterilization and fumigation equipment, pesticides and spraying apparatus to the affected eastern regions. "The belief that dead bodies will cause epidemics is not supported by evidence," the statement said, adding that the group recognizes "the presence of dead bodies can be stressful, resulting in a push for mass burials." Abdullah Zafeer, a lecturer at Omar Al-Mokhtar University and an eyewitness in the northeastern port city of Susa, told VOA that as decomposing bodies begin to emerge, "the smell of death is surrounding the city." "There are still people trapped under the rubble and the destroyed houses, buried under mud and stones," he said. Like other residents, Zafeer said he feared health risks as rescue operations in Susa have been delayed because of road destruction. Susa, more than 259 kilometers (161 miles) east of Benghazi, has faced instability due to the civil war, affecting its population and infrastructure. Zafeer said aid convoys reached the city Wednesday, adding to efforts by the Libyan National Army, which began Sunday. Hamdi Al-Hassi, director of Emergency and Ambulance Services in Susa, told local media that "the situation in Susa is extremely difficult, and there are several areas we have not reached yet." Hardest-hit areas The storm hit other areas in eastern Libya, including the towns of Al-Bayda, Al-Marj and Shahat. At least 46 people were reported dead in Al-Bayda, Abdel-Rahim Mazek, head of the town's main medical center, said earlier in the week. Figures from less affected areas remained unconfirmed as rescue efforts continued. Intensive rescue and relief efforts were underway in the port city of Derna, where nearly a quarter of the city's residents were missing and buildings destroyed, according to emergency officials. Satellite data released on X, formerly Twitter, by Disaster Charter, a nongovernmental organization specializing in disaster management, showed more than 2,200 buildings exposed to rushing floodwaters, highlighting the extent of flooding in Derna. Marie el-Drese, the Libyan Red Crescent's secretary-general, told The Associated Press by phone that more than 10,000 people were reported missing in the city. Health authorities previously put the death toll in Derna at 5,500. The storm also killed about 170 people elsewhere in the country. Othman Abduljaleel, eastern Libya's health minister, said more than 3,000 bodies had been buried by Thursday morning, while another 2,000 were still being processed. He said most of the dead were buried in mass graves outside Derna, while others were transferred to nearby towns and cities. The International Committee of the Red Cross said Thursday that it had provided 6,000 body bags to local authorities, as well as medical, food and other supplies distributed to hard-hit communities. Several countries, including neighboring Egypt, Algeria and Tunisia, have sent aid and rescue teams. Italy dispatched a naval vessel on Thursday carrying humanitarian aid and two navy helicopters to be used for search-and-rescue operations. President Joe Biden said the United States would provide financial support to relief organizations and collaborate with Libyan authorities and the United Nations to offer further assistance. The U.N. has launched an appeal for more than $71 million to respond to the "most urgent needs of 250,000 people targeted out of the 884,000 people estimated to be in need." This story originated in VOA's English to Africa Service. Some information came from The Associated Press. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Analysts: Effect of Libya's Killer Storm Made Worse by Decade of Conflict By Dale Gavlak September 15, 2023 Just hours after epic storm Daniel dumped torrential rains on Libya's coast, breaching dams and killing thousands, some called it perhaps the deadliest and costliest Mediterranean tropical-like cyclone ever recorded. Described by some scientists as the latest extreme weather event linked to climate change, analysts tell VOA that conflict, political division and neglect of public infrastructure also played a role in making Libya helpless as Daniel's downpour burst two dams, sweeping entire neighborhoods of the coastal city of Derna into the sea. "Bodies are lying everywhere in the sea, in the valleys, under the buildings," one Libyan official told the Associated Press. Some experts familiar with the stricken region say the sheer scope of the devastation goes beyond a climate crisis-induced catastrophe. "Years of conflict and division, administrative malfeasance and misgovernance hitting this very vulnerable area" has compounded the impact of the storm, said Stephanie Williams, a non-resident senior fellow at Washington's Brookings Institution, who served as a U.N. special advisor on Libya. "All of this converged to create a terribly catastrophic situation now," she told VOA. "Political instability is quite complicating in this environment and I'm sure there will be many who will want to play the blame game." Saudi Arabia's Arab News newspaper said the "startling death and devastation" caused by the storm's intensity also exposed Libya's vulnerability after being divided between rival governments and "torn apart by chaos for more than a decade." "Libya, for the past 10 years, has gone [from] one war to another, one political crisis to another," Claudia Gazzini, a senior Libya analyst for the International Crisis Group told The New York Times newspaper. "Essentially this has meant that, for the past 10 years, there hasn't really been much investment in the country's infrastructure." Malak Eltaeb, an analyst with Washington's Middle East Institute, told VOA by email that conflict and unrest have left social services severely weakened. "And a failure to maintain facilities, like dams a unfortunately, there were no mitigation strategies, early warning systems or evacuation plans in place," she said of the disaster in Derna, which lies some 900 kilometers east of the capital, Tripoli, an area controlled by military commander Khalifa Haftar's forces. "No measures were taken to protect civilians or reduce damage." But Brookings analyst Williams said that despite the geopolitical divide, the rival, internationally recognized government based in Tripoli in western Libya and allied with other armed groups, is coming to the aid of citizens in the country's east. "There's a great outreach from all Libyans to the people, particularly in Derna, of the internationally recognized government in Tripoli," she said. "It has sent assistance; it's allocating funds to help with immediate humanitarian needs and long-term rebuilding." Desperately needed aid, she added, is also reaching people by civilian convoys from western Libya and by the national oil company to Libyans in the east. "The division right now is not a barrier to assistance," she said. Addressing a news conference on Tuesday, World Health Organization spokesperson Margaret Harris described the flooding as being of "epic" proportions. Humanitarian groups have also expressed concerns that migrants and refugees from more than 40 countries who use Libya as a launch point for Europe may have been caught up in the floods. Some information is from the Associated Press. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Libyan Red Crescent: Flooding death toll tops 11,000, another 10,000 missing Iran Press TV Saturday, 16 September 2023 6:13 AM The death toll from devastating floods in eastern Libya has reached 11,000, the Libyan Red Crescent says, with thousands reportedly still missing, as search and rescue teams continue. According to the center, at least 11,300 people have lost their lives and another 10,100 are missing, after Mediterranean Storm Daniel hit the North African country earlier in the week. The northeastern city of Derna is the worst affected, where heavy rainfall led to the collapse of two dams, wiping out a quarter of the area and sweeping bodies out to sea. According to local officials, the port city has been declared a disaster zone, with electricity and communication having been cut off. Talal Burnaz, the acting country director in Libya for the International Medical Corps, said the situation in Derna is "devastating" and people are returning to what is left of their homes in desperation. "The situation is devastating ... a lot of destruction and ruins, around 25% of the city was basically destroyed as a result of the flooding," Burnaz said. "Whenever you see a search and rescue team you will see families standing there with tears in their eyes asking for support and hoping that they will basically find one of their family members alive," he added. Burnaz said rescue teams are still pulling people out of the rubble. He saw one rescue and heard of four more survivors who had been trapped under rubble since the early hours of Monday when he visited the last remaining government run hospital in Derna. Many international search and rescue teams and local authorities are trying to retrieve either bodies or trying to find survivors under the rubble, and some help is getting through the one road that leads to the devastated areas. Those who have lost their homes are being housed in municipal building like schools and universities, with authorities saying the amount of destruction is massive. Doctors Without Borders says it has dispatched an emergency team to Derna to assess the needs in the aftermath of the widespread flooding. Oil-rich Libya is still suffering from years of war and chaos that followed the 2011 uprising which toppled and killed longtime dictator Muammar Gaddafi before foreign meddling especially by NATO plunged the country into bloodshed. The country is divided between two rival governments -- the UN-brokered, internationally-recognized administration based in Tripoli, and a separate administration in the disaster-hit east. The United Nations and several countries have offered to send aid, but getting supplies into the affected areas has proven difficult with many roads blocked and bridges destroyed. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UK ramps up vital life-saving support for Libya The UK has ramped up crucial life-saving support to flood-hit Libya, allocating increased funding and deploying an essential emergency medical team. 16 September 2023 New UK funding to support response to devastating floods in Libya UK to deliver life-saving provisions including emergency shelter, solar lanterns, and water filters to disaster-affected areas Emergency Medical Team to be deployed to carry out rapid medical assessments on the ground The UK has ramped up crucial life-saving support to flood-hit Libya, allocating increased funding and deploying an essential emergency medical team. This additional support builds upon the initial package worth up to A1 million announced earlier this week (Wednesday 13th), which will be used to provide vital provisions including emergency shelter items, portable solar lanterns and water filters. The UK is also deploying an emergency medical team led by health and sanitation experts from NGO UK-MED to conduct rapid medical assessments in disaster-affected areas. The Emergency Medical Team will coordinate with local authorities, international organisations and other EMT partners on the ground to understand the immediate and growing humanitarian health needs in Libya following the devastating storms. The UK has increased its financial support to the response to both the floods in Libya and the earthquake in Morocco, allocating a package worth up to A10 million. Minister for the Middle East and North Africa, Lord Ahmad said: It is harrowing to see the loss of life and scenes of devastation in Libya following the floods. The UK is committed to supporting the Libyan people during this extremely difficult time. We will increase UK funding to the crisis response and deliver crucial life-saving provisions, including shelter, water filters and medical assessments. Earlier this week (13 September), the Minister for the Middle East and North Africa, Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon, spoke with the Chairman of Libya's Presidential Council, Mohamed al-Mnefi, to convey his condolences and the UK's commitment to supporting Libya in the aftermath of this tragedy. Lord Ahmad also spoke to Under-Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator at the UN, Martin Griffiths, to discuss the international response to the crises in Morocco and Libya. The UN has announced $10 million in response to the flooding from its Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), to which the UK is one of the largest donors. The UK has committed A52 million towards the UNCERF's vital work in 2023. The UK is working with trusted partners on the ground to identify the most urgent basic needs, including on shelter, healthcare and sanitation and stands ready to provide further support. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Myanmar vendors told to sell military beer - or face consequences The warning appears to be part of a bid by the junta to earn cash amid international sanctions. By RFA Burmese 2023.09.15 -- Vendors in Myanmar who boycott military-produced booze and cigarettes beware - you may be getting a summons from junta authorities. That's what happened to restaurant owners on 19th street in Yangon's Latha township when representatives of their local ward administration office called them in on Wednesday and warned them to sell the goods or face the consequences, the owners and officials told RFA Burmese. The military controls businesses that produce and distribute several alcoholic brands in the country, including Myanmar Beer, Mandalay Beer, Black Shield Beer, Mandalay Rum, Army Rum, Andaman God and Dagon branded alcohols, as well as various soft drinks. It also makes and sells Red Ruby and Premium Gold branded cigarettes. "They told us to sell Myanmar beer, rum and cigarettes produced by their military factories in our restaurants, just like other products we sell," said one owner who, like others interviewed for this report, spoke on condition of anonymity citing fear of reprisal. "They warned us not to discriminate against their products and threatened to take action against those who don't sell them," the owner said. "Nobody [from the junta] has come to inspect our restaurants on 19th street yet, but I heard that they did so at restaurants in rural locations." It was not immediately clear how authorities intend to punish those who ignore the order. On the flip side, rebel groups fighting the military, which took control of the government in a 2021 coup, have warned merchants not to sell military-owned brands - saying they would seize and destroy them if discovered. The General Strike Coordination Body, which organizes boycotts of the military, has also urged the people not to use the products. The pressure from both sides would seem to put merchants in a bind. Bid to beat sanctions? The campaign appears to be the latest bid by a cash-strapped junta to earn money in the face of crushing international sanctions over its repressive rule. According to the owner, the warning was issued in line with a campaign led by Interior Minister Lieutenant General Yar Pyae to regain market share for beer, liquor and other goods produced by the military throughout the country. The junta has issued orders to police stations and municipal offices in all states and regions to force shopping centers, stores, shops and restaurants - including those in the junta's base of power, the capital Naypyitaw - to sell its products, a member of the ward administration in Yangon's North Okkalapa township told RFA. He said his office had been assigned to "check if the shops and restaurants sell the military-produced goods and submit a paper report by 6:00 p.m. every day." The junta has yet to release any information about the campaign or what kind of action it might take against those who boycott the military's products. Translated by Kyaw Min Htun. Edited by Joshua Lipes and Malcolm Foster. Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content September not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Lawmakers Stress Need for Pressure on Myanmar to End Rights Crisis By Ingyin Naing September 15, 2023 U.S. lawmakers from both major parties have voiced their resolve to rally international pressure for an end to the suffering of the people of Myanmar at the hands of the military junta that cut off democratic rule in the country in February 2021. "We are rededicating ourselves to human rights and peace for the people of Burma," said Representative Chris Smith, a Republican and the co-chair of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, following a hearing on human rights in Myanmar this week. "We need to do much more for the people who are suffering so horrifically at the hands of a barbaric regime," Smith told VOA. He called for renewed efforts "to stop the weapons from flowing," whether it be from India, China or Russia, and said there needs to be "a more aggressive embargo, particularly on oil, which is a source of great revenue for the junta." Representative Ilhan Omar, a Democrat, said members of the committee "want to make sure that the genocide that was experienced by the Rohingya and everything that has gone on in Myanmar will not be forgotten a that we keep it in the forefront here in Congress." Omar told VOA the hearing had served to make sure that the world is working together to "care about the people of Myanmar, try to provide humanitarian aid, make sure that there is a civilian government, but also not forget the displaced, and the internally displaced people and refugees, as we try to think about humanitarian aid." Democratic Representative James P. McGovern, a long-standing advocate for human rights, is co-chair of the Lantos commission, which according to its website "is charged with promoting, defending and advocating for international human rights as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other relevant human rights instruments." McGovern said in his opening remarks that the primary question for the commission is whether Congress, the Biden administration and the international community "are doing all that we can to be wind at the backs of those fighting for human rights and to restore democracy in Burma." He said the hearing was also an opportunity to review the effectiveness of the Burma Unified through Rigorous Military Accountability (BURMA) Act, which was signed into law in December 2022. It contains a number of economic and diplomatic measures to bring pressure for a restoration of democracy in Myanmar. "Its implementation is underway," McGovern said, "so today's discussion is an opportunity to take stock of what has been done and ask: What has been achieved, how do we know if we're making progress and what more can we do?" Testimony U.S. State Department officials who testified at the hearing detailed the government's efforts to exert economic and political pressure on the junta while highlighting support for humanitarian assistance, including for Rohingya refugees in neighboring Bangladesh. U.N. Special Rapporteur Tom Andrews, a witness at the hearing and a former U.S. congressman, called for the United States to intensify sanctions against the military rulers, targeting their primary revenue source: oil and gas sales. "We need to have more sanctions imposed," Andrews said. "I urge the U.S. to join the European Union and immediately impose sanctions on the junta's single largest source of revenue, the Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprise." The company, also known as MOGE, is estimated to generate $1.5 billion in annual revenue, about half of the country's foreign currency earnings. "If you can stop the money, you can cut their ability to continue these atrocities," he said, referring to civilian deaths at the hands of the military. In a post-hearing interview with VOA, Andrews said he was encouraged by the hearing. "The fact that the United States Congress is asking these questions of the administration is a very positive sign," he said. Malaki Karen, a prominent Rohingya human rights activist, also testified at the hearing, bringing attention to the plight of the Rohingya community and the need for a sustained commitment by the U.S. and the international community. "We want more participation from the U.S., the United Nations, Bangladesh and influential countries which care about human rights," Karen said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Key Afghan-Pakistan Border Crossing Reopens Week After Gunbattle By RFE/RL's Radio Azadi, RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal September 15, 2023 Customs officials reopened a key border crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan to trucks and pedestrians early on September 15, nine days after the Torkham checkpoint was closed when a gunbattle reportedly erupted between Taliban troops and Pakistani border guards. The gateway is on a key transit route between the tense South Asian neighbors and is a vital link for residents on both sides of the border. It lies at the end of Pakistan's N-5 National Highway about 5 kilometers west of the Khyber Pass summit. Sporadic closures have raised fears of deteriorating Pakistan-Taliban relations two years after the radical fundamentalist group took control of Afghanistan as U.S.-led international troops withdrew after two decades of war. The Afghan Taliban's alleged support of Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) extremists is at the center of tensions. The closure created massive lines of hundreds of stranded trucks and left thousands, including sick people seeking medical treatment across the border, seeking shelter in local mosques and other places. The head of the Afghan-Pakistani Joint Chamber of Commerce said the closure had cost businesses millions of dollars. The acting foreign minister for the Taliban-led Afghan government late on September 14 urged Pakistani authorities to reopen transit routes. That discussion followed a week of efforts to reach agreement on ensuring security and other aspects of a reopening. The Pakistani Army took control of the area of Khyber district from Torkham to the Lundi Kotal checkpoint after a firefight on September 6 between Pakistani and Taliban troops. There were contradictory reports of casualties in that incident, which reportedly began when Pakistani guards intervened after the Taliban tried to erect a structure on the Afghan side of the gate. Torkham has undergone sporadic closures since the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan took over in August 2021. In early August, Torkham was closed briefly after another clash between Pakistani border forces and Taliban guards. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/afghanistan-pakistan- torkham-reopens/32593876.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pakistani Taliban Attempts Land Grab To Boost Insurgency Against Islamabad By Abubakar Siddique, Majeed Babar September 16, 2023 A middle-aged lawyer, Nia Beg, is anxious after a large incursion by Islamist militants rattled his homeland in northwestern Pakistan this month. Beg is Kalash, and he follows the ancient pagan religion practiced in Bumburet and other remote valleys collectively called Kalash in the northwestern district of Chitral, which borders eastern Afghanistan. He says that attacks by scores of Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) on several villages in Kalash pose hard questions about the security of Chitral, which had rarely seen Taliban violence and is one of Pakistan's top tourist destinations because of its unique culture and natural beauty. "My children ask me, 'How will we now go to school or walk freely in our village?'" he told RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal after the Taliban incursion into Chitral that began on September 6. Pakistan claimed to have repulsed the attack and forced the TTP militants to retreat into Afghanistan. On September 6, the military said four soldiers and 12 militants were killed in clashes. In a sign that all was not well in Chitral, the government imposed a three-day curfew in the mountainous region. On September 10, the military said it killed seven more militants in ongoing "sanitization" operations. Gunship helicopters were also used, which suggests some of the TTP militants were well entrenched. "Residents of Kalash are extremely frightened because the Taliban are religious extremists," Abdul Majeed Qureshi, a local Muslim leader, told Radio Mashaal. "We want the Taliban attacks to end permanently," he added. The once-peaceful Chitral region now appears to be in the crosshairs of the TTP, whose insurgency has grown remarkably after its ideological and organizational ally, the Afghan Taliban, returned to power in Afghanistan two years ago. Experts say the surprise incursion into Chitral showcases the TTP's attempt to reestablish a territorial foothold in Pakistan. After its emergence in 2007, the TTP controlled large areas in the northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. But by 2014, Islamabad's military operations had forced it to flee into neighboring Afghanistan, which shares a more than 2,600-kilometer border with Pakistan. "Chitral's complex terrain and geographical importance made it a significant option for the TTP to challenge the state's territorial control," said Abdul Sayed, a Sweden-based researcher who tracks the TTP. "The TTP's attack on Chitral is part of its ambition to establish a stronghold on the Pakistani side of the border," he added. Chitral, now divided into Upper and Lower Chitral districts, consists of high-altitude valleys in the Hindu Kush Mountains. It borders the eastern Afghan provinces of Kunar, Nuristan, and Badakhshan. A narrow strip of Afghan territory separates it from China and Tajikistan, which gives the region great strategic significance. "The TTP wants to carve out a new safe haven that could serve its objectives," said Ihsanullah Tipu Mehsud, director of news at Khorasan Diary, a website tracking militant groups in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Mehsud argues that the TTP's incursion into Chitral "is very dangerous" because the group might want to carve out other sanctuaries in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces, which form Pakistan's western border with Afghanistan. After its emergence in 2007 as an umbrella alliance of Pakistani Taliban groups, the TTP swiftly extended its control over large parts of the South Waziristan, North Waziristan, Mohmand, Bajaur, and Swat districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Years of TTP attacks and the Pakistani Army's counterinsurgency killed more than 80,000 Pakistanis, predominantly ethnic Pashtuns. The violence also displaced more than 6 million Pashtuns. "The TTP is seeking to restore some of the territorial control it once enjoyed in regions such as Swat and Waziristan," Mehsud said. TTP violence has risen dramatically since the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in August 2021. The Taliban-led government brokered negotiations between Islamabad and the TTP, but these ended in November after the TTP formally declared that its cease-fire with Islamabad was over. According to the Pakistani Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, a think tank in Islamabad, this August was the most violent month since November 2014. The TTP claimed some 147 attacks that month. During the first eight months of the year, 227 Pakistanis were killed and 497 were injured in 22 suicide attacks, mostly claimed by the Pakistani Taliban. The Pakistani military and law enforcement have endured mounting losses. At least 120 soldiers and military officers were killed in militant attacks in the first six months of this year. The police, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, have had similar losses. Rising TTP violence has sharply deteriorated relations between longtime allies Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban. Islamabad swiftly closed its main border crossing with Afghanistan in Torkham, which is some 400 kilometers to the south. It has also launched a crackdown on an estimated 3 million Afghan refugees and migrants in the country. "We expect the Afghan interim authorities...to ensure that Afghan territory is not used as a launching pad for terrorist attacks against Pakistan," said the Foreign Ministry in Islamabad on September 11 in response to a Taliban statement demanding the reopening of Torkham. The border crossing was reopened on September 15. Sayed said the mountainous border between Chitral and the eastern Afghan province of Nuristan comprises deserted areas known as No-Man's Land. "This could give the Afghan Taliban the pretext that the TTP has not attacked from areas under their control," he said. Mehsud said the TTP attack was also encouraged by the relatively small presence of security forces in Chitral. It is also the only region where the Pakistani border fencing with Afghanistan is incomplete. "Things are reaching a boiling point between the two countries," Mehsud noted. "Pakistan might launch surgical attacks or kinetic actions inside Afghanistan to target the TTP leaders and their bases." On September 10, an improvised explosive device targeted a senior TTP commander, Badshah Khan, in the southeastern Afghan province of Paktika. In Chitral, civilians remain anxious in the aftermath of the TTP attack. "People are worried that if the Taliban continues to attack, tourists will stop coming," said Ihkamuddin, a local politician in Bumburet. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/pakistani-taliban-land- grab-insurgency-islamabad/32595679.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pakistani PM Urges Increased Collaboration With Afghan Taliban to Achieve Shared Goals By Ayaz Gul September 17, 2023 Pakistan's caretaker prime minister, Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, has written a letter to his Taliban counterpart in Afghanistan, stressing the need to address the security and economic challenges facing both countries. Kakar's letter to Taliban Prime Minister Mullah Hasan Akhund comes amid persistent tensions over Islamabad's complaints that Kabul is not doing enough to prevent cross-border "terrorist" attacks being planned on Afghan soil. While discussing the letter's contents Sunday, a Pakistani official told VOA it was written to thank Akhund for his recent "felicitation message" to Kakar after he assumed office last month. The official, requesting anonymity as he was not authorized to speak to the media publicly, said that Kakar conveyed "our security concerns" and underlined the need to jointly address them to allow both countries to expand economic and trade cooperation. "Enhanced regional trade and connectivity remains vital for the prosperity of our peoples. We must work assiduously to achieve these shared goals," the Pakistani prime minister wrote. VOA reached out to the Pakistani information minister for comment on the reported letter sent to the Taliban prime minister but did not get a response immediately, nor have Taliban authorities in Kabul shared any reaction with the media. Pakistan has experienced a resurgence in militant violence since the Taliban reclaimed power two years ago, when the United States and NATO allies withdrew all their troops after nearly two decades of foreign military involvement in the South Asian nation. Officials in Islamabad say that the Taliban takeover encouraged fugitive leaders and fighters of the banned Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP, to move to the Afghan side of the border and plot increasingly deadly attacks with "greater operational freedom" against Pakistani security forces. Hundreds of Pakistanis, mostly police and soldiers, have died in almost daily attacks by TTP and Baluch insurgents in the last year. Northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and southwestern Baluchistan provinces bordering Afghanistan bear the brunt of the violence. The Baluch insurgents have been fighting for the independence of Baluchistan from Pakistan. Taliban authorities deny that Afghan soil is being used to threaten other countries, including Pakistan, and have urged Islamabad to avoid blaming Kabul for its internal security challenges. Speaking to VOA last week, Kakar did not rule out the possibility of cross-border military action or drone strikes against suspected TTP bases in Afghanistan. "Wherever we believe that action is required to protect our territory and people, we will take it," the prime minister said, declining to discuss operational details. Pakistani officials say they have shared a list of suspected Afghan Taliban fighters who joined TTP militants in launching recent cross-border "terrorist" attacks, including a raid on security outposts in the northern Chitral district. The TTP claimed responsibility for mounting the assault that the Pakistani army said had killed four soldiers and 12 assailants. A Pakistani security official who requested anonymity told VOA that around 1,000 heavily armed militants, including many Afghans, participated in the cross-border Chitral attack. He said that if the Pakistani military hadn't detected the "concentration and movement" of the militants on the Afghan side beforehand, they would have faced significant losses during the raid. The TTP, also known as the Pakistani Taliban, is an offshoot and close ally of the Afghan Taliban. The United States has listed the group as a global terrorist organization. The United Nations estimated in its latest report that at least 4,000 TTP members are active in Afghanistan. The landlocked, war-torn country heavily relies on Pakistani roads and seaports to conduct trade with other countries. Earlier this month, Islamabad closed a main Afghan border crossing for passengers and commercial truck convoys for nine days over security and terrorism concerns, stranding thousands of vehicles and travelers on both sides. The Torkham border gate was reopened for normal traffic on Friday after officials said they had received assurances from the Taliban that they would not allow Afghan soil to be used for terrorist attacks against Pakistan. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address September 15, 2023 Release Joint Press Release: Extended Deterrence Strategy and Consultation Group Building on the May 2022 summit statement by President Yoon Suk Yeol and President Joseph R. Biden to reactivate the Republic of Korea (ROK) and the United States Extended Deterrence Strategy and Consultation Group (EDSCG), the foreign affairs and defense agencies of the two countries held the 4th annual high-level EDSCG meeting at the Vice Minister/Under Secretary level on September 15, 2023, in Seoul, the first EDSCG meeting held in the Republic of Korea. ROK First Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Chang Hojin and ROK Vice Minister of National Defense Shin Beomchul led the ROK delegation. Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Affairs Bonnie Jenkins and Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Sasha Baker headed the U.S. delegation. This fourth meeting of the EDSCG advanced U.S. and ROK comprehensive discussions on strategy and policy issues to strengthen Alliance deterrence on the Korean Peninsula and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Both sides shared their assessments and concerns about the DPRK's threatening and irresponsible rhetoric and behavior, including its ongoing missile launches and continued pursuit of destabilizing and illicit WMD and ballistic missile programs. Participants reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to use all available leversaincluding diplomatic, informational, military, and economic toolsato strengthen deterrence and reinforce the U.S. security commitment to the ROK. Participants examined the recent progress the United States and the ROK have made to strengthen extended deterrence, including through the April 2023 Washington Declaration and successful establishment of the ROK-U.S. Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) in July. The United States and the Republic of Korea reviewed their on-going bilateral cooperation to deter DPRK nuclear and non-nuclear aggression and thus to enhance security on the Korean Peninsula and in the region, and discussed various measures to further strengthen the Alliance's deterrence and defense posture. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the complete denuclearization of the DPRK in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions. They emphasized that the DPRK's unprecedented number of ballistic missile launches, including multiple intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), and space launches using ballistic missile technology seriously undermine regional and global security. The two sides agreed to further enhance coordination to address DPRK sanctions evasion and illicit cyber activities, using diplomatic, informational, military, and economic tools. The United States reiterated its strong support for the goals of the ROK's Audacious Initiative. Both sides recognized the importance of the strategic use of information for enhancing deterrence. The United States and ROK expressed their strongest concern about DPRK-Russia cooperation inconsistent with UNSC resolutions, and discussed its implications for DPRK's attempts to advance its illicit nuclear and ballistic missile programs, as well as the threat posed by DPRK assistance to Russia's war effort in Ukraine. Both sides agreed on the importance of upholding and fully implementing all relevant UNSC resolutions. In the context of mounting DPRK threats to regional stability, in part facilitated by third parties' shielding of the DPRK from consequences for its brazen UNSCR violations, the United States underlined its ironclad and unwavering security commitment to the Republic of Korea, using the full range of U.S. defense capabilities, including nuclear, conventional, missile defense, and other advanced non-nuclear capabilities, to provide extended deterrence for the ROK. Both sides reaffirmed that any nuclear attack by the DPRK against the ROK will be met with a swift, overwhelming, and decisive response. The U.S. side also reiterated that any nuclear attack by the DPRK against the United States or its allies is unacceptable and will result in the end of the Kim regime. As bilateral cooperation on extended deterrence is advancing rapidly, the participants affirmed the importance of high-level policy and strategic coordination. The EDSCG, mutually complementary with other alliance bodies, will facilitate a strategic whole-of-government approach to strengthen U.S. and ROK extended deterrence cooperation and thus to enhance security on the Korean Peninsula and promote regional peace and stability. The next high-level EDSCG engagement will be held in 2024. https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3526956/ NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US warned over provocative drills as enhanced military ties with Seoul during Incheon Landing anniv poses threats to peace Global Times Enhancing military ties during Incheon Landing anniversary 'poses threats to peace' By Wang Qi and Liu Xuanzun Published: Sep 15, 2023 11:12 PM From joint military drills and arms sales to defense dialogues, the US and South Korea are increasingly enhancing their military alliance, as the two countries commemorate the 73rd anniversary of the Incheon Landing operation in the Korean War (1950-53), shrugging off opposition from North Korea. Chinese experts said the latest military move from the US and South Korea indicates the US intention to use military means to deal with security issues on the Korean Peninsula, which will lead to a deterioration of the situation and make political reconciliation on the peninsula increasingly remote. Given that the latest joint military exercise is very close to the Yellow Sea of China, bringing a strong sense of targeted provocation, experts warned that the US was not the winner in Korean War, and if history repeats itself, the US will not be able to afford the cost of playing with fire on China's doorstep. During a commemoration ceremony on Friday, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol hailed the US-South Korea military alliance and emphasized the "nuclear and missile threats" from North Korea. The ceremony took place aboard the Nojeokbong landing ship in Incheon, with the participation of approximately 1,300 soldiers, alongside war veterans from the US and Canada, according to the Yonhap News Agency. Also on Friday, a high-level deterrence dialogue between South Korea and the US opened in Seoul, following a meeting between the leaders of North Korea and Russia. Officials from both sides condemned the Moscow-Pyongyang military cooperation, and warned that transferring weapons is a grave violation of UN Security Council resolutions, according to Yonhap. At the same time, South Korean media reported that senior defense officials from Seoul and Washington have agreed to cooperate in utilizing 5G wireless technology in combined operations, citing Seoul's defense ministry. On Wednesday, the US State Department approved a Foreign Military Sale to South Korea of up to 25 F-35A radar-evading fighters and related equipment. According to Yonhap, a US amphibious ready group led by the USS America amphibious assault ship and the Canadian frigate HMCS Vancouver participated in a joint exercise with the South Korean Navy on Thursday. Wei Dongxu, a Beijing-based military expert, told the Global Times on Friday that the deployment of the large US warship to the exercise in the Yellow Sea aims to display the US military's capability to rapidly send reinforcements and intervene in any situation in the Korean Peninsula at anytime and that it can choose any landing point it wants. In addition, the USS America, often also dubbed a small aircraft carrier, can carry as many as 20 F-35B stealth short takeoff and vertical landing fighter jets, which are capable of conducting air raids and assaults on the Korean Peninsula, Wei said. The joint drills outlined the US aim of defeating North Korea militarily, said Li Haidong, a professor at the China Foreign Affairs University, "The US and South Korea hope to deal with security issues on the Korean Peninsula through military means rather than dialogue and negotiation." That means the situation of military confrontation on the Korean Peninsula will worsen and remain at a high risk, Li said, noting that hopes for the reconciliation process on the Korean Peninsula have also dimmed due to Seoul's reliance on the US. It is also reported that the drill was held on China's doorstep in the Yellow Sea. According to the China Maritime Safety Administration, the Dalian Maritime Safety Administration on Thursday issued a navigation warning that a military mission was being carried out from 0:00 on September 15 to 18:00 on September 18, in the northern part of the Yellow Sea and the Bohai Strait. In addition to targeting North Korea, the US also has strong intentions to deter China and Russia. This strategic design of creating conflict and confrontation will pose greater threats to peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, which is a crime that the US has committed against regional countries out of its own strategic interests, Li said. "The US was not the winner on the Korean Peninsula, and the Incheon Landing is only one of the few US victories in the Korean War," said Chinese military expert Song Zhongping, "There is nothing to commemorate in the brutal war itself. Instead, let the peninsula maintain its hard-won peace - that should be the lesson that the US must remember." Americans should have learned that they should "never play with fire" on the Korean Peninsula, let alone on China's doorstep, after looking back into history, because once a crisis breaks out, it will bring a price that the US cannot afford, Song said. In the Korean War, the US' military adventurism following the Incheon Landing eventually led to Washington's successive defeats with the entry of the Chinese People's Volunteers, experts said, noting that the Yellow Sea is so small and close to China that it can be entirely and easily covered by Chinese monitoring and fire, and US warships are very vulnerable targets. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Northern Fleet arctic grouping arrives at New Siberian Islands 14.09.2023 The Arctic expeditionary ship grouping of the Northern Fleet, which operates in the Arctic Ocean under the command of Deputy Commander of the Northern Fleet Vice-Admiral Oleg Golubev arrived at the New Siberian Islands archipelago in the Laptev Sea. During the Laptev Sea crossing, the crews of the large anti-submarine ship Vice-Admiral Kulakov and the large landing ship Aleksandr Otrakovsky carried out a number of exercises to protect and defend the detachment of ships. In the course of the exercise, the actions of missile-artillery combat units, anti-submarine weapon systems and personnel of anti-terrorist units were practised. During the exercise, practical combat exercises were carried out using various shipboard weapon systems and small arms. Another 12th campaign of the Arctic expeditionary ship grouping of the Northern Fleet on the seas of the Arctic Ocean began on 10 August. In the course of the event, the crews conduct exercises to defend Russia's island and continental territories in the Arctic, as well as to ensure the safety of maritime navigation and other maritime economic activities of Russia in the Arctic zone. A number of training and combat events have already taken place off the archipelagos of Franz Josef Land and Novaya Zemlya. In the near future, similar exercises will be conducted in selected areas of the Laptev Sea and the East Siberian Sea. Department for Media Affairs and Information NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Restrictions on import of vehicles registered in Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland Press releases, 15.9.2023 Finland will implement the European Commission's guidance (FAQ) on prohibiting the import of vehicles registered in Russia. From now on, passenger cars registered in Russia may be imported to Finland only by EU citizens who are permanently resident in Russia or their family members, by diplomats or those with comparable diplomatic status, or for humanitarian reasons. These restrictions will enter into force the night between Friday 15 September and Saturday 16 September at 00.00. Finland implements in full all sanctions imposed by the EU as a response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Finland pays particular attention to the effective implementation of sanctions and to the prevention of circumvention of sanctions. Circumvention of sanctions is a particular challenge on EU border states and they must all implement effective and joint efforts to prevent any circumvention. Finland stresses the importance of having a common interpretation among the EU Member States, and especially among the EU border states, of the sanctions regulations. On 8 September, the European Commission issued a guidance on the interpretation of prohibiting imports of passenger cars into the European Union. According to the Commission's guidance, it is prohibited under Council Regulation (EU) No 833/2014 to import any vehicles registered in Russia and having a Russian license plate into the European Union even temporarily for touristic travels. The Commission updated its interpretation on 12 September. It emphasises that vehicles are especially prone to circumvention and that the national competent authorities should pay particular attention to them. Finland will implement the Commission's new guidance on the night between Friday 15 September and Saturday 16 September at 00.00 as outlined in the national interpretation (see appendix). Enforcing the import ban means that all entry into Finland of passenger cars having a Russian license plate will be prohibited. According to Finland's interpretation, the import ban does not apply to EU/EEA citizens permanently resident in Russia (including dual citizens) or to their family members. Similarly, the ban does not apply to diplomatic vehicles and vehicles used to enter the country for humanitarian reasons. Vehicles having a Russian license plate that are already in Finland must be removed from the country by 16 March 2024. The interpretation does not change the conditions for individuals entering into Finland. The implementation of the import ban on vehicles and its impacts will be monitored. The interpretation will be revised as necessary. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia expels 2 senior U.S. diplomats People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 10:38, September 15, 2023 MOSCOW, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Russia has decided to expel two senior U.S. diplomats, who are accused of carrying out activities "incompatible with their diplomatic status," the foreign ministry said Thursday. U.S. Ambassador to Russia Lynne Tracy was summoned to the ministry, where she was given a note informing her of the activities being carried out by the two diplomats. According to a statement by the ministry, the first secretary of the U.S. embassy, Jeffrey Sillin, and the second secretary, David Bernstein, are accused of "conducting illegal activities," by communicating with Russian citizen Robert Shonov, who was previously charged with "confidential cooperation" with a foreign state and carrying out assignments "aimed at harming Russia's national security." Therefore, Sillin and Bernstein have been declared personae non gratae and been instructed to leave Russia within seven days, said the ministry. The "illegal activities of the U.S. diplomatic mission," including the interference in international affairs, "are unacceptable," and will be "resolutely suppressed," stated the ministry. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US imposes sanctions on Russian automakers Iran Press TV Friday, 15 September 2023 4:25 PM The US Treasury Department has targeted Russia with new sanctions over the war in Ukraine, adding 20 people and over 100 entities to its updated blacklist. The Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) on Thursday blacklisted Russian automakers AvtoVAZ, Moskvich, GAZ Group, and Sollers. Among the individuals targeted in the latest sanctions are former President of Transmashholding Andrey Bokarev and the head of Ural Mining and Metallurgical Company Iskander Makhmudov. Both have had their US-based assets frozen while all US-based transactions have been blocked. The state-owned road company Avtodor, as well as Russia's largest manufacturer of locomotives and rail equipment Transmashholding were also added to the list of banned Russian companies. Russian regional lender Ak Bars Bank was also added to the sanctions list. The founder and largest shareholder of the country's third-largest copper producer Russian Copper Company (RMK), Igor Altushkin, was also added to the list. In addition, over 150 foreign companies and individuals based in Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and Georgia were also targeted in the sanctions in an attempt to crack down on evasion of penalties previously imposed on Russia. US officials claim the companies had assisted Russians in obtaining "dual-use goods" that could have military applications, such as drone cameras, high-performance optical filters, and lithium batteries. The companies had also provided other services, including ship-repairs, to vehicles affiliated with Russia's Ministry of Defense. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian pilot tried to down UK spy aircraft over Black Sea: Report Iran Press TV Friday, 15 September 2023 7:07 AM A report has claimed that a Russian pilot had tried to shoot down a British spy plane over the Black Sea last year, firing missiles at the Royal Air Force aircraft in an incident previously confirmed by Moscow to be caused by a "technical malfunction." The BBC reported on Thursday that the pilot of one of two Russian Su-27 fighter jets that approached the RAF RC-135 Rivet Joint aircraft on September 29, 2022, fired missiles at the spy plane after believing he had received permission. Three senior Western defense sources familiar with the incident told the BBC that Russian communications intercepted by the RAF RC-135 Rivet Joint aircraft, which has sensors to intercept communications, showed that one of the pilots misinterpreted an ambiguous command from a Russian ground station. According to the report, the first missile missed the aircraft, while the second one simply fell from the wing, suggesting the weapon either malfunctioned or that the launch was aborted. The intercepted communication also showed that the second Russian pilot did not fire any missiles and tried to get his comrade to stop. Back then, Russia said the incident was caused by a "technical malfunction", and the UK's Ministry of Defense downplayed the incident. UK Defense Secretary Ben Wallace told lawmakers in October that a Russian jet had "released a missile in the vicinity of'' a British plane and that he had demanded an explanation from Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. He added that Moscow had answered that "it was a technical malfunction of the Su-27 fighter." "We do not consider this incident to constitute a deliberate escalation on the part of the Russians, and our analysis concurs that it was due to a malfunction," Wallace said. Asked about Thursday's report, Britain's Ministry of Defense said Wallace had "informed the House of Commons within three weeks of the event occurring, in the interest of transparency and safety." "Our intent has always been to protect the safety of our operations, avoid unnecessary escalation, and inform the public and international community," the ministry said. A spokesman for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Max Blain, said the premier was confident Wallace hadn't misled lawmakers with his statement. Blain further said that "obviously there are limitations on some of the operational detail that can be put into the public domain" for security reasons. Despite the near shootdown, RAF has continued to conduct surveillance flights over the Black Sea, while being escorted by Typhoon fighter jets armed with air-to-air missiles. Russia began its special military operation in Ukraine on February 24, 2022. Moscow said the operation was aimed at defending Ukraine's pro-Russia population in Donetsk and Luhansk, eastern Ukrainian regions, against persecution by Kiev. Moscow has frequently warned that a continued supply of Western arms and military equipment for the Ukrainian military would only prolong the war. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address A New Mobilization? It's The Last Thing The Kremlin Wants Ahead Of Next Year's Presidential Election By Mike Eckel September 15, 2023 The Russian woman, who identified herself as Yelena, called into the live teleconference hosted by the governor of the Leningrad region earlier this month, complaining about the conditions her husband was fighting under in Ukraine and pleading for help for her exhausted spouse. "My husband has been fighting, living, sleeping, eating in a trench for almost 10 months now. He has never been on leave during this time. Of course, it's enormous physical and moral fatigue. I would even say exhaustion," she said in the September 4 call. "We, the wives, children, mothers of the mobilized send humanitarian aid.... We took all the men's work on ourselves, everyday life, raising children. But human resources are not limitless." The governor, Aleksandr Drozdenko, promised to do what he could: "Thank you for your support, for the front, for your husbands, brothers, sons, for their return home. Onward to victory!" Yelena's complaints, though impossible to verify, are not isolated. They're the latest in a growing litany of grievances from soldiers, their spouses and parents, and supporters of Russia's war underscoring long-known systemic problems within Russia's armed forces. The weight of the complaints has added to calls from some commanders, hawkish military bloggers, and nationalists that Russia needs more soldiers -- just as the Kremlin has shown some potential signs that it is about to embark on a new effort to bolster its fighting forces. Just don't call it a mobilization. "I'm not sure that another wave of mobilization will [occur] in the next few weeks. But I'm sure" it will happen, said Ian Matveev, a Russian military analyst affiliated with the Anti-Corruption Foundation, an organization set up by imprisoned opposition activist Aleksei Navalny. "It's connected with the necessity of war. Russian government and military officials are trying to find new troops for voluntary contracts now. But they aren't successful now. And there's no successes at the front," Matveev said. "It makes mobilization inevitable." Digital Draft Since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the Kremlin has struggled to insulate the wider Russian population from the grim realities of war -- something increasingly difficult as estimates of Russian casualties top as many as 120,000 dead and 180,000 wounded. In September 2022, after months of stealthy recruiting efforts and with battlefield progress stalled, the Kremlin announced a mobilization of hundreds of thousands of Russians. It was the country's first since World War II and was a tacit admission that the Kremlin faced serious battlefield difficulties, bringing the war closer to home for ordinary Russians. Some 300,000 Russians were ultimately mobilized and deployed. Along with soldiers from the Wagner mercenary group, which enlisted thousands of prison inmates, the effort stabilized Russian lines, though it failed to allow for any major new offensives against Ukrainian forces. The recruitment and mobilization efforts shined a harsh light on the antiquated systems used by military recruiters to identify eligible men and compel them to serve. Authorities responded by modernizing their computer systems to track eligible men, and lawmakers moved to set up a digital database that makes it easier to serve draft papers. The system relies on an existing national government web portal called Gosuslugi, which Russians use to do things such as pay taxes or apply for pension or disability benefits. Under a new law, a person can be penalized for ignoring draft notices, regardless of whether they use Gosuslugi, including being banned from leaving the country, prohibited from driving, or getting a home or registering small businesses. More recently, lawmakers moved to raise the age limit for Russians in the military reserve by five years. And just this week, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu issued new orders listing health conditions and diseases that will exempt draft-age men from service. "Throughout this year, we've seen how the Russian government is frantically trying to patch up all these seams and holes, to establish this entire mobilization procedure," said Sergei Krivenko, director of Citizen and Army, a Russian rights group that provides legal representation to conscripted soldiers. "Amendments and electronic summonses are being adopted, fines are being tightened, and this whole system is being adjusted," he told Current Time, the Russian-language network run by RFE/RL in cooperation with VOA. "And this is the most important indicator that the military registration and enlistment office system is being streamlined: for conscription and for mobilization, of course." At the beginning of September, an edict purportedly signed by Shoigu circulated on Telegram and other social media channels, detailing an upcoming mobilization order. It was derided as a fake by some officials, including Andrei Kartapolov, an influential lawmaker and head of the Defense Committee in the Duma, Russia's lower house of parliament. That was preceded by other unconfirmed reports on Telegram, including one that said the Kremlin's Security Council had settled on a plan for 1.2 million draft summonses to be sent out beginning September 25, with about one-third of that figure targeted for actual mobilization. The question of a new mobilization was also raised earlier this week at an economic forum in the Far Eastern port of Vladivostok, attended by President Vladimir Putin. There was no need, Putin said, because 270,000 people had volunteered for military service over the past six to seven months. "People willingly enroll in the military under today's conditions, realizing that they will ultimately end up at the front," he said on September 12. "Our men, Russian men, realizing that they can give their lives for the motherland or be seriously wounded, still do it, consciously and voluntarily, defending the interests of the motherland." That same day, however, a closely read Telegram channel called VChK-OGPU -- which is known for leaks from the Federal Security Service, Russia's main domestic intelligence agency -- published a post saying preparations were already under way for the second wave of mobilization. The measures, the post said, were delayed until after countrywide local and regional elections finished on September 10, and needed to be put in place before the presidential election in March 2024, in which Putin is expected to run again. The issue, according to the VChK-OGPU post, had sparked "severe disagreements" among hawkish national-security officials and the Presidential Administration, an influential, domestic-policy, executive-branch entity within the Kremlin. The Presidential Administration, "fearing an unpredictable reaction from both the bottom and the very top, insists on maintaining the current order, while the [hawks], having fallen into euphoria, have decided to go all-in," it said. In its daily report on September 11, the Ukrainian military's General Staff, which has sought to exaggerate Russian problems as a part of its propaganda and information warfare efforts, said heavy casualties will force Russian commanders to start mass mobilization, aiming for between 400,000 to 700,000 people, along with another 40,000 people from the Russian region of Chechnya. In an interview with a regional TV channel on September 1, Andrei Gurulyov, another influential Duma lawmaker who is also known for close ties to military officials, also batted away the rumors of a new mobilization, saying Russia's system of equipping, arming, training, and deploying soldiers wasn't capable of processing large numbers all at once. Moreover, Russia's next biannual conscription -- whereby all men between 18-27 are obliged to serve one year in the armed forces -- is set to begin on October 1. Though the law forbids deploying those conscripts to Ukraine, they will still need to be equipped, clothed, and transported to training bases -- at the same time any possible mass mobilization might occur. "Someone is always trying to stir up trouble, rumors of mobilization, and for what?" Gurulyov said in the interview. "Yes, today there is a war going on. Today people have been sent, they're going, and we have our own obligations to fulfill in our region. "But there's a second point: In order to mobilize masses -- let's say mobilize 3 million troops -- we need to get them weapons, equipment, clothing, ammunition, the means for fighting, for logistics, fuel, food, and everything else," he said. "To mobilize people all at once, the industrial complex just won't be able to respond." That, experts say, suggests that Russian recruiters may simply rely on the existing system of recruitment: patriotic advertising campaigns that highlight lucrative salaries and benefits for volunteer soldiers, along with veterans' pensions and death benefits for widows. "Look, it won't happen in the near future, because the conscription for military service begins October 1," Mikhail Salkin, a Russian lawyer and rights activist, told RFE/RL. "Accordingly, the military registration and enlistment offices simply cannot cope with the processing and broad mobilization of conscripts. And our conscription lasts until December, so I think that this will definitely not happen during the conscription period. "And then we have a presidential election, under which, probably, these sorts of stressful situations, like mobilization, won't happen publicly," Salkin said. 'If The Authorities Refute Something, It Will Definitely Happen' Still, the Kremlin -- and in particular, the Presidential Administration, which keeps a close eye on national sentiment and public opinion -- has reportedly begun to respond more aggressively to talk of a new mobilization. At least two Russian organizations that are considered pro-government have received "urgent requests" from the Presidential Administration to refrain from covering any rumors of a new mobilization. According to the online news site Meduza, media have even been ordered to not cover public refutations or denials by officials or Duma lawmakers of such rumors. "And as we all know in Russia, if the authorities refute something, then it will definitely happen," one journalist at a Russian tabloid told Meduza. Soldiers who have served in Ukraine, meanwhile, also say they're expecting another mobilization. Speaking to RFE/RL's Idel.Realities, while on leave from fighting in Ukraine, Almaz, a Tatar man who previously served in Chechnya, said the Ukraine conflict was "a thousand times more terrible." The Ukrainians "have a lot of weapons. On our side, many people are dying, and there aren't enough people. There will be a new mobilization. It's unavoidable." Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-new-mobilization- putin-election-ukraine-war/32594669.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Putin, Lukashenka Discuss Bilateral Ties, Meeting With North Korean Leader By RFE/RL's Belarus Service September 15, 2023 Authoritarian Belarusian ruler Alyaksandr Lukashenka met with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, on September 15 in the resort city of Sochi for talks on bilateral ties and integration within the so-called union state amid their international isolation over the Kremlin's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The Kremlin said in a statement the two leaders also discussed Putin's meeting this week with North Korea's Kim Jong Un, who offered his country's "full and unconditional support" to defend what he said was Russia's security interests. The statement said Lukashenka noted at the Sochi meeting -- the seventh time Putin and Lukashanka have met this year alone -- that "three more months" are needed to accomplish the needed steps to complete the integration efforts between Russia and Belarus, and he expressed hope that his country will be included in the development of the Russia-North Korea partnership. He did not elaborate. Putin called relations with Belarus "stable and reliable" while also highlighting "mutual issues and mutual obligations." He also called speculation that he had asked Kim for help in fighting the war against Ukraine "complete nonsense." Kim is reported to have visited military- and civil-aviation factories in Komsomolsk-on-Amur on September 15, completing his visit to Russia. While Belarus has not sent forces to join Russia's war in Ukraine, it has allowed Moscow to use its territory as a staging ground for the full-scale invasion it launched in February 2022. The two allies signed documents allowing for the placement of Russian tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of Belarus -- the first relocation of such warheads outside Russia since the fall of the Soviet Union -- in May. The announcement sparked immediate criticism from governments around the world, while NATO called it "dangerous and irresponsible." On September 13, the European Parliament passed a resolution condemning Belarus's involvement in Russia's war on Ukraine and called Lukashenka's regime "an accomplice in the crimes committed by Russia." The resolution expressed concern about "the rampant political, economic, military, and cultural subordination of Belarus to Moscow," calling Belarus "a satellite state of Russia." The resolution also denounced the "illegal transfer of more than 2,150 children, including orphans" from Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine to Belarus and called on the International Criminal Court (ICC) to consider issuing a warrant for Lukashenka's arrest. The ICC in March issued arrest warrants for Putin and Russia's commissioner for children's rights, Maria Lvova-Belova, accusing them of being responsible for the illegal deportation of children from Ukraine, which constitutes a war crime. The resolution also condemned the deployment of Russian tactical nuclear weapons on Belarusian territory, calling it a "blatant violation of Belarus's nuclear-free status." Belarus has welcomed closer relations with Moscow since a wave of crushing sanctions were imposed on it by the West after a deadly government crackdown on massive protests following a disputed 2020 presidential election that handed Lukashenka a sixth term. More sanctions have followed over Minsk's role in the Ukraine war. Lukashenka showed his loyalty in late June when he took part in talks to end a mutiny by the private Wagner Group, claiming he helped halt the revolt by agreeing with mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin and Putin to host Wagner troops in Belarus. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-belarus-putin-lukashenka- talks/32594336.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kremlin Says 'No Agreements' Signed As Russia, North Korea Warned Off Arms Deals By RFE/RL September 15, 2023 The Kremlin on September 15 said that "no agreements" were signed during North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's ongoing visit to Russia. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was talking to reporters amid concern in Washington that the two countries could be preparing an arms deal. Kim began his visit to Russia on September 12. Russian President Vladimir Putin talked up the prospect of greater cooperation with North Korea and said there were "possibilities" for military ties despite international sanctions on Pyongyang. The Kremlin on September 14 said Putin had accepted an invitation from Kim to visit North Korea, without giving a date for the trip. Earlier on September 15, Kim stopped in Russia's Far East to see a factory that builds the country's most advanced fighter jets on his extended trip that hints at his interest in sophisticated weaponry. Kim is to travel next to Vladivostok to view Russia's Pacific Fleet, a university, and other facilities, Putin told Russian media after his summit with Kim at Vostochny Cosmodrome on September 12. With reporting by AP and AFP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-north- korea-weapons/32593886.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks at the opening ceremony of an exhibition of archival photographs dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the military coup in the Republic of Chile, Moscow, September 15, 2023 15 September 2023 16:18 1778-15-09-2023 Your Excellency, Ladies and gentlemen, Friends, We have come here today to refresh our memories about one of the most tragic events in the history of the 20th century. Fifty years ago, the events in Chile caused repercussions in the international community. People all over the world watched the footage of the military coup in Chile. People of my generation remember the photographs of President Salvador Allender in front of the La Moneda presidential palace holding a gun which he took up to protect his country, his people and those who supported him. Blood was shed. The documents from that era that you will see at the exhibition have been provided by the Foreign Policy Archive of the Russian Federation, the archives of the Moscow Government, the Ilya Glazunov Gallery and the Foreign Ministry's Latin America Department. We remember a great deal about those events. Many books have been written and films made about them. People of our country, the Soviet Union, felt sincere sympathy for the Chilean people and their democracy. Salvador Allender was fixated on the idea of justice, which he wanted to realise through democracy, a new organisation of society and national peace that did not include a civil war. This did not sit well with those who wanted and still want Latin America to remain their backyard. The supporters of the Monroe Doctrine used a classic scenario, a "colour revolution," relying on and financing radicals, supplying them with weapons and inciting them to start a mutiny. Regrettably, we know what happened next, and we are not alone. In 1975, these and many other facts were made public in a congressional report on the activities of the Central Intelligence Agency. Pablo Neruda, the great Chilean poet and a Nobel Prize winner, described the Chilean venture as "a quiet Vietnam war." The United States, which suffered a shameful defeat in Vietnam, decided to take revenge on and implement their evil plans in anther independent country. Chileans remember this. I know that the victims of the dictatorship will never be forgotten, including in Russia. At that time, the presidential palace and the stadium in the capital, which was turned into a prison camp, became the symbols of public protest. People remember those events and bring flowers there, which is extremely important for the nation to preserve its identity and to uphold its rights and independence. I will not talk here about the other tragedies that the United States and its allies organised under similar scenarios around the world, including closer to us, namely in Yugoslavia, Afghanistan, Libya and Iraq. I hope that today's event will encourage us to more resolutely use all the diplomatic methods available to us to promote peace and agreements based on equal security and respect for the legitimate interests of all countries, which will protect the world from repeating tragedies such as the military coup in Chile. I would like to point out that conflicts can only be avoided in the modern world on the basis of equality, mutual respect and a balance of interests. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Minister of Defence General of the Army Sergei Shoigu holds a working meeting with Russian Navy's top brass 15.09.2023 The head of the Defence Ministry is on a working visit to the Primorsky Krai. He has checked the fulfilment of the state defence order at the Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex in Bolshoi Kamen and at the Progress helicopter plant in Arsenyev. After that, the Minister went to the Pacific Fleet's headquarters to hold a meeting on the results of work at the enterprises of the defence industry complex in the Russian Far Eastern region. 'Two ships have already been commissioned by the Navy this year, and another 12 vessels will be by the end of the year. Among them are the frigate Admiral Golovko, strategic missile submarine Imperator Aleksandr III, nuclear-powered cruise missile submarine Krasnoyarsk,' the minister said at a meeting at the Pacific Fleet's headquarters to outline the results of work at the enterprises of the defence industry complex in the Far East. The head of the Defence Ministry remarked that more than 50 ships had been commissioned by the Russian Navy over the past ten years. At the meeting, the minister said, 'The Navy's advancement enables us to safeguard the geopolitical interests of the Russian Federation and effectively respond to new challenges and threats'. The Russian Navy's combat readiness is being modernised and enhanced by the Defence Ministry as part of its implementation, according to Sergei Shoigu. 'The programmes for robotic systems, unmanned underwater vehicles, and multipurpose nuclear submarines are all actively being worked on now,' Sergei Shoigu stated. Department for Media Affairs and Information NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu inspects implementation of state defence order at Progress helicopter plant in Arsenyev, Primorsky Krai, which produces Ka-52 helicopters 15.09.2023 'The modernised Ka-52M helicopter received new radar and sighting systems, as well as armament with significantly increased characteristics. In the final assembly shop we are working not only on the production of new machines, but also on the modification of helicopters that perform tasks in the special military operation zone. The work is carried out within the framework of the life cycle contract,' told Director of the enterprise Sergei Shamshura to the Minister. The Defence Minister was also introduced to the training complex, with the help of which pilots are trained in the nuances of piloting and use of radio electronics of Ka-52M. The combat capabilities of Ka-52M helicopters need to be improved and the pilots' protection needs to be increased, the Defence Minister pointed out to the plant's management during the meeting. 'In 2023 for Progress Aircraft Plant in Arsenyev the volume of the state defence order implementation has doubled in comparison with the previous year. The priority, of course, is now given to the production of machines for the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. The tasks are fulfilled ahead of a schedule, we are ahead of it,' reported the Director of Progress helicopter plant to the Minister. The head of the enterprise noted that in 2023 a reserve will be made for 2024 in order to guarantee fulfilment of the defence order. On Friday, the head of the Defence Ministry is conducting a working trip to Primorsky region. In the morning he visited Far Eastern Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex, where he checked the implementation of the state defence order, after which he went to the plant "Progress". There, the head of the Defence Ministry was shown the working process in the machining, aggregate and final assembly shops. Department for Media Affairs and Information NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Sergei Shoigu inspects fulfilment of state defence order at Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex in Primorsky region 15.09.2023 Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu has inspected the construction of a floating dock and the progress of repair and modernisation of nuclear submarines under the state defence order at the Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex in Bolshoi Kamen. On Friday, the head of the Russian Defence Ministry is conducting a working trip to Primorsky region. In the morning, Sergei Shoigu visited the Far Eastern Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex, where he checked the implementation of the state defence order. The Russian Minister of Defence heard a report by the director of Zvezda shipyard on the repair and modernisation of nuclear submarines, as well as on the construction of a floating dock complex. The head of the Defence Ministry paid special attention to the compliance with the schedule of fulfilment of the defence order. Sergei Shoigu demanded to make maximum use of Zvezda's production capacities in order to complete the repair and modernisation of submarines. Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex is the leading submarine repair facility of the Pacific Fleet and the only one in the Far East specialising in the repair, refitting and modernisation of nuclear-powered submarine missile carriers. Department for Media Affairs and Information NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Shoigu Inspects Modernization of Nuclear Subs in Russia's Far East Sputnik News 20230915 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has inspected the fulfillment of the defense contracts at the Zvezda plant in the Primorsky territory in Russia's Far East, the Russian Defense Ministry said Friday. "Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu inspected the construction of a floating docking complex and the progress of repair and modernization of nuclear submarines within the state contract at the Zvezda defense plant," the ministry said. The ministry specified that the minister inspected the facility on Friday during a working visit to the Primorsky territory. Shoigu "draw special attention of the enterprise's management to compliance with the schedule of defense contract fulfillment" and ordered that the Zvezda plant "make maximum use of production capacities to complete the repair and modernization of submarines," the statement said. The Zvezda plant is Russia's leading submarine repair facility of the Pacific Fleet and the only one in the country's Far East specializing in the repair and modernization of nuclear-powered submarines. In addition, Sergei Shoigu visited the construction facility of Ka-52 helicopters aka "Alligators" and inspected the fulfillment of the defense contracts. Russian Navy to Receive New Vessels The Russian Navy will receive 12 vessels by the end of 2023, including surface and underwater ships, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Friday. "This year, two ships have already been commissioned, and 12 more will arrive by the end of the year. Among them are the Admiral Golovko frigate, the Emperor Alexander III strategic missile submarine, and the Krasnoyarsk nuclear submarine cruiser," Shoigu said at a meeting at the headquarters of the Pacific Fleet of Russia. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia's Navy Has A Dry Dock Problem. Again. By Mike Eckel September 16, 2023 Five years ago, a massive floating dry dock near the Russian Arctic port of Murmansk accidentally sank and nearly took the flagship of the Russian Navy, the aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov, with it. It was a major headache for Russia's Navy: The dry dock, called the FD-50, was one of the only ones capable of servicing massive ships like the Kuznetsov or the battlecruiser Pyotr Veliky. The next closest was nearly 10,000 kilometers east in the Pacific region of Primorye. Despite plans to raise it, the dock remains at the bottom of the Barents Sea harbor. Now Russia has another dry dock problem in the home port of the Black Sea fleet: Sevastopol, the naval port on the occupied-Crimean Peninsula. Two adjacent docks at the Sevmorzavod repair facility were hit, reportedly with British-supplied cruise missiles, on September 13, damaging at least two ships under repairs, including a submarine. It's unclear whether the attack -- the largest on the Russian fleet base since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022 -- damaged only the two ships or the dry docks themselves. Either way, experts say, Black Sea naval capabilities are likely seriously curtailed for the foreseeable future. There are no comparable facilities capable of conducting major repair works on Russian naval ships anywhere else in the Black Sea. "While the specific strike will have an impact on [Black Sea Fleet] operations, the larger impact is cumulative," said Dmitry Gorenburg, a research scientist who focuses on the Russian military at the Center for Naval Analyses, a think-tank near Washington, D.C. "Overall, I see Russia's control over the Black Sea slipping gradually." Thord Are Iversen, a Norwegian defense analyst and former Royal Norwegian Navy officer, said the docks themselves seem to have to only sustained superficial damage. "Dry docks are hard targets, difficult to inflict heavy damage to. The main challenge will likely be to clear the wreckage," he said. 'Now A Barn Rather Than A Factory' Since seizing and occupying Crimea in 2014, Russia has expanded its military footprint on the peninsula, building up garrisons and air defenses. It's invested heavily in infrastructure in Sevastopol, a historic naval port that previously housed both the Russian and Ukrainian Black Sea navies. With its annexation, Russia seized the few remaining ships belonging to the Ukrainian Navy that were housed at Sevastopol. Other Ukrainian ships were either scuttled, sunk, or seized elsewhere around the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov. With its dominance of the Black Sea, Russia used its navy to transfer personnel and equipment to Crimea and elsewhere. More significantly, it used ships to bombard Ukrainian cities and military forces with cruise missiles. On April 14, 2022, the flagship of Russia's Black Sea fleet, the guided missile cruiser Moskva, was hit and sunk west of Crimea, south of the port of Odesa. Ukrainian officials later said modified Neptune anti-ship missiles had been used in the attack, a major embarrassment for the Russian Navy. Estimates of the death toll among sailors ranged from a couple dozen to hundreds; a week after the incident, Russia's Defense Ministry said one sailor had died and 27 were missing, figures that many experts concluded were implausible. Russian surface ships and submarines have continued to play a role in the ongoing war, mainly firing missiles at land targets but also shadowing Ukrainian cargo ships used to ship grain to world markets. At the same time, with the help of billions of dollars in Western weaponry and equipment, Ukraine's armed forces have gradually built up their arsenals including artillery and rocket systems, kamikaze drones that function like mini-missiles, and longer-range missiles. That includes air-launched cruise missiles from Britain -- called Storm Shadows -- and a French variant called SCALP. In the early morning of September 13, Ukraine targeted the Sevastopol port facilities, including the Sevmorzavod repair facility, with a barrage of 10 cruise missiles. At least 24 people were wounded in the Sevastopol attack, according to local Russian administrators. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed its air-defense systems downed seven missiles. It also said three unmanned maritime drones had attacked the patrol ship Vasily Bykov off of Crimea but the ship had destroyed the drones. Andriy Yusov, a spokesman for Ukraine's military intelligence agency, said two ships on two adjacent dry docks at Sevmorzavod -- a landing ship called the Minsk and a Kilo-class diesel submarine called the Rostov-on-Don -- had been destroyed. The claims could not be independently verified. However, satellite imagery released over the following days showed the two damaged ships. Naval experts said the Minsk appeared to have been heavily damaged, possibly rendered inoperable. The Rostov-On-Don, one of four cruise-missile capable submarines in the Black Sea fleet, also sustained major damage. The Russian Defense Ministry, meanwhile, said the ships will be fully restored and "will continue to serve in combat as part of their fleets." Experts said the evidence was less clear about whether the dry docks were damaged. But it will take considerable time to remove the damaged ships -- possibly months. The bigger question now is whether other Russian ships, specifically submarines, can be serviced and repaired. The Russians "have nowhere to repair damaged ships," Natalya Humenyuk, a spokesman for Ukraine's southern military command, said in post on Telegram, because the repair facility now resembles "a barn rather than a factory." "Long term, depending on how long it takes to get the docks attacked back in operation, the impact on maintenance could prove significant," Iversen told RFE/RL. "Delays in maintenance could consign ship and subs to port, making them unavailable for operations and vulnerable to Ukrainian attacks." There are a limited number of other floating docks in Crimea, as well as in other Crimean ports like Kerch and Feodosiya. But experts said those all lack the specialized infrastructure needed to do complicated repairs, on submarines or many naval ships. In Novorossiysk, for example, a major oil and gas port located about 500 kilometers east of Sevastopol, there are no facilities for servicing specific naval ships like submarines. "Future Ukrainian strikes could add to the maintenance problems. If they inflict damage to key facilities in Sevastopol it could turn critical, and the Russians have no easy ways out of this situation," Iversen said. "Retrofitting another yard to take over from Sevastopol will take time -- time a Black Sea fleet at war does not have." Ukraine's military intelligence agency on September 11 announced that its forces had recaptured several offshore oil and gas drilling platforms known informally as Boyko Towers. Russian forces have used the strategically located platforms as forward bases and helicopter pads; Russia was also believed to have installed radar installations and missile systems on the platforms. The willingness of Ukraine to use air-launched cruise missiles to target Russian facilities and air defenses in Crimea, plus seizing the oil-and-gas platforms, highlights "a steady deterioration" of the Russian Black fleet's ability to protect itself, Gorenburg said. "Russian ships are increasingly vulnerable in port in Sevastopol," he told RFE/RL. "Repairs are difficult when your dry docks can be attacked." Either way, Ukraine expects to be able to conduct more attacks on Russian ships, Digital Transformation Minister Mykhaylo Fedorov said on September 15. "There will be more drones, more attacks, and fewer Russian ships. That's for sure," he told Reuters. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-navy-dry-dock- problem-ukraine-/32595547.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'Krasukha': Russia's New Unrivalled Electronic Warfare System Sputnik News 20230916 Oleg Burnov The special military operation zone recently witnessed the power of the Krasukha-S4 self-propelled electronic warfare (EW) system, as showcased in footage released by the Russian MoD. How does this system work and how effective is it? Sputnik explains. What's Krasukha Needed For? The Krasukha-S4 is created to render spy satellites, ground-based radars, and airborne systems completely ineffective. It achieves this by generating jamming signals that target core radar frequencies and other radio-emitting sources. The main purpose of the Krasukha system is to protect command posts, troops and air defenses from aerial reconnaissance and high-precision weapons. The EW system closely interacts with air defense systems, which destroy an enemy object after receiving its location from Krasukha-S4. In addition, the system successfully engages unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) flying at extremely low altitudes. Krasukha's software and hardware systems have the ability to disrupt a drone's on-board equipment, effectively rendering the UAV blind and helpless. This forces the aircraft to climb to higher altitudes, placing it within the reach of the Russian air defenses, which then annihilate the target. Unique Characteristics According to Russian expert Roman Nasonov, Krasukha-S4 is the most effective system in its class. It is capable of creating radio jamming in a wide range of frequencies, without restrictions in azimuth and elevation. The system can effectively engage any air target. The range of a Krasukha-S4 complex, consisting of two vehicles, is more than 300 kilometers (186 miles). Krasukha-S4's wheelbase is a four-axle Kamaz all-terrain vehicle, so the mobile complex can operate in any area, at temperatures ranging from minus 50C to plus 50C degrees. Start of Mass Production Krasukha-S4, developed by the Radioelectronic Technologies Concern KRET, a holding company under the Russian state-owned Rostec Corporation, was created in 2009 and went into mass production for its electronic warfare system in 2011. After a span of two years, the Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD) acquired the inaugural batch of Krasukha-S4 systems. This technology, as highlighted by KRET, possesses the capability to be utilized for airborne warning and control systems (AWACS) as well. Use in Special Op Zone The MoD recently unveiled a video showcasing the Krasukha-S4, jamming a reconnaissance drone belonging to the Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF). This incident took place within the Russian territory of the special military operation zone in Ukraine. The ministry also quoted a crew member of the Krasukha-S4 vehicle who stated that "throughout the special operation, the ES system proves its effectiveness." He added that they implement their "combat mission quite successfully." In addition to UAF drones, the Krasukha-S4 effectively countered enemy ballistic missiles and aircraft, the crew member pointed out. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Moscow Sees US Court's Verdict on Businessman Klyushin as Politically Motivated Sputnik News 20230916 Moscow considers Vladislav Klyushin's sentence a politically motivated move based on groundless allegations, representatives of the Russian Foreign Ministry told Sputnik. Earlier on Thursday, a US court sentenced Russian businessman Vladislav Klyushin to nine years in prison on charges of security fraud and wire fraud. "We regard the recent decision of the district court in Boston to sentence Russian citizen Vladislav Klyushin ....to 9 years in prison and multimillion-dollar compensation as politically motivated," the Foreign Ministry stated. They believe that "the charges brought against him are completely far-fetched and fabricated." The Foreign Ministry added that "during the process, the evidence base was reduced exclusively to unfounded allegations." "Our compatriot, extradited to the United States from supposedly "neutral" Switzerland, was in fact convicted only for being a Russian citizen. He became another victim of the fanatical Russophobia that now reigns in the power structures overseas," the representative added. "The verdict against Klyushin, the father of five children, who refused to cooperate with the investigation and was sentenced to a long prison term, is yet another example of the bias and punitive orientation of the American justice system, which unquestioningly carries out overt political orders," the Foreign Ministry said. "We will continue to demand from the US authorities an end to the legal arbitrariness against Russian citizens," they added. "Our embassy in Washington will provide Klyushin with the necessary assistance in the fight for his rights and legitimate interests," the Russian Foreign Ministry concluded. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Video Appears To Show Smiling Chechen Strongman Kadyrov Amid Rumors Of Failing Health By RFE/RL September 17, 2023 Ramzan Kadyrov's Telegram channel on September 17 released a video showing the Chechen strongman smiling and talking to the camera in an apparent attempt to counter speculation about his health following rumors on social media that suggested he was in a coma and near death. The frenzy was sparked by a report from the Ukrainian news outlet Obozrevatel on September 15 that quoted the spokesman from Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) as confirming reports that Kadyrov was in "serious condition -- his existing diseases have worsened and caused such a serious condition." There was no evidence to back up the spokesman's comments, which came after months of unverified rumors that Kadyrov's health -- he is believed to have serious kidney problems -- has been failing, and a day later, Kadyrov's social media channel put out a seven-second video clip it claims is new, showing him smiling and walking outside. The date of when the video, in which the 46-year-old autocrat speaks in a halting manner, was filmed, however, has not been verified. A second unverified video placed alongside the one Kadyrov shows the same path as the first video, but does not show him. A man's voice can be heard speaking Chechen and Russian and urging listeners to "practice sports" in the 13-second clip, though it is not clear whether the voice is Kadyrov's. "I highly advise everyone who on the Internet cannot distinguish truth from lies, take a walk in the fresh air, and put thoughts in order. Rain is very invigorating," the Kremlin-backed ruler of the North Caucasus region said in the first video that showed him walking in the rain in an unidentified site. Kadyrov, who has ruled Chechnya since 2007 with a cult of personality around him, is frequently accused by Russian and international human rights groups of overseeing grave human rights abuses including abductions, torture, extrajudicial killings, and targeting the LGBT community. He has been one of the strongest allies of Russian President Vladimir Putin and brought many of his Chechen fighters to battle alongside Kremlin forces in the invasion of Ukraine. Some Chechen rebels are also fighting against Russian troops alongside Ukrainian forces. Rumors seems to constantly swirl around Kadyrov, whether they be over his health, whereabouts, or political standing. A year ago, Kadyrov wrote on Telegram that after 15 years as a regional leader in Russia, "my time has come," leading to speculation that he would step down from his position. But two days later, he wrote that the statement on his possible resignation was made "to check your opinion." With reporting by RFE/RL's Krym.Realii and AFP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/video-chechen-strongman- kadyrov-rumors-health/32596583.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia Weighs Prospects of Chinese Warships Patrolling Northern Sea Route Sputnik News 20230917 Ilya Tsukanov The Northern Sea Route is an ambitious maritime artery running through Russia's Exclusive Economic Zone in the Far North, stretching from the Barents and White Seas in the west to the Sea of Okhotsk and Bering Sea in the east. In time, Moscow expects the shipping lane to account for up to 270 million tons of commercial cargoes every year. Russia can credibly assure the security of the Northern Sea Route independently, without the need for any assistance from its partners, Russia's top Arctic affairs diplomat has revealed. "We proceed from the fact that Russia is capable of independently and reliably assuring the security of the Northern Sea Route and its infrastructure for the long term," Ambassador at Large Nikolai Korchunov told Sputnik after being asked to comment on the possibility of Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy warships engaging in patrols along the Northern Sea Route. On the economic cooperation front, Korchunov revealed that Russia and China are getting ready to sign an exciting new collaboration pact related to the Snezhinka (lit. 'Snowflake') Arctic hydrogen energy project in the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, which envisions the construction of a fully-autonomous power plant on the basis of clean, renewable energy sources. "This topic was discussed in detail during the latest round of Russian-Chinese consultations on the Arctic on September 7 in Moscow. China's Ministry of Science and Technology identified Harbin Engineering University as a partner for the Russian coordinator on the creation of the Snezhinka station," the diplomat said. "A corresponding draft cooperation agreement has been agreed with the Chinese side; the timing and place of its signing are being worked out. All interested scientific and educational organizations, as well as Chinese companies, can join," he added. Korchunov also stressed that Russia will respond to any efforts by NATO to reinforce its military capability in the Arctic, including in relation to Finland's accession to the alliance and Sweden's ambitions to do so. "The strategy of reinforcing NATO's military capability in this direction...highlights the prevalence of use-of-force scenarios to ensure the alliance's own security in northern latitudes to the detriment of the security of other countries," he said. Moscow will respond to these challenges and threats with "a set of necessary measures, including preventative ones," Korchunov said, citing Russia's recently updated foreign policy concept, as well as the Russian Arctic Zone Development Strategy. Senior Western leaders and policymakers have expressed growing concerns over the prospect of Russia and China joining forces to create a new Arctic Council-style cooperation pact amid efforts by Western countries to freeze Moscow out of the existing eight-member international intergovernmental forum. Russia has voiced concerns about Western powers' push to "consolidate under the flag of the NATO bloc" in the Arctic, at the expense of institutional contacts through forums such as the Arctic Council and the Barents Euro-Arctic Council. In March, Moscow listed efforts to "preserve peace and stability, enhance environmental sustainability [and] reduce threats to national security in the Arctic" among the top priorities in its updated foreign policy concept. Northern Sea Route's Prospects Amid thawing Arctic temperatures, Russia has sought to turn the Northern Sea Route running from the Barents Sea to the Bering Sea into a major new global trade artery. The 5,550+ km long route is by far the shortest sea artery between Europe and Asia, capable of shaving up to 9,000 km and between 40-60 percent off the time necessary to transfer goods between east and west. Moscow expects the total tonnage of cargoes shipped through the NSR to grow to some 80 million tons by 2024, and increase to up to 270 million tons per year by the year 2035. Washington and its allies have expressed opposition to the NSR, with officials proposing attempting to turn its waters into an international shipping lane outside Russia's control, including by staging so-called 'freedom of navigation' patrols by US warships. Moscow has taken a series of steps to protect its northern waters and EEZ, building a fleet of Arctic-class icebreakers, creating from scratch or repairing over two dozen regional deep-water ports and airfields, creating a new Northern Artic military command, and establishing regional air defense and search and rescue infrastructure. In 2022, Russia also unveiled an updated naval doctrine in which the NSR was named as one of six strategic priority areas for improving Russia's status as a "great naval power." A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia, China to Sign Cooperation Agreement on Arctic Station Project Sputnik News 20230917 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russia and China are preparing to sign a cooperation agreement on the Snowflake International Arctic Station, the ambassador-at-large of the Russian Foreign Ministry, Nikolai Korchunov, told Sputnik. "A draft of the cooperation agreement has been agreed upon with China, the dates and place of its signing are being worked out. All scientific and educational organizations interested, as well as Chinese companies can join this project," Korchunov said. The Chinese ministry of science and technology has chosen the Harbin Engineering University as a partner for the Russian coordinator on the project, the diplomat said. Russia is open to the development of mutually beneficial scientific cooperation in the Arctic region and is ready to consider possible proposals of other countries concerning cooperation on the Snowflake project, he added. The Snowflake (Snezhinka) International Arctic Station is designed as a year-round research facility that runs on renewable energy and hydrogen fuel. The station is meant to act as a platform for scientists and other researchers to work on problems related to the Arctic region. The station will consist of several dome-type buildings connected by passages. The location of the buildings from above resembles a snowflake, which is why the station project received this name. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US arms maker cancels deal with Saudi firm over alleged ties to Russia, China: Report Iran Press TV Friday, 15 September 2023 7:55 AM Major US weapons maker Raytheon has reportedly terminated a multi-billion-dollar deal with a Saudi Arabian weapons firm over claims that the kingdom was engaged in dealings with sanctioned Russian and Chinese entities. The New York-based Wall Street Journal, citing unidentified sources, reported on Thursday that Raytheon Technologies Corporation (RTX) called off the agreement due to apprehensions that the Saudi firm, Scopa Defense, was pursuing financial translations with Chinese, Russian, and Belarusian entities subject to sanctions by the US administration. The American newspaper said the unease over engagement with entities from Moscow and Beijing also led to the advisory board of Scopa Defense, which was comprised of retired US military officers, to resign from the company. Established in 2021, Scopa Defense is one of the companies in Saudi Arabia that plans to transform the kingdom from importing arms to developing its domestic military sector. Last year, the RTX and Scopa Defense entered into a memorandum of understanding with the intention of establishing a factory for air defense systems in Saudi Arabia. Nasr Alghrairi, the former CEO of Scopa, said the deal, which included radars and several air defence systems, was expected to have been an investment of $25bn in Saudi Arabia and would have brought $17bn worth of sales. "The US government has expressed apprehension regarding the possibility of its weapon systems being compromised if the technologies integrated into Scopa Defense's weaponry were acquired by Chinese or Russian entities and subjected to reverse engineering," the US daily newspaper said. Citing company records, the WSJ reported that two companies linked to Scopa Defense, namely Tal Military Industries and Sepha Military Industries, conducted business with sanctioned entities from China, Russia, and Belarus. Scopa owner Mohamed Alajlan had reportedly hired an executive from a Russian company sanctioned by the US to run Sepha, and hired a Chinese national to run Tal, which had engaged in talks regarding deals with Chinese firms that are also sanctioned by Washington. The newspaper added that Sepha also held discussions with Russian and Belarusian firms that face Western sanctions. Tal and Sepha, the two Saudi firms, also shared computer servers with employees at Scopa, as Scopa was looking to gain access to sensitive data from RTX, according to the WSJ. One document showed that Sepha had looked at "marketing Russian ammunition, body armor and surveillance equipment in Saudi Arabia, assembling Russian attack helicopters there, and manufacturing armored vehicles with Russia's Military Industrial Co." Alajlan has refuted allegations of engaging with companies under international sanctions and having dealings with Russian firms, stressing that any transactions with Chinese companies are limited to securing raw materials to be used for producing ammunition and armored vehicles. "We don't work with any companies that have international sanctions," Alajlan said in an interview with the WSJ, adding that any suggestions that he was working with sanctioned firms "are all rumors, inaccurate and illogical and unrealistic." Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine last February, Western countries, led by the United States, have been levying sanctions against Russia, while pumping Kiev full of tens of billions of dollars worth of advanced weapons, steps that Moscow says would only complicate the standing situation and prolong the hostilities. China also has long been under sanctions by the United States over various issues, including accusations of cyber security attacks and intelligence espionage. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Saudi Arabia suspends normalization talks with Israel: Report Iran Press TV Sunday, 17 September 2023 2:48 PM Saudi Arabia has reportedly informed the United States of its decision to suspend all negotiations on normalizing ties with Israel due to the far-right Israeli cabinet's unwillingness to make any concessions to the Palestinians. The London-based Elaph online newspaper, citing an Israeli official, reported on Sunday that Washington has informed Tel Aviv of Riyadh's stance that the "extremist" nature of the occupying regime led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is "torpedoing any possibility of rapprochement with the Palestinians, and therefore with the Saudis." It went on to say that Israeli officials were "confused" by the decision, given that they believed the Saudis would move ahead with normalizing ties with Israel without relating it to the Palestinian issue. The report further noted that the Saudis were discouraged after Netanyahu accepted the demands of hawkish Israeli ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich to not make any concessions to Palestinians. Therefore, it added, without any rapprochement with the Palestinians, there could be no progress with the Saudis. US President Joe Biden declared on July 28 that a deal for Israel and Saudi Arabia to normalize relations may be on the horizon following National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan's talks with Saudi officials in Jeddah. In order to sign a deal with Israel, Riyadh publicly asked Tel Aviv to implement the 2002 so-called Arab Peace Initiative to establish a Palestinian state first. However, members of the far-right Israeli regime, led by Netanyahu, say they will not make any concession to the Palestinians as part of a potential deal for normalization of relations with Saudi Arabia. Last week, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said that Saudi Arabia has let the Biden administration know that resolving Palestinian issues is critical for any normalization deal with Israel. In addition, according to US officials, the Saudis are privately asking the US to guarantee the kingdom's security in the event of an attack and provide access to civilian nuclear technology, as well as more advanced US weapons systems. Washington's efforts for adding Saudi Arabia to the list of Arab countries that have signed the Abraham Accords come at a critical time when Biden is seeking re-election and the US government has been left embarrassed by the kingdom's bolstering of ties with Iran and Syria, and its further gravitation toward China. The UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco signed US-brokered normalization agreements with Israel in 2020, drawing condemnations from Palestinians who slammed the deals as "a stab in the back of the Palestinian cause and the Palestinian people." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Saudi Arabia Suspends Talks on Normalizing Relations With Israel - Reports Sputnik News 20230917 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Saudi Arabia has informed the United States of the termination of negotiations to normalize relations with Israel, media reported, citing a source in Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office. The source claimed that the Netanyahu government had rejected "conciliatory gestures" towards the Palestinians and acceptance of the demands of the right wing bloc undermined any possibility of rapprochement with the Palestinians and Saudi Arabia itself. The Israeli leadership is "at a loss" over Riyadh's decision to halt any negotiations with Washington on normalizing relations, the source added. On Friday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that normalization of relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia was possible but not a certainty. The US launched a process to normalize relations between Israel and the Arab states in 2020. As a result of these efforts, in September 2020, Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain signed a set of documents known as the Abraham Accords, and were joined by Morocco in December of that year. In January 2021, Sudan also signed the declaratory section of the Accords, but did not sign the corresponding document with Israel, unlike the other states, due to disagreements between the Sudanese military and civilian leadership over the issue. By 2020, Israel had diplomatic relations with only two Arab countries in the region, Jordan and Egypt. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. Senate committee approves bill on avoidance of double tax with Taiwan ROC Central News Agency 09/15/2023 04:44 PM Washington, Sept. 14 (CNA) The U.S. Senate Committee on Finance on Thursday unanimously adopted a bill aimed at alleviating the burden of double taxation on American and Taiwanese businesses and individuals operating in each other's country. The United States-Taiwan Expedited Double-Tax Relief Act was approved in a 27-0 vote at the end of a hearing led by Ron Wyden, the Democratic chairman of the committee. The bill is "hugely important" to the U.S.' workers and national security, Wyden remarked at the beginning of the hearing, noting that it had been built upon the Senate's "bipartisan" support for strengthening economic partnership with Taiwan. Wyden described Taiwan as "a global leader" in semiconductor manufacture that "plays a critical role" in helping secure strategic supply chains, expressing alarm at China's continued attempts to "intimidate and isolate Taiwan through diplomatic and economic coercion." He went on to say that providing double-tax relief to Taiwan similar to the treatment the U.S. has given to other countries through tax treaties was part of efforts by Congress to help "stabilize" the region in the face of potential disruptions in trade, investment, and finance by Beijing's "aggressive" activities. At the same time, Taiwanese businesses are "critical partner[s]" as the U.S. pours billions of dollars into semiconductor manufacturing and development, he said, adding that the country cannot allow tax barriers to "hamper any growth in our domestic semiconductor industry." Currently, Taiwanese corporations operating in the U.S. are subject to a 30 percent dividend withholding tax, according to Mike Crapo, ranking member of the Senate Finance Committee. "Taiwan is our largest trading partner with whom we do not have an income tax treaty," he said, adding that the bill would "encourage cross-border investment" and "strengthen [bilateral] economic partnership." The bill proposes changing the U.S. tax code so that it includes new double-tax relief rules for American and Taiwanese workers and businesses that are "analogous" to provisions typical in bilateral tax treaties. While the U.S. normally enters into a tax treaty with another country via Congressional authorization, "Taiwan's very unique status requires a very unique solution," Crapo said, in likely reference to the absence of diplomatic relations between Taipei and Washington. According to Crapo, changes made to the tax code would "deliver treaty-like benefits" to businesses and individuals from both sides on condition that Taiwan rolls out reciprocal tax measures. In particular, the bill involves the reduction of withholding taxes, the application of permanent establishment rules, the treatment of income from employment and the determination of qualified residents of Taiwan. "While a treaty with Taiwan is not possible given its status, we can and should insist that the U.S. and Taiwan conclude a binding tax agreement and that Congress approve it," commented Chairman of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee Robert Menendez, who also took part in the hearing. Thursday's vote came weeks after Menendez's committee approved the Taiwan Tax Agreement Act of 2023, which authorized Washington to negotiate with Taipei for the avoidance of double taxation. Taiwanese representative to the U.S. Hsiao Bi-khim () later thanked Senators across party lines for working together to address double taxation issues concerning both Taiwan and the U.S. Taiwan's de facto ambassador to Washington added she looked forward to seeing the legislative procedures completed soon to further boost cross-border investment between the two sides. (By Chiang Ching-yen and Teng Pei-ju) Enditem/ASG NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address KMT's Hou arrives in New York for 8-day U.S. 'journey of dialogue' ROC Central News Agency 09/15/2023 08:07 PM Washington, Sept.14 (CNA) Opposition Kuomintang (KMT) presidential nominee Hou Yu-ih () landed in New York Thursday (local time), for what his campaign office described as an eight-day "journey of dialogue and deepening friendship." Arriving at 8:35 p.m. Thursday at the John F. Kennedy International Airport, Hou was welcomed by around one hundred people, including James Lee (), head of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in New York, Alexander Huang (), KMT envoy to the U.S., and Taiwanese expatriates in the city. Meanwhile, American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Chairman Laura Rosenberger welcomed New Taipei Mayor Hou's arrival in a social media post, stating that she looked forward to meeting him in Washington D.C. Hou is scheduled to take part in two symposiums while in New York, one hosted by the National Committee on American Foreign Policy and the other by the Council on Foreign Relations, in addition to meeting with Joseph Kahn, executive editor of The New York Times, the paper's editors, and journalists from Bloomberg News, according to his campaign office. The mayor will also meet with Taiwanese expatriates in New York and during a brief stop in New Jersey, the office said. Hou will then visit Washington D.C. from Sept. 18-19 to meet with Rosenberger as well as scholars from the Brookings Institution and the Heritage Foundation and U.S. lawmakers, the office added, before heading to San Francisco. Meanwhile, Hou's campaign office denied claims reported in the Financial Times (FT) Friday that the KMT candidate planned to push U.S. President Joe Biden to clarify Washington's commitment to defending Taiwan. In a statement, campaign spokesman Huang Tzu-che () said Hou had responded "in jest" to reporter Kathrin Hille's questions during an "informal" conversation at a night market in Taipei. Huang added that contrary to the reported conversation - billed by the FT as KMT candidate's first interview with international media since receiving the opposition party's nomination - Hou had no plans to push for clarity from the Biden Administration on Taiwan. However, in a message on the LINE group chat run by Hou's office, Hille rebutted Huang's interpretation of events, describing the contents of spokesman's statement as differing from the actual circumstances of the interview and conversations she had with Hou. (By Hsu Wei-ting, Liu Kuan-ting and Evelyn Yang) Enditem/ASG NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China sanctions Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman over arms sales to Taiwan island Global Times By Xu Yelu Published: Sep 15, 2023 11:15 PM As Lockheed Martin of the US directly participated as the main contractor in US arms sales to the island of Taiwan on August 24, and Northrop Grumman has participated in US arms sales to the island on many occasions, the Chinese side decided to impose sanctions on the above two US military enterprises, the Chinese Foreign Ministry announced Friday. Recently, the US provided the island of Taiwan with advanced weapons in the form of arms sales, military aid, and loans. In response, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said that the US government, disregarding China's strong opposition, insisted on providing weapons to the island of Taiwan, which seriously violates the one-China principle and the provisions of the three China-US joint communiques, and seriously undermines international law and the basic norms of international relations. It severely damages China's sovereignty and security interests and further goes along the wrong and dangerous path of arming the island, Mao noted. The sanctions imposed by China on these two companies may not have a significant impact on them on the surface or directly. However, looking into the future and considering the affiliated enterprises of these companies, it will have a significant impact on their business in China, experts stressed. China encourages all American companies and Western companies to do business in China. However, if a company poses a threat to China's national security or creates trouble in this regard, China will not welcome such companies to make money from Chinese people while constraining China, Song Zhongping, a TV commentator and expert knowledgeable about the Taiwan question, told the Global Times on Friday. Mao emphasized that the Chinese government is firmly determined to defend its national sovereignty and territorial integrity. We urge the US side to earnestly abide by the one-China principle and the provisions of the three China-US joint communiques, stop selling weapons to Taiwan island, stop all forms of military collusion with the island, and stop arming the island. Otherwise, it will undoubtedly face resolute and powerful counterattacks from China, Mao said. Experts noted that the continuous escalation of US arms sales to Taiwan island, if normalized and becomes routine, can only bring war to the island and its residents. It aims to create trouble in the island and make it a significant obstacle to China's development, while also creating major problems in the Indo-Pacific region to hinder its potential as a driving force for global economic development, Song said. Therefore, the US' intention is to completely destroy the island of Taiwan and sacrifice the well-being of the Chinese people, pushing both sides toward the vortex of war, experts warned. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Mainland's Taiwan affairs official meets former KMT chairperson People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 17:01, September 15, 2023 HANGZHOU, Sept. 15 (Xinhua) -- Song Tao, head of both the Taiwan Work Office of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, on Friday met with Hung Hsiu-chu, former chairperson of the Chinese Kuomintang (KMT) party, in the city of Hangzhou. Hung is in the capital city of Zhejiang Province to attend the sixth cross-strait youth development forum. Song conveyed the greetings from Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, to Hung. He said that as a stage for young people from both sides of the Taiwan Strait, the cross-strait youth development forum has played a positive role in strengthening cross-strait communication among the youth and facilitating their joint efforts to advance national reunification and rejuvenation. He stressed the importance of adhering to the 1992 Consensus, opposing "Taiwan independence," and bringing cross-strait relations back to the right track of peaceful development. Noting that compatriots on both sides of the strait share the same blood, Hung said cross-strait exchanges and cooperation are unstoppable and cannot be cut by any force. She also expressed the hope that more young people on both sides of the strait will become engaged in cross-strait exchanges and join hands to achieve the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US aims to redirect military assistance from Egypt to Taiwan Iran Press TV Friday, 15 September 2023 6:42 PM The administration of US President Joe Biden has notified Congress that it aims to divert money it promised to Egypt to Taiwan instead, sources familiar with the matter told CNN. The administration notified Congress it would decrease $85 million in aid to Egypt that had been conditioned on Cairo's progress in its treatment of political prisoners, and instead divert that money to Taiwan, as well as Lebanon, the sources said on Thursday. The sources said 55 million dollars worth of the assistance will be reallocated to Taiwan and the rest of the $85 million will go to Lebanon, which Washington regularly supports with military equipment, including tens of Humvee military vehicles, despite the dire conditions in the country and the nation needing huge financial aid. However, the administration will still allow Cairo to access $235 million of the total of $320 million in foreign military financing it had promised to Egypt, according to a senior official at the US State Department. Secretary of State Antony Blinken had "determined that it is in the US national security interest to waive certain human rights related conditions" and allow the $235 million to go to Egypt. "What I'm describing today reflects our current assessment that Egypt's cooperation merits the national security waiver for fiscal year 2022," said the official, whose name was not mentioned in the reports. "Our position on the very serious human rights situation in Egypt absolutely has not changed and we're going to continue to raise those issues in Egypt consistently and at the most senior levels." The conditions around the $85 million - "that Egypt is making clear and consistent progress in relieving political prisoners, providing detainees with due process and preventing harassment of American citizens" - cannot be waived, the official said. "The Secretary is determined that Egypt has not fulfilled his conditions and therefore we are reprogramming that 85 million." The redirection of the funds was first reported by the Wall Street Journal. In total, the United States provides more than $1 billion in military assistance to Egypt, of which the vast majority is unconditional. Last month, a group of lawmakers urged Blinken to withhold all $320 million in conditional foreign military financing over concerns about Cairo's human rights abuses. "We acknowledge the historic, deeply rooted bilateral US - Egypt relationship, based in shared social, economic, and political ties," wrote the lawmakers, led by House Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member Rep. Gregory Meeks. "As we continue to stand for the prioritization of basic human rights in our foreign policy and call on the Administration to adhere to the spirit and letter of the law in ensuring progress in the US-Egypt relationship, we call on you to withhold the full $320 million of FY22 FMF until Egypt's human rights record significantly improves," it said. Freedom House rates Egypt with 18 points out of 100 points on a global freedom scale. Rights groups and the US State Department cite arbitrary killings, torture and detention and allege systematic repression of civil society, free press and free expression. Rights groups estimate the number of political prisoners in Egypt in the tens of thousands. Under US pressure, the government this year and last released many of the detainees ahead of Washington's decision on military assistance, and by last year started what it called a national dialogue. However, US officials said Thursday Egypt had slowed the pace of releases of political prisoners while stepping up the pace of detentions. Rights groups said the government ultimately detained far more people than it released. In related news, more than a dozen rights organizations signed a statement criticizing the Biden administration for its decision to approve the $235-million assistance to Egypt. The rights groups' statement, published on Thursday, said the approval "sends the wrong message at the wrong time." "At a time when the administration has sought to convince the world that the United States is committed to a rules-based order that separates its vision from those of rival powers, ignoring when partners violate the rules reflects a double standard and signals a lack of commitment to the rules the United States claims to defend and value." In the meantime, the Biden administration has been working to increase arms shipments to Chinese Taipei. It announced in July that a shipment of weapons for the island valued at up to $345 million had been earmarked for the wayward island's secessionist leaders. Till recently, the United States had sold $19 billion worth of weapons, munitions, and military equipment to Taipei, but most of that remains undelivered due to the two sides' failure to reach an agreement on the payment terms. "We have an obligation to make sure that we fill the backlog of foreign military sales that exist now between our countries," US Congressman Rob Wittman said earlier this month heading a Congressional delegation visiting Chinese Taipei. Taiwan is a self-ruled island and President Tsai Ing-wen has been pushing to make its military more mobile and harder to attack, seeking to turn the island into what US officials described as a "porcupine." China recognizes Taipei as a sovereign part of the country, emphasizing the internationally recognized "one China" principle. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Beijing slaps sanctions on 2 US defense weapons manufacturer over arms sales to Chinese Taipei Iran Press TV Friday, 15 September 2023 9:44 AM China has announced sanctions against two major US arms manufacturers, namely, Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, for supplying weapons to Chinese Taipei. "Despite China's firm opposition, the US government is determined to provide weapons to Taiwan... seriously harming China's sovereignty and security interests, and going further and further on the wrong and dangerous road of arming Taiwan," Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a regular press briefing Friday. The Chinese official said that Lockheed Martin was the prime contractor in US arms sales to Taiwan that took place on August 24 and that Northrop Grumman had taken part in sales of weapons to Taipei "many times". "According to the Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law of the PRC [People's Republic of China], China has decided to impose sanctions on the above two US military companies," Ning said. Till recently, the United States had sold $19 billion worth of weapons, munitions, and military equipment to Taipei, but most of that remains undelivered due to the two sides' failure to reach an agreement on the payment terms. "We have an obligation to make sure that we fill the backlog of foreign military sales that exist now between our countries," US Congressman Rob Wittman said earlier this month heading a congressional delegation visiting Chinese Taipei. During the visit, the US congressional delegation met with the wayward island's secessionist leaders. The move was seen by Beijing as Washington's latest provocation in a long list of US provocations, enraging China. Taiwan is a self-ruled island and President Tsai Ing-wen has been pushing to make its military more mobile and harder to attack, seeking to turn the island into what US officials described as a "porcupine". China recognizes Taipei as a sovereign part of the country, emphasizing the internationally recognized "one China" principle. In the meantime, US provocations have met with China's response in recent years, including Chinese fighter jets and navy ships holding military drills around the island, sometimes getting close and encircling it. China has repeatedly proposed peaceful means for Taipei's reunification, warning that Beijing was ready to use force to reunite the island with the mainland if necessary. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Deputy U.N. chief speaks out against Taiwan's exclusion ROC Central News Agency 09/16/2023 07:21 PM New York, Sept. 15 (CNA) The United Nations' work on sustainable development could be hampered if it continues to exclude Taiwan, U.N. Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed said Friday ahead of a week of high-level meetings during the 78th U.N. General Assembly. "I think exclusion of anyone holds back the goals," Mohammed said when asked by reporters whether Taiwan's exclusion from the U.N. hurts the world's pursuit of such goals. "We said leave no one behind, and I think member states have to find a way to make sure that we are not in that position where we're excluding people," she said. "Every person matters, whether it's Taiwan or otherwise, and I think it's really important for member states to find a solution to that," according to the international body's second-highest-ranking official. While world leaders will meet next week at the annual assembly, Taiwan is excluded under a U.N. resolution in 1971 that recognizes the People's Republic of China (PRC) as the "only lawful representative of China." Shortly after Mohammed's remarks, however, a U.N. spokesman reiterated stance when asked by reporters to clarify. "We don't intend to leave any of the people of China behind, and we support all of the people of China, but we stick by the one-China policy as has been decided by the General Assembly," said Deputy U.N. Spokesman Farhan Haq. Likewise, China's U.N. mission responded to the issue by referring to a statement by its envoy Zhang Jun () earlier this week. "The so-called Taiwan participation in the U.N. is a false narrative through and through," he said. "First, there is but one China in the world, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory," according to Zhang on Sept. 14. Later that day, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York issued a statement in objection. "The Republic of China (Taiwan) is an independent and sovereign democratic state," it said. "Only Taiwan's democratically elected government can represent its 23.5 million people in the U.N. system and the international community. The government of the PRC has no right to a say in the matter," according to the office. (By Ozzy Yin and Lee Hsin-Yin) Enditem/AW NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China to impose sanctions on two U.S. companies over Taiwan arms sales People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 09:20, September 16, 2023 BEIJING, Sept. 15 (Xinhua) -- China has decided to impose sanctions on two U.S. companies due to their involvement in arms sales to Taiwan, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning said on Friday. In disregard of China's firm opposition, the U.S. government deliberately supplies weapons to China's Taiwan region. This seriously violates the one-China principle and the stipulations of the three China-U.S. joint communiques, contravenes international law and basic norms governing international relations, and undermines China's sovereignty and security interests. The United States is going further down the wrong and dangerous path of arming Taiwan, Mao said at a daily press briefing. Mao said Lockheed Martin Corporation, St. Louis, MO directly participated in the U.S. arms sale to Taiwan announced on August 24 as the principal contractor. Northrop Grumman participated in several U.S. arms sales to Taiwan. "In accordance with the Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law of the People's Republic of China, China decides to impose sanctions on these two above-mentioned U.S. defense corporations," she said. The Chinese government never wavers in its resolve of safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity, Mao stressed. "We call on the United States to earnestly abide by the one-China principle and the stipulations of the three China-U.S. joint communiques, stop arms sales to Taiwan, stop military collusion with Taiwan, and stop arming Taiwan, otherwise it will be met with China's resolute response," she added. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hou says he will ask the U.S. to pay closer attention to Taiwan peace ROC Central News Agency 09/17/2023 01:08 PM New York, Sept. 16 (CNA) The presidential candidate for Taiwan's main opposition party Kuomintang (KMT) said on Saturday that the main purpose for his ongoing trip to the United States is to raise awareness about issues involving ensuring peace in the Taiwan Strait and to ask for Washington's assistance on economic and trade matters. Speaking with reporters in New York after arriving on Thursday for the eight-day trip, New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih () said the aim of his visit is to ask the U.S.' executive and legislative branches to pay closer attention to peace across the Taiwan Strait and to continue to help Taiwan in boosting its defense capabilities. Upon arriving in New York, the KMT presidential candidate visited the New York Times, where he met with the newspaper's editor in chief. Hou also gave an interview to Bloomberg. Asked by reporters what he discussed when meeting with the two U.S.-based international news media outlets, Hou said reporters in the U.S. focused more on cross-strait peace and security issue and what role a Taiwan future leader should play in maintaining cross-strait peace and security. Hou said he told both the New York Times and Bloomberg that peace will only be achieved via strength, and exchanges will enhance understanding. The two sides of the Taiwan Strait will significantly lower potential risk via dialogue, with the main goal to promote peace and security of Taiwan and the world, he added. Listen New Taipei Mayor Hou You-ih (center), Kuomintang's presidential candidate, takes an interview in New York Saturday. CNA photo Sept. 16, 2023 New York, Sept. 16 (CNA) The presidential candidate for Taiwan's main opposition party Kuomintang (KMT) said on Saturday that the main purpose for his ongoing trip to the United States is to raise awareness about issues involving ensuring peace in the Taiwan Strait and to ask for Washington's assistance on economic and trade matters. Speaking with reporters in New York after arriving on Thursday for the eight-day trip, New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih () said the aim of his visit is to ask the U.S.' executive and legislative branches to pay closer attention to peace across the Taiwan Strait and to continue to help Taiwan in boosting its defense capabilities. Upon arriving in New York, the KMT presidential candidate visited the New York Times, where he met with the newspaper's editor in chief. Hou also gave an interview to Bloomberg. Asked by reporters what he discussed when meeting with the two U.S.-based international news media outlets, Hou said reporters in the U.S. focused more on cross-strait peace and security issue and what role a Taiwan future leader should play in maintaining cross-strait peace and security. Hou said he told both the New York Times and Bloomberg that peace will only be achieved via strength, and exchanges will enhance understanding. The two sides of the Taiwan Strait will significantly lower potential risk via dialogue, with the main goal to promote peace and security of Taiwan and the world, he added. U.S.-based famed forensic scientist Henry Lee (right) shows his support for KMT presidential candidate Hou Yu-yi (center) at a banquet in New York Saturday. CNA photo Sept. 16, 2023 Another issue Hou said he will focus on is Taiwan's potential participation in the Washington-initiated Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) and the possibility of the two sides signing a free trade agreement, adding that Taiwan needs America's assistance on both of these matters. The economic initiative was launched by U.S. President Joe Biden on May 23, 2022, with the aim of enhancing the US' economic engagement in the Indo-Pacific region. It was launched with 14 participating founding member nations, not including Taiwan, with an invitation for other countries to join. Taiwan's government has said the decision to exclude Taiwan from the IPEF was regrettable, as the country is an important economy that plays a crucial role in the global supply chain and qualifies for inclusion. Hou also said his brief meeting with New York Mayor Eric Adams on Friday night was made possible under arrangement of a mutual friend. He said he and Adams are both retired police officers so during their brief meeting they greeted each other and wished each other good luck on their separate goals. The New Taipei mayor said the KMT and the U.S. have always maintained cordial relations and his ongoing visit to the U.S. is also to express gratitude toward American friends for paying attention to the Taiwan Strait issue and Taiwan's future development. After his trip to New York, Hou will visit Washington D.C. from Monday to Tuesday (Sept. 18-19) to meet with AIT Chair Laura Rosenberger, scholars from the Brookings Institution and the Heritage Foundation, as well as U.S. lawmakers. The trip to the U.S. has been described by Hou's campaign office as a "journey of dialogue and deepening friendship." It is also considered by some to be a test of his ability to handle diplomatic affairs if he were elected president in the January 2024 presidential election. It has been a longstanding practice for Taiwanese presidential candidates to visit the U.S. before elections. Taiwan People's Party (TPP) Chairman and presidential candidate Ko Wen-je () and sitting Vice President Lai Ching-te (), the ruling Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) nominee for the 2024 presidential election, both visited the U.S. earlier this year. Later Saturday, Hou participated in an annual meeting organized by an overseas Taiwanese group in New Jersey during which he called for unity among overseas KMT supporters to support his presidential bid so that his party could regain power after eight years of DPP rule. The 45th annual convention of Taiwanese Association of America featured more than 500 overseas Taiwanese, including U.S.-based famed forensic scientist Henry Lee (). (By Liu Kuan-ting and Joseph Yeh) Enditem/cs NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese aircraft carrier Pacific drills target U.S. more than Taiwan: expert ROC Central News Agency 09/17/2023 05:47 PM Taipei, Sept. 17 (CNA) The recently concluded drills in the Western Pacific, conducted by the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong, were more aim at showcasing China's military capabilities to the United Sates, which was also concluding a joint exercise in nearby seas, rather than Taiwan, a Taiwanese defense expert told CNA Sunday. Lin Yin-yu (), an assistant professor at Tamkang University's Graduate Institute of International Affairs and Strategic Studies, said the drills in the western Pacific involving the Shandong and dozens of warplanes held last week sought to test China's Anti-Access/Area Denial capabilities should the U.S. and its allies attempt to interfere in a cross-strait conflict. He noted that the latest Chinese drills coincided with a joint maritime exercise conducted by the U.S., South Korea and Canada on Thursday in the Yellow Sea. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) did not make more details of the Shandong drill public. According to Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND), the Chinese domestically-built aircraft carrier passed through the Bashi Channel 60 nautical miles southeast of Cape Elunabi, Taiwan's southernmost point, and headed east into the West Pacific for a long-range training session in the area on Monday, Sept. 11. Meanwhile, Japan's Minister of Defense said several rounds of drills involving warplanes and helicopters landing and taking off were held on the Shandong on Sept. 13 and Sept. 14, before the aircraft carrier concluded its drills on Sept. 14 and Sept. 15 and headed to the South China Sea. Asked if the two-day exercises in the West Pacific were cut short by the reported disappearance of Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu (), Lin told CNA he does not believe that to be the case. Lin said although Li is a general, he is not responsible for combat missions as the position of defense minister mainly involves defense diplomacy. The fact Li has not been seen in public for some time will not impact the PLA's long-term combat preparedness or strategy, though his disappearance could mean the PLA is undergoing a high-level official reshuffle that could negatively impact the morale of the Chinese military, Lin added. Li, who was appointed defense minister in March, has been absent from public view for more than two weeks, fueling rumors about his fate after a series of unexplained personnel shakeups roiled the upper ranks of China's ruling Communist Party this summer. U.S. media reports have quoted unnamed government sources as saying Li is under investigation for corruption and will likely be removed. The Shandong is China's second aircraft carrier, and the first to be entirely built by the domestic shipbuilding industry. It was commissioned into the PLA Navy on Dec. 17, 2019 in Sanya, Hainan Province. China launched its first aircraft carrier the Liaoning in 2012. The vessel was a refurbished Soviet Kuznetsov-class cruiser carrier purchased in an incomplete state. Meanwhile, China's third and most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, is expected to enter service after completing sea trials sometime next year. Beijing launched the Fujian, on June 17, 2022. It is built to launch fighter jets with an electromagnetic catapult, a system on a par with the USS Gerald Ford, the U.S. Navy's most advanced carrier in service. Taiwan's defense experts have previously warned that the Shandong's ability to conduct take-off and landing drills in the Pacific Ocean on the east side of the country indicates it is a serious threat to eastern Taiwan. The region, protected by the central mountain range on the west, has traditionally been used to preserve and maintain Taiwan's combat readiness in the event of a full-scale invasion by the PLA. Therefore, it is essential for Taiwan to enhance its air defense capabilities and introduce additional runways in the eastern counties of Hualien and Taitung, given that the PLA is now capable of launching attacks from waters east of Taiwan, retired Air Force Lieutenant General Chang Yen-ting () told CNA. (By Matt Yu and Joseph Yeh) Enditem/AW NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Top diplomat Wang Yi meets with US' Sullivan, emphasizing Taiwan question as 'the first red line' Global Times By Global Times Published: Sep 18, 2023 01:14 AM Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi on Sunday held several rounds of meetings in Malta with US national security adviser Jake Sullivan. According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, the two sides conducted frank, substantive and constructive strategic communications on stabilizing and improving China-US relations. Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized that the Taiwan question is the first red line that must not be crossed in China-US relations, and that the US must abide by the three joint communiquAs and its commitment not to support "Taiwan independence." China's development has a strong endogenous momentum, following the inevitable logic of history, Wang said. It cannot be stopped, nor can the Chinese people's right to development be deprived. The two sides agreed to continue to implement the important consensus reached at the Bali meeting, maintain high-level exchanges, and hold China-US consultations on Asia-Pacific affairs, maritime affairs and foreign policy. The two sides also discussed measures to further support and facilitate people-to-people exchanges. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Erdogan says Turkey could 'part ways' with EU if necessary Iran Press TV Saturday, 16 September 2023 1:43 PM Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says Ankara may "part ways" with the European Union, signaling the country's frustration with the bloc's assessment process to include Turkey as its member. Speaking to reporters ahead of his trip to the United States, Erdogan said, "The European Union is trying to distance itself from us." "We will carry out our own assessment of the situation and we also could take another direction." Endogen made the remarks in response to a question about a recent report adopted by the European Parliament, which stated that Turkey's "accession process cannot resume under the current circumstances, and calls on EU to explore 'a parallel and realistic framework' for EU-Turkiye relations." Earlier this week, Turkey's Foreign Ministry said that the report contained unfounded allegations and prejudices and took "a shallow and non-visionary" approach to the country's ties with the EU. The ministry also affirmed Turkey's resolve to join the EU and urged the bloc to take courageous steps to advance its bid. Turkey applied to join the bloc 24 years ago. Accession talks, which began in 2005, were put on hold indefinitely in 2016 over Turkey's crackdown on opponents following a failed coup attempt in the same year. Tensions have recently risen between Turkey and its Western allies over Sweden's bid for NATO membership. Stockholm needs Ankara's consent to join NATO, of which Turkey is an old member. Erdogan had previously conditioned his approval of Sweden's NATO bid on Stokholm's dropping of its support for Kurdish opposition groups that are considered terrorist outfits by Ankara. He even upped the ante by securing a pledge from the EU to resurrect the membership talks in exchange for lifting its blockade of Sweden's drive to join NATO. After months of objections, Erdogan agreed at a NATO summit in July to forward Sweden's NATO bid to the Turkish parliament for ratification. However, the timing of the Turkish parliament's green light for Sweden remains unclear. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address "TArkiye's diplomatic moves for peace and stability in its region are appreciated" Presidency of The Republic of Turkey 16.09.2023 Holding a press conference before departing for the U.S. to attend the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, President ErdoAYan said: "TArkiye's diplomatic moves for peace and stability in its region are appreciated. We want to make use of this positive atmosphere towards our country in a manner that would contribute to our goal of high-quality growth through investments, production, employment and current account surplus." President Recep Tayyip ErdoAYan held a press conference at AtatArk Airport in Istanbul before leaving for the U.S. to attend the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly. "WE WILL STRESS THE CRITICAL ROLE TARKAYE PLAYS IN THE FACE OF CURRENT GLOBAL CHALLENGES" Noting that he will address the General Assembly on September 19, the first day of the debates, President ErdoAYan said that he will tell in his speech TArkiye's steps regarding development, humanitarian aid, international peace and security, and global solidarity. Stressing that he will also share his opinions on other global issues, President ErdoAYan said: "We will stress the critical role TArkiye plays in the face of current global challenges. We are pleased to see that our statement, 'the World is bigger than five,' which we highlight at every platform, has gained larger acceptance. Lastly, UN Secretary-General AntAnio Guterres has displayed a very clear stance on this issue. We agree with Mr. Guterres' statement to the effect that structures created in the aftermath of the World War II do not reflect today's world. I will express this to him personally during our meeting. I will hold talks with a large number of counterparts besides the UN Secretary-General on the margins of the General Assembly." President ErdoAYan added that he will also come together with Turkish citizens and kinsmen living in the U.S., as well as with think-tank representatives during his visit. Pointing out that he will also discuss potential steps to be taken in order for leading U.S. businesspeople to boost their investments in TArkiye, President ErdoAYan said: "The diplomatic maturity displayed during the May 14-28 elections in our country has increased business communities' interest in TArkiye. International investors have great confidence in our cabinet and economic team as well as in the Medium Term Programme we have unveiled a short while ago. Our reserves have increased by 22 billion dollars over the past three months alone. Our Central Bank's gross reserves have surpassed 120 billion dollars as of today. The announcement made last week by the World Bank is another example of the confidence in our country. New ones will follow soon." "WE ARE DETERMINED TO TURN THE CURRENT PERIOD INTO AN OPPORTUNITY FOR OUR NATION" President ErdoAYan stated: "TArkiye's diplomatic moves for peace and stability in its region are appreciated. We want to make use of this positive atmosphere towards our country in a manner that would contribute to our goal of high-quality growth through investments, production, employment and current account surplus." "We make, and will continue to make, every effort both at home and abroad in order to realize our Century of TArkiye vision. We are determined to turn this period, in which the order of the global system is disrupted, into an opportunity for our country and nation," the President said. "WE WILL CLOSELY FOLLOW THE DEVELOPMENTS" President ErdoAYan answered reporters' questions following his speech. In response to a question about Karabakh, President ErdoAYan stated that TArkiye's proposal to address the issue in a four-way meeting of Russian, Azerbaijani, Turkish and Armenian leaders has yet to receive a response, adding that TArkiye will closely follow the developments. In answer to a question about Sweden's NATO membership process, President ErdoAYan underlined that Sweden needs to fulfill its responsibilities. Noting that it is not enough for Sweden to draft the law but that it must also be implemented, President ErdoAYan stated that if terrorists are able to hold demonstrations under police protection, then it means that Sweden doesn't fulfill its responsibilities and doesn't keep its promises. President ErdoAYan further stressed that it is up to the Turkish parliament to make a decision on the issue. In response to a question about the European Parliament's latest report on TArkiye, President ErdoAYan stated: "Dear friends, if you really want to learn my assessment, the EU is trying to break away from TArkiye. During this period, in which the EU makes moves to break away from TArkiye, we will make our evaluations in the face of these developments. After these evaluations, we can part ways with the EU if necessary." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese embassy condemns UK side's hyping up of so-called "Chinese spies" People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 10:09, September 16, 2023 LONDON, Sept. 15 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Embassy in the United Kingdom (UK) on Friday strongly condemned the hyping up of the so-called "Chinese spies" by the UK side. "The allegations of the so-called 'Chinese spies' hyped up by the UK side are a self-staged farce that is totally groundless. We have made a serious demarche to the UK side and we strongly condemn it," a spokesperson for the embassy said in response to a question concerning reports in British media following the UK Parliament's discussion of the so-called "Chinese spies." "It only shows that some British politicians have reached a point of hysteria and how egregious they have become when it comes to China. Their baseless slanders and accusations against China seem more of a cover-up of their own incompetence and failure in solving the UK's own political, economic and social problems and are aimed at deflecting the attention of the public," the spokesperson said. China-UK relations must be built on the principles of mutual respect, non-interference in each other's internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit, the spokesperson said. "I would like to make it clear to the UK side that China will never accept its unfounded attacks and slanders. If the UK still wants to cooperate with China, it must immediately stop this political farce, which is even detested by people here in the UK," the spokesperson added. The Sunday Times recently disclosed that the UK police arrested two men in March, including a Parliament researcher who was charged of spying for China. In a statement released by his lawyers, the man said he is "completely innocent" and felt "forced to respond" to the accusations. The report sparked discussions within the British Parliament about the so-called "Chinese spies." In response, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning rejected the allegation of spying, calling it "political manipulation" and "malicious slander" earlier this week. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UK to announce action to help achieve the UN's Sustainable Development Goals at the UN General Assembly The Deputy Prime Minister will head up the UK delegation for the United Nations General Assembly High-Level Week. 17 September 2023 Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden will head up UK delegation in New York for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) High-Level Week. He and other Ministers will set out how the UK is increasing efforts to achieve the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, a series of commitments to make the world a fairer, healthier and more prosperous place by 2030. Foreign Secretary James Cleverly is due to arrive in New York today (Sunday), and will meet counterparts from the US, France, Egypt, Barbados and Indonesia as well as attend G7 and migration meetings. The world must recommit to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) if we are to achieve them by 2030, Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden will tell the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York next week. As the halfway point between the launch of the SDGs in 2015 and the target for their delivery in 2030 approaches, he, the Foreign Secretary and the wider UK delegation will make clear countries urgently need to visibly and vocally recommit to the Goals to make the world healthier, fairer, and more prosperous. The Deputy Prime Minister will lead the UK delegation and travel to New York on Tuesday - he will attend the UN Security Council session on Thursday. He will attend the UN Security Council session on multilateralism and Ukraine on Wednesday to recommit our steadfast support to Ukraine and to hold Russia to account for its illegal actions, both in Ukraine and its cynical attempts to undermine global food supplies and security, causing worldwide suffering in the world's poorest nations. The Deputy Prime Minister will also deliver the UK's address to the General Assembly on Friday where he will call on nations to cooperate to ensure the benefits of revolutionary new technologies like AI are felt equally, while also preventing their misuse. He will also hold meetings on AI with leading technology companies and discuss AI regulation with other countries ahead of the UK's AI Safety Summit. He will also attend UN meetings on boosting global health and announce new UK support for strengthening health systems. He will also discuss climate action and growing global investment in Africa. The Foreign Secretary, arriving in New York tomorrow (Sunday), will meet key allies and stress the need to keep up the pressure on Russia, making it clear to Putin that he cannot "outlast" the international backing for Ukraine. He is due to hold talks tomorrow (Monday) and on Tuesday with, among others, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna, Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and Indonesia's Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi. Tomorrow (Monday) the Foreign Secretary will co-convene an event on Artificial Intelligence (AI) chaired by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. It will bring together governments, tech firms and NGOs to discuss how AI can accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. The Deputy Prime Minister will also be discussing the challenges and opportunities of AI with global partners and UK and US tech firms operating in the USA during his visit, ahead of the UK hosting the AI Safety Summit in November. Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden said: "I'm delighted to be leading the UK delegation to the UN General Assembly on behalf of the Prime Minister. "The UK has always worked closely with the UN to create a safer, healthier and more prosperous world. I look forward to using this year to discuss the challenges and opportunities of AI, so that the benefits of this revolutionary technology are felt fairly across the world, and how Britain can be at the forefront of that effort. "Alongside this we'll be announcing new support to tackle climate change, boost global economic growth and prevent future pandemics. "But the principles of the UN are being challenged by Russia's appalling actions in Ukraine: deliberately attacking and terrorising civilians and seeking to hold the world to ransom by blocking vital food supplies. "I will be challenging Russia at the Security Council and other nations to strengthen international support for Ukraine's freedom." Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said: "Only a functioning multilateral system can address the complex and interconnected global challenges we are facing. But our system is under strain, particularly from intensifying geopolitical rivalry. The Sustainable Development Goals are seriously off-track, and we need to come together to recommit and accelerate their delivery by 2030. "Russia is a permanent member of the UN Security Council, but its invasion of Ukraine is a clear breach of the UN Charter. Our citizens rightly demand that we curb illegal migration and boost economic growth. Climate change and new technologies like AI present extreme risks, but also unprecedented opportunities. "Putin is counting on the misguided assumption that he can outlast international support for Ukraine. We will not be deterred. It is in all our interests, to ensure that Russia is defeated and evicted from Ukraine's sovereign territory as quickly as possible." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Former Armed Forces personnel training foreign militaries could be prosecuted under National Security Act Under the National Security Act, former RAF, Royal Navy and Army pilots training foreign militaries may be prosecuted for sharing military tactics 17 September 2023 Former UK Armed Forces personnel who train foreign militaries around the world can be prosecuted under new offences within the National Security Act. It comes after the Ministry of Defence issued a security alert last year, revealing that a number of former Royal Air Force, Royal Navy and Army pilots had been training the Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force, having being contracted through a private South African company and attracted by high salaries. Specifically, the new Act includes the section 1 offence of 'obtaining or disclosing protected information' and defines 'information' to include tactics, techniques and procedures. This means that pilots risk being prosecuted for sharing such sensitive information with foreign powers. Once the powers come into force, the Ministry of Defence can pass relevant information to police forces, who can investigate offences under the Act. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said: Anyone found to be acting against the UK's interests by training our competitors' militaries can now expect to be pursued and brought to justice. The government has acted decisively following the identification of this threat, and has made rapid changes to legislation to help shut it down. Since the security alert, the Ministry of Defence believes that publicity the practice received has been successful in encouraging these pilots to reconsider their activity, and in discouraging other personnel from taking part. At the time of the alert, the MOD recognised that further measures were needed in order to disrupt the activity. One such critical measure was including this activity within the National Security Act, to allow criminal charges to be pressed. As well as legislating against the activity, the UK has also been working closely with our allies, some of whom are also seeing similar activity with their former military personnel, to help highlight and tackle this internationally. Security Minister Tom Tugendhat said: We face growing threats from foreign states. In recent years we've seen attempts to harm our people, damage our economy and undermine our democracy. We've also seen attempts from countries such as China to solicit national secrets from former Armed Forces personnel. This new Act provides our world class law enforcement and intelligence agencies with new and updated tools to tackle security challenges such as these - and hold those responsible to account. The National Security Act became law in July this year and has brought together new measures to modernise counter-espionage laws and address evolving threats to our national security. With this new legislation, the UK is now a harder target for those states who seek to conduct hostile acts against the UK, which include espionage, foreign interference (including in our political system), sabotage, and acts that endanger life, such as assassination. It provides law enforcement and intelligence agencies with new and updated tools to deter, detect and disrupt modern-day state threats. The recently published Defence Command Paper 2023 and the Integrated Review Refresh 2023 sets out the UK's approach to China as an enduring and epoch-defining challenge to British interests through its increasingly assertive and coercive behaviour. The documents say how the government will respond by increasing protections to national security, deepen cooperation with partners and increase engagement with China. Military personnel who have any concerns or are aware of suspicious activity are encouraged to call the MoD confidential crime line. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Following the expiry of the restrictive measures on Ukrainian exports of grain and other foodstuff to the EU, Ukraine agrees to introduce measures to avoid a renewed surge in EU imports European Commission Press release 15 September 2023 Brussels The European Commission has analysed the data related to the impact of the exports of 4 categories of agricultural products on the EU market. It has concluded that thanks to the work of the Coordination Platform and to the temporary measures introduced on 2 May 2023, the market distortions in the 5 Member States bordering Ukraine have disappeared. A constructive attitude of all participants in the platform helped to solve concrete problems and ensured that exports to third countries outside the EU are flowing and even increasing. As a result, it has been agreed that: Existing measures will expire today. Ukraine has agreed to introduce any legal measures (including, for example, an export licensing system) within 30 days to avoid grain surges. Until then, Ukraine is to put in place from 16.09.2023 effective measures to control the export of 4 groups of goods in order to prevent any market distortions in the neighbouring Member States. Ukraine will submit an Action Plan to the platform no later than close-of-business on Monday 18 September 2023. The European Commission and Ukraine will monitor the situation via the platform to be able to react to any unforeseen situations. The European Commission will refrain from imposing any restrictions as long as the effective measures by Ukraine are in place and fully working. Background: The European Union has been acting resolutely and effectively to support the export of Ukrainian grains and other foodstuffs, notably though the Solidarity Lanes. The success of this work led to temporary distortions in the markets of the five Member States that share a border with Ukraine, leading on 2 May 2023 to the imposition of temporary restrictive measures on a series of Ukrainian foodstuff exports. In parallel, a coordination Platform was set up, bringing together Ukraine, Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and the European Commission. It contributed to develop infrastructure and increasing logistical capacity, as well as removing administrative barriers to the export of agricultural products from Ukraine. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Update 183 - IAEA Director General Statement on Situation in Ukraine International Atomic Energy Agency 92/2023 Vienna, Austria 15 Sep 2023 Ukraine's Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) has been drilling more wells at the site as part of efforts to find new sources of cooling water after the destruction of the downstream Kakhovka dam more than three months ago, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said today. Since last week, the ZNPP has built another two groundwater wells to supply the sprinkler ponds that cool the six reactors and spent fuel, bringing the total of new wells to nine. Together they pump around 200 cubic metres of water per hour into the sprinkler ponds, representing almost all the cooling needs of the six shutdown reactors. The remainder of the water comes from the drainage system and clean water that is periodically discharged from the plant's chemical water treatment facility. The IAEA has been informed that the water supply situation will be assessed after a tenth well has been constructed to see if more will be needed. "Following the loss of the Kakhovka reservoir, actions have been taken to stabilise the site's water resources, which are currently sufficient for several months of its cooling requirements in the current conditions," Director General Grossi said. "However, the challenges the site has been facing in this regard are further adding to the generally precarious nuclear safety and security situation at Europe's largest nuclear power plant, especially as our experts are reporting about further indications of increased military activities in the region," he said. Underlining the potential dangers for nuclear safety and security during the conflict in Ukraine, the IAEA experts have continued to hear numerous explosions some distance away from the ZNPP, which is located by the frontline. They were also informed by the ZNPP about further drone attacks, on 11 September, in the nearby city of Enerhodar where many staff live with their families, causing minor damage to two buildings. The ZNPP informed the IAEA experts that there were no casualties reported at that time. "No action should be taken that could imperil nuclear safety and security at the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant in any way. We remain determined to do everything we can to help prevent a nuclear accident during this tragic war. The risks continue to be all too real," Director General Grossi said. At the ZNPP, the IAEA experts have continued to conduct walkdowns of specific areas at the site and meet with staff there. They have not observed the presence of any new mines or explosives but confirmed the continued presence of mines in the buffer zone between the site's internal and external perimeter barriers. The IAEA continues to request access to the rooftops of reactor units 1, 2, 5 and 6, and to all six turbine halls, one after the other. Over the past week, the experts visited the isolation gate at the large cooling pond and confirmed the integrity of the gate and observed the reinforcements that had been made on the side of the Kakhovka reservoir following the dam's collapse in early June. The IAEA team also went to the main control room of unit 4, the reactor hall of unit 3, the turbine hall of unit 2 and a liquid waste treatment facility. The six reactor units remain in shutdown, with units 1 to 5 in cold shutdown and unit 6 in hot shutdown to generate steam for various nuclear safety functions. For example, the steam from unit 6 is used in the liquid waste treatment facility that the IAEA experts visited this week. During the visit and through discussions with ZNPP staff, the IAEA experts were informed that the inventory of liquid waste on site varies, due to the routine generation of waste together with the subsequent treatment of the waste. Currently, there is liquid waste to be treated, after which the site will also treat more such waste resulting from the regeneration of ion exchange resins, which are essential for maintaining the purity of the water, including that needed for the cooling of the spent fuel. As previously stated, the IAEA experts have strongly been encouraging the ZNPP to investigate all possible options to install an external boiler to generate the steam required, which would enable the plant to bring all units into a cold shutdown state. Also as reported earlier, the Ukraine national regulator - SNRIU - has issued regulatory orders to limit the operation of all six units to a cold shutdown state. At Ukraine's three other nuclear power plants and the Chornobyl site, the IAEA teams based at these facilities reported no new nuclear safety and security issues over the past week. A rotation of IAEA experts was successfully conducted at the Chornobyl site earlier this week. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. Diplomat Says It's 'Too Early' To Rule Out Significant Gains For Ukraine's Counteroffensive By Elitsa Simeonova September 15, 2023 PRAGUE -- The U.S. ambassador to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) has said it is "too early" to rule out the possibility that Kyiv's counteroffensive against Russian forces will achieve "significant gains." Ambassador Michael Carpenter said in an interview with RFE/RL on September 15 that the West needs to provide the military capabilities Ukraine's forces need "to be able to have that breakthrough." "I think it's too early at this stage in mid-September to rule out any significant gains in the counteroffensive," Carpenter said. "I think it could still be the case that they could punch through those contiguous lines of defense that the Russians have established. "I think the bottom line is that we need to cement the Western alliance of countries, continue to stand in unity with Ukraine, and provide cutting-edge military capabilities that they need to be able to have that breakthrough." Kyiv launched its counteroffensive in Ukraine's east and south in June but the effort has been slowed by heavily fortified Russian defensive lines. Ukrainian officials have frequently pushed back at criticism about the pace of the Ukrainian military's strategy to take back Russian-occupied territory. While Washington early this month downplayed such criticism, saying that notable progress has been made, there have been widespread suggestions that public support for continued aid to Ukraine could diminish if the counteroffensive fails to meet high expectations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has said that "slower" arms shipments from Western countries are threatening the counteroffensive and called for Ukraine's partners to send more powerful and long-range weapons to push back Russian forces. Carpenter said that Kyiv's push for more weapon supplies is understandable, as "the Ukrainians are fighting an existential fight." "Their young men and women are dying in the trenches," he said. "And so they need everything they can get." The White House confirmed on September 15 that U.S. President Joe Biden will host Zelenskiy at the White House on September 21 and that the Ukrainian president will also visit the U.S. Congress. Zelenskiy is also slated to speak at the UN General Assembly in New York next week. Zelenskiy is expected to use his in-person appearance with U.S. and world leaders to rally support and plead for advanced weapons and ammunition to fend off Russia's full-scale invasion that began in February 2022. During Kyiv's counteroffensive, Ukrainian forces have also attacked the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia illegally seized from Ukraine and annexed in 2014. Carpenter said the General Assembly "is an important time" for Zelenskiy to meet with world leaders and to secure support as Ukraine continues its counteroffensive. "This is a moment for Zelenskiy to speak to the president but also to the American people," Carpenter said. He also said that the visit would be an opportunity "to underscore that Ukraine's fight is not just a desire to reconquer territories that have been occupied by a foreign power, but it's really a fight for the future of the international system as such, for the principles that we, in the OSCE, hold dear -- sovereignty, inviolability of borders, territorial integrity." Last week, the United States announced new aid for Ukraine totaling more than $1 billion, including over $665 million in military and civilian security assistance. Washington has been Kyiv's largest security partner, investing more than $44 billion in security assistance since 2021. Ukraine is almost entirely dependent on Western military aid and equipment to wage its defense against the Russian invasion, now approaching its 19 month. Kyiv has repeatedly pressed the United States and other allies for more powerful weaponry, such as F-16 fighter jets, which could be put into service as early as next year. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/osce-carpenter-ukraine-war- russia-counteroffensive/32594829.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine Touts Battlefield Successes As Zelenskiy Prepares To Meet Biden Next Week By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service September 15, 2023 Ukraine has claimed multiple victories in its ongoing counteroffensive against Russian forces as its president prepares for meetings next week with U.S. President Joe Biden and Congress that could prove influential in mustering international support for Kyiv as it battles Russia's 18-month-old invasion. U.S. national-security adviser Jake Sullivan confirmed on September 15 that Biden will host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Washington on September 21 for what will be their third meeting at the White House. Both Biden and Zelenskiy are slated to address the 78th session of the UN General Assembly next week, and Zelenskiy is expected to use his in-person appearance with U.S. and world leaders to rally support and plead for advanced weapons and ammunition to aid his country's ongoing counteroffensive to retake Ukrainian territory occupied by Russian forces. Sullivan also said that Zelenskiy will visit the U.S. Capitol, where he can meet "congressional leaders from both parties to make the case that the United States has been a great friend and partner to Ukraine throughout this entire brutal war." The U.S. Congress is currently debating Biden's request to provide as much as $24 billion in military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine. "It certainly comes at a critical time, as Russia desperately seeks help from countries like North Korea for its brutal war in Ukraine, as Ukrainian forces continue to make progress in their counteroffensive, and just after the next Ukraine defense contact group meeting," Sullivan said, referring to a meeting organized by U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin that will be held in Europe next week. Russian President Vladimir Putin held a summit this week with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in eastern Russia in what Western officials believe could be an effort by Moscow to trade advanced technology for ammunition to feed its war in Ukraine. Putin and Kim are reportedly planning to meet again in North Korea at Kim's invitation. Reports have suggested that pressure from the United States and other allies has mounted on Ukraine to demonstrate success in the ongoing major counteroffensive it launched in June. Zelenskiy and other Ukrainian officials have pushed back on criticisms about the pace of the Ukrainian military's push to retake Russian-occupied areas of southern and eastern Ukraine. Earlier this month, Zelenskiy announced that he had replaced Ukraine's defense minister because "new approaches" were needed. He also has repeatedly touted the Ukrainian military's successes on the battlefield, insisting that "no matter what anyone says, we are advancing, and that is the most important thing." Late on September 14, Zelenskiy said in his nightly video address that Ukrainian forces had achieved a "triumph" earlier in the day by "destroying" Russian air defenses in occupied Crimea. But reports have nevertheless suggested that pressure from the United States and other allies has mounted on Ukraine to demonstrate success in the counteroffensive it launched in June. Last week, Zelenskiy said that "slower" arms shipments from Western countries were threatening the counteroffensive and called for a renewed drive to impose further sanctions on Moscow. The Biden-Zelenskiy meeting would be their first since the sidelines of a NATO summit in Lithuania in July. Zelenskiy last visited the United States in December, in his first trip abroad since the all-out invasion began in February 2022. Early on September 15, the General Staff of Ukraine's military said its troops had retaken the Donetsk town of Andriyivka, about 10 kilometers southwest of Bakhmut, "inflicting significant losses on the enemy in manpower and equipment." A day earlier, Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Malyar announced the liberation of Andriyivka before withdrawing her statement and saying heavy fighting there was continuing and the situation was "very difficult and volatile." Ukraine's military also said it was having "partial success" in the nearby area of Klishchiyivka. RFE/RL cannot independently confirm claims of battlefield developments by either side in areas of the heaviest fighting. With reporting by CNN, The Washington Post, and Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-fighting-success-zelenskiy- biden/32593983.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address A Philosophy Professor And Karadzic's Lawyer: The Serbian Observers Who Praised Russia's 'Sham' Elections In Occupied Ukraine By Dusan Komarcevic, Milos Katic, Andy Heil September 15, 2023 BELGRADE -- If politics makes strange bedfellows, elections are the nuptials. And even shotgun weddings need witnesses. So, as it has done repeatedly in Russia and in freshly occupied Crimea nine years ago, the Kremlin once again relied on loose ideological allies volunteering from abroad to "observe" and undersign countrywide regional and local elections, which were being held in Russian-occupied Crimea but also in four other parts of Ukraine -- Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhya, and Kherson. Moscow unilaterally claimed those latter places as its own in September 2022, including swaths of Ukrainian territory outside Russian troops' control. The September 8-10 voting in Ukraine has been roundly condemned by Kyiv and by leading democracies that described it in blunt terms as "sham 'elections'" in illegally occupied lands. The EU also warned Russia of the consequences for those who took part in the organization of the "illegal" elections in Ukraine. But Goran Simpraga, the director of a pro-Kremlin media outlet in Serbia who describes himself simply as a journalist and producer from Belgrade, failed to see the problem. He shared images of himself in Zaporizhzhya on Russian social network VKontakte, saying he had participated in a meeting of "international experts" with the chairwoman of Russia's Central Election Commission, Ella Pamfilova, who was also pictured. Simpraga also posted a five-minute video in Russian praising the elections, saying, among other things, that they were organized "according to national standards." "When talking about these elections, I think that Russia is one of the few countries that is capable of organizing such elections," he said, with fellow Serbian Goran Petronijevic sitting alongside him. Simpraga and Petronijevic were two of three Serbian nationals singled out by the Ukrainian Embassy in Belgrade for their participation as "observers" in the Kremlin-led effort to legitimize Russian elections inside Ukraine's internationally recognized borders. Petronijevic was a judge during the rule of the late Yugoslav and Serbian leader Slobodan Milosevic, who was indicted by the UN war crimes tribunal before his death in 2006. He was also a lawyer for wartime Bosnian Serb leader Radovan Karadzic and others being tried for war crimes at The Hague. The third Serbian, Srdjan Perisic, is a former adviser to Putin ally Milorad Dodik, the current secessionist president of Republika Srpska, the majority Serb entity that along with a Bosniak and Croat federation makes up Bosnia-Herzegovina. All three are notable for their support for Putin's policies or pro-Kremlin influence-building in the Balkans, where Serbian officials led by President Aleksandar Vucic have been critical of Western efforts to punish Russia for its attack on Ukraine. At least two of the men have personal or professional ties to the Russky Dum (Russian House) in Belgrade, an office of a Russian federal agency that does diaspora outreach and humanitarian work but since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has organized and supported events seeking to justify the war. Word that Petronijevic and Simpraga were in Zaporizhzhya was initially published on September 10 by Dejan Beric, a Serbian national who is currently being tried in absentia in Serbia for allegedly fighting for the Russian side as a sniper in eastern Ukraine. Petronijevic and Simpraga "found themselves in the 'hottest' spot, in Zaporizhzhya, near the front line," Beric, who has since described himself as a war correspondent, told his 100,000 followers on the Telegram messaging platform. A day later, Perisic, who is a professor of philosophy in East Sarajevo, a hub of Serb political influence that is across the inter-entity boundary line from the Bosnian capital, Sarajevo, told the Serbian news agency SRNA that he had visited polling stations in Novoazovsk, Mariupol, and Donetsk as an observer. He shared two photos of himself in a helmet and a combat vest "on a visit to Donbas," parlance for the Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine. It's unclear in what or whose international framework the three might have been acting as would-be observers. Any Serbian observers for the office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) that monitors elections, the ODIHR, would have traveled abroad on such a mission with the consent of the Serbian Foreign Ministry, according to the Center for Research, Transparency, and Accountability, a pro-democracy NGO in Belgrade. But the OSCE, which operates by invitation, sent no mission to cover either the regional and local elections in Russia, which were dominated by President Vladimir Putin's United Russia party, or the Russian-orchestrated voting in occupied parts of Ukraine. The Serbian Foreign Ministry did not respond to a query from RFE/RL's Balkan Service about potential observer missions to occupied Ukraine in time for this article. RFE/RL contacted all three men with questions about their "observer" status but none of them responded. The Ukrainian Embassy in Belgrade issued a statement on September 13 describing the voting as "fake elections" that are "null and unrecognized by the international community." It said they were "another attempt by the Kremlin to legalize aggression, an attempt to annex and temporarily take military control over part of the sovereign and independent European state of Ukraine." The embassy cited Petronijevic, Simpraga, and Perisic by name and added: "Persons involved in the implementation of these fraudulent elections, including the leadership of the Russian Federation, representatives of the occupying administrations and electoral structures, as well as their propagandists, will be brought to justice." It added that "Ukraine will also initiate the introduction of new international sanctions against those involved." The European Union has imposed 11 rounds of sanctions on Russia since its initial invasion of Crimea in 2014, targeting its businesses and economy, its military, and citizens' ability to travel, along with many other measures aimed at individuals it accuses of contributing to that aggression or the full-scale invasion that followed eight years later. Serbia's government has refused to join such measures, and continues to cooperate with Russia diplomatically and in the areas of trade, energy, defense, and travel. It has appeared reluctant to jail Serbian nationals for traveling to Ukraine to fight alongside Russia-backed separatists or Russian forces despite criminal legislation strictly forbidding citizens from joining foreign wars, handing out suspended sentences in dozens of cases. In some of those cases, the individuals have reportedly returned to the fighting. Serbian nationals have participated before in observer missions organized by Russia to endorse balloting in Ukraine during the current war. Misa Vacic, leader of the radical Serbian Right party, was in the occupied Ukrainian city of Volgograd in September 2022 for a referendum on joining Russia that Moscow used to justify its annexations. Vacic's party said at the time that he'd been invited by the Putin administration and that he'd toured polling stations in refugee camps in the area. Perisic was also among the Moscow-friendly observers of those votes, too. That trip earned both men criticism from Kyiv, which called such observers "puppets of the Kremlin," and a place on the FakeObservers website run by the European Platform for Democratic Elections (EPDE). The EPDE is an alliance of independent citizen-election-observation groups from across Europe. Perisic was an adviser to nationalist Bosnian Serb leader Dodik when the latter was the Serb representative on Bosnia-Herzegovina's three-member presidency, until Perisic was dismissed without explanation in 2019. But Petronijevic is arguably the most widely known of the three Serbians in Ukraine this month. In 2000, he sentenced nearly 150 ethnic Albanians from Kosovo for alleged terrorism as a judge during the Milosevic regime. After Milosevic was toppled later that year by a popular movement amid international pressure, Petronijevic became an attorney and subsequently represented alleged war criminals including Republika Srpska President Karadzic in The Hague. Last month, Petronijevic announced his plans to defend Dodik from Bosnian state charges stemming from the Bosnian Serb leader's moves to negate or ignore decisions by the country's Constitutional Court and its UN-backed overseer, High Representative Christian Schmidt. Petronijevic is listed in the Serbian business registry as the owner of Medija Centar Nogina I Kurinoja-Ruski Ekspres in Belgrade, a news agency created in 2014. Simpraga is also listed as Medija Centar's director. Medija Centar's posts are frequently shared by the Russian House in the Serbian capital, a representative office of the Russian Federal Agency for the Commonwealth of Independent States Affairs, Compatriots Living Abroad, and International Humanitarian Cooperation, known as Rossotrudnichestvo. Rossotrudnichestvo is an independent agency under the auspices of the Russian Foreign Ministry active in diaspora relations and humanitarian efforts abroad. It has regularly organized and supported events that justify the war in Ukraine. Russian House Director Yevgeny Baranov, who enjoys diplomatic immunity, has appeared in photos alongside Simpraga on social networks. Baranov is also a former chairman of the Russian Humanitarian Mission (RHM), an NGO that Petronijevic helped found and that shares a Belgrade address with the Medija Centar news agency. The RHM's projects include financing the construction of a road in southern Serbia that has been named in honor Putin since 2016. Written by Andy Heil based on reporting in Belgrade by RFE/RL's Balkan Service correspondents Dusan Komarcevic and Milos Katic. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/occupied-ukraine-russia- sham-elections-serbian-observers-/32594515.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's participation in a roundtable discussion on the Ukrainian crisis at the Foreign Ministry's Diplomatic Academy 15 September 2023 14:06 1776-15-09-2023 On September 15, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov took part in the roundtable discussion, The Ukrainian Crisis: Mediation and Humanitarian Initiatives. The event, organised by the Diplomatic Academy with support of the Foreign Ministry, brought together ambassadors and diplomats from 35 countries, including the countries that proposed mediatory and humanitarian initiatives related to the Ukrainian crisis. The foreign guests confirmed their states' proposals regarding good causes and had an in-depth discussion of the current developments in Ukraine and possible political and diplomatic ways to resolve the situation based on the understanding of the roots of the conflict and with regard to the current political and territorial realities. The Russian party praised the mediation and humanitarian efforts of its partners and their readiness to make a constructive contribution to reaching a truly comprehensive, sustainable and just settlement of the Ukrainian crisis. The meeting participants expressed their common intent to continue honest and constructive dialogue on the matter. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary to Extend Ukrainian Grain Import Ban Despite European Expiry Sputnik News 20230915 WARSAW (Sputnik) - Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary have imposed a ban on imports of Ukrainian grain since midnight, despite the European Commission's refusal to extend the embargo. Poland will introduce a ban on the import of Ukrainian grain starting September 16, despite the decision of the European Commission not to extend the restrictions, Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki stated on Friday. "We will extend the ban on the import of Ukrainian grain. We will not listen to Berlin, we will not listen to Brussels," Morawiecki said, adding that the ban will take effect starting midnight. Moreover, Slovakia will unilaterally extend the ban on the import of Ukrainian grain from Ukraine, a Slovak broadcaster reported on Friday, citing the Slovak Agriculture Ministry. The ban on the import of grain from Ukraine to Slovakia will take effect starting midnight, the broadcaster said. In addition, Hungary refused to comply with the European Commission decision to lift the import ban on Ukrainian products, according to Hungary's Agriculture Minister IstvAn Nagy. "Brussels has decided not to extend the ban on the import of Ukrainian grain. Hungary is closing borders at the national level, extending the ban to 24 Ukrainian goods," Nagy sated on social media. Earlier in the day, the European Commission announced that it will lift the ban on duty-free Ukrainian grain imports to five neighboring EU countries and oblige Kiev to introduce export control measures. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia's Su-34 Jets Start Using Long-Range Cruise Missiles in Special Op Zone in Ukraine Sputnik News 20230915 Russian Su-34 jets are now equipped with long-range cruise missiles, and they have already been used in Ukraine, an informed source told Sputnik. ''We have conducted in the course of the special military operation thorough tests and evaluations to determine the feasibility of using long-range cruise missiles on Su-34 [jets], which marks the beginning of their use on this particular aircraft. The missile itself is not new, nor is the aircraft, but this is the first time they have been used together. This solution increases the practicality of using both the missile and the aircraft," the source siad. The source added that the Su-34 has already successfully hit a Ukrainian military facility with long-range cruise missiles. In order to work out the new missile carrier air complex composition, the most up-to-date version of the Su-34 fighter-bomber has been used, the source added. "As long-range cruise missile carriers, Su-34 might be required for strategic purposes in case of conflict with NATO members," the source clarified. Earlier, Telegram channel The Fighterbomber reported that Su-34 jets also started to strike targets in the special operation zone with universal planning and correction modules (UMPC) which carried unguided FAB-1500 bombs weighing 1.5 tons. In this context, the source specified that "UMPC with larger-caliber bombs have already been used, and now Su-34 can strike Ukrainian targets with UMPC-250, UMPC-500 and UMPC-1500". The UMPC is attached to a conventional free-falling bomb, turning it into a guided one. The module is fitted with a folding wing and handlebars, as well as a control system that automatically aims the munition at the target. Earlier, an Su-34 was used during the special operation with UMPC-250 and UMPC-500. The two-seated fighter-bomber is designed to hit ground, surface and air targets day and night in normal and adverse weather conditions. It can carry up to eight tons of weapons on its 12 external hardpoints. The most up-to-date version of the Su-34 jet was designed with the latest means of destruction. The aircraft has new and improved onboard radio-electronic equipment and more sophisticated reconnaissance, guidance and target capabilities. Namely, the modernized aircraft can use suspended universal reconnaissance containers that allow high-precision positioning and other parameters of enemy targets. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Lavrov: Zelensky's Peace Plan Aimed at Strategically Defeating Russia Sputnik News 20230915 Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov criticized the peace plan proposed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, stating that it is a strategic attempt to defeat Russia and to persuade Asian, African, and Latin American nations to align with this idea. "We have always been told by the West that the only basis for any negotiations is the Zelensky formula ... It starts with ... food security, energy security, physical security of nuclear facilities, humanitarian issues. And then this formula moves to the very thing for which it was made up - strategic defeat of Russia to restore Ukraine's 1991 borders, to put the Russian leadership under the tribunal, to make Russia pay reparations," Lavrov said at a roundtable on the Ukrainian settlement in Moscow. According to the top Russian diplomat, Western countries have been attempting to enlist the support of "global majority countries," including Asian, African, and Latin American nations, in order to endorse this scheme. They characterize this approach as nothing less than a blatant deception. Zelensky said in the fall of 2022 that Kiev had its own peace plan to end the ongoing conflict and at the very same time signed a law, prohibiting peace talks with Russia. Moscow repeatedly stressed that it is open to negotiations that respect the interests of Russian people and recognize the "new territorial reality". Kremlin officials also said that Kiev is seemingly not interested in negotiating a solution for the current crisis. Lavrov added that a "real plot" emerges around the issue of Russian-Ukrainian peace negotiations, attempting to "turn everything upside down". "A real plot emerges around the subject of the so-called negotiations, attempting to turn everything upside down through pseudo-diplomacy. Just as it was done during the beginning of the Ukrainian events, which for many years have been prioritized by our Western colleagues, primarily the United States and the United Kingdom. They invested billions of dollars in the Ukrainian opposition and brought it to power through an unconstitutional bloody coup," Lavrov said at a roundtable on the Ukrainian settlement in Moscow which included the diplomatic missions from over 30 countries. The minister also said that many proposals for humanitarian and mediation initiatives have recently been made. On Economic Aspects of Ukrainian Crisis The United States has been "cleaning" the European market of the bloc's weapons by providing Ukraine with large amounts of funding and enabling Kiev to procure European military equipment in order to supply US-produced arms to the European Union and NATO countries, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Friday. "Look at the sums that are being allocated to help Ukraine, look at how former Soviet, Russian, and now Western weapons are being pumped out of Europe. The market is being freed to supply US military products for the rearmament of EU and NATO countries via the large-scale funding and purchase of US weapons produced by American corporations," Lavrov said at a roundtable on the Ukrainian settlement with the participation of representatives of diplomatic missions from more than 30 countries. In recent months, NATO countries and their allies have held several meetings within the US-led Ukraine Defense Contact Group at the Ramstein air base in Germany to provide weapons and military equipment to Ukraine. The next meeting is scheduled for September 18. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Ship Destroys Unmanned Boat of Ukrainian Military in Black Sea Sputnik News 20230915 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - A Black Sea Fleet ship destroyed an unmanned boat of the Ukrainian armed forces in the Black Sea on Friday morning., the Russian Defense Ministry said. "This morning, a small Askold cruiser of the Black Sea Fleet discovered an unmanned boat of the Ukrainian armed forces in the Black Sea. The unmanned enemy boat was destroyed by fire from the ship's standard weapons," the ministry said in a statement. Earlier, Sergei Kotov patrol vessel of the Black Sea Fleet destroyed five Ukrainian drone boats overnight. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Volodymyr Zelenskyy holds meeting on strengthening sustainability of democracy in Ukraine President of Ukraine 15 September 2023 - 21:44 President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with representatives of the Government of Ukraine, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, law enforcement agencies, the prosecutor's office, and anti-corruption agencies, at which the concept of strengthening the sustainability of democracy in Ukraine was discussed. The Head of State said that along with today's most important challenge of repelling the aggression of the Russian Federation, the Ukrainian authorities must also work on overcoming external and internal threats and implementing other elements, in particular, ensuring justice for our citizens. For this, as Zelenskyy pointed out, steps are needed to make it possible ensuring the implementation of justice that people will feel. "Such measures are extremely necessary and should have very concrete manifestations in state policy," the President said. In view of this, the meeting participants proposed that a concept of strengthening the sustainability of democracy in Ukraine is prepared and a step-by-step plan for its implementation is developed. In response, the Head of State said that the measures contained in the concept should apply to absolutely everything: the protection of Ukraine's national security, the final elimination of oligarchic and corrupt influence, and so on. The President thanked the law enforcement officers for all the work they have done, especially for the results of the past months. "We see very clearly that there is no future for oligarchic clans in Ukraine. This is evident from those criminal cases pursued by law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies. This should yield long-term results," Zelenskyy said. In addition, according to the President's conviction, the state must provide long-term effective guarantees that, regardless of the developments in Russia, Ukraine will be protected from activities aimed at undermining democracy within our country. "We must protect our state, system, our values, above all, freedom and democracy," he said. The meeting participants also agreed that the concept should contain steps toward supporting the development of competition, de-monopolization and fair distribution of resources, development of transparent mechanisms of interaction with the state. The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, the Verkhovna Rada and other public authorities must take a series of steps to strengthen parliamentarism and the ability of voters to influence state's governance, enhance the institutional capacities of public authorities, including law enforcement agencies, the prosecutor's office and anti-corruption agencies, develop the judiciary, implement equality policy guarantees in relations between the state and all economic entities, expand the opportunities for Ukrainian citizens to influence political decisions and the course of the state, and more. "Justice is important to us. There is a corresponding political will. And thanks to the systematic and coordinated work of public institutions in Ukraine, as well as the support of civil society, I am sure we can implement all this," the President concluded. Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Ruslan Stefanchuk, Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal, Chairman of the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine Oleksandr Lytvynenko, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak, Head of the National Police of Ukraine Ivan Vyhivsky, Head of the Antimonopoly Committee of Ukraine Pavlo Kyrylenko, Deputy Prosecutor General, Head of the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office Oleksandr Klymenko, Director of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine Semen Kryvonos, Head of the Security Service of Ukraine Vasyl Maliuk, Minister of Justice of Ukraine Denys Maliuska, Head of the National Agency on Corruption Prevention Oleksandr Novikov, acting Director of the Bureau of Economic Security of Ukraine Andriy Paschuk, and Director of the State Bureau of Investigation Oleksiy Sukhachev attended the meeting. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Andriy Yermak discusses implementation of sixth point of Peace Formula regarding withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine at another meeting with ambassadors President of Ukraine 15 September 2023 - 21:10 On the instructions of the President of Ukraine, Head of the Office of the President Andriy Yermak held the eighth meeting with representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in our country regarding the implementation of Volodymyr Zelenskyy's Peace Formula. The event was devoted to the implementation of the sixth point of the Formula "Withdrawal of Russian troops and cessation of hostilities." Representatives of over 70 foreign states participated in the discussion, which took place on the territory of the Antonov airport in Hostomel. Ambassadors and diplomatic representatives had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the consequences of the attacks of the Russian troops on the airport, inspect the destruction of the office premises of the Antonov State Enterprise, hangars, and see with their own eyes the hangar and the remains of the legendary An-225 Mriya aircraft. Congratulating those present, Yermak emphasized that the sixth point of the Peace Formula is being discussed in the place where one of the most important battles of this war took place in the first days of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine - the battle for Kyiv. "On February 24 last year, the battle for the capital of Ukraine began here. Here the myth about the invincibility of the Russian army was shattered. Here, the Kremlin's ambitions to "take Kyiv in three days" were dispelled. And here, during five weeks of occupation, the "Russian peace" showed its true essence: robbery, torture, mass murders," the head of the Office of the President said. He said that thanks to Ukrainian warriors, this place became truly heroic. "We had a unique "Mriya." It evoked wonder and admiration from the entire world. It brought goodness, delivered goods to the most remote corners of the planet. The aggressor destroyed this Ukraine's symbol. But even its remnants, which you see here, have become a new symbol of our resistance. And I am confident that in the future they will become a symbol of recovery," Yermak added. At the same time, the head of the President's Office said: with the loss of the "Mriya," Ukrainians have achieved a goal - a just and lasting peace, which, according to Yermak, is possible only when Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity is restored and the armed formations of the aggressor are withdrawn from our territory. The head of the President's Office emphasized: the withdrawal of troops is a mandatory condition for peace, and any other options are unacceptable, as they can lead to a prolongation of the war. "Since 2014, Russia has been using the temporarily occupied territories to expand its aggression against Ukraine, causing severe humanitarian consequences and civilian casualties, massive migration flows and artificially altering the national and ethnic composition of these territories. Therefore, ceasing fire and freezing the conflict without the liberation of all Ukrainian territories is an obviously unacceptable scenario. It will only contribute to the preservation of the criminal regime in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine and create conditions for the continuation of the war," he said. The head of the Office of the President also said that the defense forces will continue to do everything to knock out the aggressor from Ukraine, and the success of our fighters is the key factor in restoring the territorial integrity of the state. "Restoring Ukraine's territorial integrity without turning the war into a frozen conflict will determine global security for decades to come. This can serve as a universal mechanism for ending international armed conflicts in the future. The relevant instruments implemented in the context of the war in Ukraine can potentially become universal and be reflected in United Nations General Assembly resolutions," Yermak is convinced. He urged those present to work on these mechanisms and noted that he expects fruitful results from today's meeting. A briefing was also held for representatives of the diplomatic corps. In particular, a representative of the Defense Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense spoke about the defense of Hostomel and the impact of these events on the further success of defending the Ukrainian capital. Deputy Head of the President's Office Roman Mashovets informed about the current situation at the front, namely about the counteroffensive actions of the defense forces in each of the operational directions. Minister of Defense of Ukraine Rustem Umerov focused the attention of the participants on the specifics of the military and political aspects of the implementation of the Peace Formula. Lieutenant General Oleksandr Pavliuk familiarized the event participants with the details of the operation of the newly created working group, responsible for the implementation of the sixth point of the Peace Formula "Withdrawal of Russian troops and cessation of hostilities." Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council Oleksiy Danilov outlined the key aspects of the global context of Russia's war against Ukraine. The Ukrainian side called on representatives of foreign states not only to work together to end the war in our country, but also to join forces to create new security mechanisms. The need for further support for the Ukrainian military, strengthening our air defense and creating conditions for Ukrainian dominance in the sky was also emphasized. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Europe always wins when treaties work and promises are kept - address of President of Ukraine President of Ukraine 15 September 2023 - 21:05 I wish you good health, dear Ukrainian men and women! I had a phone call with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. Restrictive measures against our agricultural exports by the European Union have been cancelled. Now, it is important that European unity works on a bilateral level - with the neighbors. That the neighbors would support Ukraine during the war. Europe always wins when treaties work and promises are kept. Well, if the neighbors' decisions are not neighborly, Ukraine will respond civilly. I held a lengthy meeting with government officials and the Office regarding our further tactics in protecting our agreements and free trade with the EU. By helping each other and safeguarding our shared freedom in Europe, especially economic freedom, we strengthen everyone in Europe. And this is particularly important now in the face of the genocidal aggression unleashed by Russia. I held a new meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief's Staff today. First and foremost is the front. Commander-in-Chief Zaluzhny, commanders - reports on the situation in the main directions. Chief of Defense Intelligence Budanov - a separate report. Minister for Strategic Industries Kamyshin - substantially about the production of weapons and rounds in Ukraine. Every week we record the progress of the state in its own defense production. There is a significant and much-needed result for Ukraine near Bakhmut - our soldiers liberated Andriivka. The 3rd assault division, all involved forces, headquarters, commander -General Syrsky. Guys, thank you all! Our active actions continue near Klishchiivka and Kurdiumivka. The 36th separate marine brigade operates strongly near Opytne and Vodiane. Thank you, guys! Near Verbove - our unyielding warriors, thank you! Near Novoprokopivka - well done! I am proud of all the warriors who bring our victory closer! Today, on the eve of the Rescuer's Day, I congratulated the team of Ukraine's State Emergency Service and thanked them for their courageous and selfless work. I took part in awarding laureates of the Ukrainian action "Hero - Rescuer of the Year". And this event is much more than one of the official events. Our gratitude to the employees of the State Emergency Service. Every state and departmental award for rescuers is a reflection of the fact that people's lives are protected. I had a meeting with Karim Khan, Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court. We talked about the approach of justice for Ukraine and for all people who suffered from Russian war crimes. The responsibility must be clear, concrete, completely fair - just like the warrant for Putin's arrest issued by the International Criminal Court. What the Russian dictator was really afraid of. And now, he tries not to leave Russia, because the force of law exists, and it is strong. And the world has every opportunity for the law to overcome the aggression of the bandit force. We are preparing for important international events scheduled for the second half of September. I had several long meetings about this today. We are doing everything to ensure that there are significant results for Ukraine - both in new defense packages from partners and in the decisions of international institutions. We also work to strengthen Ukraine's institutions, for the ability of our state to finally destroy oligarchic and corrupt influences. Influences that, in particular, Russia used for so long to weaken Ukraine, to constantly "eat away" the sovereignty of our state. Today, I held a broad and meaningful meeting with representatives of law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, the government, and the Office. We are preparing conceptual steps that will give Ukraine and our entire society more justice, and democracy in our state - guaranteed sustainability. One more. Today, the Ukrainian Jewish community, together with all the Jews of the world, celebrates Rosh Hashanah. I congratulate everyone who is celebrating, and I wish the next year will be peaceful - finally peaceful for all of Ukraine, for all our people. Ukraine deserves peace because it is doing everything for victory. I thank everyone who fights for freedom and independence! I thank everyone who helps! Glory to Ukraine! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Rostyslav Shurma discusses improvement of business conditions in Ukraine with entrepreneurs President of Ukraine 15 September 2023 - 20:28 On the instructions of President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Deputy Head of the Office of the President Rostyslav Shurma held a meeting with entrepreneurs regarding the facilitation of business conditions in the country and the reform of inspection bodies. Over 60 businessmen took part in the event, including owners of industrial, logistics, and financial companies. Shurma shared current developments in consolidating the investigation of economic crimes within a single law enforcement agency. This concept will be presented shortly, after which the relevant bills will be submitted to the Verkhovna Rada. Additionally, he mentioned that an analysis is being conducted to assess the feasibility of consolidating approximately ten inspections with environmental functions into a single inspection body called EcoRanger. In addition, agreements on four specific issues were reached during the meeting. In particular, on the initiative of the co-owner of the Ukravit concern Vitaliy Ilchenko, the path taken by investors who build new enterprises in the country will be analyzed for possible deregulation. "In this example, we will specifically analyze which regulatory procedures need to be removed or modified to simplify the construction of new factories," the deputy head of the President's Office said. At the suggestion of First Vice-President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mykhailo Nepran, the world experience regarding the responsibility of law enforcement agencies for abuse of official position, unfair, biased and illegal treatment of business will be analyzed. With the co-owner of the Milk Alliance concern Oleksandr Derkach, it was agreed to consider the possibility of a legislative reduction of payment terms by retail chains for products delivered to them. Such a step is necessary due to the fact that there is an active discussion between retail chains and manufacturers regarding the terms of payments for the supplied products. "We will study the practices of developed countries where powerful national retail networks have been established. Specifically, we will analyze the experience of Lidl, Aldi in Germany, Carrefour in France, Tesco in the United Kingdom, Walmart in the United States. Based on this analysis, it will become evident whether it makes sense to change the rules of retail payments for goods provided for sale," Shurma said. It was agreed with Oleksandr Sokolovsky, the owner of the Textile-Contact company, that an algorithm will be prepared for closing criminal cases against businesses, for which no procedural actions have been taken for a long time and which have no prospects. "The President of Ukraine has tasked us with doing everything possible to ease the work of entrepreneurs in our country. With this goal in mind, we will continue regular communication with the business community. To take this communication to a fundamentally different level, we must speak the language of specific, well-founded proposals and avoid general judgments and statements," the deputy head of the Office of the President concluded. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address President: Ukrainian rescuers demonstrate fortitude and dedication to our country and people every day President of Ukraine 15 September 2023 - 14:13 President Volodymyr Zelenskyy congratulated the employees of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine on their upcoming professional holiday and took part in the awarding ceremony of the Hero - Rescuer of the Year nationwide action. The Head of State thanked the employees of the State Emergency Service for maintaining the viability of the entire Ukrainian society, cities and villages amid the war unleashed by Russia. "Eliminating the consequences of Russian shelling, extinguishing fires, rescuing people from under the rubble, demining our Ukrainian land, destroying Russian unexploded ordnance, delivering humanitarian aid to the de-occupied territory, restoring critical infrastructure and networks - all this is your job. All this is everyday life for the State Emergency Service of Ukraine," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. The President emphasized that the daily work of the State Emergency Service employees resulted in thousands of lives saved, over 100,000 fires extinguished, and over 430,000 explosive devices disarmed. "Ukrainian invincibility is literally the result of your work, in particular. It is often extremely risky, but heroic, when a bulletproof vest becomes a mandatory element of a rescuer's overalls, when it is necessary to save people, and the shelling continues. When you work in the cities and districts shelled by Russia every day," the Head of State noted. Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion, 435 Ukrainian rescuers have been awarded state awards, and three SES employees have been awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine. "287 employees of the State Emergency Service were wounded while performing their duties. 80 Ukrainian rescuers were killed," the President said. The Head of State emphasized that our warriors often do impossible things to chase away the occupiers and bring the Ukrainian victory closer. "This heroism at the front should be based on the dedication and focus of people in the rear. Everyone who works for the sake of our country. Those whose profession is to save and help, and those who feel life in such a way, respect life so much that they become the rescuers of other lives," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. The President emphasized that today the bravery of not only professional employees of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, but also ordinary people who saved the lives of others is being honored. "I thank all of you - all of you who are rescuing - for setting this kind of example - an example of dedication and focus on the interests of the state and people," he added. The audience observed a minute of silence in memory of the fallen heroic Ukrainian rescuers. The President presented the Orders "For Courage" of the II and III degrees to the employees of the State Emergency Service. In the presence of the Head of State, the winners of the Hero - Rescuer of the Year nationwide action were also awarded. The award was given to Ukrainians who demonstrated courage and heroism while saving lives in the face of a full-scale Russian invasion. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Missile Strike Delivers Blow to Russia's Black Sea Fleet By VOA News September 15, 2023 Ukraine's military said Friday it has recaptured the village of Andriivka, some 10 kilometers south of the key frontline Russian-occupied city of Bakhmut, following intense battles with Russian troops. The latest victory in Ukraine's protracted, multipronged counteroffensive comes just days ahead of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's expected visit to Washington. Also Friday, Britain's Defense Ministry confirmed that a missile strike targeting the naval headquarters of Russia's Black Sea Fleet in Crimea earlier this week delivered a blow that may have crippled portions of the facility for weeks or possibly months to come. The landing ship Minsk and Kilo 636.3 class submarine Rostov-on-Don were undergoing maintenance at the Sevmorzavod shipyard in the base's dry docks when the missiles hit during a pre-dawn strike on Wednesday. Open-source evidence, the ministry said, "indicates the Minsk has almost certainly been functionally destroyed, while the Rostov has likely suffered catastrophic damage." According to the ministry's report, any effort to get the submarine up and running would "likely" take many years and cost hundreds of millions of dollars. In addition, the British ministry said, there is also "a realistic possibility" that the intricate task of removing the damaged vessels from the dry docks could put the docks out of commission for months and present Russia "with a significant challenge in sustaining fleet maintenance." The Rostov was, according to the British ministry, one of four of the Black Sea Fleet's cruise-missile capable submarines that "have played a major role in striking Ukraine and projecting Russian power across the Black Sea and Eastern Mediterranean." Zelenskyy White House visit Friday's developments precede Zelenskyy's anticipated arrival in Washington next week as the U.S. Congress continues to debate $21 billion more in aid to Ukraine to support its fight against Russia. U.S. lawmakers are increasingly divided over whether to provide Ukraine with more aid. President Joe Biden is seeking $13 billion in military aid and $8 billion in humanitarian aid, but some Republican lawmakers oppose sending more aid to Ukraine. Zelenskyy is expected to meet with Biden next week at the White House after the U.N. General Assembly meeting in New York. Although Ukraine's counteroffensive push against the Russian invasion has been slower than expected, Zelenskyy Thursday celebrated what he described as Ukraine's destruction of a Russian air defense system on the annexed Crimean Peninsula. "A special mention should be made to the entire personnel of the Security Service of Ukraine as well as our naval forces," Zelenskyy said in his nightly video message. "The invaders' air defense system was destroyed. Very significant, well done!" New sanctions Earlier on Thursday, the U.S. sanctioned more than 150 businesses and individuals in Russia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and Georgia to crack down on evasion of trade restrictions aimed at blocking funding for Russia's war against Ukraine, now in its 19th month. The newest sanctions package is one of the biggest imposed by the State Department and the U.S. Treasury. It targets those who are selling Western technology to Moscow to aid its war effort, particularly businesses and people in Turkey, a member of the Western military alliance that supports Ukraine. The sanctions, which block any assets the businesses and individuals might have in the U.S., are also aimed at hobbling the development of Russia's energy sector, which provides war funding, including Arctic natural gas projects, along with mining and factories producing and repairing Russian weapons. In addition, the U.S. sanctions target several Turkish and Russian companies that the State Department says help Moscow source U.S. and European electronic components a such as computer chips and processors a that can be used in civilian and military equipment. The State Department also is targeting Turkish companies that have provided ship repair services to a company affiliated with Russia's Defense Ministry. Before the war, James O'Brien of the State Department's sanctions coordination office said that Russia imported up to 90% of its electronics from countries that are part of the G7 major industrial nations, but sanctions have dropped that figure closer to 30%. Fighting continues On the battlefield, Ukraine's military said it shot down 17 of the 22 drones that Russia used to target multiple areas of Ukraine in overnight attacks. The Ukrainian military said Russia launched several waves of attacks directed at the Mykolaiv, Zaporizhzhia, Sumy and Dnipropetrovsk regions. Russia's Defense Ministry said its air defenses shot down multiple Ukrainian drones over the Bryansk region of western Russia early Thursday. Russia also said it repelled an attack on a patrol ship in the Black Sea, with Russian forces destroying five unmanned boats. Over Russian-controlled Crimea, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Telegram it destroyed 11 Ukrainian drones. Some information in this article came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US, Germany Commit to Long-Term Support for Ukraine By VOA News September 15, 2023 U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock spoke Friday in Washington, both reiterating their long-term support for Ukraine as it defends itself against Russia. Speaking to reporters following their talks, Blinken said Germany and the United States, along with dozens of other nations around the world, are committed to providing military, economic and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. He said they also discussed Ukraine's long-term ability not only to survive but to thrive following Russia's invasion. Baerbock echoed Blinken's remarks, saying support for Ukraine goes beyond arms deliveries to include humanitarian issues and repairing infrastructure. She said she discussed with Blinken how the U.S. and Germany can dovetail their assistance to Ukraine more closely. The two top diplomats were asked about Ukraine's ongoing requests for long-range missiles systems that could reach deep into Russia and the West's reluctance to provide them. Baerbock said Germany and other NATO allies have told Ukraine from the beginning of Russia's invasion that arms supplies would be limited to Ukraine's self-defense and reclaiming territory within Ukraine. The German foreign minister has been in the United States much of this week, traveling on Tuesday and Wednesday to Texas, where she visited an air base where German pilots are trained and meeting Thursday with U.S. lawmakers to discuss their continued support for Ukraine. Ukraine grain shipments Blinken said he and Baerbock also discussed the Black Sea Grain Initiative, which Russia ended in July, and alternatives to getting grain out of Ukraine and to developing nations that need it. Following a meeting on Friday in Bucharest with Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov, Romanian Transport Minister Sorin Grindeanu said the nation planned to double the monthly transit capacity for Ukrainian grain through its Constanta port to 4 million metric tons in the coming months. Speaking at a joint news conference, Kubrakov said they hope to double the port's capacity by the beginning of October, which could help Ukraine solve at least half of its export issues. Ukraine military advances Ukraine's military said Friday it has recaptured the village of Andriivka, about 10 kilometers south of the key front-line, Russian-occupied city of Bakhmut, following intense battles with Russian troops. The latest victory in Ukraine's protracted, multipronged counteroffensive comes just days ahead of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's expected visit to Washington. Also Friday, Britain's Defense Ministry confirmed that a missile strike targeting the naval headquarters of Russia's Black Sea Fleet in Crimea this week delivered a blow that might have crippled portions of the facility for weeks or possibly months to come. The landing ship Minsk and the Kilo 636.3 class submarine Rostov-on-Don were undergoing maintenance at the Sevmorzavod shipyard in the base's dry docks when the missiles hit during a predawn strike Wednesday. Open-source evidence, the ministry said, "indicates the Minsk has almost certainly been functionally destroyed, while the Rostov has likely suffered catastrophic damage." According to the ministry's report, any effort to get the submarine up and running would likely take many years and cost hundreds of millions of dollars. In addition, the British ministry said there is also "a realistic possibility" that the intricate task of removing the damaged vessels from the dry docks could put the docks out of commission for months and present Russia "with a significant challenge in sustaining fleet maintenance." According to the British ministry, the Rostov was one of the four Black Sea fleet's cruise-missile capable submarines that "have played a major role in striking Ukraine and projecting Russian power across the Black Sea and Eastern Mediterranean." Zelenskyy to visit White House Friday's developments precede Zelenskyy's anticipated arrival in Washington next week as the U.S. Congress continues to debate $21 billion more in aid to Ukraine to support its fight against Russia. U.S. lawmakers are increasingly divided whether to provide Ukraine with more aid. President Joe Biden is seeking $13 billion in military aid and $8 billion in humanitarian aid, but some Republican lawmakers oppose sending more funding. Zelenskyy is expected to meet with Biden next week at the White House after the U.N. General Assembly meeting in New York. Although Ukraine's counteroffensive push against the Russian invasion has been slower than expected, Zelenskyy celebrated Thursday what he described as Ukraine's destruction of a Russian air defense system on the annexed Crimean Peninsula. "A special mention should be made to the entire personnel of the Security Service of Ukraine as well as our naval forces," Zelenskyy said in his nightly video message. "The invaders' air defense system was destroyed. Very significant, well done!" Some information in this article came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian ambassador tells US to remove sanctions barriers to restore Black Sea grain deal Iran Press TV Saturday, 16 September 2023 4:12 PM Russian ambassador to Washington Anatoly Antonov has reiterated that if the United States truly wants to restore the Black Sea grain initiative it should remove the sanctions against Moscow. The door to restoring the Black Sea grain initiative is open, Antonov said on Saturday, adding, that the United States should switch to actually removing the sanctions barriers, and not duplicate empty insinuations. In July, Russia withdrew from the deal, which had been brokered by the United Nations and Turkey, blaming Kiev's attack on a Russian base in the Black Sea for the move. Antonov said that he recalled that the international grain negotiations and the eventual agreements included "not only the "Ukrainian" part, but also the no less important Memorandum of Understanding between the Russian Federation and the Secretariat of the United Nations on promoting Russian food products and fertilizers to the world markets." "Local officials, engaged in myth-making, are once again shifting from a sick head to a healthy one. Russia has repeatedly, primarily at the highest level, emphasized that the door to restoring the work of the 'Black Sea Initiative' remains open. It is only necessary to ensure the legitimate demands of the Russian Side for strict implementation of the interconnected Istanbul agreements," the diplomat said as quoted in the embassy's Telegram Channel. Earlier, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said that the United States now does not see the possibility of a prompt return to the Black Sea grain deal, as Moscow is changing its requirements in this area. According to Sullivan, this indicates a "basic lack of willingness on their part to allow grain to flow freely" to world markets. "The White House, if it really cares for the interests of those in need, should have long ago moved from duplicating empty insinuations to actually removing sanction barriers," Antonov noted. Russian President Vladimir Putin has already pointed out that Moscow is ready to return to the deal if the West meets its obligations with regard to the nation's own grain exports. Russia and Ukraine are two of the world's key agricultural producers. The two are influential players in the wheat, barley, maize, rapeseed, rapeseed oil, sunflower seed, and sunflower oil markets. More than 24.1 million tons have been exported under the Black Sea Grain Initiative, according to the United Nations. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukrainian minister vows more drones for attacks against Russian targets Iran Press TV Saturday, 16 September 2023 2:11 PM Ukraine is building a large number of drones to conduct more attacks against targets in Russia, according to the Ukrainian vice Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Transformation, Mykhailo Fedorov. "There will be more drones, more attacks, and fewer Russian ships. That's for sure," Fedorov said in an interview with Reuters on Friday. Fedorov posted a grainy video on social media on Thursday that appeared to be filmed from a vessel heading towards a much larger warship, followed by an explosion. Fedorov said at the time that the attack was the work of Ukrainian systems paid for by funds from a government-run crowdfunding platform that raises money for equipment including drones. The 32-year-old Ukrainian official, who has played a key role in the development of the country's drone industry with help from Elon Musk, said that production will include both unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). He also claimed Kiev's aerial drone production had increased by over 100 times in 2023 from last year. "I think it'll be an increase of around 120 to 140 times by the end of this year if you compare it to the previous one." According to the minister, Ukraine is testing AI systems that can locate targets several kilometers away and guide drones to them even if external communications are disrupted by electronic warfare measures. "We need AI, for instance, the technology for finding targets, just like how the Lancet (a Russian drone) operates, so that a target can be located under electronic warfare and destroyed." "At the moment it's all at the testing stage, but some drones we are buying use AI to recognize targets. In a forest, it can detect a target and recognize whether it's a person, tank, or a certain vehicle. These technologies are being used actively," Fedorov said. After months of silence, Ukraine has recently started to claim responsibility for attacks on Crimea, having previously not directly confirmed involvement in blasts at military targets there. This week, Ukraine has made several attacks using sea drones and missiles on Russia's Black Sea naval fleet in and around the Crimean peninsula. Russia acknowledged a Ukrainian missile attack that damaged a warship and a submarine this week in Sevastopol, Crimea. However, the Russian defense ministry said its anti-attack systems had repelled all the launched naval explosive-laden drones. Till now, multiple attacks targeting ships in the busy Sevastopol harbor have been launched with unmanned naval drones. On Oct. 29, 2022, USVs and UAVs undetected by Russian defense systems reportedly covered a distance of around 300km reaching the harbor and attacking Russia's naval base there. The attack was coordinated via a satellite communication system akin to Starlink. In an earlier attack, which experts say Ukraine had likely carried out with the help of US-led NATO forces, Russia's Black Sea Fleet lost its flagship, the guided missile cruiser Moskv, after being struck by an anti-ship missile. Kiev has also repeatedly targeted the 18km-long parallel bridges linking Crimea to the Russian mainland, doing damage to the structure which is used to transfer goods between the two sides. Moscow has warned the West against the use of more advanced weapons and flooding Kiev with arms and munitions, saying it will only prolong the conflict. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Romanian Farmers Ask Government To Continue Ban On Ukrainian Grain Products By RFE/RL September 16, 2023 A farmers' association in Romania has asked the government to continue a ban on Ukrainian grain and related products following a decision by the European Commission to lift restrictions, a move that would mirror actions announced by Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary. "If a country like Poland, which strongly and thoroughly supports Ukraine against Russian aggression, has taken such a unilateral decision after the September 15 deadline expired, we don't understand why Romania would be reserved about doing the same," the farmers' association said in a statement on September 16. "Our request in no way affects the transit of Ukrainian farm products through Romania to other destinations, as it is going on at present," the statement added. Russia's war against Kyiv and the disruption of Ukrainian grain exports through the Black Sea have resulted in the European Union becoming a major transit route and export destination for Ukrainian grain. In May, the European Commission agreed to allow Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia to ban domestic sales of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflower seeds, while permitting transit of such cargoes for export elsewhere. The five EU countries said the flood of products over the past 18 months had caused a slump in prices at home, hurting their farming sectors. However, the commission allowed the ban to expire on September 15, despite protests from four of the five nations and vows of their unilateral action to protect farmers. The parliament in Bulgaria, which previously supported the ban, on September 14 approved a decision to lift the restrictions, saying they risked raising prices for consumers. Sofia is seeking additional compensation from the commission for its farming sector in return for lifting the ban. Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary on September 15 announced unilateral bans despite expiration of the commission restrictions. Ukrainian grain shipments to Romania surpassed 9 million metric tons in the first eight months of 2023, arriving at the Black Sea port of Constanta, up from 8.6 million tons last year. Commission Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis on September 16 defended the decision to end the import ban on Ukrainian grain products, although he acknowledged that it was important to monitor the situation. "We need exceptional circumstances to justify this type of restriction, and at the moment we see there is no disruption or distortion in the market of these five member states," he said. With reporting by Reuters and dpa Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/romania-farmers-government-ban- ukraine-grain/32595774.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kyiv Presses Offensive In South, East As Zelenskiy Thanks Allies Latest 'Support Packages' By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service, RFE/RL's Russian Service September 16, 2023 Kyiv said it was continuing offensive operations against Russian forces in the east and south as alarms sounded throughout Ukraine on September 16, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy thanked Western and other allies for helping to make "significant progress" with "defense agreements and other support packages" for his embattled nation. Meanwhile, Russia rejected Ukrainian claims of retaking a strategic village in the Donetsk region as its full-scale invasion of Ukraine approached its 20th month, while the Kremlin also said defense forces had shot down two drones outside Moscow overnight. Separately, Washington confirmed plans for potentially crucial support-building meetings next week between Ukraine's visiting president and U.S. political leaders. Around midday, air alerts sounded in a number of regions of Ukraine as the country's military warned of the threat of ballistic attacks on population centers. The alarms blared in the capital, Kyiv, as well as in the Chernihiv, Cherkasy, Poltava, Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Mykolayiv, and Zaporizhzhya, and Odesa regions. A series of blasts was reported in the Kharkiv region, although information on possible casualties or damages was initially unavailable. The Ukrainian General Staff said on September 16 that its forces were conducting defensive operations in eastern and southern Ukraine and offensive operations around Melitopol and Bakhmut. It claimed "success" in the Klishchiyevka area of the Donetsk region. Ukrainian Digital Transformation Minister Mykhaylo Fedorov, who has participated in building up his country's advanced fighting abilities, warned Moscow's military that following recent attacks on Russian naval targets in the Black Sea, "There will be more drones, more attacks, and fewer Russian ships. That's for sure." Governor Roman Starovoit of Russia's Kursk region said on Telegram on September 16 that Ukrainian forces shelled a village in Russia's Kursk region, killing a 30-year-old civilian. He also said that 17 Ukrainian projectiles had struck a village in the Korenevsky District of the Kursk region, causing damage but no injuries. The Ukrainian side routinely avoids commenting on the increasing number of attacks inside Russian territory by unmanned aerial vehicles. Russian media outlet RBC said in late August that it had tallied more than 500 claims by Russian authorities of drone attacks inside Russia since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began 18 months ago. In 110 cases, casualties or damage were reported. Russia's Defense Ministry also rejected the Ukrainian military's claim from earlier in the week that Kyiv's forces had recaptured the village of Andriyivka, near Bakhmut in the Donetsk region, where a Russian-backed separatist group called the Donetsk People's Republic operates. "The enemy did not abandon plans to capture the city of Artyomovsk of the Donetsk People's Republic and continued to conduct assault operations...unsuccessfully trying to oust Russian troops from the population centers of Klishchiyivka and Andriyivka," the Russian ministry said in its daily briefing, according to Reuters. RFE/RL can't independently confirm battlefield claims by either side in areas of the heaviest fighting in Ukraine, and censorship and strictures on the media seriously hinder reporting in Russia. Reports have suggested that pressure from the United States and other allies has mounted on Ukraine to demonstrate success in the ongoing major counteroffensive it launched in June. Zelenskiy and other Ukrainian officials have pushed back on criticisms about the pace of the Ukrainian military's push to retake Russian-occupied areas of southern and eastern Ukraine. Early this month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced that he had replaced Ukraine's defense minister because "new approaches" were needed. In his nightly video address, Zelenskiy on September 16 thanked his nation's allies for their continued support In the fight against the Russian invasion. "This week, we've made significant progress in implementing existing defense agreements and other support packages," Zelenskiy said. "Denmark, thank you for the new defense package, which is already the 12th package. Equipment, ammunition, and missiles for our air defense," he said. "Germany, thank you for the new batch of military aid. Belgium, your participation in our pilot training is approved. Thank you! Norway, your decision to provide additional funding for Ukraine's recovery. It's crucial. Thank you!" He also singled out the United States and South Korea for their support. U.S. national-security adviser Jake Sullivan confirmed on September 15 that President Joe Biden will host Zelenskiy in Washington on September 21 for what will be their third meeting at the White House. Both Biden and Zelenskiy are slated to address the 78th session of the UN General Assembly next week, and Zelenskiy is expected to use his in-person appearance with U.S. and world leaders to rally support and plead for advanced weapons and ammunition to aid his country's ongoing counteroffensive to retake Ukrainian territory occupied by Russian forces. Sullivan also said Zelenskiy will visit the U.S. Capitol, where he can meet "congressional leaders from both parties to make the case that the United States has been a great friend and partner to Ukraine throughout this entire brutal war." The U.S. Congress is currently debating Biden's request to provide as much as $24 billion in military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine. U.S. Army General Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told reporters on September 16 that any help from Pyongyang is not likely to make a major difference in Moscow's war effort. "Would it have a huge difference? I'm skeptical of that," Milley said, adding that while any weapons assistance would be of concern, "I doubt that it would be decisive." With reporting by Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/kyiv-offense-air-raid-sirens- moscow-drones/32595463.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NATO Military Committee Chair Admits Kiev's Requests for Arms Exceed Alliance's Capacity Sputnik News 20230916 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Chair of the NATO Military Committee Adm. Rob Bauer on Saturday admitted that Ukraine's requests for weapons and ammunition, as well as the volume of defense production used in Ukraine, are "huge" and exceed the production capabilities of the alliance. "The volume of the weapons and the ammunition that Ukraine requires is huge ... The scale and the volume of what is used is going beyond our production capacity," Bauer said at a press conference in Norway. The Military Committee Chair also said that NATO countries that decide to supply weapons and ammunition to Ukraine have to think about the risks for their own security. "When they think about giving away weapons or ammunition, they have to think on the decision itself, 'Am I giving away?'. Second, what is the risk that I take against my own readiness in NATO, in my own country," Bauer said. In this regard, the military official called on the NATO countries to address issues of increasing production capacity in the defense sector more quickly and efficiently. Moscow has condemned foreign military supplies to Ukraine. In April 2022, Russia sent a diplomatic note to all NATO countries on the issue of arms supplies to Ukraine. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has warned that any cargo containing weapons for Ukraine will become a legitimate target for Russia. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Belgium to Hand Over to Ukraine 10 Decommissioned M113 Armored Personnel Carriers Sputnik News 20230916 BRUSSELS (Sputnik) - Belgium will soon hand over to Ukraine ten decommissioned US-made M113 tracked armored personnel carriers, which have been repaired and are ready for shipment, Belgian Defense Minister Ludivine Dedonder said. "Today I can announce that the first batch of ten M113 vehicles has been prepared and will be sent to Ukraine as soon as possible," the minister said in a written statement. Overall, Belgium plans to transfer to Ukraine 40 M113 APCs, which were decommissioned by the Belgian army more than 10 years ago. Belgium, jointly with the Netherlands and Luxembourg, repairs and brings this equipment into working condition for subsequent transfer to Ukraine. The delivery will cost the Belgian budget 11 million euros ($11.7 million). A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Slovakia Extends Ban on Ukrainian Grain Imports Until End of 2023 Sputnik News 20230916 BRATISLAVA (Sputnik) - Slovakia has extended a ban on imports of Ukrainian grain until the end of 2023, the country's government said on Saturday. "The Slovak government has extended the ban on imports of wheat, corn, rapeseed and sunflower seeds from Ukraine until the end of this year," the government said in a statement. Meanwhile, Polish Agriculture Minister Robert Telus said the bans on Ukrainian grain imports were in Kiev's interest. "In February this year, 114,000 tonnes of grain passed through Poland in transit, in March it was 120,000 tonnes, and in June, when we introduced restrictions, it was 260,000 tons," Telus said. The same trend is observed in all countries bordering Ukraine, he said, adding that the data show that grain transit is higher during import restrictions. On September 15, the European Commission announced it would lift a ban on duty-free Ukrainian grain imports to five neighboring EU countries and demand that Kiev introduce export controls. On the same day, Poland introduced an indefinite ban on Ukrainian grain imports. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Army Repels 34 Attacks by Ukrainian Troops in Artemovsk Direction Sputnik News 20230916 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Russian armed forces repelled 34 attacks by the Ukrainian military in the Artemovsk (Bakhmut) direction over the past week, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Saturday, adding that more than 1,700 Ukrainian servicepeople were killed or injured in the area during the period. "Over the past week in this [Bakhmut*] direction, units of the Southern group repelled 34 attacks by Ukrainian units, with the enemy losing more than 1,700 servicepeople, who were killed and wounded, as well as 16 tanks and other armored combat vehicles, 34 vehicles and 12 field artillery pieces," the ministry said in a statement. In addition, the Russian armed forces destroyed five Ukrainian military aircraft at an airport near the Ukrainian city of Krivoi Rog, the ministry added. At the same time, Russian air defense systems shot down 270 Ukrainian drones and 19 HIMARS MLRS missiles in the past week, the ministry said, adding that the naval aviation and ships of the Russian Black Sea Fleet destroyed 12 unmanned boats and three boats with Ukrainian landing groups in the Black Sea. Besides, the Russian armed forces repelled eight attacks of the Ukrainian army in the direction of South Donetsk in the past seven days, as a result of which over 1,100 Ukrainian servicepeople were killed or wounded. About 15 armored vehicles, 22 vehicles and seven artillery pieces were destroyed. In the Zaporozhye direction, the Russian army repelled 18 attacks by the Ukrainian military. *In 2015, Artemovsk was renamed as Bakhmut as part of the Kiev regime's "de-communization" policies and the overall bid to distance it from Russia and shared Russo-Ukrainian history. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Our task is to provide Ukraine with all the opportunities to produce weapons and ammunition to have reliable protection against aggression - address of the President President of Ukraine 16 September 2023 - 18:50 I wish you good health, dear Ukrainian men and women! Today is a meaningful day - we are preparing for a strong second half of September. Strong in terms of our international work with partners and the decisions we are implementing here in Ukraine. Dozens of negotiations have already been planned, and there is a clear schedule of meetings. There will also be clear and specific results. Another important point to mention. We are continuing to prepare for the Defense Industries Forum, the first event of its kind to take place in Ukraine. It will happen this autumn. Interest in the Forum is very high. This fully reflects Ukraine's strength and potential - our ability to defend ourselves and help other countries preserve freedom and international order... Already, 86 leading defense companies from around the world - representing 21 countries - have confirmed their participation in the Forum. Our task is absolutely clear - to provide Ukraine with all the opportunities to produce weapons and ammunition, to provide modern technology to have reliable protection against any form of aggression. Moreover, of course, to share our defense experience among allies and partners. The world must be stronger than any threat to life from aggressors or terrorists. This week, we have made significant progress in implementing existing defense agreements and other support packages. Denmark - thank you for the new defense package, which is already the 12th package. Equipment, ammunition, and missiles for our air defense. Germany - thank you for the new batch of military aid. Belgium - your participation in our pilot training is approved. Thank you! Norway - your decision to provide additional funding for Ukraine's recovery. It's crucial. Thank you! South Korea - thank you for the new financial support agreement! The United States - the new sanctions decision to limit Russia's ability to engage in terror. Thank you! And, of course, our warriors. All brigades and units currently in combat. Kharkiv, Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson regions. And those who have already achieved important results for Ukraine this week, and those who, I am confident, are preparing to contribute to Ukraine's success. Thank you! We are all proud of our warriors and are committed to strengthening our defense and security forces! Glory to Ukraine! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine can count on support of the Netherlands in returning home Ukrainian children forcibly deported to Russia - Andriy Yermak based on the results of the visit of the Ukrainian delegation to the Netherlands within Bring Kids Back UA project President of Ukraine 16 September 2023 - 00:12 Six children who returned to Ukraine after being forcibly deported by Russia met with European leaders in The Hague to tell their stories in person and draw attention to Russia's violations of children's rights. The children were accompanied by a Ukrainian delegation, which included Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights Dmytro Lubinets, President's Commissioner for Children's Rights and Children's Rehabilitation Daria Herasymchuk, Ambassador of Ukraine to the Netherlands Oleksandr Karasevych, and co-founder of the Orphans Feeding Foundation Mariam Lambert. The two-day event in the Netherlands was organized within the framework of the Bring Kids Back UA action plan approved by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, part of which is the Stolen Voices information campaign, with the support of the Orphans Feeding Foundation. As part of its mission, the Ukrainian delegation provided information on the forced displacement of Ukrainian children by the Russian Federation, including the mechanisms behind Russia's international crime. Representatives of the Dutch side personally heard the terrible stories of the forced deportation of six children. The meetings were held by Mrs. Hanke Bruins Slot, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, and representatives of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Dutch Parliament. Speaking with the Ukrainian delegation, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands Hanke Bruins Slot announced the intention of the Netherlands to support Ukraine in a new project on family reunification using DNA. Using express DNA tests, the Netherlands aims to help Ukraine create a DNA database that will allow to quickly establishing the family ties of children abducted by Russia and facilitate their return to their families as soon as possible. "The full-scale invasion of Russia into Ukraine has led to massive violations of fundamental rights and the spread of illegal deportation and abduction of our children," Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak said. "Our goal is to completely stop the forcible deportation of our children to Russia and take all necessary steps for their safe return home. Ukraine needs the support of allies and partners to return every child to their homeland. Today, these are our Ukrainian children, tomorrow they could be yours," the head of the Office of the President added. "No one in the world has the right to destroy a peaceful and happy childhood. Let me remind you that only 386 children were returned to Ukraine, and over 19,500 children are waiting for our help. It is necessary to respond urgently to this terrible situation in a joint and effective way," Advisor, President's Commissioner for Children's Rights and Children's Rehabilitation, coordinator of Bring Kids Back UA Daria Herasymchuk. Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights Dmytro Lubinets stated: "We are in the process of developing a mechanism for the return of Ukrainian children. This involves verifying and updating data on deported children, documenting crimes committed by Russia, and proposing practical actions for individual countries to facilitate the return of specific children or groups of children. We continue to identify new cases of forced displacement and deportation of Ukrainian children by the Russian Federation. Those responsible will be held accountable for their actions under the law, and Ukrainian children will be reunited with their families." "The Orphans Feeding Foundation has been supporting Ukraine since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, and supporting Bring Kids Back UA is our absolute priority. We are cooperating with the Office of the President of Ukraine and the Ombudsman of Ukraine to find and return the children, and to raise awareness on this topic so that these crimes are recognized by international institutions. Our goal is to make the voices of Ukrainian children heard," Mariam Lambert, co-founder of the Orphans Feeding Foundation, said. "Any country, organization or individual can join the implementation of the Bring Kids Back UA initiative within the framework of the action plan. We are grateful to many of our friends in the Netherlands who joined the mission of protecting the rights of Ukrainian children and reuniting them with their families. After the productive meetings in The Hague, we are confident that this circle of friends will expand," Advisor to the Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Chief Operating Officer of Bring Kids Back UA Daria Zarivna said. You can follow the Bring Kids Back UA project on its Telegram channel. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine, Russia Both Claim Control of Village Near Bakhmut By VOA News September 16, 2023 Ukrainian forces made progress Saturday in their offensive against Russian troops in the east and south, a military spokesperson said, as the two militaries disputed who controlled the village of Andriivka. General Oleksandr Syrskyi, commander of Ukraine's land forces, posted a video to Telegram showing a scorched, desolate landscape that he said proved his forces had captured the village. Andriivka is unrecognizable, a correspondent for Ukraine's Hromadske radio said. It is "so badly destroyed that soldiers do not even know where to place the pole with the Ukrainian flag," Yanina Lvutina said on the radio's website. Ukraine considers Andriivka crucial to regaining the nearby, also-destroyed city of Bakhmut. Russia's Defense Ministry disputed Ukraine's claim to Andriivka. Reuters was unable to verify either battlefield report. Meanwhile, airstrike alarms sounded at midday throughout Ukraine as the country's military warned of the threat of ballistic attacks on population centers, including Kyiv, Chernihiv, Kharkiv, and the Zaporizhzhia, and Odesa regions. A series of blasts were reported in the Kharkiv region, although information on casualties or damage was not immediately available. Also Saturday, Digital Transformation Minister Mykhailo Fedorov told Reuters that Ukraine's drone production has increased by more than 100 times since last year. Ukraine is also testing artificial intelligence systems, he said, that can detect targets kilometers away, as well as guide drones despite disruptions from electronic warfare measures. "There will be more drones, more attacks, and fewer Russian ships. That's for sure," he said, noting the recent attacks on Russian naval targets in the Black Sea. 'We've made significant progress' In his nightly video address on Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked his nation's allies for their continued support in the fight against the Russian invasion. "This week, we've made significant progress in implementing existing defense agreements and other support packages," he said. "Denmark, thank you for the new defense package, which is already the 12th package. Equipment, ammunition, and missiles for our air defense," he said. "Germany, thank you for the new batch of military aid. Belgium, your participation in our pilot training is approved. Thank you! Norway, your decision to provide additional funding for Ukraine's recovery. It's crucial. Thank you!" He also singled out the United States and South Korea for their support. President Joe Biden will host Zelenskyy in Washington on Thursday in their third meeting at the White House. British warn of cruise missiles Finally, in its daily intelligence update Saturday, the British Defense Ministry warned of the "realistic possibility" that Russia will resume using air-launched cruise missiles against Ukrainian infrastructure targets in the winter. The ministry said Russia has likely created a "significant stockpile" of the missiles, since open-source reports indicate that Russia began reducing its use of the missiles in April. The report also said the missiles "were at the heart" of most strike missions that Russia launched against Ukraine's national energy infrastructure between last October and March. They allowed Russia to release munitions "from deep within Russian territory." Some information in this article came from Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukrainian Minister: Future Holds 'More Drones ... Fewer Russian Ships' By VOA News September 16, 2023 A Ukrainian minister told Reuters that the future of Ukraine's battle against Russia holds "more drones, more attacks and fewer Russian ships." Digital Transformation Minister Mykhailo Fedorov said Ukraine's drone production has increased by more than 100 times since last year. Fedorov also told the news agency that Ukraine is testing artificial intelligence systems that can detect targets kilometers away, as well as guide drones despite disruptions from electronic warfare measures. Meanwhile, the British Defense Ministry, in its daily intelligence update on Ukraine, said there is a "realistic possibility" that Russia will resume using air-launched cruise missiles against Ukrainian infrastructure targets in the winter. The ministry's update said that Russia has likely created a "significant stockpile" of the missiles, since open-source reports indicate that Russia began reducing its use of the missiles in April. "Russian leaders have highlighted efforts to increase the rate of cruise missile production," the ministry said. The report also said the missiles "were at the heart" of most strike missions that Russia launched against Ukraine's national energy infrastructure between last October and March. They allowed Russia to release munitions "from deep within Russian territory." U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock spoke Friday in Washington, and both reiterated their long-term support for Ukraine in its war against Russia. Speaking to reporters following their talks, Blinken said Germany and the U.S., along with dozens of other nations around the world, are committed to providing military, economic and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. He said they also discussed Ukraine's long-term ability not only to survive but to thrive following Russia's invasion. Baerbock echoed Blinken's remarks, saying support for Ukraine goes beyond arms deliveries to include humanitarian issues and repairing infrastructure. She said she discussed with Blinken how the U.S. and Germany can coordinate their assistance to Ukraine even more closely. The two top diplomats were asked about Ukraine's ongoing requests for long-range missile systems that could reach deep into Russia and the West's reluctance to provide them. Baerbock said Germany and other NATO allies have told Ukraine from the beginning of Russia's invasion that arms supplies would be limited to Ukraine's self-defense and reclaiming territory within Ukraine. The German foreign minister has been in the United States much of this week. She traveled to Texas on Tuesday and Wednesday, visiting an air base where German pilots are trained. She met Thursday with U.S. lawmakers to discuss their continued support for Ukraine. Ukraine grain shipments Blinken said he and Baerbock also discussed the Black Sea Grain Initiative, which Russia ended in July, and alternatives to getting grain out of Ukraine and to developing nations that need it. Following a meeting on Friday in Bucharest with Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov, Romanian Transport Minister Sorin Grindeanu said the nation planned to double the monthly transit capacity for Ukrainian grain through its Constanta port to 4 million metric tons in the coming months. Speaking at a joint news conference, Kubrakov said they hope to double the port's capacity by the beginning of October, which could help Ukraine solve at least 50% of its export issues. Ukraine military advances Ukraine's military said Friday it has recaptured the village of Andriivka, about 10 kilometers (6 miles) south of the key front-line, Russian-occupied city of Bakhmut, following intense battles with Russian troops. The latest victory in Ukraine's protracted, multipronged counteroffensive comes just days ahead of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's expected visit to Washington. Also Friday, Britain's Defense Ministry confirmed that a missile strike targeting the naval headquarters of Russia's Black Sea fleet in Crimea earlier this week delivered a blow that may have crippled portions of the facility for weeks or possibly months to come. The landing ship Minsk and the Kilo 636.3 class submarine Rostov-on-Don were undergoing maintenance at the Sevmorzavod shipyard in the base's dry docks when the missiles hit during a predawn strike Wednesday. Open-source evidence, the ministry said, "indicates the Minsk has almost certainly been functionally destroyed, while the Rostov has likely suffered catastrophic damage." According to the ministry's report, any effort to get the submarine up and running would likely take many years and cost hundreds of millions of dollars. In addition, the British ministry said there is also "a realistic possibility" that the intricate task of removing the damaged vessels from the dry docks could put the docks out of commission for months and present Russia "with a significant challenge in sustaining fleet maintenance." According to the British ministry, the Rostov was one of the four Black Sea fleet's cruise-missile capable submarines that "have played a major role in striking Ukraine and projecting Russian power across the Black Sea and Eastern Mediterranean." Zelenskyy White House visit Friday's developments precede Zelenskyy's anticipated arrival in Washington next week as the U.S. Congress continues to debate $21 billion more in aid to Ukraine to support its fight against Russia. U.S. lawmakers are increasingly divided over whether to provide Ukraine with more aid. President Joe Biden is seeking $13 billion in military aid and $8 billion in humanitarian aid, but some Republican lawmakers oppose sending more aid to Ukraine. Zelenskyy is expected to meet with Biden next week at the White House after the U.N. General Assembly meeting in New York. Although Ukraine's counteroffensive push against the Russian invasion has been slower than expected, Zelenskyy celebrated Thursday what he described as Ukraine's destruction of a Russian air defense system on the annexed Crimean Peninsula. "A special mention should be made to the entire personnel of the Security Service of Ukraine as well as our naval forces," Zelenskyy said in his nightly video message. "The invaders' air defense system was destroyed. Very significant, well done!" Some information in this article came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Canada to contribute $33 million to British-led partnership delivering high priority air defence equipment to Ukraine National Defence News release September 17, 2023 - Lydd, United Kingdom - National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces Today, the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, announced that Canada will contribute to the United Kingdom-led partnership that is delivering high priority air defence equipment to Ukraine. This initiative was established in June 2023 by several countries including Denmark, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States, and will help provide urgently needed air defence missiles to help Ukraine defend against Russia's missile and drone attacks. Canada will contribute $33 million (CAD) to the partnership, which is providing Ukraine with hundreds of short- and medium-range air defence missiles and associated systems required to protect Ukraine's critical national infrastructure. This donation is funded as part of the $500 million in new funding for military assistance for Ukraine announced in Kyiv, Ukraine by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in June 2023. Minister Blair made this announcement during his visit to Lydd Military Training Camp, the home of Canada's Operation UNIFIER in the UK, and the UK's own Operation INTERFLEX, training missions that equip Ukrainian recruits with the tools that they need to defend themselves. Approximately 170 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members are deployed to the UK under Operation UNIFIER. During his visit, Minister Blair held a town hall with CAF members, and observed several Canadian-led training activities for Ukrainian recruits. Since August 2022, CAF personnel deployed in the UK have trained approximately 2,600 Armed Forces of Ukraine recruits in collaboration with the UK's Operation INTERFLEX. The Canadian-led courses last several weeks and focus on topics such as weapons handling, battlefield first aid, fieldcraft, patrol tactics, and the Law of Armed Conflict. Under Operation UNIFIER, Canada has trained more than 38,000 Ukrainian personnel since 2015. Canada will continue working closely with allies and partners to help Ukraine respond to its most urgent defence needs, including air defence. Quotes "During my visit to Lydd Military Training Camp, I witnessed first-hand how Canadian Armed Forces members are providing Ukrainian recruits with the skills that they need to defend their country's sovereignty. Together, Canada and the United Kingdom are standing with Ukraine, as it fights to defend itself against Russia's illegal and unjustifiable invasion. Canada commends the courage and strength of Ukrainians, and we will continue to support them with the comprehensive military aid that they need to fight and win." The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence Quick facts The defence and security relationship between Canada and the UK is rooted in history and fostered by the fact that Canada and the UK are Allies in NATO and engage in close cooperation in international organizations, including the United Nations and the Commonwealth, among others. The deep bond between Canada and the UK has been forged in peace and war, notably through the two World Wars, Korea, and in almost every major conflict for more than a century, including Afghanistan and Libya. More than 300 Canadian Armed Forces members are now deployed under Op UNIFER in various roles such as the provision and coordination of training, national command support, and the facilitation and delivery of military donations to Ukraine in coordination with our Allies and partners. This includes 170 members deployed to the UK. Since the beginning of 2022, Canada has committed over $8 billion in aid to Ukraine, including over $1.8 billion in military assistance. This includes AIM-7 missiles, 155mm and 105mm artillery ammunition, Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks and an armoured recovery vehicle, a National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) with associated munitions, 39 armoured combat support vehicles, anti-tank weapons, small arms, M777 howitzers and associated ammunition, high-resolution drone cameras, winter clothing, and more. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Lavrov: US fighting Ukraine war against Russia Iran Press TV Sunday, 17 September 2023 4:04 PM Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov says the United States is fighting the Ukraine war against Russia. "No matter what it says, it [the US] controls this war. It supplies weapons, munition, intelligence information, [and] data from satellites. It is pursuing a war against us," the Russian minister said in an interview with Russia-1 television channel on Sunday. Lavrov added that possible supplies of longer-range missiles to Kiev by Western countries will not change the reality of what is going on in Ukraine. "The fact that it will not change the essence of what is going on in Ukraine is obvious. While what is going on is that Ukraine has been prepared, has long been prepared for inflicting strategic defeat to Russia using its hands and its bodies," he said. Lavrov's comments came amid heightened tensions between Russia and Western countries, with the US and its allies emphasizing their support for Kiev. Earlier in September, US media reported that the Biden administration was looking at supplying Ukraine with Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) with a range of up to 190 miles, capable of striking deep into Russian territory, this fall to boost Ukraine's counteroffensive. Meanwhile, Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba had reported on Thursday "progress" in the matter of the US and Germany supplying Kiev with ATACMS and Taurus long-range missiles. "We are very actively engaged in this. The President holds negotiations or meetings every day to speed up the delivery of what has already been promised and to secure new commitments from partners for sending us weapons," Kuleba said. The US and its allies began pouring weapons and ammunition into Ukraine shortly after Russia launched its military operation in the country in February 2022. Russia has time and again warned that the continued supply of Western arms and munitions to the Ukrainian military would only prolong the war, add to losses, and exacerbate the sufferings of the Ukrainian nation. The White House recently confirmed that the administration of US President Joe Biden has so far spent more than $100 billion on the war in Ukraine despite repeated warnings from Moscow. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukrainian Forces Reportedly Retake New Village In Effort To Liberate Bakhmut By RFE/RL's Russian Service, RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service September 17, 2023 Ukrainian forces appear to have recaptured the key village of Klishchiyivka as part of their drive to liberate the symbolic eastern town of Bakhmut in a day marked by intensified drone and missile attacks by both sides. A photo posted on September 17 on Telegram by Andriy Yermak, Ukraine's presidential chief of staff, reportedly shows Ukrainian soldiers holding a flag in the mostly destroyed village, which is near already taken Andriyivka, just a few kilometers from Bakhmut. "Ukraine always takes back its own," Yermak wrote along with the photo. Ukrainian media reported that the soldiers are standing in front of a known church in Klishchiyivka, which had a prewar population of just more than 500 people. General Oleksandr Syrskiy, commander of Ukraine's ground forces, later confirmed that Ukrainian forces had recaptured the village, saying it "was cleared of the Russians and liberated." Russian officials have denied recent claims of gains by Ukrainian forces, and the reports could not be independently verified. Kyiv earlier announced its forces had recaptured Andriyivka. If both villages are retaken, it could allow Ukraine's troops to attack Bakhmut from the north and south, allowing them to liberate the ruined town that was captured by Russia after a bloody monthslong battle and hailed by the Kremlin as a major victory at the time. The now-departed Russian Wagner mercenary group played a key role in capturing Bakhmut from Ukrainian forces. The action comes as Kyiv said Russia launched missile and drone attacks early on September 17, targeting mainly the southern parts of the Odesa region as Moscow and other regions of Russia reported Ukrainian drone strikes. Ukraine in recent days has launched a series of strikes on Russian military targets in occupied Crimea and the Russian Navy Black Sea Fleet's facilities. Attacks deep inside Russia, far from the front lines, have also increased, with Moscow's mayor saying at least two drones were shot down in the capital region early on September 17. Meanwhile, Russian attacks on Ukrainian port infrastructure are continuing, with Ukraine reporting on September 17 that an agricultural facility in the southern Odesa region had been hit in a Russian aerial attack. Russia launched six Iranian Shahed drones and 10 cruise missiles, with Ukraine's forces destroying six drones and six missiles before they hit their target, the Ukrainian Air Force said. "Fighter aircraft, anti-aircraft missile units, mobile fire groups, and other means of attack were involved in repelling the air attack," the air force said. The strike in Odesa comes a day after Kyiv said two cargo vessels arrived there to use a temporary corridor to sail into Black Sea ports and load grain for African and Asian markets. Ukraine last month announced a "humanitarian corridor" in the Black Sea to allow ships to sail from its ports and to circumvent a de facto blockade after Russia abandoned a deal to let Kyiv export grain. Elsewhere, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Telegram that air-defense systems had destroyed six drones over western, Russian-occupied Crimea. It did not say whether there had been any damage or casualties on the peninsula, which Russia illegally annexed in 2014 in a move widely condemned internationally. In the Moscow region, a drone was destroyed over the Istra district and another over the Ramensky district, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said on Telegram, adding there were no casualties or damage from drone debris. At least 30 flights were delayed and six canceled at Moscow's three major airports, Vnukovo, Domodedovo, and Sheremetyevo, Russian state news agencies said. In southwestern Russia, a Ukrainian drone damaged an oil depot early on September 17, sparking a fire at a fuel tank that was later extinguished, the regional governor said. "There are no casualties. All emergency services are working on the territory of the facility," the governor of the Oryol region, Andrei Klychkov, said on Telegram. Also on September 17, Russia's Defense Ministry said its forces had carried out a missile strike on a Ukrainian repair plant for armored vehicles in Kharkiv, a major city in Ukraine's northeast. The ministry did not provide further details and Kyiv has not yet commented. U.S. national-security adviser Jake Sullivan confirmed on September 15 that President Joe Biden will host Zelenskiy in Washington on September 21 for what will be their third meeting at the White House. Both Biden and Zelenskiy are slated to address the 78th session of the UN General Assembly next week, and Zelenskiy is expected to use his in-person appearance with U.S. and world leaders to rally support and plead for advanced weapons and ammunition to aid his country's ongoing counteroffensive to retake Ukrainian territory occupied by Russian forces. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-targets-ukraine- agriculture-moscow-drones/32596260.html Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Canada to Allocate $24Mln for Supply of Air Defense Systems to Ukraine Sputnik News 20230917 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Canada will contribute 33 million Canadian dollars ($24.4 million) to a UK-led international partnership to provide air defense systems to Ukraine, the Canadian government said on Sunday. "Canada will contribute $33 million (CAD) to the partnership, which is providing Ukraine with hundreds of short- and medium-range air defense missiles and associated systems required to protect Ukraine's critical national infrastructure," the government said in a statement. The statement added that this contribution would be part of the $500 million funding, announced in June by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during his visit to Kiev. The partnership was created in June 2023 by several countries, including Denmark, the Netherlands, the United States and the United Kingdom to provide air defense missiles to Ukraine, the statement said. Western allies began pouring weapons and ammunition into Ukraine shortly after Russia launched its military operation in the country in February 2022. The Kremlin has repeatedly warned against further escalation leading to NATO's direct involvement in the conflict. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Top US General Doubts Ukraine's Counteroffensive to Achieve Its Goals Quickly Sputnik News 20230917 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - In an exclusive interview with an American broadcaster, US Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley said that Ukraine's counteroffensive "will take a considerable length of time," refusing to speculate on how long it might take for Kiev to achieve its goals. "This offensive, although significant, has operational and tactical objectives that are limited in the sense that they do not, even if they are fully achieved, they do not completely kick out all the Russians, which is the broader strategic objective that [Ukrainian] President [Volodymyr] Zelensky have" Milley said in an interview with a American broadcaster. The military official refused to speculate on how long it might take Ukraine to achieve its goals, noting that it "will take a considerable length of time." In addition, Milley described Ukraine's ongoing counteroffensive as "long, hard, bloody." Russia began its military operation in Ukraine in February 2022. Ukraine launched its latest counteroffensive in early June. Three months later, Russian President Vladimir Putin said the Ukrainian counteroffensive had failed, with Ukraine suffering 71,000 casualties. Several Western officials also admitted that the Ukrainian counteroffensive had not been successful. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Military Repels 6 Attacks in Donetsk Direction, Kiev Loses 350 Troops Sputnik News 20230917 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Russian army repelled six attacks by the Ukrainian armed forces in the Donetsk and South Donetsk direction over the past 24 hours, with Kiev losing up to 350 servicepeople, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Sunday. "In the South Donetsk direction, three attacks by assault groups of the 35th and 36th brigades of the Ukrainian marines in the areas of Staromaiorskoe of the Donetsk People's Republic [DPR] and Priytnoe of the Zaporozhye Region were repelled during the day by courageous actions of the units of the Vostok group of forces in cooperation with aviation and artillery," the ministry said. In the Donetsk direction, the units of the Southern group of forces, together with aviation and artillery, repulsed three attacks of assault groups of the 53rd motorized infantry brigade and the 79th airborne assault brigade of the Ukrainian army near the Russian-controlled village of Marinka in the DPR, the ministry said. Kiev has lost up to 180 servicepeople, the ministry added. Russian aviation and artillery have also hit the shops of the Kharkov armored plant, where Ukrainian tanks were being repaired, as well as Ukrainian command and observation posts were located, the ministry said. At the same time, in the Zaporozhye direction, Russian units repelled an attack by an assault group of the 47th mechanized brigade of the Ukrainian armed forces near the Russian-controlled village of Robotynoe, causing Kiev to lose up to 140 servicepeople, a US-made Bradley infantry fighting vehicle and four vehicles, the ministry said. In addition, Russian air defense systems shot down 28 Ukrainian drones, two JDAM aerial bombs, one HARM shell and one HIMARS missile over the past 24 hours, the defense ministry said. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Air Defense Destroys Another Ukrainian Drone Over Moscow Region - Mayor Sputnik News 20230917 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russian air defense systems destroyed over the Moscow Region another Ukrainian drone attempting to attack the Russian capital, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said on Sunday. "Another drone that tried to carry out an attack on Moscow was shot down tonight by air defense forces in the Ramensky District of the Moscow Region. According to preliminary data, there are also no damages or casualties after the fall of the debris," Sobyanin said on Telegram. At the same time, the Russian Defense Ministry said that air defense also shot down a Ukrainian fixed-wing drone over the Domodedovsky District of the Moscow Region. The attack was one of several thwarted by Russian air defenses across the Russia and Crimea. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Air Defense Prevents Drone Attacks on Moscow, Crimea Sputnik News 20230917 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Russian air defense forces repelled a drone attack on the Russian capital, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said on Sunday. "Tonight, air defense repelled a drone attack on Moscow in the city district of Istra. According to preliminary data, there were no destruction or casualties at the site where the debris fell," Sobyanin said on Telegram. The Russian Defense Ministry noted that the air defense shot down a Ukrainian fixed-wing drone. Meanwhile, the Defense Ministry said in a separate statement that it thwarted several drone attacks by Ukrainian forces from several directions Crimea. The first involved two drones on the western coast of Crimea. "On September 17, at about 01:15 Moscow time [22:15 GMT], an attempt by the Kiev regime to carry out a terrorist drone attack on targets on the territory of the Russian Federation was thwarted. Air defense systems destroyed two Ukrainian fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles off the western coast of the Crimean peninsula," the ministry said. Less than an hour later, more attacks were attempted using Ukrainian drones on the northwestern and eastern coasts. They were also defeated. "From 01:45 to 02:20 Moscow time [22:45-23:20 GMT], another terrorist attack by the Kiev regime on sites on the territory of the Russian Federation was prevented. Air defense systems destroyed four Ukrainian fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles over the northwestern and eastern coasts of the Crimean peninsula," the ministry said. Later, Russian air defenses stopped another attempted attack in Moscow. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address West Believes Ukraine Should Shift From Attacking to Holding Ground in October - Reports Sputnik News 20230917 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Ukraine needs to shift from attempting offensive operations against the Russian armed forces to holding positions in the second half of October due to weather conditions, media reported on Sunday, citing a Western defense official. Weather conditions will worsen before November, with the terrain becoming too muddy, making it difficult for heavy armored equipment to move quickly, so Ukrainian forces should focus on protecting their infrastructure from Russian drones and missiles during the winter, the defense official said. Russia began its military operation in Ukraine in February 2022. Ukraine launched its latest counteroffensive in early June. Three months later, Russian President Vladimir Putin said the Ukrainian counteroffensive had failed, with Ukraine suffering 71,000 casualties. Several Western officials also admitted that the Ukrainian counteroffensive had not been successful. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NATO Chief: 'We Must Prepare Ourselves for a Long War in Ukraine' By VOA News September 17, 2023 "We must prepare ourselves for a long war in Ukraine," NATO secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg said in an interview with Germany's Funke media group published Sunday. "Most wars last longer than expected when they first begin," he said. "We are all wishing for a quick peace," Stoltenberg said, "but at the same time, we must recognize if [Ukrainian] President [Volodymyr] Zelenskyy and the Ukrainians stop fighting, their country will no longer exist." Meanwhile, Russia targeted Ukraine's Odesa region early Sunday with a combined drone and missile attack, hitting an agricultural facility, Ukraine's Air Forces said on the Telegram messaging app. The extent of the damage was not immediately clear. Also Sunday, Ukraine launched a drone attack on Crimea and Moscow. A regional Crimean official said a drone hit a fuel tank, causing a fire that was extinguished. The drones over Moscow interfered with air traffic over the capital. The British Defense Ministry said Sunday in its daily intelligence update on Russia's invasion of Ukraine that Russia is "likely" reinforcing its defenses around the occupied town of Tokmak in southern Ukraine. The town is 16 kilometers from the front line and Tokmak is being outfitted to become a "lynchpin" of Russia's second main line of defenses. Attention to the town's defenses "likely indicates Russia's growing concern about Ukrainian tactical penetrations of the main defensive line to the north." Some information for this report came from Agence France-Presse and Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NEW YORK, Sept. 17, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Tengjun Biotechnology Corp. (Tengiun or the Company) (OTCMKTS: TJBH). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at newaction@pomlaw.com or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980. The investigation concerns whether Tengiun and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices. [Click here for information about joining the class action] On September 5, 2023, Tengjun announced that its previous financial statements on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022, should no longer be relied upon due to accounting methodology errors in such financial statements and that the Board deems it advisable and in the best interests of the Company to restate the financial statements by amending its annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 as soon as reasonably practicable. On this news, Tengjuns American Depositary Share (ADS) price fell $3.15 per ADS, or 17.64%, to close at $14.71 per ADS on September 5, 2023. Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered billions of dollars in damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com . Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. NEWARK, Del, Sept. 17, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The online food delivery services market size is anticipated to advance, attaining a value of US$ 41.94 billion in 2023. According to a market analysis of online on-demand food delivery services, usage is expected to develop at a CAGR of 10% until 2033. By 2033, the online food delivery services market is projected to reach a value of US$ 101.32 billion at the current pace of growth. Customers are moving online rapidly, which has led to exponential expansion in the e-commerce sector. These changes in consumer shopping patterns result from various factors, some of which are industry or nation-specific, while others are the result of global trends. Mobile Internet and 5G Reshape the Online Food Delivery Landscape Customers now have access to an array of various applications, including online meal delivery services, owing to improved network connectivity and an upsurge in cell phones. Users of smartphones can easily make orders with their chosen eateries by browsing a list of establishments. Even the most isolated regions now have smartphones. The opinions of online ordering have changed as a result of how simple it is to set up meal delivery apps on smartphones. Dive into the Booming Online Food Delivery Services Market with Our Sample Report: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-11068 Globally, the number of people using mobile internet has significantly increased. Rapid network infrastructure development has increased network connectivity across developing nations, making remote access to mobile applications possible. The introduction of 5G technology enables faster surfing speeds to improve the online ordering experience and create fresh potential for food delivery services online market expansion. Challenges and Opportunities with Commission Rates for Online Food Delivery Services Restaurants are significantly constrained by the commission fees imposed by delivery platforms, which can be anywhere between 15 and 30% of the cost of a meal. These commissions' controversial nature has been highlighted by certain American governments placing caps on them. Platforms have experimented with different restaurant commission rates and terms to allay these worries, but the results are still up in the air. The spread of "dark kitchens" and delivery-focused business models complicates the problem. Since they have reduced overhead expenses, these models may more easily handle high commissions and frequently have higher visibility on platforms. As a result, they can displace conventional eateries and take a larger portion of the online food delivery services market. The gloomy kitchens present a chance for conventional restaurants to adjust by opening far-off delivery-only locations. The dynamics of the restaurant sector are being altered by legislative measures, platform agreements, and the emergence of delivery-first business models, all of which significantly impact commission rates on restaurants. The future of online food delivery services is wider than cost-effective operations. New operating models are likely to surface. Niche markets, including online grocery and alcohol delivery services, could catch up with the momentum and be instrumental revenue streams for market players, opines a lead analyst at FMI. Key Takeaways The United States online food delivery market to acquire a market share of 23.5% by 2023. by 2023. By 2023, Germany is going to retain an 8.5% online on-demand food delivery services market share. online on-demand food delivery services market share. Japan may keep striving to possess a 4.7% online food delivery services market share by 2023. online food delivery services market share by 2023. By 2023, Australia may own 2.6% of the market share. of the market share. By 2023, the United Kingdom may hold 6.2% of the online fast food delivery services market. of the online fast food delivery services market. China online food delivery services industry to record a CAGR of 12.5% through 2033. through 2033. India online food delivery market to register a CAGR of 3.1% through 2033. through 2033. The platform-to-consumer sector is anticipated to grasp 60% of the global market by 2023. of the global market by 2023. Over the projection period, platform to consumer distribution is anticipated to flourish at a CAGR of 9.8%. In 2023, it is predicted that the category of mobile apps may possess 38% of the global market share. of the global market share. Over the anticipated period, the mobile application segment is anticipated to develop at a CAGR of 9.7%. Request the full report methodology now: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/request-report-methodology/rep-gb-11068 Competitive Analysis There is fierce competition in the online on-demand food delivery services market. Expansion, mergers & acquisitions, and partnerships to achieve consolidation and enhance their offers are the main tactics used by businesses to strengthen their market dominance. Recent Advancements Acquisition Delivery Hero SE paid USD 150 million for Hugo's food and grocery delivery verticals in October 2021. The acquisition aims to broaden the company's presence in the Caribbean and Central American regions. Just Eat Takeaway.com acquired Grub Hub in June 2021 to enter the online meal delivery services market in the United States. This acquisition aims to help the larger group get access to the world's most appealing online meal delivery markets, including the United States, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Germany. Key Online Food Delivery Manufacturers Deliveroo DoorDash Foodpanda GrubHub Just Eat Holding Limited Postmates Inc. Swiggy Takeaway.com Zomato Uber Technologies Inc. Key Segments By Delivery Type: Restaurant-to-Consumer Platform-to-Consumer By Channel Type: Website/Desktop Mobile Application By Payment Method: Cash On Delivery Online By Region: North America Latin America Europe Asia Pacific Excluding Japan Japan The Middle East & Africa Purchase Now to Uncover Segment-specific Information, and Identify Key Trends, Drivers, and Challenges: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/checkout/11068 Author: Nandini Roy Choudhury (Client Partner for Food & Beverages at Future Market Insights, Inc.) has 7+ years of management consulting experience. She advises industry leaders and explores off-the-eye opportunities and challenges. She puts processes and operating models in place to support their business objectives. She has exceptional analytical skills and often brings thought leadership to the table. Nandini has vast functional expertise in key niches, including but not limited to food ingredients, nutrition & health solutions, animal nutrition, and marine nutrients. She is also well-versed in the pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, retail, and chemical sectors, where she advises market participants to develop methodologies and strategies that deliver results. Her core expertise lies in corporate growth strategy, sales and marketing effectiveness, acquisitions and post-merger integration and cost reduction. Nandini has an MBA in Finance from MIT School of Business. She also holds a Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering from Nagpur University, India. Nandini has authored several publications, and quoted in journals including Beverage Industry, Bloomberg, and Wine Industry Advisor. Explore FMI's Extensive Ongoing Coverage of Food and Beverage Market Insights Hyperlocal Food Delivery Market Outlook: The hyperlocal food delivery market share is predicted to witness a CAGR of 7% from 2023 to 2033. The global market is estimated to reach a value of nearly US$ 427.2 billion by 2033, increasing from US$ 220.4 billion in 2023. Online Food Delivery & Takeaway Market Sales: The global online food delivery & takeaway market is expected to reach a valuation of US$ 27,695.9 Million in 2022. The expanding online platforms and wide ranges of applications are projected to be the market's primary growth drivers. The market is further projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% from 2022 to 2032, totalling around US$ 55,828.1 Million by the end of 2032. Food Grade Lubricants Market Share: The food-grade lubricants market is likely to secure a CAGR of 6% through 2032. The market is likely to be valued at US$ 462.81 Million by 2032, up from its current valuation of US$ 258.43 Million in 2022. Food Preservatives Market Demand: The global food preservatives market is estimated to attain a market valuation of US$ 2,965.62 million in the year 2023. The market is expected to register a CAGR of 6.8% to reach US$ 5,725.70 million by 2033. Food Additives Market Growth: The food additives market is estimated to reach a valuation of US$ 2.44 billion in 2023, and is estimated to reach US$ 4.62 billion by 2033. The market is anticipated to record a CAGR of 6.6% during the forecast period. About Future Market Insights (FMI) Future Market Insights, Inc. (ESOMAR certified, recipient of the Stevie Award, and a member of the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce) offers profound insights into the driving factors that are boosting demand in the market. FMI stands as the leading global provider of market intelligence, advisory services, consulting, and events for the Packaging, Food and Beverage, Consumer Technology, Healthcare, Industrial, and Chemicals markets. With a vast team of over 5000 analysts worldwide, FMI provides global, regional, and local expertise on diverse domains and industry trends across more than 110 countries. Contact Us: Nandini Singh Sawlani Future Market Insights Inc. Christiana Corporate, 200 Continental Drive, Suite 401, Newark, Delaware - 19713, USA T: +1-845-579-5705 For Sales Enquiries: sales@futuremarketinsights.com Website: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com LinkedIn| Twitter| Blogs | YouTube Newark, N.J., Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- New Jersey Institute of Technologys rise in national rankings continues, with U.S. News & World Report placing NJIT No. 86 among national universities for 2024 a jump of 11 rungs from 2023. The latest ranking is indicative of a consistent trend over the past four years as NJIT climbed from 118 to 103 to 97 and now 86 and supports the findings of other publications that rate U.S. universities, including Money and The Wall Street Journal, which placed NJIT as the second-highest ranked public institution nationally. In key areas like student social mobility and value, U.S. News also saw improvement. Among national universities, NJIT is now No. 53 in Top Performers on Social Mobility (up 42 places) and No. 82 in Best Value Schools (up 36 places). Add to that its standing as a public national university (No. 43) and a research institution with top 100 undergraduate programs in engineering and computer science and you see a school racing toward its goal of being a premiere polytechnic in the U.S. This national recognition affirms our belief that NJIT provides a holistic education that blends classroom and real-world experiences and primes graduates for valuable, rewarding and impactful careers, NJIT President Teik C. Lim said. We remain focused on that mission every day. This year U.S. News revised its criteria to place greater emphasis on student outcomes, eliminating factors such as the percentage of alumni who donate to their alma maters and the percentage of first-year students who ranked highly in their high school class. In their place are measures of graduation rates, how much graduates earn compared to high school graduates and the median debt among graduates with federal loans, among others. To read the full U.S. News rankings, please visit https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges. About New Jersey Institute of Technology New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) is the greatest producer of technological talent and knowledge in New Jersey. NJIT is an R1 (most elite) Carnegie Classification research university that drives innovation and economic growth while preparing students to become leaders in the technology-dependent economy of the 21st century. The New York Times college ranking tool rates NJIT No. 1 nationally among all public universities when you prioritize high alumni earnings, economic mobility and academic profile, and The Wall Street Journal rates NJIT No. 19 overall and No. 2 among public universities in the United States. Additionally, NJIT stands among the top 100 universities in the country for alumni mid-career earnings, according to PayScale.com, is ranked No. 35 nationally by The Princeton Review as a Best Value College and is rated among the top 50 public national universities and top 100 overall by U.S. News & World Report. Attachment Pune,India, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global jewelry market size was valued at USD 216.48 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow from USD 224.38 billion in 2023 to USD 308.36 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period. The rising trend for increased consumption of jewels is attributed to the fact that people are inclined toward luxurious products. The growing popularity of incorporating technology in ornaments is boosting product demand. With increasing levels of disposable income levels, spending of consumers has been on the rise. Fortune Business Insights shares this information in its report titled Jewelry Market, 2023-2030. Get a Sample Research PDF: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/jewelry-market-102107 Leading Players Featured in the Research Report: Companies leading the jewelry market are Tiffany & Co (U.S.), Rajesh Exports Ltd (India), Cartier International SNC (France), Signet Jewelers Limited (Bermuda), Chanel (France), LVMH Moet Hennessy (France), Harry Winston, Inc. (U.S.), Chopard (Switzerland), Pandora Jewelry, LLC. (U.S.), Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Company Limited (Hong Kong), and more players, and more. Report Scope & Segmentation: Report Attributes Details Forecast Period 2023-2030 Forecast CAGR 4.6% 2030 Value Projection USD 308.36 Billion Market Size in 2022 USD 216.48 Billion Historical Data 2019-2021 No. of Pages 190 Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Company Profiles, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and Latest Trends Segments Covered By Product By Material Type By End-user By Region Regions Covered North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America Middle East and Africa Jewelry Market Growth Drivers Increasing Adoption of Digital Media Platforms and Opening of New Stores Favor Market Growth Increasing Disposable Income and Spending Power of Consumers to Favor Market Growth Report Coverage The report provides a detailed analysis of the top segments and the latest trends in the market. It comprehensively discusses the driving and restraining factors and the impact of COVID-19 on the market. Additionally, it examines the regional developments and the strategies undertaken by the market's key players. Drivers and Restraints Increasing Levels of Disposable Income and Spending of Consumers to Augment Market Growth Increasing levels of disposable income and rising spending of consumers are anticipated to drive the jewelry market growth. The demand for increasing consumption of luxury goods such as ornaments is propelling the market growth. Additionally, different customs regarding the adoption of ornaments followed by people across the globe are expected to significantly boost the purchase of the product. Increasing number of working populace of women and awareness about modern jewels and premium-class gems will further fuel the market growth. However, strict regulations on importing and exporting ornament are expected to hamper the market growth. COVID-19 Impact: Shortage of Employees in Manufacturing Affected Market Growth The COVID-19 pandemic led to nationwide lockdown resulting in the drastic shift of migrant workers from urban to rural places. This led to a shortage of employees in manufacturing. The impact of COVID-19, government restrictions of all events, shows, exhibitions, and weddings for a few months negatively impacted the market growth. What are the factors driving applications of the Jewelry Market? Fashion Trends : Ever-changing fashion trends play a significant role in the jewelry market. Consumers often purchase jewelry to complement their clothing and stay in style. Jewelry designers and manufacturers need to stay attuned to these trends to create appealing and relevant pieces. : Ever-changing fashion trends play a significant role in the jewelry market. Consumers often purchase jewelry to complement their clothing and stay in style. Jewelry designers and manufacturers need to stay attuned to these trends to create appealing and relevant pieces. Consumer Preferences : Consumer preferences for specific materials, styles, and designs greatly influence the jewelry market. Some may prefer traditional and classic pieces, while others may seek more contemporary or unique designs. Personalization and customization options also cater to individual preferences. : Consumer preferences for specific materials, styles, and designs greatly influence the jewelry market. Some may prefer traditional and classic pieces, while others may seek more contemporary or unique designs. Personalization and customization options also cater to individual preferences. Occasions and Celebrations : Jewelry is commonly purchased for special occasions such as weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and holidays. Seasonal and cultural events also drive demand for jewelry, as people often gift and wear jewelry to mark these moments. : Jewelry is commonly purchased for special occasions such as weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and holidays. Seasonal and cultural events also drive demand for jewelry, as people often gift and wear jewelry to mark these moments. Cultural and Symbolic Significance : Jewelry often carries cultural, religious, or symbolic meanings. For example, engagement rings and wedding bands symbolize love and commitment, while religious jewelry may have spiritual significance. These cultural and symbolic factors drive the purchase of specific types of jewelry. : Jewelry often carries cultural, religious, or symbolic meanings. For example, engagement rings and wedding bands symbolize love and commitment, while religious jewelry may have spiritual significance. These cultural and symbolic factors drive the purchase of specific types of jewelry. Status and Wealth : In many cultures, wearing high-end or luxurious jewelry is seen as a symbol of status, wealth, and success. This desire for social status can drive the demand for premium jewelry items. : In many cultures, wearing high-end or luxurious jewelry is seen as a symbol of status, wealth, and success. This desire for social status can drive the demand for premium jewelry items. Technology and Innovation : Advancements in jewelry-making technologies, such as 3D printing and CAD design, have opened up new possibilities for creating intricate and customized pieces. This technological innovation can attract consumers looking for unique and personalized jewelry. : Advancements in jewelry-making technologies, such as 3D printing and CAD design, have opened up new possibilities for creating intricate and customized pieces. This technological innovation can attract consumers looking for unique and personalized jewelry. Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing: Increasing awareness of environmental and ethical concerns has led to a growing demand for sustainable and ethically sourced jewelry. Consumers are more inclined to purchase jewelry that is made from recycled materials or sourced responsibly. Segments Ring Segment to Dictate as it Symbolizes Marital Status On the basis of product, the market is segmented into necklace, earrings, ring, bracelet, and others. The ring segment is set to lead due to rising popularity as it signifies engagement and marital status. Growing customer preference for personalized jewels has stimulated vendors to provide various customization options. Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and others have also been on rise owing to their usage for beautification and enhancement of looks. Diamond to Govern Due to its Various Benefits Based on material type, the market is categorized into gold, platinum, diamond, and others. Diamond is anticipated to dominate the market due to its sparkle and reflection. Various celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga, Gal Gadot, Rosie Huntington, Celine Dion, Naomi Campbell, Demi Moore, and many others donned diamond and platinum jewels at the Met Gala event of 2019. Women Segment to Lead Due to Rising Use of Jewels On the basis of end-user, the market is categorized into men and women. Women segment holds the majority part as the women population uses jewels more due to its symbolization of femininity. Men segment is also anticipated to show favorable growth as they want to own the product as a symbol to showcase their high status, unique styles, and fashion sense. Based on geography, the market is studied across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa. Get a Quote Now: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/get-a-quote/jewelry-market-102107 Regional Insights Asia Pacific to Govern Owing to the Presence of Major Market Players in the Region Asia Pacific is expected to have the largest jewelry market share owing to the presence of major players in the region. Tanishq, Malabar Gold and Diamonds, Queelin, Wallace Chan, and others mark their presence in Asia Pacific owing to increasing consumption. Europe is anticipated to have a substantial growth in the forecast period due to high per capita income in European countries. People have been spending high on ornaments due to high income levels. North America has moderate growth due to the presence of many millionaires who are the prime contributors to the increasing purchase of luxurious products . 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 of the Parent/Related Markets Industry SWOT Analysis Supply Chain and Regulatory Analysis Recent Industry Developments - Policies, Partnerships, New Product Launches, and Mergers & Acquisitions Qualitative Analysis (in relation to COVID-19) Impact of COVID-19 Supply Chain Challenges Potential Opportunities due to COVID-19 Global Jewelry Market Analysis, Insights, and Forecast, 2016-2027 Key Findings / Summary Market Size Estimates and Forecast By Product (Value) Necklace Earrings Ring Bracelet Others By Material Use (Value) Gold Platinum Diamond Others By End-User (Value) Men Women By Region (Value) North America Europe Asia Pacific South America Middle East & Africa TOC Continued...! Speak to Our Expert: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/speak-to-analyst/jewelry-market-102107 Competitive Landscape RJ Scanlan & Co. Expanded its Fine Jewelry Offering by Introducing a Range of Lux Collection Key market players have been focusing on looks and design of jewels to meet consumers' ever-changing needs and desires. In June 2021, RJ Scanlan & Co. expanded its fine jewelry offering by introducing a range of the Lux Collection in the Australia market. The collection is crafted with gold, diamonds, color gemstones, and pearls. Every piece is customized to order and essential to environmental sustainability. Key Industry Development January 2023- Tanishq entered the U.S. market by opening its first store in New Jersey. The store has about 6,500 jewelry designs in 18 and 22-karat gold and diamond. FAQs: How big is the Jewelry Market? Jewelry Market size was USD 216.48 billion in 2022. It is expected to reach USD 308.36 Billion by 2030. How fast is the Jewelry Market growing? The Jewelry Market will exhibit a CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period, 2023-2030. Read Related Insights: Luxury Goods Market to Worth USD 392.40 Billion by 2030 | With a 4.7% CAGR Travel Retail Market Size to Worth USD 117.18 Billion by 2030 | With a Striking 9.85% CAGR during [2023-2030] Sports Apparel Market Size to Worth USD 271.77 Billion by 2030 | With a Striking CAGR of 4.24% About Us: 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. Address: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. 9th Floor, Icon Tower, Baner, Mahalunge Road, Baner, Pune - 411045, Maharashtra, India. Phone: US: +1 424 253 0390 UK: +44 2071 939123 APAC: +91 744 740 1245 Email: sales@fortunebusinessinsights.com Follow Us: LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter Attachment VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Stallion Discoveries Corp. (the "Company" or "Stallion") (TSX-V: STUD; OTCQB: STLNF; FSE: HM4) is pleased to announce the results on key projects from the 5,200 line-kilometre VTEMTM Plus survey completed last winter. The data was provided to Condor Consulting (Condor) to complete advanced processing of the VTEM data in combination with compiled historical data. The results include conductor picking, target prioritization and advanced magnetic processing of the new data and integrating the historical magnetic data. The Company is also outlining their fall and winter exploration plans for its Western Athabasca Basin uranium projects. Stallion is very pleased with the VTEM results which demonstrate multiple areas that are responding similarly to the F3 Uraniums JR zone and Uranium Energy Corporations Shea Creek Deposits. The regional electromagnetic (EM) survey successfully identified several prospective areas across Stallions projects with significant discovery potential. The EM anomalies identified by Condor will be followed up on with a ground EM survey this fall. Along with the EM data, the advanced processing of the magnetic data identified multiple structural complexities, as well as coincident magnetic lows, which have been known to represent uranium alteration. The Company will begin delineating these areas and advancing them for Stallions maiden drill program. Four target zones have been identified to be followed up with exploration this fall and winter. The projects are untested with drilling and have the potential opportunity to host undiscovered uranium corridors. These additional targeted surveys will give Stallion the best opportunity to intersect uranium mineralization with drilling in the winter. In addition, Stallion plans to complete a regional inductive passive EM survey over the Stallion / Atha JV projects looking to extend existing conductive corridors onto this new frontier of exploration in the Western Athabasca. Identifying these several highly prospective target areas across Stallions large land package gives us a strong opportunity to discover the next significant uranium deposit in the basin, stated Drew Zimmerman, Chief Executive Officer. Historically, our land package was largely overlooked but with the new mining methods and technologies continuing to be developed, our projects are now becoming extremely relevant for future uranium exploration. As the uranium market continues to strengthen, tied to ongoing concerns over future uranium supply, we believe that this market provides the right conditions for uranium exploration at the scale Stallion that has planned for the coming year. As a team we are incredibly excited about what lies ahead in the coming months. Fall/Winter Exploration Plan Highlights Phase 1 Ground Time Domain Electromagnetic (TDEM) survey covering 142 line-kms over the Coffer Project. survey covering 142 line-kms over the Coffer Project. Complete a 5,500 line-km regional inductive passive EM survey over Atha Energy JV Projects (Figure 4). Phase 2 Diamond drilling totalling 3,000 metres on the Coffer Project. Diamond drilling totalling 1,500 metres on the Gunter Lake Project. Darren Slugoski, Vice President Exploration Canada commented Review of the data has highlighted some highly prospective areas to be targeted with further exploration. The ground geophysical surveys expected to be completed this fall will move our projects forward with drill ready targets. We are excited to be rapidly moving towards the drilling phase of our exploration plan this winter as we systematically test our targets. Additionally, our regional geophysical program on the Stallion / Atha JV projects will continue to define new exploration corridors and push forward a new frontier of exploration in the Western Athabasca. Exploration Plan The company is planning on completing a 2-phase exploration program over fall 2023 and winter 2024. Phase 1 exploration will consist of a 142 line-km ground TDEM survey over the Appaloosa, Mustang, and Clydesdale target areas. The survey is planned to be completed this fall in October and November. The results will significantly increase the resolutions of the conductors, thus increasing the targeting probabilities of intersecting mineralization and alteration. In conjunction with the ground TDEM survey, a regional airborne passive EM survey will be completed on the Stallion / Atha JV Project. The survey will cover over 2,200 km2 of Stallions new frontier in the Western Athabasca and consists of over 5,500 line kms, giving the company pivotal data over the underexplored project. Following the ground EM survey, Phase 2 will consist of a 3,000 metre winter drilling program on the Coffer project and 1,500 metre drill program at the Gunter Lake Project. The objective will be to test the EM anomalies on the Appaloosa, Mustang, and Coyote targets. The drilling phase will commence once ground TDEM results have be completed and interpreted. The Company will be utilizing gamma probe and borehole EM testing of the drill holes for additional information. Target Areas Appaloosa Target Coffer Project The Appaloosa Target hosts a ~3km long conductor (Figure 1) . . The conductor is hosted in a gravity (Saskatchewan Assessment Report file 74K-0020) and coincident magnetic low, which is known to correlation to uranium alteration. The conductor occurs sub-parallel to UECs Saskatoon Lake conductor, which hosts the Shea Creek Project. Tensor Magnetotelluric Survey completed in 2008 by Orano Canada also identified the anomaly in 2008 (Saskatchewan Assessment Report file 74K03-0017). Clydesdale Target Coffer Project Complex structures identified in a UTEM 3 (Saskatchewan Assessment Report file 74K03-0022) and Combined Moving Loop Survey and Tensor Magnetotelluric Survey (Saskatchewan Assessment Report file 74K03-0017) (Figure 1) . . Interpreted to be large conductive package hosting multiple conductive plates. Mustang Target Coffer Project Geologically complex, situated in a narrow magnetic low between edge of the Beatty River fault and the basement ridge ( Figure 2) . . Situated proximal to the Clearwater Domain which is believed to contribute to uranium mineralization in the Western Athabasca basin. Coyote Target Gunter Lake Project The Coyote Target occurs on the most eastern block of the Gunter Lake project hosting one conductor, which has ~5km metres of strike length (Figure 3) . . The conductor occurs as an East-West trending anomaly which cuts across the eastern claim block and continuous onto the Stallion / Atha JV project. Qualifying Statement: The foregoing scientific and technical disclosures for Stallion Discoveries have been reviewed by Darren Slugoski, P.Geo., VP Exploration, a registered member of the Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan. Mr. Slugoski is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. About Stallion Discoveries Stallion Discoveries is working to Fuel the Future with Uranium through the exploration of over 3,000 sq/km in the Athabasca Basin, home to the largest high-grade uranium deposits in the world. The company holds the largest contiguous project in the Western Athabasca Basin adjacent to multiple high-grade discovery zones. Our leadership and advisory teams are comprised of uranium and precious metals exploration experts with the capital markets experience and the technical talent for acquiring and exploring early-stage properties. Stallion offers optionality with two gold projects in Idaho and Nevada that neighbour world class gold deposits offering exposure to upside potential from district advancement with limited capital expenditures. For more information visit stalliondiscoveries.com or contact: Lisa Stewart Investor Relations (604) 341-8177 lstewart@stalliondiscoveries.com Drew Zimmerman Chief Executive Officer Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation (collectively, forward-looking statements) that relate to the Companys current expectations and views of future events. Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, through the use of words or phrases such as will likely result, are expected to, expects, will continue, is anticipated, anticipates, believes, estimated, intends, plans, forecast, projection, strategy, objective and outlook) are not historical facts and may be forward-looking statements and may involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this material change report should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date they are made. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Companys control, which could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to predict all of them, or assess the impact of each such factor or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Any forward-looking statements contained in this presentation are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Companys control, which could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to predict all of them, or assess the impact of each such factor or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Any forward-looking statements contained in this presentation are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Figure 1: Coffer Project Appaloosa and Clydesdale Targets Figure 2: Coffer Project Mustang Target Figure 3: Gunter Lake Project Coyote Target Figure 4: Stallion Discoveries Projects - Location Map Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3bb2cc62-a98f-4504-9589-7a11e26c6640 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/611db93a-2937-4724-95b0-b5d80e614f13 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2d1539b5-ee87-4209-aa8b-fdbc57619b58 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ce0d26af-6fe6-4662-8b13-19d6e8eb56c6 Des Moines, IA, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- LCS, the nations third-largest senior living operator, has been awarded a Top Workplaces honor for the fifth consecutive year by the Des Moines Registers Iowa Top Workplaces 2023 recognition program. The Top Workplace award is based on feedback from employees about their engagement at work. The award was announced Sept. 14, 2023, during a reception held in Des Moines and hosted by the Des Moines Register. Being recognized as the Top Workplace for so many consecutive years is an incredible honor, said Monica Friedman, EVP/Chief Human Resources Officer. Each year our employees take time to share their feedback and what they love about working for LCS. Just as important, they provide valuable insights that we use to make our culture even stronger. The program recognizes outstanding employers on the regional and national level. LCS has also been named as a Top Workplace USA award winner for three consecutive years, and in 2023 ranked fourth among nearly 200 companies in the Energage Healthcare category as part of its annual National Industry Awards. Earning a Top Workplaces award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes authentically from their employees, said Eris Rubino, Energage CEO. That is something to be proud of. In todays market, leaders must ensure theyre allowing employees to have a voice and be heard. Thats paramount. Top Workplaces do this, and it pays dividends. Curious about what makes LCS a great place to work? Visit the LCS Careers page to learn more about our award-winning culture and search for career opportunities. Attachments Dublin, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "US X-Ray Films Market - Focused Insights 2023-2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The US X-ray Films market is projected to reach a value of $727 million by 2028 from $640.72 million in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 2.1% This comprehensive report delves deep into the US X-ray Films market, providing detailed insights into their extensive applications in healthcare and industry. While the use of X-ray films in healthcare settings is gradually declining, their adoption in industrial sectors is on the rise, driven by the introduction of X-ray films with faster processing times. Leading vendors such as Agfa Healthcare, Carestream, and Fujifilm dominate the X-ray film market. Many market players are transitioning from traditional X-ray films to digital platforms, leveraging the advancements in healthcare digitalization to enhance diagnostic procedures. The global demand for X-ray films is steadily increasing, with approximately 5 billion X-ray procedures conducted worldwide in 2021. The US plays a significant role in contributing to this global demand. In industrial applications, X-ray films are crucial for detecting product defects, with the oil & gas industry relying on them for leak detection and pipeline inspection. Aerospace & defense segments also utilize X-ray films for security screening, non-destructive testing, and quality control purposes, further driving demand. Meanwhile, the medical sector, particularly hospitals and dental facilities, remains a substantial user of X-ray films. However, urgent care centers and emergency units are increasingly shifting to digital X-rays due to their compatibility with smart devices and faster processing times, which poses a challenge to the X-ray film market. Among X-ray film types, non-screen X-ray films dominate the product segment and find widespread use across various industries, including healthcare and others. This segment is expected to exhibit incremental growth of approximately 94%. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 67 Forecast Period 2023 - 2028 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $640.72 Million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2028 $727 Million Compound Annual Growth Rate 2.1% Regions Covered United States VENDOR LANDSCAPE Key Vendors: Agfa Fujifilm Carestream Sony Other Vendors Codonics Colenta Flow Dental FomaBohemia KONICA MINTOLTA REPORT HIGHLIGHTS SEGMENTATION & FORECAST Application Medical Industrial End-User Hospitals Diagnostic Imaging Centers Standalone Urgent/Emergency Centres Others Product Type Non-Screen X-ray Films Screen X-ray Films MARKET STRUCTURE Market Dynamics Competitive Landscape Key Vendors Other Prominent Vendors Strategic Recommendations Quantitative Summary Abbreviations For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/x0m80i 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 Press Release September 18, 2023 Senator Mark Villar: Walang lugar ang mga scammer sa bagong Pilipinas Senator Mark Villar, Chairperson of the Committee on Banks, Financial Institutions and Currencies led the committee hearing on 3 Senate Resolutions, 4 Senate Billes, and 1 House Bill, collectively called as the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act or AFASA. "The number of phishing attacks in the Philippines during the first half of 2022 already surpassed the number of attacks in the whole year of 2021. In that period, over 1.8 million attacks have been detected compared to 1.34 million attacks in 2021," Senator Villar said. Senator Mark Villar stands in his firm belief that the rising cases of online scams that victimize Filipinos are extremely concerning as data from Kaspersky Security Network reveal that cases of financial phishing attempts in the Philippines from February to April 2022 were highest in Southeast Asia. He emphasized that the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act or AFASA will evidently deal with cases of online fraud. The AFASA will provide a regulatory framework that penalizes scammers and entails safeguard measures to protect Filipinos and their financial accounts. "Because of the lack of a regulatory framework that penalizes these scammers, there are and there will be more victims in the foreseeable future. Even as we speak, there are individuals being victimized by these scammers who seize every vulnerable opportunity available to them. We cannot watch from the sidelines as scammers take advantage of our people," Senator Mark Villar added. The senator further emphasized that cases of online fraud endanger the public's trust in financial institutions. He stressed that by enacting the AFASA into law, the public's trust in banks and financial institutions would then be strengthened. "Being a key component of our economy, our banking and financial institutions must remain strong and responsive to this persistent threat. We should not give these scammers an avenue and more time to victimize our people. We must act now. Take a stand with us in protecting our banks, economy, and the Filipinos. Walang lugar ang mga scammer sa bagong Pilipinas!" The public committee hearing was followed by an Executive Session due to the confidentiality and sensitivity of the issues and information that will be discussed. This is to ensure that law enforcement measures being undertaken to apprehend and prosecute scammers will not be disrupted. New York, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In 2022, the global Virtual Health Service Market Was Valued at USD 7.1 Billion and Is Expected To Reach USD 50.9 Billion by 2032, This Market Is Estimated To Register a CAGR Of 22.4 %. Virtual health services, sometimes called telehealth or telemedicine, refer to the use of digital technologies and telecommunications to deliver medical care, health information, or health education from a distance. It involves the use of technologies such as, mobile applications, video consultation, text-based messages, and other communication platforms. Market.us has identified key trends, drivers, and challenges in the market, which will help clients improve their strategies to stay ahead of their competitors. - View a PDF sample report @ https://market.us/report/virtual-health-service-market/request-sample/ Key Takeaway By Consultation Mode, the video segment accounted for the largest revenue share of 35.6% in 2022 . accounted for the largest revenue share of in 2022 . By Component, the software & services segment dominated the global virtual health service market with largest share of 56% in 2022. dominated the global virtual health service market with largest share of in 2022. By End-User, the patient segment held the largest market share of 31.2% in 2022. held the In 2022, North America dominated the market with the highest revenue share of 42%. Nearly, 96% of health systems plan to expand virtual healthcare options due to upcoming laws, insurance provider influence, and consumer demand, simplifying revenue generation. Factors affecting the growth of global virtual health service market There are several factors that can affect the growth of Global Virtual Health Service Market. Some of these factors include: Aging Population: The market growth for virtual health service is mainly influenced by the increase in number of aged individuals. As the population ages, the need for medical consultations may rise, and virtual health services offer an efficient way to meet this demand. The market growth for virtual health service is mainly influenced by the increase in number of aged individuals. As the population ages, the need for medical consultations may rise, and virtual health services offer an efficient way to meet this demand. Cost-Effectiveness: Virtual services often reduce overhead costs, and some of these savings can be passed on to the consumer, making healthcare more affordable. Virtual services often reduce overhead costs, and some of these savings can be passed on to the consumer, making healthcare more affordable. Insurance Reimbursement: Several insurance companies are beginning to reimburse for virtual health services, making it more financially viable for both providers and patients. Several insurance companies are beginning to reimburse for virtual health services, making it more financially viable for both providers and patients. Regulatory Uncertainty: The rules and regulations governing telehealth are not uniform and are continually evolving, creating an uncertain environment for providers. As a result, it may impede the market growth. Top Trends in Global Virtual Health Service Market Virtual-first care is a growing trend in healthcare, offering patients the convenience of remote delivery of services. This approach improves accessibility, outcomes, patient satisfaction, and quality of life, especially for providers facing clinical and financial challenges. Moreover, increased investment in mental health therapies is expected to increase the demand for virtual behavioral health solutions. Market Growth The global virtual health service market has experienced noteworthy growth in past few years, and is anticipated to continue in the upcoming years. The American Medical Association (AMA) acknowledges virtual healthcare's potential to improve patient care and strengthen physician-patient relationships, particularly in managing persistent health conditions like COPD and diabetes. Regional Analysis North America dominated the global virtual health service market with highest revenue share of 42% in 2022. The high spending on healthcare IT, strong internet connectivity, presence of key players, and large population base of smartphone users is expected to drive the demand for virtual health service in this region. In addition, the growth of this regional market can be highly attributed to availability of favorable insurance coverages in this region. To understand how our report can bring a difference to your business strategy, Inquire about a brochure at https://market.us/report/virtual-health-service-market/#inquiry Competitive Landscape Virtual health service market is highly fragmented due to presence of several companies operating regionally as well as globally. The major market players are now focused on implementation of various growth strategies such as partnerships, collaborations, and mergers & acquisitions. In addition, leading players are coming up with the new innovations and ideas to survive in a competitive market. Market Key Players CVS Health Payor Solution McKesson Corp Cardinal Health Cigna Healthcare Elevance Health Centene Corporation Teladoc Health, Inc. Other Key Players Scope of the Report Report Attributes Details Market Value (2022) USD 7.1 Billion Market Size in 2032 USD 50.9 Billion CAGR (2023 to 2032) 22.4% North America Revenue Share 42% Historic Period 2016 to 2022 Base Year 2022 Forecast Year 2023 to 2032 Market Drivers Telehealth saves patients and service providers expenses by allowing digital appointments before hospital visits, reducing travel costs, increasing efficiency, and minimizing readmissions, compared to traditional in-person care. Telemedicine, a convenient and accessible method of remote medical consultation, gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic due to its ability to maintain physical distancing and provide services to patients. Virtual health services are revolutionizing rural healthcare by providing essential medical care to remote areas. Telemedicine and Health IT technologies are closing the healthcare access gap, making healthcare more accessible and convenient for those living in isolated areas, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Market Restraints Privacy and security in telehealth practice are impacted by technology, operational, and environmental factors. Sharing sensitive health information remotely can be challenging due to privacy concerns, such as unintentional disclosure of patient details and concerns about space and accessibility. Moreover, limited connectivity to the internet in less-developed or rural areas creates a digital divide, thereby restricting the market growth. India Today reports that over 25,000 villages lack internet or mobile connectivity, creating a digital divide and potentially decreasing demand for virtual health services in these areas. Market Opportunities Advancements in digital technologies have revolutionized virtual health services by enabling more accessible and convenient interactions between healthcare providers and patients. Through the use of remote monitoring devices, video conferencing tools, mobile health apps, and telemedicine platforms, both parties can engage in seamless healthcare experiences. One of the latest breakthroughs in this area is the application of artificial intelligence (AI), designed to boost the efficiency of healthcare providers. The advent of wearable technology and various tools for remote patient monitoring further enhances patient engagement by keeping them continually informed about their health status. Immediate Delivery Available | Buy This Premium Research Report@ https://market.us/purchase-report/?report_id=105794 Report Segmentation of the Virtual Health Service Market Consultation Mode Insight The video segment held the largest revenue share of 35.6% in 2022. Video consultations are advanced telemedicine methods that offer visual contact, improved communication, and visual examination of patients. Research shows they are more successful in treating specific disorders like depression, providing similar care levels. Moreover, a virtual visit allows interactive communication form that can build a trustful relationship between the patient and the service provider. As a result, the video segment dominates the global market. Component Insight The software & services segment dominated the market with largest share of 56% in 2022. Improvement in software solutions increases the demand for installation, maintenance, training, and staffing services. In addition, the major players offer post-installation and pre-installation packages, thereby boosting the growth of this segment. End-user Insight The patient segment accounted for the highest revenue share of 31.2% in 2022. The segment growth can be attributed to the convenience and ease of use it offers to the individuals. Additionally, technology-driven accessibility is anticipated to boost the segment growth. On the other hand, people turn towards telemedicine for several reasons, whether they are dealing with serious health concerns. To meet different needs, companies offer telemedicine services that are continuously expanding their offerings. These companies, provide telemedicine software, carts, kits, dashboards, APIs, and SDKs for remote patient monitoring, with the provider segment expected to experience rapid growth. Market.us has identified key trends, drivers, and challenges in the market, which will help clients improve their strategies to stay ahead of their competitors. - View a PDF sample report @ https://market.us/report/virtual-health-service-market/request-sample/ Market Segmentation By Consultation Mode Video Audio Messaging Kiosks By Component Software & Services Hardware By End-User Patient Healthcare Providers Payers Employers Other End-Users By Geography North America The US Canada Europe Germany France The UK Spain Italy Russia & CIS Rest of Europe APAC China Japan South Korea India ASEAN Rest of APAC Latin America Brazil Mexico Rest of Latin America Middle East & Africa GCC South Africa Rest of MEA Recent Development of the Virtual Health Service Market In August 2023 , Amazon has recently launched its virtual health clinic, called Amazon Clinic, nationwide. , Amazon has recently launched its virtual health clinic, called Amazon Clinic, nationwide. In August 2023 , Amazon expanded its virtual health clinic nationwide, making it available to all customers in each of the 50 states and Washington, D.C. , Amazon expanded its virtual health clinic nationwide, making it available to all customers in each of the 50 states and Washington, D.C. In August 2020, $75M Series D funding was raised by Doctor On Demand for primary care, virtual behavioral health, while a $18.5 billion mega-merger deal was announced by Livongo and Teladoc. Browse More Related Reports: Telehealth Market was valued at USD 7.7 Billion. Between 2023 and 2032 Digital Health Market size is expected to be worth around USD 1,190.4 Billion by 2032 from USD 264.1 Billion in 2023 Remote Patient Monitoring Software and services Market size is expected to be worth around USD 78.4 Billion by 2032 healthcare IT market size is expected to be worth around USD 1,728 Billion by 2032 from USD 374 Billion in 2023 Healthcare Chatbots market size was valued at USD 195.85 million and is expected to reach USD 1168 million in 2032 About Us: Market.US (Powered by Prudour Pvt Ltd) specializes in in-depth market research and analysis and has been proving its mettle as a consulting and customized market research company, apart from being a much sought-after syndicated market research report-providing firm. Market.US provides customization to suit any specific or unique requirement and tailor-makes reports as per request. We go beyond boundaries to take analytics, analysis, study, and outlook to newer heights and broader horizons. Follow Us on LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter Our Blog: Dublin, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Interior Lighting Market Size, Share & Industry Trends Analysis Report By Lighting Effect, By Product, By Type, By End Use (Commercial, Residential, and Industrial), By Regional Outlook and Forecast, 2023 - 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global interior lighting market is expected to witness substantial growth, reaching a projected value of $115.1 billion by 2030, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.2% during the forecast period. This market growth is driven by various factors, including the increasing use of decorative lamps in the residential sector and the growing emphasis on creating visually appealing and energy-efficient lighting systems. Decorative lamps, which generated $6.5 billion in revenue in 2022, have become a popular choice in residential settings. People are increasingly focused on enhancing the aesthetics of their homes, and decorative lighting plays a significant role in creating visually interesting spaces. Lighting not only affects the perceived size of a room but also contributes to the overall ambiance and atmosphere. Modern decor now considers lighting fixtures as a seamless blend of design and functionality, creating warm, inviting, and functional environments. Several factors are influencing the interior lighting market's growth: Demand for Energy-Efficient Lighting: There is a growing need for energy-efficient lighting systems, driven by environmental concerns and rising energy costs. Supportive government regulations are also encouraging the adoption of energy-efficient lighting solutions. There is a growing need for energy-efficient lighting systems, driven by environmental concerns and rising energy costs. Supportive government regulations are also encouraging the adoption of energy-efficient lighting solutions. Rise of Smart Lighting Systems: Smart lighting systems are gaining popularity due to their ability to provide control and automation over lighting products. These systems, which are often part of the Internet of Things (IoT), allow users to control lighting components through mobile apps. As a result, the market for smart lighting is expected to expand significantly. Smart lighting systems are gaining popularity due to their ability to provide control and automation over lighting products. These systems, which are often part of the Internet of Things (IoT), allow users to control lighting components through mobile apps. As a result, the market for smart lighting is expected to expand significantly. Security Concerns with IoT Smart Lighting: While IoT-connected lighting offers convenience, it also poses security challenges. Connected lights create a network of LED fixtures, and if not properly secured, hackers could potentially gain access to sensitive data or even control elements of a smart home. Security concerns could potentially hamper market expansion. The growing global population is contributing to increased residential and commercial construction, leading to a higher demand for electricity. Many countries are focusing on phasing out inefficient lighting sources, such as incandescent bulbs, in favor of energy-efficient alternatives like LED lighting. LED lights are known for their long lifespan, cost-saving benefits, and high efficiency. Key Market Segments: Lighting Effect: The market is segmented by lighting effect, including downlighting, perimeter lighting, wall grazing, uplighting, spotlighting, and others. The market is segmented by lighting effect, including downlighting, perimeter lighting, wall grazing, uplighting, spotlighting, and others. Product: Products in the market include ceiling lights, chandeliers, pendant lights, recessed and surface-mounted lights, wall lights, decorative lamps, clamp lights, track lights, spots and spotlights, and others. Products in the market include ceiling lights, chandeliers, pendant lights, recessed and surface-mounted lights, wall lights, decorative lamps, clamp lights, track lights, spots and spotlights, and others. Type: Lighting types encompass ambient lighting, accent lighting, task lighting, general lighting, and mood lighting. Lighting types encompass ambient lighting, accent lighting, task lighting, general lighting, and mood lighting. End-use: The market caters to commercial, residential, and industrial sectors. Companies Mentioned Lena Lighting S.A. Karice Lighting Jaquar Group WLS Lighting Systems, Inc Wipro Lighting (Wipro Enterprises Private Limited) Trilux Gmbh EST Lights ERCO GmbH Russell Lighting Kichler Lighting LLC (Masco Corporation) For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/pbgyh7 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 SALT LAKE CITY, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via IBN -- Diamond Lake Minerals, Inc. ( OTC: DLMI ) (the "Company" or "DLMI"), a leading Multi Strategy Operating Company specializing in the development and support of digital assets and SEC-registered security tokens, is delighted to welcome Anthony Scaramucci, the founder and managing partner of SkyBridge, as a Strategic Advisor. Scaramucci's unparalleled expertise in finance, technology, and business strategy will be instrumental in shaping DLMI's strategic direction as the company continues to redefine the future of traditional and digital securities. Anthony Scaramucci has a distinguished career, having founded and led SkyBridge, a global alternative investment firm. Additionally, he is the founder and chairman of SALT, a globally renowned thought leadership forum and venture studio. Scaramucci's journey in finance began when he co-founded investment partnership Oscar Capital Management, ultimately acquired by Neuberger Berman in 2001. Earlier in his career, he honed his skills in Private Wealth Management at Goldman Sachs & Co. Reflecting on his new role at DLMI, Scaramucci remarked, "I have had the pleasure of knowing and seeing Brian Esposito's hard work in building so many great companies and brands across multiple industries over the past two decades. Witnessing how he always seems to be ahead of the curve in market direction is what I truly admire about him and his capabilities. It is a true honor to join Diamond Lake Minerals team alongside such tremendous advisors to bring as much support, guidance, opportunity, and experience as I can to assist them in the building of traditional businesses and traditional securities, combined with what we believe is the future, regulated digital securities." In 2022, Scaramucci was recognized as the #47 Influencer in Crypto and Blockchain by Cointelegraph, a testament to his forward-thinking vision. His impact extends beyond the financial world, as he was ranked #85 in Worth Magazine's Power 100: The 100 Most Powerful People in Global Finance in 2016. In 2011, he received Ernst & Young's New York Financial Services "Entrepreneur of the Year" Award. Scaramucci is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) and serves as a board member of the Federal Enforcement Homeland Security Foundation. He is also an accomplished author with five books to his name. "I cannot begin to explain how important and incredible it is to have Mr. Anthony Scaramucci join our Diamond Lake Minerals Advisory Board. Not only is Anthony a dear friend, he is someone I highly admire and respect. He is one of the hardest working professionals I have ever met, yet also one of the kindest and most accessible as well," stated Brian J. Esposito, CEO of DLMI. "Having someone as esteemed, credible, and seasoned in business, finance, and technology as Anthony supporting our vision, speaks volumes for the direction we are taking this wonderful entity and together we will correctly pave the way for future companies to follow." About Diamond Lake Minerals, Inc. Founded in Utah in 1954 Diamond Lake Minerals, Inc. ( OTC: DLMI ) is a Multi Strategy Operating Company that specializes in the development and support of digital assets and SEC-registered security tokens. Our goal is to responsibly innovate and develop valuable traditional businesses and successfully combine them with the future of money, digital assets. Our mission is to bring back to the public markets timeless business principles that are focused on healthy sustainable growth, strong earnings that generate yields combined in a modern digital world creating value for our stakeholders. DLMI is positioning itself as an industry agnostic leader in the digital asset and security token space. Safe Harbor Statement This release contains forward-looking statements that are based upon current expectations or beliefs, as well as a number of assumptions about future events. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements and the assumptions upon which they are based are reasonable, we can give no assurance or guarantee that such expectations and assumptions will prove to have been correct. Forward-looking statements are generally identifiable by the use of words like "may," "will," "should," "could," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "believe," "intend," or "project" or the negative of these words or other variations on these words or comparable terminology. The reader is cautioned not to put undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, as these statements are subject to numerous factors and uncertainties, including but not limited to: adverse economic conditions, competition, adverse federal, state and local government regulation, international governmental regulation, inadequate capital, inability to carry out research, development and commercialization plans, loss or retirement of key executives and other specific risks. To the extent that statements in this press release are not strictly historical, including statements as to revenue projections, business strategy, outlook, objectives, future milestones, plans, intentions, goals, future financial conditions, events conditioned on stockholder or other approval, or otherwise as to future events, such statements are forward-looking and are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The forward-looking statements contained in this release are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. Company Contacts Gary Zlobinskiy: ir@diamondlakeminerals.com George Pappas, Conservaco-Ignite Agency +1 (562) 857-5680 www.diamondlakeminerals.com Wire Service Contact: IBN Los Angeles, California www.InvestorBrandNetwork.com 310.299.1717 Office Editor@InvestorBrandNetwork.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7514fe55-c418-4be6-868a-68609c3045bc Seattle, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Avalyn Pharma Inc. , a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on development of targeted therapies for life-threatening pulmonary diseases, announced that CEO Lyn Baranowski will lead a workshop during the annual Hanson & Wade IPF Summit on September 19, 2023. Ms. Baranowski and Timothy Whelan, MD, a pulmonologist and professor of medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina, will facilitate a discussion with attending medical and industry professionals on clinical trial strategies that could be employed to improve the development of therapies for pulmonary fibrosis . Topics will include the selection and optimization of drug delivery methods, the impact of dosing regimens and administration routes on clinical studies, and the impact formulations have on immunogenicity and compliance. Panel Details: IPF Summit - Advancing Disease-Modifying Pulmonary Fibrosis Drugs Workshop: Deciphering Therapeutic Formulation & Delivery to Create Efficacious & Patient & Clinician-Orientated Drugs for Pulmonary Fibrosis Patients Location: Westin Boston Seaport in Boston, MA Day/Time: September 19, 1:00-4:00 p.m. Update on the negotiations with the holders of notes issued by Quatrim Request to extend the conciliation proceedings Paris, 18 September 2023 As announced on 27 July 2023, Casino Group has continued negotiations with the ad hoc group of holders of the notes issued by Quatrim representing a majority of noteholders (the Ad Hoc Group) in view of agreeing on the treatment of the Quatrim notes as part of the agreement in principle entered into on 27 July 2023 by Casino with EP Global Commerce a.s., Fimalac, Attestor (hereafter collectively the "Consortium") and some secured creditors. In this respect, the Group, the Consortium and the Ad Hoc Group have reached an agreement in principle. The main terms of this agreement in principle are attached to this press release and have been posted today on Casinos website (Agreement). This agreement in principle remains subject to the completion of the other restructuring transactions announced by the Group on 27 July 2023. In addition, the conciliators (conciliateurs) today filed an application with the Paris Commercial Court for an extension of the conciliation proceedings until 25 October 2023. All inside information relating to Casino Group which has been provided to date by Casino to stakeholders under non-disclosure agreements as part of the conciliation proceedings, has been publicly disclosed. * * * This press release was prepared solely for information purposes and should not be construed as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell securities or related financial instruments. Likewise, it does not provide and should not be treated as providing investment advice. It has no connection with the specific investment objectives, financial situation or needs of any receiver. No representation or warranty, either express or implied, is provided in relation to the accuracy, completeness or reliability of the information contained herein. Recipients should not consider it as a substitute for the exercise of their own judgement. All the opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice. Forward-looking statements This press release may include forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms as believe, expect, anticipate, may, assume, plan, intend, will, should, estimate, risk and or, in each case, their negative, or other variations or comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements include all matters that are not historical facts and include statements regarding the Casino Groups intentions, beliefs or current expectations concerning, among other things, the Casino Groups plans, objectives, assumptions, expectations, prospects and beliefs and statements regarding other future events or prospects. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future. These forward-looking statements reflect the Casino Groups current expectations, intentions or forecasts of future events, which are based on the information currently available and on assumptions made by the Casino Group. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this announcement are made as of the date hereof and the Casino Group is under no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable laws. All subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements attributable to the Casino Group, or persons acting on the Casino Groups behalf, included in but not limited to press releases (including on the Casino Groups website), reports and other communications, are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained throughout this press release. *** ANALYSTS AND INVESTORS CONTACTS Christopher WELTON Phone number: +33 (0)1 53 65 64 17 cwelton.exterieur@groupe-casino.fr or +33 (0)1 53 65 24 17 IR_Casino@groupe-casino.fr PRESS CONTACTS Casino Group Communications Department Nicolas BOUDOT - nboudot@groupe-casino.fr - + 33 (0)6 79 61 40 99 or + 33(0)1 53 65 24 78 - directiondelacommunication@groupe-casino.fr Agence IMAGE 7 Karine Allouis Phone number: +33 (0)6 11 59 23 26 - kallouis@image7.fr Laurent Poinsot Phone number: + 33(0)6 80 11 73 52 - lpoinsot@image7.fr Franck Pasquier Phone number : + 33(0)6 73 62 57 99 - fpasquier@image7.fr Appendix Main terms of the agreement in principle with the holders of notes issued by Quatrim Introduction As announced on 27 July 2023, Casino Group has continued negotiations with the ad hoc group of holders of the senior secured notes issued by Quatrim (the SSN) representing a majority of noteholders (the Ad Hoc Group) in view of agreeing on the treatment of the Quatrim notes as part of the agreement in principle entered into on 27 July 2023 by Casino with EP Global Commerce a.s., Fimalac, Attestor (hereafter collectively the "Consortium") and some secured creditors Quatrim owns 100% of the shares in Immobiliere Groupe Casino (IGC), an entity that owns the development and management of properties, including hypermarket, supermarket, convenience stores, shopping centres, petrol stations, parking and land assets As of 31/12/2022, the Quatrim perimeter was valued at c.752m1, and the CPF Real Estate Assets were valued at c.64m1 Most of the properties owned by IGC are leased to stores under Casino Frances banners or externally to third parties Casino, the Consortium and the steerco of the Ad Hoc Group have now reached an agreement in principle as reflected in a term sheet that is intended to be appended to the lock-up agreement. The key terms of this agreement in principle are summarised herein The treatment of the SSN (553m notional outstanding) includes amongst others a maturity extension to Jan-27 (with additional 1-year extension option), an amendment to a PIYC coupon of 8.5%, allocation of disposal proceeds and a ring-fencing of the Quatrim perimeter with the SSN having limited recourse obligations to assets of the Casino Group (including capped guarantees) (summary of terms on the next pages) The maturity extension will provide runway for IGC to implement an asset disposal plan and Quatrim debt reduction as part of the broader Casino Group strategy This agreement in principle remains subject to the completion of the other restructuring transactions announced by the Group on 27 July 2023 Main economic terms Term Description Issuer Same as existing SSN: Quatrim SAS Principal amount Treatment of accrued interest: c.28m of accrued interest until the restructuring effective date will be (i) 50% repaid in cash on the restructuring effective date and (ii) 50% added to the pre-restructuring principal amount. New notional of 567m (before mandatory redemptions), comprised of: c.553m of outstanding principal amount, and c.14m of capitalised accrued interest 2 Mandatory redemptions at closing Segregated account balance to be applied in prepayment of the Quatrim notes on the restructuring effective date c. EUR 20m as of 11 September 2023 Further disposal proceeds are expected to be deposited on the segregated account ahead of the restructuring effective date Maturity Maturity extension from 15 January 2024 to 15 January 2027, with an additional 1-year extension at Quatrims option Ranking Senior secured Interest Pay-if-you can (PIYC) coupon of 8.5% per annum, subject to asset disposal plan progress PIYC interest subject to minimum liquidity criteria at Quatrim level Coupon step-up: if actual disposal proceeds are less than 80% of target disposals proceeds, coupon will be increased to 9.5% per annum Coupon step-down: if actual disposal proceeds are higher than 120% of target disposals proceeds, coupon will be decreased to 7.5% per annum Collateral Pledge over the shares of Quatrim Pledge over the shares of IGC Pledge over Quatrims material bank accounts opened in France Pledge over Quatrims Bonds Segregated Accounts and Bonds Securities Accounts with respect to the SSN Pledge over the receivables owed to Quatrim under the Segisor Proceeds Loan and Monoprix Proceeds Loan Guarantees Limited recourse to the Casino group 3 : New CGP Guarantee in relation to: Contractual rent, service charges and capex obligations due by members of Casino Group to IGC A capex shortfall Monoprix SAS Guarantee / Proceed Loan for an amount of 50m Segisor Guarantee / Proceed Loan for an amount of 46m : Allocation of disposals proceeds Certain portions of the disposal proceeds of some assets to be applied in prepayment of the Quatrim notes in case of disposal: All of the net proceeds from the sale of the assets held by Quatrim and its subsidiaries (the Quatrim Perimeter) 33.33% of the net proceeds from the sale of the Casino Participations France (CPF) real estate assets 33.33% of the net proceeds from the sale of Green Yellow 33.33% of the net proceeds from the sale of the other Casino Participations Finance assets Subject to minimum liquidity criteria at Casino group level, an amount capped at 46m corresponding to 50% of the net proceeds exceeding 590m received by Segisor from the disposal of LatAm assets Net proceeds for allocation subject to Minimum Liquidity Amount at Quatrim group Governance Set up by the Quatrim noteholders of a steerco observer to monitor the asset disposal plan, with step in rights in case of material breach of the asset disposal plan Asset Disposal Plan Disposal plan related to certain assets of Quatrim and its Subsidiaries, as submitted by the Company to the Senior Secured Notes Trustee on the restructuring effective date Disposal strategy to be reasonably agreed between the Issuer, the Consortium SPV and the Majority Senior Secured Bondholders based on the disposal plan communicated by the Company on 27 July 2023 with an objective to maximize sales proceeds Asset-Related Covenants The Asset Disposal Plan will include a covenant as to the amount of disposal proceeds to be achieved with levels to be agreed and to be tested on a semi-annual basis The Asset Disposal Plan shall also include covenants on an annual capital expenditure amount and an annual selling, general and administrative expenses Governing law Laws of the State of New York IGC Real Estate Portfolio Overview ICG Portfolio Value Overview (Post Transfer Tax) as of 31/12/2022 (In m) Quatrim perimeter Hypermarkets 195 Supermarkets 160 Convenient stores 11 Stores 366 Parking 149 Shopping centers & Petrol stations 133 Land and Others 104 Others 385 Total IGC 752 ICG Portfolio Rent Roll & EBITDA Projection (Pre-disposal Plan) (In m) 2023P 2024P 2025P 2026P 2027P Net rent and property development income 37 39 41 41 41 EBITDA (pre-capex) 27 29 31 31 31 IGC Net rent and property development income4 Revised real estate asset disposal plan (in m) H2 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 74 207 73 79 75 72 Theoretical value of assets for Quatrims bondholders (In m) Value (100%) Quatrim Share (%) Total Quatrim Perimeter5 732 100% 732 Cash in segregated accounts 20 100% 20 CPF real estate assets 64 33.3% 21 Green Yellow 135 33.3% 45 Other CPF assets6 (Casino Participations France) 96 33.3% 32 Segisor - Exp. Latam excess proceeds share7 46 n.m. 46 Monoprix guarantee - - 50 Total 946 1 Market value as of Dec-22 (Excluding Transfer Tax) with vast majority of the valuation performed by external real estate appraisal firms 2 Assuming a restructuring effective date on 31 March 2024 3 The Quatrim group will be subject to ring-fencing of their liabilities, assets and cross liabilities from the remainder of the Casino Group subject to the provisions of the term sheet. 4 Proceeds from asset disposals based on market values (see also footnote 2), including CPF real estate assets which are outside the current Quatrim perimeter 5 Based on market value (ex. value transfer tax) as of Dec-22 with vast majority of the valuation performed by external real estate appraisal firms, after deducting 20m net cash proceeds from asset disposals completed after 31/12/2022 which have been put into segregated account. 6 Intermediary holding company which owns 100% of Quatrim, alongside Other Assets including RelevanC (100% stake; data mining and analytics services), Perspecteev c. 40% stake; fintech software development company, Robin Investments (45% stake; RE holding company) 7 Subject to final asset disposal value Attachment Boston, Massachusetts, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Please use the below updated release: HYCU, Inc., the fastest growing data protection as a service company is taking a major first step as the digital world is on the brink of a catastrophe. As more companies increasingly rely on Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions, the looming SaaS data apocalypse is quickly emerging as the most significant threat to data in years. Today, Simon Taylor's new book, "Averting the SaaS Data Apocalypse," is released to shine a light on this imminent digital threat and share real world examples of what can be done to avoid digital mayhem. From the meteoric rise of the SaaS data apocalypse to deep dives into how leading organizations, including the Boston Red Sox, Zebra Technologies, and Bain Capital, have navigated these challenging waters, Taylor offers an unparalleled insight into the modern SaaS landscape. In the book's foreword, Enrique Salem, Partner at Bain Capital, an investor in HYCU, underscores the importance of Simon Taylor's work, stating, "From the dawn of the digital era to the explosive growth of data and the intricacies of SaaS, our digital world is brimming with both opportunities and threats. Simon Taylor, through this pivotal book, offers not just insights but a roadmap to navigating these challenges. 'Averting the SaaS Data Apocalypse' stands as a beacon for businesses, guiding them through the dynamic times of the data revolution. Simon's profound perspectives offer a blueprint for a more secure and streamlined digital age, ensuring the safeguarding of our digital tomorrow." In this compelling narrative, readers are plunged into a journey through the treacherous landscape of SaaS data sprawl. However, amidst the chaos, HYCU emerges as the beacon of hope with its first of its kind, R-Cloud, low code data protection development platform, leading the charge against this digital threat. There are 23,000+ SaaS applications in use globally, and more than 50% of successful ransomware attacks happening through SaaS use, and predictions that a successful ransomware attack will occur every two seconds by 2031, signs of the Apocalypse are clear, said Taylor. The purpose of the book is to shed light on this emerging crisis, offer practical recommendations on how to deal with it, and learn from some of the most forward-thinking IT leaders that share their experiences in how to truly avert what is becoming the biggest IT challenge of our lifetime. Availability: "Averting the SaaS Data Apocalypse" is available for purchase on Amazon.com in print and Kindle versions worldwide with the pending release in audiobook format on Audible. For special orders, corporate packages, or a free signed copy, please visit: Signed Copy. About Simon Taylor: Simon Taylor is the CEO and founder of HYCU, the worlds fastest growing multicloud data protection company. He has more than 20 years experience in go-to-market strategy development, product marketing and channel sales management for the tech industry. He has worked for leading companies such as Comtrade Group, Forrester Research, Putnam Investments and Omgeo. He received an MBA in international business from IE (Instituto de Empresa) Business School and an undergraduate degree in operations technology from Northeastern University. He is the author of Johns Book, an acclaimed full-length novel, and is a board member at Uncornered, an active member of YPO and a Research Fellow at Boston College. About HYCU HYCU is the fastest-growing leader in the multi-cloud and SaaS data protection as a service industry. By bringing true SaaS-based data backup and recovery to on-premises, cloud-native and SaaS environments, the company provides unparalleled data protection, migration, disaster recovery, and ransomware protection to thousands of companies worldwide. As an award-winning and recognized visionary in the industry, HYCU solutions eliminate complexity, risk, and the high cost of legacy-based solutions, providing data protection simplicity to make the world safer. With an industry leading NPS score of 91, customers experience frictionless, cost-effective data protection, anywhere, everywhere. HYCU has raised $140M in VC funding to date and is based in Boston, Mass. Learn more at www.hycu.com. Attachment FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla., Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Avoya Travel, one of the travel industrys most innovative brands, is thrilled to announce the engagement of Phil Cappelli as the companys Chief Sales Officer (CSO). The addition of Cappelli, a highly respected executive leader across the travel industry, will propel Avoyas ascension as it continues to deliver record-breaking results. The CSO role is a new addition to Avoyas Strategic Leadership Team and demonstrates Avoyas forward-thinking ambitions and tremendous opportunities for top-tier talent in the travel industry. Cappellis stellar reputation, relationships, and experience will play a pivotal role in ensuring Avoya continues to flourish in an evolving marketplace. As CSO, Cappelli will lead and accelerate the growth of the company through the planning and execution of high-growth initiatives such as expanding the companys Independent Agency Network, deepening partnerships with suppliers, opening doors for the company to make strategic acquisitions, and developing the products and services that set Avoya apart. Cappelli will oversee an extensive team of over 100 employees including Steve Hirshan, Senior Vice President of Sales; Ashley Hunter, Senior Vice President of Partnerships; and their respective teams. We couldnt be more excited to welcome Phil to the Avoya Team and this marks another significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence, said Jeff Anderson, Co-CEO of Avoya Travel. His unmatched qualifications and extensive experience will enhance operations and expand what we can deliver to travelers, Independent Agencies, and suppliers. Phils past accomplishments and future potential put him in a category of one and I have no doubt he will embody Avoyas culture of excellence as he boldly pursues the vast ambitions we share together. Cappelli enters his new role with 25 years of experience in the travel industry, most recently serving as the Senior Vice President, Preferred Partnerships at Signature Travel Network. Prior to that, he held the position of USA President at Insight Vacations and Luxury Gold, as well as a number of management roles at Tauck World Discovery. Cappelli earned his Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences from Mount Ida College. Originally hailing from Wilton, Connecticut, he lives in Belleair, Florida with his wife and their three children. I am incredibly optimistic about what the future holds for Avoya Travel and am absolutely thrilled to take on the newly created position of Chief Sales Officer, said Cappelli. Avoyas peerless innovation, best-in-class marketing and technology capabilities, and pristine reputation in the industry made the opportunity a perfect fit. Im honored to play a role in Avoyas long-term plans for aggressive expansion and look forward to working with all of the exceptionally talented staff, Independent Agencies, and suppliers that make up the Avoya Family. Cappellis appointment comes as Avoya continues to see historic growth across its platform. Avoya recently announced that year-over-year bookings have increased by an impressive 78% from January to July when compared with 2022. Contributing to this growth is Avoyas increasing investment in its people, leadership, and the development of talent from within the company to promote innovation in the future of vacation planning. To learn more visit: www.AvoyaNetwork.com About Avoya Travel Avoya Travel is a vacation platform company which is redefining how vacations are booked by providing unmatched resources, services, proprietary technology, and patented solutions to thousands of companies including cruise lines, tour companies, resorts, and the Independent Agencies in the Avoya Network. Through its innovative model and vast demand channels, Avoya utilizes powerful marketing technology and data intelligence, alongside its patented Live Leads program, to connect travelers with independent travel advisors who deliver personalized service and value throughout the vacation planning and booking process. Avoya continues to develop groundbreaking technology solutions to offer travelers access to exclusive discounts and amenities in partnership with travel suppliers. Avoya has won numerous awards for its technology and services, including holding multiple patents, and serves travelers in North America and beyond. With the increasing complexities of planning and booking vacations, the travel agency profession has experienced an extraordinary comeback. Professionals interested in starting their own travel business should contact Avoya Travel at 800-521-2597 or visit www.AvoyaNetwork.com. Travelers interested in booking their next vacation with an expert Independent Agency in the Avoya Network should call 800-753-1463 or visit www.AvoyaTravel.com. Media Contact: PublicRelations@AvoyaTravel.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5701325b-a633-4b8f-8a49-0a723e52b623 Bombardiers Diamond certification is granted to suppliers who demonstrated outstanding operational performance and competitiveness in 2022 This is the fifth consecutive year Bombardier has awarded suppliers through this program Bombardier continues to successfully collaborate with its suppliers to promote supply chain stability MONTREAL, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bombardier has awarded 18 of its suppliers with the prestigious Diamond certification, in recognition of their commitment to excellence in operational performance for 2022, as well as for their dedication to continuous improvement. Bombardier will present the awards for outstanding effort to its Diamond suppliers during a ceremony to be held in Montreal on September 18, 2023. We rely on the hard work of our valued suppliers to help us manufacture and service the worlds best business jets for our customers, said Shauna Gamble, Chief Procurement Officer, Bombardier. Our business partners are key to our continued success, and we are pleased to be able to celebrate their achievements for the fifth year in a row through our Diamond Supplier Program. The 18 winners of Bombardiers 2022 Diamond certification have each demonstrated their commitment to maintaining strong and successful operations, despite global supply chain disruption. The Bombardier Diamond Supplier Program rewards suppliers that strive for excellence through continuous improvement and innovation, said Eric Filion, Executive Vice President, Programs and Supply Chain, Bombardier. Our successful collaboration with suppliers allows us to build and maintain long-term relationships that benefit our customers, facilities, and worldwide service network. Suppliers are recognized across three categories Production, Indirect Goods and Services, and Aftermarket. Bombardier Diamond Suppliers have met the operational performance and competitiveness levels needed to qualify in these specific categories for the 2022 calendar year. These suppliers are: Production: Aerospace Technologies Group F. List Austria F. List Canada Placeteco Plastiques Flexibulb Sealth Aero Marine ShinMaywa Industries, Aircraft Division Indirect Goods and Services: AAA-Canada Avis Budget Group Axiscades Technology Canada Capgemini Canada IBM Canada Kuehne + Nagel MSB, Ressources Globales Aero NAD Global TATA Consultancy Services Canada Willis Towers Watson Aftermarket: F. List UK Plastiques Flexibulb The world-class performance and competitiveness of Bombardier business aircraft and the companys track record of excellence and innovation are achieved through the collaborative efforts with suppliers and by building valued partnerships based on trust and respect. For more information about this program, please visit: Bombardiers Diamond Supplier Program web page. About Bombardier Bombardier (BBD-B.TO) is a global leader in aviation, focused on designing, manufacturing, and servicing the world's most exceptional business jets. Bombardiers Challenger and Global aircraft families are renowned for their cutting-edge innovation, cabin design, performance, and reliability. Bombardier has a worldwide fleet of approximately 5,000 aircraft in service with a wide variety of multinational corporations, charter and fractional ownership providers, governments, and private individuals. Bombardier aircraft are also trusted around the world in government and military special-mission roles leveraging Bombardier Defenses proven expertise. Headquartered in Greater Montreal, Quebec, Bombardier operates aerostructure, assembly and completion facilities in Canada, the United States and Mexico. The companys robust customer support network services the Learjet, Challenger and Global families of aircraft, and includes facilities in strategic locations in the United States and Canada, as well as in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, the UAE, Singapore, China and Australia. For corporate news and information, including Bombardiers Environmental, Social and Governance report, as well as the companys plans to cover all its flight operations with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) utilizing the Book and Claim system visit bombardier.com. Learn more about Bombardiers industry-leading products and customer service network at businessaircraft.bombardier.com. Follow us on Twitter @Bombardier. Bombardier, Learjet, Challenger and Global are registered trademarks of Bombardier Inc. For Information Stephanie Faraggi Bombardier +1 514 513 7830 stephanie.faraggi@aero.bombardier.com Wilmington, Delaware, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Australia Automated Material Handling Equipment Market was valued at US$ 612 million in 2022 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR of over 9.3% over the forecast period of 2023-2030, according to the latest market report by RationalStat Market Definition, Market Scope, and Report Overview AMHE refers to a wide range of technology and systems used in industrial and logistics environments to automate the movement, storage, retrieval, and transportation of materials, products, and goods within a facility or warehouse. AMHE has the potential to dramatically increase the efficiency and productivity of material handling activities. They can work around the clock, decrease the need for physical labor, and handle materials with precision and speed. The increasing rise of e-commerce has created the demand for order fulfillment and delivery systems that are efficient. AMHE is critical for streamlining these activities and satisfying customer expectations for timely and accurate delivery. According to a deep-dive market assessment by RationalStat, the Australia automated material handling equipment market has been analyzed on the basis of market segments, including product, system, vertical, and geography/regions (including Western Australia, Southern Australia, Eastern Australia, Northern and Central Australia) . The report also offers Australia and regional market sizing for the historical period of 2019-2022 and the forecast period of 2023-2030. . The report also offers Australia and regional market sizing for the historical period of 2019-2022 and the forecast period of 2023-2030. Market intelligence for the Australia automated material handling equipment market covers market sizes on the basis of market value (US$/EUR Million) and volume (Units) 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 Australia automated material handling equipment 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. Request A Customization- https://store.rationalstat.com/store/australia-automated-material-handling-equipment-market/#tab-ux_global_tab Australia Automated Material Handling Equipment Market: Segmental and Market Share Analysis On the basis of product, in 2022, the robots segment led the market with a 24% revenue share. The sector is expected to have the most market share throughout the projection period. The use of AI and ML technologies in robotic systems is propelling the AMH equipment market forward. On the basis of vertical, in 2022, the e-commerce segment led the market, accounting for more than 18% of total sales. One of the fastest-growing industries, e-commerce relies on AMH equipment to optimize warehouse and fulfilment processes. Report Synopsis Report Metrics Details Base Year 2022 Forecast Period 2023-2030 Base Year Market Size US$ 612 million Market Size Forecast US$ 1,245 million Growth Rate 9.3% Key Market Drivers E-commerce expansion Rising labor costs and lack of availability of labor for manual tasks Increases workplace safety Automation results in reduction in human errors Companies Profiled SSI SCHAFER Dematic Group Honeywell International Inc. Swisslog Holding AG Vanderlande Industries B.V. Interroll Group KNAPP AG Bastian Solutions, LLC BEUMER Group GmbH & Co. KG Explore more about this report- https://store.rationalstat.com/store/australia-automated-material-handling-equipment-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 Australia automated material handling equipment market include, In December 2022, Daifuku announced the development of a new manufacturing plant at its subsidiary Vega Conveyors and Automation Private Limited (Vega) in Hyderabad, Telangana, India. In September 2022, Toyota Material Handling Japan, a branch of Toyota Industries Corporation, introduced an autonomous lift truck using AI-based technology that recognizes the location and position of vehicles and cargo autonomously. Some of the prominent players and suppliers operating and contributing significantly to the Australia automated material handling equipment market growth include SSI SCHAFER, Dematic Group, Honeywell International Inc., Swisslog Holding AG, Vanderlande Industries B.V., Interroll Group, KNAPP AG, Bastian Solutions, LLC, and BEUMER Group GmbH & Co. KG, among others. Get A Free Sample- https://store.rationalstat.com/store/australia-automated-material-handling-equipment-market/#tab-ux_global_tab RationalStat has segmented the Australia automated material handling equipment market based on product, system, vertical and region Australia Automated Material Handling Equipment Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Units) and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Product Robots Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) Conveyors Systems Sortation Systems Cranes Warehouse Management System Collaborative Robots Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR) Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) Tow Vehicle Pallet Truck Forklift Truck Hybrid Vehicles Unit Load Carrier Australia Automated Material Handling Equipment Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Units) and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by System Unit Load Material Handling Bulk Load Material Handling Australia Automated Material Handling Equipment Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Units) and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Vertical Automotive Semiconductor & Electronics E-Commerce 3PL Metals & Heavy Machinery Food & Beverages Chemicals Healthcare Aviation Australia Automated Material Handling Equipment Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Units) and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Region Australia Automated Material Handling Equipment Market Western Australia Southern Australia Eastern Australia Northern and Central Australia For more information about this report- https://store.rationalstat.com/store/australia-automated-material-handling-equipment-market/ Key Questions Answered in the Automated Material Handling Equipment Report: What will be the market value of the Australia automated material handling equipment market by 2030? What is the market size of the Australia automated material handling equipment market? What are the market drivers of the Australia automated material handling equipment market? What are the key trends in the Australia automated material handling equipment market? Which is the leading region in the Australia automated material handling equipment market? What are the major companies operating in the Australia automated material handling equipment market? What are the market shares by key segments in the Australia automated material handling equipment 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. Download Key Insights and Market Data - Raise a Query About RationalStat LLC RationalStat is an end-to-end Australia 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 Australia 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 Washington, D.C., Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Invoking the contentious qualified immunity doctrine, state courts in Rhode Island prevented Rhode Island College (RIC) officials from facing civil liability for violating a students First Amendment rights to free speech and expression. The officials had expelled NCLAs client, William Felkner, for refusing to parrot the schools progressive ideological perspective on social work. Today, NCLA petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court for a writ of certiorari in William Felkner v. John Nazarian, et al., asking the Justices to reexamine the doctrine and abolish the ahistorical standard for qualified immunity that requires violations of the law to be clearly established via prior court precedents before officials can be held to account. In particular, Felkners petition asks the justices to decide whether deskbound officials, who have time to consider the law and to consult legal counsel, deserve qualified immunity for violating peoples rights. Unlike officers in the field, school officials do not have to make split-second, life-or-death decisions with limited information. The faculty of the public RICs Master of Social Work program were hostile to then-student William Felkners conservative/libertarian views, repeatedly hindering, for ideological reasons, his progression through the program until the interim dean dismissed him from the program entirely in 2008. One professor even tried to force Mr. Felkner to advocate for legislation he personally opposed and failed him when he argued instead for the bills defeat. In 2019, the Supreme Court of Rhode Island decided that Mr. Felkner presented sufficient evidence to establish that university officials in fact had violated his rights to free speech and expression. However, on remand, the Rhode Island Superior Court granted the RIC officials qualified immunity because it was not clearly established ahead of time that their conduct would violate Mr. Felkners free speech rights. The Supreme Court of Rhode Island upheld that ruling on a second appeal to that court, relying on the clearly established law standard to question whether a reasonable educator would have understood what they were doing violated a students constitutional rights. NCLA urges the U.S. Supreme Court to take account of recent scholarship which concludes that qualified immunity has been textually unmoored and historically flawed since its creation, and to reconsider whether the doctrine still serves any positive goals. The Court should recognize that the clearly established law standard lacks a textual or historical basis and has proven unworkable, forcing the justices to correct lower courts mistakes repeatedly while providing little more than I know it when I see it guidance. Hence, the Court should discard the doctrine, at least as applied to officials with ample time to research the law before violating someones rights. NCLA released the following statements: This judge-made doctrine, concocted a century after post-Civil War legislation intended to protect Americans civil rights, allows government officials not only to deprive Americans of their civil liberties, but encourages unprecedented new incursions. Any rule creating such perverse incentives must be abandoned. Peggy Little, Senior Litigation Counsel, NCLA Qualified immunity doctrine runs contrary to the will of Congress, stunts the development of constitutional law, and encourages government officials to disrespect citizens constitutional rights. And it does all of it while increasing, rather than decreasing, litigation costs. It is time for the Court to abrogate this ill-considered doctrine. Greg Dolin, Senior Litigation Counsel, NCLA The Supreme Court has yet to address the fundamental flaws with the clearly established law standardflaws conservatives and liberals alike condemn and ones which recent academic scholarship confirms. Margot Cleveland, Of Counsel, NCLA For more information visit the case page here. ABOUT NCLA NCLA is a nonpartisan, nonprofit civil rights group founded by prominent legal scholar Philip Hamburger to protect constitutional freedoms from violations by the Administrative State. NCLAs public-interest litigation and other pro bono advocacy strive to tame the unlawful power of state and federal agencies and to foster a new civil liberties movement that will help restore Americans fundamental rights. ### Perth, Sept. 18, 2023 - PERSEUS EXTENDS LIFE OF YAOURE GOLD MINE TO 2035 Perth, Western Australia/September 18, 2023/Perseus Mining Ltd. (ASX/TSX: PRU) is pleased to announce an updated Life of Mine Plan ("LOMP") for its Yaoure Gold Mine in Cote d'Ivoire, West Africa ("Yaoure"). HIGHLIGHTS Perseus has extended Yaoure's operational life to 12+ years (to at least 2035), with potential for further extension through additional discoveries adjacent to existing infrastructure and further resource definition drilling of known deposits, including the Yaoure open pit and CMA underground ("CMA UG") structure. Yaoure's updated LOMP incorporates for the first time an UG mining operation below the CMA Open Pit, as well as the existing CMA Open Pit and an expanded Yaoure Open Pit. Yaoure Gold Mine Ore Reserves 1,2 now total 37.2 million tonnes of ore grading 1.73 g/t gold, containing 2.07 million ounces of gold from open pits and underground. now total 37.2 million tonnes of ore grading 1.73 g/t gold, containing 2.07 million ounces of gold from open pits and underground. Updated Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources 1 are estimated at 54.7 million tonnes grading 1.59 g/t gold, containing 2.80 million ounces of gold. Inferred Resources 1 are estimated at 11.3 million tonnes, grading 1.9 g/t gold, containing 0.70 million ounces of gold. are estimated at 54.7 million tonnes grading 1.59 g/t gold, containing 2.80 million ounces of gold. Inferred Resources are estimated at 11.3 million tonnes, grading 1.9 g/t gold, containing 0.70 million ounces of gold. CMA UG Ore Reserves are based on drilling to 185m below the base of the CMA open pit, with Inferred Mineral Resources extending to 350m below the base of the pit and remaining open down plunge and at depth. Key parameters arising from the revised LOMP for Yaoure Gold Mine are as follows: Key Parameters Units Annual Average FY24 - FY29 Annual Average FY30 - FY35 September 2023 LOMP 1,2 Total Ore + waste mined Mt 28.6 1.04 176.4 Strip ratio t:t 4.7 : 1 0.2 : 14 3.8 : 1 Ore processed Mt 3.5 3.4 41.9 Head grade g/t gold 2.0 1.1 1.58 Gold recovery rate % 91.6 89.8 90.8 Gold production Moz 0.210 0.110 1.93 Production costs US$/oz 949 1,002 969 Royalty 3 US$/oz 87 85 86 Sustaining capital US$/oz 68 47 61 Average All-in site costs US$/oz 1,104 1,134 1,116 CMA UG pre-production & ongoing mine development 5 US$M 98.8 5.3 104.1 CMA UG infrastructure US$M 27.6 - 27.6 CMA UG Development Capital US$M 126.34 5.3 131.7 Notes: For detailed disclosures on updated Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves estimates refer to ASX Release "Perseus Mining Announces Open Pit and Underground Ore Reserve Growth at Yaoure", dated 23 August 2023. Mineral Resources are inclusive of Ore Reserves. Assumes gold price of US$1,500 /oz for Reserve calculation in September 2023 LOMP. Assumes a flat gold price of US$1,700 /oz for royalty calculation in September 2023 LOMP. CMA UG Mining in September 2023 LOMP ends in FY34 hence average is calculated over 5 years FY30 to FY34. All CMA UG Mining costs are capitalised in accordance with IFRS up to declaration of Commercial Production in H2 FY27. Perseus's Managing Director and CEO Jeff Quartermaine said: "Our increase to the life of Yaoure Gold Mine to 12+ years announced today ensures Yaoure will continue to be an important part of Perseus's geopolitically diverse asset portfolio for many years to come and will enable us to continue delivering on our Corporate Mission of generating material benefits for all of our stakeholders, including our host governments and communities. When Perseus acquired Yaoure as a development project in 2016, the possibility of extending the life of the mine through development of an underground operation was not part of the plan. However, our discovery, and subsequent engineering and planning, that has led to today's announcement, bears testament to Perseus's in-house ability to create significant value through organic growth. An underground mine planned for Yaoure, will be Perseus's first foray into underground mining, with all previous operations having been open cut operations. While the underground mine represents a new style of mining and a new challenge for us as a company, it is certainly not new to many of our technical team members, who are very keen to demonstrate their skills in an underground mining setting. With the prospect of further extending the mine life through further exploration success, we expect that the Yaoure Mine will live up to its reputation as one of the leading mines in Cote d'Ivoire, if not in all of West Africa." Competent Person Statement: All production targets referred to in this report are underpinned by estimated Ore Reserves which have been prepared by competent persons in accordance with the requirements of the JORC Code. The current Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves for the Yaoure Gold Mine have most recently been reported by the Company in a market announcement released on 23 August 2023. The Company confirms that all material assumptions underpinning those estimates and the production targets, or the forecast financial information derived therefrom, in that market release continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Company further confirms that material assumptions underpinning the estimates of Ore Reserves described in "Technical Report - Yaoure Gold Project, Cote d'Ivoire" dated 18 December 2017 continue to apply. Caution Regarding Forward Looking Information: This report contains forward-looking information which is based on the assumptions, estimates, analysis and opinions of management made in light of its experience and its perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management of the Company believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date that such statements are made, but which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made by the Company regarding, among other things: the price of gold, continuing commercial production at the Yaoure Gold Mine, the Edikan Gold Mine and the Sissingue Gold Mine without any major disruption, the receipt of required governmental approvals, the accuracy of capital and operating cost estimates, the ability of the Company to operate in a safe, efficient and effective manner and the ability of the Company to obtain financing as and when required and on reasonable terms. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive of all factors and assumptions which may have been used by the Company. Although management believes that the assumptions made by the Company and the expectations represented by such information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking information will prove to be accurate. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others, the actual market price of gold, the actual results of current exploration, the actual results of future exploration, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be evaluated, as well as those factors disclosed in the Company's publicly filed documents. The Company believes that the assumptions and expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the Company's ability to carry on its exploration and development activities, the timely receipt of required approvals, the price of gold, the ability of the Company to operate in a safe, efficient and effective manner and the ability of the Company to obtain financing as and when required and on reasonable terms. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Perseus does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. REGISTERED OFFICE: Level 2 437 Roberts Road Subiaco WA 6008 Telephone: +61 8 6144 1700 Email: IR@perseusmining.com WWW.PERSEUSMINING.COM CONTACTS: Jeff Quartermaine Managing Director & CEO jeff.quartermaine@perseusmining.com Nathan Ryan Media Relations +61 4 20 582 887 nathan.ryan@nwrcommunications.com.au Attachment HIGHLIGHTS 1,000 metres at 2.6% TREO in KGKDD009 with multiple standout intercepts including: 805.26 metres @ 2.90% TREO from 152.85 metres, including 652.41 metres @ 3.0% TREO from 347.59 metres to end of hole (EOH), ~700 metres below base of current resource estimate, including 288 metres @ 3.5% TREO from 711 metres to EOH demonstrating higher grade mineralisation at depth Hole ends in high grade mineralisation The intersection extends about 700 metres vertically below the base of the Mineral Resource Estimate envelope reported in August 2023 Average grade of rare earths critical metal elements neodymium-praseodymium (NdPr) of ~18.2% of TREO In addition to the results from the second deep drill hole, assay results have been received for KGKRCDD083 of 325 metres @2.49% TREO and averaging ~20% NdPr; this has provided valuable information on the undrilled western boundary of the carbonatite, showing that mineralisation extends further west than originally thought (see figure 3) The 2 deep holes drilled demonstrate the massive potential of the Kangankunde mineralised carbonatite system that remains open in all directions including depth A phase 3 drill program has commenced and is designed as an infill program to define a portion of the current resource as Indicated resources for mine development feasibility studies Results of the two deep drill holes will form the basis for an Exploration Target to be published in the near term Update on Kangankunde Stage One Project workstreams are pending. Lindian's Executive Chairman, Asimwe Kabunga commented: "Kangankunde's scale continues to grow and this is attracting the interest of a number of parties seeking to secure offtake from our planned Stage 1 operation. While we continue to advance discussions with a number of parties our efforts are now firmly on mine development works with an update on progress due in the near future. Whilst some follow up exploration is warranted at Kangankunde, which we will do in parallel with mine development works, our immediate focus is infill drilling to support the first stage of mine development. We are well into this workstream and will report on results as we update shareholders on mine development." Lindian's Chief Executive Officer, Alistair Stephens commented: "These assays from the second deep drill hole reinforce all of Kangankande's key characteristics - high grade mineralisation consistent across very thick intercepts, a favourable NdPr ratio and a non-radioactive concentrate for transportation. A standout from this hole is the very high grade mineralisation at depth, and the fact that the hole ended at 1,000 metres in mineralisation exceeding 3.2% TREO; This adds to Kangankunde's potential scale and the quality of its mineralisation. We will incorporate these results into our planned Exploration Target for Kangankunde." SYDNEY, Sept. 17, 2023 - Lindian Resources Ltd. (ASX:LIN) ("Lindian" or "the Company") is pleased to advise of the receipt of assay results from KGKDD009, the second of two holes in the Phase 2 depth extension exploration drilling program, and drill hole KGKRCDD083, at the Kangankunde Rare Earths Project, Malawi. These Phase 2 deep drill holes demonstrate mineralisation extends below the envelope of the maiden Minerals Resource Estimate of 261 million tonnes at 2.19% TREO (refer ASX release dated 3rd August 2023). Kangankunde Rare Earths Project Mineral Resource Above 0.5% TREO Cut-off Grade Resource Classification Tonnes (millions) TREO (%) NdPr% of TREO** (%) Tonnes Contained NdPr* (millions) Inferred Resource 261 2.19 20.2 1.2 Rounding has been applied to 1.0Mt for tonnes and 0.1% NdPr% of TREO which may influence total calculation. Refer competent persons statement * NdPr = Nd 2 O 3 + Pr 6 O 11 , ** NdPrO% / TREO% x 100. DRILLING RESULTS Both holes reported in this release were planned to test the depth extensions of the mineralisation. KGKDD009 was successfully completed to its design dept of 1,000 metres. KGKRCDD083 was stopped at 325 metres due to excessive hole deviation. This hole was mineralised from surface and has provided valuable information on the undrilled western boundary of the carbonatite. KGKDD009 Hole KGKDD009 is a core hole drilled from surface on the northern end of the Kangankunde rare earth deposit central carbonatite. The hole was drilled on an azimuth of 182 at a dip of -65 degrees and designed to test the northern mineralisation of the deposit to a vertical depth of over 1,000 metres below the hilltop surface and 700 metres below the current mineral resource estimate depth limit. (Figure 1). The hole was collared toward the base of the Kangankunde hill. The hole intersected mineralised breccia from surface with the initial 64.82 metre intersection consisting of mixed gneiss and carbonatite breccia averaging 2.04% TREO. This interval was followed by 129.92 metres of wall rock gneiss breccia with intermittent narrow high-grade zones of carbonatite, as veins, or carbonatite clasts within the breccia and averages 1.06% TREO. From 194.74 metres down hole the rock type becomes dominantly carbonatite, initially as a mixed breccia with increasing carbonatite content and rare earth content with depth. This rock type is the main carbonatite core of the deposit and is highly mineralised, averaging 2.89% over 805.26 metre intersection to the end of hole (EOH). The grade increases in tenor and consistency with depth with the lower 288.08 metres from 711.92 metres to 1,000 metres (EOH) averaging 3.50% TREO. Intersection details are listed in Table 1, and a cross section showing this hole with previously reported Phase 1 holes and the current MRE limit is shown in cross section Figure 1 and plan in Figure 3. The variation in TREO grade relative to rock type and the increase in consistency and tenor of grade is demonstrated in Figure 2 below. Table 1 KGKDD009 Intersections Summary Hole ID From (m) To (m) Intersection (m) TREO % NdPrO** ppm NdPrO% of TREO*** Rock Type KGKDD009 0 1,000 1,000 2.60 4,726 18.2 including 0 64.82 64.82 2.04 3,605 17.7 Mixed breccia 64.82 194.74 129.92 1.06 2,303 21.7 Wall rock breccia 194.74 1,000 805.26 2.90 5,199 18.0 Carbonatite including 711.92 1,000 288.08 3.50 6,097 17.4 Carbonatite Bold text entire hole no cut-off applied; internal intersections accumulated based on geological zonation no cutoff applied. ** NdPrO = Nd 2 O 3 + Pr 6 O 11, *** NdPrO% / TREO% x 100 KGKRCDD083 KGKRCDD083 was planned to be drilled from west to east on an azimuth of 090 and dip of -50 degrees. The hole was terminated at 325 metres depth due to excessive hole deviation (Figure 3). This drilling included a 150 metre RC pre-collar that intersected a mineralised carbonatite wall rock breccia (mixed breccia) from surface (the pre-collar has been previously reported as 150 metres @ 2.41% TREO, refer ASX release dated 31 July 2023). This high-grade mineralisation has led to the western boundary of the mineralisation being extended 100 metres to the west of previous interpretation and was included in the current MRE. The core tail drilled from 150 to 325 metres (EOH) is mineralised in a mixed breccia and carbonatite rock types as bands including 132.51 metres at 2.84% TREO from 192.49 metres to EOH. Table 2 KGKRCDD083 Assay intervals Hole ID From (m) To (m) Intersection (m) TREO % NdPrO** ppm NdPrO% of TREO*** Comment KGKRCDD083 0 325 325 2.49 4.913 19.7 % including 0 150 150 2.41 5,338 18.6 % RC precollar**** including 75 102 27 4.16 9,403 19.9 % RC precollar**** then 192.49 325 132.51 2.84 4,935 17.4 % Core tail Bold text entire hole no cut-off applied; internal intersections accumulated at > 2% TREO cut-off. ** NdPrO = Nd 2 O 3 + Pr 6 O 11, *** NdPrO% / TREO% x 100 **** Previousy reported PHASE 2 PROGRAM STATUS All results from the Phase 2 program have been received. Table 3: Completed drill hole sampling and assay status at 18th September 2023 Hole Number Reported ALS Geochemistry (Australia) ALS Geochemistry (South Africa) In transit (Malawi to South Africa) At Kangankunde Site KGKRC083 Pre-collar ? KGKRC083 Core tail ? KGKDD009 Core hole ? KGKRCDD074 Entire hole ? PHASE 3 DRILLING A phase 3 drill program has commenced and is designed as an infill program to define a portion of the current Inferred Resource as Indicated resources for mine development feasibility studies. This ASX announcement was authorised for release by the Board of Lindian Resources Ltd.. Competent Person's Statement The information in this Report that relates to drilling, sampling, and assay results is based on information compiled by Mr. Alistair Stephens, who is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM). Mr. Stephens is the Chief Executive Officer of Lindian Resources Ltd.. Mr. Stephens has sufficient experience relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the 'Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves' (JORC Code). Mr. Stephens consents to the inclusion in this report of the matters based on the information in the form and context in which it appears. Unless otherwise stated, where reference is made to previous releases of exploration results in this announcement, the Company conforms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in those announcements and all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the exploration results included in those announcements continue to apply and have not materially changed. The information in this report that relates to previous Exploration Results was prepared and first disclosed under the JORC Code 2012 and has been properly and extensively cross-referenced in the text to the date of the original announcement to the ASX. The Competent Persons' consents remain in place for subsequent releases by the Company of the same information in the same form and context, until the consents are withdrawn or replaced by a subsequent report and accompanying consent. The Company is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information in the ASX announcement of 3 August 2023 originally referencing its resources estimate, and that all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates continue to apply and have not materially changed. Forward Looking Statements This announcement may include forward-looking statements, based on Lindian's expectations and beliefs concerning future events. Forward-looking statements are necessarily subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside the control of Lindian, which could cause actual results to differ materially from such statements. Lindian makes no undertaking to subsequently update or revise the forward-looking statements made in this announcement, to reflect the circumstances or events after the date of the announcement. About Lindian RARE EARTHS Lindian Resources Ltd. has ownership of Malawian registered Rift Valley Resource Developments Limited that has 100% title to Exploration Licence EPL0514/18R and Mining Licence MML0290/22, supported by an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Licence No.2:10:16. In August 2023, Lindian released its maiden Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) for the Kangankunde Rare Earths Project in Malawi of 261 million tonnes averaging 2.19% TREO above a 0.5% TREO, refer ASX announcement of 3 August 2023. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/second-deep-drill-hole-intercepts-1-000-metres-of-mineralisation-grading-2-6-treo-301929901.html SOURCE Lindian Resources EXPLORATION FIELDWORK UNDERWAY Trading Symbol: TSXV: NAR VANCOUVER, Sept. 18, 2023 - North Arrow Minerals Inc. (TSXV: NAR) ("North Arrow") is pleased to report initial lithium assays from spodumene pegmatites discovered in July at the company's 100% owned LDG Property, Northwest Territories, and that mobilization is underway for a fall exploration program at the property. Highlights of today's news include: Five of seven representative grab samples from the SD4 spodumene pegmatite have returned from 1.10% Li 2 O to 2.17% Li 2 O. O to 2.17% Li O. Seven of eight rock sawn channel samples from the SD2 spodumene pegmatite have returned from 0.40% Li 2 O to 1.70% Li 2 O. O to 1.70% Li O. Based on mapping of low-relief outcrop exposures, SD2 and SD4 are interpreted as steeply dipping (75-80 degrees) feldspar-quartz-muscovite-spodumene pegmatites, estimated at 10-20 m wide and over 400 m in strike length. The pegmatites are located approximately 2 km apart and remain open below overburden along strike. Spodumene is coarse grained and locally abundant in both pegmatites, reaching 15-20% in some outcrops. Follow up exploration field work is underway with planned work to include mapping, prospecting and ground magnetic surveys as well as spotting initial proposed drill holes ahead of a spring 2024 exploration drill program. Ken Armstrong, President and CEO of North Arrow commented "We are pleased to confirm significant lithium assays from the SD2 and SD4 spodumene pegmatites discovered this summer at North Arrow's LDG lithium property. Unfortunately, plans for drilling the property in September were suspended as a result of the wildfires impacting residents of the NWT. However, with thanks to the tremendous work of fire fighters, numerous volunteers and governments, NWT residents are safely returning to their communities, and we are able to renew field work focused on understanding the size potential of these pegmatites, as well as prospecting for new discoveries within this highly prospective area." The LDG property covers an 18 km corridor of underexplored metasedimentary rocks located adjacent to a fertile, two-mica granite, very similar in age and setting to the host rocks of the spodumene pegmatites of the Yellowknife Pegmatite Province. At LDG, less than seven kilometres of this prospective trend have been prospected to date and, in addition to SD2 and SD4, at least five other pegmatites, up to 50 m wide, have been identified and require further mapping and sampling to understand their potential to host significant lithium mineralization. Located within 5 km of the winter road infrastructure connecting Yellowknife with the Lac de Gras region, the size potential and lithium mineralization of the SD2 and SD4 pegmatites highlight the potential of the LDG property to host a significant spodumene lithium discovery on par with the Yellowknife Pegmatite Province. Current field work is expected to include prospecting for additional spodumene pegmatites, bedrock mapping, rock and soil sampling and ground magnetic surveys. Sample Collection, Laboratory Procedures and QA/QC Samples were collected in the field from rock sawn channels or as representative grab samples using a rock hammer. Channel samples were cut using a portable rock saw, with sampled material collected at 1 m intervals, chipped from between parallel incisions cut nominally 3-4 cm apart and 3-4 cm deep. Individual channel and grab samples were collected into plastic polymer bags, sealed and transported to ALS Global, where sample preparation and analytical work was conducted. Samples were prepared using ALS method CRU-31 (crushing to 70% passing through a 2 mm screen), SPL-21 (split sample - riffle split), and PUL-31 (pulverize up to 250 g to 85% passing through a 75-micron screen). A 0.2 g subsample of the pulverized material was analyzed for 52 elements using a sodium peroxide fusion by ICP-MS (ALS method ME-MS89L). Samples returning >500ppm Li were also assayed using a 0.2 g subsample dissolved in a sodium peroxide solution and analyzed for lithium according to ALS method Li-ICP81. Lithium results are reported by the lab as % Li and have been multiplied by 2.153 to convert to % Li 2 O. Results passed QA/QC screening at ALS. About North Arrow Minerals North Arrow is a Canadian based exploration company focused on the identification and evaluation of lithium and other exploration opportunities in Canada. North Arrow's management, board of directors and advisors have significant successful experience in the global exploration and mining industry. North Arrow is evaluating spodumene pegmatites at its 100% owned LDG, MacKay, and DeStaffany Lithium Projects (NWT) and is also exploring for lithium in Nunavut at the Bathurst Inlet pegmatite field and continues work to identify additional lithium exploration opportunities in northern Canada. North Arrow also owns interests in the Naujaat (NU), Pikoo (SK), and Loki (NWT) Diamond Projects and maintains a 100% interest in the Hope Bay Oro Gold Project, located approximately 3 km north of Agnico Eagle's Doris Gold Mine, Nunavut. North Arrow's exploration programs are conducted under the direction of Kenneth Armstrong, P.Geo. (NT/NU, ON), President and CEO of North Arrow and a Qualified Person under NI 43-101. Mr. Armstrong has reviewed and approved the technical contents of this press release. North Arrow Minerals Inc. /s/ "Kenneth A. Armstrong" Kenneth Armstrong President and CEO Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains "forward-looking statements" including but not limited to statements with respect to North Arrow's plans, the estimation of a mineral resource and the success of exploration activities. Forward-looking statements, while based on management's best estimates and assumptions, are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: risks related to the successful integration of acquisitions; risks related to general economic and market conditions; closing of financing; the timing and content of upcoming work programs; actual results of proposed exploration activities; possible variations in mineral resources or grade; 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; changes in national and local government regulation of mining operations, tax rules and regulations. Although North Arrow 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. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. North Arrow undertakes no obligation or responsibility to update forward-looking statements, except as required by law. SOURCE North Arrow Minerals Inc. Toronto, September 18, 2023 - Romios Gold Resources Inc. (TSXV: RG) (OTCQB: RMIOF) (FSE: D4R) ("Romios" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the offering of a non-brokered private placement of up to 12,500,000 flow-through units (the "FT Units") priced at $0.03 per FT Unit, for up to $375,000 and up to 12,500,000 working capital units (the "WC Unit") priced at $0.03 per WC Unit, for up to $375,000 (the "Offering"). Proceeds from the offering are expected to be used for exploration of the numerous Copper-Gold-Silver prospects at the Company's 'Golden Triangle' Properties in northwestern British Columbia, including the Trek South Property located along the southern border of the giant Galore Creek project co-owned by Newmont and Teck, as well as its Lundmark-Akow Lake Au-Cu property in Ontario and its Kinkaid Gold-Silver-Copper property in Nevada, and for working capital. Each FT Unit is priced at $0.03 and consists of one (1) flow-through common share and one-half (0.5) of a common share purchase warrant. Each full warrant ("FT Warrant") entitles the holder to purchase one (1) common share (a "FT Warrant Share") at a price of $0.05 per FT Warrant Share until the date which is twenty-four (24) months following the Closing of the Offering. Each WC Unit is priced at $0.03 and consists of one (1) common share and one (1) common share purchase warrant ("WC Warrant"). Each WC Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one (1) common share (a "WC Warrant Share") at a price of $0.08 per WC Warrant Share until the date which is twenty-four (24) months following the Closing of the Offering. Eligible Finders may receive up to 7% of the value of proceeds on the sale of the WC Units and FT Units in cash and up to 7% of the number of FT Units or WC Units sold in the form of broker warrants. Each broker warrant issued in relation to the sale of FT Units and WC Units ("Broker Warrants") entitles the holder to acquire one (1) common share of the Company at a price of $0.05 for twenty-four (24) months from the closing of the Offering. Funds will be used for exploration and working capital. All securities issued under the Offering are subject to a statutory four month hold period. The transaction is subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval. No funds from the sale of WC Units will be used for payments to non-arm's length parties or for investor relations activities. The funds from the sale of the WC Units will be allocated as to 80% for exploration of the Company's property in Nevada and 20% for general working capital. The Company did not proceed with the offering referred to in the press release dated July 21, 2023. This Offering has been priced based upon the current market price for the common shares of the Company. Insiders of the Company may subscribe for up to 25% of the Offering. The insider private placements are exempt from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 ("MI 61-101") by virtue of the exemptions contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1) (a) of MI 61-101 in that the fair market value of the consideration for the securities of the Company which will be issued to the insiders will not exceed 25% of its market capitalization. About Romios Gold Resources Inc. Romios Gold Resources Inc. is a progressive Canadian mineral exploration company engaged in precious- and base-metal exploration, focused primarily on gold, copper and silver. It has a 100% interest in the Lundmark-Akow Lake Au-Cu property plus 4 additional claim blocks in northwestern Ontario and extensive claim holdings covering several significant porphyry copper-gold prospects in the "Golden Triangle" of British Columbia. Additional interests include the Kinkaid claims in Nevada covering numerous Au-Ag-Cu workings and two former producers: the Scossa mine property (Nevada) which is a former high-grade gold producer and the La Corne molybdenum mine property (Quebec). The Company retains an ongoing interest in several properties including a 20% carried interest in five of Honey Badger Mining's claim blocks in the Thunder Bay silver district of northwestern Ontario; a 2% NSR on McEwen Mining's Hislop gold property in Ontario; a 2% NSR on Enduro Metals' Newmont Lake Au-Cu-Ag property in BC, and the Company has signed a definitive agreement with Copperhead Resources Inc. ("Copperhead") whereby Copperhead can acquire a 75% ownership interest in Romios' Red Line Property in BC. For more information, visit www.romios.com As part of our ongoing effort to keep investors, interested parties and stakeholders updated, we have several communication portals. If you have any questions online (Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn) please feel free to send direct messages. To book a one-on-one 30-minute Zoom video call, please click here. For further information, please contact: Stephen Burega, President and CEO - 647-515-3734 or sburega@romios.com This News Release contains forward-looking statements which are typically preceded by, followed by or include the words "believes", "expects", "anticipates", "estimates", "intends", "plans" or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance as they involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements and shareholders are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such statements. TSX Venture Exchange or its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) do not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. NOT FOR DISSEMINATION, DISTRIBUTION, RELEASE, OR PUBLICATION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES OR FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180965 NORTHAMPTON, September 18, 2023 - Suncor Energy We broke new ground when we first began publicly reporting our sustainability performance in the mid-1990s. Twenty-eight years later, our Report on Sustainability and its companion publication, the Climate Report, continue the practice of disclosing our progress in more than a dozen areas of environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance. Read more on our ESG progress in our reports here. We're committed to preserving and promoting biodiversity in all areas where we work. This includes conserving habitat and reclaiming the landscape we've disturbed. Our Approach Throughout the life cycle of our projects, we seek to avoid, minimize, restore and/or offset impacts to biodiversity from our operations. We do this by: incorporating the principles of the mitigation hierarchy, integrated land use and management planning processes into project design, construction, operation, reclamation and closure mapping our disturbance footprint and using monitoring tools such as wildlife sweeps to understand and ensure our development activities avoid sensitive environmental areas and wildlife potentially affected by our activities minimizing disturbances to the greatest extent possible while considering multiple factors, including safety, operations and the environment employing mitigations such as wildlife crossings, low-impact seismic, waste management procedures and managing human-wildlife interaction to reduce conflicts measuring and reporting our performance against the Mining Association of Canada's Towards Sustainable Mining Biodiversity Protocol engaging with local Indigenous communities working internally, with industry peers and with multi-stakeholder organizations to monitor, conserve, restore and reclaim habitat for birds, mammals, fish and other species, including species at risk such as caribou Biodiversity monitoring and evaluation We monitor biodiversity in and around our operations and reclaimed sites in accordance with our regulatory commitments and aligned with broader regional initiatives such as the Canada-Alberta Oil Sands Monitoring (OSM) Program. Reclaimed terrestrial, wetland and aquatic areas are monitored according to site-specific reclamation monitoring plans that assess the components of biodiversity while vegetation regrows and ecosystems develop over time. This monitoring allows us to collect soil, vegetation, wildlife use and water quality information to support reclamation certificate applications once it's determined requirements have been met. We further evaluate biodiversity across our sites through wildlife monitoring. This is conducted in accordance with approved site-level wildlife mitigation plans that include bird deterrents at ponds; the use of wildlife crossings over above-ground pipelines; and strategies to manage human wildlife interactions. Approximately 50% of Suncor's oil sands lease areas in northern Alberta are within or near the range boundaries of the caribou, which is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. These leases are also entirely within the geographic range of little brown bats and are located along the migratory route of whooping cranes. Both species are listed as endangered. Through remote cameras, we are able to monitor wildlife both in reclaimed areas and in proximity to our oil sands operating sites. Notable species observed using reclaimed habitat include the Canadian toad, Canada warbler and olive-sided flycatcher. In collaboration with our industry peers, stakeholders and regulatory agencies, we work with organizations such as the Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute, the OSM Program and Canada's Oil Sands Innovation Alliance (COSIA) to: mitigate and monitor the impacts of our operations, such as waterfowl landings on our tailings facilities understand and reduce the cumulative effects of oil sands development address regional biodiversity risk. Caribou recovery and conservation Complex combinations of natural- and human-caused factors in the oil sands region have created landscape changes and indirectly increased predation, resulting in declining caribou populations. We recognize that we must contribute to caribou recovery and conservation while mitigating our impacts on the environment. We are a member of COSIA's Regional Industry Caribou Collaboration joint industry project. The project works with academics, the Government of Alberta and the Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute Caribou Monitoring Unit to co-ordinate restoration in priority areas, find new ways to improve biodiversity understanding, and restore habitat throughout northeast Alberta. These efforts all play a role in caribou recovery. Land conservation We value multi-stakeholder approaches to address industry impacts on the environment. We have partnered with the Alberta Conservation Association for nearly 20 years through the Boreal Habitat Conservation Initiative to help secure more than 4,000 hectares of ecologically sensitive land across 43 different conservation sites in Alberta. As voluntary offsets, these areas of intact boreal forest and wetlands have served to preserve biodiversity by ensuring the components of the larger boreal forest ecosystem have remained undisturbed. Read more about our commitment to preserving and promoting biodiversity here. Suncor employees installing a wildlife monitoring camera at the MacKay River site. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Suncor Energy on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Suncor Energy Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/suncor-energy Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Suncor Energy View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/785102/biodiversity-at-suncor-2023-report-on-sustainability Althoughreports that Americans' college debt totals nearly $1.6 trillion , second only to home mortgage debt, the issue of higher-education costs has gotten little attention in the homestretch of the presidential campaign, drowned out by conflict over issues ranging from the response to the pandemic to achieving racial justice to how and when to fill a vacant Supreme Court seat.That's not to say that the major-party candidates don't have positions on higher-education costs. Vice President Joe Biden, whose wife Dr. Jill Biden is a community college professor, has proposed extending free public education through at least two years of college and specifically making community colleges free . President Trump is arguing that states should do more because they know best the educational needs of their residents, and his campaign describes Biden's plan as "anything but free" and "socialist." Whoever triumphs in November, it's important to recognize that community colleges occupy a vital and underappreciated place in our system of public higher education. Often called one of America's best-kept secrets , they have been around for nearly 120 years and comprise approximately 50 percent of total college enrollment, but their significance became a focal point during the Obama-Biden administration when they were promoted as a cost-effective means for retraining industrial workers who lost their jobs when factories closed or relocated during the Great Recession.Community colleges, sometimes called technical colleges or other names, provide a varying range of academic offerings. Many are comprehensive two-year institutions that offer pathways for students to transfer to four-year colleges or universities after they receive an associate's degree in a liberal arts or STEM-related (science, technology, engineering and math) field. They also offer technical education for students who plan to immediately enter the workforce upon completion of a certificate or degree in areas like certified nursing assistant or film production assistant.As a former technical college president, I know firsthand the value of community college and technical education. For one, it offers an opportunity for students who have been underprepared for higher education to spend two years in an environment where they are nurtured by instructors who specialize in educating students who are underprepared or late bloomers. Many community colleges also offer an opportunity for students who have dropped out of high school to receive a high-school-equivalency degree such as a General Education Development (GED) diploma or certificate.Community colleges serve as incubators for student learning in other ways. One innovation we advanced at my college was to allow some students to enroll in college and GED courses simultaneously. We discovered that this helped them to earn their GEDs sooner by getting a taste of college courses while taking noncredit, remedial classes. We also encouraged our instructors to contextualize math and reading units to a student's field of study, thereby enabling, for example, welders to learn math geared to that occupation and automotive-mechanics students to take computer science courses in lieu of or in addition to basic math.Community colleges are valuable because they not only are affordable but also provide a path for first-generation college students to attend college and are sensitive to community workforce needs. In my state of Georgia and in 19 other states that offer similar programs, the colleges offer tuition-free grants for students willing to enter into fields with skills shortages such as nursing, welding, commercial truck driving, automotive technology and computer technology. We branded this program as a "poverty fighter," inviting faith-based institutions, community-based organizations, and labor and civil rights groups to assist in marketing it to their constituencies, and enrollment soared.One of my earlier accomplishments as president was to consolidate the institution's community outreach efforts into a single department. Some welcomed the change and others did not, but I wanted my college to be acollege in more than just name. Our "poverty fighter" program allowed us to reduce our costs for recruitment by engaging the community, and we invested savings from having a smaller staff into other worthwhile endeavors like community health and fitness centers and a conference center accessible to the public for weddings and banquets as well as business gatherings.Because of these kinds of amenities and innovations, I believe that community colleges will continue to play an important role in rebuilding state and local economies, breathing life back into broken communities, and enhancing diversity. Approximately 55 percent of all students enrolled in community colleges are from minority groups , according to data collected by the American Association of Community Colleges.Those groups are disproportionately represented among unemployed and underemployed workers. If they could receive up to two years of free community college education while waiting for the economy to return to pre-coronavirus levels, they would not only have acquired the skills needed for high-demand jobs but arguably would also end up better off in terms of potential earning power than they were prior to the pandemic. Government officials and the public should give proposals for free community and technical college education a closer look. They may just find in them the key to addressing many of the systemic disparities that have plagued our nation for generations.GoverningGoverning Judicial Service commends Makers and Partners for role in forensic investigation training Business Desk Report Business News Sep - 15 - 2023 , 12:23 The Internal Audit Department of the Judicial Service of Ghana has lauded Makers and Partners (MAP) for its role in forensic investigation training aimed at tackling fraud and corruption in the country. The Head of Internal Audit at Judicial Service, Robert Nii Aryee Tackie, noted that as part of its preparedness to fight fraud the accountancy firm has intensified the training of internal auditors by providing the requisite skills needed to enhance reporting and internal audit work. He said there had been instances where internal auditors have been queried for not presenting good reports, hence, the need to enhance their skill, especially in forensic investigations so reports could stand the test of the law courts. Mr Tackie made these remarks during a forensic investigation training workshop organized by MAP in collaboration with the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) Ghana Chapter. The event, which registered 55 internal auditors of the Judicial Service, aimed at equipping the internal auditors with the requisite skills for forensic investigation to safeguard the Service from internal threats such as fraud and misconduct. The participants were taken through the intricacies of effective planning, practical and useful skills for evidence gathering and preservation using the appropriate techniques and tools including adequate documentation of procedures performed to obtain evidence. Mr Tackie anticipated that the training would improve their reporting and internal audit work. A partner at MAP, Alfred Aryee, also touched on the need to build the capacity of internal auditors who served as actors in the fight against fraud and corruption, hence, organizing refresher courses on the new things happening in the space of forensic audit. He said the gesture was part of the Firms Corporate Social Responsibility as MAP seeks to empower state owned agencies to build their internal audit department to help fight fraud related cases. The facilitator of the workshop, Wilfred Neneh Addico, also noted that a research conducted by the ACFE across companies in the world revealed that about 46 per cent of fraud cases were identified through tip-offs and whistleblowing. He said volunteering information to the Internal Audit Function would accelerate the fight against fraud in the country. The President of ACFE Ghana Chapter, Dr Rebecca Atswei Lomo, also underscored the need for auditors to be trained, to know how to execute investigations as well produce quality reports that could stand the test of the courts. She said ACFEs mission was to educate and train its members to be well equipped in fraud examination to effectively deal with those issues when the need arose. The President of ACFE Ghana Chapter said the Association would celebrate its week (every 2nd week (every 2nd week in November) and added that it would hold its first conference on November 15 to 16, and urged the public to participate. We will educate the public on how they can protect themselves against fraudsters and scammers on the internet. Recapitalisation of BoG must be prioritised Banking expert Emmanuel Bruce Business News Sep - 19 - 2023 , 05:50 Banking Consultant and Expert Dr Richmond Atuahene has advised the government to prioritise the recapitalisation of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) as soon as the countrys fiscal condition improves. He said this must be done within a year or two to avert any potential negative impact of the central banks capital impairment on its operations. The BoG has recently come under public scrutiny after it recorded losses of over GH60 billion for the 2022 financial year. The central bank has, over the last couple of weeks, explained that the losses were a result of its decision to take a hit for the country by taking a 50 per cent hair during the domestic debt exchange programme. It will be recalled that the countrys economy has been faced with some challenges which the government has blamed on the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The country formally approached the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for support in July last year. However, one of the key prior actions that was required to get board approval for the US$ 3 billion programme was for the country to restructure both its domestic and external debt, which had reached unsustainable levels. The government announced a Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) which saw the government swap old bonds valued at GH82 billion for 12 new ones at reduced coupon rates and longer tenors, paving the way for the country to get the approval of the IMF Board in May this year. It has, however, emerged that the central bank stepped in to act as the last absorber, taking a 50 per cent haircut to enable the country to get a deal. This is what contributed to the central bank recoding the losses in 2022, a situation which has affected the capital of the institution which acts as the lender of last resort. The IMF in its programme report also hinted that the BoGs balance sheet would be affected by the debt restructuring and, therefore urged the government and the BoG to assess the impact and develop plans for recapitalisation with fund technical assistance support. Potential impact Speaking on the Graphic Business Twitter (now X) dialogue series, Dr Atuahene said although the impairment to the BoGs balance sheet may not have any immediate impact on its operations, there could be a potential impact in the next year or two, reason why the government should act fast and recapitalise it. The losses themselves may not directly affect you today but have consequences over the period if it is not well managed. Today, banks are looking for capital and if the central bank cannot perform its role of the lender of last resort, what will be the situation? he asked. There are certain specific roles that the central bank can continue to play effectively. However, if the situation is not well managed, in the next year or two, the reality can hit us hard, he stated. He noted that looking at the current fiscal space, it would be difficult for the government to raise money to recapitalise the central bank but once the situation improves, this must be prioritised. If we say we want to improve the situation by retaining profit to put the BoG in a good position, this may take a lot of years. If you look at the losses divided by the profits they usually make, its going to take more than 25 years. Therefore, the government needs to quickly help recapitalise the central bank, he explained. Correspondent banks Dr Atuahene said the need to recapitalise the central bank was also critical, due to the correspondent bank relationship. He said it should be noted that the BoG was not keeping its foreign reserves in Ghana, but with other international correspondent banks. What will be the perception from your counterparts, those you keep your money with? If your capital is not enough, it will affect how they deal with you because even when you have enough capital, its sometimes difficult to deal with them. Recently, one company in Ghana wanted to do letters of credit. Normally, when the DDEP had not set in, the confirmation charge was 2.5 per cent. However, today, the foreign banks are saying they will confirm the letter of credit at seven per cent and this is all because the Ghanaian banks have capital challenges, he explained. Breach of law Commenting on the BoGs decision to exceed its limit of financing to the government, Atuahene said steps must be put in place to ensure this does not happen again. The BoG has argued over the last weeks that it did not breach any law by extending financing to the government, a position which has been backed by the Finance Minister in a recent article published in the Daily Graphic. The central bank has maintained that although the law allows for a limit of five per cent of a previous years tax revenue financing to the government, it had consistently practised zero financing until 2020 when COVID-19 hit hard at the country and 2022 when the international capital market was closed to the country. Responding to the issue, Dr Atuahene said We have a law to deal with, and if there is an emergency, the law specifically states what should be done. The law states that the Governor, the Minister of Finance and the Accountant General should get this to parliament within seven days. So it is not about what you did in an emergency, but what the implication is to the economy. If you want to exceed the limit, there are rules to be followed, he said. He said just like the COVID-19 period when the Minister went to Parliament to ask for the suspension of the Fiscal Responsibility Act, the Minister should have done the same by going to Parliament to get approval for the central bank financing beyond the five per cent threshold. To help avert this situation going forward, the IMF has noted that the BoG Act would be revised to strengthen central bank independence and mitigate fiscal dominance. The amendment is expected to feature a stricter limit for monetary financing, mechanisms to monitor and enforce compliance and a clear definition of emergencies under which the limit can be temporarily lifted. Pending the legislative changes, the BoG and the MoF have signed a memorandum of Understanding to eliminate monetary financing during the programme. Lets allow the judiciary to breathe Daily Graphic Editorials Sep - 14 - 2023 , 09:46 For the past 31 years, Ghana has successfully transferred power from one government to another on five occasions without any civil strife, and our nation is intact. As a nation, we have also achieved tremendous successes in promoting human rights and civil liberties within these years of constitutional order and constitutionalism, further cementing our credentials as a bastion of democracy on the African continent. At the centre of this tremendous democratic achievement is the judiciary, which has stood tall in fidelity to the law, giving landmark decisions and using its powers under the constitution to check the excesses of governance and extreme partisanship while expanding the frontiers of our democracy and making us a shining example in the world. However, our flourishing democracy and its offspring of competitive politics has bred extreme partisanship, factionalism and acrimony, a situation which is threatening the existence of many independent institutions, including the judiciary, the third arm of government and the custodian of the law which gives the legal basis for our democracy. The judiciary has become a punching bag for political actors, with some politicians, including very senior statesmen, taking them to the cleaners whenever it suits their interests or when it is convenient to enable them to appeal to their core party base. Such political actors forget that the judiciary is the bulwark of our democracy and therefore any unjustifiable attempt to bastardise such an important institution will ultimately spell doom for the democracy they intend to benefit from as leaders. An erroneous perception is being created that judges do the bidding of the President who appointed them. This perception, without any sound legal argument, is being propagated by politicians to the masses who swallow them hook, line and sinker, further destroying public confidence in the judiciary. Lawyers, activists and students of the law will attest to the fact that it was during former President Jerry John Rawlings era (1992 to 2000) that the country benefited from landmark decisions by the Supreme Court which helped entrench constitutionalism and improve constitutional rule. Interestingly, most of the landmark cases were initiated by the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the opposition party at the time, and some of its members, with the judges who were appointed by President Rawlings, ruling against his government. Example of such cases are - NPP v A-G (31st December Case), which led to the Supreme Court declaring the celebrations of the 31st December coup with public funds as unconstitutional; NPP v IGP and A-G, where the apex court declared a section of the Public Order Act, which allowed the Minister for the Interior to sanction demonstrations, as a fetter on the right of people to demonstrate guaranteed under Article 21 and therefore unconstitutional, and J.H Mensah v A-G, where the Supreme Court held that the decision by President Rawlings not to have his retained Ministers undergo vetting by Parliament was a violation of Article 78 and, therefore, unconstitutional. With regard to the current administration, judges appointed by President Nana Akufo-Addo have given judgments against the government. For example, the contentious decision by President Akufo-Addo to direct a former Auditor-General, Yaw Domelevo, to proceed on leave was declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court. Again, a move by the Economic and Organised Crime (EOCO) to freeze the assets of the former CEO of COCOBOD, Stephen Kwabena Opuni, was not only rejected by the Supreme Court, but the court further warned state institutions to be mindful of the rights of people in the discharge of their duties. Other examples include the decision by the government to cap statutory funds such as the District Assembly Common Fund, which was declared unconstitutional, and the unlimited powers granted to President Akufo-Addo which allowed him to violate the human rights of people under the guise of COVID-19 was also declared null and void by the Supreme Court due to its unconstitutionality. We can go on and on to list many cases whereby the judges have ruled against the President who appointed them. The judiciary is not above criticism and cannot even be against criticism but a deliberate attempt to stain its image with the ultimate aim of scoring political points is not only dangerous for our democracy, but it has the potential to negatively affect our cohesion as a nation. The Daily Graphic calls on political actors and other stakeholders to be bold to criticise the judiciary, but such criticisms must be constructive and based on facts and not wild allegations that further divide our already extreme partisan country. We also encourage the judiciary to interact and engage with all stakeholders, including political parties, to explain some of their activities to help boost confidence in the service. Most importantly, let us allow the judiciary to breathe to be able to serve us well. I'm no prophet of doom, I say what God tells me - Nigel Gaisie Kofi Duah Email From Sandra Sep - 17 - 2023 , 08:36 The founder of True Word Prophetic Fire Ministries, TWPFM (Grace Chapel) Prophet Nigel Gaisie says it will be wrong for anyone to assume that he rides on doom prophecies to be popular since he is a genuine man of God who only tells what he hears from God. According to him, he has been in the prophetic ministry for long over a decade and will not slur his image with false prophecies just to be popular and at the expense of the true word of God. I didnt become who I am today because my prophecies get national attention. It is a gift God has blessed me with. When I see something, I say it. I have been on radio for the past 14 years and TV as well so it will be wrong for anyone to assume that I'm riding on doom prophecies just to be popular or attach it to my popularity now," he stated". Prophet Gaisie who had been called on phone during a discussion on false prophecies on UTV's United Showbiz yesterday, expressed frustrations at how Ghanaians undervalue their own prophets but hail same and hold them in high esteem from other countries. If there is a prophecy from Ghana, we do not value it but when it is from another prophet from a different country, we rather pay attention to it," he stated. Prophet Gaisie similarly expressed concerns about a demeaning statement from one of the panelist on the show and revealed that the continuous disrespect had forced him to turn down media interviews. " In the name of speaking my mind, people disrespect you by saying anything and talking anyhow to you," he added. Prophet Nigel Gaise who was not happy with what one of the panelist statement on him said he declines interview from media houses because of this same disrespect. Building national cathedral is a misplaced priority - Samini Edith Mensah Showbiz News Sep - 17 - 2023 , 15:20 Popular Ghanaian Reggae/Dancehall musician Samini has expressed a strong disapproval of government's decision to build a national cathedral in the face of the prevailing economic challenges. Speaking on The Day show earlier today, Samini, real name, Emmanuel Andrews Samini described the decision as a misplaced priority in these challenging times. Samini's remark was a response to a question whether the ruling gNew Patriotic Party( NPP) that he once supported had let him down. Samini didn't hold back his frustrations and disappointments during his submissions, with the building of National cathedral being of grave concern to him. He emphasised that at a critical moment when the country needed to focus on setting its priorities right to address the prevailing economic challenges, allocating resources for the construction of a national cathedral seemed far from prudent. "I am a person that does not buy into the idea of building a national Cathedral. That is purely a misplaced priority," Samini stated. He entreated government to pay critical attention and provide resources to relevant sectors such as healthcare, education, job creation, and poverty alleviation. Ghana Club celebrates Kwaw Ansah, King Ampaw Kouame Koulibaly Showbiz News Sep - 18 - 2023 , 19:48 Ghana Club, a membership-based social group in Accra, will on September 19 and September 20, celebrate two of its members - Kwaw Ansah and King Ampaw - for their significant contributions to the development of cinema in this country. The programme is dubbed Film Pioneers Achievement Gala. It comprises screening of King Ampaws No Time To Die film on September 19 and Kwaw Ansahs Heritage Africa on September 20. There will be question-and-answer sessions with the respective directors and comments from patrons after each screening. The two filmmakers will be presented with citations at a dinner party on the second day. Founded in 1947, Ghana Club is located not far from the Independence Square. It is open every day for members and their guests. It is generally described as a pleasant outlet for networking. According to the Clubs President, Dr Adrian Oddoye, the upcoming event is the first in a series to honour people who have made remarkable inputs into various aspects of our national life. We deem it appropriate to kick off with our members who stand tall as far as cinema is concerned. People have done a lot for this country and we will with time, reach out to some of them in sports, music, visual arts, literature, architecture and more. David Dontoh and Agartha Ofori in King Ampaw's 'No Time To Die' The best-known films directed by King Ampaw are Kukurantumi, Road to Accra (1983), Nana Akoto (1985) and No Time to Die (2006). A love tale that also looks at the issue of funerals in our society but with a twist of comedy, No Time to Die features actors such as David Dontoh, Fritz Baffour, Agartha Ofori, Kwesi France, Kofi Bucknor, Amartey Hedjoleh and Kofi Middleton-Mends. Apart from making his own films, Ampaw has co-produced others which include the epic Cobra Verde in 1987. He also acted in it. Others he has co-produced are African Timber directed by Peter Bringmann in 1989, Anansi directed by Fritz Baumann in 2001 and Welcome Home, a German feature shot in Ghana in 2003. Kwaw Ansah is regarded in many circles as Ghanas most influential filmmaker. His breakthrough as a film director came in 1980 with Love Brewed in the African Pot. His other works include Heritage Africa; Crossroads Of People, Crossroads of Trade;The Good Old Days; Suffering To Lose; The Love Of AA and Papa Lasisi Bicycle. Respect and admiration for his general body of work have come in the form of several awards in Ghana, Burkina Faso, United Kingdom, India and other places. Charles Bucknor in Kwaw Ansah's 'Heritage Africa' Philippa Ama Bentuma Arthur is coordinator for the Film Pioneers Achievement Gala. She says planning has gone well so far and Ghana Club members and their guests are looking forward to some inspiring moments with two of the nations film stalwarts. Niashun is brand ambassador for Sleek Garments Export Limited Kofi Duah Showbiz News Sep - 18 - 2023 , 12:57 Ghanaian Afrofusion musician Niashun has been made brand ambassador for Sleek Garment Export Limited. For his one year reign as the brand ambassador, Niashun is expected to promote Sleek Garments newest product Cuddles towel. At the signing ceremony held in Accra over the weekend, Niashun expressed his excitement in joining forces with Sleek Garments and see this partnership as a vehicle for progress and mutual growth. Its an honour to become the brand ambassador for a respected brand like Sleek Garments Export Limited. I wholly believe in the vision of Sleek Garments global effort at promoting Made- In Ghana products. Knowing that my collaboration with Sleek will help boost visibility and support their vision to create jobs for the youth and the Ghanaian, leave me completely satisfied that I have a perfect avenue to give back to my fans he said. Dr Nora Bannerman Abbot, Chief Executive Officer of Sleek Garments Export Limited, said the collaboration with Niashun represented our belief in partnership and collaboration as the way forward to economic growth and empowerment, industrialisation, job creation and wealth generation. We are always mindful of the customers contribution to the success of every endeavour of Sleek Garments and collaboration with a budding artiste like Niashun who makes such soul satisfying music, is only the beginning of our deeper relationship with consumers and buyers alike she said According to her Sleek Garments Export Limited is one of the largest garments and textile manufacturing companies in Ghana with a factory of global acclaim, manufactures and exports to the US, the EU and Africa. Born Nana Kwame Ankumah, Niashun was nominated at the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards VGMA Unsung last year. Sarkodie, Delta & private jet nonsense Arnold Asamoah Baidoo Showbiz News Sep - 17 - 2023 , 11:56 LAST week, Delta Air Lines (DL) flight, a Boeing 767-300ER registered as N191DN from Accra (ACC), Ghana, to New York (JFK) underwent a diversion and emergency landing at Praia da Vitoria (TER) located on Terceira Island in the Azores. Ghanaian rapper, Sarkodie was among the hundreds of passengers on that flight. This diversion was reportedly initiated due to concerns related to oxygen levels on board the aircraft. In a press statement released by the regulator of air transport in Ghana, the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), it confirmed the incident and stated how it is collaborating with the Airline and other relevant authorities about the incident. Sarkodie posted his nightmarish flight on his social media handles and as expected, reactions came in thick and fast but quite disappointingly, some of the comments that generated the most conversations were not hinged on the incident or the harrowing experience the passengers went through but on a trifling matter on how Sarkodie should stop using commercial flight and commence engaging the services of a private jet. Unnecessary Agenda Just like the filling of the O2 Arena comparison, it is just a few elements on social media that instigated that conversation, which was unfortunately picked up by mainstream media and some of its frontrunners. Once again on this matter, some dodgy folks on the platform are activating the frivolous call for Sarkodie to travel on private jets just as some Nigerian artistes do. In the name of agenda, some of these folks are questioning the travelling pattern of the artiste; touting how its about time he ditched patronising First and Business Class to employing the services of a Private Jet. As usual, once these critics need a measuring stick to give credence to their scheme of wanting to drag the artiste, they look at which close comparisons to draw without even taking time to check the circumstances of every celebritys traveling arrangement and what informs their choice of air transport. Such an agenda is spurious, grotesque and unsolicited and must not be encouraged, especially by mainstream media or any of its forerunners. Such baloney should be made to die where it started. Delta Airline Is The Problem After almost 17 years of operations in Ghana, Delta Airlines is undoubtedly the leading United States carrier to Ghana but in the last year or more, it has reported quite a number of incidents that have drawn to the airline, such undesirable attention. In August 2022, the National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, together with six others, filed a formal complaint with the Office of Aviation Consumer Protection in the U.S.A against Delta Air Lines. Their Delta Flight, DL156, was rescheduled, cancelled and rescheduled again without any sleep arrangements for passengers. In July 2022, Delta Air Lines Flight DL9923 outbound from JFK to Kotoka International Airport in Accra was forced to make a U-turn over the Atlantic Ocean due to a fuel imbalance issue in-flight. In August 2022, the (GCAA) banned Delta Air Lines Boeing 767-332 aircraft, registered N195DN, from flying to Ghana over technical issues. The Authority finds this unacceptable. Therefore, with immediate effect, Delta Air Lines is being advised not to dispatch the B767-332 with registration number N195DN for flights to Accra. As your ageing 0767 fleets are much of much concern to Ghanaian travelers, Delta Air Lines must put in place a plan to change the type of aircraft on the JFK-ACC-JFK route as soon as practicable, the Ghanaian authority added in its official statement. Prior to the incident with the N191DN registered aircraft, a video of passengers, mostly Ghanaians scheduled to fly on a Delta Airline aircraft to Ghana went viral last week. They were stranded at a US Airport for many hours. According to unverified claims, the aircraft developed technical issues which had to do with its power systems. Owning/hiring a Private Jet Not Childs Play There are many advantages of owning a private jet or hiring its services, especially for business-oriented personalities who are frequent travellers. Firstly, theres comfort where you get to enjoy any and everything you desire without restriction. Then theres flexibility where you dont need to worry about missing your flight or having to deal with flight cancellations due to weather and other factors. The aircraft is yours; you can always alter the flight route. How about saving time not worrying about long queues and walking directly to the aircraft door right from your car. For celebrities/entertainers, privacy is key and a private jet gives you that privilege. However, owning or chartering a private jet is expensive and not every entertainer can afford such. According to investopedia.com, a private jet can cost anywhere from $2 million to over $100 million and related expenses include flight crew salaries and expenses, costs of routine maintenance and unforeseen repairs, hangar rental, and aircraft insurance. One can pay around $500,000 to $1 million annually in just operating costs. There are other options of using a private jet aside ownership, which includes charter services, partial jet ownership, and membership in a private jet club. Chartered flight rates range from the low thousands to more than $10,000 per flight hour. Jet card is another option which works like a prepaid card. You book a certain number of flight hours at a set price. You can even select the type of plane that best suits your needs, and availability is usually within a few hours. For a light jet, a 25-hour card varies between $120,000 and $150,000 - according to ostrichpillow.com. Let Our Artistes Breathe! It is germane to draw comparisons but the basis of that assessment must make sense and backed with empirical data. Sarkodie is no fool; he likes the good things in life and as a frequent traveler and a business man, traveling in a private jet can be overly convenient and appropriate but the most important question these naysayers ought to ask is; does it make business sense to own one or hire its services? As an independent artiste solely responsible for funding the recording, production, marketing, promotion and distribution of his works in a Ghanaian music industry; asking Sarkodie to start patronising a private jet is plainly imprudent! How much is his net worth that he should get a $2million jet with $500,000 operating cost or charter a jet on a $1,000 to $10,000 hourly use. How does that make sense? The core issue here has little to do with Sarkodie but with Delta Airlines and their failing operations to Ghana which needs to be addressed, especially by the regulatory authority and other entities concerned. It is only those who have no travel experience or have no family members traveling that would divert critical air transport matters to bland conversations. Do better!!! Coup detats, demographys golden rule Dr. Leticia Adelaide Appiah Opinion Sep - 11 - 2023 , 12:15 Between 2020 and 2023, a concerning trend emerged in West and Central Africa, marked by eight coup d'etats. In each of these instances, the leaders orchestrating these coups defended their actions as being in the best interests of their respective nations. Following these tumultuous events, both the Central Africa Regional bloc and the Economic Community of African States (ECOWAS), a 15-nation regional coalition, initially condemned the takeovers, and subsequently, announced their commitment to restoring constitutional order through various measures. Unfortunately, their collective efforts have been met with limited success. This begs the question: Why has West Africa experienced a higher susceptibility to coups? The answer lies in a combination of economic hardships and weak governance that have generated heightened frustration among the civilian population, particularly among the youth, ultimately contributing to these takeovers. Demographic factor The median age of a country serves as a pivotal demographic indicator, representing the age at which half of the population is older, and half is younger. It essentially splits the population into two equal parts, with as many individuals above the median age as there are below it. This metric holds significant importance in understanding a nation's demographic profile. Criminal psychologists contend that the majority of crimes tend to be committed or garner significant support from individuals aged 15 to 24. Criminal activity typically decreases or ceases altogether between the ages of 25 and 40. Interestingly, a similar pattern emerges in the context of coups, where a predominant proportion of supporters belong to this same age group, often taking to the streets in admiration of the coup instigators. The transition of a country's median age from a youthful to an intermediate or matured age structure occurs when concerted efforts are made to target and reduce higher-risk pregnancies, alongside a decline in fertility rates. This shift is indicative of significant changes in the demographic composition of a nation and sustainable development. African situation Africa's median age, at 18 years, reflects its youthful populationa demographic picture that falls squarely within the crime-prone age range of 15 to 24 years. This makes it susceptible to supporting coup leaders or engaging in various vices when governments fail to meet their needs for employment, education and social services. Notably, countries recently affected by coups have median ages ranging from 14.5 in Niger to 21.7 in Gabon, all within the crime-prone age bracket, creating ideal conditions for coup-related unrest. It's well documented that nations with youthful populations struggle with effective governance, corruption control, rule of law enforcement and political and economic stability. A 2021 UNDP report labelled sub-Saharan Africa as the global epicentre of violent extremism, responsible for almost half of worldwide terrorism-related suffering and deaths. The report found that 25 per cent of recruits cited a lack of job opportunities, and 40 per cent joined extremist groups for livelihood reasons. Unfortunately, coups, when they occur, tend to exacerbate problems rather than solve them. Can West Africa effectively eliminate coups if population dynamics are ignored in the sustainable development agenda? Neglecting population-influencing initiatives only amplifies the consequences of coups and their disruptions. Understanding the root causes of coups is the first step in building sustainable communities based on positive peacea crucial approach to breaking the coup cycle in West Africa. While coups are complex, preventing them remains a challenge. However, leaders must heed the golden rule of political demography: avoid policies that perpetuate persistently youthful populations demographically young, as their consequences continually plague societies. Way forward To transition from a youthful to a mature median age, politicians within ECOWAS should prioritise programmes aimed at improving the median age in West Africa, rather than solely focusing on long-term political stability. Specifically, they must champion initiatives that enhance access to high-quality family planning and reproductive health services, eliminate child marriage and enhance girls' education. These measures can bring about sustainable changes in economic and social conditions. Our current circumstances are, in part, a result of how we have historically prioritised (or failed to prioritise) demographic indicators. The quality of life in the future will hinge on the demographic decisions we make today, irrespective of our natural resource endowments. If our democratic practices solely revolve around procedural elections and political competition, coup d'etatsactions that often exacerbate problemsmay unfortunately persist. Therefore, we must broaden our approach to address the underlying demographic factors contributing to these issues. The writer is the Executive Director, National Population Council. Mahamas hee-haw; Nanas gaffe Enimil Ashon Opinion Sep - 15 - 2023 , 11:03 It is doubtful that John Mahama hopes to win 2024. Either that or he does not believe that in Ghana, no single political party can with only its members, secure past 50 per cent of the votes, and that to win an election, a party or candidate needs the floating vote. In Ghana, it has been established that the floating voter population is made up of 60 per cent of intellectuals and 40 per cent civil society activists. These are the folks who get put off by the smell of intolerant leadership. In governance, intolerance first manifests in attacks on the Judiciary and the media. Promise Former President Mahamas promise to pack the courts with National Democratic Congress (NDC) judges, if elected in 2024, therefore, cannot be a campaign message: at best, it is an assurance to NDC lawyers who have the ambition to become Supreme Court judges. Addressing the third annual conference of NDC lawyers, he vowed to balance out the situation where Nana Akufo-Addo has packed the Bench with New Patriotic Party (NPP) judges. Lawyer Ace Annan Ankomah tells me that a President can pick their choice of judges from among private lawyers onto the Bench. Must this prerogative, however, be so whimsically exercised? Will a judge with conscience free a criminal merely on grounds of party loyalty? Are we not on our way to creating untouchable criminals in Ghana? To know how death looks like, take a look at sleep, say the Fantes of Ghana. Arent we disgusted already how political appointments to top positions in the public service are contributing to reducing the image of the proverbial efficiency and neutrality of the service? There is no future for the staff who entered the service right from the university and have been faithfully marking time hoping to reach the top some day. We dont practise the US tradition where nominees for the Supreme Court are known members of the two dominant political traditions. I remember Judges Clarence Thomas (1991) and Ketanji Brown Jackson (2022), both Democrats. Fourth In the Fourth Republic, all Presidents have made appointments to the Bench, up to the Supreme Court. John Mahama is aware of this practice; indeed, he knows that his party has profited from it: was it only a rumour that under the NDC, Judge Marful Sau (RIP) was by-passed in appointment to the Supreme Court? It is true Justice Ernest Yao Gaewu, appointed on July 4, 2022, had contested the Ho Central Constituency seat in 2016 on the ticket of NPP. But rather than a sweeping generalisation, Mahama should have attacked lack of merit, if any. Otherwise, we get to the bizarre point where a candidate, no matter how eminently qualified for the position, must be side-stepped merely because they are card bearing members of a ruling party. Has the Judicial Council also been infiltrated? JM may have a case, but in life, when complaints get too many, they become a whine, especially in JMs case when folks might ask, is this not the same Mahama who launched the most vitriolic attack on the integrity of judges of the Supreme Court who ruled in his Election Petition 2021? People who listened to that press conference without knowledge of the facts were mad at the judges. But the madness ended the day Asiedu Nketia, vying for the position of party chair, confessed the sins of the NDC on Peace FM, conveniently admitting that the NDC did not have a case, after all. And why did he confess? Because his opponent, Ofosu Ampofo, the incumbent, needed to be exposed for acting in ways that led to the partys defeat. Hypocrisy The latest revelation by NDC stalwart Dr Kpessa Whyte is the latest to expose the hypocrisy. Dr Whyte and Rojo Mettle Nunoo were the NDC representatives in the EC Strongroom on election night. This week, he confessed that on election night, 2020, he became frustrated with his own party because he waited forever for figures that were not coming because the NDC election monitoring machinery had broken down. Anybody with the knowledge of this play-back should be the last to mount another attack on the integrity of judges and the judicial system. In character and in temperament, Mahama is no despot not even a benevolent one, but be he reminded that those who have so far respected his leadership are still watching and listening. If for no other reason, they believe he has a chance to become President again. That is why I want to personally plead: JDM, mind your language o. Descend And now to our sitting President. I get worried when otherwise perfect gentlemen like Akufo-Addo lose their cool. His attacks on Mahama was unpresidential, to say the least. What is preventing him from prosecuting Mahama over the Airbus Scandal if he is convinced that JDM is Government Official One? Its 12 years already since the expose. So far, we have not moved beyond insinuations and threats. The writer is Executive Director, Centre for Communication and Culture. Why we need a mindset revolution - Yaw Nsarkoh writes Yaw Nsarkoh Opinion Sep - 18 - 2023 , 13:33 When the Gang of 4 was smashed, China was at the bottom of the abyss of retardation. Twenty years of the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution had left the country in economic ruins. Deng Xiaoping, the man who was seen to be second only to Liu Shaoqi in capitalist deviation, was sent for, from the cowshed. Three times Deng Xiaoping had climbed to the top, then been toppled and sent to the cowshed for uttering unthinkable blasphemy. Now with Liu Shaoqi dead in jail in 1969; Zhou Enlai,who always felt Deng Xiaoping was needed and possibly protected him from death, was dead and Mao was now dead, the system realised Deng was needed. China was on its knees in 1976 when Deng Xiaoping was sent for. He immediately focused on Enhancing Mindsets. Deng asked to be placed in charge of the education schedule. He called thirty-three top Chinese intellectuals, mainly Professors, and sat to listen to them tell him what should be done. This meeting lasted five days. After five days of listening, Deng Xiaoping got up and gave a three hour long now famous rousing speech. During which he outlined the essential elements of the reforms he would call the second revolution. Some of the Professors wept. After ten years of being called the "stinky 9th category", here was Deng Xiaoping saying their knowledge was the primary productive force that would save China. He would rehabilitate intellectuals and thinking. And he established "seek truth from facts", a Maoist precept, as a central and foundational principle of the reforms. Deng Xiaoping then convened the hierarchy of the Communist Party, with the full and heavy involvement of The Chinese Academy of Sciences. Science here being a universal descriptor of all knowledge.The meeting lasted thirty-six days. It was here that Deng established he would not seek vengeance against Mao. That Mao was fallible but "Mao Zedong Thought" was the basis for a prosperous future China. And that Mao was his leader. These were fundamental shifts. To call Mao fallible required rare courage. Deng Xiaoping also established that he would try "The Gang of Four" for crimes against humanity. For they were zero, a thousand points below zero. And they had to be punished for the deaths of hundreds of millions which came about as a result of their policy. It was at this famous thirty six day meeting that Deng Xiaoping laid out, in my view, his most profound canons. The voice and needs of the people was the ultimate guide. The party had to seek its legitimacy from raising their living standards. That class struggle should not be the principal motive force of Maoist-Leninist-Marxism. Liberation of the productive forces to raise living standards and guarantee shared dignity and shared prosperity was the objective of socialism. That China would always do what was right for China and not pander to others expectations. That opening up China would take 20% of the world, at the time, out of poverty. It was therefore mandatory to do it. That market economics and socialist economics were not contradictory. They needed a delicate balance. Thence started the reforms. Really taking off in 1980, after Deng, the 5-footer, had consolidated his political power base. Today in China, one of the very highest honours to aspire for is to be among what the Communist Party calls the top 200 academics. I encountered this in April when I was there. The state lavishes them in a life of relative luxury. Theirs is to do nothing else but think for China. In 1980, at seventy-six, Deng had launched the twenty year plan to take China from $200/capita GNP, to $800/capita in twenty years. In 1989, China was well ahead of the pathway to hit the number, and livelihoods had risen significantly. Deng had also revised the goal to $1000/capita. The civilian who had led army units with outstanding Generals like Liu Bocheng (the one-eyed General), Deng Xiaoping was exhibiting rare and prodigious strategic and operational capabilities as a leader. At eighty-five, and just about to retire, Deng showed why Lee Kwan Yew described him as the most impressive man he ever encountered. With eleven years still to go, Deng asked that the third generation of Chinese leaders - he belonged to the second with Mao, Lin Biao, Liu Shaoqi, Liu Bocheng and others, were the first - to convene a group. The task of this group was to think through the fifty years that will follow 2000. Deng Xiaoping! When cometh another? I was in various levels of my principal school process from 1971 when I went to kindergarten, to 1992 when I graduated as a chemical engineer. I have worked since 1992 and received world class leadership training from one of the best companies in the world, in terms of human resource management. At least in my view. From, 1971 to 2023, Deng Xiaoping was only mentioned in leadership training when I was doing the training. Yesterday, I asked my graduate son whether in his leadership training he ever heard of Deng. He said he did not. Any wonder then that so many African intellectuals think neoliberal capitalism is what God handed over to Moses on tablets of stone on Mount Sinai? Deng Xiaoping's selected works feature him speaking to more African Presidents than any other set of Presidents. What did they take away? Deng Xiaoping urged Africa to unite in its dealings with the world. To focus on liberation of the productive forces in our own African way. Did our own intellectuals hear him? Will there now be a Renaissance? Or are we the problem - lazy and timid? I was recently told by a group of Ghanaian professionals, in all seriousness, that we cannot think about development beyond an hour at a time .We get tired. In shock all I could say was: but we spend hours at church and at funerals? Are we really a people serious about eliminating poverty? We need a mindset revolution. That is my final statement. Intellectuals must rise up and seize the moment. Yaw Nsarkoh, Monday, 18 September 2023. Congo Republic government denies speculation of military coup Graphic.com.gh International News Sep - 18 - 2023 , 07:11 The Republic of Congos government has denied speculation on social media that there had been a coup in the central African nation. Fanciful information suggests there may be serious events underway in Brazzaville, government spokesman Thierry Moungalla said in a statement posted on Twitter. The statement by the Congo Brazzaville government said the reports of a coup attempt against President Denis Nguesso, who has been in power for 38 years was not true. The governments denial came after Information Minister Thierry Moungalla tweeted on Saturday that fanciful information was suggesting serious events were underway in the capital, Brazzaville. The Government denies this fake news, Moungalla tweeted. We reassure public opinion about the calm that reigns and invite people to go about their activities calmly. The governments website also posted a statement denying the coup attempt reports. Nguesso, 78, has spent 38 years at the countrys helm in central Africa. He was president from 1979 to 1992, returned in 1997 after a civil war, and has remained in power ever since. There has been a wave of coups across Africa in recent months, with the most recent one in Gabon, where the military seized power in January. However, the Congolese governments denial of the coup attempt reports suggests that the situation in the country is under control. Ashanti region: 18-year-old woman allegedly raped and murdered at Anwiankwanta Citinewsroom Sep - 18 - 2023 , 07:25 Police in the Ashanti region have commenced an investigation into the alleged rape and murder of an 18-year-old woman in Anwiankwanta. According to residents, the 18-year-old apprentice was picked up by individuals in a vehicle who offered to drop her off at her home. When she failed to return, concerned community members began searching for her, and tragically, her lifeless body was discovered in an uncompleted building just a few meters from her residence. Eyewitnesses say she was partially unclothed, leading to suspicions that she may have been sexually assaulted before her death. Law enforcement authorities were alerted, and a comprehensive inquiry has been launched to uncover the circumstances surrounding her untimely and mysterious death. Frank Awuah, the assembly member for the Awiankwanta electoral area, in an interview with Citi News, said the police are still investigating, but urged anyone with information to come forward. The womans death has sent shockwaves through the Anwiankwanta community, and residents are calling for justice. Building path to prosperity: Entrepreneurship education, ecomomic transformation Joseph Benson Sep - 18 - 2023 , 05:44 Have you ever heard of Rohit Okhera? Once a struggling vendor in the bustling markets of India, Rohit is now a beacon of hope for his community. His transformation from a hand-to-mouth existence to a thriving business owner was sparked by a singular event his enrolment in an entrepreneurship education programme. Rohit's story is a testament to the potential of entrepreneurship education to spur individual growth and economic development. But could a similar transformation occur in Ghana? Background The role of entrepreneurship in the economic development of a nation cannot be overstated. It is a key driver of innovation, job creation and economic growth. In developing countries such as Ghana and Vietnam, entrepreneurship has been instrumental in transforming their economies. However, the entrepreneurial landscape in these countries is significantly different, influenced by various factors such as economic policies, political stability and cultural norms. Diagram 1: GDP Growth; Vietnam & Ghana Vs World (2019 2023) by writer by writer Impact, entrepreneurship education on economic development. Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) reports that nations with strong entrepreneurship education frameworks have witnessed a surge in start-up activity, leading to robust job creation and economic growth. Ghana, a West African nation, has made significant strides in promoting entrepreneurship. With about 37.9 per cent of the adult population engaged in some form of entrepreneurial activity, Ghana boasts one of the highest entrepreneurship rates in the world. Meanwhile, the World Bank reports a 15 per cent increase in start-up activity and a 10 per cent rise in GDP in Vietnam following the introduction of entrepreneurship programmes. Could these figures reflect a deeper truth about the power of entrepreneurship education? Entrepreneurship & Economic Indicators (2000-2023) by writer Role key stakeholders The transformation of entrepreneurship education into a powerful economic engine is not a solo act. Governments, educational institutions, the private sector, and NGOs all play their parts in creating an ecosystem that fosters entrepreneurship. As the founder of Ashoka, Bill Drayton, puts it, "Entrepreneurship education is a team sport." But who is on this team in Ghana, and how can they play their part more effectively? Case studies For an answer, let's turn to Chile and Malaysia, two nations where entrepreneurship education has become a powerful tool for economic development. Chile's 'Start-Up Chile' initiative, backed by the government, has attracted a global pool of talent, leading to the creation of over 1,600 start-ups. Similarly, Malaysia's university-based entrepreneurship programmes have spawned a host of tech start-ups, contributing significantly to the nation's digital economy. Could Ghana be the next success story? Impact of Climate Change Climate change is an undeniable disruptor of economies, but it also presents a unique opportunity. There's a burgeoning demand for 'green' entrepreneurs who can create businesses that contribute to both economic development and environmental sustainability. Ghana, with its vast renewable resources, could be a breeding ground for such entrepreneurship. Potential So, what could this look like for Ghana? The National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Plan (NEIP) is a government initiative aimed at providing entrepreneurial Ghanaian youth with a conducive environment for growth. However, following in the footsteps of Chile and Malaysia, Ghana needs to amplify its efforts in entrepreneurship education, engage all key stakeholders, and nurture climate-smart entrepreneurship. Recommendations Drawing from the success stories of entrepreneurship in both Ghana and Vietnam, it is clear that a synergy of stakeholders is crucial for fostering entrepreneurship. Policymakers, entrepreneurs, investors, and the broader community need to work together to create an environment conducive for entrepreneurship. For Ghana, even small increases in economic freedom can stimulate entrepreneurship. This can be achieved by implementing policies that reduce bureaucracy, improve access to credit, and promote innovation. Additionally, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship through education and training can equip potential entrepreneurs with the necessary skills to succeed. Conclusion Rohit Okhera's story is not an anomaly; it could be Ghana's reality. Entrepreneurship education has the potential to transform lives and supercharge economies. For Ghana, this could be the key to unlocking untapped potential and setting the nation on a path to prosperity. It is high time for policymakers and global leaders to heed this call and invest in building an entrepreneurial ecosystem, turning potential into prosperity. The writer is a buisness development consultent. Cape Coast dance group calls for investment in industry Francisca Eshun Sep - 18 - 2023 , 05:31 The Chief Executive Officer of Afrimuda Foundation, John Kuubeterzie, has urged the government to pay attention to the development of the country's dance and music to optimise the sectors potential to generate revenue. He stated that it was important to resource and open up avenues for the nation's performing artistes and groups to push them further onto the international stage and further advertise the country. He was speaking at the 10th anniversary celebration of Afrimuda, a dance group in Cape Coast. Mr Kuubeterzie said the sector held great potential to attract tourists and revenue to the country if given the needed attention and resources required for its growth. He observed that traditional music and dance had not received much attention in the past, leaving the sector a pale shadow of itself. He explained that the name of his foundation was an acronym for African music and dance (Afrimuda) and was basically to bring hope and leverage among numerous vulnerable youths of Cape Coast and its environs, using their culture as a means of attraction. Foundation He added that apart from helping vulnerable youth to develop their artistic talents, the foundation had strategically put in place a programme for them to acquire training in some marketable skill areas to upgrade their status and be able to earn a living. Furthermore, the foundation has also nurtured dozens of its members and given them exposure, not only within the country but also outside the borders of Ghana. He added that some of them were now professional artistes living their lives abroad. Mr Kuubeterzie noted that in 2021, Afrimuda was nominated and adjudged the best Dance Group of the Year by the Ghana Arts and Culture Awards organisers and they subsequently won the best Music Group of the Year during its 2022 edition of the awards programme. He urged the youth and the government to turn their attention to cultural practices since it could help create employment for them. However, he indicated that the foundation still faced numerous challenges in finances and lacked donors and motivation and called for support to make them achieve their goals. Perception The Chairman for the occasion, Rev. Anthony Ato Hills, added that some Christians had the perception it was a sin to play drums and get involved in cultural displays as they saw it as traditional and fetish. He stated that it was important that children were made to love and appreciate the Ghanaian culture as a people. He commended the teaching of cultural dances and music in some of the countrys tertiary institutions and called for more support for such courses. "We cannot do away with our culture, since it identifies us as Ghanaians and we should prioritise this culture," he added. Dont allow children to go for sleepovers - Parents advised Augustina Tawiah Sep - 18 - 2023 , 05:27 Parents have been advised not to allow their children to go for sleepovers in their friends homes unless they are familiar with the people of that household. A Child Protection Specialist and Advocate at the Child Health Department of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Harriet Odoley Klufio, who gave the advice in an interview, explained that some sexual abuse cases the department had attended to occurred during such sleepovers in friends homes. When your children are going for sleepovers in their friends houses, please ascertain whether there is a male adult or an older male sibling of the friend in that household. Weve had cases where some children were abused during those occasions. So we are trying to discourage parents from allowing their children to do that, she explained. Bathing the girl-child Mrs Klufio, who is also a forensic nurse, again advised against the habit of male parents bathing their daughters, explaining that since the male parent would have to clean the vagina of the girl-child when bathing them, it would cause the child to think it was normal for any adult to put their fingers in their vagina and, therefore, would not report such incidents. We should let the child know that wherever the clothes are covered, nobody has the right to touch it. Nobody has the right to touch your breast, nobody has the right to touch your buttocks, play with it nor touch your vagina. Once anybody tries to do it, they should report to an adult person around them. It doesnt matter if it is their mother or not, once the person is an adult and can listen to you, report to them, she advised. Right names of body parts She said it was also important for parents to teach their children the right names of the parts of the body. This way, when the children find themselves in situations of sexual abuse, they will not feel shy to say they have been touched at those places. So teach children the right names of the body parts. You mention the nose as nose, the ear as ear so what is wrong with calling the vagina, vagina and penis, penis. Say it because weve made them to think that when they mention it, its an anathema. We should use the names correctly. Fire guts wooden structures at CMB Juliet Akyaa Safo Sep - 18 - 2023 , 05:33 Fire gutted about 350 wooden structures at CMB behind Kantamanto in Accra yesterday dawn, destroying shops and goods worth thousands of Ghana cedis. It took four pumps from the Accra City, Circle, Ministries fire stations and the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) headquarters substation to subdue the fire. The destroyed shops were being used for both commercial and domestic purposes, and their contents, including ovens, LPG cylinders, deep freezers, bags of flour and beans were all destroyed. The GNFS explained that the distress fire call was received at 05:04 am GMT and the first fire engine from Accra City Fire Station got to the fire scene at 05:06 am to bring the situation under control at 06:40 am. Firefighters at the scene were able to douse the rapid spreading fire at 7:04am without recording any casualty. However, the firefighters were able to help salvage adjoining wooden structures, storey buildings, as well as the quality control office of COCOBOD from the fire ruins. Investigation into the cause of the fire has started. Fires This is the second major fire incident at the CMB market in recent years. Last year, a similar fire incident happened on a Sunday in July 31, destroying properties in the area. In that fire, a fireman was reported to have suffered some injuries, due to the hazardous nature of the contents at the fire scene. Also, in 2020, a fire destroyed over 200 shops at the market. Fire outbreaks cost nation GH64m Chris Nunoo Sep - 18 - 2023 , 04:00 The country lost in excess of GH64 million to 6,796 fire outbreaks last year alone, Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has announced. Those incidents, he said, resulted in 50 deaths and 241 injuries. He described the situation as unacceptable and one that we must all come together and find a solutions to. In that regard, Dr Bawumia said, the GNFS would receive 200 rapid intervention vehicles from the government before the end of the year to augment its fleet of operational vehicles. He said a prototype of the vehicles was already in the country, and that the rest would also be assembled in the country. Dr Bawumia, who was addressing the graduation parade of the Cadet Course Intake 23 of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) at the Fire Academy and Training School at James Town in Accra last Friday, indicated that fire outbreaks had dealt a big blow to many individuals, organisations, institutions and even the government. The repercussions of these losses, especially with the loss of human lives, he said, had been dire and still difficult to grapple with. He said the fight for fire safety was far from over as it required continuous attention and a concerted effort to consolidate the gains so far made and improve upon their achievements. That, he said, would require collective efforts of all and sundry by way of adherence to fire safety messages and practices to avoid the occurrence of fire outbreaks. He, therefore, urged the officers of the service to continue to educate the public, urging them to find more innovative and creative means to spread fire safety news to every nook and cranny of the country. Government support Dr Bawumia said two additional Fire Academy and Training schools and a Fire College were under construction at Duayaw Nkwanta in the Ahafo Region, Wungu in the North East Region and Kyebi in the Eastern Region, respectively, with the first phase of all these three projects scheduled for completion by the end of September. Government has also provided the service with two hydraulic platforms capable of reaching the 16th floor of a building to assist the service in dealing with fire and rescue situations on high-rise buildings, he added, saying it is in this direction that the government gave opportunity to the service to recruit 2,000 new entrants to improve your human resource capacity. Intake 23 In all, 339 officer cadets, made up of 210 males and 129 females were commissioned into the officer corps of the GNFS. Of the number,188 of the officers joined directly, while 151 were already serving officers. Code-named Intake 23, the officer cadet course spanned 32 weeks, and it included 12 weeks of internship and field work and 20 weeks of intensive training at the Fire Academy. The courses and training regime included officership and work ethics, corporate image development, public speaking and media relations, fire sciences, fire safety and operational fire and rescue courses. The newly commissioned officers, as part of the ceremony, treated guests and the dignitaries, who included the Ga Mantse, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II; the Minister for the Interior, Ambrose Dery; the Minister of Defence, Dominic Nitiwul; the Chairman of the Fire Service Council, Kwame Anyimadu-Antwi, and the Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akuffo Dampare, to slow and quick march demonstrations, with music from the fire service band. The GNFS also used the occasion to unveil the new camouflage uniform of the service. Reviewing officer Dr Bawumia, who was the reviewing officer, said the government was aware of the enormity of the responsibility placed on the shoulders of personnel of the service which called for a considerable amount of resources to execute their obligation. He said the government was also aware of expectations of the GNFS to receive new appliances to augment what was available for operational and administrative use, and stressed the commitment of the government to resource the service with the needed tools and equipment. This is very much evident in the number of projects that have sprung up at the Fire Academy and Training School in the spate of one year. This expansion has enabled the Fire Academy and Training School to accommodate and train recruits three times more than its previous capacity, the Vice-President said. Trainees have also been offered a more comfortable life while on training, and issues of overcrowding and the lack of basic amenities are now a thing of the past, he added. Advice While charging the personnel to do more to curb the outbreak of fires and intensify fire education, Dr Bawumia advised the graduating officers not to rest on their oars but to strive even harder as firefighters. Gender Ministry introduces helpline to address abuse, complaints Beatrice Laryea Sep - 18 - 2023 , 05:35 The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has called on victims of sexual and gender-based violence to make use of its Helpline of Hope Call Centre to report abuse, complaints and grievances. The toll-free lines for the call centre are 0800800800, 0800900900 and 0800111222 and they form part of the ministrys efforts to address gender-based violence in the country. The call was made in a speech read on behalf of the Gender Minister, Hajia Lariba Zuweira Abudu, at the 2023 Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church National Womens Ministries Congress held at the University of Ghana, Legon. Purpose A Director at the ministry, Matilda Bamfo, who read the speech on behalf of the minister, noted that the move was to enable Ghanaians, especially women and children, to easily report cases of abuse affecting them. These abuses affect the countrys economic growth and development since they are disadvantaged in utilising the countrys full human potential, particularly the female population, which forms the majority, she said. She encouraged women to take advantage of the newly introduced helpline to help fight against all forms of abuse in the efforts to build a safe and prosperous society for all. She also congratulated the SDA Church for creating a platform to empower women by addressing critical issues that affected them in the country. In attendance were the Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, Lydia Alhassan; Director of Public Affairs at the University of Ghana, Dr Elizier Taiba Ameyaw-Buronyah; President of the Southern Ghana Union Conference, Dr Thomas Techie Ocran; Northern Ghana Union Conference Womens Ministries Director, Vida Linda Gyasi; and Southern Ghana Union Conference Womens Ministries Director, Christiana Agyenim Boateng Congress The five-day congress which opened on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, brought together about 4,000 women from across the country. It was held on the theme "Empowered to Go: Get Involved Now." Some of the critical issues scheduled for discussion at the quadrennial event were the critical importance of education, abuse against women, curbing teenage pregnancy, skills training for women and community empowerment. There were workshops and training for the women on topics such as handling sexuality in marriage, building bridges, women and stress-related issues, creating wealth, parenting and the act of fundraising. There were also prayer convocations and musical concerts. COP George Alex Mensah officially retires from police service and declares intention to run for political office Getrude Ankah Nyavi Sep - 18 - 2023 , 14:26 Commissioner of Police (COP), Mr George Alex Mensah has officially retired from the Ghana Police Service after reaching the compulsory retirement age of 60. Related: Ill contest Bekwai Parliamentary seat in 2024 retired COP George Alex Mensah confirms Following his retirement, Mr George Alex Mensah has announced his intention to contest the Bekwai parliamentary seat in the Ashanti Region. He has been on leave prior to retirement in the last three months and officially retired Monday, Sept 18, 2023, from the Ghana Police Service after a dedicated 31-year service. COP Alex Mensah has been in the spotlight due to his involvement in a leaked tape containing a discussion on why the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare should be removed from office since in his view he was one of the "worse" IGPs the Police Service has ever had. He has since appeared before a Parliamentary Committee tasked with investigating the contents on the tape. In a radio interview with Accra based Angel FM Mr George Alex Mensah said he has decided to run for political office and represent the Bekwai Constituency in Parliament. He stated, I have thought about it and I will run as MP, I have been thinking about it for a long time and I have taken a decision, so I will contest. I am from Asante Bekwai and I will contest for the seat. He, however, did not specify which political party under whose banner he plans to run. But when he appeared before the Special Parliamentary Committee, which is probing the leaked tape in which he is head discussing with Daniel Bugri Naabu why Dr Dampare should be removed from office as IGP, he admitted that, his family and his himself have long been members of the UP party, from which the current New Patriotic Party (NPP) was formed. He said his sympathies and ties have always been for the NPP, and that was something he was never going to turn his back on. Tema loses shine - Haphazard development defaces Port City Della Russel Ocloo Sep - 17 - 2022 , 10:31 Tema, once recognised as an ideal city and the epicentre of industrialisation in the country, is losing its shine. Designed by the countrys first architect, Theodore S. Cler, the city, which was commissioned by the first President, Kwame Nkrumah, epitomised the beauty and serenity of urban settlement. But years of deterioration as a result of the influx of people in search of jobs without the corresponding infrastructure has left a good part of the well-laid-out city in a bad state. Nevertheless, the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA) believes that all is not lost, and has launched an initiative known as Let Tema Shine Again, which seeks to galvanise support from corporate entities and individuals within the Tema Metropolis to help restore the city to its former glory. According to the Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE), Yohane Armah Ashitey, the objective is to redesign many of the areas to host modern infrastructure akin to the Airport City in Accra, which has changed the face of the national capital. Past and present Originally a small fishing community, Tema was modelled and developed to be the centre of industrialisation, international trade and urban living. Being the home of the countrys first harbour, it was christened the Harbour City, flourishing in business activities and boasting well planned residential communities. The neat and excellently demarcated communities with well constructed roads were made more appealing by the green landscape reflecting what some people believed to be the values of elitism and power. Apart from all these, Tema also boasts of being in the centre of the world as the Greenwich Meridian - the imaginary line that divides the world into two parts - passing through the city. In 2014, the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) announced plans to turn the Greenwich Meridian into a tourism spot but those plans fizzled out. However, the story now is a departure from the past with the city becoming a pale shadow of its former glory. The increasing rate of urbanisation, especially the quest by many people to take advantage of the vibrant economic opportunities at the Harbour City, is putting intense pressure on existing facilities. Not only that, the beautiful beaches, former tourist attractions such as the now defunct meridian rock and its longitudinal crossing through Tema, Ave Maria Resort, Casinos, the former Meridian Hotel, the Lagoon Grove between Tema Manhean and Kpone are all merely history. Makeshift markets have sprung up on the shoulders of the roads, especially in Community One, with the authorities unable to contain the situation. The sanitation situation is not befitting of the status of the Harbour City, although the metropolitan assembly has been working hard to ensure some sanity. The overburdened infrastructure has resulted in crude methods of discharging untreated faecal waste directly into streams within the Kpone community, as well as the beaches along Sakumono and Tema Manhean. Many faecal processing units are unable to serve their purpose effectively due to damage to the facilities. Slums There is also the springing up of slums in the city, which hosts the countrys largest port and many industries, as a national embarrassment. Inadequate housing and job opportunities have become a major social problem among many city dwellers, leaving them to seek alternative living quarters by creating makeshift structures which have turned many of the communities into urban slums. Areas such as Communities One, Four and Seven, as well as parts of Community Two and the Tema Manhean community have seen many home owners undertake further developments on existing homes, thus distorting the beauty of the structures. Overstretched infrastructure The Secretary of the Tema Traditional Council, Nii Armah Somponu II, told the Daily Graphic in an interview in Tema last Wednesday that the decency of the city had been lost as people flocked in daily in search of greener pastures. The population growth, he said, had been on the ascendancy without a corresponding provision of facilities commensurate with the speed of growth being witnessed. In the circumstance, the few facilities have been overstretched, reducing their life span and the sanitation challenges associated with sewer leakages at the various central processing points are clear examples of what the city has become, Nii Somponu, who is also the Shippi of Tema, said. He further stated that job opportunities available presently could not match the thousands of people seeking jobs, and so people resorted to various social vices just to make ends meet. Nii Shippi said while the TMA and the Tema Development Corporation (TDC) were doing their best, it appears they are overwhelmed by the rate of population growth over the years. In the past, hardly would you ever see kiosks and container stores around but what do we see today? The people are here and there are no jobs for them. Meanwhile, they must do something to earn a living and also get a place of abode, he added. Let Tema Shine While the present haphazard development continues to deface the city, the MCE told the Daily Graphic that several developmental needs continued to challenge the city which previously was the cynosure of all eyes. Education in the metropolis has had its fair share of challenges, with many educational structures are in very bad conditions, posing challenges to teachers, students and the communities in which they are located, Mr Ashitey said. The assembly, the MCE said, was determined to revive the fortunes of the city, which required the support of industries within Tema. Our desire will be to see companies adopting projects in the area of health, education, slum redevelopment, among other areas, in line with their corporate social responsibilities, while we at TMA also pursue the central government to facilitate the reconstruction of many of the industrial road networks, Mr Ashitey said. Ghanas educational system in disarray Former Education Minister Daily Graphic Sep - 18 - 2023 , 05:52 The educational system in Ghana, especially the senior high school (SHS), is currently in disarray due to the misuse of public funds meant for the provision of infrastructure, textbooks, computers, science laboratories and learning accessories by officials, the 2020 NDC running mate to former President John Dramani Mahama, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has observed. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang, who is also a former Minister of Education, said in addition to the misuse of public funds, the introduction of the shift system in both the basic and secondary education had worsened the plight of students and parents and negatively impacted on the educational system. Prof. Naana Opoku-Agyemang made the disclosure at the Speech and Prize Giving Day of the John Dramani Mahama Basic School at Mamprobi, Accra, where she represented former President John Mahama, who could not honour the invitation due to unforeseen circumstances. The event was to recognise learners and teachers who did well to impact positively on the school. Other dignitaries at the ceremony included Hon. Okoe Vanderpuiye, Member of Parliament for Ablekuma South, and Mrs Monica Ansaba, Director of Education of the Ablekuma Central Education Directorate. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang, on behalf of ex-President John Mahama, presented an amount of 10,000 Ghana cedis to the school. Holistic education Speaking on the theme: Holistic Education, The Role of Stakeholders, the former first female Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast said given the potential for state resources to significantly contribute to the improvement in the quality of education, it was unfortunate that the contrary was the case in the country today. She said it was to help improve quality education that former President John Mahama strategically placed emphasis on technical and vocational education and urged students to pursue such courses that would have positive impact in their future. Teachers Prof. Naana Opoku-Agyemang expounded the virtues of teachers who tirelessly impart knowledge and help in moulding future leaders for the country as well as their ability to influence human behaviour and lives. The headteacher of the John Dramani Mahama Basic School, Mr Bennet Kwame Azaglo, commended the parents and students of the school for their cooperation and academic performances and appealed to the educational authorities to assist the school with computer laboratory and other learning accessories. Health outreach programme for Zongo communities launched Linda Sah & Diana Mensah Sep - 18 - 2023 , 05:33 A health outreach programme aimed at supporting 20,000 residents within the inner-cities and Zongo communities across the country has been launched. Dubbed improving the health of inner-city and zongo residents; a pre-requisite for socio-economic development, it would provide essential medical care, health education, and support services to these residents. It was also an effort to ferry health care services to the door steps of the Zongo and Inner-city communities. The National Coordinator for Zongo and Inner -Cities development Secretariat, office of the president, Alhaj Ben Abdallah Banda called on stakeholders to provide accessible, affordable and available health care services. The initiative is a partnership between the Zongo Inner-City Development Secretariat(ZICDS) and the Iran Clinic. Reaffirm Mr Banda stated that the outreach would improve the well-being of Zongo and Inner city communities to reaffirm their commitment to the principles of equity, inclusivity, social justice towards the Sustainable Development Goal 3-Good Health and Well-being. As we all know, the true wealth of a nation is the health and well-being of its people. It is however worthy to state in caveat that the right and access to health will not necessarily amount to healthy living if we are not cautious of what we eat and drink, he said. Mr Banda who is also the Hajj Board Chairman, called all stakeholders including chiefs and imams to collaborate with ZICDS and Iran clinic to be architects of present and future healthier populations in the country. Support Healthcare The Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Bijan Gerami Nazoksara, highlighted the need for the Iranian community to support healthcare. He said the outreach would connect both nations as good health is close to making progress and achieving prosperity. He said a strong and healthy population was essential for the advancement of a society in order to promote the welfare of communities. Reduce Dependency The Member of Parliament for the Klottey Korle Constituency Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, said the initiative would reduce dependency on government to provide services for people in communities who may not be able to afford the kind of health care that they require. That she lauded the Iranian Red Crescent Society Iran Clinic Ghana for their commitment to provide health care service to improve the lives of the less privileged in the sub region. 'This launch would extend the service of the Iran Clinic Ghana to other sectors within the constituency. It is easy to overlook some parts of the constituency because of it structure as there's a huge deal of deprivation and poverty in our communities, she said. She was hopeful that the health outreach would elevate and touch the lives of many within the community in a holistic way adding ''the impact of the outreach would affects people beyond those within the borders of the country, communities and ethnic groups''. Mr Suleman appealed to the Iranian Red Crescent Society Iran Clinic to look within their resources to extend their services to other parts of the country. He expressed hope that the partnership would go far to support the government's agenda to deliver healthcare for the people within the country. Karpower, GridCO, Ghana Gas engage Sekondi fisherfolk Daily Graphic Sep - 18 - 2023 , 05:31 Three companies in the power production sector have jointly engaged the local fishing community within the Sekondi Fishing Harbour in Takoradi to educate them on the impact their operations are having on the community. The companies are Karpowership Ghana Company, Ghana National Gas Company (GNGC) and Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) . An initiative of Karpowership Ghana, it formed part of its regular stakeholder engagement programme to mobilise a critical stakeholder group made up of community leaders, fishermen and women whose fishing related activities fall within the operational zone of Karpower and its other utility partners, GNGC and GRIDCo. The interaction also offered an opportunity for the three power companies to connect with and update the fisherfolk on work done and future plans for them while the fisherfolk also raised concerns and provided feedback. The Head of Corporate Communications at Karpowership Ghana, Sandra Amarquaye, reaffirmed her company's commitment to operate within approved environmental guidelines, meet the community's needs and actively listen to their feedback and concerns. While commending the fisherfolk for their attendance, Ms Amarquaye emphasised the recognition of the fishing community as crucial stakeholders and their commitment to maintaining open discussions. We are committed to not just listening to you but also meeting your needs while we generate electricity that feeds the national grid in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way. You form part of our very important stakeholders hence the need to always come to you and listen to your concerns and take your feedback to enhance our operations, Karpower Ghanas Head of Corporate Communications stated. GRIDCos Manager, Corporate Communications, Dzifa Bampoe, described the stakeholder engagement as a crucial activity for her company as it provided a platform to discuss threats and safety issues with the fisherfolk. The stakeholder engagement is important for GRIDCo to explain its engineering work within the context of safety, so the fishers operate with care around the transmission lines to avoid any hazard. It is also essential to address any concerns and receive feedback from the fishers to maintain a harmonious relationship. The Community Relations and CSR Manager of Ghana Gas, Francis Badu, commended Karpowership for bringing together the key players in electricity production and distribution operating in the Sekondi Naval base to engage with the fishing community. The fishing community and other attendees expressed their desire for more collaboration, and used the forum to ask questions not only bordering on their safety within the catchment area but also with regard to power supply and related matters. Lets support school heads to instil discipline Afetsi charges stakeholders Emmanuel Bonney Sep - 18 - 2023 , 05:33 Stakeholders in education must endeavour to support heads of second cycle schools to instil discipline in students in the various institutions. This is to ensure that students churned out of the schools are well disciplined and ready to lead wherever they find themselves. The President of the Foundation for Generational Thinkers (FOGET), Prosper Afetsi, who said this, noted that instilling discipline in students was critical to their development and having a moral society, hence the need to give heads all the support to whip students in line. He, therefore, said parents, guardians, parent-teacher-association, religious institutions as well as community and opinion leaders must support school authorities to correct their children and bring them to order. Issue Responding to the recent issue in which the Assistant Headmaster of the Presbyterian Senior High School, Nkwatia, assaulted a student, he said the issue should not be generalised to the extent that other teachers might relax, thereby leading to the breakdown of discipline. This case is an isolated one and we are not condoning the action of the assistant headmaster. We totally condemn it and that the head should take full responsibility for his action and it is good that the Ghana Education Service has stepped into the matter, he said. Mr Afetsi said his position was that there was so much indiscipline in the society and among students and so it would be in order to support heads to deal with the problem, adding that parents too had the responsibility to ensure that their children adhered to the rules and regulations of schools. Indiscipline So we need the heads and teachers to curb indiscipline in the system. If we crucify heads because of an isolated case, others might relax and then affect the system, he said. I am not saying what the teacher did is right and that he should be left to go scot-free. But I am saying that there are acts of indiscipline among students that must be dealt with before they got out of hands. For instance, you see final year students refusing to eat school meals and breaking bounds because they are going to leave the school. Regarding the Presbyterian SHS case, he said the extent to which the student was handled was totally wrong and uncalled for and that the head should not have used anger to punish her. The reason for punishment is to correct and not to assault the person, he said, adding that school heads must also be measured in the level of punishment they give to students. He said any punishment meted out to students must be within the rules and regulations of the GES and nothing else. Background The GES, in a statement, criticised the reported assault of the student by the Assistant Headmaster (Academics) of Presbyterian SHS, Nkwatia. Photographs and videos of the student's bruised face have been widely circulated on social media generating widespread outrage. The GES denounced the assistant headmaster's actions, adding that it had taken decisive action by relieving him of his duties. Simultaneously, it said the student was being provided with necessary medical attention and counselling. The GES also confirmed that the Eastern Regional Director of Education was 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. New trade standards enforcement begins - To check substandard products Kester Aburam Korankye Sep - 18 - 2023 , 12:00 The Ministry of Trade and Industry has started implementing new standards in the local business space to discourage trade in substandard goods in the country. The move comes as part of the government's efforts to improve the quality of goods on the Ghanaian market and protect consumers from potentially harmful products. The Minister of Trade and Industry, Kobina Tahir Hammond, has consequently pledged to enforce the relevant trade standards in order to encourage trade in quality goods in the country. The minister said the government would work closely with the relevant agencies, particularly the Ghana Standards Authority, to ensure that only high-quality goods were manufactured, imported or sold in the country. This will involve rigorous testing and inspection of products before they are allowed onto the market, as well as increased penalties for those found to be selling substandard goods, he said. Appointment Mr Hammond was speaking to the media after he appointed the Director-General of the Ghana Standards Authority, Professor Alexander Nii Oto Dodoo, as the Custodian of Weights and Measures in Ghana. The appointment, effective September 11, 2023, is in line with Section 60 of the Ghana Standards Authority Act, 2022 (Act 1078). The minister said over the years, the development and enforcement of standards had been relegated to the background, emboldening rogue manufacturers and traders to flood to markets with substandard products. Beyond ridding the markets of substandard goods and services which could be detrimental for the countrys development and the health of individuals, the minister said the new era of standards enforcement would also expose Ghanaian businesses to the international market. Mr Hammond said his commitment to enhance fairness and accuracy in trade through the enforcement of standards in trade and commerce was non-negotiable. Statement A statement issued by the ministry last Thursday said the Director-General, as the custodian, is expected to appoint and deploy inspectors of weights and measures for the effective administration of weights and measures. As provided for under the Ghana Standards Authority Act, the inspectors shall examine every weight, measure or instrument for trade and industry, including health, safety and environment devices, for the purpose of verification. They will also compare the weight, measure or instrument with the corresponding working standards, it said. Already, about 250 trade standards officers are undergoing training to be deployed as inspectors across the country. The appointment is to ensure that Ghana aligns with international standards in metrology (the science of weights and measurement), which is vital for international trade and collaboration, and establish Ghana as a reliable and compliant partner on the global stage. The Custodian, empowered by Section 62 of the Act, has the power to enter premises and require the production and examination of the weight, measure or instrument in that place. The inspectors can seize the weight, measure or instrument for the purpose of comparing the seized weight, measure or instrument with a working standard. It is an offence to obstruct an inspector in his line of duty, it stated. It added that the Ministry of Trade and Industry, in collaboration with the Ghana Standards Authority, would implement extensive engagements with the business community and the trading public to create awareness of the importance of weights and measures, and the impact they have on businesses and trade. Accurate measurements are fundamental to economic growth as they instil confidence in consumers, ensure that consumers receive what they pay for, and that businesses operate on a level playing field, the statement stated. Undertake reforms on convergence criteria Dr Bawumia Chris Nunoo Sep - 18 - 2023 , 05:31 The Vice-President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has urged member states of the West African Monetary Zone to undertake meaningful reforms to achieve the convergence criteria to avoid the vicious cycle of endless postponements. He also called on them to take ownership of the convergence programme by mainstreaming it into their national macroeconomic frameworks. Dr Bawumia, who made the call at the closing of the mid-year statutory meeting of the West Africa Monetary Agency (WAMA), West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management (WAIFEM) and the West Africa Monetary Institute (WAMI) in Accra last Friday, said the inability of the member states to improve upon and sustain performances on the convergence criteria was one of the key challenges of the WAMZ member states, as no member state had met all four primary convergence criteria as of December 2022 and June 2023. Convergence The 50th meeting of the convergence council of ministers and governors of central banks of member states of the WAMZ was attended by ministers of finance and governors of the central banks of the respective countries. It was hosted by the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank of Ghana to review the performance of the member states on the implementation of the roadmap activities for the ECOWAS single currency programme, achievements made, challenges encountered and the way forward. While we remain determined to meet the prerequisites for the formation of a monetary union in ECOWAS, Dr Bawumia said our economies continue to face challenges from both internal and external shocks. He was, however, hopeful that the meeting would proffer actionable recommendations for the achievement of a monetary union in ECOWAS. Efforts He, therefore, stressed the need for member states to double their efforts at ensuring macroeconomic convergence and stability which he said were the necessary conditions for the take-off of a monetary union. I have been informed that WAMI, with the financial support of the African Development Bank in the amount of US$9million, will soon launch the Unique Bank Identity (UBI) Project, intended to ensure bank customer identification and secure digital banking transactions, he said. He said a model legislative instrument had been drafted for adoption by the member states to meet the regulatory needs of the emerging financial technological innovations in a globally interconnected financial ecosystem. Additionally, he said, significant strides had also been made in debt and capital market integration as well as insurance integration in the WAMZ. Focusing on Ghana, he said: We in Ghana are committed to restoring macroeconomic stability that forms the basis of sustainable economic growth and development. The Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, said on the regional front, growth in the WAMZ was estimated at 3.3 per cent in 2022 against 3.9 per cent in 2021, while it slowed down in the WAEMU to 5.9 per cent in 2022, from 6.1 per cent in 2021. Additionally, he said, the aggregate fiscal deficit increased to 5.2 per cent of GDP in 2022 from 4.5 per cent in 2021 with the stock of public debt in the WAMZ region rising to 30.3 per cent of GDP at end-December 2022, from 30 per cent of GDP at end-December 2021. We wont support coup - Ghana Armed Forces assures Joshua Bediako Koomson & Mildred Asaah Sep - 18 - 2023 , 07:12 The military has pledged to protect the Constitution and the sovereign will of the people, and not to engage in any activity that will threaten the peace and democracy of the state. The coups in West Africa are a major concern, but, for us, we are resolved to protecting the Constitution and the will of the people. If the people decide that democracy is the type of governance they want, then we need to respect that, the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Vice Admiral Seth Amoama, said last Friday when the leadership of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) paid a courtesy call on him at his office in Accra. Our mandate is to protect the territorial integrity of the State, and we are focused on that. So, when you hear any news of coup, you should be assured that the Ghana Armed Forces is not interested in governance. We believe that if the people dont want the government, they have a maximum of four years to change it, he said. The GJA team, led by its President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, embarked on the visit to discuss issues of mutual interest between the GAF and the GJA. Coup detats The CDS noted that coup detats were matters of the past. With the current state of the nations development, he said, almost every individual in the country understood that governance was not part of the mandate of the GAF. Its mostly the press who put the fear of military coup in the people, but I want to assure you that we have the interest of the nation at heart. Everybody should be rest assured that the military is focused on protecting the territorial integrity of the nation, and not anything that will bring destruction, Vice Admiral Amoama stated. Unethical reportage He further commended the GJA and the entire media fraternity for the crucial role they played in protecting the will of the people in the country. He noted that the GAF and the GJA had enjoyed some cordial relationships over the years even though there was still room for improvement. There are some few issues of unethical behaviour of some members of the association, especially the rush to publish unsubstantiated stories and also draw the GAF into the politics of the nation. Media coverage on security issues could be better when we are often consulted before our stories are published, Vice Admiral Amoama said. He said the GAF operated an open door policy, and through that it had engaged with a number of institutions to build cordial relationships. Notable among them, he said, was the Ghana Bar Association (GBA). We have built a very good relationship with the GBA to the extent that they would want to have a discussion with us before they issue a statement on any particular issue. One example is our recent operations in Ashaiman in the Greater Accra Region. They consulted us, and we explained to them the circumstances which led to that operation and they clearly understood why that operation was necessary, the CDS said. On that same issue, he said, the GAF received a lot of media backlash, but I believe if we had had a better interaction, the picture which was painted out there wouldve been different. He also encouraged the media to look at the positive stories from the GAF, adding that its not only negative news that sells but there are also positive developments in the GAF that could also sell. Media-military relationship Mr Dwumfour said for some time now the military-media relationship had grown from strength to strength, and that the countrys democracy had continued to grow because of that cordial relationship. He said through that cordial relationship, the media were able to undertake their responsibility in peace and without fear of military interference. He further gave an assurance of the GJAs readiness to enhance the bond between the military and the media fraternity. In that regard, he said, the GJA would continue to have periodic engagement with the leadership of the GAF to seek better and innovative ways of keeping the bond. Dont make a mistake and remove Dampare from office as IGP - Ken Agyapong to NPP Getrude Ankah Nyavi Politics Sep - 18 - 2023 , 17:29 Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, the Chairman of the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament has said removing Dr George Akuffo Dampare as the Inspector General of Police (IGP) would signify one of the mistakes of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government. Mr Agyapong, who is the Member of Parliament for Assin Central and aspiring to lead the NPP to Election 2024 said Dr Dampares excellent performance as IGP was evident for all to see. In a radio interview with Kumasi based Kessben FM over the weekend, Mr Agyapong said there has been significant reduction in robberies across the country since Dr Dampare took over as the IGP. His call comes in the wake of public interest in the work of the special parliamentary committee set up to investigate the alleged plot to remove Dampare by some senior police officers as captured on a tape. Mr Agyapong said Dr Dampare is one of the best IGP Ghana has ever had, hence the government should not fall to any plot to remove him from office. How many times have you heard of armed robbery since Dampare was made IGP? People were being killed and their money was being stolen in broad daylight. How many times have you seen this since Dampare came into office? Under him, the rate of armed robbery has reduced drastically, he said. He was of the view that the IGP was not being treated fairly, Since I became the head of the Defence and Interior Committee, we have had a number of IGPs, and this man (Dampare), what he has done, I dont think we are being fair to him Dont make the mistake of removing him. Mr Agyapong also said the IGP has transformed the police headquarters such that the place now looks so clean and beautiful. "I have called one of the guys (in the leaked tape) who is from my village and blasted him. We dont like change, he added. If you go to the police headquarters, you will realize that the man (Dr Dampare) has done well I have fought with him once because of his refusal to act when the killer of J.B. Danquah confessed to him, but he has done really well, Related articles: IGP Dampare rebuts allegations of secret meetings with former President Mahama IGP Dampare denies "One-Man Show" allegations IGP Dampare to appear before committee probing Bugri Naabu tape on Tuesday IGP Dampare did the recording and leaked it - COP Mensah PLAYBACK: When the 3 police officers said to be lobbying for IGP Dampare's removal appeared before Parliamentary Committee Ill contest Bekwai Parliamentary seat in 2024 retired COP George Alex Mensah confirms Graphic.com.gh Politics Sep - 18 - 2023 , 17:42 Mr George Alex Mensah, who retired today [Sept 18, 2023] as a Commissioner of Police (COP) has announced his intention to contest the Bekwai parliamentary seat in the Ashanti Region. He has been on leave prior to retirement in the last three months and officially retired Monday, Sept 18, from the Ghana Police Service after a dedicated 31-year career. COP Alex Mensah has been in the spotlight due to his involvement in a leaked tape discussing the removal of Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, since in his view he was the "worse" IGP the Police Service has ever had. He has since appeared before the Parliamentary Committee tasked with investigating this matter. In a radio interview with Accra based Angel FM Mr George Alex Mensah said he has decided to run for political office and represent the Bekwai Constituency in Parliament. He stated, I have thought about it and I will run as MP, I have been thinking about it for a long time and I have taken a decision, so I will contest. I am from Asante Bekwai and I will contest for the seat. He, however, did not specify which political party under whose banner he plans to run. But when he appeared before the Special Parliamentary Committee, which is probing the leaked tape in which he is head discussing with Daniel Bugri Naabu why Dr Dampare should be removed from office as IGP, he admitted that, his family and his himself have long been members of the UP party, from which the current New Patriotic Party (NPP) was formed. He said his sympathies and ties have always been for the NPP, and that was something he was never going to turn his back on. It is not true NDC left a derailed IMF programme in 2017 - Minority Getrude Ankah Nyavi Politics Sep - 18 - 2023 , 12:00 The Minority in Parliament has reacted to the Minister of Finance's claim that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) left behind a derailed International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme in 2017. The Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta in an article last week said the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government in 2017 inherited a derailed IMF programme and a highly impaired and ethically strained financial industry from our predecessors. This followed a call by the Minority for the resignation of the Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) for allegedly mismanaging the central bank. In a press statement dated Monday, September 18, issued by the Minority, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, he indicated that the NDC government under Mr John Mahama left behind a robust economy with very strong buffers. He said the Mahama government left behind the Sinking Fund, Stabilisation Fund, Ghana Infrastructure Investment Bank (GIIF), Ghana EXIM Bank as well as a robust tax revenue and oil revenue from three oil fields which the NPP used to kick start their administration. Furthermore, he said the NDC initiated a "strong" tax policy and a prudent and controlled expenditure regime, including the Government Integrated Financial Management Systems (GIFMIS). Yet the NPP came in and processed expenditure outside the GIFMIS architecture. Attached below is a copy of Minority's press statement. Latest News Headlines from Ghana Western Region to host 3rd International Coconut Festival Ghana Sep - 18 - 2023 , 16:45 This year's event bears the theme; "Invest in Ghana's Coconut Sector for an Inclusive Climate and Social Resilience." There will be a diverse array of activities, including a trade exhibition, a seminar, and mentorship sessions tailored for young individuals and women in the coconut sector. Additionally, the programme will feature economic and technical negotiations, fostering networking opportunities among participants, and visits to coconut farms. Striking similarities The Regional Minister and Member of Parliament for Takoradi, Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, made the announcement during a visit to the office of the Nigerian High Commissioner to Ghana, Ibok-Ete Ibas. While extending an official invitation to Mr Ibas for the upcoming event, he underlined the striking similarities between Ghana and Nigeria and called for the strengthening of trade relations that would mutually benefit both nations. Mr Darko-Mensah encouraged Nigerian business leaders and investors to visit Takoradi for the event, highlighting Nigeria as the largest buyer of Ghana's coconuts, predominantly sourced from the Southwestern region of Ghana. Strategic partnerships Mr Ibas reciprocated the sentiment, urging business owners from both countries to forge strategic partnerships, thereby harnessing the advantages of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). Coconut production in Ghana Ghana incorporated coconut into the portfolio of the Tree Crop Development Authority (TCDA) in 2019. The body has the mandate to develop and regulate the production, processing, marketing, and export of coconut and other selected tree crops. As per statistics from the Food and Agriculture Organisation Corporate Statistical Database for 2017, Ghana claimed the 14th spot among the world's foremost coconut producers, boasting a production of 383,960 metric tonnes in that year alone. The non-traditional export figures for 2022 were indicative of the coconut sector's substantial economic contribution. Notably, earnings from both fresh and processed coconuts reached 6.3 million dollars and 6 million dollars, respectively. Ghana's export of desiccated coconut also emerged as a standout performer. Exports in this category rose to $21.9 million in 2021, a significant increment from $6.3 million in 2020 and $3.8 million in 2019, securing the nation a commendable 9th position in global desiccated coconut exports. Qualcomm released over the weekend the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 a chipset, built on the 4nm process technology, that is meant to be a solution for phone makers that want a capable platform that can fit within a far lower budget than the Gen 8 chips. The CPU of the 7s is less powerful than any other Snapdragon 7 series chip, the ISP is also not as impressive, indicating a slightly lower positioning overall. Some rumors suggested the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 could arrive with the Redmi Note 13 series, scheduled to launch this month. The name might sound confusing, because there wasn't a first-generation 7s or a second-gen Snapdragon 7. Also, we don't know what s stands for, but is clearly a marker for slashed specs. The CPU has four cores at 2.4 GHz for performance and the other four at 1.95 GHz for efficiency. The Adreno GPU is unspecified, but it is listed to support FHD+ resolution at 144 Hz. The FastConnect 6700 connectivity platform is a step back from the 6900 on the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2, and with it the peak DL speed is just 2.9 Gbps, while the Bluetooth supported is capped at 5.2, which still supports low-energy audio. The Spectra ISP supports a smartphone with a single camera up to 200 MP and 4K video capture at 30 fps. Memory is LPDRR5 at 3200 MHz, while other features include USB-C 3.1 and Quick Charge 4+. Qualcomm did not officially release a timeframe in which we'll see devices with the new chipset. Source Xiaomi is gearing to release its Redmi Note 13 lineup on Thursday in China with at least three entries Note 13, Note 13 Pro and Note 13 Pro+ and we now have confrimation on the chipset for the Note 13 Pro. The upcoming Xiaomi midranger will debut with the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 Qualcomms latest midrange chipset which was announced over the weekend. Redmi Note 13 Pro Geekbench listing The latest 7-series chipset from Qualcomm is fabbed on a 4nm process and features an eight-core CPU with 4 performance cores clocked at 2.4GHz and four efficiency units humming at 1.9GHz. The 7s Gen 2 is a step behind the 7+ Gen 2 in terms of connectivity with a less capable FastConnect 6700 connectivity system. Elsewhere, Redmi Note 13 Pro (Xiaomi 2312CRAD3C) will feature up to 16GB RAM as per the listing and boots Android 13, presumably with MIUI 14 on top. Xiaomi also confirmed that the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ will launch with the Dimensity 7200-Ultra chipset which leaves the regular Note 13 as the only missing link ahead of the announcement. Via Residents of Barrigada can look forward to some clearer rights-of-way as the Barrigada mayors office will begin the collection of abandoned vehicles this week, starting Monday. Vehicles must be placed on a government easement or right-of-way in order to be picked up, according to the mayors office. If a resident would like a vehicle removed, they can contact the Barrigada mayors office at (671)734-3737 or (671)734-3859. Residents can also visit the mayors office for more information. The Barrigada community center is still undergoing renovations. As a safety precaution, the mayors office has closed the center for reservations until further notice. We apologize for any inconvenience, shared the Barrigada mayors office. The office also shared ahead of time that the Barrigada community will once again be celebrating their Annual Halloween Haunted House Drive-Thru on Oct. 27. The drive-thru will run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the parking lot of the Barrigada childrens park. Treat bags will be provided for children from the ages of zero to 10 years old. Residents interested in donating individually packaged chips, cookies or candies can do so by visiting or calling the mayors office at (671)734-3737 or (671)734-3859. Residents are also reminded to keep all pets leashed on their private properties for the safety of students walking to or from bus shelters and the respective schools in the village. Delegate James Moylan and some of his colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives introduced a bill seeking to raise the mandatory minimum jail time for those convicted of child trafficking. The bill is known as the Combating Human-Trafficking of Innocent Lives Daily, or C.H.I.L.D., Act of 2023. Moylans co-sponsors for the C.H.I.L.D. Act are Rep. Don Davis of North Carolina, Rep. Diana Harshbarger of Tennessee, Rep. Don Bacon of Nebraska and Delegate Aumua Amata Radewagen of American Samoa. The bill seeks to amend Chapter 77, Section 1591 of Title 18 of the United States Code by raising the mandatory minimum years of imprisonment for engaging in the trafficking of any persons under the age of 18. This legislation would: Make the sentence for traffickers exploiting victims under the age of 18 the same regardless of their age. A child is still a minor and there should not be differentiation. Increase the minimum sentence to 25 years for those who are convicted of child trafficking. This will convey the serious nature of their crime and ensure that traffickers know they will be punished if they continue to exploit minors. Current law states that if convicted of trafficking a victim under the age of 14, there is a minimum of 15 years imprisonment. If convicted of trafficking a victim between 14 and 17 years old, the minimum sentence is 10 years imprisonment. My message is clear. Sex trafficking is a heinous crime that will not be tolerated. Current laws are too soft on these criminals, Moylan said in a statement. I am committed to ensuring stricter laws and harsher punishments are implemented for anyone who harms innocent children. If enacted, this law would send out a strong message to those who engage in child sex trafficking. Davis, in a statement, said anyone who is found guilty of trafficking children must face justice. That is why I am proud to cosponsor the C.H.I.L.D. Act, much-needed legislation that increases criminal punishment for human traffickers. Congress must protect our children from exploitation, sexual abuse, and other unspeakably evil acts at all costs, Davis said. Radewagen, for her part, said human trafficking is one of the greatest crimes imaginable, yet it is a sad reality that we must defeat. Thank you to Congressman Moylan for his leadership on this important issue as we fight for the lives and futures of vulnerable children, she said. Bacon said those engaged in trafficking innocent children and should be punished to the fullest extent of the law. Anyone under the age of 18 is particularly vulnerable, and we should be making every effort to protect minors from this evil, and raising the mandatory minimum sentencing will help protect children, Bacon said. Child sex trafficking remains a pressing issue in the United States. In 2021, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received over 17,200 reports of child sex trafficking in all 50 states, affecting every type of community including cities, rural areas, and tribal land. Joe Bidens open borders policies continue to aid cartels and criminals in their human trafficking operations, and are putting the lives of American children at risk, Harshbarger said in a statement. According to a National Center for Missing and Exploited Children report from 2021, out of the 25,000 missing runaway children, one out of six are likely to be victims of sex trafficking. Offenders often target vulnerable children who are of lower income, live in dangerous circumstances, and seek out better lives for themselves. Victims come from all backgrounds and become trapped in a never-ending cycle of threats, abuse, false promises, isolation, shame, and debt. These victims are deprived of something every child deserves: a future. By enacting more stringent penalties, the C.H.I.L.D. Act of 2023 aims to bring justice for the victims and families affected by child trafficking and issues a strong statement to traffickers, who leave a lifetime of scars on innocent children. Stealing a childs future is an unforgivable act, Carter said in a statement. This bill will bring justice to the millions of innocent families and victims who have been abused by human traffickers by ensuring that these criminals are punished to the fullest extent possible. In a bid to create jobs and help grow the economy, Sen. Dwayne San Nicolas introduced a bill seeking to allow the Department of Revenue and Taxation to issue conditional business licenses. Im looking for every avenue to support businesses and get people back to work, San Nicolas said in introducing Bill 168-37. The process of obtaining a business license on Guam is tedious and restrictive, often requiring a substantial amount of time to obtain the various permits and requirements necessary for a Guam business license, the bill said. When I ran for public office in 2022, I told the people of Guam that I want to grow the economy, which this bill, once passed, will do, San Nicolas said in a statement Monday. One of the major and daunting hurdles of starting a business is the process of applying for the necessary permits for a business license, a hurdle that can easily be remedied by providing a conditional license, according to the bill. A conditional license will also encourage more enterprising individuals to pursue their business aspirations by providing them leeway and flexibility to apply for the necessary permits and licenses for a business license. With the leeway provided by a conditional license, business-aspirants will not be dissuaded and discouraged if they fail to meet the standards, as they will have the time to address them properly. I intend to authorize the DRT to issue one-year conditional business licenses to qualifying businesses. This legislation will not only benefit the business sector of the island by providing them flexibility in adhering to the requirements of a business license, but also our government by creating a new avenue for revenue, the Democrat senator said. Under the bill, Revenue and Taxation will process conditional business licenses as it would other licenses, putting a reasonable fee on it and gaining a new revenue source for the agency, the bill said. Currently, depending on the type of business, applicants for a Guam business license will need to go through several Government of Guam agencies such as the Department of Public Works, Guam Land Use Commission, Department of Public Health and Social Services, and Guam Fire Department to obtain multiple permits. Each required permit mandates an inspection process before the permit is provided, which takes up valuable time. Delays in procuring these permits and requirements drastically impact and slow down the process of obtaining a business license to the point that some businesses are forced to cease operations or prevent newly established businesses from opening their doors to serve our island, hindering economic growth, the bill said. The bill also said allowing businesses to operate under a conditional business license will create more revenue for the government and encourage the growth of businesses on island. Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero, left, meets in Okinawa with Okinawa Gov. Denny Tamaki. The governors Sept. 14 to 18 trip gave ways for talks with officials there on tourism and the relocation of Marines from Okinawa to Guam. Roadblocks remain for the cannabis industry, officials said on Monday, referring to finding potential locations for their facilities, a testing laboratory and other regulations. The Department of Revenue and Taxation has seen an increase in the number of residents designated as responsible officials, who are authorized to possess, handle or transport cannabis. But while there are now up to 13 responsible officials with cannabis identification cards, they are still pending the final steps of their cannabis establishment licenses. Thats because the cannabis testing facility has still not fully completed their process, officials said at the meeting of the Cannabis Control Board. The latest feedback from (responsible officials) is real estate. Theyre making sure they find a facility that can accommodate a certain kind of filtering system for their laboratory equipment,, according to DRTs compliance branch. The facility that they had in mind is not compliant with the drug-free zone. Part of the drug-free zone and the cannabis law is the requirement of 250 feet away from a bus stop. All cannabis, prepared cannabis and cannabis products on Guam must be tested for potency and safety by a cannabis testing facility licensed by the Department of Public Health and Social Services before they can be sold to a consumer, according to Article 8, Section 9801 of the Cannabis Control Boards Rules and Regulations. The DRT compliance branch added that due to the testing facility having issues with their real estate, the other retail applicants are experiencing facility concerns of their own. A lot of them are worried about real estate with the drug-free zone requirement. Theyre also not committing to lease agreements until they get confirmation that the testing facility goes before the board, DRT compliance said. The testing facility is a hold-up for most of these applicants. None of them want to commit until theres movement. Vanessa Williams, chairwoman of the Cannabis Control Board, shared a breakdown of the 13 responsible officials on Guam and the types of establishments contemplated for each applicant. Two applicants for a Type I cultivation facility for cultivation of zero to 500 square feet of canopy One for a Type II cultivation facility for cultivation of 501 to 2,500 square feet of canopy Two for a Type IV cultivation facility for cultivation of 5,001 to 10,000 square feet of canopy One for a cannabis product manufacturing facility One for a cannabis testing facility Six for retail cannabis stores Therese Arriola, a board member representing the Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center, said the annual cannabis summit is considered to be held in January. We are looking to have it at the Guam Community College multi-purpose room, but we need to get confirmation on the dates of availability, she said. Williams also said the summit will be a big collaboration from all the interested agencies. A 17-year-old McDonalds employee whos helping his family make ends meet came to the rescue of a mother who realized she was short by a little over $1 to pay for the drive-thru meal she ordered for her family. I know what it feels like to be in her shoes, Ethan James N. Castro, whos only been working at the Maite branch of McDonalds a few months, said in an interview with the Pacific Daily News. Though financially struggling himself, he offered to pay for the rest of the strangers order. Castro, the oldest of 10 siblings and a senior student at Tiyan High School, said a dollar makes a whole lot of difference for many families on Guam, including his. He recalls a time when he was about to cancel his drive-thru order at another restaurant because he realized he didnt have enough money to complete the order. A stranger an employee of that restaurant offered to help him pay the difference. So that night when Castro was manning the drive-thru service, he paid forward the act of kindness he himself received in the past. She came through the drive-thru and then she didnt have enough money to get what she ordered so she told me to cancel it. I know how she feels, like when you dont have enough money to get what you wanted at the drive-thru. So I just stepped in and just paid for the rest of her order, Castro said. It was only when Castros customer reached out to McDonalds the following day that the fast food chain learned of Castros act of kindness and generosity. I was surprised that she did all of that. I didnt think it would go that far, Castro, a Maite resident, said. According to McDonalds, the unnamed customer sent this message about Castro: Ethan has shown exemplary customer service and displays the true value of living up to the McDonalds mission and values. Please extend my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation and, most of all this feedback, to Ethan. He made my children happy, and if they had a choice, they would eat McDonalds everyday. McDonalds of Guam is lucky to have Ethan. Kudos to Ethan for making my experience a wonderful one, and most of all, unparalleled, the customer wrote. When Castro got home that night from work, he told his mother, Jazmine Lujan, about his encounter with the customer. I tell her everything, Castro said, adding that his mom told him that shes proud of him. He said his mother instilled in him the value of hard work and kindness. Divina Evaristo, marketing coordinator for McDonalds of Guam, said the company presented Castro with a bag of goodies to show appreciation for a job well done. He went above and beyond, to help a customer, Evaristo said. We hope to have the rest of the island recognize what a good job he does. Haiti - UN : Participation of the PM in the 78th General Assembly of the United Nations Sunday September 17, 2023, Prime Minister a.i. Ariel Henry at the head of a Haitian delegation, left Port-au-Prince for New York, to participate in the 78th General Assembly of the United Nations. He is accompanied by representatives of the High Transitional Council, the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Planning and External Cooperation, Public Health and executives of the Prime Minister's Office. During his speech at the General Assembly on September 22, Ariel Henty "will reiterate his urgent request for robust support to the Haitian National Police (PNH) with a view to restoring security throughout the national territory" and "he will defend the rights and interests of the Haitian people, while respecting those of others," one read in the Prime Ministers press release. On the sidelines of this session, he will participate in numerous panels and bilateral meetings with heads of state and government from several countries in the Western Hemisphere, Africa, Europe and Asia. In the absence of the Prime Minister, the interim in Haiti is provided by Michel Patrick Boisvert, Minister of Economy and Finance. HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - FLASH : Dominican Republic does not seek confrontation with Haiti Sunday evening in a short televised speech, the President of the Dominican Republic, Luis Abinader, defended his decision to completely close the land, air and sea borders with Haiti as part of his dispute over the construction of an irrigation canal in Haiti with a water intake on the Massacre River which flows between the two Nations. Abinader said the border closure which has been in place since Friday September 16 at 6:00 a.m. will continue until the construction of this canal is suspended. "We neither wish nor seek confrontation, but we are faced with uncontrollable people who maintain insecurity in Haiti and who, because of their private interests, are now also conspiring against the stability of their government and the security of our resources in water." "[...] This is not a conflict between two peoples, because neither the Dominican people nor the Haitian people want confrontation. "[...] The precedent of an irrigation project built unilaterally can lead to an escalation of construction that would destroy the river," Abinader underlined "[...] We understood the need to react forcefully in self-defense against uncontrollable groups who do not obey the Haitian constitutional order and do not recognize bilateral agreements. "[...] Why did we act ? To prevent our rivers from drying up, our forests from being cut down or our wildlife from disappearing. "[...] Our objective is to ensure security and the national interest, as well as to protect our rivers, our environment and our agricultural production." One might believe that the Dominican Republic refuses any sharing of water, yet reading the history, it seems rather that it is more the form than the substance that is in question. Let's recall that in 1978 Haiti and the DR, in a search for mutual benefits, the Ministers of Foreign Affairs Ramon Emilio Jimenez Jr. (DR) and Edner Brutus (Haiti) reached consensus and signed an agreement for the construction of an "international diversion dam" on the Pedernales River. This aimed for an equal distribution of water so that the inhabitants of the Pedernales region and the Haitian commune of Anse-a-Pitre, bordering Dominican territory, could benefit from the resource equitably, until These days. This is how the Pedernales River was divided by this dam which, according to what has been established, provides 0.25 cubic meters per second of the diverted flow for each country. The location of this infrastructure was precisely determined by the Joint Bilateral Supervision Commission. The work was financed by the two governments, each contributing 50% of the total cost. On November 30, 1979, after a bilateral agreement, the presidents of the two countries (Antonio Guzman and Jean Claude Duvalier) met to inaugurate work on a border tributary, similar to the one currently in conflict... Should be noted that on April 14, 2023, the Dominican-Haitian Bilateral Joint Commission reported on the study of a project to adapt the Pedernales River and the cleaning of its diversion dam with the aim of increasing driving capacity of water through the Pedernales River channel. SL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - News : Zapping... Muscular operation against the Savien Gang Saturday, September 16, agents of the National Police of Haiti (PNH) carried out a muscular operation in Savien (Dept. Artibonite) during which several members of the "Gran Grif" gang were killed during exchanges of fire with the police, according to several witnesses. Justin Trudeau will talk from Haiti to New York The Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau announced that he will travel to New York, from September 19 to 21, 2023, to participate in the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly. During his stay in New York, Trudeau will hold discussions to find ways in which the international community can concretely support Haitian-led solutions to the ongoing crisis and help foster sustainable development. Fake Dominican soldier, real prison sentence for a Haitian The Permanent Court of the province of San Juan de la Maguana imposed three months in prison on Haitian citizen Alito Heschina, for wearing the Dominican military uniform and posing as a member of the armed forces https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-40457-icihaiti-dr-arrest-of-a-haitian-who-posed-as-a-dominican-soldier.html and illegally and without problem crossed 8 checkpoints military control. He will serve his sentence in the public prison that operates in the General Jose Maria Cabral Fortress, headquarters of the Third Brigade of the Armed Forces. North : Security of property and lives Divisional Commissioner Fred Joseph, Departmental Director of the Northern Police, met last week with the Mayors of the 19 municipalities in the department. The security situation and strategies to be put in place to protect the lives and property of the people of the Northern region were the main points of the Agenda. The EDE Party withdraws from the negotiations Sunday September 17, 2023, responding to the call of Claude Joseph leader of the "Commitments for Development" (EDE) Party, Haitians marched peacefully in the streets of Port-au-Prince to show solidarity with the population of Carrefour-Feuilles trapped by insecurity and also Haitians in the Dominican Republic. In the process, Claude Joseph announced that his Party was withdrawing from the negotiating table to side with the people in the mobilization. Comments by Ramfis Trujilo Dominican presidential candidate Ramfis Trujilo declares that the Dominican Republic must not allow the reproduction of a massacre like that of 1937 ordered by his grandfather Ramfis and describes the deployment of the military at the border as media. HL/ HaitiLibre Published on 2015/12/03 | Source Korean movies opening today 2015/12/03 in Korea: "Love Guide for Dumpees", "Cruel State", "Time Confinement" and "My Friend's Wife" Advertisement "Love Guide for Dumpees" (2015) Directed by Ha Ki-ho With Yoon Kye-sang, Han Ye-ri, Park Byung-eun, Park Hyo-joo, Jo Bok-rae, Jung Soo-young,... Synopsis A romantic comedy about a man and a woman who make a 'one-night' coupon book after they get dumped or lose their chance at a real relationship. "Cruel State" (2015) Directed by Kim Jin-yeul Synopsis In April 2014, the live feed of the Sewol Ferry that sunk in the seas of Jindo resulted in 304 casualties and hurt the families of the deceased who didn't even having the time to mourn over the death of their children because they spent nights on the street in front of the Parliament, Gwanghwa-mun and the Blue House. They only have one question: "Why did my child die?" However, a year later today, there is still no answer. The people face the true color of the state and spend an agonizing one year in dispute. "Time Confinement" (2015) Directed by Kim Dae-seong-I With Jeon Cho-bin, Heo Dong-won, Ji Jeong-woo, Bo Ri,... Synopsis Your body will remember me! A man and a woman's fatal love that starts with confinement. A street hooker named Hyeon-ah (Jeon Yoo-jin) is locked up topless in the pension of a man named Jeong-ho (Heo Dong-won) who saved her from her pimp's abuse and beatings. She was locked up for no reason and every time she struggles against him, he hits her. A couple visiting the pension find Hyeon-ah and the man who wanted to rape her is killed by Jeong-ho. Hyeon-ah tries to run away from him but realizes she has nowhere to go. Jeong-ho confines and obsesses over Hyeon-ah because he loves her. Hyeon-ah starts to open up to him and when she sees him with another woman she feels jealous and what they believed was true love turns out to be a bloody war... "My Friend's Wife" (2015) Directed by Tak Seung-oh With Jung Tae-min, Hee Jeong, Je Dong-hwa, Lim Song-yi, Seo Hyeon, Oh Ji-hoon,... Synopsis I want to spend all night with my friend's wife who is extremely sexy. Jeong-woo is a husband who can't get an erection while his marriage is going down the drain. A friend and his wife from the States suggest a couples trip and Jeong-woo meets his friend's wife Hye-sook who is extremely sexy. His 'package' keeps getting stimlated every time he sees her. He tries to ignore it but every time he sees her, he gets sexual fantasies. Finally, he suggests to his friend, to 'switch' partners... Login or sign up to follow actresses, movies & dramas and get specific updates and news Login Sign Up New Ad-free Subscriber Login Email Password Password Username Subscribe to our daily NewsLetter Your E-mail will only be used to retrieve a lost password or receive our NewsLetter. Stay logged in Lost password Contact Korean Movie | 2010 Thriller Directed by Na Hong-jin () Written by 156min | Release date in South Korea: 2010/12/22 Links Also known as "The Murderer" Synopsis Na Hong-jin, director of the 2008 award-winning film The Chaser, is back with another action thriller that crosses borderlines. He brings with him The Chaser stars Ha Jeong-woo and Kim Yoon-seok, who are once again in the lead. Gu-nam (Ha), a taxi driver in the Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture in Jilin Province, in Northeastern China, is living with a mounting debt. His wife left for South Korea six months ago and he hasnt heard from her since. He starts gambling to make money but always ends up losing. One day, Gu-nam is offered a job that will pay off all his debts. The job is to assassinate someone in South Korea. He takes the job without knowing much about his target and to see his wife. But when he arrives in Seoul, he ends up being chased by the police because he is wanted for a murder that he did not commit. Gu-nam is starting to realize that he has been tricked into a dangerous trap. But the police arent the only ones looking for Gu-nam. Myun-ga (Kim), a professional assassin who also lives in Yanbian, is sent to Seoul to look him as well. Gu-nam has two choices: solve the mystery of who hired him and why Myun-ga is after him by himself or end up in jail for the rest of his life. Source We're a family of seven living in Georgia where Andrew's working as a professor at GSU. You can read more about us here Once Finland's crown jewel, the partly state-owned Finnair has seen a steady decline in its stature. "The world is like an apple," begins a nostalgic Finnair advertisement from the 1960s. "We live here," illustrates a hand, sketching a modest circle on the apple. "While we've been exploring nearby destinations, this spring heralds a leap farther. With our two majestic DC-8-62 jets, we promise America. Daily flights via Amsterdam and Copenhagen lead you to New York and back." The scene shifts, capturing a pilot savouring a bite from the apple. An apple, branded with the Finnair logo and bearing a bite mark, rests on the table. "The world is drawing closer," the voiceover proclaims. Those were golden times when Finns ventured beyond their saunas, eager to uncover the world. Finnair played the role of the bridge, connecting them to distant horizons. Yet, like any story, Finnair's journey encountered highs and lows. Periods of prosperity interspersed with staggering financial losses. The carousel of CEOs revolved. In a dramatic pivot, the airline, in a bid for self-preservation, seemingly distanced itself from its Finnish roots. No more taking Finns to the world or bringing the world to Finland. Investing heavily in the "Via Helsinki" strategy, Finnair acquired a fleet of Airbus A350 XWBs, presenting itself as the optimal conduit for the influx of tourists from China, Korea, Japan, and other parts of the Far East, heading to Europe's iconic cities. Interestingly, not to Helsinki itself but "via Helsinki." The Helsinki-Vantaa airport transformed into a bustling transit hub. The majority of passengers merely changed flights, continuing on to Paris, Rome, London or Vienna. Then, Covid reared its head, halting flights for nearly two years. The only exception being empty flights, preserving prized airport slots globally. As air travel hinted at a resurgence, geopolitical tensions involving EU's stance on Russia threw a wrench in Finnair's operations. Finnairs northern route relied heavily on using Russian airspace. Most Asian routs suddenly became 40% longer. Flights to Osaka, Nagoya, Tokyo Haneda, Sapporo, and Fukuoka were suspended. A350s were leased to Eurowings. Again, Finnair's momentum was curtailed. Have the airlines ups and downs been a string of unfortunate events or is mismanagement at play? Finnair lost an staggering billion euros in 2020 -2021. Decpite that, in 2020, CEO Topi Manner received nearly 400,000 euros in bonuses. Meanwhile, the state (read tax payers) capitalised Finnair with almost 300 million euros and guaranteed loans of 600 million euros. Despite this financial support, the company balanced its finances with significant layoffs and terminated 1,000 employees, effectively transferring them to receive unemployment benefits, i.e. taxpayers payrolls. Following the co-determination negotiations, Finnair's total annual earnings for its staff also decreased by 40 percent. Manner recently resigned from Finnair. He is still in charge of the company until the end of this year, after which he will go to lead Elisa. Indeed, as the world shrinks, the aviation industry's competitiveness intensifies. The key to thriving hinges on offering unmatched quality or unbeatable prices. Finnair, regrettably, couldn't champion either. The result? A precarious position no airline wishes to occupy: subpar and overpriced. To counteract this, a succession of questionable decisions emanated from the corporate echelons. The introduction of the "economy superlight" ticket is merely the latest stratagem from a company seemingly losing its pulse on both market realities and customer sentiment. One can almost picture the discussions: "Charge the passengers for every conceivable service!" Every aspect of the journey was monetised, from seats to meals, and even cabin luggage. The irony isn't lost on many: the very taxpayers who've repeatedly rescued Finnair from the brink have felt the brunt of these measures. Unchangeable, nonrefundable, no cabin luggage, pay extra for seat selection, pay extra for snack or food; the ticket is meant for cargo, not a passenger. Finland has never been synonymous with sterling customer service. Combine that reputation with Finnair's increasingly apparent apathy towards its passengers, and the result is far from commendable. This glaring discrepancy offers rivals an amusing spectacle. A tongue-in-cheek slogan for Finnair might read: "Finnair: Just settle the bill and hold your peace, says your cashier in the sky. Feedback on Finnair's modus operandi and passenger treatment has surged. The Helsinki Times is inundated with letters from exasperated patrons every week. From lost luggage, bad treatment and cancelled flights to the poor quality food or subpar service, complains are plenty and frequent. Recounting a travel debacle, one passenger says, "Our flight from Kuopio to Helsinki was abruptly cancelled. Finnair's solution? A bus ride to Helsinki." Their request for compensation was met with a nonchalant, "You arrived at your destination, didn't you?" The five-hour journey was punctuated with a frugal offering that masqueraded as a sandwich. An aggrieved mother recounts her ordeal of attempting to reschedule her daughter's flight. The mother's frustration is palpable. A refrain emerges: Finnair's unwavering focus on revenue, often at the expense of passenger satisfaction. "My daughter was set to join me on a work trip to Rome, purchasing her ticket with a credit from a previously cancelled Finnair flight. When my conference dates changed, I altered my booking. Despite contacting Finnair three times to explain my daughter's neurodivergent status and anxiety, which meant she couldn't travel alone, their indifferent (sometimes outright rude) customer service turned us down each time. They pointed to her "light" ticket's no-change policy, even though seats were available on the earlier flight. She adds, "Finnair's maddening policy meant we couldn't even buy a one-way ticket without cancelling the return leg of her initial booking. It was either travel separately or forfeit the original fare AND purchase a new roundtrip ticket for a whopping 700 euros." The difference between a light and classic flexible ticket would have been about 40 euros. The mothers frustration is palpable. "We were curtly told to consider these issues when purchasing a 'light' ticket. Their representative even admitted they receive hundreds of such calls weeklyeach of which they charge 1.7. If an airline fields hundreds of complaints on one issue, isn't that a glaring sign something's amiss?" "When I boarded the plane, there were empty seats all around me. My baby girl was alone at home and had to travel the next day. I was heartbroken. All that was just because Finnair wanted to punish us for buying a light ticket." Finnair's recent advertising campaigns seem a far cry from its adventurous past. "Illaksi kotiin," or "Ensuring you're home by nightfall," they declare. This inward-looking message suggests caution rather than exploration. While they promise a return to familiarity, it's with a caveat: subject to flight availability and barring any corporate turbulence. Perhaps the prudent choice is to stay grounded or entrust another carrier with your journey. Alexis Kouros Editor in Chief Helsinki Times *Updated 22 sept. Manner's resignation added.* ACTOR and comedian Russell Brand, who lives near Henley, has been accused of rape and sexual assault by more than four women. The claims about incidents alleged to have taken place between 2006 and 2013 were made in a joint investigation by the Sunday Times, the Times and Channel 4s Dispatches. Brand, 48, who is married with two children, has denied the allegations. In a video released on his YouTube channel, he said his relationships had been always consensual. He said he believed he was the subject of a co-ordinated attack, adding: Amidst this litany of astonishing, rather baroque, attacks are some very serious allegations that I absolutely refute. These allegations pertain to the time when I was working in the mainstream, when I was in the newspapers all the time, when I was in the movies and, as I've written about extensively in my books, I was very, very promiscuous. Now during that time of promiscuity the relationships I had were absolutely, always, consensual. Investigations have been launched by the BBC and Channel 4 as well as production company Banijay UK, which says it is looking into allegations of misconduct against Brand, who presented programmes produced by a company in 2004 and 2005. Reports over the weekend alleged Brand was responsible for two sexual assaults while living in California, one of which resulted in a woman being admitted to a rape treatment centre. Los Angeles Police told the BBC that it had not been made aware of any complaints. Officials reportedly contacted the police but the woman decided not to press charges. Meanwhile, Brands pub in Pishill is said to have been sealed by security fencing. A hessian covering has been put up across the front of the Crown Inn, which the comedian bought in 2021 but which has been closed ever since. In 2022, Brand applied for planning permission to change the use of the 15th century pubs garage into a recording studio. Press Release September 18, 2023 SP Zubiri: Wanton destruction in WPS threatens global food security 18 September 2023 Senate President Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri on Monday expressed outrage over the destruction of the marine ecosystem in the West Philippine Sea, saying the continued intrusion of Chinese vessels into the Philippines' exclusive economic zone threatens global food security. Zubiri was referring to the reported damage to coral reefs in Escoda (Sabina) Shoal, where dozens of Chinese maritime militia vessels have been seen roaming illegally. "This is a wanton destruction of our future food security areas. I am really angry with what they are doing. We are appealing to the Chinese embassy here in the Philippines to tell their militia vessels to put a stop on this wanton destruction," Zubiri said. "This is not a destruction only on the Philippine side, but for the whole world. It's for the whole world because the species of fish that breed there are not only being harvested by Filipino fishermen, but also harvested by Malaysian fishermen, Vietnamese fishermen, even Chinese fishermen," he pointed out. "So it is for the good of the world if our coral reefs are protected. That's why I'm really very mad," he added. To safeguard the country's marine resources in the West Philippine Sea, Zubiri said the Senate is working closely with the Department of the Environment and Natural Resources in setting up marine ranger stations in key coastal areas nationwide. The Senate leader said he has already spoken with Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara, who chairs the Senate committee on finance, to earmark P600 million for the initiative. He also vowed to fight for bigger allotments for the Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine Navy in the national budget for 2024 to help them in purchasing additional partial boats and other equipment. "This budget is a critical budget. This is the time that we have to put our money where our mouth is. This is the time that we need to increase the budget for ships, patrol crafts and marine research centers," Zubiri said. Under the proposed P5.768-trillion National Expenditure Plan for 2024, the PCG has been allocated with P24.014 billion, an increase of nearly 10 percent from its allotment of P21.92 billion this year. On the other hand, P40.97 billion has been set aside for the Navy, up from its current budget of P34.98 billion. The Senate President also suspected that the destruction of the shoal's seabed could be in preparation for reclamation activities in the area. "It's possible. That has been their guidebook and playbook since the beginning where they want to destroy an area first and then they reclaim it. That's why we have to remain vigilant," he said. Aries: You're feeling particularly chatty and intellectually stimulated this week. This is an excellent time to connect with your partner on a deeper level by discussing your thoughts. If you're single, don't be surprised if you find yourself drawn to someone who engages your mind. Involve in conversations and let your natural appeal shine through. Your ability to make witty and intelligent remarks can be quite attractive to the other person. Also Read: Aries Horoscope Today, Sept 18, 2023 Weekly Love and Relationship Horoscope 2023: Find out love predictions for 18-24 Sept.(Unsplash) Also Read Horoscope Today Taurus: You may feel a bit restless in your love life. You could be tempted to explore new experiences and meet new people. This week is an excellent time to engage in light-hearted conversations and flirtations. Use this time to let your real persona shine, and don't be surprised if you receive unexpected attention from someone you've had your eye on. Just be mindful not to make impulsive decisions in love. Also Read: Taurus Horoscope Today, Sept 18, 2023 Also Read: Weekly Career Horoscope for 18-24 Sept Gemini: This week, you will feel good about yourself as you radiate an attractive energy that draws potential partners toward you. Take some time to pamper yourself, whether it's through self-care routines, a new outfit, or simply practising self-affirmations. Your confidence will shine through and make you even more appealing to others. If you've encountered any relationship challenges recently, assess your feelings and find inner peace. Also Read: Gemini Horoscope Today, Sept 18, 2023 Cancer: Explore your deepest emotions and desires. This is a great time to understand your relationship patterns and what truly matters to you in matters of the heart. You may have vivid dreams or intuitive insights that lighten your romantic life. Use this time to connect with your inner self and set intentions for the love you desire. Conversations may be more intimate as you share your deepest desires and fears. Also Read: Cancer Horoscope Today, Sept 18, 2023 Leo: You're likely to find yourself in the company of your closest friends and perhaps even your extended social circle. This week is perfect for nurturing your existing friendships, and who knows, love might blossom from a platonic connection. Keep your heart open, and be ready for unexpected encounters leading to romance. Balance your time between fostering your friendships and tending to the emotional aspects of your romantic life. Also Read: Leo Horoscope Today, Sept 18, 2023 Virgo: While dedication to your professional life is commendable, don't forget to strike a balance. Your love life might take a temporary backseat, but your determination can be incredibly attractive to your partner or potential love interest. They'll admire your work ethic and support your efforts. If you're single, keep your eyes open; you might meet someone through your work connections or at a professional event. Also Read: Virgo Horoscope Today, Sept 18, 2023 Libra: Your love life may take a more serious turn this week. You could find yourself reflecting on the long-term potential of your current relationship. If you're single, a chance encounter with someone from a different culture or background could spark a deep connection. Couples should consider planning a romantic getaway to strengthen their bond. Share your feelings and future goals as a couple. Also Read: Libra Horoscope Today, Sept 18, 2023 Scorpio: This is the time to confront issues related to trust and vulnerability. It's essential to let go of any past wounds inhibiting your ability to open up to your partner or a potential lover. Healing old wounds can lead to a more profound connection. Consider seeking the support of a therapist or counsellor if you're struggling to release emotional baggage. You'll find that emotional intimacy can lead to increased passion and trust. Also Read: Scorpio Horoscope Today, Sept 18, 2023 Sagittarius: This week will bring some introspective energy to your love life. You might find yourself reflecting on the balance between your desires and the needs of your relationship. This self-awareness can be beneficial as it helps you better understand your own emotions and those of your partner. Remember that healthy relationships require compromise, so use this time to evaluate your contributions to your love life. Also Read: Sagittarius Horoscope Today, Sept 18, 2023 Capricorn: Evaluate your relationship's health and address any issues that may have been lingering. Consider doing something thoughtful for your partner, like helping with chores or planning a relaxing evening together. These acts of service can deepen your bond. If you're single, use this time to analyse your past relationships and pinpoint patterns that might need adjustment. Remember that strong foundations are essential for lasting love. Also Read: Capricorn Horoscope Today, Sept 18, 2023 Aquarius: This week brings a delightful mix of romance and playfulness into your love life. You're in the mood for fun and adventure. Plan a spontaneous getaway or a fun-filled time with your partner, full of laughter and shared experiences. If you're single, don't be surprised to encounter someone who captures your heart through their sense of humour and lightheartedness. Embrace the childlike wonder within you and let love bloom in unforeseen ways. Also Read: Aquarius Horoscope Today, Sept 18, 2023 Pisces: This week will create a desire for emotional security and stability in your love life. You'll find solace in the familiarity of your close relationships. You may find yourself feeling especially sensitive and in tune with your emotions. If you're in a committed partnership, spend quality time at home, maybe even plan a cosy date. If you're single, consider inviting someone special into your personal space, allowing them to see the real you. Also Read: Pisces Horoscope Today, Sept 18, 2023 ---------------------- Neeraj Dhankher (Vedic Astrologer, Founder - Astro Zindagi) Email: info@astrozindagi.in, neeraj@astrozindagi.in Url: www.astrozindagi.in Contact: Noida: +919910094779 Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! Looking to boost your business with Google Reviews? This guide is your one-stop shop for everything you need to know about how to buy reviews on Google. Whether you're interested in buying 5-star Google reviews, looking for cheap options, or considering a bulk purchase, we've got all the details. Let's jump right in! 9+ Best Places to Buy Real Google 5 Star Reviews For Any Business 1. 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In case of any dispute or clarification, please feel free to write to the content owner at support@reactivatereviews.com 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. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! Why is mental screening important for kids and how SKIDS is solving this problem? Mental health though an integral part of a childs well being is often neglected in regular check-ups. SKIDS is solving this problem by emphasizing on mental health and preventive screening. While academics is crucial, it is equally important to prioritize the physical and mental well-being of our young learners. CBSE in collaboration with UNESCO has rolled out a plea to empower the teachers in schools as health and wellness promoters, who will conduct the promotion activities in schools to improve the health and well-being of school-going children at various levels. SKIDS through its collaboration with schools is taking care of childrens mental health in the most modern and scientific way. How SKIDS is addressing pediatric care by deploying world-class medical-grade non-invasive and kid-friendly technology for holistic preventive and specialist care for kids. SKIDS believes technology along with doctors can vastly improve care outcomes. However, a lot of technology that is currently used by caregivers is either consumer-grade, inaccurate or not kids-friendly. SKIDS with its latest technology offers holistic preventive care which is completely non-invasive and accurate. According to a study done in 20152016, 58.5% percent of children between the age of 6 months to 5 years were anemic. Keeping this in mind regular blood tests are done on children, which so far has been invasive with the use of needles. With SKIDS, this is going to change forever as it uses highly accurate non-invasive anemia tests using FDA approved solution that is accurate, fast, and as easy as doing pulse oximetry. How is SKIDS screening Behavioral Health and Learning Disabilities among children? SKIDS is the first-of-its kind technological platform that believes in preventive healthcare and does regular screening based on multiple parameters including mental health, psychological health and overall well-being of the children. SKIDS also provides comprehensive behavioral assessment including autism screening, developmental delays, and social health. This helps in early detection of concerns if any, and can also follow it up with the right treatment early on. With your recent collaborations with Schools across different parts of the country, how do you plan to make parents more aware of various health problems among children? Children spend close to seven hours in school everyday, five days a week. This leaves us enough time to monitor them on their overall well-being. SKIDS through the teachers run sensitizing programmes on the need of preventive screening for children. This AI-powered platform offers comprehensive healthcare for kids through a holistic assessment of their physical, behavioral, and social health. Unlike existing growth charts which monitor only a few physical parameters, SKIDS advanced health chart monitors 70+ parameters including behavioral and social-health assessment. Parents are kept in loop and in case of any issues, it can be highlighted at the right time. Briefly explain your partnership with Arcade Therapeutics and how you are planning to revolutionize mental healthcare in India We have partnered with Arcade Therapeutics with a well-planned goal of revolutionizing mental healthcare for adolescents in India. We are bringing the concept of digital therapeutics to the country for the very first time. Through our partnership with Arcade Therapeutics, SKIDS plans to develop a digital-first therapy protocol to improve and accelerate the efficacy of therapy for school-going children suffering from social anxiety. 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. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! The finance ministry on Monday unveiled a series of welfare measures for the benefit of agents and employees of the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC). According to a statement by the ministry, the measures are related to the amendments to LIC (Agents) Regulations, 2017, enhancement of the gratuity limit, and uniform rate of family pension among others. LIC building (Photo: Mint) More than 13 lakh agents and more than 1 lakh regular employees, who play a pivotal role in the growth of LIC and deepening of insurance penetration in India, will benefit from these welfare measures, the ministry said in the statement. List of LIC measures approved by finance ministry: Enhanced gratuity: According to an official release, there will be an enhancement of the gratuity limit to 5 lakh from the current 3 lakh for the LIC agents. This will bring substantial improvements to the working conditions and benefits of LIC agents, the ministry said. Eligibility for renewal commission: In order to provide the LIC employees and agents with increased financial stability, the finance ministry has enabled all reappointed agents to be eligible for renewal commission. Currently, LIC agents are not eligible for renewal commission on any business completed under the old agency. Expanding term insurance cover: The ministry has expanded the term insurance cover for the LIC agents and employees from the existing range of 3,000-10,000 to 25,000-1,50,000. According to the ministry, this enhancement in term insurance will significantly benefit the families of deceased agents, offering them a more substantial welfare benefit. Family pension at a uniform rate: The government has introduced the family pension at a uniform rate of 30 percent for the welfare of the families of the LIC employees. Also read: LIC staffer dies after falling from 2nd floor of office building LIC presents dividend cheque to Nirmala Sitharaman On Thursday, the LIC presented a dividend cheque of 1,831.09 crore to finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman. In a picture posted by the finance minister's office on X, formerly known as Twitter, LIC chairman Siddhartha Mohanty can be seen presenting the dividend cheque as the government's share of dividend in the presence of department of financial services additional secretary MP Tangirala. Notably, the dividend was approved by the shareholders in the annual general meeting held on August 22. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! Saudi Arabia is in early talks with U.S. electric automaker Tesla to set up a manufacturing facility in the kingdom, the Wall Street Journal reported on Monday, citing sources familiar with the matter. Elon Musk, chief executive officer of Tesla.(Bloomberg) However, Tesla chief executive Elon Musk termed the report false in a social media post on X. The report comes just hours after Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan asked Tesla CEO Elon Musk to build a vehicle factory in Turkey, according to the country's communications directorate. READ: Make Tesla factory in Turkey, country's president asks Elon Musk. Latter says Musk is also set to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in California on Monday. Saudi Arabia has been wooing Tesla with the right to purchase certain quantities of metals and minerals the company needs for its electric vehicles from countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, the report said. The kingdom has been trying to shift its economy away from oil, while its sovereign wealth fund is the majority investor in Lucid Group, one of the EV startups looking to challenge Tesla's dominance of the industry. One of the proposals the kingdom is considering involves extending financing to commodities-trading giant Trafigura for a flailing Congo cobalt and copper project, which could help provide a potential Tesla factory with supplies, the WSJ report said. Tesla and Trafigura did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment, while Saudi Arabia's sovereign fund, the Public Investment Fund, declined to comment. Musk said in May that Tesla would probably pick a location for a new factory by the end of this year. It currently has six factories and is building a seventh in Mexico in northern Nuevo Leon state, part of the automaker's push to expand its global footprint. It has a goal to sell 20 million vehicles a year by 2030, up from around 1.3 million in 2022. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! Electric vehicles are a focal point for SUV maker Jeep in India and it is evaluating different options before finalising its plans for the domestic market, a top company executive has said. Jeep India said that the company is aiming for over 90 per cent localisation in its compact SUV Jeep Compass over the next three years Jeep India, which is a part of automobile group Stellantis, also said that the company is aiming for over 90 per cent localisation in its compact SUV Jeep Compass over the next three years. The company has a 50:50 joint venture manufacturing facility with Tata Motors at Ranjangaon in Pune district. ALSO READ: Jeep Compass SUV's facelift version launched. Check price, specifications "Options for electrification (of vehicles) is something we are studying right now because the customer is at the centre and his (customer's) needs have to be satisfied. Globally, we have a vast expansion of the EV portfolio. So, we are evaluating different options for India," Aditya Jairaj, Head of Jeep India Operations and Deputy Managing Director at Stellantis India told PTI on the sidelines of the roll out of the new Jeep Compass nine-speed AT Diesel in a 4x2 configuration on Saturday. The vehicle has been exclusively developed and launched in India. Emphasising that electrification with Jeep in India is a focal point, which will eventually happen, he said at this point the company is still finalising the EV strategy. For the next generation products, the company is looking at 40 per cent higher localisation from the current level of 70 per cent, which will be quite significant, adding that it is an important focus for the company. "It is not just localising for India, but it is India for India and India for the world," he said. Further, he said that exports will be one of the important components of the company's long-term strategy as it not only gives the scale but also provides a competitive advantage as well in terms of cost. Jeep India currently has four products in its portfolio -- Compass, Meridian, Wrangler and Grand Cherokee. Of these four, it exports Jeep Compass and Jeep Meridian to markets such as Japan and Australia, among others. He said that currently these vehicles are being exported to developed markets like Japan, Australia and New Zealand. "So exports have to work in tandem with the domestic market in order to be more and more value proposition," he said and added that the company will continue exporting Compass and the Meridian in other markets. These vehicles will also be exported to non-right-hand drive markets as well and that opens a lot of opportunities for the company, he added. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Ganesh Chaturthi has begun across the city and Bengaluru police are closely monitoring the celebrations to avoid any untoward incidents. The streets and apartments are decked up with Ganesh idols. Bengaluru News Live Updates: Viral infection kills 7 leopard cubs in zoo. The BBMP has already imposed a strict ban on the sale and manufacture of Ganesh idols that are made with Plaster of Paris (POP). A hefty penalty will be imposed on the makers if they flout the rules. Row over the pitch of three deputy CMs in Karnataka continues as various leaders give their two cents about Siddaramaiah led Congress government in the state. Karnataka health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said that the future of Siddaramaiah will be decided by the Congress high command and also said that he has been doing good as a chief minister. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also said that high command would decide on it ultimately, and that he would comply with the decision. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Of the 49 terrorists neutralised by security forces as part of their anti-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir this year, 40 were foreign nationals, officials said on Monday. The DGP revelaed hat 40 of 49 terrorist killed Jammu and Kashmir this year were foreigners. (HT FIle) Director general of police Dilbag Singh said the Jammu and Kashmir security team including local police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), army, intelligence agencies and civil administration are working together on a unique model to make the union territory terror free. This year, the Jammu Security team has been able to neutralise around 40 foreign terrorists and nine local terrorists. The local involvement in terrorist activities has drastically come down, he said, while speaking during the third Northern Regional Police Coordination Committee, a police spokesperson noted in a statement. READ | Watch: Drones used by security forces to locate hideouts of terrorists in Kashmir's Anantnag The same comes in the backdrop of Northern Army commander Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi last week saying that Pakistan was trying hard to push foreign terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir to disrupt peace and stall progress in the region. Singh said there was a time when stones were pelted at security forces every week, but has changed. The Jammu and Kashmir security team, he noted, has been able to ensure zero violation of human rights: There has not been a single civilian casualty in any law-and-order engagement over the last few years. We are moving inch by inch towards the policy of zero terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, the DGP said, adding that militancy in the region was at its lowest level. READ | Three overground terror operatives detained in Jammu and Kashmirs Kishtwar Singh said optimum synergy among the forces has helped push militants out of villages and cities to mountains, adding, The peoples cooperation to the forces has been of immense help for which we thank the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The DGP said enforcement of rule of law was a single guideline for the security team and that action has been taken against the people involved in any anti-national activities as well as against instigators. Police leadership also discussed a wide range of topics concerning terrorism, drug menace, cybercrime, drone usage for dropping drugs and contrabands from across the border during the meeting that was chaired by Singh and attended by senior officers representing police departments of northern states, union territories and CAPF officers. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! With the aim to make Chandigarh Indias first carbon-free city by 2030, the UT administration has already kicked off several projects, including promoting clean fuel vehicles, UT adviser Dharam Pal said on Monday during the valedictory ceremony of the ninth Ins and Outs show. Chandigarh adviser Dharam Pal at the Ins and Outs show in Chandigarh on Monday. (HT Photo) The show was organised by PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Architects, Fire and Security Association of India and Indian Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ISHRAE) with the support of the Confederation of Real Estate Developers Associations of India (CREDAI). Addressing the audience, the adviser said the UT administration was promoting solar energy. Electric vehicles (EVs) are being promoted here. Many government institutions in Chandigarh have already adopted solar energy. We urge building companies to manufacture eco-friendly and reusable materials. Chandigarh has presented policies that encourage the use of green construction materials and energy-efficient technologies in construction projects. One of our notable initiatives is to promote smart cities and smart homes, which align perfectly with the theme of this expo, he added. PHDCCI Chandigarh chapter chairman Madhusudan Vij said the ninth edition of the show was expanded this time. PHDCCI deputy secretary-general Naveen Seth said considering the encouragement of city residents, the show will be organised from September 7 to 10 next year. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! Burglars have found ways to easily break into locked houses in Chandigarh. Before fleeing, the burglars also took away four womens suits, four shawls and two jackets. (Getty Images/iStockphoto) In the latest home break-in in the city, gold and diamond jewellery, besides 75,000 in cash, were stolen from a locked house in Sector 8-B. The targeted house belongs to Jatinder Jotta Kiwi, who works as the general manager at Hot Millions in Industrial Area, Phase 3, Mohali, and has been living in Sector 8-B with his family for the past 22 years. Jotta told the police that the theft took place while he and his family were away at their native village, Langeri in Hoshiarpur, Punjab. They had left on Saturday and returned on Sunday. On returning home, they were shocked to find the lock of the main door broken and the entire house ransacked. He claimed that the burglars made off with diamond and gold jewellery, including five chains, eight bangles, two necklace sets, a diamond ring, a pair of diamond earrings, three rings and a chain with pendant, along with 75,000 in cash. Before fleeing, the burglars also took away four womens suits, four shawls and two jackets. The family alerted the Police Control Room, following which the police from the Sector 3 station, along with a forensic team and dog squad, reached the spot to gather crucial evidence, including fingerprints. The absconding accused have been booked under Sections 380 (burglary) and 454 (house-trespass) of the Indian Penal Code at the Sector 3 police station. As per police, no CCTV camera is installed at the complainants house. They are looking for footage from adjacent houses for more clues. On August 29, gold jewellery and 20,000 in cash were stolen from a locked house in Sector 41-B, while the home owner was away at work. Similar home break-ins were also reported from Sectors 20 and 51 between August 21 and 24. Thieves had also broken into the locked house of a retired IAS officer in Sector 11-C on August 18, but left empty handed after finding no valuables. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The 31-year-old taxi driver, whose body was found in a canal in Rajpura on Saturday, was stabbed to death by a man and his wife for pursuing her despite her rejection, police said on Monday. Satvir Singh, the victim. (HT) After murdering the victim, Satvir Singh, hailing from Kandala village, Kharar, the accused, also hailing from the same village, drove to Rajpura in his Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, tied up his body in the back seat of the car and pushed the vehicle into the Bhakra canal. With the help of the victims phone call details, police managed to trace and arrest the accused, Major Singh, his wife Kulwinder Kaur and their son Karanvir, within two days of the bodys discovery. Police are also on the trail of Majors friend Karan of Jagatpura area, the fourth accused. The victim, who plied taxi around Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport in Mohali, had been missing since September 13, with his mobile phone also switched off. When he didnt return home as per daily schedule, his father, Surinder Singh, tried to locate him himself for a few days, but in vain. The father then informed the police about Satvirs disappearance. During investigation, police received information that a white Maruti Suzuki Ertiga (PB-01-D-3332) was spotted in Bhakra canal near Khanpur village in Rajpura, Patiala. As the car belonged to Satvir, IT City SHO Sarabjit Singh Cheema reached the spot with Satvirs father. As divers fished out the car from the canal, Satvirs body was found tied in the back seat, with multiple stab wounds on his body, said DSP (City 2) Harsimran Singh Bal, while addressing a press conference in Mohali on Monday. During the course of investigation, police secured Satvirs phone call details, which led them to Major and his wife. They, along with their son, were arrested while they were planning to escape the city, he added. Major previously used to operate a bus at the airport. Wanted to elope with woman, but was rejected As per investigators, Kulwinder Kaur was in an extra-marital relationship with Satvir, who wanted her to elope with him. However, Kulwinder turned him down, snapped all ties with him and blocked his phone number. During interrogation, Kulwinders husband Major revealed that despite his wifes rejection, Satvir did not relent and sent him an objectionable video of her. This infuriated him and he decided to kill Satvir, they said. Majors 19-year-old son Karanvir and his friend Karan then hatched a conspiracy to eliminate Satvir. They invited him for drinks on September 13. After consuming liquor, Major, his son and Karan attacked Satvir with a sword and iron rods, killing him on the spot. They then put the body in the car, drove it to Rajpura and dumped it in the canal. Kulwinder was arrested for conspiring with the killers. DSP (City 2) Harsimran Singh Bal said the weapons used in the crime had been recovered. All accused have been booked under Section 302 (murder) and 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code. Notably, this is the third murder involving a taxi driver in Mohali in the past four months. On July 31, a taxi driver, Dharampal, 35, a resident of Zirakpur, was stabbed to death in Mullanpur by a robber who was planning to snatch his car by posing as a passenger. On May 3, through a similar modus operandi, two Class-4 employees of a private hospital in Mohali had stabbed a taxi driver to death after booking a ride and dumped his body in a manhole before making off with the vehicle. The victim, Dayanand Sharma, 21, hailed from Una in Himachal Pradesh and was living in Phase 7, Mohali. Mohali police had solved both the cases with the arrest of three men. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Two months after the Indian Air Force (IAF) authorities submitted their proposal for Phase 2 expansion of the countrys first IAF Heritage Centre in Sector 18, the UT administration has expressed its inability to maintain the upcoming wing. Chandigarh administration has informed IAF authorities that they do not have experts for the maintenance work and that it should be carried out by the IAF itself, said an officer. A response is awaited. (HT file photo) Christened Indian Air Force Aerospace and Technical Centre, Phase 2 will incorporate advanced technology-driven features and experiences, aimed at inspiring young individuals to join the air force. This, as per UT, will require technical expertise for maintenance, which they have asked IAF to arrange from their end. Through a letter, UT has informed IAF authorities that they do not have experts for the maintenance work and that it should be carried out by the IAF itself, said an officer. A response is awaited. In July, the air force had submitted the expansion plan to the UT administration, stating that maintenance work for the artifacts will be carried out by the UT administration. While submitting the proposal, IAF officers had stated that once the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is finalised, they would commence the work in a months time and complete the new phase in six months. Since its launch on May 8, the centre, set up at the Government Press building, has been receiving encouraging footfall. The first phase, occupying a 15,000 square feet hall, focuses on the history and legends of the air force. As part of Phase 1, GNAT aircraft were displayed at the light point outside the centre. The air force has already handed over Phase 1 to the UT tourism department, which is responsible for its maintenance. The new wing will be constructed in an adjacent hall, covering an area of approximately 13,000 square feet. It will feature an array of technology-based and electronic systems, simulators, and aero engines. The Phase 2 project has already received clearance from the IAF Headquarters. The heritage centre currently offers a total of eight attractions, including aircraft models and weapon displays. The highlight of the centre is its own flight simulator. Additionally, informative exhibits such as aero engines, aircraft, kiosks, air force artifacts, machines/fixtures, films showcasing achievements and personalities, as well as guides have been set up. A souvenir shop is also available at the museum. The centre also houses five vintage aircraft on display, along with cockpit exposure. Visitors can also enjoy the theme-based cafe. Furthermore, a one-foot wall featuring pictures of 58 vintage and retired aircraft has been installed. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Hillary Victor Hillary Victor is a Principal Correspondent at Chandigarh. He covers Chandigarh administration, municipal corporation and all political parties. ...view detail The operation in the dense forests of Garol, Kokernag, in south Kashmirs Anantnag district entered its sixth day, with the searches for terrorists responsible for killing of three officers and a soldier being intensified. Security personnel on their way to the encounter site in Garol, Kokernag, in Anantnag district. (Waseem Andrabi /HT) Throughout the day, the intermittent firing and occasional blasts continued as forces continued as forces targeted terrorists possible hiding spots in the forests. Tight cordon has been maintained around the forests of Garol from all the sides. Security forces are using drones and helicopters for surveillance of the dense forest area with several cave-like hideouts where terrorists are believed to be holed up since Wednesday A senior officer said that operation will continue till the terrorists responsible for the killing soldiers are tracked down. This is a very different operation and its taking the troops on ground time to avoid any further casualties, the officer said, adding that the exhausted soldiers are being replaced by the fresh parties. According to the available information, officers leading the operation are sure that terrorists responsible for the attack on the officers and the assault party on Wednesday are still hiding in the forest area. The security forces lost four personnel Colonel Manpreet Singh, the commanding officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Major Aashish Dhonchak, also from the same battalion, deputy superintendent of police Humayun Muzamil Bhat and a radio operator on Wednesday. Lieutenant governor (L-G) Manoj Sinha on Monday morning visited Bhats family members at their residence in Humhama, Budgam. Sinha expressed his condolences to the family members of the officer and assured them all assistance and support from the UT administration, adding, The entire nation stands in solidarity with the family of our braveheart. Addressing a function in Srinagar on Sunday, Sinha said every drop of the martyrs blood will be avenged and the terrorist handlers will have to pay a heavy price. We have complete faith in our soldiers... The entire nation stands in solidarity with the jawans, he said. He claimed that the attack on security forces in Anantnag was the result of frustration among terrorist ranks due to the successful conduct of the G20 Summit and the crackdown on conflict profiteers in Jammu and Kashmir. The L-G said the time had come to end terrorism and the ecosystem that has suppressed the common man in Jammu and Kashmir. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! Faced with his first major test in the rain-battered Himachal Pradesh since taking over as chief minister in December last, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, 59, recently fronted the onerous relief and rescue operations that has come to define his hands-on style of governance. With the central disaster aid of 600 crore proving meagre for rebuilding an extensively damaged infrastructure and rehabilitating 3,000 families, he is now pulling out all the stops to convince the Centre to declare the states losses a national disaster and also give a special relief package. In an interview with Executive Editor in Chandigarh on Monday, Sukhu dwelt on his challenges and priorities. Edited excerpts: PREMIUM Hands-on and Humane: Last week, Sukhu donated 51 lakh from his personal savings to state disaster relief fund, a symbolic gesture that earned him a measure of public appreciation across the state. (HT photo) What is your assessment of the cost and cause of recent disaster in Himachal Pradesh in the wake of excessive rains? The material loss is over 12,000 crore which is unprecedented in Himachal. It was result of excess rains, landslides and floods. Climate change and man-made factors accentuated the disaster. Certain areas such as Lahaul & Spiti, which used to get scant or no rains, received a downpour this time. The Kangra region got floods due to overflowing Pong Dam. For the first time, we saw the hills sinking which led to crash of even concrete houses. When landslide converts into mudslide, it causes more damage. That is what happened in Shimlas Summer Hill where 20 people were killed in a day. In all, 13,000 houses across the state were damaged. Of these, 3,000 houses were completely washed out. About 1,500 roads suffered damage to varying extent. Our drinking water and irrigation schemes in river beds suffered a loss of 2,500 crore. The Larji hydel power project got a hit of 1,000 crore. When the National High Authority of India (NHAI) constructed a road, the muck was dumped into the river which changed it course, flooding the power plant. I have not seen such scale of havoc in my life time. What is basis of your case to the Centre to declare it a national disaster? The first phase of disaster was between July 7 and 11 when Kullu bore the major brunt. Then, I had demanded a special relief package. I camped there for three days. Nearly 75,000 stranded tourists and 15,000 vehicles were evacuated. The most challenging was the rescue of 300 tourists at Chandertal Lake where helicopters could not land. Two of my ministers rode JCB machines to clear the road buried in six-ft snow. The worst happened on August 14 when heavy spell of rains led to 51 deaths in a single day- 30 of them in Shimla. Landslides blocked all major roads. Our challenge was to get the produce from the apple belt in upper Himachal to the mandis. A tour of the state made me realise the extent of destruction. Over 3,000 affected families had to be moved to relief camps as their houses are totally wrecked. They are still there. It is then that I demanded that it be declared a national disaster on the lines of the 2013 Kedarnath tragedy. We have also demanded a special relief package. I spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on these two demands. The Government of Indias disaster relief manual provides only 1.25 lakh for damage to one-km road. How can you repair the road in such small amount in a hill state? Hence, we want the relief manual be changed. Does Himachal meet the laid down parameters to be declared a national disaster? Of course, we do. Already we have submitted damage assessment reports of 10,000 crore as per their parameters. The central teams have visited the state twice. We hope PM will sympathetically consider Himachals case. Why has the Centre not done that so far? They may be calculating as per the norms. I hope they will do it soon. We have already declared it a state disaster and are moving the displaced families from relief camps to rented accommodations for six months. Those in rural areas will get a monthly rent of 5,000 and ones in urban zone up to 10,000. Till their rehabilitation, they will get free ration and cooking gas. How much funds the state has got so far from the state and national disaster relief kitty? Disaster management is provisioned in the Union Budget. A part of taxes goes to this fund. All the states get their installments twice a year in July and December. We got 360 crore for both installments as the Centre advanced the second. We also got 189 crore of the disaster relief share which was stuck for two years due to audit objections. So, what we got so far is our due share, disaster or no disaster. We have not got any special grant from the Centre so far. But the opposition BJP says that your government should first spend the disaster relief funds to justify the demand for more funds from the Centre? We have already spent what we got and informed the Centre. They (BJP leaders) dont know that. JP Nadda ji (BJP national president) had assured me of releasing 200 crore under NDRF. I will have to see where we get that from. I have granted 150 crore to PWD to repair roads in apple belt and 140 crore to repair water and irrigation projects. Having spent all the disaster relief money, we are now spending from our resources. If the Centre doesnt declare it a national disaster, how will you manage? Then, we will have to do it from our own resources. We will have to enhance the sources of our income and stand on our own feet. We may bring our own special package in coming days for those whose houses got damaged. How long will it take to rebuild the infrastructure and rehabilitate the affected families? All national and state highways are open now. Only 70 odd-rural roads are still blocked. The water supply projects have been restored. But it will take at least one year to rebuild the infrastructure. Tourism and excise revenue have suffered a major setback. That has led to a dip in our GST share. The disaster has severely impacted the states economy. But we are focused on boosting tourism infra, giving new push to industrial investments and fast-tracking work-in-progress hydel projects. What will you do about the states precarious financial health? We are passing through a phase of financial hardship. There is no denying that our fiscal position is not up to the mark. We inherited a debt burden of 75,000 crore from the previous BJP government. Add to that another 10,000 liability annually that the Centre has passed on to the state by implementing the 7th pay commission. Now we have to take loan to repay the outstanding loan. We have been borrowing quite a bit for last eight months. But how long can we continue like this? We have identified areas of resource generation. We are speeding up the ongoing hydro-electric projects. That will cut the cost and generate resources early. It will take us at least four years to bring economy back on track. What are the key lessons the government has learnt from the disaster? I accept that this was also a manmade tragedy. For lessons, we have looked at the causes. People built multi-storey buildings without caring for structural engineering and soil strata. Such haphazard construction was a recipe for disaster. In fact, the planned part of Shimla didnt suffer any damage. Construction in the nullahs and river beds blocked the gushing waters. A rampant hill cutting at 90 degrees for road widening destabilised the mountain strata, making them highly prone to landslides. We are now changing the construction rules. No building activity on a 45-degree slope will be allowed. Hill-cutting for private development has been banned. Rules on structural design and load bearing capacity of strata are being reframed and will be strictly enforced. Instead of hill blasting for roads, we need to shift to tunneling. That is an expensive proposition but will be more beneficial in long term as it shortens distances, costs less maintenance and saves environment. That is what I have suggested to NHAI. There was logic behind the British building 103 tunnels on the Kalka-Shimla rail route. Given the resource-crunch, how will your government fulfil its promises such as free power of 300 units for all households, 1,500 allowance for all women and five lakh jobs to the youth? The main promise of old pension has already been implemented. We are doing it from our own resources. We have enhanced the monthly pension of 2.37 lakh women beneficiaries from 1,100 to 1,500. On allowance to all women above 21 years, we will have do it in phases. The first phase will roll out in Lahaul & Spiti. As our economy gets better, we will do take up more phases. Free power is not a big deal for us because Himachal is a power-surplus state. Our guarantee on employment is for the jobs in both private and government sectors. We got the mandate to do this in five years. The apple growers are worried over reduction in import duty on American apple. What do you plan to do about it? The Centre has slashed the 35% import duty on apple to 15%. This will definitely impact our apple economy because our produce will become expensive and the American apple will sell cheaper. There is nothing that the state can do except asking the Union government to reverse the duty slash. Your government has staked a claim on its share in Union Territory of Chandigarh. What is the latest on that? When Chandigarh was designated as UT after the Punjab Reorganisation Act of 1966, Himachal was given a share of 7.16% on the UT, alongside Punjab and Haryana. We never got that. We have set up a panel under Chander Kumar to make a fresh case. I will raise the issue in the Northern Zonal Council meeting in Amritsar on September 26. What are your immediate goal and long-term dream for Himachal? Right now, we are fighting for the disaster-hit people. Their rehabilitation is on top of our priority list and we are doing our best. My goal is to make Himachal self-reliant in four years. The dream is to see it as the countrys most prosperous state in 10 years. Jammu and Kashmir lieutenant governor Manoj Sinha on Monday visited the residence of deputy superintendent of police Humayun Bhat, who was killed in an encounter with terrorists in Anantnag district last week, and assured the family members of all assistance. Jammu and Kashmir lieutenant governor Manoj Sinha with Ghulam Hassan Bhat, the father of Jammu and Kashmir DSP Humayun Bhat, in Budgam on Monday. (ANI Photo) Besides Bhat, Colonel Manpreet Singh, the commanding officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles and Major Ashish Dhonchak of the same battalion and a soldier made the supreme sacrifice in the encounter last Wednesday. The operation to flush out terrorists holed up in the Gadole forest area of Anantnag district entered its sixth day on Monday with security forces using drones to pinpoint the hideouts for carrying out attacks on the militants. Visited Humhama, Budgam, today to meet the family of braveheart martyr DySP Humayun Bhat and expressed my condolences. Assured the family of all assistance and support from the UT administration. The entire nation stands in solidarity with the bereaved family, Sinha posted on his official handle on X. The L-G spent some time with the bereaved family, including the officers father Ghulam Hassan Bhat, a retired IGP. Addressing a function in Srinagar on Sunday, Sinha said every drop of the martyrs blood will be avenged and the terrorist handlers will have to pay a heavy price. We have complete faith in our soldiers... The entire nation stands in solidarity with the jawans, he said. He claimed that the attack on security forces in Anantnag was the result of frustration among terrorist ranks due to the successful conduct of the G20 Summit and the crackdown on conflict profiteers in Jammu and Kashmir. The L-G said the time had come to end terrorism and the ecosystem that has suppressed the common man in Jammu and Kashmir. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! The visually impaired students of the Vocational Rehabilitation Training Centre (VRTC) on Monday raised the issue of lack of facilities at the centre, including unavailability of potable water. HT Image There are105 students studying in the centre, with 15 from different cities and 90 from Ludhiana district. The students raised their concerns in front of MLA Gurpreet Bassi Gogi, who visited the centre on Monday. The students demanded greater representation with two boys and two girls from the centre on the committee board for fair and transparent decision-making within the centre. Nirmal Singh, a class 12 student at the centre, said, A few days ago, we protested against the poor facilities at the centre, including contaminated water in the tanks, absence of a dispensary, lack of van transportation for students, inadequate security, and a poorly maintained playground, among other issues. We conducted a one-day hunger strike within the school premises, but no board member approached us to inquire about our concerns. Harish, another student, said, There is no one from Punjab on the centres committee board, and whenever we approach the management with complaints, they demand that we communicate in a different language rather than in Punjabi. We urge the administration and the police to take strict action against the school management for their lack of cooperation in providing adequate facilities. Talking about the problems, VRTC principal Sheela Ravindran said, We make every effort to assist our students in every possible way. However, when students engage in disruptive and unlawful activities, including altercations with other students, we are compelled to admonish them. We have reached agreements with the students regarding the unmet needs, and all necessary provisions will be made soon. The chairman of the center is currently unavailable, but a meeting will be held on October 7, 2023, to address the allegations. My duty is to maintain a learning environment and instill good study habits and values among the students. MLA Gogi said, Upon receiving complaints from the students at the center, I promptly arrived with the administration and city police to facilitate an open discussion. The students are raising valid concerns, and I have instructed the management to ensure that all necessary facilities are provided to the students, given their visual impairments. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! In a written reply to a question posed by Ghumarwin member of legislative assembly (MLA) Rajesh Dharmani, the state industry minister Harshwardhan Chauhan on Monday said silk cocoons were being sold in accordance with the department of industries long-standing cocoon marketing policy. He added that there was no proposal before the government to provide the minimum support price (MSP) for cocoons at this point. Himachal industry minister said there was no proposal before the government to provide MSP for cocoons at this point. (HT File) The minister, however, conceded that the government was keen to increase the cocoon production and sericulture practices in the state as it is an important cash crop with a minimal gestation period. Chauhan noted that rates are invited from cocoon buyers of Himachal and other states in sealed envelopes and based on the highest rate per kg offered for different grades of reeling cocoons, while district wise rates are worked out based on quality of cocoons. Thereafter, the local Cocoon Marketing Committee in each district decides the rates for each lot based on quality. Notably, however, the price of the cocoon is not stable and depends on the demand and supply. The minister further said the average rates per kg in the state ranged between 810 to 1,050 over the course of the last three years. Various new initiatives are being taken to increase cocoons production, productivity and for value addition in the state such as introduction of Cocoon Crop Insurance and Relief Fund, support to popularise multi-cropping in the state, focus on transfer of technology, strengthening of extension mechanism and framing a policy for Resham Sathi, he added. Chauhan added that the state government will also adopt e-auction/e-tender for cocoon marketing, introduce Oak Tasar and Eri Sericulture and frame a sericulture development policy. In reply to another question raised by Dharmani, education minister Rohit Thakur said that state Government Sanskrit College, Dangar, in Bilaspur district was de-notified through a notification issued on June 28. He added that there were no plans to reopen the college were being discussed at this point. Health and family welfare minister Dhani Ram Shandil, meanwhile, informed the assembly that the CentralLine Oxygen Supply is not available at Community Health Centre (CHC) Kaza and CHC, Udaipur, now upgraded to civil hospitals. He was replying to a query by Lahaul-Spiti MLA Ravi Thakur. The minister, however, said the supply was installed at Regional Hospital, Keylong and was in working condition. Shandil added that the solar passive wards were not available at any of the three hospitals Kaza, Udaipur and Keylong. The minister also informed that the Central Line Oxygen Supply was not feasible at the hospital in Udaipur due to non-availability of sufficient space, while the work to set up the same was underway at the facility in Keylong. The facility of solar passive wards for patients, he said, however, were not under consideration. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! Punjabi University, on Monday, removed Prof Surjit Singh from the post of coordinator of the Five-Year Integrated Programme (FYIP). The university had ordered a probe against him after receiving complaints against him for allegedly mentally harassing a girl of his department, who died at her residence on September 14. Police personnel stand guard at the main entrance of the Punjabi University during a protest staged by students in Patiala on Monday. (ANI) The decision is said to have come after protests by various students unions along with the family members of the deceased girl. The professor who is still in the ICU of a private hospital in Patiala after being thrashed by students last week will be placed under suspension on the day he joins his duty. Currently, he is on medical leave. A two-member committee, headed by an additional sessions judge (retired) Jaswinder Singh, to investigate the incident has already been formed. As per the demands of the protesting students, the district administration and university officials appointed a woman paediatrician (child specialist), Dr Harshinder Kaur of Government Rajindra Hospital, as a member of the committee. Meanwhile, district administration and university officials assured the protesting students that the committee would complete the probe within 21 days. Any girl student can express her concerns against the professor to the woman member of the probing committee, said Patiala SDM Dr Ismat Vijay Singh. On students demand of cancelling the FIR registered against the students for allegedly assaulting the professor, the Patiala police chief and district administration said police would probe the case and file a report. Patiala DC Sakshi Sawhney said they were also considering giving a job to the kin of the deceased girl on compassionate grounds. All decisions to end the impasse were announced after a meeting between the district administration headed by the Patiala DC, Patiala SSP Varun Sharma and Punjabi University vice-chancellor Prof Arvind and the protesting student unions leaders. Earlier in the day, protesting students blocked one side of the entry gate amid heavy police deployment. It was only after the assurance by the district and university administration that protesting students lifted the blockade. Was a bright student, says father Harcharan Singh, father of the deceased girl, while talking to Hindustan Times, said his daughter was a bright student. She was preparing for UPSC along with her ongoing studies and has always been securing top ranks, he said while protesting at the university along with students. He added that he wanted the professor be booked for mentally harassing his daughter. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! Durg : A bandh was observed in Durg and Bhilai cities of Chhattisgarh on Monday over the death of a 32-year-old Sikh man who was thrashed by a group of men last week. A bandh was observed in Durg and Bhilai cities of Chhattisgarh on Monday over the death of a 32-year-old Sikh man who was thrashed by a group of men last week Business establishments were shut in the two cities till late afternoon during the bandh called by the Chhattisgarh Sikh Panchayat to protest against the alleged murder. Malkeet Singh was allegedly thrashed by a group of persons at ITI grounds under Khursipar police station area of Durg district on the intervening night of September 15 and 16. The victim succumbed to his injuries at a private hospital, police said. Four persons were arrested and a teenage boy was detained on Saturday in connection with the offence, they said. While the exact reason for the attack is yet to be ascertained, the deceased mans family members have alleged that he was beaten up when he raised pro-India slogans while watching the film Gadar-2 on his mobile phone along with a friend. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Moga: A 45-year-old block president of the Congress was shot dead by two unidentified assailants at his residence at Dala village in Moga on Monday evening. A 45-year-old block president of the Congress, Baljinder Singh Bali, was shot dead by two unidentified assailants at his residence at Dala village in Moga on Monday evening The deceased, Baljinder Singh Bali, was partys Ajitgarh block chief. According to the police, Bali had called a barber at his residence and was getting his beard trimmed when he received a call. As Bali was also a nambardar of the village, the caller asked for his signatures on some documents. The Congress leader went to the front gate of his house where the attackers were waiting for him. As soon as Bali opened the gate, one of the attackers opened fire at him from a pistol. The assailants then fled on a black Pulsar motorcycle, leaving the weapon behind, said police. The entire incident was captured on camera. The CCTV footage shows an assailant firing at Bali. The Congress leader was rushed to a hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead. Bali sustained a bullet injury on his chest and another in his stomach. Moga SP (investigation) Ajay Raj Singh said the police have initiated a probe. So far, we have got no leads, but we are looking into all angles. We are trying to identify the assailants and teams have been formed to trace them. The CCTV footage of the surrounding areas is also being examined, he said. A murder case has been registered at the Mehnana police station in Moga. In a Facebook post, the veracity of which HT couldnt independently verify, Canada-based most-wanted gangster Arsh Dala, who also belongs to Dala village, took responsibility of Balis murder. I have got Bali eliminated as he was responsible for keeping my mother in the custody of the crime investigation agency (CIA). He has also got my friends arrested. Killing him was my only purpose, the post reads. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Parteek Singh Mahal Parteek Singh Mahal is a multimedia correspondent based at Faridkot in Punjab. He covers medical education, politics and Punjab police. ...view detail The Punjab vigilance bureau (VB) on Monday arrested former Congress MLA from Ferozepur Rural Satkar Kaur and her husband Jasmail Singh in a disproportionate assets (DA) case. The Punjab vigilance bureau (VB) on Monday arrested former Congress MLA from Ferozepur Rural Satkar Kaur and her husband Jasmail Singh in a disproportionate assets (DA) case. (HT file photo) Satkar Kaur, 44, was elected as the Congress MLA from Ferozepur Rural in 2017 and later joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2022 after the Congress denied her the ticket. She was questioned by the VB in March, too. Also read: Punjab BJP chief Sunil Jakhar announces his new team, does a balancing act I have done nothing illegal. I am cooperating with the probe agency, Satkar Kaur had earlier told the media, while adding, Its all politically motivated. I have full faith in the legal system and there is nothing to fear. VB senior superintendent of police (SSP) Gurmeet Singh said Satkar Kaur and her husband Jasmail Singh, alias Laddi Gehri, were arrested after a thorough probe into a complaint received against them. Satkar Kaur was picked by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi as the candidate for the reserved seat in the 2012 assembly elections. Rahul had even visited her constituency to address a poll rally. She lost to Shiromani Akali Dals Joginder Singh Jindu by a slender margin of 16 votes. In the 2017 elections, she defeated Jindu by more than 23,000 votes. In 2022, however, she was denied the party ticket and expelled by the Congress for anti-party activities. She went on to join the BJP. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! Former Shiromani Akali Dal minister Jagdish Singh Garcha, 85, his wife, sister and a domestic help were found unconscious at their house by their neighbour, BJP leader Jagmohan Sharma, in the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Nagar on Pakhowal road in Ludhiana on Monday morning. Police at the house of former minister Jagdish Singh Garcha, where he was found unconscious along with his wife, sister and a domestic help in Ludhiana on Monday. (Gurpreet Singh/HT) Police said Sharma raised the alarm and reported the matter when he found that the family members were lying unconscious and the house had been ransacked. The police suspect a male domestic help, who is missing, sedated the family and made off with cash, ornaments and valuables. Also read: Ferozepur Rural ex-Congress MLA Satkar Kaur, husband held for corruption Inspector Gurpreet Singh of Sadar police station reached the spot and initiated investigation. The police are scanning CCTV footage of the area to trace the accused. Garcha and the three other victims were rushed to hospital, where the condition of the Akali leader is stated to be serious. The inspector said that they were yet to record the statement of the victims but it is suspected that the absconding domestic help served the family food laced with sedatives before committing the crime. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Tarsem Singh Deogan Tarsem Singh Deogan is a senior reporter at Ludhiana. He has 16 years of experience in journalism. He has covered all beats and now focuses on crime reporting. ...view detail Cleaning up a long-neglected closet can be a rewarding experience in more ways than one. Closets harbour treasure troves of memories besides the dust and the cobwebs spun by the quintessential hard-working spider. My labour of a monotonous Sunday evening saw me cleaning up a closet in our living room, which no one had apparently touched in more than two decades. Amid plumes of dust and the violent sneezing and coughing, I hit upon the yellowing pages of a book whose title page had long been lost in the vagaries of time. I discovered that it was the Indian Bradshaw, 1956, the integrated railway timetable for India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The erstwhile Frontier Mail, which ran from Peshawar, in present day Pakistan to Mumbai, on the Indian west coast, was the train that brought back my late Nana Ji from Pakistan into India across the Radcliffe Line after he had been separated from his family, back during the days of the unfortunate partition of our country in 1947. (Getty Images/Representational image) My mother, now in her late seventies, looked curious. She was, almost immediately, immersed in the yellowed and crumbling pages. Soon enough, she found the page where the train schedule for the Haripur to Taxila rail line (in present-day North West Frontier Province, Pakistan) was printed. I could see her eyes well up with tears as she read the name of her birthplace, Kot Najibullah, a small station on this route. She recounted how her father, working in the Indian postal department, used to travel to Haripur every morning by the 8am passenger train. The erstwhile Frontier Mail, which ran from Peshawar, in present day Pakistan to Mumbai, on the Indian west coast, was the train that brought back my late Nana Ji from Pakistan into India across the Radcliffe Line after he had been separated from his family, back during the days of the unfortunate partition of our country in 1947. It occupied a pride of place among the trains that connected Northwest Pakistan to Mumbai. I flipped through the pages and hit upon the schedule of trains from Delhi to Jaipur, which was a meter-gauge track at that time. There it was! The Pink City Express! The luxury train was much sought after back then. I distinctly remember the specially designed exterior and interior of the train, which reflected Rajput architecture and was coloured I different hues of pink. I had travelled on this train when I was 11, awestruck as much by the beautifully crafted interiors as the speed of the train and the serpentine view it provided when traversing the bends of the rail track. These days, the power of the internet and easy accessibility of the device called smartphone, has virtually pushed the Indian Bradshaw into oblivion. But these epitomes of the modern era just cannot recreate the memories associated with the yellowing pages of the Indian Bradshaw. One closet might indeed reveal an ocean of memories and much more! The writer is a Jalandhar-based psychiatrist and can be reached at gulbaharsidhu@rediffmail.com. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Police on Monday detained three overground operatives of the banned terrors outfit under the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA) in Jammu and Kashmirs Kishtwar district on Monday, police said. The detained trio Touseef-ul-Nabi, Zahoor-ul-Hassan and Reyaz Ahmad. (HT Photo) The trio, Touseef-ul-Nabi, Zahoor-ul-Hassan and Reyaz Ahmad, were taken into custody under the law that allows detention without charge or trial for up to two years in some cases on the recommendations of the police, they said. Senior superintendent of police (SSP), Kishtwar, Khalil Poswal said the three are hardcore operatives and named in various cases registered in different police stations. Due to their continued engagement in anti-national activities and role in motivating local youths to join banned (terrorist) organisations, the imposition of the PSA was deemed necessary, the SSP said. Poswal said the operation to detain the three was executed meticulously after obtaining PSA orders from the competent authority. Several teams were formed and the three individuals were apprehended from different locations in Kishtwar and subsequently lodged in different jails of Jammu province, he said. He said the police are pursuing a multi-pronged strategy to address the issue of anti-national elements. On one front, awareness programmes are being conducted throughout the district, while on the other strict actions will be taken against anti-national and anti-social elements to ensure the safety and well-being of the public, the officer said. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! A week after a Delhi Police constable was robbed of his car and valuables at gunpoint, Gurugram police arrested a 24-year-old man on Sunday for the robbery. Police said that the constable was robbed on September 9 on the Southern Peripheral Road (SPR) while he was on his way to report for his G20 Summit duty in the national capital. Police said that the constable was robbed on September 9 on the Southern Peripheral Road (SPR) while he was on his way to report for his G20 Summit duty in the national capital. (Representational image) Police said the suspect, identified as Mahesh Kumar alias Mundi of Shahbajpur village of Rewari, had robbed the vehicle to use it to commit another crime and was not aware that it belonged to a police officer. Kumar was arrested on Sunday night from Kasola Chowk in Rewari, police said, adding that the stolen car was also recovered from him. Assistant commissioner of police (crime) Varun Dahiya said that the suspect was associated with the Sunder Bhati gang since 2022 and the weapon used by him in the robbery belonged to Manoj Bhati, a member of the gang arrested in 2022. Police are yet to recover the weapons, he said. The suspect along with two of his associates had planned to rob the car at gunpoint for a killing to avenge the murder of his brother. We are verifying the facts and the name of the person they were planning to target, the ACP said. Dahiya said the suspects intercepted the Baleno car on the SPR near Kherki Daula late on September 9. They held the driver at gunpoint without realising he was a police constable and robbed him of 5,000 and his wallet which contained all his identify cards and other important documents. His uniform was also kept on the rear seat, he said. The constable reported the incident, and a case of robbery was registered at Kherki Daula police station. He reported to the duty on September 10, said police. Dahiya said a team of Palam Vihar crime investigation agency conducted investigation during which Kumar was arrested from Rewari on late Sunday night. Kumar was produced before the court and was taken on two days police remand for further questioning. His associates are still absconding, he said. Police said Kumar has a criminal history and a total six cases were registered against him at Kherki Daula police station in Gurugram and Kasola police station in Rewari Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! The Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPI(M) will stay out of the coordination committee of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) but will remain a part of the anti-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) coalition formed by national and state parties for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, the partys politburo decided at its meeting held in Delhi on Saturday and Sunday, leaders familiar with the matter said. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury took part in the three meetings the INDIA coalition leaders held in Patna, Bengaluru and Mumbai. (File Photo) Efforts should be focused to further expand the INDIA bloc and also to draw in significant sections of the peoples movements in this effort. While all decisions will be taken by the leaders of the constituents, there should be no organisational structures that will be an impediment for such decisions, the politburo said in a statement. It did not mention the coordination committee or the CPI(M)s decision to stay out of it. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury took part in the three meetings the coalition leaders earlier held in Patna, Bengaluru and Mumbai. Although CPI(M) nominated members to the less significant committees of the coalition, such as the campaign committee and social media committee, speculations started when it did not send anyone to the coordination committee which held its first meeting in Delhi on September 13 and decided that seat-sharing among partners would be worked out at state level only. The fact that both Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Congress are part of INDIA has made things difficult for the CPI(M), its leaders said. In Bengal, the CPI(M) and Congress are electoral allies and treat BJP and TMC as political adversaries. In Kerala, where the CPI(M) is in power, it is an adversary of the Congress. These are the two states where CPI(M) has maximum presence although in Bengal, where it ruled for 34 years, the communists currently have no MLA or MP. In August, the CPI(M) central committee allowed its Bengal unit to contest against the TMC in 2024 while letting other state units to formulate strategies that suit the purpose of INDIA. This was the first time a coalition partner took a formal decision against another. Md Salim, CPI(M)s West Bengal state committee secretary and a politburo member, avoided talking on the partys political compulsions while explaining the stand the politburo took over the weekend. Politburo took the decision because parties in the INDIA alliance have decided that seat-sharing in 2024 will be at state level. Our leaders had been saying all along that there is no need to form a separate political structure such as coordination committee within the alliance, Salim told HT. We see this (INDIA) as a mass movement against the BJP. We feel that all parties should come together and campaign jointly. If there is no seat adjustment at the national level then what is the purpose of this coordination committee? We will attend the next meeting of the INDIA alliance leaders as we did earlier. In the meantime, we should all hit the streets, Salim added. The ground reality in Bengal became evident on September 13 when the coordination committee met. As a member of the committee, Abhishek Banerjee, TMC national general secretary and Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjees nephew, could not attend the meet because he was questioned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on that day in the bribe-for-job scam case. While leaders of the Congress and other parties kept an empty chair at the meeting to symbolically mark the TMCs presence and accused the Centre of targeting INDIA partners, in Bengal, state Congress president Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and CPI(M)s Salim targeted the TMC. Koustav Bagchi, a Bengal Congress leader, even sent an e-mail to Congress national general secretary K C Venugopal saying standing in solidarity with tyrants and scamsters is an insult to party workers in Bengal. On Monday, Abhishek Banerjee did not make any remark against the CPI(M) while reacting to its decision to stay out of the coordination committee. We have invited all parties to join this movement and fight unitedly against the BJP. If the CPI(M) or any party from others states take a different stand then it is entirely their internal matter, the TMC MP said in Kolkata. This was not the first time he avoided a confrontation with INDIA partners in Bengal. Prior to the September 5 Dhupguri assembly bypoll, both Chowdhury and Salim targeted the TMC during their campaign but Banerjee did not utter a word against them. The BJP has set a target of winning 35 of Bengals 42 Lok Sabha seats in 2024, up from the 18 it bagged in 2019. Bengal BJPs chief spokesperson Samik Bhattacharya said the CPI(M) is desperately trying to protect its existence, especially in Bengal where it has lost political ground. The differences and dilemmas project the real picture of this so-called alliance. Posters of the INDIA campaign are being put up across Bengal with photos of Yechury and TMC leaders. This drama cannot go on forever, said Bhattacharya. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Jadavpur universitys internal probe committee set up after a first-year student allegedly jumped to death from the universitys hostel last month has failed to conclude in its report whether the victim died by suicide or was pushed by someone or whether the death was an accident. The victims body bore injury marks and he was taken to a private hospital where he died (ANI) Meanwhile, universities in West Bengal have started reconstituting their anti-ragging committees and put in place anti-ragging measures after the students death in JU, the states top raking university. The internal probe committee (of the university) has submitted its report. The report has been placed with the anti-ragging squad. We are expecting the squads report within the next 15 days. Once the anti-ragging squad send its review, it would be sent to the anti-ragging committee, said Buddhadeb Sau, interim vice-chancellor of JU. The first-year student allegedly jumped from the second floor of the hostel on the night of August 9 after he was severely ragged and sexually harassed by a section of seniors and former students who were staying in the hostel illegally. He died on August 10. The report has suggested that the student was severely ragged in multiple rooms in the main hostel that night. He was also seen running down the corridor in a naked condition. The report, however, has failed to conclude whether he jumped to death, (was) pushed from the balcony or it was an accident, a professor, who has seen the report, said. The report also mentioned that even though other freshers were allowed to leave after some time, the victim was singled out as he had initially refused to carry out some orders during the ragging sessions. The student was seen in the dining hall around 8:30 pm. (Hostel) Inmates have recounted that he was crying and told the that he was being tortured, seniors were consuming alcohol in his room and that he was scared. The report stated that he was stripped and sexually harassed in room 104. Several inmates had heard cries, and screams from the second floor, the professor said. Police have registered a murder case on the basis of a complaint lodged by the victims father and have arrested 12 former and current students. They are in judicial custody at present. The internal probe committee recommended expelling four university students. It also recommended that five students be suspended for four semesters, 11 students for two semesters and 15 students for one semester. Also Read: Jadavpur ragging case: Police move court, eye Pocso charges Following the incident, JU authorities shifted first-year students to a separate hostel while work is on to install CCTV cameras at the university gates. A few other universities, such as the North Bengal University and Visva Bharati (VB), the states only central university, have also reconstituted their anti-ragging committees. On September 13, the universitys anti-ragging committee has been reconstituted. The committee has 11 members and 21 members and invitees, said a professor of VB. Some universitys such as Burdwan University have ordered former students who were overstaying in the hostels to immediately leave the premises. A week after the death of a first-year student in JU, the state government set up a fact-finding committee to look into the administrative lapses and infrastructure gaps in the university. West Bengal Governor, CV Ananda Bose, too set up a separate high-level committee headed by former Chief Justice of Karnataka high court Subhro Kamal Mukherjee to look into the issue and come up with suggestions on how to end ragging and violence in campuses. Both reports are yet to be submitted. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON LUCKNOW UP Power Corporation Ltd (UPPCL) chairman Ashish Kumar Goel has rejected all the objections the corporation had put on 75,000 applications received on the Jhatpat Portal for new electricity connections in a bid to pave the way for an early sanction. The UPPCL chief said officials have been told to work with the mindset that they have to give power connections to people without putting unnecessary objections on applications. (Pic for epresentation) As sanction for new connections was getting delayed, the chairman rejected all the objections related to 75,000 applications for new power connections, said a UPPCL spokesman. Goel directed officials to ensure that the executive engineers take a decision in cases where it was not possible to give a power connection due to some technical or important reason. He said the officials had been told to work with the mindset that they had to give power connections to people without putting unnecessary objections on applications. Later, holding a meeting with the Lucknow discom officials here, Goel directed officials to make all possible efforts to quickly dispose of consumers complaints. He also warned them against any misbehaviour with consumers or demanding bribe. He cited an example of a Gorakhpur consumer who was harassed in the name of reconnection of his supply. Such conduct is intolerable, he added. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! NAVI MUMBAI Navi Mumbai, India - March 28, 2023:Konkan Divisional Commissioner Mahendra Kalyankar told agencies to take urgent steps to protect mangroves at Ghansholi in Navi Mumbai, India, on Tuesday, March 28, 2023. (Photo by Bachchan Kumar/ HT PHOTO) (HT PHOTO) Konkan Divisional Commissioner Dr Mahendra Kalyankar who is the chairman of the High Court appointed Mangrove Protection and Conservation Committee has ordered immediate action on complaints regarding mangroves destruction. Kalyankar has ordered a number of concrete measures for the protection of mangroves including installation of CCTV cameras, satellite imagery etc. He has asked the government departments to have constant coordination for mangroves protection and conservation and resolve the complaints received with regard to them immediately through special efforts. The decisions were made at the 25th meeting of the committee held this week. Present for the meeting were additional principal conservator of Forests (mangroves) S V Ram Rao who joined through video conferencing, member secretary and deputy conservator of forests (mangroves) Anita Patil, deputy superintendent of police (Home) Sanjay Sawant, assistant commissioner of police Jitendra Javale and deputy regional officer of Maharashtra Pollution Control Board Rupali Sonkamble. Speaking on the meeting, Kalyankar said, We discussed various issues including transfer of mangroves areas to forest department, attendance of nodal officers, removal of debris and disposal at designated places, use of power and responsibilities vested in the government departments, organisations and officials for immediate and result oriented action and coordination amongst all government departments. He added, Several decisions were taken at the meeting and instructions given to ensure the fight for protection and conservation of the mangroves is taken up on priority. Stressed Kalyankar, Special measures will be taken to ensure that there is no violation of the mangroves areas as per the provisions of Indian Forest Act 1927, Forest (Conservation) Act 1980 and Environment (Protection) Act 1986. He concluded, We shall also constantly review the implementation of various orders given by the High Court on the issue. The HC is already seized of the contempt petition filed by NGO Vanshakti which has claimed that the mangroves have not been handed over to the forest department till date. Stalin D, director of Vanashakti however welcomed the proceedings as positive. The member of HC appointed Wetland Committee said, All credit to Kalyankar and the district collectors who have finally shown extreme urgency in tackling the issue and are putting their hearts to it. Site visits are now happening faster and meetings are happening at the collector office. It is a very good sign. He informed, We have decided that before the next meeting all pending complaints upto December 2022 will be closed. After that all complaints will be taken up on a regular basis. That is the mission we have set for ourselves and we intend to achieve it. I am pushing for it constantly. Some are still cautious though. Said NatConnect director B N Kumar, The mangrove committee has been passing directives to various authorities and agencies to protect the tidal plants with little action. The HC order to transfer all mangroves to the forest department has still not happened. He lamented, The direct result of this delay is the unchecked and uncontrolled destruction of mangroves either by the debris mafia or the infrastructure project proponents. Concluded Kumar, The mangrove committee is our last hope to save the tidal plants and it must act strictly now as promised. Box Major decisions at the meeting Installation of CCTV cameras wherever required to deter and keep an eye on those trying to harm the sensitive mangroves areas. Preparation of maps every six months through satellite high resolution images of mangrove areas in the State. If any changes are found, they will be taken up by the committee for discussion and requisite action. Measures to create hurdles for the entry of vehicles in sensitive mangrove areas. Creation of an independent secretariat along with a central control cell for mangroves related complaints and their resolution. Confirm the sensitive mangrove areas in the state and ensure their surveillance by either the police, forest officers or security guards of Maharashtra Security Board. Protection and conservation along with restoration of mangroves at affected areas through consultation with experts. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON LUCKNOW Social activist Maheshwar Thounaojam, who is also the national secretary of the Republican Party of India (RPI-Athawale) and a representative of the Meitei community, visited Lucknow to draw attention to the plight of people in Manipur, which has witnessed large-scale violence for the last few months. (HT Photo) He said, As citizens of India, Meiteis feel that there is an urgent need to strictly implement the NRC in Manipur. The ongoing clashes should be considered a national threat, and the Kuki narco-terrorists should be expelled from Indian soil as soon as possible. The agreement with the Kuki militants should be terminated, as they have been involved in various illegal activities, including breaking all the ground rules. Addressing a press conference here in Lucknow on Monday, Thounaojam said, May 3, 2023, the day when the ethnic violence erupted, will remain a dark day in Manipur. However, it should be noted that the Kuki narco-terrorists had been planning it for a very long time. The chief minister of Manipur initiated a campaign called the War on Drugs to put an end to poppy cultivation and illegal drug trafficking in Manipur. Over time, efforts to preserve the reserved forests also commenced. On May 3, they organised a rally against the inclusion of Meiteis in the Schedule Tribe list, which was merely a ruse to facilitate the ethnic cleansing of the Meiteis from the Kuki-dominated areas. Unlike the Naga-dominated areas, there was no violence. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON PATNA Additional charge of BN Mandal University (BNMU), Madhepura, has been given to Purnea University vice chancellor Raj Nath Yadava till further orders as a purely temporary arrangement while Kameshwar Singh Darbhanga Sanskrit University (KSDSU) vice chancellor Shashi Nath Jha has been given an extension, according to a Raj Bhawan notification issued Monday. HT Image Consequent upon completion of tenure of present BNMU vice chancellor Ram Kishor Prasad Raman, on Monday the Chancellor has been pleased to order Purnea University VC Prof Raj Nath Yadava, to perform the duties of BNMU VC in addition to his own duties with effect from September 19 till the appointment of regular VC or until further orders, whichever is earlier, says the notification issued by Robert L Chongthu, principal secretary to the Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar. Governor is the Chancellor of state universities. It is directed not to take any policy decision, without approval of the Chancellor, for which an order has already been issued for strict compliance, the notification further says. Meanwhile, the Raj Bhawan has given extension to Kameshwar Singh Darbhanga Sanskrit University (KSDSU) vice chancellor Shashi Nath Jha, who three-year term ends on September 20. His extension will raise hopes for Patna University VC Girish Choudhary, whose term ends on September 22 and for whose extension chief minister Nitish Kumar had openly batted before the Governor earlier this month at a function in PU. On August 4, the Raj Bhawan had invited applications for the post of VCs in seven state universities. Six of them were set to have vacancies this month, while Aryabhat Knowledge University (AKU) has already been without a VC. However, the process got affected after the Bihar education department also gave separate advertisements on August 22 and later withdrew them after chief minister Nitish Kumar met Governor Arlekar. According to a senior official in the Raj Bhawan, the process for appointment of new VCs in all the seven universities would start soon, though it could take at least a month before the new incumbents would be appointed after consultation between the Governor and the CM on the panel of names submitted by the search committee for each university. The names of nominees of the state government, the UGC and the Chancellor have arrived and the process would get underway within a few days for interaction with shortlisted candidates. Till then, temporary charge of universities having vacancy would be given after the terms of the present incumbents end, he added. Apart from BNMU, the universities having vacancy at the top over the next one week include Patna University, Lalit Narayan Mithila University in Darbhanga, Kameshwar Singh Darbhanga Sanskrit University, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bihar University in Muzaffarpur, Jai Prakash University in Chapra and Aryabhatta Knowledge University in Patna. The search for AKU vice chancellor has been on for the last three years and the advertisements for inviting applications had to be cancelled thrice earlier. After the appointment of VCs, the process for appointment of pro-VCs would be taken up. Along with the six VCs completing their term this month, the tenure of seven Pro-VCs will also end. They were all appointed on September 19, 2020, by the Raj Bhawan just ahead of the Election Commission notification for Bihar Assembly elections to end the long spell ad hocism. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Arun Kumar Arun Kumar is Senior Assistant Editor with Hindustan Times. He has spent two-and-half decades covering Bihar, including politics, educational and social issues. ...view detail The University of Delhi (DU) will begin the registration process for special spot round admission for UG courses today, September 18, 2023. Interested candidates can register online through the official website at admission.uod.ac.in. Candidates will be able to apply for the special spot round admission for UG courses till September 20. Delhi University Begins Special Spot Round Admission Registration for UG Courses; Last Date September 20, 2023 The University will display the vacant seat for the special spot round at 5 pm today, September 18. The Delhi University UG special spot seat allotment result 2023 will be released on September 21, 2023. The colleges have to approve the online applications by September 23. The last date to submit the online payment of admission fees by the candidates is September 24. Candidates can check the detailed DU Special Spot round admission schedule here. DU Special Spot Round: Know how to register Visit the Delhi University CSAS portal at admission.uod.ac.in. On the homepage, click on the registration tab Register and proceed with the application form Enter your preferences Submit the application form and take print for future reference. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! Get latest news on Education along with updates on Board Exams and Competitive Exams at Hindustan Times. Also get latest Job updates on Employment News SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Exam and College Guide Top Engineering Colleges in India Click here Click here Top Medical Colleges in India Click here Click here Popular BBA colleges in India Click here Click here Explore Scholarships Click here Click here Top LLB Colleges in India Click here ?? En su primera intervencion en la #ONU, la presidenta Dina Boluarte dijo que el Peru sigue firme en su compromiso de alcanzar mejores niveles de vida y de desarrollo sostenible, lo que se refleja en las diversas politicas que impulsa el Gobierno en favor de los peruanos. ???????? pic.twitter.com/vekdIBKP7d Its a very busy day at the Panday household, with all the prep underway for Bappas arrival, when we pay a visit for this exclusive shoot with Ananya Panday. Actor Ananya Panday poses exclusively for HT City on Ganesh Chaturthi. (Photo: Satish Bate/ HT) Her mother, Bhavana Panday, father Chunky, nani Chitra Khosla- everyone is talking excitedly, and are more than happy giving their inputs for the shoot. And in comes Ananya, wearing a purple and golden saree. Everyone chants Ganpati Bappa Morya, and we settle down for a chat as soon as the pictures are done, helping ourselves to a spread of sandwiches, patties and coffee. Ganeshotsav has always been my favourite festival, exclaims the 24-year-old, When I was young, we would celebrate this at school, and I would go to my friends house. I always felt a connection with Bappa, he used to be my mobile wallpaper at one point. I always felt very calm looking into his eyes. I would ask my mum as a child when would be bring him home every year, to which she would reply when you are responsible enough to do all the rituals yourself. And that finally happened in the year 2018, when the actor started shooting for her debut film Student Of The Year 2. She said You are ready now Now I think its going to be a generational ritual of bringing him home. Its our fifth year this time, adds Ananya, who also takes care of the decor and preparations. They have made sure that the idol they welcome home is eco-friendly, and they keep him for one and a half days, given the schedules they all have. But in that period, there is always someone around, they sleep in the same room, Bappas meals come on time. We feed him before we eat, she shares. The conscious choice to keep their idol eco-friendly also makes Panday feel relaxed. In fact now even firecrackers have been banned (in Delhi) We need to adhere to these rules the world is our home. Our visarjan happens in a special drum in our house, and its done from the hall till the balcony. We play all the visarjan songs and dance. Then after the visarjan, we put the water in our plants, so there's a piece of Bappa with us the entire year, she beams. Parineeti Chopra-Raghav Chadha's wedding Parineeti Chopra and Raghav Chadha will reportedly marry in The Leela Palace in Udaipur on September 24. Priyanka is expected to arrive in India for the celebrations; the actor had also attended Parineeti's engagement in Delhi in May. Priyanka and Nick's daughter Malti Marie Chopra Jonas could also be spotted at the wedding. Malti visited India for the first time in March this year and pictures of her arriving at Mumbai airport with Nick and Priyanka had gone viral. Nick Jonas to attend Parineeti's wedding? However, it appears as though Nick who also visited Rajasthan in 2018 for his lavish wedding with Priyanka in Jodhpur might not be able take part in Parineeti's wedding festivities. As per The Jonas Brothers' website, Nick is scheduled to perform with brothers Kevin and Joe Jonas almost every day for the next few days. The brothers had kicked off their 2023 tour, titled The Tour, with a sold-out performance at Yankee Stadium in New York on August 12. Since then, they were joined by Priyanka Chopra as well as Joe's now estranged wife, actor Sophie Turner, at The Jonas Brothers concerts in the US. The Jonas Brothers' tour dates The Jonas Brothers recently performed in Omaha, and pictures and videos of Priyanka from the show, where Nick also celebrated his birthday, were all over social media. In the days leading up to Parineeti's wedding, the band is set to perform in Philadelphia on September 21, in Baltimore on September 22 and in Washington DC on September 23. The band is not performing on Parineeti's wedding date September 24. However, a day later (September 25), The Jonas Brothers will be in Pittsburgh for another concert. The band will then be in Lexington for a concert on September 26. Amid The Jonas Brothers' ongoing tour, the family has also been in news because of Joe Jonas and Sophie Turner's divorce. The former couple officially announced the split earlier this month via identical Instagram posts amid speculation that the marriage had ended. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Shruti Haasan got irritated when a man continued to follow her and eventually approached her at the Mumbai airport recently. She looked worried at first when she realised that someone was following her but soon, Shruti got angry at the person. (Also read| Sridevi to Shruti Haasan: What south Indian heroines said about working in Bollywood) A man followed Shruti Haasan on the airport and she was quite disturbed. A man follows Shruti In a paparazzi video, Shruti was seen walking fast as she kept turning back and checking something. She asked the paps a few times, "Who is he?" Later, she tried to avoid an encounter with the person and walked in different a direction. Toward the end of the video, a man was seen approaching Shruti and she immediately stepped back. With an irritated look on her face, Shruti said, "I don't know who you are, sir!" Boyfriend receives Shruti In another paparazzi video, Shruti was seen walking happily toward her car as her boyfriend, doodle artist Shantanu Hazarika greeted her and helped her board the vehicle. Shruti was in an all-black attire when she arrived at the airport. Shruti was coming back from Dubai when she encountered the ugly incident. She attended the South Indian International Movie Awards (SIIMA) was held at the Dubai World Trade Centre in Dubai (United Arab Emirates). The event started on September 15 and concluded on September 16. Shruti's recent projects Earlier this year, Shruti was seen in two Telugu hits. These include Veera Simha Reddy in which she featured opposite Nadamuri Balakrishna, and Waltair Veerayya which featured her alongside Chiranjeevi and Ravi Teja. Next up, Shruti has Prashant Neel's Salaar Part 1 slated for release soon. Prabhas will star in the lead role in the film which also features Jagapathi Babu, Sriya Reddy, and Easwari Rao in important roles. Produced by Vijay Kiragandur, Salaar will release in five Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Tamil, and Hindi. The film was initially slated for a September 28 release in theatres worldwide but has been postponed. Announcing the delay, the production house Hombale Films said in a statement, "We deeply appreciate your unwavering support for #Salaar. With consideration, we must delay the original September 28 release due to unforeseen circumstances. Please understand this decision is made with care, as we're committed to delivering an exceptional cinematic experience. Our team is working tirelessly to meet the highest standards. The new release date will be revealed in due course. Stay with us as we make the final touches on #SalaarCeaseFire and thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. #SalaarComingSoon." SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR HT Entertainment Desk Dedicated professionals who write about cinema and television in all their vibrancy. Expect views, reviews and news. ...view detail Hugh Jackman has spoken about his split with wife Deborra-lee Furness for the first time after their separation became public. Over the last weekend, the couple's joint statement announcing their decision of going separate ways after 27 years of being together grabbed media headlines. Now, as per a report by TMZ, when Hugh was asked to address the separation, he said it's a 'difficult time.' (Also read: Hugh Jackman and Deborra-lee end their marriage after 27 years of being together) Hugh Jackman recently announced his separation from Deborra-Lee Furness. Hugh addresses split As per a report by TMZ, Hugh was spotted on the streets of NYC on Saturday by a paparazzo who asked him about the split from wife Deborra-lee Furness. He said, I dont feel quite right talking about it on the street. But I appreciate your thoughts, man. Its a difficult time." Hugh was seen in a dark T-shirt that showed off his muscles, and paired it with black pants, black shoes and sunglasses. On Deadpool 3 That was not all. The cameraman further pressed the actor about the status of his upcoming film Deadpool 3, which is paused due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike. To this, Hugh said, Well, I cant really know until I get back to work. As soon as possible, man. Hugh then walked away on the street. Joint statement Hugh Jackman and Deborra-lee had shared a joint statement announcing their decision of going separate ways after 27 years of being together. Their statement to People read, "We have been blessed to share almost 3 decades together as husband and wife in a wonderful, loving marriage. Our journey now is shifting and we have decided to separate to pursue our individual growth. Our family has been and always will be our highest priority. We undertake this next chapter with gratitude, love, and kindness. We greatly appreciate your understanding in respecting our privacy as our family navigates this transition in all of our lives." Hugh and Deborra had first started dating each other after meeting on the sets of Australian TV series Corelli in 1995. They soon got married next year, on April 11, 1996. They share two adopted children, Oscar and Ava. Hugh and Deborra had attended the Met Gala together in May, this year. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Halle Berry has shared more details about her views on Drake's use of her image as the artwork for his latest single cover. According to Berry, the Canadian rapper did reach out to ask for permission beforehand, but she declined his request. Despite this, Drake went on to use her photo. Halle Berry Speaks Out: The Drake Artwork Dispute(champagnepapi Instagram) In a recent Instagram comment responding to a post about taking the high road, the Academy Award-winning actress addressed the situation regarding Drake and SZA's Slime You Out artwork. This artwork features an image of Berry covered in green slime from the 2012 Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards. One of the Instagram users questioned Berry's discontent, stating that the "photo is owned by Getty Images" and assuming that Drake had gotten permission and paid the required fee. In response to this, Berry explained her disappointment over Drake's actions. ALSO READ: Court orders Halle Berry to pay $8000 a month as child support after divorce from Olivier Martinez She replied, saying, "Cuz he asked me and I said NO thats why," Berry wrote on Saturday. "Why ask if you intend to do what you want to do! That was the f*%# you to me. Not cool. You get it?" This exchange occurred shortly after the Grammy artist revealed the cover art for Slime You Out, the latest single from his upcoming album, For All the Dogs. At that time, Berry had posted on Instagram, sharing a quote that read, Sometimes you have to be the bigger person... even if you're a woman. She expressed her disappointments in the comments with Drake for using her image without her consent. Berry commented, "Didn't get my permission. Thats not cool. I thought better of him!" ALSO READ: AI-generated Drake and The Weeknd duet nominated for Grammy, sparks controversy! The single Slime You Out is the second release from Drake's upcoming album, For All the Dogs, and marks the first collaboration between Drake and SZA. Both artists promoted the song on their Instagram profiles, using Nickelodeon-themed artwork that alludes to making childish decisions in romantic relationships. Drake is notably exploring unconventional artistic choices for his new album, including commissioning his 5-year-old son, Adonis, to design the official cover. The cover, revealed last month, features an image that appears to depict a dog with red eyes against a black background, with the caption, "FOR ALL THE DOGS. Cover by Adonis," shared on Drake's Instagram Tamil star Dhanush was the special guest at his assistant Anand's wedding over the weekend. He wished the newlyweds and even posed for pictures with them. Pictures of the actor with the couple were shared on social media by his fan pages. (Also read: Dhanush surprises fans with clean shaven head, visits Tirupati Temple. Watch) Dhanush attended the wedding of his assistant Anand over the weekend. Dhanush blesses couple Dhanush arrived for the wedding celebrations in a beige shirt, blue jeans and a blue cap. He also had a thick moustache in the pictures. He was accompanied by Ken Karunas, his co-star from Asuran. Dhanush shook hands with the groom as the bride smiled looking at the actor. Check out the pictures: 'A great gesture' Fans of the actor were impressed by his kind gesture. Wow, what a great gesture by Dhanush! It's wonderful to see celebrities showing love and support to their fans. This is why Dhanush has such a strong fan base, wrote one. Yeah our Thalaivar unexpected visit ... few mins before at his assistant Anand's reception, commented another. Later, Dhanush also met up with Rathika and Sarathkumar. He was seen posing with them for selfies in the same outfit that he attended the wedding in. What's next for Dhanush Dhanush is gearing up for the release of his film Captain Miller. He unveiled his first look from the film last month. The poster hints at the film's violent and action-oriented backdrop. In the poster, Dhanush is seen holding a weapon while several bodies are strewn all around him. The film has been directed by Arun Matheswaran, who has previously helmed films such as Rocky and Saani Kaayidham. It also stars Priyanka Arul Mohan, Shiva Rajkumar, Nivedhithaa Sathish and Sundeep Kishan in important roles."Captain Miller first look. Respect is freedom," Dhanush captioned the post. The film is slated to hit the theatres this year. Dhanush also has Tere Ishk Mein with filmmaker Aanand L Rai. The duo has earlier worked together in Raanjhanaa and Atrangi Re. Announcing the film on Raanjhanaa's 10th anniversary, Rai said in a statement, "There couldn't be a more perfect day to unveil our next venture, Tere Ishk Mein, with Dhanush. Raanjhanaa holds a special place in my heart, and the love and adoration it continues to receive from fans worldwide is truly heartwarming. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! ott:10 SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR HT Entertainment Desk Dedicated professionals who write about cinema and television in all their vibrancy. Expect views, reviews and news. ...view detail Director Lokesh Kanagaraj's upcoming film Leo, featuring actor Vijay, has generated significant buzz. On Monday, the film's Telugu poster went viral. It featured slogans like "Keep calm and avoid the battle." (Also read: Leo first look: Poster of Lokesh Kanagaraj's eagerly-awaited film released on Vijays birthday. See pic) Leo stars Vijay in the lead and is one of the biggest Tamil releases of the year. Director Lokesh Kanagaraj himself shared the posters on his Twitter (X) page. Given this recent development, fans are eagerly waiting for the next set of posters for the film, which are expected to be released over the next four days. In the movie, Trisha, who is paired opposite Vijay after many years, also has a prominent role. The cast also includes Kollywood stars like Keerthy Suresh, Arjun, Misha Ghoshal, Priya Anand, Mansoor Ali Khan, and Sanjay. Several actors have been cast in this film, which was recently filmed in various locations in Kashmir and Chennai. Post-production work is currently underway, with dubbing being the next step. In a recent interaction at the SIIMA awards ceremony, Lokesh was asked about updates related to Leo. In response, he stated, There's a lot of work to be done for the film, which is why we haven't provided updates. We've decided to release updates gradually. We had planned to release updates about the film 30 days before its release. So, the first update will be coming tomorrow (Monday). Leo is set to hit the theatres on October 19, 2023. The film is being produced by Lalit Kumar of Seven Screen Studio, with the music composed by Anirudh Ravichander, marking his third collaboration with Lokesh (after Master and Vikram ) and his third with Vijay (after Kaththi and Master). Leo has cinematography by Manoj Paramahamsa and editing by Philomin Raj. Vijay recently returned from US from Leo shoot to spend some time with his father after his surgery. The actor and his father reportedly were not on best terms previously. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! ott:10 SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR HT Entertainment Desk Dedicated professionals who write about cinema and television in all their vibrancy. Expect views, reviews and news. ...view detail In a recent episode of "The Real Housewives of New York City," Jenna Lyons, the former creative director at J.Crew, revealed a cringe-worthy encounter with renowned actor Ralph Fiennes, which she says left her cheeks red with embarrassment. The 55-year-old fashion maven shared her humiliating moment during a girls' trip to Anguilla even as other ladies took turns sharing their most embarrassing experiences. Real Housewives spill the beans on their most hilarious and cringe-worthy moments (Instagram)(Instagram) Jenna's tale unfolded at an ultra-expensive Upper East Side restaurant, a place she frequently visited in her youth when she was not so familiar with the concept of a black card. ALSO READ: Larsa Pippen takes a dig at her Real Housewives of Miami co-stars As she went on a steep staircase towards the entrance, her coat got caught on the steps, leading to a comically rapid fall. Jenna recounted, "The sound I made... I slam into the wall, and who picks me up? Ralph Fiennes!" Adding to her incident was Jenna's longtime infatuation with Fiennes, particularly after his performance in the 1996 film "The English Patient," which earned him his second Oscar nomination. She described her stockings as "utterly ruined" and her sporting rug burned on her hands and legs. The incident remained in her memory as one of the most embarrassing moments of her life. In a separate interview, Jenna shared a later encounter with Fiennes in a London hotel bar, though she remained uncertain whether he remembered the incident. Jenna wasn't alone in having her most embarrassing moment on the show. Meanwhile, Jessel Taank revisited the incident that left her topless in a Cancun bar during a spring break trip with friends. At a trendy club with a grotto, Jessel decided to venture into the water without a swimsuit. She recalled, "I slipped in like f---ing headfirst into the second level of the grotto, and my bra goes up like this, and my face is in the water, by the way." The incident left the crowd amused. ALSO READ: Guerdy Abraira of RHOM fighting breast cancer with Guerdyfied resilience, urges fans for empowerment, not pity Brynn Whitfield also shared a humorous and somewhat cringe-worthy moment from her youth. At the age of 12 or 13, she faced her first period and, in a moment of confusion, accidentally inserted a tampon in the wrong place. She laughed as she recounted the mishap, explaining that her conservative upbringing left her with limited sexual education. These candid revelations provided a dose of laughter and relatability on "The Real Housewives of New York City" and served as a reminder that even celebrities have their share of embarrassing moments. Bengaluru According to the police, the mishap occurred when the driver lost control of the car and rammed the divider on the national highway. Three people died on the spot and two others were seriously injured when a car in which they were travelling in collided with a divider on National Highway 4, at Anchepalya on the outskirts of Bengaluru on Monday. The deceased have been identified by the police as Augustine (27), Dareddy (28), and Nirosh (31) and the injured are Mithun Yadav (27) and Shatrughan (30). According to the police, the mishap occurred when the driver lost control of the car and rammed the divider on the national highway. The mishap occurred at around 4.30am and three people died on the spot. The injured, Shatrughan and Mithun Yadav, have been admitted to a private hospital in Nelamangala and are being treated in the ICU, a police officer said. Police said all the five members were working at Cognizent technologies at Manyatha tech park in the city. All the five had gone for an outing in the night and were returning to the city when the accident occurred, police said. We have registered a case under Section 304A (causing death by negligence) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and investigation is on, Nelamangala traffic police inspector Naveen Kumar said. He said that the preliminary probe suggests that the mishap occurred as the driver might have been drowsy early in the morning. The autopsy was conducted at Nelamangala taluk government hospital and the bodies were handed over to the family members, he added. Nostalgia vied for space with politics on Monday as the special session of Parliament opened to bid farewell to the grand colonial building that nurtured a nascent democracy into the formidable behemoth that it is today, safeguarding the drafters of Indias founding document, the Constitution, on its way. PREMIUM The circular Parliament House is unique. It was a late addition to the plan for the New Capital of Delhi (Sonu Mehta/HT PHOTO) Inside those hallowed chambers, lawmakers gathered one final time for a special discussion on 75 years of our nations parliamentary journey. Participating in the debate, Members of Parliament (MPs) reflected on the momentous events in the 97-year-old circular building. Since the discussion was a precursor to the shift to the new triangular structure, they fondly looked back at their association with the iconic edifice. READ | New Parliament should pave way for renewed democracy The circular Parliament House is unique. It was a late addition to the plan for the New Capital of Delhi. The need for the building was born out of the constitutional reforms of 1919 known also as the Montagu Chelmsford Reforms that mandated a larger legislative institution and significantly more power to central and provincial legislatures. Inherent in this was the need to accommodate the influx of incoming lawmakers that would create a semblance of self-rule in what was essentially a colony subservient to London. The citys planning committee and architects, Herbert Baker and Edwin Lutyens, had to integrate a new building into the plan. To buy time, British officers came up with two temporary solutions. One was to house the legislative assembly in a shamiana or tent. The other was to remodel an existing building to accommodate the new legislative body. Better sense prevailed, and the administration felt that accommodating members under canvas would tend to give the new legislative procedure a start under unfavourable conditions. The administration proceeded with the second proposal and constructed a larger council chamber in the secretariat building (currently the Delhi legislative assembly). In 1921, this became the venue of the first central legislative assembly. READ | Curtains for old Parliament building: What all happened on last day? The citys planning committee then asked Baker to design a new building for the bicameral legislature, as envisaged by the 1919 reforms. It identified a diamond-shaped site at the base of Raisina Hill for the new building. Baker made plans for a triangular structure appropriate for the site. But his design was rejected by the committee, which, on the suggestions of Lutyens, was in favour of a circular structure. Pleading his case for a triangular building, Baker wrote a lengthy memorandum to the committee. The criticism of the previous triangular plan was that its form had been dictated less by the nature of the buildings than by the geometrical limitations of the site. The criticism applies with equal, if not greater, force to the present circular plan and whereas in the former the visible dome uniting the three chambers would have at least given some expression the nature of the building, no such dome is possible in the circular plan, and it is a matter for consideration whether this circular form of building however beautiful it may be made in itself, will give distinct impression to the sentiment of the national Parliament which India will look for in this building, he noted. READ | First homespecial place: 10 women MPs pen down memories from old Parliament Moreover, the site as a whole demand at least one, if not three more such circular buildings, which will probably be used for mere overflow accommodation from the secretariat, so that the Parliament House of India may be indistinguishable in general external appearances from other comparatively unimportant buildings in its neighbourhood, Baker wrote, summing up his objections. He even produced alternative designs for the committees consideration but could not convince them. The committee finalised the circular design, and Baker and his team immersed themselves into designing the Parliament building and its legislative chambers. The Duke of Connaught laid the foundation stone of the building in 1921. Meanwhile, Indian members in the central legislative assembly were fed up with the rising expenses of constructing the new capital city. One member, criticising the project, said, We have no right to feed our aesthetic sentiments at the expense of the poor taxpayers of India. And I cannot find any justification whatsoever why we should think that we should be better housed ... when we really know that the country is actually starving and suffering not only in the sun, but I would say that many of them are quite unhoused ... READ | Constitution copy, commemorative coin: What MPs will get on Day 1 at new Parliament building As an architect, Baker was more culturally sensitive than Lutyens. While on assignment in India, he had travelled extensively to inform himself about the countrys traditions and cultures. His travels added elements of Indian architecture to his design. Unlike the more functional secretariat buildings or the luxurious Governor Generals house, the Parliament building presented technical challenges. For example, Baker designed semi-circular legislative chambers with high domes. His idea was that such a chamber would allow for more constructive legislative debates. He procured sound absorbent tiles from the United States of America to ensure better acoustics in the legislative chamber. But the high domes in the building created a peculiar problem fans could not be hung from the top, and inverted floor fans had to be installed in the Houses The construction of the building would take six years, and it was one of the first buildings to be inaugurated in the capital city of New Delhi. Baker gave Governor-General Lord Irwin a ceremonial golden key with which he opened the doors in 1927. Through the tumultuous 1940s, the building anchored the Constituent Assembly even as the freedom movement and the storm of Partition raged outside. And once India was free, it provided a safe refuge to what was an audacious experiment in democracy. In Indias journey as a nation, the circular building gradually came to embody democratic traditions one that few had given a chance at the moment of the countrys birth. But as the debate on 75 years of our parliamentary journey also highlighted on Monday, fault lines have also opened up in the national legislature. The bitterness in discussions and the lack of accommodation are a cause for concern. As the old building hands over the baton to the new, the only way to ensure that Indias hallowed tradition of robust grassroots democracy a model for the world endures is to engage more actively with the institution of Parliament. In 1956, the second Speaker of Lok Sabha, MA Ayyangar, released a small booklet introducing young readers to the institution, and held out an advice. The common men and women who are the real rulers in the parliamentary form of government have to be told what Parliament symbolises, what it stands for, and how it represents the hopes and aspirations of the people, he wrote. That moment is now. ? La presidenta Dina Boluarte llego a Nueva York, EE.UU., para cumplir una nutrida agenda de trabajo, que incluira su participacion en la Asamblea General de la #ONU y diversas reuniones, que permitiran seguir fortaleciendo la imagen del pais y promover las inversiones. ???????? pic.twitter.com/Ghb042ZV63 After the success of Indias Moon and Sun missions, the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) is now preparing for the countrys first (and worlds second) dedicated polarimetry mission to study various dynamics of bright astronomical X-ray sources in extreme conditions, providing vital information on the nature and behaviour of celestial objects. This mission is expected to be launched by the end of the year, scientists said. PREMIUM A rocket carrying Indias solar mission Aditya-L1 lifts off. (ISRO) The dates for the XPoSat (X-ray Polarimeter Satellite) mission are yet to be finalised but the work around it is progressing at a fast pace, Isro chairman S Somanath said. XPoSat is Indias first and the worlds second space mission to measure the polarisation of light. Polarimetry is a powerful tool that allows astronomers to infer information about celestial objects, from passing comets to distant galaxies. Isro scientists explained that the mission is unique and crucial because it will help them understand and measure emissions from various astronomical sources black holes, neutron stars, active galactic nuclei, pulsar wind nebulae that are otherwise challenging to study. Such emissions are mostly tracked by studying the chemical make up (using a spectroscope) and the time it takes them to travel a distance. While the spectroscopic and timing information by various space-based observatories provide a wealth of information, the exact nature of the emission from such sources still poses deeper challenges to astronomers. The polarimetry measurements add two more dimension to our understanding, the degree of polarization and the angle of polarization and thus is an excellent diagnostic tool to understand the emission processes from astronomical sources, the space agency said. The degree of polarization is the proportion of an electromagnetic wave that is polarized while the angle of polarization is the angle at which light of a certain polarization is perfectly transmitted through a transparent surface. Together, they can provide more information about the bodies that emit these waves. Isro added: The polarimetric observations along with spectroscopic measurements are expected to break the degeneracy of various theoretical models of astronomical emission processes. This would be the major direction of research from XPoSat by Indian science community. The mission will carry two payloads POLIX (Polarimeter Instrument in X-rays) which will measure the polarimetry parameters including the degree and angle of polarization, in medium X-ray energy range of 8-30 keV photons of astronomical origin, and XSPECT (X-ray Spectroscopy and Timing) payload which will give spectroscopic information in the energy range of 0.8-15 keV. The primary payload, POLIX, developed by the Bengalurus Raman Research Institute in collaboration with the UR Rao Satellite Centre (URSC) is made of a collimator, a device for producing a parallel beam of rays or radiation, a scatterer and four X-ray proportional counter detectors that surrounds the scatterer. POLIX is expected to observe about 40 bright astronomical sources of different categories during its lifetime of about five years. This is the first payload in the medium X-ray energy band dedicated for polarimetry measurements. XSPECT has been designed to provide fast timing and good spectroscopic resolution in soft x-rays. Taking advantage of the long duration observations required by POLIX to measure X-ray polarization, XSPECT will conduct long-term monitoring of spectral state changes in continuum emission, changes in their line flux and profile, simultaneous long term temporal monitoring of soft X-ray emission in the X-ray energy range 0.8-15 keV. This will be the second such mission in the world, after the National Aeronautics and Space Administrations (NASAs) Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer, or IXPE, which was built to discover the secrets of some of the most extreme objects in the universe, the remnants of supernova explosions, powerful particle streams spit out by feeding black holes, and more. IXPE was NASAs first mission to study the polarization of X-rays from many different types of celestial objects. Measuring the polarization of X-rays traces the story of where this light came from, including the geometry and inner workings of its source. The AIADMK and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are not in alliance in Tamil Nadu, a senior leader from the Dravidian party D Jayakumar said on Monday, adding that a decision on a poll-related pact will be taken during the elections. Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai. (ANI) The AIADMK party cadre will not tolerate criticisms levelled by BJP Tamil Nadus state president K Annamalai, the partys organising secretary Jayakumar said He doesnt respect the alliance dharma, (and) so Im saying there is no alliance, Jayakumar told reporters in Chennai on Monday. This is not my personal opinion but is of the party. BJP is not in alliance with the AIADMK. It (any alliance) will be decided during elections. This is our stand, Jayakumar said, adding that the BJP has an identity in the southern state only because of the AIADMK . The AIADMKs announcement came after a fresh round of disagreement with the BJPs Tamil Nadu unit turned bitter in the last few days after the former warned Annamalai for speaking against DMK founder and Dravidian icon C N Annadurai. He didnt put a full stop to it. He consistently kept insulting our leaders, said Jayakumar. The AIADMK had previously passed a resolution against Annamalai when he spoke of corruption cases against AIADMK leader, the late J Jayalalithaa. We already said if he doesnt stop, we will have to reassess our alliance. There is no alliance. Also Read: Tamil Nadu agency searches premises of ex-AIADMK MLA in DA case Jayakumar said the BJP cadres want an alliance with AIADMK but not Annamalai. This fresh bout of political conflict between the two parties started a day after AIADMK general secretary Edappadi Palaniswami (EPS) met Union home minister Amit Shah in Delhi on September 14. Leaders from the BJP and AIADMK told HT that at the meeting, the two leaders discussed the Kodanad heist-cum- murder case where the ruling DMK is said to have gathered evidence to pin EPS. They also discussed BJPs wish to contest in 15 out of the 39 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu. This number was seen as too ambitious since the BJP lost all five seats it contested in alliance with the AIADMK in the previous 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Unless EPS makes a statement on the alliance, we will not take anyone else seriously, a senior BJP leader who asked not to be named said. It is the AIADMKs tactics to give us fewer seats. On September 11, Annamalai made a remark related to an incident involving Annadurai in 1956. The BJP leader said that while Annadurai applauded a girl for singing a devotional hymn during a meeting in Madurai in 1956, he had said that thanks to rationalism, people no longer believe that she was able to sing only with the blessings of God. This had irked Muthuramanlinga Thevar, a caste leader and Annadurai apologised to him, said Annamalai. Three days after his speech, Jayakumar on September 15 said that Annamalai should apologise for the remark. On September 16, AIADMK leader Sellur Raja said Tamil Nadu will kick out anyone who speaks against Anna. It became personal with AIADMKs former law minister C V Shunmugam saying that Annamalai is trying to break the alliance. After splitting from the DMK in 1972, M G Ramachandran added Annadurais name to his newly floated party as Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam-AIADMK which later became AIADMK. Annamalai on Sunday rebutted that he is capable of dirty politics and said, he could list what Shunmugam had done when he was a law minister. In a veiled attack against EPS, Annamalai said statements from AIADMK are a reflection of their leader. The BJP leader, however, clarified that he did not denigrate Anna but only quoted history. They are jealous of the growth of the BJP here, Annamalai said. Nobody has fallen on anyones feet in BJP to become a leader, he added in an apparent reference to the sycophancy of AIADMK leaders falling on late J Jaylalaithaas feet. Annamalai also said that the ideologies of the BJP and AIADMK are different and that is acceptable in a coalition. There will be differences but for that we cannot be slaves, Annamalai said adding that sanatana dharma is the breath of BJP referring to the on-going controversy as well as his remarks on Anna. Threats and warnings will not work with me. The ties between the allies particularly between Annamalai and EPS have been strained for several months. The AIADMK has maintained that they have a good relationship with BJPs top brass Shah and party president J P Nadda. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Cauvery Water Management Authority has asked Karnataka to continue releasing 5,000 cusecs (cubic feet per second) of water to Tamil Nadu for another 15 days, according to a statement released by the body after an emergency meeting on Monday in which both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu made representations. During the meeting which lasted nearly two hours in New Delhi, representatives from Tamil Nadu said the state wants 12,500 cusecs while Karnataka has said it could release only 3,000 cusecs.(HT File) During the meeting which lasted nearly two hours in New Delhi, representatives from Tamil Nadu said the state wants 12,500 cusecs while Karnataka has said it could release only 3,000 cusecs. Karnataka cited its inability to provide the quantum of water Tamil Nadu wants on account of poor rains. There is a 19% rain deficit in the southern state so far this year. READ | Protests erupt in Karnataka over release of Cauvery river water to TN Taking note of the severity of drought in the Cauvery Basin in Karnataka, which has been increasing and putting at greater risk even drinking water needs and minimum needs of irrigation, the state made submissions that it is not in a position to release water unless the inflows into reservoirs improve, a statement released by the CWMA. In turn, Tamil Nadu urged for releasing 12,500 cusecs of water (which is inclusive of backlog 6,500 cusecs) for the next 15 days, the statement added. It said Karnataka has to ensure 5,000 cusecs to Tamil Nadu at Biligundlu for the next 15 days as indicated by CWRC (effective from 13th Sep 2023 for 15 days). READ | Mekedatu project only solution to Cauvery water dispute with TN, says DK Shivakumar Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) on September 12 asked Karnataka to release 5,000 cusecs of water per day to Tamil Nadu till September 28. This decision mirrored a similar order issued on August 28, to which the state government had submitted a compliance report. The Karnataka government is yet to react to the CWMA orders. On Monday morning Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said the state government is committed to protecting the interests of its people in the ongoing Cauvery water dispute. He announced the governments intention to present a strong case before the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) and also seek intervention from the Supreme Court. READ | TN causing 'unnecessary nuisance' over Cauvery river water sharing issue: Karnataka CM The state of Karnataka is fully prepared to present its arguments effectively before the CWMA. We will convince them that there is no water due to the non-availability of rain. We will also approach the Supreme Court and plead before the court to evaluate the existing situation in the state, he said. Shivakumar also mentioned that he had a meeting with Union Jal Shakthi Minister Gajendra Singh Shekawat, during which he provided a detailed overview of the ground realities in Karnataka. I handed over a letter to the Union Minister, which was authored by our Chief Minister. In the letter, we have earnestly requested his mediation in resolving this crisis, he added. In response to reports that an all-party delegation from the state had not secured an appointment with the Prime Minister, Shivakumar clarified: The Prime Ministers office has not yet granted us an audience. Its important to clarify that Tamil Nadu is misrepresenting this fact. The Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) has asked Karnataka to continue releasing 5,000 cusecs (cubic feet per second) of water to Tamil Nadu for another 15 days, an official statement said on Monday. The direction came after an emergency meeting was held on Monday in which both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu put forward their cases and made representations. An emergency meeting was held in New Delhi in which both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu put forward their cases. (HT archives) During the meeting, which lasted nearly two hours in New Delhi, the representatives of Tamil Nadu said the state had demanded that 12,500 cusecs be released while Karnataka officials said it could release only 3000 cusecs. Taking note of the severity of drought in the Cauvery Basin in Karnataka, which has been increasing and putting at greater risk even drinking water needs and minimum needs of irrigation, the state made submissions that it is not in a position to release water unless the inflows into reservoirs improve, a statement released by the CWMA said. In turn, Tamil Nadu urged for releasing 12,500 cusecs of water (which is inclusive of backlog 6,500 cusecs) for the next 15 days, the statement added. The statement said it was decided that Karnataka has to ensure 5,000 cusecs to Tamil Nadu at Biligundlu for the next 15 days as indicated by CWRC (effective from 13th Sep 2023 for 15 days). The Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) on September 12 asked Karnataka to release 5,000 cusecs of water per day to Tamil Nadu till September 28. A similar order was issued on August 28 to which the state government had submitted a compliance report. On Monday, Karnataka deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar said the state government is committed to protecting the interests of its people in the ongoing Cauvery water dispute. He announced the governments intention to present a strong case before the CWMA and also seek the Supreme Courts intervention. The state of Karnataka is fully prepared to present its arguments effectively before the CWMA. We will convince them that there is no water due to the non-availability of rain. We will also approach the Supreme Court and plead before the court to evaluate the existing situation in the state, he said. Shivakumar also mentioned that he had a meeting with Union jal shakthi minister Gajendra Singh Shekawat, during which he provided a detailed overview of the ground realities in Karnataka. I handed over a letter to the Union minister, which was authored by our chief minister (Siddaramaiah). In the letter, we have earnestly requested his mediation in resolving this crisis, he added. In response to reports that an all-party delegation from the state had failed to secure an appointment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shivakumar clarified: The Prime Ministers office has not yet granted us an audience. Its important to clarify that Tamil Nadu is misrepresenting this fact. Former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda on Monday said a legal battle will not provide the resolution the two neighbouring states need; instead both sides need to come together for a constructive dialogue. Speaking as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, Deve Gowda, made a plea for Tamil Nadu and Karnataka to put aside their differences and work collaboratively to find a solution to the long-standing dispute. ...this quarrel will not be solved legally. If at all for friends who want to have some sort of smooth understanding. Let all of us sit together and sort out the problem. Otherwise, things will continue...and struggle from both sides will go on and this is not going to solve the problem...Its a humble request...I only pray this problem will not be solved unless we sit together (and) try to sort out this problem from our sides. Legal battles certainly will not be going out to solve out this problem, he said. One of the petitioners in the Adani-Hindenburg case has requested the Supreme Court to reconstitute the panel of experts to investigate into the accusations of regulatory failure and breach of laws against the conglomerate, alleging conflict of interest of three of the six-member panel that is headed by a retired apex court judge. The panel was set up by the court through its order on March 2. (Sanchit Khanna | HT Photo) Submitting an application on Monday, Anamika Jaiswal claimed that inclusion of OP Bhatt (former State Bank of India chairman), KV Kamath (veteran banker) and senior advocate Somasekhar Sundaresan in the expert panel is not appropriate, considering their possible conflict of interest in the outcome of the probe into the allegations by US short-seller Hindenburg Research. Also Read:SEBI hid facts to shield Adani, petitioner claims in Supreme Court According to the application, Bhatt is presently working as the chairman of Greenko, a leading renewable energy company, which is working in a close partnership with the Adani group since March 2022 for providing energy to Adani groups facilities in India. It has also come to the knowledge of the petitioner that Bhatt was examined by the CBI in March 2018 in a case of alleged wrongdoing in disbursing loans to the former liquor baron and fugitive economic offender, Vijay Mallya. Mallya is accused of defrauding banks, including SBI, of US $1.2 billion. It is submitted that Bhatt served as the SBI chairman between 2006 and 2011 when the majority of these loans were advanced to Mallyas companies, contended Jaiswal, adding Bhatt should have informed the top court of these relevant facts by himself. Jaiswal is represented by advocate Prashant Bhushan in the matter. About Kamath, Jaiswal said that Kamath, who was the chairman of ICICI Bank from 1996 to 2009, figured in CBI FIR in the ICICI Bank fraud case, in which the banks former CEO Chanda Kocchar has been named as a prime accused. The CBI alleged that she (Kochhar) and her family received various kickbacks over her tenure in lieu of loans provided to the Videocon group, many of which turned into non-performing assets (NPAs). Kamath was the non-executive chairman of the bank when some of those loans were approved and a member of the committee that sanctioned/approved the loans, the application said. Senior advocate Sundaresan, the plea claimed, has been a lawyer representing the Adani group before various bodies, including the Sebi Board. Jaiswal attached a 2007 order passed by the Sebi Board, showing Sundaresan to have appeared for the Adani group. In light of above, there is an apprehension that the present expert committee would fail to inspire confidence among the people of the country. It is therefore respectfully prayed, a fresh expert committee may be constituted by this Honble Court with experts from the field of finance, law and stock market with impeccable integrity, and who have no conflict of interest in the outcome of the instant matter, prayed Jaiswals application. The panel, set up by the court through its order on March 2, is headed by former Supreme Court judge AM Sapre, and also comprises justice JP Devdhar (former high court judge) and Nandan Nilekani (Infosys co-founder). Hindenburgs report published in January claimed, brazen accounting fraud and stock manipulation by the Gautam Adani-led group. Though the conglomerate rejected the report as unresearched and maliciously mischievous, it triggered a massive rout of Adani Group stocks, which lost over $140 billion in days and forced the cancellation of a 20,000 crore share sale in the groups flagship. In another application filed on September 11, Jaiswal had alleged that Sebi not only concealed several facts about previous investigations against Adani companies, but also tweaked the regulations to keep the groups regulatory contraventions and price manipulations undetected. She contended that the market regulator did not apprise the court of an investigation initiated by the directorate of revenue intelligence (DRI) in 2014 against the Adani group companies over alleged overvaluation of import of equipment and machinery by various entities of the group from a UAE-based subsidiary. This application further maintained that Sebi brought amendments into the regulations relating to foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) and listing obligations and disclosure requirement (LODR) were in 2014 and 2015 respectively only to benefit the Adani group. Acting on a clutch of petitions demanding a probe into the matter, the Supreme Court on March 2 set up a six-member panel, led by retired Supreme Court judge AM Sapre, to look into regulatory failure by Sebi and alleged breach of laws by the Adani Group. In its report submitted in May, the committee said the allegations of stock price manipulation or violation of MPS norms by Adani Group companies cannot be proved at this stage. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Union Cabinet on Monday cleared the women's reservation bill in a key meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, announced Union minister Prahlad Patel. There was a strong buzz over the Cabinet move but the government skipped the customary press briefing post the Cabinet meeting. Prime Minister Narendra Modi chairs the meeting of the Union Cabinet, at Parliament House Annexe in New Delhi on Monday. (ANI) "Only the Modi government had the moral courage to fulfil the demand for women's reservation which was proved by the approval of the cabinet. Congratulations Narendra Modi ji and congratulations to the Modi government," the minister said on X (formally Twitter). Patel is the minister of state for food processing industries and sal Shakti. Reacting to the development, senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh wrote on X, Its been a long-standing demand of the Congress party to implement womens reservation. We welcome the reported decision of the Union Cabinet and await the details of the Bill. This could have very well been discussed in the all-party meeting before the Special Session, and consensus could have been built instead of operating under a veil of secrecy. He also shared a detailed post he made on Sunday to underline how the Congress has been supporting the move. "The Congress Working Committee has demanded that the Women's Reservation Bill must be passed during the Special Session of Parliament," he said quoting the CWC resolution that was passed at its meeting in Hyderabad this weekend. Ramesh had on September 17 said former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi first introduced the Constitution Amendment Bills for one-third reservation in panchayats and nagarpalikas in May 1989. It passed in Lok Sabha but failed in Rajya Sabha in September 1989, he noted. He also said then Prime Minister P V Narasimha Rao reintroduced Constitution Amendment Bills for one-third reservation for women in panchayats and nagarpalikas in April 1993. Both Bills passed and became law. "Now there are more than 15 lakh elected women representatives in panchayats and nagarpalikas. This comes to about 40 percent. "As PM, Dr. Manmohan Singh brought Constitution Amendment Bill for one-third reservation for women in Parliament and state legislatures. Bill passed on March 9, 2010 in the Rajya Sabha. But it was not taken up in Lok Sabha," Ramesh claimed. He said Bills introduced/passed in Rajya Sabha do not lapse and the Women's Reservation Bill is still very much active. "The Congress party has for the past nine years been demanding that the Women's Reservation Bill already passed by the Rajya Sabha should now get passed by the Lok Sabha as well," he said. Key Union Cabinet meeting The Union Cabinet met after the first sitting of the five-day special session of Parliament. The Cabinet meeting went on for over 100 minutes. Cutting across political lines, leaders have demanded the introduction of the women's reservation bill, which guarantees a 33 per cent quota in Lok Sabha and state assemblies. What is the women's reservation bill? The women's reservation bill seeks to reserve 33 per cent of seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies for women. According to the bill, one-third of the total number of seats reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes will be reserved for women from those groups. These reserved seats may be allotted by rotation to different constituencies in the state or union territory. Despite being a crucial step towards gender parity and inclusive governance, the bill has remained in legislative limbo for far too long. While the bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha in 2010, it was not tabled in the Lower House of Parliament until today. The bill says that the reservation of seats for women shall cease to exist 15 years after the commencement of the amendment act. Earlier addressing the media, Modi said that "historic decisions" will be taken this Parliament session which may be of short duration but is big on occasion. The cabinet meeting was attended by Union ministers including Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, Piyush Goyal, Pralhad Joshi, S Jaishankar, Nirmala Sitharaman, Dharmendra Pradhan, Nitin Gadkari and Arjun Ram Meghwal. Ever since it was announced that the Parliament session would be held from September 18-22, there has been speculation on various bills, including the women's reservation bill. In his remarks in Lok Sabha on the discussion on 75 years of Parliament, he asserted that the contribution of women parliamentarians has been on the rise over the years. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Union minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan on Monday said efforts are underway to ensure the release of over 30 Indians including 19 nurses from Kerala, who have been arrested by authorities in Kuwait for allegedly not possessing valid work permits. V Muraleedharan (HT PHOTO) It was on September 12 that around 60 people working at the Padra clinic in Kuwait city were arrested and shifted by the authorities to an immigration detention centre. As per the media reports, out of the 60 people, 34 are Indians and 19 of them nurses from Kerala. Kuwait authorities have confirmed that the Padra clinic does not have the permission from the countrys health department to run a clinic or hospital. Efforts are on by the External Affairs ministry and the Indian embassy in Kuwait to free them from the detention centre, Muraleedharan said. It remains to be proved if the healthcare workers at the clinic, including the nurses, have the necessary licenses as per the Kuwait law to work there, the minister said. Local media reports, citing the relatives of the nurses, said that they have been working at the particular clinic for many years and have valid visa and sponsorship documents. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Seven top former poll officials have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi opposing the new bill tabled in Parliament on the appointment of the chief election commissioner (CEC) and election commissioners (ECs), saying that diminishing of their status will also diminish the Election Commission of India (ECI)s international perception as an independent body. The former poll officials, mostly chief election commissioners, have urged the Prime Minister to reconsider the bill, people familiar with the matter said. The goverment introduced the new bill on the Election Commission in Rajya Sabha during the last Monsoon Session. (File Photo) The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023, was introduced by the government in Rajya Sabha during the last Monsoon Session. It will remove the Chief Justice of India (CJI) from the earlier formed panel to appoint the CEC and ECs, contrary to a Supreme Court judgement. The Bill also seeks to change salary and allowance structure of top poll officials, thereby altering their service conditions from that of a judge in the top court to a Cabinet secretary. The former poll officials, in their letter to the Prime Minister, argued that the downgrading of the status of election commissioners will impact the status of the Election Commission, that is considered unbiased and independent worldwide. Bringing their status down to that of a Cabinet secretary will be somewhat anomalous in light of the constitutional provision. Further, the whole Bharat prides itself on the high national and international recognition given to ECI. This will be highly affected by diminishing their status in the proposed bill, the latter said, according to a person who spoke on condition of anonymity. More importantly their status will also diminish the ECI in international perception as an independent body. ECI enjoys the kind of place among election bodies of the world, which is an exalted position, it added. The person cited above said that the Constitution gives election commissioners a status same as that of Supreme Court judges because it gives a perception of ECI being independent of the government. That is the reason why removal of election commissioners can only be done in a manner similar to that of a Supreme Court judge, he added. The former officials also added that they hope that their letter will receive a favourable response. As per the new bill, the panel that will appoint the CEC and ECs will have three members including the Prime Minister, a Union minister and the leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha. Earlier, the CEC and ECs were appointed based on recommendations of suitable candidates by Union law minister to PM, who then selected the candidates, and then President made the appointment. According to the latest list of business for Parliament, the Bill has not been listed for consideration in the ongoing special session. However, there is no confirmation that the government will withdraw it. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON In a first since independence, the legislature of India is set to move to a new complex during the special Parliament session. In a show of paying respect to the legacy of the old building, ten women parliamentarian across political lines recount their experiences and memories in a bid to offer their tributes to the edifice that remained the epicentre of India's democratic journey, as they prepare to bid the structure farewell. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi (L) and TMC MP Mahua Moitra (R) are among 10 women parliamentarians who wrote their messages.(PTI) All ten parliamentarians share messages of nostalgia of their jouney through the hallowed halls of the old Parliament building in hand-written notes. Union minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Smriti Irani wrote best wishes in her note, whereas, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi described about the number of intense debates and disruptions this historical building with sheer beauty' witnessed. "Stalwarts and history makers all work in its precincts. Parliament that has shaped 75 years of our journey as a confident nation. Proud to be a part of this journey and hoping the essence of this parliament continues in the new building," she wrote in her note. Akali Dal MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal recalled her journey from being an awed visitor to the Parliament building in 2006 to becoming an MP for the first time in 2009 followed by first time as a minister in 2014, these 144 pillars in this temple of democracy hold a multitude of memories for me. "This beautiful building, embellished with the history and handiwork of thousands of Indian artists, sculptors and labourers has been a place of intense learning and immense satisfaction," she wrote. In a similar line, Union minister and Apna Dal (S) MP Anupriya Patel recollected her first steps into Sansad Bhavan. "I could feel deep within that I am entering a historic building, which saw India gaining its Independence on 15 August, 1947, the framing of our Constitution and the evolution and strengthening of our country's democratic institutions," she said. Independent MP Navneet Rana also wrote about the first day when she entered the building and the days further which gave her the opportunity to lear a lot of things. Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) MP Supriya Sule expressed her gratitude to electorates in her constituency which let her attend sessions at the building. "Blessed and gratitude to the people of Maharashtra and Baramati for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the largest democracy in the world and attending sessions in the old beautiful Parliament building -- echoes the voices of the leaders who contributed to the development of our beautiful country," she wrote. BJP MP Poonam Mahajan took a poetic twist to express her thoughts and said, Antim jay ka vajra banane, Nav Dadhichi haddiyan galaayein. Aao phir se diya jalaayein." Emphasising on the historical significance, Congress MP Ramya Haridas called the building a palace of democracy which is the birthplace of strong decisions. Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra said the old Parliament building will have special place in my heart and equated it with her first home. "The building may change but its symbolism -- a free space for freely elected representatives of a free country -- is what is incumbent upon us all to preserve intact," she added. Rajya Sabha MP legendary sprinter PT Usha described her first visit to the Parliament in 1986 after clinching gold medal in the Seoul Asian Games. She further recalled stepping into the Upper House as its member in 2022. First time in my life I stepped into the Rajya Sabha with my right leg, touched the step with my right hand and chanted 'Hari Om' in my lips, she worte in the note. (With PTI inputs) SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR HT News Desk Follow the latest breaking news and developments from India and around the world with Hindustan Times' newsdesk. From politics and policies to the economy and the environment, from local issues to national events and global affairs, we've got you covered. ...view detail The biggest achievement of India's parliamentary journey is that the confidence of citizens in the legislative body has only increased, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in Lok Sabha on Monday. Recalling his entry for the first time into the current Parliament building, Prime Minister Modi said it was an emotional moment as he could have never imagined he would get so much love from people. The prime minister also highlighted the success of the G20 Summit, saying it is a success of 140 crore citizens, not that of an individual or a party. Discussing the parliamentary journey of 75 years, PM Modi recalled India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's famous tryst with destiny speech and said it will keep inspiring us. Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks in Lok Sabha. Here are the top quotes from PM Modi's speech in Lok Sabha On G20 Summit The success of the G20 is of 140 crore Indians, it is the success of Bharat. It is not a success of an individual or a political party. Many people have a tendency to be suspicious about India, and this has continued since Independence. This time too, they were confident that there would be no (G20) declaration. However, it is India's strength that it happened. Bids farewell to old Parliament building "When I first entered this building (Parliament) as an MP, I bowed down and honoured the temple of democracy. It was an emotional moment for me. I could have never imagined that a child belonging to a poor family, living on the railway platform would ever be able to enter the Parliament. I never imagined that I would get so much love from people. Bidding goodbye to this building is an emotional moment...Many bitter-sweet memories have been associated with it. We have all witnessed differences and disputes in the Parliament but at the same time, we have witnessed 'Parivaar bhaav'. All these memories are our shared memories, our shared heritage and hence, its pride is also our shared. On African Union's inclusion in G20 India will be proud that when it was the president (of the G20), the African Union became its member. I cannot forget the emotional moment when the announcement was made, the African Union President said that perhaps he would break down while speaking. You can imagine the fortune India had, to fulfil such huge hopes and expectations. On famous speeches by Nehru, Vajpayee The echo of Pandit (Jawahlal) Nehru's 'at the stroke of midnight' in this Parliament will continue to inspire us. And this is that very Parliament where Atal Ji said sarkaren ayyengi, jayengi; partiyan banegi, bigedgi; magar ye desh rahna chahiye. Terror attack on Parliament There was a terror attack (on the Parliament). This was not an attack on a building. In a way, it was an attack on the mother of democracy, on our living soul. The country can never forget that incident. I also bow before those who took bullets to their chest to protect the Parliament and all its members, while fighting the terrorists. (This is developing storyPlease check back for updates) SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR HT News Desk Follow the latest breaking news and developments from India and around the world with Hindustan Times' newsdesk. From politics and policies to the economy and the environment, from local issues to national events and global affairs, we've got you covered. ...view detail #Ahora | En la sede de la #ONU, en Nueva York, la mandataria Dina Ercilia Boluarte Zegarra participa en la inauguracion del Foro Politico de Alto Nivel sobre Desarrollo Sostenible. #CumbreODS ????????https://t.co/uvsk49s1Ig pic.twitter.com/0mtaKM9Gee In the wake of heavy rainfall lashing Gujarat, authorities have taken precautionary measures to manage the surging water levels in the state's prominent dams. The Sardar Sarovar Dam on the Narmada River and the Ukai Dam over the Tapi River have witnessed significant water release as a result of incessant rains, leading to concerns about flooding in low-lying areas. Police personnel cover their heads with umbrellas as they inspect the closed roads. (ANI Photo) The flooding cut off several villages as Narmada and other rivers were in full spate, following which 9,600 people were shifted to safety and 207 others were rescued in five districts. Rivers such as Orsang, Heran, Mahi, Meshri and Panam are also swollen due to heavy rain coupled with the release of water from various dams, reported PTI. Sardar Sarovar Dam water levels reduced by 10 lakh cusecs The Sardar Sarovar Dam in Gujarat has had its water level significantly reduced due to the release of approximately 10 lakh cusecs of water. This was initiated by opening 23 gates of the dam in response to heavy rainfall in the region. The Sardar Sarovar Dam reached its full reservoir level (FRL) of 138.68 metres for the first time this monsoon on Sunday morning. Heavy rainfall predicted in multiple districts The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Panchmahal, Dahod, Kheda, Aravalli, Mahisagar, Banaskantha and Sabarkantha districts predicting isolated extremely heavy rainfall till Tuesday morning. It has also warned of isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall in Gujarat in its forecast till Thursday morning. Ukai Dam releases 1 lakh 98 thousand cusecs of water In response to heavy rains over the past two days, the Ukai Dam, which spans the Tapi River, has opened 15 gates, releasing a staggering 1 lakh 98 thousand cusecs of water into the river. This action was taken to manage the rising water levels and to prevent potential flooding in the downstream areas. PG Vasava, the executive engineer of Ukai Dam, said, More than four lakh cusecs of water was received due to heavy rains in the past two days. Keeping in mind the upstream, 15 gates of the Ukai Dam were opened, and 1 lakh 98 thousand cusec water is being released. Several villages along the Tapi River were put on alert. Flood-like situation in Bharuch, NDRF conducts rescues The heavy rainfall has resulted in a flood-like situation in several parts of Bharuch. In Nikora village, people in low-lying areas found themselves stranded due to rising water levels. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) was deployed to conduct rescue operations and provide assistance to the affected residents. Schools closed in Jalore, Rajasthan In neighbouring Rajasthan's Jalore district, heavy rainfall prompted the District Education Officer to issue an advisory directing closure of all schools and anganwadis. The advisory read, "All Government and Private schools and Anganwadis in the district will remain closed today, on September 18, due to rainfall." SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR HT News Desk Follow the latest breaking news and developments from India and around the world with Hindustan Times' newsdesk. From politics and policies to the economy and the environment, from local issues to national events and global affairs, we've got you covered. ...view detail Prime Minister Narendra Modi led lawmakers in paying tribute to the abode of Indias democracy on Monday as members cutting across party lines extolled the contribution of the iconic institution that once housed the drafters of the Constitution and served as the custodian of the worlds largest democracy for seven decades. HT Image Opening the special session on the eve of the move to the new building next door, Modi struck a nostalgic tone as he praised Parliament for gaining the trust of the common citizen, recalled milestones in Indias democratic journey, praised the contributions of former presidents and prime ministers, including Jawaharlal Nehru, and hailed flagship programmes of his government and Indias achievement as G20 chair. We have undertaken a journey of 75 years, and as we bid goodbye to this Parliament house, we must remember that though this house was built by the colonial government, it was built by our sweat and toil, by our countrymen and with our money, Modi said during the 80 minute speech. We might be shifting to the new building but this building will keep on inspiring the coming generations, as it is a golden chapter of the journey of Indian democracy, he said. Over the course of seven hours, 32 lawmakers spoke on a gamut of subjects ranging from the G20 Summit to the history of Indias democracy. The future proceedings of Parliament will commence from a modern building complex next to the old one. On May 28, Modi threw open the doors of the sprawling new building with state-of-the-art facilities and increased seating for lawmakers pending a potential delimitation exercise at the national level. In a rare acknowledgement, Modi spoke at length about the countrys first Prime Minister Nehru and his Cabinet, as well as other Congress PMs. Who wouldnt clap at the mention of Pandit Nehrus contribution. Pandit Nehrus stroke of the midnight hour (speech) will always remain an inspiration. As Atal-ji said, governments will come and go, but the country has to remain forever, Modi said, referring to Nehrus iconic speech at the stroke of freedom, and Vajpayees stirring remarks shortly before his government fell in 1996. Referring to Nehrus first cabinet and Indias first law minister BR Ambedkar, Modi said Ambedkar sought to imbibe the best practices of the world and came out with a historic factory act and landmark water policy. In 2019, Modi launched the Jal Jeevan mission to connect every rural household with functional tap water. The BJP has often been critical of Nehrus tenure at the helm of the country, blaming his policies for many of the problems that the country battles today. Paying tributes to Ambedkar, who led the drafting of the Constitution, Modi said Ambedkar saw modern industrialisation as important to the cause of social justice. There have been many industrial policies and there will be more, but the soul of it is the same as the first one, the PM said, detailing how Ambedkar saw industrialisation as key for the empowerment of Dalits. In an emotive turn, Modi recalled the contributions of all former PMs and said the colonial-era building will remain a source of inspiration and place of pilgrimage for all times to come. From president Kalam to Kovind to Murmu, from Atal Bihari Vajpayee to Manmohan Singh, whoever has been part of this Parliament, they have toiled to take the nation forward. Modi referred to the success of Chandrayaan-3 and expressed gratitude for the acknowledgement of the success of G20 by the chair, saying whether it was the Non-Aligned Movement or the G20, the country and the House acted unanimously. G20s success is not the success of one man or one party but this entire country. Drawing an analogy to a family that shifts into a new home, the PM said that it was an emotional moment for him, recalling that when he entered the House as a first-time member in 2014, he paid his respects by bowing to the building. It is the faith in this House of the people which enabled a small tea-seller to come to this august HouseI never imagined that the nation would give me this much love, respect and blessings, he said. The new 64,500 sq metre, four-storey complex, built at a cost of 971 crore, takes over from the iconic circular building that was inaugurated in 1927 to function as the legislature of a British India, before housing independent Indias first lawmakers. But in recent years, the colonial-era structure showed signs of wear, and space was increasingly cramped, even for important legislative business. The grandiose new building houses a Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, a library and a Constitution Hall, apart from offices. It seats 1,272 people in its two chambers, nearly 500 more than the old one in at least four times as much space, according to the government. In his speech, the PM noted the confidence, achievement and capabilities being infused in Amrit Kaal, the period leading to the centenary of Indias independence. He said Parliament gradually became progressively more inclusive, with representatives from all communities and sections, including Dalits, backwards and women. He recalled historic pieces of legislation passed over the course of 75 years, including reducing the voting age to 18, formation of new states with unanimous approval and scrapping of Article 370 that accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir, and the Goods and Services Tax. He said in all, Parliament had 7,500 members and 600 women lawmakers. Women MPs have raised our stature and filled our hearts with pride. Recounting some notable lawmakers, Modi said the late Indrajit Gupta was a member for 43 years, Shafiqur Rahman continued to serve till the age of 93, and Chandrani Murmu held the record of being the youngest member at 25. In his speech, Modi also highlighted the creation of Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand and Jharkhand during Vajpayees tenure. But the creation of Telangana left bitter memories and neither Andhra Pradesh nor Telangana could celebrate, he said, adding that the bifurcation was carried out with wrong intent. The comments sparked a controversy with Telanganas Bharat Rashtra Samithi saying the remarks were disparaging and factually incorrect. Modi mentioned a raft of important landmarks of Indias modern history, its high points and some lows beginning from the valour of Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt and the writing of the Constitution by the Constituent Assembly members who sat in this chamber. He said Lal Bahadur Shastri, the countrys second prime minister, sowed the seeds of the Green Revolution from this very House, while his successor, Indira Gandhi played an important role in the liberation of Bangladesh. Modi recalled the Emergency years, when democracy was wounded. However, it is faith in this very house that people ensured a return to democracy soon. Modi also praised the courage of the Narasimha Rao government and Manmohan Singh for showing a new path for the economy. Modi said that MPs attended sessions as a call of duty despite facing ill-health and personal misfortunes. Even on wheelchairs, MPs have come to Parliament as a call of duty. Parliament, he said, did not stop even when the world and the country was devastated by the pandemic. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is considering developing a vaccine against the Nipah virus, as part of a larger plan to develop a bouquet of essential vaccines. Security personnel patrol near a deserted Kozhikode beach after restrictions were imposed by the district administration in Kozhikode, in India's southern state of Kerala on September 18, 2023 (AFP) The Nipah vaccine, especially, may come in handy given recurring outbreaks of the illness caused by the virus in Kerala. We are thinking about new vaccines such as a vaccine against Nipah. However, it is not going to be easy as the work would require looking for partnerswho can make it, and on which platform considering there are a number of platforms available now that were utilised for vaccines against Covid, said Rajiv Bahl, director general, ICMR. Our biggest asset at the moment is that we have developed vaccines on diverse platforms such -- DNA vaccine, mRNA vaccine, adenoviral vector vaccine, protein subunit vaccine, and nasal vaccine -- and we can use these diverse platforms also to develop newer vaccines against diseases such as Nipah, which is required, he added. Bahl also underlined the challenges that developing a vaccine against Nipah will pose that include commercial viability. There will be hindrances in developing a vaccine against Nipah that we are well aware of which wont be there in developing vaccines against a disease like dengue as it would have a large market. Everyone would be willing to collaborate with us to develop a vaccine against dengue but for Nipah or Kyasanur forest disease, for example, (required) doses will be fewer in volume as there wont be many buyers. For KFD it will be not more than two lakh and for Nipah it would be even less making it not very viable . It will be manufactured purely in national interest, he explained. Kyasanur forest disease, named after a region of Karnataka is a viral haemorrhagic disease, transmitted by ticks, which affects humans and monkeys. Bahl added that everything is still at the planning stage, making it premature to dwell on technical details. The US National Institutes of Health (NIH) announced last year that it has launched early stage clinical trial of mRNA Nipah virus vaccine. According to an NIH statement from last year, the experimental vaccine is manufactured by Moderna, Inc. and was developed in collaboration with National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseasess (NIAID) Vaccine Research Center. It is based on a messenger RNA (mRNA) platforma technology used in several approved COVID-19 vaccines. NIAID is sponsoring the Phase 1 clinical study, which is being conducted at the NIH Clinical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. Interestingly, NIH made a stronger case for a Nipah vaccine. Nipah virus poses a considerable pandemic threat because it mutates relatively easily, causes disease in a wide range of mammals, can transmit from person-to-person, and kills a large percentage of the people it infects, said Anthony S Fauci, then NIAID director, in the statement. The need for a preventive Nipah virus vaccine is significant. Nipah virus infection is a zoonotic disease that spreads between animals and people. Fruit bats are the natural host for the virus. The virus can cause mild-to-severe disease rapidly progressing from respiratory infection symptoms to encephalitis (brain swelling) leading to coma or death. An estimated 40- 75% of people infected with Nipah virus die. Although most cases are transmitted via animals, person-to-person transmission can occur. Currently, there is no licensed vaccine or treatment for Nipah virus infection. ICMRs National Institute of Virology in Pune is conducting whole genome sequencing of the virus to know which variant is in circulation in Kerala. The first test was conducted on September 12; therefore, it will take some time for the sequencing results to return,Bahl said added. In absence of a vaccine against Nipah and high infectivity and mortality, Bahl said that taking precautions is the best option. He advised people to follow social distancing and also wear masks. Ways to avoid infection is same as that followed during the Covid pandemic. Masking is important. Wash your hands and maintain personal hygiene. Also, it is most important to avoid exposure to bodily fluids of an infected patient and observe biosafety or hospital safety measures. And if symptoms are identified, isolate. Stay away from raw food that could be exposed to bats. And stay away from bat colonies, he added. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON India and Singapore on Monday reviewed collaboration in trade, investment, defence and security, fintech and digitalisation during their foreign office consultations in New Delhi. The foreign office consultations were co-chaired by Saurabh Kumar, secretary (East) in the external affairs ministry, and Luke Goh, second permanent secretary in Singapores foreign ministry. (Image posted on X by MEAIndia) The two sides also assessed the progress made in specific growth engines identified during the inaugural meeting of the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR) in September 2022, and looked forward to the next edition of the special mechanism created to drive bilateral relations. They also discussed areas of ongoing collaboration such as trade and investment, defence and security, fintech, digitalisation, green energy, skill development and people-to-people ties, the external affairs ministry said in a statement. The foreign office consultations were co-chaired by Saurabh Kumar, secretary (East) in the external affairs ministry, and Luke Goh, permanent secretary in Singapores law ministry. Goh is concurrently the second permanent secretary in Singapores foreign ministry. The two sides also discussed regional, global and multilateral issues of common interest. The Indian side appreciated Singapores decision to join the International Solar Alliance in June and thanked Singapore for joining the Global Biofuels Alliance that was launched during the G20 Summit. The consultations, held close on the heels of a visit to India by Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong for the G20 Summit, provided an opportunity to follow up on the leaders discussions and review the bilateral relationship, the statement said. Both sides expressed satisfaction at the political exchanges this year, as several Singaporean ministers were hosted by India for G20 meetings. Goh congratulated India for a successful G20 presidency. Both sides agreed to hold the next round of foreign office consultations in Singapore on a mutually convenient date. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a key Union Cabinet meeting regarding the agenda for the ongoing special session of Parliament at the Annexe building on Monday evening. The meeting lasted over 100 minutes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi chairs a key Union Cabinet meeting regarding the agenda for the ongoing special session of Parliament. Union ministers Piyush Goyal, Pralhad Joshi and other ministers earlier met Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah ahead of the cabinet meeting, sources said. The agenda of the meeting is yet to be revealed. The leaders during the meeting of INDIA bloc on Monday morning decided to continue with the floor coordination among the parties during the five-day session and corner the government on issues of price rise, unemployment, Manipur violence and Chinese transgressions on the border. They also decided to press the government to allow discussions on issues related to Adani firms, farmers distress, economic situation in the country, and the caste census. News agency PTI reported that the alliance decided to oppose the Chief Election Commissioner and other election commissioners' appointment bill which has already been introduced in the Rajya Sabha. Leaders of the Congress, TMC, RJD, NCP, left parties, JMM, Samajwadi Party, DM and VCK were among those who attended the meeting at the office of leader of opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge at around 10am. Former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi has already written to Modi about the absence of agenda for the special Parliament session, and proposing a list of issues she wanted a discussion on. Earlier, Modi said this Parliament session may be short in duration but is big on occasion, and is of "historic decisions". In his remarks to the media ahead of the five-day session, Modi noted that Parliament will move to the new building on Tuesday as he asked MPs to join proceedings with new enthusiasm while shedding old shortcomings, an apparent reference to frequent protests by opposition members during previous sessions, causing disruptions. There will be a lot of time left for "rona dhona" (whining), he said in a jibe at the opposition which has been criticising the government over the session, which is unusual for its timing. Earlier on Sunday, Joshi requested all parties for active cooperation and support for the smooth functioning of the two Houses of Parliament. The meeting of all the floor leaders of political parties in the Parliament was attended by various ministers and 51 leaders from 34 parties. Congress MP Manickam Tagore also reacted to the all-party meeting and said that this government runs the Parliament in secrecy. (With inputs from agencies) SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Hyderabad: Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president and Telangana industries minister KT Rama Rao on Monday took serious exception to Prime Minister Narendra Modis comments that the bifurcation of combined Andhra Pradesh to carve out Telangana was done in an improper manner. KT Rama Rao (File) KTR, as the chief minister K Chandrashekar Raos son is popularly called, described PM Modis remarks on Telangana as disparaging, saying they reflect his utter disregard for historical facts. I am deeply dismayed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi jis comments regarding the formation of Telangana. This is not the first instance where the PM has made disparaging remarks about Telangana formation, and it reflects his utter disregard for historical facts, KTR posted on X, formerly twitter. The people of Telangana tirelessly fought for six decades to attain statehood, a momentous achievement finally realised on June 2, 2014, he said. The journey to statehood was marked by countless sacrifices, particularly from the youth of Telangana, he added. Earlier, during his address in the Lok Sabha on the first day of the special five-day session of parliament on Monday, Modi lamented that Telangana being carved out of Andhra Pradesh led to only bitterness and bloodshed in both the states. Referring to Jharkhand, Uttarakhand and Chhattisgarh which were carved out of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, respectively, during the Atal Bihari Vajpayee regime in the most planned manner, Modi said bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh was done in an unscientific manner. When there were celebrations on both sides when those three states were formed, the bifurcation of united Andhra Pradesh had led to only bitterness and bloodshed in both the states, Modi said. It did not satisfy people of both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh and there were no celebrations on either side. Lashing out at Modi remarks, the BRS working president said it is crucial for political leaders in important positions to approach such sensitive historical matters with empathy and understanding, considering the emotions and sacrifices associated with them. To suggest that Telangana did not celebrate its statehood is not only factually incorrect but also comes across as ignorant and arrogant, KTR posted. In his attempts to criticize the Congress party, Prime Minister Modi has been repeatedly hurting the sentiments of the people of Telangana. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) defended Modis remarks, saying the prime minister had not opposed Telangana formation but was only pointing out at the manner in which the erstwhile combined Andhra Pradesh was bifurcated. He clearly said while the earlier BJP government could form three states without any hassles, the bifurcation of combined Andhra Pradesh was done in the most turbulent manner due to the inefficiency of the Congress in handling the situation, Telangana BJP chief and Union tourism minister G Kishan Reddy said. Everybody knows how the Congress leaders had used pepper spray to stall the bifurcation. Taking an indirect swipe at KTR, Reddy added that those who were used to speaking only on social media platforms had no understanding of the factual situation. The Congress also criticised the prime ministers remarks, with partys state unit vice-president and former MP Mallu Ravi saying it was incorrect to say there were no celebrations after the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh. There were celebrations across Telangana by all sections of people and parties, irrespective of their political affiliations in Telangana. In Andhra Pradesh, people did not celebrate, not because they opposed bifurcation, but because they had lost capital Hyderabad city, Ravi added. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Bengaluru Chaitra Kundapur, the main accused in the alleged cash-for-ticket scam was hospitalised on September 15, after she reportedly suffered from epileptic seizures when she was being questioned by the CCB officials Chaitra Kundapur, the main accused in the alleged cash-for-ticket scam, was discharged from the Victoria Hospital in Bengaluru on Monday, and taken to the Central Crime Branch (CCB) office in Chamarajpet for interrogation, officials said. She was hospitalised on September 15, after she reportedly suffered from epileptic seizures when she was being questioned by the CCB officials. The officials of Victoria Hospital, where she was admitted, had stated that her condition was stable. Police arrested Kundapur and six others on September 12 on charges of cheating Govind Babu Pujari (44) by falsely promising him a BJP ticket to contest the assembly elections from Byndoor in Udupi district. A Bengaluru court sent them to a 10-day police custody till September 23. Pujari filed a complaint at Bandepalya police station in Bengaluru on September 8 against eight people, including Kundapur, accusing them of extorting money from him by promising a BJP MLA ticket. Poojari owns Cheftalk Food and Hospitality Service Pvt Ltd, which has been running the subsidised Indira Canteens since 2017. Accused number three Abhinava Halashree Swamiji is absconding since the arrest of Kundapur and police have launched a search for him. The seer is said to have introduced complainant Pujari to former chief minister BS Yediyurappa before the elections in May, as a show of his connections. Pictures of the seer along with Yediyurappa and Pujari have been widely circulated on social media. Three teams have been formed to arrest Halashree, who is said to be shifting his hideouts. On Sunday, the CCB took the seers Innova car and driver into custody from Mysuru. We are searching for the seer, trying to locate him by interrogating the driver. We are trying to find out where he was last dropped, where he has taken shelter and other information, the CCB official said. Meanwhile, the CCB police have recovered over 3 crore which Kundapur had used for purchasing a car, gold and investing in fixed deposits. Kundapur invested 1.8 crore in fixed deposits in a co-operative bank in Kundapura and gold jewellery worth 65 lakh was found her house, according to CCB officials. Kundapur is said to have deposited 40 lakh in Shriram Bank with the help of a relative who worked at the lender. The account has been seized by the authorities, police said, adding that they have recovered 23 lakh worth of gold biscuits kept in another bank locker belonging to Kundapur. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Manipur governor on Monday constituted a one-member committee to probe into the abduction and killing of an off-duty Indian army soldier hours after chief minister N Biren Singh assured the deceaseds family that stringent action will be taken against the guilty. Manipur governor forms committee to probe into the abduction and murder of an off-duty soldier. (HT Photo) Sepoy Serto Thangthang Kom (41) was abducted by militants from his home in front of his son. His body was found on Sunday with a gunshot wound to the head. The state government is of the opinion that it is necessary to institute a one-man inquiry commission to ascertain the facts and circumstances leading to the death of Serto Thangthang Kom, the order issued by commissioner (home) T Ranjit Singh on behalf of Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey said. On Monday, office bearers of Kom Union Manipur (KUM) met the chief minister and demanded that a proper inquiry be conducted in the incident. The deceased soldier belonged to the Kom tribe. He (Singh) agreed to conduct a high-level inquiry under an inspector general-ranked officer in connection with the killing... the CM also assured us that stringent action will be taken against those who committed the heinous crime, KUM spokesperson Boyes Kom said. Family members of the soldier agreed to take his body from Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) morgue after the postmortem examination is conducted on Tuesday, following CMs assurances, the tribal organisation said. The family said that Sepoy Thangthang will be buried in his village, Litan in Chandel district. The tribal body also received assurance that compensation will be given to the next of kin of the slain sepoy. The CM hasannounced a compensation of 5 lakh to the family of the deceased and a government job for the widow of the soldier, the organisation said, adding that Singh promised that security cover will be provided at all Kom villages of the state. Meanwhile, residents of 53 Kom villages organised a sit-In protest at seven places, demanding justice for the death and provision of adequate security for the community. Army officials told HT on condition of anonymity said that the people involved in the killing of the sepoy are yet to be arrested. Police officers of Imphal West district, where the soldier was abducted from, and Imphal East, where his body was found, did not divulge information about the investigation. Koms murder is the second in a week of a service police of security force officer killed over the ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities. On September 13, sub inspector Ongmang Haokip (35), who was on duty in Churachandpurs Chingphei outpost, was shot dead by militants. At least 176 people have been killed and around 50,000 have been displaced in the ethnic violence that began on May 3 in Manipur. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Utpal Parashar Utpal is a Senior Assistant Editor based in Guwahati. He covers seven states of North-East India and heads the editorial team for the region. He was previously based in Kathmandu, Dehradun and Delhi with Hindustan Times. ...view detail Manmohan Singh, the former prime minister and senior-most Rajya Sabha member, and former Jharkhand chief minister Shibu Soren, who has been a member of both the Houses, have been reportedly invited to speak at a function in the Central Hall of Parliament on Tuesday to commemorate the country's rich parliamentary legacy. Former prime minister Manmohan Singh attends proceedings in the Rajya Sabha during the Monsoon session of Parliament, in New Delhi on August 7. (PTI) Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will lead a function, news agency PTI reported. The function will also see addresses by parliamentarians such as parliamentary affairs minister Pralhad Joshi, leader of the house in Rajya Sabha Piyush Goyal, leader of the Opposition in the Upper House Mallikarjun Kharge, and Congress leader in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury. Senior-most Lok Sabha MP Maneka Gandhi has also been invited to speak at the function. About the Parliament function The nearly one-and-a-half-hour function will begin and end with the national anthem and will be followed by the top leaders leading all MPs to the new Parliament building. Before the Central Hall function, three separate group photographs -- first of MPs from both Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha, second of Rajya Sabha members and third of Lok Sabha members -- would be taken at the inner courtyard of the old Parliament building, PTI reported. Lok Sabha proceedings will begin at 1.15pm, while Rajya Sabha will meet at 2.15pm in the new building. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday cited iconic speeches of his predecessors Jawaharlal Nehru and Atal Bihari Vajpayee and said they will keep inspiring lawmakers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (PTI) Pandit Nehrus at stroke of midnight [speech], and Atal Bihari Vajpayees statement sarkaare aayengi jayengi, lekin desh rehna chahiye [governments will come and go but the country should endure] will reverberate here [Parliament] forever, Modi said as he started a discussion in Lok Sabha on Parliaments 75 years soon after the House convened on the first day of a five-day special session. Nehru made the iconic a tryst with destiny speech at the stroke of midnight following the transfer of power from the British on August 15, 1947. Nehru called for the people of India at the dawn of independence to labour and to work, and work hard, to give reality to our dreams. Those dreams are for India but they are also for the world. Modis reference to Nehru and his iconic speech are significant as Congress has been accusing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of undermining the first Prime Ministers legacy of secular institution-building and conviction that India belonged to all its people. Modi said the old Parliament building has witnessed history in the making. He added it has the soul of India and democracy in it as he recalled the iconic speeches of Nehru and Vajpayee. The special session of Parliament began in the existing building on Monday before it is due to move to the new House complex a day later. Modi also praised reporters who covered Parliament. As we leave this House, I want to remember those media friends who have contributed to covering Parliament. They reported minute-by-minute developments in Parliament when modern technology like now did not exist. Not only did they share the news but even dug into the smallest gossip in the Parliament and shared it. YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 18, ARMENPRESS. The Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) Foreign Ministry has released a statement calling on international actors involved in the resolution of the Azerbaijan-Karabakh conflict must ensure the complete reinstatement of the operation of the Lachin Corridor, ensuring the free, safe and unimpeded movement of persons, vehicles and cargo in both directions, in line with the Trilateral Statement of 9 November 2020 and the Orders of the International Court of Justice. Below is the full statement. On 18 September 2023, around 28 tons of humanitarian aid, comprising wheat flour, medical supplies and hygiene items, were transported to Artsakh through the Lachin Corridor and the Akna (Agdam) Stepanakert road, using vehicles of the International Committee of the Red Cross. This humanitarian mission has been the result of extensive talks involving the International Committee of the Red Cross, the command of the Russian peacekeeping forces in Artsakh and international mediators, and was undertaken in response to the extremely critical humanitarian situation brought about by the complete blockade imposed by Azerbaijan. At the same time, it is important to emphasise that Artsakh continues to remain under siege, being deprived of essential gas and electricity supplies from Armenia and the ability to sustain the normal way of life of its population. It should be also stressed that, without reliable and regular deliveries of food and essential supplies, it is impossible to address the escalating humanitarian catastrophe. This humanitarian cargo delivery, amounting to less than 7% of the daily 400-ton import of goods to Artsakh before the blockade, falls significantly short of replacing the regular commercial deliveries, both in terms of volume and the diversity of essential goods needed to sustain a normal way of life and support the natural development of Artsakh. Once again, we emphasise that international actors involved in the resolution of the Azerbaijan-Karabakh conflict must ensure the complete reinstatement of the operation of the Lachin Corridor, ensuring the free, safe and unimpeded movement of persons, vehicles and cargo in both directions, in line with the Trilateral Statement of 9 November 2020 and the Orders of the International Court of Justice. Only in this case can we talk about the end of the blockade and the subsequent restoration of normal life conditions, enabling the full realisation of the individual and collective rights of the people of Artsakh, including their fundamental right to freedom of movement, access to healthcare, education and development. We remain hopeful that the collective diplomatic efforts of all involved parties will lead to the attainment of this paramount and pivotal objective. As India gets ready to embrace a new temple for democracy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi deserves accolades for recognising the need for a new Parliament and pushing forward with its execution in quick time. India hopes for a renewed democracy along with a new Parliament building. (HT Photo) The government did this, despite apprehensions from a range of well-meaning citizens. But as a new Parliament is set to host public representatives, it is clear that India did need a new building. Nostalgia for the old is understandable. But parliamentarians deserved to sit on comfortable seats, with access to modern technology. The Parliament itself needed more space given the impending delimitation of constituencies that may well see a dramatic expansion in the number of seats in the Lok Sabha in the coming decade. From safety to comfort, from space to aesthetics, Bimal Patel the remarkably accomplished architect whose stamp on Modis India is reflected from the Sabarmati promenade in Ahmedabad to the Kashi Vishwanath corridor in Varanasi has delivered yet again. But the true test of Parliament is not the beauty of its external facade or range of its internal conveniences. Its true test lies in whether the new Parliament can address the dysfunctionality that has become embedded in Indias parliament system and make the legislature an effective voice of the people, a robust check on the executive, and a forum for considered deliberation in the process of law-making. And on all these counts, recent parliamentary record has been disappointing. There is a structural reason for Parliaments relative weakness. In a parliamentary system, the constitution of the executive is contingent on the strength of the party in the legislature. Contrast this with the American system, where the legislature is distinct from the executive and its entire rationale is both to determine the executives scope of actions through laws and appropriations and keep it accountable through regular committee hearings. In the Indian case, add to the intertwined nature of the executive and legislature the power of the whip and a law that makes votes of conscience inadmissible under laws on defection. Top it up with a political context where the legislator depends on the generosity of party bosses to get a ticket and the image of the party leader to get elected in the first place. This combination of a party with an outright majority in the legislature and the relative lack of autonomy and power of independent parliamentarians has meant that the agency available to the legislature, both in terms of lawmaking and keeping the executive accountable, is limited. And that has been the case each time India has had a powerful political executive; think back to the weak role of Parliament when Indira Gandhi was in power and compare it to the cacophony of voices one heard when coalition governments were in office. But even within this constraint, which is in-built in the design of the system itself, Indias Parliament needs to do better in its new home. If the executive belongs to the ruling party, the legislature must recognise the voice of Opposition. This remains the only forum where elected representatives of the people remain free to articulate the anxieties and aspirations of their constituents, where they can be both ruthless and constructive in evaluating the executives policies, where every law and every provision of every law must go through the most careful process of deliberation to assess its implications both in committees and the full house, and where the executive has to answer questions, even if uncomfortable ones, truthfully and transparently. On all these metrics, Indias parliamentary record is showing worrying signs. Be it frequent disruptions, which close the space for informed exchanges between sides, or arbitrary decision-making by the executive in setting the legislative agenda, which shrinks the room available to the Opposition to prepare its case, there is room to improve. Be it the dilution in the role of committees, where research by PRS has shown that the number of bills that go in for committee-level deliberation has shrunk in the past decade, or the perception of partisanship of the presiding officers in both chambers , there is room to improve. Be it a measured discussion on policy and laws, including on significant ones such as the Finance Bill, or the ability to freely raise issues and demand answers from the political leadership on pressing economic and social issues, there is room to improve. Be it the Opposition constructively collaborating with the treasury benches on significant laws at the stage when laws are in the process of being conceived or the ruling party briefing top Opposition leaders quietly on sensitive national security issues to carve out and project a national consensus, there is room to improve. Be it giving a fresh lease of life to committees and making the executive truly accountable to these committees, or the political leadership taking both chambers seriously and setting an example by attending proceedings more regularly, there is room to improve. India has a new Parliament and Indias Parliamentarians deserve it. But to truly live up to their mandate, it is time for them to infuse the idea of the Parliament and the idea of democracy and accountability with fresh vigour. Back in the first flush of Indian independence thats what shaped a young India. Now, 76 years on, it is what will build the India of Amrit Kaal. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Kerala health minister Veena George on Monday said no fresh cases of the brain-damaging Nipah virus have been reported and 61 samples taken of high-risk contacts, including nurses, have tested negative. Health workers shift a man with symptoms of Nipah virus to an isolation ward at a government hospital in Kozhikode in Kerala on Saturday. (AFP) Kerala has so far confirmed a total of six cases of Nipah infection since the latest outbreak in the Kozhikode district. Two individuals lost their lives due to the virus, bringing the number of active cases down to four. Stringent measures, including contact tracing, quarantine protocols, and public awareness campaigns, have been implemented in Kozhikode to curb the outbreak's progression. Here are the latest updates on the virus: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and World Health Organisation conducted studies and it was found that nine states in India have the probability of Nipah occurrence and Kerala is one among them, George said. A total of 1,233 contacts, of the people infected, have been identified and the Kerala government has categorised them as high-risk contacts, 352, and low-risk contacts. All of them are under isolation. The state government has set up a control room to battle the virus. The Kerala government has set up 19 teams in the core committee as per the Nipah protocol, which was modified in 2021 and in 2023. While the central teams are in the field and have been surveying all the relevant locations. The results of the genomic sequencing, in order to confirm that there was no second wave of the Nipah outbreak, will be available by evening or on Tuesday, George said speaking to PTI. As per George, samples from around 36 bats have been sent to Pune's National Institute of Virology (NIV) to discover the presence of Nipah virus among mammals. The virus found in Kerala has been identified as the Indian Genotype or I-Genotype and is similar to the strain found in Bangladesh. There are two known strains of the Nipah Virus one is Malaysian and the other from Bangladesh. While the incubation period of the Nipah virus including containment and quarantine is 21 days, the Kerala government has enforced a double incubation period of 42 days since the last positive case of the virus reported. George said the situation in Kerala is under control. All the new samples tested of the contacts of the infected victims today, yesterday, and day before yesterday have come out to be negative. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON By next month, the Chinese embassy in India will have been without an envoy for a year the longest such gap in ambassadorial postings since 1976, reflecting the current downslide in relations amid the standoff on the Line of Actual Control (LAC). President Xi Jinping has appointed new envoys to Japan and the US, but there has been no word whether the post in India will be filled anytime soon (File Photo) The Chinese side is yet to request an agrement, or formal agreement, for posting a new ambassador in the embassy in New Delhi and there are no signs of movement on this issue, people familiar with the matter said on condition of anonymity. The last Chinese ambassador, Sun Weidong, completed his term on October 26 last year and was appointed one of three vice foreign ministers. In recent months, President Xi Jinping has appointed new envoys to Japan and the US, but there has been no word whether the post in India will be filled anytime soon, the people said. The development comes at a time when Xi skipped the G20 Summit hosted by India, instead sending Premier Li Qiang to represent China. It is widely believed a lack of confirmation from the Chinese side about Xis participation in the SCO Summit in July was a key reason for the meeting being held virtually. This is not a coincidence, and it is a deliberate decision that is part of a well-considered approach by China. They have appointed several ambassadors in the intervening year and the practice is to have an ambassador in residence, especially if a head of government is expected to attend two back-to-back summits hosted by India, one of the people cited above said. While it may be a matter of conjecture as to why China hasnt appointed a new ambassador, it can be fairly safe to say this is linked to the Indian sides characterisation of bilateral relations as abnormal and tense, the person said, pointing to the Chinese leaderships position that ties are on the normal track and the border issue should be put in its appropriate place in overall relations. The last time there was a gap of a year or more in the posting of a Chinese ambassador in India was in 1976. Between the border war of 1962 and the normalisation of relations in 1976, the embassy was headed by either a charge daffaires or a first secretary (for a brief period in 1972). Following Sun Weidongs departure, the embassy has been headed by charge daffaires Ma Jia. The ambassadors post in India, along with those in Japan, the US and the UK, is among the most coveted postings for Chinese diplomats since the envoy is considered at par with the rank of vice foreign minister. Both Sun Weidong and his predecessor in New Delhi, Luo Zhaohui, became vice foreign ministers. Ashok Kantha, a former ambassador to China, noted that India posted a new ambassador to Beijing, Pradeep Rawat, in March 2022 and said agrements from both sides were usually cleared speedily. This is a big missing link in the channels of communications at a time when relations are at their lowest ebb in five decades, Kantha said, pointing to the normalisation of ties in 1976. This is messaging from the Chinese side that they are not comfortable with the present state of relations, he said, adding this issue cannot be seen in isolation. The LAC standoff has taken India-China ties to the lowest point since the 1962 war and both sides have deployed about 60,000 troops each in the Ladakh sector. The Indian side has made it clear that ties cannot be normalised till peace and tranquillity is restored in the border areas. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Rezaul H Laskar Rezaul H Laskar is the Foreign Affairs Editor at Hindustan Times. His interests include movies and music. ...view detail No fresh cases of the Nipah virus were reported in Kerala on Monday as 61 samples taken of high-risk contacts including healthcare workers tested negative, state health minister Veena George said. The last Nipah positive case reported in the state was on September 15. (PTI Photo) This is the third consecutive day that no positive cases of the zoonotic virus have been reported in the state. The last positive case, that of a 39-year-old from Cheruvannur, Kozhikode, was discovered on September 15. So far, six cases of the virus have been found in the state of which two persons died while four others are under treatment. Also Read: Why and how Nipah virus spread in Kerala? What experts said The condition of all four active cases is stable including the nine-year-old boy who was on ventilator support until Saturday, officials said. Among the 61 persons who tested negative, there are healthcare workers who had treated the latest person to test Nipah positive. Another person who was a close contact with the man who died of Nipah on September 11 has also tested negative. It is a relief for the health department, said George. I also held extensive talks with central health officials today. They appreciated the measures taken by the Kerala government. One of their teams will return today. They visited all areas including hospitals, she added. The Supreme Court on Monday refused to entertain a petition filed by Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren against the summons issued to him by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with an alleged Illegal mining case, asking the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader to approach the jurisdictional high court first. The summons issued to Soren on Sunday was the fifth summons in less than three months. (HT File Photo) Why dont you go to the high court? We cant entertain it here directly. You go to the high court, a bench justices Aniruddha Bose and Bela M Trivedi told Sorens lawyer, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi. While Rohatgi said that ED proceedings against his client was a witch-hunt and that he could adduced the evidence to prove it, the bench said that the summons had to be challenged before the Jharkhand high court at the first instance. Also Read: Jharkhand CM Soren skips second ED summon, moves Supreme Court Rohatgi, on his part, added that he has also challenged the constitutional validity of sections 50 and 63 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), which were presently pending adjudication before the apex court in a separate clutch of matters. Sections 50 and 63 arm the agency with vast powers to secure statements or confessions of persons during interrogation, use it against them during trial, and even launch criminal proceedings for giving false information. Objecting to Rohatgis submissions, additional solicitor general SV Raju, representing the federal agency, said that the impugned ED provisions have already been upheld by the Supreme Court in Vijay Madanlal Chaudhary batch of cases in July 2022. The bench, however, declined to go into the issue, saying: We think everything should start at the high court...not here. It then proceeded to record in its order that Sorens plea has been dismissed as withdrawn. On Sunday, the agency issued fresh summons, asking Soren to appear on September 23. Earlier, the ED had summoned Soren to appear before it on September 18, but the CM did not appear on that day since the case was listed before the top court on the same day. The court had to push the hearing to September 18 since Rohatgi remained indisposed to argue last Friday. In November last year, Soren appeared before the ED in connection with an alleged illegal mining case in which his aide Pankaj Mishra is also an accused and is currently in judicial custody. The summons issued to Soren on Sunday was the fifth summons in less than three months. In a letter to the ED on August 14, he termed the agency action as a political conspiracy to destabilise a democratically elected government. The letter had stated that he was called to record a statement in respect of the properties owned, possessed and occupied by him. In his petition before the Supreme Court, Soren argued that aid that all efforts are being made by Centre to threaten, humiliate and intimidate political leaders, at a time when opposition parties have united to form the INDIA coalition. The summons to him, the plea stated, are meant to coerce and harass him and destabilize an elected democratic government ahead of the approaching general elections. Soren challenged the summons issued to him on August 7 followed by another one on August 18 in his petition filed on August 23. Subsequently, the ED issued summons asking the Jharkhand CM to come for questioning, but Soren refused to appear citing official engagement and the pending challenge to the ED proceedings in the top court. With the general elections approaching soon in next 7-8 months, the political atmosphere in the country has been vitiated by the ruling regime. All efforts have been made to threaten, humiliate and intimidate the political leaders, and particularly, when the opposition has united to form INDIA alliance in which petitioner and his party are vocal participant and integral part of alliance and who are not aligned with the national democratic alliance (NDA), Soren had stated. Soren and JMM are vocal participants and integral part of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, in short INDIA alliance, comprising 28 Opposition parties to unite forces against the ruling NDA led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the Centre. The ED is currently investigating more than a dozen land deals, including one related to defence land, where a group of mafia, middlemen and bureaucrats allegedly colluded to forge deeds and documents as long back as 1932. The agency had in July last year arrested Sorens aide Pankaj Mishra, who was a central committee member of JMM. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Is the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) still part of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA)? A senior AIADMK functionary, D Jayakumar on Monday said his party is not in alliance with the BJP, following the latest spat between members of the former and the latters state president K Annamalai. Ties between the Tamil Nadu BJP, led by state chief K Annamalai (left), and the AIADMK, led by EK Palaniswami (right), frayed over the formers comments on late ex-CM CN Annadurai. (ANI) The immediate provocation was Annamalais comments on CN Annadurai, one of the pillars of the Dravidian movement and the political mentor of AIADMK founder the late MG Ramachandran (who split from the DMK to form the AIADMK). To be sure, the ire of Jayakumar, the partys organising secretary was Annamalai more than the BJPs central leadership. AIADMK chief and the states former chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami (aka EPS) has previously said that decisions on the alliance and seat-sharing would involve the partys central leadership, not Annamalai. A senior AIADMK leader who asked not to be named suggested that a decision on the party continuing to be part of the NDA would be taken by Palaniswami. A senior BJP leader in the state said: Unless EPS makes a statement on the alliance, we will not take it seriously. Jayakumar was unsparing in his criticism of Annamalai. He doesnt respect alliance dharma so Im saying there is no alliance, Jayakumar told reporters in Chennai on Monday. BJP is not in alliance with the AIADMK. It will be decided during elections. This is our stand. The BJP has an identity only because of the AIADMK in the southern state. This isnt the first time Annamalai has clashed with AIADMK leaders, many of whom suspect that he wants to grow the BJP in the state at their partys expense. Reacting to Jayakumars comments, Amar Prasad Reddy, an aide of Annamalai, said the AIADMK was unable to stand the growing popularity of the BJP and its state chief. Annamalai is a principled politician, he cannot bend for corruption or wrong policies. He was only referring to some historical event, Reddy said, adding that Annamalai has also spoken highly of Annadurai. He said the BJP state chief would not retract his statement. Reddy claimed that there was a huge response across the state to Annamalais foot march. Probably this is the era where we are moving from a fake Dravidian ideology to a nationalist one. Interestingly, the AIADMK, which shares the same Dravidian ideology as the DMK has steered clear of criticising DMK minister Udayanidhi Stalins comment on sanatana dharma. The BJP leader cited above said Jayakumars comments may be the AIADMKs way of having the upper hand in seat-sharing talks. In 2019, of the 39 Lok Sabha seats in the state, the BJP, part of the AIADMK-led coalition in the state, contested five. It lost all five; but the AIADMK itself didnt fare better, winning only one seat. This time Annamalai is seeking more seats for the BJP, claiming that the Dravidian party was losing its public support. And Jayakumar pointed out that the BJP leaders has consistently insulted our leaders. BJP cadres want an alliance with AIADMK but not Annamalai. Previously, the AIADMK passed a resolution against Annamalai (in June this year) when he spoke of corruption cases against the late J Jayalalithaa, the AIADMKs former chief and chief minister of the state. We already said if he doesnt stop, we will have to reassess our alliance, Jayakumar said. The latest chapter in the spat between the allies comes shortly after EPS met Union home minister Amit Shah in Delhi. Leaders from the state BJP and AIADMK told HT that the two discussed seat-sharing in the 2024 national election. This issue is only about the seat-sharing numbers, said political analyst Raveendran Duraisamy, adding that Annamalai doesnt want to be taken for granted like his predecessors Pon Radhakrishnan and Tamilisai Soundarajan. Annamalai wants to be a tough negotiator. But AIADMK wants the state BJP unit to listen to them. They both are not able to meet halfway. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Parliament Session Highlights: Amid a lot of buzz, the special session of Parliament kicked off today, September 18. Although lists of business have been circulated by the Union government, speculations intensified after the Opposition parties claimed the Centre may bring in surprise elements during the five-day session in the Parliament. A general view of India's old parliament building(AFP) The first day of the sitting has marked the 75 years of the parliamentary journey right from the forming of the Constituent Assembly. Both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha will discuss the achievements, experiences, memories and learnings in the last 75 years. Meanwhile during the all-party meeting ahead of the session, leaders of parties across the political spectrum pushed for the passage of the Womens Reservation Bill. Some Opposition parties questioned the timing of the session and also pointed out that the circulated agenda didn't state the five-day session would be a special session. The government has given out a tentative list of legislative business that will be taken up which includes the Repealing and Amending Bill, 2023, the Post Office Bill, 2023 and the Chief Election Commissioner, Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023, the Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2023 and the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday credited the success of G20 Summit to the entire nation, saying the success is not of one person alone or a political party. Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks in Lok Sabha on the first day of the special session of Lok Sabha on Monday. (Sansad TV) Today, you have unanimously appreciated the success of G20...I express my gratitude to you. G20's success is that of 140 crore citizens of the country. It is India's success, not that of an individual or a party...It is a matter for all of us to celebrate, the prime minister said during his address to the Lok Sabha on the first day of special session of parliament. Parliament special session LIVE coverage India's power ensured consensus on G20 declaration, the PM told the Lok Sabha, also recalling the inclusion of African Union as the permanent member of the power bloc. India will be proud that when it was the president (of the G20), the African Union became its member. I cannot forget the emotional moment that when the announcement was made, African Union President said that perhaps he will break down while speaking. You can imagine the fortune India had the fortune to fulfill such a huge hopes and expectations, Modi said. It is India's strength that it (unanimous Declaration) became possible...Under your chairmanship the P20 - Summit of G20 Parliament Speakers - you announced, will have our full support, he added. During his address, the prime minister also hailed Chandrayaan 3's successful landing on the moon. Today, the achievements of all Indians are being discussed everywhere. This is the result of our united efforts during the 75 years of the history of our Parliament. The success of Chandrayaan-3 has not only made India but the world proud", Modi said. " This has highlighted a new form of India's strength which is connected to technology, science, potential of our scientists and the strength of the 140 crore people in the country. Today, I again want to congratulate our scientists, he added. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Leaders of the opposition INDIA bloc on Monday questioned the intention of the government to call a session of the Parliament at an unusual time. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Manoj Jha asserted that the session was not a special one as claimed earlier, highlighting that the government was bringing normal bills that could have waited till Winder session. RJD MP Manoj Kumar Jha.(PTI) This is not a Special Session at all. Some astrologer must have said something and the PM believes in all thatDon't say that you have no agenda. The agenda is very clear. We would like to see what the other agendas are. But there is nothing special about it, the Rajya Sabha member told ANI. Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury called the government's move absurd and said special sessions are usually called for a special agenda I have been saying from the beginning that this is quite absurd. Why the government decided to pass so many bills in this Special Session, needs to be clarified by them. Special Sessions are usually called for a special agenda and discussions are held only on that issue, but no clarity has been given by the government if this is a special session or a regular session... We are worried about the real intention of the government, he said. TMC MP Derek O'Brien said the government is clueless about whether it is a regular session or a special session. or perhaps, this is just a photo session, he added. While announcing the session, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Joshi had described it as a "special session". But the government had later made it clear that it was a regular session, the 13th session of the present Lok Sabha and 261st session of Rajya Sabha. Usually, Budget, Monsoon and Winter sessions of Parliament are held every year. The Monsoon session was held in July-August while the Winter session is due in November-December. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON A session of Parliament is set to begin Monday amid intense speculation on whether the government will spring up a surprise during the five-day sitting. On the first day of the parliament session, both houses will hold a discussion on the parliamentary journey of 75 years starting from the constituent assembly. The discussion will include achievements, experiences, memories and learnings in the 75 years of the parliamentary journey. The discussion on the parliamentary journey will be held simultaneously in both the Houses. (HT Archive) Tentative list of legislative business The government has also provided a tentative list of legislative business to be taken up during the session, including a bill that seeks to exclude the Chief Justice of India (CJI) from the panel to appoint the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners (ECs). The bill also seeks to put service conditions of the CEC and two ECs on par with the cabinet secretary and not a Supreme Court judge, as is the case now. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh, in charge of communications, has made it clear that the opposition INDIA bloc will steadfastly oppose the insidious bill. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said a total of eight bills have been listed for consideration and passage during the session. According to a recent parliamentary bulletin, bills that will be taken up for consideration and passage include The Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2023, The Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023, and The Post Office Bill, 2023, among others. At an all-party meeting on the eve of the session, floor leaders were informed that a bill on the welfare of senior citizens and three related to the SC/ST order have been added to the agenda. The unusual timing of the session has left everyone speculating about the legislative business as the government enjoys the prerogative of tabling in Parliament some new legislation or other items that might not have been part of the listed agenda. Commenting on the listed agenda, Jairam Ramesh said it is much ado about nothing and all this could have waited till the Winter session in November. the government was hiding the actual intention behind calling the session and would be "unleashed at the last moment. I am sure the legislative grenades are being kept up their sleeves to be unleashed at the last moment as usual. Parde ke peeche kuch aur hai! he said in a social media post on X (formerly Twitter). Demand for women's reservation bill Though there is no official word on any probable new legislation, several parties have demanded reviving the women's reservation bill, with the Congress even passing a resolution for it at its Hyderabad Congress Working Committee meeting on Sunday. Asked about the government's stand on the demands, Joshi said the government will take "an appropriate decision at an appropriate time". The session will move to the new Parliament building after a ceremony at the Central Hall of the existing building, According to a Lok Sabha bulletin, the function will commemorate the rich legacy of the Parliament of India and resolve to make Bharat a developed nation by 2047. Not special session While announcing the session, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Joshi had described it as "special session". But the government had later made it clear that it was a regular session, 13th session of the present Lok Sabha and 261st session of Rajya Sabha. Usually, Budget, Monsoon and Winter sessions of Parliament are held every year. The Monsoon session was held in July-August while the Winter session is due in November-December. The Budget session has a fixed time of commencement from January end of every year. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Billy Miller, who starred on The Young and the Restless and General Hospital, has died aged 43. Miller died on Friday (15 September) in Austin, Texas, his manager confirmed in a statement to Variety on Sunday (17 September). Little is known about the circumstances of his death, which came two days before his 44th birthday. The statement from Millers manager said he was struggling with manic depression when he died. Variety noted that Miller suffered from Tarsal coalition, a rare ankle condition, in his childhood. Millers acting career spanned multiple popular soap operas, beginning with his role as Richi Novak on All My Children from 2007 to 2008. He went on to win three Daytime Emmys in the role of Billy Abbott on The Young and the Restless before joining General Hospital, playing twin characters Jason Morgan and Drew Cain from 2014 to 2019. Actor Billy Miller attends the 41st Annual Daytime Emmy Awards CBS after party at The Beverly Hilton Hotel in 2014 (Getty Images) Miller also held a brief role on Suits and made an appearance in American Sniper. Outside of the acting world, Miller owned multiple bars and restaurants in the Los Angeles area. Tributes have poured in for the actor, including from an X/Twitter account for The Young and the Restless. "The daytime community mourns the loss of Billy Miller who graced Y&R with his talent for many years as Billy Abbott. Our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones, it read. If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch. If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call the National Suicide Prevention Helpline on 1-800-273-TALK (8255). This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you. The Parliament House, which will soon hand over its position as the country's hallowed legislature to a new complex inaugurated four months ago, has stood for over 96 years as a sentinel of time and a repository of India's democratic journey. The session will see the proceedings of Parliament move from the old building to the new complex in its vicinity. Opened on January 18, 1927, by Lord Irwin -- the then viceroy -- amid fanfare, the landmark has witnessed colonial rule, the Second World War, the dawn of Independence, the adoption of the Constitution, and the passage of many legislations -- some landmark and many controversial. The government on Wednesday listed a special discussion on the Parliament's 75-year journey, starting from the Samvidhan Sabha, on the first day of the five-day session beginning on September 18. The session will see the proceedings of Parliament move from the old building to the new complex in its vicinity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new complex on May 28 and expressed hope that it would become a cradle of empowerment, igniting dreams and nurturing them into reality. Several ruling party MPs and people from different walks of life, including celebrities, had praised the construction of the new complex when it was inaugurated. Once legislative businesses move into the new state-of-the-art building, India will, in many ways, turn a page. Historians and conservation architects describe the old edifice as a "repository of India's history" and its "democratic ethos", and an "architectural jewel" of Delhi. The historic building, with its circular design and an impressive colonnade of 144 creamy sandstone on the first floor, was opened at a time the new imperial capital of the British Raj -- New Delhi -- was being built at a site in the Raisina Hill area. According to archival documents and rare old images, a grand ceremony was held to mark the opening of the building, then called the Council House. The building, with a diameter of 560 feet and circumference of a third of a mile, was designed by Sir Herbert Baker who, along with Sir Edwin Lutyens, was chosen to design the new imperial capital in Delhi. According to the book "New Delhi: Making of a Capital" by Malvika Singh and Rudrangshu Mukherjee, Lord Irwin had arrived in his viceregal carriage at a pavilion set up at the Great Place (now Vijay Chowk) and then "proceeded to open the door of the Council House with a golden key, handed to him by Sir Herbert Baker." The opening of the Parliament House building, revered today as India's temple of democracy, was much talked about then in both the domestic and the foreign press. The sprawling edifice covering an area of nearly six acres is one of the most distinctive parliament buildings anywhere in the world and among the most defining and widely-recognised structures. The last legislative sitting in the building till the end of August was the Monsoon session, which concluded on August 11. The session provided 17 sittings over 23 days. The multi-chequered history of the old Parliament building will be frozen in time if the proceedings move to the new complex during the five-day session. "The Parliament House is not just an iconic building, it is a repository of history and a repository of our democracy," noted conservation architect and urban planner AGK Menon told PTI. He said the government built the new complex citing greater requirement of space in the future and added that it is part of the Central Vista redevelopment project. "But, the question is, was it really needed? Could we not have discussed and found ways to improve amenities in the old Parliament (building) and continued in it the tradition of democracy, which the building symbolises? Wide consultations should have been held before going ahead with such a project," he argued. This is a landmark building that witnessed the dawn of free India, its famed chambers heard the echoes of first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru's "Tryst with destiny" speech and where the Constituent Assembly sat, discussed and adopted the Constitution, Menon said. The Constituent Assembly had its first meeting on December 9, 1946, in the central chamber (Central Hall) and adopted the Constitution on November 26, 1949. The Constitution came into effect on January 26, 1950, signifying the birth of the Republic of India. Anil Krishna (74) recalls his late centenarian father Kewal Krishan, who was part of the drafting committee of the Constituent Assembly, and his association with the old Parliament building. "I visited Parliament as a child with my father. The two places I vividly remember is my dad's office and the Parliament canteen. We are reading that the Parliament will soon shift to the new complex, which was needed as more space and facilities were required with time," he told PTI. Krishan, who would have turned 110 in July, died a few months ago, his son said. An old sepia-toned image of a group photograph taken in February 1948 with BR Ambedkar, the architect of the Constitution, sitting in front at the centre and Krishan standing behind him is part of the family's well-preserved archives, Krishna said. Another family has preserved archival pictures associated with the Parliament and the Constituent Assembly. A group picture of the members of the Constituent Assembly, taken on the Parliament premises, was shot by AR Datt & Sons Studios, one of the oldest studios in Delhi. Studio founder AR Datt's grandson Anuj Datt told PTI, "My grandfather used a panoramic camera to capture such a large number of people in one frame." When discussions will be held on 'Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha - Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings', the legacy of the old Parliament building will, in a way, come full circle before it slips into the pages of history, handing over the baton to the new complex. The new triangular-shaped four-storey building has a built-up area of 64,500 square metres. It will also have a grand Constitution Hall to showcase India's democratic heritage, a lounge for MPs, library, multiple committee rooms, dining areas and ample parking space. Several MPs from different parties shared their thoughts on the old building and the new complex. "The old Parliament (building) holds a lot of historical significance, that is where the nation gained freedom, that is where Nehru's famous speech took place ... There are a lot of memories associated with it," the Congress' Rajeev Shukla told PTI Video. "There can't be a more beautiful Parliament (building)," BJP MP RK Singh said on the new complex. The TMC's Derek O'Brien said, "As a parliamentarian, I have found no better place in the Parliament than the Central Hall. For fellowship, for friendship, for sharing thoughts, for bonding." KC Tyagi of the JD(U) said, I prefer the older Parliament (building) more. I have been a part of it. I just came back from London and their parliament building is 200 years older than ours. So, old is gold. Prime Minister Narendra Modi opened a special session of Parliament on Monday with an emotive speech, for the one last time from the existing Parliament house, in which he paid rich tributes to the countrys democratic traditions and recalled contributions of all former prime ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Atal Bihari Vajpayee to Manmohan Singh and said the colonial-era premises will remain a source of inspiration and place of pilgrimage for all times to come. The PM Modi-led government has called a special session from September 18 to September 22. (PTI Photo) Future proceedings of Parliament will commence from a modern building complex, next to the old one, which Modi had inaugurated in May this year. It is the centrepiece of grand project to remake key British colonial-era buildings with a distinct Indian character in the heart of the national capital. We have undertaken a journey of 75 years, and as we bid goodbye to this Parliament house, we must remember that though this house was built by the colonial government, it was built by our sweat and toil, by our countrymen and with our money, Modi said. In a surprise announcement on September 1, the Modi-led government had called a special session from September 18 to September 22, which would have five sittings, offering no specific reason. Also Read: Modi cites iconic speeches of Nehru, Vajpayee, says they remain inspiring The prime minister said whether it was the Non-Aligned Movement or the G20, the country and the House has acted unanimously. G20s success is not the success of one man or one party but this entire country. India had proved the world wrong by becoming a successful democracy, Modi said. Earlier, customarily briefing the media ahead of the sessions opening, the prime minister had said that the special session was going to be short but historic. From president Kalam to Kovind to Murmu, from Atal Bihari Vajpayee to Manmohan Singh, whoever has been part of this Parliament, they have toiled to take the nation forward. Modi said leaving the current building was an emotional moment from him. Just like a family is filled with memories when they leave an old house to step into a new, our hearts are filled with emotions. Therefore, when I became an MP for the first time, I bowed my head on its doorsteps as I entered this temple of democracy for the first time, the PM said, adding: It is the faith in this house of the people which enabled a small tea-seller to come to this august house. Construction of a new parliament building began on Dec 10, 2020, when Modi laid the foundation stone and called the building an inherent part of a self-reliant India. The old parliament will be converted into a museum, the government had said at the time. Aside from being equipped with modern technology, the new parliament building has a total of 1,272 seats in its two chambers, nearly 500 more than the old one and at least four times as much space, according to the government. In a speech spanning an hour and 20 minutes, Modi struck a conciliatory note in an address that reached to out to all political ideologies and formations. He recalled various political epochs in a journey spanning 75 years, a multitude of political movements and their leaders, contributions of all prime ministers, speakers of the House and MPs. Modi said over 75 years, Parliament had become progressively more inclusive, with representatives from all communities and sections, including Dalits, backwards and women. He recalled historic legislation passed over the course of 75 years, including reducing the voting age to 18, formation of new states with unanimous approval and scrapping of Article 370 that had exempted Jammu and Kashmir from the complete applicability of the Constitution of India. He said in all, Parliament has had 7,500 members and 600 women lawmakers. Women MPs have raised our stature and filled our hearts with pride. Recounting some notable lawmakers, Modi said the late Inderjit Gupta of the CPI(M) had been a member of Parliament for 43 years, while the late S. Rahman continued to serve as an MP till the age of 93 years, while Chandramani Murmu had the record of being the youngest MP at 25. In a rare acknowledgement, Modi spoke at length about the countrys first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru and his Cabinet, as well as other Congress prime ministers. Who wouldnt clap at the mention of Pandit Nehrus contribution. Pandit Nehrus stroke of the midnight hour (speech) will always remain an inspiration. As Atal-ji said, governments will come and go, but the country has to remain forever, Modi said. Referring to Nehrus first Cabinet and its law minister BR Ambedkar, Modi said Ambedkar sought to imbibe the best practices of the world and came out with a historic Factory Act. The prime minister also recalled Nehru Cabinets water policy as a landmark. In 2019, Modi launched the Jal Jeevan mission to connect every rural household with a functional tap water. Paying tributes to Ambedkar, who led the drafting of the Constitution, Modi Ambedkar saw modern industrialization as important to the cause of social justice. There have been many industrial polices and there will be more, but the soul of it is the same as the first one. Modi mentioned all important landmarks of Indias modern history, its high points and some lows. He said Lal Bahadur Shastri, the countrys second prime minister, sowed the seeds of Green revolution from this very house, while Indira Gandhi played important role in the liberation of Bangladesh. Modi recalled the Emergency years, when democracy had been wounded. However, it is faith in this very house that people ensured a return to democracy soon. Modi also praised the courage of Narasimha Rao government and Manmohan Singh for showing a new path for the economy. The prime minister said Atal Bihari Vajpayee laid the foundation of all-round development with the Sarva Siksha Abhiyan and created a tribal affairs ministry, conducted nuclear tests. It is also a testament to our democratic traditions, that in this very house, Atal-jis government fell (after falling short of) by one vote. In the years of Manmohan Singh government, this house also saw cash for votes, Modi said referring to a scam in which cash was displayed in Lok Sabha during a trust vote In a reference to former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Modi said that MPs have attended sessions of the house as a call of duty despite facing ill-health and personal misfortunes. Even on wheelchairs, MPs have come to Parliament as a call of duty. Parliament, he said, did not stop even when the world and the country was devastated by the Covid pandemic. The successful landing of Chandrayaan 3 on near the moons south pole, Modi, said was a testament to the achievement of the countrys scientists and an achievement of the whole world. The five-day session of Parliament, which will see a transition of House proceedings to a new building, has up to eight bills scheduled for deliberation and approval. There is also speculation over the possibility of the government unveiling unexpected legislative proposals during the session. The prime minister said the greatest achievement of Parliament is that the faith of the people had only increased in it over 75 years. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Discussing India's parliamentary journey of 75 years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday recalled the famous speeches of former prime ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Modi said the echo of Nehru's tryst with destiny speech to mark India's independence from colonial rule will continue to inspire us. Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks in the Lok Sabha during a special session of Parliament, in New Delhi, Monday, Sept. 18, 2023.(PTI) The echo of Pandit (Jawahlal) Nehru's 'at the stroke of midnight' in this Parliament will continue to inspire us. And this is that very Parliament where Atal Ji said sarkaren aayengi, jayengi; partiyan banegi, bigedgi; magar ye desh rahna chahiye (governments will come and go; parties will form and dissolvel; but the country should remain), Prime Minister Modi said in Lok Sabha. Modi's speech also witnessed a sombre moment when he remembered the deaths of three former prime ministers while in office. When this Parliament lost three serving PMs -- Nehru ji, Shastri ji and Indira ji -- they were given fitting tribute, PM Modi said. From Nehru to Shastri to Vajpayee, this Parliament has seen several leaders presenting their vision of India. India began a rare special session of Parliament on Monday, with Prime Minister Modi promising that the five-day gathering of lawmakers will yield historic decisions. This session is short but based on the timing, it is very big, Modi told mediapersons, without elaborating. The Parliament is discussing its 75 years of journey, including achievements, experiences, memories and learnings. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi said the Parliament session will witness "historic decisions". This session of the Parliament is short but going by the time, it is huge. This is a session of historic decisions. A speciality of this session is that the journey of 75 years is starting from a new destination, the prime minister said. Now, while taking forward the journey from a new place...we have to make the country a developed country by 2047. For this, all the decisions of the time to come will be taken in the new Parliament building, he added. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The special session of the Parliament is likely to kickstart with a speech by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He is scheduled to speak in Lok Sabha at 11am, reported news agencies citing people aware of the matter. Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks in the Lok Sabha in the Monsoon session of Parliament, in New Delhi.(PTI) Both Houses will discuss the parliamentary journey of 75 years starting from the constituent assembly, as per a parliamentary bulletin. The discussion will include achievements, experiences, memories and learnings in the 75 years of the parliamentary journey. Today, Parliament's journey of 75 years will be discussed. It will be discussed throughout the day. It is a historic day. I think this will be the last discussion in the (Old) Parliament building, minister of state for Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal told reporters. The tentative business list for the session was announced a few days back amid criticism from the opposition parties for keeping the agenda under wraps. The tentative list of legislative business includes a bill that seeks to exclude the Chief Justice of India (CJI) from the panel to appoint the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners (ECs). The bill also seeks to put service conditions of the CEC and two ECs on par with the cabinet secretary and not a Supreme Court judge, as is the case now. War of words over agenda At an all-party meeting on the eve of the session, floor leaders were informed that a bill on the welfare of senior citizens and three related to the SC/ST order have been added to the agenda. However, the unusual timing of the session has left everyone speculating about the legislative business, with Congress suggesting that the government may spring up a surprise bill during the five-day sitting. Congress Rajya Sabha MP Pramod Tiwari said the government is looking confused, claiming that the ministers have no idea what will happen at the session. "Government is so confused. It was an agenda by a confused government. When the (all-party) meeting started then total of four points were printed, by the end of the meeting, there were eight points. Then we asked where is the agenda? They said they are sending it to us. This means that the government has called the session but they don't know, at least the ministers have no idea what will happen," he told news agency ANI. Maybe the PM comes up with a mysterious thing, this should be left to him...Overall, there was not a single topic in front of us that could not have been discussed in the previous session or could not be held in the upcoming winter session in one month. Responding to the criticism, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said, Their (Opposition) request for clarification (of agenda) has been made clear in the all-party meeting yesterday. We have already announced our agenda... I request them to attend the Parliament's journey of 75 years that will be discussed today as PM Modi has taken the oath to make India a developed country before 2047. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar on Monday said they were ready for early elections if the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government chose to call for early national polls. Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar with his deputy Tejashwi Yadav in Patna on Monday. (PTI) They want to conduct early elections across the country. The sooner they do early elections, the better for us. We are ready for it. We do not have any problem with this. We are ready all the time, Kumar said on the sidelines of a function in Patna. He said that the government has a right to conduct a parliamentary election early. Whenever they do, it will be good for us, he said. Kumar maintained that the Opposition National Development Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) is strong and will contest the elections strongly. He has spoken about early national polls over the last couple of months. INDIA constituents have resolved to contest the 2024 national elections together. The Union government this month set up a panel led by former President Ram Nath Kovind to study the one nation, one election proposal. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday stayed the Karnataka high court order invalidating the Lok Sabha election of Prajwal Revanna, the grandson of former prime minister HD Deve Gowda, and allowed him to continue as a parliamentarian albeit without any allowance and the right to vote during House proceedings. Supreme Court stays Karnataka high courts order disqualifying Prajwal Revanna as Lok Sabha MP. (HT Archive) A bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud passed the order while hearing an appeal filed by Revanna, the lone Janata Dal (Secular) member in the Lok Sabha, challenging the high courts September 1 order. The appellant shall be entitled to all privileges. He shall not draw any allowances or pay as member of Parliament, the bench, also comprising justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra said, staying the high courts ruling that invalidated Revannas election from Hassan constituency in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. The apex court permitted the JD(S) leader to attend Parliament and perform various duties as member of parliamentary committees but held that he shall not be entitled to cast vote in the House. Former attorney general KK Venugopal, who appeared for Revanna, also requested the court to allow him contest the 2024 parliamentary elections. The bench accepted the request and said: The petitioner shall be entitled to contest in the next parliamentary election, subject to any interim direction to be issued in this matter. On September 1, the Karnataka high court set aside the JD(S) leaders election while hearing two separate election petitions one filed by Revannas rival candidate from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) A Manju, and the other filed by a voter G Devarajegowda. The high court held that the allegations against the Hassan MP and his agents of wrongful disclosure of assets in the nomination paper filed ahead of the Lok Sabha polls and engaging in corrupt practices were found to be proven. Both the election petitions filed by the petitioners are allowed in part. The election of the returned candidate, Respondent No. 1, namely Prajwal Revanna alias Prajwal R, member of parliament, Constituency 16, Hassan (General), having been declared as a returned candidate dated 23.5.2019, is hereby declared as null and void, Justice Natarajan of high court said on September 1. In his verdict, Justice Natarajan also directed the Election Commission of India to take action against Revanna for poll malpractice as per the Conduct of Election Process Rules. To be sure, A Manju exited the BJP and joined the JD(S) shortly before the Karnataka assembly elections in May this year and became a legislator. Revanna was the only successful JD(S) candidate in the 2019 general elections, winning the Hassan Lok Sabha seat with a huge margin. In his petition before the top court, Revanna alleged that the high court, at the judgment stage, consolidated both the election petitions and passed a common order even as the allegations in the separate petitions were different and tried separately. The petition claimed certain findings of the HC order to be self-contradictory and passed without any cogent evidence or reasoning. Even on the alleged undervaluation of properties, being one of the charges in the election petitions, the MP said, It does not affect the right to information of the public at large/voters since the purchase value and approximate market value was duly declared by the appellant in his Form 26 affidavit, thereby ensuring transparency and awareness, which is the sole purpose of such affidavit. The election complaint claimed that Chennambika convention hall was worth at least 5 crore but was declared as worth only 14 lakh by Prajwal Revanna. Another example given was the bank balance in an account declared as 5 lakh but allegedly having a deposit of 48 lakh. On these grounds, Prajwal was accused of committing income tax fraud. Responding to this charge, Prajwals petition said, Even if the Income Tax returns were found to be payable by the appellant, that was a separate and independent cause of action falling within the domain of Income Tax authorities and not under the present jurisdiction of election petition. His father, HD Revanna is a member of Karnataka legislative assembly. The high court also directed the Election Commission to take action against Prajwals father HD Revanna and brother Suraj Revanna (an MLC) for election malpractices. HD Revanna and Suraj Revanna are named in the complaint under the Representation of Peoples Act for having committed corrupt practice at the time of the election, and also A Manju, who is also involved in corrupt practice, the HC said. The Supreme Court, meanwhile, refused to entertain a separate petition filed by HD Revanna challenging the high court order. Advocates Pramila Nesargi and Balaji Srinivasan, appearing for the election petitioners, objected to the petition, saying that HD Revanna was not part of the election petition proceedings before the HC. Srinivasan said they need to file special leave petition (SLP) to challenge the order against them. The top court agreed with this view and permitted the appeals by the MLA to be withdrawn. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the upcoming session of Parliament will witness "historic decisions". Speaking to the mediapersons outside Parliament, Prime Minister Modi said all the decisions of the time to make India a developed country by 2047 will be taken in the new Parliament building. Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks to media ahead of a session of the Parliament. This session of the Parliament is short but going by the time, it is huge. This is a session of historic decisions. A speciality of this session is that the journey of 75 years is starting from a new destination, the prime minister said. Now, while taking forward the journey from a new place...we have to make the country a developed country by 2047. For this, all the decisions of the time to come will be taken in the new Parliament building, he added. The Special Session of the Parliament will be held from September 18 to 22. During the session, parliamentary proceedings will shift from the old to the adjacent new building on September 19. In an apparent reference to frequent protests by opposition members during previous sessions, often leading to disruptions of proceedings, Prime Minister Modi requested all parliamentarians to give as much time as possible during the session with enthusiasm, adding that "there is a lot of time to cry later". "There are some moments that fill us with joy and trust, I see this session in that form," PM Modi said. Reacting to Modi's remarks, National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah said I am not cribbing, did you hear me cribbing? I am happy that the Session is there, I hope we can deliver and do something good for the country. Both Houses will discuss the parliamentary journey of 75 years starting from the constituent assembly, as per a parliamentary bulletin. The discussion will include achievements, experiences, memories and learnings in the 75 years of the parliamentary journey. Amid speculations over the agenda of the session, Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar, BJP's ally-turned-foe, said the central government wants to hold early elections in the country. "We are waiting because the sooner they hold elections, the better it is. We dont have any problem with it, he told reporters. Leaders of the opposition INDIA bloc have questioned the intention of the government to call a session of the Parliament at an unusual time. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Supreme Court on Monday fast-tracked the hearing of the disqualification petitions against Maharashtra chief minister Eknath Shinde and other Shiv Sena MLAs and directed Speaker Rahul Narwekar to list the matter before him within a week and set down a time schedule to decide disqualification pleas. Maharashtra chief minister Eknath Shinde.(PTI file) The Supreme Court told the Maharashtra Speaker to show deference and respect to the Supreme Court order of May 11 requiring him to decide on the disqualification petitions of rebel Shiv Sena MLAs within a reasonable time. The court also observed that nothing has happened in the matter except for the issuance of notice and asked the Speaker to keep the matter within a week for passing procedural directions. "In the hearing, the Supreme Court said as per its judgment released on May 11, wherein it was decided that Maharashtra assembly Speaker will take a decision regarding disqualification, no proceedings were held so far even after four months. The court kept waiting for it...Without taking much time, the disqualification proceedings should begin," Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anil Desai said on the top court's disapproval of Narwekar's delay in decision on disqualification petitions. Maharashtra Assembly Speaker reacts Narwekar, reacting to the Supreme Court order, said, The copy of the order has not yet been received. The hearing in the disqualification petitions will take its own course. The decision will be taken in a reasonable time. According to my information, the Supreme Court has recognised that the Speaker is a Constitutional position, and the court cannot intervene in his functioning, he added. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut, meanwhile, accused the Maharashtra Speaker of deliberately delaying a decision on disqualification petitions filed against MLAs from Shinde's camp by the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction. This inaction shows Narwekar is supporting the "unconstitutional" government, Raut alleged while speaking to reporters. He said the Supreme Court has made it clear that some MLAs of a political party switching to another party does not mean a split. "Despite a clear directive from the Supreme Court, the speaker is wasting time when it comes to deciding on the disqualification petitions. He is supporting the unconstitutional government in the state, Raut alleged. The Uddhav Thackeray faction of Shiv Sena had filed disqualification petitions against Shinde and other MLAs, including some cabinet ministers. We will mention these issues before the Supreme Court and hopefully we will get justice, said Raut. He also trained guns on ministers and leaders controlling sugar mills in Maharashtra. The Rajya Sabha member said he has written to Central investigation agencies several times about such malpractices. "The Pravara sugar mill controlled by Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil (state revenue minister from BJP) is facing a corruption charge of 200 crore while the sugar mill controlled by Rahul Kul (BJP legislator) is facing a corruption charge of 500 crore. Even the case of Jarandeshwar sugar mill (linked to Deputy CM Ajit Pawar) is similar, Raut claimed. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Bengaluru: The state deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar has expressed his displeasure over the demand made by Karnataka cooperation minister KN Rajanna from the Siddaramaiah camp. (PTI) The state deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar has expressed his displeasure over the demand made by Karnataka cooperation minister KN Rajanna from the Siddaramaiah camp to appoint three deputy chief ministers in Karnataka. This has kicked off a controversy within the ruling party . The state health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao entered the fray by praising Siddaramaiahs performance and suggesting that he should continue as chief minister for the next five years, intensifying the controversy. Roa said the Siddaramaiah is doing a good job and the decision on him continuing as chief minister for the next five years. On Monday, DK Shivakumar, hinting displeasure, said that hes pleased that an MLA has proposed having three deputy chief ministers. Rajanna on September 16 suggested that the Congress high command consider appointing deputy chief ministers from three distinct communities: Veerashaiva-Lingayat, SC/ST, and minority communities. Everyone should be happy. I was appointed (as the deputy chief minister) by the chief minister on the advice of the governor. So, the chief minister should answer these questions, said Shivakumar. When questioned about why such controversies are arising just before the Lok Sabha elections, Shivakumar deflected the queries, insisting that they should be directed at the chief minister. I dont know why such proposals are coming up. You should ask the chief minister. Whoever (Rajanna) saying whatever (demand for three DyCM) should be asked this, adding that in the past few days, he has been busy with strengthening the party, particularly in Telangana. Party insiders have speculated that Rajannas controversial statement was in response to DK Shivakumar and his supporters remaining silent when senior leader BK Shivakumar made derogatory comments about chief minister Siddaramaiah on September 9. BK Shivakumar had insinuated that Siddaramaiah, who wears a Hublot watch and a dhoti, cannot truly claim to be a socialist leader. When asked if Rajannas statement, coming from someone close to Siddaramaiah, is a response to the Shivakumar faction staying quiet during BK Hariprasads provocative statements against Siddaramaiah, DK Shivakumar denied the existence of any factions within the Congress party. You have lost your mind. There are no factions in the party. In my entire career, I have not supported any factions either. I could have created so-called factions in my career but I only believe in the Congress faction, said Shivakumar. In response to media inquiries about cooperation minister Rajannas plan to write to the partys High Command advocating for three deputy chief ministers, chief minister Siddaramaiah asserted that the high command had already determined that one deputy chief minister would suffice. Regarding Rajannas suggestion to appoint three more deputy CMs from different communities, Siddaramaiah on September 17 indicated that the high command would make the final decision. Ultimately, the high command will take a decision on it. He (Rajanna) has expressed only his opinion. The high command has already appointed one deputy CM saying one is enough. If Rajanna wants to discuss it with the high command, let him do it, he said. Meanwhile, Karnataka health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao weighed in, saying that the Congress high command would decide whether Siddaramaiah should serve as chief minister for the full five-year term. Rao commended Siddaramaiahs performance. Congress high command will decide whether CM Siddaramaiah will be CM for five years or not. He is doing good things, and we are all with CM Siddaramaiah, he said. Siddaramaiah was chosen as chief minister after a power struggle with Karnataka Congress chief DK Shivakumar, following numerous meetings convened by the partys high command. In May of this year, Karnataka Minister MB Patil had stated that Siddaramaiah would complete a full five-year term as chief minister, dismissing any proposals for power-sharing. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Kochi: Gireesh Babu, a prominent social and a Right To Information (RTI)activist, who waged legal challenges in several cases of corruption in Kerala, was found dead at his home in in Kalamassery district of Kochi on Monday, officers familiar with the matter said. The activist, who died at the age of 45, was undergoing a treatment. Gireesh Babu (HT Photo) Babu was unresponsive when found by his wife on Monday morning at around 6:45 am. The room he was sleeping in was bolted from the inside and had to be pried open by family members and neighbours. We have filed a case of unnatural death. After inquest, the body was taken for postmortem at the Kalamassery Medical College hospital. Postmortem has confirmed that he died of cardiac arrest, a senior police officer, seeking anonymity, said. A neighbour told reporters, He had a swelling in the brain and he was supposed to undergo a surgery. He was undergoing treatment in connection with it. The activist had filed public interest litigation (PILs) in court in connection with cases like the corruption over the construction of the Palarivattom flyover in Kochi in which former IUML minister VK Ibrahim Kunju is an accused. He had also petitioned the courts with respect to the alleged siphoning of funds in the name of disaster relief in the state. Most recently, Babu had filed a plea seeking a vigilance inquiry into alleged unexplained transactions between a mining company named Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited (CMRL) and Veena T, an entrepreneur and daughter of chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan. When the Muvattupuzha Vigilance court dismissed his plea, he had approached the high court. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Vishnu Varma Vishnu Varma is Assistant Editor and reports from Kerala for the Hindustan Times. He has 10 years of experience writing for print and digital platforms and has worked at The New York Times, NDTV and The Indian Express in the past. He specialises in longform reportage at the intersections of politics, crime, social commentary and environment. ...view detail Tom Pegg had just returned from the holiday of a lifetime when he was struck down with the rare Guillain-Barre disease (Hollie Pegg) A man has been left paralysed from the face down after contracting a rare auto-immune disease after returning from a dream holiday in Bali. Real estate agent, Tom Pegg, 23, who is originally from Cheshire, developed an upset stomach a common condition for travellers returning from the island upon returning to his Dubai home in June. Over the next five days, his symptoms worsened and his eye started to swell, followed by his throat. He went to hospital where doctors suspected he had suffered an allergic reaction and gave him an antihistamine injection. But two days later, his best friend sought emergency care as both his eyes swelled shut, he struggled to breathe and couldnt talk. He returned to Al Qaassimi Hospital where he was diagnosed with Guillain-Barre, a rare disease that causes the body to attack itself and shut down. The family raised over 100,000 so Tom could return to the UK to be treated (Hollie Pegg) His sister Hollie Pegg, 28, a beauty therapist, also from Cheshire, said: It has been really scary, I had never heard of the disease in my life. My brother is a very charismatic, charming, laid-back guy. Hes gone from being a fit, healthy, fun-loving guy to being frail he looks like a little boy. Its such a horrendous disease that happens so quickly and out of the blue. Its put my brothers life on hold. She said her brother has a severe case of the disorder which has led him to be paralysed from the face down. He is learning to walk again, but it is not yet known how long this will take. Guillain-Barre usually develops after an infection with the immune system attacking the bodys nervous system rather than the germs that have entered the body. According to the NHS website, most people recover within a year but one in five patients will face long-term problems and it can be deadly. Mr Pegg was put into an induced coma for five days while his family father Adam Pegg, 56, and sister flew out to be by his side. Their mother Julia Royle, 56, was unable to join them as she is battling stage three breast cancer and is unable to fly. Story continues The family has now raised over 100k to fly Mr Pegg home to be treated at the University of North Staffordshire Hospital. Julia, who is battling cancer, was reunited with her son when he returned to the UK (Hollie Pegg) Ms Pegg added: Having Tom home is a great distraction for my mum, she is so relieved and is seeing him every day. Mr Pegg is slowly recuperating as he starts the lengthy process of learning to walk and talk again. Nobody knows how long his recovery will take so far, he has been in hospital for around nine weeks. Ms Pegg said he had also reacted positively to plasma exchange treatment a procedure that sees blood filtered to remove harmful antibodies attacking the nerves and his limbs are working again. He has also regained the use of his eyes after temporarily losing his sight. Mr Pegg moved out to Dubai from Cheshire in January and had just embarked on his dream life in the sun. His sister said his prognosis is not yet known but her Mr Pegg is determined to get back on his feet. She added: Hes managing to get out of bed for short periods of time but hes still very weak and on oxygen. He has a tracheotomy in his throat so he is unable to swallow and speak, and he cant breathe through his mouth or nose. Hollie is hopeful her brother will return to his cheeky chappy self (Hollie Pegg) He is fully aware of whats going on and he still has his sense of humour he can now see so can type on his phone to talk to his friends but he cant move his face. We have no idea how long this is going to take so we are taking baby steps. He is the strongest, most determined person I have ever met. Ganesha Chaturthi was celebrated with pomp and fervour across the state on Monday, as people flocked temples and installed idols with grandeur. Sri Sathya Sai Ganapathy temple decorated with fifty lakhs coins and more than one crore currency notes on the occasion of Ganesha Chaturthi festival at J.P. Nagar in Bengaluru Monday. (PTI) A temple in Bengaluru has been decorated with currency notes and coins worth nearly 3 crore. The Sri Sathya Ganapathy Temple in Bengalurus JP Nagar has been known for their unique way of decorating the temple during Ganesh Puja festivities every year. This time they decorated the temple using hundreds of coins and currency notes ranging from 10, 20, 50 to 500 denominations. The temple used currency notes worth 2.18 crore and coins worth 70 lakh for decoration. READ | Ganesh Chaturthi 2023: 8 famous Ganesha temples in India A team of 150 individuals spent a month, meticulously executing the elaborate decoration, ensuring it was equipped with security measures including CCTV surveillance. Mohan Raju, one of the trustees of the Trust, expressed his joy at the positive reception this unique display has received. Every year we celebrate Ganesha Chaturthi in a unique way. Last year also we decorated the temple in a special style. This time, we decorated the whole temple with bunch of Indian currency notes by making garlands and ornaments for lord Ganesha. All are original currency notes. Devotees are coming to have darshan since morning, he said. In order to ensure smooth Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations across the state capital, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has set up close to 418 mobile tankers for immersion of Ganesha idols. Another 39 kalyanis at lake beds have been readied to receive idols. The civic body has also established 63 single-window clearance stations to receive and approve permission for Ganesha pandals. READ | BBMP imposes meat ban at Bengaluru on Ganesh Chaturthi. Details The BBMP has also banned the sale and slaughter of meat today as the city celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi. The BBMPs animal advisory board has issued the guidelines to all meat shop owners. The civic body has also warned not to collect money from people forcefully for the purpose of celebrations. The demand for clay idols has also increased with customers opting for eco-friendly options over plaster of paris (PoP) ones in several places. In Bengaluru, the BBMP has imposed a strict ban on the sale and manufacture of idols that are made with PoP, chemical dyes and thermocol. In Mandya, there has been a huge demand for Ganesha idols made from jaggery, vendors said. The idols range from half-a-feet to 2 feet and are priced between 500 to 2,000. Apart from Mandya, there is also demand for idols made from jaggery in Davanagere, Mysuru, Hassan, Chamarajanagar, Tumakuru and Chikkamagaluru. There is a demand for Ganesha idols across the state. We are making as many as possible due to shortage of molds. Last year, we made only 500 idols. This time, we aim to sell 1,500 idols, president of Mandya jaggery farmers producers company, Karasavadi Mahadeva, said. READ | Tradition meets Splendour: Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations set to amaze Lucknow In Mysuru, special puja was performed to the nine Dasara elephants camped at the Mysore Palace, on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. The elephants were decorated and fed a variety of foods. In a display of communal harmony in Belagavi, the Muslim community has postponed Eid Milad to make way for the Ganesh procession. Muslims, along with the Anjuman-e-Islam, has decided to celebrate Eid Milad on October 1, instead of September 28, which coincides with the 10th day of Ganesh Chaturthi procession. Raju Seth, President of Anjuman-e-Islam and MLA from Belagavi North constituency said, Eid Milad has been postponed to convey a positive message to the society. We will actively participate in the Ganesh Chaturthi processions and extend invitation to the members of the Hindu community to join our festival. Meanwhile, pro-Hindu organisation Hindu Janajagruti Samiti on Monday initiated a campaign, urging members of the Hindu community to boycott Halal products during the festival in Bengaluru. The volunteers of the organisation adopted a door-to-door campaign and also distributed pamphlets. Two of the four leopards, that were captured after a six-year-old girl was mauled to death on the night of August 11 on the trekking pathway of Tirumala hills in Andhra Pradeshs Tirupati district, had not killed the girl, forest officials familiar with the matter said. The forest officials released one of them in Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary and shifted another leopard to Indira Gandhi Zoo in Visakhapatnam (HT Archives) Tirupati divisional forest officer (DFO) Satish Reddy said in a statement that a DNA test report from Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) confirmed that these two leopards had not mauled the girl to death. One leopard was only 15-months-old and had no capacity to hunt, while another leopard had not developed strong teeth to maul a human being to death. The forensic tests also found that there were no traces of human flesh in their system, Reddy said. After ascertaining that the two leopards were not man eaters, the forest officials released one of them in Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary and shifted another leopard to Indira Gandhi Zoo in Visakhapatnam. The two leopards, that were suspected to be the one that mauled the girl to death, were captured by the forest officials on August 14 and 17. The DNA test reports of the remaining two leopards are awaited, the DFO said. On August 11, a six year old girl, named Lakshita, was attacked by a leopard while she was walking to Tirumala along the Alipiri footpath. Her body was found behind Lord Narasimha Swamy temple the next morning. Subsequently, the forest department authorities laid traps to capture the leopards, to find the beast that killed the girl. Earlier in the last week of June, the authorities captured another leopard, who had attacked and injured a 11-year-old boy. In all, five leopards were trapped by the forest officials in a span of two months, the forest official said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON 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 New Delhi India accounts for the second largest cohort of international students in the UK after China with over 120,000 students being enrolled in 2022-23. The considerable overlap between Indias National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the UK governments international education strategy could further strengthen these ties, said Steve Smith, the UK Governments International Education Champion, on the sidelines of the inaugural session of the two-day India-UK Higher Education Conference in Delhi. (File) The UK will continue with its annual target of attracting at least 600,000 international students with a focus on bolstering collaboration with Indian universities by offering dual degrees and joint research programmes, British officials familiar with the development said on Monday. India accounts for the largest cohort of international students in the UK with 16,185 visas being issued between April and June this year. The considerable overlap between Indias National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the UK governments international education strategy could further strengthen these ties, said Steve Smith, the UK Governments International Education Champion, on the sidelines of the inaugural session of the two-day India-UK Higher Education Conference in Delhi. It is my remit to grow the number of international students and there is no limit on the number of international students coming. I think there is a lot of noise at the moment. But the key point is the target remains at least 600,000 students a year to come to the UK. And we are meeting that and thats not changed. So theres a lot of noise about it. I do realize that but the UK governments target remains the same, he added. The remarks come days after spokesperson for UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reportedly told media that Britain has no plans to change its approach to reducing net migration in order to help secure a free trade deal (FTA) with India. The prime minister believes that the current levels of migration are too high ... To be crystal clear, there are no plans to change our immigration policy to achieve this free trade agreement and that includes student visas, the spokesperson told journalists on September 7, according to news agency Reuters. On Monday, British Councils India director, Alison Barrett, said that the UK is really excited about having talented young people from many countries around the world come to the UK. We are excited that they choose the UK as a destination. And, it is something that we want to continue encouraging, she said. The British Council is looking forward to convening university leaders from the UK and India yet again this year. The India-UK Higher Education Conference will serve as an opportunity to build upon the constructive discussions and initiatives from last year, which have further strengthened educational partnerships between the two countries, Barrett said. She also said that this year the British Council will be announcing the Industry Academia grants which will support closer industry links in curriculum and course development that will enhance the capacity to create future-ready, job-ready graduates. The UKs focus on India comes at a time when France has announced plans to welcome 30,000 Indian students by 2030 and Germany has also increased the intake of Indian students, with 2022-23 marking an increase of 26%. The Conference is being organised by the British Council as a part of the largest-ever higher education delegation from the UK to India comprising 31 higher education representatives from the UK, visiting the country for 5 days from 18-22 Sep. Smith said that the focus of the delegation is to deepen the already extensive relations between UK and Indian institutions. This is the third such delegation and the largest ever and this time, we are focused on partnering UK institutions with Indian institutions. The future of education worldwide is moving more and more towards the international side, rather than just the bilateral. So what weve got here is a group of institutions, all of whom wish to link with fellow institutions in India.This trip is about deepening and its making it two way. Its not about students coming to the UK, it is also about building partnerships here, he said. A total of 83 higher education institutions from the UK are already collaborating with their fellow institutions in India either in the form of offering dual under the University Grants Commission (UGC) 2022 regulations, or research collaborations. On the possibility of a UK-based university being willing to step-up campus in India under the upcoming UGC guidelines, Smith said that they will have to get the regulations sorted on both sides before making any decision. We are also very interested, by the way, in the prospect of Indian institutions coming into the UK, especially the IITs. I hope its that internationalization model, which works both ways. So, we are certainly open to the idea of branch campuses, and there will be some institutions here that will have it at the back of their mind, he said. Two top IITs are already setting up their campuses abroad, including IIT-Delhi in Abu Dhabi and IIT-Madras in Zanzibar. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Fareeha Iftikhar Fareeha Iftikhar is a Special Correspondent with the national political bureau of the Hindustan Times. She tracks the education ministry, and covers the beat at the national level for the newspaper. She also writes on issues related to gender, human rights and different policy matters. ...view detail Union home minister Amit Shah intensified the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) poll pitch for Chhattisgarh as he released an aarop patra (charge sheet) against the chief minister Bhupesh Baghel-led government, accusing it of indulging in corruption and allowing Left Wing Extremism (LWE) to flourish. Union home minister Amit Shah releases charge sheet against CM Bhupesh Bhagel-led government. (ANI) Addressing a rally in Raipur, Shah said the states Congress government has broken all records of corruption. The state was governed by the BJP for 15 years, during which we worked to fulfil Atal Bihari Vajpayees dream of a developed Chhattisgarh. But the Congress, which came to power in 2018, formed a government of loot, corruption, scams, and breaches of promises, due to which development stalled, he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X (formerly Twitter) that the arop patra exposed the misgovernance of the Congress government. This charge sheet of the public against the present government of Chhattisgarh exposes the plight of the state in every field. The BJP is determined to once again connect the Dalits, tribals, and the underprivileged of this glorious state with the mainstream of development, he said. During his speech, Shah alluded to alleged scams related to coal, liquor, and online betting, which central agencies are probing, as he accused Baghel of turning the state into an ATM for the Congress brass in Delhi. Chhattisgarh has been led astray from the path of development by a government embroiled in corruption, scandals, and favouritism towards the Delhi darbar, he said. Baghel has rejected the corruption charges and maintained that the BJP was using the central probe agencies to gain an advantage before the elections. The senior BJP leader accused the Congress of doing little to protect the rights of the tribals and allowing religious conversion to take place in the state. People have to decide whether they want the Baghel government that talks about protecting the rights of tribals even as religious conversions flourish under it, or the BJP government, which protects and preserves the tribal culture, he added. Rejecting Shahs allegations Congress spokesperson RP Singh said, Union home ministers accusations are baseless and manipulated. A senior politician should not be speaking like this. It is fact that the Centre has given 61 national awards to Chhattisgarh government for its development works...I think he is just misleading [people]. At a separate event in Mahasamund district, the Union minister also targeted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who was also in the state on the same day, saying that merely dancing with members of the tribal community does not result in their welfare. Rahul Baba, merely dancing with tribal members by visiting tribal-dominated areas will not ensure their welfare. Congress leaders have snatched land from tribals. For years, they [Congress] allowed LWE (Left Wing Extremism) to flourish. Now Modi has worked to put the menace to an end, he said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Ritesh Mishra State Correspondent for Chhattisgarh. Reports Maoism, Politics, Mining and important developments from the state. Covered all sorts of extremism in Central India. Reported from Madhya Pradesh for eight years. ...view detail The Union Cabinet on Monday evening approved a Constitution amendment bill to provide reservation for women in the national and state legislatures, officials familiar with the matter said, paving the way for the introduction of the landmark legislation in the ongoing special session of Parliament. HT Image Reserving seats for women in Lok Sabha and state assemblies is a decades-long demand to bolster the number of female lawmakers, but previous attempts have stumbled in Parliament due to deep political divisions. Led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Cabinet met in the Parliament House annexe around 6.30pm for nearly 90 minutes, departing from its usual practice of meeting on Wednesday. Some Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) functionaries said that the new bill whose contours are not yet known will not be identical to the last iteration of the bill in 2010, and might expand the scope of reservation beyond the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. In the 2010 bill that was passed only by the Rajya Sabha, there was also no provision for subcategories of castes within the womens quota for example, separate sub-divisions for scheduled castes and scheduled tribes within the womens quota a key demand of many regional parties. The demand for increasing the representation of women in legislatures through quotas is at least three decades old but has proved a politically and legally fraught process. Ahead of the 2024 general elections, the bill is a significant political step by the NDA but the modalities (and the mechanism of implementing the quota) will be important to gauge its efficacy and impact. Previous attempts to institute grassroots reservations in panchayati raj institutions yielded mixed results while some women found themselves empowered in taking political decisions about their village, others found their democratic power usurped by male relatives who installed their wives, sisters and mothers as political proxies. This experience also held clues that quotas might be a welcome sign to signal political intent, womens empowerment should encompass structural improvements in education, health and economic indices that need long-term investment and planning. Since 1996, several attempts have been made to legalise reservation for women in legislatures but all attempts have failed in the face of staunch opposition by a number of parties. In 2010, the last time such an attempt was made, the then United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government passed a bill to reserve one-third of seats in the national and state Houses in the Upper House but couldnt bring it in the Lower House under pressure from allies. Eventually, the bill lapsed. This time, the bill is likely to see a smooth passage through Parliament. The ruling National Democratic Alliance, its supporter Biju Janata Dal and key opposition parties such as the Congress, Trinamool Congress, Bharat Rashtra Samithi and Left have all publicly voiced their support for womens reservation. Together, the bill is likely to enjoy the support of at least 431 members in the Lok Sabha and 175 in the Rajya Sabha. In the Lower House, 131 of the 543 seats are reserved for scheduled castes and scheduled tribes. There is no such reservation in the Upper House. With four days left in the session, the Opposition is expecting that the bill might be brought latest by Wednesday. Parliamentary officials added that on Tuesday, no legislative business is expected in both Houses and the Chandrayaan-3 mission is likely to be discussed. On Wednesday and Friday, the government is expected to push its legislative agenda, said a senior leader, requesting anonymity. Hours after the meeting ended, Union minister of state for food processing and Jal Shakti, Prahlad Singh Patel, confirmed the development. Only the Modi government had the moral courage to fulfil the demand for womens reservation. Which was proved by the approval of the cabinet. Congratulations Narendra Modi ji and congratulations to the Modi government, he said on X. He later deleted his post. When brought to Parliament, the bill will require an amendment to the Constitution and can become law if it is passed by a two-thirds majority in both Houses, and meets the approval of at least 50% states. In the UPA era, The Constitution (One Hundred and Eighth Amendment) Bill, 2008 was passed only in the Rajya Sabha. The bill also has the potential to divide the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance. Outfits such as Samajwadi Party, Janata Dal (United) and Rashtriya Janata Dal who had opposed earlier iterations of the bill might push for sub-quotas for caste-marginalised communities. PM Modis Cabinet has struck a massive blow in favour of womens empowerment by approving the womens reservation bill providing for 1/3 representation for women in Parliament and the legislative assemblies, Rajya Sabha MP Mahesh Jethamalani said on X. The move came hours after Modi hailed the contribution of women parliamentarians during his speech opening the special session of Parliament. He made a point to identify two women Speakers of the Lok Sabha and said that the number of women representatives was approximately 600. Outside the House before the session, Modi had said that the five-day session may be small in duration but a big occasion. It is a session of historic developments, said Modi, asking all members of the House to give maximum time to the session. After the Cabinet meeting, BJP chief JP Nadda met Union ministers and some parliamentarians at his residence, leaders aware of the matter said. Among those present were information and broadcasting minister Anurag Thakur and education minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the leaders said. The PM is expected to brief women MPs on the contours of the bill on Tuesday, said one the leaders cited above. The idea of reserving seats for women is also backed by the BJPs ideological mentor, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Last week at a meeting of the Sangh attended by heads of affiliates including Nadda, the Sangh backed the idea and said women should play a key role in all sectors. Minutes after the cabinet meeting, the Congress tried to take the credit for its earlier push for women reservation. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh posted Rahul Gandhis 2018 letter asking Modi to bring the women reservation bill and quoted Gandhis tweet that said, Our PM says hes a crusader for womens empowerment? Time for him to rise above party politics, walk-his-talk & have the womens reservation bill passed by Parliament. Ramesh said womens reservation was a longstanding demand of the Congress. We welcome the reported decision of the Union Cabinet and await the details of the bill. This could have very well been discussed in the all-party meeting before the special session, and consensus could have been built instead of operating under a veil of secrecy, he said. Dramatic scenes had ensued in the Rajya Sabha when the bill was being debated in 2010. Marshals had to be called to remove RJD members from the House as they resorted to violent protests. Copies of the bill were torn as Hindi-belt regional parties were vehement in their demand for caste-based sub-quotas. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Saubhadra Chatterji Saubhadra Chatterji is Deputy Political Editor at the Hindustan Times. He writes on both politics and policies. ...view detail ABOUT THE AUTHOR Smriti Kak Ramachandran Smriti covers an intersection of politics and governance. Having spent over a decade in journalism, she combines old fashioned leg work with modern story telling tools. ...view detail Ganesh Chaturthi is the day that marks the birth of lord Ganesha. Representing new beginnings, the ten-day festival begins from tomorrow. Not just Maharashtra, which celebrates the festival with great pump and show, people from parts of India brings bappa home. Its time they decorate their houses and offer the best bhog to lord Ganesha- the god of good fortune, wisdom and prosperity. Flowers can instantly elevate the premises. Use genda balls as mini chandeliers and rose to add fragrance. This year, use DIY hacks and to deck up your place. We speak to some experts and here are their suggestions: 1. Use natural materials that reflect the purity is a great way to get started. Use ornate wooden platters to offer bhog, brass thali for pooja and offering and decorate corners with cane and flowers. Strategically placing glass vases to amp the decor can infuse the space with vibrancy and purity. 2. Turn dried flowers into organic colours and utilize them during festivities. Used candles can be decorated and be placed in glass lamps to lighten up the area. 3. Use genda balls as mini chandeliers. Conversely, delicate roses can add a soft touch of fragrance and act as a base for the idol to be seated. Larger flowers can be placed in ornate glass vases on the sides to tie the whole look in a seamless thread. 4. Used lamps and candles wrapped in delicate flowers can be made into mini bouquets to decorate the space. This tip is for a minimalist approach. 5. Glass jars can be turned into vases to hold flower arrangements. Hand-painting them with vibrant shades of sunshine, yellows, and reds can instantly brighten any corner. 6. Use old transparent dupattas of multiple colours and make a stylish cluster. Add some fairy lights on it. It would give a very subtle feel. With inputs from Ayush Baid, founder, ellementry; Brijesh Bansal, founder, Stone Art and Janavi Javeri, Interior Stylist and Founder, Walls and Things. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON For the third time in five years, the brain-damaging Nipah virus has surfaced again in the Kozhikode district of Kerala, leading the state health department to declare a health alert after two unnatural deaths were reported, followed by four high-risk contact cases with a 9-year-old on ventilator support. Though the patients are receiving medical care and a significant improvement has been observed in the 9-year-old boy who has now been removed from ventilator support, test results of more samples are awaited hence, health experts insist precautions. Nipah virus outbreak: Watch out for these 3 risk factors (Photo by Twitter/islantstudio) In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Harish Chafle, Consultant Intensivist and Chest Physician at Global Hospitals in Parel Mumbai, explained that Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus, which means it can be transmitted from animals to humans. According to him, Nipah virus infection can lead to a range of symptoms, including: 1. Fever 2. Headache 3. Fatigue 4. Muscle Pain 5. Respiratory Distress 6. Encephalitis (Inflammation of the Brain) Highlighting that in severe cases, Nipah virus infection can progress to a coma within 24-48 hours and can be fatal, Dr Harish Chafle cautioned against the primary risk factors and causes that include - 1. Animal Reservoirs: Fruit bats are considered the natural reservoir of Nipah virus. Direct or indirect contact with these bats, their excretions or saliva can lead to transmission to humans. 2. Consumption of Contaminated Food: Consumption of fruits or juices contaminated with bat saliva or urine can result in infection. 3. Human-to-Human Transmission: Once a person is infected, Nipah virus can also spread through close contact with infected individuals, especially in healthcare settings. He added, As of my last update in September 2021, there is no specific antiviral treatment for Nipah virus infection. Dr Harish Chafle suggested taht supportive care is crucial, including: Isolation: Patients should be isolated to prevent further transmission. Patients should be isolated to prevent further transmission. Symptomatic Treatment: Managing fever, pain, and other symptoms can help make the patient more comfortable. Managing fever, pain, and other symptoms can help make the patient more comfortable. Intensive Care: Severe cases may require intensive care, including mechanical ventilation for respiratory distress. Severe cases may require intensive care, including mechanical ventilation for respiratory distress. Experimental Treatments: Some experimental treatments and antiviral drugs have been explored, but their effectiveness is not well-established. He concluded, It's important to consult with healthcare experts and organizations for the most up-to-date information on Nipah virus, especially regarding any developments in treatment or prevention strategies. For the latest information on Nipah virus, I recommend reaching out to relevant health authorities, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and local healthcare providers or institutions for expert guidance specific to your region. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! The Economic Survey 2017-18 has acknowledged the abysmally low proportion of elected womens representatives in Lok Sabha and the legislative assemblies. However, the survey also notes the success of womens reservation in the three-tier Panchayati Raj institutions. In spite of wide speculation and relentless demands by womens groups and the main Opposition Congress party, the womens reservation bill was not tabled by the NDA government in the recently-concluded budget and winter sessions of Parliament. Evidence from randomised evaluations in both Rajasthan and West Bengal have found that women leaders invested more in public goods preferred by women(Samir Jana/HT) Central to the bill is the idea that increasing womens participation in decision-making is intrinsic to strengthening womens empowerment as enshrined by equality of rights and freedoms in the Preamble and Constitution of India. Evidence from randomised evaluations in both Rajasthan and West Bengal by researchers affiliated to the Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL) have found that despite the handicaps women leaders might face in terms of education and experience, they invested more in public goods preferred by women suggesting that reservation for women had important effects on local policy decisions in the reserved gram panchayats. The bill, in discussion over the last two decades, proposes to amend the Constitution to reserve 33% of all seats for women in the Lok Sabha and all legislative assemblies. According to the Geneva-based Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), globally India ranks in the bottom quarter, 148th out of 193 UN member nations, when it comes to the proportion of elected women representatives in Parliament. Even our neighbours, Pakistan (20.7%), Bangladesh (20.3%) and Nepal (29.9%) have higher representations of women in parliament. The supporters of the bill argue the need to pass the bill for ensuring affirmative action, also backed by UN Women in 2017. Critics claim that reserving seats for women goes against merit-based nomination. Another common criticism is that these elected women will not have real power and will act on behalf of a male decision-maker. Male elected representatives have often criticised the bill, arguing that legislative positions will go to women at the cost of certain qualified men losing out. However, evidence from a randomised evaluation by J-PAL affiliates in West Bengal shows that having female elected leaders in gram panchayats raise the aspirations that parents have for their girls and also the aspirations teenage girls have for themselves. An alternative to womens reservation is the idea of ensuring reservation within political parties. Countries like Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Sweden, and Norway etc, reserve seats for women within the political parties, but do not have quotas for women in Parliament. Similarly, another alternative is introducing dual-member constituencies, which means constituencies, instead of reserving seats for women, will nominate two members, one being a woman. However, lack of rigorous evidence on the efficacy of these alternatives has limited the scope for adoption of these practices worldwide. Results from evaluations in both Rajasthan and West Bengal showed that the presence of a female elected leader also reduces the gender gap in adolescent educational attainment and results in girls spending less time on household chores. Furthermore, gram panchayats with elected women leaders invested more in public goods that women cared about, such as drinking water, public health, sanitation, primary education, and roads, and the measured quality of these goods was at least as high as in the non-reserved gram panchayats. Another study showed that reservation for women in gram panchayats not only led to a decrease in bias among voters against women candidates, but also resulted in a subsequent increase in the percentage of female local leaders contesting and winning elections. The recently-constituted Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh state assemblies demonstrate that in the absence of a constitutional mandate, women continue to be left out in the electoral process. Had the womens reservation bill been a reality, both Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh could have had 60 and 22 elected women representatives in their respective assemblies. Both political commitment and rigorous evidence is necessary to deliberate and debate this legislation and ensure its passage in Parliament leading to a mandated presence of 180 elected women representatives in the Lok Sabha and nearly 15,100 elected representatives across all legislative assemblies, thereby bridging the critical gender gap in political and legislative decision-making. Sohini Mookherjee and Arindam Banerjee work with J-PAL South Asia at IFMR The views expressed are personal Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! Scientists have discovered that the lancet liver fluke parasite, notorious for turning ants into "zombies" by manipulating their brains, is even more cunning than previously believed. Researchers from the University of Copenhagen in Denmark have found that this parasite has a remarkable ability to get infected ants to avoid the sun's lethal rays when temperatures rise, allowing them to survive longer and spread the parasite further. Scientists have discovered that the lancet liver fluke parasite, notorious for turning ants into "zombies" by manipulating their brains, is even more cunning.(University of Copenhagen) The study, recently published in the journal Behavioral Ecology, reveals that the liver fluke can compel ants to crawl back down the blade of grass during hot daytime temperatures. This behaviour helps the parasite ensure its survival by increasing the chances of the infected ant being consumed by grazing animals like cattle and deer. "Getting the ants high up in the grass for when cattle or deer graze during the cool morning and evening hours, and then down again to avoid the suns deadly rays, is quite smart," said study co-author Brian Lund Fredensborg. "Our discovery reveals a parasite that is more sophisticated than we originally believed it to be." In this study, scientists tracked hundreds of infected ants in the Bidstrup Forests near Roskilde, Denmark, monitoring their behaviour in response to environmental conditions such as light, humidity, time of day, and temperature. They found a clear correlation between temperature and ant behaviour, with ants climbing higher on blades of grass in cooler temperatures and descending as temperatures rose. Also Read | How did a woman lose all limbs after eating contaminated fish in California? "We found a clear correlation between temperature and ant behaviour. We joked about having found the ants' zombie switch," Dr. Fredensborg remarked. Previous research has revealed that when the liver fluke infects an ant, hundreds of parasites enter the insect's body, but only one makes its way to the brain. This single parasite influences the host's behaviour while others conceal themselves in a capsule within the ant's abdomen. While the temperature was identified as a key factor in the parasite's control of ant behaviour, researchers are still working to uncover the specific chemical substances the parasite uses to manipulate ants into becoming "zombies." Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! Aditya L1, currently in an earth-bound orbit, has commenced the collection of scientific data, announced the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Monday. India's first space-based solar observatory is poised to break free from Earth's gravitational influence in a manoeuvre scheduled for Tuesday at approximately 2am. Thus, it will initiate its four-month journey toward Lagrange Point 1 in the earth-sun system. A graphic representation of ISROs Aditya L1 mission.(HT_PRINT) The Supra Thermal & Energetic Particle Spectrometer (STEPS) instrument, a component of the Aditya Solar Wind Particle EXperiment (ASPEX) payload, initiated scientific data collection after its activation on September 10, at a distance exceeding 50,000 km from earth, according to ISRO. The space agency further said that following essential instrument health checks, data collection persisted as the spacecraft moved beyond the 50,000 km mark from earth. What is the significance of these measurements? STEPS is equipped with six sensors, each observing different directions and measuring supra-thermal and energetic ions within the range of 20 keV/nucleon to 5 MeV/nucleon, along with electrons surpassing 1 MeV, ISRO said, adding that the measurements are conducted using low and high-energy particle spectrometers. According to the space agency, the data gathered during earth's orbits enables scientists to analyse particle behaviour around the earth, particularly in the presence of earth's magnetic field. Will Aditya L1 land on the sun? No. In contrast to Chandrayaan 3, where the Vikram lander, housing the Pragyan rover, made a soft landing near the lunar south pole, the solar probe will instead be stationed at the first Lagrange space point in the earth-sun system. The distance to the L1 point is 15 lakh kilometres, the spacecraft is expected to cover through various manoeuvres over the course of four months, according to ISRO. Notably, this distance accounts for just 1 per cent of the total 15 crore km separation between earth and the sun. What's next for the Aditya L1 mission? As the spacecraft journeys toward L1, it will depart earth's gravitational Sphere of Influence (SOI). Following the SOI exit, the cruise phase will commence, and subsequently, the spacecraft will be placed into a large halo orbit around L1. The overall travel time from launch to L1 is estimated to be about four months for Aditya-L1. These STEPS measurements will persist during the cruise phase and will continue once the spacecraft reaches its intended orbit. Data collected around L1 will provide insights into the origin, acceleration, and anisotropy of solar wind and space weather phenomena, ISRO said. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! The press service of the Ministry of Defense of Georgia is spreading the news that the Minister of Defense of Georgia is continuing his visit to Budapest. During his visit, Juansher Burchuladze received updates on the local defense industry from his Hungarian colleague and gained insights into Hungarian military capabilities.According to a press release, the Minister of Defense of Georgia visited the Hungarian unmanned aerial vehicle company Rotors and Cams, where he familiarized himself with the extensive array of industrial, law enforcement, and military products designed by the company for the local market. Additionally, a static display of drone technology was specially organized for the Georgian delegation.The Minister of Defense of Georgia was hosted by his colleague Kristof Szalay-Bobrovniczky. Following an official welcoming ceremony at the Ministry of Defense of Hungary, the two parties engaged in discussions concerning cooperation in the field of defense and explored prospects for future bilateral relations during their meeting.The Minister of Defense of Hungary emphasized Hungary's support for Georgia's Euro-Atlantic integration. He further mentioned that next year, when Hungary takes over the presidency of the Council of the European Union, it will have an even greater opportunity to support Georgia.The United National Movement is initiating an investigation into Prime Minister Irakli Gharibashvili, Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze, and former Prosecutor General Otar Partskhaladze in response to the sanctions imposed on Partskhaladze by the US State Department.One of the leaders of UNM, Giorgi Botkoveli, referred to leaders of the ruling Georgian Dream party as 'criminals'."We witnessed concrete facts provided by investigative journalists yesterday on Nodar Meladze's Saturday program. It confirmed the nature of the criminal activities of Irakli Gharibashvili, Kakhi Kaladze, and the type of business activities in which Partskhaladze is involved. Partskhaladze, who is now a Russian citizen while unlawfully retaining his Georgian citizenship, is implicated due to the decision of the chief spy, Bidzina Ivanishvili."The National Movement is demanding that the prosecutor's office initiate an investigation into Otar Fartskhaladze, Irakli Gharibashvili, and Kakhi Kaladze in connection with these facts. - "who, with the money of the Georgian people, organize their own comfort against the interests of the Georgian people in Georgia and engage in criminal activities," Botkoveli stated. A man wanted for robbery was caught after crashing into a field while fleeing police. Cayuga County Sheriff Brian Schenck said that after learning that Trent Goodrich, 22, of Wolcott, had been spotted in Wayne County last week, "a coordinated effort was made between the Cayuga County Sheriffs Office, the Wayne County Sheriffs Office, the Auburn Police Department, the Finger Lakes Drug Task Force, Cayuga County Probation Department, New York State Parole and the New York State Police, in conjunction with members of the G.I.V.E (Gun Involved Violence Elimination Initiative) to locate and apprehend" him. Goodrich was wanted for second-degree robbery and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, Schenck said, and had been "avoiding prosecution" since Aug. 31. According to a news release, when officers executed both an arrest warrant and a bench warrant on Sept. 13, Goodrich immediately fled in a stolen vehicle. After a brief pursuit in Wayne County, he crashed into a field and fled on foot where he was ultimately taken into custody. He was transported to the Cayuga County Sheriffs Office where he was processed on the warrants and held at the Cayuga County Jail pending court appearance. Schenck said his office was also assisted by both the Wayne County and Cayuga County Emergency Dispatch Centers and that anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Cayuga County Sheriffs Office at (315) 253-1222 or leave a tip at cayugacounty.us/452/Send-a-Tip. Apple Inc. partner Foxconn Technology Group plans to double its investment and employment in India, highlighting an accelerating manufacturing shift away from China as Washington-Beijing tensions grow. The logo of Foxconn is seen outside the company's building in Taipei, Taiwan,(Reuters file) V Lee, a Foxconn representative in India, said in a LinkedIn posting Sunday the Taiwanese company plans to double the size of its business in the South Asian country, as he congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his birthday. He didnt give details. We will work even harder to present you with a greater birthday gift next year, aiming for another doubling of employment, FDI, and business size in India, Lee said. ALSO READ: Apple Supplier Foxconn Begins iPhone 15 Production in India The investment plans of the Taiwanese company, also known for its flagship unit Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., include a 300-acre site close to the airport in Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka, Bloomberg News previously reported. That plant is likely to assemble iPhones and expected to create about 100,000 jobs. Setback for China Foxconns expansion in India underscores how Chinas at risk of losing its status as the worlds largest producer of consumer electronics. Apple and other US brands are leaning on their Chinese-based suppliers to explore alternative locations such as India and Vietnam. Its a rethink of the global supply chain thats accelerated during the pandemic and the war in Ukraine and could reshape the way global electronics are made. Hon Hai Chairman Young Liu last month reaffirmed Foxconns intention to increase investments in India, where it already operates nine production campuses and more than 30 factories employing tens of thousands of people. The company is in the early stages of expanding further in the country, where it takes in around $10 billion of revenue annually, Liu said. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! Microsoft Corp. said its chief product officer is leaving, a significant departure for the companys hardware and Windows divisions. A Microsoft logo is seen on an office building in New York City, US. Panos Panay will stay long enough to help his replacements transition into the role, Rajesh Jha, executive vice president of the experiences and devices group, announced in an email to employees on Monday. Panay, who had been with Microsoft since 2004, was central to the companys hardware efforts in his role leading the Surface computer division and most recently heading the Windows unit. Pavan Davuluri is being tapped to oversee operating systems, devices and chips related to desktop clients, cloud and artificial intelligence. Yusuf Mehdi will work with computer-maker and retail partnerships, Jha said. Thank you, Panos, for your impact on our products, culture, company, and industry over the past two decades, Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella said in a statement, adding that the company will remain steadfast and convicted in our strategy. Panay served as general manager for Surface when the initial tablets, Microsofts first piece of computer hardware, were introduced in 2012. Since then, hes led an expansion into laptops, desktops and accessories. The devices attracted comparisons to Apple, thanks to glitzy launch events and a focus on detail and high-quality design. More recently, Microsoft has scaled back the Surface operation, axing personnel and cutting slow-selling products. The companys HoloLens mixed-reality goggles project, overseen by Panay since 2022, has also struggled, thanks in part to a delayed US Army contract. The companys commitment to Surface and the mixed-reality business remains unchanged, Jha wrote in his email. Davuluri, a 20-year Microsoft veteran, is a vice president in Windows and Device engineering and has led silicon and systems integration. Mehdi has been at Microsoft for more than 30 years and first came to prominence as the head of marketing campaigns for Internet Explorer in the 1990s. More recently he has held roles at Xbox, Windows and Bing. Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! Former president Donald Trump has criticised the state abortion law signed by his challenger, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, which bans the procedure after six weeks. Slamming Rons decision, Donald called it a terrible mistake. Donald Trump has criticised the state abortion law signed by his challenger, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, which bans the procedure after six weeks (Photo by ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS / AFP, ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS / AFP) Ron signed the law in April. It will go into effect if the Florida Supreme Court upholds the states 15-week ban on abortion, which Ron signed into law last spring. Donald, who had previously appointed three Supreme Court justices who helped overturn Roe v. Wade, said in an interview that aired on NBCs Meet the Press, I think what he did is a terrible thing and a terrible mistake. The US Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade on June 24, 2022. Before being overturned, the legislation made access to an abortion a federal right in the United States. Both sides are going to like me Rons six-week ban includes exceptions for rape, incest, medical emergencies and fatal fetal abnormalities. Kristen Welker, the host of Meet the Press, asked Donald if he would sign federal legislation banning abortion at 15 weeks, to which he replied saying he would not. He added that he would negotiate with Democrats on the issue. On being asked what time frame he thinks is appropriate for an abortion ban, Donald simply said he would sit down with both sides and Id negotiate something, and well end up with peace on that issue for the first time in 52 years. Both sides are going to like me, he said. Im going to come together with all groups, and were going to have something thats acceptable. Donald also said some members of his own party speak very inarticulately about this subject." "I watch some of them without the exceptions, etc., etc.," he said, referring to people who do not support abortion exceptions in cases including abortion and rape. "I said: 'Other than certain parts of the country, you cant youre not going to win on this issue. But you will win on this issue when you come up with the right number of weeks. "Because Democrats dont want to be radical on the issue; most of them, some do," he added. "They dont want to be radical on the issue. They dont want to kill a baby in the seventh month or the ninth month or after birth. And theyre allowed to do that, and you cant do that." China complained to Germany after its foreign minister called president Xi Jinping a "dictator", the Chinese foreign ministry said. Calling the title "absurd" and an open political provocation, China lashed out against Annalena Baerbock branding the comment as "extremely absurd". This comes as Germany published a new policy in July to manage a more "assertive" China after months of debate within the government over its strategy as Beijing is Berlin's top trade partner. German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing, China.(Reuters) Annalena Baerbock has pushed for a more hawkish line against China and made the remarks in a Fox News interview during a visit to the United States. While talking about the Ukraine war, the German foreign minister said, "If Putin were to win this war, what sign would that be for other dictators in the world, like Xi, like the Chinese president? So therefore Ukraine has to win this war." Read more: Ray Dalio on India becoming a global power: PM Modi like Chinas Deng Xiaoping' Annalena Baerbock is an outspoken critic of China. Earlier in August, she said that China posed a challenge to the "fundamentals of how we live together in this world". Described aspects of a trip to China, she had then called them more than shocking, saying that Beijing was increasingly becoming more of a systemic rival than a trade partner. China said that it was "strongly dissatisfied" and that it had made "solemn representations to the German side through diplomatic channels". "(The comments) are extremely absurd and are a serious infringement of China's political dignity and an open political provocation," foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said. Under its new China policy, Berlin has called Beijing a "partner, competitor, systemic rival". SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Three people have been injured after a stabbing at an Australian university campus, police said. The victims were stabbed in the attack which happened at the Australian National University in Canberra. All three are recovering in hospital, Australian Capital Territory police said. Australia University Stabbing: All three are recovering in hospital, Australian Capital Territory police said.(Representational) Officials said that one person had been arrested and they were not seeking anyone else in connection with the attack. One witness told the Guardian that she saw between 10 to 15 police officers across Fellows Oval on the ANU campus before they handcuffed a man. She later saw a fairly visible wound in one victims back. They carted her off in a stretcher. But the police had this guy pinned down for a pretty long time, and thats all we could really see for a while, she said, adding, I went back upstairs and by then they had moved the guy... and I think they were checking his vitals for a pretty extended period of time, at least 20 to 25 minutes. He was cuffed behind his back and bleeding from at least one hand, from what I could see. Others at the scene remained fairly calm and were complying with police directions to move away from the area, she said, continuing, Business really stopped. Everyone was just watching from whatever vantage point they had. And the police, just so many police. The federal member for Canberra Alicia Payn said she was thinking of all ANU staff and students. Hope everyone is ok, she posted on social media. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON 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 South Carolina military airbase is seeking the publics help in finding a missing Marines Corps fighter aircraft. Reportedly, the aircrafts pilot ejected from it on Sunday afternoon, September 17. A South Carolina military airbase is seeking the publics help in finding a missing Marines Corps fighter aircraft (REUTERS/Benoit Tessier/File Photo - representational image)(REUTERS) An inquiry into the mishap was launched by Marine Corps investigators. One of the pilots was reportedly seen ejecting from an F-35 fighter aircraft over North Charleston. The pilot is based at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort and was found alive. He was taken to a medical centre for evaluation after he parachuted into South Kenwood Drive some yards from the airbase in North Charleston, the Daily Mail reported. Based on the jets last-known position and in coordination with the FAA, we are focusing our attention north of JB Charleston, around Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion, Joint Base Charleston wrote on X (formerly Twitter). It later also wrote, urging the public to help, Were working with @MCASBeaufortSC to locate an F-35 that was involved in a mishap this afternoon. The pilot ejected safely. If you have any information that may help our recovery teams locate the F-35, please call the Base Defense Operations Center at 843-963-3600. When heavily-decorated Marine Corps pilot Major Andre Mettler died in a crash last month The Marine Corps Air Station at Beaufort, which is situated about 35 miles south west of Charleston, houses many units of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. These include the Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 which flies F-35B Lightning IIs. At least 4,700 military personnel reportedly serve at the site. Last month, a heavily-decorated Marine Corps pilot died after his combat jet crashed near a San Diego base. The tragedy took place during a training flight. The pilot, Major Andre Mettler, was on an F/A-18D Hornet when it crashed on August 24 near Marine Corps Air Station Miramar before midnight. The Russian state news agency RIA reported on Monday that a series of blasts had been heard at the headquarters of the Russian-installed local authorities in the Russian-held city of Donetsk, in east Ukraine. Russian news agency RIA reported on Monday that blasts were heard. (AP/File) The city's Russian-installed mayor said in a statement on Telegram that central Donetsk was under fire. Reuters could not immediately independently confirm the statement. Canada on Monday accused India's government of involvement in the killing of a Canadian Sikh leader near Vancouver last June, prompting tit-for-tat diplomatic expulsions after New Delhi rejected the charge as "absurd." Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly (Reuters) The accusations sent already sour relations between Ottawa and New Delhi to a dramatic new low. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told an emergency parliamentary session that his government had "credible allegations" linking Indian agents to the June slaying of exiled Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. "The involvement of any foreign government in the murder of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil is an unacceptable violation of our sovereignty," Trudeau said. He called "in the strongest possible terms" on the Indian government to cooperate in clearing up the matter. Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said the Trudeau government had taken immediate action. "Today we have expelled a senior Indian diplomat from Canada," she said, without naming the official. Jolie said the expelled Indian is the head of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), India's foreign intelligence agency, in Canada. India's foreign ministry on Tuesday rejected claims of involvement in Nijjar's death and said it had ordered an unnamed senior Canadian diplomat to leave the country within five days. "Allegations of Government of India's involvement in any act of violence in Canada are absurd," the ministry said in a statement, adding: "We are a democratic polity with a strong commitment to rule of law." It said Trudeau -- who visited New Delhi this month for the G20 summit -- had already made similar allegations to his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, and that they had been "completely rejected." The ministry's decision to expel a Canadian diplomat reflected its "growing concern at the interference of Canadian diplomats in our internal matters and their involvement in anti-India activities," it added. Nijjar, whom India had declared a wanted terrorist, was gunned down on June 18 in Surrey, a suburb of Vancouver that is home to a large Sikh community. Canada has the largest population of Sikhs globally outside of India. Nijjar advocated for the creation of an independent Sikh state to be carved out of parts of northern India and perhaps part of Pakistan. New Delhi had accused Nijjar of carrying out terrorist attacks in India, a charge he denied. - Tense G20 meeting - Tensions between India and Canada have been simmering over the unsolved slaying, and Indian unhappiness over how Ottawa has handled right-wing Sikh separatists. A former adviser to Trudeau, Jocelyn Coulon, asserted that Canada's accusation would have "the effect of a bomb around the world." India will join "the group of nations that assassinate political opponents" abroad, much as Saudi Arabia orchestrated the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Turkey in 2018, said Coulon, who is now an independent researcher. Tensions between the two nations flared during the G20 summit. Modi expressed "strong concerns about continuing anti-India activities of extremist elements in Canada" during a meeting with Trudeau, according to an Indian government statement. India has often complained about activities of the Sikh diaspora abroad, particularly in Canada, which New Delhi believes could revive a Sikh separatist movement. The Indian state of Punjab, which is 58 percent Sikh and 39 percent Hindu, was rocked by a violent separatist movement in the 1980s and early 1990s, in which thousands died. Canada also recently suspended negotiations for a free-trade agreement with India. Trudeau later told media that Canada would always defend "freedom of expression, freedom of conscience and freedom of peaceful protest" while acting against hatred. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Alcohol-infused chocolate balls are the latest item to take over Chinas social media as consumers clamor for the surprise tie up between liquor giant Kweichow Moutai Co. and Mars Inc.s Dove brand. Market watchers are split on whether the recent tie ups can translate to better sales over the longer term.(Representational) The chocolates, which sell for 35 yuan ($4.80) for two 10-gram pieces, sold out immediately when they were launched on Saturday and presales every day since are also sell outs. Despite some social media users complaining about the high price, the chocolates are also proving popular on re-sale platforms, where 12 chocolates are selling for 500 yuan, according to local media reports. The partnership follows this months popular launch of an alcohol-infused latte, sold at Luckin Coffee Inc. stores across China, as Kweichow Moutai tries to boost its appeal to a younger demographic. The firm gets more than 80% of its revenue from moutai, a style of colorless but typically fiery liquor thats traditionally served at state banquets and popular among middle-aged consumers. As a traditional Chinese brand, Moutai needs to be forever young and embrace the young generation to enhance vitality, Chairman Ding Xiongjun said on Sept. 16. But market watchers are split on whether the recent tie ups can translate to better sales over the longer term. Bloomberg Intelligence has said it affirms the view that the distiller may continue with its accelerated efforts to rejuvenate the brand. Others have warned that the popularity of the low-cost items may tarnish its luxury image. Marketing campaigns that link a premium brand like Moutai to too many mass-market consumption may not be helpful, said Zhao Huanyan, a Shanghai-based economist at Huamei Consulting. There may not be any long-lasting impact on those newly-targeted consumers who dont drink Moutai, and meanwhile the campaigns may confuse its existing drinkers. The liquor firm has already sought to be clear with drinkers on its priorities, vowing not to shift away from its core business. The collaboration with Dove is trying to enhance Moutais competitiveness, said Ding. No matter how the time changes and how consumption is upgrading, Moutai started with liquor and will focuses on liquor. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Truth about the Chinese spy balloon has been uncovered by US intelligence. The Chinese spy balloon incident in February had caused much furore in international arena. US officials had accused China of spying which the Asian nation had categorically denied. After seven months of the incident, Intelligence community has finally revealed the findings of their investigation. Pilot's Selfie With Chinese Spy Balloon: US Air Force pilot looks down at the suspected Chinese surveillance balloon.(AFP) In an interaction on "CBS News Sunday Morning," General Mark Milley who is chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff has revealed what the balloon was all about and what exactly happened. "The intelligence community, their assessment and it's a high-confidence assessment [is] that there was no intelligence collection by that balloon," said Milley. Milley further highlighted that as per their investigation, the balloon had strayed from its path, flying over Alska, Canada and then into the United States. He said that winds at 60,000 feet contributed to the balloon's movement and the motor on it couldn't prevent that from happening. "Those winds are very high. The particular motor on that aircraft can't go against those winds at that altitude," highlighted Milley. ALSO READ| How George Soros is promoting left-wing ideas and helping US President Joe Biden What had happened in February 2023? The alleged Chinese spy balloon was downed by the US Air Force fighter aircraft, over the Atlantic Ocean. Later, the debris of the balloon was recovered by US Navy. Retrieved pieces of the debris were analysed at the Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory in Virginia for counterintelligence exploitation. "Recovery operations concluded February 16 off the coast of South Carolina, after US Navy assets assigned to US Northern Command successfully located and retrieved debris from the high-altitude PRC surveillance balloon," NORTHCOM had said in a statement at that time. The incident had created major tensions in the diplomatic relations between the United States and China. China had claimed that the balloon wasn't meant for spying rather it was merely a weather research airship that had been blown off its course. Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On September 17, Chinese auto parts supplier Baolong Automotive held the inauguration ceremony for its "Longwei New Plant and the Launch of Liquid Cooling Plate and Air Spring Projects" in Ningguo city, a county-level city in Anhui province. Simultaneously, it also celebrated the opening of the "New Factory Building for Air Tanks and Aluminum Components (Tuopusi Phase III)" project. According to the projects' names, it can be learnt that the two projects were operated by Baolong Automotives two wholly-owned subsidiaries, respectivelyAnhui Longwei Automotive Parts Co., Ltd. and Anhui Tuopusi Automotive Parts Co., Ltd. Chairman and President of Baolong Automotive, Zhang Zuqiu, highlighted the significance of the aforementioned two projects in reaffirming the company commitment to continuous development and expanding new project operations in Ningguo city. The new facilities are poised to meet the increasing demand for related product capacity expansion in the coming years. This development will further enhance Baolong Automotive's global capabilities in R&D, production, and delivery, strengthening the company's competitive position in relevant niche industries, Zhang Zuqiu added. The Longwei plant; photo credit: Baolong Automotive The Longwei New Plant Phase I, covering an area of 48,906 square meters with a floor area of 42,226 square meters, has already commenced operations. The Longwei Phase II and Phase III, with a combined floor area of 28,296 square meters, are currently under construction. The Longwei New Plant primarily focuses on the Liquid Cooling Plate and Air Spring projects, and the inauguration signifies the official commencement of these two projects. Baolong Automotive said it boasts a robust technical and managerial team in the field of automotive power battery and energy storage liquid cooling plates. It has established industry-leading automated production lines in the Longwei New Plant. Currently, the plant has secured contracts from multiple clients and has commenced mass production. Its production process includes stamping, brazing, spraying, and comprehensive testing, with an annual production capacity of 300,000 units. The company aims to become one of the leading suppliers for liquid cooling plates in China, with a planned total production capacity of 1.5 million units by 2028. The Longwei New Plant will own 14 automated production lines primarily dedicated to the R&D and production of commercial vehicle chassis air springs, cabin air springs, and driver seat air springs. It features an annual production capacity of 3.5 million units already completed and a planned capacity of 7.4 million units annually in total. The Tuopusi Phase III factory; photo credit: Baolong Automotive The Tuopusi Phase III new factory spans an area of 17,576 square meters with a floor area of 30,002 square meters. It houses automated production lines for air tanks and aluminum damping components. Its automated production lines for aluminum damping components support five projects of three categories of passenger car air springs in the Hefei industrial part. Currently, four fully automated production lines for air tanks have been established there, with plans to complete eight production lines by the end of this year. Its designed production capacity is set to reach 2 million units annually. China's top diplomat, Wang Yi, begins on Monday a four-day trip to Russia during which both nations are expected to pledge deeper mutual political trust, readying for a possible landmark visit by President Vladimir Putin to Beijing in October. Chinese Communist Party's foreign policy chief Wang Yi(AP) Wang, who heads the foreign ministry as well as the ruling Communist Party's foreign affairs office, will meet Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev for annual security talks, the Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement. He is also expected to lay the groundwork for Putin's visit to the Chinese capital for the third Belt and Road Forum after an invitation by President Xi Jinping during a high-profile visit to Moscow in March. Putin attended China's first two Belt and Road Forums in 2017 and 2019. But he is not known to have travelled abroad since the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant against him on grounds of illegally deporting hundreds of children from Ukraine. On Sept. 1, Putin said he expected to meet Xi soon, but did not explicitly confirm that he would travel to China again. The warrant, issued just days ahead of Xi's visit to Russia, obligates the court's 123 member states to arrest Putin and transfer him to the Hague for trial if he enters their territory. However, China is not a party to the Rome Statute that led to the establishment of the ICC in 2002. Wang last visited Russia in February on the eve of the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, alarming the United States, which accused the two nations at the time of sharing a vision in which "borders could be redrawn by force". Ahead of this week's visit, Wang travelled to Malta for hours of "constructive" talks with White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan. The weekend talks were the latest in a series of high-level meetings between U.S. and Chinese officials that could lay the foundation for a meeting this year between Xi and U.S. President Joe Biden.ea United States and Pakistan struck a deal and came together to help Ukraine in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, a report by theintercept.com has revealed. As per the report, the deal was brokered by Global Military Products, a subsidiary of Global Ordnance, which is an arms dealer. Representational Picture(File Photo) The report says that the US helped Pakistan secure a bailout from the International Monetary Fund(IMF) in lieu of the latter selling arms for supply to Ukraine. It highlights that Pakistan is a production hub for basic ammunitions needed for warfare. Notably, reports of Ukrainian military using Pakistan-produced shells and other ordinances in the war, have been published in recent times. The report highlights that records related to the sale of arms by Pakistan to USA, were leaked by a source within the Pakistani military. The alleged arms transactions happened between the summer of 2022 to the spring of 2023. The report also notes that the leaked documents were authenticated by matching the signature of an American brigadier general with his signature on publicly available mortgage records in the US. Notably, Pakistan is battling a major economic crisis and has requested loans from IMF and countries like China. Amid the deteriorating economic situation, former Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan was removed and later jailed. As per the report, US played a role behind-the-scenes in the ouster of Imran as they believed Pakistan(under his leadership) was maintaining a "neutral" stance in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. ALSO READ| Ring of Fire annular solar eclipse in USA: Which National Parks will offer best views of the natural event in October? US-assisted IMF loan helped the Pakistani establishment save their faces in the midst of economic issues and postpone elections after the ouster of Imran. In the mean time, Pakistan silenced the internal strife and jailed Imran. While all this happened, the US was largely silent on the human rights violations in Pakistan. Pakistani democracy may ultimately be a casualty of Ukraines counteroffensive, Arif Rafiq, a nonresident scholar at the Middle East Institute and specialist on Pakistan, was quoted as saying by The Intercept. France said Monday that it would set up a fund through its embassies to promote the rights of LGBTQ people, as it met like-minded nations at the United Nations. France last year became one of a small number of countries to appoint an ambassador dedicated to LGBTQ rights.(AFP) Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna made the announcement at the 15th anniversary of an LGBTQ group at the United Nations at the start of the annual General Assembly. READ | French minister comes out as gay on anti-homophobia day The fund of two million euros ($2.1 million dollars) will be used "for our embassies to support those who are defending LGBTQ rights on a daily basis around the world, sometimes at risk to their lives," foreign ministry spokeswoman Anne-Claire Legendre said. France last year became one of a small number of countries to appoint an ambassador dedicated to LGBTQ rights. In the United States, President Joe Biden has identified LGBTQ rights as a major diplomatic priority, with his administration appointing an envoy after taking office in 2021. A woman in the United States has lost all four of her limbs after suffering a severe bacterial infection from consuming contaminated fish. Laura Barajas, a 40-year-old resident of San Jose, California, fell seriously ill after eating undercooked tilapia, leading to a life-threatening condition. Laura Barajas, a 40-year-old resident of San Jose, California, fell seriously ill after eating undercooked tilapia, leading to a life-threatening condition.(HT) According to reports by the New York Post, Barajas became infected with Vibrio vulnificus, a bacterial strain known for its potency. Her close friend, Anna Messina, told KRON, "She almost lost her life. She was on a respirator. They put her into a medically induced coma. Her fingers were black, her feet were black, her bottom lip was black. She had complete sepsis, and her kidneys were failing." "It's just been really heavy on all of us. Its terrible. This couldve happened to any of us," she added. The infection forced doctors to amputate all of Barajas' limbs in a bid to save her life. Following a month-long hospital stay, she now faces the challenge of rebuilding her life without her arms and legs. What is Vibrio vulnificus? Vibrio vulnificus is a rare but dangerous bacterium, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issuing warnings about its potential risks. The CDC reports that 150-200 cases of infections are reported annually, and approximately one in five people infected do not survive, succumbing to the illness within one to two days. Also Read | CDC issues National Health Alert for infections caused by flesh-eating bacteria Dr. Natasha Spottiswoode, an infectious disease expert from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), explained, "The ways you can get infected with this bacteria are oneyou can eat something thats contaminated with it. The other way is by having a cut or tattoo exposed to water in which this bug lives." She emphasised that individuals with compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable. As Laura Barajas faces a long road to recovery, her friend Anna Messina has set up a GoFundMe campaign to assist with her medical expenses. The campaign has already garnered over $20,000 in support from well-wishers. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Iran and the US were to swap five detainees each on Monday after Qatar mediated a deal between the arch foes that also unfroze $6 billion of Tehran's funds. The Iranian and US flags are seen printed on paper in this illustration.(Reuters) How is the exchange happening? Implementation of the deal was triggered when Qatar confirmed that the funds had been transferred to bank accounts in Doha, a source briefed on details of the matter told Reuters. Under the deal, the five Americans with dual nationality are expected to leave Tehran for Qatar's capital Doha and then fly to the United States. In return, five Iranians held in the U.S. will be released. The Iranian Foreign ministry spokesperson said on Monday two of the Iranians being released would return to Iran while two would stay in the U.S. at their request. One detainee would join his family in a third country. The transfer of Iran's funds has drawn Republican criticism that President Joe Biden, a Democrat, is in effect paying ransom for U.S. citizens. The White House has defended the deal. An important unanswered question is whether the deal may lead to future agreements in disputes that range from Iran's nuclear standoff with the U.S. to Tehran's influence across the Middle East, including Hezbollah, its heavily armed proxy in Lebanon on Israel's border. How was the deal negotiated? The agreement was the culmination of months of diplomatic contacts, secret talks and legal manoeuvring, with Qatar at the heart of negotiations, sources and officials familiar with the discussions told Reuters. Doha hosted at least eight rounds of clandestine indirect meetings between Tehran and Washington since March 2022. The earlier rounds were devoted chiefly to Tehran's nuclear dispute with Washington, but over time the focus shifted to prisoners as the negotiators realised that nuclear talks would lead nowhere due to their complexity. The first public glimpse of the deal came on Aug. 10 when Iran allowed four detained U.S. citizens to move into house arrest from Tehran's Evin prison. A fifth was already confined at home. A month later, Washington waived sanctions to allow the transfer of Iran's funds to banks in Qatar, which will have a monitoring role to ensure Iran's clerical rulers spend the funds on non-sanctioned goods. Who are the prisoners? The detained Iranian Americans who will be allowed to leave Iran include businessmen Siamak Namazi, 51, and Emad Shargi, 59, as well as environmentalist Morad Tahbaz, 67, who also has British nationality. The fourth and fifth prisoners have not been identified. The five Iranians to be released by the U.S. are Mehrdad Moin-Ansari, Kambiz Attar-Kashani, Reza Sarhangpour-Kafrani, Amin Hassanzadeh and Kaveh Afrasiabi, according to Iran's mission to the United Nations. They were held in the U.S. mainly for "breaching the U.S. sanctions on Iran". Why were Iran's funds frozen in South Korea? In 2018, then U.S. President Donald Trump ditched Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with six world powers. He also reimposed harsh U.S. sanctions designed to choke off Iran's oil exports as part of a "maximum pressure" campaign on the Islamic Republic. Seoul, normally one of Irans largest oil customers, received a waiver in 2018 from the United States to continue purchases of Iranian oil for several months. However, after Washington placed a total ban on Irans oil exports and sanctions on its banking sector in 2019, Iranian revenues of $7 billion were blocked in Seoul. Tehran has lost nearly $1 billion of its initially deposited assets in Seoul due to the depreciation of the South Korean currency against the U.S. dollar, Iranian authorities have said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said there are credible allegations of a potential link between agents of the Indian government and the killing of a prominent Sikh leader. Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau(REUTERS) Hardeep Singh Nijjar was slain in June outside a temple in British Columbia, raising tensions between Sikh separatists and the Indian government. Canada has declared its deep concerns to the top intelligence and security officials of the Indian government, Trudeau said Monday in the Ottawa legislature. The prime minister added that he raised those concerns personally and directly with his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, on the sidelines of the Group of 20 meeting last week in New Delhi. In no uncertain terms, any involvement of a foreign government in the killing of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil is an unacceptable violation of our sovereignty, Trudeau said. READ | Canada expels Indian diplomat over slaying of Sikh leader Melanie Joly, Canadas foreign minister, said she has expelled the head of Indias intelligence agency in Canada from the country. The Indian High Commission in Ottawa the equivalent of an embassy didnt immediately respond to phone and email requests for comment. Trudeaus speech highlights a souring relationship between the two nations. Last week, Canada postponed a trade mission to India, which had been planned for early October, after the prime ministers contentious meeting with Modi in the Indian capital. READ | Hardeep Nijjar, designated terrorist and Khalistan supporter, shot dead in Canada India has characterized a June protest outside its High Commission as an attack and its anti-terror agency is investigating. Modis office also publicly criticized Trudeau for allegedly tolerating anti-India activities of extremist elements in Canada. There have been longstanding allegations from Indian officials that Canada has been too comfortable with Sikh separatists who want an independent Punjab carved out of northwestern India. John Kirton, director of the G20 Research Group at the University of Toronto, said the frostiness was palpable between the Canadian and Indian delegations at the summit in New Delhi. The relationship between the two countries is now at a very downward trough, he said. Obviously, its a very serious issue, but at this point its still in the realm of allegations. The World Sikh Organization said in a statement: Canada must immediately identify and bring to justice those individuals who were involved in the targeted killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. With top honours in two prestigious categories and another accolade in one of the festivals most popular sections, Indian productions had a banner year at the 48th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival or TIFF. Still from the Marathi film, A Match, which won the NETPAC Award at the Toronto International Film Festival. (Courtesy TIFF) Director Tarsem Singh Dhandwars first feature in eight years, Dear Jassi, set mainly in Punjab, captured TIFFs juried competition section, Platform Award. Debutant director Jayesh Digambar Somalkars Marathi feature, A Match (Sthal), won the Network for the Promotion of Asian Pacific Cinema or NETPAC Award, also selected by a jury. Meanwhile, the mainstream Bollywood thriller KILL emerged as first runner up for the Peoples Choice Midnight Madness Award. Dhandwar made his directorial debut in film with The Cell in 2000, which garnered an Oscar nomination. He went on to direct four more features, the latest being Self/less in 2015. He had already gained renown for his music videos for acts like REM and Lady Gaga and ad films for major brands. The Punjabi film, Dear Jassi, is based on the true life story of a honour killing of an Indo-Canadian, 25-year-old Jaswinder Sidhu, a resident of Maple Ridge in British Columbia. Jassis family hired killers in Punjab in 2000 after she eloped with Mithu, considered an unsuitable match. In its statement, the Platform jury said, Dear Jassi was a unanimous choice for this years Platform Award for its honest and poignant portrayal of a subject matter that still affects large portions of individuals forced to live under the inhumanity of bitter caste systems throughout the globe. The director, better known as Tarsem Singh, said there was nothing honourable about honour killings. He told the Hindustan Times after the announcement of the award, If theres anything I would ask for, specially from Indians, is please redefine it. The film is spare, stark and disturbing. Murder is a very disturbing thing. You can camouflage it and call it honour killings, but it is murder and all the more so gruesome when its a family member, he felt. He added though he loved Hindi films, he made Dear Jassi in this style and was glad it was appreciated at TIFF and by the Platform jury. The NETPAC jury described Somalkars A Match as an immersive portrayal of life in an Indian village, highlighting its oppressive patriarchal customs. The director told the Hindustan Times he and his entire team, am thrilled and honoured to receive the award. This is for our love, belief and passion for good cinema! I dedicate this award to all the brave women who challenge their adverse circumstances, he added. It depicts the clash between a young womans aspirations and societal pressure for an arranged marriage. KILL is the highest profile film of the three, and was the first runner up in the Peoples Choice Midnight Madness Award, which is based on voting by the audience. The goriest film to have ever emerged from India, one of its producers, Karan Johar, has described it to media as blood porn. The festivals most coveted prize, the Peoples Choice Award, was snagged by American Fiction directed by Cord Jefferson. The 48th edition of TIFF, North Americas largest movie event, began on September 7 and concluded on Sunday, SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Canadian police have identified an Indo-Canadian as the victim of what it believes was a targeted killing in the province of British Columbia. Indo-Canadian Gagandeep Sandhu, who was identified as the victim of a targeted killing by the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team in British Columbia (IHIT) Just after 5pm on Saturday, officers of the Burnaby detachment of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police or RCMP responded to a report of shots fired and upon arriving at the scene, discovered a man in a parkade. He was found deceased. The investigation of the murder was handed over to the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team or IHIT. On Sunday, IHIT identified the victim as 29-year-old Gagandeep Sandhu, a resident of Abbotsford. A release from the IHIT said the identity of the victim was being released in the hope of furthering their investigation. Sandhu had been gunned down while sitting in a vehicle in an underground parking lot. In their release on Saturday, Burnaby RCMP noted they believed the shooting was targeted and there was no further risk to the public. This was confirmed by the IHIT a day later, as its statement noted, Initial evidence suggests this was a targeted shooting, though the motive remains unclear. About 15 minutes after the murder was discovered, police were also alerted to a report of a vehicle burning about six kilometre away. Setting afire a vehicle used in a crime, particular a targeted killing, has bene part of the modus operandi of gangs operating in what is called the lower Mainland area of BC. However, investigators have yet to confirm whether Sandhus murder was linked to the ongoing gang warfare in the region. They also did not confirm whether the killing and the burnt black Honda Pilot SUV were connected. IHIT spokesperson Sgt Timothy Pierotti said, in a statement, IHIT is working closely with the RCMPs forensic experts to process both scenes and to determine if they are related. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Japan's internal affairs ministry said that one out of 10 people in the country is estimated to be 80 or older as the over-80s accounted for more than 10% of Japans population, for the first time. The government report was issued to mark the annual Respect for the Aged Day as Japan tackles with persistent low birthrates, making it the oldest country in the world in terms of the proportion of people aged over 65, which this year hit a record of 29.1%. Japan Population Crisis: People eat at an izakaya, or Japanese-style bar, in Tokyos Shimbashi area. The number of people who were 65 or older fell by about 10,000 from last year to 36.2 million- the first decline since comparable data became available in 1950. Of the 36.2 million, 15.7 million were men and 20.5 million were women. The level compared with second-ranked Italy's 24.5 percent and third-ranked Finland's 23.6 percent, according to the data. "Japan has the highest percentage of elderly population in the world," the ministry said as the country's attempts to improve birthrate have largely been unsuccessful. What the government data showed? With the baby boomer population turning 75 or older, Japan's 124.4 million people are continuing to grow older as around 12.59 million people are 80 or older while 20 million are 75 or older, data revealed. As a result, Japan is relying on an elderly labour force as more than nine million elderly are working, accounting for 13.6 percent of the workforce- one in seven workers in Japan. A quarter of all elderly in Japan have jobs- less than South Korea's 36.2 percent, but far ahead of the United States at 18.6 percent, and France at 3.9 percent. More than a third of people between 70 to 74 have jobs in Japan, the data showed and by 2040 Japan's elderly population is projected to account for 34.8 percent of the population. Last year, the number of babies born in Japan fell to less than 800,000 for the first time since records began in the 19th century. Why is this happening in Japan? Japan prime minister Fumio Kishida has said the country risks losing its ability to function if it does not take radical measures but authorities have been hesitant to accept large numbers of migrant workers. Similar problems with aging and shrinking populations are spreading across other parts of Asia. South Korea is expected to take over as the worlds grayest nation in the coming decades while Chinas population began to shrink in 2022 for the first time in 60 years. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON 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 Nine juvenile inmates have fled from the Abraxas Academy, a facility for troubled youths in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, located near Lancaster County. The Pennsylvania State Police reported that the escape occurred around 8 p.m. on a Sunday evening. Escape at Abraxas Academy: Juveniles on the Run in Pennsylvania(Twitter. X) The Abraxas Academy offers secure residential treatment and detention services for male juveniles aged between 14 and 18 years of age in 9th grade or above. ALSO READ: Absolutely destroying America: Donald Trump attacks Joe Biden over 6 billion aid to Iran, prisoner swap with US The authorities have issued an alert to the residents in the vicinity of Interstate 176 and Route 10. People have been asked to contact the cops for any information. 'If you have any information, please call 911 immediately,' authorities state. The inmates were seen wearing white and gray shirts and shots, as per the police department in Berks County. According to the Berks County police agency, the escape happened after a riot incident at the academy. This incident is part of a recent series of escapes from correctional facilities in Pennsylvania. Previously, an inmate named Danelo Cavalcante was captured by authorities after a constant search at the Berks County border in Chester County after a 14-day manhunt. Inmates Nasir Grant and Ameen Hurst had escaped from the Philadelphia Industrial Correctional Center in May. The two had a 19-hour head start before the authorities realised they had gone missing. ALSO READ: Trump returns to X with mug shot and a statement; Elon Musk reacts Michael Burham escaped from Warren County Jail, which led to a week-long manhunt in July. On August 31, Danelo Cavalcante managed to escape from the Chester County Prison by scaling a wall and making his way through razor wire. He was arrested after a nearly two-week search, during which he stole a firearm. In another incident from Loysvilly Youth Development Center, a violent juvenile made an escape in Perry County on September 3. With Gasgoo Daily, we will offer daily important automotive news in China. For those we have reported, the title of the piece will include a hyperlink, which will provide detailed information. SAIC Volkswagen's ID. Series achieve cumulative sales of over 150,000 units SAIC Volkswagen announced on September 16 that the cumulative sales of the ID. family have exceeded 150,000 units, with monthly sales surpassing 10,000 units in both July and August. The ID. lineup under SAIC Volkswagen currently includes models like the ID.3, ID.4X, and ID.6X, all of which are all-electric vehicles. Photo credit: Volkswagen Geely Holding says no specific plan to build factory in Indonesia Geely Holding Group released a statement on September 17, addressing recent media reports suggesting the company's intention to establish an electric vehicle factory in Indonesia. The statement clarified that while Geely is assessing the potential of the Indonesian new energy market and exploring opportunities to compete in the Indonesian market, there are currently no specific plans to invest in and build a factory in Indonesia. Geely's long-term partnership with DRB-HICOM remains crucial for its market development in the ASEAN region, with a focus on Malaysia as a key hub for new energy vehicles. JETOUR Traveler to hit market on September 26 Cherys JETOUR brand officially revealed that the Traveler off-road SUV will officially hit the market on September 26. Pre-sales for the JETOUR Traveler began at the Chengdu Motor Show 2023, with prices ranging from 140,900 yuan to 180,900 yuan. IM Motors NOA system for high-speed, elevated roads comes online in nine new cities in China IM Motors, the premium electric vehicle brand co-backed by SAIC Motor, Alibaba Group, and Zhangjiang Hi-Tech, recently announced the full opening of its NOA (Navigation on Autopilot) system for high-speed and elevated roads (called "High-Speed NOA" for short) within the Beijing Fifth Ring Road. Baolong Automotive inaugurates two new projects in Ningguo, Anhui province On September 17, Chinese auto parts supplier Baolong Automotive held the inauguration ceremony for its "Longwei New Plant and the Launch of Liquid Cooling Plate and Air Spring Projects" in Ningguo city, a county-level city in Anhui province. Simultaneously, it also celebrated the opening of the "New Factory Building for Air Tanks and Aluminum Components (Tuopusi Phase III)" project. Chery unveils Fengyun new energy vehicle range On September 16, CHERY, one of the four major passenger car brands under Chery Holding, announced the official name for its fresh new energy vehicle series - "Fengyun" (meaning Wind and Clouds) and revealed the image of the series inaugural model, the Fengyun A9. ZF Group, FAWSN Automotive Cockpit Group to build safety solutions under zero-gravity seating scenario In a strategic collaboration formed earlier this month, ZF Group and FAWSN Automotive Cockpit Group ("FSCG") joined forces to enhance passenger safety and comfort, with a particular focus on zero-gravity seating scenarios, according to a post on ZF Group's WeChat account. Autra Tech allies with KuanDeng Technology to advance smart trucking with high-precision map On September 18, Chinese commercial vehicle intelligent driving tech firm Autra Tech, entered into a strategic partnership with high-precision map service provider KuanDeng Technology. This collaboration marks a significant strategic upgrade, building upon two years of deep cooperation between the two entities. Baidu's Xi Rang partners with Qualcomm to build next-gen metaverse infrastructure Baidu and Qualcomm recently signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Beijing to initiate comprehensive strategic cooperation in the XR (Extended Reality) field, according to Qualcomms announcement on September 15. DeepWay so far secures over 1,000 orders for smart new energy heavy-duty trucks On September 17, DeepWay, the autonomous new energy heavy-duty truck developer backed by Baidu, announced that the cumulative order volume for DeepWay's intelligent new energy heavy-duty trucks has so far surpassed 1,000 units. Geely Galaxy L6 hits market, starting at 115,800 yuan On September 16th, the Galaxy L6, the second production model under Geely's young new energy vehicle range Galaxy, hit the market with five trim levels, namely, the 60km AIR, the 60km PLUS, the 125km PLUS, the 125km MAX, and the 125km STARSHIP (the range hereby only refers to the range using battery power alone). Its prices range from 115,800 yuan to 149,800 yuan. ZEEKR X sets sail for Europe On September 17, the first batch of European-spec ZEEKR X vehicles officially embarked on their overseas journey, marking the second ZEEKR-branded model to set sail for Europe following the ZEEKR 001's departure on August 25. This move signals a rapid expansion of ZEEKR's overseas presence, advancing the company's global strategy significantly. NIO hits milestone of deploying over 1,800 battery swap stations across China In an impressive feat of electrifying progress, NIO marked a significant milestone on September 15th as its 1,800th battery swap station came online in Beihai city, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. With this achievement, NIO has now positioned a total of 1,805 battery swap stations across the nation. China on Monday dismissed the existence of a "median line" in the volatile Taiwan Strait after Taiwan's defence ministry said it detected a record 103 Chinese warplanes flying around the self-ruled island in a 24-hour period. The ruling Communist Party of China has long vowed that the island must be unified with the Chinese mainland, by force if necessary, while Taiwan strongly rejects China's territorial claims over it.(Reuters) "First of all, this is not a question about foreign affairs. I suggest you refer to competent Chinese authorities for specifics," Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning said without commenting on Beijing's latest military provocation. "Let me say that Taiwan is part of China's territory. There is no so-called "median line" in the Taiwan Strait," Mao asserted when a reporter sought her response to Taiwan's defence ministry's statement that 40 of the 103 Chinese Peoples Liberation Army warplanes crossed the "median line" on the Taiwan Strait in a 24-hour span between Sunday and Monday. China views Taiwan a democratically governed island of 24 million as part of its territory, despite having never governed it. READ | Taiwan detects 103 Chinese warplanes near island in recent high The ruling Communist Party of China has long vowed that the island must be unified with the Chinese mainland, by force if necessary, while Taiwan strongly rejects China's territorial claims over it. According to a flight map provided by Taiwan's defence ministry, 40 of the 103 Chinese warplanes crossed the "median line" on the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwans self-declared air defence identification zone (ADIZ). Those 40 incursions were made by 10 Su-30 fighter jets, 12 J-10 fighter jets, four J-11 fighter jets, 10 J-16 fighter jets, two Y-20 aerial refuelling aircraft, and two KJ-500 airborne early warning and control planes, it said. READ | Taiwan urges China to stop 'destructive' military activities The ministry said it had tasked combat air patrol aircraft, navy vessels and land-based missile systems to respond. The number of incursions marked a new high in recent times, posing a "serious challenge" to security in the Taiwan Strait and wider region, the ministry said. "Continued harassment by the Chinese military is likely to cause a sharp rise in tensions and deteriorate regional security," it said, calling on Beijing to "immediately cease such destructive and unilateral behaviour." The latest military action from Beijing came days after China decided to impose sanctions on two US defence companies - Lockheed Martin Corporation and Northrop Grumman - for their involvement in arms sales to Taiwan. In disregard of China's firm opposition, the U.S. government deliberately supplies weapons to China's Taiwan region, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao said on Friday. The United States is going further down the wrong and dangerous path of arming Taiwan, Mao said at a press briefing. The Chinese government never wavers in its resolve to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, Mao said. "We call on the United States to earnestly abide by the one-China principle and the stipulations of the three China-U.S. joint communiques, stop arms sales to Taiwan, stop military collusion with Taiwan, and stop arming Taiwan, otherwise it will be met with China's resolute response," she warned. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Poland proposed on Monday that new European Union sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine should include a ban on Russian diamonds and Liquid Petroleum Gas and called for aligning sanctions against Belarus with those against Moscow. The EU should also stop buying Russian Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Poland said, to preserve the integrity and transparency of the Liquefied Petroleum Gas market and avoid distortion of competition. (File) In a proposal seen by Reuters, Poland calls for banning imports of Russian diamonds, the sales of which brought the Russian budget $4.5 billion in 2021, it said, and putting individual sanctions on the Russian Alrosa diamond company. "Alrosa has supported Russian military forces and the Russian war efforts in Ukraine, both directly and indirectly, for many years," the Polish paper said. The EU, which has already agreed 11 sanctions package against Russia since Moscow invaded Ukraine in February 2022, should also ban the provision of Information and Communication Technology services to entities from Russia, including computer software, cybersecurity services, and other ICT/IT services. "In the 8th package of sanctions against Russia, IT consultancy services were banned. This is a fairly narrow scope. No further ICT services were banned in the 9th and 10th sanctions packages. Therefore, we call for other services to be included in the ban, in accordance with Poland's proposals," it said. The EU should also stop buying Russian Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Poland said, to preserve the integrity and transparency of the Liquefied Petroleum Gas market and avoid distortion of competition. "Although LPG is a petroleum product, it has not fallen within the scope of the EU's embargo on the products belonging to the aforementioned category," it said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Pope Francis met on Monday with the new Russian ambassador to the Vatican, who said they discussed the pontiff's efforts to bring peace to Ukraine. Pope Francis (AFP) Ivan Soltanovsky, a long-time diplomat, presented his formal accreditation to the 86-year-old head of the Catholic Church, according to a Vatican statement. They "discussed, in particular, the mission of the papal special envoy to Ukraine, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, aimed at solving a number of humanitarian issues", Soltanovsky told Russia's official TASS news agency. "They agreed to continue an honest and open dialogue with the Holy See, traditionally built on the basis of mutual respect," the diplomat added. Earlier this year the pope appointed Zuppi, the head of Italy's Bishops' Conference, to lead a peace mission to try to stop the war in Ukraine. Zuppi has since visited Kyiv, Moscow, Beijing and Washington, where he met with US President Joe Biden. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov suggested last week the cardinal would return to Moscow. During a roundtable event, he said, according to TASS: "The efforts with the Vatican, whose envoy is going to come again, are continuing. "We are ready to meet with everyone, we are ready to talk to everyone." Pope Francis regularly calls for peace in Ukraine, although in the early months after Russia invaded its neighbour in February 2022 he drew criticism for not naming Moscow as the aggressor. He paid a rare personal visit to the Russian embassy to the Holy See the day after the invasion to "express his concern for the war", the Vatican said at the time. Prince Harry seemingly took a jab at the royal family on Saturday, September 16, for not allowing him to wear his military uniform during Queen Elizabeth IIs funeral last year, and the May coronation of King Charles III. A week ago I stood here and told you about the significance of being able to wear your nations flag again, the Duke of Sussex said during the closing ceremony for the sixth annual Invictus Games in Dusseldorf, Germany, according to Deadline. Prince Harry speaks during the closing ceremony of the 6th Invictus Games at the Merkur Spiel Arena, in Duesseldorf, Saturday Sept. 16, 2023 (Rolf Vennenbernd/dpa via AP)(AP) So many of you have told me that hit you right here. For many of you the uniform youve been wearing this past week will give you a new story to tell, he added. And for others, it may give your old uniform new meaning, Harry continued. But Im here to remind you that after all of this, you dont need to rely on a uniform, nor should you feel lost without one. Because everything you need is already within you. What did Prince Harrys rep say about his apparent jab at the royal family? However, a rep for the Duke dismissed the idea that his comments were directed at the royal family. Watch the speech and you will see there is no truth to this. His words were about the competitors, no one else. This is nothing more than click-bait speculation, the rep told New York Post. Harry was not allowed to wear the Blues and Royals No. 1 dress uniform as he was no longer a senior member of the royal family at the time, according to Buckingham Palace. Back in 2020, Harry and his wife Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, tepped down as working members of the family. They were subsequently stripped of their titles. The pair now live with their children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet in California. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Investor and founder of investment management company Bridgewater Associates, Ray Dalio, said India currently has the highest growth rate while likening India to China from the 1980s and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to former leader of Peoples Republic of China Deng Xiaoping. The latter has been widely credited for opening up the Chinese economy to foreign investors as he encouraged the creation of a market economy and capitalist-like enterprises in the country. Ray Dalio, Bridgewater's Co-Chairman and Co-Chief Investment Officer, seen.(Reuters) We have 10 year growth rate estimates for India, all the countries top 22 countries India has the highest potential growth rate India is where China was when I started to, I started to go in 1984. So if you look at the complexion, the per capita income and I think Modi is a Deng so that you have a massive reform development, creativity, all those elements, there are of course issues, risk issues. But India is, is very very important, Ray Dalio in a podcast at the All-In Summit 2023 at UCLA campus in Los Angeles. The summit was hosted by the All-In Podcast. It included Chamath Palihapitiya, Jason Calacanis, David Sacks & David Friedberg. Ray Dalio said during the podcast summit, Now, of course, there's there is a religious internal issue having to do with the population has 240 million Muslims. And I don't think that any of these issues is going to stop India. I also in history, the countries that were the neutral countries did the best. So in other words, better than the winners in wars. So as we have this conflict between the United States and China and its allies Russia and so on, as we see that line up countries that are in the middle like India are going to be net beneficiaries of that. The investor had met PM Modi during his US visit in June and discussed the reforms undertaken by the government. PM Modi had also invited Ray Dalio to make further investments in the country. The billionaire had then said that Indias potential is enormous and is at a juncture where a lot of opportunities will be created. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan asked Tesla CEO Elon Musk to build a Tesla factory in Turkey, the country's communications directorate said. To the request, Elon Musk responded by saying that many Turkish suppliers are already working with Tesla. Turkey was among the most important candidates for its next factory, as per the government's statement. However, Tesla has not officially responded on the comments. Turkey's president Recep Tayyip Erdogan(PTI) Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Elon Musk spoke during a meeting at Turkish House in New York, Turkey's state-owned Anadolu news agency reported as the president is in the US to attend the 78th session of the UN General Assembly. Erdogan also said during the meeting that Turkey was open to cooperation on artificial intelligence and Starlink, the satellite internet venture of Musk's SpaceX, the communications directorate said. Elon Musk said that SpaceX wished to work with Turkish authorities to obtain the necessary licence to offer Starlink satellite services in Turkey. Erdogan also invited Elon Musk to attend Turkish aerospace and technology festival Teknofest in Izmir at the end of September. Elon Musk is also set to meet Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu in California. Their talks would focus on artificial intelligence technology, Elon Musk posted on social media platform X. Where are Tesla factories? Tesla currently has six factories and is building a seventh in Mexico in northern Nuevo Leon state as it aims to expand its global footprint. In May, Elon Musk said that Tesla would probably pick a location for a new factory by the end of this year. In addition to running Tesla, Elon Musk also bought X, formerly known as Twitter, for $44 billion in 2022. While describing himself as a free speech absolutist, Elon Musk has complied with some demands by the Turkish government to censor content on his social media platform. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Russia carried out a new wave of overnight air strikes and shelling in Ukraine, killing two people in the southern region of Kherson, Ukrainian officials said on Monday. Russia-Ukraine War: A local resident clear the rubbles of his destroyed following Russian missiles strike in Kherson.(AFP) Kherson region governor Oleksandr Prokudin said a man aged 72 and an elderly woman had been killed in a Russian attack on the region, and three others were wounded, but gave no further details. He said four others were hurt in a morning drone attack on the town of Beryslav, adding: "The occupiers deliberately attacked a crowded place, dropping explosives near the local bus station." Odesa region governor Oleh Kiper said the Izmail district, home to Danube River ports that are used to export grain, had been targeted in a drone attack but gave no details of any damage to port or grain infrastructure. He said 11 drones had been destroyed in attacks on the region and that an unspecified recreational facility in the small city of Vylkove had been hit. A fire there was quickly extinguished, he added. The governor of the neighboring Mykolaiv region said falling debris caused a fire in an unused building in the Snihurivka community, which was promptly extinguished, and a blast wave damaged nearby buildings. He gave no further details. Ukraine's air force said 18 out of 24 Russian drones were shot down, and that 17 cruise missiles were downed overnight over the Dnipropetrovs'k, Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions. The deputy governor of the Khmelnytskyi region said the blast wave had damaged the roofs and windows of several homes, and debris fell on the territory of an unspecified production facility and damaged a railway track. Reuters was not able to immediately verify the reports. Russia did not comment on the latest attacks and has said it does not deliberately target civilians. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Ukraine said on Monday it downed 18 Russian drones and 17 cruise missiles attacking its territory overnight. Russia-Ukraine War: Burnt trucks are seen in Odesa, Ukraine.(AP) Russia launched 24 drones at the Ukrainian southern regions of Odesa and Mykolaiv overnight, Ukraine's air force said in a post on Telegram. It added that all of the 17 missiles were destroyed over the Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Taiwan's defence ministry on Monday sounded alarm bells about heightened military activity by China, saying it had detected 103 Chinese warplanes around the island in a 24-hour period. An aircraft of China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) takes part in military drills near Taiwan.(FIle photo / Reuters) "Between the morning of September 17th to 18th, the Ministry of National Defence had detected a total of 103 Chinese aircraft which was a recent high and has posed severe challenges to the security across the Taiwan Strait and in the region," it said in a statement. Beijing's "continued military harassment can easily lead to a sharp spike in tension and worsen regional security," the ministry said, as it called on China to "immediately stop such destructive unilateral actions. This latest episode comes as part of a series of increasing military manoeuvres by Beijing near Taiwan. The Chinese government has consistently asserted its claim over Taiwan, which it considers a part of its territory, despite the island having its own government, military, and constitution. The core of China's claim on Taiwan is the One-China policy, which asserts that there is only one sovereign state called "China," and both Taiwan and the mainland are part of that single entity. The PRC insists that Taiwan is a province of China that is temporarily separated and must eventually be reunified with the mainland, either through peaceful means or, if necessary, by force. Beijing has sought to isolate Taiwan diplomatically by pressuring other countries not to officially recognize it as a separate country. Most nations in the world follow the One-China policy and do not formally recognize Taiwan as a sovereign state. However, many countries maintain unofficial relations with Taiwan and engage in trade, cultural, and economic exchanges. (With inputs from agencies) SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR HT News Desk Follow the latest breaking news and developments from India and around the world with Hindustan Times' newsdesk. From politics and policies to the economy and the environment, from local issues to national events and global affairs, we've got you covered. ...view detail Under the scorching sun, Thai archaeologist Tanachaya Tiandee clambers through ruined pagodas in the ancient town of Si Thep, trying to unlock their mysteries -- a task made harder because parts of the puzzle are missing thanks to decades of looting. A prayer garland next to the 6th-9th Century B.C Dharmachakra artifact at the Si Thep historical site in Thailand's Phetchabun province. (AFP) Thailand has a rich collection of historical sites, but foreign looting has stripped many of them, leaving the country scrambling to repatriate its stolen cultural wealth. "The big picture like the building was discovered, but the artefacts which tell little details are missing, making a lot of stories untold about Si Thep," Tanachaya told AFP. "It's like a piece of puzzle was missing," she said. The 400-hectare complex, which archaeologists date back to between 1,500 to 1,700 years ago, may be inscribed in UNESCO's cultural world heritage list this week -- Thailand's first addition since 1992. As 33-year-old Tanachaya carefully excavates the ancient stone constructions, she faces a difficult task piecing together the stories of Si Thep, which lies around 200 kilometres (120 miles) north of Bangkok. It is believed that over the years, at least 20 objects have been stolen from the site, with experts identifying 11 in museums in the United States. The real number of looted objects is suspected to be far higher, thanks to a lack of documentation. Now Tanachaya -- who decided when she was young that she wanted to become a Thai version of movie character Indiana Jones -- and her colleagues face their own quest. Can they bring their culture's treasures home? 'Won't accelerate' Thailand's government, led at the time by the military, established the Committee to Monitor Thai Antiquities Abroad in 2017. About 340 objects have been voluntarily repatriated to Thailand since then, according to the latest report by the committee. But the process is slow, partly because government officials are wary of jeopardising diplomatic relations with important allies like the United States. Instead, Thai authorities have pursued a "discreet" diplomatic route, explained the director-general of Thailand's Department of Fine Arts Phnombootra Chandrachoti. "We won't accelerate anything," he told AFP. The Norton Simon Museum, located in the US state of California, holds nine Thai artefacts, according to a recent statement from the committee -- including one item an independent expert says is from Si Thep park. The items were among 32 scattered in museums across the United States, the committee said. The Norton Simon is only one of a number of US institutions -- including New York's Metropolitan and San Francisco's Asian Art Museum -- that have been named in the growing scandal around art that investigators claim was illegally removed from its country of origin. The museum told AFP it had not heard from the Thai government, but would cooperate with authorities if contacted, and defended holding the items. The works, which it claimed were legally purchased, "have been carefully preserved and displayed" said Leslie Denk, vice-president of external affairs at the institution. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Beijing (Gasgoo)- IM Motors, the premium electric vehicle brand co-backed by SAIC Motor, Alibaba Group, and Zhangjiang Hi-Tech, recently announced the full opening of its NOA (Navigation on Autopilot) system for high-speed and elevated roads (called "High-Speed NOA" for short) within the Beijing Fifth Ring Road. Photo credit: IM Motors Moreover, the IM AD High-Speed NOA has further expanded its coverage to another six provinces and nine cities in China. As of now, IM Motors' IM AD system is available in a total of 12 provinces and 26 cities in the country, with plans to achieve nationwide coverage by the end of this year. The company is currently conducting internal testing for City NOA and plans to begin public testing in October. The BETA version of the IM AD High-Speed NOA has been introduced in six provinces and nine cities and is accessible to IM Motors' L7 and LS7 public testing users. This update also includes a significant expansion of the NOA map in Beijing, covering high-speed elevated road segments beyond the Fifth Ring Road, extending up to and including the Second Ring Road. The official version is expected to be rolled out to all L7 and LS7 users by the end of September. The newly added coverage areas encompass six provinces, including Guangdong, Shandong, Yunnan, Guizhou, Sichuan, and Hainan, and nine cities, namely Dongguan, Foshan, Jinan, Qingdao, Kunming, Guiyang, Changzhou, Nantong, and Taizhou. Recent official test videos demonstrate IM AD's successful navigation through challenging scenarios, including a no-protection U-turn in the Lujiazui Financial City area of Shanghai. IM AD aims to achieve "commuting mode, nationwide coverage" by 2024 and enter the "Door to Door" era of autonomous driving, covering the majority of scenarios, by 2025. Search for a missing fighter jet began after a US Marine Corps pilot safely ejected from the aircraft over North Charleston. Military officials focused on two lakes north of North Charleston after the pilot ejected and parachuted safely into at about 2 pm local time. A Lockheed Martin F-35 is seen,(AP ) The pilot was taken to a local hospital, where he was in stable condition, officials informed without sharing details. Based on the missing plane's location and trajectory, the search for the F-35 Lightning II jet was focused on Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion. Both lakes are north of North Charleston. The search is aided by a South Carolina Law Enforcement Division helicopter after some bad weather cleared in the area. Military officials appealed in online posts for any help from the public in locating the aircraft as officials are still investigating why the pilot ejected. The pilot of a second F-35 returned safely to Joint Base Charleston. Both the planes and pilots were with the Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 based in Beaufort. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Secretary of State Antony Blinken met Monday with China's vice president on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly as the Biden administration and Beijing step up high-level contacts ahead of what could be a leader-level summit this fall. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese Vice President Han Zheng shake hands while posing for photos in New York.(REUTERS) Blinken and Vice President Han Zheng held talks Monday at the Chinese mission to the United Nations. Their discussion came as China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi was in Moscow meeting Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov after wrapping up two days of talks with US national security adviser Jake Sullivan in Malta. The quick succession of US-China contacts is fueling speculation that President Joe Biden may meet his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in November at an Asia-Pacific Economic conference in San Francisco. READ | China promised not to send arms to Russia, Antony Blinken says "I think it's a good thing that we have this opportunity to build on the recent high-level engagements that our countries have had to make sure that we're maintaining open communications and demonstrate that we are responsibly managing the relationship between our two countries," Blinken said in brief remarks at the top of the meeting. Han told Blinken that US-China relations face "difficulties and challenges" that require both countries to show "more sincerity" and make additional efforts to "meet each other half way." Blinken visited Beijing over the summer after canceling a planned trip there in February following the shootdown of a Chinese surveillance balloon over U.S. territory. Blinken was followed to Beijing by Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, climate envoy John Kerry and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. READ | Antony Blinken begins visit to Beijing in bid to lower temperature "From the perspective of the United States, face-to-face diplomacy is the best way to deal with areas where we disagree and also the best way to explore areas of cooperation between us," Blinken said. "The world expects us to responsibly manage our relationship. The United States is committed to doing just that." The White House said Sunday that Sullivan's meeting with Wang in Malta was intended to "responsibly maintain the relationship" at a time of strained ties and mutual suspicion between the rival powers. It said the pair had "candid, substantive and constructive discussions." The White House said Sullivan and Wang discussed the relationship between the two countries, global and regional security issues, Russia's war in Ukraine and the Taiwan Strait. They also discussed artificial intelligence, counternarcotic efforts and the status of detained US citizens in China. READ | Anthony Blinken to meet top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi in Jakarta: US However, after those talks, Wang travelled immediately to Russia for several days of security consultations with senior Russian officials. China and Russia have grown closer as relations with the West have deteriorated for both. China is looking for support as it seeks to reshape the US-led international order into one that is more accommodating to its approach. Last month, it helped engineer an expansion of the BRICS partnership, which invited six more countries to join what has been a five-nation bloc that includes China and Russia. The US and China are at odds over Russia's military action in Ukraine. China has refrained from taking sides in the conflict, saying that while a country's territory must be respected, the West needs to consider Russia's security concerns about NATO expansion. It has accused the US of prolonging the fighting by providing arms to Ukraine, weaponry that the US says Kyiv needs to fight back against Russia. Wang's trip to Moscow also came a day after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un left Russia following a six-day visit that included talks with President Vladimir Putin at a far eastern spaceport, visits to aircraft plants and inspections of nuclear-capable strategic bombers and an advanced warship. Kim's trip fuelled Western concerns about an arms alliance that could boost Russian arsenals for fighting in Ukraine. US presidential hopeful Republican Indian-American Vivek Ramaswamy said that one of the things that he needs to do as US President is to enforce the civil rights law as they exist on the books. Republican presidential candidate businessman Vivek Ramaswamy speaks at the Iowa Faith & Freedom Coalition's fall banquet.(AP) In his address at the Iowa Faith and Freedom Coalition Town Hall, Vivek Ramaswamy said, "There are two sides to the job. One is there are policies the US president should stand for and where I begin is not what I need to ask Congress to do, most of those promises are never fulfilled, repeal and replace Obama Care you might remember that it didn't happen it's not anyone's fault just Congress is designed to act slowly if at all. One of the things I need to do is as US president enforce the civil rights laws as they exist on the books." Modern wokeness has become a religion in the US which indicates that you can't speak certain words or wear certain clothes, he said adding that will instruct the US Department of Justice to enforce all civil rights laws "even-handedly rather than in a one-sided way." "I wrote a book about this I think that modern wokeness reflects a sort of religion in this country, actually certain words you can't say clothes you can't wear, apologies you must recite, excommunication procedures that must be initiated. Well one of the things is the Supreme Court's been clear that even secular humanism meets the test for what counts as a religion, if that does wokeism does too turns out to be a religion ... you can't force an employee to bow down to your religion," he said. "Well if wokeness meets the Supreme Court's test for what counts as a religion then that's what we're seeing across this country is actually a civil rights violation where ordinary Americans should not be forced to choose between speaking their minds freely and putting food on the dinner table, between the American dream and the First Amendment. We're the nation on Earth where you get to enjoy both of those things at the same time that's what it means to be an American and that in many ways is a violation under current law already so I'll instruct the Department of Justice to enforce all civil rights laws even-handedly rather than in a one-sided way," he added. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON 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 Four men and one woman prisoners were released from Tehran, Iran when the US released nearly $5.9 billion worth of assets that Iran earned by selling oil to South Korea. Four men and one woman prisoners were released from Tehran, Iran when the US released nearly $5.9 billion worth of assets that Iran earned by selling oil to South Korea. (REUTERS) A Qatari jet containing the freed prisoners along with a Qatari ambassador took off from Iran earlier to the US. Interestingly, the prisoners hold Iranian passports. According to the officials, the cash reached Qatar, which was a key element according to the agreement. Nasser Kannani, spokesman from the Iranian Foreign Ministry was the first to nod that the swap would take place on Monday. He also informed that the cash sought in the exchange, which was held by South Korea, was now in Qatar. Additionally, five Iranian prisoners have also been released by the US. "On the subject of the prisoner swap, it will happen today and five prisoners, citizens of the Islamic Republic, will be released from the prisons in the US," said Nasser. However, two of the Iranian prisoners will stay in the U.S., informed the spokesman. "Five imprisoned citizens who were in Iran will be given to the US side," he added. Here's a list of the prisoners that have now been freed: Siamak Namazi was detained in 2015 and later sentenced to 10 years in prison on spying charges Emad Shaghi who is a venture capitalist was sentenced to 10 years in prison Morad Tahbaz of Iranian descent, who is a British-American conservationist was also sentenced to 10 years in prison after being arrested in 2018 As per abcNEWS the other two prisoners, a man and a woman have asked that their identity not be made public. All these charges have come to be widely criticised by the prisoner's families, activists and the American government. While earlier Iran had anticipated getting a whopping $7 billion, Iran's Central Bank Chief, Mohammad Reza Farzin, came on state television to announce the receipt of -$5.9 billion- in accounts in Qatar. Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden, has taken legal action against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), alleging unauthorized disclosure of his tax information. In a lawsuit filed on Monday, Hunter Biden claims that the IRS agents illegally released his tax return details and failed to protect the confidentiality of his records. FILE - President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden leaves after a court appearance, July 26, 2023, in Wilmington, Del. Hunter Biden has filed a lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service, arguing that two agents violated his right to privacy when they publicly aired his tax information as they pressed claims that a federal investigation into him had been improperly handled. The lawsuit filed Monday says that his personal tax details shared during congressional hearings and interviews was not allowed by whistleblower protections.(AP) The lawsuit, filed in a federal court in Washington, D.C., does not name the two IRS agents, Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler, who turned whistleblowers, as defendants. However, it revolves around disclosures made by these agents and their legal representatives in public statements, congressional testimonies, and interviews. The lawsuit contends that the IRS violated Hunter Biden's privacy rights by unlawfully disclosing his tax return information and failing to establish safeguards for the protection of his confidential records. Among the remedies sought, Hunter Biden is requesting all documents related to the disclosure of his tax information, $1,000 for each unauthorized disclosure, and coverage of his attorney fees. The lawsuit states, Despite clear warnings from Congress that they were prohibited from disclosing the contents of their testimony to the public in another forum, Mr. Shapley and Mr. Zieglers testimony only emboldened their media campaign against Mr. Biden. Also Read | The impact of Hunter Biden's legal troubles on the President Joe Biden The lawsuit emphasizes that the IRS agents, despite their whistleblower status, went beyond confirming the investigation into Hunter Biden's taxes by providing specific allegations, deduction amounts, and tax liabilities for certain years. Tensions have escalated in the ongoing investigation, with Shapley's lawyers stating that Hunter Biden's legal team attempted to induce the Justice Department to retaliate against their clients for their disclosures, which were protected under whistleblower rules. The IRS agents had earlier gone public with their allegations concerning the Justice Department's handling of the investigation into Hunter Biden. In June, Hunter Biden had reached a plea deal with the Justice Department related to tax misdemeanors, which later fell apart. Subsequently, Hunter Biden was indicted on three felony gun charges, and there is the possibility of tax charges being brought against him. Clothes which "hurt the feelings" of the nation could soon be banned in China, according to recent draft revisions to legislation, news agency AFP reported. The proposed law states that both speech and clothing deemed "harmful to the spirit of the Chinese people" or that "hurts the feelings" of the nation will result in fines. Use of the same could also lead to jail time. Although, the law does not specify which which types of clothing stand to be banned by the new rules. China's president Xi Jinping in Beijing.(AP) "Determining who has the authority to decide and how to make judgements may require more time, and we need the establishment of mature judgement criteria before advancing such proposals," a 23-year-old Beijing resident told AFP, adding that the offences that the law targets are not as clear as crimes like robbery, where right and wrong are definitive." Dressing is everyone's own choice and freedom, but there are also special (circumstances). If someone makes an insulting move in front of a certain statue on a specific day and wears a special costume, such behaviour is 100 percent on purpose and should be punished, she was quoted by the news agency as saying. Many legal scholars in China objected on similar grounds to the revisions in the law as the consultation period will last till September 30. The proposals would lead to "too vague a standard of punishment, which will easily lead to an arbitrary expansion of the scope of administrative punishment", Tsinghua University's Lao Dongyan said on social media platform Weibo. Earlier this month, social media videos showed a man in the city of Shenzhen being questioned by police for livestreaming himself wearing a skirt. In 2021, the state-backed Global Times said that a woman was "severely criticised and educated" after she wore a kimono in public on December 13, the national remembrance day for victims of Japanese war crimes in 1937. Last year, a woman said she was detained during a photoshoot while wearing a kimono in the city of Suzhou by police. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON (Photo : Ore Huiying/Getty Images) Singaporean students have been found to spend hundreds of dollars on arcade games which has sparked concern about the situation. Singaporean students spend hundreds of dollars playing games at arcade centers, spreading concern about the situation. One example is Alicia, not her real name, who is a student who spends roughly $2,500 every month at arcade games. When she plays, she gets tickets that, if they are enough, can be exchanged at the center for gadgets and toys. Splurging on Arcade Games The student is known to go to the arcade center roughly five times every single month and can spend up to two hours every time. Alicia, a Secondary student who does well at school, said the experience is a thrill. Arcades are not allowed to admit individuals under 16 on school days except between 6:30 p.m. and 11:59 p.m., but an exception exists for some amusement centers with no computer games. As per the Straits Times, they can admit young people under 16 from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on school days if the licensee ensures they do not play video games. The Singaporean student said that no one has ever tried to stop her because she changed her school uniform before going into arcade centers in malls near her school. The teenage student gets the money she uses at the arcade centers from her mother and said that while she can get the toys online for much less, playing at the arcade "feels totally different." Alicia added that her satisfaction from winning the toys alone makes her happy. In particular, she enjoys prize-redemption games, such as coin-pusher machines and claw machines that give players tickets and toys. Read Also: Dubai: Over $1 Billion Worth of Highly Addictive Pills Seized in Drug Bust Getting Addicted However, according to Asia One, observers have expressed concern that the line between gaming and gambling is blurred when players are attracted by prizes that are potentially worth more than what they spend on the machines. Additionally, prize-redemption games are popular in places such as Hong Kong, and in the past, arcades have allowed patrons to exchange game points for cash, which was considered illegal. In 2020, media reports noted that some young gamers, lured by quick cash, became addicted to fishing games, with players shooting at sea creatures to earn points. These individuals later found themselves mired in debts of more than $17,400, and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) also said that it had noticed a growing trend of games at amusement centers and funfairs that feature elements of chance. Another player, 26-year-old Yvonne, who is not her real name, enjoys playing games like coin-pusher machines. She says they are similar to "legal gambling" despite giving out non-cash jackpots. Yvonne, who works in the public relations industry, said that arcades can be considered mini-casinos as getting tickets, hitting jackpots, and collecting cards from machines is fun. She added that coin-pusher machines and other similar games are "really addictive," said Today Online. Related Article: Venice and Its Lagoon Avoid Inclusion on UNESCO List of Heritage Sites in Danger @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. (Photo : Sean Gallup/Getty Images) New York City authorities arrested and charged two individuals with murder for the death of a one-year-old boy at a Bronx day care over suspected fentanyl exposure. New York City authorities have charged two individuals with murder in relation to the death of a one-year-old boy at a daycare in what is believed to have been a fentanyl exposure-related incident. The two suspects are 36-year-old Grei Mendez, the operator of the Divino Nino daycare in the Bronx, and 41-year-old Acevedo Brito, who lived at the address listed for the daycare center. Officials arrested the two on Saturday evening on a count of murder showing "depraved indifference." Bronx Day Care Death The case relates to the victim, identified as Nicholas Feliz Dominici, and the two suspects, as of Sunday afternoon, were still waiting to be arraigned in Bronx Criminal Court. They are facing charges that include four counts of endangering the welfare of a child and 16 counts of assault and criminal possession of drugs. At the daycare center where the child died, a sign read "Welcome" remained on the door and some candles, a bouquet of white flowers, and a plastic fire truck sat by the door. The victim appeared to be adjusting well at the center, a small and cheerful place that was relatively affordable and had a good reputation, said the mother, Zoila Dominici, as per the New York Times. She also said that she did not see anything that looked out of the ordinary inside the daycare, noting there were just little beds and toys. Dominici added that Mendez appeared to be a responsible woman who played soothing music for the children to get them to nap. The 34-year-old mother, a caregiver for older people, has four other children but said she had just gotten Nicholas and he was already taken away from her. She then thanked God for what little time she could spend with her son. Emergency medical workers on Friday arrived at the six-story brick building in the north Bronx at around 2:45 p.m. A neighbor had said that one of the women who worked at the center ran out, screaming that they could not wake the children from their usual nap. Read Also: Danelo Cavalcante Jailbreak: Escaped Killer Says Searchers Nearly Walked On Him, Hiding Beneath Leaves Suspected Fentanyl Exposure First responders immediately administered Narcan to three children who were unresponsive from their naps. These include Nicholas, a two-year-old boy, and an eight-month-old girl. During a news conference on Saturday, New York Police Department Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said that they were trying to save the lives of the children, as per CNN. The two children besides Nicholas both survived, and another two-year-old boy, who was taken home by his parents, was said to have acted "lethargic and unresponsive." He was immediately taken to BronxCare Health System, where medical professionals also administered him with Narcan. Photos of the daycare kitchen painted a different scene than the main area where the children are kept. One image featured an open box of Lucky Charms cereal and other snacks as a bag of Lays potato chips was dangerously sitting on a stove burner, said the New York Post. Related Article: 6 'Soldiers of Christ' Arrested in Georgia for Killing Woman Later Found in Car Trunk @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. German climate activists spray painted the historic Brandenburg Gate columns, featuring bright orange and yellow, amid demands to end the use of fossil fuels by 2030. The iconic 18th-century landmark was painted by members of the Letzte Generation, translated to "Last Generation." The incident happened despite Berlin Police trying to stop the protesters from doing any further damage. Brandenburg Gate Spray Painted In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, police said that the members of the Letzte Generation spray painted the columns located on the eastern side of the Brandenburg Gate. The police department added that the personnel at the scene were observed using a hydraulic lift, which prompted officials to keep the climate activists from climbing the landmark. Law enforcement personnel made 14 arrests among on-site protesters and have launched an investigation to assess how much damage was done to the historic property. According to Fox News, the Letzte Generation, based in Germany, is part of the European A22 network. The network includes Britain's Just Stop Oil, which had recently made headlines in the region with hundreds of roadblocks by protestors who glued themselves to the tarmac. The latest effort also sparked a law enforcement crackdown by federal states in Germany. The Letzte Generation also posted on X and shared images of the spray-painted Brandenburg Gate columns, saying that they would not stop unless a pivot is initiated. The group said they must soon exit oil, natural gas, and coal by 2030. The protests come as the German government has set a target of 2045 to become a climate-neutral country but has missed its climate protection targets in the last two years. In a statement, Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner condemned the climate activists' actions, saying that while the country supports "freedom of expression," he does not condone damaging property. Read Also: World Heritage Site of Ancient Jericho Ruins in Palestine Approved by UN Panel Climate Activists Demand End to Fossil Fuels The Letzte Generation has been protesting across Germany since the spring of 2022 and has conducted efforts that targeted political party headquarters, luxury shops, and a private jet at the capital's airport with paint, according to DW News. The activist group's latest protest initiative for Berlin kicked off last Wednesday with a march involving several hundred participants. The Letzte Generation also said that the incident at the Brandenburg Gate was part of a "turning moment" protest against a lack of government action on shifting away from fossil fuels. The group noted that the protest had made it clear that it was time for a political change, going away from fossil fuels and towards fairness. The Letzte Generation is best known for its rallies in German politics and society. Wegner said that with the latest action at the Brandenburg Gate, the group was damaging the historic building and the free discourse about the important issues of our time and future, said WION News. The Brandenburg Gate was built on the orders of Prussian king Frederick William II after he restored the Orangist power by suppressing the Dutch popular unrest. It is considered to be one of the best-known landmarks in Germany. Related Article: Oil Companies Granted Licenses to Store Carbon Under the North Sea, Despite Climate Pledge @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. (Photo : Sean Gallup/Getty Images) NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg warned that the conflict between Russia and Ukraine could extend, urging everyone to be prepared for a "long war." NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg warned that Russia's invasion of Ukraine would not end anytime soon, urging everyone to prepare for a long war. He noted that most wars last longer than what people expect them to last during the time that they began. The NATO chief's remarks came during an interview with Germany's Funke media group published on Sunday. Stoltenberg said that people should be prepared for a long war in Ukraine. NATO Chief Warns of "Long War" Between Russia and Ukraine Stoltenberg said that while everyone wants quick peace, they must also recognize that if Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the Ukrainian people stop fighting, their country will most likely cease to exist. On the other hand, he claims that if Russian President Vladimir Putin stops, then there will be peace. The remarks come as the head of Ukraine's Security Council, Oleksiy Danilov, said that the only way to end the war between Russia and Ukraine is if Kyiv's allies speed up weapons deliveries. He argued that refusal or denial of the transfer of modern weapons to the Ukrainian armed forces is a direct encouragement to the Kremlin to continue its invasion, as per Politico. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian military has continued its counteroffensive against Russia, conducting drone attacks that targeted Crimea and Moscow on Sunday. The alleged attacks disrupted air traffic and caused a fire at an oil depot. The regional governor said that a Ukrainian drone damaged an oil depot on Sunday in southwestern Russia, which sparked a fire at a fuel tank that officials later extinguished. Officials reported another drone was downed in Russia's Voronezh region. Russian missiles on Sunday also struck an agriculture facility located in Ukraine's Odesa region, said Kyiv's military. On the other hand, two cargo ships arrived at a Ukrainian port after traveling through the Black Sea via a new route. The NATO chief also addressed the possibility of Russia using nuclear weapons in its war against Ukraine. He said that Putin's nuclear rhetoric is dangerous and ruthless but ensured that NATO is prepared for every threat and challenge, according to CNN. Read Also: Ukraine Launches Biggest Strike on Russian Base in Crimea, Damages 2 Ships Moscow's Growing Concern Stoltenberg reiterated that it was only a matter of time before Ukraine joined the global military alliance. He said that Kyiv would join NATO as was made clear by all ally members, adding that the region would need safety guarantees when the war finally ends, warning that otherwise, history could repeat itself. The NATO chief also said that they have sent a clear message to Russia: a nuclear war cannot be won and must never happen in the first place. He said that Moscow needs to understand that using such dangerous weapons is unacceptable. On Sunday, the British Defense Ministry said in its daily intelligence update on Russia's war on Ukraine that the former is "likely" reinforcing its defenses around the occupied town of Tokmak located in the southern parts of Ukraine. It is located 16 kilometers from the front line, and it is being outfitted to become what is known as a "lynchpin" of Moscow's second main line of defenses. Officials said that attention to the town's defenses most likely indicates that Russia has a growing concern regarding Ukrainian tactical penetrations of the main defensive line to the north, said the Voice of America News. Related Article: AFP to Increase Presence in West Philippine Sea-Alleging China of Massive Illegal Coral Harvesting @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. LOS ANGELESWicked Sensual Care, the 2023 AVN Best Enhancement Manufacturer Wicked Sensual Care, announced it is shining its Retail Employee Spotlight on Torie Hunter, the manager of Venus at 6780 Arkansas Highway 108 in Texarkana, Arkansas. I got into the adult industry on a whim, as I have always had a strong interest in it, Torie revealed in her interview with Wicked Sensual Care. As soon as I started, I tried to absorb all the information I had access to, like the Williams Trading University, the trade shows, and all of our wonderful sales reps who are always there for us. Ambitious and approachable, Toris love for her chosen field fuels the success she enjoys as the manager of Venus. I am driven by an unyielding passion for the adult industry that has defined my career and propelled me towards success," Hunter says. "This dedication to learning laid the foundation for remarkable growth and accomplishments. These trade shows provided me with invaluable experiences and an opportunity to connect with some of the most influential minds in the business. Through my interactions with such wonderful sales representatives, I not only forged professional relationships but also gained a deeper understanding of the industry's intricacies. Torie is quick to emphasize the importance of social media in curating the image and marketing the products offered by Venus. Being at the forefront of trends is crucial in any industry, and I am no stranger to that philosophy. I pride myself on staying up-to-date with the latest market offerings, making it my personal mission to specialize in the newest items that hit the shelves," she says. "I have taken to TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook to showcase the products available at our various Venus locations. I always want to make customers feel at ease in our stores. I find joy in the uniqueness of each individual's story and take pride in catering to their diverse needs. The dynamic nature of my role ensures that no two days are ever boring, with each interaction leaving a lasting impact on both myself and my customer. "In many ways, Torie personifies the exemplary retail managera seamless fusion of leadership, astute marketing acumen, and an unwavering, customer-centered approach," remarked Jennifer Brice, manager of sales at Wicked Sensual Care. "Her adeptness in this realm is notable through her ability to anticipate and navigate the ever-evolving terrain of adult marketing and merchandising through social media. Her knack for discerning and acting upon nuanced customer preferences elevates the shopping experience to a personal level." Torie is optimistic about what she perceives to be a growing acceptance of the pleasure products industry within the broader retail ecosystem. As the adult industry evolves and sheds its taboo status, I am excited to witness continued growth and transformation," Hunter says. "My positive outlook on the industry's future, coupled with my deep understanding of market trends, leaves me eagerly anticipating the advancements that lie ahead. It is without a doubt that my journey has only just begun, and I hope that my contributions to the adult industry have a lasting impact. Those working in the retail pleasure products space are invited to nominate employees who continuously exceed expectations. Someone may be nominated by sending their name, store/city, and a brief paragraph about why they deserve to be a spotlighted (a photo is optional) to [email protected], or by filling out this form. Individuals may also self-nominate. Each star employee will be profiled in Wicked Sensual Care's monthly newsletter. To learn more about Wicked Sensual Care, visit WickedSensualCare.com. For real-time updates, including sexual health and wellness tips from Resident Sex Educator jessica drake, join the conversation on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. (Photo : Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) United States National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan met with top Chinese Foreign Policy official Wang Yi in Malta to discuss various diplomatic issues. United States National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan met with the top Chinese foreign policy official, Wang Yi, in Malta to negotiate various diplomatic issues. The meeting between the two officials was announced by the White House on Sunday, which said that it was part of the efforts to keep communication open between Washington and Beijing. US and Chinese Officials Meet in Malta Sullivan and Wang met on Saturday and Sunday and the White House's summary of the talks said that the two officials spoke about the relations between their countries. The discussions also focused on Russia's war on Ukraine and the tensions between Washington and Beijing over Taiwan. During a telephone briefing on Sunday, a senior White House official said that Sullivan reiterated American concerns about recent Chinese military actions regarding Taiwan and other coercive activities. They added that any dispute or conflict between the countries must be resolved peacefully. The official added that the national security adviser stressed that Moscow should not try to avoid Russia in its war on Ukraine. The main issue of the concerns pertains to the US intelligence assessment. Since the winter, China has considered sending weapons to Russian President Vladimir Putin to use in his war, per the New York Times. On Sunday, the Chinese government issued a summary that said Wang stressed that the Taiwan issue was a "red line" for China. This language was consistent with the long-running view among Beijing's leaders. Additionally, the summary said that officials talked about matters related to the Asia-Pacific region, the Korean Peninsula, and Ukraine. They also supposedly discussed measures for "personnel exchanges" between the two countries. The White House's summary of the discussions noted that Sullivan and Wang agreed that the American and Chinese governments would "pursue additional high-level engagement and consultations in key areas." According to The Guardian, a senior Biden administration official added that there have been some small or limited indications that China was ready to reopen some cross-military communications used to de-escalate conflict between the two nations. Read Also: AFP to Increase Presence in West Philippine Sea-Alleging China of Massive Illegal Coral Harvesting Open Lines of Communication Those ties were initially cut following a visit to Taiwan by former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in August 2022. The last meeting between Sullivan and Wang was in May, which was four months after Biden ordered fighter jets to shoot down a Chinese-operated balloon off the US coast The White House said the US noted the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. It added that the two officials "committed to maintain the strategic channel of communication." The Chinese version of the summary also noted that the two sides conducted "candid, substantive, and constructive strategic communication." The development comes as China has accused the US of weaponizing tech and trade issues under the guise of national security. On the other hand, Washington warned Beijing against its continued military ambitions in Taiwan and the Pacific. Additionally, the US has forged security alliances in the Pacific to counter growing Chinese influence in the region, said Aljazeera. Related Article: NATO Chief Urges World To Prepare for 'Long War' Between Russia, Ukraine @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer quietly axed the US Senate's dress code. He sent the new directive after Sen. John Fetterman was criticized for his trademark fashion. US Senate's Dress Code Quietly Removed by Chuck Schumer According to Fox News' latest report, the US Senate will no longer require upper house members to be elected by those they serve to follow the traditional dress code. But, it was clarified that this change only applies to senators. This means that other people entering the chamber, such as media correspondents, must still comply with the dress code: coat & ties (for men) and business attire (for women). "Senators are able to choose what they wear on the Senate floor. I will continue to wear a suit," said Schumer via Axios. The majority leader confirmed that the dress code adjustment will go into effect before September ends. Senators and other individuals entering the Senate chamber have been wearing professional attires for years. Removing the dress code will change this tradition, allowing senators to enter the Senate chamber even after going to the gym. It is unclear if the dress code removal is an official, written policy as of press time. But, based on the details shared by Schumer, it is an informal custom enforced by the Sergeant at Arms. Read Also: Anna Gomez Nomination: Senate Confirms Biden's FCC Pick Will Senators Follow John Fetterman's Fashion Style? Schumer decided to issue the dress code directive to the Senate's Sergent at Arms after conservatives criticized Fetterman's fashion style. If you are watching the live streams of the US Senate, you will know that Fetterman recently wore a hoodie, sneakers, and gym shorts. Many individuals bashed his attire, saying that Fetterman's fashion was disrespectful. Some people even connected his fashion to his lack of respect for the US institution. "John Fetterman's attire in the Senate perfectly summarizes Democrats' lack of respect for Americans and our institutions," said Tim Young, a conservative comedian. While others bash the senator, there are those who are amused with his fashion. One of them is Democrat Vermont Sen. Peter Welch, who said that Fetterman is now a joyful person after he started setting his own dress code. With the new dress code adjustment, criticisms against Fetterman could subside since he can now wear his gym shorts and hoodies. However, there's a chance that many senators will still wear professional attire since it has been their tradition. Related Article: Ken Paxton Impeachment: Senate Begins Deliberations for Texas Attorney General @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. (Photo : Bill Pugliano/Getty Images) Republicans are taking advantage of the United Auto Workers' (UAW) strike to gain traction in Michigan as the union is seeking to have higher wages for workers. Republican lawmakers are taking advantage of the United Auto Workers (UAW) strike as a potential lifeline in Michigan to reclaim the Senate and the White House. The GOP is seeking the UAW walkout to win in the state, where politically weakened Republicans are planning ways to take advantage of the tension between Democrats' clean-energy agenda and their pro-labor roots. United Auto Workers Strike Additionally, United States President Joe Biden is pressing for more electric vehicles to achieve his climate goals. However, workers who produce parts such as batteries for those vehicles are often non-union and make less money for their efforts. In a statement, Rep. Lisa McClain said that the Biden administration caused the recent development by pushing policies that killed off people's jobs. She argued that putting climate change policies over people is ridiculous. In recent cycles, Democrats dominated in statewide races, with Biden winning in 2020 and the left retaking the state legislature and governor's mansion. On the other hand, the Republican Party is largely in shambles in the state, and the national party has not won a Senate seat in Michigan since 1994, as per Politico. While it's still too early to know just how long the UAW strike might go on, the walkout has already added building pressure on Biden to work with both sides to reach a deal before 150,000 union members across several other states make similar efforts that would potentially spur major economic consequences. Republican campaigns and national party leaders will monitor the state of play and polling in the coming days and weeks as they determine how much to lean into attacks on the left's clean energy agenda. Former United States President Donald Trump is also jockeying for a UAW endorsement for his 2024 White House campaign run. The Republican, weighing a trip to Michigan, urged the union to place the repeal of Biden's Electric Vehicle mandate at the top of their list of demands. Read Also: Staten Island Ferry Deal: NYC Signs Deal Providing $103 Million Back Pay to Workers Demand for Higher Wages The UAW strike argues that workers should get salary increases if Detroit's three automakers raised CEO pay by 40% over the past four years. UAW President Shawn Fain repeatedly cited that the CEO wage increase contrasted with the 6% pay raise autoworkers received since their last contract in 2019. According to the Associated Press, the union has since lowered its demand to a 36% wage increase, but the two sides remain at an impasse. UAW leaders also demand a four-day workweek, more paid time off, and pension benefits. Fain said that their demands are just and noted that they are asking for their fair share in the economy and the fruits of their labor. On Saturday, Chrysler's parent company, Stellantis, said it had put a cumulative 21% wage increase on the table, with an immediate 10% raise upon a formal agreement. In response, the UAW president said that the offer was a no-go. According to CBS News, Fain added that autoworkers were fed up with falling behind, arguing that companies had massive profits in the last decade while workers were going backward. Related Article: Labor Groups, Fast Food Companies in California Strike Deal To Raise Workers' Minimum Salary to $20 Per Hour @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. (Photo : U.S. Navy photo courtesy Lockheed Martin via Getty Images) IN AIR, NAVAL AIR STATION PATUXENT RIVER, MD - FEBRUARY 11: (EDITORS NOTE: Image has been received by U.S. Military prior to transmission) In this image released by the U.S. Navy courtesy of Lockheed Martin, the U.S. Navy variant of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, the F-35C, conducts a test flight February 11, 2011 over the Chesapeake Bay. Lt. Cmdr. Eric "Magic" Buus flew the F-35C for two hours, checking instruments that will measure structural loads on the airframe during flight maneuvers. The F-35C is distinct from the F-35A and F-35B variants with larger wing surfaces and reinforced landing gear for greater control when operating in the demanding carrier take-off and landing environment. A South Carolina military airbase has issued an urgent appeal to the public for assistance locating a missing Marine Corps fighter aircraft after its pilot was forced to eject from it on Sunday afternoon. The incident has prompted Marine Corps investigators to launch a comprehensive inquiry into the circumstances surrounding what has been described as a mishap, according to ABC News. Urgent Search Underway for Missing F-35 Jet The dramatic incident unfolded over North Charleston on a sunny Sunday afternoon when an F-35 fighter aircraft from the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort experienced a critical issue. In response to the emergency, the aircraft's pilot initiated an ejection sequence and safely ejected from the plane. The pilot's quick thinking and training paid off, as he parachuted down to safety, landing just a few hundred yards away from the airbase, specifically in South Kenwood Drive. Prompt medical attention was provided, ensuring the pilot's well-being. Meanwhile, the pilot's wingman, accompanying the aircraft, managed to safely land at Joint Base Charleston without any complications. The skillful actions of both pilots undoubtedly contributed to averting a more catastrophic outcome. In a tweet issued shortly after the incident, Joint Base Charleston urgently appealed to the public, stating, "If you have any information on the whereabouts of the F-35, please call our Base Defense Operations Center at 843-963-3600." This plea reflects the seriousness of the situation and underscores the importance of locating the missing aircraft promptly. Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, located approximately 35 miles southwest of Charleston, serves as a vital hub for several 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing units, including the Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501, which operates F-35B Lightning IIs. The base spans an impressive 6,900 acres and houses around 4,700 military personnel, USA Today reported. Read Also: Venice and Its Lagoon Avoid Inclusion on UNESCO List of Heritage Sites in Danger Military Airbase's Crucial Training Facilities and Recent Tragedy One significant aspect of this airbase is its extensive training facilities, which include a large air-to-air combat area off the coast of South Carolina and Georgia. Additionally, it boasts an air-to-ground combat and bombing range located in Georgia's McIntosh County. These assets are crucial for preparing military personnel for real-world scenarios and ensuring their readiness. Unfortunately, this incident comes shortly after the loss of Major Andrew Mettler, a highly decorated Marine Corps pilot Tragically, Major Mettler lost his life last month when his F/A-18D Hornet crashed near Marine Corps Air Station Miramar during a training flight. The crash occurred just before midnight on August 24, serving as a sad reminder of the inherent risks faced by military aviators. Remarkably, this incident represents the fifth Class-A aviation mishap of the current fiscal year, which denotes accidents involving damage exceeding $2 million or fatalities. This is the first Class-A mishap involving a Marine Corps aircraft, according to Task & Purpose. As the search for the missing F-35 fighter aircraft intensifies, the Marine Corps and local authorities are working diligently to recover the aircraft and ensure the safety of the surrounding community. Public cooperation and assistance will play a pivotal role in expediting the resolution of this critical situation and preventing further mishaps in the future. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and risks faced by those in the nation's armed forces, even during routine training exercises, as per the Daily Mail. Related Article: US Aims to Access More Philippine Bases to Strengthen Alliance, Deter Beijing @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The UK's National Health Service (NHS) said that the doctors' strikes, expected to happen before September ends, are concerning. The health organization's officials explained why patients and staff should be concerned about the upcoming protest. NHS Concerned by Doctors' Strike The Guardian reported that European consultants and junior doctors are planning to conduct major strikes. This will be the first time that junior doctors and consultants will do joint protests in escalating pay disputes. Recently, junior doctors have already staged five days of strikes. Now, they are organizing new protests scheduled from Sept. 20 until Sept. 22. Because of this, NHS trust leaders expressed their serious concerns since doctors' strikes could drastically affect the patient care sector. NHS Providers Deputy Chief Executive Saffron Cordery said that the upcoming protests of doctors and consultants could cause patient care disruption "unlike anything we've seen before." "The continuing dispute - and the absence of meaningful dialogue between the two sides - is worrying for patients, demoralizing for staff, and damaging for the NHS," she said. Europe has been receiving reports regarding numerous operation delays for the past weeks. This forced one of the NHS trust leaders to deploy volunteers to support patients with drinks and meals and offer company in the emergency department during doctors' protests. Cordery explained that while doctors conduct their strikes, patients are the ones who are paying the price as their quality of life continues to deteriorate due to multiple healthcare delays. Read Also: Biden Admin Pressuring Insurers to Cover Mental Health Care or Face Penalties What Europe's Doctors Are Asking For? It may sound selfish, but striking doctors and other health employees are protesting for the betterment of their patients and colleagues. Euro News reported that doctors across Europe are striking because of the poor working conditions that put their patients and themselves at risk. Dr. Federico di Renzo, an Autonomous Union of Italian Doctors member, said they are asking for the government to re-balance the healthcare system. Specifically, they are requesting that officials improve the recruitment quality in the patient care sector and increase the salaries that doctors and other medical employees receive. Sarada Das, the Secretary General of the Standing Committee of European Doctors, also said that the European government must invest in workforce planning in the healthcare industry. These are just some of the things that striking doctors and consultants want. If you want to learn more about the things they fight for, you can click here. Related Article: UK's Gonorrhea Cases Hit Record Levels; UKHSA Warns Young People, Especially College Students @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. (Photo : Chris McGrath/Getty Images) LAMPEDUSA, ITALY - MAY 24: Refugees and migrants put on life jackets distributed by rescue crews of the Migrant Offshore Aid Station (MOAS) 'Phoenix' vessel on May 24, 2017 off Lampedusa, Italy. The boat, one of three in the area later capsized killing more than 30 people, crewmembers from the 'Phoenix' rescued 603 people. Numbers of refugees and migrants attempting the dangerous central Mediterranean crossing from Libya to Italy has risen since the same time last year with more than 43,000 people recorded so far in 2017. In an attempt to slow the flow of migrants Italy recently signed a deal with Libya, Chad and Niger outlining a plan to increase border controls and add new reception centers in the African nations, which are key transit points for migrants heading to Italy. MOAS is a Malta based NGO dedicated to providing professional search-and-rescue assistance to refugees and migrants in distress at sea. Since the start of the year MOAS have rescued and assisted 3572 people and are currently patrolling and running rescue operations in international waters off the coast of Libya. European Union Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni embarked on a tour of a migrant center on the tiny Italian island of Lampedusa, where they confronted the ongoing migrant crisis that has deeply affected the region. The migrant center on Lampedusa recently faced an overwhelming influx of nearly 7,000 migrants within 24 hours, roughly equivalent to the island's entire population, as per VOA News. EU Leaders Confront Mounting Migrant Crisis During Lampedusa Visit Residents of Italy's southernmost island expressed their growing frustration with the constant stream of arrivals on their tiny island, which has struggled for years to manage the ongoing crisis. Lampedusa's strategic location, situated less than 160 kilometers from Tunisia, makes it a logical first stop for migrants seeking a better life in Europe and beyond. Many undertake the perilous journey in rickety boats, often requiring rescue by the Coast Guard, and tragically, not all survive the treacherous voyage. Among the recent casualties was a 5-month-old baby, a stark reminder of the human cost of these dangerous journeys. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who assumed office last year, has made ending mass migrations a cornerstone of her leadership. Her visit alongside Ursula von der Leyen aimed to address the pressing challenges faced by Lampedusa. Television footage captured the politicians engaging with residents during their three-hour visit, which included stops at an overcrowded reception center and a site near the port containing the remains of flimsy boats used by migrants. This visit followed a dramatic surge in arrivals, with nearly 8,500 people landing on the island within three days, surpassing the island's population of 6,000. The tragic death of a newborn, who passed away shortly after birth on a boat carrying 40 passengers, deeply moved the community. Last week, another heart-wrenching incident occurred when a five-month-old boy drowned during a rescue operation. Recently, chaotic scenes unfolded at the reception center, designed to accommodate only 400 people. Migrants were left sleeping on the streets strewn with refuse while others attempted to escape over fences. However, by the time Meloni and Von der Leyen arrived, most migrants had been relocated to Sicily or mainland Italy centers, restoring a sense of order around the center. In recognition of the immense challenges faced by Lampedusa, Meloni's far-right government allocated close to $50 million to support the island in managing the unprecedented influx of migrants. Despite this financial aid, some residents argue that more is needed to address the magnitude of the crisis. Prime Minister Meloni expressed her concerns, stating that the ongoing influx poses a significant threat to the future of Europe and demands serious solutions. She emphasized the importance of cracking down on human traffickers, expeditiously deporting illegal immigrants, and swiftly implementing a deal signed earlier this year with Tunisia. Ursula von der Leyen, echoing Meloni's sentiments, pledged to accelerate the deportation process for those not qualifying for asylum and combat the brutal business of people smuggling. She asserted, "We will decide who comes to the European Union and under what circumstances. Not the smugglers." Von der Leyen presented a 10-point plan, including supporting Italy in processing new arrivals and exploring options to expand existing naval missions in the Mediterranean or initiate new ones. She called on EU member states to utilize a mechanism to accept migrants to alleviate Italy's burden voluntarily. Despite these efforts, migrants continue arriving on Lampedusa, most departing from Tunisia. A controversial 105 million ($130 Million) deal to stem irregular migration, signed by Meloni and Von der Leyen in July, has not seen any financial transactions. Critics argue that the number of migrants crossing from Tunisia to Italy has surged by nearly 70% since the agreement, attributed partly to favorable weather conditions, WIO News reported. Read Also: World Heritage Site of Ancient Jericho Ruins in Palestine Approved by UN Panel Italy's Migrant Surge So far in 2023, over 127,000 people have arrived on Italian soil, more than double the number over the same period last year, underscoring the gravity of the situation. Lampedusa, near Tunisia compared to Sicily, has grappled with migration from North Africa for over three decades. Concerned residents have voiced their apprehensions about the island's transformation into a "tent city." Prime Minister Meloni, who campaigned on a promise to halt illegal immigration, is banking on the Tunisia deal to offer a viable solution. The EU has committed to disbursing the budget allocated to Tunisia, currently refitting 17 vessels for Tunisian authorities to use in search and rescue operations. However, a group of MEPs from the European Parliament was denied entry to Tunisia, raising fresh concerns about President Kais Saied's commitment to addressing human rights abuses. Saied asserted that Tunisia would not serve as Europe's border guard. The EU migration pact, championed by Meloni and endorsed by the rest of Europe, reflects the significance of the migration issue in elections across the continent, particularly in Poland and the Netherlands. Under the Tunisia deal, an additional 150 million is available to support economic reforms and foster industrial ties with Europe, including green energy initiatives. The ongoing efforts signal the collective determination of European leaders to address the complex and pressing challenges associated with migration in the region, according to The Guardian. Related Article: India Rushes To Contain Deadly Nipah Virus After Confirmed Cases Rise @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Apple claims the alarming iPhone 12 radiation issue only needs a software update. But is this solution enough for the French government to consider resuming iOS smartphone sales? Apple Claims iPhone 12 Radiation Issue Only Needs Software Update According to Android Authority's latest report, Apple contested France's findings regarding the iPhone 12 radiation levels. The giant gadget maker said that its iOS smartphone was certified as a complaint with the global SAR standards. Although this is the case, the iPhone maker still offered a solution to France's concerns. Apple promised that the iPhone 12 would receive a software update designed to fix the radiation level problem. "We will issue a software update for users in France to accommodate the protocol used by French regulators," said the tech giant firm. Apple expects the software update to encourage the French government to reverse its iPhone 12 ban. "We look forward to iPhone 12 continuing to be available in France," said the iPhone maker. The iPhone 12 software update can ease France's concerns regarding the gadget's radiation levels. The French government said it would quickly test the software update once available. If this solution is proven effective, officials will return the sales of the iPhone 12. Read Also: Google To Continue Support of Chromebook, Announces New 10-Year Update Policy France Tests iPhone 12's SAR Reuters reported that France's ANFR (Agence Nationale des Frequences) tested the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) of the iPhone 12. For those unfamiliar with SAR, it is the measure of the rate of radiofrequency energy absorbed by the human body from gadgets. Based on ANFR's findings, the iPhone 12's SAR is higher than the legally allowed. On Tuesday, Sept. 12, the agency explained that this is the main reason the Apple handset sales were banned in the country. Since the SAR level issue of the iPhone 12 is very alarming, other countries followed France's decision to restrict sales. These include the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. The Dutch Digital Infrastructure Agency recently agreed to France's radiation level findings, saying that iPhone 12's levels exceeded the allowed amount. Meanwhile, Belgium conducted a review to assess the health risks posed by the iPhone 12 SAR issue. Germany's BNetzA network agency said that France's iPhone 12 investigation could result in measures that apply to all EU member countries. Related Article: Online Safety Bill: Campaigner, Father of Suicide Victim Urges UK Regulator to Act Fast After Bill Passes @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. SAN DIEGOSumner and newcomer Matthew Ellis join forces in a new Sean Cody scene, "Sumner & Matthew." The scene marks the new creative direction of the brand. The new creative direction, which includes the addition of subscription content, will be introduced over the next few months alongside a slew of new and familiar faces. In the scene, Ellis demonstrates to the viewer the proper form for squats and lunges. Sumner enters the gym in time to get a view of Ellis' ass as he does leg lifts, and Sumner touches himself as he watches. Afterward, he invites Ellis to join him in the locker room. Australian model Ellis recently fronted Sean Codys new merchandise campaign that showcased the brands new black and white jockstraps. Last year, the gay porn studio launched a one-stop-shop for all merchandise where fans can purchase swim briefs and classic grey boxers with the signature Sean Cody branding on the elastic band. Other items include classic staples (t-shirts, dad hats) and seasonal apparel (hoodies, beanies, crewnecks, tanks, beach towels). Sumner and Matthews new scene debuts on Friday, Sept. 22, available exclusively on SeanCodyApparel.com. Follow the brand on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok. Also, follow Matthew Ellis and Sumner on X. The reason Western Media is hyping this iPhone ban disinformation is that they are well aware that Huawei's new 5G smartphone release, the Mate 60 Pro is a symbolic victory for Huawei and China as a whole by defying US sanctions. Huawei and Xiaomis global patent cross-licensing agreement covers multiple communications technologies including 5G. After all, the Mate 60 Pro and the coming Mate 60 Pro+ will be the most important of the year. The Kirin 9000S chip is built on 7 nanometres with a modem that can connect to 5G networks. The chip performs as it should while running on Harmony OS 4, a self-developed OS and satellite connectivity... 2023-09-16 Raffles Boston, a 35-Story Sustainable New-Build Hotel with 147 Guestrooms, Debuted. Raffles Boston, the stunning hotel from the illustrious hospitality brand, Raffles Hotels & Resorts, opened its doors to guests last week, September 15, 2023. The property represents the first mixed-use development in North America for the 136-year-old brand, marking a new era for the legendary collection. Offering an urban oasis in the heart of Back Bay, Raffles Boston features 147 sumptuous guestrooms and a wide variety of distinct gathering spaces for guests, residents and locals to discover. Upon entering Raffles Boston, guests ascend to the hotel's 17th floor, where a three-story Sky Lobby awaits, and a Grand Stair, iconic of the Raffles brand, spirals through the atrium. More than a place to check-in for a hotel stay, this soaring space connects guests for socializing, and offers four distinct food & beverage venues. Dining experiences include Amar by Chef George Mendes, the signature restaurant serving modern Portuguese cuisine with influences from Boston's seafaring culture, the Long Bar & Terrace, a Paolo Ferrari-designed lounge pairing cocktails with sweeping views of the South End, and a Speakeasy offering specially crafted cocktails and small bites. Also on the 17th floor is the Raffles Writer's Lounge, a signature Raffles space made famous for the esteemed writers and poets who have frequented it within the flagship Raffles Singapore and a number of other Raffles hotels around the world. On the 4th floor, guests will find sanctuary in an exclusive state-of-the-art gym, 20-meter indoor pool with expansive city views and the prestigious Guerlain Spa at Raffles Boston, featuring treatments in partnership with the renowned Parisian beauty and wellness brand. Raffles Boston will reinforce the city's global reputation as a first-class international destination. Residing next to The University Club and adjacent to Boston's Back Bay train station, Raffles Boston sits within a block of Copley Square, Trinity Church and premiere luxury shopping at Copley Place. Other notable Boston attractions nearby include the world-renowned shops and galleries of Newbury Street and the Prudential Center, Fenway Park, the Museum of Fine Arts, Symphony Hall, the Charles River Esplanade, and dozens of restaurants, bars and cafes. The property's thoughtful, locally inspired design enhances the warm, cosmopolitan charm of the Back Bay, while simultaneously transporting its visitors to a tranquil urban oasis. The Architectural Team (TAT) Inc. designed the building's exterior architecture while award-winning hospitality design firm Stonehill Taylor fashioned all hotel rooms and several hotel amenity spaces, and the acclaimed Rockwell Group designed the Fitness Center and Spa, as well as the Raffles' Residences, which are available for purchase. A predominantly local team, united by its members' deep appreciation for Boston, leads Raffles Boston. The development team is a partnership of locals Jordan Warshaw of The Noannet Group and hotelier Gary Saunders of Saunders Hotel Group, alongside their global development and equity partner Cain International, Madison Realty Capital provided construction financing. Hotel website Today, in the best marketing teams, nothing is improvised. Data is the most valuable asset for these teams, and decisions, strategies, and campaigns are based on it. Marketers in the hospitality industry have embraced this trend, but the data and skills to use it wisely are still lacking in many teams and companies in the sector. Just like marketing specialists, industry leaders and executives must understand data-driven marketing in order to reap its benefits. Heres a breakdown of the trends that are shaping this practice and some tools and tips for getting the most out of the current data tsumani that the digital world is experiencing. Whats Changed Recently in Data-Driven Marketing? During the COVID-19 pandemic, the retail sector experienced 10 years of growth in digital penetration in a matter of 3 months, according to a report by McKinsey, and rather than sticking to familiar patterns and brands, 40 percent of consumers tried new brands or retailers. In this context, data-driven marketing became much more important and more complex. As more people of all ages turn to online shopping and contactless payments, more data is being generated, and this data is extremely valuable for brands. Unfortunately, the resulting boom in data has not provided all marketers with a better understanding of their clients. The reason is that many companies' use antiquated data modeling systems that are incapable of capturing and analyzing data with the granularity and speed required. Why is Data-Driven Marketing Important? Understanding customers and improving ROI are the major goals of data-driven marketing, and these two goals are a high priority for most executives. According to a global survey conducted by Hospitality Technology, 86% of industry executives believe that data can help their companies become more profitable. Indeed, they are correct! According to a study by Ascend 2, data-driven marketing: Improves the ability to acquire new customers by 45%; Increases decision-making effectiveness by 51%; Makes new offers and product launches up to 66% more accurate, by considering the target audience. The combination of these factors translates into higher ROI and profitability. Yet, many companies dont allocate enough resources and budget to improve the way they collect, interpret and use data for marketing purposes. What is Data-driven Marketing? WPP plc, the largest multinational digital marketing agency, defines data-driven marketing as a strategic approach that utilizes data and analytics to optimize marketing activities and drive better business outcomes. According to the Data-Driven Marketing Trends Report, the Key Objectives for Data-Driven Marketing are: Targeting individual market segments; Personalizing the customer experience; Acquiring new customers; Improving data quality; Integrating data across platforms; Raising level of data analytical skills; Growing the marketing database. How is Data-driven Marketing Used in the Hospitality Industry? Data-driven marketing is a powerful tool used in the hospitality industry to enhance the customer experience, improve operations, and increase profitability. The primary use of this marketing paradigm in hospitality is customer segmentation and personalization. These actions hold great power. Does your marketing team already know that 78% of travelers are more likely to book services that offer personalized experiences? This data point demonstrates the power of using data to segment audiences and provide personalized experiences. By analyzing customer data, such as demographics, preferences, and behaviors, hotels and resorts can segment their target audience more effectively. This targeting enables personalized marketing campaigns tailored to specific customer segments, resulting in higher engagement and conversion rates. In addition to conversions, data-driven marketing nurtures relationships with current customers. The Data Marketing Paradigm The most efficient marketing approaches are made possible by consolidating customer data from diverse interaction points, including website activities, reservation history, and social media participation. By doing this, hotels can obtain an all-encompassing understanding of their clientele. This empowers them to customize interactions, offer bespoke suggestions, and predict customer requirements, thereby nurturing enduring allegiance. In addition to the main goal of enhancing the experience and taking care of customers, this marketing paradigm is used to: Streamline processes: By leveraging customer data, market trends, and predictive analytics, hotels and other businesses in the hospitality sector can make informed decisions and optimize their efforts quickly. It also helps streamline customer service processes by knowing, for example, which types of breakfast are most requested, what are the most common check-in hours, and other relevant data. By leveraging customer data, market trends, and predictive analytics, hotels and other businesses in the hospitality sector can make informed decisions and optimize their efforts quickly. It also helps streamline customer service processes by knowing, for example, which types of breakfast are most requested, what are the most common check-in hours, and other relevant data. Optimize marketing spend: Data-driven marketing helps optimize revenue management strategies in the hospitality industry. By analyzing historical data, market trends, and demand patterns, hotels can dynamically adjust pricing, promotions, and availability to maximize revenue and occupancy rates. Data-driven marketing helps optimize revenue management strategies in the hospitality industry. By analyzing historical data, market trends, and demand patterns, hotels can dynamically adjust pricing, promotions, and availability to maximize revenue and occupancy rates. Improve online reputation: A business with a good online reputation will always have an advantageous position. Data-driven insights help hotels monitor and manage their online reputation. By analyzing guest reviews, sentiment analysis, and social media mentions, businesses can identify areas for improvement, address customer concerns, and proactively manage their online brand image. In summary, by leveraging data-driven marketing strategies, the hospitality industry can enhance customer experiences, drive revenue growth, and gain a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market. What is needed for a Data-Driven marketing strategy? Implementing data-driven marketing doesn't just require knowledge. Awareness of the importance of data is also not enough. A data-driven marketing strategy requires several key elements to be effective. Here are the essential components: Data Collection: The first step is to collect relevant data from various sources, such as customer interactions, website analytics, social media platforms, and CRM systems. This data can include demographics, browsing behavior, purchase history, and customer preferences. The first step is to collect relevant data from various sources, such as customer interactions, website analytics, social media platforms, and CRM systems. This data can include demographics, browsing behavior, purchase history, and customer preferences. Data Integration: Data becomes valuable when it is connected and related to marketing objectives. The collected data needs to be integrated and organized in a central database or data management platform (DMP). This enables a comprehensive view of customer information and facilitates analysis and segmentation. Data becomes valuable when it is connected and related to marketing objectives. The collected data needs to be integrated and organized in a central database or data management platform (DMP). This enables a comprehensive view of customer information and facilitates analysis and segmentation. Data Analysis: Analyzing the collected data is crucial for deriving insights and identifying patterns, trends, and correlations. Data analysis techniques, such as statistical analysis, data mining, and machine learning, help extract valuable information from the data. Analyzing the collected data is crucial for deriving insights and identifying patterns, trends, and correlations. Data analysis techniques, such as statistical analysis, data mining, and machine learning, help extract valuable information from the data. Data optimization: A data-driven marketing strategy requires continuous measurement and optimization. Key performance indicators (KPIs) should be defined to evaluate the effectiveness of marketing efforts. Testing and experimentation help optimize campaigns and identify strategies that yield the best results. Data Quality: How to Improve It? The reliability, accuracy, and relevance of the data are crucial in providing reliable results. In addition to fulfilling the above mentioned steps to collect, integrate, and analyze data, you must evaluate the quality of the data and seek to improve it. According to the Data-Driven Marketing Trends Report, only 16% of companies consider the data they collect and analyze to be of very high quality. You should strive to belong to that group. To assist you with this process, a wide range of AI-powered data analysis tools exist online, making it easy to create visual dashboards and reports using the data you have. The use of AI can provide a more agile operational model and assist you in interpreting the data. The advantage of these tools is that you can define parameters for AI to analyze, discarding irrelevant data and providing you with valuable insights for decision-making. Don't forget legality and transparency In addition to the strategic elements of data management, you need to consider legality and transparency. Respecting customer privacy and adhering to data protection regulations is paramount. Implementing robust data security measures and obtaining proper consent for data usage are essential for building trust with customers. Here are two key players in this arena: The General Data Protection Regulation of the European Union sets the mechanisms to follow in the region and provides references to consolidate transparency. Regulatory frameworks from other latitudes, such as the NIST from the United States, also provide powerful insights to develop a data collection and management model that is transparent and respects user privacy. In summary, data-driven marketing is essential for success in todays competitive digital world, and its up to marketing managers and C-level leaders to give it the resources and the budget to make it really work. Overall, data-driven marketing works best with extensive data collection, effective analysis technologies, and a continuous improvement approach to data handling. All these elements will allow for comprehensive data management, which supports a continuous cycle of analysis and improvement. By incorporating these elements into a marketing strategy, your marketing team can leverage data to gain valuable insights, improve targeting and personalization, optimize campaigns, and ultimately drive better business outcomes. 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 View source Raffles Boston Hotel Opens Raffles Boston opened its doors to guests last Friday. The property represents the first mixed-use development in North America for the 136-year-old brand. Raffles Boston features 147 guestrooms and a wide variety of distinct gathering spaces for guests, residents and locals to discover. We are delighted to extend the legendary Raffles brand into the Americas with Raffles Boston, and are incredibly grateful to the dynamic ownership teams from Cain International, Noannet Group and Saunders Hotel Group for their trust in, and commitment to, the Raffles brand. said Omer Acar, CEO of Raffles & Orient Express. Raffles properties act as vessels for generations of world travelers to explore destinations through the highest level of hospitality and gracious service. Boston represents a historic and sophisticated cultural hub in the United States, and we could not imagine a more well-suited city to play host to the Raffles experience for years to come. Upon entering Raffles Boston, guests ascend to the hotels 17th floor, where a three-story Sky Lobby awaits, and a Grand Stair, iconic of the Raffles brand, spirals through the atrium. More than a place to check-in for a hotel stay, this soaring space connects guests for socializing, and offers four distinct food & beverage venues. Dining experiences include Amar by Chef George Mendes, the signature restaurant serving modern Portuguese cuisine with influences from Bostons seafaring culture, the Long Bar & Terrace, a Paolo Ferrari-designed lounge pairing cocktails with sweeping views of the South End, and a Speakeasy offering specially crafted cocktails and small bites. Also on the 17th floor is the Raffles Writers Lounge, a signature Raffles space made famous for the esteemed writers and poets who have frequented it within the flagship Raffles Singapore and a number of other Raffles hotels around the world. On the 4th floor, guests will find sanctuary in an exclusive state-of-the-art gym, 20-meter indoor pool with expansive city views and the prestigious Guerlain Spa at Raffles Boston, featuring treatments in partnership with the renowned Parisian beauty and wellness brand. Advertisement Residing next to The University Club and adjacent to Bostons Back Bay train station, Raffles Boston sits within a block of Copley Square, Trinity Church and premiere luxury shopping at Copley Place. Other notable Boston attractions nearby include the world-renowned shops and galleries of Newbury Street and the Prudential Center, Fenway Park, the Museum of Fine Arts, Symphony Hall, the Charles River Esplanade, and dozens of restaurants, bars and cafes. It is an honor to officially unveil Raffles Boston and commence the next chapter of the Raffles story in this extraordinary and historic city, said Oliver Dudler, General Manager of Raffles Boston. Years in the making, this hotel will transport the legacy of the Raffles brand to Boston, welcoming travelers and locals alike to experience its allure from impeccable design and exceptional food & beverage programming, to indulgent wellness offerings and world-class service. Cain International, Noannet Group and Saunders Hotel Group added: The opening of Raffles Boston is a historic moment for the City of Boston as it brings this iconic hospitality brand to North America. We extend our deepest appreciation to Mayor Wu and elected officials, as well as to our neighbors, for helping us bring this spectacular development to life. Just like Boston, Raffles is intrinsically global and local, historic and modern. We are so thrilled to welcome residents, travelers and diners alike to the Raffles Boston experience." The propertys thoughtful, locally inspired design enhances the warm, cosmopolitan charm of the Back Bay, while simultaneously transporting its visitors to a tranquil urban oasis. The Architectural Team (TAT) Inc. designed the buildings exterior architecture while award-winning hospitality design firm Stonehill Taylor fashioned all hotel rooms and several hotel amenity spaces, and the acclaimed Rockwell Group designed the Fitness Center and Spa, as well as the Raffles Residences, which are available for purchase. A predominantly local team, united by its members deep appreciation for Boston, leads Raffles Boston. The development team is a partnership of locals Jordan Warshaw of The Noannet Group and hotelier Gary Saunders of Saunders Hotel Group, alongside their global development and equity partner Cain International, Madison Realty Capital provided construction financing. Revenue Management: It's Not Just for Revenue Managers Anymore How often have you seen this at your hotel: Sales managers referring to the revenue management team as the sales prevention department because they keep turning away their leads? Front office complaining about how revenue management keeps selling low opaque rates? Or event managers showing up to pick-up meetings without the answers to the questions they know they will be asked. It doesnt have to be like this. During more than ten years of on-property revenue management, I experienced this firsthand. I would speak with angry front office agents about how they had walked guests the night before. I would be embroiled in adversarial discussions with sales managers about needing to shift their groups pattern. I would sit through painful pick-up meetings with conference managers who resented all of my questions about their groups room blocks. But when I explained to the front desk agents that we oversell because we expect cancellations, and doing so saves us from going down with empty (and how these decisions are based on history and estimates, and sometimes more guests show up than we expected), their faces would soften, and they would nod in understanding. When I explained to sales managers that we would sell out on the peak nights of the group at a much higher rate, but we could offer availability (at a lower rate!) if we shifted the peak to a night with lower demand, their posture would relax, and the challenge would energize them. When I explained to event managers how the group pick-up forecast is the foundation of all short- to mid-term hotel decisions, walked them through the STR report, and started to show them the correlation between high forecast accuracy and high RevPAR indexes, pick-up meetings became celebratory and fun. A little explanation goes a long way in gaining buy-in from those implementing your strategies on the front lines. But my mission to educate all corners of the hospitality industry comes from an even deeper place. Long before I was explaining revenue management to sales and operations, I was one of those bewildered and resentful sales managers myself. I would approach our director of revenue for approval on a group quote, and she would turn me away with talk of undesirable pattern and poor rooms-to-space ratio. I would return to my desk, angry and frustrated. I became more interested in understanding her thought process than in prospecting for new business. The more I learned, the more the pieces fell into place. In hindsight, I would have made much more money for the hotels I sold for (and myself) if I knew then what I know now about revenue management. The revenue management discipline has come a long way since I started selling in 2002, but it is still a black box that few people on the outside understand. And with all due respect to my fellow revenue managers, as a discipline, we do a poor job of letting outsiders see inside. In all fairness, though, it is not a black box that those on the outside seem anxious to peer into. It doesnt have to be like this. Revenue management is not just Excel spreadsheets and data analysis. Nor is it a magic discipline that only special people should have access to. When we make the concepts accessible to everyone whose job it is to make the hotel successful, we increase the chances of that happening. What do I wish I had understood back when I was a sales manager? I could write a hundred articles and not begin to fully answer that question, but I will address a few here. If I had understood the impact of pattern on the groups value, I would have asked groups about the possibility of shifting their arrival date much earlier in the conversation. I wasted a lot of time pursuing groups that never had any chance of passing business review. If I had understood how critical the availability of function space was to maximizing the sale of our guestrooms, I would have invested less energy in those space-heavy groups I tried so hard to close. And if I had understood where the rates I was told to quote were coming from how they resulted from analysis of the hotels history, the market, the budget, and predictions about consumer behavior I would have sold them with more confidence and dropped them less often, even when I was told that I could. Thats not all. If I had been taught to understand a STR report (not just read off the numbers), I would have felt more ownership of the hotels success, and not focused solely on my sales goal. If anyone had walked me through a budget or a forecast, I would have better understood how the business I booked impacted the rest of the sales team and the other hotel departments. And all of that would have helped me to pursue, and book, more valuable business. I also would have had a much better relationship with the revenue managers I worked with, and been able to collaborate more to increase the value of the business I brought in. When it comes down to it, every hotel team member is trying to achieve the same thing: make as much money as possible for the hotel while making the guests happy. How much more could I have achieved against that goal if someone had explained some of those concepts to me? We will never know. But why waste the opportunity to give our current teams that level of knowledge, helping them to contribute even more to the value of the hotel? We are all working towards the same goal. Why not give everyone the same tools to achieve it? Lynn Zwibak is the Founder and President of Zwibak Revenue Management, which provides revenue management training to non-revenue managers. Her mission is to educate the hotel industry on revenue management principles so that hotels can be more profitable. She is the author of the Study Guide and Exam for HSMAIs Certified Revenue Management Analysist designation, a professor of Revenue Management at Virginia Tech University, and a member of the Kennedy Training Network. Email her at: lynn@zwibak.com or visit www.zwibak.com Grand Mercure Okinawa Cape Zanpa Swimming Pool Accor is expanding its presence in Japan with the addition of the Daiwa Resorts portfolio, adding 23 properties and over 6,000 rooms to its nationwide network. All hotels are set to open simultaneously in Q2 of 2024, and reservations will begin from 6 November, 2023. Grand Mercure will make its debut in Japan, offering "Proudly Local" premium hotels, inspiring guests to experience their destination through local celebrations and multi-sensory experiences crafted by local hosts. Additionally, Mercure offers locally inspired, high-quality midscale hotels that awaken people's appetite for discovery. Two key properties scheduled to open are Grand Mercure Yatsugatake Resort & Spa, located in the beautiful mountainous landscape of Yatsugatake and Grand Mercure Okinawa Cape Zanpa Resort, surrounded by the blue sea and white sand of the popular Zanpa Beach. Both properties will undergo extensive renovations, including common spaces such as the lobby, restaurants and onsen (hot springs.) Additionally, Grand Mercure Okinawa Cape Zanpa is set to open one of the largest swimming pools in Okinawa prefecture. "We are very pleased to be able to share a first glance at what some of these incredible properties will look like once they are ready to open. Stemming from Mercure's brand beliefs and considering the popularity of Japan as a tourism destination, we are convinced that these 23 properties give us an opportunity to offer our guests truly authentic local experiences that can only be offered in these unique destinations," said Garth Simmons, Chief Executive Officer, Premium, Midscale and Economy Division for Accor in Asia. "We appreciate the immense trust that Japan Hotel Reit Advisors, Daiwa Resort's asset manager, has placed in Accor to lead this transformative project to success, alongside the opportunity to introduce the Grand Mercure brand into Japan." "In April 2024, Daiwa Resort Co., Ltd. will take on the major challenge of rebranding and opening 23 hotels simultaneously nationwide under two new brands, Mercure and Grand Mercure. This rebranding of our properties will undoubtedly promote undiscovered rural areas across the country as well as tackle the current overtourism challenge of Japan. This incredible undertaking will also give us an opportunity to respond to diversifying travel needs by creating a new story with Accor to enhance the value of the undiscovered gems all over the country and deliver them to customers in Japan and overseas. We will contribute not only to the hotel but also to the entire destination and help to revitalize the communities," commented Koji Mayanagi, Daiwa Resort Co., Ltd. President & CEO. Grand Mercure and Mercure Hotels joining the network in Q2 2024 Grand Mercure Okinawa Cape Zanpa Resort Grand Mercure Lake Hamana Resort & Spa Grand Mercure Nasu Highlands Resort & Spa Grand Mercure Beppu Bay Resort & Spa Grand Mercure Yatsugatake Resort & Spa Grand Mercure Awaji Island Resort & Spa Grand Mercure Nara Kashihara Grand Mercure Ise-shima Resort & Spa Grand Mercure Lake Biwa Resort & Spa Grand Mercure Minamiboso Resort & Spa Grand Mercure Wakayama Minabe Resort &Spa Grand Mercure Sapporo Odori Park Mercure Kyoto Miyazu Resort & Spa Mercure Nagano Matsushiro Resort & Spa Mercure Saga Karatsu Resort Mercure Wakayama Kushimoto Resort & Spa Mercure Toyama Tonami Resort & Spa Mercure Kochi Tosa Resort & Spa Mercure Miyagi Zao Resort & Spa Mercure Tottori Daisen Resort & Spa Mercure Urabandai Resort & Spa Mercure Noto Resort & Spa Mercure Fukuoka Munakata Resort & Spa Renovations of the properties will begin in Q4 2023 and are expected to be completed by Q2 2024, after which the properties will operate under the Grand Mercure and Mercure brands. Accor currently operates 21 properties (5,085 keys) in Japan under several brands, including Pullman, Swissotel, Mercure, Novotel, ibis, ibis Styles and ibis Budget. In addition to the hotels signed within this agreement, there are five more properties (1,147 keys) currently in Accor's pipeline. Wait! Before you go Please sign up for our Evening Digest and Breaking Newsletters Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Hudson, NY (12534) Today Overcast with rain showers at times. High 46F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.. Tonight Clear skies. Low 28F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced "an anti-subsidy probe" into Chinese electric vehicles (EV) on Wednesday. "Global markets are now flooded with cheaper electric cars. And their price is kept artificially low by huge state subsidies," Von der Leyen said in her annual address to the EU parliament. The probe will seriously disrupt global supply chains and will jeopardize the long-term growth of the European automotive industry. To begin with, it is technological innovation not so-called "excessive state subsidies" that has built China's EVs into the leading force in the global market. Take China's battery technology as an example. As a result of technological innovation, the Power Swap Station of Chinese EV brand NIO allows vehicles to switch to a fully-charged battery pack in just three minutes. One station can complete 312 swaps per day, according to Xinhua reports. In August, China's EV battery maker Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Ltd. launched a new lithium iron phosphate battery capable of powering automobiles for 400 kilometers in only 10 minutes. Chinese carmakers, in recent years, have also accelerated the pace of automotive software research. China's BYD submitted 171 patent applications to Europe, 139 to the U.S., and 49 to Japan, according to Nikkei reports. Apart from its technology advantage, competitive prices have made Chinese EVs popular in the European market. However, this cost advantage has nothing to do with so-called "state subsidies." Unlike European counterparts, most auto parts of Chinese EV brands are domestically made and assembled. After a detailed assessment of all parts pulled from BYD's Seal model, UBS found that 75 percent of components ranging from batteries to power semiconductors were made in-house. This, without doubt, has tremendously saved costs, giving China advantages in manufacturing, industrial clusters, also convenient and efficient infrastructure, etc. In addition, labor costs in China are still much cheaper than that in the EU. As a result of their competitive prices and cutting-edge technology, the popularity of Chinese EVs is an undeniable fact. Statistics from auto consultancy Inovev show that 8 percent of new EVs sold in Europe this year were Chinese, up from 6 percent last year. The European market accounted for nearly half of China's total new-energy vehicle exports in 2022, according to the China Passenger Car Association. Europe should view China's EV development in an objective way. However, by launching an "anti-subsidy" probe, the EU is arbitrarily using unilateral economic and trade tools to seize unfair advantages over Chinese rivals. The probe is, in essence, a practice of protectionism. The punitive tariffs, if imposed, would increase the operating costs of China-made EVs in the European market, putting the legitimate rights of Chinese firms in jeopardy. Such a protectionist move, by creating hurdles for Chinese rivals, could gain European automakers some unfair advantages in the short run. But it will do no good to enhance Europe's auto competitiveness in the long term. To begin with, it will exert negative impacts on the economic ties between China and the EU. While European automakers have benefited a lot from the Chinese market and cooperation from their Chinese counterparts in the past years, crippled China-EU ties mean squeezed room for future collaboration and cooperation. In addition, the stability of the global supply chain has repeatedly turned out to be vital for sound economic growth. Protectionist moves on Chinese EVs violate WTO rules, disrupt free trade, and create hurdles for the supply of certain parts to automakers. No European carmakers can benefit from the disrupted industrial chains in the long run. Besides, protectionism dampens European firms' will to improve. Worse still, it is European customers who will pay for Von der Leyen's protectionist act. The EU should have learned a lesson from the trade war former U.S. President Donald Trump launched against China. According to a 2021 report by Moody's Investors Service, American importers absorbed over 90 percent of the additional costs caused by increased U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods. If the EU insists on its protectionist attempt on China, European customers will be the biggest victim. Would Europeans prefer EVs more expensive but with less-advanced technologies? "Competition should spur us on, but not scare us," German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said earlier. In the face of competition, the EU can resort to innovation and cooperation for advantages over rivals. But protectionism is never the right way forward. China has always maintained an open attitude and welcomes European firms to expand their footprint in the Chinese market. But by introducing restrictive measures, is the EU scared by competitive foreign rivals? Source: CGTN) College and University TikTok bans are not stopping students Universities around the country have placed bans on TikTok, but college kids are easily able to bypass them. In fact, some are even popular creators. So, whats the point? by Karl Bode from Tech Dirt Weve noted a few times how the political push to ban TikTok is a dumb performance largely designed to distract people from our failure to pass even a basic internet privacy law or regulate data brokers. Weve also noted how college bans of TikTok are a dumb extension of that dumb performance, and dont accomplish anything of meaningful significance. When the college bans first emerged, we noted theyd be trivial to bypass, given the bans only apply to the actual college network. They obviously dont apply to personal student use over cellular networks. And, not surprisingly, students are finding it extremely easy to bypass the bans, either by simply turning off Wi-Fi when they want to access the social network, or using a VPN: The student body, quietly, in unison, added Wi-Fi toggling to their daily routine. Everyone was so nonchalant about it, Pablo says. They really just did not care. There wasnt a whole lot of pushback, aside from a lot of grumbling and groans, says Ana Renfroe, a sophomore at Texas A&M. Some of her professors are still showing TikToks in class. Theyll just ask students to download the videos at home she explains, or will upload them to another platform like Instagram Reels. The folks who spent several years hyperventilating about how TikTok was some unique threat to the public (on an internet where countless international companies, ISPs, app makers, and data brokers over-collect and fail to secure consumer data) are, of course, nowhere to be found. Their superficial solution for a problem they overstated (often for xenophobic or anticompetitivereasons) didnt actually do anything useful, but it provided the superficial illusion of solution-oriented thinking, which is good enough for the kind of facts-optional partisan media echo chambers the most vocal TikTok critics often inhabit. Here in reality, folks like The Knight First Amendment Institute have continued to challenge the college bans, noting they imperil research into an important modern information-exchange platform. But we still havent passed a privacy law or regulated data brokers as part of any sort of coherent plan to rein in allbad actors on privacy, not just the Chinese-owned ones Mark Zuckerberg doesnt want eating his lunch. Share on: Williamstown Planners Review 'Cottage Court' Bylaw WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. The Planning Board last week took its first look at some proposed zoning bylaw amendments the panel could bring to town meeting as early as May. Two of the drafts considered are echoes of a spring 2023 proposal to allow manufactured homes on residential lots. A third is a new proposal to make possible increased housing density in the town's General Residence district. Kenneth Kuttner and Roger Lawrence have formed a working group to develop the latter proposal, which would allow a development known as "cottage courts" small single-family homes grouped together on a parcel around a common area and, often, a common building with amenities, like a laundry room. The pair have been talking about the concept in Planning Board meetings for months . On Tuesday, they took the next step. "I think it really is a two-year process," Lawrence told his colleagues. "We do have some meat to present to you tonight. This is the first time we have a bylaw 16 or 17 months later that we have something with some real meat to bring to you." Generally, the other three board members reacted favorably to the bylaw language as presented, though each of the other planners had suggestions about places where the document could be tweaked. Ben Greenfield, for example, questioned the draft that would have limited the number of homes in a cottage court to 12. Kuttner said the intent of the cottage courts is to create discrete "pocket neighborhoods." "It's a question of scale," Lawrence said in a meeting telecast on the town's community access television station, Willinet. "Williamstown is a beautiful town. Ken and I are interpreting our task as creating opportunities for greater density without turning Williamstown into a different place. "We like it the way it is, but we need more dwelling units. We think this is the way to do it." The bylaw as drafted would allow the creation of a cottage court on as little as one third of an acre and would require 3,630 square feet of lot area per home, creating the potential for up to 12 units per acre. It also would permit a limited number of duplexes in a cottage court, provided those two-unit structures are built with one-bedroom units. The homes themselves would be restricted to a footprint of 800 square feet and a maximum floor space (including a second floor) of 1,200 square feet. Cory Campbell asked about existing buildings on a parcel and how they might interact with the draft bylaw's proposed limit on the size of the court's "shared use building." Campbell brought to mind a not dissimilar proposal to build duplexes on a Water Street lot. At one time, the developer was proposing to renovate and create apartments in the existing Grange Hall building at the site, a structure that exceeds the floor space of 800 square feet for a common building in the draft bylaw. Peter Beck agreed that pre-existing structures should be treated differently and noted that the common building an option, not a requirement in the bylaw as described in the draft in the context of the development's overall common area, including open space. "I would make the built common area a separate section from the open space," Beck said. "I'd say the open space requirement is an open space requirement separate from that, you can build a common building or have adaptive reuse of an existing structure." Kuttner and Lawrence agreed to look at reworking that section of the bylaw. Since cottage courts are predicated on common space (and, perhaps, a common building), they generally have some form of joint ownership, although the homes themselves can be owner occupied. The draft bylaw included a suggestion that the finished product include a requirement for a "condominium association or homeowners association." Town Planner Andrew Groff noted that the town cannot regulate the mode of ownership for residences, but he did point Kuttner and Lawrence to an existing section of the zoning bylaw on subdivisions, which requires management of common space, like roads. "What we can't do is say it has to be all rental or it has to be all ownership," Groff said. Tuesday's discussion of bylaw proposals began with yet another presentation from Paul Harsch explaining why he believes the town should not permit manufactured homes. Later in the meeting, Beck showed his colleagues two possible bylaws they could bring to the next town meeting that would advance the manufactured housing concept favored by a majority but not the needed super majority of attendees at the last annual town meeting. Beck's first suggestion would allow the manufactured homes in the General Residence, Southern Gateway and Rural Residence districts provided those homes are built "since 2023," up to the latest federal standards. Beck's second proposed bylaw would allow manufactured homes by right as accessory dwelling units only in GR, Southern Gateway, RR2 and RR3. "The modern [2023 or later] one addresses some of the concerns that were raised," Beck said. "[The ADU proposal] addresses the home equity concern, if that's a concern for folks. Because your primary home is still the primary driver of your home equity. This is your ADU, just like your converted shed or your garage. Beck also offered a third proposed bylaw draft that would combine the two concepts, permitting manufactured homes only as ADUs and only if built in 2023 or later. "I'm just trying to put in words some of the different things we've bounced around," Beck said. "I framed it. You can go check it out. Reference it to the other parts of the code. See if any of it is attractive to you if all of them are attractive to you, if none of them are attractive to you. Now, it's in bylaw language that you can get a firmer grip on." In other business, the Planning Board learned that the owner of the Sweetwood Independent Living Community again asked to postpone a discussion about a proposed zoning bylaw amendment to cover its property. Through its attorney, CareOne had been suggesting the town could hold a special town meeting to address its proposal rather than waiting until the May 2024 gathering. Lawrence pointed out that with each passing month, the likelihood of a special meeting diminishes and it becomes more likely any bylaw amendment will be dealt with as part of the town's regular calendar. "Either a rather large number of citizens petitioning the town or the Select Board can call [a special town meeting]," Groff said. "I've explained to them that a special meeting, at least in Williamstown, is not the preferred way of going about this. In other towns, they're more common. We do them exceedingly rarely." Alex Kostopoulos, left, Wendy Penner and Richard Alcombright stand with Mayor Jennifer Macksey as she reads a proclamation declaring September National Recovery Month. North Adams Recognizes Recovery, Child Cancer and Hello Week Joe and Kathy Arabia with the mayor for the reading of the Childhood Cancer Awareness Month proclamation last week. NORTH ADAMS, Mass. The city recognized September as National Recovery and Childhood Cancer Awareness months and this week as "Hello Week." Mayor Jennifer Macksey read the proclamations at last week's lengthy City Council meeting. All three awareness initiatives have been recognized by past administrations as well. The proclamation on National Recovery pointed to the epidemic of drug and substance abuse nationwide and in the North Berkshires. "Men and women in recovery showcase the power each of us holds to transform ourselves, our families and our community," ready Macksey. "We must encourage relatives and friends of people with mental illness and or other substance-use disorders to implement preventative measures, recognize the signs of a problem and guide those who need appropriate treatment and recovery support systems. ... "It is critical for all the residents of the city of North Adams to move toward a area where addiction is treated as a significant public health issue." The reading was applauded by a number of community members who attended the council meeting. Richard Alcombright, the city's former mayor and and longtime advocate for substance abuse recovery and prevention, thanked the mayor and the council for its continued support. "It is critical that we have the support of our local leaders," he said. "And I just want, on behalf of all of us here and all of us that work this all the time, thank you." Voices for Recovery will again host its annual community event on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Colegrove Park with information booths on mental wellness and substance recovery and guest speakers. Kathy and Joseph Arabia joined Macksey at the podium for the reading of the Childhood Cancer Awareness proclamation. The Arabias are the founders and directors of the AYJ Fund, named for their daughter, Anna Yan Ji Arabia, who died from a rare brain cancer called gliomatosis cerebri in 2013. Childhood cancer is the leading cause of disease-related death in children, said Macksey, and a child is diagnosed with cancer every 80 seconds. One in 285 children in the United States have been diagnosed by their 20th birthday and many survivors of the disease face chronic conditions later in life. The AYJ Fund provides support to local families with children facing cancer and to cancer research, especially gliomatosis cerebri. Kathy Arabia thanked the council and mayor for their support but noted that the number of children with cancer has not decreased. "There are a number of new names of children that we're helping in our own community," she said. "A child of 18 months old was recently diagnosed and now has relapsed. We are working with a number of families who've reached out, and increased number of families that are reaching out from outside the area also that we're trying to help." On the brighter side, two children that they have worked with are now in college, Arabia said. "Until all of these kids are able to achieve their dreams, whatever they are, will continue to fight for them." Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art is again lighting up "Tree Logic" with golden lights to recognize the month. This week, Sept. 18 through 22, is "Start with Hello" week, an initiative of the Sandy Hook Promise. The North Adams Public Schools have been participated in this program for some years. "Sandy Hook practices focus on preventing gun violence and other forms of violence victimization before it happens by promoting educational programs for youth and adults and mental health and wellness programs that identify intervene and help at risk individuals," read Macksey in her proclamation. The promise is nationwide initiative to build empathy and inclusivity in prekindergarten through Grade 12 schools. Start with Hello is designed to prevent social isolation and create communities of inclusion and connectedness. North Adams' weeklong awareness campaign will include Wear Green Day (the Sandy Hook Promise color), Walk to School Day, Compliment Day, the Nobody Eats Alone Day/Mix Your Clique, and a Community Welcome Day. Additionally, Drury High School will be hosting its third annual Day of Service to promote acts of kindness to culminate the week. They will be welcomed by community leaders; hear from Dennis Rebelo, author of "Story Like You Mean It"; participate in blocks of service in North Adams or on the campus. Creating connections has been an underlying theme at Drury with the redesign of the school day to include intentional team building between faculty/staff and students. The Web site where I found this expression said that it dated back to President Theodore Roosevelt's Third Annual Message to Congress on Dec 7, 1903. If so, it is young and maybe not time-tested enough to qualify for a proverb. Its sentiment, however, must have endured eons. For the Chinese, its execution depends less on people's faith in impersonal systems, but incarnates in rare individuals, e.g., Mr. Bao, a bureaucrat in the Song Dynasty. As restrictions on gender-affirming care options for Nebraskans under 19 officially take effect, transgender rights advocates are planning to protest the changes at the Capitol. ACLU of Nebraska, Nebraska Appleseed and OutNebraska are planning a joint rally in Lincoln on Oct. 1, the same day a ban on puberty blockers, hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgeries are set to take effect under LB574. All three organizations advocated against the bill while it was debated in the Legislature. "We have not forgotten how (lawmakers) voted against the rights of trans Nebraskans," a description of the event reads. The rally will begin at 1 p.m. on the Capitol's front steps. It will feature remarks from trans youths, parents of trans people and medical professionals. Along with its gender-affirming care restrictions, LB574 increased Nebraska's abortion ban to 12 weeks based on gestational age. The bill was among the most controversial measures debated in the Legislature this year, and is currently being challenged in court by ACLU lawyers who claim the law violates the Nebraska Constitution's single-subject rule. That lawsuit held the chance to block the law's gender-affirming care restrictions from taking effect through a temporary injunction ACLU requested on behalf of Planned Parenthood of the Heartland. However, the Nebraska Supreme Court denied that request earlier this week, so the regulations of LB574 will remain in place while the case is considered. LB574 calls for a full ban on gender-affirming surgeries for people under 19, but directed the chief medical officer with the state health department to develop regulations for puberty blockers and hormone therapy. Until those regulations are approved, however, those medications will be fully banned for that age group unless an individual was already receiving treatment before Oct. 1. According to department officials, Chief Medical Officer Timothy Tesmer is working with a group of experts on drafting the regulations, all of whom will remain anonymous until the drafting is complete. Among the criteria for the regulations is setting a minimum number of gender-identity-focused therapeutic hours a patient must undergo to receive it, and a minimum waiting period between a medical practitioner receiving the patients consent and prescribing the treatment. Several Nebraska physicians said in interviews with The Omaha World-Herald that these criteria are already part of the standard practice doctors follow when prescribing such care. It is unclear how long the ban on the medications will last before the regulations are implemented. The department expects to hold a hearing on the proposed regulations before the end of the year, but Tesmer previously said a second hearing may be necessary depending on how the first goes. After the hearing, the regulations will go through several groups for review, including the Board of Health and the Attorney Generals Office, before finally going to Gov. Jim Pillens desk for approval. Close Hurricane Nigel to rapidly intensify Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Independent Climate email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Hurricane Nigel has strengthened slightly overnight and is set to intensify further, according to the latest advisory from the National Hurricane Center. Nigel, the sixth hurricane to form in the Atlantic Ocean this season, developed into a Category 1 storm yesterday and was forecast to rapidly intensify to become a Category 3 hurricane. At the moment, Nigel has sustained winds of 80mph (130kph) but forecasters in the National Weather Service (NWS) and National Hurricane Center expect the storm to have sustained winds of at least 111mph as it grows. Nigel was located approximately about 875miles (1,410km) east-southeast of Bermuda and was moving northwest at a speed of 12mph (19kph). The hurricane is not expected to make landfall and no warnings or watches have been issued. As of now, the National Hurricane Center predicts Nigel will veer off right into the open Atlantic Ocean by Wednesday morning. Nigel developed shortly after Hurricane Lee landed in Nova Scotia as a post-tropical storm. Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Lifestyle Edit email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The Prince of Wales will hold talks with UN secretary general Antonio Guterres during his whistle-stop visit to the United States to celebrate the 2023 Earthshot Prize finalists. William will meet Mr Guterres during the UN General Assembly in New York on Monday, as the city holds its annual climate week event a gathering of business leaders, politicians and civil society aimed at driving the transition to a sustainable future. The future king is making a two-day visit to the Big Apple to promote his Earthshot Prize, an ambitious environmental award, now in its third year. Before meeting the global statesman, the prince will visit the Billion Oyster Project to learn more about the initiative which aims to restore oyster reefs to New York Harbour with the help of school children and volunteers. On Tuesday, he will attend the Earthshot Prize Innovation Summit where the 2023 finalists will be named and their projects showcased. He will address delegates alongside other speakers including former New York mayor and business news mogul Mike Bloomberg, a global adviser to Earthshot Prize winners, Dame Jacinda Ardern, Earthshot trustee former New Zealand prime minister, and Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft. The heir to the throne was due to attend the inaugural summit, held last year in New York, but was unable to travel as the royal family were mourning following the death of Queen Elizabeth. His prize aims to discover and scale-up ground-breaking solutions to repair the planet and 1m in prize money will be presented to the winners in five categories, or Earthshots Protect and restore nature; Clean our air, Revive our oceans; Build a waste-free world; and Fix our climate. Singapore will host the third awards ceremony in November, after prize-giving events were staged in Boston last year and Londons Alexandra Palace in 2021. Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Lifestyle Edit email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Sydney Sweeney has celebrated her 26th birthday with an 80s prom-themed party. The Euphoria star threw the fun, retro bash over the weekend after her birthday on 12 September. She showed fans glimpses of the party on her Instagram Story, decorated with filtered photos of disco balls and pink curtains draped across the ceiling. Sweeney also reposted many of her famous friends Instagram Stories from the night. She included snapshots of the decorations, which included a lit-up dance floor, balloon displays, and a white banner with pink text that read Syds Prom surrounded by sparkly metallic fringe. There were also two pink-and-blue balloon arches set against a matching streamer backdrop evoking the kind of backgrounds that would be set up for pictures at a real 80s prom. As seen in photos she took with her guests, Sweeney was true to the theme. The Emmy nominee donned a metallic, hot pink minidress with rosette-shaped puffy sleeves that looked like it came straight out of the 80s. She accessorised the look with a sparkly little bag from Self-Portrait and platform pumps, both adorned with bows. Sweeney also wore her hair in big, voluminous blonde curls styled in a deep side part with sparkly eyeshadow, thick black liner, and pink lips. Riverdales Camila Mendes and Barbies Ariana Greenblatt posted videos to their Instagram Stories of Sweeney being serenaded by partygoers with a silly, operatic rendition of Happy Birthday before blowing out the candles from a multicoloured three-layer cake. Mendes wrote on her Instagram Story that 80s prom night was rad along with two pink hearts, to which Sweeney replied with, Love youuuuu :). Happy birthday beauty! I love you so much!! wrote Nicola Peltz Beckham, 28, alongside a video shared to her story of the crowd clapping for Sweeney. Meanwhile, Sweeneys Anyone But You costar Alexandra Shipp posted a pic with the actor, calling her the birthday bae on her Instagram Story. Brazilian pop star Anitta posted a few pictures from the partys photobooth to her story wishing Sweeney a Happy Birthday. My first prom thanks to the bday girl @sydney_sweeney U deserve the best!!! the pop star wrote on her Instagram Story. Sweeney has been making waves recently after being given the honour of starring in the music video for Angry, the first single The Rolling Stones have released in decades. In the music video, a leather-clad Sweeney can be seen enjoying a joy ride down Los Angeles iconic Sunset Boulevard in the backseat of a red convertible as Mick Jagger sings from various billboards passing by. The White Lotus actor admitted in a press conference that she freaked out when the legendary band asked her to be in the music video. Several upcoming projects are on the way for the actor, including the highly-anticipated Marvel and Sony collaboration Madame Web, in which she will star as Julia Carpenter opposite Dakota Johnson in the titular role. Sweeney will also be seen alongside Academy Award winner Julianne Moore in Apple TV+s upcoming thriller film Echo Valley. She will also be starring in the R-rated rom-com Anyone But You together with Top Gun: Mavericks Glen Powell. Sweeney served as an executive producer for the upcoming film directed by Easy As Will Gluck. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Russell Brand offered to take his personal assistant to meet Jimmy Savile naked in an apparent joke during an interview that has resurfaced following allegations against the actor. Brand has been accused of rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse over a seven-year period at the height of his fame presenting on our screens and airwaves. On his flagship Radio 2 show in 2007, Brand called Savile and told him it would be very nice one day to meet the Jimll Fix It presenter. Russell Brand absolutely denies unspecified criminal allegations about his personal life on his YouTube channel (PA Wire) Five years before the allegations against Savile emerged, the older star told Brand he doesnt usually meet fellas but if youve got a sister then thats ok. Have you been affected by this story? If so email barney.davis.ind@independent.co.uk Brand explained he didnt have a sister but instead named a personal assistant he could meet. Ive got a personal assistant, Brand told Savile. And part of her job description is that anyone I demand she greet, meet, massages, she has to do it. Shes very attractive, Jimmy. Savile answered: Well, well thats a good start. You could send her along to do some research. Asked by Brand what she should wear to meet Jimmy, the paedophile presenter replied: Id actually prefer her to wear nothing. Brand burst into laughter as Savile insisted: Theres nothing wrong with that. There is no suggestion that Brand, Savile or Brands personal assistant ever met up following the interview. Jimmy Savile got away with his crimes as a prolific sex offender (PA Archive) During the same broadcast, Brand called Savile the defining voice of the BBC and spoke of wanting to meet a beautiful dinner companion of the notorious presenter. The call was aired in May 2007, four years before Saviles death aged 84 and five years before his horrific history of sexual abuse came to light. Sex offender Savile is thought to have abused at least 500 victims, a study by the NSPCC said in 2014. A year after the Savile allegations broke in 2012, The Daily Star reported Brand told a stand up audience: It puts the whole Sachsgate thing into perspective, doesnt it? I f***ed your adult granddaughter! Not quite the same, is it? Brand, 48, vehemently denies the allegations and said all of his relationships have been consensual, in a video posted online on Friday night. Brands representatives have been approached for further comment. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Extinction Rebellion have poured a pool of fake oil over the steps of the Labour Partys London headquarters and let off smoke grenades. Two activists climbed on to the portico and set off the canisters, while another chained himself to a handrail, calling on Labour to cancel any oil licences granted by the Conservatives before the next election if the party comes to power. Other supporters held up banners saying Cut the ties to fossil fuels. The action at the building in Blackfriars Road, Southwark, south-east London, on Monday followed an XR protest in Parliament Square on Saturday involving an effigy of Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer dressed as Margaret Thatcher. A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: At around 9am on Monday, September 18, police were called to reports of a small group of people reported to be spraying paint on a building in Blackfriars Road, Westminster. Local officers arrived on scene while the demonstration was in progress. One person had locked themselves onto a pillar on the building and two people had scaled the canopy outside. Specially-trained protest removal teams made sure protesters were removed from the building quickly and safely. Two men have been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and remain in police custody at this time. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Senior government officials expressed concern about Boris Johnsons behaviour during the pandemic with Buckingham Palace, it has been claimed. Staff apparently discussed asking the late Queen to raise these concerns with Mr Johnson during their private audiences. A new documentary, Laura Kuenssberg: State of Chaos, details significant tension between Mr Johnsons political team and the Civil Service. They included a series of clashes between Mr Johnsons former chief of staff Dominic Cummings and Sir Mark Sedwill, the former head of the Civil Service. Sources told the documentary that senior officials even discussed fears with Buckingham Palace about the former prime ministers conduct in government. One said the then-prime minister had to be reminded of the constitution, the BBC reported. Others confirmed there were a series of phone calls and communications between Downing Street and Buckingham Palace which went beyond what was normal. And one described the atmosphere in No10 during that period as "utterly grim, and totally crazy", saying relationships had been "just toxic" and the links between Mr Johnsons team and the Civil Service "broke down". There were already concerns in the Palace about Mr Johnsons decision in 2019 to prorogue parliament, ruled illegal by the Supreme Court. Former deputy cabinet secretary Helen MacNamara told the documentary: There were definitely times after the prime minister came back from his illness [he contracted Covid and required hospital treatment] when the kind of the perception amongst the political team at Number 10 about the failings of the system and the failings of the Civil Service and the failings of different institutions, it was just so extreme the way that they were articulating that, they were smash everything up, shut it all down, start again... we were systematically in real trouble. Mr Johnson was forced out of Downing Street in part because of his response to the pandemic, during which he was fined for breaking his own lockdown rules. As well as being fined for attending his own birthday party in Downing Streets Cabinet room, staff had regular wine time Friday gatherings while Covid restrictions were in place. An inquiry by former senior civil servant Sue Gray, now chief of staff to Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, detailed a serious failure to abide by the standards expected of the entire British population during the Covid pandemic. Staff described feeling as though they were permitted to attend lockdown busting events because of the attendance of senior figures in government, with Mr Johnson pictured multiple times in Ms Grays report. Wine was mentioned 20 times in the report into lockdown events that Johnson said were work meetings The revelation comes a week after former Tory health minister Lord Bethell said Mr Johnsons government adopted an ostrich, head-in-the-sand mentality at the start of the Covid pandemic and was instead fixated on Brexit. Lord Bethell, a junior health minister from March 2020 to September 2021, said Downing Street did not want to prioritise the pandemic when it first emerged, even though the evidence was mounting of the threat. CCTV: Can you share more about the 18th round of China-Russia strategic security consultation? What is Chinas expectation for the consultation? Mao Ning: China and Russia are each others biggest neighbors and comprehensive strategic partners of coordination for a new era. Both countries are permanent members of the UN Security Council and major emerging economies. The two countries have maintained close communication on major issues of mutual interest that have strategic and overarching significance. Director Wang Yis trip to Russia is a regular activity within the framework of the strategic security consultation mechanism and aimed at delivering on the important common understandings between our two countries heads of state, advancing bilateral ties, and having in-depth communication on major issues that bear on the strategic security interests of the two countries. CCTV: In a designation submitted to the US Congress on September 15, President Biden identified China as a major drug source country. Whats Chinas comment? Mao Ning: The USs identification has no basis in facts. This is a malicious smear against China. We firmly oppose it and have made serious demarches to the US. The Chinese government has always been serious about fighting drugs. To date, China has scheduled 456 anesthetic and psychotropic drugs and two entire classes of substances. We are one of the countries that have scheduled the biggest number of substances and exercise the strictest control on drugs. China has listed 38 types of controlled precursor chemicals14 more than those regulated by the United Nations. The narcotics control authorities have put in place a comprehensive and dynamic supervision mechanism for all stages of precursor chemical management. Those are exemplary efforts on global drug governance. China has the strictest drug control policy in the world and enforces it in the fullest way. Our efforts are widely recognized by the international community. In contrast, the US, with 5 percent of the worlds population, consumes 80 percent of the opioid produced in the worldwhich makes the US a black hole and source of problem for global drug control. The US is the single largest major drug demand country and is in no position to wag its finger at Chinas counter-narcotics efforts. The incompetence and ineffective control is the true cause of the pervasive drug problem in the US, and the fundamental solution is to reduce domestic demand. We urge the US to stop blaming and smearing China and do things in ways that are conducive to cooperation with China, not otherwise. Shenzhen TV: A recent New York Times article claimed that China used artificial intelligence technology to generate disinformation about the wildfires in Hawaii, saying the disaster was a result of a secrete weather weapon tested by the US, and spread the false posts across the internet, so as to sow discord in the US. Can you confirm this? Mao Ning: This report is not factual at all. The theory about weather weapon came from US media first. Some Chinese media outlets and we-media accounts did nothing more than citing or re-posting those reports. To say they made up or spread disinformation is completely unfounded. If anyone was making up or spreading disinformation, it would be The New York Times, not them. As a matter of fact, the people in China and in the US never sat idly by and watched when either side was hit by disasters. During the early days of the outbreak of COVID-19, US businesses and people actively donated money and materials to help the Chinese people. Later on, as the pandemic spread in the US, Chinese local groups and the public immediately raised materials and sent them all the way across the ocean to over 20 US states and cities, which was highly appreciated by people in the US. In August last year, an American teacher working in Chinas Southwest University carried chain saws to help fight wildfires in Chongqing. His brave deed was widely acclaimed by Chinese people online. After the devastating wildfires broke out in Hawaii, China immediately extended sympathies and expressed readiness to provide help as needed. Those are the true stories about sub-national and people-to-people exchanges between China and the US. We urge relevant US media outlet to be truthful, objective and neutral in its reporting, and stop spreading disinformation against China. China News Service: In an address to the Summit of the Group of 77 and China that just concluded, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that he counts on the Group and China, who have long been champions of multilateralism, to fight to champion a system that is rooted in equality and delivers for all humanity. How does China view the outcomes of this summit? Mao Ning: First I would like to offer my congratulations on the full success of this summit, which contributes significantly to enhancing solidarity and cooperation among developing countries to jointly address challenges. Li Xi, President Xi Jinpings special representative, Member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Secretary of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, attended the summit and put forward a three-point proposal on cooperation between the G77 and China: first, we must stay true to the original aspiration of the G77 for independence and greater collective strength through unity, reject bloc confrontation and the Cold War mentality and join hands to maintain world peace and tranquility; second, we must advocate equity, justice and inclusiveness and strengthen the voice and representation of developing countries; third, we must pursue development, revitalization and win-win cooperation and work to ensure that no developing country will be left behind or left out in the development of new technologies and industries. The summit adopted the Havana Declaration. It stresses the importance of solidarity and cooperation on the basis of extensive consultations, joint contributions and shared benefits, which can bring huge gains to all countries and all parts of the world in building a community of shared future for humankind. It emphasizes equality, justice and the need for a more inclusive and coordinated approach to global financial governance, rejects technological monopolies and other unfair practices that hinder the technological development of developing countries, and calls upon the international community to foster an open, fair, inclusive and non-discriminatory environment for scientific and technological development. China is the largest developing country in the world and a member of the Global South. We stand ready to work together with G77 members to build a Global South community with a shared future, and usher in a new era of common development. China Daily: It was reported that President of the Central American Parliament Amado Cerrud will lead a delegation to China in the coming days. Can you confirm this? Mao Ning: At the invitation of Chairman of the National Peoples Congress Standing Committee Zhao Leji, President of the Central American Parliament Amado Cerrud will lead a delegation to China from September 19 to 23. On August 22 this year, the Central American Parliament adopted the resolution to revoke the permanent observer status of the so-called Legislative Yuan of the Taiwan region and accept the National Peoples Congress of China as a permanent observer. China welcomes and commends the resolution. This again shows that the one-China principle represents the unstoppable trend of the times and has the overwhelming support of the people. China stands ready to develop friendly cooperation with the Central American Parliament on the basis of the one-China principle. Reuters: Huawei has met with Taliban interior ministry officials. Is China hoping to encourage cooperation between Chinese companies with Afghanistan on security matters? And is the Chinese government willing to cooperate with Taliban authorities on counter-terrorism plans, including surveillance? Mao Ning: I have no information on what you mentioned. AFP: The Taiwan authorities claimed that they had detected the continued activity of 103 Peoples Liberation Army warplanes near the island by 6 oclock this morning, of which dozens crossed the median line in the Taiwan Strait. Can you further explain these military activities? Mao Ning: First of all, this is not a question about foreign affairs. I suggest you ask competent Chinese authorities for specifics. Let me say that Taiwan is part of Chinas territory. There is no so-called median line in the Taiwan Strait. Bloomberg: Can you tell us if President Xi Jinping is planning to attend the APEC summit in the US in November? Mao Ning: We value APECs role as an important multilateral economic cooperation mechanism and stand ready to work with other parties for a fruitful APEC summit. If there is any information about Chinas participation, we will release it in due course. NHK: Could you share more about the talks between the Chinese and Russian foreign ministers to be held tonight, for example, the issues to be discussed or the theme of the talks, and Chinas expectations? Mao Ning: We will release information about the upcoming exchanges with Russia in due course. Please check back for updates. Montana State University Billings is hosting the state's annual college and career fair from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Tuesday, Sept. 19, in the Alterowitz Gym at the Physical Education Building. Officially dubbed the Montana Post Secondary Educational Opportunity Council Billings College Fair, the statewide organization represents the 25 accredited institutions of higher education across Montana. The mission of MPSEOC is the promotion of higher education and post-secondary opportunities available throughout Montana and beyond to students, parents, and guidance counselors. Participants from across the state can attend the college fair circuit over the course of three weeks and learn about educational options after high school. Billings is one of the largest fairs with an estimated 2,500 students in attendance from area high schools. Students will have the opportunity to explore college options with over 100 college representatives from the northwest region, as well as learn about scholarships and financial aid. This event allows students to explore a variety of post-secondary options for local students, from military training and trade schools to two-year and four-year colleges, said Julie Pettit-Booth, executive director of New Student Services. Attendees can explore all their options for post-secondary education and have their questions answered in one place. The fair will also have a Career Exploration section featuring local businesses, specialized training programs, and local agencies that will educate Montana high school students about career pathways and degree options. This portion of the fair will take place inside the Student Union Building from 9 a.m. to noon on Sept. 19. Visitors will be directed to park in the parking garage on 27th Street and Poly Drive and in the Cisel Parking lot. University Police and New Student Services staff will be directing traffic on 27th Street and inside the parking area. For questions or more information about the event, please contact the Billings fair site-coordinator, Julie Pettit at Julie.pettitt@msubillings.edu. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A massive fire that engulfed an iconic skyscraper amid internal turmoil in Sudan has been lamented by the buildings architect as senseless destruction. The 18-storey Greater Nile Petroleum Oil Company Tower, that had become an emblem of capital Khartoum, was seen covered in flames early on Sunday during heavy fighting between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Civil strife has raged on in Sudan for six months now. Tagreed Abdin, the buildings senior architect in 2006, said seeing the skyscraper in flames was truly painful. The landmark project defined the skyline of Khartoum Such senseless destruction, she said on X. It remains unclear how the fire began in the huge building with a glass facade on all sides, and if there were any casualties. Viral videos on social media showed a huge blaze swirling around the charred and blackened remains of one of the tallest buildings in the Sudanese capital. A number of buildings and residential areas were consumed in the fire as well, as airstrikes struck Khartoum on 16 September, said the Sudan War Monitor, which provides analysis of the conflict. It said the RSF targeted areas controlled by the army, including an office tower of the Justice Ministry, two buildings at General Command and the Sudan Standards and Metrology Organisation. A fire raging fire at the Greater Nile Petroleum Oil Company Tower in Khartoum (AFP via Getty Images) Both the Sudanese army and RSF have deployed snipers in high-rise buildings, making it difficult for troops on either side to move freely, said the monito, making the buildings the target of attacks. Sudan has been under the grip of violence since 15 April when a power struggle began between the countrys army led by General Fattah Burhan and the paramilitary RSF, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. It was followed by days of tensions as members of RSF were deployed around the country, a move seen by the army as a threat. The conflict has killed more than 4,000 people and more than one million people have fled the country, according to figures released by the UN in August. The real toll is expected to be much higher. Meanwhile, in the western Darfur region, the conflict has turned into ethnic violence, with RSF and Arab militia allies fighting with ethnic African groups, according to rights groups and the UN. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Right-wing conspiracy theorist Alex Jones defended Russell Brand from rape and sexual assault allegations by saying the comedian is being targeted because hes come out against globalists. Jones said hes been friends with Brand for six years in a video recorded at an airport and circulated on social media on Sunday, a day after stunning allegations emerged against Brand. Ive never seen women throw themselves at anyone like with him, Jones said, comparing women throwing their panties at Elvis. Its like that, he said, adding that it was literally women jumping at us. No one ever accused him, for the last 15 years, of assault because they say hes such a big sweetheart. Jones claimed - without any evidence - that suddenly allegations are happening to Brand because he has come out against Big Pharma and the globalists. The allegations were revealed in a joint investigation released by British media outlets The Times, The Sunday Times and Channel 4 on Saturday (16 September). The report accused Brand of sexually assaulting four women between 2006 and 2013 - including a 16-year-old girl. Others have accused Brand of predatory and abusive behaviour. The comedian says he absolutely refutes the allegations and said his relationships were absolutely, always consensual. The BBC has said it has started to investigate the serious allegations about Mr Brand, who was a presenter for BBC Radio 2 and Channel 4 during that period. Mr Brand has repeatedly posted his complaints about big Pharma for several years, but the connection that Mr Jones is asserting between the actors views and the allegations against him is less than clear. Last year, Mr Jones was found guilty of defaming the families after suggesting the Sandy Hook mass shooting was a hoax and accusing the families of being actors; he owes the families $1.5bn. Sign up to our free US news bulletin sent straight to your inbox each weekday morning Sign up to our free morning US email news bulletin Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the US Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} An elderly Florida man has been arrested for allegedly shooting his neighbour dead while the victim was doing yardwork along the fence line with the suspect. Edward Druzolowski, 78, has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the fatal shooting of his 42-year-old neighbour Brian Ford, the Volusia Sheriffs Office said in a statement. After receiving reports of a shooting shortly after 7pm on Sunday, authorities responded to a home in the DeLeon Springs neighbourhood, which is located about 45 miles from Orlando. Witnesses told deputies that Ford was trimming bushes over his property line when Mr Druzolowski came outside and allegedly opened fire. Officers at the scene performed CPR on Ford but he was pronounced deceased on the scene. The sheriffs office said that the confrontation unfolded when Mr Druzolowski demanded to know why Ford was on his property. Mr Druzolowski reportedly told detectives that he threatened to shoot Ford and proceeded to act on his threats when Ford didnt leave. Mr Druzolowski was booked into the Volusia County Branch Jail and is being held without bond pending an arraignment. Sign up to our free US news bulletin sent straight to your inbox each weekday morning Sign up to our free morning US email news bulletin Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the US Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A 29-year-old man was arrested early Monday morning in the killing of a Los Angeles County sheriffs deputy who was gunned down over the weekend in what authorities believed to be a targeted ambush. The suspect, identified as Kevin Salazar, barricaded himself in his Palmdale home for hours before finally surrendering, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna said during a press conference Monday. The arrest came just 36 hours after 30-year-old Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer was fatally shot while he sat in his patrol car at an intersection in Palmdale. We are extremely confident we have the right person in custody, Sheriff Luna said, adding that the investigation is still ongoing and urged the community to keep sending in tips. Clinkunbroomer was on duty Saturday night and sitting in his patrol car at an intersection in Palmdale, California, when he was ambushed, LA Sheriff Robert Luna said. The deputy was found unconscious by a good samaritan around 6pm. Without warning, he was murdered while serving our community, an emotional Luna said at a Sunday news conference. He ambushed and killed murdered one of our deputies, Mr Luna said, describing the suspect as a public safety threat. LASD deputy who was shot and killed in what appears to be a targeted ambush (LASD / Facebook) Sheriff Luna said authorities have not yet determined a motive for the killing. He described the situation as fluid and said there could be more arrests but that he believes the suspect is the person who killed the deputy. Our deputy was in uniform in a marked black-and-white police vehicle right in front of the station, Luna said. Why did he do this? I have no idea. Was he targeted? Im assuming he was but ... our intent is to find out. Hundreds attended a vigil outside the Palmdale sheriffs station Sunday for the third-generation law-enforcement officer who had got engaged just four days before he was shot and killed. He was just starting his life, the sheriff said. The sheriff also released a statement on Facebook, writing that the eight-year veteran of the LASD was senselessly murdered tonight. From everything I know about Ryan, people absolutely loved and adored him. He wasnt just one of our Deputy Sheriffs. He was a third generation deputy. His father and grandfather served with us, the statement read. Service was running through his veins. He embodied the values of bravery, selflessness and was committed to justice. Our deputy was a devoted family member and a cherished community member. He was cowardly shot while working tirelessly to serve our community this evening, the sheriff added. A statement from Clinkunbroomers family was read by the sheriff on Monday, saying he was dedicated, hardworking and proud to serve alongside his colleagues. Ryan made the ultimate sacrifice in doing so, the statement said. Ryan was recently engaged to the love of his life. As our firstborn son, Ryan will be greatly missed by his family, friends and the sheriffs department as a whole. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} General Motors CEO Mary Barra defended her $29m salary as nearly 150,000 workers represented by the United Auto Workers began a historic strike on Friday. Ms Barra, who is the highest-paid CEO among the Detroit Big Three automakers whose workers are striking, told CNN her salary was justified because it is tied to company performance, just as workers own profit-sharing agreements are. My compensation, 92 per cent of it is based on the performance of the company, she said on Friday. One of the strong aspects of the way our compensation for our represented employees is designed is not only are we putting a 20 per cent [wage] increase on the table. We have profit sharing. When the company does well, everybody does well. The executives own salary has risen 34 per cent over the last four years. About 146,000 workers at GM, Ford, and Stellantis-owned Chrysler began a series of staggered strikes on Friday, after negotiators passed a 14 September deadline to reach a deal between the UAW and the Big Three. In August, UAW members voted to strike if an agreement couldnt be reached. The massive auto union argues that worker wages havent kept up with company profits and executive compensation. For the last 40 years, the billionaire class has been taking everything and leaving everybody else to fight for the scraps, UAW president Shawn Fain said in a speech last week. We are not the problem. Corporate greed is the problem. Mary Barra, CEO of GM, is under fire for her $29m salary as Detroit auto workers go on strike (Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) After the 2008 financial crisis, Detroit automakers underwent major restructuring as part of the federal financial bailout. Part of that restructuring included major changes to working conditions including a two-tiered, tenure-based pay schedule, an increase in temporary workers, and the end of defined-benefit pensions all issues the union is hoping to tackle with its set of demands. Part of whats motivating [wage increases] is an interest in the workers sharing in the success that the company has been experiencing, and share in it in a way that seems commensurate with the way that the corporate leadership has shared in that success, Sharon Block, executive director of Harvard Law Schools Center for Labor and a Just Economy, told Vox. When you think about it as an increase that represents a fair share of profits from three very profitable companies of late, it may look different. The UAW has asked for a 36 per cent wage increase over four years, in part to match similar increases in CEO compensation, and has also pushed for a 32-hour work week. Ford and GM have offered a 20 per cent raise, while Stellantis has offered 17.5 per cent so far. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} US military officials are looking for an F-35 fighter jet that disappeared somewhere near South Carolina after an incident forced the pilot to eject. On Sunday, a Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II jet suffered a mishap during a flight causing the pilot to eject himself to safety somewhere near the Air Force base, Joint Base Charleston approximately five miles outside of Charleston. Though the pilot was located and safe, somehow, the jet went missing. It is unclear what happened during the flight that caused the pilot to eject. The Joint Base Charleston only referred to it as a mishap. Now, the Marine Corps, Air Force and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have launched a cooperative search effort. On X, formerly known as Twitter, Joint Base Charleston sought information from the public. If you have any information that may help our recovery teams locate the F-35, please call the Base Defense Operations Center at 843-963-3600. Based on the jets last-known position and in coordination with the FAA, we are focusing our attention north of JB Charleston, around Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion, Joint Base Charleston said. A spokesman at Joint Base Charleston told The Washington Post that the jets transponder, which would typically help locate the aircraft, was not working. They have yet to identify the cause of the malfunction. Lockheed Martin, the company that manufactures the F-35, describes the fighter jet as The most lethal, survivable and connected fighter jet in the world. It is often described as one of the most stealth jets due to its design and power which make it more difficult for a normal aircraft to detect. The Independent has reached out to Joint Base Charleston and Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort for comment. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called on Elon Musk, the head of electric carmaker Tesla, to establish a factory in Turkey during a meeting in New York, Erdogans office said Monday. Erdogan, who is in the U.S. to attend the U.N. General Assembly, also discussed potential cooperation between Musks space exploration firm SpaceX and Turkeys space program, the Turkish president's office said. The statement said Erdogan told Musk that Turkey would welcome cooperation on artificial intelligence and Starlink, SpaceXs satellite internet service. Musk said SpaceX wanted to secure the necessary license to offer Starlink in Turkey. Images of the meeting showed Musk holding one of his sons as he talked to Erdogan. Turkish Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacir, who attended the meeting, said Musk described Turkey as among the most important candidates for Tesla investment. He added that Musk and Erdogan also discussed Turkeys armed aerial drone program. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A missing man was found by hunters after being trapped for days in his truck in a muddy and wooded area of New Hampshire. Robert Brown, 65, drove 15 miles from his home in Maine to drop his wife off in Rochester, New Hampshire, on Thursday. She raised the alarm on Friday and told authorities that she had not seen her husband since they parted. But when investigators tried to locate him by his phone they found that it had died. He was eventually found on Saturday afternoon by two hunters in nearby Dover, New Hampshire, reported WMUR-TV. Officials say that Mr Brown had been driving his vehicle when it went over an embankment into a wooded area and became stuck in the mud and he was trapped inside. This is generally not accessed by people from the public, Dover Fire Department Lt. Patrick Simmons told WMUR-TV. I dont know how he got out here. He told the TV station that the area was commonly used by city workers to dump sand and dirt. The hunters spotted the truck while out in the woods and called rescue crews, who followed the tracks down the embankment where they found Mr Brown. He was removed from the truck and taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, said police. Close Aftermath of Russian missile strike on Ukraine mail depot that killed six For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Ukrainian troops have made confirmed advances near Bakhmut, Donetsk, and Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia, according to the Institute for the Study of War. Geolocated footage posted on 30 October shows that Ukrainian forces have advanced northeast of Kurdyumivka (10km southwest of Bakhmut), it said. Ukrainian forces have also marginally advanced west of Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia, according to geolocated footage seen by the think tank. It comes as Kyiv said it had successfully hit a strategic object of the air defence system in western Crimea. Russian sources said the attack was carried out using combined long-range weapons like ATACMS, storm shadow missiles and sea drones. The Russian Ministry of Defence confirmed its air defence systems destroyed eight Storm Shadow cruise missiles over the peninsula. If confirmed, this would be the first time Ukraine has used the top-tier missile system provided by the US to hit targets on the Crimean coast. Meanwhile, Russia has bulked up its forces around the devastated city of Bakhmut in the east and has switched its troops from a defensive posture to taking active actions, a Ukrainian military commander said. It is one of Spains most shameful periods thousands of babies snatched from their mothers across half a century. From the end of the Spanish civil war to the early 1990s, tens of thousands of children became so-called stolen babies. These newborns were victims of General Francisco Francos desire to cleanse the nation by taking the babies of left-wingers or Republicans and giving them to childless couples who were more sympathetic to the regime. After Francos death, children were still taken away from their mothers by priests, nuns, midwives, or hospital workers for money and sold on via the secretive adoption networks that had been created. The mothers were sometimes in prison, not married or judged to be of dubious moral background. In other cases, women fell foul of baby thieves. Mandan residents will get a chance to comment this week on a proposed cigar lounge ordinance, which faces opposition from a coalition of health advocacy groups. Owner of Big Stick Cigars Josette Dupree in July requested the Mandan City Commission to allow cigar lounges following the loosening of the states smoking restrictions earlier this year. The commission unanimously approved the first reading of the ordinance. The public on Tuesday will be given an opportunity to comment on the ordinance prior to the commission voting again during a regularly scheduled city commission meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Mandan City Hall at 205 2nd Ave. NW. Representatives from a coalition of health advocacy groups, including the American Heart Association, American Lung Association, Tobacco Free North Dakota and the American Cancer Society, voiced opposition in a statement last week. There is no safe level of second-hand smoke, and studies have repeatedly shown there is no ventilation system capable of filtering out all smoke particles," the statement said. Regional Media Advocacy Manager at the American Cancer Society Shawn ONeal told the Tribune there will be several organizations speaking against the ordinance at the meeting. Mandan Mayor Tim Helbling at the last commission meeting said he received very little input from our community, but he did receive letters and emails from outside of Mandan. Rep. Dan Ruby, R-Minot, brought forth House Bill 1229 that allows for indoor smoking of cigars at licensed lounges that are enclosed on all sides and equipped with a humidor and a ventilation system. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Watch as US detainees land in Qatar on Monday, 18 September, after a prisoner swap was brokered with Iran. The detainees were greeted by Qatari and US officials as they arrived at Doha International Airport. Five US detainees have flown out of Iran today in a swap for five Iranians held in the US. The rare deal has been brokered by Qatar between the enemies that also unfroze $6bn of Tehran's funds. A Qatari plane took off from Tehran carrying the five detainees and two of their relatives after the US and Iran received confirmation that the funds had been transferred to accounts in Doha, according to a source cited by Reuters. The funds were blocked in South Korea after US sanctions on Iran were toughened in 2018. Qatar will ensure the money, which is now available to Tehran, will be spent on humanitarian goods and not items under US sanctions. An Iranian official said the five Americans, who have dual nationality and are due to fly to the US, are in "good health." Footage from 2018 shows Russell Brand claiming to have kissed Meghan Markle while working on a film with her before she married the Duke of Sussex. The comedian, 48, talked to Loose Women about working with the now-Duchess of Sussex on the 2010 film Get Him to the Greek while out of it. IMDb lists Meghans credit for the film as Tatiana (uncredited). Brand said: I dont remember the film that much... still out of it... I think I planted one on her. If you have information in relation to the allegations against Russell Brand which you would like to share with The Independents reporting team, please email news@independent.co.uk A former governor of the Bank of England has accused ex-prime minister Liz Truss of turning Britain into Argentina on the Channel. Mark Carney also said Brexiteers, such as the former Conservative leader, had a "basic misunderstanding of what drives economies". Speaking at the Global Progress Action Summit in Montreal, the former Bank boss hit out at the "misguided view" that cutting taxes and government spending leads to economic growth - and accused Brexiteers of wanting to "tear down the future". Former Prime Minister Liz Truss joked that she is having a more relaxing September this year than last as she gave a speech on economic growth at the Institute for Government. Truss said: I am having a rather more relaxing September than I did last year. You might well ask why am I back talking about the same topic, but it is one year ago since I launched my government and our economic policy. She also revealed she was certainly not keen on returning to Downing Street as she urged the government to cut UK taxes. Environmentalists have held a wake to mark the death of the UK and Irelands largest freshwater lake as they accused polluters of causing a huge bloom of toxic blue-green algae. Activists dressed in black and carried a makeshift coffin to the shore of Lough Neagh in Northern Ireland on Sunday, September 17. A wreath with the name of the lough was placed atop the black coffin during an event on Ballyronan beach, Co Londonderry, organised to highlight the scale of the ecological damage. Lough Neagh supplies 40% of Northern Irelands drinking water. It also sustains a major eel fishing industry. US citizens walked off a plane after landing in Qatar on Monday, 18 September, after a prisoner swap was brokered with Iran. Five US detainees were flown out of Iran today to Doha International Airport in a swap for five Iranians held in the US. The rare deal has been brokered by Qatar between the enemies that also unfroze $6bn of Tehran's funds. The funds were blocked in South Korea after US sanctions on Iran were toughened in 2018. Qatar will ensure the money, which is now available to Tehran, will be spent on humanitarian goods and not items under US sanctions. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Donald Trump may have stepped in it during his recent NBC News interview. Mr Trump was the marquee guest for Kristen Welkers first Sunday as host of Meet the Press. Unsurprisingly, plenty of super-online liberals complained that Welker, a longtime respected White House reporter who moderated one of the 2020 presidential debates and has aggressively covered multiple administrations, let Mr Trump slip away. Some of the concerns are understandable, but many liberals purely resent the idea that Mr Trump should be interviewed by mainstream news organisations at all despite the fact that a large swath of the country still supports him and he is almost guaranteed to become the 2024 Republican nominee for president. But one aspect of the interview stood out and will likely be highlighted by prosecutors in Mr Trumps legal battles. At one point Welker asked if the former president declared he had won the 2020 election on the advice of his outside attorneys or if he had relied on his own instincts. Donald Trump addresses election rigging in Meet the Press interview: It was my decision As to whether or not I believed it was rigged? Sure, it was my decision, the twice-impeached, four-times indicted former president said. The former presidents words were probably, like most of his words, extemporaneous. But they may ultimately wind up hurting the president in his legal battles. Prosecutors have argued that Mr Trump not only attempted to defraud the American public, but that he did so when he knew that it was not the truth. Last month, a grand jury indicted the former president after a four-hour presentation by special counsel Jack Smith for an alleged plot to overturn the 2020 presidential election. A core tenet of the indictment states that Mr Trump and his co-conspirators used knowingly false claims of election fraud to get state legislators and election officials to subvert the legitimate election results and change electoral votes for the Defendants opponent, Joseph R. Biden, Jr., to electoral votes for the Defendant. The indictment also alleged that Mr Trump repeated knowingly false claims of election fraud to gathered supporters, falsely told them that the Vice President had the authority to and might alter the election results, and directed them to the Capitol to obstruct the certification proceeding and exert pressure. If Mr Trump admits that he knowingly deceived the public, this would be a boon to the prosecution. Mr Trumps legal team could no longer rely on the defence that he was simply listening to the counsel of his attorneys. Indeed, throughout the interview, he said he disregarded the words of his attorneys, notably criticising his former attorney general William Barr, who has said that Mr Trumps claims of election fraud were bulls***. Similarly, during the January 6 select committee hearings, Liz Cheney said that former New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani who is also indicted in the case in Fulton County, Georgia reportedly drunkenly told Mr Trump he should just declare victory prematurely. All of this will give Mr Smiths team more fodder to say that Mr Trump knowingly tried to overturn the election and that he was not simply following the advice of counsel. In turn, this could make their jobs easier while making Mr Trumps life that much harder. Indeed, if Mr Trumps words wind up incriminating him, liberals might change their tune on Welkers style of questioning of the former president. Dublin footballer Ciaran Kilkenny at the launch of Ballygowan and Energise Sport's three-year partnership deal with Dublin GAA in June 2021. Photo: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile Ballygowan owner Britvic Ireland is to invest 6m at its facility in Newcastle West, Co Limerick, to expand production of the bottled water brand. It will also result in an additional 28 jobs at the site, said the company. The investment will enable the site to increase production of Ballygowan by more than 20pc as demand for the product continues to grow. It will see the site having extra capacity to produce the equivalent of 50 million half-litre bottles of Ballygowan a year. Ballygowan bottles are made from recycled and recyclable plastic (rPET), following a 2m investment in the Newcastle West facility in 2021. When recycled correctly, rPET bottles can be reused continuously. Ballygowan is Irelands leading bottled water brand, and consumer demand has grown steadily in recent years with sales of Ballygowan products undergoing strong double-digit volume growth compared to pre-Covid levels, according to the group. Ballygowan has been bottled from its source in Newcastle West since 1984 and sales of Hint of Fruit Ballygowan have performed strongly recently. Britvic Ireland also owns brands such MiWadi and Robinsons, and in Ireland and the UK also distributes products including Pepsi Max, 7Up and Lipton Ice Tea. Britvic acquired Ballygowan from C&C in 2007 as part of a 250m deal that saw it buy a clutch of brands. The deal will see the company increase its portfolio of Irish solar projects to 600MW Ireland is aiming to significantly increase its solar power capacity by the end of the decade. Photo: PA rsted, Denmarks largest energy company, has struck a deal with Dublin-based Terra Solar to develop a major portfolio of solar farms in Ireland. rsted said the two firms will together develop a portfolio with a capacity of up to 400 megawatts (MW). It said this would produce enough electricity to meet the annual demands of 90,000 homes. The deal will see the company increase its portfolio of Irish solar projects to 600MW, following the signing of two separate agreements with Terra Solar in recent years. The announcement is the latest move from rsted into the Irish market, where it already has a large portfolio of onshore wind farms. rsted did not specify where the new solar farms will be built. However, it said that subject to grid route consent and a grid offer, it expects all of the developments to be operating by 2030. The firm said this would align with Irelands targets to significantly increase its solar power capacity by the end of the decade. rsted said the electricity produced from the solar farms has several potential routes to market. These include the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme, a government initiative which provides subsidies to renewable firms, as well as corporate power purchase agreements. The Danish firm develops, constructs, and operates offshore and onshore wind farms, solar farms, as well as a variety of other renewable developments. The firm employs 8,000 people worldwide and had revenues of almost 18bn in 2022 rsted currently operates 378 MW of onshore wind across the island of Ireland, producing enough electricity for over 230,000 homes. rsted currently has two Irish solar projects in development, and earlier this year, the company announced a partnership with ESB to jointly develop an Irish offshore wind portfolio. rsteds Irish headquarters are in Cork city, where it employs over 100 people. Terra Solar was founded by David Fewer and Andre Fernon in 2016. The companys backers include the ESB, which previously invested 2.5m in the business. rsted and Terra Solar have worked together previously, with the Danish firm last year acquiring Terras 65MW Ballinrea project located in Cork. In March, rsted acquired Terra Solars 160MW Garrenleen project in Carlow. TJ Hunter, rsteds senior director of operations for the UK and Ireland, said: We are delighted to extend our existing collaboration with Terra Solar on the development of these projects which will contribute to rsteds global goal of 17.5 GW (gigawatts) of onshore renewables by 2030. Mr Hunter said that solar energy is an essential component for enabling the Irish power system to run entirely on green energy. Ireland has seen several amber alerts on warm summer days with low wind speeds, the cost of electricity is too high due to over-reliance on fossil fuel, and the carbon intensity of Irelands electricity is among the highest in Europe, he said. To solve these issues and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, we need to grow solar energy in parallel with onshore wind, offshore wind, and energy storage. Andrei Fernon, a director at Terra Solar, said the company is delighted to be working in partnership with rsted on the solar projects. With a combined capacity of up to 400MW, this partnership will contribute significantly to Irelands low-carbon future, strengthen our indigenous energy supply, and ensure competitively priced green electricity for Irish consumers, he said. While a handful of online firms pushed Corks overall online payments growth to 3,660pc, Wexford had the highest median growth among small firms, at 300pc Almost all counties have shown faster growth than Dublin for internet payments in recent years, according to new data released by Stripe. In its first breakdown of figures for Ireland, where Stripe claims tens of thousands of customers, the Collison brothers firm revealed that it has recorded payments of over 20bn from Irish customers in the last decade. The data also shows that between 2018 and 2022, Cork (3,660pc), Carlow (1,890pc) and Galway (1,620pc) saw the fastest online payments growth among Stripe customers. Cork came out top due to a handful of internet-native firms founded in the county in recent years. Other strong growth was recorded in Westmeath (1,400pc), Tipperarary (1,090pc) Longford (970pc), Cavan (970pc), Laois (920pc), Mayo (900pc) and Kildare (850pc). When median-user payment volume growth, which is a more representative figure of how most firms are doing, is counted, Wexford comes out on top, with 300pc growth among over 1,000 Stripe customers between 2018 and 2022. Tipperary (290pc), Cavan (290pc), Leitrim (270pc) and Sligo (270pc) were the next highest for median payments growth. However, Dublin remains the dominant country in Irelands internet economy will all seven previously-described unicorns (firms privately valued at over $1bn) located within, or around, the capital. The data also shows that more than 80pc of the payments to Irish digital native companies came from cross-border sources. Small businesses collected over 500 million in revenue from international customers last year and early stage startups pursued an international strategy from the beginning, receiving 51pc of their payments volume from outside Ireland, said the report. The Stripe figures also suggest a more varied set of export patterns compared to general exports, which are often dominated by trade with the US. Stripe customers exported primarily to the US (17pc), the UK (16pc), France (14pc) and Spain (8pc), with France begin the fastest-growing export market among Stripe customers. Thinking back to when we launched Stripe, Irelands tech scene is like night and day, said Stripe co-founder John Collison of the Irish Stripe figures. Tech founders would find it impossibly difficult to raise money and compete for talent, and small businesses simply didnt have the tools to operate online. Nowadays, Ireland produces software companies at industrial scale, and the internet economy is everywhere. Founded in San Francisco in 2010, Stripe describes its Dublin office as its joint global headquarters. Last year, its announced layoffs of 14pc of its workforce, also impacting its Irish base. The financial payments giant, co-founded by Limerick brothers Patrick and Collison, raised $6.5bn in fresh funding in March, lowering its valuation from $95bn to $50bn. "Stripes data provides a window into Irelands growth, said the report. "In 2013, only a few hundred Irish businesses used Stripe. Now, tens of thousands of ventures run on Stripe, with hundreds more joining every week. They include technology companies such as Glofox and Wayflyer that were built on Stripe from day one, and heritage enterprises like the GAA, Irish Life, and Smyths Toys Superstores that are reinventing themselves for the digital age. Over the last decade, Irish businesses have processed more than 20 billion on Stripe. Brig. Gen. Jackie Huber is the second-highest ranking officer of North Dakotas National Guard, serving as its deputy adjutant general. She was nominated last year for a certificate that would make her eligible to compete for a promotion if the top job became vacant, but there's been no movement since. Thats all thanks to one member of the Senate Armed Services Committee Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Alabama who has single-handedly stopped hundreds of military nominations from his seat on the committee. At the center of the freeze is Tubervilles opposition to a Department of Defense policy that provides abortion-seeking service members and dependents with paid time off and reimbursements for travel costs. Congress was on recess throughout August, but lawmakers returned to Capitol Hill at the beginning of this month as they turn their attention to a plethora of pressing policy issues amid a looming threat of a government shutdown. And ahead of their return to Washington, both of North Dakotas Republican senators were careful to balance their anti-abortion viewpoints with the potential impact of delays in defense nominations in statements to the Tribune. Sen. Kevin Cramer serves on the Armed Services Committee with Tuberville. As a result, hes had more opportunities than most to familiarize himself with Tubervilles stance. Tuberville opposes the Defense policy, which was a response to the 2022 reversal of Roe v. Wade, because he believes the practice is illegal as it allows the government to fund abortions. The Department of Defense has pushed back on that claim, saying the policy simply allows service members and dependents to get reproductive procedures that arent consistently available across the country. Tuberville has said his end goal is to draw a vote for legislation on the policy on the Senate floor, rather than a decision made by Defense leaders. Cramer told the Tribune he doesnt see Tuberville backing down any time soon, and he believes the Alabama senator has the moral high ground on the issue. They just keep throwing it in his face rather than collaborating and cooperating with him to find a way out of this, Cramer said. When I talk to Tommy, what I sense from him is a strong conviction that he's on the right course. And there's no way he's going to move off until he gets something that he wants out of it. Tubervilles hold on nominations began in February in response to the Department of Defenses new abortion policy. And Tuberville and Cramer both argue that the historic freeze leaves Senate Democrats with a clear solution: Bring military nominations to the full Senate for a vote, instead of leaving them to the committee. The Senate is already navigating a slate of essential issues in the coming months, including the looming threat of a government shutdown to and the 2023 Farm Bill. And Tubervilles freeze has lasted for over six months, and is impacting hundreds of nominations, including those that would fill vacancies for the chiefs of the Army, Navy and Marine Corps. A candidate for one of those positions -- Adm. Lisa Franchetti, who is up for the Navy's top role -- said Thursday during her confirmation hearing that she expected it would take years for the military to recover from the freeze. The North Dakota National Guard, Minot Air Force Base and Grand Forks Air Force Base did not respond to Tribune requests for comment. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-New York, and his Democratic colleagues have resisted the idea of bringing key nominations to the floor because its a problem created by Republicans, and is therefore their issue to fix, according to The Associated Press. Democrats say bringing nominations to the floor could tie up the Senate for months, and could set a concerning precedent. As a result of the hold, Tuberville has come under fire from Defense leaders, including in a recent Washington Post op-ed where the Army, Navy and Air Force secretaries called his hold dangerous for national security. The defense leaders also lambasted the personal toll on nominated military members, whose families are impacted by the uncertainty of the freeze as well. Sen. John Hoeven, meanwhile, has adopted a stance in line with many other Republicans: Hes turned to the National Defense Authorization Act as a potential solution to the matter, while still decrying the Department of Defenses abortion policy. Our military should be focused on defending our nation, not promoting a social agenda, Hoeven said in a statement to the Tribune. At the same time, the nomination process needs to advance, but the Biden administration and the DoD leaders should be following the law, which prevents taxpayer funding for abortions. We are hopeful that this issue can be resolved in the National Defense Authorization Act. The Democrat-led Senate and Republican-led House both finished their own iterations of the bill before Congress took its August recess. But showdowns over climate and energy policy as well as the abortion issue leave the timeline for the bills completion uncertain. Democrats are seemingly unwilling to budge on the abortion policy, and Tuberville is doubling down on his stance, recently even questioning some of the nominees themselves. That means the future of these nominations will remain uncertain, even as Tuberville has drawn more ire from some Republican colleagues since the end of the recess. Cramer said he is concerned about the potential impact of the hold on members of the armed forces who are located in North Dakota, but respects Tubervilles conviction on the matter. And, he added, hes not completely sure that there isnt another Republican who might try the same tactic if Tuberville backs down. Its the kind of standoff thats not uncommon in Washington, whether in the Senate or the House. At the beginning of this session, a small group of Republican U.S. representatives drew out the often mundane Speaker of the House selection to bolster their own power and receive key concessions from the eventual majority leader. And early in Bidens presidency, Sen. Joe Manchin, D-West Virginia, was responsible for the slow paring back of the presidents Build Back Better agenda. Cramer said he hopes to see some form of compromise as Republicans and Democrats alike look to resolve the matter with his preferred methods being the advancements of key nominations through the full Senate and a Senate vote on the abortion policy itself. The Department of Defense, however, has defended its stance: Spokespeople have repeatedly told reporters they do not intend to compromise with Tuberville, and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized in a March hearing that it is not a law; it is a policy. (Tuberville) hasn't made any progress on the policy. And at the end of the day, we have to be careful to not harm other people in our quest to protect another group of people. And so I worry a little bit about it, Cramer said. I think Tommy's well within his rights to do it, and I admire his convictions toward it. But I would hope he would work within the Department of Defense, and the administration, and frankly, the Democrats in the Senate, on some sort of a compromise. (Editors note: This story has been updated to clarify the status of Huber.) It was terrifying, but Id love to do more acting Patrick Kielty on his first film Ballywalter As the acclaimed Irish drama hits screens this week, the new Late Late Show host and co-star Seana Kerslake discuss reviews and working during lockdown Patrick Kielty and Seana Kerslake speak about their new film Ballywalter Chris Wasser Mon 18 Sep 2023 at 14:54 Heres a fun fact for Irish cinema lovers: Brendan Gleeson, esteemed Oscar nominee and bona fide national treasure, was in his mid-30s by the time he made his first film, Dear Sarah. A late start but Patrick Kielty might not think so. Some farmers have claimed the reduction in the nitrate limit will force them to reduce herd sizes. Stock Image: Getty The Taoiseach did not overrule the Agriculture Minister on the EU nitrates derogation issue, a Government colleague has insisted. Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue last week made clear that Brussels would not reverse its decision to reduce the volume of nitrogen produced per hectare in Ireland. Ireland is one of three EU member states that is granted a derogation to enable some farmers to work to a higher nitrate limit than is applied in the rest of the bloc. However, that allowance is now being reduced in response to concerns about water quality levels in Ireland. Farmers held protests at Fianna Fail and Fine Gaels respective think-in events last week, insisting the reduction in the nitrate limit would force them to reduce herd sizes. At the Fianna Fail picket in Co Tipperary, the farmers declined to have a meeting with Mr McConalogue, insisting they would only speak with his party leader and Tanaiste Micheal Martin. Charlie McConalogue had said Brussels would not reverse its decision (PA) At the Fine Gael think-in later in the week, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar met farming representatives in Co Limerick and during talks he agreed to invite EU Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevicius for a meeting in Ireland to discuss the derogation issue. That led to suggestions that the Taoiseach had intervened to overrule Mr McConalogues position that he would not be going back to the EU to renegotiate the limit cut. Fine Gael minister of state at the Department of Agriculture Martin Heydon rejected that characterisation. He said the meeting requested by the Taoiseach would focus more on the renewal of the four-year derogation when the current one expires at the end of 2025. Mr Heydon accompanied Mr Varadkar at the meeting with the Irish Farmers Association (IFA) in Limerick on Friday. Just to nail this point, the Taoiseach did not go over his head (Mr McConalogues), Mr Heydon told RTE Radio Ones This Week programme. Leo Varadkar told farmers he would invite the EU commissioner to Ireland to discuss the derogation issue (PA) I spoke with Minister McConalogue straight after the meeting with the IFA to brief him on what had happened in the meeting. He had been in the Agriculture Committee at that time and he filled me in on how that had gone. He was happy enough for that letter (invitation) to go to commissioner because thats following on from an invitation that he has extended to the commissioner and that letter to the commissioner is in consultation with minister McConalogue. Its an important point. Mr Heydon said it was clear that the commissioner would not revisit the nitrate reduction, however he said details still had to be worked out on the mapping zones of where it would apply. Fianna Fail minister of state Niall Collins also insisted the EU was not for turning on the derogation issue. I think we have to face up to the challenge of improving our water quality in this country, he told RTEs The Week In Politics programme. There is a challenge, obviously, for the Government and for the farming community to work our way through this and were committed to doing that. PA Petter Landfald from Norway and Tyler McKinlay from Scotland were crowned World Champion and Young Handler World Champion respectively at the World Sheepdog Trials in Co Down. Petter Landfald from Norway and Tyler McKinlay from Scotland were crowned World Champion and Young Handler World Champion respectively at the World Sheepdog Trials in Co Down. The world champion sheepdog and handler has been revealed after beating off competition in Co Down. Norway native Petter Landfald and his dog Max are celebrating the big win at the World Sheepdog Trials which took place at Gill Hall Estate in Dromore. They went head-to-head with 16 of the worlds best sheepdogs and handlers during three days of qualifiers before emerging victorious on Saturday. Tyler McKinlay (17) from Lanark in Scotland and her dog, Heatherstane Squiggle, were also named Young Handler World Champion at the event. John McCullough, Chairman of the World Trial Committee, has congratulated Petter and Tyler on securing their world titles following an outstanding performance. The standards shown at the trials this week have been exceptional so to walk away with world titles is certainly no mean feat," he said. "It was an absolute joy to watch Petter and Tyler in action in the competition field over the past few days and especially today (Saturday). "Huge congratulations to Petter and Tyler thoroughly well deserved. This is the first year that the trials have had an all-female final in the junior competition. Mr McCullough said it has been his privilege to host the event in Gill Hall Estate. "We have welcomed approximately 30,000 spectators alongside 240 handlers from over 30 different countries over the past four days which has hugely boosted many local businesses and the wider economy, he added. Northern Ireland has a rich farming history and were so proud to have contributed to this by bringing a once in a lifetime event to our shores. "We hope that everyone who attended throughout the week enjoyed witnessing the incredible partnership between sheepdogs and their handlers. Meanwhile, CEO of the International Sheep Dog Society Isabel Branch added: The 2023 World Sheepdog Trials have been a huge success and on behalf of the committee, we are delighted. We have seen lots of tough competition and its a testament to farmers around the world who remain committed to preserving more traditional methods of farming and to promoting the very best in terms of breeding. Congratulations to Petter and Tyler on your world titles. Being crowned the best in the world at whats known as the Olympics of the sheepdog community, is a remarkable achievement! Sincere thanks to our sponsors ABP Food Group, Randox Health and Gilbertson & Page Ltd without your generous contributions, we wouldnt have been able to run such a successful event. The full list of prize winners can be found on the World Sheep Dog Trials website. Antique store find helped re-tell the story of Irelands most bitter divorce from 1876 Actor Patrick Bergin, whose partner is the great granddaughter of the woman at the centre of the divorce, hopes to to turn story into film Helen Goldin Breen, descendent of Lady Catherine Louisa Moore Morgan, with partner actor Patrick Bergin. Photo: Phillip Massey Ralph Riegel Mon 18 Sep 2023 at 03:30 It was Irelands most notorious divorce case which dominated newspaper headlines during the Victorian era. A source close to the investigation described it as a "test case which is hoped will lead to charges. Stock image. Photo: Getty Gardai have launched a criminal probe into the death of a nursing home resident during the Covid-19 pandemic. The inquiries relate to a nursing home in the south of the country and centre around the care and treatment given to the resident in the lead up to their death. A significant number of residents in the facility died after contracting Covid-19. A team of detectives have begun taking statements from relatives of the deceased, current and former staff at the facility, funeral undertakers and other relevant parties. Inquiries are ongoing. In a statement, gardai said they are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death in a residential facility in Cork in February 2021. A source close to the investigation described it as a test case which is hoped will lead to charges. News of the criminal probe comes as families of some of those who died in nursing homes continue to initiate civil action against the private and state-run operators of the facilities. To date, a total of 59 families are to sue the HSE for damages after their loved ones contracted Covid-19 and died while in the care of State-run facilities and private nursing homes. The State Claims Agency (SCA), which manages personal injury and property damage claims taken against the State and State authorities, said the claims relate to deaths that occurred in private nursing homes, community health units and hospitals during the pandemic. In a breakdown of the claims that have been initiated, the SCA said that 43 related to private nursing homes, six to acute hospitals and 10 to community settings. Two claims relate to the death of a healthcare worker. On This Day In History - September 18th The HSE is also facing 39 legal claims arising from Covid-19 infection allegedly acquired in the workplace. A claim means that the SCA has received notification of intention to seek compensation where it is alleged the State was negligent. Law firm PA Duffy previously told the Irish Independent it has issued dozens of wrongful death suits against privately operated nursing homes, but that in many cases the HSE is also a proposed defendant. We have been instructed by a number of bereaved families to pursue wrongful death actions against private and publicly run nursing homes, said aid Enda McGarrity of PA Duffy Solicitors. Pre action letters have been sent to both individual nursing homes and the HSE in cases where it is alleged that both service providers are responsible in some capacity for the provision of care to residents. High Court proceedings have now been lodged in a number of cases. The HSE has an overriding duty to intervene in circumstances where a private home is unable to meet the care needs of its residents. We are aware of a number of circumstances during the pandemic where the HSE was asked to intervene in the early stages of Covid-19 outbreaks but failed to do so in a timely or effective manner. It is alleged that various nursing homes and the State more generally have breached their duty of care to deceased residents. This has arguably resulted in the accelerated transmission of Covid-19 in care home settings and ultimately caused or contributed to many avoidable deaths. In the absence of a public inquiry or indeed any form of appropriate investigation in to nursing home deaths, families have been forced to resort to litigation. Earlier this month, the Sunday Independent revealed that an inquiry into the States response to the Covid-19 pandemic is to be announced by the Government before the end of next month. It is understood that the situations in nursing homes will be closely scrutinised. The Garda statement added: As this is an ongoing criminal investigation An Garda Siochana has no further comment at this time. MLAs words aimed at London spark warning that his partys boycott is boosting support for a united Ireland Edwin Poots has been warned to be careful what he wishes for after he said it would take a seismic intervention from the UK government to see his party return to Stormont. The former DUP leader claimed what was on offer from London was not enough to end its boycott of the institutions because of the Brexit protocol. Pressure is growing on the DUP to return to power-sharing after more than a year. Mr Poots told BBC NIs Sunday Politics programme he wanted to see Stormont back, but said what has been on the table heretofore is nowhere near adequate to bring the DUP back into the room. He added: I think that we need to see something seismic coming from Downing Street and its going to take something significant to make that happen. Talks between the DUP and the UK government have been ongoing over the summer and Northern Ireland Secretary of State Chris Heaton-Harris insisted significant progress had been made. He is expected to appear before the House of Lords this week to provide further details on what the plans are for the so-called green lane to allow some goods to enter Northern Ireland from Britain with minimal checks. Matthew O'Toole However, SDLP MLA Matthew OToole said: The longer the DUP boycotts government, making life miserable and worse for everyone who lives here, the more people, including the constitutionally agnostic or unaligned, will ask whether the seismic shift we need is toward a new Ireland. Fears remain over a potential split in the DUP should Jeffrey Donaldson try to bring it back to Stormont without agreement. The party cast aside Mr Poots as leader when he nominated a first minister to Stormont in 2021, making him the shortest-serving DUP chief. Alliance MLA Peter McReynolds, who has not yet been able to take his seat in the Assembly, said the DUP must come clean and tell people exactly what it is it wants to get back into government. Peter McReynolds He said: Mr Poots spoke of needing something seismic to change the DUP stance, and I sat open-mouthed listening to it. All around Northern Ireland I see seismic things happening because of the lack of government. To me, the fact were facing more strike action in the next few weeks is seismic... the pressure on hospital waiting lists is seismic. Over the weekend I spoke with a school principal in east Belfast who will not be able to provide hot water or hot meals for pupils. Thats due to the pressures on the budget; that is seismic. How much more seismic does Mr Poots want? I call on the DUP to lay out their wants so we can all see exactly where they stand and where their priorities lie. On This Day In History - September 18th I know the priorities with so many others lie in providing the basic essentials 365 days a year, seven days a week. And that can be provided through a stable government. There has not been devolution since February 2022 when Paul Givan resigned as DUP First Minister in protest at the Irish Sea border created by the post-Brexit protocol. The DUP says the Windsor Framework, a deal struck by the EU and UK to reform the protocol, does not go far enough. Nigel Dodds, a former DUP deputy leader, previously said the framework utterly fails the partys seven tests to restore power-sharing. Ian Paisley MP also said it was unlikely there would be a resumption of the Assembly this year. I think everyone is working hard to try and address the issues around it, and I want to frame those comments on the basis that I am pro-devolution, he said. I think its good that people in Northern Ireland run Northern Irish affairs. But it will only happen if we address these fundamental concerns and get a devolution that works and is properly financed. Speaking in Dublin on Friday, Sinn Fein vice-president Michelle ONeill reiterated her call for Stormont to be restored and said patience is now running out. Meanwhile, party president Mary Lou McDonald said the game-playing of the DUP needed to stop. Common sense must prevail, she added. Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris and NIO minister Steve Baker have been negotiating with the DUP around the Windsor Framework. Downing Street has denied the British government has received legal advice suggesting that meeting the DUPs demands around the Windsor Framework would require fundamentally changing the deal and cannot be done in domestic law. The British government has been holding meetings with the DUP on a regular basis as it tries to navigate a way to meet the partys seven key tests, which leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson says must be reached before the DUP will return to Stormont. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has offered a personal apology to former chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan, who has written in a new memoir of hurt caused to his family. Dr Holohan said his wife had particularly been upset by remarks made by then Tanaiste Mr Varadkar on Claire Byrne Live when he said members of Nphet (the National Public Health Emergency Team) would never have to go on furlough like workers affected by lockdowns while suggesting some members had usurped the role of Government. Writing in his memoir We Need To Talk, which is released this week, Dr Holohan said his wife Emer interpreted the comments as being personalised against her husband and was very upset. She was terminally ill at the time and has since died. I acknowledge, and I think I did before, that I went too far in my remarks in that particular interview, almost three years ago now, the Taoiseach said. 'The Garden became a really important place' Dr. Tony Holohan on his late wife's love for nature I was very angry at the time at the way the advice from Nphet had changed very dramatically overnight. The Government wasn't consulted on that. It was briefed to media before the Government was informed, which left a lot of us [in Government] very frustrated, Mr Varadkar said in New York. But it wasn't right of me to make personalised criticisms about members and to question their motivations and their understanding as to how decisions impact on people. That wasn't fair, and I'm certainly sorry for that and regret it. The Sunday Independent carried exclusive extracts from Dr Holohans book at the weekend. In the eagerly awaited publication, he recounts how his late wife was left devastated, inconsolable and with a feeling of betrayal after watching Mr Varadkar criticise Nphet members on Claire Byrne Live on RTE One in early October 2020. In the interview, Varadkar was critical of Nphets decision to recommend a nationwide lockdown in response to rising case numbers at the time. He argued that, as public servants, they were not impacted by the consequences of such decisions. Dr Tony Holohan and Leo Varadkar. Photo: Gerry Mooney That wasnt fair or true, Holohan writes. We lived in the real world. We were impacted. Our families were impacted, financially and emotionally. Emer was slowly dying and would be cut off from all her friends and family in her last few months of life. He says Mr Varadkar did not apologise for the remarks, but later inquired as to his wifes well-being before going on to change his position on Nphets recommendation to implement a lockdown. Speaking in New York today, the Taoiseach also acknowledged serious Government mistakes during the pandemic, and said it was a mistake to lift lockdown for Christmas 2020. In relation to the first Christmas lockdown (in 2020) I think on reflection, both Nphet and the Government made the wrong call, said Mr Varadkar. Nphet proposed one form of reopening, which would have meant a lot of social interactions, and we in Government proposed a different reopening plan, which involved some hospitality and some private houses. In retrospect, there shouldn't have been any opening up at all, because of the Alpha variant (which aggressively appeared in Britain in late November). And that changed things fundamentally. But let's not forget the advice from Nphet at the time initially was that the Alpha variant was not an issue of concern. On Dr Holohans criticism of the lifting of lockdown for a meaningful Christmas, as politicians put it, Mr Varadkar said: I think everyone involved in that time should recognise that we got most things right and did a good job for the country. We are going to have a Covid inquiry. Ill look for the Terms of Reference to be brought to Government in the next few weeks. And I think that inquiry will be able to explore a lot of the different issues. Leo Varadkar addresses the United Nations Sustainable Development Forum today. Photo: AP It's not going to be about putting anyone in the dock. There won't be a witch hunt. But it will be about finding out what we did right and what we did wrong. I remember at the very start of the pandemic, Paul Reid of the HSE saying that we'd probably get about 70pc of things right, and maybe 30pc of things wrong. And that was inevitable, given that nobody had dealt with a pandemic of this nature before. And I think we did [get that ratio of right to wrong]. Bear in mind that in Ireland we had one of the lowest excess mortality rates in the world, much lower than many of our neighbours. And also our economy recovered and bounced back much more quickly. So I think, in the end, all of us involved in making those decisions, whether it was HSE, or Nphet or the Department of Health and the Government, we took the right ones most of the time. But nobody was always right. And we were slow on uptake with masks and some aspects of lockdown were probably not necessary. I think schools were closed for too long, particularly special schools. Im not sure it was necessary to suspend construction and homebuilding for so long. And a lot of that was driven by public health advice. So, you know, I'd hope everyone will be reflective about their role during that period. The Taoiseach said he hoped the inquiry would be established by the end of the year, and a panel of names for the chairperson would shortly be drawn up. It's remarkable how much of the work has been done already. There have been 20 or 30 different reviews done by different Government agencies or Departments to date, he said. They've been very discrete [standalone]. But a lot of the background work is done already. But I think fundamentally, it's about understanding what did happen during that difficult two or three-year period what we did right, what we did wrong, and what we can learn for future major public health emergencies, which will happen but I think will be different. He said the inquiry should also consider various effects of Covid, such as lengthy school closures and issues with other forms of health care. I think we're experiencing some of the longer-term impacts of the lockdowns and the closures, whether it was delayed health care, and all the problems that's causing now, the loss of a significant period of housing construction, children being away from school for so long, and the impact that had on their mental health, he said. I was always of the view at the time that we needed to take into account not just the short-term effects of restrictive measures like lockdowns, but also the long-term impact that might have on society. Snake Rescued after being found at Cave Hill in Belfast. Snake rescued after being found at Cave Hill in Belfast. A South American Boa has been discovered on a popular walking trail in Belfast. The snake was found by a couple visiting Cave Hill on Sunday evening before being rescued by a volunteer from Northern Ireland Exotic Sanctuary. Lindsey Adams rushed to the scene after being alerted to the incident and brought the reptile to safety. Thankfully the gentleman and his wife had already caught it and were able to hand it straight over to me, she recalled. "It was very distressed when it got here and it will take a few days to warm up. "It seems to be in great condition with no obvious injuries which doesnt suggest it has been dumped. "But we dont know much at this point. Snake found on Cave Hill walking trail in Belfast. Pic credit Cave Hill Community Facebook group. Ms Adams said the animal was located far away from Belfast Zoo leading her to believe it is very unlikely to have escaped from there. She believes it probably managed to get out of a nearby house. It is now in an incubated tank and we are getting it warmed up we will keep an eye for a couple of days and give the owner one month to come forward, Ms Adams said. "We wont judge, things happen and we understand that. She added: "We will make sure the snake is safe to return to the home and when we establish that, we will give it back. On This Day In History - September 18th If no one comes forward we will begin the rehoming process which can take a few months. Its unclear what sex the animal is, but Ms Adams suspects it is a female. "It is hard to tell and we want to let her rest for now, but Im fairly certain she is female, she explained. "She has been through too much. People forget that snakes are cold blooded and do not produce their own body heat. "On a cold and wet night like that, she wouldnt have lasted long outside. "If she was dumped, then it was a death sentence. Snake Rescued after being found at Cave Hill in Belfast. The rescuer reassured the public that no one was ever at risk as the snake is not venomous. "It seems to be a Boa from South America, Im not sure what species exactly at this point," Ms Adams explained. These are domesticated pets and wouldnt even be capable of hunting in the wild. "You are very, very unlikely to get a venomous snake in Northern Ireland because owners require a Dangerous Wild Animal licence which imposes very strict conditions. The chances would be one in a million. Recent cases of exotic animals being abandoned in NI have been due to the perceived price of caring for them amid the cost of living crisis. "In reality, the electric required to keep them warm doesnt cost that much, Ms Adams said. "Other reasons are that people buy them when they are cute babies not realising that they can grow into large animals in some cases seven foot long and then they get scared. "On some occasions, landlords find out about animals being in properties and want them out. The owner has been urged to contact one of the five volunteers at Northern Ireland Exotic Sanctuary in Belfast. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Tanaiste Micheal Martin and Environment Minister Eamon Ryan are attending a UN summit in New York on sustainable development goals Tanaiste Micheal Martin has suggested Ireland would soon recognise Palestine in support of a two-state solution in the Middle East. "In terms of the recognition of Palestine, and the Palestinian state, our view is that we favour it - but the timing of that and the impact of taking such a decision has to be weighed up, as it would have some impact on getting a resolution to the crisis, Mr Martin said from a UN summit in New York, which is also being attended by the Taoiseach and Green Party leader Eamon Ryan. Right now the Government is engaged with all parties to the conflict and to all those who are committed to trying to resolve this, Mr Martin said. "We will be engaged in over the next number of months." Asked if recognition would happen within the lifetime of this Government, Mr Martin said: "It well may very well. But that's a call we will make. We're doing some assessment in relation to that internally within the Department." Ahead of the summit, the Taoiseach said world leaders need to make up for lost time and strive to meet 2030 targets for sustainable development. Leo Varadkar will address a summit in New York on Monday on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The goals cover 17 interlinked areas for action agreed by world leaders in 2015. They are designed to increase global prosperity, tackle inequalities and protect the environment. Ahead of his visit to the US, Mr Varadkar said countries needed to redouble efforts to achieve the 2030 goals, with progress currently behind schedule. Tanaiste Micheal Martin, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Minister for the Environment Eamon Ryan are all travelling to New York (Liam McBurney/PA) My visit to the United Nations comes at a time of critical challenge for the world, he said. Ireland has been centrally involved in developing and implementing the Sustainable Development Goals which were adopted in 2015. Progress towards achieving them has been set back by the pandemic, the consequences of conflict, including in Ukraine, and by the increasing pace and ferocity of extreme weather events. I will be urging leaders to make maximum use of the time ahead to make up this lost ground, and to really focus on ensuring we reach the targets we have set ourselves by 2030. The worlds most vulnerable people in particular, are depending on us. Tanaiste Micheal Martin and Environment Minister and Green Party leader Eamon Ryan are also attending the UN in New York. On Tuesday Mr Varadkar will be at the opening of the UNs 78th General Assembly, at which he will have a number of meetings, formal and informal, with counterparts from around the world in the margins. He will deliver Irelands National Statement to the Assembly on Friday. He will also meet young Irish people involved in the tech sector; make an address to the Council on Foreign Relations on Irish foreign policy priorities; and attend a lunch for the Ireland Funds organisation. He will also visit the Irish Arts Centre, which is hosting an exhibition of work by artist Colin Davidson. I am also greatly looking forward to renewing contacts with the Irish community in New York, including young people working in tech, and board members of the Irish Funds who have done so much to promote peace and reconciliation in Ireland, he said. The Taoiseach will also travel to Miami, where he will officially open Irelands ninth consulate general in the US and meet representatives of the Irish community there. I am also pleased to have the opportunity to officially open Irelands new consulate general in Miami, our ninth in the United States, and a further signal of the Governments commitment to continuing to deepen our diplomatic presence in the Americas, he said. I remember the buzz in 2005 about this little indie drama, My Summer of Love, as the must-see arthouse flick of the season. I missed it back then, but the fanfare around that release made enough of an impression that I was excited when I saw Imprint was bringing the title to Blu-ray at long last. When I learned that the film was directed by Pawel Pawlikowski, who also made the astonishing Cold War and the Oscar-winning Ida, I was really excited. Maybe that build-up of hype in my head is why Im a little disappointed by My Summer of Love. Rather than an intimate romantic epic in the Cold War vein, My Summer of Love feels small like a well-observed short story. This is slightly ironic since the film is adapted from a well-received novel by Helen Cross, although reportedly Pawlikowski retained only certain core aspects of the book. Natalie Press stars as Mona, a working-class teenager whose only close relative is an older brother, Phil (Paddy Considine), who was just released from prison as a newly converted born-again Christian. While riding around on a second-hand motorbike with no engine, Mona meets Tamsin (Emily Blunt), a middle-class girl riding a white horse (metaphor!). Rather than cope with her brothers new evangelism, Mona accepts Tamsins offer to hang out at her familys massive country house. Tamsins mother is in a touring theatrical company and her father is shacked up with his secretary, so the two girls have the house basically to themselves. It doesnt take long for the star-crossed friends to become star-crossed lovers, and one of the most refreshing aspects of My Summer of Love is the matter-of-fact way it deals with the lesbian relationship at its center. Especially with the Christian brother lurking over in the B-plot, its a relief that the film doesnt bring sin or societal prejudice into this. The film acknowledges there are enough fraught things in these girls lives that would connect them and that they dont need further melodrama to heighten the stakes. The downside is that Pawlikowskis approach is so understated that it becomes a little hard to invest in the story, rather than just appreciate its naturalistic telling. All three leads feel tailor-made for their roles, and the direction never hits a false note. Still, I kept flashing to other stories of teenage coupling, especially Roy Anderssons similarly naturalistic A Swedish Love Story, which captures the fun and pain of relationships at this age more palpably. Dont get me wrong. This film is quite good and its curiosity about its characters' foibles is engaging. I just wish it was a little less fascinated and a bit more passionate. Vital Disc Stats: The Blu-ray My Summer of Love is housed in the thicker style of keepcase found in a lot of international releases. The first 1500 copies come with a cardboard slipcover that approximates the US poster, while the inner jacket art riffs on the European poster design. The disc loads to a few skippable disclaimers and logos before landing on a still menu with music. The disc is Region Free. Historical Society auditor Aine Kennedy and fellow Hist members Katy Harrington and Tom Francis, looking at old photos in Trinity's Old Library. Photo: Trinity College Dublin Trinity College Dublins Historical Society, often referred to as The Hist, has officially been recognised by Guinness World Records as the worlds oldest student society. The 253-year-old debating society took two years to prove its longevity. To achieve the World Record recognition, photographic evidence had to be provided, as well as proof it had been in operation without interruption since its establishment. Founded on March 21, 1770, the debating society was set up to pursue speeching, reading, writing and arguing, in Morality, History, Criticism, Politics, and all the useful branches of philosophy. The society said that hunting down the evidence was difficult, also stating that they had a troubled relationship with the College authorities, particularly when it was led by Theobald Wolfe Tone and Robert Emmet. The Hist was expelled twice by the College Board, however, there was unambiguous evidence that the Society continued to exist and meet during that period. Other former members of the society include writers Bram Stoker, Oscar Wilde, and Samuel Beckett, Sally Rooney, and first President of Ireland Douglas Hyde. Former Tanaiste Mary Harney was the first female auditor of the society. The society precedes the foundations of both the Cambridge (1815) and Oxford (1823) unions, both of which were modelled after it. Aine Kennedy, Hist auditor, said: We are thrilled at this official recognition of our Society as a seminal institution in student intellectual debate, organisation, and action. The Hist continues to devote itself to learning lessons from the past and discussing the most pressing issues of our day. This achievement demonstrates a remarkable tradition of encouraging student voices, radical discourse, and oratorical excellence. For over two and a half centuries, the Hist has continued to cultivate these ideals. I want to acknowledge the time and effort invested by previous auditors into proving our case as the worlds oldest student society and thank our alumni for their unwavering support. Independent, expert witness statements in confirming the Hists credentials were made by renowned historians Professor Roy Foster of Oxford University and Professor Marianne Elliott of Liverpool University. Nick Adams, of Guinness World Records, said: "On review of the expansive evidence submitted, and with the corroborating expert witness statements from historians Profs. Roy Foster and Marianne Elliott, Guinness World Records is pleased to recognise the College Historical Society of Trinity College Dublin as the oldest student society." The oldest student society at Trinity was verified on July 19, 2022. The society boasts a rich history of debating success, both within Ireland and abroad, and a long list of internationally well-known guests and alumni to the society, said Guinness World Records. The Hist is set to officially receive its Guinness World Records certificate at a celebratory dinner on October 20, 2023. Comment Many law-abiding citizens are questioning the value of the licence fee until they see full transparency in RTE. Above, executives at Leinster House in June. Photo: Gareth Chaney/Collins In 2011, during the Arab Spring revolution in Tunisia, a group of student activists involved in the revolution had first-hand experience of media extensively controlled by government and the destructive prevalence of extremist content on social media platforms, in particular Facebook. Ninety-seven per cent of the adult population in Tunisia relied on Facebook as their primary source of news and information. These experiences led the students to further question the influence and challenges posed by media and in particular, the influence of social media as a source of news in their society. Young graduates from Cork mark a significant milestone in their lives. Denis Leamy, chief executive Cork ETB; Amy OConnor, Cork senior camogie captain and John Fitzgibbons, director of Further Education & Training Cork ETB with Youthreach Graduates and their tutors. YOUNG people from across Cork have celebrated a significant milestone in their lives and can now look forward to pursuing new careers after graduating from Youthreach courses. The students, who completed their studies under the umbrella of the Cork Education and Training Board (CETB) initiative were presented with their Level 3 and 4 Qualification and Quality Ireland (QQI) awards during a graduation ceremony last Friday at the Clayton Silver Springs Hotel. Among the graduates was Hafiz Ullah who left his native Afghanistan at the 15 in 2020 and made the perilous journey across Iraq and into Europe, travelling through Turkey, Greece and Macedonia before arriving in Cork. Having completed his qualifications in Learning Support Services, Hafiz will now move to study information technology at the Cork College of FET Tramore Road Campus. Mallow Youthreach graduate Olivia OSullivan, who is going on to study computer science at the Cork College FET Douglas Street campus said he qualification will open up new career avenues for her. Mallow Youthreach has given me a great opportunity to thrive and opened up new, wider opportunities to college, said Olivia. Martin Cizevskis really enjoyed his time at the Dean Street Youthreach Centre in Cork City and plans to follow his dream of studying art. Cian Boland, who received a QQI level 4 award had very little educational background before joining the Youthreach programme at the Glen in Cork City, After thriving during the two-year course, he is currently working in the construction industry and is due to begin his Apprenticeship in December. A highlight of the graduation ceremony was an inspiring keynote address by Cork All-Ireland winning camogie captain and GAA All-Star Amy OConnor, who gave an inspiring speech about how her parents had emphasised the important role that education plays in helping to achieve life and career goals. John Fitzgibbons, director of FET with the Cork Education and Training Board said the young graduates had been on transformative journey over the past few years with the majority of them now progressing to full time education or employment. The graduation ceremony was a testament to the hard work, dedication, and resilience of the graduating class of 2023, who had completed part of their studies online during the Covid 19 lockdowns, said Mr Fitzgibbons. Yesterday is in the past and tomorrow is their future. They have the power to determine what happens if they believe in themselves, he added. Cork ETB chief executive Denis Leamy congratulated the graduates on their accomplishments and expressed appreciation for the huge support given to them by Cork ETB staff. As the graduates embark on the next phase of their journey, Cork ETB remains committed to providing ongoing support and resources to ensure the continued success our 12 Youthreach centres in providing educational opportunities for young people who are outside of mainstream education, said Mr Leamy. Dublin designer Elizabeth Barnardo talks about sustainability, the buzz of working with celebrity clients and running the oldest family furrier in the world Elizabeth Barnardo says the clothes they create last a lifetime. Pic: Steve Humphreys Elizabeth Barnardo at the Grafton Street Store, which has been in business since 1812. Pic: Steve Humphreys Elizabeth Barnardo prides herself with giving time to all her customers but if Beyonces on the phone, you need to be ready with an answer. The superstar is just one of the many clients of J.M. Barnardo and Sons furriers, based on Dublins Grafton Street. Elizabeth is the fifth-generation owner of the business that opened in 1812 and the shop holds the title of oldest family furrier in the world. On This Day In History - September 18th She believes the key to our success is moving with the times, but remembering the stories and appreciating her ancestors is just as important. Upon entering the five-storey building, Harry, the sixth generation of the shop, greets customers. The shop is filled with strong and sturdy mahogany furniture, rails of coats and presses full of buttons for customers to see. The upper floors are where the magic happens, with sewing machines, design sketches and clothing to be cleaned or repaired so they can last a lifetime. My ancestor came from Italy, via Germany, and arrived in Killybegs. He fell in love with a lady there, Elizabeth said. He then set up a business beside Dublin Castle. It was a time before cars, so he was selling fur blankets for carriages and all of that. He had 14 children with the woman from Killybegs, before she passed away during childbirth. Elizabeth Barnardo at the Grafton Street Store, which has been in business since 1812. Pic: Steve Humphreys Her sister came to help with the kids, and as it wasnt the done thing to be living with an unmarried woman, they married and had 12 children together. The Barnardo family arent just known for their couture fashion, a great-great uncle of Elizabeth set up the well-known childrens charity in the 1800s. Dr Barnardo was the second child from the second marriage. Theres a plaque beside Dublin Castle where the first shop was located, Elizabeth explained. Dr Barnardo asked his dad if he could become a doctor, but he couldnt go to the College of Surgeons here because his father was in the trade. They only took sons of white-collar workers. He got into the College of Surgeons in London and ended up becoming friends with Lord Shaftesburys son. They discovered that there was so much hunger and so many kids were starving, he decided to stay and help there. There was one child with red hair that they nicknamed Carrots, a week later they went to feed the kids again and Carrots was found dead. Lord Shaftesbury gave Doctor Barnardo money to set up homes for children. The clothes were originally manufactured in Dame Street, then, in 1929, my grandad lost all of his money due to the crash in America. We were brought to this building and weve been here ever since. In the 211 years of business, weve just had three buildings. We have all this mahogany my grandad and father appreciated, so we still have it today. We work in these beautiful surroundings, its all hand carved. Today, J.M. Barnardo offers a wide range of services from cleaning and restoration, to storage and alterations. The girls married out, my grandfather was left running the company. He married the shop girl, they got married late in life, so my dad was an only child. Dad was born in 1923, he got cancer when I was two years old so Im an only child. Ive two kids, Lizzie and Harry. Harry loves the business. My daughter is doing design at Parsons in New York. Shes now 21. When she was 14, she had her first piece in Harrods. We design for Harrods. The key to our success is moving with the times. My mum and myself, we believe our craftsmen are the key to our success, weve generations of customers coming back. Granddaughters come in saying it was their grannys favourite shop, theyve lovely memories. I love the loyalty and people coming back. Theres no wild fur, we dont deal with anything like leopard. Through the years, weve always maintained the production of garments using only farmed skins. We dont sell any furs that require CITES paperwork [an international agreement to prevent trade of threatened species]. Weve a lot of international customers, being Irish around the world is a super thing. We work for a few different designers under their own label. One of the designers works solely for Beyonce, so Ive to be on the phone in case Beyonce needs an answer straight away. It gives a great buzz to work for a star. Elizabeth Barnardo says the clothes they create last a lifetime. Pic: Steve Humphreys Today, sustainability is something Elizabeth focuses on, not only to benefit the world, but to benefit the pockets of her customers. Once a garment is over 35 years old, youve to put the last blast of fun into it. When its about 15 to 20 years old, it needs a full remodel, new shape, new linings. We can make old coats that are decades old into blankets. The older coats are heavy, I dont buy them back, but I can offer to make them something new with the material. We have to look to craftsmanship, because the use per wear of our garments lasts. If you buy one of our coats for 2,000, itll last 30 years and its very little when you divide it by that many years. But if you were buying one coat for 50, its expensive if you just get one season out of it. Itll be put into a landfill but if youre finished with one of our coats, its completely biodegradable, its not doing environmental damage. We dont do mass production. With the sustainability of fur, you can pass it on and have generations of use rather than buying a coat every year, you can own this for decades, she added. Architecture Kerry rolling out free guided tours, lectures, exhibitions and more from September 22 Dozens of free guided tours, exhibitions, and lectures form part of the programme for the 2023 Architecture Kerry Festival which takes place between 22nd September and 1st October. Pictured at the launch are James Sugrue, Sugrue Design, Cllr. Jim Finucance, Mayor of Kerry, Victoria McCarthy, Architectural Conservation Officer, Kerry County Council, Suzanne Keane, Sugrue Design and Martin O' Donoghue, Director of Housing, Kerry County Council. Full list of events at architecture.kerrycoco.ie. Photo: Pauline Dennigan Dozens of free guided tours, exhibitions, and lectures form part of the programme for the 2023 Architecture Kerry Festival which takes place between 22nd September and 1st October. Pictured at the launch are Suzanne Keane, Sugrue Design, Victoria McCarthy, Architectural Conservation Officer, Kerry County Council and James Sugrue, Sugrue Design. Full list of events at architecture.kerrycoco.ie. Photo: Pauline Dennigan Dozens of free guided tours, exhibitions, and lectures form part of the programme for the 2023 Architecture Kerry Festival which takes place between 22nd September and 1st October. Pictured at the launch are Cllr. Jim Finucance, Mayor of Kerry, Victoria McCarthy, Architectural Conservation Officer, Kerry County Council, Suzanne Keane, Sugrue Design, Martin O' Donoghue, Director of Housing, Kerry County Council and James Sugrue, Sugrue Design. Full list of events at architecture.kerrycoco.ie. Photo: Pauline Dennigan Our annual celebration of our built heritage, Architecture Kerry, is back this year and better than ever with plenty of free guided tours, talks, exhibitions and much more. The festival, which kicks off September 22, is all about showcasing the architectural beauty of Kerry and also make the architectural landscape of Kerry readily available to all. There is something for everyone on offer as tours, exhibitions and lectures will all take place over the week of festivities. A presentation of projects from all over Kerry, called Where an Inch is a Mile, will take place on September 28, presented by the Architectural Association of Ireland and Architecture Kerry. There will also be an exhibition, Burning the Big House, hosted by the Kerry Writers Museum on the evening of September 29. Kerry Local Creative Youth Partnership (LCYP), meanwhile announced a new exhibition to the festival this year, Construct Fun!. The exhibition will feature models built by children living under protection in the Johnson Marina Hotel in Tralee, that have been constructed by child-friendly methods and materials. Construct Fun! allows children to experience architectural connections to Kerry in a fun, colourful and light-hearted manner. Children have an urge to create and are naturally inquisitive. Given some guidance, they have built these vibrant structures. The children have created new worlds to find solitude, explore, build friendships and play, said artist and facilitator, David Fortune. Talking about the festivals success in previous years and what this year has to offer, Kerry County Councils Architectural Conservation Officer, Victoria McCarthy said: There has been fantastic engagement with the programme of events over the years and again this year, there a varied selection of events for all ages and interests. As in previous years, we have a range of free guided tours of renovated buildings, lighthouses, castles, country houses, walking tours, town centre adaptation projects and much more. Tralee Tidy Towns was to the fore of a national conference in Athlone this week helping to deliver a coherent national plan to improve the States biodiversity. Tralee Tidy Towns members were present at the Biodiversity in Action conference alongside members of both Tralee Rowing Club and Kenmare Tidy Towns, at an event hosted by Community Foundation Ireland. Over the course of the day, they heard details of a vast range of initiatives and plans to protect and develop our precious biosphere from the micro-world of the insectae to plant life. The conference came on the back of the first four years of biodiversity-dedicated funding streams from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. And it hosted presentations from a range of experts on topics including: details of the launch of the National Biodiversity Data Centres new digital hub for local biodiversity groups throughout the country an update from the Government on their plans and upcoming legislation in relation to biodiversity an overview of biodiversity planning and implementation at a community level from an experienced ecologist an update from Tidy Towns on what they are looking for in this area presentations of some Biodiversity Action Plans that have been funded under this scheme, hearing about the successes and also about the challenges that were encountered along the way a consideration of the findings of the Citizens Assembly on Biodiversity Tralee Tidy Towns member and Chair of the Kerry branch of the Irish Wildlife Trust Ger Scollard said the day was a perfect call to action for everyone in Tralee anxious to play their part in encouraging greater plant and insect diversity in the area: This is an opportunity for anyone in the Tralee area with an interest in taking action for Biodiversity along the Greenway to get involved and we urge all those whod like to have an input in the planning and implementation of biodiversity actions along the Greenway to attend. Details were also revealed of a newly-launched web site set to help groups everwhere develop local Biodiversity Action Plans. This new website www.actionforbiodiversity.ie will act as a library of all the local Biodiversity Action Plans being produced across the country, as well as offering lots of resources on how to create a community biodiversity plan and the variety of biodiversity actions communities can take. The aim is for this website to be a one-stop-shop for communities interested in developing their own Biodiversity Action Plan, delegates heard. The three Kerry groups were present as each are currently in the process of developing Community Biodiversity Action Plans (CBAP) funded by the CFI. A workshop brainstorm brought the day to a great conclusion. Tralee Tidy Towns revealed meanwhile how it has received funding for a CBAP for the Tralee-to-Fenit Greenway supported by Kerry County Council. A survey of the biodiversity has already taken place and one of a series of community engagement opportunities has been held at Fenit, with the next one scheduled for The Rose Hotel, Tralee on Monday, October 9, from 7.30-8.30pm. All are invited to register their interest by sending an email to: tidytownstralee@gmail.com. One of Kerrys most-legendary figures, Peig Sayers, is set for a new lease of life, and she can thank Brexit for the opportunity. Well, sort of. Locals and tourists alike will be familiar with the boat bearing her name, especially if theyve boarded it on the way to the Blasket Islands or to see Fungie, Irelands most-famous dolphin. The vessel, owned by Billy OConnor, has served him and his passengers well, but after two decades in use, part of its story is still to be told. The Bord Iaschaigh Mhara-implemented Brexit Blue Economy Enterprise Scheme has granted 65,000, which will be used to fit new engines in the boat, a job which will be carried out by the end of September. Billy is understandably thrilled at the opportunity to replenish a boat that carries passengers to Irelands most-famous island as part of his Great Blasket Island Experience operation, which runs its tours between April and October. The Peig Sayers has been such a loyal servant to us, he said of the news. She is not only a ferry, but she is a vital lifeline for the island, transporting goods from the mainland during the summer and winter months. She is a rubbish boat, a supply boat, and a maintenance boat. And when she breaks down, everything stops, he added. Sadly, such breakdowns have become more frequent as time has gone by, disrupting Billys business. The new engines will make the ferry more reliable. And ultimately it will have a positive impact on the business, he said in thanking BIM. The boat is licensed to carry 12 passengers, but outside of the tourism season, its also used to travel out to help manage the large number of sheep at the location. Billys grandfather and granduncle started the ferry business and commissioned the building of the Peig Sayers in 201, with Billy taking over the operation in 2014. Then and now: Michael OConnor pictured on a boat that brought Ulrich to the Great Blasket Island back in 1984 while right, Micheal pictured in the summer of 2023 with his dog. Photo by Ulrich Ahrensmeier. Then ans now: Barry and Kevin OShea pictured with James Murphy back in 1996 when they were offering 50p tours of a castle on Valentia Island. Right: the trio are still best friends and have not lost their entreprenurial spirit. James is the co-founder of Portmagee Whiskey while Kevin and Barry run a tiliing company. Photo by Ulrich Ahrensmeier. Garda Jerry Cronin pictured left at Lower Castle Street/Corner of Ashe Street on one of German photographer's Ulrich Ahrensmeier's many visits to Kerry from the 1970's to the 1990's and on on the right, a photo of Jerry that was taken by Ulrich in the same spot in 2023. Photo by Ulrich Ahrensmeier. Padraig Moriarty then and now: on the left, Padraig Moriarty pictured in the village shop in Cloghane back in 1995 and right, Padraig in 2023. Photo by Ulrich Ahrensmeier. Padraig Moriarty in the room which used to be the village shop and post office, now his parent's living room, 2023. Then and now: Mick Sheehan pictured left on the Great Blasket Island back in the 1990's and right, Mick pictured in the summer of 2023. Photo by Ulrich Ahrensmeier. A German photographer, Ulrich Ahrensmeier, who visited Kerry many times from the 1970s onwards right up to the 1990s, taking photos of locals while on his travels around the county, has this past summer successfully re-visited and re-photographed many of those Kerry locals whom he first took photos of back in the 80s and 90s...and the results are amazing. Ulrich, from Garbsen in Lower Saxony, first came to Ireland 50 years ago back in 1973 when he had just started work as an apprentice photographer where he would take the odd holiday photo. This would be the first of many trips to Ireland for Ulrich and by the end of the 1980s, he found himself commissioned by a Swiss publishing house to tour Ireland to take photos for a travel guide. This was to be the beginning of an archive of thousands of photos which would go on to be published in newspapers, magazines, ads, on CD covers etc. On This Day In History - September 18th Fast forward to January of 2020 to when Ulrich first began to think about his Ireland Revisited project, one through which he aimed to re-shoot the people and places that he had taken pictures of during his first visit in 1973 to others taken in the nineties. One global pandemic and a lot of research later, Ulrich was over the course of a few weeks this summer finally able to complete the Kerry aspect of the project, tracking down in the process many of those he had first photographed here back in the early to mid 1990s. Padraig Moriarty then and now: on the left, Padraig Moriarty pictured in the village shop in Cloghane back in 1995 and right, Padraig in 2023. Photo by Ulrich Ahrensmeier. After putting out a call in June of this year for those who he had photographed to get in touch, Ulrich said the response he received was phenomenal. One such person that got in touch was now retired Garda Jerry Cronin, whom Ulrich photographed back in the mid 1990s he said he cannot be sure sure of the exact year while Garda Cronin was on the beat at a spot at Lower Castle Street/at the corner of Ashe Street in Tralee town centre. Amazingly, Garda Cronins daughter Eilis is now a proud member of An Garda Siochana herself and, in a special moment, she proudly stood alongside her dad in the same spot where he posed all those years ago. Jerry and Eilis both spoke to The Kerryman recently about the photo, which Jerry said he had completely forgotten about altogether. Garda Jerry Cronin pictured left at Lower Castle Street/Corner of Ashe Street on one of German photographer's Ulrich Ahrensmeier's many visits to Kerry from the 1970's to the 1990's and on on the right, a photo of Jerry that was taken by Ulrich in the same spot in 2023. Photo by Ulrich Ahrensmeier. It was a huge surprise and it brought back many happy memories of my time stationed in Tralee. I was stationed here [in Tralee] from 1978 to when I retired in 1997. It [Ulrich taking his picture that day] was gone out of my memory completely, Ive no recollection whatsoever but I was amazed that he knew exactly the spot or the point where the picture was taken, he said. It was a privilege and an honour that he contacted me and took the time to find me again, he said. Former Garda Officer Jerry Cronin and his daughter Eilis. Photo by Ulrich Ahrensmeier. On seeing her dads photo from now close to 30 years ago, Eilis joked that "hes lost a few pounds since and that hes looking better now than he did back then, she laughed, to which Jerry quipped that hes only in his 50s. "It was lovely for him to see that picture and then for me to be able to stand next to him in the same spot and to be myself now a member of An Garda Siochana after he did 37-and-a-half years in the service, it was special, she added. Speaking to The Kerryman after meeting Jerry again, Ulrich said that the pair chatted about many things such as Jerrys growing up on a small family farm in Macroom before he joined the Gardai in 1960. We talked about the immense changes which took place in Ireland and the police force. There are for example many more female Gardai now, than the four of them when Jerry first joined in 1960. He [Jerry] said that there was more respect towards the Gardai then and that you wouldnt dare raise a middle finger towards a police person, said Ulrich, adding that the training system to become a Garda has become much more modernised. Ulrich relayed that Jerry said Eilis loved to visit him at the station when she was younger. As to whether he encouraged his daughter to become a Garda? Heres what Jerry had to say: I would like you to do something else, but if this is what you want to do, do it! he laughed. Others who Ulrich was able to re-connect with included Padraig Moriarty whom Ulrich had first photographed back inside the village shop in Cloghane in 1995 as well as sailor and fisherman Micheal OConnor who Ulrich met and photographed back in 1996. Then ans now: Barry and Kevin OShea pictured with James Murphy back in 1996 when they were offering 50p tours of a castle on Valentia Island. Right: the trio are still best friends and have not lost their entreprenurial spirit. James is the co-founder of Portmagee Whiskey while Kevin and Barry run a tiliing company. Photo by Ulrich Ahrensmeier. As a ferry man in Dun Chaoin, Micheal brought me into the Great Blasket Island back in 1984 where, equipped with a rucksack full of canned food and a small tent, I stayed for a week. When we met again, his current boat, The North Star was moored in Dingle Harbour and its from there he takes anglers on fishing trips, said Ulrich, speaking about his reunion with Micheal. Michael invited me to take a little spin out into the harbour and when the waves were getting a little bit rough for a townie like me, I was grabbing my camera a bit tighter. Micheal showed no concern though as he looked up to the old lighthouse that holds the mural of Fungie, turned the boat and went back to the pier. He looks very satisfied with his life now well into retirement, Ulrich added. As for Padraig Moriarty whom Ulrich photographed as a teenager in his parents village shop in Cloghane, he came all the way from Shannon Airport to re-unite with. The shop sadly has long closed and so it is the parents living room where Ulrich took the updated picture of Padraig in exactly that corner where the post office counter used to be. Then and now: Michael OConnor pictured on a boat that brought Ulrich to the Great Blasket Island back in 1984 while right, Micheal pictured in the summer of 2023 with his dog. Photo by Ulrich Ahrensmeier. He, like all the others who were photographed, said he cannot remember being pictured by a German photographer in the mid-nineties. Padraig is now an Air Traffic Controller at Shannon Airport and lives near Limerick, coming home regularly to his native Cloghane to see his parents and close relatives. Finally, to the trio of young tour guides that he photographed in 1996 who were offering a tour of the ruins for 50 pence, Ulrich was able to reconnect with all three as well and was delighted to find that their entrepreneurial spirit had not been dimmed over the years. After the original photo was published in The Kerryman back in June, Ulrich said that James Murphy, who in the old picture is shown in the middle, responded quickly, assuring that he would bring together the others too. He told me that the other two in the picture were his cousins Barry and Kevin OShea and still are his best friends. Still very entrepreneurial, the three of them are running their own businesses. James is the co-founder of Portmagee Whiskey while Kevin and Barry are running a tiling company. Full of positive spirit they all not only love their jobs, but also their native area around Portmagee. To my immense surprise they automatically sat down in the same order as they did all those years ago, said Ulrich. Cllr Michael OShea says Healy-Raes should have been in Government to prevent LNG opposition. Fianna Fail Councillor Michael OShea slammed Dail deputies Danny and Michael Healy-Rae for not doing enough to protect the interests of North Kerry following An Bord Pleanalas decision to refuse permission for Shannon LNG. Abject disappointment at the decision was expressed by councillors during Mondays full meeting of Kerry County Council (KCC), especially criticism of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael for not standing up to Green Party Leader Eamon Ryan in his opposition to LNG. However, Cllr OShea took umbrage with the Healy-Raes and their fellow colleagues in the Rural Independent Group for lacking the necessary vision during pre-coalition talks when entering Government would have meant protecting rural projects like Shannon LNG. Cllr OShea said of the Rural Independent Group that when you pay peanuts you get monkeys, which caused a heated debate with Cllr Maura Healy-Rae. Cllr OShea accused the Healy-Raes of sharing blame on Fianna Fail, Fine Gael, and the Green Party, but they [Rural Group] had a duty as an elected group to be in Government and shape policy. They had a responsibility to be in there and to represent rural Ireland to the best of their ability and to deliver stability, growth, and development to depressed economic regions across this country...but when you pay peanuts you get monkeys. You can put that on the record, Cllr OShea told the council chamber. Following An Bord Pleanalas decision last Friday, Deputy Michael Healy-Rae said Government had left the North Kerry region in a state of devastation over the Shannon LNG rejection. He accused Minister Eamon Ryan of making no secret of his opposition to LNG that has ensured a bleak outcome for North Kerry. But Id imagine he wont mind too much as he pushes on with his make it up as you go policies on offshore wind energy farms, which will take years before they come on stream, Deputy Healy-Rae said. Tensions rise after Kerry councillor asks that refugees make payment towards supported accommodation Independent Councillor Martin Grady wants Ukrainian refugees in Kerry to pay a service charge towards their accommodation. It's estimated that 2,700 Ukrainians are in full-time employment in the county. The Killarney-based official made the request at Mondays full meeting of Kerry County Council (KCC) where the motion sparked tension among councillors who felt it was too broad and did not consider the refugees unable to pay. Cllr Grady acknowledged the great work and how generous KCC is in accommodating refugees and asylum-seekers. He explained that around 15,000 Ukrainian refugees, nationally, are now in employment, while those not in employment are entitled to the full welfare rate of 220 per week. He said Ireland is one of only three EU countries to provide full social welfare payments to Ukrainians unlike asylum-seekers in Direct Provision who only receive 39 per week. Its unjustified to have anyone earning a full-time wage without having to contribute in any way towards their accommodation, or utility bills which are at an all-time high, he said. Cllr Grady revealed that he is aware of refugees whose earnings are over the income threshold required for social housing. He added that homeless people in Kerry are being asked to pay a service charge towards their welfare entitlements. It cost 1.3 billion last year and is expected to cost over 2 billion this year to accommodate and provide social benefits for refugees. Im not suggesting we take a roof from over anyones head here. But I am asking for Minister Roderic O'Gorman to review that current system and deliver equality, Cllr Grady said. Sinn Fein Cllr Cathal Foley took exception with the motion, saying he didnt know where to start with the proposal. He referenced Cllr Gradys recent political visit to the US. Maybe in the interests of solidarity Cllr Grady might pay a service charge towards his recent trip to the US, which was paid for by rate payers and property tax payers of this county. This was only last week. I presume, in solitary with his motion, he will be making a contribution towards his trip, Cllr Foley said. Independent Cllr John ODonoghue said he had a problem with the motion as it sends out the wrong messages about KCC. Cllr ODonoghue stressed that refugees living here are not enjoying the bed of roses some portray it as. Its [motion] too all-encompassing. I would have no problem if the motion could be amended to see if people could be means tested. A refugee is obviously someone who is fleeing their own country because of persecution...if we were to pass this motion it would send out the wrong message that refugees are not welcome in the county, he said. Independent Cllr Maura Healy-Rae agreed with means testing but felt Cllr Gradys motion was too broad. Fine Gael Mayor of Kerry Jim Finucane said many Ukrainians in the county are trying hard to have their professional qualifications (doctors and teachers) recognised so they can contribute to Kerry society. I agree with the councillors that this motion is too broad. It would send out the wrong message, the Mayor said. Cllr Grady asked that the council not forget our own homeless and to understand the depth of feeling among people who are working but not entitled to the same gratuity around the criteria for certain welfare services. Cllr Grady agreed to have his motion amended to assert that a refugees income would be means tested towards making a contribution towards their supported accommodation. Kerala, a state in southern India, is dealing with its fourth deadly outbreak of the Nipah virus since 2018. So far, two people, a 49-year-old and a 40-year-old, have died. As reported by NPR, Malaysian pig farmers were the first known people to become sick from Nipah in 1999. At that time, the virus was not transmissible between humans. However, the newer strain of Nipah is more deadly, says Dr. Thekkumkara Surendran Anish, an associate professor of community medicine at the Government Medical College in Manjeri, Kerala. "There is virological evidence that the strain we're encountering in Kerala is the Bangladeshi strain," Anish told NPR. This has a high fatality rate of 75% and causes acute respiratory distress, with the higher possibility of human-to-human transmission, he adds. Symptoms include fever, headache, vomiting, seizures, coma, difficulty breathing, and brain swelling. According to the CDC, "Long-term side effects in survivors of Nipah virus infection have been noted, including persistent convulsions and personality changes. Infections that lead to symptoms and sometimes death much later after exposure (known as dormant or latent infections) have also been reported months and even years after exposure." There is no vaccine for this virus. Bats are the primary means of transmission to humans. From The Guardian: Marty Whelan kicks off the Dip in the Nip for NECRET with hundreds of brave swimmers Fun and frolics at the City North Hotel before the annual Dip in the Nip. MC Marty Whelan with some Nuns on the Run at the Dip in the Nip! It was a lot warmer at the City North Hotel for the swimmers prior to the annual north east Dip in the Nip. Fun and frolics at the City North Hotel before the annual Dip in the Nip. The annual north east Dip in the Nip has so far raised 50,000 for NECRET. Some locals ladies brave the elements for the annual North East Dip in the Nip. All photos: Suzanne Collins In an awe-inspiring display of courage and camaraderie, hundreds of fearless women from across the nation rallied together before dawn on Sunday, September 10, for the 12th annual Northeast Dip in the Nip fundraiser. The event, dedicated to supporting the Northeast Oncology & Haematology Unit in Drogheda, has broken records by already raising an astounding 50,000, with donations still pouring in, in the hopes of surpassing last year's remarkable 67,000. Marty Whelan, the renowned RTE celebrity, graciously donated his time to MC the event, emotionally connecting with the participants and capturing the essence of this extraordinary day. As dawn broke, the air was filled with anticipation at the City North Hotel, where women from diverse backgrounds, spanning ages 18 to 80, converged. Mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends came together for a shared cause, demonstrating their unwavering support for cancer patients. This unique fundraiser is not just about charity; it's about celebration and creativity. Participants embraced themed ideas, resulting in stunning displays of unity and artistry. The Dippers Delight group, led by June Morgan, donned exquisite afternoon tea party hats, masterfully crafted by Maureen. The Weather Girls, led by Aoife McCullough, wore body-painted weather signs, while the Dipping Divas were enchanted with adorable love heart cut-out boards. Other groups like the poster girls showcased their creativity with tiny sliver hats spooky witches' gear and face paint. The day commenced at the City North Hotel with warm beverages and complimentary Dutch Courage, followed by a Zumba dancing warm-up led by the talented "Aine Uninfluenced." Soon after, the ladies boarded Matthews Buses for a secret journey to the beach. Upon reaching the beach, they gathered around a wishing tree, sharing heartfelt notes for their loved ones. It was a powerful moment of laughter and tears, demonstrating the incredible bravery of these women. Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for Marty Whelan's countdown. With Marty's voice echoing "5, 4, 3, 2, 1, Go girls, go!" the women dashed into the freezing Irish sea, some dipping, some swimming. The beach resonated with excitement and triumph as they shouted, "We did it, we did it!" After the chilly dip, they were treated to a breakfast, courtesy of Barry and Oonagh McHugh. Live music from the very talented Hannah Kinsella and sweet treats from butterflies parties all served under a fabulous balloon arch from LL Balloons. The event was made possible through the generous support of numerous organisations and volunteers, including the Coastguard, Red Cross, lifeguards, the Department of Defence, the CityNorth Hotel, LMFM's Gerry Kelly, Suzanne Collins, Coca-Cola Southgate, Matthews Busses, the NECRET Team, Northeast Marquees, and dedicated volunteers like Collette and Rosine Cassiday. Marty Whelan summed up the morning perfectly: "The ladies receive so much encouragement both before and after the 'dip,' and a feeling of camaraderie and giddiness can be heard and felt in the room. I spoke with a few ladies some were newbies, some veterans. One woman, completely out of her comfort zone, took part to boost her self-confidence. Once in the water, the energy was euphoric and contagious." This remarkable event has touched the hearts of all involved, epitomizing bravery, solidarity, and the power of community. Women together can do many amazing things .. For further ways to support this event please contact NECRET Lourdes Hospital Drogheda. https://necret.ie/ Eoghan McCabe will compete in the coveted Youth Start competition in Austria Yet again, Scoil Ui Mhuiri has reached international success in the area of entrepreneurship. Building on the tremendous success of student Tadhg OBrien last year, the Dunleer school will have another student travelling to Europe to compete in the coveted Youth Start competition, initiated by the European Entrepreneurial Organisation. Eoghan McCabe, sixth year student in SUM, will travel to Kitzbuhel in Austria in late September with his proud parents and his Enterprise teacher, Ms Martina Farrell. Eoghan will be competing against the best that Europe has to offer in the area of Entrepreneurship. He will be among a significant student delegation from Ireland. It seems the Irish punch way above our weigh in the area of Entrepreneurship certainly the students in Scoil Ui Mhuiri do! Eoghan has been given this opportunity because of his work in Eoghans Home Run in 2021, where he raised funds for Williams Syndrome and the Ardee Hospice. He achieved all this in the midst of the COVID pandemic and the tractor run raised a substantial five figure sum for both charities. It was a tremendous success and for all his efforts Eoghan was awarded a Special Recognition award from Foroige Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE). A huge achievement in itself. He was also awarded a Louth Garda Youth award in 2022 in honour of his work. In January 2023, Eoghan organised another tractor run, which raised much needed funds for three charities: Ardee Hospice, Williams Syndrome Ireland and Drogheda Special Olympics (Leinster). Theres no stopping this young man he plans to do another one soon. Watch this space! As a result of all that, Ms Farrell nominated him for the European awards. She felt he had benefitted greatly from the NFTE programme and had learnt skills that could not be picked up in the classroom. Skills that he will carry with him for life. Of course, the school is building on the success of Tadhg OBrien who travelled to Oldten in Switzerland only last year. He went on to win the Gold Award in the Real Market Challenge category with his unique and highly crafted pen company. Eoghan will be competing in the We Grow Together category. Eoghan is one of the most popular students in Scoil Ui Mhuiri and if anybody personifies We Grow Together it is Eoghan McCabe. Spanish soliders recalled in poignant fashion at Streedagh Spanish Ambassador Ion de la Riva in silent reflection after laying a wreath at the Spanish Armada memorial at Streedagh beach on Saturday. Senior Spanish Navy officers Lt. Javier Gago and Lt. Jg. Guillermo Maza of the OPV Centinela lay a wreath at Streedagh beach in memory of the Spanish Armada dead of 1588. Pic: Charlie Brady The deaths of 1,100 Spanish Armada soldiers and sailors 435 years ago this September was commemorated at the weekend at Streedagh beach. Their lives were poignantly remembered, a cross for each of the 1,100 souls etched inside a giant circle in the sand on a windswept Streedagh beach in Co Sligo on Saturday. The crosses were drawn around a straw boat, representing a sunken Spanish Armada ship (one of three that sank there in September 1588), before senior officers from todays Spanish Navy including Vice Admiral Torres Pineyro, laid wreaths and sombrely saluted their memory. After 435 years, the sands of time and history may have dramatically shifted but in Sligo on an autumn weekend, the deaths, in cruel and brutal conditions, of these Spanish Armada soldiers were acknowledged. After having been defeated in battle by the English, the Armada ships took the long and dangerous route around the Scottish and Irish coasts back to Spain. After the ships sank off the Sligo coast amid violent storms, many of the sailors who managed to survive made it ashore only to be attacked and killed by waiting English soldiers. The story of what happened that night was recounted by a Spanish Armada sailor Captain Francisco de Cuellar. This years Spanish Armada Remembrance weekend included a series of concerts, lectures, walks and other special events, which concluded today (SUN). Two senior Spanish naval officers from the OPV Centinela, a Spanish Naval Vessel, laid a floral wreath at the Spanish Armada monument overlooking Streedagh beach on Saturday. They then attended the commemoration on the beach, along with members of the public and local representatives. Eddie OGorman, Chair of Spanish Armada Ireland, said: The resumption of the courtesy visits of ships of the Spanish Naval Service after the hiatus of the Covid years is heart-warming and signals the respect that the modern Armada holds for the work of Spanish Armada Ireland. The Irish local government system is the most constrained, narrow based and weakest system in the European Union, the Mayor of Sligo, Cllr Declan Bree said when he spoke at the opening of a conference dealing with the future of local government in Ireland, held in Sligo last week.The event, organised by the Association of Irish Local Government (A.I.L.G.), the national representative body for local authority elected members, was officially opened by Minister Kieran ODonnell, Minister of State for Planning and Local Government. Welcoming delegates to the conference Cllr Bree said: It is fitting that the conference is being held here in the Borough of Sligo where local government has existed in one form or another for over 400 years. The Charter establishing the Borough of Sligo in 1612, provided for the creation of the office of Provost which was later replaced under the Municipal Reform Act, 1842 by the position of Mayor. We are proud to have in our municipal archives the list of Provosts and Mayors of Sligo dating back over the centuries. Local government in the Sligo urban area, along with being the system of government closest to the people, has also been very much part of Sligos heritage and history. In addition it is also noteworthy that Sligo was the first municipality in Ireland or Britain to use proportional representation P.R. the single transferable voting system. At a meeting in February 1918 the members of Sligo Corporation agreed to the drafting of a parliamentary bill to use P.R. in local elections. In July 1918 Thomas Scanlon, MP for North Sligo, introduced the bill to the House of Commons, where it was adopted as the Sligo Corporation Act of 1918 The first use of P.R., for the Sligo borough election of January 1919 was a significant milestone for democracy in Ireland. The extraordinary success of the system in Sligo was quickly followed by the adoption of P.R. at a national level. In this context, given the importance of urban local government and indeed the successful manner in which it delivered services to its citizens over the decades, the decision taken by central government in 2014, to abolish Sligo Borough Council and all the other borough and town councils can only be described as a serious attack on local democracy. An attack which was completely at odds with what was happening in every other European democracy. In the period since then it has been recognised and acknowledged that town and borough councils were the most efficient element within the Irish local government system. The 2014 decision to abolish an entire tier of councils, along with reducing the number of elected representatives at county level and the ongoing diminution of the powers of local councils has created serious difficulties for our local government system. Today, in Ireland there is a council for every 148,000 citizens. In Luxembourg there is a council for every 4,200 citizens; in Belgium there is a council for every 18,000 citizens, in Germany there is a council for every 6,400 citizens, in Finland there is a council for every 17,000 people. What happened here was incredible it made a mockery of the whole concept of local self-government and local democracy. The Irish local government system is now the most constrained, narrow based and weakest system of local government in the European Union. All of us as councillors want to influence our local environment, how our neighbourhoods are planned and developed, how our services are delivered including matters such as housing, education, health services, transport and traffic matters, policing, the everyday issues that shape the quality of our lives. In most countries, these everyday matters are the concerns and functions of a strong system of local government. However, in Ireland decisions relating to these matters are made by unelected officials, bureaucrats or quangos, where there is little or no democratic accountability. Originally our hospitals and health services were run by the local councils. A number of years before I was first elected, control of the health services were transferred to Regional Health Boards, which at least had councillors as members. This was all lost when the unelected HSE was established. From the 1980s onwards councils have continued to lose responsibilities and power. While central government established quangos composed of non elected personal, elected councillors consistently lost powers over road plans, waste management plans, health services, housing, refuse collections, waste charges, water services and many planning functions. Even the decisive role which councillors once had over their annual budget and in respect of development plans were greatly diminished. At the same time County Managers/Chief Executives and senior officials were given additional powers while unelected quangos like the HSE, National Transport Authority and Irish Water were given the seal of approval. In my view, the significant powers vested in officials has led to an extremely weak local political system. Chief Executives do not have a political mandate to represent the local community while at the same time local elected representatives do not have the responsibilities or structures to optimise a strong local leadership role. This local democratic weakness in turn reinforces the tendency for local communities and politicians alike to turn to central government to deal with issues which should be dealt with locally. Ultimately it is the people who are being left powerless as a result of central governments decision to curtail local democracy. I have always made the point that all decisions affecting local communities should be taken by elected councillors. I believe that if communities are to have a real say in the politics and administration of their local area and if we are to have genuine local self government and genuine local democracy we will need to see the introduction of financial autonomy, a major devolution of functions from the national to local authorities, in addition to much needed fundamental reform including the election of directly elected Mayors with real power and the restoration of urban local government. Only be strengthening our local government system can we create the solid foundation upon which we can continue to grow, develop and embrace the many challenges that lie ahead. said Mayor Bree. Independent Deputy Verona Murphy asked the Minister for Education to detail the number of eligible secondary school bus ticket applications for the academic year 2023/2024 in County Wexford. Photo: Stock image Wexford has seen a nearly four per cent increase in the total number of school bus tickets being issued by Bus Eireann for the new school academic year compared to last year, according to figures revealed in the Dail. Independent Deputy Verona Murphy asked the Minister for Education to detail the number of eligible secondary school bus ticket applications for the academic year 2023/2024 in County Wexford, during a Dail debate on Monday, September 11. Deputy Murphy also inquired with the Minister for Education Norma Foley, as to the number of eligible secondary school bus ticket applications for the academic year 2022/2023 in County Wexford, and if she would make a statement on the matter. The School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Eireann on behalf of the Department of Education, answered Minister Foley. The total cost of the scheme in 2022 was 338.9m. Already over 132,000 tickets have issued for the 2023/2024 school year which is an increase of 12 per cent when compared with the same time last year. This number of tickets has already exceeded the total number of tickets issued in the 2022/23 school year. In relation to the locations of fully concessionary secondary school bus routes in County Wexford, the capacity on each of these concessionary services and the total number of applications for these services, Bus Eireann has advised as follows, said Deputy Foley. There are currently routes routes operating to Wexford Town Post Primary Centre which currently only cater for TAM (Temporary Alleviation Measure) and Mainstream concessionary pupils. The total capacity of the three routes is 126. There are 125 pupils issued with tickets on these routes, of the 125 pupils, 122 are TAM pupils and three are mainstream concessionary pupils. There is currently one route operating to Gorey Town Post Primary Centre which currently only caters for TAM and Mainstream concessionary pupils. The route is a 16-seat vehicle with 13 TAM pupils and one Mainstream Concessionary pupil issued with tickets on board. Please note some routes may operate additional trips to other schools and cater for mainstream eligible pupils, added Deputy Foley. Some 1,212 concessionary tickets were issued in Wexford as of September 8 this year, with 1,261 TAM tickets, and 4,616 eligible tickets, making a total of 7,089. This compares to 2,335 concessionary tickets being issued as of September 11, 2022, in Wexford, with 4,483 eligible tickets, making a total of 6,818 tickets. This represents a 5.91 per cent increase in concessionary tickets, and a 2.97 per cent increase in eligible tickets, or a 3.97 per cent increase in total. Labour Local Area Representative for Gorey, Lorna Fitzpatrick, has called on the Government to introduce a 200 monthly childcare cap in the forthcoming Budget. As many childcare providers leave the service, hardworking families in Gorey need a break, said Ms Fitzpatrick. Its time for Government to wake up and realise the pressure that families in Gorey and the surrounding areas are under. September is a dreaded time of year for many families as they face the scramble for childcare places while also meeting the back to school costs of uniforms and voluntary contributions. Enough is enough. Families need a break. The Labour Party is demanding that Government intervene in Octobers Budget and place a 200 monthly cap on childcare costs that are hammering families in Gorey. This measure would cost an extra 275 million annually and would represent money well spent in this years Budget. Its well within our capabilities and its time that Government. Rather than floating meaningless tax cuts, Varadkar should focus on improving terms and conditions for families and workers in the sector. The childcare system is in crisis. Childcare should be seen as an integral part of a State-funded education system. We take for granted that the state has a responsibility to educate our children through primary and second-level. There is no good reason to abdicate this duty during a childs earliest and most impressionable years. At the Think In in Maynooth, the Labour Party also debated building an economy that works. For too long, the Civil War parties of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael have been content to embrace our current economic model uncritically, taking a market knows best approach, said Ms Fitzpatrick. Thats not what the people in Gorey and the surrounding areas are telling me. They are crying out for investment in proper public services and community infrastructure, not 5 extra in their pocket. We now have a State with record levels of employment and Budget surpluses, but a Government that is incapable of solving the crises, like housing, that people face after too many wasted years. At least an extra 1bn is needed for housing in the Budget, and we also need to see a new, more realistic target of building 50,000 homes a year. The eviction ban must be re-introduced for winter 2024, Labours renters Rights bill, and Housing Homeless Families Bill passed. The Labour Party will be relentless in holding Governments feet to the fire when the Dail returns next Wednesday, added Ms Fitzpatrick. Carnew Nursing Home, as it was pictured during its construction, before it opened in June this year Newly built Carnew Nursing Homes Operations Director has called on the Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly to change the Fair Deal nursing home scheme to reflect rising costs in the sector. Carnew Nursing Home opened in June, bucking a trend which has seen high costs and difficult circumstances close many nursing homes across Ireland. The new 90-bed nursing home of 42,000 square feet is beautifully designed and located on the outskirts of Carnew village on the Gorey road near a health centre. At present, the facility cares for 12 residents and employs about 30 staff. Operations Director Cathy Fuller said they received their HIQA registration and have tentatively pencilled in an official launch day for November. The nursing home sector has complained that the Fair Deal scheme, under which residents wealth and assets are put towards their care, is no longer fit for purpose and requires urgent upgrading. High energy and labour costs, and strict HIQA standards, means that many smaller family-run nursing homes have decided they have no option but to close. Despite these challenges, Carnew Nursing Home has grown from strength to strength. We knew that it would a challenge, and you plan for that, said Ms Fuller. We have to ensure our residents are safe and well cared for and live a good quality of life. To be able to provide that is around having good staff in place, with the right numbers of staff. Weve had to budget for that. The sector is heavily regulated by HIQA, but especially as a new nursing home, they aspired to provide a level of care far above the basic standards, she said. Its about the residents at the end of the day. This is where they live, this is their home. We involve the residents and their families we have meetings with them. We get feedback. We talk to people and ask them, is there anything we can do better? While staff costs are the number one cost, Carnew Nursing Home has taken measures to reduce other costs. The brand-new premises incorporates state-of-the-art solar panels, energy saving switches, and economical heating. Although its an initial cost to have all these things fitted, over the years they will pay off, because our bills wont be as high as some of the older nursing homes, that have the old electrics, said Ms Fuller. Staff are trained in energy saving techniques. However, the Fair Deal scheme needs a complete overhaul, said Ms Fuller. One size does not fit all. What the Minister has to be mindful of, is that we are catering for the older population, and their needs tend to change as they grow older. We could have the resident who is with us for six, seven or eight years. Their needs become greater, but the Fair Deal doesnt change as their needs grow more. There is no proviso in Fair Deal for purchasing a new hoist or special chair if the person becomes less mobile. Its about making Fair Deal, fair, in the sense that its geared towards every individuals needs, added Ms Fuller. A review of how people availing of Fair Deal are taxed and assessed was commissioned by Minister of State Mary Butler and will now be presented to Minister Donnelly for consideration. Its understood the review advises that the current tax arrangement should remain in place. Anticipation is building in Wicklow ahead of the long-awaited launch of a new historical book Coollattin, which will take place at Coollattin House, Shillelagh, on Wednesday, September 20. A labour of love for author Kevin Lee and his wife Eleanor, the academic book is complete with references, timelines and a comprehensive history of the Coollattin Estate, chronicling all of its Earls and lords, stretching back to Thomas Wentworth also known as Black Tom up the end of the Fitzwilliam line at the estate in 1979. Coollattin will be the fourth in a series of books penned by Kevin, who is the recognised authority on the history of the former Coollattin estate, with this latest offering marking the culmination of decades of research and dedication. Wicklow historian Kevin Lee's highly-anticipated book Coollattin will launch at Coollattin House, Shillelagh, on Wednesday, September 20. This book has had a very long gestation period with many detours along the way, Kevin said. Indeed, it has taken decades to research and compile. The arrival of Covid ruled out visits to libraries both in Ireland and the UK. The lockdowns did bring with them something positive they allowed the hugely popular Liars Bench and Under the Fox to come on stream. In preparation for our famine summer school in 2022, the book Shoeboxes was written and published. This book tells the story of 50 famine emigrant families from south Wicklow and is proving immensely popular in Canada and the US. Now the time has arrived to give attention to our magnum opus, Coollattin. All are welcome at Coollattin House for the launch on September 20. I look forward to meeting you all there and to signing your copy of a book which will have a place of pride on family bookshelves for many a day to come. In 2016, Kevin and Eleanor established Coollattin Canadian Connection, an initiative seeking to reunite the Canadian diaspora who left the Coollattin estate throughout the first six decades of the nineteenth century to Canada (particularly Ontario) with their south Wicklow roots. Speaking ahead of the launch, Eleanor reaffirmed their commitment to reconnecting as many of the 500 families who left the estate as possible, saying: We aim to try to connect with all the members of the diaspora. Weve connected with 100 of them and personally met with them and hosted them here. Wicklow Heritage Officer Deirdre Burns, who will be launching Coollattin for us, and Catherine Wright, County Wicklow Archivist, have been a tremendous support in our work through Coollattin Canadian Connection, where we reconnect with the diaspora from the 500 families that left the estate during the famine. Kevin has been working on this latest book for decades, and it really represents his lifes work. It was meant to be launched four years ago, but it got caught up in the pandemic, so we turned our attention elsewhere in the meantime and wrote three other books. So, while this is the fourth book of ours to be published, it was meant to be the first one. One of Kevins books, Shoeboxes, documents 50 of these families, and hes working on the sequel to that with the next 50 families, which will again be a collaboration with Tom Jenkins, who is a proud and passionate descendant of an emigrant, from near the Dying Cow, who supports us in everything we do. We can't wait to see everyone at the launch, and owe a big thanks to Coollattin Partnership for giving us the use of the house for the launch. Coollattin will launch at Coollattin House, Shillelagh, on Wednesday, September 20, from 6.30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Books will be on sale at 25 and cheese, wine, and refreshments will be served. All are welcome. AUGHRIM artist Aidan Bolger will appear on an RTE arts programme next year, after his stunning painting of his grandfather received a certificate of commendation in the national broadcasters This Is Art competition. The 17-year-old virtuoso, who will exhibit exciting new works on the upcoming Arklow Culture Crawl for Culture Night, was invited to the Royal Hibernian Academy School in Dublin recently to film for This is Art Club!, which will air on RTE2 in the spring. A devout student of Rembrandt, Goya and, above all else, his renowned photographer grandfather Myles Miley Carroll, Aidans award-winning painting, Inspiration, showcases his rapid development as an artist and is very much a product of his sharp-eyed Wicklow family. Depicting grandad as he snapped local wildlife from a photography hide in Portlaoise, Aidan based his striking piece on a spontaneous picture taken by his aunt Fidelma, herself a top-drawer freelance photographer based in east Cork. Expertly recreating every element of his subject in careful detail, from the elaborate camera set-up to the intricate folds and wrinkles on Mileys shirt, the portrait has drawn Aidan accolades from all corners, his proud grandfather leading the chorus of praise. We were up in a hide watching some wildlife, and I had booked the place for my daughter to come up, as shes a photographer as well a good one too, Miley said. I was busy photographing away, and I never for a second thought that we were in Portlaoise to take pictures of me! She passed it on to Aidan, who did that fantastic painting of it. He sent it into the RTE competition, and we were just so delighted when he won a prize for it. Honestly, seeing his progression and all the recognition hes getting, its just filled all of us with pride. He has a very, very bright future ahead of him. A reserved but highly perceptive character, when asked about his (latest) stellar achievement, Aidan simply celebrated his muse, saying: The inspiration behind my art is my grandad. He is a highly motivated photographer who has given me great visual ideas from his photographs for my artwork. He has such a big passion for nature and loves to share it far and wide. Having enjoyed a prosperous 2022, when he featured in his first exhibition in Askamore and was awarded gongs by his school and the Texaco Childrens Art Competition, Aidans thirst for knowledge has fuelled another whirlwind year in 2023. After achieving a Special Merit Award in the Texaco Art Competition for his remarkable painting of Charlie Bird, entitled An Uphill Battle, the Colaiste Bhride student was visited by the iconic broadcaster, who presented Aidan with a signed copy of his book and marvelled at the likeness of the portrait. Completing his Leaving Cert earlier this year, Aidan has placed plans to do a course in the Gorey School of Art on hold to focus on a myriad of upcoming projects, including next years Texaco and This is Art competitions and the highly-anticipated Arklow Culture Crawl. Brimming with pride at her sons achievements, and the glowing response Aidans portrait has received across social media, mum Deborah joked: Who would have thought that a painting Aidan did of a photo of his grandad, who was there taking photos at the time, was going to land him on national television! We were only delighted he got the certificate of commendation, then to be invited to take part in the programme was the icing on the cake. He spent the day up in Dublin and had a great time in the This is Art Club studio working with RHA artist Una Sealy on a still life lesson. Aidan made a Facebook and Instagram page to show people his art recently, and after he posted the painting, with the side-by-side next to the original, the response was just amazing, and it got a load of views and compliments. He has finished school now, and was initially meant to go to Gorey this year, but he has so much going on at the moment, hes going to take a year break. Since hes still 17, this is his last year he can enter competitions like Texaco and This is Art, and hell more than likely be going into the exhibition in Askamore in November. Hes really excited and focused on the Arklow Culture Crawl at the moment and is working on a couple of new pictures for it. I cant give away any details, but theyre very interesting and something people wont have seen from Aidan before! Theyll be on show in Arklow Library, and we all cant wait to see peoples reactions on the Culture Crawl. It should be a night to remember. 1 CULTURE NIGHT: Culture Night is an all-island annual event happening this Friday that celebrates creativity and the arts and promotes Irelands rich and diverse culture through a dynamic range of experiences and live performances for people of all ages to enjoy free of charge. Wicklows programme of happenings showcases a diverse range of events purposefully selected to open up pathways to creativity. Wicklow County Arts Office in collaboration with Wicklow Library Services has curated a thoughtful programme of performances and events taking place at libraries across the county. Culture Night highlights include the Mermaid Arts Centre in Bray celebrating its 21st birthday by hosting a thrilling line-up of contemporary Irish music acts. Balltinglass also has a special outdoor concert lined-up for the night. Due to popular demand, the Arklow Culture Crawl is back.Launching in Wicklow town on Culture Night is Threading Place, a site-specific visual-art project located across three public spaces in the town. Balto Kayak Club. 2 BALTO KAYAK CLUB: Balto Kayak Club are hosting an introduction day on Saturday, September 23, which is part of the national Be-Active programme that is designed to introduce people to the sport and increase participation by keeping people active. Its also part of European Week of Sport which occurs in September. The sessions get underway from 12 noon to 3pm. and participants need to bring a change of clothes, a towel and wear hard sole shoes/trainers whilst on the water. No changing rooms are available so please come with swimwear on and changing towels/robes for afterwards. Spaces are limited so book in advance at eventmaster.ie. 3 WALK4JOHNS: St. Johns Senior National School in Arklow will host their Walk4Johns family walk and fun day on Sunday, September 24. Everyone is meeting at the school on the Coolgreaney Road and the walk commences at 11 a.m., returning to the school afterwards for activities and refreshments. Tickets cost 7 per single ticket and 20 for a family ticket and details are available on the school Facebook page. Comedian Paul Currie. 4 HARDY HAR COMEDY CLUB: This weeks free event just keeps getting better, with the addition of Emman Idama to the line-up, which already includes Paul Currie. Paul has won many awards for each of his eight Edinburgh solo shows. He has received the highest accolades from the most respected of people in the industry, including the comedians comedian and all round legend, Stewart Lee. he is joined by Emman Idama (Hot Press Magazine Comedian of the Year 20/21), Joe Dowlin (Laughter Lounge, Electric Picnic) and John Bebley (Ros Na Run, All Good Post Offices). Harbour Bar, Thursday, September 21, 8pm. 5 COFFEE MORNING: The North Wicklow Country Market is hosting a Bewleys Big Coffee Morning event, on Saturday September 23, from 10.30am to 12.30pm, at its home in Newcastle Community Centre, to raise money for Wicklow Hospice. We have lost four of our members to cancer, the group said, so this is a charity thats very close to our hearts and we would love to see you there to support it. The market recently celebrated serving the community for 53 years, having started out in Kilcoole in 1970. The market is represented by traders from all towns and villages in North Wicklow and opens every Saturday, selling everything from homemade cakes, to jams, and marmalades, including that made by June Noonan, who has been there since the first day. 6 GREY AREA: Crash Ensemble present Grey Area, a unique skateboarding film with original score by Irish composer Sam Perkin. Shot and edited by skate photographer and videographers Niall OByrne and Sam Curtin, the music is by Cork composer and skater Sam Perkin and is performed by Crash Ensemble. Talking about the film, Sam (Perkin) says: As a composer and skateboarder, it has taken me many years to find a way of blending the two together in a meaningful artistic way. Grey Area is the fruit of a collaboration between friends, an exploration at the crossroads between contemporary music and street skateboarding. The film explores two different worlds each one complementing the other. The first layer is in slow motion and follows a skateboarder from the centre to the outskirts of a city. The second layer intersperses energetic, glitchy shots of a skateboarder interacting with their landscape. All sound was removed from the film and we hear this second layer played by Crash Ensemble. This free event is on at Mermaid Arts Centre, on Saturday, September 23, at 3pm, but booking is required. 7 AUTUMN EQUINOX: An Tairseach Organic Farm and Ecology Centre in Wicklow town presents a celebration of the Autumn Equinox taking place on Thursday, September 21 from 2 pm to 3.30pm. There are only two times of the year when the Earths axis is tilted neither toward nor away from the sun, resulting in a nearly equal amount of daylight and darkness at all latitudes. These events are referred to as Equinoxes. Join An Tairseach in celebrating equal day and equal night and thanksgiving for harvest time. The event is free of charge. Donations would be welcome. Refreshments will be served afterwards. ACCESS issues around Wicklow Head and lighthouses have been called a scandal after close to 150 people took part in a protest march last Saturday. Local people were joined by Wicklow TD Jennifer Whitmore on a walk to the lighthouses on Wicklow Head, the group calling for Wicklow County Council to re-establish permanent access to the first two lighthouse sites, together with access rights out to Wicklow Head. The protest walk was supported by Keep Ireland Open, who are demanding better access to the countryside throughout Ireland. The walk commenced at 2 p.m. from the Glen Turn carpark and then made its way to the public footpath leading to the Lighthouse Road. The protest was held in response to a local landowner, who has locked a gate and blocked access. The gathering was also addressed by Deputy Jennifer Whitmore. Read more Wicklow protest walk to take place to demand public access to lighthouse Speaking afterwards, local activist Fintan Clarke explained why he had joined the march. Its a very popular place for Wicklow people to go, he said. It offers absolutely stunning views, and on a clear day you can see Slieve Donard and the hills of Wales. "Its a tonic to go out there because you are in a whole different world. Its a scandal that one person can block access. Irish Lights never had a problem with people using the route. Chairperson of Keep Ireland Open, Robert Dowds, felt the fact so many turned out despite the very wet and windy weather showed how important the issues is and that many present shared Fintans sentiments. There was a great deal of dissatisfaction over the blocked access and the gate was actually locked when we got to it, he said. I thought it would have been wiser for the landowner to leave the gate unlocked on the day as it just emphasised the fact the access is restricted. "Its just another example of the many sites which are being blocked throughout Ireland, including several in Wicklow. You have issues over access to the north beach in Arklow and west of Roundwood as well. These issues will just persist unless proper legislation is passed protecting and extending access. Most access is permissive anyway, which means it can be withdrawn at any time. Deputy Whitmore has lent her support for the campaign and has vowed to follow up the matter in the Dail. You could see how much it meant to people by the huge turnout on Saturday, despite the bad weather, and not just the people of Wicklow town but also people from the wider county, she said. "This issue has been going on for some time now and its really important both culturally and recreationally to the people of Wicklow town and further afield, and shouldnt be held to ransom. We need tighter national policy and legislation, which is something I will be pursuing at Dail level. Robert and Keep Ireland Open are also campaigning for legislative changes which would bring Ireland in line with the UK and most of Europe. The situation with the lighthouse road wouldnt be able to happen 60 miles east of Wicklow as rights-of-way are much better protected in Wales and the UK than they are in Ireland, he explained. "A landowner in the UK simply wouldnt be permitted to do what happened in Wicklow. People from other countries are often very disappointed about the lack of access in Ireland. "I was talking to a recent German visitor to Ireland and he told me he wouldnt be able to recommend visiting Ireland because he found access very difficult while he was out hiking. We have been lobbying all the main political parties for support in our calls for major legislative changes. Jack, who appeared on last year's Love Island, welcomed his first child back in March and co-parents his daughter with her mum Keely Iqbal. Ali Keating has revealed she only met her baby niece for the first time this week. The daughter of Ronan Keating and Yvonne Connolly met up with her older siblings, Jack and Missy, in London and was finally introduced to Jacks six-month-old baby, Maya. Jack, who appeared on last year's Love Island, welcomed his first child back in March and co-parents his daughter with her mum Keely Iqbal. Equestrian star Ali jetted over to London to celebrate her 18th birthday with her brother and sister and posted some stunning family snaps from her break. London dump. So lovely to finally get to meet my little niece Maya after a hectic year with school and horses! she wrote, adding the hashtags #family and #celebrations. The Keatings got dressed to the nines and headed to the exclusive five-star boutique St James' Hotel and Club, which sits on the outskirts of St James Park in central London, to mark Alis milestone birthday. The teenager shared a mirror selfie with her sister and a pal in an all-black outfit, while Missy pouted for the camera in a white blazer with feathered sleeves. Ronan Keating and his wife Storm threw a party for daughter Ali The trio enjoyed some French cuisine and sipped on champagne during the luxurious dinner before Ali was treated to a big birthday bash with her dad, stepmum Storm, younger siblings Cooper and Coco, and other family members. Her brother Jack previously explained that while he and Keely are not in a relationship, he is "looking forward to co-parenting" daughter Maya with her. "I am delighted to announce the birth of my little girl," Jack told The Sun at the time of Maya's birth. "Her mother and I have decided to keep her identity private for now and we ask everyone to please respect our privacy at this time. "My daughter's mother and I are not together, however we look forward to co-parenting and giving our little girl the best support system that she needs." "This is an exciting new chapter for me and my family and I am completely besotted already," he continued. It was just a year ago in February 2022 when the Australian actor spoke highly of her husband to Page Six, while at the Broadway opening of The Music Man revival starring the X-Men star. She said that she had helped her husband run his lines and noted, Yeah, we do everything together. She made a point of adding that there was nothing irritating about Jackman, his Hollywood nice guy image was a reality rather than a facade. But it seems as though even couples as solid as Jackman and Furness can have trouble brewing in paradise. More than a year after her kind words, the couple shared a joint statement with People on 15 September announcing their split. We have been blessed to share almost three decades together as husband and wife in a wonderful, loving marriage. Our journey now is shifting and we have decided to separate to pursue our individual growth, the couple stated. Our family has been and always will be our highest priority. We undertake this next chapter with gratitude, love, and kindness. We greatly appreciate your understanding in respecting our privacy as our family navigates this transition in all of our lives. They signed the statement withDeb and Hugh Jackman, concluding: This is the sole statement either of us will make. Married for more than 27 years, the Australian couple share two children together: Oscar, 23, and Ava, 18. Furness explained how much she values family to People in November 2020, telling the outlet: Family, to me, means you feel safe. I always use the expression: All of us need to know that were precious, she added. So, with family, youve always got that youre important in someone elses life. On the set of the Australian TV series Corelli, Furness, an established actress and 13 years Jackmans senior, met recent drama school graduate Jackman. After quickly fell head over heels for each other, and they married less than a year later, on 11 April 1996. In an interview with People in 2017, Jackman reflected on their meeting, saying: Deb, she was a big starI get picked up, and Deb is in the front seat of the car. Ill never forget. She took off her seatbelt and she turned around and put out her hand and took off her sunglasses and said: Hi, Im Deborra-Lee Furness, nice to meet you. I remember thinking: I like this girl, he recalled. For Jackman, it was love at first sight. I knew very early, I knew before Deb knew. Even when she tried to break up with me, I knew, he continued. She kind of [broke up with me], a little bit. Early on, three weeks in. I managed to talk her out of it, thank God. Im a very indecisive person, Deb really knows this about me, he added. I can count on my hand the amount of times in my life anything has felt that clear to me, and when it happens its such a relief for me. The couples last public appearances were at the Met Gala in May, in which both wore outfits honouring the late Karl Lagerfeld, and at the mens finals at Wimbledon in July. The theatre was set to host the latest in Brands Bipolarisation tour tomorrow night but has now said it is postponing the gig after UK police confirmed a woman has come forward claiming she was sexually assaulted by the entertainer 20 years ago. Victoria Gudyma (left) and Tom Hashemi as they cycled around London in the shape of the UK and (right) their route (Victoria Gudyma/Strava/PA) A Ukrainian cyclist rode her bike around London in the shape of the United Kingdom to show her gratitude for the UKs ongoing support for Ukraine. Victoria Gudyma, 32, was accompanied by cyclist Tom Hashemi, 35, from the UK, as they rode more than 125 miles on Sunday in an outline of the UK. Meet the firm behind our content. Visit their website to see how their services can help your business succeed. Photo Courtesy; Pixabay On September 7, 2023, at least 11 people were injured in an attack at Shaheed Chowk in the Khipro town of Sanghar District in Sindh, in a Shia mourning procession which was being carried out in observance of Imam Hussains Chehlum (the 40th, concluding, day of ritual mourning). The procession was taken out by participants of a majlis, held in the Asgharia Imambargah. The trouble started when operatives belonging to the banned Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat (ASWJ) tried to block the path of the procession, claiming that mandatory permission had not been obtained. Sanghar Senior Superintendent of Police Abid Baloch stated that tensions in Khipro had been brewing for a few days, after the organisers of the majlis made public their intention to take out a mourning procession. On July 8, 2023, at least five people were killed and 21 suffered injuries in an attack on Shias in the Boshera village in the Kurram District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). On May 4, 2023, assailants entered a school staffroom in a Kurram District school, where students were taking exams, and selectively killed seven Shia teachers. According to partial data collated by the South Asia Terrorism Portal (SATP), three incidents (above) of attacks on Shias, resulting in 12 Shia fatalities, have been reported in 2023, so far (data till September 17). In 2022, there was one such incident which had resulted in 63 fatalities. According to the SATP database, since March 6, 2000, when SATP started compiling data on conflicts in Pakistan, at least 2,790 people belonging to the Shia community have been killed in Pakistan, in 480 incidents, and another 2,393 people have been injured. Some of the prominent incidents of attacks on Shias included: March 4, 2022: The Islamic State-Khorasan Province (IS-KP) carried out a suicide attack at the Kucha Risaldar Mosque of the Shia community at Qissa Khwani Bazaar in Peshawar, the provincial capital of KP, killing at least 63 people and injured another 196. Later, a post from ISIS-affiliated Amaq news agency claimed that a suicide bomber trained by the terrorist group had carried out the attack. January 3, 2021 : Islamic State (IS) terrorists killed 11 coal miners belonging to the Shia Hazara communities by slitting their throats and injured four others in the Machh area of Kachhi District in Balochistan Province. April 12, 2019: At least 16 persons. including two children and one Frontier Corps (FC) trooper were killed and 30 others, including four FC personnel, sustained injuries, after an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded at the Hazar Ganji vegetable market of Quetta, the provincial capital of Balochistan. The target of the attack were the Hazara Shias. Shias account for approximately 10-15 per cent of the Muslim population of Pakistan. The country is home to the worlds second largest Shia population, after Iran. Shias in Pakistan are geographically spread across the country. The highest numbers are found in Gilgit-Baltistan, where they form the majority. They also reside in Karachi, Sanghar, Nawabshah and Hyderabad in Sindh. Within Karachi, the concentrations of Shia, particularly Hazaras, can be found in Abbas Town, Hussain Hazara Goth, Mughal Hazara Goth, Rizvia, Ancholi, Defence Housing Authority (DHA) Gizri, Pak Colony and Manghopir. Shias live throughout Punjab, including in Lahore. However, Sunni and Shia communities are more segregated in southern Punjab. Most Shias in KP live in Peshawar, Hangu, Kohat, and Dera Ismail Khan. The Hazara community within the Shia sect mostly live in enclaves in Quetta due to the security situation in Balochistan, in Hazara Town and Mariabad. They also reside in Sanjawi, Mach, Zhob, Harnai, Loralai, and Dukki in Balochistan. Over the decades, the Shias of Pakistan have been narrowly targeted and ruthlessly killed in armed attacks and by suicide bombers. They have been killed inside their mosques and shopping markets, while on pilgrimage to Iran and even at funerals. Shia have also been subjected to numerous forms of hate speech and acts, most commonly as campaigns in mosques, schools, public spaces and increasingly on social media. They are often maligned as a community for their religious beliefs. Such campaigns openly label them apostates or heretics, and call on Sunnis to kill them. There is a huge trend of takfir: a practice of calling another sect heretic, in which Sunni extremist groups raise slogans against Shias, call them Kafir (infidel) and declare them wajib ul qatl (fit to be killed). More dangerously, hashtags pronouncing Shias as blasphemers and infidels often trend on social media. Furthermore, the ethnic Hazara communities also experience significant violent attacks as a result of their Shia ancestry. According to partial data collated by SATP, since 2006, 386 Hazaras have been killed in Pakistan in 81 incidents (data till September 17, 2023). The Country Policy and Information Note Pakistan: Hazaras, published in July, 2022 by the UK Home Office, notes, According to Pakistan's National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR), at least 2,000 Hazaras have been killed in terrorist-related incidents and targeted killings between 1999 and late 2017. Hazaras are an ethnic group mainly based in Afghanistan, but also with a large population in Pakistan, with population estimates of this group in Pakistan ranging from 650,000 to 900,000. The majority of Hazaras in Pakistan, approximately 500,000, live in Quetta city. Sectarian terrorism now runs across the entire range of Sunni Islamist groups in Pakistan, including adherents to what was once regarded as the more moderate Barelvi sub-sect - believed to constitute a majority of Pakistan's population. Mentioning the danger of sectarian conflict within Pakistan and its percolation into various sects, the International Crisis Group (ICG) Report, A New Era of Sectarian Violence in Pakistan, published in September 2022, thus observes: Until recently, the country's sectarian divide mainly pitted some Deobandis against Shias, with hardliners among the former denigrating the latter with the slogan Shia kafir (Shias are non-believers) Tehreek-e-Labaik [a Barelvi organisation] has now embraced the Deobandi antipathy for Shias as its own. Many Labaik members and supporters apply the Sunni concept of takfir - in effect, excommunicating Muslims whose practices they deem improper - to Shias As reported in March, 2021, according to the Center for Social Justice, at least 199 individuals were accused of blasphemy offenses in Pakistan in the year 2020. The accused were mostly Shia (70 per cent of cases) and Ahmadi Muslims (20 per cent of cases). Significantly, on January 17, 2023, the National Assembly, the lower house of Pakistans federal Parliament, unanimously passed an amendment to Pakistans blasphemy law through the Criminal Laws (Amendment) Act, 2023. This private members bill was introduced by Moulana Abdul Akbar Chitrali, a member of the religious party Jamaat-e-Islami. In the statement of objects and reasons for the Bill, Chitrali highlighted blasphemy on the internet and social media and argued that disrespecting the companions of the Prophet Muhammad and other sacred personalities not only promotes the terrorism and disruption in the country but it also hurts the people from all walks of life. Shia leaders and politicians joined other minority groups in vehemently opposing the controversial legislation, citing its potential for exacerbating sectarian tensions and victimizing minorities. On August 16, 2023, scholars, and political leaders within the Shia community warned that the blasphemy laws were being used to marginalize the Shia community and curtail their ceremonies, particularly during the mourning months of Muharram and Safar, under false charges of blasphemy. Pakistans Government appears increasingly to be falling into the trap of fundamentalists and religious fanatics, instead of safeguarding the rights of all its people, and particularly the minorities, including minority Muslim sects, who have been systematically targeted in campaigns of hate and violence. It is clear that minority religious communities cannot live their lives free from threat or fear of assault in the Pakistan of today, even as their persecution is increasingly institutionalized, particularly with the further hardening of blasphemy laws. The Consulate General of India in Vancouver has strongly condemned the assault on a Sikh student in Canadas British Columbia province and called for prompt action against perpetrators. The 17-year-old Sikh student was either beer or pepper sprayed by another teenage student after exiting a public transit bus on his way home on September 11. The Indian student was assaulted at the intersection of Rutland Rd S and Robson Rd E in Canadas British Columbia, according to a statement by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. In a post shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, the Consulate General of India in Vancouver stated, @cgivancouver strongly condemns assault on an Indian national in Kelowna and requests Canadian authorities to investigate the incident and take prompt action against the perpetrators. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police in a statement said, On September 11th, 2023, just before 4:00pm, Kelowna RCMP were dispatched to a pepper spray incident at the intersection of Rutland Rd S and Robson Rd E. Officers determined a 17-year old Sikh student was either bear or pepper sprayed by another teenaged male after exiting a public transit bus on his way home. It said there was an altercation on the bus prior to the beer spray incident which resulted in those involved being directed off the bus. Police said that several witness statements have been obtained and the teenaged suspect has been identified. After exiting the bus, a second incident occurred where the suspect male deployed bear spray on the victim, it said. The statement further said, Bystanders called the police who attended and are actively investigating this incident. Several witness statements have been obtained and the teenaged suspect in this incident has already been identified. According to the statement, investigators are still collecting CCTV evidence and other relevant information including taking steps to determine the motivation behind crime. Speaking to CBC News, Kelowna City Councillor Mohini Singh said that the student had only been in the city for around five months and spoke little English. She termed the attack totally unacceptable. She said that the student is in a state of shock and is absolutely traumatized. He loves going to school. He has a great rapport with his teachers. No problem there, she said. He is absolutely traumatized. Hes in a state of shock, CBC News quoted Mohini Singh as saying. Mohini Singh said she met the teenager, and that he was hardly able to lift his head from his chest. She said, This has sent shockwaves through the community, the councillor said. The Indo-Canadian community is shocked by this this is absolutely despicable. Its the second attack on a Sikh student in the central Interior city this year. On March 17, another Indian Sikh student Gagandeep Singh was also attacked, according to CBC News report. At the time, Royal Canadian Mounted Police said investigators were carrying out consultations with their hate crimes unit. (Image and text courtesy: Khalsavox.com/ANI) Image: World Bank I am the perfect example of Make in India, declared Ajay Banga, the current Chief of the World Bank, in a recent interview. His statement encapsulates not only his own remarkable journey but also serves as an inspiring story of an Indian-educated youth who has ascended to one of the most influential positions in the global financial arena. Bangas roots lie deep in India, where he spent his formative years and received his education exclusively from Indian institutes. Remarkably, he proudly stated that he hadnt pursued a single course abroad. This assertion underscores the quality and competence of education available within the countrys borders, demonstrating that one can achieve great heights through dedication and hard work, regardless of where they start. In the interview, Banga emphasized the role of luck, hard work, and the ability to seize opportunities in achieving success. He underscored that luck plays a significant part in ones journey but added that the remainder of success is built upon relentless effort and capitalizing on opportunities as they arise. Bangas appointment as the head of the World Bank came at a pivotal moment in global finance. Indias G-20 Presidency focused on reforming multilateral development banks, with Banga entrusted by President Biden to adapt the World Bank to address Chinas growing challenge to the traditional Washington-led global financial order. Bangas unique perspective as an Indian-educated professional brings a fresh perspective to this challenge, illustrating the global significance of Indian talent and expertise. The World Bank Chief also challenged the notion of a Washington-dominated world. He pointed out that over half of the World Banks employees are located outside the United States, highlighting the institutions global nature and the importance of diverse voices in shaping its future. Bangas vision for the World Bank is clear: he seeks to redefine its mission and make it more inclusive. His recent interactions with world leaders and finance ministers from numerous countries have given him valuable insights into this transformation. Key elements of his strategy include defining a clear vision, communicating it effectively, efficient management, and measurable goals with straightforward scorecards. When it comes to geopolitics and China, Banga displayed a pragmatic approach. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the world but emphasized that the financial energy required to address these challenges should not be concentrated within a single institution. Despite geopolitical complexities, he noted that China is a shareholder in the World Bank, and their financial contributions have evolved over time. Additionally, Banga highlighted the pressing global issues of climate change and healthcare as pivotal areas for the World Banks focus in the coming years. These are areas where international collaboration and financial support are paramount, and the World Bank, under his leadership, aims to play a significant role. Lastly, Bangas discussions with US President Joe Biden have underscored the importance of American contributions to the World Bank, which enhance the institutions capacity to make a global impact. This partnership reaffirms the World Banks relevance in addressing global challenges. Ajay Bangas journey from an Indian youth to the helm of the World Bank serves as a testament to the potential that Indian education and talent hold on the global stage. His vision for the institution, coupled with his pragmatic approach to geopolitics, promises to bring a fresh perspective to the world of global finance and development. As an inspiring figure, he showcases how dedication, hard work, and seizing opportunities can lead to extraordinary achievements. (Image and Text Credit: Khalsavox.com) Andrew Z. Galarneau // News Food Editor The worst thing about Frank Gourmet Hot Dogs is its name. The gourmet part is true enough. Among its specialty dogs, Tonawandas better burger shack offers a skinny link, chosen for snappiness, coddled in shredded cheddar, blueberry barbecue sauce and a drift of frizzled onions. The Violet Beauregarde ($6.50) is shockingly right from the first bite and gourmet as heck. My beef is that the moniker conceals the multispectrum glory launched a decade ago by brothers Frank and Paul Tripi. Hot dogs. Sure, and Mel Brooks is a writer. Let me be frank: Hot dogs are only the first of a half-dozen motivations to get thyself to Frank. First is the price. There are Buffalonians who dont believe in better hot dogs. Or that if one exists, they cannot afford such frippery. Au contraire, mon frere. A Frank dog with ketchup, mustard, onion, pickle spear, hot chili sauce weighs in at $4.50. At the most famous first name-branded wiener merchant in town, the standard costs $4.09, a difference of 41 cents. Not a big bet to place. Second reason is the fries. Hand-cut fries abound, but Frank does it the hard way, cooking every batch twice for Belgian-level frites. The best fries in Buffalo are just $4 small, $6 large, less than Five Guys asks. Rare in the Buffalo landscape: house-cut sweet potato fries ($6). Frank cooks do the work, resulting in bronzed spears with creamy insides and crunchy caramelized tips. Butter and cinnamon sugar finishes the sweet potato pie picture, demonstrating mastery of tater technique for customer benefit. Five Guys has ketchup. Frank does, too and six bespoke dipping mayonnaises ($1.25). Dill pickle and dijonaise are popular, garlic-cilantro divisive Youre gonna love it or hate it, the menu warns. There is no in-between with this one. Third: cheeseburgers. Ground beef squished on the griddle so its edges caramelize, smashburgers offer another path to burger nirvana in a landscape dominated by bigger-is-better patties. Smashburgers with American cheese on a Martin potato bun ($8) are exemplars of handheld condiment balance, meaning you can eat one driving without a poncho. This is where chain snobbery sneaks in. In my decadelong survey of anyone willing to talk dogs in Western New York, Ive consistently met people who had decided, without reviewing any evidence, that Frank Gourmet Hot Dogs was too expensive for burgers, dogs and fries. But heres the tale of the register tape: Five Guys gets $9.69 for a cheeseburger, and I have never fielded a gripe about their pricing. Frank charges $8, and still gets eye-rolls from the penny-pinchers. Fortunately, after a decade of diligence, enough folks have cottoned on to the Frank difference. Fried onion cheeseburgers ($8) smash the beef onto a pile of semi-caramelized onions, which infuse allium grace throughout the proceedings. Franks black-bean-based veggie burger ($9.50) is a vegetarian go-to on a menu that has naught but fries for vegans, hardly shocking on a burger shack menu. At Frank, the Nashville chicken sandwich ($12) uses brined thighs for juiciness, topped with cabbage claw and bread and butter pickles to cut the heat. If you dont enjoy a triple-chile threat for lunch, a non-spicy cousin, the Joker ($12), with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion and mayonnaise-ketchup sauce, delivers all of the pleasure of fried chicken without infernal pain. Fourth: Americana. At their repurposed Tonawanda auto garage at Kenmore and Starin, Frank has a corner on world-class American sandwiches offered as rotating specials, like Midwestern pork tenderloin, New York City-level pastrami and Nashville chicken wings. To get in on the specials, sign up for the weekly email at findfranknow.com, which offers a heads up to approaching limited eating opportunities. Thats how you snag dishes like pastrami queso fries ($17), smoked-then-steamed beef crusted in black pepper and coriander, chopped and heaped over fries, caramelized onions and housemade queso. Its also sliced thick onto mustard and rye for sandwiches ($18/$26), until its gone. Pork tenderloin pounded out into Frisbee size, crumbed and deep-fried before being served on a ludicrously overmatched regular-size potato roll with honey mustard, is a Midwestern specialty. Theres one place to find it in town: Frank. Fish fries abound. Franks Lenten special has developed such a following that one must pick time slots on fish fry days. Fifth: Gluten-free skills. Frank always has gluten-free fryers, and gluten-free buns ($2) are always available for all sandwiches. Gluten-free fish fry, too. Sixth: Eating at Frank Gourmet Hot Dogs means enjoying a story, which makes every dish better. This ones about Town of Tonawanda twins who loved burgers, dogs and fries enough to dedicate a decade to their mastery. Who bet on home when chancing their fortunes on turning an auto shop into another community center: a burger shack families can afford. The Tripi twins have given their hometown a restaurant every neighborhood in America wishes were down the street, to be frank. Frank Gourmet Hot Dogs 707 Kenmore Ave., Tonawanda, findfranknow.com, 716-322-5933 Hours: noon to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. Closed Monday. Prices: hot dogs, $4.50-$7; hamburger, $7.50-$10; chicken sandwiches, $12 and fries, $4-$6. Atmosphere: chill cafeteria Outdoor dining: yes Photo courtesy: UNI Srinagar/UNI: Security forces continued the search operation in the dense woods of Anantnag on the sixth day on Monday. There had been no firing from either side since last evening at Gadol Kokernag and security forces continued combing operations in the area, officials said. There was no report of any militant casualties so far. The operation has been going on since Wednesday after two decorated Army officers, Colonel Manpreet Singh, Commanding Officer of the 19 Rashtriya Rifles, his company commander, Major Aashish Dhonchak, also from the 19 RR, and Deputy Superintendent of Police Himayun Muzamil Bhat, were killed and two other soldiers were injured in a gun battle in the area. Photo courtesy: Twitter/@BJP4India New Delhi/IBNS: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday delivered a heartfelt speech in bidding farewell to the existing Parliament building before moving to the new block. Addressing the Lok Sabha in a five-day special session, Modi referred to India's first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and his "A tryst with destiny" speech. "The echo of Pandit Nehru's 'at the stroke of midnight' speech will keep on inspiring us. "It is also in this House, Atal Bihari Vajpayee said governments will come and go, parties will be created and destroyed but the country will remain forever," said Modi in the lower house of Parliament. Modi has paid respect to all who have been part of the Parliament building which is witnessing the last proceedings on Monday. Highlights of Modi's speech "It is a very emotional moment to bid farewell to this House. As we are leaving this House, our mind is filled with many emotions and many memories." "Around the world, people are praising the achievements of India. The success of the Chandrayaan-3 showcases a new side of India's ability which is related to innovation, technology, science and the capabilities of our scientists." "More than 7,500 public representatives have so far contributed in both the houses. During this period, about 600 women MPs have enhanced the dignity of both the Houses." PM Modi outside Parliament | Photo courtesy: Twitter/UNI "Today I also salute those who faced bullets on their chests to save the House and its members while fighting the terrorists. They are not among us, but they have protected us in a great way." "Today, India is being acknowledged as the 'Vishwamitra'! The whole world is seeing India as a friend; the main reason for this is our culture from the Vedas to Vivekananda. The mantra of 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas' is helping us unite the world." "Today, as we are leaving this House, I also want to remember those journalist friends who have spent their entire lives reporting the work of Parliament. In a way, they have been a living witness. They provided every moment information to the country." "In the post-independence period, many learned people raised various concerns about India. They raised apprehensions about whether India would be able to thrive or not, whether it would remain united or not, whether the democracy in India would survive or not. But it is the power of this parliament that the world was proven wrong. India thrived, despite all the doubts and darkness!" "The movement for the liberation of Bangladesh was also supported by this House under the leadership of Indira Gandhi. This House had also seen the attack on democracy during the Emergency. And this House also saw the return of democracy, making the people of India realize the power." "The mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, many historical decisions, issues pending for decades and their solutions were also taken in this House. This House will always remember Article 370. One Nation One Tax, GST was also decided by this House. 'One Rank, One Pension' was also seen by this House. 10% reservation for the poor happened in this House without any controversy." "The decision to construct this building was of foreign rulers. But we can never forget that my countrymen had invested hard work, sweat and money in the construction of this building. Even though we will move to a new building. But this old building will also always inspire the coming generations." Image Courtesy: UNI On September 13, 2023, Colonel Manpreet Singh, Battalion Commander of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, his company commander Major Aashish Dhonchak and Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Humayun Bhat, were killed in a counter-terrorist operation in the Kokernag area of Anantnag District in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). The intelligence-based Operation Garol, to flush out terrorists who had taken shelter in the thick jungles of Kokernag, was still going on at the time of writing, with reports indicating that at least 2 to 3 terrorists were in hiding. Meanwhile, another soldier, who was reported missing on September 14, was reported dead on September 15. Inputs indicate that this was the same group of terrorists who had carried out the attack on army personnel on August 4, 2023, killing three troopers in the Halan Forest area of Kulgam District. The Resistance Front, a proxy of the Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT), has claimed responsibility for the September 13 killings. The last terrorist incident in J&K in which an officer of the Indian Army at the rank of Colonel was killed, was reported on May 2, 2020. Colonel Ashutosh Sharma and Major Anuj Sood were among five Security Force (SF) personnel killed in a counter-terrorist operation at a village in the Rajwar Forest in the Chanjmulla area of Kupwara District. Two holed-up terrorists, including LeT commander Haider, a Pakistani national, were later killed. Since the August 5, 2019, rescinding of the special status of J&K under Article 370, as well as the division of the State and its reduction to two Union Territories, J&K has recorded killings of two Colonel rank officers and two Majors in two incidents (above). The highest ranked Police officer killed during this period was DSP Humayun Bhat (September 13, 2023). In the corresponding period preceding (June 23, 2015 - August 4, 2019), 11 senior SF personnel had been killed in clashes with the terrorists, including five Majors, four Captains and two DSPs of the J&K Police. Prior to August 5, 2019, the last incident in which a Colonel rank officers was killed was reported on November 17, 2015, when Colonel Santosh Mahadik was killed and another two SF personnel were injured, in an encounter with a group of three terrorists in the Manigah Forest Area of Kupwara District. The highest ranked officer killed in a terrorist attack in Kashmir, till date, was Brigadier V.K. Govil, who was killed when a three-member fidayeen (suicide squad) stormed an Army camp at village Bangti on the Tanda Road in Akhnoor, Jammu. Eight SF personnel, including the Brigadier, were killed and 12 others, including four Generals, a Brigadier and two Colonels, were injured in the attack. It is important to mention here that the SFs have established clear dominance over terrorists in J&K over the past several years. In 2023 (till September 17), the number of SF personnel killed stands at 21, as against 28 in the corresponding period of 2022. There was a total of 30 fatalities in this category in 2022. A recent high of 95 SF personnel killed was recorded in 2018, which dropped to 78 in 2019, 56 in 2020 and 45 in 2021. Between 1990 and 2007, the peak years of the terrorist movement, deaths in this category in each year remained continuously in the three digits, with a high of 638 killed in 2000. In between, a low of 18 SF fatalities was recorded in 2012. At the same time, the number of active terrorists in J&K has fallen considerably, from the thousands in the 1990s and early 2000s, to less than 150 at present, with almost the entire ground level leadership in the Union Territory eliminated. Government sources claim that the number of Foreign Terrorists (Pakistani nationals) stands at less than 20, at present. The success has been slow, but steady and seems more or less irreversible. However, there have been several incidents during this period which force the conclusion that SFs, after having achieved tremendous success on the ground in their fight against Pakistan-backed terrorists with their valor, grit and sacrifices, have failed to sustain the highest degree of operational alertness to meet the element of surprise. In addition to the September 13 incident, some other recent cases include: May 5, 2023: At least five soldiers were killed when a group of terrorists ambushed them inside a jungle in Rajouri district. Jammu-based defence spokesperson Lt. Col. Devender Anand, subsequently disclosed, On specific information about [the] presence of terrorists in the Kandi Forest in Rajouri Sector, a joint operation was launched on Wednesday [May 3]. At about 0730 hours on Friday [May 5], a search team established contact with a group of terrorists well entrenched in a cave. The area is thickly vegetated with rocky and steep cliffs. The terrorists triggered an explosive device in retaliation. The Army team has suffered two fatal casualties with injuries to four more soldiers, including an officer. It was believed that the terrorists involved in the attack were the same group of terrorists who were behind the attack on an army truck on April 20, 2023, in Poonch, which left five soldiers dead. October 11, 2021: Five Army personnel, including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), were killed during an anti-insurgency operation in a village close to Dera Ki Gali at Surankote in Poonch District. The operation had been launched in the early hours, following intelligence inputs about the presence of militants. June 17, 2019: An Army Major and a militant were killed, while another officer and two troopers were injured in a counter-terrorist operation in the Achabal area of Anantnag District. After each such incident arguments emerge that a new method or tactic has been adopted by the terrorists and that is why the Forces were caught unawares and suffered losses. Investigations into past incidents have, however, exposed a measure of complacency and failure to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) in several cases. At a time when militancy is at a low ebb, the terrorists are on the run, and their masters in Islamabad fighting for their own survival, each terrorist success on the ground, particularly the killing of senior SF officers, is likely to boost morale in the terrorist rank and file. At a time when the SFs have established overwhelming dominance across J&K, the objective must be to dictate the terms of engagement and minimize SF casualties. Jeffrey Wright in a scene from American Fiction by Cord Jefferson. Photo courtesy: TIFF Toronto: Cord Jeffersons American Fiction, a wicked satire about the commodification of marginalized voices and a portrait of an artist forced to re-examine his integrity, has won the Peoples Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) , raising the film's prospects in the Oscar race. Jeffrey Wright stars in Cord Jeffersons adaptation of Percival Everetts Erasure as his work has been hailed as one of his most beautifully nuanced performances. Filmmaker Cord Jefferson, born in Tucson in Arizona, is an Emmy Awardwinning writer and story editor whose television credits include Master of None (17), Watchmen (19), The Good Place (1719), and Succession (19). American Fiction (23) is his feature debut. Cord Jefferson wins the People's Choice Award at the TIFF. Photo courtesy: MGM Studios The Toronto International Film Festival 2023, which began on Sept 7 and concluded on Sept 17 , has announced the award recipients for the 48th edition of the Festival. Were grateful to all the audience members, artists, industry professionals, and supporters who graced Torontos cinemas, red carpets, meeting spaces, and streets, said Cameron Bailey, TIFF CEO. As we recognize award winners today, we thank everyone who contributed to this glorious, collective gift, he said. The Winners: TIFF 2023 PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARD: American Fiction directed by Cord Jefferson. The first runner-up is The Holdovers directed by Alexander Payne, and the second runner-up is The Boy and the Heron directed by Hayao Miyazaki. SHORT CUTS AWARDS: The winners of the three awards for SHORT CUTS AWARDS who would each get a bursary of $10,000 CAD: Daria Kashcheeva, director of the film Electra, which resonates with under-the-skin discomfort long after the film is over, would be the recipient of the Short Cuts Award for Best Film. Short Cuts Award for Best Canadian Film would be bestowed to Jasmin Mozaffari, director of the film, Motherland. Renee Zhan, director of the film She (Snake) is the recipient of the Short Cuts Share Her Journey Award for capturing the hearts of the audience with its humour and charm. Honourable Mention is made to Gabys Hills, directed by Zoe Pelchat NETPAC AWARD: Instituted to promote Asian cinema and to bring international attention to independent and non-mainstream films focusing on the discovery of new talent, this award is given to Jayant Digambar Somalkars A Match for his immersive portrayal of life in an Indian village, highlighting its oppressive patriarchal customs. An honourable mention has been made to Mimang, directed by Kim Taeyang. THE 2023 FIPRESCI PRIZE: It is bestowed on director Meredith Hama-Brown for his film Seagrass for carefully staging her convincing actors, especially the young ones and skillfully dealing with subjects like masculinity, family taboos, motherhood and structural anti-Asian racism. The three Amplify Voices Awards presented by Canada Goose will receive a cash prize of $10,000 each. They are as follows: Amplify Voices Award - Best BIPOC Canadian Feature: Kanaval, directed by Henri Pardo, for capturing both magical realism and post-colonial trauma, in a beautiful, poetic, and convincing way and is an honest ode to the immigrant experience. Amplify Voices Award for Best BIPOC Canadian First Feature Award is presented to Tautuktavuk (What We See), directed by Carol Kunnuk, Lucy Tulugarjuk for powerfully capturing truth by turning the camera inward to both look at and listen to themselves and their community and honouring the authenticity of their voices. The Amplify Voices Award celebrating a Canadian BIPOC Trailblazer, recognizing a producer, was presented to Damon DOliveira, producer for making significant contributions to the Canadian film landscape Solo, directed by Sophie Dupuis, has been selected as this years Best Canadian Feature Film for its coming-of-age narrative about family, both blood and chosen, and the complications and beauties of both. CHANGEMAKER AWARD: The Changemaker Award is presented to We Grown Now, directed by Minhal Baig for embracing the power in young people and celebrates the next generation of storytellers and changemakers in cinema. The winning film receives a $10,000 CAD prize for offering a compelling depiction of family and friendship within the backdrop of Chicagos public housing project, Cabrini-Green. PLATFORM AWARD: The 2023 Platform Award of $20,000 CAD is given to Dear Jassi, directed by Tarsem Singh Dhandwar for his honest portrayal of a subject matter that still affects large portions of individuals forced to live under the inhumanity of bitter caste systems throughout the globe. The TIFF 2023 Peoples Choice Midnight Madness Award winner is Dicks: The Musical directed by Larry Charles. The first runner-up is Kill directed by Nikhil Nagesh Bhat with the second runner-up being Hell of a Summer directed jointly by Finn Wolfhard and Billy Bryk. The TIFF 2023 Peoples Choice Documentary Award winner is Mr. Dressup: The Magic of Make Believe dir. Robert McCallum. The first runner-up is Summer Qamp dir. Jen Markowitz. The second runner-up is Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa dir. Lucy Walker. (Reporting by Asha Bajaj and Suman Das) Photo Courtesy: Arnold Schwarzenegger Instagram page Hollywood superstar Arnold Schwarzenegger, who is best remembered for his performance in iconic Terminator movies, recently celebrated completing 40 years as an American citizen. Born in Austria, Arnold became an American citizens 40 years ago and on he described the moment as the 'proudest' moment in his life. "On this day 40 years ago, I became an American citizen," the former governor of California wrote on Instagram. Arnold further said: "It is one of the proudest days of my life. I owe everything to America. Born in Austria, Made in America!" He served as the 38th governor of California from 2003 to 2011 and was among Time magazine's 100 most influential people in the world in 2004 and 2007. After playing the title character in the science fiction film The Terminator (1984), he starred in Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991) and three other sequels. His other successful action films included Commando (1985), The Running Man (1987), Predator (1987), Total Recall (1990), and True Lies (1994), in addition to comedy films such as Twins (1988), Kindergarten Cop (1990) and Jingle All the Way (1996). Image: Wikimedia Commons Private carrier IndiGo has announced the introduction of new direct flights between the Indian city of Hyderabad and Sri Lankan capital Colombo from November 2, 2023. IndiGo said it is the first Indian carrier to provide direct connectivity between the two cities. Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales at IndiGo, said, This would serve as a catalyst for further enhancing business ties, trade as well as tourism between India and Sri Lanka." "The introduction of these flights will not only enhance connectivity but also provide travellers with greater flexibility and convenience," he said. "We will continue to offer more flight options, adhering to our promise of on-time, affordable, courteous, and hassle-free travel experiences across our unparalleled network," he said. Photo Courtesy: UNI Tehran/UNI: Iranian law enforcement forces have apprehended 137 individuals in the northwestern province of West Azerbaijan for inciting protests against the government. According to Rahim Jahanbakhsh, the commander of the province's law enforcement forces, these individuals were identified for encouraging unrest via social media platforms. In addition, 52 Instagram accounts have been blocked and permanently removed. Out of the 137 detainees, 14 have been arrested and handed over to the judicial authorities. Iran's intelligence organization within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has reported the neutralization of a terrorist network comprising 15 individuals in the province of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad. This group had purportedly planned to carry out a series of terrorist attacks using improvised explosive devices. The heightened security measures coincide with the anniversary of Mahsa Amini's tragic death, a young woman who passed away in the custody of Iran's morality police last year, following her detainment for not wearing a proper head covering. Her death triggered widespread protests across Iran. Photo Courtesy: Wallpaper Flare At least 167 Ethiopian soldiers were killed in an ambush by militants of the radical Islamist group Al-Shabaab in western Somalia, the Somali Guardian news portal reported on Sunday, citing the group. The group also said that surviving Ethiopian soldiers had been captured and the advance of Ethiopian troops had been stopped, the report said, adding that the militants also destroyed Ethiopian military equipment and seized a large amount of weapons. The Ethiopian armed forces and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) have not yet commented on the attack, the report noted. The Ethiopian military tried to strengthen its forward operating base in the town of Wajid, which has been under militants control for almost a decade, the news portal reported. Al-Shabaab is a Somalia-based jihadist militant group linked to an al-Qaeda terrorist group (banned in Russia). It wages armed resistance against the Somali government and obstructs UN humanitarian missions in the country. (With UNI inputs) Photo courtesy: UNI Doha/UNI: Qatar has successfully facilitated the transfer of $6 billion in unfrozen Iranian funds to bank accounts in Doha, marking a significant milestone in the prisoner swap deal between the United States and Iran. In a development confirmed by sources familiar with the matter, Qatar informed both parties that the funds previously held in Switzerland have now been securely moved to Qatari accounts. This comes as the Iranian Foreign Ministry announces the imminent exchange of prisoners between Tehran and Washington, set to occur Monday. "Both parties have been notified by Qatar that all $6 billion has been transferred from Switzerland to bank accounts in Qatar," the source told the news agency. "A Qatari plane with five US citizens, who were previously detained in Iran, and their two relatives on board is ready to take off to deliver them to Doha," the source also said. Last week, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi said that Tehran would spend $6 billion in funds to be released following the prisoner exchange agreement with the United States wherever the country considers necessary. Earlier that week, a US State Department spokesperson confirmed to Sputnik that Secretary of State Antony Blinken had signed a waiver advancing the prisoner exchange deal with Iran that lifted a hold on $6 billion of Iranian funds, which would be moved from bank accounts in South Korea to Qatar. The US authorities also said that Tehran would be able to spend the fund on humanitarian needs only, while the US would control the spending process. image: Representational Image/Unsplash Canberra/UNI: An alleged stabbing incident at the prestigious Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra has left three individuals hospitalised with injuries. Authorities responded to the incident at the ANU campus in the capital city around 2:45 p.m. local time on Monday, stated reports by state media. Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Policing has confirmed that three individuals were transported to the hospital, with two of them sustaining stab wounds, while the third was allegedly assaulted. One person is currently in custody in connection with the incident. As investigations unfold, both the police and the university have yet to confirm whether those involved were ANU students or staff members. A spokesperson for Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Policing told the ABC that three people were taken to the hospital and that one person was in custody in relation to the incident. In a statement posted on social media, the ANU asked people to stay away from Fellows Oval at its campus in the central Canberra suburb of Acton. The ABC reported that neither the police nor the university were able to confirm if anyone involved in the incident was an ANU student or staff member. Interest in genealogical research has increased with new technological innovations, including online databases, but members of the Buffalo Genealogical Society of the African Diaspora long ago discovered the value of African American funeral programs in all their low-tech glory as rich sources of biographical information for those working on their family trees. The society recently teamed with the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library, University at Buffalo and Western New York Library Resources Council to digitize a community resource that it created called the Funeral Collection project. African-American corridor gets $100,000 federal grant The Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor is the recipient of a large federal grant. This digitized collection includes more than 3,600 funeral programs donated to the society from families, churches and funeral homes across the U.S. All project subjects have a Buffalo connection. Some including Daniel R. Acker Sr., a former president of the Buffalo Branch NAACP who worked on the Manhattan Project, and musician Al Tinney were well known regionally. Most came from more common walks of life. The earliest program is from is from an person born in 1848. This has been a true labor of love that started probably about 1998, Sonia Walker, society president, said this week during an announcement of the digitization program at the Frank E. Merriweather Jr. Library. Walker recalled that, often, African Americans engaged in genealogical research were stymied by the limited resources available to them, as their ancestors had been excluded from obituaries, wedding announcements and other stories carried in local newspapers. We want you to understand that these programs are so very special to our community, she told those assembled at the library. They include, oftentimes, a biography of the person who is being eulogized, their family history, their accomplishments, their descendants, and it is a rich source that we use when we are researching our history. So this was a way of making sure that our history was shared in our community for ourselves. Walker, a longtime educator, recalled that the society was started after she met a local man, Robert M. Davis Jr., online through AfriGeneas, an African American-oriented genealogy group. They were soon joined by others, including Karen Amos and Sharon Holley, the latter a former librarian who, with her husband, Kenneth, operated Harambee Books on the East Side for more than two decades. Walker said the group began meeting every other Saturday at the Kensington branch library until it stopped Saturday hours. The group then moved its meetings to the Merriweather library at 1324 Jefferson Ave., where the physical collection of funeral programs is housed in the William A. Miles Center for African and African American Studies. We come together through the library on every second Saturday of the month, and we bring ourselves and our ideas, and we help each other to research, Walker said. And then, periodically, well sit down and go through these programs. And we have different groups who are alphabetizing, some who are sleeving, some who are who are checking for duplicates. And then, eventually, we get to the portion of the indexing. Dr. Monroe Fordham and Sharon Savannah indexed the first three volumes. Were now working on our indexing and collation of Volume 4, Walker said. Heidi Ziemer, of the Western New York Library Resources Council, said she had long been aware of the Funeral Programs Collection and thought it should be digitized. When there was the possibility of funding it, Ziemer said she reached out to a digitization expert at UB. Other funeral program collections exist around the country, Ziemer said, but the one in Buffalo is probably the largest, with the exception of the collection in Atlanta. That could change with the addition of a fourth volume soon to be digitized, she said. Digitizing takes more than organizing the programs and creating the index. You still have to prepare them for scanning, Ziemer said. You have to create the meta-data, the back-end language, so that the outside viewer can understand and read this and find information that theyre looking for. UB was helpful, she said, underlining that local funding, teamed with state support, is really important for our library, so we can continue to do projects like this and make things as accessible and discoverable to as many people as possible. Photo Courtesy: Pixabay Armed men shot dead a constable of Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) of police in the Jail Road area of Pakistan's Quetta city on Saturday. Officials told Dawn News Head Constable Saeed Ahmed, posted in the CTD, was sitting with his friends outside a shop in Jail Road area when armed men riding motorcycles opened fire and fled from spot. Police said the cop died instantly. FC personnel and police rushed to the site after receiving information about the incident and shifted to the body to the civil hospital for medico-legal formalities, reports Dawn News. Ganesh Chaturthi is a very important Hindu festival that is celebrated across India, especially in Maharashtra, with great devotion. In Maharashtra, Lalbaugcha Raja or King of Lalbaug, located in Putlabai Chawl, is a well-known and most visited Ganesh idol in Mumbai. Every year Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Ganesha, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. He is the symbol of wisdom, prosperity and good fortune. This year Ganeshotsav 2023 will be celebrated from September 19 to September 28. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi 2023 best wishes, messages, images and Whatsapp statuses Giant Ganesha idols are made and beautiful pandals are decorated to celebrate the festival that goes on for 10 days. On the last day of the festival, the idols are taken out in colourful and musical processions and immersed, traditionally, in water. As Vinayak Chaturthi or Ganeshotsav 2023 is just here, sharing Happy Inspiring Ganesh Chaturthi 2023 wishes, messages, quotes and Vinayak Chaturthi WhatsApp status in English to share with your loved ones. So, here are Happy Ganesh Chaturthi 2023 best wishes, messages, images and Whatsapp statuses to share with your friends and family. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi Wishes and messages in English 1. Hope this year is super joyous and prosperous. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi to you and your family! 2. May Lord Ganpati always be by your side in every test of your life. Happy Vinayak Chaturthi 2023! 3. I pray to Lord Ganesha that may you have a prosperous and long life. Happy Vinayak Chaturthi! 4. May the blessings of Shree Ganesha be with you and your family forever! Happy Ganesh Chaturthi 2023! 5. May Lord Ganesha always remove obstacles from your life. Happy Ganeshotsav 2023! 6. A new sunrise, a new start, oh lord Ganesha, keep loving me as your part. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi! 7. Ganpati Bappa Morya! May Lord Ganesha bless you with all the happiness & success. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi 2023! 8. As rains bless the Earth, likewise, may Lord Ganesha bless you with never-ending happiness. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi! 9. May his arrival in each of our homes mark a new beginning in our lives, filling us with joy, hope, confidence, and courage. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi 2023! 10. Vakratunda Mahakaya Surya Koti Samaprabha! Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva-Kaaryeshu Sarvadaa! Happy Ganesh Chaturthi! 11. Let us offer prayers to Lord Ganesh with all our hearts and the best of our intentions to seek his blessings and love for a beautiful life. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi! 12. I pray to God for your prosperous life. May you find all the delights of life, and may your all dreams come true. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi! 13. Wish you a wonderful year ahead in all spheres of life with Lord Ganeshs blessings! Happy Ganesh Chaturthi 2023! 14. May Lord Ganesha remove all obstacles from your path and shower you with his blessings of happiness, prosperity, and good health. 15. Wishing you endless prosperity and wisdom this Ganesh Chaturthi! 16 May Lord Ganesh eliminate all the negativity and obstacles from your life. 17. Let's embrace the spirit of togetherness and goodness this Ganesh Chaturthi. 18. May the divine blessings of Lord Ganesha bring you success and happiness. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi! 19. Sending you warm wishes on Ganesh Chaturthi. May you find success in all your endeavours. 20. May Lord Ganesha bless you with wisdom and success in all your endeavours. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi! Happy Ganesh Chaturthi 2023 best wishes, messages, images and Whatsapp statuses Happy Ganesh Chaturthi Wishes for friends and Family 21. May Lord Ganesha bless our family with prosperity, happiness, and good health this Ganesh Chaturthi. 22. Wishing our family a Ganesh Chaturthi filled with love, togetherness, and countless blessings from Lord Ganesha. 23. May the divine presence of Lord Ganesha fill our home with joy and harmony this Ganesh Chaturthi. 24. On this auspicious occasion, may our family's bond grow stronger, and may all our dreams come true with Ganesha's blessings. 25. Let's celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi as a family, seeking Lord Ganesha's blessings for a bright and successful future. 26. Sending heartfelt wishes to our beloved family members on Ganesh Chaturthi. May our lives be filled with joy and prosperity. 27. May Lord Ganesha remove all obstacles from our family's path and shower us with peace and abundance this Ganesh Chaturthi. 28. On this special day, may our family be blessed with unity, good fortune, and a year filled with positivity. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi! 29. As we welcome Lord Ganesha into our hearts and home, let's pray for the well-being and happiness of every member of our family. 30. May this Ganesh Chaturthi bring immense joy and fulfillment to our family. Let's cherish every moment together and make beautiful memories. Ganesh Chaturthi Wishes for love 31. My love, on this Ganesh Chaturthi, may Lord Ganesha remove all obstacles from our path and fill our lives with boundless love and happiness. 32. Wishing you a joyous Ganesh Chaturthi, my dear. May our love continue to grow stronger with the blessings of Lord Ganesha. 33. As we celebrate this auspicious day, I am grateful for your presence in my life. May our love be as timeless and enduring as Lord Ganesha's blessings. 34. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi, my love! May our love story be filled with laughter, love, and the sweetest memories, just like the festive celebrations. 35. On this special day, I pray to Lord Ganesha for a love that's as strong as his wisdom and as abundant as his blessings. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi, my beloved! 36. As we mark this Ganesh Chaturthi, I want you to know that you are the greatest blessing in my life. May our love shine brighter with each passing day. 37. My heart is filled with gratitude and love as we celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi together. May our journey be blessed with eternal love and togetherness. 38. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi to the love of my life! May our love story be as beautiful and enduring as the legends of Lord Ganesha. 39. On this auspicious occasion, I wish for our love to be as strong and unshakable as Lord Ganesha's devotion. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi, my sweetheart! 40. May Lord Ganesha bless us with a love that's pure, steadfast, and full of joy. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi, my dearest love! Short Happy Ganesh Chaturthi Wishes and Messages 41. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi! 42. Wishing you joy and blessings on Ganesh Chaturthi! 43. May Lord Ganesha shower his blessings upon you. 44. Ganpati Bappa Morya! Happy Ganesh Chaturthi! 45. May this Ganesh Chaturthi bring prosperity to your life. 46. Celebrating the divine presence of Lord Ganesha. 47. Warm wishes on Ganesh Chaturthi! 48. May your life be obstacle-free like Lord Ganesha's path. 49. Sending Ganesh Chaturthi blessings your way. 50. Enjoy the festivities! Ganesh Chaturthi greetings! Happy Ganesh Chaturthi Quotes 2023 51. "May Lord Ganesha remove all obstacles and shower you with success. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi!" 52. "Wishing you a joyful and blessed Ganesh Chaturthi. May the divine blessings of Lord Ganesha be with you always." 53. "May Lord Ganesha bless you with happiness, prosperity, and good fortune. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi!" 54. "On this Ganesh Chaturthi, may you find all the delights of life and may all your dreams come true." 55. "Ganpati Bappa Morya! May Lord Ganesha fill your home with prosperity and happiness." 56. "May Lord Ganesha bring peace, happiness, and success to your life. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi!" 57. "May the divine blessings of Lord Ganesha be with you always. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi!" 58. "Wishing you a year filled with happiness, love, and prosperity. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi!" 59. "May Lord Ganesha bless you with wisdom and knowledge. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi!" 60. "May Lord Ganesha remove all obstacles from your life and bless you with success and happiness." Happy Ganesh Chaturthi 2023 wishes in Hindi #1 Sukh, Samrddhi Aur Samadhan Apke Sath Jude Rahe! Har Din, Har Vaqt, Har Saal Ganapati Bappa, Apke Sath Khade Rahe...! Happy Ganesh Chaturthi! #2 Pag Me Phool Khile, Har Khushi Apako Mile.! Kabhi Na Ho Dukho Ka Samna, Yahi Meri Ganesh Chaturthi Ki Shubhkamna Hai! #3 Dil Se Jo Bhi Mangoge Milega, Ye Ganesh Ji Ka Darbar Hai! Devo Ke Dev Vakratunda Mahakaya Ko, Apne Har Bhakt Se Pyaar Hai...!! #4 Chalo Khushiyo Ka Jaam Ho jaye, Leke Bappa Ka Name Kuch Ache Kam Ho Jaye.! Khushiya Bant Ke Har Jagha, Aaj Ka Din Bappa Ke Nam Ho Jaye..!! #5 Sukha Karta Jay Morya, Dukh Harta Jay Morya.! Krpa Sindhu Jay Morya, Budhi Vidhata Morya..!! Ganapati Bappa Morya, Mangal Murti Morya ..!! Happy Ganesh Chaturthi Images & Posters 2023 #1 Inspiring Vinayaka Chaturthi Wishes #2 Inspiring Vinayaka Chaturthi Wishes #3 Inspiring Vinayaka Chaturthi Wishes #4 Inspiring Vinayaka Chaturthi Wishes #5 Inspiring Vinayaka Chaturthi Wishes #6 Inspiring Vinayaka Chaturthi Wishes #7 Inspiring Vinayaka Chaturthi Wishes #8 Inspiring Vinayaka Chaturthi Wishes For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events "iPhone 15 Book Kiya Kya?" - The buzzword echoing across the tech world and beyond! Once again, the highly anticipated release of the latest iPhone is upon us, and fans are excited! Apple enthusiasts have eagerly fixed their gaze on exclusive pre-booking perks that have the potential to create the buzz even faster than a viral meme! 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One of the shocking statements that Kalam made was that the security officers assigned to protect Malala Yousafzai, who came to the UK for treatment after being shot by the Taliban in Pakistan, called her 'tikka masala'. Screengrab Jas Singh, an advisor to the Sikh Federation, spoke to the BirminghamLive news website and said, YouTube "These shocking allegations of racism made by whistle-blower Ms. Kalam against the West Midlands Police come as no surprise. The Sikh community across the West Midlands has been making such complaints and claims for decades, but all have fallen on the deaf ears of the force. Despite changes in senior officers and meetings with an elected PCC (Police and Crime Commissioner), nothing seems to change other than things getting worse." Singh mentioned that the community has requested West Midlands Mayor Andy Street and PCC Simon Foster to thoroughly investigate and examine the behavior, racist beliefs, and practices within the police force. Kalam, one of only seven female officers in a unit of 235 officers in the UK's second-largest police force, also raised concerns about toxic masculinity and misogyny. She explained that women were often objectified, and male officers frequently used offensive language. "West Midlands Police need to take serious stock of what is happening within the unit. I can only speak from experience. I have lost my career. I am standing up; it is the right thing to do," the 40-year-old told Channel 4. According to Channel 4, the West Midlands Police have acknowledged 75 of Kalam's complaints. unsplash The news channel also stated that the police force confirmed that, as a result of an investigation by the Professional Standards Department into the firearms unit, 16 officers and staff received "low-level sanctions or advice." "Officers and staff in the Firearms Unit work tirelessly, often in the most risky situations, to protect the public and perform their duties with the utmost professionalism, and they are disgusted at any conduct that falls below these standards of professional behavior," West Midlands Police Forces deputy chief constable Scott Green was quoted as saying in BriminghamLive. Green said that the force is working closely with the West Midlands Police Sikh Association and Sikh communities across the region to "understand diverse groups and communities to ensure we treat everyone with dignity and respect". Green said regular meetings with the community and religious leaders are held to discuss and address issues. "There is no place for misogynistic, discriminatory, or disrespectful behavior in policing, and we are working hard to set and reinforce the highest standards," she added. (With agency inputs) For more on news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. An expensive F-35 jet has been lost somewhere in South Carolina following a training mishap. A Marine Corps pilot was flying one of the country's most expensive fighters near Joint Base Charleston on Sunday afternoon when an unknown problem occurred, forcing the pilot to abandon the aircraft and eject. The pilot ejected safely after the mishap involving the jet and was taken to a local medical facility in stable condition, Joint Base Charleston said in a Facebook post. The pilots name has not been released, according to the Associated Press. As per the its last location, the search for the missing aircraft has been focused on two lakes north of North Charleston, US military officials said. AFP via Getty Search on for missing fighter jet Emergency response teams are now working to find the aircraft, an F-35B Lightning II jet. The aircrafts last known position was near Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion, two large bodies of water northwest of the city of Charleston, according to Joint Base Charleston, which asked for the publics help finding the aircraft. A South Carolina Law Enforcement Division helicopter joined the search for the F-35 after some bad weather cleared in the area, Stanton said. Military officials appealed in online posts Sunday for any help from the public in locating the aircraft. Officials are still investigating why the pilot ejected, authorities said. The pilot of a second F-35 returned safely to Joint Base Charleston, Salinas said. The planes and pilots were with the Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 based in Beaufort, not far from South Carolinas Atlantic coast. Were working with @MCASBeaufortSC to locate an F-35 that was involved in a mishap this afternoon. The pilot ejected safely. If you have any information that may help our recovery teams locate the F-35, please call the Base Defense Operations Center at 843-963-3600. Joint Base Charleston (@TeamCharleston) September 17, 2023 If you have any information that may help our recovery teams locate the F-35, please call the Base Defense Operations Center," a post from the Joint Base Charleston read on X, formerly known as Twitter. Jet costs around USD 80 million The jet belongs to Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501, a unit focused on training pilots to meet annual training requirements, according to the units website. The plane, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, cost around USD 80 million. The US Air Force deployed F-35s to NATO's front line to patrol for Russian missiles following the invasion of Ukraine. While each aircraft has various weaponry configurations, the jets have a powerful electronic intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance suite. In a configuration known as "beast mode," which Insider previously reported sacrifices stealth for firepower, F-35s can be equipped with laser-guided bombs on their wings and an AIM-9 air-to-air heat-seeking missile. For more on news and current affairs from around the world please visit Indiatimes News. Rachel Rappaport has faced the challenge of being laid off three times in the past 3.5 years. As a marketer based in New York City, she humorously remarks that she was laid off "before it was cool." She was laid off in March 2020 while working in the events industry. Rappaport was part of the initial wave of employees in the US who lost their jobs as the number of COVID cases surged in the country, as reported by CNBC Make It. In an interview with the publication, the 27-year-old shared that although she can laugh about it now, she recalls telling her friends a little white lie back then, claiming she had only been temporarily suspended and would return to work soon. However, after enduring two more layoffs, one in December 2022 and another in September 2023, Rappaport has become more resilient. She's relieved that discussing layoffs or firings has become a less sensitive topic. "Its kind of crazy how, in just those couple of years, its gone from something nobody talks about to something that everybody has been through or at least knows about," she told CNBC Make It. It has also altered her view of regular 95 jobs. "It is a bit of a false sense of security, the whole 9-to-5 thing," she added. Rappaport remembered that she got a promotion within six months of starting her second job, but unfortunately, the company faced financial difficulties by mid-2022, leading to significant layoffs, including her own. In her third job, Rappaport joined the company as the newest member of a four-person marketing team. "When I started, they were just so relieved because of how hard they were working doing multiple roles," she told the publication. "And then when I started, I felt like the role was multiple roles within one." For approximately nine months, Rappaport received positive feedback at her job, and she didn't perceive any issues with the company. However, on September 5, she was surprised to discover that her role was being eliminated, even though her boss had previously stated that her position was crucial. "I just felt sick," she said. "Its unfortunate for everybody because the person laid off has to find a new job, and the people still there now expect to do more work because they didnt sign up for the same pay." Now, with a stronger resolve, Rappaport is again searching for a job, but this time, she's proceeding with more caution. She's contemplating transitioning from the tech industry to work in a field less influenced by the stock market. She's also exploring job opportunities on an AI-based platform that matches candidates with positions based on the skills and experience listed on their resumes. Furthermore, Rappaport thoroughly researches the companies she's interested in applying to. She checks if they have undergone any layoffs in the past year and examines their LinkedIn page to see if the company's workforce has decreased recently. Unsplash "Even though theyre hiring, to me, thats a big red flag," she said. The 27-year-old is thinking about starting her own marketing consulting business. She plans to work on it evenings and weekends until it becomes her full-time career. For more trending stories, follow us on Telegram. National award winning filmmaker Gaurang Jalan has been invited as a jury member of the 7th Awladna International Forum for Arts of the Gifted from India. There are eight other jury members from the USA, Jordan, Greece, China, Egypt and Palestine. The 7th Awladna International Forum for Arts of the Gifted, which is under the auspices of H.E. President Abdel Fattah El- Sisi, President of the Arab republic of Egypt, in association with Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Social Solidarity, Ministry of Youth and Sports, Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, and National Council for Women, is having its annual film festival from September 22 to 29 in Cairo, Egypt. This Festival is in integration with the Afro-Chinese Arts and Folklore Festival, under the slogan of What a wonderful world! Around 41 Countries are participating in this unique international festival of arts, music and films. The films selected from India in Cairo Festival 2023 are- Salaam Venky (Hindi), Montur Montoh (Assamese), DHH (Hindi/Gujarati), and Giddh -The Scavenger (Hindi). This International Cinema and Arts Festival ,aims for supporting the Gifted and creating a cultural and artistic platform that expresses their creativity, talents, arts, to enhance the process of their societal integration at the local and international levels. Such atmosphere is attained by opening artistic outlets for children from different countries of the world in the fields of cinema and childrens arts, in order to build a cultural bridge that connects different international cultures and works on exchanging creative experiences in order to encourage children and their families to develop skills and awareness about children related issues worldwide. The other jury member from India is Priya Ramasubban. Gaurang Jalan was conferred with the coveted National Award by the President of India for his latest film Avijatrik (The Wanderlust of Apu) for best Bengali Film in September 2022. This film won 27 national and international awards in all. As a producer of movies, he has been associated with Gaurang Films which has produced award winning films feature, documentary and short - in multiple Indian languages (Hindi, English, Bengali, Assamese, Odia and Bhojpuri). The film Safed Haathi (White Elephant) is the recipient of the Golden Lotus for being the Best Childrens Film, Aaj Ka Robinhood (Return of Robinhood) received Special Mention by the UNICEF jury in Berlin Childrens Film Festival, Anokha Moti (Magic Pearl) participated in 22 International Festivals and was widely appreciated. In recent times, Gaurang Films have also embarked on making films in DV format and short films. A throwback photo of Irrfan Khan, Gaurang Jalan and Madhur Bhandarkar Jalan on getting invited as one of the jury members says, It is a matter of great honour to be selected as a member of the international jury panel for Films, on behalf of India. Representing our country makes one feel extremely proud. People in Egypt love Indian film, culture and food. I remember during my last visit to Cairo in 2015, with Amitabh Bachchan, who was there for the Nile festival, people went simply crazy to get a glimpse of him. Amongst the new era stars, they love Shah Rukh Khan. Being ancient civilizations, Indian and Egyptian cultures have a lot of similarities. Sharing the upcoming projects in the pipeline, he added, We are looking forward to an OTT thriller series in Hindi shot in multiple locations on an international canvas, based on a book. Scripting is on for this venture. Besides this, we are looking at a biopic of a famous Indian personality who is one of the most decorated Indians globally of the 20th century. This will be an international project in alliance with a UK based company. Along with these, Gaurang Films are also in discussions with a well known director from Bengal for a Bengali film, and works are in progress for a Hindi childrens film. Along with films, work in art and music fields are also keeping Jalan busy. It is crucial that the guardian is aware of & consents to their daughters decision to wear a hair cover & this choice should be entirely voluntary, free from any external pressure or coercion Centro Culturale Italiano di Buffalo has received the single largest contribution in the organizations history. Benefactor Francis S. Lestingi, professor emeritus of physics and the history of science at SUNY Buffalo State University, bestowed a gift of $600,000 that will be used to pay off the buildings mortgage, allowing the Italian Cultural Center to be debt-free, create an endowment, upgrade technology, boost staff capacity and establish a lecture series in his honor. Anniversary gifts promise even better days ahead for Buffalo's Italian Cultural Center Gifts from New York State and Erie County on Saturday morning made the first anniversary celebration especially happy for Buffalos Centro Culturale Italiano. I was happy to be able to do so, and more importantly, I wanted to do so, said Lestingi, also co-founder of Signs of Gold, which produces hand-crafted, gold-leafed wood signage. Lindsey Lauren Visser, the centers executive director, said the organization was honored and humbled by Dr. Lestingis generosity. The Italian Cultural Center has seen an increase in membership since 2021, the year it moved into a former branch library at Delaware and Hertel avenues in North Buffalo. The number of members jumped from 186 to just under 1,400, Visser said. Fundraiser for Ukraine draws hundreds to Italian Cultural Center A fundraiser at the Italian Cultural Center on Sunday brought at least $8,000 in contributions for the Ukrainian relief effort, according to Lindsey Lauren Visser, the center's deputy executive director. Italian and Sicilian language classes have grown at the center, and there is a waiting list for beginner Italian, she said. Along with cultural programming, the Italian Cultural Center has supported events in Asian, Indian and Hispanic communities, and held a fundraiser to support humanitarian needs for Ukrainians in their war with Russia. The nonprofit organization was founded in 2010 to preserve and promote Italian culture, heritage and language through educational opportunities and community engagement. The two men were allegedly monitoring the Navys facilities with drones The dead bodies of three Armed Forces officers and two interpreters supplied by the foreign ministry for Greece's humanitarian aid mission to Libya were being returned to Greece in a C-27 military transport plane on Monday. The Federal Government (FG) has invited the leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) for more talks over its planned indefinite strike. Recall that on September 1, Joe Ajaero, NLCs President, announced that the Union would go on a two-day warning strike from September 5. Ajaero also said the labour body would be left with no option but to declare an indefinite strike if the government failed to act at the end of its two-day warning strike. Prior to the warning strike, Simon Lalong, Minister of Labour and Employment, appealed for rescind of its decision to go on with the planned action but efforts were unsuccessful. The NLC representatives were also absent at a meeting called by the Federal Government to avert the two-day warning strike. READ ALSO: Naira Scarcity: Prosecute Emefiele, CBN Management Falana Urges FG The meeting was attended by leaders of the Trade Union Congress (TUC). However, Olajide Oshundun, spokesperson for the Labour Ministry in a statement on Sunday, said the government has invited the NLC for another meeting. The Minister of Labour and Employment Simon Bako Lalong has again invited the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC for another meeting over its planned indefinite strike. The Minister who directed the Department of Trade Unions Services and Industrial Relations to convene a meeting with the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) for Monday 18th September 2023 said it was important that the Unions sit with Government to resolve all pending matters to avert further disruption to the economy, the statement read. The NLCs strike, according to the union, is protesting the hardship in the country caused by the petrol subsidy removal. Moreso, the Organised Labour has not announced the day it would commence the indefinite strike. Private part thieves, have at the weekend, taken their operations to the Nigerian Navy Barracks, Akim, in Calabar, where they allegedly snatched the genital of a naval officer. Information Nigeria reports that the shameful activity, have been rampant in the Cross River State capital, for about three weeks The officer (name undisclosed) was said to be manning the entry point into the barracks when a young man, who gave his name as Samuel walked into the barracks and was directed for security scrutiny. READ ALSO: Calabar Residents Cry Out Over Rise In Genitals Disappearance After Handshakes, Hugs Azeez, a naval personnel told Vanguard that, When he got to the sentry point, he was asked whom he was looking for and his mission in the barracks but while he was talking with the sentry officer, the man felt an electric jolt around his genitals and behold, when he touched the area, his private had gone, Following the alarm raised by the naval officer, the young man was accosted and beaten up with instructions to return the missing genital immediately. Meanwhile, the thief, who did not say if he was going to return the missing organ, did not deny being responsible for the disappearance of the organ. Nigerian builders, represented by Ayotunde Philips, the Treasurer of the Nigerian Institute of Building, expressed that Nigerians no longer have confidence in the Nigerian Labour Congress and its incessant strikes. Recall that the Union had given the Federal Government ultimatum on September 1st else theyd embark on an indefinite strike protesting the hardship in the country caused by the petrol subsidy removal and the fluctuating value of the naira. The NLC cautioned that if the government did not take action to alleviate the difficulties faced by people across the country, there was a possibility of a prolonged shutdown of the economy. Philips, speaking with Punch also mentioned that people have realized that once the NLC calls for a strike and their leadership reaches a settlement with the government, they no longer prioritize the needs of the average worker. This, he said was evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, where the NLC did not provide enough support, especially to vulnerable workers. He said: Many NLC leaders ride in big SUVs and own mansions in choice cities like Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt and abroad. Only time will tell if they are only clout-chasing because Nigerians have given up on them. That is why the compliance to the strike is very low. READ ALSO: IGP Directs Lagos CP To Conduct Thorough Probe Over Mohbads Death Also, the President of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria, Aliyu Wamakko, said Nigerians needed to be patient, adding that the association was not going on strike. Subsidy was removed during Buharis administration, but implemented during Tinubus administration. Even before the subsidy was removed, some people were eating that money, and they were talking about going on strike to cause another havoc in the system. The amount of productive time we lose in the strike process is much more than what we gain. Unfortunately, it seems the only language the government understands is strike, but it is the negotiation table we would still come back to. Hence, it is better to not worsen the sector, Wamakko said Meanwhile, the Executive Secretary of the Association of Housing Corporation of Nigeria, Toye Eniola, said the government should be sincere in fulfilling its promises. Everybody is fed up and the strike does not seem to have much effect, because they know that people are on strike for legitimate reasons. Every man is for himself. It is an unfortunate situation because the government is not sincere, and the people going on strike are not sincere. People are indifferent because if they join the strike or not, it would not put any food on their tables, Eniola said. There was riot at Suaniocha community, Awka North Local Government area of Anambra, over the weekend, as some suspected hoodlums invaded the town and opened fire on Police operatives who were on a peacekeeping mission in the area. It was gathered that culprits stormed the town with three tinted Hilux vehicles, one Lexus 330, three shuttle buses, and a Toyota Corolla car and allegedly opened fire on Police officers in the area. INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that while the hoodlums were driving out of the community, one of their vehicles plunged inside a ditch and caught fire around the Obibia bridge axis of the ever-busy road. An eyewitness said that road users, motorists, shop owners, and residents, all ran for safety during the gun duel. According to him: During the exchange of gunfire, the hoodlums jumped into their vehicles to run but one of them who claimed to be a security personnel was caught. Meanwhile, the acting president-general of the community, Friedrich Egwunwa told newsmen that the incident was an attempt by certain criminal elements to wipe out the people of the town who had embraced peace. READ MORE: Bus Driver Knocks Down Police Officer In Anambra He accused one Onyemazi Ngini of being behind the riot together with others who had been on Police wanted list for various atrocities in the community. He appealed to the government and the Inspector General of Police to wade into the community in the interest of the people who were always at the receiving end during any attack. Reacting to the incident, police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga said normalcy had been restored to the area as security agents had been deployed to the community. He called on the residents to cooperate with Police operatives to fish out those involved in the act. Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni (PEJO), the 2024 gubernatorial aspirant of the Labour Party in Ondo State has reacted to the fight between members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) over the distribution of food in the State at the weekend. Recall that the State Women Affairs and Social Development Commissioner, Olubunmi Osadahun, was attacked in Arigidi, Akoko North West area of the State, during palliatives sharing to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal by the government. As reported by Information Nigeria, in a viral video, the Commissioner was seen engaging in an altercation with Olumide Awolumate, the Partys ward Chairman in Arigidi, after which she was rushed to the hospital for medical attention. Reacting, PEJO, who is also the National President of Afeniferes National Youth Council, condemned the action, describing it as a show of shame. According to him, the APC lacked transparency in the distribution of the already insufficient palliatives meant for the masses. He said: We dont know if any of the two APC chieftains was fighting on the peoples behalf or for themselves, but PEJO demands that the government of Rotimi Akeredolu looks into this and ensure that the states residents dont fall victim to the ruling partys childish in-fighting over food. We urge the governor to prevent a repeat of the hiding and hoarding of palliative like the one that happened in 2020 during COVID-19 pandemic. READ ALSO: Ondo Commissioner For Women Affairs Attacked, Injured During Distribution Of Palliatives (Video) Meanwhile, the State APC on Monday, suspended the chairman of the party in Arigidi, Ward 1, Awolumate. Chairman of the Party, Ade Adetimehin, who disclosed the suspension of the ward Chairman, expressed disappointment over the action of Awolumate, describing it as an act capable of jeopardising the image of the State and the APC. Adetimehin alsostated that the party would sit on the matter for further actions. He said, We dont tolerate indiscipline in our party. The erring chairman would be suspended for being involved in such a publicly embarrassing act. I have directed the party chairman in the local government to bring everybody to Akure today ( Monday), and we will deliberate, and appropriate sanction will be meted out where necessary. But the ward chairman would be suspended. We are still wondering what could have pushed him into exhibiting that degree of primitive affront on a highly placed party chieftain and serving Commissioner. The House of Representatives has expressed anger over the sale of 82 vehicles for the sum of N5.8 million over the past 12 years by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). This was as the NIMASA Executive Director, Mr. Chudi Offodile announced the sale during the resumed investigative hearing into the Disposal of public property by the Agencies between 2010 and 2022 to unravel the extent of illegal auctioning of public property, non-remittance of revenue realized into Consolidated Revenue Fund, chaired by Hon. Julius Ihonbvere. According to Offodile, the sale followed due process. However, the chairman of the committee, Hon. Ihonbvere disclosed that the Ad-hoc Committee was in custody of petitions against NIMASA that the vehicles were sold to some officials and staff of the Agency, maintained that the Auctioneers engaged by NIMASA were merely hired to rubber stamp the fictitious insider trading. According to the documents presented and obtained it showed that Peugeot Expert Ambulance with market value of N200,000 was sold at forced liquidation/auction value of N95,000; Honda Civic Saloon Car with market value of N170,000 was sold at N76,500; Toyota Hilux (Grounded) with market value of N300,000 was sold at N140,000; another Toyota Hilux (Accidental) with market value of N200,000 was sold at N96,000 while another Toyota Hilux (Grounded) with market value of N250,000 was sold at N115,000. READ ALSO: Well Reveal Identities Of Oil Thieves House Of Reps. Committee Vows In the same vein, two units of Toyota Hilux which was at the time of inspection in the custody of Carbotage Consultant in Lagos put at N1 million market value, was sold at N470,000 each forced liquidation/auction value; Honda Civic put at N210,000 was sold at N95,000; Honda City put at N190,000 market value was sold at N80,000; among others. Through its office in Abuja, a Toyota Hilux put at N500,000 market value was sold at N245,000; Toyota Avensis put at N300,000 market value was sold at N145,000; Toyota Corolla put at N300,000 market value was sold at N147,000; two units of Honda Civic put at N90,000 market value were sold at N30,000 each; among others. Other lawmakers who spoke during the investigative hearing, demanded for documentary evidence of funds remitted into the CRF account as provided by extant provisions of the Procurement Act, Proceed of Crimes Act, and other known legislations or financial regulations. In his presentation, Mr. Offodile who denied knowledge of the provisions of the Public Procurement Act, 2007 on the remittance of the funds generated from the sale of public assets, however affirmed that the proceed of sales was paid by the Auctioneers into NIMASAs coffers. When asked whether the Agency has a mechanic workshop where faulty vehicles can be repaired, Mr. Offodile answered in the negative. While expressing surprise that most of the vehicles displayed in the document presented to the Ad-hoc Committee didnt show that they are old or not in good condition, Hon. Ihonbvere said: looking at them (pictures of vehicles captured in the documents), some of them are looking new, adding that for Nigerians, a 13 year old Toyota Hilux is not old. Hon. Ihonbvere thereafter narrated how a former Edo State Governor engaged a female mechanic to fix some of the vehicles tagged as unserviceable vehicles and recovered over 100 vehicles while other spare parts were stored. He explained that over 100 vehicles fixed by the female mechanic were deployed to various MDAs, thereby blocking financial leakages. Hon. Ihonbvere specifically expressed concern over the rationale behind the placement of an advert on the 29th March, 2022 calling for a public auction of NIMASA vehicles and sale of all the vehicles on the 30th March, 2022 through forced liquidation/auction. While alleging that the move leaves us with the impression that its a pre-arrangement, the Majority Leader argued that the process contravened the extant Public Procurement Act to dispose public assets within the duration of 24 hours. Hence, the lawmakers requested for list of all the Auctioneers as well as beneficiaries of the vehicles, the original cost of vehicles and invoices, letter of contract awards for auctioning of the assets to the Auctioneers; relevant approvals obtained from Federal Ministry of Works & Housing as well as Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP). One of the lawmakers, expressed worry why the Agency only carried out sales of vehicles and did not have any record on sale of computers and other office equipment within the period under review. Hon. Ihonbvere who requested for the registers of all the assets of NIMASA and other MDAs, disclosed that the asset registers would be computerised in the state-of-art library which is currently under construction within the National Assembly complex, to be commissioned by the end of September, 2023. Aide to former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, Phrank Shaibu, says the claim by the presidency that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) had lifted a visa ban on Nigerians, when it had not, embarrassed the country. Recall that, Ajuri Ngelale, presidential spokesperson, said the Middle Eastern country had lifted the ban after President Bola Tinubu met with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. However, a UAE official contradicted the claims by the federal government. Reacting in a statement on Sunday, Shaibu said the false claim by Tinubus government announcing that UAE had lifted the visa ban imposed on Nigerians is just the tip of the iceberg. Last month, the NNPC claimed to have obtained a loan of $3bn with which it would help stabilise the Naira. We raised the alarm that it was all a ruse to deceive Nigerians. Now, we have been justified as the naira is now approaching $1/N1,000 on the black market. READ ALSO: Forgive My Husband, Obansajos Wife Begs Obas, Yorubas After his trip to the UAE, Tinubu claimed the visa ban had been lifted immediately. Now, they have shifted the goalpost after the UAE authorities revealed that the news was false. This is the sort of embarrassment Nigeria will continue to attract in this season of balablu. The report by FTSE revealed that Tinubus so-called FX unification policy was failing and Nigeria was degraded from frontier market to unclassified. Shaibu said the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government has not put adequate relief in place since the removal of the petrol subsidy. Tinubu removed the petrol subsidy without any plan whatsoever and decided to hand over a few bags of rice to millions of poor Nigerians, he said. Till date, the minimum wage remains N30,000 or $31 per month based on the parallel market exchange rate, he lamented. The Mutter Museum recently announced a new initiative called Postmortem: Mutter Museum. Through town hall forums, workshops, and a forthcoming exhibit, the museum will invite visitors to provide feedback on questions of ethics and consent surrounding its collection of human remains. Right now, we know 10 people absolutely wanted to be in this building and on display, out of 6,600 [biological specimens], executive director Kate Quinn said in an interview with The Inquirer. We certainly know of a vast number of cases, I would say its in the hundreds, of people who did not at all give consent to be here, and many of them are on display today. In Postmortem, Quinn hopes to gather insights from the public and experts to inform her future decisions about whether and how the museum should display these anatomical specimens, some of which were obtained unethically such as through grave robbing and others for which they have very little information. Many were collected in the 1800s and 1900s. The initiative, said Quinn, is an opportunity to make sure that were covering as much of the city and residents here as we should in the conversation about the museum and its future. Advertisement Because events such as next months planned town hall are open to anyone who registers for them, some of the residents whom museum officials will likely hear from are their critics such as the members of Protect the Mutter, a group of devoted followers and former museum staffers who say the new leaderships policies and actions are threatening the uniquely morbid and beloved Philadelphia institution. Some of these critics say the lack of records of explicit consent does not necessarily mean the anatomical specimens were obtained unethically. And even in cases in which they were, the critics say, that is part of medical history and should be aired. Quinn says Postmortem will attempt to do just that. The medical history museum, owned and operated by the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, is conducting an audit of its entire collection, including research about the specimens provenance. Researchers have currently reviewed about 10%, and of that, less than 1% of the people who make up the anatomical specimens gave their informed and enthusiastic consent to be displayed, Quinn said. She projects that when the audit is completed, that number will be closer to 3.5%. The Mutter is world renowned for displaying skeletons, organs, body tissue, and other specimens to showcase rare conditions, such as the livers of conjoined twins Chang and Eng Bunker from the 1800s or the enlarged heart of living donor Robert Pendarvis. The remains on view also expose medical history, like Josef Hyrtls collection of 139 human skulls, which he studied to disprove the racist medical theory of phrenology. A team of 10 experts will guide the two-year Postmortem project in collaboration with Mutter staffers, including a disability activist, an ethicist, medical history experts, community engagement specialists, and someone who studies how museums display Black bodies. In March 2024, Quinn plans to open an exhibit with surveys on which visitors can answer questions about the history of certain specimens. About 20 selected specimens on display will receive new signage detailing how they were obtained and biographical information, with questions prompting visitors to consider whether the acquisition was ethical or whether it should be on display. Postmortem is funded by a grant of $285,500 from the Pew Center for Arts & Heritage. Quinn said planning for this effort began in late 2022, before she decided to remove the bulk of the Mutters online exhibits and popular YouTube channel showing human remains, which led to widespread backlash. The feedback isnt only about what is on view, but how. The museums 19th-century cabinet display, which dates to 1986 when popular Mutter curator Gretchen Worden renovated the space to attract more visitors, is also under review. Quinn plans to ask the public whether the cabinet of curiosities design is still appropriate for the Mutter today, or whether its outdated and should be modernized. She points out that the casework isnt sealed properly and that she hears regularly that it is difficult to see through the glass. (Last month, Quinn was under fire for donating old display cases to a local resale shop, which worried museum fans who believe the cabinets should be preserved.) Depending on the initiatives results, the museum could be subject to major renovations in the future to move away from that aesthetic entirely. Museums have to change. They have to grow. They have to respond with the times, and theres so many different ways to do that, said Quinn. The name Postmortem raises questions of whether the Mutter as Philadelphia knows it is dead. Quinn said its an examination to look back and to see what went right and what went wrong through the years and within this body. She added: Its a fresh start. Were not closing the Mutter. Thats not what this is. The first of three town hall meetings will be held Oct. 17, with registration required. Quinn and the team of experts will be in attendance and plan to offer an open Q&A with a moderator. She expects to confront her vocal critics and hopes to have productive conversations. Anne Hoskins, a photographer based in Hamilton, N.J., and a member of Protect the Mutter, said she and fellow organizers planned to attend the town hall session to see whether museum officials will address the negative criticism theyve received in recent months. A town hall forum will make feedback easier to police, but harder to ignore, said Hoskins. This could easily be another attempt to pacify those with serious concerns, instead of honestly and openly hearing what the community has to say. Will the college heed what they hear? Well see. Note: The Oct. 17 event registration link was not available to share at press time. A Buffalo man pleaded guilty to second-degree manslaughter, admitting that he acted as an accomplice in the fatal shooting of a 17-year-old girl, the Erie County District Attorney's Office said Thursday. Vincent Manirakiza, 20, entered his plea Wednesday before Erie County Court Judge Kenneth Case. He remained held without bail and was scheduled to be sentenced at 2 p.m. Aug. 8. Prosecutors said that on the afternoon of Jan. 25, 2022, Manirakiza and a 15-year-old broke into a home on the 200 block of Koons Avenue through a window. The 15-year-old then shot two teenagers inside the house with an illegal "ghost gun." A 17-year-old girl died and a 19-year-old man suffered a gunshot wound to his arm. The shooter, who is now 16, pleaded guilty in October to second-degree murder and is serving a sentence of 12 years to life in prison. The case was investigated by the Buffalo Police Department Homicide Squad and prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Ryan D. Haggerty of the Homicide Unit and Ryan M. Flaherty of the Felony Trials Bureau. Maki Becker Brian Pollitt, president of TWU Local 234, bought Gatorade for workers out in the heat working on the new trolley railroads in Southwest Philadelphia on July 25, 2023. Read more Sometimes the heat makes you vomit, said Carmen Garcia, a farmworker in the San Joaquin Valley of California. She and her husband spent July in the garlic fields, kneeling on the scorched earth as temperatures hovered above 105 degrees. Her husband experienced such severe fatigue and nausea that he stayed home from work for three days. He drank lime water instead of seeing a doctor because the couple doesnt have health insurance. A lot of people have this happen, Garcia said. There are no federal standards to protect workers like the Garcias when days become excessively hot. And without bipartisan support from Congress, even with urgent attention from the Biden administration, relief may not come for years. Advertisement President Joe Biden in 2021 tasked the Occupational Safety and Health Administration with developing rules to prevent heat injury and illness. But that 46-step process can take more than a decade and might stall if a Republican is elected president in 2024, because the GOP has generally opposed occupational health regulations over the past 20 years. These rules might require employers to provide ample drinking water, breaks, and a cool-down space in shade or air-conditioning when temperatures rise above a certain threshold. In September, OSHA began meeting with small-business owners to discuss its proposals, including actions that employers would take when temperatures rise to 90 degrees. READ MORE: For Philly workers doing some of the hottest jobs, theres no escaping the heat As this summer has broken heat records, Rep. Judy Chu (D., Calif.) and other members of Congress have pushed legislation that would speed OSHAs rule-making process. The bill is named after Asuncion Valdivia, a farmworker who fell unconscious while picking grapes in California on a 105-degree day in 2004. His son picked him up from the fields, and Valdivia died of heatstroke on the drive home. Whether on a farm, driving a truck, or working in a warehouse, workers like Asuncion keep our country running while enduring some of the most difficult conditions, Chu said in a July statement urging Congress to pass the bill. Trade organizations representing business owners have fought the rules, calling the costs of regulations burdensome. They also say theres a lack of data to justify blanket rules, given variation among workers and workplaces, ranging from fast-food restaurants to farms. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, one of the most powerful lobby groups in Washington, argued that such standards are nonsensical because each employee experiences heat differently. Further, the chamber said, measures such as work-rest cycles threaten to directly and substantially impair employees productivity and therefore their employers economic viability. Many heat-related issues are not the result of agricultural work or employer mismanagement, but instead result from the modern employee lifestyle, the National Cotton Council wrote in its response to proposed regulations. For example, air-conditioning makes it more difficult for people to adapt to a hot environment after being in a cold dwelling or vehicle, it said, noting younger workers, who are more used to a more sedentary lifestyle, cannot last a day working outside. The Forest Resources Association, representing forest landowners, the timber industry, and mills, added that heat-related illnesses and deaths are not among the most serious occupational hazards facing workers. They cited numbers from OSHA: The agency documented 789 heat-related hospitalizations and 54 heat-related deaths through investigations and violations from 2018 to 2021. OSHA concedes its data are problematic. It has said its numbers on occupational heat-related illnesses, injuries, and fatalities are likely vast underestimates. Injuries and illnesses arent always recorded, deaths triggered by high temperatures arent always attributed to heat, and heat-related damage can be cumulative, causing heart attacks, kidney failure, and other ailments after a person has left their place of employment. The toll of temperature To set regulations, OSHA must get a grasp on the toll of heat on indoor and outdoor workers. Justification is a required part of the process because standards will raise costs for employers who need to install air-conditioning and ventilation systems indoors, and those whose productivity may drop if outdoor workers are permitted breaks or shorter days when temperatures climb. Ideally, business owners would move to protect workers from heat regardless of the rules, said Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association. We need to do a better job of convincing employers that there is a trade-off between efficiency and sick workers, he said. Garcia and her husband suffered the symptoms of heat exhaustion: vomiting, nausea, and fatigue. But their cases are among thousands that go uncounted when people dont go to the hospital or file complaints for fear of losing their jobs or immigration status. Farmworkers are notoriously underrepresented in official statistics on occupational injuries and illness, said David Michaels, an epidemiologist at George Washington University and former OSHA administrator. Researchers who surveyed farmworkers in North Carolina and Georgia found that more than a third of them had heat illness symptoms during the summers of their studies far higher than what OSHA has registered. Notably, the Georgia study revealed that 34% of farmworkers had no access to regular breaks, and a quarter had no access to shade. READ MORE: Heres what to know about symptoms and treatment for dehydration and heat exhaustion. Even cases in which workers are hospitalized might not be attributed to heat if doctors dont make note of the connection. Many studies link occupational accidents to heat stress, which can cause fatigue, dehydration, and vertigo. In a study in Washington state, farmworkers were found to fall off ladders more often in June and July, among the hottest and most humid months. And in a 2021 report, researchers estimated that hotter temperatures caused approximately 20,000 occupational injuries a year in California between 2001 and 2018, based on workers compensation claims. Heat-related kidney injuries also come up in OSHAs database of workers severely injured on the job, like an employee at a meat processing plant hospitalized for dehydration and acute kidney injury on a hot June day in Arkansas. But research finds that kidney damage from heat can also be gradual. One study of construction workers laboring over a summer in Saudi Arabia found that 18% developed signs of kidney injury, putting them at risk of kidney failure later. In addition to quantifying the injuries and deaths caused by heat, OSHA attempts to attach a cost to them so it can calculate potential savings from prevention. Youve got to measure things, like what is a life worth? Michaels said. To workers and their families, suffering has far-reaching consequences that are hard to enumerate. Medical costs are more straightforward. For example, OSHA estimates the direct cost of heat prostration overheating due to heatstroke or hyperthermia at nearly $80,000 in direct and indirect costs per case. If this seems high, consider a construction worker in New York who lost consciousness on a hot day and fell from a platform, suffering a kidney laceration, facial fractures, and several broken ribs. Putting a price tag on heatstroke Researchers have also tried to tease out the cost to employers in lost productivity. Work moves less efficiently as temperatures rise, and if workers are absent because of illness, and if they have to be replaced, production diminishes as new workers are trained to do the job. Cullen Page, a line cook in Austin, Texas, and a member of the union Restaurant Workers United, works for hours in front of a pizza oven, where, he said, temperatures hovered between 90 and 100 degrees as heat waves blanketed the city in August. Its brutal. It affects your thinking. Youre confused, he said. I got a heat rash that wouldnt go away. Because its so hot, he added, the restaurant has a high employee turnover rate. An adequate hood vent over the ovens and improved air-conditioning would help, he said, but the owners have yet to make upgrades. Via 313, the pizza chain where Page works, did not respond to requests for comment. Page is not alone. An organization representing restaurant employees, Restaurant Opportunities Centers United, surveyed thousands of workers, many of whom reported unsafely hot conditions: 24% of those in Houston, for example, and 37% in Philadelphia. Workers have been exposed to working temperatures of up to 100 degrees after air-conditioners and kitchen ventilators were broken, making it uncomfortable and hard for them to breathe, wrote another group that includes members in the fast-food industry, the Service Employees International Union, in a comment to OSHA. There is no reason to further delay the creation of a standard when we know the scale of the problem and we know how to protect workers. Researchers at the Atlantic Council estimate the U.S. will lose an average of $100 billion annually from heat-induced declines in labor productivity as the climate warms. It costs employers a lot of money to not protect their workers, said Juley Fulcher, the worker health and safety advocate at Public Citizen, an advocacy organization in Washington, that is lobbying for the Asuncion Valdivia bill to allow OSHA to enact regulations next year. For a template, Fulcher suggested looking to California, Maryland, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, the only states with rules mandating that all outdoor workers have access to water, rest, and shade. Although the regulations arent always enforced, they appear to have an impact. After California instituted its standard in 2005, fewer injuries were reported in workers compensation claims when temperatures exceeded 85 degrees. Michaels said OSHA has shown it can act faster than usual when Congress permits it. In the early days of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, the agency rapidly passed rules to prevent doctors, nurses, and dentists from being accidentally infected by needles. A similar urgency exists now, he said. Given the climate crisis and the lengthening of periods of extreme heat, he said, it is imperative that Congress pass legislation that enables OSHA to quickly issue a lifesaving standard. KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces journalism about health issues. Dr. Constance E. Clayton, the longtime School District of Philadelphia Superintendent, has died at 89. Read more Constance E. Clayton never shied away from asking that more be given to Philadelphias children more resources, a better education, higher standards. I dont think anyone else could measure up to what she did for kids, said former Philadelphia Mayor W. Wilson Goode. She is, in my opinion, the best advocate for children this city has ever seen at all. Dr. Clayton, the revered School District of Philadelphia superintendent who was the first Black and first female schools chief in the citys history, died Monday at 89. The cause of death was not given in the districts announcement. Dr. Clayton rose from being a fourth-grade teacher in North Philadelphia to running what was then the countrys fifth-largest school system with more than 200,000 students. She served as superintendent from 1982 until her retirement in 1993. She was the best superintendent this city has known, said Jerry Jordan, the longtime Philadelphia Federation of Teachers president, who considered Dr. Clayton a friend and mentor. Born in North Philadelphia, Constance Elaine Clayton was born to Levi and Willabell Clayton in 1933, and she attended Girls High, Jay Cooke Junior High, and Dunbar Elementary, a segregated school at the time. She earned degrees at Temple University and the University of Pennsylvania to spend her career as a Philadelphia educator. Dr. Clayton was raised by her mother and her grandmother, whom she said emphasized character, discipline, and love. In my house, you were expected to excel, Dr. Clayton said in 1982. Advertisement READ MORE: Still sharp at 83, former Philly schools chief Constance Clayton to receive D.C. honor Dr. Clayton began her career teaching at the now-closed William Henry Harrison public school in North Philadelphia in 1955, and by 1972 had become director of early childhood education citywide. Mayor Bill Green named her superintendent in 1982. John White Jr., the former state representative and City Council member, helped close the deal to make Dr. Clayton superintendent, driving back and forth as messenger between Greens house in Chestnut Hill and Dr. Claytons house on Sedgwick Street in East Mount Airy. White knew Clayton through church, St. Paul Baptist; her mother gave him voice lessons, and Dr. Clayton called White John Junior. She was a giant, said White. When you think about Philadelphians having a place in the history of this city, she has to be at the top of the list. We talk about Richardson Dilworth and Joe Clark, but what she did to promote public education and to prepare professionals for leadership has not been seen since. In 1982, Dr. Clayton told The Inquirer, I dont mind delegating responsibility, but I dont abdicate my own. Theres something I say to my staff all the time: I ask them to treat and teach the children of other people as if they were their own. Dr. Clayton brought cultural responsiveness to the citys curriculum; as a social studies curriculum specialist, she ensured that African American history was taught. As superintendent, she ensured world cultures were taught. During Dr. Claytons tenure as schools chief, the district had no labor strikes. It ran no deficits. Dr. Clayton standardized curriculum, grading, and promotion criteria. She ended a system of patronage appointees, saw test scores rise citywide, and won the confidence of the business community. She could be no-nonsense, for sure. Jordan, who taught in the district before becoming a PFT staffer, sat across the table from Dr. Clayton many times. When you were in a meeting with her and you saw her take a finger and push the glasses up closer to her eyes, you knew somebody was going to get it, said Jordan. Shelly Yanoff, the longtime former director of Children First, then called Public Citizens for Children and Youth, said Dr. Clayton didnt suffer fools easily. She was strict, and she was strong, and she would listen to you, but only if you were serious. Not everyone liked Dr. Clayton, Yanoff said, but everyone respected her. No one questioned her motivation, which is really saying something about a public figure, said Yanoff. Reginald Streater, Philadelphia school board president, said he thinks a lot about what Dr. Clayton did for city schools, and for him as a student who experienced homelessness, then went to work in restaurants after graduating from Germantown High School. Eventually, he made it to and through college, and law school, and got appointed to the school board. The education Streater received in city schools, and his success, happened because of Dr. Claytons efforts, he said. She was a hero, Streater said. Ive been impacted by her personally, and now its incumbent on all the stewards of public education to get this right. Formal and eloquent, Dr. Clayton was considered by some as autocratic, but she usually didnt mind the pushback. On days when closing school because of bad weather was a question, Dr. Clayton instructed bus drivers to navigate the hills of Manayunk to determine whether the roads were passable. They called me No Close Clayton, " she said in 2017. Tony B. Watlington Sr., Philadelphias current superintendent, has said she quickly became a mentor to him during his time in Philadelphia. In fact, Dr. Clayton provided an impetus for the district to buy new curriculum for all students in math, English language arts, and science. Prior to this year, different schools used different curricula. READ MORE: Paid parents, year-round school, new curriculum, and swimming instruction: Heres Phillys 5-year school roadmap Clayton, Watlington has said, told him, Young man, our children are transient, the curriculum matters, Watlington said. Watlington said it was a high honor to get to know Dr. Clayton, and that the district will memorialize her. She was the embodiment of a true educator and humanitarian due to her dedication to improving the lives of children in education, Watlington wrote in a tribute to Dr. Clayton. I made every decision based on, Was it good for our kids? Dr. Clayton said in a 2017 interview, shortly before U.S. Sen. Bob Casey honored her in the Senate as an African American whose contributions made Pennsylvania better. After her retirement, Dr. Clayton continued to care deeply about Philadelphias children, and to keep current on trends in education. She received multiple honorary doctorates. Robin Cooper, president of the Commonwealth Association of School Administrators, the districts principals union, called Dr. Clayton an iconic figure. Dr. Clayton, Cooper said, was a champion not just of students and teachers, but of principals; she continued mentoring principals well after she left the district. Howard Stevenson, the Constance Clayton professor of urban education at the University of Pennsylvanias Graduate School of Education, kept in close touch with Dr. Clayton, who was interested in the impact of artificial intelligence on education. She cared about science and technology, and felt strongly that Philadelphias students needed to be well prepared for an increasingly sophisticated future. Dr. Clayton was also worried that people werent learning about the importance of voting, given whats happened in the last several years, Stevenson said. She was smart as a whip. She could read between the lines; she was used to dealing with challenging politicians who wanted to push her in one direction or the other. Mayor Jim Kenney, who joined City Council in January 1992, the year before Dr. Clayton retired, said, She was an excellent leader and trailblazer who worked tirelessly to provide quality education to our citys children. Though her life centered on education, art was another major passion. Dr. Clayton grew up going to museums, and eventually she amassed a significant collection of works by Black artists, many of which she eventually donated to the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in 2019. Dr. Clayton also served on the board of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and donated funds to provide opportunities for Black students to work at the museum as a precursor to careers as curators or educators. For a time, Dr. Clayton and her mother ran an antiques consignment shop in Chestnut Hill. She was also active in the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Information about services and survivors has not been released. Oyewumi Oyeniyi, 17, a senior at Cristo Rey High School, will be the Philadelphia Youth Poet Laureate. Poetry is not something thats gradable, its abstract, said Oyeniyi. Poetry is limitless. Read more Oyewumi Oyeniyi writes poems the way she breathes: naturally. Sometimes they help the 17-year-old senior at Cristo Rey High School in North Philadelphia process the world around her or parse emotions. Sometimes they celebrate who she is a Black Philadelphian who is also Nigerian and Liberian, the child of immigrants, someone on an upward trajectory but keenly aware of the trauma that surrounds her. And Monday, shell be the citys Youth Poet Laureate announced at the Free Library of Philadelphia by Mayor Jim Kenney and a host of dignitaries with a platform to share her work and amplify the voices of other young people. When Oyeniyi got the call that shed won the honor, she thought she was being pranked, she said. She was being recognized for something so personal, so vulnerable, so essential to who she is? Advertisement Poetry is not something thats gradable, its abstract, said Oyeniyi. Poetry is limitless. So is she. But her path hasnt always been easy. Born in New York, Oyeniyi came to Philadelphia when she was a toddler, but we moved around a lot, because we had to. Her family life was sometimes complicated. Her parents divorced, and family members struggled with mental health issues. Her grandmother died of cancer, a little brother is frequently hospitalized with asthma we have the ambulance on speed dial, she said. When sirens are your lullaby, when your parents are fighting, when kids are getting thrown out of the house, I can sit down, read, write a poem, breathe, said Oyeniyi, who now lives in Lawndale, in the Northeast. And though most of her family doesnt understand her call to poetry in her West African community, she says its not a big thing, people dont think were capable of that, although were a very diverse and talented people, were not given the chance they know its important to Oyeniyi. After her mother heard the Youth Poet Laureate news, she sang and danced around the house. My mom was ecstatic, she said. She just knows its a privileged position. When Oyeniyi was younger, she liked reading simple poems, the ones she read in school, rhyming and uncomplicated. Later, she grew fascinated by more complex forms. Ive always been a writer; Ive always been writing something, said Oyeniyi. Theres haikus and sonnets, but you dont have to fit into that box. Its a way to detox from everything thats going on in my life. Cristo Rey is the first school shes been able to attend for four years straight, and shes thrown herself into it, working as a student journalist, participating in mental-health advocacy work, winning leadership prizes. She won the African American Recognition Award from the College Board, and she aims to propel her accomplishments into a college degree: her Harvard application is already complete, and shes also applying to Johns Hopkins and some state schools. She wants to double-major in psychology and creative writing, and hopes to become a psychiatrist someday. Her goals are ambitious, but Oyeniyi is confident. When people think of Ivy League, they dont think of kids like me. Helpfully this can help me open the door for other people, she said. And when she does, shell keep writing about the things that people dont want to talk about sexual assault, being queer in a family that doesnt accept it, being big and dark-skinned, or a complex person from a community many people dont understand. During her year as Youth Poet Laureate, Oyeniyi wants to use her platform to lift up the stories of transgender youth and those experiencing homelessness. A lot of the time we dont acknowledge the lives of those going through rough times because we are afraid to see ourselves reflected in them, and I think its time we realize that is because we easily could be them and that not everyones journey is black and white, Oyeniyi said. This is especially true when you consider systemic barriers and the history of them. It takes zero dollars to recognize someones humanity and that is exactly what I plan to do for the homeless community at large but especially homeless trans youth during my time in this position. El Busesito is Philadelphia's first-ever mobile preschool and is run by the Norris Square nonprofit Xiente. Read more Children have only about 1,800 days from birth to the start of kindergarten. A Norris Square nonprofit wants to make the most of that time. Its rolling out a specially equipped van to provide mobile preschool classes for low-income children in West Philadelphia, scheduled to start the week of Sept. 25. The service, dubbed El Busesito (little bus), is the first of its kind in the city, and is likely the only one in the state, according to Michelle Carrera, executive director of Xiente, formerly the Norris Square Community Alliance, in Kensington. This is prekindergarten education for the kids being taken care of by grandmothers and neighborhood ladies in their homes, Carrera said. Advertisement Such children often dont have the opportunity to attend preschool classes, and their informal childcare givers family, friends, or neighbors typically arent able to provide the kind of preparation youngsters need to be ready for kindergarten. By the time these kids hit kindergarten, theyre already behind, said Carrera, 45, who grew up in poverty in the projects of San Juan, Puerto Rico. The $500,000 Busesito project expected to expand to Northeast Philadelphia and other areas is not funded by the city. Neither is it part of the School District of Philadelphia, or a charter school, or a licensed day-care center. Its being underwritten by the William Penn Foundation as well as by Vanguard. Instruction is based on curriculum provided by Learning Without Tears, a Maryland-based educational company. A good amount of children in Philadelphia are being cared for by informal providers in their neighborhoods while parents work, said Kellie Brown, senior program officer at the William Penn Foundation. For the sake of equity, we wanted the children to be ready for kindergarten. Families of the students, ages 3 to 5, will not be charged a fee. Theyll receive two-and-one-half hours of instruction a day, two days a week. Focus will be on numbers, letters, colors, and shapes. The program will start with 32 children. The nonprofit has already contacted caregivers in the neighborhood about the van. Modeled after mobile preschool vehicles in Colorado, the van is retrofitted to include desks, chairs, and shelving. It will be parked on the properties of schools, churches, and community agencies, Carrera said, which will provide children places to use the bathroom. Xiente is partnering with New York-based ParentChild+, a national organization that works to bolster early literacy and school readiness through home visits in high poverty, marginalized communities, according to Malkia Singleton Ofori-Agyekum, the nonprofits Pennsylvania state director. Our goal is increasing parent-child verbal interaction and school readiness skills, Ofori-Agyekum said. ParentChild+ is working locally with Public Health Management Corporation, a Philadelphia nonprofit. Twice a week, Ofori-Agyekum said, early-learning specialists are sent to homes bearing a book or toy as both a gift and a model to help parents communicate more effectively with their children, and to get youngsters better prepared for academia. Beyond preschool, Xiente is expecting to initiate mobile services next year to help people in low-income communities deal with taxes and personal finances. Having served the Kensington area for around 40 years, Xiente is finding that rapid gentrification is pushing out people in poverty, with neighborhood median household incomes doubling from around $20,000 to $40,000 in just three years, according to Carrera. We now have to look beyond Norris Square to help people, she added. Our focus is poverty. And El Busesito will be in West Philadelphia, because thats where the need is. Temple University for the first time broke the top 100 list for national universities under revamped U.S. News & World Report rankings released Monday. The school tied for 89th place, up from 121 last year, and the boost comes following a tumultuous year for the Philadelphia university, one that saw its president resign, a six-week graduate student worker strike, and the shooting death of an on-duty university police officer. It was one of the largest jumps among local universities in that category. The large swings in part can be attributed to major changes in the criteria the news magazine uses to rank schools, which the magazine called the most significant methodological change in the rankings history. It follows mounting criticism of the rankings by some colleges and universities, which have stopped participating, though the news magazine has continued to rank them. Advertisement Were really gratified, thrilled, said JoAnne A. Epps, acting president of Temple. It is thrilling because its not something we pursued. It is gratifying because it really reflects U.S. News change in methodology that emphasizes and rewards what Temple has been devoted to for years. Heres a closer look at what U.S. News changed, how other local schools ranked, and what Temple has to say about its rise in the national university category. To see how local colleges in other categories fared, check out the U.S. News site. How did this years methodology change? This years rankings put increased importance on outcomes how well schools do at graduating students from varying backgrounds, including first-generation college students, with manageable debt and post-graduate success, U.S. News notes. More than 50% of a schools ranking relates to those measures. The significant changes in this years methodology are part of the ongoing evolution to make sure our rankings capture what is most important for students as they compare colleges and select the school that is right for them, Eric Gertler, executive chairman and CEO of U.S. News, said in a statement. READ MORE: At Temple University, enrollment drop was an unintended but welcome consequence Five factors were removed from the rankings: Class size, faculty with terminal degrees, alumni giving, high school class standing, and the proportion of graduates who borrow federal loans. What other local universities saw double-digit jumps in ranking? Gwynedd Mercy University rose 71 places, to 260 on the list of over 400 schools. It was the largest jump of any university in the region and the sixth-largest jump nationally. West Chester University, which finished 209, went up 40 places. Rutgers-New Brunswick placed 40th, tied with the University of Washington and Tufts University. Thats up 15 spots and the first time it broke the top 40, according to U.S. News, which said Rutgers benefited from the rankings increased emphasis on how well schools did enrolling and graduating students from economically diverse backgrounds. READ MORE: Penns law and medical schools climb in U.S. News rankings, despite decisions to withdraw from them Locally, Rutgers-Camden advanced 29 spots to 98. Nearby Rowan University, also in New Jersey, advanced 30 spots to 163. Pennsylvania State University jumped 17 spots, to 60. Meanwhile, the University of Delaware went up 13 to 76, and Stockton University rose 22 spots to 159. Princeton topped the list again, while the University of Pennsylvania finished sixth, up one spot from last year. Drexel increased seven spots to 98th while La Salle University remained at 201. What local universities ranked worse this year? Villanova finished 67th, down 16 spots from last year. This years rankings show just how volatile rankings can be, the university said in a statement. We believe that the Villanova experience is so much more than one number. There are numerous other indicators from placement rates and starting salary to long-term career success that illustrate the value and academic excellence of a Villanova education. Thomas Jefferson University fell 15 spots to 142. Immaculata University was down 31 spots to 280, and Widener University was down nine spots to 227. Why have rankings been controversial? U.S. News rankings in recent years have become contentious, as some schools have been accused of submitting false data and others have come to question the worth and accuracy of the process. Some medical and law schools, including those at Penn, have withdrawn from the rankings, citing flawed methodology. Columbia, Colorado College, and Bard College, according to the New York Times, also withdrew from the undergraduate rankings earlier this year. U.S. News has defended its rankings, at the same time making adjustments. The rankings also have been highlighted in criminal probes and lawsuits. Last year, Moshe Porat, the former dean of Temples business school, was sentenced to 14 months in federal prison for his role in a scheme to lie to boost the schools ranking. That rankings scandal at Temple spawned a host of reforms, including a data verification unit that is tasked with thoroughly vetting information before it is released. And Rutgers Universitys business school in lawsuits last year was accused of submitting false statistics to U.S. News, allegations it has denied. Despite the controversy, college officials recognize that many families still turn to the rankings for information when choosing a school. What led to Temples jump in the rankings? Gregory N. Mandel, Temples provost, attributed Temples new spot to U.S. News increased focus on outcomes, including graduation rates and social mobility. The university also benefited from the magazines look at faculty publications and citations, highlighting the strength of the teaching staff, he said. All of those outcome measures are measures in which we tend to do very well, he said. So the increase in the rankings is due to them recognizing strengths that Temple has around being an opportunity for students from diverse backgrounds to get an exceptional education. In particular, Temple placed fifth of the top 100 universities in the graduation rate performance category, which looks at how much better students from certain backgrounds do than expected, Mandel said. Factors that the magazine considered included spending per student, the proportion of undergraduates receiving federal Pell grants geared toward lower-income students, and first-year students standardized test scores and high school class rank, as well as the proportion of undergraduates who are first-generation students. That is a huge point of pride because that is what we try to do, Mandel said, create opportunity for students of promise. He added that Temples incoming class is the most racially and ethnically diverse in the schools history. Temples Fly in Four program that provides students with academic counseling, guaranteed course offerings, and in some cases financial aid to help them graduate in four years also has helped the schools ranking, Mandel and Epps said. The university recently admitted its 10th cohort to the program, Epps said. U.S. News decision to drop alumni giving from consideration also helped Temple, they said. Public universities tend to have lower alumni participation rates than private universities, Mandel said. Given issues with the rankings, will Temple tout its new place? There are no plans to promote the rankings on billboards, Temple said. Mandel said he encourages students and families to fully understand rankings. Rankings are only measuring what they decided to measure, he said. Some of those factors are going to be really important for certain students and families and others less so. So Temple, too, will be thoughtful about how it chooses to use the rankings, he said. Epps said she understands that some audiences, such as international students, are heavily influenced by rankings, given how far away they are from the campus. They have a place and we respect that, she said. So while keeping it secret or refusing to talk about it wouldnt be the right approach, were going to have to think carefully about how to use this information. Beekeeper Eric Schoefer sizing up the bee swarm that latched onto Opera Philadelphia's rental truck on May 7, 2023. Read more When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. When life gave Opera Philadelphia a swarm of bees, they made honey, which will be mixed into cocktails during its Festival O23, beginning Thursday. Where do we bee-gin: On May 7, as the company prepared for the last performance of La boheme at the Academy of Music, its rental truck pulled up along Locust Street near Broad, awaiting the sets that would be loaded in after the final curtain. Onlookers noticed that a swarm of bees had latched onto the top of the truck. Advertisement Opera company workers backstage began buzzing with ideas about what to do. It was a half-hour before showtime, said Shannon Eblen, the companys content director. We had two hours to remove those bees. Someone realized that Eric Schoefer, 60, a dancer/choreographer with strong ties to the local arts community, is a beekeeper. They tracked him down at a Philadelphia Beekeepers Guild conference in Chestnut Hill, fittingly. Schoefer made a beeline for the Academy with his equipment. As Eblen posted video on social media set, of course, to Rimsky-Korsakovs Flight of the Bumblebee Schoefer went to work, clambering up on the truck and setting his bee box on the roof. He easily brushed the bees into the box. Why did they swarm? One of their goals in that time period in the spring is that they want to swarm as a superorganism and reproduce making one, two, three new colonies in a year, said Schoefer, who runs Cresheim Valley Honey in Mount Airy. Its unclear why this swarm landed on a truck rumbling through Center City or during an opera by Puccini and not, say, Bizet. Its usually a bush, though it can be odd things, like a mailbox or a stop sign in urban environments, and why they picked this truck going by, I just dont know, Schoefer said. Thats the fascinating thing. The week before, he said, he caught a swarm in a particular bush outside a house in Radnor that for some reason appears to be a magnet for bees. Swarms are seldom a challenge for a beekeeper because the bees are in a desperate mode to find a new home, Schoefer said. They just dont have a whole lot of energy that they can spend on trying to defend themselves. Theyve got to find a new home. If it starts raining, theyre done. Inside the Academy, while Mimi desperately looked for Marcello during Act III, Opera Philadelphia workers cheered as the bees were corralled and secured in the box. Schoefer drove the bees to his place, where he dubbed them the Opera Swarm. The sets were loaded and the truck drove off, bee-free. Theres another final act to this operetta. You might say it aint over till the fat lady stings. The Opera Swarm produced honey, and Eblen got the idea to divert some of it to be mixed into a signature cocktail served to opera lovers this fall at Opera Philadelphias Festival O23. Tentatively named Opera Buzz, the cocktail also contains elderflower gin, tequila reposado, and lemonade. Starting Thursday, they will be served at the Academy of Music, Wilma Theater, and Suzanne Roberts Theater, where the company is staging operas during the festival. We love to find creative ways to connect opera to the city, Eblen said. In this case, the hive mind came through. The Phillies' Charlie Manuel, shown here at a game against the Boston Red Sox in September 2019, is recovering from a stroke that occurred Saturday. Read more The Phillies say that former manager Charlie Manuel got treatment immediately after experiencing a stroke Saturday at a hospital in Florida. Thats a good sign. Prompt treatment for a stroke improves the odds that the person will recover without significant disability. Because Manuel was already in the hospital for a different procedure, that means expert stroke care likely was close at hand. By Sunday, the team said his condition had improved. But Manuel, 79, probably will have to undergo an extended rehabilitation program to regain as much brain function as possible. Advertisement For a refresher course on strokes and why they can occur in a hospital despite all the nurses, doctors, and high-tech equipment nearby we spoke to Steven Messe, a neurologist at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. A professor at Penns Perelman School of Medicine, Messe has been working on a solution to a long-standing problem in the field of stroke care: While Manuel received prompt treatment, according to the Phillies, many others are not so lucky. For a variety of reasons, in-hospital strokes sometimes are not detected until hours after they occur. READ MORE: Want to share some thoughts about what you just read? Please fill out this survey. What type of stroke did Charlie Manuel have? There are two main types of strokes. One is a hemorrhagic stroke, in which a blood vessel ruptures in the brain. The other is an ischemic stroke, in which a clot blocks the flow of blood to part of the brain. In both cases, without prompt treatment, brain cells start to die. Ischemic strokes, the kind Manuel had, according to the Phillies, account for most strokes in the United States nearly 90% of the 800,000 strokes that occur each year, the CDC says. That type of stroke can be treated with medication. It also can be treated with a procedure called a thrombectomy, in which a physician carefully removes the blood clot with a catheter that is inserted through an artery into the patients brain. Thats the procedure John Fetterman underwent in May 2022 during his U.S. Senate campaign. Manuel may have had the same procedure on Saturday, to judge from the limited details provided by the Phillies, Messe said. The hospital was able to tend to Charlie immediately and subsequently remove a blood clot, the team said. How common are in-hospital strokes? An estimated 4% to 17% of strokes occur in patients who are in the hospital. The exact number is unclear, as these incidents are thought to be under recognized and underreported, according to a 2015 review in JAMA Neurology. These in-hospital strokes can be caused by clots or other vascular debris that break loose during surgery or other medical procedures. The Phillies did not say what type of procedure Manuel was undergoing when he had his stroke on Saturday. Why some in-hospital strokes are not detected right away Some in-hospital strokes are not detected until hours after they occur. Such delays in detection can be caused by a variety of factors, Penns Messe said. One is simply that the patient is lying in bed. As a result, visitors and even trained medical providers may not immediately recognize if the patients bodily movements are impaired a possible sign of stroke. When people have a stroke while at home, on the other hand, family members may notice immediately if they have trouble walking or speaking. In-hospital stroke detection also can be delayed for patients who are sleepy and uncommunicative as they emerge from being under anesthesia. Thats normal behavior for someone waking up after surgery, but an inability to communicate also can be a sign of stroke. To make sure that isnt the case, anesthesiologists typically ask their patients to wiggle their fingers and toes upon awakening from surgery, Messe said. They may pick it up right away, he said. But it may be hours later. To address the problem, Messe and others at Penn have developed a wristband-mounted stroke monitor that is expected to undergo trials in the next few months. The device, to be made by a Penn start-up called Neuralert, is designed to identify strokes by detecting asymmetrical movement. Poisonous extract of yellow oleander has been found in weight-loss supplements that are labeled as containing a different plant called tejocote, poison-control experts at Rutgers University say. A 23-month-old New Jersey toddler was rushed to the hospital after ingesting the product. Read more A New Jersey toddler began vomiting after chewing on a product that was labeled as tejocote, an herbal supplement that is widely marketed online as a weight-loss aid. Alarmed, the parents of the 23-month-old girl rushed her to the hospital, where emergency physicians discovered she also had low blood pressure and an abnormal heart rhythm. Tests later revealed that the product likely contained the extract of a different plant that wasnt listed on the label: yellow oleander. READ MORE: We want to hear your thoughts about this and other health-related articles. Please fill out our Eds and Meds survey. Advertisement Not that the child shouldve been chewing on tejocote, but yellow oleander is definitely a big cause for alarm, said Diane Calello, executive and medical director of the New Jersey Poison Control Center at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. Yellow oleander contains a toxic substance that can disrupt the heart rhythm. Calello and her colleagues reported the girls case Thursday in a weekly publication from the CDC. The child recovered and went home from the hospital after nearly three days, the report said. The authors also reported their results from testing a sample of 10 tejocote products that they purchased online. (The authors did not test the product from the actual bottle that the girls parents had purchased, but two of the 10 were from that same manufacturer.) Not one of the 10 products actually contained tejocote, yet nine contained yellow oleander, the study authors found. Risky supplements Calello said the findings underscore the risks of purchasing supplements, which are more loosely regulated than drugs and dont always contain what they claim on the label. Even if they do contain whats listed on the label, those ingredients do not necessarily achieve the goals claimed by manufacturers, she said. Another danger is that some supplement bottles are not child-resistant, Calello said. It is unclear whether the bottle in the New Jersey case was child-resistant, but the episode is a reminder that few packages are a match for a curious toddler. It only takes half a second, she said. The girl described in the study went to the hospital in September 2022. Upon finding she had low blood pressure and abnormal EKG readings, emergency physicians called one of Calellos colleagues at the poison center. Having heard of similar cases involving products that were labeled as tejocote, the poison-center official urged the hospital to test the girl for the family of substances that includes the one found in yellow oleander. Bingo. She tested positive, so physicians immediately administered an antidote. Her blood pressure and heart rhythm returned to normal, but she suffered a relapse 12 hours later. After a second dose of the antidote, a type of antibody, the girl recovered for good, and eventually was sent home, Calello said. The toxic component of yellow oleander is from a family of substances called cardiac glycosides. Another member of that family is digoxin, which in controlled doses can be beneficial for patients with certain heart conditions, she said. But toddlers, no way. AUSTIN, Texas Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton was fully acquitted Saturday of corruption charges in a historic impeachment trial, a resounding verdict that reaffirms the power of the GOPs hard right and puts an indicted incumbent who remains under FBI investigation back into office. The outcome demonstrated Paxtons enduring durability in Americas biggest red state after years of criminal charges and scandal. And more broadly, it delivered a signature victory for the Texas GOPs ascendant conservative wing following a trial that gave a rare window into divisions among Republicans nationally heading into 2024. Accused of misusing his office to protect a campaign contributor, Paxton emerged from Texas first impeachment trial in nearly a half-century both politically intact and back at a job that has won him conservative admirers across the U.S., including former President Donald Trump. Paxton did not attend most of the trial and was not in the Senate when the verdict was read. Advertisement Today, the truth prevailed. The truth could not be buried by mudslinging politicians or their powerful benefactors, he said in a statement. Ive said many times: Seek the truth! And that is what was accomplished. More than three months after an overwhelming impeachment in the Texas House where Republicans have a solid majority Paxton was just as convincingly acquitted by Senate Republicans who serve alongside his wife, State Sen. Angela Paxton. Angela Paxton was not allowed a vote in the trial. But she attended all two weeks of the proceedings, including one dramatic moment when a woman was called to publicly testify about an affair she had with Ken Paxton. The woman ultimately never took the witness stand, but her relationship with Paxton was central to a case that accused Texas top lawyer of going to potentially criminal lengths to help a local real estate developer named Nate Paul, who was under FBI investigation at the time. The voting to acquit Paxton one-by-one on 16 charges of misconduct, bribery, and corruption took more than an hour. Needing at least nine GOP senators to cross party lines, impeachment managers never got more than two on any one charge. Onlookers in the Senate gallery for the verdict included three of Paxtons former deputies who reported him to the FBI in 2020 and testified in the trial. As the acquittals stacked up, one of them left midway through the verdict. When the voting finally finished, Angela Paxton walked over to the defense table and hugged her husbands lawyers. Democratic State Sen. Nathan Johnson described nearly eight hours of deliberations among the 30 senators as a hard and seemingly sincere process. And then it collapsed, he said. Johnson said it eventually became clear there would not be enough votes to convict and that it may have led some senators to change their minds. When enough people fall away from conviction, it exposes any remaining Republican to very strong attack from the right, Johnson said. We reached the wrong result and it was the result of political pressures. Another Democrat, Sen. Royce West, said the deliberations were not combative. It was fluid, he said. The outcome far from ends Paxtons troubles. He still faces trial on felony securities fraud charges, remains under a separate FBI investigation, and is in jeopardy of losing his ability to practice law in Texas because of his baseless attempts to overturn the 2020 election. Eight of Paxtons former deputies reported him to the FBI in 2020 over his relationship with real estate developer Paul, setting off a federal investigation that remains ongoing. Federal prosecutors investigating Paxton took testimony in August before a grand jury in San Antonio , according to two people with knowledge of the matter who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of secrecy rules around the proceeding. Paul was indicted in June on charges of making false statements to banks. He has pleaded not guilty. Testimony in the trial included a former Texas Ranger, who said he warned Paxton he was risking indictment in trying to help Paul pursue claims of wrongdoing by federal agents and a judge. But reelected twice, including last November, Paxton has remained politically resilient despite the legal troubles and dysfunction in his office. After starting his career in the state legislature as a Tea Party insurgent, Paxton has elevated his national profile by rushing his office into polarizing courtroom battles across the U.S., winning acclaim from Trump and the GOPs hard right. Shortly after the verdict, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott welcomed Paxton back to work without reservations. Attorney General Paxton has done an outstanding job representing Texas, especially pushing back against the Biden Administration, Abbott said. I look forward to continuing to work with him to secure the border and protect Texas from federal overreach. Patrick Iannone, 21, with his attorney John Tumelty. Iannone appeared at a hearing Monday in Cape May County Court House. He is accused of accused of punching Fox 29s Bob Kelly in the face at a Sea Isle City pub July 30. Read more CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE, N.J. The 21-year-old accused of punching Fox 29s Bob Kelly in the face at a Sea Isle City pub July 30 whistled on his way out of the courthouse Monday, accompanied by his mother, a retired Sea Isle police captain, and father, a local real estate agent. Patrick Iannone was instructed to return to court for an arraignment on Oct. 2, at which time his lawyer, John Tumelty, said the case might be resolved. Prosecutor Edward Shim told Judge Christine Smith that the assault case will now proceed to the grand jury on Tuesday in accordance with New Jersey criminal procedure. Iannone, with a mop of curly black hair and his mother and father on either side of him, whistled to himself outside the courthouse and declined to make any comment. His mother, retired Sea Isle Police Capt. Rosemary Milano, and his father, Joseph Iannone, also had no comment. Tumelty told the judge there were a lot of mitigating factors in the case, but he did not detail what they were. Were going to see if we can work the case out on Oct. 2, Tumelty said outside the courthouse. Advertisement Kelly, a popular traffic anchor and Shore fixture, was busy tweeting Monday morning about the teens who escaped a Berks County detention facility, National Cheeseburger Day, and accidents on the Schuylkill and was not in court for the hearing, officially a pre-indictment conference. Patrick Iannone, accused assaulter of @BobKellyFOX29 leaves the courthouse in Cape May Court House this morning. Case will be before grand jury tomorrow and next hearing October 2. pic.twitter.com/tPluOgUnrU Amy S. Rosenberg (@amysrosenberg) September 18, 2023 Iannone was charged with aggravated assault in an attack during an event at Oar House Pub in Sea Isle City on July 30. Police say he knowingly and purposely caused significant bodily injury to Kelly, who was at the bar emceeing a charity event. Iannone admitted to officers he filmed himself pouring beer on Kelly during the event, according to a complaint summons obtained by The Inquirer. When Kelly turned around, Iannone whom police said appeared to be under the influence punched the Fox 29 personality so hard he lost consciousness. Kelly suffered lacerations above and beneath his eye socket. Kelly received medical care but didnt require stitches and was back on their air the following Tuesday. Kelly spoke about the assault on Fox 29, calling it a frightening, disturbing event apparently incited by a TikTok challenge. According to New Jersey municipal court records, Iannone pleaded guilty to simple assault in an incident at Dead Dog Saloon in Sea Isle City in June. The European Union countries of Italy, Greece, and Bulgaria boosted gas imports from Azerbaijan 6.1% year-on-year to 282,013 terajoules (TJ) in January-July 2023, according to Eurostat, the EU's statistical office, Azernews reports, citing Interfax. According to Eurostat, the EU countries paid 3.85 billion euros, a drop of 44.9%, for gas supplies from Azerbaijan during the reporting period. The EU countries reduced gas imports from Azerbaijan 8.3% year-on-year to 40,138 TJ in July 2023, paying 337.417 million euros, a fall of nearly 75% year-on-year. As previously reported, Eurostat data indicated that the EU countries imported natural gas from Azerbaijan totaling 15.599 billion euros in 2022, a surge of four-fold year-on-year. Azerbaijan boosted gas exports 18% to 22.3 billion cubic meters in 2022, ramping up supplies to Europe 39% to 11.4 bcm. Azerbaijan plans to export 24.5 bcm of gas in 2023, shipping about 12 bcm to Europe. SUNY Erie Community College is getting close to completing its search for a new president. The college hosted visits from its four finalists last week for interviews and presentations with the campus community. SUNY policy prevents its college and university search committees from disclosing the names of presidential candidates until shorty before their campus interviews. The four finalists invited on consecutive days starting Tuesday are: Jonathan K. Jefferson, special adviser to the president at Lesley University in Cambridge, Mass. Diane Ryan, former vice president of academic affairs at Yavapai College in Prescott, Ariz. Emmanuel Awuah, a higher education consultant and former vice president of academic affairs at St. Cloud Technical & Community College in Saint Cloud, Minn. Adiam Tsegai, who served as ECC provost and vice president of academic affairs until taking over as officer-in-charge when former president David Balkin stepped down last fall. An 18-member search committee began seeking Balkins replacement this past spring, and narrowed the initial 51 applicants down to eight last month before voting on the final four. Next, ECCs board of trustees will decide which of the finalists to recommend to SUNY for consideration. The board hopes to send one name to SUNY this week, which will remain confidential until SUNY approves the person and a formal announcement is made. None of the four finalists has held a position as the formal leader of a college, though Tsegai has been effectively serving in that role at ECC on an interim basis since early last year. ECCs next president will inherit a three-campus community college that went through an upheaval under Balkin, who had the unpopular job of cutting positions and low-performing programs to save ECC from bankruptcy last year. The college emerged with a more than $20 million reserve balance, but a divide between the faculty union and Balkins administration resulted in his resignation late last year. Tsegai has worked to bridge the divide by aligning administrative decisions with faculty union leaders while seeking the permanent president job. In the interim, several ECC administrators have retired or resigned, leaving open positions the next leader will need to fill. Following is a closer look at each candidate. Jonathan Jefferson Jefferson has many years of experience in both education and management, and holds two bachelors degrees, a masters degree and a doctorate. He earned a bachelors degree in math from Morehouse College, a historically Black mens college in Atlanta, in 1982 and went on to Cornell University for a masters in mechanical engineering and operations research. He worked at AT&T Bell Labs and as a vice president at Kearney Business and Consulting in Chicago while earning a masters in organization management from Capella University in Minneapolis. He served as dean of Clark Atlanta University school of business administration while pursuing his doctorate in management from Colorado Technical University, according to his LinkedIn resume. He has since served as a dean of business at SUNY Albany, director of the Coast Guard Academys Institute for Leadership and ran his own consulting firm before joining Lesley University as a management professor and chair of its business management division in 2015. He served as chief academic officer and provost from 2020 until this year, when he was named special adviser to the president. Diane Ryan Ryan is former vice president of academic affairs at Yavapai Community College in Prescott, Ariz., where she was hired as vice president of strategic initiatives in 2019 and rose to vice president of instruction in January 2020 and vice president of academic affairs from December 2020 until this past June, when she resigned in what the college called a surprising and unexpected decision. During her time at Yavapai, Ryan is credited with bringing a focus on using open educational resources (public domain materials) instead of textbooks to save students money to put toward tuition to stay enrolled, and establishing the colleges first bachelors degree, in business. She previously served as dean of engineering, science and mathematics at Tidewater Community College in Virginia, where she was named administrator of the year in 2018. Prior to that she was a professor of English and communications studies. She holds bachelors and masters degrees in communications from Western Illinois University and a doctorate from Old Dominion University. Emmanuel Awuah Awuah is described as a higher education consultant in a description supplied by ECC, but he has several decades of experience in academia leading up to his most recent role as vice president for academic affairs at St. Cloud Technical and Community College from April 2021 until this year. He previously served in the same position at Illinois Central College in Peoria, Ill., and as associate vice president of academic affairs at College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn, Ill., where he supervised four satellite campuses and increased pathways to regional universities and concurrent enrollment for high school students. In the early 2000s, he taught sociology as a professor at Onondaga Community College in Syracuse and directed the Diversity and Multicultural Resources Office and as its first chief diversity officer. He earned bachelors degrees in education and sociology from St. Marys Teachers College and the University of Ghana, West Africa, a masters in sociology from the University of Guelph in Canada and a doctorate in sociology and urban studies from Michigan State University. Adiam Tsegai Tsegai is an ECC alum who joined the college as its dean of engineering in 2018, after 15 years of rising through the leadership ranks at Bryant & Stratton College. At ECC, she rose from dean to chief academic officer to vice president of academic affairs to interim provost, a position she held during the colleges last presidential search in 2021, in which she was also among the four finalists. When Balkin landed the president job, ECCs board of trustees named Tsegai permanent provost in early 2022. After getting her associate degree in liberal arts and social science at ECC, she went on to the University at Buffalo, where she earned a bachelors in psychology and African studies, a masters in general education and her doctorate in educational and leadership policy and social foundations. Charles L. Blockson poses in his office on Nov. 7, 2013. Blockson, who died on June 14, 2023, will be honored at Temple University this Tuesday. Photo by Akira Suwa. Read more Temple University will honor the memory of Charles L. Blockson, who had been curator emeritus of the Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection at the university when he died in June, at a memorial service Tuesday. The memorial service will be at 2 p.m. on Sept. 19 at the Temple Performing Arts Center, 1837 N. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19122. Blockson, 89, an award-winning scholar and author, died June 14 at his home in Gwynedd. He founded the Blockson Collection in 1984 when he donated thousands of books and other memorabilia to the university. When he came, he brought 20,000 items to Temple and today, we have over 700,000 items and growing, said Diane D. Turner, the Blockson Collection curator. Advertisement READ MORE: Temples acting president, JoAnne A. Epps, has died after falling ill on stage at university event in memory of historian and author Charles L. Blockson There will be music and poetry at Tuesdays memorial service and a number of speakers will reflect on Blocksons life and legacy. Among the speakers, via a recorded video message, will be Lonnie Bunch III, the secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. Before his appointment as secretary, Bunch was director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) at the Smithsonian. In 2010, prior to the national museums opening in 2016, Blockson donated the silk and linen shawl Queen Victoria had presented to Harriet Tubman, and Tubmans hymnal and other personal items to the Smithsonian. At a Washington, D.C., ceremony acknowledging the gifts, Blockson spoke about his personal connection to Tubman and her fellow abolitionist William Still. My ancestors escaped with her and with William Still, Blockson said. They took them right across the river into Canada. I still have relatives in Canada. Oliver St. Clair Franklin, the third Honorary British Consul for Greater Philadelphia, is also scheduled to speak at Blocksons service. In an interview last week, Franklin recalled the time that Blockson suggested they drop by to see Paul Robeson, who was living in West Philly. The year was 1972. At the time, Franklin was the director of special projects at the Annenberg Center at the University of Pennsylvania, which was hosting the Philadelphia Black Film Festival that summer. Blockson attended a showing of the 1933 film The Emperor Jones, which starred Robeson. We both had posters of the film which showed Robeson, all dressed up as the emperor character, Franklin said last week. Franklin said Blockson suggested the two of them meet a few days later at the West Philadelphia house where an aging Robeson had moved in with his widowed sister, Marian Forsythe, in 1966. Robesons wife and manager, Eslanda Goode Robeson, had died the year before. When we got to the house, Robesons sister looked at me, but she didnt know me. Then she looked at Blockson, and she recognized him and let us in, Franklin said. Robeson came downstairs dressed in a suit, and was on his way to a doctors appointment. He signed their posters, shook their hands, and then went on to his appointment. But Franklin said he never forgot seeing how excited and enthusiastic Blockson was at seeing Robeson, who was a hero to him. READ MORE: Charles Blocksons grade school teacher told him Black people have no history. He set out to prove her wrong. Franklin later went on to become Philadelphias arts commissioner during the Wilson Goode Administration. He said Blockson encouraged him to become a serious collector as well. Now 77, Franklin was named a Commander of the British Empire, an honor just below knighthood, days before Queen Elizabeths death last year. He received that honor for his service strengthening relationships between the United States and the United Kingdom as third British Consul. He recently announced that his own book collection is going to Brown University. If you plan to attend the Blockson memorial, the university has asked that you RSVP to rsvp@temple.edu. Complimentary parking is available in the 15th Street Lot. Enter from 15th Street between Norris Street and Montgomery Avenue. The livestream will be available on Sept. 19 and you can watch it here: https://news.temple.edu/blockson Sid Weinberg, 91, in front of his artwork at Old City Jewish Arts Center in Philadelphia, Pa., on Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023. Weinbergs family organized his first ever art showing to celebrate his birthday. Read more A good number of years have now passed since Sid Weinberg received a model of his Feltonville pharmacy as a gift from his loving wife, Marcia. Weinberg thought the artist who built the replica did a nice job but maybe so could he. So he built a model of his Northeast Philly home. That first creation unleashed a passion and unearthed a talent that would go on to produce scores of artworks both painterly and three-dimensional mixed media that wowed family and friends alike. But Weinbergs wonders, for the most part, didnt leave his home. This prolific artist never had a public showing of his work that is, until Sunday. Advertisement At age 91. Its tremendous, said Weinberg, surrounded by well-wishers, including some hed never met before. I never imagined it never in my weirdest dreams. Weinberg, who made his first artwork when he retired as a pharmacist at age 56, was given his first ever exhibition by his family as a celebration of his life and art. It was held at the Old City Jewish Arts Center. Although Weinberg, who turned 91 on Aug. 31, said hed never thought about showing his work, he wasnt about to waste time on false modesty. Sunday afternoon, he was having a blast. When I told him we were doing this, he was the most excited Ive ever seen him in my life, said granddaughter Lindsey Pitts, 30, of Center City. When she told him reporters might be there, he called out to his wife, Extra! Extra! His family has watched with a kind of awe as Weinbergs gift unfolded over the years. His is an unschooled talent. His daughters, he said, bought him some art classes at one point, but they bored him. You might say hes preferred to go free range. Dad was a trash picker, said his daughter Cindy Pitts, 62, of Margate, who planned the fete with her daughter, Lindsey, and her sister, Mandy Weinberg, 57, of Yardley. I promise you he has never bought one frame. Weinberg, originally from South Philly, the son of a shoe salesman father and a mother who worked in a light fixture store, has found his inspiration in real life. His artwork features scenes from Bucks County and around Philadelphia, like one of the Italian Market Festival. But others depict his and Marcias many world travels: a gondola in Venice, a canal in Amsterdam, a street scene in Paris. However, he said he has not been influenced by other artists. He cant even think of any favorites, nor is he a big museum-goer. I went to a few. A lot of work, I didnt like. I said, Whats that doing in a museum? A lot of the work that people ooh and ahh over, I just didnt see it, Weinberg said. Mona Lisa didnt really turn me on. If the artist himself seems like an original, his family would say youve got that right. A jokester, a lot of sarcasm, said Mandy Weinberg. A practical joker, said Pitts. But a good man, too. Robert Midiri, 66, came from the Coatesville area to the opening. He started working as a delivery boy for Weinberg at his Bartons Pharmacy in Feltonville when he was 10 years old. It was Weinbergs example that inspired Midiri to pursue a career as a pharmacist. He was such a good role model, said Midiri, who is now semi-retired. He was the best pharmacist I ever met. He was like the doctor of the neighborhood. Usually, Weinberg doesnt like to celebrate his birthdays, said Pitts. He liked buying us gifts on his birthday, she said. Wed mention something wed really like, and youd get it from him on his birthday. But Sunday, in Weinbergs honor, the family hired a van to bring his and Marcias friends from their Northeast neighborhood to celebrate with him. Afterward, all those artworks would go back to the Weinbergs condo, taking up almost all the wall space. Its very difficult, said Marcia Weinberg, 89. Its like a museum. For her husbands first and only art showing, however, there were plenty of oohs and ahhs. Lots of laughs and lots of photos taken, too, including more than a few smooches between the Weinbergs, who will soon celebrate their 69th wedding anniversary. They celebrate every Friday the 13th to commemorate the day they met on a blind date in 1950. Besides art and romance, Weinberg, who wore a tie he painted himself, had a couple suggestions for a lively life. Walk every day, he said. And dont think its too late for a first of anything. Try something new, the artist said. And if that doesnt work, try something else. Its good for the body, good for the mind. There is a creeping lawlessness in American politics. There have always been people who break laws, but lately, the trend has been ambivalence toward the rule of law itself. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grishams order to ban gun possession in public in New Mexico last week is the most extreme example yet, but it is part of a larger theme. Keeping people safe Lujan Grishams stated goal with the gun ban is a worthy cause. But even if you believe this policy will be effective (and I think it will not), tearing down the rule of law to do it will cause more harm than good. Our founders built a system that was inspired by Enlightenment ideals. They knew that people were ambitious and emotional, but they hoped that the structures of the new government would temper those feelings, or else redirect them to positive ends. The separation of powers was their main way of doing this. Dividing power, they reasoned, meant that each branch would resist the encroachments of the others. Ambition would counteract ambition. Advertisement There are always people who chafe at the rule of law. Prideful and convinced of their own righteousness, they seek to bring about change in less democratic, more chaotic ways. They think they are justified because they are working toward a good cause, but this is why we need neutral principles principles grounded in law rather than in personal beliefs because, after all, everybody believes they are on the side of good. When individuals try to skirt the law in this way, we call it civil disobedience. When governments do it, it is tyranny. In 2019, then-candidate Kamala Harris promised action on gun control with or without Congress. If they [Congress] fail to do it, she said, then I will take executive action. Harris knows there is no they took too long clause in the Constitution. If there were, it would make the legislature superfluous and turn any president into a dictator. She said it anyway. Once, that lack of respect for the rule of law would have rendered a candidate unelectable, but Joe Biden selected her as his vice president anyway. For all the talk of Bidens normalcy, he and his predecessor shared a disdain for laws that restricted their power and ambition. Donald Trump tried to unilaterally divert funds from what Congress appropriated to what he wanted: a wall on the Mexican border. Biden went one better and tried to spend money Congress had not delegated for any purpose when he tried to forgive student loans. These actions were all outside the law. That doesnt feel lawless in the same way storming the U.S. Capitol or burning a police car does, but the principle (or lack thereof) is the same. Its one person saying, Im right, theyre wrong, and Im going to do whatever I want. Lujan Grisham went far beyond Trumps, Bidens, and Harris lawlessness when she decreed that people in her states most populous county would be banned from carrying guns in public, even if they had a license. Her justification for this was that violence in New Mexico cities constituted a statewide public health emergency, so the law and the Constitution no longer applied. Civil libertarians warned during the pandemic that if we set a precedent that executive orders could override basic liberties, future governments would do it again whenever they wanted. Well, the pandemic has barely ended and one governor is already doing it. Many will not care because it does not involve any rights that they care about. But as with any assertion of executive power, we must ask ourselves, Is this a power Id like to see in the hands of my opponents? Even if there was no Second Amendment, even if New Mexicos state constitution did not protect the right to bear arms, it would be a grave abuse of power for the governor to take this action without any law giving her that power. This is the idea at the heart of liberal democracy: principles must be neutral. If its fine for Michelle Lujan Grisham to pick which laws she will ignore, then its fine for Ron DeSantis, Greg Abbott, or any other governor to do the same. And we would have 50 dictators, not 50 governors. This is the idea at the heart of liberal democracy: principles must be neutral. New Mexico Republicans opposed Lujan Grishams act, which was so lawless that many of her fellow Democrats have condemned it as well. New Mexicos attorney general, Raul Torrez, told Lujan Grisham that he did not think the order will have any meaningful impact on public safety but, more importantly, I do not believe it passes constitutional muster. Some state legislators said the same. U.S. District Court Judge David Urias, a Biden appointee, blocked the order from being enforced until hearings on its constitutionality can happen. The system held for now. Legislators, judges, and other executives pushed back against this power grab. But each elected officials attempt to move from law to lawlessness makes tyranny seem a little more normal. Each time they get away with it is a signal to the next executive that there will be no punishment for violating the Constitution. Sen. John Fetterman waves to members of the media on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., in April. Read more Sen. John Fetterman can now wear his signature shorts and hoodie on the Senate floor without fear of violating a Senate dress code. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D., N.Y.) quietly directed the chambers sergeant-at-arms to no longer enforce the Senates already informal dress code, Axios reported on Sunday. Senators are able to choose what they want to wear on the Senate floor. I will continue to wear a suit, Schumer said in a statement. The new rule or lack of a rule takes effect this week. It wasnt immediately clear if Schumer changed the rule specifically with Fetterman in mind, though Fetterman is the chambers most casually dressed member, and one who has received ongoing GOP blowback about his image since his Senate run. Advertisement Fetterman, a Democrat, was inaugurated in a suit and tie but has long preferred his signature shorts and Carhartt hoodies, which came to define his everyman campaign. How that image fits into the gilded rotunda has continued to be a focus. Since returning to the Senate after being treated for clinical depression, Fetterman has worn a suit and tie when in the chamber but often wears casual clothing around the Capitol. Hes taken several votes from the edge of the Senate floor with one foot still in the cloakroom if hes in his more casual attire. Other senators have also long voted this way if theyre rushing back from travel or a more casual engagement, though it limits the interactions they can have before and after the vote on the chamber floor. The old rule requiring business attire, which typically means coat and tie for men still applies to Senate staffers, according to Axios. But there actually isnt a formal dress code written down anywhere, The Inquirer learned earlier this year when Fetterman took office. That makes the dress code more of a custom enforced at the discretion of the sergeant-at-arms. Ross Baker, a Senate historian and political science professor at Rutgers University, noted the lack of an official code has meant plenty of senators have been able to show their style western senators in cowboy boots and string ties, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse in Puma sneakers. The important thing to remember about the Senate is that it is an institution whose rules are tailored (sorry about the pun) for its members, Baker said, I can recall no instance of a point of order being raised about a colleagues fluorescent necktie or bolo tie. When hes not in D.C., Fetterman has almost exclusively gone casual, whether touring Pennsylvania farms or appearing with President Joe Biden to receive an update on the reopening of I-95 earlier this year. He held a Hoodies and Suits themed fundraiser for fellow Pennsylvania Democratic Sen. Bob Caseys reelection campaign last week. I couldnt have gotten to the Senate without Bobs support in 2022. And Bob wont win in 2024 without help from all of us whether youre #TeamHoodies or #TeamSuits, a fundraising email read. GOP backlash Some Republicans immediately lambasted the rule change, calling it disrespectful to the decorum of the Senate. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, on a campaign stop Monday, mentioned the dress code change. Did you guys hear the U.S. Senate just eliminated their dress code because you got this guy from Pennsylvania? DeSantis said. To show up in the United States Senate with that and not have the decency to not put on proper attire, I think its disrespectful. Fetterman shared DeSantis remarks on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, with the added comment I dress like he campaigns. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R., Ga.) also posted on X: The Senate no longer enforcing a dress code for Senators to appease Fetterman is disgraceful. Former U. S. Rep. Justin Amash, a longtime Republican who switched to the Libertarian Party, wrote on X: Awful. The Senate chamber isnt your home, a gym, or an outdoor park. If you cant dress professionally for work on the floor of the Senate of the United States, then do us all a favor and get a different job. Fettermans director of communications, Joe Calvello, responded to the change by joking about the fringe conspiracy that Fetterman has a body double. Great day for John Fettermans body double, we dont have to buy them suits anymore. Later he added: The amount of crying we are seeing from the GOP over the Senate dress code is reaching unprecedented of levels of bedwetting truly a sight to behold to see all the Fox News snowflakes so triggered over a hoodie and shorts. Donald Trump is facing new blowback from anti-abortion activists for refusing to commit to national abortion restrictions and for calling Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signing of a six-week ban on the procedure a terrible mistake. Speaking Sunday on NBCs Meet the Press, Trump repeatedly declined to say whether he would support a federal ban on abortion. He said he could live with the procedure being banned by individual states or nationwide through federal action, though he said from a legal standpoint, I think its probably better to be handled at the state level. Regarding the bill signed by DeSantis, which bans abortions before many women know they are pregnant, Trump said, I think what he did is a terrible thing and a terrible mistake. Advertisement So far, the former president has dominated the 2024 field while at times spurning the anti-abortion groups that traditionally have huge influence in Republican primaries. But Trumps direct attack on DeSantis, whom hes long treated as his chief rival, could give the Florida governor new fodder as he tries to regain momentum in his campaign and solidify his second-place standing. Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, DeSantis campaign spokesman Bryan Griffin wrote of Trump: If you want to appease Democrats, heres your guy. If you want to defeat the Democrats in 2024, [DeSantis] is the only choice. Another campaign spokesman, Andrew Romeo, distributed to reporters a roundup of conservative groups criticizing Trump and accused him of repeatedly compromising with Democrats. Republicans across the country know that Ron DeSantis will never back down, Romeo said. The country's largest anti-abortion organization, which backs a national ban on abortions at 15 weeks of pregnancy, quickly released a statement saying anything less restrictive "makes no sense. Were at a moment where we need a human rights advocate, someone who is dedicated to saving the lives of children and serving mothers in need. Every single candidate should be clear on how they plan to do that," said Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America. The Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v. Wade in 2022 left the decision of whether and how to restrict abortion to the states, creating a patchwork of laws across the country, with most Republican-led states imposing new restrictions and states led by Democrats passing protections. Twenty-five million women of childbearing age now live in states where abortions are more difficult to get than before the ruling. Trump has approached abortion from a political stance, saying that the Supreme Court's decision gave conservatives room to negotiate new restrictions. He has argued Republicans push for abortion restrictions hurt the GOP in the 2022 midterm elections and that GOP candidates need to do a better job of explaining the issue. Banning abortion at six weeks of pregnancy, as Florida enacted earlier this year, is unpopular with the U.S. public, according to an Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research conducted in June. The poll found that 73% of all U.S. adults believe abortion should be allowed at six weeks of pregnancy, which is when cardiac activity in a fetus may be detected and before women often know theyre pregnant. About half of Americans say abortions should be permitted at 15 weeks. But in Iowa's first-in-the-nation Republican caucuses, evangelicals and other social conservatives who strongly oppose abortion make up the majority of those who participate and decide the winner. Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds this summer signed an abortion ban similar to Florida's. Reynolds has not endorsed a candidate. Trump has called himself the the most pro-life president in American history and noted that three of his Supreme Court picks formed part of the conservative majority that overturned Roe. He has so far declined to go along with some of his rivals, including his onetime vice president, Mike Pence, who is pushing for national bans that would take effect relatively early in a pregnancy. Interviews with GOP voters and activists over the past several months suggest a split between people satisfied with Trump's record during his term and others who want Trump to endorse a national abortion ban. Some Republicans in some key states, including those backing his rivals, expressed displeasure after the interview. Among them was South Carolina state Rep. John McCravy, who sponsored the most recent, restrictive abortion measure, which bans the practice in his state after around six weeks of pregnancy. South Carolina will be among the early states to choose a nominee. McCravy described himself in an interview as certainly disappointed." It sounded completely out of step with his staunch support for life while he was president," he said. McCravy has endorsed South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott in the 2024 GOP presidential primary but told AP last week, Trump would probably be a close second, noting his Supreme Court appointments and his attending the March for Life rally in Washington. Kristen Waggoner, CEO of the conservative legal organization Alliance Defending Freedom, also took issue. Laws protecting the unborn are not a terrible mistake. They are the hallmark of a just and moral society, she wrote on X. Governors who protect life should be applauded, not attacked. Outside the Holly Ravine Farm, at Evesham and Springdale Roads in Cherry Hill. The site had been eyed for development of a senior living complex. Read more Cherry Hill township would buy and preserve the beloved Holly Ravine farm site as open space under a proposal announced Monday. Township council president and mayoral candidate David Fleisher said Cherry Hill has reached an agreement in principle to buy the 23-acre property at Springdale and Evesham Roads from the family that has owned it for nearly a century. Our family appreciates the special place that Holly Ravine Farm and the Cowtail Bar hold in so many peoples childhood memories, said owner Robert Gilmour, who grew up working on the farm. We are thrilled that the property will be saved and remain as open space for generations to come. On June 1, the township zoning board unanimously rejected the proposed development of a senior living complex at Holly Ravine, due in part to concerns about the impact on traffic in an already congested area. Advertisement Cherry Hill has the financial strength to buy the farm, said Fleisher, who is heading the negotiations, but he did not provide details on how much it would cost or where the money would come from. State and Camden County funding for critical preservation projects like Holly Ravine Farm are being pursued as well, he said. Acquisition of the land would need township council approval. Active farming and sale of locally made ice cream at the Cowtail ceased decades ago, but the potential loss of a verdant stretch of ground in a suburb where agriculture long ago gave way to strip malls led some Cherry Hill residents to organize against the senior housing proposal. READ MORE: Cherry Hill residents are pushing back on a plan to develop the last patch of Holly Ravine Farm into a senior living community The loss of other local landmarks such as the Cherry Hill Diner, which closed in April after 50 years in operation, also fueled opposition. Cherry Hill was largely an agrarian community, and we have seen over the years our last remaining pieces of open space and farmland being gobbled up, said Eric Ascalon, a former land use attorney who was among the leaders of the opposition. This is an example of what other communities in South Jersey can do to prevent the sort of redevelopment we have been made to feel is inevitable, he said. Jason Howell, the public lands advocate for the Pinelands Preservation Alliance, said local open spaces augment major tracts of public land such as the Pinelands National Reserve. We also need little pieces of nature where people can introduce themselves to the outdoors, he said. Little slices of open space such as Holly Ravine can serve as ambassadors to nature to residents of densely populated suburbs, he said. Reaction on the Save Holly Ravine Farm page on Facebook on Monday was largely positive. But skeptics questioned the potential acquisition cost while others wondered why the public wasnt given a chance to be more involved in a process that likely will involve spending public money. In the statement, Fleisher called the announcement a great day for Cherry Hill. He also noted several other recent or ongoing efforts to preserve or create open space in the township, including the Kingston Swim Club property. The club closed in 2020 and was demolished earlier this year. What these clauses effectively do is allow insurers to pay out the claim up to a certain percentage of the insured value, based on the fact that the insurer has missed out on considerable premiums that would have been paid if the property was insured at the correct level, said Stafford. New boundaries were supposed to go into effect for all 11 Erie County Legislature districts in January. But nine months later, the boundaries are still being disputed by Republicans, leaving in limbo the question of exactly who represents voters living near boundary lines. Another lawsuit over the district boundaries was filed this month. Erie County Legislature boundaries in Antarctica? Error-riddled descriptions of districts yield lawsuit Ralph Mohr, the GOP commissioner for the Erie County Board of Elections, said it's impossible to create a map with 11 contiguous districts with some descriptions sending boundaries into Antarctica, the Canadian waters of Lake Erie and Cattaraugus County. No detailed district maps, beyond broad, colored PDFs that cannot be zoomed to street level exist publicly for any of the 11 districts, despite the fact that two primary elections have been held, the general election is less than three months away, and military ballots are supposed to go out shortly. Moreover, the population and demographic breakdown for the residents and voters in each of these districts, provided to all legislators back in December, does not match the latest population figures submitted in legal paperwork to the court. In a few cases, the population numbers are off by less than 10 voters. In other cases, they are off by a couple hundred or more. Republican Elections Commissioner Ralph Mohr sued over the errors in the boundaries earlier this year and made headlines when he pointed out that some of the technical district boundary errors sent district lines out to Antarctica. But his legal challenges were tossed because the courts ruled he did not have legal standing to challenge the decision and that the maps override technical language errors in the written boundary descriptions. Judge denies election commissioner's request to toss district boundaries for Erie County Legislature A judge this week threw out an Erie County elections commissioner's challenge of error-plagued boundary lines for county Legislature districts. Now, the Legislatures Republican minority leader and others have filed a new suit saying the district maps remain substantively flawed, despite technical corrections, and need to be clarified before the general election. Its not trivial, said Minority Leader John Mills, R-Orchard Park. At this point in time, I dont even know what my district looks like. He, along with a Republican challenger for the Fourth District seat, and a West Seneca voter filed a State Supreme Court lawsuit on Sept. 8 against the two county elections commissioners, and three sitting county legislators, one Democrat and two Republican, who had primary races in June. A court hearing is scheduled on Sept. 26. Democratic Elections Commissioner and Erie County Party Chairman Jeremy Zellner pointed out that Mills voted in favor of the district lines, along with all the other legislators. Those boundaries are what the Board of Elections has implemented in a bipartisan manner, he said. At this late juncture it is highly regrettable that the people of Erie County will be asked to foot the bill for another baseless lawsuit, he said. Bryan Fiume, chief of staff for the Republican minority, said that legislators gave their approval to district lines based on the breakdown information provided to them. If that underlying information is incorrect, he said, then those who were affected have the right to claim they were misled. He pointed to an affidavit submitted by a systems administrator for the Board of Elections who provided updated district population totals that differ for all 11 districts than what was originally provided. New Erie County Legislature districts preserve the status quo The majority of legislature districts saw tweaks to their lines, though residents in Grand Island, Tonawanda, Concord, Springville, Marilla and Sardinia will see bigger changes in representation. Mohr, the Republican elections commissioner, who is also named as a defendant in the latest lawsuit, said he agreed that the courts need to take a look at the boundary changes and resolve the issues once and for all. I knew it was something that had to get resolved, he said. I wish it had been resolved before this time. Aside from the Board of Elections commissioners, legislators and challengers for the 10th District are also named as defendants. In the 10th District, short-term Republican incumbent James Malzcewski was nudged out of his seat in the Republican primary by Conservative Party challenger Lindsay Lorigo. Both engaged in party-switching tactics in their bid for election. Incumbent Fourth District Legislator John Bargnesi, a Democrat, is also named as a defendant. His challenger, Republican Scott Marciszewski, joined Mills as a petitioner in the suit. Zellner said that regardless of the suit, the Board of Elections is prepared to meet this challenge while effectively administering and overseeing the November election. [The new framework] is especially relevant now as the wider market grapples with a shortage of talent and ongoing demographic changes. What truly resonates with me is the expertise needed to apply these skills in real-world settings, ultimately leading to the best possible outcome for everyone involved in an insurance claim, said Tony Morgan, a Sedgwick national executive adjuster in Australia and advocate of the program. This initiative will be instrumental in driving the loss adjusting industry forward and [I] am thankful to everyone who contributed to it. Aside from their placards and banner, the Stop EACOP campaigners also brought with them recorded messages from those who would be affected by the planned pipeline in East Africa. They are opposing the project not only because of EACOPs contribution to climate change but also due to its impact on wildlife and on local communities. It is different than just phishing, phishing being a non-tailored attempt at getting you to click on something and spearfishing being something that is crafted just for you, Schnese said. They know about you, they know about the conversation youve been having with your vendor or with your director, and so theyre crafting a perfect attempt at a scam. [Shaping the Future of Insurance: The Power of Focused Expertise Paul Lucas [00:00:07] Hello everyone and welcome to the latest edition of Insurance Business TV where we'll be delving into the digitalization of the insurance industry. Are you a technophile or a technophobe? If you're the former, then there's going to be plenty for you to add it to your playbook today as we delve into the concept of vertical integration. And if you're the latter, well, don't worry, because we're going to be explaining that idea and delving into some of the changes digitalization is bringing and how you can get started, I say we actually are going to be turning tweet genuine industry experts to wear both hats and explain how these ideas can benefit your business. That man is Travis MacMillan, President of the Americas at Xceedance. Travis, welcome to Insurance Business TV. Travis MacMillan [00:00:56] Thank you, Paul. It's great to be here today. Paul Lucas [00:00:59] So Travis, the insurance industry has, of course, gone through a rapid period of digitalization. Now, can you elaborate for us on some of the changes and the impact they've had? Travis MacMillan [00:01:10] Absolutely, Paul, so you know, if I think back, you know, first, I've been in the industry about 30 32 years, the first 25 years, the industry, you know, change was like very gradual. You know, starting with the advent of things like the fax machine, the Internet, email, online rating, you know, for personal lines and small commercial, that said, if I if I look at the last five years in the industry, there's been more digital transformation than over the past 25 combined. You know, and there's several real notable changes, I think that have impacted the industry in a very positive way. So let me talk about, you know, some of those key transformations, you know, first is digital customer experience, right, insurers have invested heavily in improving their digital interfaces and online presence. Customers can now you know, purchase policy, file claims, manage their accounts, all through a very user friendly website, mobile applications, and a lot of that's been driven through, you know, low code, no code type solutions, where, you know, insurers can can leverage, you know, really their legacy technology, and create new sexier front ends, you know, to change that whole customer experience. You know, another big areas, data analytics and AI. And, you know, you think about insurers, you know, they've harnessed the power of data analytics and artificial intelligence, you know, the AI aspect of that, to better assess risk, underwriting policy, detect fraud, fraudulent activity on claims, leverage, mature, you know, machine learning modules, to analyze the vast amount of data to really create more accurate predictions and streamline decision making through, you know, the whole process around underwriting. You know, the next area, I would say, is, is really in telematics and the internet of things, you know, the use of telematic devices, and IOT, you know, it's really become prevalent in the insurance industry, particularly in insurance, auto, the auto line of business, I think those technologies and tracking driver behaviors, enabling insurers to offer really uses base insurance policies, potentially reducing, you know, premium in creating kind of a better risk selection based on driver history has really kind of changed, you know, that area. Personalization, and what I mean by that is really, insurers are leveraging customer data to tailor policies really, and pricing specific to individual needs and behaviors. And this personalization really can lead to more competitive premiums for the insured, which in turn means a better customer risk retention for the insurance carrier. You know, automation and chatbot. Chatbot was a buzzword, you know, going back a couple of years ago, it's still pretty prevalent, and I think insurers are really figuring out, you know, better ways to to leverage chatbot and automated systems are really increasing, you know, kind of the customer support ecosystem for, you know, policyholders in for the claims process. So, rather than having, let's say a human answer that phone 24/7 People can go online and they can interact with a bot to really get at what they need to file a claim. To get policy questions answered on a 24 by seven, you know basis, which is really kind of changing the whole spectrum of that whole customer interaction, and experience. And in turn for a carrier, what that means is, while they're meeting customer needs, they're also reducing their operating costs substantially, which then allows them to deploy new products into the marketplace better. And for a lesser a lesser rate, we're seeing, you know, really kind of a whole wave of insurer tech startups that have really emerged with a focus on innovating technologies, that's really kind of disrupted the traditional insurance model. And these startups offer, you know, new insurance products and services, often with a strong emphasis around digitalization, that are really, you know, started to revolutional, revolutionary, you know, the, the whole area of insurance. I think the second part of your question is, you know, what are some of the impacts of these changes? And I think it really there, I'd break it into kind of four key areas. One is improved efficiency, right. So digitalization has really streamlined, many insurance processes, reducing paperwork, reducing manual tasks, which leads to cost savings, and faster service and delivery. And really kind of meeting the whole demographic change of the insurance buyer. Right? If you go back to baby boomers and people prior to that, their expectation was they wanted interaction with an agent or broker, they wanted to deal with paper that was, you know, that was their expectation. But really, Millennials, Gen Z, Gen I's, the next generation, what whoever they're going to be, you know, they want it now they want instant touch, they want it through a mobile phone. And, and realistically, the insurance industry has to adapt to those changes to meet really those customer needs. And enhanced risk assessment is another big area, I think of where these changes are impacting so through the advanced analytics and AI is really improved the insurers ability to assess risks accurately, leading to more competitive price. But more importantly, better risk selection, right? So their portfolio, and really, where they see loss trends occurring and things like that become more predictable. So it allows them to really, I think, react to the market in a much better way. If you think about Insurer Techs and how they've come to the market, it's really increased competition, right from a traditional insurer, which I think drives better outcomes, it drives better outcomes for insurers, it drives better outcomes for insurance companies, because it's really kind of pushing, pushing the envelope across, you know, things collectively. And ultimately, I think, the last bucket that I think is critical is really around better customer experience, because customers have now more control and transparency over, you know, the whole insurance process. And that results in in better overall satisfaction for them. Paul Lucas [00:08:30] When you talk to us, as well about that, so it's that emergence of these specialized providers. So just give us a little bit of insight as well in terms of what they bring to the table compared to those traditional some would say horizontal providers. Travis MacMillan [00:08:46] Yeah, so it's interesting. So I think that you know, is we think about providers that help support the insurance industry, right in the specialization, I think there's there's main differences between a specialized provider and a traditional horizontal provider, really, it gets at the depth of acumen that they have an insurance, right, so what we've seen is that specialized providers have a wealth of insurance knowledge, they have deep insurance acumen, they speak the insurance language, they understand the challenges and the advancement of technology and how to apply that to everything that an insurer or traditional insurer really needs to be able to evolve into that new space, right the space that like the insurer techs are playing and things like that. And it really better positions them for longer term success, right? Because of that specialization. If I think about providers that go across multiple verticals, they're not just focused on insurance, they're focused on things like manufacturing, retail, etc. And while they may have deep technical background across, you know, all of the shiny objects like AI like chat GPT Things like that, right, where they know how to apply them. But more in a general standpoint, the issue really becomes there is that they lack the deep knowledge to be able to understand the process that an insurer goes through, and how to take it from A to Z, which is really, you know, the transformation that that that's truly needed. Paul Lucas [00:10:21] I mean, that that sounds great in theory, but you know, I'm gonna put you on the spot. Travis, can you give us any, any real world examples where a vertical focused approach has actually made a tangible difference? Travis MacMillan [00:10:34] Sure, I think I can find a couple of examples of how digitalization combined with vertical focus providers has provided the right approach to drive what I'll call more efficient operation operations, personal customer experience and the ability to tap into niche markets, really that I think tailor or you know, through tailored like insurance solutions, right. So first, let me describe for you, you know, kind of a company who focuses in on homeowners and renters insurance, as a startup organization, and really looking at becoming what I'll call a digital insurance company, focused on those two areas and lines of business. So in this case, the company used an AI driven chatbots and AI automated underwriting process to provide quick and hassle free policy issuance and claims processing. So if I bifurcate, those two, you have first the front end part, right? How do I track the right client through this digital process? And then where the rubber meets the road is at the time of a claim, right? And then how do I then digitize that whole claims back end process from FLL? Through the through it, right? By leveraging really, artificial intelligence and technology, right, the company was was able to operate through an ease of use, which means as a consumer, I have less information I need to provide them. Because through a couple of different, let's say, pieces of information, I can then go out into the marketplace and leverage AI to pull in third party information that exists about me as a potential policyholder, and bring that into the equation of the underwriting process. Right. And then, through that process, really harnessed AI, to be able to then offer me the right coverages at the right price, to drive that process. Right. So it creates this ease of use, that's, you know, almost unheard of, and what does that really do for for the insurer? Well, it allows them to operate at a whole different operating cost model, right, because there's less human intervention, there's less back and forth. And their risk selection should be better than average, right? Then, then, when it comes time to let's say, I have a claim. So then again, it's all done through a digital process. So I go online, and, you know, I'm interacting, again, with a chatbot, an AI enabled chatbot, and I'm putting in information about my claim, they already know everything about me. And then they can literally take me through a digital process 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and even take it a step further, where they can utilize a virtual desk, adjust process, where they don't need to send boots on the ground, you know, an independent adjuster out there that has a knock on my door come in and evaluate, you know, the claim, they can actually do it through a virtual way. And the customer, you know, experience that I would then get from that would allow them to adjudicate the claim settle the claim almost instantly, within 24 hours, which is unheard of right. And then they can send me a digital, you know, payment on the claim or dispatch a, you know, a repair company that then comes out and actually fixes and makes me whole again. So that's all real that's there. What does that mean? It means that, you know, I've created a whole different process to go from A to Z, right? I've had a whole different experience. And then when I have a claim, my entire claims experience is completely different, which actually gets at a lower allocated loss adjustment expense for the company, which means that I can provide products to the marketplace at a lower costs, but still maintain the right profit levels that I need and that you know, my owners would expect me to deliver as an insurer. I'll actually probably share a you know, another example that's, that's a little bit different. So if we think about the auto industry Right, you know, and an auto insurance writer, we have another use case where it's a unique approach using telematics and telematic data on smartphones, to assess driver behavior, right. And, and so when you think about, let's say, a digital intervention of an insurance company that's transitioning from traditional to non traditional, right? And using, let's say, smartphone sensors to monitor driver behavior, it allows you to then offer a use based pricing model, right. So if I know exactly how an insured is driving, at any point in time, I know how hard they're braking, I know how quick they're turning, I know whether or not they're actually exceeding the speed limit, what times they actually do that, I can then literally offer them a pricing model that says, I can anticipate all the things in how you're driving overlay to that, let's say traffic patterns, things like that. Right? So then it will allow me to really attract safer drivers, offering them the right premium or lower premiums, because their exposures are less. And I can rely on that data and the technology to drive more accurate pricing compared to the way in which I operate it as it let's say a traditional insurer, ultimately driving better loss ratios, and better outcomes, you know, for for the insurance company and ultimately, even for the policyholder themselves. Paul Lucas [00:16:41] And so maybe when you talk about ideas like that, they still sound sort of futuristic, but they're very much the here and now. But if we if we do Travis MacMillan [00:16:50] Absolutely here now, right? I mean, it's amazing. Paul Lucas [00:16:54] Yeah, but if we do look towards the future, just tell me how you think the role of these vertical focused consulting companies will evolve in the insurance sector? And indeed, how can they help insurers to not just adapt to but I suppose, shape the future landscape of the industry as well? Travis MacMillan [00:17:11] Yeah, Paul, great question. I think, you know, insurance companies, managing general agencies, and managing general underwriters, right? I kind of bunched them all together, because they're very similar, they all take risk. And, you know, expose either a frontline carriers capital or capital themselves, you know, who embrace, you know, vertical focused consulting companies will have an advantage to create the right level of dis of disruption, and apply it to, you know, really traditional insurance models, by leveraging all of the new areas and future advancements of technology to really deliver better value that will meet the unique needs of their target customers. And it goes back to kind of my earlier comment, the demographics of the buyer are changing. And for companies that aren't embracing that change, that's going to be problematic, right. So I believe that it's really the role of, of the vertical focused consultancy, to understand all of the technologies that are out there. And the accelerators that are being developed, and to then take their deep domain in the insurance space, because remember, these people like Xceedance, as an example, right, focus only on insurance, and by only focusing on insurance. And being agnostic to technology allows you then to really think about what's the art of the possible and applying those technologies to really leapfrog them, you know, ahead of the time and create that right? disruption. Right. So, you know, as a further example, you know, if we take the Gen z's, and millennials, their expectations are vastly different than the baby boomers. And companies truly need to understand that as their portfolios of clients are changing. And they need to work with vertical focus companies to help them drive that change to meet the customer's expectation, because otherwise, they're going to get to a point in time where they're going to become irrelevant. And then that becomes a problem. Right. And I think all of this will set the foundation for the future landscape of change within the insurance industry. Paul Lucas [00:19:37] Yeah, and I was gonna say as well, I mean, you know, I mentioned at the top about the idea of potentially some technophobes who might be watching this as well. But for an insurance professional or industry observer, just somebody who wants to know more about vertical integration, just give them an idea on how they can get started. Travis MacMillan [00:19:57] Yeah, so it's a it's a great question. I'm gonna answer it in two ways, I'm going to answer it in a fundamental way, which is, you know, how would you engage a consultancy? In order to have that conversation? What are some of the things you should look at? And then I'm going to go completely rogue, and I'm going to tell you something that I did just to demonstrate the power of the technology that's coming to head. Right. So first is I think they should look at companies, you know, that truly focus on the vertical. And the reason for that is that most will have deep knowledge, or at least knowledge of the insurance sector. And that's important, right? That has to be kind of like table stakes. A lot of these companies will also be harnessing technology and array intervention, but you want one that's going to be actually agnostic to technology. The reason I say that is because then they're going to keep technology in the forefront, and always look at what's the most cutting edge and how to apply that then to process right through the lens of technology to enable process so that people can be doing more that's core to their job, or their role, or their roles will then expanded to other things. But that but that's critical. Right? I think it's also important for them to question the the consultancy and ask, really, really, what I would call three important questions. First is, do you only focus on insurance? If the answer to that is no, they need to probe deeper? What else do they focus on? Right? First is? And then the second question is, well, you know, what's the depth of your team in insurance? Right? How much acumen Do you truly bring to the table? Is it just, you know, the consultative people that are out there talking about, you know, insurance in general? Or do they do their teams actually, you know, bring to the table, deep acumen across all areas? So whether you're talking about claims, finance and accounting, underwriting policy, servicing operations, customer satisfaction, whatever it is, do they truly embrace and have a deep understanding of every aspect of what an insurance company does today? Because that's critical. And then the third is, you know, what types of technology and invention have they been involved with? And, more importantly, what's the benefits that their current customers have achieved? From what they've instituted? Did it meet their challenges? Did it? You know, did it align with their strategic direction of where they wanted to head? And was it able to be delivered, etc. You know, those are those are just really to kind of name a few. But I think what's what's critical is that they don't fall into the trap of companies that are not being innovative, that aren't doing, you know, that really kind of do everything through the window of just people and process. They say they're, they're innovating technology, but they can't actually demonstrate in real time real life examples of how they've done that. I think that would be that would be problematic. Now, just to show you how innovative we are, and how innovative we can be Paul, what I did is actually I took a step further. And I went and asked that question to chat GPT, because I wanted to see what it would say. Right? So what I said was, you know, how would I learn more about an insurance vertical integration? And what it said to me was this, learning more about insurance, vertical integration involves gaining a comprehensive understanding of how insurance companies operate within their specific vertical markets and the strategies they employ to streamline their operations where technology can change their current process, then it listed out about 14 questions, right, to focus in on everything from self learning, to networking, to understanding the vast technologies. And I think all of that really relates back to, you know, the question that was at hand, you know, how can I as an insurance professional, right, understand and empower a conversation with the right consultancy, to really take me to the next level to create that disruption. And so it's interesting how technology today has evolved so much where I can ask it a question, and it can give me almost an answer in which as a human, I would think about, it's pretty powerful stuff. And for companies that aren't embracing it, they're going to become stagnant really quickly, I think, because while we've seen huge change in the last five years, I think the change we're going to see in the next two to three is really going to revolutionize the way that the insurance industry as a whole interacts with its customers with each other. And it's things that you know, we can't even contemplate today. Paul Lucas [00:25:10] Yeah, I imagine that you've probably scared it a few people and excited a few more Travis. But that was a great record for us. Thank you very much for your for your time today. Travis MacMillan [00:25:20] Super Thank you, Paul. And I'll just throw out your you know, to the watchers. Look, if anybody has questions or if you want to engage in a conversation about it, I'd be happy to do that. You know, they can reach me at [email protected] or find me on LinkedIn. Always happy to help people in the industry. Paul Lucas [00:25:41] Yeah, fantastic. Well, it's Travis managed to keep a technologically malnourished mind like my own on track. But for more industry knowledge from the very best, stay tuned right here, at Insurance Business TV.] The property insurance industry breathed a sigh of relief after Hurricane Idalia landed in a less-populated part of the coast, triggering just a few billion dollars in losses. But regulators have urged insurers to make sure that claims from the area are taken care of. Insurance agents in Floridas Big Bend area, the hardest-hit region, are applauding those efforts, urging carriers to remember the small-town homeowners and businesses that were damaged by the storm. It couldnt have hit in a better spot as far as industry losses are concerned. But theres still a lot of significant damage here in Taylor and Madison counties, said Jeffrey Rush, a commercial lines agent in Live Oak, Florida, with the George Odiorne Insurance Agency. The storm spared his own house but knocked down a pine tree that Rush planted in 1988. The coast got beat up pretty bad, Horseshoe Beach and Suwannee, especially, said Todd Bryant, senior vice president at Nature Coast Insurance, an agency with three offices in the area. He compared the surge to the famous Storm of the Century, a non-hurricane event that inundated parts of the South in March 1993. Idalia may not be a storm for the ages, but state officials said they were taking it seriously. Florida Insurance Commissioner Michael Yaworsky issued an emergency order, giving insureds two months grace period on policy cancellations and nonrenewals. All cancellation notices mailed in the 10 days preceding Sept. 1 must be withdrawn and reissued after Oct. 31, the order states. In the coming weeks, OIR will work in overdrive to both support policyholders in impacted areas and continue our efforts to promote a robust insurance market for consumers, Yaworsky said in a statement. Floridas Department of Financial Services, which encompasses the OIR, also rushed to set up insurance villages just days after the storm hit, in Perry and Fanning Springs, to assist insureds with claims. Please be advised that these locations are outdoors and will not have power available, reads an email from DFS Greg Thomas to insurers. Please bring appropriate equipment to conduct operations in a parking lot. Insurance villages have become the norm after hurricanes, with tents and tables set up to handle claims processing. But Fridays announcement came on a Friday afternoon, giving insurers just a few hours notice and catching some off guard. One executive suggested that Florida CFO Jimmy Patronis may have decided to move up the timetable because U.S. President Joe Biden was due to tour the water-slogged area Saturday morning, with national media in tow. Florida insurers are facing a little more scrutiny and new reporting requirements, after the state Legislature this year approved the Insurer Accountability Act. The law was passed after three independent adjusters charged that several carriers and their claims firms had inappropriately altered damage estimates from Hurricane Ian and other storms. Insurers are now required to abide by industry best practices and follow their own claims handling manuals. As of Sunday, Sept. 3, four days after the storm hit, OIR reported that more than 10,500 Idalia claims had been filed. About 75% of those were for residential property. Some 455 had already been closed with payment, while 435 were closed without payment. By comparison, OIR has recorded 739,771 claims from last years powerful Hurricane Ian, with more than half of those closed with payments by the end of June this year. Many of the claims from Idalia are expected to be flood-related, although only a fraction of homes and businesses in the Big Bend region had obtained flood coverage before the storm hit, experts said. RMS, part of Moodys Investment Service, has estimated losses to the National Flood Insurance Program to be about $500 million. Theres a lot of flooding in that area from the storm surge, said John Gragson, senior vice president of claims operations for Sedgwick, the national claims management firm. The firm had adjusters on the ground, working for property insurers in Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. But by and large, the wind field was not as extensive as was expected, Gragson said. Others in the region agreed that the industry had largely dodged a bullet, thanks to the path of the storm and reduced windspeeds as it moved across the three coastal states. A testament to that came from the South Carolina Wind and Hail Underwriting Association, which writes residential property in coastal counties. Weve had just two claims, so far, Randy Mason, claims director for the association, said Friday. It was a lot quieter than we expected. Insurers in the Carolinas were all breathing a sigh of relief, and counting their blessings, said Russ Dubisky, an official with the South Carolina Insurance Association and the Insurance Federation of North Carolina. Coastal Georgia was in similar shape after Idalia blew through, with relatively minor claims. Every claim weve seen so far is from trees falling on roofs or on vehicles, said Renata Lee, an agent in Waycross, Georgia. The wind insurer that may see the most losses in Florida is the state-created insurer of last resort, Citizens Property Insurance Corp. Topics Florida Carriers Agencies Claims Georgia South Carolina Kileen Moria Hagadone, 57, owner of Rosebud County Insurance Inc., pleaded guilty to wire fraud and to aggravated identity theft. Hagadone faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release on the wire fraud crime and a mandatory minimum of two years in prison, a $250,000 fine and one year of supervised release on the aggravated identity theft crime. A sentencing date will be set before a U.S. District Judge. Hagadone was released pending further proceedings. The government alleged in court documents that Hagadone owned and operated Rosebud County Insurance, an insurance brokerage business. Hagadone reportedly received insurance payments from customers but failed to send the funds to insurers. Instead, Hagadone misappropriated the money for personal expenses. The scheme reportedly ran from about 2020 until April 2023. The government further alleged that one of the victims was the Chief Dull Knife College of Lame Deer, which engaged Hagadone to find an insurance policy for the college. Hagadone did so, and the negotiated premium for the policy in November 2021 was $91,883. The college reportedly paid Hagadone the full amount. Instead of sending the premium to the insurer, Hagadone contracted to finance the colleges insurance premium with a premium financing company and forged the signature of a college representative, enabling Hagadone to keep most of the payment without immediately cancelling the policy. Eventually, Hagadone embezzled too much money from her business trust account and could not pay the financing payments, and by April 2022, the colleges insurance was terminated. Hagadone concealed this from the college and falsely represented that the college was insured, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin M. Rubich is prosecuting the case. The Montana State Auditor, Commissioner of Securities and Insurance, FBI and Rosebud County Sheriffs Office conducted the investigation. Topics Agencies Montana Alan Oligario`s home is prone to flooding and he wishes someone had told him before he bought it. His initial flood came in the first year after he bought the house in Highland Falls, New York. The second came about a decade later. The third occurred in July when torrential rains drenched the region and he woke up to water about knee deep in his home. If we were made aware, or if our neighbors were made aware of the flooding situation, some things might have been done differently, said Oligario, adding that he wouldn`t have bought his home or at least would have sprung for flood insurance if he had known. A bill in New York could soon require people selling their homes to disclose whether their properties have been flooded or are at risk for future flooding a move supporters argue is necessary as rising sea levels and intense storms with climate change lead to more flooding in the state. State lawmakers passed the proposal earlier this year and it now awaits a signature from Democratic New York Gov. Kathy Hochul. The legislation comes as more counties in New York experience flooding and inland areas that have been considered safe from such events have become more vulnerable to floods, with recent storms in the region driving urgency for the bills backers. The growing threat and presence of inland flooding, like what we saw during (Hurricane) Ida or like what was on display in the Hudson Valley, is a really major factor for why flood disclosure is such an important bill, said Tyler Taba, policy manager for The Waterfront Alliance, an advocacy group that supported the proposal in New York. Were seeing flooding happen outside the floodplain so much more frequently, and its really hard to know if the property youre looking at is at risk of flooding, especially if its away from the water, he said. Extreme Rainfall The Northeast is experiencing the greatest increase in extreme rainfall of any region in the U.S., according to a National Climate Assessment report, and a rate of sea-level rise thats three times greater than the global average. The region is also projected to see more frequent and intense storm surge events in coming years. The bill would close a loophole in state law that has allowed sellers to pay a $500 fee to avoid disclosing flood risk and other known property conditions such as lead paint and asbestos. It would also require sellers to disclose additional information about flooding in their properties, such as whether the property is in a flood hazard area and if any flood insurance claims have been filed. New York already has a similar law in place for rental properties that took effect this year. If signed by Hochul, the current bill would make the state at least the 30th in the country to require flood disclosures during home sales. Brian Fredrickson, another homeowner in Highland Falls, a village north of New York City on the Hudson River at an elevation of 144 feet (44 meters), said his home was also flooded during heavy rains in July, just about a year after he bought the place. He said inspections during the sale process showed his cellar had some minor signs of water damage due to groundwater seeping in, but he wasn`t aware of the full flooding history of his property, and that a nearby retaining wall meant to keep water at bay had been damaged in a storm about a decade ago. As far as the history of the flooding, that`s not disclosed, nor do they have to, said Fredrickson. Bill sponsor Assemblymember Robert Carroll said homebuyers are generally only told about flood risks if they are purchasing a property in a 100-year floodplain designated by federal emergency management officials, which he said potentially doesn`t capture the current reality of flood risks. Theres been a flood designated in every single county in New York in the last 10 years, he said. Lots of those floods have not been in floodplains and so this will make sure that buyers are afforded the knowledge that the seller has. A spokesperson for Hochul said it is unclear when the governor would sign the bill into law. Izaguirre reported from Albany, N.Y. 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. Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics New York Flood A mortgage lender accused of violating the False Claims Act by approving government-backed loans that did not meet federal guidelines can seek to recover the $15 million it paid to resolve the allegations from its management liability insurer, the Delaware Supreme Court ruled Thursday. The high court rejected arguments by Chubb Groups Ace American Insurance Co. that Guaranteed Rate Inc.s settlement with the US Justice Department was not covered because the violations involved professional services excluded from the management liability policy. In a 3-0 decision, the court affirmed a Superior Court judgment that found Ace liable, but also rejected GRIs allegations that the insurer had acted in bad faith. This case carries substantial precedential significance for policyholders across the nation, said Lilit Asadourian, a partner with the Barnes & Thornburg law firm in Los Angeles who represented Guaranteed Rate. The court made it clear that FCA claims by the government are separate from the professional services that a company provides to its customers and, as such, coverage is available for FCA claims under a management liability (D&O) policy. The court made it clear that FCA claims by the government are separate from the professional services that a company provides to its customers and, as such, coverage is available for FCA claims under a management liability (D&O) policy. GRIs troubles started in 2017, when a former employee filed a whistleblower lawsuit accusing the lender of falsely certifying to the government that the loans it endorsed were eligible for government insurance. Under the federal governments Direct Endorsement program, the Federal Housing Administration and Department of Veterans Affairs guaranty mortgage loans that meet government deadlines and pay a portion of the losses if the borrower defaults. The former employee alleged that GRI certified that its loans were eligible for the guaranties, even though the company paid prohibited commissions to its underwriters, pressured employees to endorse bad loans and did not verify borrowers financial information. The US Attorney for the Southern District of New York notified the mortgage company that it was investigating the whistleblower lawsuit, known as qui tam action. GRI notified Ace of the investigation the next month. GRI had purchased two insurance policies from Ace: A professional liability policy and a management liability policy. The professional liability policy specifically excluded False Claims Act violations from coverage. The management liability policy excluded any damages caused by professional services, but did not define the term. The management liability policy had a $5 million limit with a $2.5 million self-insured retention. In January 2020, the US Attorneys Office demanded $24 million. GRI eventually agreed to pay $15.06 million to settle the matter. The company admitted that it did not adhere to the governments self-reporting requirements, made gifts or paid commissions to underwriters and had approved loans that were not eligible for certification. Ace denied coverage in March 2020, citing the professional services exclusion in the management liability policy. GRI filed a lawsuit alleging breach of contract and bad faith and seeking a declaration that coverage was owed for the settlement action and legal costs. The Superior Court ruled that the professional services exclusion did not apply because the governments complaint related to compliance with quality control standards, not GRIs business of underwriting and issuing loans. The trial court issued summary judgment in favor of GRI on the breach of contract and declaratory judgment claims, but rejected GRIs bad faith claim. The court said there was a good faith dispute about whether the insurer had grounds to deny coverage. Ace appealed. GRI filed a cross appeal, arguing that its bad faith claim should have been approved. The Supreme Court affirmed the Superior Courts decision. The opinion cites several cases that rejected broad definitions of professional services to include actions such as fraudulent billing practices and improper approval of financial aid to college students. Ace had argued that the criminal investigation of GRI arose out of the professional services it performed. Aces interpretation of arising out of effectively extends coverage of the exclusion to just about anything remotely connected to the professional service, the opinion says. Courts have often held that professional service exclusions do not apply when the act complained of is only incidental to an insureds professional services. Dominic Rupprecht, a partner and policyholder attorney at Reed Smith who was not involved with the case, said the decision shows that coverage for False Claims Act accusations may be available if there are no clear exclusions. Policyholders, with the assistance of coverage counsel, should critically examine all of their policies for potential coverage and aggressively advocate for their rights, he said in an email. The costs of a False Claims Act suit or investigation are too high to simply take an insurers no for an answer. Rupprecht said even before Thursdays decision, insurers were adding endorsements to their policies imposing sublimits or outright exclusions for liabilities arising under the False Claims Act. I would expect that trend to accelerate, he said. Topics Claims BAR HARBOR, Maine (AP) Atlantic storm Lee made landfall at near-hurricane strength Saturday, bringing destructive winds, rough surf and torrential rains to New England and Maritime Canada. But officials withdrew some warnings for the region and predicted the storm would disappear early this week. The U.S. National Hurricane Center said early Sunday that the post-tropical cyclone was about 35 miles (55 kilometers) west of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, and about 225 miles (360 kilometers) west of Channel-Port Aux Basques, Newfoundland. The top sustained wind speed had dropped for a third time in 24 hours to 50 mph (85 kph) with some higher gusts expected. Gradual weakening is forecast during the next couple of days, and Lee could dissipate on Tuesday, the hurricane center said. The center discontinued a tropical storm warning for the coast of Maine late Saturday and reported the Canadian Hurricane Centre had ended its tropical storm warning for New Brunswick and parts of Prince Edward Island. Storm surges were expected to subside on Sunday after being forecast as up to 3 feet (0.91 meters) on Saturday along coastal areas, the hurricane center said. AM Best Downgrades Outlook for US Homeowners Segment After Weather Losses A 51-year-old motorist in Searsport, Maine, died Saturday after a large tree limb fell on his vehicle on U.S. Highway 1 during high winds. The limb brought down live power lines and utility workers had to cut power before removing the man, who died later at a hospital, Police Chief Brian Lunt said. The storm was tracked as moving around 22 mph (35 kph) and expected to proceed northeast, taking the weather system across the Canadian Maritimes. Rainfall was expected to be an additional 1 inch (25 millimeters) or less for portions of eastern Maine, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, the U.S. storm center said. A tropical storm warning remained in effect for parts of Nova Scotia, the Magdalen Islands and Prince Edward Island with strong winds possibly leading to downed trees and power outages, the center said. The post-tropical cyclone was strong enough to cause power outages several hundred miles from its center. At midday Saturday, 11% of electricity customers in Maine lacked power, along with 27% of Nova Scotia, 8% of New Brunswick and 3% of Prince Edward Island. Life-threatening surf swells and rip currents generated by Lee may affect Puerto Rico, Hispaniola, the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Bahamas, Bermuda and the U.S. East Coast, the center said. In Bar Harbor, Maine, the touristy gateway to Acadia National Park, a whale watch vessel broke free of its mooring and crashed ashore Saturday. Authorities worked to offload 1,800 gallons (6,813 liters) of diesel fuel to prevent it from spilling into the ocean. Lee flooded coastal roads in Nova Scotia and took ferries out of service while fanning anxiety in a region still reeling from wildfires and severe flooding this summer. The provinces largest airport, Halifax Stanfield International, cancelled all flights. People are exhausted, said Pam Lovelace, a councilor in Halifax. Its so much in such a small time period. Hurricane-force winds extended as far as 140 miles (220 kilometers) from Lees center, with tropical storm-force winds extending as far as 320 miles (515 kilometers), enough to cover all of Maine and much of Maritime Canada. The storm skirted some of the most waterlogged areas of Massachusetts that experienced severe flash flooding days earlier, when fast water washed out roads, caused sinkholes, damaged homes and flooded vehicles. In eastern Maine, winds died down enough by late afternoon Saturday for utility workers to begin using bucket trucks to make repairs. Central Maine Power and Versant Power had hundreds of workers, including out-of-state crews, assisting the effort. At this point, the storm is resembling a noreaster, said Sarah Thunberg, a National Weather Service meteorologist, referring to the fall and winter storms that often plague the region and are so named because their winds blow from the northeast. They typically have a much wider wind field than tropical systems with winds remaining closer to a storms center. The entire region has experienced an especially wet summer, ranking second in the number of rainy days in Portland, Maine and Lees high winds toppled trees stressed by the rain-soaked ground in Maine, the nations most heavily wooded state. Cruise ships found refuge at berths in Portland, Maine, while lobstermen in Bar Harbor and elsewhere pulled traps from the water and hauled boats inland. Billy Bob Faulkingham, House Republican leader of the Maine Legislature, and another lobsterman survived after their boat overturned while hauling traps ahead of the storm Friday, officials said. The boats emergency locator beacon alerted authorities and the pair clung to the hull until help arrived, said Winter Harbor Police Chief Danny Mitchell. The 42-foot (12.8-meter) boat sank. Theyre very lucky to be alive, Mitchell said. Forecasters urged residents to stay home, but many ventured out anyway. Betsy Follansbee and her husband, Fred, jogged to Higgins Beach in Scarborough, Maine, to watch surfers some wearing helmets paddling out to catch waves reaching 12 feet (3.6 meters). They were the biggest waves Follansbee had seen in her 10 years living there, she said. Were impressed that theyre bold enough to try, Follansbee said. On Maines Bailey Island, a slender spit jutting into the Gulf of Maine, Ren Renton watched the ocean roil. It comes and goes and takes what it wants, but hopefully not too much, she said. Lee shared some characteristics with 2012s Superstorm Sandy. Both storms were once-strong hurricanes that became post-tropical cyclones cyclonic storms that have lost most of their tropical characteristics before landfall. Lee was not expected to be nearly as destructive as Sandy, which caused billions of dollars in damage and was blamed for dozens of deaths in New York and New Jersey. Lee also was not anywhere near as severe as the remnants of Hurricane Fiona, which a year ago washed houses into the ocean in eastern Canada, knocked out power to most of two provinces and swept a woman into the sea, Canadian meteorologist Jill Maepea said. Destructive hurricanes are relatively rare so far north. The Great New England Hurricane of 1938 brought gusts as high as 186 mph (300 kph) and sustained winds of 121 mph (195 kph) at Massachusetts Blue Hill Observatory. There have been no storms that powerful in recent years. Top photo: The Eden Star, a 70-foot tour boat, broke free of its mooring during storm Lee, Saturday, Sept. 16, in Bar Harbor, Maine, (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty) Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Windstorm Maine NEW YORK (AP) A 2-year-old boy at a home-based day care center in New York City who showed symptoms of opioid exposure died and three other young children were hospitalized, authorities said. Police responded to a 911 call on Friday afternoon at the day care center in the Bronx to find three children unconscious. All three children were unresponsive and demonstrating symptoms of opioid exposure, Police Chief of Detectives Joe Kenny said at a news conference Friday night from the hospital. Narcan was administered to all three of these children in an attempt to save their lives. The other two were a 2-year-old boy and an 8-month-old girl. Kenny said a search warrant served at the daycare center turned up an item used in the packaging of drugs. This is an active criminal investigation. Kenny said another child, a 2-year-old boy, was removed from the same day care center earlier Friday. Once home, the childs mother noticed that the kid was acting lethargic and unresponsive. He was brought to a hospital where he was administered Narcan and his life was saved, Kenny said. The day care center is licensed. It opened in January and was last inspected on Sept. 9, Kenny said. No violations were observed. City Police Commissioner Edward Caban described what happened as every parent`s worst nightmare and asked people to please pray for them and their families. Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics New York DaVita Renal Care knew it would have to get creative as a blizzard bore down on Western New York last December and stopped travel across the region for several days. The West Seneca clinic served 47 patients who needed dialysis three days per week. Someone can go for five days without dialysis most people can who have end-stage renal disease, said Dr. Richard Quigg, clinic medical director. You go beyond that, then you start to have problems that you cant undo. The DaVita staff had to improvise. They opened early Friday as the blizzard gathered steam and treated all of their 60 dialysis patients, regardless of whether they normally had an appointment on Fridays. More than half made it back on Tuesday and the clinic was pretty close to normal by Wednesday. We knew in advance what was going to happen, so we planned as best we could, said Quigg, also chief of the Division of Nephrology in the University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. Thanks in large part to the clinic staffs quick thinking, DaVitas dialysis patients all managed to weather the storm. But there may be an easier way for some of those dialysis patients as well others with pressing medical needs to get care they need during future blizzards: special needs shelters equipped to help those who need specialized care and medical equipment that requires electricity. Many counties in Florida, including Miami-Dade and Broward, open and provide transportation to special needs shelters during hurricanes and other disasters. People who may need the shelters are encouraged to apply in advance and treat them as a last resort if they have no other options. Special needs shelters have found their way north, too. Suffolk County has a similar program in place for natural disasters. The City of Buffalo established several daytime warming shelters for the general population during the December blizzard, but two of them in the Lovejoy District lost power and there were none in the Old First Ward, according to a New York University blizzard report commissioned by the City of Buffalo. Officials also failed to tell city residents how they could safely get to a shelter. The NYU report noted that Buffalo has since started establishing more warming shelters with backup generators for use during future storms. 'You have to be ready for a war': Severe storms, power outages leave caregivers and their loved ones feeling helpless Older Americans will rely on in-home caregiving from family or paid aides more and more often as the population ages. Adults and children with disabilities need the critical help caregivers provide. At the same time, severe weather events are increasingly common, making potential solutions especially for the most vulnerable more pressing. Dr. Geovanny Perez said some of his patients used Floridas robust special needs shelters when he was a medical resident at Miami Childrens Hospital. They already know the trajectory [of the hurricane], so they will move all our ventilator patients, said Perez, a pediatric pulmonologist at Oishei Childrens Hospital in Buffalo and chief of the Division of Pediatric Pulmonology at the UB Jacobs School. Miami-Dade hospitals make room for some of these patients, as do hotels that have power generators, thanks to a collaboration between the government and regional health care system. Perez said most of his patients in Western New York can get through blizzards with existing resources. They will stay with an out-of-town family member, buy a generator ahead of time or come up with other arrangements. Health care providers pitch in by helping patients and caregivers create a backup plan before they leave the hospital. Providers also give electric and gas companies a list of homes where someone needs electricity to survive. Still, patients fall through the cracks from time to time, he said. Usually, those gaps are with families that are either underserved or are poor, or they might not have access to go anywhere, Perez said. Buffalo has seen an influx of refugees and immigrants, so they might not know the system, or they might not have anybody else around, and thats difficult. Erie County already has one component needed to start a special needs shelter. Residents with disabilities or medical needs can add themselves to a functional needs registry form through Erie Countys website so county workers can assist before, during and after an emergency situation. Individuals who are on dialysis, who are on oxygen, who have developmental disabilities, who are deaf, they can fill out that form, so we have that information prior to an emergency situation happening, Deputy County Executive Lisa Chimera said. With or without a registry, special needs shelters will only help if storm warnings are widely and clearly communicated to people in need and the temporary lodgings are implemented correctly, said Lindsay Peterson, research assistant professor in the School of Aging Studies at the University of South Florida. Erie County, snowmobile clubs working on formal blizzard response agreement Erie County has reached an agreement in principle with the Erie County Snowmobile Federation to help in snow emergencies after start-and-stop talks going back nearly a decade. Peterson was part of a research team that received a National Institutes of Health grant to study the effects of Hurricane Irma in Florida in 2017 on nursing home and assisted living residents, which led her to become more curious about disaster preparedness as it relates to caregiving. She is familiar with special needs shelters run by counties across Florida. Overall, she said, many caregivers in Florida are not necessarily inclined to go with a loved one to a shelter. When Hurricane Irma struck the states Gulf Coast and the even-more-destructive Hurricane Ian wreaked havoc in southwest Florida nearly a year ago, places including Palmetto Ridge High School in Naples became special needs shelters. That shelter has a capacity of 764. During Hurricane Ian, it housed 354 people and 11 animals, said Betsy Clayton, director of the Lee County Office of Communications. This raises questions about the extent of its use. Do communications and awareness of the availability of special-needs shelters need to be enhanced? Such shelters are promoted by agencies serving older residents, such as the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida website, but is that sufficient? One insight disaster officials and researchers have come to is that many people prefer to ride out a storm at home. According to the Reuters news agency last year, many southwestern Floridians chose to stay at home rather than go elsewhere as Hurricane Ian approached. Some who had had their loved ones in a shelter had bad experiences of the person they were with being disoriented and upset, Peterson said. And others were just frightened by the thought of the person they care for being in this environment, that it is a shelter, but its chaotic. Its noisy. Theres no privacy. Some caregivers worry their loved one would not be near a restroom, she said, or that they might wind up having to change clothes in the view of others. She cited the experiences of people in an assisted living facility who were evacuated during one storm at the last minute to a shelter. The people there didnt know where they were, they didnt know why they were there, Peterson said. They didnt feel comfortable. Many of them were crying. And so this is an area of concern. Available water and electricity are key to make shelters thrive, she said, but her research also points to the need for accurate and timely natural disaster forecasts, a more robust public embrace well in advance of an emergency about how to sign up and where to go for help, and a better understanding of those who operate and serve at shelters about how to create a sense of normalcy. Peterson cited supplying foods the person needing care likes, and in some cases making it possible to be sheltered with a pet. Perhaps more important, she suggested shelters follow the comfort room model seen at airports that offer quiet, soft environments for people with dementia and anxiety. Special needs is more related to a specific health care or medical need, Peterson said, not so much a mental health need or emotional health need. And thats what I think is lacking." Special needs shelters served as many as 9,600 people during Hurricane Katrina, but a 2006 report by the National Council on Disability found many were unequipped or unwilling to help people with disabilities, sometimes separating families. Many didnt have enough staff, beds or supplies, including oxygen tanks or wheelchairs. Some in need were unable to get to a shelter because they lacked accessible transportation. Despite the inaccessibility of many shelters to people with disabilities, other shelters succeeded and can be used as models for further success, the report reads. The operators of those shelters were not experienced emergency managers; rather, the key to their success was their attitude of inclusiveness. Grant Ashley is a reporter with The Buffalo News and Justice Marbury is a reporter with the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle. This story was produced through the New York & Michigan Solutions Journalism Collaborative, a partnership of news organizations and universities dedicated to rigorous and compelling reporting about successful responses to social problems. The reporting is supported by the Solutions Journalism Network. Read related stories at nymisojo.com, where you also can find a detailed Caregiving Resource Guide with links to online information about various issues of interest to caregivers. In 2021, a series of HSBC advertisements started appearing on bus stops around the UK. Part of a campaign centered on the slogan Climate change doesnt do borders, the posters paired images of trees and ocean waves with statements about the banks efforts to finance the transition to net zero and help plant 2 million trees. Adfree Cities, a campaign group that targets street ads, wasnt having it. The group complained about the HSBC campaign to the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), a UK industry regulator. In its review of the complaint, the ASA found that HSBC had sent $130 billion of financing to fossil fuel companies in recent years. The agency banned the ads for greenwashing. An HSBC spokesperson says the financial sector has a responsibility to communicate its role in the low-carbon transition, adding that the bank has made good progress, including publishing an updated energy policy and expanding our financed emissions targets to more sectors. But Guy Parker, chief executive officer of the ASA, says HSBC needed to be clearer with consumers about its fossil fuel funding. The ads were nixed not because what they were saying in the ads was untrue, Parker told Bloomberg Green. But because of what they werent saying. HSBC isnt alone: Since 2021, the ASA has banned three fossil fuel advertising campaigns on the same grounds, plus ads from companies as varied as Oatly (oat milk), Unilever (laundry detergent) and Lufthansa (air travel). The ASA isnt alone, either. Globally, regulators are starting to fight back against greenwashing, or the practice of misleading consumers on sustainability. In the UK, where the ASA operates, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is investigating major fashion brands over vague green claims. The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) lists sustainability communication among its key priorities, and in Italy an oil company was fined 5 million for calling its diesel green. The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is currently updating its guidelines on sustainable claims, and last year fined Kohls and Walmart for marketing rayon fabric as bamboo. This is an important moment in greenwashing regulation, essentially because there hasnt been one before, says Jonathan White, a lawyer at ClientEarth, an environmental law charity. If you look across jurisdictions, from the UK to the EU to the US, even elsewhere to Asia, you get the very clear sense that legislators and regulators are doing something about this and want to be seen to be doing something about this. The range of agencies tackling greenwashing is indicative of its ambiguity and breadth. Dubious sustainability claims can be found in TV commercials, print ads, online ads, product descriptions and on packaging, not all of which are regulated by the same bodies. Theres also evidence that the prevalence of green claims is increasing. A 2014 study by the European Commission found that 76% of non-food products carried an environmental claim, either implicitly or explicitly. According to to a report by UK consumer research agency Mintel, 46% of beauty and hygiene products carried environmental or ethical claims in 2019, up from 27% in 2015. Another study by Australias Consumer Policy Research Centre (CPRC) found that a consumer in Australia might see 122 green claims within a 24-hour period. Less than a third had any verification or detail to allow someone to assess their accuracy. Consumers are getting tired and disillusioned. A UK survey released on Monday by the consultancy KPMG found that a third of people were skeptical of green labels and sustainability claims, and over half would stop buying from a company found to have engaged in greenwashing. The boom in green claims reflects growing consumer attention: In one recent survey, 68% of Americans said they would choose a more environmentally friendly product even if it cost more. That enthusiasm presents a big opportunity for advertisers, and a big challenge for regulators who dont always have mechanisms in place to push back on incomplete claims. Australia, for example, prohibits companies from misleading or deceiving consumers, and from engaging in unconscionable conduct. But Erin Turner, chief executive officer at the CPRC, says many advertising claims dont meet that high a bar theyre more likely to be vague, or minimally justified, than actively deceptive. One company, for instance, claimed Our freezers are greener in an ad, begging the question: Greener than what? My sense is that the Australian regulators are looking to use their powers to the limit on greenwashing, Turner says. But the powers [that] regulators have arent fully going to deal with the problem. Turner describes greenwashing as an unfair trade practice that does repeated low-level harm to a wide population of customers, something local laws arent currently equipped to tackle. In Hong Kong, some of the most successful greenwashing regulation has focused on energy-efficiency claims. After the Hong Kong Consumer Council (HKCC) conducted tests that found certain dehumidifiers were less efficient than claimed when used with HEPA filters, the dehumidifiers were recalled by the government. In the US, successful FTC cases have likewise focused on the materials and properties of products think rayon labeled as bamboo, or paint marketed as emissions-free. When we look overseas, there are a number of things we can learn, says HKCC Chief Executive Officer Gilly Wong, citing the FTCs Green Guides in the US and the CMAs Green Claims Code in the UK. The pace has to be in sync and cant be slowed down and even has to be accelerated, to attack all of these kinds of claims. While regulation is the order of the day in Europe, in the US some green claims are scrutinized through legal action. In June, Oregons Multnomah County sued a handful of oil companies over a 2021 heat dome it described as a direct and foreseeable consequence of the companies decision to publicly downplay fossil fuel pollution. Oil majors have called the suit unproductive. The city of New York and the state of Connecticut have also brought cases against oil companies for misleading the public about the climate-changing effects of fossil fuels. Europes regulators are far more active, whereas cycles of enforcement through litigation are more likely to determine whether a similar level of attention emerges in the US, says Danny Cullenward, a senior fellow at the University of Pennsylvanias Kleinman Center for Energy Policy. There are signs, including public client advisories from law firms that advise major corporations, that high-priced US lawyers see this coming. The UKs Grantham Institute identified 26 such climate-washing cases globally in 2022, compared with fewer than 10 in 2020. While the US dominates, other countries are also taking alleged greenwashers to court. A German company was sued in 2020 for describing its fruit jam as climate-neutral, and last year a Netherlands judge ruled that Chiquita couldnt call its bananas climate-neutral. In the US, a complaint filed to the Securities and Exchange Commission in February by the nonprofit Global Witness alleges that Shell overstated its investments in renewable energy, a charge the company denies. The Grantham Institute report also identified legal challenges to state-sponsored greenwashing. One such challenge, brought by an Australian think tank, claims that a government-backed Climate Active certification is misleading and applied too broadly. Every approach to tackling greenwashing has its limitations. Even the most active regulators have a Whac-a-Mole problem thanks to the proliferation of sustainability claims. Litigation is inherently reactive, and doesnt necessarily prevent future violations. The same goes for banning ads; its a slow process that doesnt stop oil and gas companies from continuing to develop new campaigns. The FTC, meanwhile, has split priorities. Its charged with both consumer protection and antitrust, including high-profile cases against Big Tech. Im concerned that even with a strong update to the Green Guides, there is still an enforcement gap, says Cullenward. One that requires personnel, prioritization and encouragement from senior policymakers. In some cases, the limitations have to do with the sheer variety of green products and promises. Identifying a sustainable cleaning product, for example, might involve evaluating claims about emissions, plastic use, water waste and packaging recyclability. Greenwashing is also different from traditional consumer-protection causes, such as misleading health claims, in that it can focus more directly on harm to the natural world than harm to the consumer. The consumer protection laws only go so far because they ultimately are aiming to protect free and informed consumer choice, says White at ClientEarth. Theyre not aiming to protect future generations. Talk to those involved in greenwashing regulation, though, and youll get the impression that advertisers are on notice. Its no longer possible to claim ignorance of the rules around green advertising, even if plenty of companies ignore them. Parker at the ASA takes partial credit for the pressure thats been put on companies it targeted, noting that HSBC announced in December that it would stop funding new oil and gas projects. Cecilia Parker Aranha, director of consumer protection at the UKs CMA, says its conversations with fashion companies suggest they are scrutinizing their supply chains to better support claims about environmental harm. Last year, Asos removed its responsible edit filter and collection after it became aware of a CMA investigation. The CMA is also planning to look at other practices, including those that cut across industries, like using carbon offsets in emissions claims. I expect, from a regulatory perspective, more countries will start to get more specific on what you can and cant do, Aranha says. As greenwashing enforcement spins up, ad agencies in particular may find themselves caught between clients eager to make sustainability claims and regulators looking to scrutinize them. Oil companies could struggle to secure an agency at all: When Shells advertising account went up for grabs this year, few agencies admitted publicly to pitching for it. Globally, 688 agencies have signed a pledge not to work with clients in polluting industries, according to campaign group Clean Creatives. You need to make sure the organizations you are working with are sound, Suzanne Barker, a strategy partner at ad agency AMV BBDO, said at a Bloomberg Live event this year. If we have clients who want to talk about something and its just not true, or they dont have that story to tell, then we have to say no. There are also growing calls for one simple fix: treating oil and gas more like tobacco. A 2005 treaty established rules around the promotion and sales of tobacco products, significantly limiting ads for them in the process. It has since been signed by 182 countries covering 90% of the worlds population. Where it ends is the call for something that is more holistic, like the tobacco control treaty, that basically [would] prohibit all fossil fuel advertising, all fossil fuel involvement in public policy, along with all of the price and tax measures, says White. That piece of net zero governance is where this goes. With assistance from Tiffany Tsoi and Katharine Gemmell. Top photograph: A thermometer reading 116F during a heat wave in Portland, Oregon, in June 2021. Photo credit: Maranie Staab/Bloomberg Copyright 2023 Bloomberg. Blockchain researchers say North Korea-linked hackers are likely behind a $70 million theft from crypto exchange CoinEx. CoinEx, which says it is based in Hong Kong, said on Tuesday on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, that wallets used to store the exchanges crypto assets had been hacked. It said on Friday it estimates its losses at $70 million, which it said is a small portion of its total assets. Blockchain research firm Elliptic said that a number of factors indicate that the Lazarus Group a hacker group associated with North Korea was responsible for the attack. CoinEx has not said who it believes was behind the attack, although it has told Reuters it is aware that some security firms have claimed cyber-espionage teams linked to North Korea were to blame. The hackers identity remains under investigation, CoinEx told Reuters via email early on Friday. CoinEx did not respond to a Reuters comment request sent via email later on Friday, outside of Hong Kong hours, about Elliptics research, which was published in a blog post. Elliptic said that some of the funds stolen from CoinEx were sent to a crypto wallet address which had previously been used by the Lazarus Group to launder stolen funds. The funds were also sent to the Ethereum blockchain using a blockchain bridge a way of transferring funds between different blockchains which had also previously been used by the Lazarus Group. North Koreas mission to the United Nations in New York did not respond to a Reuters comment request sent via email. Another blockchain research firm, Chainalysis, told Reuters on Thursday it had medium-high confidence that North Korea was behind the attack. Elliptic said the Lazarus Group appears to have recently ramped up its operations, stealing around $240 million worth of crypto assets in four separate attacks since the beginning of June, in addition to the CoinEx attack. North Korea stepped up its cryptocurrency theft last year, using sophisticated techniques to steal more in 2022 than any other year, according to a United Nations report. Sanctions monitors have previously accused North Korea of using cyberattacks to help fund its nuclear and missile programs. North Korea has previously denied allegations of hacking or other cyberattacks. (Reporting by Elizabeth Howcroft and Raphael Satter, editing by Louise Heavens) Topics Cyber Fraud Authorities detained some staff of the money management business of China Evergrande Group, a sign that the saga around the defaulted developer at the heart of the nations property crisis has entered a new phase involving the criminal justice system. The companys shares plunged as much as 25% after trading opened in Hong Kong, before paring its loss to 1.6% at close. The stock extended this years decline to 63%. Police in the southern city of Shenzhen said in a statement on Saturday that they had recently detained staff, identifying one of the detainees by the last name Du. No charges were disclosed and the statement didnt say how many people were in custody. Police called on investors to provide leads to the authorities, including filing complaints online. China Provides Assurances that Evergrande Crisis Is Being Contained Evergrande Financial Wealth Management Co., based in Shenzhen, is a wholly owned Evergrande unit established in 2015. The firms general manager is Du Liang, according to his Linkedin profile. Bloomberg News wasnt able to verify that he is among the detainees. Evergrande sits at the center of a credit crisis that has rippled through Chinas real estate sector and curtailed growth in the worlds second-largest economy. The debt-laden developer has offloaded a range of assets, including trophy land parcels and stakes in other financial institutions. China Evergrande confirmed the detentions on Monday but argued it wont be affected. The imposition of criminal coercive measures on the relevant personnel of Evergrande Wealth in accordance with the law will not affect the companys operations, it said in an exchange filing. The detentions come as China started a campaign against illegal fundraising to protect consumers. Li Yunze, head of Chinas National Administration of Financial Regulation, vowed in a Friday speech to deal with a number of major cases to protect the rights and interest of consumers. More broadly, Beijing has been engaged in a crackdown on alleged corruption in the nations finance industry since 2021, handing out severe penalties, including the death penalty, to top executives. Evergrande missed payments on 40 billion yuan ($5.6 billion) of wealth management products in 2021, sparking nationwide demonstrations and putting pressure on Beijing to find a solution to avoid further unrest. More than 70,000 people had bought the products, including many Evergrande employees, as the cash-strapped developer tapped them for funding. The money management arm of Evergrande said Aug. 31 that it couldnt make payments due on investment products because of a liquidity crunch. China Evergrande is undergoing the countrys biggest restructuring ever, and the protracted process remains in limbo as key votes on its offshore-debt revamp plan were further delayed to October. The government has also set up a joint venture to take over China Evergrandes insurance arm. State-backed Hai Gang Life will run Evergrande Life Assurance Co., according to notices issued by the National Administration of Financial Regulation on Friday. In Mondays statement, Evergrande also said it saw no significant impact on its current business operations from the sale of Evergrande Life. With assistance from Christopher Anstey. Photograph: The China Evergrande Group headquarters in Shenzhen, China, on Thursday, Sept. 30, 2021. Photo credit: Gilles Sabrie/Bloomberg Related: Copyright 2023 Bloomberg. Topics Law Enforcement New Markets Property China The Hartford said it expanded its digital capabilities with new submission and quote Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), and portal options for agents and brokers who write midsize and large businesses. The new capabilities save time, provide faster turnaround, and increase accuracy giving agents and brokers easier access to share submission data and request a quote for general liability, auto, property and workers compensation accounts. Our digital capabilities are built on agent and broker feedback. These new digital experiences are another example of The Hartford listening to its distribution partners and innovating to create improved customer experiences, said A. Morris Mo Tooker, head of middle, large, specialty commercial, and enterprise sales & distribution at The Hartford. Additional benefits of the new portal include: Faster speed to market; Ability to quickly share data and information; Easier submissions with pre-populated data; Increased accuracy; and Streamlined workflow. Access to the new business submission process is available through direct API capabilities and online portals. The Hartford will also enable API operating relationships with agents and brokers who use vendor API solutions for their midsize, large and specialty accounts. The insurer has partnered with Highwing, Inc., a company that is focused on providing data management and processing solutions for both brokers and carriers. Highwing helps to seamlessly connect agents and brokers with carriers, ensuring open communication, transparency, and accurate data sharing with The Hartford. These digital enhancements are in addition to the companys Electronic Business Center (EBC) Agent Portal. SOURCE: The Hartford Private equity firm Advent International is exploring a sale of CCC Intelligent Solutions Holdings Inc., a provider of software to the car insurance industry that has a market value of $7.1 billion, people familiar with the matter said on Friday. Investment bank Morgan Stanley is advising CCC on its talks with potential acquirers, which include other buyout firms, the sources said, adding that no deal is certain. CCC representatives did not immediately respond to a request for comment, while Advent, which holds a 56% stake in the company, declined to comment. Morgan Stanley did not immediately respond to a request for comment. CCC shares jumped on the news in afterhours trading in New York on Friday, rising 8.6% to $12.50. Founded in 1980, CCC provides software to 35,0000 companies involved in automotive claims and collision repair, including insurance firms, parts suppliers and car manufacturers. Advent, which acquired CCC from private equity firms TPG Inc. and Leonard Green & Partners in 2017, took CCC public through a merger with a blank-check company in 2021 at a $6.5 billion equity valuation. CCC shares have risen 32% year-to-date, more than the broader market but less than the S&P 500 software application index, which has risen 43%. CCC suffered from a drop in car insurance claims during the COVID-19 pandemic but has since seen business gradually recover. CCC reported total revenue of $211.7 million for the second quarter of 2023, up 10% from $192.8 million a year earlier. Adjusted gross profit was $162.0 million, compared with $148.4 million a year ago. (Reporting by Milana Vinn in New York; editing by Diane Craft) Topics Auto NEW ORLEANS (AP) Increases in federal flood insurance premiums that are projected to surpass 700% over the coming years are already leading people to back out of home purchases and will likely lead to an exodus of residents and businesses from southern Louisiana, officials told a federal judge Thursday in New Orleans. The testimony came in a hearing in a lawsuit Louisiana and nine other states filed against the federal government to block sharp increases in national flood insurance rates. A phase-in of the new rates began in 2021. Annual increases are limited to 18%. The Federal Emergency Management Agency said the new method of computing rates has resulted in reductions or little or no increase for most policy holders. But FEMA figures also show huge impending increases in some Louisiana ZIP codes. State and local officials who testified Thursday said the increases are expected to result in some people in working-class southern Louisiana to abandon their mortgages, try to sell homes that have been in families for generations, or drop their insurance. We`ve already seen a slowdown in new building, said Matt Jewell, president of St. Charles Parish, west of New Orleans. The implications go beyond blows to the real estate market and tax revenue. Officials said lower revenue could also hamper flood prevention and mitigation efforts. And some federal disaster programs require people in certain areas to have flood insurance which the officials argued is becoming unaffordable. State attorneys said during arguments before U.S. District Judge Darrel Papillion that participation in the National Flood Insurance Program requires that local governments adopt building-elevation policies and flood-control efforts that often require taxes approved by voters believing the mitigation efforts will hold rates down. They turned us into liars, state Solicitor General Liz Murrill told Papillion. Papillion was hearing arguments on the federal government`s motion to dismiss the suit and on the states` motion for an injunction blocking the rate increases pending further court proceedings. It was unclear if he would rule Thursday. Florida, Idaho, Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana, North Dakota, South Carolina, Texas and Virginia are the other states listed as plaintiffs, along with some local governments and flood control bodies in Louisiana. FEMA has said its new premium system is an improvement over past methods, incorporating data that wasnt used in the past, including scientific models and costs involved in rebuilding a home. The agency has said the old method could result in people with lower-valued homes paying more than a fair share, while those with higher-value homes pay relatively less. A return to the old system of calculating premiums would not guarantee a reduction of rates, Justice Department attorney Yoseph Desta argued. He and other government attorneys argued Thursday that the new rate plan had been in the works for years, that the states had plenty of opportunity for input, and that the lawsuit, filed months after the phase-in began, was filed too late. They also argued the states have no standing to sue over the rates set by the National Flood Insurance Program. Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Legislation Louisiana Flood Wanted in South Carolina: $1 million in liquor liability coverage at an affordable premium to prevent closure of establishment. Thats the type of advertisement one can imagine bars and bistros across the Palmetto State running this fall, as the full impact of state laws become painfully clear. A million-dollar liquor liability insurance requirement, along with South Carolinas joint-and-several tort statute that can hold a dram shop liable for millions in damages plus the result of some recent high-profile lawsuits has had insurance agents and brokers scrambling to find coverage for some of the states favorite watering holes and restaurants. Its just out of hand. Its a crazy thing, said Tom Bates, market president of the Stokes-Farnham Insurance Agency in Greenville. Ive tried to go to the standard market first, but if you have any kind of hair on your account, you have to go to the excess and surplus market. Bates told the story of a locally-owned, popular wing restaurant. Liquor sales are only about 30% of the restaurants total sales, well below the 50% alcohol sales threshold that would trigger the requirement for $1 million in liability coverage. But because the eatery had a claim recently, carriers have become leery. Five standard carriers have declined to write a policy, and the wing place cant afford the much-higher E&S lines premiums. The wing shop is now about to go out of business, Bates said. Others across the state are in same position, according to local news reports, insurance leaders and restaurant trade representatives. Some establishments have said their premiums have more than tripled, to as much as $350,000 a year for a relatively small bistro, said Susan Cohen, president of the South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association. News reports have quoted other bars as saying that their rates increased by 10-fold. The issue began in 2017, when the South Carolina General Assembly mandated the million-dollar minimum following a car crash by a drunken driver that killed two people and severely injured a police officer. Neither the driver nor the drinking establishment had liability insurance, leaving the officers county employer to pay the medical expenses. Few at the time realized what an impact the law would have on mom-and-pop bars and restaurants. The $1 million minimum liquor liability coverage is not unusual. Several states, including Florida, have statutes requiring that much or more. But in South Carolina, insurance had never been required by law before 2017. Some dram shops carried it, others did not. Any time you have coverage that was an option that then becomes a mandated coverage by law, its either going to keep you in business or put you out of business, Bates said. And its putting a lot of people out of business right now. The hospitality industry also has long complained about South Carolinas joint-and-several statute, which can hold a business mostly responsible for damages even if it was only peripherally involved. Some states have modified their liability and tort laws. The Florida Legislature this year, for example, drastically limited what a plaintiff can recover in a lawsuit if the plaintiff is shown to be partly responsible. South Carolinas joint liability law was highlighted this year by two well-publicized cases. In June, a woman was charged with felony DUI and reckless homicide after she crashed her car into a Charleston woman who had just been married. The drivers blood-alcohol level was three times the legal limit, authorities said. Four drinking and eating establishments are now being sued for their role in providing alcohol to the driver, although it has yet to be shown which bar actually caused the intoxication, according to Cohen and local news reports. Also this year, the famous saga of convicted South Carolina attorney Alex Murdaugh and his family included a convenience store chain agreeing to pay $15.5 million to settle a civil lawsuit. Parkers Kitchen, near Charleston, was shown to have sold beer to Murdaughs underage son in 2019. The youth, Paul Murdaugh, showed the identification card of his similar-looking, older brother. Paul then crashed a boat into a bridge, killing a 19-year-old girl who was thrown from the craft. Three insurers will pay the bulk of the settlement. The attorney for Parkers owner said the settlement was necessitated by South Carolinas joint-and-several liability law. The application of the joint and several liability laws in South Carolina meant that, if Parkers was found even 1% at fault, it would have paid for the entirety of any verdict rendered against the Murdaugh family, attorney PK Shere told the Associated Press in July. The unfairness of that caused Parkers insurance carriers to resolve these suits to avoid paying the likely award intended to punish Alex Murdaugh. And litigation is on the rise. Perkins Coie, a law firm that tracks class-action lawsuits, said in August that 214 suits were filed against food and beverage companies in 2022 and 101 were filed in the first six months of this year. In 2010, just 45 suits were filed, the Associated Press reported. All of the above appear to have created a perfect storm in South Carolina, making a number of insurance companies non-renew many policies, raise premiums for others, or pull back from the market altogether. The joint-and-several liability problem its not just about bars and restaurants now. Its also about the homeowner who serves someone a glass of wine at their home, Cohen said. Weddings and concert venues also have been affected. It affects multiple lines of insurance, said Frank Sheppard, president of the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of South Carolina. The plight of bars and restaurants may earn little sympathy from elected leaders in a Bible-Belt state where, even though the majority of lawmakers are considered pro-business Republicans, trial lawyers have a strong influence, Sheppard explained. On the other hand, coastal Carolina, with its famous Myrtle Beach and history-rich Charleston, depend heavily on tourist-generated revenue at bars and restaurants. Food and beverage establishments have tasted a little bit of hope lately. The Alcohol Beverage Licensing Division of the state Department of Revenue this month posted an advisory opinion, noting that a liquor liability policy providing total, aggregate coverage of $1 million not $1 million per incident as many had thought would satisfy the requirements of the 2017 law. That could make it somewhat more affordable for smaller establishments to afford coverage, Sheppard and Bates said. And a bill was introduced in the state legislature earlier this year that would significantly alter the joint-and-several liability landscape. Senate Bill 533, with multiple sponsors, would allow juries to apportion fault in more cases. The bill did not make it past a Senate committee last spring, but it and a companion House bill can be considered when lawmakers convene again in 2024. We wish the Legislature would do something about it, said Scott Moseley, with Irmo Insurance Agency, near Columbia. Otherwise, South Carolina is going to be an outlier among all the states. Lawmakers this year did ask the state Department of Insurance to look into the business communitys concerns. The DOI in June held a data call, seeking information from carriers on why liability insurance costs have soared. The data was still being analyzed as of last week and the department does not yet have an estimate on when a report will be completed, a DOI spokesperson said. Even if more palatable liability laws or regulations are put in place, those may not be enough to bring down liability premiums, Bates, the Greenville agent, said. He has called for a type of state-backed, assigned-risk fund or association, perhaps similar to residual workers compensation insurance funds that cover hard-to-insure businesses in some states, or wind associations that cover vulnerable homeowners that cant find coverage in the primary market. The state needs to come up with something, Bates said. Topics South Carolina RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) Officials in North Carolina have denied a permit for a Christmas parade after a truck towing a float struck and killed a girl during last years event. The city of Raleigh announced Thursday that it denied the Greater Raleigh Merchants Associations request for a permit for the Raleigh Christmas Parade, news outlets reported. The decision was made out of an abundance of caution for parade participants and spectators, as well as respect for Hailey Brooks family and friends, according to a city statement. Hailey Brooks, 11, was killed during last years parade when she was hit by a pickup truck towing a float after the driver lost control. Landen Glass, then 20, was initially charged with misdemeanor death by motor vehicle, careless and reckless driving, improper equipment, unsafe movement and carrying a firearm in a parade. In March, a grand jury elevated his charges to felony involuntary manslaughter. The Brooks family was not consulted and they oppose the decision to deny the parade permit, according to attorney Jason Miller. The Brooks family is disappointed that the city of Raleigh chose to cancel its 2023 Raleigh Christmas Parade rather than adopt basic safety measures to protect the community, Miller said. The merchants association is saddened by the decision, Executive Director Jennifer Martin said. The parade has been a Raleigh tradition for 78 years that brings the community together and provides joy to hundreds of thousands and allows families near and far to make countless memories, she said in a statement. The association is ready, willing and able to continue this tradition as soon as the city of Raleigh allows it to return, Martin said. Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics North Carolina The state of California filed a lawsuit against some of the worlds largest oil and gas companies, claiming they deceived the public about the risks of fossil fuels now faulted for climate change-related storms and wildfires that caused billions of dollars in damage, officials said Saturday. The civil lawsuit filed in state Superior Court in San Francisco also seeks creation of a fund, financed by the companies, to pay for recovery efforts following devastating storms and fires. Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a statement the companies named in the lawsuit, Exxon Mobil, Shell, Chevron, ConocoPhillips and BP, should be held accountable. For more than 50 years, Big Oil has been lying to us, covering up the fact that theyve long known how dangerous the fossil fuels they produce are for our planet, Newsom said. California taxpayers shouldnt have to foot the bill for billions of dollars in damages, wildfires wiping out entire communities, toxic smoke clogging our air, deadly heat waves, record-breaking droughts parching our wells. This ongoing, coordinated campaign to wage meritless, politicized lawsuits against a foundational American industry and its workers is nothing more than a distraction from important national conversations and an enormous waste of California taxpayer resources, institute senior vice president Ryan Meyers said in a statement. That was echoed in a statement from Shell, which said the courtroom is not the proper venue to address global warming. Addressing climate change requires a collaborative, society-wide approach, the energy giant said. We agree that action is needed now on climate change, and we fully support the need for society to transition to a lower-carbon future. California`s legal action joins similar lawsuits filed by states and municipalities in recent years. Californias suit adds to the growing momentum to hold Big Oil accountable for its decades of deception, and secure access to justice for people and communities suffering from fossil-fueled extreme weather and slow onset disasters such as sea level rise, Kathy Mulvey of the Union of Concerned Scientists said in an email. The 135-page complaint argues that the companies have known since at least the 1960s that the burning of fossil fuels would warm the planet and change the climate, but they downplayed the looming threat in public statements and marketing. It said the companies` scientists knew as far back as the 1950s that the climate impacts would be catastrophic, and that there was only a narrow window of time in which communities and governments could respond. Instead, the lawsuit said, the companies mounted a disinformation campaign beginning at least as early as the 1970s to discredit a growing scientific consensus on climate change, and disputed climate change-related risks. State Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a statement that the companies have fed us lies and mistruths to further their record-breaking profits at the expense of our environment. Enough is enough. Allegations in the lawsuit include faulting the companies for creating or contributing to climate change in California, false advertising, damage to natural resources and unlawful business practices for deceiving the public about climate change. Richard Wiles, president of the Center for Climate Integrity, said in a statement that Californias decision to take Big Oil companies to court is a watershed moment in the rapidly expanding legal fight to hold major polluters accountable for decades of climate lies. Californians have been living in a climate emergency caused by the fossil fuel industry, and now the state is taking decisive action to make those polluters pay. Heavily Democratic California is the birthplace of the modern environmental movement, and the Newsom administration is pushing to expand solar power and other clean energy as the state aims to cut emissions by 40% below 1990 levels by 2030. For decades, California was one of the leading oil producers in the country, with a bustling industry that was a pillar in the state economy. The state is now the nations seventh-largest oil producer, according to federal data. But state regulators have banned the sale of most new gas-powered cars in California by 2035. And Newsom signed a new law earlier this year that gives state regulators the power to penalize oil companies for making too much money, the first of its kind in the country. While the state is considered a leader in addressing climate change, Newsom has not always lined up with the environmental advocacy wing. There have been tensions over updates the states aging water delivery system, clashes over new permits for oil and gas wells and what to do with water from rivers swollen by powerful storms, with activists alarmed that diverting too much water would be a death sentence for salmon and other threatened fish species. Newsom was once a leading voice to shutter the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant, the state`s last, but changed course last year and helped pave the way for a potentially longer operating run beyond what had been a planned closing by 2025, leading to criticism from leading environmental groups that has sought its closure. ___ Associated Press writer Adam Beam in Sacramento contributed. Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Lawsuits California Windstorm Energy Oil Gas Large numbers of Irish tourists visiting the 'bucket-list' destination of Las Vegas in the US last year contributed to pre-tax profits increasing almost six-fold to 5.9m at the Club Travel group. Director at Club Travel, Colman Burke, said that large numbers booking breaks to Las Vegas, Cancun and Dubai was a feature of last years business performance. Mr Burke said that these destinations have taken off, especially after covid-19. He said: People have taken advantage of the post-covid savings and splurged on more expensive holidays." He added: "Las Vegas is a prime example of a bucket list destination, appealing to many people in their 30s and 40s who on average spend around 1,200 per person on accommodation and flights on a four-night trip. Mr Burke said that the typical profile of those going to Las Vegas is not stag parties but made up of couples and sometimes groups of couples. He said that the firms Las Vegas business is not really seeing an impact from the upcoming U2 concerts at the Sphere venue which start next week. Consolidated accounts for Club Travel Holdings Ltd show that the business recorded the sharp increase after revenues increased by 504% from 23.12m to 139.67m in the 12 months to the end of October last. The directors state that, since October last, group trading has experienced more growth and the directors expect that further growth in trading and profitability levels will be achieved. However, there was no Irish rain dividend to the business arising from the poor weather here in July and August this year. Asked did the bad weather provide the business with a sun-holiday boost, Mr Burke said that there was none really. He said: By the time July and August came around, there was very little available and only at high prices. If you dont want to get left out in the rain, you need to book early. Last years rebound post-covid further strengthened the groups balance sheet with shareholder funds of 63.85m. The groups cash funds increased from 60.2m to 63.8m. Numbers employed increased from 160 to 180 as staff costs rose from 5.22m to 7.95m. Key management personnel shared 795,332. The business availed of covid-related Government supports of 1.49m last year and directors state that the availability of such supports assisted the company in maintaining employee numbers and operational activity over the affected period. The group recorded post-tax profits of 5.04m after paying corporation tax of 865,062. On last years performance, owner of the business, Liam Lonergan said: We didnt know what the year might bring so we were pleased by the outturn. Leisure holiday demand was strong. Business travel took a little longer to take off but then it took off strongly in March 2022. Mr Burke said that the group's corporate travel had by the end of the year recovered to about 80% of 2019 levels. He said: The performance was excellent, considering the challenges posed by the sudden return of business in April. Retaining staff during the pandemic was a priority, and with the help of the Government supports, we were fortunate to retain our strong and experienced team which enabled us to ramp back up quickly. Mr Burke said that Spain and Portugal remain the No.1 destinations in Europe for Irish holidaymakers. ALBANY The State Thruway Authority passed a toll hike on Monday that will increase rates by 5% for most drivers on the Thruway system beginning next year. By a unanimous vote, the authoritys board of directors passed the 5% hike beginning on Jan. 1, 2024, for E-ZPass holders, a rate hike everywhere in the system except for Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge. Another 5% increase will then occur on Jan. 1, 2027, under the plan passed Monday. Bigger WNY rest stop earns rave reviews compared to other new Thruway service areas The Pembroke service area is the 10th new service area to open to Thruway customers, as part of a $450 million initiative to modernize all 27 Thruway service areas. In addition, the Thruway board voted to increase the rate on drivers that do not pay by E-ZPass and instead pay tolls by mail. That rate will increase from 30% above the E-ZPass rate to 70% above. The Thruway Authority is stressing that this is the first such rate hike in 14 years and is necessary to maintain the systems safety. Also on Monday, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that she was recommending the interim executive director of the authority, Frank Hoare, to fill the position on a non-interim basis. That recommendation will require a confirmation vote by the State Senate when it returns in 2024. Todays vote by the Board of Directors maintains some of the lowest toll rates in the country and fulfills the system-wide operating, debt service, and capital needs for our financial plan, Hoare said in a statement Monday. Wed like to thank individuals and industry representatives who attended the public hearings, those who contacted us expressing their opinion on the proposal, and elected officials for their feedback. This proposal was developed to ensure the safety and reliability of the Thruway by providing the Authority with additional revenue to meet our infrastructure and operational needs. A trip from Buffalo to Albany currently costs an E-ZPass user $12.18. In 2024, that will increase to $12.78, and in 2027, to $13.41. Over the next four years, the increase is forecasted to generate an additional $826 million of toll revenue. The rate hike followed a 10-month public process that included five public hearings and 210 public comments. Audit finds Thruway Authority struggling to collect hundreds of millions of dollars in tolls The New York State Thruway Authority has had trouble collecting hundreds of millions of dollars in tolls and related fees since it went to a cashless tolling system. It wants to raise tolls in 2024. The Thruway Authority cites an analysis from a traffic engineering consulting firm, which determined additional revenues were required for the authority to fulfill its system-wide operating, debt service and capital needs. According to the authority, there are $470 million in capital project needs that are currently not supported by the resources available for its existing budget. The Authority also cites the looming need to replace hundreds of aging bridges, which will cost hundreds-of-billions of dollars. On Jan. 1, 2024, the rate at the Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge for NY E-ZPass customers will increase by 50 cents each year through 2027. The bridge connects Westchester and Rockland counties. The rate increase comes even as in May State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli released an audit finding the authority has struggled to collect hundreds of millions of dollars in unpaid fees, many from out-of-state drivers. In 2022, motorists took more than 376 million trips and drove 7.7 billion miles on the Thruway system, according to the Thruway Authority, which notes that its roadways are supported by user fees and receive no dedicated federal, state or local tax dollars. On a cold winter morning in late 2020, Patrick Kielty sat into a taxi and accelerated towards the unknown. Amid the latest Covid lockdown, the Northern Ireland stand-up was making his acting debut in independent film Ballywalter. Three years later, the charming drama arrives on the screen the very month Kielty is about to embark on another big adventure as new host of The Late Late Show. The comedian shrugs: its funny how life works out sometimes. When we made this movie, we were hoping that we would able to call someone and would be on the Late Late Show as guests. You call the publicist: Is there a chance I go on the Late Late? says Kielty. The idea of sitting in the hosts seat rather than the interview seat with this out is very odd. Apparently, theres a thing where youre not allowed to interview yourself or talk about your own thing when youre hosting [the Late Late]. Thats all interesting. But having them coming out, first the show and then this, its great. Ballywalter is a searingly humane portrait of friendship between two lost souls. Kielty plays Shane, a separated husband and father who lives in the seaside village of Ballywalter on the Ards Peninsula. Each morning, he commutes by taxi to Belfast for a beginners course in comedy. Seana Kerslakes Eileen is a college drop-out negotiating grief and the sense, in her late 20s, that life has given up on her. Her part-time gig driving a cab introduces her to Shane. Despite initially having little in common, friendship flourishes between these two strangers. Its an excellent showcase for both Kielty and Kerslake. Each delivers a masterclass in vulnerability. But their characters are also flawed human beings. The power in Stacey Greggs script flows from the movies determination to depict the protagonists in as frank a light as possible. Its their imperfections that make them believable. Kielty plays Shane, a separated husband and father who lives in the seaside village of Ballywalter on the Ards Peninsula. I love that about acting. You get to play sides of humans that arent always likeable, says Kerslake, seated beside Kielty in a hotel in central Dublin. And you can be very unapologetic about it. Youre somebody else. "Thats one of the lovely parts of playing a character like Eileen. She shoots from the hip, even if its a defence mechanism. Theyre not perfect characters. "Thats the human thing. They meet at a certain point in their journey, where they realise, Oh, youre sad too. Kerslake is one of the best Irish actors of her generation, and it is no surprise that she is as convincing as Eileen. But the true revelation is Kielty as Shane. He is devastating as a middle-aged man whose world has unravelled largely due to mistakes he has made, which are gradually revealed over the course of the film. Kielty sees acting as broadly similar to hosting a chat show such as the Late Late. Both are collaborative projects. For someone with a background in stand-up, its a radically new way of working. They are two different things but weirdly similar. Whenever you do stand-up youre up there on your own. Its a solo pursuit. Walking on to that set was probably the most nervous Ive been in my life. "There are all these many amazing people. And then you realise those people arent there to judge you. Theyre on your team. Theyre there to help you along. Its the same [with broadcasting] as a kid growing up watching the Late Late "And now hosting it: being out the back and that music [the Late Late theme] going. Your name being called. The butterflies. To realise theres a load of people making that show brilliant crews. And everyone is there to help. Patrick Kielty, Seana Kerslake and Prasanna Puwanarajah at a screening of Ballywalter at the Light House Cinema, Dublin. Picture: Brian McEvoy There is a long tradition of comedians pivoting to drama. No actor has ever been darker than Robin Williams playing it straight. Before Breaking Bad, Bryan Cranston was best known for his screwball comedy. As was Better Call Sauls Bob Odenkirk. Still, many comedians push back against the idea that, under the giggles, they are carrying baggage. It is called the tears of a clown theory and comics will often dismiss it as a cliche. However, Kielty, whose father was shot dead by loyalist terrorists when the broadcaster was 16, thinks the stereotype is not without merit. A lot of comedians kick back on that one. Simply because theyve heard it a lot. I would say most comedians are idealistic cynics. So weirdly, theres always going to be some sort of disappointment built in there. I think theres more truth in that than you think. "Also, the best comedy has a truth at the heart of it. When youre working alongside someone as amazing as Seana, you realise that at its best with acting, theres a truth there. That really helped me to tune in. He continues that the darkest scenes are often the simplest to negotiate. Sometimes it came easier than you thought. There were days you knew you had to go in and do that scene at a certain time. I was carrying a lot of emotion with me - youre not seeing your family [because Ballywalter was shot during lockdown, Kielty was on living on his own]. Weirdly you didnt have to scratch that surface too hard for proper emotion to be in there. Ballywalter is ultimately a film about human connection and the importance of sharing your feelings. That message chimed with Kielty, who in 2018 made the highly personal film My Dad, The Peace Deal and Me, about his experiences of the troubles. When I started doing documentaries and I was going around places up north and you thought you were going to be talking about someone else about what they were going through. And then you realise, Oh thats brought me back to a certain place. Everybody, every day is carrying something he says. Ballywalter is ultimately a film about human connection and the importance of sharing your feelings. We do not know what they are carrying. Its in them. So the idea of these two people revealing their most harrowing traumas in their life to each other that rarely happens in life. Most people carry it and front it out. "By sharing it, Ive been very pleasantly surprised when I look at my family history and what my family has been through - the minute you start to talk about that I didnt talk about it for a really long time. I didnt want anyone to think, Oh heres your man talking about it again. "But the second you do, youre amazed by someone going, You know what actuallythat reminds me of this. And they tell a story. Thats when life intersects and real moments of connection happen. It helps you through. Kerslake matches Kielty all the way in Ballywalter. She feels her character is typical of many of her generation in that life hasnt worked out. Eileen doesnt know how to process that disappointment. Ive had the privilege in my work to play characters in their 20s who are trying to find their way. When you were 18, you think youll have it all together: youd have a house, youd be on top of your career. "That isnt the way life is. That doesnt mean you have failed. Or that the road ends here. Maybe this was the path you were meant to go down. "I know it sounds hopelessly optimistic. You are where you are meant to be. Maybe the road youre down will make you better at what you are meant to be doing. Kielty had never considered acting until Ballywalters producers approached him. The idea of casting him had originated with director Prasanna Puwanarajah (also an actor), who saw My Dad, The Peace Deal and Me. Kieltys sincerity and intensity registered with Puwanarajah. Thats what Prasanna said. They had seen something in the documentary where they felt [Kielty] could identify with that guy. To be offered a lead role in a moviealongside someone as good as Seana. The idea of that never occurred to me. "To the point where, when we had the meeting in London, youre kind of waiting for Ant and Dec to jump out of the corner. For them to take a chance on me, just by seeing that. So many people took a chance. I cant thank them enough. The 19th edition of Clonakilty International Guitar Festival got under way over the weekend, with events continuing until Sunday, September 24. Belfasts Junk Drawer kicked things off on Friday night having made the six-and-a-half-hour trip to West Cork. The journey was worth it, they tell the buoyant crowd at De Barras, because theyre heard from more than a couple of people that Clonakilty has one of the best supermarkets in the country. Theirs is a Weezer-inspired sound, frontman Stevie Lennox plucking guitar lines, like that of 'Year of the Sofa', that Rivers Cuomo would be proud of. The four-piece draw mostly from their 2020 album Ready for the House), closing with the rollicking 'What Ive Learned/What Im Learning'. Along the way they swap instruments, cajole the crowd with their lovely Northern accents, and showcase some newer, twin-guitar songs. Belfast band Junk Drawer at De Barra's. Picture: Brid O'Donovan The following night, Cork-based five-piece the Altered Hours are playing their first show in over a year - it doesnt show. They havent been idle in any way over the past 12 months: Guitarist Cathal Mac Gabhann stood in for Carlos OConnell on Fontaines DCs tour of Australia and Japan in early 2023, while frontperson Elaine Howley has garnered acclaim from all corners of the music world since releasing her debut solo album The Distance Between Heart and Mouth last summer. Indeed, shes returning to Clonakilty next Sunday at 2pm for a (free) solo show at De Barras. So its no surprise that the Altered Hours have a swagger about them as they dust off the cobwebs on Saturday. Mac Gabhann throws out guitar licks like hes reeling off the alphabet; Howley looks like she owns the stage - it just comes easy for them. Theres a couple of new songs, some with Oasis-like tendencies, dare we say, but its the older material that still packs the heaviest punch. Opening tunes 'Smoke Your Eyes' descends into a cacophony of noise, while 'Hey No Way' is dripping in Velvet Underground cool. The Altered Hours have been going for over a decade but theyre only getting better. Maija Sofia, based in West Cork, is on support duty, having released her second album True Love at the start of September. She switches between guitar and keyboard, though its her lyrics that linger, whether about saints, the inventor of the theremin, or Chaucer (OK I get it, you went to school). So a great way to kickstart Clonakilty International Guitar Festival. You can check out the full timetable for the week ahead here - https://clonguitarfest.com/timetable/ - with events taking place across the town over the next few days, from the smallest bars to the health shop to the biodiversity park. Upcoming highlights of Clonakilty Guitar Festival Gemma Hayes, De Barras, 9pm, Thursday, September 21. 20: The Tipperary singer-songwriter released her first single in nine years earlier this summer, High & Low, and make what is sure to be a memorable return to De Barras. Crying Loser, De Barras, 11pm, Friday, September 22. Free: Frenetic Cork-based foursome released their debut EP Oaf Milk last month and are quickly earning a reputation as a band you dont want to miss live. Ray Blackwell of De Barras. Picture: Brid O'Donovan I Dreamed I Dream, Caseys, 6pm, Saturday, September 23. Free: Another four-piece from Cork, theyre named after a Sonic Youth song, but are influenced by everything ranging from shoegaze and dreampop to classic girl groups. Jon Gomm, De Barras, 4.30pm, Sunday, September 24. 20: A deeply emotive singer-songwriter based in Yorkshire, his virtuoso guitar style involves slapping, tapping and retuning as he plays, producing a huge, multi-layered sound filled with bass, drums and near-orchestral depth and complexity, all from a single guitar. John Spillane & the Band of Wrens, Fahys, 6.30pm, Sunday, September 24. Free: Youll want to get a seat very early if you want to catch the enigmatic John Spillane. His monthly residency at De Barras is legendary. Whatever he has planned her, you wont be able to resist his charm - or his tunes. Right now there is huge amounts of money to be made in housing asylum seekers and refugees. A spike in those seeking international protection, the fall-out from the war in Ukraine, and a prevailing housing crisis mean that accommodation is at a premium. One of the biggest earners in this respect is the Tifco Hotel Group, an off-shore company owned by a hedge fund, Apollo. In 2022, the group received just over 80m in state funds to provide accommodation for those arriving on these shores. Among the Tifco properties contracted out to the government for this purpose are a number of Travel Lodge hotels and the Crowne Plaza in Dublins Blanchardstown. Until last year the groups Crowne Plaza in Santry near Dublin Airport was similarly contracted. In December 2021, the Santry property was contracted out so that all of its 209 rooms went to the States International Protections Support Services (IPSS) agency, which organises accommodation for asylum seekers. Rooms exclusively for use of IPSS In this arrangement, the rooms were to be exclusively for the use of IPSS, even when some were occasionally unused. This makes perfect sense as requirements for accommodation can fluctuate on a daily basis. Unbeknownst to IPSS, some of the rooms in Crowne Plaza were not being made available: Up to seven rooms were being used by the hotel to provide accommodation for its own staff. These staff members had been recruited in Croatia and were told that they would be provided with accommodation. The rooms in question were being paid for by the IPSS to house asylum seekers while the employees were staying there. In April 2022, one of the hotel employees was in the staff canteen early in the morning when she encountered a few of the Croatians. She was surprised that they were up early. Neither were they togged out in their uniforms as would be the case if they were on duty. One of them told her that they had been told to gather up their luggage and vacate their bedrooms as IPPS was conducting an inspection. The employee found this strange and investigated further. Later in the day, she encountered one of the Croatians who told her that another manager had said: From now on lads, youre doubling up. This inferred that fewer bedrooms would now be used for the staff and they would have to make do. The employee reported the matter to the groups management in the form of a protected disclosure. The matter was investigated under the companys whistleblowing policy by a senior member of the groups management. She prepared a report that, for the greater part, upheld the complaint in the protected disclosure. The internal investigation found that the staff had been staying in the rooms prior to the signing of the IPSS contract in early December 2021. They continued to live there after that. Hotel obliged to inform IPSS of occupancy Each day, the hotel was obliged to inform the IPSS about its occupancy level so the IPSS could organise whether or not to send more asylum seekers. According to the investigation, there were 48 days in the first half of 2022 in which the hotel told the IPSS that it had full occupancy. This obviously did not take account of the rooms being occupied by staff. However, the investigation found that there were reasons why the staff were being housed in these rooms. The staff were only ever accommodated in rooms that were out of order, these rooms were out of order and could not be used to accommodate IPSS guests, the report stated. There were a number of reasons why these rooms were out of order for guests, mainly for maintenance issues such as issues with door locks, window, air conditioning issues, etc. So the rooms were deemed unfit for asylum seekers, but acceptable for the long-term accommodation of staff. The investigation also found that: IPSS were not informed that staff were staying in rooms on the day of the inspection; IPSS were not informed that there were rooms that were out of order to guests; These rooms were included in the count as occupied rooms on the room status report that was sent to the IPSS daily; IPSS trusted the hotel to manage the facility with the ultimate goal of giving them the maximum number of rooms. The employees were accommodated in out-of-order rooms that couldnt be used regardless. The report recommended that IPSS be refunded the value of the number of rooms retained to house staff but only for the 48 days on which the hotel reported no occupancy. It also recommended that a disciplinary investigation be carried out into the matter. Last year an Oireachtas committee was told that it cost around 70 a night to house asylum seekers. By those figures, the amount refunded was well into the tens of thousands. If the IPSS demanded a refund for the use of the rooms that it had contracted for but were occupied by hotel staff over the full period, the value would run into six figures. The staff continued to be housed in the contracted room right up until the completion of the investigation report in July 2022. The Irish Examiner submitted a number of questions to Tifco, none of which were addressed. Instead, the company issued a statement. In response to your query, a matter was brought to our attention by a staff member in the summer of 2022. The matter was immediately investigated, and resolved to the clients satisfaction, the statement read. Matter brought to attention of An Garda Siochana Earlier this year, the matter was brought to the attention of An Garda Siochana. By that time, the Tifco employee who had made the protected disclosure had left her employment. She explained to an officer from the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB) the details of her allegation. The garda then pointed out to her that she was a witness, not a complainant, and investigating the matter on that basis might be an issue. He told her an anecdote about a person who saw a thief rob another persons wallet. The witness cant make the complaint. It must be the victim of the crime. The garda said the best course of action would be for him to contact the government department responsible for the funds. The Irish Examiner understands this was done. Later, the former Tifco employee sent the garda an email saying that she simply didnt understand why her complaint couldnt be acted on. In his response, the garda referred to the anecdote he had told her. I acknowledge that we have a different interpretation of what was said, the garda wrote. You brought to the attention to this bureau an allegation of misappropriation of government funds. I really appreciate that you brought this matter to the attention of the bureau. I acknowledge how difficult it has been for you. I have been in communication with representatives of the government regarding said allegation. I made reference to the wallet story as a simple example, to explain the concept of owner, and the roles of complainant, witness, and suspect within our accusatorial court system. You did not identify to me anything that was stolen from you. You cannot make a complaint in this instance. I outlined to you that your role may be as a witness. I remain in communication with representatives of government. A spokesperson for An Garda Siochana said the National Economic Crime Bureau is currently assessing the matter referenced in your query. A criminal investigation has not been undertaken at this time. A spokesperson for the Department of Equality said it is cooperating with An Garda Siochana in relation to an allegation that is being investigated. The Department cannot comment further on an ongoing investigation. The European Environment Commissioner is to visit Ireland in the coming weeks, it has been confirmed, just days after Taoiseach Leo Varadkar intervened in the dispute over the nitrates derogation. Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue met the commissioner, Virginijus Sinkevicius, in Brussels on Monday at a gathering of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council. A spokesperson for the minister confirmed that Mr Sinkevicius will visit Ireland shortly, adding that the two had a positive discussion at their meeting. The spokesperson said the commissioner will await an invitation letter from the Taoiseach before officially announcing his visit. However, it is unlikely the visit will lead to a change in Irelands nitrates derogation, which will be reduced from 250kg/ha to 220kg/ha from January 1, 2024. Commission spokesman Adalbert Jahnz said any discussion on amending the derogation would be premature as Irelands water quality had yet to improve. SUSTAINABILITY & CLIMATE Check out our Sustainability and Climate Change Hub where you will find the latest news, features, opinions and analysis on this topic from across the various Irish Examiner topic desks and their team of specialist writers and columnists. Given that the current derogation was adopted in 2022 and applies until the end of 2025, a discussion on amending the derogation would be premature, Mr Jahnz said. Also, since there is no major improvement in water quality in Ireland or any other relevant development or new information which could justify an amendment, this discussion would be premature. On Friday, Mr Varadkar confirmed to the Irish Farmers Association (IFA) that he would invite Mr Sinkevicius to meet with himself, Mr McConalogue, and a delegation from the farming sector. This followed a meeting between an IFA delegation, Mr Varadkar, Trade Minister Simon Coveney, and junior agriculture minister Martin Heydon at the Fine Gael think-in in Co Limerick. This was despite Mr McConalogue confirming just hours beforehand that the European Commission is clear there is no possibility of reopening and renegotiating the nitrates derogation and that Ireland must work within the existing terms. However, the ministers spokesperson added that Mr McConalogues priority is to ensure that Ireland retains the current derogation beyond 2026. Changes to the derogation mean that thousands of dairy farmers must reduce the size of their herds in the coming four months. Alternatively, they need to spend hundreds of thousands of euro on more land to comply with the derogation. There were 500 patients stuck in hospital at the start of this month waiting to go home after their treatment had finished, new HSE data shared at the Emergency Department Taskforce shows. The taskforce which includes health unions, the Department of Health, and patient advocates, met today to discuss the growing crisis in hospitals. While the number of patients experiencing delayed discharge is significantly lower than what was seen this time last year at just over 600 and this time in 2019 when it reached almost 800, it remains a crucial issue for the HSE. This number can include patients waiting for homecare or supports to enable them to return home after a serious operation. The impact of bed shortages can be seen in data showing only 31.7% of patients were admitted or discharged within six hours of arriving at a hospital ED. The taskforce also heard emergency departments had seen 207,268 children aged under 15 by September 3 which is 3,695 less than were seen by this time last year. The data shared by the HSE shows this is also similar to the numbers seen in 2019, the last full year before the pandemic. The Irish Patient Associations Stephen McMahon attended the meeting and said the overall figures are concerning for patients of all ages. He raised questions around a HSE target to have no patient aged over 75 spend longer than 24 hours on a trolley this winter. We know that in other countries patients waiting over four hours is considered a major problem, he said, adding that even one patient spending 24 hours on a trolley is unacceptable. We know from research that the longer you wait and spend waiting for admission to the wards, the more exposed you are to harm and poorer outcomes, and indeed death. During the meeting, he called for more research into the impact of delays on Irish patients. We were also looking for research to be conducted on patients coming to the emergency departments who are on waiting lists, he said. This comes as new figures from the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) show over 5,210 patients, including 100 children, have been without a bed in Irish hospitals since the beginning of September. Its figures also show there were 385 people on trolleys waiting for a bed around the country today even though it is only mid-September. Those included 87 at University Hospital Limerick (UHL), the worst-affected nationally. UHL, like many other hospitals, puts a small number of trolleys on wards around the hospital as part of its escalation plan to decongest the ED at busy times. At Cork University Hospital some 17 patients waited for a bed, 21 at University Hospital Kerry while there were none again at University Hospital Waterford. INMO General secretary Phil Ni Sheaghdha warned: Nurses and midwives are facing into yet another winter where they are left in impossible and often dangerous care environments. We know that overcrowding of this nature has significant impacts on the long-term health outcomes of any patient that spends more than six hours on a trolley. Ms Ni Sheaghdha singled out Waterford during an interview with RTE, praising their approach in ensuring people do not have to wait. Three men who appeared in court on Monday by video link from prison following last months seizure of more than 4 million worth of cocaine in Dunkettle were remanded in custody until October 2. Sergeant Pat Lyons said directions were awaited from the Director of Public Prosecutions. Judge Olann Kelleher remanded all three accused in custody for a fortnight at Cork District Court. A grieving husband whose terminally-ill wife travelled to Belgium to avail of assisted dying just five months ago says he will do whatever it takes to ensure the right-to-die choice is made available here in Ireland. Garret Ahern spoke to the Irish Examiner about the death of his wife Vicky Janssens last April ahead of the resumption next week of Oireachtas committee hearings on the issue. He hopes to tell his story to the committee within a few weeks. Our story is tragic. It's heartbreaking, Mr Ahern said. And the stress and the trauma that you have to endure traveling to Belgium, having the procedure carried out in Belgium and having to stay in Belgium for the funeral afterwards is not something that I would wish anyone to have to go through. Im not doing this to seek publicity or the limelight. But if the legislation in this country can be changed to facilitate, under very strict conditions, the dignified ending of a persons life, and the ending of their pain and suffering, I think it will have been worth it. Belgian-born, Cork-based UCC lecturer Vicky Janssens was a double mastectomy cancer survivor and five years cancer-free when she met Limerick man Garret Ahern online in 2018. The couple hit it off immediately but within a month, Vicky was told her cancer had returned. Despite treatment, the cancer spread. Vicky Janssens and Garret Ahern. The couple married in 2021 and tried to live life to the full but as the cancer progressed to her lungs, liver and stomach, she ultimately got a terminal diagnosis. Her pain increased and her quality of life deteriorated, Mr Ahern said. She survived an overdose of pain medication at home in February 2023 but days later, she told Garret that she had made all the relevant medical and travel arrangements to avail of assisted dying in her native Belgium, where the right-to-die law was adopted in May 2002, and that it was going to happen with or without him. Read More Elaine Loughlin: Politicians will have to face the issue of assisted dying How could I here, at the final furlong, how can I abandon her now? How can I let her die without me being there to hold her hand. So of course I agreed to go, he said. He said he is aware that some people may view the introduction of assisted dying in certain conditions as a slippery slope that risks opening the door to a liberal form of euthanasia. But he insists the right legal, medical and ethical safeguards could be put in place to protect against an abuse of the system. We take death and we put it in a corner, and we ignore it, he said. But it should be as important a decision in our life as deciding whether or not to breathe air or whether or not to get married. We may not necessarily get married or have successful careers or be rich and famous. But we all will die. We should take ownership of death and give it the same dignity, gravitas and respect as any other important decision that we make. I am not in any way advocating that the elderly, people with disabilities, or people who do not wish to die in this manner, that they should be in any way coerced into this. I dont want the limelight. I would give anything to have this burden lifted from me. But its mine to carry. I can go to my deathbed, whenever that may be and in whatever manner that might be knowing that I've done my best for a cause that I believe in. Suicide was decriminalised in Ireland in 1993 but the act of aiding, abetting, counselling or procuring the suicide of another person remains illegal and carries a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison. The Joint Committee on Assisted Dying was established last January to consider and make recommendations for legislative and policy change related to a statutory right to assist a person to end his, her or their life and a statutory right to receive such assistance. It is exploring how the provision for assisted dying might operate here, looking at safeguards relating to the provision for assisted dying, analysing the constitutional, legal and ethical issues relating to such a provision, and it also hopes to identify the possible unintended consequences of such a move. It is open to the committee to recommend no change. The 14-member committee held its first private meeting in April 2023, two sessions in June and a final meeting in July before the summer break. It has heard from several academics who are experts in medical ethics and the law, including consent, capacity, and end-of-life care, and the Constitution, where Articles 40.3.1 and 40.3.2 place an express and solemn duty on the State and its organs legislative, executive, judicial to protect the sanctity of all human life. Its meetings are due to resume on September 26 with input from a range of experts from European jurisdictions where there is assisted dying, with the next set of modules focusing on the international experience of assisted dying, as well as on professional and ethical issues. The committee is on track to report to both houses of the Oireachtas within nine months of its first public meeting. Cork City will be going car free on Saturday as members of the public are being encouraged to travel into the city either on foot, bicycle or use public transport. The city's first "Car Free Day" will see the closure of Patrick Street, North Main Street, Cornmarket Street, Castle Street, and Adelaide Street this Saturday from noon until 6.30pm. It is a once-off event. However, the quays will remain open to traffic as normal and buses and taxis will still be able to access the closed streets as normal. It follows research from Cork City Council's Climate Action Unit which showed that 29% of greenhouse gas emissions in Cork City are created by road transport. Cork city car-free map Picture: Cork City Council A further study published this week, showed that 64% of people in Cork strongly agree that Cork must transform into a more sustainable place to live and work that is climate-neutral and resilient. Some 86% of Cork people want more pedestrianized streets. Members of the public are being encouraged to come to town on Saturday without their cars, either on foot, by bicycle, or on public transport to "enjoy the city's streets without traffic and soak up the atmosphere". Public information stands on cycling and sustainable transport will be made available. 'Fish for Dreams' There will also be an interactive performance devised by performer and architect Carolina Erika Santos and facilitated by artist Claudia Renzi, where the people of Cork will be invited to pin their dreams of a city full of nature rather than traffic to a line between the two rivers to Fish for Dreams. Lord Mayor Cllr Kieran McCarthy said he is "delighted" the event is taking place as part of European SDG (Sustainable Development Goals) week. "We have seen from our recently published climate report that 29% of the emissions in Cork City are from cars. This is a small step in encouraging people to get out of the car and try a cleaner mode of transport." Cork Chamber CEO Conor Healy said this event will help "reduce our emissions and to help reach our 2030 climate targets". "Car Free Day is a great incentive to trial switching transport modes, whether its public transport, the ParknRide, TFI bikes or walking. Reductions in traffic also create a more pleasant street atmosphere for those visiting, shopping and enjoying the cultural offering of our wonderful city," Mr Healy said. Plans for the first phase of a 10km greenway in Cork have been scrapped just days after a major survey showed most citizens want more sustainable transport options. The city council has confirmed that the proposed 1.4km Maglin greenway in Ballincollig will not proceed as planned, with potential amendments including an alternative route now up for discussion over the coming months. Green Party councillor Colette Finn said she was very disappointed that a compromise could not be found to keep the scheme on track. The rerouting option was a non-starter and the councillors that encouraged people to believe that this was a viable solution can answer for themselves, she said. I consider it a huge loss to the area. I hope that people will come to understand that designing a town that encourages people to make every journey by car is a road to nowhere. 'It will go ahead' Fianna Fail councillor Colm Kelleher, who wants an alternative route considered, insisted that the project has not been scrapped but is being reassessed to take account of public feedback. It will go ahead. I am all in favour of it but it has to be done in a fair and balanced manner to accommodate residents, landowners, all citizens not just cyclists, he said. If it can rerouted through nearby fields and that only upsets a few cows, rather than residents, then we have to look at that. We need more cycle lanes but it has to be done in a fair and balanced way. Plans for the greenway, along the route of the former Cork to Macroom rail line, were unveiled earlier this year and included the creation of quietways along roads in the Carriginarra housing estate and access points to two other housing estates. It was the first phase of the almost 10km proposed greenway route outlined in the Cork Cycle Network Plan (2017) to link Kilumney to the proposed Curraheen science park. But some residents living along the route objected, raising concerns about the loss of some green areas and increased footfall in what have been quiet housing estates, prompting a reassessment of the plan. It is the third time in recent months that plans for bike-related infrastructure in Ballincollig have been delayed or watered-down. Ms Finn said: Of course, people have concerns when something new is proposed. Unfortunately, the do-nothing advocates have managed to delay the scheme. The population of Ballincollig is set to grow, with large land banks identified for housing and apartments. Unless we develop a multi-modal transport system, the town will become gridlocked. Meanwhile, the city will host its first official car-free day this Saturday, with people invited to visit the city centre using sustainable transport options. Streets including St Patricks Street, North Main Street, Cornmarket Street, Castle Street and Adelaide Street will be closed to general traffic from 12 noon to 6.30pm. Higher Education Minister Simon Harris says that RTE made the right decision to suspend plans to hire a photographer for Fair City. The Irish Examiner first revealed that the public broadcaster was to spend 240,000 retaining a professional photographer to capture still images of the soap while in production. The tender required a 20-hour week for the successful applicant over three days, for 50 weeks each year, to produce a minimum of 16 still images for the programme. However, on Sunday, RTE said that it has decided to suspend the current public tender process for Fair City photography. Reacting to the announcement, Mr Harris said that he agrees with the decision to suspend the tender and that RTE needed to stop being talked about as a soap opera. What it looks to me like [is] we have a Director General who is doing his job and trying to run an organisation, Mr Harris said. Its not for Government ministers to start deciding who takes photographs on what sets of what soap operas. I just hope we actually stop talking about RTE as a soap opera soon, because when I entered politics, I never thought Id be asked about photographs on the set of Fair City. The decision to scrap the tender comes after RTE Director General Kevin Bakhurst announced an immediate hiring freeze as well as plans to stop all discretionary spending. RTE will pause the tender process and take time to review the volume of photography required and length of the contract, among other considerations. A revised tender document will issue once these decisions have been made, a statement read. While quality professional photography is essential to enable us to promote our programmes and engage audiences, it is not possible for RTE to commit to a four-year contract or to this level of spend given the challenges we now face, Mr Bakhurst said. So, we have decided to take time to consider the best way to balance the needs of the series with the need to reduce costs where we can. We will continue to explore how we can cut costs and maximise funding of our public services through commercial revenue, while also working hard to restore trust in RTE. MONT BELVIEU, Texas A Black high school student in Texas who served an in-school suspension over his hairstyle received the same punishment again when he arrived Monday wearing his hair in twisted dreadlocks tied on top of his head, his mother said. Darryl George, a junior at Barbers Hill High School in Mont Belvieu, was initially suspended the same week his state outlawed racial discrimination based on hairstyles. School officials said his dreadlocks fell below his eyebrows and ear lobes and violated the districts dress code. George, 17, served the first suspension last week at the Houston-area school. He was in tears when he was sent back to in-school suspension Monday, his mother Darresha George said. He has to sit on a stool for eight hours in a cubicle, she said. Thats very uncomfortable. Every day hed come home, hed say his back hurts because he has to sit on a stool. The incident recalls debates over hair discrimination in schools and the workplace and is already testing the state's newly enacted CROWN Act, which took effect Sept. 1. The law, an acronym for Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair, is intended to prohibit race-based hair discrimination and bars employers and schools from penalizing people because of hair texture or protective hairstyles including Afros, braids, dreadlocks, twists or Bantu knots. Texas is one of 24 states that have enacted a version of the CROWN Act. A federal version of the CROWN Act passed in the House of Representatives last year, but was not successful in the Senate. For Black people, hairstyles are more than just a fashion statement. Hair has always played an important role across the Black diaspora, said Candice Matthews, national minister of politics for the New Black Panther Nation. Dreadlocks are perceived as a connection to wisdom, Matthews said. This is not a fad, and this is not about getting attention. Hair is our connection to our soul, our heritage and our connection to God. In George's family, all the men have dreadlocks, going back generations. To them, the hairstyle has cultural and religious importance, his mother said. Our hair is where our strength is, thats our roots, Darresha George said. He has his ancestors locked into his hair, and he knows that. Historians say braids and other hairstyles served as methods of communication across African societies, including to identify tribal affiliation or marriage status, and as clues to safety and freedom for those who were captured and enslaved. After slavery was abolished, Black American hair became political. Although the Civil Rights Act of 1964 banned discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex and national origin, Black people continued to face professional and social stigma for not adopting grooming habits that fit white, European beauty standards and norms. The issue of race-based hair discrimination in the workplace has long existed alongside concerns in public and private schools. In 2018, a white referee in New Jersey told a Black high school wrestler to cut his dreadlocks or forfeit a match. Viral video of the wrestler having his hair cut with scissors as the crowd watched prompted the referee's suspension and spurred passage of the state's CROWN Act. Darresha George said her son has been growing his dreadlocks for nearly 10 years and the family never received pushback or complaints until now. When let down, his dreadlocks hang above his shoulders. She said she couldn't understand how he violated the dress code when his hair was pinned up. The school previously clashed with another Black male student over the dress code. Barbers Hill officials told a student he had to cut his dreadlocks to return to school or participate in graduation in 2020, which garnered national attention. Greg Poole, who has been district superintendent since 2006, said the policy is legal and teaches students to conform as a sacrifice benefitting everyone. When you are asked to conform and give up something for the betterment of the whole, there is a psychological benefit," Poole said. "We need more teaching (of) sacrifice. George's situation has drawn solidarity from young Black people around the nation, who say they have long dealt with discriminatory dress codes and comments from adults about their hair. When I was in fifth grade, I had a teacher tell me that my blue hair, my pink hair, was unnatural and too distracting for the other students in the class, said Victoria Bradley, 19, who lives in Detroit. Michigan passed the CROWN Act into law this year. Bradley, whose hair is braided and currently dyed multiple colors, said she attributes a lot of her hair confidence to her mother, Bernita Bradley, a longtime hair stylist and director of parent voice for the National Parents Union. Bernita Bradley said her first introduction to the CROWN Act was in 2021, when a biracial, 7-year-old girl in Michigan had her hair cut by a school worker without her parents permission. The girls father, Jimmy Hoffmeyer, filed a $1 million lawsuit against the school district. The lawsuit was settled earlier this year. That was modern-day scalping of this Black child, Bradley said. Robberies happen in central Madrid, just as robberies happen in Dublins Talbot Street. One consequence they share is that reporters end up standing in front of a location, clutching a microphone and talking to a camera, or through a camera to the broadcaster anchoring the news bulletin. Not unexpected, then, to see a reporter in a clip from Spanish TV, outlining where and how a recent robbery happened. It was a little unexpected, on the other hand, to see a man coming up the street behind her, stepping into shot, saying something to her, and then patting her on the bottom. She tried to resume the report. The anchorman interrupted her to ask if hed just seen what he thought hed witnessed: a total stranger invading her professional activity and person. She confirmed it. The anchorman demanded the man who he describes as an idiot be brought back into shot. At that point, Isa Balado, the reporter, asked the intruder why he felt the need to touch her bottom. He denied it and then compounded the original offence and confirmed a pattern of behavior by doing a spider-caress of her hair before going on his merry way. According to later details given to Madrid police, his merry way included touching other women he encountered as he walked along. Equal opportunities offender, this guy. Doesnt confine his unsought attentions to the televisually famous. Police later confirmed that the bloke had been arrested and charged with assault on the reporter. The bloke is, of course, innocent until proven guilty. Now, anyone in any major city who has ever had to talk to a camera knows the likelihood of somebody giving them rabbits ears behind their head or stepping into and spoiling the shot to send love to their mother. Thats why the infamous sequence of Mike Murphy pretending to be a gormless tourist who constantly invades Gay Byrnes report to camera fooled the maestro for so long: he was used to that kind of thing happening. The same may be true of Isa Balado, whose attempt to keep going after the bloke abandoned the innocence invariably attributed to bystanders was brave and admirable. This one clip, however, all 57 seconds of it, is rich in detail, rich in recorded behaviours which may provide answers to the inevitable questions about how this kind of thing could continue to happen and in public, at that after MeToo and the quantum leap the world was assumed to have made in respecting the bodies of women. Leaving aside the not-so-innocent bystander for a moment, lets look at the woman at the centre of a triangular encounter between him, her, and the anchor back in the studio. Her first reaction is a marvellous mix of conciliation and professionalism. She favours him with a smile, gently tries to move him away, and concentrates fiercely on continuing her PTC (thats internal jargon for Piece to Camera.) This presents the two men involved with choices. The bystander could have walked away and quit bothering the reporter. As later footage showed, he stayed put, albeit just off camera, post bottom-pat. The anchor could have gone along with the reporters clear intent and concentrated on the original story. That would have been professional. It might also have been interpreted as collusion, indeed as acceptance of what had happened. That would seem to be behind the decision he made to disbelievingly seek confirmation of what he and the viewers had just seen. He saw a live story and went with it, instructing the reporter to bring the bystander back into shot, which, if you think about it, argues a certain insight on the presenters part into the mans behaviour: after seeing him for just a few seconds, he figured the guy would stay observing the consequences of his action, and thats precisely what the guy did. Still within one minute, the recording shows Balado obediently challenging the man on camera, her hand flattened against her upper chest in what may be self-abnegation or self-protection, or both. He denies it. That denial argues an amazing lack of connection with real life. He knows this is TV. He knows its LIVE TV. Ergo the camera has recorded the truth. Yet he says it didnt happen. And as if that wasnt odd enough, he then invades Balados space all over again by caressing her hair. He isnt violent in so doing. He doesnt need to be. He is bigger than she is, one of her hands is clutching a microphone and her attention is visibly split between him and the anchor. What he does to her hair is what people who believe they like children do to kids theyre bigger than, more powerful than. It has nothing to do with affection and everything to do with contempt. And yet. And yet. A shocking aspect of the entire event is that Ms Balado apologises to the studio for whats happened. No, you have nothing to feel sorry for, says the guy back at the main desk. It makes me so mad. The first statement is spot on. The second, not so much. He doesnt say it makes him mad that a colleague has been publicly mocked, self-evidently for being a woman. So shes apologising as women do every day for a situation she neither caused nor provoked, and hes mad for no specific reason. Meanwhile, the guy who created the situation has gone off to molest other women as he walks the city. Inevitably, the lawyers defending Bottom-Patting Bloke will point to the gentleness of the two physical contacts, suggesting that the feather-light caresses could not, by any stretch of the imagination, be interpreted as assault. Wasnt it obvious from Balados smile that she didnt mind it, possibly even liked it up to the point where the anchorman intervened? Her question to Bottom-Patting Bloke was just inquisitive she asked him why he felt the need to touch her rather than offended. He did not hurt or coerce or restrain her in any way. Older Irish female broadcasters will see as familiar this line of defence. Thats because, live on air, they would have been discommoded by a charming male colleague who entered their studio, smiled at them, and then very quietly removed his clothing below the waist. Once he had done this, he would sit down opposite the presenter for fifteen minutes, before dressing again and departing with a friendly wave. When some (and its worth stressing that it was never more than a minority of the women thus molested) of the female broadcasters complained to management about this, they were met with either astonishment tinged with disbelief, or a shrugging suggestion that it probably wouldnt happen again and was it really worth making a fuss about? He hadnt actually assaulted them or anything, had he? Many decades later, despite all the consciousness-raising in the interim, as shown live on Spanish TV, its still happening and still being defended. Russell Brand has spent the past decade telling the world not to trust the mainstream media industry. Now the comedian will find out whether the wider public has bought into this scorched-earth narrative or if they believe the claims of rape and sexual assault reported in the Sunday Times and on Channel 4 over the weekend. The allegations against Brand which he denies once again leave the British media industry reeling from claims that a prominent man was able to misuse his position for sexual pleasure. Whats different from previous cases is that the prominent man has already largely stopped working with the big media institutions. Instead, Brand largely exists in a parallel world where his income comes from podcasting, YouTube advertising revenue, and selling membership of his online community to become one of Russell Brands awakened wonders; fans gain access to interviews with the likes of the former Fox News host Tucker Carlson and anti-vaccine US Democratic presidential candidate Robert F Kennedy. As a result, although he has been dropped by his agents and could find it a challenge to attract mainstream advertisers, the damage to Brands current career may be limited by his decision to spend recent years building a fanbase based around rightwing talking points and Covid vaccine scepticism. Brands own denial suggested theres a serious and concerted agenda to control these kind of spaces and these kind of voices implying that he is being targeted for getting close to the truth. Elon Musk, the owner of Twitter, sent a supportive message to Brand suggesting journalists were writing the story because they dont like competition. Andrew Tate, the misogynistic influencer facing human trafficking charges, sent a message of solidarity. The Telegraph columnist Allison Pearson said her first thought on reading about such claims is to wonder why They are trying to silence the person. Yet there are still questions for mainstream British broadcasters to answer, even if Brand has not appeared on their programmes in recent years. The BBC and Channel 4, who employed Brand at the peak of his fame in the 2000s, have said they do not have records of complaints against Brand during that era or have failed to answer questions, citing privacy concerns. They also say they now have much improved processes for reporting sexual harassment in the workplace. At the same time, the Sunday Times reports that staff who worked with Brand in that period claimed that his sexual behaviour was well known less an open secret and more just open. Hypersexualisation and graphic descriptions of sexual desire were part of his public persona which is not illegal, but may have been considered red flags by those hiring him to present shows. One junior staff member on a programme claims they used to be asked to pick up audience members for Brand to sleep with, describing how they felt as if they were acting like pimps to Russell Brands needs. Television executives who worked on those shows are still active in the industry. The BBC who let Brand go in 2008 after he left sexual messages on the phone of the actor Andrew Sachs will be reviewing its notes relating to that scandal. That investigation was led by the current BBC director general, Tim Davie. Brand was clearly aware of the power he had in the media at the height of his fame. During Channel 4s Dispatches documentary, there is a clip of the comedian telling Lorraine Kelly: If youre in a position of some success, people will let you be a nutter as long as theyre making money out of it. The allegations also raise questions for the agents and advisers who worked with him during that era, such as John Noel Management. The well-established celebrity agency told the Sunday Times that for legal reasons they were not in a position to respond to questions. There is also the unnamed legal representative who, one of the alleged victims claims, wrote an aggressive letter on Brands behalf when she tried to raise the issue of her alleged sexual assault in 2020. Multiple newspapers and broadcasters had looked into various allegations against Brand in recent years, but several failed to get their stories to a position where they could be published. In the end, it took teams of journalists working for three separate outlets the Sunday Times, The Times, and Channel 4s Dispatches to combine their reporting to get the story to the public. According to the Sunday Times, their initial inquiries began almost five years ago, while some of the staff who worked on the Dispatches part of the investigation moved on to other careers because of the time it took to finish the show. The public appetite for the reporting is there: the Dispatches documentary was watched live by 1.8 million people on Saturday night, a large audience for Channel 4 in this era. After the #MeToo movement came to global prominence because of reporting about the film producer Harvey Weinstein, many high-profile men lost their careers when women came forward with allegations of sexual impropriety. In the intervening years, many have questioned the depth and scale of change in the industry. In 2019, one comedian declared themselves on board with this reckoning, calling #MeToo a really positive change and a sign of real awakening. That person was Russell Brand. The Guardian What is UNGA, and why is it important? The UN General Assembly (UNGA) is where almost every country in the world (193 in total) comes together once a year to debate and discuss issues that affect us all. Every member state from the largest to the smallest has a voice and a vote on issues around peace, stability and sustainability. It provides Irish politicians with a chance to get in the room with other foreign leaders and to press our own policies and agendas, with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Tanaiste Micheal Martin, Green Party leader Eamon Ryan and Health Minister Stephen Donnelly all over in New York this week. What is Irelands role at UNGA? Ireland will be engaging in key debates on climate, conflict, global health and many more global challenges. The Taoiseach will also give our national statement to the UN General Assembly on Friday. What will this year's summit focus on? With both US President Joe Biden and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in town, a large chunk of attention will be directed towards Ukraine. There will be a specially-convened meeting of the Security Council scheduled to discuss Russias unlawful invasion and crimes of aggression. As the world emerges from the shadow of covid-19, UNGA will see political leaders from around the world gather to discuss how to be better prepared for future pandemics. The worlds collective experience during covid-19 demonstrated why joint preparedness and joint response are so vital. This years UNGA is particularly important as it marks the half-way point of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In 2015, Ireland and Kenya were tasked by the UN secretary general to bring the world together to agree a plan to tackle global challenges by 2030. What are the Sustainable Development Goals, and why are they so important at UNGA? The SDGs are 17 goals with 169 targets that all 191 UN member states have agreed to strive to achieve by 2030. Among the goals are the elimination of poverty, ending hunger, securing gender equality, and ensuring education is available to all. The centre-piece of UNGA this year is the SDG Summit, which will review progress to date and agree a way forward for the second half of the project. Ireland, alongside Qatar, has been given the role of securing a political declaration to chart a path towards achieving the SDGs by 2030. With only seven years remaining, and with many of the goals off track, this coming together at UNGA is a vital moment for renewing political energy and commitment to the SDGs. Having co-chaired the commission for the creation of the SDGs in 2015 (with Kenya) Ireland has again been selected to co-chair (with Qatar) this major international SDG summit at UNGA. Speaking at the UN, Mr Martin said countries around the world now need to "re-energise" and "reboot" to achieve the SDGs. "In terms of the Sustainable Development Goals, we can't surrender to fatalism in respect of the achievement of those goals. If you keep delaying targets and setting them back, that in itself creates an atmosphere or an environment where you even get a slower implementation of those targets." While some TDs in Dail Eireann acknowledge the serious failures and lack of trust within An Garda Siochana one cannot get away from using a sporting analogy, that the team no longer has trust in the coach, apart from the usual suspects on the board, ie, the Taoiseach, the Minister for Justice, and most surprisingly Sinn Fein. Is this the same Sinn Fein who opposed or failed to support the need for the Special Criminal Court over many decades? The same Sinn Fein that annually attends commemorations for their terrorist martyrs? I digress. The substantive issue concerning the public and most, if not all gardai, is that the position of Garda Commissioner Drew Harris is no longer tenable. Rightly or wrongly, depending on your position, the vast majority of people and frontline gardai have lost faith and trust in him. The overwhelming vote of no confidence by GRA members in Garda Commissioner Drew Harris should be a shot across the bows of government that if they dont take matters in hand the possibility of industrial action or other action, like sickness or refusal to do overtime, etc, by frontline gardai, could escalate leaving our country and its citizens at the mercy of criminals and terrorists. The basic principles of policing; prevention and detention of crime, the preservation of life and property and respect for human rights for all, are the pillars or cornerstones of this organisation. For too long we have allowed the dictats of the few and malcontents to dictate the direction of the force. As a former member of a once proud force I have come to the conclusion that those at the top of the pyramid are tone deaf to the genuine concerns of those of us who have, both in the past and now in the present, put our bodies and reputations on the line, holding that thin line between anarchy and our hard fought for democracy. ChristLy Galligan Letterkenny Co Donegal Ireland must back Taiwan in their bid for seat in UN As Ireland celebrates the centenary of the recognition of its statehood by The League of Nations, one of the notable observations from the reports of the time is the confidence and joy this recognition brought to the people of Ireland. Of course, this is not surprising as membership affirmed international support for Irelands political independence and territorial integrity following centuries of repression by a very powerful neighbour. The modern day successor to the League of Nations, the United Nations, will hold its 78th General Assembly in New York this week under the theme of rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity. Areas of the world still exist where populations yearn for recognition of their statehood. This year, the democratic island nation of Taiwan will again bid for a seat at the United Nations table. In 1971, the UN passed resolution 2758 which recognised the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) as the only legitimate representatives of China to the United Nations and removed the representatives of Chiang Kai-shek (or the Republic of China) who had withdrawn to Taiwan following the civil war in 1949. This left Taiwans status undetermined. In a recent statement, Taiwans foreign minister Joseph Wu said, this resolution neither states that Taiwan is a part of the PRC nor gives the PRC the right to represent the people of Taiwan in the UN and its specialised agencies. While the PRC understood this back in 1971 they accepted that the resolution did not contain the Taiwan conclusions they might have wanted and did not reject it. However, in the intervening years they have ramped up their efforts to distort its meaning and conflate it with their so-called One China Principle. Taiwan has made many attempts to participate in UN agencies as an observer, but has been rejected. As China has gained more influence, it has used its position and power to isolate Taiwan and deny its 23m people a voice in this global forum. The aspirations expressed in WT Cosgraves League of Nations acceptance speech of September 1923 together with the aptly titled commemorative book and exhibition would suggest that few countries are better placed than Ireland to appreciate what it means to be granted a seat at the international table and be on an equal footing with all. As Ireland celebrates this important centenary, I sincerely hope our government representatives will hold true to those ideals and resolutely support Taiwans bid for a seat at the United Nations table. Neil OSullivan Listowel Co Kerry Constitution calls for a united Ireland I admire Taoiseach Leo Varadkar for his views on the future of Ireland, and the vacuum in Northern Ireland where the parties are failing to come together to give the people a government that will be responsible for implementing measures that would help and support people. The Taoiseach is quite entitled to express his own personal view on how he sees Ireland in his lifetime, and expressed the natural aspirations of the people living in the Republic of Ireland, that they would aspire to a united Ireland. The views of secretary of state for Northern Ireland Chris Heaton Harris, are difficult to comprehend. Does he realise and understand articles 2 and 3 of the Irish Constitution our wish to have a united Ireland? John OSulivan Innishannon Co Cork No consulting with hunting fraternity To say Im astounded by the new Open Seasons Order, published recently by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) would be an under statement. Four species of duck Pintail, Scaup, Pochard, and Goldeneye have been removed from the hunting list, with national numbers of each scientifically estimated to be as follows: Pintail, 1,017; Scaup, 167; Pochard, 4,729, and Goldeneye, 1,256. I dont believe for one second that any of the above numbers reflect even part of the actual wintering population present. In relation to the new Open Seasons Order I hear lovely flowery language such as, extensive public consultation, sustainability of hunting, stakeholder consultation, as if to say that all relevant parties involved had the same input and we, as one, came to this conclusion. Wrong. The hunting fraternity was overlooked by and large, and if the truth be known Id say any submissions that were put forward were given little if any recognition. Lets be honest public consultation, was merely formulated so as to be seen to be fair and non-biased. The results of their findings seem to be anything but. Rupert Butler Cashel Co Tipperary Lack of childrens disability services Well done Minister Rabbitte for taking the HSE to task for failing to provide services for children with disabilities. I believe that the HSE has, for some time, had funding allocated for five therapists in the Cork area but nobody has been appointed. These short term savings no doubt being used on something more urgent than life-enabling services for children with special needs. Perhaps car allowances or even flip-flops who knows. Joe Mason Montenotte Cork Monkeys roam the forests, historic monuments dot the landscape, crystal waters are teeming with marine life and bustling beach clubs line the golden sands. Having spent years exploring Balis rich landscapes themselves and partnering with hand-picked luxury resorts and hotels, the Travel Specialists at Oroko, Irelands leading luxury tailored travel business, are experts in creating memorable luxury holidays to Bali. As with any Oroko holiday, itineraries are always tailored to meet your needs, desires and personal preferences. With so much wonder to uncover, the team at Oroko have put together their guide to Bali. Forged from years of experience, rest assured their exciting itinerary suggestions get right to the heart of the best Bali has to offer. Today, theyre sharing one of their favourite luxury itineraries through Bali, on a journey of picture-perfect relaxation, vibrant culture and spectacular landscapes. Seminyak Anantara Seminyak Bali Start your journey in the trendy resort town of Seminyak. Set along the islands beautiful southern coast, this upscale beach destination is the perfect spot for some well-deserved rest and relaxation. Surrounded by unparalleled beauty, days are made for sipping on refreshing cocktails or embarking on underwater adventures in Balis waters, teeming with tropical sea life. Seminyaks sophisticated venues and luxury resorts sit alongside endless natural beauty and a laidback lifestyle, perfect for some well-deserved rejuvenation ahead of your discovery of Bali. Roisin ODowd, Oroko Travel Specialist, recommends Seminyak as a wonderful starting point on your Balinese adventure, Seminyak is the ideal spot to settle into the island life. Spend your days lounging by swimming pools or relaxing at high-end beach clubs, and finish with evenings in chic eateries and sunset bars. Ubud Next stop on Orokos luxury itinerary is Ubud, Balis vibrant cultural hub. Known for its traditional arts, crafts and dance, and enveloped in Balis upland rainforest, Ubud is the perfect spot for a total immersion into Balinese culture. The epicentre of Balis modern-day culture and ancient history, pay visits to the various Hindu temples and shrines, along with the ornate Palace of Ubud, the ancient residence of Ubuds Royal Family and some of the finest depictions of Balinese architecture. Como Uma, Ubud. The Sacred Monkey Forest is a must-visit for wildlife-lovers during your time in Ubud. With a focus on conserving rare plants for ritual purpose, along with serving as a natural laboratory for educational institutions, Ubuds Sacred Monkey Forest is both a nature reserve and beautiful temple complex. 115 separate species of trees have been identified, with the forest being home to around 900 Balinese long-tailed monkeys. During your time in Ubud, escape to the highlands of Bedugul, a fascinating town set on the shores of Lake Beratan. Stroll through colourful market stalls brimming with exotic produce or admire the natural beauty; with rich forests, soothing lakes and UNESCO-listed rice fields to be discovered. Be sure to also include a stop at Lempuyang Temple, Balis most sacred temple. Trek the hidden trails of pandan forests as you make your way to the temple before receiving your blessing from a Hindu priest, all whilst enjoying the remarkable views. End with a cooling dip in the palace pool. Uluwatu Alila Villas, Uluwatu. Located away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist spots, the region of Uluwatu is found on the south-western tip of the Bukit Peninsula and its limestone cliffs. Powdery sands, rugged cliffs and some of our favourite luxurious resorts make up Uluwatus stunning coastline. Its the perfect end to luxury holiday in Bali, says Mary Masterson, Oroko Travel Specialist. Seasoned surfers can take advantage of the waves, regarded as some of the globes best, while those looking to unwind can enjoy luxury treatments amidst the beauty of the Indian Ocean. For an unmissable cultural experience, the nightly Kecak Fire Dance in the temples amphitheatre is a wonderful addition to your time in Uluwatu. If youre feeling inspired, explore the range of luxury Bali holidays on the Oroko website or get in touch with the team to create a luxury Balinese journey of your own by calling 01 260 0240 or emailing info@orokotravel.ie. French President Emmanuel Macron has backtracked on his negative stance about gamers, months after he accused video games and social media of fuelling copycat violence across France. His original comments came in the wake of riots following the death of 17-year-old Nahel Merzouk, who was shot and killed by police in the Parisian suburb of Nanterre on June 27. The two officers alleged the teenagers had been driving dangerously with the traffic stop coming to a head when Mr Merzouk was killed from a single shot through his left arm and chest. Emmanuel Macron, President of France (Carl Court/PA) His death saw Nanterre erupt in protest, spreading nationwide mayhem in cities, towns and even villages across France. The riots were shared and celebrated on social media networks, leading Mr Macron to accuse youths of playing a considerable role in the unrest. He also blamed video games for fueling copycat violence. But he has taken to X, formerly known as Twitter, to praise gamers. Mr Macron posted: I expressed my concerns at the end of June because video game codes had been used by offenders to trivialise violence on social networks. Jai fait bondir les gamers. Jai pourtant toujours considere que les jeux video sont une chance pour la France, pour notre jeunesse et son avenir, pour nos emplois et notre economie. Je veux etre (plus) clair. Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) September 16, 2023 It is this violence that I condemn, not video games. He continued: I have always considered that video games are an opportunity for France, for our youth and its future, for our jobs and our economy. The industry inspires, makes people dream, makes them grow!. You can count on me. On July 1, he said the video games provide a sort of escape from reality among the young. Blaming something is a great way to escape the burden of responsibility. - Children don't study because of video games. - People are violent because of video games. - Video games are the reason my life isn't going well. - In the near future, video games will be responsible https://t.co/QTWqL5cH7S Katsuhiro Harada (@Harada_TEKKEN) July 6, 2023 We sometimes have the feeling that some of them are living out, on the streets, the video games that have intoxicated them, he said. The French Presidents remarks dismayed some in the gaming community, even beyond France. Japanese game director Kastuhiro Harada was among Macrons critics at the time. Mr Harada shared a video of Mr Macron lambasting gamers with the comment: Blaming something is a great way to escape the burden of responsibility. Chinas top foreign policy official is heading to Russia for security talks after two days of meetings with US president Joe Bidens national security adviser over the weekend in Malta. Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who also holds the ruling Communist Partys top foreign policy post, will be in Russia from Monday to Thursday for a round of China-Russia strategic security consultations, the Foreign Ministry said. The US and China are at odds over Russias invasion of Ukraine. China has refrained from taking sides in the war, saying that while a countrys territory must be respected, the West needs to consider Russias security concerns about Nato expansion. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi shakes hands with US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan in Malta in September (Lian Yi/Xinhua via AP/PA) It has accused the US of prolonging the fighting by providing arms to Ukraine, weaponry that the US says is needed to defend against Russian aggression. China and Russia have grown closer in recent years as relations with the West have deteriorated for both. China is looking for support as it seeks to reshape the US-led international order into one that is more accommodating to its approach. Last month, it helped engineer an expansion of the Brics partnership, which invited six more countries to join what has been a five-nation bloc that includes China, Russia, Brazil, India and South Africa. Mr Wang discussed the situation in Ukraine in his weekend meetings with US national security adviser Jake Sullivan. Both sides described the talks as candid, substantive and constructive as they try to stabilise their rocky relationship and manage differences over security, trade, technology and human rights. Specifics of their talks were not released. Mr Wang stepped down as foreign minister at the end of last year, taking on the more senior position of Communist Party foreign affairs chief, but was called back as foreign minister in July after his successor, Qin Gang, disappeared from public view. It is unclear what happened to Qin, but he may have fallen out of favour with the leadership. More recently, Chinas defence minister Li Shangfu also has not been seen in about three weeks, sparking speculation about his fate. Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called on Elon Musk, the head of electric carmaker Tesla, to establish a factory in Turkey during a meeting in New York. Mr Erdogan, who is in the US to attend the UN General Assembly, also discussed potential cooperation between Mr Musks space exploration firm SpaceX and Turkeys space programme, the Turkish presidents office said. Five prisoners, thought to include British-American-Iranian Morad Tahbaz, who were sought by the US as part of a swap have left Tehran, an official said. Flight-tracking data analysed by the Associated Press showed a Qatar Airways flight took off from Mehrabad International Airport, which has been used for exchanges in the past. Iranian state media soon after said the flight had left Tehran and a US official later confirmed five American prisoners and two family members were flying to the US. Earlier, a total of nearly $6bn (5.63bn) of Iranian assets once frozen in South Korea was sent to Qatar, a key element for the planned swap of prisoners. Iranian official Nasser Kanaani said: The issue of swap of prisoners will be done on this day and five prisoners, citizens of the Islamic Republic, will be released from the prisons in the US. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani speaks in Tehran (Iranian Foreign Ministry via AP) Five imprisoned citizens who were in Iran will be given to the US side reciprocally, based on their will. We expect these two issues fully take place based on agreement. He said two of the Iranian prisoners will stay in the US. The announcement by Mr Kanaani comes weeks after Iran said that five Iranian-Americans were under house arrest as part of a confidence-building move while Seoul allowed the frozen assets, held in South Korean currency, to be converted into euros. That money was then sent to Qatar, an interlocutor between Tehran and Washington in the negotiations. One of the five prisoners was Morad Tahbaz, a British-American conservationist of Iranian descent who was arrested in 2018 and received a 10-year sentence for alleged spying. The swap unfolded amid a major American military build-up in the Persian Gulf, with the possibility of US troops boarding and guarding commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of all oil shipments pass. The deal has opened President Joe Biden to fresh criticism from Republicans and others who say that the administration is helping boost the Iranian economy at a time when Iran poses a growing threat to US troops and Middle East allies. On the US side, Washington has said the planned swap includes Siamak Namazi, who was detained in 2015 and later sentenced to 10 years in prison on internationally criticised spying charges, Emad Sharghi, a venture capitalist sentenced to 10 years, as well as Mr Tahbaz. US officials have so far declined to identify the fourth and fifth prisoner. The five prisoners Iran has said it seeks are mostly held over allegedly trying to export material to Iran. President Joe Biden could face criticism over the prisoner swap (Andrew Harnik/AP) The final dollar amount from Seoul could be anywhere between 6 billion to 7 billion, depending on exchange rates. The cash represents money South Korea owed Iran but had not yet paid for oil purchased before the Trump administration imposed sanctions on such transactions in 2019. The US maintains that, once in Qatar, the money will be held in restricted accounts and will only be able to be used for humanitarian goods, such as medicine and food. Those transactions are allowed under American sanctions targeting the Islamic Republic over its advancing nuclear programme. Iranian government officials have largely concurred with that explanation, though some hard-liners have insisted, without providing evidence, that there would be no restrictions on how Tehran spends the money. Iran and the US have a history of prisoner swaps dating back to the 1979 US Embassy takeover and hostage crisis following the Islamic Revolution. Their most recent major exchange happened in 2016, when Iran came to a deal with world powers to restrict its nuclear programme in return for an easing of sanctions. Four American captives, including Washington Post journalist Jason Rezaian, flew home from Iran at the time, and several Iranians in the US won their freedom. That same day, President Barack Obamas administration airlifted 400 million dollars in cash to Tehran. Iran has received international criticism over its targeting of people with dual citizenship. The West accuses Iran of using foreign prisoners as bargaining chips, an allegation Tehran rejects. Negotiations over a major prisoner swap faltered after then-president Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew America from the nuclear deal in 2018. From the following year on, a series of attacks and ship seizures attributed to Iran have raised tensions. Meanwhile, Irans nuclear programme now enriches closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. While the head of the United Nations nuclear watchdog has warned that Iran now has enough enriched uranium to produce several bombs, months more would likely be needed to build a weapon and potentially miniaturise it to put it on a missile if Iran decided to pursue one. The US intelligence community has maintained its assessment that Iran is not pursuing an atomic bomb. Since the 2019 peak, teen vaping rates have been freefalling. Kids today are vaping at about the same rate they were in 2014, a decrease of nearly 50%. Yet the public health narrative remains stuck in the past. Officials bemoan teen vaping rates, while ignoring the benefits e-cigarettes and other smoke-free nicotine products provide adults who smoke. Its time for experts to update their priorities and ensure that efforts to prevent kids from habitually using nicotine dont undermine the fight to get adults off traditional cigarettes. Vaping is one of the most effective tools available to help people who smoke quit for good. A new review in the Journal of Consumer Policy found that every additional e-cigarette or other electronic nicotine delivery system sold per capita is associated with 1.4 fewer packs of traditional cigarettes sold per capita, relative to expectations. Cutting-edge research underscores the stakes. A U.K. health agency found e-cigarettes are at least 95% less harmful to users and the public than traditional cigarettes. People who vape are exposed to negligible levels of toxic compounds, while traditional cigarette smoke has thousands of harmful chemicals. And a study in Nicotine & Tobacco Research concluded that adults who smoke using flavored e-cigarettes, particularly menthol or mint, are more likely to quit successfully. Even so, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has taken steps to block flavored e-cigarettes for adults. Its just the latest evidence along with Commissioner Robert Califf weighing in on politicized issues like drug pricing that the FDA is abandoning its mandate in the name of partisan politics. In New York, lawmakers have been particularly ruthless. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer supports the FDAs import red list strategy to block imports of certain e-cigarettes. The panic around e-cigarettes is distracting public health officials from other worrying trends. More teens are smoking weed today than in previous years, for example. And many researchers are alarmed about the impacts of social media overuse. The bottom line is simple: Regulators are still denying adults their best chance to quit smoking. Five prisoners sought by the US in a prisoner swap with Iran including British-American-Iranian Morad Tahbaz have landed in Qatar, officials said. It is part of a deal that saw nearly six billion dollars (4.85 billion) in Iranian assets unfrozen. Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home, US President Joe Biden said in a statement released as the plane carrying the group from Tehran landed in Doha, Qatar. After the plane slowed to a stop, three of the prisoners walked down the ramp and were greeted by the US ambassador to Qatar, Timmy Davis. The former prisoners hugged the ambassador and others. The three Mr Tahbaz, Siamak Namazi and Emad Sharghi then wrapped their arms around their shoulders and walked off to a building in the airport. Roxanne Tahbaz holds a picture of her father Morad Tahbaz who was jailed in Iran, during a protest outside the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office in London on April 13, 2022 (Stefan Rousseau/PA) In a statement issued on his behalf after landing, Mr Namazi said: I would not be free today, if it wasnt for all of you who didnt allow the world to forget me. Thank you for being my voice when I could not speak for myself and for making sure I was heard when I mustered the strength to scream from behind the impenetrable walls of Evin Prison, Mr Namazi said. In addition to the five who were freed, two US family members flew out of Tehran, according to a senior Biden administration official, who spoke on condition of anonymity when the exchange was ongoing. Despite the deal, tensions are almost certain to remain high between the US and Iran, which are locked in various disputes, including over Tehrans nuclear programme. Iran says the programme is peaceful, but it now enriches uranium closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. The planned exchange has unfolded amid a major American military build-up in the Persian Gulf, with the possibility of US troops boarding and guarding commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of all oil shipments pass. Earlier, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani said that the exchange would take place Monday after nearly six billion dollars in once-frozen Iranian assets reached Qatar. Fortunately Irans frozen assets in South Korea were released and God willing today the assets will start to be fully controlled by the government and the nation, Mr Kanaani said. On the subject of the prisoner swap, it will happen today and five prisoners, citizens of the Islamic Republic, will be released from the prisons in the US, he added. Five imprisoned citizens who were in Iran will be given to the US side. He said two of the Iranian prisoners will stay in the US. Meanwhile, Nour News, a website believed to be close to Irans security apparatus, said two of the Iranian prisoners had arrived in Doha for the swap. Mohammad Reza Farzin, Irans Central Bank chief, later came on state television to acknowledge the receipt of more than 5.5 billion euros in accounts in Qatar. Months ago, Iran had anticipated getting as much as seven billion. Chinas top diplomat has begun several days of security consultations with Russian officials following his weekend talks with US President Joe Bidens national security adviser in Malta. Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who simultaneously holds the ruling Communist Partys top foreign policy post, will be in Russia until Thursday for strategic security consultations, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Mr Wang opened his talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov by hailing strategic co-operation between the two countries and their shared commitment to a multipolar world and a more just world order, terms Moscow and Beijing use to describe their efforts to counterbalance the perceived US domination of global affairs. Chinese Communist Partys foreign policy chief Wang Yi (Tatan Syuflana/AP/PA) China and Russia, as leading global powers and permanent members of the UN Security Council, bear special responsibility for maintaining global strategic stability and global development, Mr Wang said. The more violent the unilateral actions of hegemony and bloc confrontation become, the more important for us to keep up with the times, show a sense of duty as great powers, and further fulfil our international obligations. He stressed that Russia-China cooperation isnt directed against anyone and isnt influenced by any other countries. Mr Lavrov emphasised the importance of Russian-Chinese co-operation for ensuring justice in world affairs, for ensuring a balance of interests in the processes that are developing in a variety of directions. He noted that Russia and China will co-ordinate their efforts during this weeks UN General Assembly and other international forums. The US and China are at odds over Russias military action in Ukraine. China has refrained from taking sides in the conflict, saying that while a countrys territory must be respected, the West needs to consider Russias security concerns about Nato expansion. It has accused the US of prolonging the fighting by providing arms to Ukraine, weaponry that the US says Kyiv needs to fight back against Russia. Mr Wangs trip to Moscow comes a day after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un left Russia following a six-day visit that included talks with President Vladimir Putin at a far eastern spaceport, visits to aircraft plants and inspections of nuclear-capable strategic bombers and an advanced warship. Mr Kims trip fuelled Western concerns about an arms alliance that could boost Russian arsenals for fighting in Ukraine. Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov (Russian Foreign Ministry Press Service/AP) China and Russia have grown closer as relations with the West have deteriorated for both. China is looking for support as it seeks to reshape the US-led international order into one that is more accommodating to its approach. Last month, it helped engineer an expansion of the BRICS partnership, which invited six more countries to join what has been a five-nation bloc that includes China and Russia. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning called Mr Wangs visit to Russia a routine one to hold in-depth talks on major strategic security interests. Mr Wang discussed Ukraine in his weekend meetings with US national security adviser Jake Sullivan. Both sides described the talks as candid, substantive and constructive as they try to stabilise their rocky relationship and manage differences over security, trade, technology and human rights. Specifics of their talks were not released. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi shakes hands with US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan in Malta in September (Lian Yi/Xinhua via AP/PA) Mr Wang stepped down as foreign minister at the end of last year, taking on the more senior position of Communist Party foreign affairs chief, but was called back to the post in July after his successor, Qin Gang, disappeared from public view. It is unclear what happened to Mr Qin, but he may have fallen out of favour with the leadership. More recently, Chinas defence minister, Li Shangfu, also has not been seen for about three weeks, sparking speculation about his fate. It is unusual for two sitting Cabinet members to disappear from sight, although it does not appear to signal any obvious change in defence or foreign policy. The Chinese government has said nothing about Mr Lis disappearance. Asked about it on Monday, Ms Mao, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said she was not aware of the situation. At least 40 civilians have been killed by the juntas airstrikes, indiscriminate shelling and gun shots, often to the head, in six resistance strongholdsBago, Magwe, Mandalay, Sagaing and Tanintharyi regions and Karen Statesince the beginning of September, resistance groups said. At least 19 people have been killed by junta troops in Katha, Indaw, Myinmu and Sagaing townships of Sagaing Region since the first week of September. At least eight people were killed in a series of raids conducted by junta troops in the regions Katha Township, resistance forces said. The most recent killings in the region occurred on Sunday where four residents of Toke Gyi Village were shot dead by junta infantry. Weve found at least four bodies, so far. They also arrested at least five villagers, a local resistance member said. The killings followed a clash on Sunday when resistance forces from Min Lel and Toke Gyi villages attacked six barges carrying about 200 junta troops from Mandalay that arrived Katha Town on Sunday. Nearby Toke Gyi Village was torched by junta infantry, destroying at least 38 homes. Another column of junta troops killed a civilian in Nyaung Pin Kwin Village on September 13, a resistance member from Katha said. He also said three residents of Pyin Htaung Lay Village were killed by junta troops during the first week of September. Indaw Revolution resistance group said three people, including a Buddhist monk, were killed in Sagaings Indaw Township when junta warplanes bombed Kha Yan Sat Kone Village on September 15. At least four people, including a resistance member, were killed in Myinmu Townships Nyaung Yin Village on September 14 and September 15, sources said. In Sagaing Township, three groups of junta forces have killed at least four people in a series of raids that began on September 14. All the victims were shot in the head. We cremated their bodies yesterday, a resistance member said. Junta forces also destroyed two resistance camps in the townships Kin Taw and Myin Se villages on September 14. They are currently stationed in Nyaung Pin Wun Village, sources said. Junta troops killed at least six people, including a resistance member, in Magwe Regions Myaing and Gangaw townships between September 9 and 16. A series of clashes broke out between junta troops and resistance forces in Magwe in early September. The Myaing People Defense Force (PDF) reported that two people, including one resistance member, from Kan Gyi Yoe Village were killed by junta troops between September 9 and September 11. Junta forces also arrested eight villagers from Kan Gyi Yoe Village on September 9 and killed two of them on September 16, the PDF said. In Gangaw Township, two residents died instantly and seven more were injured by junta indiscriminate shelling on September 16, the PDF said. Four people, including a restaurant owner and his wife, were killed by a Pyu Saw Htee pro-junta militia in Singu Township in Mandalay Region on September 17. The killing was in retaliation for a resistance attack against a Phyu Saw Htee member which happened at the restaurant or the victims, sources said. Myeik People Defense Force said four villagers, including two women, were shot dead by junta troops in Let Ku Village in Tanintharyi Township on September 17. Fighting lasted for two days in the village and one resident was killed by junta shelling on September 16, the PDF said. At least six people were killed and 17 were injured by junta airstrikes and indiscriminate shelling in territory controlled by the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) in Bago Region and Karen State. The KNLA reported that two people were killed and 10 more were injured by junta shelling in Bagos Nyaung Lay Bin Township between September 1 and September 12. A teacher and three students were also killed during a junta airstrike in Hpapun Township on September 7. By The Myanmar juntas military has launched a major operation against the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) in a bid to recapture an outpost in Lailum Aungja Village near Laiza Township, Kachin State, which the ethnic army seized and occupied on Saturday, according to local residents and KIA sources. The KIA seized the outpost, located across Laiza Creek from Nam San Yang Village near the KIA headquarters in Laiza, at around 8 a.m. on Saturday. About five dozen junta military troops were stationed at the base when it was seized. We started launching an attack on one of their outposts in that area by firing artillery and launching drones. Then, most of the junta troops moved to another outpost, said KIA spokesperson Colonel Naw Bu. Aside from the one seized by the KIA in Lailum Aungja, the junta military has two other outposts in the area. Since we seized it, they have been sending in jet fighters and dropping bombs on Nam San Yang and around the Aungja villages at least seven or eight times a day up to today, Naw Bu said. The KIA still has control of the outpost. The Myitkyina-Bhamo Road remains shut down, as long stretches of it have become battlefields. Clashes started breaking out at around 8 a.m., and they fired artillery shells at each other, said a 53-year-old ethnic Kachin man who fled Nam San Yang in July. Right after the KIA seized the outpost, two junta jet fighters arrived and bombed and strafed the forested area with automatic gunfire in a bid to kill the KIA troops, said a KIA source. The jet fighters dropped bombs, then they came back again and dropped more bombs. We have not yet been able to get detailed casualty figures, he said. The junta military has continued to send reinforcements into the area as it attempts to seize back the outpost in Aungja Village. Additional clashes between junta military troops and KIA forces broke out in at least three locations on the Bhamo-Myitkyina road today. The junta has continued to deploy troops across the river, while its aircraft have dropped at least three bombs on Nam San Yang, according to KIA officers. According to a statement released on Sept. 7 by the Ministry of Defense under the National Unity Government, at least 135 junta military outposts have been seized by Peoples Defense Force groups and allied ethnic armed groups. The KIA said it seized two Myanmar junta outposts and one held by the regime-allied Shan Nationalities Army (SNA) in Hpakant Township, Kachin State on Monday. The KIA attacked the outposts on Mount Kathaing and at Nam Hmaw Village, and the SNA position near a bridge in Sal Zin Village in Myanmars jade-mining hub, KIA spokesman Colonel Naw Bu said. Myanmars parallel civilian National Unity Government has launched Spring Pyin Oo Lwin Investment to raise funds for the ongoing revolution against the junta by selling thousands of acres of military-owned land, including the Defense Services Academy, in Pyin Oo Lwin Town, Mandalay Region. The land sale is the latest fundraising effort by the NUGs Ministry of Planning, Finance and Investment (MOPFI). The ministry said the military-owned land and buildings will be reclaimed once the junta is ousted, then developed as projects to benefit the public. The NUG aims to develop education services, a hill resort, and organic agriculture with the military-owned land in Pyin Oo Lwin, a scenic hill town and popular tourism spot in Myanmar. Suitable plots of land in the town will be sold off without affecting the development plans, the ministry said. Details of the project will soon be announced to the public in Myanmar and abroad, who can participate by connecting with the The End of Dictatorship (EOD) program in various countries around the world. Land will be sold at one-third of the market price and buyers are required to make a downpayment of only 40 percent. The remaining 60 percent must be paid in the post-revolutionary period when the project is launched, an EOD representative said. Praising the move, a resident of Pyin Oo Lwin said the town is home to large tracts of land seized by the military which should be seized to raise funds for the revolution. Elsewhere, the MOPFI has launched the Spring Inya, Spring Valour and Spring Bliss condominium and housing projects, to be built on land illegally seized by the military in Yangon townships. It has also founded Spring Mandalay Investment with three projects Spring Rose, Spring Oasis and Spring Aurora. The projects will use land confiscated from the military and sold to public investors to raise funds for the revolution. Junta boss Min Aung Hlaings illegally seized property at 14 Inya Road in Yangon was also put up for sale by the NUG in late May, raising US $10 million. The MOPFI has so far raised about $100 million from similar projects, including the sale of two houses owned by Min Aung Hlaing and other land owned by the military. Myanmars military regime last week opened a consulate in Belarus, the latest move to promote closer diplomatic relations with a country that is one of the juntas arms providers as well as one of the few states globally seeking closer ties with North Korea. The consulate in Minsk is the latest of 18 Myanmar has opened around the world. Last year, Belarus appointed an ambassador to Myanmar. Regime Foreign Minister Than Swe, Deputy foreign Minister of Belarus Evgeny Shestakov, officials from the Belarusian Foreign Ministry, diplomats, and Myanmar scholars in Minsk attended the opening reception of the consulate general on September 15, according to a juntas press release. Prior to his visit to Minsk, Than Swe visited Russia where he met his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov. The regime has already opened consulates in St Petersburg and Novosibirsk, Russias third-largest city. Russia and Belarus are major arms suppliers to the Myanmar regime. Washington sanctioned three Myanmar nationals in October last year for brokering Russian arms via Belarus. Russia has always been supportive of the regime at the United Nations and Belarus also refused to condemn the regimes coup at the UN. During his meeting with Sergey Lavrov, Than Swe thanked Russia for its support at the UN. Than Swe also met with Belarus Foreign Minister Sergei Aleinik on September 15 to discuss bilateral trade as well as economic, scientific and technical, and educational and cultural cooperation. Aleinik welcomed the opening of Myanmar consulate general in Minsk while Than Swe expressed his appreciation to Belarus for its support at the UN. Myanmar regime boss Min Aung Hlaing visited Belarus in 2004 to meet with President Alexander Lukashenko, who has run the former republic with an iron fist since 1994. Myanmars junta supported the Russian invasion of Ukraine and Belarus allowed Russian troops to cross its border into Ukraine during the war. Both the European Union and the United States have imposed a raft of sanctions on businesspeople, politicians and state-owned enterprises in Belarus for alleged electoral fraud and complicity in Russias invasion of Ukraine. Lukashenko this week called for an alliance between Russia, North Korea and Belarus. A Myanmar resistance group claims it used an improvised drone to bomb a junta airbase in the regimes administrative capital of Naypyitaw last Friday. The Iron Tiger Battalion of Northern Thandaung Defense Force (NTDF) and allied drone unit Lethal Prop deployed a makeshift remote-controlled winged drone to drop two improvised bombs targeting the aircraft hangers at the Aye Lar military base next to Naypyitaw International Airport at 3 pm on Sept. 15, said NTDF. Aerial video released by the resistance group shows the remote-controlled aircraft dropping bombs while hovering over the junta base. Details of damage and/or casualties caused by the strike are unknown. Myanmar netizens have praised the groups ability to evade jamming equipment at the airbase and successfully conduct a drone strike. The resistance groups reportedly bombarded the same airbase with rockets in mid-April. Resistance groups including Peoples Defense Forces (PDFs), the armed wing of the civilian National Unity Government (NUG), and the armed wing of the powerful Karen National Union (KNU), have stepped up anti-regime attacks near the capital Naypyitaw, directly threatening the juntas nerve center. The second week of August saw clashes break out in Pyinmana Township, about 40 kilometers east of downtown Naypyitaw, when Iron Tiger Battalion and an allied group raided and occupied a strategic military outpost in mountainous terrain. The resistance groups also ambushed junta troops sent as reinforcements. The clashes killed an estimated 50 regime troops and three resistance fighters, while the junta responded by conducting airstrikes. At least 31 Myanmar junta troops were killed in the last four days as Peoples Defense Force groups and ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) stepped up attacks on regime targets across the country. In one case a resistance group conducted drone strikes on a military air base in the juntas administrative capital Naypyitaw. Incidents were reported in Naypyitaw, Sagaing, Magwe, Mandalay, Bago and Tanintharyi regions. The Irrawaddy has rounded up the following reports of significant attacks from the PDFs and EAOs. Some military casualty figures could not be independently verified. Military air base bombed by improvised drone in Naypyitaw An improvised airplane drops bombs on Aye Lar military air base in the juntas administrative capital Naypyitaw last Friday. / NTDF The resistance group Iron Tiger Battalion said it used a makeshift remote-controlled airplane to drop bombs targeting aircraft hangers at the Aye Lar military air base beside Naypyitaw International Airport in the juntas administrative capital in a special operation last Friday. A resistance video also shows a drone dropping two improvised bombs on the junta air base. Details of damage and military casualties were unknown. Military regional command headquarters shelled in Sagaing Chindwin Attack Force said it and other resistance groups jointly used 120-mm and 60-mm mortar rounds to shell the headquarters of the North West Military Command in Monywa Town, Sagaing Region last Friday. The mortar rounds exploded in the compound of the base, but details of damage and casualties were unknown. Army captain killed in drone strikes in Sagaing Resistance forces conduct a drone strike against regime forces stationed at a village school in Wetlet Township last Friday. An army captain was killed and five other troops seriously injured in Wetlet Township, Sagaing Region last Friday when combined resistance groups used drones to drop bombs on regime forces stationed at a school in Shwekyin Village, said Black Wolf Army, which coordinated the attack. Military unit bombed in Sagaing Shwebos Fighters Without Borders claimed to have killed three regime forces and injured seven others as it and other resistance groups triggered land mines to ambush a military unit of 30 troops patrolling on the Shwebo-Kyaung Myaung road in Shwebo Township, Sagaing Region last Friday. Military unit ambushed with land mines in Sagaing Civilian Defense and Security Organization of Myaung (CDSOM) claimed it and seven other resistance groups killed five regime forces and injured seven others as it triggered land mines to ambush a military unit between two villages in Myaung Township, Sagaing Region on Saturday. Regime forces bombed in Sagaing Ghost Team Ranger (Myinmu) said it and three other resistance groups used drones to drop 11 bombs on regime forces stationed at a school and the township General Administration Department office in Myinmu town, Sagaing Region on Saturday. After being bombed, the regime forces attacked the residential wards in the town using drone bombs and firearms, injuring four civilians. Series of clashes erupts in Bago Clashes raged for three days in Minhla Township, Bago Region from last Thursday when Thayawady District PDF Battalion 3802 attacked regime units attempting to retake their base in the Bago Yoma mountains, which was seized and burned by the resistance groups on Sept. 9, according to the PDF group. Last Thursday and Friday the PDF group ambushed two military units secretly attempting to reoccupy the base, forcing the regime forces to retreat from the area. On Saturday, clashes continued as resistance groups ambushed regime forces on trucks trying to reach their former base. A military vehicle was destroyed in the clash, but resistance forces had to retreat from the site due to a lack of ammunition and the arrival of junta reinforcements. Eight soldiers were killed and at least five injured on the day, the PDF group said. Heavy clash erupts in Mandalays Mogoke Clashes broke out in two locations in Mogoke Township, Mandalay Region last Friday when three battalions of military troops attempted to raid areas controlled by the Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA), the ethnic Palaung armed group said. During the clashes, the junta used a fighter jet to attack the ethnic fighters. Casualties on both sides were unknown. Five regime forces killed in land mine ambush in Mandalay The Defense Ministry of the civilian National Unity Government (NUG) said one of its armed wings, Madaya PDF, triggered land mines to ambush a military infantry unit leaving a village in Madaya Township, Mandalay Region on Saturday morning, killing five regime forces. Clashes break out in Tanintharyi Palaw PDF, which forms Myeik District PDF Battalion 1 of the National Unity Government (NUG), said it killed five regime forces during two days of clashes as it attacked regime forces stationed in Lat Kuu Village in Palaw Township, Tanintharyi Region last Friday and Saturday. During the clashes, a military battalion nearby and gunboats off the coast shelled the village to help their ground troops, killing a civilian. Junta troops later left the village, after using around 100 detained villagers as human shields, said Palaw PDF. Regime forces pounded in Magwe Resistance drones drop bombs on regime targets in a village in Gangaw Township last Friday. At least four regime forces were killed and 17 injured in Gangaw Township, Magwe Region last Friday when HYPER UAV Forces and other resistance groups including the All Burma Students Democratic Front (ABSDF) used drones to drop bombs on a military unit of 100 troops stationed in Thin Taw Village. The regime forces fled the village after the drone strikes. Cuban-born architect Willy Borroto is equally at ease creating the dream residence of an art collector as he is planning a futuristic highrise or cruising the island in his convertible after sipping Cuban coffee and discussing local events with regulars at the old Oasis Restaurant. Version en espanol His brilliant career, which has spanned six decades, is as rich in accolades as the diversity of his designs. Borroto graduated from the Academia de Artes Plasticas San Alejandro in Havana, then earned his Bachelor of Architecture with Honors from the University of California at Berkeley. He has been recognized for his talent in the US and on Key Biscayne where he leaves a legacy of four residential developments, 21 private residences, three office buildings, and one center of worship as well as abroad. His legacy has reached Ecuador, Venezuela, and the Caribbean Islands. The respect for the ecology and the rational use of space are further indications that the principal focus is precisely he who benefits the most: man himself, said the man who is both creative genius and pragmatist. In 1997, Aboard Magazine recognized Borroto, who had been battling Parkinsons disease, with the indomitable spirit of a champion and one of the continents leading architects. The architects design work has been included in the Latino/Hispanic Design Archives at the Cooper Hewitt National Design Museum of the Smithsonian Institute in New York since 1999. Borrotos works will be recognized at the American Museum of the Cuban Diaspora in Miami from September 22 to November 22 in an exhibition of award-winning architectural projects by a distinguished group of Cuban-American architects in exile. Borroto recently celebrated his 85-year birthday surrounded by over 100 friends and family. See page 21 of this weeks Islander News. U.S. Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) on Saturday joined striking autoworkers outside the Ford Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan, with Fetterman saying he drove about five hours from Braddock, Pa., in his UAW-made Ford Bronco to get to the plant. I always stand for the union way of life, Fetterman said. Whatever the unions say is in their best interest, thats what Im going to stand for. For the first time in history, the UAW has declared a strike against all three domestic automakers: Ford, General Motors and Stellantis. The union has three initial strike targets: Fords Michigan Assembly Plant, GMs Wentzville plant in Missouri and Stellantis Jeep plant in Toledo, Ohio. Striking UAW workers walk the picket line outside the Ford Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Mich. on Sept. 16, 2023. (Andrew Roth/Michigan Advance) The union is fighting for increased wages, a 32-hour work week and better pension benefits, among other issues such as an end to tiered compensation between workers with different lengths of service. Fetterman called President Joe Biden the best labor president in recent time. He spent about 15 minutes talking to workers, although not all were supportive. One worker, wearing an Impeach Biden shirt, shouted to get the dude whos trying to say hes John Fetterman out of here, citing baseless conspiracy theories that Fetterman has a body double and never recovered from his stroke. Im totally taking a picture with John Fetterman. This is my man right here. You dont know nothing about labor if you dont know about John Fetterman, another worker said over the yelling. U.S. Sen. Gary Peters (D-Bloomfield Hills) said that while he and Fetterman hope the UAW can reach a deal with the auto companies quickly, its important to focus on the big picture even if the strikes drag on. When workers get fair wages and see an increase in wages, thats great for the economy, Peters said. The more money you put in the pockets of middle-class workers in this country, the stronger our economy is. Fetterman offered a contrast between the demands of workers and the combined $74 million earned by the CEOs of the Detroit Three auto companies. Its $74 million, you know, collectively earning that. How many yachts can they need to water ski behind? Its just crazy. Do whats right for the unions in this nation and in Michigan. U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) on Friday led a UAW rally in Detroit where he also decried corporate greed. A slew of Democratic politicians were at the event, including Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist, U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-Holly), U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Ann Arbor) and more. This story appeared on the website of the Florida Phoenix, a nonprofit news organization dedicated to coverage of state government and politics from Tallahassee. News / Local by Staff reporter Scheduled maintenance activities will result in a planned electricity outage in Bulawayo's city center today from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) issued a statement indicating that the following areas will be affected:11th Avenue12th Avenue13th Avenue14th AvenueTM PicknPay Hyper SupermarketEsats Stationery & School WearGreat Fort MealsHeads and Hooves ButcherySurrounding areasCustomers are advised to consider all circuits as live during this period, as power restoration may occur without prior notice, according to the statement. Monday, Sep 18th, 2023 (11:03 am) - Score 1,056 Network builder and broadband ISP Quickline, which is deploying gigabit speed full fibre (FTTP) infrastructure to 96 rural locations (55,000 premises) across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire in England (deployment plan), has launched a new free until youre free offer that gives people the chance to join them for free until their existing contract runs out. The provider, fuelled by 500m from Northleaf Capital Partners (acquired Quickline in 2021), has previously stated that they hold an aspiration to cover 500,000 premises in UK rural and semi-rural areas with ultrafast broadband via both Fibre-to-the-Premises (FTTP) and 5G based fixed wireless infrastructure by 2025 (here). So far they already claim to have covered 300,000 premises via their wireless network, while their much more recent full fibre deployment has covered 10,000 premises across over 20 rural communities (Dec 2022). But sometimes customers want to move to the network, yet find that theyre trapped by an existing contract with another ISP that would be costly to exit (i.e. early termination charges). In response, Quickline are now giving new customers the chance to join them for free until their existing contract runs out. The terms for this deal state that the maximum value of this offer is in line with the maximum residential contract term allowed by OFCOM, which is 24 months. In a separate offer, new customers can alternatively choose to join Quickline for 90 days for free, with no hidden costs and no contract. Sean Royce, Quicklines CEO, said: We dont believe any customer should suffer with a poor broadband service. Broadband is so important to daily life, from work to socialising, and choosing to live in a rural area shouldnt be at the expense of having great internet access. Thats why weve launched this new initiative, which we believe is unique in the industry. For too long, many rural customers have been locked into lengthy contracts while receiving an unreliable, slow service. We think our new offer will change that and give customers a high-quality alternative. We should point out that other ISPs have launched similar incentives to switch in the past, although they usually amount of limited account credits. But the terms of this offer suggest that Quickline may be going a step further by offering a much bigger degree of cost protection for those willing to switch to them. 1371138342::cfb49c8e-2422-11e5-99a3-d7f5c6e8b241 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. News / Local by Staff reporter Over the past week, the Department of Immigration's regional compliance and enforcement unit has apprehended 567 suspected criminals at Beitbridge Border Post as part of an intensified effort to combat irregular migration and other crimes occurring between Zimbabwe and South Africa. The crackdown aims to address criminal activities such as border jumping, touting, the use of fake immigration stamps, and the use of counterfeit travel documents.Mrs. Canisia Magaya, the head of compliance at Beitbridge Border Post, emphasized their commitment to fighting crime and urged people to opt for legal and safe migration methods. She revealed that during the past week's operations, 561 individuals paid fines, six went to court, five were convicted, and one was warned. This outcome serves as a warning to potential offenders.Mrs. Magaya noted that the compliance operations would continue targeting known criminal hotspots and that educational efforts regarding safe migration methods would also be ongoing. She highlighted the role of automated and biometrics-related services in monitoring illegal activities at the border.Beitbridge Border Post handles a substantial volume of travelers, including around 15,000 travelers, 3,000 private cars, 200 buses, and 1,200 commercial trucks daily. Recent upgrades, in partnership with the ZimBorders Consortium, have modernized the facility at a cost of US$300 million, facilitating the implementation of a one-stop border between Zimbabwe and South Africa.The border authorities aim to transform Beitbridge into a world-class facility, free from illegal activities and welcoming to genuine travelers. Additionally, they seek to protect genuine travelers from falling victim to touts and advised travelers to cooperate with officials and adhere to border regulations to avoid scams. News / Local by Staff reporter An estimated 10,000 young Zimbabweans running away from high unemployment and a broken economy among other factors have turned their backs on local universities and are now studying in Zambia, The Mirror has established.Lusaka Health Institute alone has an estimated 123 first, second and third-year nursing students, The Mirror was told.Joseph Mukina an agent who processes applications for Zimbabwean students said that there are at least 200 Zimbabwean students in each of the 58 institutes of higher learning that he deals with. This brings the total number of Zimbabwean students in the country to over 10,000.A source at Chirundu Border Post said the flood of Zimbabwean students crossing north into Zambia at the start of new semesters cannot be ignored anymore.An analyst who declined to be named said the migration of students out of the country is a sign of a lack of confidence in the future. He said it proves the economy has collapsed.Another analyst said Zimbabwe is the most failed State with millions of citizens all over the the region. He said Zimbabwe's cold war with Zambia is uncalled for.It seemed unimaginable in the last few years that Zimbabweans could flood Zambia, a far poorer country. Zimbabwean students have over the years turned from one country for education to another as they find no jobs after qualifying.First, they turned in hordes to South Africa for higher education but as huge regional populations started to affect job opportunities in that country they started going to Poland four years ago and now it is Zambia which is the new source of higher education.Parents and students who spoke to The Mirror gave various reasons why Zambia has become their first choice for education. They said that Zambian universities are generally cheaper and fees are paid in the local currency which is stable, unlike the Zimbabwean currency.The fees in Zambia start from as little as $300.Some students complain that Zimbabwean education is now of poor quality because universities are more focused on making money. One engineering student said that he left a State university here and went to Zambia because one can finish a degree programme without ever setting foot in a workshop. He left the university when he was in year two.The highest intakes in Zambia are in nursing. The students who spoke to The Mirror said programme restrictions in Zambia are less stringent than in Zimbabwe. Unlike in Zimbabwe, students are not bonded after completing a nursing course.In Zambia, one can embark on a nursing programme even after several O-level sittings, and students are allowed to resit their O-level English while studying for a degree.Medicine is another popular programme for Zimbabwean students and this is because Zambians take students from 10 points, said a source.The Minister of Higher Education, Dr Amon Murwira said he saw nothing wrong with Zimbabweans going to Zambia to further their education."People would want to twist the story to suit their narrative, but the truth is that everyone has his own choice. We have a lot of Zimbabweans studying in China and other countries and we also have a lot of Zambians in our institutions of higher learning," he said.The Mirror, however, tried to establish whether Zimbabwe has Zambians in its institutions of higher learning but found none. Foreign students from the region who used to come to Zimbabwe because of political instability in their countries are no longer around."I am a registered agent. I process scores of applications every day. Programmes in Zambia begin at $300 upwards. Life is cheaper in Zambia, because of the stable currency. Most people take nursing courses," said Mukina.He said that some of the popular institutions are Africa University, Cavendish University (Lusaka), Central African Baptist University, Chreso University, Copperstone University, Eden University, Gideon Robert University, Information and Communications University (ICU), Lusaka Apex Medical University, Management College of Southern Africa (MANCOSA) (Lusaka).Rusangu University, South Valley University, St. Bonaventure University, Texila American University Zambia, UNICAF University, University of Lusaka, Victoria Falls University of Technology (VFU), Zambia Catholic University and Zambian Open UniversityMukina said he processes hundreds of applications every month from Zimbabweans seeking enrolment at Zambian colleges. News / Local by Staff reporter FOUR people are feared dead after the boat they were travelling in capsized between Nyaodza and Wafawafa camp in Lake Kariba on Saturday afternoon.A Nyaodza fishing camp resident Memory Sambureni told NewsDay yesterday that the dinghy which was heading to Wafawafa camp from Nyaodza fishing camp was carrying five people including the boat captain.She suspects that the vessel was overloaded."The boat was heading towards Wafawafa carrying five people and one fisherman survived, while the other four are feared dead," Sambureni said. "The fifth passenger who was said to have been wearing a life jacket survived after swimming to safety."Department of Water and Inland Lake captain Adan Nyekete confirmed the accident saying investigations were underway."I have received information pertaining to the accident and our team is now on the ground. We will furnish you with details after investigations," Nyekete said.Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority spokesperson Tinashe Farawo also confirmed the accident describing it as unfortunate."A small motorised boat capsized on Lake Kariba and four people are missing and automatically feared dead. One person was rescued by fishermen after being found clutching on a 20-litre container. The rescue teams are currently on the ground," he said.In 2021, five people died after a boat carrying eight people capsized on its way from Nyaodza to Lake Harvest habour. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has addressed the participants of the international conference themed "Increasing national and global efforts to clarify the fate of missing persons", Azernews reports. The letter reads: Dear conference participants! I welcome you to the international conference on missing persons during armed conflicts. The issue of missing persons is one of the most topical problems facing Azerbaijan, and the theme of the conference is of special relevance for our country. During the first Karabakh war, a total of 3,890 of our fellow citizens went missing as a result of Armenian occupation of the territories of Azerbaijan. There is irrefutable evidence that 872 of the total number of missing persons were taken as prisoners of war or remained in the previously occupied territories. According to reliable information, the missing persons were tortured, murdered by Armenia and buried in mass graves in the previously occupied territories of Azerbaijan. The issue of clarifying the fate of missing persons has always been in the spotlight for the state of Azerbaijan. In 1993, the State Commission on Prisoners of War, Missing Persons and Hostages was established and has been operating effectively over the years. The liberation of Azerbaijani lands from occupation in 2020 ushered new opportunities for clarifying the fate of the persons who went missing in the First Karabakh war. However, the contamination of our territories with mines and unexploded military ordnance by Armenia creates serious obstacles to the process of identifying mass graves and carrying out exhumation work. Immediately after the Patriotic War, important steps were taken to strengthen the capacity of the State Commission, determine the places of mass graves in the territories freed from occupation, and necessary excavation and exhumation work was started. In the last two years, 10 mass graves were discovered as a result of excavations in the liberated territories. As a result of the urgent measures taken, it has been possible to identify 15 missing persons, and the public was informed about it. Additional information about 10 more people will be provided today. I offer my deepest condolences to the families of our missing martyrs, whose fate has been determined, and wish them patience. Clarifying the fate of our citizens who disappeared 30 years ago is not only a serious public event, but also a clear example of the value the state of Azerbaijan attaches to its citizens. Let me assure the families of the missing persons that we will not spare efforts to clarify the fate of all those who went missing in the battles for the Motherland. In the post-conflict period, the issue of missing persons has been highlighted by us in all relevant meetings and negotiations with Armenia, especially in the Brussels and Washington platforms. Unfortunately, Armenia flagrantly violates its obligations under international humanitarian law and does not provide Azerbaijan with information about the missing persons and the exact location of mass graves. The reasons for this are obvious. Armenia believes that this will expose its further war crimes and atrocities. The international community should put pressure on Armenia to submit information on the fate of missing persons and the location of mass graves to the Azerbaijani side. This is a purely humanitarian issue and its politicization is unacceptable. Determining the fate of missing persons is also important in terms of reconciliation and normalization of Armenian-Azerbaijani relations. Cooperation in this area can be one of the effective trust-building measures. The issue of missing persons during armed conflicts is a global problem. Azerbaijan has taken serious steps to increase international attention to this issue. Our country put forward a resolution on missing persons in the UN General Assembly every two years. We believe that there is a need for establishing a special mechanism for missing persons within the UN system. I am sure that the conference will contribute to the attraction of attention of the international community to the painful issue of clarifying the fate of missing persons. I wish you all the best and the conference success. Ilham Aliyev President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Baku, 18 September 2023 BEIJING (Reuters) - The involvement of two Chinese state-owned financial firms in Zhongrong International Trust Co's operations and management may diffuse risk at the troubled shadow bank but does little to ease concerns about missed payments, analysts and investors said. The shadow bank, which traditionally had sizable real estate exposure, missed payments on dozens of so-called trust products since late July, roiling markets and raising fears that China's financial system may be at risk from the property sector crisis. Angry retail investors in Zhongrong's trust products last month held protests in Beijing and lodged complaint letters with regulators, pleading with the authorities to step in after the missed payments. Zhongrong said in a statement late on Friday it had signed an agreement with Citic Trust and CCB Trust - the shadow banking arms of two state-owned firms Citic Group and China Construction Bank - for so-called "entrusted management services". It was not immediately clear whether the support by the two firms was engineered by the Chinese authorities, but Beijing has previously bailed out troubled financial firms by roping in state entities to contain broader contagion risk. The agreement allows the two financial firms to "provide professional services for operations and management" of Zhongrong, it said, adding the move would not impact its debt ownership and legal relationship in trust products. The latest development was a standard procedure used by Beijing to diffuse risks at troubled shadow banks in recent years, said a senior executive at a Beijing-based research firm, who declined to be named due to sensitivity of the matter. "Eventually, investors will not be able to get back all of their money," said the person. "They'll likely incur hefty reductions in principal in the coming repayment plan. That would further dampen investors' confidence in trust products." Story continues The Chinese authorities have ramped up efforts since 2017 to reduce risks in the shadow banking sector amid concerns over financial stability due to their exposure to assets accumulated through opaque fundraising channel. Under the agreement, Citic Trust and CCB Trust will examine Zhongrong's current operations and help the firm come up with a repayment plan, said sources, who were briefed by the Zhongrong staff and declined to be named due to the sensitivity of the matter. Zhongrong, the National Financial Regulatory Administration (NFRA), the country's new financial regulator, and the People's Bank of China (PBOC) did not immediately respond to Reuters request for comment. Citic Trust and CCB Trust also did not respond to request for comment. Concerns about the outsized exposure of China's $3 trillion shadow banking sector, roughly the size of Britain's economy, to property developers and the wider economy, have grown over the past year as the sector lurched from one crisis to another. Trust firms operate outside many of the rules governing commercial banks and mainly channel the proceeds of wealth products sold by banks to real estate developers, other sectors, and even some retail investors. Analysts have said a wave of defaults on trust products could cause substantial ripple effects for China's broader economy as losses suffered by individual investors, lured by higher returns, would have an acute impact on consumption. Zhongrong managed assets worth 785.7 billion yuan ($107.69 billion) at the end of 2022, out of which 629.3 billion yuan were linked to trust products, according to its latest annual report. "It's good news and at least provides some clarity," said Zhang, who is an investor in a Zhongrong trust product and gave only his surname due to sensitivity of the matter. "However, it may take more time before detailed repayment plans materialize." Xu, who invested 3 million yuan in a Zhongrong trust product that has missed payment, said that the development showed the government was paying attention to investors' demand, but was still not hopeful about getting her invested money back. "It's a torturous progress. The only thing we can do is to wait," she said. "It's a long battle that could take one year or two years. I've put my expectations very low." (This story has been refiled to remove extraneous words from paragraph 1) (Reporting by Ziyi Tang and Ryan Woo; Additional reporting by Shanghai Newsroom; Editing by Sumeet Chatterjee and Shri Navaratnam) Weather Alert ...FREEZE WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO 10 AM EDT WEDNESDAY... * WHAT...Sub-freezing temperatures, as low as the low 20s in the mountains and near 29 in the piedmont. * WHERE...Portions of north central and northwest North Carolina and central, south central, southwest and west central Virginia. * WHEN...From midnight tonight to 10 AM EDT Wednesday. * IMPACTS...Frost and freeze conditions will sensitive plants, and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Temperatures are expected to be even colder Wednesday night. A hard freeze is expected areawide Wednesday night and early Thursday with temperatures well below freezing. This will put an end to growing season. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold. Plants that you wish to preserve through the winter months should be brought indoors. 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. && Reddit Email 76 Shares Post-script: Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman denied this report 4 days after it appeared and maintained that the negotiations with Israel are continuing, with the two sides getting closer. Either the Israeli source was misinformed or was leaking to put pressure on the Crown Prince; if the latter it appears to have succeeded. Ann Arbor (Informed Comment) The Arabic newspaper al-Ilaf is reporting that its reporters in Jerusalem were told by an official in the office of Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu that Saud Arabia had informed the Biden administration that it would halt talks regarding normalization of relations with Israel. One of the major diplomatic efforts of Biden and his Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been to build on the so-called Abraham Accords put together by Jared Kushner, former President Donald Trumps son-in-law and special envoy to the Middle East. The United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco have joined in establishing diplomatic and commercial relations with Israel, though Sudans generals were blackmailed into it and the civilian government pledges to revisit the matter when open elections are held. That Bidens team was attempting to bring Saudi Arabia aboard has been repeatedly reported, especially by the Wall Street Journal, though many seasoned observers of the Middle East are deeply skeptical that these talks are more than likely fruitless explorations. For one thing, Saudi King Salman, 87, is said to be dead set against making a separate peace with Israel that would injure the interests of the Palestinians. For another, Israel currently has the most extremist government in its history, and it is full of hard line Zionist expansionists intent on annexing the Palestinian West Bank. Were Netanyahu to accept a settlement freeze, the extremist Religious Zionism and Jewish Power blocs may well resign from the coalition and cause the government to fall. Al-Ilaf says that it is precisely because Bezalel Smotrich of Religious Zionism and Itamar Ben-Gvir of Jewish Power are dead set against concessions to the Palestinians and that Netanyahu has acquiesced in their demands that the Saudis are withdrawing from the talks. The newspaper says that the Saudis had cleverly included the Palestinians in the talks behind the scenes, ensuring that they had a voice in whatever happens. Article continues after bonus IC video Palestinian foreign minister says The Wall Street Journal stories about Netanyahu talking to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman were allegedly based on leaks by Israels minister of propaganda, Ron Dermer. The Israelis are said to have been convinced that they could do a deal with Riyadh that excluded the Palestinians. Why are the Israelis leaking news of these failed talks with the Saudis now? Is it a way for Netanyahu to pressure Smotrich and Ben-Gvir into making concessions for the sake of the potential bonanza of Saudi relations with Israel? If, so, the latter two dont appear to be the sort of rational individuals who would be open to an argument of that sort. Is it a way to pressure the Saudis to give up some of their demands or risk a complete collapse of this round of negotiations? Or did the Saudis use Netanyahus office to impress upon the Biden team that they are not happy with what they are being offered in order to join the Abraham Accords, including their longstanding demand for a US security guarantee of the sort Washington has with NATO allies, where an attack on one is an attack on all. Or maybe King Salman is still robust enough to slap down a process that he foresees will further screw over the West Bank Palestinians. Reddit Email 74 Shares A number of Palestinians arrested by Israeli forces from inside complex, local sources say ( Middle East Monitor ) Hundreds of Israeli settlers on Sunday forced their way into the flashpoint Al-Aqsa Mosque complex in occupied East Jerusalem to celebrate the Jewish New Year, reports Anadolu Agency. Israeli settlers observe the Rosh Hashanah (New Year) holiday from September 15 to September 17 this year. They will also mark the Sukkot holiday at the end of September and the Simhat Torah holiday on October 6. In a statement, the Jordan-run Islamic Waqf Department said Israeli forces had emptied the Al-Aqsa complex from Palestinian worshippers before allowing settlers in. According to the statement, Palestinians under 50 years old were prevented from entering the site. A number of Palestinians were arrested by Israeli forces from inside the complex, local sources said. There was no comment from the Israeli authorities on the report. MEMO: Israeli settlers storm Al-Aqsa complex in Jerusalem to mark Jewish New Year For Muslims, Al-Aqsa represents the worlds third-holiest site. Jews, for their part, call the area the Temple Mount, saying it was the site of two ancient Jewish temples. Israel occupied East Jerusalem, where Al-Aqsa complex is located, during the 1967 Arab-Israeli War. It annexed the entire city in 1980 in a move never recognised by the international community. Via Middle East Monitor Reddit Email 76 Shares Mahsa Amini: a year into the protest movement in Iran, this is whats changed By Afshin Shahi, Keele University | = Irans rulers continue to enforce tight public controls as the anniversary of the death of Mahsa Amini in the custody of the morality police approaches. Amini died after being arrested for allegedly breaching hijab rules. The news of her death prompted nationwide protests, jolting the foundations of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Ahead of the expected protests on the anniversary of her death on September 16, the regime continues to attempt to control social media and heighten surveillance. But the desire for change has not waned among many. How protests took hold The states reaction to the Women, Life, Freedom protests that broke out in reaction to Aminis death has been predictably draconian. Sources suggest hundreds have been killed, a staggering nearly 30,000 detained , and a spate of executions have been carried out. Just as troubling are the tales emerging from the shadows, stories of detainees facing unspeakable horrors, from torture to rape. Although the ruling elites ongoing struggle to enforce the compulsory hijab appears futile, the regime is showing no signs of conceding. The mandatory hijab, an issue for the past four decades, continues to be extremely contentious. Despite the dangers, numerous women, in acts of quiet defiance, choose to reject this enforced code daily. Their courage is met with intensified street patrols, hostile confrontations and looming new lawsthat threaten even stricter penalties. There seems to be an underlying fear within the governing circles that relinquishing control over something as ostensibly trivial as womens hair might set a precedent, leading to a more significant loss of control in other areas of governance and social life. Sources suggest that in an effort to sustain an aura of omnipotence, the regime is willing to do whatever it takes to maintain its grip on every aspect of life in Iran. The governing philosophy that would seem to lean more towards instilling fear rather than winning the hearts and minds of the people. In the face of mounting economic challenges and the fact that one third of the population is living in extreme poverty, the Iranian peoples resilience, honed by years of resistance and a relentless yearning for change, this perpetual battle resembles a drawn-out war of attrition between the state and the people. But there is a deep-seated protest movement in Iran, anchored in years of civil disobedience, symbolic actions, resistance art and immense sacrifice. Theres clearly still an appetite for change. However, the path to change is fraught with obstacles. The opposition, despite its passion, is fragmented, lacking leadership to pull together collective efforts. There are few well organised opposition parties outside the country. Article continues after bonus IC video Sky News: Iran: Protesters speak out ahead of anniversary of Mahsa Aminis death Over the past six months, there have been significant disputes about whether Iran should reinstate a constitutional monarchy or continue with a republican system. Instead of focusing on the common enemy, they disagree over what should replace the current rulers. This absence of a cohesive front makes garnering substantial international support challenging, especially when the regime leans on authoritarian allies such as Russia to enhance its surveillance and repressive capacities. It would appear the regime is equipped and willing to employ every available means to mute the populace, amplifying the risks and costs associated with dissent. Where did it all start? From its beginnings in 1979, the Islamic Republic of Irans unaccountable and overzealous plans to reshape and redefine Iranian society have been opposed by many. The decades that followed saw an increasing chasm between the people and the regressive clerical establishment. Misuse of power, corruption, catastrophic economic policies and the unabashed use of violence have methodically whittled away the revolutionary allure of the regime. Over the years, Iran has been no stranger to protests. But while the student protests of 1999 and the Green movement of 2009 were significant chapters in Iranian history, the post-2018 period witnessed a tectonic shift. Protests are no longer confined to urban centres theyre nationwide, audacious and challenge the very core of the Islamic Republics ideology. The Women, Life, Freedom movement, with its lasting impact and international spotlight, stands as a testament to this change. In recent months, cafes and restaurant have closed and businesses have been accused of flouting the states stringent policies. Universities arent spared either. An unsettling purge is under way, with university professors being replaced by regime loyalists, while campuses including Tehran University have become heavily surveilled zones. Add to this economic conditions that are so bad it is pushing people to suicide, and societal tensions reach a boiling point. Over the recent months leading up to the anniversary, momentum has been building. Several high-profile opposition figures have urged the public to seize this opportunity and once again take to the streets to defy the regime. This atmosphere of simmering unrest hasnt escaped the regimes notice. An Amnesty International report offers a glimpse into the states systematic harassment of families mourning their lost loved ones. Among those arrested was Mahsa Aminis uncle. Covering an extensive ten provinces, Amnestys research details human rights violations against numerous victims families, showing the extent of the governments oppressive reach prior to the anniversary of Mahsas death. One of the significant achievements of last years uprising was the shattering of pervasive fear among the people. Despite the sombre atmosphere, violent crackdowns and execution of young protesters, the Women, Life, Freedom movement has fostered a collective courage to defy the regime. In anticipation of the anniversary, both sides have been bracing themselves. People are gearing up for a potential resurgence of protests, while the state is preparing to suppress any sign of dissent. Many hope the political stalemate will not last indefinitely. While the move towards democracy may span years, the desperate desire for change must, surely, shift the prevailing order. Afshin Shahi, Associate Professor (Senior Lecturer) in Middle East Politics & International Relations at Keele University, Keele University This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. VANCOUVER, BC TheNewswire - September 18, 2023 Majuba Hill Copper Corp. (CSE:JUBA) (OTC:JUBAF) (FWB:4NP) (Majuba Hill Copper or the Company) is pleased to report that the geologic controls of mineralization identified during block model construction at the Companys flagship Copper Porphyry Project for the National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101 or Report) titled Technical Report for the Majuba Hill Copper Project, Pershing County, Nevada, USA are applicable to the 789 Zone Target (the 789 Zone) area. Recent compilation of the structural corridors combined with the intrusive rock geology appear to be very important for discovering additional copper at Majuba Hill. The 789 Zone was originally identified based on the Induced Polarization/Resistivity (IP) program and soil geochemistry surveys conducted in summer 2021. The northwest trending exploration corridor in Figure 1 outlines the alignment of the IP and the block model grade domains. Utilizing remote sensing to analyze the clays could help to refine the exploration target zone. Shortwave Infrared (SWIR) analysis of core and applying portable X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry (XRF) in the field will help to quickly advance the targets. Figure 1: 3d Modeling "Our focus for Majuba Hill is to convert the Target Exploration copper mineralization into the indicated and inferred category with our next drilling campaign. I am pleased that the work being done at Majuba continues to show us additional zones where drilling could add copper to the deposit. Using all the technology at our disposal will help make Majuba into the newest large copper deposit in the Western United States. commented David Greenway, CEO of Majuba Hill Copper Corp. The Report was authored by Jeffrey M. Bickel, C.P.G., Senior Geologist, RESPEC Company LLC, Reno, NV (RESPEC). The full Report dated June 20, 2023 is available on the Companys website and the SEDAR Issuer profile at www.sedarplus.ca/. Qualified Person The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed by E.L. "Buster" Hunsaker III, CPG 8137, a non-independent consulting geologist who is a "Qualified Person" as such term is defined under National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43- 101"). About Majuba Hill Copper Corp. Majuba Hill Copper Corp. is engaged in the identification, review and acquisition of latter stage copper and copper/silver/gold assets. This is in direct response to the growing worldwide demand and lack of supply for precious metals fueled by the Green New Deal in the US and most other developed nations with similar programs aimed at addressing climate change. Such programs are heavily reliant on silver, gold and especially copper to produce Electric Vehicles and other renewable power sources, as well as building infrastructure to provide clean and affordable electricity. The flagship project is the Majuba Hill copper, silver and gold District located 156 miles outside Reno, Nevada, USA. Management has been mandated to focus on safe, mining friendly jurisdictions where government regulations are supportive of mining operations. 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. On Behalf of the Board of Majuba Hill Copper Corp. David Greenway David C. Greenway President & CEO For further information, please contact: Joel Warawa VP of Corporate Communications E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. P: 1 (855) 475-0745 Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking" statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Although Majuba Hill Copper Corp. 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 forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of Majuba Hill Copper Corp. management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by law, Majuba Hill Copper Corp. undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 18, 2023 /CNW/ - Silver Valley Metals Corp. (TSXV: SILV) (OTCQB: SVMFF) ("Silver Valley" or the "Company"), a brownfield exploration Company with two potential high impact projects that comprise silver-zinc-lead located in north Idaho, USA and lithium - potassium (sulphate of potash) located in Zacatecas and San Luis Potosi, Mexico respectively, is pleased to provide a corporate update for both of its high priority projects: the MexiCan Lithium-Potassium (sulphate of potash) Project ("the Mexico-Canada Project" or "MexiCan Project") and the Ranger-Page silver-zinc-lead Project in the Silver Valley ("the Ranger-Page Project"). MexiCan Project As previously announced May 10, 2023, Silver Valley entered discussions with LitioMX, (the national lithium company of Mexico), with the goal of these discussions to ultimately formalize a partnership agreement to explore and produce lithium in Mexico. Silver Valley maintains its 100% ownership of the Potassium Sulphate ("sulphate of potash" or "SOP") component of the dual commodity MexiCan Lithium-Potassium Project. Discussions are active and advancing with LitioMX, and near-term plans are in place to come together to potentially finalize a partnership agreement. The Company will update shareholders' when and if there is material news to report. Highlights of the Project include: Significant grades of lithium, potassium sulphate, and boron are located on surface in unconsolidated sediments; the unique character of the project may contribute positively to future sustainable, and cost-effective extraction methods due to its unique sediment makeup. The brine potential has not been tested to date; the Company has reported highly elevated levels of potassium in water in perforated PVC columns emplaced in the salars where recharge of the water is measured and the mineral content of the water is measured potassium in water readings averaged 13,000 mg/L with measurements up to 27,000 mg/L these results are indicative that the potassium in the sediments is liberating itself which may be an indicator of potassium in the brine at depth or minimally, the separation of potassium from the sediments. Deep basin large aquifer brine potential defined by regional geophysics surveys, remains to be tested. The inferred resource has been tested from surface to an average 5 metres depth; the Company anticipates the sediment basin could range from 40 metres to greater than 100 metres deep, so the prospect of expanding the sediment resource at depth is substantial. 12.3 million tonnes of Potassium Sulphate and 243,000 tonnes of Lithium Carbonate Equivalent ("LCE") (1) defined thus far; contemplating today's spot prices, the in-situ value in the first five metres of the deposit(s) is already significant. On the ground community support the team in Mexico has continued exemplary work from inception through to the present day, notwithstanding the times the project has been delayed for circumstances out of the Company's control. The importance of the community supporting our project cannot be overstated. Excellent infrastructure in place, including abundance of skilled labour, an international airport, modern highways, railways, and sufficient power. Ranger-Page Project: Exploration at the Ranger-Page project has been active throughout the summer with a 24-hour per day project-wide trenching program targeting numerous prospective areas at the project which were defined from its inaugural 2022 exploration program. More than 3 kilometres were trenched, including new road building for drilling access and drill platform preparations. The trenching program was recently concluded for the year. Field mapping, geochemical assaying, further groundwork, and geological modelling are continuing to define and refine drill targets. Further news will be released as the Company receives and compiles the data. The Company anticipates several high priority drill-ready targets to be prioritized in the coming month. Recently, Silver Valley released first results from the summer trenching program at the Crown Point Mine area of the project which was a discovery of two significant vein structures on surface extending the Crown Point mine along strike to the west. See June 28, 2023, press release Highlights of the discovery are: Crown Point mineralization discovered at surface extending historic Crown Point mine 220 meters to the west. to the west. Discovery located 1,000 meters west from the Bunker Hill Mine. The Crown Point structural zone discovery defined up to 16 metres wide . . Within the structural zone an east-west trending mineralized vein structure up to 2.5 meters wide and steeply dipping south identified. vein structure up to and steeply dipping south identified. A second north trending mineralized vein structure identified within the structural zone measuring up to 2.87 meters wide and steeply dipping to the southeast. vein structure identified within the structural zone measuring up to and steeply dipping to the southeast. Discovery on surface is approximately 75 metres up dip from the depth of the historic Crown Point mine. from the depth of the historic Crown Point mine. The structural orientations are typical of the Coeur d'Alene mining district and are consistent with the geologic modeling, mapping, and ground IP results conducted by the Company. Link to Website: http://www.silvervalleymetals.com Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/silvervalmetals Twitter: https://twitter.com/silvervalmetals Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silvervalmetals Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/silvervalmetals YouTube: https://youtube.com/@silvervalmetals References: (1) To review the NI-43-101and inferred resource referred to in this press release please click: https://silvervalleymetals.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/kmax-ni43-101.pdf Report title: NI43-101 Technical Report On The Organimax Salar Sediment Deposits, Mexico; Author: SRK Consulting; Date of Submission: February, 2019 Qualified person Timothy Mosey, BSc, MSc, SME, is the qualified person for the company and qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Martin Pittuck, CEng, MIMMM, FGS, is responsible for the Mineral Resource statement and is an "independent qualified person" as such term is defined in NI 43-101. About MexiCan Lithium - Potassium (sulphate of potash) Project Silver Valley Metals Corp. owns a 100% interest in a lithium and potassium bearing salar complex comprising 4,056 hectares on three mineral concessions ("the Mexico-Canada Project" or "MexiCan Project") located on the Central Mexican Plateau in the states of Zacatecas, and San Luis Potosi, Mexico. The NI 43-101 inferred mineral resource contains 12.3Mt of Sulfate of Potash (SOP) and 243,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) and remains open in all directions for expansion. About Ranger-Page project The Ranger-Page Project ("The Project") is in the Silver Valley, northern Idaho, USA, 60 kilometres east of Coeur d'Alene and 1 kilometre from the I-90 freeway. In 2020 Idaho was ranked the first in the world in policy perception and 9th best mining jurisdiction (Fraser Institute Annual Mining Survey). The Project borders the famous Bunker Hill Mine to the east and for the first time consolidates the western extent of the prolific Silver Valley mining corridor by one operator in the past 100+ years. The Project comprises 6 historical mines on patented claims, without royalties. The largest of these, the Page Mine, was a top ten producer in the Silver Valley yielding over 1.1 billion pounds of zinc and lead and 14.6 million ounces of silver. The Page Mine has high grade silver-zinc-lead historic reserves and remains open at depth and along strike beyond what has been identified to date. Historical mining on the properties have shared underground infrastructure from the larger Page mine to the Blackhawk mine. The Company has underground mining data and surface geological data that supports high grade silver-zinc-lead mineralization present within the shallow, undeveloped mines. These mines remain open at depth, and laterally along strike. Exploration potential beyond the historic mines is considered significant as modern systematic exploration is being applied to the project for the first time. About Silver Valley Metals Silver Valley Metals Corp. is a Canadian exploration company comprised of a group of experienced exploration, mining, and financing specialists focused on the pursuit of mineral discovery and development. We are focused on the advancement of strategic and precious mineral properties including Lithium-Potash in Mexico and Silver-Zinc-Lead in northern Idaho, USA. On behalf of the Board of Directors of Silver Valley Metals, "Brandon Rook" Brandon Rook, President & CEO, Director THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; risks related to the outcome of legal proceedings; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. 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. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections. A drone attack temporarily shut down three Moscow-area airports Sunday as Ukraine pressed its effort to give Muscovites a grim taste of the war that has battered Ukraine since Russia's invasion began almost 19 months ago. Two of the airports halted air traffic for several hours before reporting all airport activities were returning to normal at 8:30 a.m. local time, Russian state media reported. Another airport halted air traffic for about an hour. Dozens of flights were canceled or delayed. Similar incidents a day earlier also briefly disrupted airport traffic, Tass reported. Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin said earlier Sunday that air defenses shot down drones in Moscow' Istria District, about 25 miles west of downtown Moscow. Another drone was shot down in the Ramenky District. No casualties or severe damage was reported from the incidents, Sobyanin said. Drone attacks have damaged buildings, caused minor injuries and altered flight schedules for several weeks. Ukraine has not specifically claimed responsibility for the attacks but has defended them as fair play, citing the beating Ukraine cities have taken from Russian rockets and mortars since the war began. Sen. Warren: Ukraine policy should not hinge on 'one billionaire' Elon Musk. Live updates Developments: The Ukraine Defense Contact Group will gather Tuesday in Germany for its monthly update meeting. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin leads the meeting, the primary global forum for garnering military support for Ukraine. The West must brace for the reality that the war is going to last a long time and that if Ukraine stops fighting "their country will no longer exist," NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said. Serhii Zaloznyi, center, holds a yoga session in a basement in Kramatorsk, Donetsk region, on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023. People gather three times a week for yoga to alleviate the stress caused by Russias constant shelling. Russian minister accuses US of directing war for Ukraine The U.S. is dictating Ukraine's military actions and pursuing America's own war against Russia by providing weapons to Kyiv, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Rossiya-1 television. Lavrov, speaking on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, was asked about U.S. officials agreeing to supply Ukraine with long-range shells with depleted uranium. Story continues "No matter what it says, it controls this war, it supplies weapons, munition, intelligence information, data from satellites, it is pursuing a war against us," Lavrov said. "Ukraine has been prepared, has long been prepared for inflicting strategic defeat to Russia using its hands and its bodies." North Korea munitions won't alter war, US general says North Korea will probably begin supplying Russia with artillery rounds and other weaponry soon, but the lifeline the military is throwing to Russian President Vladimir Putin is not likely to alter the course of the war, the top U.S. general says. Army Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said it remains unclear how soon the ammunition will be obtained by Moscow and how much North Korea can or is willing to provide. The assistance was among issues Putin discussed with Kim Jong Un during talks with the North Korean leader last week. Would it have a huge difference? Im skeptical of that, Milley said. I doubt that it would be decisive. Contributing: The Associated Press This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ukraine war updates: Russian airports close amid drone attacks VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Gold Terra Resource Corp. (TSX-V:YGT)(Frankfurt:TX0)(OTCQX:YGTFF) ("Gold Terra" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the deep drilling program to test for gold mineralization on the Con Mine Option Property has resumed. Hole GTCM23-055 was stopped at 1,900 metres on the Yellowknife wildfire evacuation order. The hole is targeted to intersect the down plunge extension of the prolific Campbell Shear zone at depth below the Con Mine deposit (1938-2003), where 5.1 million ounces of gold was produced at an average grade of 16 g/t. The Con Mine Option (CMO) Property is under option from subsidiaries of Newmont Corporation and is acquirable by the Company upon fulfillment of certain conditions set out in the CMO Property agreement, as reported in the Company's news release dated November 22, 2021. Chairman and CEO, Gerald Panneton, commented, "We are very pleased for the safe return of everyone in Yellowknife, as well as our geological team and drilling contractor. It has been a very difficult time for all residents of Yellowknife. We thank everyone that stayed behind to safeguard Yellowknife. As the deep drill hole has resumed, we expect the Campbell Shear to be intersected in the next 2 to 3 weeks with assays to follow." Watch the Latest Interview BTV is featuring Gold Terra on the BNN Bloomberg Channel. Watch the latest interview with Chairman and CEO, Gerald Panneton at Gold Terra Resource Corp. on the strategy to discover gold on the Company's vast landing holdings covering approximately 900 square kilometers in the Yellowknife gold belt. The focus of the 2023 drilling program is to expand the September 2022 initial Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE") (see September 7, 2022, press release) of 109,000 Indicated ounces of contained gold and 432,000 Inferred ounces of contained gold between surface and to a depth of 400 metres below surface along a 2-kilometre corridor of the Campbell Shear. Refer to the October 21, 2022 technical report, titled "Initial Mineral Resource Estimate for the CMO Property, Yellowknife City Gold Project, Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada" with an effective date of September 2, 2022, by Qualified Person, Allan Armitage, Ph. D., P. Geo., SGS Geological Services, which can be found on the Company's website at https://www.goldterracorp.com and on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Qualified Persons Joe Campbell, P. Geo., Senior Technical Advisorfor Gold Terra is a Qualified Person within the meaning of NI 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release. About Gold Terra The Yellowknife Project (YP) encompasses 918 sq. km of contiguous land immediately north, south and east of the City of Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories. Through a series of acquisitions, Gold Terra controls one of the six major high-grade gold camps in Canada. Being within 10 kilometres of the City of Yellowknife, the YP is close to vital infrastructure, including all-season roads, air transportation, service providers, hydro-electric power, and skilled tradespeople. Gold Terra is currently focusing its drilling on the prolific Campbell Shear, where 14 Moz of gold has been produced, and most recently on the Con Mine Option (CMO) property claims immediately south of the past producing Con Mine which produced 6.1 Moz between the Con, Rycon, and Campbell shear structures (1938-2003). The YP and CMO properties lie on the prolific Yellowknife greenstone belt, covering nearly 70 kilometres of strike length along the main mineralized shear system that hosts the former-producing high-grade Con and Giant gold mines. The Company's exploration programs have successfully identified significant zones of gold mineralization and multiple targets that remain to be tested which reinforces the Company's objective of re-establishing Yellowknife as one of the premier gold mining districts in Canada. Visit our website at www.goldterracorp.com. For more information, please contact: Gerald Panneton, Chairman & CEO This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Mara Strazdins, Investor Relations Phone: 1-778-897-1590 | 604-689-1749 ext 102 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Information Concerning Estimates of Mineral Resources Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Therefore, investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of an Inferred Mineral Resource could ever be mined economically. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of "Measured Mineral Resources," "Indicated Mineral Resources," or "Inferred Mineral Resources" will ever be upgraded to a higher category. The Mineral Resource estimates contained herein may be subject to legal, political, environmental or other risks that could materially affect the potential development of such mineral resources. Refer to the Technical Report, once filed, for more information with respect to the key assumptions, parameters, methods and risks of determination associated with the foregoing. Cautionary Note to United States Investors The Company prepares its disclosure in accordance with the requirements of securities laws in effect in Canada, which differ from the requirements of U.S. securities laws. Terms relating to Mineral Resources in this news release are defined in accordance with NI 43-101 under the guidelines set out in CIM Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, adopted by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum Council on May 19, 2014, as amended ("CIM Standards"). The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") has adopted amendments effective February 25, 2019 (the "SEC Modernization Rules") to its disclosure rules to modernize the mineral property disclosure requirements for issuers whose securities are registered with the SEC under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934. As a result of the adoption of the SEC Modernization Rules, the SEC will now recognize estimates of "Measured Mineral Resources", "Indicated Mineral Resources" and "Inferred Mineral Resources", which are defined in substantially similar terms to the corresponding CIM Standards. In addition, the SEC has amended its definitions of "Proven Mineral Reserves" and "Probable Mineral Reserves" to be substantially similar to the corresponding CIM Standards. U.S. investors are cautioned that while the foregoing terms are "substantially similar" to corresponding definitions under the CIM Standards, there are differences in the definitions under the SEC Modernization Rules and the CIM Standards. Accordingly, there is no assurance any Mineral Resources that the Company may report as "Measured Mineral Resources", "Indicated Mineral Resources" and "Inferred Mineral Resources" under NI 43-101 would be the same had the Company prepared the Mineral Resource estimates under the standards adopted under the SEC Modernization Rules. In accordance with Canadian securities laws, estimates of "Inferred Mineral Resources" cannot form the basis of feasibility or other economic studies, except in limited circumstances where permitted under NI 43-101. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information Certain statements made and information contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation ("forward-looking information"). Generally, this forward-looking information can, but not always, be identified by use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events, conditions or results "will", "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotations thereof. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking information regarding the current drilling on the Campbell Shear, potentially adding ounces to the Company's current YCG mineral resource, and the Company's objective of re-establishing Yellowknife as one of the premier gold mining districts in Canada. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as the Company's actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in this forward-looking information as a result of the factors discussed in the "Risk Factors" section in the Company's most recent MD&A and annual information form available under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that would cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on information available to the Company as of the date of this news release. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. All of the forward-looking information contained in this news release is qualified by these cautionary statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information due to the inherent uncertainty thereof. Except as required under applicable securities legislation and regulations applicable to the Company, the Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information. For the first time since Francisco Franco's death in 1975, a man who says he was detained and tortured by the dictator's regime testified before a Spanish court on Friday. About 30 supporters applauded and chanted "reparation, truth, justice" as Julio Pacheco Yepes left a Madrid court after testifying for over about an hour. "This is the start of the breaking of the wall of silence and impunity which we have regarding Francoism," the 67-year-old told reporters after the hearing. "It means there could be more (lawsuits) and we can finally obtain justice, I am hopeful. The first step has been taken." Until now, Spanish courts have rejected lawsuits filed by Franco-era victims, arguing that they fell under an amnesty law passed in 1977 during the transition to democracy, or that the time limit for filing criminal charges had passed. Pacheco Yepes was 19 when he was arrested in Madrid in August 1975 for belonging to a left-wing underground movement that opposed the regime. His detention happened just three months before the death of Franco, who had ruled Spain with an iron fist since the end of the country's 1936-39 civil war. The former printer said he was tortured for several days at police headquarters in the city's Puerta del Sol Square before being jailed for "terrorism". Nearly five decades later he filed a lawsuit against his four alleged torturers, among them former police commissioner Jose Manuel Villarejo, who recently gained notoriety for spying on political and business personalities. - 'Milestone' - The case was filed in February and judge Ana Maria Iguacel decided in May to admit it on grounds it contained possible evidence of "crimes against humanity and torture". Iguacel also indicated she intends to summon the alleged torturers for questioning and has requested documents from the police and the National Archives. Once her investigation is finished, the judge will decide whether to dismiss the case or send it to trial. "It is an important milestone," Pacheco Yepes told AFP on Wednesday at his home in Vallecas, a working-class district of southeastern Madrid, The United Nations has urged Spain to revoke the amnesty law, which was passed two years after Franco's death and prevents the prosecution not only of offences committed by political opponents of the regime, but also those carried out by "civil servants and public order agents" such as police. Many Franco-era torturers have died without ever standing trial, such as policeman Juan Antonio Gonzalez Pacheco, who died in 2020. His nickname was "Billy el Nino" or "Billy the Kid" for his habit of spinning a gun around his finger as he beat his victims. - 'Very receptive' - One of the people who filed a lawsuit against him was 66-year-old Rosa Maria Garcia Alcon, Pacheco Yepes's wife, but her lawsuit was rejected. She was arrested at the same time as Pacheco Yepes in August 1975. Garcia Alcon also testified on Friday, but as a witness. She says one of the ways the police tortured Pacheco Yepes was to force him to watch them hurting her. "I told everything that is in the lawsuit, the arrest, the torture, everything that happened at the time. The judge was very receptive," Pacheco Yepes said after the hearing. Faced with legal obstacles in Spain, victims' groups turned to Argentina, where magistrate Maria Servini in 2010 invoked the principle of "universal justice" to open an investigation into genocide and crimes against humanity during Spain's civil war and the ensuing dictatorship. As part of the ongoing inquiry, Servini in 2014 issued 20 international arrest warrants for former Franco regime officials, among them ministers, judges and police officers, but Madrid refused to cooperate. Clothing that "hurts the feelings" of the nation could soon be outlawed in China, according to recent draft revisions to legislation, with their vagueness sparking concern over the broad scope for interpretation and enforcement. The proposed law states that both speech and clothing deemed "harmful to the spirit of the Chinese people" or that "hurts the feelings" of the nation will result in fines or even jail time. But it stops short of defining specifically which types of clothing stand to be banned by the new rules. "Determining who has the authority to decide and how to make judgements may require more time, and we need the establishment of mature judgement criteria before advancing such proposals," a 23-year-old Beijinger surnamed He told AFP. She worried that the offences the law targets are "not as clear as crimes like robbery, where right and wrong are definitive". Several legal scholars in China objected on similar grounds to the revisions, which were released earlier this month for public consultation. The consultation period ends on September 30. The proposals would lead to "too vague a standard of punishment, which will easily lead to an arbitrary expansion of the scope of administrative punishment", wrote Tsinghua University's Lao Dongyan on the social media platform Weibo. Police in China already routinely use the broad charge of "picking quarrels and provoking trouble" to punish people with clothing or banners bearing messages deemed politically sensitive. But the changes could grant authorities further power to clamp down on any clothing perceived as harmful to public morality. Earlier this month, social media videos showed a man in the southern city of Shenzhen being questioned by police for livestreaming himself wearing a skirt, triggering a discussion about individual freedom of expression. Many online commentors agreed with local law enforcement's decision to intervene, with one saying the man's behaviour was "offensive to common morals". - 'Historical reasons' - Like most people AFP spoke to on the streets of Beijing, He interpreted the revisions mainly as a reaction to incidents involving people wearing Japanese clothing in historically significant places or on memorial days. In 2021, the state-backed tabloid Global Times said a woman was "severely criticised and educated" after she wore a kimono in public on December 13, the national remembrance day for victims of Japanese war crimes in 1937. And last year, a woman said she was detained during a photoshoot while wearing a kimono in the eastern city of Suzhou by police. "Dressing is everyone's own choice and freedom, but there are also special (circumstances)," He said. "If someone makes an insulting move in front of a certain statue on a specific day and wears a special costume, such behaviour is 100 percent on purpose and should be punished." Gu, a 35-year-old man, told AFP that he was open to holding people legally accountable for offensive clothing on "special occasions". "There are indeed some historical reasons, and I think the emotions of the local people should be considered," said Gu. "But in most cases, for example, if someone just goes to a shopping street (wearing a kimono), I think there is no need to pursue any action." - 'Psychological harm' - Others, such as 25-year-old male programmer Yang Shuo, were less lenient. "If a person wears a kimono to... the Memorial Hall for the Victims of the Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders, I believe it would cause significant psychological harm to the Chinese people," said Yang. "I think they should be punished." Jeremy Daum, senior research fellow at Yale's Paul Tsai China Center, told AFP he thought the revisions themselves would be amended to focus the law more on such incidents. "It's fairly certain that the language will be heavily modified -- probably made more specific to address heroes, martyrs, party history -- following the large number of public comments," he said. In the garrison cemetery on Columbiadamm in Berlin's Neukolln district, there is a four-foot-tall stone which commemorates seven German soldiers who volunteered for the campaign in South West Africa between January 1904 and March 1907 and died a heros death. In other words: this monument does not commemorate victims, but perpetrators of genocide. The stone, popularly known as the Herero Stone, dates from 1907 and refers to a short but important period within the German colonial rule of what is now Namibia (1884-1915). German colonial policy was characterized by land and cattle theft, racism, mistreatment and exploitation. Resistance of indigenous Herero and Nama was ruthlessly crushed. In 1904, a surprise attack by Herero led to the October 2 "extermination order" from German Lieutenant General Lothar von Trotha. German soldiers drove Herero into the desert where many died of thirst, hunger and exhaustion. From 1905, Herero and their Nama allies were imprisoned in concentration camps where they worked as slave laborers on railways or became victims of medical experiments. This genocide ultimately killed 50,000-65,000 of the 80,000-100,000 Herero and 10,000 of the 20,000 Nama. The "Herero stone" at Columbiadamm cemetery honours the German soldiers who took part in the genocide of the Herero and Nama peoples in Namibia. Anne van Mourik, July 2023. Conflicting views on the German colonial past In light of this history, it is not surprising that the monument is not widely loved. Anyone who currently takes a walk in the cemetery will see, for example, that the stone has been daubed with the text: No racist commemoration for Nazis and genocides. The stained stone clearly shows the conflicting views on the German colonial past. On the one hand there is criticism expressed by the graffiti, namely that it is racist myopia to commemorate perpetrators of a colonial genocide. On the other hand, there is still a colonial approach to national history, which is mainly expressed here in silence and indifference. In 2023, there is not even a sign at the monument that explains German colonial rule or refers to the fact that the campaign in South-West Africa is a colonial euphemism for genocide. Moreover, the stone only focuses on Germany's own suffering and there is no other monument in the city that commemorates the genocide. These omissions make the monument seem like an innocent memorial to seven lives. The loss of the colony in 1915 during World War I clearly does not mean a loss of a colonial bias. The five-month-old graffiti on the stone, on the other hand, could be seen as a cry from society for postcolonial modernization. Such criticism may not be surprising today, but as is often the case with postcolonial criticism, it has a long history. In this case, there is a long chain of critical reactions to the monument. Beating around the bush Ever since 1973, when the stone was moved from a barracks site to the cemetery, there were voices that the monument was offensive and inappropriate. But it was not until 2004 that local politicians felt compelled to do something with this criticism. An important reason for their sudden interest was a temporarymemorial plaque placed by various interest groups, in honor of the 100th anniversary of the genocide. This provisional plaque stated: In memory of the victims of the German genocide in Namibia 1904-1908. Although the plaque disappeared after only a few days, the local administration of Neukolln was now prepared more than ever to face the colonial genocide: in the same year the district assembly passed a motion submitted by the Social Democratic Party to erect a permanent memorial plaque for the victims of the genocide. But anyone who thinks that this changed vision regarding the German colonial past was going to be processed quickly, is wrong. It was only after five years of deliberation that a permanent plaque was placed at the monument. On a black placard placed at the foot of the stone in 2009 we can read in white-engraved letters: In memory of the victims of the German colonial rule in Namibia 1884-1915 and in particular of the colonial war of 1904-1907. The term genocide, the mention of the Herero and Nama and that of casualty numbers remain absent. As such, the text disguises more than it reveals. In 2009, this placard was placed next to the monument. It reads: "In memory of the victims of the German colonial rule in Namibia 1884-1915 and in particular of the colonial war of 1904-1907". Anne van Mourik, July 2023. The reason that this text beats around the bush has probably been money. If you look closely at the black placard, you will see that something has been written there and has been removed. The same activists who defaced the stone last April wrote that Berlin's District Assembly and Neukolln District Office did not want to write genocide here because that could justify reparations. This is a fair comment. In 2009, the Federal government had not yet recognized the genocide. What happened a century ago was not supposed to be a genocide but a colonial war to evade reparations. And thats why up to now the monument continues to tell a rather one-sided, colonial and outdated official story, and from time-to-time unofficial postcolonial updates become visible in the form of red paint and postcolonial slogans. The times they are a-changin The question now is how the defaced monument fits in with todays German approach to the past. Historians recognize that for a long time little attention was paid to the colonial past in Germany. Many people only have a vague idea that Germany was a colonial power, says historian Jurgen Zimmerer. Only with publications by him (for example Von Windhuk nach Auschwitz?, 2011), or by Sebastian Conrad (Globalisierung und Nation im Deutschen Kaiserreich, 2006) did the colonial past receive more attention. According to historians such as Dirk Moses, we should see this long period of relative silence surrounding German colonial history as an unpleasant consequence of the great focus on the Holocaust and its uniqueness. The Shoah occupies such a dominant position in German remembrance culture that it stands in the way of commemoration of colonial crimes. But something is definitely changing. For example, this year, a feature film Measures of Men was released. The film, directed by Lars Kraume, highlights Germanys brutal colonial past in what was then German South West Africa. Moreover, since the turn of the millennium, the subject has been increasingly included in German textbooks. However, textbook inclusion of the colonial genocide does not necessarily mean a conscientious dealing with this past. For example, the 2003 textbook Horizonte II: Geschichte fur die Oberstufe asked students to contrast the positive and negative aspects of imperialism. Instead of reflecting on the German colonial project, the textbook still attempted to defuse criticism of the colonial project. In more modern textbooks, we see no such mitigation of colonialism. But here too, the intrinsically racist and oppressive nature of the entire colonial occupation is often (partly) ignored or distorted. The focus is mainly on German colonial experiences and perspectives, overlooking those of Herero and Nama. Colonialism thus becomes primarily a matter of suppressing a rebellion by Herero, resulting in an unfortunate genocide. Genocide recognition in 2021 The temporary exhibition Schaumagazin Afrika in the prestigious Humboldt Forum in Berlin is doing a better job. The exhibition shows photos from the colonial period, interviews and reflections on German textbooks. By focusing on experiences of Namibians and people with a German-Namibian identity, the exhibition manages to break through the rigid national framework. It shows how the original population was continuously framed as inferior and how this view can still have an effect today. As such, the exhibition accounts for the root of current worldviews of different groups of people in German society. In 2020, activists wrote on the commemorative stone: "Black lives" and "Fight against imperialism". Roel Frakking, June 2020 The district administration of Neukolln also seems to be aware of the need for a different representation and commemoration of colonialism and the genocide. Thirteen years after the black placard was placed at the cemetery, the local government announced in 2022 that it strives for a redesign of the monument. Is the time finally ripe for a monument that does justice to this history? The recognition of the genocide by Angela Merkel's government in May 2021 is positive. Talking about reparations The press release from the Neukolln museum, which is organizing an exhibition on the memory of the genocide in November 2023, also gives hope. The focus on memory suggests that the exhibition will reflect on the different ways in which the genocide has been portrayed and politicized over time. But let's not celebrate too soon. It still appears to be easy to ignore the experiences and voices of formerly colonized groups. The exclusion of Herero and Nama representatives from talks about reparations for German colonial crimes makes that painfully clear. Without involving these groups, the Federal government and the Namibian government agreed in 2021 that Germany would pay 1.1 billion euros to Namibian development projects. Descendants of the genocide victims prefer that the reparations go directly to them. Not only do they fear embezzlement of the money, they also want to be able to tackle the poverty and marginalization as a result of the genocide. They therefore demand that Namibia renegotiate the reparations and ask for a place at the negotiating table. The fact that the voices of Herero and Nama are not central to these conversations shows how colonial ideas still find their way into the present. Whether the difficulties surrounding the reparations will also influence the redesign of the Neukolln monument remains to be seen. Despite the increased willingness to adopt a postcolonial approach, the colonial paradigm in which we view the past has proved to be quite dominant. This Fall we will find out exactly how dominant this one-sided and often concealing narrative still is. Let's hope that a changing German society has managed to create space for the postcolonial voices that have been sounding for so long. Because only when the Neukolln memorial recognizes the victims of the Herero and Nama genocide can we say that there is no more racist memorial for Nazis and genocides. Recommended reading Namibians victim of genocide press for German apology The latest episode of "My Lovely Liar" answered the big question that spanned throughout the entire series, giving relief to the viewers around the world. However, online communities amassed hilarious reactions from the fans after a shocking plot twist was revealed in the series: Yoon Ji On's character loves Hwang Minhyun's Kim Do Ha. With the rather surprising portrayal of the LGBTQ community, here are some of the most hilarious reactions among the fans of "My Lovely Liar." 1. #FreeDoHa Movement After the revelation, fans took to social media their surprise. One fan hilariously called out the characters in the show for being "too obsessed" with Hwang Minhyun's Kim Do Ha. The fan wrote that he is collecting people obsessed with him and attached the photos of Song Ji Hyun's Choi Uhm Ji, Lee Si Woo's Shaon and Yoon Ji On's Jo Deuk Chan. She also included the hashtag "#FreeDoHa," starting a movement that sent fans into laughter. 2. The Lost Potential of Being Unhinged While the plot twist alone surprised the viewers, some fans expressed their regrets due to the drama's lost potential of being the South Korean version of "Joker." A fan was impressed with the "evil gay" plot twist. However, they wanted more. In an online post, they asked, "Why didn't Jo Deuk Chan seduce Kim Do Ha?" IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: 'My Lovely Liar' Episode 14: Hwang Minhyun Discovers Yoon Ji On's True Colors They reasoned that the former had the perfect chance to make Kim Do Ha fall for him due to his "vulnerable and aloof" personality," which lost the potential to make "My Lovely Liar" more "unhinged and juicy." the evil gay plot twist lmfaooo btw why didn't deukchan try to seduce doha man had the perfect chance to make doha fall for him all these years like doha was alone & vulnerable... they had the potential to make this so much more unhinged & juicy#MyLovelyLiarEp14 #MyLovelyLiar pic.twitter.com/aJRjLYHfVB (@seizingdream) September 12, 2023 Talk about an evil gay's master plan of manipulation! 3. Mok Sol Hee's New Wallet In "My Lovely Liar" episode 14, Kim So Hyun's Mok Sol Hee became one of the tools that helped Kim Do Ha find the truth about Choi Uhm Ji's killer. However, the former learned that she had lapses in her judgment, and her lie-detecting abilities had failed her one too many times. One viewer expressed their sorrow for Mok Sol Hee. They said that they don't know whether to be happy or sad as the change was a boon and bane for her. did solhee lost her ability to hear lie omg idk if i should be happy or not cause yeay finally she can live a normal life but also thats her source of income oh nevermind doha is rich #MyLovelyLiarEp14 #MyLovelyLiar #HWANGMINHYUN #KimSoHyunpic.twitter.com/HV2MPbVLgA z optimus kitty (@zbalq) September 12, 2023 To recall, detecting lies had been her source of income before but it didn't give her a normal life. The viewer quickly retracted her statement, saying that Kim Do Ha, her love, is rich anyway. YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE THIS: 3 Most Unforgettable Moments In 'My Lovely Liar' KDramaStars owns this article. Written by Elijah Mully. Kang Hoon continues to establish his name in the industry. His latest series, "A Time Called You," is receiving recognition, and so is he. Kang Hoon is making waves again after he made a comeback through Netflix's "A Time Called You," alongside Jeon Yeo Bin and Ahn Hyo Seop. In this new drama, he delivered a brilliant performance, and gained praises from viewers. He played the role of Jung In Gyu, a smart and shy high school student and best friend of Nam Si Heon. He secretly has a crush on his classmate, Kwon Min Ju. For some who have only known Kang Hoon for a while, the actor has already challenged himself in acting in various drama genres and even worked with multi-talented actors and actresses. If you finished watching "A Time Called You" and want to see more of his works, then here are some of Kang Hoon's dramas that you should watch next! 'The Secret Romantic Guesthouse' IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Did You Know? Kang Hoon Lost 9kg for His Role in 'A Time Called You Before meeting the viewers in "A Time Called You," Kang Hoon welcomed 2023 with "The Secret Romantic Guesthouse." Here, he took on the role of Kim Si Yeol, a playful scholar who stays at Inn Ihwawon. The drama tells about an incident that takes place when the owners of a guesthouse and the boarders with secrets gather to find Lee Seol, who disappeared 13 years ago. Kang Hoon worked with Ryeo Un, Jung Gun Goo, and Shin Ye Eun. 'Little Women' Kang Hoon joined the star-studded cast of "Little Women." This Korean drama adaptation follows the story of three sisters who get entangled in a case that leads them to fight against the richest and most influential clan in South Korea. The actor played the character of Ha Jong Ho, and he worked with Kim Go Eun, Wi Ha Joon, Nam Ji Hyun, and Park Ji Hu. 'The Red Sleeve' YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Here's Why Kang Hoon Cried After Knowing 'The Red Sleeve Cuff' Director's Comment About His Acting "The Red Sleeve," which is considered one of the best dramas of 2021, was headlined by Lee Junho and Lee Se Young. In this K-drama, Kang Hoon joined the stellar cast as a supporting actor. With his performance, he even won his first Best New Actor award. "The Red Sleeve" tells the story of a royal court romance between the Kind of Joseon, who places his duty to his country above love, and a court lady who wants to protect the life she has chosen. 'You Are My Spring' Despite his short appearance, Kang Hoon showed a solid acting in this series. It follows the story of people living in a building where a murder previously happened. Even though they are all grown adults, they still go about their lives with their seven-year-old selves in their hearts. For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars. KDramaStars owns this article. Shai Collins wrote this. Jenn Clamen, national coordinator for the Canadian Alliance for Sex Work Law Reform, speaks during a rally outside the Ontario Superior Court after the launch of their constitutional challenge to Canada's sex work laws, on Monday, October 3, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Tijana Martin The head of Metro Media says the Quebec newspaper publisher will enter bankruptcy protection this week, ending for good its coverage of local government in parts of the province's two largest cities. A person holds a phone displaying the home page of Metro Media, which reads in French that the company is suspending activities, in Toronto, Friday, Aug. 11, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Giordano Ciampini 1 Shares Share Since the pandemic, the shortage of behavioral health professionals has become more dire as the need for more comprehensive mental health care has increased. As of March 2023, 160 million Americans lived in areas with mental health professional shortages. 55% of counties in the U.S. have no psychiatrists, and 77% report a severe shortage. In some states, such as Maine, there was a 50% drop in the number of psychiatrists from 2015 to 2020, leading to wait times of up to 18 months to access psychiatric care. Moreover, 70% of psychiatrists are 50 years old or older. By 2025, demand for psychiatrists will outstrip supply by 25%. The toll that psychiatric illness takes is substantial. Depression is the leading cause of disability in the world. Medical costs for treating patients with chronic medical disorders and co-occurring psychiatric disorders such as depression are two to four times higher than in those without psychiatric disorders. Nearly half the population in the U.S. report recent symptoms of anxiety and depression. The annual number of deaths by suicide is 48,000, and overdose deaths exceed 100,000. Among the 20% of the U.S. population that are the highest utilizers of medical care accounting for 80% of all health care costs 60% to 80% have an underlying psychiatric disorder that drives increased utilization. Despite the high prevalence of psychiatric illness and costs associated with untreated psychiatric illness, 60% of those with a psychiatric disorder and 90% of those with substance use do not receive any psychiatric treatment. Its not only the stigma of receiving treatment or a lack of resources available but an unreliable intake system to identify and support those who need the most help. We live in an era where physical health providers are overwhelmed with requests from patients, lacking many of the tools and training needed to address the surge. And simply collecting written questionnaires on a patients mental health is not enough. Integrated behavioral health care models, where behavioral and physical health providers work together to treat patients, can address this growing issue. But with limited resources and high demand, delivering effective, integrated behavioral health care at such a large scale is challenging. In response to this growing need, measurement-based, population-focused models of care combined with the thoughtful utilization of digital solutions has emerged as an effective approach that can help deliver integrated care at scale despite limited resources. What is measurement-based, population-focused care? Measurement-based and population-focused care, a critical part of integrated care models like collaborative care, is an evidence-based health care approach where treatment decisions are guided by systematic measurement of patient-reported symptoms, functioning, and overall well-being. Typically, measurement-based care (MBC) includes standardized questionnaires (to assess symptom severity, progress, etc.), data collection, and provider analysis of the data to make informed treatment decisions and continuously adjust a treatment plan based on the patients evolving needs. This health care approach allows providers to offer more effective and personalized care based on objective information collection and assessment. MBC, traditionally used to collect and assess physical health metrics (blood sugar, weight, etc.), is essential for treating patients holistically taking into account both their physical and behavioral health. For patients needing behavioral health support, MBC can help objectively track and assess a patients symptoms, which can often be subjective and highly variable over long periods. With MBC, health care providers can monitor a patients mental health status whether its stable, improving, or declining and address it accordingly. Aside from the efficiency that MBC can provide, this type of clinical approach can also help bridge other, more interpersonal gaps in the health care system. If executed well, ongoing patient monitoring can inform highly personalized treatment plans and improve patient and provider communication, allowing patients a structured channel for sharing their experiences with mental health without stigma or shame. Likewise, MBC can be used to help bolster patient engagement. The self-reported methods of MBC can encourage patients to take a more active role in their treatment plan and diagnosis, which can be empowering. Integrated care models are focused on treating large populations while relying on fewer resources. Psychiatrists that participate in these integrated care models will not consult with patients directly. Instead, they provide oversight of large caseloads of patients managed by behavioral health clinicians working in the practices alongside the non-psychiatric attending physicians (e.g., primary care physicians). MBC and population-focused integrated care models can bring an actionable, data-driven approach to supporting behavioral health while substantially increasing access to behavioral care holistically interwoven with patients overarching medical needs. However, its incredibly challenging to execute this strategy successfully without the right technology. How can technology advance measurement-based care? One of the biggest hurdles to using measurement-based care is having the right technology to deploy and scale it. Without technology, health care providers can struggle with administering routine assessments, or receiving unbiased patient information (due to the lessened but still present stigma around mental health) among other administrative burdens. With technology, health care providers can work more efficiently and more cost-effectively by sending remote questionnaires clinical assessments like PHQ-9 and GAD-7 via desktop or mobile, so providers and patients arent limited to in-person assessments, which can take up valuable appointment time. Providers can set up custom notifications that alert health care providers, directly in the EHR, when a patients data indicates a significant change or deterioration to help ensure timely intervention if necessary. Technology helps health providers make the most out of MBC helping to risk-stratify populations, deliver timely interventions, and even allow health care providers to be proactive in their care, saving costs and preventing behavioral health crises. Measurement-based care with the help of technology embodies a commitment to evidence-based, patient-centered care, and it holds the potential to revolutionize how we understand, manage, and treat behavioral health conditions. The deployment of MBC using robust, secure technology has the power to create a brighter, healthier future for everyone. Tom Zaubler is a psychiatrist and physician executive. Buganda Road Court Grade One Magistrate, Siena Owomugigisha has further remanded four Kyambogo University students who were arrested last week at Parliamentary Avenue in Kampala protesting the decision by some banks to finance the East African Crude Oil Pipe Line Project (EACOP). The controversial oil pipeline is intended to transport crude oil from Ugandas oil fields in Bunyoro region to Tanga Port in Tanzania. Once completed, the pipeline will be the longest-heated crude oil pipeline in the world. The students have been identified as Benjamin Akiso, Wasswa Alex, Abduh Twaib Magambo, and Kajubi Maktum all students of Kyambongo University. They were first produced before court on Friday last week and were remanded to Luzira prison on charges of common nuisance. Prosecution states that the group and others still at large on September 15, 2023, at Parliamentary Avenue, did an unauthorized act by carrying placards reading; Stop EACOP, Standard, Stanbic Bank do not finance EACOP, stop violation of human rights, on the streets by causing inconvenience to the public in the exercise of common rights. They have been ordered to report back to court on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, for hearing of the case. This is after the prosecution led by Lydia Nakato informed court that investigations into the matter are complete and that they are already to start prosecuting all the accused persons. The National Economic Empowerment Dialogue (NEED) has opposed a bill seeking to ban private prosecution in Uganda. Last month, parliament granted Busiku County MP, Paul Akamba, leave to introduce the bill, which seeks to abolish the institution of criminal proceedings by private persons. Once signed into law, the director of public prosecution who in any case has the right, upon an application to court to take over any private prosecution, would together with the Inspector General of Government enjoy exclusive rights to criminal prosecution. However, speaking to the media at the partys headquarters in Rubaga, NEED spokesperson, Mr. Moses Matovu said prohibiting private prosecution is promoting injustices in the country. He explained that prosecution of big government officials will be difficult as many have influence in most offices with the prevailing alleged corruption rates in Uganda. Matovu now asks the Uganda Law Society to oppose the bill, saying the DPP will not be in position to prosecute top government officials. He also urged Ugandans to task their area MPs against the bill. Police have urged Ugandans and visitors in the country to respect the law by rejecting what they call unlawful demonstrations associated with the National Unity Platform (NUP) party. Today marks the 6th day, into the suspension of NUP mobilisation activities by police, a move the NUP party leader Robert Kyagulanyi has since vowed to defy. Addressing a weekly press brief in Naguru, Kampala, police spokesperson, Mr. Fred Enanga said they anticipate planned protests dubbed Go-Kungu in various parts of the country on January 15, 2024. Although NUP has vowed to defiantly continue with its second phase of the mobilisation tour, they must be aware that under the Police Act, Sec 32(1) the police have a duty to police public, Enanga told journalists on Monday. In the previous NUP demonstrations, several people lost their lives, and others were charged with various crimes ranging from arson, malicious damage, attempted murder, incitement of violence, damages to roads, assault and obstruction of officers on duty, and various traffic offences among others, he added. Enanga says they have a multi-layered strategy including counterresponse, reaction, and arrests to fight illegal assemblies. Police have vowed not to rest until those who plan to use violence and intimidation for impunity and lawlessness are brought to book. Altus Group to Support Key Suppliers at Productronica 2023 Published: 18 September 2023 by Tyler Hanes by Tyler Hanes REDDITCH, UK Altus Group, a leading UK and Ireland distributor of electronics assembly equipment, will be supporting key suppliers at Productronica 2023 in Munich, Germany from 14-17th November. Altus aims to maximize engagement opportunities with partners and customers, connecting attendees with new product launches and live equipment demonstrations from their suppliers. Productronica is anticipated to attract a considerable audience, positioning itself as one of the most highly-attended industry events in recent years. Altus is strategically leveraging their entire sales team's presence at the exhibition to accommodate a high volume of supplier and customer meetings and ensure their clients can view the latest equipment innovations. Altus CEO, Joe Booth said: "It's exciting to have Productronica back on the calendar, with attendance levels reminiscent of pre-pandemic times. "We've spoken with many of our UK and Irish partners, and they are planning to send sizable delegations, eager to catch up with the industry's latest technologies from around the world. What's particularly exciting for us is that several of our suppliers are set to unveil and demonstrate new technologies for the first time at the event. This means we will have brand new processes to bring our local partners into 2024, with new features and enhanced value." At Productronica 2023, Altus will host its customers at their suppliers' booths, facilitating hands-on product demonstrations and meetings. If wish to engage with industry-leading suppliers and discover the latest advancements in electronics assembly equipment, contact Altus Group - www.altusgroup.co.uk Two Kilkenny companies have been awarded Irelands Best Managed Companies accolade at the 15th annual awards programme, led by Deloitte in association with Bank of Ireland. Amongst the winning companies this year were CluneTech and Modubuild. Both companies requalified this year having also been recognised in previous years at the awards. This year, Deloitte recognised 130 indigenous companies at the awards representing 24 of the 32 counties across the country. The network of companies has a combined turnover of 17 billion and 3 billion of exports sales, providing employment for over 53,000 people across Ireland across a range of sectors from manufacturing and tech to construction and food and beverage. A detailed judging process precedes the recognition, evaluating the entire management team and business strategy. The judges look beyond financial performance at areas such as a companys environmental, social and governance standards, strategic planning and talent strategy, when awarding Irelands top privately owned businesses. In addition to the Best Managed Company Award, there are several other award categories with the Family Business Award going to Cork-based food wholesaler and foodservice company Musgrave Group. The Read Mor book gifting project is back again for its second year. This time, patients in selected hospitals including St Luke's in Kilkenny, will have an opportunity to participate in Culture Night and escape to the furthest reaches of their imagination with a choice of 29 different books by Irish based authors and publishers. This year the Arts Council is proud to partner up with HSE Healthy Ireland. Read Mor will ensure that more people in more places can enjoy Culture Night. On September 22 the Read Mor Book Doctors and their teams will be prescribing over 3,600 free books from their library trolleys as they visit the wards and public spaces in 7 hospitals across Ireland including: Connolly Hospital, Dublin; Letterkenny Hospital, Donegal; Portiuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe, Galway; St Lukes Hospital, Kilkenny; Naas Hospital, Kildare; Ennis Hospital, Clare; and Croom Hospital, Limerick on Culture Night. The Book Doctors rounds will commence nationwide from 3pm onwards. Director of the Arts Council, Maureen Kennelly said: In a world filled with technological distractions, the joy of reading a physical book remains an invaluable resource. Read Mor is all about the public engaging with stories, ideas, and emotions that transport us to different realms of our imagination. "This year, Read Mor will also help bring the magic of Culture Night to those who cannot join in with the nights events in the usual way. We could not have done this without the enthusiastic support of so many writers and publishers. We are especially grateful to our partners in HSE Healthy Ireland for their support in making Read Mor happen in hospitals across Ireland this Culture Night. Once finished, patients are encouraged to share the joy of reading by passing on their book when they leave hospital to a family member or friend. With a wide variety being gifted, some as Gaeilge, there will be titles to suit all interests and ages, from novels, short stories, poetry, memoirs, to childrens and young adult books. Audiobook versions of a selection of the titles will also be available. There are a wealth of authors who are part of the Read Mor book gifting programme including Eimear McBride, who won the inaugural Goldsmith prize; John Banville, winner of the Booker Prize 2005; Nuala Ni Dhomhnaill, leading Irish poet; Oein DeBhairduin, co-founder of LGBT TARA (Traveller and Roma Alliance); and Emma Donoghue, whose book was transformed into the Oscar winning film, Room; and many more! Secretary of State Bob Evnen is encouraging Nebraskans to register to vote on National Voter Registration Day, Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2023. Every vote matters, and every registered voter in Nebraska matters, Evnen said in a press release. Its important to make your voice heard, and you can do that every election by casting your ballot. If youre already a registered voter in Nebraska, thank you. Please take a moment today to make sure your registration information is current with our records. There are several convenient ways people can register to vote or check their voter registration: To check voter registration information online, visit ne.gov/go/votercheck. To register to vote online, visit nebraska.gov/apps-sos-voter-registration. To register to vote in-person, visit your county election office and fill out a paper form. To be an eligible voter in Nebraska, a person: Must be a citizen of the United States Must be a resident of Nebraska Must be least 18 years old Cannot have been officially found to be mentally incompetent People who have been convicted of a felony can vote if two years have passed since the completion of their sentence, including any parole time, for the felony. As of September 2023, there are 1,226,164 registered voters in Nebraska. Voters can be registered with the Nebraska Republican Party, the Nebraska Democratic Party, the Nebraska Libertarian Party or the Legal Marijuana NOW Party. If a voter doesnt want to register with a party, they can select nonpartisan, meaning they are not affiliated with any Nebraska political party. More voter registration statistics can be found at the Secretary of States website: sos.nebraska.gov. National Voter Registration Day also is a reminder for people who are already registered voters to verify that their address and contact information is current. Updating registration information is important for anyone who has moved, anyone who has changed their name, anyone who wants to change their party affiliation or anyone who has had their voting rights restored since the last election. BEIJING, Sept 18 (Reuters) - China's central bank and forex regulator met with foreign financial institutions and companies on Monday, as Beijing strives to attract overseas investment to support its recovery. Morgan Stanley (MS.N), HSBC (HSBA.L), Deutsche Bank (DBKGn.DE) and Tesla (TSLA.O) were among those attending the meeting, according to a statement by the People's Bank of China (PBOC), in a sign of renewed efforts by Chinese policymakers to revive foreign trade and investment. The worlds second-largest economy has lost steam since the second quarter and showed only tentative signs of stabilisation last month with policy support. China will improve its policies, and create a market-oriented and international-level business climate, PBOC Governor Pan Gongsheng was quoted as saying in the statement. Pan said China will also continue to improve the quality and efficiency of its financial services. The firms at the meeting called on Beijing to optimise its business environment, the statement said. China has sought to court foreign capital as its economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic slows in the face of tepid overseas demand and property weakness. In a bid to attract more foreign investment, China's State Council, its cabinet, in August issued guidelines on overseas capital, saying authorities should increase protection of the rights and interests of outside investors, including strengthening enforcement of intellectual property rights. Actualised foreign direct investment into China fell 5.1% year-on year to 847.2 billion yuan ($116 billion) in the first eight months of 2023, the commerce ministry said on Friday. ($1 = 7.2949 Chinese yuan renminbi) Get all the essential market news and expert opinions in one place with our daily newsletter. Receive a comprehensive recap of the day's top stories directly to your inbox. Sign up here! (Kitco News) - Precious metals producer Coeur Mining (NYSE: CDE) today announced the achievement of several critical milestones at its major Rochester expansion project in Nevada, including the production of the first silver and gold ounces. The company said that metal production from the new Stage VI leach pad and Merill-Crowe process plant leach began mid-month with initial dore expected to be poured today. Full ramp-up to commercial production is expected to be achieved in early 2024. Importantly, Coeur added that with the primary gyratory crusher now installed, construction of the new three-stage crushing circuit is now substantially complete. Once fully ramped-up, throughput is expected to average 32 million tons per year, which is approximately 2.5x higher than historical levels, making Rochester one of the worlds largest open pit heap leach operations, the company said in a press release. The companys Rochester mine is an open pit, heap leach silver-gold operation, located in Pershing County, Nevada. The largest expansion project in the mines history is underway, which will potentially extend Rochesters mine life for 13 years. Following a ramp-up period expected to last into early 2024, Rochester is expected to drive a step-change in the companys overall production levels, cost profile, and cash flow. Coeur Mining is a U.S.-based precious metals producer with four wholly-owned operations: the Palmarejo gold-silver complex in Mexico, the Rochester silver-gold mine in Nevada, the Kensington gold mine in Alaska and the Wharf gold mine in South Dakota. In addition, the company wholly-owns the Silvertip silver-zinc-lead exploration project in British Columbia. Sept 18 (Reuters) - European shares eased on Monday, after sharp gains last week, as investors braced for a week packed with global central bank meetings, including rate decisions from Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK and the United States. The pan-European STOXX 600 (.STOXX) fell 0.4% by 0805 GMT, with healthcare (.SXDP) and rate-sensitive technology stocks (.SX8P) weighing on the index. Global central banks will take centre stage this week after the European Central Bank (ECB) signalled an end to rate hikes last week. The Bank of England (BoE) is likely to hike rates for the 15th time later in the week, while the Federal Reserve seems set for a hawkish pause. "If the BoE does deliver a hike, we expect it to be similar to the ECB, with subsequent commentary indicating that they are likely done with hikes," Mohit Kumar, chief European economist for Jefferies, said in a note. "The CPI data which comes just a day before the MPC meeting could sway the decision if it surprises strongly." Goldman Sachs lowered its forecast for the BoE's terminal rate by 25 basis points to 5.5%. Markets remained cautious as euro zone bond yields edged higher after hawkish remarks from some ECB officials post their rate decision. ECB Governing Council member Yannis Stournaras said governments must do their part in reining in consumer prices after borrowing costs reached a level that may well be their peak, Bloomberg News reported on Sunday. Nordic Semiconductor ASA (NOD.OL) shed 13.2% to drop to the bottom of the STOXX 600 after cutting its revenue guidance for the third quarter. Peer Fingerprint Cards (FINGb.ST) fell 5.8%. Societe Generale (SOGN.PA) fell 6.3% after France's third-biggest bank said it expected little, if any, growth in annual sales over the coming years in a keenly-awaited strategic plan from its new CEO. Lonza's (LONN.S) chief executive, Pierre-Alain Ruffieux, will leave the Swiss company by mutual agreement at the end of the month, sending the contract drug manufacturer's shares down 9.6% on concerns about the group's medium-term profit prospects. Martin Sorrell's ad group S4 Capital (SFOR.L) slumped 22% on cutting its annual forecast for the second time in as many months, saying recession fears were making clients cautious. Sept 15 (Reuters) - A former Wells Fargo (WFC.N) executive Carrie Tolstedt will not serve prison time for her role in the bank's fake-accounts scandal, the Wall Street Journal reported on Friday. A Los Angeles judge on Friday sentenced Tolstedt to three years' probation and six months of home confinement, according to the report, which added that she will also pay a $100,000 fine and serve 120 hours of community service. Wells Fargo declined to comment. Tolstedt earlier this year agreed to plead guilty to obstructing a bank examination in relation to the sweeping phony accounts scandal that roiled Wells Fargo in 2016. BRUSSELS/LONDON, Sept 15 (Reuters) - The Group of Seven (G7) countries is expected to announce an import ban on Russian diamonds in the next 2-3 weeks, Belgian officials told reporters on Friday, in a bid to tighten a squeeze on Russia's capacity to finance the war in Ukraine. The plan could transform the global diamond supply chain, but implementation will depend heavily on India, whose diamond industry employs millions of people who cut and polish 90% of the world's diamonds. The ban, proposed by Belgium where the city of Antwerp is the world's No. 1 diamond trading hub, will come into effect on January 1, one of the government officials, who asked not to be named, told reporters in Brussels. If it goes ahead as anticipated, it would split the global consumer diamond market. The G7, which accounts for 70% of the consumer market, would no longer accept diamonds from Russia, the world's biggest producer of rough diamonds. "Were talking about restructuring a global market," the official said, acknowledging that the system wouldn't work perfectly right away and the G7 was still evaluating the details of Belgium's proposed plan. "Russia is the biggest supplier globally. With this system, we are cutting them out, leaving them in an inferior market with lower prices. We are slashing the financial flows from this sector." Efforts to reduce Russia's diamond revenues and build on Washington's sanctions on Russia's Alrosa (ALRS.MM), the world's largest diamond producer, have been discussed among G7 leaders since last year. Alrosa declined to comment. The EU bought 1.4 billion euros ($1.5 billion) worth of Russian diamonds last year, based on data from Eurostat, as the EU has not banned Russian gem imports nor blacklisted Alrosa. Anglo American Plc's (AAL.L) diamond business De Beers said the diamond industry aims to support the G7 efforts. "The question is how we can do this collectively and effectively so that all parts of the industry large and small are represented," it said in an email. Before Russia's war with Ukraine, De Beers and Alrosa led global rough diamond sales, with De Beers accounting for 33% in value terms and Alrosa for 24%, based on a De Beers report. As of 2021, global rough diamond sales totalled $16.4 billion, while demand for polished diamonds was $28 billion, the De Beers report showed. Demand for natural diamond jewellery stood at $87 billion, with the United States the largest consumer. INDIA, AFRICA EXEMPTIONS As of now, once Russian diamonds are cut and polished outside of Russia, they are considered originating from the country that "transformed" them, diamond analyst Paul Zimnisky said. "Industry representatives have been quite actively included in this discussion and thus the government officials are being cognisant of and trying to limit the negative impact this will have on centres that are neutral to the issue like India and Africa," he said. Belgium does not want the extra cost to fall on consumers and jewellers, or to limit the stones that India cuts. The EU country has suggested the customs checks be centralised in the G7's wholesale entry points for rough and polished stones. There will be three layers of control and blockchain systems that will generate two G7 certificates for rough and polished items and only then will they be allowed to freely circulate within the G7. "The Indian polishers can polish whatever they want but (Russian gems) need to be segregated ... At the point when the polished diamond is offered for export, the reference will be made to the original rough, again using a combination of physical inspection and traceability data," the second Belgian official said. India's Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council declined to comment. The system would also exempt African diamond producers. If an African seller can show the provenance is local and the output remains in line with production statistics then there is no need for a G7 certificate, the Belgian officials added. "By cutting out Alrosa, we (Belgium) will be as a trading hub cut off from 35-40% of the market," one of the officials said. In the medium term, Russian gems could be sent to Asian consumers leaving non-Russian diamonds for Western markets, Zimnisky said. "I think the G7 officials involved with this are taking it quite seriously and I believe they will strictly enforce it. But the enforcement method will be the challenging part." ($1 = 0.9387 euros) Get all the essential market news and expert opinions in one place with our daily newsletter. Receive a comprehensive recap of the day's top stories directly to your inbox. Sign up here! (Kitco News) -Copper producer Ivanhoe Mines (TSX: IVN) (OTCQX: IVPAF) today reported that a fatal accident has occurred at the Kamoa-Kakula copper complex in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In a statement, the company said that a fatal accident occurred underground at the Kakula mine when Mr. Mick Ilunga, a contractor drill rig operator, was struck by a fall of ground, adding that a second contractor drill rig operator is receiving medical treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. Ivanhoe Mines noted that Kamoa Copper is undertaking a comprehensive internal investigation into the accident and is working with the DRC authorities to facilitate their investigation of the accident. On behalf of the Kamoa Copper Joint Venture, Ivanhoe Mines extends its deepest condolences to the grieving family and friends of Mr. Ilunga, the company said. Ivanhoe Mines also reported that mining activities at the Kakula underground mine have temporarily ceased. The Phase 1 and 2 concentrators continue to operate, drawing from surface ore stockpiles. Ivanhoe Mines is a Canadian mining company focused on advancing its three principal projects in Southern Africa; the expansion of the Kamoa-Kakula copper complex in the DRC, the construction of the tier-one Platreef palladium-rhodium-platinum-nickel-copper-gold project in South Africa; and the restart of the historic ultra-high-grade Kipushi zinc-copper-germanium-silver mine, also in the DRC. Get all the essential market news and expert opinions in one place with our daily newsletter. Receive a comprehensive recap of the day's top stories directly to your inbox. Sign up here! (Kitco News) - After uranium prices surged by nearly 8% in August to over $60 per pound and drove mining stocks to double-digit gains, analysts at Sprott see several reasons why demand for the metal should remain strong for years to come. Uranium's impressive uptick in August set it apart from many other commodities, which faced declines due to the strengthening USD and China's softening economy, wrote Jacob White, ETF Product Manager at Sprott Asset Management. Decade-high uranium contracting levels by utilities, coupled with supply disruptions and risks, are helping to create a robust demand market. White noted the strong performance for both the metal and the miners in August. This upward trend in uranium stocks underscores the sector's strengthening fundamentals, he said. It also signals a growing reality that the future of uranium supply will hinge on the revival of dormant mines and the inception of new mining projects. He pointed out that uraniums fundamental outlook makes it among the least susceptible of all the industrial metals to China's ongoing economic challenges. Year to date, as of August 31, 2023, spot uranium and uranium mining stocks have gained 25.49% and 21.52%, respectively, and have outperformed the frothy S&P 500 TR Index's YTD gain of 18.73%, he said, noting that uraniums performance is even more impressive when measured over longer timeframes. For the five years ended August 31, 2023, U3O8 spot price appreciated a cumulative 132.39% compared to 26.62% for the BCOM. White believes that the metal is approaching a pivotal juncture as it gets closer to its 2022 peak of $63.77. Our analysis suggests that uranium is in its third bull market phase since 1968, he said. With the global primary mine supply consistently falling short of the world's reactor uranium needs, we anticipate even more growth potential for the commodity. On the demand side, he noted an unprecedented number of announcements for nuclear power plant restarts, life extensions and new builds, which should support incremental growth for uranium demand. Consequently, utilities are accelerating their purchases under long-term agreements, which are on track to exceed last year's 10-year high at 107MM lbs. of U3O8e YTD, White said. Notably, increasing contracting from utilities, as opposed to financial entities, has been the primary driver for the rise in the uranium price year to date. The supply side of the equation, on the other hand, is already trailing this growing demand with a cumulative forecasted supply shortfall of approximately 1.5 billion pounds by 2040, and the gap is expected to widen in the coming years. The industry is recognizing the need for more uranium mining, White said, with even Sweden moderating its decades-long anti-nuclear stance to lift its mining ban and increase its nuclear output. Yet, despite such announcements, the sector continues to grapple with pronounced supply challenges, he wrote. White said that the miners are recognizing the need and the opportunity and have begun restarting dormant mines, including Cameco's McArthur River and Cigar Lake mines, but these and other projects have faced challenges resulting in postponements and lower-than-anticipated production. Geopolitical challenges have also impacted uranium supplies, White said, pointing to the recent coup in Niger, which accounts for 4% of the worlds uranium production. Compounding the uranium supply's geopolitical risks is the question of Russian supply, he said. Western utilities have been self-sanctioning, albeit taking deliveries of uranium under existing contracts while not signing any new contracts. Further, legislation to reshore the U.S. nuclear supply chain away from Russia has been advancing, such as the Nuclear Security Act, which helped start the current rally in uranium on July 31, 2023. As a result, he said power utilities are refocusing their attention on uranium inventory management to ensure a more secure supply and to avoid price shocks. Utilities consistently maintain inventory stocks of uranium in various forms, whether in uranium concentrate (U3O8), natural UF6, enriched UF6 or fabricated fuel (not inserted into a reactor), White said. This results in a situation opposite to just-in-time inventory and ensures that the utilities can run their nuclear power plants almost continuously. Such stockpiles have been indispensable in bridging supply-demand gaps amidst disruptions. But after years of relying on secondary supplies as primary mining production failed to meet global reactor needs, White said the former have peaked and will not be able to fill the supply gap. The era of taking uranium stockpiles and procurement strategies for granted seems to be ending, he said. Over the long term, increased demand in the face of an uncertain uranium supply are likely to continue to support a sustained bull market. Kazakhstan Sets Up National Payment Corporation To Lead CBDC Efforts Source: Iliya Mitskavets/Adobe The National Bank of Kazakhstan (NBK) has unveiled the National Payment Corporation (NPC), a body charged with the implementation of digital financial infrastructure and the digital tenge. According to an official press release on Sept 15, the NPC will oversee efforts at rolling out the countys Central Bank Digital Currency ( CBDC ) digital tenge. The new body is a reorganization of the Kazakhstan Center for Interbank Settlements and will also supervise the National Payment Systems, Digital identifications, Interbank money clearing and transfers. The National Bank of Kazakhstan (NBK) informs about the creation of the National Payment Corporation (hereinafter referred to as the Corporation, NPK JSC) through the reorganization of the RSE Kazakhstan Center for Interbank Settlements (KISC). Per the release, the restructuring is billed to scale the efficiency, and security of the countrys payment architecture and develop digital infrastructure services to incorporate new possibilities. Kazakhstan launched efforts towards its CBDC in February with a planned introduction before 2025, a move characterized as highly achievable among many quarters. At the time, the NBK cited a need to strike a synergy between traditional and decentralized finance (DeFi), financial inclusion among several demographic and industries, and global payments. The country has kicked off pilots with selected merchants and consumers in partnership with Binance. Binance recently announced investments in the country including opening a digital asset exchange in the country and partnerships with local banks. Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao tweeted that the National Bank of #Kazakhstan (NBK) will integrate its central bank digital currency (CBDC), the digital tenge, on the @BNBCHAIN.https://t.co/3rIUUBbojN Cryptonews.com (@cryptonews) October 27, 2022 Kazakhstan crypto regime Last year, Kazakhstan was hailed for becoming a huge digital asset hub in Central Asia after the country recorded increasing adoption in crypto users and Bitcoin (BTC) miners. After the Chinese mining ban, Kazakhstan became a new mining hotspot alongside Texas and other jurisdictions. However, recent developments like the fall of FTX and heightened power supply pressure may have led to slight changes in policy. In February, the countrys President signed a law to limit energy usage for crypto miners following a huge influx of new miners which added an extra 1.5GW growth on the national grid. #Bitcoin Miners Blamed for Energy Issues as Kazakhstan Looks to Limit Mining Ream More https://t.co/HU4epB6s2M Cryptonews.com (@cryptonews) October 19, 2021 Unlike the former framework, the law allows crypto miners to utilize power from the grid only when there is a surplus and will only be distributed to licensed miners. Miners who generate their power from renewable sources outside the national grid are exempted from the law The law also looks to tweak the tax regime in the industry alongside mining pools that registered firms can use with a further obligation for miners to sell their crypto to exchanges registered and operating in a special economic zone, the Astana International Finance Center. Financial authorities have also released statements on assets custody following the fall of FTX with some observers describing the recent push to CBDCs as a change of stance from private cryptocurrencies. Alex Holland writes: Race based special treatment rather than treatment based on need (for any ethnicity) is becoming a real issue. Two out of every three voters believe NZ has become more divided. Here are some of the rights & funding ring-fenced by one human attribute (ancestry), many of which have been introduced under this Labour government: Labour announced 12 new HIGH protection areas in Auckland's Hauraki Gulf to protect and restore marine ecosystems', while STILL allowing only Maori to fish in them. They are not marine reserves; they are race based exclusive fishing zones. Te Whatu Ora is using tax payer money for Maori & Pacific of any age (only Maori & Pacific ethnicity) to receive free advice and management' (including free medicines) at pharmacies for certain conditions. Reduced/removed rates for Maori landowners under the Local Government (Rating of Whenua Maori) Amendment Act 2021: 1. write off rates owing 2. remove rates altogether for land owned but not developed 3. reduce any remaining rates The new $26 million visitor centre for Punakaiki rocks given to local Iwi who then they charge for entry. New guidelines from Pharmac reveal that Maori are the priority population. Essentially, those with Maori ethnicity will now be guaranteed priority treatment ahead of others with greater health needs. Iwi allowed their own justice system, which often does not go in the victim's favour and gives lenient outcomes to offenders. Auckland surgeons must now consider ethnicity in prioritising patients for operations giving priority to Maori and Pacific Island patients (contrary to the Human Rights Act 1993). Since May 2023 only Maori & Pacifica are allowed to get GP referrals for free counselling. New Zealand Health Strategy 2023 should be equally about all New Zealanders but focuses on Inequity for Maori'. Maori' or Iwi' are mentioned 169 times while European' is mentioned 4 times. The Department of Internal Affairs has released a proposal for a new way to regulate social media and traditional media platforms that will control what can and cannot be discussed online. However, Maori are given elevated status in a co-governing role within the regulatory body. Maori are granted protections to express themselves freely, a privilege not given to any other New Zealander. The proposal will place Maori at the heart of the decisions about what New Zealanders are allowed to say. Labour have decided that rather than looking for low price and minimum risk, government agencies need to ENSURE 8% of government contracts go to Maori business. Only Maori can apply for all government contracts, everyone else is restricted to 92% of them. $560 million tax payer funding to support Maori in getting the free Covid vaccine, including cash incentives for Maori to get vaccinated. Also, a Covid vaccine Priority Access Code' was made available if you were Maori. $438 million in tax payer funding given to upgrade privately owned marae across the country (510 projects 358 marae, from a range' of crown funds including from the Covid funds). Labour set aside $7.75 million for truancy issues for Maori & Pacific students. All employees from the Department of Conservation will get paid $3500 (of tax payer money) if they attend a Maori language course. Labour have changed the rules so if Maori or Pacific Islanders make up over half of a GP's clients they get an increase in funding. If the proportion is 49% or below, they get no increase. Three waters proposal will give Maori 50% voting rights (with only 16% opting' as Maori) and power of veto over all water. Labour spent $14 million tax payer dollars on increasing Iwi/Maori understanding of the changes, including a $220 per hour strategic advisor' in Maori. New water services entity amendment bill (for 3 waters) states that public submissions (Community Priority Statements) may' be considered. In contrast, the Water Services Entities (WSE's) must' respond directly to Te Mana o te Wai Statements and must' include a plan how the Water Services Entities intends to give effect to Te Mana o te Wai Statements the new Community Priority Statements fall well short of the powers provided to local Maori through Te Mana o te Wai statements. This is what Labour is not telling you about as these are at the operational level, unlike the (50%) c*o-governance at the Regional Representative Groups level. Labour giving Maori access to funding for their legal costs to claim the Seabed & Foreshore, from mean high tide out to 12 nautical miles. Opponents to Maori claims must fund their own legal costs. $7.3 million tax payer dollars to make new screening process for cervical cancer screening free for Maori and Pacific Island woman but anyone else pays $40-$60. Labour funded $107,280 in taxpayer money to a racist stage show about murdering James Cook, his descendants and white men like him' with pig hunting knives. Requirement for staff to take into account a student's cultural identity when awarding passing grades; rather than their individual merit. Labour announced 20 per cent of commercial spectrum to be given to Maori, a permanent Maori spectrum entity will be established and $75 million of funding will go towards development. Maori get free bowel screening from 55 years old. Also, Andrew Little announced Maori will get superior access to bowel screening etc. Maori and Pacifica are automatically entitled to free flu injections over 55 years of age, aged 30 & over are eligible for a free extra Covid booster and free anti-viral Covid treatment over the age of 50 (for everyone else it is 65 & over). Labour has prioritised Plunket care for Maori and Pacifica, all other ethnicities have been deprioritised. Labour using tax payer funds during a cost-of-living crisis & record debt to re-name streets, parks & government departments to Maori names no cost/benefit justification given. Labour spent tax payer money to reformat the New Zealand passports so that now Te Reo is before any English rather than after it no cost/benefit justification given, and now every border control in the world has to sift through a foreign language to read the passport (reducing efficiency). Maori don't have to score mid to high 90's to pass exam to get into medical school. Only Maori can legally collect particular shell fish in particular areas. Auckland Council is aiming to have 5 percent of the value of all direct contracts awarded to diverse suppliers Maori and/or Pasifika-owned business or social enterprises. Auckland Transport's target is to have 2 percent of the value of procurement spend with Maori-owned businesses by the end of 2023. Watercare aims for 5 percent of total spend to be with Maori businesses by the end of the 2025 financial year. Powers given to Maori to close public National parks (e.g. Whirinaki Conservation Park rahui restricting all access for people from outside the immediate community had been invoked by Ngati Whare). Without consulting anyone, Tuhoe had removed 15 huts from the Ureweras and planned to remove the other 33. Labour deciding what input Maori (only) should have in immigration policy. Labour removed rights voters had to trigger a local binding referendum e.g. Maori wards. Labour's Local Government Minister trying to get 50% of Council seats to be held by Maori. $12 million government support for Maori landowners to invest in growing sheep milk industry. Report by the auditor-general on the $290 million Strategic Tourism Assets Protection Programme: The Tourism Recovery Minister decided to fund all tourism businesses that scored more than 15 out of 30 points in the assessment process. They also decided to fund all eligible Maori tourism businesses, including those that scored less than 15 out of 30 points in the assessment process. Labours budget for 2020 had $1 billion to improve outcomes for Maori in response to Covid-19. $1.1 billion for Maori in Budget 2021. 2022 Budget: An extra $26m (now $155m in total) for Progressive Procurement i.e. favouring Maori-owned businesses as government contractors. $118m in advisory services for farmers and Maori land owners. $580m for Maori Health and wellbeing including $188m for the new Maori Health Authority. $20m establishing new Iwi-Maori Partnership Boards (i.e. introducing co-governance to the new health system). A $1 billion Maori Budget including: $91m on Maori trades, training, and cadetships, $3m for marae connectivity, $5m for Iwi/Maori teachers. $200m for Maori education. $28m for Maori language, culture and identity. $162m for Maori organisations to reduce emissions, including $36m for matauranga [traditional knowledge]-based approaches to reducing biological emissions and $30m for Maori Climate Action. $178m for councils dealing with RMA reform with a new National Maori Entity to co-govern resource management. Maori have been allocated a total of $825 million in 2023 Wellbeing Budget. 2023 Budget: Te Matatini (Maori performing arts festival) has its annual funding increased from $2.9 million per year to $34 million over the next two years. Money set aside for poor people is being taken from the community services card fund to give Maori and only Maori women a $50 Prezzy card who turn up for their pregnancy assessment. That means if you have 1% Maori ancestry and are rich, you will still get a $50 Prezzy card (from the fund for the poor) because of your trace of Maori ancestry, not because you need it. Not available for anyone actually in need that doesn't have Maori ancestry. Labour splashed tax payer money on Warriors match tickets or food vouchers for Maori and Pasifika who hadn't filled in their census forms. $2 million was budgeted for handing out support vouchers to get non-responding individuals and households to complete the census. Tax payer money for Whanau to achieve their aspirations' through Whanau Ora commissioning agencies. Free hospital parking tickets to Maori with a family member in hospital. Maori private business given tax payer money & loans e.g. Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa: $14 million given to it and an additional $38 million dollar tax payer loan. Primary Healthcare operations/organisations paid $25 per patient to screen Maori & Pacific for Cardiovascular. Specialist Education is scaled where Maori & Pacifica leap frog others for specialist education support. Labour handed out $70 million in tax payer dollars to set up 30 Iwi lead community panels instead of courts for Maori offenders. Also, the Police Commissioner has established a 21-member Maori Focus Forum that not only co-designs policing strategy for dealing with Maori offenders, but also plays a governance role. The end result of this partnership with Iwi is that Police live up to the joint expectations of those partners, to improve long term wellbeing for Maori who come to Police attention. In other words, Maori justice is all about the offender ensuring they have a positive outcome. There is little regard for the victim. A violent attack that sent a tourist to hospital resulted in no arrests, no charges, no court, no sentence only a chat with a community panel of iwi. It seems the Police have now become an inclusive partner for Iwi Maori. As a result, offenders who are Maori now have a different pathway one that looks past the victim to embrace the culture of the offender. Probation Officers being told to move away from recommending imprisonment for Maori & Pacific Islanders. Labour launched a $98 million dollar strategy to reduce Maori over-representation in prisons in August 2019. By 2022 the proportion of Maori in prison had increased. Meantime, Marama Davidson (leader of Greens party) stated I am a prevention violence minister. I know who causes violence in the world, it is white cis men. The Plant Variety Rights Bill introduces a Maori Plant Varieties Committee. It can block plant varieties being registered and the bill says A person must not be appointed as a member of the committee unless, in the opinion of the Commissioner, the person is qualified for appointment, having regard to that person's knowledge of matauranga Maori.' maori party put on their website that it is a well-known fact that Maori are genetically superior'. To date, no apology has been given. Labour is removing or reducing biodiversity protection restrictions for Maori land (changing FNDC SNA mapping), but does this extend to anyone else? Labour has dedicated $18 million tax payer dollars (over four years) for iwi-based events and resources that support whanau, hapu and iwi to grow and lead their practices and customs relating to te kahui o Matariki/Matariki Public Holiday. Government lead Mapping for Sites and Areas of Significance to Maori (SASM) didn't involve Farmers consultation Timura council alone has identified 4000 property owners whose lands fits into the 5 categories of SASM regulations (sacred areas). A fund administered by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment invests in projects designed to strengthen capability, capacity, skills and networks between Maori and the science and innovation system. Parliament's new Te Kahui Mouri' (2 wooden Maori poles) unveiled in July 2023 cost tax payers $500,000, described as tone-deaf during a cost-of-living crisis when Kiwis are being asked to tighten their belts. Counsellors being told they can only accept young people & Maori & Pacifica. Also, a psychologist in Wellington said that hospitals are referring Maori & Pacific Islanders to private psychologist and the businesses are losing money because they often don't turn up. Any other ethnicity can only be referred to the public health system, there is a 5-month waiting list unless they pay for private care themselves. Police and the government turn a blind eye to illegal occupation of private land only if under Maori protest occupation (e.g. Ihumatao & property on the banks of the Taipa River). $55 million fund for media to promote that the treaty of waitangi is a partnership forty percent of the first allocations went to projects benefiting Maori journalism. The fund prevents an opposing point of view to the Labour government's race-based program. An Independent Maori Statutory Board has been established tasked with representing the views of Maori at the governance level in councils. The Hauraki Gulf Forum voted 11-7 in favour of changing its composition to that of a 50:50 co-governance authority with mana whenua and others'. It is also proposing to develop its own statutory plans, that could prevail over council policies and central government decision-making, for all matters in respect of the Gulf. Although the elected members voted 7-5 against the proposals, six more votes were collected from the tangata whenua appointed members making the final vote 11-7 in favour of the proposals. $49,999 towards an Indigenised Hypno-soundscape to take you to the imagined worlds of our Korero Purakau'. The Health Coalition Aotearoa claiming The Burden of obesity has been disproportionately carried by Maori and Pacifica' is a breach of the Treaty of Waitangi. The Canterbury Regional Council (Ngai Tahu Representation) Bill setting a significant precedent for unelected iwi representation. $100 million regional employment scheme to focus on Maori & Pasifika people. The Maori Health Authority (Te Aka Whai Ora) is spending more than $1.15 million a month on contractors and consultants. The Maori Health Authority will have veto rights over the entire health system; Maori patients to be prioritised over non-Maori. Even before the Pae Ora (Health Reform) legislation came into effect, $22 million was allocated to establishing the Maori Health Authority board headed up by Nanaia Mahuta's sister Tipa. In 1997 the New Zealand Government returned the rights of greenstone (pounamu) ownership to Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu. Therefore, all greenstone found becomes the right of Iwi to obtain & sell. In conservation, an Options Developments Group set up by the Department of Conservation to better recognise the Treaty partnership' recommends the delegation, transfer and devolution of functions and powers within the conservation system to tangata whenua. Waitangi Tribunal's Wai 262 report categorises as Maori taonga' a wide range of treasures' including intellectual property rights, genetics, and all living species in the country both native and introduced. In 2020, $6.2 million was allocated to develop a Treaty partnership programme to ensure Maori participate in, benefit from and make decisions' over anything identified taonga'. A 91.75% majority vote to change Playcentre Aotearoa's constitution has been overruled due to Maori co-governance vote having ultimate power. Labour quietly slipped through legislation that empowers Iwi (only Maori) to legally run roadblocks. Labour announced a $730 million Maori housing budget to build 1000 homes and repair 700 owner-occupied homes over four years. 68 public schools' ownership moving to Ngati Toa Rangatira. The Mahi Whakaara programme is part of the Maori Trades and Training Fund (MTTF), a $18.5 million government leg up for Maori jobseekers. Labour announced $38 million will go to strengthening existing initiatives in Maori and Pacific communities for family and sexual violence prevention. Tax payer funds committed to develop a specific Maori Climate Strategy and Action Plan. Kainga Ora spent $204,897 on koha between 2019-2021 (interact with marae or have someone perform a ceremonial role, majority of time it has been a monetary contribution). That is just one government agency, what other agencies have given money to Iwi? What other cultures have received equivalent gifts if any? Maori Development Minister Willie Jackson says Labour will invest $25 million into the Cadetships programme, delivered by Te Puni Kokiri. Te Pae Tawhiti programme which supports research and innovation in the Maori economy is getting a further $27.6 million investment over the next four years. $25.9 million funding for Ngai Tahu to reduce young South Island Maori in state care. Labour funding polytechnic to convert its workbooks and assessments for its level 3 automotive engineering course to Te Reo Maori. Labour is allocating $6.5 million into a programme set to enhance Maori employment outcomes in the research, science and innovation workforce. Planning laws to be taken from local councils given to 14 co-governed entities. The Herald reports, Labour has decided that there will be 14 regional planning committees throughout New Zealand comprising representatives of the local government and of Maori. The new Maori Health Authority has a budget of half a billion dollars and CEO Riana Manuel has allocated $100 million of that to support centuries-old treatments called maramataka the Maori tradition of using the moon and stars to help treat mental health issues. Nanaia Mahuta was associate minister when her husband's firm was awarded $72,999 Government contract to facilitate six meetings (hui) and 14 workshops to engage with Maori and to provide a high-level overview of the agency's Auckland housing projects. Labour announced a $80 million Maori media strategy. The Reserve Bank is looking to use its position and insights to improve access to capital for Maori (only). Auckland Council uses rates for Maori outcomes funding & Tupuna Maunga Operational Plan. Cyclone Gabrielle: Maori given $15 million to support a Maori-led recovery of flood-hit communities. Pacifica & Maori patients in South Auckland are to be seen by a medical professional on the day they seek help, pushing everyone else further down the list. Health minister has set aside $2.2 million on PR consultants' on new Maori Health authority. Think tank Tokona Te Raki Maori Futures Collective has launched a new action plan to remove streaming from schools by 2030 because they consider it racist'; rather than advancing the top tier students, they would prefer to hold back potential. Te Kainga rental building quality two and three bedroom apartments for Wellingtonians that are below market rate for the inner city. Applicants who work for Maori organisations are prioritised. Special provisions for Maori culture: Kindergarten Teachers Accept Latest Collective Agreement Offer including a cultural allowance for kaiako Maori'. Students who have some Maori or Pasifika heritage not only have access to the scholarships designated for them, but also have the opportunity to apply for the same scholarships that a non-Maori/Pasifika can. Only Maori get to choose what electoral role they are on and swap back and forth at any time. Maori seats were meant to be abolished in 1879 when the rule was removed that you had to own land under your personal name (inadvertently excluding groups/tribes) to be able to vote. Labour has encouraged integrating Te Reo into English to normalise Pidgin English', rather than supporting both as separate important languages in their own right. Labour used this Pidgin English to communicate important announcements throughout Covid19 & other emergencies whether you understood it or not. Rawiri Waititi called all non-Maori New Zealanders who did not speak Maori dumb. Hone Harawira says it is appropriate for Maori (only) to eat Kereru (protected native pigeon). Labour has spent tax payer money on introducing a school history' curriculum that supports the Maori view of New Zealand to indoctrinate children into Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles & partnership'. Special tax rates e.g. Maori Charitable Trust'. State Funding proposed for A new fund Te Putea Whakangawari Korero a-Tiriti / Treaty Facilitation Fund should be available to facilitate party and candidate engagement with Maori communities, in ways appropriate for Maori.' The tax payer paid free school lunches programme was given an extra $323 million in the 2023 budget to keep it running. 48% of students receiving the free lunches are Maori. A Treasury report was hugely critical of it with found no evidence of impacting attendance or benefiting akonga Maori. Maori Party calling for Maori (only) to get pension to start at 57 years old. Covid Response funds are spent on: Atawhai Interactive Tapui, which received $250,000 towards production of Toroa, that gives tamariki and rangatahi an experience to fly as Toroa on its journey from the Pacific Ocean back to its home on Taiaroa head. It will explore the themes of whakapapa as the Toroa soars over the ocean, deified as Takaroa, on the winds of Tawhirimatea. $1,323,000 Taki Rua Productions The development and delivery of two immersive live productions of large-scale contemporary Maori performing arts pieces. $1,015,300 Maoriland Charitable Trust to deliver Purita, a capability system to enable identification and development of Maori potential. $248,460 on traditional Maori painting. $20,000 Te Runaka o Otakou scoping the use of a web platform to leverage purakau [myths and legends], and traditional and contemporary technologies to connect with the Otakou diaspora. $20,000 on a business plan for Tongan mat-weaving. $20,000 To develop a business plan for virtual reality recreations of current Maori wahi tapu [sacred places] with an initial focus on Kai Tahu marae and their historic sites of interest. $20,000 To contribute to the creation of a te reo Maori children's book which uses an app to embellish the story with music and claymation videos, and allows the reader to recreate waiata using instrumental loops. There are New Zealand national sporting teams & awards defined by race. Maori Data Governance Model has been designed by Maori for use across the New Zealand public service that could affect your data. While the Waitangi tribunal holds the government (tax payer) to account for historical transgressions against Maori, there is no tribunal holding Iwi to account for any of their historical transgressions (e.g. Ngati Tama and Ngati Mutunga genocide & slavery of the Chatham Islands Moriori up until 1867). While no financial assistance is available for anyone wanting to oppose tribal claims, the government has provided lucrative funding of up to $458,000 for applicants to prepare their case, with further funding available for historical research as well as for legal fees and other costs associated with court hearings including accommodation, air fares, meals etc. Researchers asked academics to assess their own freedom on a number of issues on a scale of zero to 10. Newsroom reports: The lowest scoring area was freedom to debate or discuss issues around the Treaty of Waitangi and colonialism. Money channelled into marae renovations, and Maori and Pasifika businesses questioned by the Office of the Auditor-General on the $640 million of public money spent on the Provincial Growth Fund (PGF), we are not yet certain that Parliament or the public can have confidence that the investments made through the PGF reset will ultimately represent good value for money, did not see evidence of planning for, or commitment to, an evaluation of the outcomes. In 1948 Prime Minister Peter Fraser signed the UN's Universal Declaration of Human Rights All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights, but this Labour government has introduced laws & policy to remove equal rights: The surgical waitlist equity adjuster tool introducing racial profiling into healthcare, the eligibility for drugs funded by Pharmac, the eligibility for Medical School training and the eligibility for screening etc. Labour Kieran McAnulty on Maori special treatment: There are provisions that we have in this country that wouldn't stand up to a purely academic democratic framework but that's not how we work in New Zealand. Share this: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Reddit WhatsApp More Pinterest Print Tumblr Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. SEC Challenges Binance USs Objections in Latest Court Motion Heres What You Need to Know Changpeng Zhao, Co-founder & CEO, Binance at Centre Stage during the opening night of Web Summit 2022 at the Altice Arena in Lisbon, Portugal. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Web Summit via Sportsfile In a new development today, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has asked a court to dismiss the objections raised by Binance US regarding the regulators recent legal motion. According to CoinDesk, the SEC claimed that an audit of Binance US revealed difficulties in confirming that the company was fully backed by collateral. Binance US has countered these requests, arguing that the SEC is overstepping its jurisdiction. JUST IN: SEC says Binance US audit found it "very difficult to ensure the company was fully collateralized." Watcher.Guru (@WatcherGuru) September 18, 2023 The Points of Contention Between Binance US and the SEC Binance US argued that the SECs demands are too broad and fall outside the scope of their authority. Specifically, they claimed that the SEC was asking for documents and information that were not within its control and were better suited for other parties. BAM objects to the Requests to the extent that they are vague, ambiguous, overbroad, lacking in particularity or oppressive and/or call for information or documents beyond the relevant scope of or disproportionate to the needs of the Consent Order, as well as on the grounds that they are unduly burdensome because they would impose a significant expense and inconvenience on BAM. Binance US stated in todays court filing. Not surprisingbut not smart. This does not end well for #Binance But the "real market" for #crypto will be better off in the end. Ian Simpson (@ian_simpson80) September 18, 2023 The SEC initially filed a lawsuit against Binance in June. The lawsuit also implicates Binance Holdings, the global parent company of Binance US, and its founder Changpeng CZ Zhao. The central allegation is that they operated an unlicensed securities exchange. SECs Accusations Regarding Asset Custody The SEC is not pulling any punches in its critique of Binance USs asset management. They are asking the court to disregard Binance USs objections to their motions for depositions, inspections, and communication from the exchange. The SEC has even gone so far as to call the companys asset custody shaky. In todays court filing, the SEC has asked a D.C. court to allow an inspection into Binance US. The regulator asserted that Binance US has not provided all the necessary documents for ongoing legal procedures, reinforcing the SECs position that an inspection of Binance US is urgently needed. Is Binance US Safe? The SEC has expressed concerns about Ceffu, a service that was rebranded earlier this year from Binance Custody. According to the SEC, Ceffu might be facilitating the transfer of U.S. customer funds out of the country, which would be a breach of a prior agreement. The SEC stated in its filing: The SEC seeks an order compelling BAM to produce documents and communications concerning any entity providing it wallet custody software and related services. The filing also accuses Binance US of providing inconsistent representations about key facts, slow-rolled small productions of documents and information, and stonewalled on entire categories of information that would likely shed light on its shaky assertions concerning the custody of customer assets. They label Zhao as an individual who views himself outside the jurisdiction of any court. The SEC is looking to compel Binance US to furnish depositions, communications, and other relevant information for inspection. Failure to comply could lead to penalties for the crypto exchange. Given these recent developments, the topic of crypto regulation is becoming more prominent. The tensions between the SEC and Binance US reflect broader concerns about the extent of oversight needed in the rapidly growing world of cryptocurrency. Taiwan Calls El Salvador Authorities to Establish Virtual Assets Bureau For Enhanced Crypto Regulations Source: Pixabay Taiwans Crypto Association has established talks with the El Salvador authorities the Central Bank, the Virtual Assets Bureau, and the Presidential Palace calling for enhanced crypto regulations. According to a Wu Blockchain report, Taiwan regulators have communicated with El Salvadors authorities, toward establishing a new Virtual Assets Bureau to ensure supervision capacity. The Taiwan Cryptocurrency Association stated that it has established formal communication channels with the El Salvador Virtual Assets Bureau, the Central Bank, and the Presidential Office, and called for the establishment of Virtual Assets Bureau to ensure regulatory Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) September 18, 2023 The collaboration would promote the normalization of the industry, call for the expansion of the scope of money laundering prevention statements, reduce grey area, illegal operators and allow those willing to comply with regulations to officially enter the industry, the translated statement read. The proposal of a Virtual Assets Bureau was made during a public hearing organized by Taiwanese legislator Kuo Kuo-wen on September 7. The meeting primarily discussed whether to establish a special unit Financial Technology Bureau for crypto industry supervision. Representatives from crypto exchanges Binance and Bitfinex attended the meeting. The Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC), Taiwans financial regulator, noted that the existing crypto regulatory framework excludes stablecoin issuance because it involves legal currency supply issues, the report further said. According to a CNA report, Taiwan will introduce its virtual asset service provider (VASP) guidelines by the end of September and the regulator will oversee digital assets, establish regulatory frameworks to combat money laundering, and ensure compliance among crypto businesses and exchanges. Perspectives The public meeting saw representatives from various departments talk about the importance of regulations at a time when Taiwans cryptocurrency landscape is evolving. For instance, You Liling, Section Chief of the Procuratorial Department of the Ministry of Justice stressed on the importance of detecting fraud. At present, we are actively cooperating with the Police Department to combat fraud, which is particularly serious for individual currency dealers and small-scale operators. A representative from Taiwans Police Department, Lin Mingjun, noted that anti-money laundering regulations should be established by the administrative department first and then implemented by criminal units. Common crimes currently include fraud, money laundering, computer extortion, and physical crimes, such as kidnapping during transactions. We hope that supervision can be legalized, Mingjun added. Chen Minghui, COO of Maicoin, spoke from the industry perspective, calling for special laws to be adopted, highlighting potential operational hiccups. Meanwhile, He Xuanrong from Binance stressed that employee training should be strengthened. Employee capabilities have a great impact on transparency and market fairness, Minghui said. Siamak Namazi, Emad Shargi and Morad Tahbaz were among the Americans believed to be involved in the deal. KB Financial Group Inc. provides a range of banking and related financial services to consumers and corporations in South Korea and internationally. The company operates through seven segments: Retail Banking, Corporate Banking, Other Banking, Credit Card, Securities, Life Insurance, and Non-Life Insurance. It offers loans, deposit products, and other related financial products and services to large, small, and medium-sized enterprises, as well as individuals and households; investment banking, and brokerage and supporting services; life insurance products; non-life insurance products, including automobile, fire and allied lines, and marine insurance; bancassurance services; and credit sale, cash service, card loan, and other supporting services. The company also engages in securities and derivatives trading, funding, and other supporting activities. In addition, it offers foreign exchange transaction; financial investment; credit card and installment financing; financial leasing; real estate trust management; capital investment; collection of receivables or credit investigation; software advisory, development, and supply; investment advisory; claim; management; savings banking; information and communication; and general advisory services. The company was founded in 1963 and is headquartered in Seoul, South Korea. Fortive Corporation designs, develops, manufactures, markets, and services professional and engineered products, software, and services worldwide. Intelligent Operating Solutions segment provides advanced instrumentation, software and services, which includes electrical test and measurement, facility and asset lifecycle software applications, and worker safety and compliance solutions for manufacturing, process industries, healthcare, utilities and power, communications and electronics, and other industries. Additionally, it markets its products and services under the ACCRUENT, FLUKE, GORDIAN, INDUSTRIAL SCIENTIFIC, INTELEX, PRUFTECHNIK, and SERVICECHANNEL brands. Its Precision Technologies segment provides electrical test & measurement, sensing and material technologies under the ANDERSON-NEGELE, GEMS, SETRA, HENGSTLER-DYNAPAR, QUALITROL, PACIFIC SCIENTIFIC, KEITHLEY, and TEKTRONIX brands for industrial, power and energy, automotive, medical equipment, food and beverage, aerospace and defense, semiconductor, and other general industries. Advanced Healthcare Solutions segment offers critical workflow solutions including instrument sterilization, instrument tracking, design and manufacture of cell therapy equipment, biomedical test tools, radiation detection and safety monitoring, and end-to-end clinical productivity software and solutions under the ASP, CENSIS, CENSITRAC, EVOTECH, FLUKE BIOMEDICAL, INVETECH, LANDAUER, PROVATION, RAYSAFE, and STERRAD brands. The company was incorporated in 2015 and is headquartered in Everett, Washington. Manulife Financial Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides financial products and services in Asia, Canada, the United States, and internationally. The company operates through Wealth and Asset Management Businesses; Insurance and Annuity Products; and Corporate and Other segments. The Wealth and Asset Management Businesses segment offers investment advice and solutions to retirement, retail, and institutional clients through multiple distribution channels, including agents and brokers affiliated with the company, independent securities brokerage firms and financial advisors pension plan consultants, and banks. The Insurance and Annuity Products segment provides deposit and credit products; and individual life insurance, individual and group long-term care insurance, and guaranteed and partially guaranteed annuity products through multiple distribution channels, including insurance agents, brokers, banks, financial planners, and direct marketing. The Corporate and Other segment is involved in property and casualty reinsurance businesses; and run-off reinsurance operations, including variable annuities, and accident and health. The company also manages timberland and agricultural portfolios; and engages in insurance agency, investment counseling and dealer, portfolio and mutual fund management, property and casualty insurance, and mutual fund dealer businesses. Manulife Financial Corporation was incorporated in 1887 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. United States Steel Corporation produces and sells flat-rolled and tubular steel products primarily in North America and Europe. It operates through four segments: North American Flat-Rolled (Flat-Rolled), Mini Mill, U. S. Steel Europe (USSE), and Tubular Products (Tubular). The Flat-Rolled segment offers slabs, strip mill plates, sheets, and tin mill products, as well as iron ore and coke. This segment serves customers in the service center, conversion, transportation, automotive, construction, container, appliance, and electrical markets. The Mini Mill segment provides hot-rolled, cold-rolled, and coated sheets and electrical products. This segment serves customers in the automotive, appliance, construction, container, transportation, and service center markets. The USSE segment provides slabs, strip mill plates, sheets, tin mill products, and spiral welded pipes. This segment serves customers in the construction, container, appliance and electrical, service center, conversion, oil, gas, and petrochemical markets. The Tubular segment offers seamless and electric resistance welded steel casing and tubing products, as well as standard and line pipe and mechanical tubing products primarily to customers in the oil, gas, and petrochemical markets. The company also engages in the real estate business. United States Steel Corporation was founded in 1901 and is headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. For the third time in less than eight months, a special election will decide control of the narrowly divided Pennsylvania House of Representatives and provide political reinforcements to either the commonwealth's Democratic governor or its Republican-controlled Senate. On Tuesday, voters in the heavily Democratic 21st legislative district will choose a replacement for former state Rep. Sara Innamorato, who stepped down in July to focus on her bid to be Allegheny County's next county executive. Her resignation bumped Democrats from a one-vote majority in the chamber to a 101-101 tie with Republicans. The Democratic nominee is Lindsay Powell, director of Workforce Strategies for InnovatePGH, an economic development nonprofit, and a former aide to U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and former Pittsburgh Mayor William Peduto. She faces GOP nominee Erin Connolly Autenreith, a real estate agent and chairwoman of the Shaler Township Republican Committee. Her father, Thomas Connolly, served as mayor of nearby McKees Rocks in the 1980s. The winner will complete the remainder of Innamorato's two-year term and be up for reelection in November 2024. District 21 is in the heart of Allegheny County in southwestern Pennsylvania and includes parts of Pittsburgh as well as the suburbs of Etna, Millvale, Reserve and Shaler to the north. Innamorato won the district in 2022 with 63% of the vote. Allegheny County has Pennsylvania's second-largest population and votes reliably Democratic, supporting Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden in the last two presidential elections with 57% and 60% of the vote, respectively. U.S. Sen. John Fetterman received 63% of the county vote in 2022 over Republican nominee Dr. Mehmet Oz. In the 2022 midterm election, Democrats won a majority in the Pennsylvania House for the first time since 2010, but Republicans occupied more seats by the time the term began in January because of three vacancies that were created after the election. Two Democratic members resigned to assume other offices lieutenant governor and U.S. representative while a third died before Election Day and was reelected posthumously. Democrats regained their numerical majority in February after winning special elections to fill the three vacancies. Two additional vacancies, one by a Republican who was elected to the state Senate and another by a Democrat who resigned amid sexual harassment allegations, forced another round of special elections in May that would once again determine control of the House. Those elections resulted in the 102-101 Democratic edge that stood until Innamorato's resignation in July. Yet another special election that could determine control of the Pennsylvania House may be in the works early next year if Democratic state Rep. John Galloway is elected to a district judgeship in November, as expected. The House is scheduled to reconvene on Sept. 26. Here's a look at what to expect on election night: Election Day The special election for Pennsylvania state House District 21 will be held on Tuesday. Polls close at 8 p.m. ET. Who gets to vote? Voters must be registered in House District 21 to participate in the special election. The deadline to register was Sept. 5. Decision notes Under its current boundaries, District 21 heavily favors Democrats. Innamorato won the 2022 general election with 63% of the vote. She performed best in the southern half of the district, which includes parts of Pittsburgh, where she dominated most of the city's 6th, 9th, and 10th wards with between 80% and 89% of the vote. The Republican that year, Frank Perman, carried only 16 of the district's 79 wards, all of them in Shaler Township. This year, Autenreith would have to outperform the 50%-59% Perman scored in the eastern and western parts of Shaler, as well as cut into the Democratic lead in the rest of the township, which is conceivable considering she is the local Republican committee chairwoman. But to win, she would also have to force Powell to underperform in Pittsburgh and neighboring wards, which is a tall order considering the area's voting history. The AP does not make projections and will declare a winner only when it's determined there is no scenario that would allow the trailing candidate to close the gap. If a race has not been called, the AP will continue to cover any newsworthy developments, such as candidate concessions or declarations of victory. In doing so, the AP will make clear that it has not yet declared a winner and explain why. Pennsylvania has automatic recounts in statewide races if the margin between the top two candidates is 0.5 percentage points or less. In district races, Pennsylvania law allows recounts if three voters in the district request and pay for the recount, regardless of the winning margin. The AP may declare a winner in a race that is eligible for a recount if it can determine the lead is too large for a recount or legal challenge to change the outcome. What do turnout and advance vote look like? As of Monday, there were 47,682 voters registered in Pennsylvania's House District 21, according to the Pennsylvania Department of State's website. Of those, 59% are Democrats, 26% are Republicans and 11% are not affiliated with any party. The AP's preliminary turnout estimate as of Thursday is 16,000 votes, based on the results of previous contests in the district as well as those of other Pennsylvania House special elections this year in comparison to the turnout in those districts in the 2022 general election. In the 2022 general election, 27% of ballots were cast before Election Day. The Democratic incumbent won 84% of those advance votes. As of Thursday morning, 3,600 ballots had been cast, with 82% by registered Democrats and 12% by registered Republicans. How long does vote-counting usually take? In the 2022 general election in District 21, the AP first reported results at 8:39 p.m. ET, or 39 minutes after polls closed. The election night tabulation ended at 10:33 p.m. ET with about 98% of total votes counted. A fisheries market in Seoul is seen in this Aug. 24 photo. Korea Times photo by Choi Ju-yeon Korean imports of Japanese seafood fell for the fifth consecutive month in August on concerns over Japan's release of treated radioactive water. Seoul imported $7.81 million worth of fishery products from the neighboring country last month, down 34.8 percent from a year earlier, according to the data from the Korea Customs Service. August posted the largest on-year decline this year, and last month's import value was the smallest monthly figure in two years. In terms of volume, Japanese seafood imports stood at some 1,622 tons in August, 24.9 percent lower than a year earlier. Senyo Ador Wangari Muchiri By Senyo Ador and Wangari Muchiri BERWYN, ILLINOIS/NAIROBI African leaders and global policymakers recently gathered in Nairobi, Kenya, for the inaugural Africa Climate Summit to discuss the challenges of funding climate solutions. The summit showed that private-sector investments, in particular, could go a long way toward accelerating the continent's energy transition. Efforts are already underway to attract more foreign capital, especially from the United States. When U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris visited Ghana, Tanzania, and Zambia earlier this year, she announced nearly 30 private-sector and philanthropic commitments to support climate resilience, adaptation, and mitigation across Africa. But the continent's needs are far from being met. An estimated $700 billion will be required to develop green energy in Africa, and yet it received only 2% of the $2.8 trillion invested globally in renewables between 2000 and 2020. The main barrier to increasing green financing is risk perception: many private-sector actors are concerned about Africa's investment climate. It is no secret that many African countries are contending with inadequate infrastructure and bureaucratic red tape, both of which could deter foreign investors. But these countries are also working to remove such obstacles. Kenya, for example, is in the process of pursuing structural reforms to enhance private-financing mechanisms. Moreover, the economic mismanagement and internal strife that have come to characterize some African countries are not representative of the entire continent. Africa is open for business. Countries such as Morocco and Kenya, in their efforts to spur the green transition and drive sustainable development, have introduced financial incentives, including tax breaks, and implemented policy reforms to attract and mitigate risk for private investors from the U.S. and elsewhere. Perhaps more importantly, Africa's energy sector has already put itself on the path toward a carbon-free future, rather than waiting on foreign capital. Kenya is one of the top global producers of geothermal energy, and Morocco is home to the world's largest concentrated solar power plant. Next year, Egypt is set to build a wind farm that could generate enough electricity to meet domestic needs and export to Europe and Saudi Arabia. Alongside large-scale projects, numerous privately funded micro-grids are supplying much-needed power to hospitals and even entire villages. Many of these renewable projects have been funded by both the public and private sectors, although investment from the former tends to be higher. Africa's success in creating clean-energy markets, despite relatively low levels of foreign private investment, is a testament to local officials' dedication to building a more sustainable future. With an abundance of solar, wind, geothermal, and hydro energy resources, Africa has immense investment potential and can offer reliable returns to private investors. And many African countries are eager to create the conditions that will allow investors to tap into their clean-energy markets. For example, in Namibia, which averages 300 days of sunshine per year, the state-owned power utility attracted foreign capital by authorizing independent power projects and holding solar-energy auctions at competitive rates. Scaling up clean-energy investments in African countries will bring additional benefits, including more sustainable economies and faster progress toward development goals. The biggest benefit, though, is that clean energy addresses the root cause of climate change: burning fossil fuels. Africa is bearing the brunt of the crisis, despite accounting for the smallest share of global greenhouse-gas emissions. As a result, by 2050, global warming could cost the continent $50 billion annually. It would be wiser to invest in renewables today, rather than pouring billions into adaptation down the line. Until private investors recognize Africa's abundant renewable-energy potential, funding will continue to pour into oil and gas. Expensive fossil-fuel assets would serve only to increase African economies' dependency on volatile energy prices and imports and accelerate global warming. There is another option: over the past decade, African countries have created sustainable and efficient clean-energy markets that protect investors and drive development on the continent's terms. Private investors in the U.S. and elsewhere should take advantage of this momentum to capitalize on the growth potential of renewables, expedite the green transition, and create a healthier future for all. Senyo Ador is co-Founder and CEO of Sesenergi Eco Solution Enterprises, an Illinois-based clean-energy company. Wangari Muchiri is director of Africa WindPower at the Global Wind Energy Council. This was distributed by Project Syndicate (www.project-syndicate.org). Thank you for reading! Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue. It is only the second week of September, but the battle of solo artists is becoming more intense with these music releases and comebacks! Which album or song is your favorite so far? Here Are Most Popular Releases & Comeback in 2nd Week of September: Lee Chaeyeon - 'LET'S DANCE' On September 6th, the "New-Gen K-pop Diva" Lee Chaeyeon returned to the music industry with her first single album, "The Move: Street." The lead single, "LET'S DANCE," is a dance track that combines the Moombahton and house genres. It aims to deliver a positive message to dance together anywhere. This album was her first release after the success of her second mini-album, "Over the Moon," thanks to the popularity of its title track, "KNOCK" released in April. MAMAMOO HWASA - 'I Love My Body' Along with Chaeyeon, Hwasa also dropped her latest digital single, "I Love My Body," on September 6. It contains the powerful message to love and cherish one's natural beauty and body that "don't conform with the set beauty standards." Upon its release, the song topped the iTunes top song chart in eight countries, including Cambodia, Colombia, Hungary, Jordan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia and Singapore. It also entered the top 10 in 21 countries and the top 100 in 34 countries. BIBI - 'Hongdae R&B' On the 7th, solo artist BIBI released the MV for her new song, "Hongdae R&B," following her double singles, "Hangang Gongwon." The MV was filmed directly in Hongdae Alley, which was considered the "sacred" place for the MZ generation. The video started with BIBI having high dreams and hopes until she was drawn into the dark alley. Aside from participating in the planning stage, the MV was also completed by putting BIBI's autobiographical story. BTS V - 'Layover' On September 13, BTS V dropped the music video for his song, "Blue." In the MV, the icon is seen driving with anxious eyes and following him anxiously looking for someone. Aside from the music video's profound atmosphere thanks to its black-and-white cinematography, V's passionate singing that emphasized his addictive low and deep tone made the release linger in viewers' minds for a longer time. On September 8, his first EP, "Layover," was initially released along with the "Slow Dancing" MV. On August 10th and 11th, he also pre-released songs, "Love Me Again" and "Rainy Days," respectively. EXO D.O. - 'I Do' On September 8, EXO D.O. unveiled his pre-release song, "I Do," ahead of his official comeback with his second mini-album, "Expectation," on the 18th! "I Do," is an acoustic pop song that depicts a lovely scene on a night of meteor showers, hoping that the opponent will answer the same, wishing to be with the person next to him forever. It garnered attention after it was revealed that the MV is an extension of the music video of D.O.'s "That's Okay," which was initially dropped in July 2019. SHINee Key - 'Good & Great' On September 11, "All-Rounder Cheat Key" SHINee Key made his much-awaited solo comeback with his second mini-album, "Good & Great." Upon its release, it topped the iTunes Top Album Chart in 34 regions around the world, as well as the Yes24 daily major domestic album chart. The title track with the same name is particularly drawing much attention from workers for evoking sympathy through its easy-to-follow melody and witty lyrics, such as, "I'm good, I'm great, I work, get paid // Thank God, all day, I love it, I'm epic," and, "On days when I'm having a hard time // Again, believe that I'm chosen." For more K-Pop news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KpopStarz. KpopStarz owns this article. Written by Eunice Dawson. September is just starting, but K-pop groups are already making waves with their current activities and music releases. Given the busy nature of K-pop groups, their exposure can only lead to buzz and attention from various fandoms or news outlets. The Korean Business Research Institute officially revealed the newest brand reputation rankings for September 2023 involving K-pop girl groups. According to sources, data was gathered from August 10 to September 10. Here are 12 most popular K-pop girl groups in September 2023! 1. NewJeans For the third consecutive month, NewJeans reigned supreme on the list with a brand reputation index of 7,674,756 and a result of 89.82 percent positive reactions for their positivity-negativity analysis. With their global presence and activeness, the group has shown no signs of slowing down on their skyrocketing success. 2. BLACKPINK BLACKPINK followed second place due to a 6.39 percent score rise, leading to a brand reputation index of 4,475,378. Apart from being active as a group in their concerts, the girls have also made buzz with their solo schedules. 3. NMIXX On No. 3, NMIXX received a brand reputation index of 3,493,470 for September. The group also met an impressive 111.26 percent score rise, highlighting their ongoing presence across the K-pop community and international audiences. 4. IVE IVE made it on fourth place with a 6.23 percent score increase and a brand reputation index of 3,421,212. The girls have also gained attention due to their comeback announcement for upcoming mini album "I've Mine." 5. LE SSERAFIM LE SSERAFIM made it into the top five with a brand reputation index of 3,329,951. 6. TWICE On the sixth place, TWICE made it on the spot with a brand reputation index of 2,841,560. 7. OH MY GIRL OH MY GIRL grabbed an index of 2,455,208 for their September brand reputation rankings. 8. (G)I-DLE (G)I-DLE made it on No. 8 with a brand reputation index of 2,302,809. 9. aespa aespa has also gained traction in September due to their concerts for "SYNK: Hyper Line." The group received an index of 1,934,323. 10. H1-KEY H1-KEY made it on the top 10 with an index of 1,728,168. 11. STAYC STAYC made it on the list with a brand reputation index of 1,626,392. This is due to their gradual expansion through numerous performances, appearances, activities, and many more. The girls will also be having their first-ever world tour "TEENFRESH" this September. 12. ITZY ITZY claimed No. 12 with an index of 1,592,093. See the full list below: 1. NewJeans 2. BLACKPINK 3. NMIXX 4. IVE 5. LE SSERAFIM 6. TWICE 7. OH MY GIRL 8. (G)I-DLE 9. aespa 10. H1-KEY 11. STAYC 12. ITZY 13. Girls' Generation 14. Red Velvet 15. MAMAMOO 16. Apink 17. WJSN 18. fromis_9 19. Girl's Day 20. APRIL 21. Dreamcatcher 22. woo!ah! 23. Ladies' Code 24. tripleS 25. cignature 26. LOONA 27. Kep1er 28. CLASS:y 29. LABOUM 30. EVERGLOW Which K-pop girl groups on the list are your favorites? Do you have an ult group among them? Let us know in the comments below! Read KpopStarz for more K-pop news. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: 10 K-Pop Girl Groups With Three or More Visual Members: BLACKPINK, TWICE, More KpopStarz owns this article Written by Riely Miller After publicly dating Yang Jae Woong, EXID Hani revealed that she's planning to give birth and become a mother someday. Is she finally going to get married with boyfriend? EXID Hani Confesses That One Thing on Her Bucket List She's Yet To Check Is Becoming Mother In a recent interview with MBC, EXID Hani shared the wish she has on her bucket list that she is yet to achieve. On September 17, the broadcast channel met the idol at the MBC office building in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul to talk about her appearance in the liberal arts program, "Those Who Cross the Line The Collection." ALSO READ: EXID Hani Net Worth: How Rich is the 'Up & Down' Hitmaker? On this day, the idol-turned-actress talked mostly about the show and her passion to learn about new things by "crossing the line." As a result, when Hani was asked if there is any "line" that she hasn't crossed yet, she responded that it was giving birth. "One thing on my bucket list that I've written since I was young was childbirth. I haven't crossed that line yet. I have a tremendous expectation at the same time fear of being a mother." She explained: "It's not something that I'll have to worry right now, but I think it'll be a concern that will remain for a very long time." EXID Hani on Dating Yang Jae Woong Are They Planning To Get Married Soon? Meanwhile, Hani (31) is currently and still dating her boyfriend Yang Jae Woong (41). The two started publicly dating after Hani's agency SUBLIME confirmed in June 2022 that the idol actress is seeing pyschiatrist and entertainer Yang Jae Woong. When the news spread, the couple received positive comments from fans and netizens and earned congratulatory messages. Since then, the couple maintained a low-key relationship until in March 2023, Hani shared her photo with her father and boyfriend for the first time since they confirmed their romantic relationship. At the time, marriage rumor arose after netizens and fans noticed that Yang has a rather relaxed and comfortable aura with Hani's father, people then guessing that they might have met each other multiple times. Rather than being careful like before, Hani is also showing confidence when conveying her affection with Yang, such as attesting people that it is okay to talk about him. On the episode of MBC's "Those Who Cross the Line The Collection," Jun Hyun Moo was a little bit careful to asked about Hani's boyfriend, but in response, she said: "Why are you being so cautious? Now, I can express my affection for Yang Jae Woong by writing like 'Cheer up' message on a post-it notes." In another broadcast, Hani also confessed: "I had a public relationship with the person I used to date in the past (JYJ Junsu) and I'm now seeing someone which also become a public relationship (Yang Jae Woong)." READ MORE: EXID Hani Dating History: Here's How the 'Up & Down" Singer's Relationship with JYJ Junsu Started and Ended For more K-Pop news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KpopStarz. KpopStarz owns this article. Written by Eunice Dawson. Elnur Enveroglu In order to get updated of the latest situation in Armenia and Garabagh, where the separatist forces are still located, it is no longer necessary to search for the Armenian press. The Senate of the United States of America has almost become the daily newspaper of Armenia giving fresh tiding; whatever the situation is inside, the same atmosphere exists in the Senate. There is only one issue that the voices from the Senate are more excited and more aggressive than those from Yerevan. For example, Senator Robert or simply Bob Menendez, a 69-year-old American politician, is so excited every time he stands in front of the tribune talking about Armenia that he almost drowns in his own sweat. Bob is so pro-Armenian that he would almost give the whole world a gift for Armenia. But Menendez has one thing missing; it's that he himself can't understand anything from what he's talking about. Indeed, the old senate has become so emotional that sometimes he believes the lies he tells himself. Menendez's commitment to Armenians is as strong as Caroline Cox's in the British Parliament. In other words, Armenian blood was injected into the blood of both old armenophiles. The only difference between the two characters is that Menendez is a bit greedy, that is, avid for money. Bob Menendez also had an interesting story in 2015 about his corruption issue in the court just because of being apt to receive bribe. The senator, who is easily lured by money or some gifts, repeatedly poked his nose into an issue he did not know deeply due to the money invested in his account from the Armenian lobbies. The fact that the senator, who has never put a step in Garabagh and has a simple understanding of the Caucasus region, presented false images to the Foreign Relations Committee just for the sake of his pre-paid work, is a clear proof of all that has been said. Although Menendez is a lawyer, he does not know the secrets of his position. Of course, without knowing the region, how can making claims from thousands of kilometers away help lobbyists pouring millions into the pockets of the corruptionists like Menendez? He just wins, because his mission is just to care about his account but not Armenians even if he vehemently shouts out words of sanctions. Who cares though? Because even though he doesn't know anything about Garabagh, he still knows this business very well. Thus, the situation in the United States does not directly express Washington's position towards Azerbaijan. On the contrary, the United States tries to find a way out of such a situation at many points. First of all, the United States will never want to lose Azerbaijan, which is one of the most reliable allies of the West, and cannot directly pressure Azerbaijan even on the most critical issues related to Armenia. The final situation was actually a momentary sabotage plan from the armenianized US Senate aimed at the South Caucasus. Currently, the situation in the US Senate is complicated. Because Yerevan and the forces working to feed the separatists have put such a leash on the neck of people like Menendez that neither the US State Department nor the White House can speak out. However, unlike them, Azerbaijan can always say its word. Because the international laws written by the West are supreme for Azerbaijan, even if they are worth the bribes they receive. No matter how hard people like Robert Menendez try to impose tough sanctions against Azerbaijan and its leadership, in the end, Azerbaijan gets what it wants. And as it happened... Although the Aghdam-Khankendi road was blocked by the separatists for a long time, in the end it was not what they wanted, but what Azerbaijan wanted. First, they wanted to create an illusion, ostensibly there was a starvation and humanitarian crisis in Khankendi. All Armenian and pro-Armenian media outlets circulated the fabricated pictures and a term of "genocide", the one which Menendez tried to fake at the tribune. Besides, the local residents said on social networks that the leaders of the separatist gang took away products brought by the ICRC or the Russian Peacekeepers to aggravate the situation further. However, it did not work and first, the separatists were obliged to step back and release extra meat products in Khankendi on August 20. According to the so-called statement, on September 17 they were obliged to step back a second time against internal pressure. The regime accepts that it is not always possible to provide the daily 200 grams of bread available to a citizen under the coupon system. In general, there is only one option for separatist and lobbyists in Garabagh, Yerevan, or the Senate: to take action according to the demands and conditions of Azerbaijan. In fact, all these processes could have been resolved a long time ago. It is a fact that earlier, an agreement on the simultaneous opening of these was reached on September 1. The separatists expediently delayed this process. Despite all their fruitless efforts, Azerbaijan's principled position once again prevailed. Now there is a priority for them - to end the resistance, not to rely on empty words from the US Senate and, finally, to take steps for reintegration. Because this is the only way out for the Armenian minority in Garabagh. Consumer advocate was just one of the many hats that Carlisle native James W. Sullivan wore during his lifetime. As a teenager, he was an eyewitness to his hometown being invaded by the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia in late June 1863. Over time, Sullivan became a printer, a newspaper editor, an author, a world traveler and a bureau chief for the Council of National Defense during World War I. Sullivan would cross the Atlantic Ocean 26 times by sea. For 15 of those trips, he was paid a salary and had all expenses paid. The other voyages were made on his own initiative to study conditions abroad. He and his wife lived 18 years in Europe and North Africa. In 1917, President Woodrow Wilson appointed Sullivan to a committee tasked with recommending a price per bushel for that years wheat crop on or before a Sept. 1 deadline. Lobbyists for American farmers wanted the price fixed at between $2.50 to $2.75 while Sullivan pressed for a low of $1.84 on behalf of consumers, The Sentinel reported. A compromise price of $2.20 was reached after weeks of discussions. It was estimated that this saved the American consumer about $31 million, according to the newspaper. Being on the committee was momentous at the time. In the lead-up to the compromise, the Wilson administration issued a series of executive orders giving the federal government greater power to supervise the distribution of wheat and the manufacture and sale of flour. The changes included the elimination of buying agencies at the principal terminals, the licensing of grain elevators and mills, the regulation of exchanges and the fixing of fair prices, The Sentinel reported on Aug. 14, 1917. Wheat and flour are taken up first because the wheat crop is beginning to move, making it the most difficult problem to handle now. In early June, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, in its annual forecast, predicted a nationwide wheat crop of about 656 million bushels. Four months later, in early October, The Sentinel reported that the national yield was about 659.8 million bushels. Of that, Pennsylvania farmers harvested a crop of 26.36 million bushels in 1917 compared to 25.68 million the prior year. On Oct. 18, 1917, The Sentinel reported that Cumberland County was fifth in wheat production that year with a yield of 1.23 million bushels compared to 1.12 million bushels in 1916. Lancaster County was number one in wheat production followed by York, Franklin and Berks counties. With its yield, Cumberland County edged out both Chester and Adams counties. Sullivan returned to Carlisle in 1934 to live out his few remaining years in his hometown. He died on Sept. 27, 1938, at age 91 and is buried in the Old Graveyard on East South Street in Carlisle. Tour Through Time runs periodically in The Sentinel print edition. Reporter Joseph Cress will work with the Cumberland County Historical Society each month to look at the county through the years. Send any questions, feature ideas or tips to jcress@cumberlink.com. The Charlottesville Pride Festival on Sunday brought out hundreds to Ix Art Park in the city, displaying a rainbow of genders, ethnicities and sexual orientations in celebration of the communitys diversity. Its always been a source of pride that we accept everyone as they are, Albemarle Supervisor Bea LaPisto-Kirtley told The Daily Progress as she took a break from chatting with a silver-haired male couple. Although a light rain dampened its last two hours and a gaggle of drag queens on stage event organizer and acting President of the Charlottesville Pride Network Nick Morrow, sporting a rainbow ascot, seemed undaunted. Its raining a little bit, Morrow told The Daily Progress. Its fine. Nearby children clambered over the parks bronze elephants, a boy threw a Frisbee and a mother breast-fed her child. Its been really great to see everyone out here, said Morrow. People of all ages. Like Morrow and many others, the mother-child duo of Conni LeFon and Rhenn LeFon were sporting some rainbow gear of their own. The proud mother said she used a Cricut vinyl cutter to make the Token Straight Friend T-shirt she was wearing. I am here to support my child, and I am so proud that they have grown to be into the awesome child that they are, she told The Daily Progress. They have made me a better person by showing me just how rich and wonderful life is when you dont have a narrow point of view. Ivy-based Klaus Evirytt attended the festival selling a variety of goods at his Detritus stand, including $3 dandelion sticker, which he said carried a special meaning. I admire dandelions because you will find them growing anywhere that they absolutely can: in the middle of concrete, sidewalks, wherever, Evirytt told The Daily Progress. You need a lot of resiliency to be a trans person out in the world. It wasnt just the 54 tented vendors doing a brisk trade. It was madness this morning, North American Sake Brewery manager Robyn Wetherhorn told The Daily Progress. She said the restaurant was coping with the recent news that Ix Art Park would trim its event schedule next year due to budget woes. Were taking it in stride, said Wetherhorn. Well miss them being able to do quite as much, but hopefully they can get back on it soon. Two teenage girls were dressed in the familiar khaki uniform of the group long known as the Boy Scouts; they are members of the new all-girl Troop 3125 of Scouts BSA in Ivy. Were here to show that scouting is more open now, said Emerson Ter Borg. Its more inclusive now to people other than boys, said troop-mate Sophia Baker. Nearby, Zach Levy was offering voter registration and said the Cville Dems had a big day at this same location 24 hours earlier when it played host to its regular Saturday farmers market. Yesterday, we broke our record, said Levy. Twenty-nine people. In an election year in a state where the governor recently issued policies directing public school students to use facilities that match their biological sex and restricted nickname and pronoun choices, it is perhaps unsurprising several progressive politicians took the stage at Pride. They included Democratic contender in the 55th Virginia House District Amy Laufer. This is such a fun community event, Laufer told the Daily Progress, as a folk group sang Shady Grove, a bluegrass standard. It really brings out so many folks. And when you think about it politically, she continued, its about making sure the governor and his administration dont put in any more restrictions. Two candidates for Albemarle County School Board took shots against their opponents at a Wednesday forum. It helped that neither of those opponents showed up. Rebecca Berlin and Allison Spillman took questions from a crowd of roughly 30 people gathered at Westminster Canterbury of the Blue Ridge on Pantops at the forum hosted by the Senior Statesmen of Virginia. The pair found themselves in agreement throughout the hourlong event. Their more conservative opponents may have done the same, but they declined the invitation. Meg Bryce is running against Spillman for the at-large seat on the board. Bryce is a part-time University of Virginia psychology professor and daughter of late Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia who sends her children to private school, while Spillman is a former parent teacher organization leader with five children in Albemarle public schools. Joann McDermid is contesting the White Hall District seat, which Berlin has held since since 2022 when she was appointed to fill the vacancy left by the resignation of Dave Oberg. McDermid is a Canadian-born independent research and academic consultant, while Berlin is the former chief learning officer at Start Early, a nonprofit public-private partnership advancing early learning and care for families with children. It is not clear why Bryce and McDermid chose not to attend, neither provided an explanation. With neither of their rivals present, Berlin and Spillman cast them both as members of the radical right. A very real threat is being waged against public schools, Spillman said. My opponent is one of those people thats threatening our safety and our freedoms. Theyre looking to ban books and whitewash history. And our families and our teachers deserve somebody thats willing to stand up against that, she said. Berlin claimed that she put her name forward to join the school board after watching races in Loudoun and Spotsylvania counties. Radical right conservatives took over both of those school boards and really turned those towns upside down, Berlin said. They limited the books that children were able to read. On Monday, all four candidates spoke at a Crozet town hall. Berlin and Spillman hugged afterwards, as did Bryce and McDermid. Two days later, the two progressive candidates remained friendly, often commending each other and aligning on most issues. The pair took a number of questions from the older audience in attendance. Berlin frequently emphasized the importance of students mental and emotional well-being. To solve the issue of chronic absenteeism, Berlin said that schools must address mental health. Having students feel safe and having a counselor and administrator that supports them and understands them is the first line of defense against chronic absenteeism, Berlin said. Multiple times throughout the event, Spillman noted that while her five children attend Albemarle County Public Schools, Bryces children do not. I think its really important that we understand the value of public education in society and have somebody thats willing to fight to maintain it, and not put our kids in private school like my opponent does, Spillman said. One woman in the audience asked what the county can do to receive more public school funding from the state. Spillman offered a suggestion while also taking a dig at her opponent. Electing officials on the school board who are not in favor of diverting funds to private school vouchers. My opponent is in favor of doing that, she said. Diverting money sets a dangerous precedent because the county does not get a lot of money from Richmond, Spillman argued, so what money it does receive must be spent wisely. Taking that money away and putting it so that you can send your kids to private school like she does is not being a good steward of taxpayer dollars, Spillman said. So for me personally, its electing people that are committed to our public education system that do not have an ulterior motive, and then really advocating to your legislators that they need to be fighting to fully fund our schools. Spillman took an opportunity to draw another contrast between her and her opponent when an audience member asked how the county can retain bus drivers and teachers. Spillman and Berlin are both in favor of collective bargaining for teachers. Bus drivers, teachers and school staff deserve to be paid a living wage, Spillman argued. Its really hard to attract teachers when were not paying them. Theyre getting masters degrees, and they can make more money doing something way less stressful, Spillman said. Teachers, she said, need professional development to help them grow in their careers. They want to learn more. They want to be constantly learning for their kids. And all of that can be found with a collective bargaining agreement, Spillman said. Perhaps both Bryce and McDermid would have liked to defend themselves from the attacks, but conservative candidates sometimes choose not to attend Senior Statesmen forums. Madison Cummings served on the organizations board in the past. We found it very, very frustrating when we would ask Rob Bell, Matt Fariss and others on the Republican side, usually, who would turn us down when we asked them to come here, Cummings told The Daily Progress after the substantive but subdued event, adding that the Senior Statesmen of Virginia is a nonpartisan organization. I just dont get when youre afraid that your point of view and principles are so narrow that youre unwilling to come share them, Cummings, who readily identified as a Democrat, said. Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], September 18 (ANI): Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday passed a resolution in the State Assembly to demand from the Union government to announce the Disaster hit Himachal Pradesh as a National Disaster whereas the opposition has brought the adjournment motion under rule 67 for discussion on the disaster situation in the state. Both the ruling Congress and Opposition BJP held Legislative party meetings. A total of seven meetings will be held in the session till September 25. Also Read | Jammu and Kashmir: Terrorist Attack on CRPF Vehicle in Srinagar Repelled. In the monsoon session of the Himachal Pradesh Assembly which started in Shimla here on Monday, a total of 743 questions were received by the Assembly secretariat in the session. Out of which 70 per cent of questions were related to the disaster. One notice under Rule 62, 2 notices under Rule 101, 9 notices under Rule 130, one notice under Rule 102, and 1 notice under Rule 324 have been received. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu appealed to the opposition to bring issues related to disaster and funds from the Union government during the assembly. He also thanked the Congress Working Committee. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi's Tenure Marked by Minimum Non-Customary Interventions in Parliament, Says Congress Leader Jairam Ramesh. "We want the Opposition to bring the issues in the assembly instead of bringing the issues in public and media for headlines. We want the Opposition should also tell us what help has been made by the Union government to disaster-hit state. I also appeal that they should not walk out instead they should grab the opportunity they have to speak in the assembly.," Said the Chief Minister. Sukhu also thanked the Congress working committee for passing a resolution to demand from Union government to announce the Disaster hit Himachal Pradesh as a National Disaster. "I am thankful to the CWC that they have passed a resolution to take up the matter with the Union government to announce the disaster in Himachal Pradesh as a National Disaster. We have already announced it as a state disaster and hope the union government will announce it as a National Disaster," Sukhu added On being asked about the white paper to be brought by the state government on the financial mismanagement by the previous BJP government, Sukhu said that under the Chairmanship of Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, a committee was constituted and they have submitted a report to the government. He said that the report would be examined and further action would be decided to bring it to the assembly. The Congress legislators are also happy that the monsoon session would be important to discuss the disaster issue in the state. Kuldeep Singh Rathore Congress legislator who had also demanded a special session of the Assembly on disaster said that it would bring the real picture of the disaster situation in the state. Congress legislators are also demanding the decongestion of the State capital, Shimla. Kuldeep Singh Rathore said that the session of Assembly is important and they have taken up the issue with the Chief Minister and also to shift the district hospital to Theog from Shimla. He said this would minimize the rush and also provide health facilities to the people in Theog. He said most of the legislators want the decongestion of Shimla city. The opposition has brought the adjournment motion under rule 67 for discussion on the disaster situation in the state. "We have manded an adjournment motion under rule 67 in the assembly and we are hopeful that this would be heard as an important issue instead they come up with another resolution in the assembly. We want to take up the serious issue of disaster where over 400 people have died in the state. We expect that we will be heard and time should be given to us to discuss the important issue. We shall also know what has been done by the government on the issue," said Jai Ram Thakur. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Moscow, September 17: As North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un concluded his visit to Russia on Sunday, the standout moment of his trip was when he received five explosive drones, a reconnaissance drone and a bulletproof vest as gifts from a regional governor on his Moscow visit, according to Al Jazeera. In Vladivostok on Saturday, he met with the Russian Defence minister and viewed cutting-edge armaments, including a hypersonic missile system. Citing Russian state news agency, TASS, Al Jazeera reported that the "leader of the DPRK received five kamikaze drones and a 'Geran-25' reconnaissance drone with vertical takeoff." Russian President Vladimir Putin Accepts Kim Jong Uns Invitation To Visit North Korea. The governor of the Primorye area, which shares a border with China and North Korea, was reportedly said to have "offered Kim Jong Un a set of bulletproof protection" and "special clothing not detectable by thermal cameras." According to state-run media in Russia, Kim left the Russian Far East on Sunday by boarding an armoured train in the city of Artyom, which lies north of the port of Vladivostok, and beginning the protracted journey home. Kim was seen leaving in a video to the Russian and North Korean anthems, according to Al Jazeera. Notably, Kim spent six days in Russia and held headline-grabbing talks with President Vladimir Putin at the Vostochny spaceport. North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un Arrives in Russia Before Expected Meeting With Vladimir Putin After US Warnings of Weapons Deal. Notably, the North Korean leader, Kim Jong Un arrived in Russia on Tuesday for a closely watched summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Kim Jong Un's visit to Russia marks his first foreign trip since the COVID-19 pandemic as during the pandemic, North Korea's borders were sealed. Issuing support to Moscow in the ongoing war in Ukraine, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un told President Vladimir Putin that Russia will emerge victorious in the fight to punish the evil forces, adding that he would "always be standing with Russia, according to CNN. He praised Russia for having stood up against the hegemonic forces to defend its sovereignty and security a veiled reference to the US and the West and said he has expressed the full and unconditional support to all that Russia does in response." Kim said the Russian military and its people will inherit the shining tradition of victory and demonstrate their reputation on the front line of the military operation. North Korea's Kim was in Russia's Far East as Putin seeks to strengthen ties in the midst of Russia's protracted conflict in Ukraine, in addition to advancing his nation's military modernisation. Following their first face-to-face summit in four years, Russian President Vladimir Putin accepted an invitation from Kim Jong Un to visit North Korea, according to Al Jazeera. After more than four hours of discussions and a visit to the Vostochny Cosmodrome space centre, he extended the offer to Putin at "a convenient time" at a reception to mark the end of the day. Putin accepted the invitation with pleasure and reaffirmed his will to invariably carry forward the history and tradition of the Russia-DPRK friendship, Al Jazeera reported North Korean state news agency KCNA as saying on Thursday. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Donald Trump sat down with NBC and talked about his attempts to overturn the 2020 election, once again falsely claiming it was rigged despite all the court cases and evidence that have proven it was not. While he once again pushed several debunked claims, he did admit it was his decision to push them "It was my decision, but I listened to some people," the former president said during the "Meet the Press" interview on NBC. "I was listening to different people, and when I added it all up, the election was rigged," he added. "You know who I listen to? Myself. I saw what happened." Trump also admitted that his lawyers told him that he lost the election but then admitted that he did not listen to them because he did not respect them. "You hire them, you've never met these people, you get a recommendation, they turn out to be RINOs (Republicans in name only), or they turn out to be not so good. In many cases, I didn't respect them," he told NBC News host Kristen Welker. Trump notedly also admitted that he only listens to people whose opinions he wants to hear, saying, "But I did respect others. I respected many others that said the election was rigged." CNN noted that Special Counsel Jack Smith thinks that Trump knew that he actually lost the elections, as he had been repeatedly told that he lost and that the elections were not rigged. His own administration's personnel have publicly stated that it was not. Donald Trump Talks About January 6, Refuses To Admit How He Watched Capitol Riot Happen Welker also brought up the issue of January 6 where Trump is also facing an investigation over as part of his 2020 election overturn attempts. He was reportedly called by several allies and aides begged him to call off the attack, particularly several allies in Congress, as the Capitol Insurrection was unfolding. However, he refused to say who were the people who called him. "Why would I tell you that?" he said. Welker then pressed him about his very public silence as the violence was unfolding and also over his claims that he had made "beautiful statements" before the attack. READ MORE: Donald Trump Co-Defendant Jenna Ellis Turns On Ex-POTUS, Calls Him a 'Malignant Narcissist' According to the Associated Press, Trump's own aides at that time have stated that he sequestered himself in the room off the Oval Office and watched the riot take place. He even rewinded and watched several parts. Trump then noted that he would pardon his supporters jailed over January 6 should he win the presidency, saying, "I'm going to look at them, and I certainly might if I think it's appropriate" to pardon them. Donald Trump's NBC Interview Fact-Checked by NBC NBC, which conducted the interview with Trump, also fact-checked him soon after and debunked many of the lies that he told during "Meet the Press." He claimed that immigrants are "flooding US cities and claimed that there will be around 15 million immigrants by the time the interview ended. NBC News noted that US Border Patrol has apprehended or turned away more than 2.5 million people in 2023, debunking claims that nothing is being done about it. It was noted that Trump presented no evidence that "15 million people will cross the border this year." He also claimed that the US "gave $85 billion worth of equipment to the Taliban." However, NBC found this to be false as the Department of Defense estimated last year that the Afghan government only had more than $7.1 billion of military equipment that was funded by the US government. Trump also claimed that bacon is five times more expensive than it used to be. However, this is also false as the price of sliced bacon is only around 12% of what it used to be when he left office. READ MORE: Donald Trump Election Interference Co-Conspirators Turning on Each Other This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: 'He just said it on air': Weissmann reacts to Trump's TV confession - MSNBC Guatemala President-elect Bernardo Arevalo is standing defiant amid the government's efforts to try and derail his landslide election win last month as he says he wants to call the people of Guatemala to the streets to protest these efforts. The center-left-leaning president-elect, who came out of nowhere to win in a landslide against a heavily favored establishment opponent, sat down with the Associated Press, which noted that this was his first call to action since winning the run-off against former First Lady Sandra Torres on August 20. Even though he won the election and international observers and the country's Supreme Election Tribunal declared that there were no anomalies with his win, the attorney general's office has continued pursuing multiple investigations against him and his party, the Seed Movement. During the interview, Arevalo admitted that he has already tried "his own legal maneuvers to stop those who want to keep him from power." However, he says that he feels it is necessary to come out to the streets to support him, adding that he wants to see businesspeople, farmers, Indigenous groups, and workers all come out to reject what the Guatemala AG is doing. He noted that this protest would be against the entire system that has plagued Guatemala with corruption and not just be for himself and his party. He promised it would be for "a people that feels cheated, against a system that is trying to mock them." The Guatemala Attorney General's Office has faced some massive backlash internationally over its actions in hampering the peaceful transition of power, though it reportedly stated that it is only doing its job and following the law. Guatemala President-Elect Bernardo Arevalo Suspends Transition Amid Investigation Shortly after forces with the Guatemala AG's Office raided several locations related to the Guatemala Supreme Election Tribunal and opened ballot boxes to take pictures of the votes, Arevalo announced that he would be suspending his transition temporarily. READ MORE: Guatemala Elections: President-Elect Bernardo Arevalo Congratulated by US President Joe Biden According to Reuters, Arevalo called the prosecutor's office's investigation of his landslide win part of a coup attempt to stop him from taking power. He added that the raids, which happened last week, are "flagrant crimes of abuse of authority for electoral purposes" and that the AG's actions violated the constitution. He already informed sitting President Alejandro Giammattei that he would only resume the transition once the "necessary institutional (and) political conditions are reestablished." Guatemala Attorney General Has Been Facing Calls To Resign For Months According to Scheer Post, Attorney General Maria Consuelo Porras and the head of the Special Prosecutor's Office Against Impunity, Rafael Curruchiche, who are the ones leading the investigations against the Seed Movement, are both sanctioned by the United States over corruption. Both officials are part of the Engel List of corrupt and anti-democratic actors. People have been organizing to protest and demand the resignations of both officials since the first round of voting on June 25. In addition, a Change.org petition collected over 220,000 signatures to ask for their resignation as well. Indigenous communities in Guatemala are also protesting them, with some even threatening to block highways if Porras and Curruchiche do not resign. READ MORE: Guatemala Elections: Observers Say Political Parties and Justice System Interfered This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: Guatemalan presidential candidate Bernardo Arevalo on immigration | USA TODAY A tragic plane crash occurred in Brazil's Amazon rainforest, claiming the lives of all 14 individuals on board, as confirmed by Amazonas state Governor Wilson Lima. The Embraer PT-SOG aircraft, originating from Manaus, the Amazonas state capital, was attempting to land in adverse weather conditions, characterized by heavy rain when the accident transpired, according to local media reports. The passengers on board were Brazilian tourists en route to a fishing expedition, AP reports. Video footage shared by the Globo television network depicted the crashed plane situated on a muddy dirt track amidst lush green foliage. A group of bystanders could be seen nearby, sheltering themselves with umbrellas. The Brazilian Air Force promptly dispatched a team from Manaus Aerotaxi to collect information and preserve evidence relevant to the investigation into the crash. READ NEXT: Rep. Mary Peltola Husband Died in Alaska Plane Crash Manaus Aerotaxi Says It's Investigating the Brazil Plane Crash Manaus Aerotaxi, the airline involved, issued a statement acknowledging the accident and confirming their ongoing investigation without disclosing details regarding casualties or injuries, according to Reuters. They requested privacy for those affected and pledged to provide necessary information and updates as the investigation progressed. The Brazilian Air Force (FAB) reported that investigators from the Accident Investigation and Prevention Center (CENIPA) had been called in to commence a probe into the crash of the small aircraft, an Embraer Bandeirante, with the registration PT-SOG. Governor Lima, in an interview with O Globo newspaper, revealed that the bodies had already been removed from the aircraft and identified the victims as Brazilian tourists. He cited heavy rainfall in the region and speculated that the accident's probable cause was an error in the landing route. 12 Passengers, 2 Crews Die in Brazil Plane Crash The small propeller plane was nearing the conclusion of its 400-kilometer (248-mile) journey between Manaus, the capital of Amazonas state, and the remote jungle town of Barcelos when the incident occurred. Tragically, all 12 passengers and two crew members on board lost their lives, per BBC. Initial information suggested that the plane ran out of runway during its descent into Barcelos amid heavy rain and poor visibility, according to Amazonas state security secretary Vinicius Almeida. The aircraft in question, an EMB-110, is a twin-engine turboprop manufactured by Brazilian aircraft maker Embraer, as reported by G1, a Brazilian news site. Manaus Aerotaxi, the plane's owner, affirmed that the aircraft and its crew met all required standards for flying. Governor Wilson Lima expressed his condolences and stated that response teams had been on-site to provide necessary assistance since the crash. Barcelos is a well-known tourist destination situated in proximity to several national parks. September marks the start of the peak fishing season in Amazonas, which is renowned for its diverse species of ornamental fish, including the tucunare, also known as peacock bass. Amazonas, characterized by its vast expanse of lush rainforests, stands as a prime destination for adventure travelers, Al Jazeera noted. Annually, the region draws hundreds of thousands of visitors, as reported by Amazonastur, the state tourism company. READ MORE: Brazil: Storm Causes Flooding, Kills 22, Displaces Hundreds This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Bert Hoover WATCH: Plane crash kills 14 people in Brazil's northern Amazonas state - From Sky News Australia A Colorado police officer who put a handcuffed suspect into a police SUV that got hit by a train has been sentenced to supervised probation and public service, according to her attorney. Fort Lupton officer Jordan Steinke will be on supervised probation for 30 months and will complete 100 hours of public service, as stated by attorney Mallory A. Revel. Judge Timothy Kerns found Steinke guilty of reckless endangerment and third-degree assault but cleared her of a felony charge of attempting manslaughter in July, as reported by CNN. While delivering the verdict, Judge Kerns stated, "There's no reasonable doubt that placing a handcuffed person in the back of a patrol car parked on railroad tracks creates a substantial and unjustifiable risk of harm by the train." The incident occurred in September 2022, when Steinke and another officer investigated an alleged road rage incident involving a weapon in Weld County, approximately 72 miles from Denver. READ NEXT: Colorado: 3 Decomposed Human Remains Found Colorado Police Officer Says Incident "Haunted Her" for a Year Yareni Rios-Gonzalez was pulled over, taken into custody, and placed in a police car parked on train tracks. While the officers were searching her vehicle, a train collided with the police car, per BBC. During the sentencing, Steinke expressed remorse, saying, "What happened that night has haunted me for 364 days. I remember your cries and your screams. I remember begging you to tell me your name. Praying that you would stay awake. I have never felt so helpless. We couldn't get you out of the car." She also expressed her desire to provide educational talks to fellow police officers about the dangers of railway tracks. Rios-Gonzalez's lawyer stated that while his client suffered life-altering injuries and felt anger, she also felt sympathy for Steinke, who lost her career. Initially, Judge Kerns intended to send Steinke to prison as a lesson about holding police officers accountable for misconduct. However, the defense and prosecution requested a probationary sentence, leading to a decision change. Victim Suffers Lasting Brain, Physical Injuries, According to Attorney Jordan Steinke, the Colorado police officer, was terminated from her position as a police officer. Her third-degree assault conviction will trigger revocation proceedings for her Peace Officer Standards and Training certification, making her ineligible to work as a police officer in the future. Rios-Gonzalez, who endured lasting brain and physical injuries from the crash, has lost trust in the justice system but also feels compassion for Steinke's career loss, The Denver Post noted. Rios-Gonzalez expressed her desire for Steinke to write a heartfelt letter of apology, but Judge Kerns did not order Steinke to do so, stating, "That needs to come from you, from your heart, not because a judge told you to." The other Colorado police officer involved in the incident, Pablo Vazquez, is set to go on trial later this year. He faces charges of reckless endangerment and traffic-related violations for allegedly putting Rios-Gonzalez, Steinke, and three others at risk, according to Local 10. During Steinke's trial, her defense argued that she was unaware of Vazquez's decision to park his police vehicle on the tracks. READ MORE: New Mexico Police Officers Face Lawsuit After Wrongfully Shooting a Man This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Bert Hoover WATCH: Watch: Train Hits Colorado Police Car With Suspect Inside - From NBC News For many years, the fight against dengue fever in Honduras has centered around educating people on the importance of avoiding mosquito bites. However, a more promising approach has emerged: breeding special mosquitoes to combat dengue, according to MM News. In Honduras, scientists have developed these special mosquitoes, engineered to carry a bacteria called Wolbachia that disrupts disease transmission. When these mosquitoes reproduce, they pass on the bacteria to their offspring, effectively reducing the likelihood of future dengue outbreaks. This innovative strategy in the battle against dengue has been pioneered by the nonprofit organization known as the World Mosquito Program, and it is currently undergoing testing in more than a dozen countries. Given that over half of the global population is at risk of contracting dengue, the World Health Organization is closely monitoring mosquito releases in Honduras and other locations, with plans to endorse this approach on a global scale. Doctors Without Borders has partnered with the mosquito program in Honduras, where approximately 10,000 people fall ill with dengue each year. Over the next six months, they aim to release nearly 9 million mosquitoes carrying the Wolbachia bacteria. READ NEXT: Honduras Planning for New Prison Island A Unique Way to Fight Dengue Dengue is a mosquito-borne disease, and despite significant progress in combating diseases like malaria, dengue infection rates continue to rise. It is estimated that around 400 million people across 130 countries contract dengue each year, VOA noted. While dengue's mortality rates are relatively low, at approximately 40,000 deaths annually, outbreaks can strain healthcare systems and disrupt daily life for many, causing missed work or school. Traditional methods of preventing mosquito-borne illnesses have proven less effective against dengue. The Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, dengue's primary carriers, have developed insecticide resistance. Additionally, four different forms of the dengue virus make it challenging to control through vaccines. Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are particularly formidable because they are active daily, making bed nets less effective. Their preference for warm, wet environments and dense urban areas means climate change and urbanization will likely exacerbate the dengue problem. Raman Velayudhan, a researcher from the WHO's Global Neglected Tropical Diseases Program, stressed the need for better tools to combat dengue and hailed Wolbachia as a long-term and sustainable solution. Honduras Special Mosquitoes Many of the Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes used in this initiative are bred in Medellin, Colombia, operated by the World Mosquito Program, producing a staggering 30 million of these mosquitoes weekly, AP reports. The facility imports dried mosquito eggs from various regions to ensure that the mosquitoes released possess characteristics like the local mosquito populations, such as insecticide resistance. These dried eggs are placed in water with powdered food. Once they hatch, they can mate with the "mother colony," a lineage carrying Wolbachia, primarily consisting of females. The facility meticulously cares for these mosquitoes, providing males with sugared water and females with human blood kept at 97 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius) to encourage breeding. Marlene Salazar, the facility's coordinator, ensures optimal conditions for their development. Once it's confirmed that these new mosquitoes carry Wolbachia, their eggs are dried and placed in capsule-like containers for transport to release sites. In Honduras, Doctors Without Borders has engaged in a door-to-door campaign in a hilly neighborhood of Tegucigalpa. They sought residents' assistance in incubating mosquito eggs bred in the Medellin facility. Residents agreed to hang glass jars containing water and mosquito egg-filled capsules from tree branches. After approximately 10 days, the mosquitoes would hatch and take flight. On the same day, a team from Doctors Without Borders deployed across Northern Tegucigalpa on motorcycles, carrying jars of the already-hatched mosquitoes. They released thousands of these dengue-fighting mosquitoes into the air at designated locations. READ MORE: Brazil Plane Crash Kills 14 This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Bert Hoover WATCH: Honduras fights dengue with more mosquitoes - From Associated Press Nine teenagers who escaped from a detention center in Berks County after overpowering staff and crawling under a fence were captured less than 12 hours later, state police said Monday. All will be charged with escape and some may face other charges. It probably was planned, but poorly planned, said Pennsylvania State Police Trooper David Beohm. Beohm said the first four were taken into custody shortly before 6 a.m. after they went to a residence and knocked on the door. They turned themselves in because they were cold and tired, Beohm said. The other five were captured after police received a report of a stolen truck and a sort of pursuit took place, Beohm said. Four youths were taken into custody from the vehicle and a fifth, who ran away, was caught in a field a short time later. State and local police were called late Sunday to take control of the juvenile center in Morgantown, about 50 miles northwest of Philadelphia. Beohm said the escape happened after the teen boys, all between the ages of 15 and 17, wrested the keys away from staff. Abraxas Academy is a secure residential treatment program providing specialized care for delinquent male youth between the ages of 14 to 18 in ninth grade or above, according to the facilitys website. Months after declaring he would not seek another term in the Virginia House of Delegates, Rob Bell has found a new role in the Glenn Youngkin administration. On Monday, Attorney General Jason Miyares announced that Bell has started at his new post: deputy attorney general for health, education and social services. I have known Rob from our work together in the General Assembly, especially on the Courts of Justice Committee, Miyares said in a statement announcing the news. I have a deep respect for his work ethic, intellect and knowledge of Virginia laws. Miyares office declined to comment further, referring The Daily Progress to his written statement. Bell, a Republican, has been a longtime member of the General Assemblys lower chamber. He first took office in 2002 representing the 58th District, which included Greene County as well as parts of Albemarle, Fluvanna and Rockingham counties. In February, he announced that his time in the body had come to an end. It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve in the House of Delegates. I want to thank the voters who allowed me to represent them in Richmond for the last 22 years, Bell said from the House floor, touting his legislative accomplishments. The decision not to seek a reelection bid was almost certainly influenced by Virginias recent redistricting. If he wanted to stay in the House, he would have had to run in the new 55th District, which is home to far more Democratic voters than he is accustomed. In the safely Republican 58th District, Bell regularly received more than 60% of the vote against Democratic challengers. His time in the House would have ended next January, but the Albemarle County resident resigned before taking on this new role in the attorney generals office. As delegate, I had the chance to learn about a wide variety of legal and policy issues while serving on the Education Committee, the Health, Welfare and Institutions Committee and the Behavioral Health Commission. I am excited to bring this knowledge into a new public service role, Bell said in a statement issued Monday. I am honored that Attorney General Miyares has asked me to join his office. That statement cites Bells time on House committees such as the Health, Welfare and Institutions Committee and the Education Committee. Bell patroned numerous bills into law, including measures to address mental health, school safety and bullying, college sexual assault, protective orders and rules for special-needs Virginians, it reads. Bells resignation will not trigger a special election, as the General Assembly has concluded its session for the year. Republican Steve Harvey and Democrat Amy Laufer are running to represent the redrawn 55th District in the House, which includes much of Bells old territory: parts of Albemarle, Louisa, Nelson and Fluvanna counties. UPDATE: Hackettstown police say the teen has been located. His photo, name and identifying information have been removed from this report. INITIAL POST: A Hackettstown teen missing from his New Jersey home may be headed for Florida, according to town police asking for help finding him. The teenager was last seen at his home on Sept. 13, Hackettstown police said Monday. He was last seen wearing an orange shirt, blue jeans, black sneakers and a black hat. Police say he should have a black suitcase. Anyone with information on his whereabouts should call Hackettstown police at 908-852-3300. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com. A former soldier and Laois resident is to posthumously receive the highest bravery award available to a civilian in the State. James Jimmy Nicholl, who was in his early 40s, lost his life attempting to save a drowning man in the River Liffey in Dublin last April. James, who had been living homeless in Dublin, dived into the cold water and managed to reach the drowning man but sadly both succumbed to the strong river currents. He was hailed a hero following his tragic death. Now he is set to become only the 14th person ever to be awarded a Gold Medal for bravery since the Deeds of Bravery awards began 75 years ago in 1947. RTE broadcaster Joe Duffy and a number of his listeners were among those who nominated James to the Comhairle na Mire Gaile/Deeds of Bravery awards. The nomination was put before Comhairle na Mire Gaile /the Deeds of Bravery Council at their formal meeting which was held on Friday, July 7 in remote, virtual format. In attendance on the day were Ceann Comhairle, Sean O Fearghail TD, Cathaoirleach Seanad Eireann, Jerry Buttimer, Garda Commissioner Drew Harris, President Association of Irish Local Government Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick, Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr Daithi de Roiste and Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Kieran McCarthy. The Chair, Sean O Fearghail TD, noted that James was a man for whom life had become dark and difficult through addiction but who saw something in the life of another human being that was worth saving and did not hesitate to step forward. In risking his own life while trying to save the life of a stranger, James Nicholl represented the very best impulse in all of us, the impulse to come to the aid of someone in need, regardless of the fear we feel, or the cost we might bear, the council noted. The Council considered awarding James a Gold Medal for bravery and were unanimous in this consideration. The members present were reminded by the Council Secretary of the extraordinary high bar for the recommendation of a Gold medal award, few of which have been given in the history of the awards. With this in mind, Comhairle na Mire Gaile felt that James Nicholl was deserving of such an award and recommended a posthumous Gold Medal be given to him at the national awards ceremony to be held on Friday, November 10, 2023. The council reviewed 21 submissions, related to the deeds of 28 individuals which involved rescue from fires, water, domestic assault and other dangerous situations. Two weeks prior to the meeting, all members of the Comhairle were provided with copies of the submissions book, which contained excerpts from the nominations in each case, as well as Garda reports and relevant media items. This allowed them to carefully consider each case individually before convening as a council. https://www.offalyexpress.ie/news/home/1148193/former-localresident-who-died-in-rescue-attempt-hailed-a-hero.html Options available for the council regarding each submission were as follows; No award, a Letter of Commendation, Certificate of Bravery, Certificate and Bronze medal, Certificate and Silver Medal or Certificate and Gold medal. For a recommendation to stand, at least four members of Comhairle Na Mire Gaile, the Deeds of Bravery Council, must be in favour and this rule was followed in each instance. The nomination for James Nicholl was reviewed in depth by members, before and during the meeting. From the beginning, the magnitude of the sacrifice made by James Nicholl was recognised by the Comhairle. A Government Department has defended conditions at a refugee camp after they were queried at a Municipal District meeting last week. Independent Cllr Aisling Moran questioned the conditions at the Ukrainian refugee site in Stradbally at the latest Portarlington Graiguecullen Municipal District meeting. She visited the site and took pictures of the facility before being asked to leave. She said the tents should be three or four metres apart to comply with fire regulations but were only about a metre apart. I dont know how a fire officer signed off on this, said Cllr Moran. I would like a copy of the fire certificate, she added. Cllr Moran raised questions about the washing facilities, cooking area and the use of portaloos for toilet facilities. Cllr Moran also took issue with what she claimed was the narrative that anyone who raised concerns about the site was a racist. She said people had genuine concerns about the site, its suitability for the locality and the welfare of those who were to be accommodated. Independent Cllr Ben Brennan told Cllr Moran that the council had no role in the refugee camp. Cllr Moran pointed out that they were public representatives and should be permitted to raise issues of concern to the local community. Laois Fire Service forwarded a query in relation to the site from the Leinster Express/Laois Live to the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth. In response, the Department issued a statement about the refugee camp on the Electric Picnic site. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Ireland has seen an unprecedented number of people arrive in Ireland fleeing the war. In addition, there has been a huge increase in people seeking asylum from other countries, the Department stated. The pressure to accommodate over 93,920 people in such a short period of time has led to shortages at times. The Department has availed of all suitable offers of accommodation made through its offer portal on gov.ie, right across the country, in order to address the accommodation shortfall. Stradbally was identified as a contingency site within this context. The safety and security of the residents of the site is of paramount importance. The Stradbally accommodation facility does not require a fire safety certificate, but a fire risk assessment has been undertaken for the site. The Department is satisfied that all requirements have been met appropriately, the Department said. People being accommodated at the site for the coming weeks will receive hot catered meal service provision, on-site access to an advanced paramedic and first aid service, serviced shower and toilet facilities; self-service laundry facilities; sanitation and refuse services; indoor and outdoor dining facilities; indoor and outdoor recreational spaces; utilities (hot water, heating) availability and tracked walkway all around site to ensure safe passage between on-site tents, the Department added. The arrangement to accommodate Ukrainian refugees at the former Electric Picnic site in Laois is expected to last for six weeks. The refugees began arriving at the site when the Electic Picnic ended on September 4 last. The Department has previously announced that it would accommodate up to 750 refugees at the site. Its understood that there were 250 people living on the site last week. The refugees are aged between four and 60 years of age. A Kildare-based Senator has welcomed the establishment of a new agency which has been set up by the government to tackle domestic violence and refuge delivery. Fianna Fail Senator, Fiona O'Loughlin said she welcomes the government's approval to publish the Bill to create a statutory agency dedicated to tackling and reducing domestic, sexual and gender-based violence (DSGBV) in order to support abuse survivors. She explained that the DSGBV Agency Bill 2023 follows a government decision that an agency should be established to deliver on commitments under a Zero Tolerance Strategy, which is 'an ambitious programme of reform to achieve a society which does not accept domestic, sexual and gender-based violence or the attitudes which underpin it.' The new agency will bring the dedicated and expert focus that is needed to tackle the serious and complex societal problem of DSGBV. Its main functions as set out in the Bill include: Planning, coordinating and monitoring the development of refuge accommodation Providing support, including financial assistance, for the delivery of services to victims and persons at risk of DSGBV Developing standards for funded services, and monitoring compliance Co-ordinating the delivery of relevant Government strategies and plans Delivering public campaigns aimed at raising awareness of DSGBV and reducing its prevalence Carrying out ongoing research to support the development of future policies and programmes The Bill will be introduced in the Dail by the end of the month. Commenting on the announcment, Senator O'Loughlin said: "Violence against women is an epidemic in this country. "My colleagues and I in Fianna Fail have been clear that more needs to change to protect women in Ireland from the threat and fear of violence." She continued: "The creation of a dedicated agency to provide a broad range of support services for victims and people who may be at risk or who are suffering in silence is a welcome step forward. "It signals Fianna Fail's commitment in government to ensure the most vulnerable in our society are protected. "It is paramount that there are robust supports in place so that victims of domestic violence can access the services they need... this includes the delivery of womens refuge centres right across the country, including here in Kildare. Fianna Fail Senator Fiona O'Loughlin. "I understand this new agency will play a lead role in ensuring that plans for refuges are delivered. "We, as a Party, will continue to strive for Zero Tolerance of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence in our society through greater education, an awareness to change attitudes, respect and by ensuring victims are supported with compassion when they take the brave step and come forward to seek help.'' Senator O'Loughlin concluded: "The Bill to establish this agency is a top Government priority under the autumn legislative programme, and is expected to be up and running by January of next year." If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can contact: One in Four (oneinfour.ie), Rape Crisis Helpline (1800-778888), the Samaritans (116123 or jo@samaritans.org) and HSE counselling services (1800-235234). Kildare communities are being offered supports to take steps to protect and promote local plants and wildlife with new grants as well as a one-stop-shop information website. Community Foundation Ireland is now inviting applications from local groups who wish to take biodiversity action. Grants of up to 11,000 are available under two criteria. Local groups which wish to formulate their own Community Biodiversity Action Plan are being offered the opportunity to engage an expert ecologist to guide their efforts. Secondly those who already have an action plan can apply for support to turn it into firm action. To date the Community Foundation, a philanthropic hub with an equality mission, has through a partnership with Government supported more 180 such action plans to bring new life to green areas, quarries, riverbanks, hedge-rows and many other local amenities. Details of the grant applications are available in the Apply For Funding section of CommunityFoundation.ie In addition, Kildare groups are also being invited to further inform their work by accessing a new website developed by the Foundation in partnership with the National Biodiversity Centre. Online guides, information videos as well as an interactive map of existing action plans can be accessed at ActionForBiodiversity.ie Announcing both initiatives, Denise Charlton, Chief Executive of Community Foundation Ireland said, In Kildare wildlife is under threat. Animals and plants are either under threat or disappearing altogether. We have been proud to work with many communities who are taking action to reverse this emergency. Through our new grant round as well as the information website we hope that others will now join us and protect local wildlife for future generations. A Kildare TD had admitted that he is 'disappointed' by the delay in Diageo's proposed 200 million brewery for Newbridge. The Irish Times reported on Thursday, September 14 that a representative for the company warned that further delays to its planned carbon-neutral brewery would 'jeopardise the rationale for this 200m investment in Ireland.' Planning permission for the project was previously granted back in March of this year. When asked for comment about the situation by the Leinster Leader, Fine Gael TD for Kildare-South Martin Heydon, who has been a vocal supporter of the project, replied: "I am disappointed about the length of time it is taking to get a decision on the proposed Diageo Brewery in Kildare by An Bord Pleanala. "Working closely with Diageo in my role as a Government Minister, I am aware that they are under significant time pressure to move production of their beers and lagers from St James Gate in Dublin so they have a very tight window for delivery of this 200m investment in South Kildare. He continued: "Our planning system must deal with applications and appeals in a timely manner to be fair to all who apply or make submissions. "It would be terrible if this exciting project was lost to Kildare and Ireland but I am hopeful that the new stated deadline for a decision on this vital piece of infrastructure of November 20 will be met." Fine Gael Minister Martin Heydon at the launch of plans for the brewery back in July 2022. AFTER a brief hiatus, the iconic Australian soap, Neighbours, is set to return to screens this Monday and Irish fans are buzzing with excitement as the show's revival promises a fresh dose of drama, nostalgia, and the timeless appeal of life on Ramsay Street. Social media has been abuzz with Irish fans expressing their excitement and nostalgia. Twitter has seen fans reminiscing about their favorite moments as they eagerly anticipate the new stories that will unfold. One fan on Twitter wrote: "Might've shed a little tear upon checking the TV guides," he wrote. "Order really has been restored." Mightve shed a little tear upon checking the TV guides for next Monday and seeing that #Neighbours is also back on RTE in Ireland, with both daily showings lined up. I used to watch it on RTE One all the time growing up. Order really has been restored. pic.twitter.com/vgZtEebizC Stephen Patterson (@mr_sjpatterson) September 11, 2023 Another Irish watcher wrote: "So happy that it's back on TV here in Ireland - as it deserves to be." Saw this pop up on my timeline and got deja vu from my last tweet So happy that it's back on TV here in Ireland - as it deserves to be dramallamas (@dramallamas2) September 11, 2023 The show will be returning to its old home of RTE, screening at 2pm on RTE One and it's regular 6pm slot on RTE2 between Mondays and Thursdays. An Bord Pleanala's refusal of planning permission for a 650m Liquid Natural Gas (LNG storage, redistribution facility, power station and battery storage facility) has been welcomed by the Sligo Leitrim Constituency group of the Green Party. The Green Party Chairperson, Blaithin Gallagher, commending the decision, said, "The Green Party, in collaboration with environmental campaigners, has successfully advocated against this LNG facility's establishment. "They had a statement included in the current Programme for Government expressing opposition, and subsequently, a policy statement was crafted and adopted by the government. This policy directly influenced the decision by ABP, securing significant victory for our shared future." Welcoming the decision, the constituency group's Energy spokesperson and former chairperson of Love Leitrim, Johnny Gogan, said, "When Ireland banned fracking in 2017, a campaign spearheaded by Love Leitrim, the basis for our resistance to the Shannon facility was established. How could we then inflict fracking on communities in the U.S. where New Fortress Energy was planning to source their gas for export to Ireland". Gogan praised the work of Environmental campaigners such as Safety Before LNG, Future Proof Clare and his colleagues in Love Leitrim for their persistent work on the issue. "If this comes to pass, it will not lock us into long-term LNG usage the way the commercial Shannon facility would have. Along with other campaigners on this issue, we will watch the outcome of the Energy Review with interest", Gogan added. A local councillor has welcomed legislation launched by Sinn Fein to ensure that energy companies are regulated fairly so that customers are protected. Sinn Feins Electricity Regulation (Amendment) Bill 2023 introduces measures to ensure that the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities (CRU) is fit for purpose, including increased power to monitor and regulate hedging practices and to investigate and sanction instances of anti-competitive behaviour in the energy market. The Bill was brought forward by Sinn Fein spokesperson for Climate Action and the Environment, Darren ORourke TD and Senator Lynn Boylan, after the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities confirmed to the climate committee that they do not have oversight over the hedging strategies of energy companies, meaning that such strategies remain totally unregulated. Commenting on the published legislation, Cllr Padraig Fallon said: Irish energy prices are some of the highest in Europe. Workers and families are struggling to afford their energy bills. They need a break from these sky high costs. Despite the fact that wholesale energy prices have fallen 64% from July last year to a new two year low, the cost of energy is still exorbitantly high and continues to place considerable strain on ordinary workers and families. The fact is when compared to our European counterparts, Ireland remains and outlier. Retail energy prices were falling all over Europe while Irelands remained stubbornly high. Although more recently, some energy companies have begun lowering the prices following the entry of a new lower price competitor to the market, the fact remains that the average bill is now almost 1,000 more than last year! The reason for this, we are told, is because of the so-called hedging practices of energy companies. Yet our own regulator has absolutely zero oversight over this, as was confirmed by the CRUs latest visit to the climate committee. Evidently, were just supposed to trust that energy companies are not taking advantage of sky-high prices while simultaneously maintaining obscene profits. All in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis! It beggars belief! It is clear that ordinary workers and families have had enough. While the government and the regulator act as mere commentators, Sinn Fein is ready to tackle this issue once and for all. Our legislation introduces a suite of practical measures to ensure that the regulator has the regulatory teeth to rein in energy companies. It also enhances transparency and accountability thus bringing the Irish regulator in line with European counterparts. I am urging all TDs to stand up for Irish customers and back our legislation. This is an important piece of legislation that will stand up for customers and protect them from unfair hedging practices by energy companies. Households clearly need a break from spiralling costs and they need it now. The government have told us for months they were doing all they could to address Irelands exorbitant energy bills. While we cant find any evidence of that, with this legislation Sinn Fein has given them the answer to a fairer more transparent energy market. We are urging them to take it. People deserve nothing less. Meet Chef Waverly Howard, affectionately known as Chef Wave, hailing proudly from Dayton, Ohio. Over the last decade, he has breathed life into his culinary aspirations. Chef Waves odyssey commenced with launching his food truck, Cruising Cuisine, and establishing his catering venture, Creative Delights. What began as a fervent idea has blossomed into a remarkable success story, propelling him to the forefront of Downtown Daytons corporate landscape. As one of the most sought-after executive chefs in the region, Chef Wave remains dedicated to perfecting his craft and nurturing a vibrant food community. Beyond the culinary realm, Chef Wave has embarked on a profound personal journey, striving for self-improvement while giving back to his cherished community. His commitment extends far beyond the kitchen, as he passionately advocates for renal kidney failure awareness, a cause deeply close to his heart. What is your favorite ingredient to cook with? My favorite ingredient is Garlic, it brings my dishes to life. What ingredient do you dread? I dread utilizing Thyme, too little you cant tell its there and too much it can take over your entire dish. Whats your favorite dish to make? My favorite dish to make is Lasagna, its a dish that I can make in a variety of ways and it turns out perfect every time. Whats your favorite pig out food? My favorite thing to eat anytime of day is Savory Grits, I have such fine memories associated with Grits. What restaurant, other than your own, do you like to dine at in the Miami Valley? The Roost Modern Italian Whats your best advice for home chefs? Take risks, be innovative, and have fun with your creations. Food is an experience that you should enjoy putting together. If you could invite any 4 guests to a dinner party who would they be and why? Kobe Bryant- David Goggins- Chad Wright- Les Brown These are all people who really motivate and inspire me in my everyday life. They share my willingness and drive to win at all cost. Such brilliant minds full of determination I would really enjoy just having a conversation over a good meal. Who do you look up to in the industry and why? Bobby Flay, I think he has a really good story that really inspires me as we have several similarities in our life experiences. Throughout all of his obstacles he was determined to really make something of his life and he did just that. What do you do in the Miami Valley on a day off? Im always working and studying my craft. I have no days off. Share a kitchen disaster, lucky break or other interesting story: This years Spanish Armada Remembrance weekend included a series of concerts, lectures, walks and other special events from September 14-17. Sligo Champion Ciaran Byrne writes: Their lives were poignantly remembered, a cross for each of the 1,100 souls etched inside a giant circle in the sand on a windswept Streedagh beach in Co Sligo. The crosses were drawn around a straw boat, representing a sunken Spanish Armada ship (one of three that sank here in September 1588), before senior officers from todays Spanish Navy, including Vice Admiral Torres Pineyro, laid wreaths and soberly saluted their memory. After 435 years, the sands of time and history may have dramatically shifted, but in Sligo on an autumn weekend, the deaths, in cruel and brutal conditions, of these Spanish Armada soldiers were acknowledged. The deaths of 1,100 Spanish Armada soldiers and sailors 435 years ago this September was commemorated this weekend at Streedagh beach in Co. Sligo After being defeated in battle by the English, the Armada ships took the long and dangerous route around the Scottish and Irish coasts back to Spain. After the ships sank off the Sligo coast amid violent storms, many sailors who managed to survive made it ashore only to be attacked and killed by waiting English soldiers. The story of what happened that night was recounted by a Spanish Armada sailor, Captain Francisco de Cuellar. Two senior Spanish naval officers from the OPV Centinela, a Spanish Naval Vessel, laid a floral wreath at the Spanish Armada monument overlooking Streedagh beach on Saturday. They then attended the commemoration on the beach, along with members of the public and local representatives. Eddie OGorman, Chair of Spanish Armada Ireland, said: The resumption of the courtesy visits of ships of the Spanish Naval Service after the hiatus of the Covid years is heart-warming and signals the respect that the modern Armada holds for the work of Spanish Armada Ireland. Migrants wait under pine trees at the operational center to receive registration papers from the Italian Red Cross on the Italian island of Lampedusa, on September 17, 2023. ZAKARIA ABDELKAFI / AFP French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said he would visit Rome on Monday, September 18, to discuss migration, after a week of mass arrivals on the Italian island of Lampedusa drew a European response. France wants to "help Italy to secure its borders" as one of the European Union's main countries of arrival for migrants crossing from North Africa, Darmanin told Europe1 radio when he announced the trip for later in the day. Darmanin's office said he would meet his Italian counterpart, Matteo Piantedosi. Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Lampedusa, the epicenter of the European migration crisis Some 8,500 people arrived on Lampedusa on 199 boats between Monday and Wednesday last week, according to figures from United Nations body the International Organization for Migration, prompting European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen to travel there Sunday to announce an emergency action plan. The mass movement has stoked the immigration debate in France, where political parties in the country's hung parliament are wrangling over a draft law governing new arrivals. "There cannot be the message to people arriving on our (European) shores that they will be welcomed whatever happens", Darmanin said, promising to project "firmness" in Rome. "We have to apply European rules" on receiving people and distributing them among EU member states, he added, after Germany suspended transfers of migrants from Italy over alleged breaches by Rome. Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Lampedusa migration crisis: French far right puts pressure on Macron "If there are asylum seekers eligible for asylum, who are persecuted for political reasons, of course they are refugees. And in those cases, France... as it has always done, can welcome those people," Darmanin said. But "60%" of arrivals "come from countries like Ivory Coast, Guinea or The Gambia... with no humanitarian issues", he added. "We have to protect the EU's external borders and, above all, look into asylum requests immediately, and send people back to their country when they're not eligible." France is expected to face a call from Pope Francis for greater tolerance towards migrants later this week during a high-profile visit to Mediterranean city Marseille, where the pontiff will meet President Emmanuel Macron and celebrate mass for tens of thousands in a stadium. Francis called on Sunday for "putting human dignity and real people, especially those most in need, in first place". Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Macron pampers French Catholics ahead of Pope visit to Marseille A Senegalese migrant in front of a bus that will take him to the Guatemalan border and on to the United States. In Tegucigalpa, Honduras, on August 24, 2023. ORLANDO SIERRA / AFP In Senegal, Nicaragua has made its way into the popular vocabulary. This small Central American country, unknown to many Senegalese until recently, has become famous since becoming touted as a springboard to the United States. In the village where he works as a secondary school teacher in Bakel, in eastern Senegal, Abdou Talla has noticed several departures among his pupils to this destination in recent months. "The adults left first," he said. In this village, which has a well-established community in France and where "success is achieved through emigration," the traditional route, has been disrupted by the "opening up" of this new itinerary. The trend has taken off, especially as a visa is not required for Nicaragua. On social media, videos have appeared of groups of Senegalese filming themselves at Dakar Airport, eager to leave with a simple arrival permit. If you follow the profiles of these would-be migrants, you can see them climbing mountains, trekking through the forest, crossing rivers (sometimes at night) and ending their journey with images of skyscrapers in American cities. The success of their journey adds to the numerous videos explaining how to get to the US by this overland route. Read more Short of doctors, Senegal faces a brain drain to France Less dangerous than the passage across the Atlantic Ocean to Europe via the Canary Islands, this new path is proving very popular in Senegal. After having three visa applications turned down by the US embassy and an aborted departure due to family pressure, Khadim became interested in this alternative gateway, whose secrets he has now mastered. While he waited to make his "American dream" a reality, the young man recounted how a friend of his arrived in the US on August 26 after a two-week journey, which is an average length. An expensive trip "Dakar, Casablanca, Madrid, then El Salvador, then from there to Nicaragua," Khadim said, before adding that this series of connecting flights is "the itinerary that's working at the moment." "Tickets are cheaper if you get them early, but it's not a sure thing, as there may be a change [of itinerary]," said Hamidou, one of the organizers of these trips, who would-be migrants call "businessman." Based in the US, he buys the ticket, facilitates his clients' journey from the airport of departure where corruption allows them to avoid police harassment and explains the steps to be taken at each stage. He is also in charge of sending the "pocket money" remitted to the travelers before departure, in small installments, which he distributes along the way to prevent them from being robbed en route. From Nicaragua, the migrants usually continue their journey by bus or in convoys of small vehicles, crossing the borders into Honduras, Guatemala and Mexico with the help of a network of local smugglers and guides, often assisted by Senegalese nationals who act as interpreters. You have 60% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only. Right before a military junta upset the course of history by overthrowing Niger's President Mohamed Bazoum, a special Council of Ministers was to have been held on July 27 in the capital city of Niamey. Coincidence or not, on that day, the government of this country located in Africa's Sahel region was set to pass a strategic decree authorizing the creation of PetroNiger. The new company's main objective was to be management of the country's oil resources. Did this play a part in precipitating the government's downfall? Had it been seen by the putschists as a surefire way of securing control of a lucrative sector that could have done damage to them or their backers? Among those close to Bazoum, at any rate, there is little doubt about this scenario. "Oil was not the only motive for the putsch, but it was one of the key triggers," said a close adviser to the president, clearly pointing the finger at the camp of former president Mahamadou Issoufou (2011-2021). Although he has denied it, Issoufou is now suspected of having played a role in General Abdourahamane Tiani's power grab. It was he who appointed the junta's current strongman as head of the presidential guard. After the election of Bazoum, with whom he had worked politically for 30 years, it was his son Sani Mahamadou Issoufou, known as Abba, who was promoted to minister of petroleum, mines and renewable energies, before relinquishing the renewable energies portfolio at the beginning of 2022. There was a sense of continuity. 'Open secret' During his two terms leading Niger, Issoufou maintained a stranglehold on Sonidep, the state-owned Nigerien oil company. "It's an open secret that Sonidep has always been a slush fund for all political parties, not just the PNDS [Nigerien Party for Democracy and Socialism, founded in 1990 by Issoufou]," said a representative from a civil society organization that has investigated these cases. This has been borne out by massive fraud and embezzlement, which has been repeatedly denounced by the High Authority for Combating Corruption. The company's debt now stands at over $200 million. This lack of governance was all the more worrisome given that, at the time of the coup, Niger had been preparing to scale up its economy thanks to the exports of its black gold. Until that point, the country's oil production had remained at a modest 20,000 barrels or so a day, half of which had been sufficient to meet domestic consumption needs since 2011. The rest was exported to neighboring countries, including Nigeria. New discoveries in 2013, however, had offered a glimpse of a different future. You have 65% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only. The geography and human realities of migration have their own causes, which political grandstanding often ignores. While Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni came to power almost a year ago promising to "close the borders," Italy has welcomed over 127,000 migrants since January, twice as many as over the same period in 2022. On Sunday, September 17, on the island of Lampedusa, where 11,000 migrants have landed in the space of a few days, the same Meloni who defied the European Union (EU) before coming to power described the presence of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at her side as a "gesture of responsibility of Europe toward itself." While Meloni's political friends in Hungary and Poland are doing their utmost to block the compulsory solidarity mechanism painstakingly negotiated by the 27 EU member states, the Italian leader is calling for European solidarity. The map of Europe is such that migrants approach it mainly via Greece, Spain and, especially these days, Italy. Logically, these frontline countries are the ones most in need of a European policy to share the burden of receiving and processing asylum applications. Conversely, countries such as France and Germany and even more so the Eastern European nations which are merely "rebound" countries, are more reticent. Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes In Lampedusa, Ursula von der Leyen unveils 'a European response' to migration crisis The scenes of chaos broadcast on September 13, showing police pushing back migrants and a reception center overwhelmed by the influx of starving people, only serve to confirm that the EU urgently needs a coordinated immigration policy. The fact that Meloni, leader of a far-right party, has de facto accepted this demand and is standing alongside von der Leyen is a strong warning a year ahead of the European elections, in which anti-European far-right parties in several countries are vying with each other to take a firm stance on immigration and dream of bringing the right along with them. Matching words and deeds The European Commission president is right to assert that "irregular migration is a European challenge and it needs a European answer." French President Emmanuel Macron also speaks the truth when he says that "strictly nationalist approaches have their limits" and insists on the "duty of European solidarity" with Italy. All that remains is to match these fine words with deeds, after too many incidents in which the countries of southern Europe have been left to fend for themselves. Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Two migrants' hell on the Tunisian-Algerian border This is no easy task. The strategy of funding North African countries to prevent departures from their shores is open to criticism, as it fosters corruption and makes EU border control dependent on authoritarian countries. The influx of migrants from Tunisia, a country with which the EU has just signed an agreement of this type under pressure from Meloni, also shows its limits. But Europe can no longer afford to wait. The Pact on Asylum and Migration, which has been under discussion for four years, provides for the distribution of asylum seekers among the EU-27 or, failing that, a financial contribution. Although it was adopted in June, this set of regulations is still subject to arbitration. If the EU were to finally move toward solidarity on the subject of migration, it would send a strong signal ahead of the 2024 European elections to the political forces that revel in its powerlessness while advocating "solutions" that are both futile and unacceptable. Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes A year ahead of European Parliament elections, the right's flirtation with the far right threatens balance of power The app of the Russian government newspaper is displayed on an iPhone screen showing Russian President Vladimir Putin during his speech in the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, February 22, 2022. ALEXANDER ZEMLIANICHENKO JR / AP Russia on Monday, September 18, summoned the French ambassador, accusing French officials of refusing to grant Russian reporters access to a press conference by President Emmanuel Macron at the G20 summit. Moscow alleged that the French organizers of the press conference in New Delhi prevented reporters from the state-run RIA Novosti and "Russia-News" from entering, and tried to confiscate their phones. The foreign ministry said it had summoned France's ambassador to Moscow, Pierre Levy, and "expressed its strong protest against the discriminatory and openly Russophobic actions of representatives of the French authorities." "The country's authorities were asked to stop pressurizing and discriminating against unwanted media outlets, to stop labeling, and to treat Russian media in the same way as French journalists are treated in Russia," it added. 'Nobody broke any phones' A French diplomatic source told Agence France-Presse (AFP) at the time that Russia's version of events was incorrect. "Nobody broke any phones, of course, and we had to turn away around 30 journalists of all nationalities due to lack of space in the room," the source said. An AFP reporter at the press conference said the room was full and that some journalists had been prevented from entering. Russia has long accused France of discriminating against its journalists, including after the Elysee Palace refused to grant accreditation to Russia Today Moscow's flagship news outlet. During a 2017 visit by President Vladimir Putin to France, Macron accused the Russia Today and state-owned Sputnik news outlets of publishing "falsehoods" during the French Presidential election campaign. "Russia Today and Sputnik did not behave like press organs and journalists, but they behaved like organs of influence, propaganda and misleading propaganda," Macron said then. Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Russian media Sputnik France goes bankrupt while RT France tries to survive MANAGEMENT at more than 60% of businesses in the region say they struggle to retain staff due to the housing crisis, according to the results of a major new survey released by Limerick Chamber. Over the summer, the largest business representative group in the Mid-West surveyed economic sentiment locally. The results have revealed that housing for staff remains the key issue. According to Limerick Chamber, the majority of respondents ranked the availability of housing or rental accommodation as the barrier to filling job vacancies, followed closely by the availability of childcare plus the expectation of candidates to be able to work remotely. Despite this, 59% of executives have expanded the size of their workforce since the start of this year, with 48% of those surveyed stating they are primed to continue hiring. The survey shows the economic position of companies across the region remains healthy, with 87% of those responding indicating that fresh investment is on the way. The vast majority can self-fund the investment in their business. Instead of finance being seen as limiting growth, it is demand, cost of labour and supply chain issues. Seventy percent of those surveyed consider the present situation of their company to be good, with the remainder ranking it as satisfactory. In a sign of the times since Covid-19, executives of 9% of firms across the region say they need less office space. Only 15% want extra office space. Some 59% of companies are working to whats known as a hybrid model where sometimes staff are at home and sometimes they are in the office. Almost all those surveyed reported experiencing an increase in their energy costs - and are expecting further hikes in the coming months. Its this cost of living crisis and the supply and affordability of housing which rank as the top issues. Sean Golden, the chief economist and director of policy at Limerick Chamber said: While there is uncertainty out there amongst consumers, the business environment is broadly positive despite substantial increases in cost over the past year. He noted most businesses are now operating a hybrid model. Although, he added, this number has fallen since last year, seeing some demand for office space. Ultimately, feedback from this survey has been focused on talent and staffing, with existing skill shortages most businesses have turned to upskilling existing staff. The second most popular choice for responding to skill shortages has been to outsource work, where possible it is very important that we can keep this outsourcing within the Mid-West, he said. Chamber chief executive Dee Ryan added: One of Irelands key selling points for both indigenous and international investment has always been our people. However, we have now moved to a position whereby businesses are here, they want to invest, they want to expand their workforce, but housing is emerging as the key barrier to doing so. The chamber boss has welcomed a rise in cost-rental accommodation, whereby council provide homes to people at a percentage below the average market rate. However, it is also important to prioritise home ownership, which ensures mixed tenure in developments, gives strong roots to workers in a community but also is sensible financial planning for workers as they consider their housing security at pension age when they potentially are reliant on a state/social welfare pension that may not be able to sustain high rents in retirement, Ms Ryan added. LIMERICK is set to benefit from a substantial increase in funding for 2024 as part of the Irish government's commitment to support local authorities. Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh OBrien TD, announced that Limerick will receive an additional 1.5 million in Local Property Tax (LPT) baseline funding. This boost brings the city's total allocation to 19.05 million for the year 2024. Every local authority receives a minimum, or baseline, amount of funding from the Local Property Tax, supplemented by funding from the exchequer, where a local authoritys LPT income is lower than its baseline. Baseline funding is distributed according to a countys population, area, deprivation levels, local authority income raising capacity and national policy priorities. Limerick's baseline funding is essential and recognises the role played by local authority, not only in delivering a broad range of services day-to-day, but also in successfully leading the local response to emergency situations. These include establishment of the community call during the pandemic, and the community response forum to support the Ukrainian crisis. Minister Darragh OBrien TD acknowledged the challenges faced by local authorities and their growing demands for services. This significant increase in funding should go a long way towards easing the pressure on the sector, he stated. A WEALTH of talent and some of Irelands best-known names will gather in Newcastle West, Limerick for this years Eigse Michael Hartnett. The programme offers lots to choose from and plenty to enjoy with poetry, music, songs, literature, visual arts, talks, walks, puppet theatre, genealogy and a Lantern Parade all in the mix. This year's festival will run over four days, from October 5 to 7. Among this years highlights will be performances by Steve Cooney, Emma Langford and Jack ORourke and the cast of writers and poets includes Michael Harding, Karl Geary, Harry McGee, Paddy Bushe, Ann Marie Ni Churreain, Michelle McDonagh and Tim Cunningham. Alan English, Sunday Independent editor and former Limerick Leader editor as well as the author of five best-selling books will be the guest speaker on opening night. Local writers from the Desmond Scribblers will also feature in the programme while local writer Pat McLoughlin will launch his latest novel. Launching the festival programme in the Red Door Gallery in Newcastle West this week, Cllr Tom Ruddle, the cathaoirleach of Newcastle West Municipal District, drew on his memories of the late poet, Michael Hartnett (1941-1999) and remarked: Newcastle West is one of the few towns in the country with a statue of a poet in the Square. Dr Pippa Little, arts officer with Limerick City and County Council, said the council was delighted to continue working in partnership with the Eigse committee and, along with the Arts Council, to have invested in Eigse. These partnerships enable this very special festival to exist, she said. Eigse has culture at its heart, and brings a shared joy in our Irish culture. Its a special celebration of the local and the national, she added. A highlight of the Eigse Michael Hartnett festival is the presentation of the Michael Hartnett Poetry Award, which is awarded on alternate years, for a poetry collection in English no as Gaeilge. This years award is for a collection in Irish and the winner has been announced as Cathal OSearcaigh for his collection An Tir Ruin. He paid tribute to Michael and his work, describing him as a magisterial presence in the poetry of this country and a bardic voice alive to all the demands and nuances of our times. Cathal OSearcaigh will accept the award, which now carries a purse of 8,000 on Thursday, October 5 and will give a reading the following day. Further information and full programme via eigsemichaelhartnett.ie. PICTURES: Marie Keating STEVE Spade didn't just arrive at his interview, he appeared out of what seemed like thin air, before putting out his hand for formal introductions - but, then again, would you expect anything less from the man known as the Irish Houdini? Originally hailing from Coonagh, Steve's journey into the world of magic began at the age of five. As he grew older, he started captivating audiences with sleight-of-hand tricks, using odds and ends from his father's coat pockets. Transforming washers into bolts and back again was just the beginning before he moved on to dazzling the masses. Starting from humble beginnings, Spade pursued his studies at the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), formerly known as Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT). But he quickly ascended through the ranks in the magical world. With his uncanny knack for blurring the boundaries of the possible, Spade has captured the imaginations of audiences worldwide, and earned accolades and respect from his peers. His most recent win, a prestigious Merlin Award, was bestowed upon the Limerick man after he was nominated among hundreds of other magicians from all over the world. To be in the running for what is known as an Oscar of the magic world, the Coonagh man had to leave the deciders spellbound. Spade described one of his first daring escapes which he pulled off in the Shannon at home in Limerick. Off Mathew Bridge, I was nailed into a box and tasked with escaping, he laughs. From reading all my Houdini books, I knew what would get attention very early. Limerick, as a whole, he says, has been a supportive environment for him to perform in. Remembering a trick he carried out as part of the Elemental Festival in 2017, the dare-devil escaped from being burnt at the stake at King John's Castle, before appearing at the top of the castle when all the dust cleared. While his tricks may be death-defying, Spade emphasises their necessity in carving a name in the business. Yet, he's fully aware of the disbelief his performances can evoke. With disbelief come the call-outs or invitations to prove his capabilities through escapes. Spade recounts one of these invitations for an escape in Portrush back in 2019: A company challenged me to get out of a mobile home that was going to be crushed. I was chained up, blindfolded, placed inside, and they dropped a shipping container on top, he recalls, still very much alive to share the tale. It was the closest I've come to being challenged to a fight, perhaps even by someone like Tyson Fury! As it happened, Spade likes to put his own twist on his tricks, and added some trademark flair to this particular escape. We had arranged to have the container prematurely drop, he smirked. Not in the habit of spilling his trade secrets, he remarks, Everyone thought something had gone wrong, until I appeared behind them. Regarding his family, Spade has a two-year-old son named Michael, who is yet to grasp the gravity of his father's profession. He also has a supportive fiancee, Elaine, who tries to find peace of mind amidst the chaos - but that is no easy task when your partner is an escape artist. Spade, wanting to maintain his magical morals while keeping his bride-to-be informed, tries to reassure her as much as possible. Being a father to Michael, brings a new set of responsibilities and challenges to Spade's career, and the danger element has been elevated tenfold since his birth. This stuff is dangerous, Spade states, Something could easily go wrong with a trick, so I do have to weigh it up, but I always have people around me who have my best interests at heart. On the brighter side, Spade is excited to hopefully share his talents with his son. I think Michael will be thrown into the showbiz world in a sense, I want to bring him with me. Will he be a magician? I don't know, but he's a real little character. In the age of Youtube and TikTok tutorials, the centuries-old illusions passed down by magicians are now being unveiled online. However, this doesn't particularly concern Spade. If you're a young magician starting out and you find your trick on TikTok, it might be challenging to deliver because there's so much exposure. I would find that really tough. As a silver lining for any magician facing this issue, Spade adds, What they're exposing is what lazy magicians would do. Now you can develop the tricks, infuse your personality, and do something different to astonish the audience. With an online presence, Spade has worked hard to create bespoke magic, and by keeping most of his signature tricks for his live shows only, he tries to deter borrowing. It could be taken out of flattery, but it's your effect at the end of the day. Next for Spade is his upcoming Irish tour, Lost Magic, which looks to delve into the older gems of magic to startle a modern-day audience. Curated alongside Spade's late stuntman and friend, Mark Southworth, audiences across the country are welcome to this new series of shows - but under only one condition: Do not try this at home! Cycle Oregon's 33rd "Classic" ride wrapped up Saturday, Sept.16, at Albany's Timber Linn Memorial Park. It was the last iteration of the multiday ride. It was also the first and last time Albany was the site of the start and finish of the over 400-mile route, which this year took cyclists from Oregon and beyond through the state's wine country and along its scenic and rocky coast. Volunteers and city and state officials were happy to celebrate the route's last leg from Alsea to Albany for the 1,000-plus participating riders like Jon Kraft. He was one of the first cyclists to cross the finish line late Saturday morning. It was the Vancouver, Washington resident's 10th Cycle Oregon ride, and he was particularly taken with the journey from Toledo to Newport, seeing lighthouses and stopping to spot whales and seals. "It was one of the best days I've had on a bike," Kraft said. While Cycle Oregon will continue organizing other, shorter rides, its flagship weeklong route is one Kraft will miss. "I'm all for change, but it's a little sad," he said. He sped across the finish with fellow rider and San Diego resident (and Manzanita, Oregon native) John Seeley, who praised the volunteers for their support, as well as the warm reception from the towns along the route. He was also taken with the scenery. "I'd hate to tell people with cars this, but some of the roads we went on, if you just went there for a drive, you'd see parts of Oregon that you've never seen in your life that are phenomenally beautiful," Seeley said. Volunteers at the finish line, including Albany Visitors Association members and students from the Corvallis High School Spartan Robotics team, cheered and rung cowbells and tambourines as riders approached. Cyclists pedaled through a metal frame used at robotics team competitions, now adorned with faux-wine grapes and blue and white ribbons to honor the Oregon coast and wine theme. But wine wasn't the big-draw beverage at the finish line. In fact, a last-minute crisis was averted the day before, when it looked like cyclists wouldn't be getting a particular drink that has been a staple of Classic journeys for more than 20 years: chocolate milk. It was a problem Mayor Alex Johnson II and Albany Visitor Association Executive Director Rebecca Bond needed to solve before the finish on Saturday. "You should have heard the groans when we announced we weren't going to have any," Johnson said, adding that no nearby stores had the volume they needed for their sure-to-be thirsty riders. Fortunately, the mayor crossed paths with Albany's state Rep. Shelly Boshart Davis, who procured 1,100 cartons of lactose-free chocolate milk from the Oregon Dairy Association all within 24 hours. Boshart Davis was happy to keep the tradition alive and show riders from around Oregon and beyond the Pacific Northwest what the city has to offer. "We want them to leave Albany with a smile," she said. For Sharon Ewing-Fix, a longtime Cycle Oregon volunteer and Longview, Washington resident, it was a busy week working on the ride's site team. After volunteering with the organization for 15 years, watching the final Classic ride has been a bittersweet experience. "It's always been like going to summer camp and seeing old friends and meeting new friends," she said. BRITVIC Ireland has announced an investment of 6 million in its Ballygowan facility in Newcastle West, Co. Limerick. This investment will grow the sites production capacity by over 20% in order to meet growing consumer demand for Ballygowan mineral water and create 28 new jobs. In addition to the new manufacturing roles, the investment will provide additional bottling capacity for the equivalent of 50 million fully recycled and recyclable 500ml bottles of Ballygowan, enhance production capability, and underpin the strong sustainability credentials of the site. Welcoming the announcement, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Simon Coveney TD, said; Id like to congratulate Britvic Ireland on their announcement of a 6 million investment at their facility in Newcastle West, which will support the growth, expansion, and sustainability credentials of one of Irelands best-known water brands, Ballygowan. I warmly welcome the creation of 28 new manufacturing roles at the facility, and the strategic investment in the sustainable, long-term production of Ballygowan mineral water. Speaking about the investment, Kevin Donnelly, Managing Director at Britvic Ireland, said; We are incredibly proud of this latest milestone in Ballygowans journey as Irelands most loved and leading bottled water brand. The benefits of this investment will return for Britvic Ireland and the wider community in Newcastle West. Newcastle West is the home and source of Ballygowan mineral water, which has been produced and bottled at source since 1984. Britvic Ireland has been a local employer in Newcastle West since 2007 and the facility currently employs 55 people in addition to the newly announced roles. Ballygowan bottles are made from 100% recycled and recyclable plastic (rPET), following a 2 million investment in the Newcastle West facility in 2021. When recycled correctly, rPET bottles can be reused continuously, becoming a key contributor to the circular economy and removing virgin plastic from the supply chain. WELL-KNOWN nightclub owner Flan Costello has sought permission to build a backpackers hostel in Limerick city centre. Limerick has been without a full-time youth hostel for more than 20 years. But now Mr Costello, who owns the well-known nightclub at Dominic Street, is seeking to reignite plans to convert the upper levels of the former Milk Market Bar in Mungret Street into a youth hostel. In papers submitted to Limerick City and County Council planners, Mr Costello outlined the plans to convert part of the ground floor and the entire first and second floors into youth hostel accommodation. Hes also seeking to extend the first-floor of the currently closed bar to bring in a new smoking area. At present, Limerick is the only city in Ireland which does not have a youth hostel. Its unclear how many beds are proposed in this proposal. In 2014 and 2018, the businessman secured planning permission for a 20-bed hostel at the old pub. The difference with this application is that Mr Costello is seeking the change-of-use of part of the ground floor into a youth hostel. Before, it was only the upper floors which would be converted. At present, the building houses the old bar on the ground floor and six apartments over two floors above. If the development goes ahead, it would mean Limerick would have its own youth hostel for the first time since 2003 when An Oige in Pery Square shut. Prior to its closure in 2010, the venue located in Mungret Street was known as Molyneauxs. It was a famous GAA pub bought originally by Mick Molyneaux in the early 1950s and passed on to his son Jack. A prominent member of Claughaun GAA, he built up the business with wife, Peggy. It was then passed to Jacks son Michael Molyneaux. During the recession, it was sold in a receivership auction for just 40,000. Council will decide on the fresh plans by October 25. Mr Costello had not returned a request for comment as the Leader went to press last night. CULTURE Night in Limerick is set to amaze once again with a lineup of over 60 live events, showcasing the vibrant arts and culture scene of the city and county. The eagerly awaited Culture Night 2023 is scheduled for Friday, September 22, and promises an exciting array of activities that cater to all ages and tastes. Organised by the Limerick Arts Office at Limerick City and County Council, Culture Night is a yearly celebration that invites residents and visitors alike to explore the cultural, artistic, and creative treasures of Limerick. Galleries, museums, workshops, and studios will open their doors, welcoming both established patrons and newcomers to immerse themselves in a night of cultural richness. At the heart of the evening's program are two late-night events, set to captivate attendees. King John's Castle will be the backdrop for a live music concert, featuring an impressive lineup of local and national live electronic music acts. Produced by the Limerick Arts Office in collaboration with SIONNA Festival, this free event is now in its third year and promises an unforgettable night with artists such as Spray, B2B, Holly Lester, Chaz Maloney, Brawni, and Bon Voyage. Meanwhile, the "Top 8 Culture Night" event will be a fusion of dance performances, including Irish dance, Hip Hop, Break Dance, Afro fusion, and All Styles. Afterward, the party will continue at the Record Room at the Commercial Bar, where local and invited DJs, along with a saxophonist, will provide the soundtrack to the early hours of the morning. Additional live hubs of activity will be scattered throughout Limerick, from interactive exhibitions and the Pigtown Culture & Food Series. Culture Night won't be confined to the city; the county is also set to come alive with a variety of events. Towns like Cappamore, Kilmallock, Croom, Newcastle West, and Abbeyfeale will host a diverse range of cultural experiences. Newcastle West will offer taster workshops in crafts and activities for young people, accompanied by music and exhibitions at the Red Door Gallery. Garryspillane will resonate with traditional music and dance at the Glenbrohane community hall. Ballyneety's Men's Shed will open its doors for an evening of music and art, and Cappamore will feature a demonstration of Forge and blacksmithing courses by the LCETB. Information on all events can be found here. FROM Castletroy College to becoming billionaires, brothers Patrick and John Collison celebrate ten years in business with company Stripe. The pair grew up in Dromineer Co Tipperary and attended Castletroy College before graduating in 2019. Patrick won the BT Young Scientist of the Year award as a 16-year-old in 2005 during his studies in Castletroy College. The pair founded Stripe in 2010 with a vision to create a platform to make it easier for small businesses to accept payments from anywhere. The company marked its tenth anniversary serving Irish businesses, with the release of data revealing widespread, rapid growth in the countrys internet economy. A financial infrastructure platform for businesses, Stripe over the last decade, conditions for Irelands internet businesses have improved dramatically. Homegrown startups now have access to a more established venture capital ecosystem, a talent pool trained at the worlds largest technology companies and a network of experienced founders. Many of these companies have built tools that also help less technical businesses join the internet economy, enabling a dramatic increase in online economic activity across the country. Stripes data provides a window into Irelands growth compared to 2013 where only a few hundred Irish businesses used Stripe. Now, tens of thousands of ventures run on Stripe, with hundreds more joining every week. Over the last decade, Irish businesses have processed more than 20 billion on Stripe. Irelands software platforms and established digital native companies account for a significant portion of this cross-border money movement, with more than 80% of their payment volume coming from overseas last year. Limerick saw a 34% ratio of cross-border transactions processed on Stripe over the last decade. John Collison, Co-founder and President of Stripe said; Thinking back to when we launched Stripe, Irelands tech scene is like night and day. Tech founders would find it impossibly difficult to raise money and compete for talent, and small businesses simply didnt have the tools to operate online. Nowadays, Ireland produces software companies at industrial scale, and the internet economy is everywhere. With new talent coming through courses like the University of Limericks Immersive Software Engineering and accelerators like NDRC, Im excited to see what Irish founders build next. County-level online economic growth can occur in a variety of ways, sometimes its the result of a large homegrown enterprise transitioning online. Other times, its the result of many small local businesses ramping up internet commerce. The next decade looks particularly promising, technology that helps businesses operate online will soon permeate the Irish economy, unlocking growth for even more traditional industries. Every value chain will be redesigned around the internet, and new innovations from artificial intelligence to fintech regulation will unleash business models that arent possible today. With extra help for fast-growing startups, many more generations of technology companies will be built in Ireland. IFA president Tim Cullinan has said dairy farm families feel betrayed by Minister McConologue and the government following the decision on the Nitrates derogation. I have spoken to many dairy farmers since this was announced and a feeling of shock and betrayal is the mood out there," said Mr Cullinan. "Most who are in derogation are farming small to average size farms and this is going to make many of them unviable unless they can find expensive land to rent, that they actually do not require other than for nitrates calculation purposes. In the last 10 years, dairy farmers have followed government policy and invested on their farms. Now a change in policy will leave a generation of family farms facing a serious threat to their viability, he said. The lack of support from the government is startling. Derogation farmers have had ever more stringent rules imposed on them over the last number of years, the latest being banding at the start of 2023. "Instead of allowing time for the new measures to take effect and work with farmers on the journey to improving water quality, this blunt instrument is being imposed. "There was no consultation when the Department of Agriculture agreed to this mid-term review and Teagasc have indicated it will result in negligible if any improvements for water." The IFA president said the Nitrates announcement came after the Ministers decision to write to farmers advising that certain payments including ANC and the Basic Payment would be paid later in 2023 compared to previous years. In addition, the Departments failure to approve TAMS applications for 2023 is causing huge issues for farmers who cannot proceed with building before the winter. Quite simply, this government is failing farmers, Mr Cullinan concluded. Irish Farmers Association Irish Farm Centre, Bluebell, Dublin 12, Ireland, D12 YXW5 Tel: +353 1 450 0266 Email: info@ifa.ie | Website: www.ifa.ie *Sponsored Content Stock Market News PHNX News - London open: Stocks flat as risk appetite declines ahead of central bank decisions 18-09-2023 00:38 Stock News headlines are gathered from financial news sources around the web. Views and opinions on each item are from their respective authors and website. They are not opinions of LiveCharts.co.uk In 2019, scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) did something unusual in modern medicinethey found a new antibiotic, halicin. In May this year another team found a second antibiotic, abaucin. What marked these two compounds out was not only their potential for use against two of the most dangerous known antibiotic-resistant bacteria, but also how they were identified. In both cases, the researchers had used an artificial-intelligence (AI) model to search through millions of candidate compounds to identify those that would work best against each superbug". The model had been trained on the chemical structures of a few thousand known antibiotics and how well (or not) they had worked against the bugs in the lab. During this training the model had worked out links between chemical structures and success at damaging bacteria. Once the AI spat out its shortlist, the scientists tested them in the lab and identified their antibiotics. If discovering new drugs is like searching for a needle in a haystack, says Regina Barzilay, a computer scientist at MIT who helped to find abaucin and halicin, AI acts like a metal detector. To get the candidate drugs from lab to clinic will take many years of medical trials. But there is no doubt that AI accelerated the initial trial-and-error part of the process. It changes what is possible, says Dr Barzilay. With AI, the type of questions that we will be asking will be very different from what were asking today." Drug discovery is not alone in being jolted by the potential of AI. Researchers tackling many of the worlds most complicated and important problemsfrom forecasting weather to searching for new materials for batteries and solar panels and controlling nuclear-fusion reactionsare all turning to AI in order to augment or accelerate their progress. The potential is enormous. AI could usher in a new renaissance of discovery," argues Demis Hassabis, co-founder of Google DeepMind, an AI lab based in London, acting as a multiplier for human ingenuity." He has compared AI to the telescope, an essential technology that will let scientists see farther and understand more than with the naked eye alone. View Full Image (Graphic: The Economist) Where have you been? Though it has been part of the scientific toolkit since the 1960s, for most of its life AI has been stuck within disciplines where scientists were already well-versed in computer codeparticle physics, for example, or mathematics. By 2023, however, with the rise of deep learning, more than 99% of research fields were producing AI-related results, according to CSIRO, Australias science agency (see chart). Democratisation is the thing that is causing this explosion," says Mark Girolami, chief scientist at the Alan Turing Institute in London. What used to require a computer-science degree and lines of arcane programming languages can now be done with user-friendly AI tools, often made to work after a query to ChatGPT, OpenAIs chatbot. Thus scientists have easy access to what is essentially a dogged, superhuman research assistant that will solve equations and tirelessly sift through enormous piles of data to look for any patterns or correlations within. In materials science, for example, the problem is similar to that in drug discoverythere are an unfathomable number of possible compounds. When researchers at the University of Liverpool were looking for materials that would have the very specific properties required to build better batteries, they used an AI model known as an autoencoder" to search through all 200,000 of the known, stable crystalline compounds in the Inorganic Crystal Structure Database, the worlds largest such repository. The AI had previously learned the most important physical and chemical properties required for the new battery material to achieve its goals and applied those conditions to the search. It successfully reduced the pool of candidates for scientists to test in the lab from thousands to just five, saving time and money. The final candidatea material combining lithium, tin, sulphur and chlorinewas novel, though it is too soon to tell whether or not it will work commercially. The AI method, however, is being used by researchers to discover other sorts of new materials. What did you dream? AI can also be used to predict. The shapes into which proteins twist themselves after they are made in a cell are vital to making them work. Scientists do not yet know how proteins fold. But in 2021, Google DeepMind developed AlphaFold, a model that had taught itself to predict the structure of a protein from its amino-acid sequence alone. Since it was released, AlphaFold has produced a database of more than 200m predicted protein structures, which has already been used by over 1.2m researchers. For example, Matthew Higgins, a biochemist at the University of Oxford, used AlphaFold to figure out the shape of a protein in mosquitoes that is important for the malaria parasite that the insects often carry. He was then able to combine the predictions from AlphaFold to work out which parts of the protein would be the easiest to target with a drug. Another team used AlphaFold to findin just 30 daysthe structure of a protein that influences how a type of liver cancer proliferates, thereby opening the door to designing a new targeted treatment. AlphaFold has also contributed to the understanding of other bits of biology. The nucleus of a cell, for example, has gates to bring in material to produce proteins. A few years ago, scientists knew the gates existed, but knew little about their structure. Using AlphaFold, scientists predicted the structure and contributed to understanding about the internal mechanisms of the cell. We dont really completely understand how [the AI] came up with that structure," says Pushmeet Kohli, one of AlphaFolds inventors who now heads Google DeepMinds AI for Science" team. But once it has made the structure, it is actually a foundation that now, the whole scientific community can build on top of." AI is also proving useful in speeding up complex computer simulations. Weather models, for example, are based on mathematical equations that describe the state of Earths atmosphere at any given time. The supercomputers that forecast weather, however, are expensive, consume a lot of power and take a lot of time to carry out their calculations. And models must be run again and again to keep up with the constant inflow of data from weather stations around the world. Climate scientists, and private companies, are therefore beginning to deploy machine learning to speed things up. Pangu-Weather, an AI built by Huawei, a Chinese company, can make predictions about weather a week in advance thousands of times faster and cheaper than the current standard, without any meaningful dip in accuracy. FourCastNet, a model built by Nvidia, an American chipmaker, can generate such forecasts in less than two seconds, and is the first AI model to accurately predict rain at a high spatial resolution, which is important information for predicting natural disasters such as flash floods. Both these AI models are trained to predict the weather by learning from observational data, or the outputs of supercomputer simulations. And they are just the startNvidia has already announced plans to build a digital twin of Earth, called Earth-2", a computer model that the company hopes will be able to predict climate change at a more regional level, several decades in advance. Physicists trying to harness the power of nuclear fusion, meanwhile, have been using AI to control complex bits of kit. One approach to fusion research involves creating a plasma (a superheated, electrically charged gas) of hydrogen inside a doughnut-shaped vessel called a tokamak. When hot enough, around 100mC, particles in the plasma start to fuse and release energy. But if the plasma touches the walls of the tokamak, it will cool down and stop working, so physicists contain the gas within a magnetic cage. Finding the right configuration of magnetic fields is fiendishly difficult (a bit like trying to hold a lump of jelly with knitting wool", according to one physicist) and controlling it manually requires devising mathematical equations to predict what the plasma will do and then making thousands of small adjustments every second to around ten different magnetic coils. By contrast, an AI control system built by scientists at Google DeepMind and EPFL in Lausanne, Switzerland, allowed scientists to try out different shapes for the plasma in a computer simulationand the AI then worked out how best to get there. Automating and speeding up physical experiments and laboratory work is another area of interest. Self-driving laboratories" can plan an experiment, execute it using a robotic arm, and then analyse the results. Automation can make discovering new compounds, or finding better ways of making old compounds, up to a thousand times faster. Youve been in the pipeline Generative AI, which exploded into public consciousness with the arrival of ChatGPT in 2022 but which scientists have been playing with for much longer, has two main scientific uses. First, it can be used to generate data. Super-resolution" AI models can enhance cheap, low-resolution electron-microscope images into high-resolution ones that would otherwise have been too expensive to record. The AI compares a small area of a material or a biological sample in high resolution with the same thing recorded at a lower resolution. The model learns the difference between the two resolutions and can then translate between them. View Full Image (Graphic: The Economist) And just as a large language model (LLM) can generate fluent sentences by predicting the next best word in a sequence, generative molecular models are able to build molecules, atom by atom, bond by bond. LLMs use a mix of self-taught statistics and trillions of words of training text culled from the internet to write in ways that plausibly mimic a human. Trained on vast databases of known drugs and their properties, models for de novo molecular design" can figure out which molecular structures are most likely to do which things, and they build accordingly. Verseon, a pharmaceutical company based in California, has created drug candidates in this way, several of which are now being tested on animals, and onea precision anticoagulantthat is in the first phase of clinical trials. Like the new antibiotics and battery materials identified by AI, chemicals designed by algorithms will also need to undergo the usual trials in the real world before their effectiveness can be assessed. A more futuristic use for LLMs comes from Igor Grossmann, a psychologist at the University of Waterloo. If an LLM could be prompted with real (or fabricated) back stories so as to mirror accurately what human participants might say, they could theoretically replace focus groups, or be used as agents in economics research. LLMs could be trained with various different personas, and their behaviour could then be used to simulate experiments, whose results, if interesting, could later be confirmed with human subjects. LLMs are already making scientists themselves more efficient. According to GitHub, using tools like its Copilot" can help coders write software 55% faster. For all scientists, reading the background research in a field before embarking on a project can be a daunting taskthe sheer scale of the modern scientific literature is too vast for a person to manage. Elicit, a free online AI tool created by Ought, an American non-profit research lab, can help by using an LLM to comb through the mountains of research literature and summarise the important ones much faster than any human could. It is already used by students and younger scientists, many of whom find it useful to find papers to cite or to define a research direction in the face of a mountain of text. LLMs can even help to extract structured informationsuch as every experiment done using a specific drugfrom millions of documents. Widening access to knowledge within disciplines could also be achieved with AI. Each detector at the Large Hadron Collider at CERN in Geneva requires its own specialised teams of operators and analysts. Combining and comparing data from them is impossible without physicists from each detector coming together to share their expertise. This is not always feasible for theoretical physicists who want to quickly test new ideas. Miguel Arratia, a physicist at the University of California, Riverside, has therefore proposed using AI to integrate measurements from multiple fundamental physics experiments (and even cosmological observations) so that theoretical physicists can quickly explore, combine and re-use the data in their own work. AI models have demonstrated that they can process data, and automate calculations and some lab work (see table). But Dr Girolami warns that whereas AI might be useful to help scientists fill in gaps in knowledge, the models still struggle to push beyond the edges of what is already known. These systems are good at interpolationconnecting the dotsbut less so at extrapolation, imagining where the next dot might go. And there are some hard problems that even the most successful of todays AI systems cannot yet handle. AlphaFold, for example, does not get all proteins right all the time. Jane Dyson, a structural biologist at the Scripps Research Institute in La Jolla, California, says that for disordered" proteins, which are particularly relevant to her research, the AIs predictions are mostly garbage. Its not a revolution that puts all of our scientists out of business." And AlphaFold does not yet explain why proteins fold in the ways they do. Though perhaps the AI has a theory we just have not been able to grasp yet," says Dr Kohli. Despite those limitations, structural biologists still reckon that AlphaFold has made their work more efficient. The database filled with AlphaFolds protein predictions allows scientists to work out the likely structure of a protein in a few seconds, as opposed to the years and tens of thousands of dollars it might have taken otherwise. And speeding up the pace of scientific research and discovery, making efficiencies wherever possible, holds plenty of promise. In a recent report on AI in science the OECD, a club of rich countries, said that while AI is penetrating all domains and stages of science, its full potential is far from realised." The prize, it concluded, could be enormous: Accelerating the productivity of research could be the most economically and socially valuable of all the uses of artificial intelligence." Welcome to the machine If AI tools manage to boost the productivity of research, the world would no doubt get the multiplier for human ingenuity" predicted by Dr Hassabis. But AI holds more potential still: just like telescopes and microscopes let scientists see more of the world, the probabilistic, data-driven models used in AI will increasingly allow scientists to better model and understand complex systems. Fields like climate science and structural biology are already at the point where scientists know that complicated processes are happening, but researchers so far have mainly tried to understand those subjects using top-down rules, equations and simulations. AI can help scientists approach problems from the bottom up insteadmeasure lots of data first, and use algorithms to come up with the rules, patterns, equations and scientific understanding later. If the past few years have seen scientists dip their toes into the shallow waters of AI, the next decade and beyond will be when they have to dive into its depths and swim towards the horizon. Curious about the world? To enjoy our mind-expanding science coverage, sign up to Simply Science, our weekly subscriber-only newsletter. 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com New Delhi: The Delhi high court (HC) on Monday rejected American food and beverage maker PepsiCos request for an injunction in a trademark dispute with Parle Agro Pvt. Ltd over the use of the For The Bold" tagline for its new drink, B Fizz. However, the court did limit Parle from altering the Bold" label or from prominently featuring the Bold" tagline in any of its beverage advertising till a resolution is reached in Parles challenge to PepsiCos Bold" trademark registration. The court said any such ads must be immediately removed and discontinued. If Parle fails to comply with the order, PepsiCo may approach the court, it added. The HC deemed Parles challenge to PepsiCos trademark as tenable" and scheduled a hearing for October, with no room for adjournment. In 2021, PepsiCo had initiated legal action against Parle over its new juice-based beverage, B Fizz, featuring the tagline Be The Fizz. For The Bold". The drink was endorsed by celebrities like Priyanka Chopra and is available in over 20,000 cities across India. PepsiCo contended that For The Bold" is a globally registered trademark for its Doritos nacho chips brand and is seeking 2 crore in damages, alleging unfair trade practices by Parle Agro. In 2017, PepsiCo began producing Doritos in India at its Kolkata plant. Doritos is a popular snack brand, worth billions of dollars in the US. PepsiCo, known for brands like Lays, Cheetos, Gatorade, Mountain Dew and Quaker, reported double-digit revenue growth in the first quarter of 2023. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! MUMBAI : Tata Capital Ltd is restructuring its operations and expanding its board as part of the Tata groups plan to take the non-bank lender public, two people with direct knowledge of the matter said. The group is targeting an IPO (for Tata Capital) in 2025. The board has been expanded, and mergers of some of the group firms under Tata Capital have been done as a part of the IPO plan," one of the two people said on condition of anonymity. The conglomerate is seeking a valuation similar to Mukesh Ambanis recently listed non-banking financial company (NBFC), Jio Financial Services Ltd. View Full Image Graphic: Mint Currently, it is a work in progress, with the IPO process to begin in March 2024 with the appointment of investment bankers," said the second person, also on condition of anonymity. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in September 2022 classified both Tata Capital and parent Tata Sons Ltd among the 16 upper-layer NBFCs, requiring them to go public within three years from the date of the categorization. In Tata Capitals case, the deadline is September 2025. We will comply with RBI guidelines," said Rajiv Sabharwal, the managing director of Tata Capital. As part of the plan to go public, Tata Capital has nearly completed the merger of some of its key subsidiaries with itself, according to the two people. Tata Capitals units include Tata Capital Financial Services Ltd, Tata Capital Housing Finance Ltd, Tata Cleantech Capital Ltd, Tata Securities Ltd, Tata Capital Pte. Ltd, Tata Capital Advisors Pte. Ltd and Tata Capital Plc. Tata Capital expects RBIs approval of the ongoing mergers by the end of the year. Tata Capitals unlisted shares are trading at 425 in the grey market. At this price, the company is valued at about 1.5 trillion. According to a grey market group, the shares touched a record 560 a few weeks ago. Tata Capitals promoters may dilute a 10-20% stake, resulting in one of the largest IPOs ever, the people said. Tata Capitals board, too, has been restructured in the run-up to the public issue. Tata group veterans F.N. Subedar and Aarthi Subramanian are non-executive directors of Tata Capital. The board of Tata Sons financial services division has been expanded to include two independent directors V.S. Radhakrishnan, a senior retired executive from the State Bank of India, and Mathew Cyriac, the co-founder of Florintree Advisors, an alternative asset manager. The board also includes Varsha Purandare, the former managing director of SBI Capital Markets, and retired central banker Malvika Sinha. Tata Sons, however, has not initiated any plan to get listed, especially considering the widely diversified nature of its businesses. The Tata group is more likely to focus on Tata Capital IPO ahead of Tata Sons, said another person tracking the group. They would rather fight the battle (with RBI) on Tata Sons rather than Tata Capital," the person said, also on condition of anonymity. Tata Sons units, Tata Technologies and Tata Play, are also preparing for their IPOs. According to a letter of offer, a copy of which has been reviewed by Mint, Tata Capital started a process to raise at least 999.90 crore through a rights issue on Monday by offering at least 61.3 million shares at 162.90 apiece. The rights issue will close on 24 September. In the rights issue, Tata Capital will allot shares to existing shareholders in the ratio of 1:58 (or one share for every 58 held). Tata Capitals key shareholders include Tata Sons Pvt. Ltd (94.62%), Tata group firms (2.51%), TCL Employee Welfare Trust (1.47%) and others, according to the rights issue document. Tata Capital will use the rights issue proceeds for general corporate purposes and redemption of the preference shares of the firms. During FY23, Tata Capitals disbursals grew 42% to 75,099 crore from the previous year, with the share of retail and MSME advances at 80% of the loan book. The companys net profit rose 80% to 2,975 crore in FY23. Mayur Bhalerao contributed to this story. Heres why fintech companies want you to opt for their debit and credit cards : A superior online banking experience, albeit such cards being issued in association with banks. Fancy that? Lets take the case of Niyo Solutions. The firm has partnerships with Equitas, DCB Bank, Yes Bank and SBM Bank for its different offeringsprepaid cards for blue-collar salaried professionals, savings account -linked debit cards and the zero forex markup travel card, known as Niyo Global. In any case, by signing up with Niyo, you open a regular savings account with one of the partner banks. For a debit card, you have to open a zero balance savings account with either Equitas or DCB Bank, whereas its credit cards are issued in partnership with SBM bank. For the prepaid cards, it has a tie up with YES Bank. Niyo facilitates the application process and lets you bank through its mobile app. All the savings account functions that a customer can do with a bank can be done with Niyo as well. We, as a tech company, make the banking experience better through our mobile application with superior user interface," said Vinay Bagri, co-founder and CEO, NiYo. To be sure, you can operate the same savings account through the partner banks netbanking service and by visiting the bank branch. View Full Image Graphic: Mint Next, you get a debit or credit card linked to this savings account. The credit card, however, is a secured card. To be sure, secured cards can only be taken against a fixed deposit (FD). The credit limit is equal to the FD amount. If the customer defaults on bill payments, the card is blocked and the FD is used to settle the outstanding bill. The card is unblocked only after the customer pledges a fresh FD of the entire amount. Most importantly, the credit card is issued only to passport holders. Currently, credit cards are offered only under our Niyo Global programme," said Bagri. Niyos flagship product is the Niyo Global card offered as both debit and credit cards. In this story, Mint breaks down the salient features to help you decide whether you should get it. Niyo Global This is a travel card that is offered both as a debit and credit card. Do note that it is not a prepaid forex card. The credit card is offered in association with SBM bank. We started offering credit cards in January this year and the reward system was launched in July," said Bagri. Note that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has barred SBM bank from transactions under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS). This means if you open an account with SBM bank, international transactions done with debit card will not get through. Domestic transactions with debit card and international payments made with credit card will work," said Bagri. Reward programmes are available with both the debit and credit card. The secured credit cards have a reward rate of 1%, which means you earn 1 on every 100 spent. The rewards are credited in the form of global coins, with each coin valued at 10 paise. The reward rate on debit card transactions is 0.2%, which means every 100 spent earns you 20 paise or 2 global coins. These reward rates apply to domestic transactions. As for international transactions, debit cards dont earn anything while the reward rate on credit cards is 0.2%. A customer can earn global coins on all domestic transactions, except on fuel charges and rent payments. The coins get accumulated in the Niyo account and can be redeemed on your purchases made with Niyo card after earning a minimum 100 worth of coins (1,000 coins). Once you have 1,000 coins, 100 is automatically redeemed from global coins on the next purchase that you make," Bagri explained. Global coins can be redeemed on both domestic and international transactions. Compared to the industry average, the reward rate on Niyo Global cards is low. However, the reward system is not the major pull in Niyos case as its unique selling point is that its a zero forex mark-up card. A forex markup is the fee that a bank or credit card company charges for enabling international transactions on their card. We dont offer rewards on international transactions because we have waived off the markup fee," said Bagri. Most banks charge forex markup on international payments done with credit and debit cards but also offer rewards on credit card transactions, which may partially or fully offset the forex markup. For instance, on a credit card that earns 2% cashback for international payments and charges 2.5% forex markup, you will essentially pay 0.5% in forex markup fee. In a zero forex markup card, the forex markup charged by the bank is waived off, but the markup levied by the payments network is charged to the customer. Its miniscule, at 20-50 paise. Banks charge about 2.5-3.5% forex mark-up but we have waived that off," said Bagri. There are a few zero mark-up debit and credit cards available in the market and Niyo scores over these options. For instance, debit cards offered by Induslnd bank are available only for members of its premium banking programmes Exclusive (minimum 1.25 lakh salary or savings account balance of 1 lakh) and Pioneer (a net relationship value of 30 lakh is required). Niyo lets you open zero balance savings accounts. Other fintech companies, including Jupiter and Fi, have relatively lenient criteria on their zero forex markup debit cards. In the case of Fi, accounts that require 10,000 minimum balance are offered zero forex markup of up to 50,000 monthly spends, and those with 50,000 minimum balance requirement get zero forex fee on all spends. When these conditions are not met, Fi charges 2.5% forex mark-up. Jupiter offers zero forex markup on 25,000 and 1 lakh monthly spends on non-salary and salary accounts, respectively. As for zero forex mark-up credit cards, IDFC First Wow is a secured card, like Niyo. RBL Bank World Safari is an unsecured credit card but charges an annual fee of 3,000. Niyo Global cards are a good payment option for people who travel overseas frequently and for students studying outside India. Sumanta Mandal, founder, Technofino, a digital platform specializing in reviewing credit cards and other banking products, said For credit card users, its a good backup card for instances when one needs to withdraw cash from an ATM. For those who dont use credit cards, Niyo Global can be their main card for foreign spends." ATM withdrawal with a Niyo Global card is charged a fee, which is decided by the partner bank. Bagri told Mint that Niyo will launch its first unsecured credit card in partnership with Federal Bank in October. Niyo Solutions claims that it has issued about 1.5 million Niyo Global cards so far, out of which about 1 million cardholders have an active account with balance in the savings bank account. The national capital on Monday morning registered a minimum temperature of 25.3 degrees Celsius, and the meteorological department has predicted the likelihood of light rain throughout the day. At 8:30 am, the relative humidity stood at 78 percent, as reported by the India Meteorological Department. The Safdarjung Observatory, which serves as the city's main weather station, recorded a minimum temperature of 25.3 degrees Celsius, which is typical for this season. The monsoon trough is currently south of Delhi and passing through Rajasthan. There is also an active weather system over central India. Delhi-NCR [National Capital Region] is therefore receiving some moisture from both these sources and there are chances of scattered light rain until Friday." The maximum temperature is anticipated to remain at approximately 33 degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a generally cloudy sky with the possibility of light rain later in the day. Also Read: Weather Updates: IMD predicts heavy rainfall in Gujarat, Rajasthan till September 19. Check here Meanwhile, the Delhi Regional Meteorological Centre has forecasted overcast conditions in certain areas of the Delhi National Capital Region (NCR) until September 20. September 18 is anticipated to have predominantly cloudy weather with the possibility of scattered light rain and drizzle in various parts of Delhi NCR. The monsoon's resurgence indicates that its withdrawal process has not yet begun across the country. Typically, the monsoon withdraws from Rajasthan by September 17 and from Delhi by September 25. Until there is rain across the region, the withdrawal will not be declared. Once there is a break in rain activity and several districts are dry, then the withdrawal criteria can be met," said a second IMD official. Officials from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) have stated that this ongoing active phase of the monsoon in northwest and central India will cause a delay in its withdrawal, as more rainfall is expected until Friday. Monday morning saw strong surface winds, contributing to a further enhancement in air quality. At 10 am, the average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 60, categorized as "satisfactory," in contrast to the 65 AQI, also categorized as "satisfactory," recorded at 4 pm on the previous Sunday. (With inputs from PTI) "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! The city of Bharuch in Gujarat is currently grappling with a flood-like situation as incessant rainfall continues to pummel the region. The heavy downpours have resulted in rising water levels and inundated areas in the city. In response to reports of flooding in numerous villages caused by the release of water from the Narmada Dam, the Narmada district administration has taken precautionary measures. They have ordered the closure of schools and colleges on Monday as a safety measure. Earlier, increased water levels in the Narmada River had prompted alerts in several villages spanning the districts of Narmada, Bharuch, and Vadodara. Amid a surge in water levels in Narmada, SDRF teams have been deployed in the district. "Narmada Corporation is making careful efforts to maintain the water level in the dam and continuously reduce the impact of floods, they said. Earlier on Sunday, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) conducted a successful rescue mission in Gujarat's Bharuch district, where heavy rainfall had left 105 individuals stranded in low-lying areas. This operation took place specifically in Nikora Village within Bharuch district. Also Read: Several Mumbai-Gujarat trains cancelled due to heavy rainfall. Check details here Taking to social media platform, X, Gujarat government's Directorate of Information, said, #Team6NDRF, with the help of civil administration, rescued total 105 citizens trapped due to heavy rains in low lying area of Nikora Village in Dist: Bharuch #Gujarat and shifted them to a safe place. #GujaratRains #RescueOperations." As many as 23 out of 30 gates of the Sardar Sarovar Narmada dam in Kevadia Colony were opened to release 5.5 lakh cusecs of water on Saturday. In response to reports of flooding in numerous villages caused by the release of water from the Narmada Dam, the Narmada district administration has taken precautionary measures. They have ordered the closure of schools and colleges on Monday as a safety measure. Earlier, increased water levels in the Narmada River had prompted alerts in several villages spanning the districts of Narmada, Bharuch, and Vadodara. As reported by ANI citing an official said there is a possibility of the release of 19 lakh cusecs of water from the Narmada Dam today late at night on September 16, regarding which the district administration has asked the people of low-line areas adjacent to the banks of the river Narmada, such as the villages of Dabhoi, Shinor, and Karjan tehsil, to move to safe places. (With inputs from ANI) "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Parliament Special Session: A meeting of Floor leaders of the INDIA alliance's parties is underway at LoP in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge's office in Parliament House to chalk out the strategy for the Floor of the House, according to ANI reports. The five-day special session of Parliament is all set to begin on Monday during which the parliamentary proceedings will shift from the old to the adjacent new state-of-the-art building on September 19. Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi on Sunday stated that the Session will provide 5 sittings spread over a period of 5 days, besides informing that eight legislative items are likely to be taken up during this session. "Parliamentary journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha - achievements, experiences, memories and learnings" will also be discussed. On Sunday, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar hoisted the national flag atop "Gaja Dwar" of the new Parliament building. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla was also present on the occasion. The Special Session of the Parliament will be held from September 18 to 22. After weeks of no information about the agenda, the government last week announced an agenda that included bills to be taken up for consideration and a discussion on the "Parliamentary journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha - achievements, experiences, memories and learnings". Earlier, on Sunday, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Joshi requested all parties for active cooperation and support for the smooth functioning of the two Houses of Parliament. After the conclusion of the function in the Central Hall, both Houses will meet in their respective Chambers in the New Parliament House. The announcement of the Special Session came as a surprise in political circles with the parties gearing up for assembly polls in five states later this year. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! S. Jaishankar has rejected the conventional view that sees the West as adversarial to developing countries. India's External Affairs Minister highlighted the complexities of today's global landscape while also shedding light on the rising influence of the Global South. The minister was interviewed by former Indian diplomat T.P. Sreenivasan for Asianet News during his visit to Thiruvananthapuram for the launch of the PM Vishwakarma scheme. "I think we need to get over the syndrome of the past that the West is the bad guy and on the other side are the developing countries. The world is more complicated, the problems are much more complicated than that," the minister said. Jaishankar stressed that the West should not be singled out as the source of economic stress for Asia and Africa. Instead, he hinted at Chinese economic policies being a primary source of concern, particularly for nations suffering from market inundation by low-cost goods. On the issue of China's absence from the recent G20 Summit held in New Delhi, the minister said any interpretation of the Chinese president's no-show would be speculative. He suggested that India's ability to lead the Global South had not gone unnoticed and was not necessarily linked to China's diplomatic moves. While discussing the G20 Summit, Jaishankar indicated that India's presidency had led to a renewed focus on growth and development. He also highlighted the Indian initiative to shift the global conversation toward the Global South. He acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decisive leadership" in focusing on the Global South and the African Union's membership during the G20 Summit, PTI reported. According to him, India's leadership in conducting the summit signalled a change in the balance of global decision-making. He pointed out that the agenda didn't have to be decided by traditional powers like the P5 or the West. Discussing the Global South's significance, the minister described it not as a defined group, but as a sentiment of solidarity among developing countries. Jaishankar also commented on the increasing political space given to the Khalistan group in Canada, emphasising that nations must exercise greater responsibility. On India's diplomatic finesse regarding the Ukraine crisis at the G20 Summit, he said that a balanced stance was achieved after "give and take" negotiations, suggesting that the New Delhi outcome was distinctly different from previous summits. (With PTI inputs) "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! New Delhi: The central government is not considering enabling a revenue sharing model between over-the-top (OTT) players or apps and the telecom service providers for using the telcos networks for carriage of the apps, said a top official in the ministry of communications. There is no thinking of creating revenue sharing mechanism between telecom service providers and OTTs," the official said, seeking anonymity. The official refuted reports suggesting that such a mechanism was in the works by the government. There has been no proposal to that effect." For a while, telcos have been demanding a share of the revenues earned by OTT platforms considering that some streaming apps have started offering bandwidth-heavy services and generating disproportionately high traffic, which is forcing telcos to upgrade and enhance the capacity of their networks. Therefore, telecom service providers are seeking a contribution from the OTTs for network expenses. In fact, Cellular Operators Association of India, which represents interests of carriers, has argued that large OTT players earn from consumers as well as advertisers, and hence suggested that a fair share of revenues must be share with the telcos that do not earn from carriage fees for the content. OTT platforms, represented by Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), have opposed the move terming the demands as unreasonable and argued that such a move will hurt the net neutrality rules announced by the ministry of communications in 2018. The views, shared publicly, have also been shared with the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) that recently floated a consultation paper on Regulatory Mechanism for OTT Communication Services, and Selective Banning of OTT Services". Last week, Trai extended the date for submission of feedback till month end, following representation by stakeholders. The telecom regulator reportedly plans to issue a consultation paper on the regulation of OTT services. The official said OTT across the board, including communication apps will be regulated by the ministry of electronics and information technology under the IT Act, and it was left out of the Cabinet-approved Indian Telecommunications Bill. Anything to do with OTT will be in the IT Act. OTT will not be part of the new telecom bill," the official added. While the new telecom bill is likely to be taken up for passing during the winter session of Parliament, the IT Act itself is undergoing a revamp and will be refreshed as the Digital India Act, the draft of which will be brought out for stakeholder consultations by the end of the month. A balanced approach will be taken for the regulation of OTTs in the Digital India Act," the official said. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Prime Minister Narendra Modi kick started the Parliament special session by reminiscing the memories of the old Parliament building saying that never thought will get so much love. PM also lauded the contributions o f Jawahar Lal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and all other prime ministers while remembering the bitter-sweet memories. When I first entered this building as member, I never imagined that I will get so much love from people," the PM said Emotional moment to bid goodbye to this building; many bitter-sweet memories have been associated with it." Further speaking about the best moments in the building, he noted, Post-Independence, many expressed doubts about country's success; but the power of this Parliament proved naysayers wrong" And went on to add, Biggest achievement of 75 years of this House is the ever-growing trust of the people in Parliament" On the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, on Tuesday, the working of the parliament will be shifted to the new building. Noting the same, We will move to new Parliament building, but this old building will also always inspire coming generations" Modi remembers old prime ministers Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday lauded the vision of first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru and subsequent leaders, including Lal Bahadur Shastri, P V Narasimha Rao and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, but also reminded the Lok Sabha of the 'cash-for-vote' scam during the Manmohan Singh government. He remembered Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Chandrashekhar and Lal Krishna Advani for enriching the House. The prime minister also lauded the contribution of B R Ambedkar, saying his vision for industrialisation, which was aimed at bringing social justice in the country during the first government of independent India, continues to remain at the heart of every industrial policy even today. At the same time, there have been sad and emotive moments when Parliament witnessed loss of three serving prime ministers -- Nehru, Shastri and Indira Gandhi -- and they were paid rich tributes, he noted. A historic session: PM Modi on special Parliament session Ahead of the session, PM Modi on Monday said that the special session of Parliament will witness historic decisions". PM Modi said that all decisions of the time to make India a developed country by 2047 will be taken in the new Parliament building." "At this time, we all are feeling an atmosphere of enthusiasm and a new confidence in the entire country. At the same time, this session of Parliament is taking place. This session is short, but in terms of time, it is very big. This is a session of historic decisions. A speciality of this session is that the journey of 75 years is starting from a new destination," he said. "Now, while taking forward the journey from a new place, we have to make the country a developed country by 2047. For this, all the decisions will be taken in the new Parliament building," he added. The five-day special session of Parliament began at 11 am today. A "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! American investor Ray Dalio offered his bullish outlook on India's economic potential. A particularly intriguing highlight was Dalio's comparison of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Chinese revolutionary Deng Xiaoping, the leader often credited with revolutionising the countrys economy. Dalio, the founder of Bridgewater Associates, was speaking at the All-In Summit 2023 at Royce Hall on UCLA's campus in Los Angeles, USA. He emphasised that - just as Deng catalysed China's economic surge, Modi could be the driving force behind India's development. I think Modi is a Deng Xiaoping," Dalio said. Dalio's views were voiced during the summit's podcast hosted by industry stalwarts Chamath Palihapitiya, Jason Calacanis, David Sacks and David Friedberg. He underscored India's high potential for growth over the next decade. Without revealing specific figures, he stated that Indias growth rate surpasses all other countries when evaluated through leading indicators and statistical measurements. While acknowledging the existence of issues and risks within the Indian context, Dalio was optimistic that none would derail India's promising trajectory. For him, these challenges are not substantial enough to impede the nation's growth. He cited internal religious issues pertaining to the Muslim population as an example, dismissing it as a non-factor in India's economic journey. The investor also pointed out the advantageous position of neutral countries in global geopolitics. Amid the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and China, Dalio argued that countries maintaining a neutral stance, like India, could emerge as the ultimate beneficiaries. Dalio's earlier comment on PM Modi In June, Dalio expressed his belief in India's immense potential and its transformative leader, PM Modi. Dalio said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a man whose time has come when Indias time has come." Describing Modi as a radical reformer, he said, The potential of India is enormous and you have now a radical reformer who has the ability to transform and the popularity to transform." "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! ABOUT THE AUTHOR Sounak Mukhopadhyay Sounak Mukhopadhyay, who also goes by the name Sounak Mukherjee, has been producing digital news since 2012. He's worked for the International Business Times, The Inquisitr, and Moneycontrol in the past. He's also contributed to Free Press Journal and TheRichest with feature articles. He covers news for a wide range of subjects including business, finance, economy, politics and sports. Before working with digital news publications, he worked as a freelance content writer. Read more from this author California on Monday filed of a lawsuit against five of the largest oil and gas companies in the world Exxon Mobil, Shell, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, and BP and the American Petroleum Institute (API) for allegedly engaging in a decades-long campaign of deception and creating statewide climate change-related harms in California. The complaint asserts that although the companies have known since at least the 1960s that the burning of fossil fuels would warm the planet and change our climate, they denied or downplayed climate change in public statements and marketing. The complaint filed in San Francisco County Superior Court, said the state has spent tens of billions of dollars to adapt to climate change and address the damages climate change has caused so far, and the state will need to spend multiples of that in the years to come. California Attorney General Rob Bonta, on behalf of the people of California, is seeking nuisance abatement through the creation of a fund to finance climate mitigation and adaptation efforts; injunctive relief to both protect Californias natural resources from pollution, impairment, and destruction as well as to prevent the companies from making any further false or misleading statements about the contribution of fossil fuel combustion to climate change; damages; and penalties. Oil and gas companies have privately known the truth for decades that the burning of fossil fuels leads to climate change but have fed us lies and mistruths to further their record-breaking profits at the expense of our environment. Enough is enough," said Attorney General Bonta. With our lawsuit, California becomes the largest geographic area and the largest economy to take these giant oil companies to court. From extreme heat to drought and water shortages, the climate crisis they have caused is undeniable. It is time they pay to abate the harm they have caused. We will meet the moment and fight tirelessly on behalf of all Californians, in particular those who live in environmental justice communities." For more than 50 years, Big Oil has been lying to us covering up the fact that theyve long known how dangerous the fossil fuels they produce are for our planet," California Governor Gavin Newsom said. California taxpayers shouldnt have to foot the bill for billions of dollars in damages wildfires wiping out entire communities, toxic smoke clogging our air, deadly heat waves, record-breaking droughts parching our wells. With this lawsuit, California is taking action to hold big polluters accountable and deliver the justice our people deserve," the lawsuit read. The complaint contains extensive evidence demonstrating that the defendants have long known about the catastrophic results caused by the use of fossil fuels. The lawsuit said, in 1968, API and its members received a report from the Stanford Research Institute, which it had hired to assess the state of research on environmental pollutants, including carbon dioxide. The report stated: Significant temperature changes are almost certain to occur by the year 2000, and . . . there seems to be no doubt that the potential damage to our environment could be severe." In 1978, an internal Exxon memo stated that [p]resent thinking holds that man has a time window of five to ten years before the need for hard decisions regarding changes in energy strategies might become critical." More recently, the defendants have deceptively portrayed themselves and their products as part of the climate solution. Shell claims online that it aims to become a net-zero emissions energy business by 2050, and that it is tackling climate change." However, Shells CEO told the BBC on July 6, 2023 that cutting oil and gas production would be dangerous and irresponsible." "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! US President Joe Biden on Sunday responded with sarcasm when asked about the inquiry launched by Speaker Kevin McCarthy last week. Lots of luck," said Biden while deriding the House's impeachment probe against him. McCarthy initiated the probe saying Republicans have uncovered serious and credible allegations about the president, according to a report published by Bloomberg. The formal inquiry is expected to focus on seeking to implicate the president in his son Hunter Bidens overseas business affairs, though the full scope of the investigation isnt clear. However, Biden has denied GOP allegations. In August, the US President said that he never talked business with his son's business associates, Bloomberg reported. Last week, he scoffed at the move propelled by hard-line Republicans, saying that best I can tell, they want to impeach me because they want to shut down the government." McCarthy has toed the line trying to please far-right conservatives who have threatened to remove him as speaker if their demands arent met. The House has passed only one of 12 bills that are typically used to fund the government, raising a serious possibility of a partial federal government shutdown after the fiscal ends on September 30, as per Bloomberg reports. On Sunday, McCarthy said that he would bring a defense spending bill to a vote "win or lose" this week, despite resistance from hardline fellow Republicans. The measure, which is unlikely to become law, also includes conservative restrictions on immigration and the U.S. border with Mexico. Republicans have said that such a deal could allow the House to move forward on the defense spending bill this week, Reuters reported. Republicans hold a narrow 221-212 majority in the chamber as they bicker over spending and pursue a new impeachment drive against President Joe Biden while the United States faces a possible fourth partial government shutdown in a decade. The Republican-controlled House and Democratic-led Senate have until October 1 to avoid a partial shutdown by enacting appropriations bills that Biden, a Democrat, can sign into law, or by passing a short-term stopgap spending measure to give lawmakers more time for debate. (With inputs from agencies) "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! A secret Pakistani arms sales to the United States helped facilitate a controversial bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) earlier this year, according to a report published by The Intercept, an online American non-profit news organization. The arms sales were made for the purpose of supplying the Ukrainian military, signaling Pakistani involvement in a conflict it had faced US pressure to take sides on. The report stated that the revelation is a window into the kind of behind-the-scenes maneuvering between financial and political elites that rarely are exposed to the public, even as the public pays the price, ANI reported, citing The Intercept. Pakistan faced major protests in the face of harsh structural policy reforms demanded by the Washington-based financial body as terms for its recent bailout package. There were several strikes in the country in response to the measures. The protests are the latest chapter in a year-and-a-half-long political crisis roiling the country. With the encouragement of the US, the Pakistani military in April 2022, helped organize a no-confidence vote to remove Prime Minister Imran Khan. Ahead of Khans ouster, US State Department diplomats privately expressed anger to their Pakistani counterparts over what they called Pakistans aggressively neutral" stance on the Ukraine war under Khan. They warned of dire consequences if Khan remained in power and promised all would be forgiven" if he were removed. After Khans ouster, Islamabad emerged as a useful supporter of the US and its allies in the war, assistance that has now been repaid with an IMF loan, The Intercept reported. Pakistan is known as a production hub for the types of basic munitions needed for grinding warfare. As Ukraine grappled with chronic shortages of munitions and hardware, the presence of Pakistani-produced shells and other ordinances by the Ukrainian military has surfaced in open-source news reports about the conflict, though neither the US nor the Pakistanis have acknowledged the arrangement. A Pakistani military source leaked records detailing the arms transactions earlier this year. The documents describe munitions sales agreed to between the US and Pakistan from the summer of 2022 to the spring of 2023, as per The Intercept reports. The authentication process was done by matching the signature of an American brigadier general with his signature on publicly available mortgage records in the United States; by matching the Pakistani documents with corresponding American documents; and by reviewing publicly available but previously unreported Pakistani disclosures of arms sales to the US posted by the State Bank of Pakistan. The economic capital and political goodwill from the arms sales played a key role in helping secure the bailout from the IMF, with the State Department agreeing to take the IMF into confidence regarding the undisclosed weapons deal, according to sources with knowledge of the arrangement, and confirmed by a related document. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Saudi Arabia has reportedly conveyed to the Biden administration its decision to suspend discussions regarding the normalization of relations with Israel. An Israeli official in the Prime Minister's Office revealed this information, citing an unconfirmed report from the Arab news outlet Elaph. As reported by The Jerusalem Post citing the report, Riyadh has communicated through the United States that the "extremist" character of Israel's right-wing government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is obstructing any potential improvement in relations with the Palestinians, consequently affecting ties with Saudi Arabia. The report also mentioned that Saudi Arabia was discouraged from pursuing a potential peace agreement because of Netanyahu's willingness to accommodate the demands of individuals like National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, whom the Saudis perceive as being from the "far-right" political spectrum. Also Read: Saudi Arabia says no Israel deal without Palestinian peace In our judgment that needs to involve a two-state solution" to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, he explained. In the previous week, Antony Blinken, the United States Secretary of State, stated that Saudi Arabia had communicated to the Biden administration that addressing Palestinian concerns is a pivotal factor in any potential agreement for normalizing relations with Israel. It is also clear from what we hear from the Saudis that if this process is to move forward, the Palestinian piece is going to be very important too," Blinken said on Wednesday in an interview with the podcast Pod Save the World. Israeli normalization with the Arab world and any of the efforts that are going on to improve relations between Israel and its neighbors can not be a substitute for Israel and the Palestinians resolving their differences and having a much better future for Palestinians," Blinken said. In our judgment that needs to involve a two-state solution" to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, he further explained. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari is undoubtedly a man in a hurry. His go-getter attitude has undoubtedly transformed highway construction in India. Under his remit, the pace of road construction in India has leapfrogged from around 3 km per day to around 37 km per day. His impatience with the normal glacial pace of decision-making in government is well known. This is why he managed to push through the direct jump from BS-IV to BS-VI emissions norms, where lesser mortals might have quailed at the costs and difficulties involved. But Gadkaris impatience and insistence -- compelled both automobile manufacturers and petroleum refiners to work double-time to effect the transition in an unprecedentedly short time frame. But sometimes, his tendency to shoot first and ask questions later can have unintended consequences. After he threatened automakers, at the 63rd Annual meeting of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers no less, to impose a 10% additional tax on diesel vehicles, stocks of auto manufacturers and petroleum refiners went into a tailspin and created panic in the auto industry, forcing him to walk back the statement soon after on social media platform X. Of course, the threat to increase taxes on diesel vehicles was not the only thing Gadkari said in his speech. He had earlier urged the industry to voluntarily reduce the production of diesel vehicles. Diesel is a hazardous fuel, and India is a huge importer as well. Industry must Suo Motu reduce diesel engine production, lest the government is forced to increase the tax on diesel vehicles," the minister said, while urging auto makers to look at greener fuels like ethanol, as well as hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. Apparently, in a bid to drive home his seriousness, he then added that he planned to hand over a letter to the finance minister later the same day, asking for an additional 10% GST on diesel vehicles. The reason for the panic in the stock markets was obvious. Any such additional tax, if implemented, would have created havoc for the automobile sector, as well as petroleum refiners in India. Diesel-powered passenger vehicles attract 28% GST and a 22% tax, making such vehicles the most heavily taxed in the automobile sector. Any further increase in taxes would have practically killed demand, rendering infructuous the tens of thousands of crores automakers have invested in converting to BS-VI engines, as well as the sums refiners have invested in manufacturing and marketing BS-VI compliant fuel, all of which went into effect only in 2020, less than three years ago. Refiners will also be in a fix. Diesel is by far the most consumed refined petroleum product in India consumed 85.90 million tonnes of diesel in 2022-23, while petrol consumption was 34.98 million tonnes. Almost 70% of Indias transport sector runs on diesel, as does all tractors, harvesters and other agricultural machinery, as well as a bulk of the pump sets in the agriculture sector. Diesel is also a key business continuity fuel, powering most of the capacity operated by the industry. Clearly, any shift away from diesel cannot happen overnight. It will also need the availability of cost-effective alternatives which can be implemented at a mass scale. Unfortunately, such alternatives are not readily available at the moment. But the industry was justified in being worried, since such drastic policy shifts have happened in the past as well. Witness the governments massive push for electric vehicles. The Centre wants a full shift of three-wheelers, and scooters and motorcycles with engine capacities of less than 150cc to electric by 2023 and 2025, respectively. The plan is already underway to have larger vehicles such as trucks and buses run electricity, despite the lack of infrastructure. In 1998, the Supreme Court had mandated converting Delhis public transport vehicles three and four-wheelers as well as buses to CNG. At that time, CNG was touted as a green fuel and the order was intended to bring down Delhis massive pollution levels. It did help for a while but Delhi is back to being one of the most polluted cities in the world. The trouble with the order was not that it was not well intended or even wrong, but that it failed to look at the root causes of Delhis pollution. Vehicular emissions constituted only a part of the problem. Even here, the trouble was not with diesel technology as such but poorly maintained vehicles, overloading and adulteration of fuels and lubricants which led to higher particulate matter pollution. Diesel engines emit less CO2 and greenhouses gases but more particulate matter and NOX than petrol. Its six of one and half a dozen of the other. The problem is that our policymakers tend to focus on the process and not on outcomes. If the goal was to ensure lowered emissions, the response should have been to set emission targets and time-frames, and leave it to the industry and markets to determine the best way to achieve that. Hybrids could have offered an effective interim pathway but by using a tax policy that focused on fuel (diesel vs petrol) and engine capacity rather than ultimate outcomes, they fell by the wayside. In fact, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his message to automakers at the same meeting where Gadkari spoke about the tax hike, offered the right way to approach the problem. "The need of the hour today is to develop a mobility ecosystem that is sustainable and in harmony with the environment. Environmentally-conscious and economically viable mobility is the future," he said, commending the industry for introducing a number of alternative technologies such as bio and flex-fuel vehicles, hybrid electric, electric and hydrogen. That goal can be achieved only if the industry is given clear outcome targets and a reasonable time frame to find appropriate solutions and not by using policy as a blunt weapon to force the pace of change. On 15 August 1945, Emperor Hirohito announced Japans unconditional capitulation after the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, ordering all Japanese forces to cease hostilities and surrender to Allied troops. And that is how World War II ended for the world. But not for holdouts. These were Japanese soldiers scattered in the Philippines islands who continued fighting despite Japans surrender, the most notable being a soldier called Hirro Onoda. Second Lieutenant Hirro Onoda was deployed in Lubang Island and ordered to battle relentlessly until the Japanese Army launched a counter-offensive to oust Allied troops. And he did exactly that. When Allied troops arrived in Lubang, most Japanese soldiers either died fighting or surrendered, but Onoda hightailed to the hills with three soldiers and continued guerilla warfare. His group lived off the jungles, raiding villages, killing dozens of innocent villagers and skirmishing with local police. He kept at it for 29 years after the war was over! There were innumerable attempts to draw out holdouts from the islands by communicating over radio broadcasts, loudspeakers and air-dropped leaflets proclaiming that the war had ended. Many Japanese soldiers came out and surrendered. But not Onoda. He was convinced that these were American ruses to beguile him into surrendering. Even leaflets signed by senior military generals commanding Onoda to lay down arms were rubbished by him. His logic was as simple as his indoctrination. He had been taught that the Japanese would fight to the last man, woman and child, and die before surrendering, thus obeying an emperor who Japanese culture held as a direct descendant of God. So, to his brainwashed mind, those leaflets had to be fake. Onoda was an exceptional soldier and his ability to strike at will and melt into the jungles thwarted attempts by police and Philippine soldiers to capture or kill him. However, these constant battles took their toll and one by one Onodas comrades were killed until he was alone. Nonetheless, he kept fighting, inflicting deaths, burning crops and villages. The frustrated Japanese government brought Onodas brother to the jungles where he was hiding. Using a megaphone, the brother called upon him to appreciate that the war was over and surrender. He even sang a childhood nursery rhyme with names of their relatives to convince Onoda who he was. But the soldier dismissed even this as enemy propaganda. Years later, he admitted that he did see his brother and hear his singing and while every instinct told him that it was indeed his brother, a slight change of pitch at the end of the song convinced him that an imposter had been sent. In 1974, a Japanese hippie explorer Norio Suzuki, who set out to travel the world looking for Lieutenant Onoda, a panda and the Yetiin that ordervisited Lubang island and found Onoda within a week and convinced him to surrender. After three decades of his private war, Onoda returned to a grandiose reception in Japan. His saga gave much succour to a proud and humiliated Japan, whose people saw Onodas defiance as the undefeated Samurai spirit. He attained celebrity status. He was feted at public events, received many marriage proposals and was even asked to join politics. But Onoda was quickly disillusioned when he realized that he had wasted three decades of his life for a non-existent cause and what he considered to be the decay of Japanese values. While his autobiography No surrender detailed his 30-year war, he left out the murder of innocent villagers in his accounts. Unhappy and disenchanted, Onoda left Japan for Brazil. We all have a bit of Hirro Onoda within us. We believe in causes, ideologies and leaders whose narratives have outlived their usefulness or were specious to begin with. And yet we hold onto those narratives because we have committed acts, forged alliances, made enemies and taken standsbased on those very narratives. If we now open ourselves to the possibility of our narratives being incorrect, they could shatter our core beliefs. Psychologists profiling Onodas behaviour observed that his insistence on holding onto a belief which was proven false by his own commanding officer and brother, was necessary for him to reconcile the murders and damage hed perpetrated for three decades. How else could he live with those acts on his conscience if he allowed his patently false beliefs to be destroyed? Onoda needed his false narrative and therefore stubbornly rejected all evidence to the contrary. But fallacious narratives have a shelf life and when they are exposed as outdated or patently false, it takes a person of character and conscience to admit a mistake, repent and make amends, because that is a much tougher thing to do than to simply continue believing and defending an unjust cause. Hirro Onoda lived in Brazil in a self-imposed exile for a decade before returning to Japan and establishing an NGO to educate the youth, continuing his national service until he died in 2014, aged 92. As for Norio Suzuki, he did find a panda after locating Onoda, but died in an avalanche in 1986 while searching for the Yeti in the Dhaulagiri range of the Himalayas. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Chinas regime has begun to spy spies everywhere. Students are being enlisted to root out snoops, and ordinary residents are being asked to question neighbours to ascertain their patriotism. Videos instructing college-goers to serve as a defence line" against foreign forces were reportedly beamed at a university, while a national security-themed party was held at another. An interactive training game called Whos the Spy? has also been used for this purpose. The message seems clearthat there are potential traitors all around. Not surprisingly, social mistrust has grown, with instances on the rise of ordinary folk being reported to authorities on misplaced suspicion. While theres no denying that espionage happens, and many countries are indeed keen to snoop on China, the so-called Peoples Republic may soon reach a point where people are afraid of their own shadows. For its leader Xi Jinping, this may be part of a political ploy. By exaggerating a perceived national threat, Xi could be trying to divert attention from a faltering economy. But then again, the dictatorial attitudes on display border on paranoia. All this has eerie echoes of the Soviet Union before it came apart. All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) MP Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday made scathing revelations about the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) accusing the Opposition coalition bloc of indulging in bigotry. Owaisi on Monday alleged that the INDIA bloc did not give him a ticket reasoning it with the fact that 'they won't get a Hindu vote'. Talking at a conference in Delhi, the AIMIM chief explained why the party did not join the INDIA coalition to oppose the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections. ""...We are not in the INDIA Alliance and I don't care about it... It would be suffocating there. Why are they not standing up against the BJP on their ideology... They told that if they give us a ticket, they won't get a Hindu vote..." Owaisi was heard saying. I am saying this openly, they say this behind closed walls." Owaisi further alleged. Owaisi said, My orientation does not accept that Muslims should not contest elections. I think Muslims should participate in elections... You won't win until you fight. Even if you lose, standing up in elections is necessary... You will never win if you don't contest elections fearing defeat. You need to lose twice or thrice before you win... " Owaisi hit out at the political scenario in India, three years after the Independence, since the year the Indian Constitution came into effect. Owaisi alleged that Secratian politics has been going on since 1950 and did not start on 2014, hinting at the fact that the Congress had been responsible for marginalising Muslim politicians. "Sectarian politics against Muslims has been going on since 1950, it did not begin in 2014... The environment has been rough for Muslims since the beginning..." the AIMIM chief added. AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami had met Union Home Minister and Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Amit Shah in New Delhi, a few days ago, triggering speculations that the saffron party and the Dravidian party are considering a coalition for Tamil Nadu . However, on Monday, senior AIADMK leader D Jayaram announced that they are snapping ties with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party. This brought an end to an unending bickering between the AIADMK and the BJP that ensued in the previous few days. On Monday, D Jayaram said that AIADMK cannot tolerate any affront to the late Chief Minister Dravidian stalwart CN Annadurai, fondly addressed as Anna (elder brother), EV Ramasamy Periyar and late AIADMK veterans MG Ramachandran (MGR) and J Jayalalithaa. Notably, the AIADMK and BJP relationship had come into question during the Sanatan Dharma remark row that began with DMK leader and Tamil Nadu Chief minister's son Udhayanidhi Stalin's remark. Annamalai's remarks on AIADMK leaders The rift began with Tamil Nadu BJP leader Annamalai's comments on former chief minister J Jayalalithaa, and Annadurai. Comments on Jayalalithaa: During an interview K Annamalai said had previously said, many administrations of Tamil Nadu were corrupt with former chief ministers convicted in courts of law." The former BJP allies in Tamil Nadu, and their saffron party's Dravidian connect for a bastion in the south had passed a condemnation resolution against Annamalai for his remark. Comments on Annadurai: Further on September 11, leading a demonstration against Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister P K Sekar Babu for his participation in the 'Sanatana Dharma' eradication conference here, Annamalai had made a comment on Annadurai. Speaking to reporters in Coimbatore on Sunday, Annamalai asked if what he had said about Anna was wrong. He asserted that he is in politics to protect Sanatan Dharma and Tamil culture. He insisted that he did not speak ill of Anna and had only mentioned an event from the pages of history and the manner in which Muthuramalinga Thevar had defended Sanatana Dharma. To substantiate his claim, the BJP leader said, he had copies of news reports that appeared in the month of June in 1956 in a top national English daily. The BJP leader said Anna had in the 1950s made a critical remark in Madurai against the Hindu faith at an event, and that it was staunchly opposed by freedom fighter Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar. BJP's ambition of Tamil Nadu seats While BJP leader Annamalai's remarks gave birth to seething tension between AIADMK and BJP, adding to an already strained relationship, Union Home Minister Amit Shah had told BJP workers in Tamil Nadu to target over 25 seats in the next general elections. Why did AIADMK cut ties with BJP? Senior AIADMK leader D Jayakumar, lashing out at Annamalai for his criticism of Annadurai, said his party workers will not tolerate any insult to the late CM. While Annamalai had made critical remarks about AIADMK leaders including the late J Jayalalithaa in the past, the party had sought that the former be restrained. "Annamalai doesn't desire an alliance with AIADMK although BJP workers want it. Should we tolerate all this criticism of our leaders? Why should we carry you? BJP can't set foot here. Your votebank is known. You are known because of us," the former minister told reporters here while lashing out at the BJP and its state unit president. "We can't tolerate anymore (the criticism of leaders). As far as the alliance is concerned, it is not there. BJP is not with AIADMK. (the matter) can be decided only during the election. This is our stand," he said. "Our party has his (Annadurai) name. To promote himself, he belittles Periyar. He didn't budge even after condemnation. It is against coalition dharma; no AIADMK worker will accept this. Annamalai is unfit to be a leader and he is keen only about promoting him. What right have you got to talk about Periyar, EPS (Palaniswami), Amma (Jayalalithaa) and MGR. AIADMK workers will never accept this," Jayakumar added. The AIADMK had nothing to lose over the alliance-related development. "They are the losers," he said about the BJP. He repeatedly claimed the BJP and Annamalai will fare badly electorally without the AIADMK. Will this affect the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections? Trouble in paradise arises, when the saffron party, perprtartors and practitioners of Sanatan Dharma tries their luck in the Dravidian state. The issue of an alleged Hindi Imposition also lessens chances of BJP establishing control in Tamil nadu. Loosing their Dravidian alliance with loosely thoguht comments can potentially prove fatal for the saffron party in the southern state. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! India, the nation has been witness to opposition parties forming the government together as the coalition government, however empirically it has been noted to have crumbled before the five year term's completion. Is the newly formed Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) headed for a similar fate if and when it comes to power following the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections. INDIA's Mission 2024 has projected a united front against the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) for the biggest democratic festival India celebrates every five years. However, reports of fissures has began emerging even though the coalition has reached just its third meet. According to media reports, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) after their Politburo meeting over the past weekend has decided to stay away from the coalition of INDIA that also houses their state rivals Mamata Banerjee led Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal, and United Democratic Front (UDF), for West Bengal and Kerala. According to a report by Indian Express quoting people familiar with the developments, saying that it was impossible to ask ruling Left front to not contest on seats which are currently held by the Congress, hinting at the arrangement of the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and UDF in Kerala legislative assembly. Further in Bengal, CPI(M) has always maintained distance from joining or even collaborating with TMC and Mamata Banerjee, or the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), possessing the boast-worthy history of governing West Bengal for a record thirty four years. Several media reports have also flagged the as far as possible in the INDIA bloc's resolution to fighting the elections together. We, the INDIA parties, hereby resolve to contest the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections together as far as possible." the resolution read triggering speculations about the unity of the INDIA bloc when it comes to state legislative assembly elections. According to an NDTV report of the politburo meeting of the CPI(M), that the Communist party was harboring reservations about the organizational structure of the INDIA bloc. "While all decisions will be taken by the leaders of the constituents, there should be no organisational structures that will be an impediment for such decisions," NDTV quoted the statement said. CPI(M) also refused to name its representative for the INDIA bloc's Coordination and Election Strategy committee. While it is not surprise that Mamata Banerjee and Sitaram Yechury would have a significant discomfort sharing a stage for the INDIA bloc, the CPI(M) and TMC rivalry is just probably one of the many regionally opposing parties that need a cordial relationship for the INDIA bloc to stand a chance ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections. Another stemming rivalry is the Congress vs Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) feud. "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Estimates of Earths average temperature, having set a new record on July 3rd, have yet to fall back below the previous record, which was set just last year. That a run of very hot days should happen in July is, by itself, perhaps unsurprising. Two-thirds of the Earths land is in the northern hemisphere, and land warms up faster than water does, so northern summers are the hottest times of year for the planet as a whole. But the highest temperatures tend to come later in the season. That this years should start so early, rise so high and run so long is unprecedented. So is what is happening in the oceans (see chart). Since March 13th the sea-surface temperature in low- and mid-latitudes has been higher than on the same day in any year since 1979. Normally highest in the southern summer (most of Earths water is in the south), temperatures are at record levels in the southern winter. View Full Image (Graphic: The Economist) Within the rising global averages lie savage peaks in particular places. On July 16th a site in the Turpan Depression in Xinjiang, sometimes called Chinas Death Valley, reported a high of 52.2C. In America, in Death Valley proper, the same day saw a peak of 53.9C. Of more immediate concern than isolated spikes in deserts, temperatures have been dangerously high in places where hundreds of millions of people live, too. On July 6th, after the city measured its highest July temperature ever, authorities in Beijing announced their second red alert for heat in two weeks. July 19th marked the 19th day in a row that the temperature in Phoenix, Arizona, has exceeded 43C. Things are similarly sweltering in Italy and many nearby countries (see map). Life in the greenhouse Asked how such a thing might be, one climate scientist replies drily I suspect it might have something to do with accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere." More greenhouse gas in the atmosphere results in more of the warmth from the sun being trapped near the surface and absorbed by the oceans. The level of carbon dioxide, the most important long-lived greenhouse gas, as measured at Mauna Loa, a mountain peak in Hawaii, reached 424 parts per million in May, the highest it has been for over 3m years. Methane and nitrous oxide, two other long-lived greenhouse gases, have also reached levels never before experienced by humans. The world is now, on average, around 1.2C warmer than it was before humans started thickening the glass in the greenhouse. View Full Image (Graphic: The Economist) The climate has natural variations, too, and the most famous of them, the El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO), is adding to the warmth. ENSO is a sloshing back and forth in the winds and currents of the tropical Pacific ocean which sometimes sees the waters suck up more heat, and sometimes sees them give more heat out. In June the world entered an El Nino" phase, in which heat is released. The greatest effect of an El Nino on global temperatures tends to be seen after it has been in place for a year or so. But todays ocean temperatures look like evidence of this one getting off to a flying start. On top of these global effects, there is the fact that moving the top of a bell curve even a touch to the right can change the values in the tail a lot. According to James Hansen, a climate scientist at Columbia University, the sort of summer which would have been a once-in-a-century event between the 1950s and 1980s has become a once-every-five years event now. If sweltering summers are more likely everywhere, the chances of more than one region being affected at a time go up, too. So are the thickening of the atmospheric blanket, an outpouring of heat from the Pacific and the random effects of year-on-year variation enough to explain this summers freakish temperatures? Or is there something more going on? Dr Hansen thinks there is. He argues that the rate at which the world is warming seems to have gone through a step change in the 2010s, though he has not yet convinced his peers. This summers surprises, especially a run of record temperatures in the North Atlantic, might help change that. I wouldnt be surprised if we see papers appearing over the next few years saying [the Atlantic anomaly is] more than just another extreme," says Myles Allen, a climate modeller at Oxford University. Several things could be speeding up warming. One is the change to the stratosphere brought about by the eruption of Hunga TongaHunga Haapai, a submarine Pacific volcano, in January 2022. This was the largest eruption on Earth since Mount Pinatubo, in the Philippines. In 1991 Pinatubo injected tens of millions of tonnes of sulphur-dioxide gas into the stratosphere, where it reflected some of the suns light. The result was a worldwide cooling of about 0.5C that lasted about a year. The Hunga eruption did not throw anything like that much sulphur into the stratosphere. But it did pump in a great deal of water vapour; between 70m and 150m tonnes. Water vapour is a powerful greenhouse gas. In the lower atmosphere it condenses out into rain or snow fairly quickly. In the stratosphere, though, it lingers for longer. The Hunga eruption is thought to have increased the amount of water vapour in the stratosphere by 13%. That would have warmed the planetthough if Hunga is playing a role, it is one that is already waning. Other possible influences are waxing. When ice ages end, methane levels in the atmosphere shoot up, ushering in the warmer climate of the interglacial" to come. Some scientists cite recent increases in methane levels as evidence that something similar may be afoot today. Methane levels rose throughout the 20th century, mainly because of the rising use of fossil fuels and agriculture. They flattened off at the beginning of the 21st century, but are now growing faster than ever. Some of this is doubtless still because of farming and fossil fuels. But a paper by Euan Nisbet, an Earth scientist at Royal Holloway, and his colleagues, and recently accepted for publication in Global Biogeochemical Cycles, argues that not all the extra methane can be explained that way. The researchers think that the surplus may be coming from the growth of tropical wetlands, whose plants produce the gas when they rot. This is one candidate for the mechanism that drives the methane spikes seen at the end of ice ages. If true, it opens up the possibility of a feedback loop starting today similar to the ones that seem to have operated in the past. More methane means more warming, which means more wetlands, and therefore more methane. That idea is speculative, for now. Perhaps a more plausible culprit is falling emissions of sulphur. The burning of coal and heavy fuel oil produces a lot of sulphur dioxide. Once in the atmosphere that gas forms sulphate particles. These particles cause air pollution leading to hundreds of thousands of deaths every year. Environmental regulators have been trying to reduce sulphur emissions for decades. But sulphate particles in the lower atmosphere reflect sunlight, just like those created in the stratosphere after volcanic eruptions. And, unlike those in the normally bone-dry stratosphere, particles lower down can help create clouds which reflect away more sunshine still. Controls on pollution mean that this climate-cooling side effect has been weakening. Of particular relevance are new regulations on the sulphur content in shipping fuel that came into force in 2020. The regulations were brought in by the International Maritime Organisation on the basis of estimates that they would save around 40,000 lives a year. They are thought to have reduced sulphur emissions from shipping by more than 80%. The evidence is visible as a worldwide decline in ship tracks", long, thin clouds created when sulphate particles in a ships exhaust provide nuclei around which water droplets can form. Fewer, fainter ship tracks and other clouds mean less sunlight is bouncing back out to space, and is instead being absorbed by the oceans below. View Full Image (Graphic: The Economist) The indirect effects that aerosol particles have on cloud cover are notoriously hard to capture in climate models. Estimates of how much cooling shipping pollution might have caused vary by a factor of ten. But Dr Hansen thinks the changes could plausibly explain most of the quicker warming that he sees in the data. From 1970 to 2010 the warming trend was 0.18C a decade. Since around 2015, Dr Hansen thinks it has been between 0.27C and 0.36C per decadebetween half as high again and twice as high. A study by Dr Allen and his colleagues published last year sees a similar increase in the trend, but warns that it may be strongly influenced by natural variability, with aerosol effects playing a much smaller role than that which Dr Hansen would assign them. Quantifying the role of human influence in these apparently unprecedented events is hard," Dr Allen cautions. A sweltering world might try to find a way to keep the cooling properties of sulphates without the drawbacks for air quality and health. In 2006 Paul Crutzen, an atmospheric scientist, suggested this might be done by continuously injecting small amounts of sulphur directly into the stratosphere. Since there is no rain to flush them out, high-flying stratospheric particles last much longer than those in the lower atmosphere. That means that a few million tonnes of sulphur dioxide added to the stratospheretechnically quite plausiblecould provide as much cooling as the 100m tonnes or so that humans dump into the lower atmosphere each year. And as with warming itself, its effect on extremes would be greater than its effect on averages. Unwelcome things in the tail of the distribution could be made a lot less likely. Sunscreen for the planet This idea, a form of solar geoengineering", is controversial, and with good reason. Its effects on stratospheric chemistry cannot yet be predicted accurately. Of particular concern are what it might do to the ozone layer, which screens out a good deal of the suns harmful ultraviolet radiation before it reaches the ground. Because solar geoengineerings effects on rainfall, as well as temperature, would differ from place to place, a cooling tailored to the needs of one country might not be to the taste of others. Settling such disputes is beyond any current system of global governance. Above all, a technology that could cool the planet without ending fossil-fuel use might well slow or even scupper that phase-out. So far these worries have carried the day. Research on solar geoengineering has been side-lined, and its possible role in climate policy has gone largely undiscussed. All those who take part in such discussions as there are stress that solar geoengineering should at best be seen as a complement to decarbonisation, shaving off extreme risks while the world moves towards a fossil-free economy. But the fear that it would instead be treated as an alternative is sufficiently persuasive as to be pervasive. If 2023 is not an aberration, though, and the world really is moving into an accelerated phase of warming, that reluctance might be reassessed. Emissions reduction should be able to slow the warming of the Earth within a few decades. Pursued with real zeal, it might bring it to an end this century. But it provides no cooling in the meantime. If that proves to be what the world wants, solar geoengineering is the only thing which looks able to provide it. Curious about the world? To enjoy our mind-expanding science coverage, sign up to Simply Science, our weekly subscriber-only newsletter. For more coverage of climate change, sign up for The Climate Issue, our fortnightly subscriber-only newsletter, or visit our climate-change hub. 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com No fresh cases of the Nipah virus were reported in Kerala as 61 samples of high-risk contacts including healthcare workers tested negative, state health minister Veena George said on Monday. She also said that 1,233 people are on the contact list now. Nipah strain found in Kerala has been identified as the Indian Genotype, or I Genotype, which is similar to the strain found in Bangladesh, added George. Total six cases of the Nipah virus have been found so far in Kerala of which two persons died while four others, including a nine-year-old boy are undergoing the treatment. The ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) and the World Health Organization (WHO) had conducted studies and found that Kerala and eight other states in India have the probability of Nipah occurrence, said the state health minister. Also after 2018, we conducted surveillance and we found that the source of Nipah infection is bats. The virus we found in Kerala is identified as Indian Genotype or I Genotype which is similar to the strain found in Bangladesh. We have two strains of Nipah Virus one is Malaysian and the other from Bangladesh," George told ANI. The 19 core committees formed as part of defence activities are functioning well. The central team is also testing saliva samples from bats. Efforts are also underway to add those left out to the contact list," she also said. The kerala health department has sought the help of the police to attain mobile tower locations of the deceased. The mobile tower location has been checked with the help of the police to trace the source of the virus in the first patient," George said. According to the ANI report, the state health minister said that the health condition of the patients currently under treatment is satisfactory and that of the nine-year-old boy, who is on a ventilator, is improving. Samples from 36 bats have been collected and sent for testing. (With inputs from ANI) "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! Nepah Virus strain behind the high risk of outbreak in Kerala finds its root from Bangladesh and Malaysia. The state is among nine Indian states where there his high probability of Niph occurrence, Kerala Health Minister Veena George told ANI on Monday. "ICMR and WHO had conducted studies on the issue and it was found that 9 states in India have the probability of Nipah occurrence and Kerala is one among them. Also after 2018, we conducted surveillance and we found that the source of Nipah infection is bats. The virus we found in Kerala is identified as Indian Genotype or I Genotype which is similar to the strain found in Bangladesh. We have two strains of Nipah Virus one is Malaysian and the other from Bangladesh" she told ANI. Also Read: Nipah has around 70% mortality rate, Covid had 3%: ICMR No new cases of Nipah virus were reported in the state, Health Minister Veena George told ANI on Monday. She said that as 61 samples of high risk contacts tested negative. Till now, six cases of the Nipah virus have been so far found in Kerala. Out of them two died, while four other are undergoing treatment. Also Read: Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala: Covid era-like containment zones back in Kozhikode district Highlighting key development and strategies used by the Kerala government to deal with the disease, Veena George said that all the strategies were implemented after a review meeting to assess the activities. The 19 core committees formed as part of defence activities are functioning well. The central team is also testing saliva samples from bats. Efforts are also underway to add those left out to the contact list," she said. George said that the central team which was in the state to examine disaster preparedness will leave on Monday. She also said that the state health department is seeking access of the details of mobile tower locations of the deceased. The mobile tower location has been checked with the help of the police to trace the source of the virus in the first patient," George said. The minister also praised the police, saying, Activities of the police in the containment zone as part of Nipah prevention activities are exemplary." "Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here! On Saturday night in Bangkok, Thailand, Kim Thitisan Goodburn from Thailand won the title of Mister International 2023.This is the first time that Thailand has won the pageant, which is now in its 15th year. Goodburn, a 25-year-old model and actor, beat out a field of 37 contestants from around the world. Emmanuel Manu Franco from the Dominican Republic, the current Mister International, crowned him with the title. During his acceptance speech, Goodburn expressed his honor in representing Thailand and pledged to utilize his platform for promoting diversity and inclusion. I believe that everyone is beautiful in their own way, he said. We should all embrace our differences and celebrate what makes us unique. Goodburn is a graduate of a University in Bangkok, where he studied business administration. He is also a successful model and actor, having appeared in several Thai films and television shows. In addition to his modeling and acting career, Goodburn is also a passionate advocate for social causes. He is particularly interested in promoting education and environmental protection. The Mister International pageant is an annual male beauty pageant that aims to promote diversity and inclusion. The pageant is open to men from all over the world, regardless of their race, religion, or sexual orientation. The Crystal Design Center Ballroom in Bangkok, Thailand, hosted this years pageant, where the judges evaluated the contestants based on criteria such as physical fitness, intelligence, and personality. The Mister International pageant is a prestigious event that attracts contestants from all over the world. Goodburns victory is a major accomplishment for Thailand and it is sure to inspire young Thais to pursue their dreams. Thailands Pride Goodburns victory is a major moment for Thailand. It is the first time that a Thai man has won the Mister International pageant, and it is a testament to the countrys growing diversity and acceptance. Goodburn is a role model for young Thais everywhere. He is smart, talented, and successful. He is also a kind and compassionate person who is committed to making a difference in the world. Thailand is proud of Kim Thitisan Goodburn, and we wish him all the best in his reign as Mister International 2023. Tensions between Taiwan and China escalated on Monday after Taiwans defense ministry reported a sharp rise in Chinese military activities near the island. The ministry urged China to stop destructive, unilateral action and warned that such behavior could lead to a sharp increase in tensions. The ministry said that Chinese military aircraft had been flying in and out of Taiwans air defense identification zone (ADIZ) at an unprecedented rate. The ADIZ is not the same as Taiwans airspace, but it is a region where foreign aircraft are required to identify themselves and report their flight plans. The ministry also said that Chinese warships had been sailing in the Taiwan Strait, which separates Taiwan from China. The strait is a vital shipping lane for both Taiwan and China, and any military activity in the area could have a significant impact on global trade. Taiwans defense ministry warned that the increased Chinese military activity could lead to misfires and accidents. The ministry also said that Chinas actions were destabilizing the region and undermining peace and security. The international community has called for calm and restraint from both sides. The United States, Japan, and Australia have all expressed concern about the increased Chinese military activity near Taiwan. Analysis: The increased Chinese military activity near Taiwan is a sign of the growing tensions between the two sides. China claims Taiwan as its own territory, and it has been increasingly assertive in its efforts to pressure the island to accept its sovereignty. Taiwan, on the other hand, has vowed to defend its democracy and its way of life. The island has a well-equipped military, and it is backed by the United States. The situation between Taiwan and China is highly volatile, and any misstep could lead to a conflict. The international community should continue to urge both sides to exercise restraint and to engage in dialogue. Conclusion: The increased Chinese military activity near Taiwan is a serious concern for the international community. The situation is highly volatile, and any misstep could lead to a conflict. The international community should continue to urge both sides to exercise restraint and to engage in dialogue. Chad Cardin (center) chief of police at GNTC, poses for a picture during a regional police chief meeting held on the Gordon County Campus in Calhoun. Also pictured is Steve Blevins (left), police officer at GNTCs Walker County Campus, and Gary McConathy (right), police lieutenant at GNTCs Gordon County Campus. Longford TD, Joe Flaherty has accused insurance company, Allianz, of wanton greed and abandoning marginalised communities as its restrictions on insurance cover hampers the capacity of school based CLAR funded programmes to be open to the general public. However, in response, Allianz Ireland, has stated that there are no restrictions to this cover for such use. The CLAR programme provides funding for small scale projects in rural areas that have experienced significant levels of population decline. Several schools have successfully applied to the scheme for activity trails and playgrounds. Longford / Westmeath Fianna Fail Deputy Flaherty pointed out that CLAR has proven very popular in his home county. Among the local schools to benefit were: St Marys NS, Newtowncashel - multi use games area - 49,966; Lenamore NS, Legan specialist sensory garden with musical play equipment - 24,689; Ballymahon VS multi use games area - 36,792; Moyne CS multi use games area - 50,000; Lanesboro Primary School Agility trail - 17,329 and Sacred Heart Primary School Granard outdoor covered area & raised beds - 33,300. Deputy Flaherty explained that the conditions attached to the CLAR programme require that such facilities be available for wider community use. Many schools in CLAR areas are willing to make their playground facilities available for community use and have received support under the programme on that basis. Allianz is the principal insurer for Irish schools and Deputy Flaherty has expressed disappointment that one of the biggest insurance companies in the world has taken issue with the requirement for wider community use. In advice furnished to the Diocese of Ardagh and Clonmacnois in relation to the requirements of CLAR funding for developments on school property, Allianz suggested that if facilities are open to the public they attract a significant exposure as they place an enormous legal liability on behalf of the property owner. Based on this, the diocese has informed schools who have undertaken CLAR developments that it is imperative they increase their insurance cover so they are adequately insured. The diocese also says it will not be in a position to give consent for any future developments to be undertaken with CLAR funding in the schools. Deputy Flaherty said, The advice from Allianz comes after the company posted record 14.2bn profits for 2022. And nor have their results shown any signs of inflationary or cost of living pressures as their Q4 results surged by 12.7% to 4bn. Commenting on those results, Allianz CEO Oliver Baete outlined that they consolidated their position as one of the worlds largest, most resilient, and trusted global financial institutions. However, the local TD said those words will ring hollow in rural Ireland where the goodwill of school boards of management and local committees have brought about badly needed local facilities. Deputy Flaherty urged Allianz to rethink their position and added, It seems corporate responsibility is now lost in a haze of profiteering. In response, Geoff Sparling, Chief Customer Officer at Allianz Ireland, We would like to clarify the situation. The key thing to note is that Allianz do provide our education customers with insurance cover for publicly available facilities, and importantly, there are no restrictions to this cover for such use. He added, We take great pride in the fact that we have been serving and supporting communities across the country for more than 100 years. We are writing to Deputy Flaherty to reassure him of this commitment and to provide him with the correct and relevant information. Mr Sparling pointed out that ensuring you have the appropriate insurance cover in place is important for any property owner or the operator of any facility, particularly those that are open to the public. He said, We have a responsibility to provide our customers with information about their cover, what that includes or does not include, and when additional cover may be required. We always work with our customers to offer them this additional insurance should they require it. We would encourage any customer with concerns or queries about their cover to contact us directly for clarification. The matter is also due to be discussed at todays (Wednesday, September 13) meeting of Longford County Council. Cllr Paul Ross has tabled a motion calling for a workable solution to the public liability insurance issue to be found as soon as possible to ensure schools will be able to apply for CLAR funded projects. The Mater Hospital Foundation is asking Longford people to 'Go Pink' in October to raise funds for breast cancer patients. Host your own 'Pink Party' with colleagues or friends on or around 18th October and help support breast cancer care in the Mater Public Hospital .Fake it, bake it or dye it pink to make a real difference to people with breast cancer Sign up today to receive your free pink specs and event pack www.materfoundation.ie/gopink. Your party can be as simple or elaborate as you like, and the funds you raise will be put to work to support women and men with breast cancer from all across Ireland. Your colleagues and friends will be tickled pink to take part, knowing that they will be having a positive impact on the lives of so many Mater Hospital patients. Hosting your own Go Pink breakfast, brunch, event or activity is such an easy and fun way to bring people together, create a real sense of togetherness in your workplace or community and make a huge difference in the Mater Hospital. Thanks to the generosity of its supporters, the Mater Hospital Foundation has helped to make so much possible in the Mater Hospital, from enhancing the Breast Health unit to funding life-saving equipment and supporting ground-breaking research. To register today to host your own Go Pink Party, simply visit our website www.materfoundation.ie/gopink or call the Mater Hospital Foundation on 01 830 3482 to find out more about how your workplace or community can get involved this October. Local News, Crime By Long Island Published: September 18 2023 Suffolk County Police arrested Cindi Pereira for driving while intoxicated after a crash in West Babylon that killed motorcyclist Kevin Wellington, 30, of Amityville. Suffolk County Police today arrested a woman for driving while intoxicated after she was involved in a motor vehicle crash that killed a motorcyclist in West Babylon. Cindi Pereira was driving a 2019 Nissan Sentra northbound on Straight Path, attempting to turn right on to 13th Street, at approximately 6:30 p.m. when multiple motorcycles rode past the left of the vehicle. The Nissan collided with a black 2006 Yamaha motorcycle, driven by Kevin Wellington, who was riding on the right shoulder of the road. The Nissan and the Yamaha then struck a 2008 Dodge Avenger stopped at a stop sign on 13th St facing westbound. The Nissan then struck a curb and entered a parking lot. The driver of the Dodge, Anthony Risucci, 25, of West Babylon was not injured. The other motorcyclists left the scene. Wellington, 30, of Amityville, was transported to Good Samaritan University Hospital in West Islip where he was pronounced dead. Local News By Chris Boyle Published: September 18 2023 Governor Hochul Deployed 50 Soldiers from the New York National Guard Earlier This Week on Long Island in Preparation for Hurricane Lee. Friday, Governor Kathy Hochul visited the Farmingdale Armed Forces Reserve Center to greet National Guard members the Governor deployed earlier this week on Long Island in preparation for Hurricane Lee. "While Hurricane Lee is unlikely to hit New York, it's long-range effects are projected to impact coastal areas across Long Island," Governor Hochul said. "I'm deeply grateful to the men and women of the New York National Guard for their service to protect our communities, and we will continue our whole-of-government efforts to monitor and prepare for extreme weather." State agencies continue to prepare for a hurricane that could cause dangerous high surf, rip currents, coastal flooding, and beach erosion along parts of the east coast later this week as it moves north. While the final path of the storm is still unclear, Governor Hochul is urging New Yorkers to closely monitor the storms development this week and ensure they are taking the appropriate steps to keep their households safe, if it ends up impacting New York State. New Hyde Park Woman Sentenced to Up to Six Years in Prison for $750,000 Theft Crime By Chris Boyle Published: September 18 2023 Elizabeth Reilly stole money from elderly woman; bought airline tickets, beauty products. Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly announced that a New Hyde Park woman was sentenced today to up to six years in prison for stealing approximately $750,000 from a 91-year-old woman who had entrusted her finances to her attorney, the defendants employer. Elizabeth Reilly, 50, pleaded guilty on May 4, 2023, before Judge Robert Bogle to Grand Larceny in the Second Degree (a C felony). The defendant was sentenced today to three to six years in prison. Elizabeth Reilly took advantage of her access to an elderly womans finances and stole nearly three-quarters of a million dollars of the womans life savings over four years, said DA Donnelly. The defendant will now serve significant prison time for her theft. My office is committed to protecting Nassau County seniors. DA Donnelly said that the defendants employer, a Floral Park attorney, had a verbal agreement with the victim that he would handle her finances as she began executing a Power of Attorney, Living Will and other documents with him. As part of this agreement, the law offices address became the mailing address on record for the victims financial institutions and Reilly was given access to bank statements, check books, credit cards and financial statements. According to the investigation, between 2016 and 2020, more than 250 checks were written from the victims bank accounts and made out to the defendant or to cash and deposited into the defendants accounts or an account held by the defendants husband. The deposited checks totaled more than $675,000. Additionally, Reilly used the victim's credit cards to make unauthorized purchases for Reillys own benefit. Charges included personal purchases, beauty products, a gym membership, and airline tickets. The defendant also made purchases using her own PayPal account, and then paid her account with the victim's credit card. Ultimately, the defendant paid the victims credit card balances online, using the victims bank accounts. The theft was discovered in October 2020, when Reillys employer reviewed the victims credit card statements and saw questionable activity. The case was referred to NCDAs Financial Crimes Bureau in February 2021. Crime By Chris Boyle Published: September 18 2023 Kenny Greene, 23, is charged with Conspiracy 2nd degree. The Homicide Squad reports that a second arrest has been made in connection with a Homicide that occurred on Monday, August 21, 2023 at 8:23 p.m. in Valley Stream. According to Detectives, Fifth Precinct Officers responded for a disturbance that occurred at a vacant store front, located at 85 Ocean Avenue. Upon arrival, Police observed a 12-year-old male with a gunshot wound to his shoulder, a 17-year-old female with a laceration to her hand, and a 20-year-old male - identified as DeAndre Carter, 20 of Brooklyn m-with a gunshot wound to his chest. All three victims were transported to a local area hospital for treatment. Carter was pronounced deceased at 9:05 p.m. by hospital staff. A short while later, two 17-year-old male victims, arrived at local hospitals seeking treatment for gunshot wounds to their legs. Further investigation revealed that a then-unknown subject(s) fired multiple rounds while on 131st Ave and then fled on foot in an unknown direction. On September 7, Homicide Squad Detectives reported the arrest of Kyle Matthews, 21, of 922 Smith Street, Uniondale. He was charged with Murder 2nd Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2nd Degree. Homicide Squad Detectives now also report the arrest of Kenny Greene, 23, of 169-02 144th Road, Jamaica, NY by the Nassau County Police Bureau of Special Operations (BSO) with the assistance of the NYPD Queens South Violent Gun Suppression team o n September 15 . Defendant Kenny Greene is charged with Conspiracy 2nd degree. He was arraigned on Saturday, September 16, 2023 at First District Court, 99 Main Street, Hempstead. The investigation is ongoing. Rena Murshud The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan congratulated Chile on the occasion of the national holiday - the country's Independence Day, Azernews reports. The corresponding publication is posted on the page of the foreign ministry in X. On the National Day of the Republic of Chile, we congratulate the people and the government of Chile and convey to them our best and sincere congratulations! We look forward to enhance the cooperation between our countries in all fields Happy National Day!" - the publication says. (Sharecast News) - UK markets were expected to open the new week on the back foot as investors exercised caution after some big gains over previous sessions. It's set to be a busy week, with policy decisions due from both the Federal Reserve (Wednesday) and Bank of England (Thursday), though Monday's session will be relatively quiet when it comes to economic data. The FTSE 100 was expected to open 0.3% lower, according to IG Group futures data, after hitting 7,711.38 on Friday following a 3.1% rise last week. The index hasn't closed above this level since 23 May. The only major noteworthy economic release out Monday was the Rightmove House Price Index in the UK, which showed that house prices nudged up just 0.4% in September, following a 1.9% fall in August. The rise was below average for this time of year. Year-on-year prices fell 0.4%, building on August's 0.1% decline and the biggest annual dip since March 2019. In company news, paper and packaging group Mondi said it had sold its last remaining facility in Russia to Sezar Invest for 80bn roubles (775m). Both the Russian Federation's Federal Anti-Monopoly Service and Government Sub-Commission for the Control of Foreign Investments have approved the sale, Mondi said in a statement on Monday. Western companies have exited Russia after sanctions were imposed in response to Moscow's unprovoked invasion on neighbouring Ukraine. GSK announced that the US FDA has approved 'Ojjaara', or momelotinib, for the treatment of intermediate or high-risk myelofibrosis in adults with anaemia. The pharma giant said it was the first and only approved treatment for both newly-diagnosed and previously-treated myelofibrosis patients with anaemia. (Alliance News) - RA International Group PLC on Monday said it has won a "strategically significant" new contract with the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. RA International is a specialist provider of complex and integrated remote site services. Its shares surged 55% to 13.20 pence on Monday afternoon. The minimum two-year global framework agreement will see RA provide operational support capability funded through the Conflict, Stability & Security Fund. The services which RA will most likely provide will be funded from a sub-lot allocated to the CSSF valued, at a maximum of GBP375 million over two years. It said they relate to "providing and delivering operational and technical equipment to organisations in hostile environments in a Human Rights compliant manner." RA added that the value, timing and location of future orders received by RA will be dependent upon the UK government's priorities and needs over the period of the framework agreement. Chief Executive Soraya Narfeldt said: "This latest contract solidifies our relationships with the UK [Ministry of Defence] and FCDO further, following awards with the MoD OSCC in 2022 and FCDO earlier this year, and cements our group strategy. Our global reach, ability to mobilise quickly and self-perform, and our track record in delivering critical projects in environments where our clients are often faced with extreme political or operational constraints were key factors in our success in gaining a seat on the CSSF framework." By Sophie Rose, Alliance News reporter Comments and questions to newsroom@alliancenews.com Copyright 2023 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved. (Alliance News) - Mondi PLC said on Monday it had agreed to sell its most significant facility in Russia to Sezar Invest LLC for around RUB80 billion, or about EUR775 million. The Weybridge, England-based paper and packaging firm early in June ended its plan to sell this facility, called JSC Mondi Syktyvkar, to Augment Investments due to lack of progress in gaining regulatory approvals in the country. In a statement on Monday, Mondi confirmed that both the Russian Federation's Federal Anti-Monopoly Service and government sub-commission for the control of foreign investments had approved the deal between Mondi and Sezar Invest, a subsidiary of Moscow-based real estate development company Sezar Group. It also said there were no further outstanding regulatory conditions regarding the disposal. Mondi said it will return proceeds from the Mondi Syktyvkar sale to its shareholders. The disposal of Mondi Syktyvkar, the pulp and paper mill, will complete Mondi's exit from Russia. Back in July, Mondi sold its three Russian packaging converting operations to Gotek Group for EUR30.4 million, or ZAR623.2 million. Mondi first announced in March last year it was assessing all options for its interests in Russia after Moscow launched an invasion of Ukraine the previous month. On the Sezar Invest transaction, Mondi said on Monday the total cash consideration of RUB80 billion will be paid in six monthly installments. The first four monthly payments will be for RUB13.5 billion each, with the first payment made by the end of this month. Once the first four monthly installments has been paid to Mondi, the disposal will complete and ownership of Mondi Syktyvkar will transfer to Sezar Invest, The final RUB26 billion will be paid in two equal installments in each of the two months post completion. By Artwell Dlamini, Alliance News reporter Comments and questions to newsroom@alliancenews.com Copyright 2023 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved. (Alliance News) - Keir Starmer has said he will be seeking a closer trading relationship with the EU if Labour wins the next UK election. The Labour leader spent the weekend meeting fellow centre-left leaders in Montreal, Canada, including the country's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. It comes amid a flurry of overseas engagements before party conference season, with Starmer expected to meet French President Emmanuel Macron later this week. Speaking to The Financial Times, the frontrunner to become the next prime minister said he would be seeking a rewritten Brexit deal. Labour has long been critical of the deal negotiated by the Conservatives under Boris Johnson, with the trade & cooperation agreement up for review in 2025. Starmer told the paper: "Almost everyone recognises the deal Johnson struck is not a good deal it's far too thin. "As we go into 2025 we will attempt to get a much better deal for the UK." Labour has ruled out rejoining the customs union or single market, but Starmer said he was confident a better deal could be secured from Brussels. "I do think we can have a closer trading relationship as well. That's subject to further discussion." "We have to make it work. That's not a question of going back in. But I refuse to accept that we can't make it work. I think about those future generations when I say that. "I say that as a dad. I've got a 15-year-old boy and a 12-year-old girl. I'm not going to let them grow up in a world where all I've got to say to them about their future is, it's going to be worse than it might otherwise have been. "I've got an utter determination to make this work." Starmer earlier said it was "complete garbage" to suggest Labour planned to join an EU-wide migrant quota scheme as part of efforts to tackle small boat crossings in the Channel. It comes after the prime minister Rishi Sunak and Home Secretary Suella Braverman accused Labour of planning to let the UK become a "dumping ground" for 100,000 migrants from the EU each year. The political row emerged after the Labour leader indicated he could be prepared to do a deal with Brussels which would involve the UK taking a quota of asylum seekers who arrive in the bloc in exchange for the ability to return people who cross the English Channel. "The idea that we're going to join the EU scheme on quotas is complete nonsense. We're not an EU member and that wasn't what I was talking about," he told Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips on Sky News. Senior Labour figure Pat McFadden, questioned on the same issue on BBC One's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg, said: "I don't think it's going to be an allocation of numbers, we're talking about individual cases where a child may have strong family links here. "It's not 'we'll take this many, you take that many' that's not the kind of negotiation we want to have." Labour is also facing renewed pressure from its main union backer Unite, which is reportedly set to launch a grassroots campaign to call for more radical policies on energy and steel. Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham, who has called for public ownership of energy and has been critical of Starmer in the past, told The Guardian the union would be targeting so-called "red wall" areas as part of a bid to put pressure on the Labour leadership. source: PA Copyright 2023 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Professional profiles of the chamber's members are also not very diverse With 27-year-old Jessie Thill (Dei Greng) and 71-year-old Mars Di Bartolomeo (LSAP), two political realities collide in the Chamber of Deputies. Thill, the youngest member of the plenary session who was sworn in in January 2022, still has most of her professional and political career ahead of her. On the other side is the doyen of the chamber, Mars Di Bartolomeo, a former journalist who has been re-elected continuously since 1989. The generation gap reflects the difficulties faced by political parties in renewing their personnel. Discovering, training and presenting new talent to voters is proving to be a complicated task. In practice, this means that only a relatively small number of political novices are represented in the Chamber of Deputies. The professional profiles of the chamber's members are also not very diverse as the current elected deputies mostly come from public service or are lawyers and are therefore not a representative image of Luxembourg's society as a whole, although they do represent some of their voters. With the exception of Dei Greng, Dei Lenk and the Pirates, whose average age is well under 50, all parties tend to have more experienced men and women in their ranks. Slow progress Some of the current MPs have been walking through the corridors of parliament for three to four decades or they were elected for the first time in the 1980s or even 1970s. This applies in particular to Lydie Polfer (DP), who was sworn in for the first time in 1979, Michel Wolter (CSV), who became an MP in 1984, or even Lydia Mutsch, who was admitted to the chamber for the first time in 1989. However, the date of the first swearing-in does not necessarily mean that a political career will focus exclusively on working in parliament. MPs can move into the government for one or more legislative periods or, for example, be elected to the European Parliament. This means that only a few MPs exceed the 20-year mark in terms of total mandate. As of August this year, this only applied to three deputies: Lydia Mutsch (LSAP), Laurent Mosar (CSV) and Gusty Graas (DP). The relatively slow pace of young joiners in parliament is partly due to difficulties faced by political parties, such as finding new talent and finding them a place on electoral lists. Lessons from the past An analysis of the median age of current MPs when they first enter parliament showed 50% of current MPs were sworn in before their 40th birthday while the average age of MPs stood at 53. Barbara Agostino (DP), who entered parliament in June as the last member of this legislative period, was also 40 years old. Some experienced elected officials began their political careers very early, such as Lydie Polfer (DP), Michel Wolter (CSV) and Lydia Mutsch (LSAP), who were elected at the ages of 21, 26 and 27 respectively. More than three decades later, they are running for parliamentary elections again this year. Of the current 60 MPs, only Jean-Marie Halsdorf (CSV), Aly Kaes (CSV) and Nathalie Oberweis (Dei Lenk) will not be running again, meaning if all other representatives were re-elected, the renewal rate in the chamber would only be five percent. This would slow the goal expressed by parliament's top administrator, Secretary General Laurent Scheeck, to "achieve new profiles and improve the representativeness of society in the institution", pushing that plan several years into the future. (Updates last paragraph to clarify Scheeck's role. ) (This article was first published on the Luxemburger Wort. Translated and edited by Haneyl Jacob) When Apple unveiled the iPhone 15 series with USB-C last week, the company didnt forget about wired headphone fans. Apple updated its EarPods for the first time since 2016, giving them a USB-C connector tooand if you need a pair of headphones, you might want to give them a look. EarPods are very simple headphones reminiscent of the original iPod headphones featured in Apples iconic silhouette ads. They were redesigned in 2012 with a breakthrough design for a more natural fit and increased durability, and an incredible acoustic quality typically reserved for higher-end earphones, and the new version is identical save for the USB-C connector. Theyre actually quite comfortable and at $19, incredibly cheap. And if you subscribe to Apple Music, theyll also play lossless audio. According to MacOtakara, who tested the new EarPods using an Audio MIDI device, Apples newest buds play audio in lossless quality thanks to a built-in DAC (digital-to-analog converter) that supports 48kHz. That means Apples $19 earbuds play music at a higher bitrate (16bit/44.1kHz to 24bit) than its $549 high-end AirPods Max (256kbps/44.1kHz). Granted, the difference between the two devices is massive, with the AirPods Max offering spatial audio, active noise cancellation, and a slew of other features, but theyre also nearly three years old, still have a Lightning port, and desperately need an update. So we wouldnt recommend spending hundreds of dollars on a pair right now. However, for $19, the newest EarPods are a fantastic deal that will more than hold you over until Apple gets around to updating the AirPods Max. African-led vector control solutions in the context of emerging threats 18 September 2023 The Pan-African Mosquito Control Association (PAMCA) opens its ninth annual conference this week, held this year in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The event, attended by scientists, public health professionals and specialists in vector-borne diseases, is a vital catalyst for research, collaboration, and innovation in mosquito control and elimination strategies on the continent and worldwide. Africa is the most heavily impacted continent afflicted by vector-borne diseases. It accounts for approximately 95 percent of the global burden of malaria, around 241 million cases, and is significantly impacted by other debilitating vector-borne diseases including dengue, Zika and yellow fever. PAMCA, alongside the national steering committee and conference co-host, the Ethiopian Public Health Association (EPHA), are committed to working towards a common vision of an Africa free from vector-borne diseases, especially malaria and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Reorienting surveillance and management in the context of emerging threats of disease vectors is the primary theme of this years conference, a timely focus in light of research published last week in Nature Microbiology showing new strains of malaria-causing parasites in Ethiopia that are both resistant to current treatments and escape detection by common diagnostic tests. This type of double-resistant malaria strain could increase cases and deaths from malaria and make elimination an even greater challenge. Dr Agonafer Tekalegne, Malaria Consortiums Ethiopia Country Director, commented on the event: As a member of this years PAMCA organising committee, it is gratifying to see leading experts in mosquito-borne disease control coming together in my home country, especially at a time when we are seeing increasing disruptions to vector control efforts with mosquitoes adapting at pace to existing preventative interventions and treatments in tandem with external factors like climatic and ecological changes. We need to embrace opportunities like this to champion African-led and African-focused research and approaches that recognise the nuances of the regions diverse ecosystems, climate and health systems. Spotlighting African scientists and policymakers is pivotal in driving sustainable progress against these pernicious diseases and ensuring that we have the evidence to inform the most effective control strategies. The emergence and spread of invasive malaria and arboviral disease vectors in Africa and elsewhere outside of their native territories is of particular concern, highlighting the need for accurate surveillance systems that can be connected across countries. Reported increases in Anopheles stephensi the urban malaria vector is also cause for concern with continued urbanisation likely to increase disease transmission. Representatives from Ethiopia and Sudan will be discussing their countrys respective approaches to control this emergent vector and technical updates will be shared about the preparedness, gaps, and response to An. stephensi in Africa. Genetic modification as a tool to add to malaria control and elimination efforts is also a topic of much debate and features across the programme with results being shared from field trials of malaria vectors engineered with gene drive technology. Adaptations to more traditional interventions such as insecticidal net (ITN) products, as experts seek to improve vector control decisions and better understand the cost-effectiveness of new, more efficacious ITNs. Header image: Professor Delinesaw, Head of PAMCA Ethiopia office Related content 16 January 2023 Critical conversations on genetic control strategies for malaria control in East Africa Manchester, VT (05254) Today Rain and snow in the morning will become rain and snow showers in the afternoon. High 43F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%. Snow accumulations less than one inch.. Tonight Considerable clouds early. Some decrease in clouds late. Low near 25F. Winds light and variable. More than 6,000 workers lost their jobs with the closure of two apparel manufacturers in Cebu and Bataan, the Confederation of Wearable Exporters of the Philippines (CONWEP) said Monday. CONWEP confirmed the closure of Mactan Apparels Inc., one of the three biggest garments and apparel manufacturing groups in the Philippines. Mactan is suffering from major net loss. From operating seven firms, it is now down to five firms. They merged the four companies that were bleeding into two surviving firms. It was a business decision to save factory workers in the Philippines, said CONWEP executive director Maritess Agoncillo. Mactan is a Taiwanese apparel group that exclusively manufactures Adidas wearables in the Philippines. It caters to the US and European markets. The second company that shut down was a member of the Luen Thai International Group Philippines Inc., which is also part of the apparel triad in the Philippines. The Bataan-based company which produces premium goods such as shoes and clothing goods laid off 2,000 factory workers in the second quarter, the group said. Luen Thai is trimming down. Productivity is low. Wages constantly increase annually. These were part of the reasons why the companies pulled out, Agoncillo said. CONWEP said together with Reliance Producers Cooperative, the three biggest apparel exporters represent 60 percent of the total garment exports of the Philippines amounting to $900 million annually. Based on the January to July 2023 financial report of the CONWEP, combined wearable exports suffered a 22-percent decline to $768.68 million from $983.99 million in the same period in 2022. It said that in July, exports tumbled 18 percent to $128.59 million from $156.93 million. Agoncillo said that since the pandemic, demand for high value wearables had steadily declined, as people wanted to hold on to their cash. They say the US is out of it [recession], but they are not buying. Markets have been soft. Investors are consolidating. The industry does not look positive. We do not have a positive outlook for 2024. Since the start of the year, we are already at a double-digit negative growth, she said. Scarcely a day goes by without more developments linked to the ongoing changes in Ethiopias mobile communications sector to allow more competition. This time its news of a delay relating to the second private telecoms licence one that will bring a third mobile player into the country. According to the Ethiopian Monitor news service, regulator the Ethiopian Communications Authority (ECA) has had requests for a delay to the submission date for the Request for Qualification (RFQ) relating to the new license. The process initially had 15 September as a deadline for RFQ submission. However, the ECA has now said that it has received concerns and requests from several prospective investors to extend the deadline. The regulator has responded by extending the RFQ submission date by 20 more days. Submissions are now due by 6 October. The RFQ process began on 30 July. The process is a part of the governments plan to issue the full-service License B, as it is known, to private investors within six months. When the new licence is finally awarded, state-owned Ethio Telecom and recent arrival Safaricom wont make things easy for the new player as they continue to battle it out for subscriber numbers. Last week, as we reported, Ethio Telecom announced that it had rolled out commercial 5G services in Addis Ababa. The week before came news of a free data campaign from Safaricom alongside web innovator Opera. Theres still room for a new entrant to take on these two operators, but further delays could make things difficult. Meanwhile, of course, plans are under way for a tender to sell up to 40 % of shares in Ethio Telecom. The 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) in Negros Oriental will proceed on October 30, despite the appeals for its postponement due to the reported political violence in the province. Commission on Elections (Comelec) chairperson George Garcia, however, said Monday that the entire province will be placed under the control of the poll body and necessary guidelines on how this will be implemented will be released soon. The Comelec decided to push through with this because based on the papers, documents, and evidence we gathered from the place where the Comelec held a three-day hearing, we found out that people overwhelmingly want the election to continue on October 30, Garcia said. Garcia said both the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) wanted the same. Meanwhile, police arrested another teenager in south Metro Manila for violating the election gun ban. On Sunday, 18-year-old Ronilo Reyes was apprehended by Pasay City Malibay Police Substation for Alarm and Scandal, and violation of Republic Act 10591 (Possession of a Gun Replica) in relation to RA 7166 (Omnibus Election Code). The suspect was found shouting and brandishing a gun replica that caused a disturbance along Apelo Cruz Street in Barangay 157 Zone 16 around 2 p.m. Responding policemen found the suspect holding a gas blowback-type gun replica resembling a silver .9mm Beretta pistol equipped with a magazine containing 15 pellets. Pamplona Mayor Janice Degamo and eight other mayors from Negros Oriental earlier appealed to the Comelec to postpone the BSKE in the province, citing peace and order concerns. During a Senate inquiry into the killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo, several senators also asked the poll body to consider the possibility of holding off the elections amid the political violence in the province. The Comelec then announced that public hearings will be conducted in Negros Oriental to assess its current situation, particularly its peace and order status, to determine whether the BSKE should be postponed in the province. Negros Oriental Roel Degamo and five others were killed when armed men fired shots while the official was distributing aid at his residence in Pamplona, Negros Oriental on March 4. DERNA, LibyaUN agencies warned Monday that Libyas flood-stricken city of Derna, where thousands were killed a week ago, faces the threat of disease outbreaks that could bring a second devastating crisis. The massive flash flood that has killed over 3,000 people and left thousands more missing came as the war-scarred North African country was lashed by the hurricane-strength Storm Daniel on September 10. Traumatized residents, 30,000 of whom are now homeless, badly need clean water, food and basic supplies amid a growing risk of cholera, diarrhea, dehydration and malnutrition, UN agencies warn. Teams from nine UN agencies have been on the ground delivering aid and support to those affected by Storm Daniel and the flash flooding for the last few days, said the UN Support Mission in Libya. But it warned that local officials, aid agencies and the UN World Health Organization are concerned about the risk of disease outbreak, particularly from contaminated water and the lack of sanitation. The team continues to work to prevent diseases from taking hold and causing a second devastating crisis in the area, UNSMIL said in a statement. Rapidly rising waters burst two upstream river dams in Derna, sending a late-night tidal wave crashing through the centre of the coastal city of 100,000 that swept entire residential blocks into the Mediterranean. UN teams also including the childrens relief fund UNICEF, refugee agency UNHCR and World Food Program have been in and around Derna for the past few days to help the survivors. UNICEF teams have delivered medical kits to primary care services to support 15,000 people for three months while the UNHCR distributed supplies including blankets, tarpaulins and kitchen equipment to 6,200 displaced families in Derna and Benghazi, said UNSMIL. So far food rations have been distributed to over 5,000 households through the World Food Program, and 28 tonnes of medical supplies have been shipped by charter flight from the World Health Organization, which has also donated ambulances and medical kits. Last week, the United Nations launched an aid appeal for more than $71 million for the emergency response in Derna and other parts of eastern Libya. VATICAN City, Holy SeeCalls for compassion for migrants suffering in North Africa and those attempting to reach Europe or die trying will be at the heart of Pope Franciss visit to Marseille this week. The pontiff is making a two-day trip to Frances second-largest city, a historic gateway for immigrants, where he is expected to insist on the causes of migration, from poverty to climate change, and urge greater tolerance. He is also likely to address the horrors many migrants face in North Africa, from internment in brutal camps to being left by traffickers to die in the desert. The visit comes as a surge in the number of migrant arrivals in Italy revives a bitter debate over how European countries manage asylum seekers. It represents a challenge that is not easy, as we also see from the news in recent days, but which must be faced together, Francis said after his Angelus prayer on Sunday in Rome. It is essential for the future of all, which will be prosperous only if it is built on fraternity, putting human dignity and real people, especially those most in need, in first place, he said. The Marseille trip comes as Francis, 86, is in increasingly fragile health, saying on his return from Mongolia this month that papal voyages were not as easy as they used to be. But he continues to travel widely, focusing on the smaller Catholic communities the Vatican calls the peripheries. He is visiting Marseille first and foremost to take part in a meeting of Mediterranean-area Catholic bishops and young people. I will go to Marseille, but not to France, Francis said in August, despite the risk of offending French Catholics, in particular those on the conservative fringe, who think he goes too far with his messages of compassion for migrants. The port city is a key destination for migrants from North Africa and is also home to some of the poorest neighbourhoods in Europe, many of which are plagued by drug trafficking. The problem that concerns me is the Mediterranean problem The exploitation of migrants is criminal, Francis said in August. More than 2,300 migrants have died so far this year attempting the Mediterranean crossing from North Africa, according to the UN. The Marseille event, Mediterranean Meetings, will look at themes including economic inequality, migration and climate change. The pope is expected to speak to bishops active in North Africa in particular about the challenges there. The Mediterranean is a cemetery. But its not the biggest: the biggest cemetery is in North Africa, Francis told reporters in August. Its terrible. Thats why Im going to Marseille. The pope will start at the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, a symbolic monument overlooking the city, for a prayer with the clergy on Friday afternoon. That will be followed by a moment of meditation with representatives of other religions in front of a memorial dedicated to sailors and migrants lost at sea. On Saturday morning, he will take part in the closing Mediterranean Meetings session at the Palais du Pharo overlooking the port, before leading a mass in the Velodrome stadium for about 57,000 participants. French President Emmanuel Macron will be at the final mass, a decision that sparked controversy among left-wing politicians in the strictly secular country. Some also accuse Macron of having postponed the presentation of a bill on end-of-life care, a debate likely to include discussion over extending euthanasia laws a red flag to the Catholic Church so as not to interfere with the visit. The Jesuit pope has a cordial relationship with Macron, who was himself Jesuit-educated, and the leaders have already seen each other three times. There is a real familiarity, a real complicity between Macron and the pope, Vatican journalist Bernard Lecomte told AFP. Crowd-loving Francis, the first pope to visit France since Benedict XVI in 2008, will ride in his popemobile up the citys Avenue du Prado after the mass. Throughout his visit, he will be accompanied by the archbishop of Marseille, Jean-Marc Aveline, a close friend who was made cardinal in 2022. Around 5,000 police and other security forces will be mobilised for the trip, one welcomed by some residents though others have questioned whether Francis understands the challenges large numbers of migrants pose to the city. I dont entirely agree with the pope when he says we must welcome all migrants, said Yvette Devallois, 69, who is active in her local parish. We welcome migrants, but still, we cant take in all the misery in the world. Japan on Monday raised concern over the extensive maritime damage in waters frequented by Chinese militia vessels in the West Philippine Sea, but China quickly shot back by denouncing Tokyos release of contaminated water from its Fukushima nuclear plant. The Japanese Embassy in Manila said the damage done to coral reefs, presumably by Chinese boats in Rozul (Iroquois) Reef was very alarming news. Our oceans are the lifeblood of our plant, and coral reefs are its colorful heartbeat. Lets preserve and protect these vital ecosystems for generations to come, Japans Ambassador to the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko said on his X social media account. He was referring to a report from the Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Command, which said it suspected Chinese boats were behind the extensive damage done to the corrals in the West Philippine Sea. But the Chinese Embassy did not let the Japanese ambassadors remarks go unanswered. Agreeing that oceans are indeed the lifeblood of our planet, the Chinese Embassy urged Japan to stop the release of contaminated water from Fukushima. China has objected to Japans release of treated radioactive water into the oceana move that was approved by the International Atomic Energy Agency. On Monday, the Philippine Coast Guard confirmed the extensive maritime damage in areas frequented by Chinese maritime militia. The PCG fully supports and confirms the report released by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Command (WESCOM), exposing the severe damage inflicted upon the marine environment and coral reef in the seabed of Rozul Reef and Escoda Shoal, Jay Tarriela, PCG spokesman, said. Tarriela said surveys conducted by the PCG in Escoda shoal revealed the effects of Chinas underwater activities in the region. The surveys conducted in Escoda Shoal revealed visible discoloration of its seabed, strongly indicating that deliberate activities may have been undertaken to modify the natural topography of its underwater terrain, Tarriela said in a statement. The presence of crushed corals strongly suggests a potential act of dumping, possibly involving the same dead corals that were previously processed and cleaned before being returned to the seabed, he added. Jay Batongbacal, director of the University of the Philippines Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea, said the rampant coral harvesting in Rozul Reef in the West Philippine Sea could have dire implications for the countrys food security. Batongbacal said he had no doubt it was China behind the reef destruction. He noted Chinese vessels often destroy the coral reefs to extract the giant clams underneath, which the Chinese use as a substitute for ivory. The environmental group Pamalakaya urged the government to do further damage assessment on the corals in Rozul Reef. The groups vice chairman for Luzon, Bobby Roldan, said it could take 20 years for a coral reef to recover. There is a need to identify if the swarmed area was subjected to coral harvesting, clam hunting, or any military activities that destroyed its vast coral reefs, he said in a statement. Batongbacal also urged the government to consider sending Navy vessels to protect the coral reefs. Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri pressed China to respect the countrys coral reefs and other marine resources if they cannot respect the 2016b arbitral ruling that debunked its expansive claims in the South China Sea. Sen. Jinggoy Estrada also condemned the destruction at the Rozul Reef and Escoda Shoal. He branded as a matter of grave concern reports of deliberate, man-made alteration to the natural topography of its underwater terrain, allegedly carried out by the Chinese maritime militia in these areas. These invaluable natural resources, Estrada said, are not only crucial to the ecological balance of the oceans but also hold immense cultural and economic significance for the Filipino people. We call upon the responsible authorities to also raise awareness and consciousness on maritime and archipelagic issues and concerns and uphold our national sovereignty and territorial integrity, he said. Senator Francis Tolentino said the harvesting of coral might be a prelude to reclamation. Tolentino, who chairs the Senate special committee on maritime and admiralty zones, also noted that the harvesting of corals is a violation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Fishermen from Masinloc, Zambales continued to complain about Chinese bullying in Scarborough Shoal. Leonardo Cuaresma, the president of the Masinloc Fishermans Association, said the Chinese forced them to barter their catch for a kilo of expired noodles. Moscow, Russia North Korean leader Kim Jong Un left Russia on Sunday after a rare six-day visit that appeared to solidify his countrys ties with President Vladimir Putin, fanning Western fears that Pyongyang could provide Moscow with weapons for its assault on Ukraine. Kims tour of Russias Far East, which began on Tuesday, has focused intensely on military cooperation, including a symbolic exchange of rifles with Putin and an inspection of state-of-the-art Russian weapons. Kims first official visit abroad since the coronavirus pandemic has sparked concerns that Moscow and Pyongyang will defy Western sanctions to secure an arms deal that could help the Kremlin continue its assault against Ukraine. In comments broadcast on national television on Sunday, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that Russia will pursue cooperation with North Korea despite UN sanctions. We did not announce sanctions against North Korea, the Security Council did, he said. We will be developing equal, fair interaction with the DPRK, Lavrov said, using North Koreas official name. Before departing from Vladivostok, the Pacific port city just over the border, Kim was presented with five explosive drones, a reconnaissance drone and a bulletproof vest as gifts from the governor of the Primorye region, which borders China and North Korea. He also visited the Far Eastern State University and appeared particularly pleased as he watched a walrus show at a local oceanarium. Vodka toasts Summing up the North Korean leaders visit, Russian Natural Resources Minister Alexander Kozlov, who accompanied him, said a lot had been discussed. Kim Jong Un was very interested in and paid attention to minute details, Kozlov said. He made no mention of any agreements concerning military matters, but said the two sides discussed increasing supplies of grain and the resumption of regular air travel. The two countries also discussed reviving long-muted infrastructure projects, he said. Government officials from the two countries also agreed to meet in Pyongyang in November, Kozlov added. At the end of Kims visit, official Russian video footage showed him waving goodbye from his heavily armoured train to a Russian delegation, before the Russian march Farewell of Slavianka was played as the train departed. Russia and North Korea, historic allies, are both under rafts of global sanctions Moscow for its Ukraine offensive, Pyongyang for its nuclear weapon tests. On Saturday, Kim met Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu in Vladivostok, where he inspected state-of-the-art weapons including a hypersonic missile system. The pair were seen smiling as they inspected some of Russias nuclear bombers at an airfield before boarding a warship. North Korean news agency KCNA later published pictures of a smiling Kim wearing a traditional Russian fur hat and raising a glass of vodka with Shoigu and their delegations. Greater cooperation On Wednesday, Putin and Kim held talks at Russias new Vostochny cosmodrome, roughly 8,000 kilometres (5,000 miles) from Moscow. After the meeting Putin talked up the prospect of greater cooperation with North Korea and the possibilities for military ties. Moscow is believed to be interested in buying North Korean ammunition to continue fighting in Ukraine, while Pyongyang wants Russias help to develop its internationally condemned missile programme. The Kremlin has said no agreement has or will be signed. North Korean news agency KCNA has described Kims visit as fervent and warm and said a new era of friendship, solidarity and cooperation was opening between North Korea and Russia. While meeting Kim, Putin accepted an invitation to visit North Korea and offered to send a North Korean to space, which would be a first. Ukraine claims control of key town on eastern front Kyiv, Ukraine Ukraine said Sunday that its forces had retaken Klishchiivka, a tactically important town south of the key frontline city of Bakhmut, as it pursues a counter-attack against Russias grinding offensive. Battlefield victories are especially important for Ukraine as President Volodymyr Zelensky prepares his second wartime visit to Washington next week in a bid to rally support. But the advances came as two senior western figures cautioned against hopes of a swift end to the conflict. Klishchiivka was cleared of Russians, Oleksandr Syrsky, commander of the Ukrainian militarys ground forces, posted on social media. Zelensky praised the soldiers fighting near Bakhmut and singled out those who had retaken Klishchiivka, saying Well done! in his evening address to the nation. Zelensky also said that Kyiv was preparing new defence solutions for Ukraine, saying that air defence and artillery are the priority, without providing details. Klishchiivka, which was home to several hundred people before Moscow launched its offensive in February 2022, was captured by Russian troops in January. Ilya Yevlash, spokesman for Ukrainian troops in the east, said that control over Klishchiivka could help the Ukrainian army encircle Bakhmut, captured by Russian forces in May after one of the wars longest and bloodiest battles. We have now gained a staging ground, which will in the future allow us to continue to develop offensive actions and liberate our land from the occupiers, Yevlash said in a televised statement. The capture of the village would allow Ukrainian forces to advance more easily towards Russian forces and deliver more accurate artillery strikes, he added. Words of caution The latest news from Kyiv came as the United Statess highest-ranking military officer said Sunday that Ukraines broader goal of ousting Russian forces from its territory faced a very high bar. General Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said that while the current counteroffensive by Ukraine was slower than the planners had anticipated, it has been steady. He dismissed commentary from some quarters that the offensive had failed, arguing that Ukraine has a lot of combat power remaining. The Ukrainians are not a spent force. However, he warned: Itll take a considerable length of time to militarily eject all 200,000 or plus Russian troops out of Russian-occupied Ukraine. Thats a very high bar. Its going to take a long time to do it. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg also warned there would be no swift end to the conflict, in an interview published Sunday. Most wars last longer than expected when they first begin, Stoltenberg told Germanys Funke media group. Therefore we must prepare ourselves for a long war in Ukraine, even if everyone is wishing for a swift peace. The claimed recovery of Klishchiivka came after Ukraines armed forces said Friday that the village of Andriivka, also located south of the eastern city of Bakhmut, had been retaken. On Saturday, Russia denied its forces had been pushed out of the frontline village. Kyiv began pushing back against Moscows forces in the south and east of the country in June after building up Western weapons and recruiting assault battalions. Ukrainian forces initially focussed on the northern and southern flanks of Bakhmut and have since been posting incremental gains. The national security objectives outlined in the new NSP have been formulated by evaluating the evolving strategic landscape and aligning them with the countrys socio-political values, fundamental laws, and core national interests. The new NSP encompasses several key national security priorities within each of these core areas: National Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity, Political Stability, Peace, and Public Safety, Economic Strength and Solidarity, National Identity, Harmony, and a Culture of Excellence, Ecological Balance, and Climate Change Resilience, Cybersecurity, Information Security, and Cognitive Security, as well as Regional and International Peace and Stability. To implement the NSP 2023-2028 effectively, a set of guiding principles has been defined, including: Fostering Inclusivity; Promoting Trust and Optimism and Strengthening Leadership Resolve; Ensuring Strategic Alignment; Benchmarking Against International Norms and Best Practices; Anticipating the Future and Being Proactive; Promoting Consistency and Continuity; Sustaining Wealth Creation and Generation; Measuring Effectiveness and Collecting Feedback; Constituting Oversight and Developing Advocacy Plans. To achieve success, the NSP 2023-2028 relies on a comprehensive approach that involves the entire government and nation. All government departments, agencies, and other entities of the government should incorporate and synchronize the NSP with their own plans, programs, and strategies. Additionally, policymakers can use this document as a guiding tool when crafting legislation related to national security matters. Likewise, the government seeks the support and active participation of the Filipino public in contributing meaningfully to the realization of the NSPs vision and objectives. It is only through national unity that the Filipino nation can confidently anticipate a more prosperous, secure, and promising future. The West Philippine Sea issue has now become the primary national security concern for the Philippines. This is consistent with the statements of Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro who clearly has a comprehensive and strategic view of national security. The country asserts its sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction over the West Philippine Sea in accordance with the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the legally binding South China Sea Arbitration Award of July 12, 2016. Despite the clarity of these principles in international law, other claimant states persist in making territorial claims in this strategic waterway. These differing claims and the methods employed by claimants to assert their positions continue to present strategic challenges. These challenges not only threaten the Philippines territorial integrity but also jeopardize the legitimate rights, safety, and well-being of the Filipino people. Marcos gave his endorsement to the National Security Policy 2023-2028 via Executive Order 7 on August 10, shortly following an incident where Chinese Coast Guard ships and Chinese military militia obstructed and used water cannons against Philippine vessels while they were en route to Ayungin Shoal for a resupply mission. In this regard, the Marcos Jr. administration has made it a top focus of his foreign policy to address the Philippines maritime conflict with China, bolstering diplomatic and security alliances with the nations partners to counter Chinas increasing presence in Philippine waters. Additionally, President Marcos Jr. has pledged to safeguard the nations interests while fostering positive international relations. This more assertive stance is in stark contrast to the cozy dalliance by the Duterte administration with China. The Philippines is also worried about the impact of any conflict on its economic stability, the possibility of an influx of refugees, and the welfare of its overseas populations. A military conflict in the Taiwan Strait would unavoidably affect the Philippines due to the close geographic proximity of Taiwan to the Philippine archipelago and the presence of more than 150,000 Filipinos in Taiwan. The NSP document underscores a range of external challenges, including the ongoing strife in the Taiwan Strait and the Korean peninsula, as well as Russias engagement in military conflict within Ukraine. Climate change and other global challenges is also highlighted. In contrast, during the preceding administration led by Rodrigo Duterte, the focus was primarily on addressing internal issues. Core policies during Dutertes leadership revolved around an intense crackdown on illegal drugs, characterized by a rigorous war on drugs, along with the continuous identification and pursuit of individuals purportedly linked to the Communist Party, a practice often referred to as red-tagging, among other key initiatives. In the Marcos policy, this approach is rejected but on the ground there is still this obsession with illegal drugs and the insurgency. The one gap in the Marcos national security policy is the inadequacy of its approach to the peace negotiations with the Communist Party of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines. That guarantees that the longest communist insurgency in the world will continue beyond the Marcos administration. A comprehensive permanent peace settlement is the only path to end such an urgency. Local initiatives can only do so much. Overall, however, the Marcos National Security Policy for the years 2023-2028 is a visionary and all-encompassing approach aimed at protecting the Philippines vital interests, preserving its sovereignty, and tackling urgent global issues. By steadfastly following its guiding principles and promoting a sense of national cohesion, the Philippines strives to ensure a future characterized by prosperity, safety, and promise in an ever-evolving and interconnected global landscape. This ends my series on national security policy. I will continue to monitor the implementation of the Marcos policy. I am sure with Secretary Teodoro in charge of this the policy objectives articulated will be achieved. Website: tonylavina.com. Facebook: tonylavs X: tonylavs Massachusetts residents can get up-close and meet alpacas during National Alpaca Farm Days on Sept. 23-24. There are multiple farms in Massachusetts participating in the unique weekend. These include Forever Free Alpaca Farm in Cummington, Harvard Alpaca Ranch, Hill Crest Alpacas in North Dartmouth and Island Alpaca Co of Marthas Vineyard. The weekend includes meeting the alpacas, feeling the fleece, learning about raising and breeding the animals, learning about their products and more. An alpacaAya Miller But the Alpaca Owners Association warns, alpacas can spit. They suggest approaching the animals slowly and calmly, talking in a calm soothing voice, touch the top of its back, shoulders or side of its neck and talk to the handlers about any specifics. Dont alpacas head, hindquarters, tail, or toes, hug the alpaca or stand behind them. Alpacas are gentle animals and love to have their picture taken, the website states. For more about the weekend, click here. The floods this week in Massachusetts that put a few dams at risk have raised concern the structures may increasingly be at risk as the region is hit by stronger and wetter storms. There are thousands of dams across New England and many were built decades if not centuries ago, often to help power textile mills, store water or supply irrigation to farms. The concern is they have outlived their usefulness and climate change could bring storms they were never built to withstand. When they were built, the climate was different. The design storms were different, said Robert Kearns, a climate resilience specialist with the Charles River Watershed Association. Leominster, Massachusetts, Kearns noted, got almost 11 inches (27.9 centimeters) of rain over several hours Monday night. At least two of the citys 24 dams nearly failed this week, prompting the city to recommend residents evacuate before the threat subsided. This infrastructure, the culverts, the dams, they were not built for the volume of water that were seeing and were going to continue to see in the future, he added. A federal database lists nearly 4,000 dams in New England, with 176 categorized as high-hazard structures that are in either poor or unsatisfactory condition. If these dams fail, they would pose a risk to people living downstream as well as roads, neighborhoods and key infrastructure such as water treatment plants. Read more: Mayor urges UMass Memorial to save Leominster birth ward in wake of flooding An investigation by The Associated Press in 2022 found the number of high-hazard dams was on the rise: More than 2,200 nationwide, up substantially from a similar AP review conducted three years earlier. The number is likely even higher, although its unclear because some states dont track the data and many federal agencies refuse to release details about dam conditions. In the 2019 AP investigation, a review of inspection reports found a host of problems with the dams, including leaks indicating internal failure, unrepaired erosion, holes from burrowing animals and extensive tree growth, which can destabilize earthen dams. In some cases, inspectors flagged spillways too small to handle the amount of water that could result from increasingly intense rainstorms. Part of the challenge is dam safety has long been ignored by policymakers, requiring many states to run their dam safety programs on shoestring budgets and repairs can take years. Advocates also say many programs lack transparency so communities may not even know a dangerous dam upstream poses a risk, while others complain dam safety officials have been slow to recognize the threat of climate change. We are not seeing a shift in mindset related to dams that we should be seeing in light of the massive changes were seeing from climate change in terms of particularly more extreme storms, said Emily Norton, executive director of the Charles River Watershed Association. We think there should be much more sense of urgency about dam assessment and dam removal. Christine Hatch, a University of Massachusetts Amherst hydrogeologist, said Massachusetts needs to do a statewide dam assessment to determine how best to spend its limited resources. The reality of climate change is that whatever we thought was safe enough when we built it isnt safe enough anymore, Hatch said. There isnt enough money to upsize all those or retrofit them. An assessment is needed to decide which dams are essential and which are dangerous, Hatch said. New England has seen numerous dam failures over the years. Read more: Here are some GoFundMe campaigns to help Leominster residents impacted by flooding More than 50 have failed in New Hampshire over the past century, including the Meadow Pond Dam, which ruptured in 1996, killing a woman and flooding a neighborhood. There have been about 70 in Vermont, including the 1947 failure of East Pittsford Dam that devastated Rutland. Five failed in Rhode Island during a 2010 storm, prompting the state to examine all dam spillways. A 2019 study found a quarter of the states high-hazard dams could not hold up to a 100-year storm an event with a 1% chance of happening in a given year and 17% couldnt survive a 500-year storm, which has a 0.2% chance of occurring in a year. Several dams nearly failed in Vermont this summer during heavy flooding, including one that would have inundated parts of Montpelier, the capital. Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey said Wednesday that the administration is keeping an eye on dams across the state. Read more: How to help Leominster residents after flooding damages parts of city We have already monitored the conditions of dams in many communities. Our Office of Dam Safety was on the ground, particularly in Leominster, the other day to take quick action working with others to make sure those dams were shored up. But its something were going to continue to watch, Healey said. Healey has warned about the increasing toll of climate change. A series of recent storms, including torrential rains in July that flooded farms in western Massachusetts, have highlighted the importance or bolstering the states defenses, she said. Obviously, this speaks to the need for federal funding which Im pursuing and also the need for continued investments in resilience and in infrastructure because weve seen the devastating results of these storms, she said. What weve seen with these storms, and it is different, is it can turn on a dime. The playbook cant be the same. The Barrett Park Pond Dam, located on a 9-acre (3.6-hectare) pond in Leominster, suffered significant damage during this weeks floods. Failure of the dam, which dates to the 1800s, could have sent water into a residential neighborhood downhill, state officials said. Last inspected in 2021, the dam was found to be in poor condition. The city received a $163,500 grant for repairs but was still in the design phase when the flooding hit. The good news was that the 24 dams held, said Leominsters director of emergency management, Arthur Elbthal, adding that proposed repairs must go through the timely budget process. I do know what we have here is what we can build on, he said. Certainly, we need to pay attention to them. ... Every piece of infrastructure, whether its a road, a sewer line, a dam, we are always looking to keep them repaired and functioning as they should. I dont see any change in that now. SPRINGFIELD On her daily walk with her mom and little sister, Meadow Menard found something new a little library. The 7-year-old opened the door and spotted an interesting picture book. She grabbed it and walked across her neighbors lawn while flipping through the pages of Old Turtle, by Douglas Wood. In the three weeks since Kathy Balakier opened the little library in front of her home on Saratoga Avenue, she has met new neighbors, caught one person donating a few books in the early morning and even witnessed a family spread out on her front lawn and the empty tree belt across the street reading books. I think sharing and being kind is so important, Balakier said, adding she is so excited to see her little library be so well received by children and adults alike. Balakier, now retired from a long career of teaching mostly elementary school science in several Springfield schools, including William DeBerry, Homer Street and Talmadge, had seen little libraries, especially when vacationing on the Connecticut shore. She always wanted one. Recently a friend heard her say that and gave her a premade box as a gift. Another friend, retired Fire Dept. Capt. Mark Galarneau, built the base for the box. Her husband, City Councilor George Balakier, then painted the box eye-catching red, yellow and blue. The "Free Little Library" at the Balakier home on Saratoga Ave. in Chicopee. (Don Treeger / The Republican) 9/14/2023 The couple put a bench below it, inviting people to stay and read. A flag, which Kathy Balakier found online, says Take a book, leave a book, love a book, keep a book. Giving back About two years ago, Balakier become seriously ill and needed a liver transplant. When no relatives turned out to be a match for her, her family went public to find a live donor who could give a piece of their liver and save her life. The campaign worked and she is now doing well. I wanted to thank my neighbors and my community for all they did for me, she said. This is a way of bringing people together. While they give people who stop by space to browse on their own, the Balakiers said they have enjoyed meeting neighbors who may live a street or two away who have stopped at the library to swap out books. Breanna Menard, who lives around the corner from the Balakiers and often walks with Meadow and her younger daughter Summer, 2, said they appreciate the mini library. She said her children have visited several times and recently enjoyed a Finding Dory puzzle book they borrowed and later returned. This is our daily walking route and it (the library) turned up one day and we were really excited, she said. They often will walk farther to the Chicopee Public Library nearby on Front Street, but the little streetside box of books gives her family another place to borrow, Menard said. Its not just neighbors who have gotten involved. Friends have offered books to her. Recently, a former teacher who swims at the Greater Holyoke YMCA with the Balakiers offered them a box of classics and a second box filled with Dr. Seuss books that they are thrilled to add to their collection. At the "Free Little Library" on Saratoga Ave. in Chicopee are from left, George Balakier, his sister Linda Balakier, wife Linda and neighbors Breanna Menard with children Meadow, 7, and Summer, 2. They are at the Balakier home. (Doni Treeger / The Republican) 9/14/2023 Balakier tries to have a little bit of everything in her library. There are books for adults, some for teens, chapter books for older elementary school children and picture books for the youngest readers. On one recent day she had books from popular adult authors such as Tom Clancy and Agatha Christie for adults and for children there was one from Judy Blume, another by R.L. Stine from his popular Goosebumps series and a book by Lemony Snicket that Balakier had just put in the box. While books in the library naturally rotate as people take a book and leave a book, Balakier said she tries to rotate in new books often, so people who visit get to see something new every time. She is also putting aside books so she can add in different themes for holidays and seasons. Linda Balakier also stopped by to see how the library was going. As a former vice principal at the Patrick E. Bowe School, she said she was thrilled to see her brother and sister-in-law helping to promote reading and getting books into the hands of children. It is great. It is a nice, neighborly thing to do, she said. George Balakier said the box weathered a recent blow, when major thunderstorms brought flash flooding to the region. He covered the box to protect books from the driving rain, but so far the box has proved to be waterproof. They plan to take it down in the winter, figuring it may not weather heavy snows and dont want it damaged by snowplows. Since they have received so many donations, he is now considering building an addition to the Little Library by adding a lower box that would hold childrens books, especially picture books, which younger readers can reach by themselves. Kathy Balakier is also brainstorming about ideas to promote the library when families come by trick-or-treating on Halloween. J.K. Rowling once said I do believe something magical can happen when you read a good book, Kathy Balakier said. And that seems to have come true, at least for the Balakiers. I cant tell you how happy this has made us, she said. A child was critically injured in a Sunday night shooting in Boston, according to the Boston Police Department. The shooting happened in the rear courtyard of 50 Ames St. in Dorchester just before 8:30 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 17, police said. Five people were injured, three were adults and two were children. One child was said to have life-threatening injuries while the rest had non-life-threatening injuries, according to police. All five were taken to area hospitals for treatment. During a press conference Sunday night, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu expressed her frustration surrounding the shooting. Read More: Springfield pedestrian dies after being hit by 2 cars Im angry, Im upset as a mom, as someone whos been working with all of our teams to make sure that we can do everything possible to create opportunities in the city, Wu said during the press conference. These are the evenings where it just reminds you we cant move fast enough in working to make sure that all of our young people have what they need, that were getting guns off the streets. Read More: Several people kicked out of The Big E after large fight breaks out opening day So far, no suspects have been identified and no arrests have been made, according to police. The investigation is ongoing and Boston police are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Boston Police Departments homicide unit at 617-343-4470. Anonymous tips can made by calling the CrimeStoppers tip line at 1-800-494-TIPS. The Federal Emergency Management Agency answered Leominsters call for help after flood waters damaged parts of the city on Monday, Sept. 11, Mayor Dean Mazzarella said on a Facebook livestream on Monday. Leominster was declared a federal disaster area by President Joe Biden, Mazzarella said. Read more: Here are some GoFundMe campaigns to help Leominster residents impacted by flooding Now we kick into that process, he said. Were getting familiar with that process, but right now the best thing that we could do is if youve sustained any kind of damage, is to fill out one of these forms that Ill show you. Provided through the city website and the citys Facebook page, the mayor warned Sept. 18 that filling out forms was no guarantee for funding, but is a way in which the city can reach everyone with flood damage. Mazzarella said the city has so far received about 400 forms from Leominster residents. So you have a home, Mazzarella said. You got flooded. Your hot water tanks gone. Your boilers gone. Your electrical system was submerged. We have a number of locations where the water got so high the electrical panels got submerged. When those electrical panels dry out, theyre like wicks. They can easily catch fire. Were trying to identify those locations... The big thing seems to be now, after the cleanup, is going to be hot water tanks, electrical panels and furnaces. With more rain expected to douse Central Massachusetts on Monday, running the risk of renewed flooding one week later, Mazzarella said cleanup should continue through the day and all through the week. Conditions are expected to clear up starting Tuesday morning. Schools were back in session on Monday with regular schedules, he said, after a delayed two-hour start on Thursday. Meanwhile, businesses continue to be open despite some experiencing severe flooding last week. Its been tough... Mazzarella said of those affected businesses. People got wiped out. They suffered... If you can, please go to your local businesses to support them. Over the weekend, crews tended to weakened railroad beds from the Fitchburg-Boston line, Mazzarella said. Trains normally heading for Leominster have stopped in Shirley, with buses connecting the train stations in North Leominster, Fitchburg and Wachusett, the Telegram & Gazette reported. Roads previously closed due to flooding are expected to reopen throughout the week, he added. Roads with sinkholes continue to be under repair. Even with all the work still being done, Mazzarella assured that the Johnny Appleseed Festival is still on track to happen on Saturday, Sept 23. It will be ready to go and is expected to bring out community spirit after whats happened, the mayor said. Read more: See drone footage of flooding aftermath on Lancaster Street in Leominster When you face a community like this and everyone comes together, as everyone does... thats community, thats what makes us special here, he said. People know each other, you go to a store, we still have coffee shops. Thats community, right? Keep the spirit, he said. HOLYOKE Amid calls for better housing solutions, Mayor Joshua A. Garcia said he supported establishing an office of tenant protection. The complexity right now is time and funding actually to put it together, Garcia said. Thats why were starting with bringing on board a position that works out of this office. The renters advocate would work closely with the community, ensuring tenant concerns are addressed in real time. However, the mayor cautioned that the process might take longer than many hoped. Were moving in that direction, but its not going to happen as fast as people would like, he said. The move responds to the year-long plea from some Holyoke residents. The city of Holyoke must draft an ordinance creating the position, identify funding, and obtain City Council approval. Neighbor to Neighbor Massachusetts, an advocacy group focused on housing issues, has spearheaded efforts to improve living conditions for 64% of Holyokes population who rent. As part of its strategy, it has organized renter rallies where it calls for better protections for renters. It held one in Holyoke on Sept. 13. We wont stop until everyone has safe, dignified, secure housing, said Katie Talbot, the groups lead organizer. The group has suggested solutions like a public registry of property owners and a support system to address tenant queries. Highlighting the citys proactive approach to addressing housing-related complaints, Garcia said his staff spends about a third of its time dealing with such issues. With departments like the Board of Health actively addressing public health concerns and housing violations, the mayor sees the missing element as the face-to-face case management liaison, which the proposed housing navigator role would fill. The last 50 years of decisions have created the current housing crisis, said Christiana Haramut, a rally speaker and member of Neighbor to Neighbor. The Office of Tenant Protections is a local solution, and Im eager to work alongside the mayors team. Yet, while Garcias support was well-received, residents and advocates continue to push for more decisive actions against neglectful landlords. Neighbor to Neighbor has backed state Sen. John Velis statewide housing initiatives, as he supports an overall review of housing policies in Massachusetts. Melodi Johnson, a member of Neighbor to Neighbor, emphasized the urgency of passing legislation that would address housing issues across the state. Im not just a rent check. Legislation should protect renters, she declared. This story has been clarified to reflect that Sen. John Velis supports an overall review of housing policies in Massachusetts. In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, MassLive asked readers to identify people who are emerging Hispanic leaders throughout the state, working to make a difference in their own area of interest, be it politics, education, business or the arts. These are people our readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change. Jonathan Alicea, president of the Latino Counseling Center, speaks during the ribbon cutting ceremony to mark their new offices at 121 State Street in downtown Springfield. (Don Treeger / The Republican) Jonathan Alicea Age: 40 Community: Springfield His story: While working in the Springfield school system, Jonathan Alicea noticed a need for more professionals to help with childrens mental health. I noticed that some agencies were not doing what they were supposed to be doing, Alicea said. Alicea decided to create the Latino Counseling Center to help close the gap in mental health services for youth and adults in Springfield who might be struggling. Alicea said Latino Counseling Center is different than other agencies because it focuses on working with minority populations with an emphasis on providing youth under the age of 21 with services including therapy, psychological assessments and prescriptions. The center also works with adults. While the center has the word Latino in its name, Alicea said they work with anyone who needs help. The name, instead, is a way to pay tribute to growing up in Puerto Rico. I feel like this is a great opportunity for me to represent my people. And I strongly believe I need to do that very well, Alicea said. Im not only representing myself, I strongly believe that Im representing Puerto Rico. Read more: Luzed Guzman Romano advocates for more equitable work environments for women With 75 employees and a second Springfield location which opened in August, Alicea said the future of the center looks bright. The center has several partnerships with some Springfield schools but is looking to have more with the hope of placing a clinician in each school, Alicea said. In the meantime, Alicea is also almost done completing his doctorate as a school psychologist on top of his bachelors degree in criminal justice and masters degree in mental health. Read more: Daniel Rojas practices immigration law to give back to the Hispanic community I love what I do as a mental health professional, we have a lot of work to do, Alicea said. In his words: You need to have a lot of passion to do this job. Thats more important than education ... If you have the heart, go for it. Each day, we will introduce more leaders, and were always open to hear about more inspiring people. If youd like to suggest someone else who should be recognized, please fill out this form. UPDATE: As of 9:30 a.m. on Sept. 18, all lanes of traffic on the highway have reopened, according to MassDOT. Masses of junkyard debris spilled across Interstate 93 in Wilmington on Monday morning after a tractor-trailer rolled over on the highway, backing up traffic nearly to the New Hampshire border, according to Massachusetts State Police. The department got to the scene of the single-vehicle crash at 5 a.m. on Sept. 18, to find a tractor-trailer that had been hauling car part debris in an open trailer had rolled over on the southbound side of the highway near Exit 35. The driver was not injured in the crash, police said. However, all four lanes of the highway were closed as the truck had spilled car parts like those found in a junkyard across the road, police said. Though the left lane has reopened as of 7 a.m., traffic was backed up about nine miles, according to MassDOT. The departments crash map showed traffic nearly backed up to the New Hampshire border. Lengthy traffic delays on the southbound side of the highway remain as of 7:30 a.m., police said, as cleanup of the debris is ongoing and three lanes remain closed. In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, MassLive asked readers to identify people who are emerging Hispanic leaders throughout the state, working to make a difference in their own area of interest, be it politics, education, business or the arts. These are people our readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change. Constanza BartholomaeContributed photo Constanza Bartholomae Age: 31 Community: Worcester Her story: Constanza Bartholomae loves to learn. A self-described philomath, she didnt want to leave school even after completing her graduate degrees. She now works in faculty development at Bryant University, helping educators create and strengthen their teaching strategies, design curriculum and learn more about teaching and learning. She especially loves learning about the different fields and subjects the faculty members teach. Bartholomae also teaches Spanish as an adjunct faculty member at Worcester State University. She said she loves every aspect of her job, finding it exciting to learn about the different fields and subject matters of her colleagues and rewarding to be able to see their growth and progress. Their desire to learn inspires me every day, she said. In her words: If you are someone who loves to learn, dont stop find a hobby, audit a class, or interview someone who is in a field that you find to be interesting. Seek to grow and learn in these areas, as our own learning leads us to be better able to share our knowledge with others. Read more: Daniel Rojas practices immigration law to give back to the Hispanic community Each day, we will introduce more leaders, and were always open to hear about more inspiring people. If youd like to suggest someone else who should be recognized, please fill out this form. UPDATE: Police said the missing man has been located. Ludlow police are asking for the publics help in finding a missing 26-year-old man who is on the autism spectrum, according to the department. Brandon Beaudoin was last seen walking west on East Street by the Polish Club in Ludlow around 9 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 17. The 26-year-old was leaving his house, according to police. Beaudoin is about 6-feet tall, has shoulder-length dark brown hair and short facial hair and a mustache, according to police. A photo taken from a local business on East Street Sunday night showed Beaudoin wearing a brown plaid jacket and white shoes. **** Subject has been located **** Police Chief Daniel Valadas reports that the Ludlow Police Department is seeking the... Posted by Ludlow Police Department, MA on Monday, September 18, 2023 Ludlow police issued an alert to town residents. Residents in Springfield and Wilbraham should also be on the lookout for Beaudoin, police said. Massachusetts State Police with help from the Hampden County Sheriffs Department are also involved in the search. Anyone with information about Beaudoins whereabouts should call Ludlow police at 413-583-8305. U.S. News and World Report has released its top national liberal arts colleges, and Massachusetts has the top two. Williams and Amherst colleges nabbed the number 1 and number 2 spots respectively. Under pressure and scrutiny from members of the higher education community who have said among other things the rankings are based on limited criteria, ignore certain aspects of education and can be influenced by money, according to Forbes Magazine U.S. News significantly changed its ranking methods, eliminating five longstanding factors and adding new ones, the organization said. The top rankings did not change much, however, as Amherst and Williams consistently earn the top spots. Filling out the rest of the Massachusetts colleges in the rankings are Wellesley College at rank 5, Smith college at rank 16, College of the Holy Cross at rank 27, Mount Holyoke College at rank 34 and Wheaton College at rank 75. Changes to the ranking methodology this year included how often students from all socioeconomic backgrounds earned degrees, according to the U.S. News methodology section. The eliminated factors this year included standardized test scores, class size and alumni giving average. Some new factors included whether graduates earned more than high school graduates and first generation student graduation rates and performance. For Sana Fadel, keeping Massachusetts young people who run afoul of the law in the states juvenile justice system until they turn 20 isnt just about protecting public safety right now its about ensuring a brighter future down the road. Getting tried in adult court means a public record. It means its harder to find work and employment after their involvement with the criminal justice system ends. And it means that, if youre Black or Hispanic, youre more likely to face jail time than a white youth. Thats the message that Fadel, the deputy director of the advocacy group, Citizens for Juvenile Justice, delivered to a newly convened state Senate panel as it started taking an in-depth look at the way the commonwealths criminal justice system treats its emerging adult citizens. This is a harm reduction campaign, Fadel told the email newsletter MASSterList in an interview published ahead of the first meeting of the Senates Juvenile & Emerging Adult Justice Committee. State Sen. Brendan Crighton, the Essex County Democrat who chairs the panel, said last weeks hearing marked the beginning of an ongoing conversation about curbing recidivism in an age group that has the highest recidivism rate of any in the adult corrections system. Its our hope that the committee will be able to tackle the inequities faced by the youth in our state, Crighton said. Obviously, theres the hope of passing policy changes for the benefit of the entire commonwealth. Crighton is the lead Senate sponsor of a bill that would keep youthful offenders in the states juvenile justice system until theyre 20. Right now, 18- to 20-year-olds in the state can automatically be tried as adults, according to an analysis by Fadels group. A similar bill, sponsored by state Rep. James J. ODay, D-Worcester, is currently before the state House. According to an analysis by Fadels group, the commonwealth spends the most money with worst outcome for older teens, and the 18-20 cohort has the highest recidivism rate of any in the adult system, and double the recidivism of similar teens in the juvenile system. Further, the state is making things worse because exposure to punitive environments like adult jails and prisons and more severe collateral consequences can actually increase offending, the analysis asserts. In addition, there are vast racial disparities, with young Black men more likely to be incarcerated in adult corrections centers than their white counterparts. That racial disparity [leads] to lower educational and economic opportunities for young people of color, the analysis asserts. The roots of the debate Policymakers began considering the Raise the Age, issue as early as 2017, when the state Senate included language raising the maximum age to 19 in its version of a criminal justice reform bill, according to the Telegram & Gazette. The provision was scrapped during the negotiations with the state House, instead calling for the compromise creation of a statewide task force to study the issue, Commonwealth Magazine reported. In 2020, the task force decided against taking a position on whether to raise the age. Instead, the commonwealth concentrated on rehabilitation and reducing recidivism, according to Commonwealth Magazine. Through 2021, three states Vermont, Michigan and New York raised the maximum age level for juvenile court to 18, which means that a young adult can remain in the system until they turn 19. In 2022, Vermont raised its maximum age limit to 19, which means juvenile offenders could stay in the system until they turn 20, according to an analysis by the National Governors Association. There is growing movement to right-size juvenile justice systems to better meet the developmental needs of youth and young adults by examining the parameters of juvenile court jurisdiction, the NGAs analysis indicated. In recent years, several states have modified the upper age boundary of juvenile court jurisdiction, known colloquially as raise-the-age policies. A total of 47 states have amended laws that define minors for the purposes of juvenile court jurisdiction, as persons up to age 18, its authors wrote. What the science says Dr. Robert Kinscherff, the executive director of the Center for Law, Brain, and & Behavior at Massachusetts General Hospital, said the science is on the side of raising the maximum age for juvenile offenders. While juveniles can legally be tried as adults, theres a profound difference between adult and adolescent brains, according to an analysis by the American Bar Association. That boils down to the lack of prefrontal cortex development in young brains. That section of the brain controls, among other things, the ability to consider the consequences of ones actions and ones susceptibility to peer pressure. Whatever our own social perspective, science does offer an unbiased perspective, he told the Senate panel. If you wanted to intentionally craft a public policy approach that would be counterproductive, you would prosecute them as early as possible as adults and incarcerate them with adults. Then you would discharge them under circumstances that would make reentry difficult, he continued. Thats not to say that you should not hold them accountable. However, they need to be held accountable in ways that are developmentally aligned, rather than support the drivers of future criminal conduct. The age of full criminal jurisdiction should be raised to 21 the age of 18 has no scientific basis. The opposition Opponents of the measure have argued that the keeping emerging adults in the system until theyre 20 will over-burden an already busy juvenile justice system. In 2017, nine of the Bay States 11 district attorneys signed a letter opposing raising the age, arguing that " ... adopting a law, they wrote, that enables anyone to declare that I am not responsible for my actions, my brain is! is something no rational parent would accept, and creates a slippery slope that cannot be limited to only those within a given age range, the Juvenile Justice Exchange noted in a lengthy analysis published in 2020. Justice Amy Nechtem, the chief justice of the commonwealths juvenile court, also raised concerns. Much of our work in the juvenile court relies on the participation of parents and guardians and others that will surround the child, support the child with ongoing success in the community, Nechtem said, 2019, State House News Service reported at the time. Thats very different from an adult that will come into a family-centered juvenile court, and our oversight on this young person will be absolutely different from what is happening for the younger, Nechtem said, according to State House News Service. Their needs are different and their presence in the community is different, so it is, in my opinion, not a match for the juvenile court, I say respectfully. Justice Jay D. Blitzman, the former first justice of the states Juvenile Court for the Middlesex Division, has a different perspective. He told lawmakers last week that juvenile court much better situated to deal with emerging adults and to counter racial disparities in the system. Juvenile court judges do wield significant power, he said. We can honor the maxim that children are not little adults, but there can [be] real consequences, with juvenile judges [crafting] sentences that [balance] public safety against rehabilitation. For Crighton, the state lawmaker, last weeks hearing was the start of a much longer conversation. Despite a rainy Monday forecast, The Big E will still be open. West Springfield will see rain throughout the day, with patchy fog between 11 a.m. and noon, according to the National Weather Service. There will be a slight breeze in the afternoon, with a high near 67 degrees. The area could get between three quarters and one inch of rain, the weather service said. The rain is expected to last until about 11 p.m. Clouds will clear out closer to the evening, with a low around 56 degrees. The Big E is open rain or shine. The fairs website suggests visiting one of its 40 buildings, including Avenue of the States and Storrowton Village. For those looking for something fun to do inside Avenue of the States buildings, consider drinking around New England a nod to the TikTok trend of drinking around the world at Epcot in Disney World. People can also see animals in the Farm-A-Rama building. This includes seeing the Clydesdales, watching chicks hatch and seeing goats. A fake cow gives children the opportunity to try milking it. For more on daily weather ahead of going to The Big E, click here. A wet start to the work week could mean flooding for parts of Massachusetts Monday, Sept. 18, according to forecasters. A Flood Watch is in effect for the eastern portion of the state as well as the Worcester and Springfield areas starting at 11 a.m. until late at night, the National Weather Service said on X, formerly known as Twitter. Rain could fall between 1-2 inches within an hour. [Update - Flood Watch Expanded] The Flood Watch has been expanded further west and now covers the Hartford, to Springfield, to Worcester metro areas. Periods of heavy rain may result in flooding this afternoon and evening. The heaviest rain may coincide with the evening commute. pic.twitter.com/2bvJMWcCeL NWS Boston (@NWSBoston) September 18, 2023 The watch applies to parts of Hampden Middlesex, Essex, Norfolk, Plymouth, Bristol, Suffolk and Worcester counties. These areas are under either a limited or elevated risk for heavy rain, according to a hazardous weather outlook map. Periods of heavy rain throughout the day may lead to flooding of rivers, creeks, streams and other low-lying and flood-prone locations, forecasters said. Areas that got more than 7-10 inches of rain over several days last week are also more susceptible to flooding. The bulk of the heavy rain as well as the chance for flooding will come in the evening. Forecasters said residents should pay attention to later forecasts and keep an eye out for possible flood warnings. [Periods of Heavy Rain Monday ] Rain overspreads the region from southwest to northeast through daybreak Monday. Periods of rain will fall heavy at times on Monday...which may lead to localized flooding particularly across eastern MA & RI. pic.twitter.com/lzG37r2T2S NWS Boston (@NWSBoston) September 17, 2023 Severe thunderstorms in Massachusetts last Monday, Sept. 11, caused significant flooding across the state, dumping anywhere between 2 to 4 inches over the span of an hour in some parts of the state, according to the National Weather Service. Parts of Worcester and Middlesex counties were especially hit hard, including Leominster. The city declared a state of emergency as some residents were asked to evacuate because because significant flooding. North Attleborough also declared a state of emergency as more than 200 homes were flooded. The National Weather Service said Worcester could hit its yearly precipitation average with the rain on Monday. Boston is also within 5 inches of its annual average, the weather service said on X. The dry weather makes a comeback Tuesday and lasts through Friday, forecasters said. The 7th Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation (KOAFEC) Ministerial Conference opened in Koreas second-largest city, Busan, on Wednesday with a strong call for additional resources to help African countries achieve universal access to energy and transform the continent into the breadbasket of the world. The conference is taking place at a time when Africa is facing a plethora of challenges. Nearly 600 million people on the continent have no access to electricity. In addition, despite rapid growth across the continent, hunger is still pervasive in some countries, affecting some 283 million people. The Russia-Ukraine war has exacerbated this figure. So also has the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and climate change. This is why Korea and African nations, under the aegis of KOAFEC, have agreed to deepen their cooperation with much more emphasis on mutually beneficial investment. The African Development Bank Group and the Ministry of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Korea are co-hosting the three-day conference under the theme Embracing a Sustainable Future: Just Energy Transition and Agricultural Transformation in Africa. This embraces these two critical development priorities for Africa. Koreas Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, Kyungho Choo, underlined the crucial role that Korea and Africa must play. He highlighted Koreas strength in high-tech industry and innovative technology. He also pointed to the great many opportunities that Africa offered as the worlds future market and industrial base with a vibrant young population. Together, our two worlds can become the most solid rock of solidarity, he told the meeting, stressing the need for Africa and Korea to strengthen cooperation. In his opening remarks, African Development Bank Group President Akinwumi Adesina urged delegates to seize the conference as a critical opportunity to galvanise support for several objectives: achieving universal energy access in Africa, advancing a just energy transition and transforming the African continent into the breadbasket of the world. Doing so will require additional resources, Adesina said. He said the anticipated reallocation of the International Monetary Fund Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) to the African Development Bank was the key to attracting additional resources to develop Africa. The African Development Bank chief urged Korea to join other countries that have expressed strong interest in reallocating SDRs to the African Development Bank Group. This will be a game changer for Africas development, Adesina declared. Choo summarised Koreas priority areas for support to Africa as ABCagriculture, bio-health, and climate change, as well as energy transition. He said Korea also planned to significantly increase its official development assistance. Choo said that in cooperation with the African Development Bank, Korea supported energy projects for Africas sustainable development. We are also working to support Africas growth as outlined in the African Development Banks High 5s development priorities, Choo said. As a true partner, Korea will continue to support Africas development, he said. Adesina described the KOAFEC conference as a good opportunity to discuss progress on relations between Korea and Africa, development challenges and opportunities in Africa, and a chance for all parties to continue to work together to accelerate the growth and development of Africa. Africa must be a solution to feeding the world, as it has 65% of the uncultivated arable land left in the world, he told delegates, adding: What Africa does with agriculture will therefore determine the future of food in the world. Adesina commended the Korean government for its K-Rice Belt initiative, which will support eight African countries in producing 30 million tons of rice. The initiative aligns with the African Development Banks Feed Africa strategy and the outcome of Dakar 2 Food Summit early this year. The Bank is intent on Africa achieving food self-sufficiency within five years. The K-Rice belt project also has parallels with the African Development Banks flagship Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) programme. The TAAT Rice Compact continues to collaborate with the Korea-Africa Food and Agriculture Cooperation Initiative (KAFACI) through AfricaRice. TAAT supports KAFACIs network of 13 African countries through workshops, joint planning, and regular interaction. The African Development Bank has launched a $650 million rice programme to support 15 African countries in their quest to produce 53 million tons of rice by 2025. This presents an excellent opportunity for Korea to work together with the African Development Bank on a pan-African rice production initiative, the Bank president said. The African Development Bank is preparing a regional operation to finance the Regional Rice Resilient Value Chains Development (REWARD) programme in West Africa. Through this programme, the Bank will provide $650 million to the 15-member countries of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). REWARD targets double cropping and yields on 750,000 hectares of irrigated land. One million rice farmers will benefit, and 30% of these farmers are women. The initiative will push total paddy production to 10.5 million tons per year or 53 million tons by the end of the five-year programme in 2028. The African Development Bank is to work closely with K-Rice Belt on this programme. Korea has been a strong and consistent supporter of the African Development Bank Group. The country strongly supported the Banks general capital increase in 2019. Korea also pledged $105 million to the 16th replenishment of the African Development Fund; the highest amount ever pledged to the Fund. The Korea Trust Fund and the $600 million Korea-Africa Energy Investment Framework will support African countries in strengthening human capacity and developing their energy sectors. Adesina noted that for African countries to collectively meet the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, the continent required an investment of $2.3 trillion. He highlighted limited access to electricity as a significant hurdle, pointing out that this was a commodity still beyond the reach of nearly 600 million people. He said much progress had been made since the African Development Bank launched its New Deal on Energy for Africa in 2016. He explained that while the percentage of those with access to electricity had since increased from 35% to 56%, there was still much to do. To achieve universal access to electricity, we must add 90 million people annually by 2030. We must also add 130 million people annually to achieve universal access to clean cooking energy, Adesina said. He said Africa had enormous renewable energy potential, including 11 terawatts of solarthe highest in the worldof which only one percent was used. Adesina also said the African Development Bank invested heavily in renewable energy, with the share of renewable energy in its power generation portfolio now standing at 87%. The Bank president emphasised, however, that it would be impossible to provide universal access to electricity for Africa relying only on renewables because of their high intermittent and variability, which negatively affected reliability for industrial use. As we think of Just Energy Transition, Africa must not be denied the opportunity to use its natural gas, which it now has in abundance from new discoveries. Doing so will not add to climate crisis. Rather, it will reduce emissions in Africa, Adesina said. He told the audience that the African Development Bank was participating in the Just Energy Transition Partnerships in South Africa and Senegal ($2.5 billion) with the European Union, the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and France. He explained that the Bank would support the South African Just Energy Partnerships through a $1 billion guarantee facility from the United Kingdom, adding that the institution also supported efforts to develop more bankable projects through its New Partnership for Africas Development (NEPAD) Infrastructure Project Preparation Facility and Africa50. The African Development Bank chief concluded: Africas future is bright. And it will be brighter still with a strong partnership with South Korea. Let us accelerate Africas growth and development together. Let us succeed together. Dr. Hwang-yong Kim, Director General of Technology Cooperation Bureau, Korea Rural Developent Administration, indicated there was every reason for confidence that African countries could emulate Koreas successful development trajectory. He explained that in the 1960s, after the Korean War, the country was one of the poorest nations in the worldKorea even received assistance from some African countries, said earlier Dr Adesina. Kim noted that through its transformative agriculture, Korea has since become one of the largest economies in the world. The 7th KOAFEC Ministerial Conference brings together many important stakeholders in Africas development. This includes 33 African finance ministers and African Development Bank executive directors representing African member countries, African ambassadors, heads of pan-African institutions, and various non-governmental organisations, as well as African CEOs and Korean private sector leaders. A TOTAL of 11 properties will be acquired by Mayo County Council to address vacancy and dereliction in towns across Mayo. Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon said that Mayo County Council had initially identified 46 properties which were suitable for acquisition under the under the government's Urban Regeneration Development Fund (URDF) programme, with a total estimated acquisition cost of 7.1m. However, during the initial stages of the programme, it was indicated by the Department that focus should be on buildings located within town centre areas which will provide some element of residential use. Deputy Dillon said the Minister for Housing, Darragh OBrien, had indicated that his Department would consider any submission from Mayo County Council making a further case for the inclusion of any of the properties omitted by the Department. The URDF currently part-funds 132 regeneration and rejuvenation projects projects, comprising of almost 400 subprojects, across the country. "Mayo County Council are now being encouraged to proceed with tackling those properties approved for inclusion on their acquisition programme," said Deputy Dillon. "Under the URDF Call 3, specifically targeted at tackling vacancy and dereliction in cities and towns across the country, funding of 2m was allocated in Mayo. "I am urging the council to continue to identify suitable vacant and derelict buildings given that there are currently 284 sites on the Derelict Sites Register in the county while a dedicated officer has also been employed to address the issue of dereliction by engaging with owners of these buildings, issuing statutory notices and placing these sites on the register," he added. RENOWNED Westport based photographer Frank Dolan was one of eight members of the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) who were honoured for their lifelong membership of the union at a ceremony on Friday last. Hosted by the NUJ West of Ireland Branch, members from Galway and Mayo came together at the PorterShed in Galway City to honour colleagues who have remained committed to the union for 40 years or more. And in a congratulatory message to recipients, President Michael D Higgins paid tribute to their dedication to local journalism as guardians of our democracy at its grassroots. Among those honoured was Westport-based photographer, Frank Dolan, who has been a member of the NUJ since 1976. Frank's work has been a cornerstone of The Mayo News for over 50 years and editor of The Mayo News, Michael Duffy, said it was fitting for the NUJ to honour Frank. Frank Dolan's name is synonomous with both journalism and photography, not just in the west of Ireland, but all over the country. Frank has covered every big news story that has happened in Westport and Mayo for the last 50 years and he can still be seen out and about covering local functions, particularly for his beloved Westport Utd. Well done to all in the NUJ for honouring Frank. Other recipients included current and former staff members at the Connacht Tribune journalists Bernie Ni Fhlatharta, Francis Farragher, John McIntyre, and photographer Joe OShaughnessy. Tom Gilmore, known for his work in The Tuam Herald and on Galway Bay FM; Tuam Herald photographer Ray Ryan; and Mairtin Davy O Coisdealbha, formerly of Raidio na Gaeltachta, were also presented with Life Membership certificates. Bernie Ni Fhlatharta, who was a journalist with the Connacht Tribune for 34 years, and who was one of the early stars of Irish-language television on TnaG (later TG4) was presented with NUJ Gold Badge for extraordinary services to the union. Paying tribute to Ms Ni Fhlatharta, West of Ireland Branch Secretary Stephen Corrigan said she was, for many years, the face of the NUJ in the West of Ireland. Nobody deserves recognition more for their life-long commitment to the NUJ than Bernie Ni Fhlatharta. She has sacrificed countless hours for her union and her colleagues over the years, and so its only right that we celebrate her tonight with the Gold Badge Award for her exceptional contribution to the NUJ, he said. NUJ Irish Organiser, Ian McGuinness, said the award recipients were a credit to the union and through their long dedication to the NUJ, they had enabled the union to fight for members across the country. Paying your subs for forty years is an act of solidarity, he said. Branch Cathaoirleach Siobhan Holliman said it was a privilege for the West of Ireland Branch to celebrate its members of honour and praised their ongoing dedication to the NUJ. President Michael D Higgins extended his heartfelt congratulations to the NUJ West of Ireland Branch members receiving awards. In a message read out on his behalf at the ceremony, he described Life Membership of the NUJ as an acclaimed accolade recognising members dedicated service and commitment to local journalism. In particular, may I commend Bernie Ni Fhlatharta on receiving the National Union of Journalists Gold badge. Bernies years of extraordinary service to the union, and exceptional work for the Connacht Tribune have made a profound impact on the Irish Journalism landscape, said President Higgins. May I also extend my congratulations to Joe OShaughnessy, Francis Farragher, John McIntyre, Ray Ryan, Tom Gilmore, Frank Dolan and Mairtin Davy O Coisdealbha. Your decades of hard work and commitment in Galway, Mayo and beyond have played a vital role in shaping the provincial journalism scene, he continued. by Karlene Lukovitz @KLmarketdaily, September 18, 2023 Diane Jurgens has left The Walt Disney Company after three years as chief information officer. She was responsible for the company's global enterprise technology organization. Jurgens sent colleagues an exit email in late August saying that she was leaving Disney to pursue new adventures, according to the Wall Street Journal. On Aug. 31, Interim Disney CFO Kevin Lansberry informed the companys technology teams that Diane Arnold, senior vice president for core systems and platforms, would act as interim leader for enterprise technology while Disney conducts a search for a new CIO. Disney has lost several high-level executives over the past year. In June, Disney CFO Christine McCarthy left temporarily for a family medical absence leave, and Chief Diversity Officer Latondra Newton left to pursue other endeavors. Those posts remain unfilled. Kareem Daniel, who acted as right-hand to Chapek, left shortly after Chapeks ouster when Bob Iger returned as Disney CEO last November. Jurgens joined Disney in October 2020 under then-CEO Bob Chapek, and reported directly to McCarthy until McCarthys departure. by Steve McClellan @mp_mcclellan, September 18, 2023 In what the agency is calling a landmark deal, London-based Brainlabs has secured a major investment from Charlotte, NC-based private equity firm, Falfurrias Capital Partners (FCP). The amount of the investment was not disclosed, nor what percentage of the agency Falfurrias was acquiring in exchange for its investment. The agency said the investment would be used to support its global expansion plans it is launching hubs in additional markets across Europe, Asia Pacific and Latin America. advertisement advertisement In March Brainlabs appointed longtime Mediacom veteran Adam Potashnick as CEO, North America, with a mandate to expand the agencys growth across the US and Canada. Brainlabs was founded in 2012 by former Google executive Daniel Gilbert with ambitions of becoming the largest independent media agency in the industry. Stephen Allan, the former global CEO of GroupMs MediaCom is executive chair of Brainlabs. Brainlabs also announced two additional members to its board, including FCP Executive in Residence Alexander Jutkowitz (founder of PR and content company SJR) and Lisa Sherman, President and CEO - The Ad Council. Brainlabs sold a minority stake in the agency to London-based private equity firm Livingbridge in 2019. The agency says it has grown eightfold in revenue since then, with growth driven in part by the acquisition of eight agencies, including U.S. programmatic agency MediaNet and digital agency Hanapin Marketing. Brainlabs has an estimated valuation of $320 million, although the company declined to confirm the figure. Brainlabs U.S. clients include Consumer Cellular, American Express, Adidas and The Weather Company. Microsoft confirmed that Panos Panay, a 20-year veteran and executive vice president and chief product officer leading Windows and Surface products, will leave the company. Reportedly he's headed for Amazon. Panay joined Microsoft in 2004 as a group program manager on PC software. Under his leadership, the Microsoft team created the Surface brand. And he took an additional leadership role on the operating system Windows project in 2020. He then joined the senior leadership team in 2021. After 19 incredible years at Microsoft, Ive decided to turn the page and write the next chapter, he wrote on the social-media platform X in an informal announcement. Im forever grateful for my time at Microsoft and the amazing people I had the honor to make products with. advertisement advertisement Microsoft CEO and Chairman Satya Nadella thanked Panay in a statement sent to Media Daily News for his work and impact on the companys products, culture, company, and industry during the past two decades. Im grateful for your leadership, support, and all youve done for Microsoft and our customers and partners, Nadella wrote. As Rajesh stated, we remain steadfast and convicted in our strategy and Yusuf Mehdi will take lead on our Windows and Surface businesses and products externally. Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft corporate vice president of modern life, search, and devices, will take the responsibility of leading Windows and Surface businesses, according to an email from Rajesh Jha, vice president of experience and devices at Microsoft. Other changes also were announced in that email. Charles Simonyi, who led the development of Microsoft Word and Excel applications, rejoined the company in 2017 as technical fellow through an acquisition, and will join the management team for the Experiences and Devices group, which Jha runs today. The changes, including Panos departure, take effect today, just three days before Microsoft is expected to announce its next generation of Surface devices at a New York event. It's not clear how the departure of Panay and the changes in the divisions will influence search and advertising at Microsoft. Media Daily News reached out to Microsoft for information, and will update the article with additional findings. by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, September 18, 2023 Citing free speech principles, a federal judge on Monday granted a request by the tech association NetChoice to block California from enforcing a law that regulates how online companies display content to minors, as well as how companies collect data from those users. In a 45-page ruling, U.S. District Court Judge Beth Labson Freeman said California failed to show that the law's restrictions regarding content and privacy were justified by the state's interest in protecting children from harm. The California Age-Appropriate Design Code (AB 2273), passed last year, requires online companies likely to be accessed by users under 18 to prioritize their best interests and well-being. The law also prohibits those companies from collecting or sharing their personal information -- unless doing so is necessary to provide a specific service that the minor is actively using, or unless collecting or sharing the information is in minors' best interests. advertisement advertisement NetChoice challenged the law in court, arguing that the statute violates the First Amendment. Freeman sided with NetChoice, ruling that the organization has shown that the law's provisions likely do not pass constitutional muster. For instance, Freeman wrote, a provision that prohibits tech companies from drawing on minors' data for profiling and targeting doesn't appear to take into account beneficial aspects of targeted information. NetChoice has provided evidence indicating that profiling and subsequent targeted content can be beneficial to minors, particularly those in vulnerable populations, she wrote. For example, LGBTQ+ youth -- especially those in more hostile environments who turn to the internet for community and information -- may have a more difficult time finding resources regarding their personal health, gender identity, and sexual orientation. She added: Even aside from these more vulnerable groups, the internet may provide children -- like any other consumer -- with information that may lead to fulfilling new interests that the consumer may not have otherwise thought to search out. The New York Times Company backed NetChoice's request to block the law, writing in a friend-of-the-court brief that the law will unconstitutionally restrict news organizations' ability to distribute editorial material to minors, and will limit teens' ability to access content. Others, including the Electronic Privacy Information Center and youth advocacy group Fairplay, urged Freeman to uphold the statute. Fairplay wrote in its friend-of-the-court brief that social media companies' current design and recommendation systems harm children -- in part by allegedly encouraging them to spend more time on the platforms. California isn't the only state attempting to regulate how social platforms display content and ads to teens. Arkansas and Utah recently passed laws banning teens under 18 from having social media accounts without parental permission, while Texas passed legislation prohibiting platforms from serving users under 18 with harmful content. Late last month, a federal judge in Arkansas blocked enforcement of that state's law. MensXP, India's most credible destination for men's fashion, lifestyle, and culture, unveiled its digital cover for September. This special edition features the charismatic actor Ishaan Khatter in an exclusive collaboration with the iconic footwear brand Crocs. MensXP In a world where conformity often takes precedence, MensXP remains steadfast in its dedication to championing individuality and the unconventional. Ishaan, the cover star for this edition, exemplifies these values seamlessly. His approach to his craft and personal style serves as a testament to the power of authenticity. MensXP The collaboration with Ishaan and Crocs represents the convergence of fashion, comfort, and individualityan embodiment of the modern man's lifestyle. In this exclusive edition, the actor shares insights into the significance of staying true to oneself and embracing a unique life journey. MensXP The MensXP digital cover interview provides readers with a profound exploration of Ishaan's fashion choices, his journey as an actor, and his philosophy on lifestyle. It showcases the essence of Ishaan's free-spirited nature and his unwavering commitment to self-expressiona sentiment that MensXP continues to champion. MensXP Ishaan, renowned for his exceptional talent and distinctive style, perfectly embodies the spirit of this special edition, which is all about embracing individuality and confidently expressing oneself. Crocs, a brand known for its bold and innovative designs, aligns seamlessly with this vision by offering a comfortable and fashion-forward option for modern men. MensXP As a media brand committed to capturing the essence of modern masculinity and style, MensXP consistently delivers cutting-edge content, inspiring stories, and unique perspectives to its diverse and engaged audience. With the release of this special edition, MensXP continues its tradition of offering relevant and captivating content. MensXP Angad Bhatia, CEO of India Lifestyle Network (MensXP, iDiva and Hypp), expressed his excitement about the collaboration, stating, "We are thrilled to present this special edition in collaboration with Ishaan and Crocs footwear. Our goal is to empower our GenZ audiences with the knowledge and inspiration they need to make bold fashion choices that reflect their unique personalities. This edition does just that." The latest edition of MensXPs Digital Cover is now available here. Fashion enthusiasts, Bollywood aficionados and fans of Ishaan alike can immerse themselves in a world of style, comfort and confidence brought to life by this special collaboration. One of the biggest surprise hits of 2023 was Karan Johars classic romantic comedy Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani. Starring Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt in the lead roles, the movie follows the filmy love tale of a West Delhi Punjabi boy and an intellectual Bengali journalist. Like all cliches, this story was also apparently remotely inspired by a real life romance that the director had witnessed himself. In a recent interview, someone pointed out to KJO that Rocky and Ranis prem kahani looked similar to maybe Akshay and Twinkles story. The director was quick to respond and said, Maybe subconsciously (I got inspired). They have a tremendous friendship in their marriage. I've had dinners with them, meals with them, and hung out with them. And there's a terrific kind of comfort in their camaraderie. He finds her hilarious, she finds him hilarious, for different reasons. So I felt it wasn't impossible for people who come from two different demographics of society, two stratas, to actually find love. It's like we put ourselves in boxes. Like when we're finding a relationship, we put ourselves in places where we're comfortable. But tomorrow, you can fall in love with someone anywhere. Not many people know that when he made his debut film Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, he wrote Tinas character keeping his childhood best friend Twinkle (whose real name is Tina) in mind. Its after she rejected the role, it was eventually rewritten and Rani stepped in. As far as Twinkle and Akshays romance is concerned, the two actors fell in love around 1999 while shooting for International Khiladi. The Wiregrass United Way is making final plans for the 14th Annual Wiregrass United Way Campaign Kickoff Bus Tour. This years event is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 21, according to WUW Executive Director Walter Hill. Volunteers and staff with the local United Way will board a Bay Limousine bus and make stops in all six counties that they serve. The Caring Foundation of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama is the sponsor for this years Bus Tour. At each of the six bus stop events, the United Way will conduct a mini campaign kickoff. Trae Avant, WUW Board of Trustees chair, and Dean Mitchell, overall campaign chair, will be a part of the event and speak at each stop. In addition, there will be a number of area businesses recognized for already completing their United Way employee campaign, Hill said. Those recognized will be some of the top supporters based on dollar amount or increase over the previous year. Brianna Burrell, crowned Miss Alabama 2023 July, attended the WUW Pacesetter Kickoff in August and will be a special guest speaker at each of the bus tour stop. The Mobile native is a graduate of the University of South Alabama and will compete in the Miss America Pageant in January. The six bus stop events with the scheduled times are as follows: Henry County 9 a.m., Boys & Girls Club of Abbeville; Barbour County 10 a.m., Gazebo in downtown Eufaula; Dale County 11:30 a.m., Vivian B. Adams School, Ozark; Coffee County 1 p.m., Enterprise YMCA; Geneva County 2 p.m., Merle Wallace Purvis Center, Geneva; and, Houston County 3:30 p.m., Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce. The goal for this year is $2,828,280. If the organization reaches this goal, the Wiregrass Foundation will contribute an additional $400,000. Serving with Johnson and Dillard in leadership positions this year are the county chairs. They are: Barbour: Sallie Garrison, board chair and Jessica King, campaign chair; Coffee County: Angie Sullivan, board chair and Lee Milliner, campaign chair; Dale: John Cawley, board chair and Heather Cohen, campaign chair; Geneva: Ken Grimes, board chair and Jason Thrash, campaign chair; Henry: Cher Marvel, board chair and Sheriff Eric Blankenship, campaign chair; and, Houston: Vincent Vincent, board chair and Chris Etheredge, campaign chair. The Wiregrass United Way has served the Wiregrass area since 1938, currently funding 37 member agencies in Barbour, Coffee, Dale, Geneva, Henry and Houston counties. Funds raised by the Wiregrass United Way are utilized locally in the six county area. A committee of local volunteers determines how the funds are distributed among the member agencies. For more information call (334) 792-9661 or visit the website at www.wuw.org. An Enterprise native killed during a 2019 terrorist attack at the Pensacola Naval Air Station in Florida was honored by the Coffee County Commission at its Sept. 11 meeting. Benjamin Watson Jr. and Sheila Wilemon Watson accepted a proclamation and plaque from Coffee County Commission Chairman Dean Smith in honor their son, the late Navy Ensign Joshua Kaleb Watson, who died Dec. 6, 2019 when a Saudi gunman opened fire in the control center where Watson was serving as the officer on deck. A plaque in Watsons honor will be displayed inside the Coffee County Courthouse in Enterprise. Watson graduated Enterprise High School in 2014 as captain of the EHS Rifle Team and attended the United States Naval Academy. During his time at the academy, Watson became the captain of rifle team there as well. In May of 2019, he received his commission as an ensign in the United States Navy with a degree in mechanical engineering. Watson moved to NAS Pensacola in November 2019. He died on Dec. 6, 2019, at the age of 23 when he was shot while serving as Officer of the Deck of Building 633 on Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida. A terrorist began his attack by opening fire in the control center where Watson was on duty. Despite being shot six times, Watson somehow found the strength to make it out of the building, contact first responders and give them information regarding the shooter that saved hundreds of lives. Watson was one of three servicemen who died but played a role in preventing other deaths. The bases commanding officer said at the time of Watsons death, The sailors that lost their lives in the line of duty and showed exceptional heroism and bravery in the face of evil. When confronted, they didnt run from danger; they ran towards it and saved lives. If not for their actions this incident could have been far worse. Ensign Watson gave his life that day in defense of the United States and his actions thwarted a terrorist attack, said Coffee County Commission Chairman Dean Smith in presenting the plaque to Watsons parents. This plaque will be placed in the Coffee County Courthouse in memory of Ensign Joshua Kaleb Watson, in honor of his heroism, and in gratitude for his sacrifice. While Ensign Watsons body rests at the Alabama National Cemetery, his heart and his spirit will forever live in Coffee County, Smith added. DOHA, Qatar Five prisoners sought by the U.S. in a swap with Iran were freed Monday and headed home as part of a deal that saw nearly $6 billion in Iranian assets unfrozen. Despite the deal, tensions are almost certain to remain high between the U.S. and Iran, which are locked in various disputes, including over Tehrans nuclear program. Iran says the program is peaceful, but it now enriches uranium closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. The planned exchange has unfolded amid a major American military buildup in the Persian Gulf, with the possibility of U.S. troops boarding and guarding commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of all oil shipments pass. Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home, President Joe Biden said in a statement released as the plane carrying the group from Tehran landed in Doha, Qatar. After the plane slowed to a stop, three of the prisoners walked down the ramp and were greeted by the U.S. ambassador to Qatar, Timmy Davis. The former prisoners hugged the ambassador and others. The three Siamak Namazi, Emad Sharghi and Morad Tahbaz then wrapped their arms around their shoulders and walked off to a building in the airport. In a statement issued on his behalf, Namazi said: I would not be free today, if it wasnt for all of you who didnt allow the world to forget me. Thank you for being my voice when I could not speak for myself and for making sure I was heard when I mustered the strength to scream from behind the impenetrable walls of Evin Prison, Namazi said. In addition to the five freed Americans, two U.S. family members flew out of Tehran, according to a senior Biden administration official, who spoke on condition of anonymity when the exchange was ongoing. Earlier, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani said the exchange would take place Monday after nearly $6 billion in once-frozen Iranian assets reached Qatar. Fortunately Irans frozen assets in South Korea were released and God willing today the assets will start to be fully controlled by the government and the nation, Kanaani said. On the subject of the prisoner swap, it will happen today and five prisoners, citizens of the Islamic Republic, will be released from the prisons in the U.S., he added. Five imprisoned citizens who were in Iran will be given to the U.S. side. He said two of the Iranian prisoners will stay in the U.S. Meanwhile, Nour News, a website believed to be close to Irans security apparatus, said two of the Iranian prisoners had arrived in Doha for the swap. Mohammad Reza Farzin, Irans Central Bank chief, later came on state television to acknowledge the receipt of over 5.5 billion euros $5.9 billion in accounts in Qatar. Months ago, Iran had anticipated getting as much as $7 billion. The planned exchange comes ahead of the convening of world leaders at the U.N. General Assembly this week in New York, where Irans hard-line President Ebrahim Raisi will speak. The deal has already opened Biden to fresh criticism from Republicans and others who say the administration is helping boost the Iranian economy at a time when Iran poses a growing threat to American troops and Mideast allies. That could have implications in his reelection campaign as well. In his statement, Biden urged Americans not to travel to Iran, and he demanded more information on what happened to Bob Levinson, an American who went missing years ago. Biden also announced sanctions on former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and the Iranian Ministry of Intelligence. The prisoners freed Monday were: Namazi, who was detained in 2015 and was later sentenced to 10 years in prison on spying charges; Emad Sharghi, a venture capitalist sentenced to 10 years; and Morad Tahbaz, a British-American conservationist of Iranian descent who was arrested in 2018 and also received a 10-year sentence. All of their charges have been widely criticized by their families, activists and the U.S. government. U.S. officials have declined to identify the two other released prisoners. In a statement, Sharghis sister, Neda, said she cant wait to hug my brother and never let him go. This is my brother, not an abstract policy," she added. "We are talking about human lives. There is nothing partisan about saving the lives of innocent Americans and today should be a moment of American unity as we welcome them home. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken thanked the Qataris, Swiss, South Koreans and Omanis for helping in the exchange, and pledged in a statement to keep pressing for accountability for Iran and other regimes for the cruel practice of wrongful detention. The five prisoners Iran has said it seeks are mostly held over allegedly trying to export banned material to Iran, such as dual use electronics that can be used by a military. The two that Nour News said were in Doha were: Mehrdad Ansari, an Iranian sentenced to 63 months in prison in 2021 for obtaining equipment that could be used in missiles, electronic warfare, nuclear weapons and other military gear, and Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani, an Iranian charged in 2021 over allegedly unlawfully exporting laboratory equipment to Iran. The cash represents money South Korea owed Iran but had not yet paid for oil purchased before the U.S. imposed sanctions on such transactions in 2019. The U.S. maintains that, once in Qatar, the money will be held in restricted accounts to be used only for humanitarian goods, such as medicine and food. Those transactions are currently allowed under American sanctions targeting the Islamic Republic over its advancing nuclear program. Iranian government officials have largely concurred with that explanation, though some hard-liners have insisted, without providing evidence, that there would be no restrictions on how Tehran spends the money. Iran and the U.S. have a history of prisoner swaps dating back to the 1979 U.S. Embassy takeover and hostage crisis following the Islamic Revolution. Their most recent major exchange happened in 2016, when Iran came to a deal with world powers to restrict its nuclear program in return for easing sanctions. The West accuses Iran of using foreign prisoners including those with dual nationality as bargaining chips, an allegation Tehran rejects. Negotiations over a major prisoner swap faltered after then-President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew America from the nuclear deal in 2018. From the following year on, a series of attacks and ship seizures attributed to Iran have raised tensions. Meanwhile, Irans nuclear program now enriches closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. While the head of the United Nations nuclear watchdog has warned that Iran now has enough enriched uranium to produce several bombs, months more would likely be needed to build a weapon and potentially miniaturize it to put it on a missile if Iran decided to pursue one. Iran maintains its nuclear program is peaceful, and the U.S. intelligence community has kept its assessment that Iran is not pursuing an atomic bomb. Iran has taken steps in recent months to settle some issues with the International Atomic Energy Agency. But the advances in its program have led to fears of a wider regional conflagration as Israel, itself a nuclear power, has said it would not allow Tehran to develop the bomb. Israel bombed both Iraq and Syria to stop their nuclear programs, giving the threat more weight. It also is suspected in carrying out a series of killings targeting Irans nuclear scientists. Iran also supplies Russia with the bomb-carrying drones Moscow uses to target sites in Ukraine in its war on Kyiv, which remains another major dispute between Tehran and Washington. ___ Gambrell reported from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Lee from Washington. Associated Press writers Nasser Karimi and Amir Vahdat in Tehran, Iran, and Ellen Knickmeyer in Washington contributed. The Army is dramatically scaling back a two-year-old policy that allowed noncommissioned officers to be promoted before they attended an academy required for their next rank, according to a policy memo recently issued to the force. In January, active-duty enlisted soldiers and their full-time counterparts in the Army Reserve will no longer be able to be promoted before attending schools such as the Advanced Leader Course, or ALC, required for promotion from sergeant to staff sergeant. The return to the status quo goes into effect for the Army National Guard and part-time reserve enlisted soldiers beginning in October 2024. Those courses were required to be completed before promotions until late 2021, when issues including a capacity problem at the academies, aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic, made it difficult to get troops through the education pipeline. Soldiers who were given promotions prior to the required schooling had a year to complete their education or be reduced to their previous rank. Read Next: Service Was a Second Chance for the Space Force's Enlisted Leader. He Tried to Give Others the Same Shot. But the service isn't outright terminating temporary promotions and is leaving a lot of latitude for commanders to promote their NCOs ahead of attending school. NCOs may still get an early promotion if the rank for their job in the Army falls below an "acceptable level," according to the policy memo outlining the exceptions. For example, if there are limited infantry staff sergeants, commanders may promote sergeants into those roles before they attend ALC. Soldiers may also be promoted before attending school if they are serving in a combat zone for at least eight months or are pregnant or postpartum. Some senior commanders and NCOs took issue with the 2021 policy at first, concerned that temporary promotions discounted the legitimacy of NCO academies. Those courses teach enlisted leaders Army doctrine and how to manage soldiers in their respective fields. Michael Grinston, who was the sergeant major of the Army at the time, said he wished the service didn't have to extend the policy into this year, but it simply wasn't able to clear the backlog of students, and senior leaders did not want to hold back careers of otherwise qualified NCOs. In 2015, the service implemented the Select-Train-Educate-Promote, or STEP, policy requiring attendance at those schools, which has been part of a larger effort in recent years to formalize NCO training on Army doctrine and encourage professional development. NCOs are also increasingly expected to have college degrees as they advance in rank. "Initial implementation of STEP was suspended due to temporary conditions, but those have passed; therefore, we move forward, ensuring our soldiers have the training and resources they need to succeed as leaders in our Army," Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Weimer said in a statement. Weimer, who took the reins as the service's new top enlisted leader in August, told reporters then that NCO development is among his top priorities, but he has yet to articulate specifics on what that means in practice. Meanwhile, the Army is also eyeing extending the length of the Basic Leader Course, or BLC, by several days. The course is required for promotion from specialist to sergeant. Army planners are working on adding more field training to the 22-day school, as combat training has been slowly phased out in recent years to accommodate more classroom instruction on Army policy. Last year, the Army had a pilot program reintroducing land navigation to the course. Half of the 914 soldiers in that pilot across different BLC schoolhouses failed. -- Steve Beynon can be reached at Steve.Beynon@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @StevenBeynon. Related: Army Boosting Promotion Points for Expert Badges and Cutting Those for Fitness Test Performance A Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II jet that was lost over South Carolina after the pilot ejected Sunday was still missing Monday, and search efforts were ongoing. The aircraft and the ejection seat were still nowhere to be found. The F-35 was based at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort at the state's southern tip. Joint Base Charleston, the joint Air Force and Navy installation in South Carolina, said it was working with the Federal Aviation Administration and the air station to locate the roughly $80 million fifth-generation fighter aircraft. Jeremy Huggins, a spokesman at Joint Base Charleston, told local and national news outlets that the jet was left in autopilot mode when the pilot ejected, and some believed it could have remained airborne for some time, he reportedly said. He also told the Post and Courier newspaper in Charleston that the transponder was not working properly and confirmed the aircraft was not carrying live missiles. Read Next: Army Noncommissioned Officers May No Longer Get Promoted Before Required Schooling Under New Policy The top uniformed officer of the Marine Corps, Gen. Eric Smith, on Monday ordered aviation units to "conduct a two-day pause in operations this week to discuss aviation safety matters and best practices," according to Maj. Jim Stenger, a service spokesperson. The order came after the F-35 incident and two other aviation mishaps over the last several weeks. During the safety stand-down, commanders will discuss the fundamentals of flight operations, ground safety, maintenance and flight procedures to better prepare pilots and crews, according to the statement. "The search-and-recovery efforts for the aircraft are ongoing, and we are thankful to the agencies assisting in this effort," a spokesperson for the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the unit that owned the jet, told Military.com on Monday morning. "The mishap is currently under investigation." The search was focused around the Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion areas, which are north of Charleston, roughly 50 miles off the Atlantic coast. As of Monday afternoon, the Marine Corps had recruited the help of the Navy; Civil Air Patrol, a volunteer civilian Air Force auxiliary service; and law enforcement across the state, according to a statement released on social media. None had yet found the aircraft as of publication. A Beech UC-12M Huron and Civil Air Patrol Cessna were flying in what appeared to be search sorties over the cities of Marion, Allentown and Lake City, east of the two lakes, on Monday afternoon, according to Flightradar24. Meanwhile, it appeared that the pilot, who ejected from the F-35, landed in the Charleston area. A police report obtained by Military.com from the North Charleston Police Department in South Carolina detailed that officers were called to assist around 1:46 p.m. local time to check on a pilot who landed in the backyard of a residence in North Charleston, a city close to the air base. A person whose phone number was connected to the address declined to answer questions about the incident when reached by the news outlet. The report said security forces from Joint Base Charleston were on scene to take "custody of the pilot's parachute and all other military equipment" but also noted that the "search for the pilot's aircraft and cockpit seat are still ongoing." Jeremiah Gertler, a senior associate with the Center for Strategic and International Studies think tank in Washington, D.C., who specializes in aviation, told Military.com in an interview Monday that the ejection seat likely caused some damage to the F-35, too, further complicating the problem. "The emissions from the rocket motor boosting the ejection seat out couldn't have been good for any electronics in the cockpit," Gertler pointed out. The Joint Program Office for the F-35 confirmed it was assisting in the investigation but did not say whether the incident raised concerns about F-35 safety. "There is nothing more important than the health and wellness of the pilot involved," Russell Goemaere, a spokesman for F-35 Joint Program Office, said in a statement. "Our team will work with the USMC, industry and all other stakeholders to assist in the investigation efforts." Last year, an F-35 crashed during a vertical landing in Texas, forcing an ejection. Nearly two weeks later, the F-35 Joint Program Office ordered groundings and inspections for certain models of the aircraft. A statement from Joint Base Charleston on Sunday evening said, "If you have any information that may help our recovery teams locate the F-35, please call the Base Defense Operations Center at 843-963-3600." That request sparked memes, jokes and plenty of jabs on social media, including from lawmakers in D.C. U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, a Republican who represents the district around where the jet went missing, quickly blasted the military online. "How in the hell do you lose an F-35?" Mace said on X, formerly known as Twitter. "How is there not a tracking device and we're asking the public to, what, find a jet and turn it in?" Mace received no additional details from the Marine Corps in a private briefing Monday afternoon and told Military.com that the lack of information deeply angered her. "When there is an ongoing situation which threatens public safety, the Pentagon has an obligation to keep citizens and their representatives informed," Mace told Military.com. "When an $80 million jet goes missing and they have no answers, it's unacceptable." This is the third Marine Corps aviation mishap in three weeks. The missing F-35 jet belonged to Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 of Marine Aircraft Group 31, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. The group, known as MAG-31, is based out of Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort in South Carolina, which was also home to the F/A-18D Hornet that crashed in Southern California last month, killing its pilot. In late August, a V-22 Osprey crashed during a routine multinational training event in Australia, killing both pilots and its crew chief. Twenty other Marines survived the initial crash, some with severe injuries. Charleston International Airport, which shares runways with Joint Base Charleston, did not report any air service disruptions due to the ongoing search for the F-35, a spokesperson told Military.com. The Federal Aviation Administration also confirmed there were no statewide issues due to the recovery efforts. Editor's note: This story was updated with a statement from the Marine Corps on an ordered safety stand-down for aviation units. -- Thomas Novelly can be reached at thomas.novelly@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @TomNovelly. -- Drew F. Lawrence can be reached at drew.lawrence@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @df_lawrence. Related: Military Grounds Some F-35s Following Crash in Texas More than 4,600 military family members and civilians have filed legal claims against the U.S. over illnesses they say were caused by consuming and bathing in water tainted with jet fuel at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii, according to their attorneys. The number of claimants over fuel spills at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Facility in 2021 has nearly tripled in the past three months, a reflection that those affected by the spills believe the Navy is serious about making amends, said attorney Kristina Baehr of the Austin, Texas, firm Just Well Law. Baehr said that the government has accepted responsibility for the accident and is not contesting that it was negligent in the November 2021 spill of roughly 5,000 gallons of jet fuel that contaminated a portion of the drinking water supply to the base and nearby facilities. Read Next: Army Noncommissioned Officers May No Longer Get Promoted Before Required Schooling Under New Policy "I don't want to give the government too much credit," Baehr said Monday during an interview with Military.com. "But the government is not contesting that it's liable. That's historic. We are not aware of any case of this magnitude and certainly not an environmental case, where the government has accepted liability." The leak affected roughly 93,000 residents of the installation, sending thousands to hotels and elsewhere or forcing residents to use only bottled water in their homes. Shortly after the spill, residents complained of headaches, stomach upset, neurological problems, rashes, skin lesions and other symptoms. Nearly two years later, some say they still experience seizures, thyroid issues, migraines and more, according to a lawsuit filed against the government. The 4,673 claims, filed under the Federal Tort Claims Act, represent the first step in potential litigation against the federal government over the leak. Military families and civilians who believe they were harmed by the spill have until Nov. 20, the event's two-year anniversary, to file a claim. The Federal Tort Claims Act allows civilians, including military family members, who are hurt or injured as the result of government action or negligence to file an administrative claim within two years of an event. If the claim is denied, they may proceed with a lawsuit. In the case of the Red Hill spill, the claimants would become part of a suit filed last August by Patrick Feindt, the husband of Army Maj. Mandy Feindt, who is seeking compensation for physical ailments he and his family continue to experience as a result of the exposure, as well as for emotional distress and financial hardship endured when his family requested reassignment from Hawaii. This week, as part of the Feindt case, the U.S. District Court of Hawaii will hold a hearing considering the federal government's request to strike witness testimony from medical experts in the case. Following several accidents at the Red Hill facility, including a spill in May 2021 of 20,000 gallons of jet fuel that precipitated the November spill, the Defense Department is shuttering the fuel depot at a cost of roughly $120 million. The Defense Department notified Congress last week that the facility's closure will not affect training or operations in the Indo-Pacific region and that the effort to dismantle Red Hill would proceed. The Navy has scheduled defueling to begin Oct. 16, with completion expected by January. During a press conference Sept. 12, Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon's spokesman, said the notification, done to comply with the fiscal 2023 National Defense Authorization Act, underscores the department's commitment to closing the fuel farm. "This achievement reflects the department's ongoing commitment to defuel and ultimately close the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility while upholding our responsibility to ensure the readiness of our armed forces," Ryder said. Baehr said that, while the Navy has accepted liability for the spill, it has not yet moved forward with adjudicating any of the claims already filed under the federal tort law. According to Baehr, 67% of her clients have ongoing health issues related to the tainted water. "The government has accepted liability and admitted to negligence, but it has never accepted ... that there has been long-term medical harm," Baehr said. -- Patricia Kime can be reached at Patricia.Kime@Military.com. Related: Fire Watch Episode 2: Disaster at Red Hill The opinions expressed in this op-ed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Military.com. If you would like to submit your own commentary, please send your article to opinions@military.com for consideration. As we stare down the prospect of another government shutdown due to House Republican time-wasting, House Republicans continue to argue that their party is the party for veterans. Their actions say otherwise. Last month, House Republicans jammed through an embarrassing military construction/Veterans Affairs appropriations bill. My Democratic colleagues and I fought for veterans' funding after House Republicans called for 22% cuts to all spending in April. President Joe Biden held the line and reached an agreement with Speaker Kevin McCarthy to fund the VA. Before the ink was even dry, Republicans began to renege on this agreement. Programs like SNAP (previously known as food stamps) and Medicaid that veterans rely on still face steep cuts as Republicans break the deal they struck. Even worse, they added draconian provisions to the spending bill meant to dictate how veterans live their lives. This reneging is yet another unserious offer after many insincere offers by my colleagues across the aisle. They wasted valuable time this summer with poison pill amendments in an effort to appease the most extreme members of their party. They left town after passing only one appropriations bill, significantly increasing the possibility of a government shutdown. Their direct actions will knowingly hurt veterans more than any of their proposals. Democrats, on the other hand, will always put veterans first and stand up for what is right, even if that means voting against an unserious bill. We stand up for all veterans. The House Republican proposal continues their marginalization of groups who have never felt welcome at the VA and who often forgo benefits and care they have earned because of this marginalization. Under my leadership last Congress, the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs passed, and President Biden signed into law, the Honoring Our PACT Act. This is the largest expansion of veterans' benefits in a generation. The Honoring Our PACT Act presumes a connection between service and exposure to toxic substances, including burn pits, providing the opportunity for health benefits. It recognizes the rare cancers and other diseases veterans have been facing. This builds on our work with the Blue Water Navy Act that for the first time ever made a connection between Vietnam-era veterans' service and their potential exposure to Agent Orange and other herbicides. These legislative efforts would not have been possible without Democratic leadership that puts veterans first. Democrats continue to be committed to helping veterans, not just speaking in platitudes. One Democratic member has been championing legislation to allow disabled veterans to receive care in their own homes, where they want to be. Another has advocated for a bill to ensure veterans who have been scammed by bad-actor schools don't lose their education benefits. Even in the last few months, we have been pushing our colleagues in the majority to expand pandemic-era homelessness benefits for veterans, eliminate harmful forced arbitration for members of the Reserve and National Guard, ensure vulnerable veterans can remain on SNAP, and take concrete steps to prevent veteran suicide. This is how House Democrats are delivering for veterans. We will continue these efforts in the face of opposition from our Republican colleagues. Now, my fellow members of Congress must work with the Senate to put together a real spending bill that helps veterans and staves off a government shutdown. House Democrats will be part of that effort. Will our colleagues on the other side of the aisle join us? -- Congressman Mark Takano represents California's 39th District and is the ranking member of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. From 2019 to 2023, he served as chairman of the committee. The opinions expressed in this op-ed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Military.com. If you would like to submit your own commentary, please send your article to opinions@military.com for consideration. Recent proposals encouraging initiatives to increase NATO membership for Eastern European nations are antagonistic, ill-timed and of questionable strategic value to the U.S. Specifically, any Ukrainian Road to NATO in the foreseeable future is, at a minimum, dangerous. It appears a few resurfacing Neocons are back and quietly lining up behind a new crew of presidential candidates and whispering in their ears, with the likely "salute" of an Army-dominated Defense Department. Think of Chris Christie stating he supports NATO membership for Ukraine, and Nikki Haley's recent comments advocating adding Ukraine to NATO now. Those bizarre statements should give one a chill. However, it's a good bet that an inflated Army and the defense industry are likely getting very excited. A NATO admission of Ukraine will almost certainly suck us into another European war -- the one that our post-1947 Army has trained, equipped and maybe hoped for. Current events and political winds illustrate just why Article I; Section 8; Clauses 12 & 13 of our Constitution were so prescient, and the writers so prophetic. Clauses 12 & 13 carefully provided for solid national defense while preventing the existence of, and funding for, a large standing Army. However, the framers did provide for Congress to "raise an Army" when required, envisioning the Department of the Navy keeping enemies and hostilities off our shores and thereby buying the necessary time for diplomatic or economic options/solutions before Congress was fully prepared to employ a battle-ready Army. That time could potentially allow for non-warfare solutions. Was/is that ridiculous or naive thinking? Admittedly, the world was much larger in the late 1700s, and rapidly striking another continent was inconceivable in the early 1800s. However, the concept of defense in depth is still in our strategy and is still relevant. Could a strong Navy and Marine Corps, Air Force/Space Force, and Air Defense Artillery accomplish those same 1788 goals and objectives in the 21st century? The Cold War gave general, albeit questionable justification for maintaining a big standing Army. Furthermore, it also gave that big, new Army and the defense industry incentive to pursue efforts to override the spirit and intent of Article I; Section 8; Clause 12. Through those unintended consequences, we've created the current bloated, competitive and improperly balanced military. In Vietnam, because of a "status quo" strategy, the best we could do was to contain open hostilities (warfare) to the rural areas. That sounds a bit like Afghanistan operations, where we ultimately witnessed an eerily similar finale. Unlike in Iraq, at least our diplomats were allowed to participate in the attempted societal shift in Afghanistan where there were some successes, especially in building a functional police force and civil law system before we hastily and dismally departed from that theater. But have we actually won a war since 1947, or allowed the Department of the Navy to function as the State Department's "Big Stick" to facilitate diplomatic solutions before mobilizing and employing an Army? We undisputedly beat Iraq militarily led by the Army. But the Army combat arms hierarchy demanded, finagled and bullied its way to dominate the supposed policing, stabilization, rebuilding and political reformation in post-hostilities planning and operations -- a clearly defined State Department mission. Marine Corps leaders certainly played a key role in Iraq and Afghanistan, but it was the Army that dictated strategy. Diplomatically and logistically challenged "careerist" Army generals blocked or eroded any progress by our diplomats, eventually losing the war they had won. A combat arms approach to civilian crime and complete eradication of the Iraqi military was a big factor in turning the bulk of the Iraqi population against us. All the while, an Army-centric Defense Department created the elusive self-licking ice cream cone that kept the Army big, bloated, engaged and overfunded whilst conducting operations where it clearly wasn't experienced -- or even willing to consider adjusting or targeting necessary leadership changes for civil operations aside from counterinsurgency. What message was received in Iraqi neighborhoods when an infantry division was replaced by an armored division shortly after the day President George W. Bush announced the end of combat operations? Would a seasoned diplomat with experience in the region have better understood the implications and made the same decision? Instead of empowering diplomatic and law enforcement professionals to do what they do best, the wrong people were put in charge in post-hostility operations. Combat arms generals were inserted to rule the roost, instead of the critically needed logisticians, military police and JAG general and flag officers to work with professional diplomats planning, executing and overseeing a reconstruction mission. The combat arms leadership running most of the country appears to have had little experience, education or training in law, logistics or police functions. Do you need infantry generals to reestablish and reconstruct a civil society? The correct military specialists might well have been able to pull off our national goals and objectives supporting diplomats, and not just further "big Army" objectives. Intentionally or unintentionally, reconstruction efforts in Iraq were sabotaged by misplaced priorities, thereby losing opportunities for post-hostility successes. Is the same table being set for Ukraine? Now, there appear to be backroom efforts to bring an already unstable, hostile and somewhat corrupt Ukraine into NATO. Will NATO be enticed to fight, or be obligated to provide personnel to secure and/or reconstruct the devastated country if the Ukrainians are eventually successful in pushing out the invaders? It looks like there is prodding to get the U.S. military into harm's way yet again by welcoming Ukraine into a "sticky and binding" treaty. But with Ukraine, add in the baggage of a historically corrupt, agrarian and unstable country that lies right on Russia's border. That just doesn't sound like a good idea -- unless you're still coveting that big but elusive European land battle, want to maintain a large standing Army, or are significant players in the defense industry. -- Anthony (Tony) Mitchell is a retired military officer with a 34-year career retiring as a captain in the U.S. Navy. Between at-sea assignments, he was assigned as the federal executive fellow at the American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research, where he published numerous policy and energy op-eds and articles, and was later detailed to the Department of State, where he served as the first military adviser to the then newly established Office of Iraqi Affairs. What goes up must come down, sure. But after the pilot of a Marine Corps F-35B fighter jet was forced to eject from their aircraft over South Carolina this past weekend, the U.S. military was left to wonder: When? And most importantly, where? According to officials from Joint Base Charleston, the unfortunate pilot (thankfully) did come down safely. But while normally there would be a clear indicator of when and where the aircraft came down to Earth, officials have yet to find a crash site. The pilot put the F-35B on autopilot before ejecting, but because the F-35B's transponder wasn't working, the U.S. military can't apparently track it. These factors have led many aviation observers to wonder if one of the world's stealthiest planes is still flying as a "zombie" aircraft, silently patrolling the skies above the continental United States before it loses fuel and crashes. And while it might seem hard to believe, this wouldn't be the first time zombie aircraft kept going without a human element. The Cornfield Bomber After its retirement in 1986, the "Cornfield Bomber" was transferred to the National Museum of the United States Air Force. (U.S. Air Force) By most accounts, the F-106 Delta Dart was a pretty great plane. It was fast and maneuverable and would serve the Air Force for 30 years between 1958 and 1988. It was the aircraft 1st Lt. Gary Foust was flying during a training exercise out of Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, on Feb. 2, 1970, when he went into a flat spin. A flat spin is incredibly difficult (and nearly impossible) for any pilot to recover from, so Lt. Foust was forced to eject from his F-106. He even pulled the plane's drag chute. It turned out that ejecting from the plane was exactly what was required for the plane to recover. When he bailed out at 15,000 feet, he watched as the plane descended into a farmer's field, (relatively) gently landing on its belly. The still-running jet engine even pushed the plane's fuselage across the field for another hour-and-a-half before running out of fuel. Once recovered, the F-106 was nicknamed the "The Cornfield Bomber" and returned to service. Foust even flew it again in 1979. The 1989 Belgian MiG Crash The tail of a Soviet MiG-23 combat plane rises from the rubble after it crashed into a house in Bellegem, Belgium, near the French border, July 4, 1989. (Carl Duyck/AP Photo) This was another training mission gone awry, but it comes from the Soviet Union, and like most things coming from the USSR, it doesn't have a happy ending. Soviet Air Force Col. Nikolai Skuridin was supposed to fly a MiG-23 during a routine training exercise on July 4, 1989. While taking off from a base in Poland, the MiG's afterburner failed and the plane lost power. Only 150 meters from the ground and falling fast, Col. Skuridin wisely ejected from the plane. But the plane didn't hit the ground. It was on autopilot and headed west. Flying across East Germany into West Germany, the Soviet plane was intercepted by American F-15s with orders to shoot it down over the North Sea. Unfortunately, the MiG never made it to the sea. Running out of fuel with no pilot to correct its course, it gradually crashed into a house in Bellegem, Belgium, killing a teenage student asleep at the time. If history is any indicator, the missing Marine Corps F-35B, if it is, in fact, still flying in the skies above the United States, has two paths: either land harmlessly in a cornfield or crash into an occupied structure. Here's hoping for the former. -- Blake Stilwell can be reached at blake.stilwell@military.com. He can also be found on Facebook, Twitter, or on LinkedIn. Want to Learn More About Military Life? Whether you're thinking of joining the military, looking for post-military careers or keeping up with military life and benefits, Military.com has you covered. Subscribe to Military.com to have military news, updates and resources delivered directly to your inbox. A Geneva County man was arrested over the weekend and charged with several sex crimes, according to police. Robert Lee Whitsette Jr., 40, of Slocomb, is charged with four counts of first-degree rape and other sex crimes. He is currently in the Houston County Jail with no bond. According to Dothan Police, on Friday, Aug. 4, an investigation into a report of sex crimes against a juvenile was launched. Officials said at the conclusion of it, Whitsette was taken into custody. Due to the sensitive nature of the case, no further information will be released. In August 1944, Operation Overlord was in full swing. The Allies were fighting to break out across France, but standing in their way was the old fortress town of Saint-Malo. The town's 12,000 Nazi defenders had been dug in since 1943 as part of the Atlantic Wall, expecting to hold out for 90 days or more. An American force of 20,000 soldiers from the 83rd Infantry Division, with at least 2,000 French Resistance fighters, would lay siege to the city for nearly a month. By Aug. 13, the Germans were still holding out in the ancient citadel that overlooked the bay. That was the day Lee Miller, a young war photographer covering the war for the magazine British Vogue, arrived in Saint-Malo. Miller, then 37 years old, had begun her photography career on the other side of the lens as a model but had been something of an expert in photography her entire life. The American-born Miller found herself in Europe pursuing that career when World War II broke out. Instead of fleeing, she stayed in Britain, picked up a camera and began a new phase of her photographic legacy: combat. Now, Kate Winslet ("Titanic") stars as Lee Miller in "Lee," a new film that depicts Miller's shift from artistic fashion photographer to combat photographer. This flashback-driven biopic follows Miller as she lands in Normandy to advance across Europe with the Allied forces for the destruction of the Nazi Reich. (U.S. Army) Lee Miller grew up around cameras in Poughkeepsie, New York. Her father was an amateur but loved the art form, and he would use her as a model as he taught her everything about photography. After a brief acting stint in Paris, she moved to Manhattan, where she was literally discovered by accident. Miller was nearly hit by a car in 1927, but the man who pulled her to safety was Conde Nast, publisher of Vogue Magazine; later that month, she appeared on the cover of the magazine. For the next two years, Miller was one of the most in-demand models in New York City. But modeling didn't fulfill her, so she picked up her camera and spent the next decade taking photos in New York, Paris and Cairo. When war broke out in Europe in 1939, Miller was living in London and became an accredited photographer so she could cover The Blitz for Vogue. When the United States entered the war, she worked to get accreditation from the U.S. Army, too. She spent much of the war documenting the lives of nurses in England, but in July 1944, the Army began allowing female journalists to follow troops as the Allies pushed into greater France, if they had the backing of a major news outlet. Since Lee Miller was a photographer for British Vogue, the magazine made a case to send her to France to report on the work of nurses near the front lines. Miller arrived in Normandy less than a month after the D-Day invasions of June 6, 1944, documenting evacuation hospitals on Omaha Beach. She slowly moved closer to the front lines. In August, the Allies were breaking out into neighboring Brittany, and Miller was sent to document the recently secured town of Saint-Malo. But Saint-Malo was anything but secure, and Miller was the only photographer present to document the final days of the battle. She was able to get to the most forward observation posts as the two sides exchanged fire, followed some of the American GIs as they made the climb to the citadel, and even documented the first use of napalm in combat (though her photos were confiscated by the Army). Frontline soldiers were amazed to find a female photographer among them, as were the Germans who surrendered at Saint-Malo. Even more amazed was the U.S. Army, who "exiled her to Rennes" after finding out Miller had been in a combat zone. Her exile didn't last long, however; she would rejoin advancing elements of the Army as it liberated Paris and advanced on Alsace. Miller also documented the liberation of the Buchenwald and Dachau Concentration Camps. Her most famous photograph was one where she was actually the subject. On April 30, 1945, the same day Adolf Hitler died by suicide, Miller and fellow photographer David E. Scherman entered the Munich apartment where Hitler once lived, intentionally dirtying the bathroom with her combat boots. Scherman photographed Miller bathing in Hitler's tub. After the war, she returned to Britain, where she continued her photography career. This phase of her life was marked by alcoholism and post-traumatic stress disorder. Her images, as legendary as they were, haunted her. She died of cancer in 1977. "Lee" debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival this year and also stars Alexander Skarsgard ("Generation Kill"), Marion Cotillard ("The Dark Knight Rises") and Andy Samberg ("Brooklyn Nine-Nine") as David E. Scherman. -- Blake Stilwell can be reached at blake.stilwell@military.com. He can also be found on Facebook, Twitter, or on LinkedIn. Keep Up With the Best in Military Entertainment Whether you're looking for news and entertainment, thinking of joining the military or keeping up with military life and benefits, Military.com has you covered. Subscribe to the Military.com newsletter to have military news, updates and resources delivered straight to your inbox. How to use the mindat.org media viewer Click/touch this help panel to close it. Welcome to the mindat.org media viewer. Here is a quick guide to some of the options available to you. Different controls are available depending on the type of media being shown (photo, video, animation, 3d image) Controls - all media types Zoom in and out of media using your mousewheel or with a two-finger 'resize' action on a touch device. Use the mouse or your finger to drag the image or the view area of the image around the screen. < and > at the left and right hand side of the screen move forwards and backwards for the other images associated with the media you selected. Usually this is used for previous/next photo in a gallery, in an article or in search results. Keyboard shortcuts: use shift + the left and right arrow keys. < and > in the bottom center are used for switching between the photos of the same specimen. Keyboard shortcuts: use the left and right arrow keys. > in the bottom center, raises the information box giving details and further options for the media, < at the top of this box then hides it. Keyboard shortcuts: use the up and down arrow keys. ? opens this help window. Keyboard shortcuts: use the H key or the ? key. Other keyboard shortcuts: 1 Fit image to screen 2 Fill screen with image 5 Display at full resolution < Make background darker > Make background lighter space Hide/dim titles and buttons Scalebar If the field of view (FOV) is specified for the photo, the scalebar appears in the left bottom corner of the viewer. The scalebar is draggable and resizeable. Drag the right edge to resize it. Double click will reset the scalebar to it's default size and position. If the scalebar is in default position, double click will make it circular. Controls - Video Video files have a standard set of video controls: - Reset to start, - Skip back, - Play, - Pause, - Skip forwards. Keyboard shortcuts: You can stop/start video play with the P key. Controls - Animation (Spin Rotation) Animation (usually 360 degree spin rotations) have their own controls: - enable spin mode. Note that while images are loading this option will not be available but will be automatically activated when the animation has loaded. Once active you can spin the image/change the animation by moving your mouse or finger on the image left/right or by pressing the [ or ] keys. The button switches to move mode so that you can use your mouse/fingers to move the image around the screen as with other media types. The button, or the P key will start playing the animation directly, you can interrupt this by using the mouse or finger on the image to regain manual movement control. Controls - 3D Stereoscopic images If a stereoscopic 3D image is opened in the viewer, the 3D button appears in the bottom right corner giving access to "3D settings" menu. The 3D images can be viewed in several ways: - without any special equipment using cross-eyed or parallel-eyed method - with stereoscope - with anaglyph glasses. - on a suitable 3D TV or monitor (passive 3D system) For details about 3D refer to: Mindat manuals: Mindat Media Viewer: 3D To enable/disable 3D stereo display of a compatible stereo pair image press the 3 key. If the left/right images are reversed on your display (this often happens in full-screen mode) press the 4 key to reverse them. Controls - photo comparison mode If a photo with activated comparison mode is opened in the viewer, the button appears in the bottom right corner giving access to "Comparison mode settings" menu. Several layouts are supported: slider and side by-side comparison with up to 6 photos shown synchronously on the screen. On each of the compared photos a view selector is placed, e.g.: Longwave UV . It shows the name of currently selected view and allows to select a view for each placeholder. Summary of all keyboard shortcuts State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. 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Ladder 4 is not only a wine bar, but it serves a full menu of food with items like chicken liver parfait, scallops, leeks, eggplant, rainbow trout, fried chicken and steak. Desserts include cheesecake and lemon posset. Chef John Yelinek doesnt traffic in the sort of predictable small-plates-meant-for-sharing menu weve come to expect of a wine bar, Bon Appetit wrote. The food isnt just delicious, its exciting and even a little cheeky. While all the plates are wonderful, the sweet potatoes cloaked in soft cheese and pumpkin seed dukkah, for instance, or the juicy, lavish pork chop schnitzel, more technical dishes like that sausage, along with the stellar setting, add up to a truly memorable meal. Ladder 4 also has a bottle shop. Its open Wednesdays through Thursdays from 5 p.m. - 10 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m. - 11 p.m. and Sundays from 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. The other closest restaurant to Michigan which made Bon Appetits list is Indienne Chicago, an Indian fine dining restaurant. MORE FROM MLIVE: Dax Shepard dines at Michigan restaurant for the best salad and breadsticks on the planet See the tallest skyscrapers in the world made from LEGO all in one place in Michigan Michigan forest being transformed immersive Halloween haunt with CarnEvil theme These 4 legendary bands are about to perform one last concert in Michigan Tina Fey probably did not have rescuing a shark on her beach vacation itinerary, but thats exactly what happened when the Texas resident and others were swimming in the Gulf on Thursday. Fey shot video of the mako shark that washed ashore Thursday on Pensacola Beach as swimmers aided the struggling fish. Soo this just happened!!! Pensacola Beach. Contact [wildlife] rescue and life guards, and was told theres nothing they could do for him. So sad!! Fey wrote on social media along with a video of the shark that went viral. Fey said she and her husband, Josh, were vacationing in Gulf Breeze to celebrate their one-year wedding anniversary. The Hallettsville, Texas, couple went swimming Thursday on Pensacola Beach when the shark happened to beach itself right in front of us. Babe, look at them freakin teeth, Tina Fey can be heard telling her husband in the video. We took action to get him back in the water since the wildlife people and lifeguards told us there was not they could do!! So we did our best to try to save him!! she posted on social media. The shark was clearly sick or injured, Fey wrote. She told AL.com that there were no indications that the shark died as of Friday afternoon. As Josh Fey and other beachgoers flocked to the beached mako, the shark began flapping, causing the group to scuttle away. They returned to tug on the sharks tailfin to help get the mako back in the water. The shark is then seen swimming away. LUDINGTON, MI A maritime museum on the shore of Lake Michigan takes visitors on a journey around the Great Lakes, exploring shipwrecks, piloting a car ferry, testing their strength against a manpowered steamship wheel and hearing stories from long-passed ship captains. The Port of Ludington Maritime Museum in Ludington offers three levels of interactive and informative exhibits for all ages set in a former U.S. Coast Guard station built in 1934. The current USCG Ludington Station is next door. You dont often find a museum of this caliber in this small of a community, said Rebecca Berringer, executive director of the Mason County Historical Society. Opened in 2017, this is the third-largest maritime museum on the Great Lakes, she said. Up to 12,000 people visit each summer with about 60% coming from outside Michigan. Arya Lofton, 1, interacts with the PM 22: Piloting the Carferry simulator at the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum, on Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023, at 217 S. Lakeshore Drive in Ludington, Mich.Justine Lofton | jlofton@mlive.com One of the main attractions is on the second floor: a simulator that allows participants to try their hand at piloting a historic car ferry. Head back in time to the pilothouse of the Pere Marquette 22 in the 1930s in this exciting, interactive experience like no other, the museum website says. RELATED: Northern Michigan childrens museum is added attraction for this Lake Michigan beach town Veteran Capt. Wallace Van Dyke is looking for a wheelsman, and you might be the person for the job if you can successfully pilot the 360-foot car ferry into Ludington harbor, out of the harbor or across Lake Michigan in a deep fog. Choose your adventure. The captain will direct you during the voyage and let you know how you did at the end. A lighthouse exhibit on the first floor of the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum at 217 S. Lakeshore Drive in Ludington, Mich., includes maps and models of Great Lakes lighthouses, Lake Michigan lighthouses and lighthouses on the coasts of the United States.Justine Lofton | jlofton@mlive.com The first floor features exhibits on lighthouses, car ferries, steamers and a theater. This was the former boathouse of the 1934 Coast Guard station. The lighthouse exhibits include a large model of the Ludington North Breakwater Light kids can go inside and climb a ladder to its second level. There are also hundreds of small lighthouse models, representing real beacons all over the Great Lakes and United States coastlines. The Armistice Day Storm exhibit on the second floor of the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum, 217 S. Lakeshore Drive in Ludington, Mich., provides a timeline of the days events, information about the ships that sank and changes to weather alerts that came afterward.Justine Lofton | jlofton@mlive.com On the second floor, in addition to piloting the PM 22, find an immersive exhibit on the deadly Armistice Day Storm of 1940. The freak weather event caused three ships to sink on Lake Michigan from Pentwater to Ludington, resulting in the deaths of 64 sailors. This floor was the office and mess deck of the 1934 station. RELATED: Remembering the deadly Armistice Day Storm of 1940, which sank 3 freighters in Lake Michigan A mural of the Lumbering Days on Pere Marquette Lake is displayed on the third floor of the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum, on Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023, at 217 S. Lakeshore Drive in Ludington, Mich.Justine Lofton | jlofton@mlive.com The third floor is home to exhibits on Great Lakes shipwrecks, the lumber industry on Pere Marquette Lake, the history of the Coast Guard station. A small room is dedicated to the S.S. Badger, a historic car ferry that continues to operate on Lake Michigan. This floor housed the crews quarters when it was a USCG station. A gift shop is located near the entrance. Here, you can find stuffed animals, books for children and adults, maritime-themed decor, museum merchandise and more. The museum, 217 S. Lakeshore Drive in Ludington, is open seasonally from May to October. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday; the last day of operation this year is Saturday, Oct. 21. Admission is $15 for adults, $13 for seniors, $11 for children 4 to 13 years old and free for children 3 and younger. RELATED: 100 years of history encapsulated in Up North outdoor museum The maritime museum is a property of the Mason County Historical Society, which also operates Historic White Pine Village, Mason County Research Center and Mason County Emporium and Sweet Shop, among other properties and projects. MADISON HEIGHTS, MI A Michigan man has been charged with two felonies after allegedly dragging a person with his vehicle and then fleeing the scene, resulting in the victims death, authorities said. Raiyan Chowdhury, 32, of Warren, is charged with leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death, a felony punishable by up to five years imprisonment and/or up to a $5,000 fine; and tampering with evidence, a felony punishable by four years imprisonment and/or a fine up to $5,000, according to a news release from the Oakland County Prosecutors Office. The law is very clear it doesnt matter who is at fault in a crash, if you are involved, you are required to report it right away, Prosecutor Karen D. McDonald said in a statement. Running someone over and then driving away is a felony, and we will hold this defendant accountable. The crash happened around 10 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 13, on Dequindre Road in Madison Heights, the release said. The defendant was driving southbound when he allegedly struck the victim, dragging him for a brief period. Chowdhury allegedly fled the scene, the release said. He was later arrested by Madison Heights Police with assistance from the Warren Police Department. The defendant was arraigned on Saturday, Sept. 16, in the 43rd District Court. Bond was set at $10,000/10%; Chowdhury posted bond and was released. Did you know that over 2 in 5 (44%) of Australians experience a mental disorder at some point in their lives? And in fact, 1 in 5 in the past 12 months? With many people suffering from depression, anxiety, and other disorders, the conversation of mental health within the workplace is something that business owners must address. Companies that promote self-care and cultivate a culture that creates a sense of well-being for employees have healthier, happier employees, which results in greater expansion and success for the business. What can you do as a business owner to cultivate a culture of self-care for yourself and your employees? Here are three tips to empower and equip your employees to have a strong sense of well-being. You do not need to provide all the answers. A common point of view regarding leadership is that leaders are meant to have all the answers. The problem with this approach is that it does not allow you to include your staffs take on things. Your staff members have a different perspective which can be of great value to improve how the business is run. When you let go of the need to deliver answers, you can start asking your staff questions and make room to express what they know. Talking at your employees, demanding them to have the same points of view as you, consistently reminding them of your expectations, insisting that they do things the way you have decided they should be done, disempowers, stifles creativity, and has an overall demoralising effect. Conversely, when you ask questions and are an empathetic listener, not only do you cultivate a culture of self-care, you also discover talents, abilities, information and awareness that each of your employees have. And when you incorporate this into your business, everything expands and grows. If asking questions is new to you, if being an empathetic listener is not something you have practiced, here are a few questions to get you started. How are things going for you? What are you noticing in the workplace? What is your perspective on things? What do you see that we could be doing differently? What else can we implement? Are there things you are good at or desire to learn more about that you would like to explore here? Ask, listen with empathy, and include your employees unique perspective, awareness, and abilities wherever possible. Prepare your employees to deal with difficult situations Whether it be business or personal life, difficult situations can come our way. One of the greatest gifts you can give to your staff is to empower them to be resilient in the face of adversity. Resilience is not about putting up walls and barriers in an attempt to be strong. When you have the position of defense, you have already decided that what you need to defend against is stronger than you. True resilience starts by acknowledging that you actually arealready strong. Look at the times and events in your life when things occurred that were challenging and yet you navigated through. Acknowledge the times where you mastered things that were difficult. Focus on these successes and you begin to trust that you are strong, you begin to trust you. The next step is to begin to receive more; more information, more awareness, more acknowledgement of how strong you truly are. All of this keeps you going, increasing your confidence that no matter what comes your way, youve got this. When you know this for yourself and you empower your staff to know this about themselves too, the entity of your business becomes unstoppable. Get your happy on Happiness, not performance, is the highest predictor of success. Stress is the number one impact on reducing your happiness and therefore the number one impact on your success. What creates happiness? Choice. It really is that simple. Happiness is a choice, and when you as the leader of your business value happiness, your choice becomes an inspiration, and you invite your employees to do the same. What different work climate would you create with that? How much more success can you have? What can you change in your business and how you create with your employees that would invite the joy and play factor? Can your conversations be targeted more towards exploring with your employees, rather than having come to conclusions right away? Forcing answers limits new perspectives. Exploring allows us to see new perspectives and ways of doing things. What if business and creation was done for the fun of it, not for the necessity? Your point of view creates your reality. If you create business for the joy of it, how much more successful would you be? To increase your happiness quotient, daily ask this question, What can I choose today that invites more happiness? This is an adventure, an ongoing journey, and the question is about gaining clarity and discovering what is true for you. As you discover what makes you happy, choose those things. Keep adding more of what brings you joy. Your happiness will increase and infuse that joy into the work environment, thus increasing success. Businesses that cultivate a culture that promotes mental health and well-being are businesses that thrive. They create an environment of nurture, empowerment, joy, and resilience. They encourage the expression of each individuals unique capacities. These elements allow everyone to work together in a way that is beneficial to all; where everyone and the business become simultaneously greater. Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. WARREN, MI A Michigan woman allegedly assualted multiple police officers during a tantrum that occurred after she was arrested. According to the Michigan State Police, the ordeal occurred after the 24-year-old from Clinton Township was stopped for suspected impaired driving on eastbound I-696 near Mound Road in Warren at 2:40 a.m. on Monday. Police say she was taken into custody without incident but became angry at the MSP post and threw a department owned phone to the ground, breaking it. The woman continued to resist by refusing to walk and becoming dead weight, police said. She was placed in a patrol car and driven to the Oakland County Jail where she allegedly kicked a deputy in the face. She also is accused of biting two deputies while she was being booked into the jail. This weekend we saw suspects attempting to injure troopers during arrests, said F/Lt Mike Shaw. I am proud of the troopers who used their training and experience to continue to de-escalate these incidents and keep the public and themselves safe. The woman was not identified by name. The troopers and deputies involved were not seriously injured. READ MORE: 4 injured after SUV crashes into Michigan State Police car during traffic stop Suspected drunken driver dies after crashing into wall while exiting I-94 Michigan woman found guilty of embezzling $20K from adults she was appointed to protect DEXTER, MI Its been more than a year since Hilltop View Apartments, an affordable housing complex run by a pair of nonprofits aiming to house vulnerable residents with built-in supportive services, opened in Dexter. Now, one city leader says the apartments, run through a collaboration between developer and property manager Avalon Housing and social services organization Faith In Action, account for a disproportionate number of police and fire calls. The 24-unit development has generated 11% of the calls from the Dexter Area Fire Department this year though August and 14% of Washtenaw County Sheriffs Office calls through July, a clear outlier, Council Member Jamie Griffin said in a statement. These data plainly illustrate that Avalon and Faith in Action are failing in their promise and obligation to support their residents and that is coming at a tremendous cost to those who live at Hilltop and the rest of the community, she said. But that claim, alongside Griffins suggestion that one response could come in the form of a chronic nuisance ordinance targeting properties with elevated crime and quality of life issues, has fellow city leaders questioning whether the discussion paints Dexter as unwelcoming. Feedback from Hilltop tenants indicates at least one family is looking for a home elsewhere because they dont feel welcome or comfortable in Dexter, said Council Member Joe Semifero as city leaders discussed the topic on Monday, Sept. 11. That is perhaps the most tragic indictment of our community I have heard and it makes me very sad. The proposal for this ordinance pushes us further down that path as an unwelcoming community. Perhaps we should ask why it is there isnt a statistically significant number of households of color that live or move here and stay in Dexter, he said. The council voted Sept. 11 to suspend any inquiry or consideration of chronic nuisance law, unless a majority of the council votes to consider it in the future. A formal proposal was never on the table. But, in a memo to her colleagues outlining the calls to first responders, Griffin wrote the approach had been taken in Madison, Wisconsin. It allows the city there to declare a property a chronic public nuisance if there are three enforcement actions within a 90-day period, according to the memo. Griffin said at the Sept. 11 meeting she didnt intend for a decision on the matter but was looking for a conversation after hearing legitimate concerns from residents over issues including trespassing and theft near Hilltop View. A resident addressed council in mid-August, saying he had been assaulted on his bicycle near Hilltop View, she said. Avalon has concerns about any nuisance ordinance, one of the organizations board members, Ryan Henyard, a Dexter resident, told city council. Increasing the chances of criminalizing this property via an ordinance like this is not a trauma-informed response, and it does not support these members of our community. Residents of Hilltop View are residents of Dexter, he said at the meeting. The complexs tenants faced stigma and negative perceptions in Dexter even before the property opened, and Avalon is concerned a nuisance ordinance could violate peoples right to have a home, regardless of race or economic status, he said. Avalon and Faith in Action are taking steps in response to concern over police and fire calls, said Semifero, describing a meeting he and Mayor Shawn Keough had with the organizations leadership. Theyve hired two new counselors to be on site 40 hours per week each and are working closely with the Sheriffs Office, he said. Residents include medically fragile individuals who require greater interaction with first responders, Semifero said. Avalon has begun eviction proceedings in cases where they are merited, but the process is a long one, he said. Theres usually an adjustment period at Avalon properties after they open with families coming from experiences of trauma, Semifero said. In a statement to MLive/The Ann Arbor News, Avalon Executive Director Aubrey Patino confirmed the actions. Avalon is committed to the wellbeing of Hilltop View tenants. This includes providing adequate care and support to residents and in turn reducing the use of emergency services, she said. As a responsible property owner, Avalon will continue to have active, open communication with the city of Dexter as needed. We hope that all citizens, including those at Hilltop View, can feel a sense of belonging in Dexter and are able to just live their lives, Patino said. Other Dexter leaders said Avalon and Faith in Action were responding appropriately, warning the possibility of a nuisance ordinance could represent a danger to residents. Nobody said this would be perfect. Our city is not crime free 100%, but at least we are giving a chance to people and we are saying we are a community that wants to be a caring community, a helping community, Council Member Sanam Aldag said during the Monday meeting. Still others said they had voted for the project when it was first considered but also recognized Dexter needed to take steps to protect public health and safety. It breaks my heart that there have been these challenges and these hardships, and I imagine fewer people would support that kind of thing today than before and to me thats a sign of failure, Michels said. Still, a potential nuisance law could be adapted to the specifics of Dexter community, he said, pointing to police calls for service data showing Hilltop View had a similar number as Dexters old village, an area of some 1,500 people. Michels joined Griffin in opposing the motion to shelve consideration of the matter, which passed 5-2. Griffin, who previously spearheaded criticism of the sale of city land for the Hilltop View project and raised other concerns before it was built and she was elected to city council, said a council majority seemed to be marching in lockstep as it works to increasingly regulate or otherwise silence speech it doesnt like. She pledged to continue to monitor calls for service data, saying she supported holding Avalon and Faith in Action publicly accountable until the figures show positive and meaningful change for all members of our community. The organizations have not responded to her inquiries, she said. Why is that? Avalon stands ready to engage in conversations with elected officials in any area where our properties are located, Patino said, provided those conversations advance the wellbeing and rights of all citizens in the community, regardless of their race or economic status. Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter. More from The Ann Arbor News: Woman recognized for saving drowning man at Ann Arbor park Gravel mine hit with state violations 1 day after yanking permit application Ann Arbor vacates never-built street to pave way for University of Michigan expansion Mouse droppings, flies on food: Eastern Michigan Dining dinged in 13 health inspections ANN ARBOR, MI -- A man charged with robbing an Ann Arbor bank has pleaded no contest. Virgil James Ross, 49, pleaded no contest before Judge Arianne Slay in Washtenaw County Trial Court on Thursday, Sept. 14, to a charge of bank robbery. Ross is charged with attempting rob Chase Bank, 100 S. Main St., shortly before 11 a.m. on Thursday, May 11. No weapon was seen and there were no injuries, Ann Arbor police previously said. Ross was arrested a short time later and arraigned in the 15th District Court on Friday, May 12, on charges of bank robbery. He waived his preliminary examination and was bound over to circuit court on Thursday, Sept. 7. Ross will be sentenced eight to 20 years in the Michigan Department of Corrections, according to a deal with the prosecutors office, said Jim Gallagher, Slays judicial attorney. When the robbery was initially reported, police said a man handed a note to a teller before fleeing on foot with an undisclosed amount of money. Read more: Defense attorney argues man charged with robbing Ann Arbor bank was misidentified Prosecutors have argued Ross was found with a little more than $2,600, including 16 $100 bills matching the denominations taken from the bank and was wearing similar clothing to the suspect description. Ross also had clear, rubber gloves, a mask and a notebook with notes referencing money and dye packs, according to the prosecuting attorney. Ross has also been charged in a separate case with third-degree home invasion. He pleaded no contest to that charge on the same day, according to court records. Ross is set to be sentenced on Thursday, Oct. 12 before Slay. He is currently being held in Washtenaw County Jail without bond. Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter. Read more from The Ann Arbor News: Saline emergency dispatch may merge with county system Man pulls gun on driver in Ann Arbor road rage incident Owners of Carrigan Cafe in Saline are back, no longer selling the business SALINE, MI -- Carrigan Cafe in Saline is off the market. Owners Karen and Jason Carrigan have decided they are here to stay. The Carrigans announced their plans to sell the business at 101 S. Ann Arbor St. back in May. The couple opened the coffee shop in September 2014 in the citys former My Favorite Cafe space. Read more: Owners of Carrigan Cafe selling Saline business after 9 years The decision to sell came a few years after the couples move to Georgia in December 2020. Karen spent time traveling back and forth from the two states and had decided she wanted to fully commit to Georgia. However, Jason recently received a new job in Michigan which made the couple decide to move back to the state. Karen said she is now focused on the cafe and possibly updating her business plan with new menu items and even longer hours. Karen is excited to be back and to celebrate the coffee shops official nine-year anniversary on Sept. 26. She added that she wants to thank the customers who continue to come through the cafes doors to support her business. Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS: Olgas Kitchen is bringing fan-favorite foods to the Big House Chelsea State Bank temporarily suspending services at downtown location Chocolate from Ann Arbor-area business earns international awards MILAN, MI - From picking up visitors at the train station in Ann Arbor to making it to work during a downpour, Milan leaders recognize they solve all sorts of problems by jumping behind the wheel of a car. For a week in early October, theyll have to find an alternative. A handful of city council members, business leaders and other Milan residents are giving up driving from Oct. 2-8 as part of a national initiative meant to draw attention to the challenges of navigating communities for those who dont drive. We really felt like that was an important thing to explore in our community, especially because smaller rural communities are even more challenged than larger municipalities for people who arent able to drive, said city Community Engagement Director Jill Tewsley. Theres no public transit. There arent sidewalks that connect everything. The National Week Without Driving, an initiative originated by the Disability Mobility Initiative in Washington state and going national this year through a partnership with nonprofit advocacy group America Walks, isnt about avoiding cars altogether. Participants can get around however they want without driving themselves, and that might mean hitching a ride, according to Milan officials. But its also intended to draw attention to barriers from the lack of bike lanes to dangerous crossings for pedestrians that are a daily challenge for non-drivers. Their needs are often disregarded in transportation infrastructure and policies, the nonprofits behind the challenge say. My first initial reaction was this is going to be really hard, said Milan City Council Member Mary Kerkes, who plans to participate. A photographer in the midst of her busiest season, Kerkes is asking clients to pick her up on the way to shoots. Shes found them more than willing when she explains the challenge, she said. I think its incredibly beneficial as a city official for me to figure out where the hard parts are, where its hard for somebody to navigate through our city on foot, or on bike or in a wheelchair. If its difficult for me to navigate an area, then its going to be equally if not more difficult for somebody who is disabled, Kerkes said. The challenge comes to the city by way of Tewsleys 21-year-old daughter, who because of a health condition does not drive and presented the opportunity to officials, Tewsley said. Tewsley, participating herself, is plotting how to get groceries, make it to work during bad weather and ensure visitors coming into Ann Arbor can make it to Milan, she said. That all may be a challenge in the city straddling the Washtenaw and Monroe county line some 10 miles south of Ann Arbor, where even accessing ridesharing apps like Uber can be difficult, Tewsley said. Failing is part of the point of the challenge, said Council Member David Baldwin, who also plans to participate. As a website and software developer, he works at home, but will still have to adjust other parts of his routine, he said. Baldwin is hoping the exercise will lead to an understanding of the struggle points for non-drivers and ways city officials can improve them. Events like those held downtown at Tolan Square have already driven foot traffic and sparked a discussion about better serving pedestrians, he said. Read more: From vacant lots to thriving shops, downtown Milan is booming City leaders hope the conversation will continue after the challenge. The city plans to host a public forum with participants at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 10 at The Center, 45 Neckel Court, to share experiences and lessons learned. Officials are already working to formalize a plan to tackle improving and expanding sidewalks in the city, according to Milan leaders. This will really give us a kickstart in the right direction, Baldwin said. For some participants, the realities of the workday wont allow complete participation. Council Member Josh Kofflin said he commutes to Northville for work but is committing to biking and walking around Milan as part of the challenge. For David Snyder, a local developer now running for city council, participating will involve doing a lot of what he does already, taking advantage of Milans walkability from where he lives. But the challenge is also about putting himself in the shoes of others, he said. I know there are a lot of folks in our community who either though age too young, too old or through other some other thing dont have a car, dont have a drivers license, and I need to understand better how it is that they go about living their lives, Snyder said. Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter. More from The Ann Arbor News: Man pulls gun on driver in Ann Arbor road rage incident Train collisions prompt officials to consider fencing off railroad throughout Ann Arbor 15 ejections from Michigan Stadium in Wolverine win over Bowling Green Priced out of the city limits a first-time homebuyers experience in Ann Arbor ANN ARBOR, MI - The Michigan Department of Transportation is giving Ann Arborites another in-person opportunity to weigh in on a set of safety improvements planned for the railroad carrying Amtraks Wolverine line, including a proposal to fence off sections along the Huron River that has generated protests from residents. A public meeting on the project, meant to prevent trespassing on the rail line, is scheduled for 5 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 3, at Washtenaw Community Colleges Morris Lawrence Building, 4800 East Huron River Drive. MDOT officials have said theyre trying to prevent trains from striking pedestrians trespassing on railroad property, saying there have been near misses or collisions throughout Ann Arbor, where the line runs along the Huron River and by several nature areas. Changes could include fencing, special pavement markings, signs, anti-trespass panels and other improvements, according to MDOT. Among the proposed changes is the installation of six- to eight-foot-tall fencing along the tracks near West Huron River Drive. More than 1,700 people have signed an online petition opposing the plan, on the grounds it limits recreation access to the river, disrupts wildlife habitat, blocks bike and walking trails and detracts from the natural beauty of the area, among other complaints. Read more: Ann Arborites protest MDOT plan to fence off large stretch of riverfront In Ann Arbor, maps released by MDOT show plans for fencing from the Foster Bridge, located west of Barton Pond, to Barton Dam and continuing to Bandemer Park. A second area of proposed railroad fencing would run between Plymouth Road and Gallup Park. Officials are sticking with the plan for safety reasons, and nothing has changed regarding the location of the fences, MDOT spokesperson Michael Frezell said in a Monday, Sept. 18 email. The transportation agency, which owns the tracks used by Amtrak trains traveling between Detroit and Chicago, is taking a broad look at safety along the line. It has reported nine trains that have collided with people and 27 near misses since 2020 between Kalamazoo and Dearborn, according to previous reports. While none of the incidents have been in the West Huron River Drive area thats the focus of the resident petition, MDOT maintains it is still risky right now and trespassing to reach the riverfront is illegal, with signs posted. A pedestrian path leading across the railroad tracks that cut between West Huron River Drive and the Huron River in the Ann Arbor area on Aug. 3, 2023. (Ryan Stanton | MLive.com)Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News After an Amtrak train struck two people on railroad tracks in Ann Arbor in June 2020, local officials called for safer ways to traverse the tracks along the Huron River and major city parks. Read more: After train crash, Ann Arbor weighs need for pedestrian underpass By law, MDOT is not permitted to create any new at-grade crossings, meaning at ground level, and creating new underpasses or overpasses is not part of the safety project, officials said. Ann Arbor city officials are separately working with Washtenaw County parks planners on a new pedestrian tunnel pathway under the railroad between Bandemer and Barton parks, part of the county Border-to-Border Trail. That safety concerns have driven multiple public meetings to gather resident input in safety hotspots along the line, including in Kalamazoo, Albion, Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti and Dearborn. In addition to the Oct. 3 public meeting, residents can give comment via an online form and by email to Magen Cole with MDOTs Rail Office at ColeM@michigan.gov. Construction is planned for 2024, MDOT officials said. Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter. More from The Ann Arbor News: 15 ejections from Michigan Stadium in Wolverine win over Bowling Green Elevated police, fire calls at Dexter affordable housing complex stir debate Priced out of the city limits a first-time homebuyers experience in Ann Arbor These Michigan universities are the best in the country, U.S. News ranking says FLINT, MI A Detroit man was charged last week with organized retail fraud for his role in an alleged theft and resale ring that targeted Sams Club stories across mid-Michigan. Kevin Tansil, 64, was arraigned Friday, Sept. 15, by Genesee County District Court Judge Vikki Bayeh Haley on five counts of organized retail fraud. Not guilty pleas were entered on Tansils behalf. He does not yet have an attorney. Authorities began looking into Tansil and his alleged criminal activity in April, according to a Michigan Attorney Generals office news release. Michigan State Police and Sams Club investigators began investigating a group seen entering Sams Club locations and conducting push-out thefts, whereby carts are loaded with merchandise and simply walked out the front door without making any purchase, the AGs office said. Tansil is alleged to have conducted such thefts in Auburn Hills, Grand Blanc, Lansing and Ypsilanti, the news release states. The group would target bottled liquor, electronics and sea food. The state alleges the group stole more than $80,000 in products with the intent of selling the items. Tansil is being held on a $1,000 cash/surety bond. He is scheduled to appear in court again on Thursday, Sept. 28. Want more Flint-area news? Bookmark the local Flint news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Flint daily newsletter. More from the The Flint Journal: Murder charge issued against assault suspect after victim from Flint dies 2 dead after shooting outside Flint liquor store Police ID man shot, killed outside Flint apartment complex LAPEER COUNTY, MI -- Eastbound I-69 traffic in Lapeer County is back where it belongs. The Michigan Department of Transportation said on Monday, Sept. 18, that eastbound interstate drivers were shifted back to newly rebuilt lanes of I-69 during the weekend, bringing the $54.5-million project closer to completion. Finishing work on the expressway, ramp reopenings and the reconstruction of a rest are expected to be completed during the next two months. Last year, the state rebuilt the westbound lanes of I-69 in the same seven-mile stretch -- from M-24 to Lake George Road -- before shifting to traffic to complete the same work on the eastbound side of the interstate this year. MDOT said crews are expected to work on reopening the eastbound ramp from I-69 to Lake Pleasant Road and southbound M-24 to eastbound I-69 this week. Other ramps that have been closed during construction -- northbound M-24 to eastbound I-69, eastbound I-69 to Wilder Road, and Wilder Road to eastbound I-69 -- are expected to reopen by the end of September. In addition to the Lapeer County I-69 project, MDOT completed another large-scale construction job on I-69 in Genesee County this year, spending $100 million to rebuild the interstate and several bridge structures from Fenton Road to Dort Highway. Want more Flint-area news? Bookmark the local Flint news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Flint daily newsletter. Read more at The Flint Journal: Michigan UAW member accused of sending threatening text messages to UAW President Shawn Fain Genesee County plan says $66.9M in building repairs needed, calls for closing satellite district courts Recall petitions signatures under review for Flint City Council vice president SHIAWASSEE COUNTY, MI -- A supplier to the Big Three automakers has told the state that it will lay off nearly 300 employees at factories in Lapeer and Shiawassee counties as a result of the United Auto Workers strike. UAW workers at the Ford Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Stellantis Toledo Assembly Complex in Ohio and General Motors Wentzville Assembly Center in Missouri walked off the job in a targeted strike as their contracts expired on Friday, Sept. 15. One day earlier -- on the day UAW President Shawn Fain announced the potential walkouts -- CIE Newcor told the state through a WARN notice that it was planning the layoffs at company plants in Owosso, Corunna and Clifford, Michigan. The Newcor notice says the 293 layoffs are expected to be temporary -- expected to last one month -- and said a temporary closing of those facilities is possible but will be determined by the length of the strike. More UAW Coverage Among the workers facing layoff because of the action are 151 machine operators and more than 100 employees with job classifications ranging from drivers to janitors to tool crib attendants. Newcor describes itself as a tier-one and tier-two supplier that has worked with each of the Detroit automakers. Its products range from pistons, crankshafts and brackets to electric vehicle battery boxes and motor housings. In addition to suppliers, GM announced late last week that the strike at its Wentzville Assembly plant would likely idle 2,000 employees at its Fairfax Assembly plant in Kansas due to a shortage of stampings supplied by Wentzville. We have said repeatedly that nobody wins in a strike, and that effects go well beyond our employees on the plant floor and negatively impact our customers, suppliers and the communities where we do business, GM said in a statement. What happened to our Fairfax team members is a clear and immediate demonstration of that fact. Ford also said last week that temporary layoffs would affect approximately 600 non-striking employees at its Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne. Nearly 13,000 UAW members are on strike at the three plants targeted with strikes, including approximately 3,300 at the Michigan Ford plant. Negotiations between the automakers and union officials continued during the weekend, but no breakthroughs emerged. UAW President Shawn Fain said in a statement during the weekend that layoffs of non-striking workers amounted to the auto companies trying to put the squeeze on our members to settle for less. With their record profits, they dont have to lay off a single employee. In fact, they could double every autoworkers pay, not raise car prices, and still rake in billions of dollars, Fain said. The UAW demands have been focused on a 40% proposed pay increase, the res-establishment of pensions, a 32-hour week with 40 hours of pay, a reversal of past concessions made by the union such as cost-of-living adjustments, and erasing a tiered-pay system. The automakers have countered with offers that are roughly half of that increase over the life of the contract. MASON COUNTY, MI An argument turned deadly between a Grand Rapids couple when a man hit and killed his wife with a vehicle on the highway, Mason County sheriffs deputies said. Mark Lazon Casterman, 58, was charged with open murder at arraignment Sunday, Sept. 17, in Mason County District Court connected to a crash that killed his wife, 45-year-old Melissa Sue Casterman. The crash happened around 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 15, on U.S. 31, south of Freeman Road, in Free Soil Township. Police said Melissa Casterman was driving a 2013 Lincoln MKX southbound on U.S. 31 when an argument between her and her passenger her husband, Mark happened. The woman pulled to the southbound shoulder of the road, exited the car, crossed the highway, and started walking southbound along the northbound shoulder, police said. Mark Casterman then got behind the wheel and drove past his wife twice before doing a final U-turn in front of Freeman Creek Equipment, at 7511 N. U.S. 31. The man accelerated southbound on U.S. 31, crossed the centerline, traveled down the northbound shoulder, and struck his wife. Police said she was killed instantly. During the investigation, deputies collected evidence from the road, vehicle, and the victim. On top of open murder, Mark Casterman is also charged with operating while intoxicated causing death, operating while license suspended causing death, and a third offense of operating while intoxicated. Bond was set at $1 million cash/surety. Mark Casterman is scheduled to appear in court next on Sept. 27 for a probable cause conference. Although I am heartbroken that such an event could play out in our community and done so publicly for innocent citizens to witness, I am grateful to our investigators, Mason County Sheriff Kim C. Cole said in a news release. They worked tirelessly throughout the weekend putting this case together and did so with the commitment to finding the truth and seeking justice for the victim. Read more on MLive: Man threatened shootout with police during standoff, deputies say 2 arrested for stealing $5K worth of goods from party store in 10-day span 8 road construction projects that begin this week across Michigan Some 11 million manat ($6.4 million) has been allocated for the construction of the road Gandob-Khachmaz-Yalama - state border with the Russian Federation. The corresponding decree was signed by President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. Construction work started in Da Nang on Saturday for a two-block five-story building of Hope School for children orphaned by Covid-19. The project, taking over more than 6,500 square meters in FPT Technology Urban Area in Ngu Hanh Son District, is expected to cost VND200 billion (US$8.2 million) of FPT's investment and complete in 2024. Attending the groundbreaking ceremony were leaders from Da Nang People's Committee and FPT Corporation. Da Nang leaders and FPT Corporation's representatives press buttons to start work on Hope School, September 16, 2023. Photo by VnExpress/Nguyen Dong One block of the building will be used for classrooms and the other for students' boarding rooms, with an underground parking lot. The school also includes a library and rooms for experts. Truong Thi Thanh Thanh, Chairwoman of Hope Foundation, said the construction of Hope School demonstrates FPT's commitment in taking care of children who lost their parents to the pandemic. Truong Thi Thanh Thanh, Chairwoman of Hope Foundation, speaks about the Hope School project. Photo by VnExpress/Nguyen Dong "With its success from 35 years of operation, FPT wants to accompany the society for its success and development as well, wishing to support children who lack a family with love and kindness." Thanh thanked Da Nang's leaders and supporters for having facilitated the creation of the school. Among the supporters are Taketoshi Nagaoka, General Director of United Insurance Company of Vietnam and Tairo Sugiyama, Chief of Sompo Representative Office in Hanoi, who have helped organize symphony orchestras at the school in an effort to use music to ease the children's pains. An artist's impression of Hope School established by FPT Corporation and Hope Foundation. Photo courtesy of Hope School Tran Chi Cuong, Da Nang's vice chairman, said: "I believe that with FPT's experience in management and training, the school will be a safe and convenient environment for the children to grow into confident and happy adults." Hope School opened in August 2022 and has been operating at a rented building. Its own building once completed will stand next to the FPT Complex, around 300 meters from the Co Co River, two km from the sea and 11 km from Da Nang's center. Hope School's students pose with leaders of Da Nang, representatives of FPT and Hope Foundation at the school groundbreaking ceremony. Photo by VnExpress/Nguyen Dong Hope School groundbreaking ceremony came exactly two years after FPT chairman Truong Gia Binh announced to establish the school to take care of 1,000 children who lost their parents to Covid-19. The school has received more than 300 children from across Vietnam and is going to pay for their entire education and living expenses from first to 12th grades. The students are attending classes at FPT's schools in FPT City Da Nang urban area. KALAMAZOO COUNTY, MI -- A Kalamazoo man was sentenced to 23 to 50 years in prison for a 2021 murder in Kalamazoo Township. Jayshaun Bishop, 24, appeared in Kalamazoos Ninth Circuit Court on Monday, Sept. 18, after pleading guilty to second-degree murder and felony firearms in the September 2021 homicide of Collin Mitchell, the Township of Kalamazoo Police Department said in a news release. Bishop was sentenced Monday to 23 to 50 years in prison for second-degree murder. He was sentenced to two years in prison for felony firearm. He appeared in front of the Hon. Judge Ken Barnard Monday, police said. The firearm sentence will be served before the murder sentence begins, as part of the plea agreement. Mitchell, 23, a Kalamazoo Township resident, was killed in a shooting at 12:20 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2021, at LakeView Apartments in the 1900 block of Elkerton Avenue, police said at the time of his death. Officers found him dead on the ground outside his apartment with an apparent gunshot wound. Medical personnel were called to respond. Despite rescue efforts, the subject was pronounced dead at the scene. Bishop believed Mitchell had stolen his dog, according to a probable cause affidavit filed Aug. 19, 2022, in district court. Bishop confessed to two people that he had shot Mitchell because of the dog, but he denied being involved when talking to police, the affidavit said. Want more Kalamazoo news? Our 3@3 newsletter rounds up Kalamazoos top stories every weekday at 3 p.m. Enter your email to get our free newsletter: Want more Kalamazoo-area news? Bookmark the local Kalamazoo news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Kalamazoo daily newsletter. Also on MLive: Inside the moody recording studio in Kalamazoos Edison neighborhood, 30 years in the making AI, startups among key topics as Tech Week Grand Rapids kicks off With forecasts in the 70s, Lake Michigan town will keep its beach flags up extra week Priced out of the city limits a first-time homebuyers experience in Ann Arbor LANSING, MI There is a constitutional right to abortion in Michigan, but that doesnt mean there arent still barriers. Take, for example, a recent patient who flew in from Texas, says Dr. Sarah Wallett, chief medical operating officer at Planned Parenthood of Michigan. She knew that Michigan was a haven state for abortion access, she told the House Health Policy committee on Thursday. But she did not know about the legally required 24-hour delay before we could treat her. This patient had booked a morning flight to Michigan and an evening flight back to Texas. No luggage, no hotel, no more days off work. And if she returned home without getting an abortion, Wallett said, her only option would be to continue a pregnancy against her will. Ultimately, she said, Planned Parenthood staff secured the logistical and financial support this patient needed to have the procedure and get home. But Wallett was telling this story hoping lawmakers will advance the Reproductive Health Act, which would end abortion restrictions like that waiting period. Here are three things to know. First, whats in it This package of 11 bills targets laws that are medically unnecessary, sponsors and advocates argue. Repealing them, they say, would make abortions more accessible, more affordable and safer. Laws include that waiting period, a ban on private insurance coverage of abortions, and certain abortion facility standards like procedure room size and hallway width. Catch up: Abortion fight renewed: Michigan looks to repeal cruel restrictions Colleges would also be able to refer abortion services. And abortion patients would no longer be provided with state-mandated, printed information about alternatives like adoption. This info can include pictures of fetuses. These restrictions and unnecessary regulations prevent me from providing patient-centered care to my patients every day, Wallett said. One of the bills would also end abortion providers duty to report procedures to the state health department and file a written report if patients suffer complications or die because of the abortion. Second, what the public thinks Proposal 3, which gave Michigan its constitutional right to abortion, passed last November with more than 56% of the vote. But recent polling cited by each side of the debate shows mixed public opinion regarding restrictions still in place. Polling promoted by the anti-abortion Michigan Catholic Conference shows 63% of Michigan voters support a 24-hour waiting period, as do 65% of people who voted for Prop 3. That poll was conducted in March by Lansing-based Marketing Resource Group. But a poll conducted in July by Ann Arbor-based Emma White Research and promoted by Planned Parenthood and the American Civil Liberties Union shows majority support for the Reproductive Health Act at least in battleground legislative districts. 55% of voters said they strongly or somewhat support the Act after they were given a brief description. Majorities also supported key repeals in the legislation, including 53% being in favor of repealing the waiting period law. Third, the political reality At the same time voters approved Prop 3, they also elevated Democrats to control of the legislature for the first time in 40 years. The liberal majority, however, is slim: Two votes in the House and two in the Senate. But what Democrats decided not to put in the Reproductive Health Act shows they know their margins. They will not try to repeal Michigans requirement for minors seeking an abortion to get parental consent. Lawmakers didnt want to include anything that would have prohibited the rest of the package from getting through at this point in time, Rep. Laurie Pohutsky, D-Livonia, said when the bills were introduced. Earlier this year, Democrats passed three abortion-related bills that included repealing a century-old ban superseded by Prop 3. All three bills passed the Senate on the two-vote party line, while two bills passed the House by eight votes and one bill passed by four votes. Thursdays hearing on the Reproductive Health Act was its first. To get to Gov. Gretchen Whitmers desk to sign, it must pass out of committee, pass the full House, pass a Senate committee, then pass the full Senate. It is my intention to bring up these bills very soon for a vote in the near future, said House Health Policy Committee chair Rep. Julie Rogers, D-Kalamazoo. Correction: An earlier version of this story had a daily strike expense. That has been corrected to weekly. The United Auto Workers targeted approach to striking the Big Three has already tipped dominoes and stymied other areas of production. The UAW has decided to offer the $500 weekly strike pay to any workers who are laid off as a result of the strike. About 600 Ford employees were left in limbo temporarily as their work was idled as their neighboring division walked out. Its possible the same will happen for General Motors workers in Kansas City as part production is stopped at a striking Missouri plant. The union maintains that it is a company decision to trigger layoffs. UAW President Shawn Fain said layoffs were a way for the Big Three to squeeze on our members to settle for less. Their plan wont work, Fain said. The UAW will make sure any worker laid off in the Big Threes latest attack will not go without an income. Well organize one day longer than they can and go the distance to win economic and social justice at the Big Three. Related: UAW President Shawn Fain responds to Ford, GM layoffs: Their plan wont work The UAW strike fund is estimated to sit at $825 million. Paying out nearly 150,000 UAW members simultaneously across the nation would limit the strike length to less than three months, experts say. The UAWs rolling strike is seen as a cost-saving measure as well as giving the union the element of surprise. But adding laid-off workers to payroll, plus undetermined healthcare costs, could cut more quickly into that fund. About 13,000 workers were selected Friday to strike, meaning the UAW will spend approximately $6.5 million this week, not including laid off workers. Monday marked the fourth day of the strike. Sources familiar with the UAW negotiating team said there has been movement on demands and leadership continued to meet with all three companies over the weekend and into Monday. A statement from Stellantis characterized Mondays bargaining discussion as constructive and focused on where we can find common ground to reach an agreement that provides a bridge to the future by enabling the company to meet the challenges of electrification. Fords Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne was chosen as the strike target against Ford, and it is the only selected Michigan plant. At midnight Friday, Sept. 15, approximately 3,300 Ford workers were officially on strike. Specifically, the paint and final assembly workers. That left about 600 non-striking UAW workers in the body construction department and south sub-assembly area of integrated stamping without components they needed from the striking department. Ford told them not to report to work on Friday, officially issuing the first layoffs of the strike. On Friday, the line to sign up for benefits snaked around Local 900s union hall across from the Ford picket line. Our production system is highly interconnected, which means the UAWs targeted strike strategy will have knock-on effects for facilities that are not directly targeted for a work stoppage, Ford said in a statement. The UAWs strike target at GMs Wentzville Assembly in Missouri already had a negative ripple effect the company said in a statement. The Fairfax Assembly in Kansas will likely have to idle as soon as next week, laying off 2,000 workers. Wentzville supplies critical stamping operations needed to move forward with production at Fairfax, GM said. We have said repeatedly that nobody wins in a strike, and that effects go well beyond our employees on the plant floor and negatively impact our customers, suppliers and the communities where we do business. What happened to our Fairfax team members is a clear and immediate demonstration of that fact, GM said. We will continue to bargain in good faith with the union to reach an agreement as quickly as possible for the benefit of our team members, customers, suppliers and communities across the U.S. In the meantime, our priority is the safety of our workforce. The United Auto Workers has followed through with their plans to go on strike after the union and Big Three automakers Ford, General Motors and Stellantis couldnt come to an agreement on a new contract before its deadline Thursday, Sept. 14. In the days leading up to and since the strike, MLive has provided readers insight into what a strike means for the economy and consumers, expert analysis of the unions strike strategy, a compilation of lawmaker reactions and more. To follow along with MLives UAW coverage, you can find all related stories here. Find more details about the auto strike and other recent news impacting Michigans economy, check out the stories below: UAW strikes all 3 Detroit automakers at once for first time After nine weeks of bargaining the United Auto Workers and the Big Three have not reached an agreement. A contract for the nearly 150,000 UAW members across the country expired at 11:59 p.m. Thursday, prompting a strike. For the first time in the unions 88-year history all three Detroit automakers, Stellantis, Ford and General Motors, are the strike targets. At 10 p.m. Thursday, UAW President Shawn Fain announced three locals only one in Michigan were selected to start the strike at midnight. Those locals represent Ford Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Stellantis Toledo Assembly Complex and General Motors Wentzville Assembly Center in Missouri. Unlike previous strikes, the UAW is strategically selecting local union chapters to strike automakers on a rolling basis rather than a full walk out of all members. The union is also going after all three companies rather than picking one target. Fain told members that a simultaneous walk out is still possible but the targeted approach gives the negotiation team more leverage. If we need to go all out, we will. Everything is on the table, he said Thursday night. More: UAW strikes all 3 Detroit automakers at once for first time Over 1,000 Blue Cross Blue Shield UAW workers walk out on strike Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan workers represented by the United Auto Workers walked out of work Wednesday after the union and health insurance giant were unable to reach a deal on a new contract. About a dozen Blue Cross workers picketed Sept. 13 outside the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan office in downtown Lansing. They represent only a fraction of the roughly 1,000 striking Blue Cross union employees, whose contract expired Aug. 31, across the state. The Blue Cross UAW strike came merely days before the other UAW strike against Ford, General Motors and Stellantis. While negotiating the new contract, Blue Cross employees asked the company to eliminate its multi-tiered pay system, which requires employees to work at Blue Cross for 22 years before they can reach the top of the pay scale for their positions. The affected employees primarily work customer service jobs like claim support and billing services. They also pushed Blue Cross to stop outsourcing and contracting jobs. This has led to an over 40% decrease in union membership in the last decade, according to a UAW statement. More: Over 1,000 Blue Cross Blue Shield UAW workers walk out on strike Ford battery plant project continues after judge rules against opposition A judge once again ruled against a lawsuit aiming to halt development of a $3.5 billion Ford Motor Co. battery plant in Marshall. Calhoun County Circuit Court Judge William Marietti issued a motion for summary disposition, a ruling without a trial, Thursday, Sept 14, in favor of the defendants and project supporters, the city of Marshall as well as the Marshall Area Economic Development Alliance, which joined the lawsuit in July. The Committee for Marshall Stop the Megasite sued the city in June over a failed petition to get a referendum, or public vote, on rezoning 741 acres of rural land for industrial use. In his decision, the judge referenced a Michigan Supreme Court case MGM Grand Detroit, LLC vs. Community Coalition for Empowerment Inc. that upheld a similar charter provision regarding appropriated funds. Marietti wrote the trial court does not have the prerogative to deviate from the Supreme Courts ruling. UP paper mill planning 2-week layoffs, but $1B is light at the end of the tunnel The Escanaba Mill, a key Upper Peninsula employer, will temporarily lay off employees the first two weeks of October due to a maintenance outage and low demand for paper. But union leadership isnt too worried because change is on the way. Billerud, a Swedish paper and pulp manufacturer, will be investing $1 billion to upgrade the century-old paper mill from producing paper to making an advanced paper product known as paperboard or cartonboard. The investment is part of the companys expansion into North America. More: UP paper mill planning 2-week layoffs, but $1B is light at the end of the tunnel Interested in more economy news? Check out all our coverage of how the economy impacts people in Michigan here. A number of financial incentives for post-secondary education help those interested in an early education career. Having qualified and experienced preschool teachers is a key to building a high quality preschool program. Exposing middle- and high-school students to the early education as a career path could help increase the pre-K workforce. Early education careers can be very rewarding. "... the kisses, the crayons, it's worth it. 17.09.2023 LISTEN I came across the music of the talented young artist Mohbad only after his untimely passing, and his songs have been playing non-stop since Tuesday, as I'm a devoted music enthusiast. It's disheartening to reflect on the tragic circumstances of his death and the rushed, unceremonious burial by his own father. May his soul rest in peace. It's a stark reminder that many good people don't live long in this often cruel world, where sometimes the enemies hide within our own circles, be they friends or family. From what I've gathered online and heard in interviews, Mohbad joined the Malian Record Label in 2020 with aspirations for his music career. Unfortunately, it became evident that the label had connections to illicit activities such as cultism and drug business. Mohbad and his colleagues were allegedly pressured to partake in these activities alongside their music careers, a proposition he vehemently declined. His refusal led to his blacklisting within the label. Consequently, he chose to sever ties with the record label, as he felt his music career was no longer being promoted. Despite their attempts to keep him, he forcefully left, prompting threats and harassment directed at him, even sabotaging his bookings for shows. These threats were documented with video evidence, and he reported them to the Nigerian police, but sadly, no action was taken, highlighting flaws in our institutions. On camera, Mohbad expressed, "if I die, hold Malian Records and Naira Marley responsible," a plea for help that went unanswered until it was tragically too late. In all of this, I find fault with his father, who appeared passive and neglectful in the face of threats to his son's life. It's bewildering that some individuals could menace your son's life, and you stood by without intervening until his mysterious death. Furthermore, the manner in which his burial was hastily conducted is deeply troubling. It's perplexing that a father could be so afraid to confront Malian Records on behalf of his endangered son. What was he afraid of, especially at his age? Fear of death? He had lived a considerable life; why not gather support from his community to confront these threats and report them to the authorities while drawing public attention to the matter to safeguard his son? Some fathers, sadly, fail in their responsibilities. The way he laid his son to rest, like an unknown, is nothing short of distressing. Even without wealth, one should have the wisdom to act responsibly. In this regard, he is the one who has truly lost, for Mohbad is gone. May he rest in peace. For young people, Mohbad's tragic death must serve as a reminder not to rush in pursuit of success. Not every opportunity is a good one, and the climb to success should be gradual, without being unduly pressured by external forces, fame, or wealth. Lastly, it's essential to consider exhuming Mohbad's body for a thorough autopsy to determine the true cause of his demise. If foul play is found, those responsible should be brought to justice. By Waterz Yidana #WaterzYidana #Writer #Author #Activist #JusticeForMohbad Melissa A. Mintah, a 25-year-old graduate of Central University, has been chosen as the representative of Ghana at the highly esteemed Miss Globe pageant, scheduled to take place in Albania on November 18, 2023. Melissas journey from her law degree to the international stage is marked by her unwavering commitment to creating positive change and eradicating poverty. Melissas passion for justice and helping others led her to pursue a law degree, but her inspiration to enter the world of pageantry came from the remarkable work of actress and humanitarian Priyanka Chopra, known for her advocacy for women and childrens rights. This influence ignited Melissas desire to make a difference in her community. Motivated by her deep-seated commitment, Melissa founded the No More Streetism project, a noble initiative focused on alleviating poverty in Ghana. The project encompasses five core pillars: provision of 1necessities, healthcare access improvement, promotion of education, skills training, and provision of shelter. Melissa believes that by addressing these critical areas, she can significantly impact the lives of those affected by poverty. Melissas dedication to her cause did not go unnoticed. She participated in the prestigious Miss Malaika pageant, where she emerged as a top 10 delegate, impressing judges and audiences alike with her grace, intelligence, and beauty. This success led to her selection as Ghanas representative at the Miss Africa Calabar Pageant in Nigeria, where she secured the title of 3rd runner-up, affirming her status among Africas top beauty queens. Now, Melissa is gearing up to represent Ghana at the globally renowned Miss Globe competition in Albania. This international pageant celebrates beauty, culture, and social impact, providing Melissa with a platform to amplify her advocacy for poverty eradication. She is eager to inspire others and raise awareness about the issue of poverty in her country and beyond. To achieve her goals at the Miss Globe competition, Melissa calls upon all Ghanaians for their unwavering support. She encourages her fellow countrymen and women to vote for her on the official Miss Globe website, www.theMissGlobe.com. By casting their votes, Ghanaians can actively contribute to Melissas mission and help shed light on the pressing issue of poverty in their nation. Melissa A. Mintah is not just a beauty queen; she is a compassionate force of change, driven by a burning desire to create a positive impact. Through her work with the No More Streetism project and her participation in international pageants, Melissa is poised to make a lasting impression on the world and inspire others to join her in the fight against poverty. -Daily Guide The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resource, Hon. George Mireku Duker tasked with dealing with issues relative to Ghanas mining sector has implored mining companies to make deliberate and concerted efforts towards deepening their relationship with the various mining communities by upscaling their local content participation and undertaking developmental projects in those communities. Addressing the media during a working visit to Kibi Goldfields Limited on Thursday, 14 September 2023, Hon. Mireku Duker reinforced the belief that mining companies are more likely to enjoy smooth and successful operations if they put the development and growth of the communities and residents within their catchment areas at the heart of their operations. He is of the firm conviction that mining companies should not only be interested in generating revenue and profits from the resources deposited in the communities but also make the growth of the communities and the locals a priority. This, he reckons will create a mutually satisfactory relationship between the communities and the companies and create the ideal conditions for the companies to thrive. By executing developmental projects in areas such as health, sports, education, and youth development, Hon. Mireku Duker believes the companies will be performing their fiduciary duty to the communities as well as the government. The Deputy Minister also mentioned that a deliberate attempt at growing Ghanaian giants in the industry will ultimately create a situation where qualified Ghanaians will hold key and strategic positions in leading mining companies in the world. He charged the management of Kibi Goldfields to undertake developmental projects in the Kibi and its environs. He cited for example that the inner roads in the community and others nearby could be given facelifts by the company as part of the Corporate Social Responsibilities. The company, in a presentation by Edmun outlined some major projects they have executed in the communities and promised to switch up their CSR activities following Hon. Mireku Dukers counsel. He also enumerated how the company has consistently adhered to the requirements and conditions detailed in its operational license. The visit by Hon. Mireku Duker and his team from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Minerals Commission forms part of his activities to improve the relationship between the government and the companies and also ensure that large and small-scale mining companies in the country are operating in accordance with the mining laws of the country. The Municipal Chief Executive for Sunyani West, Mr. Evans Kusi Boadum has called on all eligible residents in the Municipality, including those who have just turned the age of eighteen and adults who have not yet registered to take advantage of the ongoing limited voter registration exercise to get registered. The Chief Executive made the call when he visited the municipal office of the Electoral Commission to monitor the regist r ation exercise. He appealed to the political parties and the general public to cooperate with the Electoral Commission to ensure successful exercise and also encouraged the residents to participate in the exercise and follow the processes laid down by the Commission to enable them captured in the voter register. Mr. Eric Kani Owusu, the Municipal Electoral Officer disclosed that the exercise has been going on well with maximum cooperation from the political parties and the public. He was optimistic that all potential registrants would be captured during the Twenty-Day period which include Saturday and Sunday due to the measures put in place in collaboration with the political parties. Passengers from China's Xiamen arrive at Bangkoks Suvarnabhumi airport in Bangkok, Thailand, January 9, 2023. Photo by Reuters The Thai government pledged to boost security measures to ensure safety for Chinese tourists as the visa waiver policy is set to come into effect next week. In a Facebook post last week, the Chinese embassy said its government was happy about Thailand's move to offer visa exemption for Chinese tourists and willing to support the scheme. However, it called on the Thai government to boost safety measures for Chinese tourists. Chinese tourists can enter Thailand without a visa from September 25 to February 29 next year following a decision by the new government last week. However, there were recent reports on social media claiming some Chinese nationals were abducted while travelling in Thailand, leaving them worried about their safety, said Kanchana Patarachoke, spokeswoman for the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as cited by Bangkok Post. Thailand will make every effort to ensure safety of Chinese nationals as well as tourists from all other countries, Patarachoke added. During the first eight months of this year, Thailand welcomed around 2 million Chinese, nearly half of this year's 5 million target. Before the pandemic, Chinese tourists were the biggest market of Thailand's tourism industry. In 2019, over 11 million Chinese tourists visited Thailand, accounting for more than a quarter of its total foreign arrivals. 17.09.2023 LISTEN Kwame Governs Agbodza, the Minority Chief Whip and member of Parliament for Adaklu constituency said the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori Attah should not be defending any government official misappropriating state funds. His comment come after the finance minister, Ken Ofori Atta stated in his article titled "standing strong with the Bank of Ghana" that the central bank is not a profit making venture and for that reason admonishing the minority to abort it plans to protest for the resignation of the governor of Bank of Ghana, Dr. Ernest Addison and his deputies. In an interview with Nana Yaw Asiamah of Dream 97.1 FM in Jasikan during a town hall meeting held by hon. Kofi Iddie Adams, MP for Buem Costituency on Friday September 15 2023, Hon. Agbodza said even some NPP MPs called for the resignation of the finance minister for driving the economy into a ditch but he is still at post due to his relationship with the president. According to him, the Finance Minister is not different from the BoG Governor. "The finance minister should have been sacked long time ago. His own party said he should be sacked but he is still holding on because he is President Akufo Addo's nephew. So he is not going to sack him," he stated. "Today the finance minister is saying that it is better to build a bog office than to complete the agenda 111 here (Jasikan). You see they are now digging foundation here. But guess what, the bog building which is $ 300m is the fasted construction project going on in this country," Hon. Agbodza added. He added that gov't has lost touch with reality for prioritizing an office over a hospital. "Is the BoG office more important than the hospital in this town? They have lost their way, they have lost legitimacy, they ought not to be in govt," hon. Agbodza concluded. 17.09.2023 LISTEN A leading member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Nana Obiri Boahen is asking the party to reject the Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo's apology rendered to the leadership of the party and by extension to Ghanaians. According to Nana Obiri Boahen, the MP has no respect for the President, Ghanaians, and the entire NPP. "If you ask me, Adwoa Safo didn't deal with the party well in the first place. She disrespected the President, the party, and every Ghanaian. I'll employ the party leadership to reject her apology," the outspoken private legal practitioner spoke on Wontumi TV. He added, "She has brought shame to herself and constituents of Dome-Kwabenya." Sarah Adwoa Safo was absent from her post for over a year after traveling to the United States. She was dragged to the Privileges Committee of Parliament in 2022 where some MPs called for her seat to be declared vacant. Since her return to the country, she is now asking for forgiveness. I would like to use this opportunity to apologize to my New Patriotic Party members, the leadership. Firstly to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the Vice PreDr.dent, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, our mother, the Chief of Staff Hon. Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah Bonsu, and the entire leadership of Parliament, my colleague MPs, the Majority caucus. I would like to apologize to all of you for your behavior sometime back. I would like to say that it wasnt intended or planned to disrespect you all. I was faced with so many personal and family issues. I would like to plead with you in the name of the Lord, my regional executives, Greater Accra, constituency executives, the headquarters of NPP, the General Secretary and National Chairman and all your workers. I beg all of you, supporters, and sympathisers, who love the party and loved me and have faith in the constituency, please forgive me for all that has happened," she stated. 17.09.2023 LISTEN The leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Builsa North Constituency of the Upper East Region, says it will not go to sleep because the Constituency is their stronghold. Mr James Achaab, the Constituency Chairman of the Party, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview in Sandema that the Party would continue to work hard to maintain the Parliamentary seat and ensure former President John Dramani Mahama took over the administration of the country. He emphasized that the Party would not take anything for granted and would mount a high-spirited campaign to maintain the seat and bring Mr Mahama back to power. Yes, Builsa North Constituency is our stronghold, but we will not say because it is our stronghold, we will sleep over, no, we are working. We are working, and that is why we have taken this limited voter registration exercise very seriously, he said. He said the incumbent Member of Parliament (MP) for the area, Mr James Agalga, had worked hard to improve the lives of Constituents in all sectors of the economy, and supported the youth in the area when he was a Deputy Minister for the Interior. According to the NDC Chairman, the people of the Constituency know the contributions of Mr Agalga in the Constituency over the years. When he was not an MP and working as a lawyer in Accra, he used to help Builsas. When he eventually got the nod as MP and Deputy Minister, he continued to help the Constituency till date, he noted. Mr Achaab said the NDC was not worried about the campaign activities of the New Patriotic Party's (NPP) Parliamentary Candidate for the Constituency, Mr Thomas Kofi Alonsi. We are not entertaining any fears at all about the campaign activities of Mr Alonsi. We in the NDC are not worried, Mr Agalga is not moved by that either. It is because Mr Alonsi wants power that is why he is visiting the Constituency frequently. This is not his first time, he has lost to Mr Agalga before, so we are not worried, but focused on our mandate and campaigning on our track record which is obvious in the Constituency, he added. The NDC had consistently won elections in the Constituency right from the 1992 general elections, but only lost to the NPPs Mrs Agnes Asangalisa Chigabatia in the 2004 elections. The NDC took back the seat in the 2008 Parliamentary elections. Mr Agalga won the seat in the 2016 election with 13,886 votes, representing 61.21 per cent while Mr Alonsi who contested in that election, polled 8,652 votes representing 38.14 per cent. He again maintained the seat for the NDC in the 2020 elections when he polled 13,826 representing 56.60 per cent to beat Mr James Maurice Abakasi of the NPP who got 9,031 representing 36.97 per cent. Some political observers in the Constituency said the contest for the seat between Mr Agalga and Mr Alonsi in the 2024 elections would be tough. GNA Some New Patriotic Party (NPP) Polling Station executives in the Sunyani West constituency of the Bono region say the right person to continue President Akufo-Addos good works is his vice, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia. They are therefore calling on all NPP delegates across the country to massively vote for the Vice-President on November 4, 2023, to facilitate the process of breaking the eight-year election cycle in the Fourth Republic. The delegates in Sunyani West constituency made this known during an interaction with a leading member of the NPP, Mr. Yaw Dabie Appiah-Mensah, over the weekend. Considering how supportive Dr Bawumia has been towards the success story of President Akufo-Addos government, it will simply be fair to support him to lead the party to form the next government. This will inure to the benefit of the citizenry because he would continue with NPPs flagship programmes such as the Free SHS, 1D1F; and we dont the NDC to come and destroy such monumental policies, Dennis Amankwah Yeboah, a delegate at Odomase, Sunyani West stated. He further said Dr. Bawumia has over 90% endorsement of delegates in his constituency because he is someone who has already marketed himself not only to NPP delegates but also to the entire Ghanaian population. Mr. Kwabena Asante Krobea, Abosa Electoral Area Polling Station Chairman, was emphatic that the Vice-President will surely carry the day, come November 4, saying: Ill surely vote for Dr. Bawumia and Ill actively campaign for him to increase his votes in my electoral area and the constituency at large. Peoples welfare For her part, Madam Gifty Owusu Ansah, the Womens Organiser for the Abosa Electoral Area, said Dr. Bawumias bravery, intelligence, honesty and confidence set him apart from his other contenders in the race. From my interactions with women, especially the young ones among them, Dr. Bawumia is the most suitable person to lead the NPP into the 2024 general election because he can better help champion their welfare, she said. The Polling Station Organiser for Abrny Electoral Area, Robert Affam, believes that electing Dr. Bawumia to become the NPP flagbearer would defeat the NDCs propaganda that the party only uses northerners as running mates and later dump them. 17.09.2023 LISTEN There is a link between witchcraft accusations and widowhood in the communities. And the following incident underscores this connection. In August, a relative drew the attention of the Advocacy for Alleged Witches(AfAW) to the case of Mrs. Asekhamhe from Etsako East in Edo state. The message which was sent via Whatsapp states: " This is late Henry Asekhamhe's mother. She has been beaten like a slave in her own husband's home in Apotse, in Ivioghe, Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government in Edo state. He was accused of witchcraft because she lost her only son in a ghastly motor accident. I am calling on the women's advocacy and human rights movements to come to her aid. Please, I want the whole world to Apotse to ask Ivioghe youths how they knew that she was the person who killed her only son in a motor accident. This barbaric act must stop". The sender attached a video showing a woman who was brutalized and lying on the ground. He also sent us a photo showing the woman being supported by two relatives as she tried to walk. Although Mrs Asekhamhe sustained serious injuries, she did not die. A relative intervened, rescued and took her to the hospital for some treatment. Some days later, this relative sent us an update: "Good evening, about the case that I reported to you, that is the case of a woman who was accused of witchcraft and subsequently beaten up by some youths. The youths almost beat her to death. I rescued her and took her to the hospital where she is receiving treatment. Today is a week since this incident. She is still in the hospital. I am calling on the general public to help bring those who assaulted her to justice. This woman is a poor widow. She has no child, no son to fight for her". We phoned to the commissioner of police in Benin, the capital of Edo state but he did not pick up. We later spoke with the state police public relations officer who advised that a complaint be lodged at the area command in Auchi. We informed the relative accordingly. We were also informed that another organization, Braveheart Initiative, was working with the Edo state commissioner for social welfare and gender issues and the state police command to address the issue. Early in September, AfAW received this update from the relative: "I have taken her from the central hospital to a traditional medical center for treatment. First, we took her to an orthopedic doctor and he said that they would carry out a surgical procedure and it would cost about 3.5 million naira. We took her to a tradomedical doctor who charged about 250 thousand naira. The Braveheart Initiative paid a part of the bill, 174 thousand naira for the treatment at the central hospital. I paid the balance of 152 thousand naira. Now I am unable to pay for the treatment that she is currently receiving. I need your assistance this time, Thanks and God bless you all". The AfAW would support the treatment of Mrs. Asekhamhe although we would prefer that she be taken to an orthopedic doctor. We could only pressure the family to take her back to the orthopedic doctor for surgery if AfAW could pay for the cost of the procedure, which we cannot at this moment. Meanwhile, the Advocacy for Alleged Witches condemns the accusation and subsequent abuse and maltreatment of Mrs. Asekhamhe. She was accused of killing her only son through occult means. I mean, who does that? Moreso, who imagines that a mother, a widow for that matter, could murder her only son? Accidents have rational and commonsensical causes and explanations. Witchcraft is not one of them. Witchcraft is an explanation rooted in fear and unreason. Witchcraft is an imaginary means. Nobody uses it. Witchcraft is an imaginary crime. Nobody commits it. Of course, irrational and misguided narratives of occult harm are pervasive and motivate people to attack, harm, or murder innocent people. Hence, it has become pertinent to educate the public and reason them out of these superstitious beliefs. It is important to dispel irrational beliefs and misconceptions. There is no evidence that people can harm others through magical, spiritual, or supernatural means. Such claims are based on ignorance and blind faith. Traditional, Christian, and Islamic clerics and diviners peddle these irrational beliefs; they reinforce these baseless claims. These so-called godmen and women claim that there are principalities and powers, blood-sucking demons on the streets and highways, and they cause accidents. But there is nothing like that. These charlatans must be called to order; they should be exposed and held to account. The police should arrest and help prosecute perpetrators of witch hunts and superstition-based abuses. Witch hunters operate with impunity in many places because they are seldom made to pay for their crimes. As the case of Mrs. Asekhamhe has shown, witch hunters usually target vulnerable members of the population such as children, elderly persons, widows, and others, who are in weak socio-cultural positions. In a patriarchal society, the death of a husband puts a woman in a vulnerable position. It makes a woman a target for oppression and persecution. The AfAW urges state authorities to take effective measures to protect Mrs. Asekhamhe and other victims of witchcraft allegations in the country. Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged Witches which aims to end witch hunting in Africa by 2030 As a solution to the perineal canoe accidents occurring at Ada, Mr. Daniel Ameduame Sotei, a marine navigator, has urged the government and maritime stakeholders to transform the Ada estuary into a mini-harbour. On Tuesday morning, another incidence of canoes capsizing in the estuary due to the choppy sea was observed, leaving residents of Ada in a condition of worry once more. The fishermen were returning from a fishing trip when the two canoes, which each held 19 people, capsized. The Volta River empties into the sea near the estuary; as a result, large waves are constrained there, which frequently results in deadly accidents. As a marine navigator, Mr. Sotei, who also serves as the National Financial Secretary of the Canoe Canoe and Fishing Gear Owners Association of Ghana (CaFGOAG), noted that some nations convert their estuaries into mini-harbors. He said that in addition to bringing in money from nearby businesses and tourism, it would provide a long-term fix for accidents. "Such estuaries have been used for tourism in Dubai, for instance, and the city is profiting greatly from the practice. Instead of fleeing the area to murder people, this may result in a large number of jobs being created there. He said that the estuary could be extended and the sea defenses surrounding it could be made higher so that canoes could easily enter and exit the estuary without any issues. According to the Marine Navigator, the area might be exploited for water transportation, which is less expensive than other modes of transit. This, he claimed, would lighten the traffic on the routes connecting Tema and the Volta area. -CDA Consult || Contributor The King of the Asante Kingdom, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, left Ghana last week for the United Kingdom to grace the upcoming St Andrews Africa Summit (SAASUM). The Summit, hosted by St. Andrew's University in Scotland, saw the Monarch delivering a keynote address on the topic Traditional Leadership in a Modern Society. The event took place on Saturday, September 16, 2023, at the Upper College Hall of the university. His Royal Majesty will provide insight into the Kingdom of Asante and how the diverse peoples of Ghana fit into local and national government, noted the organizers of SAASUM. The occupant of the Golden Stool will also be held to a reception after his address. This reception is in collaboration with the University, where students and community members will be able to witness a live press conference and obtain the rare opportunity to network and meet with an array of professionals from the King himself to other varying politicians, University administrators, journalists, business owners, and more, the organizers of SAASUM noted. St Andrews Africa Summit (SAASUM) is a student-led initiative that promotes a versatile discussion about Africa, Africans, and African Affairs. -3news.com New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer hopeful, Kennedy Agyapong has disclosed that he will use agriculture to feed Africa if elected President of Ghana. Kennedy Agyapong envisions using the Northern part of the country as the food basket of Africa. If you vote me today or elect me as President of Ghana, I will use the five regions of the north, Afram plains, and Volta region to feed the whole of Africa, he promises. Addressing thousands of party folks after the 'showdown walk,' which commenced at Ayi Mensah and ended at the premises of Oman FM at Madina Zongo-junction, the Assin Central legislator stressed that Ghana can see real socio-economic development if agriculture is boosted. According to him, God has blessed Ghana with resources and needs a visionary leader who can put the resources to good use to benefit Ghanaians. We have lands here, and we are saying we are poor. We are not poor, we need a push and enlightenment. People must have confidence, so we take our destiny into our own hands and the sky will be the limit," the presidential aspirant added. He continued that he would be leveraging his philanthropism, honesty, love for humanity, and most importantly his desire to develop the country. The lawmaker for Assin Central Constituency, Mr Kennedy Ohene Agyapong disclosed that any attempt by the NPP to field Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia will spell doom for the party on November 4. "NPP needs someone like me if it wants to retain power and break the eight-year election cycle jinx," he stressed. The Minister of State at the Ministry of Finance, Dr Mohammed Amin Adam, has underscored the need for Africa's political environment to remain stable for policy consistency. According to him, recent political unrest in some regions of the continent was damaging to governments efforts to tackle climate change. Speaking at the 2023 Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi on the topic Creating a supportive policy environment to attract green Foreign Direct Investment, Dr Adam noted that policy consistency was an essential element needed in the continents pursuit of investment financing. He indicated that the time was right for Africa to guard itself against acts that tend to undermine its regional stability and cooperation and forge ahead to tap its abundant opportunities for the general good of its citizens. He said conflicts and political instability in one country can have negative spillover effects on neighbouring countries regardless of how strong their structural reforms and policies were. That, he indicated, could significantly affect foreign investment flow in the region. Overall, conflict in Africa can have far-reaching and complex consequences for international investment and regional economic development. Governments, corporations and other stakeholders must collaborate to address the core causes of conflict and create stability and security and prosperity, he implored. On scaling high-impact climate finance for Africa and reducing the cost of capital through blended finance as well as creating a supportive policy environment to attract green international investment, the Minister stated that high-level ratio instruments such as green bonds had emerged as a promising tool to mobilise substantial financial resources for climate projects. He, however, underscored the need for enhanced awareness and capacity building among African nations as a number of them still lacked the expertise to structure and issue instruments effectively. Again, there is the need for standardized frameworks and certification processes that instil confidence in investors. Harmonizing these standards at a regional level could facilitate cross-border investment and boost investor confidence, he noted. In a related development, the Minister in a separate panel discussion on From commitment to action, creating fiscal space for climate action, agenda 2063 and the SDGs in Africa said, the goal was not to survive climate crisis but to work together to achieve a desirable prosperity despite challenges. He discussed several difficulties facing the V20, including accessing capital, underrepresentation of climate-vulnerable countries in global governance and international trade mitigations. Dr Adam said a comprehensive global funding mechanism was required if Africa was to realise climate prosperity. To that end, he called for an international financial reform agenda, where multilateral development banks, especially those operating on the continent would scale up their resources towards climate-related activities which would enable regional institutions' strategies to work effectively. "Another way to address the challenge of creating fiscal space for climate action is for the global system to move away from austerity measures while accounting for the impact of climate change in debt financing, he added. He stated that regions facing higher vulnerability to climate change were more likely to suffer from severe indebtedness. So, to address that, there was the need to refine analysis tools such as debt sustainability analysis to make available liquidity for such countries and consider climate contingency swap lines between central banks or other liquidity opportunities. Another essential indicator the Minister raised was securing global deals on carbon exchange to realize near-term investments. According to him, it was incumbent on the part of the advanced countries to work closely with vulnerable countries to di-carbonize the economy rather than rejecting products coming from Africa on the accusations of high carbon content. The 2023 Africa Climate Summit was held to address Africas increasing exposure to climate change and its associated costs on the continent under the theme Driving Green Growth and Climate Finance Solution for Africa and the World. The Ghana Highway Authority has announced that a section of the N12 highway near Doli in the Bole District has been severely damaged after a nearby dam broke out. According to a statement from the Ministry of Roads and Highways, a "significant washout" occurred at Doli, approximately 25km from Sawla town, after the dam failure caused flooding that compromised the bridge connecting Southern Ghana to the Upper West region. Engineers from the Highway Authority have assessed the situation and believe repair works could take some time due to the extensive damage. In the meantime, alternative routes have been provided for motorists. "Our preliminary investigations suggest that the washout was caused by a broken dam by the side of the Road," the release stated. Motorists traveling from Wa to southern parts of Ghana are advised to take the Sawla-Fufulso road after turning off at Sawla town to connect to the N10 highway towards Techiman and Kintampo. The reverse route is recommended for those heading north to Wa. A statement further said, "We assure you that our engineers and technical team are working diligently to address the situation as quickly as practicable." The Highway Authority has urged motorists to exercise caution and use the suggested alternative routes while repair works are ongoing. Passengers at Tan Son Nhat Airport in HCMC in January 2023. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran Although it is nearly six months until the Lunar New Year, domestic airlines have started selling tickets for Vietnam's biggest holiday with round-trip prices of VND2-7 million (US$82-288) per person. On official websites of domestic carriers, air tickets for flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, Da Nang, Vinh, Thanh Hoa, Hai Phong, Chu Lai, Nha Trang between February 1 and 15 for Tet holiday are available with a variety of price ranges. Ten days before the holiday, round-trip tickets on the Hanoi-HCMC route cost VND1.9 million per person, down from last year's VND2-2.1 million. Round-trip tickets for those departing on February 6, three days before Lunar New Year's Eve, and returning on February 14, the fifth day of the lunar new year, range from VND6.9 to 7 million per person, down from last year's VND7-7.4 million. For routes from HCMC to Thanh Hoa and Vinh in north central Vietnam, round-trip tickets for seven days before Tet cost about VND4-5 million while peak days close to Tet cost VND6.9-7.1 million. For flights from HCMC to Da Nang, Chu Lai and Hue, round-trip tickets for the peak days leading up to Tet cost VND4.3-5 million, a decrease of 5% compared to the same period last year. International flights to Vietnam during the Lunar New Year have also been opened for sale with prices ranging from VND1.7 to 6 million for routes from Thailand to HCMC and Hanoi. For routes from Taichung/Taipei/South Korea/Japan to HCMC and Hanoi, round trip tickets range from VND9 to 15 million. Vietnam Airlines and its subsidiaries, Pacific Airlines and Vietnam Air Services Company (VASCO), plan to operate 15,000 flights, or 3 million seats on domestic and international routes between January 25 and February 24. Vietjet Air plans to supply 2.5 million air tickets while Bamboo Airways and Vietravel Airlines would provide 700,000 to 1 million seats during the upcoming Tet holiday. Tet, with the upcoming edition peaking on February 10, 2024, often sees millions of migrant workers from major cities and industrial hubs return to their homes for family reunions or holiday-goers flock to tourist hotspots. 18.09.2023 LISTEN Minority caucus in Parliament has hit back at Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta for accusing the previous National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration of leaving behind a derailed International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme. In an article, Ofori-Atta said the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government in 2017 inherited a derailed IMF programme and a highly impaired and ethically strained financial industry from our predecessors. His article follows a series of calls by the Minority for the resignation of the Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) for allegedly mismanaging the Central Bank. Furthermore, the Finance Minister in his article called for support for the construction of a befitting new office for BoG. Responding to Ofori-Atta, Minority Leader Ato Forson in a statement argued that the Mahama administration left behind a robust economy. The Minister of Finance should not say anywhere again that the NDC administration left behind a derailed IMF programme. Clearly, at the time we were leaving office, there was no monetary finance. For the first time in the history of Ghana, the government did not take money from the central bank even though the law allowed the then administration to take 5% of the previous year's revenue from the central bank. The people of Ghana would recall that because the Mahama administration left behind a robust economy, the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government within the first three months of its assumption of office was able to borrow US$2.25 billion from Franklin Templeton. Ato Forson emphasised that the NDC government performed incredibly well compared to what Ghanaians are now witnessing under the Akufo-Addo government. We did better than they are doing and the NDC will always do better when the good people of Ghana give John Mahama and our party the opportunity to govern from January 2025. Finally, the Minority in Parliament wishes to remind Governor Addison and Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta that the day of reckoning is very near and they will be held accountable for their collective mess, he said. He added that history will remember Ofori-Atta for taking Ghana to IMF in an ambulance, insisting that the Bog Governor resign. History will remember this Minister of Finance and the government's Economic Mismanagement Team headed by Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia for taking Ghana to the IMF in an ambulance. -citinewsroom The Minority caucus in Parliament has criticized Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta for defending the Bank of Ghana and its Governor Dr. Ernest Addison amidst the country's economic crisis. In a statement last week, Ofori-Atta vouched for the competence of the Governor after working with him over the past seven years. "Governor Addison is a competent professional of quiet courage," Ofori-Attas defence statement read in part. But the Minority Leader and former Deputy Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson slammed the two government appointees in a response on Monday, September 18. "The day of reckoning is very near and they will be held accountable for their collective mess," Ato Forson said. He accused Ofori-Atta and Ernest Addison of worsening the economic hardship facing Ghanaians. "This is rubbing salt in the injury of ordinary Ghanaians and pensioners who out of patriotism invested into the future of our country in longer dated bonds," stated the minority. The Minority Leader also referenced a Bible verse that says "Don't steal from the poor" in criticizing the debt restructuring undertaken by acclaimed Bible-literate Ken Ofori-Atta. "With sleaze, this Minister continues to tout a so-called success of governments debt operations that commenced in 2022. Yet he and his Databank owe a moral and spiritual duty to the people of Ghana to refund the commissions they earned on those very bonds that he has restructured," Minority stated. Former Finance Minister Seth Terkper has reacted to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumias confidence of defeating the opposition NDCs flagbearer John Dramani Mahama in the 2024 general elections if chosen as the NPPs flagbearer on November 4 by his party delegates. Speaking to party delegates in the Oti region, the NPP flagbearer aspirant said he will give the one-time president a showdown in the NDCs strongholds and win the upcoming elections. But the former Finance Minister urged the Vice President to first consider solving the plight of Ghanaians inflicted on them by the economic quagmire. Speaking on Accra-based Starr FM, Mr. Seth Terkper stressed that the debate about giving the NDC a showdown is unnecessary looking at the current governments poor economic performance. Before we even consider a showdown between Vice President Bawumia and former President Mahama, the NPP led by President Nana Addo Dankwa and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia must first address the pressing economic concerns that many Ghanaians have, Mr. Terkper stated. Meanwhile, the ruling NPP is set to hold its flagbearer election on November 4, to choose among Kennedy Agyapong, Owusu Afriyie Akoto, Francis Addai Nimoh and the Vice President, who will be leading the party in its bid to break the eight-year cycle of governance. John Dramani Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer has pledged to finish all abandoned projects when he regains power in 2024. According to the former president, taxpayer's money must not go to waste. He said at the NDC Greater Accra Regional Zongo Caucus Stakeholders Forum in Accra, that political parties must adopt the spirit of continuity. Im making a promise that when we come, we will continue all abandoned projects. Even projects that this current NPP government does not finish, we will continue and finish because they are funded by taxpayers money, so when you abandon them, youre wasting the money of Ghanaians, John Dramani Mahama stated. He added When we were sharing the E-Blocks, several of them were allocated to the Zongo and Muslim communities but many of those schools have been abandoned. We have done a lot in our Zongos but we are not the type who come with a paper and read. Our people can see for themselves the work the NDC did when we were in office. The forum brought together representatives of various Zongo and Muslim sects and institutions within and outside the party to share their experiences and discuss topics of mutual interest to create social connections and a sense of community. One notable personality at the forum was the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Usmanu Nuhu Sharubutu. Mr. Mahama acknowledged his appreciation for the long-standing support his party has received from the Zongo communities and the Islamic fraternity and vowed never to take it for granted. Following her apology, Member of Parliament (MP) for Dome-Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo has disclosed her intention to contest the New Patriotic Partys parliamentary candidate in the constituency. She said politics is a game of numbers so with the numbers on her side as well as the Almighty God, she will run again for the party. The embattled 3-term lawmaker said she has a lot to do for the constituents so they should forgive her and offer her another opportunity to represent them. Politics is a game of numbers, if its the will of God and the people want me, I will run again, Adwoa Safo said during an engagement with journalists. She continued, I still have a lot to do for my people and I have to take the pain to explain to them the reasons for my absence and when the time comes. "I shall not desert my people, I shall represent them again by Gods grace, and I think that my people still love me. Adwoa Safo recently offered an unqualified apology to the NPP, her constituents and the entire Ghanaians over her long absence from Parliamentary duties without permission. She explained that it wasnt deliberate but due to a lot of issues she was facing. 18.09.2023 LISTEN Retired Commissioner of Police (COP) George Alex Mensah has expressed his desire to run for the Ashanti Region's Asante Bekwai parliamentary seat. According to Mr. Mensah, there are several ways to carry out one's desire to serve people. He said in an interview on Angel FM that, Im no longer a police officer. I knew from the day I became an officer that a day like this would come. Im happy Ive served my country. I have so many options and its been a passion of mine to serve my people in the Asante Bekwai constituency. I will contest the seat. Despite being a well-known supporter of the NPP, COP Mensah (Rtd) remained quiet on the party's ticket he intends to run on. First Deputy Speaker of Parliament Joseph Osei Owusu, better known as Joe Wise, presently holds the seat which has been the stronghold of the NPP but may not run in the next general elections in 2024. George Alex Mensah (Rtd) gained popularity after he and other senior police officers were caught in a leaked tape planning to oust the current Inspector General of Police (IGP). He appeared before a bipartisan parliamentary ad-hoc committee where he criticised the IGP for allegedly mismanaging the service and withholding the promotion of junior officers in the Police Service. On October 2, 2023, he again faced the parliamentary committee probing the leaked tape. The French environmental health agency has confirmed the negative impact of certain chemicals on coral, including several substances present in sunscreens. With territories in three tropical oceans, France harbours ten percent of the world's coral, which is already under threat from climate change. The French Agency for food, environmental and occupational health (Anses), has urged the French government to limit or enforce limits on runoffs of chemicals that could harm coral reefs, which provide fifty percent of the earth's oxygen, and are currently under threat. While studies have shown that climate change, which warms and acidifies ocean water, impacts coral, Anses confirmed in its report published Monday that coral destruction is also caused by pollution linked to human activity, and that at least 15 to 20 chemicals that end up untreated in the ocean increases coral degradation. Saving what's left of coral reefs "The expertise shows that half of the evaluated substances can present risks to coral reefs and contribute to their degradation, Anses said of its study looking at 53 substances, and warning that a lack of data means the number is probably underestimated. Twenty percent of coral reefs have been irreversibly destroyed over the last decades, the report said, and only a third are in a satisfactory state. Anses looked at the impact of chemical substances at the request of the government and the French office for biodiversity, and used data available from French departments Guadeloupe, Martinique, Reunion Island and Mayotte. The 53 substances in the study include hydrocarbons, pesticides, metals, microplastics, pharmaceutical products and UV filters found in sunscreen and cosmetics. Sunscreen harms coral The report highlights the impact of sunscreen on coral, identifying three toxic chemicals: oxybenzone, octinoxate and octocrylene. Anses has previously asked the French state to restrict the use of octocrylene, which breaks down into benzophenone, an endocrine disrupter, which could keep coral from reproducing. France said it would like to see such restrictions managed on a European level. In its report published Monday, Anses questioned allegations made by some French and international sunscreen brands that their products respect the ocean and environment. While this study does not address the evaluation of these allegations, the experts question their origin in the face of results of the literature analysis that shows a lack of specific data about the toxicity of the substances studied on coral, the study wrote. The presence of one of these substances [oxybenzone, octinoxate or octocrylene] appears incompatible with the possibility of supporting such allegations. (with AFP) Some frustrated youths in Tontokrom, located in the Amansie South district of the Ashanti Region, have taken their concerns about unemployment a notch higher due to the authorities' failure to establish a flagship Community Mining programme in the area. Expressing their deep dissatisfaction with the lack of progress, these unemployed youths are now issuing threats to resist the conduct of the 2024 elections in their communities. Despite numerous attempts to communicate their request and even demonstrating in front of the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources in charge of Mining, George Mireku Duker, their plea for the implementation of Community Mining in their area remains unanswered. The spokesperson for the youth, Kwabena Animoyam, stressed their frustration in an interview with the media. He stated that they are Ghanaian citizens and voters, yet the authorities seem to prioritise the interests of foreign mining companies over addressing the dire unemployment situation in their community. Mr Animoyam emphasised their demand: "We are Ghanaian voters and we are unemployed, yet our authorities are rather protecting a foreign company by the name of Asanko. We are telling them that without Community Mining, there will be no vote. So, we won't allow any campaign to take place." The youth spokesperson revealed that they are giving authorities until the end of December 2023 to address their concerns, or they will follow through with their threat. This ultimatum follows a series of clashes with South African mining firm Asanko Mines, which frequently deploys armed civilians, soldiers, police, and alleged national security operatives to assert their claim over a portion of mining concession that the youth have earmarked for their Community Mining initiative. The youths' frustration stems from the fact that all attempts to establish the Community Mining programme in their area have proven futile, despite government assurances to look into their concerns. Earlier this year, Deputy Minister George Mireku Duker promised to address the youth's concerns, but despite this pledge and subsequent appeals, no meaningful action has been taken. The youth also expressed disappointment in their Member of Parliament, Mr Yaw Frimpong, who they believe has not made sufficient efforts to advocate their cause. The frustrated youths argue that they are being denied employment opportunities while state security agencies protect private and foreign firms at their expense. They highlighted the dire state of development in their community, including poor road infrastructure. They emphasised their desire for Community Mining as a legitimate means to create employment and improve their living conditions. In 2019, the government launched the Community Mining scheme as a replacement for destructive illegal mining, or "galamsey." The initiative aims to create decent livelihoods for Ghanaians, particularly the youth, in mining communities across the country, with a focus on regions such as Ashanti, Western, and Eastern. -Classfmonline.com 18.09.2023 LISTEN The Minority in Parliament has warned the Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta to prepare to face accountability when the National Democratic Congress (NDC) comes to power. This is contained in a press release replying the Finance Minister on his article justifying the Bank of Ghanas decision to build a new headquarters. In his article last week, Ken Ofori-Atta said instead of attacking BoG Governor Ernest Addison and calling for his resignation, Ghanaians should rather support him. Governor Addison is a competent professional of quiet courage. It is either simply the height of irony or a sad reflection of the state of public discourse in our country that this man, steps up in a period of unprecedented global economic meltdown and domestic economic crises, and he is being pilloried for his good work, Ken Ofori-Atta said in his defense of Dr. Ernest Addison. In the Minoritys press release signed by its Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, it has warned the Finance Minister that the day of reckoning is coming. According to the Minority, the next NDC government will ensure the Minister and the Governor of the Central Bank account to the Ghanaian people for every mess created. the Minority in Parliament wishes to remind Governor Addison and Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta that the day of reckoning is very near and they will be held accountable for their collective mess, part of the release added. The Minoritys release further assured Ghanaians that with the opportunity to rule the country after the 2024 General Election, the NDC will perform better than the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). The Minister of Finance should carry his mess and his shame. He should not bring the NDC into matters that border on his greed, state capture for his family and friends as well as his monumental failure in pubic office. We did better than they are doing and the NDC will always do better when the good people of Ghana give John Mahama and our party the opportunity to govern from January 2025, the Minority added in its release. Below is a copy of the release from the Minority: The Minister of Finance should carry his mess and his shame. He should not bring the NDC into matters that border on his greed, state capture for his family and friends as well as his monumental failure in pubic office. We did better than they are doing and the NDC will always do better when the good people of Ghana give John Mahama and our party the opportunity to govern from January, 2025. 27. Finally, the Minority in Parliament wishes to remind Governor Addison and Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta that the day of reckoning is very near and they will be held accountable for their collective mess. Hundreds of residents at AblekumaAgbozome in Accra have been rendered homeless after a combined team of military and police personnel supervised a demolition exercise in the area. The residents, who had built their homes on the banks of the Weija Dam, say they were given little notice to move. Some irate residents who spoke to Citi News say they have no place to sleep. We were given little notice, they have demolished all our houses, we are stranded, we dont have any place to go, the residents said. The Municipal Security Council of Ablekuma West had in June 2023 urged all developers in the municipality to secure a building permit before constructing buildings. The council maintains that all developers must obtain proper authorization from the Municipal Assembly before erecting a structure. Speaking to the media after meeting with some residents of Otodjo ahead of an exercise to demolish a building with a structural defect, the Chairman of MUSEC of Ablekuma West, George Cyril Bray, cautioned developers to obtain the required documentation before any structure is built. By Citi Newsroom The United States has targeted key Hizballah operatives and financiers operating a network in South America and Lebanon that helps fund Hizballahs terrorist activities in South America. From the very beginning, Hizballah, which is based in Lebanon, has established an extensive global infrastructure and commercial interests that allow Hizballah operatives to travel and operate freely, and transfer materials and funds. The United States Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control, or OFAC, designated, pursuant to Executive Order 13224, as amended, seven key individuals and entities operating in this network. OFAC is working on this case with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. Amer Mohamed Akil Rada is a longtime member of Hizballah. He lives in Lebanon but spent over a decade in South America working on behalf of Hizballah. As much as 80 percent of the proceeds of his commercial enterprises goes toward Hizballah operations. In addition, in 1994, he was involved in the bombing of the community center for the largest Jewish community in South America, killing 85 people and wounding hundreds more. Like his brother Amer, Samer Akil Rada is a member of Hizballah. He has been actively linked to crimes related to illicit drug trafficking and money laundering in various countries in Latin America. Samer is the General Manager and CEO of Venezuela-based BCI Technologies C.A., which is also being designated pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for being owned, controlled, or directed by, directly or indirectly, Samer. Amers son Mahdy Akil Helbawi conducts, on Amers behalf, business activities in Colombia. He is Chief Operating Officer of Zanga S.A.S., which has been the main supplier of companies controlled by individuals in this network, including Amer. Zanga S.A.S has been sanctioned for being owned, controlled, or directed by Helbawi. Lebanon-based company Black Diamond SARL received about $40,000 worth of transfers from Zanga S.A.S. It is being sanctioned for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided support or goods or services for Zanga S.A.S. Ali Ismail Ajrouch is being designated for owning or controlling Black Diamond SARL. Todays action underscores the U.S. governments commitment to pursuing Hizballah operatives and financiers no matter their location, said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian E. Nelson. We will continue to root out those who seek to abuse the U.S. and international financial system to fund and engage in terrorism. A study conducted by the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has revealed that residents of cities in the country are experiencing high levels of stress. This research, known as the 'Ghana Cities Monitor' was undertaken to assess the quality of life of urban dwellers in the country. The study encompassed 23 cities across Ghana, including the three Metropolitan Assemblies: Kumasi Metropolis, Accra Metropolis, and Tamale Metropolis. Additionally, it included 20 Municipal Assemblies in the Ashanti, Greater Accra, and Northern regions. The CDD examined various aspects of life, consisting of six major components and 17 sub-components, to measure the quality of life in these cities. Regrettably, none of the cities achieved even a quarter of 100 points in terms of local governance, participation, and accountability, as reported by Mr Gildfred Asiamah, a Research Analyst at CDD. ''These aspects encompassed healthcare, education, social protection, job opportunities, and access to markets," he explained. However, the research found that issues relating to communication, electricity, and water services received more positive feedback from the participants. Mr Asiamah highlighted the considerable challenges faced by residents in urban areas, leading to their heightened stress levels. He called on the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies to step up their efforts to improve the living conditions of people in these cities. On a related note, Prof Paul Sarfo-Mensah from the Department of Bureau of Integrated Rural Development at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) advocated the election of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs). He argued that such elections would incentivise MCEs and DCEs to work diligently to enhance the lives of their constituents and secure their positions. -Classfmonline.com It was long past midnight when Abdel Moneim Awad al-Sheikh awoke to desperate screams from outside his home in the Libyan city of Derna, only to find his building engulfed by surging flood waters. "I took nothing but my glasses and cellphone and fled as the waters shook the iron doors like an earthquake," recounted the 73-year-old survivor of the deadly disaster. He and his family managed to escape from the first floor and rush up the stairs of the multi-storey building as the raging waters tore away the front door and swept it into the darkness. From the top floor, they watched in horror as the tsunami-sized tidal wave swept away entire buildings, cars and the people inside them, washing untold numbers into the Mediterranean Sea. The enormous flood, fuelled by torrential rains on September 10, had broken through two upstream dams and sent a giant wave crashing down the previously dry river bed, or wadi, that bisects the city of about 100,000 people. Survivors look at the rubble of destroyed buildings in Libya's eastern city of Derna. By KARIM SAHIB (AFP) A week on, thick mud cakes the devastated building where al-Sheikh and his wife lived, along with two of their sons and their families, in the city where the official death toll has climbed above 3,000. Scramble onto roof A member of the Algerian Rescue Team. By Karim SAHIB (AFP) By the time they had reached the fourth floor that traumatic night, the water had temporarily begun to subside, but it was not the end of the nightmare, said al-Sheikh. Roughly 20 minutes later, "my son yelled from upstairs and said another, bigger wave, about 20 metres (66 feet) high, is coming". "We put up a wooden ladder and climbed up onto the second roof, where we stayed until after dawn." As the sun rose over Derna, now an apocalyptic wasteland of shattered buildings and lives lost, a group of volunteers came to help them, most of them young men. "One of them had lost his entire family," said al-Sheikh. The enormous flood, fuelled by torrential rains on September 10, broke through two upstream dams and sent a tidal wave crashing down into the city of 100,000. By KARIM SAHIB (AFP) Amid the chaos, the true death toll remains unknown, with the health minister of divided Libya's eastern administration, Othman Abdeljalil, saying 3,283 people were confirmed dead in Derna. Libyan officials and humanitarian organisations have warned that the final toll could be much higher, with thousands still missing. 'Mountain of water' Many who survived the flood lost everything except their lives, their homes now only shells emptied of their contents. Mohamed al-Zawi, 25, recalled that "all our furniture and things were moving" as water swirled through their home. The first wave was only at pavement-level, but the second came "with strength", quickly reaching the second and then third floors of his building. Map showing buildings and roads destroyed or damaged in the Libyan city of Derna after a flash flood, according to satellite data from Copernicus.. By ClAa PACULIER, Sophie RAMIS (AFP) Zawi recalled seeing "a large mountain of water bringing with it cars, people, belongings... and pouring everything out into the sea". Seated near what was once his home, the shock remains etched onto Zawi's face. "We had received warnings a day earlier that strong rains were expected and that we should remain at home, but nothing else," he said. UN experts have blamed the high death toll both on climatic factors and the legacy of Libya's war that has weakened its critical infrastructure, early warning systems and emergency response. 'I saw death' Zawi said that when he finally managed to come down from the roof, once the waters subsided, he saw "25 or 30 bodies" along the nearby streets. He rushed to find shrouds for them, he said, before moving on to help the search for any survivors. In the same neighbourhood, Mohamed Abdelhafiz, a Lebanese national who has lived in Derna for decades, recounted that "the earth shook" that night, and he initially though a quake had hit. Rescue personnel recover a body from the rubble of a building in Derna in the aftermath of the devastating flood. By Abu Bakr AL-SOUSSI (AFP/File) "I saw death," the 50-year-old said, recalling how he had rushed out to his balcony only to find that the water had already reached it. Standing at an empty window frame, days later, he pointed outside to the shattered city and said: "This whole area, from my house to the wadi, had three or four buildings." "Now, there is nothing. The ground is just mud, as though there were never any buildings here." Member of Parliament for Bantama Constituency, who is also Minister for Works and Housing, Francis Asenso-Boakye has demanded that Kennedy Agyapong, Member of Parliament for Assin Central, stop peddling falsehood against him. In a press release, the minister stated that my attention has been drawn to some regrettable remarks made by Hon Kennedy Agyapong, Member of Parliament for Assin Central and aspiring presidential candidate for the New Patriotic Party at a rally held in Accra on Saturday, September 16, 2023. The said remarks are to the effect that a certain minister of state from Bantama had told delegates to vote for his Excellency Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to be elected presidential candidate of the party so as to become more attractive to Ghanaians after four years of HE John Mahama's imminent presidency. Even though he did not explicitly mention my name, I am currently the only minister of state from Bantama, so I reasonably assume he is referring to me. This blatant lie is not only ludicrous but also politically puerile. The NPP Government is deeply committed to working hard to improve the well-being of Ghanaians and by so doing earn their continued goodwill. The false attribution by Hon Kennedy Agyapong is clearly a mischievous lie deliberately made with the sole intention to cause disaffection for me, sully my good standing within the party and neutralise whatever leverage I have on the delegates. His view about the party's presidential primary, he said, is widely known to the party members, and it is that Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia is the extraordinary candidate that the NPP needs to break the eight. He has urged all to disregard Ken's remarks and to rather focus instead on building unity that will serve as the bedrock for winning the 2024 election. -DGN online Hon. Kennedy Agyapong, a flagbearer aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and chair of the Defense and Interior Committee of Parliament, has commended the performance of the current Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare. Mr Agyapong cautioned the government against any plans to replace the IGP, emphasising that such a move could impact the governing party. He attributed the significant reduction in robberies across the country to the positive changes implemented within the police service under IGP Dr. Dampare's leadership. Mr Agyapong acknowledged that, despite past disagreements with the IGP, he believes Dampare has excelled in his role as the police chief. Agyapong mentioned the remarkable transformation at the police headquarters as evidence of Dr. Dampare's foresight and effectiveness. Speaking on Kumasi-based Kessben FM, he urged against removing the IGP, highlighting the substantial reduction in armed robbery cases and the improvements in the police headquarters' appearance under his leadership. These comments from Agyapong follow the recent public interest in the special parliamentary committee investigating an alleged plot by some senior police officers to remove the IGP, as revealed in leaked audio recordings. -Classfmonline.com Serious violations are still being committed in Ethiopia despite a peace deal in the north, UN rights experts said Monday, warning the conflict was spreading across the country and putting regional stability at risk. "Atrocities, war crimes and crimes against humanity are still being committed in the country," the United Nations-backed investigators said in a statement. Last November, a peace deal between Ethiopia's federal government and rebels in the Tigray region ostensibly ended a brutal two-year conflict. "While the signing of the agreement may have mostly silenced the guns, it has not resolved the conflict in the north of the country, in particular in Tigray," said Mohamed Chande Othman, head of the UN-backed Commission of Human Rights Experts on Ethiopia. "Nor has it brought about any comprehensive peace," he told reporters in Geneva, presenting the commission's latest report. "The situation in Ethiopia remains extremely grave." Beyond Tigray, the report warned that "hostilities in Ethiopia are now at a national scale, with significant violations increasing particularly in Amhara region, but also ongoing in Oromia and elsewhere". "The risk to the state as well as regional stability and the enjoyment of human rights in East Africa cannot be overstated." 'Truly horrific' Radhika Coomaraswamy, a member of the commission, told reporters there were "indicators for the possibility of future atrocity crimes", with the tensions appearing to be "between two ethnic groups". "What is needed is a comprehensive peace agreement involving all Ethiopians." A mosaic of more than 80 ethno-linguistic communities, Ethiopia has long struggled with territorial conflicts inside its borders. The Tigray conflict, which erupted in November 2020, pitted Ethiopia's government forces -- backed by Eritrea's army and forces from the neighbouring region of Amhara -- against the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). It was marked by mass atrocities by all sides, but there were hopes the violations would cease after the signing of last year's peace deal. Yet the report said that Eritrean troops and Amhara militia members were continuing to commit grave violations in Tigray, "including the systematic rape and sexual violence of women and girls". The sexual violence is "truly horrific", Coomaraswamy said. She said that she had personally interviewed many of the victims and heard accounts of "gang rapes" and "cruelty of the worst kind". "The worst of this was perpetrated by Eritrean forces in Tigray," she said. 'Impunity' The commission, which is due to present its report to the UN Human Rights Council later this week, uncovered ongoing patterns by government forces of arrest, detention and torture of civilians in Oromia. It also pointed to "an alarming pattern of increased securitisation of the state", including by imposing states of emergency, accompanied by serious violations. It said it was already receiving credible reports of violations against Amhara civilians since the announcement of a state of emergency last month. They included the mass arbitrary detention of civilians and at least one drone strike carried out by the state, it added. Last week, Ethiopia's human rights body accused government forces of carrying out extra-judicial killings in the region. The commission, whose mandate is due to expire next month, said it had drafted a confidential list of alleged perpetrators of the worst violations, with an eye to future prosecution. In the meantime, "the importance of ongoing and robust independent monitoring and investigations cannot be overstated", Othman said, stressing that "one of the primary drivers of the conflict is impunity". He dismissed the Ethiopian government's assertion that it is addressing that problem. "When we observe current transitional justice initiatives in Ethiopia, it is hard not to be struck by evidence of quasi-compliance," he said. He said the government was deliberately attempting to evade international scrutiny through the creation of domestic mechanisms and instrumentalisation of others. "For the hundreds of thousands of victims of atrocities across Ethiopia, this cannot and should not be allowed to continue." Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has commended the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) for its dedicated service to the nation over the years. He said the decline in the number of fire outbreaks across the nation is encouraging and evidence that everyone should act to prevent fires. He was speaking at the Cadet Course Intake XXIII graduation parade at the Fire Academy & Training School in Accra. 339 Officer cadets met the enlistment criteria and serving officers who met the qualifications for advancement into senior officer corps. Dr Bawumia said the government was aware of the scope of the Fire Service's responsibilities and assured of the government's commitment to providing the Service with all the resources and tools required to carry out its duty. According to the Vice President, resourcing of the Fire Service is evident in the number of projects that have sprung up at the Fire Academy and Training School and that two Fire Academy and Training Schools and a Fire College are also under construction at Duayaw Nkwanta, Wungu and Kyebi. Dr Bawumia encouraged the graduating officers to give their best and endeavour to make a difference wherever they find themselves. He also urged them to uphold the GNFS's noble principles and serve as worthy ambassadors of the Service. The Minister for Energy, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has called on developed nations to fulfil their financial commitments and support developing countries in their pursuit of achieving net-zero targets. He made the appeal at the high-level SDG Summit Action Weekend, held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, USA, on Sunday. Dr Prempeh emphasized the financial challenges faced by developing countries to attain Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7), which aims at providing clean and affordable energy to all by 2030. He emphasized that many developing nations rely heavily on wood fuel for their energy needs and stressed the urgent need to transition away from such sources to combat climate change effectively. He underscored the critical role of energy in driving economic development, particularly in Africa, emphasizing that Africa's right to develop its energy resources for the betterment of its people should be respected without interference. Addressing the issue of greenhouse gas emissions, the Minister identified electricity, cooking and transportation sectors as key areas that need to transition toward a net-zero emissions future. He stressed the importance of adopting clean energy production and utilization while implementing measures to mitigate emissions during the process. Dr Prempeh highlighted the Ministry of Energy's proactive efforts in promoting clean cooking, including the goal of achieving 50% LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) usage and delivering 3 million improved efficient charcoal stoves by 2030. We recognize that the electricity, cooking and transportation sectors are key areas in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Consequently, steps must be taken to transition these sectors towards a net-zero emissions future, he added. He reiterated Ghana's commitment to partnering with investors to explore new energy frontiers that support sustainable, environmentally friendly and gender-responsive economic growth. The Minister for Finance, Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta, has urged West African leaders to step up efforts to keep their economies growing to realise the proposed one currency for the sub-region. The Ministers request underscores the urgency of the situation and the ambitious goals set by West African nations to achieve monetary unity. He made the call during the 50th Meeting of the Convergence Council of Ministers and Governors of the Central Banks of the Member States of the West African Monetary Zone last Friday in Accra. It has become imperative for Member States to continue to implement prudent fiscal, monetary and exchange rate policies and adopt policy measures aimed at enhancing domestic revenue mobilisation and diversification of our economies, he added. It would be recalled that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Heads of State adopted a roadmap for the introduction of a shared currency dubbed ECO in June 2021. According to him, the journey towards a single currency programme and more broadly, the economic integration agenda had been a long one but was hopeful the meeting would intensify achievable commitments towards the single currency programme for 2027. Given the challenging macroeconomic environment facing ECOWAS the dream of a single currency may seem distant, perhaps even utopian, to some, but we cannot relent, Mr Ofori-Atta assured. He disclosed among other things the need to leverage on the gains made in trade integration and financial integration to chart a clearer path towards the ECO. In the early hours of Friday, September 15, 2023, the distinguished leadership of the Ballot Education Project, originating from Ghana, visited the offices of the Malaysian Coalition of Clean and Fair Elections. The visit was spearheaded by the prominent figures at the helm of the Ballot Education Project, featuring Founder Dennis Boakye, Co-founder Bright Botchway, Executive Secretary Joseph Essuman-Arthur, and Albert Kweku Simpson, Director of Communication/Consultant. The meeting serves as a historic moment, where the visionary leaders of the Ballot Education Project, known for their unwavering commitment to advancing transparency and fairness in electoral processes, have come together with their counterparts from Malaysia. The Malaysian Coalition of Clean and Fair Elections, renowned for its steadfast dedication to democratic principles and the promotion of free and equitable electoral systems, has graciously extended this invitation as a testament to the shared values and objectives that unite these two esteemed organizations. The collaboration between these two distinguished entities presents a promising opportunity for the exchange of knowledge, experiences, and best practices in the realm of electoral education and advocacy. It underscores the global significance of electoral integrity and the pivotal role played by organizations such as the Ballot Education Project, under the guidance of Dennis Boakye, Bright Botchway, Joseph Essuman Arthur, and Albert Kweku Simpson, in nurturing democratic ideals. As the leaders of the Ballot Education Project join their Malaysian counterparts on September 15, 2023, the world watches with eagerness. This gathering signifies the universal importance of clean and fair elections and the boundless potential for positive change that emerges when nations unite in the noble course of championing democracy. The meeting stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication and leadership of individuals such as Dennis Boakye, Bright Botchway, Joseph Essuman Arthur, and Albert Kweku Simpson, who tirelessly work to ensure that every citizen's voice is heard, every vote counts and that the principles of democracy continue to shine brightly on the global stage. 18.09.2023 LISTEN Private legal practitioner, Nana Obiri Boahen is set to embark on a political campaign to the sixteen regions of the country ahead of the New Patriotic Party (NPP)'s presidential primaries scheduled for November 4, 2023. According to him, he aims to ensure that the Vice President, Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia emerges the winner of the NPP's presidential primaries and subsequently wins the upcoming 2024 general elections. "This week and by the grace of God, I am driving the Mamprusi train to Oti Region and campaign for Dr. Bawumia. I'll do Wa, Hamile and other places later. I am going to pay a courtesy to Wa-Naa and other prominent chiefs in the Oti Region. And ask for the spirits of our ancestors to solidly rally behind Dr. Bawumia. "I aim to ensure that Dr. Bawumia beats other contenders convincingly. After, he will have our full support to lead us to break the 8," Nana Obiri Boahen, a staunch supporter of Dr. Bawumia's presidential bid spoke on Wontumi TV. According to him, he is prepared to do anything within his power to ensure Bawumia wins the 2024 election to become the President of Ghana. Last year, went to Walewale to see the graves of Bawumias parents and asked for their spiritual support. I told them that, if spirits indeed operate, then they should be behind me to give glory to their son Bawumia and themselves. "I also went to CK Tedams grave to do the same thing because while he was alive, he read me, Obiri Boahen narrated. Bawumia is one of the aspirants contesting the NPPs primaries to lead the party into the 2024 elections. Its been a year since a young Kurdish Iranian woman, Mahsa Amini, died in the custody of Irans notorious Morality Police. She had been arrested for improperly wearing her hijab. The protests that followed, led by women and girls, and joined by brothers, fathers, and sons, were the most intense and wide-spread anti-government demonstrations since the start of the Islamic Republic in 1979. The regime responded with a brutal crackdown: hundreds of people were killed; tens of thousands arrested; at least seven executed. In a statement marking the anniversary of Mahsa Aminis death, President Joe Biden said, In the face of continued oppression and violence, the citizens of Iran remain committed to this movement and to their fight for a free and democratic future. Iranians alone will determine the fate of their country, but the United States remains committed to standing with them. Looking back over the year, President Biden pointed to the U.S.-led campaign to oust the Iranian government from the UN Commission on the Status of Women; the creation of a UN fact-finding mission to investigate the regimes human rights abuses; the assistance the U.S has given the Iranian people to access the Internet and avoid censorship. Additionally, the U.S. has sanctioned over 70 individuals and entities for supporting the regimes oppression. On September 15, the U.S. announced additional sanctions targeting, in President Bidens words, some of Irans most egregious human rights abusers. The designations, announced by the U.S. Treasury Department in coordination with Britain, Canada, Australia and other partners, target 29 individuals and entities in connection with Aminis death and the regimes continued efforts to silence dissent. The designations include leaders of Irans security forces; the head of Irans Prison Organization; two companies that assist in the regimes internet censorship; and several state-controlled media organizations. Separately, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the United States is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on 13 Iranian officials and other individuals for their involvement in the detention or killing of peaceful protestors or the inhibition of their rights to freedom of expression or assembly. Secretary Blinken noted that the Iranian people have been met with unspeakable violence by the Iranian regime. The United States, he declared, will continue to take appropriate actions, alongside our international partners, to hold accountable those who suppress Iranians exercise of human rights. Africa is responsible for the most successful military coups106of the at least 242 that have taken place worldwide since 1950. A trend that must be a cause of concern to every African on the continent. A neoliberal democratic program was launched in Africa following the end of the Cold War. In favor of political plurality and the rule of law, it vowed to free the continent from authoritarianism and military coups. Therefore, many years later, coups were believed to be uncommon, if not extinct, and dictatorships to be in decline. There have been many explanations suggested for the recent surge of coups, but it is more important to consider whether they are only a passing fad or the start of a long-lasting trend. Given the escalating mistrust between people and their governments and the rapid deterioration of the already teetering democratic and economic systems across the continent, the latter seems to be the reality. In either case, coups are infrequently a remedy for poor administration. The pattern needs to be reversed immediately. It also calls for a reconsideration of the neoliberal democratic mission in Africa, nevertheless. With 17 coups and attempted takeovers, six of which were successful, Sudan has experienced the most. With nine takeovers and one unsuccessful attempt, Burkina Faso in West Africa has experienced the most successful coups. Following independence, Nigeria had a reputation for military takeovers with eight occurring between January 1966 and Gen. Sani Abacha's takeover in 1993. Burundi's history has been marked by eleven separate coups, mostly driven by the tensions between the Hutu and Tutsi communities. Sierra Leone experienced three coups between 1967 and 1968, and another one in 1971. Between 1992 and 1997, it experienced five further coup attempts. Ghana has also had its share of military coups, with eight in two decades. The first was in 1966, when Kwame Nkrumah was removed from power, and in the following year there was an unsuccessful attempt by junior army officers. Eleven different coups have occurred throughout Burundi's history, most of them were sparked by conflicts between the Hutu and Tutsi populations. Between 1967 and 1968, there were three coups in Sierra Leone, and there was a fourth in 1971. Additional coup attempts totaled five between 1992 and 1997. In Ghana, electoral process is not confined to a single day; instead, it encompasses a series of significant steps and procedures that begin as soon as an election is over. The vital role played by the Electoral Commissioner (EC) throughout these stages is instrumental in guaranteeing the integrity of a free and fair election. The ongoing voter registration undertaken by the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana at its 268 district offices is a crucial process however, it would displace new voters on election day if reasonableness is not exercised. This is because, the registration exercise is not decentralized enough to inform new voters about their respective polling stations where they can exercise their franchise on election day. According to data from the Electoral Commission, Ghana has 33,367 polling stations. Therefore, carrying out the voter registration process at the polling station results in alerting the electorate of where to cast their ballots on election day. On the other hand, because the registration process is focused on the 268 district offices of the EC, new voters would be dispersed from the 275 constituencies. Additionally, the old credo "vote where you registered" would no longer apply, and new voters would be required to locate the proper polling stations that correspond with their voter ID/serial number in order to cast their ballots. It should be mentioned that in the past, when voter registration took place at the polling station, voters occasionally had trouble locating the designated voting station because there were more than one voting station at a given polling station. The polling stations serve as the principal places to cast a ballot and are strategically situated in close proximity to voting residents. This close proximity makes it easier for existing voters to guarantee the identity of new voters, up to a maximum of 10 people, in accordance with C.I. 91 (as amended by C.I. 126). Consequently, the process of voter registration is made more accessible, sparing new registrants the burden of transporting two guarantors to the district office. Moreover, this approach ensures efficient resource allocation by preventing unnecessary expenditures on voter education by EC regarding future polling locations. YAFO Institute calls on the EC to reconsider decentralizing the voter registration exercise at the various polling stations and put in necessary steps to ensure that new voters are not displaced on election day in the near future. Source: YAFO INSTITUTE Agrihouse Foundation has launched the 13th Pre-harvest Agribusiness and Conference at its Training and Demonstration Centre in Bamvim, a suburb of Tamale in the Northern region. The launch brought together traditional rulers, farmer groups, representatives of organizations, the clergy and other stakeholders. The Northern Regional Minister, Alhaji Shaini Alhassan Shaibu who was the special guest of honor said the annual event has consistently provided a unique opportunity in showcasing the agricultural potential in the Northern region. He added that farmers learn from industry experts, network with various individuals and organizations. I am excited to witness the impact and continued growth of this event. We are certain this project will serve as a catalyst for fostering partnerships, driving technological advancements and unlocking the immense potential that lies within our regions agricultural sector. "As we are gathered here today, at Agrihouse Agri-village training and demonstration center, we are celebrating a great milestone. Agrihouse Foundation acquired this 10-acre land from the chief of Bamvim years ago and has now taken the bold step of developing this land into a demonstration and exhibition Centre here in the Northern region, he stated. According to him, the development of the field will be a game changer for the region, stressing that, the Pre-harvest activities on the field have always provided a platform for farmers to showcase their products, connect with buyers, and access new markets. He urged the leadership of the Agrihouse Foundation to focus this year's event on women empowerment. Women make invaluable contributions to the agricultural sector and will be of great benefit if they are trained and mentored. By equipping them with the necessary skills and resources, we aim to enhance their participation leadership, and economic independence in the agricultural value chain. Alhaji Shaini hoped that the annual event would become a premier agricultural event that attract participants across the country and beyond Ghana's borders. I hope to see an exponential increase in the number of farmers, women and youth benefit from the event as well as a significant boost in the value of business deals and partnerships forged during the Pre-harvest activities, I strongly believe that the Pre-harvest event is becoming a hub of innovation, where new technologies, practices, and ideas are shared and implemented. I hope and pray to see it becoming a mechanism for sustainable agricultural development, driving economic growth, and improving food security in our region and Ghana as a whole, he stressed. Some farmers who spoke to this reporter at the field commended organizers of the annual event for their consistency in making farming easier and lucrative. According to them, through the Pre-harvest Agribusiness and Exhibition Conference, they have been able to acquire knowledge, network and get access to buyers outside the region. Nigerian author Wole Soyinka's third novel, "Chronicles from the Land of the Happiest People on Earth", has been released in French. The Nobel laureate tells RFI about his inspiration behind the book, which takes place in an imaginary version of Nigeria. This novel is the fruit of a long lived experience. "Anger, frustration and also puzzlement" are how this book came about, Soyinka told RFI's Catherine Fruchon-Toussaint. Anger against the country's growing level of corruption and global dysfunction. "The title comes from external sources: I read one of these Gallup polls conducted around the world, one about which are the happiest people in the world," Soyinka explains. "I was astonished to find that Nigeria was among the top six, maybe even top three or four. So I started asking myself how we came to earn such an unlikely title. "That's the question I tried to answer in that work." The novel follows the adventures of Papa Davina, a wannabe guru who comes back from the United States and finds an unlikely following as the creator of his own religion. "They're fascinating characters, these Papa Davinas of the world whether they come from Christianity or Islam," Soyinka says. "They are really theatrical, even if it's as very bad theatre. The question is how people are so seduced with what, for me, is just an act." Facing such developments are two friends, a doctor and an engineer, Dr Menka and his oldest college friend, bon vivant and Yoruba royal, Duyole Pitan-Payne, trying to stay sane in a country on the verge of social explosion. With their adventures and dialogues, Soyinka tries to focus on the humane side of a morally collapsing society. Described by Nigerian-British poet and novelist Ben Okri as a "shocking story of political corruption in a country much like his homeland", the novel has already been lauded by the French press for its satirical elements mixing humour and horror. Born in 1934, Akinwande Oluwole Babatunde Soyinka was the first writer from the African continent to receive the Nobel Prize for Literature, which he was awarded in 1986. He grew in the pre-independence era when, as he told RFI, "religious conflicts were easily resolved inside communities". But corruption skyrocketed in Nigeria, to "an industry level". Since the mid-1960s, Soyinka's voice has brought the most caustic criticism against dictatorships and bad governance in his country, which can be read as universal fables as well. He has spent more than five decades using his writing to reflect, discuss and criticise the society around him in his native Nigeria, but also elsewhere in Africa and the rest of the world. It was first as a playwright that he managed to satire the social wrongs with works such as "The Invention" (1957), "The Swamp Dwellers"(1958), "The Lion and the Jewel" (1959), "My Father's Burden" (1960), and "Kongi's Harvest" (1965). Encouraged by the immense success of his first plays in London's theatre scene, Soyinka moved to the British capital and worked as a play reader for the Royal Court Theatre. He then returned to his homeland. What followed were essays, poetry, then memoirs, operas, short stories and two novels: "The Interpreters" (1965) and "Season of Anomy" (1973). A decade after Nigeria gained independence, Soyinka had became a well-known opposition figure. During the civil war, he was imprisoned for 22 months. An involved activist, Soyinka even tried to launch a party of "progressives" in the late 2000s, and remains preoccupied with political plagues such as corruption and manipulation of the masses. Soyinka has been involved with the Presence Africaine review for decades, meeting with other African intellectuals, writers and artists, especially from the French-speaking world, to exchange ideas on African cultures. From these exchanges, he kept a keen interest in other African languages and writing styles, including references coming from the French language as spoken in West Africa. Soyinka's latest novel is ripe with French words and expressions that reflect the reality of the streets of cities such as Lagos, where many French-speaking West Africans work and live. THE Okyenhene, His Royal Majesty Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, will on September 24, 2023 leave Ghana for the United States of America where he will deliver speeches to faculty members and students of two universities in Boston, Massachusetts. The Northeastern University and Worcester Polytechnic Institute have invited the Okyenhene on the back of the immense leadership role he plays in saving our world through the environment. Invitations An invitation letter signed by the Senior Vice Provost for Research of the Northeastern University, David Luzzi, said: Your commitment to addressing Climate Change and to advancing environmental sciences and sustainability aligns very well with the priorities of the University. We would be very pleased if you could visit our Boston campus, meet with students and faculty. Your commitment to addressing climate change and to advancing environmental sciences and sustainability aligns very well with the priorities of our university, an invitation letter signed by the Senior Vice President and Provos of Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Dr Winston Wole Soboyejo, also stated. Role of traditional leaders As the Heads of States and Government gather at the UN Headquarters in New York from September 18 to 19, 2023 to review the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals and follow it up with The Climate Ambition Summit, the Okyenhenes visit and speech will mark a significant moment in the ongoing global efforts to combat climate change. It will also offer a fresh perspective on the role of traditional leadership in environmental conservation. Leading by example as an environmental champion, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin has been making bold statements on the need to preserve nature and protect our forests and water bodies. Traditional leaders have played a vital role in African societies for centuries, guiding their communities in matters ranging from governance to resource management. The Okyenhene's decision to engage the university community on climate change reflects a growing recognition of the importance of traditional leaders in addressing modern challenges. During his address, the Okyenhene is expected to emphasise the interconnectedness of humans and the environment, drawing on His people's historical reverence for nature. He will also speak on how the Akyem Abuakwa Kingdom has long understood the need for a harmonious relationship with the land, recognising that the earth's health directly affects the well-being of its inhabitants. Topics Sharing his view on why the Okyenhene chose climate change as a topic of concern, the Chief of Staff of the Ofori Panin Fie, Nana Twumasi Ankrah, said: Osagyefuo has read the UNs Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) 2023 Synthesis Report released in March which passed a damning verdict on the nexus between human activities and climate change. He was particularly alarmed when the report concluded that the planet is heating up and And as a leader he cannot sit unconcerned. Mr Ankrah said one of the key takeaways from the Okyenhene's speech will be the importance of local initiatives in combating climate change. While international agreements and global policies are undoubtedly crucial, there is huge significance of grassroots efforts, he said. He indicated that the Okyenhene would also talk about the several local initiatives in His traditional area that serve as models for sustainable living, including developing an Eco- Park and vegetating a vast tract of barren land at Banso in the Atewa West District of the Eastern region. Akyem Abuakwa has been actively involved in reforestation efforts, recognizing that healthy forests are essential for mitigating climate change. By planting indigenous trees and protecting existing forests, the community is making a valuable contribution to carbon sequestration, he said. Call for action In his closing remarks, the Chief of Staff said His Royal Majesty is expected to issue a powerful call to action to the university community and the wider society. He will urge individuals, institutions and governments to take responsibility for their environmental impact and to work together to address climate change. He will also emphasise the importance of collaboration as no one entity or group can tackle this global challenge alone, he said. Mr Ankrah added that the Okyenhenes is also expected to serve as a reminder that leadership in the fight against climate change can come from unexpected places, in small ways. This momentous address will ignite a spark of hope, reminding us that even in the face of daunting challenges, positive change is possible when we unite for a common cause. Delegation The Okyenhene will be accompanied on his travel by the Akyem Abuakwa State Secretary, his Chief of Staff, some government officials, legal practitioners and some businessmen. He will return to Ghana later in October As the world faces an unprecedented number of refugees and a backlash grows in Europe, a top UN official is warning against the political push for quick fixes. Filippo Grandi, the UN high commissioner for refugees, said a model comes from what may be an unlikely source -- the war in Ukraine, which set off an exodus of refugees who were largely welcomed in Europe. Despite some dire warnings of the impact of Ukrainian refugees, the choices by European nations -- giving them access to schools, health care and employment and allowing freedom of movement -- "actually helped with social cohesion," Grandi told AFP. "It's a good lesson that inclusion, as opposed to exclusion, is a very good tool to sustain these responses," he said as world leaders met in New York for the UN General Assembly. Italy's southernmost island of Lampedusa has seen a major influx of migrants with some 8,500 people arriving between Monday and Wednesday last week. The European Union vowed action and Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini has called the arrivals an "act of war." Grandi, who is Italian, said: "There has been so much politicization of this." "Politicians need short fixes, they need slogans to say we are on top of it. "It doesn't work like that. We have to explain to public opinion that these are complex issues that require time, resources and different solutions," he said. "There is no 'invasion.' There is no 'catastrophe.' It is possible to do it, but countries have to work together," he said of addressing migration. Finding long-term solutions Migrants arrive in the harbor of the Italian island of Lampedusa before being transferred to Porto Empedocle in Sicily on September 15, 2023. By Alessandro SERRANO (AFP) The surge of migration to Lampedusa is coming largely from Africans traveling through Tunisia, where the economy has descended into tumult and racist violence has escalated as President Kais Saied rails against people from sub-Saharan Africa. The European Union, with strong backing from Italy, has pushed through a package of hundreds of millions of euros to Tunisia in return for stemming migration. But Grandi said that solutions lay "upstream" and that by the time people are "at the shores of Europe, it's almost too late." In addition to addressing root causes, Grandi called for more "safe, orderly channels" for migrants to enter Europe. "Many times they go and ask for asylum, even if they're not refugees, and this has created chaos and mismanagement," he said. Grandi also called for a more efficient Europe-wide system to rescue people at sea. "Many will disagree and maybe they will not listen to me," he said. "That's a basic duty of humanity -- to rescue people at sea." Talks planned in Geneva The UN High Commissioner for Refugees says that a record of more than 110 million people are displaced around the world. French President Emmanuel Macron greets United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi at the Elysee Palace on October 4, 2022. By Ludovic MARIN (AFP/File) People are fleeing not just into wealthy countries. Hundreds of thousands of Sudanese have fled fighting in recent months to Chad, one of the world's poorest countries, which Grandi visited this month. Despite rising needs, humanitarian aid budgets have been falling. The International Committee of the Red Cross and Red Crescent recently announced new job cuts due to shrinking funding. In December, Grandi will join French President Emmanuel Macron in leading the Global Refugee Forum in Geneva, a once-in-four-years event that aims to encourage good practices and cooperation. Grandi acknowledged that the talks came as countries were increasingly divided, including between the West and developing nations over the Ukraine war. But he said of the forum: "I think there's a lot of interest. But of course there are risks. The world is very polarized." "I'm hoping that this forum will be a moment of unity, not of division." Minister of Trade and Industry, KT Hammond, has disclosed that 126 projects are currently in operation under the governments One-District-One-Factory policy. According to him, about 300 established companies are also at the various stages of completion, actively taking part in the supply chain. Addressing the Ghana Industrial Summit and Exhibition 2023, on September 18, organised by the Association of Ghana Industries, KT Hammond, highlighted a number of direct and indirect jobs One-District-One-Factory has provided. Over 60% of the companies under the One-District-One Factory initiative operating under my ministry, are developing all, implementing similar programmes, which account for the bulk of their employment creation impact. As a result of this massive push for investment, and industrialisation, so far, about 300 1D1F projects are at various stages of implementation and over 160,000 direct and indirect jobs have been created. The total number of 1D1F projects in operation is now 126, we have about 300 established at various stages of operation and completion, which are actively producing and taking part in the supply chain under discussion today, we will say is 126, not doing badly at all. The Adansi-Asokwa MP remarked that 58 of the projects are fully owned by youth groups in the country. Out of about 143 1D1F projects in various stages of construction and plant acquisition, 58 are fully owned by the youth groups who have been mobilised to establish agro-based processing factories in the 58 respective districts. They are involved amongst other rice, maize, ginger, bamboo, cassava, mushroom processing chain, he stated. Through the ongoing implementation of the 1D1F program, the government aims to stimulate industrialization, boost local production, and enhance the overall economic landscape of the country. -citinewsroom The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Madam Jean Mensa has addressed the many criticisms directed at her office in relation to the ongoing Limited Voter Registration exercise. The EC on Tuesday, September 12, commenced the Limited Voter registration exercise at the District level and is expected to wrap it up on October 2. Since the exercise started, the EC has been accused of attempts to disenfranchise eligible voters. Some officials of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) have argued that this is why the EC is not doing the registration in the electoral areas. Addressing these allegations on Monday, September 18, EC Chair Jean Mensa said they are all false. She argued that the EC has no intention to disenfranchise eligible voters. She said after the ongoing exercise, there will be several other registration exercises to ensure all eligible voters get the opportunity to secure a voter ID card. What is baffling is that the very same people who are accusing us of trying to disenfranchise eligible voters were silent in 2016 when the commission instituted registration in the district offices ahead of the presidential and parliamentary election. I take this opportunity to urge the good citizens of Ghana not to believe everything they hear. The allegations being made against us including accusations of working to disenfranchise eligible voters, to sending faulty kits to the stronghold of a specific political party are false, Madam Jean Mensa stressed. In her address to the media, the EC Chair disclosed that after six days of the ongoing Limited Registration exercise, her outfit has managed to register 182,831 eligible voters across the country. President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has urged countries in the global south to develop their own technology. He argued that the history of humanity and prevailing development trends testified to the significance of technology at all levels of socio-economic advancement. Addressing the G77+China Summit of the Heads of State and Government Summit, in Havana, Cuba, President Akufo-Addo said it was unfortunate that most developing countries lacked the means and capacity to create new knowledge. That challenge had been compounded by the reluctance of endowed countries of the north to lend themselves to transferring technology and innovation willingly, he noted. Those countries, he explained, were not keen to finance the building of science infrastructure for developing countries, thereby denying the latter the benefits of science, technology, and innovation. We cannot, however, allow this reality to defeat us. We must find our own means to develop our own technology. Others have done so, we can too, he said. G77+China is the largest intergovernmental organisation of developing countries in the United Nations (UN). It provides the means for the countries of the south to articulate, promote and advance their collective economic interests and cooperation for development. The theme for this year's Summit was Current Development Challenges: The Role of Science, Technology and Innovation. The event was attended by delegations from more than 100 countries, including over 30 Heads of State and Government. Highlighting the challenges faced by countries in the global south, the Summit underscored the need for a more balanced international order with greater attention to the nations. In the final declaration of the meeting, the delegates urged international institutions to support developing countries in areas like science, technology, and innovation. The Summit is expected to help boost the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. President Nana Akufo-Addo said new inventions and innovations, as well as creative tools and processes, were the measures of human progress. As a result, developing nations are expected to invest more in research and technology for sustainable growth. Meanwhile, the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, speaking at the Summits opening ceremony, said the voice of the Group of 77 and China would always be essential for the UN system. Terming the group a champion of multilateralism, he called on the countries and China to promote a system based on equality a system ready to reverse centuries of injustice and neglect and deliver for all humanity, not just the privileged. First established in 1964, G77 now has over 130 members, with its chairmanship rotating among member countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America based on regional principles. GNA ASA Savings and Loans Ltd on Friday, September 15, embarked on another act of benevolence by making a donation of equipment to the SDA Hospital in Obuasi in the Ashanti Region. The items donated include 4 pieces of Tray with cover, 6 pieces of Receiver, 6 pieces of Gallipot, 4 pieces of Epistomy scissors, 4 pieces of cord scissors, 1 piece of adult weighing scale, 2 pieces of Doppler, 6 pieces of Antery forceps, 6 pieces of needle holder, 2 pieces of Digital BP machine, 10pieces of bedsheets, and 4 (240liters) waste bins. While the health equipment is to support the hospital in the delivery of healthcare, the waste bins in particular were donated to help the segregation of waste at the facility and also to improve the general sanitation conditions. According to ASA Savings and Loans Area Manager for Obuasi Mr. Samuel Odame Sekyi who presented the equipment to the SDA Hospital in Obuasi, the gesture is part of the companys Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities. He was joined by Branch Manager Mr. Richard Owusu to present the equipment to the hospital. Speaking to the media after receiving the equipment, Dr. Adrian Mike Agyen, the medical director of SDA Hospital praised ASA Savings and Loans for such a timely intervention. He said for a hospital that receives a large number of patients periodically, this equipment will help in many ways to take care of patients. On behalf of the staff, the management, and the board of the hospital I would like to thank the management of ASA Savings and Loans for choosing us this morning to make this very big donation to our hospital. For the patients and us the staff we are very grateful to receive all these items from your outfit and we pray that God will replenish whatever you spent to make this donation so that in further you will continue to be of assistance to us, Dr. Adrian Mike Agyen. The SDA Hospital in Obuasi is just one of a number of hospitals that have received help from ASA Savings and Loans this year. This is just one of the many interventions being undertaken by the company to give back to the communities where it operates. "ACWA Power is committed to contribute the energy transition under Vision 2030, and we believe that our partnership with Chinese companies is essential to this effort as they have played a significant role in the development of renewable energy in Saudi Arabia," added Abunayyan. ACWA Power has a history of fruitful collaborations with Chinese companies such as installing the largest wind turbine in Central Asia with China Energy Engineering Corporation (CEEC); awarding the EPC contract for Rabigh 4 desalination project with a consortium of Power China, SEPCOIII, and WETICO; the agreement to spur innovation in local renewable energy and storage development with Huawei Digital Power, and signing a series of MoU agreements with nine renowned Chinese entities, including China Southern Power Grid International Company, during the 1st China Arab Summit. ASA Savings and Loans Ltd as part of efforts to support education has made a donation to Ablekuma Anglican Cluster of Schools and Kwabenya M/A 1 Basic School. On Thursday, September 14, the company donated 10 pieces of dual desks, 10 pieces of mono desks, two 240liters waste bins, and a multi-purpose printer to the Ablekuma Anglican Cluster of Schools located in the Ga Central Municipality to support the teaching and learning at the school. The headmistress of the school, Madam Jennifer Muriel Hammond was happy and stressed how the bins were going to improve on sanitation in the school as currently the school has over 3000 pupils. She praised ASA Savings and Loans for such a donation and prayed for more in the near future. The branch manager at the Ablekuma branch ASA, Madam Lucy Amoako assured of the companys continued support by giving back to society. At Kwabenya MA 1 school, a total of 27 mono and dual desks, and a high-resolution projector to enhance ICT teaching and learning were donated. Mr. Samir Sani, the area manager and Mr. James Marley, the branch manager of the Kwabenya branch of ASA Savings and Loans led the presentation of the items to the school. Mr. James Marley admonished the school authorities to maintain the items for it to fully achieve its intended purpose. Madam Wasila Hashim, the headmistress of Kwabenya MA 1 Basic School expressed gratitude to ASA Savings and Loans for the support and asked for more such donations from the general public. Im highly grateful to ASA Savings and Loans for the heartwarming gesture they have given to us. In fact, it has come at the right time to help the school to enhance teaching and learning. We are going to make good use of it, she assured. According to Mr. Richard Nartey who is the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) manager for ASA Savings and Loans, the company has invested a lot to give back to society this year. In the many CSR activities undertaken by the company, it has given support to hospitals, organised free eye and health screening exercises in many parts of the country, and donated to schools as well. American Consumer News, LLC dba MarketBeat 2010-2023. All rights reserved. 2023 Market data provided is at least 10-minutes delayed and hosted by Barchart Solutions. Information is provided 'as-is' and solely for informational purposes, not for trading purposes or advice, and is delayed. To see all exchange delays and terms of use please see Barchart's disclaimer. 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. China Literature Limited, an investment holding company, operates an online literature platform in the People's Republic of China. The company promotes intellectual properties primarily through its online literature platforms, such as QQ Reading and Qidian; and New Classics Media, a film and TV drama series production house. It is also involved in the self-operated channels business. In addition, the company collaborates with third-party partners for distribution and development of IP content, as well as offers online paid reading and content adaptations. Further, it provides reading, copyright commercialization, and writer cultivation and brokerage services; and operates text work reading and related open platform through technology methods and digital media, including personal computers, Internet, and mobile network. Additionally, the company engages in the production and distribution of television series, web series, and films; licensing and distribution of film and television properties; licensing copyrights; sale of physical books; and operation of in-house online games, etc. The company was founded in 2002 and is headquartered in Shanghai, the People's Republic of China. China Literature Limited is a subsidiary of Tencent Holdings Limited. Shaftesbury Capital PLC ("Shaftesbury Capital") is the leading central London mixed-use REIT and is a constituent of the FTSE-250 Index. Our property portfolio, valued at 4.9 billion at June 2023, extends to 2.9 million square feet of lettable space across the most vibrant areas of London's West End. With a diverse mix of restaurants, cafes, bars, shops, residential and offices, our destinations include the high footfall, thriving neighbourhoods of Covent Garden, Carnaby, Soho and Chinatown, together with holdings in Fitzrovia. Our properties are close to the main West End Underground stations and transport hubs for the Elizabeth Line. Shaftesbury Capital shares are listed on the London Stock Exchange (primary) and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (secondary). Canadian Utilities Limited, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the electricity, natural gas, and retail energy businesses in the United States, Australia, and internationally. It operates through Utilities, Energy Infrastructure, and Corporate & Other segments. The Utilities segment provides regulated electricity transmission and distribution services in northern and central east Alberta, the Yukon, and the Northwest Territories; and integrated natural gas transmission and distribution services in Alberta, the Lloydminster area of Saskatchewan, and Western Australia. It owns and operates approximately 9,100 kilometers of natural gas pipelines, 16 compressor sites, approximately 3,700 receipt and delivery points, and a salt cavern natural gas storage peaking facility located near Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta in Canada. The Energy Infrastructure segment provides electricity generation, natural gas storage, industrial water, and related infrastructure development solutions in Alberta, the Yukon, the Northwest Territories, Australia, Mexico, and Chile. The Corporate & Other segment retails electricity and natural gas in Alberta. Canadian Utilities Limited was incorporated in 1927 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada. Canadian Utilities Limited is a subsidiary of ATCO Ltd. Schroders plc is a publicly owned investment manager. The firm also provides advisory and consultancy services. It provides its services to financial institutions, high net worth clients, large corporate, local authority, charitable entities, individuals, pension plans, government funds, insurance companies, and endowments. The firm launches and manages equity mutual funds and manages fixed income mutual funds for its clients. It also manages hedge for its clients. The firm invests in the public equity, fixed income, and alternative investment markets across the globe. The firm's alternative investments include real estate markets, emerging market debt, commodities and agriculture funds, funds of hedge funds and private equity funds of funds. It conducts an in-house research to make its investments. Schroders plc was founded on 1804 and is headquartered in London, United Kingdom. Suzano S.A. produces and sells eucalyptus pulp and paper products in Brazil and internationally. It operates through Pulp and Paper segments. The company offers coated and uncoated printing and writing papers, paperboards, tissue papers, and market and fluff pulps; and lignin. It also engages in the research, development, and production of biofuel; operation of port terminals; power generation and distribution business; commercialization of equipment and parts; industrialization, commercialization, and exporting of pulp and standing wood; road freight transport; biotechnology research and development; and commercialization of paper and computer materials. In addition, the company is involved in the business office, production packaging, and financial fundraising activities; research, development, production, commercialization, and distribution of wood-based textile fibers, yarns, and filaments produced from cellulose and microfibrillated cellulose; and research and development of wood raw materials for the textile industry. Suzano S.A. was formerly known as Suzano Papel e Celulose S.A. and changed its name to Suzano S.A. in April 2019. The company was founded in 1924 and is headquartered in Salvador, Brazil. - Second-quarter earnings - Advancement of renewable energy, electric vehicles to achieve goals - City of Madison's growing fleet of electric buses The newsletter is available on MGE Energy's website at: http://www.mgeenergy.com/insideview Inside View is published periodically to provide investors with information about MGE Energy and its primary subsidiary, Madison Gas and Electric. About MGE Energy MGE Energy is an investor-owned public utility holding company headquartered in the state capital of Madison, Wis. It is the parent company of Madison Gas and Electric, which generates and distributes electricity in Dane County, Wis., and purchases and distributes natural gas in seven south-central and western Wisconsin counties. MGE Energy's assets total approximately $2.5 billion, and its 2022 revenues were approximately $715 million. you are here: 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 Abhishek Sahu covers HR and Education (Careers) at Moneycontrol. He can be reached at Abhishek.Sahu@nw18.com and @Abhishek44sahu. Santosh Nair is Executive Editor, Special Projects, Moneycontrol. He has been writing on the financial markets for over two decades, having previously worked with Business Standard, myiris.com, Crisil Market Wire and The Economic Times. He is also the author of the popular book on Indian markets, Bulls, Bears and Other Beasts. The foundation of this partnership is a long-term power purchase agreement, with Wolverine committing to purchase up to two-thirds of the carbon-free power generated by the Palisades Nuclear Power Plant for its Michigan-based member rural electric cooperatives. Wolverine's non-profit rural electric cooperative project partner, Hoosier Energy, will purchase the balance. "We are thrilled to enter into this partnership," said Kelly Trice, President of Holtec Nuclear Generation and Decommissioning. "The executed power purchase agreement represents a significant milestone in our journey towards reopening the plant, a historic moment for Michigan and the country. The repowering of Palisades ensures Michigan has sufficient energy to meet future demand and mitigate the impact of climate change, while creating hundreds of high-paying Michigan jobs, expanding the local tax base, and unleashing economic opportunity within the region and beyond. With key support from federal partners, Governor Whitmer, the Michigan legislature, and the local plant community, this will soon be a reality." Wolverine's member rural electric cooperatives provide electricity to rural homes, businesses, and public schools across more than half of Michigan's lower peninsula, with a power supply portfolio that is already 60% carbon-free. This agreement will further enhance Wolverine and its members' leadership in carbon-free energy and their commitment to delivering reliable, affordable, and clean power to their communities well into the future. "Ensuring reliable and affordable electricity in Michigan is crucial," said Eric Baker, CEO of Wolverine. "The restart of Palisades offers a practical, long-term solution to electric reliability in our state and aligns with Michigan's ambitious goals to reduce carbon emissions." Following Holtec's acquisition of the Palisades Nuclear Power Plant in June 2022, after the May 2022 shutdown, the plant is now on track to become the first successfully restarted nuclear power plant in the United States, thanks to the strong support it has received from its community, state, and federal partners. Palisades has a proven history of safe and reliable operations, operating in the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission's (NRC's) highest safety category, completing consecutive record-breaking production runs prior to early shutdown, and being recognized within the industry as a high performing plant. In early 2023, Holtec submitted an application with the U.S. Department of Energy's Loan Programs Office for federal loan funding to repower Palisades. The company is working cooperatively with the Department to move the loan application process forward. Holtec has also participated in several constructive public meetings with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission staff to discuss the proposed regulatory path to reauthorize operations at Palisades within the agency's existing regulatory framework. The repowering of the Palisades Nuclear Power Plant will greatly enhance electric reliability by generating consistent and carbon-free energy in Michigan. It also will decrease Michigan's reliance on energy imports. During operation, 600 Michigan residents were employed full-time at Palisades in highly-skilled jobs with an average salary of $117,000. The plant brought an additional 1,000 specialty workers into the local community every 18 months to support scheduled refueling and maintenance. During operation, Palisades paid more than $10 million in property taxes every year to support local schools, law enforcement, fire protection, parks, libraries, and other community resources, making it one of the largest taxpayers in Van Buren County. The Economic Growth Institute at the University of Michigan concluded in an economic assessment recently published in August 2023 that the early closure of Palisades resulted in the loss (direct, indirect, and induced) of 739 jobs and over $259 million in output within Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties alone. Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Eastern Finland's lagging behind Western Finland in green transition and renewable energy investments has been discussed in the media in recent days. Fingrid has received its share of comments and it has been suggested that wind power is concentrated on the west coast because Fingrid first strengthens the network in the area. This is not true. We need customer investment decisions and concrete projects before we can plan and build a network. In Western Finland, electricity network strengthening is now progressing rapidly, because the planned connections in the area have progressed to concrete projects. There have been enough of these projects so that Fingrid has its hands full of work. Fingrid invests more than ever in the development of the main grid, and we are ready for a similar effort also in Eastern Finland. We are ready to supplement our investment program as our customers have sufficiently advanced connection needs. The main grid cannot be built on the basis of guesswork. We are constantly making rough electricity network plans for the future in Eastern Finland, but we can only proceed when we know what kind of transmission lines and substation locations are needed to connect new electricity production and consumption. We are ready to supplement our investment program as our customers have sufficiently advanced connection needs. The main grid cannot be built on the basis of guesswork; it would not be sensible in terms of land use or society. The latest draft of the main grid development plan has been open for comments until the end of August. I can promise that we will carefully review all the comments received. We also work continuously with regional councils and define our anticipated connection needs, which are taken to plans as customer locations and needed routes become clear. However, including a project in our development plan requires customer connections. It is good to remember that implementing a power line with permits takes a total of about 7-8 years, and work cannot be started without the above-mentioned concreteness. Wind power projects in Finland from prescreening to production phase. See the real-time map in Finnish Wind Power Associations web page. Pallavi Singhal is a Correspondent at Moneycontrol.com covering commerce, agriculture and education. With a total experience of four years, she has reported on varied subjects covering crime, courts, civic affairs, health & politics. Human interest and feature stories have always piqued her interest. The signing was held during the 14th edition of Brazil Windpower, the largest wind energy event in Latin America, which was held this week in Sao Paulo. "This is another partnership that is in line with Neoenergia's strategy. We are protagonists of the energy transition in Brazil. We believe that new business opportunities are guided by decarbonization, innovation and the development of new technologies to generate clean, safe and reliable energy," said Eduardo Capelastegui, CEO of Neoenergia. Capelastegui argued that the first step towards the growth of the offshore wind energy market in Brazil is the definition of a regulatory framework for the new segment. "This is fundamental for the development of the industrial chain with added value and the valuation of the socio-environmental attributes of the source. We also consider that the framework will be important for legal and regulatory certainty and predictability for investors," he added. The governor of Rio Grande do Norte, Fatima Bezerra, stated that the signing of the memorandum of understanding with Neoenergy is part of a sequence of unfolding conversations and meetings with the company. "It has always been our intention to keep Rio Grande do Norte in the Brazilian leadership in the production of clean energy, and this will happen through mutual interests, such as what the Neoenergia Group has demonstrated through the exchange of information and technical missions involving Neoenergia teams and those of the State Government. Therefore, this memorandum will be very important for us to segment these conversations, especially for the development of offshore projects, in addition to logistical support for port infrastructure," emphasized Governor Fatima Bezerra. This is already the fourth signing of a memorandum of understanding carried out by Neoenergia for the development of offshore wind projects in the country. The company is conducting studies to assess the feasibility of developing offshore wind projects in the states of Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande do Sul and Ceara. Neoenergia has a pioneering legacy in the development of wind power generation in Rio Grande do Norte. The company has 11 wind farms in the state: Calango, Mel, Arizona and Rio do Fogo, which started operating in 2006. Through Neoenergia Cosern, the company serves approximately 1.5 million customers in the distribution segment. Currently, Neoenergia has 5.2 GW of installed generation capacity, 90% of which is renewable energy, and is implementing an additional 200 MW with the completion of the onshore wind farms. To find out more about Neoenergia's current affairs, visit the Neoenergia Communication Room. * Neoenergia, S.A. is indirectly owned by Iberdrola, S.A. with a 50% + 1 share. Srinath Sridharan is Author, Policy Researcher & Corporate Advisor, Twitter: @ssmumbai. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication. Daily and weekly insights bundled and sent to your inbox to keep you ahead in the race. Exclusive access to live webinars from market experts on trading and investment strategies Have a Global edge with access to content from world renowned experts and journalist Access to 230+ exclusive stories per month from our editorial and Experts Limited Period offer on Moneycontrol PRO. Subscribe to PRO and get up to Access the exclusive stories, weekly investment ideas and daily technical calls in an Ad free experience In this edition of Moneycontrol Pro Panorama: How Cipla built a billion-dollar business in US, Indias economic ascent explained... In some ways, one could call this a part-nationalisation of Tata Steels UK steel business. Strictly speaking, its not because the government is only giving a grant and not taking an equity stake, but the grant will come with some commitments attached that serve to help the governments objectives. These need to be assessed when they become known. One objective is to retain primary steel capacity within the UK as a strategic asset and another will be saving jobs. The... USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Namrata Hasija is a Research Fellow with the Centre for China Analysis and Strategy and her primary area of interest is Chinese foreign policy and India-Taiwan relations. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has congratulated the musical community of Azerbaijan on the occasion of the 90th anniversary of composer Arif Malikov and the National Music Day. The letter reads: I congratulate the Azerbaijani music community, all fans of music on the occasion of September 18, National Music Day. This cultural holiday has been celebrated solemnly every year since 1995 in our country at the initiative of Great Leader Heydar Aliyev on the birthday of our brilliant composer Uzeyir Hajibayli. This year's National Music Day is also marked by the celebration of the 90th anniversary of the birth of Arif Malikov, one of the brightest figures of Azerbaijani culture, an outstanding composer, People's Artist of the USSR and the Republic of Azerbaijan. Arif Malikov worthily continued the bright creative traditions of the generation of artists that Azerbaijani culture left behind and wrote new pages in the annals of our national music. The works created by this composer in the most diverse genres of music are included in the golden fund of Azerbaijani culture. The richness and variety of themes, the unique style formed in the unity of national musical traditions and new thinking, the rich content and deep emotional, psychological and philosophical expression of images are characteristic features of Arif Malikov's legacy. Arif Malikov was a great person who devoted himself to Azerbaijan throughout his life and loved it from the bottom of his heart. His truly intellectual and civic position, his devotion and commitment to his nation and his loyalty to his state earned him the love of all Azerbaijanis. The composer's masterpiece is the ballet The Legend of Love based on the libretto of the famous Turkish poet Nazim Hikmet. Considered one of the pearls of the 20th century world ballet music, this piece decorated popular theater stages for more than half a century and represents one of the great achievements of our musical culture. The Legend of Love ballet, first staged at the Mariinsky Theater in St. Petersburg in 1961, was later performed in more than 60 countries and brought the author world fame. It is gratifying that the Legend of Love ballet, considered the peak of the composer's career, is staged in the author's homeland again with the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation after a long break. Arif Malikov's legacy represents the cultural wealth of the Azerbaijani people. Arif Malikov's music, which meets the requirements of high art and calls for spiritual perfection, will live forever. Bonds:Confidence buoyedby robust momentum Premier Li Qiang reaffirmed on Sunday Beijing's commitment to a neighborhood policy of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness in bolstering ties with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, calling for a closer bond of interests between China and the 10-nation regional group. The country stands ready to scale up the imports of unique and high-quality products from ASEAN member states and to expand the trading scale of intermediate goods, Li said while addressing the opening of the 20th China-ASEAN Expo and the China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit. The expo, which is being held in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, from Sunday through Tuesday, has brought together nearly 2,000 businesses from over 40 countries. "For both sides to attain greater development, China and ASEAN must engage in cooperation based on the principles of mutual benefit and reciprocity, forge a tighter network of shared interests and elevate our cooperation to a higher level," Li told ASEAN leaders and representatives from the business community. Trade between China and ASEAN grew by 11.2 percent year-on-year to $975.3 billion in 2022, and the two sides have been each other's largest trading partner for three consecutive years since 2020. The premier highlighted the need to tap into the potential of new international land and sea trade routes, continuously enhance regional connectivity, establish various cooperation demonstration zones, and explore cooperation in emerging areas such as green and low-carbon initiatives as well as the digital economy. Beijing will remain unwavering in its support for an ASEAN-centered regional cooperation framework and will enable a better alignment between the Belt and Road Initiative and the development strategies of ASEAN countries, he said. Negotiations on version 3.0 of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area are now progressing smoothly, and China stands ready to expedite the talks, he said. Li highlighted the China-ASEAN Year of People-to-People Exchanges in 2024 as a key opportunity to expand cooperation over culture, tourism and youth, and to enhance mutual understanding. The premier also assured the business leaders that Beijing will forge ahead with institutional opening-up, make greater strides in intellectual rights protection and promote fair competition. Addressing the opening ceremony of the expo, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said that ASEAN and China can "show the world examples of tangible benefits of strengthening multilateral cooperation without leaning toward protectionism, unilateralism or economic nationalism". Hun Manet said that ASEAN and China need to reinforce cooperation and interdependence "by further opening markets and improving connectivity, supply chain resilience, supply-link production capacity and trade facilitation". The Cambodian leader, who is making his first visit to China after taking office last month, said: "We need to work together to promote two-way investment. In addition, we should strengthen technical support, especially in complying with market requirements and demands." Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said his country has adopted technologies from both the West and China, and Huawei in particular, in the deployment of 5G. He said Malaysia made the decisions "without being threatened or pressured because we work based on trust and confidence of centuries of relationships". Anwar appealed for collective efforts of ASEAN and China to focus on regional peace and prosperity, and foster bilateral and multilateral trade relations. "I am optimistic that the expo will continue to serve as a catalyst for our businesses, fostering great collaboration and stimulating economic recovery." The robust momentum of cooperation between China and ASEAN has also buoyed the confidence of business leaders at the Nanning expo. Lu Yimin, general manager of China General Technology (Group) Holding, said that Li's speech on Sunday showed the way for China and ASEAN "to adhere to openness and inclusiveness to build a friendly and sustainable partnership and uphold mutual benefit and win-win outcomes". Lu said his company will continue to deepen cooperation with ASEAN member states in green and low-carbon development, circular economy and healthcare. Li Dongchun, senior director of the international business center at Guangxi Liugong Machinery, said the expo and the summit have offered the company a good platform for international communication and client exploration. "Over the past two decades, we have developed local partners across the 10 ASEAN member states. Our performance in the ASEAN markets is getting better and better," he said. Daily and weekly insights bundled and sent to your inbox to keep you ahead in the race. Exclusive access to live webinars from market experts on trading and investment strategies Have a Global edge with access to content from world renowned experts and journalist Access to 230+ exclusive stories per month from our editorial and Experts Limited Period offer on Moneycontrol PRO. Subscribe to PRO and get up to Access the exclusive stories, weekly investment ideas and daily technical calls in an Ad free experience In this edition of Moneycontrol Pro Panorama: How Cipla built a billion-dollar business in US, Indias economic ascent explained... Highlights China's ruling Communist party is spreading Xi Jinping Thought with the same fervour that they did with Mao Zedong's Little Red Book in the seventies Millions of people including finance and technology professionals are being forced to study the new ideology Xi believes in a political economy that allows greater power to state-owned enterprises and rejects Western capitalism The disappearance of the defence minister has raised questions about Xi's political management At a time when the world of business is gravely concerned over... USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Daily and weekly insights bundled and sent to your inbox to keep you ahead in the race. Exclusive access to live webinars from market experts on trading and investment strategies Have a Global edge with access to content from world renowned experts and journalist Access to 230+ exclusive stories per month from our editorial and Experts Limited Period offer on Moneycontrol PRO. Subscribe to PRO and get up to Access the exclusive stories, weekly investment ideas and daily technical calls in an Ad free experience In this edition of Moneycontrol Pro Panorama: How Cipla built a billion-dollar business in US, Indias economic ascent explained... Andrew Edgecliffe-Johnson, Silin Chen and Anjli Raval Andrew* is a 63-year-old partner in a small consultancy in England who finds himself with too much free time and too little cash. Shambo, a 32-year-old associate management consultant in India, has the opposite complaint: his hours have increased dramatically as clients demand more work for the same fees. Sierra, a 23-year-old associate in New York is feeling horrible pressure to perform so she is not laid off. The experiences of these workers illustrate the... Sep 18, 2023 / 03:15 PM ISTAll Rights Reserved. FT and Financial Times are trademarks of the Financial Times Limited Not to be redistributed, copied or modified in any way. USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept Premier Li Qiang stressed China's readiness to bolster Belt and Road cooperation and uphold the centrality of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in regional affairs during separate meetings with leaders of Laos, Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia over the weekend. Li was in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, to attend and address the opening ceremony of the 20th China-ASEAN Expo and the China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit on Sunday. In Nanning, he met with Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Indonesian Vice-President Ma'ruf Amin on Saturday. He met with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Sunday. During the meeting with Sonexay, Li said that China is willing to continue with the high-quality construction of the Belt and Road with Laos and promote the continuous improvement of bilateral cooperation. Both sides should further unleash the potential of the China-Laos Railway in spurring the development of both countries, Li said, adding that China supports Laos in enhancing its domestic development capabilities. The premier expressed China's willingness to import more high-quality Lao products and strengthen people-to-people exchanges to promote mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples. He pledged support to Laos as the rotating chair of ASEAN next year, saying that Beijing stands ready to work with Laos to push forward with the building of a community with a shared future between China and ASEAN. Sonexay expressed appreciation for China's support for the socioeconomic growth of Laos, saying that his country firmly adheres to the one-China principle and supports Beijing in safeguarding its core interests. During talks with the Vietnamese prime minister, Li said that China stands ready to import more high-quality Vietnamese products that are suitable for the Chinese market, explore the upgrading of border ports and accelerate the construction of smart ports to facilitate trade between the two countries. Li called upon both sides to strengthen cooperation over rail connectivity and key minerals and jointly forge a system of mutually beneficial, stable and unimpeded industrial and supply chains. Both sides should adhere to dialogue and consultation to manage differences and work together firmly to uphold fairness and justice, Li said. Pham Minh Chinh said that Vietnam and China are comrades and brothers, and the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between Hanoi and Beijing is Vietnam's oldest, highest-level and most prioritized foreign relationship. Vietnam's development of foreign relations will not harm the interests of third parties, and his country adheres to the one-China principle and supports China's development, he said. While meeting with Indonesian Vice-President Ma'ruf Amin, Li said that Beijing and Jakarta must prioritize cooperation over initiatives including Regional Comprehensive Economic Corridor and the "Two Countries, Twin Parks", and seek closer exchanges, and cooperation in education, culture, tourism, youth and sports. China is also willing to strengthen multilateral cooperation with Indonesia, jointly uphold the unity and centrality of ASEAN, and maintain the correct direction of East Asian cooperation, he added. The Indonesian leader expressed readiness to deepen bilateral cooperation in economy, trade and people-to-people exchanges and enhance coordination and mutual support in regional and multilateral affairs. During the talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Sunday, Li highlighted China's readiness to better align development strategies, continue with the high-quality building of Belt and Road and ensure the sound implementation of landmark cooperation projects. Bloomberg reported that almost 20 defense technology executives plan meetings on Monday with Biden administration officials, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and other lawmakers to push for speedier military procurement and more investment in pioneering technologies, steps they say are necessary to ensure the United States maintains its innovating edge over China. In another development, in an open letter to US Congress, leaders of defense technology companies, including Palantir, Anduril, Epirus, and 16 others, expressed deep concern about the rapid technological advancements made by China and what they view as its increased aggressiveness. The letter, issued by Jacob Helberg, commissioner of the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission, emphasizes the importance of the US maintaining technological superiority and innovation in order to deter potential conflicts and expresses support for government actions to accelerate the development and adoption of advanced military technology. It is the China threat peddled by some China hawks in Washington that has stoked the systemic China paranoia in the industry, military and economic circles in the US. These moves come in the wake of the launch of Huawei's new smartphone, whose release early this month caught attention of the world. The 7-nanometer Kirin 9000s chips used in the phones have been confirmed to be manufactured by China's Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp. That has obviously dumbfounded those who believed that the US' technology sanctions against Chinese tech companies, especially Huawei, would exert a stranglehold on the development of the country's technology, the development of advanced chips in particular. It is believed that China has the technology to produce at least a limited quantity of chips five years behind the cutting-edge ones, indicating that it is inching closer to its objective of semiconductor self-sufficiency. The message is clear that Washington's tech export controls targeting China are not that successful. Given the considerable profits US semiconductor companies have suffered because of the export control measures, the sanctions the Joe Biden administration has imposed against China have achieved much less than expected. If Washington continues to have the export controls in place or even tightens them as some have suggested, US semiconductor companies will continue to suffer heavy losses, and their reduced returns from sales will make it less possible for them to invest in the further development of their technologies. That might prove to be a vicious cycle impeding their future development, to say nothing of the disruption the controls do to the global supply chains. Washington's attempted controls on exports of technologies to China will only function as a spur to the determination and enthusiasm of China to develop the core technologies on its own. Engagement would better benefit the US, and China, as well as the world at large. PM Pham Minh Chinh concludes his trip to China to attend the 20th China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) and China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit (CABIS) in Nanning city, China's Guangxi province. (Photo: VNA) While in Nanning, the PM attended and delivered a speech at the opening ceremony of the 20th CAEXPO and CABIS, visited exhibition areas and trade pavilions of Vietnam and other participating countries, and joined official activities within the framework of the expo and the summit. PM Pham Minh Chinh also had meetings with leaders of China and Guangxi province and received representatives from leading Chinese and ASEAN businesses to promote investment, production, and business cooperation. The business trip contributes to enhancing political trust and strengthening bilateral relations between Vietnam and China; promotes practical cooperation, especially in economics and trade, between Vietnam and China in general and between Vietnamese localities and Chinas Guangxi in particular. At the CAEXPO, Vietnam is the country with the largest number of booths and display area in ASEAN, only after host country China. This is an opportunity for Vietnamese goods to access the markets of China and ASEAN countries, contributing to regional economic cooperation and growth, thereby making a positive contribution to the ASEAN-China comprehensive strategic partnership./. We have a special guest contributor for todays Money Morning. Hear from Nick Hubble, Editor and Investment Director of Jim Rickards Strategic Intelligence. In this article, Nick continues our recent conversation topic energy. Digesting uncooked food takes a lot of energy. Cooking is all about improving how much energy we get per unit of energy spent chewing and digesting. This is known as energy return on energy invested (EROI). The trouble is, our renewable energy boom is reducing our EROI. And that means well be poorer. A few years ago, I ate some raw chickenon purpose. The tour guide assured me that the slathering of wasabi made it safe. Not to mention the chickens Japanese nationality implied its general cleanliness. I took one look at my travel companion, who happened to be a former compliance officer of Fat Tail, and popped the chicken heart infollowed by limited efforts to chew. It tasted like raw chicken with wasabi, funnily enough. My experience begs the question, why dont we do this all the time? Why do we bother to cook food at all? Enter food historian Rachel Laudan, author of Cuisine and Empire: Cooking in World History. Heres how she explained it on the podcast Econtalk: It takes a huge amount of energy to digest food. So that when you cook, what you are essentially doing is outsourcing digesting chewing and digesting into the kitchen. And doing it previously. And that saves a lot of energy for the humans who are lucky enough to eat the cooked food. Believe it or not, this simple explanation blows renewable energy out of the sky. Because the energy transition attempts to reverse the same sort of gains we made when we began to cook food Cooking is about outsourcing part of the energy demand of fuelling yourself with food, which is really just energy. And cooking is a more efficient overall energy system than eating raw food. It reduces the overall amount of energy used and maximises the amount of energy created. Especially when someone else is doing the cooking for you This is quite a claim, when you think about it. I mean, cooking is quite labour (energy) intensive. As is gathering the fuel to do the cooking (more energy). And then theres putting up with the person actually doing the cooking, if you forget to thank them for all their hard workwhile doing the dishes. All of this adds up to a lot of effort (energy) relative to the energy you get from the cooked food as a result. But I can vouch that digesting raw chicken hearts is hard work too. Emotionally and in terms of energy expended in digesting. Especially if you dont chew properly. Its not just cooking, of course. Consider bread. Its a royal pain in the neck to make. The amount of energy spent in growing, harvesting and grinding for flour is immense before you even begin baking. And yet, the food it creates is so energy efficient that its worth it. (According to Laudan, grains make food storage and transport incredibly energy efficient.) Worth it, in this context, means that the amount of food (energy) created is more than the amount of energy used up in creating it. How much more? Energy analysts call this Energy Return on energy Invested (EROI). Heres how former Cambridge researcher Michael Kelly explained the idea: If a cheetah goes chasing a rabbit, and it ends up consuming more of its own energy than it gets by eating the rabbit when it catches it, its long term future is not assured. If that cheetah is supporting a family, then the ratio of energy [consumed relative to generated] had better not be 1 to 1 it had better be 5 or 6 to 1. [] If were going to have nice things in society, we need to make sure that the amount of energy we use to produce a barrel of oil is 1/14 of the amount of energy in that barrel of oil. [] Its called energy return on energy invested. The lesson here is that life is about the energy efficiency of getting more energy. In the broadest sense, this includes reliability, storage, cost and plenty more. The more efficient our energy system, the more we can get out of less. If we have to expend vast amounts of energy in generating energy, we get poorer, because theres less left over for what we want to use it on. The act of cooking may have been our first energy transition a global revolutionary improvement in how we manage our energy systems on which we depend for survival (food). It certainly puts Masterchef into perspective. Since coming up with cooking, we have had many other energy transitions. But we have never transitioned to a form of energy which is less efficient, more expensive and less reliable (a lower EROI). Not in the history if civilisations actually holding up, anyway. Each transition in history, from solar to wood to windmills to coal to oil to nuclear was about getting more for less. More energy per unit of energy expended in getting it. We ended up with so much energy that we used it for things other than cooking, such as cars, TVs and going on holiday to Japanto eat raw chicken. Because of this, it was obvious why we were conducting each energy transition it made us richer. And so nobody had to force it upon us. But all that is about to change. Unfortunately, renewable energy projects are set to reduce our EROI. Some even use as much or more energy than they generate! An Australian researcher at the Finnish Geological Survey, Simon Michaux, thinks wind turbines are sometimes a good example of this, once you consider the energy expended in the entire process of making one (including the mining of resources). The energy to create the materials and then manufacture the wind turbine and then get it into place is actually more than what that wind turbine will generate across its life cycle, when its then taken away. So were in this sort of phase at the moment where the true costs of everything that we do are not completely understood. And there is a reluctance to understand them, because weve got it easy at the moment. Were depending on fossil fuels this cheap abundant energy source and its allowing us to do all sorts of things. Without cheap and readily available fossil fuels, building windmills becomes a challenging task. In other words, can a wind turbine produce enough energy to produce a wind turbineonce you include the energy needed to find, mine, refine, manufacture and install whats needed? The margins are sometimes dangerously thin. Which leaves dangerously little energy over for doing much else in our economy. This doesnt matter when renewable energy is a small part of the grid. But if it is the entire grid, the equation matters a lot. Because well be spending so much energy rebuilding so-called renewable energy that we wont have enough for the other things we like to do. Our entire economy will be dedicated to keeping enough renewable energy online to build the next generation of renewable energy. And there wont be any energy left over for cooking Until next time, Nick Hubble, Guest Contributor, Money Morning PS: STREAMING NOW: What youre not being told about the greatest energy U-turn in historyIts the polarising video we had to releaseand it reveals how the goal of 100% renewable energy in Australia is impossible. Stream NOT ZERO now and youll discover that some of the wealthiest investors in the world have spent the last 18 months quietly loading up on fossil fuel stocks. Theyve figured out whats coming and now, so can you. WATCH THE VIDEO HERE Hat dance performance by students from School 14 named after President Ho Chi Minh (Photo: baoquocte.vn) Along with the hat dance performance, unique Vietnamese handicraft products such as bamboo curtain paintings, lacquered coconut bowls, pearl coconut plates, brocade bags and silk scarves were also introduced to international friends. This year's Vietnam Embassy booth was also located right next to the main stage, which was one of the most attractive spots for visitors to the Fair. Previously, the Vietnamese Embassy donated a number of gifts including handmade items such as trays, plates, pearl mosaic jars and hand-embroidered ties, supporting the lucky draw program at the Fair. The lucky guests who received the gift products returned to the booth to express their love and appreciation for the thoughtfulness of Vietnamese people. The Fair is an important annual event organized by the Women's Diplomacy Club (WDC) under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia, along with the Embassies and Consulates General of host countries, and small and medium enterprises of Mongolia. It is held around mid-September every year to raise and support the most vulnerable and disadvantaged groups in Mongolian society such as poor, orphaned, and disabled children at Monglogian care and protection establishments and centers. According to the Organizing Committee, since the Club was founded in 1998, the "Charity Fair" event has been held for the 23rd time (interrupted for 2 years due to the COVID-19 pandemic) and has implemented more than 100 projects supporting vulnerable groups with donated money./. The new Community First Guam Federal Credit Union location is seen Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023, in Hagatna. Department of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities Director Michelle Perez, left, testifies during a public hearing Tuesday, May 2, 2023, at the Guam Congress Building in Hagatna. Contractors working for the Army Corps of Engineers continue Typhoon Mawar debris cleanup on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, along Wusstig Road in Yigo. Vice Chairman of the Peoples Committee of HCMC (R) Vo Van Hoan receives Senator Victor Oh, Chairman of the Canada-Vietnam Parliamentary Friendship Group. (Photo: VNA) Vice Chairman of the municipal Peoples Committee Vo Van Hoan made the statement during a reception held for Senator Victor Oh, chairman of the Canada-Vietnam Parliamentary Friendship Group, who is paying a working trip to HCMC. At the meeting, he highlighted that there are great potential and opportunities for trade and investment cooperation between Vietnam and Canada, and between HCMC and Canadian localities in particular, said the Vietnam News Agency. The Vice Chairman thanked Mr. Oh and his colleagues for their support for HCMCs delegation during its working trip to Canada in June, which achieved many positive outcomes. Mr. Hoan called for support from the senator to promote trade ties and the exchange of business delegations between HCMC and Canadian localities, thus strengthening mutual understanding and making it easier for the two sides to explore opportunities for investment cooperation, towards realising commitments to promoting economic cooperation between the two countries. For his part, Senator Oh said Canadian companies consider Vietnam as a top investment destination in ASEAN and are eager to expand investment and trade cooperation with HCMC. He affirmed that as a co-chair of the Canada-Vietnam Friendship Parliamentary Group, he will do his utmost to support HCMC in stepping up economic cooperation and people-to-people exchanges with Canadian localities. Mr. Oh highly valued the significance of the HCMC Economic Forum 2023s theme of green growth, especially in the context of climate change having a severe impact worldwide. Many businesses within the Vietnamese business community in Vancouver and Toronto of Canada have experience and strengths in green and sustainable growth areas, he said, stressing that this presents a favourable opportunity for HCMC to promote connections and partnerships in the coming time./. Oleg Parashchak, CEO Finance Media, Editor-in-Chief Insurance TOP, Forinsurer & Beinsure Media The war in Ukraine has created a complex web of risks and geopolitical alliances, with national strategic interests being temporarily put aside to shape direction at the transnational level. Cyber warfare and the attendant risk of systemic losses have long cast a shadow over the cyber insurance market. The issue has become even more pressing since war broke out in Ukraine, according to Howdens report. Systemic cyber exposures present challenges for an insurance market built on underwriting mostly geographically contained and uncorrelated risks, and being guided in the process by historical data to help manage aggregations, estimate potential losses and price policies. 9% of SMEs that purchased cyber insurance said the Russia-Ukraine War was a key trigger for their purchase. Nearly one in 10 SMEs that bought cyber insurance did so as a precaution against the Russia-Ukraine war. The leading factors were increased working from home during the pandemic (27%) and media reports about cyberattacks (26%). Cyberwarfare has provided just a handful of notable skirmishes in the Russia-Ukraine War. But fears linger that the scale and frequency of digital attacks on financial, industrial, and state targets in Ukraine, and among its allies, could escalate, Oleg Parashchak says. Whilst there have been no cyber attacks of comparable scale since the invasion of Ukraine, the scope of cyber insurance, and the war exclusions issue specifically, has taken centre stage as carriers look to clarify their positions on cyber warfare and buyers seek reassurance that existing levels of protection will be maintained. Cyber insurance prices stabilizing in the second half of 2022 and the first half of 2023 has resulted in an improvement for those clients renewing their cyber cover, and really good news in terms of being able to bring new buyers in and grow the market. For existing customers, the rate increases and coverage restrictions that insurers were imposing when the hard market was in full swing wasnt sustainable in terms of clients continuing to see the value of the cover. Some things had to change there, which fortunately they have. Prices were soaring by 150% heading into 2022 but are now ticking up by 10% to 15% on average, according to Marsh. In some cases, reductions ranging from 10% to 25% are being seen. Its stabilizing to the point where clients can actually budget and plan for the cost of it. Pricing has also become more predictable. Sudden price changes two weeks before renewal were not unheard of in the past, but now, insurers can have formal discussions three-to-six months out again. Inconsistent terms and language across cyber (re)insurance policies and their enforceability in relation to attribution especially but also the circumstances and context of each attack were concerns that pre-dated the war in Ukraine, and have taken on more weight as the conflict continues and geopolitical tensions escalate elsewhere. Whilst a carveback for cyber terrorism worked its way into many traditional war exclusions, the language is often broader than its originally intended scope, leaving another area for dispute on untested language. Geopolitics and cyber security are inextricably linked, and whilst attention is focused on Ukraine, it is important to remember that Russia is not the Wests only cyber adversary. China, Iran, North Korea and Venezuela are also hostile to Western interests and are actively seeking to disrupt, exploit and influence to further their goals. Russian cyber activity aimed at the West has seen no discernible increase, with the exception of countries in close vicinity to the conflict zone, most notably Poland. Russian cyber activity has undoubtedly been consolidated further during the war, raising the potential for the state to carry out strategic attacks on Western targets, disguised behind the actions of criminal gangs. According to Global Cyber Insurance Market Review, whilst the high-impact cyber attacks widely predicted in the lead up to the war in Ukraine have not (yet) occurred, the last 18 months have stood out for the marked increase in wiper malware attacks. The FBI report details more than 800,000 cyber crime-related complaints. With Russian actors less able to shield behind a veneer of plausible deniability, the response threshold appears to be lower. In the past five years, the IC3 received a total of 3.26 million complaints for $27.6 billion in losses. TOP 5 cyber crime types Phishing: 300,497 complaints Personal Data Breach: 58,859 complaints Non-Payment / Non-Delivery: 51,679 complaints. Extortion: 39,416 complaints. Tech Support: 32,538 complaints. The FBI also outlined various threat overviews in their report. These overviews included business email compromise (BEC), investment scams, ransomware and call center fraud. TOP 5 sectors affected by ransomware: Healthcare and Public Health, Critical manufacturing, Government facilities, Information Technology and Financial services. The wiper malware discovered in Ukraine over the last 18 months has had its ability to self-replicate set very low when compared to the Russian-linked NotPetya ransomware in 2017, which started in Ukraine and then wreaked havoc when it spread across the globe. It is also possible that Russia is focussing its outward cyber efforts on espionage, both to prepare for future attacks and gather intelligence on other countries responses to the war. Pro-Ukraine cyber activity has mostly focused on the release of confidential information and other sensitive material, although hackers based in other former Soviet territories have recently lifted an informal embargo on attacking Russian-speaking companies in protest against Russian aggression, Howden says. How cyber is deployed in any war depends heavily on the warring factions involved but developments in Ukraine may offer some insights for future conflicts where at least one of the state actors has advanced cyber capabilities, such as China, Israel or the U.S. According to Beinsure Cyber Security Top Trends, the blending of military and cyber goals is one such area. By focussing some of its conventional warfare efforts into capturing physical cyber infrastructure, such as network cables and data centres, Russia has set the dominance of Ukrainian cyberspace as a clear military goal, something confirmed by the recent Vulkan leaks. Kyiv plans WTO action against Poland, Hungary and Slovakia over their refusal to drop a ban on Ukrainian agricultural products, Deputy Minister of Economy, Trade Representative of Ukraine Taras Kachka said in an interview with Politico. "It is important to prove that these actions are legally wrong. And that's why we will start start legal proceedings tomorrow," Kachka said last Sunday, adding that Kyiv was preparing to retaliate against Polish fruit and vegetable exports. Commenting on the introduction of unilateral bans by Poland, Hungary and Slovakia on Ukrainian grain after the decision of the European Commission to lift the restrictions, Kachka said that "in our eyes these measures of Hungary and Poland is a statement of total distrust to the European Commission." Kachka argued that the open defiance against Brussels by Poland, Hungary and Slovakia was not just an internal matter for the EU, but raised what he called "the biggest systemic concern" whether international trade partners can trust that Brussels speaks for the EU. "For many years, it's been the European Commission who is the trade negotiator and trade policy institution for the whole EU. And we used to work on this basis," Kachka said, adding: "The systemic approach of Budapest and Warsaw of ignoring the position of the EU institutions in trade policy, I think that will be a problem for the EU in general, because there is no unity there." Kyiv plans to sue the countries at the World Trade Organization rather than via its own trade accord with the EU. "I think that all the world should see how member states in the EU behave towards trade partners and their own Union, because it can influence other states as well." While Slovakia simply extended the EU's previous ban on four types of grain, Poland imposed additional bans on Ukrainian flour and feed over the weekend. Hungary, Kachka said, is going even further and banning an additional 25 products that had not been discussed before, including meat. "These arbitrary prohibitions are ridiculous. I think that Hungary here is making a political statement that it wants to block trade with Ukraine and as well disregard Brussels completely. And that's why I think that this is a very bold movement against both of us from Budapest," Kachka said. While Hungary's additional bans are mostly symbolic, given that Ukraine does not export much beef or pork to the country, Poland's measures will affect a significant part of Ukraine's exports, Kachka said. Unless Warsaw drops these additional bans, "we would be forced to retaliate on the additional products, and would prohibit the import of fruit and vegetables from Poland." The governments in Budapest and Warsaw have said they are acting to protect their farmers from a surge in Ukrainian products that has depressed prices but Kachka retorted that this reasoning was flawed: "Poland's ban will not help farmers, it will not affect prices, because prices are global what they are doing is based on public opinion." An EU official told Playbook that Brussels hoped to solve the fight by getting Kyiv to impose its own restrictions on exports in the case of sudden surges. Asked about that potential deal, Kachka said Kyiv was ready to "take on the responsibility to ensure that export from Ukraine is not creating any tsunami in neighboring countries," and would impose a system of "real time" export licenses for grains to both "slow down" the exports to neighboring countries and allow Ukraine to "react rapidly" if a surge is detected. By Stephen Knight This column is being written on Thursday, September 14 at 9 a.m. The primary subject is going to be Hurricane Lee, which has to be subject numero uno. It is rare that a hurricane wanders up our way, so it is big news in all its aspects: where will it make landfall, how powerful will it be when it does, how are all the states and provinces in its potential path preparing for it, etc., etc. If this intro begs the question Well, yeah, but isnt he watching the coverage?, the answer is no, because my wife Cathy and I are on the cruise ship Vista. And three days ago, the ship was in St. Johns, Newfoundland, right in the cone of uncertainty of the potential path of Hurricane Lee at that time. The wall-to-wall coverage that is spawned when hurricanes visit New England rarely touches on the impact such a storm has on those at sea, ultimately the most vulnerable and dangerous place to be in such circumstances. Anyone who has seen the excellent movie adaptation of the novel Perfect Storm is provided with a gripping illustration of the terror visited on anyone in the middle of such weather. So, I thought it might be interesting to relate how Oceania Cruise Line, and all cruise lines, for that matter, are affected by these storms and the measures that they take to avoid them at all costs by telling you about the impact on our ship as an example. A little background is in order: New England, the Maritime Provinces of Canada and the St. Lawrence River are huge cruise ship destinations in September and October, for obvious reasons. Ours is one of dozens of ships plying these waters right now, so not only is avoiding the storm a critical element, but so is finding a safe port to ride out the weather while making sure the ship is at its last destination on time because one cruise will end for the passengers on board and another new complement of passengers will be boarding on the same day. Not being at the final port on time is a logistics and public relations nightmare to be avoided at all costs. Newfoundland is the farthest eastern point in North America, with Montreal 1,800 located miles from here, as an example. As for Vista, we have four more ports still on our itinerary: St. John, New Brunswick, Bar Harbor, ME, Boston, MA, and Newport, RI, before we reach New York on Sunday the 17. Plus a full day at sea to reach New Brunswick. Our ship captain comes on the ship-wide public address system. Normally, we only hear from him at noon when he gives the ships position and the weather, so when he comes on at another time, its never good. As, currently, Lee in predicted to arrive on Friday or Saturday in downeast Maine or the Maritimes, the goal is to get as far west as possible well before then. The itinerary he lays out is: St. John on Tuesday as scheduled, then straight to New York, arriving Friday the 15 at 6 a.m. We will be west of the hurricane, will avoid any rough seas, and our berth on the west side of Manhattan is available two days early. And, of prime importance, the ship is where it needs to be for the passenger swap, so the travel plans for thousands are undisrupted the ultimate goal. This is an expensive decision, but one that a cruise line will always make. Safety really is their first concern, but passenger comfort also ranks high. Being on a ship in rough weather is a miserable experience. In any kind of real storm, its way worse, as people get injured moving about the ship and, in the worst cases, furniture and anything else not secured to the deck goes flying. Cruise lines go to great lengths to make the experience of being on one of their ships as carefree and relaxing as a day at the beach. On the giant ships, you can hardly tell youre actually at sea. Its an incredibly complex business, with probably the most challenging logistics imaginable. The decision that Oceania Cruise Line made regarding our cruise is the last thing they thought theyd have to make. A hurricane in New England? Really? Hundreds of Oceania employees are hard at work dealing with the circumstances right now, and we passengers wont be inconvenienced one bit. As people whose career was in logistics, we find that an impressive performance. We hope you stayed safe during Hurricane Lee. We certainly were. Thanks, Oceania Cruises. Stephen Knight is a former Wallingford town councilor. A tragic accident in Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe has taken the life of a toddler. On Wednesday last week, two-year-old Leeroy Linnel Sakatero was fatally electrocuted at his familys home in Portlet Farm. According to police spokesperson Inspector Margaret Chitove, the boy somehow inserted a steel nail into an active electrical socket in his parents bedroom. Tragically, he also attempted to lick the nail with his tongue, resulting in a shock that took his life. The incident occurred in the afternoon while Leeroys mother Nomsa Tembo was attending to chores outside. His body was later taken to the Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital mortuary. Inspector Chitove confirmed the details and expressed condolences to the family. She further urged all guardians to be vigilant in securing potential dangers from young children. Electrical outlets, appliances, tools and other hazardous objects should be kept well out of reach of minors, for their safety. Breaking News via Email This is Naked Capitalism fundraising week. 1282 donors have already invested in our efforts to combat corruption and predatory conduct, particularly in the financial realm. Please join us and participate via our donation page, which shows how to give via check, credit card, debit card or PayPal or our new payment processor, Clover. Read about why were doing this fundraiser, what weve accomplished in the last year,, and our current goal, expanding our reach. California just wrapped up its 2023 legislative session last week with a flurry of bills that promise to maintain the states status as a neoliberal hell that makes life miserable for all but the wealthiest. Its worth remembering California has a Democrat supermajority, so much of the following can be read as a summary of Democrat priorities. The Homelessness Crisis I wrote back in January about the coming California CARE Courts and their potential for abuse. Gov. Gavin Newsoms biggest legislative priority last year, these courts allows family members and others (such as police) to petition someone with suspected mental illness into civil courts, where a judge would order a treatment plan and require mental health departments to provide it. There are major concerns about CARE as opponents of the law have pointed out that the criteria are subjective, speculative and subject to bias. In California, more than 171,000 people are homeless thats 30 percent of the national homeless total in a state that has 12 percent of the national population. And no, the homeless are not flocking to California to live the good life. Most of the homeless people on Californias streets are Californians who were simply priced out of housing. A major study released earlier this year from UCSFs Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative showed that the main driver behind homelessness in California is the increasinging precariousness of the working poor. Rather than take action to prevent homelessness (in neoliberal California, public housing isnt even considered, and the fight for affordable housing never seems to get anywhere), the state and its Democrat supermajority have settled on a policy to make the homeless disappear. While other states are criminalizing homelessness in an attempt to get the unhoused out of sight and out of mind, California is doing it under the guise of caring. Now two new bills could vastly expand the ability of the state to commit homeless Californians against their will. Senate bill 43, which is headed to Newsoms desk, expands the criteria for the detention, forced treatment and conservatorship of those deemed mentally ill. For example, the bill adds alcoholism to the definition gravely disabled, which means it could now lead to involuntary hospitalization and conservatorship. The bill also makes it easier for an expert witness opinion to lead to the appointment or reappointment of a conservator. Californias approach ignores the fact that it is next to impossible to treat addiction and mental illness without stable housing. In 2016, California enacted a housing first model in contrast to the long-established treatment first. The problem is any relapse means losing housing. Now the state is going with involuntary treatment, which has been shown to be ineffective. Human Rights Watch on the many problems with Californias new approach: Californians lack adequate access to supportive mental health care and treatment.[39] However, this program does not increase that access. Investing in involuntary treatment ties up resources that could otherwise be invested in voluntary treatment and the services necessary to make that treatment effective.[40] California should provide well-resourced holistic community-based voluntary options and remove barriers to evidence-based treatment to support people living with mental health conditions and harmful substance use who might also face other forms of social exclusion. Such options should be coupled with investment in other social supports and housing. Expanding forced treatment is a regressive, costly, and inequitable approach to addressing the structural barriers that keep communities from thriving. We respectfully urge you to reject SB 43 and instead direct resources to making voluntary treatment, housing, and other supportive services accessible to all. A last-minute switch will also allow money from a $6 billion bond proposal to be used to construct facilities for involuntary confinement. Advocates for disabled Californians had originally supported the effort, which up until the last minute was supposed to be used solely to build unlocked, community-based treatment facilities and supportive housing for people suffering from mental illness or addiction disorders. But the administration of Gov. Gavin Newsom adjusted the language at the 11th hour and Californias Democrat supermajority passed it in the state senate 35-2 and in the house 63-7. The bond measure will now go to California voters in the Spring. The state will likely need the involuntary confinement facilities as California CARE Courts start in October. The government refuses to attack issues that cause homelessness, such as low wages, lack of public housing, the Wall Street takeover of housing rentals and their efforts to keep rents artificially high, or the lack of a social safety net, etc. In the absence of such solutions, new innovative schemes keep popping up. Nonprofiting Off of Homelessness The San Francisco-based nonprofit Urban Alchemy is starting to take its approach to dealing with homelessness nationwide. That approach includes hiring formerly incarcerated and/or homeless individuals to corral the homeless into designated encampments and police them. More from The Nation: UA practitioners or ambassadors guard corners and patrol Market Street, respond to emergency calls relating to homelessness, and monitor tent encampments and shelters. Some wear sunglasses and balaclavas with their uniform: a camouflage jacket emblazoned on the back with the groups all-seeing-eye logo Were the Google or Instagram of social services, [cofounder Lena] Miller says. She envisions the group going from city to city, revolutionizing the industry. Until recently, UAs website said it planned to expand to three more cities by summer 2025including Portland, Ore., where its at the center of a plan to corral the unhoused population into massive city-sanctioned encampments. What exactly is innovative about Urban Alchemys approach? UA skeptics like Kaitlyn Dey, a Portland-based homelessness researcher, argue that politicians use nonprofits to keep their promises to reduce interactions between police and homeless people without substantially changing the system. And to the average liberal city dweller, having a nonprofit administer the sweeps makes that work appear more humane than when armed cops do it. Working with groups like UA also reduces transparencyinternal UA e-mails, for instance, are not subject to FOIA requestsinsulating local officials should problems arise. Urban Alchemy has faced at least six lawsuits with allegations that the nonprofits ambassadors are dealing hard drugs, making sexual advances on the vulnerable, and assaulting people on the streets. In Other California News The destruction of the states once proud (and free) higher education system continues. The California State University system voted on September 13 to raise tuition 34 percent over the next five years. They did so despite protests from students and the faculty union. The systems board of trustees claim they must raise tuition for equity and access reasons, i.e., raising graduation rates among Black, Latino and Native American students. Students werent buying it. From Cal Matters: Across roughly 2.5 hours of designated time for public comments, an hour longer than trustees planned, students inveighed against the trustees for proposing the tuition hikes and reprimanded the trustees for slouching and looking at their phones during the students remarks. Some decried what they called the inherent racism of raising revenue through tuition hikes at a system that enrolls mostly students of color. A few admonished Cal State for not explaining how the hikes will affect students who pay full tuition. Others bitterly observed that the incoming system chancellors compensation will exceed $1 million. Students are supposed to be offered affordable higher education but instead we are slowly being stripped away of our education because the CSU fails to see us as students but instead sees us as their salary increases, said Cassandra Garcia, the student body president at Sonoma State. You watch your students sleep in cars from the comfort of your gated communities, another student from Cal State Dominguez Hills said. We are working numerous jobs just to be able to attend and you want to raise tuition, said Courtland Briggs, a student from Cal State Channel Islands. Its pathetic. Yall are pathetic. California students did not pay any tuition until Ronald Reagans time as governor when he cut state funding for college and universities and laid the foundation for a tuition-based system. In 1975 students at University of California schools were paying $600 in fees and tuition. With the most recent tuition hikes, Cal State students will soon be paying roughly $8,000 per year in just tuition. In-state tuition for the University of California system is $14,436, which doesnt include fees, housing, books, etc. Those costs can bring it up to more than $40,000. Theres no telling yet if all the California college students sleeping in their cars will get caught up in the states CARE courts. *** Gov. Gavin Newsom, a longtime recipient of money from the tech industry, is expected to veto a bill that requires a trained human safety operator to be present in self-driving trucks using public roads in the state. Back in August, one of Newsoms senior advisers wrote a letter to the bills author, complaining that restrictions on autonomous trucking would undermine regulations and limit innovation. *** Newsom is likely to sign into law a bill that would require judges to consider whether a parent affirms their childs gender identity in making custody and visitation decisions. The parents feelings on their childs identity would be weighed alongside factors, such as a history of drug or alcohol abuse or domestic violence, in determining the childs well-being. While those opposed argued the bill is intrusive, a bill headed to Newsom that would include housekeepers, nannies and other household staff in laws requiring health and safety protections is unlikely to survive his veto power due to the sanctity of the private household. He vetoed a similar proposal before, claiming that private households cannot be regulated by the state in the same way as businesses. *** The Ninth Circuit Court recently ruled that prisons can use solitary confinement for as long as they would like. The ruling invalidated a 2015 settlement between the state and prisoners, which limited the hours a prisoner could be in solitary confinement and restricted its use to those who pose a danger to other inmates. Naturally, a bill in Sacramento to restrict the use of solitary confinement died at the end the of the legislative session. The Sacramento Bee reported that this is to allow time to facilitate good faith negotiations with Newsom, who vetoed a previous attempt at limiting the use of solitary in prisons. Some Good News Maybe On the bright side, the California legislature passed a bill that would make workers who are on strike for more than two weeks eligible for unemployment benefits. Now the only question is if Newsom will sign it into law. Hollywood writers have been on strike for more than 100 days while actors began striking on July 14. The large majority of strikes in 2022 lasted less than five days, however. This is Naked Capitalism fundraising week. 1289 donors have already invested in our efforts to combat corruption and predatory conduct, particularly in the financial realm. Please join us and participate via our donation page, which shows how to give via check, credit card, debit card or PayPal or our new payment processor, Clover. Read about why were doing this fundraiser, what weve accomplished in the last year,, and our current goal, more original reporting. Where Can You Find the Oldest Cat Door on Earth? Smithsonian Magazine Can This Piston-Less Engine Save Internal Combustion And Pose A Threat To EVs? Top Speed Why so many new products for adults look like they were made for little kids Fast Company Parasites turn ants into zombies that adapt to temperatureInteresting Engineering Climate/Environment The big conservative talking point on climate now is that fossil fuel development is solving poverty and energy access, esp in Africa. A few key things to note: 1. Nigeria has the largest and oldest fossil fuel industry on the continent & lowest energy access rate in the world Amy Westervelt (@amywestervelt) September 17, 2023 Water #COVID-19 Places that are doing IPAC better than hospitals: my tattoo artists studio my massage therapists clinic my dentists office my house https://t.co/jG7bMJqf9J Amanda Hu (@amandalhu) September 18, 2023 Old Blighty India China? European Disunion New Not-So-Cold War Because Ukrainian nationalists and DCs uniparty wouldnt accept Ukraines constitutional commitment to neutrality; the elected President overthrown in 2014; the 2015 Minsk accords; and an April 2022 peace deal with Russia, the comedian elected on a peace platform is now a proxy https://t.co/Xr3aPF5aec Aaron Mate (@aaronjmate) September 18, 2023 The key mistake that Western policymakers are making right now is thinking that they have a meaningful choice in the matter. https://t.co/2u1S4qricb Armchair Warlord (@ArmchairW) September 17, 2023 Syraqistan Imperial Collapse Watch Spend $500 billion developing a stealth fighter Engineer it to be as hard as possible to find Lose one Ask the public to help you find it https://t.co/7ASigX2ib8 Big Serge (@witte_sergei) September 18, 2023 Spook Country 2024 Top Democrats Bullishness on Biden 2024 Collides With Voters Worries New York Times. The deck: Party leaders have rallied behind the presidents re-election bid, but as one top Democratic strategist put it, The voters dont want this, and thats in poll after poll after poll. WATCH: Fmr. Pres. Trump wont say if he would send U.S. troops to Taiwan if China were to invade, if re-elected. Trump: Only stupid people are going to give that answer.@kwelkernbc: But you dont take it off the table? Trump: I dont take anything off the table, no. pic.twitter.com/nHTgX3Bcx6 Meet the Press (@MeetThePress) September 17, 2023 GOP Clown Car Man groped by Lauren Boebert during frisky Beetlejuice date owns gay-friendly bar that hosts drag shows New York Post Democrats en deshabille Healthcare Medical Debt Is Killing Our Patients MedPage Today Police State Watch Our Famously Free Press A few thoughts on the Russell Brand furore Jonathan Cook Brands thoughts on the matter: This is happening pic.twitter.com/N8zIKLbJN2 Russell Brand (@rustyrockets) September 15, 2023 AI Tech Apple continues to use our own mortality as marketing The Verge Supply Chain Silk Road vs Spice Route: IMEC and its Implications Modern Diplomacy Class Warfare The Bezzle Antidote du jour (via): See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here. This is Naked Capitalism fundraising week. 1302 donors have already invested in our efforts to combat corruption and predatory conduct, particularly in the financial realm. Please join us and participate via our donation page, which shows how to give via check, credit card, debit card or PayPal or our new payment processor, Clover. Read about why were doing this fundraiser, what weve accomplished in the last year,, and our current goal, more original reporting. Yves here. Andrew Kobybko provides an important sighting, although he has arguably buried the lede. The latest Intercept leak provides further confirmation that the ouster of former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan was to deny Pakistan the ability to chart an independent (as in multipolar-oriented) path and move it back into the US orbit. The latest leaks indicate that some of Pakistans moves that gave it the appearance of having some space between Pakistan and the US were strictly optical. Korybko contends that thats not much of a loss for Russia, but by contrast, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is a significant component of the Belt & Road Initiative. 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 At the same time as Pakistani officials were negotiating with Russia to import oil and abstaining from anti-Russian UNGA Resolutions alongside China, their countrys arms were being used by Ukraine to kill Russians and therefore undermine Chinas diplomatic efforts to freeze the most dangerous conflict since World War II. The Intercept reported on Sunday that U.S. Helped Pakistan Get IMF Bailout With Secret Arms Deal For Ukraine, Leaked Documents Reveal, which is its second damning disclosure in as many months after it revealed in August that the US did indeed encourage the ouster of its former premier in spring 2022. The latest leaks allege that Pakistan has been selling arms to the US for transfer to Ukraine since that summer and that the US pressured the IMF to bail Pakistan out this summer as a quid pro quo for that. The sequence of events suggested by The Intercepts last two reports add credence to Imran Khans consistent claims that he was deposed through a combination of American meddling and internal subterfuge as punishment for his truly neutral stance towards the NATO-Russian proxy war in Ukraine. Once his multipolar governmentwas replaced by pro-US proxies, Pakistan instantly reverted back to its traditional status as Americas top proxy in South Asia, following which it cut a deal for arming Kiev. This whole time, however, its officials vehemently denied Indian media reports about its indirect weapons transfers to that country. Pakistan also abstained from anti-Russian UNGA Resolutions and continued trying to negotiate an ultimately unsuccessful energy deal with Moscow. In hindsight, those three moves were nothing but a ruse for misleading Russia and saving face before its so-called iron brothers in China in the hopes that they wouldnt think that post-coup Pakistan defected to the US. As it turns out, Pakistan was secretly selling arms to Chinas systemic rival for over a year already with the intent of perpetuating the same proxy war that Beijing has tried to freeze since February, which represents a blatant betrayal of its decades-long strategic partner. To add insult to injury, it allegedly pushed through the latest deal this summer in exchange for the US pressuring the IMF to bail it out, thus showing that Pakistan already decided on Western sources of aid instead of considering such from China. This insight proves that Pakistan has been functioning as the US Trojan Horse for duping the SinoRusso Entente ever since Imran Khans scandalous removal from office nearly a year and a half ago. At the same time as its officials were negotiating with Russia to import oil and abstaining from anti-Russian UNGA Resolutions alongside China, their countrys arms were being used by Ukraine to kill Russians and therefore undermine Chinas diplomatic efforts to freeze the most dangerous conflict since World War II. For these reasons, neither China nor Russia has any reason to trust Pakistan after The Intercepts latest leaks, but their officials might still act cordially towards it in public for the sake of optics. Russia can easily disengage from Pakistan since those two hadnt successfully reached any major investment deals during their prior rapprochement, but China is in a much more difficult position due to Pakistan hosting the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which is the Belt & Road Initiatives (BRI) flagship project. Although former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari told his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in May 2022 that Pakistan remains committed to CPEC, which former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed during talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping that November, its now known that they were lying. The first was in the process of clinching Pakistans first Ukrainian arms deal with the US for facilitating an IMF bailout while the second was continuing these sales when they took their respective trips to China. If they truly considered CPEC to be crucial to their countrys 21st-century development, then theyd never have sold arms to Chinas systemic rival in exchange for financial aid but would have instead focused solely on doing whatever might have been required to secure such aid from Beijing. This observation proves that Pakistan secretly pivoted to the US right after Imran Khans ouster, which means that its officials were lying to Foreign Minister Wangs and President Xis faces about their commitment to CPEC. Their mission was to deceive China into thinking that the former premiers removal was a purely domestic affair so that it would remain oblivious to the fact that the US was clandestinely obtaining control over BRIs flagship project by proxy. As a result of these deception operations, the Biden Administration pulled off an unprecedented power play against China that resulted in the US indirectly exerting influence over CPEC and thus holding tens of billions of dollars of Chinese investment hostage. The Peoples Republic is therefore in a dilemma since disengaging from Pakistan or at least decelerating the pace of its investments there to hedge against this newfound strategic risk could prompt speculation about the future of BRI while doing nothing keeps China vulnerable to US blackmail. Nevertheless, the restoration of Pakistans traditional status as the US top proxy in South Asia after Imran Khans ouster and the countrys relapse into IMF dependence mean that CPEC investments arent safe. Accordingly, China might soon be forced to informally cut its losses since continuing to develop a connectivity corridor thats now under its systemic rivals de facto control would be highly irresponsible. It might also second-guess the wisdom of continuing to arm Pakistan against India after The Intercepts latest leak showed that Islamabad exploited this military support to sell domestically produced arms to Ukraine via the US, which prolongs the same proxy war that Beijing is trying its best to freeze. The post-coup clique felt so comfortable with the deluge of arms that their country received from China for potential use against India that it didnt think that Pakistani security would suffer by exporting what it produces at home to Ukraine for killing Chinas Russian strategic partners at the US behest. The more that one dwells upon their strategic calculations, the deeper their betrayal of China becomes, which reinforces the claim that Pakistan is the US Trojan Horse in the New Cold War. In spite of all this, China might still stay the course in relations with Pakistan, perhaps out of fear that gradually decoupling could lead to Islamabad concluding that it has nothing to lose by complying with Washingtons demands to destabilize Xinjiang. Regardless of whatever China chooses to do, The Intercepts damning disclosure proves that Pakistan is once again doing the US geopolitical bidding, which destroys the goodwill and trust that Imran Khan cultivated for his country across the Global South. The state budget of Ukraine for 2024 provides about UAH 30 billion for various business support programs, of which UAH 30 billion to the Entrepreneurship Development Fund for the continuation of the programs Affordable Loans 5-7-9% and Affordable Financial Leasing 5-7-9%. According to an explanatory note to the document, expenses of UAH 1 billion are also provided for partial compensation of the cost of domestically produced agricultural equipment and the same amount for the creation of industrial parks. Another UAH 2 billion are planned to be allocated for humanitarian demining, stimulating the development of the market for such services, and UAH 1.37 billion for the creation and development of processing enterprises, as well as horticulture. In addition, expenses are provided for state support for the implementation of investment projects with significant investments UAH 3 billion and the same amount for supporting domestic demand for domestic goods and services. The Ministry of Economy said that economic growth is expected to accelerate next year to 5%. BREAKING: Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. throws down the gauntlet on rigged DNC, promises to look at other options if democrat party bosses wont allow a fair and free election In a live town hall event that took place Sunday, September 17th, 2023, hosted by Stand For Health Freedom , US presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. announced he was ready to "look at other options" after the rigged Democrat party has excluded him by exclusively endorsing Joe Biden and rigging the Democrat nomination process. This decision stemmed from the irrefutable fact that the Democrat party has rigged the nomination process to exclude any candidates that don't push party narratives on vaccines, climate, Ukraine, election integrity, parental rights, transgenderism and other topics. "I believe in the same democratic values that my father and my uncle believed in," RFK, Jr. said. "Civil rights, environment, good public health, anti-war, skeptical of the emergence of, the domination of our government by Wall Street, our foreign policy by the military industrial complex... If you go down that checklist, I check every one of them." But the Democrat election machine refuses to allow a free and fair nomination process to take place, warns RFK, Jr. "I've watched the Democratic party kind of go off the rails. My hope was to summon Democrats back to being a Kennedy democrat... but that, we'll see. It's very clear now that at the DNC, they are supposed to be neutral, they are not supposed to take sides. But five days after Biden made his announcement that he was going to run, the DNC endorsed him... The DNC campaign is the Biden campaign and vice versa. And they've declared war on me." RFK, Jr., whose campaign site is Kennedy24.com, promises to "look at other options" if the DNC doesn't play fair. He explains: (emphasis added) They've changed the rules... They've disenfranchised states that voted against Biden last time, so their votes will not be counted [in the primaries]. Even if I win all the states, I could lose at the convention, even if I win those states overwhelmingly, because the votes of the superdelegates... (pause) so we are appealing to the DNC to make this a free and fair election, and if they don't do that, I'm going to look at other options. It looks to us like RFK, Jr. is about to run as an independent. He may be giving the DNC a final chance to respect the democratic process, and if they refuse, we expect to see RFK go all-in with an independent candidacy. Defending the Constitution, health freedom and real civil rights RFK, Jr., who has been relentlessly smeared and defamed by the corporate media -- which is largely funded by Big Pharma -- took questions from the public and spoke passionately about a number of topics now on the minds of American people. During the town hall event, RFK, Jr. spoke out in favor of protecting the First Amendment, saying, "I'm a Constitutionalist... I believe the Constitution should be defended." He warned that Big Tech had "punished critics of the administration's policies," calling such censorship a "license for any atrocity." The government's effort to silence critics equates to a "systematic dismantling of the Bill of Rights of the Constitution," RFK, Jr. stated. He also spoke out against the abuse of power that was justified by the covid plandemic, stating, "There is no pandemic exception in the United States Constitution." He went on to explain that the US Constitution was written by founders who had direct knowledge and experience with pandemics, and they specifically wrote the Constitution to assure specific freedoms and distribution of power, despite the existence of pandemics. "You can't violate the Constitution no matter what. Even if tens of thousands of millions of lives are at stake, you can't violate the Constitution," he explained. "We shut down businesses with no due process. We abandoned the Fourth Amendment guarantees against warrantless searches and seizures... we systematically dismantled the Bill of Rights over a period of about a year. It was all illegal and unconstitutional." On totalitarianism and the surveillance state Describing today's technology-empowered authoritarian system as "turnkey totalitarianism," RFK, Jr. explained, "If a totalitarian regime ever gains control over our country, the level of control they can exert will be irresistible." He added: They can shut off your bank account. They can starve you to death. They can kick you out of your house. It's not theoretical. They did this to the Canadian truckers... so they couldn't buy food for their children. If the government has the capacity to starve you to death, they have the capacity to turn you into a slave. RFK, Jr. also said he would fire government employees who engaged in censorship collusion with the tech platforms: I'm going to issue an executive order that there be no more collusion between government employees and any kind of [tech platforms] involved in censorship... I will remove them from their jobs, anybody who was involved in this. We are going to put an end to it. About the rigged, deadly vaccine cartels RFK, Jr. also spoke with authority about to failure of the US vaccine injury compensation system, a rigged court system that strongly favors the interests of the pharmaceutical cartels while frequently denying families compensation for proven vaccine injuries. He explained that while he couldn't shut the court down, he could swap out the judges in order to greatly increase transparency and honesty in the system, which would likely result in a flood of new injury claims being filed (and likely paid). He also promised to end the system where employees of US government regulators receive financial royalties on vaccines. This creates an incentive for them to avoid finding problems with those vaccines, since their take-home salaries depend on those vaccines remaining commercially successful. Other notable quotes during the town hall event: "The day I get into office, I will pardon Edward Snowden and Julian Assange." "There's mass poisoning of the American people taking place. The food now has more poisons than nutrients. And that affects behavior and mental and physical well being. The air, the water is poisoned with chemicals that are linked to changes in sexual development and other behavioral issues." "I'm going to begin rebuilding the middle class in this country, first by making housing more available to people." "I'm going to legalize marijuana and tax marijuana federally. People will be able to use banks, but they'll pay federal taxes. I'm going to use that money to fund a series of healing farms across the country, particularly in rural areas. Anthony Oliver is going to start the first of these farms. Kids can go there. People who are on SSRIs, they can go there for long-term living and healing instruction. Grow organic food. Talk with each other. We will teach people how to actually live in communities again. We're going to start healing Americans again from the ground up. Dignity and hope and purpose for all of us." "All that money we spent in Ukraine is not making Americans happier, or healthier or more sane." "The FDA and USDA are captured agencies. They do everything they can to eradicate consumer choice. They don't want you to know where your food comes from. You're not allowed to know if the animals you're eating at GMO. Under my administration we're going to change all that. We need consumer choice. Consumer choice will ultimately dictate better farming practices. There's an entire industry that produces substandard food that's loaded with poisons and toxins. Farmers are being forced to produce commodities rather than raise actual food." "To the people concerned about climate, the most important thing we can do is support regenerative farming." "China is in control of our landscapes and our food production. They've turned farmers into serfs... we need to incentivize farmers to produce good, high quality food for the American people, rather than commodity filler that's loaded with chemicals." "I will de-fund the WHO. The WHO has become an instrument for China, for Davos, and for the pharmaceutical industry and the Big Ag industry. The WHO used to do useful things... it shouldn't be dictating global health policies and it shouldn't be involved in these giant vaccination programs..." "Global medicine is the path to totalitarianism, so we have to get rid of it." Learn more about RFK, Jr's run for US president at Kennedy24.com The reason why the COVID lab leak theory failed to gain traction from the beginning is because the CIA offered HUSH MONEY to keep the experts quiet about it The true brains behind the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) "pandemic" psy-op would seem to be the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), which allegedly offered hush money to at least six agency analysts who had originally, before being bribed, concluded that the Chinese Virus came from a lab in Wuhan. A "multi-decade, senior-level, current," CIA officer turned whistleblower testified before Congress this week that a bribery scheme is behind all the confusion between whether COVID came from a lab or from bat soup at some filthy wet market. Two separate letters penned by the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic and the House Permanent Select Subcommittee on Intelligence to CIA Director William J. Burns and former CIA Chief Operation Officer Andrew Makridis explain in detail the allegations of the whistleblower you can read them below: ?BREAKING? New testimony from a highly credible whistleblower alleges @CIA rewarded six analysts with significant financial incentives to change their COVID-19 origins conclusion from a lab-leak to zoonosis. pic.twitter.com/KIemfi2Wgl Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic (@COVIDSelect) September 12, 2023 (Related: It appears the government also paid off Big Pharma to manufacture COVID "vaccines" that are intentionally designed to kill unborn babies.) Is the CIA behind COVID itself? It was SSCP Chairman Brad Wenstrup and HPSCI Chairman Mike Turner's letter to Burns specifically that lays out the testimony of the whistleblower, who is described as "a highly credible senior-level CIA officer" who says the CIA offered "significant monetary incentive" to the agency's analysts in exchange for them changing their story on the true origins of COVID. Of the seven CIA analysts who were originally tasked to investigate and come up with a thesis for COVID's true origins, six of them came to the conclusion that it came from a lab in Wuhan, while only one went with what would become the government's official story about COVID. The whistleblower put it like this: the six CIA analysts who were offered bribes by their superiors if they agreed to change their stories "believed the intelligence and science were sufficient to make a low-confidence assessment that COVID-19 originated from a laboratory in Wuhan, China." It should be noted that all seven of the analysts who were part of the CIA's Covid Discovery Team are "multi-disciplinary and experienced officers with significant scientific expertise" who are more than qualified, we are told, to make this kind of determination. However, when the CIA's higher-ups did not like what six of the seven analysts ultimately concluded, they were offered "financial incentives" to "change their conclusion in favor of a zoonotic origin." "The seventh member of the Team, who also happened to be the most senior, was the lone officer to believe COVID-19 originated through zoonosis," the committee chairmen wrote in their letter. There probably never would have been any uncertainty at all about COVID's true origins had that hush money not been offered in the first place. The consensus would have been that COVID came from a lab, and that would have been the end of it. Instead, "the eventual public determination of uncertainty," as the chairmen put it, would cast an ever-present shadow of doubt about where COVID came from and some evidence would seem to suggest that COVID is not even real, and that it is instead some kind of chemical weapon or consequence of 5G or other EMF exposure. Whatever the case may be, the CIA really discredited itself with this whole COVID affair. One wonders if the CIA is actually behind the release of COVID, hence why it does not want people knowing the truth about where it came from or what it even is. More related news can be found at BigGovernment.news. Sources for this article include: TheFederalist.com NaturalNews.com Providence Hospital System, the largest Catholic health care system in America, imposed mandate for newest COVID jabs employee refusal could result in TERMINATION The nation's largest Roman Catholic health care system is among the first to mandate the new Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) "vaccine" for its employees. In its InOurCircle app, Providence Hospital System, a not-for-profit health care organization with more than 50 hospitals, 1,000 clinics, and 120,000 employees, notified all employees including those who are already "fully vaccinated" and "boosted" that they must take the all-new Fauci Flu shots from either Pfizer or Moderna, or else be forced to take unpaid leave or even lose their jobs entirely. The announcement states that all employees must take the new shots because "[w]e've all heard that cases of COVID-19 are on the rise and the latest updates to COVID-19 vaccines are proving effective at preventing serious illness from the latest strains." Even though the new shots were never tested for safety on a single human being, Providence Hospital System has decided that in accordance with its "updated" COVID-19 Vaccination Policy, all "caregivers need to receive the most up-to-date COVID-19 vaccine available." Providence Hospital System operates hospitals and clinics in Alaska, California, Montana, Oregon, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming. ? BREAKING: MANDATORY COVID VACCINE for HEALTHCARE WORKERS The Providence Hospital System has announced a Nov 30 DEADLINE for all care providers! Are the healthcare workers going to continue to allow the government to tell them what is good for their health or finally take a pic.twitter.com/u6KVztMypk Chester Tam (@islantstudio) September 14, 2023 (Related: Remember when Pope Francis, the top dog in the Roman Catholic Church, called for a New World Order in which all human slaves are fully vaccinated?) Avoid Providence Hospital System like the plague In order to keep their jobs and not be punished, all Providence Hospital System employees must show proof of injection by November 30. Those who choose to forego the shot will need to submit a "declination form," which means they "will be removed from the schedule, placed on unpaid leave and may be subject to termination." "Caregivers who are fully remote and never report to an office are encouraged to be vaccinated but are not required to participate," the health care provider did state. Ironically, Providence Hospital System claims to be an organization that welcomes and provides care and support to all, "especially those who are poor and vulnerable." So much for freedom of choice. The further irony in all this is that pretty much all vaccines, COVID jabs included, contain ingredients derived from aborted babies. The Roman Catholic Church has long stood against abortion, so why is one of its most prominent and well-known heath care systems forcing employees to take shots that involves baby murder? "If you work at a job that wants to kill you, you owe it to yourself and your family to get a new job," one commenter wrote. "These people are completely insane!" "It's time to overwhelm them with lawsuits," responded another. "Providence doctors, nurses, and other employees should simply walk out, effectively closing down those medical centers," suggested another. "There are plenty of health care jobs out there." Numerous others noted the convenient timing of all this as COVID 2.0 seems to be arriving right on schedule, just in time for the 2024 presidential election. "The 'new' virus is COVID MIB the Mail In Ballot virus," one joked. "And the '24 steal continues." "Liberals don't care what you do as long as it's mandatory," joked another. "Here's a real scary thought: Any hospital that would force vaccination makes me believe they'd vaccinate patients without consent," expressed another out of concern. "Especially those under sedation." When it comes to COVID jab mandates, do not comply. Learn more at ChemicalViolence.com. Sources for this article include: TheGatewayPundit.com NaturalNews.com Royal familys 175-year hunting lease in Scotland estate comes to an end The royal family of the United Kingdom has officially been banned from a 175-year-old tradition of deer stalking, fishing or hunting at the five-century-old Abergeldie Estate in Scotland. Since 1852, the British Royal Family has been enjoying the privilege of hunting on the grounds of the Abergeldie Estate, near the royal property of Balmoral Castle in Aberdeenshire. The then-owner of Abergeldie, the powerful Gordon clan of Highland Scottish descent, granted hunting and sporting rights to then-monarch Queen Victoria and her family. But in 2020, after the death of the head of the Gordon family, John Gordon, 21st Baron of Abergeldie, the estate went up for sale. Around a year later in 2021, Scottish businessman and catering mogul Alistair Dunbar Storey, who founded the catering company Westbury Street Holdings in 2000, paid over 23 million British pounds ($28.49 million) for the estate. Since the takeover of the estate by its new "laird," or owner, the lease the royal family had on sporting and hunting on the grounds has ceased. It is believed that there is no bitterness between the new owner and the royal family over the decision. (Related: ROYAL RESET: King Charles III plans to accelerate the Great Reset and other globalist goals.) Before it changed ownership, the Abergeldie Estate was owned by the Gordon family for over 500 years since the property was bestowed to the Gordons in 1482. The last few decades of the Gordon family's ownership of the estate caused some financial difficulty for the family. In the late 1990s, the Gordon family increased the leasing fee on the estate. Fortunately for the clan, the late Queen Elizabeth II was willing to pay the additional sum for the right to keep using the grounds for hunting. "The original lease was negotiated with Queen Victoria," remarked an estate worker at the time the new leasing fee was negotiated with the royal family. "If she had offered a penny for the land, she would have got it. It's different today, of course, people are not quite so servile." The massive estate is home to 34 houses, cottages, lodges and farmhouses but does not include the famous Abergeldie Castle, located around two miles away. New owner plans to radically transform Abergeldie Estate The Abergeldie Estate's new owner, the 70-year-old Storey, has confirmed plans to "transform" buildings on the 11,512-acre estate into private accommodations and hunting lodges. "For the last 175 years the royal family have leased the sporting rights at Abergeldie but this has now ceased and will be actively run by the new Laird," reads the planning documents filed with the Aberdeenshire Council. "To facilitate the transformation and to effectively run the estate, new facilities will be required." Storey has hired local Scottish architecture firm WCP Architects, which on behalf of the estate has applied to the Aberdeenshire Council to make changes to the iconic Clachanturn Farmhouse and other historic buildings on the vast grounds. The planning documents show that Storey wants to launch shooting expeditions from the farm and that the new and renovated buildings in and around the historic ones like the farmhouse will "facilitate accommodation for the running of the estate and will include a social space for paying visitors to support the sporting activities on the estate." Watch the following video about the connection between King Charles and the World Economic Forum's Great Reset agenda. This video is from the In4mation channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Prince Harry claims in memoir that he was bred to supply Prince William with spare organs. King of globalists: Charles III is a key figure behind WEF thats pushing the Great Reset. Prince William argues for urgent depopulation efforts in Africa. Sources include: WesternJournal.com NYPost.com Telegraph.co.uk GBNews.com Brighteon.com Secret Pfizer report shows company KNEW since February 2021 that its mRNA COVID jab was killing people Unbeknownst to most, a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request from back in 2021 produced what has come to be known as the "Confidential Pfizer Report," showing that the vaccine giant has known all along that its Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) jab is deadly. The mRNA injection caused more than 1,200 reported deaths and tens of thousands of reported adverse events, that we know of, just within the first two months of its release in mid-December 2020. There were also 23 reported cases of spontaneous abortions out of 270 pregnancies and more than 2,000 reports of cardiac disorders. Pfizer received all these reports by the end of February 2021, and the company itself confirmed that its jabs are responsible for "manslaughter." Based on this evidence, Pfizer had a responsibility at that time under the law to immediately withdraw the injection, but it did no such thing. Instead, Pfizer would go on to inject hundreds of millions of people all around the world with its mRNA injections. And once again, thanks to approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and acceptance by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Pfizer is once again mass-injecting the public with even more mRNA shots. Read the full Pfizer report in its entirety at this link. (Related: Did you know that Pfizer's mRNA COVID jabs shed onto the unvaccinated?) Pfizer isn't just guilty of "manslaughter" the company is committing GENOCIDE with criminal intent Had Pfizer immediately withdrawn its mRNA shots at the end of February 2021 after it received all these reports, then the "manslaughter" designation may have been applicable, depending on how the revelation was handled. Because Pfizer has continued to distribute and administer them, this now falls into the category of mass genocide. "Murder as opposed to manslaughter implies 'criminal intent,'" reports Global Research. "Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine constitutes a criminal act. From a legal standpoint, it is an 'act of murder' applied worldwide to a target population of 8 billion people. So far, more than 60 percent of the world's population has been COVID-19 vaccinated." According to the pharmacovigilance agreement currently in place, Pfizer is fully responsible for managing all post-authorization safety data on behalf of BioNTech, its COVID jab partner, which makes that company complicit in mass genocide as well. In less than three months following the official launch of Operation Warp Speed by the Trump administration, there was a total of 42,086 case reports (25,379 medically confirmed and 16,707 non-medically confirmed) containing 158,893 events," Global Research explains. "Most cases (34,762) were received from United States (13,739), United Kingdom (13,404) Italy (2,578), Germany (1913), France (1506), Portugal (866) and Spain (756); the remaining 7,324 were distributed among 56 other countries." Since all of this data is official, and fully outlined in a report from Pfizer itself, it is undeniable. This is not some conspiracy theory, in other words. Based on this, there is now plenty of evidence to formulate legal procedures against not just Pfizer and BioNTech but also government agencies like the FDA and CDC, as well as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the mass media. Check out the following interview with Caroline Mailloux of Lux Media and Prof. Michel Chossudovsky as they discuss the "secret" Pfizer report and what the general public can do now to hold Big Pharma, Big Government, and Big Media responsible for perpetrating this mass genocide on the world: "This is a de facto mea culpa on the part of Pfizer," Global Research concludes. "Yes, it is a killer vaccine." "It is also a mea culpa and treason on the part of corrupt national governments worldwide which are being threatened and bribed by Big Pharma." The latest news about COVID 2.0 can be found at Vaccines.news Sources for this article include: GlobalResearch.ca Phmpt.org NaturalNews.com Mark Zuckerbergs Threads censors COVID-related searches to DISCONNECT people from knowledge Threads, the latest text-based social media platform made by tech giant Meta, is now stopping terms connected to the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) and vaccines on its search engines. The social media platform carried out its renovated search engine last week, only for users to be greeted with a blank screen and a pop-up linking to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website when they type terms connected to "covid" or "long covid." Threads also blocked words like "coronavirus," "vaccines" and "vaccination" in its search engine, alongside more explicit search queries. In a statement, a Meta spokesperson said the platform's recently updated search engine "temporarily doesn't provide results" for words that may contain "sensitive content." "We just began rolling out keyword search for Threads to additional countries last week. The search functionality temporarily doesn't provide results for keywords that may show potentially sensitive content," they stated. "People will be able to search for keywords such as 'COVID' in future updates once we are confident in the quality of the results." The decision by Meta, headed by its CEO Mark Zuckerberg, arrives as COVID-19 has been increasing in the United States. Hospitalizations from the virus soared to 16 percent last week and have been steadily surging since July, based on data from the CDC. Public healthcare workers blast move to block COVID-related searches Threads started in early July in an attempt to take advantage of people's disappointment with Elon Musk's X, the site previously known as Twitter, and succeeded in getting 100 million sign-ups within five days of going live. (Related: Battle of Tech Titans: Zuckerbergs Threads trying to dethrone Musks Twitter (but is failing miserably.)) Released earlier this summer, the platform has been rolling out several much-requested updates in recent weeks, including launching a desktop version and search functionality. But according to Huffington Post, Threads' decision to block COVID-related searches illustrates Metas desire to avoid elevating any topics that could be deemed "hard news" on the platform. "Politics and hard news are inevitably going to show up on Threads," said Instagram head Adam Mosseri. "They have on Instagram as well to some extent, but we're not going to do anything to encourage those verticals." Mosseri, who helms the photo sharing platform, has also been involved in the inauguration of Threads. Meanwhile, public healthcare workers denounced Meta's decision to block COVID-related searches. Julia Doubleday, outreach director for the World Health Network Outreach, was among those critical of the move. According to her, social media is critical to patients who are searching for more information about their current illness diagnosis. "Long COVID patients have died of organ failure, infections, cardiac events and more, and social media is one place they can share information," said Doubleday. "Cutting off communication between suffering and disabled patients is cruel in the extreme. It's indefensible." Visit MetaTyranny.com for more stories about Threads and others platforms under Mark Zuckerberg's Meta. Watch this video about why Elon Musk's X threatened to sue Mark Zuckerberg's Threads over alleged theft of data and company secrets. This video is from the SecureLife channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: New app, same old story: Meta's Threads accused of mass censorship and data harvesting. Meta's Threads hits 100M users a week after its launch, but immediately begins censoring "wrongthink." Big Tech and U.S. government using AI to CENSOR POSTS on social media that counter their fake narratives. SMOKING GUN: Rep. Jim Jordan presents evidence showing how the Biden administration pressured Zuckerberg's Meta to censor Americans. Google unveils new "fact-checking tools" meant to censor and keep independent media out of search results. Sources include: TheHill.com HuffPost.com Brighteon.com As the search for the victims of the deadly flood in Libya entered its sixth day, more bodies were recovered from the sea. The World Health Organization said that 3,958 bodies have been recovered and identified, while 9,000 more are still missing. The flood submerged Derna, driving hundreds of people and homes out to sea when two upstream dams burst under the impact of the hurricane-force storm's relentless rainfall. Officials estimated the overall death toll at more than 11,000 people, despite conflicting reports. "We are saddened by the unspeakable loss of thousands of souls. Our thoughts are with the families who have lost loved ones, as well as with all of the affected communities. We are committed to providing the necessary support to restore health services for the affected population in eastern Libya," said Dr. Ahmed Zouiten, WHO Representative in Libya. Read Also: Libya: Immediate Probe On Flood Cause Urged; Shortage of Body Bags Felt International aid The WHO announced the arrival of 29 tons of assistance in the eastern city of Benghazi, enough to help 250,000 people. Essential medicines, trauma and emergency surgery supplies, and medical equipment are among the supplies donated. There are also body bags for the deceased's safe and respectful movement and burial. Saudi Arabia reported the departure of its first aid flight to Libya, while Russia confirmed the arrival of the third of its relief planes, bringing a mobile hospital. The Italian Embassy in Libya said an Italian naval ship has docked in Derna with supplies including tents, blankets, water pumps, and tractors. Second humanitarian crisis Aid organizations such as Islamic Relief and Doctors Without Borders (MSF) have cautioned that the approaching time may see the development of disease as well as significant challenges in getting aid to the most vulnerable people. Following the flood, Islamic Relief warned of a "second humanitarian crisis," citing the "growing risk of water-borne diseases and shortages of food, shelter, and medicine." Salad Aboulgasem, the organization's deputy director of partner development, said that thousands of people do not have anywhere to sleep and they also do not have any food. Aboulgasem noted that in conditions like this, diseases can quickly spread as water systems are contaminated. "The city smells like death. Almost everyone has lost someone they know," Aboulgasem said. The MSF announced the deployment of experts to eastern Libya to assess water and sanitation. According to the United Nations, over 1,000 victims have been buried in mass graves, prompting warnings from relief organizations about the potential of contaminating water or inflicting mental pain on the families of the deceased. Hayder Al-Sayah, the head of Libya's National Centre for Disease Control, said corpses posed minimal concern unless they were carrying diseases. But the reported cases of diarrhea had climbed to 150 from 55 on Friday due to people drinking polluted water. Libyan authorities have mainly closed off Derna to the residents in order to give room to emergency assistance personnel and to prevent standing water from being contaminated. Only search and rescue personnel are permitted to enter the flood-affected areas of town. Many residents have already voluntarily departed the community. Related Article: Libya Flood Death Toll May Reach 20,000; Survivors Plagued With Food Shortage Related Video: Weather agencies are monitoring Tropical Storm Nigel, which will likely become a hurricane in the coming days. Nigel is forecasted to bring rough sea conditions over the Bermuda midweek. The latest forecast said that Nigel would not cause any threat to the US this week. However, it is too early to predict Tropical Storm Nigel's landfall. Tropical Storm Nigel: What to expect from the storm? As of September 16, the forecast said that Tropical Storm Nigel was tracked over Bermuda with maximum sustained winds of 70 mph. In the midweek, rip currents and challenging waves are expected in the region. Shipping vessels are advised to check the weather outlook. Tropical Storm Nigel was seen to strengthen rapidly. It can likely become a hurricane tonight, moving towards the Central Atlantic in a few days. Nigel became a Tropical Depression before becoming a tropical storm. Nigel could become the 14th hurricane to reach the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season. The forecast said it was too early to determine the storm impacts, especially in the US. The warmer ocean temperatures could play a significant role in the rapid development of the hurricane. However, forecasters noted that the developing hurricane could affect parts of the US East Coast. They were monitoring the potential impacts on the US soil, Meanwhile, the National Weather Service (NWS) was looking into the Eastern Tropical Atlantic and Western Atlantic. As of September 18, a tropical wave was detected over Africa's west Coast. The tropical waves could likely develop in the late week or next weekend. Meanwhile, a low-pressure area over the US's southeast Coast could develop in the late week. Also Read: Hurricane Lee Updates: Heavy Rain To Hit in Eastern Maine, Western Nova Scotia Post-Tropical Cyclone Lee Last week, the US experienced the impacts of Hurricane Lee that unleashed deadly heavy rainfall in Eastern Maine, New England, Southeastern Massachusetts and parts of Canada. As of September 17, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported that Post-Tropical Lee could still bring strong winds and rain conditions to Atlantic Canada from Southern Brunswick and Nova Scotia. In the latest Advisory 45, the weather forecast noted that tropical storm conditions could still unload on the Coast of Maine. Challenging weather outlook could still impact in the early weeks in the following areas: US East Coast Atlantic Canada Bermuda Bahamas Hispaniola Puerto Rico When Lee became a hurricane, weather agencies warned of large hurricane status. While the hurricane threat decreased this week, Americans should keep prepared for possible storms. Hurricane and storm preparations are essential to prevent the disastrous impacts of storms, especially in low-lying and hurricane-prone areas in the US. Americans should also stay updated with the weather this September. The recommended emergency kits are the following: Emergency medicine kits Battery-powered radios and flashlights Rain jackets Food supply and bottled water Extra batteries and power banks Related Article: Hurricane Margot Developments: No Threat to US Land Expected This Week For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature World News. Heavy rain and chances of thunderstorms are possible in New England, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah and Arizona, according to the latest forecasts. Motorists with travel plans should monitor the latest forecasts in the early week. Stormy conditions could likely bring slower commutes and travel disruptions. The National Weather Service (NWS) monitored the developments of scattered thunderstorms and rainy outlook in the said areas. In the Northwest and Northern Plains, residents can experience cooler temperatures reaching the Lower 48. Weather forecast in Colorado As of the September 17 advisory, isolated thunderstorms and showers were possible in the North and Northeast Colorado from Monday through Saturday. The mountainous areas in Colorado could experience most of the rain. Gusty winds could accompany the rainfall. In addition, the advisory warned of the lightning this week from the thunderstorms. Motorists should limit outdoor travel when the weather worsens this week. Weather in Northeast to Southeast Utah and Arizona According to the latest forecast, Central to Southeast Utah could experience challenging rain and thunderstorms. Small hail conditions could also likely be in the early week. In Arizona, residents could anticipate cooler conditions in the early week due to isolated showers and thunderstorms. The relief can benefit people at risk of hot weather conditions. Weather in Wyoming In the early week, the NWS is monitoring the possible elevated to near-critical weather outlook. The fire could become the main concern because of the humidity and strong winds in the region, especially in South Central and Southeast Wyoming. The fire risks are likely in the following areas: Natrona Sweetwater Fremont Counties The fire risks could be low from Wednesday through Friday due to cooler weather and rain showers. Scattered storms are likely in the region on Monday in Kansas and Missouri. Also Read: Hurricane Margot Developments: No Threat to US Land Expected This Week Weather in the New England Hurricane Lee brought severe weather conditions to New England and the Northeast. This week, a coastal storm could cause possible flooding, heavy rain and flash flood risks. On Monday, heavy rain conditions are likely in the following areas: Boston New York Boston Portland Bangor Washington Burlington Buffalo Pittsburgh Detroit Columbus Charleston Virginia Beach The rainy outlook in New England could be a concern in New England. Because of the rain, cooler conditions are likely in the region. Low-lying and flood-prone areas are at risk of flooding. It is best to check the floodwaters and stay away from it regularly. Keeping safe from isolated thunderstorms and heavy rain The latest weather report highlighted the scattered thunderstorms and rain in the affected area. Staying updated with the weather is essential to keep safe from severe outlook. Although relief from rain is on the way next month, homeowners should prepare for possible hurricanes and tropical storms. In addition, keeping emergency kits at home is recommended. Related Article: Hurricane Lee Updates: Heavy Rain To Hit in Eastern Maine, Western Nova Scotia For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature World News. A volunteer seaweed removal program involving citizen scientists has resulted in a 600% increase in coral recovery off the coast of Magnetic Island in Australia. The joint Earthwatch Institute program, which has been running since 2018, was led by James Cook University Senior Research Officer Hillary Smith and Professor David Bourne (JCU and Australian Institute of Marine Science). Volunteer citizen scientists helped remove macroalgae (aka "sea-weeding") from experimental plots at two reef sites. Weeding technique The findings from the first three years of the research, published in the Journal of Applied Ecology, demonstrated that considerable regrowth was documented in parts of reef that were weeded, which is a positive sign for coral regeneration. The coral had recovered spectacularly in the places that were weeded (300 m2, or roughly 1% of the seafloor at the study site) twice or three times a year. Corals now cover 1.5 to six times the area they did previously. The researchers also noted that the seaweed has grown back less and less since the coral recovered. Originally covering 80% of the seafloor, seaweed now covers less than 40%. This shows that it may only take a few years of work to suppress the seaweed and let the coral ecosystem recover. Importantly, the diversity of coral species rose as well, indicating that weeding does not favor any specific coral species. "We have yet to see a plateau in coral growth within these plots at Magnetic Island, which is characterized as one of the degraded reefs on the Great Barrier Reef," Smith said. Volunteers utilized a hand-pulling approach to remove the seaweed from the seafloor. While corals and seaweed are both natural aspects of a reef, Smith claims that when there is widespread coral loss due to extreme weather events such as bleaching or cyclones, seaweed regrows considerably faster and outcompetes coral. As climate change and local stressors damage global reef ecosystems, many reefs across the world are seeing corals replaced by macroalgae, putting an increased emphasis on creating active management measures. Read Also: Research Investigate the Influence of Chemical Compounds Released by Corals Into Saltwater Reef restoration The researchers believed that the benefit of this study is that there is a lot of funding going into high-tech interventions for reef restoration, but access to those approaches in underdeveloped nations, where many coral reefs are located, is now limited. Smith said her team is now looking at other places where the weeding technique could be effective, such as the Whitsunday Islands, which have a different variety of prevalent seaweed. Possible locations include the reefs in Singapore and Indonesia, which have higher urban pollution, as well as French Polynesia and the Wallis and Futuna Islands, which have fishery pressures. "A project like this enables people to take ownership of their local environment and also makes them aware that there are small things they can do to help our planet," Smith said. The Earthwatch Organization is seeking volunteers to help them with their sea-weeding research that is expected to last until 2025. Related Article: Scientists are Weeding Coral Reefs to Help Lessen the Impacts of Climate Change Related Video: Prime Minister of Romania Marcel Ciolacu will appeal to the country's ministers of agriculture and economy with a request to approve a joint order to extend the ban on the import of Ukrainian agricultural products for 30 days, RFI cites a statement from the head of the Romanian government. Ciolacu said that Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal was waiting for a proposal on licensing the export of grain, which would be discussed. He added that after the decision of the European Commission not to extend the ban on Ukrainian agricultural products, "not a single kilogram of wheat was imported to Romania from Ukraine." "If there are requests for export to Romania, I will definitely ask the Minister of Agrarian Policy and the Minister of Economy to adopt a joint order that restrictions will be extended for a period of 30 days until everything is clarified. I repeat: there are no requests, and I want to assure farmers that it won't be like it was a year ago," Ciolacu assured. As reported, the European Commission announced on September 15 that it would not extend restrictions on imports of agricultural products from Ukraine, with certain conditions that would avoid a new surge in grain. Survivors in the massive floods in Libya are now in the midst of threat of epidemics and landmine risks. Residents in the flood-stricken City of Derna are thinking about whether they stay and risk acquiring a health infection or not. They also have the option to flee, however, most areas are at risk due to landmines that have been displaced by the torrents. Risk of epidemics, landmines Citing information from the Libyan Red Crescent, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that the death toll already climbed to 11,300. Still the number on the fatalities is still changing. The World Health Organization has said that there were a total of 3,950 registered deaths in hospitals and they also noted that the death toll would likely increase because the full extent of the loss of life as well as the damage is still unknown. Derna was reported to be the most affected but other areas that were adversely hit include Benghazi, Tobruk, Toukra, Talmeitha, Almarj, Taknes (AlJabal Al Akhdar), Al Owailia, Bayada, Albayda, Shahhat and Sousa. Authorities said that more than 40,000 vulnerable individuals are estimated to be displaced in the aftermath of Storm Daniel and these people have been seeking safety, shelter and basic services. The International Organization for Migration noted that the number of displaced individuals already exceeded the 30,000 initial count in the City of Derna where there is a population of more than 150,000. Displaced families are reportedly hosted by relatives in safer neighborhoods or sheltered in schools. However, they lack non-food items which exposes them to heightened protection risks. Libyan authorities said that most of the time, cases of epidemics increased after the occurrence of floods. They have confirmed that 150 people have been poisoned by polluted water in the flood-hit areas. Some volunteers already had come from Benghazi to Derna down to the coast, together with fellow medical students, to carry out disinfection and sterilization work. The OCHA said that the homeless are trying to survive by staying in makeshift shelters, schools, or they were packed into the houses of relatives or friends. It can be noticed that heavy floods had shifted landmines, which poses an extra risk to the thousands of displaced people who are currently on the move. Read Also: Libya Floods: 3,958 Bodies Recovered, Identified; 29 Tons Of Aid Arrived Disruption of aid operations Authorities also said that destroyed bridges and blocked roads have severely disrupted the local food supply chains in the affected areas as they hamper access to markets, which later cause food shortages. They pointed out that the provision of ready-to-eat meals, dry rations, and nutritional supplements for infants and young children is necessary in order to prevent malnutrition. The lack of updated reliable data on the effects of the massive inundation across the affected has been delaying the much-needed relief efforts for the storm victims. As the search and rescue operations are ongoing, a UN Flash appeal was launched with a budget of USD 71.4 million, which targets 250,000 flood-affected people out of the 884,000 people that is estimated to be in need in the next three months. Related Article: Libya: Immediate Probe On Flood Cause Urged; Shortage of Body Bags Felt Related Video: Rena Murshud Reaching an agreement on the opening of the Aghdam-Khankendi road is the next victory of Azerbaijan. Despite all efforts made by Armenia and its patrons to prevent the opening of the Aghdam-Khankendi road, all their plans botched up as usual. However, although the United States initially took a positive approach to the opening of the Aghdam-Khankendi road for the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Armenian minority living in Garabagh, it later began to act in the exact opposite direction. The strong influence of the Armenian lobby both in the United States and in France is the main factor affecting the Western side's failure to keep its word. However, in the tripartite meetings held so far, the US side has repeatedly declared that it supports peace in the Armenia-Azerbaijan issue. Despite all this, the issue of the parallel opening of the Aghdam Khankendi road and the Lachin road, which was agreed on on September 1, remains aside, even unfounded claims are being made about the imposition of sanctions by the United States against Azerbaijan. From this, it is understood that the United States, like Armenia, is pursuing a dual policy. However, despite all efforts, Azerbaijan was not dictated by external forces in its sovereign territory, but only its own laws were implemented. In this matter, the ICRC, which acts more like a Western intelligence in Azerbaijan's Garabagh region, wanted to exert political pressure on Azerbaijan, and in the end, they all had to comply with Azerbaijan's demands. That is, the experience showed once again that the Aghdam-Khankendi road can operate in parallel with the Lachin road, and this was finally implemented. The well-known political commentator, political scientist Tofig Abbasov said in his comment to AZERNEWS that it is pointless to put pressure on Azerbaijan in any processes going on in the region. Because the state of Azerbaijan is already focused on peace. "It is no coincidence that after Azerbaijan's glorious victory in the Patriotic War, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev proposed a 3+3 format to Armenia, and later a meeting in another format consisting of Turkiye, Russia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. However, instead of taking a step forward, Armenia spared no effort to further strain relations," the political scientist said. Abbasov noted that all provocation-oriented efforts of Armenia and the foreign forces supporting it could not make Azerbaijan take a step back on peace. "Despite this, Azerbaijan does not change its mind. Azerbaijan is preparing to hold peace talks with Armenia and offers reintegration to the Armenian minorities living in Garabagh. This step is considered to be a proposal that contributes to Azerbaijan, the region, and the world community. First of all, Azerbaijan does not deviate from the legitimate criteria, on the other hand, it stands guard over its territorial integrity. For example, by building a checkpoint on the Lachin-Khankendi road, Azerbaijan first of all ensures security," the expert added. Speaking about foreign forces interested in the region, the expert noted that the United States, France and even Russia approach this issue from a commercial point of view. They are trying to keep the Garabagh issue in Azerbaijan in a complicated situation. But all these are worthless attempts. Armenians do not understand that as they prolong these issues, both their government and the Armenian minority living in Garabagh suffer from it. Azerbaijan has a very clear, constructive activity that it demonstrates and will do at every step. "After Azerbaijan prevents all possible means of Armenia, provocations will be gradually dissipate. Because Armenia's defeat was sealed and signed in 2020," Tofig Abbasov stressed. Later, Tofig Abbasov spoke about ICRC, which is the only place of hope for both Armenian separatist regime in Garabagh and some foreign forces. He said that the intentions of organizations such as the ICRC have already been exposed and there is no way out for their new provocation plans. "The committee itself took a very shameful position. They entered the region under the guise of humanitarian aid and began to take political steps. This is not an action according to their charter. Because their actions are considered unacceptable in the international framework. I should note that the organization violated all the rules with its last actions and endangered the peace process. The ICRC tarnished its international image by purposefully supporting separatist forces in Garabagh. And it is no coincidence that the ICRC leadership apologized during the meeting with Azerbaijan's Minister of Foreign Affairs Jeyhun Bayramov," T.Abbasov opined. In general, the achieved results show once again that Azerbaijan, in addition to protecting its sovereignty, is also constantly aware of the ongoing processes in its territory. Azerbaijan is capable of taking its own steps at the right time, in the right direction, while monitoring every step taken against it. Ukraine has submitted requests for consultations with Poland, Slovakia and Hungary within the World Trade Organization (WTO) in accordance with the Agreement on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes, First Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine - Minister of Economy of Ukraine Yulia Svyrydenko has said. "In accordance with the Agreement on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes of the Agreement Establishing the World Trade Organization, Ukraine submitted demands for consultations with Slovakia, Poland and Hungary within the WTO. This was announced by First Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine - Minister of Economy of Ukraine Yulia Svyrydenko," the press service of the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine said on the official website on Monday evening. "It is fundamentally important for us to prove that individual member states cannot ban the import of Ukrainian goods. Therefore, we are filing lawsuits against them in the WTO. At the same time, we hope that these states will lift their restrictions, and we will not have to sort things out for a long time in courts. We need solidarity with them and protection of the interests of farmers," the press service quotes Svyrydenko. "The steps we have begun and the pressure from the European Commission and other member states will help restore normal trade between Ukraine and neighboring countries, as well as show solidarity between us," Svyrydenko explained. According to her, as a result of the unilateral ban on the import of Ukrainian agricultural products by Poland, Slovakia and Hungary, domestic exporters have already suffered and continue to suffer significant losses due to downtime, additional costs and the inability to fulfill foreign economic agreements. As noted in the report, Ukraine sees this as a violation by the three EU countries of their international obligations. The Ukrainian side also believes that unilateral actions of EU member states in the field of trade are unacceptable and all member countries of the bloc must coordinate and harmonize trade policy, since it falls under the exclusive competence of the EU. As the volume of IoT devices connecting to enterprise networks continues to climb, the number of security threats has been increasing in lockstep. Cybersecurity threats, alongside supply chain issues, chip shortages and geopolitical instability, are a major reason that IoT growth has been slower than many analysts had predicted. Even so, the scale of the IoT security problem is great enough that 52 IoT startups raised a total of $840 million in the latest quarter, and even cautious analysts believe the IoT market will grow steadily in the coming years. In fact, research firm IDC predicts that the IoT market will expand to 55.7 billion connected IoT devices by 2025, with those devices generating 80B zettabytes (ZB) of data. In response to IoT-based security threats, enterprises are turning to startups to fill gaps in their existing security infrastructure. Here are five key IoT security challenges that organizations face, and that startups can help to address. 1. The attack surface is growing Recent IoT security breaches are enough to keep any CISO awake at night. Here are just a few of the known IoT security incidents from the past few years: As troubling as those incidents are, IoT security risks could become even worse as edge computing expands into the mainstream and advanced 5G networks roll out features, such as Reduced-Capability (RedCap) 5G, that are intended to spur the accelerated adoption of enterprise IoT. With RedCap 5G, mobile devices with cellular connections, such as smart phones and watches, will be able to serve as hubs that provide ad-hoc connectivity to nearby constrained devices. While this could help streamline workflows and deliver business efficiencies, poorly secured mobile devices that automatically connect to, for instance, industrial equipment for diagnostics could also expose those devices to threats like Stuxnet-style malware that could cause the machine to self-destruct. Obviously, more endpoints mean that attackers have a greater attack surface to exploit, and security teams must manage many more risks, said IDC analyst Jason Leigh. There is a saving grace, however, that may inadvertently limit IoT risks. With constrained devices, its difficult to get complex malware through them, Leigh said. Additionally, new networking specifications [such as 5.5G] include details about security components that can be deployed at the network level to reduce risks, Leigh said. New specifications will help, but attackers are already targeting IoT networks, meaning that organizations must act now to mitigate risks. Many organizations find that they need to engage new vendors to solve this problem. 2. A fractured market means IoT visibility is getting worse One of the most common cybersecurity credos is that you cant secure what you cant see. The fractured nature of the IoT market exacerbates the issue. With no single vendor claiming more than a 3% market share, according to IoT Analytics, interoperability and visibility are two major challenges to improved IoT security. At Dayton Childrens Hospital a $600 million pediatric network with an acute care teaching hospital, two primary campuses, and another 20 ambulatory care sites IoT, Internet of Medical Things (IoMT), and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) proliferated over the past decade as the organization grew. The hospitals IT staff estimates that there are now approximately 25,000 devices connected to the hospitals networks, including smart TVs, security cameras, and critical medical devices like X-ray machines, MRI machines, and robots that aid in neurosurgery. This situation is by no means unique to Dayton Childrens Hospital. IoT growth is rapid across the healthcare sector, and IT teams must figure out how to provide consistent connectivity to caregivers without undermining safety or violating various industry regulations that prioritize privacy. Mount Sinai Health System, based in New York City, also faced significant challenges when trying to boost the security of their vast network of medical equipment and IoT devices. The lack of visibility into the devices connecting to the network was a major headache. In addition, Mount Sinai had operated with separate teams responsible for biomedical and IT operations, so the lack of coordination between these teams led to limited visibility and awareness of many devices nature and purpose. As the organization sought to streamline and modernize its IT systems, Dr. Tom Mustac, senior director for cybersecurity, was frustrated by the inability to accurately identify assets using the systems existing resources. This visibility gap posed significant challenges, as IT was unable to assess a devices impact on patient care and potential network vulnerabilities. Additionally, the biomedical team was severely constrained by vendor patches, end-of-life operating systems, and non-remote upgradable devices. Mount Sinai also faced unique challenges beyond medical devices. Their diverse network environment encompassed a wide range of connected devices, including automobiles, gaming systems, and exercise equipment. Without proper context, identifying and managing these devices was a nightmare that just kept getting worse. In order to gain visibility, these healthcare organizations first had to grapple with the next challenge on our list: legacy constraints. 3. Legacy constraints are prevalent Like many large healthcare systems, both Mount Sinai and Dayton Childrens relied on Cisco infrastructure and software. Whatever IoT-specific security tools they brought on board would need to integrate into existing Cisco-based systems. We have a variety of Cisco products, and what I love is that they're designed to work with each other in a way that you can correlate if something is going on, said Nicholas Schopperth, Dayton Children's Chief Information Security Officer. Schopperth's team had already deployed Cisco Secure Network Analytics, a cloud-based network monitoring tool, and Cisco Umbrella, a SASE service. But to secure and manage IoT, IoMT, and BYOD , Dayton Childrens security team needed help finding and classifying devices, managing IoT/IoMT flows, and deciphering communication patterns to identify anomalies. The cybersecurity team at Mount Sinai faced a similar challenge, relying on Cisco ISE (Identity Services Engine) to handle network access control. However, Mount Sinai needed another tool to help it identify, classify, and monitor the devices moving in and out of its network. Both organizations knew they would need to bring in new technologies, but they prioritized finding ones that would interoperate with existing networking and security systems. 4. Controlling IoT access without impeding business goals Both Dayton Childrens and Mount Sinai turned to different startups that provide IoT security integration with Cisco infrastructure. Dayton Childrens selected the IoT security platform from Ordr, a Santa Clara-based startup that was founded in 2015, while Mount Sinai chose the security platform from Claroty, a New York-based startup that was also founded in 2015. Dayton Childrens used Ordrs Connected Device Security software to identify device contexts, baseline normal device communications flows, and perform behavioral analytics of both devices and users. Dayton Childrens cybersecurity team then used this tool to generate policies and access controls that could be automated and enforced using Cisco ISE on Cisco wireless controllers and firewalls. By moving to a zero-trust architecture, Dayton Childrens is now able to segment its devices and only allow them to connect to specific VLANs, limiting access between devices as well as device access to the network. Mount Sinai pursued a similar strategy, deploying Medigate, a healthcare IoT security platform recently acquired by Claroty, and integrating it with Cisco ISE. With Medigate, Mount Sinai gains insights into device behavior, communication patterns, and potential policy violations. Medigates continuous monitoring and violation detection helps Mount Sinai actively monitor application dependencies and ownership, enhancing their ability to assess potential risks and implement proactive measures. The IoT visibility tools enable Mount Sinai to monitors traffic, identify ports and protocols, and learn what applications are installed on IoT devices. This allows Mount Sinai to be situationally aware of and to apply policies to any new device. The IT team can also segment the network from newly discovered, unmanaged devices. Next, Medigate automates policy creation and enforcement by defining typical device behaviors, monitoring traffic, and identifying communication patterns. These patterns are used to create policies and best practices, and once approved, they are transferred to Cisco ISE for enforcement. Our integration with Medigate and Cisco has allowed us to enforce stringent security policies across our network, preventing unauthorized access and ensuring the integrity of our critical clinical systems, Dr. Mustac said. These protections ensure that only authorized communications occur between devices and clinical systems, so Mount Sinai can prioritize patient safety without impeding critical clinical communication necessary for effective care delivery. 5. Trusted/untrusted partners Insider risks have long been one of the most difficult cybersecurity threats to mitigate. Not only can power users, such as C-level executives, overrule IT policies, but partners and contractors often get streamlined access to corporate resources, and may unintentionally introduce risks in the name of expediency. As IoT continues to encompass such devices as life-saving medical equipment and self-driving vehicles, even small risks can metastasize into major security incidents. For San Francisco-based self-driving car startup Cruise, a way to mitigate the many risks associated with connected cars is to conduct thorough risk assessments of partners and suppliers. The trouble is that third-party assessments were such a time-consuming and cumbersome chore that the existing process was not able to scale as the company grew. The rise in cloud puts a huge stress on understanding the risk posture of our partners. That is a complex and non-trivial thing. Partnerships are always under pressure, said Alexander Hughes, Director of Information Security, Trust, and Assurance at Cruise. Cruise is backed by $10B in funding from General Motors, Honda, Microsoft, SoftBank, T. Rowe Price, Walmart, and others, but even with eye-popping amounts of funding, as Cruise scaled up its manufacturing, the company struggled to manage a growing ecosystem of suppliers. With limited personnel, the cybersecurity team was under constant pressure to review new vendors. Turnaround times got longer and longer, eventually cascading to slow down other security reviews, as well. Cruise chose the IoT security platform from VISO TRUST, a startup founded in 2016, based in San Geronimo, CA. The VISO TRUST risk management platform automates manual risk management tasks. Using AI and machine learning, the VISO TRUST platform has helped Cruise reduce manual assessments, cut overall assessment times in half, and shorten the turnaround time to onboard new vendors. VISO Trust has completely automated the [security review] process, allowing us to reduce staff expenses by 90% and improve time to complete by 50% while supporting 117% more vendor assessments, Hughes said. For the foreseeable future, IoT security, like the IoT market in general, will be a complicated problem with no simple, single-vendor solution. Organizations would be wise strengthen protections with existing vendors, and then tap into those vendors partner ecosystems. Startup partners are often laser-focused on industry-specific IoT security issues, and the solutions that interoperate with what you already have typically will offer the highest, quickest ROI. _______________________________________________________________ (Jeff Vance is an IDG contributing writer and the founder of Startup50.com, a site that discovers, analyzes, and ranks tech startups. Follow him on Twitter, @JWVance, or connect with him on LinkedIn.) Canada will contribute CAD 33 million ($24.5 million) to a UK-led partnership that will purchase additional air defense equipment for Ukraine, Reuters said on Sunday, citing Canadian National Defense Minister William Blair. In a statement, Blair said the contribution was part of the CAD 500 million military aid to Kyiv announced by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in June. According to the statement, since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion in February 2022, Ottawa has provided more than CAD 8 billion in aid, including about CAD 1.8 billion in military aid. The partnership, which also includes the United States, the Netherlands and Denmark, aims to purchase hundreds of short- and medium-range air defense missiles and related systems. By Express News Service BHOPAL: Eyeing to create a place for itself in the assembly poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, the Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) continues to focus on the states Vindhya region which was ruling BJPs bright spot in rather dismal 2018 polls. The party which is in power in Delhi and Punjab, held its second poll rally in the Vindhya region within a month. The two CMs, Delhi CM and AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann addressed an impressive rally in Rewa district, 28 days after a similar rally in the adjoining Satna district of the same region, which is bordered by UP. While Congresss state president Kamal Nath has spelt 11 poll guarantees, the AAP head Arvind Kejriwal announced 10 poll guarantees to people of MP, on the lines of Delhi and Punjab. The ten poll guarantees include uninterrupted free electricity and waiving off of all outstanding electricity bills up to October 31, free government school education for all and upgrading government schools to better than private schools, controlling fee structure of private schools, free medical treatment at government hospitals and Mohalla Clinics across MP, uprooting corruption, government jobs to all (turning ad hoc employees/teachers into permanent employees) and Rs 3000 monthly unemployment allowance to jobless till they get jobs. The ten poll guarantees also include a free pilgrimage to the elderly in fully AC trains, Rs 1 crore honorarium to police, paramilitary and defence personnel martyred in the course of duty and maximum compensation to farmers for damaged crops and due prices for their crops. Dont fall in the trap of any other political partys guarantee, they all are fake. The only true guarantees come from us, which has been already proved in Delhi and Punjab, Kejriwal said. While narrating Shah Rukh Khans dialogue from the recent Bollywood movie Jawan, Kejriwal asked the people not to any longer vote for parties who seek votes in name of caste and religion, but to uproot BJP and Congress from MP by voting for AAPs honest politics, just like Delhi and Punjab. Attacking the Narendra Modi government for exploring the possibility of One Nation One Election (all polls at one time) in the country, the Delhi CM said, My take is that there should be elections every month to keep the politicians under control of people. Instead of One Nation One Election, there should be One Nation One Education and One Nation One Ilaaj to ensure that irrespective of income, everyone gets the same education and medical treatment in the country. Addressing the rally, Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann asked people of MP to call people in Punjab to know the wonders done for the people in the northern state by the AAP government in 18 months. Weve just completed 18 months in power in Punjab, I appeal to all of you to compare the 18 months of AAP governance in Punjab with 18 years of BJPs rule in MP. This was AAPs third rally in the poll-bound central Indian state in three months after the July rally in Gwalior and the August 21 rally in Satna. Importantly, AAP is particularly zeroing in upon the Gwalior-Chambal, Bundelkhand and Vindhya regions (all bordering UP) in its efforts to make an entry into the MP Vidhan Sabha. Six of the ten candidates named in the 10-strong first list of the broom symbol party are for seats of the three regions bordering UP and Rajasthan (including two candidates for Vindhya region seats). Importantly, AAP had contested 208 out of the 230 seats in MP in the 2018 polls but polled just around one per cent votes. In the 2022 local body polls in MP, the AAP, polled 6.3 per cent votes, winning the mayors post in Singrauli in the Vindhya region. While 52 of its candidates were elected municipal councillors, 10 district panchayat members and 47 village sarpanch across the state. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp BHOPAL: Eyeing to create a place for itself in the assembly poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, the Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) continues to focus on the states Vindhya region which was ruling BJPs bright spot in rather dismal 2018 polls. The party which is in power in Delhi and Punjab, held its second poll rally in the Vindhya region within a month. The two CMs, Delhi CM and AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann addressed an impressive rally in Rewa district, 28 days after a similar rally in the adjoining Satna district of the same region, which is bordered by UP. While Congresss state president Kamal Nath has spelt 11 poll guarantees, the AAP head Arvind Kejriwal announced 10 poll guarantees to people of MP, on the lines of Delhi and Punjab.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The ten poll guarantees include uninterrupted free electricity and waiving off of all outstanding electricity bills up to October 31, free government school education for all and upgrading government schools to better than private schools, controlling fee structure of private schools, free medical treatment at government hospitals and Mohalla Clinics across MP, uprooting corruption, government jobs to all (turning ad hoc employees/teachers into permanent employees) and Rs 3000 monthly unemployment allowance to jobless till they get jobs. The ten poll guarantees also include a free pilgrimage to the elderly in fully AC trains, Rs 1 crore honorarium to police, paramilitary and defence personnel martyred in the course of duty and maximum compensation to farmers for damaged crops and due prices for their crops. Dont fall in the trap of any other political partys guarantee, they all are fake. The only true guarantees come from us, which has been already proved in Delhi and Punjab, Kejriwal said. While narrating Shah Rukh Khans dialogue from the recent Bollywood movie Jawan, Kejriwal asked the people not to any longer vote for parties who seek votes in name of caste and religion, but to uproot BJP and Congress from MP by voting for AAPs honest politics, just like Delhi and Punjab. Attacking the Narendra Modi government for exploring the possibility of One Nation One Election (all polls at one time) in the country, the Delhi CM said, My take is that there should be elections every month to keep the politicians under control of people. Instead of One Nation One Election, there should be One Nation One Education and One Nation One Ilaaj to ensure that irrespective of income, everyone gets the same education and medical treatment in the country. Addressing the rally, Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann asked people of MP to call people in Punjab to know the wonders done for the people in the northern state by the AAP government in 18 months. Weve just completed 18 months in power in Punjab, I appeal to all of you to compare the 18 months of AAP governance in Punjab with 18 years of BJPs rule in MP. This was AAPs third rally in the poll-bound central Indian state in three months after the July rally in Gwalior and the August 21 rally in Satna. Importantly, AAP is particularly zeroing in upon the Gwalior-Chambal, Bundelkhand and Vindhya regions (all bordering UP) in its efforts to make an entry into the MP Vidhan Sabha. Six of the ten candidates named in the 10-strong first list of the broom symbol party are for seats of the three regions bordering UP and Rajasthan (including two candidates for Vindhya region seats). Importantly, AAP had contested 208 out of the 230 seats in MP in the 2018 polls but polled just around one per cent votes. In the 2022 local body polls in MP, the AAP, polled 6.3 per cent votes, winning the mayors post in Singrauli in the Vindhya region. While 52 of its candidates were elected municipal councillors, 10 district panchayat members and 47 village sarpanch across the state. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Rajesh Asnani By Express News Service JAIPUR: With elections in Rajasthan barely three months away, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot is set to launch a special political Yatra spanning 13 districts of eastern Rajasthan. Gehlot's five-day Jan Ashirwad Yatra is scheduled to commence on September 25th and will be specifically focused on the regions intended to be covered by the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP). The project's primary aim is to provide drinking water to 13 districts in east Rajasthan, but it has faced significant delays due to ongoing disputes between the Central and State governments. Clearly, Gehlot and the government are gearing up to escalate the ERCP issue in the run-up to the Rajasthan elections. Rajasthan Pradesh Congress President Govind Singh Dotasara shared that meetings and street gatherings would take place at various locations during the yatra. Taking a swipe at Prime Minister Modi's visit to Rajasthan on September 25th, Dotasara commented that Modi had not delivered on any promises so far. Dotasara added, "PM Modi had promised to declare ERCP in Ajmer and Jaipur as a national project during the elections, but he reneged on this promise. If he makes any announcement regarding this sooner or later, it will be a sign of his acknowledgement; otherwise, he remains in election mode. The public has now grasped the reality that it's a government of rhetoric." The five-day Jan Ashirwad Yatra in Eastern Rajasthan is set to commence from either Jaipur or Dausa. A state-of-the-art chariot is under preparation for the five-day yatra, with Chief Minister Gehlot, Dotasara, state in-charge Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, and many other leaders expected to be present. During the yatra, street meetings will be organized in different assembly constituencies, where all party leaders will commend the government's work and confront the central government on the ERCP issue. The grand finale is likely to take place in Ajmer. As the elections are approaching the political war over Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP) is sharply intensifying in Rajasthan. This ambitious project of over 40,000 crore is aimed at providing water to 13 districts of the state. On his Bharat Jodo Yatra, Rahul Gandhi attacked the Central Government for not approving it as a national project. Last week addressing a public rally in Tonk Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi also strongly criticised the central government regarding the ERCP issue, asserting, "The central government is not sincerely addressing your concerns, burdening the state government in the process. It's crucial to vote thoughtfully in the upcoming elections. Why is the central government silent on ERCP? Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot alleges that despite the electoral promise made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019, his government is doing nothing but misleading the people on this major issue. However, BJP claims that it is the Congress government who is misleading the public and the Gehlot government hasn't proposed or implemented it as they had envisioned, despite their 50% contribution." Consequently, the Congress party intends to directly target PM Modi and Union Minister Shekhawat during the Jan Ashirwad Yatra, using the ERCP issue as a focal point. Through this approach, Congress aims to garner support in the 86 assembly constituencies by holding PM Modi and Shekhawat accountable. It's worth noting that Eastern Rajasthan has traditionally been a stronghold for the Congress party, largely due to the support of the Gurjar community, who openly backed Congress because of Sachin Pilot. In the last election, out of 39 assembly seats in East Rajasthan, Congress secured 25, BSP won 5, Independents claimed 4, and RLD secured one seat, while BJP managed only 4 seats. The BSP subsequently merged with Congress, and Congress also enjoys the support of RLD and independent candidates. Given the Gurjar community's discontent with Congress for not appointing Sachin Pilot as the Chief Minister, it remains to be seen how effective Chief Minister Gehlot's efforts to reach out to this region will be in the upcoming election. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp JAIPUR: With elections in Rajasthan barely three months away, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot is set to launch a special political Yatra spanning 13 districts of eastern Rajasthan. Gehlot's five-day Jan Ashirwad Yatra is scheduled to commence on September 25th and will be specifically focused on the regions intended to be covered by the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP). The project's primary aim is to provide drinking water to 13 districts in east Rajasthan, but it has faced significant delays due to ongoing disputes between the Central and State governments. Clearly, Gehlot and the government are gearing up to escalate the ERCP issue in the run-up to the Rajasthan elections. Rajasthan Pradesh Congress President Govind Singh Dotasara shared that meetings and street gatherings would take place at various locations during the yatra. Taking a swipe at Prime Minister Modi's visit to Rajasthan on September 25th, Dotasara commented that Modi had not delivered on any promises so far. Dotasara added, "PM Modi had promised to declare ERCP in Ajmer and Jaipur as a national project during the elections, but he reneged on this promise. If he makes any announcement regarding this sooner or later, it will be a sign of his acknowledgement; otherwise, he remains in election mode. The public has now grasped the reality that it's a government of rhetoric." The five-day Jan Ashirwad Yatra in Eastern Rajasthan is set to commence from either Jaipur or Dausa. A state-of-the-art chariot is under preparation for the five-day yatra, with Chief Minister Gehlot, Dotasara, state in-charge Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, and many other leaders expected to be present. During the yatra, street meetings will be organized in different assembly constituencies, where all party leaders will commend the government's work and confront the central government on the ERCP issue. The grand finale is likely to take place in Ajmer.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); As the elections are approaching the political war over Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP) is sharply intensifying in Rajasthan. This ambitious project of over 40,000 crore is aimed at providing water to 13 districts of the state. On his Bharat Jodo Yatra, Rahul Gandhi attacked the Central Government for not approving it as a national project. Last week addressing a public rally in Tonk Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi also strongly criticised the central government regarding the ERCP issue, asserting, "The central government is not sincerely addressing your concerns, burdening the state government in the process. It's crucial to vote thoughtfully in the upcoming elections. Why is the central government silent on ERCP? Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot alleges that despite the electoral promise made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019, his government is doing nothing but misleading the people on this major issue. However, BJP claims that it is the Congress government who is misleading the public and the Gehlot government hasn't proposed or implemented it as they had envisioned, despite their 50% contribution." Consequently, the Congress party intends to directly target PM Modi and Union Minister Shekhawat during the Jan Ashirwad Yatra, using the ERCP issue as a focal point. Through this approach, Congress aims to garner support in the 86 assembly constituencies by holding PM Modi and Shekhawat accountable. It's worth noting that Eastern Rajasthan has traditionally been a stronghold for the Congress party, largely due to the support of the Gurjar community, who openly backed Congress because of Sachin Pilot. In the last election, out of 39 assembly seats in East Rajasthan, Congress secured 25, BSP won 5, Independents claimed 4, and RLD secured one seat, while BJP managed only 4 seats. The BSP subsequently merged with Congress, and Congress also enjoys the support of RLD and independent candidates. Given the Gurjar community's discontent with Congress for not appointing Sachin Pilot as the Chief Minister, it remains to be seen how effective Chief Minister Gehlot's efforts to reach out to this region will be in the upcoming election. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By Express News Service GUWAHATI: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has been bestowed with the Lee Kuan Yew Exchange Fellowship by the government of Singapore for public works and development. According to an official statement, Sarma has been invited to visit Singapore as a Lee Kuan Yew Fellow. The fellowship is conferred on individuals for their outstanding contributions to the development of their country and to bilateral relations with Singapore. The fellowship was launched as a tribute to Lee Kuan Yew, Singapores first Prime Minister for his contributions. The Patron of the Fellowship is the Prime Minister of Singapore. With this conferment, Sarma follows the league of former union minister Arun Shourie, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and former vice-chairman of Planning Commission (now NITI aayog) Montek Singh Ahluwalia, who are among the previous awardees. Meanwhile, Assam Congress president Bhupen Kumar Borah said that he will write to withdraw it. Sarma is accused of several financial scams. He has often made highly communalised statements, he said. ALSO READ | Subsidy row: Himanta's wife threatens to file Rs 10 crore defamation suit against Gaurav Gogoi Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp GUWAHATI: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has been bestowed with the Lee Kuan Yew Exchange Fellowship by the government of Singapore for public works and development. According to an official statement, Sarma has been invited to visit Singapore as a Lee Kuan Yew Fellow. The fellowship is conferred on individuals for their outstanding contributions to the development of their country and to bilateral relations with Singapore. The fellowship was launched as a tribute to Lee Kuan Yew, Singapores first Prime Minister for his contributions. The Patron of the Fellowship is the Prime Minister of Singapore.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); With this conferment, Sarma follows the league of former union minister Arun Shourie, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and former vice-chairman of Planning Commission (now NITI aayog) Montek Singh Ahluwalia, who are among the previous awardees. Meanwhile, Assam Congress president Bhupen Kumar Borah said that he will write to withdraw it. Sarma is accused of several financial scams. He has often made highly communalised statements, he said. ALSO READ | Subsidy row: Himanta's wife threatens to file Rs 10 crore defamation suit against Gaurav Gogoi Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By Express News Service BHOPAL: As the Jan Ashirwad Yatras of the ruling BJP enter the last leg in the poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, the saffron party has put to field its heavyweights for the campaigning. In the last two days, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma took part in the yatra in Katni, Guna and Harda districts, while Union Minister Smriti Irani addressed the yatra in the states largest district Chhindwara which over four decades has been state Congress chief Kamal Naths pocket-borough. Former union minister and senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad was in Guna district on Sunday, which is the home district of ex-MP CM and Rajya Sabha member Digvijaya Singh. Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh deputy CMs Devendra Fadnavis and Brijesh Pathak will join the yatras on Monday. The BJP, for a few days, has been trying to corner the Congress over the anti-Sanatan Dharm remark made by DMK leaders, Karnataka minister and Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharges son Priyank Kharge. Smriti Irani questioned the silence of former Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his family members over the controversy. Ive been told that Kamal Nath is organising events of Hindu religious preachers in Chhindwara. But if he is an ardent Hindu, he should have the courage to ask the Gandhi family to break its deliberate silence on the anti-Sanatan remarks and oust the DMK from the opposition alliance, Irani said on Saturday evening. She also mocked the INDIA bloc boycotting 14 TV anchors, questioning that if they (Opposition) are so afraid of 14 journalists, how it will face PM Narendra Modi in the next general elections? Speaking in the same tone, the Assam CM Sarma said, Abusing Hindus and their religion has become Congress style. Rahul Gandhi should have the courage to act against such leaders who insult Hindu religion. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp BHOPAL: As the Jan Ashirwad Yatras of the ruling BJP enter the last leg in the poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, the saffron party has put to field its heavyweights for the campaigning. In the last two days, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma took part in the yatra in Katni, Guna and Harda districts, while Union Minister Smriti Irani addressed the yatra in the states largest district Chhindwara which over four decades has been state Congress chief Kamal Naths pocket-borough. Former union minister and senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad was in Guna district on Sunday, which is the home district of ex-MP CM and Rajya Sabha member Digvijaya Singh.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh deputy CMs Devendra Fadnavis and Brijesh Pathak will join the yatras on Monday. The BJP, for a few days, has been trying to corner the Congress over the anti-Sanatan Dharm remark made by DMK leaders, Karnataka minister and Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharges son Priyank Kharge. Smriti Irani questioned the silence of former Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his family members over the controversy. Ive been told that Kamal Nath is organising events of Hindu religious preachers in Chhindwara. But if he is an ardent Hindu, he should have the courage to ask the Gandhi family to break its deliberate silence on the anti-Sanatan remarks and oust the DMK from the opposition alliance, Irani said on Saturday evening. She also mocked the INDIA bloc boycotting 14 TV anchors, questioning that if they (Opposition) are so afraid of 14 journalists, how it will face PM Narendra Modi in the next general elections? Speaking in the same tone, the Assam CM Sarma said, Abusing Hindus and their religion has become Congress style. Rahul Gandhi should have the courage to act against such leaders who insult Hindu religion. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Sudhir Suryawanshi By Express News Service MUMBAI: After the Supreme Courts order of giving one week for submission in disqualifications of Shiv Sena MLAs including Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde, the BJP may go for its plan B to elevate deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar as chief minister of Maharashtra for the stable government. The Supreme Court has expressed displeasure over the indefinite delay by the speaker of the Maharashtra state legislative assembly over the hearing of 34 petitions and disqualifications of a total of 56 MLAs that also including CM Eknath Shinde. The apex court stated within the week, the speaker has to submit the progress report and after two weeks, the court will hear the same matter and take the decisions. The highly placed sources said that the top leadership of the BJP is assessing the Supreme Courts order and current political situation. If disqualification of Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde is inevitable, then we have to execute plan B as it was earlier anticipated in May after the Supreme Court order of asking the speaker of Maharashtra state legislative assembly to hear the disqualifications plea in a reasonable time. The court has expressed displeasure over this delay hence the court may not give more time. In such situations, the BJP has to execute the plan B elevation of Ajit Pawar as chief minister of Maharashtra as he also has the support of a total of 43 NCP MLAs so the government will complete the remaining period, he added, requesting anonymity. However, Rahul Narvekar, speaker of Maharashtra state legislative assembly downplayed the Supreme Courts remarks and said the court has recognized the power and authority of the constitutional post like the speaker and asked to take decisions over it. He said that he had already started the process. We will not delay the hearing over disqualifications of Shiv Sena MLAs, but we will also ensure that the matter will not be heard hurriedly as well. The adequate time will be taken, Narvekar said. Another senior BJP leader said that if they do not execute plan B or any rescue plan, then the Supreme Court may be compelled to use its special power under Article 226 and Article 32 to adjudicate the disqualifications petitions as the speaker failed to do so in a given time period. Earlier, Uddhav Thackeray had asked the Supreme Court to use its special power but the court refused saying its not an extraordinary situation. Now, the question before the top BJP leadership is whether to allow the Supreme Court to disqualify Shiv Sena MLAs including CM Eknath Shinde or ask speaker Rahul Narvekar to follow the Supreme Court order in letter and spirit. If both things are not done, then the third option before BJP is to dissolve the government in advance and go for the fresh Maharashtra state assembly elections along with 2024 Lok Sabha. We will have a meeting soon, then the final call over it will be taken, said a senior BJP leader requesting anonymity. He added the elevation of Ajit Pawar as CM will also have a big risk like Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde and disqualifications for him and his MLAs. But we can buy the time and do many things in the meantime, he added. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp MUMBAI: After the Supreme Courts order of giving one week for submission in disqualifications of Shiv Sena MLAs including Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde, the BJP may go for its plan B to elevate deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar as chief minister of Maharashtra for the stable government. The Supreme Court has expressed displeasure over the indefinite delay by the speaker of the Maharashtra state legislative assembly over the hearing of 34 petitions and disqualifications of a total of 56 MLAs that also including CM Eknath Shinde. The apex court stated within the week, the speaker has to submit the progress report and after two weeks, the court will hear the same matter and take the decisions. The highly placed sources said that the top leadership of the BJP is assessing the Supreme Courts order and current political situation.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); If disqualification of Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde is inevitable, then we have to execute plan B as it was earlier anticipated in May after the Supreme Court order of asking the speaker of Maharashtra state legislative assembly to hear the disqualifications plea in a reasonable time. The court has expressed displeasure over this delay hence the court may not give more time. In such situations, the BJP has to execute the plan B elevation of Ajit Pawar as chief minister of Maharashtra as he also has the support of a total of 43 NCP MLAs so the government will complete the remaining period, he added, requesting anonymity. However, Rahul Narvekar, speaker of Maharashtra state legislative assembly downplayed the Supreme Courts remarks and said the court has recognized the power and authority of the constitutional post like the speaker and asked to take decisions over it. He said that he had already started the process. We will not delay the hearing over disqualifications of Shiv Sena MLAs, but we will also ensure that the matter will not be heard hurriedly as well. The adequate time will be taken, Narvekar said. Another senior BJP leader said that if they do not execute plan B or any rescue plan, then the Supreme Court may be compelled to use its special power under Article 226 and Article 32 to adjudicate the disqualifications petitions as the speaker failed to do so in a given time period. Earlier, Uddhav Thackeray had asked the Supreme Court to use its special power but the court refused saying its not an extraordinary situation. Now, the question before the top BJP leadership is whether to allow the Supreme Court to disqualify Shiv Sena MLAs including CM Eknath Shinde or ask speaker Rahul Narvekar to follow the Supreme Court order in letter and spirit. If both things are not done, then the third option before BJP is to dissolve the government in advance and go for the fresh Maharashtra state assembly elections along with 2024 Lok Sabha. We will have a meeting soon, then the final call over it will be taken, said a senior BJP leader requesting anonymity. He added the elevation of Ajit Pawar as CM will also have a big risk like Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde and disqualifications for him and his MLAs. But we can buy the time and do many things in the meantime, he added. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By PTI NEW DELHI: NCP leader Supriya Sule on Monday strongly defended the Congress after the BJP criticised it over the Women's Reservation Bill issue, saying the first woman prime minister and president were from the Congress and the legislation was also brought by it. But the bill could not be passed due to lack of numbers, she said. Participating in the discussion in Lok Sabha on "Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha -- Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings", Sule urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to bring the Women's Reservation Bill and assured that her party would support it. "Most women MPs have been asking about the Women's Reservation Bill. Everyone sitting here has been concerned about it," she said on the first day of the five-day session of Parliament. Responding to BJP MP Rakesh Singh's remarks asking what had the Congress done about ensuring reservation for women despite being in power for decades, Sule said, "I would like to set the record straight...the first woman president of India, Pratibha Patil, was from the Congress, the first woman PM of the country, Indira Gandhi, was from the Congress, the first woman speaker, Meira Kumar, was from the Congress." "I would like to put one more thing on record which Rakesh Singh seems to have missed out, the Women's Reservation Bill was brought by the Congress, unfortunately we did not have the numbers and we could not get it passed," she said. Sule also hailed former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi and former Maharashtra chief minister and her father Sharad Pawar for bringing in 33 per cent reservation for women in every panchayat. "I am very proud to say that Maharashtra was the first state to bring it (reservation) to 33 per cent and then we raised it to 50 per cent, this is what has been done for women," the NCP leader said. She also urged the prime minister to get the Women's Reservation Bill passed. "I take this opportunity that since we are all deliberating here, 50 per cent of India's population is women...maybe the first decision the prime minister can take is (to bring this bill) and we all will support him if he brings in reservation for women in Parliament and assemblies," Sule said. The last concrete development on the issue was in 2010 when Rajya Sabha passed the bill amid a ruckus with marshals escorting out some MPs who opposed the move to reserve 33 per cent seats for women in Lok Sabha and state assemblies, but the bill lapsed as it could not be passed by Lok Sabha. While the BJP and the Congress have always supported the bill, opposition by other parties and demands from some for quota for backward classes within the women's quota have been key sticking points. A day ahead of the Parliament session, several parties at an all-party meet on Sunday had made a strong pitch for bringing and passing the women's reservation bill during the session, but the government said an "appropriate decision will be taken at the appropriate time". In her remarks, Sule also made a slew of suggestions as the parliamentarians move into the new Parliament building. The functioning of Parliament is to shift to the new building on Tuesday. She urged the government to appoint a deputy speaker, noting that the current Lok Sabha term is the only one in which there has not been any deputy speaker. She also called for increasing parliamentary sittings and sessions. Sule said that since the number of constituents are constantly going up, the MPLADS funds are not enough and something should be done about it. She asserted that Question Hour should not be disrupted and also called for strengthening private member bill mechanism. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp NEW DELHI: NCP leader Supriya Sule on Monday strongly defended the Congress after the BJP criticised it over the Women's Reservation Bill issue, saying the first woman prime minister and president were from the Congress and the legislation was also brought by it. But the bill could not be passed due to lack of numbers, she said. Participating in the discussion in Lok Sabha on "Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha -- Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings", Sule urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to bring the Women's Reservation Bill and assured that her party would support it.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "Most women MPs have been asking about the Women's Reservation Bill. Everyone sitting here has been concerned about it," she said on the first day of the five-day session of Parliament. Responding to BJP MP Rakesh Singh's remarks asking what had the Congress done about ensuring reservation for women despite being in power for decades, Sule said, "I would like to set the record straight...the first woman president of India, Pratibha Patil, was from the Congress, the first woman PM of the country, Indira Gandhi, was from the Congress, the first woman speaker, Meira Kumar, was from the Congress." "I would like to put one more thing on record which Rakesh Singh seems to have missed out, the Women's Reservation Bill was brought by the Congress, unfortunately we did not have the numbers and we could not get it passed," she said. Sule also hailed former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi and former Maharashtra chief minister and her father Sharad Pawar for bringing in 33 per cent reservation for women in every panchayat. "I am very proud to say that Maharashtra was the first state to bring it (reservation) to 33 per cent and then we raised it to 50 per cent, this is what has been done for women," the NCP leader said. She also urged the prime minister to get the Women's Reservation Bill passed. "I take this opportunity that since we are all deliberating here, 50 per cent of India's population is women...maybe the first decision the prime minister can take is (to bring this bill) and we all will support him if he brings in reservation for women in Parliament and assemblies," Sule said. The last concrete development on the issue was in 2010 when Rajya Sabha passed the bill amid a ruckus with marshals escorting out some MPs who opposed the move to reserve 33 per cent seats for women in Lok Sabha and state assemblies, but the bill lapsed as it could not be passed by Lok Sabha. While the BJP and the Congress have always supported the bill, opposition by other parties and demands from some for quota for backward classes within the women's quota have been key sticking points. A day ahead of the Parliament session, several parties at an all-party meet on Sunday had made a strong pitch for bringing and passing the women's reservation bill during the session, but the government said an "appropriate decision will be taken at the appropriate time". In her remarks, Sule also made a slew of suggestions as the parliamentarians move into the new Parliament building. The functioning of Parliament is to shift to the new building on Tuesday. She urged the government to appoint a deputy speaker, noting that the current Lok Sabha term is the only one in which there has not been any deputy speaker. She also called for increasing parliamentary sittings and sessions. Sule said that since the number of constituents are constantly going up, the MPLADS funds are not enough and something should be done about it. She asserted that Question Hour should not be disrupted and also called for strengthening private member bill mechanism. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Dilip Singh Kshatriya By Express News Service AHMEDABAD: The Opposition Congress claimed the state's BJP government refused to release the water from the dam when farmers needed it and instead stored it so that the reservoir overflowed on September 17, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday, Congress also alleged that the government decided to open the floodgates of Narmada Dam yesterday (without any prior warning in nearby areas), and released 18 lakh cusecs of water at once leading to misery and devastation in the lives of ordinary people. The Congress said that this ultimately prompted the government to release a significant amount of water from the dam on Sunday, resulting in a flood in the downstream Bharuch district and "large-scale damage" that "affected lakhs of people," Congress alleged that it is a "man-made disaster." Gujarat Congress working presidents and MLA Jignesh Mevani wrote on social media that, Over 10,000 people in Narmada, Vadodara, and Bharuch districts have been evacuated, their lives jeopardized, and their livelihoods and houses ruined, all for the sake of displaying a God-image of one guy. Even the much-touted Satute of Unity is currently underwater. The entire governmental apparatus is empty and devoid of imagination. This is nothing short of a crime against humanity! he further said. ALSO READ | Gujarat rains: Over 12,500 people moved to shelter homes; Narmada river breaches 'danger' mark Congress spokesperson Manish Doshi held a press conference in Ahmedabad and said If the Sardar Sarovar Project (SSP) and the Central Water Commission (CWC) had begun forecasting the flow based on the hourly catchment area rainfall figures they received, they could have begun increasing the downstream release from the SSP on September 14 to account for these figures. Giving Data Doshi Alleged that The Meteorological Department observed exceptionally high district-wise rainfall for the 24 hours ending 08-30 hours on September 16, 2023. Among the others are Khargaon (144.6 mm), Alirajpur (108.2 mm), Dewas (149.7 mm), Dhar (80.4 mm), Harda (205.2 mm), Jhabua (92.4 mm), Khandwa (147.6 mm), and Narmadapuram (131.7 mm). CWC and SSP authorities receive hourly rainfall information in the watershed, thus they could have projected the flow and increased the carrying capacity of the downstream river even before the IMD announced the 24-hour figure at 08-30 hrs. According to the Central Water Commission On September 14, the Burgi Dam gates on the Narmada were opened. The levels of the Narmada's Indira Sagar and Omkareshwar dams had begun to increase by the late evening of September 15, By late afternoon, both the Omkareshwar and Indira Sagar dams had reached their FRL (Full Reservoir Level). This was yet another signal for SSP authorities to begin opening the SSP gates on September 14 and 15, since the water discharged from the upstream dam was bound to reach the SSP. However, as of 10 a.m. on September 16, the SSP authorities had still not opened any gates from the Sardar Sarovar project, with solely River Bed releases. Manish Doshi said According to Doshi, five districts are affected, and the Gujarat Congress will write to the President of India, the Central Water Commission, and both the central and state governments about it. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp AHMEDABAD: The Opposition Congress claimed the state's BJP government refused to release the water from the dam when farmers needed it and instead stored it so that the reservoir overflowed on September 17, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday, Congress also alleged that the government decided to open the floodgates of Narmada Dam yesterday (without any prior warning in nearby areas), and released 18 lakh cusecs of water at once leading to misery and devastation in the lives of ordinary people. The Congress said that this ultimately prompted the government to release a significant amount of water from the dam on Sunday, resulting in a flood in the downstream Bharuch district and "large-scale damage" that "affected lakhs of people," Congress alleged that it is a "man-made disaster." Gujarat Congress working presidents and MLA Jignesh Mevani wrote on social media that, Over 10,000 people in Narmada, Vadodara, and Bharuch districts have been evacuated, their lives jeopardized, and their livelihoods and houses ruined, all for the sake of displaying a God-image of one guy.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Even the much-touted Satute of Unity is currently underwater. The entire governmental apparatus is empty and devoid of imagination. This is nothing short of a crime against humanity! he further said. ALSO READ | Gujarat rains: Over 12,500 people moved to shelter homes; Narmada river breaches 'danger' mark Congress spokesperson Manish Doshi held a press conference in Ahmedabad and said If the Sardar Sarovar Project (SSP) and the Central Water Commission (CWC) had begun forecasting the flow based on the hourly catchment area rainfall figures they received, they could have begun increasing the downstream release from the SSP on September 14 to account for these figures. Giving Data Doshi Alleged that The Meteorological Department observed exceptionally high district-wise rainfall for the 24 hours ending 08-30 hours on September 16, 2023. Among the others are Khargaon (144.6 mm), Alirajpur (108.2 mm), Dewas (149.7 mm), Dhar (80.4 mm), Harda (205.2 mm), Jhabua (92.4 mm), Khandwa (147.6 mm), and Narmadapuram (131.7 mm). CWC and SSP authorities receive hourly rainfall information in the watershed, thus they could have projected the flow and increased the carrying capacity of the downstream river even before the IMD announced the 24-hour figure at 08-30 hrs. According to the Central Water Commission On September 14, the Burgi Dam gates on the Narmada were opened. The levels of the Narmada's Indira Sagar and Omkareshwar dams had begun to increase by the late evening of September 15, By late afternoon, both the Omkareshwar and Indira Sagar dams had reached their FRL (Full Reservoir Level). This was yet another signal for SSP authorities to begin opening the SSP gates on September 14 and 15, since the water discharged from the upstream dam was bound to reach the SSP. However, as of 10 a.m. on September 16, the SSP authorities had still not opened any gates from the Sardar Sarovar project, with solely River Bed releases. Manish Doshi said According to Doshi, five districts are affected, and the Gujarat Congress will write to the President of India, the Central Water Commission, and both the central and state governments about it. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said Western countries must be prepared for the fact that the war in Ukraine will be long, DW reports, citing German media. In an interview with the Funke media group, Stoltenberg said there would be no swift end to the war in Ukraine. "Most wars last longer than expected when they first begin," he said. "We are all wishing for a quick peace. But at the same time, we must recognize: if President Zelenskyy and the Ukrainians stop fighting, their country will no longer exist," Stoltenberg said. "If President Putin and Russia lay down their weapons, we will have peace," the NATO head said. Stoltenberg also expressed confidence that Ukraine would at some point join the alliance. "There is no doubt that Ukraine will eventually be in NATO." As reported, during the NATO summit, which was held in Vilnius in July, the Secretary General said the decisions taken at the summit "are the strongest ever messages on Ukraine membership that the Alliance ever made." At the same time, Stoltenberg said the most important thing is that the war ends, so the most important task now is to continue to supply weapons. Fayaz Wani By Express News Service SRINAGAR: As the search operation in the Gadole forest area of Kokernag continued for the fifth consecutive day on Sunday, there was still no trace of the group of Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) militants, who are involved in the killing of four security personnel including three high ranking officials in the gunfight on Wednesday. Drones and helicopters are being used for the surveillance of the dense forest area of Gadole in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district to track down and pinpoint the location of a group of two to three Lashkar militants, who are believed to be hiding. The security forces are firing mortar shells, grenades and ammunition through drones at the possible hideouts in the natural caves in the forest area. ALSO READ | 'One last time': Six-year-old son salutes Jawan dad who was martyred in Anantnag encounter Smoke rises after blast at a militants' hideout on the fifth day of the ongoing encounter between security personnel and terrorists, at Gadol Kokarnag in Anantnag. (PTI) One of the militant hideouts in the deep forest area was busted and demolished by mortar shelling by troops on Friday. A portion of the forest area had caught fire and the flames and huge smoke was visible. The elite special forces are assisting the troops on the ground in the operation and maintaining tight vigil to prevent militants from slipping into civilian habitation. More troops have been rushed to the adjoining areas to prevent militants from escaping from the forest area. There has been no trace of the militants after the initial gunfight and it is being suspected that militants are making use of treacherous terrain and forest cover to prolong the security forces operation. There is no confirmation whether any militant has been killed in the operation so far. ADGP Kashmir Vijay Kumar has asserted that militants trapped in the Gadole forest area will be neutralized. A security official said all preventive measures are being taken to ensure the safety of soldiers during the operation. We are not hastening the operation and are going at our own speed, he said. Security personnel check identities of civilians in a cordoned-off area on the fifth day of the ongoing encounter with terrorists, at Gadol Kokarnag in Anantnag. (PTI) ALSO READ | Locals, families mourn Army officers killed in encounter with terrorists in J&K's Anantnag Meanwhile, a paramilitary CRPF jawan, who was part of Road Opening Party (ROP) duty in the adjoining area, was accidentally injured after being hit in the foot. The injured CRPF man was immediately evacuated and rushed to hospital. On Wednesday morning (September 13), when an anti-militancy operation was launched in the forest area by a joint contingent of police and army, three security personnel Colonel Manpreet Singh (19 Rashtriya Rifles), Major Ashish Dhonchak and Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat were killed in the gunfight with militants. Another soldier succumbed to injuries on September 15 taking the death toll in the encounter to four. The operation, which is being supervised by Srinagar-based Armys 15 Corps, is turning out to be one of the longest anti-militancy operations in the Kashmir Valley. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp SRINAGAR: As the search operation in the Gadole forest area of Kokernag continued for the fifth consecutive day on Sunday, there was still no trace of the group of Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) militants, who are involved in the killing of four security personnel including three high ranking officials in the gunfight on Wednesday. Drones and helicopters are being used for the surveillance of the dense forest area of Gadole in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district to track down and pinpoint the location of a group of two to three Lashkar militants, who are believed to be hiding. The security forces are firing mortar shells, grenades and ammunition through drones at the possible hideouts in the natural caves in the forest area.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); ALSO READ | 'One last time': Six-year-old son salutes Jawan dad who was martyred in Anantnag encounter Smoke rises after blast at a militants' hideout on the fifth day of the ongoing encounter between security personnel and terrorists, at Gadol Kokarnag in Anantnag. (PTI) One of the militant hideouts in the deep forest area was busted and demolished by mortar shelling by troops on Friday. A portion of the forest area had caught fire and the flames and huge smoke was visible. The elite special forces are assisting the troops on the ground in the operation and maintaining tight vigil to prevent militants from slipping into civilian habitation. More troops have been rushed to the adjoining areas to prevent militants from escaping from the forest area. There has been no trace of the militants after the initial gunfight and it is being suspected that militants are making use of treacherous terrain and forest cover to prolong the security forces operation. There is no confirmation whether any militant has been killed in the operation so far. ADGP Kashmir Vijay Kumar has asserted that militants trapped in the Gadole forest area will be neutralized. A security official said all preventive measures are being taken to ensure the safety of soldiers during the operation. We are not hastening the operation and are going at our own speed, he said. Security personnel check identities of civilians in a cordoned-off area on the fifth day of the ongoing encounter with terrorists, at Gadol Kokarnag in Anantnag. (PTI) ALSO READ | Locals, families mourn Army officers killed in encounter with terrorists in J&K's Anantnag Meanwhile, a paramilitary CRPF jawan, who was part of Road Opening Party (ROP) duty in the adjoining area, was accidentally injured after being hit in the foot. The injured CRPF man was immediately evacuated and rushed to hospital. On Wednesday morning (September 13), when an anti-militancy operation was launched in the forest area by a joint contingent of police and army, three security personnel Colonel Manpreet Singh (19 Rashtriya Rifles), Major Ashish Dhonchak and Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat were killed in the gunfight with militants. Another soldier succumbed to injuries on September 15 taking the death toll in the encounter to four. The operation, which is being supervised by Srinagar-based Armys 15 Corps, is turning out to be one of the longest anti-militancy operations in the Kashmir Valley. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By Express News Service GUWAHATI: The students of the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Silchar in Assam staged a sit-in on Monday demanding, among others, the resignation of the dean (academics) after holding him responsible for a students death. The protest, which was staged on the campus, began at 7:30 AM. It was continuing when reports last came in. Hundreds of students took part in it. No untoward incident was reported, the police said. The students are going for the jugular of BK Roy, dean (academics), ever since Koj Buker, a student from Arunachal Pradesh, allegedly committed suicide on September 15 in his hostel room after being allegedly insulted by the NIT, Silchar administration. The students said Buker had backlogs in six subjects in the first year itself as he was at home in Arunachal during the Covid 19 pandemic and could not attend the online classes due to a lack of internet connectivity. They said subsequently his mother died and his studies were further affected. He was denied admission in the fifth semester on the grounds that he had backlogs in 13 subjects. He had submitted an application and kept following it up for more than one month but the administration insulted him, a student alleged. He said the incident of suicide could have been averted if the NIT, Silchar administration had considered Bukers case and conducted a special examination for him so he could clear the backlog papers. The students threatened to continue with their agitation till Roy resigned or he was ousted. Further, they demanded justice for Buker and withdrawal of the FIRs lodged against some of them for vandalism. On September 16, several students were injured in a police lathi charge after the protestors had gone on the rampage, damaging government quarters and vehicles. Later, they apologised for their actions. The NIT, Silchar administration could not be reached for comment. Discussing suicides can be triggering for some. However, suicides are preventable. In case you feel distressed by the content or know someone in distress, call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050 (available 24x7) Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp GUWAHATI: The students of the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Silchar in Assam staged a sit-in on Monday demanding, among others, the resignation of the dean (academics) after holding him responsible for a students death. The protest, which was staged on the campus, began at 7:30 AM. It was continuing when reports last came in. Hundreds of students took part in it. No untoward incident was reported, the police said. The students are going for the jugular of BK Roy, dean (academics), ever since Koj Buker, a student from Arunachal Pradesh, allegedly committed suicide on September 15 in his hostel room after being allegedly insulted by the NIT, Silchar administration. googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The students said Buker had backlogs in six subjects in the first year itself as he was at home in Arunachal during the Covid 19 pandemic and could not attend the online classes due to a lack of internet connectivity. They said subsequently his mother died and his studies were further affected. He was denied admission in the fifth semester on the grounds that he had backlogs in 13 subjects. He had submitted an application and kept following it up for more than one month but the administration insulted him, a student alleged. He said the incident of suicide could have been averted if the NIT, Silchar administration had considered Bukers case and conducted a special examination for him so he could clear the backlog papers. The students threatened to continue with their agitation till Roy resigned or he was ousted. Further, they demanded justice for Buker and withdrawal of the FIRs lodged against some of them for vandalism. On September 16, several students were injured in a police lathi charge after the protestors had gone on the rampage, damaging government quarters and vehicles. Later, they apologised for their actions. The NIT, Silchar administration could not be reached for comment. Discussing suicides can be triggering for some. However, suicides are preventable. In case you feel distressed by the content or know someone in distress, call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050 (available 24x7) Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By PTI NEW DELHI: Opposition members in Rajya Sabha on Monday hit out at the government, accusing it of indulging in majoritarianism and defying the tenets of parliamentary democracy. During a discussion in the Upper House on the 75-year journey of Parliament, they also accused the government of practising "bulldozer" justice and cautioned about the dire consequences of unemployment. Taking part in the discussion, the RJD's Manoj Kumar Jha quoted the chief architect of the Constitution B R Ambedkar and said democracy also meant "preventing tyranny of the majority". There is a need for a majority as governments cannot run without a majority but there is a "difference between majority and majoritarianism", he added. "When our government forgets this difference...when we make even a small criticism, which is never personal, we are told to go to Pakistan," Jha said, adding that if everybody who criticises the government were to go to the neighbouring country, it won't be able to accommodate all. Taking part in the discussion, Jose K Mani of the KC(M) said, "It is an undeniable fact (that) recent years have witnessed instances of undemocratic parliamentary methods and procedures, which threatened the very essence of democracy." "There have been occasions where legislative debates have been curtailed, the opposition's voice silenced and crucial bills passed without due discussions and scrutiny," he alleged. The integrity of Parliament committees, an internal part of the democratic system, has at times been compromised, Mani claimed, adding, "Delays in appointments and politicisation of these committees have hindered their effectiveness. Only 25 per cent of the bills were referred to these committees." The Kerala Congress (M) leader further said, "Such a low referral rate of bills to the committee during the 16th Lok Sabha clearly shows the government is not open to scrutiny and engagement that the committee offers." The suppression of dissent, be it from the civil society, academia or the media, is a matter of deep concern, he added. Tiruchi Siva of the DMK claimed that the space for the opposition is shrinking. "There has been a decline in the ability of Parliament to hold the government accountable...The government resorts to ordinances rather than legislation," he said. Replying to this, Raya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar said, "You are right but when I look within, I find lost opportunities. Enough opportunities were available. Why was that not availed? We have to be very rational and committed." Amar Patnaik of the BJD said states have a very important role to play in parliamentary democracy and there have been problems in financial relations over the devolution of funds. "I think cess and surcharge which falls in the central kitty should be made in the divisible pool to make the state financially independent and sustainable," he added. S Niranjan Reddy of the YSRCP said as Parliament is moving to a new building, there is concern among south Indian states. "South Indian states, the more developed Indian states, are feeling that will they be outnumbered because Article 82 gives protection until 2026. Would that be balanced in some manner? We will debate it," he said. Article 82 deals with the number of seats allotted to the House of People. John Brittas of the CPI(M) said that according to Ambedkar, democracy is not the law of the majority but the protection of the minority. He alleged that the current government was flouting the tenets of parliamentary democracy of the accountability of the executive to the legislator. "Have you ever seen the accountability of the executive to the legislature? What is the presence of the prime minister in Parliament? 0.001 per cent! That is the period in which he attended the Parliament session," Brittas claimed. On the justice front, he said, "You will notice that we have reached the 'bulldozer era'. The justice that is being imparted is bulldozer era." MDMK's Vaiko claimed the formation of the opposition INDIA alliance proved to be a threat to the government, forcing it to use 'Bharat' as the country plaque at the G20 Summit. He alleged that the government was trying to turn this country into a 'Hindu Rashtra' and warned that it would have serious consequences as minorities such as Muslims are under threat. "In this way, the country will be balkanised...It will become (another) Soviet Union. What happened to the Soviet Union will happen in India. India will be balkanised into so many states," Vaiko said. Drawing attention to rising unemployment, the RJD's Jha said as India's population continues to rise, there is a need to tackle the challenge. "One party or the other may be in government but unemployment will finish our politics. What are we doing about the right to employment," he asked. The NCP's Praful Patel, BJP's Bhubaneswar Kalita, AGP's Birendra Prasad Baishya, TMC's Md Nadimul Haque, Congress' Shaktisinh Gohil and Rajiv Shukla, AIADMK's M Thambidurai, BRS' K Keshava Rao, AAP's Vikramjit Singh Sahney, BJD's Mamata Mohanta and GK Vasan of the TMC(M) also took part in the discussion. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp NEW DELHI: Opposition members in Rajya Sabha on Monday hit out at the government, accusing it of indulging in majoritarianism and defying the tenets of parliamentary democracy. During a discussion in the Upper House on the 75-year journey of Parliament, they also accused the government of practising "bulldozer" justice and cautioned about the dire consequences of unemployment. Taking part in the discussion, the RJD's Manoj Kumar Jha quoted the chief architect of the Constitution B R Ambedkar and said democracy also meant "preventing tyranny of the majority".googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); There is a need for a majority as governments cannot run without a majority but there is a "difference between majority and majoritarianism", he added. "When our government forgets this difference...when we make even a small criticism, which is never personal, we are told to go to Pakistan," Jha said, adding that if everybody who criticises the government were to go to the neighbouring country, it won't be able to accommodate all. Taking part in the discussion, Jose K Mani of the KC(M) said, "It is an undeniable fact (that) recent years have witnessed instances of undemocratic parliamentary methods and procedures, which threatened the very essence of democracy." "There have been occasions where legislative debates have been curtailed, the opposition's voice silenced and crucial bills passed without due discussions and scrutiny," he alleged. The integrity of Parliament committees, an internal part of the democratic system, has at times been compromised, Mani claimed, adding, "Delays in appointments and politicisation of these committees have hindered their effectiveness. Only 25 per cent of the bills were referred to these committees." The Kerala Congress (M) leader further said, "Such a low referral rate of bills to the committee during the 16th Lok Sabha clearly shows the government is not open to scrutiny and engagement that the committee offers." The suppression of dissent, be it from the civil society, academia or the media, is a matter of deep concern, he added. Tiruchi Siva of the DMK claimed that the space for the opposition is shrinking. "There has been a decline in the ability of Parliament to hold the government accountable...The government resorts to ordinances rather than legislation," he said. Replying to this, Raya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar said, "You are right but when I look within, I find lost opportunities. Enough opportunities were available. Why was that not availed? We have to be very rational and committed." Amar Patnaik of the BJD said states have a very important role to play in parliamentary democracy and there have been problems in financial relations over the devolution of funds. "I think cess and surcharge which falls in the central kitty should be made in the divisible pool to make the state financially independent and sustainable," he added. S Niranjan Reddy of the YSRCP said as Parliament is moving to a new building, there is concern among south Indian states. "South Indian states, the more developed Indian states, are feeling that will they be outnumbered because Article 82 gives protection until 2026. Would that be balanced in some manner? We will debate it," he said. Article 82 deals with the number of seats allotted to the House of People. John Brittas of the CPI(M) said that according to Ambedkar, democracy is not the law of the majority but the protection of the minority. He alleged that the current government was flouting the tenets of parliamentary democracy of the accountability of the executive to the legislator. "Have you ever seen the accountability of the executive to the legislature? What is the presence of the prime minister in Parliament? 0.001 per cent! That is the period in which he attended the Parliament session," Brittas claimed. On the justice front, he said, "You will notice that we have reached the 'bulldozer era'. The justice that is being imparted is bulldozer era." MDMK's Vaiko claimed the formation of the opposition INDIA alliance proved to be a threat to the government, forcing it to use 'Bharat' as the country plaque at the G20 Summit. He alleged that the government was trying to turn this country into a 'Hindu Rashtra' and warned that it would have serious consequences as minorities such as Muslims are under threat. "In this way, the country will be balkanised...It will become (another) Soviet Union. What happened to the Soviet Union will happen in India. India will be balkanised into so many states," Vaiko said. Drawing attention to rising unemployment, the RJD's Jha said as India's population continues to rise, there is a need to tackle the challenge. "One party or the other may be in government but unemployment will finish our politics. What are we doing about the right to employment," he asked. The NCP's Praful Patel, BJP's Bhubaneswar Kalita, AGP's Birendra Prasad Baishya, TMC's Md Nadimul Haque, Congress' Shaktisinh Gohil and Rajiv Shukla, AIADMK's M Thambidurai, BRS' K Keshava Rao, AAP's Vikramjit Singh Sahney, BJD's Mamata Mohanta and GK Vasan of the TMC(M) also took part in the discussion. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By PTI NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday lauded the vision of first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru and subsequent leaders, including Lal Bahadur Shastri, P V Narasimha Rao and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, but also reminded the Lok Sabha of the 'cash-for-vote' scam during the Manmohan Singh government. Initiating the discussion in the Lok Sabha on "Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha -- Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings", Modi also said there were celebrations everywhere when three new states of Uttarakhand, Jharkhand and Chhatisgarh were created during Vajpayee's time but lamented that Telangana being carved out of Andhra Pradesh led to only bitterness and bloodshed in both the states. It is this Parliament where Pandit Nehru spoke at the 'stroke of midnight hour' and his words continue to inspire everyone, he said. The biggest achievement of these 75 years is that the common person's trust in Parliament continues to grow, Modi said, as he wished that when Parliament shifts to its new building on Tuesday that should be a dawn of new hope and confidence. Modi said it is also an occasion to hail everyone who have led this House and shared their vision for India, ranging from Pandit Nehru to Vajpayee. He also remembered Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Chandrashekhar and Lal Krishna Advani for enriching the House. The prime minister also lauded the contribution of B R Ambedkar, saying his vision for industrialisation, which was aimed at bringing social justice in the country during the first government of independent India, continues to remain at the heart of every industrial policy even today. At the same time, there have been sad and emotive moments when Parliament witnessed the loss of three serving prime ministers -- Nehru, Shastri and Indira Gandhi -- and they were paid rich tributes, he noted. "This House also supported the liberation of Bangladesh under the leadership of Indira Gandhi," he said. At the same time, this House also witnessed an attack on democracy during the Emergency and through this House, the people also asserted their power as we saw the return of democracy, Modi added. Modi also paid tributes to "every brick" of the old Parliament building and said the MPs would enter the new building with "new hope and confidence." In his over an hour-long speech in Lok Sabha, Modi remembered the journey of India's democracy and said the last day in this heritage building should be dedicated to the over 7,500 parliamentarians who served in this building since Independence. Parliament will shift to the new building on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi on Tuesday. "Today we have an opportunity to connect with the past. We are leaving this building with hope for the future. I am confident that as we enter the new Parliament building, we will go there with new hope and confidence," the prime minister said. "Today is the day for remembering the 7,500 MPs who have served here...I salute every brick of this building," he said. Stressing on the historical importance of the old Parliament Building, PM Modi recalled that while the construction of the old Parliament Building was given by foreign rulers, it was constructed through the sweat, hard work and money of Indians. "Today, we are taking leave from this historic building. Before Independence, this was the Imperial Legislative Council and after Independence, it became the Parliament building," he said. "We may go to the new building, but the old building will also inspire generations to come. This is an important chapter of India's journey," Modi said. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday lauded the vision of first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru and subsequent leaders, including Lal Bahadur Shastri, P V Narasimha Rao and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, but also reminded the Lok Sabha of the 'cash-for-vote' scam during the Manmohan Singh government. Initiating the discussion in the Lok Sabha on "Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha -- Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings", Modi also said there were celebrations everywhere when three new states of Uttarakhand, Jharkhand and Chhatisgarh were created during Vajpayee's time but lamented that Telangana being carved out of Andhra Pradesh led to only bitterness and bloodshed in both the states. It is this Parliament where Pandit Nehru spoke at the 'stroke of midnight hour' and his words continue to inspire everyone, he said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The biggest achievement of these 75 years is that the common person's trust in Parliament continues to grow, Modi said, as he wished that when Parliament shifts to its new building on Tuesday that should be a dawn of new hope and confidence. Modi said it is also an occasion to hail everyone who have led this House and shared their vision for India, ranging from Pandit Nehru to Vajpayee. He also remembered Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Chandrashekhar and Lal Krishna Advani for enriching the House. The prime minister also lauded the contribution of B R Ambedkar, saying his vision for industrialisation, which was aimed at bringing social justice in the country during the first government of independent India, continues to remain at the heart of every industrial policy even today. At the same time, there have been sad and emotive moments when Parliament witnessed the loss of three serving prime ministers -- Nehru, Shastri and Indira Gandhi -- and they were paid rich tributes, he noted. "This House also supported the liberation of Bangladesh under the leadership of Indira Gandhi," he said. At the same time, this House also witnessed an attack on democracy during the Emergency and through this House, the people also asserted their power as we saw the return of democracy, Modi added. Modi also paid tributes to "every brick" of the old Parliament building and said the MPs would enter the new building with "new hope and confidence." In his over an hour-long speech in Lok Sabha, Modi remembered the journey of India's democracy and said the last day in this heritage building should be dedicated to the over 7,500 parliamentarians who served in this building since Independence. Parliament will shift to the new building on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi on Tuesday. "Today we have an opportunity to connect with the past. We are leaving this building with hope for the future. I am confident that as we enter the new Parliament building, we will go there with new hope and confidence," the prime minister said. "Today is the day for remembering the 7,500 MPs who have served here...I salute every brick of this building," he said. Stressing on the historical importance of the old Parliament Building, PM Modi recalled that while the construction of the old Parliament Building was given by foreign rulers, it was constructed through the sweat, hard work and money of Indians. "Today, we are taking leave from this historic building. Before Independence, this was the Imperial Legislative Council and after Independence, it became the Parliament building," he said. "We may go to the new building, but the old building will also inspire generations to come. This is an important chapter of India's journey," Modi said. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Shahid Faridi By Express News Service CEC Appointment Bill Storm brewing over downgrade of poll panel The government has decided to table the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023 in the Lok Sabha in the special session of Parliament starting on September 18. There are two issues in the proposed bill that have raised concerns. The first is regarding maintaining the impartiality of the election commission, and the second is about the status of the chief election commissioner and the two commissioners. Article 324 of the Constitution empowers the Election Commission to conduct free and fair elections for Parliament, state legislatures and for the posts of President and Vice-President of India. The Supreme Court in a judgement earlier this year ruled that to maintain the impartiality of the commission, the three commissioners should be chosen by a panel comprising the Prime Minister, the leader of the Opposition and the Chief Justice of India. The proposed bill, however, seeks to replace the CJI with a Union minister. This is being cited as a move that will compromise the impartiality of the commission because no Union minister will oppose the Prime Minister and hence the commission would, in effect, be handpicked by the government. This has raised concern about the conduct of free and fair elections in the country. The second objection to the proposed bill is the downgrade of the commission. The service conditions of the three commissioners are currently at par with a judge of the Supreme Court. The proposed bill seeks to change their salary and allowance structure which equates them with the Cabinet secretary, a notch below a Supreme Court judge. The opposition parties are planning to raise these issues in Parliament. The new bill is also likely to be challenged in the Supreme Court as it seeks to set aside the selection panel suggested by the court. Ghosi shocker UP bypoll result reveals deep divide in the BJP The defeat of the BJP candidate in an important by-election in Uttar Pradeshs Ghosi assembly constituency has brought under the spotlight the divisions in the party. BJP candidate Dara Singh Chauhan was defeated by Samajwadi Partys Sudhakar Singh by a margin of more than forty-two thousand votes. The election result came as a surprise for the political pundits, who had unanimously predicted a BJP victory. Their assessment was based on the perceived popularity of the state chief minister and the decision of Suheldev Bhartiya Samaj Party chief O P Rajbhar to snap ties with the Samajwadi Party and join hands with the BJP. Rajbhar worked hard for the BJP candidate and announced that the Samajwadi Party candidate would lose his deposit. Another factor that was said to be working in favour of the BJP was the decision of the Bahujan Samaj Party to not field a candidate. Since the BSP chief Mayawati has lately been seen to be moving towards the BJP, her voters were expected to vote for the BJP candidate. But in spite of all these factors working in favour of the ruling party, its candidate lost by a big margin. Sources say that the BJP candidate in Ghosi became a victim of the divide between state and central leaders of the party. The defeated BJP candidate is said to be close to a senior central minister who is not on the best of terms with the state leadership. He became a casualty of a high-level fight in the party. Sources said the BJPs top leadership is working hard to bring the two warring sides together so that their fight doesnt spoil the partys chances in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp CEC Appointment Bill Storm brewing over downgrade of poll panel The government has decided to table the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023 in the Lok Sabha in the special session of Parliament starting on September 18. There are two issues in the proposed bill that have raised concerns.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The first is regarding maintaining the impartiality of the election commission, and the second is about the status of the chief election commissioner and the two commissioners. Article 324 of the Constitution empowers the Election Commission to conduct free and fair elections for Parliament, state legislatures and for the posts of President and Vice-President of India. The Supreme Court in a judgement earlier this year ruled that to maintain the impartiality of the commission, the three commissioners should be chosen by a panel comprising the Prime Minister, the leader of the Opposition and the Chief Justice of India. The proposed bill, however, seeks to replace the CJI with a Union minister. This is being cited as a move that will compromise the impartiality of the commission because no Union minister will oppose the Prime Minister and hence the commission would, in effect, be handpicked by the government. This has raised concern about the conduct of free and fair elections in the country. The second objection to the proposed bill is the downgrade of the commission. The service conditions of the three commissioners are currently at par with a judge of the Supreme Court. The proposed bill seeks to change their salary and allowance structure which equates them with the Cabinet secretary, a notch below a Supreme Court judge. The opposition parties are planning to raise these issues in Parliament. The new bill is also likely to be challenged in the Supreme Court as it seeks to set aside the selection panel suggested by the court. Ghosi shocker UP bypoll result reveals deep divide in the BJP The defeat of the BJP candidate in an important by-election in Uttar Pradeshs Ghosi assembly constituency has brought under the spotlight the divisions in the party. BJP candidate Dara Singh Chauhan was defeated by Samajwadi Partys Sudhakar Singh by a margin of more than forty-two thousand votes. The election result came as a surprise for the political pundits, who had unanimously predicted a BJP victory. Their assessment was based on the perceived popularity of the state chief minister and the decision of Suheldev Bhartiya Samaj Party chief O P Rajbhar to snap ties with the Samajwadi Party and join hands with the BJP. Rajbhar worked hard for the BJP candidate and announced that the Samajwadi Party candidate would lose his deposit. Another factor that was said to be working in favour of the BJP was the decision of the Bahujan Samaj Party to not field a candidate. Since the BSP chief Mayawati has lately been seen to be moving towards the BJP, her voters were expected to vote for the BJP candidate. But in spite of all these factors working in favour of the ruling party, its candidate lost by a big margin. Sources say that the BJP candidate in Ghosi became a victim of the divide between state and central leaders of the party. The defeated BJP candidate is said to be close to a senior central minister who is not on the best of terms with the state leadership. He became a casualty of a high-level fight in the party. Sources said the BJPs top leadership is working hard to bring the two warring sides together so that their fight doesnt spoil the partys chances in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By PTI NEW DELHI: The Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha will meet again on Tuesday afternoon in the new Parliament building after they were adjourned on Monday following a discussion on the parliamentary journey of 75 years. While the Rajya Sabha will meet at 2:15 pm in the Upper House chamber of the new Parliament building, the Lok Sabha will meet at 1:15 PM in the Lower House chamber of the newly constructed complex. In both the Houses on Monday, MPs held a discussion on "Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha -- Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings". Initiating the discussion in the Lok Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the vision of first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru and subsequent leaders, including Lal Bahadur Shastri, P V Narasimha Rao and Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Earlier in the day, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said the old Parliament building has an "unparalleled" contribution to India's democratic journey as collective decisions were taken for the welfare of the nation. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp NEW DELHI: The Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha will meet again on Tuesday afternoon in the new Parliament building after they were adjourned on Monday following a discussion on the parliamentary journey of 75 years. While the Rajya Sabha will meet at 2:15 pm in the Upper House chamber of the new Parliament building, the Lok Sabha will meet at 1:15 PM in the Lower House chamber of the newly constructed complex. In both the Houses on Monday, MPs held a discussion on "Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha -- Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings".googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Initiating the discussion in the Lok Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the vision of first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru and subsequent leaders, including Lal Bahadur Shastri, P V Narasimha Rao and Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Earlier in the day, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said the old Parliament building has an "unparalleled" contribution to India's democratic journey as collective decisions were taken for the welfare of the nation. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Mukesh Ranjan By Express News Service RANCHI: India's top court on Monday refused to entertain Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren's petition challenging the summons issued against him by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) over money laundering allegations in a land scam case. Soren had approached the Supreme Court challenging the summons issued by ED and stated that it was wrong for the ED to summon him in the land scam. A bench of Justice Aniruddha Bose and Justice Bela M Trivedi granted Soren the liberty to approach the Jharkhand High Court for relief in the matter. Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi claimed in the court that this is a complete case of a witch-hunt, while Additional Solicitor General S V Raju, appearing for the ED, submitted that the issue is covered by a large number of judgments. "Mr Rohatgi, why don't you go to the high court? No no, go to the high court. We will permit you to withdraw," the bench said. The matter was dismissed as withdrawn. In his petition, Soren stated that the summons was a "clear misuse" of Section 50 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act ((PMLA), 2002, which directly infringes upon his right to personal liberty enshrined in the Constitution. Section 50 empowers the ED to summon an accused and record a statement that is admissible as evidence in court. Meanwhile, Soren has been summoned for a fourth time by the ED asking to appear before it's zonal office in Ranchi on September 23. Notably, Soren had filed a Writ Petition in the top court challenging the summons issued against him after it was issued for the second time on August 19, asking him to appear before the ED zonal office in Ranchi. Later, after being summoned by ED for the third time on September 1, Soren wrote a letter to the central investigation agency informing them that his petition challenging the notice issued against him is pending in the Supreme Court, and hence, he should not be issued further summons. Soren skipped his third summons in a row on September 9 and instead attended the dinner hosted by Rashtrapati Bhavan for G20 Summit leaders in New Delhi. Two other summons were issued by the ED to him. The Chief Minister skipped his first summons on August 14 and sent a letter to the ED asking it to withdraw the summons, adding that he would be forced to take legal action against the agency. However, the ED issued a summons against Soren for a second time asking him to appear before it on August 24. Soren skipped it again and sent a letter to the ED saying that despite filing a writ petition in the Supreme Court challenging the summons issued to him, he was being summoned again by the ED. Meanwhile, the ED has filed a Caveat in the Supreme Court which is yet to be heard. A Caveat gives a person the right to be heard before any decision is made against him as no court can make a decision or issue an order against a person without hearing his or her side. According to ED sources, the Caveat was filed on August 25 as the central agency thought that Soren would get an order passed by the apex court without their side being heard. Upon finding that Soren was not showing urgency to get his petition heard by the apex court, the ED served a third summons to Soren. Notably, the ED is probing two major cases of alleged money laundering in Jharkhand. The first case is related to illegal mining in Sahibganj in which the 48-year-old Jharkhand Mukti Morcha leader was interrogated for over nine hours by the ED on November 17 last year. The second case is related to the alleged land scam in the state capital. 13 people, including IAS officer Chhavi Ranjan, and two businessmen, Amit Agarwal of Kolkata and Bishnu Agarwal who owns shopping malls in Ranchi, have already been arrested in connection with the alleged land scam. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp RANCHI: India's top court on Monday refused to entertain Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren's petition challenging the summons issued against him by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) over money laundering allegations in a land scam case. Soren had approached the Supreme Court challenging the summons issued by ED and stated that it was wrong for the ED to summon him in the land scam. A bench of Justice Aniruddha Bose and Justice Bela M Trivedi granted Soren the liberty to approach the Jharkhand High Court for relief in the matter. Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi claimed in the court that this is a complete case of a witch-hunt, while Additional Solicitor General S V Raju, appearing for the ED, submitted that the issue is covered by a large number of judgments.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "Mr Rohatgi, why don't you go to the high court? No no, go to the high court. We will permit you to withdraw," the bench said. The matter was dismissed as withdrawn. In his petition, Soren stated that the summons was a "clear misuse" of Section 50 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act ((PMLA), 2002, which directly infringes upon his right to personal liberty enshrined in the Constitution. Section 50 empowers the ED to summon an accused and record a statement that is admissible as evidence in court. Meanwhile, Soren has been summoned for a fourth time by the ED asking to appear before it's zonal office in Ranchi on September 23. Notably, Soren had filed a Writ Petition in the top court challenging the summons issued against him after it was issued for the second time on August 19, asking him to appear before the ED zonal office in Ranchi. Later, after being summoned by ED for the third time on September 1, Soren wrote a letter to the central investigation agency informing them that his petition challenging the notice issued against him is pending in the Supreme Court, and hence, he should not be issued further summons. Soren skipped his third summons in a row on September 9 and instead attended the dinner hosted by Rashtrapati Bhavan for G20 Summit leaders in New Delhi. Two other summons were issued by the ED to him. The Chief Minister skipped his first summons on August 14 and sent a letter to the ED asking it to withdraw the summons, adding that he would be forced to take legal action against the agency. However, the ED issued a summons against Soren for a second time asking him to appear before it on August 24. Soren skipped it again and sent a letter to the ED saying that despite filing a writ petition in the Supreme Court challenging the summons issued to him, he was being summoned again by the ED. Meanwhile, the ED has filed a Caveat in the Supreme Court which is yet to be heard. A Caveat gives a person the right to be heard before any decision is made against him as no court can make a decision or issue an order against a person without hearing his or her side. According to ED sources, the Caveat was filed on August 25 as the central agency thought that Soren would get an order passed by the apex court without their side being heard. Upon finding that Soren was not showing urgency to get his petition heard by the apex court, the ED served a third summons to Soren. Notably, the ED is probing two major cases of alleged money laundering in Jharkhand. The first case is related to illegal mining in Sahibganj in which the 48-year-old Jharkhand Mukti Morcha leader was interrogated for over nine hours by the ED on November 17 last year. The second case is related to the alleged land scam in the state capital. 13 people, including IAS officer Chhavi Ranjan, and two businessmen, Amit Agarwal of Kolkata and Bishnu Agarwal who owns shopping malls in Ranchi, have already been arrested in connection with the alleged land scam. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By Express News Service NEW DELHI: With the aim to equip rural youth, especially women, with key digital skills and make them job and future-ready, Union Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched the Skills on Wheels initiative. Under the initiative, 60,000 youth will be empowered over a period of five years with the objective of improving the livelihood of rural households by providing relevant skills training to the youth. Pradhan and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Sunday launched the initiative with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and IndusInd Bank. At the launch, Pradhan said that as a customised bus with retrofitted tools, Skills On Wheels will take the Skill India Mission to the remotest corners of India. The initiative will equip rural youth, particularly women with key Digital Skills and make them job and future-ready, he added. Under the collaboration, the customized bus with retrofitted tools will promote the 'Skill India Mission initiative through 'Skills on Wheels.' The bus will travel across the length and breadth of aspirational and backward districts. Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO, of NSDC and MD, NSDC International said, "Empowering India's rural youth with the transformative power of skilling, reskilling, and upskilling is our paramount mission. This partnership, driven by NSDC CSR's dedication to catalyzing impactful collaborations between the public and private sectors, seeks to ignite innovation and growth within India's skill development landscape." According to a statement, The initiative is aimed at spreading awareness at the grassroots level about free skill training programs enabling youth to profoundly change the trajectory of their lives through robust skill training. The objective of is to enable a large number of youth to take up industry-relevant skill training that will improve their theoretical as well as practical knowledge and help them in securing a better livelihood by bringing necessary synergy, oversight, and effective coordination. It aims to bridge the gap between the skilled people required in the industry and the unemployed youth by ensuring that the right candidate with a passion for a particular job chooses the right course according to his/her academic background, aptitude, and skill set, the statement added. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp NEW DELHI: With the aim to equip rural youth, especially women, with key digital skills and make them job and future-ready, Union Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched the Skills on Wheels initiative. Under the initiative, 60,000 youth will be empowered over a period of five years with the objective of improving the livelihood of rural households by providing relevant skills training to the youth. Pradhan and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Sunday launched the initiative with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and IndusInd Bank.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); At the launch, Pradhan said that as a customised bus with retrofitted tools, Skills On Wheels will take the Skill India Mission to the remotest corners of India. The initiative will equip rural youth, particularly women with key Digital Skills and make them job and future-ready, he added. Under the collaboration, the customized bus with retrofitted tools will promote the 'Skill India Mission initiative through 'Skills on Wheels.' The bus will travel across the length and breadth of aspirational and backward districts. Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO, of NSDC and MD, NSDC International said, "Empowering India's rural youth with the transformative power of skilling, reskilling, and upskilling is our paramount mission. This partnership, driven by NSDC CSR's dedication to catalyzing impactful collaborations between the public and private sectors, seeks to ignite innovation and growth within India's skill development landscape." According to a statement, The initiative is aimed at spreading awareness at the grassroots level about free skill training programs enabling youth to profoundly change the trajectory of their lives through robust skill training. The objective of is to enable a large number of youth to take up industry-relevant skill training that will improve their theoretical as well as practical knowledge and help them in securing a better livelihood by bringing necessary synergy, oversight, and effective coordination. It aims to bridge the gap between the skilled people required in the industry and the unemployed youth by ensuring that the right candidate with a passion for a particular job chooses the right course according to his/her academic background, aptitude, and skill set, the statement added. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Jitendra Choubey By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Days after the arrest of former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, the State government on Sunday said the Enforcement Directorate had directed the Crime Investigation Department (APCID) to investigate the alleged multi-crore skill development corporation scam. In a press conference in New Delhi, N Sanjay, Additional Director General, APCID, said, We have solid evidence against Naidu who had launched the scheme bypassing rules and regulations and released an alleged Rs 371 crore from State exchequer to shell companies. The entire project was meticulously orchestrated by Naidu, who exercised his authority to override the recommendations and decisions made by the officials entrusted with its execution, the APCID chief asserted. The press meet was also attended by P Sudhakar Reddy, Additional Advocate General, Government of Andhra Pradesh. Journalists from Telugu regional media were, however, not allowed to attend the press conference. According to Sanjay, in 2015-16, Ghanta Subba Rao, founder Managing Director and CEO of APSSDC, issued neither a dated nor signed government order to release Rs 371 crore on the direction of Naidu. The fund included Rs 41 crore GST. The APCID said the ED detected irregularities in the GST claim of Rs 41 crore and directed the State government to investigate the matter. After EDs official input, we further investigated and found that out of Rs 371 crore, Naidu swindled Rs 241 crore from the State exchequer, said Sanjay. He further said Suman Bose, the former Managing Director of Siemens, helped Naidu in managing funds through a number of shell companies. According to the CID chief, the Enforcement Directorate also had indicated that the government money to the tune of Rs 241 crore was swindled in a dubious manner and established the illegalities. The Enforcement Directorate noted that the money was siphoned off from funds being released to DesignTech Systems Pvt Ltd through Skillar Enterprises India Pvt Ltd and thereafter through a web of shell companies. On asking for the Chief Secretarys minutes of the meeting, which directed the then Principal Secretary (Finance) PV Ramesh to release the funds, Reddy said evidence was tempered and destroyed. Even those files related to decision making disappeared and minutes of the meeting note was torn away so we charged him under Sec 202 of IPC, he said. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp NEW DELHI: Days after the arrest of former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, the State government on Sunday said the Enforcement Directorate had directed the Crime Investigation Department (APCID) to investigate the alleged multi-crore skill development corporation scam. In a press conference in New Delhi, N Sanjay, Additional Director General, APCID, said, We have solid evidence against Naidu who had launched the scheme bypassing rules and regulations and released an alleged Rs 371 crore from State exchequer to shell companies. The entire project was meticulously orchestrated by Naidu, who exercised his authority to override the recommendations and decisions made by the officials entrusted with its execution, the APCID chief asserted. The press meet was also attended by P Sudhakar Reddy, Additional Advocate General, Government of Andhra Pradesh. Journalists from Telugu regional media were, however, not allowed to attend the press conference.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); According to Sanjay, in 2015-16, Ghanta Subba Rao, founder Managing Director and CEO of APSSDC, issued neither a dated nor signed government order to release Rs 371 crore on the direction of Naidu. The fund included Rs 41 crore GST. The APCID said the ED detected irregularities in the GST claim of Rs 41 crore and directed the State government to investigate the matter. After EDs official input, we further investigated and found that out of Rs 371 crore, Naidu swindled Rs 241 crore from the State exchequer, said Sanjay. He further said Suman Bose, the former Managing Director of Siemens, helped Naidu in managing funds through a number of shell companies. According to the CID chief, the Enforcement Directorate also had indicated that the government money to the tune of Rs 241 crore was swindled in a dubious manner and established the illegalities. The Enforcement Directorate noted that the money was siphoned off from funds being released to DesignTech Systems Pvt Ltd through Skillar Enterprises India Pvt Ltd and thereafter through a web of shell companies. On asking for the Chief Secretarys minutes of the meeting, which directed the then Principal Secretary (Finance) PV Ramesh to release the funds, Reddy said evidence was tempered and destroyed. Even those files related to decision making disappeared and minutes of the meeting note was torn away so we charged him under Sec 202 of IPC, he said. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By Online Desk Prime Minister Narendra Modi will speak in the Lok Sabha at the Special Parliament Session that will begin on Monday, as per reports. The five-day special session of Parliament will begin on Monday during which the parliamentary proceedings will shift from the old to the adjacent new state-of-the-art building on September 19, on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. The floor leaders of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) are scheduled to hold a meeting at the office of Rajya Sabha leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge before the start of the Parliament special session to chalk out the strategy for the floor of the house. The Special Session of the Parliament will be held from September 18 to 22. After weeks of no information about the agenda, the government last week announced an agenda that included bills to be taken up for consideration and a discussion on the Parliamentary journey of 75 years. Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi on Sunday at at an all-party meeting stated that the Session will provide 5 sittings spread over a period of 5 days, besides informing that eight legislative items are likely to be taken up during this session. They include a Bill to regulate the appointment, conditions of service and term of office of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners. Opposition parties have opposed the Bill calling it anti-Constitution and anti-democracy. Opposition parties have raised questions on the government's agenda for the Parliament session, pointing out that a bulletin issued ahead of the session listing the tentative business is not "exhaustive". Pralhad Joshi also shared with leaders that there would be a photo session from 10.00 am to 10.45 am on September 19, 2023, followed by a function in the Central Hall starting at 11.00 am which will be graced by the Vice-President/Chairman, Rajya Sabha, the Prime Minister, Speaker, Lok Sabha, Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha and Leader of Largest Opposition Party in Lok Sabha and the Members of both the Houses of Parliament. After the conclusion of the function in the Central Hall, both Houses will meet in their respective Chambers in the New Parliament House. The Lok Sabha in the new Parliament building. (Central Vista website) The announcement of the Special Session came as a surprise in political circles with the parties gearing up for assembly polls in five states later this year. On Sunday, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar hoisted the national flag atop "Gaja Dwar" of the new Parliament building. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla was also present on the occasion. Prime Minister Modi was not present. Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge, who was in Hyderabad for a two-day meeting of the newly constituted Congress Working Committee, was also not present during the flag-hoisting ceremony. In a letter to Rajya Sabha Secretary General PC Mody on Saturday, Kharge said that he would not be able to attend the flag hoisting function and expressed disappointment over getting the invitation "quite late". Opposition's demands during meet on eve of Special session Several political parties, including the ruling NDA and the opposition INDIA bloc, made a strong pitch for the passage of the women's reservation bill during the five-day Parliament session at the all-party meet on Sunday. On the women's reservation bill, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said all opposition parties demanded its passage in this Parliament session and criticised the government for not consulting them before summoning Parliament. Chowdhury told reporters that the government had informed them it was a regular session of Parliament. "Only the government knows what its intention is. It may surprise everyone with some new agenda," he said. The Congress demanded discussions on caste census, price rise, unemployment, the border row involving China, the Manipur violence, and social conflicts at some places. The Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, which was introduced in Rajya Sabha on August 10 and is listed on the government's agenda for passage in the coming session, was also criticised by some opposition leaders as "unconstitutional". At the all-party meeting, tributes were paid to security forces personnel who were killed last week in encounters with militants as leaders observed silence in their memory. Leaders at the all-party meeting at Parliament Library building, in New Delhi, on Sept. 17, 2023. (PTI) Meanwhile, DMK leader Tiruchi Siva accused the government of keeping other parties in the dark about the reason for calling the session, wondering what was the need for a regular sitting of Parliament when the Winter session was due in November. He wondered if the schedule for a group photo of all MPs on Tuesday meant that this was the last session of this Lok Sabha. Opposition sources said Siva tore the schedule for today's event in the meeting, claiming that he received the invite only on Friday night and the programme was only in Hindi. Some opposition leaders also protested the decision to not have the Question Hour and the Zero Hour during this session. A demand was also made to revoke the suspension of two AAP MPs, Sanjay Singh and Raghav Chadha. 51 leaders from 34 parties attended the meeting in which the government sought the cooperation of all the parties for a smooth conduct of the five-day session. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the deputy leader of the House in Lok Sabha, Union Minister Piyush Goyal, the leader of the House in Rajya Sabha, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi were among those who represented the government in the meeting. Former prime minister and JD(S) leader H D Deve Gowda, DMK's Kanimozhi, TDP's Ram Mohan Naidu, TMC's Derek O'Brien, AAP's Sanjay Singh, BJD's Sasmit Patra, BRS' K Keshava Rao, YSR Congress Party's V Vijayasai Reddy, RJD's Manoj Jha and JD(U)'s Anil Hegde and SP's Ram Gopal Yadav were also among those who attended the meeting. (With PTI, ANI inputs) Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Prime Minister Narendra Modi will speak in the Lok Sabha at the Special Parliament Session that will begin on Monday, as per reports. The five-day special session of Parliament will begin on Monday during which the parliamentary proceedings will shift from the old to the adjacent new state-of-the-art building on September 19, on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. The floor leaders of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) are scheduled to hold a meeting at the office of Rajya Sabha leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge before the start of the Parliament special session to chalk out the strategy for the floor of the house.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The Special Session of the Parliament will be held from September 18 to 22. After weeks of no information about the agenda, the government last week announced an agenda that included bills to be taken up for consideration and a discussion on the Parliamentary journey of 75 years. Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi on Sunday at at an all-party meeting stated that the Session will provide 5 sittings spread over a period of 5 days, besides informing that eight legislative items are likely to be taken up during this session. They include a Bill to regulate the appointment, conditions of service and term of office of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners. Opposition parties have opposed the Bill calling it anti-Constitution and anti-democracy. Opposition parties have raised questions on the government's agenda for the Parliament session, pointing out that a bulletin issued ahead of the session listing the tentative business is not "exhaustive". Pralhad Joshi also shared with leaders that there would be a photo session from 10.00 am to 10.45 am on September 19, 2023, followed by a function in the Central Hall starting at 11.00 am which will be graced by the Vice-President/Chairman, Rajya Sabha, the Prime Minister, Speaker, Lok Sabha, Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha and Leader of Largest Opposition Party in Lok Sabha and the Members of both the Houses of Parliament. After the conclusion of the function in the Central Hall, both Houses will meet in their respective Chambers in the New Parliament House. The Lok Sabha in the new Parliament building. (Central Vista website) The announcement of the Special Session came as a surprise in political circles with the parties gearing up for assembly polls in five states later this year. On Sunday, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar hoisted the national flag atop "Gaja Dwar" of the new Parliament building. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla was also present on the occasion. Prime Minister Modi was not present. Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge, who was in Hyderabad for a two-day meeting of the newly constituted Congress Working Committee, was also not present during the flag-hoisting ceremony. In a letter to Rajya Sabha Secretary General PC Mody on Saturday, Kharge said that he would not be able to attend the flag hoisting function and expressed disappointment over getting the invitation "quite late". Opposition's demands during meet on eve of Special session Several political parties, including the ruling NDA and the opposition INDIA bloc, made a strong pitch for the passage of the women's reservation bill during the five-day Parliament session at the all-party meet on Sunday. On the women's reservation bill, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said all opposition parties demanded its passage in this Parliament session and criticised the government for not consulting them before summoning Parliament. Chowdhury told reporters that the government had informed them it was a regular session of Parliament. "Only the government knows what its intention is. It may surprise everyone with some new agenda," he said. The Congress demanded discussions on caste census, price rise, unemployment, the border row involving China, the Manipur violence, and social conflicts at some places. The Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, which was introduced in Rajya Sabha on August 10 and is listed on the government's agenda for passage in the coming session, was also criticised by some opposition leaders as "unconstitutional". At the all-party meeting, tributes were paid to security forces personnel who were killed last week in encounters with militants as leaders observed silence in their memory. Leaders at the all-party meeting at Parliament Library building, in New Delhi, on Sept. 17, 2023. (PTI) Meanwhile, DMK leader Tiruchi Siva accused the government of keeping other parties in the dark about the reason for calling the session, wondering what was the need for a regular sitting of Parliament when the Winter session was due in November. He wondered if the schedule for a group photo of all MPs on Tuesday meant that this was the last session of this Lok Sabha. Opposition sources said Siva tore the schedule for today's event in the meeting, claiming that he received the invite only on Friday night and the programme was only in Hindi. Some opposition leaders also protested the decision to not have the Question Hour and the Zero Hour during this session. A demand was also made to revoke the suspension of two AAP MPs, Sanjay Singh and Raghav Chadha. 51 leaders from 34 parties attended the meeting in which the government sought the cooperation of all the parties for a smooth conduct of the five-day session. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the deputy leader of the House in Lok Sabha, Union Minister Piyush Goyal, the leader of the House in Rajya Sabha, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi were among those who represented the government in the meeting. Former prime minister and JD(S) leader H D Deve Gowda, DMK's Kanimozhi, TDP's Ram Mohan Naidu, TMC's Derek O'Brien, AAP's Sanjay Singh, BJD's Sasmit Patra, BRS' K Keshava Rao, YSR Congress Party's V Vijayasai Reddy, RJD's Manoj Jha and JD(U)'s Anil Hegde and SP's Ram Gopal Yadav were also among those who attended the meeting. (With PTI, ANI inputs) Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Vladimir Putin will use the threat of nuclear war to increase instability in the United States and Europe. "I think that he's going to continue threatening," Zelenskyy said. "He is waiting for the United States to become less stable. He thinks that's going to happen during the U.S. election. He will be looking for instability in Europe and the United States of America. He will use the risk of using nuclear weapons to fuel that [instability]. He will keep on threatening," he said in an interview with CBS published on Sunday. "If Ukraine falls, what will happen in ten years? Just think about it. If [the Russians] reach Poland, what's next? A Third World War?" He said. Zelenskyy admits the counteroffensive is moving slowly but says Ukrainian forces, made up mostly of conscripts, are making progress. The 700-mile front line has become an artillery duel, with both Russians and Ukrainians firing 40,000 shells a day. The drone war has also slowed progress. "It's a difficult situation. I will be completely honest with you. We have the initiative. This is a plus," Zelenskyy said. "We stopped the Russian offensive and we moved onto a counter-offensive. And despite that, it's not very fast. It is important that we are moving forward every day and liberating territory." "We need to liberate our territory as much as possible and move forward, even if it's less than [half a mile or] a hundred [yards] we must do it," Zelenskyy continued. "We mustn't give Putin a break." Mukesh Ranjan By Express News Service RANCHI: Three women in Jharkhand's Dhanbad were buried alive after a land sunk when they were walking on a makeshift road, built for coal transportation. The three women, who are trapped in the crater have been identified as Parla Devi (55), Thandi Devi (55) and Mandwa Devi (60), all residents of nearby Chhotki Bouwa Basti. One of the women was caught in the subsidence first, two others who had accompanied her tried to help but were buried too. The area has unstable old underground workings and is fire and subsidence affected. The Gondudih Khas Kusunda Colliery is operated by Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), a subsidiary of Coal India Limited. Dhanbads Jharia has been affected by underground fire for the last 100 years leading to land subsidence claiming several lives. Jharia coal mine is spread across an area of 450 sq km with nearly 5 lakh lives depending on the region. Fire continues to devour the underground in 67 different areas at Jharia and nearby regions. In many places, coal continues to burn at temperatures up to 700 degrees centigrade, a few meters below the earths surface, defying all human efforts to extinguish it. According to BCCL officials, the incident occurred around 12 noon. The women were reportedly walking on a makeshift road, built for coal transportation, when a portion of it suddenly caved in, they said. When asked about the delayed rescue operation, Jha informed that it took some time as the angered locals launched an attack on the colliery manager Dilip Kumar and assistant manager Rajesh Kumar. After pacifying them rescue operations began, the officer added. However, the locals alleged that the police and mine rescue teams of BCCL arrived hours later even when they were informed immediately. Apparently the land subsided due to the heavy rains. An outsourcing company is operating in the Gondudih project and has made a kuccha road for transporting purposes, said a local requesting anonymity. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp RANCHI: Three women in Jharkhand's Dhanbad were buried alive after a land sunk when they were walking on a makeshift road, built for coal transportation. The three women, who are trapped in the crater have been identified as Parla Devi (55), Thandi Devi (55) and Mandwa Devi (60), all residents of nearby Chhotki Bouwa Basti. One of the women was caught in the subsidence first, two others who had accompanied her tried to help but were buried too.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The area has unstable old underground workings and is fire and subsidence affected. The Gondudih Khas Kusunda Colliery is operated by Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), a subsidiary of Coal India Limited. Dhanbads Jharia has been affected by underground fire for the last 100 years leading to land subsidence claiming several lives. Jharia coal mine is spread across an area of 450 sq km with nearly 5 lakh lives depending on the region. Fire continues to devour the underground in 67 different areas at Jharia and nearby regions. In many places, coal continues to burn at temperatures up to 700 degrees centigrade, a few meters below the earths surface, defying all human efforts to extinguish it. According to BCCL officials, the incident occurred around 12 noon. The women were reportedly walking on a makeshift road, built for coal transportation, when a portion of it suddenly caved in, they said. When asked about the delayed rescue operation, Jha informed that it took some time as the angered locals launched an attack on the colliery manager Dilip Kumar and assistant manager Rajesh Kumar. After pacifying them rescue operations began, the officer added. However, the locals alleged that the police and mine rescue teams of BCCL arrived hours later even when they were informed immediately. Apparently the land subsided due to the heavy rains. An outsourcing company is operating in the Gondudih project and has made a kuccha road for transporting purposes, said a local requesting anonymity. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By PTI NEW DELHI: Congress leader Manish Tewari on Monday said it was unfortunate that Lok Sabha has for the last three years not witnessed any debate on the China issue which is important from the national security point. He also deplored any attempt to change the Constitution, saying it would be disastrous for the country. Participating in the discussion in Lok Sabha on "Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha -- Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings", Tewari said the ruling party should not refrain from bringing even the most difficult issue to the House. "It is unfortunate that there has been no debate on China having an implication on our national security since September 2020," he said. Tewari said that the government should consider increasing the number of sittings of Parliament to 120-130 days. Participating in the debate, Supriya Sule (NCP) also made a case for raising working days for Parliament. Nama Nageswara Rao (BRS) hoped that the long-pending women's reservation bill would be introduced in the new building of Parliament. There has been a demand from various parties to reserve one-third of all seats for women in Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies. Supporting the proposal, S T Hasan (SP) said the women's reservation bill should have a separate clause for SC/ST, OBC and Muslim women. Raising the issue of intolerance, Hasan said that Mahatma Gandhi never visualised a nation divided on religious lines. The MP also made a case for strengthening the Place of Worship Act. Chirag Paswan supported the women's reservation bill and the setting up of a National Judicial Commission. IUML member E T Mohammed Basheer alleged that the government is trying to distort history and threaten political parties through raids. Harsimrat Kaur Badal (SAD) recalled the contribution of Guru Teg Bahadur in promoting communal harmony and said that the new Parliament building should be dedicated to the concept of 'Hind Di Chadar'. Guru Tegh Bahadur is venerated as 'Hind Di Chadar' for defending religious freedom. The Shiromani Akali Dal MP also demanded that the women's reservation bill should be introduced at the earliest as it would help in raising issues faced by women wrestlers and the Manipur incidents. On agriculture, she said farmers don't need the slogan of doubling income but more substantive steps. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp NEW DELHI: Congress leader Manish Tewari on Monday said it was unfortunate that Lok Sabha has for the last three years not witnessed any debate on the China issue which is important from the national security point. He also deplored any attempt to change the Constitution, saying it would be disastrous for the country. Participating in the discussion in Lok Sabha on "Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha -- Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings", Tewari said the ruling party should not refrain from bringing even the most difficult issue to the House.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "It is unfortunate that there has been no debate on China having an implication on our national security since September 2020," he said. Tewari said that the government should consider increasing the number of sittings of Parliament to 120-130 days. Participating in the debate, Supriya Sule (NCP) also made a case for raising working days for Parliament. Nama Nageswara Rao (BRS) hoped that the long-pending women's reservation bill would be introduced in the new building of Parliament. There has been a demand from various parties to reserve one-third of all seats for women in Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies. Supporting the proposal, S T Hasan (SP) said the women's reservation bill should have a separate clause for SC/ST, OBC and Muslim women. Raising the issue of intolerance, Hasan said that Mahatma Gandhi never visualised a nation divided on religious lines. The MP also made a case for strengthening the Place of Worship Act. Chirag Paswan supported the women's reservation bill and the setting up of a National Judicial Commission. IUML member E T Mohammed Basheer alleged that the government is trying to distort history and threaten political parties through raids. Harsimrat Kaur Badal (SAD) recalled the contribution of Guru Teg Bahadur in promoting communal harmony and said that the new Parliament building should be dedicated to the concept of 'Hind Di Chadar'. Guru Tegh Bahadur is venerated as 'Hind Di Chadar' for defending religious freedom. The Shiromani Akali Dal MP also demanded that the women's reservation bill should be introduced at the earliest as it would help in raising issues faced by women wrestlers and the Manipur incidents. On agriculture, she said farmers don't need the slogan of doubling income but more substantive steps. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Ramashankar By Express News Service PATNA: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday raised the political temperature in the state by asserting that he was ready for an early election if the BJP-led government at the centre decided to do so. Responding to queries of media persons on the sidelines of a function in the state capital Nitish said that he was always ready for the election and maintained that it would be good for them if the Centre decided so. Humlog har samay taiyyar hain (we are always ready) and let them do so, Nitish said, apparently in response to union home minister and senior BJP leader Amit Shah's remarks on Saturday at an event in Bihar that Lok Sabha elections in the country could be pre-scheduled. Nitish said, The Centre wants to hold elections in the entire country much before its schedule. We are also waiting for them and ready for the polls. It is better if elections are held as early as possible as everything will be known. We are always ready for the elections Lok Sabha elections can be held before the scheduled time. The Centre has the right to do so, he said, adding that he had been saying for long that Centre was planning to hold early elections in the country. On the 5-day special session of the Parliament which commenced on Monday, CM said that it would have to be seen what was special in this special session and what the bill the Centre was introducing in the house and what would be its outcome. On BJP's claim that it did not consider the opposition alliance, INDIA, a challenge, Nitish said, We are servants of the people. We do not give challenges to anybody. We present all issues before them and people will make a decision on those who do not do good work. On the Centre bringing a bill on the appointment of the chief election commissioner and election commissioners, CM said that once all facts were known, everybody would speak on the matter in the House. It will be early to make any comment on it at this stage, he added.In response to a query, JD(U) supremo said, We all are united and intact. We have done a lot of development work in Bihar. From constructing roads, bridges, electricity and drinking water facilities to several other infrastructural projects. We have done a lot of work in the state. The electorate will make a final decision. Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, who was also present on the occasion, said that the INDIA alliance will fight unitedly to dethrone NDA at the centre in the 2024 Lok Sabha election. He said that the change of government at the centre made journalists free from all kinds of undue 'pressure' on them. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp PATNA: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday raised the political temperature in the state by asserting that he was ready for an early election if the BJP-led government at the centre decided to do so. Responding to queries of media persons on the sidelines of a function in the state capital Nitish said that he was always ready for the election and maintained that it would be good for them if the Centre decided so. Humlog har samay taiyyar hain (we are always ready) and let them do so, Nitish said, apparently in response to union home minister and senior BJP leader Amit Shah's remarks on Saturday at an event in Bihar that Lok Sabha elections in the country could be pre-scheduled.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Nitish said, The Centre wants to hold elections in the entire country much before its schedule. We are also waiting for them and ready for the polls. It is better if elections are held as early as possible as everything will be known. We are always ready for the elections Lok Sabha elections can be held before the scheduled time. The Centre has the right to do so, he said, adding that he had been saying for long that Centre was planning to hold early elections in the country. On the 5-day special session of the Parliament which commenced on Monday, CM said that it would have to be seen what was special in this special session and what the bill the Centre was introducing in the house and what would be its outcome. On BJP's claim that it did not consider the opposition alliance, INDIA, a challenge, Nitish said, We are servants of the people. We do not give challenges to anybody. We present all issues before them and people will make a decision on those who do not do good work. On the Centre bringing a bill on the appointment of the chief election commissioner and election commissioners, CM said that once all facts were known, everybody would speak on the matter in the House. It will be early to make any comment on it at this stage, he added.In response to a query, JD(U) supremo said, We all are united and intact. We have done a lot of development work in Bihar. From constructing roads, bridges, electricity and drinking water facilities to several other infrastructural projects. We have done a lot of work in the state. The electorate will make a final decision. Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, who was also present on the occasion, said that the INDIA alliance will fight unitedly to dethrone NDA at the centre in the 2024 Lok Sabha election. He said that the change of government at the centre made journalists free from all kinds of undue 'pressure' on them. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By Express News Service KOCHI: Activist Girish Babu (47) was found dead in his home in Kalamassery on Monday morning. According to the police, the preliminary investigation behind the death suggests he died after a cardiac arrest. Girish was undergoing treatment for health-related issues, which he also published through a Facebook post last month. The police reached Girish's house and started the inquest proceedings. Girish has been living with his family in Kalamassery and it was his wife who found him dead in the bedroom this morning, police said. "It seems like a case of cardiac arrest. However, we can reach a final conclusion only based on the autopsy report," said a police officer. Several public interest petitions filed by Girish have created a political stir in Kerala. The cases, including the Palarivattom flyover scam and the 'monthly payments' allegations against Veena Vijayan, daughter of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, hogged headlines recently. He moved to the Vigilance Court in Muvattupuzha, seeking an investigation into the alleged bribe paid by Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd. (CMRL) to Veena Vijayan. However, the court rejected the petition recently. Following this, he moved the High Court to hear the case. Girish's death came while the court was about to consider his petition today. Girish, who sought the probe citing revelations by the Income Tax Interim Board of Settlement (ITIBS), New Delhi, named the CM, and UDF leaders Ramesh Chennithala, P K Kunhalikutty, and V K Ebrahimkunju in the petition, claiming they, too, received bribes from CMRL. Veenas company, Exalogic Solutions, CMRL, its MD S N Sasidharan Kartha, chief financial officer K S Suresh Kumar, chief general manager P Suresh Kumar, and cashier K M Vasudevan were also been named in the plea Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp KOCHI: Activist Girish Babu (47) was found dead in his home in Kalamassery on Monday morning. According to the police, the preliminary investigation behind the death suggests he died after a cardiac arrest. Girish was undergoing treatment for health-related issues, which he also published through a Facebook post last month. The police reached Girish's house and started the inquest proceedings. Girish has been living with his family in Kalamassery and it was his wife who found him dead in the bedroom this morning, police said. "It seems like a case of cardiac arrest. However, we can reach a final conclusion only based on the autopsy report," said a police officer. googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Several public interest petitions filed by Girish have created a political stir in Kerala. The cases, including the Palarivattom flyover scam and the 'monthly payments' allegations against Veena Vijayan, daughter of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, hogged headlines recently. He moved to the Vigilance Court in Muvattupuzha, seeking an investigation into the alleged bribe paid by Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd. (CMRL) to Veena Vijayan. However, the court rejected the petition recently. Following this, he moved the High Court to hear the case. Girish's death came while the court was about to consider his petition today. Girish, who sought the probe citing revelations by the Income Tax Interim Board of Settlement (ITIBS), New Delhi, named the CM, and UDF leaders Ramesh Chennithala, P K Kunhalikutty, and V K Ebrahimkunju in the petition, claiming they, too, received bribes from CMRL. Veenas company, Exalogic Solutions, CMRL, its MD S N Sasidharan Kartha, chief financial officer K S Suresh Kumar, chief general manager P Suresh Kumar, and cashier K M Vasudevan were also been named in the plea Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By Express News Service HYDERABAD: Disputing the statement made by former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru on radio on September 17, 1948 and that of Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday, claiming that Hyderabad State was liberated without bloodshed, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi said that they both uttered lies. These lies were exposed by the Sunderlal Commission report, which found that 20,000 Muslims were killed in the police action as part of Operation Polo. Addressing a public meeting at Eidgah Hilali in Masab Tank, after taking out a Tiranga Rally during the National Integration Day celebrations on Sunday, Owaisi said that history shouldnt be forgotten, and that the same mistakes done in the past shouldnt be repeated in the future. Recalling Nehru and Patel saying that merger of Hyderabad State with the Indian Union was only a political integration, Owaisi cited Nehrus statement that Hyderabad was a microcosm of India.Former prime minister Indira Gandhi too submitted in the Parliament that it wasnt in the best interest of the nation to release Sundarlal Commission report, which he said, was rejected by Sardar Patel. Stating that the RSS, Jan Sangh and BJP came into existence decades later and had no role in the freedom struggle against the Nizams feudal rule, he said that they had no moral right to question how AIMIM could celebrate September 17 as the National Integration Day. Had I lived during the Nizams rule, I would have felt suffocated as a Baadshah ruled a feudal system with no constitution, liberty, equality, justice and fraternity. A few landlords owned all the wealth, and there were as many poor Hindus as the Muslims. Those who escaped to Pakistan were Razakars. Those (Majlis) who stayed back are Wafadars (trust-worthy) who have carried the spark after everything was destroyed after the police action, and have been fighting for the rights of Muslims, he said. While quipping that BJPs Bandi has been punctured, he stressed the need to drive out the descendants of Savarkar and Godse from the State.He also made his partys stand on the coming Assembly elections by using the famous Hyderabadi saying, Naye Mamu Se Natte Mamu Acche, which means an uncle with a flat nose is better than a new uncle. He referred to Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao as Chiccha, appreciating the BRS chiefs work for the welfare of Muslims. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp HYDERABAD: Disputing the statement made by former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru on radio on September 17, 1948 and that of Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday, claiming that Hyderabad State was liberated without bloodshed, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi said that they both uttered lies. These lies were exposed by the Sunderlal Commission report, which found that 20,000 Muslims were killed in the police action as part of Operation Polo. Addressing a public meeting at Eidgah Hilali in Masab Tank, after taking out a Tiranga Rally during the National Integration Day celebrations on Sunday, Owaisi said that history shouldnt be forgotten, and that the same mistakes done in the past shouldnt be repeated in the future. Recalling Nehru and Patel saying that merger of Hyderabad State with the Indian Union was only a political integration, Owaisi cited Nehrus statement that Hyderabad was a microcosm of India.Former prime minister Indira Gandhi too submitted in the Parliament that it wasnt in the best interest of the nation to release Sundarlal Commission report, which he said, was rejected by Sardar Patel.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Stating that the RSS, Jan Sangh and BJP came into existence decades later and had no role in the freedom struggle against the Nizams feudal rule, he said that they had no moral right to question how AIMIM could celebrate September 17 as the National Integration Day. Had I lived during the Nizams rule, I would have felt suffocated as a Baadshah ruled a feudal system with no constitution, liberty, equality, justice and fraternity. A few landlords owned all the wealth, and there were as many poor Hindus as the Muslims. Those who escaped to Pakistan were Razakars. Those (Majlis) who stayed back are Wafadars (trust-worthy) who have carried the spark after everything was destroyed after the police action, and have been fighting for the rights of Muslims, he said. While quipping that BJPs Bandi has been punctured, he stressed the need to drive out the descendants of Savarkar and Godse from the State.He also made his partys stand on the coming Assembly elections by using the famous Hyderabadi saying, Naye Mamu Se Natte Mamu Acche, which means an uncle with a flat nose is better than a new uncle. He referred to Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao as Chiccha, appreciating the BRS chiefs work for the welfare of Muslims. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Fayaz Wani By SRI NAGAR: The Pakistan army on Saturday gave cover fire to infiltrators along the Line of Control (LoC) and shot down an Indian quadcopter that was trying to ascertain their whereabouts. Indian troops noticed terrorists trying to cross the LoC in Uri in north Kashmir's Baramulla in the early hours of Saturday, a Srinagar-based defence spokesman said. In the firefight that ensured, the troops killed three terrorists. The security men fired on the militants attempting to sneak into this side of LoC. The militants retaliated and in the firefight, two militants were killed by noon and their bodies were recovered, he said. When the troops engaged a third militant near the LoC in gunfire, he received cover fire from the Pakistan Army. The third terrorist fell down towards the other side of LoC. While the operation was under progress, the quadcopter was flown to ascertain his whereabouts. However, the Pakistan Army shot it down, which establishes that they are abetting terrorism and assisting terrorists to infiltrate across the LoC, he said. Elsewhere, the security forces intensified their operation to track down two-three Lashkar-e-Toiba militants involved in recent killing of four security personnel, including three officers Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak and Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat. They are hiding in the dense Gadole forest area of Kokernag. A security official said troops are targeting their possible hideouts in caves in the forest area through rockets, mortar shells, grenades and ammunition from drones. One of their hideouts was damaged in mortar shelling and rocket fire on Friday. The official said troops were using drones and quadcopters to pinpoint the locations of cave-like hideouts of militants to target them through gunfire and mortar shells. Additional Director General of Police in Kashmir Vijay Kumar said the militants will be flushed out. Rifles, pistol recovered Two AK rifles, one pistol, seven hand grenades, one IED, cash of Rs 46,000 in Indian currency and Rs 6,000 in Pak currency were recovered at the site. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp SRI NAGAR: The Pakistan army on Saturday gave cover fire to infiltrators along the Line of Control (LoC) and shot down an Indian quadcopter that was trying to ascertain their whereabouts. Indian troops noticed terrorists trying to cross the LoC in Uri in north Kashmir's Baramulla in the early hours of Saturday, a Srinagar-based defence spokesman said. In the firefight that ensured, the troops killed three terrorists. The security men fired on the militants attempting to sneak into this side of LoC. The militants retaliated and in the firefight, two militants were killed by noon and their bodies were recovered, he said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); When the troops engaged a third militant near the LoC in gunfire, he received cover fire from the Pakistan Army. The third terrorist fell down towards the other side of LoC. While the operation was under progress, the quadcopter was flown to ascertain his whereabouts. However, the Pakistan Army shot it down, which establishes that they are abetting terrorism and assisting terrorists to infiltrate across the LoC, he said. Elsewhere, the security forces intensified their operation to track down two-three Lashkar-e-Toiba militants involved in recent killing of four security personnel, including three officers Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak and Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat. They are hiding in the dense Gadole forest area of Kokernag. A security official said troops are targeting their possible hideouts in caves in the forest area through rockets, mortar shells, grenades and ammunition from drones. One of their hideouts was damaged in mortar shelling and rocket fire on Friday. The official said troops were using drones and quadcopters to pinpoint the locations of cave-like hideouts of militants to target them through gunfire and mortar shells. Additional Director General of Police in Kashmir Vijay Kumar said the militants will be flushed out. Rifles, pistol recovered Two AK rifles, one pistol, seven hand grenades, one IED, cash of Rs 46,000 in Indian currency and Rs 6,000 in Pak currency were recovered at the site. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By AFP BAKU: Tensions over Nagorno-Karabakh eased a notch on Monday as aid deliveries resumed to the breakaway territory following an agreement between Armenian separatists and authorities in Azerbaijan. Armenia had accused Azerbaijan of fuelling a humanitarian crisis in the mountainous region -- internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan -- by closing the sole road linking the region with Armenia. It had said the closure of the Lachin corridor, which is policed by Russian peacekeepers, had led to food and medicine shortages in the region and accused Azerbaijan of ethnic cleansing, allegations Baku has denied. Baku has said separatists refused its proposal to reopen Lachin at the same time as the Aghdam road, which connects Nagorno-Karabakh with the rest of Azerbaijan. The months-long crisis as well as Azerbaijan's deployment of troops near Nagorno-Karabakh and along the border with Armenia had sparked fears of a fresh war between the arch-foes locked in a decades-long dispute over the region. The "simultaneous passage of the Red Cross cars was ensured" through the Lachin corridor and the Aghdam road on Monday, Hikmet Hajiyev, foreign policy advisor to Azerbaijan's president said on social media. "The whole international community once again witnessed that there was no so-called blockade but a deliberate self-blockade, weaponization and politicisation of humanitarian issues," he said. 'Sustained relief' Separatist authorities confirmed 23 tonnes of wheat flour from Armenia as well as medical supplies had been delivered to Nagorno-Karabakh "thanks to the agreement reached between the Red Cross's Stepanakert branch and Russian peacekeepers." "The delivery of cargo from the Russian city of Rostov is planned by Red Cross vehicles in several days via the same routes." Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan recently said some 2,000 Russian peacekeepers were either "unable or unwilling" to control the road as part of a 2020 ceasefire deal between Baku and Yerevan. The International Committee of the Red Cross said it had managed to deliver "wheat flour and essential medical items" through the two roads thanks to "a humanitarian consensus" between regional "decision-makers." Nagorno-Karabakh residents "urgently need sustained relief through regular humanitarian shipments," said Ariane Bauer, ICRC's regional director for Europe and Central Asia. The European Union and the United States have called for the reopening of the Lachin and Aghdam routes for humanitarian aid. Azerbaijan's Armenian-populated enclave was at the centre of two wars between Armenia and Azerbaijan -- in 2020 and in the 1990s. Six weeks of fighting ended in autumn 2020 with a Russian-brokered truce that saw Armenia cede swathes of territory it had controlled since the 1990s. There have been frequent clashes at the two countries' shared border despite the ongoing peace talks between Baku and Yerevan under the mediation of the European Union and the United States. Armenia and Azerbaijan have said they are committed to the conflict's peaceful settlement, but the negotiations have so far failed to bring about a breakthrough. When the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, ethnic Armenian separatists in Karabakh broke away from Azerbaijan. The ensuing conflict claimed some 30,000 lives. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp BAKU: Tensions over Nagorno-Karabakh eased a notch on Monday as aid deliveries resumed to the breakaway territory following an agreement between Armenian separatists and authorities in Azerbaijan. Armenia had accused Azerbaijan of fuelling a humanitarian crisis in the mountainous region -- internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan -- by closing the sole road linking the region with Armenia. It had said the closure of the Lachin corridor, which is policed by Russian peacekeepers, had led to food and medicine shortages in the region and accused Azerbaijan of ethnic cleansing, allegations Baku has denied. Baku has said separatists refused its proposal to reopen Lachin at the same time as the Aghdam road, which connects Nagorno-Karabakh with the rest of Azerbaijan.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The months-long crisis as well as Azerbaijan's deployment of troops near Nagorno-Karabakh and along the border with Armenia had sparked fears of a fresh war between the arch-foes locked in a decades-long dispute over the region. The "simultaneous passage of the Red Cross cars was ensured" through the Lachin corridor and the Aghdam road on Monday, Hikmet Hajiyev, foreign policy advisor to Azerbaijan's president said on social media. "The whole international community once again witnessed that there was no so-called blockade but a deliberate self-blockade, weaponization and politicisation of humanitarian issues," he said. 'Sustained relief' Separatist authorities confirmed 23 tonnes of wheat flour from Armenia as well as medical supplies had been delivered to Nagorno-Karabakh "thanks to the agreement reached between the Red Cross's Stepanakert branch and Russian peacekeepers." "The delivery of cargo from the Russian city of Rostov is planned by Red Cross vehicles in several days via the same routes." Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan recently said some 2,000 Russian peacekeepers were either "unable or unwilling" to control the road as part of a 2020 ceasefire deal between Baku and Yerevan. The International Committee of the Red Cross said it had managed to deliver "wheat flour and essential medical items" through the two roads thanks to "a humanitarian consensus" between regional "decision-makers." Nagorno-Karabakh residents "urgently need sustained relief through regular humanitarian shipments," said Ariane Bauer, ICRC's regional director for Europe and Central Asia. The European Union and the United States have called for the reopening of the Lachin and Aghdam routes for humanitarian aid. Azerbaijan's Armenian-populated enclave was at the centre of two wars between Armenia and Azerbaijan -- in 2020 and in the 1990s. Six weeks of fighting ended in autumn 2020 with a Russian-brokered truce that saw Armenia cede swathes of territory it had controlled since the 1990s. There have been frequent clashes at the two countries' shared border despite the ongoing peace talks between Baku and Yerevan under the mediation of the European Union and the United States. Armenia and Azerbaijan have said they are committed to the conflict's peaceful settlement, but the negotiations have so far failed to bring about a breakthrough. When the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, ethnic Armenian separatists in Karabakh broke away from Azerbaijan. The ensuing conflict claimed some 30,000 lives. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By PTI WASHINGTON: For a second time in as many days, Indian-American Republican White House aspirant Vivek Ramaswamy has criticised the popular H-1B visa programme, saying the current lottery system needs to be "gutted" and replaced with a "meritocratic" skill-based immigration scheme to match the needs of the US. "It's a lottery. Why on earth would you use a lottery when you could use meritocratic admission instead, restore merit," Ramaswamy told Fox News in an interview on Sunday. The H-1B visa, much sought-after among Indian IT professionals, is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. Technology companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China. ALSO READ | Vivek Ramaswamy vows to end H-1B visa system, despite using it 29 times "We have to gut that system, restore meritocratic immigration, which is skills, not just tech skills, but all kinds of skills to match the needs we have in this country, but also civic commitments to this country. Take the citizenship test on the back end. I say move it to the front end even to get a visa," Ramaswamy said. "There's also lobbying-based provisions where companies who sponsor somebody, that H-1B immigrant cannot work for a different company unless they actually have a whole bureaucratic process to go through," the 38-year-old biotech entrepreneur, who is vying with former US president Donald Trump and others to get the Republican Party's nomination for the 2024 presidential election, said. Ramaswamy's latest remark comes a day after he told Politico that the H-1B system is "bad for everyone" involved. "So yes I come from a place of understanding. And I've played within the rules given to us by the government, but part of my job as US president is to reform those rules to help all Americans. And I won't apologise for restoring merit," said Ramaswamy, whose former company Roivant Sciences used the programme 29 times from 2018 through 2023 to hire foreign employees under H-1B visas. Ramaswamy stepped down as chief executive officer of Roivant, a pharmaceutical company, in February 2021 but remained the chair of the company's board of directors until February this year when he announced his presidential campaign. As of March 31, the company and its subsidiaries had 904 full-time employees, including 825 in the US, according to its Securities and Exchange Commission filings. "The lottery system needs to be replaced by actual meritocratic admission. It's a form of indentured servitude that only accrues to the benefit of the company that sponsored an H-1B immigrant. I'll gut it," the multimillionaire told Politico. "The people who come as family members are not the meritocratic immigrants who make skills-based contributions to this country," the White House aspirant said, adding that the US needed to eliminate chain-based migration. When asked about the mismatch in the Republican presidential hopeful's policy stance and his past business practices, his press secretary Tricia McLaughlin said the role of a policymaker "is to do what's right for a country overall: the system is broken and needs to be fixed." "Vivek believes that regulations overseeing the US energy sector are badly broken, but he still uses water and electricity," she said in a statement. "This is the same." ALSO READ | Vivek Ramaswamy plans to fire 75 per cent of US govt staff if elected President Ramaswamy, who is himself the child of immigrants, has captured headlines for his restrictionist immigration policy agenda. He also said he would use military force to secure the border, and that he would deport US-born children of undocumented immigrants. H-1B visas are highly sought after, and the demand for these workers continues to increase. For fiscal year 2021, US businesses submitted 780,884 applications for just 85,000 available slots, jumping by more than 60 per cent. Every year, the US gives 65,000 H-1B visas which are open to all and 20,000 to those with advanced US degrees. Ramaswamy's harsh proposals have helped him stand out in the crowded primary field, according to US media reports. Last week, Ramaswamy said he would fire 75 per cent of the federal workforce if elected the President. Ramaswamy has garnered attention after his maiden Republican presidential primary debate held on August 23. The first poll after the debate said that 28 per cent of the 504 respondents said that Ramaswamy performed the best. He was followed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis with 27 per cent, and former vice president Mike Pence (13 per cent). Indian-American Nikki Haley received seven per cent of the votes. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp WASHINGTON: For a second time in as many days, Indian-American Republican White House aspirant Vivek Ramaswamy has criticised the popular H-1B visa programme, saying the current lottery system needs to be "gutted" and replaced with a "meritocratic" skill-based immigration scheme to match the needs of the US. "It's a lottery. Why on earth would you use a lottery when you could use meritocratic admission instead, restore merit," Ramaswamy told Fox News in an interview on Sunday. The H-1B visa, much sought-after among Indian IT professionals, is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. Technology companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); ALSO READ | Vivek Ramaswamy vows to end H-1B visa system, despite using it 29 times "We have to gut that system, restore meritocratic immigration, which is skills, not just tech skills, but all kinds of skills to match the needs we have in this country, but also civic commitments to this country. Take the citizenship test on the back end. I say move it to the front end even to get a visa," Ramaswamy said. "There's also lobbying-based provisions where companies who sponsor somebody, that H-1B immigrant cannot work for a different company unless they actually have a whole bureaucratic process to go through," the 38-year-old biotech entrepreneur, who is vying with former US president Donald Trump and others to get the Republican Party's nomination for the 2024 presidential election, said. Ramaswamy's latest remark comes a day after he told Politico that the H-1B system is "bad for everyone" involved. "So yes I come from a place of understanding. And I've played within the rules given to us by the government, but part of my job as US president is to reform those rules to help all Americans. And I won't apologise for restoring merit," said Ramaswamy, whose former company Roivant Sciences used the programme 29 times from 2018 through 2023 to hire foreign employees under H-1B visas. Ramaswamy stepped down as chief executive officer of Roivant, a pharmaceutical company, in February 2021 but remained the chair of the company's board of directors until February this year when he announced his presidential campaign. As of March 31, the company and its subsidiaries had 904 full-time employees, including 825 in the US, according to its Securities and Exchange Commission filings. "The lottery system needs to be replaced by actual meritocratic admission. It's a form of indentured servitude that only accrues to the benefit of the company that sponsored an H-1B immigrant. I'll gut it," the multimillionaire told Politico. "The people who come as family members are not the meritocratic immigrants who make skills-based contributions to this country," the White House aspirant said, adding that the US needed to eliminate chain-based migration. When asked about the mismatch in the Republican presidential hopeful's policy stance and his past business practices, his press secretary Tricia McLaughlin said the role of a policymaker "is to do what's right for a country overall: the system is broken and needs to be fixed." "Vivek believes that regulations overseeing the US energy sector are badly broken, but he still uses water and electricity," she said in a statement. "This is the same." ALSO READ | Vivek Ramaswamy plans to fire 75 per cent of US govt staff if elected President Ramaswamy, who is himself the child of immigrants, has captured headlines for his restrictionist immigration policy agenda. He also said he would use military force to secure the border, and that he would deport US-born children of undocumented immigrants. H-1B visas are highly sought after, and the demand for these workers continues to increase. For fiscal year 2021, US businesses submitted 780,884 applications for just 85,000 available slots, jumping by more than 60 per cent. Every year, the US gives 65,000 H-1B visas which are open to all and 20,000 to those with advanced US degrees. Ramaswamy's harsh proposals have helped him stand out in the crowded primary field, according to US media reports. Last week, Ramaswamy said he would fire 75 per cent of the federal workforce if elected the President. Ramaswamy has garnered attention after his maiden Republican presidential primary debate held on August 23. The first poll after the debate said that 28 per cent of the 504 respondents said that Ramaswamy performed the best. He was followed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis with 27 per cent, and former vice president Mike Pence (13 per cent). Indian-American Nikki Haley received seven per cent of the votes. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp By Associated Press AZERBAIJAN: Standing on an overcast morning on a street in Stepanakert, the main city in breakaway Nagorno-Karabakh, Olga Grigoryan says locals fear another war with Azerbaijani forces could be imminent. Three years after an Azerbaijani-Armenian war for control of the mountainous territory ended with a fragile Russian-brokered truce, the situation remains volatile. The summer of near-daily clashes with Baku's military in Nagorno-Karabakh has turned to autumn and fears of a fresh all-out conflict. "We are in a permanent fear that a war would erupt again," Grigoryan told AFP. "The situation is escalating more and more, day by day. People are simply afraid that they will wake up tomorrow to the sound of bombings, just as in 2020," she said. "We don't know how to live in such a situation, how to raise children when we live under constant stress, and nobody wants to help us." Internationally-mediated peace talks have failed to bring about a breakthrough and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said recently that large-scale hostilities could reignite, accusing Baku of massing troops near Nagorno-Karabakh and along the two countries' frontier. 'Serious provocation' In what was praised as a first step towards a lasting peace, Pashinyan said in May that Armenia was recognising Nagorno-Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan. But Baku accuses him of acting contrary to the statement as Yerevan continues to fund ethnic-Armenian separatist forces from its state budget. "Some recent actions of the Armenian leadership have caused serious damage to the peace process," Hikmet Hajiyev, an influential foreign policy adviser to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, told AFP. He referred particularly to Pashinyan's congratulatory letter on Nagorno-Karabakh's independence day on September 2, which sparked Baku's anger. "The holding of so-called 'presidential elections' (in Nagorno-Karabakh) on September 9 was yet another serious provocation," he added, accusing Yerevan of "torpedoing attempts of dialogue" between the central government in Baku and separatists in Stepanakert. The European Union and United States -- who mediate peace talks between the Caucasus arch-foes -- have said the vote was illegitimate. Yerevan, on its part, accused Baku of spurring a humanitarian crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh by blocking the sole road linking the region with Armenia, the Lachin corridor, which is policed by Russian peacekeepers. 'Big regional war' Analysts have said the lack of progress at peace talks fuels tensions and raises the spectre of a new war. "The probability of a new armed conflict is undoubtedly very high as Azerbaijan is intensively concentrating troops at the border with Armenia and near Karabakh, and is increasing its units' cohesion there," independent Armenian analyst Beniamin Matevosyan told AFP. Azerbaijani political expert Farhad Mammadov said "The risk of a renewed large-scale fighting will always remain high as long as the peace treaty is not signed." He said Baku is likely to "attack the territory of Armenia proper in case Yerevan intervenes militarily in Karabakh." Hakob Balayan, an Armenian analyst, said "An Azerbaijani attack on Armenian soil would lead to a big regional war" that would involve Baku's ally Turkey as well as Ankara's historical rival Iran, which is wary of the growing Turkish influence in the strategic Caucasus region. Nagorno-Karabakh was at the centre of two wars between Azerbaijan and Armenia. In the 1990s, Armenia defeated Azerbaijan and took control of the region, along with seven adjacent districts of Azerbaijan. Thirty years later, energy-rich Turkic-speaking Azerbaijan, which built a strong military and secured the backing from Ankara, took revenge. In autumn 2020, Russia brokered a ceasefire to end six-weeks of fighting and deployed 2,000 peacekeepers to the Lachin corridor, which connects Armenia to Nagorno-Karabakh. Under the deal, Yerevan ceded swathes of territory it had controlled for decades, in what was seen as a national humiliation in Armenia where public opinion is largely in favour of retaking Nagorno-Karabakh. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp AZERBAIJAN: Standing on an overcast morning on a street in Stepanakert, the main city in breakaway Nagorno-Karabakh, Olga Grigoryan says locals fear another war with Azerbaijani forces could be imminent. Three years after an Azerbaijani-Armenian war for control of the mountainous territory ended with a fragile Russian-brokered truce, the situation remains volatile. The summer of near-daily clashes with Baku's military in Nagorno-Karabakh has turned to autumn and fears of a fresh all-out conflict.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "We are in a permanent fear that a war would erupt again," Grigoryan told AFP. "The situation is escalating more and more, day by day. People are simply afraid that they will wake up tomorrow to the sound of bombings, just as in 2020," she said. "We don't know how to live in such a situation, how to raise children when we live under constant stress, and nobody wants to help us." Internationally-mediated peace talks have failed to bring about a breakthrough and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said recently that large-scale hostilities could reignite, accusing Baku of massing troops near Nagorno-Karabakh and along the two countries' frontier. 'Serious provocation' In what was praised as a first step towards a lasting peace, Pashinyan said in May that Armenia was recognising Nagorno-Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan. But Baku accuses him of acting contrary to the statement as Yerevan continues to fund ethnic-Armenian separatist forces from its state budget. "Some recent actions of the Armenian leadership have caused serious damage to the peace process," Hikmet Hajiyev, an influential foreign policy adviser to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, told AFP. He referred particularly to Pashinyan's congratulatory letter on Nagorno-Karabakh's independence day on September 2, which sparked Baku's anger. "The holding of so-called 'presidential elections' (in Nagorno-Karabakh) on September 9 was yet another serious provocation," he added, accusing Yerevan of "torpedoing attempts of dialogue" between the central government in Baku and separatists in Stepanakert. The European Union and United States -- who mediate peace talks between the Caucasus arch-foes -- have said the vote was illegitimate. Yerevan, on its part, accused Baku of spurring a humanitarian crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh by blocking the sole road linking the region with Armenia, the Lachin corridor, which is policed by Russian peacekeepers. 'Big regional war' Analysts have said the lack of progress at peace talks fuels tensions and raises the spectre of a new war. "The probability of a new armed conflict is undoubtedly very high as Azerbaijan is intensively concentrating troops at the border with Armenia and near Karabakh, and is increasing its units' cohesion there," independent Armenian analyst Beniamin Matevosyan told AFP. Azerbaijani political expert Farhad Mammadov said "The risk of a renewed large-scale fighting will always remain high as long as the peace treaty is not signed." He said Baku is likely to "attack the territory of Armenia proper in case Yerevan intervenes militarily in Karabakh." Hakob Balayan, an Armenian analyst, said "An Azerbaijani attack on Armenian soil would lead to a big regional war" that would involve Baku's ally Turkey as well as Ankara's historical rival Iran, which is wary of the growing Turkish influence in the strategic Caucasus region. Nagorno-Karabakh was at the centre of two wars between Azerbaijan and Armenia. In the 1990s, Armenia defeated Azerbaijan and took control of the region, along with seven adjacent districts of Azerbaijan. Thirty years later, energy-rich Turkic-speaking Azerbaijan, which built a strong military and secured the backing from Ankara, took revenge. In autumn 2020, Russia brokered a ceasefire to end six-weeks of fighting and deployed 2,000 peacekeepers to the Lachin corridor, which connects Armenia to Nagorno-Karabakh. Under the deal, Yerevan ceded swathes of territory it had controlled for decades, in what was seen as a national humiliation in Armenia where public opinion is largely in favour of retaking Nagorno-Karabakh. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp Finnish President Sauli Niinisto warns European leaders and citizens against complacency due to the risk of escalating Russia's war against Ukraine, he said in an interview with The New York Times (NYT). According to him, the invasion was a "wake-up call" for Europe and NATO. "It was ringing loudly in February 2022. But do you hear it anymore? ... do all Europeans understand that this is a European problem," he said. The war in Ukraine, the Finnish president believes, will last a long time, and wars can take unexpected paths, including the use of nuclear weapons. "The risk that nuclear weapons could be used is tremendous," he said. Referring to the wreckage of a Russian drone that recently fell on the territory of Romania, which is a member of NATO, Niinisto also warned: "We are in a very sensitive situation. Even small things can change matters a great deal and unfortunately for the worse. That us the risk of such large-scale warfare." Lucknow, Sep 17 A committee set up by the Yogi Adityanath government to look into the causes of tiger deaths in Dudhwa Tiger Reserve in the last few months, has recommended that all 18 villages lying inside the tiger reserve be relocated "immediately" as increasing human population and growing agricultural, social and commercial activities were adding to the biotic pressure on the protected areas. The committee has also recommended getting a scientific study done of the Reserve for better management. The study of the quality of habitat and availability of prey base should also be taken up in a scientific manner like in reserves in Uttarakhand and MP, said the committee. The committee has submitted its report to the state government and suggested that attention on grasslands, habitat, corridors and water availability, besides the physical infrastructure that is needed to support the increasing number of big cats. The cultivation of 'satha' paddy (summer crop) in areas around the reserve further depletes the water availability for wildlife in summers. It is a water intensive crop. At the same time, extensive use of pesticides in farming pollutes the water and animals drinking it have an adverse impact on their health. The committee recommended checking the use of pesticides. The report highlighted a substantial increase in the construction of concrete roads in and around the reserve maximising the chances of man-animal conflict. On June 9, when the fourth tiger death was reported, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had instructed forest Minister Arun Kumar Saxena and senior officials from the department to visit the site where the carcass was recovered and submit a report. Senior officials posted at DTR were also transferred as a fallout. The state government later constituted a four-member high-level committee to look into the cause of deaths and recommend ways for better management of wildlife. The committee, in its report, said another challenge at DTR was shortage of staff. "The staff strength is almost half of the sanctioned, which affects monitoring of the area and the wildlife. Of the 399 sanctioned posts of field staff (forest guards, wildlife guards, deputy rangers and rangers) only 198 are occupied. These must be filled up immediately," said the report. The committee took into account the post-mortem report that hinted towards some of the dead felines having no traces of food and water in their stomachs. Taking note of it, the committee said since DTR has seen a gradual increase in the number of tigers, there was a need to match it up with the population of herbivores (prey base) or it will lead to increased man-animal conflict. amita/dpb Panel recommends relocation of 18 villages from Dudhwa Tiger Reserve Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! San Francisco, Sep 17 M icrosoft has shut down its most applauded feature, "Web Select" -- from Edge browser. To improve end-user experience, the Web Select feature "is being deprecated and will no longer be an option under Web Capture or via keyboard shortcut," Microsoft said in a support document. According to BleepingComputer, users could use this tool to capture and copy web content while maintaining its format and functionality. Web Select, which could be accessed via the menu or the Control+Shift+X shortcut, gave it an advantage over simple screenshot tools. Moreover, users could interact with the copied text instead of static images, such as editing it or accessing embedded links. This feature was especially useful when users wanted to lift sections of tables, allowing them to omit unnecessary columns for faster copying, the report said. Last month, after iOS and Android, Microsoft announced to shut down its digital assistant Cortana app on Windows 11. While Cortana in Windows as a standalone app is deprecated, the support for Cortana in Teams mobile, Microsoft Teams display, and Microsoft Teams Rooms will end in the fall of 2023. "Cortana in Outlook mobile will continue to be available. We understand this may affect the way you work, but there are new and exciting ways you can get help with your tasks, calendar, email, and more," the company said in an update. Microsoft Edge shuts tablet-friendly 'Web Select' feature Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! 10 most famous Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in India you can't miss New Delhi, Sep 17 I ndia's bustling and well-known Ganesh Chaturthi festival honors Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity of knowledge and prosperity. Ganesha idols are installed during the event, along with prayers, customs, and public meetings. Thomas Cook and SOTC Travel have created a list of 10 of India's most well-known Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations that you shouldn't miss: Mumbai, Maharashtra Mumbai is known for its epic Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. Massive Ganesha idols, ornate decorations, and spectacular processions bring the city to life. The Arabian Sea idol immersion is a highlight that draws a sizable number of people. Pune, Maharashtra Pune is known for its rich cultural legacy and its Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. Throughout the festival, the city hosts a large number of pandals (temporary decorative buildings) and holds a number of cultural events. Hyderabad, Telangana Huge processions with finely carved idols highlight Hyderabad's Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. The towering and beautifully crafted idols of the Khairatabad Ganesh are especially well known. Bengal, West Kolkata While Ganesh Chaturthi is not as well-known in Kolkata as it is in other regions of India, the city nevertheless sees some lovely decorations and celebrations, frequently fusing the event with local culture. Delhi Ganesh Chaturthi is enthusiastically observed in the capital city. Ganesha idols can be found in numerous pandals and temples, and the festival spirit permeates the entire city. Chennai, Tamil Nadu The Ganesh Chaturthi festivities in Chennai are a blend of tradition and fun. In addition to processions, idols are kept in the Kapaleeshwarar Temple and other nearby temples. Goa Ganesh Chaturthi is enthusiastically observed in Goa. After the event, many villages construct lovely pandals and submerge the idols in rivers or the sea. Nashik, Maharashtra Nashik celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi with colorful processions and imaginative idols. An important event is the submersion of the idols in the Godavari River. Bengaluru, Karnataka Bengaluru hosts a variety of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, including neighborhood fairs and private homes with idols. Important locations include the Bull Temple and the Dodda Ganesh Temple. Jaipur, Rajasthan The popularity of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in Jaipur is growing. A magnificent display of decorations and public processions mark the celebration. These are just a few of India's numerous, exuberant Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. The festival is enhanced by the distinct flavors of each location, creating a genuinely vibrant and varied celebration of the birth of Lord Ganesha. (IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in) ianslife/tb 10 most famous Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in India you can't miss Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Kyiv police have opened criminal proceedings into the death of former head of Kherson Regional Military Administration Hennadiy Lahuta, spokesperson of the Main Directorate of the National Police in Kyiv Yulia Hirdvilis told Interfax-Ukraine. "On September 13, a wife contacted the police with information about her husband's disappearance. On September 16, he was found dead near the garages," the police spokesperson said. She said, following the death of Lahuta, Solomiansky district police department of Kyiv opened criminal proceedings under Article 115 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (premeditated murder) with the mark "suicide." As reported, Zelenskyy appointed Lahuta to the post of head of the regional administration on October 27, 2021. Previously, he served as deputy head of the regional administration. On July 9, 2022, by decree of Zelenskyy, Lahuta was relieved of his post. On February 3, 2023, the State Security Service of Ukraine notified Lahuta of suspicion of fraud and forgery of documents. Information about the death of the former head of the regional administration appeared on Sunday. Deputy of Kherson Regional Council Serhiy Khlan expressed confidence that Lahuta committed suicide. "I do not believe that Lahuta was killed, but I believe that due to pressure and intimidation he was driven to such a state of despair," he said on Facebook. 'PS1', 'Rocketry' and many others steal the spotlight on second night of SIIMA New Delhi, Sep 17 T he second night of the SIIMA saw the winners for Tamil and Malayalam cinema announced, with 'Ponniyin Selvan: Part 1', 'Rocketry' and 'Vikram' in Tamil, and 'Bro Daddy', 'Nna Thaan Case Kodu' and 'Hridayam' in Malayalam taking the spotlight. In Tamil, director Mani Ratnam's 'Ponniyin Selvan Part 1' led the race with 10 nominations, followed by the Kamal Haasan-starrer 'Vikram' with nine. R. Madhavan's 'Rocketry' nabbed the award for Best Leading Actor, while 'PS1' won the ultimate award for Best Film, narrowly inching out 'Rocketry', though Madhavan did win the award for Best Debutant Director. In Malayalam, 'Bheeshma Parvam' led the race with eight nods, followed by 'Thallumaala' with seven, though the biggest award was nabbed by 'Nna Thaan Case Kodu', which won Best Film. The race was a steep one in both categories, because much like the first night where Telugu and Kannada cinema had produced several critically and commercially acclaimed blockbusters, Tamil and Malayalam cinema did the same, so it was very hard to predict who would win the race, especially as the voting was done by a fan poll. In Tamil, the biggest contest was between 'Ponniyin Selvan Part 1' and 'Rocketry The Nambi Effect' with the former winning by a narrow margin. In Malayalam, it was between 'Bheeshma Parvam', 'Thallumaala' and 'Nna Thaan Case Kodu', though 'Thallumaala' won Best Leading Actor. SIIMA is an occasion to celebrate the artistry of South Indian cinema in the fields of direction, technical achievements, story writing and cinematography, as well as provide a platform to take South cinema to international audiences. The event was being held at the Dubai Trade Centre, between the dates of 15-16 September, with the first night giving off the awards to Telugu and Kannada, and the second for Tamil and Malayalam. 'PS1', 'Rocketry' and many others steal the spotlight on second night of SIIMA Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Musk vouches to 'fight for max freedom of speech under law' on X San Francisco, Sep 17 B illionaire Elon Musk on Sunday vouched that his social media company X, formerly Twitter, will fight for maximum freedom of speech under the law. Musk said that while his company follows the aforesaid policy, anyone working at X who does not comply with the principle can join "other social media companies who sell their soul for a buck", he wrote in a post on X. The Tesla CEO quoted a Washington Post article, which claimed prosecutors in German as saying that under Musk, X is complying with more requests from the country to identify users in hate speech cases, than before. The article also claims that this is in contrast to other countries such as Turkey and India, where X continues to legally contest censorship demands. "At the risk of stating the obvious, I don't know what's going on with every part of this platform all the time, but our policy worldwide is to fight for maximum freedom of speech under the law," Musk wrote in a post on X on Sunday. "Anyone working for X Corp who does not operate according to this principle will be invited to further their career at any one of the other social media companies who sell their soul for a buck." Recently, the Musk-owned X also filed a lawsuit alleging that a new California law requiring social media platforms to declare certain moderation practices is "unconstitutional" and a clear violation of the company's right to free speech. The law, called AB 587, requires social media companies to publicly detail moderation practices around hate speech, racism, extremism, disinformation, harassment and foreign political interference, TechCrunch reported. In the lawsuit, X said through AB 587, "the State is compelling social media companies to take public positions on controversial and politically-charged issues". "Because X Corp. must take such positions on these topics as they are formulated by the State, X Corp. is being forced to adopt the State's politically-charged terms, which is a form of compelled speech in and of itself," the lawsuit alleged. "AB 587 thus mandates X Corp. to speak about sensitive, controversial topics about which it does not wish to speak in the hopes of pressuring X Corp. to limit constitutionally-protected content on its platform that the State apparently finds objectionable or undesirable," it added. Responding to the lawsuit, California Assembly member Jesse Gabriel, and author of the AB 587 bill, said that it is "a pure transparency measure that simply requires companies to be upfront about if and how they are moderating content. It in no way requires any specific content moderation policies." The AB 587 bill was signed into law a year ago. rvt/sha Musk vouches to 'fight for max freedom of speech under law' on X Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Mumbai, Sep 17 P opular TV actor Karanvir Bohra is now taking a fun vacation in the beautiful serene mountains of Ladakh. Taking to Instagram, the actor posted a small snippet of himself throwing pebbles into a lake, and captioned "Sometimes on the peak of the highest motor pass #khardungla and sometimes at its foothills #ladakh #nubra is a place you have to go once in your lifetime" Detailing the disconnect he felt from the outside world and the serenity from just being in the Valley, he detailed his vacation, showing videos of him getting up in the morning light; with the golden sun shining resplendently on the mountainous terrain and many small shrubs of greenery. Waking up in the morning, he addressed his viewers and said in a sleepy voice "Good morning Ladakh. Oh wait this is Nubra, but then again Nubra is in Ladakh so yeah." In a video, he showed the outside view of the early morning and taking it all in, he said "This is the view from my place, and it is awesome. Unbelievable beauty." After that, the actor went outside wearing a simple black shirt and shorts looking at the serene valley and the morning sun. After that, Karanvir went to the Desert Himalayan Resort with some of his friends and detailed his time in Ladakh, showcasing its beauty and simply saying "This place is unbelievably good. Ladakh, so many thanks for your hospitality. Om Namo Shivay." Just a while ago, the actor who is a resident of Mumbai had posted an emotional note bidding farewell to the Mumbai double-decker bus service, which was disbanded by the state government. The actor, who also was a part of 'Bigg Boss 12' and is best known for his roles in serials such as 'Dil Se Di Dua... Saubhagyavati Bhava?', 'Naagin 2', 'Qubool Hai' along with films 'Kismat Konnection', 'Mumbai 125 KM', 'Love Yoou Soniye' and 'Hume Tumse Pyaar Kitna', is making his TV comeback after a brief hiatus. Karanvir is now all set to make a return in the new season of the television show 'Saubhagyavati Bhava-Niyam Aur Shartien Laagu', which is a spin-off of the original 'Dil Se Di Dua... Saubhagyavati Bhava?'. Karanvir Bohra on fun vacation in Ladakh's Nubra Valley Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! New Delhi, Sep 17 D irector Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri is all set to release his much awaited bio-science film 'The Vaccine War'. Going over its shooting, the director detailed the many technical aspects of the film, as well as some of its themes, one of which is in fact women empowerment. Taking to social media, 'The Kashmir Files' director shared a behind-the-scenes clip, which showcased some of the measures which he had used to make the film. The clip showcases a greater aspect regarding camerawork, polishing up the frames, creating the sets and photographing actual locations and real life documents, to make it seem as accurate as it can be while still keeping intact the film's focus. Also, since there is apparently little CGI in the film, the director had said that polishing up the whole thing was of paramount importance. This was in regards to the comparatively much greater and detailed production which was shown in the trailer. Regarding the technical aspects, Agnihotri stated "This time we had a higher budget and greater star power, as such it was easier to have a more polished design. We were able to conduct better camera work, and had to speak to many people just to get tidbits of information." Apart from that, he said "The very term bio-science in itself was controversial, because the term 'virology' is unknown to so many people, and they are quick to dismiss it. My objective was to create awareness among people that there is such a thing as bio-science." Unlike his previous blockbuster film, 'The Vaccine War' is a more technical film, given its many scientific details. As such, the director had stated in a YouTube interview "We have made the film in collaboration with ICMR and even spoke to members of IIT as well as researched documents from IIM. We conducted a full scale country-wide research while collaborating with IIM to find out the secrets of Covaxin, who made it and how it was really made. While talking about the vaccine, people only referred to biotech and serum, but no one really knew about the process. "My aim was mainly to uncover just how the formula was discovered, at a time when the whole country was shrouded in darkness and there was just a very stark bleakness. As such, I have called it a 'Bio-Science film' as opposed to a history film or anything." He also said that one of the themes of the film was in fact women empowerment. Talking about this, he said "We met everyone in the background while conducting our research, and to our surprise we found out that majority of the developers in this whole vaccine project were almost entirely women. This was not my intention, but after I found out this bit of information, I wanted to highlight this." 'The Vaccine War' is slated to release on September 28, 2023 and is a tribute meant to honour the medical fraternity of scientists and doctors who worked at the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, to manufacture vaccine. Vivek Agnihotri details technical aspects of filming 'The Vaccine War' Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Halle Berry seemingly calls out Drake for using a picture of her without consent Los Angeles, Sep 17 A ctress Halle Berry is not looking "too happy" with the rapper Drake at the moment, saying that the musician had not asked for her permission before sharing a picture of her covered in slime for his song 'Slime You Out'. The 57-year old 'X Men' actress, remembering the incident took to her Instagram and rather humorously quipped "Sometimes you have to be the bigger man. Even if you are a woman." Letting the message be self-explanatory, she added a hand emoji with the finger pointing up as the caption. This was seemingly addressed to the 36-year-old rapper not asking her for permission to use a photo of her covered in green "slime" during the 2012 Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards for the cover art of his new single 'Slime You Out' featuring SZA, according to People. Berry went on to confirm that this comment was directly referring to Drake, when she replied to an Instagram user who asked her in the comments what she thought of the cover art for Drake's newly announced single. "He didn't get my permission. That's not cool. I thought better of him!" the 'Bruised' director-star wrote in response. She added in another comment, "Hence my post today. When people you admire disappoint you, you have to be the bigger person and move on!" She also responded to another user who wrote, "It's the principle people... You get it... you get it.. you don't... ohhh well it's the principle! Exactly!! It's about principles and integrity. So happy many of you get that," Berry commented back. Halle Berry seemingly calls out Drake for using a picture of her without consent Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! EU President pledges action to help Italian island of Lampedusa amid surging migrants Rome, September 18 A mid the rising number of migrants in Lampedusa, EU President Ursula von der Leyen pledged action to help Italy's crisis-hit island during her visit on Sunday, CNN reported. Von der Leyen visited a migrant reception centre on the island after the Italian Prime Minister urged the European leader to extend help to the island. The EU president's visit came after Mayor Filippo Mannino warned on Thursday about Lampedusa's migrant crisis saying that it had reached a "point of no return". At least 130,000 migrants have arrived on the shores of Italy this year, which is almost double as compared to the previous year, CNN reported. Addressing a press conference along with Italian PM Georgia Meloni, Von Der Leyen said, "We will decide who comes to the European Union and under what circumstances, and not the smugglers and traffickers." Meanwhile, Meloni and the EU Chief met on Sunday to "offer a coordinated response by the Italian and European authorities" Von Der Leyen informed. "We have an obligation as part of the international community. We have fulfilled it in the past and we will do so today and in the future," she added. The EU president stressed that migration is a European challenge. "Migration is a European challenge and it needs a European answer and solution," she said. Meloni said the "problem" of migrants crossing the Mediterranean to Europe cannot be solved by redistributing migrants within European borders but rather requires tackling the problem externally and preventing the departure of migrants, according to CNN. Von Der Leyen promoted legal pathways and humanitarian corridors as measures to counter "smugglers' lies." "We will offer migrants real alternatives through this humanitarian admission. This is very important to break the vicious narrative of the smugglers," she added. Earlier, on Saturday, a newborn baby was found dead on a boat carrying people to Lampedusa even as dozens of the island's citizens protested over a surge in arrivals, Al Jazeera reported citing ANSA news agency. The Italian Coast Guard found the baby, saying that it was born during the journey and was found during a rescue operation. According to Al Jazeera, Lampedusa has seen thousands of landings this week alone, more than the island's permanent population. The situation has further triggered appeals for help from local politicians. The recent surge in arrivals has reignited the debate over how Europe shares responsibility for asylum seekers. EU President pledges action to help Italian island of Lampedusa amid surging migrants Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! New Delhi, Sep 18 P rime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his gratitude to President Droupadi Murmu, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, former President Ram Nath Kovind and other world leaders for wishing him on his 73rd birthday. While he individually thanked them for their wishes on his birthday, Modi in a separate post on X (formerly Twitter) said on Sunday, "Deeply touched by the outpouring of wishes today from all over India and the world. I thank each and every person who has shared their wishes. Overwhelmed to see so many people engaging in selfless social work on this day. Every gesture is special and strengthens our collective spirit." In a reply to President Droupadi Murmu's wishes, the Prime Minister expressed his heartfelt gratitude and said that her guidance is important for the nation's development. In a reply to Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar's wishes, Modi said, "Thank you @VPIndia Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji for the touching wishes." Reacting to former President Ram Nath Kovind's wishes on his birthday, Modi expressed his heartfelt gratitude and said that Kovind's words encourage him. Responding to former Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu's wishes on his birthday, the Prime Minister said, "Gratitude for your special wishes @MVenkaiahNaidu Garu." Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth also wished Modi on his birthday. "Heartiest wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji on his birthday. May him be blessed with good health and happiness. I have no doubt that his staunch resolve to serve his nation and uplift partners will remain as steady as ever. @narendramodi," Jugnauth posted on X. "Thank my friend PM @KumarJugnauth for his greetings," Modi replied. He also thanked Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for wishing him on his birthday. Modi expresses gratitude to President, Vice-President & world leaders for birthday wishes Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Vodafone Idea denies being in discussions to be acquired by Verizon, Amazon or Starlink New Delhi, Sep 18 V odafone Idea on Monday denied reports that it is in discussion to be acquired by Verizon, Amazon, or Starlink. In a regulatory filing, Vodafone Idea denied reports that it is being acquired by these parties and said the reports are incorrect. "We wish to submit that the said News Item is incorrect. The company is not in any such discussion with any of the named parties," it added. Vodafone Idea stock fell almost 6 per cent following the clarification. The stock is trading at Rs 11.04 on BSE. Vodafone India has made a requisite payment of Rs 1,701 crore to the Department of Telecommunications telecom department towards 2022 Spectrum Auction Instalment. In a regulatory filing, Vodafone Idea said the payment is in accordance with the terms of Notice Inviting Applications dated June 15, 2022. In an earlier filing on August 14, Vodafone Idea had said that the company has received a communication from a promoter group entity confirming that in the event of any fund requirement for meeting its impending payment obligations by the company, it shall provide direct or indirect financial support to the extent of Rs 2,000 crore. On August 24, CARE Ratings revised the outlook assigned to the long-term bank facilities and instruments of Vodafone Idea Limited (VIL) from 'Positive' to 'Stable' acknowledging delay in fund raising from investors and financial institutions against the envisaged timelines, while the ratings have been reaffirmed. The ratings factor in the experienced management team, pan-India telecom presence with high brand recognition supported by a stable outlook for the Indian telecommunications industry, stance of the promoter groups (i.e., the Aditya Birla group (ABG) and the Vodafone group Plc (VGP) ) in assisting the entity and majority shareholding (33.14 per cent as on June 30, 2023) of the government through the Department of Investment and Public Asset Management. (Sanjeev Sharma can be reached at Sanjeev.s@ians.in) Vodafone Idea denies being in discussions to be acquired by Verizon, Amazon or Starlink Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Nehru's 'Tryst with Destiny' speech will inspire future generations of lawmakers, says PM Modi New Delhi, Sep 18 P rime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, while delivering his last speech in the old Parliament House, said that the echo of nation's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru's iconic 'Tryst with Destiny' speech will always resound and continue to inspire the generations of future people's representatives. Recounting the 75 years of Parliament, the Modi said that during this period, around 7,500 MPs including 600 women MPs have represented the country during this period. Nehru, during his address to the nation on August 15, 1947, had said that, "At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom." "Today is an occasion to recollect and reminisce the Parliamentary journey of 75 years of India. We might be shifting to the new building but this building will keep on inspiring the coming generation as it is a golden chapter of the journey of Indian democracy," Modi said. "India will always feel pride for the inclusion of the African Union in G20 during its presidency," he added, while referring to the recently concluded Delhi G20 summit. "Today the world sees India as it's friend and in the G20 summit, the country emerged as a 'Vishwa Mitra'," he said. He said that the inclusive atmosphere of the House has kept manifesting the aspirations of the people with full power. "In the 75 years, the biggest achievement has been the continuously growing trust of the common citizen in their Parliament." Meanwhile speaking during the discussion on 75 years of Parliament's journey in Lok Sabha just after Modi, leader of the Congress Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury attacked the Centre over the violence in Manipur and the loss of Army officers in Jammu and Kashmir. Recalling Congress' opposition to the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, he said that soldiers are still sacrificing their lives in Jammu and Kashmir, which proves that their opposition was correct. He even sarcastically commented why this session is being called a special session when eight bills have been listed for discussion. "We don't understand if this is a special session or normal," he said. "We cannot attend the zero hour, we cannot attend the question hour, we don't understand what kind of a session it is," he said. Chowdhury recalled how the Speaker used to ring a bell when former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru used to exceed his time limit during his speech. He pointed out Nehru's contribution to India at a time when the country was reeling under the aftereffects of the India-Pakistan partition, poverty and other challenges. "Architect of modern India, Nehru had said that parliamentary democracy demands many virtues which are ability, certain devotion to work, and also a large measure of the corporation of self-discipline and restraint," Chowdhury said. He also highlighted the formation of the Atomic Energy Commission of India and the Indian Space and Research Organisation (Isro) under the prime ministers from the Congress party. "I am glad that this 'sadan' (parliament) discussed and hailed Nehru's contribution. Former prime minister Nehru led India through tough times and heard the voices of Opposition," he said. Chowdhury also said that as we are shifting to the new building of the Parliament, the values and lessons from the old building must not be forgotten. Nehru's 'Tryst with Destiny' speech will inspire future generations of lawmakers, says PM Modi Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Two of leopards trapped near Tirumala temple released Tirupati, Sep 18 A ndhra Pradesh forest department has released one of the four leopards captured on pedestrian walkway to the Tirumala temple into the forest and shifted another to Visakhapatnam Zoo after it was The forest officials released a leopard in Gundla Brahmeswaram Sanctuary and shifted another leopard to Indira Gandhi Zoo in Visakhapatnam. A forest official said the decision was taken after a DNA test report from Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) confirmed that these leopards had not mauled the girl to death. The two felines were captured by the forest officials on August 14 and 17. The official said DNA test reports of the remaining two leopards were awaited. Lakshitha (6) was attacked by a leopard while she was walking to Tirumala along the Alipiri footpath on August 11 evening. Her body was found behind Narasimha Swamy temple the next morning. Following the incident, the forest department has set up cages and launched an operation called 'Operation Chirutha'. A leopard was trapped in the cage on the trekking route on August 14. Three days later another leopard was caught. While the third leopard was captured on August 28 near Seven Miles, the fourth was trapped on September 7. All the leopards were shifted to SV Zoo Tirupati. Earlier, the forest department had trapped a leopard on June 25, three days after a three-year-old boy was attacked by a wild cat. The animal had tried to drag the boy into the forest but it was chased by pilgrims and security personnel. After the August 11 incident, the temple body had beefed up security along with Forest and Police departments at all the vulnerable points along the footpath route to the temple. ms/shb Two of leopards trapped near Tirumala temple released Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Retired US military counterintelligence special agent: If NATO truly interested in Ukraine's victory, it would already have supplied all necessary weapons Retired U.S. Military Intelligence Special Agent, Iraq War veteran and geopolitical analyst David DeBatto believes if NATO were truly interested in the victory of Ukraine and the defeat of Russia, they would have already provided everything necessary to the Ukrainian forces weapons, including modern fighter aircraft and long-range ATACMS systems. "I have been very vocal with my frustration over the restrictions placed on Ukraine in defending itself against Russian forces. That frustration (and occasional anger) is especially directed at the glacial pace of the Western allies in providing Ukraine with the weapons systems and ammunition needed to win the war against Russia, not just to survive another other bloody day," he told Interfax-Ukraine. According to DeBatto, this is about modern jet aircraft, "such as, but not limited to" the F-16, in numbers over 100; long range missile systems like the ATACMS and longer range HIMARS missiles; large numbers (200-300) of M1 tanks, Bradley Fighting Vehicles and Stryker's; "sufficient numbers" of combat engineering and mine clearing vehicles; several squadrons of attack helicopters. "If NATO were truly interested in supporting Ukraine to win the war and defeat Russia, they would have supplied all of the above (and more) already. Obviously, they are not interested in Ukraine winning the war, but merely fighting Russia to a stalemate with neither side becoming the winner or loser, but simply being bled to death," the retired U.S. military counterintelligence special agent said. He also said that in this scenario, Ukraine would be at a disadvantage, since its population is much smaller than that of Russia. DeBatto called it "a dangerous game being played by the West for not ensuring a Ukrainian victory and a Russian defeat." "It is truly Western cowardice and hypocrisy when telling Ukraine not to defend itself by attacking the very locations inside Russia that are launching continuous deadly attacks on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. If the situation were reversed, would NATO countries not respond in kind to attacks launched against their cities and infrastructure from locations inside Russia? Would Ukraine tell them not to defend themselves as NATO is now ordering Ukraine to do? I doubt that very much," DeBatto said. Speaking about the successes of the Defense and Security Forces of Ukraine, he called the actions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and Ukrainian special services "extraordinary." At the same time, DeBatto called himself "one of the few Western analysts that have not been surprised by the performance of Ukrainian forces since 24 February 2022." According to the official, he visited Ukraine several times and was familiar with "training and motivation of Ukrainian soldiers." However, DeBatto pointed out that since the full-scale Russian invasion, Ukraine has received significant foreign aid for military and intelligence services, as well as much more detailed intelligence and intelligence-gathering equipment from the United States and other NATO allies. He said this intelligence has significantly helped Ukraine both in planning military and intelligence operations and in targeting Russian force concentrations, as well as their control, command and logistics centers. "As for singling out Ukrainian Special Services and their performance thus far, I can say unequivocally that they have shown the entire world their unparalleled spirit, iron will, courage, flexibility, and unique inventiveness in planning and then attacking Russian assets in both covert and overt operations. Actions such as the attack on the Kerch Bridge, the many drone attacks in Russia and recently in Crimea and the Black Sea, and the complex but crucial investigations and arrests of high-level criminals and traitors among the ranks of ultra rich Oligarchs (and even some members of parliament and the judiciary), speak to the professionalism and integrity of all the agencies within the Ukrainian Special Services community," DeBatto said. However, he said fighting corruption, especially during war, is extremely important not only for winning the war, but also for subsequently achieving peace by establishing a stable democracy and "setting Ukraine on a clear path to membership in NATO and the European Union." Speaking about the Russian threat, such as bribing the Western establishment, financing it and helping it come to power, the analyst recalled that several high-ranking leaders in Europe, both in the public and private sectors, had "very lucrative contracts and even employment with Russian businesses, some closely connected to the Kremlin." According to DeBatto, in Germany for many years there has been "obvious conflict for many years, with Chancellors, members of parliament and regional officials receiving large financial benefits from consulting contracts with Russian companies, most notoriously, Gazprom, the state-controlled energy company." "However, well placed government and business leaders in several EU nations have also held positions on the boards of large Russian multinational companies for years and have expressed a 'both sides' attitude when it came to taking a stand on Russian aggression. Two examples of this abhorrent behavior are former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroder and ex-chancellor of Austria, Wolfgang Schussel. When asked about the 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Schroder stated that there were 'many mistakes on both sides.' When presented with the same question, Schussel said he saw no reason to quit his position on the board of the Lukoil, a Russian multinational company. Disgraceful," DeBatto said. As the expert noted, these "dangerous and cozy relationship got to the point that Germany was almost within just hours of approving the final connection of Nord Stream 2." Sit together and sort it out former PM Deve Gowda on Cauvery water row New Delhi, September 18 A s the Cauvery water sharing dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu is simmering, former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda on Monday said that the "quarrel" among two neighbouring states will not be solved "legally" and that a solution will come out only after both sides sit together. The Rajya Sabha MP, with folded hands, requested Tamil Nadu and Karnataka to sit together and sort out the problem. While speaking during the discussion on 'Parliamentary journey of 75 years, starting from Samvidhan Sabha-Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings', the JD MP in the Upper House said, "...Just only one word I would like to say, this quarrel will not be solved legally. If at all for friends who wants to have some sort of smooth understanding. Let all of us sit together and sort out the problem. Otherwise things will continue...and struggle from both sides will go on and this is not going to solve the problem...It's a humble request...I only pray this problem will not be solved unless we sit together try to sort out this problem from our sides. Legal battles certainly will not be going out to solve out this problem." In its deliberations held on Monday the Cauvery Water Management Authority has asked Karnataka to continue supply of 5000 cusecs of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu for the next 15 days effective September 13. The next meeting of the Authority has been scheduled for Septemeber 26. Meanwhile Tamil Nadu Water Resource Minister Durai Murugan is in Delhi with a delegation of MPs and MLAs to meet with Union Water Resource minister Gajendra Shekhawat in an effort to break the impasse over water release. Karnataka has cited severe drought in parts of its state to refuse supply of water to Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu Government has accused its neighbour of lying to the nation on the supply of water. The governments of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have been locked in a protracted tussle over the sharing of Cauvery waters. The river is seen as a major source of sustenance for the people in either state. The Centre formed the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal on June 2, 1990, to adjudicate disputes between Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Puducherry with respect to their individual water-sharing capacities. Sit together and sort it out former PM Deve Gowda on Cauvery water row Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! San Francisco, Sep 18 E xposure to certain endocrine-disrupting chemicals like PFAS and BPA found in everyday use products like plastics, nonstick cookware, dyes and may be playing a role in cancers of the breast, ovary, skin and uterus in women, suggests a study. PFAS is referred to as "forever chemicals" and has contaminated water, food and people through products such as Teflon pans, waterproof clothing, stain-resistant carpets and fabrics, and food packaging. While it does not prove that exposure to chemicals like PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances) and phenols (including BPA) led to these cancer diagnoses, researchers found that women who developed those cancers have significantly higher levels of these chemicals in their bodies. The study, published in the Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology, showed that women in particular who were more exposed to PFDE, a long-chain PFAS compound, were twice as likely to have a previous melanoma (form of skin cancer) diagnosis. While the women with higher exposure to two other long-chained PFAS compounds, PFNA (Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation) and PFUA (Perfluoroundecanoic acid) had nearly double the odds of a prior melanoma diagnosis. Researchers analysed blood and urine samples from more than 10,000 people and found a link between PFNA and a prior diagnosis of uterine cancer. They found that women with higher exposure to phenols, such as BPA (used in plastics) and 2,5-dichlorophenol (a chemical used in dyes and found as a by-product in wastewater treatment), had higher odds of prior ovarian cancer diagnoses. "These findings highlight the need to consider PFAS and phenols as whole classes of environmental risk factors for cancer risk in women," said Max Aung, Associate Professor of environmental health at University of Southern California's Keck School of Medicine. Researchers also identified that associations between various PFAS and ovarian and uterine cancers were observed only among white women, while associations between a PFAS called MPAH and a phenol called BPF and breast cancer were observed only among non-white women. "As communities around the country grapple with PFAS contamination, this adds further evidence that supports policymakers developing action to reduce PFAS exposure," said Tracey J. Woodruff, professor at University of California -San Francisco. Toxic chemical in plastics, dyes driving cancers in women: Study Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Each Parliament and each year have had anecdotes & highlights New Delhi, Sep 18 L et us take a closer look at some highlights and lesser talked about anecdotes from the Parliament. On August 3, 2011, then Law Minister Salman Khurshid, otherwise a known Sonia Gandhi loyalist, was so overwhelmed by the allotment of key portfolio of Law and Justice to him that he chose to compare the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh as an asset to the core value of a 'Maa or mother' in a man's life. Khurshid quoted from the conversation between Shashi Kapoor and Amitabh Bachchan in the film 'Deewar', where the former says "You may have everything but I have mother." Khurshid said "Similarly, BJP may have everything with them but we have Manmohan Singh." He said under Singh's leadership India has been able to brave economic challenges and emerge as a "role model". During the debate on price rise, BJP lawmaker Yashwant Sinha took a potshot at Singh, and said "Jo chunao nahi larte ... woh sukhi hae (Those who do not contest elections (for Lok Sabha) are fortunate)". ********* When Gurudas Dasgupta called Anna Hazare 'a pretender' of a Father of the nation The Lok Sabha had a date with history on December 22 of circa 2011 as it took up in greater details the matters concerning much talked about anti-corruption Lokpal Bill. The draft law was introduced in lower house of Parliament amid strong protests by a sizeable section of members. In the high drama that preceded the introduction of the Lokpal Bill in Lok Sabha, the chief campaigner of the proposed Ombudsman to fight corruption menace, Anna Hazare, was subjected to severe criticism. The most emphatic observation against Anna Hazare came from veteran Parliamentarian and CPI leader Gurudas Dasgupta. The government need not be afraid of "somebody who pretends to be another Father of the Nation," he said without naming anyone. "There is only one Father of the nation," Mr Dasguta waxed eloquently ******* Then came, on Feb 24, 2016, Union HRD Minister Smriti Irani's fiery response to the debate on the death of Dalit scholar Rohith Vemula. This is what she said "Political parties are busy trying to use the death of a child (Rohith Vemula) as a political weapon. The committee which suspended Dalit scholar Rohith Vemula was not constituted by our government, but by the UPA regime. I looked at the case as the death of a child and not as a death of a Dalit. My name is Smriti Irani. I challenge you to identify my caste. I am enraged by the manner in which a child's death (Rohith Vemula) is being used as a political weapon. I am taking it personally Sir. I'll tell you how the entire incident has been used as a political tool." #Some highlights from Rajya Sabha During the Rajya Sabha debate on the Lokpal Bill on August 27, 2011, the Leader of the Opposition Arun Jaitley (now deceased) recalled LM Singhvi's contribution and said, "it is coincidence that his very distinguished son Abhishek Singhvi (of Congress) now has to prepare the final draft of this bill". As the Congress MP grinned, Jaitley said "I am sure he will keep in mind the great heritage, not only his personal but also of this concept and strengthen this Bill." The senior Singhvi had campaigned ceaselessly for a Lokpal bill from 1963 to 1967, but since he was an independent MP, he could not get any legislation through. It was only when he left Parliament and continued with his campaign for Lokpal, the government moved the first bill through the then Home Minister YB Chavan in 1969. Jaitley had said, the first Lokpal Bill was actually passed by the Lok Sabha "but because of the split in the Indian National Congress then, the Lok Sabha was dissolved soon thereafter and the Rajya Sabha could not pass this Bill". An eminent jurist and author, late LM Singhvi was also the longest-serving High Commissioner for India in the UK from 199197. During the turbulent period vis-a-vis the Anna agitation and government's negotiations, Abhishek Singhvi as chairman of the standing committee, has often said "We may collectively surprise all those who are skeptical or cynical" by bringing a strong anti-graft legislation. ************* On August 17, 2011, Jaitley charged "I think it is time for the PM (Dr Manmohan Singh) to stand up and take more decisions. He must go to the root of this issue as to why there's a certain loss of confidence in his government." Urging the PM to see the support for Anna Hazare as a "wake-up call", Jaitley had said in Rajya Sabha "On Independence Day (August 15, 2011), the most defining moment was not the PM unfurling the flag at Red Fort, but the news that Anna was on a fast at Rajghat and thousands of people started arriving there to show solidarity. The defining moment was that news of his arrest spread... and that in thousands of places all over the country, protests took place." ***** There was a role reversal vis-a-vis demonetisation. Manmohan Singh had flayed PM Narendra Modi's demonestisation move. He had said on November 24, 2016 "The Prime Minister has been arguing that this is the way to curb black money, to prevent growth of (counterfeit) currency notes and also to help in control of terrorist finance activities. I do not disagree with these objectives, but what I do want to point out is that in the process of demonetisation, monumental mismanagement has been undertaken, upon which today there are no two opinions in the country as a whole. "Even those who say that 'this measure will do harm or will cause distress in the short run, but is in the interest of the country in the long run', I am reminded of John Keynes, who once said 'In the long run, we are all dead.' And therefore, it is important to take note of the grievances of the people, the ordinary people, who have suffered as a result of this imposition on the country overnight by the Prime Minister, and I say so with all responsibility that the outcome -- we do not know what the final outcome will be -- the Prime Minister has said that we should wait for 50 days. "Well, 50 days is a short period, but for those who are poor and deprived sections of the community, even 50 days' torture can bring about disastrous effects, and that is why, about 60 to 65 people have lost their lives, maybe even more." From the past, it is said Atal Bihari Vajpayee's one of the best speeches has been the obit for Jawaharlal Nehru. "Sir, a dream has been shattered, a song silenced, a flame has vanished in the infinite. It was the dream of a world without fear and without hunger, it was the song of an epic that had the echo of the Gita and the fragrance of the rose. It was the flame of a lamp that burnt all night, fought with every darkness, showed us the way, and one morning attained Nirvana. "Death is certain, the body is ephemeral. The golden body that yesterday we consigned to the funeral pyre of sandalwood was bound to end. But did death have to come so stealthily? When friends were asleep and guards were slack, we were robbed of a priceless gift of life," Vajpayee had said. 'Parkati Mahilayen' - that's how Sharad Yadav opposed Women's Quota Bill The Women's Quota Bill was almost done but for the troika of Sharad Yadav (JD-U), Mulayam Singh Yadav (Samajwadi Party) and Lalu Prasad (RJD). Sharad Yadav even vowed in Lok Sabha to end his life by taking poison to prevent the passage of the Bill without a quota for Dalits and backward castes. The Congress-led UPA government came close to making women's reservation a reality by passing the Bill in the Rajya Sabha in 2010 but the draft law was stalled in the Lok Sabha. Sharad Yadav in 1997 said the Women's Quota Bill favoured only 'par kati mahilayen (women with short-hair). "Kaun mahila hai, kaun nahin hai, keval bal kati aur parkati mahila bhar nahin rahne denge (Who is a woman, who is not, only short-haired women won't be allowed)." (Nirendra Dev is a New Delhi-based journalist. He is also author of the books 'The Talking Guns North East India', and 'Modi to Moditva An Uncensored Truth'. Views expressed are personal) Each Parliament and each year have had anecdotes & highlights Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Washington DC, September 18 N ew research sheds light on the fundamental scientific premise that mitochondrial DNA -- the particular genetic code stored in the organelle that serves as the powerplant for every cell in the body -- is exclusively passed down by the mother. The study, a collaboration among Oregon Health & Science University and other institutions, published in the journal Nature Genetics. Scientists have long recognized the fact that mitochondrial DNA, or mtDNA, comes exclusively from egg cells in humans, meaning only the mother contributes the genetic code carried by thousands of mitochondria necessary for energy production in every cell in the body. Previously, it was believed that paternal mtDNA was eliminated soon after a sperm fuses with an oocyte, or developing egg, during fertilization, possibly through an immune-like search-and-destroy response. However, the study found that while mature sperm do carry a small number of mitochondria, they lack intact mtDNA. "We found that each sperm cell does bring 100 or so mitochondria as organelles when it fertilizes an egg, but there is no mtDNA in them," said co-author Shoukhrat Mitalipov, Ph.D., director of the Center for Embryonic Cell and Gene Therapy at OHSU. Researchers found that sperm cells are not only devoid of intact mtDNA, but they also lacked a protein essential for mtDNA maintenance, known as mitochondrial transcription factor A, or TFAM. Scientists aren't sure why sperm are not allowed to contribute mtDNA, but Mitalipov theorizes that it may relate to the fact that a sperm uses a lot of mitochondrial energy in its biological impetus to fertilize an egg. It would thus accumulate mutations in mtDNA. The developing eggs known as oocytes, by contrast, draw energy primarily from surrounding cells, not from their own mitochondria, so maintain relatively pristine mtDNA. "Eggs pass on really good mtDNA at least partly because they don't use mitochondria as a source of energy," Mitalipov said. The 100 or so organelles in sperm are swamped by hundreds of thousands of mitochondria embedded in each egg cell -- each carrying the 37 genes in mitochondrial DNA. The contribution of only maternal mtDNA is believed to confer an evolutionary advantage by limiting the risk of accumulations of mtDNA mutations that cause disease in offspring. Mitochondria control respiration and energy production within every cell of the body, so mutations in mtDNA can cause a range of potentially fatal disorders affecting organs with high-energy demands, such as the heart, muscle and brain. To help mothers prevent passing on known mtDNA disorders to their children, Mitalipov pioneered a method called mitochondrial replacement therapy to replace mutant mtDNA through in vitro fertilization using healthy mtDNA from donor eggs. Congress has prevented the Food and Drug Administration from overseeing clinical trials using the procedure in the U.S., so clinical trials are instead being conducted overseas, including clinical trials in the United Kingdom to prevent disease and in Greece to treat infertility. Researchers write that the new discovery has important implications for human fertility and germ cell therapy. "Understanding the role of TFAM during sperm maturation and its function during fertilization may hold keys to our ability to treat certain infertility disorders, and increase the efficiency of assisted reproductive technologies," said corresponding author Dmitry Temiakov, Ph.D., a molecular biologist with Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. Study reveals mature sperm lack intact mitochondrial DNA Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! San Francisco, Sep 18 M icrosoft on Monday admitted that backups of two former employees' workstation profiles and internal Microsoft Teams messages of these two employees with their colleagues were exposed accidentally, adding that no customer data was exposed. The admission came as cloud security startup Wiz discovered a GitHub repository belonging to Microsoft's AI research division as part of its work into the accidental exposure of cloud-hosted data. After identifying the exposure, Wiz reported the issue to the Microsoft Security Response Center (MSRC). The tech giant investigated and remediated the incident involving a Microsoft employee who shared a URL for a blob store in a public GitHub repository while contributing to open-source AI learning models. "This URL included an overly-permissive Shared Access Signature (SAS) token for an internal storage account. Security researchers at Wiz were then able to use this token to access information in the storage account," said Microsoft. "No customer data was exposed, and no other internal services were put at risk because of this issue," the tech giant said in a blog post. SAS tokens provide a mechanism to restrict access and allow certain clients to connect to specified Azure Storage resources. In this case, a researcher at Microsoft inadvertently included this SAS token in a blob store URL while contributing to open-source AI learning models and provided the URL in a public GitHub repository. "There was no security issue or vulnerability within Azure Storage or the SAS token feature. Like other secrets, SAS tokens should be created and managed properly. Additionally, we are making ongoing improvements to further harden the SAS token feature and continue to evaluate the service to bolster our secure-by-default posture," Microsoft noted. The information that was exposed consisted of information unique to two former Microsoft employees and these former employees' workstations. "Customers do not need to take any additional action to remain secure," said the company. na/ Microsoft fixes internal data exposure, says no customer data breach Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Musk's Tesla in talks with Saudi Arabia to build EV factory: Report San Francisco, Sep 18 B illionaire Elon Musk, who is still toying with the idea to establish a Tesla factory in India, is in early talks with South Arabia to build a new EV manufacturing facility there, a report claimed on Monday. The Tesla CEO, however, denied any such talks. According to the Wall Street Journal, citing sources, Saudi Arabia is in talks with Tesla about setting up a manufacturing facility in the country. This is part of an ambitious push by the oil-rich nation "to secure metals needed for electric vehicles and help diversify its economy away from oil". However, any deal would need to overcome hurdles, including Musk's contentious relationship with the Saudis, the report added. Musk reached to the report in a post, saying "yet another utterly false article from WSJ". They had declined to take Tesla private back in 2018 and the country has a majority stake in rival EV maker Lucid Motors. According to the report, much of the talks seem to focus on Saudi Arabia's desire for Tesla's help securing more cobalt from Africa.. "Kingdom is trying to boost foreign investment but has contentious history with Elon Musk," the report mentioned. Tesla, Musk or Saudi Arabia did not comment on the report. In 2018, after his controversial tweet about taking Tesla "private," Musk had said that he met with Saudi Arabia sovereign fund representatives to discuss the electric carmaker's possible exit from the stock market. Musk said in a statement posted on the Tesla website that the Saudi sovereign fund had first contacted him "at the beginning of 2017 to express (their) interest because of the important need to diversify away from oil". The Saudi sovereign fund then owned about 5 per cent of the outstanding Tesla shares. The report came as Musk is finally building a Tesla supply system via India. The electric vehicle major is planning to source automobile parts worth up to $1.9 billion this year from India, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said last week. The imports will be around double as compared to auto parts worth $1 billion imported by Tesla from India last year, Goyal said while addressing the annual convention of Automotive Component Manufacturers Association (ACMA). The minister said that last year, Tesla had already bought $1 billion worth of components from India and this year their target is $1.7-$1.9 billion. Goyal's statement came after reports said that the Musk-led company has held talks with the government, and is exploring the possibility of bringing its auto parts and electronics chain to the country. Musk's Tesla in talks with Saudi Arabia to build EV factory: Report Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! In the battles in the Bakhmut direction, the Ukrainian defense forces defeated the 72nd separate motorized rifle brigade, the 31st and 83rd separate air assault brigades of the Russian Armed Forces one of the most trained and professional units of the Russian army, Commander of the Ukrainian Ground Forces, Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrsky has said. "The general situation in the eastern direction remains difficult. The enemy does not abandon its intentions to resume offensive operations in the Kupiansk and Lyman directions, for which it is actively preparing," the Military Media Center quoted him as saying. According to Syrsky, fierce fighting in the vicinity of Bakhmut continues. "After the loss of the settlements of Andriyivka and Klischiyivka last week, the enemy is conducting numerous counterattacks from different directions, unsuccessfully trying to regain lost positions. After all, these small, at first glance, settlements were important elements of the enemy's defensive line, which stretched from Bakhmut to Horlivka," he said. Syrsky also said that "as a result of the successful actions of our troops, the enemy's defense line was broken, although the enemy forces were trying to hold it by throwing all available reserves into battle. According to him, in the battles in the Bakhmut direction, some of the most trained and best units of the enemy the 72nd separate motorized rifle brigade, the 31st and 83rd separate air assault brigades were defeated and "completely lost their combat capability." "Of course, we continue to move forward. This is just another step towards the complete liberation of our territories. To organize the implementation of our tasks, I held a working meeting with the commanders of the brigades who are now in the area," Syrsky said. According to him, during this meeting, conclusions on the assessment of the situation were heard, a number of problematic issues were identified, most of which were resolved on the spot, and tasks for further actions were clarified. "I am confident that our plans to liberate the state from the occupiers will certainly be realized. The enemy will be defeated and the blue and yellow flags will again fly on our borders," Syrsky said. Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of newspapers, radio and TV stations statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, along with major contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation and Southern Illinois Editorial Association. Download Now The News-Gazette mobile app brings you the latest local breaking news, updates, and more. Read the News-Gazette on your mobile device just as it appears in print. History Causes and symptoms Epidemiology Case reports Diagnosis and treatment References Further reading Yunis-Varon Syndrome (YVS) is a rare genetic disorder with characteristic skeletal and ectodermal abnormalities. It is also known as cleidocranial dysplasia. Yunis-Varon syndrome is a rare genetic disorder with characteristic skeletal and ectodermal abnormalities. Image Credit: Billion Photos/Shutterstock.com The disorder comprises structural brain abnormalities, facial dysmorphisms, sparse and pale hair and follows the autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance. Neurons, muscles, and cartilage all have enlarged vacuoles. Symptoms and signs are usually present from birth. Affected infants may be born small, have slowed growth and are difficult to feed. Mutations in the FIG4 gene cause Yunis-Varon syndrome. History Cleidocranial dysplasia (absent clavicles, macrocrania, diastasis of sutures), absent thumbs and distal phalanges of fingers, micrognathia, hypoplasia of the proximal phalanx were described by Yunis and Varon (1980) in 5 children of 3 families. Other observed symptoms were the absence of the distal phalanx of the big toes, pelvic dysplasia, bilateral hip dislocation, and retracted and poorly delineated lips In two of the families, the parents were consanguineous. Yunis-Varon syndrome was coined by Hughes and Partington (1983). Causes and symptoms YVS is reported to be caused by mutations in the FIG4 gene. FIG4 protein (also known as SAC3), coded by the FIG4 gene, is a 50-phosphoinositide phosphatase that is required for endosome and lysosome activity. On early endosomal membranes, FIG4 forms a functional complex with Vac14 and Fab1. This complex mediates the conversion of endosomal phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate (PI3P) to phosphatidylinositol 3,5-biphosphate (PI(3,5)P2), which is required for protein sorting, trafficking late endosomes to the lysosomal degradation compartment, and regulating other endolysosomes/lysosomal functions such as ion channel activation and endolyso FIG4 deficiency results in a decrease in PI(3,5)P2, which causes endosome/endolysosome/lysosome dysfunction. FIG4 is also known to be associated with other conditions like Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease 4J, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis 11, and bilateral Temporooccipital Polymicrogyria. Yunis-Varon syndrome is a multisystem disorder comprising a wide range of orthopedic, cardiovascular, and endocrine abnormalities. A large proportion of patients experience aplasia of the distal phalanx of the hallux and aplasia of the distal phalanges of the hand along with a short proximal phalanx of the hallux. Other frequent symptoms include agenesis of the corpus callosum, anteverted nares, arrhinencephaly, bilateral microphthalmos, cardiomegaly, cardiomyopathy, and abnormalities of the occipital, parietal, and pelvis bone. Anomalies of the face comprise dolichocephaly, high, narrow palate, hypertelorism, high forehead, short chin, proptosis, sparse eyebrows, and eyelashes. Affected neonates may also experience syndactyly, thin vermilion border, short stature, reduced/lack of hair on the scalp, rocker-bottom feet, and sclerocornea. Neuronal loss in the central nervous system, pachygyria, and postnatal growth retardation are also common observations. Supernumerary, retained, or misplaced teeth, insufficient cementum, or no secondary eruption are possible features related to the dental profile. Atrial septal defect, cerebellar hypoplasia, glossoptosis, cryptorchidism, clitoral hypertrophy, hearing impairment, polyhydramnios, hydrocephalus, renal artery stenosis, and flared metaphysis are present in less than 30% of the patients. Epidemiology YVS is a rare disease with limited (less than 30) cases reported from across the world. The incidence of the syndrome and its prevalence in different ethnicities is yet to be investigated. Case reports Siddique et al., in 2019 described a newborn with classic clinical and radiologic symptoms of Yunis-Varon syndrome, as well as a complete cleft lip and palate, who was born to consanguineously married normal parents. The newborn girl was born at 39 weeks of gestation in a tertiary care hospital in Lahore via lower segment Caesarean section, with Apgar scores of five and seven at one and five minutes, respectively. Absent clavicles bilaterally with winging of scapulae, syndactyly, hypoplastic nails, hypoplasia of distal phalanges of fingers, agenesis of thumbs and big toes, and bilateral developmental dysplasia of the hip joint were among the skeletal anomalies. Biventricular hypertrophy was found on an echocardiogram, along with strong left ventricular function and a 60% ejection fraction. The neonate was given oxygen via nasal prongs and a nasogastric tube was placed in his stomach, but he died on his ninth day of life due to respiratory difficulties. Two earlier babies in the family had comparable traits but died in infancy. This is the first case of Yunis-Varon syndrome to be documented in Pakistan. Umair et al., in 2021 described a newborn with typical YVS clinical manifestations who was born to a consanguineous couple. They discovered a unique homozygous missense variant (c.968A>G; p.Gln323Arg) in the FIG4 gene using whole-exome sequencing. This research broadens the molecular and genomic scope of FIG4-related alterations. This is the first time YVS has been documented in the Saudi population. Diagnosis and treatment After a thorough clinical evaluation and identification of typical features, Yunis-Varon syndrome can be diagnosed or confirmed after birth. FIG4 mutation testing can potentially be used to confirm a diagnosis. Antenatal screening using ultrasonography can detect the syndrome in infants with skeletal or cardiac abnormalities. The image of the developing fetus is created using reflected sound waves in fetal ultrasonography. Treatment is determined by the signs and symptoms that each individual exhibits as there is no cure for the condition. Bone and skeletal abnormalities can be diagnosed and treated by orthopedic specialists. Syndactyly can be treated with surgery to separate the digits. This can be done for either utilitarian or cosmetic purposes. Standard techniques can successfully handle the varied indications of cardiovascular disease. When breathing problems are serious and life-threatening, additional measures, such as the use of a ventilator, may be required. In Yunis-Varon syndrome, early intervention is critical. Special services that may be beneficial to children who have been affected are necessary. Affected individuals and their families may also benefit from sessions of genetic counseling. Although the majority of patients with YunisVaron syndrome are expected to have a bad prognosis, given the wide range of phenotypic expression, survival into adulthood is feasible. References Yunis-Varon syndrome. [Online] NIH-GARD. Available at: https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/331/yunis-varon-syndrome YUNIS-VARON SYNDROME; YVS. [Online] OMIM. Available at: https://www.omim.org/entry/216340 Yunis Varon Syndrome. [Online] National Organization for Rare Disorders. Available at: https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/yunis-varon-syndrome/ FIG4 PHOSPHOINOSITIDE 5-PHOSPHATASE; FIG4. [Online] OMIM. Available at: https://www.omim.org/entry/609390#description Nakajima J, Okamoto N, Shiraishi J, et al. (2013). Novel FIG4 mutations in Yunis-Varon syndrome. Journal of Human Genetics, 58(12), 822824. doi:10.1038/jhg.2013.104 Campeau PM, Lenk GM, Lu J, et al. (2013). Yunis-Varon syndrome is caused by mutations in FIG4, encoding a phosphoinositide phosphatase. American Journal of Human Genetics, 92(5), 781791. doi:10.1016/j.ajhg.2013.03.020 Varghese P, Collins N, Warner G, et al. (2014). Yunis-Varon syndrome: further delineation of cardiovascular and endocrine outcome. American Journal of Medical Genetics. Part A, 164A(5), 12131217. doi:10.1002/ajmg.a.35741 Lines MA, Ito, Y, Kernohan K, et al. (2017). Yunis-Varon syndrome caused by biallelic VAC14 mutations. European Journal of Human Genetics: EJHG, 25(9), 10491054. doi:10.1038/ejhg.2017.99 Siddique AW, Ahmed Z, Haider A, et al. (2019). Yunis-Varon Syndrome. Journal of Ayub Medical College, Abbottabad: JAMC, 31(2), 290292. Yunis-Varon syndrome. Nursing Children and Young People (2014+); London Vol. 31, Iss. 3, (May 2019): 19-19. doi:10.7748/ncyp.31.3.19.s18. Available at: https://www.proquest.com/openview/0c95e7058199f043e2a288570e064406/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=2042233 Umair M, Alkharfy TM, Sajjad S, et al. (2021). FIG4-Associated Yunis-Varon Syndrome: Identification of a Novel Missense Variant. Molecular Syndromology, 12(6), 386392. doi:10.1159/000516971 Further Reading In a recent study published in the journal Scientific Reports, researchers compared human and artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot creativity using the alternate uses task (AUT) to understand the current boundaries and potential of machine-generated creativity. Study: Best humans still outperform artificial intelligence in a creative divergent thinking task. Image Credit: girafchik / Shutterstock Background Generative AI tools, such as Chat Generative Pre-Trained Transformer (ChatGPT) and MidJourney, have stirred debates regarding their impact on jobs, education, and legal protections for AI-generated content. Historically, creativity was seen as uniquely human and traditionally linked to originality and usefulness, but AI's emerging capabilities are now challenging and redefining this belief. However, there is a pressing need for further research to profoundly comprehend the underlying mechanisms of human and AI creativity and their implications for society, employment, ethics, and the shifting definition of human identity in the AI era. About the study In the present study, AUT data from humans was sourced from a previous research project, and using the online platform Prolific, native English speakers were engaged. Out of the 310 participants who began the study, 279 completed it. After evaluating their attentiveness through visual tasks, 256 were deemed diligent and included in the analysis, boasting an average age of 30.4. Most participants were full-time employees or students, hailed primarily from the United States of America (USA), the United Kingdom (UK), Canada, and Ireland. In 2023, three AI chatbots, ChatGPT3.5 (later referred to as ChatGPT3), ChatGPT4, and Copy.Ai, were tested on specific dates, undergoing examination 11 times using four different object prompts across separate sessions. This method ensured a sizable sample to discern differences, especially when compared against the extensive human data. For the AUT procedure, participants were engaged with four objects: rope, box, pencil, and candle, and were advised to prioritize the originality of their answers rather than sheer volume. While humans were tested once per session, AIs underwent 11 distinct sessions with instructions slightly modified to fit their design. The primary concern was keeping the AI responses comparable to human answers, especially in length. Before analysis, the responses underwent a spell-check, and any ambiguous short answers were discarded. The essence of divergent thinking was gaged using the semantic distance between an object and its AUT response, utilizing the SemDis platform. Any potential bias in responses, particularly from AIs using jargon like "Do It Yourself" (DIY), was addressed for consistency. The originality of answers was evaluated by six human raters who, unaware of the AI-generated responses, rated each answer's originality on a scale of 1 to 5. The rating methodology had clear guidelines to ensure objectivity, and their collective ratings demonstrated high inter-rater reliability. Lastly, the data underwent rigorous statistical analyses with the aim of deriving meaningful conclusions from the amassed data. Various models were employed to evaluate the scores, taking into account fixed effects such as group and object and potential covariates. Study results The present study analyzed the creative divergent thinking in humans and AI chatbots, focusing on their responses to different objects, and observed a moderate correlation between the semantic distance and humans' subjective ratings. This suggested that while both scoring methods measured similar qualities, they were not identical in nature. Therefore, it was deemed appropriate to evaluate the data using both semantic distance and subjective ratings. Using linear mixed-effect models for a broad comparison between humans and AI, a consistent pattern emerged: AI chatbots not only generally outperformed humans but also had higher mean and max scores in terms of semantic distance. When fluency was considered as a covariate, it was seen to decrease the mean scores but increase the max scores. This trend was also reflected in the human subjective ratings of creativity, where AI again scored higher in both mean and max scores. An interesting observation was that while some human participants responded with typical or even illogical uses of the objects, AI chatbots consistently provided atypical and logical uses, never scoring below a certain threshold. The study delved deeper into comparing the responses of humans and individual AI chatbots to specific objects, namely a rope, box, pencil, and candle. The analyses showcased that ChatGPT3 and ChatGPT4, two of the AI models, outperformed humans in terms of mean semantic distance scores. However, when considering max scores, there was no statistically significant difference between human participants and the AI chatbots. It was also observed that responses to the rope were typically rated lower in terms of semantic distance than the other objects. The human subjective ratings assessing creativity revealed that ChatGPT4 consistently received higher ratings than both humans and the other chatbots, showcasing its clear edge. However, this advantage was not observed when the chatbots were tasked with the object "pencil." An interesting pattern emerged with the candle, as responses related to it generally received lower ratings compared to other objects. A standout observation was that two AI sessions, one from ChatGPT3 and the other from ChatGPT4, recorded max scores higher than any human for the object "box." The data underlined the impressive performance of AI chatbots, particularly ChatGPT4, in creative divergent thinking tasks compared to humans. However, it is worth noting that AI did not uniformly outpace humans across all metrics or objects, underscoring the complexities of creativity and the areas where humans still hold an advantage. A recent study published in the journal Nutrients examined the role of teachers in addressing childhood obesity. Childhood obesity is an ongoing epidemic in the United States (US). Although the childhood obesity rate is slowly increasing, it is rapidly growing in underserved areas. To address this, resources from local, state, and federal health agencies have focused on various solutions, focusing on schools as the epicenter. The inclusion of teachers in identifying and integrating solutions into program delivery can be beneficial to addressing obesity in children. However, prioritizing the health of these professionals is challenging, given the demands of classrooms and schools. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic emphasized the pressing need to attend to teachers' well-being and health. A 2022 report from the RAND Corporation revealed that many teachers had job-related stress and that wellness programming provided by employers was associated with reduced stress. The well-being of teachers can benefit students. Research suggests that a solid student-teacher relationship helps increase engagement and attendance, improve student well-being, decrease behavior concerns, and lead to positive outcomes. Study: The Role of Teachers in Addressing Childhood Obesity: A School-Based Approach. Image Credit: Ground Picture / Shutterstock About the study The present study by researchers at the American University, Washington, evaluated teachers' role in addressing childhood obesity. This five-year intervention project was initiated in 2017 and aimed to engage educators in teaching nutrition literacy skills for preventing obesity among students in elementary schools in Washington, DC. Teachers from two comparison and two intervention schools provided demographic data and completed the Teacher Health Surveys at baseline and after the intervention. Responses were recorded on the Likert scale. An aggregate health score was calculated from the sum of variables (chronic condition, self-efficacy, health education beliefs, and overall health). The primary objective was to assess the effects of a professional development program in providing teachers with the knowledge and skills to integrate nutrition into their lessons. Each session began with a well-being component, such as a physical activity break, mindfulness, or healthy eating, and subsequently, a sample lesson from "Serving up MyPlate: A Yummy Curriculum" was presented. Teachers in the intervention schools had to implement at least three nutrition lessons throughout the year. The Student Nutrition Literacy Survey was administered at baseline and post-intervention to assess student knowledge about nutrition, intent, and beliefs. Findings Overall, 92 teachers from the intervention and comparison schools completed the THS at baseline and after the intervention. Baseline demographic characteristics of teachers were similar between schools. Teachers were aged, on average, 36 years; 84.8% were females, and 68.5% were Black. The average aggregate health scores at baseline were not different by age, gender, teaching time, or grade taught. Fifty-five intervention school teachers attended the professional development program and implemented 71 nutrition lessons in the classroom. Poisson regression analysis showed that job stress, professional development program attendance, and self-efficacy predicted the implementation of nutrition lessons. Each additional increase in self-efficacy scores and each additional session attended were associated with a 25% and 48% higher likelihood of integrating nutrition lessons into the classroom curriculum, respectively. Self-efficacy and stress were inversely associated, i.e., teachers with high stress scored poorly on self-efficacy. The team observed an association between health scores, nutrition lesson implementation, and aggregate health scores. There was an inverse correlation between lesson implementation and stress scores. Teachers attending sessions had lower stress scores than those who did not. The aggregate health score of teachers implementing three or more nutrition lessons was higher than those who did not. Students at intervention and comparison schools had similar baseline demographics, and participation was well-balanced by age, gender, and grade level. Moreover, the baseline knowledge scores were not significantly different between students in comparison and intervention schools. However, scores significantly increased among intervention school students who received (nutrition) lessons from teachers who participated in sessions. Students receiving three or more nutrition lessons had about 10% higher scores than those receiving two or fewer lessons. Conclusions The findings demonstrated that a short-term professional development program for teachers to support their health and implement nutrition education was feasible and potentially sustainable. Notably, the improvements in knowledge about healthful eating may not necessarily reflect changes in behavior. Improving student health should start with solutions to support teacher health, and workplace professional development should be prioritized. Empowering teachers with knowledge, resources, and skills to manage their health will enable them to be the medium and message in the classroom and the agents of change. Including teachers as collaborators in preventing childhood obesity will operationalize efforts to achieve health equity. Overall, the findings corroborate the feasibility of a professional development program as a potential strategy to support teacher well-being and obesity prevention efforts. In a recent article published in the journal Scientific Reports, researchers characterize five strains of gammacoronaviruses (gCoV) and deltacoronaviruses (dCoV) that were detected in black-headed gulls (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) and common gulls (Larus canus) in Poland. Study: Gulls as a host for both gamma and deltacoronaviruses. Image Credit: Nataliya Dorokhina / Shutterstock.com Background The Orthocoronavirinae subfamily consists of Alpha-, Beta-, Gamma-, and Deltacoronavirus genera, of which gCoVs and dCoVs infect wild birds. The gCoVs and dCoVs have three subgenera each and five and seven species, respectively. CoVs are positive-sense single-stranded ribonucleic acid (ssRNA) viruses that mutate at a maximum possible rate due to the low fidelity of their RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) machinery. Consequently, CoVs potentially generate several viral variants during a short infection cycle that could quickly switch hosts. About the study Researchers obtained whole genomic sequences (WGS) of five CoV samples. Four of the selected dCoV strains were detected in three black-headed and one common gull, whereas one gCoV strain was from a common gull. Twenty-seven samples with the highest viral load, as determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, were subjected to next-generation sequencing (NGS). Subsequently, the researchers de novo assembled raw reads to contigs. The BLAST algorithm was used to compare these sequences with viral genome sequences from the GenBank database. Samples with the highest homology were selected for further analysis. More specifically, using the MAFFT method, all nucleotide sequences were aligned. All similarities in nucleotide and amino acid sequences were determined and expressed in percentages. These alignments were subsequently incorporated into the IQ-TREE software to estimate the best evolutionary model. Any recombination events within these CoV genomes, if any, were also identified. Study findings The genus Charadriiformes of the Laridae species was the main reservoir of gCoVs and dCoVs, with genome lengths of over 26,000 and about 23,000 nucleotides (nt), respectively. All four Chinese black-headed gulls (BHG)dCoVs genomes identified in this study exhibited high similarity with the genomes of three bird species from the United Arab Emirates and Chinese BHGs. This observation suggests their close evolutionary relationship and interspecies transmission potential. However, phylogenetic analysis of their WGSs revealed bifurcation within a common branch. Numerous amino acid changes were also identified within their spike (S) protein, thus indicating that these dCoVs evolved within a single gull. Notably, the Polish dCoVs did not comprise any of the mutations described as host-specific receptors for gulls. The Polish BHGdCoV/Poland/P350/2017 was identified in December 2017, 35-40 km away from where the most recent CgdCoV/Poland/P005/2019 was identified in January 2019. Comparatively, gulls sampled in Yunnan Province of China were sampled in January-March 2021 from a single location. Nearly identical dCoVs from the Middle Eastern birds were sampled over a period of two years. Overall, the dCoVs identified in gulls in this study were highly diverse on a genomic scale, thus raising the possibility of new serotype variants that might emerge with minimal mutations in the S protein. The phylogenetic analysis of the structural and non-structural genes of CGgCoV/Poland/P014/2019 revealed that it closely resembled duck coronavirus 2714 (DuCoV2714), which was detected in China in 2014. However, these two viruses shared a low degree of S protein homology, which formed a separate phylogenetic branch with no relation to any gCoV identified to date. Some previous studies have identified similar gCoVs in wild birds in Australia and Canada. The subfamily of gulls and terns can be found in many regions throughout the world, thus indicating that these birds are exceptionally ecologically diverse. Whereas some of these birds exclusively inhabit the marine environment, some live in freshwater, and others live in both. Some of these birds frequently encounter contact with humans and domesticated animals. Most of these birds live in colonies with high densities, thus facilitating direct viral transmission and disease spread. Conclusions The dCoV and gCoV WGS described in this study are the first to be identified from Polish gulls. Thus, the study findings provide novel insights into the evolution and diversity of CoVs circulating in the Laridae family. The genetic characteristics of these viruses demonstrate how these two distinct CoV genera could co-infect one organism and create conditions conducive for recombination events to occur, which, in turn, could give rise to novel CoV variants. In fact, researchers have recently reported concurrent co-infection of Pacific black ducks with gCoVs and dCoVs in Australia. Since porcine dCoVs, which likely evolved from avian dCoVs, could infect humans, it remains crucial to continuously study animal reservoirs of CoVs and broaden the knowledge of their increasing diversity and zoonosis potential. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy notes the importance of adopting all Ukrainian children left without parental care. As a state, we must reach a point when all children in our country, all those who have been left without parental care, have their own family - their own home, their own family. Ukraine certainly must not be associated with orphanages. I thank everyone who works for this! Zelenskyy said in his address on the occasion of the Adoption Day, published on the Telegram on Sunday. This is probably one of the most honorable missions in life - to help a child avoid an orphan's fate. I thank everyone who helps children in this way, everyone who spreads the warmth of their families so that there are fewer lonely destinies in this world! the head of state said. As reported, in 2008, the third President of Ukraine Viktor Yuschenko by his decree established the Adoption Day on September 30, when, according to the Julian calendar, the church holiday of Faith, Hope, Love and their mother Sofia is celebrated. The purpose of the holiday is to support the development of adoption and family forms of upbringing of orphans and children deprived of parental care, while the provision and maintenance of these children is entrusted to the state. In 2023, in connection with the decision of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine and the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church to switch to the New Julian church calendar, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a decree on changing the dates when a number of public holidays are celebrated, timed to the church, including Adoption Day. According to the decree, it will now be celebrated annually on September 17. In a recent study posted to the medRxiv* preprint server, researchers performed a comprehensive search for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms published between 2018 and 2023 on PubMed and the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP). Specifically, the current scoping review evaluated study endpoints, intervention features, and RCT outcomes to inform stakeholders about the clinical relevance of AI, which, in turn, might help improve care management and medical decision-making while identifying areas that require further work in this rapidly evolving research domain. Study: Randomized Controlled Trials Evaluating AI in Clinical Practice: A Scoping Evaluation. Image Credit: metamorworks/Shutterstock.com *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. Background The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved ~300 AI-enabled medical devices after several research studies reported these models performed superior to clinicians; however, only a few AI-enabled medical devices have undergone evaluation using prospective RCTs. For instance, a widely used AI model, the sepsis model, was found to perform worse than was reported by its developer, resulting in multiple incorrect alerts. When deployed prospectively, AI-based devices perform worse, and adopting AI in clinical practice could further diminish its potential benefits. About the study In the present study, researchers used keywords related to artificial intelligence, clinician, and clinical trial, to name a few, and identified RCTs published in English on PubMed and the ICTRP between January 1, 2018, and August 18, 2023, that met the following criteria: i) used a non-linear computational model based on AI as an intervention; ii) integrated AI-based intervention into clinical practice, such that it impacted patient health; and iii) published as a full-text peer-reviewed article. Two independent investigators used the Covidence Review software for the initial screening, followed by a full-text screening, while a third reviewer resolved discrepancies (if any) through discussion. The team retrieved information regarding the study site, clinical task, results, and the type of AI used from all eligible RCTs. Additionally, they categorized studies by their primary endpoints, e.g., care management, medical specialty, and AI-used data modality. Finally, they presented simple descriptive statistics to provide an overview of all the eligible trials. The current study adhered to preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Results A total of 84 RCTs constituted this study's analytical dataset, which revealed several notable trends with implications for the development of AI in real-world clinical settings. Of these 84 studies, 71 and 13 were sourced through primary and reference screening, respectively. Most RCTs were gastroenterology-related (35/84), followed by radiology, surgery, and cardiology, with 13, five, and five RCTs, respectively. Four research groups from Wuhan University, Wision AI, Medtronic, and Fujifilm conducted most gastroenterology-related RCTs (24/35), which were notable for their uniformity and testing of video-based machine learning (ML) algorithms with help from clinicians. The United States (US) led the way, followed by China, suggesting most RCTs were single-site studies. Indeed, there is a need for multi-center international trials to ensure tests of AI systems are valid across diverse populations and healthcare systems. China predominantly conducted gastroenterology-related RCTs (19/24), while RCTs conducted in the US covered multiple medical specialties. Multi-center RCTs mainly involved European nations, while single-site RCTs evaluating an average of 359 patients were predominant (52/84) in the final study set. Compared to success rates observed in historical reviews of RCTs for AI in healthcare, most RCTs evaluating AI-based medical devices in clinical practice fetched more positive outcomes for all primary endpoints evaluated (69/84). Such a high success rate lends credibility to clinical AI; however, it is also possible that the nascency of the field and publication bias might have tempered these observations. Furthermore, most RCTs evaluating interventions on diagnostic accuracy offering convincing prospective evidence of the performance of clinical AI might not be a precise representation of improved patient outcomes. Thus, RCTs assessing AI algorithms in healthcare should focus on incorporating clinically meaningful endpoints, e.g., patient symptoms, survival, and treatment needs. Conclusions Overall, the existing RCTs on AI in clinical practice demonstrated an increasing interest in AI applications across wide-ranging medical specialties and locations. However, given AI's limitations in the healthcare domain, further research focused on multi-center RCTs incorporating diverse clinically meaningful endpoints is needed. *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. In a recent study published in Scientific Reports, researchers determined the relationship between exposure to news on the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic through social media, feelings of fear and anxiety, and changes in behavior in the adult Iranian population. Background During the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) outbreak, individuals have been increasingly using social media to share news and information. This increased use may be due to quarantine and physical distancing measures, as well as the need for communication between families and friends. The pandemic has also led to the spread of misleading rumors and disinformation, posing risks to people's health. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns against using fake information and avoiding an "infodemic," emphasizing the importance of fact-checking before sharing information to prevent negative consequences. About the study In the present cross-sectional study, researchers investigated the behavioral and psychological implications of COVID-19-related news exposure through social platforms among Iranian adults. During COVID-19 in April of 2020, a telephone survey was conducted including adults of Iranian origin who could speak Persian, accessed one or more social media platforms, and were exposed to SARS-CoV-2 outbreak news through social platforms. Eligible people were chosen at random from a list of postal codes using their smartphones (random digit dialing). A questionnaire, designed by the researchers, was used to collect demographic information (age, gender, educational attainment, employment, marital status, and socioeconomic position) as well as questions about exposure to COVID-19 news and behavioral and psychological reactions to COVID-19. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine odds ratios (ORs) for the association between fear, anxiety, behavioral changes, and independent socioeconomic characteristics, including COVID-19 news exposure. Seven experts, including two journalists, three health psychologists, and two epidemiologists, validated the questionnaire. Results and discussion In total, 1,563 individuals (mean age: 39 years) responded to the survey. Among the participants, 50% had intermediate socioeconomic status, 60% had attained high school-level education, and 35% had attended colleges or universities. Nearly 55% of respondents experienced moderate-high levels of anxiety and 54% experienced fear of contracting SARS-CoV-2. Among the participants, 88% documented some degree of changed behavior. Among the variables, exposure to news on the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak through social media platforms influenced psychological health, increasing anxiety, fear, as well as behavior, with OR values of 2.20, 1.95, and 2.00, respectively, to the greatest extent. Individuals reported that they took more preventive measures (face mask-wearing, hand washing, and social distancing) after being exposed to pandemic news through social platforms. SARS-CoV-2 infection fear was linked to sociodemographic variables such as female sex, employment, and intermediate economic status. Increased exposure to news on COVID-19 through social media was linked to greater anxiety. This anxiety appeared to stem from the uncertainty surrounding the nature of the pandemic and the lack of effective preventive measures. The study was conducted at the beginning of the pandemic when social media was filled with negative news and misinformation. Users were often unaware of the difference between true and fake news, and governments often had limited strategies to manage the situation. Economic sanctions and vaccine supply limitations also contributed to increased fear among those actively following news on COVID-19 via social platforms. However, exposure to COVID-19 news also induced positive changes in behavior. Official departments' efforts to increase public awareness of prevention strategies, such as providing updated information on websites and social media, may have contributed to individuals adopting preventive behaviors. Exposure to social media increases users' awareness about ways to protect themselves against COVID-19, and risk perception is related to adopting preventive behaviors such as social distancing and mask use. Conclusions Based on the study findings, the media has an important role in crisis response through educating the public, influencing good behavioral changes, and influencing mental health. While exposure to pandemic news through social media caused dread and anxiety, it also had a favorable effect on individuals' health behaviors toward preventative measures. Improving people's media literacy so they can recognize trustworthy information and distribute trustworthy content on social media appears to be vital. Governments could also deal with the 'infodemic' by providing timely, up-to-date, and credible information to prevent disinformation from spreading. They are also responsible for introducing respectable sources of trustworthy information. Shares of Larsen & Toubro Ltd (L&T) were trading higher in Mondays trade as the share buyback opens today. The eligible shareholders can participate by tendering equity shares during normal trading hours of the secondary market of BSE and NSE. The share buyback issue will conclude on Monday, September 25. Against a book size of up to 3,12,50,000 shares, L&T received bids for 71 shares so far. BSE is the designated stock exchange for the buyback. L&T had recently increased the buyback price to Rs 32,00 from Rs 3,000 earlier, keeping total buyback value unchanged at Rs 10,000 crore. Analysts noted that one of the key objectives of the companys strategic plan, Lakshya 26, is to enhance the return on equity (ROE). Return on equity capital to shareholders in the form of share buyback is a step in that direction, Prabhudas Lilladher said in a recent note. L&T lifted its buyback price 6.7 per cent to Rs3,200/share reducing the shares to buyback to 31.25 million (2.22 per cen). We expect the buyback to add 125 basis points to ROE versus 12 per cent in FY23. L&T articulated its path to 18 per cent ROE by FY26 being equally split between core E&C improvement, loss reduction in PPP assets, such as Hyd. Metro (read Play on megatrends) and capital return (read Capital return to drive rerating), CLSA said on September 13. The engineering and construction major said the acquisition window will be available on both BSE and NSE to facilitate the placing of sell orders by the eligible shareholders, who wish to tender shares in the buyback. Eligible Shareholders may place orders in the acquisition window-only through their respective stock broker(s) (along with the complete set of documents for verification procedures) during normal trading hours of the secondary market by giving the details of equity shares they intend to tender under the buyback, L&T said. Should you tender your shares? Market expert Ambareesh Baliga believes that retail shareholders should tender their shares in the buyback. The buyback represents L&Ts commitment to returning capital to its investors. With robust cash flow over the years, this move will also help in reducing the companys debt, enhancing its financial flexibility. In essence, the L&T buyback is a strategic step benefiting both the company and its shareholders, highlighting managements confidence in long-term growth, Sonam Srivastava of Wright Research PMS said. Khadija Mantri, Associate VP Research, Sharekhan by BNP Paribas, says, We recommend investors tender their shares in the L&T buyback, as the buyback price of Rs. 3,200 per share is at a premium of nearly 910 per cent from its current market price. Although the acceptance ratio and allotment are likely to be low as the company would be buying back only 2.2 per cent of the total equity, which is 3.125 crore shares, this is the first-ever buyback by the engineering conglomerate, and therefore investor interest is likely to be high for the same. Tata Steel share price touched a new 52-week high on Monday after the company signed a joint agreement with the UK government to invest 1.25 billion at the companys facility in Port Talbot, Wales. Tata Steels stock price touched intraday high of Rs 134.85 and low of Rs 131.85. Tata Steel share price opened at Rs 134.75 apiece on BSE. The Tata group company and the UK government announced a joint agreement to invest 1.25 billion in electric arc furnace steelmaking at the Port Talbot site. This includes a grant from the UK Government of up to 500 million. The Port Talbot project will reduce direct emissions by 50 million tonnes over a 10-year period. Further, the project would also involve Tata Steels balance sheet being restructured with potential elimination of the current cash losses in the UK operations and non-cash impairment of legacy investments. According to the companys exchange filing, the project would increase the UKs steel security and be the first significant step towards the local steel industrys decarbonization, resulting in a reduction of direct emissions of 50 million tonnes over a ten-year period. With a high degree of circularity, it would make use of domestic scrap steel that is strategically available and encourage local value addition in the UK. The proposed project would ensure that steelmaking would continue in Port Talbot after the switchover and make Tata Steel UK a lucrative, capital-efficient, and sustainable business. With the support of the UK Government, the project has a compelling investment case. Additionally, the planned project includes restructuring Tata Steels balance sheet, potentially eliminating the ongoing cash losses in the UK business and the non-cash impairment of legacy investments. Tata Steel UK has been facing significant challenges due to the heavy end facilities approaching their end of life. The proposed project with one of the largest investments in the UK Steel Industry in recent decades, provides an opportunity for an optimal outcome for all stakeholders. We will undertake a meaningful consultation with the Unions on the proposed transition pathway in the context of future risks and opportunities for Tata Steel UK. With the support of the UK Government and dedicated efforts of the employees of Tata Steel UK along with all stakeholders, we will work to transform Tata Steel UK into a green, modern future-ready business, said TV Narendran, Tata Steels Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director in an exchange filing. What Do Analysts Say? Most brokerages have given a buy rating on Tata steel scrip. CLSA has assigned an Outperform rating to Tata Steel, with a raised target price of Rs 145 per share from Rs 125. According to CLSA, The companys recent agreement with the UK government to restructure its assets and implement structural changes in operations and cost management is seen as a positive development. While the overhang has been removed, CLSA emphasises that the value accretion for investors will largely depend on the successful realisation of cost savings. Jefferies is bullish on Tata Steel, giving a Buy rating with a target price of Rs 145 per share. Tata Steels collaboration with the UK government, where it invests 750 million while the UK government invests 500 million, is expected to result in higher spreads compared to the existing setup. Furthermore, this investment is viewed as an opportunity to advance decarbonisation, but Jefferies also notes that it missed a chance to reduce exposure to high-cost, low-margin geographies. Citi maintains a Buy rating for Tata Steel, with a target price of Rs 140 per share. The UK governments support for Tata Steels EAF investment is seen as a positive step towards ensuring continuity, sustainability, and green operations, stated Citibank. However, Citi exercises caution, suggesting that it may be premature to gauge the full impact of this development until there is more clarity surrounding union consultations. Even as several states recently reintroduced the old pension scheme (OPS) and several others contemplating it, the RBI on Monday said the decision of some states to revert to OPS poses significant fiscal risks for states, apart from dampening Indias medium-term macroeconomic outlook. Recently, five states reintroduced OPS, including Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. Apart from these, Haryana has also witnessed a series of employee union protests in February to reintroduce OPS. Rajasthan was the first state to reintroduce the old pension scheme in April 2022, followed by Chhattisgarh (notifying OPS in December 2022), Jharkhand and Punjab (October 2022), and Himachal Pradesh (April 2023). The central government introduced the National Pension System (NPS) in 2004, which is a defined contribution (DC) scheme. It replaced the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), which was a defined benefit plan. While pension reforms which took place across the states during the first decade of this century were much needed to assist fiscal consolidation and enhance fiscal flexibility (viz., reallocation of their budget towards growth enhancing expenditures), the recent decisions and announcements by some of the States to revert to the OPS (with a few others contemplating the same), pose significant fiscal risks for the states which could have distortionary effects on the labour market, savings and investments as well as capital market development and dampen the countrys medium-term macroeconomic outlook, the RBI said in its Bulletin September 2023. The pension plans of the governments are generally classified into defined benefit, defined contribution and hybrid pension arrangements. In a DB plan, benefits are defined in advance based on the employees final or average salary and those benefits are guaranteed by the government as the sponsor. In contrast, DC plans do not have a guarantee component. The pension benefits depend upon the market performance of the pension fund and the governments cost is limited to a prespecified rate of contribution. Hybrid pension arrangements offer a minimum return or benefit guarantee and may also offer a variable (DClike) benefit over and above the minimum return or benefit guarantee. Recently, a few States like Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh have announced reversal to the OPS from NPS. The immediate gain is that they will not have to spend on NPS contribution of the current employees. In future, however, the unfunded OPS is likely to exert severe pressures on their finances, especially with increasing longevity, the RBI said. Six large states viz., Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Karnataka account for around half of all the subscribers to NPS. Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan are the only two states, which have more than five lakh subscribers (as on November 30, 2022). NPS Vs OPS The National Pension Scheme requires employees to contribute 10 per cent of their basic salary and the government 14 per cent. The eventual payout depends on the market returns on that corpus, which is mostly invested in debt. In contrast, the old pension system guarantees a fixed pension of 50 per cent of an employees last-drawn salary, without requiring them to contribute anything during their working life. The old pension scheme, referred to as the Defined Benefit Pension System (DBPS), is based on the last pay drawn by the employee. The NPS is referred as the Defined Contribution Pension System (DCPS), in which the employer and employee contribute to build a pension wealth payable at the time of retirement by way of annuity/lumpsum withdrawal as per norms. Under the OPS, the employee could withdraw 50 per cent of the last-drawn salary as pension after the retirement. Under the NPS, a person is allowed to withdraw 60 per cent of the accumulated corpus contributed during his/ her working years at the time of retirement, which is tax-free. The remaining 40 per cent is converted into an annuatised product, which could currently provide the person with a pension of 35 per cent of his/ her last-drawn pay. The NPS is applicable to all employees joining services of the central government, including central autonomous bodies (except Armed Forces) on or after January 1, 2004. Many state governments have also adopted NPS architecture and implemented NPS mandatorily for their employees joining on or after a cut-off date. The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) has introduced four eMasters degree programmes in Climate Finance and Sustainability, Renewable Energy and e-Mobility, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, and Business Leadership in Digital Age. Designed for executives, these eMasters degree programmes do not require a GATE score, allowing professionals to pursue advanced education without disrupting their careers. The courses offer a flexible completion timeframe of 1-3 years, catering to diverse schedules. Applications are open until October 31, for fresh cohorts to start from January next year. The Climate Finance and Sustainability programme aims to give a broad overview of financial strategies and sustainable initiatives, whereas the Renewable Energy and e-Mobility programme would cater to the evolving alternative energy sector. The programme in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning will prepare professionals to be adept at the rapidly evolving sector, and the Business Leadership in Digital Age programme will upskill professionals in modern business dynamics. These programmes comprise live interactive classes held on weekends, complemented by self-paced learning. Each course encompasses a 60-credit, 12-module curriculum meticulously crafted to align with industry needs. Renowned faculty and researchers from IIT Kanpur lead these programmes, lending their expertise to foster real-world application. Participants can leverage the credit transfer feature, potentially waiving up to 60 credits for future higher education endeavours (MTech/PhD) at IIT Kanpur. The programmes also grant access to IIT Kanpurs placement and incubation cells, as well as its extensive alumni network, enhancing participants career growth and networking opportunities. Participants will have the chance to visit IIT Kanpurs campus, connect with esteemed faculty, and engage with seasoned professionals, eventually earning the IIT Kanpur alumni status. The IIT has further invited applications for its various other cohorts in Data Science and Business Analytics, Financial Technology and Management, Business Finance, Financial Analysis, Public Policy, Next Generation Wireless Technologies, Cyber Security, as well as Power Sector Regulation, Economics, and Management. Nine months into the year, nine student suicides have been reported at the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), at least four of the deceased belonging to the reserved categories. And yet, barring a few IITs, most do not have an active or functional SC/ST or inclusion cell with standard guidelines to address grievances of students. The fear of being tagged a quota student is real. Discrimination by fellow students, faculty, staff and a strong anti-reservation sentiment throws students from disadvantaged communities into self-doubt. The lack of confidence in counselling or grievance redressal services available on campus further pushes such students to the brink, IITians from the SC/ST communities told News18. Only the IITs at Delhi, Bombay and Guwahati have dedicated and active Scheduled Caste (SC)/Scheduled Tribes (ST) cells that operate separate websites to help students. IIT-Madras, the most affected campus, has high-powered committees on SC/ST/OBC. The Delhi campus, which set up its cell this March, is the only IIT to have a cell with a clearly drafted mandate. Recently, a Right to Information (RTI) application filed by the Ambedkar Periyar Phule Study Circle (AAPSC), a students collective at IIT-Bombay that has been actively working against caste-based discrimination at IITs, found that 16 of the 19 SC/ST cells at IITs across the country are non-functional, while four IITs didnt even have an SC/ST cell. Though the Centre claims that 19 of the 23 IITs have dedicated cells for the welfare of SC/ST students, 16 of them are non-functional, the data revealed. While 18 cells did not have any funds, 16 have not conducted any events since August 2022. Besides, 12 cells did not have rooms allotted for meetings and 10 do not have any information about reservation, or any mechanism to check implementation of central governments reservation policy, the RTI response revealed. The APPSC said it was after the suicide by first-year Dalit student Darshan Solanki that the cell at IIT-B was expanded to have three faculty convenors as well as three student representatives. The SC/ST cell here, which has been active enough, still doesnt have a mandate clarifying its functions, composition, powers and responsibilities. We helped the cell draft a mandate last year, but it hasnt been passed by the institute so far. As compared to the gender cell, which has a proper mandate document and an annual report published every year of its activities, the SC/ST cell is not as organised or even as recognised as a crucial body as other units, said an APPSC member, requesting anonymity. He added that there is a severe lack of representation of reserved communities at the faculty level and students often dont know whom to reach out to for help. Out of the 700-odd faculty strength at IIT-B, only 13 are from SC/ST categories. Until last year, we had worked closely with the SC/ST cell, but after Darshan Solankis case, we gave up hope on the body, as the faculty is not ready to accept that caste discrimination, be it subtle or in the face, did exist on campus. Over the past years, we saw that students who tried to approach the body for complaint redressal were instead forced to withdraw it. Two such complaints, one each in 2019 and 2021, were made against faculty members, the APPSC member quoted above said. Until September this year, nine student suicides have been reported from different IITs. Of these, five incidents took place at IIT-Madras, two from IIT-Delhi and one each from IIT-Bombay and IIT-Hyderabad. Solanki from IIT-B, Ayush Ashna and Anil Kumar from IIT-Delhi while Mamitha Naik from IIT-Hyderabad belonged to the SC community. News18 has sent queries to these IITs for a response on the issues being raised by students and faculty. This report will be update once a response is received. A research scholar from another student collective, Chintabar, at IIT-Madras, said that though there is a high-powered committee for SC/STs, it is essentially an enquiry committee and comes into action only when there is a complaint. It doesnt have any meetings with students from the communities or organise events for them as such to bring an awareness about the issue. Not many complaints are able to reach the committee, as many who may be facing such bias dont have the confidence to access it. Often, when undergraduate student joins, they are asked about their rank by fellow students, which becomes an indirect way of discriminating against them, revealing their reservation status. At times, students from reserved communities struggle with language barrier, and if you are not from an urban setting or do not fit in well, you may feel isolated. This also weighs down heavily on their academic performance as they start doubting their worth, said the student representative from Chintabar. He added that though the institute is taking up active measures to improve the mental health situation after the recent deaths by suicide, such as conducting surveys to identify students who are facing issues, its felt that these measures do not do enough to address socio-economic aspects of mental health. In general, we have come across subtle acts of casteism, for example, in forming peer groups etc. The elite nature of cultural and co-curricular spaces makes students from non-elite background feel excluded, the scholar said. A faculty member from one of the IITs agreed that, to a certain or subtle degree, caste discrimination does exist across campuses, which is not just limited to IITs. There is a new awareness that is being created on all campuses in the wake of the recent cases. The point I want to make is that even if one student on a campus of 4,000 is affected by this kind of bias, the institute has to ensure that its looked into and worked upon, the faculty member said, requesting not to be named. An APPSC group that started functioning at IIT-Mandi, a second-generation IIT, during the Covid-19 pandemic said that they have been demanding setting up of an active SC/ST cell since 2020, but in vain. There have been instance of caste-based bias here and even issues about not allowing non-vegetarian food. The institute is yet to set up a committee that it said will take a decision on the same, said a student, requesting anonymity. As per data shared in Parliament this year, 39 of the 98 student suicides across top higher education institutions in the country over the past five years have taken place at IITs. Over 70% seats across IITs are set aside for the reserved categories, which also includes quota for economically weaker sections (EWS) and minority communities. According to government data shared in Parliament in 2021, a total of 122 students from centrally-funded higher education institutions IITs, NITs, central universities, IIMs and others died by suicide during 2014-21. Of these, 58% students were from reserved categories. If you or someone you know needs help, call any of these helplines: Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata) A recent internal probe conducted by Jadavpur University found that the first-year student who died by suicide on August 9 was seen running naked at the hostel campus. A few minutes before the 17-year-old took the fatal plunge from the second-floor balcony of the main hostel at JU, fellow hostel mates saw him running across the corridor in a naked manner, reported Times of India. The student, who had enrolled in the Bengali honours course at JU, had allegedly attempted to enter the toilet first to take cover and then rushed to a room. However, when he tried to close the door of the room, he was dragged out by third-year engineering student Md Arif and others and was made to stand without a shred of cloth on him in front of the seniors. As per the report by the internal committee, the student was seen running around the corridor between 11.30 pm and 11.45 pm. The boy was held back by a fourth-year engineering student, Satyabrata Roy, and other seniors while the remaining students including other freshers attended a general body meeting conducted within the hostel at around 11 pm to 11.45 pm. The panels report further stated that the students were behaving in a nervous manner when accompanied by Roy. The Jadavpur University report also claimed that around 7.30 pm, ex-student Sourav Chowdhury and four others made the student shout sexist and abusive lines directed towards the women residents of the adjacent police quarters. The student later complained of stomach pain to which the seniors gave him medicines. He was seen sweating profusely during dinner around 8.20 pm and reportedly complained of being under tremendous pressure from his senior roommates who were also indulging in heavy drinking in his room. Between 9 pm and 10.45 pm, the Jadavpur University first-year student was forced to put his signature in a complaint letter addressed to the dean of students. The report of the investigation committee of the university said that there were 15 types of ragging going on in the varsity. According to the report, various types of physical abuse were going on the hostel campus. The investigation committee of the university recommended 136 students as guilty in the death of the first-year student. A meeting of the executive council of the university is going to be held on September 26. It is believed that this report is likely to be discussed in that meeting. If you or someone you know needs help, call any of these helplines: Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata) Indian-American Republican presidential aspirant Vivek Ramaswamy has called H-1B visa programme as a form of indentured servitude and vowed to gut the lottery-based system and replace it with meritocratic admission if he wins the race to the White House in 2024. The H-1B visa programme is designed to allow skilled foreign workers to come to the United States and work for American companies. It is the most sought-after visa category among Indian IT professionals as it allows US-based companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occasions requiring theoretical or technical know-how. The H-1B visa, though high in demand, requires long waiting time extending to several years and the selection process, involving the lottery system, has been much criticised in the past. What Has Vivek Ramaswamy said? Ramaswamy acknowledged his own experience with immigration during his opening remarks at the first Republican debate in Milwaukee and said the H-1B system is bad for everyone involved. He himself has used the H-1B visa programme 29 times. My parents came to this country with no money 40 years ago. I have gone on to found multi-billion-dollar companies, Ramaswamy said. Ramaswamy has referred to the H-1B visa programme as the lottery system that needs to be replaced by actual meritocratic admission. The lottery system needs to be replaced by actual meritocratic admission. Its a form of indentured servitude that only accrues to the benefit of the company that sponsored an H-1B immigrant. Ill gut it, Ramaswamy said in a statement, adding that the US needs to eliminate chain-based migration. The people who come as family members are not the meritocratic immigrants who make skills-based contributions to this country, he added. Ramaswamys stance on H-1B visas is reminiscent of the 2016 Trump campaign, when Donald Trump, who has also hired a number of foreign workers under H-1B visas for his businesses, took a hardline stance on these foreign workers before later softening his rhetoric. What is H-1B visa programme? H-1B visas are highly sought after, and the demand for these workers continues to increase. Every year, the US gives 65,000 H-1B visas which are open to all and 20,000 to those with advanced US degrees. Currently, nearly three-fourths of H-1B visas go to Indian professionals. However, there is a huge demand and limited seats for the visa programme. For 85,000 available H-1B visa slots, the US businesses submitted 780,884 applications for fiscal year 2021, jumping by more than 60 percent. In July, Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, a Democrat, introduced a bill proposing to double the annual intake of highly skilled foreign workers on H-1B work visas coveted by Indian professionals. The bill also seeks to double the number of H-1B visas available annually from 65,000 to 130,000 to allow American employers, including in critical technology sectors, to draw the best talent from around the world. Problems with the H-1B visas The H-1B visa are highly sought-after category used by Indian professionals in the US as many use them as a precursor for permanent residency. However, the waiting periods for the employment-based green card for Indians can stretch into decades. The waiting period for the H-1B visa programme went to two years following the Covid-19 pandemic due to the backlog. However, in a recent statement, US Consulate General Mumbai said the applicants can now schedule their appointments within the standard time frame. The US embassy in India has already processed over 9 lakh non-immigrant visa currently and is expected to pass the one million mark soon. Apart from the cap on H-1B visas, the applicants and holders face several other issues in the US. The H-1B holders in the US dont have several rights, for instance, they cannot vote in US elections and the visas last only for three years after which it requires an extension (after which the entire visa must be renewed). Though, there are other visa categories for Indian immigrants like B1/B2 visas, that allow them to find a new job, but it is not permissible to engage in any kind of employment under the visa categories. When someone on B1/B2 visa gets a job in the US, they will need to get a work permit and therefore have to change their status to an employment-authorized status. The search operation is underway following the intense gunbattle between the Pakistan-backed terrorists and security forces in Kokernag of South Kashmirs Anantnag district, which lasted for over 100 hours. Security forces recovered a charred body from the hilly forest area where the encounter is underway, but its identity is yet to be ascertained. The operation to flush out terrorists, which entered day six on Monday, has been underway in the Gadole forest area of Anantnag since Wednesday, when three brave security forces personnel, including Commanding Officer of the 19 Rashtriya Rifles Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak, and Deputy Superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police Humayun Bhat lost their lives in the operation. Drones, Helicopters Being Used For Surveillance The heavily armed terrorists, believed to be two to three in number, are hiding in tactical locations in the dense and steep forest. As per sources, this seems like a new pattern employed by terrorists to hide from security forces. On Sunday, security forces widened the area of operation to neighbouring villages and fired several mortar shells toward the forest. They are using drones and helicopters for surveillance of the dense forest area where terrorists are believed to be holed up since Wednesday. Terrorist Hiding in Cave-like Hideouts As per officials, there were several cave-like hideouts in the forest area and drones were being used to pinpoint their locations to carry out attacks on them. Drone footage showed a terrorist running for cover after one such hideout was hit by shells fired by security forces on Friday. Search Op Extended To Neighboring Villages The security cordon has been extended to neighbouring Posh Kreeri area as a precautionary measure to ensure that terrorists dont slip into civilian habitation, the officials said. What Happened So Far On Friday night, riveting footage emerged that captured the use of weaponized drones, strategically employed to neutralize terrorist cave hideouts. The Anantnag operation has evolved into one of the most prolonged military engagements in Kashmir but the security forces are sparing no effort in their mission to eradicate terrorist hideouts nestled within the challenging terrain of Gadool Hill. Inputs suggest that the area may be concealing two to three terrorists, including two Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists, among them self-styled LeT commander Uzair Khan. Our forces persist with unwavering resolve as they encircle 2 LET terrorists including Uzair Khan, Jammu and Kashmir Police said. The Northern Army commander on Saturday visited the site of the gunfight to take stock of the operational situation. Lt Gen Dwivedi was briefed by the ground commanders on the high-intensity operations, in which hi-tech equipment is being used for surveillance and delivery of firepower, along with the high impact of precision fire being used by the forces. The Northern Army commander inspected the drone which has been used to survey the area and track the terrorists. Problems on the battlefield and in the economy put Russia even more in the hands of "unreliable actors," but Moscow is ready to make its people suffer even more, NATO Admiral Rob Bauer believes. According to the n-tv channel (Germany), he said this in Oslo at the annual NATO conference at the level of defense chiefs (chiefs of general staff) of the Alliance countries. According to Bauer, Russia is becoming increasingly dependent on "unreliable actors" due to Western sanctions and diplomatic pressure. The Russian armed forces are losing more and more positions, and the whole of Russia is suffering from the consequences of economic sanctions and diplomatic isolation, Bauer said at the conference. Russia is forced to cooperate with unreliable actors, growing ever more dependent, the ntv quoted Bauer as saying. As n-tv notes, Bauer did not name specific players on whom Russia depends. Russian President Vladimir Putin recently met with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un. Putin also has many contacts with other controversial rulers, such as Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. Shortly after Kim Jong Un, he also arrived at a meeting in Russia - the seventh this year. Belarus has long been considered Russia's closest ally in the war against Ukraine. Bauer also said that the Russian leadership believes that it will withstand the determination of the Ukrainian people and its allies. Russia has been preparing for confrontation for years. And they are willing for their population and their economy to endure unending hardships, Bauer said. The annual NATO Conference at the level of defense chiefs (Chiefs of General Staff) of the Alliance countries was held in Oslo (Norway) on September 15-17. Leaders from across the globe and the nation wished Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he celebrated his 73rd birthday on Sunday. The prime minister inaugurated YashoBhoomi convention centre and the extended airport express line in Delhis Dwarka. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni took to the microblogging site X to wish PM Modi and wrote, Happy Birthday Wishes @narendramodi. A friend committed to building the future and proud of the history of a great nation close to Italy. Auguri di buon compleanno @narendramodi.Un amico impegnato a costruire il futuro ed orgoglioso della storia di una grande Nazione vicina allItalia. Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) September 17, 2023 Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama also extended birthday greetings to prime minister Narendra Modi wishing him a long life and success in fulfilling peoples aspirations. Dalai Lama in his letter also congratulated the prime minister for the success the G20 Summit under Indias presidency. The Buddhist leader wrote, May I also take this opportunity to congratulate you on the success of Indias G20 presidency, culminating in the summit on the theme of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam One Earth, One Family, One Future. This is a theme that resonates strongly with me. I firmly believe in the oneness of humanity and encourage other people to appreciate its importance whenever I can, said the Tibetan leader. He thanked India for its more than six-decade-long refuge to the Tibetans and hailed it for its long-held principles of non-violence and compassion. Indias traditions of ahimsa and karuna are more than 1,000 years old. As the largest democracy and most populous nation on the planet, with a long tradition of inter-religious harmony, India presents an example to the world. On behalf of the Tibetan people, may I once again express deep gratitude to the government and people of India for their hospitality and generous assistance to us over the last 64 years, he said. The Buddhist leader prayed for the good health of the prime minister and wished him success in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the people and contributing to the creation of a more compassionate, peaceful world. Further Mauritius prime minister Pravind Jugnauth also wished PM Modi on his birthday and posted on X, Heartiest wishes to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji on his birthday. May him be blessed with good health and happiness. I have no doubt that his staunch resolve to serve his Nation and uplift partners will remain as steady as ever. Heartiest wishes to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji on his birthday. May him be blessed with good health and happiness. I have no doubt that his staunch resolve to serve his Nation and uplift partners will remain as steady as ever. @narendramodi Pravind Kumar Jugnauth (@KumarJugnauth) September 17, 2023 Further, former Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu also sent his birthday greetings to the prime minister, saying that under PM Modis exemplary leadership, Bharat has grown to unprecedented heights in all domains. Heartiest birthday greetings to Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji. Under his exemplary leadership, Bharat has grown to unprecedented heights in all domains. May he be blessed with a long life & continue to serve Bharat Mata with devotion inspiring the youth of the nation. pic.twitter.com/RCU69V6phq M Venkaiah Naidu (@MVenkaiahNaidu) September 17, 2023 Other than global leaders, several Bollywood actors also took to social media to wish the prime minister on his birthday. Shah Rukh Khan took to X and wrote, Happy Birthday to Hon. PM Shri @narendramodi ji!!! Have a healthy and joyful day. May u get some time off from work and have a bit of fun too. Best wishes. Happy Birthday to Hon. PM Shri @narendramodi ji!!! Have a healthy and joyful day. May u get some time off from work and have a bit of fun too. Best wishes. Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) September 17, 2023 Earlier, Akshay Kumar while sharing a picture with PM Modi on X wrote, Happy Birthday @narendramodi ji. Keep inspiring us, year after year. Wishing you great health, prayers and happiness always. Happy Birthday @narendramodi ji. Keep inspiring us, year after year Wishing you great health, prayers and happiness always. pic.twitter.com/9JTFeEJ71w Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) September 17, 2023 Actor Anupam Kher also took to his Instagram handle to wish the prime minister in a heartwarming note, Respected Prime Minister @narendramodi ji! Wish you a very happy birthday! May God grant you a long and healthy age! May you continue to lead our India for many years to come with the same loyalty and hard work. In the last 9 years, what you have done for the country, all Indians in every corner of the world feel proud. Your lifestyle is extremely inspiring. My mother, who calls you a saint, is also sending you her loving blessings. Hail! Kajol also took to X and wrote, Happy Birthday to our honourable Prime Minister @narendramodi ji! May your vision for a stronger India continue to thrive, and may this year bring great accomplishments. Meanwhile, Salman Khan on his X handle wrote, Wishing Hon PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji A Very Happy Birthday@narendramodi. (With inputs from PTI) Gujarat has been witnessing heavy rainfall since Sunday, leading to floods in various districts of the state. Bharuch has been the worst-affected by floods, with videos of waterlogged roads going viral on social media. Bharuch, located close to river Narmada, has been bearing the brunt of the river flowing above the danger mark. NDRF teams reached Bharuch to conduct rescue operations, and safely evacuated 16 people. #WATCH | Gujarat | Heavy rainfall in Bharuch causes waterlogging in the city. Visuals from various parts of the city. pic.twitter.com/qRHNZR1iaN ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2023 Life in low-lying towns near Narmada came to a standstill, with no transportation facility available. Since Sunday, more than 9,613 people have been relocated, while 207 have been rescued from Narmada, Bharuch, Vadodara, Dahod and Panchmahal districts in Gujarat. Schools, Colleges Closed Given the flood situation, the Gujarat government ordered the closure of schools, colleges and ITIs in Narmada district. Swollen Rivers The gates of the dam were unlatch to a height of 5.60 metres for a safe rise to the full reservoir level (FRL) of 138.68 metres as the Sardar Sarovar dam. Currently, the water level stands at 137.32 metres, said officials at the Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited (SSNNL). Water level in the Sardar Sarovar Dam was reduced by 10 lakh cusecs after 23 gates of the dam were opened. Other rivers like Orsang, Heran, Mahi, Meshri and Panam were also swollen and flowing above their normal range because of incessant rainfall. #WATCH | Narmada, Gujarat: Sardar Sarovar Dam built on the Narmada River had its water level reduced by 10 lakh cusecs after the water was released by opening 23 gates of the dam. pic.twitter.com/8jdOqmhkk3 IMD Advisory Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has also issued red alert for seven districts Panchmahal, Dahod, Kheda, Aravalli, Mahisagar, Banaskantha and Sabarkantha. As per the IMD, Junagarh, Porbandar and Gir Somnath may received moderate rainfall. Light rain may occur in Ahmedabad, Mahesana, Gandhinagar, Patan, Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Aravalli, Mahisagar, Panchmahal, Khera, Anand, Vadodara, Dahod, Chhota Udepur, Bharuch, Narmada, Surat, Tapi, Devbhumi Dwarka, Jamnagar, Morbi, Surendranagar, Rajkot, Amreli, Botad, Bhavnagar, Kutch and in Diu. The Central Reserve Police Forces elite CoBRA unit has been deployed in J&K for the first time, sources told News18 on Monday, indicating that security missions similar to the anti-Naxal operations in Left-Wing Extremist areas could be carried out in the Valley. Sources said the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) units, previously stationed in Bihar and Jharkhand, were stationed in Kashmirs Kupwara after being brought for training in April. They, however, werent given any assignments yet. But now, they are ready for deployment, a source said. The Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) is a specialised guerilla warfare commando unit of the CRPF, with extensive expertise in fighting in forests. The majority of CoBRA teams, whose commandos are expected to have tough mental and physical attributes, are deployed in various Naxal violence-affected states while a few are based in the northeastern states for undertaking counter-insurgency operations. The CRPF, with a strength of about 3.25 lakh personnel, is designated as the lead internal security combat unit with its maximum deployment in three major theatres of Jammu and Kashmir, Left Wing Extremism-affected states and insurgency-hit areas on Indias northeast. The development comes even as the operation to flush out terrorists holed up in the Gadole forest area of J&Ks Anantnag district entered the sixth day on Monday. Security forces are using drones and helicopters for surveillance of the dense forest area with several cave-like hideouts where terrorists are believed to be holed up since Wednesday after killing two Army officers and a deputy superintendent of police in the initial exchange of fire, the officials said. The security cordon has been extended to the neighbouring Posh Kreeri area on Sunday as a precautionary measure to ensure that terrorists dont slip into civilian areas, they said. Top officials of the security grid in Kashmir, including the director general of police GP and General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Armys 15 Corps, have been monitoring the operation. The Noida police, in a precautionary measure, enforced CrPC section 144 in Uttar Pradeshs Noida and Greater Noida restricting unlawful assembly of five or more people, unauthorised public events, including religious and political processions. The order was issued in view of the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi, Moto GP and the UP International Trade Show to renew the same restrictions which were imposed from September 6 to 15. Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (law and order) Hridesh Katheria said, Vishwakarma Puja is to be celebrated on September 17 while the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi will be celebrated on September 19. Apart from this, the International Trade Show at Expo Mart is scheduled from September 21 to 25 and the MotoGP Bharat at Buddha International Circuit, Greater Noida from September 22 to 24. Apart from this, various programs like competitive examinations are proposed to be held in Gautam Buddh Nagar and a Rail Roko campaign by farmers may also take place besides protests by various organisations from time to time, said Katheria in the order. While renewing the restrictions Katheria said that the possibility of anti-social elements disrupting peace cannot be ruled out. Restrictions As Per The Order No person shall, without the prior permission of the commissioner of police, additional commissioner of police and deputy commissioners of police, take out any kind of procession of five or more persons. No person is allowed to form a group of five or more persons in a public place, nor join some group. Operation of private drones will be completely prohibited in one-kilometre radius above and around government offices. At other places also, no shooting or photography will be done with any kind of drone camera without the permission of the commissioner of police and the additional commissioner of police. Movement of light, medium or heavy goods carriers have been banned from Delhi to Noida from 6 am on September 21 to 25 for the MotoGP and UP International Trade Show in Greater Noida. Heavy vehicles along with autos will not be allowed on the DND Flyway, Chilla Road, Kalindi Kunj, New Ashok Nagar and Jhundpura borders. The Noida-Greater Noida and Yamuna expressway are also off limits. Vehicles carrying goods marked under essential services like milk, vegetables, medicines will be allowed. This rule can be relaxed as per requirement in programmes permitted by the government, the order read. After Saturdays foiled infiltration bid, top government sources told CNN-News18 that the Government of India (GoI) has various options to retaliate. ALSO READ | Army Foils Infiltration Bid in J&Ks Baramulla Despite Pakistans Cover Fire to Help Terrorists These infiltrators cant be launched without the support of Pakistan army because these sectors are all manned and controlled by them. These heavily trained terrorists are sent, with support fire, deep inside the jungle. They are experts in ambush," said sources. THE THREE OPTIONS The options listed by the top government sources: Ending ceasfire: We have the option of ending ceasefire with immediate effect to save our borders," sources said. Pakistan economy is doing very badly and their interior ministry has to pay huge LoC maintenance charge to the Defence Ministry."The India-Pakistan joint statement of February 25, 2021 agreed for strict observance of all agreements, understandings and cease firing along the Line of Control and all other sectors with effect from midnight 24/25 February 2021". Attack on launching camps: We can attack their launching camps where these infiltrators are sitting and breach their territory to save our interests," sources added.In exclusive information accessed by News18 earlier, Pakistan has shifted all its terror camps and launch pads near LoC to increase infiltration in the area. These terror camps have recruits from Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Hizbul Mujahideen, sources told News18. The route maps, accessed by News18, show infiltrators using multiple entry routes to avoid any incident of firing by the Indian security forces. According to new intelligence input accessed by News18, all launch pads have trained terrorists, who are directly managed by Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence. Merger of PoK and Gilgit-Baltistan: People of the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan have been asking for merger with India and their voice can be supported. Earlier this month, thousands of Pakistanis took to the streets of Gilgit-Baltistan to protest the arrest of Shia cleric Agha Baqir al-Hussaini under the countrys blasphemy laws. The protesters are allegedly threatening the Pakistani administration that they want a merger with India if their leader is not released. According to sources, people in Gilgit-Baltistan have been ruing being left behind" in development, and crying over the lack of facilities". We have to risk our lives for small things," is the refrain among the protesters. The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has a majority mandate and is in a position to take any extreme step. No option can be ruled out and we are ready for anything once our political masters are convinced," sources added. WHAT HAPPENED ON SATURDAY? Security forces foiled on Saturday an infiltration bid in Baramulla district and neutralized three terrorists, while the Pakistan Army was giving cover fire and targeting quadcopters of the Indian Army. ALSO READ | No Surgical Strike, But Terrorist Infiltration Foiled from Balakote Sector, Says India Meanwhile, the operation against terrorists in Kokernag area of Jammu and Kashmirs Anantnag district entered the fifth day on Sunday, with security forces encircling the hilly forest area. Security forces have been chasing the terrorists, believed to be two or three in number, since Wednesday, the day when Commanding Officer of the 19 Rashtriya Rifles Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak, Deputy Superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police Humayun Bhat and a soldier lost their lives in the operation. As the Womens Reservation Bill is set to be tabled in Parliament, it is a significant victory for every single women of our nation. I extend my best wishes to all the citizens of our country, both sisters and brothers. With the ruling party holding a clear majority in the Loksabha, the passage of this bill should occur smoothly, without any obstacles. The party made this commitment not once, but twice, in their manifestos, first in 2014 and then in 2019. The only missing piece was the political determination to see it through. Now is the time for the women of this country to take the centre stage in politics, a space they truly deserve. This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in strengthening and shaping of our democracy. Now empowered women, empowering India will not be a distant dream! BRS leader Kavitha wrote in an X post. Ganesh Chaturthi, the vibrant festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, holds a special place in the hearts of millions, especially in the state of Maharashtra. The year the celebration starts today on September 19 and ends on September 28. One of the key elements that add to the fervour and devotion of this festival is the soul-stirring Marathi Ganpati songs. ALSO READ: Happy Ganesh Chaturthi 2023: Top 50 Wishes, Images, Messages, Greetings to Share on Vinakaya Chaturthi! These songs not only invoke a sense of spirituality but also create an atmosphere of unity and celebration. In this article, we present five popular Marathi Ganpati songs that you should definitely listen to this Ganesh Chaturthi. Sukhkarta Dukhharta Sukhkarta Dukhharta is an iconic Marathi Ganpati aarti that resonates with devotees across generations. This timeless prayer is sung at the beginning of every Ganesh Chaturthi celebration, invoking Lord Ganeshas blessings for happiness and the removal of sorrows. Its soothing melody and profound lyrics make it a must-listen during the festival. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dl-9SxjyUf0&ab_channel=WingsMarathi Ashtavinayak Tuza Mahima Kasa Ashtavinayak Tuza Mahima Kasa is a devotional Marathi song that pays homage to the eight different forms of Lord Ganesha known as the Ashtavinayak. These eight temples dedicated to Ganesha are scattered across Maharashtra and are visited by devotees during this auspicious time. This song beautifully captures the essence of these holy places and the reverence they hold in the hearts of devotees. Pratham Tula Vandito Pratham Tula Vandito is a heartwarming Marathi Ganpati song that expresses the joy and devotion of the festival. Sung with immense love and fervor, this song portrays the beauty of welcoming Lord Ganesha into homes and hearts. Its a song that captures the essence of the traditional Ganesh Chaturthi celebration. Ranjangavala Ranjangavala is a traditional Marathi Ganpati song that adds a touch of folk culture to the celebrations. This song, often accompanied by energetic dholki beats, encourages devotees to dance in devotion to Lord Ganesha. The lively and rhythmic nature of Ranjangavala makes it a must-have on your Ganesh Chaturthi playlist. Gajanana Shri Ganraya Gajanana Shri Ganraya is another timeless Marathi song that beautifully encapsulates the spirit of devotion. Sung with great enthusiasm, this song describes the greatness and magnificence of Lord Ganesha. Its energetic tune and soul-stirring lyrics make it a favorite among devotees during Ganesh Chaturthi processions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fV8WIzEHD-E&ab_channel=SaregamaMarath Ganesh Chaturthi is a festival that unites people in devotion and celebration, and Marathi Ganpati songs play a pivotal role in enhancing the festive atmosphere. These five popular songs are a glimpse of the rich musical heritage that accompanies this grand festival in Maharashtra. ALSO READ: Ganesh Chaturthi 2023: Date, History, Significance, Rituals, Muhurat, Puja Vidhi, Vrat Katha, and More As you prepare to welcome Lord Ganesha into your homes and communities, make sure to include these melodious tracks in your playlist. They will undoubtedly elevate the spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi, making it a truly memorable and joyous occasion. Ganesh Chaturthi is an immensely popular Hindu festival celebrated in various regions, notably Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka, Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad, with tremendous enthusiasm. It commemorates the arrival of Lord Ganesha, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, to bless people. This year it will be celebrated from September 19 to September 28. ALSO READ: Happy Ganesh Chaturthi 2023: Top 50 Wishes, Images, Messages, Greetings to Share on Vinakaya Chaturthi! During this festival, many households welcome idols of Lord Ganesha in various sizes into their homes. These clay idols become objects of daily devotion, receiving offerings of prasad and the melodious chanting of Bhajans. The grand culmination of the festival occurs on the tenth day, marked by spirited drum beats, singing, and dancing, as the idol bids farewell and is immersed in nearby rivers during Visarjan. WATCH: 10 Dos, Donts for Welcoming Lord Ganesha This poignant act symbolizes Lord Ganeshas return to his heavenly abode at Mount Kailash, where he is believed to reside with his parents, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. If you plan to welcome Ganpati Bappa into your home, here are some important dos and donts to keep in mind. Dos 1. Before bringing Lord Ganesha home, make sure to clean your house thoroughly and take a bath. Also, make sure to offer everything including food, water, or prasad to Lord Ganesha first and then to others. 2. When welcoming Ganesha home, cover the idol with a red cloth or chunari. Also, place a sacred thread called Janve on the left shoulder of the idol. ALSO READ: Ganesh Chaturthi 2023: Date, History, Significance, Rituals, Muhurat, Puja Vidhi, Vrat Katha, and More 3. For good luck, place Lord Ganeshas idol facing east, west, or northeast during the sthapana ceremony. 4. Decorate Lord Ganesha with garlands of flowers, durva grass, and red blossoms. Apply a tilak made from sandalwood paste. 5. According to tradition, worshippers can bring a Ganesha idol home for 1, 3, 7, or 10 days and place it on a clean and decorated platform. 6. Dont forget to add a majestic crown or mukut to your Ganesha idol for good luck and fortune. Donts 1. Its recommended for devotees and their family members to avoid using garlic and onions, whether it is for prasad or household consumption. 2. It is important for the family members not to leave the house empty. Ensure that at least one family member is present with the idol at all times. 3. While installing the idol or during the immersion process, do not close the main door of the house. 4. These 10 days, its advisable to steer clear of quarrels or conflicts at home and maintain a positive environment. 5. For a successful visarjan (immersion) of the Ganesha idol, be sure to follow the auspicious time and immerse the idol only after offering prayers and prasad to Lord Ganesha. 6. During the festival, avoid consuming meat and alcohol as a mark of devotion and respect for Lord Ganesha. Aamir Khans son, Junaid, made his acting debut with theatre in August 2017, having worked for over 6 years in the field and while he has made a mark there with lots of impressive work over the years, he is all set to make his screen debut very soon with Yash Raj Films, Maharaj as was announced during the Netflix press conference. He also has one other film in the lineup where he will star opposite Sai Pallavi, as per recent news. A source close to the film reveals, Junaid accompanied the team of his next film, an untitled love story in which he will star with Sai Pallavi under the direction of Sunil Pandey, to the city of Sapporo in Japan. The team had gone to do a recce for the film in the works as the preps for the same have begun. It is a love story set in the scenic beauty of this city, Sapporo which has never before been shown in Indian cinema, so theres going to be something really different in that aspect, in the film. Donning a casual attire at the airport, the young lad was clicked arriving back in Mumbai from Japan as he shyly posed for the paparazzi photographers. Checkout- Following his passion for acting, Junaid Khan made his debut with theatre in August 2017 with director Quasar Thakore Padamsees adaptation of Bertolt Brechts Mother Courage and Her Children, a biting satire on the absurdity of war. Since then the actor has been has been following his passion and honing his craft with years of dedicated and impressive work in theatre and is now finally set for his screen debut with YRFs Maharaj, followed by this untitled love story with Sai Pallavi as per reports. Junaid Khans debut film is a one-of-a-kind David vs Goliath Story Maharaj. The production house YRF recently confirmed the same, while announcing their collaboration with Netflix for the same. Apart from Junaid Khans debut with Maharaj, the film will also star Jaideep Ahlawat, Sharvari & Shalini Pandey. The film has been directed by Siddharth P. Malhotra, whose last film Hichki was a global hit. Inspired by true events, Maharaj, is an incredible David vs Goliath story set in the 1800s, about how a regular man, journalist by profession, takes on a powerful role-model of society, hailed by many as a messiah for the masses. The fearless reporter uncovers a series of incidents that shake the very foundation of society. Ganesh Chaturthi is a sacred Hindu festival that commemorates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the deity symbolizing wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. This year the celebration starts today on September 19 and ends on September 28. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy. The festivities for this occasion start months in advance with the crafting of idols dedicated to Lord Ganesha. ALSO READ: Happy Ganesh Chaturthi 2023: Top 50 Wishes, Images, Messages, Greetings to Share on Vinakaya Chaturthi! During the festival, streets across the country come alive in a burst of colours, resounding with drumbeats and exuberant dancing. To enhance your Ganesh Chaturthi celebration, heres a list of songs you can add to your playlist. Deva Shree Ganesha Agneepath Hrithik Roshans character gracefully pays tribute to Lord Ganesha with his mesmerizing dance moves. The song is composed by Ajay-Atul and features lyrics by Amitabh Bhattacharya. Aala Re Aala Ganesha Daddy The song starring Arjun Rampal is a perfect choice for dancing at Ganpati celebrations as it truly embodies the spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi. It features vocals by Wajid and Dr. Ganesh Chandanshive, with music composed by Sajid-Wajid and lyrics by Prashant Ingole. Sadda Dil Vi Tu ABCD This song from the film ABCD masterfully blends Western and Indian musical elements to create a harmonious fusion. Dedicated to Ganpati, it features catchy beats and Hard Kaurs rap gives it a unique desi touch. Mourya Re Don This song from the film Don 2 starring Shah Rukh Khan perfectly captures the joy and enthusiasm of Ganesha devotees. In the song, the actor hits the streets of Mumbai and showcases his dance moves in this high-energy visarjan song, which is sung by Shankar Mahadevan Shendur Laal Chadhayo Vaastav This song is an aarti dedicated to Lord Ganesha, beautifully capturing the essence of the festival with its spiritual feel and Marathi touch. Hey Ganaraya ABCD 2 This song from the film ABCD 2 is an ideal choice for revelling in the festive spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi. Starring Varun Dhawan in the lead, its a devotional yet exhilarating track, sung by Divya Kumar and composed by Sachin & Jigar. Turkish security forces neutralized six PKK/YPG terrorists in northern Syria, the National Defense Ministry said on Monday, Azernews reports, citing Anadolu Agency.? The terrorists were targeted after they were found to be preparing an attack in the Operation Euphrates Shield region, the ministry said on X.? It said they will continue to intervene against PKK/YPG terrorists whose only aim is to shed blood in the region. Turkish authorities use the term neutralized to imply the terrorists in question surrendered or were killed or captured. PKK/YPG terrorists hide out in northern Syria, near the Turkish border, where they plan and carry out attacks on both locals and nearby settlements in Turkiye. Since 2016, Ankara has launched a trio of successful anti-terror operations across its border in northern Syria to prevent the formation of a terror corridor and enable the peaceful settlement of residents: Euphrates Shield (2016), Olive Branch (2018), and Peace Spring (2019). 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. The YPG is PKKs Syrian offshoot. Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak has called on coordinators of EU sanctions and the entire sanctions coalition to "tackle Russia's military-industrial complex." "We should tackle Russia's military-industrial complex. Western components are still used in Russian weapons. Missiles and drones are an absolute priority here. They production has been increasing," he said on the Telegram channel on Monday. According to Yermak, this means that "our civilian infrastructure and energy system are in even more danger than last year. We have to ensure that Russia's military-industrial complex never receives access to western microelectronics. The same goes for machine building and sensitive technologies." "This requires the expansion of export control, strengthening of companies' compliance, unified lists of dual-use goods, and synchronization of export policies," Yermak said. According to him, "in the sphere of energy sanctions, it is necessary to reduce and improve control over compliance with the Russian oil price cap. Violations of price restrictions must be eliminated, as well as the operations of the Russian shadow fleet. The possibility of banning Russian liquefied natural gas should also be considered." "Further decisive action is needed against Russian propagandists. They must be clearly identified and access to all their assets outside of Russia should be denied. Moreover, they and their close relatives should not enjoy the benefits of a comfortable life and earn income abroad. They should be banned from entering the civilized world," he said. "We must not hesitate to use the tools of the 11th package against third countries, companies and people helping the aggressor," Yermak said. Mrunal Thakur, who has gained fame not only in the world of Bollywood but also in the realm of regional cinema, recently attended the South Indian International Movie Awards (SIIMA) 2023 in Dubai. The star-studded event, held on Friday evening, witnessed the presence of countless celebrities from the film fraternity. However, amidst the dazzling array of stars, it was Mrunal Thakur who stole the limelight. She earned two prestigious titles Best Actress (Critics) and Best Debut in Telugu Cinema for her extraordinary portrayal in the critically acclaimed Sita Ramam. Over the years, she has meticulously carved a niche with her stellar performances and versatile acting prowess. Film Sita Ramam has not only won accolades from critics but also captured the hearts of audiences far and wide. The recent accolades Mrunal secured at the 11th edition of SIIMA Awards 2023 testify to her exceptional talent and dedication to her craft. Expressing her heartfelt gratitude, Mrunal Thakur shared a series of photos of herself, on Instagram, holding the awards. In her caption, she wrote, Thank you SIIMA Awards for this incredible honour and for making this memorable journey as Sita, so much more special for me! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mrunal Thakur (@mrunalthakur) She further added, I never imagined that my Telugu debut would be met with SOOOO much love Its still unbelievable to see how you all have welcomed me as your very own Sita Gaaru, and the love youll have shown me, my character, and the film is beyond my wildest dreamsthank you to the lovely audience for it all. I said this before and I will say it again, I promise to always entertain you with every role I take on for many many many more years, and I hope you welcome them with as much love as youve given Sita. Thank you everyone Prior to her own post, SIIMA had shared the actresss photo on Twitter (now known as X), officially announcing her victory. Kudos to the exceptionally talented Mrunal Thakur for clinching the coveted Best Actress in a Leading Role Critics (Telugu) Award at SIIMA 2023, all thanks to her outstanding performance in Sita Ramam. Her portrayal was nothing short of mesmerizing, breathing life into her character on the big screen, the caption read. Kudos to the exceptionally talented #MrunalThakur for clinching the coveted Best Actress in a Leading Role Critics (Telugu) Award at SIIMA 2023, all thanks to her outstanding performance in Sita Ramam. Her portrayal was nothing short of mesmerizing, breathing life into her pic.twitter.com/fptGbzrZlR SIIMA (@siima) September 15, 2023 At this years SIIMA event, Mrunal Thakur attended the event in a body-hugging shimmery pink gown, exuding elegance and grace. Notably, the film Sita Ramam, in which she portrayed the character of the female lead, Sita, also secured the Best Film (Telugu) award. Directed by Hanu Raghavapudi, Sita Ramam is a tragic romance film. Apart from Mrunal, Dulquer Salmaan and Rashmika Mandanna are also a part of the film. It was released in August 2022. Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi and Rajkumar Hirani left fans excited after they were spotted together on a set recently. Their reunion led fans to speculate about Munna Bhai 3. However, it is now being reported that the trio reunited to shoot for a commercial. According to a report in Hindustan Times, Sanjay and Arshad shot for an ad for a hospital. There is no film in the making. They shot for a commercial for a hospital, and the BTS video was released online, which started the rumours, a source told HT. The report further states that Munna Bhai 3 may never happen. Elaborating on the reason, another source told the publication, There are very less chances of the third film happening now because of the fallout between Rajkummar Hirani and (producer) Vidhu Vinod Chopra. It has been several years since they parted ways. In fact, there was a film with a working title Munna Bhai Chale America, but that was soon shelved without any reason. The script was finalised and the pre-production had also started, but it could not happen. Last week, a video featuring Sanjay Dutt in his Munna Bhai avatar, sporting a bright orange shirt, went viral. The video showed the actor walking with Rajkumar Hirani on a set, with Munna Bhai title track playing in the background. Just moments after Sanjay Dutts entry, Arshad Warsi in his Circuit attire entered and greeted Sanjay Dutt with a hug. And we could hear Rajkumar Hirani say And we are back. After two hit films, Munna Bhai M.B.B.S and Lage Raho Munna Bhai, there were several speculations that a third film was in the making. However, in an interview earlier this year, Arshad shared that, Munna Bhai 3 may not happen. Shweta Tiwari has carved a niche for herself and there is no doubt that she is a brilliant actress. From television to films, she is a known face. Well, now the actress is super excited for her new web series Indian Police Force which will also star Siddharth Malhotra and Shilpa Shetty. She has also shared behind-the-scenes photos on her handle. Indian Police Force is a web series by Rohit Shetty. Taking to her official Instagram handle, Shweta shared photos with director Rohit Shetty. These pictures look like quick BTS clicks from the sets of the Indian Police Force. Shweta is also a part of the Indian Police Force and will be seen in a pivotal role. Shweta is seen wearing a formal look as she poses with the filmmaker. Sharing these photos, the actress wrote, With The Man Himself! @itsrohitshetty. Take a look here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shweta Tiwari (@shweta.tiwari) Indian Police Force is a cop thriller web series and will mark the debut of Sidharth Malhotra on OTT. The series was shot at various locations in India. Vivek Oberoi and Shilpa Shetty will also be seen playing key roles. Indian Police Force is touted to release in Diwali 2023 on Amazon Prime. Recalling old days, Palak Tiwari in an old interview told Bombay Times, My mom has seen everything, and she has had a tremendous graph. She has seen exponential growth in every sense of the word. And growth in the quality of life. When she started out, she used to live in a chawl-like one-bedroom space. My nana, my nani, my mama, and my mom used to live there, which was just one bedroom, and thats where my mom started. Talking about Rohit Shetty, on September 16, Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, Rohit Shetty and Ranveer Singh kicked off the movie with a mahurat shot at YRF studios. The filmmaker and actors shared photos from the puja they performed on social media. Rohit Shetty, who has pulled off a casting coup with Singham Again, took to social media to write, Singham, Singham returns, Simmba, Sooryavanshi12 Years ago, when we made Singham, we never thought that it would turn into a Cop Universe! Today, we begin filming Singham Again the 5th film in our cop franchisee. ISME HUM APNI JAAN LAGA DENGE! BAS AAPKE PYAAR AUR DUA KI ZAROORAT HAI! Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani are undoubtedly one of the most loved couples in BTown. They enjoy a massive fan following and dont shy away from expressing their love for each other. Monday afternoon, just got brighter the couple were captured at the airport. Not just that, they even dished out major style goals. Sidharth and Kiara were seen twinning and winning our hearts in comfy casuals. While Sidharth donned an olive green T shirt teamed with grey denims and shirt, Kiara on the other hand kept it cool in a white top with blue jeans. Both completed their look with black tinted shades. Have a look at the photos : Kiara Advani married Sidharth Malhotra on February 7 this year in the presence of their close friends and family members in Rajasthan. They fell in love with each other while shooting for their hit film Shershaah. The couple later hosted a mega star-studded reception later in Mumbai. Later, in an interview with News18 Showsha, Kiara opened up on life post her wedding and how it has made her appreciate her mother more than ever. For the first time, Im running a home. I used to live in my parents home. My mum did it all and weve so much respect and value for her right now. But its lovely and a beautiful phase. Im very, very happy, she said. Recently, their film Shershaah won big at the National Film Awards. 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. 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. Kiara on the other hand, will share the screen space with Ram Charan in Game Changer. Besides this, Kiara is also likely to be seen in Don 3 with Ranveer Singh. Kiara was last seen in Satyaprem Ki Katha with Kartik Aaryan. After filmmaker Shoojit Sircar passionately supported Vicky Kaushal for the National Film Award for Best Actor, the actor has now shared his own perspective on the matter. Despite their joint effort, Sardar Udham, receiving five prestigious awards, including Best Hindi Film, at the 69th National Awards, Vicky Kaushal, who brilliantly portrayed Udham Singh, did not receive the Best Actor accolade. The award went to Allu Arjun, the lead actor of Pushpa: The Rise. During a discussion with India Today, Vicky shared his thoughts about the film and its personal importance to him. When questioned if he felt disheartened about not receiving the National Award, Vicky replied, Nahi! The thing is that many times, when you get a film, and get to work with a director that you like, you think thats where your dream has come true, which is genuinely true for Sardar Udham. I am not just saying for the heck of it. Being a Punjabi, that topic, that man, that story is very, very close to my heart. Vicky said that people he knew the Udham Singh story since childhood and wondered why more people dont know about it. We have been listening to this story since our childhood days and always used to wonder why not many people know about this. So, for me, to eventually get the opportunity was a big deal and, after that, what I got or didnt get, everything was a bonus. For me, the story to reach the world, to get appreciated, to get resonated, that is everything. After that, for the film to get all the rewards are all bonuses. I dont have any qualms, he said. Apart from Vicky Kaushal, Sardar Udham also starred Banita Sandhu and Amol Parashar in significant roles. The movie is a biographical depiction of Udham Singh, a Punjabi freedom fighter who carried out the assassination of Michael ODwyer in London as retribution for the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre in Amritsar. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader from Maharashtra and its Dhangar face Gopichand Padalkar has warned chief minister Eknath Shinde of a protest by the community like the Jat agitation from a few years ago that caused tremors in the country. Padalkar, who is also a member of the legislative council (MLC), wrote a two-page letter to the CM, asking him to call a meeting over the demands of the Dhangar community. He has also asked that the case, which the Maharashtra government is fighting in the high court, and that the administrations schemes so far have started to give some relief to the community till the time the issue of reservation doesnt get resolved should be communicated to the community leaders in the meeting. The Dhangar (shepherd) community has been for long demanding the Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, which will allow it to avail reservation in government jobs and education. Padalkar has also asked the chief minister to appoint former advocate general and senior counsel Aashutosh Kumbhakoni permanently for the case of the Dhangar reservations being heard in the HC. The BJP leader, who has frequently raised his voice for the rights of the Dhangar and OBC communities, also asked CM Shinde to formulate a separate law to protect the shepherds, as there have been instances of the members of the community being attacked. He has also reminded the chief minister in the letter to appoint the president of the cooperative society announced for shepherds by the state government for which it has promised to spend Rs 10,000 crore. Padalkar has also asked the chief minister to instruct the state government and its concerned department to review all the schemes announced and initiated for the Dhangar community. He is of the opinion that though govt had said that they will have different schemes for the community for which govt was ready to spend Rs 1,000 crore and some 22 schemes were planned but due to lack of funds not a single scheme was implemented, hence review of this is must. In his letter, Padalkar has also reminded chief minister Shinde that the way the names of Aurangabad and Osmanabad were changed, in the same manner, the name of Ahmednagar district and city should also be changed to Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Nagar as a mark of respect to Queen Ahilyadevi Holkar. The BJP leader also wrote that though the Dhangar community wants all its problems to be resolved through constitutional means, if the government doesnt pay attention and there are further delays, a Jat-style protest may take place in Maharashtra. The opposition alliance will be responsible if next years Lok Sabha elections turn into a Sanatan Dharma versus INDIA bloc contest, said Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) working president Alok Kumar on Sunday. Recently, DMK leaders Udhayanidhi Stalin and A Raja triggered a controversy after they claimed that Sanatan Dharma had sown divisions in society and must be eradicated on the lines of diseases like dengue, malaria and coronavirus. DMK is a part of the opposition grouping of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) that has been formed to take on the ruling BJP in the 2024 general elections. If this happens, the responsibility for this will be on the INDIA bloc, Kumar told PTI on Sunday in reply to a question about the possibility that next years Lok Sabha elections will be contested on the issue of Sanatan Dharma versus INDIA bloc. The VHP leader said that if religion and Hindutva are made an issue in the elections, then the responsibility will be on those who are giving statements against Lord Ram and Ramcharit Manas. These people will also have to suffer the consequences, he said. Kumar claimed that when Udhayanidhi was making objectionable statements about Sanatan Dharma, his mother was worshipping in a temple. Sanatan Dharma has deep roots. Anyone who challenges this religion will end up in the dustbin of history, he said. Kumar was in Indore of BJP-governed Madhya Pradesh to participate in a VHP event, Shaurya Jagran Yatra. Assembly elections in MP are due in a few months. In his address before this march, the VHP leader challenged the INDIA bloc and Stalin, saying his organisation was ready for a democratic war for Sanatan Dharma. Sanatan Dharma endured the atrocities of the Mughals for 800 years and the conspiracies of the vicious British for 200 years. The rule of the Mughals and the British ended long ago, but Sanatan Dharma is alive, he said. Kumar also claimed that Lord Rams temple will be inaugurated in Ayodhya during the third week of January next year. Last time Lord Ram returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. This time, he will return to Ayodhya after 500 years. The Hindu community across the world will celebrate the inauguration of the temple, he said. Prime Minister Narendra while addressing the media ahead of the five-day Parliament special session requested the opposition to keep its rona dhona (complaints, cribbing) aside and give time to the short but big-on-occasion session. He said that this session of the Parliament is that of historic decisions. PM Modi said, I request all MPsthe session is shortbut give your time rone dhone ke liye aur bhi bahut samay hai (There is plenty of time to crib and complaint). PM Modi highlighted the successful launch of Chandrayaan-3 and said that the Tricolour is flying on the moon, adding that, Shivshakti and Tiranga point are filling the nation with pride. He further said that such a success is associated with scientific advancements of the nation and also opens new door of opportunities. He noted the unprecedented success of Indias G20 presidency and said that the G20 meeting was held at 50 locations. This shows the federal structure and it celebrated Indias diversity, we became the voice of global South, PM Modi added. While G20 was a celebration of diversity, it also became a proof of Indias bright future with the inclusion of African Union (AU) as a permanent member in the G20 group and the achievement of a joint declaration. Noting the inauguration of YashoBhoomi convention centre, the prime minister said that there is new confidence in the nation. Ye satra chota hai par bahut mulyawan hai (Though this session is short, it is very impactful), PM Modi said, this session is of historical decisions. The prime minister said, We will make India a developed country by 2047, adding that, There will be no hindrance in Indias development. The prime minister said that all decisions for the goal of making India a developed country will be taken in the new Parliament. All dreams of new India will be fulfilled now, PM Modi concluded. The five-day special session was announced on August 31 by Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi. The Centre is set to table eight bills for passage during the session. Meanwhile, several parties including from the ruling and opposition sides made a strong pitch for tabling and passage of the womens reservation bill. The session that began on Monday will be shifted to the new Parliament building on September 19, on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi and will conclude on September 22. PM Modi hoped that everyone will shed the shortcomings and carry the goodness as they move into the new building of Parliament. (With inputs from PTI) Plucking flowers might not be considered a good habit, a lesson ingrained in us since childhood. However, when individuals encounter the allure of beautifully arranged public flowers, self-interest often takes precedence. Consequently, authorities frequently find themselves compelled to issue warnings against flower plucking, making such notices a common sight. However, a recent encounter with one such warning sign by a user named X was anything but ordinary. In fact, it added a rather eerie twist to the act of flower-plucking, which is sure to wipe the smile off your face! On the micro-blogging site, a user with the handle @KismiBar shared a picture that featured a warning sign nestled among a row of flowers. The sign read, Please do not pluck flowerswe are watching!!! If caught smiling while plucking flowersyou will be fined INR 500/-. Also Read: Aakash Institutes Valentines Day Notice to Find a Date Goes Viral, But its Fake The image was accompanied by the caption, The creepiest notice board ever!! Indeed, it lives up to its description! Check Viral Pic: However, it appears that Bengaluru has a penchant for such peculiar warning signs. Not long ago, a similarly rule-laden notice was spotted in a Bengaluru park. According to this sign, which was installed by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), park visitors were prohibited from jogging or running within the park premises. The sign seemed quite ordinary until one noticed the third rule, which stated, No Anti-clockwise walking. Anti-clockwise walking, when applied to parks and circular pathways, involves walking in the opposite direction, potentially causing disruptions and accidental collisions. The sign, it seemed, was encouraging people to walk in a single direction. This image of the sign found its way to Reddit, where the user who shared it captioned it as Sign I encountered in a park today. Soon, people began posing humourous questions in relation to the sign. Many were curious about the definition of anti-clockwise walking and why it was prohibited. Read More: Parks Bizarre No Anti-clockwise Walking Warning Sign is Peak Bengaluru Bengaluru is undoubtedly a city that likes to keep things uncommon, and these instances are just another petal in the bouquet of its quirks! How would you feel if you suddenly found yourself a millionaire? For most people, it is a dream that seems too far-fetched to ever become a reality. The idea of amassing a fortune typically involves years of hard work and dedication. However, there are rare instances where fate takes a surprising turn, and individuals find themselves thrust into the world of millionaires without lifting a finger. This is exactly what happened with a teenage boy from Northern Ireland. Such is the extraordinary story of Dane Gillespie, an 18-year-old teenager who accidentally became a millionaire overnight, because of a banking error that deposited a staggering 8.9 million (approx. INR 92 crores) into his account. Danes unexpected fortune began when he cashed an 8,900 (approx. INR 9.18 lakhs) cheque from his grandmother. Little did he know that a simple banking transaction would lead to a life-altering revelation. When he checked his account balance, he was met with a jaw-dropping sight a sum that most people can only dream of. The shockwaves of this incredible error rippled through Danes family, with his mother, Caroline, describing her astonishment upon seeing the screenshot of her sons bank balance. We couldnt believe it, Caroline recounted. My son thought he was a millionaire for a few hours. There was 8.9 million in his account on Wednesday morning. Its as well he told us and didnt go and blow it all. Hes only 18. He got a cheque from his grandmother for 8,900 and put the cheque in last Thursday, she told The Mirror. Caroline further said that she even had to advise her son to buy a Porsche with the newfound wealth. For an 18-year-old being a millionaire for the day, he just cant believe it. He just wanted to go out and spend, but if you do then you have to pay it back. He thought all his birthdays came at once this morning. Its mad Caroline told The Mirror. However, the joy of being a millionaire for the teenager proved to be short-lived. The bank soon identified the mistake and took corrective action by adjusting Danes account balance. Despite this, Dans mother reportedly says that the incident has left Dane with a remarkable story to tell a tale of being a millionaire, even if it lasted just a few hours. The Russian Ministry of Defenses (MoD) effort to subsume the Wagner Group is prompting Russian officials to more openly back military juntas in West Africa, according to the analytical review of the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) for September 17. A Russian military delegation, including Russian Deputy Defense Minister Yunus-Bek Yevkurov and Main Military Intelligence Directorate (GRU) General Andrei Averyanov, arrived in Bamako, Mali on September 16. Yevkurov reportedly met with the Burkinabe, Nigerien, and Malian defense ministers; Malian junta head Assimi Goita; and Burkinabe junta head Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba. Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso signed a security pact on September 16 promising to come to each other's aid in the case of any rebellion or external aggression. The Russian military delegations meeting with the political and military leadership of the three junta governments before the signing of the agreement likely indicates that Russian officials are prepared to more explicitly support these juntas, the report reads. According to ISW, Russia has previously used the Wagner Group to forge relationships with the junta governments, but the Russian MoDs efforts to subsume Wagners assets and operations in West Africa have eliminated the implausible deniability that Wagner previously afforded the Russia government. Yevkurov and Averyanov appear to be heavily involved in the efforts to subsume Wagner, and their participation in the delegation suggests that they are likely using to the seizure of Wagner assets and operations to forge new agreements and partnerships with the junta governments, the analysts say. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has urged a shift in perspective that the West is the bad guy in global trade, saying it was not flooding Asian and African markets with goods on a massive scale and that there was a need to get over the syndrome of seeing it in a negative way. It is not the West which is flooding Asia and Africa with goods on a massive scale. I think we need to get over the syndrome of the past that the West is the bad guy and on the other side are the developing countries. The world is more complicated, the problems are much more complicated than that, the minister said in an interview with the Malayalam news channel Asianet on Sunday. When asked whether Chinese President Xi Jinping did not attend the G20 summit in New Delhi, Jaishankar said the reasons were up for speculation. He said the issue today was the building up of a strong sense, over the last 15-20 years, over the inequities of globalisation where countries saw their products, manufacturing and employment come under stress due to their markets being flooded by cheap goods. The external affairs minister said this underlying resentment and pain of those countries regarding the global economy was building up for the last 15-20 years and the Covid-19 pandemic and the Ukraine conflict resulted in prices of energy and food items going up. He made it clear that he was not batting for the West and said that in todays globalisation there was a concentration of manufacturing that was being leveraged and subsidised and was affecting economies of various nations. However, Indias manufacturing, agriculture, scientific achievement like the Chandrayaan-3 mission, ability to vaccinate, etc all of that has created a sense among the Global South, which includes the African Union, that one of us has the ability to stand, grow and progress. So they identify with us in a way that they do not with other people, Jaishankar said. The minister also spoke about the achievements of the G20 Summit under the Indian presidency and the threat posed by the political space given by Canada to the Khalistan group. He said that some of the major achievements of the G20 Summit under the Indian presidency was that India was able to get the influential group of nations back on the track of growth and development and also focus on the Global South initiative. In addition to that, the country was also able to do diplomacy in a different way and through the summit created a greater interest in the nation about the Baltic, he said. India was a different country now with a different level of confidence and a different leadership and the manner in which G20 was conducted has only benefited the nation, Jaishankar said. He added that the G20 summit in New Delhi showed that the agenda does not have to be decided by the West or by the P5 or by a narrow one or two countries and that India too can shape it. Voice of the Global South (summit) and bringing 125 nations together, we straightaway shaped the agenda, he said. At the same time, he said, the Global South was not a new world order or a definition and India was not claiming to be its leader. My most truthful answer is that the Global South is not a definition, but a feeling. It is a feeling of solidarity, a willingness to put yourself out, he said, adding that those who are part of it know it and those who are not also know it. World leaders at the two-day G20 Summit in New Delhi recently had hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his decisive leadership and for championing the voice of the Global South. He also welcomed the proposed economic corridor with India at one end and Europe at the other and which passes through the Middle East making it easier for people from here to go there for job opportunities. While speaking about people migrating abroad for jobs, he touched upon the issue of the Khalistan groups activities in Canada and its effect on Indias relations with that country. He said the problem arises when, for whatever reason, such countries give space in their politics for activities of such groups. The minister said there were compulsions in politics, but everybody, especially in a democracy, must temper that with a larger sense of responsibility to the world as well as a sense of responsibility to their own image and their own well being. Forget us for the moment. You know the kind of force involved in all of this. They are not good for the country where all of this will happen. Today it is Canada, it could be something else tomorrow. We are focusing on generating that appreciation, he said. On how India managed to not get Russia blamed for the Ukraine conflict in the G20 declaration, Jaishankar said, Everybody compromised. There was a lot of give and take, he added. He said what happened in the Bali Summit of G20, where Russia was blamed, could not be repeated in India and at the same time the clock could not be stopped there. This is New Delhi. So the New Delhi outcome had to be forged, he said. He also said that in the G20 India was able to focus on the Global South in terms of phrases, agenda, outcome and the African Unions membership for which Prime Minister Narendra Modi really stuck his neck out. (With PTI input) Frances newly appointed Ambassador to India has arrived in New Delhi from Bangkok to assume his new role during what he described as an exceptional time for the relationship between the two countries. Mathou is replacing Ambassador Emmanuel Lenain, who served in India for four years. In a statement, Ambassador-designate Thierry Mathou said his arrival coincides with a pivotal moment in the relationship between Paris and New Delhi, underlining that France has embraced Indias vision of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam One Earth, One Family, One Future. As I just arrived in New Delhi from Bangkok to take my new assignment as Ambassador of France to India, I want to tell you how happy and proud I am to be in India, a country I have been visiting so many times since my first trip here more than forty years ago, a country once described by Jules Michelet, a famous French historian from the 19th Century as the matrix of the world, the French envoy said in a statement. Today, the Embassy welcomes the new ambassador-designate of France to India, Mr Thierry Mathou. Read his message on the significance of the strategic partnership and his ambition for taking it forward across all areas:https://t.co/0zPRaBOfIh French Embassy in India (@FranceinIndia) September 18, 2023 Mathou said this year is not only an opportunity to celebrate the length and depth of India-France ties but also the moment that has been chosen to look towards the future by setting the course of the partnership for the next 25 years up to 2047. The French ambassador said that his role is now to implement with determination and ambition for the India-France partnership the roadmap adopted by the countrys leaders. Ambassador Mathou emphasised the concrete nature of these partnerships, ranging from scientific collaborations and technological advancements to healthcare improvements and cultural exchanges. He expressed his eagerness to work closely with Indian authorities and civil society to transform the shared vision of leaders into action, promoting the common values of liberty, equality, and democracy. Earlier this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in New Delhi. Macrons visit to India was a follow-up to PM Modis trip to Paris in July as the Guest of Honour on the occasion of French National Day. In the last meeting in New Delhi over lunch, the two leaders reviewed bilateral relations, particularly in the context of the Horizon 2047 Roadmap and the Indo-Pacific Roadmap. They also exchanged views on important international and regional developments, including on the Indo-Pacific region and stressed the need for reformed multilateralism. There will be no meeting of SAARC foreign ministers once again on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly Annual Session, from September 18 to September 26. The last meeting of the SAARC foreign ministers was held in 2019. Nepal, which is the current chair of the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) had called an informal meeting of SAARC Council of Ministers on September 20 in New York to revive the process, according to the Kathmandu Post. India is also keen to tackle the SAARC situation diplomatically and not give much handle to Pakistan. India is clear that Pakistan is spreading terror and it should stop that completely, according to sources. Pakistan has boycotted the SAARC meetings since the abrogation of Article 370 in Kashmir in 2019. External affairs minister S Jaishankar had a couple of months ago slammed Pakistan while being asked a question on SAARC meetings. He said India cannot hold the meeting when one member of the group engages in acts of terror. You have not heard very much about SAARC because, in the last few years, there isnt very much to hear about. We have not had meetings because you have a member of SAARC who doesnt conform to all the basic requirements of what a good membership is, and that is today an obstacle reality for the SAARC to meet. You know I said we cannot continue with acts of terrorism and say the cooperation will continue to happen nevertheless, he was quoted as saying by ANI. India had expressed its inability to attend the SAARC summit following the terror attack on an Indian Army camp in Uri on September 18, 2016. The summit was eventually called off after Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Afghanistan also declined to participate in it. SAARC comprises India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka. This, however, is not the first time Jaishankar blamed Pakistan for the inactivity of SAARC. The Pakistani Army and terror outfits need jihad against India not for Islam, but to maintain their high-profile lifestyle and sponsor the education of their children abroad, according to intelligence sources from India. ALSO READ | Pak-based Lashkar-e-Taibas Compulsion to Carry Out Jihad in Kashmir | All You Need to Know Jihad and non-state actors complement each other. Generals need jihadis and jihadis need Generals for their lifestyle. The lifestyle of the so-called terror group chiefs show they are doing it for their personal good. Islam has nothing to do with it," said sources. Taking note of this, even those from the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan want the Indian government to merge them, they added. The day a poor man from south Punjab hands over his son to a religious leader, he knows he will never be able to meet him. A child is sold to a jihadi for Rs30,000-40,000. Imagine the business return to these jihadi groups and Army," sources added. RELIGION WITH NATIONALISM, KASHMIR ANGLE Sources say Pakistan has serious foundation problems as a state, and to overcome those, they needed an easily saleable concept, which started with Kashmir. From day one, soldiers are told that Indian forces are kafirs (traitors), mixing religion with nationalism." ALSO READ | Opinion | How Does Pakistan Still Have the Funds to Sponsor Terror Against India? All prominent Pakistan Army Generals, from Muhammad Ayub Khan and Tikka Khan to Yahya Khan, exploited the religious element in their rhetoric against India and Indian soldiers. Zia ul Haq created an Army close to West, but Islamist in ideology. Haq wanted civilians to be involved in the jihad and that started mix of army and civilian non-state actors. They needed each other. A percentage is recruited to the army in one form or another. To show they have control, the top leadership of the army pushes these cadres to different areas. One prominent area is Kashmir where they push through the Line of Control (LoC)," said sources. MANI-FOLD RETURNS: MORE FREE CADRE & FOREIGN MONEY In this case, the returns are multi-fold. If they are able to push 10 people and all of them die, they become martyrs and big events take place back home. This attracts more free cadre to carry out more attacks or works in other parts of the world. Against this, they get more zakat (donations) during Ramazan and that money is for the personal use of top leadership of the Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Hizbul in Pakistan," they said. ALSO READ | Pak Journalist Seeks Probe into Unexplained Wealth And Assets of Ex-army Chief Bajwa | Exclusive Lashkar has almost 70 big properties in the name of Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) in South Punjab and similar is the case with JeM. Reports published in the past about killing of Chinese workers in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) are nothing, but a work of Pakistani Generals. They then get more money from the Chinese for security," sources said. TERROR TO ARMY CHIEFS: CARS, BUNGALOWS AND THE DREAM LIFE No Pakistani General has stayed in the country for long, be it Parvez Musharraf, Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief Lieutenant General Ahmad Shuja Pasha or Lieutenant General Asim Bajwa. Bajwas immediate and extended family members, in a matter of few years, started a new business, and became owners of farmhouses in prominent Pakistani cities and bought foreign properties, making billions of dollars in the process. Pasha was questioned for investments abroad. Musharraf and Kayani are staying abroad, while Bajwa is hardly seen in Pakistan after retirement. For instance, Lashkar chief Hafiz Saeeds son-in-law is a known property grabber from South Punjab and any property which goes for renovation is captured by him or he demands a cut. In good times, Saeed used to make 30 million USD per year from donations and a huge chunk used to go to many Army officials to help him out. Lashkars Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi, Sajid Mir and JeMs Rauf Asghar are living comfortably in Rawalpindi and Bahawalpur. Their cars are worth Rs 4-5 crore in Pakistani rupees with a convoy of 20 cars in their cadre. The Pakistani Army knows that unless they have a cult figure, they cant get fighters and money for jihad," sources added. ALSO READ | LeT Chief Hafiz Saeeds Assassination Attempt in Lahore Exposes Pakistans Vanishing Jihadi Magic Trick All of this is possible only if they have a motivated cadre who can carry out attacks and keep the army relevant, despite attacks from all corners of society," sources said. A free army of non-state actors is left in the market and to control them, the Generals take money from foreign countries. China is one of the major contributors paying a huge retainer fee to Pakistani Generals, said sources. Taiwans defence ministry said on Monday it had detected 103 Chinese warplanes around the island in a 24-hour period. Between the morning of September 17th to 18th, the Ministry of National Defence had detected a total of 103 Chinese aircraft which was a recent high and has posed severe challenges to the security across the Taiwan Strait and in the region, the ministry said in a statement. This latest military aggression comes as Beijing continues to claim the self-ruled island as its own territory that it vows to seize one day, by force if necessary. Under Xi Jinpings leadership, Beijing has intensified diplomatic and military pressure in recent years as ties have soured with Taipei. China regularly sends planes over waters south and west of Taiwan. The islands Defense Ministry said that 40 of the planes detected Sunday and early Monday crossed the symbolic median line between Taiwan and mainland China. Taiwans defence ministry stressed that peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are linked to the security, prosperity and well-being of the Indo-Pacific region and are the common responsibility of all parties in the region. The ongoing military harassment by the Communist Party is likely to lead to a sharp escalation of tensions and worsening regional security, and calls on Beijing to shoulder its responsibilities and immediately cease such destructive unilateral actions, the statement added. Last week, Taipei reported an increased number of incursions by Chinese warplanes and ships, after Beijing said its troops were on high alert amid tensions in the Taiwan Strait. Earlier in April, Beijing conducted military exercises to simulate the encirclement of the island, after Taiwans President Tsai Ing-wen met US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy during a visit to California. (With agency inputs) The UN has revised its previous death toll from the floods in Libya, according to a revised report updated on Sunday morning. It is now stated that at least 3,958 people have died due to flooding, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The revised report by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) also states that more than 9,000 people are still missing. Earlier, OCHA said at least 11,300 people were dead in Derna, due to devastating flooding. The UN body cited the Libyan Red Crescent with the figures for the previous report. Were going with figures just verified by WHO, Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesman for the UN Secretary-General, told CNN on Sunday. On Sunday, the Libyan Red Crescent Society said that it never released the high death figure tolls to the UN from flooding in Derna. When asked how or why the UN cited the death toll incorrectly, Haq said, in a lot of different tragedies we end up revising our numbers. So thats just whats happening here. Standard procedure is we work with different parties trying to make sure our numbers are cross-checked. Whenever we do these revisions its because our numbers are being cross-checked, Haq explained. The deputy spokesperson said the numbers for the death toll are fluid, it can go upward or downward. Two dams above Derna burst early Monday under the pressure from rain dropped by a storm. The pent-up water swept blocks of low-lying downtown Derna out to the Mediterranean Sea. Many said they heard loud explosions as the dams exploded. A flood several meters high rolled down a mountainside into the city. Images made about 400 miles above the earths surface show that the storm left a brown layer of mud and dirt across the city. Untold numbers are buried under mud and debris includes overturned cars and chunks of concrete. The floods have displaced at least 30,000 people in Derna, according to the U.N.s International Organization for Migration. Like war-torn Syria, Libya has been through its own years of conflict. The oil-rich North African country has been split between rival governments in the east and west since 2014, backed by with various militia forces and international patrons. Derna is governed by Libyas eastern administration, where military commander Khalifa Hiftar wields significant power. (With agency inputs) The United Nations nuclear watchdog on Saturday condemned the disproportionate and unprecedented move by Iran to withdraw accreditation from several of its most experienced inspectors. Irans foreign ministry said in response that the move was in retaliation for political abuses by the United States, France, Germany and Britain. But IAEA director general Rafael Grossi said that this would seriously hamper the ability of the International Atomic Energy Agency to carry out its work. Today, the Islamic Republic of Iran informed me of its decision to withdraw the designation of several experienced Agency inspectors assigned to conduct verification activities in Iran under an existing agreement, said Grossi. This follows a previous recent withdrawal of the designation of another experienced Agency inspector for Iran, his statement added. With todays decision, Iran has effectively removed about one third of the core group of the Agencys most experienced inspectors designated for Iran, said Grossi. In 2015, major world powers reached a deal with Iran under which Tehran would curb its nuclear programme in exchange for relief from crippling economic sanctions. But that started to unravel in 2018 when then US president Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from the deal and reimposed sanctions. Tehran in turn stepped up its nuclear programme while continuing to deny it harbours ambitions of developing a nuclear weapons capability. Efforts to revive the deal have been fruitless so far. Arrogance The United States and the so-called E3 group France, Germany and the United Kingdom are threatening to call for a new resolution against Tehran at an IAEA board meeting. Iran persists in its deliberate refusal to engage earnestly with the Agency, the US and E3 group said in a midweek joint statement. If Iran did not fully abide by its obligations the Board would have to be prepared to take further action to support its Secretariat and hold Iran accountable, they added. Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani responded to the IAEA statement Saturday. Three European countries and the United States abused the space of the (IAEAs) Council of Governors for their own political purposes with arrogance and with the aim of destroying the atmosphere of cooperation. Of course, the Islamic Republic of Iran will continue its positive cooperation within the framework of the agreements made, emphasizing the necessity of the agencys neutrality, he added. In his statement Saturday, Grossi said the experts affected had unique knowledge in enrichment technology and had previously conducted essential verification work at Iranian enrichment facilities under IAEA safeguards. While the move was formally permitted under an existing agreement, Iran had done it in a manner that affects in a direct and severe way the ability of the IAEA to conduct effectively its inspections in Iran, said Grossi. I strongly condemn this disproportionate and unprecedented unilateral measure which affects the normal planning and conduct of Agency verification activities in Iran and openly contradicts the cooperation that should exist between the Agency and Iran, he added Without effective cooperation from Tehran, the agency would not be able to provide credible assurances that nuclear material and activities in Iran are for peaceful purposes, Grossi stressed. U.S. Senator from Arizona Mark Kelly (Democratic Party), during his visit to Kyiv, said that Ukraine had made progress in the counteroffensive and is confident that progress will continue. Kelly said at a briefing in Kyiv on Monday that he thinks that the Ukrainian military are doing a fantastic job in incredibly difficult circumstances against one of the largest armies in the world. According to him, the initial stage of this counteroffensive is good. There is a certain progress which will continue to his mind. Answering a question about whether he believes that the provision of F-16 aircraft and ATACMS will become a game-changing on the battlefield, the senator said that there is something that can be called a panacea. Kelly noted that longer-range surface-to-surface missile system can definitely change the situation, a fourth-generation fighter aircraft operated by well-trained people and well-serviced by a crew on the ground can change the situation when combining these two things together. At the same time, he expressed confidence that the Ukrainian people will succeed thanks to the right decisions of the government and the help of partners. Speaking about the likely timing of the transfer of ATACMS to Ukraine, he noted that this will be the decision of the Biden administration. In addition, Kelly said that as part of his visit to Ukraine, he will meet today with friends and colleagues of the deceased pilot Andriy Pilschykov with the call sign Juice. The senator said that he tragically died a few weeks ago as a result of the L-39 crash. Kelly told that he met with him in his Senate office in Washington, DC last year where they discussed what was in operation in Andriys brigade, that he was flying the MiG-29 to fight against the Russian Air Force, and what they need in the future. According to him, in the near future the United States is going to start training F-16 pilots in Arizona and, in particular, in Tucson, where he lives. As Kelly noted: The F-16 is an aircraft with quite a lot of capabilities that can change the situation. At the same time, the senator stressed that we wouldnt see F-16s in the sky over Ukraine next week or next month. According to Kelly, it will take months to train the team, but he believes that this is a new and significant potential. According to Kelly, he and the ambassador also met with the border patrol. He is alsogoing to meet with Ukrainian veterans later. Kelly said that its not right to allow Putin and his henchmen to succeed as this would be a colossal mistake on the part of the West. This is Kelly's second visit to Ukraine, the first time he was here in April. Exclusive nterview of a retired special agent of the US military intelligence, a veteran of the war in Iraq and a geopolitical analyst, David Debatto, to the agency "Interfax-Ukraine" 18 months have passed since Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine. During this time, Ukraine proved that it can stand up to the Russian army, which called itself "the second in the world." How do you assess the operations carried out by the Ukrainian special services during this time and do you feel progress in their professionalism and desire for the victory of Ukraine? The actions of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, and by extension, the Ukrainian Special Services, has been nothing short of extraordinary. At the risk of seeming arrogant, I am one of the few Western analysts that have not been surprised by the performance of Ukrainian forces since 24 February 2022. I had visited Ukraine several times between Independence in 1991 and the first Russian invasion in 2014, so I was somewhat familiar with the training and motivation of Ukrainian soldiers as well as the spirit of patriotism within the Ukrainian people. I had developed friendships with several Ukrainians during that time and still maintain those relationships. Of course, since the full-scale invasion in February 2022 Ukraine has received a lot of foreign aid for the military and intelligence services, to include advanced training in combined arms operations. The nation has also been the recipient of far more detailed intelligence and intelligence gathering equipment from the U.S. and other NATO allies, intelligence that has greatly assisted Ukraine in both planning military and intelligence operations, and targeting Russian force concentrations, as well as command and control and logistical centers. As for singling out Ukrainian Special Services and their performance thus far, I can say unequivocally that they have shown the entire world their unparalleled spirit, iron will, courage, flexibility, and unique inventiveness in planning and then attacking Russian assets in both covert and overt operations. Actions such as the attack on the Kerch Bridge, the many drone attacks in Russia and recently in Crimea and the Black Sea, and the complex but crucial investigations and arrests of high-level criminals and traitors among the ranks of ultra rich Oligarchs (and even some members of parliament and the judiciary), speak to the professionalism and integrity of all the agencies within the Ukrainian Special Services community. Fighting corruption, especially during wartime, is extremely important, not just for winning the war, but for winning the peace afterwards by instituting a stable democracy free of corruption, and setting Ukraine on a clear path to membership in NATO and the European Union. Their indispensable assistance in the fight against the Russian invader, and their defense of National Security and democracy through their relentless pursuit of high-level criminals and traitors in both the public and private sectors is a key part of the overall strategy for Ukrainian victory, stability post-war, and eventual integration into the Western world of nations. Ukraine is very grateful to the Western countries for their military and financial assistance in confronting the aggressor. But don't you think it's unfair the restrictions that the West puts forward to Ukraine regarding the striking of received weapons on the aggressor's territory? Why can't Ukraine defend its independence with Western weapons, as Israel does, for example? I have been very vocal with my frustration over the restrictions placed on Ukraine in defending itself against Russian forces. That frustration (and occasional anger) is especially directed at the glacial pace of the Western allies in providing Ukraine with the weapons systems and ammunition needed to win the war against Russia, not just to survive another other bloody day. I am specifically speaking about: - Modern military jet aircraft such as, but not limited to, the F16 in numbers over 100 - Long range missile systems like the ATACMS and longer range HIMARS missiles - Large numbers (200-300) of M1 tanks, Bradley Fighting Vehicles and Strykers - Sufficient numbers of combat engineering and mine clearing vehicles - Several squadrons of attack helicopters If NATO were truly interested in supporting Ukraine to win the war and defeat Russia, they would have supplied all of the above (and more) already. Obviously, they are not interested in Ukraine winning the war, but merely fighting Russia to a stalemate with neither side becoming the winner or loser, but simply being bled to death. In that scenario, Ukraine is at a distinct disadvantage since it has a much smaller population. It is an unconscionable and dangerous game being played by the West for not ensuring a Ukrainian victory and a Russian defeat. It is truly Western cowardice and hypocrisy when telling Ukraine not to defend itself by attacking the very locations inside Russia that are launching continuous deadly attacks on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. If the situation were reversed, would NATO countries not respond in kind to attacks launched against their cities and infrastructure from locations inside Russia? Would Ukraine tell them not to defend themselves as NATO is now ordering Ukraine to do? I doubt that very much. Do you not think, as a counterintelligence officer with vast experience, that the EU and US special services pay too little attention to such a real Russian threat as bribing the establishment of Western countries, financing them and helping them gain power. Some of these politicians, after their resignation, take up prestigious positions in financial structures affiliated with the Kremlin, or even come to live or visit the Russian Federation. But the governments in which they worked do not draw conclusions from this. This question perhaps gets to the core of the issue more than almost any other. As many know, several high-level leaders in Europe in both the public and private sectors have had very lucrative contracts and even employment with Russian businesses, some closely connected to the Kremlin. Germany in particular has had this obvious conflict for many years, with Chancellors, members of parliament and regional officials receiving large financial benefits from consulting contracts with Russian companies, most notoriously, Gazprom, the state-controlled energy company. However, well placed government and business leaders in several EU nations have also held positions on the boards of large Russian multinational companies for years and have expressed a both sides attitude when it came to taking a stand on Russian aggression. Two examples of this abhorrent behavior are former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroder and ex-chancellor of Austria, Wolfgang Schussel. When asked about the 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Schroder stated that there were many mistakes on both sides. When presented with the same question, Schussel said he saw no reason to quit his position on the board of the Lukoil, a Russian multinational company. Disgraceful. That dangerous and cozy relationship got to the point that Germany was almost within just hours of approving the final connection of Nord Stream 2, a decision which would have completed the total acquiescence of Germany to be subservient to Russia for almost all of their energy needs for the foreseeable future, slaves to Russian foreign policy. Based on those facts is it any wonder that the West made no real moves to counter Russia aggression in 2008 in Georgia, in Ukraine in 2014, or again in Ukraine prior to the full-scale invasion in 2022? Is it any wonder that the West is not seriously trying to help Ukraine win the war and ensure that Russia lose? Is it any wonder NATO and the EU want to do just enough to appease Ukrainian leaders and make it appear they support Ukraine for as long as it takes, but not to do so much that they truly offend the Kremlin? To me and many others it is obvious what is going on and we dont like it one bit. Western political cowardice and lucrative business relationships are being paid for with Ukrainian blood and treasure every day. The very existence of the Ukrainian state as an independent and sovereign nation is at stake, and these Western leaders are still being cautious so as not to make Putin believe this is a real war with NATO, but rather that it is a war he can win if he just waits until the West gets tired of supporting Ukraine, or after a Republican victory in 2024, which will essentially amount to the same thing. Either way, the political cowardice, unethical and hypocritical business relationships with the Kremlin, and lack of vision and courage of NATO and the EU for their repeated failure to decisively confront Russian aggression in Georgia and Ukraine is a dangerous and disgraceful precedent setting display. Believe me, this Western inaction will have far reaching, long term negative consequences for Europe. A businessman aligned with the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party has been fined by a Harare magistrate for allegedly assaulting a Zanu PF supporter. According to the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum (the Forum), on September 13, 2023, Ngwaru Masadza (49), a businessman from Mt Hampden, was convicted of two charges of assault and a third count of ripping a political poster of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, for an incident that took place on July 30, 2023. Masadza was arraigned before Harare Magistrate Yeukai Dzuda for assaulting Vimbayi Kahondo, a Zanu PF member. He was represented by Noble Chinhanu, of the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum. A businessman from Mt Hampden aligned to CCC, Ngwaru Masadza (49) has been ordered to pay a fine of US$50 or spend 20 days in prison for assaulting a Zanu PF supporter, Vimbayi Kahondo, said the Forum in a statement. The Forum said Masadza was sentenced on September 16, 2023, following his conviction by Magistrate Dzuda for assaulting Kahondo. It was alleged that on July 30, 2023, 40 Zanu PF supporters ordered Masadza to close his shop and attend their rally. When Masadza refused, the Zanu PF supporters forcibly closed the door of the shop with him and his wife still inside. Masadza tried to open the door and Kahondo, who was standing behind the door, fell, said the human rights organisation. Kahondo reported Masadza to the police, leading to his arrest. Whilst the Court found him not guilty of one count of assault and of tearing a political poster, he was found guilty of assaulting Kahondo. Magistrate Dzuda ruled Masadza had opened the door well knowing that doing so had the risk of hurting the complainant who was behind the door and therefore he was guilty of assault, said the Forum. CITE PRESIDENT Mnangagwa last night left Harare for the 78th Ordinary Session of the United Nations General Assembly, where he will join other global leaders at the New York conference set to start today. The 78th General Assembly Ordinary Session comes soon after the beginning of President Mnangagwas second term following his resounding victory in the August 23 and 24 harmonised elections. The UN Secretary General, Mr Antonio Guterres, recently congratulated President Mnangagwa for winning the Presidential election and undertook to work closely with the Zimbabwean Government to accelerate development and ensure inclusive and sustainable growth. In his congratulatory message, Mr Guterres said he appreciated the Governments efforts to enhance the participation of women in national governance. I wish to congratulate you on your re-election as President of the Republic of Zimbabwe. I look forward to the continued co-operation between Zimbabwe and the United Nations in the ongoing implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Co-operation Framework 2022-26 in order to accelerate development and ensure inclusive and sustainable economic growth, gender equality, human rights and climate action in Zimbabwe, he said. Mr Guterres took the opportunity to also acknowledge the efforts of Zimbabwe to advance the political participation of women and encouraged President Mnangagwa to promote gender parity in his Government. The President, who is expected to address the General Assembly on Thursday (September 21), has made engagement and re-engagement with the international community one of the pillars of his transformation agenda that seeks to make Zimbabwe a middle-income society by 2030. While in New York, the Head of State and Government is also expected to hold bilateral talks with fellow leaders as well as engage business interest groups as part of the drive to woo investors to the country. This years General Assembly debate theme is: Rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity: Accelerating action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals towards peace, prosperity, progress and sustainability for all. This dovetails with President Mnangagwas calls at home to foster peace, economic equity and development that leaves no one and no place behind. The President was seen off at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport by Vice Presidents Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi, Cabinet ministers and service chiefs. Herald TOURISM industry players have up to end of next month to regularise their operations in terms of foreign agreements and offshore accounts or face penalties by the central bank as nearly half of the operators are said to be flouting the laws. The deadline is an extension from the initial August 31 cut-off that was issued through the Monetary Policy Statement where the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) directed that tourism operators regularise their foreign agreements and offshore accounts. Many players in the sector operate offshore accounts in different countries and are legally expected to declare those funds within 90 days of business after which the funds are classified as externalised funds. The players also enter into tourism agreements with international partners such as travel agents and these agreements should be lodged with the RBZ for monitoring of business and flow of funds. It has, however, emerged that most tourism players are not doing that hence the RBZ has made the directive, which has been extended to October 31, after it emerged through engagements with the Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe (TBCZ) that many of the tourism players were not aware of the requirements. Tourism is one of the major foreign currency earners in the country contributing immensely to the national Gross Domestic Product but there are fears that the sector could be under remitting because of lack of updated statistics on the central bank end as a result of lack of compliance. RBZ and TBCZ are conducting workshops to train tourism operators on exchange control policies and administration of offshore accounts and tourism agreements. The sessions have been done in Harare and Bulawayo and yesterday it was in Victoria Falls. There are about 1 726 registered tourism facilities in the country and that includes restaurants, guest houses, travel agents, hotels, tour operators and hunting operations. Of these, those registered for TRAS1, a form used by RBZ to monitor operations and for submission in the non-consumptive sector are only 828, making 52 percent of the total. This means that 48 percent of tourism operators are not registered with the RBZ and, therefore, not compliant. The reason for non-compliance, according RBZ principal analyst Mr Godfrey Chokwa, is that some are not aware, some are new and others do not want to comply. The RBZ has set up a tourism desk to monitor compliance and gather statistics, which is crucial in policy formulation and calculation of Gross Domestic Product. As the RBZ our role is to fully account for the revenue that is generated from the tourism sector. So, in this regard, as a bank we have come up with instruments that we use to collect statistics and we have what we call a Form TRAS1 introduced to account for earnings in the tourism sector but as a bank we are really worried in terms of the statistics that we are getting from the tourism sector, which currently stands below 50 percent, said Mr Chokwa. This results in underreporting of figures that we have as a country in terms of contribution of the tourism sector. So, this engagement is to ensure that we bring everyone on board in terms of the requirements and expectations of the bank in terms of submitting statistics. Without statistics we will not be able to come up with effective policy formulation. Mr Chokwa said their thrust was to bring on board all players to register for submission of reports and compliance with set requirements. He said it is a requirement in terms of regulations that all designated tourism facilities submit information regarding their earnings from both foreign and domestic tourism as well as employment statistics. They are supposed to do that on a monthly basis before the 15th. They submit to the Reserve Bank their domestic and foreign earnings for statistical purposes compilation of GDP, balance of payments and also for effective policy formulation, said Mr Chokwa. We have been engaging tourism operators and we started in Harare, Bulawayo and now Victoria Falls as the Exchange Control is calling upon operators to self-regulate, do the needful and submit returns. This is not a witch-hunt and we are saying those that have been operating should come and regularise and going forward we would have to register as and when we consummate them. He said tourism operators, because of the nature of their business, have offshore foreign currency accounts that they open outside the country. They also have tourism agreements. So, the issue is that they are supposed to register all their agreements and offshore accounts so that we are aware of the business that they are doing, said Mr Chokwa. The monetary policy statement had given them up to 31 August to regularise the deadline, which has been extended to 31 October. After 31 October the bank will sit down with all tourism stakeholders and for those not fully compliant the bank will take measures. Meanwhile, the operators have pledged to regularise as they also raised concerns about some policy gaps. TBCZ president Mr Wengayi Nhau said between now and 31 October consultations will continue while operators regularise for the industry to be fully compliant. We are following up on the latest monetary policy review where tourism operators were called upon by RBZ to regularise their contractual agreements with different suppliers outside Zimbabwe, as well as issue of operation of offshore accounts that may exist in some of the operations, he said. RBZ expected us to regularise by the 31st of August and then as a big industry spread across the country we reached out and agreed that maybe before we expect everyone to comply, we first interrogate why operators are not compliant and found that some are not aware of the requirements hence this exercise where the RBZ is going around the country to the major tourism destinations by province. The major issue is to do with statistics, we want tourism to claim its rightful position in terms of contribution to national economy. Chronicle UPDATE Sep 18, 2023 5:35 PM CDT Marilyn Manson received a sentence of 20 hours of community service and a fine on Monday in connection with a 2019 assault in New Hampshire. He had pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor count after reaching a plea deal with prosecutors, the AP reports. Manson, who was accused of blowing his nose on a videographer at a concert, asked to appear on video, but the judge made him come to the courtroom in Laconia. He wore a black suit. The fine topped $1,400, $200 of which was suspended. Manson made no statement. A statement by the victim was read in court, in which she expressed the hope that "the defendant would receive a sentence that would make him think twice before doing something like this again." Jul 9, 2021 6:18 AM CDT If you've been wondering when Marilyn Manson plans to surrender to police, he already did it a week ago, without anyone noticing. The rocker, who's set to be arraigned in New Hampshire in August on assault charges, took the first step in dealing with that process by turning himself in to the Los Angeles Police Department on July 2, WMUR reports. Manson (real name Brian Warner) was given a date to appear in district court in Laconia, told not to go near the alleged victim in the interim, then released on personal recognizance bail. The 52-year-old is facing two counts of misdemeanor assault related to his August 2019 concert at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion in Gilford, where a videographer says he spit and hurled snot at her. A warrant was put out for his arrest in October of that year. Federal officials on Friday renamed a towering mountain southwest of Denver as part of a national effort to address the history of oppression and violence against Native Americans. The US Board on Geographic Names voted overwhelmingly to change Mount Evans to Mount Blue Sky at the request of the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes and with the approval of Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, the AP reports. The Arapaho were known as the Blue Sky People, while the Cheyenne hold an annual renewal-of-life ceremony called Blue Sky. The 14,264-foot peak had originally been named after John Evans, Colorado's second territorial governor and ex officio superintendent of Indian affairs. Evans resigned after Col. John Chivington led an 1864 US cavalry massacre of more than 200 Arapaho and Cheyenne peoplemost of them women, children, and the elderlyat Sand Creek in what is now southeastern Colorado. "It is a huge step, not only for the Cheyenne and Arapaho people, but also for the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, Southern Ute Tribe, Northern Arapaho Tribe, Northern Cheyenne Tribe, and other allies who worked diligently to begin the healing process, bringing honor to a monumental and majestic mountain," Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes Gov. Reggie Wassana said after Friday's vote. In recommending the change to Mount Blue Sky, Polis said Evans' culpability for the Sand Creek Massacre, tacit or explicit, "is without question." "Colonel Chivington celebrated in Denver, parading the deceased bodies through the streets while Governor Evans praised and decorated Chivington and his men for their 'valor in subduing the savages,'" Polis wrote in a Feb. 28 letter to Trent Palmer, the federal renaming board's executive secretary. Tribal leaders are now focusing their efforts on changing the name of the adjacent Mount Evans Wilderness Area to Mount Blue Sky Wilderness area, which would require congressional action. (Read more Colorado stories.) UPDATE Sep 18, 2023 7:29 AM CDT All nine teens who escaped from a juvenile detention center in Pennsylvania on Sunday have been rounded up, reports CNN. The escapees, between the ages of 15 and 17, were captured less than 3 miles from Abraxas Academy in Morgantown. Authorities say they fled amid what has been described as a riot at the facility by overpowering two prison employees and getting their keys. Four turned themselves in by knocking on the door of a house about 6am because they were tired and cold, say police, per the AP. The other five were caught a little later after police received a report of a stolen car and a "sort of pursuit" took place, says a State Police spokesperson. Sep 18, 2023 3:57 AM CDT Authorities in Pennsylvania launched a search Sunday night for nine people who escaped from a juvenile detention facility following a riot, the AP reports. The Reading division of the Pennsylvania State Police and other agencies were searching for nine juveniles who escaped from Abraxas Academy around 8pm, Pennsylvania State Police Trooper David Beohm said in a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. State and local police were called to take control of the juvenile center in Morgantown, about 49 miles northwest of Philadelphia, after the riot began inside the facility, the Caernarvon Township Police Department said in a statement on its website. UPDATE Sep 18, 2023 8:24 AM CDT Five Americans held by Iran have been freed in a prisoner swap, reports the AP. A plane with all five aboard left Tehran on Monday. Three of the Americans have previously been named, and the remaining two wished to keep their identities private. Some have been held since at least 2015, per CNN, and the US says all five were wrongfully detained. In exchange, five Iranians will be released from US prisons, and the US also freed up $6 billion in once-frozen Iranian funds. Sep 18, 2023 7:57 AM CDT Looks like Monday may be the day for the prisoner swap between the United States and Iran. "It will happen today, and five prisoners, citizens of the Islamic Republic, will be released from the prisons in the US," Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani said in a news conference shown on state TV, whose feed was "cut immediately after his remarks without explanation," per the AP. "Five imprisoned citizens who were in Iran will be given to the US side reciprocally, based on their will." Kanaani added that two of the Iranian prisoners are expected to stay in the United States. There's been no confirmation of this news from Washington. The same Ohio river valley where the Wright brothers pioneered human flight will soon be manufacturing electric planes that take off and land vertically, under an agreement announced Monday between the state and Joby Aviation Inc. Around the world, electric vertical takeoff and landing, or eVTOL, aircraft are entering the mainstream, though questions remain about noise levels and charging demands, per the AP . Still, developers say the planes are nearing the day when they will provide a wide-scale alternative to shuttle individual people or small groups from rooftops and parking garages to their destinations, while avoiding the congested thoroughfares below. Joby will locate its first scaled manufacturing facility at a 140-acre site at Dayton International Airport. Importantly, the site is near Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and the headquarters of the US Air Force Research Laboratories. The Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, lived and worked in Dayton. In 1910, they opened the first US airplane factory there. To connect the historical dots, Joby's formal announcement Monday took place at Orville Wright's home, Hawthorn Hill, and concluded with a ceremonial fly-past of a replica of the Wright Model B Flyer. Joby's aircraft is designed to transport a pilot and four passengers at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour, with a maximum range of 100 miles. The plan is to place them in aerial ridesharing networks beginning in 2025. The efforts of the California-based company are supported by partnerships with Toyota, Delta Air Lines, Intel, and Uber. The $500 million project is supported by up to $325 million in incentives from the state of Ohio and local government. Joby is a 14-year-old company that went public in 2021 and became the first eVTOL firm to receive US Air Force airworthiness certification. It plans to make 500 aircraft a year, creating 2,000 jobs. The Department of Energy has invited Joby to apply for a loan to support development of the facility as a clean energy project. (Read more Dayton, Ohio stories.) UPDATE Sep 23, 2023 7:00 AM CDT Russell Brand's professional and legal woes are mounting after claims he'd sexually assaulted multiple women emerged last week, and the comedian is now publicly speaking out for the first time since. Variety notes that Brand only hinted at the accusations against him in a video posted Friday on his YouTube channel. "Obviously, it's been an extraordinary and distressing week," Brand concedes in the clip, thanking fans for their support. After touching on the issues of "media corruption" and censorship, the 48-year-old also asks people to follow him on the right-wing social media platform Rumble. "I need your support now, more than ever. More than I ever imagined I would," he says in the video. Brand then adds: "More important than any of that is that you please, if you can, stay free." Brand's video in full here. Sep 18, 2023 3:24 PM CDT The remaining three dates on Russell Brand's standup comedy tour in the UK have been called off, days after UK news outlets reported on allegations of sexual assault against the actor and comedian. In a statement, promoters said the "Bipolarisation" tour dates, including a sold-out Tuesday show in Windsor, had been postponed, the New York Times reports. "We don't like doing itbut we know you'll understand," promoters said. Brand's management agency has cut its ties with him, and publishers Bluebird said Monday that they had "taken the decision to pause all future publishing with Russell Brand," reports the Guardian. Mowalola Ogunlesi's initial reaction to the outcry over the miniskirt bearing the Saudi Arabian flag that she showed during London Fashion Week was not contrite. "Cry me a river," said one of the Nigerian designer's posts on X, CNN reports. "A mini skirt being an act of war in 2023 is so dystopian," said another. Later, facing threats of a boycott, Ogunlesi reversed. The flag usually isn't printed on clothing because it includes sacred elements; the kingdom generally prohibits the flag's use for commercial purposes, per the Saudi Gazette. Ogunlesi's skirts in the weekend show also featured flags of other nations, including Japan and the UK. KYIV. Sept 18 (Interfax-Ukraine) Shareholders of IDS Ukraine, who are not under sanctions, and management, who own over 50% in the company, insist on granting them the primary right to manage the seized share of shareholders who are under sanctions, again accusing ARMA and the company it selected to manage the company, Carpathian Mineral Waters, of violations. "The right of private property is inviolable. Judicial seizure of assets leaves to non-sanctioned shareholders their legal right to own and use their property, take part in business management, and determine its development strategy," Vadym Vychka, a member of the board of directors of IDS Ukraine said at a press conference at Interfax-Ukraine on Monday. He called for changes to legislation that would allow non-sanctioned co-owners of companies to receive priority rights to manage them. Speaking about the actions of the Asset Recovery and Management Agency (ARMA), Vychka again accused it of trying to transfer management of the company's assets to its closest competitor. According to his estimates, IDS Ukraine has almost 6 times more revenue compared to Carpathian Mineral Waters (UAH 4.8 billion/year versus UAH 800 million/year), almost 5 times more market share (39% versus 8%) and 14 times more brand recognition (42% vs. 3%). He also claims that ARMA did not provide a timely assessment of the assets of IDS Ukraine, since the Habiano private enterprise, which won the appraiser competition, did not contact IDS Ukraine for information, and also accused the agency of trying to sign a management agreement with Carpathian Mineral Waters before receiving the AMCU permission for concentration. As Vychka emphasized, only the legal confiscation of the share of sanctioned shareholders will allow the state to attract large international players interested in IDS Ukraine and ensure the maximum sale price. According to his information, the Economic Security Bureau estimated the cost of IDS Ukraine at UAH 10 billion, and the Morshynska brand itself at UAH 525 million. The member of the board of directors referred to one of the interviews with the owner of Carpathian Mineral Waters, where it was said that, despite gaining control over the Morshynska brand, they intend to concentrate on developing their own business. Vychka claims that there are abuses by representatives of Carpathian Mineral Waters, who, from the moment they were announced as the winner of the competition, began to put pressure on customers, forcing them to purchase water under the Karpatska Dzherelna trademark when ordering Morshynska water. He regards such actions as anti-competitive behavior and disregard for business ethics. The member of the board of directors also called on the Antimonopoly Committee to carefully analyze possible concentration. "By allowing it (concentration) without proper grounds, a monopolist may appear on the market, which will have a 50% share of the mineral water market in Ukraine, which, even before receiving permits, acted with dirty methods," Vychka said. Sorry! This content is not available in your region Note: It is interesting to consider that Fairbanks supported several newspapers during a time when the population was a tiny fraction of what it is today. Since those days many newspapers have come and gone, but the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner has had the staying power beyond all the rest of them. Also noteworthy is that William Fentress Thompson was a member of Fairbanks Mens Igloo No. 4. This hot off the presses History Nugget has been brought to you by the Fairbanks Igloos of the Pioneers of Alaska. You can learn more at pioneersofalska.org. AGHDAM, Azerbaijan, September 18. Currently, the ICRC has delivered the necessary humanitarian cargo to people with cargo vehicles passing through both the Lachin and Aghdam roads. This includes flour and medical supplies, Ilaha Huseynova, an official of the public relations department of the ICRC told Trend's Karabakh Bureau. "We are very pleased that the decision-makers reached a humanitarian consensus and this operation took place. We hope that the humanitarian consensus will support the continuous delivery of the assistance that people need. Since December, ICRC has been conducting humanitarian activities. From December until today, medical evacuations for more than 800 individuals have been carried out. Additionally, certain medical supplies have been delivered via the Lachin route during these medical evacuations. However, recently it has not been possible to deliver large-scale medical supplies or large-scale humanitarian aid. Today, we were able to accomplish that as well. There must be consent from those who decide to carry out ICRC's operations. When there is consent from decision-makers, we carry out operations with the condition of sharing information beforehand. In other words, there must be a humanitarian consensus for us to proceed with the operations", the ICRC official said. TDT | Manama The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com Bahrains Foreign Affairs Ministry welcomed the efforts of Saudi Arabia, in coordination with Oman, to invite a delegation from Sanaa, Yemen to Riyadh to hold discussions for peace. It is part of an effort to reach a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire in the Republic of Yemen, expand the truce, and achieve a sustainable political solution acceptable to all Yemeni parties. The Ministry reiterated the support of Bahrain for the initiative announced by Saudi Arabia in March 2021 to end the crisis in Yemen through a comprehensive peace settlement, and in accordance with the Gulf initiative and its executive mechanism, the outcomes of the National Dialogue Conference, and Security Council Resolution No. 2216. TDT | Manama The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com The Royal Humanitarian Foundation (RHF), under the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, has sent its first shipment of relief aid to victims of flash floods in Libya. The shipment, containing relief and medical materials, was launched under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of His Majesty the King for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs. As of yesterday, the death toll from the devastating floods in eastern Libya has surpassed 11,000, according to the Libyan Red Crescent. More than 9,000 people are still missing, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). HH Shaikh Nasser expressed gratitude to HM the King for his generous support and allowing the foundation to serve the Libyan people. He highlighted HM the Kings keenness to provide continuous humanitarian initiatives to help those in need in various parts of the world. HH Shaikh Nasser also praised His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for his constant support to the initiatives. HM the Kings Representative emphasised that the Kingdom of Bahrain stands by the Libyan people in this crisis. Bahrain seeks to consolidate international solidarity based on the fraternal and humanitarian ties that bring together various peoples. RHF Secretary-General Dr. Mustafa Al Sayed also thanked His Majesty for his directives, and praised his commitment to extending help to those in need worldwide. Dr. Al Sayed also lauded the presence of Shaikh Adnan bin Abdullah Al Qattan, Vice Chairman of the RHF Board of Trustees, during the launch of the aid shipment. China, Bahrain to enter new stage of cooperation next year: Ni Ruchi TDT | Manama The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com Report by Ashen Tharaka The 74th anniversary of the founding of the Peoples Republic of China was celebrated yesterday at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa in Bahrain. The event had the participation of many high-ranking officials, ministers, and community members. The Chinese Ambassador to Bahrain, Ni Ruchi, said in his speech that the history of the Peoples Republic of China is a history of great perseverance and hard work by the Chinese people under the leadership of the Communist Party of China. He highlighted the great changes that have taken place in China in recent years, including the countrys rise to become the worlds second-largest economy, the largest industrial producer, and the largest state of goods. The ambassador also spoke about Chinas commitment to peace and development and its cooperation with other countries on initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative. He noted that China and Bahrain enjoy a traditional friendship and that relations between the two countries have grown stronger in recent years. AFP | Frankfurt The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg has warned there will be no swift end to the Ukraine war, in an interview published Sunday, as Kyiv pushes on with its counteroffensive against Russia. "Most wars last longer than expected when they first begin," Stoltenberg said in an interview with Germany's Funke media group. "Therefore we must prepare ourselves for a long war in Ukraine." The conflict began in February, 2022 when Moscow sent its forces into Ukraine, bringing war back to Europe for the first time in decades. Kyiv launched its counteroffensive in June, pushing back against entrenched Russian positions in the south and east, but it has made limited gains. "We are all wishing for a quick peace," said Stoltenberg. "But at the same time we must recognise: if President (Volodymyr) Zelensky and the Ukrainians stop fighting, their country will no longer exist. "If President (Vladimir) Putin and Russia lay down their weapons, we will have peace." On Ukraine's ambitions to join the alliance, Stoltenberg said: "There is no doubt that Ukraine will eventually be in NATO." Kyiv had "moved closer to NATO" at a summit of the alliance in July, he said. "When this war ends, we need security guarantees for Ukraine. Otherwise, history could repeat itself," he added. At the July summit in Vilnius, NATO leaders agreed that Ukraine could join the alliance once certain conditions are met, and US and German officials made it clear that these would include Kyiv carrying out reforms to protect democracy and the rule of law. Multiplatform campaign features authentic stories of real passengers, employees and partners of Toronto's downtown airport TORONTO, Sept. 18, 2023 /CNW/ - PortsToronto, owner and operator of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (Billy Bishop Airport), today launched It's My Airport, a multiplatform campaign featuring genuine, candid experiences shared by real passengers, employees and partners of Toronto's downtown airport. With the tagline It's My Airport, the campaign depicts actual passengers, employees and partners recounting their travel experiences and providing the reasons why they choose Billy Bishop Airport, work at the airport or partner with the airport. Participants were not paid and were not scripted. Billy Bishop Airports Its My Airport campaign shares genuine, candid experiences shared by real passengers, employees and partners of Torontos downtown airport. (CNW Group/PortsToronto) Its My Airport depicts actual passengers, employees and partners recounting their travel experiences and why they choose Billy Bishop Airport. (CNW Group/PortsToronto) Themes emerging from candid interviews with the passengers, staff and airport partners included the airport's proximity to downtown, the ability to walk or bike to the airport, friendly customer service, the airport's sustainability practices, economic impact, career opportunities and proximity to Toronto infrastructure such as hospitals. The campaign will run for 16 weeks, with a provision to extend on certain platforms, and includes social media, print, out-of-home (OOH), and online. The digital OOH screens in the airport will also be incorporated. Advertising creative includes a QR code for people to connect and submit their own stories about why they choose Billy Bishop Airport, and those submissions will form the basis for a future campaign planned for winter 2024. See more of the campaign, or submit your own It's My Airport story here. Quote "Billy Bishop Airport is a beloved airport among travellers because it offers a unique travel experience that is based in convenience, accessibility, friendly service and incredible views," said Deborah Wilson, Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs for PortsToronto, owner and operator of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. "Passengers often share their stories and experiences about the advantages of flying in and out of Billy Bishop Airport and it was these stories that inspired the It's My Airport campaign. We reached out to passengers who had posted to social media about the airport to star in our campaign and used their actual stories and posts along with quotes gathered from candid interviews. We also featured the stories and experiences of Billy Bishop Airport staff and airport partners. The people featured in this campaign were not scripted so the campaign spotlights their authentic, genuine experiences at Billy Bishop Airport, whether as a passenger or an employee." About Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) Offering service to more than 20 cities in Canada and the U.S., with connection opportunities to more than 80 international destinations via our airlines' networks, Billy Bishop Airport is an important international gateway and a key driver to Toronto's economy, generating more than $470 million in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) each year and supporting 4,740 jobs, including 2,080 directly associated with the airport operations and facilitating healthcare for Ontarians by providing a base for medevac services connected to local hospitals.. Billy Bishop Airport is renowned for its unique travel experience, efficiency and customer service and has won a series of passenger-driven awards. With a focus on cleaner, greener and quieter operations, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has made significant upgrades in recent years to achieve its sustainability goals, which are reported on an annual basis. Billy Bishop Airport is owned and operated by PortsToronto. SOURCE PortsToronto For further information: Media Contact: Jessica Pellerin, Manager, Media Relations and Public Affairs, PortsToronto, Cell: (647) 298-0585, E-mail: [email protected] Most people would say that it is impossible for Canada GDP at $2.2 trillion today to pass Chinas GDP which is $18.8 trillion. The last year Canada was ahead of Chinas GDP was in 1978. Canadas economy as 33% larger than Chinas in 1976. China had 930 million people in 1976 and Canada had 23 million. How could this happen ? China collapses or Canada surges or a lot of both. For people who doubt the conclusion, see the ending summary to understand this not just a prediction about the future but explaining what has already happened over the last 30 years. Detailed Analysis Since 1976, Chinas GDP has gone up 100 times while Canadas went up 11 times. Canadas population is now 40.35 million. Canada added ten million people since 2000. Canada added 3.4 million people from 2000 to 2010. Canada added 6.7 million people since 2010. Canada added 2.5 million people from 2021 to today and this year the annualized adding 1.4 million people. Statscan estimated 38.9 million at Sept 30, 2022, 39.3 million at Dec 2022. Canada added over 1 million people in 9 months and 352,000 in the last 3 months. Who are the people immigrating to Canada? Over 25% of the people immigrating to Canada are from India and over 7% are from China. IF Canada adds 10 million people per decade from now to 2100 then Canada will add 77 million people and have a population of 117 million. IF Canada adds 14 million people per decade from now to 2100 then Canada will add 107 million people and have a population of 147 million. This would be 25-30 million people from India moving to Canada and 5 to 10 million from China moving to Canada. With only population growth and no per capita GDP growth Canada can reach $9 trillion in GDP in todays dollars in 2100. China is heading the opposite direction on population and India could join in dropping population. China now has the lowest fertility rate alongside other southeast asian countries of Taiwan, Hong Kong, South Korea and Singapore. China population is shrinking but more important to population collapse is the number of girls 0-4 is half the number of women who are in 35-39 and aging out of fertility. The biggest problem with China have a fertility rate of 1.09 is that there are only 0.54 fertile daughters produced by the average women. The Fertile women population plummets far faster than overall population. The number of women in China able to have children will drop in half by 2045-2055. Chinas population could drop from 1.4 billion to 1 billion in 2050 and could drop to 400 million in 2100. Chinas population would be less than 30% of its population today. It would be less than half of the population in 1976. With only population change and no per capita GDP growth China would have $6 trillion GDP in todays dollars in 2100. Japans GDP hit the wall in 1995 at $5.5 trillion. Japans population aged and shrank to $4.2 trillion last year and maybe $4.4 trillion this year. Japan lost 25% of its GDP over a time (1995-2023) when the Canada and USA each more tripled GDP. Japans median age increased from 38 in 1995 to 48 in 2023. Chinas median age will increase from 38 today to 50 in 2050. Canada can roughly double its population by 2050-2055 and its GDP would triple or quadruple. This would be $7-9 trillion GDP around 2050. China could take a 30-50% GDP hit as the demographic impact would be worse than Japan from 1995-2023. This would put China at $9-12 trillion in GDP. If China is able to sustain GDP in spite of the aging and shrinking population then it would take until 2070 to 2080 for Canada to pass China. 30% of Chinas GDP is from real estate. Japans real estate was cut in half from 1995 to 2023 because of the reduced demand from a shrinking aging population. If China has a long and near permanent recession from an aging and shrinking population then many more Chinese could choose to emigrate. If millions of people in China decide to leave then their destinations will be Canada, Australia, USA and Europe. China had a great economy in the 1990s and still had net migration out of the country. When Chinas economy was not so good there over 800,000 net migrants. If China has a sustained Japan-like lost decades then emigration could easily spike to 2 million per year. Canada would be welcoming 200,000 to 300,000 from China each year instead of 35000. Indias population has dropped below replacement as well. There are projections that India could drop below 1.7 on fertility this year. Replacement fertility is 2.1. Indians in Malaysia and other southeast countries with chinese and indian populations show the same low fertility rate. If Indias GDP per capita moves up then India would likely also face 1.2-1.4 fertility levels. Indias population could start shrinking around 2050-2060 and could also drop below 1 billion by 2100. A bad economy in India would mean more Indian emigration to Canada. Highlights of The Analysis and the Reliability of Two Decade Population Forecasts People will want to dismiss this conclusion. But the shock is more about the global depopulation problem has already happened. Fertile women are disappearing around the world. We know how much fewer fertile women there will be because girls aged 0-4 will become the 16-20 year old women who could have children. Only women aged 16-36 can have children. The ones over 37 are so rare it does not matter. There are four 5 year age groups that make up the 16-36 fertile women. In 15 years the 0-15 girls replace the current 21-35 year old women in the population pyramid. This is locked in already. This is not just a forecast out 37 to 77 years. It is not just saying that things will happen. It is saying that very important things have already happened for the past 30-50 years. There are unavoidable consequences. It is super rare for women who are not 16-36 years of age to have babies. China has about 70% as many women who could have children now as they did 25 years ago (165 million vs 230 million). The number of fertile women will drop to 132 million in 20 years. In 30 years, it will be 80-100 million fertile women. Women in cities who get a University education do not start having babies until they are 24-36. Chinas median age will increase from now to 2050. Again this cannot really be changed. Only by surging the number of babies can this be altered somewhat. The population pyramid will shift forward. Age everyone by 15 years and you get the population pyramid from 16-85 based upon those who were 0-70. We have seen what happens to a large developed economy when the median age increases from 38 to 48. This was the case study of Japan. Japan ended up with 30-40% of the economy it would have had if it did not have a badly aging population. The population pyramid has locked in the next 15-20 years for China on median age and shrinking workforce. Only 0.5-1.5% of the world population emigrates to other countries. The global immigration-emigration patterns are slow changing over decades. The flows from one country to another are like pumping water from a well. It takes a while to build up the flow of people but after you do then the flow tends to continue. The conclusion above is not a 37-77 year projection. It is reading what is locked in for the next 15-20 years and then 22-47 years of trends. These trends that are as difficult to change as a large ship headed for an iceberg. Changes can be made but the level of urgency, emergency and effort must be increased by 10 to twenty times todays efforts. I urge those changes to be made not just in China but in 70-80% of the world which has dropped below replacement. This includes India, Bangladesh, almost all of Europe, Americas and Asia. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Trucks of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) have freely crossed the Lachin border checkpoint parallel to the Aghdam-Khankendi road, Trend reports. The trucks were given free passage after being inspected at the Lachin border checkpoint. It should be noted that the separatists in Karabakh finally submitted to Azerbaijan's conditions and agreed to the simultaneous opening of the Lachin road and the Aghdam-Khankendi road. As a result, the separatist leaders announced that they had decided to accept the joint proposal of the International Committee of the Red Cross office in Khankendi and the Russian peacekeeping command regarding the simultaneous transportation of food by ICRC vehicles along the Lachin road and the Aghdam-Khankendi road. In fact, there was an agreement on the simultaneous opening of these routes on September 1. The separatists expediently delayed this process. Gas retailers have warned that the price of 12.5kg cooking gas may hit N18,000 by December if the Federal Government does not restrict the activities of the terminal owners. The President, Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers, Olatunbosun Oladapo, told Punch Newspapers on Sunday, that the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas also known as cooking gas has gone astronomically high at terminals as a result of a sudden increment from between N9-N10m per 20 metric tons to N14m per 20 metric tons. There is a ridiculous hike in gas prices going on right now, and I am afraid that if the Federal Government does not step in to checkmate the activities of these terminal owners, price could reach as high as N18m per metric tons by December. This means that a 12.5kg could go as high as N18,000. According to him, terminal owners were hiding under the guise of high foreign exchange to increase price to further increase the suffering of the masses. Olatunbosun said there was no justification for the increment, as the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas Limited still supplied the market. He said, NNPCL currently takes 59 per cent of the gas produced by NLNG, although NLNG has also increased its price from N6m to N8m. Now, because NLNG has increased price, NNPCL and terminal owners have increased price to N14m. The increase in price that would take effect is not the fault of retailers. It is the fault of NLNG and terminal owners. Even NNPCL is hiding under the guise that they are now privatised to increase prices. As of last week, 1kg was N800 at the terminal, now it is N1,200, and could reach N1,500 by December if care is not taken. He added, Now, the ordinary man would not be able to buy gas. How many minimum wage earners can afford gas now? Everyone is turning to firewood and charcoal. The surprising thing was that they visited President Tinubu last week, and promised to work together with his administration to make life better. Now they have come back and started doing something else. Where are all the palliatives and busses they promised to donate? We have not seen anything. It can be recalled that there were reports of an intended hike in cooking gas prices in August. Prices had since shot up, with 12.5kg cylinder of cooking gas going as high as high as N10,000. Although gas terminal owners did not have a visible association, spokespersons for NavGas, Friday Agwu, and Nipco Plcs Askay Kumar, blamed the hike on forex and the international market. No one is selling at N1,200/kg. I have not heard such high price yet, Kumar told newsmen via a telephone conversation on Sunday. He however declined to respond when asked how much the landing cost was. Friday blamed the price on forex and raise in price of crude oil at the international market. Flat price increase and forex challenges, and LPG responding to crude price increase at the international market, he said via a whatssap message to newsmen. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Food cargo has been delivered to Armenians in Azerbaijans Karabakh simultaneity via Aghdam-Khankendi and Lachin-Khankendi routes, Trend reports. One truck and two cars belonging to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) have arrived in Khankendi, Armenians post on social media. On September 17, the leaders of the separatist regime in Azerbaijans Karabakh have decided to accept the joint proposal of the Khankendi office of the International Committee of the Red Cross and the command of the Russian peacekeepers on the simultaneous transportation of food cargo by vehicles of the International Committee of the Red Cross along the Lachin-Khankendi and the Aghdam-Khankendi roads. Earlier, an agreement on the simultaneous opening of these routes was reached on September 1. The separatists expediently delayed this process. Azerbaijan's principled position once again prevailed. Apparently, the separatists start to realize that the sooner they stop their reckless resistance, the better. After all, it is obvious that the reintegration of the Armenian minority of Karabakh is the only way to ensure their bright future. The Tinubu Government is planning Abuja-Lagos and Port Harcourt-Lagos superhighways, Minister of Work Dave Umahi disclosed this to the State House Correspondents on Sunday. He spoke with journalists after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja. He said that the highways would be done through a Public Private Partnership scheme, adding that they would be provided with state of art facilities for the comfort of the travelling public. Super highways are designed for travel at high speeds, having more than one lane for each direction of traffic, a safety strip dividing the two directions. The minister said that the government has got commitments from stakeholders to make the project a success within reasonable period. Umahi also disclosed that the president was briefed on the need to seek better appropriation for the funding of road projects to avoid unnecessary variations in cost and specifications. He said that the National Assembly would be carried along to see the necessity of providing enough fund to road project that are beneficial to the people. He also said that due to inappropriate funding, he has asked the president to direct the termination of road projects that have taken more than 10 years without completion. The minister assured Nigerians that no project initiated by the past administration would be abandoned by government. He said that the Tinubu administration inherited 2,604 projects worth N14 trillion covering 18,000 kilometres of roads, adding that a commitment was got for payment of four trillion out of this amount. The minister added that the government was also committed to the use of reinforced concrete for road pavements across the country. Concrete, he said, is capable of withstanding heavy loads, such as heavy vehicles, with less deformation and serves for years without major repairs. Several factors affect concrete pavement performance, such as traffic, soil, environmental, economic and stress distribution factors. He said that the merit of these would be the use of local materials and elimination of imported items which has been the cause of contract variations in the country.. On the structural defects on the Third Mainland bridge in Lagos, Umahi said that work has started and articulated vehicles had been stopped from plying it for now. The Ondo State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress has declared that it would punish a ward chairman of the party in Akoko North-West Local Government Area of the state, Mr Olumide Awolumate, for allegedly beating the state Commissioner for Woman Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Juliana Osadahun. The embattled chairman was seen in a video engaging in a free-for-all with the commissioner, allegedly inflicting injuries on the latters head during palliatives distribution in Arigidi Akoko, on Sunday. Speaking with our correspondent on the incident, on Monday, the state chairman of the party, Mr Ade Adetimehin, expressed bitterness over the alleged attack on the commissioner and stated that the party would sit on the matter today (Monday). He said, We dont tolerate indiscipline in our party. The erring chairman would be suspended for being involved in such a public, embarrassing act. I have directed the party chairman in the local government to bring everybody to Akure today (Monday) and we will deliberate and appropriate sanction will be meted out where necessary. But, the ward chairman would be suspended. House of Assembly, Princess Oluwatosin Ajirotutu, has condemned the alleged assault on the commissioner. She called on the state police command to arrest and prosecute the APC chieftain. The legislator said, It is displeasing and barbaric to have viewed a video clip that surfaced and has caused pandemonium in the media space and Arigidi in Akoko Northwest of Ondo State following the directive of Ondo State Government on subsidy palliatives distribution across the state. The action of Mr. Awolumate Olumide on Hon. Adebunmi Osadahun is condemned and he should be arrested and made to face maximum disciplinary sanction by the Ondo State Commissioner of Police while the Attorney General of Ondo State should prosecute Mr. Olumide immediately. Assault on womenfolk should not be tolerated in any part of Ondo State and the country. Women deserve our caring in every situation because of their sensitive roles in society. The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Bayelsa State, Timipre Sylva, has accused the state governor, Senator Douye Diri, of recruiting spies to monitor his movement. Sylva in a statement signed and sent to newsmen, by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Julius Bokoru, said credible intelligence available to him indicated that the spies operating across the state especially the Bayelsa International Cargo Airport were asked to document and report his movements in the state to some off-grid security architecture in Bayelsa. The former governor said the spy activities were being coordinated by a close security aide of the governor with the aim of compromising his convoy. He called on security agencies and members of the public to take note of Diris strategy of violence against him and the people of Bayelsa with special focus on Opu-Nembe. According to him, instead of adopting the strategy of commissioning and inaugurating projects to convince the electorate, like other serving governors seeking reelection, Diri has resorted to desperation, violence and underhand practices following his failure in office. The statement said: Credible reports available to H.E Chief Timipre Sylva, Governorship Candidate of the APC in Bayelsa State suggests that Gov. Douye Diri has commissioned spies across the state, especially at the Bayelsa International Cargo Airport, to document and report Chief Sylvas movements in Bayelsa and environs to some off-grid security architecture in the State. This desperate, illegitimate security operation is headed by a close security aide to Gov. Diri and the end game, as is known, is to compromise the convoy and security of Chief Sylva. This is to alert the general public and especially the security agencies across the nation to take note of Gov. Diris strategy of violence against Sylva and the Bayelsa people with special focus being Opu-Nembe. A serving Governors chief campaign strategy, naturally, was to reel out achievements and milestones, not investing in an orgy of violence. Diri should be commissioning projects, not commissioning spies. Sylvas push to Creek Haven is an act of liberation and Bayelsans are massively aligned. The change is soon, the change is inevitable and the soul of Bayelsa state will be salvaged from the jaws of characters whose futile way of masking their inefficiency is violence. But, reacting to the allegation, the governors Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, said Diri is a well-known pacifist and an advocate of politics without bitterness. The statement said, He (Diri) has said he wont spill blood to get re-elected into office. It is on record that for the first time in the history of elections in Bayelsa State, the February/March general election in the country was so peaceful in the state that there were no reported cases of bloodshed and killings unlike in the past. This was due to the governors peaceful disposition that has permeated the politics of the state. So, Chief Sylva is only crying wolf where there is none. Going by his antecedents, we believe he is the one planning what he is accusing the governor of. But it is better to ignore the rantings of a drowning man seeking claws to hang on to or trying to make excuses for his failed governorship project. His rejection by his party chieftains, his Nembe/Brass people and indeed the Bayelsa electorate is total. The Congolese government has debunked rumours of a coup attempt against President Denis Nguesso. Thierry Moungalla, the countrys minister of information, spoke via a message posted on the X platform tweet on Sunday. Earlier, some social media accounts and news reports claimed a coup attempt was underway in the country as the president was away attending the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, United States. While the reports said the identities of the coup plotters were unknown, they suggested that the commander of the presidential guard had a role to play in the attempted takeover. Moungalla described the reports as fake news. Fanciful information suggests serious events that are underway at #Brazzaville. The Government denies this fake news, the minister tweeted. We reassure public opinion about the calm that reigns and invite people to calmly go about their activities. Nguesso is a former military officer who has been president since 1997. He had been part of a military coup that ousted former President Alphonse Massemaba-Debat in 1968. The development comes amid growing concerns about a regressing democracy in Africa, where the military has been staging coups in recent times. President Bola Tinubu on Monday said democracy without food on the table is a breeding ground for what will consume the people, if care is not taken. The President also advanced his economic development diplomatic drive for investment attraction as he engaged extensively in a bilateral discussion with South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, in New York City, ahead of the United Nations General Assembly. President Tinubu asserted that Africa must have a consensus view that the hundreds of billions of dollars spent through International Development Finance Institutions over the years must meet the specific needs of developing democracies in Africa, even if it is done with exclusive regard for their own enlightened self-interest. According to him, During the end of the Second World War, the Marshall Plan was established for the reconstruction and economic restoration of European nations through Bretton Woods institutions. Where has this presence been for Africa? We have to be careful not to replace the broken shackle of yesterday with a new set of shackles. You cannot have a stable democracy in the presence of poverty of knowledge and a starvation of people. Democracy without food on the table is a breeding ground for what will consume us, if care is not taken. We must join hands and agree that International Finance Institutions require reform as Africa is not to be a ground for economic scavenging any longer, but it is a place with gifted people that is ready for investment and cooperation. We have all the human and natural resources required between our nations. We can collaborate in a mutually beneficial way that enriches our populations. South African Mining industries have a role to play in the Nigerian solid minerals development sector. Your business community has done well in Nigerian Telecommunications. We have great mineral wealth across our land, and you have good expertise in this area. We expect to deliver jobs and mutually beneficial results in this area as brother and sister countries, the President affirmed. Referencing President Tinubus quick implementation of what he called brave economic reforms, the South African President agreed that the two countries have much more wealth to create together in close and intentional partnership, with each nation leveraging on each others respective strengths. We are two major economies on our continent, and it is important that we deepen economic ties, particularly in light of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement. We are very keen on the deepening of our economic relations, the South African President said. A statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, said the South African President emphasized that history has proven that Nigeria and South Africa can move the world on matters of mutual concern when the two nations operate on the same wavelength. He said, We would love to see Nigeria and South Africa working closely together on a number of issues because whenever we join hands, we have made an impact globally through those joint positions. Together, we can move the global south forward. We are a continent that has been plundered. And wealthy nations made so much of it from us, and we must seek out partners who will help us to advance our own interests, the South African President emphasized. Recognising President Tinubus effective stewardship as the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State, the South African leader said that Southern Africa needed to emulate the solidarity being demonstrated in West Africa, following the Niger Crisis. We believe that we have a lot to learn from ECOWAS and its unity in reaching consensus positions on sub-regional matters. This is something we seek to emulate in the Southern African sub-region in view of events in Mozambique and other areas, President Ramaphosa said. The South African leader also used the opportunity of the bilateral engagement to extend an invitation to President Bola Tinubu to visit South Africa, following President Ramaphosas recent visit to Nigeria, as part of efforts to deepen economic ties and strengthen relationship between both countries. While accepting the invitation, President Tinubu affirmed that an Africa, in which Nigeria and South Africa are working in synergy to advance their common interests, is the strongest version of the continent, which can make more impact on global affairs for the benefit of over one billion Africans with its enormous human and natural resource wealth. Our continent is the last untapped ground for accelerated, massive growth and new economic opportunity on earth. We must be in charge of our own resources, and we must work to use each other effectively to achieve what is best for all of us, Mr. President. We look forward to an era of economically productive relationship, the Nigerian leader concluded. The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) says it will postpone the upward review of the salaries of political office holders in the country. The RMAFC is a federal government agency responsible for mobilising and allocating revenue to the three tiers of government in Nigeria. The commission also monitors the financial activities of the federal, state, and local governments to ensure that they are in compliance with the law. In June, the commission said the salaries of politicians, judicial and public office holders will be increased by 114 percent. Speaking in an interview with NAN on Sunday, Mohammed Shehu, chairman of the commission, said the postponement is due to current economic challenges in Nigeria. Shehu said the last time the review took place was in 2007 and that political office holders do not earn outrageous emoluments as speculated by Nigerians. From 2008 till date there had not been any single review, he said. Last year, some individuals took the federal government to court. These were some activists concerned about the salaries of judicial officers. In the court, the judge ruled that a judge should be paid about N10 million a month, that was the court ruling. We are Nigerians, we are not going to start talking about reviewing salaries of political office holders now because of the challenges that the government is facing. As a commission, we are going to do our work but we are not going to say we will do it now. We will do it when the climate is right and then we will take it forward to the stakeholders for them to decide on what to do. The chairman said what people considered as outrageous earnings of lawmakers were statutory office running costs which should be managed by the national assembly service commission. I know some people will say members of the national assembly get up to N10 million or N11 million monthly, he said. Those are not salaries, they are like operating cost of running their offices which in other societies the legislator does not have to see because there is a structure. Once you get elected, you make that structure from your constituency office to computers to logistics to the size of your constituency. Wherever you have constituency office, the workers you hire, It is the national assembly service commission that is supposed to take care of that. Olu Agunloye, former minster of power at the centre of a $6 billion build, operate and transfer (BOT) contract controversy, has been quizzed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the affair. TheCable reports that a payment with the description FRM LENO were traced to his account after he committed the federal government to the disputed contract awarded to Sunrise Power Ltd, promoted by Leno Adesanya. Sunrise is in arbitration with Nigeria at the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Paris, France, over an alleged breach of contract and asking for a compensation of $2.3 billion, claiming it had spent millions of dollars on financial and legal consultants before the contract was jettisoned. It is also asking for a $400 million settlement being the terms of the agreement it entered with the federal government in 2020 to end the arbitration. In a recent interview with TheCable, former President Olusegun Obasanjo challenged Agunloye to tell Nigerians where he derived the authority to award a $6 billion contract to Sunrise Power and Transmission Ltd in respect of the Mambilla hydropower project in 2003. In his response, Agunloye said the government was not obliged to pay a kobo to Sunrise under the agreement as it was to be fully funded by the newly registered company, whose declared assets were worth less that $2,000 at the time. Agunloye was, however, silent on where and how he got authorisation to commit the government to a $6 billion when, according to Obasanjo, ministers could not approve more than N25 million when he was president. SHOPPING IN FLORIDA In its investigations, the EFCC discovered a number of transactions between Sunrise Power and government officials which it considers as inappropriate and could have material impact on the arbitration. There was a transfer made by a Sunrise Power official to Agunloye with the description FRM LENO, TheCable also reports. In its defence, Sunrise said it was a cultural payment to support the former ministers medical expenses. However, a further investigation by EFCC appeared to show that Agunloye spent the money on shopping and transportation around Orlando Florida, in the United States, and not on medical expenses. The discovery of the bank transfers triggered another investigating dating back to the 2000s. TheCable also adds that some serving and former government officials will be charged to court over the affair. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has denied Madam Taiwo Martins, who apologised on his behalf for commanding some monarchs in Oyo State to stand up for Governor Seyi Makinde. Obasanjo had, while issuing the command to the monarchs at a public event, noted that a governor is more powerful than any king. Following the development, Madam Taiwo Martins, who claimed to be Obasanjos wife, issued an apology on behalf of the former President. However, reacting to the apology, Obasanjo disowned the woman and insisted that he stands by his comments. In a statement by his media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi, on Monday, Obasanjo expresed annoyance that one Ms. Taiwo Martins has authored a statement, appealing to Obas and Yorubas to forgive him as her husband. While conceding that the he and the woman gave birth to two children, Obasanjo stressed that she is not his wife, neither is she a member of his family. For the records, Ms. Martins has two children, Jonwo and Bunmi, for Chief Obasanjo but to say emphatically she is not his wife nor a member of the Obasanjo family. Her posturing as Chief Obasanjos wife is false and that of an impostor. Nobody makes statement on behalf of the Obasanjo family except Chief Obasanjo or people delegated by him to do so. The state of health of Ms. Martins is known to all and sundry and whatever she says or does has nothing to do with Chief Obasanjo as an individual or the Obasanjo family as a whole, the statement said. The statement added that Obasanjo has affirmed that he stood firmly, unapologetically and uncompromisingly on the position that the Governor of a State holds the highest office in the State. By that position, the respect, protocol and dignity that must be given to the Office by virtue of the Constitution must not be denied. To do otherwise is to deride the Office and the Constitution, the statement added. Obasanjo incurred the wrath of many Yoruba people when he ordered the Oyo monarchs to stand up for the governor. The Nigerian government has asked a federal high court in Abuja to void promissory notes issued to consultants with respect to the Paris Club refund. The suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/896/2023, was filed by the federal government, the attorney-general of the federation, the minister of finance, budget and national planning and the accountant-general of the federation. The defendants include FSDH Merchant Bank Limited, Ned Munir Nwoko, Gregory Nangor Lar, Riok Nigeria Limited, Prince Orji Nwafor Orizu, Olaitan Bello, Dr. Ted Iseghohi Edwards, and Panic Alert Security System Limited. The controversial payment of $418 million to consultants (defendants in the suit) who were engaged by the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) and the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) has become a contentious issue between the three tiers of government. On September 27, 2021, the Debt Management Office (DMO) issued 62 promissory notes worth $418,953,668 to the defendants as a result of several judgments and orders of mandamus obtained by the defendants. The plaintiffs are contending, among others, that the promissory notes are invalid, having been wrongly issued in violation of relevant laws. They argued that although the promissory notes were executed by the then minister of finance, budget and national planning and the director-general of the DMO, the notes were not signed as required. In a supporting affidavit, Oyinlade Koleosho, a principal state counsel in the federal ministry of justice, said the promissory notes were wrongly and invalidly issued against the assets of the federation. The promissory notes in issue were wrongly and unlawfully charged on the assets and revenues of the federation instead of the assets and revenues of the states and local governments, who incurred the applicable loans/debts, the affidavit reads. The lawyer said sections 314 and 317 of the constitution have separated the assets of a state or local government from the assets of the federation or the federal government of Nigeria. The plaintiffs also claimed that since the defendants were not engaged by the federal government, there is no valid consideration for the promissory notes issued to them (defendants). According to court documents, FSDH Merchant Bank Limited was issued 10 promissory notes for a total value of $67,925,661.00, at the rate of $6,499,561.00 per note (allegedly for the benefit of Nwoko). Gregory Nangor Lar, who is described as Nwokos agent, was issued two promissory notes for the account/benefit of the second defendant (Nwoko) for the total value of $732,511.00 at the rate of $366,256.00 per note. Riok Nigeria Limited was issued 10 promissory notes valued at $142,028, 941.00, at the rate of $14,202,895.00 per note. Orji Nwafor Orizu was issued 10 promissory notes valued at $1,219,440.00 at the rate of $121,944.00 per note. Olaitan Bello was said to have been issued eight promissory notes valued at $215,195.00 at the rate of $21,524.00 per note. The documents said Ted Iseghohi Edwards got 10 promissory notes for the value of $159,000,000.00, at the rate of $15,900,000.00. Panic Alert Security System Limited was also issued 10 promissory notes for the value of $47,831,920.00, at $4,783,192.00 per note. The Nigeria Police Force has warned the general public about recent activities of some individuals operating as middlemen, acting as negotiators, and exploiting the names of high-ranking police officers, including that of the Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, to intimidate and coerce others on behalf of individuals who are currently in police custody over involvement in criminal activities. The Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi made the development known Monday night in an official correspondence obtained by our correspondent. Adejobi said, The Nigeria Police Force is deeply concerned about recent reports concerning the activities of certain individuals who are operating as middlemen, acting as negotiators on behalf of individuals involved in criminal activities currently in police custody. These individuals have been exploiting the names of high-ranking police officers, including that of the Inspector-General of Police, to intimidate and coerce others. *We strongly encourage all Nigerians to be vigilant and exercise discernment when approached by anyone using the names of senior police officers, as this practice not only undermines trust in our law enforcement agencies but also poses a significant threat to the integrity of our justice system. He also urged police officers who may consider working with such middlemen to be cautious, as anyone found guilty will face the consequences. Furthermore, we wish to emphasise our commitment to the high standards and principles upon which the Nigeria Police Force is built. We strongly caution members of our own ranks who may consider colluding with these middlemen to compromise the standards of the force, to refrain from such actions immediately. It is essential to highlight that any officer found engaging in such activities will face severe consequences. The Nigeria Police Force maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards any actions that could tarnish our reputation or compromise the administration of justice, The police high command also warned the public against fraudulent individuals who disguise as police auctioneers to defraud unsuspecting victims. In addition to the issues of name-dropping and impersonation, we also wish to draw the publics attention to the fraudulent activities of individuals who parade themselves as police auctioneers. These fraudsters are not affiliated with the Nigeria Police Force in any official capacity. We want to emphasize that we have duly registered auctioneers who follow established procedures for Conducting public auctions. Any deviation from these procedures is unlawful, and we urge the public to be vigilant against fraudulent practices. Finally, we reaffirm our commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism within the Nigeria Police Force. We urge all Nigerians to have faith in our justice system and to report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities, most especially, our already published contacts. We are determined to protect the rights and interests of all citizens and to maintain the trust that you place in us as a responsible and civil law enforcement agency, Adejobi added. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. It has been proven that a significant part of Azerbaijan's missing servicemen died not on the battlefield but were killed in prisoner-of-war camps, the chairman of the State Commission of Azerbaijan on Prisoners of War, Hostages and Missing Citizens, Colonel General Ali Naghiyev, said during an international event on "Strengthening national and global efforts to determine the fate of the missing persons", Trend reports. "As a result of the military aggression, Azerbaijan suffered significant human losses and experienced terrible deaths accompanied by the complete destruction of hundreds of our towns and villages," he emphasized. He noted that 3,890 people were registered with the State Commission as missing in action in the first Karabakh war. "Among them, about 3,171 people are military, and 719 are civilians. Among civilians, 71 are minors, 267 are women, and 326 are elderly. Also, six servicemen were missing in the second Karabakh War. The facts obtained show that a significant part of our missing servicemen were killed not on the battlefields but in prisoner-of-war camps as a result of terrible torture," he added. The State Commission of Azerbaijan for Prisoners of War, Hostages and Missing Citizens is organizing an international conference on "Enhancing national and international efforts aimed at clarifying the fate of missing persons" in Baku on September 18 with the participation of former heads of state and government of foreign countries, representatives of international organizations, including humanitarian organizations, as well as international political experts. Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State and his deputy, Phillip Shaibu, resumed hostilities on Monday, with the governor allegedly locking him out of his office. Multiple sources within the government house confirmed that the Deputy Governor attempted to force his way into the personal office of the Governor, along with his security aides. The Deputy Governor was said to have arrived at the Office of the Governor on Dennis Osadebey Avenue early Monday and tried to confront the governor. He was, however, told that the governor was not yet in the office, but he insisted on gaining access to the Governors personal office. All entreatries by the security operatives to him to kindly go back and call the governor if he wanted to see his principal were rebuffed. Instead, he kept pushing the gate, causing a scene. Observers are worried that he may physically attack the governor, a source said. Another source explained that the gate to the office of the Deputy Governor and the main entrance leading to the storey building was locked with chains and heavy padlocks. Shaibu and his aides waited for about an hour and left. He was said to have made frantic calls trying to reach the Governor but to no avail, the source added. Checks revealed that Shaibu had some discussions with the state Commissioner of Police and the State Director of the Department of State Services, DSS, alerting them to his plight. He was said to have summoned the Government House Camp Commandant, Ibrahim Babatunde, and asked him why he was locked out of his office. Babatunde reportedly claimed it was a directive from above, adding that the Chief Security Officer, CSO, of the Government House, Williams Wabba, would be in a better position to explain. When Shaibu called Wabba, he promised to come but never showed up until the deputy governor left. President Bola Tinubu has approved the nomination of Jamila Bio Ibrahim to serve as the Minister of Youth, pending her confirmation by the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The president has further approved the nomination of Ayodele Olawande to serve as the Minister of State for Youth, pending his confirmation by the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Ms Ibrahim is a young medical doctor and most recently served as the President of the Progressive Young Women Forum (PYWF). She has also served as the Senior Special Assistant to the Kwara State Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Mr Olawande is a community development expert and youth leader in the governing All Progressives Congress (APC). He most recently served in the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Innovation from 2019 to 2023. President Tinubu charges the above-mentioned nominees to ensure that they consistently reflect the dynamism, innovative zeal, and unyielding productivity that are synonymous with the young people of Nigeria as they discharge their duties. Chief Ajuri Ngelale Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) The Zamfara state governorship election petitions tribunal has affirmed the election of Dauda Lawal as governor of the state. Lawal defeated Bello Matawalle, the immediate former governor of Zamfara, in the March 18 election. Kassimu Shehu, the returning officer of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), said Lawal of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) polled 377,726 votes to defeat Matawalle, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who secured a total of 311,976 votes. Matawalle, now minister of state for defence, had gone to the tribunal to challenge the outcome of the election. He accused INEC of subverting his victory at the polls by failing to include the results of some ward areas. However, the tribunal in a judgment on Monday, held that the petition was devoid of merit. The court also awarded the N500,000 fine against the petitioners. Reacting to the judgment, Sulaiman Idris, spokesperson to the governor, said the verdict further affirms the will of the Zamfara people. The judgement was not surprising but rather an affirmation of the collective decision made by the unwavering people of Zamfara, Idris said. Governor Dauda Lawal emerged victorious in the governorship election with an impressive margin of 65,750 votes. Let it be known that this victory belongs to all the people of Zamfara, not just the Governor and his party. The judgement would encourage Governor Lawal to continue with his resolve to fulfil his mandate and work tirelessly to ensure that the people of Zamfara state experience the benefits of good governance. Governor Dauda Lawals rescue mission, which began on May 29th after his administration was sworn in, has already made remarkable strides in improving security, education, infrastructure, and agriculture. In a bid to locate a missing F-35 fighter jet, the US military has reached out to the public for assistance following the pilots ejection from the aircraft. The fighter jet reportedly went missing on Sunday afternoon when the pilot was flying over the southern state of South Carolina. The pilot, who has not been named, ejected and parachuted safely. He is in a stable condition in hospital, BBC reports. A US military facility, Joint Base Charleston, made the appeal in a post on its verified X account. They said, Were working with @MCASBeaufortSC (Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort) to locate an F-35 that was involved in a mishap this afternoon. The pilot ejected safely. If you have any information that may help our recovery teams locate the F-35, please call the Base Defense Operations Center at 843-963-3600. According to the statement, the search is focused north of JB Charleston, around Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion based on the jets last-known position. The search is being carried out with federal aviation regulators. The F-35 is reportedly one of the largest and most expensive weapons programme of its type in the world. Former President Olusegun Olusegun Obasanjo has reacted to the controversies being generated by his order to monarchs to stand and then sit during the inauguration of two projects in Iseyin, Oyo State last Friday. Obasanjo was a special guest of honour at the inauguration of the road projects constructed by Governor Seyi Makinde. However, rather than the projects, it was Obasanjos order to traditional rulers at the occasion to stand and then sit as depicted in a video that went viral and grabbed the headlines. Yoruba groups, monarchs and other critics have accused Obasanjo of disrespecting the traditional institution with the way he treated the kings at the occasion. Taiwo, one of the former wives of the former President also appealed to the traditional institutions in Yorubaland to forgive her former husband in a statement on Sunday. However, Obasanjo in an interview with Premium Times justified his action. He said he ordered the traditional rulers to stand during the occasion because they refused to do so during his arrival alongside Governor Makinde at the event. Obasanjo said the refusal of the traditional rulers to stand up was a disrespect for Governor Makinde and a breach of protocol. He added that the monarchs also refused to stand up when the Governor mounted the podium to read his address. The former President said he later learnt that the Obas have always shown disrespect for the Governor and thats why he decided to correct them at the occasion. It later became the turn of the governor to speak. As he rose, every other person at the venue, including me, stood up as demanded by protocol and in respect for the governor and his office. Again, the Obas refused to rise. They all remained seated. I then asked people around whether that was the practice in Oyo State. I was told the Obas have always displayed disrespect for their governor. I wondered where they got that from and then decided to speak to them about it. As far as I am concerned, there is constitution and there is culture. By our constitution, the governor is the leader of a state. Everyone must respect him no matter his or her status or age. He deserves respect no matter how young he is and protocols must be observed. That was why I spoke to them the way I did. I wanted them to realise that it is not part of Yoruba culture to disrespect authorities. Respect begets respect and they must learn to deal with their governor with respect if they want to be respected in return. Obasanjo noted that contrary to the criticisms that have trailed his action, he has a lot of respect for traditional rulers. I respect traditional rulers and even when I was President and till today, I treat them with reverence. I prostrate, bow and knee before them as necessary. I respect our culture. But let us also know that there is a Constitution which puts a chairman as head of a local government, a governor as head of a state and a president as head of our country. Whatever we do must be in respect for that arrangement. I am saying there is culture and there is constitution. One must not disturb the other. Two Wilmington, Delaware teenagers crashed a stolen car, then carjacked a Porsche vehicle in Atlantic County before making it back to Wilmington, where authorities arrested them on multiple charges in both states, authorities said. The incidents that led to their arrests occurred Saturday morning in Northfield, police there said. Northfield and the Delaware State Police gave this account: Officers in Northfield were called to a reported head-on crash at Shore Road and Mimi Court at 8:45 a.m. and arrived to find an injured motorist, and that six people had fled from another car. That other car had been reported stolen - from Smyrna, Delaware - and was abandoned near Wabash Avenue. The injured motorist had serious injuries and was taken to a local hospital. Moments later, Northfield got another call, for an armed home invasion in progress at a home on Wabash. A sergeant, Justin Heller, responded and saw a Porsche fleeing the scene and pursued it, but had to terminate the chase due to extremely dangerous driving by the person behind the wheel. Two males armed with a handgun had stolen the vehicle at gunpoint, snatching the keys and other property as well. Police tracked the vehicle and at 9:50 a.m., found it pinging in the area of Interstate 95 south near Route 202, just outside the city limits. Delaware troopers tracked and located the vehicle to Old Capital Trail, just west of the Wilmington city line. As the officers approached, two males ran from the vehicle, and the police apprehended them behind a nearby building. The teens (Northfield said they were 16, and Delaware later said 15) are charged with felony receiving stolen property and resisting arrest in Delaware, and a multitude of felonies in New Jersey, including robbery, burglary with attempted bodily injury, assault by auto, leaving the scene of an accident with serious bodily injury, motor vehicle theft and multiple firearm possession and conspiracy charges. The two arrested teens were later arraigned and sent to the New Castle County Detention Center on $21,000 cash bond. Atlantic County has already started extradition proceedings to brings the youths to New Jersey. Northfield police said theyre working with Delaware police on identifying the four occupants that fled the car crash. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com. UPDATE: This story has been updated to include comments from Ridgewood Mayor Paul Vagianos. The village council in Ridgewood is proceeding with plans to install an artificial turf field on a historic Bergen County property which has links to Gen. George Washington and the Revolutionary War despite vocal opposition from some residents. Bill Maher has backed out of his decision to host HBOs Real Time with Bill Maher without writers during the writers strike. When the Jersey-raised comedian and Writers Guild of America member made his initial decision public Sept. 13, he was called a scab and heavily criticized. My decision to return to work was made when it seemed nothing was happening and there was no end in sight to this strike. Now that both sides have agreed to go back to the negotiating table Im going to delay the return of Real Time, for now, and hope they can finally get this Bill Maher (@billmaher) September 18, 2023 An Irvington man serving 40 years in prison for killing a man during a robbery will get a new trial because detectives did not cease his police interrogation when he asked for a lawyer, an appeals court ruled Monday. A jury convicted Carlos McClean in late 2018 in the death of Jonathan Vargas Matildes, who a gunman shot in the back when he ran from a holdup behind an Irvington pizzeria where he worked, in August 2015. Matildes was a 27-year-old immigrant from Mexico. Two other people were with Matildes, and two other young men were with McClean, authorities and the appeals decision say. Prosecutors contend McClean, who is now 32, was the gunman. Testimony throughout the case differed as to who allegedly did what. In a police interview, McClean, who also uses the last name McLean, acknowledged he, Dorian Moody and another man were driving around that night looking to jump out and do a quick robbery. After finding the victims, McClean said he was armed with a handgun but did not fire it during the holdup. The third man fired a revolver at Matildes, McClean said. (The third man is identified in the appeals decision, but he was never charged in the crime.) Another of the victims identified McClean as the shooter, but the pizzeria owner said Moody was the person who committed the homicide, the decision says. (Moody took a plea deal for robbery and a firearm charge and is currently serving a 14-year prison term.) McClean repeated at trial his statements to police after the judge denied his lawyers motion to suppress his statements to detectives. The judge was wrong. The jury should never have heard McCleans version of events, the appeals court said. Two Essex County prosecutors detectives repeatedly failed to conclude McCleans key, second interview, in which he placed himself at the crime, after he asked for a lawyer. After being read his Fifth Amendment Miranda rights, McClean asked for a lawyer several times, using different words and phrases, and each time, detectives Carlos Olmo and Tyrone Crawley inquired and pressed McClean. Olmo specifically said, So am I to interpret that you want a lawyer at this time? And McClean said Yes. Then, I just want to ask you clearly is that what you want at this time? McClean said Yes. And, You want your lawyer. Youve got to speak up. McClean responded: Yes, yes, I want you to have a lawyer here,... The detectives even said they would stop the interview, but eventually got McClean to say it was alright to proceed without a lawyer. The detectives should have actually stopped the interview, and their failure to do so was a violation of McCleans rights. After a suspect or police halt an interview, a suspect can reinitiate and ask to talk to police, but there has to be an actual stop. Quoting case law, the appeals decision said, just as one cannot start an engine that is already running, a suspect cannot initiate an on-going interrogation. The Essex County Prosecutors Office argued McClean had reinitiated, and that due to the (overwhelming) evidence, any error in the judge admitting McCleans statements were harmless. The appeals court found no merit in that argument, and did not look at McCleans five other appeal arguments after finding the Miranda interview blunders were enough to order a new trial. Robert Florida, spokesman for the Essex County Prosecutors Office, said the office, is disappointed in todays decision, and we are currently reviewing our options going forward with this case. Brian P. Keenan, a state public defender, argued McCleans case. Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. Kevin Shea may be reached at kshea@njadvancemedia.com Prospect Park Mayor Mohamed T. Khairullah and 11 other Muslim-Americans on Monday filed a lawsuit against U.S. Department of Justice, the FBI and other security agencies, seeking to end the federal governments practice of maintaining a watch list of individuals in its effort to combat terrorism. Khairullah, who in May was barred from attending the annual Eid-al-Fitr celebration at the White House marking the end of Ramadan, joined with in a class-action lawsuit filed Monday by three state chapters of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. The suit, which names U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland and FBI director Christopher Wray among the defendants, calls on the FBI to stop using the Terrorism Screening Dataset, a secret list compiled by the FBI that contains the names of 1.5 million people. Khairullah emigrated from Syria in 1991 and became a U.S. citizen in 2000. Hes been elected mayor of Prospect Park in Passaic County five times, and travelled to Syria to deliver humanitarian aid during the civil war. But Khairullah said hes frequently interrogated at airports, and learned he was on the FBIs watch list in 2019 when he was invited to the White House in May, and then denied access. Khairullah said he and other Muslims are treated as second-class citizens, stripped of their constitutional right to due process. Since 2019, I discovered that if I dont do something now, my children, and their children, will probably be second-class citizens based on their ethnic and religious background. I discovered that as a second-class citizen, I am not entitled to due process offered to others by the Constitution. That my government can indeed accuse me, harass me, and tarnish my reputation without owing me an explanation or an apology if they were wrong. I discovered that merely my name can make me a suspect. Khairullah said he joined with CAIR and the other plaintiffs in filing a lawsuit against those who are responsible for allowing racism to exist deep inside the agencies that are supposed to protect us. CAIR has previously filed lawsuits against the FBI seeking to end the watch list, which it discovered in 2019 after it was erroneously made public on a server maintained by the airline CommuteAir. The server contained first and last names and dates of birth of 1.5 million people on the federal no-fly list, which CAIR says is 98% Muslim. Plaintiffs are law-abiding American citizens, lawful permanent residents and asylees, the lawsuit says. They work hard, pay their taxes, pursue their education, and care for their families. They have never been indicted, charged, or convicted of any terrorism-related offense. And yet, without any notice or explanation, the federal government extrajudicially sentenced them to a life of second-class citizenship. CAIRS senior litigation attorney, Gadeir Abbas, said tens of thousands of police agencies in the U.S. and around the world have access to the watch list, and because so many of the names are common, law-abiding Muslims are often subjected to unwarranted suspicion and interrogation. About 500 private companies also have access to the FBI watch list, he said. Abbas said hes never represented a client who was on the watch list who was charged with a terror-related offense. The government and private companies use it more as a screening tool, a violation of their constitutional rights. By putting people on the watch list, the FBI is telling every single police officer in the country, and every single private company that uses the watch list, to screen people, he said. Whether theyre pulling people over on the highway, whether theyre checking people at the border, or running clearance checks for the state and federal government. The goal is to collect all the information that can possibly be collected about the Muslim community. Abbas said the watch list was created in 2003, and has remained a system of comprehensive surveillance on the Muslim community. The FBI offered no response to the lawsuit, which was filed in federal court in Massachusetts on Monday. In an effort to protect the integrity of pending litigation, the FBI has no comment, a spokesman said. Joining CAIR at a press conference about the suit was Debra Jean Chandler, the vice chair of civic engagement for the Newark chapter of the NAACP, and Kevin Dawud Amin, an imam at a mosque in Montclair. Chandler said the watch list smacked of the FBI surveillance that the Muslim leader Malcolm X was put under during the 1960s. Enough is enough, Chandler said. We stand with our Muslim brothers and sisters. The White House has celebrated the Eid al-Fitr holiday with a live event since President Bill Clintons administration. Khairullah, a Democrat and close friend of Gov. Phil Murphy, said he received an invitation to the White House for the May 1 celebration. But the Secret Service wouldnt grant him a security clearance because his name was on the 2019 watch list, and he was denied entry, he said. The Secret Service confirmed he was denied access, but did not give a reason. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Richard Cowen may be reached at rcowen@njadvancemedia.com. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. A delegation headed by Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan Republic Jeyhun Bayramov has left for New York (USA) to participate in the 78th session of the UN General Assembly, Trend reports via the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry. It was noted that during the visit, Minister Jeyhun Bayramov is scheduled to address the plenary session of the UN General Assembly, participate in events to be held within the session, as well as bilateral meetings with officials of foreign countries. On Sunday, NJ.com debuted its first food festival Jersey Eats: A Taste of New Jersey. The event was held at 18 Label Studios in Montclair and sold out a few hours prior to the event with over 700 people arriving to try out a variety of foods from 19 vendors. The fun-filled day consisted of delicious eats, eager foodies, great music, cooking demonstrations from Teglia Pizza Bar, Amoria Tea, Butler and the Board, and Cubita Cafe, plus lots of full and happy faces around. Attendees sit and chat in one of the siting areas during The Jersey Eats: A Taste of North Jersey event at 18 Label Studios in Montclair on Sunday, September 17, 2023.Julian Leshay | For NJ Advance Media The next event will be at the Jersey Shore on Sunday, Oct. 8 in Asbury Park at The Asbury Hotel. Since our first event sold out, we highly recommend buying tickets prior to the Jersey Shore festival. Tickets can be purchased online. General admission is $15 and kids under 12 attend for free. Food and beverage will be available to sample, as well as to purchase onsite directly from vendors (cash and credit cards accepted). Food and products will cost between $5 to $25. Here are the 11 best things we ate at our first food festival: Pandan crossiant made by Vilma featured at Ayala Coffee at Jersey Eats: A Taste of New Jersey in Montclair (Lauren Musni | NJ Advance Media) 1. Pandan croissant, made by Vilma featured at Ayala Coffee Aside from Ayala Coffees sip-worthy lattes and beverages inspired by Filipino flavors, they collaborate with several Filipino-owned businesses including Vilma, whose pandan croissants ($6.99 each) were being featured on the coffee shops table at the festival. The flaky croissant was filled with the silkiest pandan (tropical plant that grows in Southeast Asia) cream that had a great balance of sweet and floral. Rahat Kamath, left, and Kishan Kamath, center, partners of Casa De Konkan, work together to serve a customer during The Jersey Eats: A Taste of North Jersey event at 18 Label Studios in Montclair on Sunday, September 17, 2023.Julian Leshay | For NJ Advance Media Casa de Konkan offers authentic Konkan cuisine. The Konkan Coast is a stretch of land in the western coastline of India. The menu highlighted several small plates, bowls and platters including their flavorful and spicy samosas. The crispy, savory pastries were topped with chutneys, sev (an Indian snack consisting of crunchy noodles made from chickpea flour paste) and pomegranate seeds. Empanadas from Cubita Cafe at Jersey Eats: A Taste of New Jersey in Montclair (Lauren Musni | NJ Advance Media) 3. Smoked oxtail with cheese and truffle egg empanadas, Cubita Cafe This Nutley-based restaurant with a food truck coming soon was selling four different kinds of empanadas. Although they were all tasty, two of them stood out. The smoked oxtail empanada was so tender and oozing with cheese. The truffle egg empanada was like a breakfast empanada with its truffle infused scrambled eggs inside and crust coasted with everything bagel seasoning. Trevon Woolford, chef and owner of The Brisket Guy BBQ in Springfield, puts together a brisket slider during The Jersey Eats: A Taste of North Jersey event at 18 Label Studios in Montclair on Sunday, September 17, 2023.Julian Leshay | For NJ Advance Media 4. Pulled Pork and Brisket Sliders, The Brisket Guy BBQ We already knew that everything at The Brisket Guys stand was going to be exceptional, especially since they ranked No. 6 on our best BBQ joints list. At the event, they were serving sliders with a choice of either brisket or pulled pork. The meat was soft, smokey and oh-so-juicy. Blue Jasmine Drink from Amoria Tea at Jersey Eats: A Taste of New Jersey in Montclair (Lauren Musni | NJ Advance Media) 5. Blue jasmine bubble tea, Amoria Tea This up-and-coming bubble tea concept does not have a storefront yet, but they should. I loved their blue jasmine drink mixing butterfly pea flower tea and jasmine tea with milk and boba. The cold drink was refreshing, flowery and sweet. Samples of Kobe beef elote hotdog by Park West Tavern, from Ridgewood, during The Jersey Eats: A Taste of North Jersey event at 18 Label Studios in Montclair on Sunday, September 17, 2023.Julian Leshay | For NJ Advance Media 6. Kobe elote hot dog, Park West Tavern This Ridgewood eatery was offering free samples of their kobe elote hot dogs. The toasted bun was stacked with meat, creamy elote and crisp microgreens. It was so good, I was surprised they were giving these small hot dogs away for free. KS Gonzalez, chef and owner of Tenmomi, makes a bowl of ramen for a customer during The Jersey Eats: A Taste of North Jersey event at 18 Label Studios in Montclair on Sunday, September 17, 2023.Julian Leshay | For NJ Advance Media 7. Truffle chili brothless ramen, Tenmomi Ramen I usually love broth with my ramen, but this ghost kitchen concept in Nutley executed it beautifully. Pork, egg, greens and some of the best chili oil Ive ever tasted topped the noodles creating an appetizing flavor sensation that did fine without the broth. Pizza from Teglia Pizza Bar in Montclair is cut into slices for people to sample during The Jersey Eats: A Taste of North Jersey event at 18 Label Studios in Montclair on Sunday, September 17, 2023.Julian Leshay | For NJ Advance Media 8. Sweet heat pizza, Teglia Pizza Bar If you see a pizza place at a food festival in New Jersey, you know were going to take it seriously. Teglia Pizza Bar laid out several samples of their pizza at the festival and I devoured their sweet heat pizza and came back for seconds. The fluffy rectangle crust layered cured and fresh Italian sausage, fontina and mozzarella cheeses, tomato, basil and Calabrian hot honey. It was protein packed, cheesy and hints of spicy and sweet from hot honey drizzle. Bread samples from Thumb Bread at Jersey Eats: A Taste of New Jersey in Montclair (Lauren Musni | NJ Advance Media) 9. Bread samples, Thumb Bread The bread made at Thumb Bread is vegan, hand-formed and small batch made by three sisters since 2007. At the festival, they gave out samples of the bread with various spreads such as Ithaca brand lemon beet hummus and melted cheese. The bread was so light and airy with a gorgeous crusty exterior. Jonathan Dela Cruz, chef and owner of Holy Grail Burgers in Englewood, presses down a burger patty during The Jersey Eats: A Taste of North Jersey event at 18 Label Studios in Montclair on Sunday, September 17, 2023.Julian Leshay | For NJ Advance Media After eating the peanut butter and jelly burger from Holy Grail Burgers, I can see why they chose the name as I would put this burger on a pedestal. The burger sandwiched a charred beef patty, dollops of peanut butter and jelly, bacon and onions. Flavors of salty, tart, nutty and sweet encapsulated this scrumptious sandwich. Saffron gold ice cream at Icecreamology in Union, NJ (Lauren Musni | NJ Advance Media) 11. Saffron gold ice cream, Icecreamology I visited Icecreamologys shop in Union a few weeks ago and their Greek flavors never fail to amaze me so I was ecstatic to see them at the festival. I had to get a few scoops of their saffron gold ice cream, made with saffron and rosewater with delicate notes of floral and honey. They were also offering other flavors such as glazed churro and baklava. 35 1 / 35 Jersey Eats: A Taste of North Jersey Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust. Lauren Musni may be reached at lmusni@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @Laurengmusni. Find NJ.com on Facebook. A New York man wanted in at least two states was arrested by Secaucus police after a traffic stop Friday, Secaucus Police Chief Dennis Miller said. Kevin Dadaille, 45, who was issued three motor vehicle summonses, was taken to Hudson County jail when police found that he was being sought by authorities in Pohatcong and Middlesex County in New Jersey and Enfield, Connecticut. Secaucus police stopped his vehicle Friday at 5:25 p.m. and found Dadaille had one warrant out of Enfield with no bail, one warrant issued out of the Middlesex County Prosecutors Office with no bail and one warrant issued out of Pohatcong in the amount of $500 with a 10% option. Six Powerball tickets worth $50,000 each were sold in New Jersey for Saturdays lottery drawing. The lucky third-prize Powerball tickets each matched four numbers plus the Powerball. They were sold at the following locations: B & C Deli on Belmont Avenue in South Plainfield 7-Eleven on Tabor Road in Morris Plains Frank Fine Wines & Food on Belmont Avenue in Haledon Quick Stop on Ringwood Avenue in Haskell section of Wanaque Nana Pena Grocery Deli Market on Trenton Avenue in Paterson. The remaining ticket was bought on Lotto.Com. Saturdays winning numbers were: 8, 11, 19, 24 and 46. The Powerball drawn was 5, with a Power Play of 2X. While no one across the country hit Saturdays $608 million jackpot, two $1 million tickets were sold in Arizona and Washington state. Each second-prize ticket matched five numbers but not the Powerball. In addition, no one won the secondary $10 million Double Play drawing on Saturday. The winning numbers were 10, 27, 30, 43 and 47. The Double Play Ball number drawn was 6. Mondays jackpot is worth an estimated $638 million with a cash option of $304.2 million The odds of hitting the Powerball jackpot are 292,201,388 to 1. A player who buys a $2 ticket has about a 1 in 11,688,053 chance to match five numbers and win at least $1 million, while the odds are 913,129 to 1 to win a third prize of at least $50,000. Powerball drawings are held each Monday, Wednesday and Saturday in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. Mark Canha felt helpless ahead of the Aug. 1 trade deadline. The Mets were underachieving and it seemed it would be a matter of time before he would be dealt. Then, on July 31, he heard the news that he was being traded to the Brewers for starting pitching prospect Justin Jarvis. BUY METS TICKETS: STUBHUB, VIVID SEATS, TICKETMASTER It turns out, being traded to Milwaukee was the best-case scenario for the veteran outfielder. Since being dealt, Canhas batting average has increased from .245 to .270, his on-base percentage from .343 to .364 and his slugging from .381 to .416. In Saturday nights 9-5 win over the Washington Nationals, Canha reminded Brewers fans why the team traded for him. With the score tied 5-5 in the bottom of the eighth inning, he hit a grand slam into the second deck in left field in American Family Field off of Kyle Finnegan. It was a no-doubter too! As soon as Canha flicked the bat, making contact with the ball, he paused to look. Then, after taking a couple of steps, flipped his bat before beginning his jog around the bases, the fans erupting as he went. A night Ill probably never forget, he posted on X (formerly Twitter). Thanks to the fans for giving us that unreal atmosphere! #BrewCrew. Since Aug. 1, his first game with the Brewers, he ranks eighth in the NL with a .319 batting average and sixth with a .404 on-base percentage. Milwaukee is currently in first place in the NL Central. It leads the Chicago Cubs by 6 1/2 games. The Mets are 27 games behind first place and 8 1/2 games behind the Wild Card. Their season is pretty much over. MORE SPORTS - Yankees increasingly interested in stud starter for 24 | Klapisch - When Yankees Isiah Kiner-Falefa, now a mentoring backup, realized Jasson Dominguez meant business - Giants have early optimism about Saquon Barkleys ankle 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. A Pennsylvania man was arrested at Newark Liberty International airport on Saturday after Transportation Security Administration officers at Newark Liberty International Airport found a loaded 9mm handgun in his backpack, TSA officials said on Monday. The detection and arrest on Sept. 16 makes 18 firearms detected so far this year, the highest number at Newark Airport in the past six years, according to the TSA. The record of 14 firearms was tied last month. Saturdays incident happened after TSA officers working a checkpoint in Terminal C detected the loaded gun while x-raying a backpack that the Canadensis, Pennsylvania, man was bringing on a flight, TSA officials said A woman was sentenced on Friday in a drunken crash that killed a man who was removing an item from the trunk of his car, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer said. Ashley Beams, 32, of Toms River, was sentenced to five years in state prison on a guilty plea of vehicular homicide. Her drivers license was also suspended for one year on a DUI conviction, prosecutors said. She pleaded guilty to both charges on July 24, 2023. Police were called to Bay Avenue near Twin Oaks Drive in Toms River about 10:30 p.m. on Feb. 8, 2022 for a report of a motor vehicle crash. Officers on the scene located James Cruz, 62, of Old Bridge, who had been struck during the crash, officials said. Investigators then determined that Beams was traveling east on Bay Avenue when her vehicle veered onto the shoulder and struck Cruz as he was removing a package from his trunk, authorities said. Cruz was then pinned between the two vehicles and was carried a significant distance east on Bay Avenue before being pronounced dead on the scene, prosecutors said. Beams was taken to Jersey Shore University Medical Center to be treated for her injuries. A blood draw taken at the hospital found that her blood alcohol concentration was .32%, four times the legal limit, officials said. She was initially charged with aggravated manslaughter, vehicular homicide and strict liability vehicular homicide and received multiple motor vehicle summonses including driving while intoxicated and reckless driving, prosecutors said. Her sentence is subject to the No Early Release Act, requiring her to serve 85% of the five-year prison term before being eligible for parole. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com. Six-day (Tuesday through Sunday) print subscribers of the Watertown Daily Times are eligible for full access to NNY360, the NNY360 mobile app, and the Watertown Daily Times e-edition, all at no additional cost. If you have an existing six-day print subscription to the Watertown Daily Times, please make sure your email address on file matches your NNY360 account email. You can sign up or manage your print subscription using the options below. Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corporation or Wabtec could invest nearly $1 bln in Kazakhstan's transport and logistics sector, Azernews reports, citing Interfax. Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with President and CEO of Wabtec Rafael Santana in New York to discuss possible cooperation in revitalizing the nation's railway industry. Santana updated Tokayev on active investment initiatives to launch the production of locomotives using hydrogen technology and their associated components in Kazakhstan. Additionally, they discussed the establishment of an engineering center and the transfer of advanced technology. Tokayev "welcomed the company's commitment to invest nearly $1 billion in the transport and logistics sector saying that this significant investment would contribute to advancing the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route and serve as a foundation for other infrastructure projects," according to the press service. A framework agreement on strategic cooperation between the joint stock company NC Kazakhstan Temir Zholy and Wabtec was signed during the Kazakh president's visit to the United States. Tokayev arrived in New York late Sunday. During this visit, he will deliver a speech at the general debate of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly and participate in the Central Asia - USA summit. Wabtec is a Fortune 500 company and global leader in transportation and logistics. The company has over 27,000 employees in more than countries. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Head of the State Security Service of Azerbaijan and chairman of the State Commission on Prisoners of War, Hostages, and Missing Citizens, Colonel General Ali Naghiyev has called on the Armenian population of Azerbaijan to live together with Azerbaijanis in peace, Trend reports. Naghiyev made the remark at an international conference on "Strengthening national and global efforts to determine the fate of missing persons". He emphasized that some Armenian ideologists, referring to history, raise the issue of impossibility of Armenians and Azerbaijanis co-existing. "Then the question arises: how before the outbreak of the military conflict, the Armenian population lived for a long time in Baku and other places in Azerbaijan, including Karabakh, in comfortable conditions, as respectable citizens?," he asked. Naghiyev also added that unlike mono-ethnic Armenia, the Russian, Georgian, Jewish and other peoples living in Azerbaijan today form the basis of a multi-ethnic and multi-confessional state. "We invite the Armenian population of Karabakh to reintegrate into Azerbaijani society. The Azerbaijani state and Azerbaijanis do not want war. Today, we are concerned about the rapid restoration of settlements destroyed as a result of military aggression and the return of 750,000 Azerbaijani IDPs to their homes as soon as possible," he said. his work is supported with a grant funded by the Walton Family Foundation and administered by the Society of Environmental Journalists. Email Mark Schleifstein at mschleifstein@theadvocate.com or follow him on Twitter, @MSchleifstein. The "Unleased! Rescue Me Gala" will benefit homeless animals, like these little pups, that are temporarily housed at the Northshore Humane Society in Covington. The Oct. 7 fundraiser will be held at the Pontchartrain Yacht Clubs on Mandeville's lakefront. The stage at St. Margaret Mary school will be named for veteran teacher Norma Ladner, who often used plays and talent shows to teach her students to laugh and learn and develop in new ways. A man who disappeared while kayaking in the Mississippi River near Hahnville in August faked his death while out on bond for child sexual abuse charges in another state, according to the St. Charles Parish Sheriff's Office. Melvin Phillip Emde, 41, of Talihina, Oklahoma, did not drown when he slipped overboard and into the river just after midnight on Aug. 7, authorities said. Emde was found alive and well in Tift County, Georgia, about 3:30 a.m. Sunday where a Georgia Highway Patrol officer arrested him following a traffic stop, the Sheriff's Office said. Emde's son reported him missing back in August, telling deputies that his father drowned near Matis Road in Hahnville. Authorities began a search of the river for any sign of Emde. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has addressed the participants of the international conference themed "Increasing national and global efforts to clarify the fate of missing persons", Trend reports. "Dear conference participants! I welcome you to the international conference on missing persons during armed conflicts. The issue of missing persons is one of the most topical problems facing Azerbaijan, and the theme of the conference is of special relevance for our country. During the first Karabakh war, a total of 3,890 of our fellow citizens went missing as a result of Armenian occupation of the territories of Azerbaijan. There is irrefutable evidence that 872 of the total number of missing persons were taken as prisoners of war or remained in the previously occupied territories. According to reliable information, the missing persons were tortured, murdered by Armenia and buried in mass graves in the previously occupied territories of Azerbaijan. The issue of clarifying the fate of missing persons has always been in the spotlight for the state of Azerbaijan. In 1993, the State Commission on Prisoners of War, Missing Persons and Hostages was established and has been operating effectively over the years. The liberation of Azerbaijani lands from occupation in 2020 ushered new opportunities for clarifying the fate of the persons who went missing in the First Karabakh war. However, the contamination of our territories with mines and unexploded military ordnance by Armenia creates serious obstacles to the process of identifying mass graves and carrying out exhumation work. Immediately after the Patriotic War, important steps were taken to strengthen the capacity of the State Commission, determine the places of mass graves in the territories freed from occupation, and necessary excavation and exhumation work was started. In the last two years, 10 mass graves were discovered as a result of excavations in the liberated territories. As a result of the urgent measures taken, it has been possible to identify 15 missing persons, and the public was informed about it. Additional information about 10 more people will be provided today. I offer my deepest condolences to the families of our missing martyrs, whose fate has been determined, and wish them patience. Clarifying the fate of our citizens who disappeared 30 years ago is not only a serious public event, but also a clear example of the value the state of Azerbaijan attaches to its citizens. Let me assure the families of the missing persons that we will not spare efforts to clarify the fate of all those who went missing in the battles for the Motherland. In the post-conflict period, the issue of missing persons has been highlighted by us in all relevant meetings and negotiations with Armenia, especially in the Brussels and Washington platforms. Unfortunately, Armenia flagrantly violates its obligations under international humanitarian law and does not provide Azerbaijan with information about the missing persons and the exact location of mass graves. The reasons for this are obvious. Armenia believes that this will expose its further war crimes and atrocities. The international community should put pressure on Armenia to submit information on the fate of missing persons and the location of mass graves to the Azerbaijani side. This is a purely humanitarian issue and its politicization is unacceptable. Determining the fate of missing persons is also important in terms of reconciliation and normalization of Armenian-Azerbaijani relations. Cooperation in this area can be one of the effective trust-building measures. The issue of missing persons during armed conflicts is a global problem. Azerbaijan has taken serious steps to increase international attention to this issue. Our country put forward a resolution on missing persons in the UN General Assembly every two years. We believe that there is a need for establishing a special mechanism for missing persons within the UN system. I am sure that the conference will contribute to the attraction of attention of the international community to the painful issue of clarifying the fate of missing persons. I wish you all the best and the conference success," President Ilham Aliyev said. Is the journey to enduring peace bound to wander through periods of profound suffering, born from humanitys persistent grip on old patterns of behavior? Or might it be illuminated by fostering a vision of a shared identity and common purpose? This was the question raised by Ramazan Asgarli, a member of Azerbaijans Bahai Office of External Affairs, at a national conference titled Challenges and Perspectives on Achieving Coexistence. The conference was held by the State Committee on Religious Associations and the Bahai community of Azerbaijan, with the participation of members of parliament and other government officials, academics, representatives of faith communities, civil society leaders, and journalists. This conference followed from an earlier national gathering exploring the theme of coexistence. The Chairperson of the State Committee, Mubariz Qurbanli, spoke about the present struggles toward peace, stating that they are a sign of humanitys need for finding new ways of life and developing new kinds of relationships. Mr. Asgarli added that achieving tolerance, while a lofty goal, can be seen as a signpost on the path to higher degrees of societal unity, as humanity recognizes its essential oneness. Mr. Qurbanli highlighted other Bahai principles that are essential for humanitys movement toward peace, including the equality of women and men, the harmony between religion and science, and the integration of worship and service. Recognizing a shared identity The theme of identity featured prominently in discussions at the gathering. There is a difference between being accepted and being valued in society, said Mr. Asgarli. Being accepted means you can live in this society, we tolerate you, but being valued is a higher ideal. He further noted that the distinction between acceptance and value is a key issue to address when grappling with societal divisions. At the heart of these divisions, he emphasized, is a crisis of identity, as peoples and groups struggle to define themselves and their place in the world. Despite this, he noted, there is growing recognition of the need to foster a sense of shared identity based on oneness. Building on this idea, Mr. Asgarli emphasized that differences among people, particularly their different faiths, should not be a cause for conflict. Instead, they should be seen as enriching facets of a shared identity. Fazail Ibrahimli, vice-speaker of Parliament, stated that the followers of all religions should work hand in hand for the strength of our country. Mr. Asgarli added: A sign of a healthy, cohesive society is the realization that we are all one people, sharing one homelandthe planet itself. It is in this context, he continued, that we can begin the project of writing the next chapter in the story of inclusivity and coexistence in Azerbaijan. Transcending differences through consultation Participants noted that a constructive element of the conference was genuine consultation among people open to exploring the future of their country. We wish to have a society increasingly characterized by cooperation, said Mr. Asgarli, adding that consultation is an essential instrument in translating this ideal into reality. Consultation characterized by justice will enable discussions that are open and sincere, inspiring people with diverse views to set aside their prejudices and avoid any sense of superiority, he said. The president of the cultural association Simurgh, Fuad Mammadov, elaborated on this idea saying that consultation can harmonize diverse perspectives and contribute to the betterment of society. Building bonds of friendship in neighborhoods Discussions at the conference highlighted the important role of neighborhoods in strengthening social harmony. It is in neighborhoods that spiritual bonds formed among people can help them to resist harmful social forces and where people can serve the needs of their fellow citizens. Peaceful coexistence starts from the heart of the individual; from inside his or her home; from his or her neighborhood, said Mr. Asgarli. A proposal emerging from the gathering was to promote regular discussion forums at all levels of Azerbaijani society to explore themes such as service to ones fellow citizens. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. The opening of the Aghdam-Khankendi road is the beginning of the practical reintegration of Karabakh Armenians into the political and legal space of Azerbaijan, Igor Korotchenko, general director of the Caspian Institute for Strategic Studies (Russia), wrote on social networks, Trend reports. "Now there is no "blockade", "mass starvation," or "genocide"the propaganda husk has come off. As much as the separatists and their lobbyists did not hinder the opening of the Aghdam-Khankendi road, this transportation artery finally started working. At the same time, traffic on the Lachin road was opened with observance of border and customs procedures established by Azerbaijani legislation," he emphasized. Moreover, the separatists in Karabakh finally submitted to Azerbaijan's conditions and agreed to the simultaneous opening of the Lachin road and the Aghdam-Khankendi road. Thus, the separatist leaders stated that they decided to accept the joint proposal of the Khankendi office of the International Committee of the Red Cross and the command of the Russian peacekeepers on simultaneous transportation of food by ICRC vehicles along the Lachin road and the Aghdam-Khankendi road. In fact, there was an agreement on the simultaneous opening of these routes as early as September 1. The separatists expediently delayed this process. Also, the vehicles of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) crossed the Lachin border checkpoint parallel to the Aghdam-Khankendi road without hindrance on September 18. LANSING Police say an 18-year-old and 16-year-old are responsible for two armed robberies that occurred last week in the south suburbs. Lansing police said they were called out around 2 p.m. Wednesday to the 18100 block of School Street where a woman told them a black vehicle approached her and two people carrying a gun demanded her belongings. "The vehicle the offenders arrived in was reported stolen from Evergreen Park, Illinois," police said. "Later in the day, the offenders committed a second armed robbery in South Holland, Illinois." None of the victims were injured during these robberies, police said. The vehicle in question was located with the help of Illinois State Police, Chicago Police and other agencies. "After a pursuit, the vehicle became disabled in the 1200 block of 87th Street, Chicago and the occupants were taken into custody." Police said they arrested Eddie Payton, 18, Burnham, Illinois and a 16-year old female, who have each been charged with armed robbery. Payton is being held without bail and the girl was taken to the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center. VALPARAISO Yet another local man has been nabbed by a vigilante group for showing up to have sex with what he thought was an underage girl, according to charging information. "You can talk dirty to me you if ya want," the accused James Wyatt reportedly said to the decoy in a text message conversation found by Valparaiso police. "I can teach you." Wyatt, 50, of Liberty Township, who was arrested Wednesday, was to appear Monday morning before Porter Superior Court Judge Mike Fish for an initial hearing on a felony count of child solicitation. Valparaiso police said they were called out Dec. 19 to the 400 block of Sturdy Road where a member of an online vigilante group targeting child predators was live streaming on social media an alleged attempt by Wyatt to meet an underage girl for sex. A representative of the group said they had been communicating with Wyatt for about three weeks, though he allegedly thought he was conversing with a 13-year-old girl, police said. On the day Wyatt was to travel to the girl's house for sex, members of the group said they went to his house and followed him to a trailer that had been set up as the target site. A decoy posing as the underage girl met Wyatt and then other members of the vigilante group confronted him and contacted police. The group said they were contacted by Wyatt on the Grinder app, which is typically used for same-sex encounters. The app is the same used by a vigilante group just more than a week ago to nab Zachary Crohan, 25, of Valparaiso, for also allegedly trying to meet a 13-year-old girl for sex, records show. An online group identifying itself as NWI Predator Catchers set up that sting, which led to Crohan being arrested by Valparaiso police on two felony counts of child solicitation. It is unclear if the same group is responsible for Wyatt's arrest, but a representative told police they recorded three phone calls with Wyatt and had record of text messages. Wyatt was repeatedly told the girl was just 13, the group said, but he allegedly asked if they could cuddle, watch pornography and requested nude photographs. Police said they approached Wyatt, who was carrying a bag of candy requested by the decoy, and when asked what he was doing, said, "Being stupid, man. I was gonna ask her for her I.D. before anything even happened, man." Portage restaurant worker accused of having sex with underage co-worker, charges say He reportedly knew what he was doing was wrong and told her, "In the Greek culture this is perfectly normal." Wyatt said further, "I was coming here because she seemed like she was a nice girl," police said. He admitted to police he had made a "stupid" decision, but argued he had not even touched her, according to a charging document. "This is my first time," Wyatt reportedly told officers as they took him into custody. While such vigilante efforts have gained popularity online, Portage police warned several years ago against the practice upon learning of another area vigilante group shooting a similar video of a confrontation. "People who do that are taking a huge risk," Portage police Sgt. Rob Maynard said the time. "This could have went poorly for that young man out there." While the outcome of these cases can result in criminal charges against those confronted, there also could be legal consequences for those posting the video, Maynard said. According to data from the Indiana Department of Environmental Management, since the summer of 2021 some 261 acres of Indiana wetlands have been destroyed. Even before the law was passed, about 85% of Indiana's historical wetlands had been drained, including the Grand Kankakee Marsh in Northwest Indiana. The Grand Kankakee Marsh system once stretched all the way from South Bend to Momence, IL, making it the largest inland wetland in North America. St. Jean, who teaches Indiana history, environmental history and Native American history, said the Kankakee Marsh was an important source of food. Indigenous tribes like the Potawatomi used the wetland to hunt waterfowl and collect wild rice. As white settlers began to develop the Region, the marsh was drained and filled to make way for farmland and industry. Wetlands play a key roll in reducing the risk of flooding, filtering stormwater and cultivating biodiversity. Professor Barbara Mania-Farnell, who teaches in PNW's Biological Sciences Department said climate change is already reshaping Indiana's biodiversity. Data from Purdue University shows that Indiana's average temperature hasnincreased by about 1.2F since 1895. Temperatures are expected to continue rising and the Hoosier state will likely experience more heavy rain events. "We're already seeing the impacts of climate change in Indiana," Mania-Farnell said, telling the group of students seated at her table that addressing these changes "is really going to be up to young people." This August the Munster High Environmental Club created a petition, demanding state lawmakers restore the wetland protections stripped in 2021, create policies that protect and restore wetlands and engage in statewide environmental planning. The paper petition has been circulated during a number of community events and has already received over 500 signatures. Hestjean said the group's goal is 2,000. The Munster High Environmental Science Club's staff sponsor, Mike Bakker, said the group hopes to partner with other area high schools on future events and projects. The club also wants to work with PNW's newly-formed Multidisciplinary Environmental Alliance which currently includes about seven professors and Bakker. "I feel like this is my way to make a difference in the world, by getting our youth involved in the activism side of things, since it's them, they're the who are going to be hurt by this if things don't change," Bakker explained. The Munster High Environmental Science Club can be reached on Facebook at MHS Environmental Science Club. The longtime institution Patti's All-American Gymnastics in Dyer was recognized for its longevity. The gymnastics center at 1530 Joliet St. in Dyer won the Governor's Half Century Award in recognition of its more than 50 years in business. Owner and founder Patti Komara and Vice President of Operations Diane Spevacek accepted the award from Gov. Eric Holcomb at the Indiana State House in Indianapolis. Komara started the business in a church hall in 1969. Patti's All-American Gymnastics offers classes on gymnastics, tumbling, All-American Ninja, swimming and dance. It teaches gymnastics to both boys and girls between 6 months and 18 years old and runs an educational preschool called Gym-N-Learn. Komara has earned a number of honors, including being named National Gym Owner of the Year twice by USA Gymnastics, Client of the Year by Action International, Most Influential Business Woman of the Year by Northwest Indiana Influential Women Association and Small Business Person of the Year by the Northwest Indiana Small Business Development Center. She's talked about her success at every USA Gymnastics National Conference since 1981. She's served on national boards, wrote a national preschool gymnastics training book and was named to the USA Gymnastics Region 5 Hall of Fame. Komara has produced more than 150 instructional videos and written articles, a blog, e-blast tips and books on yearly lesson plans for the Tumblebear Gym Program. It has been such an honor to lead my staff for the last 54 years to a high level of service and teaching children. I am humbled by our success and proud of all those wonderful staff members who have helped us get here. We have people like Tina Okerstrom, who has been here for 27 years, Tracy Stella and Robin Arvanitis for 25 years, and Diane Spevacek, who has been here for 34 years," Komara said. "Thanks to them and all the hundreds of staff members who have led this company. U.S. Sen. Mike Braun, R-Ind., is backing Donald Trump for a second term as president, notwithstanding the 91 pending felony charges against the former chief executive. Braun said in a statement issued Monday that he's endorsing Trump for president over former Indiana Gov. Mike Pence and the other GOP candidates in the race because Trump is a "businessman" and a political "outsider" similar to Braun. "Together we took on the Washington swamp with a historic victory in the 2018 Indiana Senate race. We installed constitutional conservatives on the Supreme Court who have protected the unborn and our Second Amendment rights, and we disrupted the cozy, self-serving Washington elites who are bankrupting our country," Braun said. Ironically, Braun no longer will be in Washington if Trump becomes the first president since Grover Cleveland in 1892 to win election to nonconsecutive terms. Braun has opted against a Senate reelection bid next year to instead seek the Republican nomination for Indiana governor. Nevertheless, Braun believes Trump is the only Republican presidential candidate who understands how the "Washington swamp works against Hoosiers, and works overtime to hamper our prosperity." "Donald Trump is the candidate capable of returning us to the 'America First' policies that delivered unmatched prosperity and security for the American people. I give Donald Trump my endorsement for president of the United States," Braun said. In contrast, U.S. Sen. Todd Young, R-Ind., has declined to endorse Trump in the Republican primary, citing Trump's refusal to call Vladimir Putin a war criminal for Russian atrocities in Ukraine and Trump's inability to win elections for either himself or others. "I can't think of someone worse equipped to bring people together to pass legislation and advance our collective values than the former president," Young told HuffPost in May. Gallery: Get to know these new Indiana laws that took effect July 1 AirTags Alcohol permits Animal facilities Annexation Book bans Bullying Charter schools Child molesting Childrens hospitals Domestic violence Drinking water Electric/hybrid vehicles Encroachment FAFSA Financial literacy Firefighting equipment Food and beverage tax Gender-affirming care Gary schools Gasoline tax Human trafficking Illiana Expressway Inmate gender Insurance fund Juror pay Juveniles Lake County convention center Lake County recorder Landlords Little Calumet River Lost farmland Machine guns Mail-in ballots Mental health Military bases Military pay Pension investments Public health School board elections Service animals Sex education SNAP assistance Speed cameras State comptroller Storage units Tax sales Taxpayer receipt Teachers unions Throwing stars Transit Development District 21st Century Scholars Valparaiso lawsuit Xylazine Attorney General Todd Rokita was formally accused Monday of violating the professional conduct rules for Indiana attorneys and may face discipline by the Supreme Court, including potential disbarment and loss of his elected office. In response, Rokita said he's being targeted by "radicals" seeking to intimidate and cancel him because he's a "passionate fighter" who is "beating back the culture of death, grievance and 'transanity' being pushed by radicals in workplaces, schools, media and government." The allegations stem from repeated public statements made last year by the first-term Republican, originally from Munster, in connection with an investigation by his office into whether the proper reporting procedures were followed when a 10-year-old girl from Ohio, who became pregnant as a result of rape, obtained an abortion in Indiana after abortion access was sharply restricted in Ohio. Under Indiana law, all complaints and information relating to misconduct allegations against licensed medical professionals are required to be held "in strict confidence" until the attorney general files notice he intends to prosecute the licensee before the state's governor-appointed Medical Licensing Board. The statute specifies that disclosures relating to such complaints only may be made if required by law, necessary to advance an investigation, or when provided to a law enforcement agency with jurisdiction over a person or matter involved in the complaint. In this case, the Disciplinary Commission detailed how Rokita appeared on the nationally televised Fox News Channel July 13, 2022, and not only disclosed the existence of an investigation into whether Dr. Caitlin Bernard failed to properly report the 10 year old's abortion, but also described Bernard as an "abortion activist acting as a doctor with a history of failing to report." "Parents need to know. Authorities need to know. Public policy experts need to know. We all need to know as citizens in a free republic, so we can stop this. This is a horrible, horrible scene. Caused by Marxists, socialists, and those in the White House who don't, who want lawlessness at the border. And then this girl was politicized politicized for the gain of killing more babies. All right, that was the goal. And this abortion activist is out there front and center," Rokita said on the Fox News program. According to the Disciplinary Commission, Rokita subsequently discussed specific factors of the Bernard investigation in public statements, press releases, Facebook Live broadcasts and news media interviews between July and September 2022 long before Nov. 30 when the attorney general's office filed an administrative complaint against Bernard with the Medical Licensing Board, and when none of the statutory exceptions to the confidentiality requirement applied. The commission also noted that Bernard did report the abortion she performed on the 10-year-old Ohio girl to the Indiana Department of Health and the Indiana Department of Child Services on July 2, 2022, as required by law. Moreover, it found none of the seven consumer complaints against Bernard received by the attorney general in connection with the 10 year old's abortion which served in part as the basis for Rokita's investigation were submitted by patients of Bernard. As a result, the Disciplinary Commission said Rokita's infringement of state law relating to the privacy of investigations by his office violated three of the rules all Indiana attorneys agree to follow as a condition of practicing law in the Hoosier State, including prohibitions against making public statements likely to prejudice an adjudicative proceeding; impugning the character, credibility, reputation or record of a party to an investigation; and engaging in conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice. The Indiana Rules of Professional Conduct also note: "Lawyers holding public office assume legal responsibilities going beyond those of other citizens." The Disciplinary Commission asked in its complaint that the Indiana Supreme Court, which regulates the conduct of Hoosier attorneys and enforces discipline, when warranted, take appropriate action against Rokita's license to practice law. The five justices all initially appointed by Republican governors likely will select a hearing officer in coming days to investigate the Disciplinary Commission's complaint and report back with any recommended sanctions against Rokita. The discipline options available to the high court, in order of severity, are: No action; a private reprimand; a public reprimand; a temporary law license suspension with automatic reinstatement; an extended law license suspension without automatic reinstatement; or disbarment. Disbarment would have the double effect of forcing Rokita from office prior to the end of his term in January 2025 and likely prevent him from seeking reelection next year because state law requires the attorney general be a licensed attorney. Separately, the Republican-controlled General Assembly could act to remove Rokita through impeachment for allegedly violating state law relating to the confidentiality of investigations. Rokita, on the other hand, insisted he did nothing wrong because Bernard also discussed in television interviews the abortion she performed on the Ohio 10-year-old, breaching her duty of confidentiality by publicly discussing patient information. In May, the Medical Licensing Board fined Bernard $3,000 and issued a letter of reprimand for the alleged privacy violation, but took no action against her license despite Rokita also accusing Bernard of failing to report child abuse and being unfit to practice medicine. Rokita subsequently filed a lawsuit Friday on behalf of the state against Bernard's employer, IU Health, accusing Indiana's largest health care system of failing to properly report, review and enforce federal and state medical privacy law violations, due in part to the Bernard case. "We will continue defending Indiana's laws and ensure that licensed medical professionals and other health care providers are held accountable when they violate their patients' privacy and fail to obtain consent," Rokita said. "This work certainly includes vindicating vulnerable children (our most precious gift) for having their privacy rights unlawfully violated without consent by health care providers to further their political agenda and their 'bottom line.' I won't stop in this and my other work." Rokita also claimed in his response to the Disciplinary Commission that his public statements related to the Bernard case were necessary to keep the public informed of a high-profile investigation, in accordance with his duties as an elected official. In addition, Rokita suggested it's unclear whether the investigation confidentiality requirement applies to the attorney general himself, or only to employees of the attorney general's office. Rebecca Gibron, CEO of Planned Parenthood in Indiana, once the states largest abortion provider, said its appropriate Rokita finally is in the "hot seat" after he repeatedly engaged in harassment against health care providers," and undertook other "aggressive anti-abortion antics in pursuit of five minutes of fame." "Rokita's flame fanning at the expense of a 10-year-old rape survivor has hurt Hoosiers long enough, now hes the one getting burned," Gibron said. Rokita is the second consecutive Republican attorney general to be accused by the Disciplinary Commission of violating Indiana's Rules of Professional Conduct. In 2020, the law license of then-Attorney General Curtis Hill, a candidate for the 2024 GOP gubernatorial nomination, was suspended for 30 days by the Indiana Supreme Court after it unanimously determined Hill committed misdemeanor battery by groping the backs or buttocks of four women in a "rude" or "insolent" manner during a March 15, 2018, party at an Indianapolis bar. Gallery: Get to know these new Indiana laws that took effect July 1 AirTags Alcohol permits Animal facilities Annexation Book bans Bullying Charter schools Child molesting Childrens hospitals Domestic violence Drinking water Electric/hybrid vehicles Encroachment FAFSA Financial literacy Firefighting equipment Food and beverage tax Gender-affirming care Gary schools Gasoline tax Human trafficking Illiana Expressway Inmate gender Insurance fund Juror pay Juveniles Lake County convention center Lake County recorder Landlords Little Calumet River Lost farmland Machine guns Mail-in ballots Mental health Military bases Military pay Pension investments Public health School board elections Service animals Sex education SNAP assistance Speed cameras State comptroller Storage units Tax sales Taxpayer receipt Teachers unions Throwing stars Transit Development District 21st Century Scholars Valparaiso lawsuit Xylazine Gov. Gavin Newsom of California said that he would sign a landmark climate bill that passed the states legislature last week requiring major companies to publicly disclose their greenhouse gas emissions, a move with national and global repercussions. The new law will require about 5,000 companies to report the amount of greenhouse gas pollution that is directly emitted by their operations and also the amount of indirect emissions like employee travel, waste disposal and supply chains. Climate policy advocates have long argued that such disclosures are an essential first step in efforts to harness financial markets to rein in planet-warming pollution. For example, when investors are made aware of the climate-warming impacts of a company, they may choose to steer their money elsewhere. The law would apply to public and private businesses that make more than $1 billion annually and operate in California. But because the state is the worlds fifth-largest economy, California often sets the trend for the nation, and many of the affected businesses are global corporations. Irish Beatrice Grinstead was born on June 2, 1980, in Harris, Texas, to Carlton and Theresa (Washington) Grinstead. She began singing around the age of 10. With LeMisha and Irishs twin sister, Orish, they performed at sports events and other venues in Las Vegas, where the sisters had grown up. They occasionally sang at Caesars Palace, the hotel and casino. The comedian Sinbad saw them there and encouraged them to go to Atlanta for a music convention. During that event they cornered the musician and producer Michael Bivins in a hotel lobby and persuaded him to give them a chance. He did, supplied them with their band name as well and signed them to a record contract. All three were still in their teens. But before the trio recorded their first album, Orish dropped out, making room for Ms. Williams, a friend of the Grinstead girls since the 6th grade. People are asking me for my autograph, Irish told The Review-Journal in wonderment in 1999, and we were just talking to each other at school. The group released its last album, Star, in 2003 and broke up soon after. They resumed doing shows more recently, with several scheduled through the rest of this year. Olivia Rodrigos new album, Guts, has a blockbuster opening at No. 1 on Billboards chart, and the latest solo release by a member of BTS Vs Layover starts at No. 2. Guts, the second LP by the 20-year-old Rodrigo, becomes her second No. 1 album, after Sour (2021), the debut that made her an instant star. Guts opened with the equivalent of 302,000 sales in the United States, according to the tracking service Luminate a hair better than Rodrigo had for the opening of Sour, which arrived with 295,000 and eventually spent five weeks in the top spot. Guts has the fourth-biggest opening of any album this year so far, after Taylor Swifts Speak Now (Taylors Version) (716,000), Morgan Wallens One Thing at a Time (501,000) and Travis Scotts Utopia (496,000). Rodrigos single Vampire, which debuted at No. 1 on the Hot 100 in July, returns to No. 1 this week, rising from No. 9. Rodrigos new album, which is also No. 1 in Britain, Canada, Australia and elsewhere, had 200 million streams in the United States and sold 150,000 copies as a complete package. Guts was offered in an array of physical configurations, including 13 vinyl editions, four on CD, a cassette and various deluxe boxed sets. Last week, Rodrigo announced a 75-date world tour to begin in February 2024. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Speaking on the current tensions, it was a failure of the international community that a peaceful resolution wasnt achieved between Azerbaijan and Armenia, former US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs David Merkel said during an international conference on "Enhancing National and International Efforts to Clarify the Fates of Missing Persons," Trend reports. "I have traveled to Azerbaijan for over 25 years and right from the beginning I was educated about the massacre on February 1992 in Khojaly. This is something that informs Azerbaijan of history, but its also a personal story. These people, anyone who loses a loved one, need to have certain closure on what the finale was for their loved one," Merkel noted. He also noted that the existence of the tragedy that happened during the first Karabakh war and the tragedy that happened 2 years ago can not be ignored. "I think it is right to find out what has happened to those people who have disappeared, right for the families who suffered so much, right for the country," he said. He added that it was a failure of the international community, the US as well, that a peaceful resolution wasnt achieved. He expressed hope that a peaceful settlement can take place soon. The international conference on "Enhancement of national and international efforts aimed at clarifying the fate of missing persons" is being held in Baku on September 18 under the organization of the State Commission of Azerbaijan for Prisoners of War, Hostages and Missing Citizens with participation of former heads of state and governments of foreign countries, representatives of international organizations, including structures operating in the humanitarian sphere, as well as international political experts. Rather than early-19th-century sailors, these people suggest contemporary bourgeois beachgoers, much like the oblivious leisure-seekers of the recent opera-installation Sun & Sea, too focused on tanning to perceive rising seas or the migrants lost in them. Jean-Charles (the forthright baritone Gunter Papendell) here might be an accountant or lawyer. Benches come together to form the raft and are occasionally detached to use as platforms around the pool. Death (the soprano Gloria Rehm, her voice never too harsh or hard) is here a glamorous diva in a sparkling, skintight black gown. As they expire, the choristers trudge out of the water and back to their seats, so we in the audience end up eerily immersed in the ghostly sound of the afterlife. In both Gericaults painting and Kratzers production, a lone Black figure is a focal point. Unlike the paintings heroic savior, waving red fabric to get the attention of a ship on the horizon, the stagings Charon, a Black woman (the resonant mezzo-soprano Idunnu Munch), is a pained, helpless witness: an aid worker in a rowboat too small to save anyone. With the production already depicting the bourgeoisie transformed into desperate refugees, forced to undergo agonies they usually ignore, this casting decision furthers the sense of a reversal of the standard order of things, in which whites look on (or not) as people of color suffer. Its an intriguing decision. But in attempting to mix realism and stylization, Kratzer tends too naturalistic. As the shipwrecked passengers first scramble en masse toward the raft, splashing violently in the water, the sight is powerful. Later on, though, the survivors reaching, grasping hands and twitching bodies come off as strenuous cliche, lessening rather than increasing the intensity and depth of feeling. Its not necessary to see an actor dressed as the Jesus that some of the poor souls hallucinate in their hunger, thirst and fear. But near the end, the hangars tremendous door, near the side of the pool opposite the orchestra, slowly slides open. The temperature drops as the fresh night air pours in, and you get a tiny, terrifying glimpse of the relief that people in such a situation might find in death. The survivors emerge from the pool and walk out toward the dark, vast expanse of Tempelhof Field, led by an emergency van. It would have been obvious, even without the van, that this forlorn procession was meant to evoke the path taken by the migrants who have been housed at Tempelhof over the past decade. But the opening of the door was a true, visceral dramatic coup, a fitting climax for a staging with the heft to feel worthy of a remarkable space. The Raft of the Medusa Through Oct. 3 at Tempelhof Airport, Berlin; komische-oper-berlin.de. That was when, around the beginning of the current writers strike, posters on social media circulated clips from Conan OBriens return to NBCs Late Night during the 2007-8 writers strike, when he vamped for time by spinning his wedding ring on his desktop and sang Blue Moon of Kentucky in a cowboy hat. OBrien was called a legend for calling attention to how much he needed his writers he did not make his solo labors look effortless not to mention, digging into his own pocket to pay around 75 staffers. But as this years strike went on, the guild and its vocal supporters made clear that any hosts restarting their shows during this walkout would not be showered with likes. The guild operated under different contract language in OBriens time, and W.G.A. members have said that something like his return to air would today be considered strikebreaking because airing the show inevitably involves creative work that constitutes writing. The producers of todays returning talk shows, of course, disagree. I cannot adjudicate this dispute as a lawyer. I can say, as a writer, that physically writing down words is the easiest part of the job (even for a hunt-and-peck typist like me). Planning, shaping ideas, making notes, generating questions, coming up with original concepts all of this is the work of writing, whether or not you consider it the act of writing. Regardless, I dont think todays backlash is the result of contract wording or a philosophical shift on the nature of the scribes craft. Support for unions across America is rising a 2022 Gallup poll found it at its highest level since 1965 which has translated into 72 percent of Americans siding with the writers over the studios. And like every strong feeling today, this one gets amplified in social media, especially when there are famous faces like Mahers and Barrymores to aim at. The talk-show returns of 2007-8 were not without controversy. Ellen DeGeneres and Jay Leno were criticized by the W.G.A. for doing monologues. (David Letterman returned to air with a full staff because his production company, Worldwide Pants, struck its own deal with the writers.) Even Jon Stewart, in the prime of his late-aughts iconhood, took some heat for scabbing. But by and large, these hobbled strike episodes were seen as testaments to the need for writers, produced more in sorrow than defiance. Yet lately it has occurred to me that Lahiri came of age in circumstances very different from mine or Sathians. Lahiris family moved to Rhode Island in 1970, when there were 51,000 Indian immigrants in the United States and far fewer than that in Rhode Island. In an essay Lahiri later wrote about the state, she said that her family didnt fundamentally belong there, recounting that her mother once received nine pieces of racist hate mail while working at the elementary school Lahiri had attended. Responding with forbearance to American ignorance about Indians as Lahiris characters tend to might have been a matter of social survival for the Indian Americans in her life. I was born in 1982, in a small city in Saskatchewan, Canada, but by the time I started high school, my family had moved to the Seattle suburbs. We arrived in 1995, before Seattles tech boom had gotten underway Jeff Bezos had just founded Amazon out of his home garage near the Bellevue Square Mall where my sister and I shopped. But the presence of Microsoft nearby meant that there was already a fast-growing Indian community. One uncle had been the first Indian employee at Microsoft; another would play a major role in building Amazons Kindle; an acquaintance of friends of my parents, Satya Nadella, would become Microsofts C.E.O. Being Indian American was neither the most important fact of my life nor a particular source of tension. My parents switched back and forth between Telugu and English and didnt mind that my sister and I answered in English. Some of my closest friends had Chinese, Taiwanese and Panamanian roots. At their houses, hearing languages other than English wasnt unusual. By the 2000 census the year Lahiri won her Pulitzer the number of Indian immigrants in the United States had increased 20-fold since 1970. That those around me didnt define me solely on the basis of my ethnicity doubtless made it easier for me to define myself on my own terms. Lahiri was describing the world in which shed grown up, not the one in which I had. In my mid-20s, after that conversation with Jenny, I decided to write about Indian Americans again. I began a novel, The Immortal King Rao, whose titular character, a future tech C.E.O., is an immigrant to the United States from the region of India where my family comes from not Lahiris upper-crust northern milieu but the agricultural south, where my mother was raised by a veterinarian father and my father in a family of coconut farmers. I also started writing the stories that appear in my new collection, This Is Salvaged, featuring Indian Americans in multicultural communities. One character is an alcoholic, another an aspiring phone-sex operator; none are model minorities. Before Ukraines military began a counteroffensive in June, officials hoped they could replicate last years successes and quickly retake large swaths of Russian-held territory. Instead, Ukrainian forces initially made almost no progress. In recent weeks, they have made more but still captured only a few small villages. But perhaps we should have expected a result like this. War tends to be a grind. The types of routs that let Ukraine retake thousands of square miles in the northeast last year are rare. Fighting frequently involves chipping away at an enemy, like Ukraines retaking of a small but strategic village in the east yesterday. Such advances try to build toward a big breakthrough, although one may never come. It was true most famously during the trench warfare of World War I but also in World War II, the Korean War and the U.S. Civil War. War is not always the spectacular triumph, said George Barros, an analyst at the Institute for the Study of War. Its largely the really boring stuff that you dont see all the groundwork setting up the conditions for the triumphs. In other words: Ukraine and its allies, including the U.S., may have set their expectations for the counteroffensive too high. Ukraine is fighting one of the worlds strongest militaries. If Ukraine could succeed in forcing Russia to retreat in a significant way, it was always more likely to take years than months. The governments case is not that Google violated the law in becoming a search giant. Instead, the government claims that after Google became dominant, the company broke the law with its tactics to defend its monopoly. Contracts with industry partners to be their default search engine were the weapon exclusive deals that froze out rivals, the government claims. So Google is now protected from competition behind a fortress built with data. Google replies that the governments case is an artifice of misleading theory unsupported by the facts. The government has chosen to ignore inescapable truths, John Schmidtlein, Googles lead lawyer, asserted in his opening statement. Those truths, according to Google, are that the company holds its leading position in search because of its technical innovation. It competes with others for default-placement contracts and wins mainly because Google is the best search engine. Those contracts, Google argues, help reduce prices for smartphones and benefit consumers. The government, Google insists, is overstating the importance of data. In a brief filed this month, the company stated, Google does not deny that user data can improve search quality, but Google will show that there are diminishing returns to scale. The trial resumes this week with the Justice Department continuing to present its case. The first witness scheduled to testify on Monday is Brian Higgins, an executive at Verizon who oversees mobile device and customer marketing. The trial is scheduled to run for 10 weeks. A ruling from Judge Amit P. Mehta will come next year. A herd of 2,000 rhinoceroses urgently in need of a new owner has finally found one: The rhinos and the farm where they live in South Africa have been purchased by a conservation group that plans to release the animals into the wild over the next decade. The southern white rhinos, thought to be the largest single population of their kind, were put up for auction in April with a starting price of $10 million. No bidders came forward. At that point, the future of the animals appeared precarious. But the conservation group African Parks announced this month that it had reached a deal to take over the herd. We felt we had a moral obligation to step in, Peter Fearnhead, the groups co-founder and chief executive, said. The 30-square-mile farm, Platinum Rhino, about 100 miles southwest of Johannesburg, was set up in 2009 by John Hume, a businessman originally from Zimbabwe. Mr. Hume has said that he created the farm because he wanted to help rhinos by building up their numbers. He declined to be interviewed for this article. Many readers have told her that they bought the cookbook to enjoy the pictures, but havent cooked a single recipe. Still, plenty of people buy these cookbooks for the recipes. Janvi Joshi, 26, who lives in Brooklyn, N.Y., and works in finance, has cooked about seven dishes from the The Korean Vegan. She said that with recipes written in captions on social media, the measurements and stuff might be a little bit off. When you are going through recipes in a cookbook, they are a little more thought-out and tested, she said. But Mr. Hollis worries that the more of his fellow TikTok creators get cookbook deals, the less credible their books may become. The field may become too saturated. Everyone and their dog is about to have a cookbook, he said, and who knows what that is going to do? A year later, Dr. Choi performed the fourth rite of passage for her mother in the form of jesa, which involves setting a large table with candles and a rich assortment of food and drink offerings for the deceased. If Dr. Chois mother had a specialty, it was her encyclopedic knowledge of Korean ceremonial foods like yakgwa and how to present them. Thats why the recent commercialization of the cookie, with its ubiquity among young people who respect the tradition enough to reinterpret it, has delighted Dr. Choi. Food evolves constantly, adjusting to new demands and new tastes, she said. Today, Koreans enjoy yakgwa outside of those rites of passage, like as an after-school snack or weekday dessert with vanilla ice cream. The Korean restaurant Cho Dang Gol in Manhattan serves on-the-house packages of delicious mini yakgwa at the end of the meal with your check, like soft mints or sticks of gum. Still, a bite of homemade yakgwa tends to exceed anything store-bought, nine times out of 10. Since yakgwa is fried, the oil can go rancid in mass-produced packaged versions, so making the cookies from scratch is a quest worth pursuing. When fresh, the cookies sticky, amber syrup should drip off slowly, drenching your fingers, like Winnie the Poohs paw, in honey. While the chewy outside gives way, the crunchy interior resists slightly. (The YouTube star and cookbook author Maangchi uses the word juicy to describe biting into fresh yakgwa.) As the migrant situation worsens in New York City, Mayor Eric Adams is in danger of forfeiting his ability to quickly spend hundreds of millions of dollars on the crisis using his emergency powers. The city comptroller, Brad Lander, has warned the city that he may curtail the citys power to enter emergency contracts a power granted by his office to deal with the influx. He said that with the crisis now 18 months old, it was no longer an unexpected situation that merits the broad suspension of due diligence processes to ensure that city funds are being spent wisely and with integrity. Mr. Lander also informed the city, in a letter sent Friday, that he was beginning an audit to determine how the city came to award a no-bid $432 million migrant-services contract to DocGo. He wont hear them. He is spending the whole week where he usually spends weekends, in Essex, Conn. Its quiet and nice, he said. U.N. Plaza considers itself one of the worlds most prestigious addresses, according to the website for the two buildings the kind of place where residents can afford to escape high-level week. Or, if they have nowhere else to go when the General Assembly descends on the city, they trudge along blocked-off blocks until they reach a spot where an Uber or a limousine awaits. Cove also has neighbors who have learned the hard way that overnight deliveries absolutely, positively do not get through during high-level week. As for those trying to sell an apartment at U.N. Plaza, Its not the best time to show it, said Mary Anne Greene, an associate broker with Douglas Elliman who has a $2.8 million listing for a four-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bath unit. But whenever you want to see it, I will be there. What to know about high-level week High-level week will shift into high gear on Tuesday, when President Biden will address the General Assembly. So will President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin of Russia is skipping the General Assembly this year; the Russian official sent in his place will not be heard until Saturday morning, after Azerbaijan and before Indonesia. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Iran is looking forward to the reopening of the Azerbaijani Embassy in Tehran, Spokesman for Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Nasser Kanaani said at a briefing, Trend reports. He recalled the phone conversation between Amir Abdullahian and his Azerbaijani counterpart and the process of reopening the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Tehran. "Over the past 2-3 months, both countries have engaged in a series of delegation exchanges. These exchanges were initiated following an agreement reached during telephone conversations between the foreign ministers of the two countries and further discussions at an in-person meeting in Baku, held without any formal commitments. Building upon this agreement and the mutual political resolve of both nations, a variety of delegations have been swapped. The negotiation process, spanning multiple meetings between the two countries, has displayed positive momentum, particularly in the realms of security, judiciary, and economics," he said. Kanaani noted that Iran is hopeful that by successfully completing the measures undertaken, we will witness the reopening of the Azerbaijani Embassy in Tehran. This process is viewed as favorable and full of promise. Meanwhile, an armed attack took place at the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Iran on January 27, 2023, at about 8:30 (GMT+4). The gunman turned out to be a man in his 50's, who drove up to the administrative building, armed with a Kalashnikov automatic rifle. Earlier reports from the Chief of Tehran police said there were two children in the car with the gunman, the security camera footage released later proved the man was alone. He entered the building after briefly waving hand to the Iranian security guard outside. No attempts were made to detain the gunman, as he freely entered the embassy. The man managed to kill head of the security service and wounding two embassy guards. The shooter was eventually detained. The incident is currently being investigated. Following the deadly assault, Azerbaijan evacuated its officials from the embassy, including those who suffered as a result of the attack and completely suspended the work of the embassy in Tehran. Vassar College, one of the first institutions of higher learning for women in the United States, prides itself on being a pioneer in womens education and deeply committed to equality between the sexes. And yet, Vassar, a liberal arts college in Poughkeepsie, N. Y., where tuition this year is $67,000, has systematically paid its female full professors less than their male counterparts for the past two decades, according to a recent federal lawsuit. The suit, filed last month by five former or current tenured faculty members, has roiled the left-leaning campus with allegations of unequal pay, delayed promotions for female professors and a discriminatory performance-evaluation system. Hundreds of students rallied outside a faculty meeting last week to demand that female professors be paid the same as men. On a campus where the promise of gender equality is a draw for students seeking a college culture steeped in diversity and equity, many students interviewed said the issues raised by the suit had left them feeling betrayed. This article is part of Overlooked, a series of obituaries about remarkable people whose deaths, beginning in 1851, went unreported in The Times. Margaret Chung knew from age 10 that she wanted to become a medical missionary to China. She was inspired by stories her mother had told of life in a mission home, where her mother stayed as a child after emigrating from China to California. It is believed that she named Margaret after the homes superintendent. Religion was an important part of young Margarets life in California. She was raised in a Presbyterian household in Santa Barbara, where her father insisted that the family pray before every meal and sang hymns with the children before bed. So it was a blow that after graduating from medical school, at the University of Southern California, in 1916, her application to be a medical missionary was rejected three times by administrative boards. Though she had been born on United States soil, she was regarded as Chinese, and no funding for Chinese missionaries existed. What happens next to Mr. Smith will be up to the courts. Death by nitrogen hypoxia by breathing high concentrations of nitrogen, starving a person of oxygen until death occurs from time to time accidentally. Federal workplace regulations address the risks of nitrogen toxicity on the job. Pilots undergo training involving the loss of oxygen at high altitudes to familiarize themselves with anticipatory sensations. But there are no known uses of nitrogen hypoxia as a method of execution that I am aware of, based on my research, so we have no firsthand experience to assess the likelihood of agony and suffering under the typically dire conditions of execution chambers. Executions are conducted not in pristine hospital settings but in a pressure cooker of last-minute, exhausted, careless judgments in a prison chamber. The typical executioner is not a medical doctor but someone who is moonlighting. There are colossal psychological and emotional pressures on prison staff members during executions, which are most often conducted in the middle of the night and result in poor conditions for everyone involved, including the lawyers. Proponents of the nitrogen hypoxia method, also approved by Mississippi and Oklahoma but not yet used in those states, argue that nitrogen gas will quickly render the subject unconscious, with death ensuing within minutes. But there are a lot of things that could go wrong. Should the mask not fit properly and oxygen seep in, the person may be left gasping in agony for air and suffer suffocation. This could result in severe brain damage rather than death. If the outflow is not properly regulated, the person will be asphyxiated by carbon dioxide. There may also be a danger of nitrogen toxicity to the people in the prison workplace or present for the executions. We do not even reserve this fate for dogs or cats. Nitrogen gas asphyxiation was previously used to euthanize pets. However, the American Veterinary Medical Association no longer recommends nitrogen asphyxiation for nonavian animals, citing data that indicates those animals may experience panic, pain and severe physical distress before dying. The group states in its 2020 guidelines that nitrogen gas is unacceptable for animals other than chickens and turkeys. What past executions amply demonstrate is that the State of Alabama is not competent at performing the task. It is one thing to botch an execution, which is commonly understood to mean that an execution caused unnecessary agony or showed gross incompetence by the execution team. Alabama has botched four of the nations nine known botched executions since 2018. It is another thing for a state to preside over both a botched and failed execution, in which the condemned person actually survives. Three of the six known failed executions since 1946, according to my research, have taken place in Alabama, and all of those have occurred since 2018. The Google antitrust trial, which began last week, is ostensibly focused on the past on a series of deals that Google made with other companies over the past two decades. The prosecution in the case, U.S. et al. v. Google, contends that Google illegally spent billions of dollars paying off Samsung and Apple to prevent anyone else from gaining a foothold in the market for online search. But the true focus of the trial, like that of the Federal Trade Commissions coming trial of Facebooks parent company, Meta, on monopolization charges, is on the future. For the verdict will effectively establish the rules governing tech competition for the next decade, including the battle over commercialized artificial intelligence, as well as newer technologies we cannot yet envision. The history of antitrust prosecutions shows this again and again: Loosening the grip of a controlling monopolist may not always solve the problem at hand (here, an online search monopoly). But it can open up closed markets, shake up the industry and spark innovation in unexpected areas. If Judge Amit P. Mehta of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, who is presiding over the trial without a jury, decides this case correctly, hell be helping the entire tech world and the American economy more broadly. Consider the antitrust lawsuit that led to the breakup of AT&Ts telephone monopoly in 1984. At the time, prosecutors were focused on lowering the pricing of long-distance telephone calls and giving consumers greater choice. But more important and less anticipated, the breakup helped to jump-start the internet revolution of the 1990s, in part by making it easier for companies to conduct business over phone lines and for customers to connect modems to them. To the Editor: All That Empty Office Space Belongs to Someone (Sunday Business, Sept. 3) describes what in my view is a transitional period. Any company whose business model supports remote work will eventually be fully remote. This saves on office space as well as on commuting time and costs, and allows for recruiting talent from all over the world. As a thought experiment, if you compare two identical companies, one remote and the other fully or partly in person, the latter cannot compete. Similarly, creating work spaces for employees who choose to live in super-expensive, crowded cities such as Tokyo and cannot work at home (as described in the article) leads to a cost disadvantage relative to fully remote work. The hybrid model highlighted in the article is particularly problematic. Either a company rents offices that are only partly used, or it cuts office space. With rotating office space, people come in on different days, they do not meet and interact, and they may be less productive in shifting work spaces. Companies are better off working remotely but offering retreats and renting occasional spaces for in-person meetings. Unsurprisingly, then, it wasnt long before the moral clarity offered by photographs became considerably less clear as politicians discovered the manipulative power of the medium when its goal is manipulation. In 1867, long before A.I. turned every digital experience into a cause for uncertainty, leaders in New Orleans struck on the idea of commissioning a collection of photographs designed to attract investment in the city. The beauty of the resulting images by Theodore Lilienthal obscures the dark reality of postwar life for Black Southerners. A photo taken on St. Charles Street and aimed toward the St. Charles Exchange Hotel, for example, makes no reference to the history of the site as a place where enslaved people had been auctioned in the very recent past. As Brian Piper, the photography curator at the New Orleans Museum of Art, notes in an essay for the Aperture monograph, What was meant to appear splendid on the surface was in fact rotten at its core. The curators of A Long Arc, like many documentary and fine-art photographers themselves, are far more interested in overt records of injustice. When something terrible has befallen other human beings, and when it continually befalls them for no reason but their own powerlessness, a perfectly captured photograph can sometimes wake the rest of America from its slumber and inspire at least a small measure of social change. Therefore, this exhibition does not stint on the magnificent documentary photographs that emerged from the South during the Great Depression, emerged again during the civil-rights movement, and emerged yet again during our own age as environmental devastation has ravaged not just the earth but also marginalized human communities. And yet the most affecting photographs in A Long Arc are not or at least are not merely visual records of exploitation. The most powerful images capture the beauty and the tenderness and the self-possession of people who are living out their lives mostly invisible to the rest of the world. Or of the scarred but beautiful landscapes they call home. Or of the ramifications of an unresolved history still unspooling in this history-haunted part of the country. This is the Republican Party today. In the House, Speaker Kevin McCarthy, trying to corral a fractious majority, has ordered an impeachment inquiry into President Biden over his sons financial entanglements, even as elements in his caucus push to shut down the government unless there are drastic cuts in spending. In the Senate, Mitt Romney announced his plan to retire, having declared to his biographer that a very large portion of my party really doesnt believe in the Constitution. In Wisconsin and North Carolina, G.O.P. legislators push the envelope of hardball tactics to remove or disempower Democrats in other branches of government. And in the presidential campaign, Republican contenders struggle to make the case for a non-Trump candidacy without antagonizing Donald Trumps many supporters, and often avoid major spheres of public policy. Together these depict a party that is preoccupied with antics that crash into the guardrails of American political life and conspicuously lacks a coherent, forward-looking vision for governing. A modern political party has devolved into a racket. The country needs a right-of-center party. But today, as the G.O.P. has lost a collective commitment to solving the nations problems and become purposeless, the line separating party politics from political conspiracy has frayed. Mr. Trump, in this way, is the product more than the author of that collective party failure. The timing of the campaign targeting me and my alleged bias suggested the attacks were part of a well-planned strategy. Academic studies have repeatedly pushed back on claims that Silicon Valley platforms are biased against conservatives. But the success of a strategy aimed at forcing social media companies to reconsider their choices may not require demonstrating actual wrongdoing. As the former Republican Party chair Rich Bond once described, maybe you just need to work the refs: repeatedly pressure companies into thinking twice before taking actions that could provoke a negative reaction. What happened to me was part of a calculated effort to make Twitter reluctant to moderate Mr. Trump in the future and to dissuade other companies from taking similar steps. It worked. As violence unfolded at the Capitol on Jan. 6, Jack Dorsey, who was then the chief executive of Twitter, overruled Trust and Safetys recommendation that Mr. Trumps account should be banned because of several tweets, including one that attacked Vice President Mike Pence. He was given a 12-hour timeout instead (before being banned on Jan. 8). Within the boundaries of the rules, staff members were encouraged to find solutions to help the company avoid the type of blowback that results in angry press cycles, hearings and employee harassment. The practical result was that Twitter gave offenders greater latitude: Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene was permitted to violate Twitters rules at least five times before one of her accounts was banned in 2022. Other prominent right-leaning figures, such as the culture war account Libs of TikTok, enjoyed similar deference. Similar tactics are being deployed around the world to influence platforms trust and safety efforts. In India, the police visited two of our offices in 2021 when we fact-checked posts from a politician from the ruling party, and the police showed up at an employees home after the government asked us to block accounts involved in a series of protests. The harassment again paid off: Twitter executives decided any potentially sensitive actions in India would require top-level approval, a unique level of escalation of otherwise routine decisions. And when we wanted to disclose a propaganda campaign operated by a branch of the Indian military, our legal team warned us that our India-based employees could be charged with sedition and face the death penalty if convicted. So Twitter only disclosed the campaign over a year later, without fingering the Indian government as the perpetrator. In 2021, ahead of Russian legislative elections, officials of a state security service went to the home of a top Google executive in Moscow to demand the removal of an app that was used to protest Vladimir Putin. Officers threatened her with imprisonment if the company failed to comply within 24 hours. Both Apple and Google removed the app from their respective stores, restoring it after elections had concluded. Another theory describes specialized sections of the brain that are used for particular tasks the part of your brain that can balance your top-heavy body on a pogo stick is different from the part of your brain that can take in an expansive landscape. Were able to put all this information together (you can bounce on a pogo stick while appreciating a nice view), but only to a certain extent (doing so is difficult). So neuroscientists have postulated the existence of a global workspace that allows for control and coordination over what we pay attention to, what we remember, even what we perceive. Our consciousness may arise from this integrated, shifting workspace. But it could also arise from the ability to be aware of your own awareness, to create virtual models of the world, to predict future experiences and to locate your body in space. The report argues that any one of these features could, potentially, be an essential part of what it means to be conscious. And, if were able to discern these traits in a machine, then we might be able to consider the machine conscious. One of the difficulties of this approach is that the most advanced A.I. systems are deep neural networks that learn how to do things on their own, in ways that arent always interpretable by humans. We can glean some kinds of information from their internal structure, but only in limited ways, at least for the moment. This is the black box problem of A.I. So even if we had a full and exact rubric of consciousness, it would be difficult to apply it to the machines we use every day. And the authors of the recent report are quick to note that theirs is not a definitive list of what makes one conscious. They rely on an account of computational functionalism, according to which consciousness is reduced to pieces of information passed back and forth within a system, like in a pinball machine. In principle, according to this view, a pinball machine could be conscious, if it were made much more complex. (That might mean its not a pinball machine anymore; lets cross that bridge if we come to it.) But others have proposed theories that take our biological or physical features, social or cultural contexts, as essential pieces of consciousness. Its hard to see how these things could be coded into a machine. And even to researchers who are largely on board with computational functionalism, no existing theory seems sufficient for consciousness. From Van Goghs sunflowers to Edvard Munchs The Scream, theres no shortage of seminal artwork that was made with a striking hue known as cadmium yellow. But that riot of color that artists squeezed from their paint tubes isnt necessarily what museum goers see today: cadmium yellows brilliance often diminishes over time, as the paint fades and turns chalky. And its not only centuries-old artworks that are affected. A team of art conservators and scientists recently analyzed bits of degraded cadmium yellow paint taken from pieces painted by the Spanish artist Joan Miro in the 1970s. One particular brand of paint was likely most responsible for the degradation observed in the Miro pieces, the team concluded in a study published in July in the journal Heritage Science. Cadmium yellow paint is an amalgam primarily of cadmium and sulfur. It was first commercialized in the 1840s, and soon gained renown among artists. Miro described the color as splendid. Tubes of cadmium yellow paint, including Cadmium Yellow Lemon No.1 produced by the Parisian manufacturer Lucien Lefebvre-Foinet, litter Miros two studios in Mallorca, Spain. In 2020, Mar Gomez Lobon, an art conservator based in Mallorca, began investigating the paints that Miro used after he settled on the island in the 1950s. An art conservator at the Pilar and Joan Miro Foundation in Mallorca had tipped her off that more than 25 pieces in the foundations collection painted in the 1970s showed evidence of degraded yellow paint. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Not providing information about missing persons is disrespectful and unacceptable not only for the families of the missing, but also for the whole of humanity, former Deputy Prime Minister of Romania, Ana Birchall said at the international conference on Increasing national and global efforts to clarify the fate of missing persons, Trend reports. I have repeatedly visited Azerbaijan (Baku, Shusha). The last time I was in the city of Shusha a few months ago, I witnessed the rapid development, reconstruction and construction work carried out there. Since the first Karabakh war, about 4,000 citizens have been missing in Azerbaijan, and this is very sad. The lack of information about missing persons is disrespectful and unacceptable not only for the families of these persons, but also for the whole of humanity. This is a gross violation of international law. I say this as a lawyer. Not providing people with information about missing persons is a gross violation of the Geneva Conventions, Birchall said. She noted that Azerbaijan is still suffering from the fact that Armenia has not yet provided information about the missing persons. "Armenia should provide information about the missing persons, about their burial places. The UN and the international community should strive to provide information about missing Azerbaijani citizens. This is not a political issue. This is a simple human right," the former deputy prime minister of Romania said. The State Commission on Prisoners of War, Hostages and Missing Persons is organizing an international conference on "Increasing national and global efforts to clarify the fate of missing persons" in Baku on September 18 with the participation of former heads of state and government of foreign countries, representatives of international organizations, including humanitarian organizations, as well as international political experts. At a speed-dating event in August, $25 bought attendees 20 dates with strangers, each roughly five minutes long. When the first blind dates began, it wasnt long before some people mostly men tried to go out of order so they could talk to the person they were most attracted to. Theres a seat right here, one of the events organizers said, steering a wayward attendee back into the designated flow. Speed dating is no easy feat, requiring the conversational stamina of a filibuster champion, the brevity of an auctioneer and a positive mood to fight the boredom of repetition. Drinks were encouraged. As a child growing up in the center of Paris, Matthieu Blazy, the 39-year-old designer at the helm of Bottega Veneta, had a robust imagination. Though his father, Jacques, an art expert, and his mother, Christine Philips, a historian and researcher, would often take him and his twin sister, Julie, and their brother, Quentin, on trips abroad to China, Mali and Burkina Faso Blazy discovered more adventures in stories and cartoons. I loved comics, he said this past June at a cafe near his apartment in Milan. Tom Sawyer was my childhood hero. By his own account, he was a similarly spirited boy, which partly explains how he ended up at a Catholic boarding school in France and later at a military academy in England. The tension between freedom and constraint would also come to define his career, which began in 2007 in Antwerp, Belgium, when he went to work for Raf Simons. The pair had met a year before at the International Talent Support prize in Trieste, Italy, where Simons, a judge of the competition, was introduced to Blazy, one of the finalists. In 2012, Blazy was hired as a head designer albeit an anonymous one at Maison Margiela Artisanal, where, even though the brand famously prefers to present as a collective, he was encouraged to indulge his own inventive whims. It felt very liberating, he said. Up to the moment when it wasnt anymore. With so much freedom, you stop challenging yourself. A stint at Celine followed in 2014, and with it another period of restraint. I told Phoebe [Philo, then the houses creative director] that I wanted to make clothes that are worn, he said. The idea of making a great trouser, for me, was enough. But two years later, he was back with Simons, who brought Blazy to New York for his short-lived tenure at Calvin Klein. We all got let go, Blazy recalled. It felt like a movie: I was on the street with my cardboard box. Searching for a salve after the creative claustrophobia of working for a large corporation, he headed to Los Angeles to help his friend the artist Sterling Ruby, who was working on a fashion collection. After the launch, Blazy was invited to join Bottega Venetas design team in Milan. The experience of entering Eddie Roschis country home in the Alentejo region of southern Portugal is purposefully disorienting. The first thing you see, from the end of a long dirt drive, is a monumental boomerang-shaped concrete facade, 150 feet long and 11 feet high. When imagining a house on this beautiful land, says Roschi, the co-founder of the fragrance company Le Labo, my first idea was to create a space where youd immediately be confronted with an obstruction. A narrow opening at the center of the building reveals a small courtyard anchored by an oak tree, and two doors, each a featureless plank made from eco-friendly Kebony wood (a sustainably harvested pine modified for hardiness) that wraps around the single-story house. Both doors open onto long, dark hallways; one runs through the east wing, the other through the west wing. Take a few steps down either hallway, turn south and youre suddenly standing in a cavernous 1,800-square-foot space: part living room, part dining room and kitchen, all sheathed in Kebony. In place of a back wall, there are 115 feet of sliding glass doors, angled to appear like a massive bay window. On a sunny day, it can take a few seconds for your eyes to adjust to both the light and the expansive view of wildflower fields, grasses, holm oak trees and olive groves. How do you balance the plays humor and its politics? ODOM Its a romp. Its a real hoot. Were having a ball. As joyful and as light-filled as this experience is, he realized it was too painful to ask an audience to sit through it. Its already an act of great generosity and grace that he decided to put it together in this way. He wanted us to be able to witness these people that he grew up with, this country that he grew up in, this farm that he knew so well, but he wanted you to be able to stand it and to tolerate it. LEON Were telling it in a joyous way and dealing with some real stuff. YOUNG There are just so many gems about the violence of our just existing. There is a line I said the other day that reminds me of gentrification. Lutiebelle says, The whole thing was a trick to get you out of the house. Im a Harlemite, and Ive been feeling the violence of gentrification for years. I know thats not what the play is about, but these things are dropped in the story, and because it is so dramaturgically sound, they can live on their own. LEON Thats so beautiful because that, to me, is what artists are supposed to do. Were supposed to revisit the work from the previous generation and say, How does that relate to me now? I treat revivals like theyre new plays. Everything about being American, definitely about being Black in America, you can find in his play. Is that why you changed the structure from three to two acts, without an intermission? LEON I read plays five times to inform me of what I will do with them. After the fifth reading, I came away with the idea that it is about getting to that last page and scene. And getting to that last scene meant its about the rhythm of whats happening onstage and people in the audience not thinking about time. I dont want the outside world to come in. I just want them to get lost in this world. Kara and Leslie, what is it like to invoke the spirit of Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis onstage? YOUNG Im a huge fan of Ruby, oddly also as a Harlemite. Ruby and Ossie are great examples of what it means to be organizers and activists and to be a force of change. But what it means to step into a role that Ruby Dee originated, I cant quite put that into language. But this is also a role about a young woman and her journey, about finding a sense of self and her importance in the world for the first time and standing in that. It feels like a very universal story for a Black girl. Why It Matters Mr. McClains death in August 2019 drew new scrutiny after the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis nine months later. The May 2020 killing of Mr. Floyd, videotaped by a bystander, ignited a national movement around police brutality and racial injustice. Mr. McClains death was quickly linked with the deaths of Mr. Floyd and Breonna Taylor, a Black medical worker who was shot and killed by the Louisville police in a botched no-knock raid. The three names and faces were among the most identifiable of the protests in summer 2020 as victims of police violence. Collectively, protesters demanded more accountability, transparency and changes to address police brutality and racial profiling. In addition, the death of Mr. McClain set in motion multiple investigations into the Aurora Police Department resulting in a state consent decree as well as local reform efforts. Background Mr. McClain has been described by friends and family as a gentle massage therapist and self-taught violinist. At the time the police stopped Mr. McClain, he was wearing a dark mask (his mother said he had anemia which could make him cold) and waving his arms. He was not suspected of any crime and he was not armed. The exchange, which prosecutors will almost certainly use against Mr. Meadows at trial, underscored the high-stakes gamble that he took by testifying. So far, the gamble has not paid off: In early September, U.S. District Judge Steve C. Jones declined to move his case to federal court. Mr. Meadows has appealed. But his testimony may have given ammunition to Georgia prosecutors as they prepare to try him, Mr. Trump and the 17 other defendants. Legal experts say that Mr. Meadows may have damaged his credibility while weakening his claim to immunity from state prosecution as a federal official, given his struggles to articulate how the actions ascribed to him in the indictment were part of his official duties rather than in service of the Trump campaign. He did do a number of things which will make the prosecutors job easier, said Caren Morrison, a former federal prosecutor and associate law professor at Georgia State University, of Mr. Meadowss testimony. Hes created some additional trouble for himself, I think, as well as for Trump. With an affable demeanor, Mr. Meadows has been described as a less than assertive chief of staff by former White House aides, and as someone with a habit of telling people what they wanted to hear. During the hearing in Atlanta, Mr. Meadows portrayed himself as a supremely busy man whose White House job often put him at the nexus of policy and politics. While acknowledging that he interacted with the Trump campaign for various reasons, such as working out scheduling issues, he emphasized that he operated independently of it. In the fall of 1938, the Golden Gate Bridge had been open for a year, the United States was still recovering from the Great Depression and Franklin D. Roosevelt was in his second term as president. World War II had yet to begin. And in the cargo hold of a steamship, a young lungfish arrived from Australia to a new home at an aquarium in San Francisco. Shes still alive today. In a delightful piece of California trivia, what is believed to be the worlds oldest fish in human care can be found in Golden Gate Park, at the Steinhart Aquarium of the California Academy of Sciences. I recently met Methuselah, as the fish is known, and can attest that shes a particularly charming celebrity. The police in Illinois were searching for the former N.F.L. player Sergio Brown after his mother was found dead from multiple injuries related to an assault near a creek behind her home on Saturday, the authorities said. The Brown family alerted the police after being unable to reach either of them, the Maywood Police Department said in a news release. Maywood police officers initiated a missing person report and began making attempts to locate both individuals, the news release said. Maywood, a village of about 23,000 residents, is about 12 miles west of downtown Chicago. The body of Myrtle Brown, 73, was discovered near a creek behind her home on Saturday, the police said. Nine California lawmakers asked the states attorney general in a letter on Monday to seek a court opinion on whether former President Donald J. Trump should be excluded from Republican primary ballots under the 14th Amendment. The letter is part of an escalating effort across multiple states to establish whether Mr. Trumps attempts to overturn the 2020 election including his actions before and during his supporters storming of the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021 disqualify him from the presidency under the amendment. It says that anyone who engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the Constitution after taking an oath to defend it is ineligible to hold office. The purpose of this letter is to request in haste the office of the attorney general seek the court opinion as to whether or not Donald J. Trump should be removed from the ballot of the presidential primary election scheduled in California on March 5, 2024, the letter says. It describes Mr. Trumps actions and tells Attorney General Rob Bonta, You are uniquely positioned to proactively seek the courts opinion to confirm Mr. Trumps inability to hold office given these facts. Eight members of the California Assembly Mike Fong, Mike Gipson, Corey Jackson, Alex Lee, Evan Low, Kevin McCarty, Stephanie Nguyen and Philip Ting and one member of the California Senate, Josh Becker, signed the letter. All nine are Democrats. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. The agreement on the opening of the Aghdam-Khankendi road is another victory for Azerbaijan, Azerbaijan's Milli Majlis (Parliament) deputy Afet Hasanova told Trend. "Armenia and its patrons tried hard to prevent the opening of this road, but these attempts, as usual, failed," she said. She noted that Azerbaijan, as always, took a principled and resolute position in this issue, responded to all pressures and provocations with dignity, did not retreat from its right position, and finally achieved its goal. "The opening of the Aghdam-Khankendi road means the end of Armenian separatists in Karabakh. Now the separatists themselves are already leaving our territories, realizing that their end has already come. The opening of the Aghdam-Khankendi road is an important step towards the establishment of peace in the region. Armenia and its patrons provided serious support to the separatists to aggravate the situation, but now they have lost these opportunities," the deputy added. A. Hasanova emphasized that all processes in the region are carried out in accordance with the agenda set by Azerbaijan. "Azerbaijan continues its historical victory in the second Karabakh war in the diplomatic direction as well. No matter how Armenia and its patrons try to hinder and put pressure on us, Azerbaijan, under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, opposes it and does not retreat a step from its right position. Armenia, resorting to various provocations, puts itself in an even more difficult and shameful position," Hasanova said. David McCormick, a former hedge fund executive who lost the Republican primary for Pennsylvanias open Senate seat last year, is set to announce on Thursday that he is running again for Senate this time against Senator Bob Casey, a Democrat. Mr. McCormick will begin his campaign with a speech in Pittsburgh, according to two people familiar with the conversations. An Army veteran and former Treasury Department official, Mr. McCormick will enter one of the countrys most closely watched Senate races. Long a battleground state, Pennsylvania has tilted toward Democrats in recent years, and Republicans faced several losses in 2022. Mr. Casey, 63, who was first elected to the Senate in 2006, has the advantage of incumbency and a hefty fund-raising haul. The Cook Political Report, a nonpartisan newsletter, describes the race for his seat as leaning Democratic. Kenneth Griffin, a billionaire hedge-fund executive and major Republican donor who has made it clear that he wants the party to move on from former President Donald J. Trump, still has yet to settle on an alternative in the primary even as time dwindles for Mr. Trumps opponents to cut into his enormous lead before voting begins in January. Mr. Griffins continued absence from the primary fight, which he confirmed in an interview with CNBC that was broadcast on Monday night, points to a deep dissatisfaction among some anti-Trump Republican megadonors with their choices in the race. It is also a particular snub to Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida. When Mr. DeSantis was up for re-election as governor last year, Mr. Griffin supported him to the tune of $5 million, but he has expressed dissatisfaction with his presidential campaign. I dont know his strategy, he told CNBC, in a major departure from his assertion last year that the country would be well served if Mr. DeSantis were president. Its not clear to me what voter base he is intending to appeal to. It resembled a political rally more than a news conference. In November 2021, exactly one year after Donald J. Trump lost the presidential election to Joseph R. Biden Jr., Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida spoke to a raucous crowd in a hotel conference room just a few miles from Mr. Trumps home base of Mar-a-Lago. Their suspicions about vast election malfeasance would be heard, Mr. DeSantis promised. He was setting up an election police unit and he invited the crowd to send in tips about illegal ballot harvesting, nodding to an unfounded theory about Democrats collecting ballots in bulk. The crowd whooped and waved furiously. He gets it! posted a commenter watching on Rumble. But in his seven-minute, tough-on-election-crimes sermon, Mr. DeSantis, a Republican, never explicitly endorsed that theory or the many others spread by the defeated president and embraced by much of their party. In this way, for nearly three years, Mr. DeSantis played both sides of Republicans rift over the 2020 election. As his state became a buzzing hub of the election denial movement, he repeatedly took actions that placated those who believed Mr. Trump had won. Hunter Biden sued the Internal Revenue Service on Monday, saying that investigators for the agency violated his privacy rights by disclosing details to Congress and the public about his taxes and the investigation into his conduct. Mr. Biden, the presidents son, filed the suit days after the Justice Department indicted him on separate charges relating to his purchase of a handgun in 2018. The decision to go ahead with the suit shows that he and his legal team are continuing to take an aggressive stance in fending off inquiries from congressional Republicans even as he faces the possibility of further prosecution on tax charges by the Justice Department amid his fathers re-election campaign. The suit, filed in Federal District Court in Washington, asserts that I.R.S. investigators violated the agencys rules on taxpayer privacy and targeted and sought to embarrass Mr. Biden via public statements to the media in which they and their representatives disclosed confidential information about a private citizens tax matters. It points to the public testimony and statements by two I.R.S. investigators, Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler, who have been providing information to House committees seeking evidence of wrongdoing by President Biden and his family. Mr. Shapley and Mr. Ziegler have told House Republicans that they believe the Justice Department inquiry into Hunter Bidens taxes was influenced by politics. Five Americans who had been imprisoned in Iran were allowed to leave the country on Monday, President Biden said, after two years of high-stakes negotiations in which the United States agreed to unfreeze $6 billion in Iranian oil revenue and dismiss federal charges against five Iranians accused of violating U.S. sanctions. The announcement that the Americans took off in a plane from Tehran just before 9 a.m. Eastern came as Mr. Biden and Ebrahim Raisi, Irans president, were to attend the annual United Nations General Assembly meeting of world leaders in New York on Tuesday. The five Americans some of whom had been held for years in Evin Prison, one of the most notorious detention centers in Iran flew to Doha, the capital of Qatar, for a Cold War-style exchange with two of the five Iranians. Three others declined to return to Iran, according to U.S. officials. The Americans were given a brief medical checkup in Doha before they boarded a U.S. government plane, and they landed at a military base in Virginia at 5:30 a.m. on Tuesday morning, according to a senior administration official. Speaker Kevin McCarthys bid to gain the upper hand in a battle over federal spending hit stiff opposition from within his own ranks on Monday, leaving him with dwindling options and little time to find his way out of a funding impasse that could lead to a government shutdown in less than two weeks. Roughly a dozen Republicans made it clear that they were staunchly opposed to the proposal unveiled on Sunday, which combines a stopgap spending measure with steep funding cuts and new border controls, indicating they could not be induced to change their votes through leadership pressure. The measure had little chance of passing the Democratic-controlled Senate, but Mr. McCarthy, who has made it clear he is desperate to avoid a politically damaging shutdown, has promoted it as a way to pressure the other chamber to come his way on spending. Yet the internal resistance made it clear he is well short of the votes to pass it. The Republican House is failing the American people again and pursuing a path of gamesmanship and circus, Representative Victoria Spartz, Republican of Indiana, said in a statement. Neither Republicans nor Democrats have the backbone to challenge the corrupt swamp that is bankrupting our children and grandchildren. It is a shame that our weak speaker cannot even commit to having a commission to discuss our looming fiscal catastrophe. This town is addicted to spending other peoples money, Representative Eli Crane, Republican of Arizona, said on X, formerly Twitter. Enough is enough. A little more than a month ago, a law professor who helped found the Federalist Society, the conservative legal group, enthusiastically endorsed a new law review article arguing that Donald J. Trump was ineligible to be president. The article was a tour de force, the professor, Steven G. Calabresi, told me. It demonstrated, he said, that Mr. Trump was subject to a provision of the Constitution that bars some officials who have engaged in insurrection from holding government office. Trump is ineligible to be on the ballot, and each of the 50 state secretaries of state has an obligation to print ballots without his name on them, said Professor Calabresi, who teaches at Northwestern University. He appeared to be offering considered views, and he elaborated on them in a blog post titled Trump Is Disqualified From Being on Any Election Ballots. Ken Paxton, the embattled attorney general of Texas, survived an impeachment vote in the State Senate over the weekend, but the case is far from behind him: The U.S. Justice Department still has an open investigation over many of the same allegations of corruption and abuse of office. And in October, Mr. Paxtons lawyers will be in court with state prosecutors to set a trial date for his pending indictment on two counts of securities fraud, an eight-year-old case that the senators did not take up directly in their acquittal vote on Saturday. His lawyer, Dan Cogdell, predicted that the securities case would be quickly dealt with. They ought to dismiss it, and if they dont dismiss it, well try and beat them there just like we beat them here, he said on Saturday of the state charges. He was less willing to make a prediction about the investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Justice Departments public integrity section. I dont speak to the F.B.I. I try not to, he said. Mr. Paxton has faced a cloud of legal troubles since he was sworn in as attorney general in 2015, replacing Greg Abbott, who is now governor. He has been twice re-elected, in part by aligning himself with the right-leaning politics championed by former President Donald J. Trump. Voters delivered comfortable victories to Mr. Paxton even after his indictment and after several of his top aides came forward with claims that he had abused his office by helping a wealthy donor, the subject of the recent attempt to oust him from office. The reworked formula assigned greater emphasis to graduation rates for students who received need-based Pell grants and retention. It also introduced metrics tied to first-generation college students and to whether recent graduates were earning more than people who had completed only high school. The most seismic changes involved schools that were not at the extreme ends of the previous rankings, since they were not extraordinarily weak or strong across a sweeping array of criteria. Occupying the rankings middle rungs meant that shifts in methodology, like the removal of alumni giving as a criterion, could easily fuel dramatic rises and falls. It was unclear, however, how much the overhaul would reduce criticism of U.S. News. Schools have said that the rankings have an outsize influence on students and parents, who use them as a proxy for prestige. And critics say they can skew the priorities of colleges and how they admit students. L. Song Richardson, the president of Colorado College, said the refreshed methodology was slightly better. The liberal arts school said in February that it would stop submitting information to U.S. News. It doesnt ease my concerns, which is why we havent rejoined, said Ms. Richardson, whose institution fell two spots, to No. 29, among liberal arts colleges. But certainly Im thrilled that theyre starting to listen to what higher ed leaders have been saying to them. But doctors say some people seek out these drugs to lose as much weight as possible and are dismayed and disillusioned when they stop. Some go off the drugs after they hit their plateau. When they do, they tend to regain the weight they lost. This is not the magic drug that folks like to tout that it is, Ms. Meinecke, 52, said. Why do people hit weight-loss plateaus? The human body is built to fight back against weight loss. Smaller bodies usually require less energy, and so metabolisms react by slowing down as pounds come off. These changes reduce how many calories someone burns each day, said Dr. Scott Hagan, an assistant professor of medicine at the University of Washington who has studied obesity; losing weight turns down the thermostat. This is one reason many people regain some weight even after bariatric surgery or during intense calorie restriction. Medications like Ozempic mimic a naturally occurring hormone and slow the emptying of the stomach, so that we feel fuller, faster and for longer. They also target the areas of the brain that regulate appetite, curbing cravings. But there are still open questions about exactly how they work, and that extends to why some people hit a set point at one weight or another. Another wrinkle is that not everyone responds to these kinds of medications in the same way. In clinical trials of semaglutide, the compound in Ozempic and Wegovy, people with diabetes have tended to lose less weight, less quickly, than people who did not have the condition, Dr. Hagan said. A small proportion of those who take these drugs wont lose weight at all, he added. When medication meets unrealistic expectations Dr. Andrew Kraftson, a clinical associate professor in the division of metabolism, endocrinology and diabetes at Michigan Medicine, said that most people taking these medications will hit a plateau around the 18-month mark after starting treatment. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Armenia hasn't responded to the initiative shown several times by Azerbaijan to determine the location of missing persons, Deputy Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan Fariz Rzayev said, Trend reports. He made the remark at an international conference on "Strengthening national and global efforts to determine the fate of missing persons". According to Rzayev, Azerbaijan is trying to fundamentally resolve the issue of missing persons. Refusal to share information about the missing persons is disrespectful and unacceptable not only to the families of the missing but to all humanity, he emphasized. The official noted that Azerbaijan, as a country that suffered from this problem for more than 30 years, contributes to cases related to missing persons. "The illegal taking of people hostage is contrary to human rights. Their families and relatives have the right to receive information about their fate. But, unfortunately, the Armenian side refuses to cooperate in this matter. International organizations must fulfill their obligations regarding missing persons," added Rzayev. Since the first Karabakh war in the 1990s, up to 3,900 people have been missing in Azerbaijan, and there are reports that 872 people were taken hostage by Armenian armed forces. The "Strengthening national and global efforts to determine the fate of missing persons" conference being held in Baku includes former heads of state and governments of foreign countries, representatives of international organizations, including structures operating in the humanitarian sphere, as well as international political experts. That tally included 40 aircraft that crossed the median line in the Taiwan Strait, which once acted as an informal boundary between the two sides. Dozens of other Chinese planes flew off the southern end of Taiwan and turned part of the way along the islands eastern coast, facing the West Pacific. What We Know China has ramped up military flights around Taiwan every year since 2019. In particular, Beijing has done so during moments of tension around Taiwans high-level exchanges with the United States, the islands most important political and security partner. One of the last major surges came after Nancy Pelosi, at that time Speaker of the House of Representatives, visited Taiwan last year in a show of support for the island. In 2020, Taiwan began releasing daily counts of the growing number of Chinese military aircraft entering its air defense identification zone, also called its ADIZ, which is a buffer area much broader than Taiwans territorial airspace. The number of Peoples Liberation Army flights recorded by Taiwan grew from 972 in 2021 the first full year when Taiwan began regularly recording the numbers to 1,737 last year, and 1,268 so far this year, including the spike on Monday, said Ben Lewis, a military analyst who maintains a data set on the flights, using the data from Taiwans defense ministry. The Context Chinese leaders have maintained for decades that they want to claim Taiwan back peacefully but will not exclude using force if they deem it necessary. The increased Chinese military activity around Taiwan does not mean that war is imminent. China is also testing and eroding the islands vigilance, seeking to wear away its military equipment and personnel, and remind Taiwanese politicians and voters of Chinas military might. Prosecutors on Monday asked a Seoul court to issue an arrest warrant for South Koreas leading opposition figure, Lee Jae-myung, on corruption charges, 18 days after Mr. Lee began a hunger strike to protest President Yoon Suk Yeols foreign and domestic policies. Mr. Lee, the leader of the Democratic Party, was taken to a hospital hours before prosecutors applied for the warrant, on charges including bribery and breach of trust. Party officials said Mr. Lee had been found nearly unconscious in his office, his blood sugar levels having fallen sharply. Mr. Lee, 58, lost the 2022 presidential election to Mr. Yoon, a former prosecutor, by a razor-thin margin and has been the subject of a series of criminal investigations since then. He has vehemently denied every charge brought against him, calling Mr. Yoons government a dictatorship by prosecutors and accusing him of using the criminal justice system to intimidate and discredit his political enemies. Mr. Lee began his hunger strike a means of political protest often used during South Koreas years of military dictatorship on Aug. 31, first in a tent in front of the National Assembly building and later in his offices. He said Mr. Yoon had presided over a retreat of democracy in South Korea. Indias foreign ministry rejected the Canadian allegations on Tuesday morning as absurd and politically motivated, saying that Canada had long provided shelter to Khalistani terrorists and extremists who threaten Indias security. Khalistan is what Sikh separatists call the independent state they seek to create. The ministry said that Mr. Modi had completely rejected the allegations when Mr. Trudeau presented them to him. We urge the government of Canada to take prompt and effective legal action against all anti-India elements operating from their soil, the ministry said in a statement. It later said that it had moved to expel a senior Canadian diplomat based in India. The allegation that Indias government was involved in a political killing in Canada is likely to further corrode relations between the two countries. Earlier this month, Canada suspended negotiations on a trade deal with India that were scheduled to have been concluded this year because of the assassination allegations, it now appears. During the G20, Mr. Modi excluded Mr. Trudeau from the list of leaders with whom he held formal bilateral meetings. Mr. Trudeau said many Canadians of Indian origin they make up about 4 percent of the population had been angered by the killing and in some cases feared for their personal safety. There are about 1.4 million Canadians of Indian heritage, many of whom are Sikhs; they include Jagmeet Singh, the leader of the opposition New Democratic Party, which is keeping Mr. Trudeaus minority government in power. Singh is a common surname and middle name in Punjab. Mr. Nijjar, 45, was shot near a Sikh temple in Surrey, British Columbia. At a news conference in June, investigators from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police said he had been ambushed by masked men, but would not say whether the attack appeared politically motivated. After the powerful storm once known as Hurricane Lee traveled 3,000 miles across the Atlantic toward New England and Canada, where it made landfall on Saturday, the storms remnants have made one more journey: to the coasts of Britain and Ireland. The storm system is helping usher in traditional autumn weather across Britain this week with cool, wind-swept rains on Tuesday and Wednesday. Grahame Madge, a spokesman for the Met Office, Britains national weather service, said on Tuesday that it was not unusual for former hurricanes to enter this part of the world. He said this particular system would bring a significant amount of rainfall to parts of Britain, but no hurricane conditions. The Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for heavy rain for much of Wales and northwest England. Be aware of the possibility of flooding and travel disruption in these areas on Tuesday and Wednesday, forecasters said. The Sept. 6 missile strike on Kostiantynivka in eastern Ukraine was one of the deadliest in the country in months, killing at least 15 civilians and injuring more than 30 others. The weapons payload of metal fragments struck a market, piercing windows and walls and wounding some victims beyond recognition. Less than two hours later, President Volodymyr Zelensky blamed Russian terrorists for the attack, and many media outlets followed suit. Throughout its invasion of Ukraine, Russia has repeatedly and systematically attacked civilians and struck schools, markets and residences as a deliberate tactic to instill fear in the populace. In Kostiantynivka in April, they shelled homes and a preschool, killing six. But evidence collected and analyzed by The New York Times, including missile fragments, satellite imagery, witness accounts and social media posts, strongly suggests the catastrophic strike was the result of an errant Ukrainian air defense missile fired by a Buk launch system. The attack appears to have been a tragic mishap. Air defense experts say missiles like the one that hit the market can go off course for a variety of reasons, including an electronic malfunction or a guidance fin that is damaged or sheared off at the time of launch. A heros welcome awaited President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine on his first trip to the United States after Russias full-scale invasion, which came on the heels of two back-to-back military advances that showcased Ukrainian momentum to the West. Mr. Zelensky spoke to a joint session of Congress last December, highlighting the successes and appealing for continued aid. Mr. Zelenskys second visit, beginning on Tuesday, is a more delicate political mission, coming in the face of skepticism over assistance to Ukraine from some Republican lawmakers and amid a slow-moving and so far inconclusive counteroffensive on which many hopes in the war had been pinned. Mr. Zelensky will attend the U.N. General Assembly meeting in New York, where he is expected to continue an effort to win support among developing nations that have wavered or leaned toward Russia. Then he will travel to Washington to meet with congressional leaders and visit the White House. The Ukrainian president is approaching his appearances with a more balanced message. He remains a tireless advocate for military assistance for the Ukrainian Army, but has infused his pleas with deep expressions of gratitude for what the West has already provided. Two weeks after replacing its defense minister, Ukraine dismissed all six of its deputy ministers on Monday, deepening the housecleaning at a ministry that had drawn criticism for corruption in procurement as the military budget ballooned during the war. The shake-up in President Volodymyr Zelenskys wartime leadership team came as he headed to the United States, keen to demonstrate to American officials and other Western leaders that his government is not squandering on either graft or mismanagement the tens of billions of dollars in aid they have sent to Ukraine. Mr. Zelensky is scheduled to address the United Nations General Assembly in person on Tuesday in New York, and later in the week to meet with President Biden and members of Congress in Washington in his ongoing efforts to shore up support for military aid. He is expected to argue that defending Europes borders from an expansionist Russia in Ukraine serves Western interests in preventing a wider war and the destabilization of the European Union. In Ukraines fight to take back territory seized by the Russian invasion, the chain of command for battlefield decisions runs directly from Mr. Zelensky to the militarys uniformed general staff, largely bypassing the civilians at the defense ministry, so the turnover is not expected to have an immediate effect on the course of the war. The ministrys role is primarily not in tactics but logistics procurement, salaries and benefits where changes may not be felt right away. Five Iranian Americans detained by Iran were allowed to leave the country on Monday, according to Iranian and White House officials, after an agreement was reached to free them in return for the dismissal of federal charges against five imprisoned Iranians and the unfreezing of $6 billion in Iranian assets. The Americans took off in a plane from Tehran just before 9 a.m. Eastern time and were expected to fly to Doha, the capital of Qatar. Officials said that they would be given brief medical checkups before flying to Washington on a U.S. government plane. Several of the Iranian American prisoners, who hold dual citizenship, had been moved from the notorious Evin prison to a hotel last month, according to officials at the State Department and the National Security Council. The U.S. government had deemed the five wrongfully detained. Their release comes after more than two years of quiet negotiations between Washington and Tehran. Heres what we know about the detainees who left Iran: Siamak Namazi Siamak Namazi, 51, an Iranian American businessman, has become the American citizen that Iran has acknowledged imprisoning for the longest amount of time. He flew to Iran from his home in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, in the summer of 2015 to visit his parents and attend a funeral, but was charged with collaborating with a hostile government a reference to the United States. When Iraqs prime minister addresses the United Nations General Assembly in New York this week, he is hoping to persuade the world that he is the leader who can finally solve his countrys persistent problems of corruption and political instability and make it a reliable partner for the region. He asserts that as the first Iraqi leader since the U.S. invasion in 2003 to have spent his entire life within the country, he is better able to understand what Iraqis have been through, and to make changes. Every other prime minister after the toppling of Saddam Hussein spent years in exile or working abroad, but Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, 53, never fled Iraq, despite Mr. Husseins having ordered the execution of his father and other close relatives. I am a product of the institutions of the state, Mr. al-Sudani said in a recent interview in Baghdad, and I understand the citizens and their priorities. He described himself as part of a second generation of post-Hussein politicians, and said those with his background were closer to the people and understood that the street wants a change. A drone attack on a small airport killed three members of an elite Iraqi Kurdish counterterrorism task force that operates in the semiautonomous region of Kurdistan in northern Iraq. Three task force members were also wounded in the attack on the airport, which is about 17 miles southeast of Sulaymaniyah, the second largest city in Kurdistan. Turkey and more recently Iran have targeted Kurdish militants from their countries who shelter in Iraqs Kurdistan region. The airport, mostly used by small agricultural planes for spraying pesticides, was recently repurposed to also be used as a training camp for Kurdish counterterrorism forces. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Separatists in Karabakh demand $4,000 a person, from those who want to go to Armenia together with Russian peacekeepers, Armenian blogger Natalie Aleksanyan wrote on social media, Trend reports. "Earlier we were told that it was Azerbaijan blocking people's crossing, but now it has become known that the separatist regime in Karabakh, which is acting together with peacekeepers, is to blame. They have taken a lot of money from people," she said. Aleksanyan also contacted her friends living in Karabakh and they confirmed this information. Thus, the lies of Armenians and the separatist regime in Karabakh about the "blockade" were once again exposed. Azerbaijan has not blocked a single road. Free movement of persons of Armenian origin is ensured daily from the Lachin border checkpoint. Hundreds of Libyans protested on Monday from the devastated eastern city of Derna, demanding the removal of those responsible a week after torrential rains burst two dams and unleashed a catastrophe that killed thousands. Some protesters stood on the muddy, rocky earth that the floods carried through the city center on Sept. 11, washing entire neighborhoods and their inhabitants into the Mediterranean Sea. Others perched on the roof of a mosque that still stood, and a number appeared to be part of relief and rescue efforts, dressed in white biohazard suits and reflective vests. Aguila, out, out, they yelled, referring to Aguila Saleh, the speaker of Libyas Parliament, who has deflected blame for the disaster and called it fate. In a televised speech on Thursday night, he appeared to reject accusations that the scale of the calamity was rooted in government mismanagement and neglect, which angered many Libyans. The cries of the protesters were part of a rising chorus of calls to hold leaders across the divided North African country accountable. Specifically, they want an international investigation into the circumstances that led to the bursting of the two dams on the edge of Derna. Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, and Elon Musk, the owner of X, the social media platform formerly called Twitter, have both faced intense scrutiny and criticism for most of the year. Mr. Netanyahu has been the target of a nine-month wave of mass protests against his deeply contentious effort to reduce the power of Israels Supreme Court. Mr. Musk has been accused, among other things, of tolerating and even encouraging a surge of antisemitic abuse on X. On Monday morning, the two men sought to find a respite from those furors in each others company. Mr. Netanyahu, beginning a weeklong trip to the United States, took a 15-hour overnight flight to California, where the men met at a factory for Tesla, Mr. Musks electric car company, and broadcast an unusual, hourlong conversation live on X that allowed them to deflect from their respective crises. The United Nations General Assembly convenes on Tuesday in the shadow of the second year of war in Ukraine, amid a series of climate related catastrophes and at a time of increasing divisions in the world that will hamper efforts to address the litany of problems contributing to the strains. Underscoring the tensions, only President Biden among the leaders of the five permanent members of the Security Council the United States, Russia, China, France and Britain will attend the meeting. Ukraines president, Volodymyr Zelensky, will be there in person for the first time since Russia invaded his country, though Ukraine is not dominating the agenda as it did last year. This years gathering was planned with an eye to growing demands from the nations of the global south, an informal group of developing and underdeveloped countries. They have been frustrated by the worlds attention on the conflict in Ukraine while their crises have received minimal attention and funding, diplomats said. Responding to those demands, the U.N. has scheduled discussions during the General Assembly on climate change, sovereign debt relief and ways to help struggling countries reach the U.N.s development goals on prosperity, health, development, education and gender equality. A UK man has set a new world record for the most tattoos of the same name on the body after having his daughters name tattooed a whopping 667 times. Mark Owen Evans originally got his name mentioned in the Guinness Book of Records in 2017, when he was featured for having his daughters name tattooed on his back 267 times. However, in 2020, he was dethroned by Diedra Vigil, a 27-year-old woman who had her own name tattooed on her body 300 times. Even though there wasnt much space left on his back, Evans was determined to get his world record back, so he kept having his daughters name, Lucy, on his thighs. After going under the needle for five and a half hours for all 400 tattoos 200 on each leg Mark once again holds the Guinness record for the most tattoos of the same name on the body 667. Photo: Mark Owen Evans I couldnt wait to claim the record back and dedicate this to my daughter, Mark told Guinness Records. I love that Im literally wearing my record and it goes everywhere with me. Evans said that he came u with the idea of setting the unusual record as a way to celebrate his daughters birth. He initially set out to have it inked 100 times in the book outline on his back, but thanks to the two talented tattoo artists involved in the project, he ended up with 267 name tattoos. Impressively, the two artists at Dexterity Ink in Wrexham, UK, managed to get it done in just one hour. having extended his lead by more than 300 tattooed names, its hard to imagine anyone contesting Marks record anytime soon, but just in case anyone ever tries, hell probably tattoo Lucy on other parts of his body to get his record back. Hes got plenty of space, and his daughter has a short name. Interestingly, the record for most signatures tattooed on the body belongs to Funky Matas, a Florida-based entertainer who has 225 signatures on his back. A 39-year-old Japanese man has been described as trans-age after reportedly identifying as 28 because its an age that better describes his still immature personality. In the age of self-identified diversity where anyone is free to identify as whatever they want, a Japanese man has come out as trans-age, meaning that he chooses to identify as 28 years old, despite having been born 39 years ago. The Kyoto-based man known only as Jackie appeared on the reality show ABEMA Prime where he explained that he didnt feel comfortable as a 39-year-old man, so he decided to be 28 instead. Apparently, the trans-age man settled on this particular age, because it strikes a good balance between being an adult and still having a childish side without attracting the judgment of others. During the program that catapulted him to temporary online stardom, Jackie said that the idea of becoming trans-age and identifying as 11 years younger was inspired by an interaction with his boss at work. During one exchange, his superior asked How can you not know how to do this at your age? It made him feel bad. so he decided to adopt an age he felt more comfortable at. Jackies story went viral in Japan back in May, but the concept of trans-age has remained a hot topic on social media ever since. Although many mocked the idea of choosing ones age rather than using their biological one, some believe that the trans-age concept eliminates various restrictions, and can even make life more fun as you can virtually go back to being a child In Jackies case, he chose to identify as a younger self, but being trans-age allows a person to add years to their age all the way to infinity, disregard their age completely, or even use imaginary numbers or equations to describe their age. Apparently, one can even have multiple ages. Basically, anything goes Arkansas Seeks Help to Grow Economy Fri., Oct. 27, 2023 The Arkansas Dept. of Commerce is looking for PR, marketing and advertising services to generate awareness that it is a desirable place to grow, relocate or start a business. Chip Scarinzi I live in the San Francisco Bay Area, which means were entering the warmest months of the calendar year: A late summer after the cool ocean breezes and heavy fog of June, July, and August. However, that doesnt mean the mind shouldnt drift toward the winter months. In fact, if youre planning on making some noise at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January, the clock is already ticking. The world is different now than it was a few years ago, as much as were all getting back to normal, more or less. And while CES 2023 drew a smaller crowd than we had all grown accustomed to prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was no small step forward that more than 100,000 people returned to Las Vegas last year. One more year removed from the worst of things, all signs point to many more adding the largest consumer products showcase in the world to their calendars in 2024. So, with that in mind, its time to start acting on your most ambitious CES aspirations. As you begin the planning process, here are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your next visit to the Las Vegas Strip is your best yet: Tap into key CES topics of note. Every year, the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) settles on an overarching theme for CES. In 2024, and for the second year in a row, theyll emphasize the collaborative campaign, Human Security for All (HS4A). Emerging from a partnership between several organizations including the CTA, the initiative focuses on the role technology can play in improving the human condition. There are many ways of interpreting this purpose, but brands participating in CES this year should consider what role they or their products play in making life better for allbe it access to healthcare, food security, personal safety and privacy, or otherwise. There will always be value in aligning your CES strategy with key themes, but making an authentic (that part is important) connection with the theme of doing good for humanity is something we should all probably give a bit more thought. Lean into CES reputation as a new product show. After all these years, CES is still very much a new product show. So, whats new within the walls of your company? While its best to announce products that will, at some point, be made available for purchase, dont be afraid to pull the curtain back a bit and share some under-development product innovation that may still be a bit further away. CES is an opportunity to showcase innovationboth in the here and now, as well as what may yet come. Immersive, hands-on experiences often deliver the goods. While you will surely do a lot of talking at CES, its best to let your CES story and products speak for you. How? As your team begins to map out the brand experience at the show, consider how you might be able to give booth or suite attendeesespecially media and analystsimmersive, hands-on time with your product(s). Its one thing to tell someone you have a great product, but another thing entirely to let them experience it for themselves. Consider a surround-sound content strategy for your brand, not just your news. Every year, a few brands will dominate CES media coverage simply by virtue of their reputation for innovation. However, a little creativity and rigor around content development can go a long way toward ensuring success for your brand. For example, carve out time and structure for your teams on the ground at the show to embrace the broader CES experience. Set them loose with a smartphone and a well-organized plan and turn them into roving content creators. While many brands focus their energy on securing media coverage, briefing analysts, executing a few strategic social posts, and meeting with partners and customers, theres broader opportunity for exposure with a little creative will and permission to roam. One cautionary note: Make sure to set clear creative guardrails so those smartphone videos shine vs. embarrass. Start everything earlyearlier than you think. We all know the dates of CESwhy put anything off? Ive always advocated for deploying a far-reaching pre-brief media strategy because I find its the absolute best way to set product launches and brand experiences up for success while easing the burden on reporters who will undoubtedly be pulled in a million directions as the show comes into focus. If youve waited to pitch the media until launch day, its too late. Dont forget the folks at home. If the virtual CES of 2021 taught us anything, its that it is entirely possible to build a winning CES programand from a media perspective, cover the showfrom the comfort of home. And while many reporters returned to Las Vegas in 2023 (you may recall that 2022 was a bit of a washout in terms of media attendance due to a COVID-19 surge), media outlets sent fewer reporters than in pre-pandemic times. Id expect that this will continue, though Im sure well see a few more reporters roaming the halls on tired legs. Still, the brands generating the most attention will be the ones who create positive experiences for those covering the show from far afield. And finally, yes, ask yourself if you have an AI story. There's no avoiding the inevitable AI spotlight at CES 2024. The various permutations of Generative AI has been the topic of the year and it will surely be on the tip of everyones tongue at CES 2024. How is AI impacting your brand? How has it impacted product development, if at all? Consider what might be possible to say about this burgeoning technology that has carved out sizeable real estate in 2023 tech conversations and will only continue to grow in influence and impact. But don't just force an AI angle because its all the ragemake sure your AI story is authentically yours and maps honestly to your product narrative and brand value. The beauty of CES is that there are a million ways to run a successful program. And every year, its fun to do a bit of tinkering and try new things. How will you approach the show this year? Id love to hear your thoughts and, in a few months time, hope to see you in Las Vegas! *** Chip Scarinzi is head of technology at Ruder Finn. Four graduates from Co Offaly have commenced ESBs prestigious Graduate Development programme. They join 76 other graduates from Irish and international third-level institutions, spanning the fields of engineering, IT, HR, commercial and finance, who have commenced the two-and-a-half-year development programme with ESB. Pictured above at their induction at ESBs head office, Fitzwilliam Street, Dublin 2 alongside Paddy Hayes, ESB Chief Executive, is (Back L to R) Darragh OBrien (Tullamore, Co Offaly), Shane ORourke (Tullamore, Co Offaly), Martin Thomas ONeill (Carrigeen, Kilkenny), Sean Howard (Slieverue, Co Kilkenny) and Ciaran Nolan (Mullingar, Co Westmeath), (Front L to R) Charlie Dermody (Portlaoise, Co Laois), Eva Rapkauskaite (Cloondara, Co Longford), Sarah Hutchinson (Portarlington, Co Offaly) and Callum Bergin (Tullamore, Co Offaly). This years graduates will be placed across five business units ESB Networks, Generation and Trading, Engineering and Major Projects, Customer Solutions and Enterprise Services. The tailored programme offers each graduate the opportunity to gain experience by working on challenging assignments and major projects that offer exposure to the varied businesses of the organisation. ESBs Graduate Development Programme aims to recruit talent to drive innovation and support the delivery of ESBs Net Zero by 2040 strategy. This years intake is the largest number of graduates ESB has recruited in over five years. Each graduate will receive a range of supports including being partnered with individual mentors from within their business units, IT equipment and access to allow hybrid working as part of ESBs smart working offering. Sinead Kilkelly, ESBs Executive Director, People & Organisation Development, said: We are delighted to welcome the largest cohort of graduates to ESB in over five years. Nurturing professional and personal development is at the heart of our programme, and we see great potential for what our graduates, individually and together, can achieve during their time with ESB. We wish each graduate every success and are confident that they will make a difference to the achievement of our Net Zero by 2040 strategy. ESB is also pleased to announce that recruitment for our 2024 Graduate Development Programme will open on Monday, 18th September and we are inviting applications from all final-year students. Applications can be made via the ESB website: www.esb.ie/careers Imagine transforming a bathroom or shower in as little as one day? Thats the power of Bath Fitter! Our innovative process means no demolition mess, which allows customers to have their space back up and operational in as little as one day. Bath Fitter offers showers, bath-to-shower conversions, and seamless, one-piece walls. Our baths and showers are made of high quality, non-porous acrylic that is durable, as well as easy to clean and maintain. We developed and perfected our acrylic material and manufacture it at our state-of- the-art plants in Tennessee, USA and in Quebec, Canada, which is why we confidently offer a strong 10- year product warranty. Our specially trained consultants take precise measurements of our customers existing bath before we produce a custom-made bath, or shower, that is carefully fitted during a watertight installation process. Our one-piece vertically seamless walls mean no grout, which, in turn, means easy cleaning and maintenance. Bath Fitter was started by three imaginative and industrious brothers more than 38 years ago and the company has been disrupting the bathroom renovation market since then, with more than 2 million baths installed all over the USA, Canada and Ireland. Since establishing itself in Limerick, Ireland in 2020, Bath Fitter has been successfully transforming baths in hotels, hospitals, nursing homes, council housing, schools, and modular spaces. Michael Prendergast, Vice President of European Sales explains, "Our first installer was hired almost immediately, followed soon after by the first B2B order. Its been a great start and a real team effort. Were excited to bring Bath Fitters innovative and cost-effective renovation solutions to Europe. The ability to transform a bathroom in a single day gives Bath Fitter advantages over existing technologies and provides our clients with professional and hassle-free renovation and new construction options with many years of service. Bath Fitter manages every step of the transformation process, from planning to manufacturing to installation. Customized solutions for every business need include endless design and budget options. Bath Fitter has already hired several talented and skilled individuals for installation, sales, and marketing positions at its location in Limerick and the UK, as we focus on winning and serving new clients in Europe. For a free consultation call 061 524993 or visit www.bathfitter.ie * Sponsored content The Saudi Exchange has launched four new indices, marking a significant step forward in the development of the Saudi capital market. These indices, based on company size and IPO performance, provide investors with a broad range of investment benchmarks while enabling institutions to offer new products to meet growing investor strategies. The Size Indices introduced by the Saudi Exchange reflect the market's composition, with Tadawul Large companies accounting for 70% of the free float market cap, Tadawul Medium-sized companies accounting for 20%, and Tadawul Small companies comprising the remaining 10%. The Size Indices provide investors with benchmarks to broaden their investment strategies and to capitalise on specific market opportunities. Tadawul IPO Index In addition, the Tadawul IPO Index will be introduced to track the performance of companies listed on the Main Market within the past five years. This index will provide investors with a benchmark to evaluate the performance of their IPOs and a unique opportunity to invest in new and rapidly growing companies. Similar to the current Tadawul All Share Index (TASI), the maximum weight of any index constituent will be 15%, ensuring a balanced representation of the entire market. These new indices serve as valuable benchmarks for specific investment products, allowing institutional investors to track the performance and activities of different segments of the market. Balanced representation Mohammed Al Rumaih, CEO of the Saudi Exchange, said: "By introducing size indices that reflect the market's composition, we aim to provide a balanced representation of the market and offer investors a diverse range of investment opportunities. Furthermore, the Tadawul IPO Index will enable investors to participate in the growth potential of new and rapidly expanding companies listed on the Main Market. We believe these indices will serve as valuable benchmarks for investment products and will allow both local and foreign investors to access and benefit from our dynamic and growing capital market.-- TradeArabia News Service BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Armenians inhumanly treated Azerbaijanis captured and taken hostage during the first Karabakh war, subjecting them to cruel torture, Deputy Prosecutor General of Azerbaijan, Military Prosecutor Khanlar Valiyev said at the international conference on "Increasing national and global efforts to clarify the fate of missing persons", Trend reports. According to him, so far, the Armenian side has not provided any information about the fate of 3,890 Azerbaijanis who went missing during the first Karabakh war. The State Commission on Prisoners of War, Hostages, and Missing Persons is organizing an international conference on "Increasing national and global efforts to clarify the fate of missing persons" in Baku on September 18 with the participation of former heads of state and government of foreign countries, representatives of international organizations, including humanitarian organizations, as well as international political experts. Big Cat On The Loose: Leopard Spotted Yet Again Near IT Park In Kudlu, Residents Panic Gowri Habba And Ganesh Chaturthi 2023: Bengaluru Police Issue Guidelines For Everyone Bengaluru oi-Madhuri Adnal In view of Gowri Habba and Ganesh Chaturthi 2023 in the city, the Bengaluru police have released a set of guidelines that must be adhered to during the festival. The authorities have made it mandatory to obtain permission for the installation of Ganesh idols in public areas. Here are the guidelines issued by the police that organisers are required to follow: The collection of illegal funds for the installation of Ganesh idols is strictly prohibited. Police permission is a prerequisite for the installation of Ganesh idols in public spaces. Organisers must secure special permission for the construction of pandals. Ganesh idols should not be placed at disputed locations. Organizers will be held accountable for any untoward incidents occurring during the procession. Organisers are obligated to have firefighting equipment and CCTV cameras at their pandals. The use of wood, kerosene, and any fire-related materials is prohibited within pandals. Approval from the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM) and the fire department is mandatory for the provision of electricity within pandals. The use of speakers is allowed only between 6 am and 10 pm. DJ sound systems are strictly prohibited. Idol immersion must be completed by 10 pm. To streamline the permission process for Gowri Habba and Ganesh Chaturthi 2023 celebrations, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has established 63 single-window clearance centers throughout the city. Gowri Habba is a Hindu festival celebrated in Karnataka, occurring one day prior to Ganesh Chaturthi. This festival is dedicated to the goddess Gowri, also known as Gauri or Parvati, who is revered as the mother of Ganesha. It holds great significance in Karnataka and is primarily observed by married women. In North Indian states such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh, a similar festival is known as Hartalika. Gowri, as the mother of Ganesha and the consort of Lord Shiva, is revered across India for her ability to grant her devotees courage and strength. According to Hindu belief, Gowri is considered the incarnation of Aadhi Shakthi Mahamaya, representing the divine feminine energy. She is regarded as the Shakti, or power, of Shiva. Traditionally, it is believed that on Thadige, which falls on the third day of the month of Bhadra, Gowri visits her parents' home, just like a married woman returns to her maternal household. The following day, Ganesha, her son, arrives as if to take her back to their celestial abode at Kailasa. Big Cat On The Loose: Leopard Spotted Yet Again Near IT Park In Kudlu, Residents Panic New Addition To The Family! Kannada Actor Dhruva Sarja, Wife Prerana Shankar Blessed With A Son Bengaluru oi-Madhuri Adnal Kannada actor Dhruva Sarja and his wife, Prerana, are overjoyed to welcome their second child, a son, into their family. The couple, already parents to a daughter, had previously announced the pregnancy in a heartwarming video during the auspicious Varamahalakshmi puja. Dhruva shared the wonderful news on his social media platform, eliciting excitement and warm wishes from fans. He revealed that the baby was born through a normal delivery. In his Instagram story, Dhruva expressed his joy, writing, "Blessed with a baby again. Normal delivery." The pregnancy announcement was marked by a special video that featured a jungle theme. Dhruva was seen holding his daughter while standing in an air balloon with his pregnant wife. Despite being six months pregnant at the time, the couple had chosen to keep the news a secret until now. Chiranjeevi Sarja's brother Dhruva Sarja, wife Prerana test positive for COVID-19 Dhruva Sarja and Prerana Shankar, who were childhood friends, later embarked on a romantic journey together. They got engaged on December 9, 2018, and subsequently tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony in November 2019. In October 2022, they welcomed their first daughter. On the professional front, Dhruva Sarja is preparing to grace the silver screen in the Kannada action thriller "Martin." Directed by A. P. Arjun, the screenplay has been penned by Arjun Sarja. The film features an extravagant dance number, choreographed by Imran Sardhariya, starring Dhruva Sarja and Giorgia Andriani. This lavish song is set to be the movie's highlight. With music by Mani Sharma and lyrics by Pramod Maravante, the song reportedly comes with a staggering budget of Rs 3.5 crores. The shooting for this track was completed in just 10 days, following five days of rehearsals. "Martin" is expected to feature a total of four songs, with the remaining compositions set to wrap up by October 10. In North, Upper Caste Man Can Urinate On Lower Caste Boy, Nobody Can Question: DMK MP Chennai oi-Prakash KL DMK leader TKS Elangovan on Monday triggered a controversy with his statement on the 'urinating incidents' that occurred in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh a few months ago. While attacking Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, he said that an upper caste man can urinate on a lower caste boy and nobody makes it a big issue. "In the North, an upper caste man can urinate on a lower caste boy and nobody can question. That is the kind of social justice from Mr Ravi's area. How he is acting towards the lower caste people I don't know...I am calling him Mr Ravi because he has failed to act as a Governor," ANI quoted him in a tweet. Tamil Nadu Rain: What Weather Looks Like In Chennai During Ganesh Chaturthi Festival? The DMK leader was referring to the incidents that occurred in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. A man was caught peeing on a tribal man in July and the clip of the incident had gone viral. This had become a major issue in the poll-bound state. #WATCH | Chennai: "In the North, an upper caste man can urinate on a lower caste boy and nobody can question. That is the kind of social justice from Mr Ravi's area. How he is acting towards the lower caste people I don't know...I am calling him Mr Ravi because he has failed to pic.twitter.com/JuwWizFG4q ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2023 Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Chouhan had washed the feet of the victim and apologised to him over the incident. In a similar incident, a man urinated on the ears of a Dalit youth in Uttar Pradesh's Sonbhadra district. Attacking the Governor for not clearing the bills, the DMK leader then said, "What is the duty of the Governor? To give ascent to the bills passed by the legislature but he has not done that duty and is serving as the stooge of the RSS group." The Governor and the ruling DMK and its allies have sparred over a number of issues including his reluctance to approve the TN Assembly bill seeking NEET exemption for the state. Meanwhile, the DMK had recently hit the headlines after its minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, son of Chief Minister MK Stalin, targeted Sanatana Dharma by comparing it with Dengue, Malaria and Covid-19. Addressing a gathering, Udhayanidhi had said, "There are some things which we have to eradicate and we can't merely oppose. Mosquitoes, dengue fever, malaria, corona, all these are things which we cannot oppose, we have to eradicate them. Sanatanam is also like this." War Of Words Breaks Out Between AIADMK Leaders, BJPs Annamalai Over His Remarks On Anna The minister was speaking at an event organised by the Tamil Nadu Progressive Writers Artists Association on the theme of 'eradication of Sanatana'. "I thank the organisers of this conference for giving me the opportunity to deliver a special address. You have kept the name of the conference as 'Sanatana Abolition Conference' rather than 'Anti-Sanatana Conference', I appreciate that," news agency ANI quoted Udhayanidhi as saying. "A few things cannot be opposed, that should be abolished only. We can't oppose dengue, mosquitoes, malaria, or corona. We have to eradicate this, that's how we have to eradicate Sanatana. Rather opposing Sanatana it should be eradicated," Udhayanidhi was quoted as saying. Social Discrimination Still Major Problem In TN: Governor Jabs DMK Over 'Sanatana Dharma' Row Chennai oi-Prakash KL Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi on Monday took a jab at the DMK over 'Sanatana Dharma' row saying those talking about eradicating Hinduism have a hidden agenda to break this country. Speaking at an event, the Governor said, "Our Constitution is not against 'dharma' ..it is the people who want to break this country, they have given a distorted interpretation of secularism. We have to understand the true meaning of secularism in our constitution.... those talking about eradicating Hinduism have a hidden agenda to break this country in collaboration with hostile foreign powers," Recently, Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin had triggered a controversy after comparing 'Sanatana Dharma' with Dengue and Malaria. The Governor said that such forces will not succeed as Bharat has inherent strength. "Unfortunately, there is unacceptable social discrimination in our society. We have untouchability and social discrimination. A large section of our brothers and sisters are not treated with equality. It is not what the Hindu dharma says. It is a social evil and it must be eradicated. #WATCH | Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi at an event yesterday said, "Our Constitution is not against 'dharma' ..it is the people who want to break this country, they have given a distorted interpretation of secularism. We have to understand the true meaning of secularism in our pic.twitter.com/TY024btXmW ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2023 Women Entering Temples As Priests Under Tamil Nadu's Dravidian Model, Says Stalin He said that social discrimination is a major problem in Tamil Nadu as well. "Every day, I hear stories of our brothers & sisters from Scheduled Castes not being allowed access to temples. In our state, youth are wearing caste bands. A State which taught so much about social justice is exploiting people in the name of caste. We don't hear stories of such discrimination from neighbouring states," However, his comments did not go well with DMK's ally Congress. Sivaganga MP Chidambaram said, "The Governor of Tamil Nadu has always sort of comments which are unbecoming of the office he holds. He was a troublemaker in his previous assignment in Nagaland, and he continues to be a troublemaker in Tamil Nadu. I would urge the President to withdraw the pleasure of this Governor and recall him immediately. He always crosses the boundaries of constitutional functionary." Congress MP Manickam Tagore said that the Tamil Nadu Governor should stop playing politics and "do his work." BJP Is Not In Alliance With AIADMK, Will Decide Before Polls, Says D Jayakumar India oi-Madhuri Adnal All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) leader D. Jayakumar said Sunday that the party is not currently in an alliance with the BJP, and any decision about an election pact in Tamil Nadu will be made closer to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. This came after strong objections regarding the comments made by the state BJP chief, K Annamalai, concerning the late CN Annadurai, the mentor of AIADMK founder MGR. Senior AIADMK leader D Jayakumar said, "BJP is not in alliance with AIADMK. We will decide about the alliance during the elections only." He went on to criticise Annamalai, asserting that he is unsuitable to serve as the BJP's state president. Jayakumar accused Annamalai of making disparaging remarks about late leaders solely for self-promotion. BJP is not in alliance with AIADMK. We will decide about the alliance during the elections only. This is not my personal view. This is our party's stand. BJP cadres want an alliance with the AIADMK but Annamalai (TN BJP President K Annamalai) doesn't want an alliance. He always pic.twitter.com/iAdjq4toY3 ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2023 Jayakumar also highlighted that when Annamalai had previously made critical comments about AIADMK leaders, including the late J Jayalalithaa, the AIADMK had requested restraint from the BJP leader. He emphasized that the party's members will not tolerate any disrespect towards the late chief minister. War Of Words Breaks Out Between AIADMK Leaders, BJPs Annamalai Over His Remarks On Anna "Annamalai doesn't appear to desire an alliance with AIADMK, despite the wishes of BJP workers. Are we expected to endure this constant criticism of our leaders? Why should we continue to support you? The BJP cannot establish a presence here. Your voter base is well-known. You are recognized because of us," Jayakumar stated during a press conference. He firmly asserted, "We cannot tolerate any further criticism of our leaders." When asked if these statements reflected his personal opinion, Jayakumar clarified, "Have I ever spoken to you in any capacity other than as a representative of the party? I only convey what the party decides." Shocking: Local Congress Leader Shot Dead In His Residence in Moga, Punjab Baljinder Singh Balli, a local Congress leader from Ajitwal block of the Moga district in Punjab, was shot dead by an unidentified man at his residence. The entire incident was captured on CCTV footage. Senior police officials have reached the spot and investigations are underway. India -Krishna Kripa In an alarming episode that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Punjab, a local Congress leader was brutally gunned down in his own home. The incident occurred on September 18th in Dalla village, Moga district, where Baljinder Singh Balli resided. Balli, aged 45 and serving as the president of the Congress party's Ajitwal block in Moga district, was fatally shot by an unidentified assailant who forcefully entered his residence. The chilling event was captured on CCTV footage which purportedly shows the attacker firing at Balli before making a hasty escape. Following the attack, Balli was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital but tragically succumbed to his injuries. The shocking news of his untimely death has left both the political fraternity and common citizens deeply disturbed. Investigation Underway Following the incident, Senior Superintendent of Police J Elanchezhian along with other officers promptly arrived at the crime scene for inspection. According to police sources, an investigation into this horrific act is currently underway. Strong Condemnation from Political Leaders The brutal murder drew strong condemnation from prominent figures within Punjab's political sphere. Partap Singh Bajwa and Amrinder Singh Raja Warring - senior leaders from Punjab's Congress unit - expressed their outrage over this deplorable act. Bajwa took to social media platform X to express his grief over Ballis death: "In a harrowing incident today... I condemn this incident in the strongest possible terms." He further extended heartfelt condolences towards Balli's bereaved family members. Rising Gun Crime and Law & Order Situation This tragic event brings into focus once again concerns about escalating gun violence in Punjab under @AAPPunjab government. Bajwa, in his social media post, pointedly criticized the state government and directly held Chief Minister @BhagwantMann responsible for the deteriorating law and order situation. "Ever since @AAPPunjab formed the government in Punjab, the law and order situation has collapsed completely. Gun crime in the state has been on the rise," he wrote. He further added that CM Mann who also holds home portfolio should be held accountable for this alarming increase in gun-related crimes. In conclusion, this shocking incident of political violence underscores an urgent need to address escalating gun crime rates and restore a sense of security among citizens. It is imperative for authorities to take swift action not only to apprehend Balli's killer but also to implement effective measures aimed at curbing such acts of violence. The collective grief over Ballis death serves as a stark reminder of how critical it is for peace and stability to prevail within our society. Scores of Bus Marshals in Delhi Protest Over Four-Month Salary Delay Bus marshals deployed by the Delhi government staged protests at Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwals residence, demanding payment of salaries pending for the last four months. The protesters also gathered outside the residences of other ministers till late evening. Despite orders from the revenue minister, they have not received their wages due to a recent amendment act affecting control over services in the national capital. India -Krishna Kripa In a recent development in New Delhi, numerous bus marshals employed by the Delhi government held protests at Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwals residence and the Secretariat building on Monday. The reason behind their agitation was the non-payment of salaries for the past four months. This incident brought attention to an issue that has been brewing under the surface for some time now. Protests and Demands The protestors included male as well as female bus marshals who also demonstrated outside Delhi Revenue and Finance Minister Atishi's residence till late evening. They were adamant about not moving from their protesting spots until they received assurance about payment of their pending salaries. "We will not move from here unless we are guaranteed payment of our salaries," stated Aditya, one of the bus marshals involved in this protest. Government Response The Delhi government released a statement addressing this issue. It highlighted that despite orders from the revenue minister, these bus marshals along with civil defence volunteers have not yet received their due wages. The cause behind this delay was attributed to complications arising out of Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi Amendment Act-2023 pertaining to control over services in the national capital. Implications Of GNCTD Amendment Act 2023 The GNCTD Amendment Act 2023 is instrumental in vesting control over bureaucracy in central hands and aims at establishing an authority responsible for transfer and posting of Group-A officers. This act had received presidential assent on August 12th but it seems like its implementation has led to certain unforeseen issues such as delayed wage payments. Affectees Of The Situation This situation adversely affects more than just these protesting individuals; it impacts over 13,000 civil defence volunteers and home guards working under the Delhi government. These personnel have been assigned to DTC and Cluster buses with a primary objective of ensuring passenger safety, especially that of women. This ongoing wage issue could potentially jeopardize their motivation and commitment towards their duty. In conclusion, while the GNCTD Amendment Act 2023 might have been instituted with an aim to streamline bureaucracy in the national capital, it appears to be causing some unintended consequences such as this salary dispute. The situation demands immediate attention and resolution not only for these protesting bus marshals but also for thousands of other civil defence volunteers and home guards who are integral to maintaining public safety on Delhis public transportation system. It is hoped that swift action will be taken by the concerned authorities to resolve this matter so that these crucial staff members can return to their duties without financial worries. Delhi Govt's Ambitious Plan: More Registered Construction Workers And Increased Welfare Spending In an effort to improve worker registration and welfare, the Delhi government aims to increase registered construction workers from 13 lakh (2022-23) to 15 lakh this year. Additionally, spending on welfare schemes is set for a significant boost - up from Rs 12.66 crore last year to Rs 246 crore. India -Krishna Kripa In an ambitious move to uplift the welfare of construction workers in New Delhi, the city's government has set a target to increase the number of registered construction workers to 15 lakh (1.5 million) this year. This initiative was announced on Monday by officials who also revealed plans to enhance spending on various welfare schemes for these workers by 20 times. The push comes after Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal expressed dissatisfaction earlier this year over the low number of registered construction workers and stressed on increasing it further. According to official data, as of the end of fiscal year 2022-23, there were only 13 lakh (1.3 million) registered construction workers in India's capital city. Increased Spending on Welfare Schemes Besides augmenting registration numbers, another significant aspect of this campaign is a dramatic rise in funding for welfare schemes meant specifically for construction workers. The Delhi government plans to allocate Rs 246 crore ($33 million) towards these initiatives this year, marking a substantial increase from last year's allocation of just Rs 12.66 crore ($1.7 million). Last year saw more than 4,500 applications received from registered construction workers seeking benefits under various welfare schemes run by the Delhi Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board (DBOCWWB). However, only around half - just over 2,000 applications - were processed for benefits across different schemes at an expenditure cost totalling Rs 12.66 crore ($1.7 million), according to a labour department officer. Funding through Construction Cess The DBOCWWB had amassed a corpus fund amounting to Rs 4212.34 crore ($570 million) collected as 'construction cess' by the end of last fiscal year. A one per cent cess is levied on all private and official construction projects worth Rs 10 lakh ($13,500) or more. This cess is a significant source of funding for the welfare schemes aimed at supporting registered construction workers in the city. In conclusion, the Delhi government's initiative to increase both registration numbers and spending on welfare schemes for construction workers reflects a concerted effort to enhance the living conditions and social security of this vital workforce. The success of these initiatives will depend largely on efficient administration of funds and effective implementation of welfare schemes. It will be interesting to observe how these ambitious targets are met over the course of this fiscal year. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. The parallel opening of Aghdam-Khankendi and Lachin roads for trucks should be regarded as a success of Azerbaijani diplomacy, dean of UNEC's Faculty of Turkic World Economy, professor of Uludag University Mehmet Yuce told Trend. He noted that although Armenia claims that it has proposed to open these routes in parallel, this does not correspond to the facts. "On the contrary, although it was agreed to open these routes simultaneously on September 1, separatists in Karabakh prevented this. This initiative was related to Azerbaijan's policy towards Armenians living in Karabakh, and Armenia and the separatists in Karabakh tried to prevent this. As you know, there were two issues raised by Azerbaijani diplomacy in connection with this," he said. First, Mehmet Yuce noted that the delivery of aid to Khankendi via the Aghdam-Khankendi route means respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. Therefore, the cargo that the Russian Red Cross Society sent to the citizens of Armenian origin living in Karabakh was delivered via the Aghdam-Khankendi road. The signing of the memorandum of understanding between the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society and the Russian Red Cross Society is a step taken within the framework of respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Azerbaijan. "Secondly, Azerbaijan has repeatedly stated to the international community that the Armenians living in Karabakh are its citizens, and therefore the state is ready to undertake the obligation to ensure their safe residence. The opening of the Aghdam road does not cancel Azerbaijan's demand to withdraw all Armenian armed formations from Karabakh," he added. Meanwhile, the separatists in Karabakh finally submitted to Azerbaijan's conditions and agreed to the simultaneous opening of the Lachin road and the Aghdam-Khankendi road. Thus, the separatist leaders decided to accept the joint proposal of the office of the International Committee of the Red Cross in Khankendi and the command of the Russian peacekeepers on simultaneous transportation of food by ICRC vehicles along the Lachin road and the Aghdam-Khankendi road. The agreement on the simultaneous opening of these routes was actually reached on September 1. The separatists delayed this process for more than two weeks. Trucks belonging to the International Committee of the Red Cross, parallel to the Aghdam-Khankendi road, also passed through the Lachin border checkpoint. Ganesh Chaturthi 2023: Watch Chandrayaan-3 Themed Pandal In Kolkata India oi-Madhuri Adnal Ganesh Chaturthi 2023: A mesmerizing pandal inspired by ISRO's Chandrayaan-3 Moon mission has been erected in Kolkata, West Bengal. The video showcases the pandal designed in the likeness of Chandrayaan-3, featuring Lord Ganesha at its center. This remarkable creation has been assembled in Kolkata as the city readies itself to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi. Within the pandal, visitors will encounter a replica of the rocket employed by ISRO for the Chandrayaan-3 mission, prominently displayed atop the entrance gate. Upon passing through this gate, visitors will enter the central area where Lord Ganesha is reverently positioned. On August 23, India achieved a historic milestone as ISRO's ambitious third Moon mission successfully touched down on the Moon's south pole, elevating the nation into an exclusive group of four countries and marking it as the first to land on this uncharted lunar surface. Ganesh Chaturthi: No Sale Of Meat In Bengaluru Today Ganesh Chaturthi commemorates the birth of Lord Ganesha, ranking among the most widely celebrated Hindu festivals, spanning ten days of festivity. Legend holds that during this period, Lord Ganesha descended to Earth with his mother, Goddess Parvati. This year, Ganesh Chaturthi commences on September 19 and extends for ten days until September 29. #WATCH | West Bengal: A pandal based on the theme of ISRO's Chandrayaan-3 Moon mission has been prepared ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi in Kolkata. (17.09) pic.twitter.com/UI7zuMLTlK ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2023 It's worth noting that Chandrayaan-3 will also be featured in a Durga Puja marquee in Kolkata, where organizers plan to recreate India's triumphant moon mission to captivate pandal visitors. Within this pandal, the goddess will be depicted within a replica of the 'Vikram,' the Chandrayaan-3 lander, alongside a model of the rover 'Pragyan.' Gowri Habba And Ganesh Chaturthi 2023: Quotes, Greeting Messages, Wishes To Share The puja committee has aptly named their theme 'Chandralok-e Uma' (Goddess Durga on the Moon). This creative concept was devised collectively by all club members, without the need to hire external artists to bring it to life, according to an official. Visitors will experience the sensation of standing on the moon's surface, gazing at the lander, immersing themselves in this otherworldly atmosphere. Kerala Board Announces Dates For SSLC, HSE Exams 2024 India oi-Sushmita Halder The Kerala Board of Public Examination on Monday announced that the exams for SSLC Board 2024 is going to commence from March 4 and the exams for HSE Board is going to begin from March 1. Class 10 exams of the Kerala board 2024 is all set to begin with the first language part 1 paper on March 4 and and will conclude with the social science paper on March 25 while the Class 12 exams Kerala board exams will begin with physics, sociology and anthropology and main subject for Arts on March 1. Practical Evaluation of the Class 12 Kerala board will be conducted from January 22, 2024. For subjects without practical, the board while announcing the DHSE Kerala 2024 board exams date said, the exams will be conducted from 9:30 am to 12:15 pm including a cool off time of 15 minutes. For subjects with practical except biology and music, the exams will be held between 9:30 am and 11:45 am. The biology and music exams will be conducted from 9:30 am to 11:55 am and 9:30 am to 11:15 am respectively. The board will also conduct the Class 11 and 12 model exams prior to the first year and second year Kerala board exams in March. The model exams in the Kerala board is scheduled to be held from February 15 to February 21. The model exams will be held with an aim to make the students accustom with the exam format and assist the students to know their preparation status prior to their actual board exams. Apart from this, the board has also announced the time table for the first year higher secondary exams. The first year HSE Kerala board exams including for arts will be held from March 1 to March 26. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, September 19, 2023, 1:32 [IST] What Is The Construction Cost Of The New Parliament Building? MPs Will Receive A Special Hamper On 1st Day At New Parliament Building India oi-Sushmita Halder The members of the Parliament are all set to receive a special hamper of a copy of the Constitution of India, a commemorative coin featuring the new Parliament, and a postage stamp on the first day at the new Parliament building on Tuesday. Reportedly, MPs would receive their gift hampers after the Central Hall function. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and former Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren have also been invited to speak to commemorate the country's rich parliamentary legacy. The first session of the special Parliament session was held at the old building of the Parliament on Monday where the two Houses discussed the 'Parliamentary journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha - Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings' on the first day. While the Lok Sabha is set to meet at 1:15 pm on Tuesday at the new building, the Rajya Sabha will meet at 2:15 pm. New Building Of The Parliament Has 'Automated System' Amid Mic-Muted Row Earlier on Monday, PM Modi addressed the special Parliament session with an emotional speech from the old Parliament building for the last time. He recalled the contributions of former prime ministers including Jawaharlal Nehru, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and Manmohan Singh during his speech, paid tributes to the country's democratic traditions, and spoke about the history and legacy of the Parliament building. PM Modi said, "As we bid goodbye to this Parliament house, we must remember that though this house was built by the colonial government, it was built by our sweat and toil, by our countrymen and with our money." While paying tribute to every brick of the old Parliament, PM Modi said MPs will enter the new complex with "new hope and confidence". The new building of the Parliament complex was inaugurated on May 28 by PM Modi. Nipah Virus: Schools, Colleges Reopen After A Week As No New Case Since Sep 16 In Kozhikode Nipah Situation Is Totally Under Control In Kerala, Says Minister Veena George India oi-PTI The situation regarding the latest Nipah outbreak in Kerala is completely under control, and more than 200 samples from the high-risk contacts were tested negative, Kerala Health Minister Veena George said here on Monday. In an interview with PTI, the minister said so far 1,233 contacts have been traced and categorised into high-risk and low-risk contacts. ''A very positive thing is that all four patients under treatment are now stable, and the condition of the nine-year-old boy, who was on ventilator support, is improving clinically. He is now out of ventilator support and is being given minimal oxygen support,'' George said. A round-the-clock control room and 19 teams on the field have helped in the strict implementation of the protocol, bringing things under control, she said. No Nipah Virus For 2nd Day, Kerala Govt Says 'Outbreak Under Control' ''So far, we have six positive cases, and all the samples tested for the last three days were negative,'' the minister said. The Central teams who have been working with the Kerala health department have expressed their appreciation for the work the department has done to effectively contain the outbreak. ''They (the Central team members) sit in all discussions. Our team leaders will explain every day in the convergence meeting how a contact, which is very important, a very high-risk contact was identified. So the Central teams have really appreciated our work,'' George said. Three Central teams, one from ICMR, one from NIV, Pune, and one from the Epidemiological Institute, Chennai are in Kerala. They had earlier visited the containment zones and Nipah epicentre in 2018 and have also conducted bat surveillance. The system responded very well as per the protocol and guidelines, which were twice modified in 2021 and then in 2023, in the treatment and containment of Nipah, the minister said. ''Primarily, we are giving antiviral medicines like Remdesivir. The dosages for infants and adults are all well written. The protocol is being followed by both government and private hospitals,'' George said. Understanding the vulnerability of Kozhikode to the disease outbreak, a strict protocol has been followed since 2018. ''We have set up a testing lab at the Medical College, Kozhikode. In August this year, we tested 35 samples for the Nipah virus. This year, hundreds of samples were tested. If anyone has encephalitis, then that sample will be sent for testing for Nipah,'' the minister said. The system has always been on high alert, and a diagnosis protocol was ready. Many studies have been conducted in Kozhikode from 2018 onwards including bat surveillance, she said. ''We are on constant alert, constant vigil, that will continue, and integration of some departments, like we have developed a ''one health programme'' in Kerala based on our experiences on Nipah. Because this is an era of zoonotic diseases, we cannot stay away from the concept of ''one health'' and it is only the state of Kerala that has developed that concept,'' George said. Bangladesh Strain Of Nipah Virus Can Kill 9 Out Of 10: Top Epidemiologist ''One health'' is a programme launched by the state health department where all the concerned departments will get a platform for convergence in fighting against infectious diseases outbreak. The minister said for better convergence of departments in case of any infectious disease outbreak, the government is planning to set up a One Health Institute in Kozhikode. Asked about restrictions for anyone visiting Kerala or Kozhikode, she said there is no travel ban. ''See, we have a protocol; according to our guidelines, when a Nipah case is reported, the area within the five-kilometre radius is declared as a containment zone. There is movement restriction only in that particular area,'' George said. She said not even the whole of Kozhikode district is affected, but only few wards. Terming contact tracing as very challenging, George said many people do not admit that they were in contact with the positive patient initially. So when health workers called up, they were reluctant to admit the places they visited. ''For example, if a patient visits a hospital, it is easier for us to get the details of other patients and also the list of health workers. But some patients may have more than one bystander, and we may not know that,'' George said. She said these people later admitted their presence after a counselling session. To handle such cases, the Kerala government sought the help of the police department to confirm the location through mobile tower analysis. Schools, Colleges To Conduct Online Classes In Kozhikode Amid Nipah Virus The health minister said that in none of the previous outbreaks, the entire contact list could be traced. The total number of cases of Nipah infection confirmed in the state are six, of which two persons have died and four persons are being treated. The World Health Organisation and ICMR studies have found that the entire state, not just Kozhikode, is prone to such infections. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2023, 17:03 [IST] Nipah Virus: Schools, Colleges Reopen After A Week As No New Case Since Sep 16 In Kozhikode No Nipah Virus For 2nd Day, Kerala Govt Says 'Outbreak Under Control' India oi-PTI The Kerala government on Sunday said the Nipah outbreak in the state is under control as there were no new positive cases for the second consecutive day and that the already infected patients were getting better. State Health Minister Veena George said it was a big relief for the state that no new fresh positive cases of the virus have been detected. "The situation is under control presently," she said. The minister was speaking to reporters here in the evening after a review of the Nipah situation in this north Kerala district of the state. No Fresh Nipah Cases, 42 More Negative Results: Kerala Govt George said the four infected persons, including a nine-year-old boy, were getting better and the child has been taken off ventilator for the time being. Regarding the treatment using a monoclonal antibody, the only experimental therapeutic available to the government against the virus, the minister said the present variant was only 50-60 per cent effective and that the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has assured that it will get a new and more efficient version. She also said that samples from 36 bats have been taken and sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune to ascertain the presence of the virus among the mammals. George further said that since all the infected persons got the virus from the same person -- the index case -- who died on August 30, it was clear that there was no second wave and that it was welcome news. "It can also be proved through genomic sequencing which is being carried out," she said. So far, 1,233 contacts have been traced and of them 352 are in the high-risk category, she said. Earlier in the day, the minister said that as no new positive Nipah cases were being reported, the containment and quarantine measures would remain in place for 42 days from the last positive case reported. Bangladesh Strain Of Nipah Virus Can Kill 9 Out Of 10: Top Epidemiologist The incubation period of the virus is 21 days and therefore, "a double incubation period of 42 days from the last positive case" is considered as the period during which caution has to be exercised, George explained In the morning, she also said that a central team was surveying the area of the 2018 Nipah outbreak and will look for any ecological changes there, while teams from NIV Pune and ICMR are also carrying out field surveys in the district. State Tourism Minister PA Mohamed Riyas, who was also part of the press briefing, said that people were cooperating very well with the government's containment and quarantine efforts. George, in a statement, also said that the state was well equipped to carry out Nipah testing and can also confirm the presence of the virus through the tests. The mobile labs of Rajiv Gandhi Center for Biotechnology and NIV Pune have also helped to expedite testing and strengthen preventive measures, she said. Giving details of the testing process, the minister said the procedure is complicated due to the dangerous nature of the virus. At the same time, persons infected with Nipah do not show symptoms in the initial stages, which is a challenge as early testing is critical to increase the chances of survival and preventing the spread of the disease. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RTPCR) or PCR tests are used to detect the Nipah virus, she said. Meanwhile, the state government has launched a special out patient department (OPD) service in connection with Nipah under its e-Sanjeevini telemedicine system, Kozhikode District Collector A Geetha had said in a Facebook post. In her post, Geetha also advised people against frightening bats by throwing stones at them or making loud noises by bursting firecrackers, setting fire to their roots and cutting down trees they inhabit. Kerala Nipah Virus Scare: Schools, Colleges In Kozhikode To Remain Shut Till Sep 24 The Collector said that when bats infected with Nipah are harmed, frightened or moved from their habitat, the level of the virus in their body increases due to stress. As a result, the viruses will be expelled through body fluids and this will increase the risk of spread of the infection, she said. The total number of cases of Nipah infection confirmed in the state are six, of which two persons have died and four persons are being treated. The World Health Organisation and ICMR studies have found that the entire state, not just Kozhikode, is prone to such infections. Kharge Not Invited To President's G20 Dinner, Rahul Hits Out At Govt Congress May Nominate Kharge Or Rahul Gandhi As PM If INDIA Alliance Comes To Power: Tharoor Kharge Or Rahul Likely To Be PM Pick, Feels Shashi Tharoor Opposition Parties Unite To Chalk Out Strategy For Parliament's Special Session India oi-Madhuri Adnal Ahead of the five-day special session in Parliament, leaders from various opposition parties gathered on Monday for a strategy meeting in the office of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. During the meeting, opposition leaders engaged in discussions regarding their strategy for the upcoming session. Notable attendees included Congress MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, Manickam Tagore, Shashi Tharoor, Gaurav Gogoi, Manish Tewari, K.C. Venugopal, Syed Naseer Hussain, Jairam Ramesh, Samajwadi Party's Ram Gopal Yadav, Trinamool Congress' Derek O'Brien, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, RJD's Manoj Jha, and other prominent figures. Taking to social media platform X, Kharge shared, "INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance) parties eagerly anticipate discussions on issues that directly impact the people in this special parliamentary session. We sincerely hope that the government will honor the people's will and their numerous aspirations." Confident Congress Calls For Delay In Seat-Sharing Talks With INDIA Bloc Ahead Of Assembly Polls #WATCH | A meeting of Floor leaders of the INDIA alliance's parties is underway at LoP in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge's office in Parliament House to chalk out the strategy for the Floor of the House. (Source: AICC) pic.twitter.com/LkWL1VNzlp ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2023 "We are resolute in holding the government accountable to the citizens of India. India will win," expressed the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha. The five-day special session commenced on Monday and will continue until September 22. This gathering of opposition leaders is expected to play a crucial role in addressing significant matters during the session. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2023, 12:09 [IST] On the India-Canada row, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor says, "...We are now seeing a new phenomenon where immigrants to Canada have become Canadian citizens but are not doing anything Canadian politics. They're focusing on how to actually do damage to their country of origin. To my mind, that is a very dangerous development. And, Canada really has to examine its own approach to these people. It's all very well to claim outrage that a citizen has been killed in Canada. In any case, there is, as far as I'm aware, no evidence that any Indian government body had anything to do with it because we know that, unfortunately, this fringe terrorist group has a number of factions... So, my own view is that could have been any other explanation for what happened. In any case, whatever's happening, why their own citizens are allowed with impunity to behave in this manner, threatening the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and good, interests of a friendly country. There's something only the Canadians can answer." BJP Issues Show Cause Notice To Bidhuri For His Objectionable Remarks Against Danish Ali In LS PM Modi Speaks On African Union Merger, G20 Declaration, And Old Parliament Building In Lok Sabha India oi-Madhuri Adnal Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed the Lok Sabha, marking the commencement of the Special Session of Parliament. This five-day special session is slated to conclude on September 22. In a stirring address to the Lok Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attributed the success of India's G20 presidency to the collective efforts of the entire nation. He emphasized that the G20's achievements were not the result of the hard work of any individual or political party, but of the Indian people as a whole. He also spoke about the G20 summit in New Delhi as a watershed moment in India's history, and expressed confidence that the country would continue to rise on the global stage in the years to come. One of the most poignant moments in Modi's speech came when he spoke about the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent invitee to the G20. He described it as an emotional moment for him, as it was a recognition of Africa's growing importance in the world. Modi also spoke about the challenges that India faced in hosting the G20 summit. He mentioned that there were doubts about whether India would be able to successfully organise such a large and complex event. However, he said that the Indian people had overcome all odds and delivered a resounding success. During this unique parliamentary session, approximately eight bills are slated for consideration and passage. Additionally, the session will delve into Parliament's illustrious 75-year journey. Notably, the proceedings will take place within the confines of the new Parliament building, commencing from tomorrow. Earlier, Speaker Om Birla commends the highly successful culmination of the G20 Summit in 2023. He highlighted that India has prominently emerged as a global advocate for peace and prudence throughout the G20 Summit. Speaker Birla attributed the achievement of consensus on even the most delicate matters in the New Delhi Declaration, released by G20 leaders, to the visionary leadership and guidance provided by Prime Minister Modi. On Sunday, Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar ceremoniously hoisted the national flag at the new Parliament building, with the flag adorning the "Gaja Dwar" or the Elephant Gate of the new Parliament edifice. The announcement of this Special Session took political circles by surprise, as political parties brace themselves for upcoming assembly elections in five states later this year. Opposition parties have criticized the BJP-led central government for convening a special session of Parliament without disclosing the agenda. Parliament Special Session 2023 LIVE: PM Modi To Speak In LS Today At 11 AM The Congress party has vociferously called for the passage of the Women's Reservation Bill during this special parliamentary session. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh emphasized the historical context, saying, "Rajiv Gandhi first introduced Constitution Amendment Bills for one-third reservation in panchayats and nagarpalikas in May 1989. It passed in Lok Sabha but failed in Rajya Sabha in September 1989." Furthermore, he noted that Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao reintroduced Constitution Amendment Bills for one-third reservation for women in panchayats and nagarpalikas in April 1993, and both bills passed and became law. "As PM, Dr. Manmohan Singh brought a Constitution Amendment Bill for one-third reservation for women in Parliament and state legislatures. The bill passed on March 9, 2010, in Rajya Sabha. But it was not taken up in Lok Sabha," Ramesh explained. He underlined that bills introduced or passed in the Rajya Sabha do not expire, and thus, the Women's Reservation Bill remains in force. This bill, passed in the Rajya Sabha during the Manmohan Singh-led government, retains its validity as the Upper House of Parliament never dissolves. Parliament Special Session To Witness 'Historic Decisions', Says PM Modi India oi-Madhuri Adnal Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarked on Monday that the government's special session is brief in duration but carries immense significance in terms of timing and opportunities. The Prime Minister referred to the convening of both Houses as a "session of historic decisions" and emphasized that a pivotal aspect of this current session is that the 75-year journey is commencing from a fresh starting point. "...This parliamentary session may be short in duration, but considering its timing, it holds immense importance. It is a session marked by historic decisions. What makes this session unique is that the 75-year journey is commencing from an entirely new beginning...As we embark on this new phase of the journey...our aim is to transform the nation into a developed country by 2047. To achieve this goal, all the forthcoming decisions will be made within the new Parliament building...," stated the Prime Minister. "Success of Moon Mission --- Chandrayaan-3 has hoisted our Tiranga, Shiv Shakti Point has become a new centre of inspiration, Tiranga Point is filling us with pride. Across the world, when such an achievement is made, it is viewed by linking it to modernity, science and technology. When this capability comes before the world, several opportunities and possibilities knock at the doors of India," he said. Parliament Special Session: PM Modi To Address Lok Sabha At 11 AM On Day 1 My remarks at the start of Special Session of Parliament. https://t.co/z6ZGoxOqCW Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 18, 2023 Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address the Lok Sabha at 11 am today marking the commencement of the Special Session of Parliament. This five-day special session is slated to conclude on September 22. During this unique parliamentary session, approximately eight bills are slated for consideration and passage. Additionally, the session will delve into Parliament's illustrious 75-year journey. Notably, the proceedings will take place within the confines of the new Parliament building, commencing from tomorrow. UNESCO Recognizes Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas as a World Heritage Site The ancient Hoysala temples in Karnataka, famed for their architectural brilliance, have been officially recognized as a world heritage site by UNESCO. This news comes just after Santiniketan in West Bengal received similar recognition. India -Krishna Kripa India's rich cultural heritage has been recognized yet again by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The ancient Hoysala temples of Belur, Halebid, and Somnathapura in Karnataka have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Known as Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas, these architectural marvels are a testament to India's historical grandeur. Acknowledgement by UNESCO The announcement was made via a post on social media platform X on Monday. This came just a day after another Indian site, Santiniketan in West Bengal where Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore established Visva-Bharati over a century ago, also received this prestigious recognition. The decision was taken during the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee currently underway in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Reactions from Indian Leadership The inscription of these sites onto the list elicited responses from various corners of Indian leadership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media platform X to share his pride and congratulate all Indians for this achievement. He lauded the timeless beauty and intricate details of the Hoysala temples which he said were representative of India's rich cultural heritage and exceptional craftsmanship. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also hailed this declaration with great fervor. He emphasized that Santiniketan in West Bengal and Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas in Karnataka being recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites showcased them as living testaments to India's eternal culture. Sacred Ensembles: A Glimpse into History The ancient Hoysala temples are renowned worldwide for their architectural brilliance that reflects an era marked by profound artistic talent and spiritual devotion. Built between 11th-14th centuries during the rule of the Hoysala Empire, these temples are characterized by their detailed stone carvings and unique star-shaped architecture. They symbolize a period in Indian history when art and religion were intricately intertwined. These sites join an already impressive list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India, which includes architectural wonders such as the Taj Mahal, Qutub Minar, Hampi ruins among others. This recognition not only boosts tourism but also helps to preserve these historical monuments for future generations to appreciate. Conclusion The inscription of Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas on the UNESCO World Heritage List is indeed a proud moment for India. It underscores the importance that international bodies place on preserving and recognizing cultural heritage worldwide. As we celebrate this achievement today, it serves as a reminder that our past holds invaluable lessons and immense beauty that need to be cherished and preserved for posterity. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. The EU welcomes the simultaneous passage of humanitarian cargo via Lachin and Aghdam-Khankendi roads in Azerbaijan, the European Council's President Charles Michel wrote on X (Twitter), Trend reports. This must now be regularized, he added. According to Michel, it's also essential to launch talks between Azerbaijan's government and representatives of Armenian residents of Azerbaijan's Karabakh on their rights and security, which the EU stands ready to support. Meanwhile, the separatists in Karabakh finally submitted to Azerbaijan's conditions and agreed to the simultaneous opening of the Lachin road and the Aghdam-Khankendi road. Thus, the separatist leaders decided to accept the joint proposal of the office of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Khankendi and the command of the Russian peacekeepers [temporarily stationed in Azerbaijan under the trilateral statement signed by Azerbaijani, Armenian, and Russian leaders following the 2020 second Karabakh war] on simultaneous transportation of food by ICRC vehicles along the Lachin road and the Aghdam-Khankendi road. The agreement on the simultaneous opening of these routes was actually reached on September 1. The separatists delayed this process for more than two weeks. Trucks belonging to the ICRC, parallel to the Aghdam-Khankendi road, also passed through the Lachin border checkpoint. Gang Member Arrested for Allegedly Robbing Delhi Cop's Car: Gurugram Crime News A 24-year-old man affiliated with the notorious Sunder Bhati gang has been apprehended by police after allegedly stealing a car from a Delhi Police constable. The suspect, identified as Mahesh alias Mundi, reportedly committed the crime to aid in an act of revenge related to his brother's murder. India -Krishna Kripa On Monday, officials reported the arrest of a 24-year-old man linked to the Sunder Bhati gang. The individual, identified as Mahesh alias Mundi, is accused of robbing a Delhi Police constable's car at gunpoint. Mahesh was apprehended by the crime unit in Palam Vihar on Sunday night from Kasola Chowk and the stolen vehicle was seized during his arrest. However, his accomplice remains at large. The Incident According to reports, two unidentified armed men robbed a Delhi Police constable of his car on SPR Road while he was en route for G-20 security duty on September 9th. The victimized constable reported that these individuals threatened him with firearms before making off with his vehicle. Road Rage Horror: Woman, Two Sons Arrested for Brutal Attack on Delhi Head Constable The Motive Upon interrogation, Mahesh disclosed that he and his associate had planned to use the stolen car in an act of revenge killing related to an old familial feud dating back to 2014. He revealed that two individuals from his village in Shahbajpur were responsible for murdering his brother eight years ago. A Link To Bhati Gang In addition to this shocking revelation, police also uncovered another link between Mahesh and notorious criminal elements in the region. Manoj Bhati, a member of the infamous Bhati gang known for its various criminal activities across Gurugram and surrounding areas, was arrested from Mahesh's residence earlier this year. It appears that during this arrest operation conducted in 2022, officers inadvertently left behind one weapon which Mahesh intended to use for carrying out his vengeance plot. Past Criminal Record "The arrested accused has a previous criminal record," informed an official spokesperson from local law enforcement agencies. "Total six cases were already registered against him, including two..." The spokesperson did not elaborate on the nature of these charges but confirmed that Mahesh alias Mundi had a significant history with the criminal justice system. His past offenses and his association with notorious criminals like Bhati have raised serious concerns about the effectiveness of local law enforcement efforts to curb gang-related activities in the region. Family Members of Dead UK Girl Arrested in Pakistan, Brought to Britain for Investigation In conclusion, this incident highlights the persistent challenges faced by Indian law enforcement agencies in dealing with organized crime. The arrest of Mahesh serves as a stark reminder of how deeply rooted these criminal networks are within our communities. It also underscores the urgent need for more proactive measures and comprehensive strategies to dismantle such dangerous alliances and ensure public safety. As we await further developments in this case, it is crucial to remember that every successful arrest brings us one step closer to restoring law and order in our society. Tejasvi Surya Says People Will Respond Sharply to Opposition's Posture Against Sanatan Dharma MP Elections: Congress Banks On Muslim Votes In At Least 22 Seats Shivraj Singh Chouhan Begins Poll Campaign from Budhni, Urges People to Consider Themselves as Shivraj Two Male Cheetahs Shifted To Soft Release Enclosure In Kuno National Park India oi-PTI Two male cheetahs were on Sunday shifted to a soft release enclosure at Kuno National Park (KNP) in Madhya Pradesh's Sheopur district, officials said. Notably, India's cheetah reintroduction project completed one year on Sunday. The two male cheetahs, namely Gaurav and Shourya, have been staying in the quarantine boma (enclosure) since July 19 this year. Missing Cheetah From MP's Sheopur District Found After 22 Days Both the cheetahs were shifted to a ''soft release boma'' after the completion of their health examination as per the protocol, officials said. ''Gaurav and Shourya were shifted to the soft-release enclosure under the guidance of the expert team,'' they said. Under the Cheetah Reintroduction Project, eight Namibian cheetahs -- five female and three male -- were released into enclosures at KNP on September 17 last year by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Later in February this year, 12 more cheetahs arrived at KNP from South Africa. After the cheetahs were reintroduced to Indian soil, four cubs were born to the Namibian cheetah 'Jwala' in March, but three of them died in May. One More Cheetah Dies At Kuno National Park; 9th In 11 Months A total of six adult cheetahs have died since March due to various reasons, taking the overall toll to nine, while 14 cheetahs and one cub are in healthy condition in their enclosures. Cheetahs were reintroduced in India 70 years after the extinction of the species in the wild in the country. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2023, 9:22 [IST] Lok Sabha Clears Women's Reservation Bill, Rajya Sabha To Take Up Today: 10 Things to Know Union Cabinet Passes Women's Reservation Bill India oi-Sushmita Halder The Women's Reservation Bill was passed on Monday during the cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the special session of Parliament that took place in the old building of the Parliament. Sources were quoted saying to India Today that the Union Cabinet passed the 'Women's Reservation Bill' with 33 per cent quota for women in Lok Sabha and state assemblies during the Cabinet meeting chaired by PM Modi. However, an official announcement in connection with the bill is yet to come as the government could not address the press briefing after the Cabinet meeting. The Union Cabinet meeting was called at 6:30 pm, after the first sitting of the special Parliament session. Several political leaders demanded for the bill to get passed that guarantees a 33 per cent quota for women in Lok Sabha and state assemblies. What is Women's Reservation Bill The Women's Reservation Bill seeks to reserve 33 percent of seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies for women. As per the bill, one-third of the total number of seats reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes will be reserved for women from those groups. The reserved seats may be allotted to different constituencies in the state or union territory. The bill says that the reservation of seats for women shall cease to exist 15 years after the commencement of the amendment act. Earlier, the bill was known as the Constitution Bill (One Hundred and Eighth Amendment), 2008. The bill that was first introduced during Manmohan Singh-government was passed by the Rajya Sabha in 2010. However, it was not introduced in the Lok Sabha. Although there has been no official announcement about the bill, Union Minister Prahlad Singh Patel congratulated PM Modi for approving the bill on platform X, formerly Twitter. "Only the Modi government had the moral courage to fulfil the demand for women's reservation. Which was proved by the approval of the cabinet. Congratulations PM Narendra Modi and congratulations to the PM Modi government." "Only the Modi government had the moral courage to fulfil the demand for women's reservation. Which was proved by the approval of the cabinet. Congratulations PM Narendra Modi and congratulations to the PM Modi government," tweets Union Minister Prahlad Singh Patel https://t.co/P1Ivxtil8H pic.twitter.com/tUrn2hy2ZQ ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2023 The cabinet meeting was chaired by PM Modi, and was attended by Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, Piyush Goyal, Pralhad Joshi, S Jaishankar, Nirmala Sitharaman, Dharmendra Pradhan, Nitin Gadkari and Arjun Ram Meghwal, among others. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2023, 23:28 [IST] Congress May Nominate Kharge Or Rahul Gandhi As PM If INDIA Alliance Comes To Power: Tharoor Watch: Kharge's Witty Remark on G20 Summit Evokes Laughter India oi-Prakash KL Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday took a potshot at the BJP over the G20 Summit held in Delhi, last week. Kharge made a witty comment, joking that the '0' in G20 seemed to have been replaced by the lotus symbol, the election symbol of the BJP. This lighthearted remark sparked laughter among the parliamentarians. Nonetheless, Speaker of the House Jagdeep Dhankhar called Kharge's demeanour as 'agitated' and 'angry'. In support of the G20, BJP leader Piyush Goyal intervened, but Kharge promptly stressed the importance of unity for the nation's progress. The clip of the humourous jab has now gone viral. The five-day Special Session of Parliament was kicked off on Monday at the old Parliament building. 'He Will Hoist The Flag At Home': Mallikarjun Kharge Reacts To PM's Red Fort Comment Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the lower House and said that this Parliament session may be short in duration but is big on occasion, and is of "historic decisions" The Prime Minister on Monday paid tributes to "every brick" of the old Parliament building and said the MPs will enter the new building with "new hope and confidence". In his over an hour-long speech in Lok Sabha, PM Modi remembered the journey of India's democracy and said the last day in this heritage building should be dedicated to the over 7,500 parliamentarians who served in this building since Independence. Parliament will shift to the new building on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi on Tuesday. US: At Least 22 Dead In Maine Shooting, Dozens Injured As Gunman Goes On Rampage Massive Manhunt Unfolds In Maine, U.S.; Who Is Robert Card And What Else Is Going On Iran Frees 5 US Citizens Over Oil Deal International oi-Sushmita Halder President of the United States Of America Joe Biden celebrated the release of five Americans who were wrongly imprisoned in Iran for several years. The five American who were detained wrongfully were finally freed as part of a wider deal that includes the US unfreezing $6 billion in Iranian funds. They are being flown on a Qatari government jet to Doha. Two relatives of the detainees were also on board, along with the Qatari ambassador to Tehran. A statement by the US President read, "Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home. I am grateful to our partners at home and abroad for their tireless efforts to help us achieve this outcome, including the Governments of Qatar, Oman, Switzerland, and South Korea." The release of the Americans brought an end to the years-long nightmare. The detained US citizens were identified as Emad Shargi, Morad Tahbaz, and Siamak Namazi. Namazi had been detained since 2015. However, the identity of the other two Americans have not been publicly known. According to a senior official of the Biden administration, Siamak Namazi's mother Effie Namazi and Morad Tahbaz's wife Vida Tahbaz who were unable to leave Iran have also flown to Doha from Iran. Meanwhile, a senior Biden administration official said, "The deal to free the Americans from Iranian detention "has not changed our relationship with Iran in any way." As per the deal, $6 billion in Iranian funds that had been held in restricted accounts in South Korea was transferred to restricted accounts in banks in Qatar. Reportedly, the funds came from oil sales that were allowed and placed into accounts set up under the Trump administration. Biden administration officials said the funds transferred to the accounts in Qatar will only be able to be used by Iran for humanitarian purchases and it would be closely monitored by the US Treasury Department. Namazi is a dual Iranian-US citizen. His father, Baquer Namazi, was released in order to receive medical treatment in October 2022 after more than six years in detention in Iran. Shargi, a businessman, and Tahbaz, an environmentalist, were first arrested in 2018. They too are dual Iranian-US citizens. Earlier in March, Namazi made an emotional plea to Biden to put the "liberty of innocent Americans above politics" and ramp up efforts to secure his release. Namazi's family, as well as the Shargi and Tahbaz families, had made urgent calls for the Biden administration to intensify efforts to bring their loved ones home. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2023, 22:12 [IST] What Caused The landslide In Irshalwadi In Maharashtra? Bring Them To Us, Will Accept Them Dead Or Alive: Family That Lost 3 Generations In Shimla Landslide Landslide In Congo Kills At Least 17 People After Torrential Rain International oi-PTI Torrential rain in northwestern Congo caused a landslide that killed at least 17 people overnight, authorities said Sunday, warning the toll could rise as rescuers sift through rubble beneath collapsed homes. The disaster took place along the Congo River in the town of Lisal in northwestern Mongala province, according to Matthieu Mole, president of the civil society organization Forces Vives. The victims lived in homes that were built at the foot of a mountain. ''A torrential downpour caused a lot of damage, including a landslide that swallowed up several houses,'' he said. ''The toll is still provisional as bodies are still under the rubble.'' IS group says it killed more than 35 'Christians' in Congo Governor Cesar Limbaya Mbangisa said machinery was desperately needed to help clear away the debris and try to save any survivors. The governor also offered his condolences to the victims' families and decreed three days of morning throughout the province. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2023, 9:04 [IST] Kerala: Social Activist Gireesh Babu Found Dead At Home Kochi oi-PTI Social activist Gireesh Babu, who has fought several high profile corruption cases in courts against political leaders and top bureaucrats, was on Monday found dead at his residence in Kalamassery here, police said. The cause of death can only be determined after the inquest proceedings and the autopsy are completed, they said. Babu had recently moved a vigilance court seeking a probe into the financial transactions of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's daughter and her firm with a private company -- Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd. The court had denied the plea and against that he had moved the Kerala High Court where the matter was scheduled to be heard during the day. Advocate B A Aloor, who was representing Babu in the matter, said that the hearing in the case was adjourned for two weeks after the High Court was informed about the activist's death due to a heart attack. No Nipah Virus For 2nd Day, Kerala Govt Says 'Outbreak Under Control' Babu was the one who had moved a plea alleging corruption in the construction of a bridge at Palarivattom here. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, September 18, 2023, 12:37 [IST] According to media reports, Israel complained about the presence of German Ambassador Steffen Seibert at a meeting in Israel's Supreme Court. However, the German Foreign Ministry denies it received the complaint. Members of a Libyan family also died in the crash and several other people were seriously injured. ViewIn 2015, the U.N. adopted 17 goals for the year 2030 that will help push the wold to end poverty, improve education, combat.. Newsy 19 Sep 2023 BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. The agreement on the opening of the Aghdam-Khankendi road is another victory for Azerbaijan, Aydin Mirzazade, a deputy of Azerbaijan's Milli Majlis (Parliament), told Trend. "Armenia and its patrons tried in every possible way to prevent it, but their attempts, as always, failed. Azerbaijan, which has a principled and resolute position, did not retreat from it, despite all the pressure and provocations, and achieved its goal," he said. He also noted that the opening of the Aghdam-Khankendi road is another stage in the realization of Azerbaijan's sovereign rights. "Azerbaijan liberated its lands from occupation during the 44-day war. During a certain period of time, Azerbaijan created conditions for traffic on the Lachin road without any control, but it turned out that Armenia abused it. Armenian military equipment was transferred to Azerbaijani territories where Russian peacekeepers were temporarily deployed, which was then actively used against Azerbaijan. To prevent this, Azerbaijan was forced to establish a border checkpoint on the Lachin road. At the same time, Azerbaijan demanded that the cargo be transported not only on the Lachin road but also on the Aghdam-Khankendi road," the MP added. We present this interview in video format. Oneindia 18 Sep 2023 On Monday, China's top diplomat, Wang Yi began a four-day trip to Russia. As per reports, during the trip both nations are expected.. Thiruvananthapuram: Illegal online lending apps have duped Keralites of around Rs 100 crore till now. According to the cyber crime investigation team of Kerala police, details collected from the complaints it received in the past few years revealed that over Rs 100 crore has been swindled from Kerala through loan apps. Sleuths have also found that a recruitment agency that hires Malayalis for typist's job in Cambodia plays a crucial role in the scam. The agency recruits Malayalis free of cost, takes them to Cambodia and gives them different tasks connected to loan apps. The agency lures people through social media and offers them remuneration ranging from Rs 70,000 to Rs 1 lakh per month. An investigation focusing on the mobile number displayed in the advertisement is underway. According to sources in the probe team, some youths, who managed to escape from Cambodia, alleged that several people were recruited from Kerala for similar work. Complaints have also been received by the team against loan rackets being operated from Chennai and northern parts of India. Trading apps According to sources, Kerala is losing huge money everyday through Chinese trading apps that allow people to buy and resell items immediately. Two weeks ago, a housewife in Kochi lost Rs 1 crore after she followed up on a message stating that she had won a lottery. In another instance, perpetrators hacked the web site of the Income Tax department of Karnataka and emptied crores of rupees from the bank accounts of people who were due to receive income tax refunds. This shady operation was also staged from China. Threats over loans never taken The online loan mafia even threatened a housewife from Palakkad's Kollenkode, telling her to repay a loan that she did not take. When she refused to pay the amount, the racketeers circulated her morphed obscene pictures among people in her phone contact list, including her daughter. The housewife said although she had inquired about the online loans during the COVID crisis, she had not borrowed any loan from them. She had furnished personal details, including that of Aadhaar, to the contact number that was found online. When the operators demanded a phone number with net connectivity, her daughters number was given. Soon, she started getting calls demanding a repayment of Rs 13,800. Morphed pictures started appearing on her daughters phone from August 27. The harassment stopped after a complaint was filed with the Palakkad cyber police. Interpols help sought The Kerala police will seek the help of Interpol to probe the cyber racket, including loan app frauds. The international crime investigation agency's help will first be sought in a case where a person lost Rs 1 crore in Kochi through investment in crypto currencies. Kerala police's cyber operations wing had found that the money had gone into 10 Chinese banks. The 10 Chinese nationals who carried out the fraud were also identified. It has also been found that huge money is being siphoned off to China through loan apps everyday. The perpetrators upload the loan apps on Google Play Store and recruit Indians to make phone calls. A bank account is also opened in India to facilitate the transactions. As soon as the money reaches this account, it is converted into crypto currency and transferred to China. The person who spoke in Hindi to the victims of the loan racket in Kochi was a Chinese national. The operators of the apps decide the quantum of loan to be given after assessing the number of contacts on the victims phone and friends on Facebook. In fact, the cyber challenges posed by China was one of the main topics of discussion at the cyber crime conference convened in New Delhi last week. Kochi: A raid by the Kuwait Human Resources Committee officials on a private clinic at Maliya in Kuwait City has landed 19 Keralite nurses among 30 Indians in jail last week. According to relatives of the Malayali nurses, 60 people, including the Indians, were caught during the raid on charges of violation of the foreign residency laws in Kuwait. According to the Kuwait Home Ministry, the nurses did not have relevant licences or required qualifications to work in Kuwait. However, the family members of the Keralite nurses claimed that they were qualified and had been working there with proper work visas and sponsorships. Several of them have been working there for the past three to 10 years in the same clinic. People from Philippines, Egypt and Iran have also been caught by the authorities on similar charges. The hospital is owned by an Iranian national and according to the relatives of the nurses, a dispute between the owner and the sponsor had led to the raid and arrest. Among the arrested Malayali nurses are five feeding mothers. Jessin is one among them, who has a one-month-old infant daughter, Jeffiamol, at home. Even though the jail authorities have allowed Jessin to breastfeed her daughter at a specified time, it has become a huge problem for the family now. The nurse's husband Bijoy, a native of Adoor in Kerala, has been taking the baby to the jail for the past six days. According to the family members, Jessin was arrested on the very day she rejoined duty after her maternity leave. Bijoy and Jessin live in a flat at Jollibee with their two daughters. Kin of the arrested Malayali nurses have sought the intervention of the Union Government and the Indian Embassy for the early release of the nurses. Quicklink Not Found Sometimes, authors delete their quicklinks after publishing them. To see if the quicklink was renamed or re-published, please click here. Romney calls out Trump and Biden to 'stand aside' for younger candidates Sen. Mitt Romney (R-UT) spoke with reporters after his announcement that he will not be seeking reelection. #CNN #News. (Image by YouTube, Channel: CNN) Details DMCA By Bob Gaydos * * * "I grow old ... I grow old ... I shall wear the bottoms of my trousers rolled. Shall I part my hair behind? Do I dare to eat a peach? I shall wear white flannel trousers, and * Forever hate the word ''impeach''? *** With profound apologies to T.S. Eliot and his poem, "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock," the topic here is politicians and age. Or is it? If you believe Mitt Romney it is. Looking and sounding fit and capable and considerably younger than his 76 years, the senator from Utah recently announced he would not seek re-election to the Senate next year. In doing so, he also criticized President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump, both older than Romney, and called for them to "stand aside" for a "new generation of leaders" in Washington. Romney, also a former governor of Massachusetts and the defeated Republican candidate for president in 2012, said neither Democrat Biden, 80, nor Republican Trump, 77, is effectively leading his party in addressing the important issues of the day, which is a typically safe and even-handed Romney-style comment. A pox on both their houses. To be fair, Romney was the only Republican senator with the courage to vote guilty on Trump's two impeachments and he did have some frank, unflattering words to say specifically about his party. "There's no question that the Republican Party today is in the shadow of Donald Trump," he said, adding that the MAGA wing that has commandeered the party is less concerned with governing and more enamored with "resentment and settling scores and revisiting the 2020 election." Those are unusually harsh and honest and rare words for an elected Republican official to state publicly about his party today. Next Page 1 | 2 | 3 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). Changing the bankruptcy provision in a decades-old law to allow students to declare bankruptcy on their student loans will provide the relief debtors are desperately searching for Article originally published in the Massachusetts Daily Collegian By Robert Weiner and Charlyn Chu The federal student loan debt balance carried by Massachusetts residents amounts to nearly $31 billion. Almost a million people in Massachusetts--902,000 of the state's total seven million residents--are burdened with student loan obligations. A report on student debt for the University of Massachusetts system class of 2020 found that 69 percent of students graduated with student loan debt, with an average of $32,310 across the four universities. UMass Amherst graduates had an average debt of $32,928 in both federal and private student loans. One year ago, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Majority Whip and Chair of the Judiciary Committee Dick Durbin pledged to journalist Blake Zeff in MSNBC documentary Loan Wolves that they'd move a student loan bill through Congress, or at least the Senate, where they have power for now. They promised to spearhead a solution, not by income-contingent repayment or by re-evaluating undue hardship claims, but to reform the bankruptcy code's treatment of student loans itself. They have yet to deliver. In the documentary, Zeff makes Schumer aware of Durbin's work on the issue, to which Schumer responds, "It's something I would obviously look at." Not long after their conversation, Schumer says in a press conference, "It's outrageous that other people get to declare bankruptcy, but students can't." Durbin's bill S.2598, the FRESH START Through Bankruptcy Act, would make federal student loan debt "dischargeable in a bankruptcy proceeding 10 years after the first loan payment is due." At the end of Loan Wolves, Durbin promises Zeff that "We're going to try everything legitimately possible to move the bill through the Senate this year." Yet, it's an empty promise. Introduced August 4, 2021, the bill was read twice and referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Nothing has happened since. There is no excuse for a lack of action, especially when Zeff has told Durbin the bill is on Schumer's radar. "We have to beg Schumer to give us a niche, a piece of the calendar so that we can call the bill... his personal commitment is essential," Durbin said in the documentary. "[Schumer] is convinced... he pledged to me that he will bring it to a committee this session," Zeff assured Durbin in response. With Schumer and Durbin on the same page, they must not go back on their word to reform the bankruptcy code's treatment of student loans. The two have pressed the Department of Education in the past on changing administrative policies around undue hardship to make it easier to discharge student loans through bankruptcy. In November 2022, the Biden administration responded by making the process fairer with clearer legal standards around undue hardship. Despite this, most who file claims through a bankruptcy provision have been largely unsuccessful. Schumer and Durbin know that fixing federal policy is just the tip of the iceberg. Without the threat of bankruptcy, college lenders can lend out extreme sums of money because of guaranteed repayment and colleges can continue hiking tuition costs. Therefore, the root of skyrocketing college costs lies in the bankruptcy code. In 1988, a virtually unknown bureaucrat slipped two lines into the Higher Education Amendments, altering Section 523(a)(8) of Title 11. These two lines make it nearly impossible for student loans to be dischargeable through bankruptcy by eliminating the seven-year discharge provision, leaving the loosely defined "undue hardship" clause as the only way to discharge student loans through bankruptcy, a case-by-case standard that is extremely difficult to prove despite Biden's improvements. In the documentary, Zeff uncovers the culprit behind these two lines: David Longanecker, former assistant secretary of post-secondary education at the U.S. Department of Education. Zeff confronts Longanecker, who admitted putting the language into the higher-education bill and still holds his view that "when people accept an obligation, they have a responsibility to attend to that," and if students did default, they "simply weren't acting in good faith." Apparently, bad planning by any business in the United States is entitled to bankruptcy protection, though. As most student borrowers are 16- to 17-year-olds at the time they signed for a loan with fees hidden in fine print, why must they be the exception? Why is it that gambling debts and excessive shopping debts are easier to discharge in comparison? Why can Donald Trump abuse bankruptcy laws by filing for corporate bankruptcy six times to wipe away his debts, but students carry theirs to the grave? Next Page 1 | 2 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). Seguin, Texas - 03/15/2023: Polmedia Polish Pottery wants to educate its customers and the general public about the growing problem of fake Polish pottery and how to avoid it. With the increasing popularity of this unique and beautiful pottery, it's important for consumers to know how to distinguish genuine Polish pottery from imitations. Fake Polish pottery is often mass-produced in China and sold at lower prices. However, these pieces lack the The labor unrest that has hit Portland-area hospitals this year has spread to Oregon Health & Science University. OHSU nurses voted by a wide margin to authorize a strike, officials with the Oregon Nurses Association announced Monday. At a rally Monday morning, officials said 96% of eligible nurses voted and 95% of them voted in favor of authorizing a strike. The city of Portland is seeking friend of the court status in support of Oregons voter-approved gun control Measure 114, which is at the center of a trial starting Monday in Harney County Circuit Court. Portland can provide important insight on the serious public-health and public safety implications, resulting from the legal challenge to the measure, deputy city attorney Victor Mercado Negro wrote to the court last week. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Azerbaijan is facing constant provocations from the Armenian side, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said at a briefing for the diplomatic corps accredited in Azerbaijan, Trend reports. The so-called "presidential election" in the Karabakh region is a clear example of these provocations. Despite all the messages of Azerbaijan, the Armenian side has not stopped, said the ministry. Turkiye, Pakistan, Ukraine, the UK, Georgia, Moldova, Romania, Hungary, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Germany, the United States, and Iran, as well as international organizations such as the UN, the Organization of Turkic States, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the EU condemned this illegal "election". "Taking this opportunity, we express our gratitude to all countries and international organizations that support international law and openly oppose this illegal, illegitimate and provocative step of the Armenian side," said the ministry. A 25-year-old Portland woman died after crashing into a light pole in Vancouver. Washington State Patrol responded to the crash just before 5 a.m. Sunday and found Eden Ewings dead at the scene, according to a press release from the agency. Ewings was traveling west on State Route 14 when she drifted onto the right shoulder near milepost 14, officials said. She struck a light pole, rolling the car and blocking both westbound lanes near the Vancouver Heights neighborhood, according to the state patrol. Investigators are still determining the cause of the 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 JaCivas, a 37-year-old Portland bakery for its Swiss chocolates and elaborate wedding cakes, will close once supplies run out later this year, according to a post on its Facebook page Friday. It is with a heavy heart that we are announcing JaCivas Bakery will be closing its doors, the post reads. At this point we are continuing business as supplies last. The bakery will operate on a walk-in or same-day-order basis going forward, selling tortes, chocolates and other baked goods until none more can be made. What a pleasure its been serving our Portland community for 37 years, the post reads. We will miss being a part of your celebrations. Jack and Iva Elmer, a couple who met, married and combined their families (he had two children from a previous marriage, she had four) after meeting at Heidis Swiss Village in Troutdale, opened JaCivas bakery on Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard in 1986, according to a 2013 story in The Oregonian. By that point, Jack Elmer, who grew up on a dairy farm in rural Troutdale and learned to bake at his mothers side, had already attended graduate school for pastry in Minnesota and earned the title of konditor, or master pastry chef, at a finishing school in Switzerland. He previously owned Elmers Old Fashioned Bakery in Gresham and ran the Old Bohemian Bakery in downtown Portland. (His uncle was Walt Elmer, co-founder of the Elmers restaurant chain.) Elmers stepdaughter, Laura Boscole, who took over managing JaCivas shortly before his 2014 death, told local news media that JaCivas hasnt seen its once-robust wedding business bounce fully back in the years since the COVID-19 pandemic. Its a struggle in this economic environment, Boscole told KOIN News on Friday. Theres a lot of changes that Portland has gone through and its been very difficult for small businesses. Crime and vandalism play a part in that and this wasnt a decision that came lightly and its heartbreaking. JaCivas hopes to stay open through October at 4733 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd., 503-234-8115, jacivas.com Michael Russell; mrussell@oregonian.com Our journalism needs your support. Please become a subscriber today at OregonLive.com/subscribe Conservation groups in Oregon are suing the Federal Emergency Management Agency over its flood-insurance program, which they say puts fish, orcas and people at risk. The lawsuit, filed late last week, claims that FEMA encourages floodplain development in Oregons high-hazard areas by allowing property owners to buy affordable insurance to protect their homes from flood damage in those areas. The construction in flood plains, in turn, harms natural floodplain functions and destroys the habitat of threatened and endangered species, including 15 salmon species and salmon-dependent orcas, the suit says. The lawsuit comes 14 years after conservation groups in Oregon first filed a legal action seeking to reform the federal flood-insurance program. FEMA and the plaintiffs, some of the same ones bringing the new lawsuit, settled the first one. As part of that settlement, the federal agency agreed to consult with NOAA Fisheries, also known as the National Marine Fisheries Service, to determine how FEMAs program was harming fish. In 2016, NOAA Fisheries announced that FEMAs flood-insurance program was jeopardizing the continued existence of salmon and other species that depend on salmon for food. It said FEMA must update standards to reduce the impact of floodplain development on the impacted species. NOAA Fisheries told FEMA to create floodplain maps that more accurately identify where flood risks are and where theyre expected in the future, limit the types of development allowed in both floodways and channel migration zones, track floodplain development and tighten requirements for mitigation measures when development does occur in floodplains. Many cities and counties in Oregon are vehemently opposed to any new rules from FEMA because they dont want to make development in floodplains significantly more difficult and costly. Portland is the only city thus far that has worked to tighten its floodplain development requirements, even before FEMA updates its rules but environmental groups have said Portlands proposal is stocked with loopholes, exemptions and delays. Conservation groups say FEMA has dragged its feet for years on the NOAA Fisheries recommendations. The agency received a three-year extension from Congress on implementing them, but is still far from achieving the requested reforms to the flood insurance program, said Bob Sallinger, urban conservation director for the nonprofit Willamette Riverkeeper, one of the groups that filed the lawsuit. FEMA published an implementation plan two years ago and plans to conduct an environmental review this year, with new rules to be rolled out in 2025. Communities will have to fully implement the rules by 2027. The agency declined to comment on the lawsuit. Sallinger said the implementation plan does not meet NOAA Fisheries recommendations. FEMA, he said, is years away from fulfilling its obligations. Gosia Wozniacka; gwozniacka@oregonian.com; @gosiawozniacka Our journalism needs your support. Please become a subscriber today at OregonLive.com/subscribe/ 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. This week, a Broke & Bothered reader asked Reckon, Whats the Biden student loan SAVE plan? We gave them the run down and now were giving it to you too because sharing the wealth and knowledge is even more crucial as we inch closer to October. The Biden Student Loan SAVE (Saving on a Valuable Education) plan is an income-driven payment plan that will offer the lowest monthly student loan payments based on the borrowers income and family size. 5 fast facts about the SAVE plan: Borrowers currently on the Revised Pay As You Earn Plan (REPAYE), an income-driven payment working to cap payments at 10% of the discretionary income and forgive the rest of your student loans after 20 or 25 years of repayment, will be put on the SAVE Plan automatically. In October, the SAVE plan will replace REPAYE. Loan payments for some borrowers could come to $0 per month with the SAVE plan especially if a borrowers monthly payment amount is based on their discretionary income. The Department of Education estimates that more than 1 million additional low-income borrowers will qualify for a $0 payment. The SAVE plan will reduce payments for borrowers with undergraduate and graduate loans. These borrowers will be paying a weighted average between 5% and 10% of their income based on the original principal balances of their loans. More than 4 million Americans have enrolled in SAVE so far, while the borrowers will be able to apply on an ongoing basis, the Department of Education is encouraging people to apply sooner rather than later if they want to be enrolled by the time they are required to make a payment on their student loans in October. The SAVE plan might not be the right choice for every borrower, so use the online loan simulator tool at StudentAid.gov to review all payment options. Learn more about the SAVE plan here. I Aint Got It I ain't got it. For a lot of people, resuming student loan debt payments will mean their lives are turned upside down and inside out. Understanding the weight of this debt, Reckon asks readers like you who are worried about their finances, future, family and more to tell us what debt relief would mean for them. Each week, well share a story that provides a glimpse into a borrowers life. Name: Sara Lynn Bandt Student loan debt: $59,000 Location: Minnesota Age: 35 If debt payments resume: By resuming student loan payments, I wont be able to start saving for a home. A dream I have always had. I just cant afford it. Student loan forgiveness isnt enough. Other countries offer free college, why cant the supposed best country in the world do the same. I dont just think that student loans should not just be forgiven, but college should be free as it is. I plead, please forgive mine and everyones student loan debt, and go a step further and make tuition free for our future children. Give hope to families who dream of their children having a better life, than they could have dreamed for them. Do you have a student loan debt story you want to share with Reckon? Your story is just as important as Sara Lynns and you can share it with us too. Send Alexis an email at awray@reckonmedia.com or take a few minutes to fill out this Google form. A movement for your money If youve made it this far into a newsletter called Broke & Bothered, it wont be an absolute shock when I tell you Millennials and Gen Zers are the poorest generations in U.S. history. By comparison, we have more debt, the lowest wages, very little, if any, savings WHILE ALSO paying the highest childcare and rent in history and entering the workforce during the worst economic crises since the Great Depression. But I dont need to tell you all that. Youre likely already experiencing at least one stressor of the above. So, HOW in the broke and bothered are we supposed to feel like we have any control over our financial wellbeing? Were turning to some of our favorite TikTok and Instagram accounts for tips and tricks. Tori Dunlap (@herfirst100k) . A great go-to if you feel like youve got budgeting down but want to know how to build your wealth through investments, high-yield savings accounts, 401(k)s and all those other things that may sound like a foreign language. Simone (@simonesdays) . Looking for financial tips alongside your GRWM TikToks? Sometimes its easier to think about your money on a smaller scale, day by day, not big picture. Naomi Nyarko (@naomiimedrano) . Get a better understanding of how to budget your paycheck every week, learn about starting your own business and how to share your finances with a partner. Vivian Tu (@your.richbff) . Mix your money managing, travel and career tips with deep dives on what Wall Street is like and how much Bama rush costs. Baddies and Budgets (@baddiesandbudgets) . If you work a lot with cash or find it the easiest way to manage your money, the envelope method of budgeting may be your way to go. Borrowers are worried about the future of affording and paying back their student loans. Are you one of them? Share your story and thoughts here with Reckon. Corvallis startup Agility Robotics plans to open a large factory in Salem later this year with the capacity to build more than 10,000 robots annually. People and robots will work together in the 70,000-square-foot facility, constructing a robot designed to carry bulky materials in warehouses. Agility said the Salem factory, which it calls RoboFab, could eventually employ 500 people. It said initial employment will depend on how many workers want to relocate there from other sites. The Salem factory will be welcome news to Oregons manufacturing sector, which has slumped over the past year and shed about 4,100 jobs. Unemployment remains at 3.4%, though, a historic low. Agility used technology developed at Oregon State University to build a robot called Digit that walks on two legs, climbs stars and can carry and stack large objects. Agility divides its headquarters between its Corvallis labs and Pittsburgh, where CEO Damion Shelton lives. Agility employs 250 across the company, about half in Oregon. It has a staff of about 40 in Pittsburgh working in customer operations and other departments. The company declined to say much the new factory will cost. Agility said it is exploring public incentives to help fund the Salem project. Agility has raised more than $180 million in private funding since its founding in 2015, most recently a $150 million investment last year. Its backers include investment firms and Amazon, which is seeking technologies to improve its own operations. We built Digit to solve difficult problems in todays workforce like injuries, burnout, high turnover and unfillable labor gaps, with the ultimate vision of enabling humans to be more human, Shelton said in a written statement. Agility said its robot will move, load and unload totes in the Salem factory. The company plans to build hundreds of Digit robots in Salem in the factorys first year as it begins delivering its first robot to partners who worked with Agility in developing the technology. Agility says Digit will be generally available to commercial customers in 2025. It hasnt announced pricing. This article has been updated with additional information about Agilitys Oregon operations and Digit. -- Mike Rogoway | mrogoway@oregonian.com | 503-294-7699 Our journalism needs your support. Please become a subscriber today at OregonLive.com/subscribe Are you ready for a typical early fall week in Portland? Monday kicks off string of average days that include normal temperatures, a chance of rain one day, and a mix of clouds and sun all in time for the first day of autumn on Sept. 22. The National Weather Service says cloud cover left over from a front that passed over the metro area very early Monday morning will continue through the lunch hour before the sun breaks out during the afternoon. Skies should eventually clear to partly sunny. The high will be near 71 degrees in the metro area. The coast is likely to see temps reach into the 60s, and light rain is possible along the northern beaches. The beaches are also under a sneaker wave warning. Dangerous sneaker waves are possible from 8 a.m. Monday through Tuesday afternoon. Beachgoers are warned that waves may run up significantly farther up the shore than normal and can knock people and pets into the ocean. Keep off jetties, rocks and logs near the surf zone. NWS Portland Portland should see fewer clouds and more sun Tuesday with a high of about 71 degrees. Clouds are expected to increase later in the day as a stronger frontal system moves into the region overnight. This will likely bring Portlands best shot at some rain during the week. The system moving south along the British Columbia coastline will offer better chances of showers especially to the mid Willamette Valley. Portland could see showers overnight Tuesday that linger into Wednesday morning. Skies are likely to clear by late morning Wednesday for a partly sunny day. The high will be near 68 degrees. Extended forecasts are showing drying and warming into the later part of the week. No rain is expected, and high temps should reach back into the low 80s by Friday. Portland set a new record for most days in the year with temps of 80 degrees or higher at 91 on Saturday when the city hit 84 degrees. The old record of 90 days was set in 2021. Portland will have a chance to extend that record later this week. Geneva, Switzerland (PANA) - Nearly one year since the signing of an agreement to cease hostilities in Ethiopia, atrocities, war crimes and crimes against humanity are still being committed in the country and peace remains elusive, the International Commission of Human Rights Experts on Ethiopia warned in its latest report released on Monday BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. The constant protests of the Armenian side over the opening of the Lachin and Aghdam roads are political and are not related to the "humanitarian crisis", the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said at a briefing for the diplomatic corps accredited in the Republic of Azerbaijan, Trend reports. "In this regard, the recent hearings in the US Senate were organized in order to please the Armenian lobby. Unfortunately, the representative of the State Department joined the anti-Azerbaijani statements of Armenian lobbyists," said the ministry. According to the ministry, the issue of using the Lachin and Aghdam roads in compliance with Azerbaijani legislation, including the requirements of customs control, has been discussed with the American side at various levels for several weeks. Therefore, the American side was aware of the reason for the current situation. In addition, in the statement made in the US Senate, the false statements of the Armenians were repeated. Paris, France (PANA) - The number of children missing out on any schooling has increased by six million, bringing the total to 250 million, according to new figures released on Monday by the UN Education, Science, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Photo: (Photo : Erika Fletcher on Unsplash) In a harrowing event that has left communities devastated and officials searching for answers, a 1-year-old boy named Nicholas Dominici died last Friday due to suspected fentanyl exposure at a Bronx day care center. Three other children were also hospitalized under similar circumstances. Following the tragic incident, Carlisto Acevedo Brito, 41, and Grei Mendez, 36, were arrested Saturday night on multiple charges, including murder, manslaughter, assault, and endangering the welfare of a child. Unclear Relationship with Day Care and Ongoing Investigations The relationship between Brito and Mendez and the daycare center is still unclear, as police have not yet issued a statement clarifying their involvement. While the cause and manner of Nicholas Dominici's death remain under investigation, the incident has exposed critical vulnerabilities in child care settings amid the ongoing opioid crisis. Last Friday, shortly after 2:40 p.m., officers went to a 911 call and discovered Dominici unconscious and unresponsive . When he arrived at Montefiore Medical Center, he was declared dead. A 2-year-old boy and an 8-month-old daughter, who were both found unconscious at the scene, were also sent to the Montefiore Medical Center. The daughter is stable, but the son is classified as being in serious condition. Another 2-year-old kid who was taken to the hospital by his mother because he was "acting lethargic and unresponsive" is now in stable condition. All of the children discovered at the childcare facility received Narcan, the opioid overdose antidote, according to NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny. Later, a "kilo press," which Kenny defined as a tool "frequently used by drug dealers for packaging large quantities of narcotics," was found at the location according to a search warrant. Licensed by the state, the daycare center was last inspected on Sept. 9 by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and no violations were found at that time. Commissioner Ashwin Vasan disclosed that the center opened in January and had already undergone two routine inspections to secure its license. Read Also: Infant Fatality at New York City Day Care Leads to Hospitalization of Three Additional Children Mayor and Experts Call for Greater Awareness Mayor Eric Adams described the incident as a "real wake-up call," especially for those who might be storing opioids or fentanyl in their homes. "Mere contact is deadly for an adult and is extremely deadly for a child," he emphasized. The shocking event follows unsettling trends in recent research. A study published earlier this year in the journal Pediatrics revealed that opioids are the leading cause of poisoning deaths among children ages 5 and younger. In 2021 alone, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported more than 107,000 opioid-related overdose deaths, marking an all-time high. Despite Narcan's recent availability over the counter, this incident underscores that broader systemic efforts are needed to curb the opioid epidemic and safeguard vulnerable populations. It also raises pressing questions about the adequacy of regulations and inspections for daycare centers, particularly those that are home-based, like the center involved in this tragedy. The event has horrified parents, policymakers, and law enforcement officials alike, serving as a grim testament to the far-reaching impact of the opioid epidemic in America. As investigations continue, the incident is poised to be a catalyst for renewed dialogue and action aimed at both combating the opioid crisis and improving child safety in daycare settings. Related Article: Utah Day Care Horror: Toddler Found Bleeding with Bullet Lodged in Head Photo: (Photo : Lacie Slezak on Unsplash) The atmosphere is heavy with disbelief and sorrow in the Riverview community after a devastating incident disrupted the quiet of a Saturday afternoon. A 14-year-old boy has been arrested following a shooting spree that claimed the life of one woman and left another man critically injured. Residents are struggling to make sense of the event that unfolded on Lynmoor Drive, a grim chapter in an area otherwise known for its relative tranquility. Emergency dispatchers received multiple calls from concerned citizens recounting a shocking scene where a young male was running through the residential neighborhood, visibly armed with a handgun. The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office was quick to react, sending deputies to the scene to address the volatile situation. Life-or-Death Standoff with Deputies The officers were met with an exceptionally challenging situation. The armed teenager was cornered but in a highly emotional state, repeatedly threatening to commit suicide by pointing the gun at his head. Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister spoke in a subsequent media briefing about the tension-filled 16-minute standoff that ensued. Skillful negotiation and de-escalation techniques were employed by the deputies, eventually convincing the young suspect to put down his weapon. The precarious standoff took a sudden twist when the teenager tried to regain control of the firearm. Demonstrating prompt judgment, deputies fired a rubber bullet at his hand, neutralizing the immediate threat. Sheriff Chronister praised his team's instinctual and expert response: "They used their intuition and skills to determine that the suspect was not aiming to harm them but was contemplating ending his own life." While the tense situation with the young suspect was unfolding, another distressing development was taking place elsewhere. Emergency units raced to the site of a man who had been shot multiple times. This individual had managed to make it to a neighbor's home to seek help and was subsequently transported to a local hospital, where he is currently fighting for his life. Read Also: Virginia Judge Declares Ban on Handgun Sales to 18- to 20-Year-Olds Unconstitutional A Tragic Family Affair The tragic episode took another dark turn as deputies, after subduing the teenager, discovered the lifeless body of a woman in a nearby driveway. The woman was later identified as a family member of the young suspect. She was pronounced dead at the scene. "This is a nightmarish scenario for any community, let alone for a family. They have lost a mother, and their lives will never be the same," commented Sheriff Chronister. ABC's Tampa affiliate WFTS has reported unverified details, suggesting that the teenage suspect is believed to have fatally shot his mother, critically injured her boyfriend with five gunshot wounds, and even attempted to shoot his older brother. While these details are yet to be confirmed, they add a layer of complexity to an already incomprehensible event. The investigation is still underway, but the repercussions of this tragic incident are already evident. Questions abound regarding how a young individual could commit such violent acts. The tragedy has spurred urgent discussions about the intersecting issues of mental health, family dynamics, and gun violence, particularly involving young perpetrators. As law enforcement agencies continue their work to unravel the full story behind this calamitous event, the community seeks ways to heal and make sense of the tragedy. The need for actionable solutions to gun violence and mental health issues, especially among the younger generation, has never been more glaringly obvious. Related Article: 1-Year-Old Girl Fatally Shot by 3-Year-Old Sibling with Unsecured Firearm in California Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima, Peru, is to be equipped with 59 Safedock FleX advanced visual docking guidance systems (A-VDGS) from ADB Safegate, marking the companys first FleX installation in Latin America. The initial delivery is expected late summer 2023, with the following phases between December 2023 and July 2024. In partnership with Inti Punku Consortium, ADB Safegate will upgrade the airports operational systems, airfield ground lighting, docking guidance and apron management technologies at Jorge Chavez International Airport (Lima Airport) as part of the ambitious US$1.6bn Lima Airport expansion project, which aims to double the airports capacity. ') } else { console.log ('nompuad'); document.write(' ') } // --> ') } else if (width >= 425) { console.log ('largescreen'); document.write('') } else { console.log ('nompuad'); document.write('') } // --> The airports new air traffic control tower and a second runway opened in April 2023 equipped with an LED airfield ground lighting solution from ADB Safegate. Upgrades to the airports existing operational database, integration broker and resource management systems are also planned. Under this contract, ADB Safegate will deliver its latest Safedock FleX A-VDGS and AiPRON Manager giving Lima Airport a complete set of tools for efficiency. The Safedock FleX and AiPRON Manager will provide greater control over the new apron and five-story terminal building expected to open in 2025, ensuring the airport can experience automated, intelligent apron management and manage growth efficiently. The Safedock FleX was introduced by ADB Safegate in 2022 and offers advancements in A-VDGS technology for safer, smoother aircraft parking, even in low visibility. The A-VDGS also act as intelligent sensors at the gate, capable of collecting and sharing data to further improve apron operations. The web-based AiPRON Manager constantly monitors the A-VDGS and other connected apron equipment and systems and provides stakeholders with real-time data and alerts to potential issues before an aircraft arrives. As Lima Airport works to implement airport collaborative decision making (A-CDM), the Safedock FleX and AiPRON Manager will support A-CDM by exchanging relevant, accurate and timely information among stakeholders. For example, the A-VDGS will share target off block times (TOBT) and target start-up approval times (TSAT) with flight and ground crews. The FleX systems will work together with an earlier model Safedock A-VDGS in use for nearly 20 years at the existing terminal, and its airfield has consistently been equipped with ADB Safegate airfield ground lighting systems. Nick Haines, vice president of ADB Safegate Americas, said, We are thrilled to provide our latest technology for the Lima Airport Expansion Project. The new A-VDGS and AiPRON Manager will set the airport up for future advances in intelligent apron management and help deliver better control, safety and efficiency to deliver an even better experience for their airline partners and passengers. For more key technology updates from the passenger terminal industry, click here. Highlights: Why 1913, the year of his birth, became a special year in Cleons drive to achieve political success. God gave me a mission in life to fight the three political mistakes of 1913!(See p. 308-309). Working with the ruthless J. Edgar Hoover during his 16 years with the FBI, plus Skousens encounters with gangsters Mickey Cohen, Bugsy Siegel and Machine Gun Kelly (49-51, 80-84, 88-90, 270-271). A Church leader predicts in the summer of 1939, There will be war! which leads to Cleons first book, Prophecy and Modern Times. (59-60) Behind the scenes at the FBI headquarters on the Day of Infamy, December 7, 1941, when Japan bombed Pearl Harbor (73-74). Cleons scariest assignment: planting a telephone bug in gangster Mickey Cohens house in LA. Suddenly, someone yelled, Shhhh! The FBI! (81-82). Meeting famed Gone with the Wind actress Olivia de Havilland and how he used a secret tape to show how she was being duped by a Communist front organization: Her surprising reaction (85-87). This story is worth the price of the book! His confrontation with an atheist professor and later a debate with the son of notorious atheist Madalyn OHair (38-42, 383-385). His courtship of his high-school sweetheart Jewel Pitcher,and the secret to their marriage that lasted 74 years (43-44, 166, 479-480). What it was like raising five boys and three girls, and why his faithful wife Jewel should be the co-author of Cleons book, So You Want to Raise a Boy (206-209). The real reason Skousen was fired as chief of police of Salt Lake City in 1960 (168-169). How a Church leaders public endorsement made The Naked Communist an overnight bestseller, selling over two million copies (153-154, 160-161). Cleons appearance on nationwide TV at the Hollywood Bowl on October 16, 1961, with John Wayne, Jimmy Stewart, Senator George Murphy and Ronald Reagan in Hollywoods Answer to Communism (193-198). Cleons friendship with Hollywood producer Cecil B. DeMilleand his role in the filming of The Ten Commandments (136-140). Friendships with the Osmonds (373-375, 385), Roy Rogers and Dale Evans (166, 195), Art Linkletter (300-302), Eagle Forum founder Phyllis Schlafly (442-443) and economist Milton Friedman (299-300). Did Elvis Presley read Cleons First 2,000 Years?! (351-352). His special relationship with Ronald Reagan, and the behind-the-scenes reason why Reagan was forced to add George W. Bush Sr. to the Presidential ticket in 1980 (243-244, 331-332, 380-381, 387). How his Freemen Institute helped elect Utah Senator Orrin Hatch; their close friendship (290-292, 308-309, 322-324, 365-367). Cleons 70-year close relationship with Ezra Taft Benson as Secretary of Agriculture under Eisenhower and later as president of the LDS Church. Confessing a weakness for defending controversial figures like Senator Joseph McCarthy (296-297), the John Birch Society(299), Black Panther Eldridge Cleaver (345-351) and Reverend Moon (343-344), and how they all eventually disappointed him. What Others Are Saying Cleon Skousen was a key figure in the emergence of modern conservatism and the Reagan Revolution. Newt Gingrich, former Speaker of the House Congratulations for bringing this wise American patriot back to center stage. His book remains a standard bearer for those who believe in the miracle of America. Ed Feulner, Heritage Foundation It is difficult to overstate how big a name W. Cleon Skousen was when I was growing up in southern California. His books were widely read and his views on history, religion and politics carried considerable weight. This new compilation affords a look into the mind and personality of an author whose influence continues to echo into the 20th century. BYU Professor Daniel Peterson I say we need a thousand Skousens. Eldridge Cleaver, former Black Panther How to Order the First Edition We printed up 4,000 copies of the first edition of There Were Giants in the Land, and they will sell quickly. Its available in hardback only and is 544 pages long, with lots of photographs spread throughout the text. Both Jo Ann and I wrote introductions, and an index. It is beautifully designed and will be a keepsake to be read and re-read. Every page is full of interesting stories and commentaries, all relevant to todays hot political, economic and cultural issues. The pub date is this Sunday, Sept. 17, which is Constitution Day. (Cleon would like that.) It is now in stock and available in bookstores and on Amazon. (A Kindle version and audiobook are in the works.) We offer the best deal. Buy it at a discount at www.skousenbooks.com. Its priced at only $34.95 postpaid. We pay shipping anywhere in all 50 states. Order your copy today. (They also make a great holiday or birthday gift.) Good Investing, AEIOU, Mark Skousen Doti-Spogli Endowed Chair of Free Enterprise, Chapman University Wikipedia Newsletter and trading services Personal website FreedomFest St. Pauls Teaching About Financial Support of Christian Workers, and His Own Example [my professionally designed blog (Blogspot): 2009-2015] I offer (as far as I know or have seen) the most comprehensive, wide-ranging, and detailed collection of Catholic and general Christian apologetics articles and books available online from a single individual (even more than probably almost all group sites that feature many writers). I designed my blog to be the one-stop place for Catholic apologetics. If you are looking for a topic in this area, chances are Ive written about it, and all of my articles are always free of charge. As my own parish priest, Fr. Ed Fride has told me, Youve written about everything! The total number is currently about 4,350 articles or web pages. Unsolicited endorsing comments from Catholics, including fellow Catholic apologists, bear witness to this fact. Steve Ray wrote: I am constantly sending people to your page to find answers for their questions and sources for their search. Tim Staples stated that my blog is a veritable treasure chest of information. Mike Aquilina added: If someone pitches a hard question at me, I go first to your site. Then I send the questioner directly to the page that best answers the question. I know its going to be on your site. Al Kresta gushed: Your website is incredible and I recommend it regularly. Fr. Paddy McCafferty from Belfast exclaimed that my blog is an inexhaustible fount of excellent material on virtually every topic and an invaluable resource of superb apologetics. The late Thomas Howard wrote in a letter to me: Bravo to you for all that youve written. You seem to have read everyone and everything. A Catholic layman wrote way back in August 1998, when my website was only a year-and-a-half old and had about one-ninth as much material as it does now: There is enough information there to last me the rest of my life! I cant tell you how great it is to find all the tremendous links you have. And another wrote in February 1999: My apologetical skills as a defender of Catholicism have improved 100% due almost entirely to your site. Thanks to the font of information which you have there, I can usually find almost anything I need to defend the Church against even the most obscure or bizarre charges. Im just doing what I love, folks; the vocation God has called me to. As St. Paul wrote, God is at work in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure (Phil 2:13, RSV), and let every one lead the life which the Lord has assigned to him, and in which God has called him (1 Cor 7:17). Paul wrote about his own ministry as an apostle and evangelist: necessity is laid upon me. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! (1 Cor 9:16). He also wrote in the same chapter: in my preaching I . . . make the gospel free of charge, not making full use of my right in the gospel (9:18). This is what I have massively done, too, offering all of my several thousand articles for free to the general public, and sixteen of my 54 books for free. Ive even made tents as Paul did (Acts 18:3); that is, I have taken on four additional part-time jobs including a large urban paper route seven days a week for a year-and-a-half, and moderator work at The Coming Home Network since I have been a full-time apologist, these past nearly 22 years. But note that Paul referred to his right. What he meant is that he and other Christian workers are entitled to be paid for their efforts: 1 Corinthians 9:4, 7, 11, 13-14 Do we not have the right to our food and drink? . . . [7] Who serves as a soldier at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard without eating any of its fruit? Who tends a flock without getting some of the milk? . . . [11] If we have sown spiritual good among you, is it too much if we reap your material benefits? [13] Do you not know that those who are employed in the temple service get their food from the temple, and those who serve at the altar share in the sacrificial offerings? [14] In the same way, the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel. So (as I always try to do), I have sought to emulate St. Paul by offering so much for free, by tentmaking when financial necessity demanded it, and by not being afraid to also share his message that Christian workers are entitled to their wages, just like anyone else. Pauls own voluntary renunciation of that did not nullify or contradict the general principle he laid down. He was exercising heroic self-sacrifice. At the same time, however, he was also supported at least at times by brothers and sisters in Christ (e.g., my needs were supplied by the brethren who came from Macedonia: 2 Cor 11:9). St. Luke wrote about how the people of Malta treated St. Paul and himself: They presented many gifts to us; and when we sailed, they put on board whatever we needed (Acts 28:10). My friends, and esteemed readers, I need your help today to continue to do my work and fully devote myself to it (as I have for thirteen years). I have Social Security income now, and book and article royalties, but I also need (and have always needed) additional donations to complete my monthly budget. Donations are not my total support (and not a majority of it), but are a necessary support. Here is the information for donations, including 100% tax-deduction should you desire that. You see the work I have already done. I only ask those to support my work who have been personally helped by it, or who believe it is a valuable and effective work of apologetics and evangelism for others. My desire to keep working as hard as I have been for these past 42 years of apologetics writing (the last 22, full-time) has not abated one bit. I truly consider my latest book on biblical archaeology to be the best of all my books. There is no retirement in view here. I dont even know what the word means. Writing isnt physically laborious. Summary: Explanation of the rationale and need for funds to support Dave Armstrongs full-time apologetics apostolate. Please seriously consider a generous donation today! Hold Loosely But Practice Deeply by John Beckett The Denton Unitarian Universalist Fellowship September 17, 2023 When someone finds out Im a Unitarian Universalist, its not long before they ask so, what do you all believe? My usual response is to say that UUs are united not by common beliefs but by shared values. If they push harder, Ill say we believe whats most important is to live fully and virtuously, and to build a better world for all, here and now. I think thats a fairly accurate response, even if its not the kind of response people whove always been taught that religion is all about doctrines and creeds would expect. That doesnt mean UUs dont have beliefs because we do. We have no collective orthodoxy for which I am thankful but we still wonder about the Big Questions of Life. How did the Universe begin? Are there many Gods, one God, or no Gods? What happens after death if anything? How do we understand our deeply spiritual experiences, especially those that call us to do something? These questions arent important to everyone. If thats you, know that I respect your position, and I hope you learn something this morning thats interesting, even if it doesnt directly apply to you. In any case, well continue to work together to build a better world here and now. But these questions have been with us for at least as long as weve been human. People have been wondering, and speculating, and arguing for and against various answers for thousands of years. Many of us still wonder about them. And also, some of us grew up in a religion where we were told these questions were of utmost importance. We were told there were things we had to believe, or suffer dire and eternal consequences. We may have rejected those ideas a long time ago, but their tentacles can reach deep into our minds and into our souls, particularly the ideas we were taught as young children. So for those of us who are recovering from toxic religion, or who have a deep curiosity in metaphysical and theological questions, or who feel a call to something more, we need a path forward. We need a process, we need a roadmap. I want to offer you one such approach this morning. I call it hold loosely but practice deeply. The inherent uncertainly of religious questions I grew up in a fundamentalist Christian church. I was told I had to believe some things, but I was also told I could believe them with certainty. Now, I was a very literal-minded kid. When they told me I could know something, I assumed I could know it in the same way I know two plus two equals four, or that Austin is the capital of Texas. But the scriptures they liked to quote were metaphorical and ambiguous almost as though they were meant to be read that way. When I challenged their certainty, I was told you just need to believe. It would take me many years to understand they were struggling with the same questions I was. But they were afraid to consider that maybe what they had always been told was true wasnt true. Maybe they were afraid that if they abandoned fundamentalist Christianity theyd end up in hell. Maybe they couldnt deal with the possibility of losing their religious identity. Both are serious concerns and they have my sincere sympathy. But the fact is that all religious questions are inherently uncertain. What happens after death? Do we live on in an afterlife? Does the afterlife have one place for everyone? Does it have one place for the good and another place for the bad? Does it have many different places and states of being? Perhaps were reincarnated into this life. Or maybe there is just this one life, and we only live on in the hearts and minds of those who knew us? How do we know which is right and which is wrong? Outside of an occurrence that would properly be described as miraculous, how could we know? We cant, at least not with any sort of objective certainty. And still we wonder: what happens after death? Perhaps you can say we dont know and leave it at that. I occasionally see a bumper sticker in UU parking lots that says Militant Agnostic: I dont know and neither do you. Thats certainly a valid approach. But it doesnt work for me, and it doesnt work for those of us who cant help wondering about the Big Questions of Life. And so our first step in dealing with these questions is to accept their inherent uncertainty. Questions lead to inquiry I occasionally encounter the phrase questions demand answers. Theres some truth to that. Unfortunately, the phrase is often used in bad faith, to insist that one particular answer must be the only answer. A better approach, I think, is questions demand inquiry. Again, this assumes you find the question worthy of your time. Its like when people knock on your door to share their religion with you. You owe them nothing, and you certainly dont owe them a debate on their terms. But if you do find a question important, or fascinating, or frustrating, you owe it to yourself to explore it in honest inquiry. We are fortunate to live in an era where most of the worlds knowledge is literally at our fingertips. If you want something deeper, books that were all but impossible to find not all that long ago can be delivered to your doorstep translated into English in a matter of days. What answers have other people proposed? Whose arguments do you find persuasive? Whose arguments do you find lacking? How does thinking vary within a religious or cultural tradition? What have people outside your tradition proposed? I found Buddhist sources to be very helpful in the early days of my spiritual journey. Even though I quickly figured out that Buddhism isnt for me, seeing how other cultures approached the Big Questions of Life helped reinforce the fact that there are many valid approaches to them. Which is not to say that deep down its all the same it isnt. The worlds religions arent many paths up one mountain, theyre many paths up many different mountains. Which mountain do you want to climb? And sometimes, we read and think and meditate, and at the end of it all we realize that the real benefit isnt in finding the answer its in the process of inquiry, the spiritual and intellectual growth that inquiry stimulates. The role of religious experiences Reading the thinking of others throughout the course of history give us a place to start, and it gives us context for our own thinking. But even more important are our first-hand religious and spiritual experiences. Many of these experiences are subtle. Looking up at the night sky, realizing how old and how vast the universe is, how small and brief we are, and realizing that here we are, a part of it all, contemplating it all. Sunrises and sunsets not just that beautiful orange glow on the horizon, but being outside long enough to start in full darkness and experiencing the gradual transition to full light. Some are not subtle at all. Births, deaths, illnesses. Joyous victories and crushing defeats. All perfectly natural, and yet packed with meaning far beyond the ordinary. And some experiences can only be described as mysterious. Prophetic dreams that come true. Intuition about something we had no way of knowing. A first-hand encounter with a God or other mighty spirit. Can I tell you a secret? Most people have these experiences. Many of us dont recognize them because theyre subtle, and were expecting Zeus to appear in-body and throwing lightning bolts. But even when we do recognize them we dont talk about them for fear of being ridiculed. Or we rationalize them away, because were convinced theres no logical explanation for them and therefore they cant be real. But get ordinary people in a safe setting and theyll start talking. You know, one time I saw this thing and I was sure it wasnt from this world. Or theyll say something like sometimes I hear my grandmothers voice, and shes been dead for years. Not all of our wondering comes from metaphysical questions. Some of it comes from our own first-hand experiences. The role of discernment Our religious and spiritual experiences are always real. We saw what we saw, heard what we heard, felt what we felt. Never let anyone tell you it couldnt have happened, especially when you were there and they werent. But while our experiences are always real, some interpretations of those experiences are more accurate and more helpful than others. This is the process of discernment. The dictionary defines discernment as the ability to judge well. Its the process of drawing fine distinctions between two or more things that are similar but not identical. Its separating facts from errors and from opinions, distilling the facts into truth, and then figuring out what to do what all of it. All that reading we were talking about? That provides context, a reference for understanding our experiences and for locating ourselves in them. At one level, discernment is a matching operation. We look at our experience, then we look at something we know a story, a theory, another experience and say is this like that? Then we pick up another comparison and say is it like this? We do this over and over and over again, comparing what we saw and heard and felt to anything in our breadth of knowledge and seeing if it matches. If our knowledge isnt particularly broad, we may not be able to make a good match. This is what happens when young children see unfamiliar animals and end up giving them funny names, like the kid who called a camel a sand horse. Its cute, and it kinda makes sense, but a camel isnt a horse. If you just need a ride across town, that may not matter. If youre trying to win a race at the horse track, or if youre trying to make it across a desert, it matters a lot. Whether were trying to answer one of the Big Questions of Life or interpret our own spiritual experiences, the process of discernment helps us find an answer. But whatever we find is only a tentative answer. Practice deeply What do you think is the best answer, the best explanation? Is it reasonable? Is it plausible? We want to make sure its our best guess and not just what we want to be true. But if we wait for certainty well never do anything. So my suggestion is to take that tentative answer and run with it. If there are Gods, how can we best relate to them and understand them? Polytheist tradition says with prayers, offerings, and meditation. Even if nothing else happens, we know that Emerson spoke the truth when he said that which we are worshipping, we are becoming. Becoming more God-like embodying the virtues of the Gods is a very good thing. Are our cats and dogs persons? Of course they are, and we treat them like persons. What happens if we take that a step farther and treat the trees like persons, the land like persons, the winds like persons? Its not very hard, and our planet would be a better place if we did. Many of us already practice some sort of ancestor veneration. We have our grandparents and great grandparents pictures on our wall. We have their mementos on our shelves. We remember them including those we never met in this life. Its not much farther to speak to them on a regular basis and to listen for their responses. Are the responses we get the voices of our ancestors speaking to us from the afterlife? Are they only our memories? This much we know: that which is remembered, lives. We take our tentative answers and we put them into practice. That gets us started. In the beginning it takes some effort youre doing something new and different. It takes time and repetition for it to become a habit. Give it the time it needs thats somewhere between three weeks and three months. This is the practice deeply part. Review and remain open Beginning a spiritual practice is beginning a journey, a journey that were not exactly sure where it will lead. As with any new practice, we have to give it some time and not abandon it the first time things get difficult. But before too long, where were going should start to become apparent. Do you like where youre going? Does it help you deal with the Big Questions of Life? Does it make your life more meaningful, even if it doesnt make it any easier? If so, good keep doing it. If not, then take a closer look. Are you giving it an honest try? Do you need to be more consistent with your practice? Or is this just not for you? There are many different spiritual traditions, and most of them can be practiced within a UU context. If this one isnt for you, perhaps another one is. Where ever we go, we will have new experiences what do those experience tell us? We continue reading, and listening, and thinking. What do we learn along the way? As we learn, we periodically revisit our Big Questions. Do our tentative answers still make good sense? Do we need to adjust them? Or have we have learned something that forces us to go back to the beginning and start over? If new evidence or new experiences or new ways of thinking contradict our beliefs, we owe it to ourselves to re-evaluate those beliefs, to go through another process of discernment, and come up with a new answer which will also be tentative. Our commitment to truth must be greater than our commitment to any tradition, no matter how long, or to any belief, no matter how cherished. We can never be sure were exactly right, but we can move closer in that direction. Those of us who didnt grow up UU have already done that. There was something in the religion of our childhood that wasnt quite right or maybe was very wrong. We abandoned one path and picked up another path, a path that eventually led us here. And just as we did that and found a new religious community, we can do that and find new religious and spiritual beliefs, ideas, and practices. This is the hold loosely part. No belief, no line of thinking is above questioning. This can be difficult. When presented with evidence that their beliefs are wrong about religion, spirituality, politics, science, pretty much anything most people will reject the evidence and double down on what theyve always believed. If you want to change peoples minds you have to it indirectly, with stories and art and relationships. Thats another subject for another time. Whats important this morning is that were aware of this human tendency, and so we can do better in our own lives. Which would you rather do? Change your beliefs and be closer to right, or tell yourself a comfortable lie and insist you was right all along? Theres no shame in admitting you were wrong, especially if you were wrong because you were taught wrong growing up. Continuing to be wrong because you dont want to change? Thats another matter entirely. Conclusion Perhaps someday we will discover or develop a way to answer religious, spiritual, and metaphysical questions with certainty, though I do not think so. I believe theres that word again these questions are inherently uncertain. And in any case, they are uncertain for us here and now. How do we deal with them? One approach is to simply decline to deal with them. If you find these questions uninteresting or unhelpful, this is the approach for you. But some of us cant stop wondering. Some peoples approach is to claim that their tradition has all the answers, or at least all the important ones. Without fail, they overstate the evidence for their own belief and understate or outright deny any evidence to the contrary. Or, we can build a strong foundation through reading and study. We can examine our spiritual experiences, and find whats meaningful and helpful within them. We can develop answers that will never be final, but are enough to get us started. Then we practice deeply and see where that practice takes us. All the while, we remain open to new evidence, new experiences, and new ways of thinking. If we discover that what we think is wrong, or something else is better, we change what we think, and we adjust our practices accordingly. Hold loosely, but practice deeply. Benediction I grew up in a religion that was certain it had all the answers to all the questions. Figuring out they were wrong was easy. Figuring out what to do instead has been the work of a lifetime, work that will continue as long as Im in this world, and perhaps, beyond. I want to answer the Big Questions of Life with certainty, and I cant. But the answers Ive found are reasonable, and the practices they inspire help me live a life that is meaningful and satisfying. I hope you can do the same, even if your answers are different from my answers. Hold loosely, but practice deeply. I saw a huge form, rounded and shadowy, and shaped like an egg Its outer layer consisted of an atmosphere of bright fire with a kind of dark membrane beneath it From the outer atmosphere of fire, a wind blew storms. And from the dark membrane beneath, another membrane raged with further storms which moved out in all directions of the globe. Hildegard of Bingen, Scivias, Book One, Vision Three Its been such an honor, and a genuine pleasure to serve as one of your consulting ministers here at the First Unitarian Church of Los Angeles for these past three years. And, well, everything ends. As the wise remind us, change is the only constant. For Jan and me, for all practical purposes weve moved to Tujunga to be with Jans mom. For now, its pretty light lifting. But we do need to be around. In reframing our lives for this next bit, I see a broad outline. Family first. But also, Ill continue to write. I now have contracts for two books, what will be my sixth and my seventh. Maybe therell be more after these, but I wouldnt bet a great deal of money on it. The first has been a deal in the works for a while now. Its a reflection on the arc of the spiritual life which is due from Shambhala Publications in July of 2024. The second, a reflection on the core of Zen teachings against the backdrop of the chaos of religion in the Global North, will be published by Monkfish in the Fall of 2025. Of course, my Monkey Mind blog continues. As of this month Im beginning my seventeenth year with it. And while nowadays its a couple of times a week rather than near daily, I very much continue to enjoy it. Our online Zen community continues. If you are looking for a meditation group, check us out. Just google Empty Moon Zen, or my name and Zen. As to Unitarian Universalism, the closest congregations to us in our new lives are the two in Pasadena. Next week, Ive been asked to cover the Sunday services for the minister at Neighborhood Unitarian Church, who has an unexpected obligation. Im open to being of use. I like being of use. But any future obligations will be light. Im feeling my seventy-five years. And this feels enough. All that said, what about today? What can I say beyond letting you know what my near future plans are, and my expressions of love and gratitude. I am so impressed with this vibrant little band gathered and thriving in the crumbling edifice of an historic church at the heart of one of the great global cities. I love what I see. And basically, what I see is a manifestation of the spiritual but not religious. Or, in your case, perhaps the spiritual but barely religious. Kind of the hallmark of our contemporary Unitarian Universalism at our best. I see in your band lots of concern for the world. Care and social engagement beating a strong heart that motivates a lot of what you are about. Although maybe as a group a bit less clear about what that spiritual part might be. This is the First Unitarian Church, after all. And maybe something to attend to. It, some spiritual intuition, is, I suggest, what informs your reaching out to the world. Or can. And understanding it can sustain you for the long haul. So, this intuition is what I feel is important to talk about today. As it happens today is celebrated within the Christian world as the feast of Hildegard of Bingen. She was born at the tail end of the eleventh century into the lower nobility of the Holy Roman Empire, which you may recall from some history class was not holy, nor Roman, nor an Empire. Rather it was a confederation spanning much of central Europe for quite a while. Hildegard lived in what today is Germany. She spent her life as a Benedictine nun. She was also a visionary. Which truthfully barely describes the abbess, one of the singular people not only of her age, but right down to today. Her interests and the subjects of her visions were wide, ranging from medicine, to music, to the natural sciences, especially ecology. Hildegard wrote what is generally considered the oldest surviving morality play. Throughout her life she continued to break past the conventions of gender and became a popular preacher, taking three major tours to lecture on her teachings. She became counselor to bishops and kings. She even had the popes ear. Speaking of teachings, through extensive commentaries on her visions Hildegard became a major theologian. Ill return to her and that in a moment. A major question for our time and place where the supernatural aspects of religions are increasingly hard to support. Where God has been reduced to the cracks of science, and any idea of human beings standing in any way outside the flow of natural events seeming absurd on the face of it, well, what does this mean for any kind of spirituality? Especially considering that intuition of care and our sense of some call to justice? What about meaning? What about purpose? What can these words mean for us today? We live in a secular world. That is a nonreligious world. This is a hallmark of our times and extends well beyond the Global North. And one thing for sure, our secular age isnt big on meaning and purpose. Spiritual practices are reduced to physical and mental hygiene. And somehow the secular has slid rapidly into a bare consumerism. Theres a lot of analysis of neo-liberalism. When you look at it, some of it is actually coopted by market assumptions. Lots of ironies in our lives. But this ubiquity of markets also points to the sea in which we now live. We are customers and product. And in service to that our lives are distracted from any considerations beyond the market. Im taken by the Christian term for this distracted world: Empire. It fits. The empires tendrils of grasping and endlessly arising fixes to that which ills that are all available for the right price. And, rage at those who dare say otherwise. Empire also reminds us that this consumer age is simply the most current iteration of something poisonous in our human hearts. And. This is the world we live in. One would be foolish not to understand economics and business at some nitty gritty levels. It is where we live. And pretending otherwise is probably a mistake. But even if this is the world, there is also something profoundly wrong in a consumer driven life. Living in the empire is not a good thing. It often seems to be a path to despair. I looked and it seems about one in twenty among us are regularly using prescription medications for anxiety. And, for most of us who are, I think its important people have that help. A lot more of us are self-medicating in all sorts of different ways. Again, Im not really against that. These are practical responses to something deeply wrong. Yes, with a lot of buts and ands. But. And. And a turning, or at least an invitation. What is our spirituality? What might be a current that runs through all our different approaches within this community? I suggest a great deal of this project turns on engaging nonduality. The term means not dual. It is a view of the world that encompasses two truths that appear on the surface of things to be mutually contradictory. We are as we are in this world you and I and all the other things. Discrete, individual. Rising and falling. Subject to the currents and tides of events. And. In our Unitarian Universalist sense each of us precious. I suggest because at the very same time of all this rising and falling, the nondual assertion is that we are all bound up together. In some very, very real sense is the assertion we are one. Its actually within that intuition we can speak of precious, valuable, unique and wondrous. I suggest to you out of my years, that the spiritual project is about understanding this nonduality as our intimate personal truth. We find it, and we understand ourselves. We find it and we understand our impulse to be of use in this world. This sense realized is a cornucopia of care and love, and, through those things, justice. Its good to notice most of religion is about culture. Framed generously religion is about cultural cohesion. Framed more harshly, its about crowd control. Religions is mainly about serving the Empire. But is there more to this? Especially as we take the teachings of religions as hard-earned metaphors for deep matters. The literal often is for the Empire. The images and metaphors held not as history but as the currents of our inner lives belong to the nondual. As I see it most all religions have this nondual aspect. For some it is very much in the background, and on occasion bald assertions of nonduality is suppressed and even violently persecuted. After all, nonduality challenges all sorts of cultural norms, is anathema to the Empire. That said in some religions the nondual gets a more central place. Zen Buddhism is an example. Especially as Zen offers some practical spiritual disciplines to help people find this nondual truth as a personal thing. Although there is a warning in how in Japan the Zen churches were successfully coopted by Empire, in this case the literal one, leading into the second world war. We always have to be careful when engaging the deeper matters of our spiritual lives. But the important thing I want to share here is that nondual impulse, and its practices. That it exists many places, each with different twists, is also important. To cite two examples. Zens nonduality is also nontheistic. Advita Vedanta the nondual in Hinduism is theistic. My take away is how we humans encounter this great nondual mystery in all sorts of ways. I would add our Unitarian Universalist stream of nonduality arises within Transcendentalism, which itself is ultimately nature-centered, and Universalism, the intuition that no one is left behind. Which brings us, at least briefly, back to the wondrous Hildegard of Bingin. One writer, Marco Vannini, tells us how Hildegard found the meaning of the unity and divinity of the cosmos with which the human being is profoundly and wonderfully united, to the point of constituting itself a cosmos, and a whole. There is something potentially powerful for us here as we consider the whole of which we are a part, and in that find an invitation to discover how we, you and I, as we are, recapitulate the whole of the cosmos. As we are. As who we are. Secrets of the nondual. For Hildegard we humans are each of us the manifestation of the divine. It wasnt hierarchical as so much of Christianity is, but rather, in her imagery, like a cosmic egg, where all the nested layers are interconnected. And, I find critical for our time and place, centered in the earth. Hers was a mystical ecology, where everyone, and in a very real sense everything is connected, and holy. Theres a lot in what she says that is directly applicable to a contemporary nature-centered Unitarian Universalism. Kind of a bottom line: As UUs we are invited to see for ourselves. We start with the individual. But be careful. The seductions of markets, the seductions of consumerisms of all sorts arise from an unbalanced sense of the individual. The Empire rests selling the belief that what makes me feel good for a moment is the measure of all things. And that everything is disposable. The good in this is that we get to choose. But what we choose matters. Instead of cheap goods and quick fixes, what about the possibilities of looking to the ancestors and guided by them, into the depths of our own hearts? What happens when we allow the mystery to unfold as our living truth? What I find most important for us, for you, if you hope to find peace for yourselves, and to be active participants in the healing of the many wounds, you need to know for yourself, in your own way, what this nondual is. It cannot be found in a denial of our individuality. The individual, you, me, we need to see how much we are bound up together. For us, while there are wonderful spiritual disciplines, like meditation, and I commend them, but for UUs specifically the main way we find this by engaging communally. I suggest we need to reframe what that looks like. This is our sacred work. And maybe yours? We need to move away from the bare inheritance of our Puritan ancestors, or from a knee-jerk reaction by rejecting their myths because they dont map history. The stories of the ancestors do map our hearts, if always in part, and properly engaged, can be enormously helpful. Here, I think of Mordecai Kaplan the founder of Jewish Reconstruction. In my years as a UU parish minister, two of the four churches I served housed Reconstructionist congregations. I loved them. On the one hand they were enthusiastic, whole-hearted observers of the tradition. When I think of theologians I tend to think of logicians, theoretical, and frankly, often bloodless. Reconstruction shows something different. Their services ran on, sometimes for hours, filled with singing and procession and dancing. To the casual observer they looked remarkably like Orthodox or Hasids. But. Women counted for minyan. And I knew for a fact many were agnostics or atheists. Originally Orthodox, Rabbi Kaplans approach to the tradition was pragmatic. As he would say of the traditions, they have a vote, but not a veto. Another line for this is engaging ones religious tradition seriously but not literally. Here I see a possible pattern for you all. For Unitarian Universalists writ large. But specifically for this congregation in Korea Town. I think about why it makes sense to embrace the holy rather than simply slipping into secularism. And with that, what might it look like? Where is the orthopraxy of natural religion? I suggest an embrace, specifically, of Transcendentalism and Universalism. In its several strands, the Hindu-like Transcendentalism of Ralph Waldo Emerson, the Taoist-like Transcendentalism of Henry Thoreau, and the feminist Transcendentalism of Margaret Fuller. There are Buddhist Transcendentalist strands. There are Christian Transcendentalist strands. And equally important discovering the intimations of the nondual that run a rich current through our Universalist history. Our Unitarian strand is rich with stories of standing up to authority. Our Universalist strand is awash with miracle and intimations of joy. Taken together the invitation for us here today is a New Universalism. Weve inherited something rich. Pay a little attention to it. Here we find endless possibilities. And this, dear ones, is my last word. I hope its useful. Amen. Though its had its ups and downs, Microsofts Surface line of tablets and laptops is generally viewed as a big success for the company, helping to shape both its own identity and the premium PC market over the last decade. The man in charge of it all is Panos Panay, a nearly 20-year veteran of Microsofts executive group and a huge part of the Surface and Windows teams. Microsoft has announced that hes leaving the company as of today. His current plans arent known. Update: According to an unconfirmed report from Bloomberg, Panay has been hired by Amazon to lead its Alexa and Echo product divisions. Panays ultimate title at Microsoft was Chief Product Officer, and he was a constant presence at the companys product announcements for both in-person and video events. Though hes an effective brand ambassador and hype man, hes also been an essential member of the companys higher-ups, credited with leading the teams that created the Surface brand in 2012 and Windows 11. Panay unveiled both products in their public debuts. In a PR email sent to PCWorld, Microsoft Executive Vice President Rajesh Ja praised Panays leadership and impact on the companys products and culture. Jha says that Microsoft will double down on [its] strategy, so dont expect any huge changes in directions for either Windows or Microsoft-branded PC hardware. The timing of Panays departure might raise a few eyebrows, as its just a few days before Microsofts yearly fall event, where we can expect to see updates to Surface hardware. Typically Panay would be on hand to show off the updated designs and any new products, but that may not be the case this year. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. The Armenian armed forces numbering more than 10,000 people are still illegally located on the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said at a briefing for the diplomatic corps accredited in Azerbaijan, Trend reports. More than a hundred tanks and other armored vehicles, more than two hundred heavy artillery installations, including multiple launch rocket systems, dozens of various electronic warfare systems, and more than two hundred mortar systems are currently deployed on the territory of Azerbaijan, where the Russian peacekeeping contingent is temporarily stationed. Contrary to its obligations, Armenia provides these forces with technical, military, logistical and financial support. Armed formations on the territory of Azerbaijan are financed directly from the state budget of Armenia. Armenia blatantly violates the trilateral statement of November 10, 2020, which in paragraph 4 directly reflects the requirement for the withdrawal of the Armenian armed forces in parallel with the deployment of the peacekeeping contingent of Russia. According to the ministry, the use of electronic warfare systems illegally deployed in the sovereign territories of Azerbaijan is of particular concern. Azerbaijan Airlines civil airlines, as well as airlines of foreign countries, have been exposed to electronic interference over the past few months, including July 13, July 24, July 27, August 21, and September 1. These interventions pose a serious threat to the safety of people and air traffic. The International Civil Aviation Organization, as well as the peacekeeping contingent of Russia were informed about such threatening actions. In recent days, there has been an increase in military provocations, accompanied by the intensification of military engineering works and other military construction activities, both along the non-delimited border between Azerbaijan and Armenia, and in the Karabakh region. Armenia is openly digging new trenches, erecting fortifications, collecting personnel and equipment for the next military offensive," said the ministry. NPP stalwart, Kofi Tonto has called on the media and Civil Society groups to pick up the mantle of educating the public on the importance of the increment in cocoa producer price by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. The President recently increased cocoa producer price per bag to GHc1,308 for the new cocoa season; this represents a 63.6% upward adjustment of the farm gate price of cocoa beans. This announcement brings a big relief to cocoa farmers, however, the largest opposition National Democratic Congress has downplayed the initiative. They claim they would have done better than President Akufo-Addo's government. "As we speak now, cocoa prices have seen the biggest increment since 1977, so it is your season to make a profit. If NDC were to be in government, we would have a bag of cocoa at GH2,500 and add a premium of GH300. So you would have received GH2,800 per bag, Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson said at a conference with cocoa farmers at Dadiesoaba in the Ahafo Region. Responding to the NDC criticisms, Kofi Tonto, on Peace FM's morning show "Kokrokoo", appealed to the experts to come out and deflate the argument by the opposition party. To him, the NDC is mischievously criticizing the move although they know that they are wrong. "Where are the neutral arbiters?", Kofi Tonto asked. "This is the time for the media, civil societies and experts to come and tell the truth for Ghanaians to know the truth," he implored, believing should these parties get involved in cocoa pricing brouhaha, the truth will be told and it will be in favour of the government. Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Five illegal miners (galamseyers) who were caught mining in the Ankobra River without authority have been sentenced to a total of 125 years imprisonment in hard labour. Richard Kumasi, Fiamahe Jerry John, Korblavi Kumasi, Daniel Afenu, and Matthew Gedie, pleaded not guilty to conspiracy to commit crime and undertaking small-scale mining without authority. The court, presided over by Hathia Ama Manu, after trial, found all five persons guilty of the charges leveled against them. On count one, the court sentenced each one of them to five years imprisonment, while on count two, each was fined GH120,000 or in default five years imprisonment plus 20 years in hard labour. The sentences are to run concurrently. The Assistant State Attorney in the Western Region, Kingsley Agyekum, prosecuting, said Nana Yaw Baako, the Assembly member of Himan Electoral Area, is the complainant, while the accused persons were illegal miners, resident at Ankobra in the Prestea Huni-Valley Municipality. On August 17, 2021, at about 3pm, the complainant and five opinion leaders had information that the accused persons were prospecting for gold with a dredge machine in the Ankobra River. Based on the tip-off, they proceeded to a village called Kpoviadzi in the Prestea Huni-Valley Municipality, where they met the five persons working. Mr Agyekum said they were all apprehended and handed over to the police at Prestea to assist in investigations, while the dredge machine was set ablaze. The five persons, before the trial, were admitted to bail as prayed by their counsel, Mr Augustine Arvoh-Mensah. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The family of the former Krontihene of the Goaso Traditional Area, Nana Kwadwo Kumah Yenhyira, has appealed to the Inspector General of the Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, for speedy investigations to resolve the cause of death of their kinsman. The family urged the police to collaborate with the National Investigation Bureau (NIB) to undertake a comprehensive investigation to bring to book any persons involved in Nana Yenhyiras death. In a statement issued and copied to the Daily Graphic last Thursday, the Head of the family, Nana Kwadwo Osei Mensah, said there was evidence that the Krontihene was brutalised under inhumane condition before his death. This can never be seen or believed to be an attack from someone who wanted to steal from his farm or rob him. His death is premeditated, well calculated and executed by certain people who do not see eye-to-eye with Akora Kwadwo (Nana Yenhyira), it said. The statement said the incident leading to the callous death of the former Krontihene of Goaso might be linked to the chieftaincy conflict which had been lingering for some time now and currently before the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. Nana Yenhyira was said to have petitioned the Asantehene concerning some chieftaincy issues in the traditional area. The statement said on the day the case was to be heard by the Asantehene, Nana Yenhyira died under bizarre circumstances at the Ayomso forest, where he had gone to farm on Wednesday, August 30, 2023. He did not return home, and so a search party was organised by both family and friends to look for him. The search continued into days, with series of announcements made on radio stations and information centres across the towns and communities around the Goaso Traditional Area and its environs. The statement said the family later received the news of the death of the former Krontihene after his lifeless body was found on his farm, a place the search party had searched several times when he went missing. Appeal to Asantehene Upon visiting the lifeless body, we saw him lying in a supine position with several marks of violence and blood all over his body, which we suspect foul play, the statement said. As a family, we do not want to take the law into our own hands, but a delay in investigations could push the family to conduct its own investigation; even if we could afford the services of private investigators, we shall do so. The family do not want to accuse anyone for now, but whoever did this thing to us should know that we are going to cast our nets wide in order to search for the needed information and present same to the police in their investigations, it added. The family also called on the Asantehene to continue with the case brought before him by our dear Nana Kwadwo Kumah Yenhyira as the family members have much interest in it, it said. Source: graphic.com.gh Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Former United States president Donald Trump has restated his conservative views on gender. Trump says God originally created two genders male and female in a swipe at the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ+) community. Whiles addressing a gathering over the weekend, the former president emphasized that if he is re-elected, he will take action to defeat what he called toxic poison of gender ideology. I will take historic action to defeat the toxic poison of gender ideology and reassert (that) in the beginning, God created two genders, male and female, he stated to cheers from the audience. Trump is known to have put in place policies that were seen as anti-LGBTQ+ during his time in office. Most of those policies have since been reversed by his successor, Joe Biden. In Ghana, there is currently a bill before parliament which aims to criminalize expressly the activities of people engaged in LGBTQ+ activities. Donald Trump : Dieu a cree deux genres... masculin et feminin. pic.twitter.com/QIQzYAbbIk LSI AFRICA (@lsiafrica) September 16, 2023 Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Chief Executive Officer of Ghana COCOBOD, Joseph Boahen Aidoo has delivered another good news to cocoa farmers in the country following President Nana Akufo-Addos increment in cocoa producer price per bag. The President announced a hike in cocoa price to GHC 1308 in the new cocoa season. This comes as a big relief to the farmers and is seen to be a major boost in cocoa productivity. To cement the joy of the farmers, the COCOBOD Chief Executive, in an interview with host Kwami Sefa Kayi on Peace FMs Kokrokoo show Monday morning, disclosed there will be further increase in cocoa price. He promised the cocoa farmers that the government of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo will move the Ghc1,308 per bag of cocoa to a far higher price that if they think the amount they are receiving this season is relieving, they should be even much glad because next year will be better. He explained that the increment during next years cocoa season will be as a result of the new price on the international market. "That 3,600 dollars, we are going to use it next year," he revealed. Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video STC Boss, Nana Akomea has asked former President John Mahama to apologize for saying the courts are packed with 'NPP judges'. The NDC flagbearer at the third annual lawyers conference of the NDC in Akosombo said: We know they [NPP] have packed the courts because they fear accountability when they leave office. We must be prepared as NDC lawyers to go to the bench to balance the current situation Nana Akomea speaking to this in a panel discussion on Peace FM's morning show 'Kokrokoo', said the former President's comment is "disgusting" and should apologise "because very soon people will be looking into the background of every judge..." Listen to him in the video below Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Government Spokesperson, Kofi Tonto, has advised the Electoral Commission (EC) to expand the district centers so as to encourage people to participate in the process. He noted it is very discouraging when the district offices of the Commission are too far from the people and they have to either spend huge money or travel long distances to go and register their names. "In some places, one will have to spend like close to 400 cedis just for transport fare if he or she wants to go and register. This is not encouraging. Expand the centers. Why don't you zone the areas to make it easily accessible to the people?", he said on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" show. Mr Tonto further appealed to his own political party, the New Patriotic Party and the opposition National Democratic Congress to quit playing politics with the ongoing limited registration by the EC but join forces to encourage every eligible Ghanaian to acquire his or her Ghana Card. According to him, the parties should focus their energies on educating and supporting Ghanaians who don't have Ghana Card. He supported the idea that Ghana Card should be the mode of identification for voting, so appealed to all political parties to ensure "every Ghanaian who has attained the age of 18 gets the Ghana Card". "I'm a staunch member of the NPP but for Ghana to collapse, I will choose Ghana over NPP", he charged his colleague politicians, stressing the Ghana Card is the turning point for the nation. Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Deputy General Secretary of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Haruna Mohammed, has described the public apology of the Member of Parliament (MP) for Dome-Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo, as a sign of maturity. To him, it was an indication that the action will impact positively on the image of the NPP. He has, therefore, urged all party members to accept Adowa Safo's apology in good faith. Adwoa Safo on Thursday, September 14, 2023, rendered an unqualified apology to the leadership of the NPP, particularly President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the Chief of Staff, Madam Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, Majority Leader and other party bigwigs over her actions in the recent past. The Dome-Kwabenya MP in a video explained that her long absence in Parliament was due to some challenges she faced in her life, including family issues. Adwoa Safo in her long absence in Parliament was dragged to the Privileges Committee of Parliament in 2022. Some NPP members even wanted her seat to be declared vacant. In what appeared to be a banter between the Dome-Kwabenya MP and her party, the MP occasionally came online through live videos to defend her actions. However, in her apology video, Adwoa Safo urged the party's leadership, including the party members, particularly those in her constituency to forgive her actions. I would like to use this opportunity to apologise to my New Patriotic Party members, the leadership. Firstly to the President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, our mother, the Chief of Staff Hon. Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, Majority Leader Osei Kyei- Mensah Bonsu and the entire leadership of Parliament, my colleague MPs, Majority caucus. I would like to apologise to all of you for my behaviour sometime back. I would like to say that it wasnt intended or planned to disrespect you all. I was faced with so many personal and family issues. I would like to plead with you in the name of the Lord, my regional executives, Greater Accra, constituency executives, the headquarters of NPP, the General Secretary and National Chairman and all your workers. I beg all of you, supporters, and sympathisers, who love the party and loved me and have faith in the constituency, please forgive me for all that has happened. I would like to use this opportunity to apologise to my New Patriotic Party members, the leadership. Firstly to the President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, our mother, the Chief of Staff Hon. Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, Majority Leader Osei Kyei- Mensah Bonsu and the entire leadership of Parliament, my colleague MPs, Majority caucus. The NPP Deputy General Secretary in his reaction to the MP's apology in a radio interview on Accra-based Citi FM on Friday, September 15, 2023, welcomed the apology and urged everyone to forgive her. Source: graphic.com.gh Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video National Organizer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Henry Nana Boakye (Nana B) says claims by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) that the Electoral Commission (EC) will disentrance qualified voters in the ongoing Limited Voter Registration is fat lie. He said on NEAT FMs morning show, 'Ghana Montie' that the process is going on smoothly and that no one will be disenfranchised. His comment comes after the NDC flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama issued a statement to the effect. North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has also raised issues that qualified voters in the constituency are facing difficulties to register. But Nana B, who disagrees with them said they are just playing political games to discredit the process. Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/peacefmonline.com/ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Chief Executive Officer of COCOBOD, Joseph Boahen Aidoo has fired salvoes at the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) over their criticisms on the new price of cocoa announced by President Nana Akufo-Addo. The President brought joy to many cocoa farmers as he mentioned his government will be increasing the producer price per bag of cocoa to GHC1,308 which is a major boost on the price the farmers were initially selling their beans for. However, the National Democratic Congress has passed dissenting views on the price. They claim they would have done better than the Akufo-Addo administration if they were in government. As we speak now, cocoa prices have seen the biggest increment since 1977, so it is your season to make a profit. If NDC were to be in government, we would have a bag of cocoa at GH2,500 and add a premium of GH300. So you would have received GH2,800 per bag, Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson said at a conference with cocoa farmers at Dadiesoaba in the Ahafo Region. But in an interview on Peace FMs Kokrokoo show Monday morning, Mr. Boahen Aidoo deflated the arguments by the opposition party. According to him, the NDC is only deceiving the farmers by throwing unsubstantiated figures out in public. He explained there is no way the NDC can increase cocoa price between 2,500 to 2,800 cedis since the price for selling cocoa on the market is pegged at 3,600 dollars and by his calculations, the amounts quoted by the opposition is outrageously unrealistic. This is a practical joke, he challenged the NDCs figures. Setting the record straight, the COCOBOD Chief Executive expounded that cocoa price on the international market stands at 3,600 dollars, therefore multiplying and dividing the amount by the tons of cocoa for which the NDC claims they would give the farmers over 2,500 cedis per bag is not possible. He also stated forward sales is the determining factor for the price of cocoa, so, realistically, the price given by the President is far reasonable. He further promised an even better price next year, stating "we are going to use it (the 3600 dollars) next year" to calculate the price of cocoa for the farmers, hence "there will be further increase in the price". Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. The use of electronic warfare systems illegally deployed in the sovereign territories of Azerbaijan is of particular concern, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said at a briefing for the diplomatic corps accredited in the Republic of Azerbaijan, Trend reports. According to the ministry, the use of electronic warfare systems illegally deployed in the sovereign territories of Azerbaijan is of particular concern. Azerbaijan Airlines civil airlines, as well as airlines of foreign countries, have been exposed to electronic interference over the past few months, including July 13, July 24, July 27, August 21, and September 1. These interventions pose a serious threat to the safety of people and air traffic. The International Civil Aviation Organization, as well as the peacekeeping contingent of Russia were informed about these threatening actions," said the ministry. Philadelphia residents are reeling after six people were killed in shootings in one weekend. 6ABC reported that a resident in the area of one of the shootings said, Every corner you turn, theres violence. Its so bad out here. It makes you scared to walk and just do anything for people. 6ABC reported there were at least nine shootings, while Fox29 reported there were at least eight. Fox29 reported the weekend deaths included: A 54-year-old man Saturday morning in East Germantown A 33-year-old man Saturday in North Philadelphia A 45-year-old woman Saturday in East Germantown A 26-year-old man Saturday in West Oak Two men, Sunday in Ogontz, a neighborhood in Philadelphia Both news outlets reported that detectives are investigating the shootings. ABC6 said no arrests have been made. Fox29 also reported that the first shooting of the weekend involved a 37-year-old man who was shot in the hand very early Saturday morning. Also Saturday, a 14-year-old boy was injured after someone shot more than two dozen bullets at a home in Germantown. READ MORE: DEA releases thermal imaging video of Cavalcante capture A 20-year-old man was stabbed multiple times inside a Philadelphia grocery store on Sunday. The incident occurred just after 10 a.m. at the Acme located along the 300 block of South 5th Street in the citys Society Hill neighborhood, 6ABC reported. Police said the man had suffered stab wounds to his shoulder, hand and arm. The victim was taken to a hospital and is in stable condition. No arrests have been made yet, and police do not have a motive, Fox29 said. A woman who had been accused of killing her husband has been found guilty of first-degree murder and tampering with physical evidence. After an hour and a half of deliberations, a jury came to the verdict Friday afternoon, convicting the 76-year-old Nancy Focht on first- and third-degree murder and voluntary manslaughter charges in the death of 74-year-old David Focht Sr., the Altoona Mirror reported. She is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 27. Focht, 75, shot her husband in a shed on their property in Bedford County after the two had an argument on Sept. 11, 2018. Focht testified in her own defense on Friday and detailed decades of abuse that she said began shortly after she became pregnant with their first child in 1966. She testified that her husband had a temper and claimed that there were gun threats, including an incident where she woke up to her husband pointing a gun behind her ear, saying that if she ever thought of leaving him, hed kill her. Focht claimed that her husband had served in Vietnam and that he told her that he was trained to kill in multiple ways and, no one would know. He said he could shoot me from any window in the house, Focht said during her testimony. I dont know how to explain always being afraid for my life. Focht claimed she also suffered from mental abuse, and wasnt allowed to leave the property even though the couple owned two vehicles. She also claimed she had filed for a protection-from-abuse order against him in the past. The argument that occurred on Sept. 11 stemmed from mowing, but turned into a fight over medical bills. At some point, she decided to get a gun out of fear because she had asked him to leave but he refused. During the argument, she claimed David Focht removed his wedding ring, telling her, Next time I put that on is when youre in your casket. She sat in a chair in their shed with the gun beside her and when he saw the pistol, he approached her with his hands up. After firing a warning shot, she fired again, hitting her husband, the Mirror reported. She also claimed there was a struggle over the gun during the argument, and thats when it went off, WJAC reported. The autopsy report revealed no gunshot residue was found on her husbands clothes, which conflicts with her claims that he was shot at close range. As previously reported, during an interview with state police, Focht admitted to grabbing a gun and fatally shooting her husband, twice, inside the shed. She was charged in January 2019. Read more via Altoona Mirror. Read More: Dunkin is percolating up another central Pennsylvania stop. One of the coffee and doughnut restaurants is en route to 315 Bretz Court in Newport, Perry County, where a groundbreaking is scheduled for noon Tuesday. It will be the only Dunkin in operation in Perry County, and will be located next to Burger King and McDonalds as well as upcoming AutoZone in Howe Township. Inside, its designed to flow really well for customers, said Dalsher Nagra, one of the partners. His family owns Penn Holding Group, which operates another Dunkin at 370 Allen Road in Carlisle. The new restaurant will follow Dunkins Next Gen format with a modern color scheme, equipment upgrades, coffee taps and drive-thru lanes. It will open in partnership with a 24-hour Sunoco gas station/convenience store. Its a good combination. It helps us serve customers with both their fuel needs and food needs, especially with Newport being such a commuter area, Nagra said. The restaurant is expected to open by the end of the year. READ MORE: If youre concerned someone might be considering suicide, dont hesitate to ask them about it. Dont worry it will increase the chances theyll commit suicide. The exact opposite is true, according to a succession of speakers who assembled at the state Capitol on Monday to stress that Pennsylvania is deeply committed to supplying the help needed to prevent suicide, which killed about 1,000 Pennsylvanians in 2021. Research shows that acknowledging and talking about suicide lets people know you care about them, said Dr. Debra Bogen, the acting state secretary of health. Bogen told how her father quietly began planning suicide after entering his 70s, and inquires led to him acknowledging it and eventually recovering from his depression. Bogen and others stressed that talking to someone in crisis conveys they are not alone and is often the first step toward getting help. They further advised people to listen compassionately and without judgment and to remain involved with the person. Your physical and emotional presence in a persons life makes a difference, said Dr. Val Arkoosh, the state Secretary of Human Services. Arkoosh said Gov. Josh Shapiro is committed to addressing shortages in the availability of mental health care, with his 2023-2024 budget including $20 million to improve mental health services available through Pennsylvania counties. Mondays event included officials of state departments and organizations focused on the elderly, farmers and military veterans all groups deemed at higher risk of suicide. Army veteran James Stafford recounted being stricken with anxiety and depression that wore on him over a period of several years and led to suicidal thoughts. The 42-year-old Lancaster County resident said he always viewed himself as outgoing and emotionally strong, and it took him a long time to acknowledge to himself he was considering suicide. He said he went through a two-year period in which he stopped talking to people. Eventually, with support from a military chaplain, he sought help in a veterans hospital emergency room, resulting in therapy, medication and other help that restored his life. He now works for the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veteran Affairs, helping veterans who are in crisis. Speakers on Monday urged people having suicidal thoughts to call the 988 hotline for suicide prevention. The hotline connects people to trained counselors as well as to local mental health resources. Demand for mental health care has soared in recent years, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, theres a shortage of mental health professionals and other resources, which has resulted in months-long waiting lists. However, Arkoosh expressed confidence that sufficient help is available through the 988 hotline, and said it continues to grow and expand. She said there are several call centers around the state, with agreements to shift overflow calls to surrounding centers. She said the vast majority of calls to the center are resolved during the call, with people obtaining the needed resources and going in a good direction. She also cited the availability of local crisis teams and local police for people who need immediate intervention. She further said the state continually monitors call center statistics and is working every day to make sure the system is as robust as possible. READ MORE FROM PENNLIVE: Pa. residents in mental health crisis wait months, or longer, for help Donald Trump is facing new blowback from anti-abortion activists for refusing to commit to national abortion restrictions and for calling Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signing of a six-week ban on the procedure a terrible mistake. Speaking Sunday on NBCs Meet the Press, Trump repeatedly declined to say whether he would support a federal ban on abortion. He said he could live with the procedure being banned by individual states or nationwide through federal action, though he said from a legal standpoint, I think its probably better to be handled at the state level. Regarding the bill signed by DeSantis, which bans abortions before many women know they are pregnant, Trump said, I think what he did is a terrible thing and a terrible mistake. So far, the former president has dominated the 2024 field while at times spurning the anti-abortion groups that traditionally have huge influence in Republican primaries. But Trumps direct attack on DeSantis, whom hes long treated as his chief rival, could give the Florida governor new fodder as he tries to regain momentum in his campaign and solidify his second-place standing. Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, DeSantis campaign spokesman Bryan Griffin wrote of Trump: If you want to appease Democrats, heres your guy. If you want to defeat the Democrats in 2024, (DeSantis) is the only choice. Another campaign spokesman, Andrew Romeo, distributed to reporters a roundup of conservative groups criticizing Trump and accused him of repeatedly compromising with Democrats. Republicans across the country know that Ron DeSantis will never back down, Romeo said. The countrys largest anti-abortion organization, which backs a national ban on abortions at 15 weeks of pregnancy, quickly released a statement saying anything less restrictive makes no sense. Were at a moment where we need a human rights advocate, someone who is dedicated to saving the lives of children and serving mothers in need. Every single candidate should be clear on how they plan to do that, said Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America. Republican presidential candidate Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks at the Iowa Faith & Freedom Coalition's fall banquet, Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, in Des Moines, Iowa. (AP Photo/Bryon Houlgrave)AP The Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v. Wade left the decision of whether and how to restrict abortion to the states, creating a patchwork of laws across the country, with most Republican-led states imposing new restrictions and states led by Democrats passing protections. Twenty-five million women of childbearing age now live in states where abortions are more difficult to get than before the ruling. Trump has approached abortion from a political stance, saying that the Supreme Courts decision gave conservatives room to negotiate new restrictions. He has argued Republicans push for abortion restrictions hurt the GOP in the 2022 midterm elections and that GOP candidates need to do a better job of explaining the issue. Banning abortion at six weeks of pregnancy, as Florida enacted earlier this year, is unpopular with the U.S. public, according to an Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research conducted in June. The poll found that 73% of all U.S. adults believe abortion should be allowed up to six weeks of pregnancy, which is when cardiac activity in a fetus may be detected and before women often know theyre pregnant. About half of Americans say abortions should be permitted up to 15 weeks. In that poll, 56% of Republicans said abortion should be allowed in their state up to 6 weeks and 29% supported making the procedure legal up to 15 weeks. But in Iowas first-in-the-nation Republican caucuses, evangelicals and other social conservatives who strongly oppose abortion make up the majority of those who participate and decide the winner. Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds this summer signed an abortion ban similar to Floridas. Reynolds has not endorsed a candidate. Trump has called himself the the most pro-life president in American history and noted that three of his Supreme Court picks formed part of the conservative majority that overturned Roe. He has so far declined to go along with some of his rivals, including his onetime vice president, Mike Pence, who is pushing for national bans that would take effect relatively early in a pregnancy. Interviews with GOP voters and activists over the past several months suggest a split between people satisfied with Trumps record during his term and others who want Trump to endorse a national abortion ban. Some Republicans in some key states, including those backing his rivals, expressed displeasure after the interview. Among them was South Carolina state Rep. John McCravy, who sponsored the most recent, restrictive abortion measure, which bans the practice in his state after around six weeks of pregnancy. South Carolina will be among the early states to choose a nominee. McCravy described himself in an interview as certainly disappointed. It sounded completely out of step with his staunch support for life while he was president, he said. McCravy has endorsed South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott in the 2024 GOP presidential primary but told AP last week, Trump would probably be a close second, noting his Supreme Court appointments and his attending the March for Life rally in Washington. Kristen Waggoner, CEO of the conservative legal organization Alliance Defending Freedom, also took issue. Laws protecting the unborn are not a terrible mistake. They are the hallmark of a just and moral society, she wrote on X. Governors who protect life should be applauded, not attacked. MORGANTOWN, Pa (AP) Nine juveniles who escaped from a detention center in Pennsylvania and were at large for less than a day have been captured, state police said Monday. All will be charged with escape and some may face other charges. Were going to interview all nine of them, said Pennsylvania State Police Trooper David Beohm. I know theres stuff in the works right now to decide where they are going to go after that takes place. The escapees were between 15 and 17 years old, reported ABC6 News in Philadelphia. Seven of them are from Dauphin County, one is from Berks County and one is from York County. Beohm further specified that the seven from Dauphin County are from Harrisburg. Beohm said the first four were taken into custody shortly before 6 a.m. after they went to a residence and knocked on the door. They turned themselves in because they were cold and tired, Beohm said. The other five were captured after police received a report of a stolen vehicle and a sort of pursuit took place, Beohm said. Four youths were taken into custody from the vehicle and a fifth, who took off on foot, was caught in a field a short time later. State and local police were called late Sunday to take control of the juvenile center in Morgantown, about 49 miles northwest of Philadelphia. Beohm said the escape happened after the juveniles wrested the keys away from two staff members. Abraxas Academy is a secure residential treatment program providing specialized care for delinquent male youth between the ages of 14 to 18 in 9th grade or above, according to the facilitys website. The escape follows the capture of an escaped murderer who eluded Pennsylvania authorities for several days despite an extended manhunt. But Beohm said the teenagers likely didnt have the desperation or motivation of someone like Danelo Souza Cavalcante, who escaped from a Pennsylvania jail and eluded law enforcement for two weeks before his capture on Sept. 13. I figured wed catch these kids because they are not as resilient as Cavalacante, Beohm said at a press conference. The convicted murderer escaped from the Chester County jail in southeastern Pennsylvania on Aug. 31 by crab-walking up between two walls that were topped with razor wire, then jumping from the roof. More from PennLive: Daycare owner, neighbor charged after child fatally overdoses and 3 others are revived with narcan DEA releases thermal imaging video of Cavalcante capture Central Pa. woman charged with vehicular homicide, overtaking school bus: police UPDATE: Cumberland County driver killed in Route 581 crash IDd A 28-year-old man was killed Sunday when he crashed into a tow truck that was slowing down to pass another crash scene on Route 581 in Cumberland County, authorities said. The Carlisle man, whose name has not been released, was driving a sedan east on Route 581 near the Route 15 interchange when he crashed into a tow truck in the right lane around 9:16 p.m., according to Pennsylvania State Police. The tow truck was preparing to pass another crash scene at the time it was hit. The tow truck which was struck was not involved with the initial crash and was believed to be slowing down in order to pass the scene at a safe speed, state police said in a Monday news release. State police said the 28-year-old sedan driver was pronounced dead at the scene. His two passengers a 26-year-old Carlisle woman and a 32-year-old Mechanicsburg woman were taken to Penn State Holy Spirit Hospital with serious injuries. The tow truck driver was evaluated at the scene for injuries, state police said. PennDOT spokeswoman Fritzi Schreffler said the crash the tow truck driver was trying to pass happened around 9 p.m. Sunday and involved two passenger vehicles, near the Route 581 581 east on-ramp from Route 15. The two crashes shut Route 581 down for several hours Sunday near exit 5 to Routes 11/15 north toward Camp Hill, PennDOT said. Route 581 has reopened as of Monday morning. READ MORE: Pedestrian fatally struck by car in Perry County Central Pa. woman charged with vehicular homicide, overtaking school bus: police To mark Hispanic Heritage Month - Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 - PennLive is showcasing residents from central Pennsylvania who represent the thriving and dynamic Latino community in the region. Educators, elected officials, social advocates, business entrepreneurs, artists and writers, the men and women featured, embody the contributions of Latinos and the cultural legacy that informs their work and identity. Whether we use Hispanic or Latino, both terms convey the diverse cultural and ethnic community that claims ancestry from about two dozen countries - and one territory - including Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Spain. Pennsylvanias Latino community has seen explosive growth in recent years. In fact, the growth of the Latino community in Pennsylvania between 2010 and 2020 far outpaced that of the whole state and offset declines in population of other groups. U.S. Census numbers show that Pennsylvanias population grew 2.4% in that time frame; while its Latino population grew 45.8%. The Pew Research Center found that of the 12 states with at least 1 million Hispanics, Pennsylvania saw the fastest Latino population growth during the last decade. Our profiles represent just a sliver of the myriad strands that make up the fabric of Latino community and its contribution to Pennsylvania. We asked our subjects how being Latino influences their life and the work they do. David Ramon Zayas - victims advocate with the county, and gifted actor at Gamut Theatre in Harrisburg, Pa., Aug. 16, 2023. Mark Pynes | pennlive.comMark Pynes | mpynes@pennlive.com David Ramon Zayas David Ramon Zayas is a theater artist specializing in playwriting, directing, acting, singing, and vocal music composition. Among his locally staged plays are: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, BEOWULF, and Curse of the Werewolf. He is a co-founder of the Choose Your Own Play production company, which creates pieces of game-theatre, featuring multiple endings, life-or-death stakes, and live audience voting. His play, I Dont Speak Spanish, which chronicles the loss of the Spanish language in a Mexican-American family line over a hundred years and five generations, is premiering at Gamut Theatre in October. He is a member of the Dramatists Guild, Latino Playwrights Circle, and Latino Hispanic Professional Association. Outside of the theater, he works as an advocate for victims of crime, including domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse--a calling that informs his writing. He lives in Harrisburg with his husband and their pets. How does being a Latino influence your life and the work you do? Like many others, I have a tricky relationship with my latinidad [attributes shared by Latino people]. Growing up in southeast Michigan, being Latine was something that set our family apart from our majority-white community. It was foundational in my identity and a source of internal pride, but it was also a point of difference rather than connection. I am Latino, therefore I am not x, never, I am Latino, therefore I am x. In our family, Spanish had already been sacrificed before I was born in the name of safety, in the hopes of prosperity for generations to come. So whenever I was faced with that familiar question, Youre Latino? Oh, do you speak Spanish? I couldnt help but feel less than, like not fully what I claimed to be. Accessing my heritage felt like returning to a home with the locks changed, only able to peek at my histories through the frosted windows. It wasnt until well into my adulthood, when my brother expressed that same feeling to me, that I realized I wasnt alone in this way. In research and interviews for my play, I Dont Speak Spanish, I heard from countless others who knew these feelings. I read the works of Latine poets and philosophers like Gloria Anzaldua and Octavio Paz, only to learn that we have been grappling with these feelings for hundreds of years, and that in telling this story, I am actually living that heritage I felt so disconnected from for most of my life. A sadness I still carry is that I spent so many years avoiding Latine stories precisely because I was afraid they werent for me, that I didnt deserve to see myself within those pages. But had I picked them up sooner, I would have felt how my ancestors blood still flows through my veins, I would have heard the turning of the key in that door of lost histories. It is vital to me that my work be work that heals others the way I have been healed in creating it. Ricardo Almodovar is an environmental justice coordinator with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. August 17, 2023. Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com Ricardo Almodovar Lancaster native Ricardo Almodovar is a community organizer and social justice activist who has focused his work on public policy, language access, voting rights and environmental justice. Almodovar has worked extensively with the LGBTQ+, Latinx, and immigrant communities, aptly addressing the needs of marginalized communities with collective action to solve problems. He is currently the Environmental Justice Coordinator in the Office of Environmental Justice at the state Department of Environmental Protection. How does being a Latino influence your life and the work you do? Being Latino is like having a powerful compass that guides my work. Its not just about where I come from nor what language I speak, but also how I see the world. When Im tackling issues like environmental justice, voter suppression, or LGBTQ+ rights I am honoring the earth and my ancestors as an extension of our heritage preserving what was entrusted to us. Our culture thrives on love, compassion, and taking action because the real magic happens when we confront oppression. As Latinos, weve faced our share of battles, so fighting against systems of oppression is personal to me because I have felt the sting of homophobia and racism. Its about rewriting a narrative of strength, resilience, and authenticity. My Latino identity isnt just a chapter in my life its the driving force behind every page of my story. Melissa Mesones is the city of Harrisburgs deputy director of communications. August 17, 2023. Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com Melissa Mesones As Harrisburgs deputy director of communications, Melissa Mesones oversees communications with Latino residents who often face language and cultural barriers in engaging with and accessing local government. Originally from Lima, Peru, she studied translation and interpretation of foreign languages at Cesar Vallejo University, which allowed her to travel to the United States as an exchange student. Mesones also studied chemistry at the National University of San Marcos. Her involvement in the community began when she served as a case manager for the Latino Hispanic American Community Center while also attending Harrisburg Area Community College, where she later received her bachelors degree in human services. She recently obtained her masters in strategic leadership from Elizabethtown College, which allowed her to continue providing services to the community. How does being a Latino influence your life and the work you do? I never thought being born in a Hispanic country would impact my professional career. I took for granted my mother language and my culture until I went to college and studied translation and interpretation of foreign languages (English, French, and Spanish), which made me realize how vital language, ethnicity, and culture are in opening doors abroad. My Hispanic heritage makes me more empathetic with others coming to the U.S. and facing language and culture barriers. It is why Im committed to the community to facilitate multilingual services and ease the process of cultural assimilation. Working at the City of Harrisburg allowed me to provide services to the Hispanic community by helping with filling out documents, translating flyers, interpreting complaints, and establishing relationships between the City of Harrisburg authorities and residents. As a mom raising a 9-year-old daughter is crucial for me that my child understands the importance of our Hispanic heritage as a part of her identity and future professional development. I explained to her that being Hispanic is to embrace our ancient roots learned back at home and contribute to society by communicating, educating, and enhancing others to succeed. Read more Hispanic Heritage Month voices: Hispanic Heritage Month voices: Frontline professionals are passionate about their missions. Hispanic Heritage Month voices: Guiding lifes work through generosity of spirit Latino proud: Hispanic Heritage Month in Pa. celebrates a diverse cultural legacy Hispanic Heritage month voices: Promoting cuisine and culture Ten weeks after the Pennsylvania House deadlocked on funding the commonwealths four state-related universities, a path forward is still not certain, the bodys top Republican indicated Monday. House Republican Leader Bryan Cutler, R-Lancaster County, speaking at a Pennsylvania Press Club luncheon, said his caucus has made our position clear on what needs to happen for a funding deal to get GOP support, but that Ive not seen any movement to date on the outstanding budget item. The House is scheduled to return to session next week, although the 203-member body will be split 101-101 between Republicans and Democrats. A special election to fill the vacant seat, in heavily Democratic Allegheny County, will be held Tuesday, although certification of the results and the seating of a new member is not expected to occur until the end of the month at the earliest. Funding for Pennsylvanias four independent but state-subsidized universities Penn State, Pitt, Lincoln, and Temple is one area where House Republicans still hold sway, even assuming they remain in the minority. Pennsylvanias constitution requires that appropriations to charities and educational institutions that are not directly state-controlled receive a two-thirds vote, or 136 members. The House took several votes earlier this year on bills to fund the four schools, both separately and as a package. Only Lincolns appropriation cleared the two-thirds threshold, with Cutler noting that it was the only school to have guaranteed it would not hike tuition, one of the concessions Republicans were seeking for approving the funding. The last vote taken on a bill to fund all four schools failed by six votes in early July, with House Republican leadership voting against it. The GOP-controlled state Senate has not taken up the issue following the House stalemate, leading the universities to begin the school year without state assistance in place. Under the last bill, Penn State would receive about $288 million, Pitt $166 million, Temple $169 million, and Lincoln $19 million - representing a roughly 7% increase in state support for the former three, and a 25% boost for Lincoln. Those funds must be used for costs directly related to instruction and student services. In addition to the schools freezing tuition, Cutler also said Republicans were seeking tighter right-to-know law requirements on the state-related universities, as well as evening out the amount of per-student aid to each school. The threshold to amend the bill, if theres an agreement, is two-thirds, just like the vote requirement to pass it, so it would be my hope that we can get those items included, Cutler said Monday. Asked if that could happen when the House returns next week, Cutler said youd have to ask the leader, that being Cutlers Democratic counterpart, Rep. Matt Bradford, D-Montgomery County. In July, however, Bradford and other Democrats had voiced concern that many Republican members were voting against the funding because of political issues objecting to universities research relating to abortion, for example and that there may not be sufficient Republican support even if the fiscal fairness and transparency concerns raised by Cutler were worked out. Cutler on Monday stressed the three issues he had outlined were the ones driving the discussion, and played down concerns about some of his caucus culture warriors. Everybody tends to focus on those other issues, but its really those three that are driving that debate, Cutler said. Of the cultural politics, some people may use that politically outside the building, but I think that a solution is obtainable, Cutler continued. Cutler also voiced optimism that next weeks session with an evenly divided House would be a chance for bipartisanship, and that were open to finding ways through the gridlock, but it cannot be a one-ways street. Believe it or not, our policy differences actually arent that far apart, and that is why I have hope, Cutler said. Although Gov. Josh Shapiro signed the states general appropriations bill in August, the 2023-24 budget is not fully complete, with changes needed to the states fiscal code in order to direct how the appropriated funds are to flow out. The GOP-controlled state Senate passed two fiscal code bills Aug. 30, one which included some more controversial measures such as a school voucher plan that Democrats have opposed -and one which Senate Republicans said they believed may have more bipartisan support, although only two Senate Democrats supported it. House Democrats could sidestep Cutler by waiting until they have a 102-member majority to act on the fiscal code or any other contentious matters. Tuesdays special election is to fill an Allegheny County seat vacated by former Rep. Sara Innamorato, who resigned in anticipation of winning her race for Allegheny County Executive. Democrats are favored to retain the seat. Following the funding bills failure in July, Pitt and Penn State announced tuition rates that included 2% increases for in-state students at their main campuses; Temples average in-state tuition went up around 4%, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer. Pennsylvanias public funding for higher education remains below par nationally, according to data from the Urban Institute, with proportionally high tuition rates even for in-state students. However, as Spotlight PA recently highlighted, state-related universities use of public dollars remains largely opaque due to limited disclosure requirements. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Minister of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Colonel-General Zakir Hasanov, met with a delegation headed by the Director General of the Ministry of Defense of Israel Eyal Zamir, who is on an official visit to the country, the Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan told Trend. Hasanov expressed satisfaction with the current high level of Azerbaijani-Israeli relations. Expressing gratitude for the warm welcome, Zamir stressed the importance of such meetings and mutual visits in terms of further expansion of existing cooperation. In addition, Azerbaijan and Israel exchanged views on defense cooperation at the meeting. By Deborah Kalina Do the voters of Southern York County School District want to elect a school board that is set on tearing it down? I ask this question having recently read in the local paper that Susquehannock High School ranks No. 2 in York County, 64 in Pennsylvania, and 1,718 in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Reports annual ranking of best high schools in the country. The scoring factors in things like college readiness, state assessment proficiency, underserved student performance, and graduation rate. Yet an ultra conservative coalition of five school board candidates, draped in the banner of parental rights, would have you believe that SYCSD is culturally bankrupt, failing students, and fiscally a mess and in need of their intervention. Using a national playbook unfolding in districts like SYC nationwide, this coalition has spelled out what it plans to do in a platform that reads like a far-right manifesto. Most egregious, these candidates made pledges to groups for campaign donations and endorsements to enact discriminatory policies that will limit access to resources and speech in public schools, as well as purge the superintendant, solicitor and any school employee not aligned with their goals. It was everything, everywhere, all at once, former Sarasota school board chair Jane Goodwin told Vanity Fair in May about what happened in her district. Since last November, she said the new board has systemically dismantled everything. By the way, Sarasotas schools historically ranked tops in Florida. But the dizzying number of attacks, the report says, has led to staffing and hiring challenges, cancelation of classes, and a growing exodus from the community. Expect the same in SYC, woke audits of the curriculum, book bans, and the sanitizing of the history taught. The coalition is supported by the 1776 Project and eager to introduce more conservative interpretations of history. You know, like the benefits of slavery for slaves. Sloppy and slanted, not one professional historian was consulted in the writing of the 1776 Project. Education culture wars have become the engine of Republican politics nationwide, tied to every race up government, as state legislators like Senator Kristin Phillips Hill and Representative Mike Jones, and US Congressman Lloyd Smucker reflect in their endorsements of these extreme partisan candidates. These legislators support expanding education vouchers that siphon money from pubic schools, with the end game of privatizing the public education system. As happened in Sarasota, ideologically aligned members filled the school board of the small mountain town of Woodland Park, Colo., and in short order they forced out the superintendent; approved the communitys first charter school without public notice, giving it a third of the middle school building; and rejected grants that would retain mental health workers, as well as opted out of free student access to mental health services. By the way, the interim superintendent of the district operates Education ReEnvisioned charter schools. Woodland Park is also the first district in the country to adopt the American Birthright social studies standard. The National Council for the Social Studies does not endorse this, stating: If implemented in schools, these suggested standards would have damaging and lasting effects on the civic knowledge of students and their capacity to engage in civic reasoning and deliberation. Despite receiving an 8% pay raise, Woodland Park school employees are headed for the exit. Nearly 40% of the high schools professional staff said they wouldnt return next school year. This is an active case study on what will happen if extremist policies take over our public education system, David Graf, an English teacher who resigned after 17 years, told NBC News in May. I share these examples foreshadowing what awaits SYCSD if the five politically zealous candidates win the election Nov. 7. Their success would create a seven-member ideological majority, of which four of the directors would be married couples from two households. As Liv Coleman, a political science professor at the University of Tampa told Vanity Fair regarding whats happening in Sarasota, Sometimes things have to break before people really pay attention. Do voters want that for Southern York County School District? Voters who would rather build on the districts success than break it have a clear choice Nov. 7, and I ask they vote for Elizabeth Arpin, Danielle Weaver-Watts (current director), Amy Hall, and Charles Fallin who represent both major political parties and write in Kelly Jarvis (current director, and Independent) to fill the five open seats. These candidates, all parents and taxpayers in the district, reflect different perspectives and experiences, and most importantly have not pledged their decisions to a political party, PAC or agenda. Instead, they plan to focus on how to strengthen public education and support students success and wellbeing, including addressing shortages of teachers, counselors and social workers. Please pay attention to this years school board election, or you may find everything, everywhere, all at once has been dismantled in the district you love. Deborah Kalina served as director of the Southern York County School board from 2017-2021. By Shamaine Daniels Recent news regarding Scott Perry and his role in Trumps post-election insurrectionist circus has come as no surprise to his constituents in PA-10. Perrys self-serving politics, punctuated by tantrum-like outbursts when anyone dares to call him out, have been his hallmark throughout his career. In the wake of the 2020 election, Perry took it to a new level when he teamed up with Jim Jordan in an attempt to bully and terrorize Pennsylvania voters into giving up their voice to serve his own agenda. But through those actions, Perry showed voters in PA-10, and across the country, who he really is and who he has always been. Either by the courts, the voters, or both, Scott Perry must be held accountable for his role in trying to overturn the election, but we need to remember that there is so much more for which he needs to answer. Scott Perrys policies and agenda make life harder for regular people across the country, including those he was elected to represent in PA-10. Like the rest of Perrys constituents, I have to earn aliving to support my family. Im also a parent, who worries about my daughters future, and her safetyand security here and now. Scott Perry does nothing to make life better or easier for the rest of us,and in many cases he makes life harder. Recently, Perrys abject failure to meet his obligations to all of us was driven home for me when, before heading off to a day of continuing legal education classes (CLEs), I dropped my daughter off at her daycare, only to be met by a man dressed in a security uniform outside of the Jewish daycare center. I didnt know if the center received anti-Semitic threats from extremists and the hate groups that have been emboldened by Perry, or whether they had intel on a regular run-of-the mill mass shooting, which Scott Perry refuses to do anything about. I remember feeling so relieved that this center, whose job it is to nurture young children, was prepared to handle anti-Semites and mass shooters - what a terrible thing in which to find relief! My disappointment didnt stop there that day. I went to my all-day CLE and during breaks, younger lawyers, like me, were scrambling to manage childcare. One attorney was splitting the day with his wife so he could take some credits and she could work, and they were trying to figure things out on a minute by minute basis. Affordable childcare is sparse in Central PA, leaving working families in the lurch again and again. What has Scott Perry done to help working families needing childcare? Nothing. I imagine Perry doesnt care about this problem because, as he is fond of reminding us, since he doesnt plan to have any more kids, he just doesnt care. So as we learn more and more about the ways in which the dangerous Stooges that support Trump were involved in one of Americas darkest moments, we cant forget that he has a responsibility toserve his constituents as well. Central Pennsylvania deserves better and we can only get better byelecting candidates who understand what better means. Shamaine Daniels is a member of the Harrisburg City Council and a candidate for Congress from Pennslylvanias 10th Congressonal District. By Earl Baker Steel and strength are two words that often go together. But while often used in the context of its properties as a building material steel is roughly 1,000 times stronger than raw iron the strength that steel provides goes much deeper than just its physical traits. The history of steel in America also demonstrates how our nation has been made stronger, both in economic and national security terms, from the existence of the industry. And few states are as intertwined with the fate of the steel industry as Pennsylvania. At one point Pittsburgh alone produced more than 60% of the total steel made in America, and the industry still plays an important role in local economies today. In 1969, American steel production peaked when the country produced 141,262,000 tons but since then, the industry has been under siege. An onslaught of cheap foreign steel in the 1970s lead to a major industry contraction and a further series of high-profile acquisitions in recent years has left only a handful of major steel manufacturers in the United States. It is therefore important that regulators both in Harrisburg and Washington take steps to maintain a strong and healthy domestic steel industry in the face of such critical threats. An unsolicited offer in July 2023 from Cleveland Cliffs to purchase Pittsburgh-based U.S. Steel has now kicked another round of discussions about reorganization within the steel industry, but regulators should be cautious about allowing further consolidation. The wrong deal could create unprecedented consolidation in the American steel industry, jeopardize workers, and harm consumers. The proposed deal would join the two-largest steel manufacturers in the United States, presenting them with control of 100% of American iron ore deposits and electrical steel manufacturing. A combined U.S. Steel and Cleveland Cliffs would also provide well over 50% of the steel sold to the American auto industry, raising trepidation in auto purchasing circles about what such market power would do to prices of inputs. Some analysts fear that such a merger could also be part of a broader strategy to corner steel production in the American market and raise prices. Counter to broader industry trends towards cheaper electric arc furnaces, Cleveland Cliffs has made blast furnaces a hallmark of its corporate strategy. But blast furnaces are more expensive to run and reporting from Reuters suggests that the only way to compensate this cost is for Cleveland Cliffs to obtain a dominant market share so that it can charge more for their products. Closer to home, it is hard to understate U.S. Steels historical significance in the Pittsburgh area, and further consolidation in the steel industry could undermine jobs in Western Pennsylvania. More than 3,700 jobs at U.S. Steel as well as the well-being of the communities that surround its plants are on the line. While such consolidations have been presented in the past as an opportunity to create new positions, such promises do not always live up to reality. Job losses at other facilities previously acquired by Cleveland Cliffs, including AK Steel and ArcelorMittal USA facilities in West Virginia, serve as a concerning preview for what could be coming for steel workers in Pennsylvania should this acquisition go through. As a former Chester County Commissioner and State Senator who chaired the Labor and Industry Committee, Ive seen firsthand the necessity of a strong steel industry in Pennsylvania. I watched as Lukens Steel was taken over by Bethlehem steel, to the benefit of neither, and I am now concerned about the latest maneuvers against another historic steel company in the Keystone State. We must maintain competition in the steel industry and ensure that any further consolidation does not stifle competition in this key American sector, for both the benefit of a strong and healthy American economy and for the good of Pennsylvania. Earl Baker is a former Chester County Commissioner and State Senator, in the Senate he chaired the Labor and Industry Committee. He is the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award of the Chester County Chamber. Every year, millions of monarch butterflies migrate south to Mexico for the winter. One Lehigh Valley man is helping keep track of that migration. Doug Burton was at the WM (Waste Management) Grand Central Environmental Education Center at 891 Grand Central Road in Plainfield Township on Wednesday engaged in his annual activity of monarch butterfly tagging. The East Allen Township resident has been going out to fields every September for the last nine years to tag the orange-and-black butterflies for Monarch Watch, a nonprofit education and research program based out of the University of Kansas. The tag numbers are logged in a system that keeps track of the population status and migration patterns of the butterflies. Burton also hosts classes at the Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center to teach people how to identify, catch and tag the butterflies. This state park facility in Bushkill Township hosted a tagging event of its own on Wednesday with Monarch Watch. Burton said the best way to catch a butterfly without harming it is to wait for one to land on a flower. Then slowly approach the butterfly and carefully place a net over the butterfly. Dont swing it like youre Bryce Harper of the Phillies, Burton said. Once netted, the butterfly isnt just pulled off the net, to avoid hurting the insect, Burton said. He places his hand under the butterfly and lets it grab onto to his finger. Then he uses tweezers to place an adhesive tag on the lower right wing of the butterfly. By placing the tags consistently in the same spot, it makes it easier for spotters in Mexico to locate a tag and record its number. Burton said two of the hundreds of butterflies he has tagged have been spotted in Mexico. While that may seem like a low percentage, Burton said it is important to remember that there are millions of monarch butterflies that migrate to Mexico each year. So, spotting any of the ones he tagged in Pennsylvania is not an easy task. Monarch butterflies round-trip migration is a multigenerational journey. The butterflies Burton tags will never return to this area again after they fly south. A new generation of eggs will be laid in Mexico on milkweed, the monarch butterflys host plant. Those butterflies will fly north in the spring into the southern U.S. and lay eggs. A third generation will then fly farther north and lay its own eggs. The butterflies Burton tags in September in the Lehigh Valley are the fourth generation of the butterflies that had been in Mexico. Burton said he was able to tag 11 monarch butterflies Wednesday at the Grand Central Environmental Education Center. People can find information for Burtons classes by calling the Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center at 610 746-2801 or visiting the centers website through dcnr.pa.gov. Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust. John Best is a freelance contributor to lehighvalleylive.com. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. FILE - French President Emmanuel Macron plays a video game next to Adrien Nougaret, aka ZeratoR, during a meeting with French esport video game players at the Elysee Palace in Paris, Friday June 3, 2022. French President Emmanuel Macron is extending an olive branch to video gamers after previously linking video games to riots that rocked France this year. Posting on the platform previously known as Twitter, Macron backpedalled on remarks where he had blamed video games for having intoxicated some young rioters. (Julien de Rosa, Pool via AP, File) This photo taken in October 2016 shows an aboveground section of Enbridge's Line 5 at the Mackinaw City, Mich., pump station. Ottawa is urging a U.S. appeals court to reverse a Wisconsin judges order that threatens to shut down the Line 5 cross-border pipeline by June 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP-John Flesher Teachers in Ontario's public elementary schools are set to start voting today on whether they want to give their union a strike mandate. Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario (ETFO) headquarters is seen in Toronto, Monday, March 9, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Cole Burston BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Armenia has once again demonstrated to the world its hypocrisy regarding the use of the Aghdam-Khankendi road, Honorary employee of the security agencies of Azerbaijan, retired Colonel Azer Garayev told Trend. The parallel use of the Lachin road and the Aghdam-Khankendi road should be considered another success of Azerbaijan. False statements about the alleged "blockade" and "humanitarian show" are another provocation of the Armenians. Pretending to be miserable is the usual policy of Armenia. The Armenians have resorted to their "traditional" tactics this time too. However, it was obvious that this was a lie," Garayev said. According to him, Azerbaijan considers the Armenian residents of Karabakh its citizens and has repeatedly stated this to the international community. "Azerbaijan is ready to ensure their safety, health, and other issues. This fact seriously worries Armenia and its protectors. Unfortunately, justice and truth are not important today. The biased discussions on Azerbaijan held in a number of foreign countries in recent days are proof of this," he said. A key partnership between Saudi Contractors Authority (SCA) and Ventures Onsite Scavo is set to transform the way construction projects are tracked and understood across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Scavo is an innovative online construction intelligence platform that is positioned in the market with an unmatched industry scope and powerful tracking tools, said a statement. It aims to empower construction industry professionals with actionable insights, real-time data, and market dynamics that will drive success. Scavo tracks over $1.5 trillion worth of active construction projects in Saudi alone, and its coverage extends to wider Middle East and Africa markets. As per contractor awards analysis by Scavo, over $64 billion worth of contracts are expected to be awarded to contractors in 2023 in Saudi with over $40 billion already awarded since January 2023. Nasser H Al-Hajri, Chief of Industry Services at Saudi Contractors Authority (SCA), expressed his confidence in Scavo's impact on the Saudi Construction Market, saying, "Scavo is one of our latest strategic initiatives for the KSA Construction Market, in partnership with Ventures Onsite, the market leader in tracking construction projects for the region. We are confident our members, as well as the KSA construction industry as a whole, will benefit immensely from the information and analysis Scavo can offer." Scavo is a comprehensive web-based platform that tracks projects in diverse sectors, including buildings, oil and gas, industrial, infrastructure, and power and water. This platform's full coverage ensures that users have access to the latest construction project updates, major players, trends, and developments within these industries, enabling them to make informed decisions and stay ahead of the competition. At its core, Scavo functions as a powerful lead generation tool, equipping organisations with the market and project intelligence needed to secure more construction contracts. Its capabilities extend further by offering analytical and statistical tools that help users understand the construction market landscape. Users can monitor industry trends, assess competitors' activities, and gain valuable insights that guide strategic planning. Scavo is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of stakeholders, both directly and indirectly. The platform operates on a subscription-based model, providing indispensable value to contractors and subcontractors, consultants, project owners, project management companies and suppliers. Contractors and suppliers gain access to real-time information of planned and ongoing construction projects for accurate targeting and increased bidding success. It also helps them in pre qualifying contractors and suppliers and drawing recommendations for clients. Project owners use the portal heavily while doing project planning and study phase. In addition, it helps all its users understand the regions construction landscape and showcase a clear picture of who is doing what. Scavo offers a dynamic platform through its website where users can access real-time data, historical records, and advanced analytics. By harnessing this data, construction professionals can uncover growth opportunities, identify potential risks, and make well-informed decisions that drive success. TradeArabia News Service BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Azerbaijan hopes Armenia will provide accurate mine maps as well as information about the fate of missing persons and their graves, the Head of the Azerbaijani State Security Service and Chairman of the State Commission of Azerbaijan on Prisoners of War, Hostages, and Missing Citizens, Colonel General Ali Naghiyev said, Trend reports. He made the remark at an international conference on "Strengthening national and global efforts to determine the fate of missing persons". The official emphasized that the search and identification of the remains of missing persons on both sides will serve to eliminate the protracted humanitarian crisis. "We are ready for full cooperation in this direction. However, despite the fact that over the past period we hoped for a constructive position for Armenia in this area, our expectations were not fully met. Using the opportunities created by this conference, I invite Yerevan to closer cooperation in issues related to prisoners and hostages," Naghiyev added. The conference being held in Baku includes former heads of state and government of foreign countries, representatives of international organizations, including structures operating in the humanitarian sphere, as well as international political experts. 200,000 is Guaranteed in the EAPT Barcelona Main Event; Full Schedule Inside September 18, 2023 Matthew Pitt Senior Editor The EA Poker Tour (EAPT) heads to Casino Barcelona in sunny Spain from September 29 through October 8, and everything points to it being a spectacular occasion. Eighteen events adorn the busy schedule, including a 560 buy-in 200,000 guaranteed Main Event that the PokerNews Live Reporting team is covering in full. The Main Event also comes with a cool 20,000 worth of packages for the EAPT Grand Final. EAPT Barcelona kicks off on September 29 with the first of four flights in the Mystery Bounty event. Costing 450 to enter and guaranteeing 40,000 in the prize pool, it is the perfect way to get the festival off to a flying start. The 250 buy-in 40,000 guaranteed EAPT Cup is another tournament that should not be missed. It runs from September 30 through October 2, and serves as a great way to warm up for the Main Event. Day 1A of the 560 buy-in 200,000 guaranteed EAPT Barcelona Main Event shuffles up and deals at 2:00 p.m. on October 5 under the watchful eyes of the PokerNews Live Reporting team. The Main Event features four flights, including a turbo-structured Day 1D, before spanning across a second and a third day before crowning its champion. EAPT Milan Main Event champion Julio Anzelmo There is the option to play an online Day 1 at GGPoker, Natural8, EAPoker, PokerOK, or any other skin on the network. Progress to Day 2, and you'll have to make your way to Barcelona in time for Day 2 on October 7. In June, the EAPT Rozvadov Main Event saw 596 players fight it out over a 400,000 prize pool. An anonymous player walked away with 81,500 for their victory. A month later, some 1,632 players piled into the Imperium Room in Milan, and created a 316,920 prize pool. Italy's Julio Anzelmo defeated their fellow countryman Dario Nittolo heads-up to secure a 54,500 top prize. High Rollers are also catered for with a 1,100 buy-in 40,000 guaranteed High Roller. Of course, there are several satellites feeding into the High Roller if you fancy a shot at the big time but find the 1,100 is outside your bankroll's constraints. Full 2023 EAPT Barcelona Schedule Date Time Event Buy-in Guarantee Fri 29 Sep 12:00 p.m. #1 Mystery Bounty Day 1A 450 40,000 2:00 p.m. Satellite to Mystery Bounty Day 1B 75 6 seats 5:00 p.m. #1 Mystery Bounty Day 1B 550 40,000 9:00 p.m. #2 Turbo Big Stack 250 10,000 Sat 30 Sep 1:00 p.m. #1 Mystery Bounty Day 2 40,000 3:00 p.m. #3 EAPT Cup Day 1A 250 40,000 6:00 p.m. #4 Bounty 250 10,000 9:00 p.m. Satellite to High Roller 115 3 seats Sun 1 Oct 12:00 p.m. #3 EAPT Cup Day 1B 250 40,000 6:00 p.m. #3 EAPT Cup Day 1C 250 40,000 9:00 p.m. #5 Turbo Texas 250 10,000 Mon 2 Oct 11:00 a.m. #3 EAPT Cup Turbo Day 1D 250 40,000 3:00 p.m. Satellite to High Roller 130 3 seats 5:00 p.m. #3 EAPT Cup Day 2 40,000 6:00 p.m. #6 Bounty 350 15,000 9:00 p.m. Satellite to Main Event Day 1A 125 8 seats Tue 3 Oct 12:00 p.m. Satellite to Main Event Bounty 125 7 seats 1:00 p.m. #7 Pot-Limit Omaha 8-Max 450 10,000 3:00 p.m. Satellite to High Roller 130 3 seats 6:00 p.m. #8 8-Max 450 20,000 9:00 p.m. Satellite to Main Event Bounty 125 6 seats Wed 4 Oct 12:00 p.m. #9 Main Event Bounty 560 25,000 4:00 p.m. Super Satellite to Main Event Day 1A 125 12 seats 7:00 p.m. #10 Progressive Bounty 450 20,000 10:00 p.m. Satellite to High Roller 255 6 seats Thu 5 Oct 12:00 p.m. Satellite to Main Event Day 1A 135 7 seats 2:00 p.m. #11 Main Event Day 1A 560 200,000* 7:00 p.m. #12 Turbo Deep Stack 250 15,000 9:00 p.m. Satellite to Main Event Day 1B 125 8 seats Fri 6 Oct 12:00 p.m. #11 Main Event Day 1B 560 200,000* 3:00 p.m. Satellite to Main Event Day 1C 135 8 seats 6:00 p.m. #11 Main Event Day 1C 560 200,000 7:00 p.m. #13 Turbo Deep Stack Bounty 250 10,000 Sat 7 Oct 11:00 a.m. #11 Main Event Turbo Day 1D 560 200,000* 2:00 p.m. Mini Main Event 280 20,000 5:00 p.m. #11 Main Event Day 2 200,000* 6:00 p.m. #15 High Roller 8-Max Day 1 1,100 40,000 7:00 p.m. #16 Turbo Deep Stack Bounty 250 10,000 9:00 p.m. #17 All In of Fold 7-Max 115 Sun 8 Oct 12:00 p.m. Satellite to High Roller 255 6 seats 1:00 p.m. #11 Main Event Day 3 200,000* 3:00 p.m. #15 High Roller 8-Max Day 2 1,100 40,000 4:00 p.m. #18 Big Stack 250 *plus 20,000 worth of EAPT Grand Final packages Sharelines Find out more about the upcoming EAPT Barcelona festival right here at PokerNews. Botez Beats Pros, Tortures Talbot In PokerStars Mystery Cash Challenge September 18, 2023 Jon Pill Contributor Episode two of of the PokerStars Mystery Cash Challenge picks up right where episode one left off. Parker "tonkaaaa" Talbot had been silenced on pain of forfeit and Alexandra Botez was sitting behind the only seriously big stack at the table. Each episode of PokerStars Mystery Cash Challenge is made up of two parts. Part one is made up of nine Texas hold'em hands, with pot-limit betting before the flop and no limit betting after. The second part of the show is the tenth and final handa 100-ante bomb pot played with only those players who won at least one hand in the first part. The winner of the most hands in part one gets the button for the bomb pot, and the winner of the bomb pot gets to open two mystery bounty envelopes. One with a valuable prize and another enclosing a challenge or forfeit. In episode one, Botez won the bomb pot, a 500 mystery bounty, and the right to shut one player up for the entire second round. After conferring with the table, she chose to silence Talbot. He had to remain silent until the bomb pot in episode two or would have to pay 100 each to every other player. Standings at the Start of Round 2 Rank Player Stack Profit 1 Alexandra Botez 20,250 +10,250 (+500 Mystery Cash) 2 Team PokerStars' Parker "tonkaaaa" Talbot 12,975 +2,975 3 Team PokerStars' Sam Grafton 9,475 -525 4 Griffin Benger 10,000 -1,750 5 Maria Ho 7,900 -2,100 6 Fabiano Kovalski 8,150 -8,850 The presenters James Hartigan and Joe Stapleton and the players counted Talbot into his oath of silence as the action got underway. Although players started episode one with 10,000 stacks, the wins, losses, and top-ups meant that by the opening of episode two, Maria Ho was playing the shortest stack (though she was far from the biggest loser, that distinction went to Fabiano Kovalski). Despite her smaller stack, Ho chased everyone off of Hand #1 with a pre-flop re-raise to 525. Just like that, she had her seat for the bomb pot. For Hand #2, Griffin Benger bet 175 under the gun with QJ, then called Botez's pot-sized re-raise to 650 with AK. The flop came down 1010J, and Benger called Botez's 700 bet, only to see the K come on the turn andafter both players checkedanother king come on the river. Botez bet the river2,900 into a pot of 2,775and Benger folded. Benger realizes he's beat. Botez won a double victory in Hand #2. She took the pot down, earning her ticket to the bomb pot. But she also won a psychological victory over the silenced Talbot. Botez slipped up twicemaking a pre-flop string bet and asking for a pot count during a no-limit roundboth times, Talbot was sent into silent paroxysms as the table made rulings and gave explanations without his help. Despite this, he didn't break. Benger won a small pot on Hand #3. However, he got out of the way early in hand Hand #4. Maria Ho went on to river a full house, and the unlucky Kovalski paid her off with a flush, losing 2,525 and pushing his losses for the series over the 10k mark. Unable to talk, Talbot looked to pass the time by straddling Hand #5 from under the gun. After a raise from Benger with A2, Talbot looked down to find a pair of aces in the hole. He reraised then Benger gave a short speech, folded, and smiled when Talbot showed the aces. Parker Talbot stays silent. Kovalski then got a few chips back from Botez on Hand #6, Botez won a big hand against Ho on Hand #7, then Sam Grafton became the last person to win his bomb pot ticket when he turned a straight during Hand #8. Ho won the final hand, breaking her tie with Botez for the dealer button. With the preliminary hands over, a producer tapped Talbot on the shoulder and let him know that he could finally speak again. Botez Back-To-Backs Bomb Pot Bounties The bomb pot started with 100 antes from all six players and Maria Ho on the button. As there is no pre-flop action during the bomb pot rounds, all six players got to check their cards and the flop of A5J simultaneously. Position Player Hand Small Blind Parker Talbot 108 Big Blind Fabiano Kovalski K5 UTG Sam Grafton 84 Middle Griffin Benger Q7 Cutoff Alexandra Botez 109 Dealer Maria Ho KJ Learn more about the PokerStars Power Path Discover what makes the PokerStars Power Path so awesome. Read more Hoping to follow up her round one victory, Botez led out from the cutoff for 300. Ho called, and everyone else got out of the two ladies' way. The turn was the 8, giving Botez a straight draw to chase Ho's pair of jacks. She led out with 1,000, and Ho called. The river was a 9, filling up a bunch of potential draws, including a runner-runner flush and several straights. Unfortunately, all it gave Botez was a pair of nines, which she turned into a bluff with a massive 5,000 bet into the 3,200 pot. Maria Ho ponders a call. Ho thought about it briefly before announcing, "[Botez] is gonna go back-to-back bounties." Botez showed the bluff as soon as Ho's cards hit the muck. "What an animal!" said a surprised-looking Grafton. "Six-way out of position. Just absolutely..." He trailed off. Either words or the editor failed him. Standings at the End of Round 2 Rank Player Stack Profit Bounties 1 Alexandra Botez 25,175 +15,175 +500 cash, 5,300 EPT ticket 2 Parker Talbot 13,150 +3,150 - 3 Sam Grafton 9,700 -300 - 4 Griffin Benger 10,000 -3,100 - 5 Maria Ho 9,925 -4,075 - 6 Fabiano Kovalski 9,150 -10,850 Botez then got to choose from the remaining ten envelopes, pulling a 5,300 EPT Main Event ticket. She punched the air and cheered before turning to Hartigan and saying, "Though, I do have one of these already." Alexandra Botez celebrates her mystery bounty. The second envelope came as a relief to Talbot as it was not another penalty that could be inflicted on him. Instead, if the envelope said that if Botez wins four of the nine preliminary hands in round three, then she is allowed to draw an additional mystery envelope. If you want to see whether she can pull that feat off, you can catch Episode 3 of the PokerStars Mystery Cash Game when it is released on September 23 at 3:00 p.m. CEST. Just visit the PokerStars Central or PokerStars UK Youtube channels to watch the episode for free. Click Here To Download PokerStars Now! Use the PokerNews Online Tournament Calendar to Plan Your Action Our free-to-use tool has several filters that make finding your perfect poker tournament, whether a WCOOP event or otherwise, a breeze. The PokerNews Online Tournament Calendar allows you to register for tournaments with a couple of mouse clicks, so you need never miss out again. Sharelines Episode two of the PokerStars Mystery Cash Challenge saw Alexandra Botez run over the pros Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) said that Trumps media interviews are music to the ears of prosecutors like Jack Smith and Fani Willis who are gathering evidence against him. Schiff told CNNs Jim Acosta when asked if Trump was taking full ownership of the 2020 plot to overturn the election, It sounds like he is, I think this is probably, uh, you know, music to the ears of the special prosecutor watching these interviews compiling further evidence to present against the president. Its probably also good news for the prosecutors in Georgia here he is taking responsibility saying it was his decision essentially that he was ignoring the lawyers who were saying the respected lawyers who were saying things that he didnt want to hear and going with the crazies because it affirmed what he wanted to believe. Video of Schiff: Trump continues to ignore the right to remain silent at his own peril. The former president should have learned when both DA Willis and Special Counsel Smith used his social media posts and interview quotes in court filings. However, Donald Trump has learned nothing, and continues to dig the hole deeper which each new media interview that he does. The former president does seem to be taking full credit for the attempted coup, which will make Jack Smiths job easier. Trump confessed last week in the classified documents case by basically admitted that he took the documents because he believes that he is entitled to them. As long as Trump thinks of the criminal cases against him as political problems, he runs the risk of talking himself into a felony conviction. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Armenia transferred the remains of 120 people out of 3,890 missing persons [since the first Karabakh war] to Azerbaijan, Deputy Prosecutor General, Military Prosecutor of Azerbaijan, Khanlar Valiyev said, Trend reports. He made the remark at an international conference on "Strengthening national and global efforts to determine the fate of missing persons". Valiyev emphasized that the issue related to clarifying the fate of missing persons is always at the center of attention for the head of the Azerbaijani state. After the 2020 second Karabakh war, the joint activities of the State Security Service, the State Commission for Prisoners, Missing and Hostage Citizens, and the Military Prosecutors Office resulted in the opening of numerous criminal cases on the facts of the capture and torture of prisoners and hostages, he noted. The official added that the remains of 508 people were discovered in the territories of Azerbaijan liberated from Armenian occupation in the second Karabakh war. Up to now, 10 mass graves of Azerbaijanis have been discovered in the liberated territories, and 15 remains found in the mass graves have been identified. The "Strengthening national and global efforts to determine the fate of missing persons" conference being held in Baku includes former heads of state and government of foreign countries, representatives of international organizations, including structures operating in the humanitarian sphere, as well as international political experts. A North Augusta man will spend 90 days in prison with three years probation after taking a plea deal in two separate sexual exploitation of a minor cases. Matthew Jonathon Tant, 22, pleaded guilty Sept. 14 to one count of third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, according to Robert Kittle, communications director with South Carolina Attorney General's Office. He was charged in Aiken, but because of the nature of his charges, he was prosecuted by the attorney generals office," said Ashley Hammack, who serves as deputy solicitor of the Second Judicial Circuit Solicitor's Office. Kittle said Tant was sentenced to three years in prison suspended to 90 days in jail and followed by three years of probation. According to online court records, he has credit for 60 days served while awaiting trial. Tants plea comes after two separate investigations by the South Carolina Attorney Generals Office. He was arrested on March 26, 2019, and charged with 20 counts of third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor. While out on bond Tant was arrested March 13, 2020 and charged with one count of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor and 11 counts of third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor. During the 2020 arrest, another suspect, 26-year-old Demetrius David John of Anderson, was arrested along with Tant and charged with 10 counts of third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor. John pleaded guilty last year in the case and has finished his prison term. Upon Tants release, he will have to register as a sex offender. An Aiken man is facing forgery charges after the State Law Enforcement Division said he used fraudulent vehicle titles from various states. Divonn Shaqui Johnson, 30, was arrested Sept. 15 and charged with three counts of forging a vehicle title, according to a media release from SLED. Warrants allege Johnson used fake titles at the North Augusta office of the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles earlier this year. He used an Alabama title for a 2018 Chevrolet Camaro on Feb. 11, a Georgia title for a 2019 Ford F-250 on May 26 and a Washington title for a 2014 Maserati on Aug. 14 all fraudulent titles, the charging documents said Investigators found the VINs provided for the vehicles were also fake, the warrants said. Johnson was booked at the Aiken County detention center and the case will be prosecuted by the 2nd Circuit Solicitors Office. A Charleston Pour House benefit concert is seeking to sustain support for a James Island woman found in the middle of a road with serious injuries in June. Jenn Drummond is back home in the Charleston area but the need for financial aid and moral support continues, said Matthew Allen, a close friend of Drummond's. A GoFundMe can be accessed at gofundme.com/f/support-jenns-recovery-after-tragic-hit-run. Almost $75,000 has been raised to date. "Every time I get to see her, shes making big strides," he said. "She's still a long way from autonomy." The Pour House will host "Jammin' for Jenn" from 6-9 p.m. on Sept. 25. Doors open at 5 p.m. Performing artists include Weigh Station Duo, Sounds of Blackfox, Captain Geech & The Shrimp Shack Shooters and Long Haul Paul. Jack of Cups on Folly Beach will take over the Pour House's kitchen, and organizers will hold a silent auction. Organizers are encouraging attendees to donate $10 at the door. The show will be all ages, but people younger than 21 will need to pay a $5 surcharge. Drummond was found unconscious on Woodland Shores Road outside her James Island home on June 21. The 34-year-old woman suffered blunt force trauma and a puncture wound to the back of the head. She was found with a fracture to her skull and several vertebrae. She was in a coma until June 27. She briefly stayed at Atlanta's Shepherd Center, which specializes in traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries, for speech and physical therapy. She returned home to the Charleston area in August as her recovery in Georgia went faster than expected, said Allen. She still requires 24-hour care, he said. A new restaurant serving Chinese-inspired cuisine has landed in the ground floor of a multi-use development that also features apartments, office space and fitness studios. Beautiful South, from the couple that brought Charleston Kwei Fei, opened at 128 Columbus St. in early August. Its name is a nod to both its physical home in the Lowcountry and cuisine from the regions below the Yangtze River in Southeastern China, the culinary inspiration for Beautiful South. As you walk toward Beautiful South, aromas spill out onto the Columbus Street sidewalk at the base of Courier Square, headquarters for the property developer Greystar. Inside the restaurant, patrons will find a cosmopolitan setting with chic cylindrical lights shining a spotlight on bowls of XO clams, beef and broccoli, crystal chicken and scallion oil noodles, garnished with a tangle of crispy onions. Beautiful South is by design loud and lively, so expect excited chatter to vibrate throughout the space. Contrary to the spicy selections at owners David and Tina Schuttenbergs Sichuan eatery Kwei Fei, Beautiful Souths small plates and entrees are mostly void of heat, an intentional omission. Texture and complexity take their place, as David Schuttenberg riffs on familiar dishes found at U.S. Chinese restaurants. Beautiful Souths General Tsos chicken brings a tangy taste while forgetting the bulky batter, and the crab Rangoon is served deconstructed with a mound of crab-flecked cream cheese placed next to airy wonton chips for dipping. Other surprises await throughout the rest of the menu, which can be modified to accommodate vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free diners. (COLUMBIA, S.C.) South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced recently that 42 attorneys general sued Meta in federal and state courts alleging the company knowingly designed and deployed harmful features on Instagram and its other social media platforms that purposefully addict c Read moreAttorney General Alan Wilson joins bipartisan, multistate coalition in lawsuits against Meta for harming children You are the owner of this article. SULLIVAN'S ISLAND Some residents have been carrying whistles and bear spray as coyote protection since a dog was killed in August, and on Sept. 18 area residents sought answers from Town Council. "My Jack Russell terrier was attacked in February," said Jim Whiteside of Mount Pleasant, who suggested coyotes could attack a child if something isn't done. He was among 30 people who attended an afternoon council committee meeting, where some called for hunting the coyotes or cutting back the maritime forest where many of the predators live. The heightened concern follows multiple coyote attacks on dogs, on the beach near stations 26 and 27, in the last two months of August. In one attack, a small dog was carried off and presumably killed by two coyotes. The town increased trapping efforts and caught two coyotes, on Aug. 30 and Sept. 5, and at least one more since then. "They have been, obviously, a lot more active lately, and that's why trapping has increased," said Police Chief Chris Griffin. Coyotes that are trapped are then killed. Statewide, more than 26,000 were killed last year, most of them shot by hunters. "What is the limit on what we can do to protect ourselves?" asked Sullivan's Island resident Mary Regner. Griffin and Administrator Andy Benke urged people to report sightings and interactions with coyotes to the police, and said residents can put traps on their own properties ideally with the help of a professional with a state permit. Firearms cannot be fired on Sullivan's Island, they reminded the audience. "You need to do something with where they live," said island resident Wayne Guckenberger. To scattered applause from the audience, he said that if the maritime forest isn't addressed then the town is wasting its time. The dense forest on accreted land has been a source of some contention on the island not because of coyotes, initially, but because it blocks some properties' ocean views. The Marine Corps jet mishap over North Charleston on Sept. 17 reminded the Lowcountry about the potential dangers of having military aircraft conducting training flights in our shared airspace. Such incidents are hardly common, but they do occur. The Post and Courier archives reveal details from at least nine other crashes that have occurred in South Carolina since 2005. They include: March 3, 2022: A Marine fighter jet crashes near Halfmoon Island on property owned by former Gov. Mark Sanford. The F/A-18D Hornet had just taken off from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort for a routine flight when it went down in an uninhabited section of Coosaw Plantation in Beaufort County. Both pilot and co-pilot safely eject with no injuries, and there is no damage to civilian property, authorities say. June 30, 2020: A 32-year-old pilot dies in an F-16 jet crash during a training mission at Shaw Air Force Base in Sumter. The pilot, 1st Lt. David Schmitz, was conducting a nighttime training flight exercise around midnight. He is killed after clipping an antenna during a landing and his ejector seat's parachute fails to deploy, according to Pentagon investigators. Sept. 27, 2018: A single-engine F-35B crashes on Little Barnwell Island near Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. The pilot ejects safely. No one on the ground is injured. An investigation later blames the mishap on a failed fuel tube. The incident marks the first crash for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program. Afterward, the U.S. and other nations ground the entire fleet for up to 48 hours to check for faulty fuel tubes. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Mass burials [of Azerbaijanis killed during the Armenian occupation of Azerbaijan in the first Karabakh war in the 1990s] have been mainly found in places shown by former captives, Deputy Prosecutor General, Military Prosecutor of Azerbaijan Khanlar Valiyev said, Trend reports. He made the remark at an international conference on "Strengthening National and Global Efforts to Determine the Fate of Missing Persons". According to Valiyev, international experience in discovering the remains of missing persons is being studied, and necessary work is underway to gain even greater coverage. The military prosecutor noted that this was due to the fact that the bodies of the dead were not buried in graves but were buried haphazardly in hastily dug holes. "The mass grave in Ashaghi Seyidahmadli village in Fuzuli district wasn't discovered during searches using devices," he added. Up to now, 10 mass graves of Azerbaijanis have been discovered in the Azerbaijani territories liberated from the Armenian occupation in the 2020 second Karabakh war, and 15 remains found in the mass graves have been identified. The "Strengthening national and global efforts to determine the fate of missing persons" conference being held in Baku includes former heads of state and government of foreign countries, representatives of international organizations, including structures operating in the humanitarian sphere, as well as international political experts. STUCKEY The hunt for a missing Marine Corps fighter jet ended with wreckage found in a rural expanse of farmland and swamp on Sept. 18 after a massive search across South Carolina for the elusive $90 million plane. An amalgam of military, law enforcement and civilian searchers scoured a sprawling expanse from the Lowcountry to the Pee Dee before finding a "debris field" from the downed F-35B Lightning II fighter jet in Williamsburg County a day after its pilot ejected. The pilot landed safely in a North Charleston neighborhood, but the stealth aircraft proved to be a much tougher find. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Walter Shutler told The Post and Courier just after 6 p.m. that authorities had located the wreckage. "It will take days to get this thing dug up," Shutler, the incident commander, said. The unmanned plane was found more than 63 miles from the North Charleston backyard where the pilot landed more than 24 hours earlier. Meanwhile, the Marine Corps' acting commandant ordered the branch's aircraft grounded for two days. Gen. Eric Smith instructed the Marines' aviation leaders on Sept. 18 to stand down and spend the time going over safety procedures with their units. The F-35B incident was the Marines' third aviation mishap in six weeks. Search planes from the U.S. Navy and the Civil Air Patrol flew in low grids across much of South Carolina throughout the day, according to FlightRadar24 data. The search appeared to reach as far north as Marion and as far south as Georgetown a distance of about 50 miles end-to-end. The planes flew for hours, moving back-and-forth above Williamsburg and Florence counties for much of Sept. 18. Its pulling from so many different sensors, fusing that all together into one display for you to digest whats going on around you, the Mount Pleasant resident said. There are sensors to detect enemy planes, along with ones that help lock in on targets on the ground. If you dont force yourself to look at the sky and ground during a flight, you can forget youre not in the simulator, he said. Abbamonte said that on most training flights, jets arent carrying weapons, though there are some land ranges in Georgia and South Carolina for air-to-ground combat training. Flying the F-35 can be physically exhausting. Pilots are trained to tense their muscles and practice breathing techniques to help keep blood flowing in their brains at the extreme speeds. Often after flights, evidence of the G-forces would show up as busted capillaries on Abbamontes arms or a slight cough for a couple of days. The F-35 program has been plagued by problems, cost overruns and delays, requiring the military to keep older jets in service longer than planned. The military still is not meeting its goals for when the F-35 is available to fly missions, said Diana Maurer, a director at the Government Accountability Office whose work includes a review of F-35 sustainment and repair. Problems range from a lack of spare parts and inability to quickly repair the jet to faulty diagnostics systems. Maurer said her team has spoken to pilots who rave about the capabilities of the F-35 when they fly it, but from a taxpayer perspective, there are a host of questions and concerns. "There are a varity of reasons why they're far from meeting their mission-capable goals, but it's not flying nearly as often the services would want," she said. "The second issue is that it's a really expensive aircraft to fly and to operate." An F-35B costs about $9 million a year to operate. The U.S.'s planned fleet of all F-35 models will cost about $400 billion to build and another $1.3 trillion to maintain, making it the most expensive weapon in U.S. military history. The city of North Charleston soon will undergo a seismic political transformation, not only because longtime Mayor Keith Summey is not seeking reelection but also because five members of City Council have opted not to run again. Adding to the unknowns are the city's regrettable method of ele Read moreEditorial: Eight picks for North Charleston City Council Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson has failed to get on the ballot for South Carolina's Republican presidential primary next year, raising further doubts about his long-shot 2024 campaign for the GOP nomination. Read more10 Republicans will be on SC's presidential primary but not Asa Hutchinson The Minneapolis police force has evanesced in size from around 900 officers at the time of George Floyds death in 2020 to 585 today. The Star Tribune arrives late to the story in Minneapolis police staffing levels reach historic lows amid struggle for recruitment, retention. Subhead: With 585 sworn officers, the city holds one of the lowest ratios of officers to citizens among many major American cities. The story includes the handy table below: How did this happen? We have the case of George Floyd, of course, but we also have the persistent undermining of law enforcement by Minnesotas political establishment in general and Minneapoliss in particular. See, for example, my City Journal essay The anti-cop attorney general. To this we can add the piling on of the Biden administration for good measure. And we have my favorite, the institutional pillar of both the state and local DFL establishment in the Star Tribune itself. To take just one example, consider the contribution of reporter Reid Forgrave that I took up in Emotional in Minneapolis (commenting on Forgraves August 2020 story Activists blame riots on lack of trust in Minneapolis police). On Power Line I have repeatedly asked who in his right mind would go to work for the Minneapolis police department. It turns out to be a good question. The answer is approximately no one. The Star Tribune lies at the heart of the Minneapolis power structure and embodies the civic irresponsibility that has wrecked Minneapolis. Forgraves bald apologetics in story form presented one small example of the ills that have undermined, demoralized, and devastated Minneapolis law enforcement. The Biden administration has deputized Krazee-Eyez Killa Jack Smith to put President Trump away some time before the 2024 presidential election. The train keeps a rollin, banana republic style. Last week Smith filed a motion in his District of Columbia 2020 election case against Trump. Smiths motion is supported by a 19-page memorandum that is posted online here. Jonathan Turley criticizes Smiths motion in Gagging Donald Trump: Why Smiths Narrowly Tailored Motion is Neither Narrow Nor Wise. Section I.B. of Smiths memorandum is headed Since the Indictment, the Defendant Has Deployed Misleading and Inflammatory Statements About this Case to Undermine Confidence in the Justice System and Prejudice the Jury Pool. The whole thing reminds me of Governor Le Petomanes outburst in Blazing Saddles: Weve gotta protect our phony baloney jobs, gentlemen. Its actually worse than that, but thats the idea. Appearances must be preserved. In the motion Smith asks the hostile Judge Chutkan to gag Trump pending trial. Smith doesnt want Trump to be saying things that might upset the DC applecart. What might Trump say that would pose an obstacle to his conviction by a DC jury? I cant imagine. Smith offers examples of Trumps characteristic statements on Truth Social and (unpersuasively) argues the point in memorandum section I.C. How many possible D.C. jurors follow Trump on Truth Social or attend to his commentary? You dont have to be a genius to deduce that something else is going on. Among other things, Smith must be dazzled by the prospect of Trump being held in contempt of court even before trial. PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-18 20:02:27 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 505 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 The perfect choice for Organic September, Hispanic Heritage Month, National Mezcal Day, and Day of the DeadJACKSONVILLE, FL / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / One drink covers it all for Organic September, Hispanic Heritage Month, National Mezcal Day, and Day of the Dead: the #1 mezcal cocktail in America, Bosscal Mezcal's proprietary Mezgarita. Featured in more than 2,500 restaurants (and counting) across the America, the Mezgarita - a riff on the Margarita - is a familiar way to introduce Mexico's native spirit, mezcal.Bosscal Mezgarita: The Number One Selling Mezcal Cocktail in America The perfect choice for Organic September, Hispanic Heritage Month, National Mezcal Day, and Day of the Dead: A Bosscal Mezgarita is the perfect choice for:Organic September, as Bosscal Joven Mezcal is certified organic by the USDA, EU, and SAGARPA Mexico;Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct. 25), as the founders of Bosscal Mezcal - brothers Verne and Nelson Nieves - were raised in Florida by a mother exiled from Cuba and a father who immigrated from Uruguay;National Mezcal Day (Oct. 21);Day of the Dead (Nov. 1), a joyous Mexican holiday on which families visit cemeteries to decorate graves and honor their ancestors, often with mezcal.Consumers can order a Bosscal Mezgarita at these restaurants, among others, or make one at home (recipe below):Buffalo Wild Wings MGM Resorts Ruby TuesdayCarnival Cruise Lines PopStroke SSP America AirportsHooters Regal Cinemas Wild Wing CafeThe Bosscal MezgaritaKosher salt or Tajin to rim the glass2 oz. Bosscal Joven Mezcal1 oz. freshly squeezed lime juice.5 oz agave nectar1 oz. waterLime wheel for garnishMoisten the rim of a glass with a lime wedge, then invert the glass on a plate of Kosher salt or Tajin to rim, then add ice. To an iced mixing glass, add mezcal, lime juice, agave syrup, and water, then shake well and strain into the prepared glass. Garnish with a lime wheel.About Bosscal Mezcal (NOM D248G):Bosscal Mezcals are made with a trademarked Mountain to Market process, from only wild-grown Cenizo agave which is hand-harvested - and donkey-transported - from the Durango highlands to Bosscal's private distillery. A new agave pup is planted in place of every mature agave harvested; this initiative has cost the company $400K to date, but ensures future supply for both the local landowners and the brand. Bosscal has organic certifications from the USDA, EU, and SAGARPA Mexico, and currently offers three mezcals in the U.S. (all ABV 42%): Bosscal Joven (SRP: $44.99/750mL); Bosscal Damiana, a stimulant herb which grows alongside wild agave (SRP: $49.99/750mL); and the rare Bosscal Pechuga de Conejo (SRP: $99.99/750mL). The first Bosscal Mezcal was released in 2015; by 2022, the brand had achieved distribution in all 50 states; and in 2023 it was selected as part of Southern Glazer's Craft Collection Luxury Spirits portfolio nationwide.*The Mezgarita is a legally registered trademark belonging to Bosscal Mezcal and is offered exclusively to its customers.Contact InformationChrisitne Deussen Deussen Global Communicatons, Inc. cdeussen@ deussenglobal.com Related FilesBosscal Mezgarita.jpgBOSSCAL LOGO_STICKER 03B.PNGSOURCE: Bosscal Mezcal BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. The number of people infected with coronavirus (COVID-19) and vaccinated against it in Azerbaijan for the last week (September 11-17) has been announced, the Operational Headquarters under the Cabinet of Ministers told Trend. During this time, 142 new cases of coronavirus infection have been registered, and 127 people have recovered. In Azerbaijan, 832,580 cases of coronavirus infection have been detected so far, and 822,131 of them have been treated and recovered. Currently, there are 147 active patients. To date, 10,302 people have died from the coronavirus. It was noted that 3,012 tests for coronavirus have been done in the last week, for a total of 7.6 million tests since the start of the pandemic. PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-18 11:00:22 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 478 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 ALBANY, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Once again this year, CDPHP has some of the highest-rated commercial health plans in the nation, according to recent NCQA Health Plan Ratings."Despite the massive upheaval the health care industry has faced over the last several years, the fact that CDPHP has yet again been named among the highest-rated plans in New York state and the nation by NCQA, one of the most well-respected health care quality organizations in the U.S., is a testament to our valued employees and our loyal membership," said John D. Bennett, MD, president and CEO, CDPHP. "I highly encourage anyone shopping for health care coverage this fall to do your research, compare plan benefits and extras, and keep these ratings in mind," added Bennett.NCQA rates plans on a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 is the highest score and 1 is the lowest. Plans were scored on patient experience, prevention, and treatment, as well as NCQA Accreditation.Below is a breakdown of how commercial CDPHP plans are rated for 2023*:Capital District Physicians' Health Plan, Inc. - Commercial (HMO) - 4.5 out of 5Capital District Physicians' Healthcare Network - Commercial (HMO/POS Combined) - 4.5 out of 5CDPHP Universal Benefits, Inc. - Commercial (PPO) - 4.5 out of 5Capital District Physicians' Healthcare Network - Commercial (PPO) - 4.5 out of 5CDPHP will complement our award-winning plans with the following member-focused enhancements for 2024:An enhanced prescription drug networkThe 2024 prescription drug benefit will include preferred pharmacies which have partnered with CDPHP to offer lower dispensing fees and drug costs, as well as participation in the Rx for Less Program (which offers dozens of medications for as low as a penny a pill).$0 Tier 1 medications for members under age 19There will be no member cost-share for Tier 1 drugs in the preferred network for members under the age of 19.$0 outpatient mental health and substance use servicesThere will be no member cost-share for outpatient facility-based mental health and substance use disorder treatment services.Parent and baby class reimbursementParent and baby classes (e.g., yoga, swim lessons) are now eligible for reimbursement under the fitness reimbursement benefit.Unless otherwise noted, all above-mentioned benefits take effect on January 1, 2024.*The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health care quality. NCQA accredits and certifies a wide range of health care organizations and recognizes clinicians in key clinical areas. NCQA's HEDIS is the most widely used performance measurement tool in health care. NCQA's website ( www.ncqa.org) contains information to help consumers, employers and others make informed health care choices.About CDPHPEstablished in 1984, CDPHP is a physician-founded, member-focused and community-based not-for-profit health plan that offers high-quality affordable health insurance plans to members in 36 counties throughout New York. CDPHP is also on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.Contact:Natalia BurkartDirector, Communications Strategy (518) 542-8524 natalia.burkart@cdphp.com SOURCE: CDPHP PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-18 22:30:46 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 508 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 SAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Hagens Berman urges Discover Financial Services (NYSE:DFS) investors who suffered substantial losses to submit your losses now.Class Period: Feb. 21, 2019 - Aug. 14, 2023Lead Plaintiff Deadline: Oct. 31, 2023Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/DFS Contact An Attorney Now: DFS@ hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895Discover Financial Services (NYSE: DFS) Securities Fraud Class Action:The complaint alleges that Defendants made false and misleading statements and failed to disclose that: (1) DFS maintained deficient risk management and compliance procedures; (2) as a result of these deficiencies, DFS had, among other things, failed to comply with applicable student loan servicing standards, misclassified certain credit card accounts, overcharged customers, and failed to stem its ballooning credit card delinquency rate; and (3) these issues, when they became known, would subject DFS to significant financial exposure, regulatory scrutiny, and reputational harm.The truth began to emerge on July 20, 2022, when DFS announced that it was suspending its share repurchase program "because of an internal investigation into its student loan servicing practices and related compliance matters." Then, on July 19, 2023, DFS disclosed that it had misclassified certain credit card products over an approximate 15-year period as a result of an acknowledged compliance failure. DFS stated that correction of the misclassifications negatively impacted its retained earnings and certain previous interim period net income.DFS also revealed that it received a proposed consent order from the FDIC in connection with an unrelated regulatory matter.Finally, on Aug. 14, 2023, DFS announced that Roger C. Hochschild resigned from his position as CEO and President and as a member of the company's board. The same day, DFS reported a significant increase in its credit card delinquency rate."We're focused on investors' losses and are investigating whether DFS may have concealed problems with its compliance and risk management practices," said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation.If you invested in Discover Financial Services and have substantial losses, or have knowledge that may assist the firm's investigation, click here to discuss your legal rights with Hagens Berman.Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding Discover Financial Services should consider their options to help in the investigation or take advantage of the SEC Whistleblower program. Under the new program, whistleblowers who provide original information may receive rewards totaling up to 30 percent of any successful recovery made by the SEC. For more information, call Reed Kathrein at 844-916-0895 or email DFS@ hbsslaw.com # # #About Hagens BermanHagens Berman is a global plaintiffs' rights complex litigation law firm focusing on corporate accountability through class-action law. The firm is home to a robust securities litigation practice and represents investors as well as whistleblowers, workers, consumers and others in cases achieving real results for those harmed by corporate negligence and fraud. More about the firm and its successes can be found at hbsslaw.com . Follow the firm for updates and news at @ClassActionLaw.Attorney advertising.Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.Services may be performed by attorneys in any of our offices.Contact: Reed Kathrein, 844-916-0895SOURCE: Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-18 17:17:05 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 579 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / MOSAIC @ T. Rowe Price, one of our firm's associate-led business resource groups, and its Latinx Heritage Community are hosting an educational event focused on how language impacts individuals, culture, and business in important ways.As we recognize Hispanic Heritage Month, a few of our associates recognize the significant achievements of the Hispanic community in driving prosperity, power, and progress in the United States and around the world.Arlene Cabrera, Diversity Partner, COO Group and MOSAIC @ T. Rowe Price's Latinx Heritage Community CochairThis year's theme is about forging your path no matter the odds so that you honor the sacrifices made for you, succeed, and pave the way for others to thrive. It's embracing the mindset that you're deserving, believing in your greatness, and knowing your worth. The contributions made by every Hispanic strengthens the tide of our collective value and creates a beacon of hope and aspiration. There's power in bringing our voice, talent, and experiences to bear and advocating for what we need to maximize our potential. Our authenticity is a superpower that not only elevates our contributions, but allows us to remain prideful of who we are and aspire to be.Nicolas Lombo, Managing Legal Counsel, U.S. Collective VehiclesProsperity, Power, and Progress-these characteristics represent the immigrant's journey. As an immigrant, I would rearrange these as power, progress, and prosperity in a cyclical pattern. Power is not just physical or economic strength, but also the dedication and hard work that sets us on the path to progress. Progress is the advancement-sometimes slow but constant-toward the goal of personal, family, and communal prosperity. Finally, prosperity is the goal of being able to provide for ourselves and others-not just economically, but also socially. We go back to power but now from a different/higher perspective to progress toward a different/higher goal to achieve different/higher prosperityand the cycle continues.Helany Sinkler, Diversity Acquisition Program ManagerThis is a representation of the Latinx community, both individually and collectively, stepping into our power and greatness, working to forge a legacy that future generations will proudly inherit, build upon, and enrich. I am keenly aware of the struggles and sacrifices my ancestors faced and overcame both in the U.S. and my home country of Honduras. It fuels my determination and commitment to honor them through my contributions and achievements. I seek opportunities to uplift my Latinx community and create positive, lasting impact. The theme stands as a profound recognition and proud celebration of the unyielding grit, greatness, and influence we possess-all of which are propelling the Latinx community forward educationally, economically, politically, and socially.Pedro Sousa, CFA, Risk and Portfolio Construction Research AnalystLiving in Europe has given me a renewed perspective on the interplay of prosperity, power, and progress in our Latin American heritage. We have a history of advanced indigenous civilizations melded with the contributions from various waves of immigration and settlement into Latin America. Importantly, we also have Iberian colonial footprints embedded not only in our surnames, but also in the complex course of events and in our culture. As we reflect on this vibrant heritage, let us recognize the Latin Americans who continue to make a positive impact on the global stage today.T. Rowe PriceView additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from T. Rowe Price on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: T. Rowe PriceWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/t-rowe-priceEmail: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: T. Rowe Price PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-18 19:16:55 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 498 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Famoid is a leading social media marketing company based in Delaware. It was founded in 2017, and since then it has been serving businesses with high-quality social media solutions.The company strives to provide the best social media services to help businesses grow and extend their reach. In today's time, brands must have an established image on Instagram. Small businesses and brands that are trying to grow their influence on the platform can rely on Famoid to Buy Instagram followers.On a platform like Instagram, having more followers is equivalent to extended reach. It allows businesses to promote their products and services to a larger group of audience. Famoid makes it possible by offering genuine Instagram followers.Brands and influencers can buy Instagram followers from Famoid and improve their reach. Unlike other services, Famoid doesn't offer fake or bot followers. They provide high-quality and genuine followers to clients. This is what sets it apart from other similar services.Businesses can rely on Famoid for various reasons. Besides offering genuine Instagram followers, they also prioritize users' safety and privacy. For secure payment, the company uses PayPal and SafeCharge.Famoid has been in this business for many years now. Over time, they have gained enough experience to realize what customers want. They provide instant social media solutions to both brands and individuals.Famoid offers top-notch service. They guarantee customers won't regret choosing their service. They prioritize customer satisfaction above anything else. They realize the importance of fast delivery and therefore, do not make clients wait for long. They provide instant delivery. Once the order is placed, they will deliver Instagram followers to the client's account in 10 minutes. Sometimes, they fulfill orders in just 5 minutes.Another great thing about Famoid is their round-the-clock customer support. Clients can contact their customer service whenever they need. The company has employed a team of experts who are 24/7 there to assist.As a leading social media marketing company, Famoid understands the importance of time. This is the reason they provide fast service. They provide instant social media solutions to help brands focus on their marketing campaigns.Famoid doesn't send fake or bot users to clients. They always deliver genuine Instagram followers to all their clients. They give high value to customer experience.Famoid is an online service. The company maintains a well-organized website. The details regarding their social media services are displayed on the site itself.With Famoid's services, businesses can improve their Instagram marketing campaigns. It provides them with genuine Instagram followers to grow their reach. In case of any issue, clients can contact Famoid's customer service and get their problems solved.About FamoidFamoid is a well-known social media marketing company. It started operations in 2017. This Delaware-based company offers genuine Instagram followers and other social media solutions to brands and businesses. They can help you grow your online business and reach more customers.CONTACT:Daniel Smithsupport@ famoid.comhttps://famoid.com/112 Capitol Trail Newark, DE 19711 - United StatesSOURCE: Famoid PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-18 10:40:17 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 1042 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Promore Pharma (STO:PROMO) (FRA:8T0)Unofficial English translation for information purposes only. If there are differences between the English translation and the Swedish original, the Swedish text will take precedence.Promore Pharma AB (publ) will hold an Extraordinary General Meeting on Thursday, 5 October 2023 at 10.00 am, in Advokaterna Liman & Partners AB:s premises at Grev Turegatan 38, 114 38 Stockholm. Registration begins at 9.30 am.RIGHT TO ATTEND AND NOTIFICATION OF THE COMPANY Anyone wishing to attend the meeting must(i) be entered as a shareholder in the share register kept by Euroclear Sweden AB as of 27 September 2023, and(ii) give notice to the company of its intention to attend no later than 29 September 2023.Notification of attendance may be given in writing to the company by e-mail to shareholders@ promorepharma.com or by mail to Promore Pharma AB (publ), "Extraordinary General Meeting", Fogdevreten 2, SE-171 65 Solna, Sweden. When giving notification, please state your name or company name, personal ID or company registration number, address, and daytime telephone number as well as the number of advisors.NOMINEE REGISTERED SHARES To be entitled to attend the meeting, holders of nominee registered shares must instruct the nominee to have the shares registered in the holder's own name, so that the holder is entered in the share register kept by Euroclear Sweden AB as of 27 September 2023. Registration in this way may be temporary. Request for such voting rights registration shall be made to the nominee, in accordance with the nominee's routines. Voting rights registration that has been made by the nominee not later than 29 September 2023 will be considered in the preparation of the share register.PROXY AND PROXY FORM Anyone who does not attend the meeting in person may exercise its right at the meeting via a proxy in possession of a written, signed and dated form of proxy. The form of proxy may be obtained from the company and it is also available on the company's website: www.promorepharma.com . Representatives of a legal person must attach a copy of the registration certificate or equivalent documentary authority. To facilitate entry to the meeting, forms of proxy, registration certificates and other documentary authority must be received by the company at the above-stated address, in good time before the meeting.PROPOSED AGENDAOpening of the meeting and election of Chairman of the meetingPreparation and approval of voting listApproval of the agendaElection of one or two people to approve the minutesExamination of whether the meeting has been duly convenedDecision on voluntary liquidationClosure of the meetingDECISIONS PROPOSED BY THE BOARD Election of Chairman of the meeting (item 1)It is proposed that Anders Bjornsson, attorney-at-law, Advokaterna Liman & Partners, or if he is prevented from attending, the person the Board proposes in his place, be elected as Chairman of the meeting.Decision on voluntary liquidation (item 6)The Board proposes that the general meeting decide that the company shall enter into voluntary liquidation in accordance with chapter 25 section 3 of the Swedish Companies Act.Promore Pharma AB has since spring 2023 had a very challenging market situation with a low market value in relation to the company's need for new investments. The company received the final results of the PHSU05 clinical trial, which showed that the treatment effect of ensereptide was insufficient to justify further investments, which is why the Board later decided to discontinue this development project. This resulted in the company's market value being greatly reduced. Furthermore, the financial markets have been unstable. In general, it has created a difficult climate for the company to carry out public share issues, which are needed to finance the continued development of the company's main asset, the drug candidate ropocamptide.The Board estimates that the company's cash will last until mid-December 2023. Together with external advisors, the Board has investigated several financing alternatives as well as possibilities for various forms of strategic transactions. At the date of this notice, negotiations regarding possible structured transactions are ongoing. A declaration of intent has been signed regarding a concrete business proposal, but no binding agreements have been entered into. In order to avoid a bankruptcy situation in the event that a structural transaction could not be carried out, the Board therefore assesses that there is currently no acceptable alternative to a decision on voluntary liquidation. However, it must be emphasized that the Board considers that there are real conditions for carrying out a structured transaction during the liquidation. In the event that a final agreement is entered into, the liquidator can propose to the general meeting that the liquidation should cease, and the business recommence. It may also be appropriate to carry out a distribution of the shares in the company's wholly owned subsidiary Pergasus AB, where the patent rights for ropocamptide have been collected, to Promore Pharma's shareholders.The decision on liquidation is proposed to apply from the time when the Swedish Companies Registration Office has appointed a liquidator.The Board's preliminary assessment is that the possible distribution to the shareholders in connection with the liquidation will amount to approximately 0 - 10 MSEK.Distribution, to the extent it becomes relevant, is expected to take place in connection with the time for summoning unknown creditors having expired or at the latest in connection with the presentation of the liquidator's final report.The Board proposes that Lars-Henrik Andersson, attorney-at-law, Cirio Advokatbyra AB, be appointed liquidator.DOCUMENTS All documents in accordance with the Swedish Companies Act will be available at the company and on the company's website www.promorepharma.com for at least two weeks immediately before the meeting. Copies of these documents will be sent immediately, and at no cost to the recipient, to shareholders who so request and state their postal address. The documents will also be available at the meeting.NUMBER OF SHARES AND VOTING RIGHTS The total number of shares in the company as of the date of this notice is 60,713,936 representing a total of 60,713,936 voting rights. As of that date the company does not own any of its own shares.INFORMATION AT THE MEETING The shareholders are reminded of their right to request information at the meeting from the Board and the managing director in accordance with the Swedish Companies Act.PROCESSING OF PERSONAL DATA For information on how your personal data is processed, pleas PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-18 23:22:38 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 546 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 SAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Hagens Berman urges RTX Corporation f/k/a Raytheon Technologies Corporation (NYSE:RTX) investors who suffered substantial losses to submit your losses now. The Firm also encourages persons with knowledge that might assist the investigation to contact its attorneys.Class Period: Feb. 8, 2021 - July 25, 2023Lead Plaintiff Deadline: Oct. 2, 2023Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/rtx Contact An Attorney Now: RTX@ hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895RTX Corporation (RTX) Securities Fraud Class Action:The litigation focuses on RTX's disclosures about its manufacturing quality controls within its Pratt & Whitney engine program.The complaint alleges that RTX made false or misleading statements and failed to disclose that: (1) its engines had been affected from at least 2015 - 2020 by a quality control issue; and (2) this issue would require RTX to recall and reinspect many engines, affecting its customers and harming its business.Investors learned the truth on July 25, 2023, when Reuters reported that contamination in the metal used to manufacture the Pratt & Whitney engine parts meant that 1,200 of the more than 3,000 engines built of the twin-engine Airbus A320neo between 2015 and 2021 must be removed and inspected for micro cracks.The same day, RTX reduced its 2023 free cash flow guidance by about $500 million (or about 10%) and blamed this on "recent" findings of contamination in the metal used to make its Pratt & Whitney engine parts that would require potentially hundreds of accelerated engine inspections.During the earnings call, management revealed "[i]t's going to be expensive" and "[t]his is an issue that we first uncovered back in 2020 when we had an incident with the V2500 turbine disc." On Sept. 11, 2023, RTX announced that approximately 600 to 700 engines would be removed for shop visits, it would incur a $3 billion pre-tax charge during Q3 2023, and it cut its full-year sales outlook.These events sent the price of RTX shares significantly lower."We're focused on investors' losses and proving RTX misled investors about its manufacturing quality controls and, recently, its claim to have remediated the contamination issue in 2021," said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation.If you invested in RTX Corporation and have substantial losses, or have knowledge that may assist the firm's investigation, click here to discuss your legal rights with Hagens Berman.Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding RTX Corporation should consider their options to help in the investigation or take advantage of the SEC Whistleblower program. Under the new program, whistleblowers who provide original information may receive rewards totaling up to 30 percent of any successful recovery made by the SEC. For more information, call Reed Kathrein at 844-916-0895 or email RTX@ hbsslaw.com # # #About Hagens BermanHagens Berman is a global plaintiffs' rights complex litigation law firm focusing on corporate accountability through class-action law. The firm is home to a robust securities litigation practice and represents investors as well as whistleblowers, workers, consumers and others in cases achieving real results for those harmed by corporate negligence and fraud. More about the firm and its successes can be found at hbsslaw.com . Follow the firm for updates and news at @ClassActionLaw.Attorney advertising.Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.Services may be performed by attorneys in any of our offices.Contact: Reed Kathrein, 844-916-0895SOURCE: Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-18 18:01:13 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 486 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 BOSTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Spoiler Alert, a Boston-based B2B software company dedicated to revolutionizing excess inventory management, is proud to announce that two of its leaders, Ari Hopkinson and Emily Malina, have been named recipients of the prestigious 2023 Women in Supply Chain Award. This recognition, presented by Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive, honors accomplished female leaders in the supply chain field, celebrating their outstanding contributions, mentorship, and role in setting a foundation for women in all levels of a company's supply chain network.Hopkinson expressed her gratitude, stating, "This award signifies the progress we've made - and continue to make - towards a more inclusive supply chain ecosystem. It's a testament to the power of collaboration and diverse perspectives, which are essential in addressing complex challenges and driving innovation." Malina, Co-Founder and President, leveraged her prior experience in supply chain transformation to co-found Spoiler Alert while at MIT Sloan School of Management. Hopkinson, Senior Director of Customer Success, joined the company in 2017 and has risen through the ranks of Customer Success, where she now leads a team providing expertise to discounting teams at global CPGs.This year's awards saw a record-breaking number of submissions, underscoring the growing momentum in recognizing the pivotal role women play in the supply chain landscape. Food Logistics and SDCE received over 400 submissions this year, the highest number for any of their awards.Go to https://foodl.me/fdx1zi to view the full list of winners. Recipients will be honored at this year's Women in Supply Chain Forum, set to take place Nov. 14-15, 2023, in Atlanta. Go to www.WomenInSupplyChainForum.com to register and learn more.About Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain ExecutiveFood Logistics reaches more than 26,000 supply chain executives in the global food and beverage industries, including executives in the food sector and the logistics section who share a mutual interest in the operations and business aspects of the global cold food supply chain. Supply & Demand Chain Executive is the only supply chain publication covering the entire global supply chain, focusing on trucking, warehousing, packaging, procurement, risk management, professional development and more. Go to www.FoodLogistics.com and www.SDCExec.com to learn more.About Spoiler AlertSpoiler Alert is a Boston-based, B2B software company helping leading CPG brands manage excess and aging inventory. Its customers, which include Campbell Soup Company, Danone North America, Mondelez International, Nestle, Unilever, and Kraft Heinz leverage Spoiler Alert's software and services to manage their discounting processes across a private network of discount retailers and nonprofit channels - with a focus on maximizing cost recovery, strengthening customer relationships, and increasing the effectiveness of CPG teams tasked with minimizing inventory write-offs. To learn more, visit www.spoileralert.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.Contact: press@ spoileralert.com , 617-917-4123Contact InformationChris Masterson Senior Manager, Marketing chris@ spoileralert.com 508-440-9660SOURCE: Spoiler Alert PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-18 18:18:15 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 976 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 FedEx's mobile feeding canteens enable The Salvation Army to serve more than 32,000 individuals in Q2 2023NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / In the second quarter of 2023, FedEx's mobile feeding units proved vital in The Salvation Army's efforts to serve their communities. The mobile feeding units were used in outreach events, disaster relief, and homeless feeding programs, and over this quarter the mobile canteens were deployed to 47 different events, with over 32,562 people served. The Salvation Army is greatly appreciative of the support of FedEx and their donation of mobile feeding units and will continue to utilize them to further support our communities.Disaster ResponseTornadoes in Indiana: On March 31st, 2023, a tornado swept across Indiana and caused significant damage in several counties. The FedEx canteen was engaged immediately to support survivors, first responders, city workers, and utility crews. In Sullivan, Indiana, the canteen was used by disaster workers for weeks after the tornado. Over 50 volunteers served 6,596 meals, 7,667 snacks, and 6,393 drinks. Additionally, disaster workers provided Bibles, blankets, comfort kits, and toys and 15 survivors were provided with Emotional and Spiritual Care by trained Emergency Disaster Services workers. Over 10,000 survivors were served with the help of The Salvation Army and the FedEx canteen.Fires in Western Pennsylvania: The Salvation Army FedEx canteens were used by Emergency Disaster Services teams to respond to 8 fires in the following counties in Pennsylvania over the course of April, May, and June (Braddock, Glassport, West Mifflin, East Pittsburgh, and Pitcarin). Salvation Army volunteers and officers spent hours at the scenes of the fires, providing support to both survivors and first responders. Emergency Disaster Services workers provided meals, drinks, blankets, and snacks, reaching over 455 individuals affected by the fires.Tornadoes in Tennessee: Beginning on March 31st and continuing through the early hours of April 1st, tornadoes blew through Tennessee, ultimately damaging dozens of homes and taking the lives of several Tennessee residents. The Salvation Army Kentucky & Tennessee Division deployed the FedEx canteen to serve those impacted, focusing their efforts on Wynne, Arkansas, and Covington, Tennessee. The FedEx canteen was used by disaster workers to serve for two days in Wynne, Arkansas and for three days in Covington, Tennessee. In Wynne, Arkansas, disaster workers partnered with the fire department to serve meals, snacks, and drinks to survivors and first responders. In Covington, Tennessee, the disaster workers partnered with the police department who were able to escort the team to the most impacted areas where they served first responders. Trained disaster workers also provided Emotional & Spiritual Care to those impacted. Over the course of a 5-day response, over 100 individuals were served by The Salvation Army with the help of the FedEx canteens.Fires in Chicago: From April to June, The Salvation Army North & Central Illinois Division responded to 6 fires in Chicago, Illinois and Aurora, Illinois. With the help of the FedEx canteen, Emergency Disaster Service workers provided 247 snacks, 447 drinks, and 29 meals to over 340 first responders actively fighting the fires.Homeless Feeding and OutreachMiami Lunch and Love Program: Since 2022, The Salvation Army of Miami-Dade, Florida has been feeding Miami's growing homeless population through its Lunch and Love program. With the use of a FedEx canteen, volunteers set up their service in one of Miami's "camp cities" for unsheltered homeless. In this quarter, volunteers engaged with 135 homeless individuals and distributed over 100 meals, 135 snack packs and drinks, and 30 first aid kits. Additionally, The Salvation Army provided 12 people with emotional and spiritual support and referred seven (7) people to additional Salvation Army services. As the number of Miami's unsheltered homeless continues to grow, the need for this service is vital; The Salvation Army of Miami-Dade hopes to increase this program from biweekly to weekly feedings.Baltimore FeedMore Program: The Potomac Division of The Salvation Army has established the FeedMore program with the use of a FedEx canteen. Every Friday, the canteen runs a route with 4 set stops throughout the city, so individuals in need know where and when to find the provided resources. 18 Salvation Army officers and volunteers have engaged with over 7,000 Baltimore residents, serving 7,514 meals and snacks, 7,801 drinks, and distributing over 3,000 hygiene kits.Baltimore Cornbread Cafe: Twice a week, The Salvation Army Baltimore Temple Corps in the Potomac Division holds a free feeding program for food-insecure residents. Using the FedEx canteens, Salvation Army volunteers and officers have served thousands of meals, snacks, and drinks, and have distributed 250 hygiene kits. This quarter, Salvation Army officers and volunteers have engaged with 1,186 food-insecure individuals in the Baltimore area with the help of the FedEx canteen.Danville Mobile Feeding Program: The Salvation Army FedEx canteen previously located in the Washington, DC area was approved for relocation to Danville, Virginia. The FedEx canteen was quickly integrated into a new mobile feeding program that serves 45 sites per week and works with multiple community partners to serve those experiencing food insecurity in the community. In Danville, The Salvation Army has formed partnerships with local churches to provide daily assistance to food-insecure individuals in the community. The FedEx canteen is used to serve community members in 45 different feeding locations and have engaged with 447 locals by providing hot meals, snacks, drinks, and hygiene kits to anyone in need.New Orleans Homeless Feeding Program: Every Tuesday and Thursday in New Orleans, Louisiana, Salvation Army disaster workers serve meals to the New Orleans' homeless population. Since April 1st of this year, The Salvation Army Alabama, Louisiana & Mississippi division has served 1,872 homeless individuals by providing thousands of meals, snacks, and drinks with the help of FedEx canteen.Trenton Mobile Feeding Program: Every Friday evening in Trenton, New Jersey, a volunteer-led team takes the canteen to multiple locations in the city to provide prepared meals, pantry boxes, and various other items to vulnerable populations. These populations include the homeless, housing and food insecure, low-income, migrants, and seniors. The Salvation Army-Trenton Corps collaborates regularly with other service providers in Trenton such as Trenton Police, inter PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-18 08:00:21 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 992 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Interim Results for the six-month period ended 30 June 2023LONDON, UK / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Trident Royalties Plc (AIM:TRR)(OTCQB:TDTRF), is pleased to present its interim financial statements to shareholders for the six months ended 30 June 2023.The Interim Results for the period ended 30 June 2023 are set out below and will be available in full on the Company's website https://tridentroyalties.com/ HIGHLIGHTS 45% increase in royalty receipts in H1 2023 compared to H1 2022, with further growth expected in 2024. Sale of several pre-production gold royalties with cash proceeds of up to $15.6 million and a 140% return on invested capital. Solid progress across the portfolio, including the Thacker Pass Lithium Project which is now in construction. Completion of the La Preciosa acquisition, providing Trident with exposure to silver, further increasing the commodity diversification of our portfolio. Post period, the announcement of two further royalty acquisitions over the Dandoko Gold Project in Western Mali, and a royalty over Anson's flagship Paradox Lithium Project in Utah. Admission to the OTC Market in North America, improving investor accessibility and strengthening Trident's presence in the US.Adam Davidson, Chief Executive Officer of Trident commented:"Trident has continued to see material advancements at several key assets, with permitting decisions resulting in the commencement of construction at the Thacker Pass Lithium Project. Deal flow is now accelerating. The La Preciosa transaction completed during the period was then swiftly followed by two deals post-period. All three transactions have enhanced the diversity of our portfolio and are set to contribute to our growing cash flow.It has been a solid start to the year and the Board and I eagerly anticipate sharing further updates as the year progresses." Competent Person's StatementThe technical information contained in this disclosure has been read and approved by Mr Nick O'Reilly (MSc, DIC, MAusIMM, MIMMM, FGS), who is a qualified geologist and acts as the Competent Person under the AIM Rules - Note for Mining and Oil & Gas Companies. Mr O'Reilly is a Principal Consultant working for Mining Analyst Consulting Ltd which has been retained by Trident to provide technical support.All figures in US$ unless otherwise statedContact details:Trident Royalties PlcAdam Davidson / Richard Hughes+1 (757) 208-5171 / +44 7967 589997Grant Thornton (Nominated Adviser)Colin Aaronson / Samantha Harrison / Samuel Littler+44 020 7383 5100Liberum Capital Limited (Joint Broker)Scott Mathieson / Cara Murphy+44 20 3100 2184Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited (Joint Broker)Callum Stewart / Ashton Clanfield+44 20 7710 7600Tamesis Partners LLP (Joint Broker)Richard Greenfield+44 20 3882 2868St Brides Partners Ltd (Financial PR & IR)Susie Geliher / Catherine Leftley+44 20 7236 1177Chairman's StatementIn the six months to 30 June 2023, the price of Trident shares declined by 9.0%, to close the period at 45.5 pence. A decline in the share price is disappointing but reflects the generally cautious market sentiment around growth. Over the same period, the FTSE All Share Precious Metals and Mining Index fell 9.0%, and the AIM All Share Index fell 9.4%.This is my first statement as Chairman, taking over from Paul Smith at our Annual General Meeting in June. I should like to thank Paul for his guidance as Chairman.Our strategy remains unchanged; delivering significant shareholder returns through value accretive transactions across precious, base, battery and bulk materials. As mentioned in our 2022 Annual Report, our priorities for 2023 are to further reduce our cost of capital (as this directly improves our competitiveness) and deploy capital for value. We have a strong balance sheet, which enables us to take advantage of opportunities in this market.As we build our portfolio, we may be 'overweight' in certain minerals for a period of time. But as our portfolio expands, our intention is to have a balanced portfolio of assets reflecting the broader mining sector. Some of the best acquisition opportunities are pre-production royalties. As these assets move to production and generate cashflow, the risks diminish and we can expect an enhanced valuation reflected in our share price.One of our cornerstone assets, Thacker Pass, is an excellent example of a pre-production asset that is advancing towards production. During the period, we saw the United States Federal Court confirm the validity of the permitting process for the project and the commencement of construction on site. In addition, General Motors announced a $650 million equity investment in the project with an accompanying offtake agreement. The project is on track to be the largest lithium producer in North America within the next three years. The cash flow from this royalty, at current lithium prices, should exceed $30 million per annum.Since the start of the year, we completed three transactions, all pre-production assets: La Preciosa (silver), Dandoko (gold) and Paradox (lithium). Each of these assets has a clear pathway to production and is a key asset to the relevant operator. In each case, the use of deferred consideration enabled Trident to optimise our deployment of capital and align our interest in achieving cash flow from these assets with milestone payments to the vendor.La Preciosa is a near production silver project in Mexico. We were delighted to gain exposure to silver, which has the characteristics of a precious metal, and yet combines this with significant industrial use. Since the period end, we announced two further transactions. In August, we announced the acquisition of a royalty over the Dandoko Gold Project, in Western Mali, and a royalty over Anson's flagship Paradox Lithium Project, in Utah. Whilst we are not specifically seeking additional gold or lithium exposure, given our existing holdings in these areas, neither will we shy away from value-accretive transactions.It has been a positive start to the year. We see further great opportunities for the Company through 2023 and beyond and we look forward to updating shareholders as we move through the year.Al Gourley Non-Executive Chairman18 September 2023Chief Executive Officer StatementThe first half of 2023 saw material advancements at several of Trident's key assets alongside the acquisition of a new royalty interest. The new acquisition represents Trident's first exposure to silver, PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-18 08:00:35 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 1017 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 CALGARY, AB / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Valeura Energy Inc. (TSX:VLE)(OTCQX:VLERF) ("Valeura" or the "Company"), the upstream oil and gas company with assets in the Gulf of Thailand and the Thrace Basin of Turkey, is pleased to announce the results of two appraisal wells drilled at the Wassana oil field and to provide an update on plans for restart of production operations.Highlights Two appraisal wells were successfully drilled on flanks of Wassana oil field targeting deeper portions of reservoir; Wells A28 and A28-ST1 confirmed net oil pay of 72 ft and 75 ft respectively and were successful in confirming presence of oil deeper than previously proven; Valeura is currently re-mapping Wassana to integrate the new data and anticipates that the results will yield an increase in its volumetric estimates and could yield an additional approximately 20 production well locations; and On the strength of these results, the Company has commenced a review of development options to expand the production infrastructure which could increase production and extend the field life beyond 2030.Appraisal wellsValeura has drilled two appraisal wells on the flanks of the Wassana oil field to test for suspected additional oil accumulations in the field's Tertiary clastic section. Both wells targeted the deeper portions of the reservoir section (2.0 and 2.1 sands), which holds most of the remaining underdeveloped oil reservoirs in the field. The appraisal programme was driven by the fact that an oil-water contact in this section had not yet been penetrated, implying potential for additional down-dip oil volumes. Further, recently reprocessed 3D seismic data suggested upside in a thickening of the reservoir section in the targeted locations. Both wells were successful in fulfilling these objectives and the Company believes the well results indicate the potential for substantial further development of the field which could yield an increase in production and a significant extension of the field's economic life.The first well, A28, was drilled in the main producing fault block of the field, downdip of existing production wells and encountered 72 ft of net oil pay. While previous reserves estimates were based on a demonstrated oil-down-to depth of 5,517 ft true vertical depth sub-sea ("TVDSS"), the new well has confirmed the presence of oil down to at least 5,594 ft TVDSS, exceeding the Company's expectations for the vertical extent of the oil column. In addition, the well encountered a thicker package of reservoir sands and new oil-filled sands that have not been previously developed.The second well, A28-ST1, was drilled to confirm the presence of oil in an untested area south of the main producing part of the field. The well encountered 75 ft of net oil pay proving the presence of oil in this undeveloped area.Valeura is currently re-mapping the field to integrate the new data and anticipates that the results will yield an increase in its volumetric estimates. These additional volumes will be assessed as part of the Company's next external third-party reserves and resources evaluation. Preliminary analysis indicates that an additional approximately 20 production well targets are now potentially viable within the reservoir section appraised by these two wells. In light of this upside potential, Valeura has begun the concept selection phase of a project to expand the development of the Wassana field. The Company envisages this will involve deploying additional wellhead and oil processing structures to be used as a higher-capacity production hub than is currently available through the existing mobile production facility.The drill rig has since mobilised to the Jasmine oil field where it is commencing a four well drilling programme comprising two production wells and two appraisal wells to support additional production well drilling in 2024. After the programme at Jasmine, the rig is scheduled return to the Nong Yao oil field for a five well infill drilling campaign.Wassana Field production updateIn July 2023, Valeura suspended production operations at the Wassana field in order to undertake a review of safety and operating practices of the field's third-party-owned and operated floating storage and offloading vessel ("FSO"). As a result of this review, Valeura and the FSO's third-party owner have opted to select a new sub-contractor to operate the FSO going forward and are working together to formalise the engagement. The Company intends to implement a phased transition plan resulting in production resuming in Q4 2023.Sean Guest, President and CEO commented:"This is an excellent outcome for the Wassana field and a demonstration of our team's ability to uncover further value-adding subsurface opportunities. As a result of a thorough review of the asset, we are now facing several opportunities to increase the scale of the Wassana field, and see the potential for further reserves development, increased production, and an extension of the field's economic life well into the 2030's.Wassana is shaping up to deliver much more than its original expectations, a characteristic which is consistent with the ultimate recovery we are achieving at our other fields in the Gulf of Thailand.We are also making good strides toward resuming production operations at the field, which prior to the suspension, accounted for approximately 10% of our total aggregate production. We look forward to re-starting under conditions that fit with our high standards for health, safety, and environmental responsibility." For further information, please contact:Valeura Energy Inc. (General Corporate Enquiries) +1 403 237 7102Sean Guest, President and CEOYacine Ben-Meriem, CFOContact@ valeuraenergy.com Valeura Energy Inc. (Investor Enquiries) +1 403 975 6752 / +44 7392 940495Robin James Martin, Vice President, Communications and Investor Relations IR@ valeuraenergy.com Auctus Advisors LLP (Corporate Broker to Valeura) +44 (0) 7711 627 449Jonathan WrightValeura@ auctusadvisors.co.uk CAMARCO (Public Relations, Media Adviser to Valeura) +44 (0) 20 3757 4980Owen Roberts, Billy CleggValeura@ camarco.co.uk About the CompanyValeura Energy Inc. is a Canada-based public company engaged in the exploration, development and production of petroleum and natural gas in Thailand and in Turkey. The Company is pursuing a growth-oriented strategy and intends to re-invest into its producing asset portfolio and to deploy resources toward further organic and inorganic growth in Southeast Asia. Valeura aspires toward value accretive growth for stakeholders while adhering to high standards of environmental, social and governance responsibility.Additional information relating to Valeura is also availabl BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Representatives of the "G.S.Rakovski" Military Academy are paying a visit to Azerbaijan within the framework of the EU's Erasmus program, the Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan told Trend. A meeting with the Bulgarian delegation was held at the Military Administration Institute of the National Defense University. In addition, the issues of training foreign language teachers of the Military Administration Institute, evaluation, preparation of STANAG tests and exchange of experience in the field of curriculum development were discussed at the meeting. The delegation is also scheduled to hold training classes during the visit. PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-18 15:46:42 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 552 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Illumina partners with SD2 to take underserved students through STEM boot campOriginally published on Illumina News CenterNORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Illumina recently hosted 16 San Diego students for an intensive two-week paid summer program, thanks to a partnership with local nonprofit SD2, which gives underrepresented students unique access to STEM education and mentorships.The students, who ranged from high school juniors to college freshmen, came to Illumina's San Diego headquarters to acquire lab skills, network with Illumina employees, and learn about their many STEM career options."It is crucial for Illumina to have a diverse workforce to support genomics and other STEM fields," says Sharon Vidal, the company's global head of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). "By investing in community programs that support equitable access to STEM education early in their education, we can help students see themselves being key contributors as they pursue careers in the life sciences." Seeing themselves in STEMThe program was designed to inspire students from diverse backgrounds and to give Illumina employees a great opportunity to support their community. Illumina and SD2 took a holistic approach to the "boot camp": Many of the participants face food insecurity or lack transportation, so the organizers worked to provide rides and meals. Throughout the two weeks, the intensive curriculum offered students a snapshot of what a career in STEM might look like."We wanted the students to leave with a stronger sense of belonging in STEM," says Karmin Noar, vice president of Strategic Growth at SD2. "Most are low-income, first-generation students who come from underrepresented backgrounds, so it was really important for this to be a paid experience and provide opportunities for them to gain soft and technical skills." During the laboratory sections, the students learned about safety, basic pipetting, library preparation, and the different ways genomics can be applied. They were also given career and personal development support to help them better understand their strengths and tell their stories. Each student created an elevator pitch, wrote a resume, built a LinkedIn profile, and developed a personal brand."There was a massive shift in the way the interns carried themselves from the beginning of the program to the end," says Vanessa Light, Illumina's senior manager of CSR. "By midweek, you could see the confidence in the way they walked the halls and engaged with employees. They knew they had a place at Illumina and were confident in the journey that had brought them here." The program was an eye-opener for many participants. One community college student assumed every Illumina employee had gone straight from high school to a four-year university. By the end of the experience, he had met scientists and other professionals who, like him, were first-generation; they had transferred from community college to a four-year university before landing a job at Illumina. These interactions inspired him to pursue a similar path."This experience changed the trajectory for many of our students," says H. Puentes, SD2 co-founder, president, and CEO. "They left this experience inspired, knowledgeable, and confident to pursue careers in STEM." View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Illumina on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: IlluminaWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/illuminaEmail: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: Illumina Former President Olusegun Olusegun Obasanjo has given insight into why he ordered traditional rulers in Oyo State to stand and then sit. Mr Obasanjo is being widely criticised over the incident which occurred on Friday during the inauguration of two projects in Iseyin, Oyo State, where the former President was special guest of honour. In a short video circulated on the internet, Mr Obasanjo is seen expressing displeasure at the seated monarchs failure to rise and greet the state governor, Seyi Makinde, describing their behaviour as a sign of disrespect for the governor and his office. Speaking in Yoruba, Mr Obasanjo then ordered the seated traditional leaders to rise and greet the state Governor Makinde. The monarchs rose promptly and then sat as commanded. Several people have criticised Mr Obasanjo for tongue-lashing the traditional rulers and ordering them to rise, describing his action as a desecration of Yoruba culture. The Oluwo of Iwo, Abdulrosheed Akanbi, sternly rebuked the former President for his controversial stand up order directed at the monarchs. Oba Akanbi said respect should be earned and not demanded, pointing out that traditional rulers deserve respect from those they encounter. The Oluwo described kingship as a divine institution that should be treated with utmost modesty, courtesy, and respect. He expressed disappointment in the monarchs who complied with Mr Obasanjos directive. The Oluwo then demanded a formal letter of apology from the former president, arguing that Yoruba monarchs should always be treated with respect. But when contacted on the matter on Saturday, Mr Obasanjo told PREMIUM TIMES he acted the way he did because the monarchs displayed utter disrespect for Governor Makinde. I arrived the event venue with the governor, the former president said from South Africa where he was attending the burial of politician Mangosuthu Buthelezi, who died on 9 September at 95. As we arrived, every other person at the venue rose, but they (the monarchs) remained seated. I was surprised because I considered that a breach of protocol and disrespect for the governor. It later became the turn of the governor to speak. As he rose, every other person at the venue, including me, stood up as demanded by protocol and in respect for the governor and his office. Again, the Obas refused to rise. They all remained seated. I then asked people around whether that was the practice in Oyo State. I was told the Obas have always displayed disrespect for their governor. I wondered where they got that from and then decided to speak to them about it. As far as I am concerned, there is constitution and there is culture. By our constitution, the governor is the leader of a state. Everyone must respect him no matter his or her status or age. He deserves respect no matter how young he is and protocols must be observed. That was why I spoke to them the way I did. I wanted them to realise that it is not part of Yoruba culture to disrespect authorities. Respect begets respect and they must learn to deal with their governor with respect if they want to be respected in return. I respect traditional rulers and even when I was President and till today, I treat them with reverence. I prostrate, bow and knee before them as necessary. I respect our culture. But let us also know that there is a Constitution which puts a chairman as head of a local government, a governor as head of a state and a president as head of our country. Whatever we do must be in respect for that arrangement. I am saying there is culture and there is constitution. One must not disturb the other. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The meeting between the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and officials of the federal government on the fuel subsidy removal policy ended in a deadlock Monday evening. The meeting held in Abuja and was attended by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha NLC President, Joe Ajaero, and other leaders. Earlier in the month, the NLC embarked on a two-day nationwide strike to protest the failure of the Nigerian government to proffer lasting solutions to the challenges caused by fuel subsidy removal. The union accused the Nigerian government of failure to implement some of its resolutions from its previous meetings. Earlier, the minister invited the NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) for talks to avert the two-day strike held between 5 and 6 September. However, only the TUC showed up for the meeting, Mr Lalong was quoted by Channels as saying. Meeting On Monday, Mr Lalong emphasized the willingness of the government to cooperate with the union members to address the demands of the union. In recent months, our country has witnessed teething challenges, marked by industrial actions and unrest that have adversely affected the economy. I appear before you today not just as a representative of the government, but as an advocate for constructive dialogue, aspiring to understand your concerns and working hand in hand to find lasting solutions that benefit all Nigerians, Mr Lalong was quoted by Vanguard as saying. I fully acknowledge and appreciate the invaluable role the NLC plays in championing the rights and welfare of our workers. Your dedication and tireless advocacy have been critical in shaping a fair and inclusive work environment and ensuring the well-being of our workforce. We acknowledge the valid grievances that have fueled the recent labour crisis, and we are committed to addressing them in a just and equitable manner. We must also recognize the economic realities that confront us. As we address the concerns of our workforce, we must be mindful of striking a balance that promotes economic growth and secures sustainable progress for our nation. The minister called upon concerned leaders of various bodies to engage in open-minded and constructive dialogue, to enable them bridge any gaps that may exist between the interests of workers and the ultimate goal of driving economic advancement. In the spirit of unity and with utmost commitment to the betterment of our nation, let us seize this opportunity to listen and understand one another. Together, let us explore innovative approaches, reimagining strategies that enhance working conditions and worker benefits while nurturing a robust economy. I am confident that this gathering will produce resolutions that propel our labour sector towards greater strength, and our beloved country towards a brighter future. We eagerly look forward to our discussions today, knowing that the harmonious collaboration between the government and the NLC will facilitate an environment where our workforce thrives, and our economy flourishes, he said. In his response, Mr Ajaero said his team was in the meeting with mixed feelings, to find out whether something will happen or not, as many similar meetings in the past had failed to yield a positive response. He further noted that the past strike actions were a result of the frustration Nigerian workers faced due to the effects of the hardship occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidies. According to him, not one of the agreements with the federal government was addressed despite a series of meetings that were held. We came with mixed feelings whether it would work or not because we have had many meetings, some beyond this level, yet nothing seems to be coming out of it. But I have great optimism in the Nigerian project; we cant stop trying, he said. We are here with that belief that something may happen. But that doubt, that trust gap is what we feared for a long time now and it calls for lamentation. The strike is an effect of a policy that doesnt have a human face. There was no strike before the removal of the fuel subsidy. It was the government that said ask for palliatives, ask for wages and we have asked for it. That warning strike was a product of frustration, up till this moment. Mr Ajaero said that leaders must work together to ensure that they reach a compromise and address the plight of Nigerians. There is the issue of CNG, refineries working, wage award and cash transfer. Of all these agreements, not even one has been addressed by the government and you want us to meet every day. Some of us have been around for a long time and our job is not to go on strike but when you enter into an agreement that agreement should be implemented. Before the warning strike, we raised the issues of palliatives and wage awards and the NURTW. Nobody earning N30,000 or N60,000 will buy fuel for one week. We need to find solutions to all these problems and we have articulated them. Each time we finish they ask for time. They asked for eight weeks, which we gave them. They asked for four weeks, which we gave them. We dont know what to tell our colleagues or members again. We hope that at the end of this meeting, we will have something to tell our members. This is a neck-breaking meeting, he said. PREMIUM TIMES understands that another meeting has been scheduled for a later date. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last governorship election in Kaduna State, Isah Ashiru, has assured his supporters and citizens of the state that his party, the PDP, will triumph at the governorship election tribunal sitting in Kaduna. In a chat with PREMIUM TIMES on Saturday, Mr Ashiru said he was confident he would win at the tribunal when the judgement is delivered. The PDP is challenging the declaration of Uba Sani of the All Progressives Congress as the winner of the 18 March governorship election. Mr Sani polled a total of 730,002 votes to defeat his closest rival, Mr Ashiru, who polled 719,196. The Labour Party (LP) candidate, Jonathan Asake, came in a distant third with 58,283 votes, while the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) candidate, Suleiman Hunkuyi, scored 21,405 votes. Thank you, Premium Times; it was quite an honour to speak with you again. Interestingly, I have never felt so confident about the election tribunal as now that we are waiting for the judgment. We have presented our case, and we are optimistic about the outcome. There is nothing hidden in what we are challenging; we are clear with all our presentations; our lawyers were on it, and they did what was necessary. There are no two ways about it. We are robbed of our winnings. Kaduna people are robbed. They voted for us, and we will get back their mandate and serve them better than they ever had. We are not expecting any contrary judgment other than winning at the tribunal. That is what we are hoping, and Gods willing, it shall be so. All I want to say is to thank the people of Kaduna for standing by us throughout the tribunal sitting. As we await the pronouncement of the judgment by the court. I enjoin the people to remain calm; we shall get back their stolen mandate. PDP rejects results The PDP and Mr Ashiru rejected the results of the election alleging that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared the wrong person winner of the election. Mr Ashiru and the PDP alleged irregularities and electoral fraud during the election. Tribunal sittings At the last sitting of the court in Kaduna, on 3 September, all the parties presented their final written addresses before the tribunal, with APCs Sanis legal team led by a former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Bayo Ojo, SAN, arguing that the petitioners had helped in proving he won the poll fair and square, pointing in particular to the admission of a star witness for the petitioner, Bonett Gwazah, a senior system analyst (SSA) in the VR/ICT Department of INEC in Kaduna State. However, the PDP argued that two conflicting election results emerged from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the governorship election in the state. The partys lead counsel, Oluwole Iyamu, SAN, accused INEC of manipulating the result of the election in favour of Sani. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, on Monday, directed security agencies to rid Sagamu and its environs of cultists and cult-related activities in the state. The governor gave the directive as the police confirmed the arrest of nine suspected cultists following the killing of eight persons over the weekend in Sagamu as rival cult groups clashed. Speaking at a news conference in Abeokuta on Monday, Abiodun Alamutu, the Commissioner of Police, said the remote cause of the clashes was a land transaction that took place in the town. A land was sold and some form of commission or settlement was paid to a cult group by the owner of the land. A rival cult group got to know about the payment and went after members of the other group in a bid to get a share of the commission. The situation degenerated into an attack and counter-attack situation which started from Wednesday and continued till Sunday, leading to the death of eight persons, Mr Alamutu said. The police boss revealed the arrest of some of the kingpins of the rival cult groups. He stated that nine suspects had been arrested over the killings. READ ALSO: He added that two guns and some rounds of cartridges were recovered from the suspects. Investigation, according to the police boss, was ongoing into the killings. Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Local Government Area, Jubril Odulate, has restricted the use of motorcycles in the area between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. daily as authorities battle to restore peace to the troubled town. Meanwhile, Governor Abiodun, in a statement issued in Abeokuta by his spokesperson, Lekan Adeniran, expressed his regret for the avoidable loss of innocent lives and wanton destruction of property by the hoodlums. According to the governor, the police and sister security agencies have been given a matching order to deal ruthlessly and decisively with those disturbing the peace of the town. The governor reiterated his administrations zero tolerance to brigandage and lawlessness, warning that those responsible for the current crisis in the town would find themselves to blame. As a responsible and responsive government, we are very sad with the resurgence of activities of criminal elements under different outlawed groups, raising unnecessary tension in the sleepy town of Sagamu and its environs. Let me categorically state that we are more than determined to put an end quickly to the nefarious activities of these hoodlums and enemies of our people who are hell-bent on truncating the peace of our land. Let these urchins be rest assured that the state will be too hot for them to operate as we are re-evaluating the security architecture for greater surveillance and tactical operation, he said. The governor noted that the new security approach would be implemented in collaboration with the traditional institution, community and religious leaders, youth groups as well as other critical stakeholders. Mr Abiodun, therefore, appealed to the people of the town to provide adequate and useful information to security agencies for prompt response to prevent future occurrences. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print President Bola Tinubu has arrived in New York for the high-level meetings of the 78th session of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly. The UN correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mr Tinubu arrived at the JF Kennedy International Airport in New York at about 6:45 p.m. local time on Sunday. The president is leading the Nigerian delegation to attend the scheduled events of the general assembly from 18 to 26 September what is his first outing in his capacity as the president of Nigeria. The president was received by the Minister of Foreign of Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, the Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the UN, Tijjani Muhammad-Bande, and Dangana Allu, Nigerias Defence Attache, Washington D.C. Mr Tinubus reception was a departure from the usual tradition where officials would line up at the airport to welcome the president. This time, only three officials were there at the airport to receive the president with the other Nigerian officials stationed at the UN Plaza Millenium Hilton Hotel to welcome him. Those at the hotel to welcome him were Nigerias Ambassador to the United States, Uzoma Emenike; Consul General of Nigeria in New York, Lot Egopija; and Consul General in Atlanta, Amina Samaila. Others are Governors Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State; Seyi Makinde of Oyo; Uba Sani of Kaduna; Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe; and AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq of Kwara, among others. Mr Tinubu, in his inaugural statement to the Assembly, will be addressing world leaders in the evening of Tuesday at about 6p.m. local time. The Nigerian leader will be the fifth African leader to speak on day one of the gathering and 14th speaker out of 20 leaders slated to speak on Tuesday. Mr Tinubus address will encompass several issues such as sustainable development, climate change, global cooperation, and the imperative to address inequalities and global humanitarian crises. On Wednesday, the Nigerian president is slated to participate in the high-level dialogue on financing for development. He will attend a high-level meeting on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness, and Response. On Thursday, he will be participating in the UN Secretary Generals Climate Ambition Summit and attend a high-level meeting on Universal Health Coverage. He is also expected to join another high-level panel on reform of the global financial architecture. On Friday, he will be attending the high-level meeting on the fight against tuberculosis. During the week, Mr Tinubu is scheduled to hold several bilateral meetings with world leaders including the presidents of the European Union Commission, Brazil, and South Africa, among others. He will also advance his economic development agenda for aggressive investments attraction in meetings with the global leadership of transnational firms. Among such firms are Microsoft, Meta Technologies, Exxon Mobil, General Electric, and a few others. The theme of the UNGA is: Rebuilding Trust and Reigniting Global Solidarity: Accelerating Action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals towards peace, prosperity, progress, and sustainability for all. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Following a surge in terror attacks in 2020 and 2021, north-eastern Cote dIvoire has since seen a period of relative calm. Violent extremists have not disappeared, however, and are still active in southern Burkina Faso. The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) has documented how the region has provided terror groups with the space to finance, recruit and supply highlighting a dimension of the threat that requires more attention. These dynamics were particularly observed in relation to the livestock economy and illegal gold mining. Areas where violent extremist groups are active in Cote dIvoire Extremist groups have taken advantage of the insecurity their presence creates by offering citizens protection in the Bounkani and Tchologo areas, where they operate or exercise influence, particularly along the border with Burkina Faso. Many cattle owners, breeders, herders and traders collaborate with these groups to prevent the militants from confiscating their animals. Those unwilling to follow suit have no choice but to leave the area or face becoming victims of cattle theft, intimidation, threats of violence or kidnapping. Using these tactics, violent extremist groups have become involved in livestock breeding and trade in parts of the Bounkani and Tchologo. Livestock owners who comply with the militants are allowed to continue their work. But on top of being forced to collaborate with extremists, they have to pay them an annual contribution in cash or kind (oxen). This enabled the armed groups to generate a means of subsistence and income and expand their networks of commercial partners in the livestock trade, including informants, recruiters and couriers. ISS research also revealed the groups involvement in artisanal gold mining, especially in the Comoe National Park and on the Comoe River. Like in the livestock sector, these activities were based on offers of protection, or authorisation for illegal miners to continue their activities. Testimonies from miners and traders operating along the Comoe River suggested the existence of agreements between violent extremists and mining bosses those who finance or manage activities on mining sites. Often though, particularly in the Comoe National Park, the groups have resorted to coercion by confiscating gold from miners. The militants also actively searched for gold in the park. Illegal gold miners told ISS they had encountered extremists with ore detection devices. Terror group members also played the role of financier of artisanal gold mining operations. Miners said that intermediaries acting on behalf of the groups had offered them financial support to continue their mining activities. There are several reasons militants have become established in northern Cote dIvoire and have collaborated with those living there. The lack of essential services (roads, schools, water and health) and a weak state presence in general have left the population feeling abandoned. It has forced them to look for alternative means of earning a living and caring for themselves and their families. Another reason is that the livestock and artisanal mining trades lack sufficient national regulation, allowing terror groups to infiltrate the market and set themselves up as providers of protection. The porous nature of borders is also a factor, giving easy access in and out of the country for militants and all kinds of traffickers and smugglers. Despite government and other efforts in recent years to address the insecurity, including military and social interventions, most of the vulnerabilities persist. Extremist groups need financial, human, logistical and operational resources to function. As long as they are active in southern Burkina Faso, it is unlikely that they will stop trying to mobilise these resources in northern Cote dIvoire. That means the Ivorian authorities and their bilateral and multilateral partners who are helping to prevent the spread of violent extremism must consider this dimension of the threat. Attention must be paid to illicit cross-border economies and the factors enabling them. Understanding and tackling the mechanisms that terrorist groups use to benefit from or shape these economies could limit their ability to operate and expand. Government efforts to regulate artisanal gold mining should continue, and the authorities must team up with organisations representing the livestock economy to effectively implement regulations governing the sector. In particular, greater awareness is needed about the laws dealing with the movement of livestock and grazing areas. Cooperation between Cote dIvoire and its neighbours is essential to deal with the cross-border nature of violent extremism, and the extremist groups efforts to secure the sustenance and finances they need to carry out their mission. This includes not just military and security operations, but improvements in the governance and development of the countries shared border areas. William Assanvo, Senior Researcher, Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Regional Office for West Africa, the Sahel and the Lake Chad Basin (This article was first published by ISS Today, a Premium Times syndication partner. We have their permission to republish). Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Nigerias Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, a professor, has assured that President Bola Tinubu-led federal government will prioritise funding for industry-based research in Nigerias tertiary institutions. Speaking at a meeting with the heads of parastatals and agencies under the education ministry at his office on Monday, Mr Mamman said industry-based research would help accelerate the nations development. The Federal Government is determined to support research linked to the industry so as to synchronise research and the industrial sector in order to accelerate national development, a statement by the ministrys spokesperson, Ben Goong, quoted him as saying. The minister asked members of the academic community to see research beyond promotion and career advancement. According to him, overall national development must take priority over any other considerations. READ ALSO: He, therefore, promised to ensure that industry-based research is encouraged to accelerate national development. On his part, Minister of State for Education Yusuf Sununu expressed the governments determination to support the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) in its efforts to promote industry-based research. He said, The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will do everything humanly possible to clear any obstacle in the way of research funding. Training for 65,000 staff Earlier in his briefing, Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), Sunny Echono, told the Ministers that the fund has in the last two years sponsored over 65,000 staff in tertiary institutions to national and international conferences, workshops and training programmes. Mr Echono also briefed the ministers on critical investments being made by the Fund on high-impact projects, disaster recovery and research grants. He said investments in research in varsities have already led to the production and public presentations of over 60 books in 2022, adding that more books will be published at designated publishing houses across the six geopolitical zones in the coming years. Qosim Suleiman is a reporter at Premium Times in partnership with Report for the World, which matches local newsrooms with talented emerging journalists to report on under-covered issues around the globe. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Security operatives have killed three suspected members of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant wing, the Eastern Security Network in Enugu State, South-east Nigeria. The police spokesperson in the state, Daniel Ndukwe, in a statement on Monday, said the security agencies comprised the police operatives from the state command, personnel of the special forces of the Nigeria Police Force and troops from the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army. Mr Ndukwe, a deputy superintendent of police, said the hoodlums were killed at about 2:15 a.m. on Monday when a combined security team raided their hideout in Ezioha, Mgbowo Community in Awgu Local Government Area of the state. The police spokesperson said the operation followed a tip-off that the hoodlums were planning to enforce a sit-at-home order which was declared by a faction of the IPOB. Three of the hoodlums, who opened fire on the joint team upon sighting them, were neutralized, while several others escaped with severe degrees of gunshot wounds in the ensuing gunfight, he said. Three pump-action guns and 10 machetes were among the items recovered from the hoodlums, according to the police. The police said a manhunt for the fleeing hoodlums was ongoing. READ ALSO: The Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Kanayo Uzuegbu, has commended the joint security operatives for the successful operation, Mr Ndukwe said. Mr Uzuegbu assured residents of the state that security agencies would ensure their safety while they go about their businesses. The police commissioner reiterated the commitment of the police and other security agencies to sustain the onslaught against criminals in the state. He urged the residents to report to the police individuals seen with gunshot injuries around their neighbourhood and also appealed to them to support security agencies with information that will help in crime fighting. Background IPOB, in August 2021, introduced a sit-at-home order every Monday across the South-east to pressure the Nigerian government to release Nnamdi Kanu, who is standing trial for alleged terrorism. The group later suspended the order, in preference for it to be implemented only on days Mr Kanu appears in court. But despite its suspension, residents of the five South-east states Enugu, Ebonyi, Imo, Abia and Anambra have been observing the Monday sit-at-home order, mostly out of fear. IPOB had repeatedly disowned the Monday sit-at-home across the region, saying those who still enforce the order were criminals attempting to blackmail the separatist group. But a pro-Biafran agitator, Simon Ekpa, who leads Autopilot, a faction of IPOB, has continued to declare the sit-at-home in the region, despite being suspended by the IPOB faction led by Mr Kanu. Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, in June, banned the Monday sit-at-home in the state, explaining that the illegal action was killing the spirit of entrepreneurship, commerce and creativity of Igbo people in the region. Following public outcry, Mr Kanu in late July, via a handwritten letter given to Aloy Ejimakor, his special counsel, ordered Mr Ekpa to stop issuing sit-at-home orders in the region. But the pro-Biafran agitator described the letter as fake, and maintained that the illegal action would go on until Mr Kanu speaks to him directly in Finland, a North European country, where he (Ekpa) resides. IPOB is leading the agitation for an independent state of Biafra, which it wants carved out from the South-east and some parts of South-south Nigeria. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. The commander of the Azerbaijani Navy, Vice Admiral Subhan Bekirov, is on a visit to the US at the invitation of the command of the Navy of this country, the Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan told Trend. Bekirov will take part in the 25th International Seapower Symposium, which will be held in Newport with the participation of naval commanders from 90 countries and representatives of various reputable maritime organizations. The main purpose of the event is to hold discussions on such topics as ensuring the navigational safety of maritime transport by the naval forces and civil maritime organizations, as well as organizing a joint combat against possible threats. The feud between Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State and his deputy, Philip Shaibu, appears to have worsened with the governor allegedly denying the deputy governor access to his office. The gate leading to Mr Shaibus office inside the Government House was reportedly locked with chains and heavy padlocks when he arrived there on Monday morning. There were reports recently that the deputy governors office had been relocated outside the Government House, amid the feud between him and Mr Obaseki. But the deputy governor said he had yet to be informed that his office had been relocated outside the Government House. Up till now, I dont have any official communication that I should relocate. The only people that have official communication are my civil servants. The civil servants have official communication but I dont. As I am speaking to you now, I am standing by the gate, Channels TV quoted Mr Shaibu as saying in a phone conversation with an unidentified person. READ ALSO: An aide to the deputy governor, who asked not to be named, told PREMIUM TIMES that Mr Shaibu made unsuccessful efforts to phone the governor before leaving with his aides after waiting for about an hour at the gate. He said Mr Shaibu enquired from the Government House Commandant, Ibrahim Babatunde, who told him that the directive was from the above, apparently referring to the governor. When the Chief Security Officer at the Government House, Wabba Williams, was contacted by the deputy governor, he promised but failed to show up at the gate before the deputy governor left, he said. All that the deputy governor is asking is an official communication to move (to a new office). The movement is not a verbal thing because the office is a creation of law, the aide told this newspaper. The governor has insisted that he does not want the deputy governor around him anymore. But he should do the right thing. We are still expecting his letter, he added. Access your new office instead When contacted on Monday afternoon, an aide to the governor, who asked not to be named, told PREMIUM TIMES that the deputy governors office had since been relocated outside the Government House. The aide said the deputy governor was free to access his new office and not the old office at the Government House. When asked if the deputy governor was officially informed about the relocation of his office outside the Government House, the aide claimed it was announced through the deputy governors media team. The governor cant lock him out because the governor has allocated a new office to him outside the Government House, he said. Background There has been a face-off between Messrs Obaseki and Shaibu after the deputy governor asked a court to stop an alleged plot by the governor to remove him from office. Mr Obaseki has since denied the allegation and, subsequently accused Mr Shaibu of manipulating the youth council election in Edo State because of his (Shaibus) interest to contest for the 2024 governorship election in the state. The feud between the duo appeared to have gotten messier in August when the governor sacked Mr Shaibus aides after the deputy governor staged a walk-out during a colloquium in the state The deputy governor had staged the walkout after his media aides and security details were denied entry at the colloquium organised by the state government to mark the 60th anniversary of the Midwest Referendum in the state. The governor and his deputy had been political allies for several years. In their days in the All Progressives Congress (APC), during the intense political fights between Mr Obaseki and his erstwhile benefactor, Adams Oshiomhole, Mr Shaibu stood solidly behind Governor Obaseki. Mr Oshiomhole, who was the APC national chairman then, blocked Mr Obaseki from getting the APC governorship ticket for his reelection bid, forcing him to move to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Mr Shaibu moved with the governor to the PDP, and both of them got a joint ticket and defeated the APC governorship candidate, Ize-Iyamu Osagie, to win the election. But following the worsening feud between them, Governor Obaseki, earlier this month, told Mr Shaibu, that the emilokan spirit was unacceptable in the states politics and would not work in the 2024 governorship election in the state. Emilokan, a Yoruba word that means it is my turn, was made popular by President Bola Tinubu during his campaign for the 2023 election. The ideology behind the expression as used then by Mr Tinubu was that he had worked for President Muhammadu Buhari to become the first opposition leader to be elected Nigerian president, and therefore it was his (Tinubus) turn to be president after Mr Buhari. By bringing up the emilokan, Governor Obaseki was apparently telling Mr Shaibu not to feel that he was entitled to succeed him because he (Shaibu) had worked and supported him (Obaseki) during his political battles. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Zamfara State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has dismissed a petition by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its governorship candidate, Bello Matawalle, challenging the declaration of Dauda Lawal of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the winner of the 18 March governorship election. Mr Lawal scored 377,726 votes to be declared the winner of the election. Mr Matawalle scored only 311,976 to emerge the first runner-up. Upholding the election of Mr Lawal, the tribunal said the APC failed to prove the allegation of exclusion of the results from Maradun Local Government and that the election was not conducted in some wards in the state. The Chairman of the tribunal, Cordelia Ogadi, also said the petitioner failed to prove the claim that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) didnt comply with electoral rules while conducting the election. The three-man panel of judges also awarded a N500,000 fine against the petitioner, Mr Matawalle. Governor speaks Mr Lawal has described the affirmation of his election as a confirmation of the will of the good people of Zamfara State. A while ago, Dauda Lawal was affirmed as the winner of the March 18, 2023, governorship election at the Zamfara Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Sokoto. The judgement was not surprising but rather an affirmation of the collective decision made by the unwavering people of Zamfara. READ ALSO: Governor Dauda Lawal emerged victorious in the governorship election with an impressive margin of 65,750 votes, the governors spokesperson, Sulaiman Idris said in a statement. Mr Idris said the decision would encourage Mr Lawal to continue his rescue mission in the state Let it be known that this victory belongs to all the people of Zamfara, not just the Governor and his party. The judgement will encourage Governor Lawal to continue with his resolve to fulfil his mandate and work tirelessly to ensure that the people of Zamfara State experience the benefits of good governance. Governor Dauda Lawals rescue mission which began on May 29, 2023 after his administration was sworn in, has already made remarkable strides in improving security, education, infrastructure, and agriculture, Mr Idris added. Mr Matawalle can still appeal the decision of the tribunal at the Court of Appeal, according to Nigerias electoral law. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The police say they are investigating a case of assault on the Ondo State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Adebunmi Osadahun, recorded on Saturday in Iye-Akoko, Akoko North West LGA area of the state A viral video clip shows Mrs Osadahun being molested by a male adult said to be Olumide Awolumate, a chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the area. The incident reportedly occurred during the distribution of palliative items provided by the state government for residents over the removal of fuel subsidy. The commissioner got into trouble with Mr Awolumate while overseeing the distribution of the items. The police say a preliminary investigation revealed that Mr Awolumate attacked the commissioner during a meeting with party members. The police spokesperson in the state, Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, said on Monday that the State Commissioner of Police, Asabi Abiodun, has ordered that a thorough investigation be carried out and the case transferred to the SCID, Akure for further probe into what led to the assault. The state government has also described the incident as a criminal offence. Anywhere in the world, assault is a criminal offence, the state Commissioner for Information, Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, said in a statement on Monday. Assault on a government official on duty is not only criminal, it is an affront to the government, and it is a very serious charge. The state government condemns in unequivocal terms the assault and bodily injury inflicted on the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Adebunmi Osadahun by a man said to be a politician from Iye Akoko, In The course of palliative distribution in Akoko North West local government. Investigation into the incident has begun, and the full weight of the law will be applied to the assailant if found guilty. She further said that the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) law prohibits all forms of violence against persons and provides maximum protection and effective remedies for victims and punishments to offenders. There are better ways to seek remediation or express concerns where necessary, she said. In the distribution of palliatives, we will continue to do our best possible to reach the most vulnerable in our communities and we ask for your understanding and support. The information commissioner urged Ondo State residents to be law-abiding at all times. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print As governor, and later as kingmaker in Lagos State, Bola Ahmed Tinubus policies were more mercantile (for want of a more concise characterisation) than pro-free market. Include the caginess of our political elite in expressing their views about anything, and you struggle to establish when the incumbent president and his administration completed their transition from their previously mercantilist weltanschauung to their new free market convictions. Is there a difference between a shotgun marriage and a union in which both parties come together out of a shared conviction? The tension between the freedom to choose and the inconvenience of anothers options being forced down ones throat suggests that there ought to be. If in the affairs of states, we find that societies are healthier where citizens get to weigh in freely and regularly on the conduct of the affairs of the commonwealth, then by extension one would imagine a union freely entered into superior to a forced one however noble the cause(s) on behalf of which wills are subverted in the latter. This, however, is not to ignore the possibility of the odd shotgun marriage turning out successful. Yet, in politics, more than in marriages, belief is the one ingredient that is in limited supply. We see growing evidence of this, today, in the rise of populist politicians in the advanced economies. In those experiences, politicians are increasingly minded to hitch their fortunes to whichever hobbyhorse is to hand. The illiberal democrats belief that the contradiction, imagined or actual, between real citizens and others (usually immigrants) who would nick their countries and or its values is the more prominent of this trend. On the face of it, no conviction appears stronger than that which drives paranoid nationalisms. If nothing else, true believers seem willing to stint on no sacrifices in their pursuit of its goals including murder and martyrdom. Still, the shifting definition of parties, and the threats they pose, give the pseudo-convictions involved here away. How different from this are the conditions of our local politics? Even here, the tension between us and the others is evidently no less real. From Jihadist Islam in various parts of the North, through the resurgence of a new type of irredentism in the South-West, all the way down to the increasingly clamorous demand for a separate (and national) identity in the East, large portions of our local populations, goaded by politicians of different persuasions, are finding irreconcilable differences between themselves and supposedly minatory non-self-others. Despite the clear threat to the country from these fissiparous tendencies, the more threatening absence of conviction, the one, indeed, that one may blame this salmagundi of paranoid nationalisms on is in the conduct of the nations economic affairs. How to interpret this? All of a sudden, the price mechanism is in vogue. The Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration has tried to free petrol price and the nairas exchange rate. It has, apparently, bitten a bullet that has stymied just about all its predecessors. And it has earned accolades from those who believe that the allocative efficiency of the domestic economy will improve were freer rein given to the forces of demand and supply and a regulatory environment emplaced that prioritises freer markets (the removal of barriers to entry and exit of suppliers) and consumer (choice and) welfare. To make this argument differently, one need ask the question: Is the Tinubu governments embrace of free market solutions a belief thing or did it take one look at the exchequer (emptied by the louche policies of its immediate predecessor) and conclude it had no choice? Nigerias medium-term outlook rests on the answer to this question. What, however, is the full measure of the current federal governments convictions on the husbandry of the economy? As governor, and later as kingmaker in Lagos State, Bola Ahmed Tinubus policies were more mercantile (for want of a more concise characterisation) than pro-free market. Include the caginess of our political elite in expressing their views about anything, and you struggle to establish when the incumbent president and his administration completed their transition from their previously mercantilist weltanschauung to their new free market convictions. Ought we then to worry about how skin deep the latter convictions are? From the mid-1970s, successive Nigerian governments have responded to straitened economic circumstances with a colourful vocabulary: belt-tightening, home-grown alternatives to the structural adjustment programme of the IMF, etc. Through all the measures that these describe, the default message has been attempts to free the fiscus by shifting large cost elements on to consumers. Only for a while, though. For no sooner do crude oil prices rise in global markets, and the now infamous accretions to the external reserves resume, than our governments return to their default state providing nanny and concierge services to select sections of the citizenry. To make this argument differently, one need ask the question: Is the Tinubu governments embrace of free market solutions a belief thing or did it take one look at the exchequer (emptied by the louche policies of its immediate predecessor) and conclude it had no choice? Nigerias medium-term outlook rests on the answer to this question. Uddin Ifeanyi, journalist manque and retired civil servant, can be reached @IfeanyiUddin. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The national target to achieve 70 per cent broadband penetration by 2025 is receiving renewed attention from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), which promises 50 per cent before the end of 2023. This promise was one of the highlights of the special media chat with executive editors and media chiefs in the northern part of the country, hosted by the Executive Chairman of the Commission, Mr Umar Danbatta, to unveil his achievements since the resumption of office till date. At the occasion, Danbatta, who is a professor of engineering, informed the media chiefs that Fifth Generation (5G) services subscriptions have already hit half a million in subscription. He added that the various efforts of the Commission to improve broadband penetration are yielding fruitful results with the current estimates as at July 2023 standing at 47.01 per cent. Using the extant reviewed five-pillar Strategic Vision Plan as building block, Danbatta spoke on 119 milestones achieved under the five strategic pillars, including regulatory excellence, universal broadband, market development, digital economy and strategic collaboration. The NCC Executive Chairman said through effective implementation of the Commissions mandates under his leadership and cooperation of internal and external stakeholders since 2015, telecommunications industry in Nigeria has achieved remarkable milestones under our leadership. While we acknowledge the challenges encountered by the industry, we have also witnessed explosive growth, improved regulatory standards, and digital innovations that have garnered global recognition, he said. While reeling out impressive statistics that have characterised his leadership at NCC from 2015 to date, the EVC said active telephone subscribers had increased from less than 150.7 million to 218.9 million, representing a teledensity growth of 115.70 per cent from 107.87 per cent in 2015. Through stimulating broadband infrastructure across the country, Danbatta said broadband penetration, which stood at 6 per cent in 2015 has increased significantly to 47.01 per cent as of July, 2023, enhancing over 89.73 million subscriptions on 3G, 4G and 5G networks in the country. Additionally, general Internet subscriptions have reached 159.5 million up from less than 100 million in 2015. Also, from eight per cent contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2015, telecommunications sector now contributes 16 per cent quarterly to the Nigerian economy as of the second quarter of 2023. Besides, following the authorization of more telecommunications companies to operate in Nigerias telecoms sector, the investments profile has increased tremendously from $38 billion in 2015 to $75 billion currently and this keeps growing daily. From the sales of Fifth Generation (5G) C-Band Spectrum, the NCC has generated over $847.8 million for the Federal Government, he said. Danbatta, who has received several awards nationally, regionally and globally in recognition of the outstanding performance of Nigerias telecom industry, also listed several achievements recorded since 2015. Other milestones and initiatives recorded aside the regulatory activities that culminated in the landmark launch of 5G services in Nigeria include the introduction of Spectrum Trading Guidelines, re-farming and re-planning certain spectrum band for efficiency, the emplaced collaborative process for the release of C-Band Spectrum by Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited, and introduction of the Expanded Revenue Assurance Solution (ERAS) to address revenue leakages and improve government revenue from the telecoms industry. These initiatives also include Licensing of Satellite Earth Stations, issuing of operating licence to SpaceX Satellite, facilitating the landing of additional submarine Cables, such as the Google 2,000km Equiano subsea Internet cable in 2022, listing of MTN on the Nigerian bourse, licensing of Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs), introduction of new unlicensed millimeter wave spectrum, and regulation of white space spectrum, Danbata said. Also as part of NCCs commitment under Danbattas leadership, the Commission has endowed professorial chairs in some Nigerian universities and committed over N500 million to Research and Development (R&D) in the telecoms sector. The creation of the Digital Economy Department, the mandate to drive the implementation of the indigenous telecoms sector growth through the operation of the Nigeria Office for Developing Indigenous Telecom Sector (NODITS), are also important strides made by the Commission, he said. Danbatta said other consumer-focused initiatives of the Commission have also centered on the establishment of Emergency Communications Centres (ECCs) in over 30 States of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). All these centres are operational, as well as the creation of the Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT). The EVC said these two initiatives have been helping consumers to get succour in times of emergencies as well as ensuring effective protection for telecom consumers while online. The NCC Chief Executive said the Commission has also taken very clear actions on consumer protection, advocacy, information-sharing and education. These include introduction of data roll-over just before the expiration of subscribed data plans, introduction of the 622 toll-free number for lodging service-related complaints to the Commission, the Do-Not-Disturb (DND) 2442 Short Code for tackling the menace of unsolicited text messages, elimination of forceful/deceitful subscriptions to telecom services on mobile networks, tackling the issue of call masking, ensuring effective Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) registration, launching of National Roaming service and reduction of access gaps to telecom services from over 217 to 97, thereby enhancing access to telecom services by more Nigerians, Danbatta said. However, Danbatta said while the industry still faces a number of challenges such as vandalism, securing equitable Right of Way (RoW) from governmental stakeholders, as well as multiple taxation and regulation, the Commission has put framework in place to work with necessary stakeholders to overcome the obstacles posed by these challenges and to sustain the growth trajectory which has been the hallmark of telecoms sector as an enabler of socio-economic development in Nigeria. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board in charge of promoting Irish food and drinks, has officially launched its Spirit of Ireland drinks campaign in Nigeria as part of the Irish governments 2ndtrade mission to West Africa. The trade mission was organised to leverage the success of Irish food and drinks exports to West Africa, of which Nigeria accounts for 36% in Irish dairy, seafood, and drinks. The 2-day Trade Mission in Lagos, sees the Irish Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, engage in a series of high-level meetings with the Ministry for Agriculture and Food Security, the United Nations (UN) World Food Programme and a roundtable discussion with the UN Food and Agricultural Organisation. The visit will also see the Minister and Jim OToole, the CEO of Bord Bia, engage in a series of commercial meetings and trade engagements aimed at strengthening Irelands food market position and business ties in Nigeria. As part of the trade mission in Nigeria, Bord Bia also launched the Spirit of Ireland campaign, a unique training experience delivered by seasoned drinks experts, to tell the story of Irish spirits. The experience tells the history, the renaissance and the future of Irish spirits and provides you with a unique opportunity to hear from some industry innovators across all categories including Irish whiskey, which is the fastest-growing spirits category in the world. At the first African launch of the Spirit of Ireland campaign in Lagos, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue T.D.,said: Given the renaissance Irish spirits is having globally and its growth trajectory in West Africa, launching Spirit of Ireland in Nigeria was the next obvious choice. The programme has been unveiled in seven global markets to date and todays launch demonstrates Irelands commitment to grow the Irish spirits category in the Nigerian market. Bord Bia hosted over 15 Irish spirits companies in Lagos, including Jameson, Grace OMalley, Teeling, Outcast, and The Shed. The CEO of Bord Bia, Jim OToole highlighted,Bord Bia has invested 1 million over the last four years in the Spirit of Ireland and Nigeria is a key export market for Irish drinks in Africa valued at 9 million. Exports of Irish spirits to Nigeria have grown by 200% in the last five years so this programme is being launched at a time when Ireland is front of mind in Nigeria for its whiskey, gin, poitin, and cream liqueur. Through Spirit of Ireland, Bord Bia has developed a dynamic training experience to tell the story of Irish spirits and we are confident that this campaign will positively influence business leads and commercial success for Irish drinks companies in Lagos. Irish spirits are now exported to over 130 countries worldwide. Whiskey is the predominant Irish export to Nigeria, accounting for 80% of exports. Bord Bia is an Irish state agency with the aim of promoting sales of Irish food, drink and horticulture both in Ireland and abroad. Ireland exports 90% of its food and drink, and last year exports amounted to 16.9 billion (euro). Bord Bia works for small producers by promoting and certifying farmers markets, and for bigger producers by offering international marketing services. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The National and State Assembly Elections Petition Tribunal sitting in Jalingo, Taraba State, on Monday, upheld the election of a former speaker of the state House of Assembly, Abel Diah. Mr Diah, who represents Mbanga constituency in the assembly, contested on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Emmanuel Bongo, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), had filed a suit challenging the election of Mr Diah, arguing that he was not a registered member of the APC at the time of the election. Mr Bongo also urged the tribunal to nullify the election, claiming it was marred by irregularities and not in compliance with the Electoral Act and guidelines. Delivering the judgement, the chairman of the tribunal, Benson Ogbu, ruled that the petitioner was not able to provide evidence to prove his case or support his claims. On the issue of party membership, the tribunal held that membership of a political party is an internal affair. He said, it is the prerogative right of a political party to determine who are its members and those to contest elections under the party. The tribunal also said the petitioner failed to prove his claim that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) did not comply with the Electoral Act. The tribunal, therefore, upheld the victory of the former speaker as declared by INEC. Mr Ogbu, while reviewing the petition, declared that all the issues raised and the pieces of evidence tendered before the tribunal were immaterial, saying, therefore, the petition collapsed on failure of proof. Festus Idepefo, counsel of the respondent, expressed satisfaction with the judgement. Mr Bongo can still appeal the judgement of the tribunal at a court of higher jurisdiction. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Academic and non-academic staff unions of the Kaduna state-owned Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, Zaria have issued a one-week ultimatum to the state government to address growing insecurity and poor living and academic conditions in the institution. In a joint press conference by the unions in Zaria, on Sunday, the Chairman of the schools Academic Staff Union of the Polytechnics (ASUP), Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, Usman-Shehu Suleiman, said the employees will go on strike if the government does not meet their demands. Mr Sulaiman said that on June 11, 2021, academic staff, their families, and students were kidnapped at the institution, forcing the state government to replace the schools security guards with military men and some members of the Kaduna State Vigilance Service. He stated that both the military and vigilante personnel were planning to leave due to non-payment of their allowance. The withdrawal of service by the military at the school would put everybody at risk of abduction and other criminal acts. There are informants who will leak this development, he said. He stated that the institutions monthly overhead has not been paid since February. He said this has caused the school to postpone exams and result presentations, and supply identity cards to students, among other things. According to the union head, the school was in its 13th week of resumption and was meant to have begun examinations, but this was not possible due to the non-provision of the booklet. We will issue a one-week ultimatum to the government to address payment of the backlog of allowances, he said. Mahmud Aliyu-Kwarbai, chairman of the non-academic staff union of the polytechnic, said staff members live in constant fear of security breaches. We dont have functional security in the school; our security was withdrawn and replaced by security personnel from Kaduna State Vigilance Service (KadVS). The KadVS personnel attached to the school had left their beat because of the non-payment of their allowances, which led to serious theft and vandalism of school properties, Mr Kwarbai said. The polytechnics Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Shehu, told reporters that the school management was trying to rectify the concerns of the staff members. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Gunmen have abducted a Catholic priest in Enugu State, South-east Nigeria. The victim, Marcellinus Okide, was kidnapped alongside six other persons at about 5 p.m. on Sunday along Eke-Egede-Affa-AKpakwume Nze Road in Udi Local Government Area of the state. Mr Okide, the parish priest at St. Marys Catholic Church, Amofia-Agu Affa, was said to be on his way to the parish when he was abducted by the hoodlums. The kidnappers had contacted families of the abducted victims demanding N100 million ransom to release the cleric and the six others, PREMIUM TIMES gathered. The police spokesperson in Enugu State, Daniel Ndukwe, did not respond to calls and a WhatsApp message seeking his comments. But the spokesperson of the Catholic Diocese of Enugu, Anthony Aneke, confirmed the incident to PREMIUM TIMES on Monday. Mr Aneke, also a Catholic priest, said the hoodlums blocked the road and forced the cleric into their vehicle alongside some others. The spokesperson also confirmed to PREMIUM TIMES that the kidnappers contacted the church authority for ransom, but did not mention the amount being demanded by the hoodlums. This newspaper learnt that some police operatives in the state have been searching several bushes around the area to track down the hoodlums and rescue the abducted victims. Increased kidnap attacks There have been increased attacks by kidnappers in Enugu State in recent times. Several people, including university students and government officials, have been kidnapped lately in the state. Earlier this month, a police officer was killed when suspected kidnappers attempted to abduct some travellers in Ogbeke-Nike, along Ugwogo/Opi/Nsukka Road in Enugu East Local Government Area of the state. The attack occurred about one month after suspected kidnappers killed one person and abducted many travellers along Ugwogo-Neke Odenigbo Road in the council area. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Three membrs of the Oyomesi, the traditional kingmakers in the ancient Yoruba kingdom of Oyo, have accused their leader of stalling the process for the appointment of a new king, the Alaafin. The Basorun of Oyo, Yusuf Akinlade, is the head of the Oyomesi, which is also the highest legislative council of the kingdom. Oba Lamidi Adeyemi was the longest serving Alaafin in the history of Oyo kingdom when he died in April 2022. But his throne has remained vacant nearly 18 months after his death, despite the Oyomesi unanimously recommending Lukman Gbadegesin to Governor Seyi Makinde for the appointment last year. It has since emerged that the governor had rejected Mr Gbadegesins selection on the ground that the kingmakers did not follow due process. The Oyomesi had selected only one name, in line with the old law which was in force when they made their pick from anong 82 contending princes. However, at a press conference in Oyo on Monday, three of the kingmakers said the Basorun, Mr Akinlade, has ignored the directive of the state government to convene another conclave of the traditional council for a fresh nomination, insisting that its job was already done. The three members of the Oyomesi who were at the event are the Agbakin of Oyo, the Samu of Oyo and the Alajagba of Oyo. They said the kingmakers who initially selected Mr Gbadegesin were not properly constituted and that their recommendation has since been rejected by the state government. In their address at the press conference which they all signed, they said one of the seven kingmakers who participated in the selection exercise last year was not qualified to participate because he did so as a warrant chief but was later discovered not to be eligible to be a warrant chief. They continued: The government had directed us to meet and follow due process. Unfortunately, the Basorun who is Chairman and Convener of our meetings decided not to convene any meeting of the Oyomesi since late last year till the present moment. The new member of the kingmakers (ALAJAGBA) has been denied the opportunity of participating in or contributing to the Resolutions of the the kingmakers since his official appointment in 2022 on account of the blunt refusal of the Basorun to comply with the directive of government for due process in our task of recommending a nominee to the government About seven months ago, during an official visit to Oyo, the Governor held a meeting with the Oyomesi and specifically told us of the government decision that due process must be followed in the nomination of candidate for the Alaafin stool. He instructed us to do our duty freely because the government is only interested in the best for Oyo and Yorubaland. Regrettably, Basorun remained adamant, and no meeting of the kingmakers was convened to deliberate on the major issue of nomination or selection of candidate for the stool of the Alaafin. The three kingmakers said the Basorun and some other kingmakers refused to attend a peace meeting called by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mikail Lawal. We are opposed to the Basoruns utter disregard for government directive on due process and his continuing imposition of one of his handpicked chiefs ( Are ago Basorun) as a warrant chief whose letter of appointment is questionable. We are ready to meet with other kingmakers to perform our legitimate duties in accordance with our tradition, custom and the law of the land. However, when contacted over the telephone, the Basorun told PREMIUM TIMES that due diligence has been done and a new Alaafin has been nominated by the kingmakers. The leader of the kingmakers also described his accusers as liars working for pecuniary gains. At my age I dont need to tell lies anymore, you can ask them to produce the paper with which the government rejected our earlier nomination. As a matter of fact these two persons running around now also signed endorsing our unified decision on who was chosen. They have taken us to court and lost because what they are banking on is loads of lies. Let them continue both the people and God is watching them and all of us. PREMIUM TIMES had reported how documents and court papers showed that Mr Gbadegesin, a prince from the Agunloye ruling house, was the choice of the Oyomesi for appointment as the next Alaafin of Oyo. The kingmakers had said they received a list of 82 aspiring princes from the Baba Iyaji of Oyo, the head of the princes, Mukaila Afonja, who by Oyo tradition and the Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration, is empowered to collect the names of aspiring princes from the next ruling house and transmit them to the Basorun, the head of Oyomesi amongst whom one was picked. EDITORS NOTE This story has been slightly re-edited to remove a factual error. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Subscription to paid content Gain access to all that Trend has to offer, as well as to premium, licensed content via subscription or direct purchase through a credit card. The new To Treasure Now and Forever campaign celebrates the beauty, uniqueness, and versatility of natural diamonds LONDON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Lily James poses for the 2023/2024 campaign as part of her global ambassadorship with the Natural Diamond Council. Shot in New York City by photographer Cass Bird, the shoot comprises four looks styled with a variety of natural diamonds to represent a few of life's most brilliant moments. Whether paired with casual streetwear, power tailoring, sophisticated evening wear, or full-blown glamour for a big night out, the campaign celebrates the versatility of natural diamonds. Photographed by Cass Bird, image courtesy of the Natural Diamond Council Photographed by Cass Bird, image courtesy of the Natural Diamond Council Photographed by Cass Bird, image courtesy of the Natural Diamond Council "The talent, integrity, and authenticity Lily brings to the table are the perfect attributes to represent natural diamonds," says David Kellie, CEO of Natural Diamond Council. "It was incredible visiting Botswana for the first time with her last year and now reconnecting in New York to shoot this campaign that will continue to support so many of our retail partners is truly exciting." Ahead of her return to London's West End in Penelope Skinner's Lyonesse, in which she will star alongside Kristin Scott Thomas, Lily sat down with Only Natural Diamonds to reflect on her busy year, her trip to Botswana with the NDC and, of course, the MET Gala. "After visiting Botswana and seeing the positive impact the diamond mining industry has on the surrounding communities and ecosystems, and learning about what goes into sustaining them, it made me want to be even more intentional with the diamond jewellery I wear," shared James, who has served as NDC Global Ambassador since September 2022. "While my own approach to diamond jewellery is continually evolving, I love to go full out on the red carpet but also paring my diamond jewellery down and wearing it with jeans. For me, wearing natural diamonds is about celebrating the sentiment behind who gave me the diamonds and the special moment I think of when I wear them. It was so special to launch my NDC ambassadorship with the To Treasure Now and Forever campaign in my hometown of London. Now, to have the chance to shoot this new campaign in New York City, my home away from home, is a dream come true." The campaign will be amplified by the NDC's global retail partners including luxury independent retailers such as Razny, Hamilton Jewelers and London Jewelers in the US, Malabar in the UAE, and Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group in China. To take a closer look at the natural diamond jewellery featured throughout the campaign visit NaturalDiamonds.com. Additional image and video assets are available here and access to the full behind the scenes video can be found here, courtesy of NDC. The campaign was styled by Rebecca Corbin-Murray. Hair by Halley Brisker at The Wall Group. Make-up by Valeria Ferreira at The Wall Group. ABOUT NATURAL DIAMOND COUNCIL The Natural Diamond Council (NDC) is here to advance the integrity of the modern diamond jewellery industry while educating, inspiring, and protecting consumers. Our Only Natural Diamonds platform is the authoritative publisher on all things natural diamonds including celebrities and pop culture, epic diamonds and jewellery trends, engagements and weddings, and diamond buying guides. In addition, we provide marketing, promotional, and educational services to brands, designers, and retailers, encouraging them to also promote the values of natural diamonds and support our Mission. The NDC is a global organisation whose members' operations span four continents and ten countries including Canada, South Africa, and Botswana. Their operations support the livelihood of 10 million industry employees and their families around the world. The NDC operates out of offices in New York, Shanghai, Mumbai, and Antwerp, with satellite teams in the UK and France. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211435/Natural_Diamond_Council.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211436/Natural_Diamond_Council.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211440/Natural_Diamond_Council.jpg SOURCE Natural Diamond Council As the largest ESG event in China with strong international influence, the conference invited 7 Nobel Prize winners, 34 representatives of top experts and scholars, 48 representatives of entrepreneurs, 56 representatives of international organizations, and special guests, etc. A total of more than 160 guests from home and abroad participated the conference, to discuss how to promote global sustainable development through the implementation of ESG strategies. Before the opening of the 2023 ESG Global Leaders Conference, Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng held a discussion with the Chinese guest representatives attending the conference. At the opening ceremony of the conference, the leaders of the Shanghai Municipal Government delivered the opening speech, after which Wu Jincheng, Director of the Shanghai Municipal Economic and Information Commission, and Gao YunHuang Pu District Party Secretary, together with Deng Qingxu, CEO of Sina Finance, and Chen Wei, General manager of CITIC Press Group, jointly launched the ESG Global Leaders Conference logo. Then, Tu Guangshao, executive director of Shanghai Advanced Institute of Finance and co-Chairman of ESG Leaders Organization Forum, delivered a speech. Collision of thoughts among dozens of top experts and scholars Kevin Kelly, founding editor of the Wired magazine and author of The Next 5000 Days and Excellent Advice for Living and Liu Jun, president of Bank of Communications, discussed the future of human's sustainable development. Seven Noble Prize winners also delivered speeches at the conference, including Michael Levitt, Nobel Prize winner in chemistry, Rajendra Shende, Nobel Peace Prize winner and President of the Green Earth Foundation, Christopher Pissarides, professor of the London School of Economics, Jean Tirole, professor of the University of Toulouse; and Oliver Hart, professor of Harvard University, Bengt Holmstrom, professor emeritus of economics of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Michael Kremer, professor of Harvard University, focusing on topics such as "Thinking about the future of sustainable human development", "Science and technology help man and nature coexist in harmony", and "ESG integration into high-quality development of enterprises", etc.. Bai Chongen, vice chairman of the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce and dean of the School of Economics and Management of Tsinghua University, said that China has made continuous efforts and made great progress in the process of tackling climate change and achieving carbon neutrality in the green transition. If we can establish a more perfect price system, our progress will be faster. Zhu Min, director of the National Institute of Finance at Tsinghua University and former deputy managing director of the International Monetary Fund, pointed out that the world is increasingly inclined to establish a unified global carbon market and make carbon prices explicit. The carbon price explicitation gives the market a price mechanism, which should be reflected in the financial statements, and new rules are needed to reflect in the financial statements. At the same time, heads of international institutions around the world, represented by World Economic Forum, Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), MSCI, International Institute of Green Finance of the Central University of Finance and Economics , International Civil Aviation Organization, and Rainforest Alliance, also discussed how to promote the sustainable development of enterprises through the implementation of ESG strategies. International and domestic entrepreneurs shared their ESG practice experience Enterprises are an important part of the practice of ESG development concept, and the conference also attracted many entrepreneurs and investors who have a lot of practical experience in ESG. Chinese entrepreneurs, represented by Sun Yongcai, Chairman of CRRC Corporation, Ding Xiongjun, chairman of Kweichow Moutai Distillery (Group) Co., Ltd., and chairman of Kweichow Moutai Co., Ltd., Wang Chuanfu, chairman and president of BYD Co., Ltd., and Li Zhenguo, founder and president of LONGi Green Energy, discussed the key role of environmental management, the importance of social responsibility and the significance of sound corporate governance. Guests from multinational enterprises, represented by Tobias Meyer, CEO of DHL Group, Erik Fyrwald, CEO of Syngenta Group, Virginie Helias, Chief Sustainability Officer of Procter & Gamble Company, and Tove Andersen, President and CEO of TOMRA group of Norway, etc. shared their practical experience in sustainable development, and also announced their ambitious goals to achieve carbon neutrality and carbon peak in the future. During the conference, female managers from several companies also shared their views on corporate sustainability. At the same time, entrepreneurs attending the conference also expressed great interest in the development prospects of Shanghai and the opportunities presented by ESG. The conference has created a platform for these companies and investors to communicate, and nurtured potential space for future cooperation. How can global capital markets help ESG development The core values of economic prosperity, environmental sustainability and social justice advocated by ESG are highly compatible with China's important strategic goals such as high-quality development, common prosperity and the realization of "double carbon". With the implementation of the comprehensive registration system with information disclosure as the core, China's securities market is gradually becoming mature, and the importance of ESG information disclosure is gradually emerging. How to better convey ESG concept, strengthen investor relations management, and enable enterprises to effectively carry out ESG work? At the conference, guests from the three major exchanges in Shanghai, Shenzhen and Beijing, as well as brokerages and funds, have a hot discussion on how ESG can help the high-quality development of capital market. During the conference, representatives from a number of overseas exchanges and asset management institutions such as Saudi Exchange, Singapore Exchange, London Stock Exchange, and Amundi Asset Management also shared their thoughts on this proposition. They generally agree that China has shown leadership in green finance development. Mario Gabelli, founder and CEO of Gabelli Capital Management, said "It is clear that China will be a leader in improving environmental change." The conference ended successfully! See you next year In the past three days, we have witnessed an extraordinary gathering of global entrepreneurs, experts and scholars, heads of international institutions and stakeholders, all united by a common goal, that is to speak out for sustainable change and a better future for our planet, around the theme of the conference - "Sustainable economic growth, social development and environmental protection". During the conference, we shared discussions, debates and insights, all these were truly inspiring and ignited our sense of urgency and commitment to ESG practice. As we say goodbye to the 2023 ESG Global Leaders Conference, let's keep the momentum going and continue to be the change force the world needs. Working together, we can create a sustainable future that benefits not only our own businesses, but also our communities and the planet as a whole. We look forward to our continued cooperation in the pursuit of a more sustainable and prosperous world. See you next year! 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NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- monya_, the destination for handcrafted personalized jewelry, is thrilled to announce the launch of its new collection in partnership with renowned interior designer and television personality, Genevieve Gorder. The exciting collaboration combines Genevieve's passion for storytelling with Monya's expert craftsmanship, resulting in a 21-piece collection of zodiac medallions, initial charms, nameplates, and more. The customized jewelry collection includes necklaces, rings, earrings, and bracelets. Zodiac Medallions "Each piece of this collection offers a personal connection to adornment," says Genevieve Gorder. "I see jewelry almost like the skin we wear, something you don't want to take off, which is why I am so excited to partner with Monya to help tell the story of you, your people, and your pride." Genevieve Gorder for Monya is a celebration of individuality, offering a range of timeless customized jewelry that caters to every style and occasion. Every piece in the collection is meticulously handcrafted in Monya's Chicago factory using the finest ethically-sourced materials, including conflict-free stones and recycled silver and gold, ensuring both beauty and longevity. "Monya has always been about celebrating the artistry of jewelry-making and allowing people to express themselves through our creations," says Daniel Wein, Head of Brand at Monya. "Genevieve's passion is evident in everything she does, which is why we are so excited to partner on her first-ever jewelry collection." Available in sterling silver; 10K and 14K solid gold; and with diamonds, each piece is designed to tell a personalized story that can be worn alone or layered and stacked. Now, engraved names of loved ones, meaningful dates and special places traveled can be kept close and worn for years to come. The collection launches September 18 and will be available for purchase exclusively at www.monyajewelry.com/genevieve . About monya_: Monya is the newly-launched personalized jewelry brand designed for every day, the exceptional, and every moment in between. Monya is the first direct-to-consumer brand of the storied Hampden Corporation, a fourth-generation, family-owned jewelry designer and manufacturer. With deep roots in Chicago since 1922, Hampden is among the oldest and most respected personalized jewelry manufacturers in the United States. This legacy of superior quality and American-made craftsmanship is the foundation of Monya's simple elegance. About Genevieve Gorder: Genevieve Gorder's soulful style and open spirit have made her one of America's favorite interior designers for years. A two-time Emmy nominee, she is also the founder and director of the Genevieve Gorder brand, a television host, designer and producer, a home product designer, contributing author, and global ambassador for home and human rights. Gorder has appeared and been featured in over twenty lifestyle shows around the world, and now her passion for storytelling and design comes to life in a new collection of jewelry for Monya. Media Contact: Brittanae Casper 706-207-8126 [email protected] SOURCE Monya Jewelry Globally anticipated luxury resort and casino now accepting reservations ahead of December 13, 2023 grand opening LAS VEGAS, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The iconic Fontainebleau brand has arrived on the Las Vegas Strip as Fontainebleau Las Vegas, the luxury resort and casino brought to life by Fontainebleau Development, announces its global debut set for Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023 pending regulatory approvals. The fulfillment of a long-held vision of Fontainebleau Development Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jeffrey Soffer is in the final stages of construction and is now accepting reservations ahead of its grand opening. "For almost 70 years, the Fontainebleau brand has challenged boundaries and expectations," says Mr. Soffer. "With Fontainebleau Las Vegas, we have transcended aspiration and set the stage for a new era of luxury hospitality defined by innovation, sophistication, and opulence, with an inextricable link to our roots at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach. This building represents a remarkable new chapter in our storied legacy and will be a beacon for those seeking to indulge in the unforgettable." Seamlessly connecting the past, present, and future, the 67-story Fontainebleau Las Vegas the tallest occupiable building in Nevada -- is the first western expansion for the iconic brand. Reflecting the grandeur of its heritage, the resort's 3,644 rooms and suites present an aura of timeless elegance, while incorporating a lavish splendor and distinctive amenities unique to Las Vegas. Designed by Fontainebleau Development's in-house design team, the rooms and suites feature a color palette of blue and silver water tones and dashes of coral-pink, accented by mercury-glass mirrors and brass details. Custom brass bowtie shaped drawer-pulls represent both exquisite attention to detail and a nod to Fontainebleau's history. All luxurious accommodations feature expansive floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views of the Strip. In anticipation of its December opening, guests can book their inaugural stays at Fontainebleau Las Vegas via fontainebleaulasvegas.com . Additionally, the website offers an inside look at the 36 first-to-market restaurant concepts from around the globe opening in December 2023 and throughout 2024. The collection features ten of the Top 100 grossing restaurants in the United States and concepts from award-winning chefs and restaurateurs, including Chef Gabriela Camara, Michelin-starred chefs Masa Ito and Kevin Kim, Alan Yau, Evan Funke, David Grutman, and more. As they plan their visits, guests can also get a glimpse at Fontainebleau Las Vegas' 14,000-square-foot fitness center and 55,000-square-foot Lapis Spa designed by Milan-based Lissoni & Partners. Lapis Spa, arriving in Las Vegas from Fontainebleau Miami Beach, will redefine wellness with an approach that emphasizes personalization and community. The spa offers a full spectrum of wellness-enhancing facilities, including 44 treatment rooms; a purifying salt cave; a healing infrared sauna and invigorating event sauna; rejuvenating lounge areas; men's and women's hydrotherapy lounges as well as a co-ed sensory room with communal healing waters; and 11 luxurious suites offering exclusive spa experiences. "We are thrilled to introduce many of the world-class amenities we are recognized for in Miami alongside our new-to-market offerings at Fontainebleau Las Vegas," says Mr. Soffer. "All of these concepts, infused with the dynamic spirit of the Strip, allow us to create a destination that is the best of all worlds and promises an extraordinary, one-of-a-kind experience for every guest." Additional resort amenities will include a 96,500-square-foot luxury boutique retail district, located on the first two levels of the resort; a six-acre pool district, 550,000-square-feet of customizable, indoor-outdoor meeting space; 150,000 square-feet of gaming space; and the forthcoming LIV and LIV Beach experiences. Fontainebleau Las Vegas resides on nearly 25 acres on the northern end of the Las Vegas Strip. The property, acquired in 2021 by Fontainebleau Development in partnership with Koch Real Estate Investments, will be solely operated by Fontainebleau Development upon its opening. Visitors can book rooms and learn more at fontainebleaulasvegas.com . About Fontainebleau Las Vegas Fontainebleau Las Vegas is a 67-story, vertically integrated luxury resort opening in December 2023. Rooted in the 70-year history of the iconic Fontainebleau brand, Fontainebleau Las Vegas brings a legacy of timeless elegance and unparalleled service to the Strip. The resort's thoughtful design allows guests to move effortlessly among 3,644 luxury hotel rooms and suites, 550,000 square feet of customizable meeting and convention space, more than 150,000 square feet of gaming space, a collection of world-class restaurants and shops, exquisite pools, vibrant nightlife, and vitality-enhancing spa and wellness offerings. Located at 2777 S. Las Vegas Blvd., adjacent to the acclaimed Las Vegas Convention Center expansion, Fontainebleau Las Vegas is created by Fontainebleau Development in partnership with Koch Real Estate Investments. About Fontainebleau Development, LLC Fontainebleau Development, founded by Jeffrey Soffer and led by his partner Brett Mufson, is one of the country's premier real estate development and hospitality groups, with a diverse portfolio that includes properties in the hospitality, gaming, residential, retail, commercial, and luxury services sectors. The company builds, owns, markets, and operates their properties, providing expertise in each stage of a project's life cycle with a relentless focus on delivering the best quality in everything they do. Fontainebleau Development has established a diverse portfolio of premier assets such as Big Easy Casino, Fontainebleau Miami Beach, JW Marriott Turnberry Resort & Spa, Hilton Downtown Nashville, and numerous residential landmarks such as Turnberry Ocean Club, Turnberry Ocean Colony, Porto Vita, the Tresor and Sorrento towers at Fontainebleau Miami Beach. The company has also built nine residential towers in Las Vegas, including Turnberry Towers and Signature (in partnership with MGM Resorts International). Its luxury services division includes Fontainebleau Aviation, Turnberry Yacht Club & Marina, Turnberry Isle Country Club, and some of the highest grossing and well-known nightlife, dining and health and wellness destinations in the world. Over a 70-year history, Fontainebleau has been involved in over 100 projects representing in excess of $38 billion in total transaction value. SOURCE Fontainebleau Las Vegas ALAMEDA, Calif. and TAIPEI, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Acepodia, a clinical stage biotechnology company developing first-in-class cell therapies with its unique Antibody-Cell Conjugation (ACC) and allogeneic gamma delta 2 T-cell platforms to address gaps in cancer care, today announced that Nobel Laureate Carolyn Bertozzi, Ph.D., was recently appointed Chief Scientific Advisor. Dr. Bertozzi's work applying click chemistry to living cells is the basis of Acepodia's ACC platform, and her expertise will support the development and innovation of the company's differentiated therapeutic approach. Dr. Bertozzi's appointment was celebrated at Acepodia's Annual Symposium in San Francisco Bay Area, CA on September 13. "Dr. Bertozzi's Nobel Prize-winning research in click chemistry is the foundational science upon which Acepodia was built, and it is a tremendous honor to have her join us as we advance our programs through the clinic," said Sonny Hsiao, Ph.D., chief executive officer of Acepodia. "My early experience in immune cell therapy which led to the development of our ACC platform began in Dr. Bertozzi's lab, and we are proud to have her support as we work to progress our pipeline of enhanced cell therapies for solid tumors and hematologic cancers." Dr. Bertozzi was awarded the 2022 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for discovering a novel form of click chemistry, known as bioorthogonal chemistry. The revolutionary approach utilizes, bioorthogonal reactions that transpire inside living organism, seamlessly integrating with cellular functions without disrupting the normal functions of a cell. She advanced these reactions that are now used to explore cells, track biological processes and improve disease targeting in cancer more efficiently, moving click chemistry into living organisms. Dr. Bertozzi is the Anne T. and Robert M. Bass Professor of Chemistry at Stanford University and an investigator at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. She is a member of the National Academy of Sciences, National Academy of Medicine and National Academy of Inventors and has been a significant leader in advancing novel approaches to treating a variety of diseases, including cancer. "Acepodia is transforming the current method of cell therapy development with the introduction of antibody-cell conjugation in cancer care, and it is clear that this team is poised to make a significant impact on the treatment landscape," said Dr. Bertozzi. "I look forward to working alongside Dr. Hsiao's team and building on the significant progress the company has made, with the ultimate goal of improving upon existing therapeutic options for patients." As Chief Scientific Advisor, Dr. Bertozzi will lead Acepodia's Scientific Advisory Board in guiding the company's scientific progress and offering insights based on their relevant experience. The esteemed list of members includes experts in immunology and pioneers of innovative strategies to design new therapies. About Acepodia Acepodia is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing first-in-class cell therapies with its unique Antibody-Cell Conjugation (ACC) platform technology to address gaps in cancer care. Leveraging its ACC technology, the company links tumor-targeting antibodies to its proprietary immune cells, such as natural killer and gamma delta T cells to create novel ACE therapies, which have increased binding strength against tumors that express low levels of tumor antigens. Acepodia is made up of seasoned leaders and scientific experts dedicated to advancing its robust pipeline of ACE therapies with the potential to bring innovative, effective, and affordable cell therapies to a broad population of patients across a variety of solid tumors and hematologic cancers. For more information, visit www.acepodia.com and follow Acepodia on Twitter and LinkedIn. SOURCE Acepodia Inc. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Turkiye aims to increase the share of Islamic countries in its exports from 26 percent to 30 percent by 2028 in accordance with the "Export Development Strategy with Islamic Countries", Turkish Trade Minister Omar Bolat said, Trend reports. The minister said efforts are being made to identify potential sectors and products by studying each country's market structure. "We will organize trade delegation meetings and fairs under the coordination of our ministry to increase exports to Muslim countries and promote our export products within the identified potential products and sectors. On the other hand, work is also underway under the Export Promotion and Marketing Review 2028 plan. "A roadmap will be developed for the 'Export Promotion and Marketing Activities' of our exporters to ensure export growth," the minister said. He emphasized that in order to increase exports, various projects will be implemented in the target countries, including conferences, screenings of Turkish TV series, public meetings of actors, etc. According to the minister, the global competitive environment is changing every day, and new concepts, organizations, and tools are emerging, which makes it necessary to work hard and develop different ways and methods to achieve success. "An important place in our ministry's policy is given to projects aimed at ensuring market and product diversity. In this regard, we will increase our exporters' trade and economic cooperation with countries from the Far East to Latin America through the "Far Country Strategy" created to increase our exports to 18 countries with an average distance of 8,500 kilometers," he added. Through this strategy, we aim to increase our exports from $20 billion to $80 billion. In the issue of export financing, which is one of the most important problems for our exporters, we, with the participation of an important shareholder in export investment "Turk Eximbank", have supported our exporters with a total amount of $25.9 billion as of the end of August 2023. We think that Turk Eximbank, whose capital has been increased, will support more exporters with additional credit support in the coming period," the minister emphasized. Omar Bolat also noted that the Export Development Fund (GE A.S.) was launched in March 2022 to expand, support, and facilitate access to finance. "This fund has facilitated access to finance for all our exporters who are trustworthy but have collateral problems, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (KOBI). To date, the fund has guaranteed loans worth 41.7 billion liras ($1.5 billion), and it is planned to guarantee loans worth 90 billion liras ($3.3 billion) by the end of 2023," Bolat summarized. FRANKFURT, Germany, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Anbio, a global leading provider of innovative diagnostic solutions, made a successful exhibition at Medic East Africa 2023 from September 13th to 15th. During the tradeshow, Anbio presented a range of high-quality IVD solutions tailored to local needs, including the Fluorescence Immunoassay (FIA) series, Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) solution, and Lateral Flow (LFA) solution while demonstrating the operation process of our portable single channel FIA analyzer and LAMP devices. Anbio at Medic East Africa 2023 Anbio's handheld point-of-care AF-100S is a single-channel, portable, and rechargeable compact FIA analyzer, allowing users to operate the system in various settings, especially in areas where laboratories aren't available. AF-100S features long battery life, a small size, and an easy-to-use interface, making it ideal for use anywhere, and its high sensitivity and specificity ensure that patients receive accurate results with a wide range of assays. Seventy-eight available assays enable the detection of various analytes, including hormones, cancer markers, cardiac markers, drugs of abuse, inflammation, and infectious diseases. Anbio's LAMP Solution is a diagnostic technique to amplify and detect specific DNA or RNA sequences. The LAMP assay is used for various applications, including detecting infectious diseases, genetic disorders, and foodborne pathogens. Our LAMP solution offered miniaturized analyzers, which are extremely easy to use. The egg-shaped LAMP device is a one-button control capable of delivering fast, sensitive, and specific results for various infectious diseases. It suits over-the-counter (OTC) and point-of-care (POC) diagnostics. We also showcased LFA assays during the show. Anbio's CE-marked LFA assays are suitable for point-of-care and at-home applications. With over 60 available LFA assays, Anbio will continue to invest in R&D and provide customers with more trusted products. Michael Lau, CEO of Anbio commented: "I wanted to thank everyone who visited our booth at Medic East Africa 2023. We had a successful exhibition, and we look forward to providing our IVD products for the betterment of the diagnostic and healthcare system in Africa and globally." About Anbio Biotechnology Anbio Biotechnology is devoted to make contributions for human health and has never stopped our goal to innovate in life sciences. Driven by continuous technical development and integration, resulting from close cooperation with prestigious institutes across the world. Anbio always strives to provide total solutions in clinical diagnosis field, by offering extensive diagnostic products including laboratory and point-of-care products. For more information, please contact us: https://www.anbio.com/contact Follow and connect with Anbio via LinkedIn. SOURCE Anbio Biotechnology CHICAGO, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Since 2013, Rising Medical Solutions' annual Workers' Compensation Benchmarking Study has surveyed more than 3,600 claims leaders and frontline claims professionals on their top operational priorities, challenges, and opportunities, as well as their strategies for improving claim outcomes. Now, with the release of its tenth Study Report, this national research program reveals the trajectory of how claims management has (or has not) progressed over the past decadeultimately delivering a 10-year industry report card. "Reflecting on the challenges and opportunities claims organizations have faced over the past 10 years, it may seem like 'everything and nothing has changed,'" says Rachel Fikes, chief experience officer and program study director at Rising Medical Solutions. "But, by reprising survey questions used since the study's inaugural publication, a clear picture emerges of the industry's claims management advancements as well as entrenched obstacles. Examining this rich, year-over-year data repository not only enables us to identify key trends, it also helps us forecast where the industry is headed." The latest study Report draws upon survey research conducted with claims leaders in the fall/winter of 2022. In addition to quantifying industry progress, the 2022 Report identifies how high-performing claims organizations distinguish themselves across 30-plus data variables to surpass trendlines and less successful peers in navigating persistent industry challenges. Significant performance differentiators include: Identifying and addressing behavioral health/mental health issues Providing staff training on empathy and other soft skills Measuring injured worker satisfaction as a key metric of claims management effectiveness Harnessing performance-based strategies with staff and vendor partners Employing workflow automation and predictive and prescriptive analytics As in prior years, the 2022 Report will be available to all industry stakeholders without cost or obligation as a contribution to the workers' compensation industry. It may be requested here. About the Workers' Compensation Benchmarking Study The Workers' Compensation Benchmarking Study is a national research program examining the complex forces impacting claims management in workers' compensation today. The study's mission is to advance claims management in the industry by providing both quantitative and qualitative data. Through survey research with claims leaders and practitioners nationwide, the program generates actionable intelligence for claims organizations to evaluate priorities, challenges, and strategies amongst their peers. Conceived and directed by Rising Medical Solutions, the ongoing program is a collaboration of industry executives representing diverse organizational perspectives, including the Study's Principal Researcher and Advisory Council: Denise Algire , Director of Health, Albertsons Companies , Director of Health, Albertsons Companies Melissa Burke , PharmD, VP, Head of Client Experience, AmTrust Financial Services , PharmD, VP, Head of Client Experience, AmTrust Financial Services Tyrone Spears , Chief, Workers' Compensation Division, City of Los Angeles , Chief, Workers' Compensation Division, Ben Tebo , JD, VP, Creative Risk Solutions , JD, VP, Creative Risk Solutions Thomas Stark , RVP, Commercial Lines, Encova Insurance , RVP, Commercial Lines, Encova Insurance Sharon Scott , VP, Medical Programs, ESIS , VP, Medical Programs, ESIS Freddy Mistry , AVP, Gallagher Bassett , AVP, Helen Weber , AVP, Head of Medical Strategy, The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. , AVP, Head of Medical Strategy, The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. Adam Seidner , MD, Chief Medical Officer, The Hartford , MD, Chief Medical Officer, The Victoria Kennedy, VP, Workers' Compensation, Linea Solutions Jaclyn Tiger , Sr. Director, Claims, Workers' Compensation, Markel , Sr. Director, Claims, Workers' Compensation, Markel Scott Emery , Executive Claims Analyst, Markel , Executive Claims Analyst, Markel Thomas Wiese , VP, Claims, The MEMIC Group , VP, Claims, The MEMIC Group Michele Fairclough , Medical Services Director, Montana State Fund , Medical Services Director, Montana State Fund Molly Flanagan , AVP, Workers' Compensation Claims, Nationwide Insurance , AVP, Workers' Compensation Claims, Nationwide Insurance Marcos Iglesias , MD, VP, Chief Medical Director, Travelers , MD, VP, Chief Medical Director, Travelers Linda Butler , Director, Claims Management, Walt Disney World Resort , Director, Claims Management, Walt Disney World Resort Brian Trick , Sr. Director, Employee Health & Claims Services, Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. About Rising Medical Solutions Rising Medical Solutions (www.risingms.com) is a national managed care firm that provides medical cost containment and medical care management services to the workers' compensation, auto, liability, and group health markets. Contact: Rachel Fikes, rachel.fikes@risingms.com SOURCE Rising Medical Solutions LLC Leading Coffee Franchise Donating Proceeds from Select Merchandise Sales to Longhopes Donkey Shelter & Leilani Farm Sanctuary DENVER, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii, a leading coffee franchise renowned for its premium sourcing, roasting, and quality 100% Hawaiian coffees and international blends, celebrates its third annual Donkey Week with its philanthropic program: Give A Hoof. The program pays tribute to its namesake the donkeys of Kona, Hawai'i. Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii is proud to continue its partnerships and donation efforts to two nonprofits, Longhopes Donkey Shelter (Colorado)and Leilani Farm Sanctuary (Hawai'i), to support donkeys that find themselves in rescue shelters. Donkey Week begins September 18 and lasts until September 24. For every sale of special edition "Give A Hoof" shirts, travel mugs, and plush donkeys, $1 will be donated from each product sold to support a donkey in need. Customers can purchase this merchandise online at www.badasscoffeestore.com and at participating franchise locations. In participating stores, guests will also receive limited edition "Give A Hoof" stickers with any purchase while supplies last starting September 19. Give A Hoof is an initiative that falls under Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii's Bad Ass For Good program. The initiative proudly represents the hard-working donkeys that inspired the brand name by raising much-needed funds to help rescue wild and abandoned donkeys under threat of destruction and help to create the safe environments that they deserve. The money raised through Give A Hoof will support Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii's sponsored donkeys, Lehua and Sandee, and two new additions, Gideon and Lacey. Legend has it that for generations, donkeys could be heard bellowing as they carried precious loads of coffee beans down the steep mountains of the Big Island. The people of Kona named these hard-working donkeys the "Bad Ass Ones" because of their reliably strong but stubborn nature in carrying their precious cargo. "The 'Give a Hoof' program continues to be a unique way to share some Bad Ass For Good with our customers while also supporting rescue donkeys," said Chris Ruszkowski, CMO of Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii. "We are excited to continue to give back with our third annual Donkey Week celebration this year." Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii was born on the Big Island of Hawaii in 1989 with the dream of sharing American-grown, premium Hawaiian coffee with customers everywhere. In addition to premium coffee from the famous Kona region of the Big Island, Bad Ass Coffee also sources from Kauai and Maui. In addition to premium Hawaiian coffees, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii serves up a full menu of popular blended drinks, signature lattes, cold brews, teas, innovative foods with a Hawaiian twist, and branded merchandise. Bad Ass For Good is a program built to support initiatives led by Bad Ass Coffee and its franchisees who spread the Aloha Spirit in their local communities with care, compassion, and generosity by supporting meaningful causes. The brand also creates company-wide initiatives that support impactful organizations through fundraising, donations, and support. The first program under this umbrella is Cup O' Joe for a Soldier, where donations cover the cost of coffee, while Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii covers the cost of processing and shipping, to send coffee to brave service personnel overseas. Since the program began, over 14,500 bags of coffee have been shipped around the world and continue to receive requests from soldiers who are craving their kick from Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii. For more information about Bad Ass For Good and Give a Hoof, visit https://badasscoffee.com/bad-ass-for-good/. LINK TO IMAGE GALLERY About Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii was born on the Big Island of Hawai'i in 1989 and is dedicated to sharing premium Hawaiian coffees "with a kick" from the Hawaiian Islands through 30 plus U.S. franchise locations with additional shops in various stages of development. Today, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii stores also serve popular blended drinks, teas, food, along with other international premium coffees and sell popular branded merchandise with exceptional service and the Aloha Spirit. Bad Ass Coffees are available in franchise stores, online and will soon be available through grocery, hospitality, and specialty retail channels. The Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii brand and franchise is owned by Royal Aloha Franchise Company, LLC. For more information, visit badasscoffee.com and connect on Facebook and Instagram @badasscoffeeofhawaii. Franchise information is available at badasscoffeefranchise.com. SOURCE Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii CHARLOTTE, N.C., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bank of America Corporation today announced a corrected dividend amount on the Floating Rate Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series F and the Adjustable Rate Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series G, originally announced on July 14, 2023. The regular quarterly cash dividend is $1,521.06667 per share of Series F and $1,521.06667 per share of Series G. Series F and Series G are held by BAC Capital Trust XIII and BAC Capital Trust XIV, respectively. Interests in BAC Capital Trust XIII and BAC Capital Trust XIV are represented by Hybrid Income Term Securities (HITS) listed and traded on the New York Stock Exchange. The cash dividends were payable on September 15, 2023 to shareholders of record as of August 31, 2023. Bank of America Bank of America is one of the world's leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States, serving approximately 68 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 3,900 retail financial centers, approximately 15,000 ATMs (automated teller machines) and award-winning digital banking with approximately 57 million verified digital users. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. Bank of America offers industry-leading support to approximately 4 million small business households through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations across the United States, its territories and more than 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BAC). For more Bank of America news, including dividend announcements and other important information, visit the Bank of America newsroom and register for news email alerts. www.bankofamerica.com Investors May Contact: Lee McEntire, Bank of America Phone: 1.980.388.6780 [email protected] Jonathan G. Blum, Bank of America (Fixed Income) Phone: 1.212.449.3112 [email protected] Reporters May Contact: Bill Halldin, Bank of America Phone: 1.916.724.0093 [email protected] Christopher P. Feeney, Bank of America Phone: 1.980.386.6794 [email protected] SOURCE Bank of America Corporation BROOKFIELD, Wis., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Best Version Media, a leader in advertising solutions for local businesses, has announced a new brand identity to align with the company's impressive growth and continued expansion into the digital space. These exciting updates include redesigned logos, updated colors, and a brand new website that reflects the company's innovative spirit and vision for the future. Best Version Media, a leader in advertising solutions for local businesses, has announced a new brand identity to align with the companys impressive growth and continued expansion into the digital space. BVM started in 2007 with six monthly publications powered by local businesses and readers. Today, the company designs and distributes over 1,200 publications that unite communities and brand local businesses. While print advertising remains at the forefront, BVM now offers complementary digital solutions to create cohesive ad campaigns for businesses across print and digital mediums. The company's revamped branding symbolizes an evolution of the business, and its product offerings, while giving a nod to the past. "We wanted our new branding to exude confidence without losing our original identity," said Mitch Writt, PR Manager at BVM. "We've proven to be one of the best at what we do, and our business is always evolving with new offerings and better opportunities. We wanted our visuals to better communicate our direction for the future." Kevin O'Brien, CEO at Best Version Media, also shared his excitement during a company-wide virtual conference on Thursday. "As our business continues to grow and reach new milestones, our brand identity should reflect that progress," O'Brien said. "This brand evolution allows us to continue adapting to new trends to ensure that our products and messaging are aligned with market demands." Best Version Media is expanding into new communities every month while adding value-driven solutions to its lineup of advertising services. The company works with tens of thousands of local businesses across the U.S. and Canada, aiming to unite the hearts and minds of communities one person, one home, one business at a time. About Best Version Media Best Version Media strengthens communities and connects local businesses to customers with innovative print and digital advertising solutions. Check out the company's new brand identity and learn more about BVM by visiting www.bestversionmedia.com . SOURCE Best Version Media, LLC NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Biopolymers Market size is expected to grow by USD 14.93 billion, accelerating at a CAGR of 10.11% between 2022 to 2027. The increasing demand for PHA-based biodegradable plastics drives the biopolymers market. However, factor such as the cost-effectiveness of conventional plastics over biopolymers may impede market growth. The market is segmented by type (PLA, Bio-PE, Bio-PET, PHA, and Starch and others), end-user (Packaging and food services sector, Agriculture and horticulture, Consumer goods, Automotive, and Others), and geography (Europe, North America, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America). Download free sample report now for more information Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Biopolymers Market 2023-2027 Biopolymers Market 2023-2027: Company Analysis Archer Daniels Midland Co. - The company offers biopolymers and bioplastics in partnership with LG Chem. Technavio provides report with a detailed analysis of 20 companies operating in the biopolymers market including Archer Daniels Midland Co., Arkema Group, BASF SE, Biome Technologies plc, Danimer Scientific Inc., DuPont de Nemours Inc., Eastman Chemical Co., Evonik Industries AG, Galatea Bio Tech Srl, KURARAY Co. Ltd., Merck KGaA, Mitsubishi Chemical Corp., NatureWorks LLC, Novamont S.p.A., Rodenburg Biopolymers B.V., Solanyl Biopolymers Inc., Toray Industries Inc., TotalEnergies Corbion bv, Yield10 Bioscience Inc., and Braskem SA. Get the complete company analysis by Technavio now, download the free sample report here Biopolymers Market 2023-2027: Segmentation The PLA segment is expected to experience substantial growth during the forecast period. PLA, or polylactic acid, is a widely used biodegradable polyester. It has been identified in blood and muscle tissue as a byproduct of glucose metabolism, derived from lactic acid. PLA can be produced from either recycled or non-renewable sources. The chemical polymerization of lactic acid leads to the creation of PLA copolymers. PLA is a preferred choice for biopolymer applications due to its resistance to water. Biopolymers Market 2023-2027: Key Highlights Historic Market Size 2017-2021 CAGR of the market during 2023-2027 Detailed information on factors that will assist biopolymers market growth during the next five years Estimation of the market size and its contribution to the parent market Forecasts on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior The growth of the biopolymers market Analysis of the competitive landscape and detailed information on companies Comprehensive details of factors that will impede the growth of biopolymers market companies Buy the full report for detailed analysis of Biopolymers Market Related Reports: Biopolymers and Bioplastic Market: The biopolymers and bioplastic market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 14.36% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecasted to increase by USD 75.14 billion. Biopolymer Packaging Market: The biopolymer packaging market share is expected to increase by USD 5.39 billion from 2021 to 2026, and the market's growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 11.45%. FAQS How do the major trends impact the market? How big is the North America market? How do the key drivers and challenges impact the market? Table of Contents: Executive Summary Market Landscape Market Sizing Historic Market Sizes Five Forces Analysis Market Segmentation by Type Market Segmentation by End-User Customer Landscape Geographic Landscape Drivers, Challenges, & Trends Company Landscape Company Analysis Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts 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 Infiniti Research, Inc. The growth of the global biosimilar monoclonal antibody market is driven by increase in prevalence of chronic diseases globally, increase in the number of product approvals and increase in the number of patent expirations. PORTLAND, Ore., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Biosimilar Monoclonal Antibody Market by Type (Adalimumab, Bevacizumab, Infliximab, Rituximab, Trastuzumab and Others), Indication (Oncology, Autoimmune Diseases and Others) and End User (Hospitals, Cancer Treatment Centers and Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20232032". According to the report, the global biosimilar monoclonal antibody market was valued for $8.7 billion in 2022 and is estimated to reach $64.6 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 22.2% from 2023 to 2032. Request Sample of the Report on Biosimilar Monoclonal Antibody Market Forecast 2032- https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/3671 Biosimilar antibodies are used for many research applications. Monoclonal antibodies are highly effective in treating a wide range of diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and inflammatory conditions. Prime determinants of growth Increase in prevalence of chronic diseases globally, rise in number of product approvals for biosimilar monoclonal antibodies, and increase in the number of patent expirations are the factors that drive the growth of the global biosimilar monoclonal antibody market. However, intellectual property and legal challenges between originator and biosimilar manufacturers is hampering the biosimilar monoclonal antibody market growth. On the contrary, the growing opportunities in emerging markets and increase in the number of pipeline biosimilar drugs are expected to offer remunerative opportunities for expansion of the biosimilar monoclonal antibody market during the forecast period. Report coverage & details: Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 20232032 Base Year 2022 Market Size in 2022 $8.7 billion Market Size in 2032 $64.6 billion CAGR 22.2 % No. of Pages in Report 293 Segments covered Type, Indication, End User, and Region Drivers Increase in prevalence of chronic diseases Rise in number of product approvals for biosimilar monoclonal antibodies Increase in the number of patent expirations Opportunities Growing opportunities in emerging markets Increase in the number of pipeline biosimilar drugs Restraint Intellectual property and legal challenges between originator and biosimilar manufacturers What is the Impact of Recession 2023 on Biosimilar Monoclonal Antibody Market? The ongoing global recession had a notable impact on the biosimilar monoclonal antibody market. Reduced funding and financial constraints in sectors such as pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, have influenced the dynamics of the biosimilar monoclonal antibody market. Companies, including both, established players and emerging biotech firms, are expected to experience limitations in their research and development budgets, potentially affecting the pace of biosimilar development programs. However, despite these challenges, the demand for more cost-effective treatment options, such as biosimilar monoclonal antibodies, is anticipated to rise, owing to increase in prevalence of chronic diseases and increase in the number of regulatory approvals. Want to Explore More, Connect to our Analyst- https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/connect-to-analyst/3671 The infliximab segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period Based on type, infliximab segment accounted for the largest share in terms of revenue in 2022, accounting for more than one-fourth of the global biosimilar monoclonal antibody market revenue. This is attributed to factors such as expiration of patent for infliximab enabling the introduction of biosimilar versions, offering comparable efficacy and cost-effectiveness. On the other hand, adalimumab segment is expected to witness highest CAGR of 24.0% during the forecast period. This is attributed to adalimumab's wide range of therapeutic applications in treating autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and Crohn's disease, resulting in high demand for cost-effective options, which biosimilar versions offer. In addition, regulatory approvals, increase in physician confidence in prescribing biosimilar adalimumab owing to robust clinical data and rigorous comparability studies, and favorable reimbursement policies in certain regions have collectively propelled the adoption of biosimilar adalimumab, thus contributing to its substantial market growth. The oncology segment is anticipated maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period Based on indication, the oncology segment accounted for the largest share in 2022, accounting for more than half global biosimilar monoclonal antibody market revenue and is expected to register highest CAGR of 22.5% during forecast period, owing to rise in demand for cost-effective potent cancer therapies. Biosimilar monoclonal antibodies offer similar efficacy and safety profiles to original products while being more affordable, driven by patent expirations, supportive regulatory pathways, and growing confidence in their clinical outcomes. The hospitals segment to maintain its lead position during the forecast period Based on end user, the hospital segment accounted for the largest share in 2022, accounting for more than half global biosimilar monoclonal antibody market revenue and is expected to register the highest CAGR of 22.5% during forecast period. This is attributed to increase in adoption of biosimilar mAbs within hospital settings, driven by factors such as cost-effectiveness, expanding patient population and rise in demand for targeted therapies. In addition, hospitals offer better insurance coverage, specialized medical expertise, well equipped infrastructure for complex chronic disease treatments, and wide availability of biosimilar mAbs, thereby fueling the segment growth. For Purchase Inquiry- https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/3671 North America to maintain its dominance by 2032 Based on region, North America accounted for the largest share in, accounting for nearly half global biosimilar monoclonal antibody market revenue owing to factors such as increase in number of regulatory approvals, robust healthcare infrastructure enabling efficient distribution and adoption of biosimilars, strong physician acceptance and patient access, favorable reimbursement policies, advanced research and development manufacturing capabilities, and proactive efforts to raise awareness and education about biosimilar mAbs. However, the Asia-Pacific is anticipated to witness highest CAGR of 23.7% during the forecast period. This is attributed to increase in demand for cost-effective treatments owing to increase in the number of people suffering from chronic diseases , presence of a large and aging population susceptible to chronic diseases, growing investments in biopharmaceutical research and manufacturing capabilities, and collaborations between local and international pharmaceutical companies, which all collectively foster a favorable environment for the adoption and expansion of biosimilar mAbs in the Asia-Pacific market. Leading Market Players: Pfizer Inc. Amgen Inc. Novartis AG Coherus Biosciences, Inc. Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Limited Shanghai Henlius Biotech, Inc. BIOCAD Biocon Celltrion Healthcare Co., Ltd. Biogen The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players of the global biosimilar monoclonal antibody market. These players have adopted different strategies such as collaboration, product launch, agreement, clinical trial approval, acquisition, and product approval to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario. Comprehensive Healthcare Industry Research Studies: Medical Gas Analyzers Market Expected to Reach $325 Million by 2025 Antibiotics Market Expected to Reach $50,374 Million by 2025 Healthcare Chatbot Market Expected to Reach $116.9 Million by 2026 Pharmaceutical Filtration Market Expected to Reach $7.74 Billion by 2026 Drug Delivery Devices Market Expected to Reach $26.7 Billion by 2026 Artificial Cornea and Corneal Implant Market Expected to Reach $656.19 Million by 2028 AVENUE- A Subscription-Based Library (Premium on-demand, subscription-based pricing model) Offered by Allied Market Research: AMR introduces its online premium subscription-based library Avenue, designed specifically to offer cost-effective, one-stop solution for enterprises, investors, and universities. With Avenue, subscribers can avail an entire repository of reports on more than 2,000 niche industries and more than 12,000 company profiles. Moreover, users can get an online access to quantitative and qualitative data in PDF and Excel formats along with analyst support, customization, and updated versions of reports. Get an access to the library of reports at any time from any device and anywhere. For more details, follow the link: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/library-access About Allied Market Research: Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Portland, Oregon. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domains. AMR offers its services across 11 industry verticals including Life Sciences, Consumer Goods, Materials & Chemicals, Construction & Manufacturing, Food & Beverages, Energy & Power, Semiconductor & Electronics, Automotive & Transportation, ICT & Media, Aerospace & Defense, and BFSI. We are in professional corporate relations with various companies and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Allied Market Research CEO Pawan Kumar is instrumental in inspiring and encouraging everyone associated with the company to maintain high quality of data and help clients in every way possible to achieve success. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry. Contact David Correa 5933 NE Win Sivers Drive #205, Portland, OR 97220 United States Toll Free: +1-800-792-5285 UK: +44-845-528-1300 Hong Kong: +852-301-84916 India (Pune): +91-20-66346060 Fax: +1-855-550-5975 [email protected] Web: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com Follow Us on: LinkedIn Twitter Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/636519/Allied_Market_Research_Logo.jpg SOURCE Allied Market Research BIRMINGHAM, Ala., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Walton Financial, a financial planning and investment firm in Birmingham, Ala., is proud to announce that it has once again been recognized as one of Forbes' Best-in-State Wealth Advisors. This accolade reflects Walton Financial's unwavering commitment to providing exceptional financial planning services for clients across Alabama and 31 other states. In celebration of this achievement, founder Scott Walton has been invited to participate in the 2023 Forbes/SHOOK Top Advisor Summit to be held in October at Wynn Las Vegas. The Walton Financial team Scott Walton, founder of Walton Financial This year's Forbes/SHOOK Top Advisor Summit promises to be an outstanding event, with industry-leading experts and renowned speakers. Notably, the summit will feature keynote addresses by renowned economists Jeremy Siegel and David Kelly, chief global strategist for JP Morgan. The summit is set to take place Oct. 2-5, and attendees can anticipate insightful discussions on the current economic landscape and strategies for navigating financial markets. The Top Advisor Summit is one of several constructive business engagements Scott Walton participates in around the world, opportunities to which he attributes much of his firm's continued success. Recently, he was present at the 2023 London Business School/Entrepreneurs' Organization Growth Forum. The forum brought together 74 members of the Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) from various corners of the globe, including representatives from Singapore, Israel, Australia, Germany, and dozens of other countries. 2023 marks the fourth time Walton has been named to the Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors list. This accomplishment underscores Walton Financial's dedication to its independent ethos, setting it apart from captured agents. The firm's commitment to offering an independent planning perspective ensures that clients receive personalized and unbiased financial advice tailored to their unique needs and goals. "It is an honor to be recognized among the best in the industry," Walton says. "At Walton Financial, we take great pride in our commitment to providing clients with comprehensive and independent wealth management solutions. We look forward to engaging with other top advisors and industry leaders at this year's summit to collectively advance our understanding of the ever-changing financial landscape." About Walton Financial: Walton Financial has provided individuals, families, and organizations with financial guidance since 1999. Located in Birmingham, Alabama, the firm prides itself on crafting strategies to meet each client's unique needs and goals. From personal financial, investment and retirement plan design, to insurance counseling and institutional benefit management for small business, the team offers specialized expertise in many areas. Securities and advisory services are offered through Commonwealth Financial Network, Member FINRA, SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser. For more information, please visit waltonfin.com or call 205-871-0154. The practice may be found at 2564 18th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35209. The 2023 ranking of the Forbes' Best-in-State Wealth Advisors1 list was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person and telephone due-diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively and on a ranking algorithm that includes client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, and quantitative criteria (including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms). Overall, 39,007 advisors were considered, and 7,321 (approximately 18.8 percent of candidates) were recognized. The full methodology2 that Forbes developed in partnership with SHOOK Research is available at Forbes.com. 1This recognition and the due-diligence process conducted are not indicative of the advisor's future performance. Your experience may vary. Winners are organized and ranked by state. Some states may have more advisors than others. You are encouraged to conduct your own research to determine if the advisor is right for you. 2Portfolio performance is not a criterion due to varying client objectives and lack of audited data. SHOOK does not receive a fee in exchange for rankings. SOURCE Walton Financial Husband-Wife Duo Brings North America's Original Blow Dry Bar to Raleigh, NC RALEIGH, N.C., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Blo Blow Dry Bar, North America's original blow dry bar and blow dry bar franchise, is happy to announce the opening of its newest location in Raleigh, North Carolina. Located at 815 Springfield Commons Drive Suite 105, the new bar offers guests five signature styles on its hair menu, a la carte options, a variety of hair treatments, plus five signature makeup looks and a brand-new selection of customized looks to provide endless inspiration. Also, the new bar will offer a founder's rate for its signature Mane Squeeze Membership to the first 50 people to sign up. The membership includes two blowouts a month for $75 (normally priced at $55 each), plus $5 off each additional blow out, 10% off retail and makeup services, a complimentary birthday blowout, and a complimentary monthly add-on perk. The new bar is owned and operated by Clarence and Tasha Hartman, a dynamic husband-wife team who are also first-time franchisees. Both have spent a total of 30 combined years in the finance industry, working as accountants. Alongside her finance career, Tasha has vast experience as a personal trainer which sparked her desire to enter the beauty industry and drives her commitment to helping individuals to feel their best and achieve overall wellness. Their first introduction to Blo Blow Dry Bar was as consumers when Tasha discovered a haven where she always left feeling like the best version of herself. When their family moved to Raleigh in 2022, they saw that the nearest Blo Blow Dry Bar was nearly an hour away and the Hartman's realized the great opportunity that laid in front of them. "Clarence and I saw first-hand that North Raleigh was in need of this type of service, and we are thrilled to serve as the solution," said Tasha. "Our belief in the brand coupled with our dedication to helping women look and feel their best, makes Blo Blow Dry Bar the perfect fit." To celebrate the opening, Blo Blow Dry Bar guests will be able to purchase a single discounted blowout for $40, this offer runs from September 29, 2023 through October 8, 2023. "My wife and I have experienced the wonderful services Blo has to offer and we're eager to share that experience with the members of our community," added Clarence. Blo Blow Dry Bar is on a mission to create a space where people of all ages, ethnicities, and orientations are welcomed, represented, and made to feel gorgeous, while emphasizing the need for self-care and wellness. Combining a sophisticated design with a fun and energetic environment, Blo cultivates a seamless and enjoyable experience for guests upon their arrival, during, and after their services. Expertly trained blo-ers are available for consultation seven days a week to meet the needs of all guests. The brand's hair menu includes five signature styles from sleek and straight to bouncy curls, plus a wide assortment of customized looks including updo's and braids. Blo Blow Dry Bar also offers makeup services from expert artists on hand to help guests look and feel amazing for any occasion. Blo Blow Dry Bar is open Monday - Saturday 9 am - 6 pm and Sunday 10 am 6 pm For more information on Blo Blow Dry Bar in Raleigh, please visit https://blomedry.com/blo-north-raleigh/ or call (919)-355-5545. About Blo Blow Dry Bar Blo Blow Dry Bar is North America's original blow dry bar and the world's largest blow dry bar franchise. The company transformed beauty norms and reinvented the salon industry when it launched the "no cuts, no color" concept: only blow outs. Since opening its first location in Canada in 2007, Blo has grown to over 140 locations across the U.S. and Canada and continues to expand rapidly. The brand has also evolved over time, adding makeup services, a membership program, and quality retail products to its bars. With a mission to enhance the lives of those in the community through the power of flawless blow outs and beauty services, Blo Blow Dry Bar offers perfectly styled hair and exceptional customer experiences seven days a week. For more information visit www.blomedry.com. Media Contact: Lauren Kirkley | Fishman Public Relations | [email protected] | (847) 945-1300 SOURCE Blo Blow Dry Bar BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. China wants to foster close cooperation with Azerbaijan in green energy development and energy storage in the future, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Azerbaijan Guo Min said in an exclusive interview with Trend. "China takes notice of Azerbaijan's green reforms and commends its commitment to ecologically sustainable development. China stands as one of the pioneer nations actively participating in renewable energy projects within Azerbaijan. Among the initial set of large-scale initiatives in the realm of new energy undertaken by Chinese firms, there is a 230 MW photovoltaic power plant and a 240 MW wind power facility. Remarkably, the photovoltaic plant's construction has been going on for just six months, poised to transform a 5.5 square kilometer area into an enduring source of prosperity. In the immediate future, the integration of the photovoltaic plant into the national power grid promises to positively reshape Azerbaijan's energy landscape," she added. Guo Min mentioned that concurrently, numerous Chinese companies are actively advancing investment projects in the clean energy sector. These initiatives are poised to deliver not only direct investments and state-of-the-art technologies to Azerbaijan but also bolster employment and expedite industrial growth, the envoy added. "Furthermore, we are delighted to witness an increasing presence of Chinese vehicles, especially those utilizing alternative energy sources, in the Azerbaijani market, warmly received by local residents. China is committed to sustaining collaboration with Azerbaijan and exploring opportunities for engagement in the realms of green energy and electricity. Looking ahead, we aspire to forge a close partnership in the advancement of green energy, energy storage, peak load reduction, energy transmission and conversion, energy efficiency, emission reduction, and the popularization of alternative energy vehicles, alongside the development of supporting infrastructure, among other areas. Our objective is to catalyze the implementation of more projects and invigorate the joint Chinese-Azerbaijani efforts in the green 'One Belt, One Road' initiative," the ambassador added. Chinese business in Karabakh Guo Min noted that at present, several Chinese enterprises are proactively championing investment and construction initiatives for photovoltaic power plants to foster the growth of the local green economy in the liberated territories of Azerbaijan. She pointed out that Chinese enterprises are closely monitoring the progress of the restoration efforts in the liberated regions. "Many companies have conducted research through on-site inspections and have actively participated in various projects, including initiatives like smart villages and the provision of testing equipment for airports. Currently, certain enterprises are actively advancing investment and construction projects focused on photovoltaic power plants, aimed at contributing to the development of the local green economy. Chinese companies are well-informed about the investment promotion measures undertaken by Azerbaijan to bolster infrastructure development in the liberated areas and enhance the overall investment and business environment. Chinese business circles are fully prepared to engage in consultations with the Azerbaijani side regarding specific projects spanning the domains of renewable energy, infrastructure construction, production of building materials, information and communication technologies, and more," added the ambassador. One Belt, One Road The joint construction of One Belt, One Road strongly aligns with the concept of the Middle Corridor, Guo Min said. China is prepared to strengthen transportation cooperation with Azerbaijan as part of joint construction of One Belt, One Road, the envoy added. She noted that China is eager to facilitate exchanges between relevant departments and businesses of both countries, investigating methods to enhance the efficiency of customs clearance and goods transshipment, addressing various issues related to streamlining and standardizing transit transportation procedures, advancing the digitization of logistics and transportation, reducing transport expenses, and enhancing the operational reliability of China-Europe trains, among other areas. "China will also attract major enterprises from the country to engage in investment, construction, and management of transport infrastructure projects along the Belt and Road. We will share our development expertise to leverage the complementary strengths of all stakeholders and collectively foster sustainable growth in regional transportation," she added. The Ambassador underscored China's high regard for the strategic geographical significance of the Middle Corridor, serving as a vital link between Europe and Asia. China also commends its role in enhancing regional connectivity, driving regional economic advancement, and ensuring the stability of global industrial and logistics networks. "The joint construction of One Belt, One Road strongly aligns with the concept of the Middle Corridor. In the realm of transportation infrastructure, China shares common interests with countries along the One Belt, One Road, including Azerbaijan," added Guo Min. She pointed out that China is committed to accelerating connectivity, modernizing infrastructure and services along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor. This year we celebrate ten years of joint implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative. Since its inception, this initiative has garnered widespread international support, including from Azerbaijan. Today, it has evolved into a global public good and a pivotal platform for international cooperation in the pursuit of sustainable global development. As part of the joint implementation of the One Belt, One Road Initiative, Azerbaijan and China respect each other, meet each other halfway and achieve fruitful results in cooperation in various fields. Especially in recent years, under the leadership of the heads of the two states, the high-quality joint construction of One Belt, One Road is deeply intertwined with the Azerbaijan 2030: National priorities for socio-economic development strategy. This collaboration has given rise to numerous cooperation priorities, spanning fields such as logistics and transportation, sustainable environmental practices, processing and manufacturing, and digitalization. Overall, the degree of pragmatic bilateral cooperation is on a continuous upward trajectory, she said. The Ambassador highlighted that the current state of relations between the two countries marks the beginning of a new developmental phase. She emphasized that China is fully prepared to collaborate closely with Azerbaijan, aiming to strengthen strategic mutual trust, enhance policy alignment, and make effective use of cooperation mechanisms like the China-Azerbaijan Intergovernmental Committee on Trade and Economic Cooperation. "China s is eager to promote trade and economic cooperation, simplify trade procedures, foster trade liberalization, and stimulate investment cooperation. We are committed to upholding the principles of collaborative discussion, joint construction, and resource sharing. Furthermore, we stand ready to support enterprises from both nations in unlocking the full potential of cooperation in various sectors, including renewable energy production, energy storage, the digital economy, industrial production, agriculture, and more. In addition to these endeavors, China is dedicated to expediting connectivity improvements, upgrading infrastructure and services along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor, enhancing China-Europe rail freight volumes, and eliminating barriers within regional and international supply chains. Our commitment extends to strengthening cultural and humanitarian ties, encouraging engagement between businesses, academic institutions, and non-governmental sectors of both countries, and diversifying the social foundations that underpin deepening bilateral cooperation. As we look toward the future, I have full confidence that both sides will seize this historic opportunity to bolster unity and cooperation, advancing China-Azerbaijan collaboration within the framework of jointly building the Belt and Road. Together, we will achieve tangible outcomes and make new contributions to the prosperity, stability, peace, and well-being of our peoples, added Guo Min. Trade facilitation The envoy noted that China, in partnership with Azerbaijan, is prepared to explore novel mechanisms and initiatives aimed at broadening the scope of bilateral trade, streamlining trade procedures, and promoting trade liberalization. "Bilateral trade represents a pivotal aspect of practical cooperation between China and Azerbaijan, demonstrating consistent and positive growth in recent years. According to Azerbaijani statistics, the period from January to July 2023 witnessed bilateral trade with China reaching $1.62 billion, marking a notable increase of 41.1 percent compared to the corresponding period in the previous year. China continues to hold its position as Azerbaijan's fourth-largest trading partner and stands as the second-largest source of imports. Presently, China primarily exports high-tech products to Azerbaijan, including machinery, electronic equipment, and automobiles, accounting for more than 50 percent of the total exports. These exports have played a constructive role in advancing Azerbaijan's economic and social development, ultimately enhancing the living standards of its citizens. Furthermore, China actively encourages Azerbaijan to leverage platforms like the China International Import Expo and the China Trade in Services Expo to showcase its high-quality and specialized products. China also extends support to Azerbaijan in establishing national pavilions in China for brand promotion and product sales. Notably, Azerbaijani products such as wine, pomegranate juice, and black tea have been gaining popularity in the Chinese market. Both countries maintain close communication regarding the access of other types of products to the Chinese market, said the ambassador. Guo Min emphasized that China remains committed to offering essential support in advancing the "Made in Azerbaijan" brand. "In collaboration with our Azerbaijani counterparts, we are prepared to explore innovative approaches and initiatives aimed at expanding the scope of bilateral trade, facilitating trade liberalization, and simplifying trade procedures. As the world's largest consumer market, China extends invitations to Azerbaijani companies to introduce an even wider range of Azerbaijani products to Chinese consumers through avenues such as exhibitions and cross-border e-commerce, among others, she added. Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn Merger Sets the Stage for Streamlined Access to Customized Lending Solutions for Small Business Clients Nationwide. CHARLESTON, S.C., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Breakout Capital, a leading fintech company simplifying access to term loans for small businesses, is delighted to announce the successful merger of 12Five Capital, a Chicago-based commercial finance company with a focus on factoring, purchase order financing and asset-based lending. The merger, facilitated by Altriarch Commercial Finance, Inc., the new parent company of both Breakout and 12Five, establishes a strategic alliance with a day-one portfolio exceeding $80 million. The synergistic move unites two enterprises dedicated to addressing the ever-changing needs of small businesses across the United States and sets the stage for further expansion within commercial finance. This strategic alliance aims to establish a comprehensive suite of specialized financial products designed to address the unique challenges that small business owners face. By offering a wider range of products, the combined organization will enhance the client experience with convenient access to term loans, factoring, purchase order financing and asset-based lending, all under one roof. Both companies were founded on the principle of being a trusted lender for businesses struggling to obtain conventional financing. Breakout Capital, founded in 2015, has maintained an unwavering commitment to transparency by encouraging a culture that embraces open lines of communication between borrowers and lenders. Since 2010, 12Five Capital has been serving the needs of emerging businesses that may nd traditional bank nancing unsuitable or inaccessible by offering innovative financing programs with a focus on product education and long-term partnership as the business grows. "At the core of our mission lies a pledge to always put our clients first," said McLean Wilson, CEO and President of Breakout Capital. "With the needs of our clients front and center, we aim to provide personalized support and customized financial solutions that empower business owners to succeed. This strategic merger will not only provide our clients with access to a wider variety of in-house financing options, but it will also reinforce our shared commitment to growth and innovation. Together, we're excited to take the next step toward a brighter financial future for our clients and our business." Ryan Jaskiewicz, CEO of 12Five Capital, added, "I am thrilled about this merger, which is a testament to our unwavering commitment to our core values. At 12Five, we've always believed in running our business not just for profit, but for a purpose. Our culture, built on strong values and driven by technology, has been the backbone of our success. When I founded 12Five, my vision was to provide essential capital to underserved businesses and be their first choice, not the last. Our focus has always been on accelerating our clients' progress in both their businesses and lives, all while upholding the highest standards of ethics and integrity. By joining forces with Breakout Capital, we amplify our commitment to this mission. We share a common culture, values, and a dedication to harnessing technology for innovative solutions that will drive our clients forward." Wilson will serve the combined firm as Co-Chief Executive Officer alongside Danielle Brown who joins the firm also as Co-CEO. Jaskiewicz, who will serve as the firm's Chief Strategy Officer, has been entrusted with the responsibility of corporate strategic planning, technology innovation and leading the highly critical asset-based lending and factoring divisions for the company. His vast experience and expertise in these areas will enable him to execute his crucial role in steering the company towards further growth and product expansion. About Breakout Capital Breakout Capital, headquartered in Charleston, SC, with offices in McLean, VA, is one of the fastest growing fintech companies in the nation, offering transparent and innovative small business lending solutions. As a strong advocate for small business growth, Breakout is dedicated to increased transparency and the adoption of best practices within the alternative capital industry. Since 2015, Breakout has provided nearly $500 million in funding to small businesses in every corner of the U.S. To learn more, visit breakoutfinance.com , or its social media pages on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram and Twitter . About 12Five Capital 12Five Capital provides a variety of business financing services, including factoring, purchase order finance, asset-based lines of credit, inventory, and equipment lending. The company was founded in 2010 to fill a gap in the market and serve an underserved portion of the community by making the business financing process simple for all companies, regardless of size. Since its inception, 12Five has operated based on a strong set of core values and a culture that places a premium on innovation and technology. The company has consistently sought to be the first choice of business financing for its clients by hiring top-quality employees who share its philosophy and mindset. 12Five Capital has become a trusted name in the industry, known for its commitment to providing quality services and unparalleled customer support. The company's emphasis on culture, values, and the integration of cutting-edge technology has been instrumental in its success. This focus is expected to be further enhanced through its merger with Breakout Capital, as the company continues to innovate and create new and transformative solutions for its clients. To learn more, visit 12five.com or its social media pages on LinkedIn , Facebook and Twitter . SOURCE Breakout Capital BTQ Technologies has been selected for the 2023 Canada Quantum Technology R&D Mission to South Korea , marking a significant stride in international quantum collaborations. , marking a significant stride in international quantum collaborations. From October 31st to November 2nd , the delegation, which includes 11 of Canada's quantum technology leaders, will engage with South Korean entities to explore synergies and foster partnerships. , the delegation, which includes 11 of quantum technology leaders, will engage with South Korean entities to explore synergies and foster partnerships. This comes on the heels of South Korea's ambitious strategy to invest over 3 trillion won ( $2.33 billion ) in quantum science and technology by 2035, positioning themselves as a major global player in the quantum arena. VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - BTQ Technologies Corp. (the "Company" or "BTQ") (NEO: BTQ) (FSE: NG3) (OTCQX: BTQQF), a global quantum technology company focused on securing mission-critical networks, is proud to announce its selection for the 2023 Canada Quantum Technology R&D Mission to South Korea. From October 31st to November 2nd, the Canadian delegation, which includes 11 leading companies and institutions in the realms of quantum sensing, quantum computing, and quantum communication, will participate in a series of collaborative events. They aim to meet with South Korean companies, research institutes, academia, and other key players in the quantum technology sector. These meetings are organized by the Canadian Embassy in Seoul and are designed to foster collaboration and partnership. Further details on the Korea-Canada Quantum Innovation Forum and individual interviews will be shared in due course. Joining BTQ Technologies in this esteemed delegation are: 1QBit, Agnostiq, Anyon Systems Inc., Applied Quantum Materials Inc., Good Chemistry Company, GoodLabs Studio, OTI Lumionics Inc., Xanadu, Quantum Valley Ideas Lab, and Quebec Quantique. "We are honored to be chosen as part of the 2023 Canada Quantum Technology R&D Mission to South Korea. This selection is a testament to the hard work and innovation that the entire BTQ team brings to the quantum space. South Korea's pioneering advancements in quantum technologies align well with our mission and goals. This collaboration represents a significant opportunity not just for BTQ, but for Canada and South Korea to further their footprints in the global quantum landscape. We are eager to engage, share knowledge, and explore synergies with our South Korean counterparts, believing that together, we can usher in the next wave of quantum breakthroughs." says Olivier Roussy Newton, CEO of BTQ. Earlier this year, South Korea announced plans to invest over 3 trillion won ($2.33 billion) in quantum science and technology by 2035. This signals the country's ambition to position itself as a global heavyweight in the domain. The nation's roadmap includes augmenting the quantum researcher base seven-fold to 2,500 and nurturing home-grown expertise in quantum computing and advanced quantum sensors. Strategic partnerships with global giants such as IBM and IonQ are also on the cards. With a history steeped in quantum technology R&D and a robust private sector engagement, South Korea is well-poised for this quantum leap. About BTQ BTQ was founded by a group of post-quantum cryptographers with an interest in addressing the urgent security threat posed by large-scale universal quantum computers. With the support of leading research institutes and universities, BTQ is combining software and hardware to safeguard critical networks using unique post-quantum services and solutions. Connect with BTQ: Website | LinkedIn ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Olivier Roussy Newton CEO, Director Neither the NEO nor its Regulation Services Provider 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 Information Certain statements herein contain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking statements or information include but are not limited to statements or information with respect to the business plans of the Company, including with respect to its research partnerships, and anticipated markets in which the Company may be listing its common shares. Forward-looking statements or information often can be identified by the use of words such as "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "plan" or "may" and the variations of these words are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. The Company has made numerous assumptions including among other things, assumptions about general business and economic conditions, the development of post-quantum algorithms and quantum vulnerabilities, and the quantum computing industry generally. The foregoing list of assumptions is not exhaustive. Although management of the Company believes that the assumptions made and the expectations represented by such statements or information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that forward-looking statements or information herein will prove to be accurate. Forward-looking statements and information are based on assumptions and involve known and unknown risks which may cause actual results to be materially different from any future results, expressed or implied, by such forward-looking statements or information. These factors include risks relating to: the availability of financing for the Company; business and economic conditions in the post-quantum and encryption computing industries generally; the speculative nature of the Company's research and development programs; the supply and demand for labour and technological post-quantum and encryption technology; unanticipated events related to regulatory and licensing matters and environmental matters; changes in general economic conditions or conditions in the financial markets; changes in laws (including regulations respecting blockchains); risks related to the direct and indirect impact of COVID-19 including, but not limited to, its impact on general economic conditions, the ability to obtain financing as required, and causing potential delays to research and development activities; and other risk factors as detailed from time to time. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. SOURCE BTQ Technologies Corp. GUANGZHOU, China, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On September 13th, Canton Biologics Co., Ltd. announced that it had recently completed a Series C financing round exceeding 300 million yuan. This round of financing was led by SDIC Venture Capital, with participation from Guangdong Technology Financial Group, Taipu Life Science Investment, and Chnin Financial. The funds raised in this round will be channeled towards advancing the company's R&D in novel biotechnologies, scaling commercial production capabilities, and expanding its global strategic footprint. Founded in Guangzhou in 2016, Canton Biologics specializes in the large molecule biopharmaceutical CDMO sector, offering end-to-end services from biopharmaceutical CMC development to commercial production and global clinical supply. The company has achieved outstanding results in high-yield cell line development, complex protein expression capabilities, and robust international manufacturing capabilities. Notably, the company has made significant advancements in the lgM molecule expression platform, expression host cells, high-density cell culture, new formulations, and analytical methodologies. In a testament to their operational efficiency, Canton Biologics achieved a milestone by transitioning from DNA synthesis to CMC production in a mere 7 months, facilitating the swift progression from customers' therapeutics into clinical trials. Dr. Xiao Shen, founder and CEO of Canton Biologics , said, "I am deeply grateful to the investors in this round for recognizing Canton Biologics' technical expertise and growth potential. From our inception, we've been anchored by values of 'reliability, efficiency, and innovation', and inspired by our vision of empowering future with biotechnology. This financing round will further bolster our progress in biotechnological R&D, strengthen our global presence, perpetually support our partners, and ultimately serve more patients." The lead investor, SDIC Venture Capital, holds a bullish outlook on Canton Biologics' prospective growth and global expansion, because Canton Biologics is a flagship entity in the large molecule drug CDMO sphere, with extensive expertise and robust technical foundations in areas such as proprietary cell line development, pre-clinical pharmaceutical formulation, large-scale commercial manufacturing, and integrated clinical supply chain management. The co-investor, Guangdong Technology Financial Group, stated that Canton Biologics' accelerated growth plays a strategic role in enhancing the R&D outsourcing landscape within Guangdong province. The co-investor, Taipu Life Science Investment, also have a favorable view of Canton Biologics as it boasts a global perspective, a commitment to customer-centric service, a dynamic management cadre, an innovative technical team, and robust capabilities in the industrialization of biotechnologies. SOURCE Canton Biologics Co., Ltd. JODI ALLEN JOINS THE MAKERS OF LEADING SMALL KITCHEN APPLIANCE BRANDS, NUTRIBULLET AND MAGIC BULLET, TO DRIVE STRATEGIC GROWTH FOR THE COMPANY'S GLOBAL PORTFOLIO OF INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS LOS ANGELES, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, California-based appliance company Capital Brands known for the nutribullet and magic bullet brands announced Jodi Allen as its new President effective September 12, 2023. Allen will report to Mike Prager, CEO of De'Longhi Group North America, Inc. which acquired Capital Brands in 2020. In this role, Allen will be responsible for driving strategic growth for the company's global portfolio of innovative products that serve over 80 million customers worldwide. "With her breadth of experience in branding, innovation and building trusted retailer partnerships, we are thrilled to have Jodi lead our global business growth plans," said Prager. Allen brings broad expertise from the home and appliance categories, holding roles across marketing, general management, product innovation, strategy and finance. She has had a long and successful career driving innovation and growth for globally loved and recognized brands. Allen most recently served as Behr Paint Company's Global Chief Marketing Officer driving record market share, sales and profit growth. Prior to Behr, she spent over a decade at Whirlpool Corporation in various executive roles for the global consumer appliance company including General Manager where she had P&L accountability overseeing the dishwasher business for industry-leading brands such as KitchenAid, Maytag and Whirlpool. Allen also held the top marketing role at Sealy Mattresses where she introduced new product category innovations and breakthrough advertising that drove record revenue and profit growth. "I see incredible opportunity for the nutribullet and magic bullet brands and their unique purpose to make healthy living easier for everyone," said Allen. "I am excited to jump in and start collaborating with our talented team members, valued retail partners and loyal consumers to deliver consistent growth as an innovative leader in the category." In addition to her extensive experience, Allen holds a bachelor's degree in finance from The Ohio State University and an MBA from the University of Dayton Graduate School of Business. About Capital Brands We believe that good nutrition has the power to transform lives and that everyone deserves the best. Our goal is to make nutrition simple, easy, and impactful. Since 2003, our company has been on a mission to inspire and enable transformational nutrition for people all around the world. We do this by designing and delivering an ecosystem of products and services that strive to integrate better nutrition into everyday life; in under 60 seconds, our personal blenders transform cold and room-temperature ingredients into simple and nutritious blends. With over 80 million happy customers worldwide, nutribullet is the #1 Single Serve Blender brand in the U.S.*. Our family of products is available directly from nutribullet.com and Amazon, at most major North American retailers, and in numerous countries across the globe. About De'Longhi The De'Longhi Group is based in Treviso, Italy and is on the forefront of the small domestic appliance industry with a range of premium products under the internationally renowned brands: De'Longhi, Kenwood, Braun and Nutribullet. The De'Longhi Group is committed to continuing their mission to create exceptional products that improve the lives' of the consumer through innovative technologies and unparalleled design. *Source: Circana, Retail Tracking Service, Unit sales, January 2023-June 2023 Media Contact: Meghan Kelly 630-360-0020 [email protected] SOURCE Capital Brands Firm adds program features for plan sponsors to make retirement accessible for underserved community LOS ANGELES, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Capital Group, one of the world's largest and most experienced active investment managers, has launched an enhanced version of its white-labeled employee engagement program ICanRetire to serve the needs of plan sponsors and employees in the Hispanic community1. Launched in 2021 as a complement to American Funds' target date strategies, the ICanRetire program includes tailored tools and resources that educate employees on retirement planning and inspire them to save more. ICanRetire Homepage ICanRetire Why Now? in Spanish The number of Hispanic workers in the U.S. labor force is projected to reach 35.9 million in 2030, but this segment is disproportionately less prepared for retirement compared to other groups, with more than two-thirds of Hispanic households not utilizing saving vehicles such as 401(k) plans2. "The ethnic disparities in retirement savings are a growing problem in America, especially in the Hispanic community, historically an underserved part of the population. To help break this cycle, we must acknowledge some of the dynamics that influence views on money and investing," said Vidhi Sanders, head of Participant Outcomes at Capital Group. "The enhancements we've made to ICanRetire are informed by our initial research which uncovered barriers such as language, access to financial education and emotional connections with money." The ICanRetire program has evolved to create a more personalized and engaging experience for both plan sponsors and their employees: Richer insights Since its launch, ICanRetire has featured a simple and fun personality quiz to engage employees and match them to the right resources to keep them engaged, informed and progressing toward their retirement goals. Based on Capital Group's research, these resources are now informed by richer insights for Hispanic participants, including cultural background, family role and dynamics, and preferred language. Every participant's profile and needs will be different, for example: Participant "Jocelyn," a 33-year-old first-generation college graduate born in the U.S., may prefer to receive retirement planning information in English and her current retirement contribution rate is 3%. One of her top concerns is how to save for retirement while also saving for her first home. She's also worried about her parents and the role she may have to play in supporting their retirement. Whereas participant "Miguel," aged 57 and born outside the U.S., may prefer to receive content in Spanish and his current contribution rate is 0%. He believes investing in real estate is a more reliable, and tangible, retirement strategy. The data-driven program analyzes the participant's age, financial experience and other factors to deliver a tailored and culturally relevant user experience. Spanish Language The site now features a custom experience available in Spanish. A new language-search capability allows plan sponsors to opt in or out of a webpage translation, equipping the user with greater control of the platform to make decisions that meet their needs. Candid Conversations ICanRetire has partnered with the Recording Academy's GRAMMY Museum to develop a video series "Money, Music, and Your Future". Each exclusive segment is hosted on the platform and shares a candid conversation with a musical artist, highlighting their personal cultural experiences and unique perspectives on financial planning for a better future. Newly featured personalities include the artists and producers Claudia Brant and Cheche Alara who discuss how their upbringing in Argentina and the socio-economic conditions they grew up in impact the way they think about money and investing. ICanRetire is available through employers that have Capital Group Target Date / American Funds Target Date funds on their investment line up (in 401k or 403b plans). For more information visit http://www.icanretire.com/. The ICanRetire web experience is already available to Capital Group's Plan Premier and Recordkeeper Direct clients. 1Along with robust research and analysis of peer-reviewed articles and government publications, Capital Group conducted a series of in-depth interviews and conversations with a representative mix of Hispanic consumers. The definition of Hispanic for this research is respondents who see themselves as Hispanic or Latin American origin (except those from Brazil or Spain) regardless of whether they were born and their primary language. Capital Group performed online research with 45 people, which was followed by 30-minute in-depth virtual conversations and in-home interviews with a subset of that group to delve deeper into the key learnings gleaned from the virtual interviews. 2U.S. Department of Labor data. About Capital Group Capital Group, home of American Funds, has been singularly focused on delivering superior results for long-term investors using high-conviction portfolios, rigorous research, and individual accountability since 1931. As of June 30, 2023, Capital Group manages more than $2.3 trillion in equity and fixed-income assets for millions of individuals and institutional investors around the world. Capital Group manages equity assets through three investment groups. These groups make investment and proxy voting decisions independently. Fixed-income investment professionals provide fixed-income research and investment management across the Capital organization; however, for securities with equity characteristics, they act solely on behalf of one of the three equity investment groups. For more information, visit capitalgroup.com. Media Contact: Natalie Marin, Capital Group Tel: 213-615-4508 Mobile: 917-575-1528 Natalie.marin@capgroup.com SOURCE Capital Group HERZLIYA, Israel, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Carambola, a trailblazer in online advertising, announces innovative product features that will reshape the landscape of digital advertising. The new features promise to deepen the customer experience, allowing meaningful brand-consumer connection, boosting user engagement, and ultimately driving revenue for publishing websites implementing its technology. Since 2011, Carambola has continuously revolutionized the digital advertising landscape by delivering highly contextualized advertising, relevant content tailored to the users' interests and currents browsing context without being invasive. Their specialized creative team goes beyond the traditional advertising norms by crafting visually stunning and interactive advertising. Blending in related quizzes, polls, trivia games and more with organic content actively engaging the audience with the ads. For over a decade, Carambola has earned the trust of a vast network of publishers, and cultivated strong partnerships with various backgrounds, ranging from popular websites to influential content creators. This extensive network has allowed Carambola to expand its reach across numerous online platforms, enabling advertisers to connect with both niche audiences and mass markets alike. In 2022, Carambola joined forces with FireArc, a leading technological powerhouse, to supercharge Carambola's distribution, technological capabilities, and resources. This strategic acquisition, fueled by a shared vision of pushing technological boundaries, has armed Carambola with the resources and expertise needed to expand its global reach and accelerate the development of cutting-edge advertising solutions. In the company's unwavering commitment to forging the digital ad landscape, Carambola is breaking new ground in contextual advertising with the introduction of Contextual Social Units. The innovative AI-driven mechanisms curates' articles according to the page's main topic, by scanning a variety of social media networks, including Instagram, TikTok, X, Pinterest and more, and selecting the most relevant posts and user-generated content and seamlessly embedding into the article. By incorporating Contextual Social Ad Units, Carambola enriches existing articles with additional desirable content at an unprecedented level of accuracy and relevance. This enhanced user experience captivated audiences and fosters deeper connections between brands and consumers. Eitan Babay, the managing director of Carambola, explains, "The competition for user's attention is growing everyday. Creating an environment that is more relevant and engaging can significantly contribute to the user experience. While many non-relevant ads can be disruptive and cause the opposite effect, our contextual intelligence bridges this gap and delivers additional engaging content to the publisher and in turn provides a more attentive audience for our advertisers." Initial research shows how impressive impact of Carambola's AI-driven advancements are on two crucial key performance indicators (KPIs) in online advertising: Average Session Duration and Average Pages Viewed per Session. Both KPIs have surged by 34% and 29%, respectively, reflecting the tangible effects of employing these advertising elements. Thanks to these units, Carambola has created a unique platform for advertisers to showcase their ads on premium digital real-estate to ensure visibility and overcome "banner blindness" by the users. Carambola has always smoothly integrated advertisements into the audience's feed, ensuring a non-intrusive and relevant experience, effortlessly captivate the audience's attention with content that resonates to them and promotes interaction. They have consistently redefined the art of contextual advertising by continually adapting with evolving technology. With the release of the new AI-driven Contextual Social Ad Units Carambola has once again brought contextual advertising to the next level, finding yet another way to keep users engaged longer on publisher's pages, increase page per session, and add incremental revenue with ads, all while enhancing user satisfaction. Read more about Carambola at https://carambola.com/. SOURCE Carambola Home Instead shares tips for prioritizing one's well-being during World Alzheimer's Month OMAHA, Neb., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As the number of Americans living with Alzheimer's continues to rise now exceeding 6 million Americans the dedicated caregivers supporting these older adults find themselves confronted with challenges such as managing high stress levels, dealing with sleep deprivation and struggling to find time for self-care. Unfortunately for caregivers, these factors are known to contribute to the development of the disease, putting them at greater risk. Eighty percent of Alzheimer's care is provided in the home, not a facility, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) . As the leading provider of in-home care for older adults, Home Instead recognizes the vital role caregivers have in the lives of individuals affected by Alzheimer's. Beyond providing care to those with the disease, it's important to protect the well-being of Alzheimer's caregivers themselves. "Among the most common concerns our Care Professionals hear from family caregivers is that they don't want their own children to become family caregivers," said Lakelyn Hogan Eichenberger, Ph.D., gerontologist and caregiving advocate at Home Instead. "Alzheimer's is a difficult disease to live with for everyone involved. Carving time for self-care might feel selfish, but it's the most productive action you can take to keep your future self healthy." On Thursday, Sept. 21, at 12:00PM CDT, Home Instead is hosting a virtual brain health workshop for family caregivers to learn more about how maintaining a healthy brain can positively impact your memory and help reduce the risk of Alzheimer's. Registration is free, click here to RSVP . During World Alzheimer's Month, Home Instead is calling attention to the connection between healthy habits and brain health and encouraging caregivers to prioritize their needs. Growing evidence suggests that people can reduce their risk of cognitive decline by adopting key lifestyle changes. But major changes can feel overwhelming to those caring for loved ones. Here are suggestions for simple steps even the busiest caregivers can incorporate to prioritize themselves: Exercise to promote cardiovascular health . Those who exercise have a lower risk of developing cognitive decline. Even 30 minutes of movement can make a difference. Activities like walking, swimming and light jogging boost heart rate and preserve mental function. . Those who exercise have a lower risk of developing cognitive decline. Even 30 minutes of movement can make a difference. Activities like walking, swimming and light jogging boost heart rate and preserve mental function. Eat right to fuel the brain. Choose lean meats and olive oil-enriched foods to enhance brain health, mood and memory. Reducing red meat and saturated fats can alleviate brain fog, sluggishness and exhaustion. Choose lean meats and olive oil-enriched foods to enhance brain health, mood and memory. Reducing red meat and saturated fats can alleviate brain fog, sluggishness and exhaustion. Sleep and relax. Sleep detoxes the brain and promotes tissue healing. Experts recommend between seven and nine hours of sleep a night to promote optimal health. Trouble sleeping? Consider trying an eye mask or sleeping app. Sleep detoxes the brain and promotes tissue healing. Experts recommend between seven and nine hours of sleep a night to promote optimal health. Trouble sleeping? Consider trying an eye mask or sleeping app. Maintain social connections. Studies have shown those with the most social interaction within their community experience the slowest rate of memory decline. Regular social interaction, such as a phone call with a friend, can slow memory decline, particularly if you live alone. Studies have shown those with the most social interaction within their community experience the slowest rate of memory decline. Regular social interaction, such as a phone call with a friend, can slow memory decline, particularly if you live alone. Engage your brain. People who continue to learn, embrace new activities, and develop new skills are building and improving the networks in their brain. Stay curious and engage in brain games like crosswords, puzzles, bingo or phone apps to keep your mind active. People who continue to learn, embrace new activities, and develop new skills are building and improving the networks in their brain. Stay curious and engage in brain games like crosswords, puzzles, bingo or phone apps to keep your mind active. Take a positive approach to stress management. Chronic stress can harm the brain, affecting memory and mood regulation. Focus on the present, embrace natural events and think positively to reduce stress. Practice deep breathing and positive mantras multiple times a day to help you reset. To learn more about the Alzheimer's care and resources, visit HomeInstead.com ABOUT HOME INSTEAD, AN HONOR COMPANY Home Instead, Inc. and its parent company, Honor, are expanding the world's capacity to care. With the world's largest home care network and the most advanced care platform, Honor and Home Instead are revolutionizing care for older adults, their families, and Care Professionals. Home Instead, Inc. is the premier home care franchisor through its network of independently owned and operated Home Instead franchise businesses. Combined, the network has more than 100,000 Care Professionals across 12 countries, meeting the growing needs of millions of older adults and their families worldwide. For more information, visit joinhonor.com and homeinstead.com . SOURCE Home Instead Caster Concepts Inc., a global leader in industrial material handling solutions, adds two industry veterans to extend its solutions engineering team in the aerospace, heavy equipment and automotive markets. ALBION, Mich., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Citing increased customer demand for improvements in material handling safety, maneuverability and workload efficiency, Caster Concepts has added Brad Hays and Christopher Johnson to its solutions engineering team. BRAD HAYS "With continued labor pressure, manufacturers are focused on ensuring their associates are as safe and productive as possible," said Doug Backinger, vice president of sales at Caster Concepts. "Having Brad and Chris bring their considerable material handling knowledge to our customers will enable us to continue to provide the best solutions for each use case." Brad Hays has over 13 years of experience helping North American automotive and industrial manufacturers improve their material handling efficiency. A self-described "caster nerd," Hays focuses on ensuring cart and caster designs optimize user safety and ergonomics. Chris Johnson has multiple years' experience in helping warehouses, assembly facilities and manufacturers increase productivity and eliminate downtime. By focusing on heavy-duty materials handling applications, Chris is a recognized expert in balancing caster life, associate safety and factory productivity. Caster Concepts provides custom-engineered casters for a wide range of material handling applications. The solutions engineering team helps develop fit-to-purpose casters that increase efficiency, productivity and safety. About Caster Concepts Based in Albion, MI, Caster Concepts designs and builds industrial heavy-duty casters and wheels for virtually any application. Companies rely on Caster Concepts to increase productivity and reduce the risk of worker injury in heavy-duty material handling applications. Our high-capacity casters feature load ratings that range from below 3,000 pounds to over 100,000 pounds. Caster Concepts is ISO 9001-2015 certified and offers one of the industry's shortest lead times, making it the premier choice for many industries. The company was awarded the 2022 Corporate Impact Award by the state of Michigan. Visit CasterConcepts.com. Contact: Mike Crisp [email protected] SOURCE Caster Concepts WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- "Shape the future of banking and compliance in the crypto industry alongside executives, compliance officers, government regulators, and the leading companies in the space." The much-anticipated CBC Summit, an executive-level event featuring 100+ industry leaders and regulators focused on crypto banking and compliance, is happening this September 28th in Washington, D.C. The Summit will feature some of the leading companies in the space, including: Anchorage Digital BankProv BankWyse BitAML Circle CipherTrace Coinbase Electric Capital Elliptic FalconX Flipside Crypto Gemini Trust Company Kraken Ledger National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) Olliv by CoinFlip Paxos Perkins Coie Stripe Sullivan & Cromwell LLP TBD U.S. Department of the Treasury, OFAC U.S. Department of Justice Washington D.C. Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking Wyre ...and more Panel topics at CBC Summit 2023 include: CBC Summit will also include significant government regulator attendance with speakers from the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), U.S Department of Justice, and the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), U.S. Department of the Treasury. Highlighting the importance of industry and government participation, CBC Summit Keynote Speaker Avichal Garg of Electric Capital adds, "Banking and compliance challenges are consistently top of mind for the crypto industry, and I'm glad that CBC Summit is bringing together industry leaders and government regulators to collaborate on a path forward." Space is limited for this executive-level event. Register now for the inaugural CBC Summit on September 28th, 2023, at The National Press Club in Washington, D.C. ( REGISTER ). About: The CBC Team created and operates a portfolio of events dedicated to tackling banking & compliance challenges in emerging industries. More information at https://www.cbcsummit.io/ CONTACT: [email protected] SOURCE CBC Summit TORONTO, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - CELL Technologies Inc. is pleased to announce the award of a No Objection Letter (NOL) from Health Canada to launch the first ever pivotal stem cell program in pain and Osteoarthritis in the world. "I want to congratulate all Canadians. To have the first approved pivotal stem cell program in the world being launched in Canada, is a huge victory for all of us," says CEO Dr. Riam Shammaa. "Now patients across Canada have access to evidence-based and regulatory validated stem cells," says Dr. Shammaa. "I want to thank the team of CELL for their great work and dedication over the years to get to this huge success," says Shammaa. The program now allows patients with pain conditions to enroll in evidence-based and regulatory validated stem cell treatment across all Canada. "The No Objection Letter is a significant seal of approval from Health Canada," says Dr. Gregory Murphy, Chief Medical Officer of CELL. "It means that the regulators have reviewed and approved the efficacy of our scientific and clinical data. It also means that the regulators have reviewed and validated the safety of our processing and manufacturing, and they green light enrolling patients in the first evidence-based stem cell pivotal program in the world," says Dr. Murphy. Based on the breakthrough data and the positive regulatory approval, CELL is now preparing to file with the FDA to get a similar approval in the US. About CELL CELL is a clinical stage biotech company pioneering stem cell therapy in pain medicine and inflammatory conditions, CELL's platform is based on proprietary technology in both autologous and allogeneic programs with more than 10 years of research in the field of cell therapy. CELL is the leader in stem cell therapy in North America and aims to become the first provider of stem cells for regenerative medicine globally. For information and for patients looking to access the stem cell program: [email protected] SOURCE Cell Technologies Inc. BEIJING, Sept. 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Havana locals are hopeful the Group of 77 (G77) plus China Summit will be a driving force in closer cooperation between developing countries. "Developing countries need to develop, combat poverty and deal with other issues that affect them," architect Eddy Regueiro told CGTN in the lead-up to the event, which was held on Friday and Saturday in the Cuban capital. "l hope the summit will focus on the ways to achieve sustainable development using science and technology to look for more innovative ways for developing countries to develop," said Sociology student Samantha Ross. Their expectations echoed the Havana declaration approved on Saturday, which stressed the role of science and technology and called for an open, fair, inclusive and non-discriminatory environment for scientific and technological development. Composed of 134 developing countries, the G77 wrapped up the summit in Havana on September 16, declaring the date as the Science, Technology, and Innovation Day in the Global South. Bridging digital divide During the summit, Li Xi, the special representative of Chinese President Xi Jinping, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, called for all countries to equally benefit from digital dividends, and said that no developing country should be left behind or left out in the development of new technologies and industries. Addressing the 17th Group of 20 Summit in Indonesia's Bali in November 2022, President Xi Jinping said it is important to bridge the digital divide, saying countries should jointly promote connectivity in the digital age, and take effective measures to promote digital literacy and skills for all. It is particularly important to help developing countries and disadvantaged groups to adapt to digital transformation and strive to close the digital divide, said the Chinese president. To bridge digital divide, China established the Digital Silk Road cooperation mechanism with 17 countries and advanced Silk Road E-commerce bilateral cooperation mechanism with 29 countries, Chen Chunjiang, assistant minister of commerce, said in March. Speaking at the summit, African Union chair and Comorian President Azali Assoumani lauded China's efforts in promoting global economic development with digital cooperation, saying that digital cooperation is an important part of the Belt and Road Initiative. Promoting South-South cooperation Li Xi also stressed that South-South cooperation is always a high priority in China's cooperation with other countries. "China is the largest developing country in the world. No matter what stage of development it reaches, China will always be part of the developing world and a member of the Global South," he said. At the BRICS-Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue in Johannesburg in August, President Xi Jinping announced that China had set up a Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund with a total funding of $4 billion, and Chinese financial institutions would soon set up a special fund of $10 billion dedicated to the implementation of the Global Development Initiative (GDI). Djibouti Prime Minister Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed said South-South cooperation is an important way to promote solidarity, also hailing the GDI as it has achieved many successful cooperation cases in the Global South during the summit. "When brothers are of the same mind, they can cut through metal with combined strength," Li Xi quoted a Chinese saying, urging G77 members and China to promote cooperation in areas of food security, poverty alleviation, industrialization, green development, digital technology and artificial intelligence. Global governance reform United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday urged G77 members and China to champion a multilateral system rooted in equality, delivering for all humanity and not only for the privileged. Science, technology and innovation can promote solidarity and solve common problems, however, today "they frequently inflame inequalities and entrench divisions," Guterres noted. Chinese Foreign Ministry on Wednesday issued a proposal on reform and development of global governance, outlining China's stance and proposition on key areas of global governance. Regarding scientific development, China stressed that scientific and technological advances should benefit all humanity, not becoming means of restricting and containing other countries' development. The proposal highlighted that developing countries should fully enjoy the right to peaceful uses of science and technology to facilitate the realization of sustainable development goals, and effectively respond to security risks posed by scientific and technological development. China will enhance international exchange and cooperation in science and technology with a more open mind and actions, work with other countries to foster an open, fair, equitable and non-discriminatory environment for the development of science and technology, and promote mutual and shared benefits, it added. https://news.cgtn.com/news/2023-09-18/China-to-build-a-Global-South-community-with-a-shared-future--1nb5bQsqY9O/index.html SOURCE CGTN The A Nurse I Am Scholarship Award, sponsored by Cherokee Uniforms, provides financial support and valuable resources to exceptional nursing students. SANTA MONICA, Calif., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Cherokee Uniforms, a Careismatic Brand, Inc. brand, announced today that it awarded scholarships to support 10 outstanding nursing students enrolled in its A Nurse I Am Scholarship program. Recipients of the A Nurse I Am Scholarship are actively enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate program and receive $3,000 to apply toward their nursing education. Recipients were also gifted scrubs, shoes, accessories, and medical instruments by Careismatic Brands. "The A Nurse I Am Scholarship will provide these exceptional nursing students with the resources they need to thrive in their educational pursuits," said Girisha Chandraraj, CEO of Careismatic Brands. "Careismatic Brands is committed to shaping the future of nursing, one scholarship at a time." Scholarship recipients were granted membership to the Careismatic Brands Student Nurse Advisory Council until their graduation, which will provide opportunities for engagement with industry professionals and provide valuable insights into the nursing profession. Undergraduate winners pursuing pre-licensed programs additionally received a one-year membership to the American Organization for Nursing Leadership Student Membership. The exclusive membership provides access to an abundance of resources and educational materials. Careismatic Brands established the A Nurse I Am Scholarship 16 years ago to support, nurture, and develop nursing students. The program has awarded more than $200,000 in scholarship funds and has helped launch the careers of more than 100 healthcare professionals. For more information on the A Nurse I Am Scholarship program, visit www.anurseiam.com. ABOUT CAREISMATIC BRANDS: Careismatic Brands, Inc. is a trusted global leader in medical apparel, footwear, and accessories, with a distribution platform that spans 70 countries. Its extensive portfolio of trusted brands includes Cherokee Uniforms, Dickies Medical, Heartsoul Scrubs, Infinity, Scrubstar, Tooniforms, Anywear, Healing Hands, Med Couture, Medelita, Classroom Uniforms, Allheart, Silverts Adaptive Apparel and BALA Footwear. Careismatic is proud to support several nonprofit organizations, including The DAISY Foundation, U-VOL Foundation and Mercy Ships. For more information on Careismatic Brands, visit www.careismatic.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. SOURCE Careismatic Brands WALNUT CREEK, Calif., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Board-certified Dermatologist Dr. Ogechi Ikediobi (aka Dr. Chi), announces the opening of CHI Dermatology, a comprehensive, holistic, and integrative dermatology practice, in Walnut Creek, California. Dr. Chi synthesizes her knowledge of medical dermatology, Ayurveda and genetics to tailor individual treatment plans for patients with common and complex medical dermatology ailments. Dr. Chi also utilizes Fotona laser technology to safely address cosmetic concerns such as acne scars, skin rejuvenation, hair removal and hair restoration in patients of all skin types and skin tones. "Our skin health is determined by internal and external influences, and taking care of your skin involves multiple factors to achieve optimal skin health and appearance." states Dr. Chi. "Each person's skin is unique and taking an integrative approach allows us to personalize and promote healthy, radiant skin from the inside, out." As a board-certified Dermatologist, Dr. Chi views skin diseases as a mirror to the state of one's internal health. Given her deep knowledge of medicine, pharmacology, genetics, yoga/Ayurveda, she is uniquely positioned to address skin diseases in a holistic manner. When it comes to the health of your skin, consider the following: Proper nutrition for your unique body constitution, hydration, regular outdoor exercise and sufficient sleep play a critical role in skin health. Protect skin from harmful UV radiation by using mineral sun protection, as well as wearing protective clothing and seeking shade. Chronic stress can negatively impact your skin's health and engaging in mind-body techniques such as mediation, massage and bodywork can help restore balance. Dr. Chi frequently addresses changing needs as we age. "There are patients who do all the right things exercise, eat well, and use sunscreen. However, as they approach their 40's and 50's, their body goes through changes and their skin no longer responds in the same way" says Dr. Chi. "I apply my experience as a board-certified Dermatologist, my expertise in genetics and pharmacology as well as my work as a certified Ayurvedic wellness counselor to maintain skin health and vibrancy. It is an investment in maintaining one's overall health." About CHI Dermatology: Board-certified Dermatologist, Dr. Ogechi Ikediobi practices comprehensive, pediatric/adolescent, adult and geriatric dermatology care in Walnut Creek, California. Dr. Ogechi Ikediobi earned her undergraduate degree in Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharm.D.) from Florida A&M University. She subsequently earned her Ph.D. and completed her post-doctoral work in Molecular Biology and Pharmacogenomics at the University of Cambridge, Cambridge UK, and the National Cancer Institute, in Bethesda MD. Dr. Ogechi Ikediobi earned her MD at the University of California, San Francisco and completed her Dermatology residency at the University of California, San Diego. She also earned a certificate as an Ayurvedic wellness counselor at Kerala Ayurveda Academy in Milpitas, CA. www.chidermatology.com Media Contact: Aimee Desrosiers [email protected] SOURCE CHI Dermatology HAIKOU, China, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A report from Hainan International Media Center (HIMC): From September 13 to 15, a delegation from southern China's Hainan Province visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to enhance bilateral trade relations and boost industrial, cultural, and technological cooperation under China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The delegation from south China's Hainan Province signed agreements with the UAE during the Hainan Free Trade Port Promotion Conference held on September 15. (Photo: Hainan Daily App) The tropical island province signed a memorandum of understanding with DP World, a leading local port operator in Dubai, and other agreements with the UAE companies in tourism, aviation, logistics, technology, and other services. During the delegation's visit, the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) Promotion Conference was held, attended by representatives from the UAE's Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure, Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, and the World Free Zones Organization, as well as from the Chinese Embassy in the UAE, Consulate-General of China in Dubai, and other Chinese companies and associations in the UAE. Investors from the Jebel Ali Free Zone, Abu Dhabi Ports and Airport, Dubai International Airport Duty-free Store, DP World, Group 42 (a UAE artificial intelligence and cloud computing company), Dubai UAS International Trip Support, and other UAE companies were welcomed to invest in the Hainan FTP. Since the UAE joined the China-proposed BRI, the two countries have witnessed their partnerships extend into many fields. Bilateral trade between Hainan Province and the UAE has seen growth spurts over the past few years, with the two sides being a good match in terms of natural resources and industrial structures. Breaking the numbers down further by years, the trade volume between the two places in 2021 had increased 10 times since 2020, further doubling in 2022. The first half of 2023 saw trade volume surpass that of the whole of 2021. During this year's Boao Forum for Asia annual conference, the Hainan FTP joined Dubai's Jebel Ali Free Zone, along with other free trade zones (ports) in China and around the world, in an initiative calling for partnerships between free trade zones (ports) worldwide. SOURCE Hainan International Media Center (HIMC) NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The clinical trial supplies market size is expected to grow by USD 1.19 billion from 2022 to 2027. In addition, the momentum of the market will progress at a CAGR of over 8.48% during the forecast period, according to Technavio Research. The market has been segmented by end-user (pharmaceutical industry, biologics industry, and medical device industry), type (Phase III, Phase II, Phase IV and BE/BA studies, and Phase I), and geography (North America, Europe, Asia, and Rest of World (ROW)). North America is estimated to account for 36% of the growth of the global market during the forecast period. There is an increasing prevalence of chronic diseases which is fuelling the number of clinical trials leading to the rising number of life science research activities. One of the main end-users of clinical trial supplies is pharmaceutical companies due to the large number of clinical trials conducted to validate their new drug discoveries and get them out in the market. Hence, such factors are expected to drive the market growth in the region during the forecast period. Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Clinical Trial Supplies Market 2023-2027 This report offers an up-to-date analysis of the current market scenario, the latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. Read Free PDF Sample Report Company Profile: Avantor Inc., Bionical Emas Group, Bushu Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Catalent Inc., Clinical Services International Ltd., Clinigen Group Plc, Deutsche Bahn AG, Emsere B.V, GNH India Pharmaceuticals Ltd., International Bonded Couriers Inc., Nuvisan GmbH, Obvio Health USA Inc., Parexel International Corp., PHOENIX Pharmahandel GmbH and Co KG, Piramal Enterprises Ltd.Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., Vertical Pharma Resources Ltd., Ancillare LP, PCI Pharma Services, Precision Medicine Group LLC Avantor Inc: The company offers clinical trial supplies such as A TKO is a completely managed clinical trial ancillary supply chain. To gain access to more vendor profiles available with Technavio, buy the report! Clinical Trial Supplies Market: Segmentation Analysis The market share growth by the pharmaceutical industry segment is significant during the forecast period. Drug discovery and launching a new drug to market are complex processes and need clinical trials to test the safety, effectiveness, and performance of new drugs. Additionally, there is an increase in stringent regulations developed by the FDA to ensure the safety and effectiveness of new and personalized drugs, which is fuelling the need for clinical trials for pharmaceuticals. Hence, such factors are expected to fuel the growth of this segment, which in turn will drive the market growth during the forecast period. Learn about the contribution of each segment summarized in concise infographics and thorough descriptions. View Free PDF Sample Report "Besides analyzing the current market scenario, our report examines historic data from 2017 to 2021"- Technavio Clinical Trial Supplies Market: Driver & Trend: Driver The growth of the biopharmaceutical industry is one of the key factors driving the growth of the market. There has been a significant change in the dynamics of the biopharmaceutical industry as the pharmaceutical industry looks to the biopharmaceutical industry to discover new drugs and biosimilars launched to the market by new global participants. The emergence of biopharmaceuticals has significantly reduced the number of deaths from cancer and HIV/AIDS in the last few years, which has resulted in an increase in the use of biopharmaceuticals in the global market. Additionally, the rapid expansion of the global biopharmaceutical market has resulted in the development of several other industries, including contract research, contract manufacturing, consumables, and pharmaceuticals. as well as clinical trials. The research and production of drugs and biologics mainly comprises clinical trials to ensure a product's safety, effectiveness, and minimal side effects. Therefore, the growing biopharmaceutical industry leads to the growth of the clinical trials market during the forecast period. Trend A rise in studies focusing on the pharmaceutical industry is one of the emerging trends in the market. The rising clinical research into different types of cancer has contributed to a greater focus on personalized medicine as pharmaceutical companies seek to invest in the latest market trends. There is an increase in government funding, which is also significantly contributing to the growth of personalized medicine. Precision medicine needs various ways to test interventions. Researchers are required to probe a multitude of factors including genetics and environmental factors that determine a person's response to treatment. Additionally, due to the significant growth of drug-targeted studies, there has been an increase in demand for further clinical trials over the last few years. It is essential for newly approved drugs and applied drugs to be safe, targeted, and have long-term effectiveness, as guaranteed by clinical trial services. Therefore, the increasing number of clinical trial services to ensure the safety of new drugs has fueled the growth and development of clinical trial supplies, which in turn will drive growth. Identify key trends, drivers, and challenges in the market. Download sample to gain access to this information. Related Reports: The global analytical standards market size is estimated to grow by USD 624.93 million at a CAGR of 6.81% between 2022 and 2027. he report has segmented the market into Type(chromatography, spectroscopy, titrimetry, and physical properties testing), Application(food and beverages, pharmaceuticals and life sciences, environmental, and others), and Geography(North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa). The protein expression market size is estimated to grow by USD 2,450.45 million at a CAGR of 13.7% between 2022 and 2027. The report has segmented the market into Solution (products and services), End-user (pharmaceutical and biotechnological companies, academic research, and contract research organizations), and Geography(North America, Europe, Asia, and the Rest of the World (ROW). What are the key data covered in this clinical trial supplies market report? CAGR of the market during the forecast period Detailed information on factors that will drive the growth of the clinical trial supplies market between 2022 and 2027. Precise estimation of the clinical trial supplies market size and its contribution to the market in focus on the parent market. Accurate predictions about upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior Growth of the clinical trial supplies market across North America, Europe, Asia, and ROW A thorough analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information about vendors Comprehensive analysis of factors that will challenge the growth of clinical trial supplies market vendors. ToC: Executive Summary Market Landscape Market Sizing Historic Market Sizes Five Forces Analysis Market Segmentation by End-user Market Segmentation by Type Market Segmentation by Geography Customer Landscape Geographic Landscape Drivers, Challenges, & Trends Company Landscape Company Analysis Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts 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 HOUSTON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Commonwealth LNG announced today that it has entered into a Heads of Agreement (HOA) with EQT, the largest producer of natural gas in the U.S., for 1 million tons per annum of LNG under a 15-year tolling agreement, and associated gas supply to Commonwealth LNG's facility in Cameron, Louisiana. Commonwealth LNG Founder and Executive Chairman Paul Varello said, "We are very pleased to add a US producer of EQT's stature to Commonwealth's customer portfolio." He added, "This agreement will connect EQT's vast natural gas assets to Commonwealth's LNG facility, thus creating a robust value chain from wellhead to water. Accessing EQT's natural gas production, which achieved a 20 percent year-over-year reduction in Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions, supports Commonwealth's goal of achieving best in class environmental standards." Commonwealth anticipates a final investment decision on the project in the first quarter of 2024, with first cargo deliveries expected in 2027. An accelerated construction schedule will allow the project to be built in three years using a modular approach with major components being fabricated offsite. The terms anticipated under the HOA would commence at the start of commercial operation of the facility. Final terms remain subject to negotiation of a definitive agreement between the parties. About Commonwealth LNG Commonwealth LNG is developing a 9.3 mtpa liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminal project located on the Calcasieu River at the Gulf of Mexico near Cameron, Louisiana. The project's leadership team is committed to building a world-class LNG facility while relentlessly focusing on safety, managing risk and achieving best in class environmental standards. Website: www.CommonwealthLNG.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/commonwealth-lng/ Media Inquiries : Lyle Hanna Vice President, Corporate Communications Office: 346-352-4436 Direct: 281-794-9606 Email: lhanna@teamcpl.com SOURCE Commonwealth LNG GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Practicing good citizenship through Moral Focus virtues is the bedrock of teaching and learning at National Heritage Academies' partner-schools. And one day each year, scholars tie these character-based elements together with Constitution Day, commemorated annually on Sept. 17. The significance of Sept. 17 gives scholars from all grade levels a lens into learning about the Constitution, which was signed on Sept. 17, 1787. Younger scholars learn about rules, laws, and why those guidelines exist in society. Students in later grades learn more specific lessons, digging into the Bill of Rights, other amendments, and why they exist. Some classrooms will be transported to the 18th Century with reenactments of the signing of the Constitution. For other scholars, Constitution Day charges them with complex thought exercises, such as comparing a society with rules to a community without laws and deciding which they'd rather live in. Social Studies Team Lead for NHA's Curriculum and Instruction department Amy Harper said students also learn about the morals behind the Constitution and the people who came together to sign it. NHA's Moral Focus virtues are sprinkled throughout Constitution Day lessons. "That virtue of wisdom is ingrained in the Constitution," Harper said. "The founding fathers used the wisdom they gained from the Revolutionary War and their experiences from being ruled by England to set up a government whose power is balanced between different branches of government." Other Moral Focus virtues scholars learn about include respect, courage, and self-control. All of these traits are emphasis points for Dominique Rickett-Meriweather, Dean of Intervention and Special Education at Taylor Exemplar Academy, who said these traits are crucial to good citizenship. "All of these Moral Focus virtues are things that we can tie in when we teach about history," Rickett-Meriweather said. Application of these lessons starts the journey to becoming outstanding members of the community. One of the most popular activities is creating a constitution for their own classroom. Scholars sign their name to a "social contract," serving as their commitment to uphold the values they desire most. This exercise is a small-scale demonstration that mirrors what the founding fathers did 236 years ago. According to Rickett-Meriweather, third-grade scholars at Taylor wrote a social contract, which will hang in class for the remainder of the year. Lessons like this have helped Taylor outperform the local district for 13 years. "When the kids sign their name to it, they have a sense of agency over the contract," Harper said. "It's something that the teacher can remind students of too. The students have already agreed to this, they had a hand in crafting it. "There's a lot that relates to Constitution Day and how our forefathers were agreeing about what they wanted the country to look like." National Heritage Academies (NHA) is a network of 101 tuition-free, public charter schools across nine states, serving more than 68,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade. For more information, visit nhaschools.com. SOURCE National Heritage Academies TOKYO, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- DRY STUDIO, a new consumer technology brand founded in Tokyo and backed by Angry Miao, has officially been launched today. Having explored the market for more three years, Angry Miao came to the realization that using a single in-house brand brings limitations when it comes to expressing radical and diverse subcultures that young people are concerned about. However, many talented creators in the global community do not affiliate themselves with a brand, and thus do not need to take brand consistency into consideration. This freedom allows creators to imagine designs that take avant-garde, eye-catchyness and individuality to the next level. Supported by Angry Miao's solid product technology, R&D, supply chain and other resources, DRY STUDIO aims to differentiate itself with a unique user experience and design, rather than competing with spec sheets. By understanding the needs of Gen Z, DRY STUDIO seeks to create products with balanced specifications while placing user experience and design at the forefront. Basing their products on these fundamentals, DRY STUDIO believes their products will be anticipated by young people while also maintaining a fair price. DRY STUDIO hopes it can become a platform for connecting global creators with diverse and innovative designs to create desktop equipment, including keyboards, headphones, chargers, charging cables, phone cases, and more. Rather than limiting itself to a single design language, DRY STUDIO plans to cooperate with more designers to take advantage of their individual visions, and turning unique conceptual design schemes into reality. At the same time, DRY STUDIO is ready to break the status quo, adding a unique flavor to otherwise "dry" single-brand designs. DRY STUDIO welcomes designers from all over the world to collaborate and make truly excellent works reality. DRY STUDIO will release its first product through crowdfunding platform Indiegogo on September 26, 2023 at 8:00 AM PDT. SOURCE DRY STUDIO Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly alongside the Director-General of the World Health Organization and President of Malawi , Dr. Sultan Al Jaber vowed that COP28 will put health at the center of climate discussions and mobilize investment for equitable, climate-resilient health systems. , Dr. Sultan Al Jaber vowed that will put health at the center of climate discussions and mobilize investment for equitable, climate-resilient health systems. In keeping with this commitment, the COP28 Presidency will join with the WHO and several countries to host the first-ever Health Day and climate-health ministerial at a COP. Presidency will join with the WHO and several countries to host the first-ever Health Day and climate-health ministerial at a COP. Dr. Al Jaber appealed to the international community to support this significant event and come to COP28 ready to address the connection between climate change and health. ready to address the connection between climate change and health. He also commended the COP28 Champion Country Group on climate health and their role in shaping the ministerial and drafting the political declaration for COP28 , as well as the leadership of organizations such as the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, the Green Climate Fund, the Rockefeller Foundation, and others for their commitment to closing the climate-health financing gap at COP28 . NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The COP28 President-Designate Dr. Sultan Al Jaber has vowed that COP28 will drive international action on climate and health, with the first-ever Health Day and climate-health ministerial at a COP acting as a ground-breaking opportunity to determine steps towards equitable, climate-resilient health systems and mobilize vital investment in the sector. Speaking against the backdrop of the United Nations General Assembly and New York Climate Week, alongside Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) and Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, President of Malawi, Dr. Al Jaber called on the international community to support the day and ministerial, which will be co-hosted with the WHO and several countries. Dr. Al Jaber stressed the importance of addressing the crucial connection between climate change and health. He said: "The connection between health and climate change is evident, yet it has not been a specific focus of the COP process until now. This must change." He continued, "As we prepare for the groundbreaking Health Day at COP28, we are resolute in our determination to address the challenges posed to health by climate change and encourage ambitious investment in the health sector. Our goal is to build resilient, equitable health systems capable of withstanding the impact of climate change." He went on to thank the country champions, Brazil, the UK, the USA, the Netherlands, Kenya, Fiji, India, Egypt, Sierra Leone, and Germany for their work to lead the climate health discussions at COP28. During his remarks, Dr. Al Jaber highlighted the risks climate change poses to human health, including shifting disease patterns, expanding vectors, and the resurgence of previously contained diseases. He noted that WHO statistics reveal that air pollution alone leads to seven million excess deaths annually and that vector-borne diseases, such as Malaria, are expanding their reach due to rising temperatures and changing weather patterns, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. Alongside this growing threat, the COP28 Health Day scheduled for the 3rd December -will also take into account the fragility of public health systems worldwide, as exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the urgent need for transformative changes to adapt these systems in response to climate change. "COP28 is determined to shine a light on these issues and to bring together partners who can make a positive difference. We are determined to reverse these trends by bringing the world together around an inclusive action agenda centered around a just transition, fairer climate finance and improved lives and livelihoods." Dr. Al Jaber said. Finance will also be a priority during COP28's Health Day. The financial toll of health crises attributed to climate change is estimated to reach between $2-4 billion annually by 2030, exacerbating poverty, particularly in disadvantaged regions. The World Bank projects that nearly 40 percent of climate-related poverty will result from the direct health impacts of climate change, impacting productivity, income, and health expenses. In his remarks, Dr. Al Jaber called for increased concessional funds to the Global South to lower risks and attract private capital. He emphasized the need to rebalance finance and called on governments to double adaptation finance by 2025, urging them to contribute generously to replenish the Green Climate Fund. Dr. Al Jaber also underscored the significance of investing in health as a crucial aspect of climate resilience, emphasizing that these expenses should be viewed as investments rather than costs. According to the World Bank, every dollar invested in building climate resilience yields an average benefit of four dollars. As such, he called on financial institutions, including development banks, to prioritize climate-health investments. Dr. Al Jaber commended the leadership of organizations such as the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, the Green Climate Fund, the Rockefeller Foundation for their commitment to closing the climate-health financing gap at COP28. During the session, Dr. Al Jaber highlighted the UAE's legacy and leadership to safeguard human health. He underscored the commitment of Founding Father His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to prioritize the lives and livelihoods of people. He highlighted initiatives such as 'Reaching the Last Mile', which, through His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed, has committed over $455 million to improve global health outcomes, with an emphasis on supporting resilient health systems that best serve vulnerable communities. The UN event, 'Looking Forward Towards COP's First-Ever Day of Health: Advancing A Bold Vision for Action, Equity, and Accountability', featured prominent figures including His Excellency Adnan Amin, CEO of COP28; and Dr. Maria Neira, Director of the Department of Environment, Climate Change, and Health at the WHO. The session was moderated by Vanessa Kerry, WHO's Special Envoy on Climate Change and Health. The COP28 Presidency's Action Agenda outlines a science-based, action-oriented plan focused on charting a new course to address the climate crisis. It combines passion with pragmatism and ambition with realism. Health sits within the part of the Agenda that focuses on people, lives, and livelihoods. This also includes the creation of a Food Declaration aimed at mobilizing political commitment to drive positive changes in systems, enhance food security, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, COP28 will feature the first-ever climate-Health Ministerial Declaration and a significant mobilization of nature-climate finance on a large scale. The other three focus areas include fast-tracking the energy transition, fixing climate finance, and ensuring a fully inclusive COP28. Notes to Editors COP28 UAE: COP28 UAE will take place at Expo City Dubai from November 30-December 12, 2023 . The Conference is expected to convene over 70,000 participants, including heads of state, government officials, international industry leaders, private sector representatives, academics, experts, youth, and non-state actors. . The Conference is expected to convene over 70,000 participants, including heads of state, government officials, international industry leaders, private sector representatives, academics, experts, youth, and non-state actors. As mandated by the Paris Climate Agreement, COP28 UAE will deliver the first ever Global Stocktake a comprehensive evaluation of progress against climate goals. The UAE will lead a process for all parties to agree upon a clear roadmap to accelerate progress through a pragmatic global energy transition and a "leave no one behind" approach to inclusive climate action." SOURCE COP28 Now in its 20th year, Rail Safety Week encourages safe behaviour around railways CALGARY, AB, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) and CPKC Police Service today marked the beginning of Rail Safety Week in Canada, the United States and Mexico, a week-long campaign bringing awareness to the importance of staying safe around railway crossings and tracks. Every year, approximately 2,100 North Americans are seriously hurt or killed because of unsafe behaviour around railway tracks and trains, according to Operation Lifesaver, Inc. CPKC will join Operation Lifesaver, Inc. in the U.S., Operation Lifesaver Canada and the Mexican Association of Railroads (AMF) as we work to bring train-related injuries and fatalities to zero. During Rail Safety Week, now in its 20th year, CPKC Police Service officers in Canada and the United States will be in communities across CPKC's network patrolling railway property and conducting rail safety presentations to educate the public on the dangers of unsafe behaviour around trains and tracks. CPKC de Mexico, through our Alto Total campaign, will help spread the message of #VesViasPiensaEnTren (#SeeTracksThinkTrain) in conjunction with AMF by educating motorists, cyclists and pedestrians at railway crossings and sharing a message of safety through presentations to students. "Throughout the year, we work with the rail industry, governments, local law enforcement and communities to raise awareness for public rail safety," said Al Sauve, CPKC Chief of Police Canada. "Rail Safety Week is an important reminder to everyone that rail safety must be an ongoing priority each and every minute of every day." "Unsafe behaviour at rail crossings or around train tracks can have tragic consequences for families, friends and communities," said Kelly Clough, CPKC Chief of Police U.S. "Working together, we can help prevent tragedies and build safer communities." CPKC will also support Operation Lifesaver initiatives throughout the week, including the unveiling of rail safety decals that say "Look. Listen. Live." at 15 railway crossings across CPKC's network in Canada. "Operation Lifesaver Canada is delighted to be marking the 20th anniversary of Rail Safety Week this year. Since 2003, our annual campaign has served to remind Canadians that taking risks near tracks and trains could cost them a limb, or their life," said Sarah Mayes, National Director of Operation Lifesaver Canada. "This year more than ever, we hope Canadians will talk about rail safety with their loved ones and will model rail-safe behaviours, so that we can #STOPTrackTragedies." "Rail Safety Week focuses awareness and education activities around the country into seven exciting days. Daily themes feature rail safety tips emphasizing crossing safety for drivers, trespass prevention for pedestrians, safe practices for transit riders, no photos on tracks and more," said Rachel Maleh, Executive Director of Operation Lifesaver, Inc. "During this annual observance, safety partners like CPKC join us for a concentrated week of sharing the important rail safety message. We are thankful for CPKC's commitment to Operation Lifesaver, Inc. during Rail Safety Week and throughout the year, as well as their commitment to rail safety each and every day. Everyone can help make their communities safer. Know the facts, recognize the signs, make good decisions and join us. Together, we can #STOPTrackTragedies." Follow CPKC's Rail Safety Week messages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn. Like or share our videos to help promote rail safety. Visit Operation Lifesaver (Canada), Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (U.S.) and AMF to learn more about Rail Safety Week and how to become a rail safety ambassador. About CPKC With its global headquarters in Calgary, Alta., Canada, CPKC is the first and only single-line transnational railway linking Canada, the United States and Mexico, with unrivaled access to major ports from Vancouver to Atlantic Canada to the Gulf of Mexico to Lazaro Cardenas, Mexico. Stretching approximately 20,000 route miles and employing 20,000 railroaders, CPKC provides North American customers unparalleled rail service and network reach to key markets across the continent. CPKC is growing with its customers, offering a suite of freight transportation services, logistics solutions and supply chain expertise. Visit cpkcr.com to learn more about the rail advantages of CPKC. About CPKC Police Service The CPKC Police Service is a fully accredited police agency operating in both Canada and the United States created by Federal Statute with full federal, state and provincial powers. CPKC Police Service officers are peace officers as defined by the Criminal Code. The CPKC Police Service plays an important role by contributing to public safety and enforcement activities in the communities where CPKC operates. CPKC Police Service officers promote public safety through trespasser abatement patrols, enforcement of traffic legislation at and near railway crossings and participation in education activities to raise awareness of community safety issues. The CPKC Police Services also help to protect the critical infrastructure of Canada and the U.S. by ensuring supply chain integrity and ensuring the operational efficiency of the transportation network. About Operation Lifesaver Canada Operation Lifesaver Canada is a national public rail-safety program sponsored by Transport Canada, the Railway Association of Canada and its members, including CN, CPKC, VIA Rail, Metrolinx, Exo, West Coast Express and Genesee & Wyoming, among others. Through its national network of Rail Safety Ambassadors, partnerships with safety councils, police, the trucking industry and community groups, and innovative tools such as its virtual-reality Look. Listen. Live. campaign, Operation Lifesaver Canada works to save lives by educating Canadians about the hazards of trespassing on railway property and failing to exercise caution at rail crossings. Canadians can keep up-to-date on the latest rail safety news by visiting operationlifesaver.ca. About Operation Lifesaver Operation Lifesaver is a nonprofit public safety education and awareness organization dedicated to stopping track tragedies. For more than 50 years, Operation Lifesaver programs have saved lives via public awareness campaigns and a network of trained volunteers across the U.S. who give free presentations encouraging safe behavior near railroad tracks and trains. The Operation Lifesaver, Inc. national office supports the efforts of state programs in 47 states and the District of Columbia. Explore Operation Lifesaver, Inc.'s virtual library of rail safety materials on the oli.org website. Learn more about Operation Lifesaver, Inc., the annual observance of Rail Safety Week, how to request a free presentation and become a volunteer. Follow Operation Lifesaver, Inc. on social media via Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Twitter and YouTube. About Mexican Association of Railroads The AMF's main purpose is to promote rail freight transportation, increasing its contribution to the competitiveness of the Mexican economy. For this purpose and with the representation of its members, the AMF collaborates with the authorities of the executive and legislative branches to promote that the regulation of the railway service promotes it effectively and that it contributes to the competitiveness of the Mexican economy, in terms of safety and healthy coexistence with the communities through which we travel. Additionally, the Association collaborates with other modes of transportation with the purpose of achieving an effective intermodal scheme. Also, we coordinate with other Chambers and User Associations, advancing an agenda that identifies areas of opportunity and joint solutions. SOURCE CPKC UAEs Deja Vu Real Estate has appointed Mohab Samak as its new CEO and Managing Partner. Samak, a seasoned industry veteran with nearly two decades of experience in real estate, including distinguished roles at industry titans like Emaar, Hamptons International, and Engel & Volkers Dubai, is celebrated for his profound knowledge and expertise. The decision to welcome Samak to this pivotal role underlines Deja Vu's steadfast position as the leading authority in buying, selling, renting, and managing properties in the UAE. Raising the bar This appointment marks a significant milestone in the company's evolution, signalling its dedication to raising the bar in the industry. With a well-thought-out strategy in place, Deja Vu Real Estate is primed to ascend to the summit of the UAE real estate market. Samak said: We are thrilled to extend an invitation to all our clients, partners, and stakeholders to join us on this exhilarating journey of growth. Together, we are set to redefine real estate consultancy standards and service levels, reaffirming our belief in the limitless potential of Dubai's real estate market and beyond." The UAE's real estate sector is currently experiencing unprecedented growth, and Deja Vu is strategically poised to seize these opportunities. Samak's appointment as CEO and Managing Partner aligns perfectly with the burgeoning real estate landscape in the UAE, which promises robust growth in the coming years.-- TradeArabia News Service NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The crypto wallet market by product (software-based and hardware-based) and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa) - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026" report has been added to the Technavio offering. With ISO 9001:2015 certification, Technavio has proudly partnered with more than 100 Fortune 500 companies for over 16 years. The potential growth difference for the crypto wallet market from 2021 to 2026 is USD 686.05 million, according to Technavio. People's inclination towards digital currency is a key factor driving market growth. Digital currencies offer a world of possibilities with faster and more affordable bank transfers, a boom in retail e-commerce, an increase in currency transactions in low-income countries, and an increase in international remittances. Furthermore, payment in digital currency will reduce payment risks in the financial system. The need for a reliable, long-term store of value is a popular reason to invest in cryptocurrencies. Most cryptocurrencies, unlike fiat currencies, have a limited supply constrained by mathematical algorithms. Hence, this inclination toward digital currencies is expected to drive market growth during the forecast period. Get deeper insights into the market size, current market scenario, future growth opportunities, major growth driving factors, the latest trends, and much more. Buy the full report here Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Crypto Wallet Market 2022-2026 Market Challenge The misuse and security attacks that confine the adoption of cryptocurrencies is significant challenge restricting market growth. Many regulators are concerned about criminals increasingly abusing digital currency for illegal activities, as it is an unregulated, decentralized, and uncontrolled exchange platform. Furthermore, criminals use digital currencies to carry out a variety of illegal activities, including tax evasion, money laundering, and terrorist financing. Businesses and governments are concerned that criminals can hide their financial activities from authorities due to the decentralized and anonymous nature of digital money transfers. In addition, the government has the right to restrict cryptocurrency exchanges according to legislation regarding the monitoring of illegal activities. Hence, this inclination toward digital currencies is expected to restrict market growth during the forecast period. Learn about additional key drivers, trends, and challenges available with Technavio. Read Free Sample PDF Report Now The crypto wallet market is segmented by product (software-based and hardware-based) and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa). The crypto wallet market share growth by the software-based segment will be significant during the forecast period. The software-based segment growth can be attributed to how simple it is to use, as software-based wallets operate online. Software wallets are essentially desktop apps or browser add-ons that make it easy to send, receive, and store cryptocurrencies . Since funds are held online, software wallets are also known as hot wallets. The growth of the software segment can be attributed to its ease of use as software wallets operate online. Furthermore, it acts like a browser plugin, allowing users to easily interact with things like decentralized applications and decentralized finance ( DeFi ) protocols. In addition, software wallets relate to public and private keys, which facilitate transactions and serve as a guarantee of security. Hence, this inclination toward digital currencies is expected to drive segment growth during the forecast period. With a 41% share, North America is currently the largest market for Crypto Wallets due to the presence of new players and growing demand from this region. View the Free Sample Report for insights into the contribution of all the segments and regional opportunities in the report. Key Companies in the Crypto Wallet Market: ARCHOS SA, Binance Services Holdings Ltd., BitGo Inc., BitLox Ltd., BitPay Inc., Bittrex Global GmbH, Breadwinner AG, Coinkite Inc., CoolBitX Ltd., ELLIPAL Ltd., Exodus Movement Inc., Gemini Trust Co. LLC, iFinex Inc., Ledger SAS, OPOLO Sarl, SecuX Technology Inc., ShapeShift AG, Shift Crypto AG, Sofitto NV, and Trezor Company sro Related Reports The e-wallet market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 26.41% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 163.43 billion. The growth of the market depends on several factors, including the rising number of online transactions, the rise in the use of wireless networks, and the surge in compliance requirements. The Global Cryptocurrency Market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 15.81% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 1,815.78 million. This cryptocurrency market report extensively covers market segmentation by Type (bitcoin, Ethereum, and others), Component (hardware and software), and Geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa). Rising investment in digital assets is one of the key drivers fueling the cryptocurrency market's growth. Crypto Wallet Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2021 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2022-2026 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 24.19% Market Growth 2022-2026 USD 686.05 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 16.23 Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution North America at 41% Key countries US, China, UK, Germany, and Switzerland Competitive landscape Leading Companies, Market Positioning of Companies, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled ARCHOS SA, Binance Services Holdings Ltd., BitGo Inc., BitLox Ltd., BitPay Inc., Bittrex Global GmbH, Breadwinner AG, Coinkite Inc., CoolBitX Ltd., ELLIPAL Ltd., Exodus Movement Inc., Gemini Trust Co. LLC, iFinex Inc., Ledger SAS, OPOLO Sarl, SecuX Technology Inc., ShapeShift AG, Shift Crypto AG, Sofitto NV, and Trezor Company sro Market dynamics Parent market analysis, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, and Market condition analysis for the forecast period. Customization purview If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized. ToC: Executive Summary Market Landscape Market Sizing Historic Market Sizes Five Forces Analysis Market Segmentation by WRITERS Market Segmentation by Geography Customer Landscape Geographic Landscape Drivers, Challenges, & Trends Company Landscape Company Analysis Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts 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 Collaboration focuses on climate health, health equity, artificial intelligence, and maternal health Seema Kumar, Cure CEO, speaks at CGI Spotlight Session on How Technologists and Skeptics Can Work Together to Balance the Benefits and Risks of AI NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Cure, a healthcare innovation campus in New York City, will partner with the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) to collaboratively pursue endeavors that address global health issues of equity, artificial intelligence, climate and maternal health. "The best way to support healthier communities is through greater access to more equitable healthcare and improved public health ecosystems that help us prepare, navigate, and recover from impacts due to disease, climate change or technology changes," said Greg Milne, CEO of the Clinton Global Initiative. "Cure's commitment, announced at CGI 2023, shows an incredible dedication to the wellbeing of future generations, and we are grateful to Cure for stepping up and taking action." Launched by President Clinton in 2005, CGI brings together established and emerging global leaders to create and implement solutions to the world's most pressing challenges. CGI works with partners to develop Commitments to Action new, specific, and measurable actions in climate resilience, health equity, and inclusive economic recovery and growth. The CGI 2022 meeting produced more than 140 Commitments to Action to improve access to health care, advance sustainability, create employment opportunities, support refugee resettlement, and more. The CGI 2023 Meeting will be held in New York City Sept. 18 to 19. "Cure's commitment with CGI reflects our shared mission to create and implement solutions to the world's most pressing challenges. Our new partnership will present many opportunities to jointly foster collaborative innovations and actions that leverage science, technology and policy across disciplines, sectors and geographies," said Seema Kumar, CEO of Cure. Kumar will speak at the CGI Spotlight Session on Monday, Sept. 18: The Future of AI is Already Here: How Technologists and Skeptics Can Work Together to Balance the Benefits and Risks of AI. Cure also will host a private CGI dinner featuring discussions of health equity concerns. About the Clinton Global Initiative Founded by President Bill Clinton in 2005, the Clinton Global Initiative is a community of doers representing a broad cross section of society and dedicated to the idea that we can accomplish more together than we can apart. Through CGI's unique model, more than 9,000 organizations have launched more than 3,900 Commitments to Action new, specific, and measurable projects and programs. Learn more about the Clinton Global Initiative and how you can get involved at www.ClintonGlobal.org. ABOUT CURE An affiliate of Deerfield Management located at 345 Park Avenue South in New York City, Cure is a 12-story innovation campus in the heart of New York City that features cutting-edge wet labs, premium event venues, and office spaceplus tools, mentoring, and other assistance to physician-scientists, entrepreneurs, academics, and nonprofits working across the spectrum of healthcare and biomedicine. Cure's mission is to foster and accelerate the development of therapies and cures and to facilitate critical conversations about the future of healthcare and medicine. For more information, please visit https://cure.345pas.com/ Media Contacts: Cure Caroline Drucker [email protected] (917) 588-3016 SOURCE Cure Bailey Brauer co-founders recognized among state's top business litigators DALLAS, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Clayton Bailey and Alex Brauer, co-founders of Bailey Brauer PLLC, are recognized among the state's top business litigators in the 2023 edition of the Texas Super Lawyers legal guide. This marks the 13th consecutive Texas Super Lawyers selection for Mr. Bailey. The respected trial and appellate attorney has earned a national reputation for success in complex matters involving contract disputes, business torts, RICO, employment law, trade secrets, deceptive trade practices, fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, antitrust, unfair business practices and the Packers and Stockyards Act. In addition to Super Lawyers, his work has earned Benchmark Litigation, The National Trial Lawyers, Texas Trailblazers, BTI Consulting and Lawdragon 500 Leading Litigators and Leading Plaintiff Financial Lawyers honors. Known for resolving complex disputes and a stellar record when presenting cases to judges and juries, Mr. Brauer assists clients with business controversies. His success in high-stakes cases has helped secure seven consecutive Texas Super Lawyers honors as well as Chambers USA Leading Lawyers, D Magazine's Best Lawyers in Dallas, Lawdragon 500 Leading Litigators and Texas Trailblazers recognition. He is also a Litigation Counsel of America Fellow. Selection to Texas Super Lawyers is limited to no more than 5% of eligible Texas attorneys and is based on a statewide survey of lawyers and extensive editorial review. The prestigious legal guide is published annually by Thomson Reuters in Texas Monthly and Super Lawyers magazines. The full 2023 listing can be found at SuperLawyers.com. About Bailey Brauer PLLC Bailey Brauer PLLC is nationally recognized for its trial and appellate work and provides battle-tested, sophisticated courtroom experience in high-stakes litigation matters. The firm focuses on complex commercial litigation, appeals and class actions. Media Contact: Rhonda Reddick 800-559-4534 [email protected] SOURCE Bailey Brauer PLLC SHANGHAI, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Daqo New Energy Corp. (NYSE: DQ) ("Daqo" or the "Company"), a leading manufacturer of high-purity polysilicon for the global solar PV industry, today announced that it will hold its annual general meeting (the "AGM") at Daqo New Energy Corp. Shanghai Office, 29th Floor, Huadu Building, No. 838, Zhangyang Road, Pudong District, Shanghai 200122, People's Republic of China on October 20, 2023 at 10 A.M. (Beijing time). Holders of record of the Company's ordinary shares at the close of business in the Cayman Islands on September 25, 2023 will be entitled to attend the AGM and any adjournment or postponement thereof in person. Holders of the Company's ordinary shares or ADSs may obtain a hard copy of the Company's annual report on Form 20-F, free of charge, from its website at http://www.dqsolar.com, by emailing the Company's Investor Relations Department at [email protected], or by writing to: Daqo New Energy Corp. Shanghai Office 29th Floor, Huadu Building No. 838, Zhangyang Road Pudong District, Shanghai 200122 People's Republic of China Attention: Investor Relations Department About Daqo New Energy Corp. Daqo New Energy Corp. (NYSE: DQ) ("Daqo" or the "Company") is a leading manufacturer of high-purity polysilicon for the global solar PV industry. Founded in 2007, the Company manufactures and sells high-purity polysilicon to photovoltaic product manufactures, who further process the polysilicon into ingots, wafers, cells and modules for solar power solutions. The Company has a total polysilicon nameplate capacity of 205,000 metric tons and is one of the world's lowest cost producers of high-purity polysilicon. For more information, please visit www.dqsolar.com SOURCE Daqo New Energy Corp. U.S. Entrants have until September 30, 2023, to Submit Applications for the Contest REIMS, France, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Champagne Taittinger announces the final call for applications for the prestigious 56th annual Le Taittinger. Established in 1967 as Le Taittinger, this celebrated competition is dedicated to preserving the richness of culinary heritage and passing it on to future generations of talented chefs. With just two weeks remaining in the application period, the Taittinger family is reminding burgeoning chefs from across the U.S. to submit their applications for this culinary journey by September 30, 2023. Past winners include a roster of currently Michelin-starred chefs such as Joel Robuchon and Michael Roth and rising stars like Jan Smink of Wolvega, last year's winner from the Netherlands. Champagne Taittinger Logo "Le Taittinger has always focused on uplifting the innovation, ingenuity and creativity showcased by new generations of young chefs," said President Vitalie Taittinger. "We want more than ever to celebrate the flair and talent of the chefs at the top of their game. The Le Taittinger invites the most gifted people from kitchens around the world to draw from their culture, roots and history." The competition, taking place in Paris, France, from January 28th to January 30th, accepts applicants between the ages of 24 and 40 with five or more years of culinary experience. The U.S. nominee will be selected by the competition's organizing committee, including U.S. President Dominque Crenn, chef, restauranteur and the only US-based female recipient of three Michelin stars for her restaurant, Atelier Crenn, in San Francisco. In 2023, Chef Claudette Zepeda of Vaga in San Diego was the competition's first-ever North American candidate. As part of the onsite competition, candidates are tasked with creating a dish highlighting one main ingredient or theme selected by the organizing committee. Candidates have the freedom to be inspired by ingredients and cuisines from all over the world. Their final recipe will be evaluated by an eight-member committee of esteemed and lauded chefs from around the world, and first-prize winners are awarded 20,000 ($21,468). For more information or to apply to enter, please visit the Le Taittinger website https://prixculinaire.taittinger.fr/gb/. About Champagne Taittinger Champagne Taittinger is one of the last remaining major marque Champagne Houses, both owned and actively managed by the family named on the label. Champagne Taittinger is the second largest vineyard or domaine owner in the region giving them ultimate control of quality from vine to bottle. The Champagnes are Chardonnay dominant, which gives them their signature elegance, delicacy and finesse. Champagne Taittinger is widely distributed around the world in 140 countries. To learn more about Champagne Taittinger visit: http://www.taittinger.com/. SOURCE Champagne Taittinger One of the largest jumps in the country puts Drew at 93 among liberal arts schools MADISON, N.J., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Drew University has skyrocketed in US News & World Report's 2024 college rankings. The publication bumped Drew up 17 spots to 93rd in the country among liberal arts colleges, one of the biggest jumps in the annual rankings. "It's exciting to be recognized for all the great work we're doing here at Drew," said President Hilary L. Link, PhD. "It's a testament to the quality of our university, our faculty, students, programs, and people to see such a dramatic increase in these rankings." The rankings are based on U.S. News' revamped methodology of 17 indicators of academic quality, putting greater weight on metrics like graduation and retention rates, undergraduate reputation, selectivity, and financial resources for students and faculty. Drew improved notably in graduation rate performance, which compares undergraduate student graduation rates against the predicted rates; peer assessment, compiled based on surveys of provosts, deans, and administrators across the country; and Pell grant graduation rate, measuring graduation rates of students receiving need-based grants. In addition to the overall ranking, Drew also improved 19 spots on US News' Top Performers on Social Mobility category, all the way to 10th in the country. The metric measures how well colleges advance social mobility by enrolling and graduating a significant number of Pell-eligible students. Drew stood out among local peers as the highest ranked school in New Jersey on both the overall list of national liberal arts colleges and the social mobility ranking, ahead of all other institutions in the state, both public and private. "We just had an amazing undergraduate admissions cycle to welcome an impressive and diverse cohort of new first-year and transfer students to our community. Our mission specifically calls for offering a diverse community of learners a challenging and individualized education," said Link. "That mission is truly lived every day by providing life-changing opportunities to students of a wide variety of socioeconomic backgrounds." A full listing of Drew's accolades is available here . About Drew University Drew University, a Phi Beta Kappa liberal arts university, includes the College of Liberal Arts, the Drew Theological School and the Caspersen School of Graduate Studies. Drew is located on a beautiful wooded campus in Madison, New Jersey, a thriving small town close to New York City. It has a total enrollment of more than 2,200 students and has 136 full-time faculty members, 96 percent of whom hold the terminal degree in their field. The Theological and Caspersen schools offer master's and doctoral degrees, and the College confers BA and BS degrees in 42 disciplines, 61 available minors, and offers 18 pre-professional programs, 19 dual-degree programs, and seven New York Semesters. Media Contact Stuart Dezenhall Drew University Communications [email protected] 973.408.3210 SOURCE Drew University LONDON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Drofa Comms, a global PR consulting agency specialising in representing prominent finance and fintech firms, is thrilled to announce its membership in the Rise community at Barclays' global FinTech hub. This strategic move positions Drofa Comms at the forefront of financial and fintech trends, enabling the firm to leverage its expertise and remain deeply connected with industry leaders and innovators. Rise, created by Barclays, stands as a global community that unites the world's top fintech experts and entrepreneurs, collaboratively crafting the future of financial services. By joining Rise, Drofa Comms gains exclusive access to cutting-edge hubs, mentorship programs, invaluable insights, and world-class facilities in the heart of the vibrant Shoreditch neighbourhood. Drofa Comms has firmly established itself as a trusted PR agency for leading finance and fintech brands. With headquarters in London, UK, the agency boasts a diverse portfolio of high-profile clients across commercial and investment banks, AMCs and AIFs, trading platforms, exchanges, payment solutions, and blockchain companies. The Drofa team brings together over 50 seasoned experts and advisors spanning PR, journalism, branding, media planning, trading, digital assets, and financial law. Their collective mission since 2011 has been to bridge the realms of PR and finance by conveying complex narratives in a simple yet compelling manner, resonating with diverse audiences. Valentina Drofa, co-founder and CEO of Drofa Comms, expresses her enthusiasm for this strategic partnership, stating, "Joining the Rise community aligns seamlessly with our vision of staying at the forefront of a dynamic financial and fintech ecosystem. We are excited about the potential this collaboration holds, as it not only enhances our ability to deliver innovative solutions to our clients but also fosters our commitment to being pioneers in the financial communications landscape." SOURCE Drofa Comms The Taliban Can Reverse the Unacceptable Ban on Girls' Education NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, we mark the second anniversary of the ban on secondary school girls' education in Afghanistan and join the world in calling for it to be lifted now. Denying education to girls is a violation of universal human rights. The de facto authorities can do the right thing for the long-suffering people of Afghanistan by ensuring that every girl in Afghanistan can access quality education and contribute to rebuilding their war-torn country. In all, 80% of school-aged Afghan girls are currently out of school that's 2.5 million girls denied their right to the safety, protection, opportunity of education their inherent human right. As the United Nations global fund for education in emergencies, Education Cannot Wait (ECW) stands in solidarity with all girls in Afghanistan who are courageously raising their voices for their right to education. Throughout the year, we will continue to highlight their call through our ongoing #AfghanGirlsVoicesglobal campaign, launched by The Rt. Hon Gordon Brown, UN Special Envoy for Global Education, ECW Executive Director Yasmine Sherif, and ECW Global Champion Somaya Faruqi. As one girl says, "I see a day when every Afghan girl will have the wings to soar, breaking free from the chains of ignorance and prejudice." Afghan girls and young women love their country and want to help rebuild it together with their fathers and brothers. ECW's Multi-Year Resilience Programme in Afghanistan aims to support more than 250,000 children and adolescents across some of the most remote and underserved areas of the country. ECW also calls for urgent additional funding from government donors, the private sector, philanthropic foundations and individuals to fill the US$30 million funding gap to fully implement this programme, and the US$670 million required to fully finance the results under our new Strategic Plan, which will reach 20 million crisis-impacted children worldwide over the next three years. "They think they can bury us in the shadows, but little do they know, we are seeds of resilience, ready to bloom and flourish," says one inspiring girl in the #AfghanGirlsVoices campaign. Together, we must ensure that, through education, every girl in Afghanistan can emerge from the shadows so they can contribute to a brighter future which every Afghan so deserves. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1656121/4275932/Education_Cannot_Wait_Logo.jpg SOURCE Education Cannot Wait ELK CITY, Okla., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A new scholarship opportunity by Elk City physician Dr. Brian Blick aimed at inspiring future healthcare professionals to develop creative solutions to pressing medical challenges has been announced today. The Dr. Brian Blick Grant for Healthcare Students, based in Elk City, OK, will provide a $1,000 award to a currently enrolled college or high school student pursuing a degree in a healthcare field. Applications are now open for the grant, which will be awarded annually. The grant was founded by Dr. Brian Blick, an anesthesiologist based in Elk City, to support and encourage students dedicated to healthcare. "Throughout my career, I've been continually impressed by the passion and talent of the next generation of healthcare professionals," said Dr. Blick. "With this grant, I want to help empower these students to turn their ideas into realities that could truly make a difference in healthcare on both national and global levels." To apply, students must submit a 1000 word essay answering the question, "What is a national or global healthcare problem that concerns you, and what innovative solutions do you propose to address it?" "We're looking for students who have done their research and have creative, outside-the-box ideas to tackle major healthcare challenges," said Dr. Brian Blick. "Whether it's a new medical device, treatment protocol, public health initiative or other innovation, we want to hear from the leaders of tomorrow." The winner will be announced on November 15, 2023 and will receive $1,000 to be used for educational expenses. Dr. Brian Blick, a Board Certified Anesthesiologist and founder of Western Oklahoma Pain Specialists, established this grant out of his long-standing dedication to healthcare and education. After earning his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine in 2013, he went on to complete his anesthesiology residency at the University of Kansas in 2017 before returning to his home state of Oklahoma. He also went on to complete a pain medicine fellowship at Louisiana State University in 2023. The deadline to submit applications for the grant is October 15, 2023. Full eligibility requirements, submission guidelines and more details can be found at www.drbrianblickgrant.com. All current and future healthcare students are strongly encouraged to apply. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Dr. Brian Blick Organization: Dr. Brian Blick Grant Website: https://drbrianblickgrant.com Email: [email protected] SOURCE Dr. Brian Blick Grant PETAH TIKVA, Israel, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Elmo Motion Control, a global technology leader in motion control solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Ronen Boneh as the new CEO (Chief Executive Officer) as of September 1, 2023. Ronen's distinguished career, spanning over 30 years, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in motion control. Ronen Boneh, Elmo Motion Control CEO Since 2008, Ronen has served as the Elmo Vice President of R&D. Prior to Elmo, he served as the CEO and co-founder of Control & Robotics Solutions Ltd. from 1994 to 2008. Elmo acquired Control & Robotics Solutions Ltd in 2008. Throughout his professional life, he constantly demonstrated exceptional vision, strategic ingenuity, and a passion for innovation. "We are thrilled that Ronen, a very experienced manager, is taking over the position as CEO of Elmo," said Mr. Thomas Fechner, a member of the board of management and responsible for factory automation at Bosch Rexroth. "His outstanding leadership and technology expertise will be invaluable in guiding Elmo Motion Control through its next phase of growth and development." Ronen Boneh expressed excitement about moving into the role of CEO and the opportunity to continue with the talented Elmo team. "I am honored to be appointed CEO of Elmo Motion Control, a company with a remarkable history of delivering cutting-edge innovation to its customers. Together, we will build on this strong foundation, capitalize on new opportunities, and chart a path of sustained success." Mr. Haim Monhait, the former Elmo CEO and founder since its inception, stated, "I am enthusiastic Ronen is moving into this role, as I know I am placing the company into capable hands." Haim established the company from an idea to a leading global technology player during his tenure, and the company extends its gratitude for his significant contributions. About Elmo Motion Control Ltd. Elmo has been a motion control technology leader for over 35 years, with millions of servo drives working 24/7 worldwide. Elmo offers complete motion control solutions from design to delivery of cutting-edge servo drives, network-based multi-axis motion controllers, and integrated servo motors. All solutions can be customized and configured using Elmo's proprietary advanced and easy-to-use software tools for any machine in any industry, such as semiconductors, lasers, robots, drones, life sciences, industrial automation, extreme environments, and more. The company employs more than 350 personnel with headquarters in Israel and offices in the United States, China, Germany, Italy, Korea, Singapore, and additional manufacturing in Poland. By advancing motion control with state-of-the-art technology, Elmo makes smart machines even smarter. As of 2022, Elmo is a Bosch Rexroth company. For more information, visit www.elmomc.com or email [email protected]. Copyright 2023. All brand names are the property of their respective owners and may or may not be trademarked. Media Contacts Robert Dugan, Marketing Manager at Elmo Motion Control T: +972-(3)-929-2300 (ext. 368) E: [email protected] Photo- https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211161/Elmo_CEO.jpg Logo- https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2209952/Elmo_Motion_Control_Logo.jpg SOURCE Elmo Motion Control, Ltd. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, September 18. The Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) is ready to increase transportation volumes to 83 million tons per year, the company told Trend. The CPC pipeline system is one of the largest investment projects in the energy sector with the participation of foreign capital in the CIS. It is unique in its own way, especially in the current political and economic situation in the region and the world. The length of the Tengiz Novorossiysk oil pipeline is 1,511 km. More than two-thirds of all Kazakh oil exports, as well as raw materials from Russian fields, including those located in the Caspian Sea, are transported along this route. Light oil of the CPC Blend grade has 0.54 percent sulfur and API density of 44.5. Shippers' interests are monitored by the company's Petroleum Quality Bank. Initially, the CPC system was conceived for deliveries mainly to the Mediterranean region, but for about 10 years now, supplies have gone far beyond its borders. CPC oil goes to markets around the world, to refineries in different countries. Transportation of oil via the CPC oil pipeline and its loading onto tankers from remote mooring facilities in the Novorossiysk area began in 2001. In 2022, the total amount of oil shipped exceeded 800 million tons; in May 2023, an 8,000-ton tanker was filled with oil at the CPC Marine Terminal. As the company said, taking into account shareholders plans to increase oil production in Western Kazakhstan, CPC has been implementing a Debottlenecking Program (DBNP) since 2018 to increase the throughput of the oil pipeline. The total budget of the DBNP is more than $600 million. Currently, the main facilities of the DBNP have been built and put into operation, thanks to which the CPC has actually achieved readiness to transport oil in the amount of up to 72.5 million tons per year through the territory of Kazakhstan and up to 83 million tons per year through the territory of Russia. Thus, by the end of 2023, the Consortium plans to complete work on the remaining DBNP facilities, in 2024 to begin replacing pipeline sections in the Atyrau and Astrakhan regions, and in 2026 to replace two remote mooring devices at the Marine Terminal. Speaking about operating results, the company said that, in the first half of 2023, 32 million tons of oil were transported via the Tengiz-Novorossiysk oil pipeline, which 3 percent more than the same period in 2022. Previously, the company's management reported that by the end of 2023, pumping in the amount of 61-62 million tons of oil was forecast. CPC shareholders include: Federal Agency for State Property Management represented by Transneft PJSC (trust management) - 24 percent, CPC Company - 7 percent, KazMunayGas - 19 percent, Kazakhstan Pipeline Ventures LLC - 1.75 percent, Chevron Caspian Pipeline Consortium Company 15 percent, LUKARCOB.V. 12.5 percent, Mobil Caspian Pipeline Company 7.5 percent, Rosneft-Shell Caspian Ventures Limited 7.5 percent, BG Overseas Holdings Limited 2 percent, Eni International N.A. N.V. S.ar.l. 2 percent and Oryx Caspian Pipeline LLC 1.75 percent. As CPC said, in the current situation, communications with shareholders from different countries are not a problem. "An algorithm for making corporate decisions via secure communication channels has been developed, face-to-face meetings are held in countries where all shareholders can be present - Kazakhstan, the UAE, Turkiye," the CPC said. NEW YORK, Sept. 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The enteral feeding devices market size is expected to grow by USD 1.36 billion from 2022 to 2027. In addition, the momentum of the market will progress at a CAGR of 6.42% during the forecast period, according to Technavio Research. The market has been segmented by End-user (Hospitals and home care), Product (Accessories and Enteral pumps), and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia, and Rest of World (ROW)). North America will contribute 46% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Various factors, such as the rising prevalence of chronic conditions such as cancer and neurological disorders, the increasing number of product launches with technological advances, the increasing presence of regional and global market players, and initiatives by government and non-profit organizations to create awareness about enteral feeding drive the growth of the enteral feeding devices market in the region. This report offers an up-to-date analysis of the current market scenario, the latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. Read Free PDF Sample Report Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Enteral Feeding Devices Market 2023-2027 Company Profile: ALCOR Scientific, Amsino International Inc., Applied Medical Technology Inc., Avanos Medical Inc., B.Braun SE, Becton Dickinson and Co., Boston Scientific Corp., Canafusion Technologies Inc., Cardinal Health Inc., Conmed Corp., Cook Group Inc., Danone SA, Fresenius SE and Co. KGaA, HMC Premedical Spa, Medela AG, Medline Industries LP, Moog Inc., Shenzhen Bestman Instrument Co. Ltd., Trendlines Group Ltd., Vygon SAS ALCOR Scientific: The company offers enteral feeding devices such as SENTINELplus Enteral Feeding Pump with dual display and simple alarms. To gain access to more vendor profiles available with Technavio, buy the report! Enteral Feeding Devices Market: Segmentation Analysis By end user, the growth of the hospitals segment is significant during the forecast period. Factors like the rise in the global aging population have resulted in higher rates of age-related conditions and illnesses that need hospitalization. Furthermore, owing to the compromised nutritional intake of elderly patients, enteral feeding devices have become essential to maintain their health during hospital stays. Learn about the contribution of each segment summarized in concise infographics and thorough descriptions. View Free PDF Sample Report "Besides analyzing the current market scenario, our report examines historic data from 2017 to 2021"- Technavio Enteral Feeding Devices Market: Driver & Trend: Driver Increasing prevalence of chronic conditions and preterm birth Rising number of new product launches Growing demand for home enteral nutrition The increasing prevalence of chronic conditions and preterm birth drives the enteral feeding devices market. There are rising chronic conditions such as cancers neurological conditions, and preterm births across the globe. This drives the growth of the market. Also, there is an increasing prevalence of oral cancer which develops on the tongue, oral mucosa, mouth, and oropharynx. Habits like smoking and frequent consumption of alcohol are some of the major factors attributed to the growth of oral cancer. Hence, such factors drive the growth of the enteral feeding devices market during the forecast period. Strategic alliances among market vendors are a key trend in the enteral feeding devices market. Identify key trends, drivers, and challenges in the market. Download to gain access to this information. Related Reports: The automated feeding systems market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.85% between 2023 and 2027, and the size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 2,203.53 million. This report extensively covers market segmentation by type (conveyor feeding systems and self-propelled feeding systems), product (hardware, software, and services), and geography (Europe, North America, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa). The rising population of cattle in farms is the key factor driving the global automated feeding systems market growth. The Global Livestock Feeding Systems Market size is estimated to increase by USD 2,583.84 million between 2022 and 2027 accelerating at a CAGR of 7.12%. This report extensively covers market segmentation by Application (poultry, ruminants, swine, and others), Technology (manual, automated, robotic, and others), and Geography (Europe, North America, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa). The global market for automated livestock feeding systems is being driven by the increasing population of cattle on farms. What are the key data covered in this enteral feeding devices market report? CAGR of the market during the forecast period Detailed information on factors that will drive the growth of the enteral feeding devices market between 2022 and 2027. Precise estimation of the enteral feeding devices market size and its contribution to the market in focus on the parent market Accurate predictions about upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior Growth of the mental enteral feeding devices market in North America, Europe, Asia, and ROW A thorough analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information about vendors Comprehensive analysis of factors that will challenge the growth of enteral feeding devices market vendors. ToC: Executive Summary Market Landscape Market Sizing Historic Market Sizes Five Forces Analysis Market Segmentation by End-user Market Segmentation by Product Market Segmentation by Geography Customer Landscape Geographic Landscape Drivers, Challenges, & Trends Company Landscape Company Analysis Appendix About Technavio 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. Contacts 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 Demeetra, headquartered in Kentucky, is a biotechnology company whose core focus is developing and optimizing gene editing technologies in commercially applicable systems. Demeetra's technologies and know-how are transferred to its partners through simple commercial licenses with freedom to operate. Commenting on the deal, Jack Crawford, CEO of Demeetra stated: "We're excited about the ERS license, granting us access to the CRISPR IP portfolio; synergizing perfectly with our dimeric Cas-CLOVER. This powerful combination will be available for sublicensing in bioprocessing and synthetic biology applications." Eric Rhodes, CEO, ERS Genomics was equally positive about the new licensee: "Demeetra's commitment to enabling scientific advancement harmonizes seamlessly with our mission to broaden the use of CRISPR/Cas9. By enhancing and expanding CRISPR/Cas9 accessibility, Demeetra is driving us closer to achieving our technology's full potential." Financial details of the agreement are not being disclosed. About Demeetra Centrally located in the Bluegrass State of Kentucky, Demeetra AgBio was launched in 2019. Since inception Demeetra has built extensive gene editing know-how, complementing internally developed as well as a globally sourced portfolio of intellectual property. Their scientific team is composed of experts with diverse backgrounds in gene editing, ranging from microbes and plants, to mammalian cells. Scientific achievements include being the first to successfully edit plants and yeast with their precise Cas-CLOVER technology. For more information visit: www.demeetra.com Contact information: Elizabeth Allen, [email protected] About ERS Genomics ERS Genomics is a biotechnology company based in Dublin, Ireland. The company was formed to provide broad access to the foundational CRISPR/Cas9 intellectual property held by Dr. Emmanuelle Charpentier. Non-exclusive licenses are available for research and sale of products and services across multiple fields including research tools, kits, reagents; discovery of novel targets for therapeutic intervention; cell lines for discovery and screening of novel drug candidates; GMP production of healthcare products; companion animal and livestock health; production of industrial materials such as enzymes, biofuels and chemicals; and synthetic biology. ERS holds over 100 patents worldwide. For additional information, please visit www.ersgenomics.com Media contact: Dara O'Donnell, ERS Genomics, [email protected], Tel: + 353-1-539 0083 Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2206959/Jack_Crawford_CEO_Demeetra.jpg Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2206961/Eric_Rhodes_CEO_ERS_Genomics.jpg Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2090619/ERS_Logo.jpg Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2206960/Demeetra_Logo.jpg SOURCE ERS Genomics Partnerships with the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, Flagship Pioneering, Lyda Hill Philanthropies, and Elevate Prize Foundation Will Accelerate the Discovery of Cures Hidden on Pharmacy Shelves PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Every Cure, a non-profit organization committed to unlocking additional diseases and patients that can benefit from existing drugs, announced today at the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) 2023 Meeting, four foundational funding partners. These partnerships with Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, Flagship Pioneering, Lyda Hill Philanthropies, and Elevate Prize Foundation will be used to discover new previously undiscovered uses for existing approved drugs by leveraging novel artificial intelligence (AI) tools. "Together, with our foundational funding partners, we will drive innovation and accelerate the discovery of new treatment options for devastating medical conditions, ultimately transforming the lives of countless individuals." says Every Cure CEO Grant Mitchell. Every Cure's Co-Founder & President, David Fajgenbaum, MD, MBA, MSc, also shared during his talk at CGI about major milestones that Every Cure has achieved over the last year since its launch at CGI 2022. For the first time in history, Every Cure has developed a comprehensive, open-source data engine to generate predictive efficacy scores for the potential for all 3,000 FDA-approved drugs to treat all 12,000 diseases. These results, which will be presented through the Every Cure LinkMap, will enable the rapid advancement of treatments to patients who need them most. Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI), a leading tech and philanthropic organization, is partnering by contributing funding and data science support. Tania Simoncelli, CZI's Vice President for Science in Society, shared "We are proud to partner with Every Cure, which aims to harness the power of artificial intelligence to better understand disease. Every Cure will create an open platform to link biological changes to disease mechanisms and therapies at scale, unlocking insights into human biology." Every Cure recently generated a first version of the scoring system with collaborators at Penn State University and one of the top hits was a drug that Dr. Fajgenbaum's team recently used to save a patient's life with a rare inflammatory condition. Every Cure has also established partnerships with two prominent healthcare innovation and investment organizations, Flagship Pioneering and Lyda Hill Philanthropies. Flagship Pioneering, which has founded over 50 companies, including Moderna, and Lyda Hill Philanthropies, which is committed to funding transformative advancements in science, are both well positioned to support Every Cure's commitment to rapid translation of scientific insights into patient impact and to facilitate connections across the drug development ecosystem. "We are pleased to support Every Cure toward achieving its mission to identify and advance new uses for existing medicines that are not otherwise being utilized for patients who need them," stated Noubar Afeyan, Ph.D., Founder and CEO of Flagship Pioneering. "We're excited to support Every Cure because we believe it has the potential to transform the drug development system," shared Lyda Hill, the Founder of Lyda Hill Philanthropies. Every Cure has also raised significant awareness over the last year and engaged with leaders across healthcare and government. In fact, the team met with President Biden's Chief of Staff, Jeff Zients, in the White House and presented at the Rare Disease Congressional Caucus briefing in Washington, DC this summer. In addition to making major discoveries that save lives, Every Cure will need to continue to raise awareness and disseminate findings among stakeholders. The Elevate Prize Foundation is supporting Every Cure with funding and resources to amplify its impact. "Our foundation is committed to 'making good famous.' We believe in the potential of Every Cure to amplify the need for innovation in the treatment of rare diseases and the resounding impact that will have on patients worldwide," says Joseph Deitch, founder of the Elevate Prize Foundation. Every Cure recently announced the addition of several prominent leaders to its Board of Directors, including former Proctor & Gamble CEO and VA Secretary, Bob McDonald, CZI VP, Tania Simoncelli, and former Pfizer Chief Medical Officer, Freda Lewis-Hall. Fajgenbaum closed his remarks at CGI 2023 by sharing about the importance of collaboration and partnership. "We're calling on the most talented drug development and data science experts to join our team. Moreover, we are seeking additional funding partners to sustain this important work to ensure that no patient is ever told 'we've tried everything' when there's a life saving cure on the pharmacy shelf." For further information or to express interest in partnering with Every Cure, please contact Brent Shaw ([email protected], 818-876-2691). About Every Cure Every Cure is a nonprofit organization dedicated to unlocking the full potential of every existing medicine to treat every disease possible. Repurposing existing drugs is the fastest and most efficient way to treat diseases with the greatest return on investment for saving lives. However, systemic barriers impede repurposing, so patients suffer while potential treatments are not fully utilized. Every Cure overcomes these barriers to systematically identify and advance promising repurposing opportunities and save lives. Every Cure is taking a revolutionary and disruptive approach to overcome these systemic barriers by developing a comprehensive, open-source data engine to generate predictive efficacy scores for all 3,000 drugs against all 12,000 diseases and rapidly advance treatments to patients. In partnership with academia, industry, and government, Every Cure is integrating proprietary and public data into a comprehensive dataset, optimizing AI ranking algorithms, validating the most promising drug-disease matches, performing trials, and ensuring patient access to effective therapies. Every Cure announced its launch in September 2022 at the Clinton Global Initiative. For more information, please visit EveryCure.org or connect with us on Twitter , LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . About Chan Zuckerberg Initiative The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative was founded in 2015 to help solve some of society's toughest challenges from eradicating disease and improving education, to addressing the needs of our local communities. Our mission is to build a more inclusive, just, and healthy future for everyone. For more information, please visit www.chanzuckerberg.com. About Flagship Pioneering Flagship Pioneering conceives, creates, resources, and develops first-in-category bioplatform companies to transform human health and sustainability. Since its launch in 2000, the firm has, through its Flagship Labs unit, applied its unique hypothesis-driven innovation process to originate and foster more than 100 scientific ventures, resulting in more than $90 billion in aggregate value. To date, Flagship has deployed over $3.4 billion in capital toward the founding and growth of its pioneering companies alongside more than $26 billion of follow-on investments from other institutions. The current Flagship ecosystem comprises 45 transformative companies, including Denali Therapeutics, Foghorn Therapeutics, Generate Biomedicines, Inari, Indigo Agriculture, Moderna, Omega Therapeutics, Sana Biotechnology, Seres Therapeutics and Tessera Therapeutics. About Lyda Hill Philanthropies Lyda Hill Philanthropies encompasses the charitable giving for founder Lyda Hill and includes her foundation and personal philanthropy. Our organization is committed to funding transformational advances in science and nature, empowering nonprofit organizations and improving the Texas and Colorado communities. Because Miss Hill has a fervent belief that "science is the answer" to many of life's most challenging issues, she has chosen to donate the entirety of her estate to philanthropy and scientific research. For more details visit Lydahillphilanthropies.org. About Elevate Prize Foundation Founded in 2019 by businessman and philanthropist Joseph Deitch, The Elevate Prize Foundation is a global non-profit that empowers social entrepreneurs and activists by providing them with the resources they need to amplify their impact. The Foundation's signature program is its annual Elevate Prize, which is awarded to 10 or more global leaders tackling pressing issues in innovative ways. The Elevate Prize Catalyst Award, another one of the Foundation's programs, recognizes prominent individuals for their commitment to inspiring global social action and using their influence for the good of humanity. In 2022, the Foundation launched The Elevate GET LOUD Award, a monthly grant to fuel grassroots movements and organizers on the frontlines committed to collective action and building power among communities. For more information, visit www.elevateprize.org and follow @ElevatePrize on Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook. About the Clinton Global Initiative Founded by President Bill Clinton in 2005, the Clinton Global Initiative is a community of doers representing a broad cross section of society and dedicated to the idea that we can accomplish more together than we can apart. Through CGI's unique model, more than 9,000 organizations have launched more than 3,900 Commitments to Action new, specific, and measurable projects and programs. Learn more about the Clinton Global Initiative and how you can get involved at www.ClintonGlobal.org SOURCE Every Cure WARWICK, R.I., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Weather and natural disaster-related travel issues have recently dominated news coverage. Everything from wildfires to hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes and even extreme heat have caused travel disruptions. While weather-related vacation issues are unpreventable, travel insurance can make dealing with it less stressful for travelers. InsureMyTrip's Director of Product, Meghan Walch, is answering common questions about how travel insurance works when it comes to extreme weather and natural disasters. Q: What happens if flights are grounded because of extreme weather or a natural disaster? Walch: Many plans may cover a traveler when common carriers such as airlines and cruise lines cease service due to weather. The cessation of services must be for a certain number of hours (the number of hours differs from plan to plan). Some plans may also offer coverage in the event that smoke from wildfires causes a flight delay. Plans may also offer coverage under trip delay if flights are grounded, and travelers need to purchase additional meals or overnight accommodations. (Note: there are per-day and policy maximums for this benefit.) Q: A storm or natural disaster damaged my resort am I covered? Walch: There may be coverage under trip cancellation or trip interruption if a hotel, resort, or vacation rental is devastated and made uninhabitable by a storm, natural disaster, or if there is a mandatory evacuation at your destination where local authorities are saying you should leave due to danger posed by a storm or natural disaster. Q: What if my resort is in the path of a hurricane? Walch: A few plans may cover when the traveler's destination is under a NOAA-issued hurricane warning. However, with most comprehensive travel insurance plans, the NOAA-issued hurricane warning must be issued for the traveler's destination within 24-48 hours of the traveler's scheduled departure. Q: What if I no longer want to travel because of extreme heat (or another issue) at my destination? Walch: For the flexibility to cancel a trip for reasons other than those listed as "covered reasons" on a policy (like changing your mind or fear), a traveler may consider Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) protection. CFAR is an optional time-sensitive benefit available on some plans that allow a traveler to cancel a trip for any reason, typically up to 48 hours before the scheduled departure. Reimbursement is usually 50-75% of the prepaid, non-refundable trip cost. A traveler must meet specific eligibility requirements and typically must purchase a policy with CFAR within 14-21 days of making an initial trip payment or deposit. Q: Will I be covered if I buy travel insurance after a storm or natural disaster impacts my travel plans? Walch: No. Travel insurance covers unforeseen events. So, if you buy a policy after a wildfire or storm is known, you will not be covered. That's why it's advised to purchase travel insurance as soon as you make a prepaid, non-refundable payment to ensure you are protected against any unforeseen events and to receive the maximum amount of coverage. Q: Will the airlines or cruise lines provide compensation for delays or cancellations due to weather or natural disaster? Walch: Flight cancellation policies vary by airline and circumstance. When an airline cancels a flight due to bad weather, most will try to rebook passengers on the next available flight. Airlines are not required to reimburse travelers for losses incurred due to a canceled flight if it is for a reason beyond their control like weather. Travelers concerned about protecting pre-paid, non-refundable trip expenses should consider traditional travel insurance. Media Contact: Meghan Kayata [email protected] * Note: all terms and conditions, coverage limits, and benefits differ from policy to policy. It is important to review and understand the details of a policy before purchasing. About InsureMyTrip It's simple. InsureMyTrip finds you the right travel insurance plan, every time. InsureMyTrip is the authority on travel insurance. We are committed to empowering travelers to make the best possible insurance decisions by leveraging our technology, data intelligence, and expertise. InsureMyTrip is rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau. SOURCE InsureMyTrip After 12 Years, Advocates and Lawmakers Secure Win for 218,000 Schoolchildren MCLEAN, Va., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education) thanks food allergy advocates, and Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal (D/WF-Manhattan), State Senator Cordell Cleare (D-30), Governor Kathy Hochul, and their staffs for passing Senate Bill S209A, an epinephrine auto-injector teacher training bill, signed into law on Friday evening. The tireless efforts of our advocates were instrumental in getting this bill, a version of which was originally introduced more than 12 years ago, passed. Senate Bill S209A goes into effect immediately and requires that the state's commissioner of health provide the state's more than 212,000 teachers in all New York public and non-public elementary and secondary schools, including charter schools, that are authorized to provide epinephrine auto-injectors, written information on how to recognize anaphylaxis and use an epinephrine auto-injector. "On behalf of the more than 218,000 New York state students with life-threatening food allergies, FARE is grateful for the work of Senator Cleare, Assemblymember Rosenthal, Governor Hochul, and advocates like Stacey and Jared Saiontz and Jill Mindlin and Maya Konoff," said Sung Poblete, RN, PhD, CEO of FARE. "For more than 12 years they fought an uphill battle to make our classrooms safer. With today's bill signing, we celebrate their determination that will ultimately protect millions of food allergic children in the years that follow." This new teacher training law ensures that students are better protected and safer in the place where they spend most of their day the classroom. FARE Advocates Jill Mindlin and Stacey Saiontz, parents of school age children, led the decade-plus long effort to pass this legislation. "Thanks to the hard work of advocates and lawmakers, all teachers in New York State will now be provided with the knowledge of how to save a student's life if they experience anaphylaxis in school. This law will make a huge difference in the lives of all NY families with school aged children living with food allergies," says Mindlin. Saiontz added that "today's bill means parents can send their food allergic children to school knowing their teachers are trained to protect them. And kids can go to school and learn, less anxious about their ever-present, life threatening, food allergies." Saiontz and Mindlin were joined over the last decade by many advocates who shared their passion including Patty Albert, Sara Albert, Zara Atal, Lauren Bowler, Dina Cannistraci, Georgina Cornago, Toni Guidosi, Sue Kelly, Rose & Julian Ostrow, Karen Palmer, Liz Rappaport, Thomas Silvera, Jon Terry and Toni Taylor from the Allergy Advocacy Association, and others. Maya Konoff, Jill Mindlin's daughter, who first lobbied for this measure when she was in elementary school and is now a college graduate, shared, "There are a lot of things that can be difficult and anxiety inducing when you're growing up with food allergies. School should not be one of those things. This bill is such an important step in ensuring that all kids with food allergies can safely attend school." Over the 12-year lobbying effort, food allergy advocates were joined by teachers, who wanted this essential information, to help build momentum for this law. FARE anticipates working with these involved teachers, food allergy advocates and other stakeholders to ensure the Commissioner of Health's materials are easy to understand and contain examples of different epinephrine auto-injectors. Jared Saiontz, who has 26 anaphylactic food allergies and has been advocating for this bill in Albany every year since the age of four, added, "Thank you to our NY legislators for making the teacher training law a reality. As a student living with many life-threatening food allergies, I know this law will allow all students like me to thrive in school without fear, knowing that the teachers around them have the tools and training to protect us." About FARE: FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education) is the nation's leading non-profit engaged in food allergy advocacy as well as the largest private funder of food allergy research. FARE's innovative education, advocacy and research initiatives transform the future of food allergy through new and improved treatments and prevention strategies, effective policies and legislation, and novel approaches to managing the disease. To learn more, visit: www.foodallergy.org. SOURCE FARE The 'Skincare that Saves Animals' Brand brings the Smurfs Forest to Life with Limited-Edition Skincare Collection; Commits Minimum of $50,000 to Rescue Organizations MCKINNEY, Texas, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- FarmHouse Fresh, the leading farm-grown skincare company focusing on high-nutrition ingredients and potent botanical extracts grown daily through sustainable hydroponic farming, has partnered with The Smurfs to launch a 6-piece, limited-edition skincare collection. The first of its kind, this partnership will bring the whimsical wonders of the Smurfs forest to life, while rescuing animals. FarmHouse Fresh has committed $1 from the sale of each product to the FHF "Smurfy Ever After Animal Rescue Project" to help urgent animal cases nationwide. Through batch codes on the packaging, customers will be able to learn the stories of the animals directly benefitting from their skincare purchase and follow their healing journeys. FarmHouse Fresh and the The Smurfs launch a 6-piece, limited-edition skincare collection. Smurf Cake Moon Dip Mousse from FarmHouse Fresh ($40) 100% of purchases of Smurfy Ever After Animal Rescue Project charitable merchandise go to help animals in need. This new collection features products infused with FarmHouse Fresh's hydroponically-grown botanical microgreens, exotic blue plants like blue tansy, blue borage oil, and blue lotus flower, and fresh organic fruits from local farms. The FarmHouse Fresh x Smurfs collection includes: Forest Flower Creamy Chamomile Cleanser ($31) Blue Lotus Hydration Cascade Gelee Moisturizer ($47) Smurfberry Jam Brightening Berry Hydration Mask ($33) Smurfcake Moon Dip Body Mousse ($40) Body Mousse Berry Blue Juicy Organic Lip Therapy Balm ($23) Smurfsoda Soothing Bath Soak ($12) with a surprise Smurfy fortune inside Available online and at FarmHouse Fresh spa and retail partners across the U.S., the launch also features 7 charitable FHF x Smurfs collectibles (T-shirt, silk scarves, trucker hat, jumbo stickers, keychains and mugs) that donate 100% of profits to the FHF Smurfy Ever After Animal Rescue Project. Additionally, thousands of spas, hotels and resorts will be offering exclusive Smurf-tacular treatments and blue-themed launch parties. Early spa visitors will be treated to collectible gifts, including cosmetic bags with a FHF x Smurf Village Silk Scarf. Shannon McLinden, CEO and Founder of FarmHouse Fresh, expressed her enthusiasm: "The Smurfs have always been close to our hearts, and this collaboration encapsulates the perfect blend of nostalgia and our commitment to animal welfare. Our customers, many of whom grew up watching the Smurfs and collecting the figurines, are giddy about trying a Smurfberry Jam facial mask, Smurfcake Moon Dip and the entire collection!" "This collaboration was perfectly aligned with our 'Rescue for 2' mission rescuing complexions and animals in need," said McLinden. One dollar of every jar from this collection is going to the FHF Smurfy Ever After Animal Rescue Project to save, rehabilitate, and heal neglected animals. The project, which has committed a minimum of $50,000, benefits a coalition of 9 nonprofit rescue organizations across the country that will be helping urgent animals in need. Each collection jar and bottle has a trackable batch code linked to the many animals they're directly helping. Customers can follow their healing journeys at FarmHouseFreshGoods.com. This national rescue project benefits the following animal rescue organizations across the U.S.: The Sanctuary at Red Bell Run, North Carolina Turning Point Donkey Rescue, Michigan FarmHouse Fresh Farm Animal Sanctuary, Texas Focus Rescue & Rehab, Ohio Archangel Animal Network, Texas Elephant Aid International & Elephant Refuge North America, Georgia Rescue Row Dog Rescue, Texas Dog is my Copilot, Wyoming Alaqua Animal Refuge, Florida To encourage additional donations to urgent animal rescues, the company has launched the World's Smurfiest Pets Selfie Challenge a free selfie generator featuring Smurfette who kisses pets. Participants upload their pet's photo and then caption what's "smurfiest" about them. The individual then nominates a minimum of five people to do the same thing, having only a 24-hour time frame to complete the challenge and make a donation to the FHF Smurfy Ever After Animal Rescue Project. The free generator is found here: https://farmhousefreshgoods.com/pages/smurf-into-action. The FarmHouse Fresh x Smurf collection includes: Blue Lotus Hydration Cascade Gelee Moisturizer ($47): This dewy blue lotus gelee moisturizer replenishes and soothes dry skin, restoring radiance and elasticity with a time- release cascade of 2% retinol & powerful peptides. Infused with the antioxidant-rich power of blue tansy oil, blue lotus extract, honeyberry extract & FHF-grown watercress extract. Forest Flower Creamy Chamomile Cleanser ($31): This ultra-soothing, creamy cleanser is a pH-balanced blend of ingredients that removes all traces of makeup, dirt, mascara & sunscreen leaving your skin feeling Smurf-tastically soft and smooth. The hydrating and replenishing benefits of chamomile & blue lotus (potent plant extracts jam-packed with antioxidants), nourishing coconut milk and micronutrient-rich FHF-grown lemon balm extract transport skin to an enchanted complexion. Smurfberry Jam Brightening Berry Hydration Mask ($33): Dip into a cool, creamy-soft hydrating mask packed with organic strawberries & blueberries to visibly brighten plus, fresh avocado butter, extract & oil to instantly quench dry skin. A seriously soothing blend of blue tansy oil, blue lotus extract, honeyberry extract & FHF-grown red amaranth extract gives your skin an antioxidant boost, leaving it radiant & refreshed. Berry Blue Juicy Organic Lip Therapy ($23): Juicy, kissably-soft plum tinted lips with this rich and creamy lip treat, made with blue borage oil, organic blueberries, shea & cocoa seed butters, vitamin E, avocado oil and FHF-grown "Rainbow Sprinkles" (micro chard & beet extracts) for an antioxidant boost! Smurfcake Moon Dip Back To Youth Ageless Body Mousse ($40): A light-as-air whipped body mousse in the Smurfs' most delicious dessert scent, Honeycake. Notes of creamy vanilla, warm honey and gooey caramel that'll wrap your body in plush comfort. Its powder-soft peaks combine with powerful age-fighting peptides & retinol that smooth the look of wrinkles. Infused with FHF-grown blue Tuscan kale extract and emollient oils that leave your skin feeling Smurf-sationally soft, smooth and youthful! Smurfsoda Soothing Bath Soak Moisturizing Fizzer; Crushed Organic Blueberries & Smurfy Fortune Inside ($12): This Smurf-tacular bath soak transports you with a mouthwatering aroma of a Smurfsoda. Imagine the fruity scent of crushed organic blueberries in freshly-baked muffins, juicy strawberries & sweet cream soda. Simply add to warm running bath water and let the nourishing coconut oil, vitamin E and mineral-rich Epsom salts work their magic on your skin. You'll emerge from the tub silky soft and smelling Smurfy-licious, with a surprise Smurfy fortune to read. FarmHouse Fresh is an award-winning natural skincare company growing fresh hydroponic botanicals daily on their farm in McKinney, Texas. The company's Farm to Table treatments are served through spas, hotels and resorts around the world, from Dallas to Dubai. The company focuses on high-nutrition skincare using sustainable hydroponic farming to grow botanical microgreens that become extracts in the company's products. Philanthropy is at the core of the company's sustainability promise, with the ranch headquarters doubling as a nonprofit farm animal sanctuary. FarmHouse Fresh believes in providing rescue for 2: complexions and animals in need. Every purchase helps rescue and rehabilitate animals customers can track the batch code on their jar to learn the stories of the animals directly benefiting from their skincare purchase. At the FarmHouse Fresh Ranch Headquarters, employees are directly involved with the care of rescue animals. FarmHouse Fresh products can be purchased at thousands of top destination spas, resorts, and finer retailers across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and the Middle East, including Four Seasons, Ritz-Carltons, Beaches Resorts, Disney, Marriotts, Hyatts, The Broadmoor, Waldorf Astorias, Omni Hotels, Burke Williams Spas, The Woodhouse Day Spas and more. For more information about this or any other FarmHouse Fresh retail or professional spa product, please contact FarmHouse Fresh at 888-773-9626 or visit the website at www.farmhousefreshgoods.com. SOURCE FarmHouse Fresh Report examines Gen Z's economic and societal concerns and explores their influence on consumer businesses and the broader workforce NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Money continues to be a growing concern for Gen Z as financial uncertainty, worry about an uncertain future and distrust of large businesses propels generational anxiety to an all-time high, according to the Ernst & Young LLP ( EY US ) 2023 Gen Z Segmentation Study. "Right now, Gen Z is particularly important as the newest generation of consumers, employees and citizens that will dramatically impact businesses today and into the future," said Marcie Merriman , EY Americas Cultural Insights & Customer Strategy Leader. This third iteration of the Gen Z Segmentation Study gathered insights from over 1,500 participants across the US born between roughly 1997 and 2007 (currently aged 16 to 26 years old). The survey aimed to track Gen Z's personal and professional interests and outlook on mental health, trust, technology, career and lifestyle ambitions. "Our research has consistently found that mental health is an ongoing challenge for Gen Z," Merriman said. "As the generation moves into our prime workforce and consumer markets, several shifts are happening simultaneously. The oldest Gen Z are aging out of their parents' health care plans this year, and they are feeling the impact of financial independence amid economic uncertainty. These factors are shaping their views of work and life and what success looks like." Financial fears are driving the 'monetization generation' Less than a third of Gen Z (31%) feel financially secure, with more than half (52%) saying they are very or extremely worried about not having enough money. Placing importance on making money has consistently increased year-over-year, with 46% of respondents saying it was a top priority compared with 32% in 2021 and 38% in 2019. Among the financial fears for Gen Z are: More than a third (39%) said they are very or extremely stressed or worried about making the wrong choices with their money. 69% rate their current financial situation as only "fair" or worse, with 32% rating their current finances as poor or very poor. As a result, Gen Z normalizes working multiple jobs to hedge their bets against the future by preparing well now. Nearly two-thirds (65%) of Gen Z were employed in a part-time or full-time job last year, while 56% earned money from freelance or "side hustle" work. Moreover, 39% of Gen Z earned money working both a job and a side hustle. This pragmatic need to get ahead by whatever means necessary is changing how they view work, how they approach savings, and when and how they choose to spend their money. Anxiety is a norm for this generation and continues to rise While each of our previous Gen Z studies (conducted in 2019 and 2021) has called out stress and anxiety as a hallmark of this generation, this latest research reveals that nearly half of Gen Z (47%) report excessive anxiety or worry that is difficult to control on an ongoing basis. While a COVID-19-related increase in worry and anxiety was expected in the last study, a continued increase in this 2023 edition shows mental health has become an even greater concern for this generation. Wellness, for Gen Z, is a mix of physical, mental and social health and a common talking point and source of concern for themselves as well as their friends and loved ones. And 54% of Gen Z said they were moderately, very or extremely worried across a variety of topics, up from 46% in 2021 and 30% in 2019. Gen Z's awareness of their own socioemotional health and genuine concern for others' well-being is paramount for business leaders. Companies will need to rework their culture and benefits structure to account for Gen Z's values, meaning mental health and caretaking benefits may be more of a priority for younger workers, beyond what older generations may have required or asked for. Integrity and transparency are key to earning Gen Z's trust Having been raised with the contradictions of the world at their fingertips, Gen Z is unbound by past societal standards. They are natural skeptics regarding who or what is telling the truth and look for transparency and authenticity as the gateway to trust. When asked about the likelihood that they can trust the following organizations to do what is right, large businesses and the federal government scored significantly lower (34%) than small businesses (71%) and their supervisor (71%). Being authentic and true to oneself is very or extremely important, according to 91% of Gen Z. They are not "falling in line" with past expectations and instead are paving new roads for integrity, inclusion and trust in the workplace and driving a shift to intentional consumerism. Their inherent mistrust may be further exacerbated by the ongoing efforts to integrate generative AI into our day-to-day lives. With 67% of respondents already indicating that most people can't be trusted, asking young employees, consumers and citizens to put their faith in a new technology that has the potential to produce false content may be another barrier for business leaders to tackle in winning the trust battle with Gen Z. Gen Z's diversity cannot be ignored Recognizing the psychographic nuances within the generation what we call the five segments of Gen Z can help businesses better understand the diversity within Gen Z and the different expectations they will drive for the organizations that wish to engage them as employees and consumers. The report further analyzes behavioral and attitudinal groupings of the Stressed Strivers, Big Dreamers, Authentic Activists, Secluded Perfectionists and Carefree Constituents segments and how these cohorts have changed. 2023 Gen Z Segmentation Study methodology Ernst & Young LLP surveyed a representative sample of 1,553 members of Gen Z from across the United States. The online survey was completed February 3-16, 2023. To be considered a member of Gen Z, a person had to have been born between 1997 (turning age 26 in 2023) and 2007 (turning age 16 in 2023). The survey recruited a representative mix of age, race/ethnicity, gender, geographic region, educational attainment and socioeconomic status. About EY EY exists to build a better working world, helping create long-term value for clients, people and society and build trust in the capital markets. Enabled by data and technology, diverse EY teams in over 150 countries provide trust through assurance and help clients grow, transform and operate. Working across assurance, consulting, law, strategy, tax and transactions, EY teams ask better questions to find new answers for the complex issues facing our world today. EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. Information about how EY collects and uses personal data and a description of the rights individuals have under data protection legislation are available via ey.com/privacy. EY member firms do not practice law where prohibited by local laws. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com . This news release has been issued by Ernst & Young LLP, a member firm of EY serving clients in the US. SOURCE EY The tech company specializes in payments for rising economies seizes opportunities in India's rapidly growing digital commerce sector, providing global merchants with the country's most used payment methods CURITIBA, Brazil, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tech company specializing in payments for rising markets EBANX announced today the expansion of its operations to India, adding a new region to its portfolio that already reaches 18 countries in Latin America and Africa. With its technological and financial solutions, EBANX will enable global merchants to offer their Indian customers the most used local payment methods, starting with the local real-time payments system UPI (Unified Payments Interface) and cards, enabling businesses and people to thrive in the booming digital commerce space in India. After growing its footprint to 15 Latin American countries for over a decade and recently 3 African countries, EBANX is moving forward with its global expansion on the Asian continent. India holds immense potential for digital payment solutions, and EBANX is committed to leveraging this opportunity. The country's digital commerce sector is projected to grow 35% by 2025, according to projections from Statista, with a market worth over USD 100 billion and a potential user base of 400 million people. As India progresses towards becoming the world's third-largest economy by 2027, surpassing Japan and Germany, its GDP could more than double by 2031, reaching an impressive USD 7.5 trillion, according to Morgan Stanley . By expanding its operations to India, EBANX aims to bridge the gap between global businesses and Indian customers, enabling secure, convenient, and localized payment experiences across industry verticals like SaaS, Digital Gaming, Social Media, Digital Ads, Streaming, and Online Retail. As the company continues its mission of expanding into rising markets, this strategic move reinforces EBANX's commitment to empowering businesses, customers, and entire ecosystems worldwide. "India is such a powerful market for global digital commerce. The country saw its digital payments grow four times over the last six years, solidifying a very diverse, customer-centric payments landscape that has access at its core. We are excited to expand our operations into India, bringing our expertise in connecting rising economies and global brands but, most importantly, having the opportunity to be a part of the acceleration that is taking place in the country," said Joao Del Valle, CEO and Co-founder of EBANX. UPI, the increasingly popular local payment for Indian customers Created in April 2016 by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), UPI is a technology that combines multiple banking services, smooth fund routing, and merchant payments into a single online commerce checkout flow. UPI has emerged as a popular real-time payment system, allowing individuals to make instant and secure smartphone transactions. With over 300 million users in India, according to NPCI , UPI has processed over USD 1 trillion in the past year, equivalent to one-third of the country's GDP, as stated by the entity . This widespread adoption showcases the convenience and reliability of UPI's services, including peer-to-peer fund transfers, bill payments, online purchases, and more. "In rising markets like Latin American and African countries, we noticed a movement towards real-time and alternative payments. India is a pioneer in instant payment systems, and that is why EBANX will start its operations focusing on UPI as one of the main payment methods," said Paula Bellizia, President of Global Payments at EBANX. "As the Indian market warmly embraces digital payments and digital commerce continues its rapid growth, we see great opportunities for businesses, and meaningful partnerships being fostered. Our roadmap for India is completely aligned with our core mission at EBANX: creating access through technological and financial solutions, to connect millions of people, businesses and ecosystems in rising markets to the global digital economy," she added. With its 24/7 operation and support for multiple banks, UPI offers users the ability to make payments, send and receive money utilizing unique UPI IDs or scanning QR codes. The system also includes recurrence features, allowing users to schedule payments for subscriptions, further enhancing its appeal to businesses and consumers alike. ABOUT EBANX EBANX is the leading payments platform connecting global companies with customers from one of the fastest-growing digital markets in the world. The company was founded in 2012 in Brazil with the mission of giving people access to buy in international digital commerce. With powerful proprietary technology and infrastructure, combined with in-depth knowledge of the markets where it operates, EBANX enables global businesses to connect with hundreds of payment methods in different countries in Latin America, Africa, and Asia. EBANX goes beyond payments, increasing sales and fostering seamless purchase experiences for businesses and clients. For more information: Website: https://www.ebanx.com/en/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ebanx PR Agency Content CO: Leonardo Stamillo +1 (646) 393-7460 [email protected] SOURCE EBANX The "Barite Market: Global Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2023-2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. DUBLIN, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The global barite market has made significant strides, reaching a size of US$ 1.8 Billion in 2022. Looking ahead, industry experts anticipate continued growth, with the market poised to reach US$ 2.3 Billion by 2028, reflecting a commendable growth rate (CAGR) of 4.3% during the period from 2023 to 2028. Barite, a naturally occurring mineral, is characterized by its white or colorless appearance and is composed of barium and sulfate. Within the barite group, one can find anhydrite, celestine, and anglesite. Barite is typically extracted from lead-zinc mines and is found in various forms, including vein, residual, and bedded deposits. While vein and residual deposits are hydrothermal in nature, bedded deposits are of a sedimentary origin. Barite boasts several advantageous properties, including low solubility, high density, chemical inertness, and cost-effectiveness. It serves a multitude of purposes, such as a weighting agent, filler, and extender in various industries, including oil and gas, chemicals, rubber, plastics, medicine, and pharmaceuticals. Furthermore, it plays a pivotal role in the production of barium carbonate. One of the key drivers fostering market growth is the substantial expansion of the oil and gas sector, accompanied by the surge in offshore and ultra-deep exploration activities worldwide. Barite's application as a weighting agent in drilling fluids for oil wells is instrumental in countering the pressure generated during drilling operations. The increasing adoption of barite in the manufacture of plastic products is another catalyst for market expansion. Barite, being non-toxic, water-soluble, and chemically stable, serves as an ideal chemical filler, enhancing the gloss, strength, and weather resistance of plastic items. Additionally, rising demand for barite in the production of paints, coatings, rubber products, pharmaceuticals, and automobile components contributes significantly to market growth. Factors such as rapid urbanization and the growing use of barite in the medical industry to absorb X-rays and gamma rays are expected to further drive market expansion. Key Questions Answered in This Report: How has the global barite market performed so far and how will it perform in the coming years? What has been the impact of COVID-19 on the global barite market? What are the key regional markets? What is the breakup of the market based on the grade? What is the breakup of the market based on the application? What are the various stages in the value chain of the industry? What are the key driving factors and challenges in the industry? What is the structure of the global barite market and who are the key players? What is the degree of competition in the industry? Competitive Landscape: The competitive landscape of the industry has also been examined along with the profiles of the key players being Anglo Pacific Minerals Ltd. Ashapura Minechem Limited (AMCOL International Corporation) Baker Hughes Company International Earth Products LLC Milwhite Inc. Newpark Resources Inc. P&S Barite Mining Co. Ltd. Schlumberger Limited Sojitz Corporation The Andhra Pradesh Mineral Development Corporation Limited The Cary Company Key Market Segmentation: Breakup by Grade: Up to 3.9 Special Grade 4.0 Special Grade 4.1 Special Grade 4.2 Special Grade 4.3 and Above Breakup by Application: Oil and Gas Chemicals Pharmaceuticals Others Breakup by Region: North America United States Canada Asia-Pacific China Japan India South Korea Australia Indonesia Others Europe Germany France United Kingdom Italy Spain Russia Others Latin America Brazil Mexico Others Middle East and Africa For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/t7ou3d 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: Laura Wood Senior Manager [email protected] SOURCE Research and Markets ASTANA, Kazakhstan, September 18. The volume of railway transportation between Kazakhstan and the countries of the Organization of Turkic States has increased, said Deputy Chairman of the Board of Kazakhstan Railways (KTZ) Anuar Akhmetzhanov at the second meeting of the heads of railway administrations of the OTS states in Istanbul, Trend reports. Thus, since the beginning of the year, the volume of railway transportation between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan has increased by 12 percent, Turkiye by 28 percent, Azerbaijan by 14 percent, and Uzbekistan by 27 percent. "To ensure the passage of increasing transit freight traffic, KTZ is working to expand infrastructure capacity. The necessary measures are being taken to further increase freight traffic both along already established routes and to develop new promising projects," he said. According to him, the second track of the Dostyk-Moyynty railway section is being built, and work is underway to implement projects for the construction of the Darbaza-Maktaaral, Bakhty-Ayagoz lines, and bypass route around Almaty. "Within three years, KTZ plans to build over 1,200 km of railways. This will significantly increase the countrys transport potential and increase the efficiency of the transportation of export products," he added. KTZ plans to transport about 29 million tons of cargo through the KTZ network in September of this year (within the main plan). In August, more than 26 million tons were transported through the KTZ network, which is 8 percent higher than the same indicator of the previous year. The volume of cargo transportation by rail in Kazakhstan amounted to 145.9 million tons for the period from January to July 2023. The volume of coal amounted to more than 60 million tons, which is 40 percent of all transportation through the KTZ. In addition, 18.3 million tons of solid fuel and 41.7 million tons of coal for domestic consumption were exported from Kazakhstan. Leader in China's AI movement; Asia's 'number one' economist; and one of Mid East's most powerful businesswomen among headliners confirmed for debut forum DUBAI, UAE, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- One of Japan's largest investment firms with more than US$500 billion in assets under management (AUM) is spearheading an indomitable presence of Asian capital power at a UAE conference next month transforming a new global economy. Takashi Maruyama, Chief Investment Officer, Asset Management One, Japans second largest asset management fund, is confirmed to speak on the inaugural SuperBridge Summit Dubai, taking place from 16-17 October at the iconic Museum of the Future. International line-up of speakers at the SuperBridge Summit Dubai include Dr. Hongjiang Zhang, Advisor to the Beijing Academy of AI in China, an award-winning computer scientist, holder of more than 150 patents, a Chinese AI guru, and author of numerous books. The inaugural SuperBridge Summit, taking place from 16-17 October 2023 at Dubai's iconic Museum of the Future is a unique platform converging more than 500 investors, business, government, policy and cultural leaders from 20 countries to accelerate investment and co-creation opportunities in hitherto untapped and under-explored markets. Channelled through future-focused outcomes, it will intensify collaborations in the world's largest and rapidly expanding economies, including China, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Brazil, UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and Nigeria, which, according to estimates, will collectively contribute over 45 percent of the world's GDP by 2050. The powerful two-day forum has confirmed a diverse international line-up of influential speakers seen for the first time in the Middle East, including Dr. Tuan Le Anh, Chief Investment Officer of Dragon Capital in Vietnam, and Takashi Maruyama, Chief Investment Officer, Asset Management One, Japan's second largest asset management fund with half a trillion USD in AUM. Joining more than 60 speakers from across the globe, Dr. Tuan and Mr. Maruyama will unlock the multifaceted investment value of cross-border capital allocation for the world's estimated US$11.3 trillion worth of sovereign wealth funds. Mr. Maruyama said cross-regional investments can play a beneficial role when building an investment portfolio, mitigating risk while offering the chance of superior returns. "However, they do expose investors to divergent regulatory frameworks, cultural nuances, and geopolitical dynamics," he said. "Japan's equity market has long been neglected by global investors despite the rally this year that captured wide attention." "I am looking forward to presenting the case of investing in Japan at SuperBridge Summit in Dubai, and doing a deep dive into the due diligence and strategic considerations that investors need to look at before embarking on the cross-regional journey." AI foundation models to advance research around cancer and other diseases Reconciling future missions with today's realities, SuperBridge Summit Dubai will connect the world's new leaders, accelerating growth and prosperity via the most pertinent topics and issues under the overarching theme of Connectivity, Liveability, Sustainability, and Investments in a New Global Economy. Dr. Hongjiang Zhang, Advisor to the Beijing Academy of AI in China, an award-winning computer scientist, holder of more than 150 patents, a Chinese AI guru, and author of numerous books, will sit on an executive panel unleashing AI for practical purposes in the real world. Joined by prominent global AI leaders, Dr. Zhang's session arrives as new research suggests generative AI, the type that powers LLM (large-language-model) technology, will generate $4.4 trillion in new value annually, unleashing a new wave of AI diffused productivity. Dr. Zhang said the huge technological breakthrough in AI foundation models has catalysed a new turning point in the third wave of this cutting-edge tool: "As a fundamental platform, the AI foundation model will become the next generation of super entrance, systematically promoting industries into new paradigms, and making critical contributions to the efficiency revolution in various industries," said Dr. Zhang, pointing to pharmaceuticals as a prime beneficiary. "The Beijing Academy of Artificial Intelligence has made significant progress in using foundation models to reduce the design complexity of macromolecular drugs, and is expected to be applied in new treatment plans for diseases such as cancer. "The foundation model will also greatly improve the production efficiency of traditional industries, such as finance, education, agriculture, manufacturing, and other fields, and will change the manufacturing process, production mode, and business model of these traditional industries." A pioneering initiative by KAOUN International, a subsidiary of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), and the SuperBridge Council, the SuperBridge Summit Dubai is held in partnership with the 43rd edition of GITEX Global, the world's largest and most influential tech event hosted in Dubai, attracting tech executives and investors from 170 countries. Other headline speakers confirmed for the visionary programme include Dr. Jun Ma, Founder and President of China's Institute of Finance and Sustainability, and Asia's number one economist according to Institutional Investor; Noor Sweid, General Partner at Global Ventures, and ranked among the Forbes 100 most powerful Middle East businesswomen in 2023; and Lionel Zinsou, Founder and Managing Partner of SouthBridge Group, a financial advisory service company dedicated to Africa. More information is available at www.superbridgedubai.com Website: http://superbridgedubai.com/ Press Registration: http://event.superbridgedubai.com/MediaRegistration On social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/superbridgesummit/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superbridgesummit/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/superbridgedxb LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/superbridgesummit/about/ Hashtag: #SuperBridgeDubai About KAOUN International KAOUN International is the independent events company and wholly owned subsidiary of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) established to organize and manage events internationally. Derived from the Arabic word 'universe', KAOUN International's mission is to 'Create Limitless Connections' for the industries and markets in which it operates. Created to leverage the 40-year legacy of DWTC's events management business and drive future MICE sector opportunity in the MENASA region. KAOUN International delivers game-changing live experiences that build robust business connections, create opportunity, and stimulate economic growth, building on DWTC's extensive portfolio of business and consumer events spanning multiple sectors, including technology, food and hospitality, sustainability, broadcast and satellite, automotive, talent development and leisure marine. About the SuperBridge Council The SuperBridge Council was established to synergize and bring together a new non-political platform for global leaders from fast-growing economies. It bridges the old and the young, tradition and modernity, the north and the south, the east and the west, to inspire new strategies and forge sustainable solutions for the next generations to thrive. The inaugural edition of the show will take place from 16-17 October 2023, at the Museum of the Future in Dubai, UAE. More information: http://superbridgedubai.com/ Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2213631/Takashi_Maruyama.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2213632/Zhang_Hong_Jiang.jpg SOURCE SuperBridge Summit Dubai The "Nanoporous Membranes Market: Global Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2023-2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. DUBLIN, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The global nanoporous membranes market has witnessed substantial growth, with its size reaching US$ 816.6 Million in 2022. Looking ahead, the market is projected to continue its upward trajectory, with an expected valuation of US$ 1,218.7 Million by 2028, demonstrating a noteworthy growth rate (CAGR) of 6.7% during the period from 2023 to 2028. Nanoporous membranes are rapidly gaining prominence as they supplant traditional water treatment technologies. Their appeal lies in attributes such as low energy consumption, remarkable efficiency, cost-effectiveness, operation at room temperature, and straightforward processing. Furthermore, these membranes boast extensive applications in various domains, including electrocatalysis, nanodevice fabrication, energy, environmental science, and analytical science. Researchers are currently directing their efforts toward the development of specialized nanoporous adsorbent products, particularly tailored for the electronics manufacturing and biomedical sectors. This drive has led to a surge in demand on a global scale. Notably, nanoporous membranes excel in water purification, effectively filtering an array of pollutants, ranging from salts and microbes to organic molecules and metallic ions. As the demand to treat wastewater containing minute contaminants escalates due to freshwater scarcity, these membranes are playing a pivotal role in addressing this challenge. Furthermore, governments worldwide are implementing stringent regulations regarding wastewater treatment for industries that consume substantial volumes of water. Coupled with this, the proliferation of water treatment plants and the increase in water salination activities contribute to the growing adoption of nanoporous membranes. In addition to their water treatment applications, nanoporous membranes are finding their footing in the biomedical field. They are being utilized for drug delivery, single molecular analysis, immunoisolation, biosensing, and the separation and sorting of biomolecules, fostering market growth. Leading industry players are further augmenting the market through substantial investments in research and development (R&D) activities, aimed at introducing innovative product variants to gain a competitive edge. Other factors fueling the optimistic outlook of the market encompass increased usage in the food processing industry, a growing inclination toward biological water treatment technologies, and continuous technological advancements. These dynamics collectively contribute to the positive trajectory of the nanoporous membranes market. Key Questions Answered in This Report What was the size of the global nanoporous membranes market in 2022? What is the expected growth rate of the global nanoporous membranes market during 2023-2028? What has been the impact of COVID-19 on the global nanoporous membranes market? What are the key factors driving the global nanoporous membranes market? What is the breakup of the global nanoporous membranes market based on the material type? What is the breakup of the global nanoporous membranes market based on the application? What are the key regions in the global nanoporous membranes market? Who are the key players/companies in the global nanoporous membranes market? Competitive Landscape: The competitive landscape of the industry has also been examined along with the profiles of the key players being Alfa Laval AB Applied Membranes Inc. AXEON Water Technologies DuPont de Nemours Inc. Hunan Keensen Technology Co. Ltd. inopor GmbH (Rauschert GmbH) InRedox LLC Koch Separation Solutions (Koch Industries Inc.) Nitto Denko Corporation Osmotech Membranes Pvt. Ltd. SiMPore Inc. SmartMembranes GmbH. Key Market Segmentation: Breakup by Material Type: Organic Inorganic Hybrid Breakup by Fabrication Method: Phase Inversion Interfacial Polymerization Track-etching Electrospinning Breakup by Application: Water Treatment Fuel Cells Biomedical Food Processing Others Breakup by Region: North America United States Canada Asia-Pacific China Japan India South Korea Australia Indonesia Others Europe Germany France United Kingdom Italy Spain Russia Others Latin America Brazil Mexico Others Middle East and Africa For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/ggxqxt 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: Laura Wood Senior Manager [email protected] SOURCE Research and Markets BEIJING, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- "For this surgery, we have prepared for more than half a year," Xiao Yuehai told the Global Times when talking about the first laparoscopic surgery carried out in Solomon Islands. Xiao is an urologist from the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University (AHGMU) and a member of the second group of Chinese medical workers dispatched to the Solomon Islands. "We reused the laparoscope machines and organized a new one. This helped us save at least 4 million yuan ($548,320)," Xiao said proudly. The first laparoscopic surgery was conducted by Solomon Islands doctors under the guidance of Chinese medical staff. As of August 22, two such surgeries had been conducted. "In the past, local doctors had to make an opening of 15-20 centimeters on the patient's torso when they conducted the surgery. The patient would lose a large amount of blood and have to be hospitalized for about one week before leaving the hospital. But now, they can leave the hospital two days after the surgery is completed," Xiao said. Meaningful exchanges This is not just happening in the Solomon Islands, but the whole South Pacific Islands region. According to a fact sheet on cooperation between China and Pacific Island Countries (PICs) the Chinese Foreign Ministry released in May 2022, China has sent a total of 600 medical workers to PICs, who have treated 260,000 local patients, provided free medical services on over 100 occasions, and donated a significant amount of both medical machines and medicines. They have helped improve local residents' health and local medical service capacity. In 2014, the China-assisted Navua Hospital opened to the public in Fiji, bringing benefits to over 30,000 local residents, according to the sheet. In January 2016, the China-Australia-PNG Malaria Prevention Program was officially launched in Papua New Guinea (PNG), effectively enhancing the ability of malaria prevention and treatment. In October 2017, the Shenzhen municipal government helped launch malaria elimination program in the Kirivina Islands of PNG, reducing the local community's vulnerability to malaria, the sheet noted. After the start of COVID-19, the two sides have been helping each other combat the disease. China has held more than 10 bilateral or multilateral public health expert meetings via video link with PICs, which have established diplomatic relations with China, to share experience covering disease prevention, control, treatment and diagnosis. China has actively provided vaccines, supplies and financial assistance to PICs, helping the latter build quarantine cubicles and other facilities. As of May 2022, China had provided PICs with 590,000 doses of vaccines and over 100 tons of supplies, according to the sheet. Restricted by their geographic location, medical standards across Pacific Islands Countries and the connectivity between the countries remains low, meaning local residents have difficulty in accessing treatment when faced with serious health issues. China's medical support not only brings medicines and equipment to the region, but also advanced technologies, which have helped improve the development of local medical care and bolster the development of the friendship between China and the entire region. The Chinese medical team also helps the Solomon Islands to organize an emergency medical team for the upcoming 2023 Pacific Games that is scheduled to be held in Honiara, Solomon Islands, between November 19 and December 2. Chinese doctors' selfless contribution has won respect and recognition of local governments and residents. In July, as Vanuatu celebrated the 43rd anniversary of its independence, Vanuatu President Nikenike Vurobaravu awarded nine members of the first Chinese medical team with state medals in recognition of their significant contribution to improving local medical standards and consolidating the China-Vanuatu cooperation in medical treatment and public health. Teaching a man to fish Apart from providing medical services directly to local residents, Chinese medical teams also train local medical staff "how to fish" through lectures, clinical practice and training sessions, which serve to enhance local medical capacity. According to the Xinhua News Agency, from 2002 to July 2023, Chinese medical teams to Papua New Guinea held more than 11,000 training courses and held at least 70 lectures to local medical workers. They also provided training for the use of 240 technologies that had never been available in the country. Medical teams in the Solomon Islands are delivering similar outcomes, despite only being active in the country for two years. On August 14, AHGMU and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services of the Solomon Islands signed an MOU on medical cooperation. The two sides agreed on support and assistance in upgrading tertiary hospital care at the National Referral Hospital (NRH) in the Solomon Islands as the center of teaching, treatment of complicated cases and major referral center. According to the MOU, the AHGMU will select senior doctors to be part of the China Medical Team in Solomon Islands, providing medical services to local communities. The Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Center and Minimally Invasive Urological Surgery Center will be established at NRH in the near future, in which both sides will work closely on medical equipment and instruments donated to NRH. Doctors, nurses, and administrative personnel will have opportunities to receive training and postgraduate education at AHGMU and related medical technology supports will be provided to the centers to assist NRH medical staff master specialized skills. Growth in TCM The arrival of Chinese medical teams also generated new awareness over traditional Chinese medicine in the South Pacific region. "Thank you, China Medical Team, especially Doctor Jack Lei for giving much of your time with your experiences and techniques in delivering acupuncture treatment to me as one of your patients," commented a local resident on the Facebook page of the Chinese medical team. In less than half a year, Lei, an expert in traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture from the medical team, has changed the local people's attitude toward acupuncture from "never heard of" to "pure magic." Now the Chinese medial team is also teaching acupuncture and other TCM knowledge to local doctors and nurses and the team also hopes to send some local doctors to China to study acupuncture in the future. Chinese naval hospital ship Peace Ark also visited the Solomon Islands in August during its "Harmonious Mission 2023." During its visit to the Solomon Islands, Peace Ark provided free medical service to local people and overseas Chinese. It also dispatched multiple medical teams to deliver medical care, critical disease consultation and academic exchange. In addition to the TCM consultation room's seven beds, some patients were seen with "cups" on their backs, or needles inserted in various acupuncture points on their legs, while other received moxibustion treatment on their feet. A local woman told the Global Times that she came to the hospital ship for treatment because she heard that Chinese medicine is famous and effective for foot pain. "I feel very good. Chinese doctors are very good!" she said. SOURCE Global Times BEIJING, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- "I like watching the Chinese reality show Running Man, I like Chinese actress Dilraba and Chinese hot-pot" Joanne Cilia Vosalevu, a 23-year-old Fijian woman told the Global Times at the Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, where she started her year-long Chinese language study journey on August 16. As a student from the University of the South Pacific (USP) majoring in IT and business management, Joanne studied Chinese for about three years before coming to China. "My mom likes China very much and she loves Jackie Chan," Joanne said, noting that her love for Chinese culture was influenced by her mother, especially after she encountered Chinese reality shows and dramas such as Running Man and Go Fighting! Joanne's Chinese language learning journey started in the Lautoka camp of the Confucius Institute at the USP. "For two hours a week and I kept learning for three years," Joanne told the Global Times. Joanne's talent in mastering various forms of Chinese art was greatly showcased at the Confucius Institute back home, with outstanding performances in Chinese songs, Chinese traditional instrument hulusi flute playing and Chinese painting. As a result, she won the 20th Chinese Bridge Chinese Preliminary Competition in the Fiji region in 2021 and also received an International Chinese Language Teachers Scholarship (CLEC) and the opportunity to study in China for a year. The CLEC is a non-profit professional educational institution for international Chinese language education, affiliated with the Chinese Ministry of Education. It is committed to providing quality services for people from all over the world to learn Chinese and understand China. It also intends to build a platform for friendly collaboration in language education and cross-cultural learning. Joanne is the second student at the USP Confucius Institute to receive this honor since the establishment of the scholarship. Just like her favorite Chinese song "Invisible Wings," Chinese has become Jenny's wings, helping her fly higher and further. Providing an opportunity The establishment of the Confucius Institute at the USP in 2012 provided an opportunity for people from South Pacific island countries like Joanne, who love China and want to learn Chinese, to learn the language in their own countries. In mid-August, when Global Times reporters visited the USP Confucius Institute in Suva, Fiji, the reporters were firstly greeted by a Confucius statue erected in front of the institute's office building. Li Yini, director of the institute, welcomed the reporters in traditional Fijian attire and a flower behind her right ear. "It is a local custom for married women to wear flowers behind their right ear, while unmarried women wear them behind their left ear," Li explained. Local female staff at the institute said they love Chinese cheongsams. As Li said, the original intention of the establishment of the Confucius Institute was to facilitate understanding between South Pacific island countries and China. Li's sense of style and local women's love for Chinese cheongsams demonstrated that cultural exchanges between China and countries in the South Pacific region have already become integrated into people's daily lives. The institute provides Chinese courses not only to students at the USP, but also to students at other universities as well as middle and elementary schools, officials and workers from local governmental departments and institutes, and other local residents who are interested in the Chinese language and Chinese culture. "We provide three different levels of courses to people with various Chinese language proficiencies," Li said. She noted that the institute also provides cultural courses, including in the art of paper cutting, tea art and Chinese painting. These courses allow local students to get a taste of the uniqueness of Chinese culture and build a communication bridge between people on both sides. The USP is one of only two regional universities in the world and is a leading higher education institution in the South Pacific region. It has branch campuses in 12 regional countries. Currently, the Confucius Institute at the USP has established Confucius classrooms in Fiji's Lautoka, Vanuatu and the Cook Islands, forming a "three countries, four locations" educational framework. With the promotion of online Chinese credit courses, Chinese language teaching now covers 12 countries in the South Pacific region. Over the last decade, the institute has offered more than 700 international Chinese language courses, taught for more than 20,000 hours and trained at least 10,000 students, according to Li. The Confucius Institute's commitment to cultivating Chinese language talents in Fiji has also won recognition from the government. Fiji's Minister for Education, Heritage and Arts Rosy Akbar emphasized that China's support and cooperation will help improve Fiji's domestic education system and also contribute to the cultivation of more Chinese language talents to meet future demands for Chinese education, during her visit to the Confucius Institute on August 30. She also expressed hope that the Confucius Institute at the USP will provide higher quality language courses for Fijian nationals, especially young people, and use language and culture as a medium to promote long-term friendly cooperation and development between the two countries in various aspects. Eyeing the future The Chinese language is also facilitating the building of a friendship bridge between China and other regional island countries. "Let us gently row the oars, the boat pushes waves ashore" On August 22, in Chung Wah School, Honiara, Solomon Islands, a group of primary school students performed a well-known children's song in Chinese celebrating friendship to the guests. The children, dressed in sailor-style uniforms, had Chinese and Solomon Islands national flags painted on their faces, while many of their schoolmates waved the small flags along to the rhythm of the performance. Chung Wah means "China." The school was founded after World War II by the Chinese community in Solomon Islands. In September 2019, after China and Solomon Islands officially established diplomatic ties, the school raised Solomon Islands' first Chinese national flag. As a top school in Honiara, the capital of the island nation, the school has hundreds of students. Even though most of them are not ethnically Chinese, they still learn the Chinese language as part of the school's long-standing tradition. Eunice Tahuniara, the head of the Chung Wah School, believes it is important for her students to be exposed to diverse cultures, especially as ties between China and Solomon Islands have deepened significantly in recent years. "It is a positive development to see more Chinese people coming here," Tahuniara told the Global Times. "We are building our friendship and we're strengthening our relationship. It's not just limited to social interactions; we're also expanding into areas like education and various other aspects." Even though the COVID-19 pandemic caused Chinese language classes to be suspended for two years, the school is expected to continue its proud tradition. Hannah Liu, a Chinese language teacher, arrived at the school earlier this year all the way from Sweden to Honiara and resumed lessons. More teachers dispatched from China are also expected to join Liu later this year. "Our students here may, in the future, have the opportunity to engage with Chinese institutions for exchanges or even for teachers to pursue further studies. This way, the friendship can continue to develop and extend beyond our current boundaries," she noted. In early July, at the opening ceremony of Solomon Islands' Embassy in Beijing, some young Solomon Islanders currently studying at various Chinese universities, dressed in the island nation's traditional attire, joyfully performed traditional dances representing the country's different islands. Thanks to the support of the Chinese government, many students from Solomon Islands have been able to receive higher education in China in recent years. They are the best example of the people-to-people exchanges taking place between the two countries. "I meet many helpful people here and I want to study very hard in China," Roxbe Gideon, a student from Solomon Islands in Northwestern Polytechnical University in Northwest China's Shaanxi Province, told the Global Times at the event. Gideon, majoring in civil engineering, said that he would like to follow in his father's footsteps and become an engineer. Nisi Alexandrick, Gideon's schoolmate, majoring in aeronautics, hopes to use the knowledge he gathers in China to help improve aeronautics or aircraft systems in his home country, in order to improve air transportation. Just like Gideon and Alexandrick, more and more young islanders are boarding the BRI fast train. This month, another group of outstanding young people from Solomon Islands will head to China to embark on their university journeys. At a farewell ceremony on September 6, Chinese Ambassador to Solomon Islands Li Ming warmly congratulated the students, encouraging them to experience China's modernization and high-quality development achievements firsthand, delve into the splendidness of Chinese culture, and return to their homeland after completing their studies to contribute their wisdom and strength to the economic and social development of Solomon Islands and the friendly relations between China and Solomon Islands. Promoting local development At a local store in Fiji, a shop assistant took the initiative to reveal to Global Times reporters in Chinese, "These products are eligible for tax refunds at the airport." He said that there are now more and more Chinese tourists in the local area in order to provide better service. Aboard the flight from Nandi to Honiara, a flight attendant asked a Global Times reporter how to say beef and chicken in Chinese. He said he was learning Chinese as the number of Chinese tourists using the airline's services has grown. With the increasing number of Chinese tourists to the South Pacific region, some local companies also have a growing demand for Chinese language talents. "In May this year, we went to Shangri-La Hotel in Fiji to provide 40 hours of training for hotel staff. Now there are more and more Chinese guests and they have practical needs. Many staffers at the hotel also request to come to our classes to learn Chinese," Li Yini told the Global Times. "Learning Chinese has become a trend in Fiji. The number of people enrolling in our social classes is increasing, sometimes exceeding our maximum capacity, and the classrooms are not enough," Li said. The ultimate aim of learning Chinese is to foster better cooperation and promote local development. China has been helping Fiji to construct buildings, roads, and supermarkets. These are very good forms of cooperation that have helped greatly in Fiji's development, Joanne told the Global Times. She noted that Fiji should learn more from China in areas such as technology and culture to promote local development. SOURCE Global Times Leading Insurances Services Firm Prepares for Continued Expansion MIAMI, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- GlobalPro announced today the appointment of Matthew Sengsourinh, as President of the Florida office, effective September 18, 2023. Formerly serving as the Senior Vice President, this promotion will serve as part of the company's plans for continued growth. Sengsourinh is an experienced business leader who has worked in senior roles across several industries, including finance and insurance. Since 2012, Odess has led GlobalPro through a strong growth phase, along with the expansion of services, new verticals and the development of GlobalPro new growth strategy. To date, GlobalPro has recovered over $1 billion globally for their clients and assisted with the placement of thousands of policies. Through an innovative approach to managing risk to recovery, Odess developed GlobalPro into an industry leading insurance services firm. Sengsourinh will report to Odess. "I am excited for this next chapter and the energy Matt brings to the GlobalPro family," Odess said. "His drive, creativity, conviction and belief in the process make him an ideal leader to build upon our success. The combination of attention to targeted goals and deep focus while maintaining our core values is paramount to preserving our space as an industry leader. I am confident in Matt's ability to lead the team in both meeting and exceeding these standards." Most recently, Sengsourinh was Senior Vice President., focusing most of his efforts on the Northeast Region. Prior to being named to that role, he served as Vice President and Partner at Neuberger Berman and Rue One Investments. His business development experience is highlighted by building and growing sales regions in the U.S. and raising over $700 million in capital. "I am honored to take the reins with this new position," Sengsouirnh said. "I am steadfast in my commitment to the continued success and evolution of the company, and look forward to leading the team towards even greater achievements." Odess will remain involved in GlobalPro by continuing to support the transition while assuming his new position as CEO of GlobalPro Holdings, LLC, where he will continue the brand expansion by pursuing opportunities in technology and real estate. About GlobalPro GlobalPro has placed insurance for hundreds of policyholders and recovered over $1 Billion in claims for our clients. Our unwavering commitment to the policyholder is paramount to our company culture. Our unparalleled, multidisciplinary team leverages the most advanced technology and consistently provides incredible customer service and above all else, exceptional results. Media Contact: Matt Brooks [email protected] SOURCE GlobalPro GOTTINGEN, Germany, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On the morning of September 16, the first locally produced battery product was officially launched in Gottingen, a famous university town in central Germany. This is a milestone event for Gotion's first battery production and operation base in Europe after Gotion Germany Battery Gmbh was established in Germany last year. On the same day, Gotion also signed cooperation agreements with internationally renowned companies such as BASF, ABB, Ebusco, and Ficosa. "I'm very lucky, it's a very good moment in my life." Andreas, a worker at the Gottingen factory who just signed the first battery pack, shared his excitement with more than 200 colleagues. The official commissioning and operation of the battery pack production line demonstrate that Gotion has achieved localized production and supply in Europe. Gotion's batteries have officially embarked on the path of "Made in Germany". The Gottingen factory's production line is highly automated, with an overall automation level of nearly 70%, and close to 80% in the module assembly stage. Steven Cai, Gotion's CTO, also unveiled the company's strategic planning in Europe on the same day. As he introduced, the current production capacity plan for the Gottingen factory is 20GWh, which is expected to be completed in four phases. Once fully operational, it is estimated to generate an annual output value of EUR 2 billion. Peter Willemsen, COO of Gotion Global and managing director of the German entity, said that the spirit of cooperation between China and Europe is important in efforts to "make Europe green again". SOURCE Gotion High-tech NEW YORK, Sept. 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hardware Security Modules Market report has been added to Technavio's offering. With ISO 9001:2015 certification, Technavio has proudly partnered with more than 100 Fortune 500 companies for over 16 years. The potential growth difference for the hardware security modules market between 2021 and 2026 is USD 982.86 million. The rising use of Internet banking and digital payments drives the hardware security modules market. Consumers use smartphones to make online transactions at any time. Digital wallets are becoming the most popular mode of payment due to various features. The features include easy registration and login, robust merchant and consumer payment processing capability, and a user-friendly dashboard. Factors such as the growing need for faster checkouts at retail outlets, the high adoption of EMV cards, effective information management among retailers, and the increased focus on secure payments contribute to the growth of the global hardware security market. Hence, such factors drive the growth of the hardware security modules market during the forecast period. Get deeper insights into the market size, current market scenario, future growth opportunities, major growth driving factors, the latest trends, and much more. Buy the full report here Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Hardware Security Modules Market Market Challenge - The high preliminary acquisition cost challenges the growth of the hardware security modules market. Generally, hardware security modules developed with older generations of expertise pose significant barriers to adoption. High prices for hardware security modules are led by features such as secure cryptographic processing, a tamper-proof environment for key protection and management, and certification requirements to meet compliance standards. In addition, features such as secure cryptographic processing, a tamper-proof environment for key protection and management, and certification requirements lead to high prices for hardware security modules. This is required as organizations need to meet the quality standards. As the cost factors of hardware security modules are significantly high, SMEs have insufficient IT budgets making such solutions difficult to procure and implement. Therefore, the costs associated with hardware security modules act as an impediment to deployment in budget-constrained enterprises. The challenges the growth of the hardware security modules market. Generally, hardware security modules developed with older generations of expertise pose significant barriers to adoption. High prices for hardware security modules are led by features such as secure cryptographic processing, a tamper-proof environment for key protection and management, and certification requirements to meet compliance standards. In addition, features such as secure cryptographic processing, a tamper-proof environment for key protection and management, and certification requirements lead to high prices for hardware security modules. This is required as organizations need to meet the quality standards. As the cost factors of hardware security modules are significantly high, SMEs have insufficient IT budgets making such solutions difficult to procure and implement. Therefore, the costs associated with hardware security modules act as an impediment to deployment in budget-constrained enterprises. Learn about additional key drivers, trends, and challenges available with Technavio. Read the Free Sample PDF Report Now The hardware security modules market has been segmented by Deployment (on-premise and cloud) and Geography (North America, APAC, Europe, MEA, and South America). The market share growth by the on-premise segment will be significant during the forecast period. will be significant during the forecast period. 35% of the global market's growth will originate from North America during the forecast period. The US is the major contributing country to the regional market growth. Furthermore, the market growth in this region will be faster than the growth of the market in the European regions. View the Free Sample Report for insights into the contribution of all the segments and regional opportunities in the report. Key Companies in the Hardware Security Modules Market: Atos SE, Futurex, Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co., International Business Machines Corp., Infineon Technologies AG, Microchip Technology Inc., STMicroelectronics NV., Thales Group, Utimaco IS GmbH, Yubico AB Related Reports: The casing cementation hardware market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.25% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 2,277.34 million. The optical network hardware market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7.43% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 6,074.53 million. Hardware Security Modules Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2021 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2022-2026 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 11.77% Market growth 2022-2026 USD 982.86 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 11.11 Regional analysis North America, APAC, Europe, MEA, and South America Performing market contribution North America at 35% Key countries US, China, UK, Germany, and Japan Competitive landscape Leading Vendors, Market Positioning of Vendors, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled Atos SE, Futurex, Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co., International Business Machines Corp., Infineon Technologies AG, Microchip Technology Inc., STMicroelectronics NV., Thales Group, Utimaco IS GmbH, and Yubico AB Market dynamics Parent market analysis, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, Market condition analysis for forecast period. Customization purview If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized. ToC: Executive Summary Market Landscape Market Sizing Historic Market Sizes Five Forces Analysis Market Segmentation by Deployment Market Segmentation by Geography Customer Landscape Geographic Landscape Drivers, Challenges, & Trends Company Landscape Company Analysis Appendix About Technavio 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. Contacts 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 BOCA RATON, Fla., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Healthcare Funding Partners (HFP), a leading player in the Health Insurance Marketplace financing sector, is pleased to announce the successful completion of an upsize to an existing financing with Post Road Group, securing a substantial credit facility of $100 million, with the option to expand to $200 million through an accordion feature. "HFP's mission has always been to empower businesses within the Health Insurance Marketplace, and this credit facility with Post Road Group reinforces our commitment to that mission," said Chad Sokoloff, Managing Partner at Healthcare Funding Partners. "We are excited about the opportunities this partnership unlocks for us and our insurance agency partners." HFP, a specialty finance investment firm specializing in the Health Insurance Marketplace, offers a comprehensive range of financial services. This includes financing and acquisition of assets, such as books of business, in both the under-65 space, encompassing Affordable Care Act (ACA), Short Term Medical, Limited Medical, and Ancillaries, as well as the over-65 market, which includes Medicare Supplement, Advantage, Long-Term Care, and more. "Post Road is very excited to continue our financing relationship with Healthcare Funding Partners. This expanded credit facility will help them continue to grow their position as a market leader in the Health Insurance Marketplace. We have had a great experience working with the team at HFP and look forward to supporting the further growth and expansion of their business," stated Michael Grosso, a Director at Post Road Group. HFP's multifaceted approach to finance includes advancing commissions, purchasing future commissions (HEAPs), acquiring book of business, making equity investments, and delivering legal, accounting, and HR-related services to insurance agency partners. The company's unwavering focus is on the call center market and entities supporting this ecosystem, including call center-operated insurance agencies, lead-generating marketing companies, and technology firms enhancing call center efficiency. With a management team and advisors boasting a combined experience of 100 years in call center operations, HFP is uniquely positioned to provide comprehensive support to businesses operating within the Health Insurance Marketplace. HFP is not just a financial partner; it is Healthcare + Partners, dedicated to empowering businesses to reach new heights. Post Road Group is an alternative investment advisory firm headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut. Post Road specializes in private credit and private equity investments across various sectors, including digital infrastructure, telecommunications, media, business services, real estate, and specialty finance. Post Road Group's specialty finance investment strategy is grounded in discipline, emphasizing opportunities that offer attractive risk-adjusted returns and robust downside protection for investors. Its strategic partnership with HFP underscores its confidence in the company's potential and the growth prospects of the Health Insurance Marketplace. This collaboration between Healthcare Funding Partners and Post Road Group marks a significant milestone in the expansion and development of HFP's financial capabilities. With this enhanced credit facility, HFP is well-positioned to drive innovation, support its insurance agency partners, and continue making a meaningful impact in the Health Insurance Marketplace. For media inquiries, please contact: Michael S. Hilf ([email protected]) or Chad Sokoloff ([email protected]) About Healthcare Funding Partners (HFP) Healthcare Funding Partners (HFP) is a specialized investment firm exclusively focused on the Health Insurance Marketplace. With a diverse range of financial services, HFP serves as a strategic partner to businesses operating in the call center market and related sectors. With an unmatched wealth of experience, HFP is dedicated to empowering its partners to thrive in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. www.healthcarefundingpartners.com About Post Road Group Post Road Group is an alternative investment advisory firm with approximately $1.3 billion of assets under management, located in Stamford, CT. Post Road originates and executes investments across four distinct but complementary strategies: Corporate, Real Estate Credit, Real Estate Equity and Specialty Finance. Since its founding in 2015, the firm has invested and committed over $2.5 billion of capital. To learn more, visit www.postroadgroup.com. SOURCE Healthcare Funding Partners WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Healthsperien LLC, a Washington, DC-based health care consulting firm focused on strategic, regulatory, legislative, and implementation issues, is proud to announce that Tom Koutsoumpas, Founder and President, has been selected for a Top Innovator award by Modern Healthcare. This leading industry publication released the profiles of the 25 national honorees in their latest issue, available online at ModernHealthcare.com/Top-Innovators. The Top Innovators program honors 25 leaders and organizations who are instituting innovation and leading transformative programs that achieve measurable results in improving care and contributing to clinical and financial goals. "This underscores the need for a relentless pursuit of excellence and pushing boundaries in our field" Tom Koutsoumpas Post this "Innovation can take many forms, as evidenced by our honorees--both individuals and organizations--in this year's class of Top Innovators," said Mary Ellen Podmolik, Editor-in-Chief of Modern Healthcare. "Whether they are making backroom functions more efficient, establishing partnerships across the industry, or developing tools to broaden consumers' access to care, these winners are producing results and forging a path that others should follow." This award recognizes Tom's efforts in driving innovation through several initiatives at the National Partnership for Healthcare and Hospice Innovation (NPHI), where he serves as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). NPHI is a unique not-for-profit organization that includes members of over 100 hospice/advanced illness care providers nationwide. NPHI members care for over 150,000 patients and families across America every day and annually provide over 150 million dollars in charity care. Tom also serves as Chairman of the Board for Capital Caring Health (CCH), one of the oldest and largest not-for-profit advanced illness care, primary care at home, and palliative and hospice care providers in the nation - now a member of Chapters Health System, the largest non-profit hospice provider in the U.S. The Wall Street Journal recently interviewed him, Tom Koutsoumpas Wants to Ease the Ordeal of Dying, about his leadership in not-for-profit hospice and palliative care work in the U.S. "It is a tremendous honor to be acknowledged as one of this year's Top Innovators by Modern Healthcare," stated Tom Koutsoumpas, Founder and President of Healthsperien. "As a fervent advocate for health care innovation and having dedicated my entire career to enhancing person-centered outcomes and the overall healthcare landscape, this recognition underscores the significance of our relentless pursuit of excellence and pushing the boundaries in our field." Tom has been an integral force in health care innovation throughout his career and has emerged as a prominent leader on issues related to Medicare, elder care, advanced illness, and hospice care with a career that spans several decades, starting with various roles at the U.S. Senate from advising on federal affairs at the Indiana Governor's Office to leading the development of a substantial federal and state presence for one of the nation's largest health care companies. He co-founded and currently co-chairs the Coalition to Transform Advanced Care (C-TAC), an organization dedicated to improving the lives of people impacted by serious illnesses by elevating their issues, advising decision makers, and leading a coalition of member organizations to advocate for policies that ensure greater access, equity, and enhanced quality of life. He also co-authored the book A Roadmap to Success: Transforming Advanced Illness Care in America. One of his newest innovative endeavors is co-founding Act Now for Mental Health, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to expanding access to mental health services and supports while fighting the stigma associated with mental health challenges for young adults (ages 17-32). To learn more about Tom Koutsoumpas and his work or Healthsperien's work supporting organizations like NPHI, please contact: Debbie McCarron Communications Lead, Healthsperien [email protected] For information or questions about the Top Innovators program, please contact: Bailey Wenkel Content Coordinator [email protected] About Modern Healthcare Modern Healthcare is the most trusted business news and information brand in the healthcare industry. Modern Healthcare empowers healthcare leaders and influencers to make timely and informed business decisions. To learn more or subscribe, go to www.modernhealthcare.com/subscriptions About Healthsperien Healthsperien, LLC is a nationally recognized Washington, DC-based policy and health care consulting firm focused on strategic, regulatory, legislative, and implementation issues. We are focused on the acceleration of responsible and sustainable health care system innovation and transformation to improve health outcomes for all, especially those most at-risk. To learn more, visit https://healthsperien.com/. SOURCE Healthsperien Hyundai Motor Group to display art cars in key landmarks in New York City including Genesis House New York to support Busan's bid for the 2030 World Expo including Genesis House New York to support bid for the 2030 World Expo The art cars to go on a captivating journey through the bustling streets of New York , during the UN General Assembly High-level Week 2023 , during the UN General Assembly High-level Week 2023 The art cars, including Hyundai Motor's IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 all-electric models and Genesis luxury brand's Electrified G80 sedan, feature graffiti designs inspired by Busan's vibrant spirit SEOUL, South Korea and NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) today announced an upcoming exhibition and road tour of total 20 art cars in New York City to support the South Korean city of Busan's bid to host the 2030 World Expo. Hyundai Motor Group announced an upcoming exhibition and road tour of total 20 art cars in New York City to support the South Korean city of Busans bid to host the 2030 World Expo. Hyundai Motor Group announced an upcoming exhibition and road tour of total 20 art cars in New York City to support the South Korean city of Busans bid to host the 2030 World Expo. Hyundai Motor Group announced an upcoming exhibition and road tour of total 20 art cars in New York City to support the South Korean city of Busans bid to host the 2030 World Expo. The Group will display a fleet of art cars featuring Hyundai Motor's IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 all-electric models as well as Genesis luxury brand's Electrified G80 sedan. These models, wrapped in graffiti artwork created by renowned Korean artist 'JAY FLOW,' will showcase the vibrant spirit of Busan through colorful designs depicting the city's icons and the slogan 'BUSAN is Ready.' Coinciding with the highly anticipated UN General Assembly High-level Week 2023, the art car exhibition and road tour will run from September 1722. The Group plans to hold the art car exhibition at the Genesis House New York, located in the cultural and artistic hub of Manhattan's Meatpacking District, and key New York landmarks including Times Square. The art cars will also go on a captivating journey through the bustling streets of New York City, allowing visiting global leaders, tourists, and residents to witness the beauty of Busan's culture, progressive mindset, and city's readiness to host the 2030 World Expo. The Group is actively supporting and generating global support for Busan in its bid for the Expo. This includes deploying art cars in major cities worldwide, conducting bid support activities at international events and emphasizing Busan's commitment to a carbon-neutral expo with eco-friendly transportation for Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) delegations. Following the successful unveiling of art cars in Jakarta, Indonesia, during the ASEAN Summit and in New Delhi, India, during G20-related events last week, Busan's bid for the 2030 World Expo gained significant international attention. The artwork received global acclaim, further bolstering support for Busan's bid. As part of its efforts to garner global support for Busan's bid to host the 2030 World Expo, the Group also published over 80 pieces of content, including short-form videos and infographics for social media, promoting Busan as the ideal host city. In particular, two series of promotional videos created in collaboration with Busan citizens and foreigners in Korea, achieved over 100 million global views within three months of their release in June, significantly boosting international support for Busan's bid. About Hyundai Motor Group Hyundai Motor Group is a global enterprise that has created a value chain based on mobility, steel, and construction, as well as logistics, finance, IT, and service. With about 250,000 employees worldwide, the Group's mobility brands include Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis. Armed with creative thinking, cooperative communication and the will to take on any challenges, we strive to create a better future for all. More information about Hyundai Motor Group, please see: www.hyundaimotorgroup.com SOURCE Hyundai Motor Group ASTANA ,Kazakhstan, September 18. Kazakhstan and Hungary will take joint measures to increase mutual trade turnover, as well as to intensify bilateral cooperation mechanisms, Trend reports. This was stated at a meeting between President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and President of Hungary Katalin Nowak on the sidelines of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly. As Tokayev said during the meeting, a strategic partnership based on strong historical and cultural ties has been established between the fraternal peoples of the two countries. The President of Kazakhstan highly appreciated the active position and huge contribution of Hungary to strengthening Turkic cooperation. The parties also discussed issues of trade, economic, investment, cultural and humanitarian cooperation. The presidents exchanged views on international issues, including improving the work of the Institute of many factors for ensuring global stability and development. In addition, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev invited Katalina Novak to visit Kazakhstan. CHICAGO, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Industrial Cybersecurity Market size was valued at USD 16.3 billion in 2022 and was expected to reach USD 24.4 billion by 2028; it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.7% from 2023 to 2028 according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The major factors driving the growth of industrial cybersecurity market are increasing focus on integrating into industrial control systems. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=37646764 Browse in-depth TOC on "Industrial Cybersecurity Market" 100 Tables 70 Figures 200 Pages Industrial Cybersecurity Market Report Scope: Report Coverage Details Market Revenue in 2022 $ 16.3 billion Estimated Value by 2028 $ 24.4 billion Growth Rate Poised to grow at a CAGR of 7.7% Market Size Available for 20192028 Forecast Period 20222028 Forecast Units Value (USD Million) and Volume (Thousand Units) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered By Security Type, Offering, End-user, Deployment Type and Region Geographies Covered Asia Pacific, Europe, North America and Rest of World Key Market Challenge Lack of awareness about best practices and criticality of cybersecurity in industrial control systems Key Market Opportunities Rising importance of cloud-based industrial cybersecurity services Key Market Drivers Rising government and private investments to create safe and secure industrial Wireless Security is projected to have largest market size during forecast period. The industrial cybersecurity market for wireless security is expected to have the largest market size during the forecast period. Wireless intrusion prevention systems (WIPS) or wireless intrusion detection systems (WIDS) are commonly used to comply with wireless security policies. Factors such as increased use of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology and other wireless communication technologies, easy availability and low-cost accessibility of wireless 4G mobile devices, rise in small office home office (SOHO) trend, and intensified need for SaaS-based wireless security solutions stimulate the growth of the market for wireless security. Software Solutions and services will have the highest growth in coming years. Professional services and managed services are covered under the industrial cybersecurity market for services. In professional services, risk management is the most prominent service. In industrial organizations, industrial control systems are designed not only to monitor and control industrial processes but also to manage network and system devices. These systems are now more exposed to cyber threats due to the increased connectivity with third-party service providers, a growing number of network-enabled devices, and enhanced sophistication of security attacks. As a result, the demand for risk management services is growing. Transportation Systems is expected to have highest CAGR during the forecast period. The industrial cybersecurity industry for the transportation system industry is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. To improve its performance, the transportation sector has started using advanced technologies, and the systems are being shifted from standalone to newer interconnected systems. However, interconnectivity leads to cyber risks owing to the use of leased lines of communication infrastructure. The dependence of transportation modes, such as highways, aviation, seaports, and subways, on industrial control systems is leading to the exposure of transportation control systems to cyberattacks. Governments worldwide are taking various measures to tackle cyberattacks. For example, the National Cybersecurity Division (NCSD) of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) (US) is working with the government and is collaborating with the private sector to secure the industrial environment from cyber threats. Inquiry Before Buying: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Enquiry_Before_BuyingNew.asp?id=37646764 North America is expected to have the second largest market size during the forecast period. North America is an early adopter of innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence and IoT and is home to a large number of industrial cybersecurity solution providers such as CISCO, IBM, and Rockwell Automation, thereby contributing to the growth of the market in the region. Moreover, the high internet penetration and quick implementation of IoT-enabled devices across major industries such as oil & gas, power generation, and chemicals are the key factors for the surging demand for cybersecurity solutions in the region. Specific budget allocations by the government for industrial cybersecurity projects and mandatory policies to ensure the cybersecurity of industrial control networks are expected to generate lucrative opportunities for the providers of industrial cybersecurity solutions in North America. Key Market Players The Industrial cybersecurity companies was dominated by IBM Corporation (US), Honeywell International (US), ABB (Zurich), Cisco Systems (US), Schneider Electric (France), McAfee Corporation (US), Siemens (Germany), Dell Technologies (US), Norton LifeLock (US), Rockwell Automation (US), Kaspersky Lab (Russia), Fortinet (US), Palo Alto Networks (US), Proofpoint (US), Trend Micro (Japan), Splunk designs (US), Broadcom (US), Microsoft (US), Forescout Technologies (US), OPSWAT (US), Dragos Inc (US), CyberArk (US), Argus (Israel), Cylus (Israel), Upstream Security (Israel). Get 10% Free Customization on this Report: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestCustomizationNew.asp?id=37646764 Browse Adjacent Market: Semiconductor and Electronics Market Research Reports &Consulting Related Reports: Industrial Communication Market by Components (Switches, Gateways, Power Supply Devices, Router & WAP, Communication Interface & Protocol Converters, Controllers), Software, Services, Communication Protocol, Vertical and Region - Global Forecast to 2028 Industry 4.0 Market Size, Share & Industry Growth Analysis Report by Technology (Industrial Robots, Blockchain, Industrial Sensors, Industrial 3D Printing, Machine Vision, HMI, AI in Manufacturing, Digital Twin, AGV's, Machine Condition Monitoring) and Geography - Global Growth Driver and Industry Forecast to 2026 Industrial IoT Market Size, Share & Industry Growth Analysis Report by Device & Technology, Connectivity Type, Software, Vertical (Manufacturing, Energy, Oil & Gas, Healthcare, Retail, Transportation, Metals & Mining, Agriculture), and Geography - Global Growth Driver and Industry Forecast to 2026 Threat Detection Systems Market by Detection Type (Explosive, Radiological & Nuclear, Chemical & Biological, Narcotics, Intrusion), Product (Dosimeter, Laser, Radar, Video Surveillance, Biometric), Application, and Geography - Global Forecast to 2022 Cellular IoT Market Size, Share & Industry Growth Analysis Report by Component (Hardware, Software, and Services), Technology (2G, 3G, 4G, LTE-M, NB-LTE-M, NB-IoT, and 5G), Application, Vertical and Geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America & MEA) - Global Growth Driver and Industry Forecast to 2027 About MarketsandMarkets MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. 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Contact: Mr. Aashish Mehra MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: [email protected] Visit Our Web Site: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/industrial-cybersecurity-market.asp Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/industrial-cybersecurity.asp Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/660509/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg SOURCE MarketsandMarkets InnSure Corps program to connect next generation of leaders to new ideas in order to solve climate change-related challenges BOSTON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- InnSure, the mission-driven nonprofit dedicated to harnessing the power of the insurance industry to combat climate change, announced today the launch of InnSure Corps, a cross-disciplinary network of experts, innovators and climate-impacted communities. Designed to support leadership development by connecting professionals across traditional boundaries, InnSure Corps is dedicated to innovating and deploying insurance core competencies as a primary tool to amplify and accelerate climate-friendly practices and facilitate more resilient communities. "Climate change is the defining professional development challenge for the next generation of insurance leaders, and understanding the power of insurance is a crucial professional development area for climate action leaders across all sectors," said Doug Shulkin, InnSure Corps Program Director. "Through this new initiative, our collective efforts will make the world safer, more secure, and more sustainable." InnSure Corps is launching founding Chapters in Boston, NYC, Chicago and Austin, TX. Participants will have access to member-only events, event discounts, networking, project opportunities, educational workshops, leadership initiatives, and a regular newsletter, among other benefits. Corporate Sponsors of InnSure Corps will also reap benefits from involvement with the program, particularly when it comes to attracting, developing, and maintaining talent and fostering the next generation of responsible leadership. As a mission-driven organization, InnSure is well-positioned to help companies develop and maintain a focus on sustainability and inclusivity. InnSure is actively seeking members, mentors, founding chapter presidents for new locations, and leaders to drive the program agenda by leading programming councils. Professionals interested in learning more about InnSure Corps and how to get involved should navigate to Join InnSure Corps or email [email protected]. About InnSure InnSure is a mission-driven nonprofit at the intersection of insurance innovation and climate change. By amplifying and accelerating climate-friendly insurance solutions and innovation, InnSure is catalyzing a quick, bold, and decisive insurance industry response to climate risk. The organization views its mission through a societal lens, looking for nature-positive ways that insurance can make the world better, create new markets, close the protection gap, increase community resilience, and accelerate the transition to carbon net zero. Through initiatives like the annual InnSure Climate Forum and the NYSERDA-supported Insurance Innovation for Climate-Technology Solutions program, the InnSure ecosystem is designed to foster collaboration between insurance professionals, policymakers, communities, entrepreneurs, risk capacity providers, investors, and stakeholders. For more on InnSure, visit https://innsure.org/. SOURCE InnSure BALTIMORE, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) Dean Mark T. Gladwin, MD, announced today that Shawn Kwatra, MD will become the next Chair of the UMSOM's Department of Dermatology and Chief of Service of Dermatology at the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), following an extensive national search. Dr. Kwatra, who will begin the new role in early 2024, will hold the Joseph W. Burnett Endowed Professor and Chair in Dermatology. Dr. Kwatra joins UMSOM from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, where he served as the Founding Director of the Johns Hopkins Itch Center. He is an internationally renowned dermatologist and clinical leader in skin of color research, as well as chronic inflammatory skin diseases, including atopic dermatitis, prurigo nodularis, and chronic pruritus of unknown origin. He also has expertise in managing cutaneous adverse events associated with immunotherapy. "We are delighted to have recruited such an exceptional and highly-accomplished international leader in Dermatology to be our new Department Chair," said Dean Gladwin, who is also Vice President for Medical Affairs, University of Maryland, Baltimore, and the John Z. and Akiko K. Bowers Distinguished Professor. "I want to thank Dr. Jason Rose for his outstanding service as Interim Dean. I am confident that Dr. Kwatra has the leadership skills and vision to lead the Department and UMMC's Dermatology Clinical Service through expansion to a higher level of excellence. In his new position, Dr. Kwatra will provide visionary and strategic leadership for expanding the clinical practice through Faculty Physicians, Inc. (FPI), with the goal of expanding outpatient services in collaboration with UMMC and UMMS hospitals and physician practices. He will continue to enhance the department's research initiatives through recruiting new physician scientists and building collaborations with other programs and institutes within the UMSOM. "I am pleased to welcome such a well-regarded clinician, researcher and leader in the field of inflammatory skin diseases," said Bert W. O'Malley, MD, President and Chief Executive Officer of the University of Maryland Medical Center. "I'm particularly enthusiastic about Dr. Kwatra's commitment to discovery and innovation around unmet health care needs. I look forward to working with him in the years ahead to further strengthen our dermatology program to serve more people with complex skin conditions from across the state and the region." Zaineb H. Makhzoumi, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor, Section Head of Dermatologic Surgery and Oncology, and Director of Clinical Services in the Department of Dermatology added: "I am thrilled to have Dr. Kwatra join our department and lead us as our next Chair." "Having known Dr. Kwatra both personally and professionally for nearly a decade I can confidently say that he possesses both the vision and knowledge to take our department to an even higher level of clinical excellence and recognition both locally and nationally. He has established himself as a leader and visionary in our field and I look forward to expanding our department even further under his guidance. I also want to thank Dr. Jason Rose for his outstanding leadership and dedication to our department over the last year while serving as interim chair." Dr. Kwatra will continue to improve on the educational experience for UMMC's Dermatology residents and UMSOM medical students, and will strive for diversity, equity and inclusion at all levels of the Department, including faculty, staff and trainees. Dr. Kwatra is an NIH funded investigator whose research focuses on precision medicine-based techniques to uncover new patient endotypes, designing and leading Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical trials, and studying racial disparities in the pathogenesis of inflammatory skin diseases. Dr. Kwatra runs both a basic science laboratory and clinical trials unit and has published over 200 peer-reviewed publications in high impact journals such as the New England Journal of Medicine, Nature Medicine, JAMA Dermatology, the Journal of American Academy of Dermatology, and the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. His research is supported by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, Dermatology Foundation, Skin of Color Society, and Society for Investigative Dermatology. "It is an honor to be the next Chair of Dermatology at such a prestigious medical school," said Kwatra. "I am excited to work alongside Dean Gladwin, a visionary and dynamic leader to build the Department of Dermatology's clinical footprint throughout the state of Maryland, enhance educational programs, and develop a thriving research enterprise." Dr. Kwatra has served on the Board of Directors of the Skin of Color Society, and currently serves as the National Secretary/Treasurer. He is a member of the National Eczema Association's Scientific and Medical Advisory Council. He was also inducted into the Johns Hopkins Distinguished Teaching Society for his bedside teaching and mentorship of medical students, residents, and fellows. He earned his undergraduate degree from Duke University and his medical degree from Wake Forest University School of Medicine. He completed a residency in dermatology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. About the University of Maryland School of Medicine Now in its third century, the University of Maryland School of Medicine was chartered in 1807 as the first public medical school in the United States. It continues today as one of the fastest growing, top-tier biomedical research enterprises in the world -- with 46 academic departments, centers, institutes, and programs, and a faculty of more than 3,000 physicians, scientists, and allied health professionals, including members of the National Academy of Medicine and the National Academy of Sciences, and a distinguished two-time winner of the Albert E. Lasker Award in Medical Research. With an operating budget of over $1.3 billion, the School of Medicine works closely in partnership with the University of Maryland Medical Center and Medical System to provide research-intensive, academic, and clinically based care for nearly 2 million patients annually. The School of Medicine has nearly $600 million in extramural funding, with most of its academic departments highly ranked among all medical schools in the nation in research funding. As one of the seven professional schools that make up the University of Maryland, Baltimore campus, the School of Medicine has a total population of nearly 9,000 faculty and staff, including 2,500 students, trainees, residents, and fellows. The combined School of Medicine and Medical System ("University of Maryland Medicine") has an annual budget of over $6 billion and an economic impact of nearly $20 billion on the state and local community. The School of Medicine, which ranks as the 8th highestamong public medical schools in research productivity (according to the Association of American Medical Colleges profile) is an innovator in translational medicine, with 606 active patents and 52 start-up companies. In the latest U.S. News & World Report ranking of the Best Medical Schools, published in 2021, the UM School of Medicine is ranked #9 among the 92 public medical schools in the U.S., and in the top 15 percent (#27) of all 192 public and private U.S. medical schools. The School of Medicine works locally, nationally, and globally, with research and treatment facilities in 36 countries around the world. Visit medschool.umaryland.edu Issued on behalf of Newswise, online resource for knowledge-based news at www.newswise.com SOURCE University of Maryland School of Medicine Oklahoma State Bank, a community bank serving customers across central Oklahoma, announces an organization wide rebrand to Prism Bank OKLAHOMA CITY, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Oklahoma State Bank, a trusted financial institution serving the community for over a century, is proud to announce its transformation into Prism Bank . With this exciting rebrand, Prism Bank aims to illuminate the future of banking in Oklahoma - setting the stage for continued growth, innovation and impeccable service. Founded in Guthrie, Oklahoma 114 years ago, Prism Bank has been a cornerstone of the local community, providing reliable banking solutions to individuals and businesses alike. The organization now serves customers throughout Central Oklahoma with locations in Oklahoma City, Guthrie, Edmond, Norman, and Mulhall. "The decision to rebrand was driven by our commitment to serve our customers and to adapt to the evolving needs of our communities," said President and CEO David Hardy. "By updating our identity, we can better showcase our unique product and service offerings." Hardy noted the rebrand does not signify a change in ownership. Prism Bank remains a steadfastly independent financial institution, rooted in its commitment to stability, longevity and unmatched expertise. "We are motivated by a desire to continue serving our communities for another 114 years," Hardy emphasized. "The new Prism Bank brand positions us for continued growth and success, allowing us to adapt and evolve with the changing industry landscape while upholding our unwavering dedication to our customers." Prism recognized the need for differentiation in today's competitive financial landscape. The new name is representative of the full spectrum of services Prism Bank provides. Tailored offerings like private client services, healthcare banking, aviation finance, cannabis banking and services aimed at Prism's valued Hispanic community allow the organization to meet the diverse needs of its customers. The organization's rebrand strategy is rooted in relationship building. Prism Bank's new tagline - "for every facet" - illustrates that bank staff aim to provide personalized financial solutions and outstanding customer experiences for life and business. This approach benefits current Prism customers and makes Prism Bank an attractive choice for future generations seeking unique, niche services. As Prism Bank embraces its vibrant new identity, it remains committed to delivering excellence in banking services, forging stronger connections with its customers and attracting top talent to join its expanding team. To learn more about Prism Bank and its range of financial services, please visit prism.bank . About Prism Bank Formerly Oklahoma State Bank, Prism Bank is a community bank serving customers across central Oklahoma. For more than a century, Prism's passionate team and entrepreneurial culture has addressed the diverse needs of its communities. Prism Bank fuels success for every facet of your life and business. To learn more about the organization and its services, visit prism.bank . SOURCE Oklahoma State Bank ADEL, Iowa and READING, Pa., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Iowa Spring announced today that it has acquired Northeast Spring of Reading, Pennsylvania. The acquisition of Northeast Spring closed on September 15, 2023, and expands Iowa Spring's growing presence as the premier supplier of precision-made springs for the overhead door, construction, agriculture, and recreational equipment industries across the globe. "I am so proud to be able to offer a place for Northeast Spring's legacy to continue," said Iowa Spring CEO Tim Bianco. Post this Northeast Spring is a family-owned and operated business that has supplied high-quality, custom-made springs for over 25 years. Primarily serving the overhead door industry, Northeast Spring operations include both its Reading, Pennsylvania headquarters as well as its Villa Rica, Georgia facility. The company name and management team will remain intact with founder John O'Leary remaining onboard for the next three years to ensure a smooth transition. "Our team has worked tirelessly for more than two decades to build a highly respected company that is focused on family values, quality and integrity," said O'Leary. "With so many spring companies being acquired by large private equity groups, it was essential to me to find a like-minded buyer that could be trusted to keep our team intact and who could uphold our company's legacy and reputation. Iowa Spring is a perfect match, and I am confident in knowing that Northeast Spring will be in good, capable hands moving forward." Following the acquisition, Iowa Spring President & CEO Tim Bianco will oversee operations of Northeast Spring in addition to its three existing facilities: the original Iowa Spring facility, its recent 55,000 square foot nearby expansion facility, and its sister company Southern Atlantic Spring of Granite Quarry, North Carolina. "I am so proud to be able to offer a place for Northeast Spring's legacy to continue" said Bianco. "John O'Leary and his team have built a thriving business with an outstanding reputation. The Iowa Spring team is excited to welcome Northeast Spring to our family. As a group of like-minded companies, this acquisition represents the opportunity to offer our customers additional capacity and locations to better serve their needs. "With an ethos of family, high quality, and customer satisfaction, we look forward to leveraging our newly expanded group's capabilities to best serve the overhead door and other target markets." The companies' combined capabilities will position the Iowa Spring group to provide a wide depth and breadth of high quality, custom manufactured springs while maintaining a "customer-centric" focus. About Iowa Spring In operation for over 45 years, Iowa Spring is a precision manufacturer of springs used in the overhead door, construction, agriculture, and recreational equipment industries. Iowa Spring is proudly owned and operated by its original founders, with two locations based in Adel, Iowa. The group also owns a sister company, Southern Atlantic Spring of Granite Quarry, North Carolina. With the addition of Northeast Spring, the Iowa Spring group of companies now span five North American production locations encompassing 375,000 square feet of manufacturing space. For more information about Iowa Spring, visit www.iowaspring.com About Northeast Spring Northeast Spring is a manufacturer of high-quality custom springs, including overhead door springs for OEMs, direct use manufacturers and suppliers worldwide. Northeast Spring is headquartered in Reading, Pennsylvania, with an additional manufacturing facility in Villa Rica, Georgia. For more information on Northeast Spring, visit www.nespring.com. MEDIA CONTACT: Jackie Bozart, Sell.Market.Win, [email protected] SOURCE Iowa Spring SINGAPORE, Sept. 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- JIOS Aerogel has secured significant investment from the MegaChem Group (both the Thailand and Singapore listed entities), to fund the launch of its plants in Singapore, catering to the growing demand for its technology in electric vehicle (EV) batteries. The funding will support JIOS Aerogel's two plants in Southeast Asia: its aerogel production facility and its new Singapore site for fully automated production of its Thermal Blade. The company is expanding its manufacturing capabilities to meet the needs of automakers in Europe, North America, and Asia Pacific, who require ultra-thin, compressible insulation for EV battery cells. Stephen Kang, Co-Founder and Managing Director of JIOS Aerogel, enthusiastically expressed, "We are thrilled to welcome MGT and MegaChem as investors, further bolstering the burgeoning aerogel market within the electric vehicle battery industry. As seasoned global solution providers, they have demonstrated a keen understanding of both the immediate demand and the significant growth prospects associated with incorporating aerogels into the electrification of transportation." JIOS Aerogel's cutting-edge breakthrough, the Thermal Blade, leverages the exceptional properties of aerogels to deliver superior thermal protection for battery cells, significantly enhancing their safety and performance. Dr Vitthaya Inala, Chief Executive Officer at MegaChem (Thailand) PCL, commented: "We have identified the exceptional capabilities and potential of JIOS' technology in addressing the unprecedented demand for battery materials. We are enthusiastic about our investment in this highly innovative organisation." Mr Sidney Chew, Managing Director of MegaChem Limited, also expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "JIOS Aerogel has demonstrated the effectiveness of their distinctive and cost-efficient approach to aerogel manufacturing. We are eager to support JIOS as they rapidly expand to seize the opportunities emerging in the electric vehicle market." JIOS Aerogel has chosen Singapore as the location for its first automotive component manufacturing facility, complemented by its Innovation Centre, inaugurated in 2020. This state-of-the-art plant will employ JIOS' automated production process, a breakthrough developed with support from the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB). The production engineering for this facility has been entrusted to EDAG Production Solutions GmbH & Co KG, a versatile team of approximately 1,300 professionals specialising in developing production plants. EDAG Production Solutions GmbH & Co KG is a part of the EDAG Group, the largest independent development service provider in the global mobility industry, boasting a workforce of over 8,400 skilled individuals. About JIOS Aerogel JIOS Aerogel (JIOS) is the world's leading manufacturer of silica aerogel powder. Headquartered in Singapore, the company was founded in 2013 to pioneer a new process that dramatically lowers the cost of aerogel production. JIOS is on a mission to accelerate the adoption of aerogels to improve the safety and performance of electric-vehicle (EV) batteries. Recognised globally as the premier technology for mitigating thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries, aerogels provide an ultra-thin insulation layer between battery cells, offering exceptional thermal protection at high temperatures. For more information, visit www.jiosaerogel.com About MegaChem (Thailand) Public Company Limited Megachem (Thailand) was founded in 1992 in a joint-venture agreement as a specialty chemicals distributor aimed to provide unrivalled services and product innovations to the growing industrial market in Thailand. The company distributes a variety of chemicals in industries including coatings, adhesives and sealants, polymers, metal finishing, construction, plastics, pharmaceutical, home care, personal care, food supplements, and animal nutrition. To align with the heavily industrialized and growing demands of Thailand, the company strives to provide a holistic solution to meet the customers' needs. For more information, visit www.megachem.co.th About MegaChem Limited Established in 1988, MegaChem is a one-stop specialty chemical solutions provider. We provide integrated value-added services including distribution and contract manufacturing of specialty chemicals to meet our customers' requirements. The Group distributes its products globally through its extensive distribution network in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, Myanmar, China, India, the Middle East, Australia and the United Kingdom. MegaChem distributes over 1,000 different types and grades of specialty chemicals, with a wide range of applications to an established and diversified base of more than 2,000 industrial customers, comprising mostly well-known multinational companies. The Group serves a wide spectrum of industries including water treatment, metal finishing, construction, oil and gas, food, beverage, flavours, fragrance, pharmaceuticals, polymers, coatings, electronics, rubber and plastics. To enhance the Group's competitive edge and complement its strength in distribution, MegaChem provides integrated services such as the contract manufacturing of specialty chemicals and other ancillary services for its customers. For more information, please visit www.megachem.com.sg SOURCE JIOS Aerogel Commercial real estate lawyer selected to legal guide for 11th consecutive year HOUSTON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Moody Law Group founder John S. Moody Jr. has been named for an 11th consecutive year to Texas Super Lawyers, a highly regarded legal listing that recognizes the top 5% of attorneys in the state. Mr. Moody, who was honored for his work in real estate law, is board certified in commercial real estate law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. He has experience representing developers, owners, financial institutions, families and private equity firms. He is also a regular commentator on real estate matters in Houston, often hosting panels about the city's investment market. "I am thankful to be honored another year," said Mr. Moody. "Texas is home to incredible real estate legal talent. To receive this honor from my peers is really special, and I believe it is also a nod to our firm and the hard work this team of lawyers puts in for our clients." Moody Law Group is well-versed in legal matters related to commercial or industrial real estate development such as leasing, loans, sales and acquisitions. The firm is regularly called upon to provide strategic perspectives on real estate interests, holdings or disputes, whether it's a business-oriented analysis or active support during litigation or mediation. The 2023 edition of Texas Super Lawyers, a Thomson Reuters-owned publication, will be published online at superlawyers.com and in the fall edition of Texas Monthly. About Moody Law Group, PLLC: Moody Law Group is a Houston-based law firm that focuses exclusively on complex commercial real estate matters. With a team composed of seasoned and board-certified real estate attorneys, the firm remains one of the most experienced and uniquely equipped teams to guide developers, property owners, financial institutions, investors, retailers and private equity funds through their legal and real estate challenges. To learn more about Moody Law Group's commercial real estate expertise, visit www.moodylawgroup.com. Media Contact: April Arias 800-559-4534 [email protected] SOURCE Moody Law Group PLLC Michelle Gaskill-Hames has served in the role on an interim basis since April 2023 OAKLAND, Calif., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Kaiser Permanente has announced that Michelle Gaskill-Hames, BSN, MHA, has been named regional president of Kaiser Permanente for Southern California and Hawaii, a role she has held on an interim basis since April 2023. She will lead the organization's focus on providing integrated, high-quality health care and coverage in partnership with the executive medical director for the Southern California Permanente Medical Group. Kaiser Permanente currently provides care and coverage for more than 5 million members in Southern California and Hawaii. Kaiser Permanente has named Michelle Gaskill-Hames as the new Southern California and Hawaii regional president Gaskill-Hames previously served as the chief operating officer and chief strategy, growth, and experience officer for Kaiser Permanente in Southern California and Hawaii. She was named interim president following the announced retirement of Julie Miller-Phipps. "Michelle uses her deep operational knowledge and strategic focus to ensure that our members consistently receive high-quality care and service at every touchpoint," said Janet Liang, executive vice president, group president and chief operating officer, care delivery, for Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc. and Hospitals. "She keeps our members' needs at the center of all of that she does." Gaskill-Hames joined Kaiser Permanente in 2016 and served in a progression of leadership roles in Northern California before moving to Southern California in 2022, including senior vice president and area manager for both Redwood City and Greater Southern Alameda, interim regional chief nurse executive, and senior vice president of hospital and health plan operations. Prior to joining Kaiser Permanente, Gaskill-Hames served in multiple hospital leadership roles, including president of Advocate Trinity Hospital in the Advocate Health Care network in Chicago. Gaskill-Hames is an executive board member of the California Hospital Association and the Integrated Healthcare Association. She has also recently been appointed to the Business Cabinet for Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. About Kaiser Permanente Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America's leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.7 million members in 8 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, contact: [email protected] SOURCE Kaiser Permanente TORONTO, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Kognitiv is thrilled to announce that it has earned a spot on the 2023 TMW 100 List, which recognizes companies that are raising the stakes in marketing technology innovation across the globe. Kognitiv was reviewed by an esteemed panel of judges from around the world, who assessed the company in the category of Product Innovation. TWM 100 provides a stage for the world's most innovative martech companies to compete against each other to receive the prestigious honour of being the named the best of the best. Kognitiv Recognized as Global Martech Leader in the TMW 100 (CNW Group/Kognitiv Corporation) Kognitiv is proud of this recognition for its versatile AI and machine-learning powered customer insights and activation product, Kognitiv Pulse, which underwent an assessment focused on excellence in these specific areas: Compelling Story and Impact Benefits Novelty and Uniqueness Scalability and market potential Ethics approach Industry collaboration End user outcomes Kognitiv Pulse transforms customer data into predictive insights and prescriptive recommendations, enabling brands to proactively optimize their customers' lifecycle journeys. Built on Kognitiv's proven SmartJourney lifecycle methodology, Kognitiv Pulse identifiesat an individual levelexactly where customers are in their lifecycle journey and predicts where they will go next; uncovers the biggest opportunities to increase revenue; and, delivers prescriptive recommendations to maximize customer lifetime value and reduce churn. "We are incredibly proud to be recognized by the panel of judges as one of the top 100 global companies driving innovation in marketing technology," said Tim Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer of Kognitiv. "This accolade is a testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of martech in the loyalty solutions space. We're bringing AI-native products to market that drive profitable revenue growth by taking the guesswork out of delivering the experiences that drive customer engagement and increased lifetime value." The final rankings within the top 100 will be decided by votes received from the public during the voting period from September 15 to 29. "We are thrilled by the enthusiastic turnout in our inaugural year," said Juan Mendoza, CEO and founder of Martech Weekly. "We knew that the industry was in desperate need of a new kind of awards program. One that would take an industry neutral approach to evaluating which companies are driving the future of martech through innovation and execution. This year's TMW 100 is a truly impressive list of innovators and we're excited to see which company will take the first place prize as chosen by the marketing public." For details about the TMW 100, and to vote for Kognitiv, please visit https://tmw100.awardsplatform.com/entry/vote/ZoqvwgoY. About Kognitiv Kognitiv inspires lifetime loyalty by helping brands build deeper relationships with their customers. Their intelligent, omnichannel SaaS platform delivers data-driven personalization across the entire customer lifecycle, enabling superior marketing effectiveness and consumer engagement. In June 2020, Kognitiv and Aimia's Loyalty Solutions business came together to become a global loyalty solutions leader. Today, Kognitiv serves a broad portfolio of global brand customers and has employees in over 20 countries. With decades of loyalty solutions experience, Kognitiv has the history, the technology and the expertise to help marketing professionals stay ahead of the customer expectation curve. Kognitiv's largest investors include Aimia Inc., a publicly-traded holding company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: AIM). Find out more at www.kognitiv.com. About the TMW 100 Awards Hosted by Martech Weekly, the TMW 100 is a premier annual awards initiative, heralded as the first of its kind, spotlighting innovation within the international martech sector. A distinguished panel, representing major global regions such as Asia Pacific, North America, Europe, LATAM, and MENA, judges the list of contenders. Following their selection for the Judge's Pick, the wider community casts their votes, culminating in the revered Top 100 ranking and a feature in the annual Martech Innovation Index Report. In a commitment to fostering inclusivity in martech, TMW 100 contributes 5% of all event earnings to the non-profit, She Loves Data, championing the cause of encouraging more girls and women to pursue fulfilling careers in the marketing technology realm. Learn more here . About Martech Weekly The Martech Weekly is a global media and research company serving marketers, researchers, journalists, consultants and technology companies spanning more than 65 countries and more than a million marketers annually. Through its premium newsletter product, TMW PRO, Martech Weekly reaches senior marketing and sales leaders across the globe. The company also hosts the Making Sense of Martech Podcast, and frequently collaborates with publications such as WARC, AdExchanger, Chiefmartec, the MarTech Podcast and more. Learn more at Martech Weekly.com SOURCE Kognitiv Corporation From 626 to Farmers' Markets: The Direct Impact of the HSW Trailer Proactive Localization: The Korea Ginseng Corp. Trailer Roadshow HSW Herbal Beverage Brand Beats the Heat with Sparkling New Summer Line-up: Recharge, Sharp, and Calm The HSW Trailer: A Mobile Hub for the Health-Conscious Consumer CERRITOS, Calif., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Korea Ginseng Corp. has unveiled its latest venture a promotional trailer showcasing three innovative new beverages: Sharp, Recharge, and Calm. Making it their mission to introduce the HSW brand to a diverse audience, the company's goal is to achieve a striking new level of consumer familiarity. Korea Ginseng Corp. unveils innovative guerilla marketing approach with HSW sparkling herbal beverages. The world's number 1 ginseng brand recently expanded its reach on the East Coast, gaining new momentum with events in New York Times Square and Rockefeller Center. With the launch of this new promotional trailer, KGC is now shifting its focus to guerrilla marketing, determined to make the most of specific opportunities to directly connect with California consumers. This latest initiative is the direct result of a new marketing strategy, one aimed at aligning their brand with the "Food as Medicine" healthy lifestyle trend. The dynamic trailer just took center stage at the prestigious 626 Market, garnering fresh acclaim for the brand. As part of its ambitious expansion plans, the trailer will now tour Southern California, making scheduled appearances at local landmarks, leisure spots, farmers' markets, popular grocery stores, high density office complexes, and such leading malls such as South Coast Plaza and Fashion Island. The medicinal benefits of food will be featured throughout the campaign, and the HSW range of Korean red ginseng-infused beverages will be in the limelight. Korea Ginseng Corp. is not merely introducing a new set of HSW products. Instead, it is leveraging its newly established American Research and Development Center in the U.S. to execute a comprehensive and proactive localization strategy. With big plans for the future, the company intends to introduce a host of new products, localized to cater to West Coast tastes and backed by significant marketing muscle from the Korea Agro-Fisheries and Food Trade Corporation's Los Angeles Brand Center. Seen in this light, KGC is giving the age-old wisdom of HongSamWon KGC's best-selling tonic a contemporary new twist. HSW, made from fully mature 6-year-old Korean red ginseng, now comes in three flavors: Calm, Recharge, and Sharp. Caffeine-free and with less than 40 calories, each variation on the HSW theme boasts natural ingredients with no artificial sweeteners or GMOs. It's the refreshing, healthy choice for any time of the day. About Korea Ginseng Corp. Korea Ginseng Corp.(KGC) is the world's number one ginseng brand and herbal dietary company. Established in 1899, it is one of the most proven and trusted herbal dietary supplement manufacturers, providing the highest quality, traditionally harvested Korean Red Ginseng products to support health and well-being. KGC runs four regional headquarters in the United States, China, Japan, and Taiwan, in addition to South Korea, and exports products to over 40 countries. With over 40% world market share, its presence spans Asia, Europe, the Middle East region and the U.S. KGC's family of brands include KORESELECT, CheongKwanJang, Good Base, and Donginbi. The KGC brands, inclusive of over 250 products, use the most exceptional ginseng combined with the finest herbs and ingredients to deliver superior products to meet everyone's needs. SOURCE KGC (Korea Ginseng Corp.) BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, September 18. The National Investment Agency under the President of Kyrgyzstan and the Turkish Altinok Consulting Engineering Company agreed on the promotion of projects in the logistics sector and the construction of a logistics center in Kyrgyzstan, Trend reports. The corresponding agreement was signed following a meeting between the Deputy Director of the National Investment Agency under the President of Kyrgyzstan, Nuradil Bayasov, and the President of Altinok Consulting Engineering Company, Enver Altinok, in Istanbul. During the meeting, the representatives of the Turkish company were briefed on the investment opportunities available in Kyrgyzstan. The sides also touched upon Kyrgyzstans potential for exports to the EU markets under preferential status (GSP and GSP+), as well as to the UK with reduced or zero tariffs and under simplified conditions within the framework of the Developing Countries Trade Scheme (DCTS), as well as the potential of the Eurasian Customs Union. The investment agency stressed that Kyrgyzstan's significance as a transit country along the Middle Corridor underscores the need for the development of logistics infrastructure. Altinok Consulting Engineering Company is a consulting firm specializing in major infrastructure projects. The company was founded in 1967 and currently employs over 480 engineers. NCCN 2023 Annual Congress: Hematologic Malignancies features expert perspectives on developments in blood cancer treatment, including NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines) Updates, CAR T-Cell therapy, BTK Inhibitors, Bispecific T-Cell Engagers, and More SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) 2023 Annual Congress: Hematologic Malignancies returns to San Francisco this week, for the first time since 2019. The meeting features insights from world-renowned experts on providing optimal, evidence-based treatment for various blood cancers, plus best practices for protecting vulnerable populations in a changing healthcare landscape. The live event is taking place September 22-23, 2023, at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square. For full details and to register, visit NCCN.org/hem. NCCN 2023 Annual Congress: Hematologic Malignancies is taking place September 22-23, 2023. Learn more at NCCN.org/hem. Post this "We designed a comprehensive program for the entire hematology and oncology teamtaking into account the latest advances, conversations, and controversies in blood cancer treatment today," said congress Chair Andrew D. Zelenetz, MD, PhD, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. "Attendees from all over the world can learn about the most up-to-date evidence and expert consensus for improving outcomes for patients with a variety of hematologic malignancies. The event also provides opportunities for networking and questions with leading experts in the field." The hybrid event is back in California for the first time in four years, following last year's meeting in New York City. Attendees are also able to attend live online via NCCN's easy-to-use virtual platform. Sessions will remain accessible on-demand for 60 days following the event for all registrants. Some of this year's featured topics include: Identifying and managing toxicities in patients receiving CAR T-cell therapy Revolutionizing hematologic cancer treatment with bispecific T-cell engagers Integrating new WHO/ICC classification systems Tackling inequities in access and quality of care for patients with multiple myeloma Managing graft-versus-host disease in transplant recipients Prevention and management of blood clots Speakers will also share information and research pertaining to the treatment of Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), B-Cell Malignancies, Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia/Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (CLL/SLL), Chronic Myeloid Leukemia, Hodgkin Lymphoma, Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL), Multiple Myeloma (MM), Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS), Myelofibrosis (MF), and Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (WM). "This conference seeks to provide clear, understandable, and actionable updates to help busy care providers analyze, evaluate, and contextualize new clinical data," said Wui-Jin Koh, MD, Senior Vice President, Chief Medical Officer, NCCN. "This will help us all to achieve the best possible outcomes for people with blood cancer in a rapidly evolving landscape." Save the dates: the NCCN 2024 Annual Conference will be happening in Orlando, FL April 5 - 7, 2024. Visit NCCN.org/conference for more information. About the National Comprehensive Cancer Network The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) is a not-for-profit alliance of leading cancer centers devoted to patient care, research, and education. NCCN is dedicated to improving and facilitating quality, effective, equitable, and accessible cancer care so all patients can live better lives. The NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines) provide transparent, evidence-based, expert consensus recommendations for cancer treatment, prevention, and supportive services; they are the recognized standard for clinical direction and policy in cancer management and the most thorough and frequently-updated clinical practice guidelines available in any area of medicine. The NCCN Guidelines for Patients provide expert cancer treatment information to inform and empower patients and caregivers, through support from the NCCN Foundation. NCCN also advances continuing education, global initiatives, policy, and research collaboration and publication in oncology. Visit NCCN.org for more information. Media Contact: Rachel Darwin 267-622-6624 [email protected] SOURCE National Comprehensive Cancer Network AGIOS TYCHON, Cyprus, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- After establishing a foothold in Cyprus with its new Limassol office, the globally distributed digital PR and online reputation management (ORM) firm Buzz Dealer will once again take part in this year's IFX Expo at Limassol , the world's largest financial B2B event, held in the city. The event will take place between Sept. 19-21, and Buzz Dealer's booth - booth #52 - will be open to visitors throughout the whole convention. Leading Digital PR Firm Buzz Dealer to Participate in IFX Expo 2023 in Limassol This year, Buzz Dealer plans to send an especially large delegation of professionals, covering every aspect of the services provided by the brand. Attending the event on behalf of Buzz Dealer are CEO and founder Uri Samet, CMO Tzur Rupin, VP of Operations Omer Otmi, VP of Business Development Ron Gilo, SEO account manager Sahar Houri and Head of ORM David Wiseman. Wiseman, a reputed online branding expert and the author of 'A Guide to Online Reputation Management: How to Fortify Your Online Presence', will also hold one-on-one consultation meetings with anyone who is interested to learn more about improving their personal online reputation (registration in advance is highly recommended, limited slots left). "This is Buzz Dealer's third consecutive year at the IFX, and we are excited to meet all of our friends, suppliers, clients, affiliates and future prospects," commented Rupin. "We have a full schedule planned for the expo, including a lot of surprises and up and coming meetings with new potential collaborations. We can't wait to see what is new with the industry, and the IFX at Limassol is exactly the place to do so. Having said that, we are always open to new faces and opportunities, so if you want to get to know us better, feel free to pop in at booth #52 and say hello at any time. Our crew will be waiting!" Special offers for attendees only Buzz Dealer will also be launching a limited-time offer on its select digital PR package, valid during expo days and to attendees only. This exclusive package includes increased exposure on leading financial news outlets, alongside enhanced press coverage to brands and businesses. This promotion is available alongside Buzz Dealer's signature ORM services, about which attendees can also learn more at the convention. Providing unique solutions for online visibility, Buzz Dealer deploys various techniques for an optimal online reputation, including positive representation online via multiple channels and platforms. "We'll be there to provide the best ORM and digital PR solutions, with the best price on the market," added Rupin, "but that's not all. There are several additional surprises that I can't go into detail about just yet. We have put much effort in our merchandise this year and some really nice prizes are in our raffles. I'm sure that no one will miss our booth this year." About Buzz Dealer Established in 2009 as a pioneer in the digital PR industry, Buzz Dealer today is a globally distributed company, catering to clients from 30 different nations and in multiple languages. The company is widely recognized for the quality of its services such as ORM, search engine optimization (SEO), app store optimization (ASO) and performance marketing (being a Facebook and Google marketing partner). Recently, the company has also ventured into the AI-driven marketing field. With a supplementing office in Tel Aviv, Israel, Buzz Dealer can be contacted via email or telephone for scheduling a preliminary consultation meeting. More details about what the company does can be found on its blog at https://buzzdealer.com/blog/ . Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2213542/Buzz_Dealer_IFX.jpg SOURCE Buzz Dealer The agency will leverage the technology to improve data collection, thereby fostering greater transparency and accountability within the agency. LEXINGTON, Miss., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CivicEye, the full spectrum platform for public safety, has been selected to upgrade the records management and court management systems of Lexington Police Department in Mississippi. Lexington PD will be one of the first agencies to implement the CivicCase for Court system, CivicEye's latest product in their suite of cloud-based software solutions. CivicCase for Court offers users the convenience to create and access digital dockets and customizable forms, manage billing, generate subpoenas, and access case summaries, among other features. This new product will seamlessly share information with integrated technologies, like Lexington PD's new RMS, CivicRMS. Unlike the agency's previous RMS, CivicRMS provides NIBRS-compliant reporting and data analytics capabilities. Together, these tools enable efficient and secure data sharing between the police department and court system. "In the past, our officers always had to return to the department building to input any updates within the RMS," said Chief Henderson. "Now, our agency can use CivicEye's cloud-based technology to share data instantly with our courts, which will help us better protect our data and serve our community." With this improved security, the agency will be able to track all users' activity and protect sensitive information. Additionally, Lexington PD will be able to access critical CAD information within their RMS and search thousands of files instantly with advanced search functionalityall within a CJIS-secure environment. "We're proud to offer more than just software out of a box to our partners in Lexingtonwe're providing an evolving solution that improves communication across stakeholders within the city," said Khristian Gutierrez, CEO of CivicEye. "This partnership marks another significant step in the city's effort to underpin the foundation required to strengthen bridges and build community trust." CivicEye, which serves law enforcement and prosecutors across the United States, already hosts 24 law enforcement agencies within Mississippi. About CivicEye CivicEye delivers modern, easy-to-use cloud software for law enforcement and prosecutors that enhances daily workflows and improves community outcomes. The CivicEye platform includes Records, Digital Evidence, and Case Management solutions that reduce friction points within and across departments. CivicEye serves over 130 agencies across the United States. Media Contact: Adrienne Clarke, [email protected] Sales Contact: Khristian Gutierrez, [email protected] www.civiceye.com SOURCE CivicEye WELLSVILLE, N.Y., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- LJUNGSTRM has signed a contract with Riggs Distler & Company, Inc. to provide specialized structural steelwork for another offshore wind project. Ocean Wind I, New Jersey's first offshore wind project developed by U.S. offshore wind leader rsted, will be located 15 miles off the coast of Southern New Jersey. The project will generate 1,100 MW of energy, which is enough to power more than 500,000 homes and is expected to begin commercial operations in 2025. "We are thrilled to support our valuable partner, Riggs Distler, with another offshore wind farm project utilizing our strong manufacturing capabilities and highly skilled workforce", says Matt Ferris, Managing Director, LJUNGSTRM USA. "We are committed to support the growth of offshore wind power in North America with our experienced know-how and unique know-why. We are pleased that current orders emphasize the trust in our technology and solutions." LJUNGSTROM proves its U.S. leadership in high quality components that are essential to offshore wind turbine foundations Post this With this additional project LJUNGSTROM has structural component orders for over 2,800 MW of offshore wind capacity, and these deliveries for the Ocean Wind I project will be made to rsted's offshore wind advanced foundation component center at Tradepoint Atlantic in Maryland, where Riggs Distler will employ more than 125 skilled tradesmen and women from local labor unions to assemble the components. LJUNGSTROM is making a name for itself as the first U.S. based supplier of secondary structural steel components for the U.S. offshore wind industry. Being one of the essential suppliers to Sunrise Wind, Revolution Wind, South Fork Wind, and now Ocean Wind I, LJUNGSTROM proves its leadership in high quality fabrication, assembly, coating and shipping components that are essential to the wind turbine foundations. Dedicated to delivering exceptional quality and service, the company continues to further expand its workforce and manufacturing capabilities at its facility in Wellsville, New York. About LJUNGSTROM LJUNGSTROM, a division of ARVOS Group, is a global leader providing innovative solutions to a diversified range of industries, with a focus on environmentally beneficial technologies to enable more efficient and cleaner operations. With a century of history in Wellsville, New York, LJUNGSTROM has a proven track record of expertise in engineering, manufacturing, and field services. Related links: https://www.ljungstrom.com SOURCE LJUNGSTROM FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- LSPedia, a leading traceability solution provider for the pharmaceutical industry, announced that it has selected Drogueria Betances, one of the largest wholesale distributors in Puerto Rico, as an official reseller of LSPedia's OneScan Pharmacy Pro, the pharmacy industry's top solution for compliance with the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA). OneScan Pharmacy Pro is the #1 solution for DSCSA, offering dispensers a simple, affordable way to receive, track, manage, verify, and investigate EPCIS data, while automating elements such as expiry management, trading partner licenses, and FDA reporting. This partnership will increase the availability of Pharmacy Pro across Puerto Rico, enabling pharmacies to achieve comprehensive compliance with their requirements under DSCSA while protecting their businesses against audits, regulatory penalties, and losses incurred by data errors and exceptions. LSPedia's OneScan Pharmacy Pro enables any pharmacy to quickly achieve comprehensive DSCSA compliance, offering seamless integration with pharmacy systems as well as modules that cover essential functions such as serialization, EPCIS data, and verification. The solution also features automated exceptions management via LSPedia's breakthrough Investigator technology, an advantage that prevents product loss and drastically reduces the time needed to resolve transaction problems. Juan Carlos Hernandez, President of Drogueria Betances, said the partnership provides vital support for Puerto Rico's pharmacies. "There's nothing more important to us than protecting independent pharmacies and their patients. By offering Pharmacy Pro, we have an opportunity not only to help pharmacies avoid the dangers of non-compliance, but to make their systems better, more secure, and more efficient." DSCSA, enacted in 2013, adds new requirements for pharmaceutical trading partners at all levels, aimed at enabling complete product traceability and preventing illegitimate products from entering the supply chain. As the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) stated in guidance at the end of August, all trading partners are to be in compliance with DSCSA ahead of the November 27, 2023 deadline, and use the following year as a stabilization period for their systems and procedures. "Drogueria Betances is exemplary in its dedication to compliance and use of best-in-class technology," said LSPedia's Daniel MacKinnon, Vice President of Sales & Marketing. "We're thrilled to partner with them on Pharmacy Pro. With access to this solution, pharmacies can meet both their current and their future obligations under DSCSA, and that's going to protect patients, support business growth, and strengthen the entire supply chain." About LSPedia DSCSA Compliance Solutions LSPedia is a leading provider of turnkey DSCSA compliance and SaaS solutions in the pharmaceutical industry. Trading partners at all points in the supply chain use LSPedia's OneScan solution to make, move, track, verify, ship, and receive serialized products. LSPedia builds solutions with workflow, automation, and data security at their core. OneScan delivers flexible integrations, high-performance product verification, and state-of-the-art EPCIS data exchange; LSPedia's Investigator platform is the gold standard for serialization exceptions management. For more information, call +1 (248) 973-2008, email [email protected], or visit www.lspedia.com. About Drogueria Betances Drogueria Betances, a locally owned Puerto Rican company, has been a leader in the pharmaceutical product distribution industry for over 60 years. They serve over 800 community pharmacies, hospitals, doctors, and veterinarians in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. With a commitment to health and innovation, Drogueria Betances has evolved to impact the broader healthcare industry in Puerto Rico. They provide a wide range of pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter products, home healthcare products, and consumer goods. Drogueria Betances remains dedicated to serving Puerto Rico's healthcare needs with excellence, passion, integrity, transparency, and commitment. SOURCE LSPedia VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Luca Mining Corp. ("Luca" or the "Company" (TSXV: LUCA) (OTCQX: LUCMF) (Frankfurt: Z68) is pleased to announce the addition of Ms. Sophia Shane as Director of Corporate Development. Ms. Shane brings decades of experience in capital markets, corporate development and investor relations to Luca following a career spanning nearly 30 years at the highly successful Lundin Group of Companies. At the Lundin Group she was involved in all aspects of marketing, branding, shareholder communications, corporate access, financing, regulatory compliance as well as media relations. Her focus throughout the years has been to provide the very best in shareholder information. She also brings considerable strategic experience in IR and corporate development, and will add great strength to the existing Luca team. Sophia has been a Director of several public companies including Anfield Ventures which ultimately became Equinox Gold, and is currently a Director of Interfield Global Software Inc. (IFSS:NEO). She was a Fellow of CSI (FCSI) and early in her career an Investment Advisor at Odlum Brown Ltd. Mike Struthers, CEO, commented: "We're very excited to welcome Sophia into the Luca fold. She brings an enormous amount of experience in the IR space, having helped the Lundin Group grow from their very early days to what they are today. I'm very much looking forwards to working with Sophia to help grow Luca into a very successful mining company." The Company announces that pursuant to its Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan, it has granted incentive stock options entitling Employees and Consultants to purchase an aggregate 225,000 shares in the capital stock of the Company. The options will be exercisable at a price of $0.35 per share for a period of 5 years. About Luca Mining Corp. Luca Mining Corp. is a Canadian based mining company operating two 100% owned Mexican gold, silver, and base metal mining projects. Luca's Tahuehueto Gold Mine Project is in Durango State, Mexico where construction of a 1,000 tonnes per day ("tpd") operation is expected to complete by 4Q2023. The project is in pre-production generating gold, silver, lead, and zinc in concentrates. Campo Morado is an operating polymetallic base and precious metals mine producing zinc and copper concentrates with significant precious metals credits. Visit: www.Lucamining.com On Behalf of the Board of Directors (signed) "Mike Struthers" Mike Struthers, CEO and Director Cautionary Note Regarding Production Decisions and Forward-Looking Statements It should be noted that Luca declared commercial production at Campo Morado prior to completing a feasibility study of mineral reserves demonstrating economic and technical viability. Accordingly, readers should be cautioned that Luca's production decision has been made without a comprehensive feasibility study of established reserves such that there is greater risk and uncertainty as to future economic results from the Campo Morado mine and a higher technical risk of failure than would be the case if a feasibility study were completed and relied upon to make a production decision. Luca has completed a preliminary economic assessment ("PEA") mining study on the Campo Morado mine that provides a conceptual life of mine plan and a preliminary economic analysis based on the previously identified mineral resources (see News Release dated November 8, 2017, and April 4,2018). Statements contained in this news release that are not historical facts are "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "Forward-Looking Information") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward Looking Information includes, but is not limited to, disclosure regarding the planned recommencement of mining operationsty6 at Campo Morado; and other possible events, conditions or financial performance that are based on assumptions about future economic conditions and courses of action; the timing and costs of future activities on the Company's properties, such as production rates and increases; success of exploration, development and bulk sample processing activities, and timing for processing at its own mineral processing facility on the Tahuehueto project site. In certain cases, Forward-Looking Information can be identified using words and phrases such as "plans," "expects," "scheduled," "estimates," "forecasts," "intends," "anticipates" or variations of such words and phrases. In preparing the Forward-Looking Information in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including, but not limited to, that the current exploration, development, environmental and other objectives concerning the Campo Morado Mine and the Tahuehueto Project can be achieved; that recommencement of operations at Campo Morado will proceed as planned; the continuity of the price of gold and other metals, economic and political conditions, and operations. Forward-Looking Information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the Forward-Looking Information. 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 statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on Forward-Looking Information. Except as required by law, the Company does not assume any obligation to release publicly any revisions to Forward-Looking Information contained in this news release to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE Luca Mining Corp. MONTEREY, Calif., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Automotive enthusiasts and aficionados were in full force and well-represented at this year's Monterey Car Week in August. And Alcantara, the "Made-in-Italy" lifestyle brand, was well-represented as well. Alcantara worked closely with some of the world's top luxury car brands to create exclusive, luxurious interiors. Maserati MCXtrema The prominent list of vehicles that featured Alcantara interiors included the Czinger 21C Blackbird Edition, Maserati MCXtrema, Rimac Nevera Time Attack, Automobili Pininfarina Battista Edizione Nino Farina, and McLaren with its 750S model and its new Solus GT in a limited edition. Alcantara's lightweight, breathable, maximum-grip luxury material enhances a car's overall driving experience. Alcantara maintains a strong commitment to the environment and was certified "Carbon Neutral" in 2009. Carbon neutrality certification is based on the offset of greenhouse gas emissions through the acquisition of carbon credits from certified and verified offset projects. For further information: www.alcantara.com twitter facebook youtube instagram SOURCE Alcantara S.p.A. CHICAGO, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The flexibility to adapt to new technologies, the emphasis on cybersecurity, sustainability, and industry-specific solutions will define the Managed Services Market's future, making it a crucial partner for businesses looking to optimise their IT and operational processes. The Managed Services Market size is expected to grow from USD 275.5 billion in 2023 to USD 372.6 billion by 2028 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2% during the forecast period, according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. Managed service providers (MSPs) actively monitor the client's systems and infrastructure. Leveraging advanced monitoring tools and technologies can identify and address potential issues before they escalate into major problems, minimizing downtime and disruption. One of the significant advantages of managed services is the round-the-clock support that MSPs offer. MSP ensures that critical issues can be addressed promptly, even outside regular business hours, thus improving service reliability and customer satisfaction. Managed services are designed to be scalable, allowing businesses to adjust the scope and scale of services as their needs evolve. This scalability ensures that the organization can adapt to changes in demand, technology, and market conditions without over-committing resources. Browse in-depth TOC on "Managed Services Market" 313 - Tables 73 - Figures 368 - Pages Download PDF Brochure @ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=1141 Scope of the Report Report Metrics Details Market size available for years 20182028 Base year considered 2022 Forecast period 20232028 Forecast units Value (USD Million/Billion) Segments Covered Service Types, Managed Security Service, Managed Network Service, Managed IT Infrastructure and Data Center Service, Managed Communication and Collaboration Service, Managed Mobility Service, Managed Information Service, Verticals, Deployment Types, And Regions Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America Companies Covered Some of the significant Managed Services Market vendors are IBM (US), Fujitsu (Japan), Accenture (Ireland), Atos (France), Cisco (US), DXC (US), TCS (India), Rackspace (US), AT&T (US), Verizon (US), Dimension Data (South Africa), Infosys (India), HCL (India), Ericsson (Sweden), and GTT Communications (US)NTT Communications (Japan), and Digital Reality (US) Moreover, MSPs specialize in cybersecurity, cloud computing, or network management. This specialization allows them to bring deep expertise and knowledge, ensuring that clients benefit from best practices and the latest industry insights. Organizations can often save costs by outsourcing specific functions to managed service providers. Instead of bearing the expenses associated with hiring, training, and maintaining an internal team for particular tasks, businesses pay a predictable fee to the MSP, often resulting in a more cost-effective arrangement. Delegating operational functions to managed service providers allows companies to focus their resources and energy on their core competencies, such as product development, customer service, and strategic planning, leading to increased innovation and competitiveness. Request Sample Pages @ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=1141 By Service Type, the services segment is expected to capture the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The Managed Services Market by service type includes managed security service, network service, IT infrastructure & data center service, communication & collaboration service, mobility service, and information service. The managed mobility service segment is estimated to hold the highest CAGR during the forecasted period. Managed mobility service (MMS) is a comprehensive solution MSPs offer to efficiently manage and optimize an organization's mobile devices and associated infrastructure. MMS aims to streamline the management, security, and support of mobile devices, applications, and data, ensuring enhanced productivity and data protection for a mobile workforce. MMS includes deploying and managing mobile device management (MDM) solutions, which allow organizations to configure, monitor, and secure mobile devices remotely. MDM ensures consistent policy enforcement, app management, and device tracking. Managed mobility service providers implement mobile application management (MAM) to control access to corporate applications and data on mobile devices. MAM enables organizations to distribute, update, and revoke application access efficiently. Furthermore, MMS focuses on mobile security to protect corporate data and applications from unauthorized access and cyber threats. It includes measures such as encryption, containerization, and multifactor authentication to ensure data privacy and compliance with regulations. Moreover, MMS offers technical support and a dedicated helpdesk to address mobile device issues, troubleshoot problems, and assist end-users with mobile-related queries. Lastly, mobile content management is implemented to securely manage and share documents and content on mobile devices, ensuring data confidentiality and preventing data leakage. North America is projected to hold the largest market share during the forecast period. The Managed Services Market by region has been segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East & Africa, and Latin America. As per region, North America is estimated to account for the largest market share in the global Managed Services Market in 2023, and this trend is expected to continue during the forecast period. The Managed Services Market in North America has been studied for countries including the US and Canada. The adoption of the managed services solution is expected to be the highest in North America compared to other regions. Managed services play a crucial role in the North American region, serving as a strategic solution for businesses seeking to optimize their IT operations. These services are typically offered by specialized third-party providers who remotely manage and maintain a company's IT infrastructure and services. The significance of managed services lies in their ability to enhance efficiency, scalability, and cost-effectiveness for organizations. By outsourcing tasks such as network monitoring, cybersecurity, cloud management, data storage, and technical support, companies can focus on their core competencies while gaining access to advanced technologies and expertise. This approach ensures consistent and reliable IT performance, reducing downtime and enhancing productivity. Additionally, managed services help businesses stay updated with the rapidly evolving technology landscape, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements. As a result, North American companies can gain a competitive edge, foster innovation, and adapt to market changes more effectively by strategically utilizing managed services. Top Key Companies in Managed Services Market: Some of the significant Managed Services Market vendors are IBM (US), Fujitsu (Japan), Accenture (Ireland), Atos (France), Cisco (US), DXC (US), TCS (India), Rackspace (US), AT&T (US), Verizon (US), Dimension Data (South Africa), Infosys (India), HCL (India), Ericsson (Sweden), and GTT Communications (US). Recent developments: In July 2023 , Fujitsu launched Managed Security Services (MSS), a suite of security solutions that help organizations protect their data, systems, and applications from cyber threats. Fujitsu's MSS can help organizations detect and respond to cyber threats in real-time. MSS includes using a combination of security tools and human expertise to identify and investigate threats and take appropriate action to mitigate them. Fujitsu's MSS can help organizations monitor their security environment 24/7. MSS also includes monitoring for suspicious activity and compliance with security regulations. , Fujitsu launched Managed Security Services (MSS), a suite of security solutions that help organizations protect their data, systems, and applications from cyber threats. Fujitsu's MSS can help organizations detect and respond to cyber threats in real-time. MSS includes using a combination of security tools and human expertise to identify and investigate threats and take appropriate action to mitigate them. Fujitsu's MSS can help organizations monitor their security environment 24/7. MSS also includes monitoring for suspicious activity and compliance with security regulations. In March 2022 , IBM launched Unified Key Orchestrator, an innovative multi-cloud solution, as a part of IBM Cloud Hyper Protect Crypto Services, which are offered as managed services. , IBM launched Unified Key Orchestrator, an innovative multi-cloud solution, as a part of IBM Cloud Hyper Protect Services, which are offered as managed services. In June 2021 , with Cisco, AT&T Business introduced Webex Calling with AT&T Enterprise to Cisco's Unified Communications Manager Cloud (UCMC), helping businesses optimize operations and accelerate digital transformation in nearly any environment. Inquire Before Buying @ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Enquiry_Before_BuyingNew.asp?id=1141 Managed Services Market Advantages: By removing the requirement for internal IT infrastructure, staffing, and maintenance costs, managed services lower the total cost of ownership. With predictable monthly or yearly service charges, businesses can plan their budgets more efficiently and prevent unforeseen IT expenses. IT, cybersecurity, and cloud computing are just a few of the areas where managed service providers (MSPs) provide access to a team of specialised professionals. Organisations may adjust to growth or changing requirements without experiencing significant disruptions thanks to managed services that can scale up or down based on business demands. Organisations can focus on their main business activities, innovation, and strategic objectives by outsourcing IT and non-core functions. MSPs offer proactive maintenance and 24/7 monitoring to find problems early and fix them, minimising downtime. Managed security services help organisations protect their data and infrastructure by providing cutting-edge cybersecurity protections and threat detection. Managed services improve employee productivity by streamlining processes, decreasing downtime, and optimising IT performance. Report Objectives To define, describe, and forecast the Managed Services Market based on service types: managed security service, network service, IT infrastructure and data center service, communication and collaboration service, mobility service, information service, verticals, deployment types, and regions. To forecast the market size of five main regions: North America , Europe , Asia Pacific (APAC), Middle East & Africa (MEA), and Latin America , , (APAC), & (MEA), and To strategically analyze the market's subsegments concerning individual growth trends, prospects, and contributions to the total market To provide detailed information related to significant factors (drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges) influencing the growth of the market To analyze opportunities in the market for stakeholders and provide details of the competitive landscape for prominent players To comprehensively analyze the core competencies of key players To track and analyze the impact of the recession and competitive developments, such as mergers and acquisitions, new product developments, and partnerships and collaborations, in the market Browse Adjacent Markets: Software and Services Market Research Reports & Consulting Related Reports: Simulation Software Market - Global Forecast to 2028 Management Decision Market - Global Forecast to 2028 Mass Notification System Market - Global Forecast to 2028 Emotion Detection and Recognition Market - Global Forecast to 2027 Video Content Management System Market - Global Forecast to 2026 About MarketsandMarkets MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. 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. Earlier this year, we made a formal transformation into one of America's best management consulting firms as per a survey conducted by Forbes. The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing. 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Contact: Mr. Aashish Mehra MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: [email protected] Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/managed-services-market.asp Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/managed-services.asp Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/660509/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg SOURCE MarketsandMarkets FORT COLLINS, Colo., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Marketing 360, a technology company that provides business management and marketing software and services for SMBs, today announced a new feature that will allow eligible U.S. registered customers to become Google Guaranteed and run Google Local Service Ads, right from the Marketing 360 platform. Marketing 360 is currently the only marketing platform that offers this feature. There are many benefits of the new in-platform Google Guaranteed verification, including: Simplifies the Google Guarantee verification process for Marketing 360 customers by making it an integrated part of our Ads app. Reduces manual Local Services Ads setup work. Expedites the verification process. Allows Marketing 360 customers to fully manage Local Service Ads from verification to lead management, from the Marketing 360 platform. "Adding this feature to the Marketing 360 platform further enables our customers to leverage the full power of the software to help them grow and manage their business", said Marketing 360 CMO, Jerry Kelly. "Our service-based customers who use, or want to use, Google Local Service Ads now have a way to easily and quickly complete the business verification process and then run their ads directly on the Marketing 360 platform, generating Guaranteed Leads. It couldn't be easier!" To sign up for a Marketing 360 account and start growing your business with Local Services Ads, visit https://www.marketing360.com/signup . Through many tools and integrated apps, Marketing 360 makes it easy for small businesses to manage their business and marketing, all from one place while saving time, money, and tons of manual work. Learn more about Marketing 360 at https://www.marketing360.com/ . About Marketing 360 Marketing 360 is a technology company that provides business management and marketing software and services for SMBs and franchises. The Marketing 360 platform gives SMBs everything they need to manage and grow their business from a singular platform, including the ability to build a professional website, accept and manage payments, manage leads and customers, book appointments, monitor reviews, manage social media, syndicate business listings, manage content marketing, run multi-channel digital advertising campaigns, and more. Marketing 360 was founded in 2009 with the mission of enriching communities by helping small businesses grow, and is headquartered in Fort Collins, Colorado, with offices in Austin, Texas. Learn more about Marketing 360 at https://www.marketing360.com/ . Contact: Farra Lanzer [email protected] 970-541-3284 SOURCE Marketing 360 Partners honored for excellence in appellate and personal injury litigation TYLER, Texas, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The esteemed trial attorneys of Martin Walker PC continue to garner recognition for personal injury and appellate expertise with selection to the 2023 edition of Texas Super Lawyers, a ranking of legal professionals who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. Firm co-founders Reid Martin and Jack Walker earned repeat recognition for excellence in personal injury litigation on behalf of plaintiffs. Both name partners are board certified in personal injury trial law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and focus their practice on medical malpractice, workplace injury and product liability cases. The 2023 edition marks the fourth consecutive honor for Mr. Martin and the fifth for Mr. Walker. "We are extremely proud to be recognized in this way," said Mr. Martin. "Recognition based on peer nominations are always very special, and we are thankful for those in the profession who made this possible and our clients for trusting us with their cases." In addition, trial lawyer Marisa Allen is honored for her esteemed appellate practice. Ms. Allen is board certified in civil appellate law and has a track record of favorable verdicts and settlements on behalf of clients. This year's listing marks the second year to include Ms. Allen. The Martin Walker team is nationally recognized for securing courtroom wins against major companies such as Walmart. The award-winning team has earned consistent accolades from The Best Lawyers in America, Best Law Firms and Lawdragon. The 2023 edition of Texas Super Lawyers is compiled by Thomson Reuters and published in Texas Monthly. Super Lawyers' patented attorney selection process is peer-influenced and research-driven, selecting only the top 5% of attorneys in Texas each year. To view a complete list of 2023 honorees, visit SuperLawyers.com. About Martin Walker PC Martin Walker PC is a Tyler-based law firm with significant trial expertise representing individuals and businesses in high-stakes litigation, including medical malpractice, catastrophic injuries involving 18-wheeler accidents, oilfield injuries, wrongful death and product liability. Media Contact: Alyssa Woulfe 800-559-4534 [email protected] SOURCE Martin Walker PC DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, September 18. Azerbaijan's exports to Tajikistan amounted to $4.062 million from January through August 2023, Trend reports. Data from the State Customs Committee of Azerbaijan reveals that this figure increased by almost 9 percent compared to the same months in 2022 ($3.728 million). However, Azerbaijan's imports from Tajikistan totaled $40,630 during the period under review, marking a 60 percent decrease compared to the corresponding months of the previous year ($100,500). The overall trade turnover between the two countries amounted to $4.103 million from January through August 2023, climbing 7 percent compared to the same period in 2022 ($3.828 million). Azerbaijan's foreign trade turnover grew by 1.12 percent or $392.1 million from January through August 2023, year-on-year, rising from $35.1 billion to $35.5 billion. Exports from Azerbaijan totaled $24.3 billion, which is a $1.89 billion or 7.2-percent decrease year-on-year. Imports in the reporting period increased by $2.2 billion or 25.73 percent year-on-year, reaching about $11.1 billion over the previous $8.8 billion. According to the Statistical Agency of Tajikistan, the country's foreign trade turnover amounted to approximately $4 billion from January through July 2023, down by 3.5 percent compared to the similar months in 2022. Throughout this period, the country maintained trade relations with 111 countries worldwide. The brand update reflects Mercury GSE's delivery of premium service and unrivaled support. SANTA FE SPRINGS, Calif., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercury GSE, a leading supplier of ground support equipment, today announced that the company has launched its new brand initiative. This effort stems from the company's need to elevate its branding to match its mission. The brand update reflects Mercury GSE's promise to deliver premium service and unrivaled support to its partners and customers around the world. It includes a new visual identity and message positioning that encompasses its website, www.MercuryGSE.com , as well as all its equipment and facilities. A Mercury Ground Support Equipment JBT JET AIRE M-60 Air Conditioner/Heating unit prepared for delivery. A Mercury Ground Support Equipment technician affixing the company's new logo decal on a JBT M-60 Air Conditioner/Heating Unit at Mercury's Saginaw, TX facility. A Mercury Ground Support Equipment JBT Commander 15 Cargo Loader at IAH Airport in Houston, TX. "Mercury GSE has been an innovative company for over eighty years. We're proud to supply the newest fleets and fastest support in the industry," said Jason Gendron, CEO of Mercury GSE. "Inspired by our heritage and driven by our vision for the future, this rebranding is a reflection of our unwavering dedication to excellence. The new brand reflects our unchanging commitment to delivering premium service, unrivaled support, and differentiated value that meets the evolving demands of the industry." The Craftsman Agency, Mercury GSE's agency of record, is the creative shop behind the brand transformation. "As the creative team working on Mercury GSE's rebrand, we are thrilled to celebrate this pivotal moment," said Gina Michnowicz from The Craftsman Agency, "While this new identity elevates the company's brand while highlighting its leadership in the industry, it's also a testament to its constant drive to surpass expectations. We are honored to have been chosen as Mercury GSE's creative partner for this transformation and look forward to supporting the company's continued growth." The new branding includes a bold new wingtip logo, striking color palette, and modern typography that convey strength and reliability while emphasizing forward movement and speed. This rebranding, which highlights Mercury GSE's mission to deliver premium service and unrivaled support, has already been rolled out on the company's site and on the tarmac, and the new look was featured last week at the Air Carriers Purchasing Conference (ACPC) in New York. Mercury GSE will also be exhibiting at booth 547 in Las Vegas at the International GSE Expo September 26th-28th. About Mercury GSE At Mercury GSE, we understand the critical role that ground support equipment plays in the industry. As such, we have made it our mission to provide exceptional services and high-performance equipment that meets the specific needs of our clients. Our full-service offering of short-term rentals, leasing, sales, and maintenance provide customers with a range of flexible options. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is unwavering, and our highly skilled and dedicated team works tirelessly to ensure that every piece of equipment in our fleet functions at peak performance levels, delivering reliable and consistent results. All these factors make Mercury GSE a leader in the industry and a trusted partner for clients in need of reliable ground support equipment. Learn more at www.MercuryGSE.com . About The Craftsman Agency The Craftsman Agency is a creative shop that puts craftsmanship at the heart of our projects. Our team brings the focus that comes from experience, the zeal that comes from passion. By partnering with imaginative brands, we've been able to create magical moments that stand the test of timewhether we're working on a new brand identity, an experiential activation, or a social campaign. Bold storytelling that crosses physical and digital boundaries to leave lasting impressions is our sweet spot. And it's all brilliantly executed. To learn more, visit www.TheCraftsmanAgency.com . MEDIA CONTACT: Paul Kersh, Mercury GSE Marketing & Communications Manager (562) 783-8079 [email protected] SOURCE Mercury GSE GOTHENBURG, Sweden, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Minesto, leading ocean energy developer, is for the second time part of the official Swedish business delegation to the United Nation's global climate conference, COP28 in Dubai 30 Nov-12 Dec 2023. The road to COP28 starts today at Climate Week New York, where leading companies, academia and public sector are gathering in New York in conjunction with the opening of UN's General Assembly. Minesto's CEO Dr Martin Edlund in panel session at Road to COP28 U.S, 19 Sept, New York: Initiated by Business Sweden, Consulate General of Sweden, New York and Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce, New York, the high-level meeting Road to COP28 U.S will take place in New York 19 September. Minesto's CEO Dr Martin Edlund will together with Scania and SSAB take part in the panel discussion 'Enabling a zero-emission energy and fossil free transportation system.' The event is live streamed. Dr Martin Edlund is participating 19 September at 15.40-16.00 EDT: https://www.wedonthavetime.org/events/accelerating-nycs-net-zero-journey Minesto's technology showcased in exhibition at Ingka Group Action Speaks Summit, 18-24 September, New York: During Climate Week New York, Minesto's technology will be showcased in an exhibition at the Ingka Group Action Speaks Summit. Minesto is one of the companies selected by Ingka Group to showcase scalable solutions to tackle climate change. Learn more about Ingka Group Action Speaks & Exhibition: https://www.ingka.com/news/ingka-group-to-host-action-speaks-summit-during-climate-week-nyc/ Pictures from the exhibition will be published shortly. Learn more about Climate Week New York: https://www.climateweeknyc.org/ Learn more about COP28: https://www.cop28.com/en/cop28-presidency For additional information, please contact Cecilia Sernhage, Chief Communications Officer +46 735 23 71 58 [email protected] The following files are available for download: https://mb.cision.com/Main/14621/3836844/2300069.pdf Press release SOURCE Minesto AB MMNA and dealer partners dedication to world-class customer service results in climb from 17th to first among mass-market brands in less than four years FRANKLIN, Tenn., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- After finishing second in the mass-market group in 2022, Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) took to the top step for the first time in Reputation's annual 2023 Automotive Reputation Report, ranking first among 19 mass-market auto brands. The achievement marks the culmination of a dedicated effort by MMNA and its more than 320 U.S. dealer partners to provide a world-class customer experience at every touchpoint. Reputation's report evaluates customer experience at 35,000 automotive OEM brands, dealer groups, and dealerships across the United States, Canada, and Europe. MMNA and dealer partners dedication to world-class customer service results in climb from 17th to first among mass-market brands in less than four years Mitsubishi's top ranking is the culmination of a steep four-year rise that saw the brand climb from 17th among 19 non-luxury automotive brands in 2020. Mitsubishi was the most improved brand in the study in 2021, posting a 58-point year-over-year improvement and ranking fourth, and the brand placed second in 2022. As the Reputation Report takes into consideration both sales and service experiences, this year's performance underscores the commitment of every Mitsubishi Motors dealer partner's efforts, through transparency and honesty. "As Mitsubishi Motors charts its future, our team knows that the best way to ensure success is through the hearts of our customers, perfecting every touchpoint in their ownership journey with us, whether in sales or service. This customer experience is the number one priority at Mitsubishi Motors and guides every decision we make," said Mark Chaffin, Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., president and CEO. Chaffin continued, "Our finishing position as the number-one brand in the mass-market group of the 2023 Reputation Automotive Report is the result of many years of commitment and hard work by everyone throughout our dealer-partner network, in our U.S. and Japanese headquarters, and across our regional teams around the U.S. I simply could not be more proud to see Mitsubishi Motors at the very top of one of the most influential customer satisfaction indexes in the auto industry, besting our competition and reinforcing the confidence our owners have in us." Paralleling Mitsubishi's rise in the Reputation study, the brand refreshed its model line, launching its award-winning and sales-record-setting Outlander and Outlander Plug-in Hybrid models. At the same time, Mitsubishi initiated its Visual Identity Program to enhance the dealership facilities and experience for customers through a high-quality retail environment. This performance in the Reputation study comes on the heels of the brand's number one finish in the mass-market category in the most recent JD Power Customer Satisfaction Index, reinforcing the depth of commitment the brand's dealer partners have in exceeding their customers' expectations at every turn. "We wholeheartedly congratulate Mitsubishi on their number-one ranking in the mass-market category of our 2023 Automotive Reputation Report," says Joe Fuca, CEO of Reputation. "A car is one of the most significant, highly emotional purchases many consumers make, which means their buying experience is more important than ever. With 74% of consumers insisting on a four-star rating before they even consider a specific automotive brand, building trust through listening to and acting on customer feedback is what sets apart leaders like Mitsubishi." The report from Reputation analyzed customer feedback from dealerships to gauge overall sentiment and then assigned brands, dealer groups, and dealerships a "Reputation Score" metric. Graded on a 1,000-point scale, the score encompasses the voice of the customer and highlights reputation management as a key element of a dealership's consumer experience strategy. For more information on MMNA, visit MitsubishiCars.com. ABOUT MITSUBISHI MOTORS NORTH AMERICA, INC. Through a network of approximately 330 dealer partners across the United States, Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is responsible for the sales, marketing and customer service of Mitsubishi Motors vehicles in the U.S. In its recently announced Midterm Plan "Challenge 2025" MMNA's parent company Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) has committed to accelerating its efforts toward a sustainable carbon-neutral future, setting goals of 40 percent reduction in vehicle CO2 emissions and 50 percent reduction in operational CO2 emissions by 2030. Additionally, MMC has set targets for global sales of electrified vehicles at 50 percent by 2030 and 100 percent by 2035, leveraging a blend of plug-in hybrids (PHEV), hybrids (HEV) and pure electrics (BEV). MMNA has its headquarters in Franklin, Tennessee, as well as corporate operations in California, Georgia, Michigan, New Jersey, Texas, and Florida. For more information on Mitsubishi vehicles, please visit media.mitsubishicars.com . Contact Jeremy Barnes Senior Director, Communications and Events [email protected] Mobile: 714-296-1402 SOURCE Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. New line changes the rules with designer style that feels like activewear SAN ANTONIO, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fifth-generation West Texas rancher turned clothing designer Lee Evans Lee launches her debut Mrs Momma Bear Workwear fashion brand featuring elegant-elevated separates that wear like activewear, available now online and at sloan/hall Houston and San Antonio. The brand, named after Lee's son's affectionate nickname for her "Momma Bear" features 20 pieces in its debut collection, including fashion-forward jumpsuits, blazers, suits and pants that can be mixed and matched, ranging in price from $350 to $1,350. Mrs Momma Bear Workwear's debut collection (from left to right): Milano Jumpsuit, Going Somewhere Jumpsuit, Dancing Anyone Jumpsuit and I Do Jumpsuit Mrs Momma Bear Workwear's debut collection (from left to right): Enza Marie Top and Pant, Tux All Day Two-Piece Tuxedo, Mad Hatter Suit and Tea Time Suit Mrs Momma Bear is rooted in Lee's personal experiences and love of textiles and design and is driven by the scarcity of glamorous apparel that supports her busy lifestyle. In 2020, Lee turned her energy into creating what would soon become Mrs Momma Bear. "As a mom, I'm running around all day long, from drop-off to meetings to working out to dinner and more. I designed Mrs Momma Bear for all the mommas, whether they are actual moms or not, to be able to wear a comfortable brand from day to night," said Lee. "The clothes are made to be fashion-forward and glamorous without compromising comfort, enabling women to feel beautiful throughout their entire day." Each piece contains nylon, Lycra and spandex that provide extraordinary comfort and easy care. The fit is created with an intuitive and cohesive 3D garment design software, CLO, that brings Lee's vision of each piece of clothing to life. To view the collection, visit www.mrsmommabear.com or follow @mrsmommabearworkwear on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. About Mrs Momma Bear Workwear Mrs Momma Bear Workwear is an innovative, San Antonio-based workwear brand founded in 2023 by fifth-generation Texas rancher Lee Evans Lee. Mrs Momma Bear redefines fashion with activewear comfort and designer style, making it effortless to transition from work to play. Designed to be durable and functional, these fashion-forward pieces empower individuals to tackle their busy lives without compromising elegance or glamor. Mrs Momma Bear is now available online at mrsmommabear.com or at lifestyle boutique sloan/hall Houston and San Antonio. MEDIA CONTACT: Ashley Lennington, SPM Communications [email protected] 214-379-7000 SOURCE Mrs Momma Bear Workwear Conversion Logix brings on real estate technology expert CJ Edmonds to bridge the gap between AI and people-first campaign management. AUSTIN, Texas, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Conversion Logix announced today that real estate technology leader CJ Edmonds will be joining the company as its next chief revenue officer. With 25+ years of experience in SaaS company management and 13+ years of experience in real estate marketing and technology services, CJ is poised to bring deep expertise to Conversion Logix and their elite portfolio of property management clientele. Conversion Logix, Announces CJ Edmonds as New CRO "We are thrilled to welcome CJ to our organization as our new Chief Revenue Officer. With decades of management experience in SaaS-based emerging technology companies, CJ brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success in leading innovative and customer-centric teams. At Conversion Logix, our clients rely on us to keep them on the cutting edge of the industry. CJ's deep industry expertise and commitment to delivering a high-touch consultative experience for clients makes him a perfect fit.," states Conversion Logix President and COO Andrew Cederlind. One of the biggest waves hitting both the marketing and real estate industry is the emergence of AI. Conversion Logix has uniquely positioned itself to focus on Hybrid Intelligence, an approach to AI that combines the unique expertise of humans with the scalable and instantaneous nature of AI to keep their clients at the forefront of the industry. "I was very impressed with Conversion Logix's incorporation of Hybrid Intelligence into their service offering," says Edmonds. "Conversion Logix harnesses the value of AI and pairs it with their real estate marketing expertise to deliver qualified leads that become quality residents." The company has been developing an AI recommendation engine to provide their clients with campaign insights that leverage their expansive database of multifamily and senior living advertising campaigns and the over 1+ million customer journeys generated from their lead generation platform, The Conversion Cloud. When we asked CJ what excites him most about joining the company, he said, "Conversion Logix is a success because of its team of experts and their relationships with their clients. They are not racing to optimize technology and margins at the expense of servicing their clients." "Unlike many technology companies in the industry, they aren't over-leveraged with debt, they don't have to answer to venture capital and private equity demands and put profit and sales over people. They've remained one of the fastest-growing marketing companies in the nation for nearly a decade and poured those resources back into the company to deliver the highest caliber of service to their client base. I think this approach is a recipe for success, and am excited to take this already successful company to the next level." About Conversion Logix Conversion Logix, LLC provides digital marketing services and lead generation software to industry leaders in the multifamily housing, senior living, automotive, and small business markets. Our hybrid intelligence platform and customer-first approach enable our clients to meet the demands of their business with speed and agility. Conversion Logix has been ranked on the Inc. 5000 seven years in a row and listed in Austin Business Journal's Fast 50 Growing Companies. Conversion Logix is a Premier Google Partner, a Facebook Business Partner, and developed The Conversion Cloud, a lead generation software suite that's delivered over one million leads to businesses. Learn how Conversion Logix is transforming marketing at conversionlogix.com. This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com. For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com. SOURCE Conversion Logix HOUSTON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Skyview Flats (www.skyviewflats.com) is a next generation apartment complex with standout features that are not seen in comparable communities. Every unit has black stainless-steel appliances and built-in desks with drawers along with overhead cabinets. Every first-floor unit has a private yard for your beloved pets. Skyview also boasts excellent technology. Fiber optic internet allows residents access to stable and fast internet, not only in their unit but across the entire community-wide wireless network. Through an app on their phone, residents can lock/unlock their door, manage thermostat, monitor appliances, and open gates. Also, all garages are equipped for electric car charging. This difference is being very well received. Skyview Flats located in west Houston near the Grand Parkway is 312 units with average rents of $1.76 psf and leasing at a velocity of 30 units per month with no concessions. Skyview Flats. Next generation apartments. "With the development of Skyview Flats, our goal was to create a home for our residents that addresses their post-pandemic needs and set our property apart from more traditional multifamily communities." - Jim Wood, President Ascension is a vertically integrated investment, development, construction, and management firm that specializes in realizing the economic potential of multifamily assets. Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Houston, Ascension has acquired/renovated or developed over 9,000 multifamily units across Texas. Please send any questions to [email protected] or visit our website www.ascensioncre.com. SOURCE Ascension Multifamily HOUSTON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Acclaimed trial lawyers Amir Alavi and Demetrios Anaipakos from Houston's Alavi Anaipakos have earned selections on the 2023 Texas Super Lawyers list in recognition of their outstanding work in business and intellectual property litigation. This marks Mr. Anaipakos' 20th year and Mr. Alavi's 19th year on the annual list of outstanding Texas attorneys . In addition to their individual Super Lawyers recognitions, both lawyers were named among the Top 100 attorneys in Houston. Published by Thomson Reuters, the Super Lawyers list is based on nominations submitted by attorneys throughout Texas who practice in the same areas of law as the eventual honorees. The final list is determined by independent research conducted by the publication's editors and further evaluation by a select group of the state's top lawyers. No more than 5 percent of Texas attorneys are chosen each year. This recognition comes on the heels of other significant honors for Mr. Alavi and Mr. Anaipakos from such prestigious ranking organizations as Chambers USA , IAM Patent 1000 , and Best Lawyers in America . "Demetrios and I are honored to be included on the 2024 Super Lawyers list," says Mr. Alavi. "We're committed to being the best in the business and pleased to see that the profession is recognizing our expertise." Earlier this year, Alavi Anaipakos was ranked as one of the country's top law firms for intellectual property disputes in the exclusive 2023 Chambers USA list. Mr. Alavi and Mr. Anaipakos earned individual rankings for their expertise in intellectual property and patent disputes. A month later, four firm attorneys were ranked in the IAM Patent 1000 ranking of the country's leading patent lawyers. The publishers describe Alavi Anaipakos as "valued for its multi-front litigation capabilities, successful global patent protection strategies and exceptional client service." Houston-based Alavi Anaipakos is home to high-stakes trial lawyers known for solving complex problems. The firm's attorneys have handled some of the world's largest patent infringement disputes and significant commercial cases across various industries, from oil and gas, energy, software, high-tech, financial services, and beyond. SOURCE Alavi Anaipakos PLLC WILMINGTON, Del., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Nemours Children's Health announces the appointment of Matthew M. Davis, MD, MAPP, as Executive Vice-President, Enterprise Physician-in-Chief and Chief Scientific Officer. Beginning on November 1, Dr. Davis will oversee all clinical and research activities and growth across Nemours Children's Health, one of the largest integrated pediatric healthcare systems in the nation with more than 70 locations. He will also work to ensure that education, training, and community engagement are fully integrated within clinical and research efforts. Matthew M. Davis, MD "Dr. Davis is one of America's most innovative and eminent thought leaders in academic pediatrics," said R. Lawrence Moss, MD, FAAP, President and CEO of Nemours Children's Health. "He will grow and lead the intersection of Nemours Children's clinical and research efforts to improve the health of all children and champion our commitment to changing children's health for good." Dr. Davis currently serves as the Chair of the Department of Pediatrics and Executive Vice-President and Chief of Community Health Transformation at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago and Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. In these roles, Dr. Davis worked with teams across Lurie Children's to bring together community-engaged activities under one organizational structure, which became the Patrick M. Magoon Institute for Healthy Communities. In addition, Dr. Davis oversaw the institution's vital community-based efforts with organizations such as West Side United, Malcolm X City College, and the Chicago Department of Public Health to serve children, adolescents, and their families in their neighborhoods. As Chair of Pediatrics, Dr. Davis facilitated the formation and growth of Lurie Children's Complex Care Program that serves the multi-faceted needs of children with medical complexity. Prioritizing equity, diversity, and inclusion, he promoted the recruitment and retention of progressively more diverse trainees and faculty. "I am honored to join Nemours Children's Health as the new Physician-in-Chief and Chief Scientific Officer across the Delaware Valley, North Florida, and Central Florida regions," said Dr. Davis. "I look forward to continuing my efforts to improve children's health through a community-connected approach to patient care, research, education and advocacy." Dr. Davis also served as Division Head of Advanced General Pediatrics and Primary Care; Director of the Mary Ann & J. Milburn Smith Child Health Research, Outreach, and Advocacy Center; and President and Chief Research Officer in the Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute. He was also Co-Deputy Director of the Northwestern University Institute for Innovations in Developmental Sciences; Director of the Fellowship Program in Health Services and Population Health Research; and Associate Medical Director for Accountable Care of the Lurie Children's Pediatric Partners Clinically Integrated Network. Dr. Davis has published numerous high-impact journal articles and has been the recipient of multiple grants and awards. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from Swarthmore College, his Medical Degree from Harvard Medical School, and his Master of Arts in Public Policy from the University of Chicago. About Nemours Children's Health Nemours Children's Health is one of the nation's largest multistate pediatric health systems, which includes two free-standing children's hospitals and a network of more than 70 primary and specialty care practices. Nemours Children's seeks to transform the health of children by adopting a holistic health model that utilizes innovative, safe, and high-quality care, while also caring for the health of the whole child beyond medicine. Nemours Children's also powers the world's most-visited website for information on the health of children and teens, Nemours KidsHealth.org. The Nemours Foundation, established through the legacy and philanthropy of Alfred I. duPont, provides pediatric clinical care, research, education, advocacy, and prevention programs to the children, families and communities it serves. For more information, visit Nemours.org SOURCE The Nemours Foundation Women's Weekend Speakers Include Dr. Jamal Bryant, Dr. Heavenly Kimes, Nona Jones, Tasha Cobbs Leonard and more on September 28 30 ATLANTA, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Grammy award-winning artist Erica Campbell, of Mary Mary, is kicking off a week of women empowerment with a free, live concert on Sept. 26 at 7:30 p.m. at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, located at 6400 Woodrow Rd. in Stonecrest. The Reinvigorate women's series will culminate with a weekend of inspiring, enlightening and uplifting events featuring renowned speaker Nona Jones, award-winning artist Tasha Cobb Leonard, Bravo's Married to Medicine's Dr. Heavenly Kimes and more Sept. 28 through Sept. 30. Register for the Reinvigorate Women's Weekend events by visiting newbirth.org and clicking the Reinvigorate Women's Weekend tab. Reinvigorate Womens Week Live Concert Featuring Erica Campbell "Reinvigorate recognizes the universal burden that so many women carry as mothers, leaders, business owners, spouses and change makers. Our goal is to not only empower thousands of women through this life-changing weekend of activities but to propel them into who God has called them to be while reinvigorating their minds and spirits through women-led intensive sessions that will empower them to tackle issues of health, career, love, loss and life," said New Birth Senior Pastor Dr. Jamal Bryant. "This is an extraordinary lineup of the most prolific voices of our time. Come with an expectation to be changed, challenged and championed at the Reinvigorate Women's Weekend." Sept. 26th Erica Campbell Live Concert Mary Mary's Erica Campbell will host a free concert at New Birth on Sept. 26 beginning at 7:30 p.m. The live event will feature songs from her new album "I Love You" officially releasing this month. No registration is required. Sept. 28th Women's Power Luncheon International preacher and author Nona Jones will serve as the keynote speaker at the Women's Power Luncheon. The luncheon will also celebrate the achievements of four distinguished women who continue to inspire and impact people both locally and around the globe through their noted achievements and contributions. The Reinvigorate Women's Power Luncheon honorees include leading women's health advocate Dr. Julianne Birt, Slutty Vegan restauranteur Pinky Cole, syndicated radio personality Nina Brown and Goodr Founder Jasmine Crowe-Houston. The event, taking place at the Four Seasons Hotel at noon on Sept. 28, has limited seating. Registration through the event link is required. "Reinvigorate Women's Weekend is not just a moment for women to connect with each other but a time for us to celebrate some of the most incredible leaders around," said New Birth Pastor, Dr. Karri Turner. "Historically, women's contributions have gone unacknowledged. We are taking an opportunity to celebrate four female trailblazers who have balanced life, family, successful careers and their respective callings in such dynamic ways. We are taking this opportunity during our Women's Power Luncheon to shine the light on pioneers, innovators and catalysts who have inspired generations through their life's work." Sept. 29th Women's Weekend: Worship Encounter Internationally acclaimed and Grammy award-winning gospel recording artist Tasha Cobb Leonard and Grammy-nominated Maranda Curtis will headline the Reinvigorate Women's Weekend events taking place at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, located at 6400 Woodrow Rd. in Stonecrest, on Sept 29, at 7:30 p.m. This is a free event with registration. Sept. 30th Women's Day Intensive The weekend of activities concludes with a series of empowerment sessions featuring Dr. Heavenly Kimes, Brandi Harvey, Dr. Robin Barrett, Dr. Annie Lois Johnson, Love McPherson, and more who will discuss entrepreneurship, home ownership, relationships, ministry, career, health and wellness. The Women's Day Intensive also offers a special session dedicated for teen girls and a special homeownership program led by Dr. Annie Lois Johnson with United Security Financial Corp. All Women's Day Intensive sessions take place at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, located at 6400 Woodrow Rd. in Stonecrest, on Sept 30, at 10 a.m. This is a free event with registration. Application and pre-event resources for the homeownership program are located at newbirth.org. Additional Reinvigorate Information For more information, visit newbirth.org and click the Reinvigorate tab for additional event details and registration information. Both the Women's Day Intensive and Worship Encounter are free. Seating for the Women's Power Luncheon is limited. MEDIA CONTACT: Media interested in covering this event must be credentialed. All interested outlets should email [email protected]. SOURCE New Birth Missionary Baptist Church DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, September 18. Expansion of correspondent relations through the signing of a bilateral cooperation agreement was discussed between the representatives of Amonatbank, the State Savings Bank of Tajikistan, and Uzbekistans Xalq Bank, Trend reports. The discussions took place between the Chairman of the Board of Amonatbank Sirojiddin Ikromi and Dilshod Kutliev, Xalq Banks Deputy Chairman of the Board in Tajikistan's Dushanbe. It was noted that this agreement aims to strengthen foreign currency operations and payments between the banks. During the meeting, various aspects of initiating bilateral cooperation in different banking areas were explored, along with prospects for its development. Additionally, topics such as finding new areas for collaboration between the banks, sharing experiences in various sectors, opening correspondent accounts, creating a joint investment climate, and other banking-related matters were discussed. Tajikistans Amonatbank has an extensive service network that includes 4 regional branches, along with 71 districts branches. MALVERN, Pa., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- David Moskowitz, a veteran trial lawyer and husband of a 2020 elector, announced today the publication of a new book that is the first to delve into the indictments of former President Trump over the Jan. 6 riot and the RICO case in Georgia. Moskowitz writes based on his legal experience and front row seat to the election and efforts by Trump and his allies to overturn the race. The book is "The Judge and the President: Stealing the 2020 Election (Huge Jam Publishing, September 8, 2023) "As a lawyer, I am fascinated by the indictments of Donald Trump and his allies. These cases will truly be trials of the century," said Moskowitz, who makes several predictions. Among those: That the federal trial will take six-to-eight weeks. If Trump is convicted, he will appeal to the Court of Appeals. If he loses, he will petition SCOTUS for review with chances of success at under 50%. That the Georgia trial will take six-to-nine months. If Trump is convicted, he will appeal. If the Georgia Supreme Court confirms the conviction, Trump will petition SCOTUS with chances of success at under 15%. That Sidney Powell, one of Trump's lawyers charged in Georgia, will plead guilty or be convicted. That the federal case won't conclude before the 2024 election and the Georgia case won't have a similar hiatus, making Trump's risk greater. Endorsements "Masterful revealing the strength and intricacy of the case against Trump and his co-conspirators. -- Villanova Law School Professor Michelle Dempsey "A must read, even if you are not interested in politics or the law." attorney Joseph E. Brion About the Author David Moskowitz practiced law for 40-plus years, developed real estate, and was a pharmaceutical CEO. He received a B.A. from Penn State, an LL.B. from Villanova Law School and a D.Phil from Oxford. For more information: David H. Moskowitz | Thecreativepositivist The Judge and the President: Stealing the 2020 Election (The Judge and the Creative Positivist): Moskowitz, David H.: 9781916604117: Amazon.com: Books Publication Information The Judge and the President: Stealing the 2020 Election September 8, 2023 Huge Jam Publishing Kindle: $5.99; ASIN: B0CGMXCD6C Paperback/Hardcover: $16.99/$25, 337 pages; ISBN: 978-1-916604-11-7 and ISBN: 978-1-916604-12-4 PR Contact: Andrew Blum, AJB Communications 917-783-1680, [email protected] SOURCE David Moskowitz WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Governance Action Hub, a new initiative by Results for Development (R4D), will expand the frontiers of governance reform by engaging diverse stakeholders in collective actions. It will focus on three types of governance challenges: persistent, like the misuse of extractive revenue in local and social development; emerging, like the urgent need for a just energy transition to respond to climate change; and underlying, like the undue influence of private interests over policies. New Initiative Supports Citizen Action to Reduce Corruption in Resource-Rich Countries New Initiative Supports Citizen Action to Reduce Corruption in Resource-Rich Countries The Hub will also create a global network including new voices and perspectives in the governance space and promoting collaboration between local and global action as well as greater audacity in the pursuit of much needed governance reforms. "In the governance and anticorruption space, there is general agreement on the importance of collective action to achieve results; but less consensus on how to make it work, how to turn it into effective coalitions that achieve common goals despite different views among actors, and as importantly, sustain change despite challenging contexts," said Mario G. Picon , Director of the Action Hub. "The Governance Action Hub reflects R4D's mission to position change agents at the forefront of action," said Gina Lagomarsino , CEO of R4D. "It focuses on local stakeholder needs and approaches problem-solving with a systems lens. By building local alliances among actors with different agendas, from civil society, private sector and the state, and by implementing new, local ideas, the Governance Action Hub fosters inclusivity and agency of local voices." The new initiative builds on R4D's prior governance and anticorruption work and convenes sectoral and practice expertise in resource-rich countries. For questions, contact Supriya Sadagopan, 202.470.5711 or [email protected]. About Results for Development (R4D) R4D is a non-profit global development partner that collaborates with change agents supporting them as they navigate complex change processes to achieve large-scale, equitable outcomes in health, education and nutrition. R4D works with country leaders to diagnose challenges, co-create, innovate and implement solutions built on evidence and diverse stakeholder input, and engage in learning to adapt, iterate and improve. We also strengthen global, regional and country ecosystems to support country leaders with expertise, evidence and innovations. R4D helps country leaders solve their immediate challenges today, while also strengthening systems and institutions to address tomorrow's challenges. And we share what we learn so others can achieve results for development too. www.R4D.org SOURCE Results for Development (R4D) The Company is ceasing operating activities at Numinus Bioscience its non-revenue producing research lab, and is consolidating clinic operations in certain regions to enhance company performance and improve the overall client experience. Collectively, these activities are expected to save nearly C$1 million of annualized cash expenses, which will improve company margins and support its path to profitability. VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Numinus Wellness Inc. ("Numinus" or the "Company") (TSX: NUMI) (OTCQX: NUMIF), a mental health care company advancing innovative treatments and safe, evidence-based psychedelic-assisted therapies today announced a focus on positive cash flow generating businesses, with several actions taken to reduce its cash expenses. These actions include ceasing operating activities at Numinus Bioscience, its non-revenue producing research lab, consolidating two wellness clinics into nearby locations to improve margins and cash flow, and not renewing leases for two research clinics in Canada. "I want to personally thank all Numinus Bioscience staff who made a tremendous contribution not only to Numinus, but to early and recent developments in our industry," said Payton Nyquvest, Founder and CEO. "Their impact has been immeasurable; however, our focus on building a sustainable, cash flow positive business is paramount to our long-term success and proving the resiliency and growth potential of our operating model." All operations at Numinus Bioscience and supporting functions will be wound down in the coming weeks in an orderly fashion; however, the company will remain as a legal entity under Numinus Wellness Inc., ensuring all intellectual property, patents and regulatory licenses for Numinus will be retained by the Company. Sharan Sidhu, Vice President, Scientific Research and Innovation, will remain at Numinus, and will continue to provide valued guidance on clinical trial and regulatory activities. Numinus' Peoria wellness clinic location (in Greater Phoenix), which was not producing positive cash flow, is being consolidated into Numinus' nearby Phoenix clinic location at 2400 West Dunlap Avenue a strategy through which Numinus expects to retain all clients and most practitioners, while reducing cash expenses by improving clinic space utilization. Numinus has also relocated its clinic in Orem, Utah, to American Fork. Additionally, Numinus will not renew the leases on its research clinic locations in Montreal and Vancouver, Canada. Ultimately, these changes are expected to enhance the service levels and client experience throughout the remaining clinics. Following these changes, Numinus will operate 11 wellness clinic locations and three clinical research sites operated by Cedar Clinical Research. Collectively, these activities are expected to reduce the Company's annualized cash expenses by C$1 million, with little impact to revenue producing operations. Numinus believes these actions will meaningfully improve its margins and help the Company accelerate its path to positive cash flow and profitability. About Numinus Numinus Wellness Inc. (TSX: NUMI) helps people to heal and be well through the development and delivery of innovative mental health care and access to safe, evidence-based psychedelic-assisted therapies. The Numinus model - including psychedelic production, research and clinic care - is at the forefront of a transformation aimed at healing rather than managing symptoms for depression, anxiety, trauma, pain and substance use. At Numinus, we are leading the integration of psychedelic-assisted therapies into mainstream clinical practice and building the foundation for a healthier society. Learn more at www.numinus.com and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Forward-looking statements Statements and other information contained in this press release about anticipated future events constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect" and "intend" and statements that an event "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements, including the effect of cost containment measures on Numinus business and financial position; changes to cash burn rate, expenses, corporate programs or priorities, or unanticipated costs affecting cash runway or the pathway to positive cashflow or profitability, and other risks that are set forth in our annual information form dated December 12, 2022 and available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and opinions of management at the date the statements are made. Numinus does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements even if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by applicable laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. SOURCE Numinus Wellness Inc. Latest innovations make it easier for customers to build and scale trust, surface and mitigate risks, collaborate across data siloes, and go beyond compliance NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today during TrustWeek, OneTrust, the market-defining leader for trust intelligence, unveiled innovations to help organizations manage the complexity of their trust programs, better understand their data to activate and use it, be more resilient against emerging threats, and unlock productivity when navigating compliance. These innovations include new capabilities across OneTrust's Trust Intelligence Platform and four clouds: Privacy & Data Governance, GRC & Security Assurance, Ethics & Compliance, and ESG & Sustainability. "With the increase of importance in first-party data and use of AI, trust has quickly become the ultimate enabler for innovation," said Blake Brannon, Chief Product and Strategy Officer at OneTrust. "Every innovation you deliver as a business, whether it's digital or operational, requires trust. At OneTrust, we are building the solutions that enable our customers to transform siloed compliance initiatives into world-class, coordinated trust programs." OneTrust's Trust Intelligence Platform helps companies build and scale trust, surface and mitigate risks, collaborate across data siloes, and go beyond compliance. According to IDC1, "OneTrust created a trust platform that not only enables better privacy compliance outcomes for its clients but manages other types of risk." OneTrust's latest innovations include: Responsible AI AI Governance: Responsible AI starts with visibility into AI systems, their foundational models, and the datasets used for training. OneTrust AI Governance helps organizations govern AI and mitigate risk across the business. They can discover where AI and ML are being used, built, or procured, and evaluate the risks to demonstrate trust and compliance with global requirements. Maintain an inventory of AI technology across the business. Assess AI for bias, fairness, and transparency against global laws and frameworks. Evaluate use cases, surface risks, and govern every phase of AI development. Privacy and Consent Localized Consent Action: Enterprises need scalable and flexible solutions to collect first-party data from global audiences and meet regional compliance requirements. Now, companies can leverage user location to deliver dynamic experiences while enforcing consent in downstream systems. Automate user-tailored engagement and trigger compliance requirements, like double opt-in or location-driven marketing, based on location. Enterprises need scalable and flexible solutions to collect first-party data from global audiences and meet regional compliance requirements. Now, companies can leverage user location to deliver dynamic experiences while enforcing consent in downstream systems. Automate user-tailored engagement and trigger compliance requirements, like double opt-in or location-driven marketing, based on location. Consent Support for TCF2.2, GPP, and Google: OneTrust's CMP is now Google certified and provides support for IAB TCF 2.2 and GPP for multiple US states. This allows customers to protect ad monetization and deliver consent-based ads by streamlining the collection and transmission of consent signals from sites and apps downstream to ad tech providers. Data Discovery and Governance Data Catalog Integration: Now, customers can seamlessly integrate OneTrust's leading data discovery and classification into existing data catalogs. Enrich data catalogs by automatically synchronizing data, classifications, and regulatory intelligence from OneTrust into data catalogs. Continue using system-of-record for data cataloging while adding industry-leading data insights from OneTrust. Now, customers can seamlessly integrate OneTrust's leading data discovery and classification into existing data catalogs. Enrich data catalogs by automatically synchronizing data, classifications, and regulatory intelligence from OneTrust into data catalogs. Continue using system-of-record for data cataloging while adding industry-leading data insights from OneTrust. Access Insights Dashboards: OneTrust is making it easier for companies to understand what sensitive data risk they have due to inadequate access permissions on sensitive data sets. This allows quick identification of data-related risks present across an organization's data ecosystem. OneTrust is making it easier for companies to understand what sensitive data risk they have due to inadequate access permissions on sensitive data sets. This allows quick identification of data-related risks present across an organization's data ecosystem. Data Policy Enforcement: In order to reduce data risk and ensure compliance, companies need the tools to build policies and automate mitigating actions. Now, customers can configure new data policies to identify data in violation of data protection and retention policies. Review, triage, and share the policy violations for remediation in the source system. Rescan the violations to validate that remediation efforts were successful. Technology and Enterprise Risk and Compliance Compliance Automation: Compliance professionals are overloaded managing various frameworks and associated requirements across sprawling operations. OneTrust enables organizations to centrally manage compliance initiatives, scope them based on requirements, and leverage in-depth guidance on more than 30 standards and frameworks, powered by OneTrust's regulatory intelligence. Teams can automate evidence collection, assess the status of controls, identify gaps, and generate action plans. Test once, comply many with OneTrust's proprietary shared evidence framework to seamlessly map evidence across multiple frameworks. Compliance professionals are overloaded managing various frameworks and associated requirements across sprawling operations. OneTrust enables organizations to centrally manage compliance initiatives, scope them based on requirements, and leverage in-depth guidance on more than 30 standards and frameworks, powered by OneTrust's regulatory intelligence. Teams can automate evidence collection, assess the status of controls, identify gaps, and generate action plans. Test once, comply many with OneTrust's proprietary shared evidence framework to seamlessly map evidence across multiple frameworks. Enterprise Risk Management: As organizations grow, they are challenged in managing emerging risks in the context of increasingly complex geography and product portfolios. Now, customers can link their Enterprise and Business risks across OneTrust to establish an effective Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) program. Identify risk against business objectives to effectively weigh business opportunities, build a dynamic risk taxonomy to better understand total impact, and define risk appetite to enable effective decision making for downstream risk owners. Third-Party Risk Management Third-Party Risk Exchange Enhanced Data Coverage: The OneTrust Third-Party Risk Exchange has expanded access to third-party risk ratings and critical firmographic information to streamline third-party risk evaluations, monitor for new threats, and trigger automated workflows when new risks arise. Add immediate insights about third parties by connecting evergreen risk ratings on over 125,000 third parties to existing inventory. Stay on top of data breaches across the third-party ecosystem with a verified data-breach newsfeed from HackNotice. Evaluate the financial health and resilience of third parties with FHR ratings from RapidRatings. The OneTrust Third-Party Risk Exchange has expanded access to third-party risk ratings and critical firmographic information to streamline third-party risk evaluations, monitor for new threats, and trigger automated workflows when new risks arise. Add immediate insights about third parties by connecting evergreen risk ratings on over 125,000 third parties to existing inventory. Stay on top of data breaches across the third-party ecosystem with a verified data-breach newsfeed from HackNotice. Evaluate the financial health and resilience of third parties with FHR ratings from RapidRatings. Enhanced Third-Party Due Diligence: Gather deeper insights about higher risk third parties with the ability to order Enhanced Due Diligence reports directly in the OneTrust platform. Audit-ready and research-based risk evaluation reports allow organizations to accelerate decision making and apply a risk-based approach to third-party due diligence. Platform Enhancements to Build and Scale Trust Programs Platform Search: Customers can pinpoint records in less time by searching across the entire OneTrust platform without specifying a module. View a precise list of records with advanced search, sort, and filtering capabilities. Customers can pinpoint records in less time by searching across the entire OneTrust platform without specifying a module. View a precise list of records with advanced search, sort, and filtering capabilities. Workspaces: Workspaces simplifies end-user navigation, making it easier to locate the desired module and more efficiently move between related modules. New capabilities include the segmentation of data within specified workspaces and tailored workspaces designed for specific use cases. Workspaces simplifies end-user navigation, making it easier to locate the desired module and more efficiently move between related modules. New capabilities include the segmentation of data within specified workspaces and tailored workspaces designed for specific use cases. Enhanced Insights Dashboards: Improved out-of-the-box dashboards and question-and-answer-driven widgets enable customers to uncover new and meaningful program insights, track program success, and identify bottlenecks. Track KPIs and action items with default dashboards, as well as manage and monitor progress on key program activities with detailed reporting on tasks. To learn more about OneTrust's latest innovations helping organizations enable trust by design, visit https://onetrust.com/release/fall-2023 1IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Data Privacy Compliance Software 2023 Vendor Assessment (doc #US49841923, September 2023) About OneTrust OneTrust is the trust intelligence cloud platform organizations use to transform trust from an abstract concept into a measurable competitive advantage. Organizations globally use OneTrust to enable the responsible use of data while protecting the privacy rights of individuals, implement and report on their cyber security program, make their social impact goals a reality, and create a speak up culture of trust. Over 14,000 customers use OneTrust's technology, including half of the Global 2,000. OneTrust currently ranks #21 on the Forbes Cloud 100 list of top private cloud companies in the world and employs over 2,000 people in regions across North America, South America, Asia, Europe, and Australia. Media Contact Ainslee Shea +1 (404) 855-0803 [email protected] SOURCE OneTrust HOUSTON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A four-year legal battle over sexual stimulation device technology for women has led to a federal-court jury verdict of $12.8 million for a group of businesses collectively known as WOW Tech, its lawyers at Osha Bergman Watanabe & Burton LLP (OBWB) said today. In a five-day trial in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware, the WOW Tech group, a subset of companies within the Lovehoney Group IntiHealth Ger GmbH, WOW Tech Canada, Ltd., WOW Tech USA, Ltd., and Novoluto GmbH defeated antitrust and unfair competition claims brought by EIS, Inc., and prevailed with counterclaims of patent infringement and willful infringement. The jury returned the verdict after about three hours of deliberations, finding EIS had not proven its allegations of Lanham Act violations, tortious interference, unfair competition, inequitable conduct, deceptive trade practices, Walker Process fraud, and Sherman Act claims. The jury also confirmed the validity of all five of the WOW Tech group's patents and entered findings of willful patent infringement against EIS, Inc, EIS GmbH, Triple A Marketing GmbH, and Triple A Import GmbH. The WOW Tech group is represented by lead counsel Tammy Terry, and OBWB attorneys Lisa Margonis, Califf T. Cooper, and Gopal Rao Gannamraj. The trial team also included OBWB paralegals Jason Tucker and Colin Gould, and local counsel, Greg Stuhlman, of Chipman Brown Cicero and Cole, of Wilmington, Del. Osha Bergman Watanabe & Burton LLP Partner Tammy Terry said, "We're grateful for the jury's decisive ruling in favor of the WOW Tech group. This is a huge victory for our clients after a four-year fight. Our legal team appreciated the opportunity to help our clients prevail in protecting their intellectual property rights." WOW Tech also prevailed in three earlier inter partes review (IPR) proceedings initiated by EIS GmbH in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Patent Trial and Appeal Board all of which were affirmed by the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in March 2023. The case is "EIS, Inc., v. IntiHealth Ger GmbH, et al.," Case No. 1:19-cv-01227, in the U.S. District Court of Delaware. About Osha Bergman Watanabe & Burton LLP Osha Bergman Watanabe & Burton LLP (OBWB) is a full-service intellectual property law firm with a global reach. Our expertise in intellectual property law and IP-intensive industries coupled with our client-focused culture enables us to deliver a premium level of quality, value, and service. At our strategically located offices in the United States, France, Dubai, Japan, and China, we offer clients assistance with patents, copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets, and unfair competition. At OBWB we strategize, prepare and file, negotiate, license, enforce and defend, and facilitate monetizing intellectual property assets. OBWB was ranked a "Best Law Firm" in patent law and litigation-patent by U.S. News Best Lawyers for 2023. For more information, please visit www.obwbip.com. Contact: Erin Powers Powers MediaWorks LLC, for Osha Bergman Watanabe & Burton LLP 281.703.6000. SOURCE Osha Bergman Watanabe & Burton LLP STAMFORD, Conn., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Partners General Insurance Agency (PGIA), a unit of K2 Insurance Services, LLC, is pleased to announce the appointment of Angel Yu as Vice President. Angel will underwrite a new stand-alone lead excess liability program for risks located across the United States. She joins PGIA from San Francisco, CA-based Presto Insurance Services, where she served as Founder and Chief Executive Officer since 2013. Prior to Presto, Angel held senior underwriting roles at Century Surety Company and First Capital. Angel brings strong distribution and brokerage connections and deep underwriting expertise, particularly in the Excess Liability segment. In addition, Angel brings new well-rated re/insurer relationships to PGIA that she has enjoyed for several years. Stand Alone Excess Program Highlights: Targeting a broad mix of industries and classes Excellent service through the existing PGIA team Access to two excess carriers with up to $10M in excess capacity in excess capacity Minimum policy premiums as low as $1,500 While existing accounts will continue to be serviced through Presto, going forward, all new and renewal business will be moved over to PGIA. Angel earned her B.S. in Mathematics and Economics from the University of Pittsburg. She will continue to be based in San Francisco, CA. Angel Yu, Vice President of PGIA: "I am thrilled to be joining PGIA and K2 at such an exciting time in the company's history. PGIA's strong internal resources including robust actuarial and underwriting support will enable me to continue to really deliver for my clients. I want to thank all my valued broker partners for your many years of partnership. The PGIA standalone excess program will continue to be your go-to market for standalone excess placements." Tom Farrell, President of PGIA: "I am delighted to welcome Angel Yu to the PGIA team. Angel has a strong track record of disciplined underwriting performance over many years and brings strong distribution and carrier relationships to PGIA. As we continue to grow our business, Angel will bring additional products and expertise to the table for us and we are excited to see what she will accomplish over the next several years." About Partners General Insurance Agency Founded in 2001, Partners General Insurance Agency is a leading Managing General Underwriter of General and Excess Liability. PGIA is a unit of K2 Insurance Services, LLC, a global MGA platform with $1.5bln of underwritten premiums under management. PGIA provides Primary General Liability and Excess coverages countrywide through a select group of appointed wholesaler surplus lines brokers on a non-admitted basis. In 2018, PGIA was acquired by K2 Insurance Services and PGIA underwrites on behalf of several E&S insurance carriers in all 50 states and offers tailored solutions for hard-to-place casualty business with offices in California (HQ), Illinois, Texas, Virginia and Connecticut. Contact: Partners General Insurance Agency Tom Farrell, President [email protected] +1 203.683.1844 Angel Yu, Vice President [email protected] +1 628.246.1061 x 1928 SOURCE Partners General Insurance Agency WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Despite affecting up to 15% of women and a $15 billion annual economic burden in the U.S. alone, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has yet to see any treatments specifically for the disorder approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To address this critical gap in care, PCOS Challenge: The National Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Association has organized the PCOS Externally-Led Patient-Focused Drug-Development Meeting (PCOS EL-PFDD Meeting) as a listening session for the FDA, product developers, clinicians, and academic researchers to hear directly from individuals with PCOS about the health effects and daily impacts of the condition, their treatment goals, and their decision factors when seeking out or selecting a treatment. The PCOS EL-PFDD meeting is being conducted as a parallel effort to the FDA's PFDD initiative to more systematically gather patients' perspectives on their conditions and available therapies to treat their conditions. The input from EL-PFDD meetings can inform the FDA's oversight during drug development and marketing application reviews. PCOS Externally-Led Patient-Focused Drug-Development Meeting (PCOS EL-PFDD Meeting) Meeting Details The PCOS EL-PFDD Meeting will take place on Friday, November 3, 2023, from 10:00 AM to 2:30 PM EST at Samuel Riggs IV Alumni Center in College Park, Maryland. The event will be hybrid, enabling participation both in-person and via an interactive live stream. What's at Stake? Sasha Ottey, Founder and Executive Director of PCOS Challenge, articulates, "This is a historic meeting in the field of PCOS that can have significant global impact. Decisions and precedents set by the FDA can have a profound influence on regulatory bodies worldwide. As we look forward to this important event, we are excited to engage with FDA representatives, researchers, clinicians and companies that are committed to understanding PCOS and recognize the indispensable advantages of putting patients' needs and priorities at the center of care. Despite nearly 90 years since PCOS was first identified as Stein-Leventhal Syndrome, we still face the stark reality that there are no FDA-approved treatments specifically tailored for this condition. This meeting and our strategic follow-up efforts are designed to provide both the FDA and industry with invaluable patient insights. These efforts aim to accelerate the development of new FDA-approved therapies, diagnostics, devices and other technologies targeted for PCOS." Benefits for Patients Attending Participating in this meeting grants patients the unprecedented opportunity to influence the development of PCOS-focused treatments. Benefits include: Directly informing stakeholders about the daily impacts and health effects of living with PCOS. Sharing perspectives on the effectiveness of existing treatment and management options. Highlighting patients' unmet needs and priorities for new treatments. Benefits for Industry Representatives and Healthcare Providers Attending For industry stakeholders, attending this meeting is a strategic move toward patient-centered innovation. Benefits encompass: Gaining an in-depth understanding of patients' experiences, symptom burden, and treatment history. Learning the multiple factors influencing patients' treatment choices and trial participation. Identifying unmet needs in PCOS care to drive more effective drug development. Obtaining insights to design patient-centered clinical trials tailored to better meet the needs and priorities of PCOS patients. Additional Information For more information on the PCOS EL-PFDD Meeting, registration and sponsorship opportunities, visit https://pcoschallenge.org/pcos-pfdd . About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome PCOS is a serious genetic, hormone, metabolic, and reproductive disorder that can lead to lifelong complications, infertility, anxiety, depression and other psychosocial disorders, obesity, severe hair and skin issues, endometrial cancer, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and other conditions. About PCOS Challenge Serving nearly 60,000 members, PCOS Challenge: The National Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Association is the largest PCOS patient advocacy organization globally. PCOS Challenge is the leading organization advancing PCOS health policy at the federal and state level, patient-centered research and patient-focused drug development and treatment options. PCOS Challenge provides support to industry partners at every stage of development, ranging from initial discovery and preclinical phases to post-FDA approval and outcome assessment. Media Contact: William R. Patterson Director of Public Affairs PCOS Challenge: The National Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Association Telephone: 404-855-7244 SOURCE PCOS Challenge: The National Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Association For a second year, Leica will select winners from the US, UK, Mexico, and Canada, where one winner from each region will receive a Leica SL2-S camera set and $10,000 USD TEANECK, N.J., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Leica Camera announces the fifth annual call for entries to the Leica Women Foto Project Award, the storied brand's initiative to amplify diverse perspectives and underrepresented voices in visual storytelling. This year's theme, "Perspective is Power", encourages applicants to share a photo essay connected to topics of reclamation, resilience, or rebirth. The Leica Women Foto Project Award is open to applicants across the United States, United Kingdom, Mexico, and Canada (excluding Quebec), and winners receive a Leica SL2-S camera, a Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm f/2.8 ASPH. lens, and cash prize of $10,000 USD. Leica Women Foto Project 2024 - Call for Entries Leica Women Foto Project The Leica Women Foto Project serves to empower the feminine perspective and its impact on the way we witness, interpret, and interact with our world. The award serves as a catalyst to reframe how we express and consume visual narratives. To date, the initiative has fueled diversity in visual storytelling through grants and sponsorships with Women Photograph, Photoville, Las Fotos Project, and the ConnectHer Film Festival while co-creating the Leica Women Foto Project Grant for the Leica Society International's philanthropic efforts. "Leica's dedication to innovation and culture extends to the Leica Women Foto Project Award, where we recognize technical ability as chapter in a larger story," says Kiran Karnani, Vice President of Marketing for Leica Camera USA. "The Award underscores the vital role of perspective in shaping how we interact and understand our world. The Leica Women Foto Project encourages the feminine viewpoint to be an active participant in documenting every moment, emphasizing that each is intrinsically valuable to our collective narrative." Leica Women Foto Project Award recipients will be determined by a panel of notable judges based on quality of photography, sophistication of project and a dedication to the medium of photography. The 2024 panel of judges is composed of: Karin Rehn-Kaufmann , Director, Leica Galleries Worldwide Director, Leica Galleries Worldwide Maggie Steber , Documentary Photographer & Guggenheim Grant Fellow Documentary Photographer & Guggenheim Grant Fellow Nikki Reed , Actress, Photographer, Writer Actress, Photographer, Writer Elizabeth Krist , Former Senior Photo Editor at National Geo graphic , Former Senior Photo Editor at Natalia Jimenez , Senior Picture Editor, The Washington Post Senior Picture Editor, Laura Roumanous, Co-Founder, Photoville Co-Founder, Photoville Artemis Moshtaghian, News Editor for CNN's National Desk, Producer for CNN International News Editor for National Desk, Producer for Whitney Matewe, Photo Editor, Time Magazine Photo Editor, Gulnara Lyabib Samoilova, Founder, Women Street Photographers Founder, Women Street Photographers Jennifer Pastore , Creative Consultant, Former Executive Photo Director of WSJ. Magazine , Creative Consultant, Former Executive Photo Director of WSJ. Magazine Jessica Dimson , Deputy Director of Photography at New York Times Magazine , Deputy Director of Photography at Renee Mussai , Artistic Director, The Walther Collection , Artistic Director, The Walther Collection Sara Rumens , Features Picture Editor at The Times , Features Picture Editor at Marissa Roth, Pulitzer Prize-winning Photojournalist The call for entries for the 2024 Leica Women Foto Project Award will begin September 18th at 9:00AM ET and will close on November 7th at 11:59 PM EST. The Awardees will be announced on International Women's Day, March 8, 2024. Applications for the Leica Women Foto Project Award can be submitted through the online registration form found on https://leicawomenfotoproject.com/submit with terms and conditions. All photos must adhere to the Submission Guidelines as outlined on the official website. Candidates must be legal residents of US, Canada, UK, or Mexico and 21 years or older at time and date of entry. Leica Camera will announce the winners of the Leica Women Foto Project Award on March 8th, 2024 via Leica Camera USA's and Leica Camera UK's website, newsletter, and @leicacamerausa, and @leicauk on Facebook and Instagram. Please visit https://leicawomenfotoproject.com/submit to apply for the 2024 Leica Women Foto Project Award. About Leica Camera Leica represents a union of craftsmanship, design and experience. It is a beautiful collision of art and engineering, and the future of form and functionality. Leica Camera, headquartered in Wetzlar, Germany with a second production site in Vila Nova de Famalicao, Portugal, is an internationally operating, premium-segment manufacturer of cameras and sport optics products. The legendary status of the Leica brand is founded on a long tradition of excellence in the supreme quality and performance of cameras and lenses, and the iconic images that artists and photojournalists everywhere captured with them. For more information about Leica visit https://leicacamerausa.com/, or follow the brand on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Press Contact For all inquiries and information: Nike Communications Inc. Phone: 201-995-0051 Email: [email protected] Internet: www.leica-camera.com SOURCE Leica Camera USA MORRISON, Colo., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Erosion is damaging America's #1 dinosaur tracksite, but to what degree and how quickly are unknowns. New mapping efforts will set the baseline for measuring how much wind, water, plant life, and gravity are conspiring to wipe away footprints made millions of years ago and uncovered in a 1937 road project between Denver and Red Rocks Amphitheatre. (left to right) Lance Murphey and Dr. Paul Murphey prepare to launch a drone over the main dinosaur tracksite at Dinosaur Ridge in Morrison, Colorado as onlookers admire the more than 250 footprints preserved in Cretaceous sandstone. "Tears came to my eyes," said photogrammetrist Neffra Matthews when Jefferson County Open Space (JCOS) Director Tom Hoby announced funding for the annual project. "Funding is always a struggle, so to hear that commitment was a great relief," said the recently retired U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) geographer who has been studying the tracksite more than 20 years. Matthews' pioneering photogrammetry work at the site will enhance the new study led by top mitigation paleontologist Dr. Paul Murphey, who has devised fossil track protection plans around the country. "The photogrammetric data will not only be used to generate a high resolution map of the site, but will be used to create a 3D model that can enable a recreation of the track surface in the event of catastrophic damage such as a landslide," Dr. Murphey said. Drone photography using a digital SLR camera combined with 3D mapping will define and measure the depth of footprints in the sloping rock surface. Images will then be compared year-over-year to pinpoint even tiny changes. The main tracksite at Dinosaur Ridge contains more than 250 individual dinosaur footprints, one reason it has been ranked number one by paleontologists including Dr. Martin Lockley, who will also take part in the effort along with award winning photographer Lance Murphey. In 1973, JCOS took ownership of the land which includes the area now known as Dinosaur Ridge the same year the U.S. Department of the Interior designated the Morrison Fossil Area National Natural Landmark (NNL). The nonprofit Friends of Dinosaur Ridge (FODR) formed in 1989 with a mission of preserving the natural resources along the roadway that spans the fossiliferous segment of Dakota hogback. FODR operates under a license agreement with JCOS to provide expert educational programming. CONTACT: Kristen Kidd, 3036816510, [email protected] SOURCE Friends of Dinosaur Ridge DALLAS, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Experienced plaintiffs' trial attorneys Chris Hamilton and Paul Wingo from the Dallas personal injury and wrongful death law firm Hamilton Wingo once again are recognized as two of the state's best on the 2023 Texas Super Lawyers list published by Thomson Reuters. The Hamilton Wingo founders have been named among Texas' leading trial lawyers for years based on their work for individuals and families in significant personal injury cases and high-stakes business disputes. Mr. Hamilton has been ranked on the Super Lawyers list every year for a decade, and this marks the fourth consecutive selection for Mr. Wingo. Earlier this year, Hamilton Wingo's Barret Robin and Damian Williams were honored on the 2023 Texas Super Lawyers Rising Stars List of the state's top young legal minds based on their work in personal injury trials. Hamilton Wingo won the largest verdict in the United States last year when a Dallas jury awarded the firm's clients more than $7.37 billion against a Fortune 100 cable TV operator. The jury issued its decision after finding the cable company 90 percent liable for the death of an 83-year-old Irving woman who was murdered by a repairman. Since winning the record verdict, Hamilton Wingo has earned multiple professional honors, including recently being named the Dallas Personal Injury Law Firm of the Year by the publishers of Texas Lawyer newspaper. The firm also has added multiple experienced attorneys to its deep roster of trial professionals. Hamilton Wingo's recent additions include experienced trial attorneys Kristi Wood, Guillermo Flores, Jared Mullowney, and Sean Thomas Cook. Hamilton Wingo is one of Dallas' premier trial law firms, having won billions of dollars in verdicts and settlements in the past decade alone. The firm's skilled attorneys represent people from all walks of life in serious personal injury and wrongful death cases involving automobile, airline, and other transportation incidents, workplace safety issues, dram shop liability, dangerous products, industrial catastrophes, medical malpractice, premises liability, utility accidents, and water contamination in addition to high-stakes business litigation. To learn more about the firm, visit www.hamiltonwingo.com. For more information, please contact Bruce Vincent at 214-763-6226 or [email protected]. SOURCE Hamilton Wingo, LLP LONDON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a comprehensive research report by Brandessence Market Research (BMRC), "Poultry Health Market 2021 By Type: (Vaccines, Parasiticides, Anti-Infectives, Medicinal Feed Additives), By Application: (Farm, House) 2029". The Poultry Health Market was valued at USD 3.79 billion in 2018 and expected to reach USD 6.00 billion in 2025, amplifying with a CAGR of 6.79% over forecasted period. Poultry encompasses of domesticated birds like ducks, hens, turkey, geese, and quails, which are reared by human beings. These birds are generally reared in poultry farms with an aim to obtain useful products like meat, feathers, and eggs, among others. Poultry animals are susceptible to numerous diseases including bird flus. It is crucial for poultry farmers to emphasize on the health of these birds and provide them with the necessary vaccinations and medications. This business intelligence assesses the market based on various parameters. The growth drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges are well elaborated in this report. It contains accurate revenue projections, estimated CAGR, past valuation, and present growth rate of this industry vertical. Apart from that, the major segments and regions are evaluated accurately with an aim to determine the size and scope of the overall market. The key players are highlighted with prime emphasis on their revenue streams, market performance, brand positioning, and strategies, among others. Key Takeaways: Poultry Health Market is poised to amplify with a CAGR of 6.79% over 2022-2029. Growing trends of poultry farming along with the increased consumption of eggs and meat are aiding industry expansion. MEA is projected to capture a substantial revenue share due to the increased trend of livestock and poultry farming along with growing focus on animal health. Poultry Health Market, in terms of revenue, was estimated to be USD 3.79 billion in 2018 and is expected to reach USD 6.00 billion in 2025, growing at a CAGR of 6.79% over the forecast period. Poultry Health Market Report Scope: Report Metric Details Poultry Health Market Revenue forecast in 2025 USD 6.00 billion Market Size in 2018 USD 3.79 billion Market Growth Rate CAGR of 6.79% from 2022 to 2029 Base Year 2021 Study Period 2022-2029 Key Players/Companies Bayer Healthcare, Boehringer Ingelheim, Ceva Animal Health, Elanco (Eli Lilly), Merck, Merial (Sanofi), Virbac, Zoetis Animal Healthcare & Others Get Free Sample PDF Brochure: https://brandessenceresearch.com/downloadSample/PostId/735 Elaborating the key trends and dynamics of Poultry Health Market: Growing trends of poultry farming along with the increased consumption of eggs and meat are the primary expansion drivers of this industry vertical. Furthermore, rising instances of disease outbreaks like bird flu, rapidly evolving veterinary infrastructure, and growing animal health awareness are creating lucrative opportunities for this business sphere to prosper. Increasing R&D activities in the field coupled with government initiatives promoting sustainable progression of poultry animals are adding momentum to the progression of this marketplace. Major Growth Drivers: Escalating demand for poultry products- There has been an elevating demand for poultry products such as eggs, and meat, among others. This is credited to the increased consumption of these products due to their nutrient rich profile and growing disposable income levels. This has created a need among poultry farmers to focus on the health of the domesticated birds. Growing prevalence of diseases- Poultry diseases are highly prevalent across the globe. Disease outbreaks like avian influenza, bacterial infections, and Newcastle disease, among others have claimed the lives of countless poultry animals worldwide. This has created a grave concern among animal health authorities, government, and poultry farmers. Poultry disease prevention and treatment measures have become a top priority in many regions. These factors together are adding momentum to the progression of this business vertical. Challenges: High costs- Veterinary products and services can get quite costly, thereby posing a significant challenge for small time poultry or livestock farmers. Due to financial constraints, they might not be able to afford high end vaccines, medications, diagnostic tests, and other related entities. This in turn is hindering the remuneration scope of this market space. Competitive landscape of Poultry Health Market: Bayer Healthcare Boehringer Ingelheim Ceva Animal Health Elanco (Eli Lilly) Merck Merial (Sanofi) Virbac Zoetis Animal Healthcare Others Browse In-depth Market Research Report (300 Pages) on Poultry Health Market: https://brandessenceresearch.com/downloadSample/PostId/735 Segmental Assessment: By type, the vaccines segment is poised to amass notable gains over 2022-2029. This is due to rising focus on preventive healthcare and the growing prevalence of avian flus. Based on application, the farm segment is anticipated to garner significant returns over the stipulated timeline. This is attributable to the increased trend of poultry farming and the escalating demand for poultry-derived products. Geographical analysis and landscape: Middle East & Africa Poultry Health Market: MEA is projected to capture a substantial revenue share over the forecast duration. This is credited to the increased trend of livestock and poultry farming, growing focus on animal health, and rising disposable income levels. Besides, rising consumption of eggs and meat along rapidly evolving veterinary infrastructure are aiding the expansion of this business vertical. Europe: Europe is reckoned to showcase the fastest CAGR over the estimated timeframe. This is ascribed to the growing R&D in the field, widespread technological advancements, and rising prevalence of zoonotic diseases. Moreover, presence of prominent players and existence of favourable reimbursement scenario are augmenting the outlook of this market space. Opportunities in this industry: Technological advancements in veterinary sector- There is an influx of high-end technologies in the animal healthcare vertical. Improved vaccines, diagnostics, and pharmaceuticals allow for better disease management and health outcomes in poultry flocks. Additionally, emerging technologies like precision agriculture, data analytics, and sensor-based monitoring systems enable poultry farmers to optimize flock health and make informed decisions, leading to improved productivity and reduced losses. Major developments in Poultry Health Market: Acquisitions: In January 2019, Zoetis, one of the leading animal health companies, acquired Performance Livestock Analytics (PLA), a technology company focused on data analytics for livestock producers. Porter's Five Forces Analysis: Threat of New Entrants: The threat of new entrants in the poultry health market is relatively moderate. While there are opportunities in the industry due to increasing global demand for poultry products and the need for better health management, several barriers discourage new players. Established companies already hold significant market share, benefiting from economies of scale, established distribution networks, and well-developed research and development capabilities. Additionally, stringent regulatory requirements for veterinary products and the need for extensive expertise in animal health further deter potential new entrants. Bargaining Power of Buyers: The bargaining power of buyers in the poultry health market can vary depending on the specific context. In the case of large poultry producers and integrators, their size and buying power could give them some leverage to negotiate prices with suppliers of poultry health products (e.g., vaccines, medications). However, the buyers' power may be limited when dealing with unique or essential products, where the switching costs are high. Smaller poultry farmers may have less bargaining power due to their relatively smaller purchasing volumes and financial limitations. Purchase Copy of This Research Report @: https://brandessenceresearch.com/Checkout?report_id=735 Bargaining Power of Suppliers: The bargaining power of suppliers in the poultry health market can be considered relatively moderate. Suppliers of veterinary products and services hold some power, especially for specialized products or technologies. However, the presence of multiple suppliers and ongoing developments in the animal health industry can mitigate supplier power. Companies in this market may also have strong relationships with suppliers or even conduct in-house research and development, reducing dependency on external suppliers. Threat of Substitutes: The threat of substitute products or services in the poultry health market is relatively low. Poultry health management requires specific and tailored products, such as vaccines, medications, and diagnostics, which have limited substitutes. While there might be alternative health management practices, such as natural remedies or herbal supplements, they may not offer the same level of effectiveness as specialized veterinary products. Competitive Rivalry: The intensity of competitive rivalry in the poultry health market is moderate to high. The market is competitive with several established players and numerous smaller companies vying for market share. The competition is driven by factors such as product efficacy, quality, pricing, and customer relationships. Additionally, advancements in veterinary medicine and technology can lead to new product offerings and intensify competition among existing players. Related Blogs: Fezolinetant by Veozah: Advancing Women's Health by Astellas Pharma Inc. 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Monkeypox and the Top 5 Monkeypox Research Companies The Power of Tech Innovation: How Technology is Revolutionizing the Entire Drug Discovery Sector About Us: Brandessence Market Research & Consulting Pvt ltd. Brandessence Market Research publishes market research reports & business insights produced by highly qualified and experienced industry analysts. Our research reports are available in a wide range of industry verticals including aviation, food & beverage, healthcare, ICT, Construction, Chemicals and lot more. Brand Essence Market Research report will be best fit for senior executives, business development managers, marketing managers, consultants, CEOs, CIOs, COOs, and Directors, governments, agencies, organizations and Ph.D. Students. We have a delivery center in Pune, India and our sales office is in London. Follow Us: LinkedIn Contact: Mr. Vishal Sawant Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Corporate Sales: +44-2038074155 Asia Office: +917447409162 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1392316/BEMR_Logo.jpg SOURCE Brandessence Market Research and Consulting Private Limited SHENYANG, China, Sept. 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Between September 11 and 13, the "Precious Flavors of Liaoning" overseas promotion campaign, which was jointly held by the Information Office of the People's Government of Liaoning Province and the News & Information Center of Xinhua News Agency, concluded in great success in South Korea. Shao Yuying, Deputy Director of the Publicity Department of the CPC Liaoning Provincial Committee, Director of the Information Office of the People's Government of Liaoning Province, Party Group Secretary and President of the Liaoning Federation of Literary and Art Circles, KIM YOUNGWOO, former Minister of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in China, Sun Wei, President of the China Chamber of Commerce in Korea, Wang Xiude, President of the Korea Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry and other prominent Chinese and South Korean guests attended the event. Precious Flavors of Liaoning In 2021, the Northeast Asia folk gastronomic culture exchange week campaign, hosted under the "Precious Flavors of Liaoning" brand, was hosted in the five cities of Shenyang, Dandong, Panjin, Zhuanghe and Dalian of Liaoning Province. In 2022, the "Precious Flavors of Liaoning" program landed in Japan and whipped up a flurry of excitement for Liaoning culinary culture in Tokyo. This year, the "Precious Flavors of Liaoning" campaign took place in South Korea, where gastronomy was featured as focal point in various thematic activities such as "Taste Foods and Make Friends in Dong Seoul University", "Liaoning Culinary Skills Exchange" and "Dialogue between Liaoning Barbecue and Korean Barbecue". Guests from different parts of Chinese and South Korean societies engaged in discussions and interchanges about food, tourism and culture with the event serving as a bridge of friendship for both sides, while also further elevating the overseas cultural image and international influence of Liaoning Province. In the Unique Liaoning Ingredients Exhibition Zone, various high-quality products and specialties from around the province was showcased, including more than 40 celebrated items like Yuyuan pickled vegetable, Nongfeng rice, Hongqiao cordyceps militaris, Liaoyang Lingxiushan black chokeberry beverage, etc. The event facilitated the exposure of Liaoning foods and drinks abroad and functioned as a platform conducive to the development of the Liaoning F&B industry. Image Attachments Links: Link: https://iop.asianetnews.net/view-attachment?attach-id=442227 Caption: Precious Flavors of Liaoning SOURCE News & Information Center of Xinhua News Agency Enabling a more open PON ecosystem, OpenPath will help bridge the digital divide, supporting last-mile network upload and download speeds of 10Gpbs, initially ROCHESTER, N.Y., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Precision OT , a global optical system engineering and integration company, is thrilled to announce the launch of its groundbreaking end-to-end Passive Optical Network (PON) Access Solution - OpenPath. This game-changing product is set to redraw the PON landscape, empowering Multiple System Operators (MSOs), Service Providers or any Access Network with unmatched ease, flexibility and efficiency in deploying and managing PON networks. OpenPath is a comprehensive turnkey solution that encompasses all the critical components of a PON network, including Optical Line Terminals (OLTs), optics, splitters, Optical Network Units (ONUs), and cutting-edge controller software. Initially set to support XGS-PON (10 Gigabit Symmetrical Passive Optical Networks), Precision OT's holistic approach makes it easier for network operators to deploy their own PONs on the timelines they require. By enabling a more open PON ecosystem, OpenPath will lower lead times and remove the multiple barriers to entry that many network operators face. Unlike typical, proprietary solutions, Precision OT's system leverages a white box hardware model, which supports the integration of a diverse array of ONUs and ONTs. This effectively eliminates the vendor-lock scenario, making it faster and simpler for MSOs, telcos and other customers to acquire and deploy the equipment they need from Precision OT. As well, OpenPath's user-friendly management system software interface enables the company's customers to bring all the components of Precision OT's turnkey system together, ensuring optimal performance and interoperability with any existing infrastructure and software systems they may have. As end-user demand for greater bandwidth continues to grow, Precision OT's solution suite is uniquely poised to help create and extend last-mile fiber networks. According to Fortune Business Insights , the global PON market will grow from $13.76 billion in 2023 to $35.59 billion in 2030. With OpenPath, the company is well-positioned to play a crucial role in speeding PON deployments with the same quality and support it has provided its customers since its inception. "Our new PON solution, OpenPath, is a reflection of our expertise and commitment to fulfilling customer-requested solutions that evolve to go far beyond today," said David Halladay, President and CEO of Precision OT. "OpenPath will transform PON deployments, providing our customers with the high-quality tools, customer support and management software they need to deliver the ultra-fast broadband services their end-users desire." Precision OT's OpenPath solution will bring customers: Ability to converge services (residential, commercial, and wireless) over a single infrastructure Ability to reuse existing Optical Distribution Network (ODN)/passive resources An end to vendor-lock with significant financial benefits Upgrade eligibility for additional form factors and future PON technologies Intuitive software and full support Precision OT will be onsite at SCTE Cable-Tec Expo, held October 16-19 in Denver, Colorado, to demonstrate its breakthrough solution, OpenPath, from October 16 - 19th. Visit Booth #565 to meet with the team onsite, or pre-book a meeting here: https://info.precisionot.com/l/775873/2023-07-20/2sc6k3f Custom lab trials will be available beginning immediately. About Precision OT Precision Optical Technologies, Inc. is a systems integration company focused on end-to-end optical networking solutions, network design services and cutting-edge product development advancements. Backed by our extensive experience and robust R&D efforts, we play an integral role in enabling next-generation optical networks worldwide. For more information, visit www.precisionot.com . For media inquiries, please contact: Alicca Hudson 585.500.4780 SOURCE Precision Optical Technologies VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - PreveCeutical Medical Inc. (the "Company" or "PreveCeutical") (CSE: PREV) (OTCQB: PRVCF) (FSE: 18H), is proud to announce that Endosane Pharmaceuticals GmbH will proceed with its research initiative focused on preclinical studies to evaluate the brain delivery characteristics of sol-gel technology and whether pharmacologically relevant concentrations of CBD can be achieved with this technology. The company's commitment to advancing medical research is demonstrated through its comprehensive research proposal for a first preclinical study in rats. Research Objectives: The primary objectives of this study include: Objective 1: Investigating the potential of sol-gel technology for rapid delivery of CBD to the brain. This includes assessing the amounts achieved, regional distribution, and time course of CBD uptake in the brain (Experiments 1 and 2). Objective 2: Demonstrating the pharmacological relevance of brain CBD concentrations following intranasal application (Experiment 3). Study Design: The research will be conducted through a series of well-structured experiments: Experiment 1: Rats will be administered up to three doses of CBD in sol-gel form via nasal spray. Evaluation will be carried out at six different time points. Brain regions such as the olfactory bulb, prefrontal cortex, parietal cortex, pons, and cerebellum will be assessed, and concentrations of CBD and its metabolites will be quantified using a validated LC-MS/MS assay. Experiment 2: A separate group of rats will receive intranasal CBD administration. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and cardiac blood samples will be collected at specific time points based on the findings from Experiment 1. CBD and metabolite concentrations will be measured using validated LC-MS/MS assays. Experiment 3: Building upon the outcomes of Experiment 1, the study will assess intranasal CBD doses that yield significant brain exposure in rat models of anxiety and chronic pain. These are two conditions in which CBD has already demonstrated preclinical efficacy. Collaborative Efforts: Endosane is collaborating closely with the Brain and Mind Centre of the University of Sydney. A significant breakthrough in this partnership has been the identification of anandamide as a potential blood surrogate marker for CBD's brain activity. The research team has also examined the temporal changes in serum. PreveCeutical and Endosane dedication to research in the field of CBD delivery and pharmacology underscores its commitment to advancing medical knowledge and improving patient outcomes. The company remains focused on scientific innovation, working diligently to pave the way for novel treatments and therapies. About Endosane Endosane Pharmaceuticals GmbH, a joint venture between an international team of scientists and the Berlin-based health and life science company Sanity Group, develops finished medicinal products for the treatment of neuropsychiatric and psychiatric disorders. To this end, Endosane Pharmaceuticals is systematically researching the endocannabinoid system for its potential to modulate neurophysiological balance. The current drug portfolio contains compounds for the treatment of various indications, including schizophrenia, social anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. The international team is led by the renowned German neurologist and psychiatrist Prof. Dr. F. Markus Leweke (University of Sydney), long-time head of the Center of Excellence for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Research at the Central Institute of Mental Health Mannheim at the Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg. The company, founded in 2020, is based in Berlin. More information at www.endosane.com. About the Sanity Group Sanity Group has set itself the goal of improving the quality of life of people through the sensible use of cannabinoids and the use of the endocannabinoid system. In addition to pharmaceuticals, it also focuses on well-being and cosmetic products based on cannabinoids. In parallel, Sanity Group is working and researching new medical products, innovative dosage forms, as well as technological products and services to further develop the infrastructure. Sanity Group was founded in 2018 by Finn Age Hansel and Fabian Friede and now employs a team of over 100 people at its headquarters in Berlin-Mitte and its research site near Frankfurt am Main. Sanity Group brands include Vayamed (pharmaceuticals), VAAY (CBD products) and This Place (functional cosmetics). More information at www.sanitygroup.com. About PreveCeutical PreveCeutical is a health sciences company that develops innovative options for preventive and curative therapies utilizing organic and nature identical products. The Company aims to be a leader in the preventive health sciences sector. With the completion of three of its research programs, the Company is actively working on the development, clinical trials, and commercialization of its products; and has filed a number of provisional patent applications to protect the intellectual property from its research programs. For more information about PreveCeutical, please visit our website, www.PreveCeutical.com or follow us on Twitter and Facebook. On behalf of the Board of Directors of PreveCeutical Stephen Van Deventer, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities legislation, including the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements in this news release that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and include any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations and orientations regarding the future, including, without limitation, statements regarding the timing, completion and the final terms and conditions of a license agreement entered into between the Company and Endosane, the Company's role in the development and testing of products utilizing the sol-gel technology, the continued research interests of PreveCeutical, PreveCeutical's anticipated business plans, and its prospects of success in executing its proposed plans. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as "will", "pro forma", "plans", "expects", "may", "should", "budget", "schedules", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", "potential", "proposes" or variations of such words including negative variations thereof and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions regarding PreveCeutical, including expected growth, results of operations, including PreveCeutical's research and development activities, performance, industry trends, growth opportunities, that PreveCeutical will be granted requisite expedited approvals by world health, retain and attract qualified research personnel, obtain and/or maintain the necessary intellectual property rights needed to carry out future business activities, and that the benefits and impacts arising from the Option Agreement and the final terms of the license agreement will be consistent with the Company's expectations. Actual results could differ from those projected in any forward-looking statements due to numerous factors including, risks and uncertainties relating to: the Company's involvement in the development of products utilizing the sol-gel technology, that the Company and Endosane will be unable to agree on terms for a license agreement, that the benefits and impacts arising from the Option Agreement and a license agreement will be consistent with the Company's expectations, complexities and delays in connection with research and development activities and the actual results of research and development activities; the ability of PreveCeutical to, among other things, protect its respective intellectual property, obtain any required governmental, regulatory or stock exchange approvals, permits, consents or authorizations required, including Canadian Securities Exchange acceptance of any planned future activities and obtaining expedited requisite approvals from world health agencies; and the ability of PreveCeutical to commercialize products, pursue business partnerships, complete their research programs as planned, and obtain the financing required to carry out their planned future activities. Other factors, such as general economic, market or business conditions or changes in laws, regulations and policies affecting the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry may also adversely affect the future results or performance of PreveCeutical. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and, unless required by applicable law, PreveCeutical assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in these forward-looking statements. Although PreveCeutical believes that the statements, beliefs, plans, expectations, and intentions contained in this news release are reasonable, there can be no assurance that those statements, beliefs, plans, expectations, or intentions will prove to be accurate. Readers should consider all of the information set forth herein and should also refer to other periodic reports provided by PreveCeutical from time-to-time. These reports and PreveCeutical's filings are available at www.sedarplus.ca. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE or CNSX Markets), its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the CSE), nor any other regulatory authority accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Any link in this press release to external information or other resources is provided for reference only, and such information or resources might change from time to time, and may include forward-looking statements as described above, and are subject to the above disclaimers under this heading forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or events and, accordingly, are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements due to the inherent uncertainty of such statements. SOURCE PreveCeutical Medical Inc The Paramedics of Property Damage Announce Plans to Service Texas's Beaumont and Louisiana's Lake Charles Areas BEAUMONT, Texas, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- PuroClean, one of the country's leading property restoration and remediation brands, is targeting the coastal city of Beaumont, Texas, and the Lake Charles, Louisiana, community as it continues its rapid expansion across the country. The franchise brand is looking to capitalize on its ongoing success by securing multi-unit franchise owners who will fulfill their mission of unparalleled customer service and quality of work within the Beaumont and Lake Charles communities. Through market research, PuroClean estimates the cities can support up to two new territories. "The Beaumont/Lake Charles area has been a community at the top of our list for expansion for a while now," said Tim Courtney, Vice President of Franchise Development for PuroClean. "We are seeking strategic franchise partners in this region as it continues to see a growing population with increased economic activity. We feel this locale is under-served with professional restoration services for damage caused by water, fire, mold, and biohazards to homes and businesses. With an ever-changing climate, we also value this area as a strategic location to assist in a territory that experiences a high frequency of severe weather, such as hurricanes." The PuroClean brand is highly regarded not only within the property restoration industry but within the franchising industry as well. In 2022, the company received recognition for the brand in national business awards programs, including PuroClean ranking No. 84 on the Entrepreneur Magazine annual Franchise 500 list, rising 13 places from the previous year's ranking. PuroClean was also recognized by Franchise Times on its "Top 500" list and by Franchise Business Review as a Top Franchise for Franchisee Satisfaction for the fifth consecutive year. The brand is honored to satisfy and exceed the expectations and needs of its franchisees year after year, as they are committed to uplifting their franchise partners and facilitating their success. "We are thrilled to continue expanding our brand's unique concept into new markets throughout the country, as we have gained a loyal following," said Steve White, President and COO of PuroClean. "Our brand has cemented itself as a necessary service for all types of professionals and households in both suburban and urban communities. No matter who you are or where you live, PuroClean brings peace of mind that your home or business is in the best hands during the property restoration process." For over 20 years, PuroClean has helped home and business owners with their restoration and remediation needs, serving communities across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico with a network of over 450 offices. The brand is seeking the right individual who may be in construction and looking to add a restoration component to their business. For more information about PuroClean, call 800-775-7876 or visit www.PuroClean.com. For more information about franchising opportunities, visit www.PuroCleanFranchise.com. About PuroClean PuroClean is a leading, world-class service brand for property water damage remediation, fire and smoke damage mitigation, mold removal, and biohazard clean-up services, working with both residential and commercial customers across the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Founded in 2001, PuroClean is a diverse, fast-growing network of over 450 North American franchise locations, each independently owned and operated. With a commitment to respond within two hours, the professionals at PuroClean are thoroughly screened, insured, and trained in utilizing the latest cutting-edge mitigation technology to complete the remediation task at hand. SOURCE PuroClean TEL AVIV, Israel, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- TipRanks Ltd. today announced that it will provide TipRanks' exclusive data, from October 2023, to Rakuten Securities, Inc., one of the two largest online brokerages in Japan. Rakuten Securities, Inc., which hosts an incredible nine million securities accounts, is displaying TipRanks' datasets, empowering investors to make smart, data-driven decisions. Rakuten Securities' clients will be able to explore TipRanks' top-level stock research tools to choose market-beating stocks. Rakuten Securities, Inc., which hosts an incredible nine million securities accounts, is displaying TipRanks datasets, empowering investors to make smart, data-driven decisions. Rakuten Securities clients will be able to explore TipRanks top-level stock research tools to choose market-beating stocks. (PRNewsfoto/TipRanks Ltd.) TipRanks gives Japanese investors, in an industry first in Japan*, access to the same data that the largest hedge funds use. Rakuten Securities' clients can quickly and easily find all the recent analyst ratings on a stock, along with the analysts' forecasted price targets, implied upsides or downsides, and analyst rating consensus. In addition, they can access customized, real-time lists of the most-rated stocks by analysts, giving them the means to discover the best stocks to invest in. Even more, Rakuten Securities' clients can check where leading hedge funds are investing their money, giving them the ability to follow legendary hedge fund managers. They can easily learn which stocks comprise a hedge fund's portfolio, as well as which stocks the hedge funds are buying or selling. Additionally, Rakuten Securities displays the insiders who are buying or selling stocks. TipRanks' technology scans SEC filings to identify the latest insider transactions, and interprets the data to determine whether the transactions are Informative or Uninformative. All insiders are measured and ranked based on their historical track records, so investors can quickly and easily decide, based on their rankings, which insiders they want to follow. Uri Gruenbaum, CEO of TipRanks, said, "TipRanks is proud to be integrated into Rakuten Securities' brokerage platform. Rakuten Securities has again proven its potency as the brokerage company of choice for all customers ranging from investment newcomers to seasoned traders by choosing to partner with TipRanks, whose mission is to bring cutting-edge financial technology innovation to the everyday investor. Together, Rakuten Securities and TipRanks are giving Rakuten's customers the best and latest stock research data and tools, as we level the playing field for all investors." Yuji Kusunoki, CEO of Rakuten Securities, said, "Thanks to TipRanks' wonderful service, Rakuten Securities users will be able to acquire more extensive investment information that will affect the future stock prices of individual US companies. By making it easy for Japanese investors to obtain information that Wall Street analysts cover but Japanese investors may not have had access to before, we will improve investors' future investment decisions about US stocks. Rakuten Securities will continue to meet the needs of a wide range of customers, from investment novices who are starting to build assets to active traders, as an asset building companion." About TipRanks TipRanks is an investment research company that levels the playing field, giving every investor access to invaluable stock research information that was formerly available only to top Wall Street experts. Using AI, TipRanks gathers publicly available information about stocks, and presents them in easy-to-understand datasets. Brokerages and banks as far spread as the U.S., Singapore, England and Canada have incorporated TipRanks' stock research data into their platforms, giving their customers the means to bolster their investment returns. About Rakuten Securities, Inc. Rakuten Securities is the securities division of Rakuten Group (TOKYO: 4755), which operates as one of the Japan's largest e-commerce providers. Founded in 1999, Rakuten Securities is a leading Japanese online brokerage company. Rakuten Securities provides comprehensive financial brokerage services to over 9.0* million individual investors with a wide range of asset products; including domestic and international cash equities, derivatives, commodities, fixed income, investment trusts, ETFs and foreign exchange. With Rakuten Securities' strong foundation rooted in the Japanese market, today our mission is to provide overseas investors with a broad range of investment services. *As of April 2023 Contact: Gilan Miller-Gertz +972-52-549-4820 [email protected] Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211129/TipRanks.jpg SOURCE TipRanks Ltd. BERKELEY, Calif., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ResVita Bio, a synthetic biology startup, announces that it has been awarded a $250,000 Phase 1 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease (NIAID). This grant will be used to develop RVB-101, a genetically engineered cell therapy for the treatment for severe atopic dermatitis. Dr. Amin Zargar, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of ResVita Bio, expressed his excitement regarding the recent achievement. "Within a year, we have been honored to receive two innovation grants from the NIH to develop therapies for both Netherton Syndrome, an orphan disease, and severe atopic dermatitis through our topical cell therapy approach," Dr. Zargar stated. "This is in addition to our Rare Pediatric Disease Designation for Netherton Syndrome from the FDA, setting the stage for the entry of our therapy into the clinic in 2025." Veteran biopharmaceutical executive and a member of the company's Advisory Board Steven Lo commended ResVita Bio's vision, stating, "Continuous production of therapeutic proteins can be a game-changer in disease treatment, and ResVita Bio has made remarkable progress bringing their platform to the cusp of the clinic." About RVB-101: RVB-101 is a new type of treatment for severe atopic dermatitis, consisting of genetically engineered cells within a moisturizer formulation. Topically applied, the cells temporarily colonize the skin and continuously release proteins that rebuild the epidermal barrier and alleviate inflammation. About ResVita Bio: ResVita Bio launched in June 2022 on a mission to restore and maintain the vitality of the skin through the topical application of cellular therapies. By genetically programming living cells, ResVita Bio aims to repair disrupted skin and alleviate inflammation in various inflammatory skin diseases, including Netherton Syndrome, atopic dermatitis, acne rosacea, and psoriasis. ResVita Bio is a recipient of the Bakar Innovation Fellowship, NIAMS SBIR award, NIAID SBIR award, and the AbbVie Golden Ticket at UC Berkeley's Bakar Labs. For more information on the company, please visit its website at www.resvitabio.com or follow its LinkedIn page. Media Contact: Amin Zargar 510-905-1413 [email protected] SOURCE ResVita Bio ST. JULIAN'S, Malta, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- With reference to the announcement from Gaming Innovation Group Inc. ("GiG") on 29 May 2023, GiG announces today that Richard Brown will leave his position as CEO of GiG effective today and move to a Board advisory position until 31 December 2023. GiG initiated a strategic review earlier this year with the intention to split the Company into two separate companies, to fully optimise growth opportunities and ensure each business can benefit from the strategic and financial flexibility of their distinctive business models. The split will form two industry leading businesses with the potential to grow faster than in the current corporate structure. Richard Carter was appointed as CEO for Platform & Sportsbook in August, securing a strong and experienced leader for this business unit ahead of the planned split of the Company. Jonas Warrer will continue to lead GiG Media as CEO for this business unit. Petter Nylander, Chairman of the Board, will take on the role of Executive Chairman during the period until the proposed split under the strategic review is completed. Mr. Brown will help support the handover to Richard Carter and provide ongoing support to the Board of Directors until the year end. The move will enable both new CEOs with a full mandate to take their respective business units forward while providing adequate background support from Mr. Brown. Petter Nylander says, "We are very pleased with the progression of splitting GiG into two distinct entities to enhance future expansion and drive shareholder value. We now have two strong CEOs in Jonas Warrer for Media and Richard Carter for Platform & Sportsbook with full operational responsibility for each business unit. Richard Brown has been instrumental in making this possible and the Board wants to thank Richard for his valuable contribution to GiG over the years. We are pleased that Richard will be available until year end to secure the succession." Richard Brown says, "GiG is in a tremendous position strategically and operationally, and with Jonas and Richard now in place to drive the business units towards further success, it is a good time for me to move to a supportive but non-operational role until the end of the year." For further information, please contact: Petter Nylander, Chairman of GiG [email protected] +46 76 525 09 55 About Gaming Innovation Group (GiG) Gaming Innovation Group is a leading iGaming technology company, providing solutions, products and services to iGaming Operators. Founded in 2012, Gaming Innovation Group's vision is 'To be the industry leading platform, sportsbook and media provider delivering world class solutions to our iGaming partners and their customers. GiG's mission is to drive sustainable growth and profitability of our partners through product innovation, scalable technology and quality of service. Gaming Innovation Group operates out of Malta and is dual-listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol GIG and on Nasdaq Stockholm under the ticker symbol GIGSEK. www.gig.com SOURCE Gaming Innovation Group HOUSTON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- German intralogistics pioneer Jungheinrich and Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas (Logisnext), a leading North American provider and manufacturer of material handling and innovative automation and fleet solutions, announced today the successful launch of Rocrich AGV Solutions (Rocrich). Marking a significant milestone following the initial joint venture plans announced in June, this collaborative effort strengthens and expands on Jungheinrich's and Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas' existing partnership with over 570 Logisnext dealer locations across North America. Rocrich offers proven mobile automation solutions for warehouses, production facilities and the industry's best service promise with leading local and regional coverage. Through Rocrich, customers and industry partners now have access to a comprehensive suite of mobile automation and robotics solutions spanning all major customer use cases from standard to special purpose AGVs and automated forklifts. This strategic offering within the North American market further builds upon Rocrich's ability to harness Rocla's and Jungheinrich's global industry-leading knowledge and expertise in automation with a continuous stream of innovative products expected in the future. "Today marks an exciting achievement as our strategic vision becomes a reality, launching Rocrich into its operational journey," said Brian Spradlin, President of Rocrich. "This moment highlights our dedication and drive to reshape the material handling industry through innovative mobile automation solutions." In line with Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas' and Jungheinrich's commitment to drive next-generation logistics solutions, Rocrich will ramp-up operations starting this month. Rocrich anticipates adding significant increases in employees across sales, commissioning, installation and aftersales to further enhance the workforce and meet the growing demands of operation. Rocrich will be located at Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas' headquarters in Houston, TX, with a dedicated team of professionals based in Marengo, IL, to ensure efficient and effective operations. Rocrich's operations are also supported by Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas' established dealer network throughout the U.S., Canada and Mexico. To learn more about the joint venture operations and its mobile automation solutions and business plans, please visit rocrich.com. About Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas Inc., and its group companies have helped customers Move The World Forward for more than 100 years. A technology-driven manufacturer, Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas offers scalable solutions from material handling to automation and extensive fleet support. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, its complete portfolio of advanced solutions spans across five leading brands Mitsubishi forklift trucks, Cat lift trucks, Rocla AGV Solutions, UniCarriers Forklifts and Jungheinrich warehouse and automation products. Rocla AGV Solutions is part of Mitsubishi Logisnext group, based in Jarvenpaa, Finland, which operates globally with a highly skilled staff, drawing on over 40 years of experience since 1982. All products are backed by an extensive dealer network offering industry-leading customer service and product support. Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mitsubishi Logisnext Co. Ltd. For more information, visit www.LogisnextAmericas.com. About Jungheinrich As one of the world's leading providers of intralogistics solutions, Jungheinrich has been advancing the development of innovative and sustainable products and solutions for material flows for 70 years. As a pioneer in the sector, the listed family business is committed to creating the warehouse of the future. In the 2022 financial year, Jungheinrich and its workforce of around 20,000 employees generated revenue of 4.76 billion. The global network comprises 12 production plants and service and sales companies in 42 countries. The share is listed on the MDAX. SOURCE Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas - Houston TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, September 18. Uzbekistan and the US signed 12 documents in various fields, at the Uzbek-American business Forum in Washington, Trend reports. The forum was held on September 15 and was attended by the heads of key ministries and departments, industry associations, commercial banks and investment structures of the two countries, as well as heads of large US corporations engaged in the fields of ICT, engineering, agriculture, energy industry, transport, banking and other areas. The event resulted in signing 12 documents of cooperation in the fields of energy, mechanical engineering, ICT, agriculture, financial, technical and scientific cooperation, as well as production of medical and pharmaceutical products. During the event, the parties identified the most promising areas for the implementation of joint investment projects, such as mining, chemical and energy industries, textile industry, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, electronics, information technology, while also emphasizing the rapid dynamics of the development of trade, economic and investment relations between Uzbekistan and the US, which was facilitated by the political will of the leadership, as well as the constant interaction of governments and business circles. As of today, 300 US companies operate in Uzbekistan, which is twice as much as in 2017. Successful cooperation is recorded in various sectors, including automobile manufacturing (General Motors), agricultural machinery (John Deer, CNH), gas production (Air Products), agriculture (Silverleafe) and others. Lopez will support operations for the firm's property management subsidiary, S2 Residential DALLAS, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- S2 Capital ("S2"), a vertically integrated residential investment manager, today announced the hiring of Trey Lopez as Vice President of Operations for the firm's property management subsidiary, S2 Residential, which owns and manages S2's multifamily portfolio across the U.S. Sunbelt. "S2 Residential is dedicated to creating competitive, distinctive and well-maintained apartment communities that residents enjoy, and in tandem with our growing portfolio, our team continues to grow so that we can be fully invested in the success of each community," said Marc Everett, Chief Operating Officer at S2. "We're excited to welcome Trey to the team, and look forward to the property management expertise he will contribute as we continue to provide high-quality communities for our residents." With over eighteen years of experience in multifamily management, Lopez will be responsible for supporting the S2 Residential operations team, which manages multifamily properties in high-growth Arizona, Texas, Florida, Georgia and North Carolina markets. Prior to joining S2, Lopez held Director of Operations and Managing Director roles at multifamily real estate firm Cortland, leading the management of nearly 80 communities totaling over 26,000 homes, after accumulating prior property management experience at Lane Company, Gables Residential, Bell Partners and Pegasus Residential. Lopez holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Georgia, as well as a Certified Property Manager designation from the Institute of Real Estate Management. About S2 Capital Founded in 2012, S2 Capital is a Dallas-based national multifamily investment platform specializing in value-add, opportunistic, and distressed investments. With approximately $10 billion in transaction volume, S2 has acquired about 46,000 units through 134 acquisitions and has successfully invested over $500 million in upgrades and renovations. S2 is vertically integrated, comprised of affiliated businesses, including acquisitions, capital formation, construction, asset management, and operations divisions that work closely together to execute the firm's business plan. The firm concentrates its investments in the U.S. Sunbelt, including Arizona, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Texas, where job and population growth is expected to outpace the national average and contribute to significant renter demand. For more information, visit www.s2cp.com. Media Contacts Lambert: Lisa Baker [email protected] (603) 868-1967 Megan Bowman [email protected] (616) 258-5763 SOURCE S2 Capital CHANGSHA, China, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SANY Group ("SANY") has been named "China's Best Employer" in 2023 by Forbes China, winning the distinguished title for three years in a row. SANY is also the only Chinese equipment manufacturer on the list. This year, SANY has been honored as "China's Best Employer in Innovative Practices for 2023". China's Best Employer in Innovative Practices Forbes China has partnered with global leading consulting firm Rawson Consulting in launching what's one of the most influential rankings on employer branding in the region, about 500 companies participated in this year's annual assessment which surveyed approximately 100,000 people through open applications and questionnaires. The accolade is a recognition of SANY's continuous efforts in boosting the influence of employer branding and outstanding accomplishments in innovative practices, as well as promoting employee development, social responsibility, and sustainability development. Promoting innovation, digitization, and intelligent transformation As people rethink the definition of employer leadership in the era of ever-evolving digital transformation and innovation, the scope of employers' decision-making is expanded to cover strategic planning, team performance, and talent development. Forbes China's survey showed that 83.5 percent of participants said their employers are providing digital technology training to keep up with the latest tech and application trends. Being recognized as "China's Best Employer in Innovative Practices" echoes SANY's significant achievements in digitalization and intelligent transformation, and high investments in R&D and innovation. About 5 percent of SANY's annual sales revenue is dedicated to R&D. Its No. 18 Factory in Changsha is the second certified Lighthouse Factory in the global heavy industry and a benchmark heralding the future of China's heavy machinery industry. SANY has set an ambitious blueprint, that by 2025, it will boost the production value from 170 billion to 300 billion yuan, downsizing the industrial workers from 30,000 to 3,000 while increasing the number of engineers from 5,000 to 30,000. Building a positive environment SANY is committed to inspiring all employees to bring up innovative ideas, and advocating cross-departmental cooperation to promote the sharing of creative knowledge. The group is building an open, inclusive, and united corporate culture to encourage employees to try new things and break new ground, giving full play to their talent and creativity. Fostering talents and innovation SANY's talent-driven strategy includes new employee integration, global elite talent project, all-around skill camp, talent team building, and more to motivate talent to innovate, be entrepreneurial, and create greater values, which keeps the company innovative. Building a better future as a responsible enterprise SANY not only provides premium products, services, and solutions for global customers, but also fulfills corporate social responsibilities centering on achieving sustainable development of the industry, society, and individuals. Its "Blue Envelope" pen-pal initiative focuses on providing psychological support for left-behind children in remote rural areas, the volunteers maintain regular mail communication with the children, and in 15 years, SANY has supported children in 893 schools across China, with more than 1 million letters sent. SOURCE SANY Group Edge Computing Solution Provider Recognized for its Forward-Thinking Technology and Positive Impact on Midsize Business Partners HOUSTON , Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MIDSIZE ENTERPRISE SUMMIT Scale Computing , a market leader in edge computing, virtualization, and hyperconverged solutions, today announced that Midsize Enterprise Services (MES), a brand of The Channel Company, has recognized the company on its 2023 MES Midmarket 100 list. The prestigious list recognizes the top forward-thinking technology providers whose solutions support the growth and innovation of midmarket organizations. Scale Computing was also named to the inaugural MES Matters list in 2022, making this the second consecutive year the company has been recognized as a key vendor serving the midmarket. Winners were selected based on their go-to-market strategy, how they serve the midmarket, and the strength of their midmarket product portfolios. Scale Computing was named to the list for its award-winning solutions that power the growth of its midmarket business partners. Scale Computing Platform (SC//Platform) brings together simplicity and scalability, replacing existing infrastructure and providing high availability for running workloads in a single, easy-to-manage solution. Eliminating complexity, reducing costs, and decreasing management time, SC//Platform delivers faster time to value than competing solutions and enables midsize organizations to run applications in a unified environment that scales from 1 to 50,000 servers. "We are honored to have been named to the exclusive MES Midmarket 100 list. This award is particularly meaningful to us at Scale Computing because it underscores our commitment to our midsize business partners," said Jeff Ready, Scale Computing CEO and co-founder. "With the emergence of edge computing, applications are closer than ever to the people and things interacting with them. Scale Computing makes this possible without sacrificing cloud-like ease of use, scalability, and availability. We enable IT leaders to scale quickly and affordably, which we know is critical for midsize businesses. Our company has long been dedicated to driving growth and supporting innovation among our partners, allowing them to do more profitable and productive work, and our recognition on the MES Midmarket 100 list is a testament to that dedication." Ready will be speaking at this year's Midsize Enterprise Summit Fall event, held September 17th - 19th in Houston, Texas. In his talk, "Moving Beyond VMware: Trust, Innovation, and the Edge The Personal Story Behind Scale Computing," Ready will provide a unique perspective on the future of IT and the role that trust, partnership, and innovation will play in navigating the ever-changing technology landscape. Scale Computing team members will be at booth 401 during the event. The MES Midmarket 100 list recognizes today's biggest IT movers and shakers who've set themselves apart as forward-thinking technology providers that support the growth and innovation of midmarket organizations. Winners were selected based on their consistent commitment to helping the midmarket segment succeed and thrive in today's fast-paced digital economy. "The MES Midmarket 100 list recognizes key vendors that are invested in the growth and development of midmarket organizations. According to National Center for the Middle Market, there are nearly 200,000 U.S middle market businesses that represent one-third of private sector GDP, employing approximately 48 million people," said Adam Dennison, VP Midsize Enterprise Services, The Channel Company. "The midmarket is a major driver of our economy and that's why I'm so proud of the vendors and executives identified on this elite list for their consistent commitment to helping midmarket organizations succeed and thrive. They should be applauded and commended for their dedication to this vital market segment." Scale Computing's recognition to the MES Midmarket 100 list follows the company's fifth-consecutive win of CRN's Annual Report Card (ARC) Award, as well as several other accolades, including CRN's Tech Innovator, Top 100 Executives, Channel Chief, Women of the Channel, and a 5-star rating for the 2023 CRN Partner Program Guide. The MES Midmarket 100 list is featured online at https://www.crn.com/midmarket100. About Scale Computing Scale Computing is a leader in edge computing, virtualization, and hyperconverged solutions. Using patented HyperCore technology, Scale Computing Platform automatically identifies, mitigates, and corrects infrastructure problems in real-time, enabling applications to achieve maximum uptime, even when local IT resources and staff are scarce. Edge Computing is the fastest-growing area of IT infrastructure, and industry analysts have named Scale Computing an outperformer and leader in the space, including being named the #1 edge computing vendor by CRN. Scale Computing's products are sold by thousands of value-added resellers, integrators, and service providers worldwide. When ease-of-use, high availability, and TCO matter, Scale Computing Platform is the ideal infrastructure platform. Read what our customers have to say on Gartner Peer Insights , Spiceworks , G2 , and TrustRadius . SOURCE Scale Computing HIGHLIGHTS 1,000 metres at 2.6% TREO in KGKDD009 with multiple standout intercepts including: 805.26 metres @ 2.90% TREO from 152.85 metres, including 652.41 metres @ 3.0% TREO from 347.59 metres to end of hole (EOH), ~700 metres below base of current resource estimate, including 288 metres @ 3.5% TREO from 711 metres to EOH demonstrating higher grade mineralisation at depth Hole ends in high grade mineralisation The intersection extends about 700 metres vertically below the base of the Mineral Resource Estimate envelope reported in August 2023 Average grade of rare earths critical metal elements neodymium-praseodymium (NdPr) of ~18.2% of TREO In addition to the results from the second deep drill hole, assay results have been received for KGKRCDD083 of 325 metres @2.49% TREO and averaging ~20% NdPr; this has provided valuable information on the undrilled western boundary of the carbonatite, showing that mineralisation extends further west than originally thought (see figure 3) The 2 deep holes drilled demonstrate the massive potential of the Kangankunde mineralised carbonatite system that remains open in all directions including depth A phase 3 drill program has commenced and is designed as an infill program to define a portion of the current resource as Indicated resources for mine development feasibility studies Results of the two deep drill holes will form the basis for an Exploration Target to be published in the near term Update on Kangankunde Stage One Project workstreams are pending. Lindian's Executive Chairman, Asimwe Kabunga commented: "Kangankunde's scale continues to grow and this is attracting the interest of a number of parties seeking to secure offtake from our planned Stage 1 operation. While we continue to advance discussions with a number of parties our efforts are now firmly on mine development works with an update on progress due in the near future. Whilst some follow up exploration is warranted at Kangankunde, which we will do in parallel with mine development works, our immediate focus is infill drilling to support the first stage of mine development. We are well into this workstream and will report on results as we update shareholders on mine development." Lindian's Chief Executive Officer, Alistair Stephens commented: "These assays from the second deep drill hole reinforce all of Kangankande's key characteristics high grade mineralisation consistent across very thick intercepts, a favourable NdPr ratio and a non-radioactive concentrate for transportation. A standout from this hole is the very high grade mineralisation at depth, and the fact that the hole ended at 1,000 metres in mineralisation exceeding 3.2% TREO; This adds to Kangankunde's potential scale and the quality of its mineralisation. We will incorporate these results into our planned Exploration Target for Kangankunde." SYDNEY, Sept. 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Lindian Resources Limited (ASX:LIN) ("Lindian" or "the Company") is pleased to advise of the receipt of assay results from KGKDD009, the second of two holes in the Phase 2 depth extension exploration drilling program, and drill hole KGKRCDD083, at the Kangankunde Rare Earths Project, Malawi. These Phase 2 deep drill holes demonstrate mineralisation extends below the envelope of the maiden Minerals Resource Estimate of 261 million tonnes at 2.19% TREO (refer ASX release dated 3rd August 2023). Figure 1: Section 705375mE showing KGKDD009 results and near surface drill traces with current MRE boundary. Figure 2: Kangankunde central carbonatite geology plan and drilling locations. Kangankunde Rare Earths Project Mineral Resource Above 0.5% TREO Cut-off Grade Resource Classification Tonnes (millions) TREO (%) NdPr% of TREO** (%) Tonnes Contained NdPr* (millions) Inferred Resource 261 2.19 20.2 1.2 Rounding has been applied to 1.0Mt for tonnes and 0.1% NdPr% of TREO which may influence total calculation. Refer competent persons statement * NdPr = Nd 2 O 3 + Pr 6 O 11 , ** NdPrO% / TREO% x 100. DRILLING RESULTS Both holes reported in this release were planned to test the depth extensions of the mineralisation. KGKDD009 was successfully completed to its design dept of 1,000 metres. KGKRCDD083 was stopped at 325 metres due to excessive hole deviation. This hole was mineralised from surface and has provided valuable information on the undrilled western boundary of the carbonatite. KGKDD009 Hole KGKDD009 is a core hole drilled from surface on the northern end of the Kangankunde rare earth deposit central carbonatite. The hole was drilled on an azimuth of 182 at a dip of -65 degrees and designed to test the northern mineralisation of the deposit to a vertical depth of over 1,000 metres below the hilltop surface and 700 metres below the current mineral resource estimate depth limit. (Figure 1). The hole was collared toward the base of the Kangankunde hill. The hole intersected mineralised breccia from surface with the initial 64.82 metre intersection consisting of mixed gneiss and carbonatite breccia averaging 2.04% TREO. This interval was followed by 129.92 metres of wall rock gneiss breccia with intermittent narrow high-grade zones of carbonatite, as veins, or carbonatite clasts within the breccia and averages 1.06% TREO. From 194.74 metres down hole the rock type becomes dominantly carbonatite, initially as a mixed breccia with increasing carbonatite content and rare earth content with depth. This rock type is the main carbonatite core of the deposit and is highly mineralised, averaging 2.89% over 805.26 metre intersection to the end of hole (EOH). The grade increases in tenor and consistency with depth with the lower 288.08 metres from 711.92 metres to 1,000 metres (EOH) averaging 3.50% TREO. Intersection details are listed in Table 1, and a cross section showing this hole with previously reported Phase 1 holes and the current MRE limit is shown in cross section Figure 1 and plan in Figure 3. The variation in TREO grade relative to rock type and the increase in consistency and tenor of grade is demonstrated in Figure 2 below. Table 1 KGKDD009 Intersections Summary Hole ID From (m) To (m) Intersection (m) TREO % NdPrO** ppm NdPrO% of TREO*** Rock Type KGKDD009 0 1,000 1,000 2.60 4,726 18.2 including 0 64.82 64.82 2.04 3,605 17.7 Mixed breccia 64.82 194.74 129.92 1.06 2,303 21.7 Wall rock breccia 194.74 1,000 805.26 2.90 5,199 18.0 Carbonatite including 711.92 1,000 288.08 3.50 6,097 17.4 Carbonatite Bold text entire hole no cut-off applied; internal intersections accumulated based on geological zonation no cutoff applied. ** NdPrO = Nd 2 O 3 + Pr 6 O 11, *** NdPrO% / TREO% x 100 KGKRCDD083 KGKRCDD083 was planned to be drilled from west to east on an azimuth of 090 and dip of -50 degrees. The hole was terminated at 325 metres depth due to excessive hole deviation (Figure 3). This drilling included a 150 metre RC pre-collar that intersected a mineralised carbonatite wall rock breccia (mixed breccia) from surface (the pre-collar has been previously reported as 150 metres @ 2.41% TREO, refer ASX release dated 31 July 2023). This high-grade mineralisation has led to the western boundary of the mineralisation being extended 100 metres to the west of previous interpretation and was included in the current MRE. The core tail drilled from 150 to 325 metres (EOH) is mineralised in a mixed breccia and carbonatite rock types as bands including 132.51 metres at 2.84% TREO from 192.49 metres to EOH. Table 2 KGKRCDD083 Assay intervals Hole ID From (m) To (m) Intersection (m) TREO % NdPrO** ppm NdPrO% of TREO*** Comment KGKRCDD083 0 325 325 2.49 4.913 19.7 % including 0 150 150 2.41 5,338 18.6 % RC precollar**** including 75 102 27 4.16 9,403 19.9 % RC precollar**** then 192.49 325 132.51 2.84 4,935 17.4 % Core tail Bold text entire hole no cut-off applied; internal intersections accumulated at > 2% TREO cut-off. ** NdPrO = Nd 2 O 3 + Pr 6 O 11, *** NdPrO% / TREO% x 100 **** Previousy reported PHASE 2 PROGRAM STATUS All results from the Phase 2 program have been received. Table 3: Completed drill hole sampling and assay status at 18th September 2023 Hole Number Reported ALS Geochemistry (Australia) ALS Geochemistry (South Africa) In transit (Malawi to South Africa) At Kangankunde Site KGKRC083 Pre-collar KGKRC083 Core tail KGKDD009 Core hole KGKRCDD074 Entire hole PHASE 3 DRILLING A phase 3 drill program has commenced and is designed as an infill program to define a portion of the current Inferred Resource as Indicated resources for mine development feasibility studies. This ASX announcement was authorised for release by the Board of Lindian Resources Limited. Competent Person's Statement The information in this Report that relates to drilling, sampling, and assay results is based on information compiled by Mr. Alistair Stephens, who is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM). Mr. Stephens is the Chief Executive Officer of Lindian Resources Limited. Mr. Stephens has sufficient experience relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the 'Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves' (JORC Code). Mr. Stephens consents to the inclusion in this report of the matters based on the information in the form and context in which it appears. Unless otherwise stated, where reference is made to previous releases of exploration results in this announcement, the Company conforms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in those announcements and all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the exploration results included in those announcements continue to apply and have not materially changed. The information in this report that relates to previous Exploration Results was prepared and first disclosed under the JORC Code 2012 and has been properly and extensively cross-referenced in the text to the date of the original announcement to the ASX. The Competent Persons' consents remain in place for subsequent releases by the Company of the same information in the same form and context, until the consents are withdrawn or replaced by a subsequent report and accompanying consent. The Company is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information in the ASX announcement of 3 August 2023 originally referencing its resources estimate, and that all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates continue to apply and have not materially changed. Forward Looking Statements This announcement may include forward-looking statements, based on Lindian's expectations and beliefs concerning future events. Forward-looking statements are necessarily subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside the control of Lindian, which could cause actual results to differ materially from such statements. Lindian makes no undertaking to subsequently update or revise the forward-looking statements made in this announcement, to reflect the circumstances or events after the date of the announcement. About Lindian RARE EARTHS Lindian Resources Limited has ownership of Malawian registered Rift Valley Resource Developments Limited that has 100% title to Exploration Licence EPL0514/18R and Mining Licence MML0290/22, supported by an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Licence No.2:10:16. In August 2023, Lindian released its maiden Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) for the Kangankunde Rare Earths Project in Malawi of 261 million tonnes averaging 2.19% TREO above a 0.5% TREO, refer ASX announcement of 3 August 2023. SOURCE Lindian Resources Select Shake Shack locations take craveable, fried favorites to the next level with Zero Acre oil SAN MATEO, Calif. and NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Zero Acre Farms, a food company focused on delicious, healthy and environmentally friendly cooking oil, today announced a partnership with Shake Shack on a pilot program using Zero Acre oil for frying. Beginning today, two of the fast casual chain's locations in New York City will exclusively fry with Zero Acre oil instead of soybean oil. Zero Acre oil and Shake Shack and Crinkle Cut Fries The tests at the Hudson Yards and Battery Park City Shacks are among the first deployments of Zero Acre oil in the foodservice sector and are part of Shake Shack's ongoing commitment to Stand for Something Good across its operations and in the community. Menu items that will utilize Zero Acre oil include Shake Shack's fan-favorite Crinkle Cut Fries, 'Shroom Burger, Shack Stack, Veggie Shack, Chicken Shack, Chicken Bites and new limited-time Hot Menu items. "Shake Shack has always been in a league of its own, with an iconic brand, deep culinary roots, and premium ingredients at a great value. We're excited to further elevate the taste of their fries, chicken, and other menu items with cleaner frying in Zero Acre oil. This partnership combines the deliciousness that Shake Shack is known for with the health and sustainability focus of Zero Acre, allowing diners to feel good with every bite," said Jeff Nobbs, co-founder and CEO of Zero Acre Farms. "Like many food businesses, our menu items depend on the natural environment so we can continue serving guests the food they love," said Jeffrey Amoscato, Senior Vice President of Supply Chain and Menu Innovation at Shake Shack. "It's why we are continuously exploring new ways to reduce our environmental footprint, including partnerships with companies like Zero Acre who are creating sustainable food solutions. We remain committed to exploring initiatives that help us become a more sustainable business including the reduction of waste across operations, and collaborating with farmers, and suppliers on a regular basis." Zero Acre oil is made from rain-fed sugarcane plants, the world's highest yielding crop, which results in a neutral and versatile cooking oil that performs well in high heat and allows the flavor of ingredients to shine. Home and restaurant chefs love cooking with Zero Acre oil's clean taste and high smoke point for delicious food that can feel lighter and less greasy. Zero Acre oil is high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, which is more stable for frying than the polyunsaturated fats found in most vegetable oils. This pilot is one of the many actions Shake Shack is taking as part of its annual release of their Stand For Something Good Summary . As the second ingredient in most fried foods and the third most consumed food in the world, vegetable oils now account for 20% of American calories, and replacing them with healthier, more environmentally friendly options could have a significant positive impact on human and planetary health. Shake Shack's pilot with Zero Acre oil kicks off during Climate Week NYC, the largest annual climate event of its kind in the U.S., and Shake Shack is the first in the city to offer menu items made with Zero Acre oil. About Zero Acre Farms Zero Acre Farms, a food company focused on delicious, healthy, and environmentally friendly cooking oil, is on a mission to end the food industry's dependence on destructive vegetable oils. Zero Acre Farms was recognized by Fast Company as one of the world's "Most Innovative Companies'' of 2023 for its pioneering, Whole30 Approved, all-purpose cooking oil, which has higher levels of heart-healthy monounsaturated fat than any other oil, a high smoke point, and a clean, neutral taste. The company is backed by an all-star group of investors, chefs, health thought leaders, and changemakers including Lowercarbon Capital, Fifty Years, S2G Ventures, Collaborative Fund, Virgin Group, Chipotle's Cultivate Next Fund, Robert Downey Jr.'s FootPrint Coalition Ventures and others. Visit ZeroAcre.com and follow on Instagram , Facebook and X (Twitter) . About Shake Shack Shake Shack serves elevated versions of American classics using only the best ingredients. It's known for its delicious made-to-order Angus beef burgers, crispy chicken, hand-spun milkshakes, house-made lemonades, beer, wine, and more. With its high-quality food at a great value, warm hospitality, and a commitment to crafting uplifting experiences, Shake Shack quickly became a cult-brand with widespread appeal. Shake Shack's purpose is to Stand For Something Good, from its premium ingredients and employee development, to its inspiring designs and deep community investment. Since the original Shack opened in 2004 in NYC's Madison Square Park, the Company has expanded to over 490 locations system-wide, including over 310 in 32 U.S. States and the District of Columbia, and about 170 international locations across London, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore, Mexico City, Istanbul, Dubai, Tokyo, Seoul and more. Skip the line with the Shack App , a mobile ordering app that lets you save time by ordering ahead! Guests can select their location, pick their food, choose a pickup time and their meal will be cooked-to-order and timed to arrival. Available on iOS and Android. Press Contacts Zero Acre Farms [email protected] Shake Shack [email protected] SOURCE Zero Acre Farms Cleveland Clinic and American Greetings help VeloSano participants recognize their supporters CLEVELAND, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Those who rode in the recent VeloSano Bike to Cure event are making a significant impact in the fight to end cancer, thanks to the thousands who joined to donate and support registered riders, virtual fundraisers and teams. This year, event participants have a new way to share gratitude with their supporters by sending VeloSano "thank you" ecards that are a collaboration between American Greetings and Cleveland Clinic. Cleveland Clinic and American Greetings help VeloSano participants recognize their supporters with new "thank you" ecards. Post-event, riders and virtual fundraisers from this year's VeloSano Bike to Cure event received a new tool to help them express their gratitude to all who donated or supported them in their fundraising efforts. Participants received links to thank you ecards, made possible by Cleveland Clinic and artists at American Greetings, which include messages of thanks and appreciation related to the VeloSano fight to cure cancer and fund lifesaving cancer research at Cleveland Clinic and Cleveland Clinic Children's. Nearly two million people across the country are diagnosed with cancer each year. Much more research must be conducted, and quickly, to find the treatments and cure for this devastating disease. Since its inception in 2014, VeloSano participants have raised more than $37 million to fund cancer research at Cleveland Clinic and advance more than 220 cancer research projects. So far this year, the VeloSano Bike to Cure Cleveland event has raised over $4.6 million, and fundraising continues until October 15. For everyone who wants to end cancer, VeloSano is a global fundraising movement for hope and action, created to swiftly enable the treatments of today and the cures of tomorrow through innovative, transformative cancer research happening at Cleveland Clinic locations around the world. About American Greetings American Greetings is a global leader in the large and enduring Celebrations marketplace. The company helps people celebrate holidays, each other, and all of life's special moments, in-person and online, guided by a mission to "make the world a more thoughtful and caring place every single day." American Greetings offers products wherever and however people wish to purchase them online, in-store, or curbside pickup. Celebrations happen throughout the year, driven by traditional holidays, key milestone moments such as weddings, baby showers, and graduations, as well as recurring everyday events such as birthdays and anniversaries. The company's brands include American Greetings, Papyrus, Recycled Paper Greetings, Paper Rebel, Carlton Cards, Today and Always, DesignWare party goods, and Plus Mark gift wrap and boxed cards. Its digital business unit, AG Interactive, is a leading provider of digital greetings and premium Celebrations content through proprietary technology platforms and apps. Our popular digital brands include American Greetings, Blue Mountain, SmashUps, justWink, Pics & Wishes and Creatacard. For more information, visit corporate.americangreetings.com and follow American Greetings @AmericanGreetings on Facebook and @amgreetings on Instagram. About Cleveland Clinic Cleveland Clinic is a nonprofit multispecialty academic medical center that integrates clinical and hospital care with research and education. Located in Cleveland, Ohio, it was founded in 1921 by four renowned physicians with a vision of providing outstanding patient care based upon the principles of cooperation, compassion and innovation. Cleveland Clinic has pioneered many medical breakthroughs , including coronary artery bypass surgery and the first face transplant in the United States. U.S. News & World Report consistently names Cleveland Clinic as one of the nation's best hospitals in its annual "America's Best Hospitals" survey. Among Cleveland Clinic's 77,000 employees worldwide are more than 5,658 salaried physicians and researchers, and 19,000 registered nurses and advanced practice providers, representing 140 medical specialties and subspecialties. Cleveland Clinic is a 6,699-bed health system that includes a 173-acre main campus near downtown Cleveland, 23 hospitals, more than 275 outpatient facilities, including locations in northeast Ohio; southeast Florida; Las Vegas, Nevada; Toronto, Canada; Abu Dhabi, UAE; and London, England. In 2022, there were 12.8 million outpatient encounters, 303,000 hospital admissions and observations, and 270,000 surgeries and procedures throughout Cleveland Clinic's health system. Patients came for treatment from every state and 185 countries. Visit us at clevelandclinic.org . Follow us at twitter.com/ClevelandClinic . News and resources available at newsroom.clevelandclinic.org. SOURCE American Greetings New loyalty app is a first for 87-year-old brand HOUSTON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Shipley Do-Nuts, one of the nation's largest do-nut brands, is offering guests sweet incentives with its first-ever loyalty program, Do-Happy Rewards, at all 340-plus locations. Shipley Do-Nut Exterior (PRNewsfoto/Shipley Do-Nuts) Everyone who joins the program will instantly be awarded two free signature glazed do-nuts. Do-Happy Rewards members earn five points for every $1 they spend to unlock rewards that range from free do-nuts and kolaches to Shipley merchandise and 99-cent coffees. The more points reward members earn, the higher their membership level, leading to more exclusive offers and discounts. The app also allows for easy, streamlined online ordering for pickup or delivery. "We began testing Do-Happy Rewards in early 2023 in our company-owned shops, and it was well received, with strong initial sign-ups and positive consumer feedback that told us there's a real appetite for the program," said Shipley Do-Nuts CEO Flynn Dekker. "With this launch, we can thank our devoted guests the best way we know how with free do-nuts, merch and other menu items while offering simpler online ordering and driving business for our franchisees." Guests can join the program by downloading the Shipley app from the App Store or Google Play Store or signing up online. As of Sept. 1, Do-Happy Rewards had more than 40,000 members who are spending 60% more than non-loyalty members. Rewards members also visited about twice a month as the program rolled out. The new loyalty program is the latest of many tech upgrades for the 87-year-old brand as it prepares to nearly double in size over the next five years. It has also launched a new website, rolled out online ordering and third-party delivery, and implemented a digital training platform. The company recently opened new territories for development in Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri and Ohio and is actively recruiting franchisees in Colorado, Oklahoma, Florida and throughout the Southeast. For more information on franchising, visit ownashipleydonuts.com. ABOUT SHIPLEY DO-NUTS Founded in 1936, Houston-based Shipley Do-Nuts is a leading do-nut restaurant franchisor and manufacturer of specialty food products. Shipley franchises over 340 restaurants to a diverse group of operators across 12 states and has served its do-nuts, kolaches and beverages to generations of guests. Shipley is ranked No. 131 on Entrepreneur magazine's Franchise 500 2023 list, the highest in its category. For information on franchising, visit ownashipleydonuts.com. Media Contact: Ashley Lennington, SPM Communications [email protected] 214-379-7000 SOURCE Shipley Do-Nuts PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sila Services, LLC announced that it recently acquired two leading Midwest HVAC services companies. Cleveland Air Comfort Corporation, located in Cleveland, OH, and Carlson Heating, Cooling & Electric Company, based in Glenview, IL, are now part of Sila Services' growing family of companies. These strategic investments in two great teams accelerates Sila's growth in the Midwest region and strengthens its position as a regionally-focused, best-in-industry operating platform for residential HVAC, plumbing and electrical services. "We are delighted to welcome the teams at Cleveland Air Comfort and Carlson Heating, Cooling & Electric, along with their loyal customers, into the Sila Services family," said Jason Rabbino, CEO of Sila Services, LLC. "Both organizations are perfectly aligned with our mission of delivering top-quality home services solutions and exceptional customer experiences through a focus on world-class people. It's an exciting time for Sila Services in the Midwest as we continue to leverage attractive opportunities to expand our team with top talent and accelerate our ability to serve customers with a distinctive set of integrated offerings. Cleveland Air and Carlson are great businesses that seamlessly complement our market-leading brands at Jackson Comfort Services in Ohio and AA Service Company in Illinois." About Sila Services Sila Services is a leading home services platform, operating 21 brands across 28 company locations throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwest. The companies of Sila Services, with a history of service excellence dating back to the early 1900s, offer a complete range of residential and commercial services in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, water treatment, and indoor air quality. The company's foundations are based upon building the best service and installation teams and empowering them to deliver distinctive repair, replacement, and maintenance services that ensure truly outstanding customer satisfaction. Contact: Andrew Moffatt 610.491.9409 [email protected] SOURCE Sila Services, LLC VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Silver Valley Metals Corp. (TSXV: SILV) (OTCQB: SVMFF) ("Silver Valley" or the "Company"), a brownfield exploration Company with two potential high impact projects that comprise silver-zinc-lead located in north Idaho, USA and lithium - potassium (sulphate of potash) located in Zacatecas and San Luis Potosi, Mexico respectively, is pleased to provide a corporate update for both of its high priority projects: the MexiCan Lithium-Potassium (sulphate of potash) Project ("the Mexico-Canada Project" or "MexiCan Project") and the Ranger-Page silver-zinc-lead Project in the Silver Valley ("the Ranger-Page Project"). Figure 1: Long section view showing the location exposed Crown Point mineralization relative to existing mine workings (CNW Group/Silver Valley Metals Corp.) Figure 2: Gossan discovered in the Crown Point fault zone. (CNW Group/Silver Valley Metals Corp.) MexiCan Project: As previously announced May 10, 2023, Silver Valley entered discussions with LitioMX, (the national lithium company of Mexico), with the goal of these discussions to ultimately formalize a partnership agreement to explore and produce lithium in Mexico. Silver Valley maintains its 100% ownership of the Potassium Sulphate ("sulphate of potash" or "SOP") component of the dual commodity MexiCan Lithium-Potassium Project. Discussions are active and advancing with LitioMX, and near-term plans are in place to come together to potentially finalize a partnership agreement. The Company will update shareholders' when and if there is material news to report. Highlights of the Project include: Significant grades of lithium, potassium sulphate, and boron are located on surface in unconsolidated sediments; the unique character of the project may contribute positively to future sustainable, and cost-effective extraction methods due to its unique sediment makeup. The brine potential has not been tested to date; the Company has reported highly elevated levels of potassium in water in perforated PVC columns emplaced in the salars where recharge of the water is measured and the mineral content of the water is measured potassium in water readings averaged 13,000 mg/L with measurements up to 27,000 mg/L these results are indicative that the potassium in the sediments is liberating itself which may be an indicator of potassium in the brine at depth or minimally, the separation of potassium from the sediments. Deep basin large aquifer brine potential defined by regional geophysics surveys, remains to be tested. The inferred resource has been tested from surface to an average 5 metres depth; the Company anticipates the sediment basin could range from 40 metres to greater than 100 metres deep, so the prospect of expanding the sediment resource at depth is substantial. 12.3 million tonnes of Potassium Sulphate and 243,000 tonnes of Lithium Carbonate Equivalent ("LCE") (1) defined thus far; contemplating today's spot prices, the in-situ value in the first five metres of the deposit(s) is already significant. On the ground community support the team in Mexico has continued exemplary work from inception through to the present day, notwithstanding the times the project has been delayed for circumstances out of the Company's control. The importance of the community supporting our project cannot be overstated. Excellent infrastructure in place, including abundance of skilled labour, an international airport, modern highways, railways, and sufficient power. Ranger-Page Project: Exploration at the Ranger-Page project has been active throughout the summer with a 24-hour per day project-wide trenching program targeting numerous prospective areas at the project which were defined from its inaugural 2022 exploration program. More than 3 kilometres were trenched, including new road building for drilling access and drill platform preparations. The trenching program was recently concluded for the year. Field mapping, geochemical assaying, further groundwork, and geological modelling are continuing to define and refine drill targets. Further news will be released as the Company receives and compiles the data. The Company anticipates several high priority drill-ready targets to be prioritized in the coming month. Recently, Silver Valley released first results from the summer trenching program at the Crown Point Mine area of the project which was a discovery of two significant vein structures on surface extending the Crown Point mine along strike to the west. See June 28, 2023, press release: https://silvervalleymetals.com/2023/06/28/silver-valley-metals-announces-discovery-of-mineralized-vein-structures-at-surface-extending-crown-point-mine-220-metres-west-at-the-ranger-page-project-north-idaho-usa/ Highlights of the discovery are: Crown Point mineralization discovered at surface extending historic Crown Point mine 220 meters to the west. to the west. Discovery located 1,000 meters west from the Bunker Hill Mine. The Crown Point structural zone discovery defined up to 16 metres wide . . Within the structural zone an east-west trending mineralized vein structure up to 2.5 meters wide and steeply dipping south identified. vein structure up to and steeply dipping south identified. A second north trending mineralized vein structure identified within the structural zone measuring up to 2.87 meters wide and steeply dipping to the southeast. vein structure identified within the structural zone measuring up to and steeply dipping to the southeast. Discovery on surface is approximately 75 metres up dip from the depth of the historic Crown Point mine. from the depth of the historic Crown Point mine. The structural orientations are typical of the Coeur d'Alene mining district and are consistent with the geologic modeling, mapping, and ground IP results conducted by the Company. Link to Website: http://www.silvervalleymetals.com Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/silvervalmetals Twitter: https://twitter.com/silvervalmetals Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silvervalmetals Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/silvervalmetals YouTube: https://youtube.com/@silvervalmetals References: (1) To review the NI-43-101and inferred resource referred to in this press release please click: https://silvervalleymetals.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/kmax-ni43-101.pdf Report title: NI43-101 Technical Report On The Organimax Salar Sediment Deposits, Mexico; Author: SRK Consulting; Date of Submission: February, 2019 Qualified person: Timothy Mosey, BSc, MSc, SME, is the qualified person for the company and qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Martin Pittuck, CEng, MIMMM, FGS, is responsible for the Mineral Resource statement and is an "independent qualified person" as such term is defined in NI 43-101. About: MexiCan Lithium - Potassium (sulphate of potash) Project: Silver Valley Metals Corp. owns a 100% interest in a lithium and potassium bearing salar complex comprising 4,056 hectares on three mineral concessions ("the Mexico-Canada Project" or "MexiCan Project") located on the Central Mexican Plateau in the states of Zacatecas, and San Luis Potosi, Mexico. The NI 43-101 inferred mineral resource contains 12.3Mt of Sulfate of Potash (SOP) and 243,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) and remains open in all directions for expansion. About: Ranger-Page project: The Ranger-Page Project ("The Project") is in the Silver Valley, northern Idaho, USA, 60 kilometres east of Coeur d'Alene and 1 kilometre from the I-90 freeway. In 2020 Idaho was ranked the first in the world in policy perception and 9th best mining jurisdiction (Fraser Institute Annual Mining Survey). The Project borders the famous Bunker Hill Mine to the east and for the first time consolidates the western extent of the prolific Silver Valley mining corridor by one operator in the past 100+ years. The Project comprises 6 historical mines on patented claims, without royalties. The largest of these, the Page Mine, was a top ten producer in the Silver Valley yielding over 1.1 billion pounds of zinc and lead and 14.6 million ounces of silver. The Page Mine has high grade silver-zinc-lead historic reserves and remains open at depth and along strike beyond what has been identified to date. Historical mining on the properties have shared underground infrastructure from the larger Page mine to the Blackhawk mine. The Company has underground mining data and surface geological data that supports high grade silver-zinc-lead mineralization present within the shallow, undeveloped mines. These mines remain open at depth, and laterally along strike. Exploration potential beyond the historic mines is considered significant as modern systematic exploration is being applied to the project for the first time. About: Silver Valley Metals: Silver Valley Metals Corp. is a Canadian exploration company comprised of a group of experienced exploration, mining, and financing specialists focused on the pursuit of mineral discovery and development. We are focused on the advancement of strategic and precious mineral properties including Lithium-Potash in Mexico and Silver-Zinc-Lead in northern Idaho, USA. On behalf of the Board of Directors of Silver Valley Metals, "Brandon Rook" Brandon Rook, President & CEO, Director THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; risks related to the outcome of legal proceedings; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. 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. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections. SOURCE Silver Valley Metals Corp. TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, September 18. Uzbekistans Centrum Air will launch regular flights between Uzbekistan's Tashkent and Kyrgyzstan's Bishkek, Trend reports. The carrier appointed for this route will deliver passengers, cargo and mail between the capitals of the two countries on a contractual basis. This is not the first Kyrgyz destination served by a private airline, as the launch of weekly charter tourist flights from Tashkent to Kyrgyzstans Issyk-Kul was announced in July this year. Meanwhile, the number of Kyrgyz tourists visiting Uzbekistan from January through July 2023 amounted to 912,800, which comprises approximately 24 percent of the whole tourist inflow in the country (3.7 million). As per data provided by Uzbekistan's Agency of Statistics, this is a near 35-percent increase compared to the same period in 2022 (more than 650,000 tourists). "Feeding the hungry is at the core of our philanthropic efforts," said Jonathan Toms, senior community development manager for Smithfield Foods. "Each year, our Smithfield team members demonstrate through our Hunger Action Month food drive that they believe in our mission to fight hunger and food insecurity. It is remarkable to see how passionately they give back to support the communities we call home." "We are incredibly thankful to Smithfield and their team members for their generous contributions, both during Hunger Action Month and throughout the year," said Joe Weeden, senior director, commodity foods for Feeding America. "Our efforts to feed our neighbors facing food insecurity would not be possible without our partners like Smithfield. These donations of nonperishable food items, along with Smithfield's frequent donations of protein, go a long way in helping the Feeding America network address hunger across the country." Feeding America estimates approximately one in six people turned to charitable food assistance for additional support in 2022. A recent Feeding America survey found that 80% of network food banks reported either increased or steady demand for emergency food services in June 2023. Smithfield supports Feeding America's network of food banks throughout the year with its signature hunger-relief initiative program, Helping Hungry Homes. Since 2008, the program has provided hundreds of millions of protein servings to fight hunger in all 50 U.S. states, as well as in Poland, Romania and Mexico. In 2022, Smithfield donated nearly 25 million servings of protein to food banks, disaster relief efforts and community outreach programs across the U.S. and has pledged to donate 200 million servings of protein by 2025. About Smithfield Foods, Inc. Headquartered in Smithfield, Virginia, since 1936, Smithfield Foods, Inc. is a U.S. food company that employs nearly 60,000 people in seven countries and partners with thousands of American farmers. As one of the world's leading vertically integrated protein companies, we are dedicated to producing "Good food. Responsibly." to feed a growing world population. We have pioneered sustainability standards for more than two decades, including our industry-leading commitments to become carbon negative in our U.S. company-owned operations and reduce GHG emissions 30% across our entire U.S. value chain by 2030. We believe in the power of protein to end food insecurity and have donated hundreds of millions of food servings to food banks, disaster relief efforts and community outreach programs in all 50 U.S. states. Smithfield boasts a portfolio of high-quality iconic brands, such as Smithfield, Eckrich, Gwaltney and Nathan's Famous, among many others. For more information, visit www.smithfieldfoods.com and connect with us on Facebook , X , formerly known as Twitter, LinkedIn , Instagram and Threads . About Feeding America Feeding America is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States. Through a network of more than 200 food banks, 21 statewide food bank associations, and over 60,000 partner agencies, food pantries and meal programs, we helped provide 5.2 billion meals to tens of millions of people in need last year. Feeding America also supports programs that prevent food waste and improve food security among the people we serve; brings attention to the social and systemic barriers that contribute to food insecurity in our nation; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Visit www.feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter. SOURCE Smithfield Foods, Inc. WINTER PARK, Fla., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sonobi, in its persistent pursuit of growth, is enhancing its team with a prominent name in the Advertising & CTV/ OTT space, Craig Schwarz, who will serve as Senior Vice President of CTV. Craig brings over 20 years of extensive experience across various media channels, including, Linear, Digital, CTV/OTT/Video, Social, Programmatic, and Cross-Platform advertising, making him a valuable asset to Sonobi's strategic framework. Sonobi Strengthens CTV Advertising Division with Notable New Hire, Senior Vice President of CTV: Craig Schwarz Craig's involvement in the CTV space dates back to its inception and his profound industry knowledge is complemented by a vast network of client, agency, and business relationships across North America. His arrival signals a significant boost to Sonobi's CTV advertising efforts. Schwarz reflected on his decision to join the company by stating: "My experience as a client with Sonobi left a lasting impression. Their unwavering commitment to being client-centric, combined with their stellar reputation in the market along with an exceptional team, made it an easy choice for me. I'm excited to be a part of a company that not only values its clients but also consistently delivers top-notch service." Experience & Innovation During his 14-year tenure at Havas, Craig played a pivotal role in shaping the agency's media landscape. As the Director of Havas' Short Form Media Group, he doubled the Short Form Business Unit's revenue from $250 million to over $500 million. He excelled in structuring and managing agency deals and contributed significantly to successful new business pitches and wins. At Havas, Schwarz was instrumental in fostering industry relationships, hosting media summits for publishers and ad tech players to engage directly with his team and the agency. His innovative leadership also drove the rapid expansion of the Edge CTV/OTT offering, with the business revenue soaring from zero to $30 million in just 18 months. Craig's extensive experience and leadership have left an indelible mark on the industry. As Vice President at MediaMath, Schwarz assumed a pivotal role in establishing strategic partnerships with agencies, brands, and marketers significantly shaping the company's CTV sales strategy. Working closely with product and leadership teams, he orchestrated the growth of CTV while optimizing buy-side strategies. Schwarz's influence extended to championing data integration and measurement standards, both internally and externally, contributing to a more robust and accountable CTV advertising ecosystem. His dedication to the CTV space also manifested in his facilitation of marketing materials and initiatives, driving MediaMath's presence in this rapidly evolving landscape. Craig's impact extended beyond internal operations as he collaborated with partners to expand programmatic inventory access across diverse distribution points, solidifying MediaMath's position as a programmatic leader in the CTV realm. His strategic insights weren't limited to CTV, as he provided valuable guidance in the linear space, supporting MediaMath's Client Services teams in delivering exceptional solutions to agency and brand clients. Schwarz's tenure as Vice President at MediaMath was characterized by innovation, collaboration, and a relentless commitment to success within the ever-evolving advertising technology industry. Elevating Growth & Innovation Schwarz's arrival at Sonobi marks a strategic vision to fortify the business's sales strategy and leadership. He brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation, driven by a genuine enthusiasm for shaping the company's vision of success. Craig details his excitement by stating, "I'm thrilled to be a part of Sonobi's journey in ad tech. We're paving the way for agencies to seamlessly access premium CTV inventory. Sonobi's decade-long commitment to nurturing publisher relationships ensures we lead with efficiency, affordability, and precision in data. As your trusted supply partner, we're poised to elevate your In-App, Mobile, and Desktop (Video and Display) campaigns to new heights." Capitalizing on his extensive network and connections, Schwarz aims to create a more profound impact on the company's growth and success. Collaborating closely with Sonobi's current leaders, who share a harmonious business philosophy, excites him. Together, they aim to establish ambitious goals and achieve them as Sonobi expands, laying the foundation for long-term impact. Schwarz places a premium on client-centricity and ethical practices, unwavering in his commitment to exploring innovative approaches. Michael Connolly, CEO of Sonobi, expressed his enthusiasm about Craig Schwarz joining the team, saying, "Craig's exceptional track record and unwavering commitment to excellence make him the perfect addition to our organization. His leadership will play a pivotal role in driving our company's development initiatives, and we are eager to leverage his expertise as we continue to chart our path towards greater success." About Sonobi Sonobi is an independent, consumer-focused technology company that provides a fair and equitable media marketplace to connect advertisers directly with individuals. Sonobi's JetStream technology is transforming the business of traditional impression-based advertising to individual-based advertising. By unifying comScore's top 250 premium media properties and fortune 500 advertisers, Sonobi's JetStream platform enables publishers and marketers to directly collaborate in order to create and deliver superior addressable communication plans for the people who matter most consumers. Learn more at: www.sonobi.com CONTACT INFORMATION: Sonobi Edoardo Morera 484-894-6798 [email protected] SOURCE Sonobi SHENZHEN, China, Sept. 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SPACEMAN, a pioneering vaping brand, recently showcased its latest product, the SPACEMAN 10K Pro. Powered by industry leaders SMOK, the latest vape product was on show at the Alternative Products Expo in Las Vegas, held from Sep 14th to Sep 16th. The event draws a diverse mix of industry professionals and companies, and by bringing the alternative community together, seeks to provide an immersive and unique opportunity for networking and business expansion for smoke shop professionals around the world. Just like real spacemen pushing the boundaries of space, the brand is here to push the limits of vaping innovation. SMOK, a vaping industry expert with 13 years of industry experience, has pushed its products to the forefront of disposable vaping innovation by adopting the perfect blend of cutting-edge technology and user-centered design. At this expo, the new product SPACEMAN 10k Pro has greatly attracted the attention of customers, peers, merchants and distributors around the world. SPACEMAN 10k Pro has broken the design standard of conventional disposable vaping products, not only visually adopts a more eye-catching fuselage design by making full use of sandblasted laser engraving oxidation technique that stands out from the crowd, but also has a more intuitive and intelligent operation experience than conventional disposable vaping products, the smart screen allows you to see the e-liquid indicator and battery indicator more directly, getting rid of the anxiety that conventional disposable vaping products cannot intuitively visualize the remaining e-liquid and battery status. The SPACEMAN 10k Pro vaping product offers a comprehensive set of features that address key indicators of efficacy, including smoke volume, security, and stability: Enhanced Longevity: With an impressive capacity of 10,000 puffs, the SPACEMAN 10k Pro eliminates the need for frequent replacements. This extended lifespan ensures a continuous and satisfying vaping experience, allowing users to explore a wide range of flavors and sensations without interruptions. Pro eliminates the need for frequent replacements. This extended lifespan ensures a continuous and satisfying vaping experience, allowing users to explore a wide range of flavors and sensations without interruptions. Safety Features: The SPACEMAN 10k Pro incorporates advanced safeguards, including over-time protection and short-circuit protection. These safety measures enhance the overall security of the device, providing users with peace of mind during their vaping sessions. Pro incorporates advanced safeguards, including over-time protection and short-circuit protection. These safety measures enhance the overall security of the device, providing users with peace of mind during their vaping sessions. Reliable Stability: Equipped with a built-in 800mAh rechargeable battery, the SPACEMAN 10k Pro ensures a stable and consistent power supply. This feature allows for prolonged vaping sessions without compromising performance, maintaining a reliable and enjoyable experience for users. By addressing these three important indicators, the SPACEMAN 10k Pro vaping product aims to deliver a high-quality and reliable vaping experience, offering longevity, safety, and stability to users. In addition, the SPACEMAN 10k Pro also has the following features: Digital Display Screen 10+ Flavors Pre-Filled 16ml Tank 0.7ohm Meshed Coils( The Purest Flavor Satisfaction and Intense Vapor Production) MTL(mouth-to-lung) & RDL( restricted-direct-lung) Airflow Control Light Weight & Portable Type-C Fast Charging Anti Leak Technology Button-free Operation During the three-day exhibition, the SPACEMAN brand successfully attracted exhibitors and visitors from around the world. By distributing samples and trial packages, the brand maximized its on-site exposure, leading to a highly effective promotional impact. The event served as a platform for concentrated brand promotion and allowed attendees to experience the products firsthand, leaving a lasting impression. Furthermore, SPACEMAN leveraged social media platforms before and after the exhibition to enhance brand recall and engagement. By utilizing these channels, the brand effectively extended its reach beyond the event, creating a lasting memory and fostering continued interest among consumers. For more information, please visit https://www.spacemans.com Stay connected and informed by following us on Instagram @spaceman.vape Media inquiries can be directed to: [email protected] SOURCE Spaceman CatAI developed a solution that extracts medical data through a smartphone camera, solving technical challenges faced by remote patient monitoring systems TEL AVIV, Israel, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Start-Up Nation Central, a leading nonprofit organization promoting Israeli innovation globally, announced that CatAI won its inaugural Hospital2Hospital Tech Challenge in cooperation with Baptist Health Innovations, part of Baptist Health South Florida, Sheba ARC Innovation, and Triventures. CatAI's pioneering technology stood out for its exceptional potential to transform patient care and hospital efficiency. The five finalists of Hospital2Hospital Clinical Capacity Tech Challenge: CatAI, Bio-fence, LiST, Verame and Droxi with the judges of the challenge from Start-Up Nation Central, Baptist Health South Florida, Sheba ARC Innovation, and Triventures (Credit: Vered Farkash) Hospitals worldwide grapple with various complex issues, including rising demand for healthcare services, constrained budgets, and a limited pool of skilled healthcare professionals. These challenges indicate the critical need for healthcare facilities to invest in cutting-edge technologies, optimize administrative workflows, and encourage teamwork among medical staff. CatAI was chosen from among 106 companies competing in the challenge and will receive a $75,000 in-kind pilot credit to work with Baptist Health Innovations, and further develop their solution to enter the U.S. market. The company will also receive professional consulting from ARC Sheba health experts and Triventures, a global early-stage fund that invests in innovative healthcare. CatAI's digital healthcare platform extracts medical data through a smartphone camera, solving technical challenges faced by remote patient monitoring systems. By harnessing AI and machine learning, it facilitates patient engagement and efficient data transmission to care management teams, enhancing patient outcomes. The list of top companies in the challenge is available here, and The five finalists of the tech challenge were: Bio-fence, Droxi, LiST Funding, VeraMed and CatAI. This groundbreaking initiative, in collaboration with Baptist Health Innovations, ARC Innovation at Sheba Medical Center, and Triventures, aimed to revolutionize healthcare delivery and clinical capacity through innovative solutions. Priority was given to solutions providing direct, measurable impact and immediate cost-effectiveness, thereby improving patient outcomes. "The Hospital2Hospital Tech Challenge represents a pivotal step in leveraging Israeli innovation to address critical healthcare challenges," said Start-Up Nation Central CEO, Avi Hasson. "This initiative aligns with our mission to foster collaboration between hospitals, startups, and healthcare multinationals for meaningful impact and implementation of innovative solutions. By applying tech to real-world healthcare needs, we aim to drive tangible improvements in patient care and operational efficiency." "Congratulations to the Challenge winner CatAI on their exceptional technology that will drive innovation and impact efficiencies within our organization," said Mark Coticchia, vice president of Innovations, Baptist Health South Florida. "We'd like to thank our partners at Start-Up Nation Central, ARC Sheba, Triventures and each Israeli start-up that participated in this Challenge. Their ingenuity and value propositions far exceeded our high expectations. We look forward to exploring an expanded collaboration with CatAI and with many of the high-trajectory participants." "Technology is the driving force of healthcare transformation. Hospitals around the globe are implementing cutting-edge solutions such as AI, machine learning, and remote care technology developed by startups. We are proud to partner with Start-Up Nation Central, Baptist Health Innovations, and Triventures for this important initiative and transform the future of health," said Prof. Eyal Zimlichman, Chief Transformation Officer and Chief Innovation Officer at Sheba Medical Center | Director and Founder of ARC Innovation. The success of the Hospital2Hospital Tech Challenge reinforces the importance of cross-border collaboration to foster innovation in healthcare and marks a significant step towards creating a more efficient, patient-centered, and technologically advanced healthcare system. The Tech Challenge attracted a diverse array of innovative Israeli startups, each addressing critical healthcare challenges. The five finalists showcased groundbreaking solutions with significant potential for resolving pressing challenges facing healthcare systems: Droxi's smart AI physician inbox addresses the challenge of EHR inboxes, reducing the time spent on messages such as prescriptions and medical advice requests. Its AI provides context, saving time and reducing burnout. With a seamlessly integrated solution, it saves 50% of task time, allowing providers to see more patients and enhance patient care. Verame's collaboration platform streamlines patient care management, addressing the administrative burden on medical teams. It integrates into daily workflows, capturing real-time patient care data and essential information. This empowers medical teams and billing teams alike, bridging the gap between patient care and financial aspects. LiST specializes in predicting medical outcomes for the aging population, focusing on health events and comorbidities. This predictive healthcare solution aids risk assessment in preventive care, long-term care, and insurance, offering personalized insights derived from individual medical history analysis. Bio-fence's "OxiLast" transparent and safe film-forming product addresses hospital-acquired infections. Applied to high-touch surfaces, it stabilizes and prolongs antimicrobial effects, reducing antibiotic-resistant bacteria. OxiLast's pre-clinical effectiveness presents a promising modality for improving hospital room hygiene. CatAI's digital healthcare platform extracts medical data through a smartphone camera, solving technical challenges faced by remote patient monitoring systems. By harnessing AI and machine learning, it facilitates patient engagement and efficient data transmission to care management teams, enhancing patient outcomes. About the partners: Start-Up Nation Central is a non-profit organization that connects Israeli innovation to the world in order to help international entities solve global challenges. Focusing on the Israeli technology ecosystem, we provide a platform that nurtures business growth and generates partnerships with key countries, multinational companies, and organizations to strengthen Israel's economy and society. For more information, visit: https://startupnationcentral.org/ South Florida-based Baptist Health is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 27,000 employees, 4,000 physicians and 200 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning across Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned institutes specializing in cancer care, brain and spine care, heart and vascular care and orthopedic care. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and The Baptist Health PineApp, a virtual health platform. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and is the most awarded healthcare system in South Florida by U.S. News and World Report. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn. ARC Innovation encompasses a global ecosystem that aims to develop, pilot, and roll out game-changing solutions. It prioritizes innovations in digital health as its main change vehicle and fosters an open innovation environment. Our goal is to have a meaningful, measurable impact on healthcare by 2030. To this end, we unite leading academic medical centers with innovative startups and strategic industry partners to promote accelerated development and implementation through the sharing of data and streamlined collaborations. Together we will change the future of health. https://arc.sheba.co.il/ Triventures is a global, early-stage fund that invests in exceptional entrepreneurs. We partner with disruptive ventures with innovative breakthroughs in healthcare and beyond. Our vision is to create a better, healthier future through data-driven solutions and cross-industry convergence. https://www.triventures.vc/ Photo -https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2213602/Start_Up_Nation_Central_SNC.jpg SOURCE Start-Up Nation Central (SNC) MADISON, Wis., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- StreamText is pleased to announce the latest release of Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) technology powered by artificial intelligence (AI). With the ability to create captions directly from an audio source, StreamText ASR features term glossaries to help finetune captioning AI for specific events and increase overall accuracy. The platform offers direct integrations with meeting software such as Zoom and Adobe Connect. It also supports over 50 source languages, including variants of English, French, and Spanish. Learn more about StreamText's ASR capabilities at https://streamtext.net/automatic-captions/ . While the quality of human captioning is often more accurate than AI counterparts, it may not always apply to all captioning needs. In these cases, StreamText ASR is a great solution. ASR is useful in university settings, classrooms, government administration, and broadcast media. StreamText releases the latest version of Automatic Speech Recognition Caption Technology powered by AI. Post this Nick Wilkie, CEO of StreamText, states, "Providing the best captioning solution for our customers requires having market-leading AI options. In many cases, human-generated captions are not always practical, and having additional options, including Automatic Speech Recognition, allows for more events to be accessible for all participants." As the industry-leading enterprise solution for all realtime caption requirements, StreamText invites all interested parties to schedule a demo with their team to learn more: https://streamtext.net/contact/ . About StreamText StreamText, the leading enterprise caption platform, was founded in 2003 by Anson Goldade to service the growing market need for accessibility and text streaming services. StreamText can support human and AI-based caption generation workflows to ensure accessibility at events, in the classroom, and more. Their team ensures that every spoken word is accessible through cutting-edge technology and innovation. Realtime captions and translations, when and where you need them. Learn more about StreamText and its full range of solutions by visiting https://streamtext.net/ . Contact: Nick Wilkie Chief Executive Officer Madison, WI [email protected] SOURCE StreamText The "Ion Exchange Materials: Technologies and Global Markets" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. DUBLIN, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The global ion exchange materials market is set to expand significantly, reaching an estimated value of $4.8 billion by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9% from 2023 to 2028. This comprehensive report provides detailed insights into the ion exchange materials industry, covering ion exchange resins/beads and membranes, applications, and regional markets. It also delves into the regulatory landscape and government programs influencing the market, with a focus on North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World (RoW). The report emphasizes the use of ion exchange materials in various applications, including energy generation and storage (fuel cell systems, water electrolysis systems, redox flow batteries), water technologies (electrodialysis, ultrapure water generation, water softening, demineralization, wastewater treatment), separation and chemicals production (chlor-alkali processes, ion exchange chromatography, chemical catalysis, metal extraction and purification), power generation and electricity (condensate polishing, nuclear waste remediation), food production (sugar production, beverage production), and pharmaceutical production (drug delivery, isolation and purification of biochemical substances). Fuel cells are gaining traction as clean energy solutions due to low carbon emissions and high energy efficiency, making them a significant driver for ion exchange materials in energy generation applications. Governments, industries, and consumers are increasingly adopting fuel cells to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, further boosting the market. Ion exchange materials are also essential in hydrogen storage and delivery systems, enhancing hydrogen adsorption and desorption kinetics in applications like metal hydrides. Ion exchange membranes facilitate safe and efficient hydrogen transport in fueling and distribution systems. Despite the immense potential, challenges such as regulatory compliance and adherence to water quality standards may hinder market growth. Water treatment applications, including desalination, water softening, and contaminant removal, create significant opportunities, particularly in regions facing water challenges like the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The Asia-Pacific region, with its growing economies and increasing energy demand, is witnessing substantial developments in the ion exchange materials market. Countries like China, Japan, South Korea, and India are actively promoting hydrogen economies and energy sector growth, contributing to the expansion of ion exchange materials applications. Companies Mentioned 3M Astom Corp. Axplora Agc Inc. Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc. Chemours (The Chemours Co.) Dupont De Nemours Inc. Dioxide Materials Evoqua Water Technologies LLC Eichrom Technologies Ecosoft Bwt Ecolectro Inc. Fujifilm Holdings Corp. Ion Exchange ( India ) Ltd. ) Ltd. Ionomr Innovations Inc. Jacobi Carbons Ab Lanxess AG Mitsubishi Chemical Group Corp. Membranes International Purolite Resintech Inc. Samyang Corp. Sunresin New Materials Co. Ltd. Saltworks Technologies Inc. Suqing Group Snowpure LLC Solvay Sa Taiyuan Lanlang Technology Industrial Corp. Thermax Ltd. Key Highlights: The global ion exchange materials market is expected to reach $4.8 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 9% from 2023 to 2028. by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 9% from 2023 to 2028. Energy generation applications, particularly fuel cell systems and hydrogen production, are driving market growth. Ion exchange materials are crucial for efficient and safe nuclear power operation, removing impurities and radioactive contaminants from cooling water. Water treatment applications are on the rise, addressing water scarcity, pollution, and quality issues in various regions. The Asia-Pacific region, including China , Japan , South Korea , and India , is a key growth area for ion exchange materials due to government initiatives and energy sector expansion. Report Features: Detailed market analysis with historical revenue data for 2022 and forecasts for 2023-2028. Comprehensive market share analysis based on form factor, application, and region. Examination of growth drivers, challenges, technology updates, and macroeconomic factors shaping the ion exchange materials market. Insights into emerging technologies, ESG trends, and sustainable practices in the industry. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 280 Forecast Period 2023 - 2028 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $3.1 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2028 $4.8 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 9.0 % Regions Covered Global Key Topics Covered: Chapter 1 Introduction Chapter 2 Summary and Highlights Chapter 3 Market Overview Chapter 4 Market Dynamics Market Dynamics Market Drivers Market Challenges and Restraints Recent Innovations Supply Chain Raw Material Producers Chemical Production Specialists Ion Exchange Material Producers Commodity Supply Chain Semiconductor Manufacturers Electronics Equipment Manufacturers Original Equipment Manufacturers Ion Exchange Equipment Manufacturers Distributors Engineering, Procurement and Construction Contractors Construction/Installation Contractors End-users Waste Management and Disposal Impact of the Russia-Ukraine War on the Market for Ion Exchange Materials Chapter 5 Market by Form Factor Chapter 6 Market by Application Chapter 7 Market by Region Chapter 8 Esg Developments Chapter 9 Emerging Technologies and Developments Chapter 10 Patent Analysis Chapter 11 M&A and Venture Funding Outlook Chapter 12 Competitive Intelligence Chapter 13 Company Profiles Chapter 14 Appendix: Acronyms For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/bowl98 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: Laura Wood Senior Manager [email protected] Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg SOURCE Research and Markets TIANJIN, China, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Second Vocational Skills Competition of the People's Republic of China opened in Tianjin on September 16. The theme of this year's competition is "Skills making talents, Repatriation with skills". A total of 4045 participants from 36 delegations across the country took part in the competition for 109 project medals. Competitors such as 58-year-old "experienced masters", 16-year-old "beginning craftsman", students and corporate employees competed on the same stage. On-site of the opening ceremony On-site of the competition Li Qiang, Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China, recently gave important instructions on the work of skilled talents. He instructed that the skilled talent is a valuable resource for employment-first and innovation-driven development strategies. The Vocational Skills Competition of the People's Republic of China is held to build a platform for the majority of skilled talents to show their and exchange skills, which is conducive to promote the formation of a new era of employment with skills, becoming talents with skill, and repatriation with skills. The State Councillor Shen Yiqin attended the opening ceremony to announce the opening and researched on the related working progress of skilled talents. After the opening ceremony, Shen Yiqin visited the skill display exchange area of the competition as well as the manufacturing and transportation competitions; then she came to the Tianjin University of Technology and Education affiliated Advanced Technical School and the Worldskills Competition China (Tianjin) Research Center to research on and understand the cultivation of technical talents in technical colleges as well as the research and promotion of the World Skills Competition, etc. Wang Xiaoping, Minister of Human Resources and Social Security, introduced at the opening ceremony that the Second Vocational Skills Competition of the People's Republic of China is a comprehensive national vocational skills competition with the highest specifications, the most projects, the largest scale, the highest level and the most extensive influence in China. The purpose of the competition is to promote training, education, and construction with the competition, and constantly improve the training, utilization, evaluation, and incentive mechanisms for skilled talents. Compared with the previous competition, the scale and expansion of this competition are closely related to the development situation. Competitors have gone through various of selection in corporate or academic skill competitions, industry skill competitions, and provincial skill competitions, and stand out from hundreds of thousands of competitors, representing the highest level of skill competition in China in related projects. The event setup of this competition is completely new. Compared with the first competition, this one has added 20 new contests on professional and digital technology skills, such as all media operations, internet marketing, etc. These competitions are of great significance to enhance not only the social identity of new career practitioners, but also to promote employment and entrepreneurship. At the same time, five new professional technology contests such as intelligent manufacturing engineering technology and artificial intelligence engineering technology have been added, which are more in line with the trend of technological skills integration and development. According to reports, the competition will last for four days, and the closing ceremony will be held on September 19. Not only the winners will be rewarded by then, Tianjin City will also hand over the flag to Henan Province, where the third competition will be held. Contact: Liu Hejiang Tel: 0086-22-83218408 Email: jnds_2023@163.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2213517/Vocational_Skills_Competition_1.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2213518/Vocational_Skills_Competition_2.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2213520/The_2nd_Vocational_Skills_Competition_Logo.jpg SOURCE The 2nd Vocational Skills Competition These exceptional individuals bring diverse expertise and experiences that will greatly enhance the organization's impact on the lives of Black and Brown youth NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Brotherhood Sister Sol (BroSis), the Harlem-based youth development and social justice organization, is pleased to announce the election of five exceptional individuals to its Board of Directors: Danielle Brown, SVP, Data Enablement and Category Strategy, Disney Advertising; Latraviette D. Smith-Wilson, EVP & Chief Marketing & Equity Officer, Horizon Media; Sharon Foo, Managing Director, Creative Futures, EssenceMediacom; Fuquan Collins, Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer, Turner Construction; and Elizabeth Acevedo, The New York Times Best Selling Author. "We are thrilled to welcome our new board members to the BroSis family," said Khary Lazarre-White, Executive Director and Co-Founder of The Brotherhood Sister Sol. "Their diverse backgrounds and shared commitment to our mission will help us to further our work to educate, train, and organize for change." Now officially serving on BroSis' Board of Directors, these cultural and business leaders and changemakers bring a wealth of knowledge that will contribute to the organization's ongoing success and to BroSis' mission of guiding and inspiring the next generation of young leaders. "We welcome all of these amazing leaders to our Board with open arms," said Rahsan-Rahsan Lindsay, Co-Chair of BroSis' Board of Directors and CEO of MediaCo. "We collectively believe in the transformative power of education, mentorship, and community support, and they will help us continue to represent the organization's unwavering dedication to empowering young people from underserved communities." For over 25 years, BroSis has been at the forefront of social justice, educating, training, and organizing to challenge inequality and champion opportunity for all. The organization's board members have played a pivotal role in the work of BroSis helping youth to navigate challenges, celebrate their identities, and unlock their full potential. The new members of the Board of Directors are as follows, including two distinguished alumni of the program: Danielle Brown , SVP, Data Enablement and Category Strategy, Disney Advertising Latraviette D. Smith-Wilson, EVP & Chief Marketing & Equity Officer, Horizon Media Sharon Foo , Managing Director, Creative Futures, Essence MediaCom Fuquan Collins , Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer, Turner Construction Elizabeth Acevedo, NY Times Best Selling Author; winner of National Book Award and Carnegie Medal "Diving into this role and helping support BroSis' commitment to empowering youth is a privilege," said Danielle Brown, SVP, Data Enablement and Category Strategy, Disney Advertising. "I believe in the power of using community to create effective change, and I'm eager to contribute my expertise to enhance the organization's impact. Together, we can make a meaningful difference." "I am truly honored to join the board of such an esteemed organization whose dedication to bring equity and opportunity to all aligns perfectly with my values and my work," said Latraviette D. Smith-Wilson, EVP & Chief Marketing & Equity Officer, Horizon Media. "I look forward to leveraging my marketing, entrepreneurial, and community-building expertise to help empower young people to build the futures they want to see and foster change that will positively impact generations to come." "I'm excited to join BroSis' Board of Directors and contribute my passion for creativity and media," said Sharon Foo, Managing Director, Creative Futures, EssenceMediaCom. "Creative storytelling is a powerful tool for change, and I'm eager to support the organization in elevating its creative initiatives and amplifying the voices of Black and Brown youth." "Returning to an organization that has impacted me so greatly, this time as a Board member, feels like a full-circle moment," said Fuquan Collins, Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer, Turner Construction. "My personal journey from program participant to Chief Diversity Officer at Turner Construction has provided me with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by marginalized youth. I'm dedicated to ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to thrive, and I look forward to contributing to the organization's inclusivity efforts." "As a BroSis alumna, I am deeply honored to return as a Board member," said Elizabeth Acevedo, NY Times Best Selling Author. "My journey through BroSis not only transformed my life but also ignited a fire within me to pursue the arts and uplift others. It's a privilege to be part of an organization that recognizes the immense potential within every young individual, regardless of their circumstances. I'm particularly excited about our focus on driving positive social change, as I firmly believe that storytelling and art have the power to shape minds, break barriers, and create a more inclusive world." These remarkable individuals will join the esteemed roster of BroSis' Board of Directors, a collective dedicated to driving positive change in the lives of youth and their communities with unwavering enthusiasm and commitment. BroSis is excited by the infusion of new energy and perspectives that the Board members will contribute as they embark on this new journey with the organization. In addition to the newly appointed members, BroSis' Board also includes the following existing members: Rahsan-Rahsan Lindsay, CEO, MediaCo; Clara Markowicz, Producer; Dr. Farah Griffin, William B. Ransford Professor of English, Comparative Literature & African American Studies, Columbia University; Ross Haime, Agent - Innovative Artists; Stephen C. Graham, Investment Banker; Dr. B. Alan Echtenkamp, Founder, Organizational Psychologist, Slingshot Leadership; Paul E. Butler, President & Chief Transformation Officer, New America; Andrew M. Chonoles, Managing Partner, Kleinberg, Kaplan, Wolff & Cohen, P.C.; Heather Corbett, Founder, V & C Custom, Inc.; Marcy Grau, Residential Real Estate Broker, COMPASS; Damon Hewitt, ESQ., President & Executive Director, Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law; Jane Lazarre, Writer; Professor of Writing & Literature; Marcus Littles, Founder & Senior Partner, Frontline Solutions; Ravi J. Mallik, Managing Partner, Sand Dollar Capital; Marti Meyerson, Investment Partner, 2M Companies, Inc.; Dr. Alondra Nelson, Harold F. Linder Professor, School of Social Science, Institute for Advanced Study, Princeton University, Dr. Pedro A. Noguera, Dean, Rossier School of Education, University of Southern California; Michelle Ores, ESQ. Attorney; Lida Orzeck, Co-Founder & Co-CEO, Hanky Panky; Detavio Samuels, CEO, REVOLT; Lisa Schultz, Director of Secondary School Placement, New Canaan Country School; Andrietta Sims, Parent Member, Teacher, Central Park East II; Miguel Vias, VP of Growth, Forte.io; Tiffany R. Warren, EVP, Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer, Sony Music Group; and Douglas H. White, ESQ.; Former Commissioner for Human Rights, New York State & former Commissioner of Personnel, City of New York. For more information, please visit brotherhood-sistersol.org and follow The Brotherhood Sister Sol on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter. About The Brotherhood Sister Sol For over 25 years, the Brotherhood Sister Sol (BroSis) has been at the forefront of social justice, educating, training, and organizing to challenge inequality and champion opportunity for all. With a focus on Black and Latinx youth, BroSis is where young people own the power of their history, identity, and community to create the future they want to see. By training educators across the nation and around the world and organizing a community of change agents, BroSis builds on its legacy of youth-led activism to realize a more just and equitable future. SOURCE The Brotherhood Sister Sol The Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan and Ford Motor Company Fund committing lead gifts totaling $1.5 million DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- For nearly 100 years, The Henry Ford has been a champion of innovation, ingenuity and resourcefulness, using its expertise and unparalleled collections to inspire all to create a better future. Bridging history with innovation, the institution is expanding its education initiatives that focus on the importance of food, agriculture and the environment with the announcement of a Farm to School Lunch Across America program and an endowment for Henry Ford Academy's locally-sourced farm to school lunches. The announcement was made by The Henry Ford's President and CEO, Patricia Mooradian, at the institution's Carver-Carson Society's Moveable Feast held this year in Greenfield Village on September 17 and featured actor and activist Jane Fonda, chef and farm-to-table pioneer Alice Waters and historian Douglas Brinkley. The Henry Ford Announces Farm to School Lunch Initiatives Post this "The Henry Ford is activating its mission and collaborating with a wide-variety of thought leaders and influencers to address the issues of climate change, nutrition and accessibility," said Mooradian. "We are using our collections and historic expertise to help advocate for free, accessible, locally-sourced and cooked from scratch school lunches for every student in America, starting with our own students at Henry Ford Academy. Our farm to school lunch program will now be endowed in perpetuity and perhaps be a model for institutions across the country." The Henry Ford announced a fundraising goal of $7 million to endow the school lunch program for its Henry Ford Academy, the public charter high school that educates 500 9th--12th grade students on its campus. The Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan is committing a gift of $1 million to this endeavor while Ford Motor Company Fund is donating $500,000 to help launch the Farm to School Lunch Across America initiative, a national program during October Farm to School Month in 2024, serving schoolchildren, teachers, and families a nutritious and delicious meal sourced locally and regeneratively. Conceptually, this advocacy effort will focus on the importance of healthy and in-season lunch programs for K-12 students and involve schools across the nation through programming and assemblies. "The Community Foundation congratulates The Henry Ford for leading the farm-to-school lunch program," said Ric DeVore, president, Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan. "We have long supported food access programs in southeast Michigan, and we believe The Henry Ford initiative has the potential to not only improve health outcomes for participants and their families, but to teach others about the power of sustainable food systems." Henry Ford Academy partners with a dozen local farms and organizations to serve its students in-season regional food every day. "More than 34 million Americans including 9 million children face food insecurity," said Mary Culler, president of Ford Fund. "That's why we're so proud to build on our longstanding partnership with The Henry Ford to transform access to fresh, healthy food for school children across the country." About The Henry Ford Located in Dearborn, Michigan, The Henry Ford, a globally recognized destination, fosters inspiration and learning from hands-on encounters with artifacts that represent the most comprehensive collection anywhere focusing on innovation, ingenuity and resourcefulness in America. Its unique venues include Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, Greenfield Village, Ford Rouge Factory Tour, Benson Ford Research Center and Henry Ford Academy, a public charter high school. Together with its online presence at thf.org, its national television series The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation and Invention Convention Worldwide, the growing affiliation of organizations fostering innovation, invention and entrepreneurship in K-12 students, The Henry Ford inspires individuals to unlock their potential and help shape a better future. SOURCE The Henry Ford Kaiser Permanente's health plans are again rated among the nation's best for overall treatment, prevention, and patient experience by the National Committee for Quality Assurance. OAKLAND, Calif., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Across the nation, no one outperforms Kaiser Permanente when it comes to providing expert, coordinated care and outstanding service. In the 2023 National Committee for Quality Assurance's annual report, released in September, Kaiser Permanente's private (commercial) and Medicare plans were rated highest among competitors' plans or tied for highest in every geographic region served . More 5-star and 4.5-star plans than any organization For 2023, NCQA analyzed nearly 1,100 commercial, Medicare, and Medicaid plans, introducing new measures on health equity along with stratifications of race and ethnicity. Kaiser Permanente fully supports the NCQA changes that align with its dedication to advancing health equity. Only 2 plans received 5 out of 5 stars, one of which was Kaiser Permanente's commercial plan available in the mid-Atlantic states (Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.). All of Kaiser Permanente's Medicare plans received 4.5 stars. And 2 of Kaiser Permanente's other commercial plans, in Northern California and Southern California, received 4.5 stars. This is a remarkable accomplishment given that only 7% of the nation's plans rated 4.5 stars or higher. In addition, Kaiser Permanente has more 5-star and 4.5-star plans combined than any other health care organization for the eighth ratings cycle in a row. "We at Kaiser Permanente are proud to once again be recognized as a national leader by the NCQA," said Andrew Bindman, MD, executive vice president and chief medical officer for Kaiser Permanente. "Our integrated model prioritizes the health of our members and our outstanding people have demonstrated a remarkable ability to rapidly learn and adapt to meet the challenges facing all of health care." High-quality care Kaiser Permanente members deserve NCQA is a private, nonprofit organization that works to improve health care quality. NCQA ratings are based on a number of measures that assess how each plan performs when it comes to prevention and equity, treatment, and patient experience. "The NCQA ratings reflect the dedication of our highly skilled doctors, nurses, and other clinicians in providing innovative, equitable care," said Nancy Gin , MD, executive vice president for quality at Kaiser Permanente and chief quality officer for The Permanente Federation, the national umbrella organization for the more than 23,000 physicians who provide care to Kaiser Permanente's members. "Our care teams are committed to continuous improvement as we evolve our unique integrated systems to achieve high-quality care." Learn more about NCQA's ratings and methodology and the other awards and recognition Kaiser Permanente repeatedly earns for being a great place to get care. About Kaiser Permanente Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America's leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.7 million members in 8 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, go to about.kp.org. For more information, contact: Vincent Staupe, [email protected] SOURCE Kaiser Permanente Innovest, a premier investment and development firm focused on creating unique lifestyle communities throughout Saudi Arabia, has signed several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) at Cityscape Global in Riyadh last week. The signings are in collaboration with key industry partners including notable financial institutions, construction companies, global project developers and real estate investment firms. The agreements align with the Saudi Vision 2030 principle of boosting the local real estate sector and serve to reaffirm Innovests commitment to homebuyers. Through the partnerships, homebuyers throughout the kingdom will also have the opportunity to benefit through the Sakani Programmes ministry or housing initiatives. Sakani Programme Founded in 2017 by the Saudi Ministry of Housing the Real Estate Development Fund, the Sakani Programme aims to increase the homeowning population to 70 per cent by 2030 by creating new residential units for ownership. Mohammed Alkhars, Chairman at Innovest, said: The establishment of the MoUs with the banks, construction firms, and real estate companies is a significant step forward in Innovests mission to equip, empower, and encourage homebuyers throughout the kingdom. The signings lay the framework for an industry-wide support system designed to guide customers in their homebuying journey and will continue to shape the way in which the real estate sector approaches homebuying in line with the larger Saudi Vision 2030. The signings at Cityscape Global follow Innovests recent launch of Jadan Communities, located in the Al Fursan neighborhood. Jadan Communities Jadan Communities offers an affordable, high-quality, residential community that features stand-alone villas starting at 250 square metres, with modern designs that have been developed using the very best practices in the industry. The three-bedroom villas will offer open-plan and contemporary living spaces, with the master bedroom featuring an ensuite bathroom option. The villas also have great features, in line with the vision of creating residential units with a smart system that helps save energy and comprehensive warranties, to offer peace of mind. Situated among open green spaces and walkable areas, citizens will be able to enjoy a fully serviced community featuring high-end facilities and amenities.-- TradeArabia News Service BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Iran has revoked the licenses of several inspectors from International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in response to political pressure from Western countries on the IAEA, Spokesman for Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Nasser Kanaani said, Trend reports. According to Kanaani, Iran had previously cautioned against political pressures on the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) due to concerns about the agencys misuse by other nations. On September 16, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi announced that Iran has revoked the licenses of one-third of IAEAs core inspection team assigned to Iran. Iran has expressed its expectation that Western countries should abstain from misusing international organizations like the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and should instead foster an environment conducive to the professional and unbiased functioning of such organizations, he said. The spokesman also pointed out that Iran will maintain its constructive engagement with the agency in line with the terms of the agreements, emphasizing the need for IAEAs objectivity. Iran states that it cooperates with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in only two frameworks: the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and the safeguards rules. In late 2020, the Iranian parliament decided to implement a strategic plan to tackle the sanctions, citing the non-implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) signed between Iran and six countries and the imposition of sanctions on Iran. According to the decision of the Iranian parliament, as of February 23, Iran suspended the implementation of additional steps and an additional protocol provided for in the nuclear deal. As a result, the control mechanism of the IAEA decreased by 2030 percent. 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. In discussions on nuclear program, Iran is mainly trying to achieve the abolition of sanctions imposed by the US and Western countries, the removal of its funds frozen abroad, and the abolition of the restriction on the export of crude oil. In return, the US and Western countries want Iran not to acquire an atomic bomb, to keep its nuclear program under control, and to reduce the level of uranium enrichment. --- Follow the author on X (Twitter):@BaghishovElnur The pioneering house of Japanese whisky reveals two new limited-edition bottlings within its six-part celebratory centennial range. NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As 2023 marks a momentous year for the House of Suntory, the founding House of Japanese whisky is thrilled to reveal the long-awaited centennial release of Hibiki 21-Year-Old and a limited-edition bottle design of Hibiki Japanese Harmony that honors the four seasons and is a nod to the past, present, and future. The two limited releases mark the latest centennial whisky offerings from the House of Suntory's anniversary celebration, honoring a century since founder Shinjiro Torii established Japan's very first malt whisky distillery in 1923. 100th Anniversary Hibiki Japanese Harmony and Hibiki 21-Year-Old Limited-Edition Releases Originally making its debut in 1989, Hibiki is considered among the most prestigious whiskies in the world and has become one of the most sought-after Japanese blended whiskies. Hibiki is a harmonious blend of various malt and grain whiskies from Suntory's Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita distilleries. The limited-edition Hibiki 21-Year-Old is a delicate marriage of malt and grain whiskies that are meticulously blended to create an orchestra of flavors and aromas. For this special centennial edition, rare Mizunara oak is placed at the forefront, profoundly influencing the blend while still maintaining Hibiki's character and essence. "For the limited-edition Hibiki 21-Year-Old, our team took on the challenge of crafting a new blend to celebrate our centennial," says Chief Blender of Suntory Shinji Fukuyo. "With meticulous precision, we managed to harness the challenging-yet-rewarding characteristics of Japanese Mizunara oak to accentuate the unique flavor profile for which our Hibiki whiskies are known. This special whisky showcases our continued dedication to craftsmanship at the House of Suntory." The centennial anniversary label design on the Hibiki 21-Year-Old bottle artfully displays a gradual transition of colors that evoke the sunrise in Japan, a symbol of life, vitality and the ever-flowing passage of time. In Japanese culture, the sun holds deep meaning, as it nurtures the surrounding nature and provides essential energy. It stands as a reminder to appreciate life and embrace the changes that come with each passing moment. Tender gold in color, this extraordinary whisky embodies the spirit of "Wa," or oneness, with enticing aromas. It offers refined and elegant notes of kumquat and jasmine with Japanese incense. The palate is subtly sweet and floral combined with spiced sandalwood and agarwood. The result is a long and deep finish with undertones of spiced Mizunara wood. Hibiki 21-Year-Old is bottled at 43 percent ABV. It is available globally in select markets. The House of Suntory's centennial Hibiki Japanese Harmony bottle design brings the art of "Monozukuri" craftsmanship to lifeit's this same relentless pursuit for quality, ingenuity, and expressiveness that has inspired the design of each of the house's centennial limited editions. The Hibiki Japanese Harmony centennial edition packaging features motifs of snow, moon and flowers representing Japan's changing seasons. The 'Kakehashi' (bridge) depicted on the bottle links Japan and the world to the past, present and future. The water flowing underneath is pure and clear, symbolizing the cleansing of hardships and calamity. The 'Kakehashi' symbolizes the emotional connection of the Japanese people to their country's unique seasonality and its significance in everyday life, fostering an appreciation for time that deeply resonates and inspires Hibiki. Amber in color, this luminous and delicate whisky presents notes of rose, lychee, a hint of rosemary, mature woodiness and sandalwood on the nose. On the palate, it offers aromas of honey-like sweetness, candied orange peel and white chocolate. The finish is both subtle and tender with a hint of Mizunara. Hibiki Japanese Harmony is bottled at 43 percent ABV. It is available globally in select markets. Earlier this year, the House unveiled its centennial edition Yamazaki 18-Year-Old Mizunara and Hakushu 18-Year-Old Peated Malt whiskies. Limited 100th anniversary labels of the flagship Yamazaki 12-Year-Old and Hakushu 12-Year-Old were also released for the centennial. All four are available in select markets around the world. The House of Suntory invites fans to join its new global membership program, offering exclusive benefits such as early access to new releases, priority invitations to consumer experiences*, distillery news, cultural insights and more. To sign up and learn more about the House of Suntory, please visit us online here . For more information on the new limited-edition whiskies, please visit us online here for Hibiki 21-Year-Old and here for Hibiki Japanese Harmony. *Limited number of invitations in key cities. About The House of Suntory Since 1923, Suntory has been renowned as a pioneer of Japanese Whisky for its House of Master Blenders and for their Art of Blending. Founder Shinjiro Torii built Japan's first malt whisky distillery in Yamazaki, and the Suntory legacy continued with Torii's son and Suntory's second Master Blender, Keizo Saji, who continued to establish distilleries including the Hakushu Distillery. As the generations of Suntory's master blenders carry on, Suntory Whisky remains committed to heritage and innovation. The House of Suntory has been named four-time Distiller of the Year at the International Spirits Challenge in London, UK (2010, 2012, 2013, 2014). Suntory Whiskies are subtle, refined and complex. The portfolio includes Yamazaki, Hakushu, Chita, Kakubin, Hibiki, Suntory Whisky Toki and Ao. The House of Suntory portfolio also offers Roku Japanese Gin and Haku Japanese Vodka. Created from Japanese ingredients by the master artisans at the House of Suntory, Roku Gin and Haku Vodka represent the nature and spirit of Japan. This year, Suntory Whisky celebrates one hundred years of whisky innovationa major milestone not only for the brand's history, but for Japanese spirits culture as a whole. To mark this anniversary, the House of Suntory will be rolling out its centennial campaign throughout 2023. About Beam Suntory As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires the brilliance of life by delivering great consumer experiences through its world-class portfolio of brands. Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam, Maker's Mark, Basil Hayden and Knob Creek bourbons; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hibiki and Toki; and leading Scotch brands including Teacher's, Laphroaig and Bowmore, Beam Suntory also produces leading brands such as Courvoisier cognac, Tres Generaciones, El Tesoro and Hornitos tequila, Roku and Sipsmith gin, Canadian Club whisky, and is a world leader in ready-to-drink cocktails, with brands like -196 and On The Rocks Premium Cocktails. A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in more than 30 countries, one of Beam Suntory's core values is Growing for Good and through its Proof Positive sustainability strategy, the company has committed to ambitious goals and investments to promote environmental sustainability in its operations, ensure the company has a positive impact on the communities where employees live and work, and programs to inform consumers as they make choices about drinking. Headquartered in New York City, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com. Enjoy Responsibly. Suntory Whisky Single Malt & Blended Japanese Whisky, 43-48% Alc./Vol. 2023 Beam Suntory Import Co., Chicago, IL SOURCE Beam Suntory UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS, Ohio, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Joseph A. Custer is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Professional for his contributions to the fields of Education and Law. Custer Joseph Mr. Custer pursued higher education at the University of Iowa and Northern Iowa where earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with high honors in 1983. He then attended the University of Arkansas at Little Rock where he received a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree in 1989. Mr. Custer continued his scholarship at the University of Missouri in 1990 obtaining a Master of Library and Information Science in 1991 and capped his studies with a Master of Business Administration from the University of Kansas in 2012. He was admitted to practice before The Missouri Bar in 1990 and the United States Supreme Court in 2016. Mr. Custer transitioned to academia after working in the law field for four and a half years in private practice becoming the collection development/head reference librarian and lecturer in 1995 at the Kansas University School of Law. He transitioned after three years to the position of associate director; collection development librarian; lecturer; and associate director. Adding to his exceptional career, he became head of technology services and lecturer in 2008. In 2010, Mr. Custer served as assistant professor of law and director of the Vincent C. Immel Law Library at the Saint Louis University School of Law. He joined the faculty of Case Western Reserve University in 2015 as associate professor of law and director of the Ben C. Green Law Library. He received a promotion to full professor of law in 2023; teaches three law classes; and is currently a member of the Faculty Senate at Case Western Reserve University. An expert in advanced legal research; electronic discovery; and law practice technology, Mr. Custer is dedicated to keeping abreast of the most recent technology and methods by maintaining affiliation with the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis; the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association; the American Bar Association; the American Association of Law Libraries; the American Association of Law Schools; the Mid-America Association of Law Libraries; the Ohio Regional Association of Law Libraries; the Missouri Bar; and the United States Supreme Court Bar. In addition to his professional responsibilities, Mr. Custer is an author with many published works, such as a textbook he co-authored called "Kansas Legal Research" with Carolina Academic Press in 2009. He was a contributing editor to "The Jury Expert'' with the American Society of Trial Consultants from 2005 to 2008; authored and edited the third edition of "Kansas Legal Research and Reference Guide" with Michie Publishing in 2003; and also the second edition in 1997 with the Kansas Bar Association. The attorney and educator has also contributed articles to professional journals; law reviews and journals; and chapters to books, and currently contributes regularly to the "Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Journal". Mr. Custer has been recognized with many accolades during his prestigious career in both education and law receiving such awards as the Paper of the Year award from LexisNexis and the American Association of Law Libraries in 2009. He notes that he was part of a group of authors who received an Andrews Award from the American Association of Law Libraries in 2007; received an Individual Article Award from The University of Kansas School of Law in 2007; and a Continuing Legal Education Award from The University of Kansas School of Law in 2001, 2002, and 2003. Teaching several law school classes, both nationally and internationally, Mr. Custer is particularly proud to have taught International Legal Research at the University of Bahcesehir, Istanbul, Turkey, and Topics in Law: Introduction to Law and the Legal System at Trinity Hall, Cambridge, England. He has presented papers at Balliol College at the University of Oxford and the University of Hong Kong. In his spare time, Mr. Custer enjoys music; hiking; biking; and traveling. He also loves staying in contact with his two grown children, Kaitlyn and Benjamin. Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, [email protected] SOURCE The Inner Circle SAN DIEGO, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Cireson, the experts in Microsoft Service Management and a Gold Certified Microsoft partner, will exhibit this month at Experts Live Europe. Experts Live Europe is a community-driven IT conference with a focus on Microsoft cloud, datacenter, security and modern workplace solutions. As a leader in the Microsoft Service Management space, Cireson will be showcasing their cloud-based IT Service Management platform built for Microsoft Teams. Tikit is a Microsoft 365 ITSM Platform that matures with your Microsoft 365 technology adoption. While the Cireson team has exhibited at numerous Experts Live events in the past, this will be the team's first return in five years and the first time Tikit will be showcased. "At Experts Live Europe we are beyond excited to welcome back one of our most loyal sponsors of the conference, the team at Cireson. This year, it's even more exciting for our attendees to learn about process automations and improving the employee experience through live demos of Tikit, Cireson's cloud-based Microsoft Teams Ticketing Solution. IT Professionals from around the world gather together at Experts Live on September 18-20, 2023, in Prague to learn more about groundbreaking solutions, like Tikit," said Isidora Katanic-Maurer, Head Organizer at Experts Live. This event comes shortly after the unveiling of Tikit's newest plan offering, the Microsoft 365 ITSM plan which elevates Tikit to serve larger, more process-mature organizations. Learn more about the newest of three available plans here. "It's exciting to be returning to such a profound event for those in the Microsoft ecosystem. We are honored to be a silver sponsor at the event and look forward to highlighting all that Tikit has to offer to the M365 community," said Shaun Ericson, co-founder of Cireson. While the Cireson team has previously attended Experts Live EU, this marks the first international event for Tikit which coincides with the team's ongoing commitment to its security posture. Most recently, Cireson has achieved SOC 2 Type 2 compliance for Tikit. Marcus Bauer, Director of Infosec and GRC at Cireson shared, "In an effort to provide our customers with all the assurances they need, we're actively working on improving and extending our security posture. We look at our SOC 2 Type 2 attestation as a robust foundation paving the way for us to conquer additional compliance frameworks like HIPAA, GDPR and the ISO27000 series." Those who will be in attendance at Experts Live Europe can connect with the Tikit by Cireson team at their booth, located near the Community Stage and Lounge. Individuals unable to attend but still interested in connecting with the Tikit by Cireson team can enquire via email at [email protected]. Also, don't miss recent news regarding the company and product updates in the Tikit resource center. About Cireson Cireson is a Microsoft Gold Certified partner focused on creating software solutions that natively integrate with Microsoft technology. With Cireson, you can choose to centralize your business processes on-premise with their Microsoft System Center Service Manager (SCSM) products, or in the cloud with their SaaS Microsoft 365 ITSM platform, Tikit. As Microsoft Service Management experts, Cireson technology is designed to maximize the value of your existing Microsoft investments. For more information, visit Cireson.com. For more information: Visit Cireson's website Visit Tikit's website Read the Tikit Blog Follow Tikit on Twitter @TeamTikit Follow Tikit on LinkedIn SOURCE Cireson Delta Dental's first Senior Oral Health and Menopause Survey revealed that 70% of women 50 and older experience oral health symptoms they don't realize relate to menopause, making dentists a prime, untapped resource for women navigating it. SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- An astounding 84% of women aged 50 and over are unaware that some of the oral health symptoms and discomfort they experience could be related to menopause, according to Delta Dental's 2023 Senior Oral Health and Menopause Report: Breaking the Stigma. Delta Dental's Senior Oral Health and Menopause Report 2023: Let's talk about menopause and oral health The survey also revealed that most women who are experiencing menopause are unaware of how dental providers can help them address symptoms related to menopause and recommend treatments. Though 70% of women 50 and older indicated they have experienced at least one oral health symptom since beginning menopausal symptoms, only 2% have discussed their concerns with their dentist and only 1% with their dental hygienist. "With menopause a long-stigmatized topic and symptoms going largely unaddressed or even ignored, these findings are stark but unsurprising," says Sarah Chavarria, President at Delta Dental. "Despite the knowledge gaps revealed in this survey, sentiments about menopause are beginning to shift, and women are eager to break the stigma. At Delta Dental, we are committed to empowering more whole-person care that incorporates oral health into overall physician care and wellbeing, including in menopause. Being more open will help make treatment plans more accessible for all people who experience menopause." The Missed Connections Between Menopause and Oral Health Of the over 1,000 women surveyed, 70% who have begun experiencing menopausal symptoms say they have noticed at least one of the following oral health symptoms: dry mouth (39%), receding gumlines (30%), tooth sensitivity or pain (28%), tooth decay (20%), bleeding gums (16%), altered taste (13%), reduced saliva production (13%) or burning tongue (5%). Despite experiencing these common symptoms, most women didn't associate them with hormone shifts. While 39% said they experienced dry mouth, 77% were not aware dry mouth can be related to menopause. Lack of awareness was even higher among other symptoms: Reduced saliva production (90% unaware of association with menopause) Increased tooth decay (88%) Increased risk of gum disease (87%) Jawbone density (87%) Tooth loss (85%) Receding gum lines (83%) The survey also revealed that despite these gaps, nearly half of women 50 and older indicated they are extremely or moderately curious to learn more about how menopause and hormonal changes affect oral health as they age. In a promising sign, after learning about the connection between menopause and oral health care, respondents indicated they were moved to make changes in their life to help improve their oral health: 77% of women 50 and older say they will prioritize scheduling their next dental exam/cleaning. More than 2 in 5 women 50 and older (43%) say they will spend much more time on their oral health care routine. Patient Education Opportunities for Dentists and Dental Staff The survey findings made evident that dentists and dental hygienists are a prime, untapped resource for women navigating menopause. When it comes to where women aged 50 and older go to learn more about menopause and their symptoms: More than 4 in 5 (84%) say there should be more resources that provide information about the link between menopause and overall health. Nearly 2 in 5 (39%) say healthcare providers can do more to encourage women to ask questions about menopause. Only 1 in 4 (26%) look to their primary care provider for information on menopause-related oral health concerns the same percentage that look to Google. "What's most compelling to me is how few menopausal women said they had asked any physician about oral health symptoms," says Dr. Jessica Buehler, Senior Director of Dental Affairs at Delta Dental. "That's a care gap with extensive repercussions saliva is the natural buffer of your mouth, and less saliva means less protection against dry mouth, which is at the crux of all other oral health symptoms related to menopause, like burning tongue, increased tooth decay and altered taste." Dr. Buehler encourages pre-, peri-, post- or menopausal women to "share the oral health changes that you are experiencing with your dentist or dental hygienist." Having open conversations with your dentist about your overall health and potential menopause onset will help your provider make the right treatment recommendations. "If you feel uncomfortable talking to your dentist about menopause," says Dr. Buehler, "focus on simply sharing the oral health symptoms that you're experiencing." For dentists, Dr. Daniel Croley, Chief Dental Officer at Delta Dental, recommends checking in with patients who are approaching or in menopause. "As medical professionals, we have a responsibility to ensure our patients are receiving the holistic health care and support they deserve not only oral health, but whole person health as well," he says. "We can help ease the burden and break the stigma by creating space for these conversations." Delta Dental is committed to providing older adults with consistent, quality access to oral health care, improving education and driving lasting policy changes to address systemic issues. To learn more about the survey, view Delta Dental's full report. About Delta Dental: Since 1955, Delta Dental has offered comprehensive, high-quality oral health care coverage to millions of enrollees and built the strongest network of dental providers in the country. The Delta Dental of California enterprise includes its affiliates Delta Dental Insurance Company, Delta Dental of Pennsylvania, Delta Dental of New York, Inc., as well as the national DeltaCare USA network, and provides dental benefits to more than 45 million people across 15 states and the District of Columbia.* All are members of the Delta Dental Plans Association based in Oak Brook, Illinois, the not-for-profit national association that through a national network of Delta Dental companies collectively covers millions of people nationwide. For more information about Delta Dental of California and Affiliates, please visit www.deltadentalins.com. *Delta Dental of California's operating areas encompass Alabama, California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, West Virginia and the District of Columbia. Delta Dental 2023 Oral Health and Menopause Survey Methodology: Delta Dental commissioned Atomik Research, an independent market research agency, to survey American women aged 50 and older about their awareness of the impact menopause has on their oral health, and related actions. The national sample size of 1,061 American women 50 years of age or older was representative of the race/ethnicity composition of the senior population across the United States. The margin of error is +/- 3 percentage points with a confidence level of 95 percent. Fieldwork took place between July 24 and July 31, 2023. Analysis was supported by Atomik Research and The Bliss Group. For Media Inquiries, Contact: Kinga Skowronek Public Relations Manager 415-975-8272 [email protected] SOURCE Delta Dental of California Latest edition places an emphasis on outcomes measures for graduating college students. WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in education rankings, today announced the 2024 Best Colleges . Serving as a guide for prospective students and their families, the rankings evaluate 1,500 colleges and universities using up to 19 measures of academic quality. This year's rankings placed a greater emphasis on social mobility and outcomes for graduating college students, demonstrating the most significant methodological change in the rankings' history. More than 50% of an institution's rank now comprises varying outcome measures related to success in enrolling and graduating students from all backgrounds with manageable debt and post-graduate success. In addition, five factors were removed: class size, faculty with terminal degrees, alumni giving, high school class standing and the proportion of graduates who borrow federal loans. "For 40 years, students and their families have come to count on Best Colleges as a vital resource as they navigate one of the most important decisions of their lives," says Eric Gertler, executive chairman and CEO of U.S. News. "The significant changes in this year's methodology are part of the ongoing evolution to make sure our rankings capture what is most important for students as they compare colleges and select the school that is right for them." With these outcomes-focused methodology adjustments, the following schools saw significant increases in their rank: Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (NC) +106 (NC) +106 University of Texas at San Antonio (TX) +92 (TX) +92 California State University, East Bay +88 +88 Florida Gulf Coast University +80 +80 University of Texas Rio Grande Valley +72 Rio Grande Valley +72 Gwynedd Mercy University (PA) +71 University of Nevada, Reno +68 +68 Northern Arizona University +68 +68 The University of Texas at El Paso +68 +68 California State University, Fresno +65 +65 The University of Texas at Arlington +63 +63 Northern Illinois University +62 +62 Aurora University (IL) +62 (IL) +62 Texas Woman's University +62 +62 San Francisco State University (CA) +56 (CA) +56 Florida Atlantic University +54 +54 Augusta University (GA) +52 University of WisconsinOshkosh (WI) +52 Texas State University +51 +51 University of Houston, Clear Lake +51 For the first time, Best Colleges includes undergraduate economics degree and psychology degree rankings. This edition of the rankings also includes specialized rankings, such as the most innovative colleges and universities with the greatest commitment to undergraduate teaching . The 2024 Best Colleges methodology is calculated using 19 key measures of academic quality for National Universities and 13 indicators for the National Liberal Arts Colleges, Regional Universities and Regional Colleges. The formula uses data universally reported by schools or obtainable from third-party sources. As always, schools' eligibility to be ranked is not contingent on participation in U.S. News' surveys. 2024 Best National Universities - Top 3 1. Princeton University (NJ) 2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology 3. Harvard University (MA) (tie) 3. Stanford University (CA) (tie) 2024 Best National Liberal Arts Colleges Top 3 1. Williams College (MA) 2. Amherst College (MA) 3. United States Naval Academy (MD) 2024 Top Public Schools: National Universities Top 3 1. University of California, Berkeley (tie) 1. University of California, Los Angeles (tie) 3. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 2024 Top Public Schools: National Liberal Arts Colleges Top 3 1. United States Naval Academy (MD) 2. United States Air Force Academy (CO) 3. United States Military Academy at West Point (NY) 2024 Top Performers on Social Mobility: National Universities Top 3 1. California State University, Long Beach 2. California State University, Fullerton (tie) 2. California State University, Riverside (tie) 4. California State University, San Bernardino (tie) 4. University of California, Merced (tie) 2024 Top Performers on Social Mobility: National Liberal Arts Colleges Top 3 1. Lake Forest College (IL) 2. Agnes Scott College (GA) (tie) 2. Salem College (NC) (tie) 2. Spelman College (GA) Alongside the rankings, U.S. News publishes editorial content related to the college selection experience. This includes advice on topics such as a complete guide to the application process , how to ask for letters of recommendation , how to apply to college for free and more. On Sept. 28, U.S. News will host a free webinar on the new edition of Best Colleges and its methodology, with presentations from the lead ranking analysts. Those interested in attending can register here . U.S. News' education portfolio also includes the newly acquired CollegeAdvisor.com which offers expert support during the college admissions process. In addition, U.S. News College Compass provides students and their parents with access to the most complete rankings and data. To order a copy of the "Best Colleges 2024" guidebook (ISBN 979-8-9864591-2-7), visit the online U.S. News store . About U.S. News & World Report U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives and communities. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, News, Real Estate, Careers and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C. SOURCE U.S. News & World Report, L.P. JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) elected new members and leadership to its all-volunteer board of directors. Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Ken Hunzeker succeeds Kathleen Widmer as board chair, and Lt. Col. (Ret.) Bill Selman is the new vice chair. In addition, Capt. (Ret.) Florent Groberg, senior director for Azure Government Mission Engineering; Master Gunnery Sgt. (Ret.) Scott H. Stalker, founder and CEO of S2 Stalker Solutions; and Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Lindsey Streeter, senior vice president of veteran and military affairs program lead for Bank of America, were elected to the board. Wounded Warrior Project welcomes new board leadership and directors. Hunzeker, who served in the Army for 35 years, including deputy commanding general of U.S. forces in Iraq, joined the WWP board in 2020 and served most recently as vice chair. He is the former CEO and president of Vectrus, an infrastructure and global logistics company. Previously, Hunzeker served as vice president of government relations at ITT Defense. Hunzeker has been honored as a Distinguished Graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Selman also joined the WWP board in 2020. He is the managing director of Graham Company, one of the country's most extensive insurance and employee benefits brokers. He served five years in various leadership and staff positions in the U.S. Army's combat arms units. In 1988, Selman transferred from active duty to the U.S. Army Reserve and began a 10-year career with Mobil Oil. He retired from military service in 2009 but continues to give back to his community as a volunteer with various nonprofit organizations. Incoming directors Groberg, Stalker, and Streeter add over 69 years of combined military service to WWP's board. Groberg earned his commission as an infantry officer in 2008 and trained in both U.S. Army Airborne and Ranger schools. He received the Medal of Honor, the highest military honor in the United States, for saving the lives of his comrades during a suicide bomber attack while deployed to Afghanistan in 2012. After serving over seven years, Groberg was medically retired as a captain from injuries sustained in that attack. Post-service, he leverages his robust experiences to increase business efficiencies and productivity. He currently serves as a commissioner to the American Battle Monuments Commission. He received his master's degree in management from the University of Maryland University College. Stalker's 31-year career in the U.S. Marines Corps led him to many locations, including Somalia, Iraq, and Afghanistan combat operations. He was a command senior enlisted leader at U.S. Space Command before retiring in August 2023. As a national security expert, Stalker supports several clients and nonprofits, including the National Defense University as a senior fellow, and other customers in the intelligence community, cybersecurity sector, and Space Operations. He has a master's degree in cybersecurity and attended the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, where he became a Secretary of Defense Strategic Thinkers Program CAPSTONE graduate. Streeter joined Bank of America in 2016 after retiring from the U.S. Army as a highly decorated command sergeant major with over 31 years of military service. At Bank of America, Streeter leads veteran and military affairs and is the lead consultant for the bank's Veteran Retention Initiative. He has a master's degree from the University of Arkansas Grantham and is a George W. Bush Institute for Leadership Excellence graduate. Streeter was the Military Times' 2023 Veteran of the Year. WWP bids farewell to board members Kathleen Widmer, Juan Garcia, and Will Reynolds and thanks them for their dedication to and support of WWP. During their tenure, they helped guide WWP's latest strategic plan, which ensures the organization is positioned to continue its mission of serving wounded warriors for years to come. "This year marks 20 years of service for Wounded Warrior Project. We are fortunate to have a dedicated group of accomplished leaders on our board of directors. Their perspectives, insights, and guidance have a tremendous impact," said WWP CEO Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Mike Linnington. "We are grateful to Kathy, Juan, and Will for their service and are excited to work with Ken, Bill, Florent, Scott, Lindsey, and the other directors who will play vital roles in guiding our evolution to meet the growing needs of wounded warriors and their families and caregivers for the next 20 years and more." About Wounded Warrior Project Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers helping them achieve their highest ambition. Learn more. SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. The exchange of prisoners between Iran and the US will take place on September 18, 2023, Spokesman for Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Nasser Kanaani said at todays a press conference in Tehran, Trend reports. So, 2 Iranian citizens will return to Iran, two more said they want to stay in the US, and one more Iranian will go to a third country, where his family lives. Kanaani also revealed that Irans frozen assets in South Korea ($6 billion), will be unblocked and transferred to an account in Qatar, a regional ally of Iran. Iran will have full access to these funds, he added. Iran and the US reached an agreement in August 2023, through the mediation of Qatar, on the exchange of prisoners and the unblocking of Iran's assets in abroad. Iran's frozen assets in South Korea currently amount to $6 billion. --- Follow the author on X (Twitter):@BaghishovElnur BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 18. Iran will use this opportunity when it observes the willingness of all parties to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) to return to the plan, Spokesman for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Nasser Kanaani said at a press conference in Tehran on September 18, Trend reports. According to Kanaani, Iran has repeatedly declared that it is committed to the path of dialogue. There is no limit to the discussions to ensure that all parties responsibly return to the JCPOA. The spokesman added that Iran continues its efforts in all directions to help lift the sanctions imposed against the country. "It is also possible to conduct discussions in this context within the framework of the visit of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to New York," he said. Reportedly, Iranian President Raisi visited the US to attend the UN General Assembly meeting. In January 2016, Iran's nuclear program triggered the creation of the JCPOA between Iran and the P5+1 group (the US, Russia, China, the 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 to 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 to mix it with the enriched uranium residues as part of the third step of reducing commitments in JCPOA. On November 5, 2019, Iran announced that it was taking 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. In January 2020, Iran took the last fifth step in reducing the number of its commitments within the JCPOA. --- Follow the author on X (Twitter):@BaghishovElnur If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here Tripoli, Sep 18 : The special representative of the UN Secretary-General for Libya, Abdoulaye Bathily, has stressed the importance of swift, coordinated and united efforts to recover from the floods that hit eastern Libya last week. Bathily made the remarks in a meeting with President of the Libyan Presidency Council Mohamed Menfi in the capital Tripoli, during which he expressed condolences on behalf of the UN after deadly floods swept the city of Derna and other areas, Bathily wrote on Sunday in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. The UN envoy said he emphasised the need for transparency and accountability in the use of resources during the recovery and reconstruction process and proposed the establishment of an inclusive mechanism to oversee the recovery efforts, Xinhua news agency reported. Bathily also underlined the urgency for Libya to have unified and legitimate institutions to respond effectively to all challenges facing the country. On September 10, Mediterranean storm Daniel triggered the worst floods in Libya in decades, which have so far claimed at least 5,500 lives and left another 10,000 missing, according to official statistics. Oil-rich Libya has been divided for years between rival administrations in the east and west after the fall of the late leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. Ilya Gelfman the new kid on the watch block Sitting in a room of independent watchmakers at the slightly stuffy Hotel Angleterre during Geneva Watch Days, Ilya Gelfman looks like he is there to shake things up. Dressed in a designer t-shirt and trainers, he could be an artist, a musician, a filmmaker -- anything but a watchmaker. However, this young man is starting to blaze a trail in the watchmaking industry, having already received a Grand Prix dHorlogerie de Geneve (GPHG) nomination for the Petite Aiguille award in 2022. Gelfman is in town to present his eponymous watch brand and its introductory model, the IN-16 Nixie, limited to 999 pieces. Composed of two Nixie tubes, the time is displayed inside a grid of wire mesh with shaped electrodes that display the time, date, and battery life in a vibrant orange light. Cloaked in a hand-polished stainless steel case with curved anti-reflective sapphire crystals, the IN-16 Nixie is a watch that immediately catches the eye. IN-16 Nixie Gelfman What is a Nixie Tube? The Nixie Tube was invented in the 1930s, although there is conflicting information about who should be credited with the idea. One thing that enthusiasts do agree on, however, is that the name comes from Burroughs Corp, a business equipment maker who commercialized the invention and called it Numeric Indicator X (or ten). Nixie tubes went on to be widely used in electronic equipment such as calculators and early digital clocks, but also marked history by indicating everything from data for NASAs moon landing to the rise and fall of the Wall Street Stock Exchange. The unique orange glow of their display was ubiquitous in the 1950s but their popularity started to wane in the 1970s with the arrival of new display technologies such as LED and LCD. Luckily, thanks to enthusiasts like Gelfman, they are now being appreciated by a new generation of retro-technology lovers. Power pack Gelfman has acquired over 100,000 tubes of old stock Nixie tubes from his native Russia, but also from Japan, the UK, and the USA, ensuring his movement supply for some years to come -- a smart move when the mechanical watch industry is struggling to keep up with demand. And even though this technology is over 70 years old, it can be powered by an integrated rechargeable lithium-ion battery that gives five days of autonomy on a single charge, which is much better than the majority of smartwatches. It can also be connected to a computer app for easy setting. IN-16 Nixie Gelfman How does it work? There are two ways to activate it. The first is by flicking the wrist which illuminates the tubes thanks to an integrated gyroscope. The sensitivity of the flicking can also be set through the app to match its owners wrist strength. The second way to read the time is via a button on the front of the watch. One push and the time flashes onto the dial, with the hours first, minutes next and then the seconds. Two pushes show the date day followed by the month and three pushes indicate the remaining battery level as a percentage. Distributing the IN-16 Nixie Not only is Gelfman doing his own thing in terms of production, but he is also distributing his watch solely on Instagram and his website. He also has another unusual concept in his business plan where he raises the price of the watch by three Euros per day. The watch started at 5,000 and is now (at the time of publishing) 6,999. Madness or genius? The waitlist would indicate the latter. Despite the gradually increasing price, it is still relatively affordable (in comparison to other unusual high-end mechanical watches) for a watch that offers something completely out of the ordinarybut if you like it, dont wait too long, the clock is ticking (or flashing in this case)! Baghdad, Sep 18 : A Turkish drone strike in northern Iraq has killed a senior member and three militants of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), the Counter-Terrorism Service of the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region said in a statement. They were killed at 3 p.m. local time when a Turkish drone attacked their vehicle on a road in the Chalmir area of Sinjar mountain, nearly 120 km west of Nineveh's provincial capital Mosul, the statement said on Sunday. The Turkish forces frequently carry out ground operations, airstrikes, and artillery bombardments in northern Iraq against the PKK, especially in the Qandil mountains, the main base of the group, Xinhua news agency reported. The PKK, listed as a terrorist organisation by Turkey, the US, and the European Union, has been rebelling against the Turkish government for more than three decades. Sitapur : , Sep 18 (IANS) Nearly 15 people have been bitten by stray dogs in the past 24 hours in the Khairabad area of Uttar Pradesh's Sitapur district, officials said. There are distressing accounts of stray dogs mauling and injuring 15 individuals, including seven children, within the past day. Among the victims are Rehan, 9; Mahendra, 7; and Shivani, 10; Altama, 10; Mohammad Kaif, 11; Ritesh, 4; Mohammed Sohail, 32; Abrar Ahmed, 32; Brajesh Kumar, 38; Kashi Ram, 27; Ramendra Shukla, 69, among others. The families of these dog bite victims rushed them to Khairabad community health centre (CHC) for treatment. The injured have since been discharged after receiving treatment, according to CHC officials. Meanwhile, residents of Laliapur town cornered a stray dog that had been attacking children and beat the dog to death. Municipal EO Prem Shankar Gupta said that a team from Lucknow will be summoned to capture the stray dogs. At the same time, CHC Superintendent Ramashankar Yadav revealed, "Over the past month, 106 individuals have received rabies injections at the CHC." However, all attempts to contact District Magistrate of Sitapur proved futile. The resurgence of dog bites in Khairabad is a matter of concern because six years ago, in 2017-18, dogs had unleashed terror when they attacked children in Mahsingpur, Budhanpur, Chaubeypur, Peepur, Tikariya, and Gurpalia villages in the Khairabad block of Sitapur. During that period, 14 innocent children lost their lives due to dog bites, and 75 people were injured by these canines. At that time, several animal rights activists protested against action targetting the dogs. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath himself visited Sitapur after taking note of the deaths of two innocent individuals in Gurpaliya village. He had issued directives to the Forest department and the district administration to apprehend stray dogs. Subsequently, hundreds of dogs were captured by a special team of dog catchers from Lucknow. Rae Bareli, Sep 18 : The police have arrested seven people for allegedly converting people to Christianity by luring them with promises of "good food and English education" in Uttar Pardesh's Rae Bareli. The arrests were made on Sunday evening. Those arrested have been identified as Ram Ratan Shankar, Laxmi Shankar, Rajendra Sewak, Pawan Kishan, Rahul Prasad, Virendra Lal and Akhilesh Kumar. Lalganj SHO Shiv Shankar Sing, said that one Pitambar Kumar of Bindaganj had informed UP112 that Ram Ratan Shankar had organised a prayer at his residence on Sunday and was luring innocent villagers to embrace Christianity by offering them good food and English education. "A team reached the residence of Ram Ratan to find that they were organizing a prayer and over a dozen villagers were participating. They were being given religious sermons along with booklets and pamphlets while they were being persuaded to convert," the police said. In the last nine months, around 90 people have been arrested in Uttar Pradesh for allegedly converting villagers to Christianity. ENDS/ Prayagraj, Sep 18 : The Allahabad High Court has granted bail to former police circle officer Aley Hasan Khan in connection with all 26 cases registered against him, alleging that he, along with former Uttar Pradesh Minister Azam Khan, helped in illegally grabbing land for Jauhar University in Rampur. It was alleged in the FIRs filed by the revenue officer and other tenure holders (farmers) that former Minister Azam Khan and then CO (city) Aley Hasan Khan had threatened and pressured the farmers to execute sale deeds in favour of the Maulana Mohammad Ali Jauhar University. It was also alleged that the former police officer and minister had also threatened to implicate them in false cases and that they were even kept in lock-up for a day and their land was illegally merged into the campus of the university. Allowing the bail application filed by Aley Hasan Khan in all the 26 cases, where allegations were more or less the same, Justice Raj Beer Singh observed, "The FIRs of all the cases have been lodged after a delay of about 14 to 15 years. In the FIRs, no date, time, or place of the alleged incidents have been mentioned. There is no such allegation that the applicant is in possession of any of the disputed land of any of the complainant. No sale deed has been executed in favour of the applicant-accused. It was shown that the applicant accused is neither the founder nor the trustee or member of the said Trust. It has also been shown that main co-accused Mohd Azam Khan, who is founder/trustee of the said Trust, has already been granted bail." The court observed, "Applicant is languishing in jail since May 7, 2023 and investigation of all the cases is complete and charge sheets have already been submitted in the court. Hence, without expressing any opinion on the merits of the cases, a case for bail is made out." Earlier, counsel for the applicant had contended that the FIRs were lodged against the applicant after a delay of several years due to political vendetta. "The applicant retired from services on June 30, 2017 and soon after his retirement, police registered many cases against him within a span of two months, under the influence of the ruling party of the state," added the counsel for the applicant. --IANSamita/dpb Kanpur, Sep 18 : Two men have been arrested from a hotel in Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur on charges of religious conversion. Preliminary investigations revealed that the wife of a jeweller from Govind Nagar area of the city fell into the trap of the two Muslim men from Agra and changed her religion. Moreover, she wanted her husband, father-in-law and son to convert too, but, as soon as information reached the Bajrang Dal workers, they came to the hotel and created a ruckus and demanded immediate action against the two Muslim men. On the basis of a complaint, police registered an FIR and arrested the two men. According to information, a resident of Govind Nagar owns a jewellery shop in the area and his wife came in contact with Agra residents Chand and Sohail, both 26 years old, through a mobile-app. She left home and took along her minor son and her jewellery, besides other belongings from the house and converted to Islam. On Saturday, along with the two Muslim men, she checked into a hotel in Kanpur, where she invited her husband and in-laws and began influencing them to convert to Islam. Her husband, however, informed Krishna Tiwari, city president of Bajrang Dal and reached the hotel along with activists of the outfit. Police reached the spot and arrested Chand and Sohail after registering an FIR against them. ACP Collectorganj Nishant Sharma said the police raided the hotel on the complaint of jeweller. "Two persons have been arrested on charges of conversion and investigations are on," he added. --IANSamita/dpb Chennai, Sep 18 : The Chenniamalai police in Tamil Nadu's Erode district have commenced a probe into an attack allegedly by a group of right extremists on a Christian family in their village. According to police, the attack came when the family was holding prayers attheir home. Samuel (33), his wife Jennifer, their three-year-old son, his father Arujunan, mother Rathinam, and younger sister Behula sufferred injuries after a group of people allegedly belonging to a right extreme group assaulted them. Earlier, the local villagers, including neighbours, had complained against Samuel and his family for conducting prayers loudly. Police sources told IANS that the family tried to record the assault,but the gang broke the phone. M.K. Sarvanan, Inspector of Police, Chenniamalai police station told media persons that the police reached the spot immediately on getting information but by then the gang had dispersed. He said that the police is on an investigation and will bring the culprits before the law. Sources in the neighbourhood of Samuel told IANS that many people were of the belief that he was engaged in religious propaganda and conversion and that the assault may be due to this. Bhopal, Sep 18 : Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will be addressing a public rally in Madhya Pradesh's Rewa district on Monday. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will accompany him. The duo would be addressing their third public rally in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh. It would, however, be AAP's second public rally in Vindhya region, which is closely connected with Uttar Pradesh. Last time, the duo had visited to campaign for the party in Satna district on August 20 and had made several promises to the people. The AAP has released its first list of 10 candidates for Madhya Pradesh, two of them from Vindhya region. It has fielded Anendra Mishra, son of senior BJP leader and former MP Govind Mishra, from the Churhat Assembly seat of Sidhi district. In the 2018 Assembly polls, the BJP had won the Churhat seat. The hometown of former Chief Minister (late) Arjun Singh who won several elections from here, however, lost in 2018 against BJP's Sartendu Tiwari. Although, the AAP cadres were hardly seen raising public issues in Madhya Pradesh like they used to do in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab before the elections, it would be seeking public support in presenting its Delhi development agenda. The AAP has been focusing on two regions in MP -- Vindhya and Gwalior-Chambal. Despite having direct contests between two main political parties -- Congress and BJP, other parties like Uttar Pradesh-based Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj party (BSP) have also secured support in these regions. Perhaps seeing the SP and BSP's political ground shrinking in these two regions, the AAP is attempting to establish itself as a third front and is trying to make some presence felt in Madhya Pradesh. --IANSpd/dpb PM Modi to address LS on first day of special session. Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, Sep 18 : Prime minister Narendra Modi will address the Lok Sabha at 11 a.m. on the first day of the special session of Parliament Monday, sources informed. The session will be held in the existing Parliament House, however from September 19 onwards, the session will resume from the new building. Parliamentary affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said that on Monday the special session will begin in the existing Parliament House, while on Tuesday, a photo session will be held in the existing building. After that, a function will be held in the Central Hall of Parliament and then the session will resume from the new building, Joshi said. "Once the sittings of the special session begin from the new Parliament building on September 19, they will held there till September 22," the minister told mediapersons. A discussion on the 75 years journey of Parliament will be held on Monday. --IANSans/dpb Los Angeles, Sep 18 : Hollywood icon Arnold Schwarzenegger celebrated 40 years of US citizenship with a post on social media. The bodybuilder-turned-actor-turned-politician-turned avid donkey owner posted a series of photos this weekend that chronicled his time growing up in Austria before he arrived here in 1968 - all while audio of his speech from the 2004 Republican National Convention plays in the background, reports Deadline. Arnoldbecame a citizen on September 17, 1983. "My fellow Americans, this an amazing moment for me," it begins. "To think that a once scrawny boy from Austria could grow up to become governor of the state of California, that is an immigrant's dream. In school when the teacher would talk about America, I would daydream about coming here." "I would daydream about living here. As long as I live, I will never forget the day when I raised my right hand and I took the oath of citizenship. You know how proud I was? I was so proud that I walked around with the American flag around my shoulders all day long." The gallery also includes photos of Arnoldas a youth growing up in Austria, as California's governor, and as a family man. "It is one of the proudest days of my life," Arnoldwrote. "I owe everything to America. Born in Austria, Made in America!" Arnold recently made his series television debut in Netflix's spy adventure series 'Fubar', which was renewed for a second season. 'Fubar' centers on a CIA operative on the verge of retirement who discovers a family secret and is forced to go back into the field for one last job. The series tackles universal family dynamics set against a global backdrop of spies, action and humour. New Delhi, Sep 18 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday urged all lawmakers to give maximum time to the special session of Parliament. Addressing the media outside the Parliament building before the commencement of the five-day special session, PM Modi said, "I urge all members to give maximum time to this special session of Parliament." "This Parliament session may be small in duration but is big on occasion, it is a session of historic developments," he added. He highlighted the success of India's moon mission and G20 meeting during his remarks. "Shiv Shakti Point (landing site of Chandrayaan-3) has become a new centre of inspiration, Tiranga Point (location on the Moon near the lunar south pole where Chandrayaan-2's lander Vikram crashed) fills us with pride," said the Prime Minister. "An atmosphere of festivity, enthusiasm prevails in the country, nation feeling a new self-confidence," he said. --IANSans/dpb Spoiler alert: some ways are more interesting than others Weve seen quite a number of watch launches over the past couple of weeks, mostly thanks to Geneva Watch Days (GWD), but also a few unexpected surprises that pretty much came out of nowhere. Generally speaking, there are a few ways that watch brands tend to do this, but they all revolve around some kind of big reveal, which makes sense in terms of getting attention. How the reveal is structured, however, can vary from launch to launch. There is the unannounced drop, like the Blancpain collaboration with Swatch that happened last weekend. Although there were restrained hints on the respective social media channels of each brand not to mention the wild speculation online within collector groups the news pretty much hit the ground like a flaming meteor. For a few years now, Audemars Piguet have also been taking this route for certain (not all) of their new releases, with zero media build-up, just casually sending the news out across journalist inboxes once the watch has been officially launched. Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms Indian Ocean Blancpain Others go to the opposite extreme, sending information out to journalists months in advance, under protection of a press embargo, meeting with individual writers and editors to craft article angles and coverage. Of course, this was a lot more common when print media was predominant and required extensive lead time in order to make print deadlines, but it still happens in the digital realm to a certain extent. Most launches fall somewhere in between. They dont go to all the effort of coordinating a big media push, but neither do they just spring out at you with no warning. They get in touch a week, maybe two weeks, before. They mention to you when you meet with them, that theyre releasing a new thing soon and to keep an eye out for the press release coming your way. If youre lucky and the timing is just right, they might even have a prototype on hand for you to check out (after youve put your smartphone away, obviously). The type of product rollout selected is usually driven by the watch itself. If you put yourself in the shoes of a brand thats about to launch something new, what would you prioritise in terms of audience and media response? The quantity of discussion? The quality of discussion? The amount of variety within that discussion? The tone of the discussion (positive or negative, sophisticated or lowbrow)? It depends on the watch. That is to say, there isnt a right or wrong answer to any of these, but its interesting to examine various watch launch campaigns and try to analyse what theyre motivated by. Was X brand chasing a big media buzz when they launched that watch? Did Y brand offer exclusive information and interview opportunities to particular journalists with the intention of tapping into the community of hardcore mechanical movement nerds? Did the marcomms people over at Z brand deliberately set out to control the conversation with strict non-disclosure agreements and an intimidatingly comprehensive library of press assets and talking points that journalists were encouraged to use? Im going to volunteer a piece of information about writers, reporters and journalists. People who end up in this profession are not really that great at parroting official lines. We are an inquisitive and opinionated bunch, and our threshold of belief is pretty high meaning we rarely take things at face value. A lot of us were admonished as young children to stop asking so many questions and just accept what others (parents, teachers, random figures of authority) were saying. If you ever meet a writer and ask them why they chose that career, the answer is probably not going to be because they enjoyed being told what to think. As contradictory as it sounds for me to say this, I dont actually like press releases as a concept. I recognise their necessity, and I certainly respect the work that goes into them, but I think they take away a great part of the pleasure of being a journalist, which is to Go Out And Discover Stuff. I want to have a watch in my hand; I want to ask questions of the people who made it, who designed it, who conceived it. I want to create a story based on what I find out from talking to all these people, a story that I think will speak to my audience and what interests them. A one-size-fits-all press release cant do that for me. If that sentiment has a slight ring of hypocrisy to your ears after all, I have written a few press releases myself over the years let me put it this way. In writing a press release, Im actually doing all those things I just described above. Im not just ingesting and regurgitating information from a fixed source. I am Going Out And Discovering Stuff. Theres no set message yet, the press release hasnt been written yet (because in that situation, Im the one writing it, duh). I am holding the watch, talking to its creators, and crafting a story that will help the watch come alive in the minds of those who read it afterwards. I am, in fact, writing my perfect article. And in an ideal world of horological discourse, I think thats what all watch writing should be like. No official mandated message. No brand-issued beautifully worded narrative about watchmaking heritage and rediscovering brand patrimony. Maybe just a technical sheet with a table of information on it. Youre supposed to let art speak for itself, arent you? If your watchmaking is art, why not let it speak for itself? For years now, Ive been planting this idea among the brand executives Im on a friendly basis with, but so far no ones been adventurous enough to actually take it up. I hope it happens one day. Writers can be as inventive and creative as the watches they come across. Why not see what they really have to say? Hyderabad, Sep 18 : Municipal authorities in Hyderabad have sealed a hotel due to severe food safety and hygiene concerns. The Food Safety Wing of Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) sealed Alpha Hotel in Secunderabad after it found that the management failed to take corrective measures to maintain hygienic conditions in the hotel. The follow-up inspection was conducted on Sunday, two days after the first inspection following a complaint by a customer. The officials during the first inspection had found significant irregularities in the hotelas adherence to safety standards. They had collected food samples on suspicion of violation of provisions of Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and sent the same to the state food laboratory. The officials had issued a notice to the hotel management asking it to close the premises and rectify the identified issues. However, during the follow-up inspection the officials found that the management has not taken required steps to improve hygienic conditions. The Food Security Wing officials said that the management had failed to address the food safety concerns adequately. Following their report, GHMC decided to seal the hotel. The municipal body wrote to the district administration for further actions against the hotelas management. Earlier, the police had booked the management of the popular hotel after a customer complained that he fell ill after having breakfast at the hotel on September 15. Mohammed Zameeruddin had complained to Monda Market police station that he along with his friends had ordered Mutton Kheema Roti. One of them Mahmood suddenly started vomiting. The complainant alleged that an unpleasant odor was emanating from the dish. The police had registered a case under Sections 273 and 336 of the Indian Penal Code. New Delhi, Sep 18 : There is a 'triple danger' looming over markets in the near-term: dollar index above 105, steadily rising US 10-year bond now around 4.39 per cent and the Brent crude above $94, says V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services. These are significant macro risks which the market cannot ignore for long. FIIs refraining from big selling is because of the FOMO (fear of missing out) factor, he said. Investors should exercise caution, particularly in the over-heated mid-and small-cap segments. Safety is in large-caps, he added. The participation of large-cap bluechips across sectors has been giving strength to the rally which has taken the Nifty well above 21,000 level, he said. The fact that the fairly valued banking segment has been a significant contributor to the recent rally also is a positive development. PSU banks like BoB, Canara Bank and Indian Bank are even now attractively valued, he added. Vaishali Parekh, Vice President - Technical Research, Prabhudas Lilladher said Nifty index continue to record new highs touching the 20,200 levels during the intraday session and is poised for further gains in the coming sessions with near term-target expected till 20,300-20,350 zone. The broader markets once again are regaining strength with significant participation visible from the mid-cap and small-cap counters supporting the index for further gains. The support for the day is seen at 20,100 levels while the resistance is seen at 20,350 levels, Parekh said. BSE Sensex is down 155 points at 67,682 points. Infosys, HDFC Bank, Wipro are down more than 1 per cent. PM Modi arrives to address media on the first day of the monsoon session of Parliament. Image Source: IANS News Jaipur, Sep 18 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in Jaipur on September 25 to address the closing ceremony of four 'Parivartan Yatras'. The four Yatras will conclude in Alwar, Jaipur, Kota and Jodhpur between September 19-22. The main closing ceremony called the 'Parivartan Sankalp Mahasammelan' will be held in Jaipur on September 25. "This Yatra will be a historic function and there will be a huge gathering in which party workers and citizens will participate", said Narayan Panchariya, Convenor of the State Election Management Committee. Earlier, the meeting was scheduled to be held in Dhankya in Jaipur, where the Jan Sangh founder Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya was born. September 25 is Upadhyaya's birth anniversary and earlier Modi's meeting was to be held in Dhankya itself. However, the BJP wants to take political mileage by making it a mega event so the meeting's venue was changed from Dhankya to Ajmer Road. There are 52,000 booths in Rajasthan and 10 workers from each booth have been called for the meeting. The Prime Minister has been to Rajasthan eight times in the last 11 months. When Modi visited the Amba Mata temple in Gujarat on September 30 last year he went there via Abu Road in Sirohi district. Modi's next visit was to the Mangarh Dham in Banswara on November 1, 2022 followed by a visit to Bhilwara for the third time on January 8 this year. Modi had participated in the birth anniversary celebrations of Devnarayan, the revered deity of the Gujjar community. On February 12 the Prime Minister came to Dausa district for the inauguration of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway and on May 10 he addressed large gatherings at Nathdwara and Abu Road. During his sixth visit to the state on May 31, Modi launched the BJP's mega public relations campaign in Ajmer and on July 8 he inaugurated the Amritsar-Jamnagar Express Highway in Bikaner. He also laid the foundation stone of schemes worth Rs 24,300 crore. Recently, on July 27, Modi addressed a public meeting in Sikar. Patna, Sep 18 : Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday claimed that the BJP wanted to hold early elections in the country, and he was ready for them. The Chief Minister said this in Patna while reacting to the statement of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Shah had said during his address after inaugurating SSB office in Bihar's Araria on September 16 that "the situation in Bihar is not right and soon BJP will form the government under the leadership of Narendra Modi". Reacting to this CM Kumar said: "They want to do early election in the country. We are waiting for them to conduct the early election. The sooner they do early elections, the better for us. We are ready for it." "The Indian government has a right to conduct a parliamentary election early. Whenever they do, it will be good for us," Kumar said in the presence of his ministers, including Tejashwi Yadav, Vijay Kumar Chaudhary, Ashok Chaudhary and others. Shah on September 16 visited two districts of Bihar in Madhubani where he addressed a rally in Jhanjharpur and inaugurated an SSB building in Araria. Taipei, Sep 18 : In 24-hour period, China's military sent 103 warplanes towards Taiwan, which the island's defense ministry claimed on Monday was a new daily record in recent times. The planes were noticed between 6 a.m. on Sunday and 6 a.m. on Monday, the ministry said. As is customary, they turned back before reaching Taiwan. China, which asserts Taiwan as part of its territory, has conducted increasingly large military drills in the air and waters around Taiwan as tensions have grown between the two and with the United States. The US, which is Taiwan's main supplier of arms, opposes any attempt to change Taiwan's status through force. Taiwan's Defense Ministry said that 40 of the planes crossed the symbolic halfway point between mainland China and the island. It also reported nine naval vessels in the last 24 hours. The ministry called the Chinese military action "harassment" and warned that it could escalate the current tense atmosphere. "We urge the Beijing authorities to bear responsibility and immediately stop such kind of destructive military activities," it said in a statement.'' China last week sent a flotilla of ships including the aircraft carrier Shandong into waters near Taiwan. The drills came shortly after the US and Canada sailed warships through the Taiwan Strait, the waters that separate the island from the mainland. China also revealed a plan for an integrated development demonstration zone with Taiwan in China's nearby Fujian province, trying to entice Taiwan while also warning it. Experts say it is China's long-running carrot and stick approach. The recent actions by China may be an attempt to sway Taiwan's presidential election slated to be held in January. The ruling Democratic Progressive Party, which leans towards formal independence for the island, is anathema to the Chinese government. China favours opposition candidates who support working with the mainland. Taiwan and China split in 1949 when the communists took control of China during a civil war. The losing Nationalists fled to Taiwan and set up their own government in the island. The island is self-governing, though only a few foreign nations give it official diplomatic recognition. The US among others has formal ties with China while it maintains a representative office in Taiwan. Bengaluru : Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and other leaders participate in an event organised to mark the International Day of Democracy. Image Source: IANS News Bengaluru, Sep 18 : The Cauvery dispute is set to escalate with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressing his inability to share water with neighbouring Tamil Nadu citing insufficient water in Cauvery basin dams. He was speaking to reporters in Kalaburagi on Sunday. The ruling Congress is in a fix over the issue as releasing water to Tamil Nadu for drinking purposes, standing crops and industrial usage, will lead to water shortage in the state for the crops. "We do not have water to release. An appeal petition is being filed with the Supreme Court and the court has questioned the state on non-compliance of orders of the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA)," he had stated on Sunday. "If at all we want to release the water, our requirement is 106 tmc. We have only 53 tmc of water availability. For drinking water purposes 30 tmc is required, to save standing crops 70 tmc and for industries 3 tmc water is needed. There is no water with us to release," CM Siddaramaiah underlined. In a normal year 177.25 tmc of water is released. Until now only 37.7 tmc of water has been released. "We were supposed to release 99 tmc of water, we have not released," the CM said. The CWMA had directed to release 5,000 cusecs of water, since there is water shortage, the state had not released it, he said. He maintained that during the tenure of Yediyurappa also, the Cauvery water was released to Tamil Nadu. Bengaluru, Sep 18 : The Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with much fervour across Karnataka on Monday. The festival will go on for 10 days. Including Bengaluru, coastal region and north and south Karnataka, preparations are made for installations of huge Ganesh idols. The festival is celebrated with much fervour this year as during previous years the celebrations were marred due to the shadow of the Covid pandemic. In South Karnataka, people thronged ant-hills early in the morning for worshipping as the Nag Panchami is celebrated along with the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. In a noble gesture, Muslims have decided to postpone the procession of the Eid-Milad festival in Belagavi city. The Hindu community has decided to celebrate immersion of Ganesh idol on September 28 and the Eid procession was also supposed to be held on September 28. The Ganesh festival is celebrated for 119 years in Belagavi and the procession is historical. As Muslims also take out the procession during the Eid-Milad, the police department faces it tough to handle the law and order situation. The religious body the Anjuman-E-Islam and Muslim religious heads have held a meeting and decided to hold the procession of the Eid-Milad on October 1. The Muslim community leaders have stated that they will take part in the Ganesh festival and procession and they will also invite Hindus to the Eid-Milad. Belagavi North Congress MLA Raju Sait stated that the gesture by the Muslim community will create harmony in the society. Vikasa Kalaghatagi, an organiser from Ganesh Mandali, described the decision of Muslim community as historical. Hindus and Muslims both will celebrate the Ganesh Chaturthi and Eid-Milad festivals, he stated. Shivamogga city is celebrating the Ganesh festival with much fanfare. One of the largest Ganesh idols is installed in the city and nearly a lakh people congregate for the procession during immersion of the idol. The police have made elaborate security arrangements as skirmishes during the festivities had led to communal clashes in the city. New Delhi, Sep 18 : The Supreme Court on Monday asked Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren to approach the state high court to challenge the summons issued to him by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a money laundering case. "Why don't you go the high court?," asked a bench comprising Justices Aniruddha Bose and Bela M. Trivedi to senior advocate Mukul Rohtagi, representing Soren. Rohtagi explained that CM Soren approached the top court as similar pleas challenging the vires of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 are already pending before it. The bench granted the liberty to approach the jurisdictional high court dismissing the plea as withdrawn and declined to pass any interim relief in the matter. The apex court did not appreciate the contention raised by Additional Solicitor General S.V. Raju, appearing for ED, that the plea challenged the proceedings only at the stage of summons, adding that the petitioner "has all the rights to challenge" it. CM Soren approached the Supreme Court after the anti-money laundering agency summoned him to appear before it on August 24 in connection with the land grabbing case, where the central agency has already arrested 13 people, including an IAS officer. Previously, the Chief Minister of the state was questioned in connection with the illegal mining case for around 10 hours along with his wife at ED's Ranchi office. Recently on September 17, fresh summons were issued to Soren for a fourth time to join the probe initiated by the anti-money laundering agency. During investigation, it has been revealed that the accused used documents from 1932 to wrongfully seize people's lands and would tell the victims that their lands had already been sold by their fathers or grandfathers. The accused allegedly took possession of the lands given on lease to the Army and fraudulently sold them elsewhere. Although the case is from Jharkhand, its ramifications are extended to Bihar and Kolkata. Seoul, Sep 18 : North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has left the Far Eastern city of Vladivostok for home after "successfully" completing a visit to Russia that will open up a "new chapter" in their bilateral relations, Pyongyang's state media reported on Monday. During the six-day trip, Kim held a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday and toured a series of key military sites amid growing concern about possible military cooperation between the two countries. "Kim Jong Un, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, left Vladivostok City on September 17 after successfully completing the schedule of his official goodwill visit to the Russian Federation," the North's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said. During his stay, Kim pledged to throw his full support behind Putin, saying the Russian army and people will triumph over "evil" forces, in an apparent endorsement of Russia's war in Ukraine. Kim also went on a tour of Russia's Far East, visited key military facilities in the region and held talks with Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu in Vladivostok to discuss strengthening bilateral military cooperation and exchanges. The makeup of his entourage and the selection of Russia's space facility as the venue for talks spawned speculation that North Korea may agree to supply Russia with ammunition and weaponry in exchange for food aid and a transfer of weapons technology from Moscow, such as those involving spy satellites and nuclear-powered submarines. The KCNA said Kim's visit will be marked as "further consolidating the traditional ties of good neighbour and cooperation" between the two countries "based on the comradely friendship and militant unity and opening up a new chapter of the development of the bilateral relations." This was the longest overseas trip by Kim since taking power. Including travel time, the North Korean leader spent a total of eight days on his visit to Russia. South Korea has warned against possible military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, with the presidential National Security Council warning that the countries will "clearly pay the price" should they engage in actions violating the United Nations Security Council resolutions. Seoul's unification ministry spokesperson, Koo Byoung-sam, reiterated the stance in a press briefing Monday and said the government will "closely monitor" signs of possible cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow. New Delhi, Sep 18 : Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday began his speech on the first day of the special session with a poem and advised the government that "if it cannot do anything then leave the chair", and also took a jibe, saying that the Centre was trying to scare a strong opposition with the ED to weaken it. Kharge, who is also the Congress president, in his opening note in the Rajya Sabha said, "If you want to change then change the situation now. What happens by changing names like this? If you want to give employment to the youth what happens by making everyone unemployed? Try expanding your heart a little, what happens when you kill people? If you can't do anything, leave your chair. What happens if you scare each other? You are proud of your rule, what happens by bullying people?" Chairman Dhankhar responded with the number of disruptions that took place in the Rajya Sabha during different sessions and objected to the Opposition's 'disrespecting' the decision of the Chair. With his poem, Kharge indirectly took a jibe at the government accusing it of focusing on weakening the "strong" Opposition through central agencies like CBI and ED. He said that first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru believed in strong opposition. Nehru had even said that if there is no strong opposition then there is a serious flaw in the system. "Now when there is a strong opposition then they want to make it weak with the ED and the CBI and then put them in their washing machine to clean it," Kharge said. Hitting out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kharge said that now the Prime Minister comes and goes. "Today, Manipur is burning and till date the people are being killed, violence is happening. And when so many things are happening then also he hardly issues any statement. "He goes to several parts of the country, but why is he not going to Manipur," Kharge said. To this Dhankhar said that "when he went to your constituency you have a problem", then Kharge replied that "I have no problem if he is going to work there". Kharge also said that former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee gave statements 21 times, Manmohan Singh gave statements 30 times during their tenure. "However apart from a few 'customary comments', PM Modi gave his statement only twice," Kharge said. The LoP also recalled the works of the Congress government and said, "What we got is the biggest thing. The voting power before 1935 was given to those who used to pay tax, were with the educated and those who had lands. But the Constitution formed by Jawaharlal Nehru, BR Ambedkar and Vallabhbhai Patel in the Constituent Assembly gave the right for franchise to each and every people whether poor or rich," Kharge said. Taking a swipe at the BJP for calling the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc as INDI Alliance, Kharge said, "To shorten the word (BJP President JP) Nadda sahib says INDI Alliance, whatever you call we are INDIA." He then also hailed the role of the Congress leaders for laying the foundation of the country and said that "our leaders gave a Constitution that has kept up the aspirations of the people". He also said that when India got freedom many countries believed that it would not succeed as a nation and will fail. "Many foreign people had thought that India will fail as a nation because most of the people are illiterate. And (US President Winston) Churchill said that as the Britishers have left now the judiciary, health services, railways and the development would stop in India. How will they continue with democracy? But we proved them wrong," he said. "We showed them how we strengthened and developed as a nation, we saved democracy and the Constitution. But yet people ask '70 saal me kya kia' (what have you done in the last 70 years)? We did only this, we saved democracy, we saved the Constitution and took the country forward," Kharge said in an apparent swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP. Hailing the role of non-violence movement of Mahatma Gandhi, the Congress leader said that we got freedom not on the power of guns but due to the non violence movement of Gandhiji. We still follow the same path. "In this building in the last 75 years, the face of the country has changed and many decisions were taken for the people including the abolition of the Zamindari system. And he also focused on how we need to work with pace to develop," he said. He said that in the first Cabinet, Nehru used to take everyone along and he even included five opposition leaders in his cabinet. "But now you do not want to see our shadow," he said, taking a potshot at the BJP. Nehru stayed in jail for 14 years, he laid the foundation for many industries and many public sectors. And in five years we moved forward. And Nehru used to listen to the opposition with patience, whereas the Prime Minister now does not come to Parliament," he said, adding that if he comes then it will be a relief for (Piyush) Goyal. The famous actress Kristin Davis, who has been condemning Russian aggression since the first days of the full-scale war, met with Ukrainian refugees. To do this, she arrived in Chisinau, Moldova. ADVERTISIMENT The star of the cult TV series Sex and the City is a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador. It was in this capacity that she met with Ukrainians who were forced to leave their homes because of the terrorist war. Davis' photos were posted on the organization's Instagram page. In Chisinau, the 58-year-old actress talked to Ukrainian women and entertained young Ukrainians. In the published photo, you can see her smiling sweetly in the company of children doing handicrafts. "It is a great honor for me to be here in Moldova, to spend time with Ukrainian refugees and locals. They have united as one, bringing hope to this very sad situation. I was deeply touched by the extraordinary strength shown by the refugees. No one plans to become a refugee, and despite the painful experience of being separated from their loved ones, many are rebuilding their lives in Moldova," Charlotte York said in an interview with the Daily Mail. ADVERTISIMENT The actress also shared a photo with Ukrainian children on her social media. She continues to support the people of Ukraine, urging her fans around the world to help Ukrainians. Earlier, OBOZREVATEL wrote that Prince William arrived in Poland, where he visited one of the shelters for Ukrainian refugees. About 300 women and children from Ukraine, who were forced to leave their homes because of the full-scale war, live there. The eldest son of King Charles III of Great Britain not only talked to them, but also entertained the children with his company. Only verified information is available on our Obozrevatel Telegram channel and Viber. Don't fall for fakes! Jaipur, Sep 18 : Intermittent rain, since the last three days, has brought down the temperature in the desert state providing much-needed respite from heat and humidity. The rain continued on Monday morning in Jaipur leaving schoolchildren and office-goers in the lurch. Western Railways have cancelled a few trains in wake of heavy rain with water crossing the danger mark in Bharuch Ankleshwar railway block under Baroda division. Mumbai central-Jaipur train (12479) has been cancelled on September 18, also Jaipur-Mumbai Central shall remain cancelled on Monday. Further, among few trains which have been partially suspended is Jodhpur-Bandra Terminus. This train which left Jodhpur on Sunday will terminate at Vadodara and not till Bandra. Similarly, Bandra Terminus-Jodhpur train which starts from Bandra will start from Vadodara station and shall remain partially suspended between Bandra Terminus and Vadodara. Also, Ajmer Dadar railway service which departed from Ajmer on Sunday for Dadar will terminate at Ahmedabad, said North Western Chief Public Relation officer Captain Shashi Kiran on Monday. Meanwhile, met department officials confirmed the temperature has gone down by 6 degrees Celsius below normal in Jaipur, bringing relief from heat and humidity, while a cold breeze at night gavea wintry feel. Strong winds coupled with showers, brought down the minimum temperature to 22 degrees in Jaipur on Sunday night. Jaipur city received 5 mm of rain in the past 24 hours. Mumbai, Sep 18 : In a shocker, ration-card holders have complained that edible soil supplied to them under a state government's discount ration-kit scheme is allegedly manufactured and distributed by a company whose license has been suspended, here on Monday. The complaints first emanated from Tandulwadi village in Solapur and then Mumbai, Thane and other parts of the state where the 'Anandache Shidha' costing Rs 100 are being distributed for the festival season. Inaugurated on September 8, the Anandache Shidha comprises 1-kg each cooking oil, rava, chana-dal and sugar, costing Rs 100/per family which holds two types of ration-cards. Around 1.57-crore Anandache Shidha kits will be distributed to benefit around 7.50 crore people, said Food & Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal at the inauguration. However, in Solapur and other places, the beneficiaries have objected to the oil packet ostensibly manufactured and supplied by Kirti Agrotech Ltd. Solapur, whose manufacturing licence has been cancelled. "The oil packets have expired and many people threw them away in the drains as it could be dangerous to consume such oil," alleged a Shiv Sena (UBT) Consumer Protection Cell activist from Solapur, Mallinath Mali. When contacted, the government-authorised Tandulwadi ration shop owner, Vishwajeet J. Meru denied that the oil packets had expired but admitted that the status of the company's manufacturing licence is now under a cloud. "Some of the oil packets which I have in stock mention the expiry date after six months (February 2024). However, we have learnt now that the company's license was cancelled some months ago. Yet, we were supplied the cooking oil from them which we have distributed in the Anandache Shidha kits as per the government norms," Meru told IANS. Despite repeated attempts by IANS, the company owners comprising the Bhutada brothers -- Ashok, Kirti and Bharat -- were not available for their comments in the matter. The Sena (UBT) carried out an agitation in Solapur and Mumbai on this issue and accused the government of cheating the gullible customers in the name of a festival discount kit. Monday morning the Tandulwadi Deputy Sarpanch Lingaraj C. Patil and others rushed to the ration shop and stopped the sale/distribution of the ration kits. Mali claimed that the Kirti Agrotech Ltd., has many complaints with the Centre, the FDA in Mumbai, the district Collector and even the state government, and its licence had been suspended many months ago. "Then, how this company is given the contract for the Anandache Shidha scheme, who is behind it and why the peoples' lives are put at risk by supplying such oil. Many people did not consume it and threw it in the gutters or the fields," said Mali. A Food & Drugs Authority official in Mumbai said that they would probe the complaints and verify the licence details of the company, and collect samples of the cooking oil, but declined to elaborate. Bhopal, Sep 18 : Madhya Pradesh Congress president Kamal Nath on Monday stated that the "Adivasis have the Congress' DNA" and he was sure that the community would support the party in the forthcoming Assembly elections. Kamal Nath stated that he trusted the Adivasi community the most and was sure that it would help the Congress party come back to power in Madhya Pradesh. "If you (Adivasis) give us your full support, then no one can stop the Congress from forming the government in Madhya Pradesh. I trust you the most," Kamal Nath said on Monday. He made this statement while paying tributes to the martyrs of the tribal community, Raja Shankar Shah and Kunwar Raghunath Shah, on the occasion of aBalidan Diwasa at Manas Bhawan in Bhopal. Raja Shankar Shah and Kunwar Raghunath Shah were martyred during the first War of Independence against the British in 1857. Addressing the gathering of tribals, most of them Congress workers from across Madhya Pradesh, Kamal Nath reminded them that the Adivasi tribes have always stood firmly with the Congress party. "It is because the Adivasis have the Congressa DNA that always fights for the truth. Adivasis support the truth and I believe that they will support the truth again and the Congress will form the government in Madhya Pradesh," Kamal Nath said. During his short speech, the Congress leader reiterated that the forthcoming "Assembly election was not being fought between two political parties and the candidates but was a fight between the truth and falsehood." Kamal Nath added, "The generation has changed in the last 20 years and today's youth is more ambitious. They want jobs. Adivasi youths are getting educated and they need jobs, and not false promises. Today's Adivasi youths are wise, they understand everything." Kamal Nath also pointed out that despite being original owners of the land Adivasis were deprived of their rights. "Adivasis do not raise their voice, which is wrong. You have to raise your voice strongly to get what is yours. Today's Adivasi youths have learnt that," he said. The Congress leader also hit out at the ruling BJP in the poll-bound state and pointed out incidents of atrocities against tribals in Madhya Pradesh. Citing the National Crime Records Bureauas (NCRB) report about atrocities against tribals in Madhya Pradesh, Kamal Nath hit out at Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan saying the latter was making big promises to the Adivasi community and other sections of society as the Assembly elections were drawing near. "Where were you for the last 18 years? Now, when the elections are just three months away and you (the BJP) are completely exposed, you are going around making promises to the people to seek their support. The people of Madhya Pradesh are wise and they have understood the BJP's tactics," he said. Notably, the Congress had won 30 out of total 47 Assembly seats reserved for the tribal community in Madhya Pradesh. New Delhi : PM Modi speaks in Lok Sabha during the special session of parliament. Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, Sep 18 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, while delivering his last speech in the old Parliament House, said that the echo of nation's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru's iconic 'Tryst with Destiny' speech will always resound and continue to inspire the generations of future people's representatives. Recounting the 75 years of Parliament, the Modi said that during this period, around 7,500 MPs including 600 women MPs have represented the country during this period. Nehru, during his address to the nation on August 15, 1947, had said that, "At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom." "Today is an occasion to recollect and reminisce the Parliamentary journey of 75 years of India. We might be shifting to the new building but this building will keep on inspiring the coming generation as it is a golden chapter of the journey of Indian democracy," Modi said. "India will always feel pride for the inclusion of the African Union in G20 during its presidency," he added, while referring to the recently concluded Delhi G20 summit. "Today the world sees India as it's friend and in the G20 summit, the country emerged as a 'Vishwa Mitra'," he said. He said that the inclusive atmosphere of the House has kept manifesting the aspirations of the people with full power. "In the 75 years, the biggest achievement has been the continuously growing trust of the common citizen in their Parliament." Meanwhile speaking during the discussion on 75 years of Parliament's journey in Lok Sabha just after Modi, leader of the Congress Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury attacked the Centre over the violence in Manipur and the loss of Army officers in Jammu and Kashmir. Recalling Congress' opposition to the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, he said that soldiers are still sacrificing their lives in Jammu and Kashmir, which proves that their opposition was correct. He even sarcastically commented why this session is being called a special session when eight bills have been listed for discussion. "We don't understand if this is a special session or normal," he said. "We cannot attend the zero hour, we cannot attend the question hour, we don't understand what kind of a session it is," he said. Chowdhury recalled how the Speaker used to ring a bell when former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru used to exceed his time limit during his speech. He pointed out Nehru's contribution to India at a time when the country was reeling under the aftereffects of the India-Pakistan partition, poverty and other challenges. "Architect of modern India, Nehru had said that parliamentary democracy demands many virtues which are ability, certain devotion to work, and also a large measure of the corporation of self-discipline and restraint," Chowdhury said. He also highlighted the formation of the Atomic Energy Commission of India and the Indian Space and Research Organisation (Isro) under the prime ministers from the Congress party. "I am glad that this 'sadan' (parliament) discussed and hailed Nehru's contribution. Former prime minister Nehru led India through tough times and heard the voices of Opposition," he said. Chowdhury also said that as we are shifting to the new building of the Parliament, the values and lessons from the old building must not be forgotten. Kolkata, Sep 18 : The Calcutta High Court on Monday asked the West Bengal government to file an affidavit detailing the compensation provided to the families of the 54 people killed in violence in the recently concluded panchayat polls. A division benchof Chief Justice T.S. Sivagnanam and Justice Hiranmay Bhattacharya asked the state government to file an affidavit by September 26 on this count. In the affidavit, the bench directed the state government to provide names and other details of the individuals killed in the rural civic body poll violence. The bench also sought details of the families who have been provided with a one- time compensation of Rs 2,00,000 and also those victimsa families where one member has been provided the appointment letter for home-guard as promised by the state government. It gave this direction to the state government while hearing a petition filed by state Congress president in West Bengal and veteran party Lok Sabha member Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury accusing the state government of delaying the process long after the announcement on this count was made. In his petition, Chowdhury alleged that although the compensation announcement was made on July 14 this year, till date only 17 families actually received the compensation. The veteran Congress leader also alleged that it is also not quite clear on whether the families of the genuine victims received the compensation or the jobs as promised by the state government. He also questioned the progress regarding payment of compensation for the injured victims in rural poll violence. New Delhi, Sep 18 : Minister for Electronics & Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday said the government was "fully committed" to support Taiwanese electronics giant Foxconn's ambitious plans to double its manufacturing capacity in India. Foxconn, the world's largest contract manufacturer of electronics, is looking at India to set up an alternative supply chain outside China. "Fully committed to support and facilitate," Vaishnaw said on X in response to Foxconn India representative V Lee's LinkedIn post to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 73rd birthday in which he said the company was "aiming for another doubling of employment, FDI (foreign direct investment), and business size in India" by this time next year. Foxconn is the main assembler of Apple iPhones and both companies are keen to move away from China and create alternative supply chains. The Communist giant stands alienated due to its military muscle-flexing in the South China Sea and dubious role in the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic that destroyed lives and livelihoods across the world. Foxconn already has an iPhone factory in Tamil Nadu, which employs 40,000 people and has signed an agreement to invest Rs 1,600 crore in a new electronics components unit in the state that will create 6,000 jobs. The company has also announced that it will be investing an additional Rs 3,300 crore in its manufacturing facility in Telangana. This will take the total investment of the company in the state to more than Rs 4,550 crore. The upcoming unit, being set up by Foxconn Interconnect Technology Ltd (FIT), will manufacture Apple accessories and is located at Kongara Kalan on the outskirts of Hyderabad. Besides, the company had also announced in August that it would invest Rs.5,000 crore ($600 million) in Karnataka for two projects in the state to make casing components for iPhones and for chip-making equipment. Foxconn chairman Young Liu had visited India recently to attend the SemiconIndia 2023 event hosted for global semiconductor companies that was inaugurated by Narendra Modi in Gandhinagar recently. Speaking at the event, the Foxconn chairman said, "I can feel the determination of the Indian government. I am very optimistic about where it's headed." He highlighted the Buffalo Spirit of the Taiwan semiconductor industry, which is the ability to work hard without complaining and said that the same spirit could be applied to India. Bengaluru, Sep 18 : Karnataka Police have launched probe into the suspicious deaths of four Nepalese nationals in Holeyarahalli near Doddaballapur town in Bengaluru Rural district. Doddabelavangala Police is investigating the cause of the deaths and is also recording the statements. The incident had come to light on Sunday. The deceased identified as Kale Sarera (60), Laxmi Sarera (50), Usha Sarera (40) and Phool Sarera (16) were found dead inside a shed at a poultry farm. The incident came to light when they did not answer the phone call by the poultry farm owner Mohan. The deceased had joined the farm eight days before and had gone to sleep after having dinner on Saturday night. The report from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and the post mortem is awaited to ascertain the exact cause of death. The door and windows of the shed were locked from inside and preliminary investigations suspected that the deaths occurred due to asphyxiation. The police said that till the reports suggest the exact cause of death, the possibility of foul play cannot be ruled out. Further investigation is underway. Kolkata, Sep 18 : A PIL was filed at the division bench of Calcutta High Court's Chief Justice T.S. Sivagnanam and Justice Hiranmay Bhattacharya on Monday challenging the decision of the state government to pay a donation of Rs 70,000 to each of the 40,000 odd community Durga Puja committees this year. The division bench has admitted the petition and a hearing in the matter is slated this week. This year Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced the state government's donation to the Puja Committees to Rs 70,000 from the amount of Rs 60,000 last year. This will be in addition to the subsidised electricity bill and advertisements from different state government departments. In fact, while announcing the decision for enhanced donation at a programme on August 22 this year, the chief minister herself expressed apprehension of the matter being dragged to the court. "There are some cockroaches who are always waiting for the slightest opportunity to move the court on any trivial issue," the chief minister said. Her apprehension came true on Monday with a PIL filed in the matter. Already the state government's donation has attracted scathing criticism from the economist circles in the state. They have claimed that the total largesse to the tune of Rs 350 crore, including donation, electricity subsidy and state government advertisements, is equivalent to 57 per cent of the total cost of Chandrayaan-3 expedition at Rs 615 crore. However, the chief minister has her own justifications on this count. "Durga Puja is not just a festival. It is also a huge business opportunity providing income to lakhs of people directly or indirectly associated with the festival. A huge market of around Rs 60,000 crore is being created over this festival every year," the chief minister said on Tuesday justifying the decision to enhance the dole. New Delhi, Sep 18 : Delhi Police's Crime Branch has arrested two drug peddlers and recovered 915 grams of heroin worth more than Rs 1 crore in the international market, an official said on Monday. The accused were identified as Tej Singh (27) and Subedar Singh (20), both residents of Nihal Vihar, Nangloi. The arrest followed specific intelligence received regarding Tej and his associate, who were expected to arrive near the red light area of Sector 23-24 in Rohini, Delhi, with a consignment of heroin for distribution. "Based on this information, a sting operation was set up at the specified location, leading to the successful apprehension of the accused individuals from Delhi. Police seized 915 grams of heroin with a market value exceeding Rs 1 crore in the international market from their possession," said Special Commissioner of Police (Crime), Ravindra Singh Yadav. During interrogation, both suspects revealed that they had a mutual friend involved in drug peddling. Additionally, their own brother, Kunwar, was engaged in the drug trade and utilised their taxi for trafficking drugs. For this service, he would earn approximately Rs 20,000 per round trip from Uttar Pradesh to Delhi," said the Special CP. In 2018, Kunwar Singh was arrested in an NDPS case by the Delhi Police Crime Branch. "Following his incarceration, the accused individuals began visiting him in jail and established connections with other visitors. Consequently, they became acquainted with drug peddlers from Uttar Pradesh and ventured into the lucrative drug trade," said the Special CP. "They have been involved in drug trafficking within Delhi for the past 10 months," the Special CP added. New Delhi, Sep 18 : Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar on Monday said that he was fascinated to hear Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech, mentioning about the history and glory of the Indian Parliament. "Fascinated to hear PM Narendra Modi ji talk about the glorious history and heritage of all that our Parliament has seen over 75 years. What a journey and what amazing milestones," he wrote on X (formerly Twitter). The 'Khiladi' actor said this in response to a post by the Prime Minister, addressing the Lok Sabha on the first day of the five day Special Session of Parliament. The Prime Minister while initiating the discussion in the Lower House on 'Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha, recalled several historic moments which have been witnessed by the Parliament during the said period. On the work front, Akshay was last seen in 'OMG 2', a comedy-drama film about sex education in Indian schools. It is a sequel to 'OMG a" Oh My God!', and also stars Pankaj Tripathi and Yami Gautam Dhar. He next has 'Mission Raniganj: The Great Bharat Rescue', also starring Parineeti Chopra. Akshay will be seen as Jaswant Singh Gill in the survival thriller directed by Tinu Suresh Desai. Akshay also has an untitled remake of 'Soorarai Pottru', 'Bade Miyan Chote Miyan', 'Hera Pheri 3', 'Sky Force', 'Shankara', and 'Singham Again' in the pipeline. Rumors continue to circulate in the information space about the deteriorating health of Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. This continued concern about his condition indicates that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin is dependent on Kadyrov to maintain stability in Chechnya. ADVERTISIMENT The Kremlin leader fears destabilization of the Kadyrov regime in the Chechen Republic. This is stated in the analysis of the Institute for War Studies. It is worth noting that the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine confirmed on September 15 that Kadyrov was in a coma. This information sparked rumors of Kadyrov's deteriorating health. Some "insider sources" even began to claim the death of the Chechen leader. In turn, Kadyrov published a video message on his Telegram channel on September 17, in which he allegedly dispelled rumors of his deteriorating health. ISW analysts are confident that the destabilization of Kadyrov's regime in Chechnya will be a serious blow to Putin's regime. This is partly because the establishment of the regime in Chechnya through a brutal and bloody war played an important role in Putin's early popularity in Russia. ADVERTISIMENT Also, Kadyrov and other Russian officials may be concerned that rumors about his health will affect the long-term stability and, by extension, Putin's control over Chechnya. As a reminder, the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry confirmed the information about the critical condition of Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. Earlier, our sources in the Chechen diaspora informed that Kadyrov had fallen into a coma. Earlier it was reported that the health of the head of the Chechen Republic Ramzan Kadyrov had deteriorated significantly. He was transported from Moscow to Grozny. As OBOZREVATEL reported, Kadyrov posted a new video on social media, but not everyone believed him. At the same time, unusual activity of cars with Chechen license plates was noticed in Moscow near the Central Clinical Hospital, where, according to Russian media, Kadyrov was hospitalized after his condition rapidly deteriorated. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Vardhan Puri on Ganesh Chaturthi: 'We are going to pray, eat, repeat'. Image Source: IANS News Mumbai, Sep 18 : The grandson of actor Amrish Puri, Vardhan Puri, who made his first screen appearance in the 2019 film 'Yeh Saali Aashiqui', revealed his unique and eco-friendly way of celebrating Bappa, during the Ganesh Chaturthi. Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated on the Shukla Paksha of Bhadrapada month. This year it will be observed on September 19. Vardhan is super excited to welcome Bappa at his home. Lord Ganesha is called the God of happiness and prosperity, and the actor is a dedicated devotee. Thus, the festival means a lot to him. He has been bringing Bappa home since 2001, and insists that it has been a alife changing experiencea for him and his family. Recalling his memories associated with the festival, Vardhan goes down the memory lane. The actor said: "Getting to spend time with the family and close friends during the festival is what I enjoy the most. I particularly used to, and still enjoy the whole process of making modaks and then serving them to guests. Itas lovely." Vardhan and family have been bringing Bappa home for 22 years, and they do it every year in a unique way. He opened up on their yearly ritual and it is indeed environment friendly as well. He reveals, "We have a marble Ganesh Ji in our home temple. During the festival, we bring him into our living room and celebrate with him. Once the one-and-a-half days are over, he is taken back to the temple and we immerse an eco-friendly Ganesh Ji in a large pot which eventually turns into a tree." The actor and his family have some amazing plans for this yearas Ganpati celebrations as well. What makes it more special for Vardhan is the presence of his niece. The actor concludes by revealing how they plan to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi this year. Vardhan added: "There is pure joy and excitement in the Puri household, as my beautiful niece Devika Puri Desai will be with us to enjoy the festivities. The theme is pink and our hearts are full. Weare going to pray and eat and then repeat." Meanwhile, on the work front, Vardhan was last seen in 'Aseq', a Horror thriller written and directed by Sarim Momin. Produced under the banner of Jio Studios, it features Sonnalli Seygall and Siddhanth Kapoor. The actor next has 'Nautanki', 'Bobby Aur Rishi Ki Love Story', and 'Gulab'. New Delhi, Sep 18 : The domestic markets relinquished their momentum as they anticipated a draft of policy rate decision due this week, said Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit Financial Services. While the Nifty 50 fell 59.05 points to end at 20,133, the Sensex lost 241.79 points to end at 67,596.84, snapping a 11-day winning streak. The investor's confidence was also impacted by the expectations of a demand resurgence in China, combined with crude supply cuts. With the Fed rate hike fears back on the cards, as reflected in the elevated US bond yields, the markets await clarification from major central banks, Nair said. Aditya Gaggar, Director of Progressive Shares, said that Indian equities started the week on a tepid note and throughout the day, the index remained range-bound. Among the sectors, PSU banking was the top performer by ending the day with gains of 3.39 per cent. The auto and energy sectors also performed well and gained over 0.70 per cent; on the flip side, realty, media and metal were the laggards, he said. Vaibhav Vidwani, Research Analyst at Bonanza Portfolio, said that Jupiter Life Line Hospitals shares made their market debut at a 32 per cent premium to the issue price. The stock's IPO price was Rs 735, and it closed at Rs 1,075. It was listed on the NSE and BSE at Rs 973 and Rs 960, respectively. Titan Company, M&M, BPCL, HDFC Life and Power Grid Corporation were among the top gainers on Nifty, while Hindalco Industries, Jio Financial, HDFC Bank, Bharti Airtel and Adani Ports were among the top losers. Bengaluru, Sep 18 : Karnataka BJP MP Lahar Singh Siroya on Monday wrote to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin urging him to realise that Karnataka's water requirements also include the water needs of lakhs of Tamil speakers who work and live in Karnataka. Bengaluru, Sep 18 (IANS) Karnataka's water requirements also include the water needs of lakhs of Tamil speakers who work and live in the state, Karnataka BJP MP Lahar Singh Siroya said on Monday. In a letter to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on the Cauvery dispute, the Rajya Sabha Member stated, "We live in a migrant society. People leaving their home states for employment is a trend that has picked up in the last couple of decades. Therefore, when we speak of water rights, we have to be more considerate keeping these migratory trends and reality in mind". Both the states understanding each other's needs and crisis like brothers share whatever Limited water is available equitably, seems to be the best solution for this distress situation, he stated. "Cauvery river water sharing dispute can be resolved by meeting of Karnataka and TN Chief Ministers instead of intervention by Centre or courts. "I write this letter in the context of the Cauvery water sharing dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu in a distress season. "I am fully aware that my understanding of matters related to water management or water Treaty is very limited. But I have a small commonsensical viewpoint," the letter read. Tamil Nadu should realise that Karnataka is not holding back water deliberately. It is just that its reservoirs are empty and there is drought in early 70 per cent of the taluks in the state. Also, there is a drinking water crisis emerging," his letter stated. This can happen only if chief ministers of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka meet and discuss the situation. More can be achieved by this meeting than by seeking the help of the central government or the courts. "We should at least break the old cycle of seeing the sharing of Cauvery River water as a regional conflict and a major dispute. This conflicting approach has been prevalent for decades. It is best to view it as a humanitarian crisis to be addressed maturely by two state governments. There should be no scope for politics and rhetoric in this matter. "I once again urge the two chief ministers to meet at the earliest and steer the discussion on this crisis created by mother nature in a different direction." it added. Allu Arjun poses with wife Sneha as he shares glimpse of Ganesh Chaturthi celebration. Image Source: IANS News Mumbai, Sep 18 : Known for his dynamic performances on the silver screen, versatile actor Allu Arjun has once again proved that his festive spirit knows no bounds as he, along with his family, welcomed Lord Ganesha into his home with open arms, sharing the joy of the festival with his ardent fans. The 'Pushpa' star took to Instagram to extend his warm wishes to his ardent fans on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. What caught the attention of his followers was the delightful picture he shared -- a glimpse of the beloved Ganesha idol adorning his home. The idol was a sight to behold, beautifully adorned with vibrant decorations and radiant lighting, reflecting the festive fervour that Allu Arjun brings to every celebration. Joining Allu Arjun in the festive spirit are his dearest family members who look equally excited to bring their beloved Ganpati bappa home. In the Instagram Stories, he is seen posing along with his wife Sneha Reddy in a traditional avatar, immersed in the festive spirit. The actor is wearing a white kurta pajama, while Sneha wore a yellow floral saree, and paired it with a magenta pink coloured sleeveless blouse. Itas not just Ganesh Chaturthi that witnesses Allu Arjun's infectious enthusiasm; the actor is known for celebrating various festivals with equal gusto. On the professional front, Allu Arjun is currently shooting for his highly-anticipated movie aPushpa: The Rulea, which is scheduled to release on August 15, 2024. The first instalment 'Pushpa: The Rise' depicted the rise of coolie Pushpa Raj (Allu Arjun) in the smuggling syndicate of red sandalwood, that grows only in the Seshachalam Hills of Chittoor in Andhra Pradesh. 'Pushpa 2: The Rule' is directed by Sukumar and also stars Rashmika Mandanna, and Fahadh Faasil. The film is produced by Mythri Movie Makers. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text London, Sep 18 : A former cop with the UK's West Midlands Police has claimed that some officers routinely used racial slurs against Sikhs and referred to Nobel peace prize winner Malala Yousafzai as 'tikka masala'. In a recent interview to Channel 4, Rebecca Kalam, who spent 10 years in the force's firearms unit before leaving in July this year, said fellow cops referred to those wearing a turban with racist remarks, and didn't bother to learn the difference between Sikhs and Muslims. Among the many explosive claims made by Kalam was the one where protection officers for Malala Yousafzai, who was airlifted to UK for treatment after she was shot by Taliban gunmen in Pakistan, referred to her as 'tikka masala'. "These shocking allegations of racism made by whistle-blower Ms Kalam against the West Midlands Police come as no surprise. The Sikh community across the West Midlands has been making such complaints and claims for decades, but all have fallen on deaf ears of the force," Jas Singh, advisor to the Sikh Federation, told news website BirminghamLive. "Despite changes in senior officers and meeting with an elected PCC (Police and Crime Commissioner), nothing seems to change other than things getting worse," Singh said. Singh said that the community has called on West Midlands Mayor Andy Street and PCC Simon Foster to conduct a full root and branch investigation, and review into the conduct and racist attitudes and practices in the force. Kalam, who was one of just seven female officers in the 235-strong unit of the UK's second largest police force in the country, also complained of toxic masculinity and misogyny, where objectification of women was common and male cops regularly used the C-word. "West Midlands Police need to take serious stock of what is happening within the unit. I can only speak from experience. I have lost my career. I am standing up, it is the right thing to do," the 40-year-old told Channel 4. The West Midlands Police has accepted 75 of Kalam's complaints, according to Channel 4. The new channel reported that the police force confirmed that a total of 16 officers and staff were given alow-level sanctions or advicea following a Professional Standards Department probe into the firearms unit. "Officers and staff in the Firearms Unit work tirelessly, often in the most risky situations, to protect the public and perform their duties with the utmost professionalism and they are disgusted at any conduct which falls below these standards of professional behaviour," West Midlands Police Forceas deputy chief constable Scott Green was quoted as saying in BriminghamLive. Green said that the force is working closely with the West Midlands Police Sikh Association and Sikh communities across the region to "understand diverse groups and communities to ensure we treat everyone with dignity and respect". Green said regular meetings with the community and religious leaders are held to discuss and address issues. aThere is no place for misogynistic, discriminatory or disrespectful behaviour in policing and we are working hard to set and reinforce the highest standards," she added. Bengaluru, Sep 18 : Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Monday said that the government will safeguard the interests of the people and will also approach the Supreme Court. "The state will put forth its arguments efficiently before the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA). We will convince them that there is no water due to the non-availability of rains. We will also approach the Supreme Court and plead before the court to evaluate the existing situation in the state," the Deputy Chief Minister told reporters. He said that he had also met the Union Jal Shakthi Minister Gajendra Singh Shekawat and explained to him the ground situation. "I also handed over a letter to the union minister which was written by the Chief Minister. We have urged him to mediate in the crisis," the Deputy Chief Minister said. He said that the special parliamentary session is going on and there is a plan of meeting the state MPs. "The Prime Minister has not given appointment to the all-party delegation. Tamil Nadu is misrepresenting the fact," he said. Meanwhile, the CWMA upholding the earlier order has directed Karnataka to release 5,000 cusecs of water from reservoirs for the 15 days effective from September 13. The state government is yet to give an official statement in this regard. Kochi, Sept 18 : The Kerala High Court has ruled that merely posting a manipulated photo on social media sites like Facebook (now known as Meta) will not amount to an offence under Section 120(o) of the Kerala Police Act. A bench of Justice P.V. Kunhikrishnan said: "If this Court started to hold that all these Facebook posts amount to an offence under Section 120(o) of the Kerala Police Act, 2011, almost all posts made on Facebook are to be declared as an offence under Section 120(o) of the Kerala Police Act." However, the court opined that the legislature should examine the issue since defamatory posts continue to do the rounds on social media. "The defamatory Facebook posts continue to do the rounds on Facebook and other social media platforms. There is no proper punishment for such defamatory statements and posters on Facebook. The legislature must look into this aspect seriously, especially against the backdrop of this new era of technology and social media mania in existence in our society," it said, while considering an appeal filed by a Syrian Jacobite Church priest challenging the decision of the Magistrate Court granting permission to register a case against him under section 120 (o) of the Kerala Police Act. Incidentally, the complainant, who is a priest from the Syrian Orthodox church, sat on a hunger strike along with 35 priests from his church on August 8, 2017, holding a banner. The allegation was that a photograph showing the hunger strike was edited by the appellant and the wording on the banner was changed and he then put up the same on Facebook thereby, defaming the de facto complainant and the other Orthodox Church priests. The trial court permitted registration of a case under Section 120(o) of the Kerala Police Act, prompting the appellant to approach the High Court. But the High Court, after close perusal of the facts of the case as well as the provisions of the Kerala Police Act, it found that the post in question, which was just a manipulated photo and would not attract the offence alleged. Therefore, the High Court allowed the appeal and quashed all the proceedings pending before the Magistrate Court. --IANS sg/vd New York, Sep 18 : United Auto Workers (UAW) union and the Big 3 auto companies were set to resume talks on Sunday, being seemingly no closer to reaching deals than they were when autoworkers went on strike on Friday. The union has rejected an offer from US automaker Stellantis to increase workers' wages by 21 per cent, Shawn Fain, head of UAW said on Sunday. "I don't really want to say we're closer," he said. "It's a shame that the companies didn't take our advice and get down to business from the beginning." Rather than focusing on one company as it has in the past, UAW is striking at one plant for each automaker to start a strategy that preserves union cash while leaving plenty of room to expand. Fain repeatedly cited the 40-per cent pay raises for the Big 3 CEOs over the past four years, which are in stark contrast with the 6-per cent raises autoworkers have received since their last contract in 2019. CEO pay has ballooned for decades, while wages for ordinary workers have lagged. "It's definitely a no-go. We've made that very clear to the companies," Fain said in an interview. As the days of the strike increase, so will its impact. In a statement on Saturday, Ford says 600 workers were laid off from their Michigan assembly plant because of a halt in production when their paint department was called to strike. Facing the laid-off, Fain responded that these workers won't go without income and said this is only a tactic being used for the union to settle for less. He criticised the company's behavior, saying it sees the workers as bargaining chips. The union had talks with Ford on Saturday. It was going back to the bargaining table on Sunday with General Motors and plans to talk with Stellantis on Monday, a spokesman said. Shares of Australia's BlueScope Steel Ltd slipped to an over three-month low as the ongoing UAW strike in the United States weighs on the Australian steel-maker's North American business. BlueScope Steel shares fell as much as 3.8 per cent, their lowest since June 2, and are on track to log a sixth straight session of losses. US President Joe Biden said he supports the union. But his climate agenda could conflict with the walkout and the labor demands as it may well require less labor. The union had reportedly been negotiating with all three automakers simultaneously, in a break from previous rounds of contract talks, for significantly higher pay and new benefits. Particularly, the UAW called for protections for workers with traditional auto jobs as companies increasingly invest in EV production. Analysts warned that the strike, though limited for the time being, may develop into a prolonged one and a menace to the US economy, as it could cut production by thousands, push up vehicle prices and aggravate supply chain disruptions. If all 150,000 workers for the Big 3 auto companies strike for at least 10 days, it would cost the US economy roughly 5 billion dollars, a local economy group estimated. Nagpur, Sep 18 : Thousands of OBCs took out protest marches in Nagpur, Gondiya, and Hingoli on Monday protesting at the Maharashtra government's plans to issue OBC Caste certificates to the Maratha community. The OBCs carried banners, flags and posters and raised slogans demanding that the government "should beware and not succumb to Maratha pressures" by indiscriminately issuing OBC Caste certificates to the community. Several leaders said that they will not sit quiet if the state government carves Maratha quotas from the OBC share and cautioned the administration against any such steps as it would be injustice to the OBC cause. Several parties including the ruling ally Bharatiya Janata Party, Congress, and others have supported the OBCs demands that their quotas should not be disturbed. Leader of Opposition in Assembly Vijay Wadettiwar, of the Congress, questioned the government why it did not take the OBCs demands on par with the Marathas to ensure equitable quotas and justice for all communities. "Why no government representatives, ministers or CM Eknath Shinde is coming to talk to the OBCs who are protesting since the past 10 days," he asked. The Congress leader also urged the government to convene an all-party meeting - on the lines of a similar meet held for the Marathas a" to discuss the reservations of the OBCs to the state governmentas moves, and also discuss quotas for the Dhangars. Wadettiwar called upon the government to display the same level of commitment to the OBCs as it had done for the Marathas last week when their leader Manoj Jarange-Patil had sat on an indefinite hunger strike. Besides Nagpur, similar processions were taken out in Hingoli and Gondiya districts and later delegations of the OBC leaders submitted a memorandum of their demands to the respective Collectors. Athens, Sep 18 : Five members of a Greek humanitarian mission to Libya were killed and 10 others injured in a car accident, Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias said here on Monday, expressing condolences and declaring a three-day period of mourning in the Armed Forces. The incident occurred on Sunday shortly after the 19-member team arrived in Benghazi. A bus transporting them from Benghazi to the city of Derna to assist in the wake of devastating floods collided with another vehicle, defence ministry officials said. Three of the dead were officers of the Hellenic Armed Forces and two were translators from the Greek foreign ministry, Dendias said. Their bodies, as well as the rest of the members of the mission, were repatriated on Monday on two Hellenic Air Force transport planes, Greek national broadcaster ERT reported. "The entire nation is mourning. My thoughts are with the victims' families and the 10 injured. The state will stand by their side," said Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Romania has decided to extend the ban on imports of Ukrainian grain and other agricultural products for 30 days. However, the decision has not yet been finalized, and the country's authorities are waiting for proposals from the Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers. ADVERTISIMENT Thus, Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu will ask the ministers of agriculture and economy to approve the decree on the embargo extension. According to RFI, Ciolacu expects Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal to propose licensing of grain exports. The Romanian Prime Minister also noted that after the European Commission's decision not to extend the ban on Ukrainian agricultural products,"not a single kilogram of wheat was imported to Romania from Ukraine." "If there are any requests for exports to Romania, I will definitely ask the Minister of Agrarian Policy and the Minister of Economy to issue a general order that the restriction will be extended for 30 days until everything is clarified. I repeat: there are no requests, and I want to assure farmers that it will not be like it was a year ago," Cholaku assured. ADVERTISIMENT As reported by OBOZREVATEL, the European Commission has decided not to extend the ban on the export of Ukrainian grain to the EU, which expired on September 15. It is to be replaced by restrictions that will help to control the volume of products exported from Ukraine. It is up to Ukraine to develop such measures for itself. However, Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia will continue to block imports of Ukrainian grain. Ukraine will challenge this decision in the WTO, as it violates international trade rules and even contradicts the position of the European Commission. Poland may block Ukraine's accession to the EU if the countries do not resolve the issue of grain exports. Ukraine's trade representative said that the Polish government's actions are wrong, unlawful and harmful to Polish, Ukrainian and all farmers in the European Union (EU). ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information on our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! New Delhi, Sep 18 : A couple was captured in a heated argument with the Indigo airline crew at Mumbai airport due to their late arrival for boarding, as per a recent video posted on X (formerly Twitter). According to the footage, the couple was scheduled to take a flight to Ahmedabad but failed to make it to the boarding gate on time. This viral 70-second clip, shared by X handle named "@gharkekalesh" on September 16 and which had over 95K views, captures the heated exchange. The video, recorded by an onlooker, commences with the man vocally confronting the airline personnel, with the caption reading: "Kalesh between an IndiGo employee and a couple who are late for boarding at Mumbai airport." In the video, the man, a woman, and a younger passenger, likely their child, are seen holding their cabin bags near boarding gate number 50, which indicates a flight to Ahmedabad. The ground staff member, who is the target of their anger, appears to be attempting to engage in a conversation while also conversing on the phone. The precise details of the incident remain unclear based on the video clip. The footage was filmed by an individual seated in the vicinity of the boarding gates, and it is unknown whether the couple eventually managed to board the flight or if they were indeed offloaded. The airline refused to comment on the issue. --IANS ssh/vd New Delhi, Sep 18 : Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia on Monday inaugurated 'Udaan Bhawan,' an integrated office complex at Delhi's Safdarjung Airport and pilot e-wallet facility. The Udaan Bhawan will house, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) and Airports Authority of India (AAI). The officials said that Udaan Bhawan has been constructed at Safdarjung Airport, New Delhi which will facilitate better coordination between various regulatory authorities under Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA). The occasion also witnessed the launch of the pilot e-wallet facility. The e-wallet will be particularly useful for processing of fees for various regulatory approvals in the Bharatkosh portal and act as a prepaid wallet that would enable registered users to add funds in advance. Initially, only NEFT/RTGS mode will be allowed for adding funds. The users would also be able to generate receipts and challan instantly. "Today is a landmark day as we are not just inaugurating Udaan Bhawan, but also Bharatkosh portal that would act as a prepaid wallet. This portal would allow faster, quicker, more secure payment system through our civil aviation ministry," said Scindia. "A healthy working environment brings with it a lot of positivity, increases productivity, and increases comfort. It is the atmosphere of the workspace that truly translates ideations of thoughts into concrete action. The government has become much more proactive, a problem solver, a change agent that is transforming an aspirational India for being the world's growth agent," said the minister. New Delhi, Sep 18 : The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has lodged an FIR of loan fraud of Rs 3,847.58 crore against Unity Infraprojects Ltd (UIL), a Mumbai-based firm, its CMD Kishore Avarsekar, and three directors of the company. The CBI had received a complaint in this regard from the State Bank of India (SBI), which said UIL had been a client of SBI since 2004. During this period, the company reportedly utilised a range of financial services, both fund-based and non-fund-based, amounting to a total of Rs 703.63 crore. The company had access to a combined credit limit of around Rs 3,800 crore from a total of 23 different lenders. It has been alleged in the FIR that UIL indulged in fictitious transactions to cheat the bank. The complaint stated, "The company in question engaged in deceptive practices, including fictitious transactions through fraudulent LC trade schemes, improper adjustments through data manipulation, fund diversion via non-consortium accounts, fund diversion involving related parties, and unexplained excessive payments. As a result, it illicitly siphoned funds from SBI and other consortium banks, defrauding these financial institutions." After verifing the facts, the CBI has now lodged an FIR under Sections 120 B and 420 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), and Sections 13 (2), 13 (1) (d) of the Prevention of Corruption Act. New Delhi, Sep 18 : The notorious North Korean hacking group Lazarus has been held responsible for stealing approximately $240 million worth of crypto assets in the last 104 days, a new report has revealed. According to the blockchain surveillance firm Elliptic, the hacking group stole crypto assets from Atomic Wallet ($100 million) CoinsPaid ($37.3 million), Alphapo ($60 million), and Stake.com ($41 million). The hacking group has been linked to five major crypto hacks over the past three months. The latest, according to blockchain data, was the global cryptocurrency exchange CoinEx, which was hacked last week for an estimated amount of $53 million. However, CoinEx informed customers in a response update that it is still trying to calculate how much money was stolen, but current findings revealed that around $70 million was stolen from the platform -- higher than the reported amount. "Elliptic analysis confirms that some of the funds stolen from CoinEx were sent to an address which was used by the Lazarus group to launder funds stolen from the Drake-backed crypto casio Stake.com, albeit on a different blockchain," the researchers said. Moreover, the report said that the findings corroborate those of on-chain sleuth ZachXBT, who on X (formerly Twitter) said that the CoinEx hacker had "accidentally connected their address" to the Stake hack. The hacker first transferred the stolen funds to Ethereum via a bridge that was used by Lazarus in the past. Then, the hacker moved the funds to a wallet address that is known to be under their control. The majority of the funds were taken from the Tron and Polygon blockchains. According to the report, Lazarus hackers also used addresses seen in the Stake hack as well as an address seen in the $100 million Atomic wallet hack. "In light of this blockchain activity, and in the absence of information suggesting the CoinEx hack was conducted by any other threat group, Elliptic agrees that Lazarus Group should be suspected for the theft of funds from CoinEx," the researchers stated. Other hacks in which Lazarus has been recently implicated include the crypto payments platform CoinsPaid in late June, and the crypto payment provider Alphapo in July. Lazarus has been recently implicated in several other hacks involving crypto payment platforms, including CoinsPaid in June and Alphapo in July. Mumbai, Sep 18 : The Bombay High Court has warned a divorced woman that she may lose her 50 percent share in a posh Pune flat if she refused her ex-husband access to their minor daughter. The high court allowed the woman, who has got a job in the US to take along her minor daughter, but if she failed to grant her access to the girlas father in India, then the woman stood to forfeit her 50 percent share in his flat. This was a key point in a settlement arrived between the erstwhile couple who were given a mutual consent divorce by a Pune court in 2020, which granted the girlas custody to the mother and also allowed her regular access to the father. However, in the past over three years, the former husband-wife filed multiple petitions against each other including civil and criminal and also a contempt plea by the ex-husband against the ex-wife for violating the Pune courtas child access orders. When the matter reached a division bench of Justice B. P. Colabawalla and Justice M. M. Sathaye, it finally culminated in a settlement last week between the feuding divorcees. The court has allowed that the girlas father can get virtual access to the daughter for 15 minutes each time and a month-long physical visit to Pune from the daughter during her school vacations. When the fatheras lawyer Amol Jagtap raised apprehensions over the enforceability of the consent terms since now the woman would be living abroad, beyond the jurisdiction of the court, the judges heard the womanas lawyer Abhijit Sarwate. Agreeing with Jagtapas concerns, the court said that in such an eventuality the girlas father would be free to file contempt proceedings against the mother. Moreover, if the woman was filed to be in civil contempt for flouting the child access orders, she may have to let go her 50 percent share in the Pune flats to the ex-husband, and upon failure to do so, the court could appoint a Commissioner to ensure the transfer of her share to the girlas father. Thereafter, as part of the settlement, the ex-couple withdrew their respective contempt petitions against each other and resolved their long-pending legal disputes. New Delhi, Sep 18 : The US delegation, led by Under Secretary (Research and Engineering), Department of Defence Heidi Shyu, met a team of Innovations for Defence Excellence-Defence Innovation Organisation (iDEX-DIO) under Ministry of Defence (MoD) in IIT Delhi on Monday. MoD said that the Joint Secretary (Defence Industries Production) and Additional CEO of DIO Anurag Bajpai presented an overview on iDEX to the US delegation, explaining how the initiative is revolutionising the defence innovation ecosystem in India. It said that he highlighted how iDEX is fostering innovation, in critical domains like Artificial Intelligence (AI), unmanned solutions, domain awareness, communications, space, cybersecurity etc, the ministry of defence informed. "He brought out how technologies developed by iDEX winners are acting as force multipliers for the Services and the innovators are beginning to make their mark globally with their dual-use solutions," MoD said. The Joint Secretary brought out that the India-U.S. Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X) initiative will further deepen the strategic technology partnership and defence industrial cooperation between the two sides. He also appreciated the momentum in INDUS-X activities and informed that iDEX and Defence Innovation Unit (DIU) teams have finalised two challenges to kick start joint challenges, to be launched soon. MoD said that a showcase of select iDEX winners and defence innovation start-ups with cutting-edge dual-use technologies was organised. It said that the deep-tech innovations including on information security and cyber security, AI/Machine Learning-based imaging, maritime technologies, wireless communication, space technologies and advanced sensors were showcased. Heidi Shyu was highly appreciative of the start-up showcase, and the way the iDEX scheme and stakeholders have revolutionised the defence innovation ecosystem in India. MoD said that she noted the rapid developments under the collaboration agenda of INDUS-X and suggested that procurement of advanced technologies be given due consideration under INDUS-X. iDEX, in partnership with US Department of Defence, conducted the India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X) event in Washington DC on June 20-21, 2023. MoD said that the initiative will expand the strategic technology partnership and defence industrial cooperation between the start-up ecosystems, businesses and academic institutions. Domestic help sentenced to life for killing elderly Indian in Singapore. Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, Sep 18 : A 19-year-old service boy was thrashed and stabbed by the cafe owner over a petty issue in south Delhi's Satya Niketan area on Monday, police said. According to the police, on Monday, a call was received at the South Campus police station, via the police control room, reporting a stabbing incident. The caller, Sandeep, reported that a passerby had taken his mobile phone and called 'emergency number'- 112 to report the incident. "During a local inquiry, it was discovered that a dispute had occurred between two young men in a cafe in Satya Niketan," a senior police official said. Subsequently, the police received information regarding a medico-legal case (MLC) from SJ Hospital, and they recorded a statement from the injured, Ashish, a resident of Sagarpur. "Ashish stated that he worked as a service boy at 'Mitro Cafe' in Satya Niketan, and another boy named Guddu also worked there. On Monday, a disagreement arose between Ashish and Guddu over serving customers, which escalated when Guddu began misbehaving and verbally abusing Ashish," said the official. "Cafe owner, Kunal, sided with Guddu and physically assaulted Ashish, stabbing him in the right thigh with a knife," said the official. "Consequently, a case has been registered under sections 323 (voluntarily causing hurt), 324 (voluntarily causing hurt by dangerous weapons or means), 341 (wrongful restraint) and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code, and the accused has been apprehended," the official added. --IANS ssh/vd New Delhi, Sep 18 : Congress MP Manish Tewari while delivering his last speech in the old Parliament House, on Monday suggested that a law mandating the Parliament and assemblies of larger states to function for at least 100 days per year, while assemblies of smaller states function for at least 55 days, should be framed. Participating in the discussion on the 75 years of Parliament on the first day of the special session of Parliament, which was also the last day of functioning in the old Parliament building, Tewari also suggested a relook at the anti-defection law as it has proved irrelevant in the past few years, while referring to several defections of Congress MPs to BJP. Demanding a discussion on the Chinese intrusion into India at the LAC, he warned that such important issues were being overlooked for debate. The Congress MP also listed the several achievements by Parliament in past 75 years including abolishing untouchability, reservation for SC/ST, Right to Education and Right to Work among others. Lauding Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhara Rao, BRS MP Nama Nageshwara Rao said while participating in the discussion, that with mere two MPs, he had demanded the creation of Telangana and in 2014 the AP Reorganisation Bill was passed. "While PM Modi said that the creation of Telangana has left a bitter taste, Telangana is number one in India in terms of water supply, electrification, medical facilities," Nama Nageshwara Rao added. His speech was interrupted by slogans raised by other party MPs from Telangana. Shiromani Akali Dal MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal spoke about the achievements of the Punjabi Sikh community. She lamented the 1984 Sikh riots and sought a unanimous condemnation of it in Parliament. Samajwadi Party member S.T Hasan during the discussion on 75 years of Parliamentary democracy, lamented the incarceration of fellow party colleague and former MP Azam Khan. He claimed that his party had approached the Prime Minister and the Lok Sabha Speaker, seeking their help in Khan's release, but to no avail. Hasan also condemned the growing intolerance against Muslims citing the objections to Hijab, Azaan, Namaz and Triple Talaq. He said that he fears the marginalisation of the Muslim community. Targetting the previous Congress governments, BSP MP Girish Chandra claimed that Jawaharlal Nehru had conspired to defeat Babasaheb Ambedkar in the first general election by not supporting him. Listing Ambedkar's achievements, he reminded how Ambedkar was forced to resign as the law minister due to the many hurdles erected by the Congress. Trinamool Congress MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay said that, "before moving from old building to new, we need to understand the true meaning of our country India that is Bharat. We are happy and comfortable with both names. We want to reiterate this." "In a Parliamentary democracy, the House should belong to the Opposition. Bills are being passed without debate or discussion. It is not a good precedent. Both sides are to be more objective in their approach and outlook," he added. Chandigarh, Sep 18 : The National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA) conference-cum-workshop will host the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on September 21, which will be inaugurated by the Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan told the media here that on the initiative of the Chief Minister a two-day workshop will be held for all MLAs on September 21 and 22, in which the lawmakers will be imparted information regarding the new online system and the project. Sandhwan said in this conference-cum-workshop information about the entire system will be given in different sessions like online notice section and digital, online question processing and digitisation module, online house committee module, reporters module, etc. He said from the next session the entire proceedings of the Vidhan Sabha will be hi-tech and paperless. He said now onwards all MLAs will participate in the legislative Assembly sessions by adopting a paperless system through tablets as part of an environment-friendly initiative. He said exchange of information regarding the Vidhan Sabha will be done through the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA). People's participation will also increase through the National e-Vidhan app and live webcasting of proceedings. Sandhwan said the objective of the NeVA is to bring all legislatures of the country on one platform, thereby creating a massive data depository without the complexity of multiple applications. He said the state government has completed the process of installing tablets on the tables of all MLAs, with which the proceedings of the House will now be online. New Delhi, Sep 18 : Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar will inaugurate a series of initiatives on Tuesday focusing on agri-credit and crop insurance for the benefit of farmers. The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmersa Welfare is launching these initiatives for revolutionising agriculture in India with an aim to amplify financial inclusion, streamline data utilisation, harness technology and enhance the livelihoods of the agricultural community, an official statement said. The highlights of the launch include a Kisan Rin Portal (KRP)developed in collaboration with multiple government departments to provide access to credit services under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme. This digital platform offers a comprehensive view of farmers' data, loan disbursement specifics, interest subvention claims, and scheme utilisation progress, fostering seamless integration with banks for more focused and efficient agriculture credit. A door-to-door campaign will be kicked off under the 'Ghar Ghar KCC Abhiyaan' to extend the benefits of the scheme to every farmer across India. This campaign aims to achieve universal financial inclusion, ensuring that every farmer has unhindered access to credit facilities. The WINDS Manual, set to be unveiled during the event, extends the impact of the Weather Information Network Data Systems (WINDS) initiative. WINDS, an instrumental innovation, leverages advanced weather data analytics to provide the stakeholders with actionable insights on weather to make well-informed choices. It also caters to parametric crop insurance scheme of DA&FW in addition to non-scheme parametric insurance programmes for crop risk mitigation and disaster risk reduction and mitigation being run by the Insurance industry. The event embodies the Government of Indiaas commitment to innovation and efficient service delivery for agriculture, aiming to sustain and double farmers' income, the statement added. On September 1, China's Ministry of Commerce introduced export controls on high-performance unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that can be used for military purposes. This has allegedly led to a shortage of drones and their components in Russia. ADVERTISIMENT The ban was recognized by Russian propaganda resources, which also pointed out that sellers of Chinese drones in Russia also complain about neighboring Kazakhstan, which has recently tightened import procedures. This is stated in the article of the English and Russian-language newspaper The Moscow Times. It is noted that the aggressor country has stopped supplying drones weighing 4 kg or more or with a maximum takeoff weight of 7 kg with a flight duration of more than 30 minutes. In addition, UAVs capable of "carrying a load with a drop function" or "with the ability to fix such a device" were banned. Beijing has also restricted the supply of components to Moscow, including multi- and hyperspectral cameras for drones, powerful onboard radio equipment, infrared cameras, thermal imagers, laser rangefinding and positioning modules. ADVERTISIMENT According to the requirements, in order to transport this equipment to Russia, Chinese suppliers must obtain a license from the Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China and a permit from the customs service, providing information about the final recipient. At the same time, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce will check each recipient for its presence on sanctions lists "related to military activities or actions undesirable to China," and will demand financial reports and corporate documents. "Chinese exporters will face administrative liability for violating the license requirements, and criminal liability in case of intentional violation," the statement said. ADVERTISIMENT Russian market participants complained that the Chinese government's ban on the supply of drones for military purposes has actually "led to the cessation of supplies to Russia even of products that are not subject to the restrictions imposed." "Ten major retailers of agricultural, monitoring and industrial drones, including Paragraf, Spb-geon, RusGeoCom, IQmac, are running out of stocks. Some models are left in limited quantities, and prices have doubled. For example, DJI and XAG agrodrones, which are popular in Russia, have doubled in price," the publication quoted the propagandists as saying. They also noted that until recently, Russians managed to import certain models of drones through Kazakhstan, but now suppliers from the neighboring country have announced that they have stopped shipments due to "tighter control over dual-use goods." ADVERTISIMENT RuDrones CEO Dmitry Datsikov said that before the ban came into effect, retailers "exported everything they could in bulk." Now, Russia's stocks of drones and components are supposedly "enough for one or two quarters." As reported by OBOZREVATEL, a recent investigation by OSINT analysts at Molfar Agency shows that the Chinese company iFlight, which owns the manufacturer of DJI drones, continues to supply drones to Russia. The manufacturer's statement to the contrary is true only for the Ukrainian market of imported drones, as China continues to send them to Russia under the guise of various schemes. Only verified information is available on our Obozrevatel Telegram channel and Viber. Don't fall for fakes! Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 18 : Minister of State for External Affairs V.Muraleedharan on Monday informed that talks with the Kuwaiti authorities have commenced to ensure the release of 30 Indian nurses which includes 19 from Kerala, presently in detention there. Muraleedharan said talks at the highest level between India and Kuwait have commenced and there are technical issues over the license of the clinic where these nurses were working. "Among the nurses who have young kids who are being breast fed, we have already made arrangements for them to be fed. Likewise, the Indian Embassy officials are in talks with the Kuwait authorities to see that they are released," said Muraleedharan. The detention took place following an inspection by the Kuwait Manpower Committee. UP boy stages his own kidnapping to avoid school. Image Source: IANS News Meerut : , Sep 18 (IANS) About 20 youths, who were adamant on taking out a yatra to Mahadev Temple without permission to celebrate the birth anniversary of Mihir Bhoj in the Meerut district, were arrested and sent to Meerut by car, officials said. Minister of State Dinesh Khatik and SP MLA Atul Pradhan garlanded the Raja Mihir Bhoj statue. There was a scuffle between the youth of the Gurjar community and the police due to which permission was denied. The police administration had not given permission to take out the yatra in view of the dispute between the Gurjar and Rajput communities regarding taking out the yatra on the birth anniversary of Emperor Mihir Bhoj in the city. A crowd had gathered at the Bada Mahadev Shiv Temple to take out the yatra. SP, Rural, Kamlesh Bahadur and other senior police officials were present at the temple with a heavy police force. They detained about 20 youth when they insisted on talking out the yatra. Amidst the high voltage drama, SP MLA Pradhan, Mukhiya Gurjar, and hundreds of youths reached the Mahadev temple. When SP, Rural, tried to stop them with the police force, a scuffle broke out and slogans were also raised. Eventually, some leaders of the community were allowed to garland the statue of Mihir Bhoj. Minister of State Khatik also reached the temple and paid floral tributes to Mihir Bhoj. Shimla, Sep 18 : On the first day of the monsoon session of the Himachal Pradesh Assembly on Monday, the main Opposition BJP staged a walkout after their demand for allowing a debate on the recent devastation caused by the rains under Rule 67 was rejected by the Speaker. The BJP legislators were agitated after Speaker Kuldeep Pathania rejected the adjournment motion moved by the Opposition under Rule 67 with a submission that a notice for the debate on the devastation caused by the rains had already been received from the government under Rule 102. "Since the issue is similar, I am clubbing both the motions so that debate can be held," said Pathania. As Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu started presenting the resolution on the damages caused by rains, BJP legislators, led by leader of opposition Jai Ram Thakur, walked out from the House. As per the resolution, the Centre should declare the calamity as a "national disaster". The Chief Minister said the state "is hopeful the Centre would declare it a national calamity on the pattern of Kedarnath, Joshimath and Bhuj". Slamming the Opposition for doing politics over natural calamity and crisis, Sukhu said people had donated liberally towards the disaster relief fund and the BJP MLAs should also donate voluntarily. New Delhi, Sep 18 : The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has signed an agreement for the development of a Multi Modal Logistics Park in Bengaluru under the the public-private partnership (PPP) model with an investment of Rs 1,770 crore, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways announced on Monday. The Multi Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) is being developed in an area spanning 400 acres at Muddelinganahalli, 58 km from Bengaluru airport and 48 km from Bengaluru city railway station. The NHAI is participating in the project through its 100 per cent subsidiary National Highways Logistics Management Ltd. The agreement has been signed between Government SPV, Bengaluru Multi Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) Pvt. Ltd. & Concessionaire SPV M/s. PATH Bengaluru Logistics Park Pvt. Ltd. The project is poised to become the first and largest MMLP ever implemented in the country under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, according to an official statement. The site is strategically located adjacent to the upcoming KIADB industrial area on the east side, abutting NH 648, Dabbaspet to Hosur as well as Satellite Town Ring Road on the north side and Bengaluru-Hubli-Mumbai rail line on the south. The MMLP will be developed in three phases. The first phase is expected to be completed in two years. MMLP will cater to about 30 million metric tonnes (MMT) cargo by the end of the concession period of 45 years and is expected to give a huge boost to the industrial zones in Bengaluru and Tumkur. A Government SPV has been incorporated between National Highways Logistics Management Ltd., Rail Vikas Nigam Limited and Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board. The development of MMLP is a key initiative of the Government of India to improve the country's freight logistics sector by enabling efficient inter-modal freight movement to lower overall freight costs and time, provide efficient warehousing, improve tracking and traceability of consignments thereby enhancing the efficiency of the Indian logistics sector, the official statement added. San Francisco, Sep 18 : Microsoft on Monday admitted that backups of two former employees' workstation profiles and internal Microsoft Teams messages of these two employees with their colleagues were exposed accidentally, adding that no customer data was exposed. The admission came as cloud security startup Wiz discovered a GitHub repository belonging to Microsoft's AI research division as part of its work into the accidental exposure of cloud-hosted data. After identifying the exposure, Wiz reported the issue to the Microsoft Security Response Center (MSRC). The tech giant investigated and remediated the incident involving a Microsoft employee who shared a URL for a blob store in a public GitHub repository while contributing to open-source AI learning models. "This URL included an overly-permissive Shared Access Signature (SAS) token for an internal storage account. Security researchers at Wiz were then able to use this token to access information in the storage account," said Microsoft. "No customer data was exposed, and no other internal services were put at risk because of this issue," the tech giant said in a blog post. SAS tokens provide a mechanism to restrict access and allow certain clients to connect to specified Azure Storage resources. In this case, a researcher at Microsoft inadvertently included this SAS token in a blob store URL while contributing to open-source AI learning models and provided the URL in a public GitHub repository. "There was no security issue or vulnerability within Azure Storage or the SAS token feature. Like other secrets, SAS tokens should be created and managed properly. Additionally, we are making ongoing improvements to further harden the SAS token feature and continue to evaluate the service to bolster our secure-by-default posture," Microsoft noted. The information that was exposed consisted of information unique to two former Microsoft employees and these former employees' workstations. "Customers do not need to take any additional action to remain secure," said the company. Patna, Sep 18 : In the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has called for another meeting of workers of his Janata Dal-United at his official residence on September 23 and 24. Sources have said that Nitish Kumar will meet the incharge of different wings of the party on September 23 and will chair the meeting of in charges of all assembly constituencies on the next day. Recently, Nitish Kumar called for two meetings in the past and discussed the strategy with MPs, MLAs, MLCs, spokespersons, district presidents, block presidents and panchayat level workers. The back to back meetings of Nitish Kumar also some speculation, especially after his photo with PM Narendra Modi in G20 dinner party went viral on different platforms. In the last two meetings, JD-U national President Lalan Singh was not present and it will be interesting to see whether he would be present or not this time. Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav also did the two days meeting of his RJD's workers recently in the absence of party supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav. New Delhi, Sep 18 : Panos Panay, Windows' chief product officer who also led the company's Surface devices, on Monday announced he is leaving Microsoft after "19 incredible years". Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft's corporate vice president of modern life, search, and devices, will take his place as the head of the Windows and Surface businesses. Panay joined Microsoft in 2004 as a group programme manager and became the company's chief product officer in 2018, where he led the development of Windows 11. In 2021, Panay was promoted to executive vice president as part of the top leadership team under Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella. "I've decided to turn the page and write the next chapter. I'm forever grateful for my time at Microsoft and the amazing people I had the honor to make products with," Panay said in a post on X. "Thank you, Panos, for your impact on our products, culture, company, and industry over the past two decades," Nadella said in a statement. "I'm grateful for your leadership, support, and all you've done for Microsoft and our customers and partners," he added. In an internal email, Rajesh Jha, Microsoft's vice president of experience and devices, told employees that Panay has decided to leave the company. More recently, as the leader of Windows, the team under Panay brought "amazing services and experiences to hundreds of millions with Windows 11 on innovative devices including those from our OEM partners". "Moving forward, we will double down on our strategy. These changes will be effective immediately with Panos' help in the transition," Jha wrote. "He will be missed, and I am personally very grateful for his many contributions over the years," he added. London, Sep 18 : Two men have been convicted by a UK court over a tragic road collision, which claimed the lives of two Indian-origin brothers, aged 23 months and 10 years, in 2019. Sanjay Singh and his infant brother Pawanveer died on the spot on March 14, 2019 when the BMW driven by their mother was struck by a speeding Audi S3 on Birmingham New Road in Wolverhampton. Mohammed Sullaiman Khan, 27, from Edgbaston admitted two counts of causing death by dangerous driving, and one count of causing serious injury during a trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court last week. . Mohammed Asim Khan, 35, from Birmingham was found guilty of perverting the course of justice for lying to police in connection with the case. Sullaiman also admitted perverting the course of justice. The two will be sentenced at a later date. "It was the blue Audi that collided with the mother's car. We say that the drivers of both cars are responsible," prosecutor Robert Price, opening the case at Wolverhampton Crown Court last month, said. Mother Arithi Nahar, who was behind the wheels, told the court that she had 'no chance' of avoiding the deadly collision as her car was 'propelled' onto the pavement and hurtled into metal railings. Witnesses described spotting two men dangerously racing 'bumper to bumper' moments before the impact, with one describing the pair as driving 'erratically like lunatics', according to local media reports. The court heard that Nahar was travelling back home with elder son Sanjay in the front passenger seat and younger son -- due to celebrate his second birthday just nine days before he died -- sitting at the back of the white BMW. "It was an act of sheer madness," Nahar, who was seriously injured in the crash, had told the court. The court heard that Sullaiman, the Audi driver, reached speeds of 90mph before he went through a red light and hit the BMW the boys were in with their mother. According to the police, the brothers were in their pyjamas as they were heading home after collecting their dinner from a fish restaurant where their father worked. "Both boys suffered catastrophic injuries and were sadly pronounced dead at the scene. Their mother Arithi Nahar suffered serious injuries," the police said in a statement. "Our duty was to Sanjay and Pawanveer and to their family, who have been so brave throughout," said Detective Constable (DC) Karl Davies from the West Midlands Police Serious Collision Investigation Unit, who led the enquiries. "It is awful, almost beyond words, for two young brothers to be killed in such a dreadful collision," Davies said. In a statement released via the West Midlands police, the parents said that they miss their children terribly. "We will never see them grow up into teenagers and then later as adults. We have been robbed of that. Our boys were taken away in a blink of an eye on 14 March 2019. The day that our lives and our home died too". "With the support of our family, friends, loved ones, colleagues and professionals like Victim Support and Edwards Trust we have developed a new way of living again with this constant pain and bleed in our hearts," the parents said. Sullaiman Khan is said to have fled the scene 'quickly' after the collision. He was later found in a burger bar on CCTV, looking uncomfortable from the impact of the collision. To pervert the course of justice, jurors heard how a 'false report' was made to police, suggesting a burglar who had stolen the Audi was to blame for the crash. Guwahati, Sep 18 : The Railway Protection Force (RPF) of Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), which operates in the northeastern states and in seven districts of West Bengal and five districts of north Bihar, rescued 23 minors during the drives against human trafficking in the past ten days, officials said on Monday. NFRas Chief Public Relations Officer Sabyasachi De said that the 23 minors were rescued and apprehended one person involved in human trafficking from different trains and railway stations over the NF Railway jurisdiction. The drives were conducted at different locations in New Bongaigaon, New Jalpaiguri, Jalpaiguri Road, Samsi, Badarpur, Barsoi, Rangiya, Katihar and Dimapur railway stations. All the rescued persons were later handed over to the respective child lines as per norms for safe custody and family members after proper verification. During the month of August, the RPF of NFR rescued 70 minor boys and girls and three women while one person involved in human trafficking was also arrested. The RPF remains vigilant for suspected persons involved in human trafficking as well as the movement of children in a suspicious manner, travelling alone, without proper guardians. Mumbai, Sep 18 : A Mumbai sessions court on Monday granted bail to accused bookie Anil Jaisinghani, six months after he was arrested from Gujarat in March in connection with an extortion case lodged by Amruta Fadnavis, wife of Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Granting bail on a Rs 50,000 bond, Additional Sessions Judge D. D. Almale has ordered Jaisinghani to surrender his passport with the police, not leave the country without the courtas prior permission, attend the court daily, and not influence witnesses in any manner, and other conditions. His daughter and co-accused Aniksha Jaisinghani, nabbed from Ulhasnagar on March 17, was granted bail after 10 days. The father-daughter and a cousin, Nirmal Jaisinghani had been booked by the Malabar Hill Police Station under charges of Prevention of Corruption Act and others. It followed a complaint by Amruta Fadnavis on February 20, and then discreet police investigations were launched to trap and arrest all the accused. Among other things, Amruta Fadnavis has contended that Aniksha Jaisinghani had attempted to lure and bribe her in return for helping out in a criminal case against her father, then threatened, blackmailed her with audio-video clips and tried to extort money from her. Anil Jaisinghani, who was facing and absconding in several other cases, was finally nabbed on March 20 from his hideout in Gujarat along with the relative, Nirmal Jaisinghani. In April, the Sessions Court court had rejected his bail plea and later the Bombay High Court junked Anil Jaisinghanias plea challenging his arrest as aillegala. The Internet could have become a place of infinite knowledge for humanity, but instead it turned into a dumping ground for fakes and the craziest conspiracy theories. It's not that they didn't exist before the Internet, but the network with billions of readers has taken everything to a new level. One of these conspiracy theories says that thousands of skeletons of giant people are being found around the world, the existence of which the Vatican and the American Smithsonian Institute are allegedly trying to hide. ADVERTISIMENT The IFLScience publication tells the details of this theory, as well as about a fairly simple mathematical law that gives the final answer to the question of whether giant people could ever exist on Earth. One of these popular theories with photographic evidence appeared a few years ago and was subsequently spread by all conspiracy theorists. "Giant skeletons are found by the thousands. The Vatican and the Smithsonian destroyed most of them, and some were thrown to the bottom of the ocean. Because the need to explain how they existed would contradict the evolution of mankind from apes. That's what we were forced to believe. And what do you believe?" the author of the post wrote on social network X (formerly known as Twitter), posting a photo that was supposed to prove the veracity of his statement. ADVERTISIMENT Instead, the photographic evidence turned out to be so primitively processed in Photoshop that it only aroused ridicule. Moreover, a search for the source of the photo revealed that it first appeared in 2002. It was discovered that it was created for an online contest in which (ironically) participants were asked to create a fake archaeological find using Photoshop. However, this did not stop the fans of the theory of giants at all. Posts began to appear about the remains of 24-meter tall people allegedly found in India. As evidence, more and more photos with the remains of giants appeared. And each of these photos was somehow processed to make it appear that the remains were much larger than they actually were. ADVERTISIMENT It even reached the point of absurdity when a painting by Spanish painter Francisco-Jose de Goya called "The Colossus" (1808), which depicts a giant man, was published as evidence. However, it is possible that the author of the post published the picture to mock the supporters of conspiracy theories. Nevertheless, is there any possibility that 24-meter tall people really existed on Earth? And is it possible that they were once seen, or at least heard about, by the Irish writer Jonathan Swift, who later described the giants in Gulliver's Travels (1726)? ADVERTISIMENT There is a mathematical law that can easily answer this question. It is the law of the square-cube, which was described in 1638 by Galileo Galilei. According to this law, as the size of any object increases, its volume grows faster than its surface area. This happens because the area grows in proportion to the square of your size, while the volume increases in proportion to the cube of your size. It's a bit complicated, but it will become clearer with an example. If you increase the scale of a person, its volume will increase sharply (cubically) in proportion to its size. At the same time, the cross-sectional area of muscles and bones will increase in proportion to the square. If a person's height reached 18 meters - 10 times the height of a person of 1.8 meters - the body area of the giant would be 100 times the area of an ordinary person (10 squared). ADVERTISIMENT Instead, the mass of such a giant would increase cubically. So, if a 180-centimeter tall person weighed 70 kilograms, then if they grew to 18 meters, their weight would increase to 343,000 kilograms (70 kg in a cube). Thus, such a person, if he or she existed, would most likely be crushed by his or her own mass. This theory is also confirmed by people known to science whose height was more than 2 meters: they all had problems with their backs, which were simply unable to withstand the load, and, as a rule, with their hearts, which were not large enough to transport the required amount of blood. One might argue that there were dinosaurs that were not destroyed by their own weight. Yes, but their physiological structure was such that it allowed them to grow to a certain size. Besides, we often overestimate the gigantism of dinosaurs. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, the largest of the dinosaurs, Dreadnoughtus, was 26 meters long. We are talking about length, because its height along the spine reached about a two-story building, and the rest was a long neck. Its weight was estimated to be about 65,000 kg. ADVERTISIMENT Earlier, OBOZREVATEL talked about what will happen when our Sun dies and whether it can become a black hole. Subscribe to OBOZREVATEL 'sTelegram and Viberchannels to keep up with the latest developments. Congress leaders go door-to-door in Telangana to explain six guarantees. Image Source: IANS News Hyderabad, Sep 18 : Buoyed by the success of 'Vijaya Bheri' public meeting in Hyderabad, the Congress leaders on Monday went door-to-door in assembly constituencies across Telangana to distribute six-guarantees cards. After the end of two-day meeting of Congress Working Committee (CWC) and last nightas public meeting, top Congress leaders from various states went to assembly constituencies assigned to them and spent the night there. On Monday, these leaders along with the local party functionaries went door to door to explain to people the promises made by the Congress and the failures of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government in the state. Appealing to people to vote for Congress in the upcoming elections, the Congress leaders promised that if voted to power the party would implement all six guarantees. CWC member and former union Sachin Pilot visited Nampally constituency in Hyderabad. He interacted with local people and explained the six guarantees. "If people elect us we will implement all the guarantees," he told media persons He claimed that Congress is strengthening at a fast pace in Telangana and is making a comeback. Sachin pilot exuded confidence that Congress will form the government in Telangana with absolute majority.. "We have seen the public enthusiasm yesterday. Lakhs of people were present at the public meeting. The youth have realised that their future is with Congress," he said. The former deputy chief minister of Rajasthan said people in five states were waiting to bring Congress to power Senior leader and former union minister Salamn Khursheed visited Hanamkonda constituency Former Manipur Chief Minister and CLP leader Okram Ibobi Singh participated in a door to door campaign in Shadnagar constituency. He said the Congress will bring radical changes in people's way of life. He along with Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) general secretary Veerlapalli Shankar went door to door explaining the six guarantees. He handed over the guarantee cards to people. Tamil Nadu state Congress in-charge Ruby Manoharan visited Peddapalli constituency to participate in the campaign. He was accompanied by former MLA of Peddapalli and TPCC vice-president, Chintakunta Vijayaraman Rao and other leaders. AICC Secretary (organisation) Vamsichand Reddy took part in the campaign in Kalwakurthy constituency. After night halt in a tribal hamlet in the constituency, he went door-to-door to explain six guarantees to people. Gujarat CLP leader Amit Chavda visited Patancheru constituency to participate in the campaign. Uttarakhand CLP leader Yashpal Arya campaigned in Nagarkurnool constituency along with the local leaders. In Pargi constituency, CWC member and former deputy chief minister Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa distributed six guarantee cards. AICC Social Media and Digital Platforms chairperson Supriya Shrinate led the campaign in Jangaon constituency. CWC member Alka Lamba interacted with people in Ramagundam constituency and explained what the Congress will do in Telangana after coming to power. Looking to replicate its Karnataka victory in Telangana, the Congress party on Sunday announced the six guarantees for different sections like women, farmers, homeless, youth and senior citizens. The promises include financial assistance of Rs2,500 for every woman, free bus travel for women in TSRTC buses across Telangana, cooking gas cylinder for Rs 500, financial assistance of Rs 15,000 per acre for farmers including tenant farmers, Rs 12,000 per year for agriculture labourers will be provided an assistance of Rs 12,000 per year, a bonus of Rs 500 bonus per quintal for paddy crop above the Minimum Support Price (MSP), house sites and Rs 5 lakh for the homeless, 250 square yard plots for Telangana movement fighters, 200 units of free electricity, Vidya Bharosa Card worth Rs. 5 lakh each for students, Telangana international schools in all mandals, Rs 4,000 monthly pension and Rs 10 lakh health insurance. Kolkata, Sep 18 : The West Bengal Education Department faced the ire of the Calcutta High Court for wrong calculation of service of a teacher of a state run-school. Following the wrong calculation, mathematics teacher Jayanta Burman lost a total of nine months from his service period. As per records of the state Education Department, Burman joined service on October 14, 2018 as the Rampur Higher Secondary School in North Dinajpur district of West Bengal. In July 2019, he was transferred to Dudunda Aloktirtho Vidyapith in the same district and he joined there on July 10, 2019. However, to his surprise, his service period was later counted from July 10, 2019, that is with the second school in his teaching career. Not only the first nine months of his service at Rampur Higher Secondary School deducted from his service period but also the salary for those months was denied. A depressed Burman then approached the Calcutta High Court in the matter. Hearing the case, Justice Biswajit Basu summoned the district inspector (DI) of schools for North Dinajpur district for a response but his explanation to the court irked the judge further. The official said was that during the period, Burman served at Rampur Higher Secondary School, there was no approved post of mathematics teacher at the school and hence his appointment was not considered as approved. Justice Basu observed that in that case the fault was with the office of the district inspector of schools and not with the teacher that his appointment was made to a school where there was no sanctioned post for which the appointment was given. When the DI failed to give any plausible counter argument, Justice Basu ordered the inclusion of those nine months in the service period of the teacher concerned along with the immediate payment of his salary for that period. Jaipur, Sep 18 : Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Rahul Gandhi will lay the foundation stone of the new Congress state headquarters building on September 23 in Jaipur. The inaugural process will be followed by a Congress meeting and workers' dialogue. Congress will also kick start the election campaign through this meeting and the election related tasks will be given to party officials from booth level to district level. A joint conference of booth president, block president, division president, city president, district president and state officials of Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee will also be organised. Congress state president Govind Singh Dotasra said that Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge have been invited to lay the foundation stone of the building of the new state Congress headquarters on September 23. He said that a meeting has also been organised. "From our booth presidents to all the office bearers have been invited. We have got land allotted for the new building from the government. All formalities have been completed," he said. He said that the PCC building will be built in front of the new City Park near Dravyavati river front in Mansarovar area. "A total of 6000 square yards of land has been allotted to build the Congress headquarters. The new headquarters project will cost around Rs 80 crore," he said. He said that separate chambers will be built for the state president and officials in the new state headquarters of Congress. General Secretary and Spokesperson of Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee, Swarnim Chaturvedi said that the officials of the organisation including district, block, division and booth presidents and executive officials should participate in the conference. New Delhi: Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh addresses at the launch of Former Rajya Sabha MP Karan Singh's book "An Examined Life" in New Delhi, on May 20, 2019. . Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, Sep 18 : Former prime minister and Rajya Sabha MP Manmohan Singh, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha leader and Rajya Sabha member Shibu Soren and BJP Lok Sabha MP Maneka Gandhi are likely to speak during a function in Central Hall to commemorate the legacy of Parliament on Tuesday. The function will mark the end of Parliamentary proceedings in the old building and then from 1:15 pm onwards, proceedings of both Houses will begin in the new Parliament building. According to sources, after a group photo session of members of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha at 9:30 am, a function titled "Legacy of Parliament of India and Making Bharat Developed by 2047" will be held in the Central Hall between 11 am and 12:30 pm. Sources informed that Singh being the senior-most MP in Rajya Sabha term-wise and Maneka Gandhi being the senior-most MP in Lok Sabha term-wise have been given the honour to speak at the function, where vice president Jagdeep Dhankhar, Speaker Om Birla and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will also be present. Modi will also address the function, sources said. Soren is the most senior MP due to his tenure in both Houses combined and that is why he has been invited to speak at the function, sources added. They said that apart from these, leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, leader of Rajya Sabha Piyush Goyal and leader of opposition in the upper house Mallikarjun Kharge will also speak. After this, the special session will resume in the new Parliament building at 1:15 pm. Earlier today, the special session of Parliament began with a discussion on 75 years of Parliament, with Modi initiating the discussion. The session is to continue till September 22. Kolkata, Sep 18 : A petition has been filed at the Calcutta High Court on Monday accusing the officers of Kolkata's Kasba Police Station of a "lackadaisical probe" in the suicide of a minor student by jumping for the fifth floor of the school on September 4. The petition, filed by the parents of the deceased student, accused the investigating officials of not releasing the footage of the CCTV cameras installed within the school premises for the day when the tragedy took place. They have also accused the investigating officers of refusing to hand over a copy of the post-mortem report of their deceased son and demanded a second post-mortem examination. A bench of Justice Jay Sengupta has admitted the petition and the matter will come up for hearing at this bench on Tuesday. Immediately after the incident on September 4, the parents accused the school authorities of mentally humiliating their son for the last couple of years, since his father was one the guardians who had protested against the school authorityas decision to hike the fee substantially during the Covid-19 period. On September 7, the school authorities announced its closure for an indefinite period and since then, the school has remained closed. A notice signed by the principal was pasted on the gate of the school on September 7, which said that the school authorities, just like the parents of the deceased student, are equally shocked by the tragic incident. "We want to assure the parents that Silver Point School gives topmost priority to the safety and security of their children admitted here. However, till further notice, the school remains closed," the notice read. United Nations, Sept 18 : UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday renewed his call for the reform of the "outdated, dysfunctional and unfair" World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and for a $500 billion stimulus fund for the world organisation's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Speaking at the opening of the SDG Summit, Guterressaid that in the dark global scenario of "people crushed under the grinding wheels of poverty", climate change and conflict, the SDGs "carry the hopes, dreams, rights and expectations of people everywhere". The faltering SDGs -- the 17 lofty goals hoping to cure the world's ills from poverty and hunger to climate change and inequality, while bringing about peace and justice by 2030 --"need a global rescue plan", he said. The SDG Summit is being held at the mid-way point between the adoptions of the goals in 2015 and the 2030 deadline to reach them in order to evaluate progress and recharge commitments to them. Guterres said he was calling for "a new Bretton Woods moment, and the development of practical solutions" by next September when he is convening a "Summit of the Future". The conference held at Bretton Woods in the US in 1944 established the World Bank and the IMF and set up the foundations of the international monetary system -- some of which have atrophied -- in the aftermath of World War II and reflecting the power structure of the period. Guteress' calls are embedded in the draft of a political declaration that the summit is expected to adopt. The reform of the multilateral banking system and aid agencies as well as increasing funding for development in a world devastated by the Covid pandemic and the Ukraine war is a rallying cry of the Global South. General Assembly President Dennis Francis said, "I challenge you all to demonstrate emboldened leadership by using this Summit to announce groundbreaking commitments to support and to complete the 2030 [SDG] Agenda," which he called "a true blueprint for humanity". Recharging the SDGs will bring "a sense of confidence that UN-led multilateralism delivers", he added. Francis warned that despite the commitments made in the SDGs, "alarmingly, 1.2 billion people were still living in multi-dimensional poverty as of 2022" and "it is estimated that approximately 8 per cent of the global population -- or 680 million people -- will still be facing hunger in 2030". The SDG Summit with about 150 presidents, prime ministers, princes and monarchs kicked off the beginning of their annual gathering in New York putting the focus on development and climate change, while the harrowing Ukraine war which the world body is powerless to stop festers. The General Assembly's high-level meeting starts Tuesday with the first address by Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, to be followed by US President Joe Biden's address. Biden will be the only top leader of a permanent member of the Security Council this week at the UN. Presidents Xi Jinping of China, Vladimir Putin of Russia and Emmanuel Macron of France, and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of Britain are skipping the summits, as is Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India. The General Assembly is more political and Russia's invasion of Ukraine will figure prominently there. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky will be there in person this time -- a much-adulated figure -- after having been given a special dispensation last year to speak through a video link. He will speak during the opening session of the Assembly meeting, and the next day at the Council's meeting on Ukraine, where he will likely come face to face with Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov as makes his stinging denunciation of Moscow. The spotlight turns next to climate change on Wednesday. Guterres convened the Climate Ambition Summit to turbocharge action and funding to meet what he has repeatedly called the "existential threat" to humanity. He has demanded that all leaders, especially those from the industrialised countries, leave aside the rhetoric and come with concrete plans and commitment for keeping global warming under 1.5-degree Celsius. "This is not a time for posturing or positioning. This is not a time for indifference or indecision. This is the time to come together for real, practical solutions," he said. As with development, Guterres seeks to involve the private sector in fighting climate change. Representatives of businesses will be participating at several events throughout the week on the two topics. (Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @arulouis) Patna: Rahtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP) chief Upendra Kushwaha addresses at the launch of the party's list of candidates for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections during a press conference, in Patna on April 3, 2019. . Image Source: IANS News Patna, Sep 18 : Rashtriya Lok Janata Dal (RLJD) President Upendra Kushwaha on Monday suggested that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar should leave the opposition INDIA alliance. "I have sympathy with Nitish Kumar. He is my elder brother. The way he is facing the problem, I would suggest him to come out of Mahagathbandhan. At such an age, taking pain and mental pressure is not wise," Kushwaha said. "Nitish Ji stayed as an alliance partner with BJP for his entire life and now he is separated. He is a secular leader. When I was not with BJP, I was secular and now I am with BJP, still I am a secular leader. I would suggest Nitish Ji to exit from Mahagathbandhan," Kushwaha said. When asked if Nitish Kumar would leave INDIA, would you welcome him in NDA, Kushwaha said that BJP is the biggest party in NDA. "So I have no authority to talk about his joining. It is the responsibility of BJP to decide on such things," he said. Meanwhile, former minister Monazir Hasan joined the RLJD in presence of Kushwaha on Monday. During Hasan's joining function, Kushwaha said that Monazir Hasan is a well known face in the politics of Bihar. "He left JD-U and joined our party with thousands of his supporters. We welcome him to the party," Kushwaha said. Hasan said that Upendra Kushwaha will be our chief minister face for Bihar. "For Upendra Kushwaha, Muslim and Kushwaha are with him and it is a new equation in the politics of Bihar. RJD and JD-U cheated the minority in Bihar," Hasan said. Monazir Hasan was MP and minister in the Bihar government. He was associated with JD-U and recently resigned from the primary membership of the party. Patna, Sep 18 : A man in Bihar's Samastipur district stabbed his wife to death on Monday afternoon, police said. Incidentally, the crime occurred on Hartalika Teej - a festival where married women observe a day-long fast without even drinking a drop of water. The accused was identified as Mukesh Kumar, a native of Vaini village under Pusa police station in the district, who got married to Komal Kumari 8 years ago and they had 2 children. As he used to beat her since their marriage, Komal, as a result, used to stay in her parental house in Nikaspur under Tajpur police station in the district. Due to his frequent assaults, there were attempts to resolve the situation and officials have directed both the sides to respect each other. However, on Monday, Mukesh Kumar came to the house of Komal and stabbed her repeatedly. When her mother and younger sister came to her rescue, he also attacked them. After committing the crime, he tried to flee from the spot but the villagers apprehended him. Tying him to an electric pole, they thrashed him brutally and also tried to set him ablaze. However, Tajpur SHO Braj Kishore Singh reached the spot in time and managed to rescue the accused after a struggle with the angry villagers. The police team also took the victims to the health centre at Tajpur where doctors declared Komal brought dead while the other two were critically injured and were referred to Sadar hospital, Samastipur. aWe have arrested the accused and taken him to the police station where he was booked on charges of murder and attempted murder. Further investigation is underway," Singh said. New Delhi, Sep 18 : The Delhi High Court on Monday issued notice to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) claiming that Afghan refugee students studying in the corporation's primary schools are being deprived of statutory monetary benefits due to the non-opening of their bank accounts. The petition, filed by NGO Social Jurist, alleges that the actions of the authorities in depriving Afghan refugee students of statutory benefits are arbitrary and discriminatory, violating their fundamental right to education as guaranteed under the Constitution of India, the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, and Delhi Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Rules. According to the Delhi Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Rules, all students in Delhi government and MCD-run schools are entitled to free textbooks, writing materials, and uniforms. Instead of providing these items, the authorities transfer money to the students' bank accounts. A division bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Sanjeev Narula was hearing a petition claiming that 46 Afghan students in the MCD school do not have bank accounts due to a lack of Know Your Customer (KYC) documents. The court was informed that a representation was given to the authorities suggesting cash to the students if there are issues with opening or operating bank accounts. However, no action has been taken, and the money owed to the students is still with the MCD school. The petition urged the court to Issue any appropriate writ, order or direction directing the respondents and more particularly to respondent MCD Primary School, Jangpura Extension to grant statutory benefits to 46 Afghanistan refugee students. The court issued notice to the MCD, MCD Primary School at Jangpura Extension and Indian Overseas Bank at Jangpura on the petition, and listed the matter for hearing again on October 6. --IANS spr/vd New Delhi, Sep 18 : The Congress on Monday hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his tenure has been marked by minimum non-customary interventions in Parliament with the worst attendance record of all Prime Ministers. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh in a post on X (formerly Twitter) said: "From tomorrow afternoon, Parliament will convene in the new building. Hopefully, now at least the Prime Minister will sit more frequently in both Houses. "His tenure has been marked by minimum non-customary interventions in Parliament with the worst attendance record of all Prime Ministers." On Tuesday, addressing the Lok Sabha, the Prime Minister said that on Tuesday, they will move to the new Parliament building but this old building will always inspire the generations to come. He also recalled the contributions of first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and recalled how it was here that Pandit Nehru, gave his 'Tryst With Destiny' speech which "will continue to inspire us". Even Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge during the day also took a pot shot at Modi and said that former Prime Ministers Atal Bihari Vajpayee gave statements 21 times, and Manmohan Singh gave statements 30 times during their tenure while apart from a few "customary comments", Prime Minister Modi made a statement only twice. --IANS aks/vd Munjz, the Saudi-based prop-tech cloud platform, has entered into strategic partnerships with six regional industry giants. The agreements were signed on September 12 and 13 at the Cityscape Global Exhibition with Osus Real Estate, Innovest Real Estate, and Jawdah Real Estate; two prop-tech companies, Deal App and Aqar App; and investment company, Nawat Investment. With all companies strongly positioned within the Saudi real estate development and investment market, Munjz has strategically placed itself in the industry, and aims to increases the technological efficiency across the kingdom by integrating its platform and services with these companies. Munjz's platform encompasses the entire property management process by acting as a central hub that connects property owners, residents, facility managers, service providers, and vendors. Whether it's handling maintenance requests, processing orders, or managing tasks, users benefit from the complete control of the maintenance process, allowing for total oversight from start to finish, said a statement. Abdullah AlDaij, Founder and CEO of Munjz, shared a statement on the partnership saying: "Munjz's commitment to revolutionising property management through these strategic partnerships is in alignment with the Saudi Vision 2030. Through the platform our partners are able to manage their properties all in one place. Osus is one of Saudis oldest real estate development companies, and with Munjz, they will be able to easily control the management processes of each property in their portfolio. Jassem Al Omran, COO of Munjz, said: The synergy these partnerships bring to the table will allow Munjz to enhance the services and continue to be at the forefront of revolutionizing the property management landscape. Our prop-tech platform is designed to offer a comprehensive property management and also to encourage and facilitate effective communication among users. Osus will be able to utilise the prop-tech platform in maintaining and serving all its properties. "Munjz's cutting-edge prop-tech platform will enable us to manage our extensive portfolio of properties efficiently. With our newly signed partnership, we believe that the platform's innovative solutions will empower us to provide a higher level of service and excellence to our valued clients and properties, said Mohammad Almujaidel, CEO of Osus Real Estate. Munjz will not only facilitate maintenance to its new partners, but also streamlines communication between users on the platform. Deal App, one of Munjzs newest tech partners, will be able to integrate its business and connect with real estate developers, driving its growth. As both a brokerage and property listings app, the partnership facilitates a new two-way market for both sides where brokers have the ability to now increase sales and revenue through Munjz's app, in turn allowing the real estate developers to have access to more certified brokers. Salah Alswaidan, CEO of Deal App, stated We recognise the immense potential of our partnership with Munjz in enhancing our services. Our platform, designed to connect buyers, sellers, and brokers, thrives on providing optimal user experiences. By integrating with Munjz's innovative prop-tech platform, we gain access to data and a vast network of real estate developers, thus deepening our market segmentation capabilities. TradeArabia News Service The Kremlin refused to comment on the health of Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. They explained this by saying that the Russian presidential administration "can hardly give" relevant information. ADVERTISIMENT The rumors circulating online about the Chechen leader were commented on by the Russian dictator's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov. He was asked a question about Kadyrov by the Russian media on September 18 during a press conference. Peskov gave an evasive answer, but at the same time called the sources' information "speculation" "We do not have any information regarding speculations about Ramzan Kadyrov's health. In any case, the presidential administration is unlikely to issue health certificates. There is nothing to add," said the representative of the Russian president. To recap: The Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine stated that Kadyrov's health condition had deteriorated significantly. He was allegedly in a coma for several days. According to our publication, the head of Chechnya could have undergone a kidney transplant, but the organ did not take root. According to some reports, Vladimir Putin's henchman is in critical condition in a clinic in Moscow. ADVERTISIMENT As OBOZREVATEL previously reported: - The Institute for the Study of War believes that the continued concern about Kadyrov's condition in the information space indicates Putin's dependence on Kadyrov to maintain stability in Chechnya. - The media reported that on September 17, unusual activity was observed near the Central Clinical Hospital in Moscow, where the Chechen leader could have been hospitalized. Only verified information is available on our Obozrevatel Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! New Delhi : PM Modi speaks in Lok Sabha during the special session of parliament. Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, Sep 18 : Amid frenzied speculations within political circles since Monday morning and incessant demands from MPs across party lines, seeking passage of women's reservation bill in Lok Sabha, the Union Cabinet is learnt to have given its consent to the much awaited legislation. There is a likelihood that a few other key legislations may also have been reportedly cleared by the Union Cabinet. Many opposition leaders have been questioning the real intent of the government in convening a special session of Parliament just a month after the monsoon session had ended. As several government functionaries remained tight-lipped over the agenda of the cabinet meeting, unconfirmed reports claimed that the bill had been passed. The Union Cabinet had met on Monday evening, and its meeting lasted for a couple of hours. The bill ensures reservation of 33 per cent seats for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative Assemblies. In May 2008, the womenas reservation bill was introduced in the Rajya Sabha and was referred to a standing committee. It was passed in the upper house in 2010 and then it was sent to Lok Sabha. However it could not be passed and lapsed with the 15th Lok Sabha. Speculations were rife since Monday morning about the bill, after Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the media outside Parliament before the commencement of the special session, had said that "the special session of Parliament might be a short one, but it holds great importance in terms of historical decisions". During the discussions on 75 years of Parliament earlier in the day, Leader of the Congress in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, NCP's Supriya Sule and many other lawmakers sought passage of the women's reservation bill during the special session. On Sunday, the Congress had passed a resolution in the CWC meeting that the women's reservation bill should be passed in the upcoming special session. Meanwhile prior to the cabinet meeting, a series of meetings took place among the BJP leaders. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and Parliamentary Affairs minister Pralhad Joshi met Home Minister Amit Shah. BJP chief J.P. Nadda was also present in the meeting. New Delhi, Sep 18 : The Delhi High Court has sentenced a man to six months simple imprisonment for contempt of court after he repeatedly failed to pay dues to the widow of his deceased driver and violated undertakings given to the court. Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav found the man guilty of willfully disobeying his undertakings to make payments to the widow and for evading court appearances. The court stated that imposing a fine would not be sufficient in this case, and it opted for a six-month jail sentence. "This court is of the opinion that one cannot be allowed to trounce the majesty of law and pollute the streams of justice by brazenly engaging in contumacious conduct with an aim of hoodwinking the judicial system. The edifice of a vibrant constitutional democracy rests on the pillars of rule of law, which needs to be preserved with full vigour to maintain the sanctity of judicial proceedings," the court said. The case arose from a complaint by the woman, whose husband worked as a driver for the man and was not paid wages from May 2013. An award was issued by the Commissioner of Employee's Compensation in 2017, directing the man to pay compensation and interest, but he failed to comply. After giving an undertaking to the court to make the payment within two months, the man still did not pay, leading to the contempt proceedings. "Even in these contempt proceedings, this court had to issue NBW several times to ensure the presence of the contemnor as he was evading appearance. Therefore, this court is constrained to impose the maximum sentence as the contemnor has repeatedly breached his own undertakings," the court said. It noted that the man made no effort to obey the undertakings and did not show respect for the court of law. Consequently, it imposed the maximum sentence of six months of simple imprisonment. "Even at this stage, had the contemnor offered any reasonable amount to the petitioner, this court would have been inclined to defer the factum of awarding punishment. Unfortunately, the contemnor has not even made miniscule of efforts to abide by his own undertakings and pay any reasonable sum to purge the contempt. Therefore, this court is duty bound to ensure that necessary consequences follow," it said. New York, Sept 18 : The United States is fast losing out on global opinion, especially in countries from the south for its opinion, views or policies as Russia and China band together to get other countries to align with their views. US media reports claimed that the analysis is based on the situational awareness of the US, which is increasingly at odds with both the world's other major nuclear-armed countries as Russia continues its war in Ukraine. The analysis is also based on the fact that the growth in China's might see it as rivalling the United States as the preeminent military power in East Asia and potentially beyond. Both countries are veto-holding members of the UN Security Council and have consistently challenged the US dominance. Some call it the universal policeman attitude that has emerged after the Cold War when Ronald Regan as the President of US and Russian President Mikhael Gorbachev initiated the SALT negotiations. The analysis is based on a recent analysis of three decades of voting patterns in the United Nations General Assembly; Newsweek quoted experts in a special feature on the declining power of the US on world powers. "Russia and China have gained the affinity of swathes of the international community, particularly in the Global South," Dmitriy Nurullayev, assistant professor at the College of Applied Science & Tech at the University of Arizona, was quoted by the Newsweek as saying. Nurullayev assimilated data of voting patterns of countries at the United Nations to make his analysis with the period for sampling chosen between 1991 and 2020, involving some 1,500 global issues. Mihaela Papa of Tufts University, who assisted Nurullayev in the study, found that Russia and China had disagreed with the US in almost all the 1.500 cases. Their view prevailed 86 per cent of the time. Alignment with the United States was greater -- at 36 per cent -- when the analysis considered only the 211 resolutions that the US State Department had designated as being important to national interests, Nurullayev pointed out in a follow-up article. In 1997, China and Russia adopted the Joint Declaration on a Multipolar World and the Establishment of a new International Order, Newsweek pointed out, saying their commitment to this initiative was based on the principles of respect of sovereignty and every country's right to choose independently its own path of development. In February 2022, Moscow and Beijing in an apparent reference to the US intervention on the Russia-Ukraine war in a joint statement said that countries should not impose their own "democratic standards" on others. The US has been funnelling funds to war-torn Ukraine in military aid, humanitarian assistance and building up opinion against Russia among the NATO allies. China and Russia's ability to influence or counter US opinion on global issues has been enhanced by membership in groups such as the BRICS alliance, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the G-77 group of emerging economies, Nurullayev opined. BRICS' founders were Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, but in recent times the founders agreed to the membership of Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates from 2024, thus expanding their footprint across the globe. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization has China and Russia with India, Pakistan and central Asian countries as members. The G-77 members spread are across Asia, Africa and Latin America. "Membership in these soft-balancing institutions has a discernible effect on foreign policies of both authoritarian regimes and democracies. India, Brazil, and South Africa are all democratic states and yet tacitly support Russia over Ukraine," he told Newsweek. The US allies in the NATO military grouping were more likely to align with the US view, but time has tested this as it has weakened over time, when it actually came to issues involving the Middle East, the research said. Neither the US State Department responded to a request for comment on the research by Nuurullayev and Mihaela Papa on their view of the US losing on global opinion. Nor did Chinese and Russian foreign ministries react to queries on the research findings. . Nurullayev admitted that there was not enough data to explore voting trends since the start of the war in Ukraine in February 2022, but he opined that it would not change significantly, perhaps it may weaken Russia and strengthen China. "There is, however, an opportunity for the United States. A realistic/sober policy would be to continue our support for Ukraine but not get entangled ourselves and to work with China to stop the war from escalating," he said. Even as the United States and its Western allies imposed sanctions on Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, Washington did not get the backing of India, which continues to import Russian oil, and many other countries in the Global South or even NATO member Turkey. These countries were resorting to the art of diplomatic balancing between US and Russia so as not to anger the latter. Particularly on issues of US military aid to Ukraine with military equipment while maintaining trade ties with Moscow. An incline is being witnessed as not only Russia and China, but the world in general, is shifting to a more authoritarian direction. The Freedom House advocacy group in a study spanning 2006 to 2021, found that in 16 years more countries declined than rose on its index of freedom. Washington should adopt a different approach more broadly. "The narrative that the U.S. is a declining power and China is a rising power is a bit over explored. Perhaps we should embrace the status of the underdog," he said. The United States has a lot to say about its economic prowess: Highly-skilled workforce, extremely favourable geographic location, high standards of living. Globally, the focus has to shift to more realistic and objectively beneficial tasks. "We should walk away from international state building and involuntary democracy building," the research said. "Instead, we should focus on strengthening our democratic institutions at home, creating a highly educated and sophisticated population at home and making America an attractive destination for both economic capital and intellectual capital. Internationally, we should focus on creating sustainable relations with our allies and work with China on issues of mutual interest such as climate change," the researchers said. Srinagar, Sep 18 : A pistol-bearing terrorist attempted to attack a CRPF vehicle in downtown Srinagar on Monday evening but the bid was effectively repelled by alert security personnel, police said. "There was an attempted attack by pistol-bearing terrorist on a BP vehicle of the CRPF in Khanyar area which was repelled by the alert personnel," police said. "The terrorist was chased away by personnel, who showed wise restraint due to potential collateral damage." Police said no injury to life or property was reported. New Delhi, Sep 18 : The Delhi High Court has said that an individual's right to choose a life partner cannot be restricted by matters of faith and religion. It said that the right to marry is an "incident of human liberty" and should not be dictated by the state, society, or parents when it involves consenting adults. The observation came as Justice Saurabh Banerjee granted protection to a couple facing threats from the woman's family. The couple, both of legal age, married under the Special Marriage Act, 1954, against their parents' wishes, leading to constant threats. The court noted that the right to marry a person of one's choice is integral to Article 21 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty. It highlighted that personal choices, especially in matters of marriage, are protected under Article 21. Justice Banerjee said that the woman's parents cannot threaten the life and liberty of the couple, stating that they do not require social approval for their personal decisions and choices. The court directed the authorities to provide contact information for a Beat Constable and the SHO to the couple, ensuring their protection as needed. --IANS spr/vd Silchar : , Sep 18 (IANS) Students at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) here began an indefinite hunger strike on Monday in protest of the academic dean's alleged involvement in a student's suicide on the campus premises last week. At least 2,000 students have declared a hunger strike, which began at 7 a.m. on Monday and will last until their demands are met, according to the students. They submitted that Prof. Dilip Kumar Baidya, Director of NIT Silchar, should quit "for permitting the Dean of Academics B.K. Roy to harass students". Koj Buker, a third-year electrical engineering student, was spotted hanging in his dorm room on Friday night. The students asserted that BK Roy, the academic dean, was responsible behind the suspected suicide. Students submitted that until "justice is served," they will keep protesting. "Many students were tormented by professor BK Roy, and Koj Buker was one among them. We vehemently oppose this and we demand Roy's resignation," a student who spoke on the condition of anonymity said. "We are demanding justice, and our protests are democratic. Until justice is served, we shall continue the hunger strike," another student remarked. The kitchens in the dormitories and the mess, according to the students, have been shut down. Additionally shuttered are all of the campus's food stores. One protester said: "We are only taking water and giving ORS to those, getting weak." Four students, including a female, reportedly lost consciousness this evening. "They are now better since we gave them ORS. Even in this state, they did not want to leave the protest area," said one of the students. An official, however, insisted that there is no such thing as a hunger strike and that students are going to their dormitories to get food before returning. "They are trying to draw attention with this hunger strike now because they are aware that they made a mistake in assaulting professors and are now in a vulnerable position. In a few days, things will return to normal," the official said. According to a senior police officer, the demonstration has so far been peaceful and no adverse incidents have been reported. A previous Saturday protest by the deceased's classmates descended into violence, prompting police to use lathicharge, which left 40 people hurt, according to officials. A company of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Assam police were stationed at the NIT campus following the on-campus fighting on Friday night, and they are still there. Students said that by enforcing laws with the aid of forces and the police, the administration and NIT authorities were attempting to exert pressure on them. Even though they first refused to permit our peaceful candle march, a student declared: "We cannot congregate, and we cannot protest." Three First Information Reports (FIR) were filed against the students. Cachar District Superintendent of Police (SP) Numal Mahatta stated that "no student has been arrested yet and the students offered an unconditional apology", adding that the matter is now under control. Meanwhile, the protesting students insisted that they wouldn't go to class unless their demands were met. Chandigarh, Sep 18 : The Jail Department of Punjab on Monday denied media reports pertaining to usage of mobile phones in state prisons by terming a viral video viral of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi as misleading, baseless and not connected to the jails of the state. A news channel had flashed a video of September 17 in which high-risk prisoner Lawrence Bishnoi could be seen speaking to now arrested cow vigilante Monu Manesar through a WhatsApp video call. Manesar is one of the prime accused in inciting violence in Haryana Nuh district. In the video, another person could be seen sitting in a chair with Bishnoi. The video was uploaded on social media and it was alleged that Bishnoi was using a mobile phone while in custody at the Bathinda jail. The inquiry into the matter was entrusted to the Inspector General of Prisons. After probe, it was found that the person sitting with Bishnoi in the video was Rajkumar aka Raju Bishodhi, an official statement said. Rajkumar was lodged at the district jail in Sri Muktsar Sahib for 28 days from January 25, 2021. As per official record, Bishnoi was lodged in the Central Jail in Faridkot till 2018, and was handed over to some other state's police on January 4, 2018. Subsequently, he stayed in prisons of other states and was brought back to the Central Jail in Bathinda on September 24, 2022. He was again handed over to Gujarat Police on August 24, 2023. In the wake of substantial evidence, the Inspector General of Prisons denied the fact that the video was recorded in any of the prisons in the state as both Bishnoi and Rajkumar did not stay together in any prison in Punjab. New Delhi, Sep 19 : The Delhi government on Monday said that despite the orders from a minister, civil defence volunteers and bus marshals were not receiving their salaries. It said that on September 3, Revenue Minister Atishi had ordered the Principal Secretary, Revenue, to release the salaries of civil defense volunteers and bus marshals within a week. "However, even after the minister's order, their salaries have not been disbursed till date. This issue has arisen since the introduction of the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Act 2023, and despite the minister's orders, they are not being paid. The lack of salaries has created financial difficulties for civil defence volunteers and bus marshals," it said. "Atishi had stated that she was aware that civil defence volunteers had not received their salaries for several months, and this situation is alarming. It should be addressed immediately. During the Covid-19 pandemic, civil defence volunteers played an exceptional role, assisting millions of Delhi residents. They extended relief services to those in need, contributing significantly to the government's efforts. Their dedication and commitment are commendable," it said. "The Revenue Minister had further stated that during the floods in Delhi, the role of civil defence volunteers was highly significant. They worked to deliver relief supplies to flood victims at relief camps and provided facilities for them. On the other hand, bus marshals continue to provide their regular services on buses. Therefore, it is not right to withhold their salaries even while on duty. The Principal Secretary (Revenue) should take immediate notice of this and release the salaries of all civil defense volunteers within 7 days," the Delhi govt added. New Delhi, Sep 18 : Former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) SY Quraishi on Monday shared a letter by the Vasant Valley Alumni urging Aroon Purie, founder of the school and TV Today Group to clamp down on the hatred emanating from airwaves and hold accountable those who openly engage in communal polarisation under the garb of news reportage. Quraishi shared the letter on X (formerly Twitter), saying: "Hope Purie doesn't consider closing down the school or changing the principal to one Prof Sudhir Chaudhary." In letter to Purie, the Alumni of Vasant Valley said: "We write to you today as the alumni of Vasant Valley School. The India Today Group are founders of Vasant Valley School and TV Today owns and operates multiple television channels including India Today and Aaj Tak. This is an association that many of us as Alumni have been incredibly proud of, given India Today's historical legacy in holding the powerful to account even during some of our Country's darkest days, including the Emergency, the 1984 Delhi Riots, the 2002 Gujarat Riots, to name just a handful of instances." The letter said that "it is within the educational institution that you founded, that we learned and internalized our Constitutional principles of freedom, justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity". Yet, regrettably, it is these same values that are being undermined constantly by many within the India Today ecosystem. "Our only ask in the following letter is that as Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of the India Today Group, you clamp down on the hatred emanating from your airwaves and hold accountable those that openly engage in communal polarisation under the garb of news reportage," the letter read. It also highlighted the glorious reporting by the India Today Group. "However, it is extremely concerning to see the polarising tenor of some of India Today's news anchors, particularly on Aaj Tak. 50+ panchayats have issued boycotts against the Muslim community in the aftermath of these riots. Bulldozer justice, which saw 1,200+ structures demolished, has become the tool to inflict retribution against Muslims after any communal incident. Instead of questioning the establishment over this tactic which is an embarrassment to the rule of law, primetime anchors have often justified these actions, cheering on the deliverance of collective punishment. In these times, we look towards organizations such as India Today to provide situational clarity, demand accountability, and douse the flames of communal hatred, rather than fanning its embers," it stated. It further stated that instead, we find that some of the commentary is extremely reductive, devoid of nuance, and does nothing to hold those in power accountable. "It is as one of Aaj Tak's shows is titled, 'Black and White'," it read. It also said that media complicity was spelt out by the CRPF officer who killed 4 innocent men, 3 of them based on their appearance. "The officer justified his actions while carrying out this terrorist attack, citing the dog whistles he heard on news television. If the spate of communal incidents across the country isn't a wake-up call, at least the ethnic strife and civil war-like situation in Manipur should serve as a lens into the disaster that polarisation can impart upon us," it stated. "Our school environment nurtured within us values of inclusivity, empathy and responsibility. You don't owe us any answers, nor are we writing this to demand an explanation. Our only hope is that some of the values that were instilled within us as students, through our teachers, the school administration, our peers, and indeed Mrs. Purie, find their way back to the India Today newsrooms," it added. Washington, Sep 19 : US President Joe Biden has ordered the unfreezing of Iran's $6 billion of oil revenue in an effort to thaw the icy relations between the two countries over the nuclear issue even as a prisoner swap was negotiated successfully, some of them were on a plane back to US. The President's deal comes ahead of a UN meeting here where Biden and Iran's hardliner president will both speak, unfolding as it does, against a backdrop of nuclear tensions between the two countries. Five Americans imprisoned in Iran were on a plane Monday along with two family members after being released in a prisoner exchange the Biden administration negotiated with Tehran, media reports said. As part of the deal, $6 billion in frozen Iranian oil revenues was released by the Biden administration and five Iranians charged or convicted of non-violent crimes were freed by the US, according to US officials. The exchange is in no way tied to the stalled nuclear talks between the US and Iran, but does come as a move to defuse the increasing tensions that periodically threaten a military confrontation. Coming ahead of the UN General Assembly this week, President Joe Biden and Iranian hardliner President Ebrahim Raisi will both speak out their views and intentions. Political observers feel that the prisoner swap between US and Iran could heighten tensions in the US presidential race, USA Today said. Republicans especially presidential hopefuls such as Trump, Nikki Haley, Vivek Ramaswamy and others have attacked the Biden administration's decision on the prisoner exchange, dubbing it as a "Ransom Pay-out" to a country that sponsors terrorism. The exchange set free five Americans accused of being spies or working on behalf of the US government in Iran. The UN described their detentions as "arbitrary". The White House rejected allegations that they were spies as false. A senior Biden administration official confirmed that two family members were also on the plane leaving Iran for Qatar and then on to the US. Three of the five Americans, all dual US-Iran citizens, are Siamak Namazi, Emad Sharghi and Morad Tahbaz. The identities of the two other Americans have not been disclosed. A senior Biden administration official said those two Americans wish to keep their identities private. Also on the plane are Namazi's mother and Tahbaz's wife, both of whom were previously unable to leave Iran. Businessman Namazi, 51, was arrested in 2015 while visiting his family in Tehran. Sharghi, 59, was detained in 2018 a year after moving to Iran from the US to work for a tech investment company. Environmentalist Tahbaz, 67, who also holds a British passport, was arrested in 2018 while working on a conservation project in Iran, USA Today reported. Two of the five Iranians freed now had been convicted of non-violent crimes while three others were awaiting trial and had not been convicted, two senior Biden administration officials said. The five Americans were moved from prison to house arrest in an Iranian hotel in an interim step towards their release last month. US President Biden negotiated the tough deal after months of indirect negotiations between US and Iranian officials. The deal led to the US also releasing $6 billion in frozen Iranian oil revenues, transferred from banks in South Korea to Qatar, an energy-rich nation on the Arabian Peninsula that is an ally of both nations. The US and Iran don't enjoy any formal diplomatic relations. The funds released come with a rider that they be used for humanitarian purposes only, media reports said. The Biden administration official stated the US government will be ordering new sanctions against Iran's ministry of intelligence and its former president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, under the Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act. The act is meant to stall wrongful detentions. The measure became a law in late 2020. Levinson, a former FBI agent, disappeared during a visit to an Iranian island in 2007, media reports said. The US has been freezing Iran's assets even as it kept increasing the economic sanctions ever since President Donald Trump pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers in 2018. That deal aimed to curb Iran's nuclear activities as the western nations suspected ambitions of Iran to become a nuclear power , which Iran has constantly denied. "If Iran tries to divert the funds or use them for anything other than a limited humanitarian purpose authorized, the Biden administration "will take action to lock up the funds," the official said. A US official who wished to remain anonymous rebutted Republican criticism that the releasing of Iran's oil revenues was a ransom payout to a rogue nation saying the monies donat come from US taxpayers. Oversight of how the money is used will be provided by the US Treasury, Qatar and aid organisations. However, Iran's foreign ministry and state media have also appeared to claim that the unfrozen funds in Qatar would be under Tehran's direct and unrestricted control. "Humanitarian means whatever the Iranian people need. So, this money will be budgeted for those needs, and the needs of the Iranian people will be decided and determined by the Iranian government," Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi said in a recent interview with NBC News. Ukraine files a lawsuit with the World Trade Organization (WTO) against Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia. The reason is the refusal to lift the ban on imports of Ukrainian agricultural products. In response, these three countries announced that they would stop participating in the Ukrainian grain coordination platform in Brussels. In addition, Ukraine may have to file a lawsuit against Romania, which also decided to extend the embargo for 30 days. ADVERTISIMENT Taras Kachka, Deputy Minister of Economy and Trade Representative of Ukraine, announced the plans to file lawsuits in an interview with Politico. "It is important to prove that these actions are legally wrong. That's why tomorrow we will start lawsuits," he said. Kachka added that Ukraine is also preparing to retaliate against the export of Polish fruits and vegetables. The state will sue Poland, Hungary and Slovakia in the WTO, not through its own trade agreement with the EU (European Union). As a reminder, these 3 countries opposed the European Commission's decision to allow the sale of Ukrainian grain in the EU on September 15. Poland, Hungary and Slovakia have announced that they will impose their own bans on Ukrainian grain exports following the European Commission's decision. "In our eyes, these measures by Hungary and Poland are a statement of complete distrust of the European Commission," the trade representative emphasized. He emphasized that the disobedience of these countries to the EU was not only an internal matter of the bloc, but also caused what he called "the biggest systemic concern" - whether international trading partners can trust what Brussels says on behalf of the EU. ADVERTISIMENT As OBOZREVATEL previously reported, Kachka said that the Polish government's actions regarding Ukrainian grain are wrong, unlawful and harmful to Polish, Ukrainian and all EU farmers. In fact, the neighboring country is trying to block the access of the Ukrainian agro-industrial complex to the European market for a long time. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Bhopal, Sep 19 : An passenger on IndiGo's Jabalpur-New Delhi flight on Monday allegedly suffered cardiac arrest and died onboard, officials said. The incident occurred soon after the flight took off and it had to make an emergency landing back in Jabalpur. As per the information, the deceased passenger has been identified as Rajendra Franquelin. He had suffered the heart attack as soon as the flight took off. After being informed about the incident, the flight returned to Jabalpur. A team of local area police reached the spot, took custody of the body, and sent it for post-mortem examination. Further investigation was underway, police said. Ahmedabad, Sep 19 : Gujarat unit Congress president and Rajya Sabha member, Shaktisinh Gohil, launched an attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led state government in Gujarat on Monday, holding them responsible for the flood situation in the low-lying areas of Bharuch district. The crux of the controversy lies in the massive release of water from the Sardar Sarovar Dam on the Narmada River, which Gohil claims led to the devastating flooding. According to Gohil, over 17 lakh cusecs of water were discharged from the Narmada Dam in Bharuch on a single day, totaling a staggering 18.2 lakh cusecs, causing severe water-logging in the region. Buildings were submerged up to the second floor, farms were destroyed, and losses were significant. Gohil did not mince words, stating: "All this happened because September 17 is the Prime Minister's birthday. To mark the occasion, the dam was filled, and the Chief Minister performed a pooja (ritual)." "The turbines were kept idle. Had the water been released gradually, this disaster could have been avoided, sparing people from immense suffering." He went on to express his doubts about whether even the Prime Minister was aware of these actions, emphasising that such gimmicks should not endanger people's lives and urging the BJP government to exercise more caution in the future. In response to these allegations, Cabinet Minister Rushikesh Patel countered Gohil's claims, stating that the water release from a dam in Madhya Pradesh exceeded the stipulated levels and coincided with heavy rainfall due to a low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal. This resulted in a surge of water along the route from the Madhya Pradesh dam to the Sardar Sarovar dam in Gujarat. Patel clarified that the water release from the Omkareshwar dam in Madhya Pradesh had been increased from 68,000 cusecs to 4.53 lakh cusecs at 3 a.m. After moving for 8 to 12 hours, the water reached the Sardar Sarovar Dam, where additional rainwater added to the already substantial inflow. This resulted in a flood inflow of 5.31 lakh cusecs, which reached a peak of 22 lakh cusecs at midnight. Patna, Sep 19 : Amid politics of 'teeka' in Bihar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar playfully bumped together the heads of minister Ashok Chaudhary and a journalist, both of whom were sporting the sacred mark on their foreheads. The politics of 'teeka' rose in Bihar after RJD state President Jagadanand Singh recently claimed that the country became slave due to those who put 'teekas' on their forehead. On Monday, Nitish Kumar, his deputy Tejashwi Yadav, Finance Minister Vijay Chaudhary, Building Construction Minister Ashok Chaudhary and others were in an event to celebrate the birth anniversary of former Mauritius PM Shivsagar Ramgulam at his statue at Gandhi Maidan, when the tika-sporting journalist posed a question to the CM. Nitish Kumar, who promptly replied, also said that Ashok Chaudhary was also a big priest. He then put his hand on his neck and asked him to bump his head with that of the journalist. Everyone was smiling when Nitish Kumar bumped together the heads of the minister and the journalist. Sources have said that the act of Nitish Kumar is a symbolic signal of his stand on religion. He also want to give a message to the BJP that whatever its leaders create confusion, his stand is clear on caste and religions. Ashok Chaudhary is a devout believer and regularly performs prayers and often visits temples. He recently went to Ujjain Mahakal temple. Aizawl, Sep 18 : Assam Rifles troopers on Monday seized 10 kg of Methamphetamine tablets valued at Rs 30 crore from Mizoram's Champhai district, bordering Myanmar. Acting on a tip-off, Assam Rifles personnel conducted a raid in the Zokawthar area and apprehended a Myanmarese national after seizing Methamphetamine tablets from his possession, defence sources said. The drug peddler, who smuggled in the contraband from Myanmar, was handed over to Zokhawthar police station for further legal proceedings. The drug is a potent central nervous system stimulant that is mainly used as a recreational drug. New Delhi, Sep 19 : Delhi Lt Governor (L-G) on Monday lauded the efforts of Delhi Police in ensuring a fool-proof security and proper law & order arrangement during the G-20 Summit. The L-G praised the Department while participating in a programme which was organised by Delhi Police. The L-G participated to encourage and motivate the security personnel. The L-G appreciated the professionalism of Delhi Police in the conduct of the arrangement. He further acknowledged the sincerity and dedication with which every personnel performed duties despite rain and long duty hours. The L-G exhorted and encouraged the staff to work with the same zeal and enthusiasm and keep up the good work being done by the Delhi Police. Underlining that the entire strength of Delhi Police worked in tandem to maintain law & order, manage traffic, handled sensitive areas, even as they provided flawless arrangements to the visiting heads of states and heads of governments, Saxena emphasised that the same was achieved without causing much inconvenience to the common residents and commuters of the city. Gurugram, Sep 19 : One person has been arrested for allegedly robbing a Delhi Police constable at gun-point on the SPR Road here on September 9, the police said on Monday. The suspect has been identified as Mahesh a.k.a. Mundi, a resident of Rewari. He was arrested by the Gurugram police on Sunday from Rewari district. According to the police, the incident took place on September 9 when Rajkumar (32) posted at Pul Prahladpur police station, was returning from Mahendragarh to Delhi to attend his night duty for the G-20 summit. The constable in his complaint stated that when he reached SPR road at around 11 p.m., a white Swift car overtook and stopped in front of his vehicle. Two masked miscreants came out of the car with weapons and one of them put a pistol on the windshield of the car and the other on him, the victim told the police. Later, they robbed the Constable's car, Delhi Police uniform, wallet containing Rs 5,000, an ID card and driving licence which were kept in the car. In connection with the incident, a case was registered against two unidentified persons at Kherki Daula police station on September 10. During questioning, the suspect disclosed that, in 2014 two persons had killed his brother at his village in Rewari. To take revenge for his brother's murder, he along with his other associates had planned to rob the car to execute the killing. "The suspect has confessed to his crime. Six cases of different types, including the NDPS, were registered against him in Gurugram and Rewari districts. The accused will be taken on police remand to know about the whereabouts of his companion. The robbed car has been recovered from him," Varun Dahiya, ACP (crime) said. New Delhi, Sep 19 : Two notorious criminals, who after committing snatching lodged an FIR of scooty theft to dodge the police, were arrested in north Delhi, an official said on Monday. The accused were identified as Sumer a.k.a Janulabideen (25) and Saddam a.k.a. Rizwan (22), both residents of Bara Hindu Rao. The complainant, Goni Shah (35), a resident of Mehta Road, Amritsar, Punjab stated that on September 15 at about 6.30 a.m., two persons came on a scooty and snatched his mobile phone at Lala Hardev Sahai Marg, ISBT, Kashmere Gate. A case was registered at Kashmere Gate police station and an investigation was taken up. During the investigation, the police team conducted a technical examination and reviewed approximately 30 CCTV cameras installed in the vicinity to search for any clues about the culprits. "They subsequently obtained information and narrowed down specific footage. Based on this, a scooty was identified, and two snatchers were spotted in the footage. Following this, the ownership of the alleged scooty was traced, and it was registered in the name of a woman," said the Deputy Commissioner of Police (north) Sagar Singh Kalsi. "With the diligent efforts of the team and the obtained information, the address was located. Consequently, a raid was conducted, leading to the apprehension of Saddam," said the DCP. On questioning, Saddam confessed to his involvement in the recent snatching case of a mobile phone from the victim, along with his associate Sumer. "He further revealed that they had committed numerous similar crimes in the area," said the DCP. Sumer was also apprehended, and the stolen phone was recovered from his possession. "Upon further inquiry and verification regarding the Scooty used in the commission of the crime, Saddam disclosed that immediately after the mobile phone snatching, Sumer advised him to file an FIR reporting the theft of the scooty used in the crime. This was an attempt to avoid arrest by the police and misled them," said the DCP. "As a result, Saddam approached his mother and deceived her, leading her to file an online e-FIR on the same day, falsely reporting the theft of her scooty from the Bara Hindu Rao area," said the DCP. Upon continued questioning, it was also discovered that Sumer is a habitual and desperate criminal with a history of involvement in 14 criminal cases, including robbery, snatching, theft, and arms-related charges, registered in different police stations in Delhi. "He is an active BC (Bad Character) of Sadar Bazar police station, who was released from jail last year and resumed criminal activities, often involving inexperienced individuals in criminal endeavours to support a lavish lifestyle," said the DCP. "In contrast, Saddam is a budding criminal who was found to be involved in a snatching case registered at Sadar Bazar police station," the DCP added. Ottawa, Sep 19 : Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has reportedly said that the country's security agencies have "reason to believe" that agents "linked to the Indian government" carried out the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia on June 18. Nijjar, a Canadian citizen, was accused of leading a militant separatist group. "Canada's national security apparatus has reason to believe that agents of the Indian government carried out the killing of this Canadian citizen, who also served as the president of Surrey's Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara," Trudeau was quoted as saying by CBC News. "Canadian security agencies have been actively pursuing credible allegations of a potential link between agents of the Government of India and the killing of a Canadian citizen, Hardeep Singh Nijjar," Trudeau said Monday. "Any involvement of a foreign government in the killing of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil is an unacceptable violation of our sovereignty. It is contrary to the fundamental rules by which free, open, and democratic societies conduct themselves," he said. "As you would expect, we have been working closely and coordinating with our allies on this very serious matter." Trudeau urged the Indian government to participate in the ongoing investigation and "cooperate with Canada to get to the bottom of this matter." Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly said that she has ordered the expulsion of "a senior Indian diplomat". "My expectations are clear. I expect India to fully collaborate with us and get to the bottom of this," Joly said. Trudeau said he raised the matter with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi last week at the G20 summit in New Delhi. Canada will contribute approximately $24.5 million (33 million Canadian dollars) to the UK-led international partnership to procure air defense systems for Ukraine. This contribution is part of the $500 million in military aid to Kyiv that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced in June. ADVERTISIMENT According to The Guardian, Bill Blair, Canada's defense minister, announced the funds for Ukraine to help it defend itself against Russian missiles and drones on September 17. The aforementioned community also includes the United States, the Netherlands, and Denmark. These states have set as their goal the purchase of short- and medium-range air defense systems, as well as other equipment and machinery necessary to counter enemy missiles and UAVs. The journalists noted that Canada is home to one of the world's largest Ukrainian diasporas. Since the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, Ottawa has provided Kyiv with more than 8 billion Canadian dollars in aid (including about 1.8 billion in military aid). As OBOZREVATEL previously reported, the new Ambassador of Canada to Ukraine, Natalie Tsmots, arrived in Kyiv in August 2023. She said that she would continue to work to support the state as part of her mission. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information on our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! The private equity firm KKR has completed its sale of audiobook publisher RBmedia. In July, KKR said that it had reached an agreement to sell the company to the investment firm H.I.G. Capital for what the Wall Street Journal reported to be more than $1 billion. The announcement of the closing of the transaction was accompanied by the news that H.I.G. joined with Francisco Partners, a leading global investment firm specializing in technology and media-focused businesses, to finalize the deal. With this investment, H.I.G. and Francisco Partners, the announcement said, will support RBmedia in the continued growth of the companys vast catalog of spoken content and powerful distribution network that reaches millions of global listeners. Francisco Partners has a growing presence in the wider book publishing market. In 2021, it acquired both Vital Source, from Ingram Content Group, and Follett School Solutions, from the Follett Corp. We are excited to partner with H.I.G. to help usher in RBmedias next phase of growth as the audiobook industry continues to expand, Matt Spetzler, partner and co-head of Europe at Francisco Partners, and Jason Brein, partner at Francisco Partners, in a joint statement. Francisco Partners has extensive experience in audio and content publishing, technology and media and we believe audiobooks are at a positive inflection point. RBmedia has more than 66,000 audiobook titles and more than 300 employees. While KKR owned the publisher, RBmedia had five year of double-digit revenue growth, the private equity firm said. Bertelsmann has removed the interim tag from Nihar Malaviya, who was named to head the global operations of Penguin Random House following the departure of Markus Dohle at the end of 2022. At the time, Malaviya was appointed interim CEO for PRHs worldwide businesses, though it has long been expected that he would be officially named CEO. In making the announcement, Bertelsmann chairman and CEO Thomas Rabe called Malaviya the right leader for the publisher at the right time. Rabe said that as interim CEO, Malaviya has set an important strategic course. Most importantly, he has transformed the structures at Penguin Random House so that the publishers and publishing groups can work more creatively and entrepreneurially. Indeed, PRHs U.S. division, by far the publishers largest, has undergone a wholesale transformation. In February, Malaviya split the Random House Publishing Group back up into two groups, recreating the Crown Publishing Group, while also creating a management group to oversee PRH US, rather than naming a new CEO to replace the departing Madeline McIntosh. This spring, PRH initiated a voluntary separation offer (VSO) program, which spurred many of the companys best-known editors, publishers, and other executives to leave the company by the end of the this year. Those changes in turn have led to more reorganizations within different imprints, promoting people to new roles. Malaviya joined what was then Random House in 2003. In 2014, he was named president and COO of PRH, during which time, Bertelsmann said, he spearheaded the creation of a variety of industry-first capabilities in data science, supply chain, technology, and consumer insights. Since being named interim CEO, Malaviya has served on Bertelsmanns Group Management Committee, a body of executives that advises the executive board. Malaviya is also on the board of the Association of American Publishers and Yale University Press. In eastern Ukraine, Russian troops use a fairly powerful deeply echeloned defense, but it is not insurmountable. With the right equipment, planning, and tactics, these barriers can be overcome, and if the enemy has at least one weakness, a hole can be made in their front. ADVERTISIMENT On September 17, Ilya Yevlash, the head of the press service of the Eastern Military Group, spoke about this during a telethon. In particular, he noted that in the Bakhmut sector, the enemy's defense lines are less equipped, as the fighting has been going on since winter and there was no time for such constructions. In other areas, particularly in the Liman-Kupyansk sector, the enemy's defense is quite strong. "There are engineering barriers and barbed wire about 20 meters from the trench on the first line. In front of it, a kilometer and a half away, there are minefields, including anti-tank and anti-personnel mines. After it, there is an anti-tank ditch up to 2.5 meters deep and 3 meters wide," said the spokesman for the Eastern military group. ADVERTISIMENT Ilya Yevlash added that another minefield is being installed behind the tank ditch. The first line consists of various types of engineering obstacles - anti-tank hedgehogs and dragon's teeth. "They are quite echeloned, but they are not insurmountable. With the right use of various demining machines, we can make passages and overcome these barriers. The main thing is the right tactics and planning," said Yevlash. According to him, our intelligence should not be underestimated either. After all, if the occupiers have at least one weak point, we can make a hole in their front. ADVERTISIMENT As reported by OBOZREVATEL: - British intelligence noted that the Russian army is trying to strengthen its defense near the temporarily occupied Tokmak, which is located 16 km from the current front line. To do this, the enemy is deploying additional checkpoints. - Ilya Yevlash also said that the enemy slowed down the offensive in the Kupyansk sector. According to him, the Ukrainian Armed Forces kicked the occupants in the teeth near Novoyehorivka. Only verified information on our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Delivered via Eutelsats HOTBIRD satellites, at 13 East, the global AVOD and FAST channel programmer and distributor will add a lineup of 30 FAST channels, including its own proprietary FAST channels, wedo movies, wedo big stories and wedo sports.The client-centric, technology-agnostic approach, using satellite distribution to deliver internet content, enables wedotv to extend the reach of their FAST native content to audiences in hard-to-reach areas beyond terrestrial networks. wedotv regards Hotbird satellites as the reference video neighbourhood for audiences in Italy.Viewers with a connected TV will be also able to watch the AVOD content through wedotv via an HbbTV app, which is accessible via an embedded link. This will enable viewers to switch between the linear channel and streaming content.Through our partnership with Eutelsat , we are forging new territory in the distribution of FAST channels; expanding the reach of OTT-delivered services to traditional distribution platforms via HbbTV technology and further blurring the lines of the notion of linear TV, said wedotv CEO Philipp Rotermund. Ultimately, wedotvs goal is to provide a seamless and convenient viewing experience for its consumers, wherever they are located, and this is yet another step toward doing just that.Laurence Delpy, general manager of Eutelsats video business unit added: We are delighted to welcome wedotv, our first FAST channel platform, to our flagship Hotbird video neighbourhood. The launch of wedotv on Hotbird highlights the relevance of satellite to bring new types of content to audiences wherever they are located. By expanding their strategy and including satellite distribution in their business model, wedotv can now reach audiences in homes beyond terrestrial networks, with a cost-effective, sustainable and high-quality video distribution solution. Property details: Offered is one 1.25 Acre Lot in Polk County, Central Florida near Commonwealth Ave. You will own the property and will receive a recorded deed from Polk County Clerk of Courts. You can hold the property as an investment with low annual taxes (about $8 annually) or flip for a profit. Listed at $1 Start, No Reserve, Sells Regardless of Price! Lot Legal Description: The West 330 Ft of the East 1320 Ft of the South 165 Ft of the North 1515 Ft of Section 9, Township 26 South, Range 25 East, Polk Coun... Price: $ 1,625 Seller State of Residence: Nevada Property Address: East of Commonwealth Ave Type: Recreational, Acreage Zip/Postal Code: 33868 Zoning: Rural Acreage City: Polk City State/Province: Florida Location: 338**, Polk City, Florida You will be redirected to eBay Nearby Florida Property details: INVESTMENT PROPERTYLUNA COUNTY, NEW MEXICOI own a nice 1/2 acre lot in Deming, Luna County, New Mexico with close access to Interstate 10. This land is in an excellent location near Las Cruces, NM and El Paso, TX. Tucson, Arizona is a 3-hour drive west on I-10. This area is right near Hatch, NM. The Hatch Chili Pepper is a staple of New Mexican cuisine. Red or green - you know if you know.TERMSI am selling the lot for $2,450. The bid amount will be added to this figure. There is no minimum, whic... Price: $ 5 Seller State of Residence: Illinois Type: Homesite, Lot Zip/Postal Code: 88030 Zoning: Residential City: Sun Valley State/Province: New Mexico Location: 880**, Deming, New Mexico You will be redirected to eBay Nearby New Mexico A signed work made by the artist Bob Ross for the first episode of his popular show The Joy of Painting has hit the market with a staggering list price of more than $9.8 million. ADVERTISEMENT The 24"x 18" oil on canvas painting, titled A Walk in the Woods, was created in 1983 at the start of the artist's televised career and is being sold by Modern Artifact in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The painting was described by Modern Artifact as the "most historically significant Bob Ross original painting ever created." "I think each of us at some point during our life has wanted to paint a picture," Ross says at the start of the episode. "I think there is an artist hidden in the bottom of every single one of us. Here we will try to show you how to bring that artist out." Ross, who developed an interest in painting after attending an art class during his 20-year career with the U.S. Air Force, died in 1995 at the age of 52. His instructional painting show, which aired from 1983 to 1994, was so beloved that he gained widespread popularity after his death, aided by the Internet. The show has been celebrated for Ross' soothing voice, cheerful demeanor and encouraging approach to teaching people how to paint serene natural landscapes, primarily using the wet-on-wet oil painting technique. He often used phrases like "happy little trees" and "happy accidents" to describe the unplanned but beautiful moments that could occur in the process of painting. FOLLOW REALITY TV WORLD ON THE ALL-NEW GOOGLE NEWS! Reality TV World is now available on the all-new Google News app and website. Click here to visit our Google News page, and then click FOLLOW to add us as a news source! "It is exceedingly rare to find any Bob Ross episode pieces, and this is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to own the very first one," the gallery said in its listing. "Although Bob Ross paintings have become highly sought after by collectors, the market is still emerging." In describing the provenance of the piece, the gallery said the painting has only had one owner -- a person who was there at the time Ross painted the piece. "It was difficult to define Bob Ross' style in terms of contemporary art. It was closest to Pop Art, due to his celebrity status and the concept in which it was created," the gallery said. "Except for the early gold pans he distributed while stationed in Alaska, he never really sold his works." Photos by Kenda Lenseigne We might as well get this out of the way. The original Strasser RS14 straight pull is our favorite hunting rifle due to its versatility, accuracy, and overall build quality. But its not without drawbacks, notably its cost and lack of aftermarket support. The tiny Austrian company has attempted to address these shortcomings by taking technology embodied in their flagship rifle and blending it with the most popular bolt gun in production, the Remington 700. To our knowledge, this is the first time anyone has managed to achieve this, and when we first heard of it, we were concerned that the end result might turn out to be like Frankensteins monster, cobbled together out of scraps and showing obvious seams where the two Austrian and American icons were smashed into each other. Strasser RS 14 It turns out, we were wrong. The resulting marriage is very high class kinda like that of those other two Austrian and American superstars, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Schriver. Before he started banging the help. NUTS AND BOLTS The Remington 700 action was originally designed to be cheap and easy to manufacture, being machined out of a piece of round bar stock. By luck rather than good judgment, it turned out to be capable of very good accuracy, once it was tuned up and trued by a competent gunsmith and any warping caused by heat treatment taken care of. Four years after its introduction in 1962, the Marine Corps adopted it as the M40 sniper rifle, and every man and his dog started using R700 actions for precision builds, leading to the explosion of aftermarket chassis, magazines, triggers, scope mounts, and barrels we see today. The Strasser RS 700 taps into this vast support network, as almost any accessory you can think of is compatible with their extremely slick, impressively fast, straight-pull action. The company is introducing both a complete rifle to the U.S. market, as well as barreled actions for those who want to build something to their specifications. Were the first U.S. media outlet to get hands-on with both. THE RIFLE Designed to meet the expectations of the American consumer, the RS700 rifle is equipped with a medium sporter profile barrel, which matches the original Remington magnum tubes contour not Kate Moss skinny, so theres some mass to resist stringing after a couple of shots. Barrels are sourced from Lothar Walther, Europes premier maker, and machined to Strassers spec so we were curious to find out how theyd group with American calibers. The muzzle is threaded to accept a suppressor or brake, which dictates how thin this area can be made and still form an acceptable shoulder. Unfortunately, the thread pattern is metric, which limits the number of cans thatll bolt up directly, but Strasser does offer thread adapters to convert it to 5/824, and Dead Airs Xeno mount has an M14 option. The RS700 rifle ships with a three-round, flush-fit magazine, but any AICS mag will work. According to Strasser USA, the magazine release on production rifles will lose the protruding wings. The manufacturer strongly recommends against taking apart the bolt, so naturally we did just that. And what we found was a work of art. A key feature the RS14 incorporates into its design is rare in the straight-pull world, and its carried over into the new rifle. Primary extraction is one of those things you dont really need until you do, and then you really need it. In most bolt guns, breaking the fired case free of the chamber walls is achieved by a cam path at the rear of the receiver, which acts on the root of the bolt handle to give the bolt a very short but powerful nudge rearward. In the case of the RS700, this is done by an extension of the bolt handle acting on a plunger inside the bolt shroud, which shoves against the left side of the receiver. When the bolts in battery, its completely hidden until needed. As well as providing primary extraction, when the bolt handle is drawn to the rear it retracts four identical-locking lugs in the bolt head. These engage a recess in the receiver wall to provide a strong, self-centering lockup. According to CEO, Matthias Strasser, the action strength is probably overkill for most cartridges. We had the proof house in Vienna test the RS700 action with only one locking lug present, and it withstood the pressure generated by three 308 proof loads. The Timney HIT is one of our favorite 700 pattern triggers and like others will drop into the RS700 action. Note that pins are tight, so use grease. Needless to say, anyone who manages to reassemble their rifle in this configuration probably shouldnt reproduce, but its reassuring, nonetheless. In order to idiot-proof the action and prevent the end user from assembling the rifle without any locking lugs at all, theres a spring-loaded lever in the receiver wall that prevents the bolt entering in this condition. The four locking lugs are pressed outward by a long sleeve over the firing pin. In the event of an overpressure situation leading to a pierced primer, theres a chance of gases flowing into the bolt through the firing pin hole and pushing back on the locking sleeve, with an even smaller chance of this moving sufficiently to retract the lugs. To prevent this remote eventuality, an independent locking block in the bolt shroud swings into place when the bolts in battery, completely blocking the locking sleeve. In the event of a massive amount of gas entering the action, say from a case head separation, most of it will take the path of least resistance and blow out of the two identical ejection ports, channeled by the bolt contours. The RS700 bolt is a masterpiece. Its four identical locking lugs are made of hardened tool steel and offer greater surface area than a Mauser 98. Note channel for massive bolt stop. The remainder will exit through the magwell, with anything making it past these areas being stopped by the bolt shroud. Having had an impromptu face tat courtesy of blowing up a case in a Ruger action, were kinda big on catastrophic handling of propellant gases. Because 99.99 percent of Remington 700 actions arent straight pull, and as a consequence need a place to accommodate the vertical component of their bolt throw, this begs the question of what to do with the bolt handle slot in all the stocks and chassis systems out there. In a stroke of genius, the companys engineers used this location for the bolt stop, which is both massive and easy to access. We recognize that straight-pull actions invite the user to slam them back and forth, Strasser said. So, we designed the bolt stop to hold up to hard use. Challenge accepted. We naturally tried to break it by running the bolt as fast and as violently as we could, but during testing it held up just fine. In case you were wondering, the RS700 rifles stock is hand-laid carbon fiber, with a fairly vertical pistol grip, hand-painted camo finish and for those who regularly use bipods, an attached Picatinny rail on the forend. Comb height is well-suited to scopes with a 40mm and above objective lens, and it accepts AICS pattern magazines, with MDTs three-round, polymer, flush-fit mag shipping with the rifle. Scope mounting is taken care of with the included one-piece Pic rail, which is proprietary to this design due to different spacing between the front and rear mounting holes. Remington 700 two-piece scope mounts fit without issue, as do lightweight, direct-mount rings such as Talleys offerings. BARRELED ACTION Available in .308 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, and 6.5PRC, the RS700 barreled action allows users to configure the rifle the way they want it, within certain parameters. Those of us who just cant leave well enough alone and want the freedom to twist up their own barrels are going to be disappointed that stripped actions arent currently available, but were assured that option will become a reality in the not-too-distant future. As things stand, barrels are headspaced using a Remage barrel nut, meaning you can mess with swapping in different calibers and barrel configurations at home, so long as you have a barrel and action vise, along with the correct headspace gauges. Were told that shouldered pre-fit barrels will also headspace correctly, but due to the Strassers fat bolt design, both systems require the corresponding barrel recess to be opened up by 80 thousandths of an inch. While this is currently a 10-minute job for anyone with a lathe, there should soon be aftermarket barrel makers offering these as off-the-shelf items. In the meantime, were looking forward to seeing the first one done with a Dremel you know its going to happen. An additional benefit to anyone wanting a one-gun solution can be found in the bolt head. Like the RS14, the RSS700 can accommodate multiple cartridge families by simply swapping out bolt heads, enabling the user to go from a 0.378-inch case head, all the way up to magnum case head diameter. You could train with 0.223, then screw in a 6.5 PRC barrel and go hammer out to a mile with the same gun. The RS700 action can be configured according to the needs of left- and right-handed shooters, by simply unscrewing the bolt stop and swapping sides. Left-handed bolts are available from the manufacturer, so this throws up the intriguing possibility of a right-handed shooter keeping their master hand on the pistol grip and operating the trigger while they run the bolt with their left. While we havent actually done this, we have to believe that with a heavy gun on a bipod chambered in a low recoiling cartridge, its got to be very fast. Maybe its time to try and break the record for the Mad Minute. In keeping with the design intent of the heavy-barreled test unit we were sent, we dropped it into an MDT ACC Elite chassis. This necessitated tweaking the magazine catch, as the RS700 bolt requires the mag to sit about 1mm lower. Not a problem in this case, since it just needed a couple of turns on the adjustment screws; in other less sophisticated systems, you may need to do some grinding. Leupolds excellent-but-discontinued Mk8 x-2550 was added to the 20 MOA one-piece base. We also swapped out the included Timney trigger for their HIT model, after removing the superfluous Remington bolt stop. While the supplied unit is an excellent trigger in its own right, we wanted to be able to adjust it down below 2 pounds, which the HIT allows. ROUNDS DOWNRANGE Right off the bat, the RS700 showed a hint of what it was capable of. Without any barrel break-in voodoo, it started stacking bullets on top of each other. After zeroing at 100 yards, my spotter for the evening, a former USMC Scout Sniper strapped a Magnetospeed to the barrel, and we took some velocity readings using Norma 143-grain Golden Target loads. With the chrono in place, the RS700 turned in 0.3-inch groups and surprisingly exceeded the usually optimistic data printed on the ammo box 2,735 fps average velocity. Banging steel was hilariously easy, all the way out to the furthest target available, some 1,080 yards distant, and due to the speed of the straight-pull action, it was possible to get a second round in the air before the first had impacted the target. Note bolt stop lurking in bolt handle slot. Were looking forward to seeing what this combo can do in a competitive setting. Certainly, it can group as well as any factory rifle out there, and the straight-pull action should offer advantages when it comes to multiple target engagements. Were also intrigued by the potential of building a single rifle to meet every need, using multiple calibers and swapping in barrels and bolt heads as required, relying on the vast quantity of R700 aftermarket parts to tailor the gun to the job at hand. Which gives us an idea for another article watch this space. Thumb rest allows adequate clearance for rapid bolt manipulation. Cocking indicator protrudes from the rear of the bolt shroud. Strasser USA RS700 Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win, 6.5 PRC Capacity: 3 to 10 rounds Barrel Length: 22 to 26 inches Overall Length: 46 inches Weight: 14.1 pounds (as configured) MSRP: N/A at press time As Configured: Leupold Mk8 3.5-2556: N/A MDT ACC Elite Chassis: $1,600 Atlas Bipod: $280 Timney HIT trigger: $245 Ukraine will not hold a parade in Moscow in honor of the end of a full-scale war. However, Russia should not expect to hold its own parade in Kyiv either. ADVERTISIMENT This statement was made by Kyrylo Budanov, the head of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, in an interview with The Economist recorded in Kyiv. The 37-year-old military officer believes that the Russian Federation will not surrender of its own accord. The lieutenant general said that war is important for the aggressor country, it has been a constant for it throughout its history. "We understand that we will not end the war with a victory parade in Moscow. But Moscow should not hope to ever hold such a meeting in Kyiv," the Chief of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine said. He emphasized that there can be no discussion of a ceasefire or truce on the aggressor's terms. Commenting on the continuation of the Ukrainian counteroffensive, Budanov noted that despite the slower-than-expected advance, Russia is forced to deploy insufficiently manned reserves to the front line, which it did not plan to deploy until the end of October. ADVERTISIMENT "Contrary to what Russia claims, it has absolutely no strategic reserves," he said. For example, the 25th Combined Arms Army of the Russian Armed Forces, which was formed this year, is now being prematurely deployed to the eastern front in the area of Lyman and Kupyansk. According to the chief of the Main Directorate of Intelligence, the Russian economy will last only until 2025. The aggressor will run out of weapons in 2026, "maybe even earlier," he suggested. "If everything is fine and Russia has enough resources, why are they looking for them all over the world? The answer is obvious. There is nothing more to extract," Budanov commented on Moscow's talks with the DPRK. As OBOZREVATEL previously reported: - Kyrylo Budanov named three main goals of Ukraine during kamikaze drone strikes on the Russian occupiers. One of them is the destruction of enemy air defense systems. ADVERTISIMENT - The head of the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine believes that: The Ukrainian Defense Forces may be able to cut off Russia's land communication with the occupied Crimea before the onset of winter. Only verified information on our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! September was declared as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in 2008, with the week of Sept. 10-16 being dubbed National Suicide Prevention Week. The month is a time in which people raise awareness of suicide, recognize those who have been affected by it and provide necessary resources to those in need. Similar to the Roman Empires position on the global stage, the United States is a contemporary superpower in the world and faces challenges that arent too far from those that Rome experienced. Unlike Rome, however, America still may have time to address them before its too late. A special court in Mumbai on Monday rejected Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal's applications seeking medical checkup by his personal doctor on regular basis and home-cooked food inside prison. IMAGE: Naresh Goyal being taken to the PMLA court in Mumbai. Photograph: ANI video screen grab Special judge MG Desphande, however, allowed his plea seeking appropriate bedding inside jail considering his health condition. Goyal is currently in judicial custody in Arthur Road jail, Mumbai, in a money laundering case linked to an alleged fraud of Rs 538 crore at the Canara Bank. Goyal had moved multiple applications for consultation from a personal specialist doctor, family physician and medical check-up on a daily basis. The special judge rejected his pleas saying the chief medical officer (CMO) of the jail shall check the accused thoroughly everyday and will take immediate steps if any abnormality or urgent health issue is noticed. The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court also rejected his application for home-cooked food. The court said the CMO, from the point of health issues of the accused, will decide and fix jail food suitable for the accused and the prison superintendent shall allow Goyal to avail the same. Goyal had moved another application seeking appropriate bedding facilities on a daily basis contending he had a history of heart disease and had undergone bypass surgery. In his application, Goyal said he was prone to cardiac arrest (heart attack) and that he suffers from diabetes, mellitus, hyperthyroidism, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, among others. The 74-year said he suffers from restricted mobility, severe shoulder impingement and neck pain and stiffness pursuant to his fall in June 2022 and also has spine issues. Considering his ill-health, the court had sought a report from the chief medical officer (CMO) of the prison. The judge said the report clearly indicates that the CMO has thoroughly examined the accused and prescribed him medicines in addition to the ones he is already having. Presently the accused is kept in the jail clinic. However, the CMO shall see which bedding suits the applicant and the jail superintendent may provide the same to the applicant, which will suffice the purpose of this application, the court said. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Goyal on September 1 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) following a long session of questioning at its office in Mumbai. The money laundering case stems from a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) FIR against Jet Airways, Goyal, his wife Anita and some former company executives of the now grounded private airline in connection with an alleged Rs 538-crore fraud case at the Canara Bank. The FIR was registered on the bank's complaint that it had sanctioned credit limits and loans to Jet Airways (India) Ltd to the tune of Rs 848.86 crore, of which Rs 538.62 crore was outstanding. Sridhar Kalyanasundaram, an independent director of private sector lender Dhanlaxmi Bank, has resigned from the board with effect from September 16. Photograph: PTI Photo from the Rediff Archives In his resignation letter, Kalyanasundaram has raised issues like factionalism in the board, his differences regarding rights issue and the alleged lack of in depth banking knowledge in other members. This comes after Ravindran Pillai, head of RP Group, who holds 9.99 per cent stake in the bank (largest shareholder), came out with a special notice for removal of Kalyanasundaram. A resolution in this regard would be passed at the 96th annual general meeting (AGM) to be held on September 30. Neither the bank, nor its chief executive officer (CEO) J K Shivan, responded to questions from Business Standard. There are many instances where despite the value of inputs given, my inputs have been deliberately negated / avoided / overruled by the other members of the board. "It is just to support the belligerent attitude of the MD and CEO. "He is on record (in the vernacular press) that he cares little about shareholders and the directors. "I am not the only director to face his wrath for not towing his line. "Many had left, rendering this board legally inconsistent with required composition, Kalyanasundaram said in his letter. One of the major issues highlighted include 81 queries regarding the banks rights issue on the issue agreement proposed with the issue manager. It is still unresolved, according to him. It is even unresolved today, despite various legal inputs from different quarters, and compromise meetings in June/July, he added. The rights issue of the bank was approved by the board in March 2022, and had to be held up for over nine months since then due to the various issues at the board. He added that his view regarding capital enhancement at the bank was also deliberately stifled by other members. This comes at a time when the AGM is set to take up a proposal to enhance the authorised capital of the bank from Rs 400 crore to Rs 500 crore. It is up for shareholder approval. Another issue raised by him was regarding a shareholder allegation that the MD and CEOs appointment in 2021 was not in order and fraught with discrepancies. The banks management took recourse to referring the matter to a legal counsel (Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, Mumbai) and obtained a legal opinion that pronounced that the allegations of the shareholder had no merit, he added. On September 4, Kalyanasundaram had written to all members of the board that in the event of the bank not referring the matter to the adjudicating authority as advised, he will be constrained to refer the matter himself in his capacity as independent director. Auditors seem to have developed a heightened sense of risk and are not content to tick the boxes and sign the papers. On January 7, 2009, when B Ramalinga Raju resigned as the chief executive officer of Satyam Computer Services after admitting to fraud, he set in motion a series of acts by regulators to clean up corporate governance in India, including the role of top executives and independent directors. Most of all, the incident changed the profession of auditing, which till then was usually described as 'dull' and 'anodyne'. The ripples of Satyam continue to be felt and are perceived to be the reason for many auditor-client separations. More than the number, auditors are exiting big names, which used to be a rarity. Earlier, the auditor used to be like the family doctor that would treat generations, until the regulators stepped in -- in Satyam's aftermath -- to say the audit firm must be rotated every 10 years. Now we have instances of firms not waiting that long. Kindly note the image has only been published for representational purposes. Photograph: Kind courtesy Pexels Data from primeinfobase.com shows a high of 65 instances in 2020-2021, the pandemic year, of auditors exiting before completing their tenure. The number came down as the business environment eased after the pandemic, but there were still at least 46 exits in 2021-22 and 38 in 2022-23. In recent months, Deloitte quit as Adani Ports' auditor. The Big Four firm -- the other three are EY, KPMG, and PwC -- had earlier left as the auditor of Byju's after the edtech company failed to file its annual financial results in time. In the first week of August, PwC resigned as the auditor of Paytm Payments Services Limited. It had also raised discrepancies at GoMechanic, the car services startup. That is not to say there is wrongdoing in these companies. The thing is, auditors seem to have developed a heightened sense of risk and are not content to tick the boxes and sign the papers. "In the post-Satyam scenario, there is often a disconnect between client and auditor expectations. Clients may seek a more lenient audit, focusing on compliance, while auditors are obligated to maintain a rigorous, independent assessment," says Maneet Pal Singh, partner, I P Pasricha & Co, a chartered accountancy firm. Photograph: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters Auditors state four reasons for quitting a client: Significant reduction in fees rendering the audit unfeasible, clients' inability to share information, poor internal control systems that the company makes no effort to fix, and poor reporting of financial statements. Part of the reason could also be shareholder activism. "Today's expectations of users of financial statements go beyond the true and fair view of numbers," says a senior partner at one of the Big Four firms. But quitting is complicated. A statement by the National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) in June put the ball back in the court of auditors. It said quitting audit assignments would not absolve an auditor of its responsibility if fraud was noticed during their tenure at a later stage. The Companies Act requires the auditor to inform the ministry of corporate affairs of the reason for resignation, which in turn must be accepted or rejected by the government. "Auditors have a lot to answer for. When the going is good, they are happy to look the other way," says a senior government official. Photograph: The Late Danish Siddiqui/Reuters The Company Law Committee report said there was a need to review the provisions concerning the resignation of auditors. Borrowing from the UK Company Act, 2006, the committee said: 'The auditor shall be under an explicit obligation to make detailed disclosures before resignation and should specifically mention whether such resignation is due to non-cooperation from the auditee company, fraud or severe non-compliance, or diversion of funds.' Thereafter, the company must either forward such a statement to the shareholders or approach the adjudicatory body for directions for not sending such information. "If the auditor considers it not possible to continue with the audit, they may consider withdrawing. However, this does not do away with their immediate reporting obligations," says Vidisha Krishan, partner at M V Kini, a law firm. The auditing community feels the burden of increased regulatory oversight, user expectations, and media activism. Policymakers, on the other hand, point out that audit standards in India are almost in alignment with international standards. "The presence of an auditor does not preclude a fraud, but it will be too much to say that the auditor has no whiff of it. Telltale signs cannot be missed easily," says the senior government official quoted earlier. That said, regulators might need to temper their zeal. Government sources say that NFRA had initially decided not to allow a lawyer for the auditor. This was however changed. No wonder, finding high-quality talent has become difficult for the auditing profession. A Big Four professional sounds reminiscent while saying: "We became boys to men doing audit. The ability to audit is a statutory one. We are officers of law in a crude term, reporting to the shareholders, not to the board or the management." That sounds neither dull nor anodyne. Feature Presentation: Rajesh Alva/Rediff.com At this poignant historic moment, one can only wish that institutions, which are not built by brick and mortar, but by rich Parliamentary traditions which have stood the test of time, are strengthened by all stakeholders, notes Rup Narayan Das, former joint secretary, Lok Sabha secretariat. IMAGE: A view of the current Parliament building which will cease functioning on September 19, 2023. Photograph: Jitender Gupta/ANI Photo At a time when Parliament is being relocated to the new building from the iconic Parliament House, I am overwhelmed with nostalgia having served the institution for three decades and having witnessed its chequered current history. It was mere destiny that took me to the great institution; there was no aspiration or conscious planning. After my master's degree in political science in 1985 from Delhi University, I joined its sibling Jawaharlal Nehru University for MPhil/PhD. It was just by chance, that I stumbled upon the Lok Sabha secretariat for a career to earn a livelihood. It so happened that once I was passing through Parliament House at lunch time and was feeling hungry; the idea occurred to me that I could enjoy a good thali at a pittance in the Parliament House reception. The watch and ward staff wanted to know the purpose of my visit. I said I wanted an application for the post of research assistant for which I was eminently qualified. That was my first foray into the hallowed building; there was no looking back. I joined the secretariat in September 1985 and was asked to meet then Lok Sabha secretary general Dr Subhash C Kashyap. He was seemingly impressed with me and observed in an official noting that he was looking forward to my promising future in the secretariat. I was posted in the research and information division of the secretariat and was assigned to prepare draft speeches for dignitaries including the honourable Speaker for occasions like the Inter-Parliamentary Union, Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and for the visits of goodwill parliamentary delegations. The first thing that comes to mind is the openness and accessibility to Parliament House during the mid-1980s as contrasted with the fortified and expansive Parliament House complex of today. One couldn't even imagine that there was thoroughfare within the Parliament House complex in 1960s. It is a different matter that vehicular traffic on Delhi's roads was very sparse. Maruti cars had not arrived; the only cars that dotted capital roads were the majestic Ambassador and the Fiat. There was no security check for vehicles entering Parliament House. MPs travelled to Parliament House from their residences in South Avenue and North Avenue and Meena Bagh in DTC vans. DTC used to maintain a counter near the old reception office within Parliament House. It was not Parliament House alone which was accessible, the MPs too were approachable. I remember I once approached Professor Madhu Dandavate, who had just demitted office as railway minister, to sign on a railway requisition slip to book a ticket at the railway booking counter located within the Parliament House complex. Professor Dandavate obliged me instantly. Such humility from a renowned public figure like Madhu Dandavate is a rare thing today. Photograph: Jitender Gupta/ANI Photo Yet another memorable institution in Parliament House was the library, which was located within the precincts of the building before it was relocated to the Parliament Library Building a few years ago. The library was regularly visited by veteran Parliamentarians like Atal Bihari Vajpayee, L K Advani, K R Narayanan, Professor Dandavate, Professor M L Sondhi to name a few. Tables were reserved for them in the adjacent members Reading room. Members used to read the books and journals with rapt attention and prepare notes for their participation in debates in the House. I have seen Vajpayeeji evincing interest in the contents of books displayed at the library counter; the venerable MPs would reserve the books for their reading once the mandatory period of one week of their display ended. The library reading room in the ground floor housed in the erstwhile 'Princes Chamber' used to be where members would come to browse through newspapers and magazines or submit their requests for reference material to be provided by the highly efficient Reference Services located just above the reading room. Dr Manmohan Singh was a regular visitor to the reading room where punlications like The Times, London, The Economist, the Far Eastern Economic Review, the Economic and Political Weekly were displayed. The reading room also displayed regional newspapers and English newspapers published from state capitals. The courteous library staff were always eager to help and assist members and the members were equally respectful to the library staff. IMAGE: President Droupadi Murmu addresses MPs at the Central Hall of the Parliament after taking her oath as former President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra D Modi, then vice president M Venkaiah Naidu, then Chief Justice of India N V Ramana and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla look on. Photograph: Jitender Gupta/ANI Photo What will be conspicuously missing in the new Parliament building is the grandeur of Central Hall, testimony to India's pulsating democracy, where India's first prime minister made his famous Tryst With Destiny speech on the eve of transfer of power, August 14/15, 1947. Central Hall has enabled the President to address members of Parliament, belonging to members of both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha at the commencement of the Lok Sabha after the general election and also at the beginning of the first session of the year, besides the joint sittings of the two Houses, when needed. While the new Parliament House can accommodate members of both the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha, one wonders what will happen to the parliamentary tradition of enabling heads of State and governments to address Parliament. At this poignant historic moment, one can only wish that institutions, which are not built by brick and mortar, but by rich Parliamentary traditions which have stood the test of time, are strengthened by all stakeholders. Dr Rup Narayan Das is a former joint secretary of the Lok Sabha secretariat. Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com 'Switching loyalty from one party to another is completely unfair as it devalues my vote.' Photograph: Harish Kotian/ Rediff.com IMAGE: A family takes a selfie after casting their vote in this year's Karnataka assembly elections. Kindly note the photograph has been published only for representational reasons. Are you as a voter sick of Aayaram Gayaram type politics? Do you feel cheated if the MLA you voted for switched political alliance or party after getting elected? If yes, then you are one of the voters like Meenakshi Menon, media and marketing professional and a founder trustee of the NGO Vanshakti. Menon has filed a Public Interest Litigation in the Bombay high court seeking that a paragraph providing for the 'split and merger' of political parties in the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, which deals with defections and splits, be declared as illegal, ultra vires and in contravention of its basic structure. Her argument is that this provision is used by politicians for group defections, and voters are betrayed by such acts. In an interview to Syed Firdaus Ashraf/Rediff.com, Menon reveals why she went to court and why as a voter she feels cheated when MLAs join hands with rival parties against whom they contested elections. "Every year I have voted, be it municipal election, assembly election or for that matter national election. I tell myself now I should not have gone out and voted. so maybe I would have saved a lot of my time. It was not worth it." Your petition has come at a time when a lot of voters have started feeling that they are being taken for granted as politicians keep shifting loyalties and parties after they get elected. How can the recourse to courts help? We are hopeful that courts will take cognisance of the fact that ultimately the voter also has rights. What we are trying to establish is that voters' rights need to get recognised because as voters we vote for a particular member of a party. We vote for an individual, politician, a party and its manifesto, that is, a combination of all these three factors. We as voters want this franchise to be respected because we are a democracy. Our prime minister says we are the mother of all democracies, then it is important for us to work within democratic principles of voters having the last say. Currently what is happening is that when people are able to switch parties, they switch parties on the basis of which the voters have cast votes. The voter is not asked for his or her opinion before an MLA or MP shifts loyalties from his party to another party. They don't ask voters, is it okay for them to dump their party? Are they okay with dumping the manifesto which they felt was important to elect him? What is the kind of solution you are thinking of? There are two things here, and the first is that the solution must be a practical solution. There is no point in me giving solutions which can be impractical. There are three stages to this entire issue. The first one is raising this problem, which I have done. The second stage where a larger collective must address this problem and the fact that you are writing this interview is also addressing the problem. Stage three is finding a solution. Now because this is a complex issue there are no easy solutions. And there are smarter minds than mine, which is the judiciary. Do you feel that the anti-defection law which was brought in to prevent democratically elected governments from being toppled has failed? Correct. And if you read the law and the para 4 of the Tenth Schedule, it clearly mentions that it is a safeguard against defections. But the problem is that because of the percentage of elected politicians can switch and a larger number of them switching loyalties, they are basically not violating the letter of the law but the spirit of the law. IMAGE: Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde with Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. In 2019 the BJP-Shiv Sena fought the assembly elections against the Congress-Nationalist Congress Party, but after the results Uddhav Thackeray abandoned the BJP, joined the rival Congress-NCP alliance and became chief minister. In June 2022, Uddhav's right hand man Eknath Shinde led a mass exodus of Shiv Sena MLAs to the BJP's side, which installed him as chief minister of the alliance government. Photograph: ANI Photo What I understand is that paragraph 4 speaks about disqualification on the ground of defection not to apply in case of merger. And here we are seeing examples like Maharashtra where the Shiv Sena and NCP are fighting each other in courts or in the speaker's chamber to get recognition as to who holds the reigns of the original party. In this scenario, it looks like only a powerful ruling party decides what could be the outcome of this crisis. In a democracy you have many parties and you cannot have a single party democracy because if it is the case then it is not a democracy. When you have many parties and when a voter votes for a particular party, s/he votes according to the ideology of that party in which he is interested in. We as voters do not take voting as our right alone but also as our responsibility. And if it is my responsibility then it is my right to make sure that my vote counts. In the current scenario where parties keep switching sides and politicians keep switching sides, it goes to show that my vote as a voter is meaningless. And if that is the case let us save money on elections because it is expensive to conduct elections. Let us save money because a politician has no allegiance to his party, the party does not have allegiance to any manifesto and manifesto is completely useless. In which case, we will have one party rule. Did you see the movie Jawan in which Shah Rukh Khan is saying the things that you just mentioned? Do you feel people should question their elected representatives regularly? Yes, they should have a right to recall elected representatives. I have not seen Jawan -- and probably I will not see the film -- but I am happy if he has raised these issues in the film as a large part of India is paying heed to it. What action do you suggest if political leaders switch loyalties after getting elected? He should go back to the voters and say that he is a behrupia (imposter). I have come again with a new party and new ideology so please elect me again. If voters say okay and vote for him, then it is fine. And if voter says no, that you have changed your stance then s/he will not get elected. I would like judges to rule on this issue and therefore I have approached the courts. All I am saying is that this switching loyalty from one party to another is completely unfair as it devalues my vote. If we strengthen the anti-defection law, don't you feel inner-party democracy will be as good as dead, as everyone will have no choice but to bow to the party high command's diktat? I am only saying as a voter my vote should have value. I am asking the courts to decide on that. If the court says the voter has no right (after voting) and politician is independent of any responsibility to the voter, then I get a very clear answer. The anti-defection law was enacted to ensure that a political party member does not violate the mandate of the party and in case he does, he will lose his membership of the House. Prior to 1985, what was Indian politics like that it became essential to come out with the anti-defection law? In Indian politics we have fence-sitters, then we have people who broke the parties and got new factions and we have a history about all this political churning. There has been political churning and this will continue and that cannot stop because this keeps factionalism alive. The fragmentation of a political party is part of a thriving democracy, but the issue is not that, the issue is that for years nobody spoke about the voter's right. Things were always seen from the political party's perspective. Did it happen to you personally where your elected representative for whom you voted joined another party? This has happened to me as over the years as I have voted for either candidates or for parties or the combination of a candidate and a party. I have always felt at the end of it that I feel like a loser. Every year I have voted, be it municipal election, assembly election or for that matter national election. I tell myself now I should not have gone out and voted. so maybe I would have saved a lot of my time. It was not worth it. IMAGE: Former Goa chief minister Churchill Alemao, waving the flag, front, left, joins the Trinamool Congress in the presence of TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, TMC General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee, left, and others in Benaulim, Goa, December 14, 2021. Photograph: ANI Photo Former Goa chief minister Churchill Alemao got elected on an NCP ticket and since he was the sole NCP MLA in Goa he shifted to the Trinamool Congress. In this scenario, don't you feel people vote for the individual rather than a party or its ideology? Churchill Alemao kept moving around. And if every time he moved he went back to the voters and asked for the mandate maybe voters would not have given him the mandate. The fact is that we don't know whether the mandate transfers with the individual or not. That is the point as we are only making assumptions that the mandate transfers with the individual and when you believe that mandate transfers with individual, then you are supporting dynasty politics. And currently we are saying that we are not into dynasty politics. Would you say the anti-defection law as it exists is self-defeating? Yes, it is as it does not deliver the outcome that it should have been delivering. 'It is commendable that India is able to persuade all sides.' 'It shows that India counts and finally, we are reaching a position where we can find a place in the sun at the global level.' IMAGE: The Bharat Mandapam, venue for the G20 Summit in New Delhi. Photograph: Mohd Zakir/ANI Photo "India has increased its hard power through the success of Chandrayaan-3, its rising economy, and its growing capacity to deploy naval assets in the South China Sea. "All these changes indicate that India is becoming a power with greater ability to persuade," says Ambassador Jitendra Nath Misra, India's former envoy to Portugal. The diplomat is currently Professor of Diplomatic Practice at the O P Jindal Global University, Sonipat, and Distinguished Fellow at the Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies, Dhaka. "Prime Minister Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar are among the most strategically minded leaders we have had since Independence. It is commendable that they are able to persuade all sides," he tells Rediff.com's Archana Masih. The concluding segment of a two-part interview: Part 1 of the Interview: 'India must have its place in the sun' How do you think China is viewing the proposed economic corridor that will be an alternative to the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative? Moreover, does it have much more significance that this was signed at the summit where the Chinese were in attendance? Exactly! The agreement on the Corridor was not part of the official agenda of the G-20 Summit, therefore China could not have formally objected during the summit deliberations. Signalling is important in diplomacy. China was somewhat outmanoeuvred. These countries showed a deft touch and quick reflexes in launching an initiative that counters the BRI. It is significant for India in the backdrop of the problems with China on the border. The European countries, meanwhile, also don't want to hitch their bandwagon entirely with the US. They want to stay out of the US-China contestation wherever possible. India has increased its hard power through the success of Chandrayaan-3, its rising economy, and its growing capacity to deploy naval assets in the South China Sea. All these changes indicate that India is becoming a power with greater ability to persuade. Diplomacy follows power. Diplomacy does not create power. A diplomat is good only when the nation has the power to back that diplomacy. I congratulate the collective leadership and the government, because they have acted strategically. Prime Minister Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar are among the most strategically minded leaders we have had since Independence. It is commendable that they are able to persuade all sides. It's almost surreal that the Russians, Americans, Europeans, and even Canada defended the formulation on Ukraine, despite the bilateral problems between Canada and India. It shows that India counts and finally, we are reaching a position where we can find a place in the sun at the global level. Dr Jaishankar has said that India is shifting from being a 'balancing power' to a 'leading power' and Chandrayaan-3 is an example. We are a leading power in being the first country to land near the South Pole of the moon, but we have to carry out many more such endeavours. Therefore, to conclude, the Chinese would be uncomfortable with the Corridor. It happened in the presence of the Chinese premier in Delhi, though, of course, as I said, it was not part of the G-20 agenda. Multilateral meetings are important because they create opportunities for agreements at the minilateral and bilateral levels. IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra D Modi with US President Joe Biden, left, and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva hold hands at the launch of the Global Biofuels Alliance at the G20 summit, September 9, 2023. Photograph: Evelyn Hockstein/Pool/Reuters Critics feel the Economic Corridor is too ambitious and a pipe dream, do you believe it is? All action must begin with dreams. If we can't dream, we can never act. I agree that there are questions about funding. Also, if China changes its behaviour significantly, the priorities of others might change. The Corridor will pass through the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Israel, and then go by sea into Europe. America is trying to bring about reconciliation between the Saudis and Israel, perhaps leading to the opening of diplomatic relations between them. India is more than happy with that, because we have very good relations with Saudi Arabia and the UAE, as well as with Israel. We are trying to create an alternative to the BRI and we need the US, Saudi Arabia and the UAE because they have the finances, while India has other capabilities. Moreover, I would not call this a 'pipe dream'. I would say it is a dream. It is ambitious alright, but all ambition is linked to dreams -- and all action begins with a dream. Do you think India would have extracted some assurances from the member states in dealing with China? I cannot speculate, but yes, as I've already mentioned, India is seeking coalitions to deal with the asymmetry between India and China's hard power. India can't do it alone. This was an opportunity for India to explain its point of view in bilateral meetings and I wouldn't be surprised if India did so, because we must muster all the support we can to deal with China's aggressive behaviour. IMAGE: Modi with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman at Hyderabad House. Photograph: @MEAIndia/X What have been the gains for India? India is a skilful practitioner of diplomacy. Therefore, India's stature in the world has been enhanced and this is not just confined to the G-20. The Turks tried to play a mediatory role in Ukraine, the African Union sent a delegation to mediate, but India seems to be the country able to bring all sides together, at least for now. Though it was not an explicit move to mediate in Ukraine, India has positioned itself as a country that can offer something to both sides of the divide. The US might have gone along as China is steering BRICS away from the West; thus, the need to bolster institutions the West leads, like the G20. The West, Russia, China and others -- nobody is fully satisfied with the language of the Declaration on Ukraine, but everybody can live with it. So therefore, India is playing an important role. IMAGE: Modi with French President Emmanuel Macron at the G20 summit. Why did China go along with India on this? Well, they are facing a pushback. China is trying to position itself as the leader of an alternate world order and would have looked bad if they weren't seen to be statesman-like. They had to display that sort of leadership. They can't put off everybody at the same time. When you're feeling pressure, and keep saying no, and keep trying to block a consensus, you look even worse. I think China went along, reluctantly, for that reason. How has this summit shaped India's foreign policy? It is part of a process. As I said, India's foreign policy has become more strategic. Our leaders are providing excellent guidance to our diplomats and that's why our diplomats are performing so well. Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com 'The government has been anti our civilisational values.' 'My fear would be that they erode that some more to have their way and to consolidate their power.' IMAGE: The all-party meeting on the eve of the special session of Parliament, September 17, 2023. Photograph: Shrikant Singh/ANI Photo "As a citizen of India and as a Member of Parliament, I only hope that the government does not do anything which goes against the spirit of what we stand for, what we have stood for, not just post-Independence history, but as a civilisation, we have believed in coexistence, inclusion and idea of taking everyone along," Priyanka Chaturvedi, the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) Rajya Sabha MP, tells Prasanna D Zore/Rediff.com as Parliament meets for a special session this week. What are your apprehensions a day before the special session of Parliament is to be convened? I don't have any apprehensions, but I definitely have a concern as to why our systems were bypassed, where the Opposition was not taken into confidence before announcing the special session. Why did it come during the time when the INDIA summit was meeting in Mumbai and looked like a hurried decision? As we stand today and before the session begins, we still don't have the agenda. We still don't have the agenda and the reason why a special session was needed to pass a few bills, which do not look like the high priority bills except for the Chief Election Commissioner bill. My concerns are with regards to how democratic procedures and Constitutional norms are being bypassed and sidelined by this government every single day. It's been in power for nine-and-a- half years and it has done everything which suits its fancy via the ordinance routes, via the demonetisation kind of ideas, etc. So that as a citizen of India, more than as a member of Parliament, concerns me as to where we are heading in the future. Would your concerns be shared by other MPs belonging to the INDIA alliance as well? What's the mood among the MPs a day before the special session? Absolutely! The entire alliance feels that this special session has been called for a purpose which hasn't been shared, where we haven't been taken into confidence and knowing the past of this government and how they introduced a lot of things (one could only expect surprises). With regards to the land (reforms) bill, with regards to the farm bills there is a shared sense of concern that the autocratic functioning of the government totally bypasses the basis of what we envisage, our forefathers envisage, as a democratic model to pursue which is of an Opposition which keeps the government accountable and which also is being eroded every single day. We all share the similar concerns. Is there any speculation among all the MPs that India would be renamed Bharat or India would become a Hindu Rashtra or something during the next five days of the special session of Parliament? Would you be surprised if there are no surprises? Firstly, as far as the India-Bharat issue is concerned, we must understand that India in the Constitution itself is also known as Bharat. So there is no India versus Bharat scenario. So India, Bharat and Hindustan coexist in our terms of understanding how we look at a nation every single day. Every Indian citizen uses the name interchangeably to India-Bharat-Hindustan. For them to make it India versus Bharat is an unfortunate outcome of the alliance, which is opposing them coming together and naming themselves as INDIA, which speaks about developmental inclusive agenda of India. If they really change India to Bharat with that sole silly purpose (thinking that they would weaken the INDIA alliance with the renaming of India to Bharat) then I would say it speaks max of the kind of hypocrisy of the government and its total lack of faith and belief in the Constitution. In your opinion, where will our country be headed to from tomorrow? What are the feelings that come to you as a Member of Parliament and also as a citizen of India? As a citizen of India and as a Member of Parliament, I only hope that the government does not do anything which goes against the spirit of what we stand for, what we have stood for, not just post-Independence history, but as a civilisation, we have believed in coexistence, inclusion and idea of taking everyone along. The government, by its very essence has been anti our civilisational values. And my only fear would be that they erode that some more to have their way across and to consolidate their own power. We're seeing that with the CEC bill where they are downgrading the chief election commissioners and their roles to a Cabinet secretary level. You can imagine a chief election commissioner coming to the rank of a Cabinet Secretary -- instead of a Supreme Court judge -- who is below the Cabinet minister. This clearly goes to show that they are eroding the institution of the Election Commission, the important role that election commissioners play in maintaining a free and fair electoral process. And that is my concern. These are the concerns that we have been fighting for and will continue to fight against. Is the INDIA alliance prepared with a strategy in case of any surprises that could come during the five-day special session of Parliament? Absolutely! The INDIA alliance members will be meeting to decide on a joint strategy in case there are some surprises that come up and discuss how to prepare for it, how we will fight against it, and how we will ensure that there's some accountability that we demand of the government. There has been a sense of coordination with the coordination committee (of the INDIA alliance) meeting a week prior to the (special) Parliament session is to begin. There is a consensus as to how we need to tackle any kind of surprises that may come out of Mr Modi's bag. The INDIA alliance is prepared. The Cauvery Water Management Authority has asked Karnataka to continue releasing 5,000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu for another 15 days, a senior jal shakti ministry official said on Monday. Photograph: PTI Photo/ Rediff.com archives IMAGE: Members of various organisations protest at the Krishna Raja Sagara dam in Mysuru against the release of Cauvery waters to Tamil Nadu. The direction came after an emergency meeting was held on Monday in which both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu gave their representations. In the meeting, Karnataka said it could release 3,000 cusecs while Tamil Nadu demanded 12,500 cusecs of water, the official said, adding that an agreement was reached to release 5,000 cusecs of water for the next 15 days, after which the matter would be reviewed again. Taking note of the severity of drought in the Cauvery basin in Karnataka, which has been increasing and putting at greater risk even drinking water needs and minimum needs of irrigation, the state made submissions that it is not in a position to release water unless the inflows into reservoirs improves, the official said. A warm meeting between an Azov soldier who came to celebrate Rosh Hashanah in Uman, Cherkasy region, and a Hasidic pilgrim was posted online. The pilgrim kissed the chevron in the form of a red and black flag with the Star of David on the uniform of the defender of Ukraine. ADVERTISIMENT The touching moment was captured on camera by photographer Vladislav Musienko. He posted on his Facebook page that the photos were taken on September 16. "Uman, Ukraine. A Hasidic pilgrim kisses a chevron in the form of a red and black flag with the Star of David on the arm of the Ukrainian military regiment Azov with the call sign Rebbe," the author of the photo captioned it. He said that the "Rebbe" is defending Ukraine from the Russian aggressor at the front. The soldier came from the front line to the east for one day to celebrate Rosh Hashanah (celebrated on September 15-17) in the city of Uman together with other believers. ADVERTISIMENT "Weekdays and holidays of the 'Ukrainian Nazis,'" Musienko joked. In the comments, netizens admired the strong shots and noted that we are living in historic times. ADVERTISIMENT As OBOZREVATEL previously reported: - As of September 16, about 35 thousand Hasidic pilgrims from Bratslav gathered in Uman. - Ukrainian law enforcement officers have stepped up security measures and are on duty around the clock. To maintain law and order, cops from Israel arrived in Uman to help the local police. - You can read more about the history and traditions of the Jewish New Year, which in 2023 will be celebrated from September 15 to 17. Only verified information is available on our Obozrevatel Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said the West was not the "bad guy" as it was not flooding Asian and African markets with goods on a massive scale and that there was a need to get over the "syndrome" of seeing it in a negative way. IMAGE: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Photograph: @DrSJaishankar/X Jaishankar, in an interview to Malayalam news channel Asianet News, also made it clear that he was not batting for the West. He was in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday as part of the launch of the PM Vishwakarma scheme. "It is not the West which is flooding Asia and Africa with goods on a massive scale. I think we need to get over the syndrome of the past that the West is the bad guy and on the other side are the developing countries. The world is more complicated, the problems are much more complicated than that," the minister said. Former Indian diplomat T P Sreenivasan interviewed the minister for the channel. On being asked whether Chinese President Xi Jinping did not attend the G20 summit in New Delhi because it did not want India to be seen as leader of the Global South, Jaishankar said the reasons were up for speculation. He said the issue today was the building up of a strong sense, over the last 15-20 years, over the inequities of globalisation where countries saw their products, manufacturing and employment come under stress due to their markets being flooded by cheap goods -- an indirect reference to the Chinese trade and economic policies. The minister said this underlying resentment and pain of those countries regarding the global economy was building up for the last 15-20 years and the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine conflict resulted in prices of energy and food items going up. So there was a sense of anger building up in countries about them being used as an extractive resource to fuel the economy of another nation and added that the West was not to be blamed for that. He made it clear that he was not batting for the West and said that in today's globalisation there was a concentration of manufacturing that was being leveraged and subsidised and was affecting economies of various nations. However, India's manufacturing, agriculture, scientific achievement like the Chandrayaan-3 mission, ability to vaccinate, etc all of that has created a sense among the Global South, which includes the African Union, "that one of us has the ability to stand, grow and progress". "So they identify with us in a way that they do not with other people," Jaishankar said. Responding to queries, he also spoke about the achievements of the G20 Summit under the Indian presidency and the threat posed by the political space given by Canada to the Khalistan group. Jaishankar said that some of the major achievements of the G20 Summit under the Indian presidency was that India was able to get the influential group of nations back on the track of growth and development and also focus on the Global South initiative. In addition to that, the country was also able to do diplomacy in a different way and through the summit created a greater interest in the nation about the Baltic, he said. Jaishankar said India was a different country now with a different level of confidence and a different leadership and the manner in which G20 was conducted has only benefited the nation. He said that the summit showed that the agenda "does not have to be decided by the West or by the P5 or by a narrow one or two countries" and that India too can shape it. "By doing the Voice of the Global South (summit) and bringing 125 nations together, we straightaway shaped the agenda," he said. At the same time, he said, the Global South was not a new world order or a definition and India was not claiming to be its leader. "My most truthful answer is that the Global South is not a definition, but a feeling. It is a feeling of solidarity, a willingness to put yourself out," he said, adding that "those who are part of it know it and those who are not also know it". World leaders at the two-day G20 Summit in New Delhi recently had hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his "decisive leadership" and for championing the voice of the Global South. He also welcomed the proposed economic corridor with India at one end and Europe at the other and which passes through the Middle East making it easier for people from here to go there for job opportunities. While speaking about people migrating abroad for jobs, he touched upon the issue of the Khalistan group's activities in Canada and its effect on India's relations with that country. He said the problem arises when, for whatever reason, such countries give space in their politics for activities of such groups. The minister said there were compulsions in politics, "but everybody, especially in a democracy, must temper that with a larger sense of responsibility to the world as well as a sense of responsibility to their own image and their own well being". "Forget us for the moment. You know the kind of force involved in all of this. They are not good for the country where all of this will happen. Today it is Canada, it could be something else tomorrow. We are focusing on generating that appreciation," he said. On how India managed to not get Russia blamed for the Ukraine conflict in the G20 declaration, Jaishankar said, "Everybody compromised." "There was a lot of give and take," he added. He said what happened in the Bali Summit of G20, where Russia was blamed, could not be repeated in India and at the same time the clock could not be stopped there. "This is New Delhi. So the New Delhi outcome had to be forged," he said. He also said that in the G20 India was able to focus on the Global South in terms of phrases, agenda, outcome and the African Union's membership "for which Prime Minister Narendra Modi really stuck his neck out". "This is a different country, with a different level of confidence and a different leadership," he concluded. The Pakistani husband of a 34-year-old Indian mother, who travelled to a remote village in Pakistan to marry him, said on Sunday that she is expected to return to India next month as she is "mentally disturbed and badly missing" her two children. IMAGE: Anju with her Pakistani husband Nasrullah. Anju -- who now goes by the name of Fatima after converting to Islam -- on July 25 married her 29-year-old friend Nasrullah, whose home is in the Upper Dir district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. They became friends on Facebook in 2019. "Fatima (Anju) is returning to India next month," her husband Nasrullah told PTI by phone. "She is mentally disturbed and badly missing her children and she had no other option except to go back," Nasrullah said. Anju was earlier married to Arvind, who is in Rajasthan. They have a 15-year-old daughter and a six-year-old son. He said he doesn't want her mental health to deteriorate. "It is better for her to proceed to her country to meet her children," he said. He said after the completion of the documentation process in Pakistan she will go back. "It will take some time and likely next month she will proceed to India," he said, adding he will also travel to India if granted a visa. Anju and her husband were in Peshawar on a day-long visit for the first time since their marriage in August this year. She has expressed a keen desire to see the ancestral homes of legendary Indian film actors like the late Dilip Kumar and Shah Rukh Khan in Peshawar. "I have learnt some Pashto words. I had no idea before coming to Pakistan that I would be so famous here," Anju said. Minister of State Prahlad Singh Patel on Monday posted on social media platform X that the Union Cabinet has approved the women's reservation bill, but deleted the post within an hour. IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi chairs a meeting of the Union Cabinet, New Delhi, September 18, 2023. Photograph: ANI video screen grab While there was no official word on what transpired in the Cabinet meeting, which lasted for more than 90 minutes on Monday evening, speculation was rife that it had approved the women's reservation bill. "Only the Modi government had the moral courage to fulfil the demand for women's reservation which was proved by the approval of the cabinet. Congratulations Narendra Modi ji and congratulations to the Modi government," the minister said in the post on X which was later deleted. Patel is the minister of state for food processing industries and jal shakti. Government sources had earlier indicated that the bill has been approved by the Cabinet and is likely to be tabled in Parliament. "It can be brought before Parliament," a top government functionary said when asked whether the Women's Reservation Bill can be presented in Parliament, which meets in the new building on Tuesday. Patel was earlier a minister of state with independent charge but in a recent Cabinet reshuffle, he was made a minister of state. The Union Cabinet met on Monday evening after the first sitting of the five-day special session of Parliament. The Cabinet meeting was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Sources said several BJP ministers and MPs have been asked to bring women constituents to Parliament in the coming days. BJP president J P Nadda met several of them on Monday. Cutting across political lines, leaders have demanded the introduction of the women's reservation bill, which guarantees a 33 per cent quota in Lok Sabha and state assemblies. The Women's Reservation Bill passed by the Rajya Sabha in 2010 had provision for 33 per cent reservation for women in Lok Sabha and state assemblies. Earlier addressing the media, the prime minister said that "historic decisions" will be taken this Parliament session which may be of short duration but is big on occasion. The cabinet meeting was attended by Union ministers including Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, Piyush Goyal, Pralhad Joshi, S Jaishankar, Nirmala Sitharaman, Dharmendra Pradhan, Nitin Gadkari and Arjun Ram Meghwal. Ever since it was announced that the Parliament session would be held from September 18-22, there has been speculation on various bills, including the women's reservation bill. In his remarks in Lok Sabha on the discussion on 75 years of Parliament, he asserted that the contribution of women parliamentarians has been on the rise over the years. Congress spokesperson Jairam Ramesh welcomed the "reported decision" of the Union Cabinet. "It's been a long-standing demand of the Congress party to implement women's reservation. We welcome the reported decision of the Union Cabinet and await the details of the Bill. "This could have very well been discussed in the all-party meeting before the Special Session, and consensus could have been built instead of operating under a veil of secrecy," Ramesh said on X. In a post on X, the BJP Mahila Morcha said, "Cabinet approves Women's Reservation Bill. The NDA Govt led by PM Shri @narendramodi ji creates history !! We at BJP Mahila Morcha express our gratitude". Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge used poetry and humour to take swipes at the government on Monday, saying nothing will be accomplished by changing names, and went on to recall how first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru's 'inclusive' approach of involving opposition parties had led to the laying of a strong foundation for the Constitution. IMAGE: Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge speaks in the house on the first day of Special Session of Parliament, in New Delhi on Monday. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Photo The leader of opposition (LoP) in the Rajya Sabha slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for neither finding time to attend Parliament nor to visit ethnic strife-torn Manipur. Participating in a discussion on the country's parliamentary journey on the opening day of a special parliamentary session, Kharge said the opposition tried hard to get Modi to speak on the ethnic violence in Manipur. He said Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar too tried initiating a discussion in the House on Manipur. "The problem is that the prime minister does not even listen to you," Kharge said, adding that whenever the opposition looks up to the chairman, he looks at the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders. Dhankhar shot back, saying 'main majboor nahin, majboot hoon (I am not helpless, I am strong)'. Kharge opened his speech with a poem in Hindi. "Badalna hai to halat badlo, aise naam badalne se kya hota hai? Dena hein to yuva ko rozgar do, sab ko berozgar karke kya hota hai? Dil ko thoda bada karke dekho, logon ko marne se kya hota hai? Kuch kar nahi sakte ho, kursi chor do, baat baat mein darane se kya hota hai? "Apni hukumrani par guroor hai, logon ko darane se dhamkane se kya hota hai? Badalna hai to halat badlo, aise naam badalne se kya hota hai? Yahan se wahan jane mein kya aur honewala hai?" he said. ("If you want to change something, change the situation, what will be accomplished by changing names? If you want to give something, give employment to youngsters, what will be accomplished by making everyone unemployed? Try becoming more magnanimous, what will be accomplished by killing people? If you cannot do anything, leave the chair, what will be accomplished by scaring people?"). The strong foundation stones that support a structure are not visible to anyone and it is only the plaque on the wall that is seen, Kharge said in an apparent jibe at Modi, without naming him. He also alleged that the government is focused on weakening the opposition by using central agencies, such as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The Congress leader also expressed concern over the passage of several bills in a manner faster than the 'bullet train', without referring those to parliamentary standing committees. "He (Modi) goes to every corner of the country, but why does he not visit Manipur? He should visit Manipur and see the pain and suffering of the people," Kharge said. Ethnic violence has gripped Manipur since May 3, he said, adding that people in the northeastern state are getting killed and houses are being set on fire. The Congress has sought a statement on the situation in Manipur, the LoP said. Stating that Nehru had a big heart as he took the opposition along, he said the first prime minister of independent India used to meet opposition members to discuss key issues with them and take their views. He used to patiently listen to the debates in Parliament. In fact, he had inducted an opposition leader, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, in his cabinet, Kharge pointed out. "What happens today? No one listens to us.... Now, he (Modi) does not enter the House," he said, adding that Nehru believed that if the opposition was gaining in strength, there must have been some flaw as far as governance was concerned. However, 'there is a strong opposition now, but the ED and the CBI are being used to weaken them', he alleged. Kharge recalled that Nehru had laid the foundation of the Constitution, based on which Parliament is functioning. "That was a time when everyone was taken along.... The foundation stones are not visible now, but the names on the plaque are seen," he said and highlighted the efforts of B R Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Constitution. It was during the Congress regime that efforts were made to strengthen democracy and keep the Constitution alive, Kharge said while lamenting that 'we are now fighting to protect the Constitution'. Several bills were passed in the old Parliament building in the last 75 years, as a result of which the country has changed, the Congress chief said. "We are cooperating, but at times, there are altercations," he added. Complaining about the prime minister not showing up in the Upper House to listen to the views of the opposition, Kharge said, "Everyone is watching what is happening today. The prime minister comes to Parliament occasionally. When he comes, he makes it an event and goes away." Responding to Kharge's charge, Leader of the House Piyush Goyal said the Congress members walk out whenever the prime minister is in the House. Kharge also criticised Modi for giving speeches outside, but not in Parliament. He said former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee gave 21 speeches in the House during his term, while Manmohan Singh gave about 30 speeches. "The current prime minister spoke only twice, leaving aside the customary speeches, in the last nine years." he added. Dhankhar said customary speeches are also important. "I thought Kharge would have a complaint that why does the prime minister speak so much," he said, adding that the Rajya Sabha Secretariat will have to check this and it shall inform the LoP in three days. Kharge said, "Outside, he (Modi) speaks a lot. So much he speaks that we cannot digest it." The Congress leader urged the government to table the Women's Reservation Bill in Parliament and highlighted the issue of unemployment, saying rising joblessness will destroy democracy in the country. Kharge highlighted the small number of women lawmakers in Parliament, saying they accounted for only 14 per cent of the members in both Houses, while their percentage in the legislative assemblies is just 10. The proportion of women MPs was just 5 per cent in the first Lok Sabha in 1952. Kharge told the House that the proportion of women members has risen to 28 per cent from 2 per cent in the US Parliament while in Britain, it has jumped to 33 per cent from 3 per cent. He complained to the chairman that the opposition does not get enough opportunities to put forth their views on various subjects inside the House and requested that the cameras inside Parliament, which live-telecast the proceedings, should focus equally on the opposition MPs when they are speaking. "We do not get a chance outside. We get it here, so please let us have it," he said. "You are our guardian. If there is any injustice against us, you are the one who is supposed to protect us. We are so few in number, if all of them (ruling NDA members) start attacking us, we will come to you," the Congress leader added. The simmering tension with the Bharatiya Janata Party over its leader K Annamalai's attack on Dravidian stalwart C N Annadurai prompted the All India Anna Dravida Munnentra Kazhagam in Tamil Nadu on Monday to state it had no alliance with the saffron party as of now, and that a decision on the matter will be made during the upcoming elections. IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi with AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami during the NDA meeting, at The Ashok Hotel, in New Delhi. Photograph: ANI Photo The AIADMK sought to make it clear it cannot tolerate any affront to the late Chief Minister and its other leaders. The party trained its guns against BJP TN president K Annamalai, saying he was only keen to "promote" himself and was therefore targeting late Dravidian stalwarts Annadurai, fondly addressed as Anna (elder brother), EV Ramasamy 'Periyar' and late AIADMK veterans MG Ramachandran (MGR) and J Jayalalithaa. Responding, the BJP said the Dravidian party 'has a problem', with the growing stature of a young leader like Annamalai and claimed it was growing stronger in the state. The development came days after AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami met BJP veteran and Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi. Senior AIADMK leader D Jayakumar, lashing out at Annamalai for his criticism of Annadurai, said his party workers will not tolerate any insult to the late CM. While Annamalai had made critical remarks about AIADMK leaders including the late J Jayalalithaa in the past, the party had sought that the former be restrained. "Annamalai doesn't desire an alliance with AIADMK although BJP workers want it. Should we tolerate all this criticism of our leaders? Why should we carry you? BJP can't set foot here. Your votebank is known. You are known because of us," the former minister told reporters here while lashing out at the BJP and its state unit president. "We can't tolerate anymore (the criticism of leaders). As far as the alliance is concerned, it is not there. BJP is not with AIADMK. (The matter) can be decided only during the election. This is our stand," he said. Asked if this was his personal opinion, Jayakumar asked, "have I ever spoken to you in that capacity. I only talk what the party decides." A tall leader, Annadurai founded the DMK in 1949 and in 1967 heralded Tamil Nadu's first non-Congress government post-independence and is respected across party lines. MGR, who founded the AIADMK in 1972, named it the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, as he had great reverence for Annadurai. Jayakumar said Anna was a respected scholar who ushered in TN's growth and that 'we revere him'. "Our party has his (Annadurai) name. To promote himself, he (Annamalai) belittles Periyar. He didn't budge even after condemnation. It is against coalition dharma; no AIADMK worker will accept this. Annamalai is unfit to be a leader and he is keen only about promoting him. What right have you got to talk about Periyar, EPS (Palaniswami), Amma (Jayalalithaa) and MGR. AIADMK workers will never accept this," Jayakumar added. "He is arrogant. Alliance (between the two) is not there, can be decided only during election. Suddenly he speaks about our leaders-- how can we accept criticism of leaders. If he is not budging even after (AIADMK) taking up with (BJP) high command, then it means such things are happening with their knowledge," he said. The AIADMK had nothing to lose over the alliance-related development. "They are the losers," he said about the BJP. He repeatedly claimed the BJP and Annamalai will fare badly electorally without the AIADMK. He warned that if Annamalai doesn't cease from targeting such tall leaders, he will be given a fitting reply. Responding to the matter, Amar Prasad Reddy, close aide of Annamalai, said the AIADMK was unable to stand the growing popularity of the BJP and its state chief, and therefore made such an announcement. "Annamalai is a principled politician, he cannot bend for corruption or wrong policies. He was only referring to some historical event," regarding Annadurai, Reddy, BJP State President, Sports and Skill Development Cell, told PTI. Annamalai also spoke highly of Annadurai, he added. "They don't like BJP's growth and recognition and the youths' response to Annamalai. Probably this is the era where we are moving from a fake Dravidian ideology to a nationalist one," Reddy added. BJP is getting very strong roots and "they are unable to digest a 38-year-old guy creating a huge impact," with his "En Mann, En Makkal" padayatra (foot march), he said. "We won't retract any of Annamalai's statements as they are factual," Reddy asserted. AIADMK and BJP have been sparring over the last few days over Annamalai's criticism of Annadurai. On September 11, leading a demonstration against Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister P K Sekar Babu for his participation in the 'Sanatana Dharma' eradication conference here, Annamalai had made a comment on Annadurai. The BJP leader said Anna had in the 1950s made a critical remark in Madurai against the Hindu faith at an event, and that it was staunchly opposed by freedom fighter Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar. Senior AIADMK leader and former minister C Ve Shanmugam had earlier said there is no basis or proof for what Annamalai has claimed and that the BJP leader has no locus standi to comment on Anna. Former ministers and AIADMK leaders Jayakumar and Sellur K Raju also had strongly opposed Annamalai's remark. It was against civility to speak ill of departed leaders, they had said. Speaking to reporters in Coimbatore on Sunday, Annamalai asked if what he had said about Anna was wrong. He asserted that he is in politics to protect Sanatana Dharma and Tamil culture. He insisted that he did not speak ill of Anna and had only mentioned an event from the pages of history and the manner in which Muthuramalinga Thevar had defended Sanatana Dharma. To substantiate his claim, the BJP leader said, he had copies of news reports that appeared in the month of June in 1956 in a top national English daily. Shanmugam had said as Annamalai had criticised the Dravidian icon even while the AIADMK and BJP were in alliance, it led to a suspicion that he may have an ulterior motive, and wondered whether the BJP leader, by "joining hands with the DMK," does not want the National Democratic Alliance to win the Lok Sabha polls in Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu has 39 Lok Sabha seats while neighbouring Puducherry has one. AIADMK heads the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Tamil Nadu and the two parties had faced the 2019 LS polls and 2021 Assembly elections as allies. While the alliance managed one seat in 2019 with AIADMK winning from Theni, it lost the 2021 polls to the DMK-led bloc. AIADMK managed to win 66 seats in the 234-member House while the BJP emerged victorious in 4 constituencies. However, the saffron party faced the local body polls held later by itself. As the old Parliament building hosted a session one last time, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday bid a poignant farewell recalling the country's first PM Jawaharlal Nehru's iconic 'tryst with destiny' speech for continuing to inspire everyone and another predecessor Atal Bihari Vajpayee's 'governments may come and go' remark. IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks in the Lok Sabha on the first day of the Special Session of Parliament, in New Delhi on Monday. Photograph: SansadTV/ANI Photo Reminiscing the country's Parliamentary journey of 75 years, Modi at the same time reminded the Lok Sabha about Emergency as well as the 2008 'cash-for-vote' scam during the first term of the Manmohan Singh government. As he sang paeans to previous prime ministers including Lal Bahadur Shastri, Indira Gandhi and P V Narasimha Rao, Modi remembered the journey of India's democracy and said the last day in the heritage building should be dedicated to the over 7,500 parliamentarians who served there since Independence in 1947. "It is a very emotional moment to bid farewell to this building. As we leave this building our mind is filled with many emotions and memories," Modi said, initiating the discussion on 'Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha -- Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings'. Modi paid tributes to 'every brick' of the old Parliament building and said MPs will enter the new complex with 'new hope and confidence'. The Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha will meet again on Tuesday afternoon in the newly constructed Parliament building after they were adjourned following a discussion on the country's parliamentary journey on the first day of the five-day session. Parliament will be shifting to the swanky complex on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. Outside Parliament, Modi said the session may be short in duration but is big on occasion, and is of 'historic decisions'. He said there is an atmosphere of festivity and enthusiasm, and the country has been filled with renewed self-confidence, and asked parliamentarians to give maximum time to the short session. There will be a lot of time left for rona dhona (whining), he said taking a jibe at the opposition which has been criticising the government over the session, which is unusual for its timing. In his 52-minute speech, Modi said it was in this Parliament that Pandit Nehru delivered his 'tryst with destiny' speech 'at the stroke of midnight hour' to mark India's independence from colonial rule and his words continue to inspire everyone. "In the same House, Atalji's words about 'sarkarein aayegi, jayegi; partiyan banegi, bigdegi; lekin yeh desh rehna chahiye' (governments may come and go; parties may be formed or disbanded; but this nation has to live on) continue to echo even today." Modi also said there were celebrations everywhere when three new states of Uttarakhand, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh were created in 2000 during Vajpayee's tenure but lamented that Telangana being carved out of Andhra Pradesh led to only bitterness and bloodshed in both the states. The United Progressive Alliance government headed by Manmohan Singh had in 2013 cleared the formation of Telangana. In the Rajya Sabha, Leader of Opposition and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge used poetry and humour to take a swipe at the government, saying nothing will be accomplished by changing names. He also recalled how Jawaharlal Nehru's 'inclusive' approach of involving opposition parties had led to the laying of a strong foundation for the Constitution. Kharge began his speech with a poem in Hindi. "Badalna hai to halat badlo, aise naam badalne se kya hota hai? Dena hein to yuva ko rozgar do, sab ko berozgar karke kya hota hai? Dil ko thoda bada karke dekho, logon ko marne se kya hota hai? Kuch kar nahi sakte ho, kursi chor do, baat baat mein darane se kya hota hai? "Apni hukumrani par guroor hai, logon ko darane se dhamkane se kya hota hai? Badalna hai to halat badlo, aise naam badalne se kya hota hai? Yahan se wahan jane mein kya aur honewala hai?" he said. ("If you want to change something, change the situation, what will be accomplished by changing names? If you want to give something, give employment to youngsters, what will be accomplished by making everyone unemployed? Try becoming more magnanimous, what will be accomplished by killing people? If you cannot do anything, leave the chair, what will be accomplished by scaring people?"). In the Lok Sabha, Modi recalled the bravery of Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt who hurled bombs in the same Parliament building to wake up the British empire from its slumber. "The echo of that bomb still gives sleepless nights to those who wish well for this country," he said. Singh and Dutt had hurled bombs in the Delhi Central legislative assembly (the present Parliament House). The prime minister said the biggest achievement of these 75 years was that the common person's trust in Parliament continues to grow. "We may as well move to the new building, but this old building will always inspire generations to come." Modi said it is also an occasion to hail everyone who have led this House and shared their vision for India, ranging from Pandit Nehru to Vajpayee. They have given new direction to the nation under their leadership and today is an occasion to highlight their achievements, the prime minister said. He also remembered Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Chandrashekhar and Lal Krishna Advani for enriching the House. The prime minister also recalled the terror attack on Parliament in 2001 and remembered those who took bullets on their chests to save members while fighting terrorists. "It was not an attack on the building but an attack on the Mother of Democracy itself. It was an attack on the soul of India," he said. "I also salute those who faced bullets on their chests to save the House and its members while fighting the terrorists. They are not among us, but they have protected us in a great way." The prime minister also lauded the contribution of B R Ambedkar, saying his vision for industrialisation, which was aimed at bringing social justice in the country during the first government of independent India, continues to remain at the heart of every industrial policy even today. At the same time, there have been sad and emotive moments when Parliament witnessed loss of three serving prime ministers -- Nehru, Shastri and Indira Gandhi -- and rich tributes were paid to them, he noted. "This House also supported the liberation of Bangladesh under the leadership of Indira Gandhi." At the same time, this House also witnessed an attack on democracy during the Emergency and through this House, the people also asserted their power as we saw the return of democracy, Modi added. The prime minister said in the post-independence period, many learned people had raised various concerns about India. "They voiced apprehensions about whether India would be able to thrive, whether it would remain united, whether democracy in India would survive. But it is the power of this Parliament that the world was proven wrong. India thrived, despite all the doubts and darkness." On a personal note, Modi said he had never imagined that a child from a poor family, who was living on a railway platform, would reach Parliament. "But this is the strength of India's democracy and a reflection of the faith of the common man of India towards democracy that a child from a poor family, living on the railway platform, reached Parliament," he added. The Supreme Court on Monday directed the Maharashtra assembly speaker to spell out the timeline within a week for adjudication of the disqualification petitions filed against Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Shiv Sena MLAs loyal to him who had tied up with the Bharatiya Janata Party to form a new government in June 2022, saying apparently nothing has been done so far despite its direction for deciding the pleas within reasonable time. IMAGE: Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde with Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar, at Vidhan Sabha, in Mumbai. Photograph: ANI Photo This cannot go on indefinitely. Tell us about the time schedule, the bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra told Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who was representing Maharashtra assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar. The top court referred to its May 11 verdict on the Maharashtra political crisis and the direction it had issued to the speaker to decide the disqualification petitions within a reasonable time. The order of this court requires the speaker to decide the disqualification petitions within a reasonable period. While this court is cognizant of the need to ensure the sense of comity....we would equally expect deference and dignity to the directions issued by us in the exercise of court's constitutional power of judicial review, the bench said. We now direct that the proceedings shall be listed before the speaker, who is constituted as a tribunal under the 10th schedule of the Constitution, no later than within a period of one week wherein the procedural directions shall be issued for completing the record and setting out the time schedule for the hearing of the disqualification proceedings, it ordered. The court asked the solicitor general to apprise the bench of the time schedule to be fixed by the speaker for deciding the pleas for disqualification of 56 MLAs including lawmakers belonging to the Shinde faction. At the outset, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the Uddahav Thackeray faction, said the separate plea challenging the Election Commission's decision to grant recognition to the Shinde-led bloc as real Shiv Sena may be heard later. He, however, sought urgent hearing of the petition seeking a direction to the speaker to decide the disqualification pleas by Thackeray camp and alleged an illegal government was in power in the state. The solicitor general opposed the submissions, asserting they ridiculed the office of the assembly speaker which was a constitutional office like the court. We don't like the ridiculing manner in which this is presented. I have to go by the data, the rules. Why they are not circulating documents that is between them. I am an adjudicating authority, the law officer said, seeking to explain the delay. But, he (speaker) has to decide. He can't do this...What did the speaker do after the May 11 judgement by the court? It appears that nothing has happened, the bench said, adding the office of the speaker is also a tribunal under the Constitution and hence amenable to the court's jurisdiction. Sibal said the Thackeray faction made three representations on May 15, 23 and June 2 for early adjudication of the disqualification petitions but there was no response from the office of the speaker. Then we filed a petition on July 4. The notice was issued on July 14. When we approached the speaker, there were 100 replies by each MLA. This is a very serious issue... each of these 100 matters will be tried separately, Sibal said. The senior lawyer said the speaker called the matters on September 14, apparently after coming to know that the top court has listed the petition for hearing. The Uddhav Thackeray faction had moved the apex court in July seeking direction to the state assembly speaker to expeditiously adjudicate the disqualification petitions in a time-bound manner. The plea by Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) MLA Sunil Prabhu, who as the chief whip of the undivided Shiv Sena had filed the disqualification petitions against Shinde and other MLAs in 2022, alleged Speaker Rahul Narwekar is deliberately delaying the adjudication despite the verdict of the apex court. 'The petitioner is constrained to invoke the extraordinary jurisdiction of this court under Article 32 of the Constitution of India, in light of the respondent Speaker's conduct in choosing to deliberately delay the adjudication of the disqualification petitions filed by the Petitioner against the delinquent members of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly,' the plea filed through advocate Amit Anand Tiwari said. It said the speaker, despite the categorical direction of the top court in its May 11 judgment that the pending disqualification petitions must be decided within a reasonable period, has chosen to not conduct a single hearing. Prabhu, in his petition said, 'Therefore, it is imperative for this court to direct the Speaker, Maharashtra legislative assembly, to decide the disqualification petitions filed by the petitioner against delinquent members of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly expeditiously, within a time-bound manner.' On May 11, the top court had ruled that Eknath Shinde will continue to be the chief minister of Maharashtra as it cannot reinstate the MVA coalition government headed by Uddhav Thackeray since the Shiv Sena leader chose to resign without facing a floor test in the wake of a rebellion in his party. The unanimous verdict by a five-judge constitution bench had come as a massive relief for Shinde. The apex court had censured Bhagat Singh Koshyari, who was the Maharashtra governor during the political turmoil, over his decision calling upon Thackeray to prove his majority in the assembly based on a request by the Shinde faction. Shinde, who led the rebellion against Thackeray, sparking a nine-day political crisis in June last year, later joined hands with the BJP to form a government. Refusing to disqualify the 16 rebel Shiv Sena MLAs including Shinde, the bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud had said the court cannot ordinarily adjudicate disqualification petitions under the anti-defection law, and directed Speaker Rahul Narwekar to take a decision on the pending matter within a 'reasonable period'. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday that this Parliament session may be short in duration but is big on occasion, and is of "historic decisions". In his remarks to the media ahead of the five-day session, Modi noted that Parliament will move to the new building on Tuesday as he asked MPs to join proceedings with new enthusiasm while shedding old shortcomings, an apparent reference to frequent protests by opposition members during previous sessions, causing disruptions. He highlighted India's Chandrayaan-3 mission, the "unprecedented" success of its G20 presidency, the launch of 'PM Vishwakarma Mission', and inauguration of international convention centre Yashobhoomi, asserting that many developments which have inspired the country and filled it with pride have taken place. There is an atmosphere of festivity and enthusiasm, and the country has been filled with renewed self-confidence, he said, asking parliamentarians to give maximum time to the short session. There will be a lot of time left for rona dhona (whining), he said in a jibe at the opposition which has been criticising the government over the session, which is unusual for its timing. The journey of 75 years will now continue from a new destination, the prime minister said, urging members to pitch in with a new resolve, energy and confidence. The country has to become developed by 2047, and all new decisions for this will now be taken in the new building, he noted. It will be a valuable session, he said, adding that the shift to the new building will happen on Ganesh Chaturthi and that Lord Ganesha is revered as the God which removes all obstacles. There will be no obstacle in India's development journey and the country will fulfil all its resolves and dreams, the prime minister said. Citing success of India's moon mission, he said it will bring innumerable possibilities and opportunities to the country's doorstep. It is a source of inspiration and pride, he added. Referring to the success of the G20, he said it reflected India's true federal spirit as events were held in over 60 cities. It became a celebration of India's diversity, he said. It will also give pride to India that it became the voice of Global South, with the African Union being admitted as a member. The Summit declaration was adopted unanimously, an indication of India's bright future, he asserted. Women politicians bring to politics and policy a sensitivity that most of their male counterparts, at least until a generation back, lacked. IMAGE: Congress leader Sonia Gandhi prior to attending the Congress Working Committee meeting, in Hyderabad, September 16, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo Only 15 of the 389 members of the Constituent Assembly, which framed the Constitution, were women. But they stridently opposed any reservation for women, arguing that equality alone could be the basis for mutual respect and understanding between genders. In 1966, India had a woman prime minister. While it didn't help improve women's representation in legislatures, one wonders whether Indira Gandhi, the pre-eminent of the 17 women politicians Nidhi Sharma's book She, The Leader: Women In Indian Politics profiles, Jawaharlal and Kamala Nehru's only child, would have been as successful a politician if she had had a brother. The question isn't biased if one considers examples not just from patriarchal Hindi heartland political dynasties but even from matrilineal societies of the Northeast, such as Meghalaya, where families celebrate when a girl is born, and of Ampareen Lyngdoh, the book's 17th protagonist, a fourth-term legislator and currently a minister in the National People's Party government in the state. When her father, Peter G Marbaniang, a parliamentarian, died in 1997, Ms Lyngdoh believed she should be the inheritor of his political legacy since she assisted him in his political work. Her mother, the head of the family, picked her brother, Robert G Lyngdoh, a government servant at the time 'and nowhere connected to politics', as Marbaniang's political successor. After a brief but successful stint, Robert stepped away from politics after a stroke in 2006. Ms Lyngdoh finally had her opportunity, but her brother and the Congress block president selected someone outside the family as the party candidate. Ms Lyngdoh contested on the ticket of a regional party, defeating the Congress candidate in the 2008 assembly polls. She was the only woman legislator in the 60-member Meghalaya assembly. Despite their better gender ratios than the national average and matrilineal societies, few women enter public life in the North East. Women's representation has only marginally improved in Parliament and Legislative Assemblies in the last 70 years. The first Lok Sabha in 1952 had 4.4 per cent women members. The current 17th Lok Sabha has 15 per cent. The US House of Representatives had 2 per cent women members in 1951 and 28.3 per cent in 2022, while the House of Commons increased from 3 per cent to 34.61 per cent in the same period. It is incongruous to compare women's representation in the developed world and developing countries, such as India, which is why, by the 1970s, the women's movement recognised the need for their political reservation. The Ramakrishna Hegde-led Janata Party government in Karnataka introduced 25 per cent reservation for women in panchayats, and the state saw its first election under the changed law in December 1986. By 1988, the National Perspective Plan for Women: 1988-2000 supported a 30 per cent reservation for women, the first government document to set the proportion for women's reservation at one-third. It paved the way for the 73rd and 74th amendments, which Rajiv Gandhi piloted, but the law was enacted after his death. During the negotiations on reservation for women in the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), Sharma writes, then Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Gegong Apang told Rajiv Gandhi's aide Mani Shankar Aiyar, 'If you force us to have women's reservation, we will go join China.' Until now, over 1.4 million women have been elected to the PRIs. The H D Deve Gowda introduced a Bill to reserve a third of the seats in the Lok Sabha and legislative assemblies for women in 1996, which his party leaders, such as Sharad Yadav, opposed, demanding a quota within quota, arguing that 'parkati mahilayen', women with short hair, that is privileged urban women, will corner the seats. The Bill continues to hang fire, but in the last quarter century, women increasingly comprise a vote bank that determines election issues and outcomes, spurring parties to announce women-specific manifestos, promises and 'guarantees'. She, The Leader: Women In Indian Politics chronicles the political trajectories of Sucheta Kripalani, the country's first woman chief minister, Sonia Gandhi, J Jayalalithaa, Vasundhara Raje, Sheila Dikshit, Mayawati, Sushma Swaraj, Mamata Banerjee, among others, and the current crop of women politicians, such as Smriti Z Irani, Supriya Sule and Kanimozhi. It also touches upon the ugly side of Indian public life, of women facing the risk of physical assaults, as did Mayawati, Jayalalithaa and Mamata Banerjee. Or how they manage their careers and home -- Ms Lyngdoh's husband deserted her when she took the political plunge, leaving her to raise her young children as a single mother. Sushma Swaraj's husband, one of the youngest governors of a state ever, took the back seat as she rose to prominence. Women politicians, Sharma suggests, bring to politics and policy a sensitivity that most of their male counterparts, at least until a generation back, lacked. In May 1991, standing in front of her husband's coffin, Sharma notes, Sonia Gandhi noticed the flowerless coffin of Rajiv Gandhi's bodyguard, Pradeep, and placed some flowers on it. She pushed the government to roll out schemes that helped women, as did Jayalalithaa in her tenures as the Tamil Nadu chief minister. Kanimozhi's advocacy had Tamil Nadu become the first state in the country to establish a welfare board for transgender people and introduce the third gender option in college admission forms. In India, as the adoption of the Hindu Code Bill in 1956 despite protests from large sections of Hindu traditionalists showed, Parliament occasionally needs to herald reforms that, hopefully, trickle down into the soil that remains patriarchal and the women's reservation Bill, or even the promise in Madhya Pradesh to reserve a third of government jobs for women are ideas whose time has arrived. She, The Leader: Women In Indian Politics Author: Nidhi Sharma Publisher: Aleph Pages: 363 Price: Rs 999 Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com On the night of September 18, Ukraine's Air Defense Forces shot down 17 enemy cruise missiles and 18 Shahed-136/131 kamikaze drones. In total, the Russian aggressor country launched 41 targets toward our regions. ADVERTISIMENT Russian strike UAVs flew to Mykolaiv and Odesa regions, while missiles were neutralized over Dnipro, Poltava and Khmelnytskyi regions. The details of the attack were provided by the Ukrainian Air Force. It is noted that on Monday night, the enemy attacked our country with Shaheds and X-101/X-555/X-55 air-launched cruise missiles. The drones flew from two directions: Primorsko-Akhtarsk (Russia) and Cape Chauda (temporarily occupied Crimea). A total of 24 attack drones were spotted flying in the direction of Mykolaiv and Odesa regions. "18 attack drones were destroyed by air defense along the route," the Armed Forces reported. At the same time, the occupiers launched 17 X-101/X-555/X-55 missiles from eight Tu-95MS strategic bombers in the Volgograd region of the Russian Federation. "All 17 were destroyed by the Air Force within Dnipro, Poltava and Khmelnytsky regions. Let's hold the sky! Together to victory!" the defenders of the sky said. ADVERTISIMENT It is known that two cruise missiles were shot down over the Dnipro region on Monday morning. This was stated by the head of the regional military administration, Serhiy Lysak, who thanked the defense for the round-the-clock protection of the sky. In the morning report of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, it was noted that since the beginning of this day, the Russian occupiers have launched a massive attack using cruise missiles and attack UAVs on the civilian infrastructure of Odesa region. Information on the consequences of this terrorist attack is being clarified. As reported by OBOZREVATEL, on September 17, Ukraine's air defenders destroyed 12 of the 16 air targets that Russia used to attack the south of the country. In particular, air defense forces shot down six enemy missiles and six Shahed drones. Some of the targets landed in Odesa region. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information on our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Brattleboro, VT (05301) Today Snow showers early will transition to a few showers later. High 44F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.. Tonight Partly cloudy. Low 26F. Winds light and variable. On September 18, the aggressor country Russia launched a massive air attack on Ukraine for the second day in a row, this time using cruise missiles. Before dawn, a series of powerful explosions occurred in the Khmelnytsky region. ADVERTISIMENT This was reported by Suspilne correspondents, who emphasized that after the first loud sounds, there were repeated explosions in the region. The local authorities claimed that air defense systems were operating. It should be noted that the air alert began to spread from the east to the west of Ukraine at 03:50 on Monday. The Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported a missile threat in the regions - there was a threat of occupants launching cruise missiles from Tu-95MS aircraft. At about half past six, they warned about the movement of enemy targets in the Khmelnytsky region. Half an hour later, the alarm went off across the country. ADVERTISIMENT Later, the first deputy head of the Khmelnytsky Regional Military Administration, Serhiy Tyurin, confirmed the sounds of explosions in the region and pointed to the work of air defense. "Air defense is working. More information later. Take care of yourself and your loved ones!" the statement reads. As OBOZREVATEL previously reported, on the night of August 19, Russia massively shelled the territory of Khmelnytsky region. The attack damaged 30 houses in several villages, smashed windows and doors in 32, and injured two people. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! The head of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov expressed his belief that the economy of the Russian aggressor country will not last long and the flow of weapons will soon stop there. He also said that the Kremlin would retaliate against attacks on Ukraine's critical infrastructure. ADVERTISIMENT In particular, he named three main goals of drone launches on Russian territory and the temporarily occupied Crimea. He spoke about this in an interview with The Economist. Ukraine's chief intelligence officer said that Russian resources are running out, the economy of the terrorist state will last only until 2025, and the flow of weapons in it will stop in 2026 or "possibly earlier." "If everything is fine and Russia has enough resources, why are they looking for them all over the world? The answer is obvious. There is nothing left to extract," Budanov said, recalling Putin's talks with the DPRK leader. According to him, the Russians will receive a response to the strikes on the critical infrastructure of our country. He emphasized that Ukraine is developing a program of "deterrence and retaliation" to counter the expected winter campaign of missile and drone strikes by the Russian Federation on infrastructure. ADVERTISIMENT "Let them start. They will also get a response," the Main Directorate of Intelligence chief emphasized. In this context, he named three main goals of drone launches into Russia and Crimea: - depletion of the Russian air defense system; - disabling military transport and bombers; - Damage to military production facilities, such as the recent strike on a rocket fuel plant in the Tver region of Russia. In the same interview, Bulanov expressed the opinion that the Ukrainian Armed Forces still have a chance to sever Russia's land connection with Crimea before winter. He emphasized that this is evidenced by the recent success of our soldiers in breaking through the occupiers' defense line. ADVERTISIMENT As OBOZREVATEL reported, earlier Kyrylo Budanov said that the war with Russia would not be long and would not drag on for years, as a number of military and political analysts predict. Based on the data on the aggressor available to the Main Directorate of Intelligence, he pointed out that Russia does not have long-term resources, exhausting itself every day. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! From his bedside, close friend and fellow activist was dragged away for interrogation Crowd of thousands gathered in Tiananmen Square for a pro-democracy rally on May 17, 1989, in Beijing. Prominent Chinese dissident and performance artist Yan Zhengxue, who headed an outspoken group of dissident artists in Beijing during the student-led pro-democracy movement of 1989, is unconscious in hospital under heavy guard by state security police, Radio Free Asia has learned. Prominent Chinese dissident and performance artist Yan Zhengxue is unconscious in the hospital under heavy guard by state security police, Radio Free Asia has learned. Yan, who headed an outspoken group of dissident artists in Beijing during the student-led pro-democracy movement of 1989, is well-known for his sculptures, in particular one of Cultural Revolution-era activist Lin Zhao. Yan is currently on a ventilator and state security police have instituted tight security around his hospital room, interrogating fellow pro-democracy activist Ji Feng and forcing him to leave his friends bedside on pain of death without a burial, a person close to Ji told Radio Free Asia on Monday. He was threatened by the Beijing municipal state security police, the person said. While the reason for Yan's unconscious state wasn't disclosed, those close to him believe he is approaching the end of his life, but without one of his closest friends and fellow dissidents by his side. "[Ji] wont be allowed to visit Yan Zhengxue from now on, and if he dares to speak out again, his mobile phone will be smashed, the person said, quoting state security police threats to Ji during an interrogation at a Beijing guesthouse. Police had treated Ji roughly throughout the interrogation, refused to allow him to record proceedings and kicked the door down when he visited the bathroom, they said. Ji has been taken to his home city of Guizhou in southwestern China, and only Yans wife and daughter are allowed to be with him in hospital, the person said. Beijing-based independent journalist Gao Yu said she had also received news of Jis treatment at the hands of state security police. She said Ji had done nothing wrong in wanting to be with his lifelong friend at the end of his life. Calls to the media center at the Beijing municipal police department were cut off shortly after connection on Monday. He suffered a lot Gao also lauded Yan for continuing to comment on political oppression through his artwork, most notably his sculptures of famous dissidents. "He was arrested more than a dozen times, and sent to prison, specifically one prison sentence and two stints in a labor camp, she said. He suffered a lot." "He was beaten many times, his toes were stamped on and broken, and he was taken to the police station on many occasions, Gao said. But he never gave in. He created a great deal of his work in prison, she said, adding that he was very influential among Chinas dissident artists, particularly the dissident art community in Beijing. Ji Feng once published an article saying that Yan was one of the pioneers of what he termed contemporary free culture in China. Whether inside or outside the high walls [of prison], Yan Zhengxue made art with a prisoner's mentality, Ji wrote. He faced the thick walls of autocracy like a soldier, unwilling to retreat even though he knew they were invincible. He was very much a lone hero. Brother struck by car In 2013, Yan's elderly brother was hit by a car in a near-fatal accident relatives feared could be part of a campaign of political persecution against the artist. The accident took place in Taizhou city in Chinas eastern province of Zhejiang hours after Yan got in a heated confrontation with local officials at the municipal governments complaints bureau. The families of prominent critics of the ruling Chinese Communist Party frequently report discrimination, loss of employment, physical attacks and harassment by law enforcement agencies linked to the dissident's activities. Children of dissidents sometimes find barriers placed in the way of their education, while whole families have reported being held under house arrest and subjected to detentions and beatings. In 1993, Yan Zhengxue was sentenced to "re-education through labor" after he lodged a complaint against the Beijing police department, during which he reported being tortured with electric batons. Following his release in 1996, Yan began rights advocacy work on behalf of disadvantaged groups in China, which led to several bouts of secret detention. He was handed a three-year jail term in 2007 for "incitement to subvert state power." Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster. Hong Kong is entering a new stage, moving from chaos to order and prosperity. Zheng Yanxiong, Director of the Liaison Office of Chinas Central Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region inspects a graduation ceremony at Hong Kong Police College on Sept. 16, 2023. China's envoy to Hong Kong has reviewed a police graduation ceremony for the first time, warning new officers of 'hostile foreign forces' trying to make a comeback, a sign that analysts said shows that Beijing is now firmly in control when it comes to security matters. Zheng Yanxiong, who heads the ruling Communist Partys Central Liaison Office in Hong Kong, reviewed the marching ranks of fresh graduates in a ceremony at the Hong Kong Police College on Saturday. "Hong Kong is entering a new stage, moving from chaos to order and prosperity, Zheng said in his keynote address. Yet there are still hostile foreign forces trying to undermine Hong Kong's development and stability, and there are also anti-China and Hong Kong elements trying to make a comeback. The Chinese and Hong Kong governments have blamed recent waves of mass protest in Hong Kong on incitement by hostile foreign forces seeking to foment a color revolution in the city. In August, security chief Chris Tang blamed the mass protest campaign in 2012 by students -- some of them still in secondary school -- against patriotic education in Hong Kong's schools, the 2014 Occupy Central movement for fully democratic elections, the 2016 "fishball revolution" in Mong Kok and the 2019 movement against extradition to mainland China on the actions of "foreign forces." "Many young people had been radicalized," said Tang, who was chief of police during the 2019 protests. "External forces were up to the same old tricks again." Always resolute Zheng repeated that theme at the weekends ceremony, telling new police college graduates that the Hong Kong Police Force must be determined and always resolutely safeguard national security, strictly implement the Hong Kong National Security Law and local laws, and do our best to build a strong line of defense of national security." Zhengs unprecedented appearance at the ceremony comes after the Communist Party assumed more direct control over national security in Hong Kong in July, in a move commentators said is likely also behind recent attempts to pursue the city's democracy activists overseas and to harass their families. Zheng Yanxiong, Director of the Liaison Office of Chinas Central Government in Hong Kong reviews the marching ranks of fresh graduates at the graduation ceremony at Hong Kong Police College on Sept. 16, 2023. China's envoy to Hong Kong has reviewed a police graduation ceremony for the first time, warning new officers of 'hostile foreign forces' trying to make a comeback. Credit: Hong Kong Government News Network Beijings Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party's Central Committee is now tasked with "deploying the governing power of the central government" in Hong Kong and "maintaining national security," under a security law imposed on Hong Kong in July 2020 that criminalizes public criticism of the authorities by anyone, anywhere in the world. The office is also charged with "supporting" the integration of both cities with the rest of China. Independent political scholar Chen Daoyin said that Beijing, by having Zheng officiate at the police graduation ceremony, appears to be affirming its jurisdiction over Hong Kong. In China, only [President] Xi Jinping has the power to review military parades nobody else is, Chen said. Judging on the basis of the relationship between the central government [in Beijing] and Hong Kong, the director of the Central Liaison Office is essentially the supreme leader [in Hong Kong]. He said Zheng, who won political plaudits for cracking down on the rebel Guangdong village of Wukan amid a bitter land dispute in 2011, comes from a background in law enforcement. Zheng Yanxiong is a policeman himself, and his review of the police force sends a message to the rest of the world about who is the highest-ranking leader in Hong Kong, Chen said. [It tells us that] he is the disciplinary power supervising Hong Kong on behalf of the central government." Political tool Zheng's presence at the parade shows that Beijing is now assuming much more direct control over law enforcement and security in Hong Kong, current affairs commentator Sang Pu said. "This was not just a ceremonial review, Sang said. When he talked about foreign forces and rebellious anti-China elements, he was giving instructions. We see that its the party that is wielding the gun, or the sword, here, he said. The Communist Party, or the Liaison Office, is ruling Hong Kong more directly, and will be putting direct pressure on police officers to obey the orders of the Central Committee, through propaganda. Exiled former pro-democracy lawmaker Ted Hui agreed. "The political messaging here is very strong, Hui said. It officially sets a precedent for the Hong Kong police to do political work. It is a direct recognition of the police force as a weapon to suppress dissidents, and it describes the targeting of political prisoners as an important national political task." Hui said the messaging effectively gives a green light to the police force to use any and all means to achieve this goal. [It means that] the police can use very tough methods to fulfill these tasks and orders, Hui said. The Hong Kong police have become a political tool in the hands of Beijing." Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster. The US$533M deal was announced following PM Anwar Ibrahims weekend meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang. Malaysias deal to double palm oil exports to China annually is a move to offset potential revenue losses from the European Unions ban on commodities that are linked to deforestation, analysts said on Monday. The 2.5 billion ringgits (U.S. $533 million) deal announced Sunday between Malaysias largest palm oil company, Sime Darby Oils International Ltd., and Chinas GuangXi Beibu Gulf International Port Group was part of nearly 20 billion ringgits in investment agreements signed during Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahims one-day visit to Nanning, China. What makes it interesting is the 500,000 tons of palm oil exports, which will undoubtedly secure the interests of smallholders and small-scale palm oil producers, Anwar told reporters at the Nanning Marriott Hotel on Sunday after meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, referring to the total amount Malaysia will export annually under the deal. This is the first time that China has asked for a big increase. Usually, it depends on price rates and considerations, but this time its a fixed import agreement from China. A trading and distribution hub for refined palm oil is to be established in Qinzhou, China, under the memorandum of understanding, Malaysian state news agency Bernama said. To address climate change, European Union regulations prohibit the sale or export of commodities such as palm oil, soy, coffee, cacao and rubber within the EU if they were cultivated on land deforested after 2020. Palm oil is a commodity used in a variety of products from soap to peanut butter. But clearing large tracts of forests for palm oil plantations causes an increase in carbon emissions, which could lead to global warming. Analysts noted that with Malaysias exports to Europe expected to fall, increasing exports to China would help small farmers. For Malaysia, it is a way to address the economic needs of its palm oil industry and smallholders as demand from Europe and elsewhere in the developed world is projected to decline, analyst Chong Ja Ian of the National University of Singapore told BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated news outlet. China mainly secures a commodity to meet its domestic market demands. A farmer collects oil palm fruits from a plantation in Kuala Langat, Selangor, Malaysia, Nov. 12, 2021. Credit: S. Mahfuz/BenarNews An increase in Malaysian palm oil exports to China would be a win-win for both countries, analyst Collins Chong Yew Keat, from the University of Malaya, told BenarNews. China remains pragmatic in securing its own energy needs and interests, he said. The timing is also critical not only for the agenda of Beijing in securing its food security now amidst the start of its economic decline, it is also suited to ensure that the region and Malaysia remain dependent on the Chinese economy and [its] buying power. China made a wise move to diversify its supply and import more from Malaysia to meet domestic demand, said Lee Pei May of the International Islamic University Malaysia. Palm oil is primarily used for food in China, and as economic activities begin to pick up, especially in tourism, it will lead to higher consumption of palm oil, Lee Pei told BenarNews. China did not specifically comment on the palm oil deal in a statement on the State Council website about Li hosting Anwar. In June, the EU, Malaysia and Indonesia agreed to form a task force to implement Europes rule banning commodities linked to deforestation. The announcement came after EU environment chief Florika Fink-Hooijer visited the two Southeast Asian countries to discuss the issue. Indonesia is the worlds largest exporter of palm oil. The task force was expected to focus on commodities such as palm oil, wood, rubber, coffee and cocoa, which are important for both countries economies, said a joint statement from the EU, Indonesias economic ministry, Malaysias trade ministry and a regional palm oil council. BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated news outlet. The head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Andriy Yermak, posted a photo of Ukrainian soldiers holding the national flag and battle banners of their units against the backdrop of a destroyed building. He wrote that "Ukraine always gets its own back." ADVERTISIMENT Yermak did not specify where the photo was taken, but information appeared online that it could have been taken in Klishchiyivka near Bakhmut. Instead, the "Luty" brigade, whose battle flag is in the photo, said that an active assault on the village is still ongoing, so they cannot confirm that Klishchiyivka has come under the control of Ukrainian soldiers. In the photo, in addition to the blue and yellow flag of Ukraine, the defenders also unfurled the battle banners of the Tsunami regiment and the Lut National Police Brigade, which includes this regiment. The network has already suggested that the defenders returned Ukrainian flags to Klishchiyivka: it was near this settlement that the fighters of the "Tsunami" regiment have recently been fighting hard. ADVERTISIMENT In particular, journalist Yuriy Butusov wrote about this. "Our soldiers unfurled the flag of Ukraine and the banners of combat brigades in the village of Klishchiyivka. It is known that fierce fighting has been going on in this village in recent days. There is no official information on the liberation of the village. Klishchiyivka is a very important settlement from a strategic point of view, especially in the context of the further offensive in the Bakhmut direction. It is located on the dominant heights to the south of Bakhmut, which makes it possible to survey the territory and control the movement of enemy forces," noted Butusov. ADVERTISIMENT According to DeepState, the Russians are currently trying to hold the village. "The cleansing of Klishchiyivka continues, the enemy is trying to get a foothold on the edge of the village, because it has media value for them," they said on September 17. There have been no official statements on the possible transfer of Klishchiyivka to the control of the Ukrainian Defense Forces. And the press service of the Lut brigade, whose flag is held by the soldiers in the photo published by Yermak, told Suspilne journalists that active assault operations are underway in Klishchiyivka, so they cannot confirm one hundred percent control over the village as of now. ADVERTISIMENT To recap, the Ukrainian Armed Forces have previously stated that the enemy is withdrawing from Klishchiyivka. For example, on September 6, the head of the press service of the Eastern Military Group, Ilya Yevlash, noted that Ukrainian troops were consolidating their positions on the liberated borders. "The enemy is suffering losses in manpower and equipment on the southern flank near Bakhmut. The enemy continues to retreat. Our defenders are making progress in the Klishchiyivka sector, liberating our land from the occupiers meter by meter. We continue to gain a foothold in the liberated areas," Yevlash emphasized at the time. Foreign ministers visit is seen as a counterbalance to warming ties between Pyongyang and Moscow, say experts. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday began a four-day trip to Russia during which both sides could shore up their strategic ties, a day after Beijings ally and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un concluded a six-day visit to Russias Far East. Wang will be in Russia for the China-Russia strategic security consultation, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement Monday. The top diplomats trip to Russia follows on the heels of Kims high-profile visit to Russia where he and Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed to step up cooperation on multiple fronts from the economy, diplomacy to the military. The Kim-Putin summit came as China did not actively respond to Moscows call in July to conduct a trilateral joint military drill to form a united front against the United States and its allies. Chinas perspective on the strengthening ties between Russia and North Korea is rather multifaceted, said Ji Seong-ho, a North Korean defector-turned-South Korean lawmaker. Beijing must carefully assess how such a development impacts its influence over both North Korea and Russia, as it faces competition with the U.S., Ji said. China has recently been at the receiving end when it comes to calls for diplomatic collaboration from Russia and North Korea. But its domestic challenges, particularly its economic concerns, have inevitably limited its maneuverability, Ji added. It seems China is attempting to assert its role in the region before its too late. Wangs visit could underscore Beijings attempt to reiterate its strategic significance to its longtime neighboring allies, Moscow and Pyongyang, ensuring its influence remains paramount for both nations. In fact, Chinas economic and security interests are largely related to those of its two neighbors. Yet, China could be stuck between a rock and a hard place. It neither wants to be too close to North Korea and Russia, which are under U.N. sanctions regimes, nor too distant as that could translate into its diminished regional clout that weakens its leverage against the U.S. and its allies. Conversely, closer ties between Pyongyang and Moscow may also result in both countries being less dependent on China. North Koreas nuclear provocations have already pushed Chinas neighbors South Korea and Japan to draw closer to Washington. China would most likely feel the strain in its relationship with North Korea right now, said Park Won-gon, an associate professor in the department of North Korean studies at Ewha Womans University. While it doesnt want to see North Korea going nuclear, it also doesnt want to see its influence diminishing. It would be a difficult problem for China. The Kim-Putin summit on Wednesday has triggered the U.S. and its allies, South Korea and Japan, to ratchet up countermeasures. The two leaders vowed to intensify security cooperation that could change regional security dynamics, which could eat into Beijings interests. China has long opposed the emergence of a multilateral security platform in the region, in what it described as a mini-Nato in the Indo-Pacific. The allies collective military prowess is not only seen to surpass that of China, Russia and North Korea put together, it may also deter Beijings expansionist ambitions in the region, including territorial claims in the South China Sea. Taiwans defense ministry said on Monday that since Sunday, it has spotted 103 Chinese Peoples Liberation Army aircraft crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait an unofficial barrier between the two sides that China began crossing in the last few years. China-Russia relations Wangs visit, therefore, may provide an opportunity for Beijing to engage in the regional security matters, whilst potentially gaining an insight into the outcome of any agreements between Kim and Putin. But Ewha Womans Universitys Park is doubtful if Beijing could get additional details. It is less likely that both sides would release anything on the recent development of the North Korea-Russia relations, he said. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping attend a signing ceremony at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia March 21, 2023. Credit: Sputnik/Vladimir Astapkovich/Kremlin via Reuters Chinese President Xi Jinping and Putin called each other dear friends during Xis state visit to Moscow in March, where he pledged solidarity with Russia, to stand guard over the world order based on international law. China has helped safeguard Russia from isolation by the Western democracies after the invasion of Ukraine, by increasing imports of Russian oil, and selling more electronic and computer equipment to the country. The Chinese diplomats visit is also seen as readying the ground for Putins potential trip to Beijing next month for the Belt and Road forum, a platform that showcases the Chinese massive infrastructure-led strategy to seek global dominance. Russias Foreign Ministry said last week that Wang will meet his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov for talks that will cover Ukraine and security in the Asia Pacific region, according to a Monday report by the official news agency, Tass. On Sunday, Wang met U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in Malta for candid substantive, and constructive discussions, both the White House and the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in statements. While the two sides are committed to pursue additional high-level engagement and consultations in key areas in the coming months, Wang, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry statement, stressed that the Taiwan issue is the first red line that must not be crossed in U.S.-China relations. Edited by Taejun Kang and Mike Firn. The junta targeted a monastery in one attack, killing the abbot. The monastery in Kha Yan Sat Kone village, Indaw township, Sagaing region, targeted by a junta airstrike on Sept. 15, 2023 . Myanmars military kept up its campaign of airstrikes even during the controversial ASEAN Air Chiefs conference, to which four countries decided not to send a representative. There were 20 air attacks during the three-day event, locals and ethnic armed groups told Radio Free Asia on Monday. The conference took place from Sept. 13-15 led by junta Air Force chief Gen. Tun Aung. Air Force chiefs from Brunei, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos and Thailand attended, while Singapore and the Philippines sent video messages. Malaysia and Indonesia boycotted the event. Meanwhile the juntas brutal air campaign continued with airstrikes on Sagaing regions Indaw, Pale and Ayadaw townships. The air force also attacked Mogoke township in Mandalay region and Kyaukkyi township in eastern Bago region. In Indaw, junta planes attacked a monastery in Kha Yan Sat Kone village on Friday, following up with a heavy artillery bombardment. The 77-year-old abbot Rajinda and 42-year-old laybrother Win Thein died in the attack, according to a local who didnt want to be named for fear of reprisals. The monastery was bombed by an airplane, the local said. Seconds later, the junta fired a Howitzer at the same monastery killing the abbot Thats why the whole village had to sleep outside the village on the night of September 15. Now they have returned to the village as they have to cremate the abbot. The abbots head was split and the civilian was hit in the chest, said the man, adding that there had been no fighting in the area before the attack. Three junta helicopters carried out 13 airstrikes on villages in Bago regions Kyaukkyi township, according to a Karen National Union statement Friday. More than 5,000 residents from six villages were forced to flee to escape the bombardement, the statement said. A local resident, who didnt want to be named for security reasons, told RFA that people are still unwilling to return to their homes because they are afraid of more airstrikes. They are staying in nearby villages and the forest. On Friday night, a jet fighter fired on a village in Mandalay region's Mogoke township for 15 minutes, residents told RFA Burmese. They said the junta launched the attack following a battle with the Taang National Liberation Army. A spokesperson for the ethnic armed group, Lt. Col. Mong Aik Kyaw, said the junta has stepped up its air campaign recently. We have seen more airstrikes from their side, he said. Now they are attacking civilian targets. Last month, a jet fighter came and attacked Taung Gyaw hill where there was no fighting. He added that since July 23, there have been more than 40 clashes between the junta army and the TNLA. Calls to junta Deputy Information Minister Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun went unanswered. The Air Force chiefs who attended the ASEAN conference in Naypyitaw discussed regional security and cooperation in the fight against terrorism. Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw spokesperson Sithu Maung said all ASEAN members should have boycotted the conference. Airstrikes targeting civilians, not military targets are war crimes and crimes against humanity, said the representative of the committee which is made up of members of the National League for Democracy and other lawmakers ousted in the February 2021 coup. If they attended the conference knowing of this situation it would encourage violence. Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Mike Firn and Taejun Kang. Myanmar military juntas ambassador to China Tin Maung Swe speaks at ASEAN-China forum on peaceful application of nuclear technology in Nanning, China, Sept. 16, 2023. Tin Maung Swe, requested the Chinese government to train Myanmar to be able to use advanced nuclear technology. The Myanmar juntas ambassador to Beijing asked Chinese officials at a weekend ASEAN forum to share advanced nuclear technology, according to a statement from the juntas Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The technology would be used to help Myanmars agriculture, health and energy sectors, the ministry said in a statement on Sunday. The ambassador, Tin Maung Swe, made the request on Saturday at the China-ASEAN Forum for Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Technology in Nanning, China. But political analyst Than Soe Naing said the junta is also trying to achieve its dream of owning nuclear weapons. They must be trying to get nuclear weapons, now that Myanmar is helpless and doesnt have international leverage, he told Radio Free Asia. Therefore, they are looking for a way to own nuclear power under the pretext of the peaceful use of nuclear energy as a first step. The junta announced on Sept. 11 that it had re-established relations with North Korea one of the few countries in the world that possess nuclear weapons and was appointing Tin Maung Swe to also serve as envoy to Pyongyang. Representatives of ASEAN and China clap as they pose for a group photo during ASEAN-China forum on peaceful application of nuclear technology in Nanning, China, on Sept. 16. Credit: Myanmar Ministry of Foreign Affairs Myanmars civilian government cut ties with North Korea five years ago, citing U.N. sanctions over the Norths nuclear weapons program. The junta took power from the civilian government in a coup detat on Feb. 1, 2021. In September 2022, the junta signed an agreement with Russias State Atomic Energy Corporation to jointly assess building a small reactor in Myanmar. The junta announced at the time that it would use nuclear energy for civilian purposes, but Myanmars political opposition and military analysts expressed concern that the technology would be leveraged militarily, given the countrys ongoing internal armed conflict and widespread popular opposition to the junta following the coup. In February, the junta established a Nuclear Technology and Information Center, in cooperation with Russian energy firm Rosatom State Corp., in Myanmars commercial capital Yangon. That announcement came amid enduring suspicions that the military regime has ambitions to acquire nuclear weapons. Translated by Myo Min Aung. Edited by Matt Reed. Bui Tuan Lam, known as Onion Bae, is being denied family visits. Prisoner of conscience Bui Tuan Lam, known as Onion Bae, is being punished after unsuccessfully appealing his five year sentence, his wife told Radio Free Asia. Lam was convicted of spreading propaganda against the state and his sentence was upheld in an appeal last month. His wife, Le Thanh Lam, told RFA Vietnamese that when she visited Lam last week, detention center officials told her all family meetings must be supervised and would therefore take time to arrange. However, following multiple calls to arrange a visit, his wife was told family visits had been suspended because Lam was being disciplined. I asked them why my husband was disciplined, how long he would be disciplined and when my family would be able to see him again, she said. They did not provide any more information. RFA called a police officer named Phong at the Da Nang detention center where Lam is being held. He refused to answer any questions. Im very worried and confused, his wife said. I dont know whether he will be shackled and what the punishment will be like. This is the second disciplinary action since the trial. In just a few months he was disciplined twice [and made to wear] leg shackles. Ms Lam said the family had no information about her husbands health because he was denied access to lawyers before his appeal. Lawyer Le Dinh Viet told her that during the appeal hearing the court denied him any form of communication with his client, even eye contact. Lam is one of dozens of activists imprisoned on charges of anti-state propaganda in recent years. Few of the other prisoners have been disciplined and denied family visits. Lam, 39, campaigned for human rights in Vietnam at the U.N. headquarters in Geneva in 2014. He is a member of the No-U movement, which challenges Chinas Nine Dash Line territorial claims in the South China Sea. He earned the nickname Onion Bae after posting a video mocking Minister of Public Security To Lam, who ate a US$1,800 steak at a restaurant owned by celebrity chef Salt Bae. In Lams video, which went viral, he copies the chefs gesture of dramatically sprinkling salt, instead sprinkling spring onions on a bowl of noodles. Before his trial and appeal, Human Rights Watch called for all charges to be dropped and Lams immediate release. Translated by RFA Vietnamese. Edited by Mike Firn and Elaine Chan. Armita Garavand, the 17-year-old girl fatally injured in an alleged confrontation with Iran's morality police over a head-scarf violation, was buried amid tight security in Tehran on October 29. Unconfirmed reports say several people, including two of Garavands relatives, were arrested during the ceremony at the Behesht-e Zahra cemetery in southern Tehran. Civil rights activist Reza Khandan told RFE/RLs Radio Farda that his wife, prominent human rights lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh, was beaten and detained at the funeral. "A number of participants were arrested and beaten up. Nasrin was among them," Khandan said by phone from Tehran. WATCH: Scores of mourners attended the burial of Iranian teenager Armita Garavand on October 29 in Tehran. Amateur video obtained by RFE/RL shows raw emotions on display at the Behesht-e Zahra cemetery and at a separate funeral ceremony in the Jaberi mosque. A heavy police presence was observed at both places. He added that a number of those detained had been released, although others, including Sotoudeh, remained in detention. He said he hasn't been able to contact her. Irans semiofficial Fars news agency later confirmed that Sotoudeh had been detained, charged with violating the conservative Islamic nation's head-scarf law. Sotoudeh has previously been arrested and jailed after representing opposition activists, including women prosecuted for removing their mandatory headscarves. Video clips published on social media showed a large crowds of people -- both men and women -- attending the burial ceremony. Irans state media had reported Garavands death on October 28, nearly a month after she fell and went into a coma in the Tehran subway. Garavand was reportedly confronted by the morality police in the subway at the start of October for failing to wear a hijab. The news of Garavand's death came just over a year after the death of Mahsa Amini following her arrest by Irans morality police for an alleged head-scarf violation sparked nationwide protests and international condemnation. A relative told Radio Farda that security agents had told the family they would be given Garavand's body under the condition that the burial be held in Tehran and not in their native village in the western province of Kermanshah. "We live in Tehran, but we don't bury our dead [here]. We hope to receive Armita's body, the family member had said. Shortly after the subway incident, authorities isolated Garavand family members and attempted to prevent journalists from reaching them. Security measures were still being enforced as of October 28, fueling speculation that authorities were worried about renewed protests in the country. Rights groups and journalists say Garavand and two of her friends were confronted on October 1 by police officers for not wearing the mandatory hijab as they tried to enter a Tehran subway station. One of the friends has said the officers physically assaulted Garavand, who later fell unconscious after entering a subway carriage. Officials have said Garavand suffered a sudden drop in blood pressure, fainted, and fell to the floor, hitting her head. A source at Fajr Hospital, who spoke to Radio Farda on condition of anonymity due to security reasons, said shortly after the incident that Garavand suffered internal bleeding in the brain. "Unfortunately, she went into a coma for some time after suffering from brain damage. She died a few minutes ago," the official government news agency IRNA said on October 28. Garavand's condition triggered concerns in the West and among international rights groups after a purported video of the incident circulated on social media. The video shows Garavand entering the subway car, but it does not show what exactly transpired in the seconds before her body is shown being carried back out of it. Amnesty International has issued a statement saying authorities should allow an independent international delegation, including UN experts, to investigate the circumstances leading up to Garavand's hospitalization. Tehran has left the request unanswered. The United States on October 29 said it was deeply saddened by the death of Garavand after she was beaten by Iran's morality police for not wearing a hijab in public." Iran's state-sponsored violence against its own people is appalling and underscores the fragility of the regime, White House national-security adviser Jake Sullivan wrote on social media. Garavands case, and suggestions of a cover-up by the authorities, has drawn parallels with the events leading up to the death of 22-year-old Amini last year. Aminis death soon after she was arrested for allegedly violating Irans hijab law triggered the greatest threat to the Islamic republic's leadership since the 1979 revolution. State media has shown Garavand's parents speaking of various potential causes for their daughter's fall and injury. It is not clear if the statements were made under duress, but the Hengaw human rights group, which first reported the incident, said on October 5 that Garavand's mother, Shahin Ahmadi, had been detained temporarily by Iranian government security forces. Earlier this month, Amini and the Women, Life, Freedom movement in Iran that was triggered by her death were awarded this year's Sakharov Prize, the European Parliaments top rights award, the second honor bestowed upon Iranian women this month for their sometimes deadly struggle for human rights after activist Narges Mohammadi won the Nobel Peace Prize. With reporting by dpa BELGRADE -- Strict new rules enforced at a Chinese-operated mine in eastern Serbia have sparked controversy and pushback in the Balkan country over concerns that the company is violating local labor laws. According to an internal document from the Chinese firm Jinshan Construction leaked to Serbian media in mid-August, workers at the site are expected to begin each shift by lining up in formation for inspection by their managers and to greet their supervisors in unison. Employees of Jinshan Construction -- which manages a large copper mine near the eastern town of Majdanpek -- spoke to RFE/RL's Balkan Service and added that these preshift meetings sometimes consist of workers being reprimanded publicly for small infractions and then asked to recite company safety rules. According to the company document, employees are then told to take a "safety oath," in which they vow to follow company regulations to the best of their ability. Workers at the mine, however, told RFE/RL that only Chinese staff participate in taking the public pledge. "We're told to form three lines [to start each shift], it's like the army," a Serbian worker at Jinshan Construction's operation in Majdanpek told RFE/RL under condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals from his employer. News of the stringent rules at the mine has since sparked a backlash in Serbia, with labor groups and unions saying such conditions could be in violation of local laws, such as forcing employees to take an oath and work under hostile conditions. In response to the public pushback, Serbia's Labor, Employment, Veteran, and Social Policy Ministry launched an inspection of Jinshan Construction in August, RFE/RL reported. The controversy has also exposed a growing fissure in Serbia between local and Chinese work cultures and a growing public perception that the country's authorities are turning a blind eye to unlawful labor practices by Chinese firms, which are becoming increasingly vital to the national economy. "All these rules are to keep you in line and get you to think like [the Chinese managers]. You're expected to follow all rules unconditionally. It feels like brainwashing," another Serbian employee at Jinshan Construction told RFE/RL, who said that not participating in these meetings brought the risk of reduced pay or even being fired. 'Testing The Waters' Such sensitivities are particularly relevant when it comes to Serbia's mining sector. Jinshan Construction is a subcontractor that operates the mine on behalf of the Chinese mining giant Zijin, which took control of a money-losing copper smelter in the nearby city of Bor in 2018 and has since opened copper and gold mines across eastern Serbia. Neither Jinshan Construction nor Zijin responded to RFE/RL's requests for comment, but the companies maintain that they follow local labor practices and uphold high standards for their operations in the country. Serbia under President Aleksandar Vucic has enthusiastically welcomed Zijin and other Chinese firms into the country, despite some companies having poor international track records when it comes to labor practices and flouting environmental regulations. While Vucic and other Serbian politicians have praised Zijin and others for helping to keep Serbia's embattled manufacturing base afloat, the companies have since become ensnared in new scandals in recent years over environmental degradation, withheld wages for Serbs, and mistreating Chinese and foreign workers brought to work in the country. Mario Reljanovic, president of the Center for Dignified Work, a Serbian NGO that lobbies for greater labor protections, said in a public letter that the latest controversy illustrated that Zijin and its subsidiary Jinshan Construction clearly feel comfortable running operations in Serbia according to their best interests, whether it is in accordance with the law or not. "It seems that [these companies] have no sense of cultural differences," Reljanovic told the Serbian newspaper Danas. "They [operate] as if they were not in Serbia but still in China, which is our country's own fault." According to figures published in August following the document's leak to Serbian media, Jinshan Construction employs 414 Serbs and 158 Chinese. Zijin has acknowledged the rules outlined in the document but said that they are not applied at the mining sites that it operates in Serbia. "The rules only apply to the employees of the subcontractor company Jinshan Construction," Zijin said in an August 14 press release. Goran Antic, president of the Independent Labor Union of the Majdanpek Copper Mine, told RFE/RL that a similar document had circulated among workers employed directly by Zijin, but the mining giant ultimately decided not to apply them. "It was deemed not in accordance with our legislation and that it is not appropriate because we are neither a police nor a military formation," Antic said. Antic said it was unclear why Jinshan Construction chose to enforce these rules when the larger Zijin decided not to, but he said it was common for the company and its subsidiaries to try "testing the waters" when it comes to applying potentially controversial policies and gauging the reaction from unions. In the case of Zijin, Antic said the backlash from the miners' union was swift when the document was first floated and the company ultimately passed on the policy. In response to the public reaction to Jinshan Construction's new rules for employees, the Serbian Labor, Employment, Veteran, and Social Policy Ministry launched an inspection and said the company did not appear to have violated the law. The ministry told RFE/RL that the deputy director of the company explained to its inspector each of the rules outlined in the document that employees were expected to follow. According to Jinshan Construction, the measures concerned "health and safety of its employees" and "raising employee awareness." In response to its employees being forced to recite an oath -- as outlined in the leaked document -- Jinshan Construction told the ministry that this only applied to its Chinese employees working at the mine, not Serbian citizens. The ministry said its inspections into the company were still ongoing. Past Controversies Such explanations from Jinshan Construction and Zijin are unlikely to satisfy labor activists in Serbia, who remain critical of both companies' practices in the country. Both companies have faced controversies in recent years, especially concerning the treatment of Chinese and other non-Serbian staff. In 2021, Chinese workers employed by Jinshan Construction told RFE/RL they faced restrictions on their movement and endured threats from managers if they went public about the poor work and living conditions they faced in eastern Serbia, including insufficient sanitation and heating at work camps, along with poor-quality food. Several Chinese workers also said their managers said they were forbidden from having any contact with the local Serbian community. Jinshan Construction denied these claims when they were reported. China Labor Watch, a New York-based NGO that advocates for the rights of Chinese workers, told RFE/RL it had received information over the years about a steady stream of labor violations against Chinese workers in Serbia, including the "revocation of passports, nonpayment of wages and overtime, and restrictions on freedom of movement." Another labor controversy unfolded in 2021 involving the Chinese company Linglong, which is building a nearly $1 billion tire factory in Serbia, and poor living conditions for Vietnamese workers brought to help finish the project's construction. As documented through testimony from workers and images shared with local and international media at the time, some 500 Vietnamese laborers were housed in makeshift barracks near the construction site without electricity, hot water, or adequate access to food. Many of the workers also had their passports taken away by their managers after entering Serbia. International human rights groups said the practices amounted to exploitation and, in some cases, human trafficking. Following the media storm, the Vietnamese workers were transferred to a new location with better living conditions and several laborers told RFE/RL at the time their passports were returned to them by their employer. In a major show of defiance, Iranians have staged new anti-government demonstrations in several cities to protest the death of Armita Garavand, who succumbed over the weekend to injuries suffered in an alleged confrontation with Iran's morality police in the Tehran subway over a head-scarf violation. Hours after the student's funeral on October 29, which was marked by the violent arrest of several civil activists, anti-government slogans and graffiti in memory of Garavand again were observed in various cities including Tehran, Karaj, Mashhad, Sari, and Shiraz. In Tehran's Ekbatan neighborhood, which has been one of the epicenters of protests in the Iranian capital over the past year following the September 2022 death of Mahsa Amini while in police custody for an alleged hijab violation, protesters chanted anti-government slogans from windows and rooftops and "Death to Khamenei, the murderer" and "Death to the dictator" -- references to Supreme Leader Ali Ayatollah Khamenei -- echoed through the streets. Such slogans were also heard in several other neighborhoods in Tehran including Amirabad Tehranpars, and Zafar. Protesters also refuted the government's narrative regarding Garavand's death with slogans like "They killed our Armita and blamed it on the hijab." Videos also showed some protesters writing the name "Armita Garavand" and the slogan "Women, life, freedom" on the shores of Bandar Anzali in the northern province of Gilan. Meanwhile, reports of "violence" by security forces during Garavand's funeral have emerged. Reza Khandan, a civil activist and husband of human rights lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh, confirmed his wife's arrest during the funeral. He said that during her arrest, she was severely beaten by security agents. According to Khandan, many of those arrested during Armita Garavand's funeral were held at the Vozara detention center, "the same place where Mahsa Amini was killed by government agents last year." The Fars news agency, which is affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), confirmed Sotoudeh's arrest, claiming she was detained for "removing her hijab and acting against society's mental security." The Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI) said on October 30 that Sotoudeh was released after more than two hours of detention and slammed Iranian authorities for their treatment of those marking Garavand's death. "Beating and arresting unarmed civilians for peacefully mourning yet another death of a young girl in state custody is a continuation of the atrocities the Iranian government is continuously inflicting upon the Iranian people," CHRI Executive Director Hadi Ghaemi said. "These activists were at the funeral because Iranian authorities operate with impunity, killing and detaining people including teenagers for entirely peaceful actions, like showing their hair in public, or raising their voices to demand fundamental rights," he added. The Coordination Council of Iranian Teachers' Unions reported the arrest of Masood Zeinalzadeh, a board member of the Tehran Teachers' Union, during the funeral. The association also announced that Mohammad Garavand, a teachers' rights activist, was arrested by security forces. Rights groups and journalists say Garavand and two of her friends were confronted on October 1 by police officers for not wearing the mandatory hijab as they tried to enter a Tehran subway station. One of the friends has said the officers physically assaulted Garavand, who later fell unconscious after entering a subway car. Officials have said Garavand suffered a sudden drop in blood pressure, fainted, and fell to the floor, hitting her head. A source at Fajr Hospital, who spoke to Radio Farda on condition of anonymity due to security reasons, said shortly after the incident that Garavand suffered internal bleeding in the brain. She succumbed to her injuries on October 28. Since Garavand fell into a coma, Iranian officials have pressured those around the 16-year-old student to avoid talking about the situation or later on commemorating her death. Alborz Sadeghi, the son of Manzar Zarabi, a mother who lost four family members when the IRGC shot down a Ukrainian plane in January 2022, told RFERL's Radio Farda that his mother was arrested after being "severely beaten" during Garavand's burial. Khandan said she had also been released. Garavand's case, and suggestions of a cover-up by the authorities, has drawn parallels with the events leading up to the death of Amini. In recent months, Tehran's municipality has deployed agents known as "hijab guards" in Tehran's subway to confront women and girls failing to wear the mandatory hijab. Written by Ardeshir Tayebi based on an original story in Persian by RFE/RL's Radio Farda Ukrainian volunteers are making low-cost DIY camouflage nets that are being used to safeguard soldiers and conceal expensive weapon systems. Many of them learned the craft from Olesia Koryahina, one of the founders who popularized the movement. For nearly a decade, she has helped lead a web of predominantly female volunteers dedicated to masking Ukrainian forces from Russian reconnaissance. The women claim to have woven tens of thousands of square meters of the protective netting for soldiers on the front line. There has been a 20 per cent rise in the number of women now enrolling at the Uganda Petroleum Institute to work in the oil and gas industry. This is the highest percentageover the last two yearsever witnessed in the country, as young people seek to get the qualifications required to provide technical skills to the countrys growing oil and gas sector. In total, some 4,000 Ugandan men and women are presently studying engineering at the countrys universities and technical institutes, with a growing number of the places financed directly by the government and the oil companies working in the country to ensure the countrys skill set expands to meet the sectors rising demand. Tony Kato, President of Ugandas Society of Petroleum Engineers, welcomed the increased number of students focusing on engineering and highlighted how the oil and gas boom was helping drive the numbers. He said: There is an excitement in Uganda at present around the opportunities that the oil and gas development is bringing, and we can see this in the number of young people wanting to get involved. Under our legislation, oil and gas companies are legally required to employ Ugandans and they should be holding all leadership positions by 2040. Therefore, there are huge opportunities here for the students of today to become the industry leaders of tomorrow, whatever sex they are. Although the number of female Ugandan engineers has historically been lower, women have still risen to the top in the sector in the company. For example, the Uganda National Oil Company is headed by Proscovia Nabbanja, a geologist with several degrees in petroleum sciences. A National Oil and Gas Talent Register has been established that students seeking employment can sign up to, and the Chinese National Offshore Oil Company recently paid for young Ugandans to qualify in pipeline and refinery construction. Most of the heavy lifting done in engineering, both in school and at work, is with the brain. There are therefore no gender limitations," said Diana Kakwera a Process Engineer with the Petroleum Authority of Uganda. Under the governments National Content policy to upskill its young workforce, bursaries have been provided for courses including petroleum geosciences, petroleum engineering, petroleum economics and petroleum law as well as in oil and gas trades such as welding, fabrication, plumbing and installation. Specialist training institutes, such as the Uganda Petroleum Institute in Kigumba and the Uganda Technical College in Kichwamba, are also providing bespoke courses, while other Ugandan universities and colleges have started to offer internationally accredited courses. The technical-focused courses at the Uganda Petroleum Institute where the rise in women has been particularly noteworthy focuses on the oil and gas trades such as welding and electrical work. Rahma Nantogo, 24, and from Kyanja district in Ugandas capital Kampala who graduated this year from Makerere University, said: The workload was one of the main challenges we faced during this study programme but it has been an experience tailored to enable us to handle the challenges of the sector. It was hard work but it gave me the necessary expertise to carry out operations. Now I am looking forward to being part of these efforts to sustainably exploit Ugandas oil and gas. This year, the number of people employed in the oil and gas sector reached more than 12,000 people, Petroleum Authority of Uganda figures show, with 96 per cent of them Ugandans. Uganda is developing oil and gas reserves in the Albertine Graben region, with first oil due to be pumped by 2025. The 1,445-km East Africa Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) is being built to transport the natural resource from Uganda through Tanzania for export. It is estimated that this pipelie will provide a boost of more than $40 billion to the Ugandan economy during the next 25 years, bringing a potentially transformative impact for Ugandans and the countrys economy at large. When production is at its peak, the Uganda government will receive an anticipated $1-$2 billion a year in revenue from the development. This is over and above the benefits that will be realised through participation of Ugandans in oil activities and linking oil and gas to other sectors of the economy. --OGN / TradeArabia News Service On September 17, the Ukrainian Defense Forces liberated the village of Klishchiyivka south of Bakhmut and continued successful offensives in other areas of the Bakhmut sector. They also conducted limited ground attacks on the Avdiivka-Donetsk line and advanced further east of Krasnohorivka. ADVERTISIMENT The occupiers, having lost control of their positions, tried to counterattack but did not achieve any confirmed success. The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) analyzed the course of the battle. The battle for Klishchivka The village of Klishchiyivka is located 7 km southwest of Bakhmut. The day before, the spokesman for the Eastern Group of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Captain Ilya Yevlash, said that Ukrainian forces had liberated the village. Throughout the day, the military itself published several videos confirming the statement. According to analysts, Ukraine's official statements about the liberation indicate that the Defense Forces are operating freely in the village. Currently, Russian pro-war bloggers deny that Ukrainian forces have liberated Klishchiyivka and claim that the Ukrainian Armed Forces "control only the southern and central parts" of the village. At the same time, one propagandist noted that Russian troops "have entrenched themselves near the railroad to the east and northeast" of the village, but do not hold positions in the village itself. ADVERTISIMENT Footage published on September 17 shows Ukrainian troops shelling the occupiers on the outskirts of Klishchiyivka and forcing them to retreat. Additional geolocation footage posted the day before shows that the Ukrainian Armed Forces have also advanced east of Orikhovo-Vasylivka (11 km northwest of Bakhmut). Bloggers from the Russian Federation claimed that their troops "repelled several Ukrainian attacks" on the northern flank of Bakhmut and that fighting continued near Andriivka, a Ukrainian-liberated village 10 km southwest of the fortress city, which they said was a disputed "gray zone." The ISW emphasized that on September 17, Russian troops counterattacked in the area of Bakhmut, but did not achieve any confirmed success. The Ukrainian General Staff reported that the Ukrainian Armed Forces repelled five attacks by the occupiers near Klishchiyivka and Bila Hora (14 km southwest of Bakhmut), and also repelled counterattacks by Russian troops near Andriivka and Kurdyumivka (13 km southwest). ADVERTISIMENT Russian bloggers only claim that the Russian Armed Forces are counterattacking near Klishchiyivka and are unsuccessfully trying to force Ukrainian forces out of their positions near Bohdanivka (7 km northwest). Captain Ilya Yevlash of the Ukrainian Armed Forces said that 52,000 troops of the Russian aggressor country's army have been deployed to the Bakhmut direction. Ukrainian Armed Forces advance towards Krasnohorivka It is noted that on September 17, Ukrainian troops conducted limited ground attacks on the Avdiivka-Donetsk front line and advanced. Geolocated footage published on September 16 shows that the Ukrainian Armed Forces moved further east of Krasnohorivka (22 km southwest of Avdiivka). At the same time, the Russian Ministry of Defense claimed that units of the Russian Southern Military Group "repelled an attack by the Ukrainian army" in the area of Maryinka (27 km southwest of Avdiivka). ADVERTISIMENT As reported by OBOZREVATEL, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the US Army General Mark Milley said that the Ukrainian counteroffensive is "slower than expected, but consistent." According to him, the Ukrainian army will need a lot of time to achieve its goal. Only verified information on our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Pendragon Plc (PDG.L), a British car dealers firm, and Lithia Motors, Inc. (LAD), an automotive retailer in North America, announced on Monday that they agreed to a proposed sale by Pendragon Group Holdings Limited of Pendragon NewCo 2 Limited, which holds the company's entire UK motor and leasing business to Lithia UK Holding Limited, a unit of Lithia Motors, for 250 million pounds. Pendragon and Lithia Motors have also agreed the terms of a strategic partnership with Lithia, including the rollout of Pinewood, the company's dealer management software business, to Lithia's existing 50 UK sites and the creation of a joint venture to accelerate Pinewood's entry into the highly attractive North American DMS market. This is supported by a subscription by Lithia for 279,388,880 new shares in the company for an aggregate subscription price of 30 million pounds. As part of the deal, Pendragon's Pinewood division, which operates the company's proprietary DMS business, will become a standalone entity, retaining Pendragon's existing LSE listing and creating a pure play Software as a Service business with an accelerated growth plan. Pendragon expects that the transaction will deliver a cash dividend of around 240 million pounds. With this, the UK motor business, consisting of Evans Halshaw, Stratstone and Car Store, and Pendragon Vehicle Management, Pendragon's leasing business, will be sold to Lithia for a cash consideration of 280 million pounds. As part of the transaction, expected to be closed in the fourth-quarter, Pendragon shareholders will initially receive, either directly through the transaction dividend or via their retained interest in Pendragon of around 27.4 pence per share with further expected significant upside. This compares to a share price of circa 18.5 pence as of September 15. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Amazon.com, Inc.'s Prime Big Deal Days are here on October 10 and 11, offering Early Holiday Deals exclusively for Prime members. Beginning on October 10 at 3 a.m. EDT, Prime members can start their shopping early this upcoming season. Along with the United States, Prime Big Deal Days are available in 18 other countries, such as Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, and the UK. Prime members in Japan can shop the Prime Big Deal Days event later in the month. Members can access deep discounts on seasonal deals from brands like Dyson, Sony, Barbie, SharkNinja, iRobot, LG, Peloton, Jabra, and Betty Buzz by Blake Lively, among others. New deals will be dropping as often as every five minutes during select periods throughout the event across a wide selection of products. It will also provide fast and convenient delivery options. Amazon said it will make it easier for Prime members to find interested deals with personalized recommendations based on past purchases, browsing history, and items saved to their Lists. The company is offering various Prime member exclusive deals now, including deep discounts. Amazon's Toys We Love list features more than 200 items from top brands like LEGO, Mattel, and Disney. They will get access to deals from independent sellers like Ruggable x Jonathan Adler, Urban Decay, and PicassoTiles. Customers can join Prime or start a free trial at amazon.com/primebigdealdays and get the most out of shopping on Amazon. Jamil Ghani, vice president of Amazon Prime, said, "Members can shop deals across categories like fashion, home, and toys that include some of our most popular items during Prime Big Deal Days. They can also take advantage of other exciting Prime member benefits, like shopping favorite brands beyond Amazon.com with Buy with Prime and accessing doorbuster deals with Invite-only deals." With the Small Business badge and the new Small Business filter, customers can find products from many small brands and artisans in Amazon's store. There are some early deals from small businesses like Lyrically Correct, Beard Club, RMS Beauty, Kreyol Essence, and Mighty Paw, along with other Black-owned, women-owned, and military-family-owned small business brands and independent artisans. Further, Amazon's newly launched Holiday Shop offers low prices on essentials and unique gifting. From October 2-12, eligible Prime cardmembers can earn an additional 5 percent back, for a total of 10 percent, on select products including Amazon devices, like Echo, Ring, and Fire TV devices. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced that he would sign a bill requiring major companies to publicly disclose their carbon footprints. The Democratic Governor announced his intention to sign Senate Bill 253, the nation's first comprehensive greenhouse gas emissions disclosure requirement, at the opening ceremony of Climate Week NYC. The first of its kind legislation in the United States that could have national and international repercussions was passed by the California Senate last week. The state is home to many global corporations. The law will require any public or private company earning more than $1 billion in annual revenue that operates in California to publicly disclose the greenhouse gas emissions released from their operations and supply chain. The announcement comes one day after Governor Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced a landmark case against five Big Oil companies for misleading the public about the catastrophic dangers of climate change. A recent study has found that mandatory disclosures could cut total corporate emissions 70 percent by pushing laggard companies to reduce CO2 emissions to the median level of their industry. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Armenia began flirting with new international partners as it realized that Russia, which had been one of its main security guarantors for many years, was no longer able to protect it amid strained relations with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh. Yerevan is disappointed in Moscow and has to admit that it was a mistake to trust this country. ADVERTISIMENT This is stated in the material of CNN. Recently, relations between the two countries have changed. And this could be a turning point for Yerevan. The journalists reminded that the US military recently arrived in Armenia to train peacekeepers, which caused a negative reaction in Russia, which for decades has been the only guarantor of security for the former Soviet republic. This may indicate that Yerevan is leaving the sphere of Moscow's sole influence. In addition, Yerevan sent humanitarian aid to Ukraine, which is suffering from a full-scale Russian invasion. The country also plans to ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. According to it, the country will be obliged to arrest Russian dictator Vladimir Putin if he comes. "Armenia's flirtation with new international partners has been fueled by its frustration that Russia has been unable or unwilling to protect it from what it sees as aggression by neighboring Azerbaijan, and has raised questions about Russia's ability to maintain control over countries and conflicts in the former Soviet Union," the newspaper writes. ADVERTISIMENT "Armenia's security architecture was 99.999% connected to Russia. But today we see that Russia itself needs weapons... Even if it wants to, Russia cannot meet Armenia's needs," Armenian President Nikol Pashinyan said recently. The 44-day war between Armenia and Azerbaijan in the fall of 2020 for control of Nagorno-Karabakh exposed Armenia's military inferiority. Azerbaijan, using drones and F-16 fighters, won a crushing victory, claiming about a third of Nagorno-Karabakh's territory. Then Russia helped end the war by agreeing to a ceasefire. The agreement provided for the deployment of about 2,000 Russian peacekeepers in Nagorno-Karabakh to guard the Lachin corridor. However, the Russian peacekeepers did not prevent Azerbaijani troops from setting up military checkpoints along this territory, preventing the import of food into the Armenian enclave. ADVERTISIMENT According to Vahram Ter-Matevosyan, an associate professor of foreign policy at the American University of Armenia, Russia's inability or unwillingness to intervene has caused many in Yerevan to feel betrayed. "Armenia has invested 30 years of its independence - I would even say 200 years of its recent history - in the firm belief that when the time comes and when it is needed, Russia will fulfill its strategic obligations and protect Armenia from any external aggression. This did not happen in 2020, 2021, or 2022," he said. This loyalty has entailed many losses of Armenia's interests. "Over the last 30 years, Armenia has done almost everything Russia wanted," the expert said, adding that this included, for example, the suspension of the country's European integration efforts in 2013 after Moscow expressed its dissatisfaction. ADVERTISIMENT Yerevan has long danced to Moscow's tune and waited for the fulfillment of security obligations that Russia allegedly fulfills through the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). But in recent years, analysts say, a trail of unfulfilled promises has emerged. "Russia failed to fulfill its promises on the security of the Lachin corridor... Russia failed to deliver the weapons that Armenia purchased from Russia, Russia failed to stop Azerbaijan's expansionist and aggressive behavior against Armenia," Ter-Matevosyan listed. In response, he said, Armenia felt it had no choice but to diversify its security apparatus. According to the article, it is still unclear whether Armenia's efforts are aimed at creating new international partnerships or are solely its attempts to strengthen its security and establish broader relations with the West. ADVERTISIMENT "For Armenia, as a small country, it is quite risky to make a U-turn or a big geopolitical leap," said Anna Ohanyan, an expert on Russian foreign policy at Stonehill College in Massachusetts. According to her, instead of completely severing ties with Russia, Armenia is simply "diluting" its influence. However, even these modest steps can put Armenia on a path that is difficult to turn back from. "If Putin woke up tomorrow and suddenly started providing some specific security guarantees, I don't think Armenia's foreign policy would change," Ohanyan said. As OBOZREVATEL previously reported, Pashinyan has once again said that his country can no longer consider Russia a guarantor of its security amid strained relations with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh. Since the full-scale deployment of troops to Ukraine, the Kremlin has been permanently losing ground and weakening, which cannot but affect its attitude toward its former allies. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information on our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Don't fall for fakes! Five American citizens imprisoned for years in Iran are reportedly flying back home as part of a prisoner swap deal with the United States. In return, Washington will release five Iranians jailed in the United States. As per the deal, Washington agreed to transfer $6 billion worth of frozen Iranian assets, earned from selling oil to South Korea, to multiple banks in Doha. The freed Americans, who also possess Iranian passports, are heading to Qatar aboard a Qatar Airways aircraft. The U.S .government has designated them as being wrongfully detained by the Iranian regime. From Qatar's capital Doha, they will board a flight to Washington later, CNN reported, quoting a senior U.S. administration official. Two of the five Iranians, released by the U.S., have arrived in Qatar, while the three others preferred not to return to their homeland, according to reports. The prisoner swap comes after prolonged and complex negotiations between the two hostile nations, who do not have formal diplomatic relations. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Washington has warned that any nuclear attack by North Korea against the United States or its allies will result in the end of the Kim Jong Un regime. The United States also reaffirmed its ironclad commitment to the defense of South Korea, leveraging the full range of U.S. military capabilities including advanced non-nuclear, nuclear, conventional, and missile defense capabilities. This was stated in a joint statement by the U.S. Department of Defense and South Korea's Ministry of National Defense after holding the 23rd Korea-U.S. Integrated Defense Dialogue in Seoul on Monday. Since last year, North Korea intensified its escalatory actions through a record number of ballistic missile launches and its continued rhetoric regarding the use of nuclear weapons. Earlier this year, North Korea publicly stated its intent to further expand and enhance its nuclear and missile programs. The latest provocation by North Korea came last month when its attempt to put a spy satellite into space failed as a rocket carrying it crashed into the sea. During the Security Policy Initiative session, the United States and South Korea reaffirmed their shared goal of the complete denuclearization of North Korea. They pledged to continue strengthening combined defense posture and capabilities to defend the South as well as deter conflict on the Peninsula. To this effect, the two sides assessed that the Ulchi Freedom Shield 23 (UFS23) exercise significantly improved the Alliance's crisis management and all-out war execution capabilities. The exercise was conducted last month under a realistic operational environment that reflected Pyongyang's advancing nuclear and missile threats as well as the possibility of a rapid transition to wartime. They also assessed that UFS23, in conjunction with more than 30 intensive Warrior Shield field training exercises, enhanced combined operation execution capabilities. Based on these outcomes, the two sides pledged to further strengthen combined exercises and training to stay responsive to the rapidly changing security environment on the Korean Peninsula. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Political News Oil futures settled higher on Monday, rising for a third straight session, as prices moved up amid tightening global crude supplies. Prospects of higher demand and a weak dollar also contributed to the increase in oil prices. West Texas Intermediate Crude oil futures for October ended higher by $0.71 or about 0.8% at $91.48 a barrel, the highest settlement this year. Brent crude futures were up $0.47 or about 0.5% at $94.40 a barrel a little while ago. With Saudi Arabia and Russia deciding earlier this month to extend their voluntary output cuts till the end of the year, oil prices have been climbing higher. Recent economic data showing an uptick in industrial production in China has raised hopes about the demand outlook from the world's second largest . Industrial production jumped 4.5% in August versus the previous month's readings that stood at 3.7%. Markets had expected a spike of 3.9%. Likewise retail sales in August jumped to 4.6% following the previous reading of 2.5% and expectations of 3%. The stimulus measures already announced by the Chinese government as well as expectations of more to come abetted the positive demand outlook for crude oil. Last week, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) issued updated forecasts of solid demand and pointed to a potential 2023 supply deficit if production cuts persist. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Market Analysis The former Polish government planned to occupy a third of the country in the event of a Russian attack. This plan was approved in 2011. ADVERTISIMENT This was reported by the ruling "Law and Justice" party on Twitter. On the eve of the election, the political force released a video showing a secret document from the Ministry of Defense in 2011, which contained a plan for Poland's defense in the event of a Russian invasion (to watch the video, scroll to the bottom of the page). The plan was for the Polish army to leave the borders and retreat beyond the Vistula River, meaning that it would effectively surrender 30% of Poland's territory. Russian troops were supposed to hold the Vistula River for 10-14 days until NATO reinforcements arrived. Thus, in the video, the current Minister of Defense Mariusz Baszczak claims that back in 2011, the then head of the Ministry of Defense Bogdan Klich approved a plan to defend against a possible Russian invasion. It stipulated that the country's independent defense would last no more than two weeks, and after seven days the enemy would reach the right bank of the Vistula River, which flows through the center of the country, including Warsaw. ADVERTISIMENT The video shows photos of fragments of this plan for the defense of the country. Their authenticity was confirmed by former Polish General Mirosaw Rozanski. This video largely discredits the main political rivals of the ruling "Law and Justice" party from Donald Tusk's Civic Platform (Prime Minister of Poland 2007-2014) and undermines the credibility of this political party, whose members approved the defense plan. "The Civic Platform is angry that we have revealed their plans to hand over half of Poland to the enemy... You were preparing a repeat of Bucha and Irpin and wanted to turn Warsaw into a frontline city!" said Baszczak. ADVERTISIMENT This political scandal occurred in Poland against the backdrop of the upcoming parliamentary elections. Both the current ruling party "Law and Justice" and the Civic Platform are running in the elections. The elections will be held on October 15, 2023. They will elect 560 members of the National Assembly (parliament) - 460 members of the Sejm (lower house) and 100 members of the Senate (upper house). As reported by OBOZREVATEL, despite the European Commission's decision to lift restrictions on the import of Ukrainian grain on September 15, Poland will continue to block imports of Ukrainian agricultural products. This was stated by Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki. Only verified information on our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Egypt condemned in the strongest terms Israels airstrike Tuesday on Gazas Jabalia refugee camp that left hundreds of Palestinians dead or injured as a flagrant violation of international law, according to a statement by the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The brain-encysting lancet liver fluke Dicrocoelium dendriticum induces Formica polyctena ants to climb and bite to vegetation by the mandibles in a state of temporary tetany, making it more likely to be eaten by grazers such as cattle and deer. According to new research, Dicrocoelium dendriticum can even get the ants to crawl back down the blade of grass when it gets too hot. Once Dicrocoelium dendriticum infects a Formica polyctena ant, several hundred parasites invade the ants body. But only one makes its way to the brain, where it can influence the ants behavior. The rest of the liver flukes conceal themselves in the ants abdomen. There can be hundreds of liver flukes waiting for the ant to get them into their next host, said Dr. Brian Lund Fredensborg, a researcher at the University of Copenhagen. They are wrapped in a capsule which protects them from the consequent hosts stomach acid, while the liver fluke that took control of the ant, dies. You could say that it sacrifices itself for the others. Animals infected with many liver flukes can suffer liver damage as the parasite moves around the hosts liver and bile ducts. Over 13 non-consecutive days during one year in the Bidstrup Forests near Roskilde, Denmark, Dr. Fredensborg and his colleague, Wageningen University Ph.D. student Simone Nordstrand Gasque, observed a total of 1,264 individual ants expressing the modified behavior. They then individually marked a subset of 172 infected ants. It took some dexterity to glue colors and numbers onto the rear segments of the ants, but it allowed us to keep track of them for longer periods of time, Dr. Fredensborg explained. The authors then observed the infected ants behavior in relation to light, humidity, time of day and temperature. It was clear that temperature had an effect on ant behavior. When the temperature was low, the ants were more likely to be attached to the top of a blade of grass. When the temperature rose, the ants relinquished the grass and crawled back down. Getting the ants high up in the grass for when cattle or deer graze during the cool morning and evening hours, and then down again to avoid the suns deadly rays, is quite smart, said Dr. Brian Lund Fredensborg, a researcher at the University of Copenhagen. Our discovery reveals a parasite that is more sophisticated than we originally believed it to be. There are many other examples of parasites that alter animal behavior. As such, parasites that hijack their hosts behavior have a greater hand in the food chain than many might think. Our new study sheds light on an extremely underrated group of creatures, Dr. Fredensborg said. Historically, parasites have never really been focused on that much, despite there being scientific sources which say that parasitism is the most widespread life form. This is in part due to the fact that parasites are quite difficult to study. Nevertheless, the hidden world of parasites forms a significant part of biodiversity, and by changing the hosts behavior, they can help determine who eats what in nature. Thats why theyre important for us to understand. The findings were published in the journal Behavoral Ecology. _____ Simone Nordstrand Gasque & Brian Lund Fredensborg. Expression of trematode-induced zombie-ant behavior is strongly associated with temperature. Behavioral Ecology, published online August 24, 2023; doi: 10.1093/beheco/arad064 On September 14, 2023, the NASA Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena independent study team published its final report containing a series of recommendations for how the agency could help to move our understanding of unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) forward. UAP, popularly known as UFOs, are one of our planets greatest mysteries. Observations of objects in our skies that cannot be identified as balloons, aircraft, or natural known phenomena have been spotted worldwide, yet there are limited high-quality observations. The nature of science is to explore the unknown, and data are the language scientists use to discover our Universes secrets. Despite numerous accounts and visuals, the absence of consistent, detailed, and curated observations means, scientists do not presently have the body of data needed to make definitive, scientific conclusions about UAP. In 2022, NASA commissioned the independent study to better understand how the agency can contribute to ongoing government efforts to further the study observations of UAP. The independent study team, set up outside of NASA, used unclassified data from civilian government entities, commercial data, and data from other sources to inform their findings and recommendations in the report. There are currently a limited number of high-quality observations of UAP, which currently make it impossible to draw firm scientific conclusions about their nature. The teams report contains the findings and recommendations which aim to inform NASA on what possible data is available to be collected and how the agency can help shed light on the origin and nature of future UAP. While NASA still is evaluating the report and assessing the independent study teams findings and recommendations, the agency is committed to contributing to the federal governments unified UAP effort by appointing Mark McInerney director of UAP research. At NASA, its in our DNA to explore and to ask why things are the way they are. I want to thank the Independent Study Team for providing insight on how NASA can better study and analyze UAP in the future, said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. NASAs new Director of UAP Research will develop and oversee the implementation of NASAs scientific vision for UAP research, including using NASAs expertise to work with other agencies to analyze UAP and applying artificial intelligence and machine learning to search the skies for anomalies. NASA will do this work transparently for the benefit of humanity. The overall recommendation for NASA from the new report is that the agency can play a prominent role in the governments effort to understand UAP by furthering the study and data collection of UAP. The external study recommends that NASA use its open-source resources, extensive technological expertise, data analysis techniques, federal and commercial partnerships, and Earth-observing assets to curate a better and robust dataset for understanding future UAP. NASA also will advance citizen reporting by engaging with the public and commercial pilots to build a broader, more reliable UAP dataset to use to identify future UAP incidents as well as destigmatize the study of UAP. Using unclassified data was essential for our teams fact-finding, open-communication collaboration, and for upholding scientific rigor to produce this report for NASA, said David Spergel, president of the Simons Foundation and chair of the UAP independent study team. The team wrote the report in conjunction with NASAs pillars of transparency, openness and scientific integrity to help the agency shed light on the nature of future UAP incidents. We found that NASA can help the whole-of-government UAP effort through systematic data calibration, multiple measurements and ensuring thorough sensor metadata to create a data set that is both reliable and extensive for future UAP study. Data are the critical lifeblood needed to advance scientific exploration, and we thank the independent study team members for lending NASA their expertise towards identifying what available data is possible to understand the nature and origin of future UAP, said Nicola Fox, associate administrator of Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters. The director of UAP Research is a pivotal addition to NASAs team and will provide leadership, guidance and operational coordination for the agency and the federal government to use as a pipeline to help identify the seemingly unidentifiable. A huge shark was spotted stranded on a beach in Florida. The beachgoers rescued it by helping it get back into the water. Giant Shark Stranded A longfin mako shark looked distressed when it was washed up along the shores at Pensacola Beach on Sept. 14. Tina Fey captured the incident and shared it on Facebook. The clip shows several men who rushed to help the sea creature. According to her, the shark suddenly showed up on the shore while they were swimming. They contacted wildlife rescue and lifeguards and were told they couldn't help. The group decided to take some action to help the shark. In the footage, the beachgoers can be seen gripping the mako by the tail and dragging it back into the ocean. The shark reacted violently as if it didn't want anyone to get a hold of him. In the latter part of the clip, the longfin mako can be seen swimming back into the ocean. Another man said they saw the shark approaching the beach at a "fast speed," and it got stuck on the sand. They witnessed how it struggled to get back into the water. The woman who caught the video said they decided to take charge to help the poor shark. The agitated shark dwarfed the men and even threw the rescuers aside. It also chomped the air several times, showing off its scary teeth. Eventually, the shark was reportedly very still, with some wondering if it was still alive. However, after a few moments, it swam away. The people were overjoyed and cheered on it. ALSO READ: Great White Sharks Heading to Ireland, Cornwall in Search for Food, Experts Warn Longfin Mako vs Shortfin Mako Sharks Mako sharks have two species - longfin and shortfin. They are known for their sharp teeth and incredible speed, with the shortfin mako being the fastest shark in the ocean. They can swim up to 60 miles per hour to hunt their prey with agility and precision. Due to their distinctive morphology, longfins are believed to be significantly slower and less active than shortfins and their other white shark relatives, such as the porbeagle and blue shark. Longfin mako sharks are also considered endothermic (warm-blooded) and capable of maintaining a body temperature higher than the water around them. However, this temperature elevation has not yet been measured. They are not typically aggressive towards humans and will usually swim away if they feel threatened. Between the two, shortfin mako sharks are known for being aggressive. Longfin mako is rare and more elusive than its counterpart. They can only be found in certain parts of the world. Longfin mako sharks are regarded as endangered due to their low reproduction rates and decreased abundance. The amount of longfin mako sharks caught by commercial fisheries is unknown. However, shortfin mako sharks, whose population has significantly decreased globally, frequently use the same fishing equipment as longfin mako sharks, suggesting that the longfin population may have experienced a similar decline. RELATED ARTICLE: Sharks Sleep Too But With Both Eyes Open, Contrary to Their Reputation of Being Always on the Move Check out more news and information on Sharks in Science Times. Savings and retirement group Phoenix lifted its interim dividend by 5% after smashing forecasts with cash generation in the first half. The company said it is now on track to deliver positive group net fund flows from 2024 for the first time in its history. New business net fund flows amounted to 3.1bn in the six months to 30 June, up from 1.8bn in the first half of 2022. Incremental new business long-term cash generation, an important measure of future profitability, jumped 106% year-on-year to 885m. According to analysts' consensus estimates compiled by the company, the market was expecting a figure closer to 519m. The beat was a result from a huge jump from its Retirement Solutions division, to 665m from 282m, and 220m from its capital-light fee-based business, up from 148m previously. Total cash generation fell to 898m, from 950m the year before, but still well ahead of the 733m expected by analysts. Phoenix said it is confident of delivering cash generation at the top end of the 1.3-1.4bn target range for 2023 as a whole. One red flag was the Solvency II shareholder capital coverage ratio, which represents the amount of funds that insurance and reinsurance companies are required to hold by law. This slipped to 180%, from 189% at the end of 2022, though Phoenix reassured that it remains at the top end of the 140-180% target range. Nevertheless, Phoenix raised its interim dividend to 26p per share, up from the 24.8p payout in the first half of 2022. "We are delivering strong organic growth, with new business long-term cash more than doubling to 885 million in the first half," said chief executive Andy Briggs. "We also grew inorganically, with the completion of the Sun Life of Canada UK acquisition, with c.20% of the purchase price received in cash generation in just three months, and we are confident of executing further M&A over time." Investors are now backing Labour , dealing a blow to the Prime Minister's efforts to rebuild the Tories reputation for sound money. Two thirds of money managers and traders canvassed by Bloomberg said that the best outcome for markets from the next election would be either a Labour government or a coalition led by Labour.Four fifths of those polled said that confidence in British assets had yet to recover from the mini-Budget crisis under Liz Truss. - The Sunday Telegraph British Land is getting ready to test the market's appetite for prime shopping centres with the sale of Meadowhall in Sheffield for 750m. If successful, the sale of the shopping centre, which is half owned by Norges, Norway's sovereign wealth fund, would mark one of the largest transactions of the last decade. The sale was expected to kick off in the coming weeks. That asking price nonetheless implies that Meadowhall's value has roughly halved since 2012 when Norges bought in. - The Sunday Times At 227.4p, shares of Rolls Royce are within a whisker of where they stood in February 2020, before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. The post-Covid surge in international air travel has boosted business while heightened geopolitical tensions have served to boost defence outlays. In parallel, the company has raised prices, cut costs and disposed of non-core assets. Furthermore, one analyst believes talk that its boss, Tufan Erginbilgic, might jump ship for BP is premature. - The Financial Mail on Sunday STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. A West Brighton homeowner sentenced to prison over a scary stash of firearms and 3D printers had tried to do the right thing years prior, his attorney said this week. Adam Simmons, 43, of Delafield Place, was sentenced last week to two years in prison followed by two years of post release supervision after pleading guilty to second-degree attempted criminal possession of a weapon in connection with a Jan. 12 arrest. Police called to the house for a separate family emergency uncovered a cache of unregistered assault rifles and other firearms, along with 3D printers known to be used for the manufacturing of untraceable ghost guns. According to Simmons attorney, Marion Campbell with the Legal Aid Society, the case couldve been prevented years prior when her client and his wife tried to dispose of the small arsenal without repercussion after wanting out of a prior gun business. Simmons, a former New Jersey resident, told the same story to police at the time of his arrest, claiming the precinct was no help, according to an NYPD spokesperson. It is a sad reality that many people do not know how to safely and legally get rid of unregistered or unwanted firearms, said Campbell. I hope that the district attorney will work with the NYPD to offer more gun disposal and buy-back programs to ensure that those who voluntarily dispose of firearms will not risk arrest by doing so. Police seized a cache of unregistered firearms from a West Brighton home in January, leading to the conviction and Aug. 25 sentencing of 43-year-old Adam Simmons. (NYPD via X) There are anonymous gun buyback events held on Staten Island and citywide, but some say its not enough. In January, two City Council members introduced a bill that would require the NYPD to implement monthly buyback programs. A Cash for Guns Buyback program orchestrated by the district attorneys office and NYPD had rounded up about 600 guns since 2016, according to a statement issued in March by District Attorney Michael E. McMahon. That month, 70 guns were turned over at a buyback event at the Central Family Life Center in Stapleton. Citywide, the NYPD offers the Cash for Guns program, which is advertised on NYC 311 as a $200 buyback to anyone who anonymously surrenders a gun. You must first call your local police precinct for instructions on how to participate in the Cash for Guns program, the site reads. FAMILY TRAGEDY ENDS IN ARREST Sources familiar with the Simmons case describe a tragic fallout of the arrest, while law enforcement officials alleged the police investigation prevented bloodshed in the community. The firearms were first discovered by police moments after his wife, sources said, had died by suicide. A 911 call prompted an emergency response to the home which ultimately resulted in the gun charges. Records show Simmons, who had a prior run-in with the law in New Jersey, had filed for bankruptcy in 2019. Removed from Simmons property were six assault rifles, three handguns, six receivers, a 60-round drum magnifier, magazines, a handgun kit, assorted ammo, a polymer kit, four silencers and two 3D printers, court documents alleged. Campbell took exception to the bail amount requested by the district attorneys office at the time, arguing it prevented her client from being with his two children who were mourning and inevitably face a tough road ahead. District Attorney Michael E. McMahon commended the work of law enforcement investigators to ensure this defendant will not be able to hurt another Staten Islander. Campbell said the insinuations of violence were not backed by any charges. Despite the district attorneys hyperbolic statement, said Campbell, there was no evidence that Mr. Simmons hurt or planned to hurt anyone. RELATED CONTENT: Staten Island courts >>Gun makers or avid collectors? Dad, son fight charges after Staten Island raid uncovers 3D printer. >>Man arraigned in Staten Island neighbor stabbing previously accused of school bus driver scuffle >>Nearing completion of court-ordered program, Staten Island man now accused of car theft >>Cache of firearms removed in raid lands Staten Island man behind bars >>Staten Island man, 20, accused of attack that left woman with punctured lung >>Guilty plea taken in burglary fracas after Staten Island woman missed court, struck door after appearance STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. A Brooklyn pimp known as Sugar Bear, Daddy or Bear pleaded guilty last week to sex trafficking eight women and to the 2017 murder of one of them, according to court documents. Somorie Moses appeared Friday in front of United States District Judge Carol Bagley Amon where he admitted to his actions, which authorities say spanned at least two decades. In exchange, hes scheduled to be sentenced to a mandatory 15 years of incarceration, with a maximum sentence of life in prison, according to an announcement Friday by the office of Breon Peace, U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of New York; James Smith, assistant director-in-charge for the FBI New York Field Office, and NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban. The prosecution is the first use of the federal statute criminalizing murder in the course of sex trafficking, officials noted. Since at least 2003, Moses forced women and girls, including minors, into prostitution in Brooklyn and Queens using violence, threats of violence, and psychological manipulation, according to court filings and admissions in court. He used false promises of love and marriage to initiate sexual relationships before demanding his victims work as prostitutes and turn over the money they earned to him. Moses, who also went by the alias Somar Barfield, pressured some of them into tattooing his first name, Somorie, on their bodies. He used a taser on one woman, beat another with a belt and poured lemon juice in the wounds, and at one point put a shotgun in the mouth of a woman who at one point refused to comply with his demands, threatening to kill her and her child, authorities allege. In 2017, the defendant murdered and dismembered one of his sex trafficking victims Leondra Foster. Days later, officials say he transported the womans torso and limbs to the Bronx for disposal at a sanitation site. STATEN ISLAND PIMP CASE ONGOING In an unrelated case, police earlier this year raided a home in New Springville where a 911 call from a teenage girl inside led police to suspect a sex trafficking operation. Justin Dixon, 32, of Brooklyn, was charged in federal court with sex trafficking a minor. The defendant, a reputed gang member, was accused of recruiting and then enslaving his female victims, according to FBI investigators. The defendant was affiliated with the Crips street gang at the time, authorities said. Following his initial arrest, an attorney for Dixon said his client vehemently denies all of the allegations. In this Jan. 26, 2023, photo, Justin Dixon of Brooklyn is taken into custody during an emergency response on Richmond Hill Road in New Springville. (Staten Island Advance) My office has already begun investigating all the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident and Mr. Dixon looks forward to having his day in court, stated Staten Island-based defense attorney Michael Vitaliano. Two of the women living in the house spoke with the Advance/SILive.com following a scheduled court appearance for the defendant. They claimed Dixon only wanted to provide a safe environment for the women he invited to stay there. One of them referred to herself as the matriarch of the house. She said she had been a steady girlfriend of Dixon for a year and that she and the defendant both felt sympathy for some of the other girls. After connecting later with a 14-year-old staying at a community residence on social media, Dixon picked her up in his car at which point he allegedly took her cell phone and said, You will need to earn this back. I am a pimp and you are going to work for me as a prostitute. If she disobeyed his orders, according to officials, hed threaten her with a gun, slap her in the face or threaten to put her to sleep with what he claimed to be Seroquel (psychiatric medication). STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. They are created in basements. Receivers, extended magazines, full firearms and auto sears dangerous modifiers that can make a semi-automatic pistol a deadly automatic weapon. Without serial numbers or background checks, they are nearly impossible to trace and are the preferred tools of illicit behaviors, authorities said. Known as ghost guns, these invisible weapons are growing in presence in New York City and on Staten Island, drawing the attention and efforts of law enforcement centered on confiscating the illegal guns before they are used in crimes. While just eight ghost guns were found on Staten Island two years ago, that number jumped to 18 in 2022 and has already reached 25 this year, bolstered by a pair of raids earlier this month that netted a trove of unregistered and 3D-printed weapons, said NYPD Inspector Courtney Nilan, who leads the departments Field Intelligence Program, a group of about 400 officers tasked with being on the cutting edge of criminal intelligence in the underground trade. Its still not the explosion of ghost guns we have seen in other boroughs, but it is growing, Nilan said of the number of weapons found on Staten Island. Fueling the expanding presence of ghost guns is the overwhelming availability of the blueprints used to create them and the components that make up the illegal firearms, NYPD officials told the Advance/SILive.com. One of the latest NYPD raids uncovered 3D-printed firearms assembled from online parts shipped to a Staten Island address, alongside parts of weapons printed in the home, indicative of a trend that allows individuals to create functioning weapons cheaply and efficiently. NYPD Inspector Courtney Nilan, commanding officer of the departments Field Intelligence Program. (Staten Island Advance/Joseph Ostapiuk) This is what were seeing now, this hybrid people who are ordering online are also now 3D printing as well, Nilan said. You could basically 3D print major components, order a few additional parts and you could have a fully functional Glock-style firearm for about $150. That price tag runs less than half of what it would cost to purchase parts for the same weapon online and is significantly cheaper than a commercially-made firearm, which would require a background check and other measures to attain, Nilan said. And 3D printing is far from a technological feat. In the beginning, I thought it was very complicated, I thought it was over my head, Nilan said. Instead, creating weapons capable of unleashing mayhem takes some basic research, limited funding and patience. The printers can be purchased for under $200, though more advanced technology can run closer to $1,000. It is not illegal to own a 3D printer, which can be utilized for a range of uses, complicating the efforts of law enforcement to stymie illegal gunmakers. Blueprints plugged into those printers can be found online for free, though some sites offer more advanced blueprints for a small subscription fee, according to Nilan. Those prints are also not currently illegal to obtain, she said. After those blueprints are gathered, parts of ghost guns can be created in hours. I equate it to like a slow cooker. You set it and you forget it, said Nilan. Once that blueprint is sent to that printer, you turn it on, and between an hour or 10 hours later, depending on what youre printing, youre going to have a major component to a firearm. One of the most concerning devices auto sears were discovered in the latest Staten Island crackdown, authorities said. Able to be created for $2.50, less than the cost of an MTA bus trip, Nilan said they can be used in combination with extended magazines to unload over a dozen rounds in a second. These imperceptible parts and phantom guns are becoming very appealing to the criminal element, Nilan said, and generating interest among younger individuals, including in music videos posted online. I have myself seen over the past year, there are YouTube videos where different musical artists or drill rappers are rapping about, gotta get a ghostie, said Nilan. Earlier this year, a 13-year-old boy was shot and killed in Stapleton in a chilling example of youth violence that is triggering concern for authorities, NYPD officials said. Ghost guns, said NYPD officials, open up the possibility that violence could be exacerbated. Those weapons are easily purchased and assembled, really with no background check, said Assistant Chief Joseph Gulotta, the NYPD borough commander. Those guns end up in the hands of children out here on Staten Island, and thats one of my big concerns we have a youth-on-youth violence problem. Gulotta urged parents to be aware of their childrens activities and friends. A lot of times these guns are being passed around from person to person, said Gulotta. Keep an eye on your child, who theyre hanging out with and then, more importantly take a look, check under the bed, check their bag, see what theyre doing. If a weapon is found, NYPD officials urged parents to notify authorities. Nilan said her unit has opened and closed more cases this year involving youth offenders both buying gun parts and 3D printing firearm components than ever before. Some of the activity is being spurred on websites relating to gaming, making it difficult for authorities to track how children are being exposed to the illicit exchanges. Its alarming and its scary, said Nilan. Even as authorities celebrate major takedowns like the ones on Staten Island, Nilan equated their efforts to a game of whack-a-mole. When one is snuffed out, others pop up. I feel like well take down cases, well arrest subjects, theyll be sentenced to a significant time in jail, but the amount of people we see still continuing to do this some days it feels daunting, Nilan said. But after something like last Thursday, we really feel that it is making a difference. RELATED COVERAGE: Ghost guns on Staten Island >> How NYPD ghost-gun investigations culminated with 2 Staten Island raids >> Feds say ex-con tied to Staten Island ghost gun stash threatened to take out floor at SIUH >> Gun makers or avid collectors? Dad, son fight charges after Staten Island raid uncovers 3D printer. Emmy-winning actor Billy Miller, best known for portraying Billy Abbott in the soap opera The Young and the Restless, died Sept. 15, at the age of 43 two days shy of his 44th birthday per Variety. The news of Millers passing was confirmed by his manager in a statement, which stated the actor was battling manic depression at the time of his passing. Millers career included three Daytime Emmy awards: two for Outstanding Supporting Actor and one for Outstanding Lead Actor. All three were for his role in The Young and the Restless, in which he starred from 2008-2014. From 2014-2019, he appeared in the enduring soap opera General Hospital. Miller was born William John Miller on Sept. 17, 1979, and grew up in Grand Prairie, Texas. Throughout his childhood, he battled with Tarsal coalition, a rare condition that affected the cartilage in his ankles. He passed away in Austin, Texas. Billy Miller accepts the award for outstanding lead actor in a drama series for The Young and the Restless at the 41st annual Daytime Emmy Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Sunday, June 22, 2014, in Beverly Hills, Calif. (Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP)Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP Formerly a model for the Wilhelmina agency, Miller broke into the television industry portraying Richie Novak from 2007 to 2008 in the soap opera All My Children. From there, he moved over to The Young and the Restless to take over the role of Billy Abbott. Beyond soap operas, Miller also appeared in the 2014 film American Sniper and in the television series, Ray Donovan and Suits. Most recently, he acted in the TV series like NCIS and The Rookie. He was also featured in Clint Eastwoods 2014 war drama American Sniper and Craig Brewers 2016 television movie, Urban Cowboy. Miller is survived by his mother Patricia, sister Megan, brother-in-law Ronnie, nephew Grayson and niece Charley. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- New Yorks fledgling adult-use cannabis industry has not only brought legal marijuana to the state, but also thousands of new employment opportunities. Whether its growing the plant, processing products, selling them at a dispensary, or delivering them directly to residents front doors, theres no shortage of ways to get involved in New Yorks cannabis industry. Last week, the five-borough Lift Off! Cannabis NYC Listening and Learning Tour, designed to educate New York City residents about the states legal cannabis industry, held an event at Staten Island University Hospital Community Park in St. George. Among those tabling at the event was the New York State Cannabis Workforce Initiative (CWI), an organization dedicated to providing workforce development and legal education to residents looking to take their first steps in joining the states adult-use cannabis industry. We got started with state-allocated funds in collaboration with the Cornell University School of Industrial and Labor Relations and the Workforce Development Institute, which allows us to provide free educational and training services, said Kayvon Reid, CWI community engagement coordinator. The organization offers a wide range of free in-person and online workforce development training opportunities, including the 10-week Cannabis Career Exploration and Worker Rights Certificate Program, which covers everything New Yorkers need to know about working in the industry. We have the 10-week online certification course where we talk about plant science, manufacturing and processing, health and safety, compliance, and workers rights within the cannabis industry, Reid said. The online program covers the following topics. History of Cannabis Laws and Industry Overview The Cannabis Plant and Cultivation Jobs Cannabis Legalization and What it Means for You Working in a Dispensary Jobs in Extraction and Manufacturing Health and Safety in the Cannabis Industry Your Rights at Work Seed-to-Sale Compliance How are You Protected from Discrimination and Harassment? Other Opportunities in the Cannabis Industry Those who arent ready to commit to the full, 10-week program still have a variety of resources at their disposal to learn about the industry, with the CWI offering on-demand training videos that residents can view at their own pace. One of the most sought-after positions among prospective cannabis workers are budtenders, the front-facing dispensary workers who help customers select the right products for them, whether thats flower, oil, edibles or anything else. Right now, budtending has been the trendy position. Thats been one of the biggest and highest in demand, Reid said. A budtender is the person who identifies exactly what the customers are looking for in their products. While New York City residents may believe that the only opportunities in the Big Apple will be through retail stores and delivery services, the mayoral administration is making a concerted push to develop a comprehensive, self-sustaining industry within New York City, including cultivation sites and processing facilities. These jobs would include the actual growing of the marijuana plant, as well as the harvesting of the flower and processing of THC-infused products, like edible gummies and vape pens. We want the entire supply chain in all five boroughs. Some people only see New York City as the retail outlet and where consumers will be, but we have cultivators here and we have an administration focused on urban agriculture, said Dasheeda Dawson, founding director of Cannabis NYC, an NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS) initiative to support the development of the growing industry. Reid said the new employment opportunities expand far beyond cannabis companies themselves, including the various ancillary businesses that support the cultivation, production, distribution and sale of the now-legal drug. A lot of the big opportunities come from the ancillary jobs, when you talk about the businesses that support the entire industry, but dont necessarily require a [cannabis] license, he explained. Common ancillary job opportunities include retail store security officers, marketing and branding specialists, research and development scientists, financial accountants, legal consultants and more. More jobs in New Yorks adult-use cannabis industry are expected to open up in the coming months, with the state establishing new regulations that will allow all residents to apply for cultivator, processor, distributor, microbusiness and retail dispensary licenses beginning on Oct. 4. Those looking to learn more about the various careers in cannabis can check out the CWIs 17-page Career Guide, which provides information on dozens of potential jobs in the industry. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. The national blood supply has fallen to critically low levels potentially threatening the medical care of patients with an emergency need for blood or those with critical conditions who depend on lifesaving blood transfusions, the American Red Cross recently announced. The blood supply nationwide has dropped nearly 25% since early August, caused by back-to-back months of climate-driven disasters and the summer travel season. Hurricane Idalias impact in the southeastern U.S. caused more than 700 units of blood and platelets to go uncollected. Donor turnout in August dropped due to a busy travel season and back-to-school activities contributing to a 30,000-donation shortfall in August alone, according to the Red Cross. For so many patients living with urgent medical care needs, crises dont stop with natural disasters, said Dr. Pampee Young, chief medical officer for the American Red Cross. In fact, in some instances the stress of a disaster can lead to a medical crisis for some individuals battling sickle cell disease. The need for blood is constant. Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood, an often-invisible emergency that the rest of the world doesnt see behind closed hospital doors. Now, that urgency has only heightened. Blood product distributions to hospitals are outpacing the number of blood donations. Approximately 2,500 hospitals and transfusion centers across the country rely on the Red Cross to collect 12,5000 blood donations each day to meet the needs of their patients. So who should donate? Donors of all blood types are urgently needed though there is an emergency need for platelet donors and type O blood donors. To make an appointment to give blood or platelets, donors can use the Red Cross Blood App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). You can donate blood every 56 days, or up to six times a year. You must be in good health and feeling well, be 16 years old or older in most states, and weigh at least 110 pounds. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted eligibility restrictions for individuals who lived in Europe during certain periods of time, as well as LGBTQIA+ individuals. To view current eligibility guidelines to donate blood in New York, visit New York Blood Centers website at nybc.org or call 800-688-0900. To make an appointment at a blood drive near you, donors can call 1-800-933-2566 or visit nybc.org. Cant donate blood? You can still support NYBCs mission by texting NYBC to 20222 to give $25. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Moments of silence and somber speeches marked the annual POW/MIA Recognition ceremony at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Park on Sunday. The ceremony, which honored all the prisoners of war and those missing in action, was held by the Vietnam Veterans of America Thomas J. Tori Chapter 421, at the Castleton Corners park on Manor Road and Martling Avenue. It began with a solemn march led by the Honor Guard. We are here tonight to recommit to the families about POW/MIAs, that they are not forgotten, said Sal Cassano, former FDNY commissioner and the master of ceremonies during the service. And we will not rest until everyone is accounted for and brought home. Tonight reminds us of the dear price some pay for our freedoms and their families continue to pay many years later. Please pass on the message you hear tonight to the family and friends that may not know about this solemn day. 23 1 / 23 Staten Island memorial service honors POW/MIAs during Vietnam War Two Staten Islanders who are listed as missing in action during the Vietnam War were honored: Lt. Gerald Crosson and Lt. Kevin OBrien. Gene DiGiacomo, president of the chapter, explained that POW/MIAs in the Vietnam War were first recognized as an issue to bear thanks to families of service members and Vietnam veterans from the groups League of Families and We come here to remember and honor our POWs and MIAs, said DiGiacomo. We have placed a POW monument, it will lay here for generations to remind people what was sacrificed. What freedom costs. I applaud you all coming tonight. You are the few that have come here to reaffirm this legacy. You are showing to all our commitment to make sure their service to this country will not be forgotten. You are on the frontlines, securing their memory. Be proud of that and never falter. We owe that to them and especially their loved ones. We are brothers forever. Several members of Rolling Thunder attended the ceremony. The non-profit organization helps publicize POW/MIA issues and are committed to helping American veterans from all wars. Veteran and vice president of Rolling Thunder Chapter 2 Carolos Cardenas placed the chair back on the Table for One setting in memory of those who served who did not return and a moment of silence and reflection. The ceremony included the singing of the national anthem, as well as a moment of silence and reflection. Several organizations were in attendance, as well as local elected officials including Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, Assemblyman Sam Pirozzolo, and Richmond County Public Administrator Edwina Frances Martin, as well as a representative from District Attorney Michael E. McMahons office. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Military bases like Brooklyns Fort Hamilton would be denied funding for migrant shelters if legislation, introduced by Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-Staten Island/South Brooklyn), becomes law. The bill, which Malliotakis introduced with Rep. John Carter (R-Tx.) on Thursday, would block federal money from being used to house immigrants not lawfully admitted to the U.S. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Staten Island University Hospital in Ocean Breeze Monday evening, escorted by a large motorcade of law enforcement vehicles that closed streets in the neighborhood around the medical facility. Zelenskyy visited Ukrainian soldiers injured in the war against Russia who were being treated at the hospital, according to footage posted online by Reuters. The hospital has treated 18 soldiers since March 15, Northwell Health CEO Michael J. Dowling said during a press conference. In addition to engaging with his troops, the Ukrainian leader could be seen speaking with hospital officials, who showed him the facility and explained the prosthetics program. He bestowed awards to the soldiers as well as hospital staff. Thank you so much to everybody, of course to our soldiers, to their relatives, and I see here their wives, sisters, brothers, he said. He thanked the doctors whose treatment gave the soldiers such possibility. Dowling acknowledged Zelenskyys efforts protecting democracy and protecting the way of life for the rest of us. He vowed Northwell would continue to support Ukraine with supplies, ambulances, a telemedicine program and mental-health treatment for those afflicted by the war. The Advance/SILive.com reported back in March that wounded Ukrainian soldiers were being brought here by the non-profit Kind Deeds. MOTORCADE ARRIVAL Around 5 p.m., the motorcade traveled along Capodanno Boulevard and down Seaview Avenue. NYPD vehicles blocked streets in the area. A handful of supporters lined Seaview Avenue waving Ukrainian flags. Zelenskyy is in New York City this week, where he will address the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday. OTHER STATEN ISLAND NEWS: >> Slow cooker of death in Staten Island basements: Inside look at ghost gun industry >> Some have called for more NYC gun buybacks. Would that have helped Staten Island arsenal defendant? >> Plumbing and electrical system improvements are coming to this Staten Island apartment complex Egypt called on Israeli authorities to immediately halt the stormings of the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem by Israeli extremists under police protection, according a statement by the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday. The statement also condemned the most recent storming of the mosque on Sunday, describing it as a provocation towards millions of Muslims worldwide that exacerbates violence in the occupied Palestinian territories. Cairo also emphasized that "the repeated storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and attempts to divide it temporally and spatially, in violation of international law and international legitimacy, will not affect its historical and legal status as an Islamic endowment," read the statement. On Sunday, hundreds of Israeli extremists stormed Al-Aqsa Mosque, the third holiest site in Islam located in the Old City of occupied Jerusalem, to mark the Jewish New Year and perform religious rituals. Such actions violate the decades-long status quo that says that only Muslims can pray and perform religious rituals in the entire Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, also known as Al Haram Al Sharif (noble sanctuary). This status quo, reached with Jordan, the custodian of Muslim holy sites in Jerusalem since the city's occupation in 1967, allows non-Muslims to visit the mosque compound at specific times but prohibits any form of worship. Egypt pointed out that such provocative actions undermine the foundation of regional and international efforts seeking to revive the peace process based on the two-state solution. Egypt reiterated its call to international parties, mainly the United Nations and its relevant bodies, to assume their responsibilities in protecting the rights of the Palestinian people, added the text. The statement stressed Egypt's unwavering commitment to supporting the Palestinians rights and all efforts to achieve a just and comprehensive solution leading to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with its capital in East Jerusalem, on the 1967 borders. Sunday's storming comes two months after Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir stormed the compound, along others settlers, for the for the third time since becoming a member of Israels government. generating global condemnation and concern. Search Keywords: Short link: A Broome County, New York, man riding a lawnmower died this weekend when the lawnmower and a motorcycle collided in front of his house, troopers said. Officers responded to the crash near 1415 Hawleyton Road in the town of Binghamton just after 2:30 p.m., according to a news release Sunday from the State Police. The man killed was Danny M. Shepard, 74. He was riding a lawnmower near the road when it collided with a Harley Davidson motorcycle traveling south on Hawleyton Road, troopers said. Shepard was pronounced dead at the scene. The man operating the motorcycle, Justin T. Tarbox, 28, of Binghamton, was taken to Wilson Medical Center in Johnson City for his injuries, troopers said. The cause of the crash is under investigation. Editors note: A different version of this story originally ran in India Currents. This report was made possible in collaboration with palabra and Altavoz Lab, a project created to support community journalists investigating public accountability on behalf of immigrant communities, Latinos and other populations not sufficiently covered by major media. By Meera Kymal and Anjana Nagarajan-Butaney In 2005, Tahera Khalil suffered a heart attack while she and her husband Sabbar were visiting their daughter, Nishrin, in California. Worried that she could not care for her aging parents if they returned to India, Nishrin urged them to remain in San Jose, where she lives. Tahera and Sabbar stayed, but they did not anticipate the consequences of growing old in a country without universal healthcare. Today, 18 years later, the Kahlils live in a senior community less than three miles from Nishrins home. Sabbar, now 95, suffers from macular degeneration (an eye disease that causes blurred vision) and the side effects of radiation after a bout with cancer. As his eyesight fades, hes increasingly dependent on Tahera. Sabbar doesnt yet meet the criteria to receive skilled nursing care, but as his health issues become more complex, the burden on Tahera grows. At 88, Tahera recently had a pacemaker fitted but continues to manage the cooking and housework with Nishrins help. The Khalils cannot afford private caregivers. Nor would they move Sabbar to a nursing home even if he qualifies for it, especially not to one that lacks culturally congruent care. I can take care of myself and my husband, says Tahera steadfastly. In many immigrant families, aging in place in a multigenerational setting is the cultural norm. Nishrins abiding commitment to helping her parents is typical of her South Asian roots. But as aging takes its toll on the elderly, family members are left to perform complicated caregiving tasks without support or training, thus placing their own health, finances and well-being at risk. This trend reflects a nationwide exigency. As more people in the U.S. live longer, a higher prevalence of chronic diseases ranging from arthritis and chronic pain to hypertension, diabetes and dementia will fuel the demand for support services. America is graying Approximately 56 million adults age 65 and older live in the U.S., according to 2021 data from Americas Health Rankings, representing just under 17% of the nations population. The year 2030 marks a demographic turning point for the country; thats when all baby boomers will be older than 65. Put another way, one in five Americans will be at retirement age. The U.S. Census predicts this demographic will reach 77 million by 2034, with older adults outnumbering children for the first time in U.S. history. Seniors 85 and older the group most often needing help with basic personal care will more than double between 2020 and 2040, says an Urban Institute study. Projections show that Latinos age 65 and older (about 4.6 million in 2019) will grow to just under 20 million by 2060, an increase from 9% to 21% of the older U.S. population. As the ethnically diverse, aging population grows, so will the demand for culturally competent services to address their growing healthcare needs. Nishrin Khalil, daughter of Tahera and Sabbar Khalil, greets a family friend on a video call. Nishrin visits her parents everyday. Photo by Sree Sripathy for India Currents/CatchLight Local More long-term care needed The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHSS) estimates that at least 70% of people over 65 will need some type of long-term care as declining cognitive and physical health impairs their ability to function independently. In Santa Clara County, California, 18% or 342,000 of the states 1.9 million residents are older than 60, an age group predicted to triple to just over one million by 2030. A study by the Public Policy Institute of California projects that this growing population will face significant difficulties with self-care. Santa Clara County which includes San Jose, where the Khalils live is already estimated to have as many as 52,000 senior residents who will require long-term care. The county delivers home-based services to older, low-income residents through Medi-Cal (Californias Medicaid program), but it lacks the infrastructure, manpower and funding necessary to fully support a rapidly growing elder population who will live longer with chronic conditions, fewer family caregivers and shrinking savings. Santa Clara Countys quandary is a microcosm of whats happening across the nation. Intergenerational care, duty and honor The National Institutes of Health (NIH) defines intergenerational caregiving as the hands-on care undertaken by adult family members for their aging parents. In the U.S., that support pool now stands at 41.8 million. According to Vivian Nava-Schellinger of the National Hispanic Council on Aging (NHCOA), in Hispanic cultures, caring for aging parents is simply an ingrained cultural value of duty and honor. Family members in multi-generational households offer intergenerational care for aging parents, relatives or family members without ever identifying as a caregiver. This family dynamic is the norm in many U.S. immigrant households. Nearly 60 million residents live with multiple generations under the same roof. A 2021 Pew Research Center study reported a growing trend in which a higher share of foreign-born Americans (24% of Asians and 26% of Hispanic immigrants) were more likely than white Americans to live in a home that includes grandparents. Family circles of care In Mamaroneck, NY, Lilian Perezs 93-year-old father-in-law, Doroteo Lopez, suffers from early-onset dementia. Over Christmas last year, Doroteo fell and was hospitalized. His physician suggested a nursing home for his post-admission care. But the family wouldnt consider it. They were alarmed by the negative experience of an elderly family friend at a nursing facility earlier that year. Doroteo Lopez with his daughter, Onilia, on his 90th birthday. Photo courtesy of Lilian Perez Doroteos adult children now follow a rotation where each takes a turn caring for their father overnight. In the daytime, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., a licensed, Spanish-speaking home care aide looks after Doroteos needs. Hes never alone, says Lilian. The family found a culturally competent, Spanish-speaking aide through their large Guatemalan community. New York State Medicaid covers the aides costs because Doroteo qualifies for in-home care.We prefer to have him home, says Lilian firmly. You know, we are so attached to our people. The Khalils share similar strong familial bonds. Cultural ties to India shape their religion, food and family relationships. Nishrin calls her mother her rock and best friend! Nishrin, her husband, Khaled Hasnat, and her brother Nazir, form a circle of support to enable Tahera and Sabbar to remain in their home. Both families mirror a trend across the nation reported by AARP (formerly the American Association of Retired Persons), where 1 in 5 Americans provide intergenerational caregiving for aging parents. The Perez-Lopez family fits the profile of the Typical Hispanic Caregiver whom AARP describes as caring for a parent or in-law over 65 in high-intensity care situations and who feels their role gives them meaning and purpose in life. Caring for a parent is part of our lives, says Lilian Perez. We grow up that way, generation to generation. This intergenerational setting works as long as seniors in the household are fit and able. But as they grow frail and develop health issues, undue burdens strain the most dedicated of families. Looming gaps in care To age in place in San Jose, the Khalils need assistance with the business of daily living. AARP defines this as routine tasks like bathing and dressing, preparing meals, maintaining finances, keeping medical appointments and managing medications. Like many regions across the country, Santa Clara County faces widening gaps in home-based services for its increasingly diverse and rapidly aging population. Almost 40% of its residents are foreign-born. Two of its largest ethnic groups are Asians at 37.4% and Hispanics at 25.1%. Eligibility limits, high costs and a shortage of trained caregivers woefully undermine the effectiveness of services the county delivers to seniors, causing a caregiver crunch that curbs independent living. In Santa Clara County, theres going to be very few people who are going to be receiving long-term care through Medicare, says aging expert Bob Brownstein of Working Partnerships, which assesses the countys health services. Some very affluent people are able to pay for it, he adds, but really what happens for people who are middle income is they spend [down] their assets to become eligible for Medi-Cal. This population can live comfortable lives if they get decent, long-term care. But the political system hasnt gotten there to be able to treat that with the urgency that it needs. Sabbar Khalils medications stay on the family room table for easy access. Photo by Sree Sripathy for India Currents/CatchLight Local High costs of care According to AARP, Latino families spend less per year ($7,167) than whites ($7,300) on caring for aging loved ones. But the financial strain is greater because it represents almost half the income of Latino caregivers, states AARPs report. Before her in-laws qualified for NY state Medicaid, Lilian Perezs extended family her husband Abraham Lopezs seven brothers and sisters pooled their resources for a private, in-home caregiver, paying $40 per hour for seven to eight hours daily for eight years to care for her ill mother-in-law.It costs over $20 an hour to hire a home health aide in the San Jose metropolitan area, reports Working Partnerships. San Jose resident Jaya Padmanabhan paid a private agency $2,500 to $3,000 a month for a qualified aide to provide three to four hours of care a day for her 88-year-old mother, who was diagnosed with early-onset dementia. Hired help doesnt come cheap. Each time you press a button to ask for additional help, it comes with a price tag, says Padmanabhan. When she couldnt manage anymore, Padmanabhan made a heartbreaking decision to place her mother 3,000 miles away in a nursing home in Chennai, India, where she would get more affordable, culturally congruent care. Doroteo Lopez is carried to the bathroom by his grandsons, Joshua and Jesse. Photo courtesy of Lilian Perez Systems of care failing More seniors will rely on paid caregivers provided by home care agencies, reports Working Partnerships. As a microcosm of what the rest of the nation will face, California will need as many as 3.2 million additional care workers by 2030 to fully meet demand. But it faces a trained caregiver shortage. Santa Clara County provides in-home care services (IHSS) only to people who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or who meet all Medi-Cal income requirements. Qualifying for care can be daunting. The Khalils had to pass a stringent two-step evaluation of their income and service needs before qualifying for a cleaning aide. Any additional care requires another re-evaluation, adds Tahera. I have not been able to connect with my social worker for quite some time. The social worker used to come every year, she says. We spoke to the person in charge, and she said that they have too big a load. The countys social workers are overstretched, admits IHSS manager Terri Possley, with each social worker handling 350 cases. Theyre overburdened with cases. We dont have enough social workers. Home care aides dont stick around either because they are poorly paid, says Bob Brownstein. Home health and personal care aides earn between $28,000 to $36,670 per year. Without a safety net, the majority of older adults in Santa Clara County and elsewhere lack home-based coverage. The problem will only get worse as the aging population grows. Medicare and commercial insurance plans do not cover long-term care. The exorbitant costs of long-term care insurance mean that almost 90% of Americans dont have any, reports Stateline (previously with the Pew Trust), because people worry that fluctuating premiums could wipe out their savings. From my personal point of view, says Working Partnerships Bob Brownstein, its crazy to tell people they have to impoverish themselves before society will help them deal with long-term care, which is increasingly a problem that impacts very, very large numbers of people. Tahera and Sabbar Khalil on their wedding day. Photo by Sree Sripathy for India Currents/CatchLight Local Culturally competent care Despite the demanding schedule, the Perez-Lopez family prefers having their father at home where they can give Doroteo the culturally congruent care that a nursing home cannot. Doroteo wont find the caldo de gallina (chicken soup), platano frito (fried plantain), mojarra (fried tilapia), carne guisada (stewed beef) and pepian de pollo (spicy chicken stew) that he loves on any nursing home menu. We dont want him in a nursing home, says Lilian Perez. He likes our traditional food desayuno (breakfast), lots of vegetables and specialties from Guatemala.The NCOA recommends home care because it is safer, less expensive and provides a better quality of life. However, where Latino families are concerned, the pool of culturally competent, Spanish-speaking caregivers has been dwindling steadily due to poor wages. That the Perez-Lopez family was able to find one so easily was more the exception than the rule. According to NCOA director Vivian Nava-Schellinger, Latino home care workers have been underpaid and undervalued for far too long, creating serious turnover and access problems. Almost half of these workers have incomes below 200% of poverty, nearly 88% are women, 62% are people of color, and a third are over age 55. Who pays for care and who delivers it? The Perez-Lopez and Khalil families represent the 41 million family caregivers nationwide who provide an estimated 34 billion hours of care to an adult with limitations in daily activities, reports a 2017 AARP study. This unpaid economic contribution was valued at approximately $470 billion. Another worrying trend reported by AARP is that 63% (2 in 3) of family caregivers aged 50+ care for an adult 65 or older. Tahera Khalil helps her husband, Sabbar Khalil, at dinnertime. Photo by Sree Sripathy for India Currents/CatchLight Local An NIH study of 300 family caregivers of Mexican origin and care recipients by researchers Jacqueline Angel (University of Texas at Austin) and Sunshine Rote (University of Louisville) forecasts profound gaps in senior care. They estimated that Latinos will triple by 2050 nationwide and make up one in every four Americans (28.6% by 2060). They found that as functional limitations forced Latino seniors with diabetes and dementia two of the most common conditions among elderly Latinos to rely increasingly on family for support, caring for them took a toll on family caregivers. Changing the caregiver dynamic The Angel & Rote study found that culturally tailored home- and community-based care was critical to supplement gaps in caregiver support. They also reported poor health outcomes if care was not culturally or linguistically appropriate. What could change, says Congresswoman Anna Eshoo (CA District 16), is how we rethink the system. Eshoo moved her own parents from Fresno into her home in Menlo Park. She recommends creating a cadre of public health care counselors who are trained to answer the most common questions for family caregivers. Sabbar hugs his son, Nazir Khalil, who is returning home to New Mexico. Nazir visits his parents frequently. Photo by Sree Sripathy for India Currents/CatchLight Local You dont need 500 social workers to be answering some of the most basic questions, she says. Santa Clara Assemblyman Ash Kalra (CA District 27) reiterated that public health resources should enable seniors to stay at home with the support they need. I think that we have a long way to go in order to ensure that everyone has access to care that allows him to stay at home, rather than go into a facility, says Kalra. California just launched a $3.5 billion master plan that includes senior care services and an initiative that will train people to deliver home support services with cultural competency. Brownstein has doubts about its execution. Whos gonna do the training, even for things that are broadly needed, like dealing with people with dementia, much less the culturally competent needs of people from South Asia? The question is, who are the trainers? Innovative senior care model One possible solution is a senior care model being piloted at Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley. Director Susan Frazer says the eldercare project is community-funded and volunteer-driven, offering services that range from care management to scheduling medical appointments, food prep and transportation. Seniors pay for services on a sliding scale, depending on their financial means, which is determined after a thorough evaluation of their wealth. This social enterprise model, adds Frazer, gives the community an opportunity to play a role in giving indigent seniors the services they need but cannot afford. The only way we can do this, says Frazer, is because the Jewish community gives to the Jewish community. Sabbar and Tahera Khalil lounge in their living room just before dinner time. Photo by Sree Sripathy for India Currents/CatchLight Local Band-Aid solutions As complex, long-term care needs for seniors grow in scope and intensify demands on family caregivers, the expectation that families alone will provide care for older relatives with chronic, disabling or serious health conditions is unsustainable. Health agencies across the country have to build capacity, improve access and reduce the burden on family caregivers. Advocates need to mobilize and lobby lawmakers to make caregiving more affordable and culturally competent for older adults. The Band-Aid solutions currently in place will not help the Perez-Lopez and Khalil families age in place with dignity and independence. To take our grandmas and grandpas and put them in those places to think about it is stressful so we prefer not to do it, says Lilian Perez. Tahera Khalil says she often cannot find a reliable provider. They usually give us a list of people who can help out, she says. They dont last for too long. People they just dont stick around. Then I just manage on my own. Its tough. Without more support, the Perez-Lopez and Khalil families, like similarly burdened families across the country, are in danger of slipping off the caregiver cliff. Meera Kymal is the managing editor at India Currents magazine and a founder/producer at DesiCollective Media. She writes about issues that impact minority communities in the South Asian diaspora through the lens of social justice, politics, and the arts. Anjana Nagarajan-Butaney is the donor engagement advisor and a writer for India Currents magazine, showcasing the stories of South Asians in the United States while exploring the social and cultural impact of issues like immigration, health, census, elections, technology and the arts. She is also a founder of and producer at DesiCollective Media. Sree Sripathy is a staff photographer for India Currents magazine and a CatchLight Local Fellow as part of CatchLights California Local Visual Desk. Linda Jue is a contributing editor and writer for palabra. She is also editor-at-large for the investigative site 100Reporters and a reporting and writing coach for the Fund for Investigative Journalism. Among the many hats Linda has worn, she was an associate at the Center for Investigative Reporting, a magazine editor and associate producer at KQED-TV/San Francisco Focus magazine, and Northern California correspondent for C-SPAN. Her work has appeared in San Francisco Focus, KQED-TV, GEO, MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour, PBS Frontline and other outlets. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Showers forecast to roll into New York City late Sunday night are expected to persist into the start of the work week and deliver a gloomy Monday, the National Weather Service said. The agencys New York office said one model suggests rain will begin to move over Staten Island late Sunday night around 9 p.m. before spotty bouts of precipitation continue in the overnight hours. Then, more consistent rainfall will begin prior to the morning rush hour, according to the model. By around 6 a.m., heavier showers could begin to make a presence, the forecast said. A wet start to the week is expected as low pressure passes to our south and east. By Monday night, about 0.5 inches of rain is forecast for western locations and around an inch for far eastern locations. Here is one model's depiction of how the day will play out: pic.twitter.com/NGqOQCtgvW NWS New York NY (@NWSNewYorkNY) September 17, 2023 Showers are slated to linger throughout the morning into the early afternoon Monday, the National Weather Service said. Skies should clear up later in the afternoon, the forecast model suggests. By Monday night, around a half-inch of rainfall is expected to accumulate, the agency said on X (the platform formerly known as Twitter. The prime sponsor of the bill, Senator Dave Argall (R-29), made the announcement. Argall, a vocal advocate for the Ukrainian community within his constituency, stressed the importance of this legislation. "My constituents of Ukrainian descent have been loud and clear they do not want our state government supporting the war crimes committed by the Russian government during their invasion of Ukraine," stated Senator Argall. The legislation, known as Senate Bill 282, seeks to bar companies from obtaining Pennsylvania state contracts, grants, or tax credits if they are identified by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the United States Treasury Department as owned, controlled by, or acting on behalf of the Russian government. The bill's emergence comes in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which has resulted in a devastating loss of life, including the deaths of over 100,000 Ukrainian civilians. According to the 2020 census, Cass Township in Schuylkill County boasts the highest percentage of people with Ukrainian ancestry in the United States. Carbon County is also home to the Ukrainian Homestead of CEC ODWU Inc., an organization dedicated to the celebration of Ukrainian heritage and culture. The bill will now advance to the full Senate for its final consideration. On Monday, the Senate Appropriations Committee of Pennsylvania gave its approval to a bill aimed at preventing the use of Pennsylvania taxpayer dollars to support companies with ties to the governments of Russia and Belarus. Thank you for visiting the Daily Journal. Please purchase an Enhanced Subscription to continue reading. To continue, please log in, or sign up for a new account. We offer one free story view per month. If you register for an account, you will get two additional story views. After those three total views, we ask that you support us with a subscription. A subscription to our digital content is so much more than just access to our valuable content. It means youre helping to support a local community institution that has, from its very start, supported the betterment of our society. Thank you very much! Saudi Arabia will host the 2024 World Environment Day, highlighting the kingdoms pioneering efforts locally, regionally, and internationally, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has announced. With focus on land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience, the event, marked annually on June 5, will reiterate the pressing need for global cooperation and concerted efforts in implementing the right policies and actions to protect and restore nature and ensure a sustainable future. World Environment Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly to emphasise the importance of participatory action to protect the environment. In line with this philosophy, Saudi Arabia has exerted diligent efforts, locally and regionally, by launching the Saudi Green and Middle East Green initiatives and implementing a set of initiatives under its National Environment Strategy. Environmental law The Saudi government adopted the new Environmental law and the National Environmental Awareness programme, to ensure the protection of the environment in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The kingdom also launched the National Environment Week and established five environmental centers to conserve the environment in Saudi Arabia, as well as the Environment Fund. Globally, and under Saudi Arabia's G20 presidency, the Coral Research and Development Accelerator Platform and the Global Initiative on Reducing Land Degradation and Enhancing Conservation of Terrestrial Habitats were launched, to protect and restore both marine and terrestrial habitats. Collective global efforts Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP, welcomed Saudi Arabias participation in the collective global efforts to restore land and achieve drought resilience. She noted that UNEP and KSA will endeavour to intensify efforts to restore nature and preserve the planet for future generations. World Environment Day has become the largest global platform dedicated by the United Nations to encouraging worldwide awareness and action for the environment since 1973. With UNEP at the helm, over 150 countries participate in the global celebrations every year.-- TradeArabia News Service The head office of Zambrero is situated in the buzzy precinct of Circular Quay, overlooking Sydneys Harbour Bridge. But Matthew Kenny, chief executive of Australias largest Mexican food chain, has his sights set further afield: on Ireland, Britain and the United States, as he oversees the franchises international expansion. Truly becoming a global brand is probably the thing that Im excited about most, Kenny said in his first major interview as CEO. Even in uncertain times, what many would describe as difficult economic conditions, we still have an appetite for growth. Zambrero is setting its sights on Ireland and Britain. Credit: Zambrero was founded in 2005 by serial entrepreneur and philanthropist Dr Sam Prince as a medical student with $16,000 in savings. He went on to start other businesses including not-for-profit One Disease (which successfully eliminated crusted scabies in the Northern Territory); Next Practice (to create a new model of GP medical centres); Shine+ (a natural energy drink); and other hospitality ventures Mejico and INDU. Advertisement Eating outGood Food Guide 2024 The insiders guide to 47 great Melbourne food finds you probably didnt know about (but should) The Age Good Food Guides Smeg Young Chef of the Year finalists are some of the finest cooks in the country. So we had to know, where do they really go and what do they really eat after a long night in the kitchen with some refreshingly uncheffy responses. September 19, 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 Cameron Tay-Yap, Cassandre Morris, Stuart Teh, Claire Feji, Lily McGrath, Viveik Vinoharan Justin McManus On behalf of The Age Good Food Guide, may I present this years finalists in the Smeg Young Chef of the Year award. Chosen by a panel of judges as well as food writers, its an award that has been handed out to a rising star on the Victorian restaurant scene every year since the Good Food Guides 2002 edition. A little-known chef named Andrew McConnell was the awards inaugural winner, sharing the title with his brother Matt. Other winners include George Calombaris (2004), then heading up Melbourne restaurant Reserve, an earlier adopter of molecular gastronomy, and Kylie Millar (2018), then at Attica. This years super-talented bunch, all aged under 30, was drawn from our largest-ever field of entrants and boy are they passionate, skilled and dedicated. They also know more about eating out in this city than almost anyone. So, as we congratulated them on the honour of reaching finalist status, we asked them to spill their secrets about the Melbourne scene they know, love and are integrally involved in. Ardyn Bernoth, Good Food Editor Advertisement Smeg Young Chef of the Year finalist Stuart Teh. Justin McManus Stuart Teh, Manze, 27 Where do you go for late-night eats after work? Nothing beats late-night Chinese with a cold beer after a service. My go-to places are Seafood Street or Ling Nan. Of course, everyones favourite dish is XO pipis with Chinese doughnuts. I also like to add fried vermicelli noodles and deep-fried quail. Whats your number-one hidden gem in Melbourne that you dont want anyone to know about? Advertisement Old Street Hunan in Box Hill youve got to try the smoked pork jowl with smoked bamboo shoots and the stir-fried pork intestines. Most dishes there come with a fistful of fresh chilli; they arent that spicy but can seem very intimidating. Whats the best dish youve eaten this year? It was a chicken curry pie. Simple, yes, but hear me out it was a collaboration with Manze and Bread Club. The flakiest dough but still with a chew thanks to Bread Club, and the filing was a very citrusy curry chicken with a strong aroma of spices. A perfect balance that restored my faith in pies. Whats Melbournes most killer sandwich? Nicos Sandwich Deli their Cubano is to die for. Nothing else needs to be said. Advertisement Who makes your favourite bowl of noodles? The chilli pan mee at Jojo Little Kitchen (Fulton Lane, and QV Food Court, CBD) is a perfect bowl of noodles for any chilli fanatic out there. You get chilli mix, lard, poached egg, and some minced meat. Whats the most uncheffy thing that you eat out, regularly? Pork feet from Dosirock, Melbourne CBD. Its a Korean restaurant that serves them deep-fried, braised and stir-fried. My favourite is the stir-fried and can be quite spicy so beware. There is also a special for $10 to add in soba noodles I always get it together, its really good. Who has Melbournes best croissant, and why? Advertisement Drom Bakery its a bit out of the city in Bayswater. They make circular croissants filled with various fillings. They also make a decent croissant, buttery and flakey. Review Plan a visit, its amazing! Why you should join the queue at this bakery in the burbs What forthcoming restaurant are you excited to check out when it opens? Saadi a husband and wife team cooking modern Australian food drawing inspiration from their Indian heritage. Currently, they only do pop-ups, but I cant wait for them to have a permanent spot. Smeg Young Chef of the Year finalist Claire Feij. Justin McManus Advertisement Claire Feij, Vue de Monde, 29 Which bar is your go-to for a martini? I love Di Stasio Cittas martinis. Drinking one there instantly makes you feel like youre in a James Bond movie. The art projection playing on the wall, the waiters in their white jackets, and the perfect martinis create a fantastic atmosphere. Who makes Melbournes most killer sandwich? Im not the biggest sandwich person, but when I do crave one, I will be going straight to Miznon. Nine out of 10 times, Ill get the Cheakypita (falafels) or the Golden Fish and a bag of the green beans. Its to die for. Review Join the pita party at Miznon, Melbourne Advertisement Is there anywhere that you order off-menu and what do you ask for? A few of my closest friends work at Yugen and when Im there, I almost feel like Im at their house, and Ill get a bit cheeky. A few pieces from the omakase menu upstairs get added to my dinner, and a tester of one of the new tarts or desserts always ends up on the table or in a bag to take home. Who does your favourite bowl of noodles? Kenangan in Elizabeth Street, Melbourne. I come here for the soto ayam, an Indonesian chicken noodle soup with turmeric and ginger that reminds me a lot of home. We have a lot of Indonesian food in Amsterdam and eating here always gives me the feeling of being home for a moment. Its the most nourishing bowl of noodles out there. Whats the most uncheffy thing that you eat out, regularly? Advertisement I could live off just eating ice-cream. Even when its freezing cold, I probably still pop in to try out one of the new special flavours. I cant stop going to Kariton (Footscray and Russell Street, Melbourne), and I recently discovered Fluffy Torpedo on Smith Street too. They have some funky flavours. Piccolina and Gelato Messina also get regular visits from me. Kariton Sorbetes puts a Filipino spin on ice-cream Who has Melbournes best croissant and why? Small Batch Roasting Co. in North Melbourne. They do their croissants with a twist to them. Its nothing crazily funky, but just that little difference I like. Their chilli cheese twist is my favourite. I make up a reason to detour for it. What forthcoming restaurant are you excited to check out when it opens? Advertisement Well, of course, Vue de Monde! Weve been planning and talking about this renovation for five years. Nothing like a makeover. And I am super keen to try out Reine & La Rue; they are basically our neighbours now. Everything I have seen passing by looks incredible, and the location is already such an iconic spot in Melbourne. Smeg Young Chef of the Year finalist Viveik Vinoharan. Justin McManus Viveik Vinoharan, Lilac Wine, 27 Where do you go for late-night eats after work? Close to work would be a cheeky lamb souvlaki from Lambs on Richmond. Otherwise, Id go Seafood Street and grab some XO pipis and a few dozen serves of mantou. Advertisement Whats your number-one hidden gem in Melbourne that you dont want anyone to know about? I absolutely love everything going on at Gaea. There are monthly changing menus with fascinating pairing programs. Last month they even did a sake pairing and their non-alco pairing is so unique. If too many people find out I wont be able to go back as much. Which bar is your go-to for a great martini? Black Pearl. Found myself there after/during shenanigans far too many times. Also, Gibsons are 100 per cent better than martinis. Whats the best dish youve eaten this year in Melbourne or Victoria? Advertisement A few moons ago I went to Amaru and had this sea lettuce, eel, and quandong number that blew me away. This small tart with such punchy flavours left a great memory from an already fantastic experience. Good Food hat Good Food hat 17 / 20 Review Review: Jam and bread is magicked into an angelic dessert at Amaru Whats the most uncheffy thing that you eat out, regularly? Im a sucker for uncheffy food, the biggest culprit would easily be a double quarter pounder with two extra patties and extra cheese absolutely drenched with Tabasco sauce. Its heresy and sounds like a bad time and I can guarantee you it is. Who has Melbournes best croissant and why? Advertisement Id have to go to Monforte Viennoiserie in Carlton. The croissants were great but the kouign-amann was so dark, caramelised, and flaky it was a party in my mouth. Definitely recommend getting there nice and early. Smeg Young Chef of the Year finalist Cameron Tay-Yap. Justin McManus Cameron Tay-Yap, Amaru, 26 Who makes Melbournes most killer sandwich? For me, nothing beats Hectors Deli. Especially after an early morning dive or forage, I love to start with their bacon, egg, and sausage breakfast sandwich. Advertisement What forthcoming restaurant are you excited to check out when it opens? I am most looking forward to seeing what Mika Chae does at his upcoming restaurant Doju late this year. After briefly working with him at Attica during lockdown, paired with his time at Grain of the Silos in Tasmania, its built my anticipation for quite some time. He is very talented and creative, and I cant wait to see what he has in store for everyone. Whats the best dish youve eaten this year in Melbourne or Victoria? Rosheen Kaul does a fantastic abalone and lardo skewer at Etta. I had a fantastic meal there earlier this year, but this dish was a stand-out: all sweet and umami-driven flavours with the smoky kiss of fire. A real knock-out dish. Good Food hat 15 / 20 Review Etta is one of the most 'Melbourne' restaurants in Melbourne Advertisement Whats your number-one hidden gem in Melbourne that you dont want anyone to know about? My number one hidden gem is barely about food and hospitality but rather great vibes. It is La Roca Boulders rockclimbing gym in Oakleigh, and while they do a mean coffee and we do have the occasional barbecue on a sunny day there, it has been a haven to stay active and fit with great company and friendly faces all these years. Where do you go for late-night eats after work? What are your picks of the menu? Nothing beats Seafood Street after a good late service. We always go for their XO pipis with Chinese doughnuts and water spinach. Their unagi fried rice always hits the spot too. Accompanied with ice-cold herbal tea, its the perfect cool-down meal after work. Who does your favourite bowl of noodles? Advertisement My favourite bowl of noodles is Penang-style Hokkien prawn mee. It is a chicken and prawn-based broth with both vermicelli and egg noodles. I recently had it back in Penang and it was unreal. Strong, bold, punchy flavours with light spice. Now in Melbourne, the best rendition of it - aside from my mums of course - I think is from Jade Kingdom in Heidelberg Heights. Growing up in that part of town, it was our go-to and was always busy. That dish was always both my and my mums favourite. Whats the most uncheffy thing that you eat out, regularly? A huge guilty pleasure is KFCs wicked wings. I often find myself craving the lightly spiced super crunchy wings. Even though its definitely not healthy or very cheffy its like an itch that just needs to be scratched sometimes. Smeg Young Chef of the Year finalist Lily McGrath. Justin McManus Lily McGrath, MoVida, 26 Advertisement Where do you go for late-night eats after work? Supper Inn will always be my go-to. I used to go every Sunday with an old co-worker, we always got Chinese broccoli with garlic, beef in black bean sauce, steamed rice, green tea, and one other dish wed rotate out each week: fried bean curd, mapo tofu, or sweet and sour pork ribs. Who does your favourite bowl of noodles? My favourite bowl of noodles is from Parco Ramen Yatai on Elizabeth Street, my partner and I go every Thursday, its a tradition that I absolutely love. They make great chicken ramen. Sinking a hot bowl of noodles and a beer while talking to my wife about our day is unbeatable. Whats the most uncheffy thing that you eat out, regularly? Probably the most uncheffy thing I eat regularly is brunch. Im an absolute fiend for brunch. Im a very early riser. Ive caught a fair bit of flack over the years from my co-workers because its the easiest meal to make at home yourself, but I simply dont feel like doing that. I usually go to Hot Poppy Cafe in North Melbourne, or Affinity on Errol. I always get a big breakfast or a Japanese set lunch respectively. Whats your number-one hidden gem in Melbourne that you dont want anyone to know about? Osaka Bench on Flinders Lane is a great tiny little Japanese restaurant. It seats probably 15 people or so, Its usually 80% full, but theres always a space because the service is superfast and they turn tables quickly. Its so cheap and its so tasty. I always order the katsu curry. Advertisement Whats Melbournes most killer sandwich? I dont know if youd quite call it a sandwich, but [I rate] the Breakfast (sausage, egg, and cheese) from Hectors Deli. I also buy a hash brown and stick it in there, too. Breakfast sandwiches are the GOAT and Ill die on that hill. Whats the best dish youve eaten this year in Melbourne or Victoria? The best dish Ive eaten this year was the bread and preserves at Gray and Gray in Northcote. It was super simple, but all the bits and bobs were all so tasty and it opened up the best meal Ive had this year too. The whipped sunflower seed butter, pickled white beets, and the green beans in broad bean miso were especially good. Which bar is your go-to for a great martini? Bar Bellamy on Rathdowne Street makes the best martini, and just cocktails in general, that Ive had in years. Its a great space, the food is awesome, the staff are great, and its super cosy. 14 / 20 Review Bar Bellamy brings the Rathdowne Village spirit and charm into Carlton proper Smeg Young Chef of the Year finalist Cassandre Morris. Justin McManus Advertisement Cassandre Morris, Gimlet at Cavendish House, 28 Whats the best dish youve eaten this year in Melbourne or Victoria? Lions mane mushroom schnitzel at Greasy Zoes (Hurstbridge). The whole tasting menu was delicious, creative and thoughtful, but this stuck out as very clever and tasty. Lions Mane mushroom has a similar texture to chicken. Eating this reminded me of a crumbed chicken schnitzel and opened my mind as to how you can approach an ingredient. Good Food hat 15 / 20 Review Greasy Zoe's: Tiny mighty excellence in Hurstbridge Whats Melbournes most killer sandwich? Nicos fried chicken sandwich. I had my first Nicos recently (very late to the party) and it definitely lived up to the hype a perfect ratio of bread, fried chicken, lettuce and mayo. The pickles make it the best sandwich in Melbourne for me. Who does your favourite bowl of noodles? Shujinko Flinders opposite Flinders Street Station makes my favourite ramen. Its hard to pass up when theres a long wait for your train after a really busy day. Always ask for an extra egg. Advertisement Whats the most uncheffy thing that you eat out, regularly? Im not ashamed to admit that my partner and I will get a bratwurst every week from Mr. Bratwurst in Prahran Market. It was our lockdown treat and remains to be our guilty pleasure. I order the bratwurst with onion and load it with mustard - honestly, its so good! Who has Melbournes best croissant and why? Monforte Viennoiserie the honey and sea salt with the croissant elevates it to something really special. The whole space is very impressive and inspiring. What forthcoming restaurant are you excited to check out when it opens? Messmates in Warragul. Jodie Odrowaz and Michael Clarke are a brilliant team who are opening up their first restaurant I cant wait to go out there and support them and, of course, eat all their snacks. The Smeg Young Chef of the Year winner will be announced on October 30 at The Age Good Food Guide 2024 Awards presented by Vittoria Coffee and Oceania Cruises. The Age Good Food Guide 2024 will be on sale from October 31. The SMH Good Food Guide Young Chef of the Year finalists share their favourite dining secrets Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up Advertisement Eating outComing soon Sashimi bar unlike any other coming to Bondi (plus two more nearby openings to get excited about) Add fresh seafood from GetSashimi, Spanish-inspired snacks from Iberica and Easy Tigers Balinese-style suckling pig stuffed into bao buns to your beachside hit list this spring. Scott Bolles September 19, 2023 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share The best venues to see and be seen at this October. See all stories . Bondis rush of incoming spring food start-ups will include a venue its owner claims as a first for city: Sydneys first dedicated sashimi bar. The 20-seat counter will display fresh, raw seafood customers can select, which a chef will cut to order. Takeaway sashimi will also be available. Therell be an eight-metre sashimi bar and a train at the back, there hasnt been anything like this before, Antonio Muollo says of GetSashimi, which opens at the Pacific Bondi Beach development on Campbell Parade next month. GetFish is expanding into Bondi. Ari Georgopoulos The entrepreneurial Muollo has quickly made a name for himself with his GetFish business, offering home-delivered seafood in Sydney and running one of the busiest outlets at the Sydney Fish Market. Where better than Bondi Beach to open, he says. Advertisement Theres method behind his choice of location. While Sydney is littered with sushi, he eyed a gap for high-quality seafood in its purest sashimi form, drawing on Bondi Beachs pull as a destination for Sydneysiders looking for an added experience on a beach trip. Theres also the shift in consumer behaviour. People want healthier food, Muollo says. Hes banking on sashimi as the new fish and chips. On Thursday, October 19, GetSashimi will offer a tuna-cutting show (6-7pm) and free sashimi, before its grand opening the next day. Easy Tigers head chef Andrianto Wirya. House Made Hospitality You wont have to wait as long for Bondis other spring openings. A few doors along from GetSashimi, Easy Tiger opens on Wednesday, September 20. The latest venue from House Made Hospitality (Grana, Lana and Promenade restaurants), Easy Tiger slides into the space where the Rancho Seltzo pop-up ran over summer. Advertisement Head chef Andrianto Wirya has Mr. Wong and Queen Chow on his CV, and South-East Asian cooking in his DNA. Channelling his Indonesian heritage and love of the food of the region, the opening menu at Easy Tiger includes crispy corn larb, beef rendang party pies, wood-roasted cauliflower green curry and Balinese-style suckling pig stuffed into bao buns. The 70-seat Easy Tiger isnt the seaside suburbs only opening this week. Up the hill, near Tottis in the original site of Panama House, Iberica also swings open its doors on Wednesday, September 20. Iberica, a tapas wine bar, will narrow its gaze on the cuisine of the Balearic Islands, which sit off the east coast of Spain. Owner Joaquin Saez was born in Chile, but moved to Europe as a teenager, spending long period on the islands. Although best known for Majorca and party island Ibiza, Balearic seafood, bread and cheese have a distinct food identity. Jamon Iberico, petit bosque and guindillas from Iberica. Emily Abay Columbian executive chef Ivan Sanchez, a former head chef at Porteno restaurant in Sydney, will offer an opening volley of small dishes such as fried padron peppers, prawn and scallop paella with green salsa, and house-made bread with truffle butter candles. Advertisement Head barman Carlo Valdivia pushes the boundaries with a martini with manzanilla sherry, saffron gin, lemon zest and basil oil, and a red sangria. Saez, who also owns Bondi Greek-focused Mediterranean Ikaria, is hopeful tapas is set to stage a revival in Sydney. After a relatively quiet period following Sydneys post-Olympics tapas obsession, Saez believes the next-gen of operators are focused on quality over quantity. Its a wave of people trying to do it the right way. Ibericas Spanish-inspired fit-out. Emily Abay GetSashimi (from October 20): Open daily 10.30am-9pm Advertisement 182 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach Easy Tiger Open lunch Fri-Sun; dinner Wed-Sun 182 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach, easytigerbondibeach.com Iberica Advertisement Open lunch Sat-Sun; dinner Wed-Sun 251 Bondi Road, Bondi, ibericabondi.com Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up In a savvy move to increase the use of this new feature, its also enabling its business customers to view a breakdown of their lower-emissions travel on their personalised dashboard a handy option that can then be used within their own enterprises climate action goals. Growing change The aim is to have Uber Green available throughout Australia, but the company knows thats a long game. It can, after all, only use the EVs driven by driver-partners. But that in itself is something Uber is working to change, echoing the Federal Governments ambitions. Currently, it counts over 2,000 EVs in its fleet, and its pulling out all the stops to encourage more of the public to make the change to these types of vehicles, and grow that figure exponentially. For instance, in June last year it pledged $30 million to promote EV usage including offering drivers a 50 per cent cut on service fees if they bring a battery-powered car to the platform. Since making that announcement, the company has already seen a marked increase in EVs as part of their offering to users. We know this approach is producing results, Brito says. Uber is offering drivers a 50 per cent cut on service fees if they bring a battery-powered car to the platform. Credit: iStock Charging forward Theres still a way to go before we catch up to Europe (Uber is forecasting that 100 per cent of its fleet in London will be electric by the end of 2025), but this offer, plus a global agreement with BPs electric car charging division, BP Pulse, that endeavours to see a significant increase in charging points at their retail outlets worldwide, is all part of push to bring all its markets in line with its net-zero strategy. This again shows Ubers aims aligning with those of the federal government. With the launch of NEVS, Minister Bowen also announced a separate focus on creating a national electric charging network, with $39.3 million allocated to that alone. A greener horizon Change is already happening. Prior to the launch of Uber Green, Uber in Australia had notched up close to two million zero-emissions trips, so the demand, and the potential, is there. And while the cost of such vehicles may be a barrier to many at present, with a united push to get EVs front and centre, the road ahead could be much, much less smoggy, as Uber Green becomes as synonymous with getting from A to B as the companys original offering has done. Uber is committed to accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles in Australia, says Brito. Together we can create a more sustainable transport future. While the couture arm of Dior under Bohan had been ticking away successfully, if not vastly profitably, the ready to wear collections that make the real money had languished in the comparative doldrums. Bohan was relieved of his responsibilities and was replaced with Gianfranco Ferre, one of the new generation of Italians challenging French fashion supremacy. Bohan, who learnt of his dismissal after the news was leaked to US fashion paper Womens Wear Daily, was said by a close friend to be furious at his treatment. It was not done with elegance or grace, said the friend. All the negotiations with Ferre went on behind his back. Marc heard about it by accident. He was working on his next collection. Marc Bohan for Christian Dior Fall 1979 Ready to Wear Advance. Credit: Getty The more conservative elements of the fashion world were outraged and loyal customers resigned in protest. It is a real blow at the ancien regime of fashion, one observer said. It was a rarefied world of paternalism and guaranteed succession. Yves Saint Laurent succeeded Dior, Bohan followed Saint Laurent, grand dressmakers in stately procession. Thats how they thought it would always be. Marc Roger Maurice Louis Bohan was born in Versailles on August 22, 1926, the son of a businessman and a milliner. He was educated at Lycee Lakanal in Sceaux. In 1945, he arrived in Paris without friends or useful contacts and, determined to follow an artistic career, looked for work as an illustrator. North Head Sanctuary at Manly would be transformed with a new walking track and food and beverage outlets under plans to lure more visitors to one of Sydneys most prized headland parks. A draft master plan released on Tuesday proposes the creation of a shared pedestrian and cycle path that would loop the headland, as well as a First Nations cultural space. It also suggests opening up closed parts of the former military defences, including tunnels and gun emplacements, to tourists. The draft master plan for North Head includes a new walking track, food and beverage options and a First Nations cultural space. Credit: Sydney Harbour Federation Trust executive director Janet Carding said the draft plan aimed to enhance existing attractions at the site, which holds natural, Indigenous and military significance. Our vision is to create a walking place. While we have a really loyal group of visitors and tourists theres much more we could do to help people explore the heart of North Head and take them through, but then also understand more about what there is to discover there. The Rural Fire Service has declared a total fire ban for Sydney on Tuesday, the citys first ban in almost three years, amid a five-day blast of heat. The predicted fire rating for greater Sydney on Tuesday is High, the second tier of warning. However, Extreme fire ratings are expected for greater Sydney and the Hunter region on Wednesday, with the Bureau of Meteorology predicting 40km/h north-westerly winds and searing temperatures of 34 degrees. RFS conducting hazard reduction burns in western Sydney last week. Credit: Nick Moir During a Total Fire Ban you cannot light, maintain or use a fire in the open, or to carry out any activity in the open that causes, or is likely to cause, a fire, the RFSs total fire ban rules state. General purpose hot works (such as welding, grinding or gas cutting or any activity that produces a spark or flame) are not to be done in the open. Former child abuse royal commissioner Robert Fitzgerald and top domestic violence campaigners have accused the federal government of putting vested interests ahead of child safety by ignoring advice to trial an Australian porn passport. In an open letter to be sent to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Communications Minister Michelle Rowland on Tuesday, more than three dozen child and womens safety experts said early exposure to pornography was leading to the normalisation of violence against women and a rise in child-on-child sexual abuse. Consent advocate Chanel Contos. Credit: Jamila Toderas Signatories include consent campaigner Chanel Contos, the first NSW Commissioner for Children and Young People Gillian Calvert, parenting experts Maggie Dent, Michael Carr-Gregg and Steve Biddulph, the head of the International Centre for Missing and Exploited Children Anna Bowden, and ethicists Tim Costello and Professor Clive Hamilton. It is our strong view that the government has allowed itself to be swayed by industry resistance to an age verification system, the letter read. Vested interests should not have been put before the wellbeing of children. You wont find post or parcels in new metal lockers being installed in the foyers of apartment and office buildings around Melbourne, but the lockers could help you satisfy your hunger pangs. The thermal lockers are the latest development in the online food delivery boom. Foodifox co-founder Tim Pagram with one of the companys food delivery lockers at UniLodge in Elizabeth Street in Melbournes CBD. Credit: Joe Armao Able to keep food warm for up to three hours, they are widespread in China and have been installed in 36 buildings in Melbourne so far. There are growing tensions inside buildings when it comes to food delivery, Tim Pagram, co-founder of locker company Foodifox, says. Nikita Piil once described her dog Bronx as her whole world loyal, intelligent and protective but on Saturday, something went horribly wrong. The 31-year-old was set upon in her backyard in Success in a vicious attack by her two dogs. Neighbours tried desperately to get the rottweilers to stop by banging on the fence and spraying them with a hose, but the attack only ended when police arrived and shot seven-year-old Bronx. Bronx was put down by vets as Piils other dog four-year-old rottweiler Harlem remains in a City of Cockburn facility while an investigation into why the pair attacked continues. Bonuses and pay rises could be withheld from employees and managers behaving poorly as part of an armoury of tactics bosses can use to prevent workplace sexual harassment and discrimination under landmark new workplace laws. From December, employers must act on a positive duty to stamp out sexual assault, harassment and similar discriminatory behaviour or risk being named and shamed as part of changes recommended by former sex discrimination commissioner Kate Jenkins landmark Respect@Work report. Former sex discrimination commissioner Kate Jenkins, on whose recommendations the new laws are based. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen The laws were introduced by the Albanese government against a heightened focus on workplace sexual harassment, fuelled by numerous high-profile scandals in federal politics. The changes were resisted by the former Coalition government, which questioned whether legislating a positive duty would add further complexity to workplace laws, given vicarious liability provisions already meant employers needed to prevent unlawful discrimination, while other laws required employers to ensure the health and safety of their workers. The divide in the campaign against the Voice over signing treaties with First Nations people has deepened, with Opposition Leader Peter Dutton dismissing the prospect one day after a leading No campaigner backed the idea. Dutton ruled out spending billions of dollars on treaties if he secured government and told voters he wanted to spend money on practical outcomes instead. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton said treaty negotiations would only make money for lawyers rather than helping Indigenous communities. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen But supporters of the Voice highlighted the split as proof the No side was all over the place on whether the defeat of the Voice would clear the way for treaty negotiations, as No campaigner Warren Mundine suggested on Sunday. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has assured voters that a decision on the Voice to parliament is not about a treaty, despite comments from some Indigenous leaders who want the advisory group to clear the way for treaties. Premier Daniel Andrews has sought to justify a possible tax on short-stay accommodation given providers like Airbnb have taken over a greater share of the rental market, as cabinet ministers prepare to finalise Victorias long-awaited housing statement. After meeting on Monday, cabinet will reconvene for a special meeting on Tuesday afternoon to finalise the first phase of reform before its release in coming days, three ministers confirmed on condition of anonymity. Premier Daniel Andrews is preparing to finalise the first phase of his governments long-awaited housing reforms. Credit: Jason South Andrews is to join Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at a Melbourne press conference on social housing, which will not involve the states housing statement, earlier on Tuesday. The Age revealed last week that a proposal to introduce a statewide consumer-facing levy for short-stay accommodation would go to cabinet this week. Hotels are not expected to be included. US officials, most of whom spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss espionage, have stressed in interviews throughout the year the magnitude of the challenge. The CIA is focusing on Xi and, in particular, his intentions regarding Taiwan. The FBIs counterintelligence task forces across the nation have intensified their hunt for Chinese efforts to recruit spies inside the United States. US agents have identified a dozen penetrations by Chinese citizens of military bases on American soil in the past 12 months. Loading Both countries are racing to develop their artificial intelligence technology, which they believe is critical to maintaining a military and economic edge and will give their spy agencies new capabilities. Taken together, US officials say, Chinas efforts reach across every facet of national security, diplomacy and advanced commercial technology in the United States and partner nations. The CIA and the Pentagons Defence Intelligence Agency have set up new centres focused on spying on China. US officials have honed their capabilities to intercept electronic communications, including using spy planes off Chinas coast. The spy conflict with China is even more expansive than the one that played out between the Americans and the Soviets during the Cold War, said FBI Director Christopher Wray. Chinas large population and economy enable it to build intelligence services that are bigger than those of the United States. The fact is that compared to the PRC, were vastly outnumbered on the ground, but its on us to defend the American people here at home, Wray said in an interview, using the initials for the Peoples Republic of China. I view this as the challenge of our generation. China sees it differently. Wang Wenbin, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, has said that it is the US that is the No. 1 surveillance country and has the largest spy network in the world. Going after everything Espionage can halt a slide into war or smooth the path of delicate negotiations, but it can also speed nations towards armed conflict or cause diplomatic rifts. In late February, weeks after he cancelled an important trip to Beijing over the balloon episode, Blinken confronted Chinas top diplomat with a US intelligence assessment that Beijing was considering giving weapons to Russia. That disclosure raised tensions, but it also might be keeping China from sending the arms, US officials say. And when Blinken finally went to Beijing in June, he raised the issue of Chinese intelligence activities in Cuba. Chinas vastly improved satellite reconnaissance and its cyber intrusions are its most important means of collecting intelligence, US officials say. The fleet of spy balloons, though far less sophisticated, has allowed China to exploit the unregulated zone of near space. And the US government is warning allies that Chinas electronic surveillance capabilities could expand if the worlds nations use technology from Chinese communications companies. Artificial intelligence is another battleground. The US government sees its lead in AI as a way to help offset Chinas strength in numbers. Chinese officials hope the technology will help them counter American military power, including by pinpointing US submarines and establishing domination of space, US officials say. US officials are also more concerned than ever at Chinese agencies efforts to gather intelligence through personal contacts. They say Chinas main intelligence agency, the Ministry of State Security, aims to place agents or recruit assets across the US government, as well as in technology companies and the defence industry. Chinese agents use social media sites LinkedIn, in particular to lure potential recruits. Any time an American takes a publicly disclosed intelligence job, they can expect a barrage of outreach from Chinese citizens on social media, according to current and former officials. Responding to that threat, federal agencies have quietly opened or expanded their in-house spy-catching operations. And Wray said the FBI has thousands of open Chinese intelligence investigations, and every one of its 56 field offices has active cases. All of those field offices have counterintelligence and cyber task forces largely focused on the threat from Chinese intelligence. Those investigations involve attempts by Chinese spies to recruit informants, steal information, hack into systems, and monitor and harass Chinese dissidents in the US, including using so-called police outposts. Theyre going after everything, Wray said. What makes the PRC intelligence apparatus so pernicious is the way it uses every means at its disposal against us all at once, blending cyber, human intelligence, corporate transactions and investments to achieve its strategic goals. But critics say some of the US governments counterintelligence efforts are racially biased and paranoid, amounting to a new Red Scare a charge at least partly supported by the cases the Justice Department has had to drop and by its shutdown of the Trump-era China Initiative program. China has undertaken its own expansive counterintelligence crusade, one that echoes Mao-era political campaigns. On July 1, China enacted a sweeping expansion of a counterespionage law. And in August, the Ministry of State Security announced that all members of society should help fight foreign spying, and offered rewards for anyone providing information. Chinas Wang Yi meets US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken in July after the earlier visit was postponed. Credit: Reuters The rival governments have also established new listening posts and secret intelligence-sharing agreements with other governments. US and Chinese agents have intensified their operations against each other in pivotal cities, from Brussels to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, to Singapore, with each side looking to influence foreign officials and recruit well-placed assets. The art of mind-reading For US spy agencies, Xis decisions and intentions are arguably the most valuable intelligence they seek, but he is also the most elusive of targets. US agencies are probing exactly why Chinas defence minister, General Li Shangfu, appears to have been placed under investigation for corruption, and why Xi ousted Qin Gang, his foreign minister. US diplomacy and policy depend on knowing the motivations behind these moves. Xi Jinping limits the use of phones and electronic communications to prevent them being intercepted. Credit: Bloomberg A decade ago, the United States network of informants in China was eliminated by Chinese counterintelligence officials after the informants identities were uncovered. Since then, the CIA has faced a major challenge to rebuild its network. That is partly because Chinas expanding webs of electronic surveillance have made it difficult for American case officers to move freely in China to meet contacts. China even has artificial intelligence software that can recognise faces and detect the gait of an American spy, meaning traditional disguises are not enough to avoid detection, according to a former intelligence official. American operatives now must spend days rather than hours taking routes to spot any tailing Chinese agents before meeting a source or exchanging messages, former intelligence officials say. And Xi, like other authoritarian leaders, limits his use of phones and electronic communications, for the very purpose of making it difficult for foreign intelligence agencies to intercept his orders. But officials in the vast bureaucracy under Xi do use electronic devices, giving US agencies a chance to intercept information what spies call signals intelligence to give them some insight into the internal discussions of their Chinese counterparts. In the balloon incident, the CIA began tracking the balloon in mid-January, when the Chinese army launched it from Hainan Island, officials said. US officials also determined that commanders on the Central Military Commission that Xi chairs were unaware of this particular flight until it was tipping into crisis, and they vented their frustration at the generals overseeing the surveillance program. Since that crisis, China has paused the operations of its fleet of balloons, but US officials said they believe Beijing will probably restart the program later. Under William Burns, director of the CIA since 2021, the agency has hired more China experts, increased spending on China-related efforts and created a new mission centre on China. And although US officials refuse to discuss details of the agencys network of informants, Burns said publicly in July that it had made progress on rebuilding a strong human intelligence capability. Loading Although it is unclear how robust the new network is, some US officials think Xis extremely authoritarian governance style gives intelligence agencies an opening to recruit disaffected Chinese citizens, including from among the political and business elite who had benefited in previous decades from less party control and a less ideological leadership. Some prominent Chinese figures, including princelings of Communist Party elite families, say in private conversations that they disagree with the turn China has taken. China has also poured resources into determining the thinking of top American officials. A Justice Department indictment unsealed in July suggests Chinese businesspeople tied to the government were trying to recruit James Woolsey, a former CIA director who was in the running to be a Trump administration national security cabinet official right after the 2016 election. More recently, a sophisticated, highly targeted penetration of Microsofts cloud computing platform gave China access to the emails of senior State Department diplomats, including the US ambassador in Beijing and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. US officials travelling to China take elaborate countermeasures to avoid having government secrets pilfered. They are issued burner phones and laptops and told to leave their regular devices at home. US officials travelling to China take elaborate countermeasures to avoid having government secrets pilfered. Credit: Getty Dennis Wilder, a former US intelligence analyst on China and a senior fellow at Georgetown University, said that discerning the intentions of US leaders is one of the very top priorities for Chinese intelligence agencies. They look for senior planning and intentions, he said. What is the secretary of state really thinking? What is he really doing? What are the operations the CIA is really running against you? Measuring military muscle No issue in US-China relations has loomed larger than Taiwan. It is the flashpoint likeliest to lead to war, analysts say. Xi has said China must take control of Taiwan, a de facto independent island, and has ordered his military to be capable of doing so by 2027. But so far, the US and its allies do not appear to have concrete intelligence on whether Xi would be willing to order an invasion. And China obsesses over the flip side of the question. Biden has declared four times that the US military will defend Taiwan should China try to seize the island. But whether Biden really means that and whether US leaders plan to permanently keep Taiwan out of Chinas reach are believed to be focal points of some of Chinas intelligence efforts. In the absence of real intelligence on intentions, US and Chinese officials are focused on gathering information on each others military capabilities. The United States, for instance, has stepped up its aerial surveillance of Chinese military bases. Meanwhile, Chinese intelligence agents have penetrated many parts of the Taiwanese government over the decades, former US intelligence officials say. Chinese agents are now trying to learn more about the Biden administrations efforts to outfit Taiwan with certain weapons systems and provide secret training for Taiwanese troops. Chinese agents also seek more details on the growing military co-operation between the US and Asian allies. What is it all for? asked Mike Gallagher, a Republican from Wisconsin and chair of the Houses new China committee, referring to Beijings espionage efforts. My speculation, based on what we see around our military bases, based on their cyberhacks, is that it is all geared toward Taiwan. Other US officials also say Chinas desire to learn more about US armed readiness explains its attempts to surveil military bases around the United States. In the past 12 months, according to US officials, they have tracked about a dozen attempts by Chinese citizens to sneak onto military bases to take photos or measure electromagnetic activity. Some of the recent efforts appear focused on bases that would play an important role in a Taiwan conflict, they say. Loading In August, the Justice Department charged two US sailors with providing military secrets to Chinese intelligence agents. The sailors pleaded not guilty. But intelligence collection is not in itself a prelude to war. The espionage struggle actually could be a substitute for armed clashes, as it often was during the Cold War. London: The Metropolitan Police in London said on Monday they had received an allegation of sexual assault following media reports about comedian and actor Russell Brand. Four women interviewed by The Sunday Times newspaper and Channel 4 TVs Dispatches documentary program accused Brand of sexual offences, including rape, between 2006 and 2013. Russell Brand pictured during the height of his fame in 2009. The allegations of sexual assault cover the years 2006 to 2013. Credit: Simon Schluter The women, who have not been named, included one who said she was sexually assaulted during a relationship with Brand then 31 when she was 16. Another woman said Brand raped her in Los Angeles in 2012. Brand has denied the allegations. Sitting in a cafe overlooking the blue immensity of the Pacific Ocean in the tropical Marshall Islands recently, an official from the World Bank Group chatted with a local dad. I sat with him and his five-year-old grandson as he explained to me that his boy wont be growing old in his country, relates the official, Daniel Street. Illustration: Dionne Gain. Credit: The Marshall Islands comprise one of the worlds three most vulnerable frontline nations as oceans rise. Its just a long strip of sand built on coral atolls in the middle of the ocean. The highest point of its capital, Majuro, stands just 1.5 metres above sea level. Unless, of course, theres a storm surge. This is absolutely commanding their attention, says Street, whos been working and travelling in the region for a decade. Its horrifyingly real. PHILIPSBURG:--- Based on the success of the Enterprise Support Project and the evident need for further assistance to entrepreneurs in the local market, the National Recovery Project Bureau (NRPB) is pleased to announce that the project has been extended until June 2028. This extension will provide local businesses with more time to apply for grant funding, thereby fostering further growth and development in the sector. With this extension, businesses can now apply for grants and low-interest loans until June 30, 2025. They will also benefit from a longer repayment period, providing them with greater financial flexibility. While this extension offers new applicants a longer repayment term, it is important to clarify that existing beneficiaries who have already started the loan repayment process, will not have their repayment period automatically extended. We urge existing beneficiaries to contact their PFIs (Participating Financial Institutions) to explore potential options. In the aftermath of Hurricane Irma and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the project provides funding to support MSMEs in restoring and acquiring essential assets and covering operational expenses. Since its launch in August 2020, the ESP has supported more than 200 local businesses from a variety of sectors and provided training to over 100 participants. The restructuring of the project will strengthen the long-term sustainability of capacity building. The project is also placing a stronger emphasis on targeted support to new, micro, and small businesses. This extension and revised design of the project went into effect on September 15, 2023. Finance Minister Ardwell Irion, who has been one of the projects champions, is pleased to see a stronger emphasis on training and financial support, particularly for new entrepreneurs. Initially, the project offered only a 65% grant, however now with the revised design new businesses may be eligible for a higher grant amount of up to 75%. This option is available for businesses that partake in select small business training programs such as the ESP Training, Small Business Academy (SBA) hosted by Qredits, and the SEDP training launched by the Ministry of TEATT. Some examples of the content covered in these sessions are business plan writing and business management practices that will support sustainable and scalable results for businesses. The Government of Sint Maarten continues to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through the ESP program because these enterprises play a pivotal role in driving economic growth, creating employment, and fostering innovation. By providing partial grant funding, the government aims to alleviate some of the financial challenges MSMEs face, especially during their early stages, ensuring their survival and growth. This not only aids in job creation but also enhances the competitiveness and resilience of the national economy. Moreover, supporting MSMEs contributes to achieving a more equitable distribution of wealth. said Finance Minister Irion. As micro-businesses are essential contributors to the local economy, Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) Leo Lambriex supports these changes, especially considering Sint Maartens recovery from both the 2017 Atlantic Hurricane Season and the fallout caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the current war in Ukraine. I encourage all to embrace the opportunity to continue to grow and urge all to take up this offer, said TEATT Minister Lambriex. "Small and micro businesses are the backbone of our economy, driving innovation and creating jobs in every corner of our nation. I urge every aspiring entrepreneur to seize this opportunity provided by the Enterprise Support Project, for together, we can build a stronger, more resilient economy that benefits us all. This perfectly aligns with the UNs Sustainable Development Goal 8, which encompasses a wide range of targets aimed at promoting economic growth, creating decent job opportunities, and fostering entrepreneurship, including support for small and micro businesses, " - stated Prime Minister Silveria Jacobs. The NRPB is optimistic about the future of micro and small businesses on the island. The organization would like to thank all participating financial institutions for their continued support and dedicated work. Revised criteria can be found on the ESP webpage, please visit www.nrpbsxm.org/esp or get in contact with the ESP team by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or calling +1-721-542-8886 or +1-721-542-8887. ESP is a project of the Sint Maarten Trust Fund, which is financed by the Government of the Netherlands, managed by the World, and implemented by the NRPB on behalf of the Government of Sint Maarten. PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The Colorado State University (CSU) Department of Atmospheric Science in its latest updated recently released forecast says that the next two weeks should continue to see above-normal levels of storm/hurricane activity. The 14th named storm Nigel formed over the week but poses no threat to Sint Maarten. Nigel on Sunday was located over 1000 miles east-southeast of Bermuda. The tropical storm is forecast to become a hurricane and to approach major hurricane intensity. The Office of Disaster Management (ODM) which falls under the Fire Department (Ministry of General Affairs) and Fire Chief/Disaster Coordinator Clive Richardson, is reminding all residents and businesses to remain vigilant as the country moves through the peak weeks of the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season. ODM calls on residents to review the content of their Disaster Kit to make sure it is stocked with the essentials that are necessary. Every households Disaster Kit should be able to support members of the household for a minimum of seven days after the hurricane has passed. The Disaster Kit should contain non-perishable food, water and medicine (fill prescriptions before the storm); non-electric can opener; first-aid kit; extra cash (ATM machines and credit cards wont work if there is no electricity); a battery powered radio and flashlights as well as extra batteries; make sure cell phones are all charged prior to the arrival of the hurricane; fill up your car/truck with gas; check if your home and automobile insurance are up to date; put ID cards, passports and drivers license, insurance papers in a waterproof bag along with other important documents. If you are a parent with an infant or young child (ren), you also need to have essential items as part of your disaster supply kit: baby formula; diapers; bottles; powdered milk; medications; moist towels; and diaper rash ointment. Your Disaster Kit must also include hand sanitizer, a soap bar or liquid soap; two cloth face coverings for each person; disinfecting wipes, or general household cleaning supplies to disinfect surfaces. Now is the time to trim back tree branches from your home; cut all dead or weak branches on any trees on your property; clean-up your yard and put away items that could blow away during the passing of a hurricane; check your roof and storm shutters to make sure they are secure, and the latter are working. For those whose homes are not yet storm/hurricane ready, you should make alternative housing arrangements to stay with family or friends. The Sint Maarten community is urged to learn more about hurricane hazards and resources you need on how to prepare your family, home, or business for a storm/hurricane strike by visiting the Government website: www.sintmaartengov.org/hurricane where you will be able to download your Hurricane Season Readiness Guide and Hurricane Tracking Chart. The information here is also valuable for new residents. Listen to the Government Radio station SXMGOV 107.9FM - for official information and news before, during and after a hurricane. You can also follow weather related news and information as well as national addresses by the Prime Minister, chairlady of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) by going to @SXMGOV Facebook Page. For official weather-related information, check out the website of the Meteorological Department of St. Maarten (MDS): www.meteosxm.com or visit their social media page Facebook.com/sxmweather/ PHILIPSBURG:--- On Friday, September 15th, 2023, the organizing committee at the KPSM (Korps Politie Sint Maarten) came together to celebrate the retirement and express their heartfelt appreciation for Ms. Deborah Ann Rombley, an outstanding public servant who has dedicated over four decades to the Ministry of Justice and the Government of Sint Maarten. The ceremony, held at a location filled with history and significance, saw a distinguished lineup of speakers and performers, including The Honorable Minister of Justice Anna E. Richardson, Chief of Police Carl John, and Sharon Canegiter, President of WICSU, among others. They all joined in paying tribute to Ms. Rombley, who has earned a reputation as a one-of-a-kind asset to the KPSM. The Honorable Minister of Justice Anna E. Richardson delivered a moving speech, stating, "We have gathered here to express our heartfelt gratitude and extend a sincere thank you to a remarkable individual who has dedicated over four decades of her life in service to the Ministry of Justice and, by extension, the Government of Sint Maarten. That individual is none other than Ms. Deborah Ann Rombley." Ms. Rombley's remarkable journey in public service began on June 1st, 1980, when she joined the Federal Government Service (KPNA) as an Administrative Clerk in the Immigration Department, located on the Backstreet in those early days. Throughout the years, she exhibited unwavering commitment, determination, and a strong work ethic. Her career continued to flourish even as the Immigration Department transitioned to the Walter Kramers Police Station in 1992. Ms. Rombley gracefully adapted to change and showcased her professionalism. By 1995, she had moved on to the Department of JAZ (Permits department), displaying her versatility and adaptability. In 2005, she faced another transition as she was transferred from the JAZ department to the Administration department, where she took on the role of Department Head. This marked a significant milestone in her career, and her leadership qualities shone brightly. Throughout her journey, Ms. Rombley weathered the storms of reorganizations, consistently adapting to change and demonstrating resilience as a dedicated public servant. Her unwavering commitment has left an indelible mark on the Ministry of Justice and the Government of Sint Maarten. Ms. Deborah Ann Rombley is officially set to retire on November 11th, 2023, marking an astonishing 43 years and 6 months of unparalleled service. Her dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on the Ministry of Justice and the Government of Sint Maarten. As a token of appreciation from the Ministry of Justice, Minister Richardson presented Ms. Rombley with a time piece and stated As we express our gratitude today, let us also reflect on the value of time. Time is a precious commodity that cannot be replenished. Ms. Rombley, you have chosen to spend a significant portion of your life in the service of our nation. Your dedication, sacrifices, and contributions have not gone unnoticed, and you have positively impacted the lives of countless individuals through your work in the Ministry of Justice. On behalf of the Ministry of Justice, the Government of Sint Maarten, and in particular KPSM, as well as the entire community, we extend our deepest thanks to you, Ms. Deborah Ann Rombley. Your legacy of service will serve as an inspiration to future generations of public servants. May your retirement be filled with joy, relaxation, and the knowledge that you have left an indelible mark on our beloved Sint Maarten. PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister and Minister of General Affairs Silveria Jacobs embarked on a significant diplomatic journey, participating in the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York City. This historic visit underscores the importance of Sint Maartens presence on the global stage and emphasizes the vital role our island nation plays in addressing critical global issues. The UNGA started on Sunday, September 17, and featured panels on energy, gender equality, violence against women and girls, and a UNICEF reception. The Prime Ministers participation in the UNGA reflects Sint Maartens unwavering commitment to international cooperation and sustainable development. As the leader of our vibrant and resilient island nation, Prime Minister Jacobs brings a unique perspective to the global community, one shaped by the challenges and triumphs of a Small Island Developing States (SIDS) facing the impacts of climate change, economic resilience, and social development. Prime Minister Jacobs expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent Sint Maarten at this prestigious event. On our agenda this year, there is a distinct focus on SIDS, Sustainable Development Goals, climate change, energy transition, womens and childrens rights, access to financing, and Social and economic development for our people. During my bilateral meetings I will focus on developing new and strengthening old relationships with regional and international leaders as well as Kingdom partners. Said Prime Minister Jacobs. Her participation in UNGA 2023 reaffirms Sint Maartens dedication to working collaboratively with the international community to address the worlds most pressing challenges. PHILIPSBURG:--- After successfully completing a full year of training, fourteen aspirants received their Coast Guard certificate and diploma for Extraordinary Police Officer from the Director of the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard, Walter Hansen and Alpha Falbru, Director of the Opleidingsinstituut Rechtshandhaving en Veiligheidszorg (ORV). The aspirants received their diploma and certificate during an official ceremony at the Parera Naval Base in Curacao as their loved ones looked on. The aspirants are now full members of the Coast Guard and will be strengthening the various Coast Guard substations in Sint Maarten, Curacao, and Aruba. These aspirants started the Basic Coast Guard Training, Basis Opleiding Kustwacht (BOK) in August 2022, followed by four weeks of an intensive team training regime, the so-called Samen Sterk period, in which they are put to the test both mentally and physically. After the first training weeks, the BOK started with lessons in basic skills and advanced shooting skills, seamanship skills, different legal subjects, nautical courses, and boarding procedures. The aspirants have endured many physical, mental, and theoretical challenges and are now ready to protect and help their communities. During the official ceremony, both the Coast Guard Director, Walter Hansen, and Alpha Falbru Director of the ORV addressed the new coastguards. For more than a year, the young aspirants have been looking forward to this day and its time to celebrate their achievement. After working hard and being away from their homes for a long time, they are officially coastguards. They have their diplomas in their hands and the real work at the Coast Guard can begin. The new coastguards will soon go to their coastguard substation in their respective countries where they will be deployed at sea together with their fellow coastguards. USCM Enters into Exploration and Option Agreement on McDermitt Lithium East Project Positions USCM with exposure to two leading lithium basins in Nevada (Clayton Valley and McDermitt Basin). Nevada is the only lithium producing state in the US.[1] McDermitt Caldera includes Thacker Pass, a construction stage project that is positioned to be the first lithium clay producing asset in the US[2]. McDermitt Caldera is potentially the largest source of lithium clays in the world. McDermitt Lithium East Project spans 6,508 acres of Bureau of Land Management claims with a preliminary surface sample of 1,907ppm lithium. Occupies a geologically strategic position on the margin of the McDermitt caldera similar to that occupied by the Thacker Pass project1, which is 19 kilometers to west. Provides USCM additional project optionality with minimal initial cash outlay and earn-in expenditures over time to advance the project. Team positioned to fast-track field studies required to refine and permit targets. US Critical Metals Corp. (CSE: USCM) (OTCQB: USCMF) (FSE: 0IU0) (aUSCMa or the aCompanya) https://www.commodity-tv.com/ondemand/companies/profil/us-critical-metals-corp/ is pleased to announce that it has, along with its wholly-owned subsidiary, US Energy Metals Corp. (aUSEMa), entered into an Exploration and Option to Enter Joint Venture Agreement dated September 15, 2023 (the aOption Agreementa) with respect to the McDermitt Lithium Project in Nevada (the aProjecta or aMLEPa) with Live Energy Minerals Corp. (aLIVEa), a publicA British Columbia company listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange (the aCSEa) and its wholly-owned Nevada subsidiary, Lithium Valley Holdings Corp. (aLVHa), providing the Company with the option to acquire up to a 50% interest in the Project and a further option to acquire an additional 25% interest for an aggregate total of 75% interest in the Project (the aTransactiona). Transaction Highlights Upon the Earn-In Right (as defined herein) being obtained by USEM, this Transaction further advances USCMa?s business model to explore a portfolio of unique assets within the US. Subject to the completion of this Transaction, USCM will have exposure to two of the most advanced lithium basins in the US. This includes the Clayton Valley, the only lithium producing basin in the US and the McDermitt Basin, the first potential basin to produce lithium from clay in the US. MLEP is located east of Thacker Pass, which is the largest known lithium deposit in the US and one of the largest in the world with 3.7 million tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent reserves at 3,160 ppm lithium1. As Thacker Pass advances towards production, USCM believes that a significant derisking and revaluation of lithium clay projects will occur. The map below outlines the location of MLEP in relation to Tacker Pass project2. USCM intends to immediately commence with the geologic mapping, geochemical sampling and permitting with the BLM to position the Project as fully drill ready. LIVEa?s preliminary sampling program involved surface claystone (rock) from a historic, shallow trench (1907 ppm Li) and two soil samples (30 and 32 ppm Li). Recognizing that the area is under sampled, the high lithium value is from intra-caldera lake sediments along the margin of the McDermitt Caldera which has prompted USCM to move aggressively in securing this unique opportunity.A USCM will work closely with LIVE to further advance any and all activities leading to a maiden drill program. The Transaction is at arms-length and closing is subject to acceptance of the Option Agreement by the CSE and satisfaction of other customary closing conditions. Project Overview The Project spans 6,508 acres of BLM claims and is located within the McDermitt Caldera, an extinct 4030 km super-volcano formed approximately 16.3 million years ago (Ma) as part of a hotspot currently underneath the Yellowstone Plateau. Following an initial eruption and concurrent collapse of the McDermitt Caldera, a large lake formed in the caldera basin. This lake water was extremely enriched in lithium and resulted in the accumulation of lithium-rich clays. Late volcanic activity uplifted the caldera, draining the lake and bringing the lithium-rich moat sediments to the surface resulting in the near-surface lithium present on the Project.A ?The McDermitt Caldera is potentially one of the largest sources of lithium clays in the world and hosts some of the largest lithium deposits in the USA including the Tacker Pass project in the south portion of the Caldera. LIVE completed a technical report in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 on the Project entitled a43-101 Technical Report on McDermitt Lithium East Property prepared by John Michael William Collins, P. Geo.,a effective date December 16, 2022a (the aTechnical Reporta) which indicates high potential for the project to host large amounts of lithium bearing sediments. The Technical Report can be found on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Transaction Terms Pursuant to the terms of the Option Agreement, LVH has granted USEM an exclusive irrevocable right to prospect, explore for and develop minerals within the Project, to earn and vest an undivided 50% interest in the Project and to form a joint venture for the management, operation and ownership of the Project (collectively the aEarn-in Righta). In consideration for the Earn-in Right, USEM has agreed to incur an initial CAD$1,500,000 in exploration expenditures on or before the second anniversary of the date of the Option Agreement (the aSecond Year Deadlinea) and an additional CAD$3,000,000 in exploration expenditures on or before the sixth anniversary of the Option Agreement, for a total of CAD$4,500,000 (the aExploration Expendituresa). In addition to the Exploration Expenditures, USEM has agreed to make the following payments in cash (aCash Paymentsa) and in common shares of USCM (the aSharesa, collectively with the Exploration Expenditures and Cash Payments, the aEarn-in Obligationa) to LVH: Reimbursement of BLM fees for the Property for the September 2023 to August 2024 period; CAD$50,000 within 5 business days after the CSEa?s acceptance of the Option Agreement; if USEM elects to continue the Option Agreement in effect after the Second Year Deadline, CAD$100,000 within 10 business days after the Second Year Deadline; Shares having a value of CAD$100,000 on the CSEa?s acceptance of the Option Agreement; and if USEM elects to continue the Option Agreement in effect after the Second Year Deadline, Shares having a value of CAD$200,000 within 10 business days after the Second Year Deadline. Upon exercise of the option following the completion of the Earn-in Obligation by the Company, a joint venture will be formed between the parties to advance the Project, with each party having an initial interest of 50%. USEM will have the option to increase its participating interest in the joint venture by an additional 25% to an aggregate participation right of 75% by: (i) incurring and paying additional exploration expenditures in the amount of CAD$5,000,000 on or before the sixth anniversary of the effective date of the Operating Agreement (the aAdditional Earn-in Deadlinea); and (ii) by issuing Shares having a value of CAD$1,000,000 within 10 business days after the Additional Earn-in Deadline. If at any time LVHa?s participating interest in the joint venture is diluted to below 10%, LVHa?s interest will be deemed to have been withdrawn and been converted into a 3.0% net smelter returns mineral production royalty. USEM will then have the option and right, exercisable at any time, to purchase one-third of the royalty for the purchase price of CAD$5,000,000. QP Statement Robert J. Johansing, BSc (geology), MSc (economic geology), who is a qualified person as defined in National Instrument 43-101 a Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (the aQPa), has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release. Robert J. Johansing is a consultant for the Company. About US Critical Metals Corp. USCM is focused on mining projects that will further secure the US supply of critical metals and rare earth elements, which are essential to fueling the new age economy. Pursuant to option agreements with private Canadian and American companies, USCMa?s assets consist of three agreements, each providing USCM with the right to acquire interests in four discovery focused projects in the US. These projects include the Clayton Ridge Lithium Property located in Nevada, the Haynes Cobalt Property located in Idaho, the Sheep Creek located in Montana, and Lemhi Pass located in Idaho. A significant percentage of the worlda?s critical metal and rare earth supply comes from nations with interests that are contrary to those of the US. USCM intends to explore and develop critical metals and rare earth assets with near- and long-term strategic value to the advancement of US interests. For further information please contact: Darren Collins Chief Executive Officer & Director Telephone: +1 (786) 633-1756 Email: dcollins@uscmcorp.com In Europe: Swiss Resource Capital AG Jochen Staiger & Marc Ollinger info@resource-capital.ch www.resource-capital.ch Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor the Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information This news release contains certain information that may be deemed aforward-looking informationa with respect to USCM within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause USCMa?s actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information includes statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words aexpectsa, aplansa, aanticipatesa, abelievesa, aintendsa, aestimatesa, aprojectsa, apotentiala and similar expressions, or that events or conditions awilla, awoulda, amaya, acoulda or ashoulda occur. Forward-looking information contained in this press release may include, without limitation, the expectation that the Company will close the option agreement and fulfil its obligations under the Option Agreement; exploration plans and expected exploration and drilling results at the Project, results of operations, and the expected financial performance of the Company. Although USCM believes the forward-looking information contained in this news release is reasonable based on information available on the date hereof, by its nature, forward-looking information involves assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Examples of such assumptions, risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, assumptions, risks and uncertainties associated with general economic conditions; the Covid-19 pandemic; adverse industry events; the receipt of required regulatory approvals and the timing of such approvals; that USCM maintains good relationships with the communities in which it operates or proposes to operate; future legislative and regulatory developments in the mining sector; USCMa?s ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources, and/or inability to access sufficient capital on favorable terms; mining industry and markets in Canada and generally; the ability of USCM to implement its business strategies; competition; the risk that any of the assumptions prove not to be valid or reliable, which could result in delays, or cessation in planned work; risks associated with the interpretation of data, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; the possibility that results will not be consistent with USCMa?s expectations; as well as other assumptions, risks and uncertainties applicable to mineral exploration and development activities and to USCM, including as set forth in the USCMa?s public disclosure documents filed on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com. The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents the expectations of USCM as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. While USCM may elect to, it does not undertake to update this information at any particular time except as required in accordance with applicable laws. [1] https://www.mdpi.com/2075-163X/10/1/68. [2] The comparable information about other issuers was obtained from public sources and has not been verified by the Company. Comparable means information that compares an issuer to other issuers. The information is a summary of certain relevant operational attributes of certain mining and resource companies and has been included to provide an overview of the performance of what are expected to be comparable issuers. The comparables are considered to be an appropriate basis for comparison with the Company based on their industry, commodity mix, jurisdiction, and additional criteria. The comparable issuers face different risks from those applicable to the Company. Relevant material concerning any adjacent or comparable properties included in this press release is limited to information publicly disclosed by the owner or operator for such adjacent or comparable property. The Company has relied on the Qualified Persons responsible for such information and has not independently verified such information. The Company cautions that past production, mineral reserves, resources or occurrences on adjacent or comparable properties are not indicative of the mineralization on the Companya?s properties. Readers are cautioned that the past performance of comparables is not indicative of future performance and that the performance of the Company may be materially different from the comparable issuers. You should not place undue reliance on the comparable information provided in this press release. In 1968, NASA's Apollo 8 mission changed the course of crewed space exploration forever. Apollo 8 represented the first time a space agency had sent humans beyond low Earth orbit and to an orbit around the moon. Apollo 8 blasted off atop a Saturn V rocket from launchpad 39A at Kennedy Space Center on Dec. 21, 1968, carrying astronauts Frank Borman, James Lovell Jr. and William Anders into a 114-by-118-mile (183 by 190 kilometers) parking orbit at 32.6 degrees, according to NASA . On Christmas Eve of the same year, Apollo 8 completed 10 orbits of the moon in 20 hours before heading back to Earth. It landed safely in the Pacific Ocean on Dec. 27. In addition to achieving this milestone and setting the stage for the Apollo 11 moon landing the following year, Apollo 8 is known for another accomplishment: capturing an image of Earth that would redefine the way we see our planet and our place in the universe forever. Apollo 8 FAQs What happened with Apollo 8? The Apollo 8 spacecraft launched on Dec. 21, 1968. It orbited the moon 10 times and then landed in the Pacific Ocean on Dec. 27, 1968. During its flight, which was the first time humans left Earth orbit and orbited the moon, astronaut Bill Anders captured the famous "Earthrise" image, the first color image of Earth taken from space, which would spur the creation of Earth Day in 1970 and inspire a burgeoning environmental movement. Why didn't Apollo 8 land on the moon? Apollo 8 was never designed to land on the moon; the spacecraft lacked a lunar lander and the retro boosters needed for a lunar landing. It was, however, originally intended to be the first Earth-orbital test of NASA's lunar landing module, according to the Lunar Planetary Institute. However, NASA was behind schedule with the lander, so instead, the agency decided to send Apollo 8 to a lunar orbit. Who were the three astronauts on Apollo 8? The three astronauts on Apollo 8 were Mission Commander Frank Borman, Lunar Module Pilot William Anders and Command Module Pilot James Lovell. Planning the Apollo 8 mission A computer simulation of the Apollo module in orbit around the moon. (Image credit: NASA) Apollo 8 was the second crewed flight of the Apollo program and the first crewed flight of the Saturn V launch system, which was, at the time, the most powerful rocket ever created. NASA describes the mission objectives as a coordinated performance of the crew, the command and service module (CSM), and the test support facilities, like communications, navigation and tracking. Additionally, Apollo 8 would aim to demonstrate translunar injection and refine systems and procedures required for future lunar operations, including the Apollo 11 moon landing in 1969. All of these objectives were achieved, with NASA reporting that the Apollo 8 vehicle and its support infrastructure had performed as expected. The mission could have been quite different, however. According to the Lunar Planetary Institute (LPI ), Apollo 8 was initially intended to be a test of NASA's Lunar Module in orbit around Earth. However, this couldn't happen because the completion of the Lunar Module was running behind schedule. Rather than postponing the mission, NASA wanted to maintain its launch schedule and instead decided that Apollo 8 would journey to the moon . The crew began training for a lunar journey, but according to the LPI , it wasn't until Nov. 12, 1968 just six weeks before launch that NASA finally decided that Apollo 8 would make an audacious jaunt to the moon. Meet the crew of Apollo 8 William A. Anders, James A. Lovell Jr., and Frank Borman, (left to right) during water egress training. (Image credit: NASA) Borman commanded the Apollo 8 mission. Born on March 14, 1928 , in Gary, Indiana, he graduated from the U.S. Military Academy West Point in 1950. He then joined the U.S. Air Force and flew with the 44th Fighter Bomber Squadron in the Philippines between 1951 and 1956. In 1962, Borman was selected to join NASA as a member of its second group of astronauts. Apollo 8 wasn't his first space mission, however; he flew on the seven-day Gemini 7 in 1965 with Lovell, who commanded Gemini 7 and would serve as command module pilot for Apollo 8. Lovell was born on March 25, 1928, in Cleveland . He became a test pilot after graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, in 1952. In 1963, he joined NASA and, two years later, accompanied Borman on Gemini 7. Following Apollo 8, when he became the first commander of a prior mission to serve as a crewmate on another mission, Lovell would be part of the nearly disastrous Apollo 13 mission. Apollo 13 launched on April 11, 1970, heading to the moon with Lovell, Fred Haise, and John "Jack" Swigert Jr. aboard. Two days into the flight, an oxygen tank ruptured and caused a power outage and oxygen shortage. Apollo 13 swung around the moon and returned safely to Earth on April 17. Lovell stayed with NASA after the Apollo 13 crisis, becoming deputy director of Johnson Space Center in Houston in 1971. Apollo 8 would be the only spaceflight undertaken by Anders, the youngest member of the crew, who was born on Oct. 17, 1933, in Hong Kong . In 1955, Anders graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. He joined the U.S. Air Force and obtained a master's degree in nuclear engineering in 1962. In 1963, he was selected for NASA, and five years later, he served as Lunar Module pilot for the Apollo 8 mission, though Apollo 8 didn't actually carry a lunar module but rather a Lunar Test Article of the same weight. Orbiting the moon in Apollo 8 Apollo 8 Astronauts William Anders, Lunar Module (LM) Pilot; James Lovell, Command Module (CM) pilot; and Frank Borman, commander, transfer to the astronaut van for the trip to the launch pad. (Image credit: NASA) The Saturn V rocket carrying Apollo 8 launched at 7:51 a.m. EST (1251 GMT) on Dec. 21, 1968. During the launch, Lovell reported that the noise in the Apollo 8 Command Module was so great that communication with ground control was effectively cut off, according to The Planetary Society. But the flight was a success: Apollo 8 reached Earth orbit after just 12 minutes and orbited the planet twice. Then Apollo 8 fired its third-stage engines, which injected it into the translunar trajectory needed to send a spacecraft to the moon . Apollo 8 reached orbit around the moon on Dec. 24, 1968, at 4:59 a.m. EST (0959 GMT), settling into an orbit around 70 miles (113 km) from the lunar surface. It spent 20 hours around the moon, during which the spacecraft and its crew completed 10 orbits. During this time, Apollo 8, with optimal lighting, surveyed the prime potential landing site for Apollo 11, according to the LPI. The mission also took geological observations of other lunar features and imaged the moon's surface. Ground control lost contact with Apollo 8 when the spacecraft passed around to the "dark" side of the moon. This side of the moon isn't actually dark, however, as it does receive illumination from the sun . It's often labeled "the dark side" because it is never seen from Earth , as the moon is tidally locked to our planet and thus shows us only one side. As such, the Apollo 8 crew became the first humans to see the far side of the moon. At 1 a.m. EST (0610 GMT) on Dec. 25, Apollo 8 fired its engines again and moved to the trans-Earth injection orbit needed to bring the crew back home. On Christmas morning, as ground control anxiously awaited radio contact from Apollo 8, Lovell radioed through, saying, "Roger, please be informed there is a Santa Claus," according to NASA. After 147 hours in space, Apollo 8 splashed down in the Pacific Ocean around 1,000 miles (1,600 km) off the coast of Hawaii. The spacecraft and its crew were recovered by the USS Yorktown. The Apollo 8 Command Module currently resides at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. Earthrise and the Christmas Eve broadcast The Apollo 8 astronauts broadcast never-before views of the Earth and moon on December 24, 1968. (Image credit: NASA) While Apollo 8 was in orbit around Earth on Dec. 24, 1968, Anders used color film on the spacecraft crew's Hasselblad cameras to capture an image of Earth as it rose behind the moon. Officially known as " NASA image 2383 " but more commonly called " Earthrise ," the photo would become one of the most famous pictures in history. According to the BBC , as Anders took the photo, he said to Lovell, "Oh my God, look at that picture over there! There's the Earth coming up. Wow, is that pretty! You got a color film, Jim? Hand me a roll of color, quick, would you?" Though seemingly an innocuous remark, the request for color film would make history, with Earthrise becoming the first color image of Earth taken from space. The image became so powerful demonstrating Earth's fragility and humanity's place in a vast universe that it inspired a growing global environmental movement. Earthrise is also credited with inspiring the 1970 creation of Earth Day , which is now held annually on April 22. Earthrise wasn't the only Christmas gift that Apollo 8 delivered to Earth. Also on Dec. 24, 1968, the mission's astronauts delivered a message from space to the people of Earth. The crew read passages from the Book of Genesis as an audience, estimated to be around one-quarter of the world's population at the time around a billion people across 64 countries watched and listened. "We are now approaching lunar sunrise, and for all the people back on Earth, the crew of Apollo 8 has a message that we would like to send to you," Anders said" before reading the first passages from Genesis. Borman concluded the broadcast with the final passages and these words: "And from the crew of Apollo 8, we close with good night, good luck, a Merry Christmas and God bless all of you, all of you on the good Earth." Apollo 8 in the media Crowds gathered to welcome the Apollo 8 crew at Ellington Air Force Base. The crew had flown to Houston from the pacific recovery area by way of Hawaii. (Image credit: NASA) The Apollo 8 crew's reading of Genesis has found its way into a multitude of music tracks. Anders' words were sampled on the first two tracks of Mike Oldfield's 1994 album " The Songs of a Distant Earth ," titled "In the Beginning" and "Let There Be Light." Michael Jackson used the end section of the Genesis reading on his 1995 album "HIStory: Past, Present, and Future, Book I" in 1995. Sections of the broadcast were also used by Christian rock band Brave Saint Saturn in 2000 and prog-rock band Arena in 2005. Swedish prog-rock band Moon Safari used the first two sentences of Bill Anders' part on their song "Moonwalk". and DJs Bakermat and W&W used exerts in their songs in 2013. The Apollo 8 mission itself has been documented in a wealth of documentaries, including " Debrief: Apollo 8 ," in 1968, which was hosted by Burgess Meredith, better known for portraying Rocky Balboa's trainer, Mickey Goldmill, in the "Rocky" series. The 50th anniversary of the flight was celebrated in December 2018 by the "Nova" documentary " Apollo's Daring Mission ," which aired on PBS. Also in December 2018, the Paul Hildebrandt-directed documentary " First to the Moon: The Journey of Apollo 8 " told the story of Apollo 8 and featured interviews with Anders, Borman and Lovell. On the big screen, Lovell was portrayed by Tom Hanks in Ron Howard's 1995 movie "Apollo 13," which tells the story of that harrowing NASA mission. One of Lovell's primary motivations in the film is that he orbited the moon as part of Apollo 8 but was denied the chance to step foot on the lunar surface. Apollo 8 expert Q&A We asked NASA Chief Historian Brian C. Odom for his insight into the Apollo 8 mission and its importance. Brian C. Odom Social Links Navigation NASA chief historian Brian C. Odom is NASA's chief historian. He manages the preservation and analysis of the agency's history to current programs such as Artemis, the Hubble Space Telescope and the International Space Station. What was special about the Apollo 8 mission? What were the main aims of the mission? Apollo 8 was the first crewed spacecraft to successfully orbit the moon. The mission was critical to proving that the Saturn V launch vehicle and life support systems could send humans to the moon and return them safely to Earth. Why didn't Apollo 8 land on the moon? As the objects were to test out the ability to get a crew to and from lunar orbit, no lunar module (lander) was included in the mission. What important things did Apollo 8 teach NASA for future Apollo missions? Apollo 8 taught NASA that the integrated system of the Saturn V launch vehicle and the Apollo spacecraft could send humans to the moon and verified that the life support systems would safely sustain the three-person crew for the duration of the mission. What do you think is the most fascinating aspect of the Apollo 8 mission? I think that, beyond proving the ability to accomplish President Kennedy's important overall goal, the most fascinating thing about the Apollo 8 mission was the unscheduled "Earthrise" event captured on camera from lunar orbit. This image galvanized a fledgling environmental movement and forever changed humanity's perspective of Earth. The Apollo 8 mission came at the end of a tragic year in which Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy had both been assassinated. Apollo 8 and the "Earthrise" photo offered a bit of optimism in a very bleak moment in history. Additional resources Watch NASA Chief Scientist and Senior Climate Advisor Kate Calvin speak to Apollo 8 astronaut Bill Anders about the "Earthrise" image and how it inspired Earth Day . Learn more about the story of the space race between the U.S. and the Soviet Union and how it led to the Apollo missions in this NASA video . See footage of the Apollo 8 mission launch atop the incredibly powerful Saturn V rocket. Bibliography Apollo 8, NASA, [Accessed 08/15/23], [ https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/apollo/apollo-8.html ] Apollo 8 Astronaut Bill Anders Captures Earthrise, NASA, [Accessed 08/15/23], [ https://www.nasa.gov/image-feature/apollo-8-astronaut-bill-anders-captures-earthrise ] Apollo 8, NASA, [Accessed 08/15/23], [ https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/apollo/missions/apollo8.html ] Apollo 8, the Planetary Society, [Accessed 08/15/23], [ https://www.planetary.org/space-missions/apollo-8 ] The blocs rules of origin provision is due to come into force in January 2024, meaning tariffs of 10% are due to be imposed on exports of electric cars between the UK and the EU from next year if at least 45% of their value does not originate in the UK or EU. Dandos murder in 1999 still lingers in the memories of many Britons. Not only was she one of the countrys most recognisable faces, after fronting some of the BBCs most popular news shows, but her murder also remains unsolved. The circumstances around her death the timing, the style of the killing, and the skill of the assailant, who was never caught combined with Dandos level of public profile led to a far-reaching investigation, sparking thousands of leads, and even more theories. Saatchi Arts The Other Art Fair takes place in major cities around the world including Chicago, Los Angeles and Melbourne. The fair has been created to encourage more of an open exchange in art: A place where art feels accessible, where everyone fits in, where the experience exists outside of four white walls and the same four artists? Thats not normal. Thats The Other Art Fair, its website says. And its this creativity that London has become renowned for. The city is vast and the influences sprawling, and whether its the uptown, Victorian polish offered by Erdem, the whimsical wonders of Simone Rocha or the punkish energy of Chopova Lowena the British capital has it all. London has a fearless, unique energy, says Nash. Theres an attitude of just making it happen, and the encouragement for people to be themselves that makes it a really exciting space to be in. Esh, who grew up in east London, agrees. Growing up, the boys from East dressed very differently to the boys in West, and theres such a difference in style codes and identities within this city, he says. People from different cultures, backgrounds and parts of the city, to parties in different areas they all have their own micro aesthetic. This juxtaposition informs his design eye today. Chioma is beloved among her colleagues at Vogue, and is an editor and writer with an impeccable reputationboth here and in the fashion industry at large. Im so grateful to Edward Enninful for everything hes accomplished at British Vogue, and were all looking forward to a productive and creative relationship with him in his new role, said Anna Wintour of the appointment in a press release. I cant think of a more worthy person to follow in his footsteps than Chioma, who has proven herself adept at speaking to our digital audience and has found ways to extend Vogues reach, authority, and influence across all of our platforms. She is passionate about fashion, music and culture, and I couldnt be happier that she will be leading our editorial and creative teams in London. The Wonderland Magazine party at The Standard Hotel attracted Skepta, who was still on his high from the success of his brand MAINS catwalk debut, while Monday night was reserved for Perfect Magazines LFW closing bash, complete with many Valentino looks, Kylie Minogue and Naomi Campbell. Also there for one final hurrah before the planes leave for Milan were models Adwoa Aboah and Ashley Graham, and a younger set including Lila Moss, Cruz Beckham and Ivy Getty. Our thoughts today are with the families of everyone involved and I can assure them all avenues of inquiry will be pursued extensively to piece together the circumstances around this matter. I stopped the vehicle and spoke with the rider. I confirmed they werent making emergency contact to the 999 service. I pointed out the offence where they admitted to using their phone. Edgington had previously spent more than three years in a secure psychiatric hospital after killing her own mother. She was convicted of manslaughter in 2006 and was released from hospital in 2009.Two years later, in 2011, Edgington, who has schizophrenia, called police to say: Im dangerous. I need to go to a mental hospital. The last time I felt like this I killed my mum. Extra 100 off holidays under 14 nights using a unique TUI discount code 15% off all orders over 100 using this ASOS discount code 5% off all bookings with this Travelodge discount code 20% off everything with The Body Shop discount code 15% of all orders with The Perfume Shop birthday discount - VIP Rewards Members A member of the public had reported the crashed vehicle to police on July 5, but no action was taken until another member of the public noticed the car three days later, heard Ms Bell pleading for help, and called the police. In a letter to Lord Minto - the Governments minister for regulatory reform - Ms Clarke noted that a total of three deaths arising from an e-bike being left on charge have so far been recorded in London this year: Sofia Duartes death on New Years Day, the second death in March in Shadwell in a flat fire, and the third death in a house fire in Kentish Town in July. I say that as a dad. Ive got a 15-year-old boy and a 12-year-old girl. Im not going to let them grow up in a world where all Ive got to say to them about their future is, its going to be worse than it might otherwise have been. However the Labour leader has now reportedly reassured the Norwegian owners of Rosebank, the UK's largest undeveloped oil field, he would not block drilling development there if he won the next general election. Mr Tahbaz was freed from prison on furlough on the day in March last year that Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and British-Iranian dual national Anoosheh Ashoori were freed and allowed to return to the UK, but he was returned to custody after just two days. But experts stressed that without rejoining the single market or customs union, which Labour has ruled out, Sir Keir would have limited room to manoeuvre to reshape trade relations with Brussels if he became prime minister. Axing trade barriers with the European bloc, when the Trade and Cooperation Agreement is reviewed in 2025, may only be possible if Britain, to some degree, becomes more of a rule-follower, having been a joint rule-maker when in the EU. Ms Cordery added: We need this dispute to be resolved, and fast, but there is a deep and growing frustration among trust leaders at the sheer lack of action to even start to break this deadlock. We cannot allow strikes to become business as usual for the NHS. Her comments came during Home Office questions in the Commons and after Tory former minister Stephen Hammond asked her: She will know there is continuing widespread concern at the threat to our national security from the all-state approach the Chinese are taking to espionage activities in our country. This angered Shiva and he severed Ganeshas head after an argument between the two. Parvati was not happy when she found out and, in turn, Lord Shiva promised to bring Ganesha back to life. The devas were sent to search for a childs head facing north but they could only find an elephants head. Shiva fixed the elephants head on the childs body, and that is allegedly how Ganesha was born. Mary and I are very excited and humbled to be serving this community, and we also look forward to welcoming tourists from both near and afar who come to Sanquhar to sample the delights this vibrant community has to offer. Footage of the search was later widely shared on social media, and both Ms Williams, 29, andr Mr Dos Santos, 28, who is a Portuguese 400m sprinter who competed at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, have been critical of how they were treated. As police officers we have a duty to provide the public with the best service possible and that standard cannot be met by anyone under the influence of drugs. Among the top 10 non-UK countries of birth represented at the census, Bangladesh-born residents had the lowest English proficiency, with 38% saying English was their main language, 37% reporting speaking English very well or well, and 25% saying they could not speak it well or at all. A Kensington Palace spokesman said: The prince is very much looking forward to seeing the secretary general and they are expected to speak about climate change and the environment as well as the innovative solutions that the Earthshot Prize is cultivating around the world. She said TV executives could be invited to give evidence in front of the select committee, adding: Were going to be writing to the TV companies and asking them to set out the process for the inquiries that theyre making, and we need a kind of sense of timelines on this. The Prime Ministers official spokesman said: Its a decision for all broadcasters to consider the right approach in light of these very serious allegations. They are deeply concerning, they need to be investigated. But Im not going to dictate the actions of broadcasters or streaming services. As matters stand, however, and without in any way pre-judging the final outcome of a full trial, I incline to the view that the likelihood is that the Claimants will establish that the Defendants allegations are false. But in any event and centrally for present purposes, whether or not the Defendants allegations are true is not the ultimate issue at point here. Medical records seen by The Times show that she was treated at a rape crisis centre the same day, while text messages between the comic and Nadia show him saying sorry for his crazy and selfish behaviour, although precisely what he was apologising for was not clear. Brand, 48, a former BBC presenter who appeared widely in the media and gave evidence to MPs on drugs, now has huge followings on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. He has strongly denied the allegations, insisting that all his sexual relationships were consensual. Several new alleged victims were said to have contacted The Times and The Sunday Times in the wake of the claims of sexual assaults, including rape, made by four women to the papers and the Dispatches programme. The Sunday Times also disclosed that it had compiled a list of least 10 more potential victims whose cases had yet to be brought to public attention. The US waiver means that European, Middle Eastern and Asian banks will not run afoul of US sanctions in converting the money frozen in South Korea and transferring it to Qatars central bank, where it will be held for Iran to use for the purchase of humanitarian goods. Britain, the US, Ukraine and their allies are fighting an information war against Russia so their briefings need to be treated with caution, but are far more believable than the propaganda issued by the Kremlin. This handout image taken and released by the Bulgarian Defence Ministry on September 18, 2023, shows the wreckage of a drone with mounted explosive, which washed up on the Black Sea coast near the Bulgarian town of Tyulenovo. BULGARIAN DEFENCE MINISTRY/AFP v Initial reports suggested that the plane may have been in autopilot mode when the pilot was forced to eject from the aircraft. While he was able to parachute to safety, the plane may have continued on its flight path. Mr Zelensky said: I would like to particularly commend the soldiers who, step by step, are returning to Ukraine what belongs to it, namely in the area of Bakhmut. The country has since divided between rival administrations: one in the west backed by an array of lawless armed groups and militias, and the second in the east allied with the self-styled Libyan National Army, which is commanded by powerful Gen. Khalifa Hifter. To be clear, one comes here for Anthony Demetres show-stopping food, for the elegance of the service, and for the gently-murmuring room. But the Negroni here is always so bloody good noticeably so, enough to wonder just what they do to it to have it taste quite so clean and yet be embracingly rich (I suspect its in their own homemade vermouth). Its a Negroni to have in the winter; it is comforting, rather than prickly. Demetre is also behind Vermuteria, at the top of this page, so clearly the man has a taste for these things. Well, he would do: at the top of the drinks menu list of classic cocktails are the words I am very specific with my Negroni. The secrets? Tanqueray gin, Wild Honey vermouth, a touch of savoury bitter and the unusual mix of Amaro and Aperol. Unusual, but a bet that pays off. KOL is a Marylebone-based, Michelin-starred take on Mexican food (with prices to match) but dont let that faze you. Though meals here start with a broth and unfold over six, eight or nine courses, they are every inch as Mexican as their creator Santiago Lastra, who spent a year eating and drinking around his homeland and ran the Noma-Mexico pop-up prior to opening. Ingredients include douglas fir and fermented blackcurrant, but Lastra uses these to emulate the limes and avocadoes he avoids flying in, preferring instead to champion British produce. Combined with the carefully sourced dried ingredients he does import chilli, corn and cocoa, which can be shipped rather than flown these are a hymn to the hot, loud, multi-layered flavours one associates with Mexico. For size, try their deep, dark mole made with purple carrots and those blackcurrants, and langoustine tacos tingling with smoked chilli. If, after that, you still need convincing of KOLs Mexican-ness, head to the downstairs mezcaleria and dive into a their heady range of mezcal and tequila cocktails. You wont have any questions left by the time youve finished their signature tequila martini. It may look like a bottle of perfume, but this is in fact, gin by luxury company SEVENTY ONE. Its the perfect thing for gifting and will look the part in your drinks cabinet, and it goes down pretty easily too. The fragrant, floral gin rests in oak wood casks for 71 nights before being poured into the bottle, leading to a premium spirit. Try it in a gin martini for an extra luxe happy hour. Channel 4 announced it is conducting its own internal investigation and the broadcaster has removed content featuring Brand from their streaming service while they look into the allegations. It said: We will be writing to all our current suppliers reminding them of their responsibilities under our code of conduct, as we are committed to ensuring our industry has safe, inclusive and professional working environments. In an email sent to staff and seen by the PA News Agency, Ms Mahon wrote: You already know that I think it is critical that we eradicate all inappropriate and offensive behaviour in our industry, and that we always have a fair and supportive Channel 4 culture. A spokesman for the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) says they do not have an open investigation into Brand, and another confirms there have been no arrests following two allegations that are said to have happened in the US. Our family has been and always will be our highest priority. We undertake this next chapter with gratitude, love, and kindness. We greatly appreciate your understanding in respecting our privacy as our family navigates this transition in all of our lives. When asked by Reid on the breakfast show what he would say to his daughter Meghan if he was given the opportunity, he said: Put the past behind us and allow me to see my grandkids. In California, I can actually sue to see them but I dont want to do that. The BBC soap star and model Liberty are believed to have been on and off for 18 months before calling time on their relationship once and for all. Yes, Big Data London is free to visitors. There is also no charge to register for seminars but attendance is on a first come, first served basis, and many of the most popular sessions may be full by now. Debate starts in Deputies Chamber on simple motion against Minister of Health Alexandru Rafila Deputies Chamber on Monday started the debate on the simple motion of censure against the Minister of Health, Alexandru Rafila, told Agerpres. The simple motion, entitled "Minister Rafila - the lazy and cynical tourist who leaves Romania without hospitals," was signed by 56 Deputies from the Save Romania Union and Right Force parties. The session is headed by the acting Speaker of the Deputies Chamber, Alfred Simonis. The text of the motion is read by USR Deputy Tudor Pop. The vote on the simple motion will be cast on Wednesday. The COP28 President-Designate Dr Sultan Al Jaber has vowed that COP28 will drive international action on climate and health, with the first-ever Health Day and a climate-health ministerial. It will be a ground-breaking opportunity to determine steps towards equitable, climate-resilient health systems and mobilise vital investment in the sector. Speaking against the backdrop of the United Nations General Assembly and New York Climate Week, alongside Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Dr Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, President of Malawi, Dr Al Jaber called on the international community to support the day and ministerial, which will be co-hosted with the WHO and several countries. Dr Al Jaber stressed the importance of addressing the crucial connection between climate change and health. He said: "The connection between health and climate change is evident, yet it has not been a specific focus of the COP process until now. This must change. Health sector investments He continued: "As we prepare for the groundbreaking Health Day at COP28, we are resolute in our determination to address the challenges posed to health by climate change and encourage ambitious investment in the health sector. Our goal is to build resilient, equitable health systems capable of withstanding the impact of climate change." He went on to thank the country champions, Brazil, the UK, the USA, the Netherlands, Kenya, Fiji, India, Egypt, Sierra Leone, and Germany for their work to lead the climate health discussions at COP28. During his remarks, Dr Al Jaber highlighted the risks climate change poses to human health, including shifting disease patterns, expanding vectors, and the resurgence of previously contained diseases. He noted that WHO statistics reveal that air pollution alone leads to seven million excess deaths annually and that vector-borne diseases, such as Malaria, are expanding their reach due to rising temperatures and changing weather patterns, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. Alongside this growing threat, the COP28 Health Day scheduled for December 3 -will also take into account the fragility of public health systems worldwide, as exposed by the Covid-19 pandemic, and the urgent need for transformative changes to adapt these systems in response to climate change. Positive difference COP28 is determined to shine a light on these issues and to bring together partners who can make a positive difference. We are determined to reverse these trends by bringing the world together around an inclusive action agenda centered around a just transition, fairer climate finance and improved lives and livelihoods, Dr Al Jaber said. Finance will also be a priority during COP28's Health Day. The financial toll of health crises attributed to climate change is estimated to reach between $2-4 billion annually by 2030, exacerbating poverty, particularly in disadvantaged regions. The World Bank projects that nearly 40% of climate-related poverty will result from the direct health impacts of climate change, impacting productivity, income, and health expenses. Dr Al Jaber called for increased concessional funds to the Global South to lower risks and attract private capital. He emphasised the need to rebalance finance and called on governments to double adaptation finance by 2025, urging them to contribute generously to replenish the Green Climate Fund. He also underscored the significance of investing in health as a crucial aspect of climate resilience, emphasising that these expenses should be viewed as investments rather than costs. According to the World Bank, every dollar invested in building climate resilience yields an average benefit of four dollars. Financial institutions As such, he called on financial institutions, including development banks, to prioritise climate-health investments. Dr Al Jaber commended the leadership of organisations such as the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, the Green Climate Fund, the Rockefeller Foundation for their commitment to closing the climate-health financing gap at COP28. He pointed out the UAE's legacy and leadership to safeguard human health. He underscored the commitment of Founding Father His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to prioritise the lives and livelihoods of people. He highlighted initiatives such as 'Reaching the Last Mile', which, through His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed, has committed over $455 million to improve global health outcomes, with an emphasis on supporting resilient health systems that best serve vulnerable communities. Prominent figures The UN event, 'Looking Forward Towards COPs First-Ever Day of Health: Advancing A Bold Vision for Action, Equity, and Accountability', featured prominent figures including Adnan Amin, CEO of COP28; and Dr Maria Neira, Director of the Department of Environment, Climate Change, and Health at the WHO. The session was moderated by Vanessa Kerry, WHO's Special Envoy on Climate Change and Health. The COP28 Presidency's Action Agenda outlines a science-based, action-oriented plan focused on charting a new course to address the climate crisis. It combines passion with pragmatism and ambition with realism.-- TradeArabia News Service DefMin Tilvar: The Romanian Armed Forces need very well trained soldiers The Romanian Armed Forces need not only new technology, but also very well-trained and motivated soldiers for the challenges of the future security environment, Defence Minister Angel Tilvar told the valedictorians of the General Constantin Christescu 100 class of 2023, told Agerpres. At a meeting with them at the Defence Ministry, Tilvar said that for almost six years the most extensive and ambitious military acquisition programme in the history of the Romanian Armed Forces has been underway, adding that no piece of equipment, however sophisticated it may be, can perform without well-trained people. He told the graduates that most of them are part of a generation that uses digital technology from a young age, therefore they will do very well managing the technological assets of the Romanian Armed Forces recently acquired or to be acquired in the years ahead. About the ongoing war in Ukraine, Tilvar said that it has generated crises on multiple levels, which echo in our region and in the world, currently and even in the medium and long term. "The military education system will have to learn from this serious security threat, training specialists and leaders ready to successfully face current and future challenges," Tilvar concluded. The class of 2023 comprises 2,007 graduates of all the military educational institutions of the Ministry of Defence, including 990 commissioned officers, 493 petty officers and 524 non-commissioned officers, with 84 of the highest-performing of them having been declared valedictorians. EnergMin Burduja: I encourage other companies in our ministry's portfolio to float more stock Energy Minister Sebastian Burduja said on Monday that he encourages the companies in the ministry's portfolio to float additional stock on the Bucharest Stock Exchange and to find sources of funding for the investment projects they have considered, told Agerpres. "As the energy minister, I want to encourage other companies in our ministry's portfolio to float additional stock, and we will work on this next year during my tenure, precisely to encourage transparency and professionalism, and also to encourage these companies to find sources of funding for the big investment projects they have in mind. Last but not least, encouraging the capital market means encouraging Romanians to save and invest what they have managed to save. It's one thing to keep your money in a bank account, it's one thing to keep your money in the house account, and quite another to invest in the capital market. And a simple calculation shows us that in 15-20 years, the profit or gain we have on the capital market - a safe investment, let's say, in the BET index - means two or three times more than if we kept the money in the bank," said Burduja in a video message to the sixth edition of the Capital Market Forum organised by Financial Intelligence. He said that he cannot participate in the forum because he left for Canada, where he would conclude an important agreement for units 3 and 4 of the Cernavoda nuclear-power plant. Senior official with the Energy Ministry Constantin Saragea said that the ministry is a stockholder in 33 business operators specialising in energy. He added that floating as many energy stocks as possible on the stock exchnage is being pursued as a way of establishing their because t capital value. JusMin Gorghiu: I propose creating a register of drug trafficking offenders Justice Minister Alina Gorghiu of the National Liberal Party (PNL) on Monday announced having suggested a register of drug trafficking offenders patterned on the register of sexual offenders, adding that the new register will represent a means of knowledge, of identification, operative supervision of persons who have committed crimes in this area, told Agerpres. She explained that these data can be quickly transmitted to all police stations and all other law enforcement agencies. Gorghiu said that she sent this proposal to the PNL lawmakers and it is open to the opinion of other lawmakers and civil society leaders. She presented a statistic of drug trafficking and drug-taking , which represents a "major problem," noting that these are topics that are infrequently discussed. "Today, because of some tragedies, we are discussing this problem seriously and I think it is possible to be even more serious. (...) This problem was raised by the President of Romania, Klaus Iohannis, at the Supreme Council for National Defence (CSAT) level and I am glad that this topic has the importance it deserves, in the debates at the highest level of discussion, on issues related to national security.(...) The report of the National Anti-Drug Agency ( ANA) for the year 2022, which was published in February 2023, says that 10.7% of those aged between 15 and 64 have taken at least one type of illicit drug in their lifetime. This means, taking into account the data from the Nationals Institute of Statistics (INS) that there are almost 15 million people in the age group 15 to 64 years, more precisely 14,769,705, then we can easily draw the conclusion that n 2021 (...) there were 1,600,000." According to the minister, the number is not the real one, because there are some drug-takers who do not disclose that. She added that also based on the ANA report, the age of drug-takers went down to 12 years for psychoactive substances and to 13 years for cannabis and ecstasy. According to the minister, the most commonly taken drug nationwide is cannabis, "the most trafficked and taken drug in recent years in Romania." She added that in the first six months of 2023, 360 people were definitively sentenced for drug trafficking offences, and 135 people are added in other files in which domestic and international trafficking is secondary crime. "In all, there were 495 convicts in the first six months of 2023," added Gorghiu. Ministry of Defence: Romania is sending a second tranche of its humanitarian aid to Lybia by two aircraft Two C-130 Hercules aircraft of the Romanian Air Force took off, on Monday, from the Air Transport Base 90 "Comandor aviator Gheorghe Banciulescu," heading to Benghazi, Libya, where they are transporting the second tranche of the humanitarian aid that Romania is sending as free international assistance to this country, affected by catastrophic floods, told Agerpres. According to a press release of the Ministry of National Defence (MApN), the Air Force has planned six flights on this route, in which a total of 55 tonnes of goods will be transported, consisting of food products and shelter items. The flights are taking place under the Civil Protection Mechanism of the European Union, at the request of the Department for Emergency Situations, based on the Decision of the National Committee for Emergency Situations no. 32 of 2023. PM Ciolacu voices hope PM Nehammer's attitude won't affects OMV Petrom Romania's image Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu on Monday stated, during the meeting with OMV Petrom representatives, that Romania will continue to support the Neptun Deep project, just as it will continue to support its own arguments regarding the country's accession to the Schengen area, including by presenting them in front of the European courts, told Agerpres. According to a press release sent on Monday to AGERPRES by the Government, the head of the Executive expressed his hope that "the attitude of the Austrian Prime Minister, Karl Nehammer, to continue to oppose completely unjustifiably" Romania's accession to Schengen, will not affect the image of OMV Petrom in Romania, as "such a situation would be undesirable" for both parties. "We will continue to support the Neptun Deep project and move forward based on the current form of the offshore law, just as Romania will continue to support its arguments regarding the conuntry's accession to the Schengen area, including with the European courts, if Austria does not change its position," stated Marcel Ciolacu. The Prime Minister showed that the Romanian state supports "with all determination" the strategic project in which OMV Petrom is associated with the state company Romgaz, a project that will bring our country energy "independence." "It is the most important energy project, an investment of about 4 billion euros, which will put us in the position of becoming an energy player at the European level, exploiting reserves estimated at a minimum of 100 billion cubic metres of gas - as much as the consumption of Romania for almost 10 years," said Ciolacu. The delegation was led by Alfred Stern, CEO of the OMV group. The president of PNL, Nicolae-Ionel Ciuca, the Deputy PM Marian Neacsu and the president of the National Agency for Mineral Resources, Alexandru Petrescu, also participated in the discussions. PNL's Bode: All containers coming from South America to the Port of Constanta are checked National Liberal Party (PNL) secretary general Lucian Bode, former Minister of the Interior, said on Monday that, according to official information in his possession, all containers coming from South America to the Port of Constanta are being checked, mentioning that there is the problem of the lack of scanners, told Agerpres. "Related to the Port of Constanta, in 2021, 1.5 tonnes of heroin were seized in the Port of Constanta, worth about 45 million euros. This catch was not managed in a few days, in a few weeks, it was the fruit of the work of Romanian and foreign law enforcement agencies for months, maybe even years. The same, I am convinced, is happening now. There are operations that are carried out in partnership, between the Romanian state bodies and partners in Europe and outside Europe, which will certainly yield results," said Bode, when asked about the fact that not a single gram of drugs has been identified in the Port of Constanta in the last two years. The former minister pointed out that, according to the results of the controls of the last two years, approximately 700,000 containers are processed annually in the Port of Constanta, according to the European Directive, and 3% of them must be checked. "I want to tell you, from official sources, the information I have from the management of the Port of Constanta, all containers coming from South America are checked, absolutely all of them. We really have a problem and we have to admit, the problem is the lack of scanners, we have only one scanner and that one is old and it would be necessary to have 4 scanners - 2 for each main gate. So, this story that not one gram of cocaine or drugs has been identified in the last two years is one that can be looked at in the following way: the operations that are carried out to identify, catch and break down these networks over time, I don't know how many grams of drugs have been identified from checking the containers with that scanner. I'm guessing none. These large quantities, hundreds of kilograms, tonnes of drugs, are discovered as a result of specific law enforcement operations," Bode said. He also said that he has confidence in the Port of Constanta and that all those who work in this area are doing their job. Publisind trade unions to stage protests against austerity measures The Publisind trade union federation says it will stage protests against expected austerity measures that include pay and job cuts, layoffs, tax increases, suspension of certain rights, cancellation of positions, "a deliberate, inexplicable destruction of state bodies and even making Romania's forces more vulnerable in the full swing of a war on its borders." According to a Publisind press release, the first action will be a protest rally before the Ministry of Finance, on Thursday, September 21, 2023, at 11:00hrs. "We expect a minimum of 1,500 participants in the action, who will protest against the abusive austerity measures that will come into force based on an undemocratic, non-transparent process that demonstrates the avoidance of dialogue and social partners, called 'government taking responsibility.' Along with us, other trade union organisations from the National Trade Union Bloc will also take to the streets on Thursday, considering that the austerity measures affect a wide arrange of areas and categories of employees, not only from the public sector. For the year 2023, the Framework Law on public pay provides for the calculation of wages by multiplying the ranking coefficients with the minimum wage, but the coalition governments of recent years have systematically blocked the law so that in 2023 they will be responsible for cuts and not for compliance and enforcement of the law," says Publisind. Publisind's actions begin with a rally before the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Justice, followed by successive protest rallies in Bucharest and elsewhere, starting collective action in the form of strikes at some public bodies, halting the activity of the Penitentiary Police at the end of September - refusal to do extra work, blocking Police activity - and culminate with a rally in Piata Victoriei. Publisind trade unionists are arguing that the austerity measures will have the following effects: the deletion of some functions/positions from public bodies already facing chronic staff shortages; redundancies at public bodies following mergers/dissolutions; cutting overtime pay; cutting vacation vouchers; cutting bonuses for working conditions, without improving conditions; cutting food vouchers and postponing the payment of outstanding pay won in courts. Prime minister Marcel Ciolacu, leader of the Social Democrats, said on Monday that if Austria votes against Romania's accession to Schengen at the JHA Council in December, he will appeal the decision to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), an approach in which he will want to have the European institutions as partners. "There are two moments. In October it is the first JHA reunion, in December we have the second JHA reunion - both are under the Spanish presidency and in touch with the Spanish prime minister regarding the move on the agenda. There is all openness on the part of prime minister Pedro Sanchez and all support for Romania to join the Schengen area. At the moment, with the Representation and the Foreign Affairs Ministry, we see what the best steps are. There is also a vote against Bulgaria by the Netherlands. In the meantime, the CVM has been lifted. We are also waiting for a decision from the Netherlands regarding Bulgaria, to see if we can continue to go to the package. (...) Certainly, if Austria votes against Romania's accession to the Schengen area in December, I will appeal to the CJEU. Moreover, I want that in this approach - and it is an attack of the Romanian state, not of an individual - I want to have a the European Council as partner in this appeal made at the CJEU, the European Parliament, and the European Commission, all three which support us and declared so. Therefore, things are not so comfortable for prime minister Nehammer," Marcel Ciolacu said at the end of the PSD leadership's meeting. The head of the Executive gave assurances that he will certainly use all the means at his disposal, everything related to this subject and everything that is legal to do, because Romania's place is in Schengen. "I will never be a hypocrite, I cannot say (...) that the Schengen area is outdated. So why did we vote for Croatia last year? This is a legitimate question of Romanians for prime minister Nehammer. I can't take that approach. If Schengen is to be destroyed, I have no problem with Austria getting out of the Schengen area, building kilometer walls with barbed wire and electricity, I have no problem. If Austria wants this approach, with fences, to pay for them, to get out of Schengen, we will also manage inside Schengen without problems," Marcel Ciolacu argued SMap heads presents information on drone fragments discovered in Romania at NATO Military Committee conference The Chief of the Defense Staff (SMAp), General Daniel Petrescu, presented at the NATO Military Committee conference information regarding the drone fragments discovered on Romania's territory, the Ministry of National Defense (MApN) informs on Monday. The Chief of the Defense Staff participated, on September 15 and 16, in the conference of the NATO Military Committee, in the format of the Defense Chiefs, organized in Oslo, Norway. According to a release sent by MApN, the agenda of the meeting focused on the implementation of the decisions of the heads of state and government taken at the Vilnius Summit, regarding the measures to strengthen the allied deterrence and defense posture. The discussions focused on the way to implement the Regional Plans for which it is necessary to increase the effective forces with increased reaction capacity, the development of capabilities, the adaptation of NATO command-control structures, the improvement of logistic systems including the capacity of host nations for support, equipment maintenance, military mobility, the supply and pre-positioning of stocks, as well as the increase in the number of joint exercises. In addition to the contributions made during the working sessions, General Petrescu presented information on the drone fragments discovered on the national territory, in the vicinity of the Ukrainian Danube ports, subject to intensified attacks by the Russian Federation. "I presented the course of events, some preliminary conclusions, as well as the measures taken by the Romanian Army to strengthen the surveillance device and avoid such situations in the future. I also thanked my colleagues from the allied states for their solidarity and support", General Daniel Petrescu said, according to the press release. On the sidelines of the event, the head of the SMAp had bilateral meetings with the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the United States Army, general Mark A. Milley, as well as with counterparts from Germany, Portugal and Spain. During the conference, it was decided to extend the mandate of Admiral Rob Bauer as the chairman of the NATO Military Committee by six months and the Chief of Defense of the Italian Republic, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, was elected as his successor in this position, the MApN mentions. Three patients injured in the Crevedia explosions who were transferred abroad are still intubated and mechanically ventilated, the Ministry of Health (MS) informed on Monday. The body of one of the patients transferred to Milan, Italy is over 90% burned, being intubated and mechanically ventilated, hemodynamically stable, requiring intensive vasopressor support. His condition is critical, being intensively monitored continuously. He was later transferred to another healthcare facility in Italy that is highly specialised in the treatment of burns. Two patients transferred to Lubeck, Germany, are intubated and mechanically ventilated, hemodynamically stable, showing no clinical changes in the last 24 hours. Their bodies are 40% and 30% burned, respectively. Seven others injured in the Crevedia explosions are hospitalised in hospitals abroad: A patient transferred to Brussels, Belgium, whose body is over 15% burned, is breathing spontaneously, is hemodynamically stable, with a favourable clinical evolution. He is intensively monitored continuously. A second patient transferred to Brussels, Belgium, whose body is more than 20% burned, is breathing spontaneously, is hemodynamically stable, with a favourable clinical evolution. He is intensively monitored continuously. A patient transferred to Milan, Italy, whose body is more than 45% burned, is breathing spontaneously, is hemodynamically stable and there is a favourable clinical evolution. He is intensively monitored continuously. Two patients transferred to Berlin, Germany, are breathing spontaneously, are hemodynamically stable, their bodies are more than 40% burned. A patient transferred to Graz, Austria, is breathing spontaneously; his body is over 10% burned, but he presents a complicated surgical pathology due to the location of the burn injuries and their degree, being hemodynamically stable. A patient transferred to Vienna, Austria, whose body is over 25% burned, is breathing spontaneously, is hemodynamically stable, showing no clinical changes in the last 24 hours. A patient has been admitted to the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Burns Emergency Clinical Hospital. To date, 42 people injured in the Crevedia explosions have been discharged - 40 from hospitals in Romania, one from Graz, Austria, and one from Bergen, Norway - while five have died. In 2007, Korea posted a W65 billion (US$1=W1,352) deficit for its medical service account. This was the result of more Koreans traveling abroad for medical treatment than foreigners coming here for medical care. Until now, it had been illegal for people in Korea to recommend the services of a hospital or mediate between a patient and a medical institution for profit. The only authorized types of medical services were those given to foreigners who came to Korea seeking treatment. According to the Council for Korea Medicine Overseas Promotion, 37,000 foreigners visited Korea last year to receive medical treatment, more than double the 15,000 who came in 2007. After lawmakers passed a bill last Thursday allowing Korean hospitals and other medical institutions to market their services to foreigners, the Korean medical community is predicting 2009 will be a banner year for the medical tourism industry. Korea's medical industry is racing to meet the demand. Hospitals are hiring interpreters, while some are planning to place ads on newspapers catering to Korean communities overseas. The Ministry for Health, Welfare and Family Affairs projects 80,000 people will visit Korea for medical treatment this year. But some civic groups are voicing opposition. They fear hospitals may pay less attention to Korean patients. So the welfare ministry will limit the number of foreign patients at each hospital to less than 10 percent of their total number of patients. At present, there are 7 million medical tourists worldwide, spending between W40 to W60 billion, marking an average annual increase of 15 percent since 2000. This has prompted countries around the world to lure medical tourists. Germany, with its advanced medical services, attracts more than 50,000 medical tourists a year, providing information about its leading hospitals and other medical institutions through the "Committee for the Promotion of German Medicine Abroad." The U.S., which saw more than 400,000 patients from the Middle East, South America and other less-developed regions arriving last year for medical services, does not have a policy of attracting such customers. But it publicizes its best medical institutions through international conferences and other networks. Singapore created a medical tourism visa and offers tax benefits and other perks to medical institutions that attract foreign patients. Such policies led to $330 million in revenues in 2005 alone. Two more planes loaded with relief items left Romania on Monday for Libya, a country affected by the Mediterranean storm Daniel, the Department for Emergency Situations announced. "Romania, in solidarity in the face of the tragedy caused by the Mediterranean storm Daniel, continues to provide significant support to the State of Libya. Today, two more planes took off from the 90th Airlift Base "Commander Aviator Gheorghe Banciulescu" to Benghazi, Libya. These planes carried essential relief items for survivors of the catastrophic floods that hit Libya, including blankets, pillows, pillowcases, tents, mattresses, water and canned vegetables. All of these were carefully wrapped in pallets and prepared, with a total weight of 8.5 tonnes per plane," the DSU said on its Facebook page. The DSU underlines that "this gesture of solidarity demonstrates Romania's commitment to helping the Libyan people in these trying times and to contribute to the reconstruction efforts of the communities affected by this tragedy". Returning home with a suitcase full of souvenirs can be one of the highlights of a trip. You might travel specifically to buy clothes, such as some folks who head to Hoi An, Vietnam, which is known for its tailor-made clothing. Or you might come from Japan with a case of Kit Kats in bold flavors like red bean and Japanese sweet potato, plus other unique gifts for the folks back home. Some travelers might have to limit the momentos they buy because of financial constraints. But others are bound simply by what fits in the suitcase for the flight home. With these three packing tips, youll not just avoid overpacking, but youll make room for souvenirs, too. 1. Don't pack items you'd want a souvenir version of You may have seen the somewhat cliche lists of things you likely never need to pack, like toiletries, towels or hair dryers (most hotels provide these things for you). But what about the items you do need the ones that are perfectly logical to pack, like shirts, sunglasses and hats? If youre the kind of person whos likely to buy souvenir versions of these items, then rethink how many of them you bring with you to begin with. If you pack one or two fewer shirts, for example, you can buy a couple at your destination, wear them while traveling, and bring them home as souvenirs. 2. Rent clothes upon arrival A new service has popped up in the travel industry, offering to deliver personally styled rental clothes to your hotel. Travelers wear these temporary duds throughout the trip and leave them behind at the hotel upon checkout. Trvl Porter lets you pick items to rent at $65 each (with a two-item minimum) for up to two weeks and takes care of the shipping costs both ways. Some major hotel and airline companies are getting in on the trend too. In July 2023, Japan Airlines launched its "Any Wear, Anywhere" clothing-sharing service. Customers go online and input criteria like size, style and how many items they want (the minimum is three tops plus two bottoms per rental), which generates a bundle of clothes for them to rent. And its not too expensive either. The lowest-priced bundle costs 4,000 yen (about $27). For now, though, the service is only available to passengers on international, JAL-operated flights and is just a trial project, scheduled to end in August 2024, according to Japan Airlines. Meanwhile, W Hotels Worldwide, a Marriott brand, has a partnership with Rent the Runway where clothing orders are delivered to travelers at the hotel (and returned to the hotels front desk at checkout). This service lets customers pick any four items from a selection of Rent the Runway clothing for $69. Separately, Rent the Runway also offers one-time rentals that might be ideal if youre looking for something youd wear only once during the trip (like a suit or formal gown), which would allow you to pack less. 3. Pack old clothes you want to part with Bring apparel that you were about to donate or throw away anyway. Make your vacation the last time you wear it and then leave anything too tattered to wear again in the trash. For clothes that are otherwise in good condition (perhaps youre ready to part with them because you want a closet refresh), look for local thrift stores to drop off donations. Local places of worship might also take quality second-hand clothing donations. Why you should avoid overpacking A heavy suitcase can be cumbersome to lug around, particularly if youre trying to roll it over cobblestone streets in Europe or sprint with it to catch a departing train. Bringing more than what fits in carry-on means youll likely pay airline checked bag fees (though thats avoidable with certain levels of airline elite status or by holding certain airline credit cards). If you do check bags, youll spend precious vacation time waiting at the baggage carousel. And theres still the risk that your stuff will get lost. Even protections like lost luggage insurance, which can refund the cost of what went missing, can feel like a poor consolation prize if you lose irreplaceable items like a camera (and the memory card or film inside), or tough-to-get items like the Japanese Kit Kats you flew across the ocean to collect. By returning with very few of the same items you departed home with, youll not only leave plenty of room for souvenirs, but you also might be able to make it all the way home with carry-on bags only. GRANITE CITY U.S. Steel plans to temporarily idle one of the blast furnaces at its Granite City plant and shift some work to other facilities, citing softening demand from the automotive industry during the United Auto Workers strike. That furnace is the only one currently operating at the plant. A local United Steelworkers representative said Monday that about one-third of the union employees there work in the areas that will be affected, where the plant converts ore and pellets into metal slabs. The other two-thirds of employees work in areas that turn those slabs into the steel coils that are shipped out to customers on trucks and trains, said Dan Simmons, president of USW Local 1899. A U.S. Steel spokeswoman said Monday that the company is still determining the number of employees who will be affected at the facility, where 1,450 people work 1,250 of them represented by USW. Temporary layoffs will begin in phases as equipment is idled, U.S. Steel spokeswoman Amanda Malkowski said in an email. However, even in the portion of the plant that is idled, a certain number of workers will be needed to maintain the equipment and machinery, Simmons said. Well argue for more people, and theyll argue for less, he said. Simmons said hell attempt to find other assignments within the plant for the remaining workers, but he still expects some will be temporarily laid off. Therell be fallout, he said. Malkowski said the decision to idle the blast furnace was made after the United Auto Workers announced plans to strike at General Motors, Ford and Stellantis. UAW workers, as of Monday, were striking at one major plant at each company, including the General Motors plant in Wentzville. U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski, D-Ill., said in a statement that the temporary layoffs were expected to affect hundreds of employees. Budzinski called U.S. Steels decision an outrage and cast the companys statements attributing the layoffs to the UAW strike as an attempt to pit working people against one another. The United Steelworkers chapter in Granite City, Local 1899, wrote in a Facebook post that the union will be meeting with the company to put together a layoff minimization plan. The long-term future of the Granite City plant has been in limbo since last summer, when U.S. Steel announced plans to sell a portion of the facility to Chicago-based SunCoke Energy in a deal that would eliminate nearly 1,000 jobs. The uncertainty around the plants future heightened in July of this year, when the Cleveland, Ohio-based steelmaker Cleveland-Cliffs made an offer to buy U.S. Steel. At least two other companies have since made offers. U.S. Steel rejected the offer from Cleveland-Cliffs but said in August that it was reviewing proposals. The steelworkers union has backed the Cleveland-Cliffs offer, arguing that under its labor agreement, it has certain powers to oppose bids by other buyers. It sure would be welcomed right now, Simmons said, to come in here and pull us out of this. As of last month, U.S. Steel was still hoping to come to an agreement to sell part of the Granite City plant to SunCoke but had not yet reached a deal. At some point, we really have to protect these jobs, said Granite City Mayor Mike Parkinson. These are good-paying, American jobs. Joe Holleman Metro reporter Follow Joe Holleman Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today Both of Missouri's GOP U.S. senators have lined up behind U.S. Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, who is fighting a Biden Administration plan that would withhold funding from elementary and secondary schools offering hunting and archery programs. Paul, a Republican with Libertarian roots, is taking aim specifically at gun-control legislation that passed last year. Calling the plan a "purposeful misinterpretation" of last year's gun provisions, Paul said targeting the classes was a "baseless attack on ... American values." Schmitt has signed on as one of six co-sponsors of Paul's legislation, which was introduced in the Senate last week; and Hawley is one of 19 senators who signed a letter sent in August to the White House. The letter argued that instead of improving safety, denying the money would do the opposite by not exposing young people to gun- and bow-safety regulations and practices. "I just dont think they are thinking this through," Paul said. "But I think that this is one of those things that may backfire on them as it spreads throughout the country." ST. LOUIS A 70-year-old man was shot and injured in the Central West End neighborhood Sunday afternoon, police said. Police said the man was hit in the leg in the 4500 block of Maryland Avenue, just east of the World Chess Hall of Fame. Police said the man was conscious and breathing. They did not identify him. An investigation is ongoing. Editor's note: A previous version of this story, citing police reports, said the person shot was a 7-year-old boy. EDWARDSVILLE A driver who had cannabis in his system when he caused a crash that killed a 45-year-old Highland woman was sentenced Friday to 10 years in prison. Wayne A. Stayton, 41, of Collinsville, was found guilty of aggravated DUI in a June jury trial. Madison County prosecutors argued he was high on marijuana on the early morning of Feb. 23, 2018, when his pickup crossed the center line of U.S. 40 in Highland and crashed into a truck driven by Charlene Johnson. Madison County State's Attorney Tom Haine said in a written statement Monday that the prosecution of someone for DUI related to the use of cannabis, rather and alcohol, is "an area of criminal law that continues to evolve." The trial included testimony from medical experts brought in from Colorado, Florida and Chicago, his statement says. In the end, the jurys diligent analysis led them to the conclusion that this defendant chose to become impaired, then got behind the wheel and, in fact, was still impaired at the time of the crash," Haine said in the statement. The crash happened nearly two years before the recreational use of marijuana became legal in Illinois in January 2020. Stayton's defense attorney argued during the trial that he has a mental illness and was experiencing a manic episode at the time of the crash, according to prosecutors. A federal judge in St. Louis said the reality star had squandered the opportunity to do some good with her celebrity status and instead repeat CLAYTON A former Velda City police officer who has faced a series of scandals was placed on five years probation after admitting Monday to shooting into a fleeing car while he was on duty. Former Officer Matthew Schanz, 36, pleaded guilty to felony second-degree assault for firing nine shots at a driver fleeing a traffic stop in February 2020, leaving the man with serious injuries. As part of the plea deal, St. Louis County prosecutors reduced the charge from first-degree assault and dropped a second count of armed criminal action. Schanz was arrested after the Feb. 25, 2020, traffic stop where he and his partner, Christopher Gage, pulled over a car for expired temporary tags near West Florissant and Octavia avenues in Flordell Hills. St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell said in a 2020 news conference announcing the charges that the officers reported smelling marijuana and found the drug during a search of the car before the driver took off down a one-way street. Charging documents say the officers fired at the fleeing car as it drove away, and Schanz falsely reported over his police radio that the driver tried to run them over. The 37-year-old driver was shot and crashed about a half-mile away. Schanzs body-worn camera and a dashboard camera recorded video of the shooting. Schanz, who was at the St. Louis County Justice Center to turn himself in at the time, interrupted Bells news conference, telling reporters he was yelling, screaming for the vehicle to stop and was in fear for his life before he fired. We are trained to neutralize that threat, and thats exactly what we were trying to do, he said. He said he was not trained to turn around and run away, when asked why he didnt step out of the path of the vehicle. Schanzs partner, Gage, pleaded guilty to unlawful use of a weapon late last year and was placed on three years probation for his actions during the shooting. The charge was the latest in a series of complaints surrounding Schanz. He spent about six years with St. Louis police but was fired after a 2013 domestic dispute spilled into him leading police on a vehicle pursuit. When the other man called 911, Schanz left the residence with his duty weapon, court documents say. Schanz then ignored police commands to get out of his car and instead drove off, followed by a patrol car using its lights and siren, according to court documents. He eventually stopped. Schanz was fired in 2014. He filed an appeal, but two years later, a judge confirmed Schanzs firing in 2016. Schanz was then accused in state police disciplinary documents of assaulting staff at a Randolph County hospital where he was seeking treatment in August 2016. He pleaded guilty to reckless conduct in connection to the charge in 2017. Schanz was hired by Velda City in 2018, and the following year, he was accused of assault in a discipline case for throwing his badge at the Velda City police chief, hitting him in the chest, after the chief questioned him about his whereabouts, state disciplinary documents say. As part of the plea deal Monday, Schanz agreed to surrender his Missouri police license and is barred from seeking employment in law enforcement, corrections or security while on probation. This police officer was not entitled to shoot this individual because he was fleeing a traffic stop, Bell said in a news release Monday. This individual surrendering his badge was a good outcome of this incident which could have been fatal. Schanz did not immediately return a call for comment Monday. ST. LOUIS A legal battle is in the forecast for two local television stations. Gray Media Group, the parent company of KMOV (Channel 4), filed suit last week against competitor KSDK (Channel 5) arguing it had violated a trademark by debuting a new weather brand featuring the phrase Weather First Alert just two months after KMOV began using First Alert Weather in its coverage of severe weather. Rather than compete fairly on their own merit, defendants have engaged in a blatant pattern of willful, deliberate infringement in order to wrongfully benefit from the goodwill that Gray has built up in connection with the FIRST ALERT WEATHER mark, the suit says. In 2006, Gray Media Groups predecessor, Raycom Media Inc. registered a trademark for the phrase First Alert Weather. The company purchased KMOV in 2021. In August 2022, Channel 4 rolled out a logo and branding for First Alert Weather in the St. Louis area. Then, in October 2022, KSDK suddenly debuted a new weather brand, which included the phrase Weather First next to the term Alert, the suit says. KSDK had previously used the term 5 on Your Side Weather. KMOV first alerted KSDK of the alleged breach last year, but they could not negotiate an agreement, according to the suit. As recently as July 29 during a thunderstorm, KSDK published an article and app update with the phrase the suit argues was taken verbatim from KMOV: First Alert Weather. Gray Media Co. is seeking to stop KSDK from using First Alert Weather or any other confusingly similar combination of words, and it is seeking an unspecified amount in damages. Neither a representative for KSDK nor Tegna, its parent company, immediately responded to requests for comment Monday. ST. LOUIS A man who was 16 when he shot and killed a retired St. Louis police sergeant during an attempted carjacking was sentenced Monday to 20 years in prison. Jalynn Garner, 21, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, robbery and two counts of armed criminal action in the death of retired Sgt. Ralph E. Harper, 67. Prosecutors said Garner and Harper exchanged gunfire on Oct. 29, 2018, in the citys Tower Grove South neighborhood after Garner tried to take Harpers car. The plea brought an end to the case after five years. Garner was arrested in 2018, certified as an adult, then pleaded guilty in 2019. He later withdrew that plea because he said he was pressured by the erroneous and hurried advice of his lawyer. Meanwhile, Harpers loved ones continued to attend hearings and recalled a sweet, genuine man who was part of a well-known law enforcement family and served as a mentor for young police officers. Harpers family did not make a statement in court on Monday, but they did submit letters to the judge. They declined to comment to a reporter. The family has been through a lot the last five years, prosecutor Mary Pat Carl told the judge. Harper, a 33-year veteran of the St. Louis police force, was on his way to babysit a great-niece and -nephew and was parking his car in the 3100 block of Lackland Avenue around 7:30 a.m. the morning of the shooting when he was approached by Garner, who was armed with a gun, police said. Garner and Harper exchanged gunfire. Harper was fatally injured, and Garner was shot in the arm. Garner and his co-defendant, Justin Mathews, 16, and Mathews brother fled in a stolen SUV. They dropped off Garner at the hospital, then were chased by police and crashed into a building near Jefferson Avenue and Interstate 44 about three hours later. Members of the department, including then-Chief John Hayden, mourned Harpers death. Hayden choked back tears as he spoke with reporters outside of Barnes-Jewish Hospital the night of the shooting. This is a very challenging time, he said. Garner was certified to stand trial as an adult and pleaded guilty in September 2019 to first-degree murder, first-degree robbery and armed criminal action. His attorney said he did so in order to meet the deadline for a youth services program that would potentially leave him eligible for probation when he was 21. But two months later, the state found he was not appropriate for the program, meaning he could have faced a life sentence with parole eligibility in 30 years. Garner then filed to withdraw his plea. His lawyer wrote in court documents that he was under immense pressure to make a decision in one day. He was advised to waive rights, extended then refused an offer, pled to a crime the state could not prove, and was then rejected from the only program that may provide him aid within a matter of months, his attorney wrote. Garners trial was set to begin Monday when the parties announced they had reached an agreement. Judge Clinton R. Wright said such agreements are rarely satisfying to anyone but said it was clear from the familys letters that Harper was the type of person who people should aspire to be. It goes without saying that both families receive a loss on a day like today, he said. I see it happen way too often. In a statement, St. Louis Circuit Attorney Gabe Gore said he was gratified that our dedicated prosecution team achieved a measure of justice for Mr. Harper and his family. Editors note: This story was updated to include a statement from St. Louis Circuit Attorney Gabe Gore. While households that own more than five homes increased from 137,899 in 2015 to 160,172 in 2019, those that do not own any home also grew from 8.41 million to 8.89 million and now account for 43.6 percent of all households, according to Statistics Korea. The overheated housing market starkly reflects the growing gap between rich and poor in Korea, the latest figures show. The most vulnerable people who do not own their homes are the elderly. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport has found that 42.8 percent or 3,796 households who lived in squalid one-room flats last year are over 65. Others live in small, low-rent rooms for students studying for exams or in boarding houses. The number of senior citizens who have to work to make ends meet is also increasing. The so-called economic participation rate of people aged 65 to 69 grew from 39.9 percent in 2008 to 55.1 percent last year. Ku In-hoe at Seoul National University said, "The biggest worry among senior citizens living alone is housing. We urgently need to increase the number of senior citizens eligible for housing support and benefits." JEFFERSON CITY A St. Charles County state senator running for governor on Monday threatened to burn books on the lawn of the Governors Mansion if voters elect him in 2024. Sen. Bill Eigel, R-Weldon Spring, was responding on X, formerly Twitter, to criticism of a video showing him at a St. Charles County political event burning a stack of cardboard boxes with a flamethrower. Fellow state Sen. Nick Schroer, R-Defiance, was alongside Eigel in the video, which was widely shared on social media. Critics claimed online that the senators were torching books. Eigel said they were cardboard boxes. Heres the full video for all to see! Enjoy! And join us today at https://t.co/HnjT1NGBJg to fight back against these woke radicals. pic.twitter.com/k9ysV8EEOj William Eigel (@BillEigel) September 18, 2023 The boxes, Eigel wrote, represented what I am going to do to the leftist policies and RINO corruption of the Jeff City swamp. But lets be clear, you bring those woke, pornographic books to Missouri schools to try to brainwash our kids, and Ill burn those too on the front lawn of the governors mansion, Eigel wrote. As of Monday evening, Eigels X account was suspended. Eigels page displayed a message that said, Twitter suspends accounts which violate the Twitter Rules. Eigel and Schroer said the video was filmed at the St. Charles County Republican Central Committees Freedom Fest, held Friday at Sugar Creek winery in Defiance. No books or human beings were harmed, burned, or targeted in the filming of that video, Schroer said Monday in a text message. It sure is telling that liberals have to stoop to promoting lies, hate, and divisiveness to distract from the failed policies of their party and their president. Eigels comments on book burning generated attention on social media, where he was compared to a Nazi. Nazis in Germany burned books, including the works of Jewish, liberal and leftist authors, according to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. The museum said burnings of books deemed un-German in May 1933 presaged an era of government cultural control under the Nazis. Eigel faces Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe and Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft in the August 2024 GOP primary. House Minority Leader Crystal Quade, a Springfield Democrat and also a candidate for governor, lashed out at Eigel on Monday: Bill Eigel and his extremist allies idea of campaigning for governor is using a flamethrower to burn whatever he doesnt agree with, Quade said in a statement. We deserve a government thats going to work to solve real problems, not make political stunts, Quade said. ST. LOUIS Officials are working to bring red-light cameras back to the city following a rough few years of reckless driving, red-light-running and high-profile deaths on St. Louis roads. Mayor Tishaura O. Jones announced the plan alongside other officials at a press conference Monday morning. Were looking forward to enhancing our traffic enforcement beyond traffic stops, she said. The announcement marks officials latest push to reverse a troubling rise in traffic fatalities since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Seventy-eight people were killed on city streets last year, the second-highest total in two decades. These types of tragedies are preventable, said Aldermanic President Megan Green. Officials have already ramped up some police patrols and budgeted tens of millions of dollars for road improvements. But they say they need more. The plan pitched Monday calls for red-light cameras at intersections and speed-tracking cameras on roadways. A recent study of Chicagos program linked the cameras to significant reductions in dangerous T-bone crashes where a vehicle hits anothers side enough to outweigh a corresponding increase in rear-end collisions, which are generally less severe. The study also found that safety improved at intersections without cameras, suggesting a broader impact on driver behavior. In New York, officials say speed cameras in school zones have reduced speeding by more than 63%, and injuries by 14%. St. Louis, too, got safer a decade ago when it had red-light cameras installed, aides to Jones said: From 2007 to 2013, violations at certain intersections dropped by 63%. Not everyone was in love with the plan. Attorney Bevis Schock, who led efforts to kill a previous iteration of red light cameras in the city, predicted their return would make little difference. I dont think the people running all these red lights and causing all these problems are going to respond to finger-wagging letters telling them to pay $100, he said. This is ready, fire, aim. Alderman Shane Cohn, of Dutchtown, is expected to introduce the bill at the Board of Aldermen this week, a little more than eight years after Missouri Supreme Court rulings severely restricted the use of red-light cameras here and across the state. Under those decisions, the cameras have to take photos of drivers, not just their vehicles, as the city used to do. In one case, the court ruled that the old St. Louis ordinance improperly required defendants to prove they werent operating a vehicle at the time of the violation. A draft of the upcoming bill outlines city officials solution: The cameras would no longer be an all-in-one enforcer snapping photos of license plates and sending fine letters to the addresses on file. Instead, they would function as a kind of alert system for police. They would take pictures of potential violations as well as the drivers face and license plate numbers, then send them to officers. They would then evaluate the photos to determine whether a violation was actually committed and work to identify the driver through government records. If the driver in the photos isnt the owner of the car, an officer might go through photos of relatives to find a match. If they cant find a match, then they cant issue a fine. The bill also aims to blunt concerns that the camera system will unfairly burden minority and low-income drivers and that the fines will be used as revenue generators for the city. Programs in Chicago and Washington, D.C., have come under scrutiny for those very reasons in recent years. And in St. Louis, a number of the streets with high crash totals are in majority-Black neighborhoods. The bill here requires officials to consider equity and environmental factors in addition to crash and traffic violations data when deciding where to install cameras. It calls on the police department to produce annual assessments of the program, to include demographic data on who is being cited. It also says that the money received from fines will not go to the citys general-use fund. Instead, it will be earmarked for covering the cost of administering the program for city police and courts and improving neighborhood streets and sidewalks. Jones acknowledged concerns about potential inequity. But we have to start somewhere, she said. And right now, we have a lot of people speeding and injuring people on our streets and driving recklessly. So we have to use this, as one tool in our tool belt, to address our traffic violations within our current law. FLORISSANT In the wake of new remediation work being done here on the west bank of Coldwater Creek near Jana Elementary School, residents reiterated their wish for broader testing of radioactive contaminants in their neighborhoods. They want the government to guarantee that their yards are safe for play and to plant vegetables. They want to know that the air they breathe isnt slowly making them sick from Manhattan Project waste that somehow got into their homes. Last week, in response to questions from the Post-Dispatch, U.S. Sens. Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt, both Republicans, and U.S. Rep. Cori Bush, a Democrat, all agreed with those residents and each other. Senator Hawley absolutely supports this additional testing, Abigail Jackson, a Hawley spokeswoman, said by email. He continues to push federal agencies to expand their current efforts. Christopher Nuelle, spokesman for Schmitt, said this issue is near and dear to Schmitts heart because he was raised in Bridgeton. For too long, agencies in Washington have treated this issue as a hot potato, all while residents and families were impacted by this radioactive waste, Nuelle said. Senator Schmitt believes the Army Corps of Engineers needs to do everything in their power to reassure residents and rebuild trust among those living in areas potentially affected by radioactive waste. This may mean expanded and continued testing by the Army Corps of Engineers, which Senator Schmitt would fully support. Uranium ore was processed north of downtown St. Louis for the early development of the nations atomic weapons. Waste from the effort was stored north of the airport and a nearby industrial area on Latty Avenue, both by Coldwater Creek. From there, the creek winds 14 miles through several North County communities before reaching the Missouri River. The Army Corps of Engineers is mainly testing and remediating that stretch of the creek within the 10-year floodplain. Regulatory goals were established in 2005 by the so-called Record of Decision, an extensive document that guides the costly cleanup. Bush, whose congressional district extents from north St. Louis to north St. Louis County, said in a statement that there should be expanded testing and that the federal government is responsible for not only cleaning up this mess but for compensating anyone who has been impacted. My office is committed to expanding testing throughout the St. Louis area, and I have directly requested that the Department of Energy, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the EPA amend the Record of Decision to mandate that all property within the 100-year flood plain be tested, she said. No doubt, it will be a challenge to do so. In 2022, Bush filed the Coldwater Creek Signage Act and has been trying to work with the EPA and the Corps to put signs up along the creek to warn the community of possible harms. No signs have gone up yet. Language for the signs and funding havent been finalized. In late July, Hawley co-sponsored legislation with Schmitt and U.S. Sens. Ben Ray Lujan, D-N.M., and Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, that would provide financial compensation to people with a medical condition linked to nuclear radiation exposure and who were physically present in an affected area defined by 20 ZIP codes for at least two years after Jan. 1, 1949. Affected ZIP code areas, which cover most of north St. Louis County, the north riverfront area of St. Louis, and a large swath of St. Charles County are 63031, 63033, 63034, 63042, 63045, 63074, 63114, 63135, 63138, 63044, 63140, 63145, 63147, 63102, 63304, 63134, 63043, 63341, 63368 and 63367. Hawley has also publicly asked officials to improve nuclear contamination cleanup efforts at the Weldon Spring site in St. Charles County and other parts of the St. Louis region. U.S. Reps. Ann Wagner and Blaine Luetkemeyer, both Republicans whose districts touch impacted areas, told the Post-Dispatch that they would support Hawleys measure in the House but didnt explicitly commit to broader testing that residents are calling for. Managing consequences related to the Manhattan Project is absolutely the federal governments responsibility, Luetkemeyer said in a prepared statement. The National Defense Authorization Act, which passed the Senate in July, contains language addressing these issues. I certainly support maintaining that language in the final bill. Arthur Bryant, spokesman for Wagner, said by email that the congresswoman is working to get answers from the Department of Energy about the remediation efforts at the Weldon Spring site. She supports Senator Hawleys legislative efforts to expand eligibility within the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act and encourages Second District residents who have concerns about the Weldon Spring site to contact her office, Bryant said. Contamination may have spread Many residents have concerns about areas that werent known storage sites, rather places where contamination may have spread. Places like Coldwater Creek tributaries that they say have backed up and flooded yards and low-lying areas for generations. An extensive amount of top soil was also taken out of the Coldwater Creek bottomlands to level off and build new subdivisions in North County and other areas. That contamination could have been easily moved from the creek to somebodys front yard and across the street, Mark Behlmann, whose family built about 1,000 homes in North County, said in a 2021 interview. There was also a sod farm along the creek at what is now Schaefer Bend County Park, near Old Halls Ferry Road. Federal officials havent committed to broader cleanup. Earlier this month, at a hearing on Capitol Hill about remediating nuclear waste in the St. Louis region, David M. Turk, deputy director of the Department of Energy, told Hawley that the agency merely has a supportive role in the matter with the Army Corp of Engineers Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program, or FUSRAP. We are happy to not only play that supporting role but to try to push and work with our interagency partners to be responsive, certainly to listen to the concerns that you have expressed, the concerns of the community, Turk said. Its a horrific situation. ... There is an awful lot that we need to do, not just on the science but also on the human element as well. Asked on Friday about expanding testing, a spokeswoman for the Department of Energy referred the Post-Dispatch to the FUSRAP program in St. Louis. The Environmental Protection Agency said through a spokesman that the EPA has overseen the completion of fieldwork to identify the nature and extent of radioactive contamination within the West Lake Landfill site, findings that were presented at a public meeting in Bridgeton in May. EPA is now focused on overseeing work by the Potentially Responsible Parties to complete the remedial design of the remedy selected in the 2018 Record of Decision Amendment, EPA spokesman Benjamin Washburn said by email. As for Coldwater Creek and other North County sites, Washburn referred questions to the Corps as the lead agency overseeing cleanup and contaminated areas. The Corps, which is focusing its testing within the 10-year floodplain, said they will widen sampling if test results lead beyond that narrow scope until the trail goes cold. The approved project took years to develop and doesnt include trying to track down fill dirt. Jeremy Idleman, a spokesman for the FUSRAP program in St. Louis, said Friday that focusing resources on the 10-year floodplain makes responsible use of taxpayer funds by targeting the areas at greatest risk. FUSRAP has a $30 million annual budget to work in the Coldwater Creek area. We cant randomly go to peoples backyards and test, Idleman said. Its very time-consuming, and its very expensive and we need to be responsible stewards. Donald Trump faced new blowback from anti-abortion activists this week for refusing to commit to national abortion restrictions and for calling Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' signing of a six-week ban on the procedure a "terrible mistake." Speaking Sunday on NBC's "Meet the Press," Trump repeatedly declined to say whether he would support a federal ban on abortion. He said he could "live with" the procedure being banned by individual states or nationwide through federal action, though he said "from a legal standpoint, I think it's probably better" to be handled at the state level. Regarding the bill signed by DeSantis, which bans abortions before many women know they are pregnant, Trump said, "I think what he did is a terrible thing and a terrible mistake." So far, the former president has dominated the 2024 field while at times spurning the anti-abortion groups that traditionally have huge influence in Republican primaries. Trump's direct attack on DeSantis, whom he's long treated as his chief rival, could give the Florida governor new fodder as he tries to regain momentum in his campaign and solidify his second-place standing. Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, DeSantis campaign spokesman Bryan Griffin wrote of Trump: "If you want to appease Democrats, here's your guy. If you want to defeat the Democrats in 2024, (DeSantis) is the only choice." Another campaign spokesman, Andrew Romeo, distributed to reporters a roundup of conservative groups criticizing Trump and accused him of repeatedly compromising with Democrats. "Republicans across the country know that Ron DeSantis will never back down," Romeo said. The country's largest anti-abortion organization, which backs a national ban on abortions at 15 weeks of pregnancy, quickly released a statement saying anything less restrictive "makes no sense." "We're at a moment where we need a human rights advocate, someone who is dedicated to saving the lives of children and serving mothers in need. Every single candidate should be clear on how they plan to do that," said Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America. The Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v. Wade left the decision of whether and how to restrict abortion to the states, creating a patchwork of laws across the country, with most Republican-led states imposing new restrictions and states led by Democrats passing protections. Twenty-five million women of childbearing age now live in states where abortions are more difficult to get than before the ruling. Trump has approached abortion from a political stance, saying that the Supreme Court's decision gave conservatives room to negotiate new restrictions. He has argued Republicans' push for abortion restrictions hurt the GOP in the 2022 midterm elections and that GOP candidates need to do a better job of explaining the issue. Banning abortion at six weeks of pregnancy, as Florida enacted this year, is unpopular with the U.S. public, according to an Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research conducted in June. The poll found that 73% of all U.S. adults believe abortion should be allowed up to six weeks of pregnancy, which is when cardiac activity in a fetus may be detected and before women often know they're pregnant. About half of Americans say abortions should be permitted up to 15 weeks. In that poll, 56% of Republicans said abortion should be allowed in their state up to 6 weeks and 29% supported making the procedure legal up to 15 weeks. But in Iowa's first-in-the-nation Republican caucuses, evangelicals and other social conservatives who strongly oppose abortion make up the majority of those who participate and decide the winner. Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds this summer signed an abortion ban similar to Florida's. Reynolds has not endorsed a candidate. Trump has called himself the "the most pro-life president in American history" and noted that three of his Supreme Court picks formed part of the conservative majority that overturned Roe. He has so far declined to go along with some of his rivals, including his onetime vice president, Mike Pence, who is pushing for national bans that would take effect relatively early in a pregnancy. Interviews with GOP voters and activists over the past several months suggest a split between people satisfied with Trump's record during his term and others who want Trump to endorse a national abortion ban. Republicans in some key states, including those backing his rivals, expressed displeasure after the interview. Among them was South Carolina state Rep. John McCravy, who sponsored the most recent restrictive abortion measure, which bans the practice in his state after about six weeks of pregnancy. South Carolina will be among the early states to choose a nominee. McCravy described himself in an interview as "certainly disappointed." "It sounded completely out of step with his staunch support for life while he was president," he said. McCravy endorsed South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott in the 2024 GOP presidential primary but told AP last week, "Trump would probably be a close second, noting his Supreme Court appointments and his attending the March for Life rally in Washington. TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras For decades, preventing dengue fever in Honduras has meant teaching people to fear mosquitoes and avoid their bites. Now, Hondurans are being educated about a potentially more effective way to control the disease and it goes against everything theyve learned. Which explains why a dozen people cheered last month as Tegucigalpa resident Hector Enriquez held a glass jar filled with mosquitoes above his head, and then freed the buzzing insects into the air. Enriquez, a 52-year-old mason, had volunteered to help publicize a plan to suppress dengue by releasing millions of special mosquitoes in the Honduran capital. The mosquitoes Enriquez unleashed in his El Manchen neighborhood an area rife with dengue were bred by scientists to carry bacteria called Wolbachia that interrupt transmission of the disease. When these mosquitoes reproduce, they pass the bacteria to their offspring, reducing future outbreaks. This emerging strategy for battling dengue was pioneered over the last decade by the nonprofit World Mosquito Program, and it is being tested in more than a dozen countries. With more than half the worlds population at risk of contracting dengue, the World Health Organization is paying close attention to the mosquito releases in Honduras, and elsewhere, and it is poised to promote the strategy globally. In Honduras, where 10,000 people are known to be sickened by dengue each year, Doctors Without Borders is partnering with the mosquito program over the next six months to release close to 9 million mosquitoes carrying the Wolbachia bacteria. There is a desperate need for new approaches, said Scott ONeill, founder of the mosquito program. Scientists have made great strides in recent decades in reducing the threat of mosquito-borne diseases, including malaria. But dengue is the exception: Its rate of infection keeps going up. Models estimate that around 400 million people across some 130 countries are infected each year with dengue. Mortality rates from dengue are low an estimated 40,000 people die each year from it but outbreaks can overwhelm health systems and force many people to miss work or school. When you come down with a case of dengue fever, its often akin to getting the worst case of influenza you can imagine, said Conor McMeniman, a mosquito researcher at Johns Hopkins University. Its commonly known as breakbone fever for a reason, McMeniman said. Traditional methods of preventing mosquito-borne illnesses havent been nearly as effective against dengue. The Aedes aegypti mosquitoes that most commonly spread dengue have been resistant to insecticides, which have fleeting results even in the best-case scenario. And because dengue virus comes in four different forms, it is harder to control through vaccines. Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are also a challenging foe because they are most active during the day meaning thats when they bite so bed nets arent much help against them. Because these mosquitoes thrive in warm and wet environments, and in dense cities, climate change and urbanization are expected to make the fight against dengue even harder. We need better tools, said Raman Velayudhan, a researcher from the WHOs Global Neglected Tropical Diseases Program. Wolbachia is definitely a long-term, sustainable solution. Velayudhan and other experts from the WHO plan to publish a recommendation as early as this month to promote further testing of the Wolbachia strategy in other parts of the world. The Wolbachia strategy has been decades in the making. The bacteria exist naturally in about 60% of insect species, just not in the Aedes aegypti mosquito. We worked for years on this, said ONeill, 61, who with help from his students in Australia eventually figured out how to transfer the bacteria from fruit flies into Aedes aegypti mosquito embryos by using microscopic glass needles. Along the way, ONeills team made a surprising discovery: Mosquitoes carrying Wolbachia didnt spread dengue or other related diseases, including yellow fever, Zika and chikungunya. And since infected females pass Wolbachia to their offspring, they will eventually replace a local mosquito population with one that carries the virus-blocking bacteria. The replacement strategy has required a major shift in thinking about mosquito control, said Oliver Brady, an epidemiologist at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Since ONeills lab first tested the replacement strategy in Australia in 2011, the World Mosquito Program has run trials affecting 11 million people across 14 countries, including Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Fiji and Vietnam. The results are promising. In 2019, a large-scale field trial in Indonesia showed a 76% drop in reported dengue cases after Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes were released. Still, questions remain about whether the replacement strategy will be effective and cost effective on a global scale, ONeill said. The three-year Tegucigalpa trial will cost $900,000, or roughly $10 per person that Doctors Without Borders expects it to protect. Many of the worlds mosquitoes infected with Wolbachia were hatched in a warehouse in Medellin, Colombia, where the World Mosquito Program runs a factory that breeds 30 million of them per week. We have the perfect conditions, the factorys coordinator, Marlene Salazar, said. A Doctors Without Borders team in Honduras recently went door-to-door in a hilly neighborhood of Tegucigalpa to enlist residents help in incubating mosquito eggs bred in the Medellin factory. Lourdes Betancourt, 63, a volunteer with the Doctors Without Borders team, was at first suspicious of the new strategy. But Betancourt who has been sickened by dengue several times now encourages her neighbors to let the good mosquitoes grow in their yards. I tell people not to be afraid, that this isnt anything bad, to have trust, Betancourt said. They are going to bite you, but you wont get dengue. Banish mosquitoes from your yard with these traps and repellents 1. Cutter Backyard Bug Control Spray 2. Stafi Outdoor Wireless Mosquito Zapper 3. TIKI Citronella Candle 4. Thermacell Mosquito Repellent Lantern 5. Murphys Naturals Mosquito Repellent Incense Sticks After a long and remarkable political career that included a governorship in one state, a U.S. Senate seat in another and a presidential nomination, Mitt Romney will likely be most remembered by history for one thing: his vote to convict then-President Donald Trump after his first impeachment, for trying to strong-arm campaign help from Ukraines government. It was the first time in Americas history that any senator has taken such a stand against a president of his own party and then he did it again, after Trumps second impeachment, for fomenting the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. Romneys retirement announcement last week, coupled with the release of excerpts from an upcoming biography, offered brutal judgment of his fellow elected Republicans for enabling Trump including some choice words for Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley. Its unlikely that any Trump fans will be moved to self-reflection by the words of a man who embodies the vanquished normalcy and decency of their party two qualities for which the MAGA movement has no use. But any Republican who has not yet been lost down that rabbit hole should fairly consider Romneys assessment of todays GOP. Romneys exit when his term as a Utahs junior senator ends in January 2025 will be the turning of a page: He is arguably the last prominent national figure from the old Republican establishment who neither left office during the Trumpification of the party in 2016 nor sold his political soul to stay. Romney said his decision to retire was based largely on his age. But at 76, hes younger than Trump or President Joe Biden, the presidential frontrunners for their respective parties next year. You have to wonder if there was more to it, in light of the dismay and disgust Romney expresses toward his party in the forthcoming biography, according to excerpts posted by The Atlantic last week. A very large portion of my party, Romney told biographer McKay Coppins, really doesnt believe in the Constitution. Thats not exactly a startling revelation, given that a large portion of the party continues to support Trump despite his suggestion last year that that sacred document should be suspended in order to return him to office. But reading that judgment from the partys 2012 presidential nominee is nonetheless jolting. Regarding Hawley, Romney pays him a backhanded compliment, calling him one of the smartest people in the Senate, if not the smartest too smart, Romney says, to actually believe the election-fraud nonsense he promoted that helped spark the Jan. 6 melee. Hawley and fellow Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, Romney says, were making a calculation that put politics above the interests of liberal democracy and the Constitution. Obviously. But, still. Romneys biography offers another obvious truism that is nonetheless good to see confirmed on the record: The bulk of GOP officials who publicly scrape and bow before Trump are privately contemptuous of his norm-destroying antics. Youre lucky, Romney says Republican leader Sen. Mitch McConnell told him, because you can say the things that we all think. Has there ever been a more blunt admission of political cowardice? Another colleague noted that Trump has none of the qualities you would want in a president, and all of the qualities you wouldnt. Almost without exception, Romney says, his fellow top Republicans shared my view of the president not a good one. Romney isnt blameless, having helped legitimize Trump at various times in the past. But if his clear-eyed diagnosis now of the Trumpian cancer eating at his party from within convinces other Republicans to demand a cure, history will be kind, indeed. ST. LOUIS Two Metro Transit drivers made more than $40,000 in overtime pay last year, and non-salaried employees of Metro's parent company earned a total of $7.1 million in overtime, according to a PostDispatch analysis of payroll data. In all, 32 bus, rail and van drivers earned more than $20,000 apiece in overtime in 2022 from Metro Transit's parent company, Bi-State Development, with the top-earning driver pulling in $42,095. It's a significant jump in overtime pay from 2021, when the top-earning driver collected $17,310 and all non-salaried workers received a total of $2.5 million. The overtime data was obtained as part of the Post-Dispatch's annual Public Pay database project, which this year collected payroll data from more than 120 public agencies in the area. The hefty overtime payouts are directly related to a nationwide labor shortage that has left employers scrambling to fill positions, said Taulby Roach, president and CEO of Bi-State. Unemployment rates in Missouri averaged a historical low of about 2.5% in 2022, meaning employers had a much smaller employee pool from which to hire. For some drivers, overtime pay makes up nearly half of their yearly pay. And, in rare instances, drivers nearly double their base salaries with overtime. Some weeks, those drivers work more than 60 hours, said Catina Wilson, vice president of MetroLink's main union. "It takes a special kind of person to drive strangers behind your head," Wilson said. Hourly pay for MetroLink drivers in 2021 ranged from $18 to $26 an hour so for a 40hour work week, those drivers would earn between $37,000 and $54,000. Metro budgeted for 1,117 bus, light rail and van driver positions in fiscal years 2022 and 2023, but it recorded payments to only 1,072 workers in those positions during the 2022 calendar year. And though overtime pay for non-salaried workers increased significantly in 2022, Metro Transit actually saved about $3 million overall because of having fewer workers to pay. Total gross pay for non-salaried employees dropped from $86.1 million in 2021 to $83.3 million last year. 'Not a bad job' Overtime for Metro drivers is mostly voluntary, Wilson said. They normally welcome the extra pay, but she said some of the top earners expressed concerns about spending more time driving than with their families. Still, she said, they felt compelled to serve the area and fill in staffing gaps. "They do it because they want to make sure there are buses on the street," Wilson said. "It's important to them that the last person standing on the platform gets home." Jeffrey Wright said he drives more than 10 hours a day for the company. According to pay records, he made the third-most of any employee in overtime pay last year with $35,000. He said he decided to become a bus operator because he drives better than most, merging the large blue and-green bus with ease amid St. Louis traffic. "I don't like to drive," Wright said, "but I'm good at driving." Wright said he works overtime voluntarily, putting his family and his own needs into account as he works the additional hours for Metro. He said although he made a decent amount of money working those hours, he wishes the job's base salary paid better. "It's not a bad job," Wright said. "And I've had every job you could think of." It's not just drivers who make big money working overtime for Bi-State. Mechanics can earn hefty payouts, too the top earning mechanic in 2022 pulled in $51,965 in overtime. With mechanics increasingly scarce, Roach said, those employed by Bi-State are stretched thin keeping the buses up to national standards. "By golly, if I have some employees (willing to be) working Saturdays and Sundays, why wouldn't we do that?" Roach said. The company is short 59 mechanic positions, said Jerry Vallely, communications manager for Metro Transit. That contributed to excess overtime for supervisors who worked extra to make up for the shortage. A maintenance supervisor of the Ewing Street Rail Systems, a rail yard where most of the maintenance for Metro's light rail operations takes place, made $37,752 in overtime pay good for 45% of his base salary. Risk of burnout Overtime pay is a good way to keep employees on board, Roach said. And it tends to improve morale. "My workforce likes overtime," Roach said. "They tend to be a happier workforce." Still, Jessica Gold, an assistant professor of psychiatry at Washington University, said working excessive amounts of overtime can lead to burnout in any industry, including for transit workers. Gold specialized in research about burnout among health care workers during the shortage during the COVID-19 pandemic and said working excessive hours has proven to have negative effects on a worker's reflexes and fine motor skills. "Burnout can lead to a disconnect from the work they're doing," Gold said. "The three symptoms of burnout are emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and a reduced sense of personal accomplishment." The workforce remains scarce in 2023. Bi-State slashed the number of full-time bus driver slots in its 2024 budget by 21%, dropping from 811 to 635, and cut the number of maintenance jobs by 19. In an attempt to recruit more prospective employees, the BiState board recently signed a contract with Local 788, which approved a 3% increase in the drivers and mechanics' salaries for each of the next two fiscal years, plus a $7,000 signing bonus. Still, the workforce has not shown signs of growth. "We are just treading water, folks," Roach said at a recent BiState board committee meeting. "We are having stronger efforts (at recruitment), but our base numbers are still not on that recovery trajectory." Josh Renaud of the Post-Dispatch contributed to this report. EQS-Ad-hoc: Villeroy & Boch AG / Key word(s): Mergers & Acquisitions Villeroy & Boch AG: Villeroy & Boch acquires Ideal Standard Group 18-Sep-2023 / 07:59 CET/CEST Disclosure of an inside information acc. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Villeroy & Boch acquires Ideal Standard Group Mettlach, 18 September 2023. Villeroy & Boch has today signed binding agreements to acquire all of the opeRating companies in the Ideal Standard Group. The Ideal Standard shares are being sold by funds under the management of Anchorage Capital Group and CVC Credit. All group operating companies are covered by the transaction, including business activities in the Middle East and Africa previously operated by the Ideal Standard Group in a joint venture with Roots Group Arabia. Shareholder loans amounting to no more than approximately 93 million will be carried forward, which significantly reduces Ideal Standard Groups gearing. Ideal Standard is a multinational supplier of bathroom products. The company employs more than 7000 people worldwide and operates 11 production sites in Europe and the Middle East. In 2022, Ideal Standard registered sales of around 737.2 million, with adjusted EBITDA of around 73.7 million. The two companies are a perfect fit given their regional presence, sales strategies and product and brand portfolios, laying the foundations for a stronger competitive position and additional growth. In an industry that has global growth potential, the integrated company will join Europes largest manufacturers of bathroom products in terms of sales. The total acquisition price is based on a company valuation of approximately 600 million. Villeroy & Boch is financing the transaction from its own liquid funds and with borrowing of 250 million. Completion of the transaction is subject to the usual conditions and regulatory checks, in particular merger approval, and redemption of the 325,000,000 bond issued by the seller Ideal Standard International S.A., Luxembourg. The transaction is expected to be concluded in early 2024. Investor relations contact Susanne Reiter Head of Corporate Treasury and Investor Relations Tel.: +49 (0) 68 64 81 12 27 Email: reiter.susanne@villeroy-boch.com Media contact Anabell Westrich Corporate Communications Tel.: +49 (0) 68 64 81 13 38 Email: westrich.anabell@villeroy-boch.com End of Inside Information 18-Sep-2023 CET/CEST The EQS Distribution Services include Regulatory Announcements, Financial/Corporate News and Press Releases. Archive at www.eqs-news.com Lead author Katherine Richardson, professor in biological oceanography and leader of the Sustainability Science Centre at the University of Copenhagen explains further: We can think of Earth as a human body, and the planetary boundaries as blood pressure. Over 120/80 does not indicate a certain heart attack but it does raise the risk and, therefore, we work to reduce blood pressure. The boundary for ozone depletion was exceeded in the 1990s but thanks to global initiatives, catalyzed by the Montreal Protocol, this boundary is no longer transgressed. Aerosols, novel entities and freshwater New scientific evidence now enables the team to quantify the boundary of atmospheric aerosol loading. This boundary is not transgressed yet, but rising pressures are evident in large regions where air particle pollution impacts monsoon systems. The novel entities boundary has now been quantified, and the assessment confirms that it is transgressed. It includes the introduction and accumulation of all novel chemical compounds created by humans, such as microplastics, pesticides and nuclear waste. Half of Korean households will consist of elderly people by 2015, Statistics Korea said in a revised projection Tuesday. The country already began a natural population decline two years ago, and the number of smaller and smaller households will peak at 23.87 million in 2039 before it also shrinks. By 2050 it will have dwindled 4.3 percent to 22.85 million. And if the average number of people per household stood at 2.37 in 2020, this will fall to 1.91 by 2050. At present one in five households is headed by breadwinners over 65, but that will rise to one in two over the next three decades. The number of single and two-person households will increase, while larger families living under one roof will dwindle. As of 2020, 31.2 percent of households in Korea were singles. The Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 had several negative effects on the Russian economy. One of the less obvious ones is a labor shortage. As Russia mobilized more and more young men, it deprived many manufacturing or maintenance facilities of key staff. Military-age men who had manufacturing or equipment maintenance skills were forced into the military, even though their employers warned that this would disrupt production if items needed by the military. Such exemptions were granted during World War II, but now the government decided that additional soldiers were more important than production of weapons and military equipment. What the government did not take into account was that, since the war began, nearly a million military age Russians have left the country. This continued even after the government outlawed the migration of military age men from Russia. Corruption in the government and military made it possible for military age men to get out of Russia. The government was told by employers that unless the government took action on the problems, production of key military items would continue to decline. Sanctions led to the loss of key components normally imported from Western suppliers. It took nearly a year for Russia to line up alternative suppliers as well as smuggling routes to get banned items to Russian factories or existing equipment like armored vehicles, warplanes and warships. There was little success in dealing with the labor shortage. Ukraine has identified Russian plants that produced key electronic components and recently began attacking them with armed UAVs, severely disrupting or halting production of key electronic components. Now Russia has to devote air defense systems to many of these plants. This is what the Ukrainians did for defense manufacturing plants after the war began. That led Russia to concentrate on urban areas and infrastructure targets like power plants and water distribution facilities. The sanctions plus Ukrainian attacks have reduced the number of land-attack missiles Russia can produce and use against the Ukrainian military. That led to Russia shifting its missile attacks to less well prepared and defended civilian targets. Russian plans to increase production of tanks, other armored vehicles and combat aircraft could not be met. Armored vehicles production was less than half what was needed and production of military and civilian jet aircraft were reduced even further. Aircraft require even more imports of high-tech items, some of them bulky, closely monitored and difficult to smuggle in. NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Suncor Energy We broke new ground when we first began publicly reporting our sustainability performance in the mid-1990s. Twenty-eight years later, our Report on Sustainability and its companion publication, the Climate Report, continue the practice of disclosing our progress in more than a dozen areas of environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance. Read more on our ESG progress in our reports here. We're committed to preserving and promoting biodiversity in all areas where we work. This includes conserving habitat and reclaiming the landscape we've disturbed. Our Approach Throughout the life cycle of our projects, we seek to avoid, minimize, restore and/or offset impacts to biodiversity from our operations. We do this by: " incorporating the principles of the mitigation hierarchy, integrated land use and management planning processes into project design, construction, operation, reclamation and closure " mapping our disturbance footprint and using monitoring tools such as wildlife sweeps to understand and ensure our development activities avoid sensitive environmental areas and wildlife potentially affected by our activities " minimizing disturbances to the greatest extent possible while considering multiple factors, including safety, operations and the environment "employing mitigations such as wildlife crossings, low-impact seismic, waste management procedures and managing human-wildlife interaction to reduce conflicts " measuring and reporting our performance against the Mining Association of Canada's Towards Sustainable Mining Biodiversity Protocol " engaging with local Indigenous communities " working internally, with industry peers and with multi-stakeholder organizations to monitor, conserve, restore and reclaim habitat for birds, mammals, fish and other species, including species at risk such as caribou Biodiversity monitoring and evaluation We monitor biodiversity in and around our operations and reclaimed sites in accordance with our regulatory commitments and aligned with broader regional initiatives such as the Canada-Alberta Oil Sands Monitoring (OSM) Program. Reclaimed terrestrial, wetland and aquatic areas are monitored according to site-specific reclamation monitoring plans that assess the components of biodiversity while vegetation regrows and ecosystems develop over time. This monitoring allows us to collect soil, vegetation, wildlife use and water quality information to support reclamation certificate applications once it's determined requirements have been met. We further evaluate biodiversity across our sites through wildlife monitoring. This is conducted in accordance with approved site-level wildlife mitigation plans that include bird deterrents at ponds; the use of wildlife crossings over above-ground pipelines; and strategies to manage human wildlife interactions. Approximately 50% of Suncor's oil sands lease areas in northern Alberta are within or near the range boundaries of the caribou, which is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. These leases are also entirely within the geographic range of little brown bats and are located along the migratory route of whooping cranes. Both species are listed as endangered. Through remote cameras, we are able to monitor wildlife both in reclaimed areas and in proximity to our oil sands operating sites. Notable species observed using reclaimed habitat include the Canadian toad, Canada warbler and olive-sided flycatcher. In collaboration with our industry peers, stakeholders and regulatory agencies, we work with organizations such as the Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute, the OSM Program and Canada's Oil Sands Innovation Alliance (COSIA) to: " mitigate and monitor the impacts of our operations, such as waterfowl landings on our tailings facilities " understand and reduce the cumulative effects of oil sands development " address regional biodiversity risk. Caribou recovery and conservation Complex combinations of natural- and human-caused factors in the oil sands region have created landscape changes and indirectly increased predation, resulting in declining caribou populations. We recognize that we must contribute to caribou recovery and conservation while mitigating our impacts on the environment. We are a member of COSIA's Regional Industry Caribou Collaboration joint industry project. The project works with academics, the Government of Alberta and the Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute Caribou Monitoring Unit to co-ordinate restoration in priority areas, find new ways to improve biodiversity understanding, and restore habitat throughout northeast Alberta. These efforts all play a role in caribou recovery. Land conservation We value multi-stakeholder approaches to address industry impacts on the environment. We have partnered with the Alberta Conservation Association for nearly 20 years through the Boreal Habitat Conservation Initiative to help secure more than 4,000 hectares of ecologically sensitive land across 43 different conservation sites in Alberta. As voluntary offsets, these areas of intact boreal forest and wetlands have served to preserve biodiversity by ensuring the components of the larger boreal forest ecosystem have remained undisturbed. Read more about our commitment to preserving and promoting biodiversity here. Suncor employees installing a wildlife monitoring camera at the MacKay River site. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Suncor Energy on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Suncor Energy Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/suncor-energy Email: [email protected] SOURCE: Suncor Energy View source version on accesswire.com: SAN DIEGO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / General Atomics announced today that it has acquired EO Vista, LLC, a leader in the development of advanced space-based and airborne electro-optical payloads, based in Acton, MA. Its business will be integrated into the General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) group. General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems Logo "EO Vista has a proven track record of rapid innovation that set new standards for performance and affordability in electro-optical payload designs," said Scott Forney, president of GA-EMS. "We look forward to bringing EO Vista's unique capabilities on board as we continue to expand our weather and science programs and our growing portfolio of sensor system payload designs to support a wide range of customer requirements, including Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance missions." EO Vista is currently providing the advanced Electro-Optical Infrared (EO/IR) weather sensor payload to GA-EMS under their contract with the U.S. Space Force, Space Systems Command, to deliver an EO/IR Weather System (EWS) satellite to support the transition from the Defense Meteorological Support Program (DMSP) on-orbit systems to a new generation of affordable, high performance, small weather satellites. "The EO Vista team is excited to join General Atomics, a company whose commitment to delivering innovative solutions in support of the national interest strongly aligns with our legacy," said Dr. Steven Wein, president of EO Vista. Founded in 2013, EO Vista is an advanced technology company specializing in the development and delivery of next-generation electro-optical sensor systems. The EO Vista team has a depth of experience in deploying some of the nation's highest-performing surveillance and sensing assets and offers expertise in rapid innovation, development, and delivery of visible and infrared sensor systems. Proskauer Rose LLP acted as legal advisor, Greenberg Traurig, LLP as government compliance advisor and Jefferies LLC as exclusive financial advisor to EO Vista, LLC. About General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) Group is a global leader in the research, design, and manufacture of first-of-a-kind electromagnetic and electric power generation systems. GA-EMS' history of research, development, and technology innovation has led to an expanding portfolio of specialized products and integrated system solutions supporting aviation, space systems and satellites, missile defense, power and energy, and processing and monitoring applications for critical defense, industrial, and commercial customers worldwide. For further information, visit www.ga.com/ems. Contact Information General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems Media Relations [email protected] 8589646989 SOURCE: General Atomics View source version on accesswire.com: BOSTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Inertia Resources, the fastest-growing and largest minority-owned energy consulting firm in the country, continues to expand its footprint in US energy markets while helping companies reduce their carbon footprint with new programs and renewable energy solutions. Launched in April 2018 in Boston, Massachusetts, Inertia Resources was formed as a licensed premium broker of electric power and natural gas. Since its inception, the company has grown faster than any US broker, successfully registering over 4,000 clients with over 20,000 meter locations. Today, Inertia Resources has evolved into a nationally recognized energy broker, leading the way in commercial energy broker services, commodity supply management services, cutting-edge billing technology, renewable energy solutions, and EV charging technology, with 55 brokers across the country and clients in 22 states. Inertia Resources is one of the only premium brokers of electricity in the country for some of the largest energy companies in the world. Last year alone, Inertia saved companies over $100M in energy costs. 'We've had tremendous growth and success helping businesses across the country realize significant energy cost savings over the past five years," said Demorian Linton, Principal Owner of Inertia Resources. "Companies gravitate towards us because we can provide some of the lowest rates in the market, but we also educate our customers about market trends, trajectories, and strategies for safeguarding their interests, along with providing solutions to fully take advantage of the environmental and economic benefits of renewable energy. " Inertia Resources has been building a diverse range of eco-friendly electricity solutions for businesses that harness energy from existing renewable sources, such as wind, solar, hydroelectric, and geothermal power. The company has been encouraging corporate clients to "Fully Go Green" to recognize the benefits of renewable energy, including cheaper energy bills, lower carbon emissions, positive ESG outcomes, and diversification of the energy supply, while reducing their carbon footprint and dependence on imported fuels. Cambridge Trust bank, a 128-year-old financial institution, went 100% Green with Inertia's renewable solutions and is now reporting bottom-line advantages and simultaneously creating more green energy across the country. Inertia Resources is also launching a new "Inertia Plus+" program created to help clients reach their sustainability goals by vetting vendors and matching companies with the right partner for solar development, sustainability, EV Charging, and battery storage options. Inertia Resources, with its forward-thinking approach, is not only propelling businesses toward a greener, more sustainable future, it is changing the dynamic for the industry with a unique business model that maintains a physical presence everywhere they do business with onsite agents who sit down and meet with each client they represent at any time. Those initiatives, along with over 50 combined years of energy sector and deregulation experience, have Inertia Resources well poised for continued growth among the nation's top-performing energy brokers. For more information, visit https://inertiaresourcesinc.com. Contact Information Sherrie Handrinos [email protected] 734-341-6859 SOURCE: Inertia Resources View source version on accesswire.com: Announced today at the CGI 2023 Meeting; joint initiative between President Bill Clinton and entrepreneur and businessman Ziv Aviram will support efforts to combat the climate crisis NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / In a major step towards combating the escalating climate crisis, Israeli entrepreneur and businessman Ziv Aviram announced the launch of EcoBridge at the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) 2023 Meeting today in New York. EcoBridge will be an innovative global investment fund with a focus on technology and innovation, aimed at bridging the gap between today's climate challenges and the transformative technology companies that hold the promise of a more sustainable tomorrow. EcoBridge is creating an Impact Advisory Board to gain the insight of its members and to help the fund with respect to its analysis of climate sustainability. President Bill Clinton will serve as chair of the Impact Advisory Board, advising EcoBridge on climate impact across different political, economic and government environments. The Impact Advisory Board will be supported by the Clinton Foundation, to align EcoBridge's investment focus with the educational and climate impact goals of the Foundation. The Mission of EcoBridge is to serve as the bridge between the entrepreneurial community and the business sector in addressing the climate crisis and the potential of technologies being developed worldwide. EcoBridge will seek to connect geographies and visions-linking the urgent climate needs of the present with the potentially boundless possibilities that technology affords for the future. "The intersection of innovation and climate action is where true transformation occurs. EcoBridge is a catalyst for change," said Ziv Aviram, Co-founder & Chairman of EcoBridge. "We're not just investing in technologies; we're investing in a better world. Our choices today will shape the legacy we leave for generations to come." EcoBridge is a global Climate Tech Investment Fund that will invest in companies that promise to bridge the gap between present climate challenges and a cleaner, more sustainable future. EcoBridge is led by its co-founders: Ziv Aviram, Itai Lemberger, and Robert Citrone. In a landscape where the climate crisis looms large, EcoBridge's focus is unwaveringly centered on technology and innovation to shape a future that is both sustainable and resilient, setting it apart from traditional climate funds. "Of the many challenges we face, there is perhaps none which requires our collective action as urgently as climate change," said President Clinton. "We know that when we work together, we can move the needle on this issue very quickly - and that there are passionate entrepreneurs and innovators all around the world already working to both advance proven climate solutions and pioneer new ones. This exciting new climate tech fund has the potential to unlock revolutionary solutions to this existential challenge." Full press release - attached to the mail + image and video attached in the link- https://we.tl/t-xCvquevRlO Website: https://ecobridgecapital.com/ Contact Information Michal Gal +972-509420985 Imbar Sensura +972-547593140 Related Files EcoBridge Press Release.docx SOURCE: EcoBridge View source version on accesswire.com: VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Relevant Gold Corp. (TSXV:RGC)(OTCQB: RGCCF) ("Relevant Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the Company's common shares have been approved for listing on the OTCQB Venture Market (the "OTCQB") and will commence trading under the symbol "RGCCF" at the market open today. The Company has also received Depository Trust Company ("DTC") eligibility making the Company's shares more accessible to institutional and retail investors in the United States. "This marks a key milestone for Relevant Gold, broadening our capital markets exposure and fostering the growing interest from US investors who seek exposure to the tremendous exploration potential Wyoming has to offer," said Relevant Gold CEO Rob Bergmann. The OTCQB Venture Market is for entrepreneurial and development-stage U.S. and international companies. To be eligible, companies must be current in their reporting and undergo an annual verification and management certification process. Investors can find current financial disclosures and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the Company on www.otcmarkets.com. The Shares will continue to trade on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV) under the symbol RGC. About Relevant Gold Corp. Relevant Gold Corp. is a North American gold exploration company focused on the acquisition, exploration, discovery, and development of district-scale gold projects in the state of Wyoming - one of the most mining-friendly jurisdictions in the United States and globally. Founded by experienced exploration geologists, Relevant Gold is managed by a highly respected team with a proven record of significant value creation for shareholders. On behalf of Relevant Gold Corp., Rob Bergmann, Chief Executive Officer More information Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. For further information about Relevant Gold Corp. or this news release, please visit our website at www.relevantgoldcorp.com or contact Rob Bergmann, President and CEO, or Kristopher Jensen, Manager of Investor Relations, at 763-760-4886 or by email at [email protected]. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains certain statements that constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements relate to future events of Relevant Gold Corp. ("Relevant" or "Relevant Gold" or "the Company"). Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "forecast", "may", "will", "project", "predict", "potential", "targeting", "intend", "could", "might", "should", "believe", "outlook" and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such risks include, among others, the inherent risk of the mining industry; adverse economic and market developments; the risk that the Company will not be successful in completing additional acquisitions; risks relating to the estimation of mineral resources; the possibility that the Company's estimated burn rate may be higher than anticipated; risks of unexpected cost increases; risks of labour shortages; risks relating to exploration and development activities; risks relating to future prices of mineral resources; risks related to work site accidents, risks related to geological uncertainties and variations; risks related to government and community support of the company's projects; risks related to global pandemics and other risks related to the mining industry. The Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forwardalooking information should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release. The Company does not intend and does not assume any obligation, to update any forwardalooking information except as required by law. The scientific and technical contents of this release have been approved by Mr. Brian C. Lentz, CPG #11999, Chief Exploration Officer of the Company, who is a "Qualified Person" as defined by Canadian National Instrument 43-101 (Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects). Mr. Lentz is not independent of the Company. SOURCE: Relevant Gold Corp. View source version on accesswire.com: VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Saville Resources Inc. (TSXv:SRE)(FSE:S0J) (the "Company" or "Saville") wishes to announce changes to its Board of Directors. Mr. Charn Deol has resigned as a director of the Company, effective immediately. The Company would like to express its sincere gratitude to Mr. Deol for his invaluable contributions and dedicated service during his tenure. His insights and leadership have been instrumental in guiding the Company through various strategic decisions. Additionally, Saville is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Kevin Bottomley as a new director. Mr. Bottomley brings with him a wealth of experience in the mineral exploration industry and has held various leadership roles in prominent mining companies. His expertise and vision align well with Saville's goals, and the Company looks forward to benefiting from his guidance in the coming years. Mike Hodge, President of Saville Resources Inc., commented, "While we are saddened to see Mr. Deol depart, we are excited to welcome Mr. Bottomley to our team. His vast experience and industry knowledge will undoubtedly be an asset to Saville as we continue our exploration and development endeavors." About Saville Resources Inc. The Company's principal asset is the Niobium Claim Group Property, situated within the central Labrador Trough, Quebec, and currently under Earn-In Agreement from Commerce Resources Corp. for up to a 75% interest. The Property consists of 26 contiguous mineral claims, encompassing an area of approximately 1,223 hectares, and is considered prospective for niobium, tantalum, phosphate, and fluorspar. The Property includes the Miranna Target, where prior boulder sampling in the area has returned 5.9% Nb 2 O 5 and 1,220 ppm Ta 2 O 5 , as well as the Mallard Prospect where drilling has returned wide intercepts of mineralization, including 1.00% Nb 2 O 5 over 17.1 m, within a larger interval of 0.82% Nb2O5 over 42.3 m (EC21-175). On Behalf of the Board of Directors SAVILLE RESOURCES INC. "Mike Hodge" Mike Hodge President Tel: 604.681.1568 Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements, which includes any information about activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future. Forward looking statements in this news release include the extension of the exploration earn-in agreement and that we anticipate Saville will undertake a drilling exploration program on the Niobium Claim group property; that Ashram has the potential to become a long-term supplier to the met-spar and acid-spar markets; and that the Company is positioning to be one of the lowest cost rare earth element producers globally. These forward-looking 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 in the forward-looking information. Risks that could change or prevent these events, activities or developments from coming to fruition include: that Saville may not undertake, or complete, any exploration work on the Niobium Claim group property; that we may not be able to fully finance any additional exploration on the Ashram Project; that even if we are able raise capital, costs for exploration activities may increase such that we may not have sufficient funds to pay for such exploration or processing activities; the timing and content of any future work programs; geological interpretations based on drilling that may change with more detailed information; potential process methods and mineral recoveries assumptions based on limited test work and by comparison to what are considered analogous deposits that, with further test work, may not be comparable; testing of our process may not prove successful or samples derived from the Ashram Project may not yield positive results, and even if such tests are successful or initial sample results are positive, the economic and other outcomes may not be as expected; the availability of labour and equipment to undertake future exploration work and testing activities; geopolitical risks which may result in market and economic instability; and despite the current expected viability of the Ashram Project, conditions changing such that even if metals or minerals are discovered on the Ashram Project, the project may not be commercially viable; The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company assumes no responsibility to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by law. SOURCE: Saville Resources Inc. View source version on accesswire.com: LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Today Air Lease Corporation (NYSE: AL) announced a long-term lease placement for one Airbus A330-200 aircraft with HiSky. Scheduled to deliver to the European carrier in 2023, this A330-200 aircraft joins one A319-100, four A320-200s and two A321-200neo LR aircraft currently on lease to HiSky from ALC. "We are pleased to continue our support of HiSky Europe with the lease of this first widebody aircraft to the airline, said David Beker, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Head of Aircraft Sales & Trading at Air Lease Corporation. After two and a half years of steady and successful growth with their all-ALC narrowbody fleet, HiSky came to us ready to launch widebody operations and ALC is delighted to provide high-quality aircraft that will enable the carrier to realize their commercial objectives." "Over the past two years, we've experienced consistent growth that has brought us to this pivotal momentthe moment when we are prepared to acquire our first widebody aircraft. We've now become the fourth-largest air carrier at Romania's primary airport and the largest operator of Airbus aircraft registered in Romania. Our partnership with ALC has undeniably proven to be a successful one. The aircraft they have provided us have been instrumental in helping HiSky achieve record-breaking passenger levels during this summer season. Having accomplished all the goals we set for ourselves over the years, we're profoundly grateful for the trust and support of our partners as we embark on this exciting new venture, said Iulian Scorpan, CEO of HiSky. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including expected delivery dates. Such statements are based on current expectations and projections about our future results, prospects and opportunities and are not guarantees of future performance. Such statements will not be updated unless required by law. Actual results and performance may differ materially from those expressed or forecasted in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including those discussed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. About Air Lease Corporation (NYSE: AL) Air Lease Corporation is a leading global aircraft leasing company based in Los Angeles, California, that has airline customers throughout the world. ALC and its team of dedicated and experienced professionals are principally engaged in purchasing new commercial aircraft and leasing them to its airline customers worldwide through customized aircraft leasing and financing solutions. The company routinely posts information that may be important to investors in the Investors section of its website at www.airleasecorp.com. Investors and potential investors are encouraged to consult Air Lease Corporations website regularly for important information. The information contained on, or that may be accessed through, ALCs website is not incorporated by reference into, and is not a part of, this press release. About HiSky HiSky is an EASA certified airline that operates in Romania and Moldova from three operational bases: Bucharest, Cluj and Chisinau. HiSky combines charter and scheduled flights and, expects to celebrate, this month, the two million passengers milestone, transported since the inception of operations in March 2021. With a team of enthusiastic and seasoned professionals with hundreds of years of experience in aviation, HiSky currently has a fleet of four Airbus A320s with 180 seats, an Airbus A319 with 144 seats, and two brand new A321neo, with 220 seats each. For any other information about HiSky, please visit www.hisky.aero. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918221513/en/ Investors: Jason Arnold Vice President, Investor Relations Email: [email protected] Media: Laura Woeste Senior Manager, Media and Investor Relations Email: [email protected] Ashley Arnold Senior Manager, Media and Investor Relations Email: [email protected] Source: Air Lease Corporation NACD Directorship 100 Recognizes the Most Influential Corporate Directors and Governance Experts WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Dine Brands Global, Inc. (NYSE: DIN), the parent company of Applebees Neighborhood Grill & Bar, IHOP and Fuzzys Taco Shop restaurants, today announced that Michael C. Hyter has been named one of the most influential leaders in corporate governance by the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) as part of their 2023 NACD Directorship 100, an annual list of leading corporate directors and governance advocates. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918798177/en/ Michael C. Hyter recognized by the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD). (Photo: Business Wire) Honorees will be recognized at the upcoming 2023 Directorship 100 Awards Gala in New York City on December 13, in addition to being featured in NACD Directorship magazines annual list of The Most Influential People in Boardrooms and Corporate Governance. NACD will share honoree profiles with all 23,000 NACD members as well as with partner organizations and other key governance stakeholders. Exceptional leadership and a visionary commitment to our companys missionMichael C. Hyter embodies these qualities, and it is with great pride that we announce his well-deserved recognition as one of the most influential leaders in corporate governance, says Richard Dahl, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Dine Brands Global, Inc. This accolade is a testament to his remarkable contributions and the bright future he continues to help shape for our company. The complete list of the 2023 NACD Directorship 100 is available at https://directorship100.nacdonline.org/honorees/2023. The 2023 NACD Directorship 100 recognizes leading corporate directors and governance advocates in several categories, including attorneys, audit and risk professionals, board advisors, compensation experts, governance advisors, investors, media, policy advisors, recruiters, and regulators and rule makers. Exemplifying board leadership is a top priority for our organization, and this year's peer-nominated Directorship 100 honorees demonstrate their excellence in governance, says NACD president and CEO Peter Gleason. The accomplishments and integrity of this years director honorees are inspiring, and we look forward to celebrating these individuals at our annual gala in New York. An independent selection committee reviews the nominees history of advancing board performance and leading corporate governance practices in accordance with established NACD principles. The principles form a framework that encourages corporate governance excellence in areas that include risk oversight, corporate strategy, compensation, and transparency. To learn more about the 2023 NACD Directorship 100, visit https://directorship100.nacdonline.org/. About Dine Brands Global, Inc. Based in Pasadena, California, Dine Brands Global, Inc. (NYSE: DIN), through its subsidiaries and franchisees, supports and operates restaurants under the Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar, IHOP, and Fuzzys Taco Shop brands. As of June 30, 2023, these three brands consisted of over 3,500 restaurants across 18 international markets. Dine Brands is one of the largest full-service restaurant companies in the world and in 2022 expanded into the Fast Casual segment. For more information on Dine Brands, visit the Companys website located at www.dinebrands.com. About NACD The National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) is the premier membership organization for board directors who want to expand their knowledge, grow their network, and maximize their potential. As the unmatched authority in corporate governance, NACD sets the standards of excellence through its research and community-driven director education, programming, and publications. Directors trust NACD to arm them with the relevant insights to make high-quality decisions on the most pressing and strategic issues facing their businesses today. NACD also prepares leaders to meet tomorrow's biggest challenges. The NACD Directorship Certification is the leading director credential in the United States. It sets a new standard for director education, positions directors to meet boardroom challenges, and includes an ongoing education requirement that prepares directors for what is next. With an ever-expanding community of more than 23,000 members and a nationwide chapter network, our impact is both local and global. NACD members are driven by a common purpose: to be trusted catalysts of economic opportunity and positive changein business and in the communities we serve. PPL-TM View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918798177/en/ Susan Nelson Sr. Vice President, Global Communications Dine Brands Global, Inc. [email protected] Source: Dine Brands Global, Inc. TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- dynaCERT Inc. (TSX: DYA) (OTCQX: DYFSF) (FRA: DMJ) ("dynaCERT" or the "Company") is honoured to announce that is has been invited by the City of Ottawa (Canada) to the Citys Fleet Services Expo to be held on September 20, 2023 at the Swansea Facility located at 2799 Swansea Crescent in Ottawa. Ottawas Fleet Services Expo will feature dynaCERTs HydraGEN Technology, a proprietary Carbon Emissions Reduction Technology that is designed to reduce fuel consumption and reduce carbon emissions in diesel engines used by fleet vehicles deployed throughout Ottawa and the world. The City of Ottawas Fleet Services Expo will prominently feature, for its first time ever, dynaCERTs HydraGEN Technology mounted and fully operational on a Company-Owned Mercedes Sprinter Van used by dynaCERT to service installations on fleet vehicles throughout the Province of Ontario. With its HydraGEN Technology, dynaCERT is helping its clients save money, reduce pollution and decarbonize fleets, while helping build a prosperous net-zero economy for generations to come in Ottawa and beyond. The dynaCERT Fleet Services Expo Team dynaCERTs Fleet Services Expo Team is spearheaded by Ed Cordeiro, Director of Sales, Americas, and co-managed by senior green technology executives, Jamie MacDonald, President of Mobile Emissions Testing Inc. and Chris Persaud, Field Service Technician dynaCERT. For further information and assistance regarding the dynaCERT Fleet Services Expo Team and dynaCERTs HydraGEN Carbon Emission Reduction Technology line of commercial products, please contact: Ed Cordeiro Director of Sales, Americas dynaCERT Inc. 1-647-462-6667 [email protected] Jamie MacDonald President Mobile Emissions Testing Inc. 1-613-229-9533 [email protected] Chris Persaud Field Service Technician dynaCERT Inc. 1-416-766-9691 [email protected] dynaCERTs Participation in the Ottawa Fleet Services Expo dynaCERTs Participation in the Ottawa Fleet Services Expo is seen by the Company to be an important opportunity to feature the Companys line-up of advanced Hydrogen-On-Demand commercially available technology which is designed to reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHGs) caused by diesel engines used in fleets of vehicles. dynaCERT supports local urban government initiatives that create jobs while fighting climate change and driving down costs for users of the Companys HydraGEN Technology. dynaCERT has received the Smart Sustainable Company Rating Seal after a rigorous analysis of prominent adjudicators. This honourable distinction of dynaCERT and its HydraGEN Technology as it applies to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and United Nations Global Compact Principles, has been evaluated as high, the highest global ranking in its category. Jamie MacDonald, President of Mobile Emissions Testing Inc., stated, As Dealer authorized by dynaCERT, Mobile Emissions Testing Inc. has many years of practical experience in the marketing, sales and installations of dynaCERTs HydraGEN Technology, our selected Canadian leading technology designed to reduce costs and carbon emissions in diesel engines. Our expertise in diesel emissions, serving Ottawa and surrounding regions throughout Ontario, combined with our long-standing and close relationship with dynaCERT, provides to commercial and government fleet operators the long standing experience with the confidence of excellence of service and reliable advice in the imperative quest to comply with goals to reduce carbon emissions. Ed Cordeiro, Director of Sales, Americas of dynaCERT, stated, Businesses in Ottawa and in the Province of Ontario are adopting innovative and efficient technologies to help drive down costs and pollution at the same time. In the transportation sector, which accounts for one-quarter of Canadas emissions, the City of Ottawa is continuing to help businesses reduce their emissions, including by hosting the Ottawa Fleet Services Expo. City road vehicles are a key contributor to pollution in Canada. Such initiatives as the Ottawa Fleet Services Expo are a great venue to motivate fleets to adopt cleaner options to build a more environmentally friendly transportation system for urban Canadians. dynaCERTs HydraGEN Technology is designed to reduce pollution on our roads and support a cleaner transportation system that benefits all Canadians. About dynaCERT Inc. dynaCERT Inc. manufactures and distributes Carbon Emission Reduction Technology along with its proprietary HydraLytica Telematics, a means of monitoring fuel consumption and calculating GHG emissions savings designed for the tracking of possible future Carbon Credits for use with internal combustion engines. As part of the growing global hydrogen economy, our patented technology creates hydrogen and oxygen on-demand through a unique electrolysis system and supplies these gases through the air intake to enhance combustion, which has shown to lower carbon emissions and improve fuel efficiency. Our technology is designed for use with many types and sizes of diesel engines used in on-road vehicles, reefer trailers, off-road construction, power generation, mining and forestry equipment. Website: www.dynaCERT.com. READER ADVISORY Except for statements of historical fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. 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 of 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. In particular, forward-looking information in this press release includes, but is not limited to, the City of Ottawa and the Fleet Services Expo, which cannot be independently verified by the Company. 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: uncertainty as to whether our strategies and business plans will yield the expected benefits; availability and cost of capital; the ability to identify and develop and achieve commercial success for new products and technologies; the level of expenditures necessary to maintain and improve the quality of products and services; changes in technology and changes in laws and regulations; the uncertainty of the emerging hydrogen economy; including the hydrogen economy moving at a pace not anticipated; our ability to secure and maintain strategic relationships and distribution agreements; and the other risk factors disclosed under our profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. 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. Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the release. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918124207/en/ On Behalf of the Board Murray James Payne, CEO For more information, please contact: Jim Payne, CEO & President dynaCERT Inc. #101 501 Alliance Avenue Toronto, Ontario M6N 2J1 +1 (416) 766-9691 x 2 jpayne@dynaCERT.com Investor Relations dynaCERT Inc. Nancy Massicotte +1 (416) 766-9691 x 1 nmassicotte@dynaCERT.com Source: dynaCERT Inc. The decision was taken at a meeting of the UN World Heritage Committee in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, under the auspices of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, UNESCO. Jericho is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities on earth, and is in a part of the Israeli-occupied West Bank that is administered by the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority. The listing refers to the Tel es-Sultan archaeological site nearby, which contains ruins dating back to the 9th millennium B.C. A UN conference voted Sunday to list ruins of the ancient West Bank city of Jericho as a World Heritage Site, a decision likely to anger Israel, which controls the territory and does not recognize a Palestinian state. Israel quit UNESCO in 2019, accusing it of being biased against it and of diminishing its connection to the Holy Land. Israel also objected to UNESCO's acceptance of Palestine as a member state in 2011. But Israel remains a party to the World Heritage Convention, and it sent a delegation to the meeting in Riyadh. Israel captured the West Bank, along with Gaza and east Jerusalem, in the 1967 Mideast war. The Palestinians want all three territories for their future state. Israel views the West Bank as the biblical and cultural heartland of the Jewish people. There have been no serious or substantive peace negotiations in over a decade, and Israel is currently led by the most nationalist and religious government in its history, making any move toward Palestinian statehood nearly unimaginable. The modern city of Jericho is a major draw for tourism to the Palestinian territories, both because of its historical sites and proximity to the Dead Sea. In 2021, the Palestinian Authority unveiled major renovations to one of the largest mosaics in the Middle East, in a Jericho palace dating back to the 8th century. FOX News Digital Leads News Brands with Multiplatform Views and Minutes, Posting Monthly and Yearly Growth FOX Business Network Sees Record Month with YouTube Views NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- FOX News Digital finished August marking 30 consecutive months as the top news brand with multiplatform minutes, according to Comscore. FOX News Digital also led news brands with multiplatform views and saw both monthly and yearly growth with multiplatform views, multiplatform minutes and multiplatform unique visitors. FOX News Digital closed out the month reaching 3.2 billion total multiplatform minutes, 1.8 billion total multiplatform views, and 92 million multiplatform unique visitors.* FOX News Digital was also the top news brand with 3.1 average views per visit. Additionally, the FOX News Mobile App reached 6 million unique visitors in August.** FOX News was once again the most engaged brand on social media in the competitive set in August, with 24 million total social interactions, notching the 108th consecutive month FOX News has placed on top, according to Emplifi. FOX News drove 6.3 million interactions on Facebook, 15.2 million Instagram interactions and 2.6 million Twitter interactions. On YouTube, FOX News secured 158.2 million video views, seeing 4% month-over-month growth, according to Shareablee. FOXBusiness.com drove 175 million multiplatform views (+15% versus the year prior), surpassing CNN Business for the 17th consecutive month and Bloomberg.com for the 28th consecutive month. Additionally, the business network delivered 302 million multiplatform minutes and 20.9 million multiplatform unique visitors.*** FOX Business videos on YouTube remained the most viewed among the business news competitive set for the 21st straight month, achieving a record 83.0 million views in August, seeing 41% growth year-over-year, according to Shareablee. AUGUST 2023 FOX NEWS DIGITAL VS. CNN.COM AND NYTIMES.COM Multi-Platform Total Views FOX News Digital 1,832,000,000 (up 20% vs. August 2022; up 6% vs. July 2023) CNN.com 1,363,000,000 (flat vs. August 2022; up 26% vs. July 2023) NYTimes.com 1,325,000,000 (flat vs. August 2022; up 8% vs. July 2023) Multi-Platform Total Minutes FOX News Digital 3,214,000,000 (up 10% vs. August 2022; up 6% vs. July 2023) CNN.com 2,114,000,000 (down 10% vs. August 2022; up 26% vs. July 2023) NYTimes.com 1,373,000,000 (up 3% vs. August 2022; up 6% vs. July 2023) Multi-Platform Unique Visitors FOX News Digital - 92,186,000 (up 19% vs. August 2022; up 11% vs. July 2023) CNN.com 128,245,000 (up 10% vs. August 2022; up 12% vs. July 2023) NYTimes.com 74,512,000 (down 11% vs. August 2022; up 1% vs. July 2023) Prior to December 2021, FOX News Digital was referred to as FOX News Digital Network. FOX News Media operates the FOX News Channel (FNC), FOX Business Network (FBN), FOX News Digital, FOX News Audio, FOX News Books, the direct-to-consumer streaming services FOX Nation and FOX News International and the free ad-supported television service FOX Weather. Currently the number one network in all of cable, FNC has also been the most watched television news channel for more than 21 consecutive years, while FBN is the top business channel on cable. Owned by Fox Corporation, FOX News Media reaches nearly 200 million people each month. *Source: Comscore Media Metrix Multi-Platform, Total Digital Audience, Custom-Defined List including CNN.com, NBCNews.com, ABCNews.com, CBSNews.com, Fox News Digital, WashingtonPost.com, NYTimes.com, NYPost Network, Wall Street Journal Online, Insider Inc., and USAToday.com, August 2023, U.S. **Source: Comscore Media Metrix Multi-Platform, Total Digital Audience, Custom-Defined List including CNN.com, NBCNews.com, ABCNews.com, CBSNews.com, Fox News Digital, WashingtonPost.com, NYTimes.com, NYPost Network, Wall Street Journal Online, Insider Inc., and USAToday.com, August 2023, U.S. & Comscore Mobile Metrix, Mobile App Only, [FOX News Mobile App and CNN Mobile App], August 2023, U.S. ***Source: Comscore Media Metrix Multi-Platform, Total Digital Audience, Custom-Defined List including FoxBusiness.com, Bloomberg.com, CNBC.com, CNN Business, Entrepreneur.com, Forbes.com, HuffPost Business, MarketWatch, Motley Fool, MSN Money, TheStreet.com, USA TODAY Money, WSJ Online, Yahoo! Finance, August 2023, U.S. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918375279/en/ FOX News Digital Contact Connor Smith: 212.301.3879 or [email protected] Source: FOX News Digital The TUCCI By GreenPan Collection is Now Available at Williams Sonoma Stores and Online at Williams-Sonoma.com SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Williams Sonoma, a portfolio brand of Williams-Sonoma, Inc. (NYSE: WSM), the worlds largest digital-first, design-led and sustainable home retailer, announced today the launch of a new and exclusive cookware collection with GreenPan and Stanley Tucci. The TUCCI By GreenPan Cookware Collection celebrates Italian craftsmanship, utilizes GreenPans most advanced ceramic nonstick coating and will be sold exclusively at Williams Sonoma. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918559851/en/ Stanley Tucci launches new cookware line TUCCI By GreenPan sold exclusively at Williams Sonoma (Photo: Williams Sonoma) Food fanatic and cookbook author Stanley Tucci was inspired by his Italian-American family and the time spent together in the kitchen when creating his new cookware collection. Tucci teamed up with GreenPan to create a high-performing cookware that embraces a modern design intended to perfectly prepare a dish but also stylish enough to be served on the table. This cookware combines a contemporary sensibility with todays technology, so its both beautiful and highly functional, said actor, filmmaker and cookbook author Stanley Tucci. We are passionate about bringing our customers best-in-class products, and its incredibly exciting when we get to do that in partnership with someone they love like Stanley and a brand they are loyal to like GreenPan, said Williams Sonoma President, Felix Carbullido. Each piece of the TUCCI By GreenPan Collection is handcrafted in Italy to be induction-compatible, has a scratch-resistant exterior, and has customized handles that ensure comfort and control. The collections interior is made of ultra-durable ceramic nonstick interiors. The ceramic nonstick pieces are crafted of hard-anodized aluminum with ultra-durable ceramic nonstick interiors, while the stainless-steel pieces are crafted of three-ply stainless steel. Williams Sonoma is such an important retail partner for us, and we are thrilled to collaborate with them on this incredible launch. The partnership between GreenPan, Stanley Tucci, and Williams Sonoma is rooted in passion for cooking and commitment to innovation, said Chief Executive Officer of GreenPan USA, Jacob Maurer. The TUCCI By GreenPan collection consists of over 35 products with most items coming in three iconic colors: Carrara White, Venetian Teal, and Milano Black. Highlights from the colorful collection of ceramic cookware include: GreenPan Stanley Tucci Collection Ceramic Nonstick Fry Pan - $99.95-$179.95 GreenPan Stanley Tucci Collection Ceramic Nonstick Dutch Oven 6.5QT - $299.95 GreenPan Stanley Tucci Collection Ceramic Nonstick 6.5qt Essential Stanley Pan - $199.95 GreenPan Stanley Tucci Collection Ceramic Nonstick Saucepans - $149.95-$179.95 GreenPan Stanley Tucci Collection Ceramic Nonstick Cookware Sets - $179.95-$699.95 Several pieces from the collection are also available in a stainless-steel finish: GreenPan Stanley Tucci Collection Stainless-Steel Ceramic Nonstick Fry Pans - $199.95-$229.95 GreenPan Stanley Tucci Collection Stainless-Steel Saucepans - $169.95-$229.95 GreenPan Stanley Tucci Collection Stainless-Steel Cookware Sets - $199.95-$799.95 For more information the TUCCI By GreenPan Cookware Collection, or to purchase products from the collection, please visit: www.williams-sonoma.com/tucci. ABOUT WILLIAMS SONOMA Since its founding by Chuck Williams in 1956, the Williams Sonoma brand has been bringing people together around food. A member of Williams-Sonoma, Inc. (NYSE: WSM) portfolio of brands, Williams Sonoma is a leading specialty retailer of high-quality products for the kitchen and home, providing world-class service and an engaging customer experience. Products include cookware, cooks tools, cutlery, electrics, bakeware, food, tabletop and bar, outdoor, cookbooks, as well as furniture, lighting and decorative accessories. Each store offers cooking classes and tastings conducted by expert culinary staff. A comprehensive gift registry program for weddings and other special events is available in stores and online. On williams-sonoma.com and the Williams Sonoma blog, Taste, customers can find recipes, tips, and techniques that help them create delicious meals. Williams Sonoma can also be found on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, and YouTube. Williams Sonoma is also part of The Key Rewards, a free-to-join loyalty program that offers members exclusive benefits across the Williams-Sonoma, Inc. family of brands. ABOUT GREENPAN Founded in 2007, GreenPan introduced the world to ceramic nonstick cookware. A Belgian cookware and small electrics brand with an international reputation, GreenPans signature Thermolon coating is manufactured without the use of PFAS, PFOA or any of the other toxic chemicals used to make traditional nonstick pans and nonstick small appliances. For more information, visit their website: www.greenpan.us/. WSM-PR View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918559851/en/ Kendall Coleman Williams Sonoma [email protected] 415-616-7926 Source: Williams-Sonoma, Inc. Funding fuels additional Dragos expansion as demand accelerates to protect operational technology in critical and industrial infrastructure HANOVER, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Dragos, Inc., the global leader in cybersecurity for industrial controls systems (ICS)/operational technology (OT) environments, today announced a $74 million Series D extension, led by strategic operating and investing firm WestCap. The equity investment is an extension of Dragoss $200 million Series D that took place in October 2021, led by Koch Disruptive Technologies, an investment arm of Koch Industries, with funds and accounts managed by BlackRock, a leading global asset manager. This brings the Series D round to $274 million, with total funds raised to date now approximately $440 million. According to analyst firm Frost & Sullivan, The global industrial cybersecurity market will likely hit $10.2 billion by 2025 from $3.3 billion in 2020, registering exponential growth at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25.3%.1 The funding will support additional go-to-market initiatives to meet growing demand. It will also fund accelerated expansion in key growth markets including North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific; and across diverse industries including electric, oil & gas, chemical, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, food and beverage, water, transportation, mining, and building automation. The industrial threat landscape irreversibly changed this past year, and critical industries are seeking solutions that give them visibility into their OT networks and defend against the threats making headlines and driving government action, said Robert M. Lee, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Dragos, Inc. Demand for OT cybersecurity continues to be strong and this extension allows us to scale. Whats really exciting is that WestCap, as lead investor, is a partner in our success and shares our commitment to build the collective defense to protect industrial organizations and the communities they serve. The extension round arrives as governments and infrastructure providers globally are recognizing the importance of industrial cybersecurity and demanding more attention to their ICS/OT environments. This shift is demonstrated in the release of the Biden administrations National Cybersecurity Strategy this year, and the March 23 hearing before the United States Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, during which Lee testified on the cybersecurity risks to energy infrastructure. Internationally, government initiatives across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific are having a similar impact. As cyberattacks escalate in frequency and complexity, it is critical that we support the scaling of leading companies like Dragos whose mission is to 'safeguard civilization,'" said Laurence A. Tosi, Founder and Managing Partner at WestCap. Dragos is the category leader in protecting critical infrastructure with a holistic cybersecurity approach in the Operational Technology segment led by a respected leadership team with a proven track record for investigating the most high-profile cybercrimes in recent history and building innovative technology to isolate and combat those threats. The Series D funding extension will bolster Dragoss ability to make ICS/OT cybersecurity more accessible around the world. This year, Dragos has already expanded across Western Europe and the DACH region, building on its established presence in the UK. This summer, Dragos entered into an agreement with Macnica to provide Dragoss cybersecurity solutions in Japan, signifying Dragoss expansion in Asia-Pacific beyond its presence in Australia and New Zealand. In August, the company signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) to support the countrys efforts to defend against cyber-attacks to its operational technology and critical infrastructure. Dragos also continued to grow its footprint in the Middle East through its established presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates. Dragos also received top industry recognition this year. In August, the Dragos Platform received the SC Award for Best Industrial Security Solution for its ability to help organizations identify their OT assets, manage vulnerabilities, and detect and respond to threats that target industrial control systems. Dragos also received the SC Award for Most Promising Unicorn. In June, Dragos was named Best Incident Response Solution by SC Awards Europe. This years awards followed Lees recognition in 2022 as SCs Security Executive of the Year, and as an EY Entrepreneur of the Year for the Mid-Atlantic region. 1Frost & Sullivan, Increasing Sophistication of Attacks and Evolving Threat Landscape Powering Global Industrial Cybersecurity, Outlook 2022, Sankara Narayanan Venkataramani, April, 2022. About Dragos, Inc. Dragos has a global mission to safeguard civilization from those trying to disrupt the industrial infrastructure we depend on every day. The Dragos Platform offers the most effective industrial cybersecurity technology, giving customers visibility into their ICS/OT assets, vulnerabilities, threats, and response actions. The strength behind the Dragos Platform comes from our ability to codify Dragoss industry-leading OT threat intelligence, and insights from the Dragos services team, into the software. Our community-focused approach gives you access to the largest array of industrial organizations participating in collective defense, with the broadest visibility available. Our solutions protect organizations across a range of industries, including electric, oil & gas, manufacturing, building automation systems, chemical, government, water, food & beverage, mining, transportation, and pharmaceutical. Dragos is privately held and headquartered in the Washington, DC area with regional presence around the world, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and the Middle East. For more information, visit dragos.com. About WestCap WestCap is a strategic operating and investing firm that partners with visionary leaders to build generational businesses. Our team is comprised of seasoned industry leaders and entrepreneurs who guide companies through the most pivotal stages of growth. Some of our notable investments include Airbnb, StubHub, Ipreo, Addepar, Hopper, iCapital, SIMON, GoodLeap and NYDIG. The firm has offices in New York, San Francisco and London. For more information, visit www.WestCap.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918694336/en/ Kesselring Communications for Dragos Leslie Kesselring, 503-358-1012 [email protected] Source: Dragos, Inc. LAKE FOREST, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Packaging Corporation of America (NYSE: PKG) will hold a conference call on Tuesday, October 24, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss third quarter 2023 results. The conference call leader will be Mark Kowlzan. Third quarter earnings results will be released after the market closes on Monday, October 23, 2023. To access the conference call, you may pre-register for the conference by navigating to https://dpregister.com/sreg/10173953/f56283c8a6. Once you have registered, you will receive your dial-in number. When dialing in the day of the call, please ask to join the Packaging Corporation of America earnings call. If you prefer not to pre-register, you may dial in the day of the call using these toll-free numbers: 866-777-2509 (U.S.), 866-605-3852 (Canada) or 412-317-5413 (International) by 8:45 a.m. (Eastern Time). Please ask to join the Packaging Corporation of America earnings call. A replay of the call will also be available from October 24, 2023 until November 7, 2023. To access the recording, please dial toll free 877-344-7529 (U.S.), 855-669-9658 (Canada) or (412) 317-0088 (International). The replay Access Code is: 2565561. This call will also be webcast and accessible at PCAs website at www.packagingcorp.com. Please go to the Investor Relations tab to access the call. PCA is the third largest producer of containerboard products and a leading producer of uncoated freesheet paper in North America. PCA operates eight paper mills and 86 corrugated products plants and related facilities. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918643984/en/ Barbara Sessions Packaging Corporation of America INVESTOR RELATIONS: (877) 454-2509 PCA Web Site: www.packagingcorp.com Source: Packaging Corporation of America NERVIANO, Italy--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- SIMIS Srl (SIMIS), a NMS Group company, is pleased to announce the appointment of Laurent Contaut as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the organization, effective immediately. The appointment of Laurent comes at an exciting time for SIMIS, as the company continues to expand its services and drive innovation in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918090897/en/ Laurent brings a wealth of experience to SIMIS with his profound expertise, seasoned leadership and deep understanding of the evolving needs in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medtech and AI sectors around the globe. Prior to SIMIS, he established a successful track record at various companies (small biotech firms, big pharmaceutical companies, Contract Research Organizations and academic institutions) working globally from locations including Europe, North America and Asia Pacific. Specifically, prior to relocating to Italy, Laurent has lived and worked in France, UK, Switzerland, Canada, Singapore and China, leading teams to deliver high quality results, on time and within budget. All of these make Laurent the ideal candidate to lead SIMIS into its next phase of growth and success. As the newly appointed CEO, Laurent will spearhead SIMIS strategic direction, aiming at transforming the Nerviano Site into a highly efficient contract services and biotech research campus in the field of Life Sciences. He will further position the firm as a trusted partner for pharmaceutical, biotechnology, CRO and CMDO companies, leveraging his accomplishments in strategic operationalization to attract Global firms to our Nerviano Hub. The Hub is designed to provide a collaborative and effective ecosystem to enable companies to operate and ultimately rapidly expand their operations having easy access to all necessary components. SIMIS manages the Nerviano Site which provides shared physical infrastructures, Centralized Services, Administrative Support, Networking / Collaboration and a large community of life science professionals. We are really thrilled to nominate Laurent as the CEO of SIMIS. His proven expertise, strategic acumen, ability to collaborate with professionals across different cultures and deep industry knowledge make him the perfect fit for this role, said Hugues Dolgos, Pharm.D., CEO of the NMS Group and Chairman of SIMIS. I am very excited to arrive at such a perfect time for SIMIS. Our Bio-Park strategically, centrally positioned in the middle of Europe, surrounded with highly renowned universities, easily accessible from all European capitals is a unique concept and a collaborative ecosystem that offers shared services, facilities and resources to multiple entities in the pharmaceutical and biotech industry. We plan to compete with other global life science hubs and become the campus of choice for research and development in the pharma/biotech industry, Laurent commented. About NMS Group NMS Group S.p.A. (NMS Group) is the largest R&D company in Italy committed to the discovery and development of novel oncological therapies and through its three subsidiaries is the only institution able to manage the entire integrated R&D chain: from the first steps of the pre-clinical phase to the packaging of the finished product with more than 400 employees of whom more than half are highly educated individuals dedicated to innovative research, development and manufacturing. NMS Groups three subsidiaries are: NMS S.r.l., focused on discovery and clinical development of new drugs for oncology at Nerviano (Italy) and Boston (US) sites, Accelera S.r.l., one of the few Italian CROs capable of providing support through all phases of drug research and development, and NerPharMa S.r.l., a CDMO owing a wide and cutting edge organizational structure able to manage and handle highly active compounds, and to ensure the full development and production of active principles and finished products. NMS Forward-Looking Statements Some of the statements in this press release may be forward-looking statements or statements of future expectations based on currently available information. Actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected or implied in these forward-looking statements and historical results should not be considered as an indication of future performance. Factors that may cause such a difference include but are not limited to: uncertainties as to the timing, expense, and results of preclinical studies, clinical trials, and regulatory processes; ability to financially support product programs; reliance on third parties for development and manufacturing activities; changes in competitive products or in the standard of care; the risk of early termination of collaboration agreements; These forward-looking statements are based on information available to, and expectations of NMS as of the date of this presentation. NMS disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918090897/en/ Sidney Dung [email protected] Source: NMS Group S.p.A. BOCA RATON, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Terran Orbital Corporation (NYSE: LLAP) (Terran Orbital or the Company), a global leader in satellite-based solutions primarily serving the aerospace and defense industries, today announced that it intends to offer and sell in a public offering, subject to market and other conditions, shares of its common stock (or common stock equivalents in lieu thereof) and warrants to purchase shares of common stock. Each share of common stock (or common stock equivalent in lieu thereof) will be sold with a warrant to purchase the Companys common stock. All of the shares of common stock (or common stock equivalents) and warrants in the offering are to be offered by the Company. The offering is subject to market and other conditions, and there can be no assurance as to whether or when the offering may be completed, or the actual size or terms of the offering. H.C. Wainwright & Co. is acting as the exclusive placement agent for the proposed offering. Terran Orbital expects to use the net proceeds of the proposed offering for general corporate purposes including capital expenditures, working capital, research and development, and general and administrative expenses, and maintenance of the liquidity covenant in the Companys debt documents. The securities described above will be offered by the Company pursuant to a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-271093) that was declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) on April 18, 2023. The offering will be made only by means of a prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus that form a part of the shelf registration statement. A preliminary prospectus supplement related to the offering will be filed with the SEC and may be obtained, when available, on the SECs website, located at www.sec.gov. Copies of the preliminary prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus relating to the offering may also be obtained, when available, from H.C. Wainwright & Co., LLC at 430 Park Avenue, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10022, by phone at (212) 865-5711 or e-mail at [email protected]. Before you invest, you should read the preliminary prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus and the other documents that the Company has filed with the SEC for more complete information about the Company and the proposed offering. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy these securities nor shall there be any offer or sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction. About Terran Orbital Terran Orbital Corporation is a leading manufacturer of satellite products primarily serving the aerospace and defense industries. Terran Orbital provides end-to-end satellite solutions by combining satellite design, production, launch planning, mission operations, and on-orbit support to meet the needs of the most demanding military, civil, and commercial customers. Learn more at www.terranorbital.com. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements for purposes of the federal securities laws. We intend such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by such words as plan, believe, expect, anticipate, intend, outlook, expect may, might, possible, potential, predict, will, should, would and could and other similar words and expressions. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties (many of which are beyond our control), or other assumptions that may cause actual results or performance to be materially different including, but not limited to: the size, timing and consummation of the proposed offering, the satisfaction of the closing conditions of the proposed offering, the use of net proceeds of the proposed offering, local, national and global conditions impacting the capital markets and the market for our securities; the general volatility of the capital markets; our ability to finance our operations, research and development activities and capital expenditures; expectations regarding our strategies and future financial performance, including our future business plans or objectives, anticipated cost, timing and level of deployment of satellites, prospective performance and commercial opportunities and competitors, the timing of obtaining regulatory approvals, retention and expansion of our customer base, product and service offerings, pricing, marketing plans, operating expenses, market trends, revenues, margins, liquidity, cash flows and uses of cash, capital expenditures, and our ability to invest in growth initiatives; the ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and other expectations, and to identify and realize additional opportunities; anticipated timing, cost, financing and development of our satellite manufacturing capabilities; prospective performance and commercial opportunities and competitors; our expansion plans and opportunities; our ability to finance and invest in growth initiatives; geopolitical risk and changes in applicable laws or regulations; the possibility that we may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; the possibility that the COVID-19 pandemic, or another major disease, natural disaster, or threat to the physical security of our facilities or employees disrupts our business; our ability to achieve profitability and meet expectations regarding cash flow from operations and investments; our leverage and our ability to service cash debt payments and comply with debt maintenance covenants, including meeting minimum liquidity and operating profit covenants; our ability to access invested cash or cash equivalents upon failure of any financial institutions we bank with; limited access, or access on unfavorable terms, to equity and debt capital markets and other funding sources that will be needed to fund operations and make investments; litigation and regulatory enforcement, including the diversion of management time and attention and the additional costs and demands on our resources; and the other risks disclosed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) from time to time, including under the heading Risk Factors in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 23, 2023 and the prospectus dated April 28, 2023 related to Post-effective amendment No. 1 to our Registration Statement on Form S-1 on Form S-3, as amended (File No. 333-264447), which was declared effective by the SEC on April 28, 2023. These forward-looking statements are based on managements current expectations, plans, forecasts, assumptions, and beliefs concerning future developments and their potential effects. There can be no assurance that the future developments affecting us will be those that we have anticipated, and we may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in our forward-looking statements, and you should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements. New risk factors and uncertainties may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible to predict all risks. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and we do not assume any obligation to, and we do not intend to, update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918266562/en/ Investor Relations Contact [email protected] 949-202-8476 Public Relations Contact [email protected] 949-508-8484 Source: Terran Orbital Samsung Biologics announced today a new agreement with Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE: BMY) for large-scale manufacturing of a Bristol Myers Squibb commercial antibody cancer drug substance. Bristol Myers Squibb and Samsung Biologics have an existing manufacturing agreement for a commercial antibody cancer drug and have expanded the strategic relationship over time. Under the terms of the new agreement, Samsung Biologics will provide drug substance manufacturing for an antibody cancer drug substance at the company's latest and largest biomanufacturing facility, Plant 4, in Songdo, South Korea. On September 17, 2023, Marc Ferrentino notified the board of directors of Yext, Inc. (NYSE: YEXT) of his intention to step down from his position as President and Chief Operating Officer of the Company effective September 30, 2023. Mr. Ferrentino will be transitioning to a new role as an advisor to the Company effective September 30, 2023. On September 17, 2023, Mr. Ferrentino and the Company entered into an advisory agreement effective October 1, 2023 (the Advisor Agreement) with a term of nine months (the Advisory Period). Pursuant to the Advisor Agreement, Mr. Ferrentino will be entitled to receive continued vesting of restricted stock units through the Advisory Period, subject to his continued service through such time and after which any remaining unvested restricted stock units will be forfeited. In the event of a change in control of the Company during the Advisory Period, any unvested restricted stock units that would have otherwise vested during the Advisory Period would accelerate. In connection with his separation, Mr. Ferrentino will become entitled to receive acceleration of 140,000 outstanding and unvested restricted stock units, and as part of the separation agreement, Mr. Ferrentino agrees that his outstanding stock options will forfeit upon his termination of employment on September 30, 2023. Effective September 30, 2023, Mr. Ferrentino will no longer be a participant in the Companys Change in Control and Severance Policy. Mr. Ferrentinos resignation did not result from any disagreement with the Company concerning any matter relating to its operations, policies, or practices. CRANBURY, N.J., Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Pharmacy Benefit Management Institute (PBMI), the nations leading provider of research and education on drug cost management, is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the 2023 PBMI Annual National Conference, held from September 68, at the prestigious Caribe Royale Orlando resort in Florida. This years conference, boasting over 50 esteemed faculty members and a wide array of engaging sessions encompassing policy, health equity and member outcomes, was a remarkable event, marking the conferences biggest and best installment to date. The 2023 PBMI Annual National Conference sends a powerful message on diversity, health care, equity and equality, said Sampson Davis, MD, FACEP, keynote speaker of this years event. Dr. Davis, cofounder of The Three Doctors Foundation, covered one of health cares most important topics: health equity and the current challenges and opportunities in health care. As its most successful event yet, the conference delivered on its promise to provide attendees with cutting-edge information, best practices and transformative ideas in the pharmacy benefit management and specialty pharmacy sectors. PBMI brought together industry leaders, health care professionals and experts from across the nation for three days of engaging discussions, insights and unparalleled networking opportunities. Additionally, this years conference featured the presentation of the PBMI Excellence Awards, which honored organizations that exhibit fearless innovation, a dedication to enhancing patient care, and efforts to alleviate the economic burden on the health care delivery system. The 2023 honorees are: Quality Health Management: SCAN Clinical Innovation: BeneCard PBF Cost Containment: Xevant Care Management: Vivid Clear Rx To stay up-to-date on PBMIs 2024 event as well as webinars, trending articles and updates for members, click here. To sign up to become a member, visit https://www.pbmi.com/contact About PBMI Since 1995, the Pharmacy Benefit Management Institute (PBMI) has provided valuable research, education and a forum to advance best practices and drive marketplace changes to improve pharmacy benefit and control costs. Through a collaborative environment spanning sectors involved in benefit management, PBMI brings multiple stakeholders together to drive and disseminate these insights. PBMIs suite of member benefits include training courses, exclusive information from Capitol Hill and federal agencies, and discounted rates for event attendance, marketing campaigns and more. Media Contact:Lauren GarafolaMJH Life Sciences[email protected] A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a3bb322b-0b6b-4b94-8fa4-a03e1ec97560 PBMI announces the successful conclusion of the 2023 Annual National Conference The 2023 PBMI Annual National Conference was a resounding success, featuring over 50 renowned experts and discussions on policy, health equity, and member outcomes. Source: Pharmacy Benefit Management Institute BOUYGUES PRESS RELEASE REGARDING COLAS Bouygues announces its intention to submit a squeeze-out offer, with a view to delisting Colas, at a price of 175 per share The functions of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer are to be separated Pascal Grange is appointed non-executive Chairman of Colas Pierre Vanstoflegatte is appointed Chief Executive Officer of Colas SQUEEZE-OUT OFFER, WITH A VIEW TO DELISTING COLAS Following a meeting of the Board of Directors held on 17 September 2023, Bouygues announces its intention to file in the next few days with the French Financial Markets Authority (the AMF ) a public tender offer followed by a squeeze-out for the Colas shares it does not hold at a price of 175 euros per share (together the Offer ). Upon completion of the Offer, Colas will be delisted. This price of 175 euros per Colas share, payable exclusively in cash, gives rise to the following premium levels: 54.2% on the Colas share price at close of business on September 15, 2023 52.2%, 50.1% and 50.4% on the average Colas share price weighted by volumes over the last 60, 120 and 240 trading days respectively prior to the offer announcement. This Offer is part of a simplification of the capital structure of Colas and the Bouygues Group. At the date of this press release, Bouygues held 96.81% of the share capital and 98.04% of the voting rights of Colas1. Colas is listed in compartment A of Euronext Paris (code ISIN FR0000121634). In accordance with applicable regulations, the completion of the Offer will be subject to the AMFs compliance decision (conformite) on the proposed Offer. The draft offer document detailing the timetable will be available in the next few days on the Bouygues website (www.bouygues.com) and the AMF website (www.amf-france.org). Bouygues chose Portzamparc, a subsidiary of the BNP Paribas Group, as presenting bank and guarantor. Darrois Villey Maillot Brochier is acting as legal counsel on the transaction. CHANGES TO THE GOVERNANCE OF COLAS As part of the delisting contemplated by Bouygues, the Board of Directors of Colas, on the recommendation of its Selection and Remuneration Committee, has decided to introduce a separation of the functions of Chairman of the Board of Directors, on the one hand, and Chief Executive Officer, on the other hand, to allow the latter to focus on Colass operations. Frederic Gardes has informed the Board of Directors of Colas that the consequences for him of the contemplated delisting of Colas and of the change in the terms and conditions of the executive management of Colas, did not meet his personal expectations. Under these circumstances, he has tendered his resignation from his position as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and from his mandate as Director. The Board of Directors of Colas acknowledged his resignation. The Board of Directors would like to thank Frederic Gardes for the very important transformation work he has led within the Colas group; it salutes his career within the Group and his action at the head of Colas since his appointment as Chief Executive Officer in 2019. As part of Colas 's new governance structure, its Board of Directors, on the recommendation of the Selection and Remuneration Committee, has proceeded with the appointment, with immediate effect, of: Pascal Grange as non-executive Chairman of the Board of Directors; and as non-executive Chairman of the Board of Directors; and Pierre Vanstoflegatte as Chief Executive Officer. Following the appointment of Pascal Grange as non-executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of Colas, Marie-Luce Godinot becomes Bouygues permanent representative to the Board of Directors and will chair the Audit Committee of Colas. Commenting on the contemplated delisting of Colas and the new governance structure, Bouygues Group Chief Executive Officer, Olivier Roussat, declared: Colas is a company recognized worldwide as a benchmark in its businesses, and it will remain so. The plan to delist Colas demonstrates our intention to simplify operating and reporting processes. The separation of the functions of Chairman, on the one hand, and Chief Executive Officer, on the other hand, is also an opportunity to appoint a Chief Executive Officer and a non-executive Chairman who are highly complementary: Pierre Vanstoflegatte is a high-level operational executive and a recognized expert in the agency business. He will focus on Colas' operational efficiency and development. Pascal Grange will bring to Colas his in-depth knowledge of the Bouygues Group's businesses. Commenting on the departure of Frederic Gardes at the meeting of the Board of Directors, Olivier Roussat stated: I would like to thank Frederic Gardes for the work he has done to transform the company. Together with the management team, he has succeeded in uniting all his employees to achieve new milestones, particularly in terms of internationalization and CSR. He can be proud of what he has achieved over the past 12 years at Colas, and more broadly during his career with the Bouygues Group since 1994. Commenting on the arrival of Pierre Vanstoflegatte, he added: I would like to welcome Pierre Vanstoflegatte to Colas. Pierre is an accomplished professional whom we know well at Bouygues, with a rich career and strong human values. He has everything it takes to succeed. I wish him all the best in his new mission. BIOGRAPHIES Pierre Vanstoflegatte, 55, is a graduate of Ecole Polytechnique and Ecole des Mines de Paris; he held the positions of Chief Operating Officer, then Chairman of Bouygues Energies & Services from 2019 until his combination with Equans earlier this year. Pierre Vanstoflegatte has significantly improved Bouygues Energies & Services performance in recent years, thanks to his extensive experience in the agency business, acquired both in France and internationally within Spie and Schindler. In 2022, he led, in an exemplary performance, the detachment project of Bouygues Energies & Services and its combination with Equans, a company acquired by Bouygues in October 2022. As Chief Executive Officer of Colas, his mission will be to pursue the companys development and improve cross-functionality with other Bouygues Group businesses, in particular Bouygues Construction and Equans. Pascal Grange joined the Bouygues Group in 1986. After a rich experience in the Bouygues Group, he was appointed Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer of Bouygues in October 2019. He has been Chief Operating Officer of Bouygues since February 2021. He has been a member of the Colas Board of Directors since February 18, 2020. Marie-Luce Godinot, is a graduate of Ecole Polytechnique and Ecole Nationale Superieure des Telecommunications. She joined Bouygues Construction in 2001. After several years within the Bouygues Group, she was appointed Deputy Chief Executive Officer in charge of Digital Transformation, Innovation and Sustainable Development at Bouygues Construction, before becoming Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Bouygues Group in charge of Innovation, Sustainable Development and Information Systems. Disclaimer This information has been qualified by Bouygues SA, prior to its release, as inside information within the meaning of the regulations in force (Article 7.1 of EU Regulation 596/2014 of April 16, 2014). Person responsible for notification: Didier Casas, General Secretary. This press release does not constitute an offer to purchase or a solicitation of such an offer in any country, including France. Under French law, the offer can only be made in accordance with the offer documentation, which must contain the full terms and conditions of the offer. The offer documentation must be submitted to the AMF for review, and the offer may not be opened until the AMF has issued a compliance decision. Any decision relating to the offer must be based exclusively on the information contained in the offer documentation. This press release has been prepared for information purposes only. The distribution of this press release, the offer and its acceptance may be subject to specific regulations or restrictions in certain countries. The offer will not be addressed to persons subject to such restrictions, either directly or indirectly, and will not be accepted from any country where the offer would be subject to such restrictions. Accordingly, persons into whose possession this press release comes are required to inform themselves about and to observe any local restrictions that may apply. The Company declines all responsibility for any breach of these restrictions by any person whatsoever. ABOUT BOUYGUES Bouygues is a diversified services group operating in over 80 countries with 200,000 employees all working to make life better every day. Its business activities in construction (Bouygues Construction, Bouygues Immobilier, Colas), energies & services (Equans), media (TF1) and telecoms (Bouygues Telecom) are able to drive growth since they all satisfy constantly changing and essential needs. INVESTORS AND ANALYSTS CONTACT: [email protected] Phone: +33 (0)1 44 20 12 29 PRESS CONTACT: [email protected] Tel. : +33 (0)1 44 20 12 01 BOUYGUES SA 32 avenue Hoche 75378 Paris CEDEX 08 bouygues.com 1 Based on a share capital of 32,654,499 shares representing 64,486,467 theoretical voting rights. Attachment Two cargo ships arrived at one of Ukraine's ports over the weekend, using a temporary Black Sea corridor established by Kyiv following Russia's withdrawal from a wartime agreement designed to ensure safe grain exports from the invaded country's ports. Two Palau-flagged bulk carriers, Aroyat and Resilient Africa, docked Saturday at the seaport of Chornomorsk in the southern Odesa region, according to an online statement by the Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority. The vessels are the first civilian cargo ships to reach one of the Odesa ports since Russia exited the grain deal. Oleksandr Kubrakov, Ukraine's deputy prime minister, said in an online statement Saturday that the two ships will be delivering some 20,000 tons of wheat to countries in Africa and Asia. For months, Ukraine, whose economy is heavily dependent on farming, was able to safely export its grain from Black Sea ports under a deal brokered by the United Nations and Turkey to ensure safe shipments. But Russia withdrew from the deal on July 17, with Kremlin officials arguing their demands for the facilitation of Russian food and fertilizer shipments had not been met. Following the withdrawal, the Russian defense ministry said it would regard any vessels in the Black Sea headed to Ukrainian ports as military targets. Sayre, Pa., Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Guthrie Clinic is proud to announce that its Pulse Center was recognized by Modern Healthcare as one of the Top Innovators for 2023. The profiles of the honorees are featured in the Sept. 18, 2023, issue of MH magazine and online at ModernHealthcare.com/Top-Innovators. The Top Innovators program honors leaders and organizations that are instituting innovation and leading transformative programs that achieve measurable results in improving care and contributing to clinical and financial goals. Dr. Edmund Sabanegh, Guthrie President and CEO said, Were thrilled with this recognition. The investment Guthrie has made in the Pulse Center furthers the organizations transformational vision for providing enhanced patient care, quality and safety. Through innovation such as this, we continue to define tomorrow today. The Guthrie Pulse Center, located within the Guthrie Big Flats Specialty and Rehabilitation Services building in Horseheads, New York, is a first-of-its-kind in the region and offers centralized operational and patient care functions and greater access to clinical expertise, regardless of where the patient is being treated. Terri Couts, Guthrie SVP, Chief Digital Officer said, "Innovation is the bridge between aspiration and achievement, and our virtual command center is a testament to our commitment to excellence in healthcare. With unwavering dedication, we've elevated quality outcomes and patient care, proving that the future of healthcare is in our hands, and it's a future brighter than ever before." Innovation can take many forms, as evidenced by our honorees -both individuals and organizations - in this years class of Top Innovators, said Mary Ellen Podmolik, editor-in-chief of Modern Healthcare. Whether they are making back-room functions more efficient, establishing partnerships across the industry or developing tools to broaden consumers access to care, these winners are producing results and forging a path that others should follow. About Modern HealthcareModern Healthcare is the most trusted business news and information brand in the healthcare industry. Modern Healthcare empowers healthcare leaders and influencers to make timely and informed business decisions. To learn more or subscribe, go to www.modernhealthcare.com/subscriptions About GuthrieThe 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. ### Attachments Kathy Cramer Guthrie 570-887-4415 [email protected] Source: Guthrie Newark, N.J., Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- New Jersey Institute of Technologys rise in national rankings continues, with U.S. News & World Report placing NJIT No. 86 among national universities for 2024 a jump of 11 rungs from 2023. The latest ranking is indicative of a consistent trend over the past four years as NJIT climbed from 118 to 103 to 97 and now 86 and supports the findings of other publications that rate U.S. universities, including Money and The Wall Street Journal, which placed NJIT as the second-highest ranked public institution nationally. In key areas like student social mobility and value, U.S. News also saw improvement. Among national universities, NJIT is now No. 53 in Top Performers on Social Mobility (up 42 places) and No. 82 in Best Value Schools (up 36 places). Add to that its standing as a public national university (No. 43) and a research institution with top 100 undergraduate programs in engineering and computer science and you see a school racing toward its goal of being a premiere polytechnic in the U.S. This national recognition affirms our belief that NJIT provides a holistic education that blends classroom and real-world experiences and primes graduates for valuable, rewarding and impactful careers, NJIT President Teik C. Lim said. We remain focused on that mission every day. This year U.S. News revised its criteria to place greater emphasis on student outcomes, eliminating factors such as the percentage of alumni who donate to their alma maters and the percentage of first-year students who ranked highly in their high school class. In their place are measures of graduation rates, how much graduates earn compared to high school graduates and the median debt among graduates with federal loans, among others. To read the full U.S. News rankings, please visit https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges. About New Jersey Institute of TechnologyNew Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) is the greatest producer of technological talent and knowledge in New Jersey. NJIT is an R1 (most elite) Carnegie Classification research university that drives innovation and economic growth while preparing students to become leaders in the technology-dependent economy of the 21st century. The New York Times college ranking tool rates NJIT No. 1 nationally among all public universities when you prioritize high alumni earnings, economic mobility and academic profile, and The Wall Street Journal rates NJIT No. 19 overall and No. 2 among public universities in the United States. Additionally, NJIT stands among the top 100 universities in the country for alumni mid-career earnings, according to PayScale.com, is ranked No. 35 nationally by The Princeton Review as a Best Value College and is rated among the top 50 public national universities and top 100 overall by U.S. News & World Report. Attachment Deric Raymond New Jersey Institute of Technology 9736427042 [email protected] Source: New Jersey Institute of Technology NEW YORK and TORONTO, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- OMERS Private Equity today announced the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire a majority stake in Knight Commercial (Knight Commercial or the Company). Knight Commercials co-founders, Adam McKelvey and Peter Tredennick, will remain significant shareholders of the Company. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Founded in 2001, Knight Commercial provides mitigation, reconstruction, and roofing services to leading commercial property owners and asset managers. The Company is headquartered in Dallas, Texas with the ability to serve the entire U.S. through 12 strategically-located facilities. OMERS Private Equity identified Knight Commercial as part of its broader investment thesis in the property restoration sector. The investment builds on OMERS Private Equitys deep history of partnering with industry leading companies with world class leadership teams. The proceeds from the OMERS investment will be used to further expand the Companys footprint and support growth through M&A. Knight Commercial Services has a proud history of success in serving commercial real estate clients with restoration, construction and roofing needs across the country, oftentimes in emergency situations, said Adam McKelvey, Chief Executive Officer, Knight Commercial. We are incredibly excited to partner with OMERS Private Equity as we continue to elevate Knight as a global leader within the commercial services sector by honoring our relationships with a comprehensive commitment to excellence. We are thrilled about our partnership with the team at OMERS Private Equity, added Peter Tredennick, President, Knight Commercial. Our culture and vision are perfectly aligned to enable future growth and success at Knight Commercial. This partnership strengthens our position in the market and enhances our ability to provide even greater value to our customers. Adam, Peter and the entire leadership team have done an incredible job of building Knight Commercial into the industry leader it is today, said Eric Haley, Head of North America, OMERS Private Equity. Since the onset of our relationship, we have been impressed by the teams unwavering commitment to its customers and to service excellence. We look forward to partnering with the entire team at Knight Commercial to further accelerate the Companys growth, leveraging the broader network of OMERS people, assets and capital. Knight Commercial brings a wealth of expertise, experience and a strong brand in the commercial restoration industry. This, paired with OMERS track record of supporting businesses across the commercial services sector, makes for a strong partnership that we believe will drive continued strong growth in the business, added Scott Hauser, Managing Director, OMERS Private Equity. The transaction is expected to close in September 2023. Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP acted as legal counsel and Stephens Inc. acted as financial advisor for Knight Commercial. Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP and Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP acted as legal counsel and Harris Williams served as financial advisor for OMERS Private Equity. TD, Citizens, and SMBC provided financing for the transaction. About OMERS Private Equity: OMERS Private Equity manages investments globally on behalf of OMERS, one of Canadas largest defined benefit pension plans, with C$124.2 billion in net assets as of December 31, 2022, including approximately C$23.2 billion in net private equity investment asset exposure. With teams in New York, London, Toronto and Singapore, OMERS Private Equity invests across Industrials, Healthcare, Business Services and Technology, deploying an evergreen capital base to partner with strong management teams and transform good companies into industry leaders around the globe. http://www.omersprivateequity.com About Knight Commercial: Knight Commercial provides restoration, construction, and roofing services to a broad set of commercial customers across industrial, multifamily, office, hospitality, and government end markets. Based in Dallas, Texas, the Company provides services throughout the U.S. with 12 locations today. www.knightcommercial.com A recent study in the PLoS ONE journal found that more than 2,300 individuals with persistent health issues experienced improved well-being and reduced fatigue within the first three months of using medicinal cannabis. The study was centered on the responses obtained from eligible Australian patients who participated in the QUEST Initiative. The participants age spectrum spanned from 18 to 97 years of age, with an average age of 51. Among the participants, 62.8% were women while 37.2% were men. The majority of participants reported experiencing chronic pain (69%), followed by insomnia (23%), anxiety (22%), and a combination of Read More>> About CNW420 CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of two informative articles each business day. Our concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. Articles are released each business day at 4:20 a.m. and 4:20 p.m. Eastern our tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis. To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 844-397-5787 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only) For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer CannabisNewsWire Denver, CO www.CannabisNewsWire.com 303.498.7722 Office [email protected] CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 18, 2023) - RARE EARTH RIDGE CORP. (the "Company" or "Rare Earth Ridge"), is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Deepak Malhotra and Mr. Jake Tiley to the board of directors of the Company. Dr. Deepak Malhotra, PhD, is a world-renowned mineral processing expert with over 50 years of mining industry experience. He holds a PhD, in Mineral Economics and a M.S. in Metallurgical Engineering. He has managed projects in research, process development for new projects, processing plant troubleshooting, plant audits, detailed engineering and overall business management. He has helped commercialize tens of mineral processing plants with capital ranging from $15M to $750M and has performed more than twenty-five audits of mining operations worldwide. He holds four patents and has published over 60 articles and edited several books. Dr. Malhotra is a director of Forte Dynamics, Inc., a mining and consulting firm that brings diverse expertise in mining, processing, metallurgy. Dr. Malhotra has held director positions on several publicly traded companies and currently is director of Eurpacific Metals Inc. (TSXV: EUP). Mr. Jake Tiley has over two decades in global markets, specializing in technical analysis, algorithmic trading, and trading strategy development. He's collaborated with an extensive network of industry experts, focusing on volatility structures and company assessments. His leadership in technology ventures, mining projects, and asset management emphasizes the essential link between technology and finance. Barry Miller, Chief Executive Officer of Rare Earth Ridge, comments, "We are very excited to welcome Dr. Malhotra and Mr. Tiley to our board of directors. Dr. Malhotra's knowledge and expertise with metallurgy will help contribute to assessing options for the Mount Hart project. While Mr. Tiley and his diverse network will showcase Rare Earth Ridge to potential new investors." About Rare Earth Ridge Resources Rare Earth Ridge Resources Corp. is a Canadian junior mining exploration company with its 100% owned Mount Major Hart property located in British Columbia. The Company is focussed on rare earth elements and rare metals, particularly lithium and rubidium. More information can be found at the Company's website at www.rareearthridgeresources.com. ON BEHALF OF RARE EARTH RIDGE RESOURCES CORP. "Barry Miller" President, CEO and Director T: (778) 232-1878 E: [email protected] Forward-Looking Information: This press release may include forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, concerning the business of Rare Earth Ridge. Forward-looking information is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the management of Rare Earth Ridge. 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. Although Rare Earth Ridge 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 Rare Earth Ridge can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180981 New role better positions team to support growing number of automotive dealer groups ROCKVILLE, Md. , Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Autosled, a leading provider of digital technology solutions for vehicle transport logistics, announced today the promotion of Sam Goldenberg to Director of Enterprise Sales. In his new role, Sam leads an emerging department of Business Development Representatives serving retail automotive dealer groups nationwide. A member of Autosled's team since the company's launch, he most recently served as the company's Inside Sales Manager. "With a proven track record of being one of Autosled's top sales producers, coupled with consistent, raving customer feedback, Sam has earned this next step in his career at Autosled," noted Bart Schuster , Autosled's vice president of sales. "With a proven track record of being one of Autosled's top sales producers, coupled with consistent, raving customer feedback, Sam has earned this next step in his career at Autosled," noted Bart Schuster , Autosled's vice president of sales. "He and his team will be the incubator for the division's future growth, continued customer retention, and future service and expansion efforts that will be critical for Autosled." Sam's promotion comes in conjunction with the development of Autosled's new enterprise sales division. A key component of Autosled's continuous improvements for its products and infrastructure, this team is focused on meeting the increased vehicle demands from mid-size and large retail automotive dealer groups. Working closely with other departments of the company including Product, IT, Marketing, and Operations, retail auto dealers managing multiple stores and brands, can now use Autosled's enterprise sales team to help streamline their vehicle transport operations. In this position, Sam will be responsible for hiring, training and mentoring Autosled's new enterprise sales team while ensuring market coverage for retail auto dealerships at the group level. He'll also identify promotional opportunities for future Business Development Managers at Autosled. "Sam is uniquely qualified for this position. He spent his early days at Autosled developing and expanding the transporter network along with my brother, Dan Sperau , and myself. He was intricately involved with the company's beginning and has grown alongside it," noted David Sperau , co-founder and chief revenue officer for Autosled. "Couple that with his partnership expertise in high volume dealer groups, and it produces the perfect blend needed to continue growing Autosled's national footprint." About Autosled Autosled provides seamless digital vehicle shipment options for dealers, transporters, auctioneers, brokers, and individuals. As a tech first company, Autosled's web and phone platforms create a marketplace between shippers and transporters that are faster, cheaper and more reliable. Services include custom price quotes, secure online payments, electronic accounting and invoicing, online vehicle shipment scheduling, verified transporter insurance and a vetted network. Vehicles delivered through Autosled are trackable, with real-time GPS and communication with transporters throughout the process. For more information, visit: www.autosled.com. For Media Inquiries, contact: Peyton Hoffman CP Consulting Group (757) 748-4533 (cell) [email protected] Media Contact Peyton Hoffman , Autosled, 1 7577484533, [email protected], www.autosled.com View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/autosled-appoints-sam-goldenberg-to-director-of-enterprise-sales-301928818.html SOURCE Autosled Event at UN SDG Zone highlights the power of technology to solve big global challenges NEW YORK , Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) today announced technology as a new eighth pillar of the Human Security for All (HS4A) campaign. The announcement took place at an event on the United Nations Main Campus, co-hosted by CTA, World Academy of Art and Science (WAAS) and the UN Trust Fund for Human Security during the 78th session of the UN General Assembly. CTA today announced technology as a new eighth pillar of the Human Security for All (HS4A) campaign. "Technology is making our world a better place to live for literally billions of people, and we are only just scratching the surface of what's possible," said Gary Shapiro , president and CEO, CTA. "I'm thrilled to continue work with the UN Trust Fund for Human Security and World Academy of Art and Science to advance the HS4A global campaign and showcase the innovations that transform our world at CES 2024 and beyond." The addition of technology as a human security pillaralongside economic, environmental, food, health, political, personal and community securityreflects the power of technology as a tool to advance human security in all its dimensions. Access to technology enhances the human experience. It is essential to development, enabling us to do more with less, tackle the world's most pressing challenges and close the sustainable development goals (SDG) investment gap. These themes animated the UN event, which featured remarks by the UN Secretary General's Envoy on Technology Amandeep Singh Gill , as well as a panel discussion on technology's power to address global challenges with Kinsey Fabrizio , SVP of CES and Membership, CTA; Garry Jacobs , President & CEO, WAAS; and Megan Lee , Chairwoman and CEO, Panasonic, moderated by CNN Business Senior Writer Samantha Kelly . A recording of the event can be viewed via UN Web TV. The connection between technology and human security will be pervasive throughout CES 2024, which will showcase technology that is addressing the world's biggest challenges through its show floor exhibits, conference programing and Innovations Awards program. About Consumer Technology Association: As North America's largest technology trade association, CTA is the tech sector. Our members are the world's leading innovators from startups to global brands helping support more than 18 million American jobs. CTA owns and produces CES the most powerful tech event in the world. Find us at CTA.tech. Follow us @CTAtech. About CES: CES is the most powerful tech event in the world the proving ground for breakthrough technologies and global innovators. This is where the world's biggest brands do business and meet new partners, and the sharpest innovators hit the stage. Owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), CES features every aspect of the tech sector. CES 2024 will take place Jan. 9-12, 2024 , in Las Vegas . Learn more at CES.tech and follow CES on social. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cta-announces-technology-as-new-human-security-pillar-301930477.html SOURCE Consumer Technology Association Integration of Erica Technology Strengthens Self-Service Capabilities for Over 40,000 Clients Around the World NEW YORK , Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bank of America is elevating the experience of its business clients through enhancements to CashPro Chat, a virtual service advisor within the CashPro banking platform. CashPro is used by more than 40,000 corporate and commercial clients around the world to manage their treasury operations. CashPro Chat now includes the same proprietary artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning capabilities behind Erica the company's popular virtual financial assistant that's been used by more than 38 million individuals to access account information, transfer funds, send money to friends and family, and more. Business clients can now experience the power of this advanced virtual assistant to quickly view transactions, find information about their accounts and navigate CashPro functionality. As needed, the virtual advisor will route more complex requests to specialized service teams to resolve. "Finance teams today need access to information quickly, at any time of day, and from any location. Whatever we can do to eliminate friction will help them respond better and faster to real-time events and demands," said Tom Durkin, Global Product Head of CashPro in Global Transaction Services (GTS) at Bank of America. "This latest enhancement to CashPro Chat is a great demonstration of how we're doing just that." CashPro Chat supplements the CashPro Search feature, launched in May, that enables clients to easily find a specific transaction from potentially hundreds of bank accounts. This time-saving function acts like an online search engine that can locate information across multiple data sets using keywords. "CashPro Chat has become one of the most heavily used service functions on our banking platform thanks to the efficiency it creates for our clients," said Sue Caras , head of Global Commercial Banking for GTS at Bank of America. "Through the integration of Erica, our virtual service advisor will become smarter and more sophisticated the more our clients use it." "Bank of America's ability to innovate owes much to the company's internal collaboration where best practices and cutting-edge technology can be leveraged across business lines," said Patricia Hines , Head of Banking and Payments at Celent, a leading research and advisory firm focused on technology for financial institutions globally. "The Erica technology distinguishes the CashPro platform from its peers, giving the bank's clients a best-in-class experience offered by a financial assistant." CashPro: Innovation and Momentum Highlights A platform of innovation CashPro is the banking platform that 40,000 Bank of America clients use to manage and monitor their payments, deposits, loans and trade finance transactions. CashPro offers a premium user experience that is delivered through multiple technology patents centered on digital innovation. The platform currently has 25 granted patents with more pending. CashPro Chat enabled by Bank of America's Erica Since launch, chat volume increased by 41% compared to the 2023 weekly average. Meanwhile, chats with a live agent decreased by 16%. CashPro Forecasting In January 2022 , Bank of America launched a cash-forecasting solution that uses machine learning technology. The solution has seen rapid adoption. From first half 2022 to first half 2023, new client enrollments have soared 141%; the number of active users has increased by 105%, and total sign-ins amongst those users have increased by 375%. Coming soon to CashPro Launch of CashPro Supply Chain Solutions, a platform that will offer participants in a supply chain the benefits of digitization with improved process efficiency and working capital optimization. Launch of CashPro Insights, the latest tool within the CashPro Data Intelligence product suite, will analyze information that flows through CashPro and present data-driven insights to users. The first functionality clients will see is a Security Meter that measures the robustness of a user's security controls. Future insights will focus on transaction activity and proactive suggestions to optimize operational efficiency. Further enhancements to CashPro Forecasting and more robust functionality added to CashPro Search, including the ability to initiate and track investigations. Bank of America Bank of America is one of the world's leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States , serving approximately 68 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 3,900 retail financial centers, approximately 15,000 ATMs (automated teller machines) and award-winning digital banking with approximately 57 million verified digital users. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. Bank of America offers industry-leading support to approximately 4 million small business households through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations across the United States , its territories and more than 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BAC). For more Bank of America news, including dividend announcements and other important information, visit the Bank of America newsroom and register for news email alerts. Reporters may contact: Louise Hennessy , Bank of America Phone: 1.646.858.6471 [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/enhancements-to-bofas-cashpro-chat-create-greater-efficiencies-for-business-clients-301930054.html SOURCE Bank of America Corporation AUSTIN, Texas , Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fast Lane Drive , the car club setting the gold standard in the automotive community, is excited to announce the opening of its latest branch in Austin, Texas . Known for its high-caliber member base, likened to that of YPO and Soho House, the Austin club's opening marks the ninth location for the brand, securing its title as the world's largest car club. The "YPO/Soho House of Car Clubs" Fast Lane Drive offers an elite environment comparable to exclusive circles like the Young Presidents' Organization ("YPO") and Soho House, attracting a discerning membership with a shared passion for top-of-the-line automobiles. Fast Lane Drive Austin will feature the same quality standards and high-level offerings that are synonymous with the Fast Lane Drive brand worldwide. What Sets Fast Lane Drive Austin Apart? Centrally located in the dynamic city of Austin, Texas , the latest branch of Fast Lane Drive will provide a range of signature amenities including: Exclusive drives and events like yacht parties, Monaco events, multi chapters across the world, F1 races, and more; events, multi chapters across the world, F1 races, and more; Exclusive social events and networking opportunities designed with our members in mind; and Priority access to motorsport events and new car launches. Becoming the World's Largest Car Club With the unveiling of Fast Lane Drive Austin, the brand fortifies its position as the world's largest car club. From San Diego to Monaco , each location has upheld the club's commitment to offering a luxury experience to passionate automotive enthusiasts. "We are thrilled to bring the Fast Lane Drive experience to Austin , a city celebrated for its rich culture and vibrant automotive community," said Clement Connor , CEO of Fast Lane Drive . "The opening of our ninth location not only expands our global footprint but also broadens the horizons for our members, delivering unparalleled experiences to a new circle of elite car enthusiasts." Membership Information Fast Lane Drive Austin is now reviewing applications for a select number of founding memberships. For additional details or to apply, please visit www.fastlanedrive.com (http://www.fastlanedrive.com) About Fast Lane Drive Established in 2018, Fast Lane Drive has swiftly risen to become the world's largest and most exclusive car club, providing a unique platform for high-net-worth individuals to explore their love for exotic cars and network with a ever-expanding like-minded community. With the addition of its new location, Fast Lane Drive continues to redefine luxury in the automotive world. CONTACT: [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fast-lane-drive-austin-opens-its-doors-becoming-the-worlds-largest-car-club-with-location-number-nine-301930089.html FALLS CHURCH, Va. , Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT), a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), announced today that it swept all initial task orders on the $4.5 billion Department of the Air Force Security Support Services indefinite-delivery/indefinite quantity contract. The value of these task orders cannot be disclosed due to program sensitivities. The multiple-award, indefinite-delivery-indefinite quantity contract, initially awarded in February 2021 , includes a five-year base period and a five-year option. Following multiple protests by a competitor, the Air Force notified GDIT in August 2023 that all protests were resolved. Under the contract, which is expected to start on Nov. 15 , GDIT will implement comprehensive security services including information, personnel and communications security as well as counterintelligence analysis and cybersecurity assessments. "Protecting our operational and technological advantages from adversaries is critical to our national security," said Brian Sheridan , GDIT's senior vice president for the defense division. "We are committed to this critical Air Force mission and have been planning for the program's success during this time. We look forward to executing on these task orders." For more than 50 years, GDIT has supported the Air Force with critical programs, including those in support of global intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions, automation of security services, and advancement of digital engineering. General Dynamics is a global aerospace and defense company that offers a broad portfolio of products and services in business aviation; ship construction and repair; land combat vehicles, weapons systems, and munitions; and technology products and services. General Dynamics employs more than 100,000 people worldwide and generated $39.4 billion in revenue in 2022. More information about General Dynamics Information Technology is available at www.gdit.com. More information about General Dynamics is available at www.gd.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/gdit-wins-all-initial-task-orders-on-4-5-billion-department-of-the-air-force-security-support-services-idiq-contract-301930652.html SOURCE General Dynamics Information Technology Minjoo Party leader Lee Jae-myung was rushed to hospital on Monday morning after a hunger strike that has been going on for 19 days. Lee, who is under investigation for corruption, went on a public hunger strike at the National Assembly on Aug. 31 over a smorgasbord of demands. He was barely conscious when he was taken to St. Mary's Hospital in Yeouido, Seoul in an ambulance at around 7 a.m. As the weekend approached, senior party officials and medical professionals had urged Lee to stop fasting, but he refused. That prompted Minjoo Party lawmakers to suddenly demand the resignation of the entire Cabinet, while the ruling People Power Party is accusing the opposition of staging a "useless" stunt. Medical staff also called an ambulance the previous day but Lee resisted being taken away. A presidential official said, "The victims of this useless protest are the public." Leader in China's AI movement; Asia's 'number one' economist; and one of Mid East's most powerful businesswomen among headliners confirmed for debut forum DUBAI, UAE , Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- One of Japan's largest investment firms with more than US$500 billion in assets under management (AUM) is spearheading an indomitable presence of Asian capital power at a UAE conference next month transforming a new global economy. The inaugural SuperBridge Summit, taking place from 16-17 October 2023 at Dubai 's iconic Museum of the Future is a unique platform converging more than 500 investors, business, government, policy and cultural leaders from 20 countries to accelerate investment and co-creation opportunities in hitherto untapped and under-explored markets. Channelled through future-focused outcomes, it will intensify collaborations in the world's largest and rapidly expanding economies, including China , India , Indonesia , Vietnam , Brazil , UAE , Saudi Arabia , South Africa , and Nigeria , which, according to estimates, will collectively contribute over 45 percent of the world's GDP by 2050. The powerful two-day forum has confirmed a diverse international line-up of influential speakers seen for the first time in the Middle East , including Dr. Tuan Le Anh , Chief Investment Officer of Dragon Capital in Vietnam , and Takashi Maruyama , Chief Investment Officer, Asset Management One, Japan's second largest asset management fund with half a trillion USD in AUM. Joining more than 60 speakers from across the globe, Dr. Tuan and Mr. Maruyama will unlock the multifaceted investment value of cross-border capital allocation for the world's estimated US$11.3 trillion worth of sovereign wealth funds. Mr. Maruyama said cross-regional investments can play a beneficial role when building an investment portfolio, mitigating risk while offering the chance of superior returns. "However, they do expose investors to divergent regulatory frameworks, cultural nuances, and geopolitical dynamics," he said. " Japan's equity market has long been neglected by global investors despite the rally this year that captured wide attention." "I am looking forward to presenting the case of investing in Japan at SuperBridge Summit in Dubai , and doing a deep dive into the due diligence and strategic considerations that investors need to look at before embarking on the cross-regional journey." AI foundation models to advance research around cancer and other diseases Reconciling future missions with today's realities, SuperBridge Summit Dubai will connect the world's new leaders, accelerating growth and prosperity via the most pertinent topics and issues under the overarching theme of Connectivity, Liveability, Sustainability, and Investments in a New Global Economy. Dr. Hongjiang Zhang , Advisor to the Beijing Academy of AI in China , an award-winning computer scientist, holder of more than 150 patents, a Chinese AI guru, and author of numerous books, will sit on an executive panel unleashing AI for practical purposes in the real world. Joined by prominent global AI leaders, Dr. Zhang's session arrives as new research suggests generative AI, the type that powers LLM (large-language-model) technology, will generate $4.4 trillion in new value annually, unleashing a new wave of AI diffused productivity. Dr. Zhang said the huge technological breakthrough in AI foundation models has catalysed a new turning point in the third wave of this cutting-edge tool: "As a fundamental platform, the AI foundation model will become the next generation of super entrance, systematically promoting industries into new paradigms, and making critical contributions to the efficiency revolution in various industries," said Dr. Zhang , pointing to pharmaceuticals as a prime beneficiary. "The Beijing Academy of Artificial Intelligence has made significant progress in using foundation models to reduce the design complexity of macromolecular drugs, and is expected to be applied in new treatment plans for diseases such as cancer. "The foundation model will also greatly improve the production efficiency of traditional industries, such as finance, education, agriculture, manufacturing, and other fields, and will change the manufacturing process, production mode, and business model of these traditional industries." A pioneering initiative by KAOUN International, a subsidiary of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), and the SuperBridge Council, the SuperBridge Summit Dubai is held in partnership with the 43rd edition of GITEX Global, the world's largest and most influential tech event hosted in Dubai , attracting tech executives and investors from 170 countries. Other headline speakers confirmed for the visionary programme include Dr. Jun Ma , Founder and President of China's Institute of Finance and Sustainability, and Asia's number one economist according to Institutional Investor; Noor Sweid , General Partner at Global Ventures, and ranked among the Forbes 100 most powerful Middle East businesswomen in 2023; and Lionel Zinsou , Founder and Managing Partner of SouthBridge Group, a financial advisory service company dedicated to Africa . More information is available at www.superbridgedubai.com Website: http://superbridgedubai.com/ Press Registration: http://event.superbridgedubai.com/MediaRegistration On social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/superbridgesummit/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superbridgesummit/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/superbridgedxb LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/superbridgesummit/about/ Hashtag: #SuperBridgeDubai About KAOUN International KAOUN International is the independent events company and wholly owned subsidiary of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) established to organize and manage events internationally. Derived from the Arabic word 'universe', KAOUN International's mission is to 'Create Limitless Connections' for the industries and markets in which it operates. Created to leverage the 40-year legacy of DWTC's events management business and drive future MICE sector opportunity in the MENASA region. KAOUN International delivers game-changing live experiences that build robust business connections, create opportunity, and stimulate economic growth, building on DWTC's extensive portfolio of business and consumer events spanning multiple sectors, including technology, food and hospitality, sustainability, broadcast and satellite, automotive, talent development and leisure marine. About the SuperBridge Council The SuperBridge Council was established to synergize and bring together a new non-political platform for global leaders from fast-growing economies. It bridges the old and the young, tradition and modernity, the north and the south, the east and the west, to inspire new strategies and forge sustainable solutions for the next generations to thrive. The inaugural edition of the show will take place from 16-17 October 2023 , at the Museum of the Future in Dubai , UAE . More information: http://superbridgedubai.com/ Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2213631/Takashi_Maruyama.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2213632/Zhang_Hong_Jiang.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/global-investors-wielding-us500-billion-in-capital-eye-new-opportunities-in-worlds-fastest-growing-economies-at-inaugural-superbridge-summit-dubai-301930694.html SOURCE SuperBridge Summit Dubai BEIJING , Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- "I like watching the Chinese reality show Running Man, I like Chinese actress Dilraba and Chinese hot-pot" Joanne Cilia Vosalevu, a 23-year-old Fijian woman told the Global Times at the Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, where she started her year-long Chinese language study journey on August 16 . As a student from the University of the South Pacific (USP) majoring in IT and business management, Joanne studied Chinese for about three years before coming to China. "My mom likes China very much and she loves Jackie Chan ," Joanne said, noting that her love for Chinese culture was influenced by her mother, especially after she encountered Chinese reality shows and dramas such as Running Man and Go Fighting! Joanne's Chinese language learning journey started in the Lautoka camp of the Confucius Institute at the USP. "For two hours a week and I kept learning for three years," Joanne told the Global Times. Joanne's talent in mastering various forms of Chinese art was greatly showcased at the Confucius Institute back home, with outstanding performances in Chinese songs, Chinese traditional instrument hulusi flute playing and Chinese painting. As a result, she won the 20th Chinese Bridge Chinese Preliminary Competition in the Fiji region in 2021 and also received an International Chinese Language Teachers Scholarship (CLEC) and the opportunity to study in China for a year. The CLEC is a non-profit professional educational institution for international Chinese language education, affiliated with the Chinese Ministry of Education. It is committed to providing quality services for people from all over the world to learn Chinese and understand China . It also intends to build a platform for friendly collaboration in language education and cross-cultural learning. Joanne is the second student at the USP Confucius Institute to receive this honor since the establishment of the scholarship. Just like her favorite Chinese song "Invisible Wings," Chinese has become Jenny's wings, helping her fly higher and further. Providing an opportunity The establishment of the Confucius Institute at the USP in 2012 provided an opportunity for people from South Pacific island countries like Joanne, who love China and want to learn Chinese, to learn the language in their own countries. In mid-August, when Global Times reporters visited the USP Confucius Institute in Suva, Fiji , the reporters were firstly greeted by a Confucius statue erected in front of the institute's office building. Li Yini, director of the institute, welcomed the reporters in traditional Fijian attire and a flower behind her right ear. "It is a local custom for married women to wear flowers behind their right ear, while unmarried women wear them behind their left ear," Li explained. Local female staff at the institute said they love Chinese cheongsams. As Li said, the original intention of the establishment of the Confucius Institute was to facilitate understanding between South Pacific island countries and China . Li's sense of style and local women's love for Chinese cheongsams demonstrated that cultural exchanges between China and countries in the South Pacific region have already become integrated into people's daily lives. The institute provides Chinese courses not only to students at the USP, but also to students at other universities as well as middle and elementary schools, officials and workers from local governmental departments and institutes, and other local residents who are interested in the Chinese language and Chinese culture. "We provide three different levels of courses to people with various Chinese language proficiencies," Li said. She noted that the institute also provides cultural courses, including in the art of paper cutting, tea art and Chinese painting. These courses allow local students to get a taste of the uniqueness of Chinese culture and build a communication bridge between people on both sides. The USP is one of only two regional universities in the world and is a leading higher education institution in the South Pacific region. It has branch campuses in 12 regional countries. Currently, the Confucius Institute at the USP has established Confucius classrooms in Fiji's Lautoka, Vanuatu and the Cook Islands , forming a "three countries, four locations" educational framework. With the promotion of online Chinese credit courses, Chinese language teaching now covers 12 countries in the South Pacific region. Over the last decade, the institute has offered more than 700 international Chinese language courses, taught for more than 20,000 hours and trained at least 10,000 students, according to Li. The Confucius Institute's commitment to cultivating Chinese language talents in Fiji has also won recognition from the government. Fiji's Minister for Education, Heritage and Arts Rosy Akbar emphasized that China's support and cooperation will help improve Fiji's domestic education system and also contribute to the cultivation of more Chinese language talents to meet future demands for Chinese education, during her visit to the Confucius Institute on August 30 . She also expressed hope that the Confucius Institute at the USP will provide higher quality language courses for Fijian nationals, especially young people, and use language and culture as a medium to promote long-term friendly cooperation and development between the two countries in various aspects. Eyeing the future The Chinese language is also facilitating the building of a friendship bridge between China and other regional island countries. "Let us gently row the oars, the boat pushes waves ashore" On August 22 , in Chung Wah School, Honiara, Solomon Islands , a group of primary school students performed a well-known children's song in Chinese celebrating friendship to the guests. The children, dressed in sailor-style uniforms, had Chinese and Solomon Islands national flags painted on their faces, while many of their schoolmates waved the small flags along to the rhythm of the performance. Chung Wah means " China ." The school was founded after World War II by the Chinese community in Solomon Islands . In September 2019 , after China and Solomon Islands officially established diplomatic ties, the school raised Solomon Islands' first Chinese national flag. As a top school in Honiara , the capital of the island nation, the school has hundreds of students. Even though most of them are not ethnically Chinese, they still learn the Chinese language as part of the school's long-standing tradition. Eunice Tahuniara, the head of the Chung Wah School, believes it is important for her students to be exposed to diverse cultures, especially as ties between China and Solomon Islands have deepened significantly in recent years. "It is a positive development to see more Chinese people coming here," Tahuniara told the Global Times. "We are building our friendship and we're strengthening our relationship. It's not just limited to social interactions; we're also expanding into areas like education and various other aspects." Even though the COVID-19 pandemic caused Chinese language classes to be suspended for two years, the school is expected to continue its proud tradition. Hannah Liu , a Chinese language teacher, arrived at the school earlier this year all the way from Sweden to Honiara and resumed lessons. More teachers dispatched from China are also expected to join Liu later this year. "Our students here may, in the future, have the opportunity to engage with Chinese institutions for exchanges or even for teachers to pursue further studies. This way, the friendship can continue to develop and extend beyond our current boundaries," she noted. In early July, at the opening ceremony of Solomon Islands' Embassy in Beijing , some young Solomon Islanders currently studying at various Chinese universities, dressed in the island nation's traditional attire, joyfully performed traditional dances representing the country's different islands. Thanks to the support of the Chinese government, many students from Solomon Islands have been able to receive higher education in China in recent years. They are the best example of the people-to-people exchanges taking place between the two countries. "I meet many helpful people here and I want to study very hard in China ," Roxbe Gideon, a student from Solomon Islands in Northwestern Polytechnical University in Northwest China's Shaanxi Province , told the Global Times at the event. Gideon, majoring in civil engineering, said that he would like to follow in his father's footsteps and become an engineer. Nisi Alexandrick, Gideon's schoolmate, majoring in aeronautics, hopes to use the knowledge he gathers in China to help improve aeronautics or aircraft systems in his home country, in order to improve air transportation. Just like Gideon and Alexandrick, more and more young islanders are boarding the BRI fast train. This month, another group of outstanding young people from Solomon Islands will head to China to embark on their university journeys. At a farewell ceremony on September 6 , Chinese Ambassador to Solomon Islands Li Ming warmly congratulated the students, encouraging them to experience China's modernization and high-quality development achievements firsthand, delve into the splendidness of Chinese culture, and return to their homeland after completing their studies to contribute their wisdom and strength to the economic and social development of Solomon Islands and the friendly relations between China and Solomon Islands . Promoting local development At a local store in Fiji , a shop assistant took the initiative to reveal to Global Times reporters in Chinese, "These products are eligible for tax refunds at the airport." He said that there are now more and more Chinese tourists in the local area in order to provide better service. Aboard the flight from Nandi to Honiara , a flight attendant asked a Global Times reporter how to say beef and chicken in Chinese. He said he was learning Chinese as the number of Chinese tourists using the airline's services has grown. With the increasing number of Chinese tourists to the South Pacific region, some local companies also have a growing demand for Chinese language talents. "In May this year, we went to Shangri-La Hotel in Fiji to provide 40 hours of training for hotel staff. Now there are more and more Chinese guests and they have practical needs. Many staffers at the hotel also request to come to our classes to learn Chinese," Li Yini told the Global Times. "Learning Chinese has become a trend in Fiji . The number of people enrolling in our social classes is increasing, sometimes exceeding our maximum capacity, and the classrooms are not enough," Li said. The ultimate aim of learning Chinese is to foster better cooperation and promote local development. China has been helping Fiji to construct buildings, roads, and supermarkets. These are very good forms of cooperation that have helped greatly in Fiji's development, Joanne told the Global Times. She noted that Fiji should learn more from China in areas such as technology and culture to promote local development. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/global-times-friendship-affection-in-full-bloom-language-culture-exchanges-build-bridge-between-china-pics-301930260.html SOURCE Global Times CHENGDU, China , Sept. 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Pandas can be seen everywhere in Chengdu , as the city in Southwest China's Sichuan Province has decorated every street corner and shop with the hometown mascot ahead of the first Golden Panda Awards on Tuesday and Wednesday. With films and TV series as the medium and the panda as its cultural symbol, the upcoming awards are committed to promoting exchanges and mutual learning among global civilizations, allowing everyone to get closer to China while the country embraces the world. "The selection event for the first Golden Panda Awards demonstrates the responsibility of touching and exploring common human emotions, and leads the direction of industry development," Ren Zhonglun, the preliminary jury representative of the first Golden Panda Awards and vice chairman of the China Film Association, said in an interview. The Golden Panda Awards focuses on "the exchange of different cultures." Compared with existing domestic awards, the Golden Panda Awards clearly reflects the role of "improving the influence of Chinese culture." Hosted by the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles and the Sichuan Provincial Government, the Golden Panda Awards will be held every two years and be permanently based in Sichuan. The participating works for the first year's event reflect China's internationalization and openness. In the early stage, the committee used a combination of public submissions and targeted invites to collect works from around the world. The total number of collected works reached 7,024 from 104 countries and regions, including 4,927 foreign works, accounting for 70 percent of the total. "Among these nominated works, we see a diverse range of films, from art films to commercial ones, on a variety of topics, ranging from family ties to sci-fi concepts," Sun Jiashan, an associate researcher at the China National Academy of Arts, told the Global Times on Sunday. "As the panda is one of China's most well-known cultural icons, films and TV series will work together to shape a reliable, admirable and respectable image of China ." US composer Nathan Wang , also one of the jury members for the film awards, said that he couldn't wait to "see so many people coming together from different walks of life in the world, as the Golden Panda Awards will foster mutual understanding between countries." He couldn't "imagine any better place to be able to host something like this," as he feels Chengdu is the perfect place for the cultural feast. For Chantal Rickards from the UK , who is also a jury member for the TV drama category, this is not only her first time visiting the "hometown of pandas," but also a trip full of excitement and surprises, as the awards foster cultural exchanges and understanding to "create a global community that comes together around storytelling." The expression of human emotion is always an important core of film and TV productions as "the power of art transcends borders. It is never the case that just because a work was shot by people from one country, audiences from other countries cannot share the emotions it conveys," added Ren. The entries for this Golden Panda Awards all reflect the characteristics of promoting truthfulness, goodness and beauty of human nature. "The first Golden Panda Awards aims to play its role as a cultural carrier and help promote the building of a global community of shared future." The First Golden Panda Awards will cover four categories: film, TV series, documentaries and animated works. These will be presented across three main activities - Night of the Golden Panda, the Golden Panda International Cultural Forum, and the Golden Panda Gala - as well as three types of supporting events: visiting events, public film screenings and new exhibitions. The logo of the Golden Panda Awards was designed by a team at the Sichuan Academy of Fine Arts. A panda forms the main body, while Tai Chi elements have been incorporated into the design. The design creates a strong visual impact and expresses the interaction, exchanges and mutual learning between different cultures. The statuette was designed by the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts. The overall shape is a cute panda engraved on the top of bamboo joints, which represents the concept of steadily rising quality. The final results will be unveiled at the Golden Panda Gala on Wednesday night. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/global-times-golden-panda-awards-arrives-with-cultural-exchange-feast-taking-chengdu-by-storm-301929895.html SOURCE Global Times BUENOS AIRES, Argentina , Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- IRSA Inversiones y Representaciones S.A. (NYSE:IRS, ByMA: IRSA), Argentina's leading Real Estate company, informs that CNV and BYMA approved what has been decided in the Company's Shareholders meeting held on April 27, 2023 : An increase in the capital stock in the amount of ARS 6,552,405,000 , through the partial capitalization of the Issue Premium account, resulting in the issuance of 6,552,405,000 common shares, with a par value of ARS 1 and with the right to one vote per share. , through the partial capitalization of the Issue Premium account, resulting in the issuance of 6,552,405,000 common shares, with a par value of and with the right to one vote per share. Changing the nominal value of the ordinary shares from ARS 1 to ARS 10 each and entitled to one (1) vote per share. It should be mentioned that this capitalization and change in the nominal value of the shares do not modify the economic values of the holdings or the percentage of participation in the share capital. The Company informs all shareholders who have such quality as of September 19, 2023 , according to the registry maintained by Caja de Valores S.A., that from September 20, 2023 , the shares distribution and the change in nominal value will be made simultaneously and the entry of the change of 811,137,457 book-entry common shares, with a nominal value of ARS 1 each and one vote per share, for the amount of 736,354,245 book-entry common shares with a nominal value of ARS 10 each and one vote per share, consequently, a reverse split of the Company's shares shall be carried out, where every 1 (one) old share with nominal value of ARS 1 shall be exchanged for 0.907804514 new shares with nominal value ARS 10 . The new shares to be distributed due to the described capitalization will have economic rights under equal conditions with those that are currently in circulation. Also, regarding the GDS holders, we instruct BNYM to process the reverse split, at the same rate as mentioned above for the ADR program, effective October 3, 2023 . Regarding the shareholders who, because of the entry in the Scriptural Registry, have fractions of common shares with a nominal value of ARS 10 and one vote per share, they will be settled in cash in accordance with the listing regulations of Bolsas y Mercados Argentinos. Regarding the shareholders who, due to the exchange of shares did not reach at least one share with a nominal value of ARS 10 , the necessary amount will be assigned to them until the nominal value of ARS 10 is completed. It is reported that the Company share capital after the indicated operations will amount to ARS 7,363,542,450 represented by 736,354,245 book-entry common shares with a nominal value of ARS 10 each and one vote per share. Likewise, and for the purpose of clarification, some examples are detailed below, where the effects of capitalization and change in nominal value are assumed, and effects on the price are not considered for market reasons: COMMON SHARES IRSA MARKET VALUE EXAMPLE FOR AN INVESTOR HOLDING 100 COMMON SHARES CURRENT AFTER CAPITALIZATION CURRENT HOLDING HOLDING AFTER CAPITALIZATION Number of Shares 811,137,457 736,354,245 100 90 Price (9/12/2023) ARS 505.20 ARS 505.20 Price (estimated) ARS 556.51 ARS 556.51 +Payment of fraction in cash ARS 434.10 Market Value ARS 409,787 million ARS 50,520.00 GDSs IRSA MARKET VALUE EXAMPLE FOR AN INVESTOR HOLDING 100 GDSs CURRENT AFTER CAPITALIZATION CURRENT HOLDING HOLDING AFTER CAPITALIZATION Number of GDSs 81.1 million 73.6 million 100 90* Price (9/12/2023) USD 6.77 USD 6.77 Price (estimated) USD 7.46 USD 7.46 Market Value USD 549.1 million USD 677 * Fractions will be settled in accordance with Deposit Agreement provisions. Investor Relations Department. + 5411 4323-7449 [email protected] https://www.irsa.com.ar/home-inversores.php?lng=en Follow us on X @irsair View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/irsa-announces-a-change-in-the-total-amount-of-shares-and-its-nominal-value-with-no-economic-impact-301930709.html SOURCE IRSA Inversiones y Representaciones S.A. Michelle Gaskill-Hames has served in the role on an interim basis since April 2023 OAKLAND, Calif. , Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Kaiser Permanente has announced that Michelle Gaskill-Hames, RN , has been named regional president of Kaiser Permanente for Southern California and Hawaii , a role she has held on an interim basis since April 2023 . She will lead the organization's focus on providing integrated, high-quality health care and coverage in partnership with the executive medical director for the Southern California Permanente Medical Group. Kaiser Permanente currently provides care and coverage for more than 5 million members in Southern California and Hawaii . Gaskill-Hames previously served as the chief operating officer and chief strategy, growth, and experience officer for Kaiser Permanente in Southern California and Hawaii . She was named interim president following the announced retirement of Julie Miller-Phipps . "Michelle uses her deep operational knowledge and strategic focus to ensure that our members consistently receive high-quality care and service at every touchpoint," said Janet Liang , executive vice president, group president and chief operating officer, care delivery, for Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc. and Hospitals. "She keeps our members' needs at the center of all of that she does." Gaskill-Hames joined Kaiser Permanente in 2016 and served in a progression of leadership roles in Northern California before moving to Southern California in 2022, including senior vice president and area manager for both Redwood City and Greater Southern Alameda , interim regional chief nurse executive, and senior vice president of hospital and health plan operations. Prior to joining Kaiser Permanente, Gaskill-Hames served in multiple hospital leadership roles, including president of Advocate Trinity Hospital in the Advocate Health Care network in Chicago . Gaskill-Hames is an executive board member of the California Hospital Association and the Integrated Healthcare Association. She has also recently been appointed to the Business Cabinet for Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass . About Kaiser Permanente Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America's leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.7 million members in 8 states and the District of Columbia . Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, contact: [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kaiser-permanente-names-new-southern-california-and-hawaii-regional-president-301930815.html SOURCE Kaiser Permanente FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. , Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- LSPedia, a leading traceability solution provider for the pharmaceutical industry, announced that it has selected Drogueria Betances, one of the largest wholesale distributors in Puerto Rico , as an official reseller of LSPedia's OneScan Pharmacy Pro, the pharmacy industry's top solution for compliance with the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA). This partnership will increase the availability of Pharmacy Pro across Puerto Rico , enabling pharmacies to achieve comprehensive compliance with their requirements under DSCSA while protecting their businesses against audits, regulatory penalties, and losses incurred by data errors and exceptions. LSPedia's OneScan Pharmacy Pro enables any pharmacy to quickly achieve comprehensive DSCSA compliance, offering seamless integration with pharmacy systems as well as modules that cover essential functions such as serialization, EPCIS data, and verification. The solution also features automated exceptions management via LSPedia's breakthrough Investigator technology, an advantage that prevents product loss and drastically reduces the time needed to resolve transaction problems. Juan Carlos Hernandez , President of Drogueria Betances, said the partnership provides vital support for Puerto Rico's pharmacies. "There's nothing more important to us than protecting independent pharmacies and their patients. By offering Pharmacy Pro, we have an opportunity not only to help pharmacies avoid the dangers of non-compliance, but to make their systems better, more secure, and more efficient." DSCSA, enacted in 2013, adds new requirements for pharmaceutical trading partners at all levels, aimed at enabling complete product traceability and preventing illegitimate products from entering the supply chain. As the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) stated in guidance at the end of August, all trading partners are to be in compliance with DSCSA ahead of the November 27, 2023 deadline, and use the following year as a stabilization period for their systems and procedures. "Drogueria Betances is exemplary in its dedication to compliance and use of best-in-class technology," said LSPedia's Daniel MacKinnon , Vice President of Sales & Marketing. "We're thrilled to partner with them on Pharmacy Pro. With access to this solution, pharmacies can meet both their current and their future obligations under DSCSA, and that's going to protect patients, support business growth, and strengthen the entire supply chain." About LSPedia DSCSA Compliance Solutions LSPedia is a leading provider of turnkey DSCSA compliance and SaaS solutions in the pharmaceutical industry. Trading partners at all points in the supply chain use LSPedia's OneScan solution to make, move, track, verify, ship, and receive serialized products. LSPedia builds solutions with workflow, automation, and data security at their core. OneScan delivers flexible integrations, high-performance product verification, and state-of-the-art EPCIS data exchange; LSPedia's Investigator platform is the gold standard for serialization exceptions management. For more information, call +1 (248) 973-2008, email [email protected], or visit www.lspedia.com. About Drogueria Betances Drogueria Betances, a locally owned Puerto Rican company, has been a leader in the pharmaceutical product distribution industry for over 60 years. They serve over 800 community pharmacies, hospitals, doctors, and veterinarians in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean . With a commitment to health and innovation, Drogueria Betances has evolved to impact the broader healthcare industry in Puerto Rico . They provide a wide range of pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter products, home healthcare products, and consumer goods. Drogueria Betances remains dedicated to serving Puerto Rico's healthcare needs with excellence, passion, integrity, transparency, and commitment. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lspedia-selects-drogueria-betances-as-an-official-reseller-of-onescan-pharmacy-pro-the-leading-fda-dscsa-solution-for-pharmacies-301929625.html SOURCE LSPedia SMITHFIELD, Va. , Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Smithfield Foods' U.S. employees collected more than 25,000 pounds of food to support hunger relief during Hunger Action Month, Feeding America's annual nationwide campaign to inspire conversation and drive passion for the issue of hunger. The equivalent of more than 21,000 meals, these donations will support food banks and hunger relief programs in Smithfield's local communities across the Unites States. "Feeding the hungry is at the core of our philanthropic efforts," said Jonathan Toms , senior community development manager for Smithfield Foods. "Each year, our Smithfield team members demonstrate through our Hunger Action Month food drive that they believe in our mission to fight hunger and food insecurity. It is remarkable to see how passionately they give back to support the communities we call home." "We are incredibly thankful to Smithfield and their team members for their generous contributions, both during Hunger Action Month and throughout the year," said Joe Weeden , senior director, commodity foods for Feeding America. "Our efforts to feed our neighbors facing food insecurity would not be possible without our partners like Smithfield . These donations of nonperishable food items, along with Smithfield's frequent donations of protein, go a long way in helping the Feeding America network address hunger across the country." Feeding America estimates approximately one in six people turned to charitable food assistance for additional support in 2022. A recent Feeding America survey found that 80% of network food banks reported either increased or steady demand for emergency food services in June 2023 . Smithfield supports Feeding America's network of food banks throughout the year with its signature hunger-relief initiative program, Helping Hungry Homes. Since 2008, the program has provided hundreds of millions of protein servings to fight hunger in all 50 U.S. states, as well as in Poland , Romania and Mexico . In 2022, Smithfield donated nearly 25 million servings of protein to food banks, disaster relief efforts and community outreach programs across the U.S. and has pledged to donate 200 million servings of protein by 2025. About Smithfield Foods, Inc. Headquartered in Smithfield, Virginia, since 1936, Smithfield Foods, Inc. is a U.S. food company that employs nearly 60,000 people in seven countries and partners with thousands of American farmers. As one of the world's leading vertically integrated protein companies, we are dedicated to producing "Good food. Responsibly." to feed a growing world population. We have pioneered sustainability standards for more than two decades, including our industry-leading commitments to become carbon negative in our U.S. company-owned operations and reduce GHG emissions 30% across our entire U.S. value chain by 2030. We believe in the power of protein to end food insecurity and have donated hundreds of millions of food servings to food banks, disaster relief efforts and community outreach programs in all 50 U.S. states. Smithfield boasts a portfolio of high-quality iconic brands, such as Smithfield, Eckrich, Gwaltney and Nathan's Famous, among many others. For more information, visit www.smithfieldfoods.com and connect with us on Facebook , X , formerly known as Twitter, LinkedIn , Instagram and Threads . About Feeding America Feeding America is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States . Through a network of more than 200 food banks, 21 statewide food bank associations, and over 60,000 partner agencies, food pantries and meal programs, we helped provide 5.2 billion meals to tens of millions of people in need last year. Feeding America also supports programs that prevent food waste and improve food security among the people we serve; brings attention to the social and systemic barriers that contribute to food insecurity in our nation; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Visit www.feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/smithfield-employees-donate-more-than-25-000-pounds-of-food-to-support-feeding-america-during-hunger-action-month-301930686.html SOURCE Smithfield Foods, Inc. TIANJIN, China , Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Second Vocational Skills Competition of the People's Republic of China opened in Tianjin on September 16 . The theme of this year's competition is "Skills making talents, Repatriation with skills". A total of 4045 participants from 36 delegations across the country took part in the competition for 109 project medals. Competitors such as 58-year-old "experienced masters", 16-year-old "beginning craftsman", students and corporate employees competed on the same stage. Li Qiang , Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China, recently gave important instructions on the work of skilled talents. He instructed that the skilled talent is a valuable resource for employment-first and innovation-driven development strategies. The Vocational Skills Competition of the People's Republic of China is held to build a platform for the majority of skilled talents to show their and exchange skills, which is conducive to promote the formation of a new era of employment with skills, becoming talents with skill, and repatriation with skills. The State Councillor Shen Yiqin attended the opening ceremony to announce the opening and researched on the related working progress of skilled talents. After the opening ceremony, Shen Yiqin visited the skill display exchange area of the competition as well as the manufacturing and transportation competitions; then she came to the Tianjin University of Technology and Education affiliated Advanced Technical School and the Worldskills Competition China (Tianjin) Research Center to research on and understand the cultivation of technical talents in technical colleges as well as the research and promotion of the World Skills Competition, etc. Wang Xiaoping , Minister of Human Resources and Social Security, introduced at the opening ceremony that the Second Vocational Skills Competition of the People's Republic of China is a comprehensive national vocational skills competition with the highest specifications, the most projects, the largest scale, the highest level and the most extensive influence in China . The purpose of the competition is to promote training, education, and construction with the competition, and constantly improve the training, utilization, evaluation, and incentive mechanisms for skilled talents. Compared with the previous competition, the scale and expansion of this competition are closely related to the development situation. Competitors have gone through various of selection in corporate or academic skill competitions, industry skill competitions, and provincial skill competitions, and stand out from hundreds of thousands of competitors, representing the highest level of skill competition in China in related projects. The event setup of this competition is completely new. Compared with the first competition, this one has added 20 new contests on professional and digital technology skills, such as all media operations, internet marketing, etc. These competitions are of great significance to enhance not only the social identity of new career practitioners, but also to promote employment and entrepreneurship. At the same time, five new professional technology contests such as intelligent manufacturing engineering technology and artificial intelligence engineering technology have been added, which are more in line with the trend of technological skills integration and development. According to reports, the competition will last for four days, and the closing ceremony will be held on September 19 . Not only the winners will be rewarded by then, Tianjin City will also hand over the flag to Henan Province , where the third competition will be held. Contact: Liu Hejiang Tel: 0086-22-83218408 Email: jnds_2023@163.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2213517/Vocational_Skills_Competition_1.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2213518/Vocational_Skills_Competition_2.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2213520/The_2nd_Vocational_Skills_Competition_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-2nd-vocational-skills-competition-of-the-peoples-republic-of-china-opens-in-tianjin-301930601.html SOURCE The 2nd Vocational Skills Competition The Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan and Ford Motor Company Fund committing lead gifts totaling $1.5 million DEARBORN, Mich. , Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- For nearly 100 years, The Henry Ford has been a champion of innovation, ingenuity and resourcefulness, using its expertise and unparalleled collections to inspire all to create a better future. The Henry Ford Announces Farm to School Lunch Initiatives Bridging history with innovation, the institution is expanding its education initiatives that focus on the importance of food, agriculture and the environment with the announcement of a Farm to School Lunch Across America program and an endowment for Henry Ford Academy's locally-sourced farm to school lunches. The announcement was made by The Henry Ford's President and CEO, Patricia Mooradian , at the institution's Carver-Carson Society's Moveable Feast held this year in Greenfield Village on September 17 and featured actor and activist Jane Fonda , chef and farm-to-table pioneer Alice Waters and historian Douglas Brinkley . "The Henry Ford is activating its mission and collaborating with a wide-variety of thought leaders and influencers to address the issues of climate change, nutrition and accessibility," said Mooradian. "We are using our collections and historic expertise to help advocate for free, accessible, locally-sourced and cooked from scratch school lunches for every student in America, starting with our own students at Henry Ford Academy. Our farm to school lunch program will now be endowed in perpetuity and perhaps be a model for institutions across the country." The Henry Ford announced a fundraising goal of $7 million to endow the school lunch program for its Henry Ford Academy, the public charter high school that educates 500 9th--12th grade students on its campus. The Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan is committing a gift of $1 million to this endeavor while Ford Motor Company Fund is donating $500,000 to help launch the Farm to School Lunch Across America initiative, a national program during October Farm to School Month in 2024, serving schoolchildren, teachers, and families a nutritious and delicious meal sourced locally and regeneratively. Conceptually, this advocacy effort will focus on the importance of healthy and in-season lunch programs for K-12 students and involve schools across the nation through programming and assemblies. "The Community Foundation congratulates The Henry Ford for leading the farm-to-school lunch program," said Ric DeVore , president, Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan. "We have long supported food access programs in southeast Michigan , and we believe The Henry Ford initiative has the potential to not only improve health outcomes for participants and their families, but to teach others about the power of sustainable food systems." Henry Ford Academy partners with a dozen local farms and organizations to serve its students in-season regional food every day. "More than 34 million Americans including 9 million children face food insecurity," said Mary Culler , president of Ford Fund. "That's why we're so proud to build on our longstanding partnership with The Henry Ford to transform access to fresh, healthy food for school children across the country." About The Henry Ford Located in Dearborn, Michigan , The Henry Ford, a globally recognized destination, fosters inspiration and learning from hands-on encounters with artifacts that represent the most comprehensive collection anywhere focusing on innovation, ingenuity and resourcefulness in America. Its unique venues include Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, Greenfield Village , Ford Rouge Factory Tour, Benson Ford Research Center and Henry Ford Academy, a public charter high school. Together with its online presence at thf.org, its national television series The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation and Invention Convention Worldwide, the growing affiliation of organizations fostering innovation, invention and entrepreneurship in K-12 students, The Henry Ford inspires individuals to unlock their potential and help shape a better future. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-henry-ford-announces-farm-to-school-lunch-initiatives-including-endowment-for-henry-ford-academys-lunch-program-301929971.html SOURCE The Henry Ford SEOUL, South Korea , Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- VUNO Inc., South Korean medical AI company announced that its AI-based cardiac arrest risk management system, VUNO Med-DeepCARS, has proven its clinical validity for the first time through a prospective study utilizing Real World Data(RWD). VUNO announced that the multicenter clinical study paper, which confirms the clinical validity of VUNO Med-DeepCARS through its initial prospective research, has been published in "Critical Care," a leading international journal in intensive care medicine. VUNO Med-DeepCARS is a medical AI device that analyzes four vital signs: respiratory rate, body temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate to predict cardiac arrest within 24 hours in general ward patients. It's Korea's first cardiac arrest prediction AI medical device and is recognized as a breakthrough device by the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety(MFDS). In the study published in Critical Care, the VUNO research team conducted a multicenter study using patient data from general wards at four tertiary medical institutions: Seoul National University Hospital, Bundang Seoul National University Hospital, Inha University Hospital, and Dong-A University Hospital, each with varying sizes, locations, and medical environments. A total of 55,083 patients admitted to general wards in all participating institutions over three months, comparing the in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) prediction accuracy, unexpected intensive care unit transfer (UIT) prediction accuracy, and false alarm rate of VUNO Med-DeepCARS with existing high-risk patient prediction systems like NEWS (National Early Warning Score). The study found that the predictive performance of VUNO Med-DeepCARS had an AUROC score of 0.869, outperforming traditional methods (NEWS 0.767, MEWS 0.756). The number of alarms per 1,000 beds was more than halved compared to the same sensitivity level, proving higher trustworthiness in the alarms leading to actual medical interventions. Furthermore, its effectiveness was apparent across varying patient ages, genders, and times of occurrence. In this study, VUNO Med-DeepCARS displayed exceptional predictive abilities and adaptability in identifying high-risk patients, even in its first prospective research. It consistently performed at the same level as in previous retrospective studies published in renowned international journals. Yeha Lee, CEO of VUNO said, "The significance of this research lies in its successful execution of the first multicenter prospective study with many variables and challenges, thereby reaffirming the consistent predictive performance and versatility of VUNO Med-DeepCARS" and he said, adding "We will continue to enhance the product's credibility in clinical settings by conducting additional prospective research. We are committed to introducing it to more medical settings as essential care to ensure patient safety." View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/vunos-first-ai-based-prospective-study-results-published-in-critical-care-301929916.html SOURCE VUNO Inc. Hyundai's luxury brand Genesis had sold 1.09 million cars by the end of August, seven years and 10 months after it was launched as a separate brand. Genesis played a crucial role in defending the market share of domestic carmakers against imported brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz and gave Hyundai a classier image. But 68 percent of the cars were sold in Korea, while Genesis struggled to establish itself as a bona fide luxury brand abroad. Fourth Paradigm (also known as 4Paradigm) sign is seen at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai, China July 6, 2023. REUTERS/Aly Song/File Photo By Scott Murdoch SYDNEY (Reuters) - Three Chinese firms, led by AI software company Beijing Fourth Paradigm, are aiming to raise up to $280 million in Hong Kong initial public offerings launched on Monday. Beijing Fourth Paradigm, an AI startup, is aiming to raise up to $144 million by selling 18.4 million shares in a price range of HK$55.60 to HK$61.16 each, according to its regulatory filings. Three cornerstone investors, headed by New China Capital Management, have subscribed for about $96.8 million worth of stock, which equates to 70.6% of the IPO, the filings showed. Fourth Paradigm was added to the U.S. "Entity List" this year, which means U.S. suppliers are barred from shipping U.S. technology to it unless they can procure a difficult-to-obtain licence from the Commerce Department. Founded in September 2014, Fourth Paradigm's products have been used in finance, retail, manufacturing, healthcare, energy and power, telecommunications, healthcare and other sectors, according to its website. Separately, Chinese cloud hospital platform Neusoft Xikang is aiming to raise $81 million to $101 million by selling 133.8 million shares, regulatory filings showed. The stock is being sold in a price range of HK$4.76 to HK$5.91 each. ZX Inc, the mobile games operator, is selling 18.97 million shares in a range between HK$11 to HK$14 each to raise between $27 million and $34 million, according to its prospectus. (Reporting by Scott Murdoch in Sydney; Editing by Stephen Coates) ISTANBUL (Reuters) -Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday that Ankara could "part ways" with the European Union if necessary when asked about the contents of a European Parliament report on Turkey. The report, adopted earlier this week, said Turkey's accession process with the 27-member bloc cannot resume under current circumstances and called for the EU to explore "a parallel and realistic framework" for its ties with Ankara. Turkey has been an official candidate to join the EU for 24 years, but accession talks have stalled in recent years over the bloc's concerns about human rights violations and respect for the rule of law. "The EU is trying to break away from Turkey," Erdogan told reporters ahead of a trip to the United States. "We will make our evaluations against these developments and if necessary, we can part ways with the EU." Turkey's Foreign Ministry said earlier this week that the European Parliament report contained unfounded allegations and prejudices and took "a shallow and non-visionary" approach to the country's ties with the EU. (Reporting by Ezgi ErkoyunEditing by Toby Chopra and Helen Popper) A sign outside the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara temple is seen after the killing on its grounds in June 2023 of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada September 18, 2023. REUTERS/Chris Helgren By Kanishka Singh (Reuters) -Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said his nation's security agencies have actively pursued credible allegations of a potential link between the Indian government and the June murder of a Sikh separatist leader and Canadian citizen, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, in Canada. Trudeau's comments on Monday marked the latest strain in relations between Ottawa and New Delhi this year. Canada has the highest population of Sikhs outside their home state of Punjab in India, and the country has been the site of many protests that have irked India. Here are some recent examples of uneasy ties between the two countries: Sept 2023: Canadian Trade Minister Mary Ng postponed a trade mission to India planned for October. Both countries said they paused trade talks after expressing earlier in 2023 they aimed to seal an initial trade deal this year. Bilateral commercial relations between the two countries are worth $100 billion, which includes $70 billion of Canadian portfolio investment, according to Indian figures. Sept 2023: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed strong concerns about protests in Canada against India to Trudeau on the sidelines of the G20 summit in New Delhi. While a Sikh insurgency was suppressed in India in the 1990s, authorities have been wary of any revival of agitation, with a particular focus on small groups of Sikhs in Canada, who support the separatist demand and occasionally stage protests outside Indian embassies. June 2023: India's foreign minister, S. Jaishankar, hit out at Canada for allowing a float in a parade depicting the 1984 assassination of then-Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi by her bodyguards, perceived to be glorification of violence by Sikh separatists. Indira Gandhi was assassinated in 1984 by two Sikh bodyguards after she allowed the storming of the holiest Sikh temple, aimed at flushing out Sikh separatists who demanded an independent homeland to be known as Khalistan. The storming of the temple had angered Sikhs around the world. March 2023: India summoned Canada's High Commissioner to convey concern over pro-Khalistan protesters in Canada who breached the security of India's diplomatic mission and consulates. CONTEXT: Canada is home to an influential Sikh community and Indian leaders say there are some fringe groups there that are still sympathetic to the cause of an independent Sikh state, carved out of India. The Sikh insurgency of the 1980s and 1990s killed some 30,000 people. Sikh militants were blamed for the 1985 bombing of an Air India Boeing 747 flying from Canada to India in which all 329 people on board were killed. In 2018, Trudeau assured India that Canada would not support anyone trying to revive a separatist movement in India but he has repeatedly said he respects the right to free speech and assembly of protesters to demonstrate. (Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by Sandra Maler) FILE PHOTO: German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius looks on the day his counterparts Hanno Pevkur of Estonia and Inara Murniece of Latvia sign a framework contract with German arms maker Diehl Defence for the purchase of their air defence system IRIS-T S BERLIN (Reuters) - German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius will not take part at the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting at German Ramstein U.S. Air Base on Tuesday due to COVID-19 infection, a spokesperson for the ministry said on Monday. The meeting of allies assisting Ukraine has been highly anticipated and comes as the United States explores the shipment of ATACMS longer-range missiles packed with cluster bombs to Ukraine. Kyiv has also been pushing Germany to send similar Taurus missiles that could give Ukraine the ability to cause significant damage deeper within Russian-occupied territory, but Berlin has repeatedly said it will only act in concert with Washington on arms deliveries. (Reporting by Riham Alkousaa and Sabine Siebold; Editing by Bill Berkrot) BUDAPEST (Reuters) -Hungary is not sure it needs to approve Sweden's bid to join NATO, the parliament speaker told local television late on Sunday, potentially signalling further delays to the process. Hungary's approval has been stranded in parliament since July 2022, amid concerns over criticism by Swedish politicians of Hungary's democratic backsliding. "It is not sure we need to approve this bid," parliament speaker Laszlo Kover, a senior lawmaker of the ruling Fidesz party, told HirTV, referring to Sweden. His comments follow a letter Hungary's foreign minister wrote to his Swedish counterpart last week in which he again raised concerns over what he called "biased and unfair" accusations by some Swedish politicians against the Hungarian government. Sweden applied for NATO membership last year in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine and most alliance members quickly ratified its bid. Turkey and Hungary, however, have yet to ratify Sweden's bid, and both countries have said they closely coordinating their stance on the matter. Hungary's parliament will reconvene later this month, but it is not clear yet whether a debate and vote on the Swedish ratification would be on the agenda. (Reporting by Krisztina Than; Editing by Muralikumar Anantharaman and Miral Fahmy) FILE PHOTO: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) logo is seen outside the headquarters building in Washington, U.S., September 4, 2018. REUTERS/Yuri Gripas/File Photo By Andrea Shalal WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank and Morocco on Monday announced the annual meetings of the two global institutions would proceed in October in Marrakech, despite a recent nearby earthquake that killed more than 2,900 people. The meeting will take place from Oct. 9-15 in Marrakech, just 45 miles (72 km) from the site of the 6.8-magnitude earthquake on Sept. 8, with some changes to adapt content "to the circumstances," World Bank President Ajay Banga, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva and Morocco's Economy Minister Nadia Fettah Alaoui said in a joint statement. Senior IMF and World Bank officials made the decision, first reported by Reuters, at the direct request of the Moroccan authorities who had pressed the global institutions to proceed with the gathering which is expected to bring some 10,000-15,000 to the Moroccan tourist hub. "As we look ahead to the meetings, it is of utmost importance that we conduct them in a way that does not hamper the relief efforts under way and that is respectful to the victims and the Moroccan people," the three officials said. "At this very difficult time, we believe that the Annual Meetings also provide an opportunity for the international community to stand by Morocco and its people, who have once again shown resilience in the face of tragedy. We also remain committed to ensuring the safety of all participants. Georgieva told Reuters on Friday that Morocco's prime minister told her it would be "quite devastating" for Morocco's hospitality sector if the meetings were moved to a different location. (Reporting by Andrea Shalal; Editing by Chris Reese) NEW DELHI (Reuters) - The Indian government on Monday cleared a bill that guarantees the reservation of 33% seats for women in India's lower house of parliament and state legislative assemblies, according to four local TV news channels. The Women's Reservation Bill was approved by the cabinet in New Delhi and will be tabled during the current special session of parliament called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, India Today and NDTV newschannels reported. Government officials and ministers who attended the cabinet meeting, which was led by Modi, were not immediately available to confirm or deny the approval of the bill that was first introduced in 1996. Women account for almost half of India's 950 million registered voters but make for only 15% of parliament and about 10% of state legislatures, pushing the world's largest democracy to the bottom of global rankings on gender parity in legislatures. Successive governments have sought to address this since the mid-1990s by trying to make a law that blocks a third of seats for women at the national and state levels. (Reporting by Rupam Jain, Nigam Prusty, Editing by William Maclean) FILE PHOTO: The logo for Morgan Stanley is seen on the trading floor at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in Manhattan, New York City, U.S., August 3, 2021. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly/File Photo NEW YORK (Reuters) - Morgan Stanley was sued on Monday for at least $750 million by private equity firms that claimed they were defrauded in an investment with a high-speed rail company. In a complaint filed in a New York state court in Manhattan, affiliates of Certares Management and Knighthead Capital Management accused Morgan Stanley of breach of contract and fraud for unlawfully restructuring a transaction in which they had invested in a loan to Brightline Holdings. Brightline, backed by private equity firm Fortress Investment Group and also a defendant, operates a rail system in Florida and is developing a rail line between Los Angeles and Las Vegas. The plaintiffs said Morgan Stanley convinced them to invest about $281 million, but hid details of a Brightline preferred share transaction that should have required the loan be prepaid at a "make-whole" amount they estimated at $750 million. Morgan Stanley was also accused of having swapped out one document with the signature of a Certares affiliate, to make it seem like the affiliate had read and agreed to the preferred share transaction. The plaintiffs said Morgan Stanley's actions were intended to position it for "lucrative investment-banking business" from Brightline and Fortress, including municipal bond transactions that could generate "sizeable" fees. In a statement, Morgan Stanley said "the firm does not believe the claims have merit and will defend itself vigorously." Brightline did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The case is CK Opportunities Fund I LP et al v Morgan Stanley Senior Funding Inc et al, New York State Supreme Court, New York County. (Reporting by Tatiana Bautzer and Jonathan Stempel, Editing by Rosalba O'Brien) FILE PHOTO: A logo of Huawei Technologies is seen at its exhibition space, at the Viva Technology conference dedicated to innovation and startups at Porte de Versailles exhibition center in Paris, France June 15, 2022. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier/File Photo By Sergio Goncalves LISBON (Reuters) - Portugal's telecom watchdog said on Monday it is working with operators to implement a high-level resolution which effectively bars Huawei's equipment from the country's 5G mobile networks, despite legal objections from the Chinese company. The CSSC council is the Portuguese prime minister's consultative body and its resolution, although it did not name Huawei, was seen as a blow to efforts by the Chinese group to enter standalone networks in Portugal's 5G market and extend contracts on 4G platforms on which the new technology is based. Huawei filed a lawsuit with a Lisbon court against the resolution at the end of August, seeking "protection of its legitimate interests and legal rights under the law". Portugal's main operators, Altice, NOS and Vodafone have already said they will not use Huawei equipment in 5G core networks, amid European and U.S. concerns that Chinese involvement in critical infrastructure could compromise security. Beijing and Huawei reject such suggestions. ANACOM president Joao Cadete de Matos said that the telecoms watchdog, which is responsible for implementing the resolution, "will execute all decisions that are taken regarding security, not only within the national but also the European framework". "It is work that is ongoing and we hope that it will be carried out successfully. We can assure the Portuguese that we are also working together with the operators", he added. With reference to the Huawei lawsuit, Matos told a press conference that "it is necessary to wait for its development, but the most important thing is that ANACOM is working in an articulated, considered and rigorous way to fulfil what the country expects". Portugal's secretary of state for digitalisation, Mario Campolargo, who chairs the CSSC, earlier told Reuters that the resolution reached in May was based on an independent, strict security assessment following European Union guidelines, and did not specifically target Chinese suppliers. Matos said that there is "close cooperation" between the government and ANACOM. (Reporting by Sergio Goncalves; Editing by Alexander Smith) (Reuters) - Russia launched a missile attack on Ukraine's second largest city, Kharkiv, on Monday, striking an industrial district, Mayor Ihor Terekhov said. "There is information about hitting an industrial zone in the city's Kholodnohirsky district," Terekhov said on Telegram. Terekhov provided no further information on casualties or damage. Telegram channels reported explosions in the city. Reuters could not independently verify the reports. (Reporting by Ron Popeski an Oleksandr Kozhukhar; editing by Jonathan Oatis and Chris Reese) In a keynote speech, Yoon is expected to condemn North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's weapons talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. President Yoon Suk-yeol boarded a plane on Monday to attend the 78th UN General Assembly in New York. During his weeklong trip he will also meet face to face with leaders from over 30 countries to promote Busan's bid to host the World Expo in 2030. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese Vice President Han Zheng shake hands while posing for photos, Monday, Sept. 18, 2023, in New York, U.S. Julia Nikhinson/Pool via REUTERS By Humeyra Pamuk and Michael Martina NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng on Monday on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, the latest in a series of meetings aimed at reducing tensions between the world's two largest economies. In a statement after the meeting, the U.S. State Department said the talks involved "a candid and constructive discussion." The two agreed to maintain open lines of communication and discussed Russia's invasion of Ukraine, North Korea and the Taiwan Strait, the department added. The talks between Blinken and Han could help set the stage for a meeting between U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping later this year. They followed 12 hours of meetings last weekend between White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Malta. "The world expects us to responsibly manage our relationship," Blinken said in brief remarks at the beginning of his meeting with Han. "The United States is committed to doing just that," he added. "From the perspective of the United States, face-to-face diplomacy is the best way to deal with areas where we disagree, and also the best way to explore areas of cooperation between us," Blinken said. Blinken, U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Biden climate envoy John Kerry have traveled to China this year to thaw relations and ensure continued communication between the two countries amid tensions that flared after the U.S. military shot down a Chinese surveillance balloon that traveled over the United States. Biden this month expressed disappointment that Xi had skipped a summit of Group of 20 leaders in India, but said he would "get to see him." The next likely opportunity for Biden to hold talks with Xi is an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in San Francisco in November, where U.S. aides for months have hoped to stage such a meeting. Neither Blinken nor Han in their remarks explicitly mentioned whether such a meeting would materialize. "Currently, China-U.S. relations face many difficulties and challenges," Han told Blinken, noting that China hoped the U.S. would make efforts to implement the consensus reached by the two countries' leaders and promote the stable development of relations. "The world needs stable and healthy China-U.S. relations," Han said. The U.S. and China are at odds over issues ranging from Taiwan to trade, fentanyl and human rights. Critics of the Biden administration have questioned its strategy of engaging China, warning that a failure to push back on provocations, including the recent China-linked hacking of senior U.S. officials' email, could embolden Beijing. Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Chris Wray told a conference on Monday that China has a cyberespionage program so vast that it is bigger than all of its major competitors combined. Ryan Hass, a China expert at the Brookings Institution, said the pace of high-level exchanges between Washington and Beijing suggested that efforts were "purposeful" and not just part of relationship management. "I expect both sides are working to set the stage for a productive meeting between both leaders in November," Hass said. (Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk and Michael Martina; additional reporting by Kanishka Singh; Editing by Don Durfee, Sonali Paul and Sandra Maler) FILE PHOTO: Ukrainian flag is covered with grains in this picture illustration taken May 9, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo (Reuters) - Ukraine has filed complaints with the World Trade Organization (WTO) against Poland, Slovakia and Hungary over their bans on food imports from Ukraine, a senior government minister said in Kyiv on Monday. Yulia Svyrydenko, first deputy prime minister, said Ukraine saw such restrictions as a violation of the EU countries' international obligations. "For us, it is critically important to prove that individual member-states cannot ban imports of Ukrainian goods. And that is why we have filed suits through the WTO," Svyrydenko said in a statement on a government website. "At the same time, we hope that these states will rescind their restrictions and there will be no need for us to settle our relations in the courts over long period of time," she said. "We need solidarity with them and to defend the interests of farmers." The three countries announced their own restrictions on Ukrainian grain imports on Friday after the European Commission decided not to extend its ban on imports into Ukraine's five EU eastern European member states. (Reporting by Yuliia Dysa; Editing by Andrew Heavens, Ron Popeski and Leslie Adler) FILE PHOTO: Haitians work on the construction site of a water channel from the Massacre river, a river shared between Haiti and the Dominican Republic, after Dominican President Luis Abinader announced a total border shutdown amid a conflict over the cons By Sarah Morland (Reuters) -The president of the Dominican Republic said he would meet United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Wednesday to discuss a call from a U.N. expert to allow humanitarian supplies to pass through his country's shuttered border with Haiti. President Luis Abinader said he had not received a formal request to do so and would need more details, after U.N. expert William O'Neill said stopping essential goods such as food and medicine crossing the border would be "dire" for Haiti. Abinader, who is seeking reelection in May, announced a total border shutdown on Thursday over the construction of a canal from a shared river he argues violates a 1929 treaty. The Dominican Republic says the canal is being built by non-government agents, but has called on Haiti's government - which is facing escalating gang warfare and a worsening humanitarian crisis - to halt construction. Haiti has condemned the border shutdown and called on the Dominican Republic to safeguard Haitians in its country. The country has deported tens of thousands fleeing the crisis back to Haiti, despite repeated U.N. criticisms. 'LIVES AT STAKE' Santo Domingo has said it will not resume talks until construction on the canal is stopped, and that it is planning to build two dams which could "significantly affect" Haiti if the treaty is not active. O'Neill had earlier on Monday called for the countries to seek international arbitration if necessary. "Lives are at stake," he said in a statement. "Directors of medical clinics in Haiti have told me that they will not be able to care for their patients if access to the Dominican Republic is cut off," he added. The Dominican foreign ministry responded rejecting O'Neill's "biased and unfortunate" statements. "It is not reasonable that our country should ensure the social well-being of Haitians," it said, adding it "took note" of the request to allow humanitarian aid to pass though work on the canal must stop for an "immediate and definitive solution." Several aid groups in Haiti have stopped operations amid dwindling funds and dangers for staff and patients. Abinader, who is attending the U.N. General Assembly in New York, added he would meet his Kenyan counterpart on Tuesday as the African nation mulls leading a U.N.-backed multinational force to help Haiti's under-gunned police fight gangs. (Reporting by Sarah Morland and Carolina Pulice in Mexico CityEditing by Bill Berkrot and Lincoln Feast.) An American flag waves outside the U.S. Department of Justice Building in Washington, U.S., December 15, 2020. REUTERS/Al Drago/File photo By Jonathan Stempel NEW YORK (Reuters) - A Russian man who has lived in Hong Kong has been taken into U.S. custody and charged with smuggling large quantities of American-made, military-grade microelectronics to Russia, the U.S. Department of Justice said on Monday. Maxim Marchenko, 51, and two unnamed Russian co-conspirators were accused of using his shell companies to conceal the fraudulent procurement of so-called OLED micro-displays. The case was coordinated through the Justice Department's Task Force KleptoCapture, which was created to enforce sanctions, export restrictions and other measures in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. According to federal prosecutors in Manhattan, OLED micro-displays can be used in rifle scopes, night-vision goggles, thermal optics and other weapons systems. Prosecutors said Marchenko and his co-conspirators falsely represented that the dual-use technology - meaning it had civilian and military applications - was being sent to China, Hong Kong and elsewhere for use in electron microscopes for medical research. They also said Marchenko's shell companies funneled more than $1.6 million to the U.S. to support the scheme, which ran from May 2022 to August 2023. The complaint quotes Marchenko telling a co-conspirator on June 29, 2022 about how the White House had a day earlier added five Chinese companies to a trade blacklist for allegedly supporting Russia's military and defense industry. "So we'll be even more careful," the co-conspirator allegedly responded. Assistant Attorney General Matthew Olsen of the Justice Department's national security division said the case "reinforces the department's commitment to protect U.S. security and counter Russian aggression in Ukraine through the vigorous enforcement of our export control and sanctions laws." Marchenko was charged with seven criminal counts including wire fraud, smuggling, money laundering and four conspiracy counts, and could if convicted face several decades in prison. At a Monday hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Andrew Krause in White Plains, New York, Marchenko agreed to be detained, but he is expected to seek bail, court records show. A federal public defender appointed to temporarily represent Marchenko declined to comment. On Aug. 31, federal prosecutors in Manhattan charged Arthur Petrov, a dual Russian-German citizen, with also smuggling microelectronics technology with military uses to Russia. The case is U.S. v. Marchenko, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, No. 23-mj-06181. (Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York; Editing by Marguerita Choy) FILE PHOTO: U.S. flag and TikTok logo are seen in this illustration taken, June 2, 2023. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo By David Shepardson (Reuters) -A group of 18 state attorneys general said on Monday they backed Montana's effort to ban Chinese-owned short video app TikTok, urging a U.S. judge to reject legal challenges ahead of the Jan. 1 effective date. The state attorneys general led by Virginia and including Georgia, Alaska, Utah, Indiana, Nebraska, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky and South Dakota said the suits from TikTok and users should be rejected "because TikTok intentionally engages in deceptive business practices which induce individuals to share sensitive personal information that can be easily accessed by the Chinese Communist Party and because TikToks platform harms children in Montana." TikTok, which is owned by China's ByteDance, did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday, and filed a suit in May seeking to block the first-of-its-kind U.S. state ban on several grounds, arguing it violates the First Amendment free speech rights of the company and users. A hearing on TikTok's request for a preliminary injunction is set for Oct. 12. The states say TikTok, which is used by more than 150 million Americans, has faced growing calls from U.S. lawmakers for a nationwide ban over concerns about possible Chinese government influence. Efforts to pass legislation to give the Biden administration more power to ban or crack down on TikTok have stalled. Last month, Attorney General Austin Knudsen, a Republican, said the state legislature and governor "did the right thing in prohibiting TikTok from operating in Montana as long as it is under the control of a foreign adversary." In March, lawmakers accused TikTok of serving harmful content and inflicting "emotional distress" on young users. TikTok says it "has not shared, and would not share, U.S. user data with the Chinese government, and has taken substantial measures to protect the privacy and security of TikTok users." Montana could impose fines of $10,000 for each violation by TikTok. The law does not impose penalties on individual TikTok users. TikTok estimates 380,000 people in Montana use the video service, or more than a third of the state's 1.1 million people. Former U.S. President Donald Trump in 2020 sought to bar new downloads of TikTok but a series of court decisions blocked the ban from taking effect. (Reporting by David ShepardsonEditing by Chris Reese) U.S. soldiers launch a Thunderhead High-Altitude Balloon System during the annual Balikatan drills at Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, Philippines, April 1, 2022. (Seth Robson/Stars and Stripes) The Army is simulating high-altitude balloon flights in Japan this month as part of a plan to expand intelligence gathering in the Indo-Pacific region. The 1st Multi-Domain Effects Battalion, participating in this months Orient Shield exercise alongside Japanese troops on the northern island of Hokkaido, has been experimenting with balloons, according to battalion commander Lt. Col. Joseph Mroszczyk. Were the only force structure in the Army that has high-altitude people whose job it is to operate these capabilities, he told Stars and Stripes on Saturday at Camp Zama, home of U.S. Army Japan outside Tokyo. Balloon operations are only being simulated during Orient Shield, which began Sept. 14 and ends Saturday, but the battalions high-altitude platoon has actually launched them in the United States, Mroszczyk said. Army Lt. Col. Joseph Mroszczyk, commander of the 1st Multi-Domain Effects Battalion, poses at Camp Zama, Japan, Sept. 16, 2023. (Seth Robson/Stars and Stripes) The battalion, based at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., has flown several types of balloons to extend the [sensor] network depth, he said, adding that high-altitude operations take place between 60,000 and 100,000 feet. Balloons arent new to the battlefield, he said, noting the historic use of the aircraft as military observation platforms. Small, modern balloons tested by the military can be deployed without much effort. The trick is to launch them from the right place to take advantage of the wind, Mroszczyk said. In February, Japans Ministry of Defense announced that balloons spotted over the country between 2019 and 2021 were presumed to have been Chinese spy craft. That month, the U.S. military shot down four objects over U.S. and Canadian airspace, including one that, officials say, was a Chinese spy balloon. In April 2022, during the annual Balikatan exercise in the Philippines, the Army launched a Thunderhead High-Altitude Balloon System, Aviation Week reported Aug. 14. Thunderhead Balloon Systems have made long duration and navigational stratospheric missions a proven reality, South Dakota-based manufacturer Aerostar states on its website. By leveraging directional wind patterns at high altitudes, Aerostars Thunderhead Balloon Systems offer groundbreaking capabilities for navigation and persistence over areas of interest. Mroszczyks battalion, which falls under U.S. Army Pacifics 1st Multi-Domain Task Force, is building up to include 500 soldiers next year, he said. The battalion includes sub-units focused on intelligence, information, cyber, electronic warfare and space operations. An extended-range sensing and effects company includes platoons that fly unmanned aircraft and high-altitude balloons, he said. Balloons are likely to be part of the Armys sensor mix but there wont likely be many, according to Grant Newsham, a retired Marine colonel and senior researcher with the Japan Forum for Strategic Studies in Tokyo. They are a useful system especially for wide area surveillance and are fairly easy to deploy and relatively cheap, he said in an email Saturday. A Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II performs aerial maneuvers Aug. 21, 2023, during an airshow practice at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C. (Kyle Baskin/U.S. Marine Corps) Military officials in South Carolina were searching for a missing Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II stealth fighter jet after its pilot ejected near Charleston on Sunday afternoon. The search for the missing jet from the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing based at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C., was continuing Monday morning, a Marine spokesman said. MCAS Beaufort Marines and personnel from Joint Base Charleston were conducting the search, which was focused on two lakes in the city of North Charleston, the Corps said. The pilot safely ejected about 2 p.m. local time from the jet after experiencing a mishap in the air, according to a Joint Base Charleston statement. Military officials declined Monday to provide further information about the cause of the incident and they said it was under investigation. The pilot, assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501, was transferred to a hospital where he was in stable condition after he ejected over a neighborhood in North Charleston, according to the Joint Base Charleston statement. Charleston is about 70 miles northeast of MCAS Beaufort. The incident occurred during a routine training flight from MCAS Beaufort, Marine officials said. A second F-35B flying with the now-missing fighter jet landed safely at Joint Base Charleston during the incident. The ongoing search is focused on Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion, both north of Joint Base Charleston, installation officials said. The decision to focus in those areas is based on the jets last-known position, the officials said. Military officials were asking for the publics help in locating the jet. Anyone with information about the jets location is asked to call the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Public Affairs Office at 252-466-3827. The oiler USNS John Lewis pulls away from the USS Canberra after refueling the ship in the Pacific Ocean on June 13, 2023. A future John Lewis-class oiler will be named after American abolitionist and social activist Harriet Tubman, Navy officials announced Saturday. (Mark D. Faram/U.S. Navy) A second U.S. Navy ship will bear the name of a celebrated abolitionist who was the first African American woman to formally serve in the military during the Civil War, Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro recently announced. The future USNS Harriet Tubman follows a tradition of naming John Lewis-class oilers after civil rights activists, Del Toro said in statement Sunday. The first ship to bear Tubmans name was a Liberty vessel built during World War II, the Navy said. Her legacy deserves our nations continued recognition, and our fleet benefits from having her name emblazoned on the hull of one of our great ships, Del Toro said in the statement. Del Toro made the announcement during a celebration at the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center in Church Creek, Md. The event commemorated the anniversary of Tubmans initial decision to seek her freedom on Sept. 17, 1849. After her escape, Tubman helped at least 70 men, women and children escape slavery while conducting them along the Underground Railroad, a network of safe houses and passages that led to freedom. An undated, black-and-white photo shows Harriet Tubman after the Civil War. Tubman was the most famous conductor of enslaved people to freedom along the Underground Railroad. (National Archives) With courage and fortitude, Tubman served as a Union spy, scout, nurse and cook during the Civil War, according to the statement. She helped plan and execute a raid by Black Union troops that successfully freed more than 750 slaves, the Navy said. She continued to advocate after the war for the rights of African Americans and women, speaking alongside Susan B. Anthony at several womens suffrage events. She died in 1913 and was buried at Fort Hill Cemetery in Auburn, N.Y. USNS Harriet Tubman is the ninth ship of its class and will be sponsored by the abolitionists great-great-great grandniece, Tina Wyatt, Del Toro said. The class and its lead ship are named for the late civil rights leader and former U.S. Rep. John Lewis of Georgia. The oilers, which can carry up to 162,000 barrels of oil and have sizable dry cargo capacity, support the Navys carrier strike groups, according to the statement. An artifact from the USS Maine, recently donated to the curatorial collection of Arlington National Cemetery, is paired with a historical stereographic image of the wrecked battleship. ( Elizabeth Fraser, U.S. Army/Arlington National Cemetery) For 20 years, a weathered wood and iron artifact was on display at a tiny museum in Park Ridge, N.J. A small sign stated it was purported to be part of the mast from the USS Maine, the U.S. Navy ship that exploded in Havana harbor in 1898 and ignited the Spanish-American War. The story went that the worn three-foot-long spar with saw marks at one end had been discovered at a local garage sale, and then donated to the Pascack Historical Society. No one remembered the name of the person who had gifted it. Most at the museum doubted it was even authentic. The history was a little vague, recalled Kristin Beuscher, the societys president. Somebody walked in and told us they had bought this artifact. The person selling it said it had been given to him by a friend who had been a diver on the wreck of the USS Maine. The donor believed it should be in a museum, so he brought it to us. There was no provenance to back it up. It was just a story. Two years ago, Christopher Kersting stared at the display case and wondered if the tale was true. The retired history teacher, who was planning to become a docent at the museum, decided to look into it. With Beuschers approval, Kersting began a quest to see what he could learn. It was a labor of love, he said. My grandfather was an 18-year-old in the Army in the Spanish-American War, so the artifact caught my attention when I saw it. Its provenance was questionable at best. Something told me, Lets find out. Kersting first contacted Peter McSherry, who edits a website on the history of the Spanish-American War. McSherry suggested contacting the U.S. Navy, which in turn said it would pass Kerstings photos and information along to Arlington National Cemetery the military graveyard in Arlington, Va., that is home to the USS Maine Memorial. The aft, or rear, mast of the USS Maine had been removed from the sunken ship during salvage operations and arrived in 1912 in Arlington, where it was installed on a granite base for the memorial to the 261 sailors and Marines who died as a result of the blast. Most are buried at the monument, located on Sigsbee Drive, named for Capt. Charles Dwight Sigsbee, who commanded the ship and survived the disaster. How the heavy cruiser was destroyed remains a mystery. The USS Maine arrived in Havana Harbor in January 1898 to protect American interests during the Cuban war for independence from Spain. What happened the night of Feb. 15 is still debated. Historians and researchers differ on whether it was a Spanish mine or a fire in the vessels coal bunker that caused the massive explosion. Regardless, the incident fueled by sensational journalism accusing Spain of a premeditated attack sparked calls for retaliation and led to a declaration of war by the U.S. Congress. Shouts of Remember the Maine! drove enlistments and led to the deployment of U.S. military forces, who quickly defeated the Spanish and took possession of Cuba, the Philippines and other territories. Kerstings large file of photos and documents ended up on the desk of Roderick Ganier, chief curator at Arlington National Cemeterys museum. He read through Kerstings documents about the small wood spar. We were offered this piece of wood that I had a gut feeling was authentic but had to be sure, Ganier said. To determine whether the spar could have been part of the USS Maines mast, Ganier turned to Steve Whitaker, a retired Navy captain and an expert on the ships history and construction. He traveled to New Jersey to examine the artifact. It was an interesting hunt, Whitaker said. It was like looking for a leaf on a tree in a forest in a preserve on a continent far away. Whitaker soon determined that the masts wood and iron fittings matched the materials used to construct the armored battleship at the Brooklyn Navy Yard in 1889. He consulted records and plans in the archives of the New York Public Library to confirm his suspicions. He then examined paint flecks on the artifact. The USS Maine was originally painted white, then repainted tan and finally covered in black paint. There are definitely three types of paint remains on this relic, he said. Theres a black oil-based overcoat with a lead-based coat underneath that was sort of a straw color. Underneath that there are remnants of a whitewash paint. Whitaker then started examining photos of the USS Maine from before and after the explosion. Specifically, he looked at images that showed the aft mast and how it changed over time. The breakthrough came when he found an 1899 photo of the wreck in Havana harbor with the proof he was looking for. There is a narrow window of time when the ship is being taken apart, so we see the different stages of salvage, Whitaker said. The cross member of this spar is on the mast until we get to this photo, where its gone. You can see it was cut off. Evidence in hand, Ganier and Whitaker went back to the Pascack Historical Society. Beuscher was elated by the news. Then, she realized she had a decision to make. The artifact really didnt belong in our collection, she said. Our museum focuses on local history. We could have sold this to a collector and made a lot of money but decided to do the right thing. The best place for it was at Arlington National Cemetery, where it could be properly preserved and displayed. In March, Ganier and Whitaker traveled to New Jersey to accept a gift of the spar from Beuscher and Kersting at the Park Ridge museum. In late September, Arlington National Cemetery staff will hand over the artifact to conservators, who will undertake a multiyear effort to protect it from further deterioration. It was exciting, Kersting said. When they came to take formal possession, it was a big event. One of the historians told us, We rarely get to find things like this. Its kind of like Christmas morning. For Whitaker, the hunt isnt over. He continues to search archives and records to try to determine who cut the spar from the mast which in turn could reveal how it got from Havana harbor to a garage sale in New Jersey. Both Navy divers and private salvage operators worked on dismantling the USS Maine. He has narrowed his list down to a few suspects. Ive been working on a project with the USS Maine for a long time, Whitaker said. Its been a long process and interest. This is just one more piece of the puzzle. This photo released by Yad Vashem, World Holocaust Remembrance Center, shows German Nazis and civilians watch ransacking of Jewish property during Kristallnacht intake most likely in the town of Fuerth, Germany, on Nov. 10, 1938. The photos were taken by Nazi photographers during the pogrom in the city of Nuremberg and the nearby town of Fuerth. They wound up in the possession of a Jewish American serviceman who served in Germany during World War II. (Yad Vashem) A newly revealed letter from the Vatican archives suggests that World War II-era Pope Pius XII was aware thousands of Jews were being killed in gas chambers in occupied Poland, undercutting earlier Vatican arguments justifying the popes wartime silence on the Holocaust. Following decades of pressure from Jewish organizations and historians, the Vatican in 2020 opened its secret archives on the wartime pope, who headed the Catholic Church from 1939 to 1958. Pius XII has since become one of the most controversial pontiffs for not publicly condemning the Nazis during the war, with critics dubbing him Hitlers Pope. Others, including the Vatican, have argued his diplomacy saved lives in part by preventing a Nazi backlash. A newly unveiled document has added fuel to the debate. Its a German letter sent by a German Jesuit member of the anti-Nazi resistance, Father Lother Koenig, and addressed to the popes trusted private secretary Rev. Robert Leiber. In the letter dated Dec. 14, 1942, Koenig wrote that up to 6,000 people, above all Poles and Jews, were dying every day in SS-furnaces at the Nazi-run Bezec concentration camp in what was then occupied Poland. Reported this week by Italian daily Corriere Della Sera, the letter was discovered by Vatican archivist Giovanni Coco, who described it as further evidence of a flow of explicit and detailed news on Nazi crimes to the Holy See. From March to December 1942, about 450,000 Jews, mostly from Poland, were killed at the Belzec concentration camp, according to the website of the museum and memorial in Belzec. In the years since Pius XIIs papacy ended, critics have scrutinized his action, or supposed inaction, during the war. Holocaust survivors have lobbied to freeze his sainthood process. When the millions of pages in the Pius archives were opened in 2020, Pope Francis said the Church was not afraid of history and that Piuss papacy had moments of grave difficulties, tormented decisions of human and Christian prudence, that to some could appear as reticence, according to PBS. In his 2022 book The Pope at War, historian and anthropologist David Kertzer argued that Pius put the Catholic Church ahead of moral leadership, fearful that hostility toward Hitler might cause the countries to break with the church. Pius XII had also initially thought he could negotiate with Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler and temper Nazi hatred with diplomacy, the author wrote. While the pope acted carefully amid initial concerns that Axis powers may eventually control Europe, Pius XII never changed his approach even as evidence, and pleas for the Vatican to take a stand, mounted. As a moral leader, Pius XII must be judged a failure, the historian wrote. Samsung Medical Center in Seoul has been rated the world's fifth best cancer treatment hospital and the best in Asia for the second year. Newsweek magazine surveyed 300 hospitals in 12 fields in 28 countries, and Samsung Medical Center came fifth in the field of oncology. The hospital also ranked eighth in urology and ninth in gastroenterology. CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa A Japanese court handed a U.S. soldier on Okinawa a two-year, suspended sentence for beating a bar owner unconscious with a beer mug. Pfc. Dalton Housenick, 23, pleaded guilty on Sept. 9 in Naha District Court to assault resulting in injury for the Dec. 18 beating of a Yomitan village bar owner, District Court Judge Takashi Kato said at Fridays sentencing hearing. The unnamed bar owner in his 50s was hospitalized and suffered two lost teeth and a broken collarbone, according to the indictment. There is no reason to justify the defendants actions, Kato said after passing the sentence. He called the assault serious. The night of the assault, Housenick arrived at the unnamed bar past midnight and drank with other customers and staff for several hours until only he and the bar owner remained, according to the indictment. An argument ensued; Housenick pushed the bar owner to the floor and beat him unconscious with the mug, the indictment said. The assault occurred sometime between 5:41 a.m. and 11:26 a.m., when the owner regained consciousness and called police. Police found the owner unconscious on the floor. Housenick called bar employees later that day and said the bar owner said something that upset him, according to the indictment. Housenick faced up to 15 years in prison or a $3,300 fine, according to the Japanese penal code. Prosecutors had sought two years imprisonment. Kato suspended Housenicks sentence for three years, meaning he will likely not serve jail time unless convicted again in Japan. Housenick admitted guilt and had already paid just over $6,500 to the victim in compensation, Kato said, explaining the suspended sentence. Housenick does not plan to appeal the sentence, his attorney, Kotaro Ito, said after the hearing. Details about Housenicks Army service were not addressed at the hearing. The 10th Support Group at Torii Station did not immediately respond Monday to a request seeking comment. Suga of BTS attends the 64th Annual GRAMMY Awards at MGM Grand Garden Arena on April 3, 2022, in Las Vegas. (Frazer Harrison, Getty Images for The Recording Academy/TNS) (Tribune News Service) BTS star Suga will begin his mandatory military service in South Korea, and it seems the groups dedicated ARMY fan base may need to give him some space. Bighit Music, the groups label, said announced in a news release Monday that Suga the second eldest BTS member will begin his required service on Friday. The label said there will not be any official events marking the start of his enlistment or his first day at training camp. We kindly ask fans to refrain from visiting SUGA at his workplace during the period of his service, the statement continued. Fans have previously gathered at military bases to see off BTS members. Bighit added: Please convey your warm regards and encouragement in your hearts only. Last month, Bighit announced that Suga, 30, took steps to terminate his enlistment postponement. South Korean law requires all able-bodied men to complete about 18 months of military service between the ages of 18 and 35. The seven BTS members range in age from 25 to 30. Bighit Music announced in October 2022 that BTS members would be joining the army. BIGHIT MUSIC has focused to the milestone moment when it would be possible to respect the needs of the country and for these healthy young men to serve with their countrymen, and thats now, the label said in an October statement. To help the BTS stars carry out their mandatory service, Bighit also said that the musicians will take a break from group work and pursue solo endeavors. BTS will reunite in 2025, Bighit said in October. Suga, born Min Yoon-gi, is the third BTS artist to fulfill his military commitment. In December 2022, the eldest BTS member, Jin, became the first to begin his enlistment. According to the Associated Press, Jin and then-new conscripts took part in five weeks of basic military training at the base, including rifle shooting, grenade throwing and marching practices. J-Hope, 29, began his service in April. With multiple BTS members now in the South Korean military, Bighit urged devoted fans to keep an eye out for unauthorized tours or package products that illegally use the artists intellectual property and said it would take appropriate measures against such efforts. We ask for your continued love and support for SUGA until he completes his service and returns, the statement concluded. Our company will also strive to provide all the support he needs during this time. Times staff writer Jonah Valdez contributed to this report. 2023 Los Angeles Times. Visit at latimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Turkish soldiers fire the AK40-GL Bombaatar during exercise Steadfast Defender near Cincu, Romania, May 23, 2021. NATO officials are planning to bring together more than 40,000 troops for the exercise in 2024. (Brett Dodge/U.S. Navy) NATOs largest military drill since the end of the Cold War is being planned for 2024, bringing together more than 40,000 troops for an exercise stretching from the Baltics to Poland and Germany, according to alliance officials. Steadfast Defender will be a testing ground for practicing intertwined NATO and national defense plans, Adm. Rob Bauer, NATOs military chief, said Saturday. A new era of collective defense is upon us, Bauer said following a meeting of NATO defense chiefs. He called the exercises the largest in the post-Cold War era. The meeting was held in Oslo, Norway, and was attended by Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs. Gen. Eirik Kristoffersen, Norways defense chief, said Steadfast Defender will serve as a sort of umbrella training. An important element of that is the biggest exercise is to be held in the Nordic countries ever, Nordic Response, in 2024, he said. Five Nordic countries will host multiple alliance members, including new arrival Finland, with a focus on integrating them into NATOs revised defense plans, Kristoffersen said of Nordic Response. U.S. soldiers launch defensive attacks during Steadfast Defender in Cincu, Romania, June 1, 2021. The first iteration of the exercise in 2021 had 4,000 troops. The exercise is expected to grow to include more than 40,000 troops in 2024. (Jabari Clyburn/U.S. Army) HMS Queen Elizabeth and USS The Sullivans join ships of NATO's Standing Maritime Groups 1 and 2 on May 28, 2021, in the Atlantic Ocean. The rendezvous was part of Steadfast Defender 21, an exercise designed to test NATOs ability to rapidly deploy forces to the coast of Portugal and the Black Sea region. (Unaisi Luke/Royal Navy) A Spanish soldier holds a position near Cincu, Romania, during exercise Steadfast Defender, May 24, 2021. NATO will launch another iteration of the exercise in 2024, one that is expected to be the largest post-Cold War military drill to date. (Allied Joint Force Command Naples) NATOs announcement of Steadfast Defender is the latest sign of alliance enhancement of the scale of its maneuvers since Russias February 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In 2023, allies took part in the Germany-led Air Defender exercise, which was billed as the largest exhibition of NATO air power in more than 70 years. Currently, some 30 NATO warships are involved in Baltic Sea drills that the alliance said are focused for the first time on high-end warfare required to defend allies in the region. Russias war of aggression against Ukraine has radically altered the security situation in the Baltic Sea, and NATO has substantially increased its defensive presence in the region at sea, on land and in the air, NATO spokesman Dylan White said at the start of the two-week Northern Coast exercise, which got underway Sept. 9. In recent days, NATO also carried out its first drone surveillance flight over Finland as allies step up reconnaissance missions on the blocs eastern edge. The signing of four major private-sector agreements will boost the rapidly expanding trade and investment ties between the UAE and the Chinese province of Hainan. The signing ceremony took place during the Hainan Promotion Conference in Dubai and was attended by Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and Liu Xiaoming, Governor of Hainan Province. The agreements between the UAE and Hainan include: *A Memorandum of Understanding between Ajlan & Bros Holding, Hainan Airlines H`olding and Yangpu Economic Development Zone Management Committee, which was signed by Edison Gao, China-based Vice President of Ajlan & Bros Holding, Ding Yongzheng, Chairman of the Executive Board of Hainan Airlines Holding and Chen Yang, Mayor of Danzhou Municipality. *A Cooperation Framework Agreement between Dubai Integrated Economic Zones (DIEZ) and Hainan Airport Infrastructure Co Ltd., signed by HE Dr Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, and Yang Xiaobin, Chairman at Hainan Airport Infrastructure Co Ltd. *A Global Strategic Partnership between Fusion Specialised Shipping and Logistics LLC, Hainan GLA, and Hainan Logistics Group, signed by Thomas Gregory, CEO of Fusion shipping Worldwide, Sun Wenfang, President of Hainan GLA, and Liu Hairong, Chairman of Hainan Logistics Group. *A Strategic Cooperation Agreement between UAS International Trip Support and Hainan Provincial Bureau of International Economic Development (IEDB), signed by Mohammed Husary, Executive Chairman of UAS International Trip Support and Yang Shanhua, Deputy Director of Hainan IEDB. Promising JV opportunities Jointly organised by the UAE International Investors Council, the Department of Commerce of Hainan Province and the Hainan Provincial Bureau of International Economic Development, the Hainan Promotion Conference gathers business executives, trade promotion agencies and business associations from both the UAE and Hainan Province to present the most promising trade, investment and joint-venture opportunities. In his welcoming address, Al Zeyoudi invited investors from Hainan to take advantage of the UAEs dynamic business ecosystem, including its offering of 100% foreign ownership, light-touch regulation and fast-track setup processes. He also promoted the countrys unrivalled access to global markets, several of which have been enhanced by the UAEs Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement programme. Al Zeyoudi highlighted the growing relationship between Hainan and the UAE, which has resulted in bilateral non-oil trade more than doubling in 2022 to reach $900 million. The UAEs exports to Hainan surpassed $653 million in 2022, representing a growth of 98.2%. Imports, meanwhile, climbed 110.6% to reach $258 million. Trade and investment flows He noted: Bilateral trade and investment flows between the UAE and Hainan Province continue to not only deepen but also diversify. The Hainan Promotion Conference in Dubai, and the agreements we have concluded, reflect the growing synergies that exist between our two thriving economies. Our shared belief in rules-based trade and the ongoing development of world-class logistics infrastructure provide the ideal platform to accelerate our trading relationship and secure vital East-West supply chains. Xiaoming said: Last month, the UAE joined the BRICS group, and next year our nations will celebrate the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations. Under the guidance of our heads of state, it is such a pleasure to be able to meet with Al Zeyoudi to discuss and further deepen the pragmatic collaborations between Hainan and the UAE. We wish to join hands with our UAE partners to promote high-quality development while engaging in the Belt and Road initiative. I believe that together we will accomplish fruitful outcomes in areas such as free-zones, connectivity, finance, trade and other industrial cooperation. Largest in the world Others in attendance at the Hainan Promotion event represented leading Middle Eastern and Hainan private sector entities spanning trade, logistics, investment, real estate, finance and public affairs sectors. Hainan is an island province located in the southernmost part of China. It is home to a free-trade port that is projected to be the largest in the world by 2035 and also hosts the Boao Forum, an annual meeting of political and business leaders that has been described as Asias Davos.--TradeArabia News Service South Korea will send two K600 "Rhino" minefield breaching vehicles to war-torn Ukraine. The Rhino is a homegrown minesweeper that either clears up a rear area or clears paths through a minefield on the frontline. Though not a lethal weapon, the vehicle is the most warlike equipment South Korea has so far sent to Ukraine. "The government has decided recently to send two minesweepers to Ukraine as soon as possible in addition to an earlier shipment of old mine detectors," a government source here said Sunday. "This follows an urgent request and President Yoon Suk-yeol's promise to support Ukraine." The amphibious assault ship USS Bataan and dock landing ship USS Carter Hall sail together in the Red Sea on Aug. 8, 2023. The U.S. sent ships into the area in August because of a resurgence of tensions with Iran. (Jeffrey Cordero/U.S. Marine Corps) DUBAI Faced with crippling sanctions at home and eyeing upcoming U.S. elections, Iran agreed to a prisoner swap that freed five Americans, five Iranians and granted Tehran access to $6 billion of its reserves frozen abroad Monday. After years of escalating tensions with the United States, Iran may have seen Mondays prisoner swap as a last chance to secure access albeit limited to funds at a time when the countrys economy is sputtering after years of international sanctions and economic mismanagement, according to analysts. There is also hope that these small steps could lead to discussion of more substantive issues such as a return to the nuclear deal though that could be hampered by uncertainty of what sort of leadership will be running the United States after the elections. The Iranians seem reluctant to give away most of their leverage to restore the nuclear deal not knowing who the next U.S. president will be, said Ali Vaez, the Iran project director for the International Crisis Group. Nobody really wants a deal, but theyre still going to talk about it. The Biden administration has pledged to revive a nuclear agreement with Iran, but if a Republican wins the 2024 presidential election, Iran policy will likely experience a dramatic shift, as happened when Donald Trump took office and withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal. After announcing the swap, Iranian leaders characterized the negotiations as evidence of Washington capitulating to their demands. The agreement could have happened long ago if the American side cooperated and did not relate [the swap] to other issues, said Nasser Kanaani, the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman. He also said the $6 billion in Iranian funds arrived in Qatar on Monday and the assets will be available to the government and the nation. Iran has said it will have full discretion over the moneys use, while U.S. Treasury describes it has a carefully monitored humanitarian channel supporting the Iranian peoples access to food, agricultural goods, medicine, and medical devices under strict due diligence measures. The willingness of the two countries to agree on Mondays swap shows Washington and Tehran have decided the escalating tensions between the two countries wont serve either side, analysts and officials say. But that understanding is fragile and could easily collapse. A detainee deal was the lowest hanging fruit of issues the two sides could agree on, said Vaez. The United States and Iran have not resolved anything, theyve just agreed to keep a lid on their differences. Successfully carrying out the prisoner swap ensures the sustainability of current U.S.-Iran relations, preventing tensions from spiraling out of control, rather than establishing a new dynamic, he said. The agreement that facilitated the swap does not address issues beyond the prisoner exchange, the transfer of Iranian funds and how the funds will be monitored. But the months of talks that led up to the deal could pave the way for future negotiations. We see this as building trust between the two sides, said an official familiar with the negotiations who, like others in this report, spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive diplomatic exchanges. Officials from the United States and Iran negotiated the terms of the swap for more than a year after talks on a wider range of issues, including nuclear agreements, came to a standstill in June 2022, according to an individual with close knowledge of the talks. Qatar hosted the talks and its diplomats shuttled between the two parties. Representatives from the United States and Iran stayed at two separate hotels in Doha with no direct interactions or face-to-face contact, the individual said. Qatar became a key mediator in the deal, and its foreign minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani recently said the swap is a step he hopes will lead to wider dialogue on the Iranian nuclear issue. Domestic politics in the two nations, however, have long bedeviled attempts at drawing closer and frustrated both sides as they have sought to find common ground on the comparatively simpler matter of a prisoner swap much less renegotiating a nuclear deal. Jared Genser, a lawyer for the family of Siamak Namazi, the Iranian American who had been held in Tehran for nearly eight years, called it a terrible dance. There are times the U.S. was trying to sit down with Iran and Iran was moving in the other direction, or times when Iran wanted to sit down with the United States, but the U.S. was moving in another direction, he said, describing how political willingness to engage has ebbed and flowed on both sides over the course of three administrations in Washington. To get them to move together at the same time is very very hard to do, he said. Iranian media with close links to the countrys hard-liners portrayed the prisoner swap as an attempt by a weakened President Biden trying to distract attention from low poll numbers ahead of the elections, rather than some kind of hopeful breakthrough in relations. The future of U.S.-Iran relations remains fragile moving forward. Eric Brewer, with the Nuclear Threat Initiative think tank and a former U.S. intelligence official who worked on nuclear nonproliferation, said he believes the swap signals a tentative deescalation, but warns there is always the risk that it collapses. Many of the factors that have caused talks on nuclear issues to come to a standstill in recent years, remain, he said. Even if we get back to that point, we still have to solve all those problems, he said, like Iranian military support for Russia and brutal repression of protest movements. And weve also probably got some new problems that have emerged since. So, over time, reaching a deal could become more difficult. With sanctions enforcement easing and Iran having success at mending fences in the region and a stronger partnership with Russian and China, he said, then Iran might believe that it can keep its advanced nuclear program at an acceptable cost. View of a dairy farm in Minnesota. Environmental groups sue EPA over water pollution from large livestock farms. (Anthony Aneese Totah Jr/TNS) BLOOMING PRAIRIE, Minn. (Tribune News Service) Sonja Trom Eayrs walked down the gravel driveway of the family farm, surrounded by soybeans and corn almost ready for picking. She pointed in every direction. There are 12 large hog farms in a three-mile radius of their Dodge County home, she said, and the fall is when growers typically spread the manure. The smell is bad enough, she said it once made her father vomit but all the manure from growing livestock operations is overloading the county, polluting groundwater and the water running to the start of the Cedar River, she said. Were supposed to just take it. Well, were not going to take it anymore, Trom Eayrs said. A divorce lawyer by day, Trom Eayrs is a member of Dodge County Concerned Citizens, one of three Minnesota nonprofits among the 13 groups that sued the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) last Monday in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco. They are pushing the EPA to reform national water pollution permits for the large livestock operations, saying the waste from the mega farms is contributing to a national clean-water crisis. The other Minnesota-based petitioners are the Land Stewardship Project and Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy. The lawsuit dives into tensions ripe across farm country. Farmers running livestock operations say they face unrelenting economic pressures to scale up and already deal with burdensome overregulation as they produce lean, protein-rich meat for the dinner tables of Americans and consumers abroad. There are long-standing, well-designed regulatory systems currently in place that protect the environment while providing an opportunity to provide nutritious, affordable food to consumers, said Jill Resler, CEO of the Minnesota Pork Board. For Minnesotas pig farmers, protecting the environment, including water quality, is critical to the success and vitality of generational family farms. Hog farmers, many of whom are in D.C. this week for meetings with Congress, have recoiled at other high-profile litigation related to their custody of animals. Earlier this year, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a California law requiring pork sold in restaurants and grocery stores to have been raised in pens where they can move more freely than they currently do in many barns. This situation in California is setting a standard that, as a producer, Im in a position to de-populate a farm and remodel a farm, said Terry Wolters, a hog farmer from Pipestone, Minn., and past president of the National Pork Producers Council, during a press roundtable this week. I dont think California should tell me how to raise pigs. Yearslong fight The new water permit action stems from 2017, when the environmental advocates petitioned the EPA to tighten regulation of farm water pollution under the Clean Water Act, based on the growing number of large livestock operations around the country. They asked the EPA to make several changes to such huge farms, called concentrated animal feeding operations, or CAFOs: require farmers to monitor for pollutants such as nitrogen, phosphorus and total suspended solids as well as narrow what they consider to be an overly broad exemption for agricultural stormwater. As long as the CAFOs apply manure, litter and process wastewater to the land under a nutrient management plan, then the discharges associated with rain or snow are exempt from permitting. Waste from feedlots, spread to fertilize crops, holds a host of pollutants, such as nitrogen and phosphorous, that run into the Mississippi River and contribute to the Dead Zone in the Gulf of Mexico. Other contaminants can include heavy metals, antibiotics, pesticides and bacteria. When the Isaak Walton League took nearly 500 water samples in the Cedar River watershed, including Dodge County, it found 70% had E. coli levels exceeding human health standards for contact. The groups waited years for an EPA response to the 2017 petition, then sued for unreasonable delay. In August, six years after the petition was filed, the EPA rejected it. Now the groups have asked the court to disallow the EPAs denial. Emily Miller, a lawyer at Washington, D.C.-based Food & Water Watch that is co-representing the groups, called the EPAs response inadequate. It boils down to more delay and inaction, she said. Communities need better protections. Its really devastating waterways and drinking water and peoples recreational resources, Miller said. Enough is enough. The EPA and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, which has authority from the EPA and handles water pollution permits and manure regulation in the state, said they cant comment on ongoing litigation. If the lawsuit leads to the EPA making changes, Minnesota will modify its programs accordingly, the state agency said in a statement. The states feedlot permitting program is highly effective in protecting our waterways by limiting runoff from feedlot operations around the state, it said. But state enforcement, too, has been targeted. In a separate action in April, environmental advocates asked the EPA to take emergency action under the Safe Drinking Water Act, saying state and local regulation hasnt worked to stop dangerous levels of nitrate contaminating the groundwater in eight southeast Minnesota counties Dodge, Goodhue, Fillmore, Mower, Olmsted, Wabasha, Winona and Houston. It is creating an imminent and substantial endangerment to human health, they said. As for the EPA, in a 12 -page letter in August denying the 2017 petition, EPA Assistant Administrator Radhika Fox acknowledged that pollution from large livestock operations can be a significant source of pollutants but rejected each of the requested changes. EPA launching own study Instead, she said, the EPA is launching a major study and evaluation of its federal water- pollution permit regulatory program for large livestock operations. Its in the process of creating an Animal Agriculture and Water Quality Subcommittee to get input from farmers, community groups and state agencies about how to reduce the pollution. The agency is enthusiastic about finding solutions, Fox wrote. Bonnie Keeler, co-director of the University of Minnesotas Center for Science, Technology & Environmental Policy, said shes sympathetic to the EPAs response. It doesnt want to waste time creating rules that wont pass legal challenges, she said. Personally, Id like to see more action on CAFOs at the state and municipal level, she said. I think efforts are better placed at influencing local zoning and state water quality standards, as well as increasing funding and capacity for monitoring, and enforcement. Minnesota is home now to 1,583 CAFOs holding about 42 million animals, about 1,112 of that have federal water pollution permits, according to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agencys latest count. They are a fraction of the more than 22,200 registered feedlots around the state that produce an estimated 50 million tons of manure each year. A 2020 study by the Washington D.C.-based nonprofit Environmental Working Group, found that the double whammy of manure and synthetic fertilizers spread on fields are overloading areas in the state. Trom Eayrs said she thinks theres just limited oversight of the manure management: As my dad would say, They have to get rid of the damn stuff. 2023 StarTribune. Visit at startribune.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. U.S. Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy (R-California) speaks to reporters as he leaves a House Republican caucus meeting at the U.S. Capitol on Sept. 14, 2023, in Washington, D.C. In a contentious meeting that was scheduled to be on the Biden impeachment, McCarthy outlined his plans to pass a spending bill while fending off threats from members of his own party to remove him with a motion to vacate. (Kevin Dietsch/TNS) (Tribune News Service) House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced demands to hold off an Oct. 1 U.S. government shutdown for a month, including an 8% temporary spending cut for domestic agencies and a resumption of border wall construction. McCarthy presented the plan to Republican lawmakers in a conference call Sunday evening after negotiators representing key factions within the House GOP settled on the demands to temporarily fund the government for 31 days. A House vote on the measure is planned for Thursday. The demands, which also include provisions curtailing the ability of migrants to claim asylum in the U.S., are anathema to most Democrats and arent likely to be accepted by the Democratic-led Senate. That means the bill doesnt reduce the risk of a shutdown. The bill also doesnt contain emergency Ukraine war funds or disaster aid including relief for victims of Maui wildfires and a Florida hurricane requested by President Joe Bidens administration. McCarthy immediately faced opposition from some GOP ultra-conservatives that could doom the plan. Six hard-right lawmakers quickly announced their opposition. McCarthy can only afford to lose four Republicans, without Democratic support. But if McCarthy and the plans authors can unite Republicans behind the strategy, it would clear the way for the House to vote on a proposal for temporary funding. Efforts to pass funding measures have ground to a halt in the House amid clashes between GOP hardliners and moderates. McCarthy became so frustrated with hardliners opposition to any spending measures that he dared them at a meeting on Thursday to try to oust him from his leadership position. The new proposal followed days of talks between leaders of two key Republican factions. Representatives Byron Donalds, a negotiator for the ultra-conservative Freedom Caucus, and Dusty Johnson, leader of the more moderate Main Street Partnership, presented the plan in the conference call. Still, the plan quickly ran into objections from the hard right that jeopardize its chances in the House. Representative Rosa DeLauro, the top-ranking Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, said the GOP proposal was extreme and would cut funding to the National Institutes of Health including funding for cancer research, defund the police, and decrease resources to important allies like Ukraine and Israel. Earlier Sunday, McCarthy said he hoped to avert a shutdown because it would undermine Republicans leverage in negotiations over federal spending. I want to make sure we dont shut down, McCarthy said on Fox News Sunday Morning Futures. I dont think that is a win for the American public and I definitely believe itll make our hand weaker if we shut down. ___ Former President Donald Trump speaks during the Pray Vote Stand Summit, Sept. 15, 2023, in Washington. (Jose Luis Magana/AP) Donald Trump is facing new blowback from anti-abortion activists for refusing to commit to national abortion restrictions and for calling Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signing of a six-week ban on the procedure a terrible mistake. Speaking Sunday on NBCs Meet the Press, Trump repeatedly declined to say whether he would support a federal ban on abortion. He said he could live with the procedure being banned by individual states or nationwide through federal action, though he said from a legal standpoint, I think its probably better to be handled at the state level. Regarding the bill signed by DeSantis, which bans abortions before many women know they are pregnant, Trump said, I think what he did is a terrible thing and a terrible mistake. So far, the former president has dominated the 2024 field while at times spurning the anti-abortion groups that traditionally have huge influence in Republican primaries. But Trumps direct attack on DeSantis, whom hes long treated as his chief rival, could give the Florida governor new fodder as he tries to regain momentum in his campaign and solidify his second-place standing. Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, DeSantis campaign spokesman Bryan Griffin wrote of Trump: If you want to appease Democrats, heres your guy. If you want to defeat the Democrats in 2024, (DeSantis) is the only choice. Another campaign spokesman, Andrew Romeo, distributed to reporters a roundup of conservative groups criticizing Trump and accused him of repeatedly compromising with Democrats. Republicans across the country know that Ron DeSantis will never back down, Romeo said. The countrys largest anti-abortion organization, which backs a national ban on abortions at 15 weeks of pregnancy, quickly released a statement saying anything less restrictive makes no sense. Were at a moment where we need a human rights advocate, someone who is dedicated to saving the lives of children and serving mothers in need. Every single candidate should be clear on how they plan to do that, said Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America. The Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v. Wade left the decision of whether and how to restrict abortion to the states, creating a patchwork of laws across the country, with most Republican-led states imposing new restrictions and states led by Democrats passing protections. Twenty-five million women of childbearing age now live in states where abortions are more difficult to get than before the ruling. Trump has approached abortion from a political stance, saying that the Supreme Courts decision gave conservatives room to negotiate new restrictions. He has argued Republicans push for abortion restrictions hurt the GOP in the 2022 midterm elections and that GOP candidates need to do a better job of explaining the issue. Banning abortion at six weeks of pregnancy, as Florida enacted earlier this year, is unpopular with the U.S. public, according to an Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research conducted in June. The poll found that 73% of all U.S. adults believe abortion should be allowed up to six weeks of pregnancy, which is when cardiac activity in a fetus may be detected and before women often know theyre pregnant. About half of Americans say abortions should be permitted up to 15 weeks. In that poll, 56% of Republicans said abortion should be allowed in their state up to 6 weeks and 29% supported making the procedure legal up to 15 weeks. But in Iowas first-in-the-nation Republican caucuses, evangelicals and other social conservatives who strongly oppose abortion make up the majority of those who participate and decide the winner. Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds this summer signed an abortion ban similar to Floridas. Reynolds has not endorsed a candidate. Trump has called himself the the most pro-life president in American history and noted that three of his Supreme Court picks formed part of the conservative majority that overturned Roe. He has so far declined to go along with some of his rivals, including his onetime vice president, Mike Pence, who is pushing for national bans that would take effect relatively early in a pregnancy. Interviews with GOP voters and activists over the past several months suggest a split between people satisfied with Trumps record during his term and others who want Trump to endorse a national abortion ban. Some Republicans in some key states, including those backing his rivals, expressed displeasure after the interview. Among them was South Carolina state Rep. John McCravy, who sponsored the most recent, restrictive abortion measure, which bans the practice in his state after around six weeks of pregnancy. South Carolina will be among the early states to choose a nominee. McCravy described himself in an interview as certainly disappointed. It sounded completely out of step with his staunch support for life while he was president, he said. McCravy has endorsed South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott in the 2024 GOP presidential primary but told AP last week, Trump would probably be a close second, noting his Supreme Court appointments and his attending the March for Life rally in Washington. Kristen Waggoner, CEO of the conservative legal organization Alliance Defending Freedom, also took issue. Laws protecting the unborn are not a terrible mistake. They are the hallmark of a just and moral society, she wrote on X. Governors who protect life should be applauded, not attacked. Burnett reported from Chicago. Associated Press writers Jonathan J. Cooper in Phoenix, Meg Kinnard in Columbia, S.C., and Michelle L. Price in New York contributed to this report. Nisei Veterans Legacy is scheduled to host the 18th annual Nisei Soldiers Memorial Service at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific on Sunday. (Nisei Veterans Memorial Center/Facebook) HONOLULU (Tribune News Service) Nisei Veterans Legacy is scheduled to host the 18th annual Nisei Soldiers Memorial Service at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific on Sunday. Nisei Veterans Legacy is scheduled to host the 18th annual Nisei Soldiers Memorial Service at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific on Sunday. The service will continue the tradition of celebrating the spirit of the nisei soldiers who served in World War II with a presentation of colors, wreath-draping, songs and a rifle salute, according to a news release. Our fathers, grandfathers, grand-uncles and other nisei were willing to sacrifice their lives and give their all to show their loyalty to the United States even in the face of prejudice and injustice, said Nisei Soldiers Memorial Service Chair Lynn Heirakuji. We honor the nisei soldiers and the values they passed on to us. Heirakuji, whose father was a member of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, is also former president of the Nisei Veterans Legacy. The event, first held in 2006, honors nisei veterans who served in the 100th Infantry Battalion, the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, Military Intelligence Service and 1399 Engineer Construction Battalion. It is scheduled to be held on the date closest to the anniversary that the first American soldier of Japanese ancestry was killed in combat, according to the news release. Minda Yamaga, board president of the Japanese American Citizens Leagues Honolulu chapter, will be the events keynote speaker. Yama gas mother was born in the Mountain Relocation Center in Wyoming, where Japanese Americans were incarcerated after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. The ceremony will also include participation from the 11th Army Band, student presenters and Junior ROTC cadets. The service is free to attend and will begin at 9 :30 a.m. A livestream of the service will also be viewable that day on Olelo, channel 53. Linsey Dower covers ethnic and cultural affairs and is a corps member of Report for America, a national service organization that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues and communities. (c)2023 The Honolulu Star-Advertiser Visit The Honolulu Star-Advertiser Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Opinion articles written in the style of their author. These texts are to be based on verified facts and must be respectful towards people, even though their actions may be criticized. All opinion articles written by individuals from outside the staff of EL PAIS shall feature, along with the authors name (regardless of their greater or lesser renown), a footer stating their office, academic title, political affiliation (if any) and main occupation, or the occupation related to the topic being assessed Raul Ruiz, the Chilean film director who died in 2011, couldnt finish editing Socialist Realism before he was forced to flee the bloody 1973 coup in his country, first to Argentina and later to France. His widow, filmmaker Valeria Sarmiento, recently completed the documentary that offers a critical view of the social climate in Salvador Allendes Chile, seamlessly transitioning between facts and a surreal, macabre fiction. The film will be screened at the 2023 San Sebastian Film Festival. The full title of Ruizs film Socialist Realism as One of the Fine Arts may lead unsuspecting audiences to wonder whether theyll be served a meal of revolutionary propaganda. In fact, the film is an acerbic satire of revolutionary propaganda. Radical harangues are portrayed with a mix of absurdity and patronizing tenderness as the film provides a harsh and prophetic depiction of the Chilean peoples dashed hopes in a government that would ultimately be destroyed by military factions. It is evident that Ruiz, despite being a member of the Socialist Party and closely associated with Chiles leftist Unidad Popular party, had a unique and unconventional perspective, full of irony, and constantly aware of the paradoxical nature of things. Much of the cast are not professional actors the workers who take over their factory are real people. Another storyline involves enlightened bourgeois intellectuals (bourgeois being the worst possible insult) who dream of a poetic revolution. Sinister characters make appearances, hinting at their involvement in the coup and the brutal repression that will follow. The director chose to focus on two dissidents: a crooked worker kicked out of the factory for not being revolutionary enough, and a publicist who constantly complains about capitalism. These two lost souls, who will gradually become radicalized in opposite directions, illustrate Chiles polarization and road to disaster. What seems like parody is real. What seems real morphs into unsettling surrealism. The film will not appeal to the dogmatic Ruiz never was one. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Caretaker PM Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar will represent Pakistan at the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly beginning in New York from Tuesday. He will address session of UN General Assembly on Friday. In his address, the Prime Minister will outline Pakistan's perspective on a range of regional and global issues including Jammu and Kashmir dispute which is amongst the longstanding unresolved items on the UN Agenda. He will also elaborate on the significant measures being taken by the government to consolidate Pakistan's economic recovery and efforts to mobilize domestic and external investments. During his stay, the Prime Minister will hold meetings with global leaders on the sidelines of the session. Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar will also attend an important conference on climate change. He is also scheduled to interact with the international media and visit prominent US think tanks. US President Joe Biden, as leader of the host country, will be the second speaker on Tuesday, the opening day of the annual gathering of world leaders. The list of speakers indicates the presence of 145 Heads of State and Government, 6 Vice Presidents, 4 Deputy Prime Ministers and 38 Ministers or Chiefs of Delegations a total of 196. This years theme is restoring trust and reigniting global solidarity. In a series of briefings, UN officials have said that efforts to address Global South needs, including tackling poverty and diseases and improving access to clean water and energy, are trailing far behind the target. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) President Parvez Elahi Monday found himself embroiled in yet another case, as he will now be headed to Lahore with the Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) Punjab following an approval of their request seeking his transitory remand. After an anti-terrorism court (ATC) ordered to send him to jail on judicial remand in the case pertaining to the attack on the Federal Judicial Complex (FJC), ACE Punjab stepped in seeking the senior politician's remand in a new case filed in Lahore for misusing his power and position to shuffle provincial bureaucracy. According to a first information report (FIR), Elahi has been booked under section 5/2(d)47 of the Prevention of Corruption Act (PCA) for illicitly misusing his position and power as the then-chief minister of Punjab and transferring Muhammad Khan Bhatti, an employ in a special department of the Punjab Assembly, to a principal secretary. ATC judge Abual Hasnat Zulqarnain approved ACE Punjab's request to issue Elahi's one-day transitory remand after reserving its verdict in the wake of arguments presented by the anti-graft department. "Can't the chief minister appoint his own chief secretary? He has the authority to appoint his own staff," Elahi's lawyer Sardar Abdul Razzaq said during his arguments, revealing that the case against the politico was filed a day earlier. He contested the case was booked after a lower court in Lahore discharged his client on Sunday. Elahi, however, wasn't released due to the non-payment of surety bonds. The PTI leader's counsel said that his client has been targeted due to political vengeance since January and argued that he was arrested again after being discharged from the courtroom. Earlier, the court had ordered Elahi to be sent to jail under judicial remand during the hearing of the FJC attack case in the very establishment. Videos Sorry, there are no recent results for popular videos. A man had been stabbed and was in the back of an ambulance being treated by paramedics for his injuries when the accused approached. A young man ran up to an ambulance where a stabbing victim was being treated and threatened to kill him in a case of mistaken identity, a court heard. Nathan Flynn (29) mistakenly thought the wounded man in the back of the ambulance was his sisters partner when he said he was getting shot. Judge Bryan Smyth struck the case out, leaving him without a criminal conviction after hearing Flynn had nothing to do with the stabbing. Flynn, with an address at Summerhill Parade in the north inner city, was charged with using threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour to cause a breach of the peace. Garda Adam McGrane told Dublin District Court the incident happened in Summerhill on November 6 last year. A man had been stabbed and was in the back of an ambulance being treated by paramedics for his injuries when the accused approached. Flynn was running from the Ballybough direction and went to the back of the ambulance where the stabbing victim was, the garda said. He stated he was going to kill him and he was getting shot, the garda said. There was a large number of people in the area at the time and the accused fled the scene, the court heard. Flynn was arrested later that day at his home address. Gardai initially thought he was the person who had injured the man in the ambulance but this was not the case and Flynn was not involved in that. Flynn told gardai he had received a call from his sister and thought the male in the ambulance was his sisters partner, the garda said. He said he was sorry and had not known it was a different person, Gda McGrane said. Flynns sister had been looking for assistance on the day and when he got there it was a case of mistaken identity, his lawyer said. He asked the judge to take account of this and leave his client without a criminal record. Judge Smyth struck the case out. Ivan Giles also admitted possessing firearms without a certificate and possessing a gun under suspicious circumstances A ex-special forces soldier today admitted a catalogue of offences including criminal damage and intimidation after he bombarded his neighbours with metal ball bearings. Standing in the dock of Downpatrick Crown Court, 48-year-old Ivan Jason Giles entered guilty pleas to 47 of the 49 charges against him, committed over a ten month period between 27 October 2021 and 4 August last year. Giles, from the Rathgael Road in Bangor, admitted 15 charges of criminal damage, two of attempted criminal damage, two of harassment, three of common assault, three possessing firearms without a certificate and single offences of possessing a gun under suspicious circumstances and intimidation. While the 48-year-old denied two further offences of assaulting police, prosecuting counsel Laura Ievers told the court the PPS were content those offences could be left on the books. While none of the alleged facts were opened today, previous courts have heard how that Giles terrorised his neighbours by firing more than 500 metal ball bearings at them with a catapult. When Giles was originally charged in August last year, the court heard that because his neighbours sporty Nissan 200SX and Honda S2000 cars were backfiring and exacerbating his PTSD, Giles took matters into his own hands but instead of talking to his neighbours, the former British Army Corporal indiscriminately launched in excess of 500 ball bearings using a catapult in a ten month intimidation campaign. The ball bearings, the court heard, struck not just the apparently offending cars but also two men, three houses and a number of other vehicles as well as a camera the police had set up. At one stage cops who were out speaking to the victims had to take cover when ball bearings started to rain down on them, striking a CCTV camera with such force that it was left shaking. Const. Johnson said police estimate more than 500 ball bearings were fired over the ten months, resulting in upwards of 20,000 of damage being caused. One neighbour, who works as a nurse, has left her home and is refusing to return, the court heard In an incident at the end of July, Giles was captured on camera holding a catapult with a ball bearing and just launching it while searches at his home uncovered a large sack of ball bearings and other catapults. Arrested and interviewed Giles, who spent more than 20 years in the military where he served with distinction in multiple war zones, refused to answer police questions, even when CCTV footage was put to him. In court today defence counsel Conor Holmes confirmed that Giles has a single conviction for careless driving more than 20 years ago and asking for sentencing to be adjourned, he told Judge Geoffrey Millar KC he would also be obtaining a psychological report along with a probation, pre-sentence report. The report will be illuminating, Mr Holmes told the judge who, freeing Giles on continuing bail, adjourned the case to 10 November. Mark Brown (36) appeared at Coleraine Magistrates Court this morning to face two charges of assault A self-professed former National Front leader in Northern Ireland has been charged with assaulting two women last month. Mark Brown (36), of Skerryview, Portrush, appeared at Coleraine Magistrates Court this morning to face two charges of assault. The defendant has been accused of unlawfully assaulting both female victims on August 20. Attending court, Brown indicated he understood the charges to which a police constable, meanwhile, said they could connect the defendant. District Judge King awarded continuing bail to Brown, subject to conditions prohibiting him from having any contact with the victims or entering a named area of Coleraine. The judge adjourned the case until October 16. Mark Brown Brown has been involved in a number of anti-immigration protests in Portrush over the past year. He was arrested during one in May after he began to approach a number of counter-protestors. The PSNI confirmed Brown had been given a penalty notice for disorder (PND) as a result of the incident. This newspaper also revealed in May that Brown was the driving force behind agitation in the town over concerns the former Magherabuoy House Hotel was to be used, under new ownership, to provide accommodation for asylum seekers. A further protest took place in the town on June 24, with a counter-demonstration also organised on the same afternoon. Brown was also vocal in his opposition to the inaugural Causeway Pride that took place in August, again taking to Facebook to brand those behind the event a queer tent who were attempting to force debauchery and other societal ills on our townsfolk. Brown also called on people to end normalising sexual deviancy and shared a picture with the caption protect our children. Its not the first time that McKenna, currently serving a nine year sentence for the abduction, sexual assault and rape of a 12-year-old child, has been charged with domestic abuse from prison. Although the 29-year-old sex offender did not appear at Coleraine Magistrates Court, his defence counsel Thomas McKeever confirmed the rapist was denying the single charge against him alleging that breached the non molestation order on 19 December last year at HMP Magilligan. Convicted rapist Gerard McKenna He told District Judge Peter King no witnesses would need to be called as the evidence can be agreed and having heard that McKenna is serving a significant sentence, the judge said that takes some of the pressure off as regards fixing a date for the contest. Its not the first time that McKenna, currently serving a nine year sentence for the abduction, sexual assault and rape of a 12-year-old child, has been charged with domestic abuse from prison. In September 2021, the drug addict father-of-three entered guilty pleas to charges of harassment, breaching a non-molestation order and persistent improper use of a telecommunication network on dates between December 1, 2020 and April 9, 2021. Those charges arose after McKenna made a jailhouse threat to his ex-partner that he would cut her into a thousand pieces and made upwards of 100 calls to his ex every week from the prison where he was at the time on remand for child rape. Read more Sicko who abducted and raped schoolgirl (12) has appeal thrown out Amongst the threats he issued to his ex during upwards of 100 voicemails a week, remorseless paedophile McKenna told his ex he would put her in a car and bury her, that she was f****** dead and he would throw acid in her face. During his two week rape trial in April 2022, the jury heard how McKenna and his mate 27-year-old Paul Sheridan lured two young girls away from responsible adults on 23 December 2019, giving them gulps of expensive Grey Goose vodka mixed with 7up before the pair raped the then 12-year-old victim on the Lagan towpath. At the end of the trial and despite McKenna protestations of innocence, the jury unanimously convicted the thug of abducting, raping and sexually assaulting his 12-year-old victim, offering her cocaine and abducting her 15-year-old friend. Sheridan, from Hillfoot Crescent in Ballynahinch, wasnt tried with him as he had gone on the run under paramilitary death threat but when he was eventually arrested, he entered guilty pleas to rape, sexual assault and child abduction. At Craigavon Crown Court last October, McKenna was handed a nine year sentence while Sheridan was given a six and a half year sentence with the paedophiles ordered to spend a further three years under supervised licence conditions when eventually released. In court today, DJ King adjourned the case to October 2 to fix a date for the contest. In ancient Rome, a woman on top during sexual intercourse was frowned upon. Given the suggestion that the man was being ridden like a horse, it was considered humiliating for the male partner. It was a position specific to prostitutes and carried with it a higher fee up to twice as much in Pompeii as it was considered somewhat kinky. However, the woman having intercourse on all fours was acceptable, because the Romans respected the natural world and animals, and this position seemed to favor fertility. The buttocks were appreciated more than breasts: large breasts were the object of ridicule the adjective mastale, meaning busty, was used as were large penises. Another thing that would surprise us about Roman habits in bed, or in the dining room or at the kitchen table, is a resounding rejection of oral sex, and especially cunnilingus, which comes from the Latin cunnus, meaning vulva, and lingere, to lick. Cunnus is the word historian Patricia Gonzalez Gutierrez has chosen as the title for her new book, which is subtitled Sex and power in Rome. Once again focusing on gender issues like her previous work, Soror, Women in Rome (2021), the cover of Cunnus is an explicit illustration of the female genitalia by Paula Bonet. Well, there are people who understand right away what it is and others who dont, so we decided to go all out, explains Gonzalez, a 40-year-old scholar who was born in Santiago de Chile to Spanish parents. From a table in a Barcelona cafeteria, she goes on to point out the difficulty of addressing the subject of sex in history beyond unscientific dissemination and anecdotes. It is a topic that continues to be controversial when it is dealt with from an academic point of view; the motives for doing so are questioned with activism suspected. How did the ancient Romans do it? Very differently and very much like us at the same time, answers Gonzalez, who is not unlike the British classics media personality Mary Beard regarding her rebellious attitude and her ability to tackle provocative topics. Their concept of sex was conditioned by that of hierarchy, rather than gender. If you were powerful, you could do whatever you wanted. In general, almost anything was permissible as long as you were a man and the active partner in the relationship, with women and inferior men, such as gladiators and actors of both sexes, always being penetrated by you. The vir, the man of virtue, the Roman patrician, was literally impenetrable. It is possible that the Emperor Nero characterized his male lovers as girls to avoid speculation on this issue rather than for esthetic reasons. Of course, slaves were completely subjected and at the sexual mercy of the owner at all times, even children, she says. In theory there were some boundaries other citizens were off limits, for example. And statutory rape of young boys and girls of good family as well as adultery were crimes, although the one considered at fault was invariably the woman. Gender violence was the order of the day, and any real chance of justice was slim, says Gonzalez. Killing a woman could prove terribly cheap. Oral sex, according to Gonzalez, was not socially acceptable. It was seen as humiliating for the one who practiced it they would be considered impudicitia meaning sexually impure; it was thought that it dirtied the mouth. The poet Martial added that it produced bad breath. This does not mean that it did not happen, especially fellatio, but there are few allusions and representations, and even less of cunnilingus, which was more vilified. In fact, when it comes to graffiti, one usually finds the expression lingitcunnum a person who performs cunnilingus used as an insult. Anal sex was highly reprehensible and humiliating and dishonorable if you were the passive partner, but, says Gonzalez, we have plenty of evidence of it, from the Warren Cup to the explicit poems of Martial and the Priapic inscriptions te pedico, I give it to you up the ass, was the war cry of the god. Image of the Warren Cup. The ancient Romans were well aware of the female orgasm and the clitoris, which they called the landica, and there are even medical sources that speak of manipulating it to eliminate hysteria; it was also trimmed when it was considered too big, for medical reasons, never religious. In any case, female pleasure must have been complicated when youre first raped at the age of 10 and have your wedding night with mature men at 12, as Gonzalez points out. When you look at sex in Rome, it is much harder to see elements of tenderness as opposed to those of humiliation, not unlike on todays social networks. Gonzalez adds that it was common to associate the penis with the pilum or spear, and other weapons, which sums up the aggressive nature of male sexuality at the time. Despite so many stories, movies and series revolving around Roman orgies and debauchery, Gonzalez insists that the ancient Romans were quite puritanical. But what about the objects and paintings from Pompeii kept in the Secret Museum in Naples, what about Caligula, what about Messalina? These are extreme cases, she says. In general, we have exaggerated the sexuality of the Romans. The reality is that even public displays of affection were frowned upon. Cato the Elder expelled a certain Manilius from the Senate for kissing his wife in broad daylight and in front of his daughter. Plutarch recommended avoiding marrying a woman who claimed to be in love with you, as the passion was unbecoming. We have been influenced by images from movies and series, such as I, Claudius, and Spartacus. That is not to say that there werent people who escaped the norm Seneca accused Mamercus Scaurus of receiving the menstrual blood of his female slaves with his mouth open, the epitome of everything repulsive to a Roman. Also, at the pinnacle of the elites, there were behaviors that make Tinto Brass look like an amateur: What Tiberius did with children was even worse than what the movie Caligula depicted, says Gonzalez. The children with whom the emperor bathed, his little fishes, were little ones who still had the suckling reflex and latched on. The historian Patricia Gonzalez Gutierrez. MARIA GESTOSO Gonzalez points out that ancient Rome was a society that produced aqueducts, roads, laws, and great culture, but in which equally great violence was the order of the day: Sexual violence was terrible, she says. We would not like to have lived in ancient Rome. There was absolutely no consent. What we talk so much about now with the Rubiales case was alien to them. They didnt even have a word to describe it. The accepted status quo was one of women bending entirely to the will of men, and the humble to the powerful. According to Gonzalez, when we think of ancient Rome, what comes to mind is Messalina, Poppea and Julia, the daughter of Augustus, famous for her scandalous promiscuity, but the women who really embodied the daily reality of Rome were the raped Lucretias, or the Cornelias serious, self-sacrificing women. Or Octavia, who shut up and put up. Or, the much reviled Livia herself, who is married at 14, has two children before she is 18, is forced to divorce and ends up married to the sociopath, Augustus. Gonzalez mentions the poet Ovid, and not exactly in praise of his poem, The Metamorphoses. The poet of love, ha! she says. We have not read the sources properly. The art of loving is shocking. Not only because it is a list of tricks to deceive women, but because it directly advocates mistreatment and justifies it. He himself is shown to be a textbook abuser, who beat his girlfriend and then repented and gave her flowers. A horrible and idiotic character. Much worse than Rubiales. Today he would have been roasted on Twitter. Fresco with an erotic scene in Pompeii. It is true that, despite its literary beauty Ovids poetry flowed instinctively: quidquid tentabam dicere, versus erat, some chapters of the seduction manual, The Art of Love, are seriously appalling when read with todays sensibility. Like the one entitled More means of seduction: tears, kisses and, if necessary, violence. In a translation by Juan Luis Arcaz Pozo, the poet writes: Those she does not give you [kisses], you take from her. At first perhaps she will oppose you and say indecent, but she will want to be defeated in the dispute. See only that the kisses thus stolen do not hurt her delicate lips and that she cannot complain that they were violent. And theres worse: Even if you appeal to violence, such violence is pleasing to girls, Ovid writes. Many times they wish to give unwillingly that which they like. Anyone who has been forced by a sudden rapture of passion is grateful for it and considers this indecency as a gift. Cultured and enlightened, Ovid, the poet of the city of Sulmona, justifies his advice with examples of mythology as unedifying as that of Achilles, who, when he was hiding in the court of the king of Scyros disguised as a woman to avoid going to Troy, got into the bed of the kings daughter, Deidamia; and she discovered due to rape that he was a man. By force, it is true, she was outraged (it is necessary to recognize it), but, nevertheless, she wanted to be outraged by force. Then theres this recommendation: Tactfully harass her. As far as Gonzalez is concerned, Ovids banishment to Tomis was not punishment enough for his infamy and stupidity. In one of his pleas to Augustus to allow him to return to Rome from his remote and barbaric city of exile he reproached the emperor for having a collection of porn literature, a very common genre in Rome. Another famous, if fictional, Roman who Gonzalez tackles is Maximus Decimus Meridius, protagonist of Gladiator and commander of the legions of the North and general of the Felix legions. He strikes me as much worse than Joaquin Phoenixs Commodus, who by the way is depicted as camp as Roman villains almost always are despite the Romans themselves being homophobic. But in the movie, Commodus barely engineers some necessary political assassinations, while Maximus is truly genocidal, the real nazi in the film. To paraphrase The Life of Brian, what have the Romans done for us women in terms of sex? We owe almost everything we have to endure in terms of marital sex to them all passed down through Christianity: the passive woman in the missionary position, foregoing pleasure, submitted to her husbands desire, spreading her legs and thinking of England. And its impossible to ignore how hard it is for us to get rid of that. Joaquin Phoenix in 'Gladiator.' The accused had 97 previous convictions and was already serving a sentence for assault and robbery when he appeared in court. A young man caught with a screwdriver on him in central Dublin told gardai he had it for his own protection. Sean McCarthy (24) was jailed for six months but a judge made the sentence concurrent to a prison term he is already serving. McCarthy, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a weapon. Garda Brian Kelly told Dublin District Court he was passing Abbey Cottages in the north part of the city on March 8 last year when he saw the accused in a laneway, acting suspiciously. The garda found a screwdriver on him and McCarthy said he had it for his own protection. The accused had 97 previous convictions and was already serving a sentence for assault and robbery when he appeared in court. McCarthy was homeless and struggling with a chaotic drug addiction at the time of the offence, his solicitor said. His large number of convictions were testament to his addiction. He had since detoxed, the defence said. He asked Judge Bryan Smyth not to add to the accuseds current sentence. The judge said a sentence was warranted but the six months are to run from the date of conviction. 19-year-old Jordan Hamill entered not guilty pleas to each of the seven charges against him Standing in the dock of Downpatrick Crown Court, 19-year-old Jordan Hamill entered not guilty pleas to each of the seven charges against him, all of them alleged to have been committed on 26 March last year. Hamill, from Leeson Street is accused of five charges of burglary including at three neighbouring properties at The Courtyard in Crawfordsburn and two further neighbours on the Old Windmill Road, also in Crawfordsburn. Jordan Hamill In four of the burglaries, Hamill is accused of breaking into the properties with intent to steal while in one other, he is alleged to have stolen car keys and a hammer. In addition, Hamill is also charged with stealing a JBL speaker and a power adapter from inside a car and with trying to steal a Honda Jazz. While the full facts of the case were not opened, Judge Geoffrey Millar KC summarised how it is the Crown case that Hamill was allegedly identified by CCTV and a doorbell camera, being found in a part of the country he has nob association with, high on drugs, items that are identified as coming from one of the burglaries are found in his possession and he makes no comment responses during police interviews. Defence counsel Kelly Doherty agreed that was a fair summary and also that Hamill had been warned about receiving credit for early guilty pleas. Remanding Hamill back into custody Judge Millar listed the trial to begin on 14 February but also that he would review the case on 17 October. If it seems too good to be true, chances are it is Banking investment scams are getting more sophisticated as now scammers can use genuine bank staff names and titles. If it seems too good to be true, chances are it is, AIB spokesperson said. AIB urged people in a release to remain extremely cautious and vigilant around these scams as a number of them are currently in circulation. They pretend to be AIB and other major banks while bearing "similar hallmarks with minor variations, the bank said. An individual or a fake website can contact a customer to offer investment products pretending to be from genuine and well-known names in financial services. Fraudsters might be in possession of sophisticated brochures or other materials that might look barely indistinguishable from the original documents. Scammers often might be using names and job titles from people in AIB or other banks that look legitimate, however they are followed by a fake email address: for example johndoe@aibirish.ie. A customer then receives documents to fill out, followed by a request to transfer money to an illegitimate account which does not belong to the financial services firm. This chain of events often ends up with customers losing their money. The bank said these crimes usually happen when a customer is under time pressure to get the best rate of return. AIB warned people of the increasing risk of falling into this trap and gave advice on how to avoid fraudsters. Customers should always check the contact details on the companys official website. They also need to verify the adviser by going to the banks website and checking if their office location and phone numbers match. AIB warned not to use a phone number received in the email and, instead, confirm the number on the website. Email address should be aligned with the official format of the company, which can be checked by comparing them with the available email addresses on the official website. There should be a padlock symbol to the left of the web address, indicating that the website is secure. If in doubt about any payments, AIB advised to simply call the bank, which will ensure to check the transaction and beneficiary account. This step could save the money from being stolen. Even if an adviser was recommended by a trusted person, customers should seek investment advice from a regulated financial adviser. AIB suggested to check the Central Bank of Irelands consumer hub (centralbank.ie) and search for a list of unauthorised firms to learn how to avoid financial scams. In response to the increasing number of scams, AIB Head of Financial Crime Carol Lawton said: Investment scams can be very distressing for people as they often take place after much consideration and involve significant amounts of money, in some cases, peoples life savings. These scams can be very sophisticated, with high-end, often authentic brochures and other materials used to trick people into investing. We know criminals also use legitimate names and job titles of people working in banks such as AIB or others. Doctor who launched foul-mouthed tirade at motorist is appealing her jail sentence for causing criminal damage to her neighbours property Annette Brennan was caught on camera shouting abuse at a motorist at Cappakeel before calling the gardai to the scene A 74-year-old GP has pleaded guilty to engaging in threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour after a bizarre traffic incident during which she screamed obscenities at another driver. Portlaoise-based doctor Annette Brennan who was previously sentenced to a year in prison over an equally bizarre incident in which she chopped down her neighbours fence with a chainsaw appeared before Portlaoise District Court on Tuesday. Brennan initially faced two charges arising from an incident that occurred outside the Gandon Inn in Cappakeel on December 4, 2021. In a recording of the incident, subsequently shared online, Brennan can be seen waving her finger in the other drivers face and shouting: F**k, f**k, f**k, as he appeals to her: Please step back from my vehicle. Closing the door of a vehicle, Brennan then approaches the driver saying: Do you think Im going to f**king step away from you. You f**k off! You f**k off! The other driver responds: Im telling you now Im asking you to step away. Step away from me! As the other driver finishes the last part of that sentence, Brennan begins a phone call to the local garda station in a more reasonable voice. Hello. This is Dr Annette Brennan, she says. I would be grateful if you could send gardai here. As Brennan is talking on the phone, a bystander asks if there is a child in there [in the mans car], to which he responds: Yes, there is a child in there She crashed into my car and theres a child in the car and shes talking to me like that. Annette Brennan appeared in Portlaoise District Court Brennans latest court appearance comes six months after she was jailed by Judge Andrew Cody, who convicted her of chainsawing down 26 of her neighbours fence posts and causing criminal damage to the foundations of their new home with a pickaxe. Brennan was released from custody after she immediately appealed that sentence. She later refused to apologise for her actions when approached by the Sunday World. At the time, the long-serving GP also warned there will be no resolution to the conflict with her neighbours, a young couple she sold the site to, unless they knock down their garage and hand back 15 feet of their land to her. The court heard the couple had been unable to move into their new home as Brennan is refusing to allow the ESB access through her land to connect them to the grid. This week, the GP was back before the courts once again. At Tuesdays sitting, Judge Shalom Binchy heard Brennan was charged with an assault on Richard Robinson in relation to the road rage incident. The charge was contrary to Section 2 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act, 1997. Annette Brennan at Portlaoise District Court this week Judge Binchy was told Brennan also faced a second charge that at the same place, on the same date, she did use or engage in threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace or being reckless as to whether a breach of the peace might have been occasioned. This charge was contrary to section 6 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, 1994 as amended by Section 22 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act, 2008. Appearing on behalf of Brennan, solicitor Philip Meagher said there was a plea in respect of the section 6 public order charge and, on this basis, the State had agreed to withdraw the section 2 assault charge. Sgt Michael Tarpey for the prosecution confirmed this to be the case. Mr Meagher informed the court that his client was a lady with certain background medical issues. He further stated that she was due to see a medical professional named as Professor Casey in the coming weeks. He advised the court that a report would be forthcoming from Professor Casey in approximately six weeks. Annette Brennan was caught on camera shouting abuse at a motorist at Cappakeel before calling the gardai to the scene ... ... . Judge Binchy agreed that she would adjourn the case awaiting the completion of the report in the next six to eight weeks. She said she was noting the defendants plea of guilty. She then further adjourned the case to the December 12 sitting of Portlaoise District Court in the hope of a quieter environment on that date. In March, Annette Brennan spoke to the Sunday World after she was convicted of chain-sawing down the young couples fence posts and causing criminal damage. Boundary disputes are bitter, the unapologetic doctor told us after the hearing, when we called to her home at Graigueaverne House, Ballybrittas. Were fighting the fact I went down there and cut down a fence. And I did this is nasty stuff! There was a fella in here doing some work He had a chainsaw and I said: Could you do a little job for me? And he said: Fine. And I told him to cut down that fence. I cut down the fence in that I stood beside the man who was doing it and I supervised carefully the cutting of each fence post. It is a fence on my land. I know what the judge said. But we wont bother about what the judge said. Brennan, who purchased the 58 acres of land on which Graigueaverne House sits through her company Ballybrittas Farms Ltd in October 1991, said she was unhappy at the location of the boundary fence. But Judge Andrew Cody heard the fence had been the subject of an engineers inspection and was correctly located. A friend of the couple, whose property was damaged by Brennan, later told the Sunday World: They have been through three years of hell. They have lost the guts of 200,000 because of this so far. Its been three years of absolute and utter abuse. Judge Cody said he had given the defendant an opportunity to reflect on her actions. This young couple cant move into their home because the pole for the ESB is on her land, he said. He said the defendant was refusing to accept the findings of the court. He said the couple had paid her tens of thousands of euro for the land. She is not prepared to facilitate in any way these people she has terrorised, he remarked. Brennans next appearance before the court on December 12, in relation to the more recent public order offence, will be for sentencing. Laurence Culkin was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma more than a year ago at the age of 37 Staff from the Haematology unit at Sligo University Hospital at the start of the charity cycle on Friday monring. A Sligo man recovering from Multiple Myeloma says acceptance of the situation is the best way to deal with it. Laurence Culkin, from Dromore West, Sligo was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma more than a year ago at the age of 37. Since then, his life has changed a lot and now he is in the process of recovery. He feels that good advice from the doctors and the support from his family and friends helped him get through the tough phases of treatment. Laurence said, Roughly six months ago I started noticing small pains in my mid back region. Its very hard to describe or sort of distinguish exactly what it was. At first I was doing some kind of self-research and lots of yoga along with taking prescribed medicines from the GP. I thought it was just a strain and I might be able to kind of look after it myself. I even went to Accident and Emergency (A&E) at Sligo University Hospital once. They thought it was just a strained muscle because of my age and inaccuracy of the pain. Eventually, the pain kept getting worse and worse. I felt fatigue in my body and weakness but I just couldnt figure out why all this was happening. One day I had bend over to pick something up off the ground and I felt extreme pain. Later, we found out that my vertebrae had collapsed and three of my vertebrae had broken. So that day I went to my local doctor with the pain and he gave me painkillers. But the painkillers were not working, so I had to call an ambulance and get to the hospital. Even then they were still very confused about the problem and they were doing all sorts of tests, like blood tests, muscle tests and X-rays and scans. After a while they found some unusual proteins in my blood and then the Haematology team managed to work out that it was Myeloma or Blood cancer. A patient suffering with Multiple Myeloma would generally have a higher level of Paraprotein or M-protein in their blood, which are a kind of abnormal antibodies. Diagnosis was just the start of challenges that were lying ahead of Laurence. He said, I am still in recovery but feel much better now. I am at a stage called maintenance. I still feel back pain and fatigue, but obviously its not as bad as it was then. I have lots of medication going on. Last year in October I went through a process called Stem Cell transplant at Galway University Hospital. I was in the hospital for more than two weeks. Chemo and cell transplant are quite severe. I had many trips to Galway before and after the process for tests and preparations. Those few months were quite hard and after the procedure I was very tired and sore all over my body. It has affected me both physically and mentally. In February this year, my doctor in Sligo did more tests and said that the Chemo had worked and Stem Cell transplant was working well. So now I am slowly recovering. I am still not able to do much. I have not started working again as I was working in a restaurant in Dublin before being diagnosed. But I have got good support around me, and they have helped me be able to get out and socialise again. I can do some small stuff but not too much. Sligo University Hospital has helped me with physiotherapy and Sligo Cancer Support Centre has helped me with the mental therapy which is ongoing. The Sligo Cancer Support Centre is a charitable organisation that helps and supports cancer patients and their family through the difficult phase of treatment. For Laurence and his family, the diagnosis came as a shock and his parents Ciaran and Claire Culkin were naturally scared. However, they all became a big support for Laurence, and he was able to fight against the disease and win. Beforehand, I had never heard of Multiple Myeloma, but the hospital and the doctors did a very good job, explaining in detail about what to expect. They told me the plan like what we were going to do and the medication and the treatment and support. I was assigned special nurse contacts that I could talk to anytime and they would help me with stuff and lots of information. I did my own research too while the hospital was very good at reassuring and helping me with my treatment. The physiotherapy team helped me fully get back on my feet. When I got the news, I didnt try to hide it, instead I tried to tell as many close people as soon as possible. Everyone was shocked and some people were scared, but everyone was supportive. My family sort of rallied around me and then helped me in any way they could have. Getting cancer at my age was already very unusual. I was 37 at the time of diagnosis. I moved back to my parents house, and they took care of me. I had friends and family around me all the time and I think I was lucky as not everyone has this privilege. The disease and the whole treatment have affected me both physically and mentally. I lost a lot of weight, a lot of muscle and mobility. I also lost a lot of confidence in what I could do with my own body. I am working on all of this now. Physiotherapy is a kind of exercise or small training to get my body moving again and get my muscles working properly again. I am slowly building up my core strength. For the mental effects I would say, it was a lot take in, but I was never really too scared or panicky. The hospital had gone through everything and explained things to me. I had good support from friends and family so that gave me mental strength too. The worst period for me was the treatment in Galway, when I was going through chemotherapy and stem cell transplant. That was probably the hardest part and that was when I suffered the most mentally. I was in a lot of pain, and it was the worst which lasted a while. Staff from the Haematology unit at Sligo University Hospital at the start of the charity cycle on Friday monring. Now that Laurence is feeling better and trying to recover his body and mind, he has some advice for people who might be going through something similar in their lives. I am trying to get back to normal again and be confident in myself. Trying to bring myself to go out and do normal things, meet people, go for walks etc. With this whole experience I have learnt that we should try not to panic in such situations. For anyone who might be going through a similar situation I would say, remain as calm as possible and listen to the doctors. Talk to them as much as possible, ask questions and dont be afraid to ask for help or advice. Be open and honest to your friends and family, talk to them about it. I know some people might say I dont want to talk about it, but in my personal experience just being open and talking about it helps. Also, listen to your own body as well and if you feel something isnt going properly, then tell the doctors or nurses about it. I did the same and I received a good response, sometimes they talked me through and sometimes they would come to see me. We can put it in a way that acceptance of the situation would be the best way to deal with it. Whatever has happened you cannot really do anything about it, so dont try to hide it, instead try and deal with it as needed. As for the family members and friends, just communication and being there would be the greatest support. I got the support of my friends and it was really helpful. That support could be regular visits, or it could be just one text message. I have lots of friends that I havent seen for a long time, but people would just send messages, send GIFs. Even though they might seem like quite small gestures to that person, to me they were really important and I appreciated them. So having the support of friends and family, even just through communication is really important. It gave me strength to know that people were there and thinking of me. It was a great help. Similarly, as a community it is a great help when people participate in fundraisers like Wild Myeloma Way cycle or other events. These fundraising events help the organisations to reach more people like me and help them. I would not be able to participate but I would like people to participate and help the organisation raise awareness about Multiple Myeloma. A fundraising Wild Myeloma Way two day cycle from Sligo to Donegal and back got underway from Sligo University Hospital on Friday morning. Sligo based Chairperson Ger Walpole is an Advanced Nurse Practitioner at Sligo University Hospital. Multiple Myeloma Ireland is the only charitable organisation focused exclusively on supporting patients, families and carers with Multiple Myeloma and related conditions. Although myeloma is the second most common form of blood cancer, it only represents 1% of cancers. On average 384 patients in Ireland are diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma every year as shown by the most recent figures published by the National Cancer Register. Ger said, There was great excitement for the annual event coming to Sligo. The starting point was from Sligo University Hospital on Friday and we had patients, consultant nurses, family members, carers, colleagues and a group of staff from the local Abbvie plant participating in it. Some 70 participants registered for the event. She further said, Multiple Myeloma is a blood cancer which is very less known about. Thats why the diagnosis of Myeloma is often confusing and alarming for people. We are working hard at Myeloma Ireland to make people aware of what it is. "Our website has loads of information about it in different forms. There are podcasts available that were started during COVID, when we couldnt reach the patients directly. Ger Walpole (Advanced Nurse Practitioner) at Sligo University Hospital. We are constantly trying to educate patients and the podcasts prompt us to those who couldnt come to the hospital with their patients or family members. These have been great success. Every year September is the Cultural Awareness Month and all the charities in the country along with ourselves are promoting the Wild Myeloma Way cycle. Multiple Myeloma is a Chronic Cancer at the moment. Ten years ago, there were very little treatment available and people didnt live very long with the disease. But now with loads of research and development in the area and new drugs being developed, people are now living much longer and better lives. Ger said, We also run a support centre for patients in Sligo Cancer Support Centre on Wine street and its called Living Wild with Myeloma. This cancer mainly affects the blood and bone marrow of a person. For the diagnosis of this disease we have various tests like bone marrow test, blood test, CT scans or some other tests. In general people suffer with symptoms like having incidental fractures, recurring infections, anaemia or some other symptoms that might suggest the doctor to go for Myeloma tests. Ten years ago five years was the maximum a patient would have lived with Myeloma, but now they have got it expanding. There are various clinical trials going on for different drugs and treatments for blood cancer. Anyone under the age of 65 can be offered a stem cell transplant as well. Through the annual event Myeloma Ireland is trying to raise awareness of the cancer and make it less alarming for them if someone around them or themselves ever get diagnosed with Myeloma. Ger said, Sligo University Hospital has good facilities and team of specialist available for patients diagnosed with Myeloma. There are two Consultant Haematologists Dr Aine Burke and Dr Andrew John Hodgson, two clinical nurse specialists Edel Quinn and Grainne Gill and an Advanced Practitioner to take care of the patients. We are trying to support our patients in every way we can, we want to educate more and more people about Myeloma through our campaigns. The national service today launched its 2022 Annual Report. Calls about sharing intimate images non-consensually increased by almost 300pc last year, according to the Crime Victims Helplines (CVH) latest report. The national service today launched its 2022 Annual Report, which noted that 109 calls were made in relation to cyber-crime involving revenge porn a stark increase from the previous year, which saw just 29 calls of the same nature. The CVH also detailed an increase of 78pc in contacts relating to LGBTQ+ hate crimes and racist hate crimes in 2022, while calls concerned with online fraud doubled from 2021. A total of 5,828 contacts were made by service users in 2022, representing a 17.3pc increase compared to 2021 and reflecting the high demand for CVH services in Ireland. The CVH heard from victims of over 27 different types of crime, including burglary, theft, extortion, arson, and stalking. Like in years prior, assault and harassment were the most common types of crime that the CVH was contacted about in 2022. And contacts about domestic abuse-related crimes also saw an increase of 7pc compared to figures in 2021. Michele Puckhaber, Chief Executive, stated that Once again demand for our services increased significantly in 2022 with 17.3pc more contacts from those requiring support and assistance as a victim of crime. With online life becoming more and more prevalent in todays society it comes as no surprise to see this notable increase in contacts relating to cyber-crime in 2022. Minister for Justice Helen McEntee welcomed the report as she noted the importance of the CVH in supporting victims of crime. The report shows a 275pc increase in calls relating to non-consensual sharing of intimate images compared to the previous year, she said. In late 2021, my Department launched an awareness campaign to highlight that such action was now a crime under Cocos Law - the Harassment, Harmful Communications and Related Offences Act - which I commenced earlier that year. At least now, people who are subjected to this vile act are able to recognize it as a crime and find the support they need. The Crime Victims Helpline plays a vital role in supporting victims of crime and is an important partner to The Department of Justice. She added that she looks forward to continuing to work with Ms Puckhaber and the CVH team in the year ahead. John Jack Darmon was electrocuted while working on a fire brigade vehicle at the garage pit at Tara Street Station on August 23, 1938 The plaque honours Jack Darmon, whose death occurred at a time of considerable reorganisation within the Dublin Fire Brigade (Niall Carson/PA) A commemorative plaque for a firefighter who died while at work has been unveiled by Dublin Fire Brigade (DFB). John Jack Darmon was electrocuted while working on a fire brigade vehicle at the garage pit at Tara Street Station on August 23, 1938. The skilled firefighter, driver and mechanic left behind a wife and four children who lived on the married quarters of the station grounds. He joined DFB in 1922 and was one of the brigades motor drivers while the service was still using some horse-drawn carriages. His death occurred at a time of considerable reorganisation within the Dublin Fire Brigade, and the service said his passing was therefore overlooked and never properly marked by a memorial in the station. Fire brigade historian Las Fallon told the unveiling ceremony on Monday that Mr Darmon was also a member of the K Company, 3rd Battalion, Dublin Brigade during the War of Independence. Mr Darmons grandson, Colin, who travelled from Canada for the unveiling, was among a number of relatives who attended the ceremony. He said his father Tony, 88, and his aunt Kathleen, aged 92, are Mr Darmons two surviving children in Canada. My grandfather was a dedicated family man, who loved Dublin and loved his country of Ireland, he said. Jack Darmons plaque in Dublin (Niall Carson/PA) Were very proud of my grandfathers contribution to the Republic of Ireland and making it what it is today. Speaking at the unveiling of the Dublin City Council commemorative plaque, chief fire officer Dennis Keeley said: Dublin Fire Brigade are delighted to have the opportunity to mark and remember firefighter Darmon and welcome members of his family who have travelled here today for this occasion. Mr Keeley said the DFB is grateful to the council for the plaque honouring a firefighter who had slipped through the organisations long and proud history. It is the second plaque for the fire brigade under the Dublin City Council commemorative scheme. Mr Keeley said the plaques honour firefighters who paid the supreme price for their service. Dennis Keeley, chief fire officer with Dublin Fire Brigade (Niall Carson/PA) He added: Jack Darmons death in the line of duty was a tragedy for the brigade. Councillor Tom Brabazon said Mr Darmons plaque is a way to remember the sacrifices made by a man who lost his life in the service of the people of Dublin. Mr Brabazon said there would be two further plaques honouring firefighters in the future. He said the council also acknowledges the contributions and sacrifices of Mr Darmons successors in Dublin Fire Brigade. Mr Brabazon said: All the members of Dublin Fire Brigade provide a truly professional service responding to the worst of situations with compassion and dedication. I know all of us in the city are grateful for what they do. Dr Holohan said his wife had particularly been upset by remarks made by then Tanaiste Mr Varadkar Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has offered a personal apology to former chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan, who has written in a new memoir of hurt caused to his family. Dr Holohan said his wife had particularly been upset by remarks made by then Tanaiste Mr Varadkar on Claire Byrne Live when he said members of Nphet (the National Public Health Emergency Team) would never have to go on furlough like workers affected by lockdowns while suggesting some members had usurped the role of Government. Writing in his memoir We Need To Talk, which is released this week, Dr Holohan said his wife Emer interpreted the comments as being personalised against her husband and was very upset. She was terminally ill at the time and has since died. I acknowledge, and I think I did before, that I went too far in my remarks in that particular interview, almost three years ago now, the Taoiseach said. 'The Garden became a really important place' Dr. Tony Holohan on his late wife's love for nature I was very angry at the time at the way the advice from Nphet had changed very dramatically overnight. The Government wasn't consulted on that. It was briefed to media before the Government was informed, which left a lot of us [in Government] very frustrated, Mr Varadkar said in New York. But it wasn't right of me to make personalised criticisms about members and to question their motivations and their understanding as to how decisions impact on people. That wasn't fair, and I'm certainly sorry for that and regret it. The Sunday Independent carried exclusive extracts from Dr Holohans book at the weekend. In the eagerly awaited publication, he recounts how his late wife was left devastated, inconsolable and with a feeling of betrayal after watching Mr Varadkar criticise Nphet members on Claire Byrne Live on RTE One in early October 2020. In the interview, Varadkar was critical of Nphets decision to recommend a nationwide lockdown in response to rising case numbers at the time. He argued that, as public servants, they were not impacted by the consequences of such decisions. Dr Tony Holohan and Leo Varadkar. Photo: Gerry Mooney That wasnt fair or true, Holohan writes. We lived in the real world. We were impacted. Our families were impacted, financially and emotionally. Emer was slowly dying and would be cut off from all her friends and family in her last few months of life. He says Mr Varadkar did not apologise for the remarks, but later inquired as to his wifes well-being before going on to change his position on Nphets recommendation to implement a lockdown. Speaking in New York today, the Taoiseach also acknowledged serious Government mistakes during the pandemic, and said it was a mistake to lift lockdown for Christmas 2020. In relation to the first Christmas lockdown (in 2020) I think on reflection, both Nphet and the Government made the wrong call, said Mr Varadkar. Nphet proposed one form of reopening, which would have meant a lot of social interactions, and we in Government proposed a different reopening plan, which involved some hospitality and some private houses. In retrospect, there shouldn't have been any opening up at all, because of the Alpha variant (which aggressively appeared in Britain in late November). And that changed things fundamentally. But let's not forget the advice from Nphet at the time initially was that the Alpha variant was not an issue of concern. On Dr Holohans criticism of the lifting of lockdown for a meaningful Christmas, as politicians put it, Mr Varadkar said: I think everyone involved in that time should recognise that we got most things right and did a good job for the country. We are going to have a Covid inquiry. Ill look for the Terms of Reference to be brought to Government in the next few weeks. And I think that inquiry will be able to explore a lot of the different issues. Leo Varadkar addresses the United Nations Sustainable Development Forum today. Photo: AP It's not going to be about putting anyone in the dock. There won't be a witch hunt. But it will be about finding out what we did right and what we did wrong. I remember at the very start of the pandemic, Paul Reid of the HSE saying that we'd probably get about 70pc of things right, and maybe 30pc of things wrong. And that was inevitable, given that nobody had dealt with a pandemic of this nature before. And I think we did [get that ratio of right to wrong]. Bear in mind that in Ireland we had one of the lowest excess mortality rates in the world, much lower than many of our neighbours. And also our economy recovered and bounced back much more quickly. So I think, in the end, all of us involved in making those decisions, whether it was HSE, or Nphet or the Department of Health and the Government, we took the right ones most of the time. But nobody was always right. And we were slow on uptake with masks and some aspects of lockdown were probably not necessary. I think schools were closed for too long, particularly special schools. Im not sure it was necessary to suspend construction and homebuilding for so long. And a lot of that was driven by public health advice. So, you know, I'd hope everyone will be reflective about their role during that period. The Taoiseach said he hoped the inquiry would be established by the end of the year, and a panel of names for the chairperson would shortly be drawn up. It's remarkable how much of the work has been done already. There have been 20 or 30 different reviews done by different Government agencies or Departments to date, he said. They've been very discrete [standalone]. But a lot of the background work is done already. But I think fundamentally, it's about understanding what did happen during that difficult two or three-year period what we did right, what we did wrong, and what we can learn for future major public health emergencies, which will happen but I think will be different. He said the inquiry should also consider various effects of Covid, such as lengthy school closures and issues with other forms of health care. I think we're experiencing some of the longer-term impacts of the lockdowns and the closures, whether it was delayed health care, and all the problems that's causing now, the loss of a significant period of housing construction, children being away from school for so long, and the impact that had on their mental health, he said. I was always of the view at the time that we needed to take into account not just the short-term effects of restrictive measures like lockdowns, but also the long-term impact that might have on society. A male cyclist was also hurt during incident that happened at around 10am, however his injuries believed to be non-life-threatening. A woman was seriously injured in a crash between two cyclists in Dublin this morning. The female cyclist rushed to the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, where she is being treated for serious injuries. A male cyclist was also hurt during the incident that happened at around 10am, however his injuries believed to be non life-threatening. The accident happened on Botanic Road in Glasnevin, on the citys northside. The road was closed for a time after the incident, with major traffic delays in the area, but has now reopened. Gardai are appealing to anyone with information or who may have witnessed the collision to contact them. Any road users or pedestrians who may have camera footage (including dash-cam), and were travelling in the area of Botanic Road or Iona Road, Glasnevin, Dublin this morning between 9am and 10:30am, are asked to make this footage available to gardai, a spokesperspon said. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Mountjoy Garda Station on 01 666 8600, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any garda station. Two University of Waikato researchers have been shoulder-tapped as investigators within the newly launched US$30million NSF Center for Braiding Indigenous Knowledges and Science based at the University of Massachusetts Amherst in the United States. The CBIKS centre is about connecting Indigenous knowledge with mainstream Western sciences to create new ways to address some of the most pressing issues of our time: climate change, including impacts on ecosystems; the threat to irreplaceable archaeological sites, sacred places, and cultural heritage; and the issues around changing food systems, all of which disproportionately affect Indigenous communities. The research team brings together the worlds leading Indigenous natural, environmental, and social scientists, representing Native American, First Nations, Metis, Native Hawaiian, Alaska Native, Maori and Aboriginal Australian peoples. Community-based research and place-based studies will be done in partnership with Indigenous communities in eight international hubs. Director of Te Kotahi Research Institute Associate Professor Maui Hudson. Photo: Supplied. Director of Te Kotahi Research Institute Associate Professor Maui Hudson (Te Whakatohea, Ngaruahine, and Te Mahurehure) and Senior Lecturer Dr Haki Tuaupiki (Waikato, Ngati Tuwharetoa) at Te Pua Wananga ki te Ao - Faculty of Maori and Indigenous Studies will work as part of the New Zealand contingent based at the Pacific Hub. Combining Indigenous and mainstream Western sciences to address complex global problems is an important step towards more equitable partnerships with Indigenous communities, the co-production of knowledge, and the development of place-based, community-centred solutions, says Associate Professor Hudson. Indigenous ancestral knowledge, with thousands of years of articulation and practice, has always been important and extremely valuable, never more so than now. "This international collaboration of Indigenous leaders and experts will see us utilise Indigenous ancestral wisdom in an ethical and culturally grounded way with the best of Western science to find solutions to climate change for our communities and the world. Dr Tuaupiki is Co-Director of the Pacific Hub alongside Kelley Uyeoka from the cultural resource management non-profit Huliauapaa in Hawaii. Our work will focus on food sovereignty, traditional food restoration, wahi kupuna (ancestral spaces) stewardship, and voyaging and navigation responses to climate change," says Dr Tuaupiki. Associate Professor Hudson will co-lead the Indigenous Data Sovereignty Working Group. "This work is primarily about developing approaches and processes that enable the hubs and different studies to share traditional knowledge in the context of the different research activities while protecting that knowledge and ensuring it is not misappropriated," says Associate Professor Hudson. Alongside research, CBIKS has an important educational mission. The centre will train postdoctoral researchers and graduate research assistants. Workshops and camps for young people and government agencies will share knowledge and processes for braiding Indigenous knowledge. Associate Professor Hudson says that as part of the CBIKS Indigenous Science Study Abroad Program, the University of Waikato will also host students travelling from U.S.-based CBIKS Hub institutions. Though she has been a familiar face on television since she was 13 years old, in Yara Shahidis home, the small screen was rarely turned on. It wasnt until I started on Black-ish that we started watching TV during the week, but only Wednesdays, when the show was on, she recalls via video call. The family comedy lasted eight seasons. It received 18 Emmy nominations and seven Golden Globe nominations, and it made Shahidi grow up in front of the cameras. Today she shows that its possible to grow up within the industry without falling off course, but only with help: Ive had a lot of luck with my family. Theyre a guide in my life. Miles Brown, Yara Shahidi, Marsai Martin, Marcus Scribner and Tracee Ellis Ross in one of the first episodes of Black-ish in 2015. In Shahidis home, the strict rules came along with lessons. Many, especially during the difficult years of adolescence, had to do with beauty: From an early age my mother was very intentional in teaching me to love my curls and my skin. I always had my family as an example, and as they look like me, I grew up thinking that I was beautiful too. Until puberty came: Suddenly all the images around me started to influence me more. I went from having my own style to wanting a dress that everyone else wore. Fortunately that phase didnt last long, but I remember perfectly going from feeling good about myself and confident to doubting everything and getting nervous about breaking out. Shahidi uses the tools she has today to revisit her adolescence. I was on my schools debate team, and on the team we all had different origins, everyone Black or Latino and with curly hair. Before a big debate, the girls knew without anyone telling us that we had to straighten our hair for a more professional image. Becoming part of the most-viewed television series in the United States didnt help: At 13 I wore two sets of eyelashes, always blush, lipstick I felt like I wasnt ready for the world if I wasnt wearing makeup. I was really young to be so dependent on makeup. But my parents helped me reconstruct my confidence. Now I understand makeup and taking care of my body as accessories of who I am, complements that I can use to be creative and have fun. Theres less anxiety and nervousness. Today, she is a businesswoman. Since 2018, along with her mother, she has produced Grown-ish, a spin-off of the series that made her famous. It all started because I got really evolved in all the behind-the-scenes. Basically I did the work of a producer without calling it that, until one day the show creator told me, No, what youre doing is producing. So I realized how much I liked it. My mother and I are partners, and we take on projects where we can tell creative stories and build teams. Its really nice because shes my best friend and we share values. Grown-ish was the initial contact, and in October our first movie comes out. Sitting in Bars with Cake, her debut as a feature film producer, premiered September 8 on Amazon Prime. Shahidi also stars in the story about friendship. Last spring she became Tinkerbell in Peter Pan and Wendy, a new adaptation of J.M. Barries classic that infuriated reactionaries because of its Black fairy. When it comes to choosing a new project, I have two things in mind. First, if its a film or a series that I would want to see. I want to do fun, creative things, because Im young. But I also like for it to have values and a purpose. That doesnt mean that every job has to be activism. Sometimes theyre subtle things like playing with TInkerbell. I loved playing that fantasy that influenced me so much and sharing it with a new generation of kids. The purpose of each project doesnt have to be obvious, but it should have something I love and that I connect with. Yara Shahidi as Tinkerbell in an image from Peter Pan & Wendy (2023). Changing the images that shape the world is not a small task. Thats why she has donned a golden suit of armor in the latest Jean Paul Gaultier campaign, as the goddess of the Divine fragrance: I thought it was a way to do something new but aligned with my values, because its about embracing everything a woman can be. When she takes off the corset, shes a twenty-something who loves life. The last time I felt divine was in a concert. I love how live music makes me feel. Being with my friends, dancingits absolutely divine! (l) Yara Shahidi at a promotional event. (r) The vegan fragrance that she represents, Gaultier Divine Eau de Parfum, from Jean Paul Gaultier. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition A Tauranga Boys' College band is celebrating after winning third place overall in this year's Smokefreerockquest national final on the weekend. Unit 51, a band at Tauranga Boys College, have placed third nationally at Saturday night's National Final of Smokefreerockquest at Q Theatre held in Auckland. The band, made up of Otto Blake-Palmer on bass, Aaron McDaniel on drums, and Daniel Leabourn on vocals and guitar win $3000 in musical equipment from NZ Rockshop. Additionally, Daniel won the Musicianship Award, which has a prize of $500 cash. At the event the National Director of Te Whatu Ora - National Public Health Service Nick Chamberlain addressed the Top 10 national finalists to congratulate them, and recognised the impact the Covid pandemic had made on them. I want to acknowledge all of you, whether youre a winner or youre not, for your talent and commitment," says Nick. Youve had to call on great resilience in recent years with disruption in school supporting your band mates, your classmates, your schoolmates and your families. "It cant have been easy staying focused on your goals. And for some, I know getting back into music was a really important pathway to getting back into the rhythm of school and being with your friends again. "Well done for giving space and energy to your art and creativity. The judges at the event were Mikhal Norris - NZME, Jeff Newton - NZ On Air, Ellie Smith - Live Nation, and musicians - Matt Warman, Nat Hutton, and Lepani. Smokefreerockquest is made possible by the support of Te Tahuhu o te Matauranga - The Ministry of Education, The Wright Family Foundation, NZ Rockshop, Ministry of Youth Development, Creative NZ, Four Winds Foundation, Lion Foundation, and Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand. The full list of awards made at the national final is: 1st placed band: Parkdale - Mount Albert Grammar School, Selwyn College 2nd placed band: Bleeding Star - Wellington High School, Hutt Valley High School 3rd placed band: Unit 51 - Tauranga Boys College 1st placed solo/duo: Salem - Gisborne Boys High School 2nd placed solo/duo: JOLA BURNS - Nayland College, Nelson College For Girls Musicianship Award: Daniel Leabourn of Unit 51 - Tauranga Boys College Smokefree Best Vocals Award: Ilaisa'ane Tokelau Jr of M1 - James Cook High School ZM Best Song Award: Parkdale - Mount Albert Grammar School, Selwyn College APRA Lyric Award: Alyssa Harley - Whanganui High School Rockshop Electronic Performance Award: Flynn Adamson - Middleton Grange School The National Public Health Service, Te Whatu Ora, Director of Health Promotion Kathrine Clarke, says that Smokefreerockquest, and Smokefree Tangata Beats which runs alongside it, are important kaupapa for our communities. Young People have amazing talent and showcasing this is important," says Kathrine. "Positive outlets such as Smokefreerockquest, Smokefree Tangata Beats should be celebrated. This is why we are proud to have supported Smokefreerockquest and Smokefree Tangata Beats for nearly 35 years. "Smoking-related long-term conditions can have a huge impact on our communities. It is the youth of today who will carry this kaupapa forward by encouraging their peers and whanau to stop smoking or to not start. Smokefreerockquest and Smokefree Tangata Beats is such an important kaupapa for ourcommunities. We love seeing our rangatahi come together with resilience, mana andcreativity to express themselves through music. "Being smokefree and vapefree means honouring your art and performing at your best. It means youre looking after your wellbeing and wairua and celebrating every breath. Smokefreerockquest, powered by Rockshop, has national winners prize packages for bands and solo/duo winners that includes $22,000 in Rockshop vouchers, $16,000 NZ On Air recording, video and promo package, a photo shoot and branding package from Imaginary Friends. There is also the Musicianship Award, the APRA (Australasian Performing Right Association) Lyric Award, Rockshop Electronic Performance Award, ZM Best Song Award, and Vocals Award. Musical successes from Smokefreerockquest include Broods, Marlon Williams, Fazerdaze, Aldous Harding, Nadia Reid, Drax Project, Six60, Troy Kingi, Leisure, Opshop, Evermore, Ladyhawke, Joel Little, Theres A Tuesday, Teeks, Tiny Ruins, Brooke Fraser, Anika Moa, Chelsea Jade, Die!Die!Die!, Leroy Clampitt, Robinson, Steriogram, Phoenix Foundation, Skinny Hobos, Kimbra, Aaradhna, The Black Seeds, Bic Runga, and Balu Brigada. Smokefree Tangata Beats standout successes include Alien Weaponry, Strangely Arousing, and Nesian Mystik, the only New Zealand band to ever have ten singles all certified gold or platinum. Prizes: 1st place band wins - $10k Musical equipment from the Rockshop, plus an $8k NZ On Air Recording and Video Grant, and promotion, mentoring and on-going support from the Rockquest Promotions team 2nd place band wins - $5k Musical equipment from the Rockshop 3rd place band wins - $3k Musical Equipment from the Rockshop 1st place solo/duo wins - $3k Musical Equipment from the Rockshop, plus Recording and Music Video from NZ on Air 2nd place solo/duo wins - $1k Musical Equipment from the Rockshop ZM Best Song Award wins - a song professionally recorded Musicianship Award wins - $500 cash Smokefree Best Vocals Award wins - $500 cash APRA Lyric Award wins - $500 cash Rockshop Electronic Performance Award wins - Ableton Push 2 Live Performance Instrument USB/MIDI Controller, and Ableton Live 11 Suite Edition Music Production Software The news that the Minden Lookout will have thousands of dollars worth of repairs made is delighting members of the Bethlehem Te Puna Lions who built the structure decades ago. Minden Lookout in Te Puna is one of three local attractions that Western Bay of Plenty District Council has been granted tourism funding for, thanks to a Government grant and Council co-funding. The Minden Lookout was one of the first big projects the club got involved with, along with the clubrooms at Park, says Bethlehem Te Puna Lions club member Ron Stephen. Back in the 1970s when the lookout was built, the club was known as the Omokoroa Te Puna Lions. We changed our name in the early 90s to Bethlehem Te Puna, as another club was formed at Omokoroa. The club built the Minden Lookout 45 years ago, from 1977 1979. Tauranga Electric Power Board donated the hardwood poles they were ex-power poles. The Lions constructed it, and it took about 18 months to get it completed, says Ron. The late Brian Wright was involved. And Robert Anderson, myself, Barry Roach, and Tim Higgerty the rest of the club mucked in and we got the job done. The club is proud that their structure has become what Ron says is a distinguished landmark, and over the years they have used the lookout to hold various fundraising events. In August last year we had a Diabetes Foundation breakfast up there. The Minden Lookout offers a sweeping panorama of the District, but has been temporarily closed since March 2023, while the viewing platforms condition was under investigation. With the health and safety measures now, the steps dont meet the standards and its taped off. Ron says some of the timber treatment processes in the 70s wouldnt meet standards now. The tourism funding will be utilised for repairs to the structure. Im thrilled to know that the council will bring it up to standards. Western Bay of Plenty District Council has been granted $255,000 across three projects: Minden Lookout repairs ($125,000); Te Tawa ki Tahataharoa access trail beside the Wairoa River ($100,000) and the Kaikokopu Trail between Paengaroa and Okere Falls ($30,000). This will improve opportunities to take in the scenic sights of the Western Bay of Plenty, thanks to the Government grant and Council co-funding. The view from the Minden Lookout. Photo: John Borren/SunLive. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employments Tourism Infrastructure Fund exists to help Councils across New Zealand create and manage tourism infrastructure. Councils infrastructure services general manager Cedric Crow welcomes the funding. These grants, coupled with co-funding from council, will greatly improve how we all enjoy these local gems. Were so pleased we can make these repairs to enhance what we already have to offer. Were really proud of our home, and this funding will go some way to growing the experience that our local whanau and visitors have in this beautiful part of New Zealand. Repairs will also be carried out to Te Tawa Ki Tahataharoa Shared Path in Te Puna, in partnership with Tangata Whenua. The path provides access to the important wetland and the mahi will improve the path's resilience to future severe weather events. Repairs at Kaikokopu Trail will be focused near the forestry section, approximately one kilometre from Linchenstein Road. This trail has been badly damaged from severe rain events earlier this year resulting in the hard decision to discourage using it. With this funding and Councils matching contribution, Council can now commit resources to get on with these repairs and complete them as soon as possible. Were sure this will be welcome news to those who know and love these spots already, says Cedric. You can read more about the Tourism Infrastructure Fund on the Beehive website. Maximum heat limits are needed to protect the vulnerable in rest homes and childcare centres, a climate change researcher is urging the government. As temperatures and New Zealand's elderly population rise, more people will be at risk from heat stress. Heat already kills more than a dozen New Zealanders a year, and that is expected to get worse as temperatures increase. NIWA climate scientist Gregor Macara says the number of days which feel uncomfortably hot will rise as global heating pushes up average temperatures and the frequency of hot extremes. He has already noticed changes in seasonal weather summaries, even in his hometown of chilly Invercargill. University of Waikato climate change lecturer Luke Harrington says the hottest days of the year have already warmed by more than half a degree Celsius for many New Zealand cities. A city like Auckland is expected to see the number of days hotter than 29C or 30C rise more with further heating. Cities with smaller temperature ranges such as Auckland and Hamilton may face higher risks, research by Dr Harrington and professor Dave Frame has shown. Because their temperatures are more even, their hot spells tend to be longer, with less reprieve overnight. This would not just mean more beach days. A rise in temperatures and longer hot spells will mean more than beach days. Photo: NIWA/Ben Noll. Dr Harrington cites international research showing between one and eight percent of all warm season deaths could be attributed to the weather. Although New Zealand will not experience the extreme heat seen in places such as Australia, research from climates as varied as Scandinavia and the tropics showed adverse health impacts happened when temperatures soared above what was normal for that area, he said. What counted as dangerously hot depended on what people are used to and what their built environment is like, with plenty of cooling trees and reliable air-conditioning helping, as well as behavioural adaptations such as "not going out for a run in the middle of the day", Dr Harrington says. Heat deaths are often recorded under heart disease or other causes, says GP Dermot Coffey, a representative for OraTaiao: The NZ Climate and Health Council. But epidemiologists could look back on heat waves and work out how many people were tipped over the edge, who would otherwise have stayed alive. Heat stress increases cardiac stress and the risk of renal failure, causing health impacts long before the point where a person would actually "cook" to death. But heat is often a less obvious killer than a climate-worsened storm event, such as the deadly flooding in Esk Valley in February, he says. The Ministry of Education says it is currently appointing a working group on early childcare, which may consider introducing maximum temperatures. Photo: RNZ/ Dan Cook. The Ministry of Education says it is currently appointing a working group on early childcare, which may consider introducing maximum temperatures. Photo: RNZ/ Dan Cook. Most at risk are the elderly, young children, and those on common medications such as heart medicines or anti-depressants. These groups may not be able to regulate their body temperature quite so well, for example by sweating, Dr Coffey says. While people with mental health conditions such as schizophrenia could have a much higher risk. Although research was still ongoing, Dr Harrington says early indications are that Maori and Pacific Islanders are also more vulnerable. But he says we can prepare. In Paris, vulnerable residents can sign up for a door-knocking service, to make sure they were okay when a heat wave hits. In Aotearoa, MetService has started a trial of heat alerts during the summer months. Dr Harrington wants the government to introduce maximum heat standards for early childhood and aged care facilities, which currently have minimum temperatures but no legal maximum. If New Zealand keeps building structures which don't keep vulnerable people cool enough, the country is setting itself up for greater health impacts down the line, he says. Dr Coffey says he "completely agrees" - and believes there should be standards already, in particular for aged care. There's evidence heat can be an issue even at current temperatures. The Ministry of Health says it's not aware of a maximum heat limit for aged care facilities, but they are required to have a window and appropriate heating and ventilation. The Ministry of Education says it's currently appointing a working group on early childcare, which might consider introducing maximum temperatures. Macara says a major determinant of heat stress will be how much countries can reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by, with the number of riskily hot days projected for the future heavily dependent on the levels of heating emissions. A recent UN review found the Paris Agreement had brought projected temperatures down considerably, but countries needed to do much more. -Eloise Gibson/RNZ. New driver licensing services for Opotiki will open the door to more prospective drivers and safer roads. On September 20, Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency and Vehicle Testing NZ will open a new route for Class 1 driver licence testing in Opotiki. This means residents will no longer need to travel to Whakatane to sit their practical tests, saving them time and money. We know that getting a driver licence is a big step in helping people achieve independence and access to training and work opportunities, so its great to be offering this option in Opotiki, says Waka Kotahi Waikato and Bay of Plenty regional relationships director David Speirs. VTNZ national technical manager Craig Basher says VTNZ is very pleased to work with Waka Kotahi to improve and expand driver testing services. We will have a driver testing officer in Opotiki each fortnight and will assess demand over the coming months and adjust as needed if it is higher than expected. Bookings are open now and I recommend that those wanting to sit their practical Class 1 restricted or full licence get in quick, as new services tend to fill up fast. New community-based services Local organisation Eastbay REAP (Rural Education Activities Programme) will be employing two community driver testing officers to test students attending their driver licensing programme in Opotiki. The CTDO role was introduced by Waka Kotahi in June 2022 to offer people facing barriers getting their licence another option to public testing services. There are currently 16 CDTOs nationwide. We know this will provide our hard to reach whanau with another option, having someone from their own community testing them for their driver licence, says Eastbay REAP CEO, Dr Ryan Morrison. Previous trials have shown great results for tests where community testing officers are involved. The combination of a local testing route and local testing officers will be a game changer for increasing the number of safe and licensed drivers in our region. Eastbay REAP has also been contracted to provide mobile theory testing in the Opotiki district, the first community provider in New Zealand. Dr Morrison says it will provide the test in a range of settings, including remote communities, and at marae and kura. Eastbay REAP will be responding to community requests on where to take the service. Were excited to provide our rural whanau with access to an essential service. We see licensing as a human right that enables whanau to travel safely in their community, to get to work, school, health services etc Both initiatives are part of the cross-agency Driver Licensing Improvement Programme, led by Waka Kotahi, to improve access to driver licensing. The new driver licence testing route combined with a testing officer, two community testing officers and the mobile theory testing will mean much easier access to driver licences for our people, says Opotiki Mayor David Moore. Safer roads for everyone Providing communities with new practical driver testing routes and community-based services are some of the first solutions from the cross-agency Driver Licensing Improvement Programme, led by Waka Kotahi. Opotiki is the fifth test route established in the last 12 months. Others have been established in Waipukurau, Wairoa, Kaikohe, and Dargaville. David Speirs says as well as individual benefits there's an important shared advantage; Having more trained and licensed drivers makes our roads safer for everyone. People can book their practical driver licence test in Opotiki on the Waka Kotahi website: https://online.nzta.govt.nz/licence-test/ Hay fever season could be worse than usual, with experts predicting El Nino will kick pollen production into overdrive. For many New Zealanders hay fever is a minor annoyance causing itches and sniffles, but for some it can be debilitating. Allergy NZ chief executive Mark Dixon says the worst symptoms could trap people indoors. "They struggle to get out of bed. "The pain in their sinuses, at the front of their forehead, and high in their nasal cavity, there's so much pressure there that they can't go to work." Dixon says many countries included pollen counts in their weather forecasts. "We need hard data. "It would be really useful to have [forecasters] read pollen counts around the regions so that people who are allergic to pollen can organise and manage their day differently." While countries like Australia and Japan use sensors to broadcast up-to-date measures of pollen in the air, New Zealand doesn't. Dr David Fountain lives in a small house on the outskirts of Palmerston North, surrounded by plants and trees. He is MetService's Pollen Forecaster. "You'd think I'd have good scientific equipment available to do that." "But I use phenology, which is old-fashioned observation. It's knowledge based on 40 years of watching plants and trees." Dr Fountain says his method had been refined over his decades of experience as a Botanist at Massey University. "I'm surrounded by plants that I watch. "Pine is a good example of what I can predict, pine started [releasing pollen] where I am at the very end of July - I could see it, visually." "Up north it was a week or so earlier, and down south I have people who report to me." After a wet year throughout New Zealand, El Nino was expected to bring hot and dry weather. Dr Fountain says the change in temperature is likely to jump start the pollen season. "The El Nino situation will bring an ehanced pollen season. "It's likely to be accelerated and higher." Pollen is already causing havoc for some people. That isn't all. "In the future, with climate change, increased carbon dioxide results in increased temperatures, longer pollen seasons, maybe pollen seasons that start earlier and end later." Other experts are asking the Government to invest in pollen sensors to collect more precise data. Professor Rewi Newnham, head of Victoria University's School of Science in Society, says New Zealand is behind the times. "Pollen sensing or monitoring, measuring pollen in the air, that's something that happens routinely in many parts of the world. "We just haven't really, for whatever reason, had the capacity or the wherewithal to do it in New Zealand." University of Auckland pharmacy researcher Amy Chan said sensors in Australia were gathering valuable data. "The Brisbane pollen sensor was able to show that the amount of pollen they were getting was triple the amount they were getting a decade ago. "That's the sort of data we would like to know for New Zealand." Last year Dr Chan set up her own sensor for the university. "We established a pollen sensor on the top of Auckland Museum, which will provide the first airborne pollen measuring we've had in New Zealand since 1988." But Dr Fountain says the sensors might not be worth the cost. "Personally I think it's overrated. "Any funding would best be put into the bio-chemical side of pollen, which is the allergens themselves, and the clinical side, the effect of the pollen on the respiratory system." Dr Fountain said pollen contained proteins that many people were allergic to, causing cold-like symptoms when ingested. "Pollen grains are dry, and the first thing they do on contact with any wet surface is take up water. "Proteins come out into the water, and this is what happens in our nose. The proteins in almost all instances are allergenic." He says just 10 per cent of trees released pollen into the air, with most spreading their pollen through insects or other means. "Our Maori population, before colonisation, probably had no hay fever at all," he says. "All of our pollen, 99 percent, comes from introduced European species." Dr Amy Chan says demand for antihistamines and other allergy medications are keeping her busy in her secondary role as a pharmacist. "With increasing winter pressures, and post-Covid, the workforce we need to meet the demand isn't sufficient. "We've seen quite a few pharmacies close down as well, so that's putting a lot of pressure on the profession." Amy Chan says hay fever sufferers should start taking medication early to boost their protection, and recommended wearing a mask outdoors to block pollen. Dr Fountain agrees. He says masks are especially popular in Japan, where clouds of pollen from the native cedar trees would sweep over cities and cause sneezing fits. "They effectively cut out pollen from getting into our lungs." -Felix Walton/RNZ. Labour Party leader Chris Hipkins is in Tauranga today making stops across the city to discuss his partys policy and the impact poor dental care is having on the health system. He's on the campaign trail, and is keeping a tight schedule in the city which typically favours blue. Hipkins made stops at a community housing block at Mangatawa Papamoa Blocks Inc, which is using renewable energy to generate electricity, and a Kainga Ora development to mark the completion of 41 public houses. The Labour leader then stopped by Tauranga Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, to discuss how the health system is coping with poor dental care across the country. Speaking at the Papamoa Kainga Ora development, Hipkins took a swipe at the coalition of chaos, and Destiny Church - which he says was behind some of the disruption seen on the campaign trail. Hipkins adds Destiny Church in particular played a role and asked them to get out of the way of the democratic process. He also accused the coalition of chaos of being more focused on cutting things than New Zealands future. Photo: Taylor Rice/SunLive. The Labour Party leader even stopped by the vandalised Simon Bridges sign from the 2014 election which has been hanging at the Tauranga Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery clinic after it was won at an auction. Commenting on the sign, Hipkins says Bridges, Tauranga former MP, looks a lot younger in the doctored election sign from almost a decade ago. Speaking to Hipkins at the oral surgery facility, oral maxillofacial surgeon John Bridgman says the amount of serious infections are increasing, they are often life threatening, and are becoming more predominant in both males and in Maori. John adds the underlying issue with people neglecting their dental health which often leads to serious infections, is the financial pressure which is put on by expensive health costs. Photo: Taylor Rice/SunLive. Earlier in the campaign, Labour promised free basic dental care for those under 30 years old. If elected, they plan to introduce it in stages according to age groups, starting in 2025, with everyone under 30 able to access free annual check-ups, teeth cleaning, basic fillings and extractions by 2026. New Zealand has some of the highest recorded rates of unmet need for adult dental care overwhelmingly because of cost, Labour leader Chris Hipkins said when the policy was announced. In 2022 alone, 1.5 million Kiwis didnt visit a dentist because it was just too expensive. Extending free basic dental care is a huge move and one which will ultimately benefit all New Zealanders." The party estimates the free dental care policy could cover about 800,000 people. - Additional reporting by RNZ and Benn Bathgate/Stuff. Almudena Nogues Malaga Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram It's going to be another wet week for much of Spain. The arrival of a new 'dana' (an isolated depression at high levels) will complicate the weather from tomorrow, Tuesday, leaving in its wake "rain and stormy showers, which could locally be strong in intensity, will be persistent and could also be accompanied by hail," in areas of the east of the mainland and the Balearic Islands, according to the spokesperson for the state weather agency (Aemet) Ruben del Campo. After a Monday of transition (with highs of 31C in Malaga city), instability will return to the province from Tuesday onwards. At the moment, the Aemet has set the possibility of rainfall in Malaga at 85% from tomorrow afternoon. Temperatures will also fall: the mercury will not exceed 27 degrees. "In the Andalusian Mediterranean coast areas there is a greater probability of thunderstorms tomorrow and early Wednesday morning. At the moment, the two main weather models place the Dana in the area around the Gulf of Cadiz, but with some differences. The greatest probability of showers will be tomorrow evening and early morning in the province of Almeria and the easternmost part of Granada and Jaen provinces, where yellow weather warnings have just been activated", explained local weather expert Jose Luis Escudero in his SUR blog 'Tormentas y Rayos' (Storms and Lightning) . At the moment, the Aemet forecast for Andalucia on Tuesday is "partly cloudy skies with intervals of high clouds, increasing during the day to cloudy from south to north, without ruling out rain showers, more intense from the afternoon onwards, when they will be accompanied by thunderstorms and may be locally strong. The maximum temperatures will drop on the Mediterranean slope and in the other areas, while the winds will blow lightly, veering to the east on the Mediterranean slope. Looking ahead to Wednesday, the state weather agency forecasts a worse scenario in the region, with "cloudy or overcast skies with showers and widespread thunderstorms, which may be locally strong or persistent" at the start of the day. During the afternoon the situation will tend to normalise. In Malaga, the probability of rain is 65% until midday, when the percentage drops to an anecdotal 5%. One of the car parks where the new passes can be used. Andrea Jimenez Marbella Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram Parking in the centre of Marbella is about to get much cheaper from this month. The town hall and the concessionary company Telpark have agreed to slash the price per day in three car parks in the town centre to just 1.50 euros for 12 hours a day, if regular users sign up to the new scheme. Discounts have been offered in recent years with the aim of promoting local shopping and businesses. "But the reduction this year is greater than last year, when the price was 2.50 euros," said the town's head of traffic and transport, Baldomero Leon. The scheme will be in operation at the Mercado, Centro Marbella and Las Terrazas car parks and once registered and paid for the user access passes will be valid for two years, even on public holidays. How do I apply for the discount scheme? The first step is to download the Telpark mobile application. In the 'multipass' section you can choose from one of the Marbella three car parks included in the promotion. There are three options; 5, 10 and 20 uses. You must fill in the details of the registration number and the model of car. Once the vehicle has entered the car park, the 12 hours will start ticking down until the vehicle is removed. Only one entry and exit can be made for each use, so that if the vehicle is driven away and then parked in the car park a second time on the same day, one more use will be registered. Pilar R. Quiros Malaga Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram Malaga City Council's municpal pet cemetery project, which still awaits final approval after the planning process started in 2016, is already in great demand among pet owners. And the council has now changed its local bylaws so that Parcemasa can carry out cremation and burial services at the site. A table of fees approved by a committee this Monday 18 September established how much the services will cost at the Parque del Recuerdo del Parque Cementerio de Malaga. The cremation of pets weighing less than 30kg will cost 170 euros, and those weighing more than 30kg will cost 190 euros, according to the list of prices. The burial of pets, under or over 30kg, for 10 years will cost 250 euros, which can be paid annually of 25 euros. But the prices attracted criticism among the opposition, PSOE and Con Malaga arguing the prices were not well-specified in a report presented to councillors during the first ordinary committee of the council's term of office. Manager of Parcemasa Federico Souviron said that the prices were the result of a study carried out among the four private cemeteries already existing in Spain, and then the prices had then been reduced. The project, which was approved by the environment committee, must now pass through the municipal plenary, a 30-day public information period, and must return to the chamber for final approval. It is estimated that the cemetery could be operational as early as December. General Motors CEO Mary Barra speaks during the opening of contract talks with the United Auto Workers on July 16, 2019, in Detroit. Its been a central argument for the United Auto Workers union: If Detroits three automakers raised CEO pay by 40% over the past four years, workers should get similar raises. UAW President Shawn Fain has repeatedly cited the figure, contrasting it with the 6% pay raises autoworkers have received since their last contract in 2019. He opened negotiations with a demand for a similar 40% wage increase over four years, along with the return of pensions and cost of living increases. The UAW has since lowered its demand to a 36% wage increase but the two sides remain far apart in contract talks, triggering a strike. Fains focus on CEO pay is part of a growing trend of emboldened labor unions citing the wealth gap between workers and the top bosses to bolster demand for better pay and working conditions. In June, Netflix shareholders rejected executive pay packages in a nonbinding vote, just days after the Writers Guild of America wrote letters urging investors to vote against the pay proposals, saying it would be inappropriate amid Hollywoods ongoing strike by writers. The WGA wrote similar letters targeting the executive pay at Comcast and NBCUniversal. Fain has pushed back against arguments that a big pay bump for the union would jack up costs of vehicles and put the Big Three automakers General Motors, Ford and Stellantis (formerly Chrysler) at a disadvantage against foreign competitors with lower-cost workforces in the race to transition to electric vehicles. In the last four years, the price of vehicles went up 30%. Our wages went up 6%, The CEOs got 40%. There were billions of dollars in shareholder dividends. So our wages arent the problem, Fain said in a recent interview with The Associated Press. CEO pay has ballooned for decades, while wages for ordinary workers have lagged. But did the Big Three chief executives really get 40% pay increases? Not exactly. I dont know where the 40% came from, said General Motors CEO Mary Barra at a new conference when asked if the UAWs numbers were accurate. Executive pay is notoriously complicated to calculate because so much of it comes in the form of stock grants or stock options. A detailed look at the compensation packages at all three companies shows how the UAWs claim both overstates and understates reality, depending on the view. The big three CEO pay packages Barra, the only one of the three who held the role since 2019, is the highest paid, with a compensation package of worth $28.98 million in 2022. The single biggest component was $14.62 million in stock grants, which vest over three years and whose ultimate value depends on stock performance and other metrics. Her pay has increased 34% since 2019, according data from public filings analyzed for AP by Equilar. Ford CEO James Farley received nearly $21 million in total compensation in 2022, a 25% increase over the $16.76 million then-CEO William Clay Ford received in 2019. Farleys package last year included $15.14 million in stock awards, which also vest over three years with an ultimate value dependent on performance. Where the the comparison gets complicated is at Stellantis, which was formed in 2021 with the merger of Italian-American conglomerate Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and French PSA Group. Because it is a European company, the way Stellantis discloses executive pay differs significantly from GM and Ford. In its annual renumeration report, Stellantis reported CEO Carlos Tavares 2022 pay was 23.46 million euros. Thats a nearly 77% increase over then Fiat Chrysler CEO Mike Manleys 2019 pay of 13.28 million euros. Those are the numbers used by the UAW when it calculated that three automakers have, collectively, increased CEO pay by 40.1% since 2019, according to the methodology the union provided to The AP. But theres a catch: Stellantis figures reflect realized pay, which include the value of previously granted equity that vested during the reporting year. U.S. companies, in contrast, use grant date value of stock packages awarded to executives during the reporting year. In its analysis, Equilar used the grant date method to make an equivalent comparison between all three CEOs. By that measure, Tavares 2022 compensation was in 21.95 million euros in 2022, including 10.9 million in stock awards with a three-year vesting period. Thats actually 24% decline from Manleys compensation package in 2019, which was 29.04 million euros, according to Equilar. The volatility of CEO pay So, is Tavares really making less than Manley was four years ago? Not really. Thats because in some years, talking about a CEOs realized pay can obscure exorbitant pay packages approved by company boards. Take Tavares 2021 compensation package, which included special incentive award of 25 million in cash as well as stock worth 19.56 million all contingent on long-term performance goals granted to Tavares in recognition of his essential role in leading the company through the merger. That one-time award, which came on top of millions of more in regular compensation, alone pushed Tavares 2021 compensation package far above what Manley got in 2019. Stellantis shareholders voted 52.1% to reject the pay proposal in their annual meeting, though the vote was only advisory and the board approved his package anyway. The CEOs of GM and Ford also saw their compensation packages peak in 2021, before declining slightly in 2022. How does all this compare to regular worker pay? However you slice the numbers, the gap between CEO pay and rank-and-file workers at all three companies is gigantic. At GM, the median worker pay was $80,034 in 2022. It would take that worker 362 years to make Barras annual compensation. At Ford, where the media pay $74, 691, it would take 281 years. At Stellantis, with a median pay of 64,328 euros, it would take 365 years, although the company noted its its annual report that the disparity includes expenses related to Tavares one-time grant. Excluding that, the pay ratio is 298-1. How extreme that disparity? It depends on the comparison. Its far above the typical pay gap at S&P 500 companies, which was 186-1 according to APs annual CEO pay survey, which uses data analyzed by Equilar. And its astronomical by historical standards. According to a study of the 350 largest publicly traded U.S. firms by the left-leaning Economic Policy Institute, the CEO-to-Worker pay ratio was just 15-1 in 1965. The automakers, for their part, emphasize that their foreign competitors pay their workers much less. Including benefits, workers at the Detroit 3 automakers receive around $60 an hour, according to Harry Katz, a labor professor at Cornell University. At foreign-based automakers with U.S. factories, the compensation is about $40 to $45. Then theres Tesla. CEO Elon Musks 2022 compensation was reported as zero in the companys proxy statement, rendering its official pay ratio meaningless. Of course, thats because Tesla hasnt awarded Musk new packages since a 2018 long-term compensation plan that could potentially be worth more than $50 billion and is facing a legal challenge from shareholders. But the proxy offers glimpse at the mind-boggling wealth disparity between its workers and one of the worlds richest men. The filing reported Musks total realized compensation in 2021 at more than $737 million. A typical Tesla worker earned $40,723 that year. According to the proxy, for that worker to make Musks realized compensation that year, it would take more than 18,000 years. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition I. C. R. Madrid Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram A man has been arrested by police in Madrid for touching a news reporter's bottom while she was broadcasting on live TV in Spain. Isa Balado, a journalist for En Boca de Todos, was sexually assaulted on Tuesday 12 September during a live crossover to the studio while she was standing in the middle of the street. The journalist was reporting the details of a robbery in a local grocery shop, when a man, wearing sunglasses, a jacket and shorts, approached her and stroked her bottom on camera. AGRESION SEXUAL EN DIRECTO a nuestra reportera @IsaBalado: "De verdad me tienes que tocar el culo?" Y tremenda reaccion de @Nacho_Abad: "Pasame a este tio tonto!" pic.twitter.com/JOcbTLSFwI En boca de todos (@EnBocaDe_Todos) September 12, 2023 During the live broadcast, a presenter on the studio set, Nacho Abad, could be heard saying; "Isa, did he just touch your bottom". To which Balado replied: "Yes". "I just can't understand it. Can you put that man in front of me, please? Put this stupid guy in front of me, please," Abad said to the cameraman, who widened the shot so the suspect was caught on camera. The journalist told the man: "As much as you might want to ask us what channel we're from, did you really have to touch my bottom? I'm doing a live broadcast and I'm working". The man said that he had not wanted to touch her bottom, while holding out his hand with a smile on his face. "Yes, you did touch it. I really wish you'd let me work. That's it, please let me work," Balado said. The aggressor then left, but not before stroking her hair. "This guy is stupid. Isa, I'm really sorry for what has just happened to you. We have recorded it. He has no right to do what he has done, it makes me very angry," Abad said. The TV programme's managers reported the assault to the National Police force and later the man was arrested. Detenido por agredir sexualmente a una reportera mientras estaba realizando un directo de television #Madrid pic.twitter.com/vKkBjNXJve Policia Nacional (@policia) September 12, 2023 The Provincial Prosecutor's Office of Madrid has asked the judge to slap the man with a 300-metre restraining order and a ban on communicating with the victim. El Norte Castilla y Leon Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram Specialist personnel from the Junta de Castilla y Leon have safely captured and released a wild brown bear whose head was trapped in a plastic drum in the town of Anllares del Sil, in the municipality of Paramo del Sil. According to sources from the regional Ministry of the Environment, a local resident spotted the animal with its head trapped in a discarded container which prevented it from seeing and feeding, thus endangering the life of the brown bear. After an initial call was made to Fundacion Oso Pardo, the foundation referred the matter to specialised staff at the Junta de Castilla y Leon. Environmental agents, the Junta's bear patrol team and the clinical veterinarians from the network of wildlife centres assigned to the plan for the capture and radio-tagging of brown bears in the region immediately arrived on the scene. The veterinary team fired a shot with an anaesthetic dart, and within 12 minutes the male brown bear, weighing 98.5 kg, with no signs of dehydration was fast asleep. The team immediately proceeded to remove the plastic drum from its head. A tracking collar was also placed on the animal to geolocate it, and the rescue operation ended with the taking of biometric measurements and biological samples before the brown bear was released back into the wild. Migrants wait at the port pier before boarding on the military ship 'Cassiopea' to be transferred to other places from the island of Lampedusa, southern Italy, 15 September 2023. A straight line just a few meters wide in the sea, in the middle of the harbor, traces a sort of imaginary border between Lampedusas two realities. On one side, there is a row of pleasure boats, their hulls a spotless, gleaming white. Lively music plays on some of them, and tourists in bathing suits with drinks in hand are constantly coming and going. On the other side, there is a pile of empty barges, some made of rusty metal and others of wood; all of them damaged and punished by the water. On this side, theres the wail of ambulance sirens and the hustle and bustle of health workers and volunteers from humanitarian organizations going from one side to the other with thermal emergency blankets. Migrants are continuously landing in Lampedusa, although the numbers have decreased in the past two days. On Friday afternoon, dozens of newly arrived migrants waited on the dock, under the scorching sun, to receive assistance and be transferred to the reception center. Their faces reflected something between despair and resignation. Meanwhile, an Italian Armed Forces ship was unloading another large group of migrants who had been rescued at sea. Since the arrivals peaked, the authorities have not been able to keep up. As Thursday night became Friday morning, just over 200 migrants had arrived. Authorities and dozens of volunteers are working hard to restore normalcy. But that still seems far off following the record-breaking number of migrants who arrived in the middle of last week. In just four days, nearly 12,000 migrants came by sea to Lampedusa. The small island of just 6,000 inhabitants which is closer to Africa than to Italy had never received this many migrants before. It is the highest number ever recorded. In four days, the same number of migrants arrived as in all of 2019 in all of Italy [11,471], says Matteo Villa, a researcher at the Institute for International Policy Studies. A group of migrants on an Italian Guard boat on Friday in Lampedusa. ALESSANDRO SERRANO (AFP) The Red Cross is managing the reception of migrants in Lampedusa. The organizations staff told this newspaper that on Friday morning there were 3,800 people at the first reception center, which is designed to register migrants; they are meant to spend as little time as possible in the center, which has a capacity of 400 people. Throughout the day, authorities transferred about 2,500 migrants to other reception centers in Sicily and on the mainland. The Italian Red Crosss 130 workers and volunteers are going above and beyond to guarantee the guests basic needs, says the president of the Italian organization, Rosario Valastro. He added that they distributed 5,000 meals for lunch and another 5,000 for dinner on Thursday. We are exhausted, but we are still working. For us, people come first, he says. Scuffles during food distribution In recent days, the center has been near collapse. There was not enough space or food for so many people. From time to time, as food was being distributed, small scuffles broke out, and the police charged at the migrants. Many had to ask for food and water directly from Lampedusa residents, who opened the doors of their homes to migrants and offered them sustenance. Mohamed, 15, from Gambia, is taking refuge under the shade of a tree with his compatriots Ibrahim, 17, and Buhakar, 19. Temperatures in Lampedusa these days have been hovering around 30Celsius (86Fahrenheit), but the high humidity makes it feel even hotter. The three of them are carrying water and food in a plastic bag that some of the islands residents gave them. The people here are good; they have tried to help us, Mohamed says shyly. He has been on the island for four days. He is a minor who is traveling alone, but authorities still have not processed his case to transfer him to a special reception center for unaccompanied minors. The three of them say that they crossed Mali and Algeria and spent about a month in Tunisia, where they had a nightmare experience before leaving Sfax in Tunisia for Italy. Mohamed would like to stay in Italy; Ibrahim wants to go to Germany; and Buhakar wishes to go to France. In the port, about 200 migrants are crowded under tents that protect them from the sun as they wait for the boat that will take them to Sicily. Those who remain outside the shelter of the tents protect themselves from the heat by putting wet towels on their heads. I havent eaten for four days, complains Mihaid, a 23-year-old Liberian, who arrived in Lampedusa last Sunday from Tunisia. Its too hot here; I feel desperate. Im happy to be in Europe, but I want to leave here now, he says. He adds that he plans to stay in Italy and study maybe in Naples. Red Cross volunteers hand out sandwiches and water before the migrants board the ship. There are moments of tension when they think that, again, there will not be enough food for everyone, but this time there are enough reserves to feed the whole group. In Lampedusa, the hustle and bustle is constant. The first reception center is fenced in and guarded by the Italian Army; police officers come and go with large groups of migrants. Some are taken to the buses that go to the port, where they must embark to go to other reception centers off the island, while officers escort other migrants to identify them at the center. From a nearby hill, one can see large groups of people wandering around inside. Some are lined up to receive food and instructions, while others sit on the ground to rest as best they can; many take shelter in what little shade there is. Clothes hang from the structures windows; theres a constant murmur and hardly any empty space. Several people rest on deck chairs placed outside the reception center on the Italian island of Lampedusa on Friday. Political tensions Off the island, migratory tension has shaken up politics and spilled beyond the countrys borders. Led by the far-right Giorgia Meloni, the Italian government recently allocated 45 million ($48 million) to Lampedusa to help the island manage migration. But in the face of such an exceptional spike in arrivals, there is a clear lack of adequate resources to deal with the situation. Meloni, who was elected a year ago and promised to put an end to mass migration, has asked Europe for help. In a video message, the prime minister said that she had invited the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, to travel with her to Lampedusa to see the situation on the island firsthand. She visited a migrant reception center on Sunday. The Italian prime minister also announced that on Monday, at a Council of Ministers, her government will approve new migratory measures, including the creation and expansion of new Identification and Expulsion Centers for illegal immigrants, as Meloni described them. She also issued a message to migrants: You should not trust human traffickers, who ask you for a lot of money and put you on boats which are not equipped to make those trips, because if you enter Italy illegally, you will be held and sent back. Migration is a common challenge for the European Union that requires a collective response, Meloni said in a statement after a meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. She has called on her European partners to make a greater commitment in fighting against the human trafficking networks and [in creating] an effective return policy. The U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has called on EU countries to demonstrate the spirit of shared responsibility and solidarity. We think that nows the time for other countries, other states, other regions to try to support the Italians and to support the people of Lampedusa, said Matthew Saltmarsh, UNHCR spokesman. European institutions are also supporting Italy. Anitta Hipper, from the EU commission, said Italy has our full political support and that the EU executive is working with Rome from a financial and operational point of view. Hipper called for solidarity and close cooperation between member states, after Germany refused to receive more asylum seekers from Italy. For its part, France has demonstrated its willingness to cooperate with Italy in managing the migration emergency that has overwhelmed Lampedusa. Despite past tensions with Meloni over immigration, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his unwavering support for Rome. I want to say very sincerely to all our Italian friends that I believe it is the responsibility of the European Union, the entire European Union, to stand by Italy, Macron told reporters on Friday. Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi said that he had a telephone conversation with his French counterpart, Gerarld Darmanin, to address the issue. [We] both agreed on the need to prioritize a strategy to rapidly strengthen cooperation with the countries of origin, which can have an effective impact on blocking departures at their origins, the Italian minister said. We agreed to work together within the European Union in the coming hours to strongly reinforce the prevention of immigrant departures and the fight against people traffickers, Darmanin said. But Matteo Salvini., Italys vice president and the leader of the far-right Lega, broke the conciliatory tone. Europe doesnt give a damn about what happens in Lampedusa and Ventimiglia. It has become clear in the last few hours that a distracted Europe has guiltily left the Italian government on its own to solve the problem by itself, he said. He went on to specifically call out the German government: There are German institutions that give millions of euros to German NGOs to bring migrants to Italy. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Syracuse, N.Y. -- A Central New York man fleeing from police crashed a stolen car and made a run for it before officers caught up to him. Cayuga County Sheriff Brian Schenck said his department had been looking for Trent Goodrich, 22, of Wolcott, on arrest warrants for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and 2nd-degree robbery since Aug. 31. During its investigation, it developed information that Wolcott was in Wayne County, he said. A coordinated effort was then made between his office, the Wayne County Sheriffs Office, the Auburn Police Department, the Finger Lakes Drug Task Force, the Cayuga County Probation Department, New York State Parole and the New York State Police to search for him there, he said. Schenck said Goodrich was located in Wayne County on Wednesday and immediately fled in a stolen vehicle. After a brief pursuit, Goodrich crashed the vehicle in a field and ran, but was caught by officers, he said. Goodrich was transported to the Cayuga County Sheriffs Office where he was processed on the warrants and held at the Cayuga County Jail pending court appearance. Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact Rick Moriarty anytime: Email | X | Facebook | 315-470-3148 Syracuse, N.Y. -- A man was shot in the arm Sunday on Syracuses East Side. Syracuse Police were called to the 200 block of Westmoreland Avenue at 5:34 p.m. for a reported shooting. Upon arrival, officers found a 25-year-old man with a gunshot wound to his left arm in the courtyard between 201 and 203 Westmoreland Ave. at Parkside Commons Apartments, police said. The victim was transported to University Hospital by ambulance. Police said his injuries were not considered life-threatening. Police asked that anyone with information about the shooting call the Syracuse Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at (315) 442-5222. Anonymous tips can be made through the Syracuse Police Department website at www.syr.gov/police or via its tip411 service. Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact Rick Moriarty anytime: Email | X | Facebook | 315-470-3148 NEW YORK (AP) The chief executive officer of a firm hired by New York City to house and care for hundreds of migrants abruptly resigned Friday after he admitted to lying about his educational record and as DocGo has come under scrutiny for its $432 million no-bid contract with the city. Anthony Capones resignation came after the Albany Times Union reported that Capone had lied about having a graduate degree in artificial intelligence from Clarkson University. The university told the paper that Capone had never attended the university in Northern New York. Capone later admitted to the paper he had never earned a graduate degree from any institution of learning. I take full responsibility and am making immediate corrections to all official bios, profiles and any other materials where this incorrect information appears, he had said in a statement. The company confirmed Capones resignation Friday in a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which said the companys president and chief operating officer, Lee Bienstock, had been appointed the new CEO. The filing cited personal reasons for his resignation, which was effective immediately. DocGo was already under scrutiny when its no-bid contract with New York City came to light, prompting questions about what services the company was providing as well as the quality of those services. Neither the company nor city officials were willing to voluntarily disclose details of the contract. Earlier this month, New York City Comptroller Brad Lander said there were numerous outstanding issues and concerns that prompted him to reject the citys $432 million no-bid emergency contract with DocGo. Among those concerns, Lander said, was the lack of budget detail to justify the value of the contract and a lack of evidence the company has the expertise to provide the services it has been contracted for. The city comptroller is an independently elected official. Landers decision to return the contract without approval to the citys Department of Housing Preservation and Development, which inked the contract with DocGo, cant scuttle the deal. Mayor Eric Adams has the authority to override the comptroller and has said, We are going to move forward with it. The New York Times reported in August that state Attorney General Letitia James had launched an investigation into the company, which has been accused by some migrants and their advocates of providing inaccurate information about their ability to work, obtain health care coverage and other actions that could risk their ability to gain asylum. The attorney general is also reporting whether security personnel hired by DocGo mistreated and threatened them, including ordering migrants not to speak with journalists. DocGo began as a medical services company, describing itself on its website as delivering high-quality medical care outside traditional hospital or clinic settings across our service lines: Mobile Health Care, Medical Transportation and Remote Patient Monitoring/Chronic Disease Management. Were bringing the future of healthcare to patients doorsteps. During the pandemic, it contracted with the city to provide COVID-19 testing and vaccinations. Since then, it has expanded its services inexplicably beyond medicine, critics say, and into the realm of logistical operations to transport, house, feed and care for hundreds, if not thousands, of asylum seekers many of them bused outside of New York City to other communities in the state. The company has been trying to land a lucrative contract, valued in the billions of dollars, with the federal government. Ricardo Mourinho, vice president of the European Investment Bank (EIB), at an event in Madrid, in April 2023. Climate change denialism hardly has any support left in Latin America. Not only do nine out of 10 residents of the region believe that climate change is a reality, they also claim to have already felt its impact in their day-to-day lives. Thus, 80% of those surveyed in the region demand stricter policies to eradicate it. These are some of the figures provided by the latest report from the European Investment Bank (EIB) in a report published this past week during the Finance in Common Summit (FiCS), a key event to draw a roadmap for European-financed development in Latin America. Theres a total consensus [in Latin America]... probably greater than what exists in Europe, affirms Ricardo Mourinho, Vice President of the EIB. Citizens are clamoring for climate and democratic action if 90% [are doing so], governments have to take action. In Latin America and the Caribbean the most biodiverse continent and one of the most affected by global warming the percentage of climate change deniers barely exceeds 5%, according to the survey. Every year, more than 20 million people are forced to leave their homes and relocate due to the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, which have doubled over the last two decades. Climate migrants are a reality here, in the Middle East, in Africa we must invest in adaptation to ensure that people can stay in their places of origin safely and earn a livelihood, the Portuguese banker emphasizes, in an interview with EL PAIS. A woman covers her mouth and nose during a forest fire in Rio Branco, Brazil, in July of 2022. ALEXANDRE CRUZ-NORONHA (Getty Images) Despite the fact that the world we live in has already changed and climate migration is the only option for hundreds of thousands of people, climate financing doesnt seem to be aligned with reality. Barely 10% of this financing is earmarked for adaptation measures, with more lucrative projects getting the rest. This percentage has to increase to 15% or 20%. And were doing it, by making loan terms more flexible, with more dialogues with governments. [Were also] including clauses in our contracts for when natural disasters occur, the banker explains. An adaptation measure would be, for example, the restoration of 10% of the deforested area in the Amazon, as Colombian President Gustavo Petro insisted on during the closing ceremony of FiCS: One of the best ways to contribute to the fight against the climate crisis is by recovering the millions of hectares deforested in the Amazon, [which has occurred largely due to] extensive cattle ranching. Can someone lend me money to get it back? Because its not economically profitable. Socially, yes, but not economically, Petro said, adding: the way to measure impact has to be different. To find solutions towards a social, green and digital Latin America, a meeting will be held between the finance ministers from EU, Latin American and Caribbean countries. It will take place on September 15, in Santiago De Compostela, Spain. During this informal summit, the ministers will outline where the 45 billion ($48 billion) promised by the EU until 2027 will go. It will be transferred through the EUs Global Gateway initiative, an investment and cooperation platform in Latin America and the Caribbean. The goals include reducing poverty and joining forces for a digital transformation, while encouraging cooperation for a fair and green transition. China is the second country (after the United States) with the highest level of investment in the region. However, the vice president of the EIB assures EL PAIS that this doesnt concern him. Its not about competing, he says. Negotiations with the EU are long-term. Europe has the ambition to increase its economic, political and commercial relationship with Latin America. And we want to do so with the principles of Europe: freedom, democracy and the rule of law. Thats whats most important. Mourinho explains that one of the priorities that will be discussed during the meeting of finance ministers will be the conservation of oceans, which are among the largest oxygen generators on the planet and among the most important temperature regulators. At the recent Finance in Common Summit in Cartagena, Colombia, an agreement between eight development banks including the EIB, the CAF-Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) was made public. If theres no blue economy, there can be no green economy. It would only be yellow, Mourinho jokes. We will achieve this with two plans: one for the management of waste that reaches the seas and oceans, and another for supporting the economies of the sea: fishing, preservation of mangroves, and marine biodiversity. The statement reads that the roadmap will bring together knowledge and experience from all ocean investments and identify unfilled funding gaps and realistic funding opportunities. According to the EIB survey, among the most tangible consequences of climate change are the economic ones. Seven out of 10 Latin Americans claim to have seen their income or sources of livelihood decline as a result of weather events or temperature changes. And half of the 10,500 respondents who hail from 13 countries in the region say they have suffered health problems because of climate change. Another policy that seems to be gaining ground in the negotiations is the opening of a carbon market. Asked about the disagreements between large gas-emitting companies with communities that wish to protect biodiversity, Mourinho is blunt: If theres no good environmental regulation in the countries, were not going to invest. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition InterManager launches new ship management General Principles of Conduct and Action InterManager launched a set of General Principles of Conduct and Action for the international ship management sector which it says will drive up quality across the industry. London, 14 September 2023: InterManager, the international trade association for third party and in-house ship managers, has today launched a set of General Principles of Conduct and Action for the international ship management sector which it says will drive up quality across the industry. Announcing the new General Principles of Conduct and Action, during London International Shipping Week 2023, InterManager President Mark ONeil, CEO of the Columbia Group, said: These new industry-wide Principles reflect the fact that InterManager members are committed to achieving high standards in providing their wide range of services to the global shipping industry. These General Principles will inevitably raise the standard of international ship management and the services of associated suppliers. As professionals we must always aspire to improve and share knowledge. InterManagers General Principles of Conduct and Action sets the collective principles that all InterManager members should follow and is regarded as vital to their success in reaching the highest standards of ship operations. The General Principles represent some 18 months of work by InterManager members sharing their experience and represent the fulfilment of an important mandate for the President, who is in his second term of office. Mr ONeil advised that that the General Principles are dynamic and evolving and predicted they will get stronger over time. Highlighting the fact that InterManager members represent the top echelon of ship management, regardless of their size, Mr ONeil urged ship owners and operators to support the General Principles by discriminating between InterManager members and non-members. Its a simple fact that there can be no reason why a manager would not want to be a member of InterManager unless it did not want to open itself up to improvement by incorporation of these General Principles and to self assessment or audit. I would expect discerning clients to opt for companies that aspire to these Principles and are open to audit. Mr ONeil advised that the new General Principles Conduct and Action are aspirational and there is no pass/fail scenario. We do not expect full compliance on day one, from either existing or new members, but there has to be a demonstrable commitment to working towards full compliance and a steady improvement, he said, adding, The whole purpose of the General Principles is not to pass or fail but to show how positive change can be implemented and for that change to be wanted. For new members, self assessment will be the initial step upon entry. Initially the General Principles will rely on a self-assessment but there will then follow periodic, confidential audits by a third party. The aim of the audit will be to assess and demonstrate how and where improvement can be achieved. In instances of concern, poor practice, or failure to remedy, InterManagers Executive Committee will determine whether the particular company should remain a member, although Mr ONeil stressed: We are really talking about exceptional cases which I hope will be very rare. InterManager is proud to be leading the industry by improving standards in this way and at a time when shipping is striving to meet sustainability goals. Championing the General Principles Captain Kuba Szymanski, InterManager Secretary General, commented: I firmly believe that this process should be inclusive not exclusive, encouraging and aspirational as opposed to penalising, and co-operational as opposed to confrontational. I congratulate my InterManager colleagues on working together to create the new General Principles of Conduct and Action and applaud their commitment to this industry-wide measure. The owner of a purported Goya painting claimed that she had inherited the work from her grandfather. She showed a certificate and an appraisal that valued the small-format work at 1.5 to 1.8 million ($1.6 million to $1.9 million). She tried to sell it through an auction. The woman was arrested, released and investigated for the crimes of forgery and fraud. The painting, a scene from the War of Independence, is one of five works of art that are considered to be forgeries and were recently seized in Spain by the Valencian Polices Patrimony Unit. The forged pieces include Goyas The Portrait of the Baron of Alcalali, an Ecce Homo by Juan de Juanes (the pseudonym of Vicente Juan Macip), a Renoir and a Miro. All of the pieces had documentation attesting to their alleged authenticity and value. The estimated market value of the first three is over 2 million ($2.15 million), while the value of the other two is yet to be determined. But in reality, the forgeries are only worth a few hundred euros. Four other owners are also under police investigation for fraud. This particular police unit rarely receives complaints and primarily acts by investigating commercial transactions, such as auctions. The owner of a forged work does not report it; s/he wants to sell it, to get rid of it. Its like the person who has a counterfeit bill, explained Antonio Lopez, of the Spanish National Police unit affiliated with Valencias police force, at a press conference presenting the seized works. In the cases of the Miro and Renoir forgeries, the art dealer freely presented them to the Historical Patrimony group before marketing them in order to check if they appeared as stolen in the databases, as well as to check their authenticity and avoid committing a criminal offence. That is not the usual procedure, given that museums like the Prado do not certify authenticity or appraise artwork for private individuals. The owners of the portrait attributed to Goya were not art connoisseurs and said that they had acquired it in 1999 for 228,384.70 (around $245,000) as an investment, thinking it was an original work. Valencias Police Commissioner, Marisol Conde; Valencia councilwoman Elisa Nunez; and the director of the Police Patrimony Unit, Antonio Lopez, with the seized fake works. Monica Torres The profile of the buyer and seller varies, as does the quality of the forgery. In this sense, the low price of the seized Renoir is striking, as Lopez himself noted. It is equally unusual that Juan de Juaness Ecce homo was done on canvas glued to a board, given that the originals on display at the Museum of Fine Arts in Valencia and in the Prado Museum were done directly on a board. Who pays a large amount of money to buy a work of art outside the safest channels for doing so, without all the guarantees that come with it? Its a swindle aided by a seal. Supported by false documentation, the seller can be very persuasive and can ultimately make you believe that its a bargain, if thats what you want to believe... There is a lot of greed too, Lopez points out. Theres also a lot of money to launder and one of the ways to accomplish that is through the purchase of artworks, the policeman adds. There are cases of buyers who have amassed a fortune but lack basic art knowledge and fall prey to their desire to have a piece by Pablo Picasso or Joaquin Sorolla (this year marks the centennial of the latters death) in their homes, Lopez says. Thus, they acquire a work and when things go wrong they decide to sell it. Then the owner discovers that it is a fake and instead of filing a complaint, they attempt to sell the work as authentic. Lopez posed as a buyer in an operation in which police seized five Picassos, valued at 160 million ($171 million) a few years ago. They were sold as Picassos, but they were Pikachus, the policeman says with a smile. In 2014, Lopez was working on his masters degree in art when the Valencian unit was set up, and he was assigned to it. He recalls how the forgery of an impeccable-looking Modigliani was discovered after detecting that titanium white had been used after the Italian artists death in 1920. From left to right, the works attributed to Miro, Juan de Juanes, Goya (two works) and Renoir. Monica Torres Once a work is confiscated, the police turn to the experts, heirs and foundations that monitor an artists legacy to verify a pieces authenticity and confirm their suspicions. But judges and experts decide whether a work is a forgery or not, not us, said Marisol Conde, Valencias Police Commissioner. Conde joined councilwoman Elisa Nunez at a press conference that paid tribute to the policework. The event took place at the Museo Valenciano de la Ilustracion y la Modernidad (Valencias Museum of Art and Modernity; MuVIM) on the occasion of the exhibition False: The Art of Deception or the Deception of Art?, which displays 112 works seized by the Valencian Police. Since 2014, this unit focused on patrimony has confiscated 6,143 art and cultural objects, of which 3,803 are archaeological pieces, 1,364 coins, 684 paintings and 157 sculptures, among other items. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition 84.monsoon Distinguished - BHPian Join Date: May 2010 Location: Chennai Posts: 2,108 Thanked: 9,125 Times My Dravit Grey BMW M340i LCI | Ownership Review | The pinnacle of power! What I like: A monster of an engine in the B58. True wolf-in-sheeps-clothing that can cruise peacefully but also lunge forward like a leopard at the tap of the throttle. Solid, build completely rattle free. Doors are heavy and shut with a reassuring Thud, both front and back. Amazing Dravit Grey color. Nice interior quality with the Alcantara leather seats and generous Carbon Fiber inserts and that sexy black headliner Outstanding acceleration, but with very confidence-inspiring Braking. Space at rear is surprisingly sufficient for two tall people. Usable boot, even with presence of a donut spare tire for emergencies (and you may well need that spare frequently due to the small sidewall tires, which tend to get damaged easily on potholes) Sophisticated exterior looks, with a lot of piano black pieces and those delicious 19-inch wheels. Screams sports car! The stunning iDrive 8 - massive single slab, curved screen that is rich in functionality, but fairly intuitive to grasp. Masks speed like a magician - it feels absolutely no different whether you are driving at 100 KPH or 150 KPH What I dont like: The ride gets quite rough on bad roads with a lot of potholes and undulations. The triple whammy of lack of adaptive suspension, 19 inch wheels with very low profile tires and wide off-set rear tires, means that the any road imperfections are amplified and transmitted those inside the car. Very thin, hard and uncomfortable door armrests on the front driver-side. The armrest is very narrow with a hard edge, causing discomfort for forearms during long drives. No sun blinds for the rear seats, or for the rear windscreen these were totally expected at the price point. The engine feels a bit heavy in slow-moving traffic not as nimble and responsive in this setting as the B48 in my older car, the 530i. I miss the gearshift lever which was always special in the BMWs. The drive by wire slider control feels like a toy. The seats are quite hard and narrow and not very well suited for long drives, unless your back and behind are made of steel. Not the best for long journeys. The Harmon Kardon system - I expected more out of a system that claims to have 400+ watts of power output. The system lacks the depth and punch expected. Some BMW History & Why a new Car? Some of you might have read my G30 530i review. ( However, on a date-to-day basis, the car was a bit too long and big for my needs. I do not use a chauffeur and entering and exiting my driveway into the street lined with parked cars was a bit of a pain each time. The pandemic period also meant I was not going out of town so often and also not going into the workplace. The car was increasingly idle during 2020 and 2021. On top of that, I acquired the new Thar in January 2021 ( All was well for a few months, and I was relieved to not have to maintain the BMW and pay for expensive repairs every time rats would enter the bonnet and start biting the wires. Made a couple of trips to the hills on my new Thar as well. Although interesting, these drives tended to be bouncy and choppy, and not really enjoyable after the first few hours. On the few occasions that my family used my car, they were always complaining about the impracticality of the Thar. I started missing my BMW a few months after I sold it. Things were starting to get back to normal and I wanted to go on more long-distance trips down to the hills in the Southern part of the state. Every time I would go for a long distance trip in the Thar, I would remember how fast and blissful the drives in my 530i were, compared to the relatively slower and bouncier drives in the Thar. Eventually, I stopped driving and started taking trains on my trips to the hills. Withdrawal symptoms from the BMW started appearing and I started wishing I had not sold the 530i. The two-year lease through my office on the Thar was coming to a close by the end of 2022, offering an opportunity to lease yet another new car with tax advantages. By the middle of last year, I started evaluating what my second car could be, so that side-by-side with the Thar, it would offer me a nice garage a flexible combination of cars that can take on different use cases for my trips - provide a combination of luxury and utility. I love driving sedans, so it was clear the second card had to be a sedan again, given I had such a pure-bred SUV as my first car. Alternatives considered: The first car I thought of buying was the Mark 4 Skoda Octavia. It seemed to be the perfect package at a reasonable price point, that would get me a fast ride, and a reasonable set of features. There were also a few sparingly used Octavias that came on to the market in Chennai towards the end of last year. What I liked about that car was that it had a modern interior, a tank like build, very comfortable and ergonomic layout, decent interior space, and a powerful engine. A nearly new 2021 Octavia came to the market towards the end of the year, reasonably priced around Rs. 27 lakhs. What I had read and heard about Skoda DSGs reliability was one of the reasons, I hesitated to pick up this car. The news of Octavia being withdrawn from the Indian market started floating around, and that gave me some more pause. By the time I could get into a new lease scheme. I was worried that the car may be out of stock and withdrawn from the market. Later on, we found that just as expected, Skoda did we draw this car on April 1, 2023 from the Indian market. The other alternative I looked at was to get a moderately used BMW from some reputed used car dealers in Chennai. I checked out a previous generation 330i (F10 2017 with 50K kilometers on it, being quoted at 28 lakhs). The interiors were a big let down. Decided to go for a current generation car and checked out a G30 530D, a 630D, as well as a new generation X3. All of these available in the 45-55 lakh price bracket, however, compared to my 530i, none of these were in a like new condition. I was very particular on a nearly new car owned by a car lover and enthusiast and very well maintained. Some of the cars were obviously display cars which were later sold to the first owner. Most had the front drivers seat in very poor condition, as the cars (especially 5 and 6 series) had all obviously been used as a chauffeur-driven vehicle, with the chauffeur using the seat to drive, sit & wait or even sleep, for most parts of the day waiting for the owner to finish whatever business they had to attend to. I also considered a slightly used 630 D The price quoted was quite high, but the car felt very luxurious and spacious. It felt very huge while driving, almost like a full-size SUV such as the Mercedes GLS. I am sure the higher seating position and higher ground clearance, plus the air suspension at the rear, will help make for a better ride when tackling bad roads, but for a solo driver who doesnt use a chauffeur, it seemed like an overkill in terms of size. I decided that it was better to go with a new car and avail lease tax benefits rather than go with a used car. The lease scheme my employer has through ORIX, that would save me a bunch of tax as the lease payments would come off the topline pre-tax versus paying for the car after tax. This opened up the budget a bit, as it would save nearly 20% post tax on a 3 year lease as compared to bank financing with no upfront locking of capital. I had a keen eye on all the launches taking place in the second half of 2022 - the ones which interested me were the Scorpio N and the Innova Hycross. Both of them offered the prospect of comfortable, fast highway drives, and the Innova brought the prospect of becoming an early adopter of strong hybrid technology. I was sure this technology is going to dominate our Auto scene in the coming years. It offered a great combination of instant power delivery, and very high fuel efficiency. However, the negative reports about the interiors of the Hycross dissuaded me somewhat. The Scorpio that I booked showed no signs of being allocated, at least till the middle or later part of 2023. I also felt it would be almost very similar to the Thar in terms of driving feel and experience, as both were based on the same platform, and the 2.2 MHawk Diesel engine, as well as the six speed Aisin AT were common to both. I also considered very seriously the 530D LCI - I had enjoyed my 530i immensely 530D is indeed legendary. Little did I know in late 2022 that the six cylinder diesel will be discontinued less than six months later, thanks to the tightening CAFE norms across the industry. Had a look at the LCI - the interiors where a notch better than my 530i pre-LCI, given the higher quality of leather and the larger iDrive infotainment system, and a few other features such as the Heads-up Display and even smarter looks upfront in the LCI. The drive was amazing with the car being able to pick up speeds with a sense of urgency that I had missed in the 530i. However, the fact that I would still be driving essentially the same car with a different engine put me off, as I might get bored sooner down the line. Even though I was used to the G30, the issues around parking and maneuvering the car remained, given its length. I had been keenly following the launch of the current generation G20 3-series in 2019, and the subsequent experiences of many BHP-ians who bought 330is and the subsequent launch of the pre-LCI M340i in 2022. The 3-series, is of course, the ultimate drivers car that BMW makes for nearly 50 years and 7 generations. The G30 is better to drive, but also more comfortable than the F30, being 25% stiffer and yet, lighter than the previous generation. Having grown by 76 mm in length of which 41 mm is added to the wheelbase, it seemed like the perfect length for driving in the city as well as the highways, with rear passengers having decent amount of legroom on those occasions when they share a ride. When the M340i, I was launched in 2022, I developed a strong interest in the car. The price-to-performance seemed to offer a very good value proposition. The car looked mean and had really nice, sporty interiors. I think what turned me off was the reported dismal fuel efficiency and the fact that I would have to do frequent fuel ups on long-distance drives. However, the car quite never went out of my mind, and I continued to track the BMW India website and drool over the specs and looks of the car. Some of you might have read my G30 530i review. ( https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/test-...-530i-g30.html (My BMW 530i (G30)!) ). I got the car in 2017, right as the generation was launched and kept it for close to 5 years. The car was an absolute gem. It was trouble-free, drove really well and was fast and quiet. It had a really plush interior and adaptive suspension. However, being someone who lives 3 km from my place of work, I was using the car mainly for my long-distance run to the Hills every other month. The car behaved amazingly well on the freeways and made every trip pleasurable and memorable.However, on a date-to-day basis, the car was a bit too long and big for my needs. I do not use a chauffeur and entering and exiting my driveway into the street lined with parked cars was a bit of a pain each time. The pandemic period also meant I was not going out of town so often and also not going into the workplace. The car was increasingly idle during 2020 and 2021. On top of that, I acquired the new Thar in January 2021 ( https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/test-...ic-copper.html (My 2020 Mahindra Thar Review (Mystic Copper)!) ), which meant I had to split the few kilometers that I drove between my two cars. The Thar soon became the daily driver due to the effortless way you could drive and park that car in city traffic conditions, as I started going back to office and also for shopping, errands etc. I had only done 19,000 km in the BMW in 4.5+ years that I had the car with me. I made a half-hearted decision to sell the car before the extended warranty expired at the end of 5 years, as I was worried about sudden value depreciation once the car went out of warranty. A fellow BHPian from Bangalore bought the car in April 2022, for close to 60% of my purchased price thanks to the steep price increases on luxury cars, the depreciation seemed to be a whole lot less than it used to be, say 6-7 years ago. On some days, when I think about the finish, level of comfort and luxury in that car, I still wish I had not sold it. The G30 530i is indeed a gem, highly reliable, gave me a very comfortable ride on good roads and even on bad ones, with that awesome adaptive suspension, the enthusiastic engine always rewarding to drive.All was well for a few months, and I was relieved to not have to maintain the BMW and pay for expensive repairs every time rats would enter the bonnet and start biting the wires. Made a couple of trips to the hills on my new Thar as well. Although interesting, these drives tended to be bouncy and choppy, and not really enjoyable after the first few hours. On the few occasions that my family used my car, they were always complaining about the impracticality of the Thar.I started missing my BMW a few months after I sold it. Things were starting to get back to normal and I wanted to go on more long-distance trips down to the hills in the Southern part of the state. Every time I would go for a long distance trip in the Thar, I would remember how fast and blissful the drives in my 530i were, compared to the relatively slower and bouncier drives in the Thar. Eventually, I stopped driving and started taking trains on my trips to the hills. Withdrawal symptoms from the BMW started appearing and I started wishing I had not sold the 530i.The two-year lease through my office on the Thar was coming to a close by the end of 2022, offering an opportunity to lease yet another new car with tax advantages. By the middle of last year, I started evaluating what my second car could be, so that side-by-side with the Thar, it would offer me a nice garage a flexible combination of cars that can take on different use cases for my trips - provide a combination of luxury and utility. I love driving sedans, so it was clear the second card had to be a sedan again, given I had such a pure-bred SUV as my first car.The first car I thought of buying was the Mark 4 Skoda Octavia. It seemed to be the perfect package at a reasonable price point, that would get me a fast ride, and a reasonable set of features. There were also a few sparingly used Octavias that came on to the market in Chennai towards the end of last year. What I liked about that car was that it had a modern interior, a tank like build, very comfortable and ergonomic layout, decent interior space, and a powerful engine. A nearly new 2021 Octavia came to the market towards the end of the year, reasonably priced around Rs. 27 lakhs. What I had read and heard about Skoda DSGs reliability was one of the reasons, I hesitated to pick up this car. The news of Octavia being withdrawn from the Indian market started floating around, and that gave me some more pause. By the time I could get into a new lease scheme. I was worried that the car may be out of stock and withdrawn from the market. Later on, we found that just as expected, Skoda did we draw this car on April 1, 2023 from the Indian market.The other alternative I looked at was to get a moderately used BMW from some reputed used car dealers in Chennai. I checked out a previous generation 330i (F10 2017 with 50K kilometers on it, being quoted at 28 lakhs). The interiors were a big let down. Decided to go for a current generation car and checked out a G30 530D, a 630D, as well as a new generation X3. All of these available in the 45-55 lakh price bracket, however, compared to my 530i, none of these were in a like new condition. I was very particular on a nearly new car owned by a car lover and enthusiast and very well maintained. Some of the cars were obviously display cars which were later sold to the first owner. Most had the front drivers seat in very poor condition, as the cars (especially 5 and 6 series) had all obviously been used as a chauffeur-driven vehicle, with the chauffeur using the seat to drive, sit & wait or even sleep, for most parts of the day waiting for the owner to finish whatever business they had to attend to. I also considered a slightly used 630 D The price quoted was quite high, but the car felt very luxurious and spacious. It felt very huge while driving, almost like a full-size SUV such as the Mercedes GLS. I am sure the higher seating position and higher ground clearance, plus the air suspension at the rear, will help make for a better ride when tackling bad roads, but for a solo driver who doesnt use a chauffeur, it seemed like an overkill in terms of size.I decided that it was better to go with a new car and avail lease tax benefits rather than go with a used car. The lease scheme my employer has through ORIX, that would save me a bunch of tax as the lease payments would come off the topline pre-tax versus paying for the car after tax. This opened up the budget a bit, as it would save nearly 20% post tax on a 3 year lease as compared to bank financing with no upfront locking of capital. I had a keen eye on all the launches taking place in the second half of 2022 - the ones which interested me were the Scorpio N and the Innova Hycross. Both of them offered the prospect of comfortable, fast highway drives, and the Innova brought the prospect of becoming an early adopter of strong hybrid technology. I was sure this technology is going to dominate our Auto scene in the coming years. It offered a great combination of instant power delivery, and very high fuel efficiency. However, the negative reports about the interiors of the Hycross dissuaded me somewhat. The Scorpio that I booked showed no signs of being allocated, at least till the middle or later part of 2023. I also felt it would be almost very similar to the Thar in terms of driving feel and experience, as both were based on the same platform, and the 2.2 MHawk Diesel engine, as well as the six speed Aisin AT were common to both.I also considered very seriously the 530D LCI - I had enjoyed my 530i immensely 530D is indeed legendary. Little did I know in late 2022 that the six cylinder diesel will be discontinued less than six months later, thanks to the tightening CAFE norms across the industry. Had a look at the LCI - the interiors where a notch better than my 530i pre-LCI, given the higher quality of leather and the larger iDrive infotainment system, and a few other features such as the Heads-up Display and even smarter looks upfront in the LCI. The drive was amazing with the car being able to pick up speeds with a sense of urgency that I had missed in the 530i. However, the fact that I would still be driving essentially the same car with a different engine put me off, as I might get bored sooner down the line. Even though I was used to the G30, the issues around parking and maneuvering the car remained, given its length.I had been keenly following the launch of the current generation G20 3-series in 2019, and the subsequent experiences of many BHP-ians who bought 330is and the subsequent launch of the pre-LCI M340i in 2022. The 3-series, is of course, the ultimate drivers car that BMW makes for nearly 50 years and 7 generations. The G30 is better to drive, but also more comfortable than the F30, being 25% stiffer and yet, lighter than the previous generation. Having grown by 76 mm in length of which 41 mm is added to the wheelbase, it seemed like the perfect length for driving in the city as well as the highways, with rear passengers having decent amount of legroom on those occasions when they share a ride.When the M340i, I was launched in 2022, I developed a strong interest in the car. The price-to-performance seemed to offer a very good value proposition. The car looked mean and had really nice, sporty interiors. I think what turned me off was the reported dismal fuel efficiency and the fact that I would have to do frequent fuel ups on long-distance drives. However, the car quite never went out of my mind, and I continued to track the BMW India website and drool over the specs and looks of the car. Last edited by 84.monsoon : 13th September 2023 at 12:38 . At a glance Expert's Rating Pros Excellent audio performancein stereo! Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivitysimultaneously! Very wide sound stage Incredibly long battery life Cons Still no support for hi-res Bluetooth codecs Still best described as luggable $50 more expensive than the already pricey original Our Verdict Sonos didnt need to go back to the drawing board to design a better portable speaker, but Im glad they did. The Move 2 sounds better than the original, produces a wider sound stage than the original, and offers twice as much battery life as the original. And those are just the top-line improvements. Best Prices Today: Sonos Move 2 When I heard Sonos was working on a second generation of its first portable speaker, the Move, I wondered how they could make it better than the first, which I raved about in my 2019 review. I clearly suffer from a lack of imagination. The Sonos Move 2 is superior to that excellent speaker in nearly every way. Its also $50 more expensive than the original, which remains on the market at $399. Yes, Sonos expects to fetch $449 for the Move 2. Outfitted with dual angled tweeters, the Sonos Move 2 is a stereo speaker where the original delivers mono performances. What could be better than stereo? A less-directional sound stage that doesnt ignore listeners sitting behind the speaker, as might happen if a group of partygoers are gathered around a picnic table. The first Move was so highly directional you needed to be right in front of it to get the most enjoyment. And the only way to listen in stereo was to buy two Moves. That feature has been carried over to this new model if you want it, but youll get a great two-channel experience with just one of the new models. The Sonos Move 2 sounded great everywhere: right next to a wall, on an open counter, and in the backyard. Trueplay is wonderful auto-EQ software. The Move 2 once again supports both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity (Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 respectively), but those connections are concurrent this time around. While streaming music over my Wi-Fi network, I walked down the street until the speaker lost its connection to my network and the music stopped. I lifted the speaker, pressed the Bluetooth button in back, and the music resumed, now streaming from my phone. I then walked back to my house and the speaker automatically restored its connection to my Wi-Fi network without interrupting the song. Whats even more impressive is that the music playing on the speaker was still in sync with a Sonos One speaker inside my house. The Sonos Move 2 supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity simultaneously, so friends can connect to the speaker without needing the Sonos app or your Wi-Fi credentials. Michael Brown/Foundry This review is part of TechHives in-depth coverage of the best smart speakers and the best Bluetooth speakers. Concurrent Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity offers a second advantage: Friends can stream music to the Move 2 without needing to install the Sonos app on their phones or getting on your Wi-Fi network. But with the app on your phone, you can then group the Move 2 with any other Sonos speakers on your network and stream that same music to all of them. Like other Sonos speakers, the Move also supports Apples AirPlay 2 multi-room audio technology in addition to Sonos own powerful ecosystem. Design & build Dimensions: 9.5 x 6.3 x 5 inches (HxWxD) Weight: 6.61 pounds IP56 weatherization Touch-sensitive controls Color choices: Black, white, or olive green (a new color) On the downside, Sonos hasnt done much of anything to reduce the Move 2s hefty weight; in fact, at 6.61 pounds, its slightly heavier than the first-generation speaker, which tipped the scales at 6.6 pounds. As before, a scoop-like handle molded into the back of the speaker makes it easy to pick up and lug around, but this clearly isnt an entertainer destined to go in your backpack. That said, you neednt worry too much about exposing the Move 2 to the elements, as it carries the same IP56 weatherization as the first. That means no particulate matter should ever cause the speaker to fail, and that it has the highest protection from water short of immersion. Should it ever fall in the mud, you can spray it with a jet nozzle without worrying about damage, but dont drop it in the pool. Well tell you everything you need to know about IP codes at the preceding link. Sonos says the Move is constructed from impact-resistant materials and that it can withstand exposure to the suns ultraviolet rays as well. I left it operating it in direct sunlight on an unseasonably warm day in Portland for several hours, and a non-contact temperature sensor reported the surface temperature of its enclosure 120 degrees Fahrenheit (both the top and the front grill). Weighing in at 6.61 pounds, the Sonos Move 2s bulk is best described as loveably luggable. Michael Brown/Foundry Audio performance Three Class-D amplifiers (one for each driver) Dual tweeters and one mid-bass (single-speaker stereo) Sealed enclosure Bluetooth 5.0 (SBC and AAC codec support) The Move 2 has a single mid-woofer in addition to the dual angled tweeters Ive already mentioned. Each of these drivers is powered by a separate Class D amplifier. As usual, Sonos doesnt disclose driver sizes or materials or its amplifier power specifications. Portable speaker designers often make use of bass ports and/or passive radiators to enhance bass response; Sonos doesnt, as the Move 2 has only active drivers in a sealed enclosure. As such, its no bass monster, but its not bass shy, either. Listening to Billie Eilishs Bad Guy, from her debut album When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?, the thumping opening bass line felt rich and full, although I didnt feel the pounding in my chest as I would with a much larger speakeror one with passive radiators. More importantly, the higher frequencies of the drum machine, finger snaps, and vocals were rendered with explicit clarity. The Move 2 sounds tight and cohesive, and its enclosure doesnt transfer energy to the surface its resting on to cause unwanted resonance. Playing Steely Dands Home at Last, from the bands 1977 masterwork Aja, the Move 2 delivered the three bass notes that joins the piano at the end of the second bar with a satisfying thump. When the horns enter the mix, the pealing trumpets are delivered with sparkling clarity. On the next track, I Got the News, I could hear each strike of the drummers stick on his hi-hat. The vocals, with Michael McDonalds unmistakable tenor in the chorus, were equally well defined. Thanks to its real-time Trueplay EQ adjustments, the Sonos Move 2 sounds every bit as good outdoor as it does in the house. Michael Brown/Foundry I listened to the speakers indoors in several sizes of roomsincluding with different ceiling heightsand out of doors, taking advantage of Sonos Automatic Trueplay technology that uses the speakers onboard microphones to monitor its own performance and adjust its tuning in response to its surroundings. The Move 2 sounded great everywhere: right next to a wall, on an open counter, and in the backyard. Trueplay is wonderful and it works in both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modes, although you can disable it if you find it annoying. I certainly didnt. The Sonos Move 2 is an immensely satisfying speaker to listen to, whether youre streaming over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. I cant help but wonder, however, if it would sound even better over Bluetooth if Sonos supported a high-resolution Bluetooth codec like Sonys LDAC or Qualcomms aptX Adaptive. The speaker does support Apples AAC codec. Audiophiles will find nits to pick, but if youre looking for a reference-quality speaker, you shouldnt expect it to be suitable for both outdoor and indoor performances. Onboard controls Play/pause Track forward/back Volume Activate voice assistant As before, the Sonos Move 2 has capacitive touch controls on the top of the speaker, with dedicated buttons for play/pause, track forward, and previous track. Its much easier to control the speakers volume, compared to the previous model, thanks to a horizontal groove (slide your finger left to lower the volume, up to raise it). These controls are operational whether youre listening via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. The same controls are available in the Sonos app if youre using Wi-Fi (provided your phone and the speaker are on the same network). Sonos significantly improved the Sonos Move 2s volume control with this touch-sensive groove slider. Michael Brown/Foundry You can also control the speaker with voice commands, using the onboard mic and either Alexa or Sonos Voice Control, the latter featuring the mellifluous pipes of Giancarlo Esposito. Unlike the first-gen speaker, Google Assistant is not supported here. The Move 2 is adept at hearing either wake wordAlexa or Hey Sonoseven when youve cranked up your tunes. As a last resort, however, you can tap the voice bubble button on the top of the speaker. For the privacy-conscious, Sonos Voice Control offers the advantage of processing your requests on the speaker itselfnothing is uploaded to the cloud. If you want additional privacy assurance, the speakers mics can be electrically defeated by flipping a switch on the back of the speaker. The on/off and Bluetooth buttons are also there. The major downside to using Sonos Voice Control is the limited support for third-party music-streaming services. You can use it with subscriptions to Sonos Radio, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Deezer, or Pandora, but its not compatible with Qobuz, Tidal, Spotify, YouTube Music Premium, and many other services. Its not all bad news, though: You can use voice control to pause, resume, and adjust the volume no matter which service youre listening to, you just cant request a particular artist, album, or song by asking for ityou need to use the app for that. Music service apps are slightly more embracing of Amazons Alexa: You can use the same apps, plus a few more including Tidal (but not Qobuz). Apart from voice control, Sonos supports just every service you can think of. Battery life Youll place the Move 2 on this ring-shaped charging cradle when its battery runs low. Michael Brown/Foundry Sonos has managed to more than double the Moves battery life, going from 11 hours of playback time on the first-gen speaker to a full 24 hours on this one (a claim I didnt attempt to verify). The speaker comes with a wireless cradle with physical contacts that touch a pair of pads on the back of the speaker (i.e., its not a Qi-type charger). The wall wart for the charging base retains the right-angle form factor of the original, so its cord wont block an adjacent wall outlet, but the cradles power cord is removable this time. You wont need to remember to bring the charging base with you, because you can plug any USB-PD charger into the speakers USB-C port. You probably wont want to take the charging base with you anyway, because replacing a lost one will set you back $79. No battery lasts forever, and you might be tempted to just upgrade to a new model should the one in a cheaper speaker reach the end of its lifespan. Given the Move 2s high price tag, Im happy to report that Sonos sells a reasonably priced replacement battery kit for $79 (ditto for the original Move). The USB-C port on the back of the Move 2 serves several functions when you add optional accessories. Michael Brown/Foundry The Move 2s USB-C port can also charge another device from the speakers battery, a common feature on portable speakers these days. Less typical, it serves two other functions, albeit with added-cost accessories: A $19 line-in adapter lets you use the USB-C as a line-level aux input, which is great if you want to plug in a turntable with its own preamp; the battery-powered Audio-Technica Sound Burger, for example. A $39 combo adapter lets you do that and hardwire the speaker your home network with an ethernet cable. Should you buy a Sonos Move 2? Youll find a host of portable, weatherized Bluetooth speakers that cost significantly less than the Sonos Move 2, but none that are as smart or as flexible, that deliver such long battery life, that can operate over both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, or most importantly, that sound remotely as fabulous. If you already own a first-generation Move and are weary of that speakers 11-hour battery life, moving up to this model might be worth it; personally, Id rather spend that money on my favorite artists live shows. If you have the budget and want the best portable speaker on the market, nothing comes close to the Sonos Move 2. FurMark is a very intensive OpenGL benchmark that uses fur rendering algorithms to measure the performance of graphics cards. Fur rendering is especially adapted to overheat the GPU and that's why FurMark is also a stability and stress test tool (also called GPU burner) for the graphics card. The startup interface allows you to tweak the benchmark features such as: Benchmark mode or stability / burn-in test mode (for overclockers) GPU temperature monitoring and recording in a file Fullscreen or windowed for each type of run mode Window size selection (standard or custom) MSAA samples selection What's New Fixed a stupid bug that made FurMark to stop and quit prematurely. FurMark was unusable FurMark 1.37.0.0 Added support of AMD Radeon RX 7800 XT and RX 7700 XT. Updated GPU monitoring info in main GUI with widechar support. Updated: GPU-Z 2.55. Updated: GPU Shark 0.31.0.0. Updated: ZoomGPU 1.39.0 (32-bit GPU monitoring library) FurMark Beta 2.0.10 Fixed Radeon RX 6850M XT name (XT was missing). Added support of AMD Radeon PRO W7900, PRO W7800, PRO W7600 and PRO W7500. Added support of AMD Radeon RX 7900 GRE. Added support of NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Ti 16GB Added support of Intel Arc A570M, Arc A530M, Arc Pro A60M and A30M. Windows updated with GPU Shark2 2.0.12 Updated with GeeXLab 0.53.0 libs FurMark 1.36.0.0 Improved monitoring for Navi3x GPUs (board power added). Fixed Radeon RX 6850M XT name (XT was missing). Added support of AMD Radeon PRO W7900, PRO W7800, PRO W7600 and PRO W7500. Added support of AMD Radeon RX 7900 GRE. Added support of NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Ti 16GB. Updated with NVAPI R535. Updated: GPU Shark 0.30.0.0. Updated: ZoomGPU 1.38.0 (32-bit GPU monitoring library) FurMark 1.35.0.0 changelog: Added support of NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Ti. Added support of AMD Radeon RX 7600. Removed multi-GPUs detection routine (SLI or CrossFire). Updated: GPU-Z 2.54. Updated: GPU Shark 0.29.4 Updated: ZoomGPU 1.37.4 (GPU monitoring library) FurMark 1.34.0.0 changelog: Added support of GeForce RTX 4070. Added support of AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT, Radeon RX 7700S and RX 7600S. Improved detection of some Radeon (RX 5700, RX 5600, RX 470, RX 570). Updated: GPU-Z 2.53. Updated: GPU Shark 0.29.3 Updated: ZoomGPU 1.37.3 (GPU monitoring library) FurMark 1.33.0.0 changelog: Added support of Radeon RX 7900 XTX and RX 7900 XT. Added support of GeForce RTX 4070 Ti. Added support of GeForce RTX 4090/4080/4070/4060/4050 Laptop GPUs Added a new command line option to control the use of dedicated or integrated GPU: /hpgfx={0|1}. Same option is also available in FurMark 2. Updated: GPU-Z 2.52. Updated: GPU Shark 0.29.0 Updated: ZoomGPU 1.37.0 (GPU monitoring library) Previouse release notes A hot potato: TikTok is finding itself in deep waters once again with more reports of privacy concerns. This time, the Irish Data Protection Commission has handed down a massive fine to the company due to the mishandling of underage accounts. TikTok is no stranger to controversy surrounding user privacy and security. For years, it's been well documented that TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, is not the most reliable when it comes to keeping user data private. This behavior has led to various governments attempting to restrict, or in some cases, completely ban, the application in their respective regions. Earlier this year, Montana became the first US state to pass a vote to ban TikTok. For a while, this was ByteDance and TikTok's biggest concern, as the decline in active users would result in lower profits and potentially open up space to competitors in a given demographic. However, a recent punishment handed down by the Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC) may prove to be as damaging as any regional ban. The DPC announced on Friday that it had agreed to hand out a 345 million ($368 million) fine to TikTok due to the mishandling of underage accounts. According to the investigation, TikTok violated the European Union's GDPR (General Data Protection Regulations) by defaulting child user accounts to public, which would allow anyone to view the profile and comment on any posts from the user. Users aged between 13 and 17 were supposedly "steered through the sign-up process in a way that resulted in their accounts being set to public" rather than ensuring they were private by default, which the GDPR requires. The investigation also found that TikTok's "family pairing" feature, which allows parents and guardians to manage their child's account, was not properly checking if a paired adult was actually a parent or guardian of the child. Both of TikTok's Duet and Stitch features were also enabled by default for underage profiles. Each of these allows multiple users to collaborate and combine their videos, which can obviously cause some privacy concerns. This is not the first time TikTok has been fined by an EU commission; the UK's data regulators fined TikTok for 12.7 million ($15.7 million) earlier this year. In this case, it was due to TikTok mishandling the data of users under the age of 13. The UK determined the app was not preventing those accounts from joining the app, despite TikTok's terms of service prohibiting anyone under 13 years old from creating a profile. A representative for TikTok responded to the fine, stating, "We respectfully disagree with the decision, particularly the level of the fine imposed. The DPC's criticisms are focused on features and settings that were in place three years ago." According to the statement, TikTok made changes and set all accounts between the ages of 13 and 15 to private in 2021, after the DPC had begun their investigation, which supposedly occurred during 2020. Unfortunately, these privacy concerns appear to be a recurring problem for TikTok. Users can only hope that the fines and threats of massive bans on the application will result in ByteDance forcing serious changes to how TikTok is managed. What just happened? A newly approved bill will make life easier for Californian consumers wanting their data removed from online databases. Proponents of the bill are saying that deletion rights are now a "vital necessity," while lawyers and advertisers are depicting a decaying, byzantine Californian digital world. On September 14, the final day of the 2023 legislative session, the California Senate finally passed Senate Bill 362. Also known as the "Delete Act," the new law is designed to provide consumers in the most populous US state a new right to privacy against the commercial interests of data brokers. The bill will now need to be signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom, who has until October 14 to comply. According to Ashkan Soltani, executive director of the California Privacy Protection Agency (CPPA), Newsom is expected to sign the bill in due time. The Delete Act establishes a new "accessible deletion mechanism," which will make deleting consumer information collected by data brokers much easier and faster. Under the new law, the CPPA will be tasked with developing a new system by 2026. The system will give California residents the ability to make a single data deletion request against all the 500 data brokers officially operating in the state. CPPA will also need to enforce the law, ensuring that the brokers will actually delete a customer's personal information every 45 days after receiving a "verified" deletion request. Democratic senator Josh Becker, who first introduced the Delete Act in California Senate, previously said that the bill would close a loophole within the California Consumer Privacy Act. Before the Delete Act, consumers had to contact every single data broker if they wished for their data to be erased. The Delete Act is based on a very simple premise, Becker said: "Every Californian should be able to control who has access to their personal information and what they can do with it." Data brokers spend "their days and nights" building dossiers with millions of people's data about reproductive healthcare, geolocation, and more, Becker stated, even purchasing data so they can later "sell it to the highest bidder." Tom Kemp, who advised lawmakers in drafting the bill and is an investor in multiple data deletion companies, said that in "post-abortion rights America" the selling of "very sensitive data" such as reproductive healthcare or precise geolocation has made things "intolerable for many people." Opponents of the Delete Act include representatives from Kelley Drye & Warren Partner. The law firm highlighted how the bill would make things much more complicated for companies, who need to invest money to comply with these new laws. Advertisers are fuming, with executives from the Association of National Advertisers (ANA) talking about a scheme conceived to "enrich pay-to-play deletion" services. The Delete Act will encourage the mass deletion of data that is "the lifeblood of California's digital economy," ANA's executive VP Chris Oswald stated, and the bill also includes "glaring and dramatic failures." Without a "robust data marketplace," the advertisers said, Californians will fall victim to more fraud and identity theft because "their identities can't be verified." What just happened? Apple has reportedly warned multiple Russian journalists that they have been the targets of state-sponsored cyberattacks, most likely by Russia. The U.S. tech giant is believed to have discovered the attacks earlier this year when it detected the notorious Pegasus spyware surreptitiously installed in the iPhone of Russian journalist Galina Timchenko and immediately alerted her about its findings. According to The New York Times, Timchenko may be the first known instance of the Russian state machinery targeting a journalist with Pegasus, but she is not the only one to have fallen prey to the Kremlin's clandestine surveillance operations. Many other independent Russian journalists have since received such alerts from Apple, warning them that they might have been targeted by 'state-sponsored attackers.' An investigation by watchdog Access Now in collaboration with Citizen Lab at the University of Toronto's Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy found that Timchenko's phone was infected last January after the Putin administration declared her to be an 'undesirable (element).' Other independent Russian journalists have also reported receiving warnings from Apple about possible Pegasus infections in their phones, including Yevgeny Erlich of independent Russian media outlet, Current Time, and Maria Epifanova and Evgeniy Pavlov of Novaya Gazeta Europe. Developed and distributed by the Israeli tech firm NSO Group, Pegasus has been known to be used by governments across the world to spy on dissidents, human rights activists, and journalists. Some of the countries that have used the software against their citizens include the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Mexico, among others. U.S. State Department officials have also reportedly been the targets of Pegasus in recent years. In 2021, many U.S. government employees in Uganda are said to have been targeted with the spyware, while Amnesty International also claimed that the software was used by rogue regimes to target activists and journalists around the world. Described as a 'zero-click' spyware, Pegasus can be remotely installed on smartphones of targeted individuals to access their private and personal content, including photos, videos, contacts, messages, and more. The tool was once also used by an FBI contractor, but the agency canceled its contract with that company after facing intense pressure from civil liberties groups in the U.S. over privacy concerns. The U.S. has since blacklisted the NSO Group for allowing rogue governments to 'maliciously target' the phones of civilians. In brief: Companies demanding that employees start coming back into the office more regularly or on a full-time basis is never a happy moment for workers, but TikTok is making the situation even worse by monitoring its staff's office attendance using a new tool. Those found to be enjoying the comforts of home more often than they're allowed to could face disciplinary action. As reported by the New York Times, TikTok, owned by Chinese company ByteDance, told its employees in the United States that they are joining the many other tech workers being forced back into the office. From October, the requirement will be to be in the building at least three days per week, and some teams will need to be there every day. We've seen plenty of workers protest against return-to-office mandates this year. For TikTok, employee anger will undoubtedly be exacerbated by the company's use of a new tool, an app called MyRTO. Built into the company's internal software, myRTO can track in-office attendance by monitoring badge swipes. Anyone found to have a "deviation" an absence on a day they were meant to be in the office will be asked to explain it. There will also be a dashboard where the attendance data is visible to employees, supervisors, and the company's human resource division. Moreover, employees in TikTok's New York office have reportedly been told that a lunch stipend will be linked to the app, requiring a check-in from the office to access the funds. The transition away from working from home has been one of the most controversial employment issues in years. IBM and Zoom were the latest to call employees back to the office, following the likes of Amazon. Corporate workers were so angry about Amazon's decision that it led to petitions and protests. They never helped, though; CEO Andy Jassy recently warned those who don't want to return that "It's probably not going to work out for you." Zach Dunn, an expert on hybrid work and a founder of the hybrid management company Robin, told the NYT that ByteDance might be wondering what all the fuss is about. He said workers in the owner's home Asia-Pacific region have largely been back in the office, usually full-time, for well over a year. Armed men burst into the town, making it clear that they were the law. They assaulted the rural police station and surrounded the commissioners house, leaving no room for doubt as to who was in charge. They left behind a message: From now on, we control the town and the region. They said that they were members of the Sinaloa Cartel specifically, hitmen working for Ismael El Mayo Zambada. Despite these threats, the community of Nueva Palestina revolted. On September 6, the residents sent an open letter to Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, begging for military intervention, for the state to defend them from the criminal groups. Clearly, drug-trafficking has become strong in the Lacandona jungle, the symbolic heart of Chiapas. There are many cliches that are applied to the southern Mexican state, but they all fall short of describing the situation that has unfolded over the last three decades. Just to give a few examples: Chiapas is a time bomb, a pressure cooker, a glass that threatens to overflow, a spiral of violence, a powder keg its on the verge of civil war, says the Zapatista Army of National Liberation (EZLN), the local militant group. The reality is that the poorest state in Mexico is all that and much more. It has been living through an armed conflict for the last 30 years, with an amalgamation of paramilitaries, soldiers, guerrillas and self-defense groups. In recent times, the arrival of organized crime has made everything worse. Chiapas is surrounded by a fire that instead of being put out is becoming more and more fierce. An explosion seems inevitable. And its getting closer. In Mexico City, people march in solidarity with the Zapatista Movement in Chiapas, on June 8, 2023. Inaki Malvido The Sinaloa Cartel and the Jalisco Nueva Generacion Cartel have found a new vein to exploit in the region that borders Guatemala. Its a porous territory, fertile for illicit businesses, with three major arteries for drug trafficking: the Lacandona jungle, Frontera Comalapa (right on the border with Guatemala) and the Pacific coast. The possibilities of doing business are immense, with megaprojects such as the Mayan Train, a growing tourism sector and widespread land speculation. The destruction of the social fabric caused by the influx of weapons that is devouring the region has been accelerated. As always, civil society is paying the price, especially women and Indigenous communities, according to reports from specialists and testimonies from the locals. Massacres, femicides, kidnappings, sexual violence, disappearances and forced displacements are common the repertoire of horror is extensive. The escalation of a covert war Diana Iztu Gutierrez has been living in Chiapas for 12 years. She has been studying these dynamics at the Center for Research and Higher Studies in Social Anthropology: Were seeing a worsening level of organized crime in the last three years: from the arrival of armed militants in armored vehicles [who commit] kidnappings, car thefts, extortion. At the same time, femicides are increasing, there are [many cases of] depression and suicides, killings and daily disappearances of young people. In the communities, theres an increase in [the consumption of] alcohol, drugs and prostitution. Experts point out that the arrival of the Mayan Train project, mining and tourism have coincided with the rise of the mafias. All of this is going to lead to greater consumption [of substances] organized crime comes in, Iztu Gutierrez affirms. Theres obviously control over the territories where theres water, oil and minerals but we also have to understand how the political class becomes part of organized crime. Here, [in Chiapas], we see no difference between politicians and drug traffickers, she adds. Mario Ortega Gutierrez coordinator of advocacy at the Fray Bartolome de las Casas Human Rights Center (Frayba) explains how its very difficult to present evidence that demonstrates that the economic opportunities offered by megaprojects such as the Mayan Train project are what attract organized crime, but they always coincide. We also dont want to think that this is the only [cause]. We understand that, at the national level, theres still a dispute between the cartels we dont know what ruptures have occurred so that Chiapas which, historically, hasnt been in the same situation as the rest of the country is now [having these issues]. Members of various Indigenous groups the Tzotzil, Chol and Tojolabal Mayans march against the growing armed conflict in San Cristobal, on June 5, 2023. Carlos Lopez (EFE) Chiapas has a long history of peasant mobilizations and protests. A strong movement that for Ortega Gutierrez helps explain the resistance to the incursion of organized crime in the state. Possibly, it has a lot to do with the fact as to why the cartels didnt know how to enter [the state], due to the strong reluctance [of the] society but now theyve been able to do so by exerting social control. The main cartels that operate in the region Sinaloa and Jalisco Nueva Generacion, as well as dozens of regional groups use three main routes to traffic drugs, Ortega Gutierrez explains. The central one is from Frontera Comalapa to San Cristobal de las Casas. This has been the route that, so far, has been most-disputed between the two large cartels but the conflict tends to spread [away from the border with Guatemala]. The north which begins in the Lacandona jungle is another one of the places where the situation is worsening: Historically, since the 1970s, it has been documented that its an area where there are various clandestine drug-trafficking routes, where most of the drugs belonging to organized crime arrive in small planes. The route follows an entire highway that crosses the northern area of Chiapas until reaching Palenque, Tabasco, Veracruz The third route is through the Pacific coast. Members of the Mexican Army and National Guard on patrol in the municipality of Comala. Carlos Lopez (EFE) Remilitarization and paramilitarism Theres no easy answer to a conflict with a thousand facets. For example: the military intervention that the Lacandona community requests in its public letter is a measure that many other areas of the state reject. Oftentimes, critics say, the presence of soldiers is part of the problem not the solution. What weve seen is that communities often have a dilemma when it comes to requesting security. The very strong psychosocial impact of the militarism of the 1990s with many violations of human rights remains in the collective imagination. Its very respectable for communities to demand the presence of public security as a desperate measure against violence we dont doubt that it can have an immediate effect but it doesnt solve the problem in the long-term, Ortega Gutierrez notes. On January 1, 1994 the same day that the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) came into force the EZLN, formed by thousands of farmers from Chiapas, took up arms and put the federal government of then-president Carlos Salinas de Gortari in check. They sought to put an end to the extreme inequality experienced by indigenous people in Mexico. Over the years, the EZLN gained influence, becoming a solid opposition outside the halls of Congress, as well as a kind of beacon for the global left. While this group has spent years observing a strategy of silence, EZLN members continue to be spied on, monitored and surrounded by military intelligence and attacked by paramilitary groups. The Zapatista uprising was followed by the first process of militarization in Chiapas. Thats why many experts now prefer to talk about remilitarization a reinforcement of what already existed. Since I arrived in Chiapas especially due to the context of the Zapatista uprising in 1994 I found a militarized state. It has been a constant for the last 30 years, says Iztu Gutierrez. The Mexican government unleashed a counterinsurgency strategy to isolate and reduce the EZLN communities, which have since lived in autonomous regions, beyond the reach of the Mexican authorities. In the heat of the counterinsurgency, numerous paramilitary groups emerged. The emblematic case one that remains in the memory of the region like an open wound was the Acteal massacre: on March 22, 1997, a death squad murdered 45 people in cold blood in a church, including 18 children. Two years ago, Lopez Obradors administration recognized that the hand of the state was behind the massacre. He stated that the hitmen belonged to paramilitary groups which operated with the complacency of the authorities. Members of the National Guard are deployed to the border from San Cristobal, on September 10, 2023. Carlos Lopez (EFE) Documenting [the Mexican] Army headquarters [in Chiapas] always leads you to paramilitary groups, trained and armed by [the security forces], says Iztu Gutierrez. In the 2000s, the state bet on corporatization of paramilitary organizations, which later played this dirty game of [waging a] war of attrition, Ortega Gutierrez agrees. Currently, the EZLN strongholds continue to suffer from a constant paramilitary siege. The situation wants to force the Zapatistas to use weapons, the researcher warns. There was never a proper disarmament, not even after the EZLN and the government signed a kind of symbolic (but not practical) peace, with the San Andres agreements of 1996. Chiapas hasnt had a transitional process towards peace, nor a truth commission for all the crimes that were committed. The spiral of violence is obviously not new the element of organized crime is adding to it and making it much more complex, the researcher from Frayba sighs. He also mentions another factor: that the old paramilitary groups and the new cartels are beginning to link up, so as to maintain control. For Frayba, remilitarizing isnt the solution to the problem: Despite the presence of the military and the National Guard, criminal groups are mobilizing right under their noses. [Remilitarization of the region] is not the answer. We believe that the strongest [option] is that communities have the possibility through peaceful alternatives to shield themselves, with the understanding that this war for control isnt only armed its also cultural. We must rebuild and strengthen the social fabric. What just happened? What could be a major step toward the flying taxi era has been taken after Joby Aviation announced it will invest up to $500 million to build a new facility mass-producing the vehicles in Dayton, Ohio. Electric vertical takeoff and landing, or eVTOL aircraft, have been advancing at a rapid pace over the last few years. It's expected to be an industry worth $57 billion by 2035, which likely played a part in Joby Aviation's decision to build its first serial production facility, located on a 140-acre site at Dayton International Airport. The company previously built prototypes at its pilot production line in California. "For a hundred years, the Dayton area has been a leader in aviation innovation," said Republican Lt. Gov. Jon Husted. "But capturing a large-scale manufacturer of aircraft has always eluded the local economy there. With this announcement, that aspiration has been realized." Joby's production electric aircraft will have a pilot and is designed to hold four passengers, reach speeds of up to 200 miles per hour, and have a maximum range of 100 miles. The company says the noise produced by its eVTOL craft is barely audible against the background of the city, and it hopes to use them in aerial ridesharing networks from 2025. The rides are expected to be priced similarly to those of an Uber. Joby founder and CEO JoeBen Bevirt said, "We will be operating the service in partnership with Delta, flying to and from cities and airports." Delta said that the agreement will offer customers a "differentiated, premium experience." Bevirt told Reuters that the company is "driving vigorously" to win Federal Aviation Administration certification for the vehicles. Joby will be hiring immediately for the existing buildings at the Dayton site. Construction of the new production facility will begin in 2024, with operations to start in 2025. The company said that eventually, the site could accommodate manufacturing facilities that take up more space than the Pentagon, support 2,000 jobs, and the production of 500 aircraft per year. It is putting $500 million of its own cash into the project. The state of Ohio and several political organizations have offered up to $325 million in incentives and benefits to develop the site. While Ohio didn't offer the largest financial package of incentives, Bevirt told the AP that the state was chosen for its aviation links the first practical airplane originated in Ohio thanks to brothers Orville and Wilbur Wright. There's also an experienced workforce in place. "Ohio is the No. 1 state when it comes to supplying parts for Boeing and Airbus," Bevirt said. "Ohio is No. 3 in the nation on manufacturing jobs and that depth of manufacturing prowess, that workforce, is critical to us as we look to build this manufacturing facility." As noted by Insider, investment and orders in the eVTOL industry are ramping up at a rapid pace. United Airlines placed a $1 billion order for Archer's Midnight eVTOL in 2021, while Delta Air Lines invested $60 million into Joby Aviation in 2022. What just happened? Microsoft Chief Product Officer Panos Panay is calling it quits after nearly 20 years with the company. Panay hasn't commented on what his next chapter will look like or when it might get started, but we know it won't be with Redmond. According to his LinkedIn profile, Panay joined Microsoft in April 2004 as a group program manager for their PC hardware division. In 2013, he was promoted to corporate vice president of Surface and PC hardware before becoming chief product officer in April 2018. He's long been a public face of the company and is often featured as a presenter during new product announcements. The Verge obtained an email from Rajesh Jha, Microsoft EVP of experiences and devices, that was sent to employees regarding Panay's departure. Jha had nothing but positive things to say about Panay, noting how they created the Surface brand under his leadership. After 19 incredible years at Microsoft, I've decided to turn the page and write the next chapter. I'm forever grateful for my time at Microsoft and the amazing people I had the honor to make products with. Panos Panay (@panos_panay) September 18, 2023 Panay also addressed the matter on X (formerly Twitter), noting that he has decided to turn the page and write the next chapter. Panay added that he is forever grateful for his time at Microsoft and the people he had the honor to make products with. Jha said the changes will be immediate, but that Panay will help with the transition. Replacing him will be Yusuf Mehdi, who most recently served as Microsoft' consumer chief marketing officer. The shuffle will impact several other leadership roles as well, which Jha outlined in his email to employees. Microsoft is set to host a media event in New York City later this week on September 21 to discuss AI innovations and new Surface devices. In an X post late last month, Panay said he was pumped for the event but it is now unclear if he will be on hand to help Microsoft showcase its latest products. Panay will also miss the public unveiling of Windows 12, which could happen as soon as 2024. Nothing official has come down the pipe about Windows 12 yet but most expect it to feature a heavy dose of AI-powered features. A Canadian university-affiliated program is committed to enhancing global healthcare for marginalized populations by exploring artificial intelligence (AI) applications to improve readiness for infectious disease epidemics in the Global South. (Photo : JOEL SAGET/AFP via Getty Images) A globe showing Europe, Africa and Asia is pictured on an illustration representation of COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus in Paris on April 24, 2020. Enhancing Global Healthcare Through AI According to Interesting Engineering, the initiative aims to translate locally relevant data into actionable insights to create region-specific policies that cater to the local public's needs. Jude Kong, the program's executive director, expressed the goal of preventing a recurrence of events like the COVID-19 pandemic. The project aims to train AI algorithms to address specific challenges, such as predicting outbreaks in particular regions and developing healthcare solutions based on data from various regional outlets. Spearheading this Initiative York University in Toronto is spearheading this endeavor, which spans across 16 projects in Southern regions. AI's capabilities in the world of infectious disease are increasingly evident, spanning epidemiological research, diagnostics, treatment development, and epidemic prediction. By analyzing vast datasets encompassing social media posts, news articles, clinical records, and more, AI systems excel in identifying and forecasting outbreaks. Moreover, they aid policymakers and public health authorities in resource allocation and intervention strategies through disease spread simulations. York University's latest endeavor, the Global South Artificial Intelligence for Pandemic and Epidemic Preparedness and Response Network (AI4PEP) merges insights from researchers, decision-makers, and local community experts worldwide to tailor AI-driven solutions for individual nations. Kong told CTV News that his team aimed for a diverse distribution of projects, considering both linguistic and geographical aspects. They categorized the projects into four distinct sections: "early disease detection, alert systems, response strategies, and management and containment of emerging epidemics." These classifications will ensure that each project aligns with the specific needs of its respective global region. Read Also: FDA Approves New Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 Vaccines Targeting Omicron Variant XBB.1.5 Benefiting From International Guidance, Local Support The selected projects benefit from both international guidance and local support, ensuring their effectiveness in addressing unique regional needs. It is essential to recognize that assumptions made in academic environments may not always align with the realities of diverse communities worldwide. What proves successful in one location, such as London, may not necessarily yield the same results in places like Ghana or remote regions of the Philippines. This initiative has sparked remarkable dedication among participants, even for those whose proposals were not among the finalists. Their continued involvement in the program demonstrates a shared passion for enhancing healthcare systems. These projects span a wide range of initiatives, from bolstering polio surveillance in Ethiopia to developing user-friendly platforms to prevent disease outbreaks in Brazil. This collaborative endeavor underscores the transformative potential that emerges when healthcare professionals, data scientists, and policymakers come together to address global health challenges. Related Article: US COVID Hospitalizations Rise, but Symptoms Seem Less Severe: Here's Why 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Samsung has a special offer for owners of the Apple Watch Series 8, asking them to trade in their smartwatch for a Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 with just a small additional amount. Those trading their device would just have to add $49. Apple Watch Series 8 Can be Traded-In for the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 with a Small Addition According to the story by Sam Mobile, the Samsung's latest smartwatch model is the Galaxy Watch 6 and so far, the company is trying to attract Apple Watch Series 8 owners to make the change. The company is trying to do this by offering larger trade-in values for owners of the Apple Watch Series 8. When trading in the Apple Watch Series 8, owners can switch to the Galaxy Watch 6 with just an additional $49. So far, Apple is trying to incentivize owners to let go of their Apple smartwatch and join the Galaxy ecosystem. Customers Can Get the Newer Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Base Model Via the Official Samsung Website This comes as Samsung has a lot to offer customers who want to make the switch from Apple, which aside from smartwatches, also includes foldable phones. Apple has not been pursuing foldable phones despite other companies already coming out with their versions. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 base model, which is said to be a 40mm Bluetooth/Wi-Fi variant, originally costs $299 directly from the official Samsung website. It was noted that Samsung would offer users a higher trade-in value for their older smartwatches. Other Trade-Ins Involve the Apple Watch Series 7 which Samsung Gives a Value of $200 So far, the highest trade-in value that Samsung is offering is for the Apple Watch Series 8, which has a value of $250. This was even higher than their own model, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, which they list at just $200. It was noted that Samsung also offers a $200 valuation for the Apple Watch Series 7, which is considered already two years old. However, for those who trade in their Apple Watch Series 8 for a $250 valuation, owners would only need to add $49 to get the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6. Read Also: Apple Unveils iOS 17 Free Update: Everything You Need to Know Samsung Tries to Make Its New Products More Attractive with Large Trade-Ins for Previous Units The deal was designed to try to attract Apple owners to make the switch to Samsung. As seen on The Verge, the Apple Watch Series 8 was priced at $399 for a brand-new version, and some of its disadvantages are that users still need to charge daily and that there wasn't much difference compared to previous Apple Watch models. It was noted that so far, Samsung is also running other great deals for buyers, including offering the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra for just $299. As highlighted by Metro Americas, this is due to an up to $900 enhanced trade-in credit for devices like the Galaxy S22 Ultra, which means buyers would only have to shell out a smaller amount. Related Article: End of an Era: Apple Discontinues iPhone Mini Version as 6.1-Inch Flagship Phones Thrive 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The world of tech was taken over by a storm of Apple's massive Wonderlust event, with the company dropping significant developments to its devices, including the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro's USB-C. However, last week also saw the defeat of the Bidirectional EV Charging requirement in California in the State Assembly, alongside the NASA-inspired Airless tires that are now available. Technology and innovation continue with the many developments seen last week, but there are still massive efforts that do not fly in the industry. Apple's iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro Unveils (Photo : Apple) Apple revealed the iPhone 15 series to the world early last week, and it saw massive praise and a warm welcome for what the devices have to bring, with its most important feature available now being the USB-C. There are plenty of reasons why users should upgrade to the new smartphone now, and it includes the famed 3nm processor known as the A17 Pro for the iPhone 15 Pro and the A16 Bionic chip for the iPhone 15. However, this is not the only feature of USB-C, as the iPhone 15 Pro delivers USB-3 technology that allows the smartphone to directly transfer data from its internal storage to the likes of SSDs, Macs, Flash Drives, and more. It also offers bidirectional charging to power other devices. The iPhone 15 Pro features a titanium body for a more robust device, but keeping a lightweight form factor. The series also introduces the first iteration of the Action Button, replacing the Mute switch. Read Also: 'AI Anxious': LinkedIn Survey Reveals Employees' Fear of Lagging Behind in AI Technology No More Bidirectional EV Charging in Cali (Photo : Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) Senator Nancy Skinner sponsored the SB-233, also known as the California Bill that centers on a bidirectional charging requirement for EVs, but sadly, it did not fly in the state assembly. While it saw massive success among the members of the Senate as it was drafted, it faced a roadblock with the state assembly which did not approve it. Senator Skinner and her office have confirmed that this particular Senate Bill is no longer continuing its efforts. However, the idea is not yet scrapped, as Skinner and her office would look for more ways to move forward with this California EV requirement in the future. NASA-Inspired Airless Tires (Photo : NASA Glenn Research Center) Airless tires have been in development in the previous years, and it already made waves in the tech industry with NASA pioneering this design, with many following. Now, some companies looked to develop this, with an Ohio-based company called the Smart Tire Company has recently made it available for the world to use. This is called the METL, and it is the memory airless bicycle tire, that was originally conceived by NASA for extraterrestrial applications, especially with the rocky surface of the Red Planet, Mars. The company initially launched the program via Kickstarter, and since then, the team has developed it with Nitinol, a component that gives it better shock absorption, elasticity, and durability for improved ride comfort here on Earth. Related Article: NASA's Historic 'Hubble Hugger' Rocket Engine Revs Up for Moon Mission in 2024 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A new biography of Tesla CEO Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson exposes the turbulent development of Autopilot driving assistance technology, showing Musk's dogged pursuit of his vision clashing with engineers' safety concerns. During test runs of Tesla cars using Autopilot in 2015, Musk had near-misses with danger. The biography describes a terrifying occurrence on Interstate 405 when Autopilot swerved dangerously near oncoming cars due to fading lane markings. Elon Musk allegedly poured his rage on Tesla engineers after such occurrences, requesting that they "Do something to program this right," as quoted in the book, according to a 9Gag report. Within Tesla's research team, there was a lot of disagreement over the use of Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology, which uses lasers to scan the environment and is popular among manufacturers of autonomous vehicles because of its accuracy. Elon Musk, though, preferred optical sensors since people drive with their eyes. Cost factors also played a role in Musk's resolve since he thought forgoing LiDAR technology would result in lower production costs. Engineers Tried Explaining to Elon Musk However, the engineers at Tesla had other opinions. The new Elon Musk biography notes the difficulties in balancing the tech tycoon's ambition with technical viability. Tesla's senior vice president, Andrew Baglino "There was just such a gap between Elon's goal and the possible," said Baglino, as quoted in the report. He noted that Elon Musk just was not aware of the difficulties and Tesla engineers made an effort to speak with Musk about the specifications for the sensors, stressing the importance of security. "We're trying to have those conversations with Elon to establish what the sensors would need to do. And they were really difficult conversations because he kept coming back to the fact that people have just two eyes and they can drive the car," Baglino stated in the biography, as quoted by a Futurism report published by Yahoo! News. However, Elon Musk persisted in his conviction that camera vision alone should be adequate, despite Tesla Engineers' best efforts. Sam Teller, Musk's chief of staff, was able to allay the CEO's worries. Teller suggested repainting the curve's lane lines. However, this short tweak did not resolve Autopilot's issue on challenging roads. The book also described Musk's efforts to encourage Tesla to record driver behavior using its built-in driver monitoring camera. This plan attempted to provide proof in support of Tesla's defense if autopilot-related incidents occurred. Read Also: EU Weighs Imposing Tariffs Against Chinese EV Manufacturers Elon Musk sought to utilize video evidence to demonstrate that driver error was often the main contributing factor in collisions, according to Electrek. Tesla's privacy team has had reservations about linking such films to particular automobiles, however. Tesla Facing Autopilot Mishaps Lawsuits These revelations occur at a time when Tesla is facing autopilot-related legal issues. According to Reuters, Tesla is facing several lawsuits in the US. The first trial was scheduled to begin in the middle of September in a state court in California and concerns a civil complaint that claims Tesla's Autopilot technology was to blame for a terrifying occurrence. The Model 3 of Micah Lee reportedly went off a roadway east of Los Angeles at 65 mph, hitting a palm tree and igniting in seconds. Micah Lee tragically lost his life in the 2019 collision, which was previously unknown, and two of his passengers, including an eight-year-old boy, received serious injuries. The passengers and Lee's estate claim in the complaint that Tesla knew about Autopilot and other safety system flaws when it sold the car. The second trial is slated to take place in a Florida state court in the early months of October in a different legal dispute. A 2019 incident north of Miami had Stephen Banner's Model 3 driving beneath an 18-wheeler big-rig truck trailer that joined the road. Banner tragically perished as a consequence of the collision, which took off Tesla's roof. In the complaint filed by Banner's husband, it is claimed that Autopilot did not use brakes or steering movements to avoid the crash. In reaction to both accidents, Tesla has vehemently denied responsibility and blamed driver error for the occurrences. Related Article: How Tesla's Technological Breakthrough Could Change the EV Industry 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Unity, a developer of cross-platform game engines, decided to change certain aspects of its plans less than a week after generating controversy with its proposal to pay developers based on installs and income. Many developers, who were dissatisfied with the first idea, are still dubious about Unity's offer of compromise. On September 12th, the contentious Runtime Fee was initially announced, explaining that projects earning $200,000 in a calendar year or amassing 200,000-lifetime installations for players subscribing to the less expensive engine subscription plans will be subject to a fee per install for any game, per Gizmodo. However, Unity Pro and Enterprise plan holders will pay the Runtime Fee after reaching $1 million in earnings or 1 million lifetime installations. The policy will be implemented starting January 1, 2024. On Sunday, Unity posted an apology on Twitter in response to the growing criticism. "We apologize for the confusion and angst," stated the tweet from Unity, which added that it was "listening" to the comments and it would soon publish an update clarifying the revised suggested runtime price. Developer Community Blasts Unity's New Policy The developer community did not like Unity's first pricing structure. For every additional game installation beyond the predetermined threshold, users of Unity Personal or Unity Plus subscriptions would have been charged $0.20, while bigger businesses would have assessed costs ranging from $0.02 to $0.125 per install. It should be noted that these costs would still be charged even if a user reinstalled the same game or installed it on a new device. We have heard you. We apologize for the confusion and angst the runtime fee policy we announced on Tuesday caused. We are listening, talking to our team members, community, customers, and partners, and will be making changes to the policy. We will share an update in a couple of Unity (@unity) September 17, 2023 Read Also: DC Justice League Animated Movies: A Guide to Watching Them Chronologically The intended proposal sparked a considerable backlash, with many developers advising their colleagues to stop using Unity and switch to other engines. One such instance is Mega Crit, the creators of "Slay the Spire," who claimed to have been using Unity for more than two years but threatened to transfer to another engine in the absence of a full reversal of the pricing increases and the implementation of protective terms of service. Backlash Impact As news spread that Unity officials, including CEO John Riccitiello, had sold significant sums of business shares in the weeks before the announcement of the Runtime Fee, the situation worsened. Riccitiello previously attracted prominence for criticizing game creators who did not optimize income in their works, and it was reported that he sold almost 50,000 shares in 2023 alone. After the charge announcement, Unity's stock price fell sharply, although it later partly rebounded. Additionally, the business received several threats against their lives, which led to the closure of its operations in Austin, Texas, and San Francisco, California. Former Unity CEO and current board member David Helgason admitted that the corporation made a grave mistake and called the price changes a critical error, according to Venture Beat. However, Unity's apology did not specifically pledge to repeal the Runtime Fee Policy, per Sirus Gaming; it merely alluded to updating the policy. Related Article: Twitch Streamer 'Danny Aarons' Spent $40K on EA Sports FC 24 with an In-Game Balance of 5.5 Million FIFA Points 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Approaching the summit what to expect from the UKs upcoming AI Safety Summit - Shoosmiths Guest blog by Shoosmiths Please find the original article here. The conversation around Artificial intelligence (AI) regulation is set to go into a supercharged phase globally. At least, thats the conclusion one cant help drawing from the hype around the UKs AI Safety Summit, which takes place in early November, and from comments this week by Senate Leader Chuck Schumer around upping the pace of AI regulation in the US. So what can we expect from the next few months, and in particular from the upcoming UK AI Safety Summit? The UK regulatory approach getting ones own house in order So far, the UK has espoused a light touch approach towards AI regulation, with a decentralised model that delegates oversight to sectoral regulators, and which the UK government believes will promote innovation. In the coming months, UK regulators are expected to start issuing practical guidance, setting out how organisations should implement the governments AI principles set out in the governments white paper on AI earlier this year. However, an interim report from the House of Commons Science, Innovation and Technology Committee (SITC) on 31 August took aim at this light touch approach, raising concerns that the UK will be left behind in AI regulation if it does not act soon. The report noted that if new legislation is not proposed in the Kings Speech on 7 November (which currently seems unlikely), the earliest any legislation could become law is 2025. In the intervening period, the EUs AI Act might already have become the de facto regulatory standard, with UK laws being potentially forced to follow the EUs lead. The SITC therefore advocates for a tightly focused AI Bill in the new session of Parliament. This puts the UK government in a difficult position. It seems unlikely it will deviate so early from its stated approach of avoiding explicit regulation and relying instead on existing regulators, such as the ICO, FCA and CMA, to create context-specific rules. Indeed, it seems especially unlikely that the UK will change tack so shortly before it hosts the AI Summit. So what next? The government is set to respond to the SITCs interim report, and it is still set to publish feedback following the AI white paper consultation period (which closed on 21 June). Feedback from that process is anticipated (if industry commentary is anything to go by) to include specific demands for more detail on how any proposed regime will include clear and consistent cross-sector principles, with tech providers presumably hoping for assurance that they are not going to need to take a significantly different approach with each regulator. For now, though, the governments immediate focus will be on the upcoming summit, where Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will be keen to promote both the UKs AI credentials and its approach towards AI regulation. It seems unlikely there will be very much public development in respect of AI regulation in the UK until after the summit. The perfect host? In a statement on 4 September, the UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) detailed the governments ambitions for the summit. It refers to frontier AI, up to now an academic term that encompasses highly capable foundation models that could exhibit dangerous capabilities. We can infer that in its use of the term the DSIT is referring to the foundation model generative AIs, including large language models, that have been causing a stir since the launch of ChatGPT, and which were a key focus of the UK governments white paper. The five objectives set out by the DSIT, which will frame discussion at the summit, are: developing a shared understanding of the risks posed by frontier AI and the need for action; promoting international collaboration on frontier AI safety, including how best to support national and international frameworks; proposing measures that organisations should take to increase frontier AI safety; identifying areas for potential collaboration on AI safety research; and showcasing how the safe development of AI will enable AI to be used for good globally. The DSIT notes the summit will agree practical next steps to address risks from frontier AI, writing that AI technology poses risks in ways that do not respect national boundaries. The need to address these risks, including at an international level, is increasingly urgent. Expect to see a flurry of commentary from UK politicians in the run up to the summit, as they seek to promote the UK as an influential venue in the AI space and the perfect host for conducting such an international discussion on AI regulation. Across the pond Meanwhile, in the United States, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer told Senate Democrats in a letter on 1 September of his plans for a series of bipartisan AI Insight Forums, expected to feature AI luminaries such as Sam Altman as well as big tech leaders like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg. Schumer notes that these forums will supercharg[e] the Senates typical process so we can stay ahead of AIs rapid development. Underlining the gravity of the task, he continues we must treat AI with the same level of seriousness as national security, job creation, and our civil liberties. Another member of the Senates AI working group, Todd Young, noted separately that the AI Insight Forums will be a comprehensive way for Congress to explore key policy issues related to artificial intelligence as we develop potential legislative solutions. Highlighting a topic that has been the bane of the EUs nascent AI Act, Republican Senator Ted Cruz raised his concerns that Democrats want to impose such stringent regulations on the development of AI that it stifles innovation, and underlining the difficulty of international cooperation, made a reference to the risk that China may take the lead through its investment in AI. A difficult balance The difficulty everywhere, and something the UKs AI Safety Summit will probably look to address, is finding a balance between overly stringent regulation that may be too cumbersome to adapt with the technology and potentially suppress innovation, and an overly laissez faire approach that may end up failing to properly account for, or guard against, the risks posed by AI. The EUs AI Act has come in for criticism from some quarters in this respect, with an open letter from 150 executives from some of Europes largest companies expressing concern about the AI Acts potential to jeopardise Europes competitiveness and technological sovereignty due to its overly restrictive nature. Sam Altman of OpenAI also initially noted the current draft of the AI Act would be over-regulating, before later recanting and declaring most of the regulationmakes total sense. Elsewhere, the chair of the Japan governments AI strategy council, the University of Tokyos Professor Yutaka Matsuo, called the EUs AI Act a little too strict, particularly in respect of its copyright provisions. Japan is expected to lean towards more of a light touch approach around AI regulation than the EU, perhaps tacking closer to the US or UK approaches than the stringent regulation seen in the EUs draft AI Act. On the other hand, certain leading voices have tipped the EUs AI Act to become the global standard, particularly as compliance may be a prerequisite for AI firms to continue accessing the large and lucrative EU market. Paul Barrett of the NYU Stern School of Business told Tech Monitor he believes the concept of pro innovation promoted in the UK and apparently being considered in Japan and the US really means unregulated, and argued that regulation is not necessarily an obstacle to innovation. Monish Darda, CTO of AI company Icertis also noted the draft EU AI Act has potential, and that the world is watching with hope, and expectations that the law will do well. What would a successful summit look like? The UK may have its hands full in attempting to promote a global consensus on the specifics of AI regulation at the summit. Countries look set to continue to pursue their own agendas with AI regulation, and we may expect more doubling down on the competing structures already in evidence such as the self-regulatory, decentralised approaches of the US, UK and Japan, and the prescriptive approach being put forward by the EU. There is also the issue of China, which is promoting a state-led, information control model, where AI is required to promote socialist values. What that looks like, and how it contrasts to the approaches put forward elsewhere in the world, remains an open question. Against this backdrop, any progress the summit can make towards promoting international collaboration and an international framework, or towards greater clarity on how to navigate between overly stringent and overly loose regulation, would be considered a success. All eyes will be on the UK in early November to see what consensus the summit might be able to achieve. Dr. Anas Bargheti, coordinator of the city morgue in Derna, has been working in terrible conditions since early Monday morning. We have had a few very difficult days, surrounded by many bodies, with no electricity, no refrigerators, no communications and a terrible smell, the physician says. It was a disaster. But now the situation is starting to improve. For almost a week, Bargheti has overseen the arrival and storage of bodies recovered from under the rubble and on the seashore after Storm Daniel ripped through Libya, causing two poorly maintained dams outside Derna to burst and devastating a large part of the city. Last Thursday, in view of the risk of a cholera pandemic, the Ministry of Health decided that no more bodies would be kept in storage. As of then, when the remains of a victim are found, they are DNA tested and buried. The floods have already claimed 20,000 victims, including the dead and the missing, according to the estimates of the authorities. My greatest fear was that in the coming months we could suffer outbreaks of contagious diseases. But the arrival of international support with experience in this type of scenario has reassured us. We are receiving medical supplies and medicines from all the health centers in Libya and other countries. What we are lacking now are vaccines. Bargheti doesnt have a moment to waste. For a week now, he has barely slept for more than a few hours, as his red-tinged eyes testify. His biggest concern is the psychological impact of the humanitarian crisis on the survivors. More information Libya floods: A chronicle of a tragedy foretold During the first few days we saw that people were not crying. They were in shock, in a state of denial, including children. We need psychologists to help them deal with this trauma, he says, before climbing into an ambulance and driving to the University Hospital, where those affected by the tragedy are also being treated. At the entrance to the hospital, two young men on stretchers are being tended to. One of them suffered serious stomach injuries when part of a flood-damaged building collapsed. The other has a broken leg. There are hardly any injured people coming in anymore. They were all treated. The biggest problem now is the psychological state of a population that has lost everything: relatives, neighbors, homes, jobs everything. We know that mental health is always a lesser priority, but in this context, it is crucial, says Dr. Arkham Omer Melkauri, coordinator of the humanitarian emergency response at the hospital. The scenes in Derna confirm the fears held by Bargheti and Melkauri. Men like Faisal sit for hours next to what was once their home. When the flood started, my wife and I went up, with my two-year-old daughter and our two-month-old baby, floor by floor to the fifth floor, where the roof is. From there, we saw how many of our neighbors were dying, he says in a quiet voice. The buildings around us disappeared. We had close friends who lived in that house across the street. They all died. They were a family of seven. Faisal spent two days searching for them among the rubble, until he eventually gave up. He imagines that, like hundreds of others, they were swept out to sea by the flooding. They had a two-month-old baby. I cant think of anything else but them, says Faisal, who arrived in Libya 10 years ago as a refugee fleeing the war in Syria. All around him, other men drag their feet, shod in flip-flops, caked with mud. They are looking for anything they can salvage from the ruins. Mohammed has managed to find a bag containing family documents. But he was more relieved to recover some toy perfume bottles belonging to his daughters. Until a week ago, he made a living driving a truck which, like almost everything else in the central district of the city, has also disappeared. Now he entrusts his future and that of his family to God. Mohamed listens attentively to Abd Al Razeq, who has lost his father and his entire paternal family, with whom he lived. My mother is with an acquaintance on the outskirts of Derna. And I spend my days wandering around here in case I can help someone. I sleep anywhere, wherever my friends and acquaintances invite me, he says, adding a plea to the authorities: We always knew that our city was built on the dam canal and that it was very dangerous. Now that it has to be rebuilt, I ask the engineers to pay attention to safety. Looking around, it is hard to imagine that a catastrophe on such a scale could possibly be repeated. In the adjacent street, a truck billows white smoke to disinfect the air and mask the smell of decay. The effect lasts only a few seconds. At the entrances to the city and at checkpoints, the military hand out masks and order passers-by to wear them. Rescue teams recover victims of the disaster in Derna, September 16. STRINGER (EFE) International search efforts On a street corner, young Red Cross volunteers lie on a mountain of sifted earth as newly arrived bulldozers remove debris blocking access to buildings. Rescue teams from several countries monitor the work of the machines in case new bodies are uncovered. After a week of hard work, Derna is no longer a mass grave. Dozens of vehicles crisscross the city, carrying migrant men and women from sub-Saharan Africa employed for cleaning and garbage collection. At the roadside, exhausted men crowd together to receive food, clothes, blankets, and water from the humanitarian aid deliveries that are beginning to arrive in the citys neighborhoods. There are hardly any women, and the few who come to these aid stations are unable or unwilling to talk. It is the men who accompany them who recount the tragedy. On the coast, rescue teams are having more and more difficulty recovering the remains of the victims of this humanitarian catastrophe. Although military helicopters and drones are constantly scouring the coastline, the advanced state of decomposition of the bodies makes collection difficult and increases the risk of transmitting diseases. A week after Storm Daniel devastated Derna, the sea in the port city remains a dark brown, almost black, color. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Rogelio Enriquez: "It seems that all famous chefs are men, but in the kitchens of Madrid there are a lot of women who do not appear in the photos and we want to bring them to light" Adopting sustainable practices, educating the farming community, and fostering collaboration will be at the heart of shaping a sustainable future for agri-nutrients between now and 2050. This was the opinion of speakers at the 13th annual edition of the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) Agri-Nutrients Conference. The conference is taking place from September 17 to 19 at the Ritz-Carlton, Doha, Qatar, under the theme Sustainable Transformation in Practice The Future of Agri-Nutrients. According to GPCA analysis, in 2022 GCC agri-nutrient production amounted to 34.6 million metric tonnes (mMT), which represents 16.2% of global production. As global demand for agri-nutrients continues to increase exponentially, the agri-nutrient industry must develop accurate, effective and practically waste-free agri-nutrients to help support global food production and contribute to food security, speakers said. Essential role Abdulrahman Al-Suwaidi, CEO, Qafco and Chairman, Agri-Nutrients Committee, GPCA, delivered the opening remarks on day one, in which he highlighted the essential role of agri-nutrients. His remarks were followed by an opening keynote entitled Looking ahead Envisioning the world of agri-nutrients in 2050 by Federico Zardi, CEO, Casale SA. In his opening keynote, Zardi called upon the agri-nutrient value chain to engage in a cooperative competitive scenario where healthy competition continues to be the driving force behind innovation and progress, and cooperation among stakeholders contributes to the greater good. Abdulrahman Shamsaddin, CEO, Sabic Agri-Nutrients, and Vice-chair, Agri-Nutrients Committee, GPCA, presented the keynote address, in which he described Sabics 26 years of agri-nutrient innovation. In a plenary session, Prof Robert Stavins, AJ Meyer Professor of Energy and Economic Development, Harvard University, discussed the challenges and opportunities of climate change and energy transition. The opening remarks on day two, will be delivered by Eng Yasser A Rahim Alabbasi, CEO, GPIC and Board Member, International Fertiliser Association (IFA). He will be followed on stage by John Baffes, Senior Economist, Macroeconomics, Trade & Investment, World Bank Group, who will present the keynote address. Finite natural resources Dr Abdulwahab Al-Sadoun, Secretary General, GPCA, commented: With the world population projected to exceed 9.8 billion in 2050 and 11.2 billion in 2100, more pressure is being added on our finite natural resources. Agri-nutrients play an essential role in helping to grow more food with less resources. As major producers and exporters of agri-nutrients globally, our region alone helps to feed over 200 million people globally. Therefore, our role in the global food chain is essential. The future of agri-nutrients will require us to adapt food security strategies to meet mounting demand. It will require us to consider the impact of climate change and strike a balance between the health of our environment and sustainable, profitable business. We must also optimise the agri-nutrients value chain, while reducing carbon emissions, and play an active role in mitigating the climate impact of agriculture through the implementation of sustainable practices, education and collaboration.-- TradeArabia News Service Before being sent to Qenqoro womens prison, in Cusco, Peru, Fanny Hurtado the 45-year-old woman who was arrested in a hospital with a newborn that was not hers tried to sway the court: I got carried away because I wanted to be a mother like every woman. I was depressed because my father had just died. I didnt want to hurt the baby. I saved him. I have sinned by loving a child, she said. Hurtado who was arrested on September 2 told the court that she was in San Jeronimo market when a woman approached her and asked her to take care of her nieces baby for three days. She found out that I couldnt have children from the vendors in the market. Sometimes I told them my things, the woman told the judges, adding that in the past, she had visited assisted reproduction centers, but had no success. In the police interrogation and at court, the woman denied buying the baby. On Friday, September 22, the child will have spent one month under the protection of the Ministry of Women and Vulnerable Populations. However, chats between Hurtado and a woman named Rosa Doris indicate that a payment of 3,000 soles ($811) was made for the child, and that money was still owed. They told me the money was for the legal adoption procedures, said Hurtado. The they she is referring to are Ruben Mora and Lizet Zambrano, the daughter of Rosa Doris. But it is Doris who appears to be the ringleader of the alleged criminal network that sold children under the facade of an obstetric center. Both Mora and Zambrano received cash deposits. Whats more, Mora was arrested in the middle of the act, while transporting the fake mother and the woman allegedly selling her baby to Manco Capac. Despite this, the judge in charge of the case, Zulay Sanchez, granted them temporary release due to a formality, arguing that the prosecutors office had arbitrarily detained the two because they did not have a prior warrant. Fanny Hurtado Altamirano holds a baby while being treated by hospital staff. Rosa Doris did not return to the hearing where she was sentenced to nine months in pre-trial detention and her whereabouts are unknown. The control office of the Judicial Branch of Cusco has opened an investigation into Judge Sanchez over her decision to grant temporary release. As for Lizet Zambrano, her whereabouts are also a mystery. Although she was not arrested red-handed, she is directly linked to the crime. Within the groups organization which was called Los Imperiales de San Jeronimo (The Imperials of St. Jerome) she was in charge of caring for the babies and certifying their births. Zambrano claimed to have a bachelor in obstetrics, but Emiliana Huacasi, the dean of the Cusco College of Obstetricians, said that she was not a member nor was she authorized to practice. In addition to Zambrano, Rosa Doris other daughter Candy Gutierrez Huayhua was also involved in the alleged criminal group, which operated near Plaza Mayor square in Cusco. The Peruvian newspaper Peru 21 published a conversation involving Gutierrez, who until now was not included in the case. Candy, does that lady still want a doll? Doris asked her daughter. Yes, I think so. She told me that she was sure, she responded. Everything indicates that it was a family-run organization: Rosa Doris and Candy Gutierrez Huayhua were in charge of recruiting surrogate mothers, while Zambrano forged the documents: the mother and her two daughters worked together. According to the investigations, the three not only sold babies but also fetuses. Presumably they were used for offerings to the land. Whats more, if the babies had any flaws, it was assumed that they could put them to sleep. That is, kill them, said Deputy Prosecutor for Human Trafficking Paulo Rivera Quispe. In the obstetric center, which has been closed for two weeks, investigators found an altar with incense and charcoal. According to Perus Ombudsmans Office, 299 minors have disappeared in Cusco since January this year. This figure could be a consequence of the criminal acts of Los Imperiales de San Jeronimo. It could even shed light on the mysterious theft of two bodies in recent months: in July, a fetus went missing from the Antonio Lorena hospital morgue; and in August, a grave containing the remains of an eight-month-old child was desecrated in the Sol de Oro cemetery, in the San Sebastian district. There are more people involved, including health personnel. It would not be the first baby to be taken to the hospital where Fanny Hurtado Altamirano was arrested, a police source told the Cusco newspaper. The prosecution estimates that about 20 children have been trafficked. A third child of Rosa Doris has also become involved with the story: her son, Alvaro Zambrano Huayhua, a non-commissioned officer in the National Police. When his mother was arrested, the police officer was absent from his base in the Puno region for four days. He left irregularly, without his bosses knowledge. We are not going to cover up any of these acts, declared police chief Enrique Felipe Monroy. Members of the Cusco Superior Court of Justice escort Doris Rosa Huayhua. Policia Nacional Meanwhile, the Human Trafficking Prosecutors Office continues to search for the biological mother of the newborn, who sparked the investigation that uncovered the criminal network. Authorities also want to track down the women who went to the obstetric clinic, which carried out abortions and deliveries. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Jairo H. C. is 69 years old and has dedicated his life to cocaine. His subordinates referred to him as El Senor and he was the target of law enforcement agencies in several European countries. He was arrested in June, in his laboratory in a house in Villanueva de la Canada, a municipality in the region of Madrid, Spain. El Senor is an experienced cook a drug chef, as criminal organizations and security forces call them one of the key figures in processing the products that reach the consumer. On a higher rung are the so-called chemists, who do not necessarily have formal education in the subject, but who know how to make the secret formula to impregnate and extract drugs from any object or substance. Without the chemists, there is no business. They can camouflage [cocaine] in anything you can imagine. We have found it in clothes, in coffee, in cement, in fruit pulp..., say investigators at the headquarters of the Central Brigade of Narcotics of the Spanish National Police Corps. More and more drug stashes are being detected with impregnated drugs, says a police officer. The reasons are obvious: using this method, it is more difficult to track drugs via shipping records and easier to avoid them being stolen from the traffickers by common criminals. Impregnating drugs in literally anything imaginable is the preferred security method of drug-trafficking organizations, according to police sources. As such, the role of chemists and cooks is more important than ever. They are the ones who get their hands dirty. Using a chemical formula, they camouflage cocaine in the chosen object, and once it arrives at its destination, the reverse process is carried out to extract the base, which is then dried to obtain the white powder that reaches the illicit drugs market. Within the trafficking organizations, this is known as the system. Sometimes it is so sophisticated that it is practically indecipherable. Three years ago, Polish authorities intercepted drums of canned fish oils in which they knew drugs were being transported. But they have been unable to crack the formula to unmask the system. The person who designs the formula doesnt necessarily have to have any theoretical knowledge many lack basic education but they have learned how to do it by watching others, says an inspector from the narcotics brigade. How many locks do you want? is the first question a chemist asks, referring to the security level. The maximum is three, which means that the formula will be more complex and difficult to detect, but also that more drugs will be lost in the process. It is a question of priorities. If you ask for level 3, we have to carry out very specific laboratory tests to detect them, but you leave half of the cocaine behind, explains an agent specializing in narcotics. Chemists also charge depending on their notoriety and the amount of work they will have to undertake. Sometimes they have so much power that they check out the place the organization has chosen to set up the laboratory first. If they are not convinced that is sufficiently off the grid, the operation is suspended until another one is found, adds another investigator. Drug pills seized during Operation 'Butterfly'. Matias Chiofalo (Europa Press) Real-life Breaking Bad The police have even arrested professors or university graduates in the pay of criminal organizations. In June, the narcotics brigade launched Operation Butterfly, in which they dismantled a synthetic drug distribution network throughout Spain. They seized 150,000 ecstasy pills, 135 kilograms of amphetamine and four kilograms of pink cocaine. The laboratory where the drugs were processed was located in the Madrid satellite town of Alcala de Henares and run by a 32-year-old Spaniard with a degree in pharmacy whom investigators nicknamed Breaking Bad after the popular television series in which a high-school chemistry teacher becomes embroiled in the business of manufacturing methamphetamine. The mans mother, the owner of an esoteric store, helped him in the distribution of anabolics that he produced and supplied through the business. This phenomenon has also been observed in other countries. In October 2020, Mexico was shocked to learn that a chemical engineer from the prestigious National Autonomous University, a certain Salvador C., was in charge of a laboratory dismantled by the authorities in an investigation code-named Operation Blue. In that case, the engineers job was to manufacture fentanyl, the substance that is causing a public health crisis in several U.S. cities. Cooks or chefs usually occupy a lower link in the chain and are sometimes led to the drug labs blindfolded, so they have no idea where they are located. This process is international in scale: they are generally installed in a property on the outskirts of a big city or in an isolated village to process drugs for the duration of their tourist visa. Once in the laboratory, the chemist explains the process to extract the drug to the cooks, as if they were his assistants. For them, coming to work in Europe is like playing in the Champions League, thats what the Mexican authorities have told us, says a narcotics brigade agent. The chemists are kept in close confines. Police analysis of seized cellphones have verified that some have been reprimanded for sending photos to their relatives or friends from inside the laboratory. They are not allowed out even to eat: a quartermaster is provided who cooks or brings them food. There are also cases in which a chemist turns out not to possess the expertise claimed when hired by the drug traffickers. This, inevitably, leads to problems in the country where the drug is processed. During surveillance, we detected that there was some issue, that the process was stopped. We didnt understand what was going on. When we arrested them, we discovered that they had run out of ammonia and went to a supermarket to buy more. But they bought a perfumed one, with a different composition from the normal one, so the system wasnt working, says an inspector from the brigade. The chemists also keep their eyes on current events and choose specific shipments in which to impregnate cocaine. If they read that there is a shortage of some raw material due to the war in Ukraine for example, they send a shipment from the other side of the Atlantic containing that particular product because it will attract less attention being imported at that moment, says a researcher. There is no stone left unturned to find the perfect formula. Migrants rescued at sea wait, after disembarking from a vessel, on the Sicilian island of Lampedusa, Italy, on September 18, 2023. The Italian Cabinet met Monday to adopt new measures to crack down on migration after the southern island of Lampedusa was again overwhelmed by a wave of arrivals from Tunisia and the migration issue returned to center stage in Europe with talk of a naval blockade. Premier Giorgia Meloni has said the Cabinet measures will focus on migrants who dont qualify for asylum and are slated to be repatriated to their home countries. The plan is to extend the amount of time such people can be detained to the EU maximum of 18 months and increase the number of detention centers to hold them until they are sent back, since the capacity in Italy has always been insufficient. Meloni announced the extraordinary measures after Lampedusa, which is closer to Tunisia than the Italian mainland, was overwhelmed last week by nearly 7,000 migrants in a day, more than the islands resident population. Italy has been offloading them slowly by ferry to Sicily and other ports, but the arrivals once again stoked tensions on the island and in political corridors, especially ahead of European Parliament elections next year. Amidst the domestic and EU political jockeying, Meloni resurrected campaign calls for a naval blockade of North Africa to prevent human traffickers from launching their smuggling boats into the Mediterranean. Meloni was on hand in Tunis when the European Commission signed an accord with the Tunisian government pledging economic aid in exchange for help preventing departures; a similar accord was signed years ago with Libya. Human rights groups have blasted the Libya accord as a violation of international maritime law, insisting that Libya isnt a safe port and that migrants intercepted by the Libyan coast guard are returned to detention centers where abuses are rife. Meloni visited Lampedusa on Sunday with Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who took a hard line, vowing: We will decide who comes to the European Union, and under what circumstances. Not the smugglers. Von der Leyen laid out a 10-point plan that included a pledge of support to prevent departures of smuggling boats by establishing operational partnerships on anti-smuggling with countries of origins and transit. The plan envisages a possible working arrangement between Tunisia and Frontex, the EU border force with air and sea assets that currently assists search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean, and a coordinating task force within Europol. The Commission hasnt ruled out the possibility that a naval blockade is under consideration. We have expressed the support to explore these possibilities raised by Italy, Commission spokeswoman Anitta Hipper said Monday. Under the deal von der Leyen signed with Tunisia, the EU pledged to provide funds for the provision of equipment, training, and technical support necessary to further improve the management of Tunisias borders. For example, it is helping to pay for the refurbishment of 17 vessels belonging to Tunisian authorities. We will speed up the supply of equipment to the Tunisian coast guard, von der Leyen said in Lampedusa. The latest influx is challenging unity within the EU, its member states and also in Melonis far-right-led government, especially with European elections looming. Some member countries have objected to the way von der Leyen pushed the Tunisia plan through and complain that they were not properly consulted. Vice Premier Matteo Salvini, head of the populist, right-wing League, has challenged the efficacy of Melonis EU-Tunisia deal and hosted French right-wing leader Marine Le Pen at an annual League rally in northern Italy on Sunday. Just a few days earlier, Le Pens niece and far-right politician Marion Marechal was on Lampedusa blasting the French governments response to the migration issue. The French government of Emmanuel Macron has shifted right on migration and security issues, and on Monday, his interior minister, Gerald Darmanin, was heading to Rome for meetings. Darmanin said before he left that France would help Italy maintain its border to prevent people from arriving but is not prepared to take in migrants who have arrived in Lampedusa in recent days. Things are getting very difficult in Lampedusa. Thats why we should help our Italian friends. But there should not be a message given to people coming on our soil that they are welcomed in our countries no matter what, he said on Frances Europe-1 radio. Our will is to fully welcome those who should be welcomed, but we should absolutely send back those who have no reason to be in Europe, he said, citing people arriving from the Ivory Coast or Guinea or Gambia, saying there is no obvious political reason to give them asylum. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition State Rep. Richard Nelson, a Mandeville Republican who campaigned for Louisiana governor on an ambitious policy platform but never gained traction in polls, dropped out of the race Wednesday and endorsed the current front-runner, Attorney General Jeff Landry. Hunter Biden, center, watches his father, President Joe Biden, hug first lady Jill Biden during the 59th presidential inauguration at the U.S. Capitol in Washington on Jan. 20, 2021. At left are Vice President Kamala Harris and the president's daughter, Ashley Biden. The mortgage market faces a turning point, experts say, as new fixed mortgage rates have stayed below variable rates for several months and predictions grow that the cash rate has peaked. National Australia Bank and Westpac last week became the latest banks to reduce some of their fixed rates, with both lenders dropping certain two-year rates, following cuts from the Commonwealth Bank in August. For the first time since January last year, the average fixed rate dipped below the average variable rate in May. Credit: AFR Chief executive of mortgage broker Finspo, Angus Gilfillan, said new fixed interest rates had crossed a pivotal threshold, dipping below new variable rates for the first time since January 2022. The current situation suggests an inflection point, where the market no longer expects interest rate rises to occur in the medium term, he said. Arnaults changes mean he doesnt have to retire next year as originally expected. That hasnt stopped speculation about whether he can ensure that his heirs avoid a Succession-like drama. (The French media is full of headlines comparing the Arnaults with the Roys, the fictional family in the HBO series. The family hates this talk, and takes pains to play down parallels to the show.) At 28, Frederic Arnault is the CEO of Tag Heuer. The eldest sibling is Delphine, 48, chair and CEO of Christian Dior Couture and a member of the LVMH executive committee and its board. Antoine, 46, is not only in charge of the groups image and sustainability efforts but CEO of its menswear brand Berluti, chair of the Italian luxury house Loro Piana, CEO of Christian Dior SE and a member of the LVMH board. Both are from Arnaults first marriage, to Anne Dewavrin. The youngest three are from Arnaults second marriage, to Helene Mercier, a Canadian concert pianist: Alexandre, 31, is executive vice president of product and communications at Tiffany; Frederic, 28, is CEO of Tag Heuer; and Jean, 24, is Louis Vuittons watch director. In a rare interview in LVMHs headquarters in Paris, Arnault brushed off any comparison with televisions Roys. Its not an obligation, nor inevitable, that a kid is my successor, he said. The best person inside the family or outside the family should be one day my successor. But its not something that I hope is a duel for the near future. Every month, the five siblings meet with their father over lunch on the top floor of LVMHs headquarters. For an hour and a half, they discuss business, including finances, upcoming product introductions and the social media payoff of over-the-top events. For example, a Vuitton menswear show by the brands new designer Pharrell Williams attracted such names as Kim Kardashian and LeBron James, resulting in over 16 million YouTube hits. Make no mistake, Jean said. We discuss things, but at the end, its he who decides. Amid the bonhomie, the siblings say, Arnault is gauging how each of his children is measuring up. A graduate of Frances elite Ecole Polytechnique, Arnault honed his childrens math skills nearly every night before dinnertime. Antoine recalled that getting anything less than a perfect grade on important exams wasnt acceptable. Ian Rogers, a former chief digital officer at LVMH, said Alexandre had told him, My business education started when I was 9, at the breakfast table. By age 10, Delphine was accompanying her father to Dior stores. He has made weekend inspections of LVMH properties in Paris with his children a routine for more than three decades. Loading The father paired each of his children with a mentor as they entered the business, to teach them the brands and monitor their performance. Delphine and Antoine started in novice positions before ascending to the C-suite. The three youngest moved more quickly into senior roles, probably because he feels time is running out and he needs to speed up the process of learning, said Pierre-Yves Roussel, a former chief of the LVMH fashion group and the current CEO of Tory Burch. All of them understand that the family itself is now as much a brand as the brands they own, and have wasted no time making their presence known. In less than two years at Tiffany, Alexandre helped seal a deal with Beyonce and Jay-Z, creating a social media sensation. (In 2016, Alexandre persuaded his father to acquire Rimowa, a German maker of aluminum suitcases, which was founded in 1898. He immediately set about making the utilitarian luggage company cool.) Delphine created the LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers, a high-profile talent competition. And Antoine has thrown wide the previously closed doors of many LVMH companies with a series of open days that invite the public inside factories and workshops. The question now is who can keep desirability at the heart of LVMH in an age of protests and global economic uncertainty. Arnault insisted repeatedly during the interview that his main goal was not profits. Its desirability, he said, and we must make sure that in 50 years we are still at the top. Desirability, said Roussel, is the most popular word at the company. But it highlights a potential problem, he said: A consumer waking up and saying, You know, Im buying this product, but theres someone making so much money out of it. Is it desirable that youre buying a product from someone who is the richest man in the world? In France, Arnault is a divisive figure: hailed by the business and political worlds for building the countrys biggest corporate titan, and reviled by others for his almost unimaginable wealth. In April, as Frances nationwide protests gathered steam over President Emmanuel Macrons bid to raise the retirement age two years to 64, demonstrators broke into the LVMH headquarters, denouncing Arnault as the embodiment of the ultrarich. He is a symbol of what is wrong in this society! one shouted. Theres the risk that none of us is able to run the business as well as he has.: Alexandre Arnault, vice president of Tiffany & Co. Credit: Getty Images The question now is who can keep desirability at the heart of LVMH in an age of protests and global economic uncertainty. Last year, Arnault tinkered with the corporate structure of his empire, concentrating decision-making with his five children. Each has a 20 per cent stake, and they cannot sell their shares for 30 years without unanimous board approval. The Italian Minister of Health, Orazio Schillaci, in parliament. Mauro Scrobogna (AP / LaPresse) Orazio Schillaci, the health minister in the cabinet of the far-right Giorgia Meloni since October, finds himself at the center of a scientific scandal. The Italian left-wing newspaper Il manifesto conducted an investigation that yielded indications of possible fraud in some of his published work, and the prestigious scientific journal Science picked up on the investigation, publishing an article of its own about possible misconduct by the minister. The opposition is already calling on Meloni to take action. Il manifesto analyzed the scientific articles signed by Schillaci between 2018 and 2022, when he was rector of the second-biggest university of Rome, the Universita di Tor Vergata, as well as serving as a minister. His extraordinarily prolific rate of scientific publication set off alarm bells: in the last four years he has signed 110 studies, and 30 so far in 2023. This year, his political activity has left him enough time to sign nearly four studies a month. Thanks to AI-powered software called ImageTwin, which Il manifesto said can compare a particular image with a database of tens of millions of images used in the scientific literature in a matter of seconds, it has been possible to identify duplicates in several papers where the minister was responsible for supervising the scientific content or the corresponding author, that is to say, the person to contact for further inquiries about the research. Many of the studies dealt with the diagnosis and cure of cancer. Same image, different tumor The most relevant case involves an image labeled prostate tumor cells in a publication in the Journal of Clinical Medicine in 2021. The same image had already been used in another article from 2019 in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, and had been described as breast tumor cells. In another case, the same image had been used twice in the same 2019 article in the Journal of Clinical Medicine: in one case, to illustrate prostate tumor cells in patients with metastasis; and in another case, after having enlarged the image, as cells from patients who had not had metastases. Furthermore, in another study, published in Applied Sciences in 2021, the team led by Schillaci used the same image to show cells to which a drug had been administered and, after recropping, also as an example of cells without treatment. I wouldnt expect for a researcher of that level to make that type of mistake so frequently Science integrity expert Elizabeth Bik The minister responded to Il manifesto that he did not know that his articles contained errors. I am not an expert in electron microscopy, I trusted the person who provided those images. We will check if there are indeed errors. One of the ministers scientific collaborators and co-author of the published articles, Manuel Scimeca, has confirmed to the Italian newspaper that the duplications are not appropriate and require a correction. He spoke about an error when the images were uploaded. But the Dutch scientific integrity expert Elisabeth Bik, who has analyzed the material mentioned by Il manifesto, believes that this case is far from normal. I wouldnt expect for a researcher of that level to make that type of mistake so frequently, she said. The manipulation of images is the most frequent instance of scientific malpractice, which can sometimes be considered scientific fraud and lead to the withdrawal of the published paper. Carelessness? According to this microbiologist, who has been working for more than 10 years hunting for signs of errors and fraud in images of scientific articles, at best, it is multiple carelessness. That is if we rule out intentionality. Also, these are the visible errors. But then, what will be the level of sloppiness in data that is much more difficult to verify, such as that contained in a table? A mistake is always understandable. And each magazine can correct them individually, but the magazines do not see the general pattern: it is not a question of having it happen once, but a number of times. And this also raises the question: why is your name in that article if you have not done the research or taken charge of verifying the data? says the fraud expert. Biologist Enrico Bucci, a research professor at Temple University in Philadelphia (USA) is the founder of the company Resis, which is dedicated to detecting plagiarism and behavior that affects scientific integrity. According to Bucci, one of the magazines where these problematic images were found is whats known as a predatory journal, that is, as Bucci himself explains, a fake scientific journal. These are journals created with the aim of sending a flurry of requests to researchers to send in articles that are published without adequate scientific review and in exchange for payment. They have no scientific credibility, although they are presented under the guise of serious journals. The magazine Cancer Research and Reports is one of these, according to Bucci. I wonder how it is possible that a rector who already has hundreds of publications to his name can decide to publish an article for which he is the lead author in a journal like that. According to this specialist, who has published research on the subject, between 10% and 12% of scientific articles in the field of biomedicine contain some problematic image. Bucci is blunt about the ministers scientific merit: I very much doubt that if you are doing another job like university rector or minister, you can be a good researcher. Schillacis successor at the head of Tor Vergata University, Nathan Levialdi Ghiron, says that all research at his university is done with seriousness and rigor, although the minister has so far shown no intention of accepting his responsibility. Schillaci is the second member of the Italian executive that is giving Meloni headaches: Daniela Santanche, the tourism minister, is under investigation for alleged tax fraud. Schillacis position could be in danger just when a new spike in Covid cases could signal a complicated autumn. The Italian Left lawmaker Nicola Frantoianni has already requested Schillacis appearance in parliament, while his party colleague Angelo Bonelli has asked Meloni for explanations in the same forum. The microbiologist and Democratic Party legislator Andrea Crisanti has described the case as very serious. In recent years, scientific fraud has increasingly come under public scrutiny. An investigation by EL PAIS brought to light a system originating in Saudi Arabia that pays scientists to cheat to improve the rankings of the best universities in the world. Last summer, the president of Stanford University, Marc Tessier-Lavigne, had to resign after an independent review found flaws in studies that he had supervised. Homicide Squad detectives have charged a man with murder after a woman was found dead in Melbournes west on Monday afternoon. The 42-year-old man from Melton South has been charged with one count of murder. Police said emergency services were called to a house on Sutherland Avenue at about 1.30pm after reports a woman had been stabbed. When police arrived, they found a deceased woman with stab wounds inside the home. The man has been remanded to appear before Melbourne Magistrates Court on Tuesday. In his 40-year career as a journalist, Western Australias Gary Adshead has pursued the truth no matter how ugly, how dangerous or how ridiculous. Whether on crooks, crimes, state secrets or heroic rescues, we take you behind the headlines of the biggest stories of his career. This week on The Reporter podcast, Michael Thomson and Gary Adshead discuss the revealing of former Perth politician Barry Urban as a master manipulator. Loading Adshead spent years dismantling the web of faked and forged achievements this MP spun to mislead those he was supposed to represent, and finally landed his quarry in jail. The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up here. A renovated four-bedroom family home in a quiet area in Northcote attracted five bidders at auction on Saturday and sold for $2.275 million. A young family won the keys to 35 Whalley Street, which has an impressive open-plan living area with high ceilings and a seamless transition to an outdoor deck. A vendor bid started the auction at $1.95 million and competitive bidding followed. In front of a healthy crowd, $25,000 bids brought the house to $2.2 million with smaller increments up until the sale. Trudeau said Canada has declared its deep concerns to the Indian government. Last week at the G20 I brought them personally and directly to Prime Minister Modi in no uncertain terms, Trudeau said. Any involvement of a foreign government in the killing of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil is an unacceptable violation of our sovereignty. Trudeau said his government has been working closely and coordinating with Canadas allies on the case. In the strongest possible terms I continue to urge the government of India to cooperate with Canada to get to the bottom of this matter, he said. Delhi-based The Wire identified the diplomat as Pavan Kumar Rai, described as the Canadian head of the Research and Analysis Wing, Indias foreign intelligence agency. Trudeau said he knows there are some members of the Indo-Canadian community who feel angry or frightened, and he called for calm. Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc said Canadas national security advisor and the head of Canadas spy service have travelled to India to meet their counterparts and to confront the Indian intelligence agencies with the allegations. Canada Minister of Foreign Affairs Melanie Joly. Credit: AP He called it an active homicide investigation led by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Joly said Trudeau also raised the matter with US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. We are deeply concerned about the allegations referenced by Prime Minister Trudeau, White House National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson. We remain in regular contact with our Canadian partners. It is critical that Canadas investigation proceed and the perpetrators be brought to justice. Joly also said she would raise the issue with her peers in the G7 on Monday evening in New York City ahead of the United Nations General Assembly. A photograph of late temple president Hardeep Singh Nijjar is seen on a banner outside the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara Sahib in Surrey, British Columbia. Credit: AP Opposition Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre said if the allegations are true they represent an outrageous affront to our sovereignty. Janice Stein, a political scientist and international relations expert at the University of Toronto, said to kill a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil is astounding. Its tragic for Canada because we have issues of foreign interference with the two largest economies in Asia, China and India. And we have two very large diasporas from both countries. This is not what we want, Stein said. Loading We have the most diverse community in the world in Canada. We have people from everybodys country. We accept this and we give license [to] Russia to hunt Canadian Ukrainians. You cant. The Khalistan movement is banned in India, where officials see it and affiliated groups as a national security threat. But the movement still has some support in northern India, as well as beyond, in countries like Canada and the United Kingdom which are home to a sizable Sikh diaspora. India is also a member of the Quad, the strategic grouping that includes Australia, Japan and the US. Context on Canada and India Canada has the highest population of Sikhs outside their home state of Punjab in India and the country has been the site of many protests that have irked India. The Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara Sahib centre in Surrey, British Columbia, where temple president Hardeep Singh Nijjar was gunned down. Credit: AP Indian leaders say there are some fringe groups in Canada that are still sympathetic to the cause of an independent Sikh state, carved out of India. September 2023: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed strong concerns about protests in Canada against India to Trudeau on the sidelines of the G20 summit in New Delhi. While a Sikh insurgency was suppressed in India in the 1990s, authorities have been wary of any revival of agitation, with a particular focus on small groups of Sikhs in Canada, who support the separatist demand and occasionally stage protests outside Indian embassies. June 2023: Indias foreign minister, S. Jaishankar, hit out at Canada for allowing a float in a parade depicting the 1984 assassination of then-Indian prime minister Indira Gandhi by her bodyguards, perceived to be glorification of violence by Sikh separatists. Loading Indira Gandhi was assassinated in 1984 by two Sikh bodyguards after she allowed the storming of the holiest Sikh temple, aimed at flushing out Sikh separatists who demanded an independent homeland to be known as Khalistan. The storming of the temple had angered Sikhs around the world. March 2023: India summoned Canadas High Commissioner to convey concern over pro-Khalistan protesters in Canada who breached the security of Indias diplomatic mission and consulates. OFFICIAL NHTSA RECALL SUMMARY September 18, 2023 The followingto one or more of your vehicles. Click on the NHTSA Recall ID Number below to read more about the safety issue and the reason for the recall. To find out if your specific passenger vehicle is included in the recall, use our VIN Look-up Tool. NHTSA Recall ID Number : 23V616 Manufacturer : PACCAR Incorporated Subject : Driveshaft May Break Make Model Model Years KENWORTH K270 2023 KENWORTH K370 2023 PETERBILT 220 2023 NHTSA Recall ID Number : 23V617 Manufacturer : PACCAR Incorporated Subject : Fuel Filter Hoses May Disconnect or Leak Fuel Make Model Model Years KENWORTH T280 2023-2024 KENWORTH T380 2023-2024 KENWORTH T480 2023-2024 PETERBILT 536 2023-2024 PETERBILT 537 2023-2024 PETERBILT 548 2023-2024 NHTSA Recall ID Number : 23V619 Manufacturer : Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. Subject : No Warning When Key is Left in Ignition/FMVSS 114 Make Model Model Years VOLKSWAGEN JETTA 2019 NHTSA Recall ID Number : 23V620 Manufacturer : Ducati North America Subject : Side Stand May Open Unexpectedly While Riding Make Model Model Years DUCATI XDIAVEL 2018-2020 DUCATI XDIAVEL S 2018-2020 NHTSA Recall ID Number : 23V621 Manufacturer : Daimler Trucks North America, LLC Subject : AC Electrical Connection May Overheat Make Model Model Years THOMAS BUILT BUSES SAF-T-LINER C2 2024 NHTSA Recall ID Number : 23V622 Manufacturer : BMW of North America, LLC Subject : Front Passenger Knee Air Bag May Not Deploy Make Model Model Years BMW X5 2024 BMW X6 2024 BMW X7 2024 BMW XM 2023 NHTSA Recall ID Number : 23V623 Manufacturer : Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) Subject : Loose Battery Cables May Cause Fire Make Model Model Years ALFA ROMEO TONALE 2023-2024 DODGE HORNET 2023-2024 NHTSA Recall ID Number : 23V624 Manufacturer : Midwest Fire Equipment & Repair Company Subject : Loss of Drive Power from Software Error Make Model Model Years MIDWEST FIRE ALL-POLY SERIES 2022-2023 NHTSA Recall ID Number : 23V625 Manufacturer : Ford Motor Company Subject : Unsecured Transmission May Cause Rollaway Make Model Model Years FORD E-350 2024-2025 FORD F-650 SD 2024-2025 FORD F-750 SD 2024-2025 NHTSA Recall ID Number : 23V626 Manufacturer : Ford Motor Company Subject : High Voltage Battery May Short Circuit Make Model Model Years FORD EXPLORER 2020-2022 LINCOLN AVIATOR 2020-2022 NHTSA Recall ID Number : 23V627 Manufacturer : Winnebago Industries, Inc. Subject : Awning May Extend Unintentionally Make Model Model Years WINNEBAGO TRAVATO 2017-2024 NHTSA Recall ID Number : 23V628 Manufacturer : Nissan North America, Inc. Subject : Rearview Camera Image May Not Display/FMVSS 111 Make Model Model Years NISSAN ALTIMA 2019-2021 NISSAN SENTRA 2020-2021 NHTSA Recall ID Number : 23V629 Manufacturer : Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC Subject : Front Tow Eye May Detach During Towing Make Model Model Years MERCEDES-BENZ GLC300 2023 NHTSA Recall ID Number : 23V631 Manufacturer : Spartan Fire, LLC Subject : Delay in Park Brake Engagement/FMVSS 121 Make Model Model Years KME PANTHER 2022-2023 KME PREDATOR 2023 SPARTAN FIRE FC-94 2022-2024 SPARTAN FIRE GLADIATOR 2021-2024 SPARTAN FIRE METROSTAR 2021-2024 NHTSA Recall ID Number : 23V632 Manufacturer : Kentucky Trailer Manufacturing Subject : Clutch Overheating May Cause Fire Make Model Model Years KENTUCKY TRAILER XL-12 2019-2023 NHTSA Recall ID Number : 23V634 Manufacturer : Kia America, Inc. Subject : Loss of Drive Power from Fuel Pump Failure Make Model Model Years KIA STINGER 2018-2021 NHTSA Recall ID Number : 23V635 Manufacturer : Gillig, LLC Subject : Loose Fasteners May Allow Driveshaft to Detach Make Model Model Years GILLIG LOW FLOOR 2022-2023 NHTSA Recall ID Number : 23V638 Manufacturer : Forest River, Inc. Subject : Overcharged Battery May Cause Fire Make Model Model Years FOREST RIVER PALOMINO 2024 What is a recall? When a manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determines that a vehicle creates an unreasonable risk to safety or fails to meet minimum safety standards, the manufacturer is required to fix that vehicle at no cost to the owner. That can be done by repairing it, replacing it, offering a refund (for equipment) or, in rare cases, repurchasing the car. What should I do if my vehicle is included in this recall? If your vehicle is included in this recall, it is very important that you get it fixed as soon as possible given the potential danger to you and your passengers if it is not addressed. You should receive a separate letter in the mail from the vehicle manufacturer, notifying you of the recall and explaining when the remedy will be available, whom to contact to repair your vehicle, and to remind you that the repair will be done at no charge to you. If you believe your vehicle is included in the recall, but you do not receive a letter in the mail from the vehicle manufacturer, please call NHTSA's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236, or contact your vehicle manufacturer or dealership. Thank you for your attention to this important safety matter and for your commitment to helping save lives on America's roadways. Additional Resources Understanding Vehicle Recalls Recalls FAQ Recalls Only Work If You're Aware of Them AAA to Provide Roadside Services Using Apple Satellites AAA to Enhance Roadside Services Using Apple Satellites Roadside Assistance will now be available to iPhone users stranded in remote locations AAA announces that users of the newly unveiled iPhone 15 lineup, as well as iPhone 14 users, can now access AAA service via satellite. As one of North America's largest and most trusted membership organizations, AAA responds to approximately 30 million calls for roadside assistance annually and serves more than 63 million members. By working with Apple, AAA can now reach people who may otherwise be unable to get help. "Our partnership with Apple will be welcomed news for iPhone users stranded in more remote locations with poor cellular or internet access," said Mike Hoshaw, vice president of automotive services, AAA East Central. "Our commitment to safety will be elevated to a new level with iPhone's satellites, which will help us rescue those who would have otherwise had difficulty reaching us." iPhone users requesting roadside assistance can be connected via satellite with AAA after answering a few questions to capture important details. Users will receive clear guidance on how to stay connected to a satellite so they can message with a AAA agent and get important information about the status of their request. Roadside Assistance via satellite* will be available to all iPhone 15 and iPhone 14 users in the US, regardless of whether they are a AAA member. Once the questionnaire is received, AAA members will be verified, and service will be provided**. Non-members will be responsible for payment upon completion of the service. Roadside Assistance via satellite is built on the groundbreaking technology that powers Emergency SOS via satellite, launched by Apple in 2022, which allows iPhone 14 and now iPhone 15 users to access emergency services via satellite when cellular coverage or Wi-Fi is unavailable. *Individuals must be located near a road to receive service. AAA does not provide off-road vehicle recovery. **Service will be provided according to the terms of membership and will be available in the U.S. and Puerto Rico beginning September 22, 2023. AAA East Central is a not-for-profit association with 69 local offices in Kentucky, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia serving 2.7 million members. ALL-NEW MINI COUNTRYMAN ELECTRIC MAKES NORTH AMERICA DEBUT ON THE OCCASION OF CLIMATE WEEK NYC. SEE ALSO:There Will Be No Climate Benefit From Electric Vehicles Until All Of Us Are Dead, If Ever MINI USA is marking Climate Week NYC , the largest annual climate event of its kind, with its North American debut of the new all-MINI Countryman Electric, which makes its first appearance in the U.S. following the World Premiere earlier this month at IAA Mobility in Munich. Expected to arrive on U.S. shores for consumers in the fall of 2024, this evolution for the largest model in the MINI family is another step in the brands journey toward fully electrified mobility and sustainable design. The new electric Countryman makes it first presence on American shores at a special panel called Driving Forward: The Transforming of Future Mobility hosted by URBAN-X, the leading urban technology startup platform by MINI, at Newlab in the Brooklyn Navy Yard. URBAN-X, which recently welcomed its 13th cohort of early-stage startups, is committed to fostering more sustainable, livable, and resilient cities by nurturing startups that offer impactful climate technology solutions. The all-new MINI Countryman Electric is a significant step as MINI moves to becoming a more sustainable and fully electrified brand by 2030. said Mike Peyton, President of MINI Business Innovations LLC, and Vice President of MINI of the Americas Sustainability is also a key mission of URBAN-X, our start-up accelerator focused on climate tech innovations that help make city life better. Thats why its a perfect fit to showcase our next new electric MINI at URBAN-X on the occasion of Climate Week NYC. A bold new addition to the MINI family, the all-new MINI Countryman Electric boasts a revolutionized digital ecosystem, greater utility, electric power output that keeps the fun to drive spirit going, and a design that is forward-thinking but unmistakably MINI. At the event the New MINI Countryman Electrics North American debut takes place alongside the appearance of the new BMW CE-04 battery electric scooter and the BMW iX5 Hydrogen prototype that showcases the companys development of hydrogen technology for future series production. The panel at URBAN-X also features Alexander Bilgeri, BMW Group Vice President of Corporate Communications for Human Resources, Production, Purchasing and Sustainability, as the session explores the transforming future of mobility with several start-ups and innovators. As part of the panel Bilgeri is presenting the BMW Group sustainability strategy and the companys plans to meet its decarbonization targets by 2050. About MINI in the US MINI is an independent brand of the BMW Group. In the United States, MINI USA operates as a business unit of BMW of North America, LLC, located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey and includes the marketing and sales organizations for the MINI brand. The authorized MINI USA dealer organization is represented by a network of 104 MINI full passenger car sales and service dealers located throughout the US. MINI USA began selling vehicles in the U.S. in 2002 with the introduction of the MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S Hardtops. Since then, the MINI brand in the U.S. has grown to encompass a model range of five unique vehicles. URBAN-X is the platform for founders reimagining city life. Built by MINI in 2016, URBAN-X partners with startups to build bold technology solutions for a sustainable planet. Breaking from traditional startup program molds, URBAN-X provides Pre-Seed and Seed-Stage entrepreneurs with individualized and tailored support that accelerates growth and builds successful businesses for the next generation of climate- and city-focused innovators. Core to its platform, URBAN-X offers world-class engineering and design resources, industry-leading investment capital from our venture partner JVP, a global network of investors, policymakers, corporate strategies and end-customers, and premier educational content for a global network of founders. Ukrainian servicemen carry bags containing bodies of dead Russian soldiers, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in the village of Blahodatne in Donetsk Region, Ukraine, on September 8, 2023. Six Ukrainian deputy defense ministers were fired Monday following the dismissal two weeks ago of Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov in a corruption scandal, officials said, as heavy fighting against Russian forces continued in the east. Russia claimed to have struck key Ukrainian facilities in air attacks overnight, hitting stores of Storm Shadow missiles and depleted uranium ammunition, along with electronic intelligence centers and training facilities for Ukrainian military scouts. The deputy defense ministers fired included Hanna Maliar, Vitalii Deyneha and Denys Sharapov, as well as the state secretary of the Defense Ministry, Kostiantyn Vashchenko, according to the Telegram account of Taras Melnychuk, permanent representative of the Cabinet of Ministers. Melnychuk provided no explanation of the firings, but the government has been investigating accusations of corruption in the military related to purchasing equipment. Rustem Umerov, a Crimean Tatar lawmaker who took over as defense minister, did not immediately issue a statement. Reznikov was removed earlier this month after a scandal involving the defense ministrys procurement of military jackets at three times their cost. Reznikov denied the allegations but resigned. The reshuffling of the department came a day after Ukraines military said it captured the village of Klishchiivka from Russian troops after months of fierce battles. Fighting continued Monday as troops tried to hold the village south of the Russian-held city of Bakhmut in the eastern Donetsk region. Its recapture followed the retaking of the nearby village of Andriivka. The enemy is trying with all his might to regain lost positions, Maliar said in a briefing Monday before she was fired. Therefore, our fighters hold back the enemys attacks there and are entrenched at the achieved frontiers. Retaking Klishchiivka is considered tactically important, allowing Ukrainian forces to further extend their gains around Bakhmut. Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. Ukraine launched a counteroffensive in June that so far has been marked by small victories but no major breakthroughs. Despite being bolstered by NATO-standard weapons worth billions of dollars, Ukrainian military officials have said there are no quick solutions to puncture Russian defensive lines only slow, grinding battles that have led to heavy losses. In his efforts to draw more support, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is headed to the U.S. where he is expected at the White House and on Capitol Hill this week as he visits during the United Nations General Assembly. His visit to Washington comes as Congress debates President Joe Bidens request to provide as much as $24 billion in military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine. One supporter in Congress, U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly, a Democrat from Arizona, met with Ukraine officials and soldiers Monday in Kyiv to assess the militarys current needs and discuss ATACMS tactical ballistic missiles, which Biden is considering providing. No single capability is going to make the difference between winning and losing, said Kelly, who praised forces for progress, though he said he wished it would move faster. In other fighting, six civilians were killed and 16 injured over the past 24 hours as Russia claimed to have used long-range air-launched missiles and drones to strike U.K.-supplied missiles and depleted uranium ammunition that can be used to destroy tanks. The goal of the strike has been fulfilled, all the designated facilities have been struck, the ministry said without providing specifics. The claims appeared to contradict Ukraines assertion that it intercepted all 17 cruise missiles launched by Russia and 18 of 24 Shahed drones in the southern regions of Mykolaiv and Odesa early Monday. There was no way to verify the conflicting claims. Russians attacked residential areas in eight cities and villages in the Donetsk region, including Avdiivka and Kurdiumivka, killing one and wounding four, it said. Five artillery attacks in Kherson killed one person and wounded another. In the nearby town of Beryslav, Russians dropped explosives from a drone near the local bus station, injuring four people, the presidential office said. Oleh Kiper, regional governor of Odesa, said a recreational facility in the town of Vylkovo was damaged in the attack but no casualties were immediately reported. Vylkovo, often referred to as the Ukrainian Venice because of its numerous canals, is located in the Danube delta on the border with Romania. Romania has recently reported several findings of fragments from drones similar to those used by Russia in attacks on Ukraines ports on the other side of the Danube. Neighboring Bulgaria on Monday said a specialist navy team carried out a controlled explosion of a mortar shell found attached to a drone in the Black Sea coastal area of Tyulenovo. Bulgarias Defense Minister Todor Tagarev said it wasnt clear when or how the drone ended up there, but said it most likely was carried by the sea to the coastal town situated about 30 kilometers (18.5 miles) south of the Romanian border. I have not been informed that our air defense system has detected such an object, but they are difficult to locate, Tagarev said. Such incidents happen weekly, the Bulgarian army has teams to locate and destroy unexploded ordnance. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition The war in Ukraine, the fight against climate change and support for the countries of the so-called Global South will feature this week at the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The great annual meeting of nations will be characterized both by who is present Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy will intervene in person at the first session on Tuesday, to garner support against the Russian invasion and who is absent: China is sending a delegation, and the leaders of three other permanent members of the Security Council will not be attending either: Russia, the United Kingdom and France. This means that the only leader of a permanent member of the Security Council who will attend the Assembly will be the president of the United States, Joe Biden. According to his National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, Biden is eager to use this trip to advance U.S. interests and values on a range of issues from mobilizing financial resources for the Global South for development and infrastructure needs, to galvanizing cooperation to tackle the climate crisis, to strengthening global support for Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity as it defends itself against Russias brutal invasion. Behind the scenes, this weekend Sullivan himself met in Malta with the Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, to discuss the war in Ukraine and the bilateral relationship, among other issues. In his annual address to the General Assembly, Biden will lay out for the world the steps that he and his administration have taken to advance a vision of American leadership that is built on the premise of working with others to solve the worlds most pressing problems, Sullivan added. After his speech, the U.S. president will extend his stay in New York for meetings with the president of Brazil, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, and the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu. With the former he will participate in a meeting with labor leaders from Brazil and the United States; with the second, with whom he has maintained a thorny relationship throughout his term in office, regarding the negotiations for a diplomatic agreement between Saudi Arabia and Israel, among other matters. The most anticipated address, however, will be Zelenskiys, also scheduled for that first session. It will be the first by the Ukrainian head of state in person at U.N. headquarters since the war began in February 2022 (last year he addressed the General Assembly by videoconference), and it comes at a time when Ukrainian military forces are trying to accelerate the pace of their counteroffensive to recover territory occupied by Russia. The counteroffensive has advanced more slowly than expected and, after 19 months of fighting, public interest in countries like the United States is declining. Especially among Republican sympathizers, resistance is growing to keep up military and economic aid that is around $75 billion, according to the German think tank Kiel Institute for the World Economy. The Ukrainian president also hopes that countries that have until now been lukewarm about the conflict will condemn the Russian invasion more emphatically. Zelenskiy plans to meet with leaders in bilateral meetings, including Netanyahu, and participate in a U.N. Security Council meeting specifically dedicated to the war. In it, he could come face to face with the representative of his enemy, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. The Ukrainian leaders tour of the United States will continue on Thursday in Washington, where he will meet with Biden at the White House it will be his second conversation at the presidential residence in nine months and he will also go to the Capitol for meetings with legislators to try to shore up support for his government at a time when a new U.S. package of military and humanitarian assistance is pending approval. This aid is included in a federal spending law that must be approved before September 30th. I think [Zelenskiy] is looking forward to the opportunity not just to see President Biden here at the White House, but also to see congressional leaders from both parties to make the case that the United States has been a great friend and partner to Ukraine throughout this entire brutal war and that United States should continue to do that, Sullivan declared. During the U.N.s big annual forum, which brings together 193 member countries, and just 10 days after the G-20 summit in New Delhi that brought together the worlds main economies, world leaders will also dedicate their attention to issues of concern to the Global South, in a sign of the growing desire by rich countries to drum up support for Ukraine and turn Russia into a diplomatic pariah. Various high-level meetings will focus on climate change, financing for development and water. After a complicated negotiation, the leaders plan to adopt a political declaration on the Sustainable Development Goals, which seeks to relaunch the 17 goals adopted in 2015 against poverty and inequality that, due to causes such as the coronavirus pandemic, the Ukrainian conflict, the rise of authoritarianism and a lack of interest from governments have either stagnated or regressed, as in the case of food security. By 2030, the date on which the goals were to be achieved, it is estimated that 500 million people will still live in extreme poverty, and 100 million children will be out of school. Among those who do attend classes, 300 million will leave school without knowing how to read or write. Pressure is increasing, especially from countries in the Global South with significant expectations for greater support on issues related to development and climate change financing, said Noam Unger, director of the Sustainable Development Initiative at the CSIS think tank in Washington. Countries will also address issues such as the reform of multilateral institutions and the U.N. itself, in a context in which the rivalry between the United States, the great world power, and China, the emerging great power, are competing in what seems to be the path to a new global bipolarity. Significantly, Chinese President Xi Jinping has avoided attending not only the meeting in New York, but also the G-20 meeting in New Delhi. His presence at another international forum, the APEC summit of Pacific countries in San Francisco in November, is in doubt. On the other hand, he has attended other summits supported by Beijing, including the BRICS summit in South Africa in August. For its part, the United States is cultivating new regional partnerships, especially in the Asia Pacific region. There has always been a search for alternatives when it comes to international forums. There has always been a feeling that when you cant get what you want from the U.N. you go somewhere else, said Marti Flacks, director of the CSIS Human Rights Initiative. What is different now is that those alternative groupings that are developing are stronger, more dynamic, and there are more that are led by competitors of the United States, particularly China. The absence of its great rivals on the world stage, Beijing and Moscow, opens up an opportunity for the United States on this occasion to present itself as a defender of the U.N. and everything it represents. According to Sullivan, in Bidens participation in the General Assembly the president reaffirm and advocate for the principles at the core of our international order, including the U.N. Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. And he will underscore the need for the U.N. and all multilateral institutions to be more representative, democratic, and effective. First its asphalt and then dirt roads. Were in the weeds. From the top of the Canaan neighborhood you have one of the best panoramic views of Tegucigalpa. The tallest buildings are far away, but they are few; closer are the tin roofs, the lush vegetation, a royal poinciana tree, which litters the ground with its large orange flowers. Even here, attached to a post in one of the most challenging neighborhoods of the Honduran capital, there are information posters about the Wolbachia method. This new pilot project to control dengue fever is being conducted by Doctors Without Borders and EL PAIS has accompanied the organization in the release of thousands of mosquitoes in a key test to combat an epidemic that is breaking records in the region. Dengue is bleeding the Americas dry. So far in 2023, the highest number of infections in the last five decades has already been recorded on the continent: more than 3.35 million. And there have been 1,567 deaths, according to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). More cases than ever have been recorded in Mexico, Bolivia, Peru and Brazil. In Argentina, patients have multiplied by 160 compared to all of 2022, in what is already the most lethal outbreak in the countrys history. Behind this health emergency is the Aedes aegypti, a mosquito that is extremely skilled at adapting to humans. The mosquito lives in stagnant water, but it prefers it clean: it lays its eggs in pots, containers, or garbage bags that form little basins when it rains, and it also breeds in wells. It is more attracted to dark colors and it is the female that bites. It has recognizable black-and-white legs and breeds outside, but always returns to the house. The little fly with the innocuous sounding name is responsible for an estimated 440,000 deaths per year, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). With climate change and rising temperatures, the insect is adapting faster and better and is appearing in new places. Volunteers capture mosquitoes in sector 4 of the Canaan neighborhood. Monica Gonzalez Islas Aedes transmits the so-called arboviruses, dengue, Zika and chikungunya, for which there is still no effective vaccine. Therefore, given the uncontrolled spread of the disease, the focus of health campaigns has been on avoiding bites from the mosquitoes that transmit the disease. This is where the release of these insects with Wolbachia comes in. Honduras is going to be the first country in Central America and the second on the continent (after Colombia) where the method is used. Although it is not a silver bullet, and is more useful combined with larvicides and household insecticides, it has opened a new front of hope. The hatchery There are hundreds of them and they get very angry when the light is shone on them. They have been locked in a boat with water, powdered liver (typical fish food) and activated charcoal for 10 days. They have grown from tiny eggs and pupae to these giant adult mosquitoes. Their caregivers from Doctors Without Borders, Jocelyn, Fer, and Alejandra, have been monitoring their growth since they arrived in refrigerators, sent by their mother colony: the biofactory at the World Mosquito Program (WMP) in Medellin, Colombia. In the insectarium that the medical organization has built in Tegucigalpa it smells like an aquarium and it is 29 degrees, which is what suits them best. The workers have put cotton candy on the top of the boats where they are trapped so that they can feed, but the females want blood, they need it to reproduce. So the women sometimes put their arm in the container to receive dozens of small bites. All for the success of the ambitious project that Doctors Without Borders has with the National University of Honduras, the Ministry of Health and the WMP against one of the most resistant endemic diseases in the region. Volunteers prepare canisters full of mosquitoes for distribution around the capital. Monica Gonzalez Islas Wolbachia is a bacteria that occurs naturally in around 60% of insects, from dragonflies to bees and butterflies. But not this mosquito. For more than 15 years, the WMP has been extracting Wolbachia from fruit flies and injecting it into the eggs of the Aedes aegypti. The bacteria prevents the spread of dengue, the mosquito may host the disease, but it does not transmit it. The first modified mosquitoes were released in northern Australia more than 10 years ago and the area was soon declared dengue free. It has also worked in Indonesia, where the incidence decreased by 77%. At Doctors Without Borders they call them safe mosquitoes: there are bites but there is no fever, muscle pain, or hospital. The next step in the plan is for mosquitoes with Wolbachia to reproduce with local populations. There are two options, explains the logistics manager of Doctors Without Borders, Stavros Dimopoulos: if the female has Wolbachia and the male does not, the next generation will also inherit the bacteria and will not be able to transmit dengue, if the male has Wolbachia and the not the female, the eggs will not hatch or will be too weak to become adult mosquitoes. The population is not suppressed, so as not to generate an imbalance in the ecosystem, but rather it is replaced. In sites with a high breeding density, the proportion of mosquitoes with Wolbachia can reach up to 98%. But it takes a while: probably about three years to reach that percentage, but it is capable of being maintained for a very long time, explains Dimopoulos. Mathematical studies speak of between 60 and 80 years with mosquitoes without dengue. Aedes aegypti mosquito larvae. Monica Gonzalez Islas Mosquito delivery Its the first day and Hector Espinosa is excited. He is 38 years old and goes everywhere on his motorcycle. In the past, his work involved running errands around Tegucigalpa and carrying tourists or packages. This Tuesday in August, as the sun rise at five in the morning, the Honduran puts on his shin guards and secures his backpack full of mosquito canisters. Each container has between 150 and 200 Aedes. Previously he had worked for Hugo and Pedidos Ya, commonly used applications for ordering takeaway food in Honduras: This is like a delivery of mosquitoes, he jokes, but it will benefit my country. A supervisor and 10 motorcyclists are going to do 250 routes for six months to free the mosquitoes with Wolbachia. In total, they are going to release more than eight million, that is 40,000 new mosquitoes every day. The distribution is carried out in El Manchen, an area north of Tegucigalpa, which suffered one of the worst dengue outbreaks last year and which usually registers almost half of the cases in the entire capital. It covers 39 neighborhoods, ranging from the boundary with the imposing United States embassy, to the high neighborhoods controlled by the gangs. On the same day, the delivery drivers meet former Honduran president Carlos Flores, who is walking his Yorkshire terrier in the wealthy Lara neighborhood, and they leave early for La Fraternidad, one of the more dangerous areas guarded by the police, before the guys wake up and make their work difficult. About 90,000 people live in El Manchen. If all goes well, by 2025 dengue cases in this area should have dropped between 85% and 95%; It should also affect the Aedes population of the entire Central District, where Doctors Without Borders calculations point to a 30% or 40% reduction in cases. A revolution for an area where dengue has become an unwelcome companion. Isaac Martinez releases mosquitoes carrying the Wolbachia bacteria. Monica Gonzalez Islas All the residents of these housing projects that America Futura has asked know of a case of dengue in their immediate environment, they themselves or their families have suffered from it. The mother of a gang member was admitted to the hospital a couple of weeks ago, she was saved and now she is watering her flowers again; several members of the family of Wendy Espinal, a neighbor from Canaan, fell ill at the same time from the bites a few days ago, and the girlfriend of Isaac Martinez, one of the Doctors Without Borders delivery drivers, cannot get out of bed because of the disease. Meanwhile, he navigates the streets of Manchen on his Suzuki carrying modified mosquitoes on his back: I think of it as work, but as help for my community. And if it turns out well for the country, it would be something we have fought against all our lives. But they are crazy, how are they going to release more mosquitoes? Sandra Espinals breathing is agitated as she winds her way up the hill in sector four of the Canaan neighborhood. At 45 years old and with two long black braids, Sandra is the key piece of the second part of the plan that humanitarian organizations, the government, and the university have designed to combat dengue. Without it the chain falls apart. In Tegucigalpa, as in most Latin American capitals, there are many areas that cars cannot reach. Cleared land, where the path has been made with machete: nothing with wheels can drive through there. Thus, in addition to the motorcycle distribution of mosquitoes, Doctors Without Borders has come up with what they call community liberation. Until January they will be placing boats in the houses of the residents of Manchen so that they themselves can raise and release the mosquitoes with Wolbachia. This is easier said than done. It takes six months work in the background. A woman and a girl walk through the Canaan neighborhood. Monica Gonzalez Islas We went house to house asking and explaining, says Espinal, who is a leader of La Estanzuela community. She has the trust of her neighbors and is able to gain access to an area completely controlled by the gangs. Alicia Salazars first response to the project illustrates the mood: Oh, no, but these guys are crazy, how are they going to release more mosquitoes so they wont come [and bite us]? Sandra says that she was also shocked at first: People get scared and think that they are going to have a large cloud of mosquitoes, and they wont even be able to see. But we were already training and understanding the method. To support the project, Doctors Without Borders conducted a survey among the population before it started the releases: it received 93% approval. Carmen Mendoza has not even gone out to the grocery store for a soda this morning. She is waiting for the doctors and Lilian Carbajal, the organizations health promoter, who was telling her about Wolbachia. Carmen says that she was not afraid of the releases, on the contrary: I was happy, because its like a swarm, we cant even sleep at night because of the mosquitoes. Her 15-year-old son was admitted to the hospital for two weeks with dengue fever. He survived, but the fear has not gone away. Her well is covered, because she knows that it is a breeding site for Aedes. In these neighborhoods, water only arrives for two hours on Mondays and Thursdays. For the rest of the week it must be stored, in wells, in buckets, or in containers and used for washing and bathing. That is one of the reasons why cases are multiplying throughout the Manchen area. Poverty, the high concentration of people, proximity to the mountains, and the normalization of symptoms are some of the others. Sandra Espinals granddaughter had hemorrhagic dengue. It took them a while to take her to the hospital because they thought it was just a fever. The doctors scolded us, they said how is it possible that we waited for it to reach that stage, that the girl could die of dengue. She was six years old. Sometimes we didnt take the risk into account. Because we understood it was something that we lived with every day in our communities and we did not try to combat it. Until now. Sandra Espinal with a jar full of 'Aedes aegypti'. Monica Gonzalez Islas Six health emergencies in a decade Before the releases, technicians from the National University of Honduras (UNAH) calculated that in the Manchen area, six out of every 10 mosquitoes were Aedes. Now, the same motorcyclists who release Wolbachia are in charge of making new captures so that the Microbiology Institute at the university can monitor how the bacteria is growing among the populations. For that, researcher Dennis Escobar explains, you have to do a PCR test on the mosquito. When they arrive at the laboratory, the mosquitoes are liquefied and, using reagents, the DNA is separated and analyzed to check if it has Wolbachia. They will spend 18 months taking samples. This monitoring is essential to verify the effectiveness of the project. Its not about generating information that looks good on paper, but rather, it is very useful for decision-making by the authorities, thinking about being able to scale it up in the future and bring this methodology to other sites, says Escobar, who points out that until now the governments operational capacity against the disease has been limited. The objective, says the researcher, is that it can be part of the Ministry of Healths package of options to fight dengue. The coordinator of the Doctors Without Borders project, Edgard Boquin, explains that the organization chose Honduras from the entire region, because, in addition to the vulnerability of its medical infrastructure and its exposure to natural disasters, his organisation has attended six health emergencies due to dengue since 2010, the most recent one being just last year. One of the outbreaks in 2019 left more than 100,000 cases and 180 deaths, in addition to overstretched hospitals. It was the time when we said that we had to do something different and sustainable, the coordinator explains. Initiatives like these are long they are not useful for controlling an outbreak because the first results will be seen in a few months and they are expensive. The organization has budgeted $1 million for the entire project (WMPs modified mosquitoes alone cost $500,000). But it also takes the burden off health systems that are overwhelmed with each emergency. The organization and experts are convinced they can replicate what they have just started, not only in other areas of Honduras, but in other Latin American countries that are also engaged in the battle against dengue. The sky opens and the Supaya basilica watches over the traffic of Tegucigalpa. Among the cars, 10 motorcyclists pass by carrying red backpacks and the best weapon yet in the fight against the regions mosquitoes. The modified WMP mosquitoes. Monica Gonzalez Islas Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition The Trans-Tasman touring festival will land at Western Springs in Tamaki Makaurau - Auckland on Tuesday February 6th 2024, dripping with some of the most exciting artists from around the world and from home; including a blockbuster list of international headliners at the top of their game and ground-breaking talent who are fast becoming signifiers of the best new music from around the world. Lets Wake Up To Wokeism By AMITA APTE : Wokeism is very recently coined terminology. The term Wokism has become more popular as social media platforms have grown in popularity. Even the so-called woke culture has also grown parallel to the development of Internet facilities around the world. What, then, is Woke? The past tense of the verb to wake up is woke. Positively speaking, the person who is awake and not sleeping is woke. It's as simple as that. On social media, it refers to someone who is aware of certain social concerns, refuses to give in to established conventions, thinks outside the box, breaks the typical, standard patterns, and frees themselves as well as those who are oppressed by the society. What a rosy picture of woke culture! isn't it? By now, society in general is quite familiar with concepts like Left, Marxism, Naxalism, liberals etc. Now, these people have moved on and are using more sophisticated yet very dangerous patterns. We are aware that Nationalist organisations, agencies, governments etc. are improving on their working styles, making appropriate changes in their organisational structures etc. Likewise, the left or as far as India concerns treasonous forces are also changing their stance. Now we will try to segregate the people who refuse to follow standard norms of Indian society on social, political, religious grounds. We are only considering Indian scenarios for now. so that we understand the basic idea of the concept of Wokism. Let's make three important groups of these organisations according to their working style and the type of social strata they engage as their weapon. The Neo-Left: They are players on the political grounds. eg. Shaheen Bagh, Farm laws protests, Anti-CAA protests etc. Cultural Marxism: Cultural warfare. Hindu bashing every way possible is a key element in their activism. They are seen everywhere from trolling Hindu festivals, Jallikattu, Sabarimala racus to support Burqa and Church propaganda. Wokism: Its psychological warfare. Famous anti-woke activist James Lindsay in his book Marxification of Education (Theft of Education) very rightly talks about radicalised youth power. He quotes, Their energies are not being used but been radically misused. Wokism basically started In the year 1925 in Germany. In 1933, influenced activists got an opportunity to take it to the Frankfurt school of Columbia USA. They started promoting the idea of the great refusal of basic identities. According to them, any identity is given to a person. So they refuse to accept the identity a person receives by birth. They expect to replace it with a persons choice of identity. For example, according to one of the famous Wokes, Judith Butler, Gender is a social construct, not biological. That means someone is not born as male or female. people around that person make her or him believe so. No matter how absurd we think it is, they wholeheartedly believe such things to be right and true. Intersectionality of different feminisms and LGBTQ+ are the best examples of this. Famous woke writer Stuart Hall says it aptly, Our aim is not to study cultures. Period. Our aim is to make one. Period.Young people are rebellions in nature. They are curious.Younger generations always want to experiment on different things of the world. They wish to experience more and more different things. They want to use their energies to make their own mark, create their own identity in the world. attention seeking can also be one of the important traits of younger age. All such things are used to attract young students to this ideology. Cancel Culture: It is the culture they believe in. Cancel culture means shunning out the people who have some different opinion than yours. They outrightly reject the people having some other viewpoint. Eg. students refuse to sit in the class of the college professors they have decided to cancel. Remember, shame and victimhood are the weapons of Wokeism. Now the question arises why do they do it all? The first and foremost obvious answer that comes to mind is money, power, lifestyle, career. There are organisations like Bill Gates Foundation, Open Society etc that are pumping money in different levels in many ways. Some of them actually believe in what they are doing, some of them dream to live a life of a Woke, some are dragged by their peers, some have lost the strength to get out of that vicious circle which looked very lucrative initially. There must be many other reasons also. Such radicalised Woke are great resources. They operate on diagnostic mechanisms. That means they want some project to be given so that they can show their prowess. They want their presence to be felt. Using this trait, nowadays, efforts are being made in order to identify such Woke from different institutions and align them to some positive, social cause. This has proved to be helping them to look at the world from a different perspective and revise their own thinking.Iknow some professors who are working on these lines. If you come across any such Woke, it's an opportunity for you to convertawoke into an activist that works for societys interest, not against it. Isn't it? (The author is a Blogger and enthusiast of Northeastern region, international affairs) Miraculous Homeostasis Of Body & Mind By DR BHUSHAN KUMAR UPADHYAYA : Homeostasis is a state of dynamic equilibrium where the body and the mind work in perfect balance. This is the state when we feel at ease with ourselves without excitement, elation or depression. This ecosystem of human psychology ensures the most creative moments for taking critical and crucial decisions. In elated and depressive moods, what we decide is coloured and not wise. Homeostasis is the state of perfect health. The evolutionary scientists define homeostasis as any self-regulating process. As a result of this self-regulation, stability is attained by any organism while adapting to new and changing environmental conditions. It is the process of homeostasis that ensures the survival of any organism. In the field of ecology also the experts talk of homeostasis. This homeostasis refers to the equilibrium among different organisms of the physical ecosystem. Some of the environmentalists have extended the concept of homeostasis by covering non living things also. In mechanical devices the thermocontrol system is the best example of homeostasis. When heat rises in the human body, perspiration starts to lose heat and cools it down. On the contrary when body temperature comes down, there is shivering in the body to generate heat and maintain the required level of temperature. In Ayurveda the definition of Swasthya is fantastically similar to the concept of homeostasis. Swasthya is defined as Samadoshah Samagnishcha Samadhatumalakriyah . Prasannatmendriyamanah Swasthya mityabhidhiyate. Healthy is one whose fluid systems, digestive fire, tissues, excretory function, etc are in perfect balance and whose body, mind and consciousness are cheerful. This is the best definition of homeostasis. Actually Swasthya is translated into English as health. But health is a condition after the healing of some disease. So the better word for Swasthya is homeostasis. Swasthya is the state where we are established in our own original nature of bliss and equilibrium. And this is homeostasis. In the Geeta Lord Krishna defines Yoga as Samatva meaning equilibrium. In other words we can say that Yoga is the science which establishes us in our equilibrium. When this yogic equilibrium is established, we are in a state of bliss and tranquillity. Yoga prescribes scientific techniques to achieve this state of equilibrium or homeostasis of body, mind and consciousness. The eight limbs of RajaYoga are the stepping stones to this state of equilibrium. Yama and Niyama prepare the background to go on the yogic path. Asana synthesises our bodily energy. Pranayama controls our mind through breathing. Pratyahara withdraws us from the external clutter and din. Dharana enhances our concentration. Dhyana makes concentration more deep and penetrative. Samadhi is the absorption of the mind with bliss and tranquillity. After prolonged, continuous and dedicated practice of Yoga, the perfect state is achieved which is described as the Samya Awastha by Lord Krishna. It is the psychophysiological state of the human ecosystem when emotions do not rub us, mood swings have no impact on our mind and we are in perfect body-mind connect. In many Yoga books it is described that at the time of thisYogic state a natural sweetness is produced in our mouth. In scientific terms we can say that when our entire psychosomatic system works perfectly, there is secretion of pleasure hormones in the body producing sweetness on the tongue. DR BHUSHAN KUMAR UPADHYAYA (The writer is DG Police & CG, Homeguards, Maharashtra) BJP holds preparatory meet for upcoming Jan Ashirwad Yatra, Karyakarta Mahakumbh Staff Reporter The city unit of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has orgnaised an important meeting to discuss preparations for the Jan Ashirwad Yatra, entering into the city on September 22 and the Karyakarta Mahakumbh to be organised in the State capital, on September 25. Addressing the meeting, City President Prabhat Sahu said the Jan Ashirwad Yatra will enter into Sanskardhani on Friday, where Chief Minister, Shivraj Singh Chouhan will visit all four Assembly constituencies of Jabalpur to seek blessings from the public. Sahu stated that during Jan Ashirwad Yatra, the Chief Minister will be present to receive blessings of public and it is the responsibility of every party worker to ensure its success. Likewise, on September 25, thousands of party workers from Jabalpur will join the Karyakarta Mahakumbh in Bhopal under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is a significant responsibility for all of us as the entire States workers will gather in Mahakumbh to hear PM Modi, he added. City President Sahu said in the Karyakarta Mahakumbh, each Mandal has the responsibility to actively participate and ensure that the message reaches people at the booth-level, so that every worker can work with enthusiasm and vigor in the ensuing Assembly elections. Senior leaders attended the meeting were MLA Ashok Rohani, Sadanand Godbole, Swati Godbole, Anchal Sonkar, Sharad Jain, Abhilash Pandey, Vivek Agrawal, Anil Verma, all district office bearers, Mandal heads and members of various cells and departments of BJP. Cheetah Project on right path to becoming successful: Govt report NEW DELHI, FOUR of the six criteria established for assessing the short-term success of Indias cheetah reintroduction programme have already been met, a Government report said on Sunday. Released upon the completion of one year of the programme, the report highlighted that the initial progress has largely followed a favourable trajectory well within the envisioned limitations. The project is on the right path to becoming a successful large carnivore conservation translocation and population establishment endeavour, it stated. It cannot be overemphasised that the challenges are formidable. However, with concerted efforts by officials and managers from India, Namibia, and South Africa, along with the support from the highest offices in all three countries, the project is on its assured path to recovery, the report read. The Cheetah Action Plan, published last year, lists six short-term success criteria, including 50 per cent survival of the introduced cheetahs for the first year, establishment of home ranges in Kuno National Park, successful cheetah reproduction in the wild, survival of wild-born cheetah cubs past one year, successful F1 generation breeding, and cheetah-based revenues contributing to community livelihoods. F1 stands for the first generation of offspring. The report noted that the project has achieved four of these criteria -- 50 per cent survival of the introduced cheetahs, establishment of home ranges, birth of cubs in Kuno National Park, and direct revenue contributions to local communities through the engagement of cheetah trackers and indirect appreciation of land value in surrounding areas. Around the world, climate litigation is on the rise. Activists are using the courts to try to get governments to be more ambitious in the fight against climate change, to name and shame the most polluting companies, or to stop fossil fuel projects that further add to the climate crisis. The total number of cases worldwide has increased from 884 in 2017 to 2,180 in 2022, according to the latest report on climate litigation put together by the United Nations Environment Programme. The United States heads the list of nations with the most cases on the books, but over the years, these lawsuits have spread to other countries. And they have been brought before international courts such as the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), where there are several open cases, including the one brought by six young people from Portugal who are suing 32 European countries. Ana Barreira is a lawyer and the founding director of the International Institute of Law and Environment (IIDMA), an organization created in 1997 that uses the law to promote environmental protection. Question. What types of climate litigation already exist? Answer. There are many categories. The best known, and those that attract the most media attention, are those that are directed against states and are brought by individuals demanding more ambitious action on the climate from their governments. But there is also litigation against companies. In Europe, some of these cases have already been brought before the courts, but where they have occurred the most is in the United States. For example, a case filed against the construction of a coal-fired thermal power plant or a combined cycle power plant can also be considered climate litigation because they emit greenhouse gases. In Spain we no longer find cases concerning coal-fired plants, because the industry is dying out, but in many other countries in the world they continue to be built. Others may be lawsuits that have to do with not applying the environmental impact assessment on a project that may generate more emissions, as happened in the extension of one of the runways at Heathrow airport. In other words, there are multiple kinds of cases and there are multiple kinds of arguments that can be made. Q. Does environmental and climate activism have a long history in the courts? A. The first recorded climate litigation took place in the 1990s and was a case in Australia against the construction of a coal-fired power plant. But then more and more cases have continued to be brought as time has gone by and as legislation to combat climate change has been enacted, especially after the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change was signed in 1992. If we look at the statistics, the country that has the most climate litigation is in the United States. This is related, on the one hand, to the fact that very little has actually been done in the United States to combat climate change. And on the other hand, it is because it has a very different judicial system where precedents, which are the primary source of law, must be established. This is in comparison to civil law systems, such as those of many countries in the European Union and Latin America, where the written law is the primary source. Q. Do you think litigation has been a useful tool so far? A. I believe that all tools to address climate change are useful. Until now there have been cases that have served to move the struggle forward, although others have not been useful. There are cases that have set a precedent or that have attracted a lot of attention, such as the famous Urgenda case in the Netherlands, which was based on arguments more or less similar to those of the Juliana case in the U.S. But there have also been very interesting earlier lawsuits that the media did not pay attention to. Now the argument of protecting future generations is widely used, but in 1994 there was a groundbreaking case in the Philippines that used this reasoning against plans that involved deforestation. In that case, the concept that the Brundtland commission defended meeting the needs of the present without compromising the needs of future generations was used for the first time. It was a case brought by a number of children in the Philippines. Perhaps if as much attention had been paid to that case as there was to the Urgenda case, it would have had a much higher social impact and in more countries. Q. Do you think that judges are now more sensitive to climate cases that defend the rights of future generations? A. Talking about judges in general is very complicated, because it depends on the jurisdictions, judicial traditions, and on the training the judiciary receives in each country. There are countries in which there are courts that specialize in environmental issues. But judges are also people, and there is a greater awareness in society today than 10 or 20 years ago. Now, when analyzing a case, it is viewed differently. This has had an influence, because, although the law must be applied, there is a certain level of subjectivity. That is why I believe that there is greater receptivity, and this has been transferred to the judges decisions. Q. And have you noticed this change at your organization? A. In our work in Spain we have noticed improvements, but they have been very limited and only in certain areas. It also depends on the case you bring before the courts, because there are rules that are very simple to understand but there are also others that are very technically complex, and at times I dont think the judges understand the arguments very well. There are exceptions, obviously, but the problem is that their training is not good enough. Judges have not been trained in these matters. Just as there is a prosecutors office that specializes in environmental cases and courts that deal with other, specific matters, we believe that special chambers and judges should be created for environmental cases, just as there are different courts for matters of gender or minors. Q. On September 27, the European Court of Human Rights will hold a hearing in the case of the six Portuguese youths who have accused 32 countries of inaction on climate change. How significant is it that the case has reached the court? A. The lawsuit was filed in 2020, before the European Union and many other states reviewed their climate commitments, and so we are in a very different situation now. I dont know whats going to happen, but I think its important. The very fact that it has reached the court has received media coverage, and that has raised its profile. This is part of what is called strategic litigation which is widely used in the Anglo-Saxon system. Sometimes, people file a lawsuit knowing in advance that they are not going to win, but they do it to draw attention to an issue that needs to be urgently addressed. Q. Is the litigation more important than the judgement, then? A. I dont have a crystal ball, so I dont know what the court will decide. But if the court does not rule in favor of the litigants, the whole process will drive changes in climate legislation anyway. Q. It is striking that this case has reached the ECHR when the right to the environment is not included in the Convention on Human Rights. A. The European Convention on Human Rights was signed in the 1950s, when society was not the same as it is now. The environment was not something that people were concerned about. Rather, this has developed over time. The convention includes what are called first and second generation human rights, but third generation rights, which are quite loose in their definition, are not included. As a consequence of gradual environmental degradation and its impact on other rights, recognition of the right to a healthy environment began to be introduced into many national constitutions from the 1970s onward. It is even included in other regional treaties for the protection of human rights. A reform has not been carried out in Europe yet, but I believe that it will certainly happen, especially as a consequence of the UN General Assemblys recognition of the right to a healthy environment. Q. In Spain, the first climate litigation against the state was rejected by the Supreme Court. Do you think there could be a successful lawsuit that obliges the country to present more ambitious plans to cut emissions? A. I dont think its possible right now. Furthermore, the European Union, which largely sets climate policy for Spain, is going to increase its commitments. I have seen all the [climate] developments in Europe and I think that the EU is very ambitious. It has always been a leader in the fight against climate change. In fact, in the negotiations of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, it was the EU that tabled setting emissions reduction targets, but no other countries wanted to. Many things are being done in Europe, such as changes in legislation, [increased use of] renewables, construction, and so on. We pay a lot of attention to the macro, but not to the micro and all the transformations that are being generated. I have spent my entire professional life focused on these issues, and I consider that for 20 years hardly anything happened, everything was very slow, but since the signing of the Paris Agreement in 2015, all the changes that have been made are incredible. Obviously, much more progress has to be made, I dont deny it. Q. Going down to the micro: in Spain, could there be a lawsuit against a mayor for removing bike lanes, as is happening after the municipal elections in some town councils? A. I think it could happen because it means [the town is] adopting measures to hinder sustainable mobility, which is a very important element to tackle climate change, because cities contribute a lot to global warming through their emissions. Q. Even the bike lanes are politicized, are they not? A. Ill give you an example. Bike lanes are used in a lot of the countries around us, as well as in China and many other places. In addition to the environmental advantages, there are health benefits for a population that gets around by bike. And that can even have a positive impact on health spending, due to the lower incidence of certain diseases. A lot of the time we do not see the issues systemically and we forget the interrelationships that exist. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Dharna continues for compensation, job to victims dependent Staff Reporter BHILAI, Former Cabinet Minister Prem Prakash Pandey is continuing his dharna demanding justice for Malkit Singh who was killed in Bhilai. Pandey along with the victims family members, Sikh Panchayat members, and party workers, continued their dharna at Khursipar Police station premises, demanding justice for the victims family. The protest gained further momentum as BJP leaders including Arun Sao, President of Chhattisgarh BJP, and Vijay Baghel, MP, Durg, joined in solidarity on Sunday. proper compensation. Pandey also announced their intention to escalate the agitation as Sikh Panchayat members have called for a Bhilai Bandh on Monday, with full support from Bhilai BJP. Former Cabinet Minister Prem Prakash Pandey raised serious allegations against the State Government, accusing them of indulging in appeasement politics and protecting some of the accused involved in the heinous offense. He expressed concern over certain elements raising pro-Pakistan slogans under what he perceived as government patronage. Pandey criticised the police for what he described as a lackluster investigation, highlighting that some of the brutal killing suspects remain at large. Tulsi Sahu, former President of the District Congress Committee, denounced the crime and assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure full justice in the matter. The police are also committed to putting in all efforts to ensure strict legal action against the culprits. Sahu criticised the BJP for allegedly politicising the matter and trying to give the incident a communal colour and making false allegations for political gain. The incident in question occurred on Friday evening when the victim, Malkit Singh (34), along with his friend Om Kumar, was at the ITI ground in Khursipar, Bhilai. They reportedly had a heated exchange with the accused Tarun Nishad, Shubham Lahre, Tasavvur Khan, and Faizal Qureshi over a trivial matter, leading to a severe assault on Malkit Singh. Despite being hospitalised and referred to a multispecialty hospital, Malkit Singh succumbed to his injuries, which were believed to be severe internal vital damage. The police have already apprehended five individuals, including a minor, allegedly involved in the brutal killing. The autopsy report for the case is pending. Meanwhile, Bharatiya Janata Party State President, MP Arun Sao said that killing of unarmed man depicts the utter lawlessness that prevails in the State. Expressing his condolences on this incident, Arun Sao said that 32-year-old youth Malkit Singh was murdered mercilessly and brutally. The facts that have come to light revealed that this incident took place when slogans like Hindustan Zindabad, and Pakistan Murdabad were raised. The victims family should get justice, action should be taken against the culprits. Sao demanded the strictest action against the culprits. Of all the culprits, eyewitnesses have told the police administration the names of eight people. Action should be taken against all of them. He said that this was not a normal and spontaneous incident. People said that after the murder of the young man, the culprits danced over his body. This incident shows the Talibani thinking and mentality of these criminals. There is a need to crush such thinking and mentality. Arun Sao said that the Bharatiya Janata Party is with the family of deceased youth in the fight for justice. We will provide all possible help to Malkit Singhs family to get justice. The government should give a compensation of Rs 50 lakh to the victims family. He also has small children, how will they be looked after? Therefore, a job should be given to a family member. The hearing in the case should be done in a fast-track court and the culprits should be given capital punishment. Prem Prakash Pandey expressed their determination to persist with the demonstration, emphasising that the State Government has yet to take adequate measures to provide a government job to the victims widow and ensure DTNBWED observes Foundation Day Business Reporter The Foundation Day of Dattopant Thengadi National Board for Workers Education and Development (DTNBWED) was celebrated as Workers Education Day on Saturday at Regional Directorate on Northa Ambazari Road in the city. The programme commended with the lighting of traditional lamp. Board Member, DTNBWED, Ajay Patki, was the chief guest of the function. Expressing his views, Patki stated that the Board is undergoing a change as per the present day requirements and requested all the stakeholder for their whole-hearted support in such an endeavour, be it trade unions, NGOs, workers or management. He further requested the stakeholders to come out with suggestions for further improvements, which will ultimately help in the upliftment of the workers. He also stated that presently eshram portal is data base of 30 crore workers and Government is coming out with various schemes will benefit the workers. Guest of honour and Director, DGMS, Nagpur Rupesh Srivastava, stated that sensitisation of workers is the present day need and how to overcome the new challenges being faced by the workers. Special guest, Dr Vikas Jamulkar, Assistant Professor, RTMNU, and also Member of Regional Advisory Committee, of Regional Directorate, DTNBWED, Nagpur highlighted the need for sensitizing the workers about their rights and privileges, details about Government welfare schemes and for this workers education play their important role. Regional Director, DTNBWED, Nagpur C Battacharjee elaborated the journey of the board and briefed about its activities. He also highlighted the importance of workers education in the present day scenario. Senior Education Officer D S Sahare proposed the vote of thanks. Home Not Only Wifes Burden By Adv. R. S. Agrawal IN THE judgement of a matrimonial matter contested between the appellant husband (35) and respondent wife (33)-names not disclosed by the Bombay High Court at Mumbai delivered on September 6, 2023, by the division bench consisting of Justice Nitin W Sambre and Sharmila U Deshmukh, has stated that in modern society, the burden of the household responsibilities have to be borne by both husband and wife equally. The HC has quite candidly stated that the primitive mindset expecting the woman of the house to solely shoulder the household responsibilities needs to undergo a positive change. The court has pointed out that on perusal of admissions which has come on record, the admitted position is that both the appellant and the respondent were employed and as such, expecting the respondent to do all the household work reflects a regressive mindset. The HC commented that the marital relationship also, cannot result in isolating the respondent-wife from her parents and she cannot be expected to severe all ties with her parents after her marriage. Being in contact with ones parents cannot by any stretch of imagination be construed as inflicting mental agony on the other party. In the courts view, putting restrictions on the respondent to curtail her contact with her parents, has in fact, subjected the respondent to mental cruelty apart from physical cruelty which has been established by the incident of February 28, 2011 and December 31, 2011. The appellant was seeking decree of divorce on the ground of cruelty and as such it will have to be seen whether the appellant has discharged the burden of proof by leading cogent and satisfactory evidence. If pleadings are perused, apart from deposing about the general conduct of the respondent, three incidents of cruelty have been pleaded in the petition for divorce. The first incident is of the year 2011, that upon the appellant refusing to attend the house warming ceremony at the respondent-wifes fathers house, the respondent assaulted him. The second incident is of December 30, 2012, that the respondent and her mother quarreled and expressed their happiness at the accident of his brother; and the third incident is of December 31, 2012, that the appellant was assaulted by the respondent and her mother at night and was thrown out of the house and the next day, the appellant was slapped by the respondents mother in the presence of security guard. According to the HC, it is settled that to constitute cruelty, the conduct of the other party should be of such a nature which will satisfy the court that it has become impossible for the wronged party to live with the other party without mental agony. Cruelty generally does not consist of isolated acts but series of acts spread over period of time. In this case, the marriage was performed in the year 2010 and matrimonial co-habitation lasted for about two and half years. In this span of 30 months, three incidents of alleged cruelty, apart from general conduct of the respondent have been set forth as constituting ground of cruelty. To this, the response of the respondent-wife has been that in fact the respondent has been subjected to mental and physical cruelty at the hands of the appellant. A specific incident has been pleaded that on February 28, 2011, upon a quarrel between the parties, the appellant had mercilessly assaulted the respondent which prompted the respondent to call her parents, who arrived on the next day. It is pleaded that on December 30, 2012, the appellant abused the respondents mother and on the same day, the appellant picked up a quarrel with the respondent and then when her mother had intervened, the appellant assaulted the respondent and her mother and due to brutal assault, the respondent and her mother was traumatised and screamed for help where the security guard entered into the flat and threatened to call the police. In view of the HC, as against the rival allegations of cruelty, the evidence on record will have to be scrutinised to ascertain as to whether the appellant has been able to establish his case and even if established whether then same is sufficient to entitle him to a decree of divorce on the ground of cruelty. The HC has also referred to Supreme Courts decision of the case Samar Ghosh v. Jaya Ghosh (2007) 4 SCC 511, in the paragraph 101, SC have provided some illustrations to what constitutes cruelty, stating that no uniform standard can ever be laid down for guidance. The respondent-wifes father has deposed that he was informed about the incident the same night and that he informed his son about the same. The arrival of the wifes brother the next day and leaving of the matrimonial house by the wife and her mother lends credence to the version of the respondent-wife. Her version is also supported by the admission of the appellant that on December 31, 2012, the wife had lodged the complaint against the husband. AS regards the general conduct deposed by the appellant that the respondent was in constant touch with her family, that she was not doing the household work and many times the appellant had, to leave for his work without food, the appellants father during the cross-examination admitted that there was a house help which was hired for doing the household work as well as for cooking the meals. He had further admitted that the appellant and the respondent were employed and as such did not have much time. It had been also admitted by him that on many occasions, the appellant used to leave house without taking his breakfast. He had further admitted that entire responsibility of the house was on the respondent. After consideration of the evidence the HCs finding is that the instances of cruelty have not been substantiated by the appellant by leading cogent and satisfactory evidence. This apart from the fact that in the matrimonial co-habitation of about two and half years, three isolated incidents cited, apart from the general conduct of the respondent. In the HCs opinion, cruelty generally refers to a series of acts occurring frequently, which results in causing such mental or physical agony to the wronged party that the Court would be left with no option but to dissolve the marriage, which is not so in this case. Though the parties have been living apart since about 10 years and there is irretrievable break down of marriage, the HC has stated that this Court in an appeal under the provisions of section 39 of the Special Marriage Act, 1954, cannot grant divorce on the ground that there is no possibility of reunion, unlike the Supreme Court, which can do so, under Article 142 under the Constitution of India. The High Court has dismissed the appeal. Rain fury in Malwa-Nimar region, CM monitors situation Senior Special Correspondent Monsoon activity has intensified in many parts of the State. Among them Malwa and adjacent areas are the worst hit. In view of incessant rains, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan held a virtual meeting with his officials at 1:30 on Saturday-Sunday intervening night and gave instructions to oncerning collectors to deal with the situation and complete rescue and relief operations. Chouhan said that if felt necessary, help of Army and Air Force will be taken for relief in the affected areas. The collectors concerned have assigned responsibility to disaster teams in the affected areas. A total of 610 personnel and 801 Home Guard personnel have been deployed for relief work in flood affected districts. Chouhan reviewed the situation caused by heavy rains in Khargone, Barwani, Dhar, Khandwa, Burhanpur, Alirajpur and Indore and spoke to officials of these districts. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday said the Army and Air Force will be called in if required for flood relief operations amid heavy rains in the state. He held a virtual meeting with his officials at 1:30am and gave instructions to deal with the situation. Chouhan reviewed the situation caused by heavy rains in Khargone, Barwani, Dhar, Khandwa, Burhanpur, Alirajpur and Indore and spoke to officials of these districts. The situation is under control but the people are on alert and the State Disaster Emergency Response Force (SDERF) and NDRF are working in these areas, while the flow in water bodies as well as rain has reduced. Water level has started receding in the affected areas. Our efforts are on to keep people safe. If required, the Army and Air Force will also be called in, CM Chouhan added. As the monsoon activity picking up over east and several parts of the Central India, the State has received extremly heavy rainfall in past 36 hours. India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday said south-central Madhya Pradesh witnessed a downpour, with Bhimpur village in Betul district receiving 445 mm of rain in the last 24 hours, beating the earlier record of 410 mm in Chaurai town of Chhindwara in August 2020. Those rescued include 21 villagers stranded on an island in Gambhir river after flooding in Kalaria village of Rau tehsil, he said. Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) said 21 people, comprising women, children, fishermen and farmers, were rescued by sending lifeboats. According to the official statement, more than 200 persons were rescued from low-lying areas amid heavy rain in Indore in the past 24 hours till the report is being filed. India Meteorological Department stated that till Saturday morning, 171 millimeters (6.73 inches) of rainfall was recorded in Indore city in 24 hours. Due to heavy rain, the administration has ordered suspension of classes from nursery to class XII on September 18. Schools will remain shut on Monday also as per district administration order. While the State capital received light to moderate rainfall on Saturday and Sunday. Raipur to host 4th meeting of G20 FWG from today Staff Reporter RAIPUR, A significant two-day meeting of the G20 Framework Working Group (FWG) is set to commence at the May Fair Lake Resort in Atal Nagar, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, under the Indian G20 Presidency. The event is scheduled for September 18 and 19, with proceedings commencing at 10 am on Monday. Chaired by Chandni Raina, Adviser, Ministry of Finance, Government of India, and Sam Beckett, Chief Economic Adviser, HM Treasury, UK, this meeting brings together over 65 delegates from G20 member countries, invitees, as well as international and regional organisations. The delegates have already arrived and received a warm Chhattisgarhi traditional welcome at Swami Vivekananda Airport Raipur. The primary objective of the FWG is to facilitate discussions on the current global economic outlook and provide policy guidance on critical macroeconomic matters. Notably, the 2023 Indian Presidency has successfully concluded the deliverables of this working group, which are referenced in the New Delhi Leaders Declaration. These deliverables include the G20 Report on Macroeconomic Impacts of Food and Energy Insecurity and the G20 Report on Macroeconomic Risks Stemming from Climate Change and Transition Pathways. The upcoming meeting will review the discussions in the FWG during 2023 and explore future areas of focus. In conjunction with the meeting, the Reserve Bank of India will host a series of Jan Bhagidari events, featuring panel discussions on digital banking and financial inclusion, financial literacy programs, a G20 awareness initiative, a painting contest, and a slogan-writing competition. A special Ratri Bhoj Par Samvad (Conversation over Dinner) will be hosted for the delegates at the hotel Resort on Monday evening. Furthermore, the delegates will have the opportunity to visit the Nandanvan Zoological Garden on September 19. A cultural event will enable them to savor the unique cuisine and cultural richness of Chhattisgarh. The city of Nava Raipur, Atal Nagar, has been meticulously prepared to host the fourth G20 FWG meeting. Beautification and maintenance works, including colorful footpaths, posters, banners, and illuminated electric poles, have enhanced the citys aesthetic appeal. G20 Vatika, a designated area, has been developed where delegates from G20 countries will plant saplings. Idols and posters showcasing the culture of Chhattisgarh and the enduring aspects of Indian culture adorn the streets of Nava Raipur. Stringent security measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of the G20 meeting. Its important to note that the G20 consists of 19 countries and the European Union. The member countries are Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Germany, France, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, the Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, the UK, and the US. India holds the G20 Presidency from December 1, 2022, to November 30, 2023. Terrorism in J&K at lowest level, says DGP SRINAGAR, TERRORISM in Jammu and Kashmir is at its lowest level and the Union Territory is slowly moving towards the policy of zero terrorism, Director General of Police Dilbag Singh said on Saturday. The Jammu and Kashmir Police chief also said security forces have neutralised 40 foreign terrorists and nine local ultras so far this year. We are moving inch by inch towards the policy of zero terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. Terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir is at its lowest level, he said during his address at the third Northern Regional Police Coordination Committee meeting, hosted by the Jammu and Kashmir Police here. This year, security teams in Jammu and Kashmir have been able to neutralise around 40 foreign terrorists and nine local militants, he said. Local involvement in terror activities has come down drastically. Optimum synergy among the forces has pushed the terrorists out of villages and cities to the mountains, Singh added. Security forces, Intelligence agencies and the civil administration are working together as a unique model to make Jammu and Kashmir terror free, he further said. There was a time when stone pelting on security forces was happening every Friday. That is now over. The Jammu and Kashmir security team has been able to ensure zero violation of human rights and there has not been a single civilian casualty in any law-and-order engagement over the last few years, he said. The enforcement of the rule law was the single guideline for the security team of Jammu and Kashmir, Singh said and added that action has been taken against people involved in anti-national activities as well as those instigating them. He also thanked the people of Jammu and Kashmir for cooperating with the forces that, Singh said, has been of immense help. The third Northern Regional Police Coordination Committee meeting was aimed at enhancing inter-state police coordination, besides effectively addressing various policing issues across the north Indian states/Union Territories. Senior officers representing police departments of northern States/Union Territories and officers of the Central Armed Police Forces/Central Police Organisations attended the high-level meeting. At the outset, a minutes silence was observed to pay homage to the martyrs of the Anantnag and the Rajouri operations. The police leadership discussed a wide range of topics related to terrorism, drugs menace, increasing trends in cybercrime and the use of drones for dropping drugs and contraband from across the border. Beginning on September 18, 2001 just one week after the September 11 terrorist attacks in the U.S. letters containing anthrax spores were mailed to several news media offices and government officials, resulting in the deaths of five people and 17 infections. Although the Bush administration quickly blamed al-Qaeda the organization behind 9/11 and Iraq for the attacks, the FBI declared American microbiologist Bruce Edwards Ivins as the sole perpetrator. However, a scientific report cast doubt on that conclusion, and some believe there may have been more people involved. What is anthrax? Anthrax is an infection caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, which manifests in four forms: cutaneous, pulmonary, intestinal, and injection. It can spread through contact with the bacteriums spores, often found in infected animals or animal products. Symptoms can appear between one day and more than two months after contracting the infection. In the cutaneous form, a small blister with surrounding swelling turns into a painless ulcer with a black center. Pulmonary anthrax manifests itself with fever, chest pain, and breathing issues, while the intestinal form causes diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. In the injection form, it may lead to fever and an abscess at the injection site. According to the CDC, anthrax was first identified in 1752, and in 1769, it had been described in historical accounts. Anthrax vaccinations have been available in the U.S. since the 1950s and are recommended for people at risk of infection or in areas with previous infections. The anthrax attacks The 2001 anthrax attacks occurred in two sets of letters containing anthrax. The first set, postmarked Trenton, New Jersey, on September 18, 2001, was sent to ABC News, CBS News, NBC News, the New York Post (all located in New York City), and the National Enquirer at American Media, Inc. in Boca Raton, Florida. An enlarged copy of an envelope addressed to Patrick Leahy, that contained anthrax, is shown during a news conference on november 2001. RICK BOWMER (AP) The first known victim was Robert Stevens, a photojournalist who worked at the Sun tabloid, also published by AMI. He died on October 5, 2001, four days after experiencing symptoms like vomiting and shortness of breath. The letter was never found, but three individuals at ABC, CBS, and AMI became infected with anthrax. The second set of letters, dated October 9, were addressed to two U.S. Senators: Tom Daschle of South Dakota, the Senate majority leader at the time, and Patrick Leahy of Vermont, head of the Senate Judiciary Committee. The letter addressed to Daschle was opened by an aide, Grant Leslie, on October 15, prompting the shutdown of the government mail service. The one addressed to Leahy was found in an impounded mailbag on November 16 because of a ZIP code misreading. David Hose, who worked at the annex, contracted anthrax. The material found in the media letters was described as clumped coarse brown granular material, similar in appearance to dog food, according to a scientific examination. The Senate letters contained a more potent, highly refined dry powder consisting of about one gram of nearly pure spores. Although some reports initially claimed that the powders were weaponized with silica, bioweapons experts later rebuked this claim after analyzing the anthrax used in the attacks. The letters were copied using a copy machine; the originals were never found. Both are dated September 11 in a possible reference to 9/11. The media letters contained the following note: 09-11-01 THIS IS NEXT TAKE PENICILLIN NOW DEATH TO AMERICA DEATH TO ISRAEL ALLAH IS GREAT The Senate note read: 09-11-01 YOU CANNOT STOP US. WE HAVE THIS ANTHRAX. YOU DIE NOW. ARE YOU AFRAID? DEATH TO AMERICA. DEATH TO ISRAEL. ALLAH IS GREAT. The references to Allah and Death to America appeared to link the letters to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Immediately after the attacks, FBI Director Robert Mueller faced pressure from White House officials to publicly blame al-Qaeda without evidence. President George Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney also mentioned the possibility of a link between the attack and al-Qaeda. Attack survivor David Hose sorts through a basket full of medications, in 2004. He worked at a postal facility when the attacks happened. STEVE HELBER (AP) Who was responsible? In October 2001, it became known that the strain of anthrax used in the attacks was the Ames strain, isolated in Texas in 1981. Molecular biologist Barbara Hatch Rosenberg suggested that the mailings might be the work of a rogue CIA agent and provided the FBI with a name of the most likely person involved, leading to an investigation into Steven Hatfill, an American physician, pathologist, and biological weapons expert. Hatfill was considered a person of interest, and his apartment was searched by the FBI on June 25, 2002. Hatfill denied involvement and later filed a lawsuit against the FBI, which was settled with a $4.6 million annuity in 2008. He was officially exonerated of involvement in the attacks. The Justice Department later identified military scientist Bruce Edwards Ivins as the sole perpetrator. Ivins, a microbiologist at the United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID) at Fort Detrick, Maryland, had been involved in anthrax research, developing vaccines and treatments for anthrax infections. He came under suspicion in 2008 after a lengthy FBI investigation due to his access to anthrax at his workplace, his expertise in microbiology, and inconsistencies in his statements and unusual behavior. The FBI also discovered that Ivins had mental health issues, a history of threats, and detailed homicidal plans shared with a social worker who treated him. Ivins died by suicide on July 29, 2008. Eight days later, the FBI and the DOJ formally announced that the Government had concluded that Ivins was likely solely responsible for the attacks. On February 19, 2010, the FBI released a 92-page summary of evidence against Ivins and closed the investigation. Despite the FBIs conclusion, some senior microbiologists, the widow of one of the victims, and Patrick Leahy, who was among the targets, have contested it. The FBI later requested a panel from the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) to review its scientific work on the case. On May 15, 2011, the panel concluded that the bureau overstated the strength of genetic analysis linking the mailed anthrax to a supply kept by Bruce E. Ivins. It also stated that it is not possible to reach a definitive conclusion about the origins of the B. anthracis in the mailings based on the available scientific evidence. As a result of the attacks, five people died, and 17 were injured. Several victims reported lingering health problems years after the attack, and no further investigation into the case has been conducted. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Donald Trump is facing new blowback from anti-abortion activists for refusing to commit to national abortion restrictions and for calling Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signing of a six-week ban on the procedure a terrible mistake. Speaking Sunday on NBCs Meet the Press, Trump repeatedly declined to say whether he would support a federal ban on abortion. He said he could live with the procedure being banned by individual states or nationwide through federal action, though he said from a legal standpoint, I think its probably better to be handled at the state level. Regarding the bill signed by DeSantis, which bans abortions before many women know they are pregnant, Trump said, I think what he did is a terrible thing and a terrible mistake. So far, the former president has dominated the 2024 field while at times spurning the anti-abortion groups that traditionally have huge influence in Republican primaries. But Trumps direct attack on DeSantis, whom hes long treated as his chief rival, could give the Florida governor new fodder as he tries to regain momentum in his campaign and solidify his second-place standing. Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, DeSantis campaign spokesman Bryan Griffin wrote of Trump: If you want to appease Democrats, heres your guy. If you want to defeat the Democrats in 2024, (DeSantis) is the only choice. The countrys largest anti-abortion organization, which backs a national ban on abortions at 15 weeks of pregnancy, quickly released a statement saying anything less restrictive makes no sense. Were at a moment where we need a human rights advocate, someone who is dedicated to saving the lives of children and serving mothers in need. Every single candidate should be clear on how they plan to do that, said Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America. Evangelicals and other social conservatives who strongly oppose abortion make up the majority of those who participate and decide the winner in Iowa, where the Jan. 15 caucuses are first on the Republican nominating calendar. Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds this summer signed an abortion ban similar to Floridas. Reynolds has not endorsed a candidate. Trump has called himself the the most pro-life president in American history and noted that three of his picks for the Supreme Court formed the conservative majority that overturned Roe v. Wade, which had guaranteed a federal right to abortion. Interviews with GOP voters and activists over the past several months suggest a split between people who point to Trumps record during his term and others who want Trump to endorse a national abortion ban. Trump has so far declined to go along with some of his rivals, including his onetime vice president, Mike Pence, who is pushing for national bans that would take effect relatively early in a pregnancy. Hes warned Republicans against locking themselves into positions that are unpopular with a majority of the public, and has argued that the Supreme Courts decision gives abortion opponents the right to negotiate restrictions where they live rather than rely on federal bans. The Supreme Court ruling left the decision of whether and how to restrict abortion to the states, creating a patchwork of laws across the country, with most Republican-led states imposing new restrictions and states led by Democrats passing protections. Twenty-five million women of childbearing age now live in states where abortions are more difficult to get since before the ruling. Trump also has approached the issue from a political stance, saying that the courts ruling and Republicans push for abortion restrictions hurt the GOP in the 2022 midterm elections and that GOP candidates need to do a better job of explaining the issue. Republicans in some key states, including those backing his rivals, expressed displeasure. Among them was South Carolina state Rep. John McCravy, who sponsored the most recent, restrictive abortion measure, which bans the practice in his state after around six weeks of pregnancy. South Carolina will be among the early states to choose a nominee. I was certainly disappointed with what I heard from President Trump today concerning the Florida Heartbeat Bill, McCravy told The Associated Press, after watching Trumps interview. It sounded completely out of step with his staunch support for life while he was president. McCravy has endorsed South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott in the 2024 GOP presidential primary but told AP last week, Trump would probably be a close second, noting his Supreme Court appointments and his attending the March for Life rally in Washington. Hopefully he will re-think and clarify his position concerning life and the Heartbeat Bill after the political fallout which is sure to come, McCravy said. One of the anti-abortion leaders in the battleground state of Arizona posted a segment of the Meet the Press interview on X. Cathi Herrod, president of the Center for Arizona Policy, wrote that Trump has abandoned the pro-life movement. Watch this in its entirety, Herrod wrote. He criticizes Ron DeSantis for signing the heartbeat bill. Wont commit to a position. Unacceptable. Time to move on. Kristen Waggoner, CEO of the conservative legal organization Alliance Defending Freedom, also took issue. Laws protecting the unborn are not a terrible mistake. They are the hallmark of a just and moral society, she wrote on X. Governors who protect life should be applauded, not attacked. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Bard Financial Services Inc. lifted its stake in Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE Free Report) by 0.5% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 312,444 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after purchasing an additional 1,425 shares during the quarter. Pfizer accounts for approximately 0.9% of Bard Financial Services Inc.s holdings, making the stock its 23rd biggest position. Bard Financial Services Inc.s holdings in Pfizer were worth $11,460,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in PFE. Beech Hill Advisors Inc. grew its position in Pfizer by 2.8% during the second quarter. Beech Hill Advisors Inc. now owns 88,016 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $3,228,000 after buying an additional 2,365 shares during the period. Castle Rock Wealth Management LLC raised its position in shares of Pfizer by 220.4% during the second quarter. Castle Rock Wealth Management LLC now owns 24,770 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $903,000 after buying an additional 17,040 shares during the last quarter. Good Life Advisors LLC grew its position in shares of Pfizer by 6.3% during the second quarter. Good Life Advisors LLC now owns 29,780 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,092,000 after purchasing an additional 1,756 shares in the last quarter. Profit Investment Management LLC boosted its position in shares of Pfizer by 67.2% during the 2nd quarter. Profit Investment Management LLC now owns 11,595 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $425,000 after acquiring an additional 4,660 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Sarasin & Partners LLP raised its position in shares of Pfizer by 22.7% during the 2nd quarter. Sarasin & Partners LLP now owns 568,857 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $20,866,000 after buying an additional 105,357 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 68.05% of the companys stock. Get Pfizer alerts: Pfizer Stock Down 0.2 % Shares of NYSE PFE opened at $34.07 on Monday. The company has a 50-day moving average of $35.80 and a 200 day moving average of $37.96. Pfizer Inc. has a 12-month low of $33.54 and a 12-month high of $54.93. The company has a current ratio of 2.12, a quick ratio of 1.82 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.62. The stock has a market cap of $192.36 billion, a PE ratio of 9.06, a P/E/G ratio of 1.14 and a beta of 0.59. Pfizer Announces Dividend Pfizer ( NYSE:PFE Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, August 1st. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.67 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.57 by $0.10. Pfizer had a net margin of 27.55% and a return on equity of 28.36%. The business had revenue of $12.73 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $13.36 billion. During the same period last year, the business earned $2.04 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 54.1% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Pfizer Inc. will post 3.33 EPS for the current fiscal year. The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, September 5th. Stockholders of record on Friday, July 28th were given a dividend of $0.41 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, July 27th. This represents a $1.64 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.81%. Pfizers dividend payout ratio is presently 43.62%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of equities analysts recently commented on the stock. HSBC started coverage on shares of Pfizer in a research note on Friday, July 14th. They set a buy rating and a $50.00 price target for the company. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Pfizer in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. They set a hold rating for the company. Jefferies Financial Group dropped their price target on Pfizer from $40.00 to $38.00 in a research note on Wednesday, August 2nd. Morgan Stanley reduced their price objective on Pfizer from $42.00 to $40.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, August 2nd. Finally, Barclays lowered their target price on Pfizer from $40.00 to $38.00 in a research note on Tuesday, July 11th. Twelve research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $46.35. Read Our Latest Analysis on Pfizer Pfizer Profile (Free Report) Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Nimenrix, FSME/IMMUN-TicoVac, and Trumenba brands; and COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and potential future mRNA and antiviral products under the Comirnaty and Paxlovid brands. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PFE? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Pfizer Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pfizer and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. City State Bank raised its position in shares of UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH Free Report) by 2.0% during the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 2,697 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock after buying an additional 52 shares during the quarter. City State Banks holdings in UnitedHealth Group were worth $1,296,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the stock. BlackRock Inc. increased its stake in UnitedHealth Group by 0.7% during the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 74,928,539 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock worth $35,410,478,000 after buying an additional 509,633 shares in the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP lifted its position in shares of UnitedHealth Group by 0.6% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 24,079,140 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $11,379,561,000 after acquiring an additional 140,312 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its position in shares of UnitedHealth Group by 1.4% during the 1st quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 17,101,395 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $8,063,262,000 after acquiring an additional 242,959 shares during the period. Morgan Stanley lifted its stake in UnitedHealth Group by 13.8% in the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 15,635,038 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $8,289,386,000 after buying an additional 1,893,192 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC lifted its stake in UnitedHealth Group by 100,076.4% in the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 11,823,820 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $6,268,753,000 after buying an additional 11,812,017 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 85.69% of the companys stock. Get UnitedHealth Group alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several brokerages have weighed in on UNH. Morgan Stanley reiterated an overweight rating and issued a $587.00 price target on shares of UnitedHealth Group in a report on Friday, July 14th. StockNews.com began coverage on UnitedHealth Group in a report on Thursday, August 17th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Sanford C. Bernstein raised shares of UnitedHealth Group from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and upped their price objective for the company from $595.00 to $603.00 in a research report on Tuesday, July 18th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft decreased their price objective on shares of UnitedHealth Group from $564.00 to $555.00 in a research report on Monday, July 17th. Finally, Cantor Fitzgerald reaffirmed an overweight rating and set a $591.00 price target on shares of UnitedHealth Group in a research report on Thursday. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, fourteen have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, UnitedHealth Group presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $575.65. Insider Activity In related news, CEO Andrew Witty sold 4,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, July 19th. The shares were sold at an average price of $506.19, for a total transaction of $2,024,760.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 78,573 shares in the company, valued at $39,772,866.87. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 0.35% of the companys stock. UnitedHealth Group Trading Up 0.6 % UNH opened at $486.70 on Monday. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated has a fifty-two week low of $445.68 and a fifty-two week high of $558.10. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.68, a current ratio of 0.80 and a quick ratio of 0.80. The company has a market cap of $450.83 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 21.78, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.42 and a beta of 0.66. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $492.05 and a 200 day simple moving average of $486.73. UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:UNH Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Friday, July 14th. The healthcare conglomerate reported $6.14 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $5.92 by $0.22. UnitedHealth Group had a net margin of 6.06% and a return on equity of 26.72%. The firm had revenue of $92.90 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $90.97 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $5.57 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 15.6% on a year-over-year basis. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that UnitedHealth Group Incorporated will post 24.83 earnings per share for the current year. UnitedHealth Group Announces Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 19th. Stockholders of record on Monday, September 11th will be issued a $1.88 dividend. This represents a $7.52 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.55%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, September 8th. UnitedHealth Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 33.65%. UnitedHealth Group Profile (Free Report) UnitedHealth Group Incorporated operates as a diversified health care company in the United States. It operates through four segments: UnitedHealthcare, Optum Health, Optum Insight, and Optum Rx. The UnitedHealthcare segment offers consumer-oriented health benefit plans and services for national employers, public sector employers, mid-sized employers, small businesses, and individuals; health care coverage, and health and well-being services to individuals age 50 and older addressing their needs; Medicaid plans, children's health insurance and health care programs; and health and dental benefits, and hospital and clinical services, as well as health care benefits products and services to state programs caring for the economically disadvantaged, medically underserved, and those without the benefit of employer-funded health care coverage. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding UNH? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for UnitedHealth Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for UnitedHealth Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Czech National Bank grew its position in Agilent Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:A Free Report) by 0.4% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 35,005 shares of the medical research companys stock after buying an additional 151 shares during the period. Czech National Banks holdings in Agilent Technologies were worth $4,209,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. B.O.S.S. Retirement Advisors LLC acquired a new position in Agilent Technologies in the 2nd quarter worth $2,033,000. AE Wealth Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of Agilent Technologies by 103.3% in the 2nd quarter. AE Wealth Management LLC now owns 98,800 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $11,881,000 after purchasing an additional 50,206 shares during the period. SG Americas Securities LLC raised its holdings in shares of Agilent Technologies by 9.5% in the 2nd quarter. SG Americas Securities LLC now owns 268,458 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $32,282,000 after purchasing an additional 23,381 shares during the period. Nordea Investment Management AB grew its stake in Agilent Technologies by 106.0% in the 2nd quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB now owns 759,882 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $90,441,000 after buying an additional 391,030 shares during the last quarter. Finally, InTrack Investment Management Inc grew its stake in Agilent Technologies by 20.9% in the 2nd quarter. InTrack Investment Management Inc now owns 4,432 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $533,000 after buying an additional 765 shares during the last quarter. Get Agilent Technologies alerts: Agilent Technologies Price Performance Shares of NYSE:A opened at $115.91 on Monday. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $121.61 and a 200 day simple moving average of $126.47. The company has a market cap of $33.91 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 30.34, a PEG ratio of 2.09 and a beta of 1.03. Agilent Technologies, Inc. has a one year low of $109.00 and a one year high of $160.26. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.49, a current ratio of 2.29 and a quick ratio of 1.68. Insider Activity Agilent Technologies ( NYSE:A Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, August 15th. The medical research company reported $1.43 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.36 by $0.07. The firm had revenue of $1.67 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.66 billion. Agilent Technologies had a net margin of 16.20% and a return on equity of 29.86%. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 2.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $1.34 earnings per share. Research analysts predict that Agilent Technologies, Inc. will post 5.42 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. In other news, VP Rodney Gonsalves sold 3,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, August 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $118.78, for a total transaction of $415,730.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president now owns 24,219 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,876,732.82. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. In other Agilent Technologies news, CEO Michael R. Mcmullen sold 944 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, July 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $130.00, for a total value of $122,720.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 260,869 shares in the company, valued at $33,912,970. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, VP Rodney Gonsalves sold 3,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, August 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $118.78, for a total transaction of $415,730.00. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now owns 24,219 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,876,732.82. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of brokerages have issued reports on A. TheStreet lowered shares of Agilent Technologies from a b rating to a c+ rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 15th. Evercore ISI decreased their target price on shares of Agilent Technologies from $124.00 to $120.00 and set an in-line rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, August 16th. Credit Suisse Group decreased their target price on shares of Agilent Technologies from $160.00 to $150.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, August 16th. Stifel Nicolaus reduced their price target on shares of Agilent Technologies from $153.00 to $135.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, May 24th. Finally, StockNews.com upgraded shares of Agilent Technologies from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Friday, August 25th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and twelve have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Agilent Technologies currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $148.12. Check Out Our Latest Report on Agilent Technologies About Agilent Technologies (Free Report) Agilent Technologies, Inc provides application focused solutions to the life sciences, diagnostics, and applied chemical markets worldwide. The Life Sciences and Applied Markets segment offers liquid chromatography systems and components; liquid chromatography mass spectrometry systems; gas chromatography systems and components; gas chromatography mass spectrometry systems; inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry instruments; atomic absorption instruments; microwave plasma-atomic emission spectrometry instruments; inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry instruments; raman spectroscopy; cell analysis plate based assays; flow cytometer; real-time cell analyzer; cell imaging systems; microplate reader; laboratory software; information management and analytics; laboratory automation and robotic systems; dissolution testing; vacuum pumps, and measurement technologies. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding A? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Agilent Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:A Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Agilent Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Agilent Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S. (OTCMKTS:TAVHY Get Free Report) and Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V. (NYSE:ASR Get Free Report) are both industrials companies, but which is the superior business? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their earnings, valuation, profitability, analyst recommendations, dividends, institutional ownership and risk. Analyst Ratings This is a breakdown of current recommendations and price targets for TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S. and Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V., as reported by MarketBeat. Get TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S. alerts: Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S. 0 0 0 0 N/A Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V. 3 0 2 0 1.80 Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V. has a consensus price target of $255.00, suggesting a potential downside of 1.37%. Given Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V.s higher probable upside, analysts plainly believe Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V. is more favorable than TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S.. Dividends Profitability TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S. pays an annual dividend of $1.26 per share and has a dividend yield of 7.0%. Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V. pays an annual dividend of $5.08 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.0%. TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S. pays out 33.8% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V. pays out 28.3% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years. Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V. has increased its dividend for 2 consecutive years. This table compares TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S. and Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V.s net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S. N/A N/A N/A Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V. 38.49% 20.94% 14.50% Institutional and Insider Ownership 0.2% of TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S. shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 13.1% of Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V. shares are owned by institutional investors. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term. Valuation and Earnings This table compares TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S. and Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V.s gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S. N/A N/A N/A $3.72 4.84 Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V. $1.26 billion 6.16 $496.33 million $17.96 14.40 Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V. has higher revenue and earnings than TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S.. TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S. is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V., indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. Summary Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V. beats TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S. on 11 of the 12 factors compared between the two stocks. About TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S. (Get Free Report) TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S., together with its subsidiaries, constructs terminal buildings, and manages and operates terminals or airports in Turkey, Kazakhstan, Georgia, Qatar, Macedonia, Macedonia, Latvia, Croatia, Tunisia, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Spain, and internationally. It operates through Terminal Operations, Catering Operations, Duty Free Operations, Ground Handling and Bus Operations, and Other segments. The Terminal Operations segment operates terminal buildings, car parks, and general aviation terminals. This segment also engages in the ground handling operations, as well as operation of parking-apron-taxi ways. The Catering Operations segment manages food and beverage operations of the terminal for passengers and the terminal personnel. The Duty Free Operations segment sells duty free goods for the international arriving and departing passengers. The Ground Handling and Bus Operations segment offers traffic, ramp, flight operation, cargo, and various other ground handling services for domestic and international flights; and operates buses. The Other segment provides lounge, IT, security and education, and airline taxi services. It also provides software and system services. The company was formerly known as Tepe Akfen Vie Yatirim Yapim ve Isletme A.S. and changed its name to TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S. in August 2006. TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S. was founded in 1997 and is headquartered in Istanbul, Turkey. About Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V. (Get Free Report) Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V. holds concessions to operate, maintain, and develop airports in the southeast region of Mexico. The company operates airports that are located in the cities of Cancun, Cozumel, Merida, Huatulco, Oaxaca, Veracruz, Villahermosa, Tapachula, and Minatitlan. It provides aeronautical services, which include passenger, aircraft landing and parking, passenger walkway, and airport security services. The company also offers non-aeronautical services, such as leasing of space at its airports to retailers, restaurants, airlines, and other commercial tenants; catering, handling, and ground transportation services, as well as engages in the various commercial operations. In addition, it holds concessions to operate the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico; and various airports in Colombia, including the Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport in Medellin, the Jose Maria Cordova International Airport in Rionegro, the Los Garzones Airport in Monteria, the Antonio Roldan Betancourt Airport in Carepa, the El Carano Airport in Quibdo, and the Las Brujas Airport in Corozal. Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S. A. B. de C. V. was incorporated in 1998 and is headquartered in Mexico City, Mexico. Receive News & Ratings for TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for TAV Havalimanlari Holding A.S. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Equatorial Energia (OTCMKTS:EQUEY Get Free Report) is one of 25 publicly-traded companies in the UtilitiesRegulated Electric industry, but how does it contrast to its peers? We will compare Equatorial Energia to similar businesses based on the strength of its valuation, dividends, risk, earnings, analyst recommendations, institutional ownership and profitability. Insider and Institutional Ownership 0.0% of Equatorial Energia shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 43.8% of shares of all UtilitiesRegulated Electric companies are owned by institutional investors. 15.9% of shares of all UtilitiesRegulated Electric companies are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, endowments and hedge funds believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term. Get Equatorial Energia alerts: Analyst Recommendations This is a breakdown of current recommendations and price targets for Equatorial Energia and its peers, as reported by MarketBeat.com. Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Equatorial Energia 0 0 0 0 N/A Equatorial Energia Competitors 42 593 459 6 2.39 Profitability As a group, UtilitiesRegulated Electric companies have a potential upside of 11.56%. Given Equatorial Energias peers higher possible upside, analysts clearly believe Equatorial Energia has less favorable growth aspects than its peers. This table compares Equatorial Energia and its peers net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Equatorial Energia N/A N/A N/A Equatorial Energia Competitors 11.21% 11.37% 5.98% Dividends Equatorial Energia pays an annual dividend of $0.07 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.1%. Equatorial Energia pays out 29.7% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, UtilitiesRegulated Electric companies pay a dividend yield of 4.9% and pay out 448.8% of their earnings in the form of a dividend. Earnings & Valuation This table compares Equatorial Energia and its peers gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation. Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Equatorial Energia N/A N/A 28.21 Equatorial Energia Competitors $7.86 billion $1.08 billion 202.63 Equatorial Energias peers have higher revenue and earnings than Equatorial Energia. Equatorial Energia is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its peers, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry. Summary Equatorial Energia peers beat Equatorial Energia on 9 of the 10 factors compared. Equatorial Energia Company Profile (Get Free Report) Equatorial Energia S.A., through its subsidiaries, engages in the electricity generation, distribution, transmission, and sanitation operations in Brazil. It operates through Distribution, Transmission, Wind Generation, Services, Sanitation, and Other segments. The company generates energy from wind, solar, biomass, qualified co-generation, and hydroelectric plants. It also distributes electric energy in the 217 municipalities of Maranhao State with a concession area of approximately 332,000 square kilometers serving approximately 2.5 million consumers; and 144 municipalities of Para State with a concession area covering 1,248,000 square kilometers serving approximately 2.6 million consumers. In addition, the company distributes electric energy to 224 municipalities of Piaui State with a concession area covering 251,000 square kilometers serving approximately 1.3 million consumers; 102 municipalities of Alagoas State with a concession area covering 27,848 square kilometers serving approximately 1.2 million consumers; 16 municipalities of Amapa State serving approximately 209,000 consumers; and 72 municipalities of Rio de Janeiro State serving approximately 1.8 million consumers. Equatorial Energia S.A. was founded in 1958 and is based in Brasilia, Brazil. Receive News & Ratings for Equatorial Energia Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Equatorial Energia and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Maryland State Retirement & Pension System decreased its holdings in Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE Free Report) by 3.5% in the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 431,676 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 15,799 shares during the period. Maryland State Retirement & Pension Systems holdings in Pfizer were worth $15,834,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. BancFirst Trust & Investment Management boosted its position in Pfizer by 2.3% during the 1st quarter. BancFirst Trust & Investment Management now owns 17,794 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $719,000 after buying an additional 398 shares during the period. Strategic Investment Advisors MI lifted its position in shares of Pfizer by 32.1% in the 1st quarter. Strategic Investment Advisors MI now owns 94,117 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $3,840,000 after purchasing an additional 22,879 shares during the period. State of Michigan Retirement System lifted its position in shares of Pfizer by 0.9% in the 1st quarter. State of Michigan Retirement System now owns 1,771,584 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $72,281,000 after purchasing an additional 15,900 shares during the period. MainStreet Investment Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of Pfizer by 1.6% in the 1st quarter. MainStreet Investment Advisors LLC now owns 197,477 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $8,057,000 after purchasing an additional 3,099 shares during the period. Finally, Center For Asset Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Pfizer by 28.0% in the 1st quarter. Center For Asset Management LLC now owns 23,894 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $975,000 after purchasing an additional 5,228 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 68.05% of the companys stock. Get Pfizer alerts: Pfizer Stock Performance PFE opened at $34.07 on Monday. The company has a current ratio of 2.12, a quick ratio of 1.82 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.62. The company has a market cap of $192.36 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.06, a PEG ratio of 1.14 and a beta of 0.59. The companys 50 day moving average is $35.80 and its 200 day moving average is $37.96. Pfizer Inc. has a 12-month low of $33.54 and a 12-month high of $54.93. Pfizer Dividend Announcement Pfizer ( NYSE:PFE Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, August 1st. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.67 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.57 by $0.10. The company had revenue of $12.73 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $13.36 billion. Pfizer had a net margin of 27.55% and a return on equity of 28.36%. The firms revenue was down 54.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $2.04 earnings per share. On average, equities research analysts predict that Pfizer Inc. will post 3.33 EPS for the current year. The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, September 5th. Investors of record on Friday, July 28th were issued a $0.41 dividend. This represents a $1.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.81%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, July 27th. Pfizers payout ratio is 43.62%. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several equities research analysts have recently commented on PFE shares. Barclays dropped their target price on shares of Pfizer from $40.00 to $38.00 in a research report on Tuesday, July 11th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. decreased their price target on shares of Pfizer from $45.00 to $41.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Monday, July 17th. BMO Capital Markets decreased their price target on shares of Pfizer from $45.00 to $44.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, August 2nd. Jefferies Financial Group decreased their price target on shares of Pfizer from $40.00 to $38.00 in a research note on Wednesday, August 2nd. Finally, StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Pfizer in a research note on Thursday, August 17th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Twelve investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $46.35. Check Out Our Latest Report on PFE Pfizer Company Profile (Free Report) Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Nimenrix, FSME/IMMUN-TicoVac, and Trumenba brands; and COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and potential future mRNA and antiviral products under the Comirnaty and Paxlovid brands. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Pfizer Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pfizer and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Maryland State Retirement & Pension System decreased its position in shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. (NYSE:MMC Free Report) by 3.6% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 37,812 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 1,401 shares during the quarter. Maryland State Retirement & Pension Systems holdings in Marsh & McLennan Companies were worth $7,112,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other large investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. BlackRock Inc. increased its holdings in Marsh & McLennan Companies by 0.7% in the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 43,450,484 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $7,236,678,000 after acquiring an additional 310,250 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC increased its holdings in Marsh & McLennan Companies by 0.6% in the 4th quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 10,306,370 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,702,898,000 after acquiring an additional 65,306 shares during the last quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC increased its holdings in Marsh & McLennan Companies by 105,777.7% in the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 9,772,516 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,617,156,000 after acquiring an additional 9,763,286 shares during the last quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD increased its holdings in Marsh & McLennan Companies by 4.8% in the 1st quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 9,632,763 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,604,338,000 after acquiring an additional 444,685 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Ameriprise Financial Inc. increased its holdings in Marsh & McLennan Companies by 6.9% in the 1st quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 8,138,055 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,355,352,000 after acquiring an additional 525,596 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 86.64% of the companys stock. Get Marsh & McLennan Companies alerts: Marsh & McLennan Companies Stock Down 1.2 % NYSE:MMC opened at $196.19 on Monday. Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. has a 1-year low of $148.11 and a 1-year high of $198.78. The firm has a market capitalization of $96.91 billion, a P/E ratio of 29.95, a PEG ratio of 2.45 and a beta of 0.94. The companys fifty day moving average price is $191.59 and its 200-day moving average price is $180.00. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.84, a current ratio of 1.05 and a quick ratio of 1.05. Marsh & McLennan Companies Increases Dividend Marsh & McLennan Companies ( NYSE:MMC Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 20th. The financial services provider reported $2.20 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.12 by $0.08. Marsh & McLennan Companies had a net margin of 15.20% and a return on equity of 33.69%. The firm had revenue of $5.88 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.77 billion. During the same period last year, the business earned $1.89 earnings per share. Marsh & McLennan Companiess revenue was up 9.2% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. will post 7.71 EPS for the current year. The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, August 15th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, July 27th were given a dividend of $0.71 per share. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, July 26th. This is a boost from Marsh & McLennan Companiess previous quarterly dividend of $0.59. This represents a $2.84 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.45%. Marsh & McLennan Companiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 43.36%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of research firms have recently weighed in on MMC. Bank of America upgraded shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies from an underperform rating to a neutral rating and boosted their target price for the stock from $189.00 to $210.00 in a report on Friday, July 21st. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price target on shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies from $182.00 to $197.00 in a report on Thursday, July 6th. Raymond James upped their price target on shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies from $195.00 to $205.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Monday, July 24th. Morgan Stanley boosted their price objective on shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies from $202.00 to $205.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Friday, July 21st. Finally, StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Eleven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $193.23. Read Our Latest Research Report on MMC Insider Buying and Selling at Marsh & McLennan Companies In other Marsh & McLennan Companies news, CEO Dean Michael Klisura sold 12,976 shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, July 26th. The shares were sold at an average price of $192.20, for a total transaction of $2,493,987.20. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 20,935 shares in the company, valued at $4,023,707. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. In related news, CEO Dean Michael Klisura sold 12,976 shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, July 26th. The shares were sold at an average price of $192.20, for a total value of $2,493,987.20. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 20,935 shares in the company, valued at $4,023,707. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, CFO Mark C. Mcgivney sold 70,106 shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, June 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $185.53, for a total transaction of $13,006,766.18. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 33,678 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $6,248,279.34. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 86,082 shares of company stock worth $16,085,453 over the last three months. Insiders own 0.30% of the companys stock. About Marsh & McLennan Companies (Free Report) Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc, a professional services company, provides advice and solutions to clients in the areas of risk, strategy, and people worldwide. It operates in two segments, Risk and Insurance Services, and Consulting. The Risk and Insurance Services segment offers risk management services, such as risk advice, risk transfer, and risk control and mitigation solutions, as well as insurance and reinsurance broking, strategic advisory services, and analytics solutions; and insurance program management services. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Marsh & McLennan Companies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Marsh & McLennan Companies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Bank of New York Mellon (NYSE:BK Free Report) had its price objective lowered by Morgan Stanley from $49.00 to $48.00 in a research report report published on Friday morning, Benzinga reports. The brokerage currently has an underweight rating on the banks stock. Other research analysts have also issued research reports about the company. Citigroup reduced their price target on Bank of New York Mellon from $58.00 to $55.00 in a research note on Wednesday, July 19th. StockNews.com began coverage on Bank of New York Mellon in a report on Thursday, August 17th. They set a hold rating for the company. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft upped their price objective on Bank of New York Mellon from $43.00 to $44.00 in a report on Wednesday, July 19th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $53.00. Get Bank of New York Mellon alerts: Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Bank of New York Mellon Bank of New York Mellon Price Performance Shares of NYSE:BK opened at $45.21 on Friday. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $44.86 and its 200-day simple moving average is $44.13. The firm has a market capitalization of $35.21 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.18, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.18 and a beta of 1.10. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.94, a current ratio of 0.72 and a quick ratio of 0.72. Bank of New York Mellon has a 12 month low of $36.22 and a 12 month high of $52.26. Bank of New York Mellon (NYSE:BK Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, July 18th. The bank reported $1.38 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.22 by $0.16. Bank of New York Mellon had a return on equity of 11.88% and a net margin of 10.95%. The firm had revenue of $4.45 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.37 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $1.15 EPS. Bank of New York Mellons revenue was up 4.7% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Bank of New York Mellon will post 4.85 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Bank of New York Mellon Increases Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, August 10th. Shareholders of record on Friday, July 28th were paid a $0.42 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, July 27th. This represents a $1.68 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.72%. This is a positive change from Bank of New York Mellons previous quarterly dividend of $0.37. Bank of New York Mellons dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 48.98%. Insider Buying and Selling at Bank of New York Mellon In related news, EVP J Kevin Mccarthy sold 35,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, July 19th. The shares were sold at an average price of $46.33, for a total transaction of $1,621,550.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 98,102 shares in the company, valued at $4,545,065.66. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. In related news, insider Kurtis R. Kurimsky sold 14,045 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, August 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $45.64, for a total transaction of $641,013.80. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 23,816 shares in the company, valued at $1,086,962.24. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, EVP J Kevin Mccarthy sold 35,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, July 19th. The shares were sold at an average price of $46.33, for a total transaction of $1,621,550.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 98,102 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,545,065.66. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.10% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Nemes Rush Group LLC acquired a new position in Bank of New York Mellon in the second quarter worth approximately $27,000. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. boosted its stake in Bank of New York Mellon by 97.1% in the 1st quarter. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. now owns 609 shares of the banks stock worth $30,000 after purchasing an additional 300 shares during the period. Exos TFP Holdings LLC acquired a new position in Bank of New York Mellon in the 4th quarter worth approximately $32,000. Duncker Streett & Co. Inc. acquired a new position in Bank of New York Mellon in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $33,000. Finally, Glass Jacobson Investment Advisors llc acquired a new position in Bank of New York Mellon in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $35,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 81.29% of the companys stock. About Bank of New York Mellon (Get Free Report) The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation provides a range of financial products and services in the United States and internationally. The company operates through Securities Services, Market and Wealth Services, Investment and Wealth Management, and other segments. The Securities Services segment offers custody, trust and depositary, accounting, exchange-traded funds, middle-office solutions, transfer agency, services for private equity and real estate funds, foreign exchange, securities lending, liquidity/lending services, and data analytics. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Bank of New York Mellon Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of New York Mellon and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. G77+China summit concludes with emphasis on empowering Global South Xinhua) 08:50, September 18, 2023 * The two-day Summit of the Group of 77 (G77) and China concluded on Saturday with a call for more participation and say of the Global South in the global governance system. * Terming the group "a champion of multilateralism," Guterres called on G77 and China to "champion a system rooted in equality; champion a system ready to reverse the injustice and neglect of centuries; and champion a system that delivers for all humanity and not for the privileged." * "China has been very active in promoting a fairer economic and political order in keeping with the interests of developing countries. It has maintained a systematic and consistent policy supporting the multilateral bloc," said a senior researcher from Cuba. HAVANA, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- The two-day Summit of the Group of 77 (G77) and China concluded on Saturday with a call for more participation and say of the Global South in the global governance system. The event was attended by delegations from more than 100 countries, including over 30 heads of state and government. First established in 1964, G77 now has over 130 members, with its chairmanship rotating among member countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America based on regional principles. Being the largest multilateral coordination organization among developing countries, G77's member states account for more than 80 percent of the world's population and over two-thirds of UN member countries. China is not a member but has been supporting and cooperating with the group under the framework of "G77 and China." STRONGER VOICE FOR GLOBAL SOUTH Highlighting the challenges faced by countries in the Global South, the summit underscored the need for a more balanced international order with greater attention to the Global South nations. Speaking at the summit's opening ceremony, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that the voice of the Group of 77 and China will always be essential for the UN system. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addresses the Summit of the Group of 77 (G77) and China in Havana, Cuba, Sept. 15, 2023. (Photo by Joaquin Hernandez/Xinhua) Terming the group "a champion of multilateralism," Guterres called on G77 and China to "champion a system rooted in equality; champion a system ready to reverse the injustice and neglect of centuries; and champion a system that delivers for all humanity and not for the privileged." Cuban expert Ramon Pichs said that the G77 and China Havana Summit played an important role in advancing the global agenda including addressing the threat of climate change. "For developing countries, for G77 and China and Cuba, the moment to act regarding climate change is now," the expert said, adding this is a huge challenge for the development of all nations. In the final declaration of the meeting, the delegates urged international institutions to make additional efforts to support nations in the Global South in such areas as science, technology and innovation. The summit will help boost the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, noted Francisco Pichon, UN resident coordinator in Havana. "A reform to the international financial system, climate change and its funding as well as multilateralism agenda are paramount priorities for the United Nations," he said, in response to calls for more representation and a stronger voice of the Global South in the international governance system. "The unity and activism of G77 and China in international forums and debates are fundamental to advancing the legitimate aspirations of our peoples," the Cuban daily newspaper Granma said. CHINA'S CONTRIBUTION Since the 1990s, with more Chinese involvement under the framework of "G77 and China," the organization has been playing a more relevant role in the international arena. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Cuban revolutionary leader Raul Castro and Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel (L-R, front) pose for a group photo at the Summit of the Group of 77 (G77) and China in Havana, Cuba, Sept. 15, 2023. (Photo by Joaquin Hernandez/Xinhua) During his welcoming speech at the summit, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel highlighted China's efforts to promote international cooperation. "The Global Development Initiative promoted by Chinese President Xi Jinping is an inclusive and coherent proposal in keeping with a just and equitable new international order," he said. Citing the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative as an example, President of the Union of the Comoros and Chairperson of the African Union Azali Assoumani said at the summit that China is aimed at creating a balanced and inclusive scenario based on cooperation with all. Echoing these leaders' words, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro recalled that during the COVID-19 pandemic, China helped Venezuela acquire medicines and COVID-19 vaccines to tackle the emergency. "I feel impressed with the scientific, social and technological achievements reached by China," said Maduro, adding China can help G77 nations increase access to modern technology. "China has developed different initiatives that are related in one way or the other with the aims of the group," Jose Ramon Cabanas, director of the International Policy Research Center of Cuba, told Xinhua. Cabanas added that the impressive performance of the Chinese economy boosts the economic and social relations between China and G77. China gets closer to Asian, African, and Latin American countries "not to impose sanctions, but to contribute to progress and the wellbeing of all," Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega said, calling China a partner "with the will to help and express its solidarity." Unlike other global powers, the relationship between China and G77 is based on respect for self-determination, solidarity, and cooperation, said Eduardo Regalado, a senior researcher at the International Policy Research Center of Cuba. "China has been very active in promoting a fairer economic and political order in keeping with the interests of developing countries. It has maintained a systematic and consistent policy supporting the multilateral bloc," he added. (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun) Aramco President & CEO Amin H Nasser has called for action to avert a more serious energy crisis and avoid a North-South transition divide. In a keynote speech on Monday at the 24th World Petroleum Congress in Calgary, Canada, he highlighted the need for a more realistic and robust transition plan that is multi-source, multi-speed and multi-dimensional. He also emphasised the potential consequences of ignoring energy security and affordability issues, while welcoming growing recognition among world leaders that transition planning required pragmatic and proportionate solutions that reflect different countries economic and energy situations. On the risk of a global energy transition divide, Nasser said: While much of the Global North is focusing on environmental sustainability, the priority for many in the Global South is economic survival. Transition planning has not sufficiently recognised this clear need for distinctive solutions, and a widening divide is an inevitable result. On the danger of phasing out conventional energy prematurely, Nasser said: The current transition shortcomings are already causing mass confusion across industries that produce and/or rely on energy. Long-term planners and investors do not know which way to turn. It is increasing the risk of acute supply-demand imbalances in conventional energy, and therefore an even more serious energy crisis where countries and people, not just assets, are stranded. On the scale of the transition challenge, Nasser said: We are talking about the complete transformation of a $100 trillion global economy today. One that is likely to roughly double in size by 2050, with close to an additional two billion energy consumers. In short, the re-invention of our entire energy-based way of life in less than 30 years. Let us be inspired by that, but understand it means making history. The World Petroleum Congress continues until September 21 and the theme is Energy Transition: The Path to Net Zero. During this years event, the World Petroleum Council presented Nasser with the Dewhurst Award, which recognises leaders who have made an exceptional impact on the global oil, gas and energy industry. Nasser is only the 12th recipient of the award in the nearly 90-year history of the World Petroleum Council. -OGN/TradeArabia News Service KYODO NEWS - Sep 18, 2023 - 19:52 | All, Japan Japan plans to build more ammunition depots at Self-Defense Forces facilities from fiscal 2024 to store long-range missiles as it is set to acquire enemy base strike capabilities, sources close to the matter said Monday. The plan comes as a part of Japan's efforts to increase 130 such depots by fiscal 2032 from roughly 1,400 at present, following its decision in December to acquire the strike capabilities to deter attacks, in a major shift in the pacifist country's security policy amid mounting regional military threats. The depots planned at nine Ground Self-Defense Force facilities across prefectures of Hokkaido, Miyazaki, Kagoshima and Okinawa come on top of four depots that are already being constructed from earlier this fiscal year at SDF facilities in Aomori and Oita prefectures. The Defense Ministry has requested 12.4 billion yen ($84 million) to build the depots under the fiscal 2024 state budget, which will be drafted in December. The new fiscal year starts in April. With the funds, it would start surveys to build depots at six facilities in Hokkaido, design two depots to be constructed at a base in Miyazaki and five at a training ground in Okinawa, and acquire land to construct three depots at a base in Kagoshima. Although the depots could become targets in the event of a crisis situation, the Defense Ministry is expected not to disclose the types and the volume of ammunition the depots would store, the sources said, which could raise safety concerns among the local residents. Japan is scheduled to deploy the long-range missiles with enemy strike capabilities from fiscal 2026 but has yet to decide on where they will be located. Nordea Investment Management AB raised its holdings in shares of Fortive Co. (NYSE:FTV Free Report) by 1,651.2% in the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 461,960 shares of the technology companys stock after purchasing an additional 435,581 shares during the quarter. Nordea Investment Management ABs holdings in Fortive were worth $34,333,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Simplicity Solutions LLC purchased a new stake in Fortive in the 1st quarter valued at about $340,000. Bank of New York Mellon Corp raised its position in Fortive by 1.5% during the 1st quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 2,690,395 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $183,404,000 after purchasing an additional 39,664 shares in the last quarter. Signaturefd LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Fortive by 7.1% in the 1st quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 3,750 shares of the technology companys stock worth $256,000 after buying an additional 248 shares during the period. Credit Suisse AG grew its position in shares of Fortive by 5.8% during the 4th quarter. Credit Suisse AG now owns 688,215 shares of the technology companys stock worth $44,218,000 after buying an additional 37,903 shares in the last quarter. Finally, DekaBank Deutsche Girozentrale increased its stake in shares of Fortive by 14.2% during the first quarter. DekaBank Deutsche Girozentrale now owns 162,540 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $10,872,000 after buying an additional 20,175 shares during the period. 95.95% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Fortive alerts: Fortive Stock Performance Shares of FTV stock opened at $75.99 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.20, a current ratio of 0.96 and a quick ratio of 0.74. The business has a fifty day moving average of $77.00 and a 200 day moving average of $70.62. The firm has a market capitalization of $26.75 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 33.77, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.80 and a beta of 1.15. Fortive Co. has a 1 year low of $57.43 and a 1 year high of $79.90. Fortive Announces Dividend Fortive ( NYSE:FTV Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, July 26th. The technology company reported $0.85 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.81 by $0.04. Fortive had a return on equity of 11.99% and a net margin of 13.39%. The firm had revenue of $1.53 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.51 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $0.78 earnings per share. The companys revenue was up 4.3% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, research analysts expect that Fortive Co. will post 3.42 earnings per share for the current year. The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, September 29th. Investors of record on Friday, September 1st will be issued a dividend of $0.07 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, August 31st. This represents a $0.28 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.37%. Fortives dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 12.44%. Insider Buying and Selling at Fortive In other Fortive news, CEO Patrick K. Murphy sold 21,793 shares of Fortive stock in a transaction dated Friday, July 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $76.50, for a total transaction of $1,667,164.50. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 60,716 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,644,774. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. In related news, CFO Charles E. Mclaughlin sold 16,911 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, July 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $76.66, for a total transaction of $1,296,397.26. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 101,319 shares of the companys stock, valued at $7,767,114.54. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, CEO Patrick K. Murphy sold 21,793 shares of Fortive stock in a transaction on Friday, July 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $76.50, for a total transaction of $1,667,164.50. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 60,716 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,644,774. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 43,404 shares of company stock valued at $3,324,757. 0.95% of the stock is owned by insiders. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In FTV has been the topic of several recent research reports. Barclays increased their target price on shares of Fortive from $77.00 to $83.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, July 27th. Wells Fargo & Company upped their target price on Fortive from $67.00 to $71.00 in a report on Monday, July 10th. StockNews.com started coverage on Fortive in a report on Thursday, August 17th. They issued a buy rating on the stock. Royal Bank of Canada upped their price objective on Fortive from $74.00 to $75.00 in a research note on Friday, May 26th. Finally, Citigroup lifted their target price on Fortive from $85.00 to $90.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, July 27th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Fortive currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $78.00. Check Out Our Latest Research Report on Fortive Fortive Profile (Free Report) Fortive Corporation designs, develops, manufactures, markets, and services professional and engineered products, software, and services worldwide. Intelligent Operating Solutions segment provides advanced instrumentation, software and services, which includes electrical test and measurement, facility and asset lifecycle software applications, and worker safety and compliance solutions for manufacturing, process industries, healthcare, utilities and power, communications and electronics, and other industries. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding FTV? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Fortive Co. (NYSE:FTV Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Fortive Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Fortive and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Deutsche Post (OTCMKTS:DPSGY Get Free Report) and Osterreichische Post (OTCMKTS:OERCF Get Free Report) are both industrials companies, but which is the better investment? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, risk, profitability, dividends, valuation, institutional ownership and earnings. Valuation & Earnings This table compares Deutsche Post and Osterreichische Posts top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Get Deutsche Post alerts: Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Deutsche Post $99.52 billion 0.61 $5.65 billion $4.20 11.75 Osterreichische Post N/A N/A N/A $1.74 21.95 Deutsche Post has higher revenue and earnings than Osterreichische Post. Deutsche Post is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Osterreichische Post, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. Analyst Ratings Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Deutsche Post 1 5 2 0 2.13 Osterreichische Post 0 0 0 0 N/A This is a breakdown of recent ratings and recommmendations for Deutsche Post and Osterreichische Post, as provided by MarketBeat.com. Deutsche Post currently has a consensus price target of $40.00, suggesting a potential downside of 18.91%. Given Deutsche Posts higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe Deutsche Post is more favorable than Osterreichische Post. Profitability This table compares Deutsche Post and Osterreichische Posts net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Deutsche Post 5.32% 20.75% 7.21% Osterreichische Post N/A N/A N/A Insider and Institutional Ownership 17.6% of Osterreichische Post shares are owned by institutional investors. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term. Dividends Deutsche Post pays an annual dividend of $1.44 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.9%. Osterreichische Post pays an annual dividend of $1.46 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.8%. Deutsche Post pays out 34.3% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Osterreichische Post pays out 84.1% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Summary Deutsche Post beats Osterreichische Post on 8 of the 11 factors compared between the two stocks. About Deutsche Post (Get Free Report) Deutsche Post AG operates as a mail and logistics company in Germany, rest of Europe, the Americas, the Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa. The company operates through five segments: Express; Global Forwarding, Freight; Supply Chain; eCommerce Solutions; and Post & Parcel Germany. The Express segment offers time-definite courier and express services to business and private customers. The Global Forwarding, Freight segment provides air, ocean, and overland freight forwarding services; and offers multimodal and sector-specific solutions. This segment's business model is based on brokering transport services between customers and freight carriers. The Supply Chain segment delivers customized supply chain solutions to its customers based on modular components, including warehousing and transport services; and value-added services, such as e-fulfilment, omnichannel solutions and returns management, lead logistics partner, real estate solutions, service logistics, and packaging solutions for various industrial sectors. The eCommerce Solutions segment provides parcel delivery and cross-border non-time definite international services. The Post & Parcel Germany segment transports and delivers mail communication, parcels, physical and hybrid letters, and special products for the delivery of goods; and offers additional services, such as registered mail, cash on delivery, and insured items. Deutsche Post AG was founded in 1490 and is headquartered in Bonn, Germany. About Osterreichische Post (Get Free Report) Osterreichische Post AG, together with its subsidiaries, provides postal and parcel services in Austria, Turkiye, Germany, and internationally. It operates in three divisions: Mail, Parcel & Logistics, and Retail & Bank. The Mail division engages in the distribution, collection, sorting, and delivery of letters and document shipments, addressed and unaddressed direct mail, and newspapers and magazines, as well as online services, such as e-letter and cross-media solutions; and physical and digital services in customer communications and document processing. The Parcel & Logistics division offers solutions for parcel and express mail items; and value-added services, including food delivery, warehousing, order picking, returns management, and web shop logistics and infrastructure, as well as cash transportation services. The Retail & Bank division is involved in the provision of telecommunication products and merchandise; postal, financial, and payment transaction services; and self-service solutions, such as pick-up and drop-off stations at various locations. The company is headquartered in Vienna, Austria. Oesterreichische Post AG is a subsidiary of Osterreichische Beteiligungs AG. Receive News & Ratings for Deutsche Post Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Deutsche Post and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Gradient Investments LLC lowered its stake in Phillips 66 (NYSE:PSX Free Report) by 8.1% during the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 8,344 shares of the oil and gas companys stock after selling 734 shares during the period. Gradient Investments LLCs holdings in Phillips 66 were worth $796,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). A number of other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of PSX. CWA Asset Management Group LLC raised its position in shares of Phillips 66 by 16.2% during the 1st quarter. CWA Asset Management Group LLC now owns 5,750 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $583,000 after acquiring an additional 802 shares in the last quarter. Cypress Capital Group raised its position in shares of Phillips 66 by 12.8% during the 1st quarter. Cypress Capital Group now owns 63,778 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $6,466,000 after acquiring an additional 7,245 shares in the last quarter. Equitable Trust Co. raised its position in shares of Phillips 66 by 185.7% during the 4th quarter. Equitable Trust Co. now owns 16,100 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $1,676,000 after acquiring an additional 10,464 shares in the last quarter. Centric Wealth Management raised its position in shares of Phillips 66 by 9.6% during the 1st quarter. Centric Wealth Management now owns 21,931 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $2,223,000 after acquiring an additional 1,914 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS raised its position in shares of Phillips 66 by 13.5% during the 4th quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 79,891 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $8,315,000 after acquiring an additional 9,528 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 71.83% of the companys stock. Get Phillips 66 alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes PSX has been the topic of several research analyst reports. Bank of America lowered Phillips 66 from a buy rating to a neutral rating and raised their target price for the stock from $132.00 to $141.00 in a research report on Tuesday, August 15th. Morgan Stanley reissued an equal weight rating and set a $125.00 target price on shares of Phillips 66 in a research report on Wednesday, July 19th. Argus raised their target price on Phillips 66 from $125.00 to $134.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Monday, August 14th. Mizuho raised their price target on Phillips 66 from $127.00 to $131.00 in a research note on Monday. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group raised their price target on Phillips 66 from $125.00 to $141.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Friday, September 1st. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $129.73. Insider Activity In other news, EVP Timothy D. Roberts sold 127,578 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, August 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $116.68, for a total value of $14,885,801.04. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 77,313 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $9,020,880.84. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. In related news, EVP Brian Mandell sold 3,000 shares of Phillips 66 stock in a transaction on Monday, August 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $111.84, for a total transaction of $335,520.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 46,451 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,195,079.84. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, EVP Timothy D. Roberts sold 127,578 shares of Phillips 66 stock in a transaction on Friday, August 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $116.68, for a total value of $14,885,801.04. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 77,313 shares of the companys stock, valued at $9,020,880.84. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 360,648 shares of company stock valued at $41,396,371 in the last three months. 4.57% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Phillips 66 Trading Down 1.6 % Shares of PSX stock opened at $121.03 on Monday. The businesss 50 day moving average is $111.93 and its two-hundred day moving average is $102.58. Phillips 66 has a twelve month low of $74.02 and a twelve month high of $125.19. The company has a market capitalization of $53.89 billion, a P/E ratio of 5.25, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.42 and a beta of 1.37. The company has a current ratio of 1.33, a quick ratio of 0.90 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.61. Phillips 66 (NYSE:PSX Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, August 2nd. The oil and gas company reported $3.87 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.54 by $0.33. Phillips 66 had a return on equity of 26.25% and a net margin of 6.81%. The company had revenue of $35.74 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $32.13 billion. During the same period last year, the business posted $6.77 EPS. Equities analysts forecast that Phillips 66 will post 15.63 EPS for the current year. Phillips 66 Dividend Announcement The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, September 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, August 18th were issued a $1.05 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, August 17th. This represents a $4.20 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.47%. Phillips 66s dividend payout ratio is currently 18.22%. Phillips 66 Company Profile (Free Report) Phillips 66 operates as an energy manufacturing and logistics company in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Midstream, Chemicals, Refining, and Marketing and Specialties (M&S). The Midstream segment transports crude oil and other feedstocks; delivers refined petroleum products to market; provides terminaling and storage services for crude oil and refined petroleum products; transports, stores, fractionates, exports, and markets natural gas liquids; provides other fee-based processing services; and gathers, processes, transports, and markets natural gas. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Phillips 66 Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Phillips 66 and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. (NYSE:MYTE Free Report) had its price objective raised by UBS Group from $4.60 to $5.20 in a research note issued to investors on Friday, Benzinga reports. They currently have a buy rating on the stock. Several other research analysts have also recently weighed in on the stock. Bank of America dropped their price objective on shares of MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. from $14.00 to $8.00 in a research report on Thursday, June 29th. 500.com reiterated a reiterates rating on shares of MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. in a research report on Monday, June 26th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group lowered shares of MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. from a buy rating to a hold rating and decreased their price target for the company from $19.00 to $4.00 in a report on Wednesday, June 14th. Five analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $6.31. Get MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. alerts: Get Our Latest Analysis on MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. Stock Down 4.3 % Institutional Inflows and Outflows Shares of MYTE opened at $3.96 on Friday. The company has a market capitalization of $336.12 million, a P/E ratio of -22.00 and a beta of 1.08. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.11, a current ratio of 2.84 and a quick ratio of 0.45. MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. has a one year low of $3.02 and a one year high of $13.00. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $3.72 and its 200-day simple moving average is $4.69. Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Sylebra Capital Ltd raised its holdings in MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. by 0.5% in the 1st quarter. Sylebra Capital Ltd now owns 3,907,220 shares of the companys stock valued at $27,468,000 after acquiring an additional 18,412 shares during the period. TimesSquare Capital Management LLC raised its holdings in MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. by 19.8% in the 1st quarter. TimesSquare Capital Management LLC now owns 1,586,390 shares of the companys stock valued at $11,152,000 after acquiring an additional 261,840 shares during the period. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD raised its holdings in MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. by 0.4% in the 2nd quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 1,272,204 shares of the companys stock valued at $12,569,000 after acquiring an additional 5,500 shares during the period. Invesco Ltd. raised its holdings in MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. by 0.3% in the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 1,185,003 shares of the companys stock valued at $14,492,000 after acquiring an additional 3,444 shares during the period. Finally, Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC raised its holdings in MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. by 3.6% in the 1st quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 734,760 shares of the companys stock valued at $5,165,000 after acquiring an additional 25,644 shares during the period. 12.23% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. Company Profile (Get Free Report) MYT Netherlands Parent B.V., through its subsidiary, Mytheresa Group GmbH, operates a luxury e-commerce platform for fashion consumers in Germany, the United States, rest of Europe, and internationally. It offers womenswear, menswear, kids wear, and lifestyle products. The company sells clothes, bags, shoes, accessories, and fine jewelry through online and retail stores. Read More Receive News & Ratings for MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. With the arrival of a new administration at the federal government level, new developments and intrigues appear to spring up from opportunistic quarters in the attempts to help sway and/or blackmail the incoming administration into undertaking actions that may not be taking in the interest of the country and its people but in the interest of blackmailers and dirty business operators. This is as a recent investigative report by an online medium [WikkiTimes] titled INVESTIGATION: Inside Secret Details of How Chinese-allied Miners Bribed Dogo Gide Terror Group to Access Mining Sites in Niger State exhibited clear attempt at blackmailing the new democratically elected administrations through a muddled attempt at casting aspersions at the legitimacy of legal commercial activities of a foreign investor from China operating within the communities of Niger and Kaduna State. The kernel of the 2294 word investigative report points to the singular claim that the foreign investor had paid and continues to pay protection monies to an alleged terrorist group in order to enable for a safe and secure operation in Kurebe and other surrounding villages in Shiroro local government area in Niger State. The claim was based solely on interviews with members community who have been discovered to be disgruntled former staffs of the China based company, Min Xin. The essence of the claim is that the Chinese firm is indirectly funding terrorism in Nigeria a claim with weighty implications. However cursory investigation conducted by 247ureports.com through discussions with a consortium of sources within the affected communities confirm that Wikki Times merely conducted interviews with selected individuals who were sponsored and possibly coerced to speak damnable and evil things about Ming Xin, to the extent of linking the lawful activities of the company with terrorist. It failed to present hard and/or supporting evidence to show Min Xins involvement with aiding terror activities in the affected areas. Interestingly, Ming Xin was attacked by the said terrorist recently resulting in the death of seven [7] officers from the Nigeria Civil Defense and six [6] staff members of Min Xin. One of the drivers at Min Xin was kidnapped and remains in the custody of the terrorist till date. The attack occurred on January 9, 2023 in Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State, a neighboring community to the mining site [Shiroro] inside Niger State. Min Xin was compelled to exit the mining site as a result of the attack. One of the religious leaders who spoke to 247ureports.com wondered how would they [Min Xin] have any link with the bandits and still be victims of attacks like this? The cleric pointed to mischief makers as the chief culprits to this evil allegation. Our community is at peace with the mining company. We are happy with their operations. We are also aware of the activities of some hoodlums who want to extort the mining company and have decided to use blackmail to achieve their aim. Alhaji Haruna Kurebe and Alhaji Nasiru Kurebe who are notable leaders within the Kurebe community also shared their displeasure at the ill feted blackmail attempt. They expressed the communitys solidarity and support to the company. They indicated that the Chinese company had high reputation among the local people. We dont have any issues with this company. We dont believe the farce that they are paying monies to terrorists. Its a bad lie. Similarly, Umar Adamu another leader within the community who has firsthand knowledge of the goings on within the minefields expressed shock that Ming Xin company could be linked to terrorism because the only concern of Kurebe Community is for development to take place in the area. He dismissed the allegation by the Wikki Times noting that Min Xin remains a reputable company that operates lawfully in the Kaduna/Niger communities. Worthy of note is that the Wikki Times report failed to point to any illegality on the part of the commercial activities engaged by the Chinese firm. Instead, it selectively danced around the legal status of the Chinese firm including the licenses and certificates of operations issued by appropriate authorities of the Nigerian government. According to Umar Adamu, Ming Xin has been a reputable mining company authorized by law to operate under the existing regulations in section 10 of the NMMA, 2007- Rights of a mining lease holder in respect of site (ML45933) at Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger state. The permission was granted by the ministry of Mines and steel Development. Ming Xin has never been found wanting in the payment of its lawful dues. This can be attested by the Kaduna state Mining Development company in respect of its commitment fee of lithium Exploration License 30477EL in Chikum and Shiroro of Kaduna and Niger states. See document below: The above documents and records provide evidence that Min Xin Mining company operates within the confines of the law of Nigeria. Ming Xin has a file in the Ministry of homeland security in Niger State, a file in the police, the DSS, civil defense with all their record of operation. Their operations are not hidden from the security architecture. Available document show the Chinese mining firm to have been in open and constant communication with Nigerias security agencies on the issue of combating insecurity and banditry in the affected areas. The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) is the only statutory body that regulates all nurses and midwives in Nigeria. Recently, there have been some cases of malpractices among some nurses under the watch of NMCN and we expected the leadership of NMCN to issue official statements to put the records straight but that has not been possible. For not officially dissociating themselves from such inter-professional malpractices, it means that the NMCN may be in full support of herembattled members that we are going to discuss their matters below, because what is not expressly prohibited is impliedly accepted. First, it was reported that sometime in April 2022, a 39-year-old nurse, one Lawrence Omatule , carried out myomectomy (surgical removal of the fibroid ) on a patient, one Fatimoh Isa, at the Feloban Alpha Convalescent Home, Mafoluku, Oshodi, Lagos State, and immediately after the surgery the patient died . Nurse Lawrence Omatule was immediately arrested and later arraigned before a Yaba Chief Magistrates Court, Lagos State in June 2022 on two-count charges of criminal conspiracy to commit murder and murder which contravene sections 221 and 223 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.He was immediately remanded at IkoyiCorrectional center pending a legal advice from the Lagos state DPP. However, there was a rumour then that nurse Lawrence Omatulewas a member of the Lagos state University Teaching Hospitals (LASUTH ) staff ,the hospital management ,unlike the current NMCN leadership, came out immediately to disabuse the minds of the people and to set the records straight . The official statement from LASUTH management read, The attention of the management of Lagos State University Teaching Hospital has been drawn to a report in todays PUNCH Newspaper, Wednesday, April 13, 2022; where the nurse who allegedly carried out a fibroid surgery on one Mrs Fatimoh Isa, who subsequently died, was said to be a staff of our hospital. We wish to state categorically that after a painstaking investigation, we were unable to confirm that the said Lawrence Omatule is or was ever a staff of our hospital. We, however, have genuine information that he works in a secondary health facility on the mainland. As that was not enough, few days ago, another nurse, one MrNoah Kekere , who had been parading himself as a qualified medical doctor was in the news for allegedly harvesting the organs of the patients he illegally operated on, in his hospital at Yanshanu, Nasarawa Gwong community of JosNorth local government area, Plateau state . A great appreciation goes to the Plateau state chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) that immediately swung into action and discovered that the said Mr Noah Kekere was not a qualified medical doctor and did not have any certificate registrable with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), the only statutory body that regulates the practice of Medicine, dentistry and alternative medicine in Nigeria. Information at my disposal has it that Mr Noah Kekere has the following certificates to his credit: 1. School of Nursing Certificate 2. BSc Economics 3. MSc Economics 4. MPH ( Msc in Public Health) 5. PhD (in Public Health) Owing to the information above, Mr kekere is a practisingnurse and does not have any certificate that qualifies him to operate on any patient let alone talking about if he has harvested any organ his patients or not .The ball is now on the court of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria to issue an official statement if nurse Noah Kekere and nurse Lawrence Omatule, are their registered members and if the Act establishing NMCN has been amended so that their members can now carry out surgical procedures. This is important because NMA saw this coming and had been warning the Nigerian public and the government but no one listened. Section 23 of the Act establishing NMCN clearly states the duties of a nurse thus: (1) A nurse or midwife registered under this Act shall be entitled to carry out nursing or midwifery care as provided for in the training curriculum prescribed and approved by the Council. (2) Any registered nurse or midwife shall be entitled to set up a private nursing or maternity home if- (a) he has spent at least five years (as in other professions) in a recognised health establishment as a registered nurse or midwife after registration with the Council; (b) he has complied with all the conditions laid down by the Ministry of Health of the State concerned for the establishment of such maternity home; and (c) he has demonstrated unequivocally that there is prompt access to a practising obstetrician and gynaecologist or an experienced medical practitioner at all times, who has legal responsibility for attending to any emergencies. Furthermore, S.23 (2C) of the NMCN Act quoted supra is clear that a nurse has limitations in his/her training hence must have a specialist doctor to refer his/her patients in cases of emergencies not to talk of a nurse operating on any patient. We should not forget that few years back, all the professionals in the health sector except the medical doctors , under the aegis of JOHESU (Joint Health Sector Unions) went to court for the court to declare them medically qualified . People like us published articles on the origin of the phrase medically qualified and argued that medical doctors were the only professionals that were medically qualified as the phrase medically qualified originated in the UK to differentiate between medical doctors and PhD holders . Thank God our court gave a fair judgment that it is only medical doctors that are medically qualified. The judiciary saved us from embarrassing moments where nurses or others professionals in the health sector with PhD in any course outside MBBS(Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery) would be addressed as medical doctors. Imagine a scenario where the judiciary had declared that every professional in the health sector was medically qualified, today nurse Noah Kekere would argue that he was also a medical doctorbecause PhD would give him the title of a doctor while the court judgment would give him the title of being medically qualified. This is another lesson to the National Universities Commission (NUC ) who recently has decided to be upgrading all courses in the health sector such that we now have Doctor of Pharmacy ; Doctor of Physiotherapy et cetera . My people say that it is not using your bowl to supply water to the monkey that is the issue; the consideration should be on how to recover your bowl after such a supply. Officials of NUC can search their consciences and ask pertinent questions like; now that everybody in the health sector parades themselves as medical doctors to the extent of carrying out surgeries they were not qualified to carry out ,what would happen when the graduates of these Doctor of Pharmacy ,Doctor of Physiotherapy ,Doctor of Nursing ,Doctor of Medical Laboratory Sciences ,Doctor of Hospital gatemen et ceterasaturate our health sector . I need not to tell the officials of NUC that by then, right from the gates in our public hospitals the name tags on each member of the hospital staff would bear the title of Doctor this and that, creating more confusions to the already confused Nigerian patients, because no one in the health seems to value or be proud of his natural calling/profession except that title doctor. Dr Paul John writes from PortHarcourt - [email protected], 08083658038 23 states in Nigeria grew bilateral loans by 64.26 per cent in six months to $462.81m as of the end of June, 2023. Most loans on record were taken from China, India, France and other countries. The Central Bank of Nigeria, as at June 2023, instructed Deposit Money Banks to remove the rate cap on the naira at the official Investors and Exporters Window of the foreign exchange market. As a result, the naira fell from 471/$ to 750/$ as of the end of June 2023, and had continued to fall. The increase in bilateral loans indicated a growing appetite for this type of loans by state governors. In the external debt data disclosed by the Debt Management Office, 23 states increased their borrowing from China (Exim Bank of China), India, France (Agence Francaise Development), Japan International Cooperation Agency, and Germany (Kreditanstalt Fur Wiederaufbua). In 2018, a loan worth $475m was secured by Nigeria from France for the development of projects in Kano, Lagos, and Ogun states, signed by the then Minister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Agence Francaise Development, Mr Rey Rioux. The loan breakdown included a $200m loan facility grant to Lagos for the execution of transport projects by AFD, another $200m loan for land degradation project in Ogun State, and $75m for the execution of water projects in Kano State. By Ko Hirano, KYODO NEWS - Sep 18, 2023 - 09:31 | All, Japan, World Japan should take China to the World Trade Organization over Beijing's decision to ban imports of Japanese fishery products following the release of treated radioactive water from the crippled Fukushima nuclear power plant, a former senior U.N. official believes. Japan could file a complaint with the WTO as a "tactical move" to induce China to end the punitive action Tokyo says is not based on scientific grounds, argues Kiyotaka Akasaka, a former undersecretary general for communications and public information. Akasaka also suggests Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and new Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa further argue the safety of the water discharge from the Fukushima Daiichi plant in northeastern Japan during a series of U.N. General Assembly meetings this week in New York to broaden international understanding. "Even after lodging a formal complaint with the Geneva-based U.N. trade watchdog, Tokyo can still negotiate with Beijing because bilateral talks constitute the basis of the WTO dispute settlement mechanism," he said in a recent interview. Akasaka handled issues involving the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, the precursor of the WTO, including a stint to the then-GATT Secretariat in Geneva, when he served at the Japanese Foreign Ministry. "Some people say bringing the case to the WTO could provoke Beijing and complicate the issue. But I believe Japan can do it as a tactical move to put pressure on China," he said. "I don't think China wants to dispute the issue with Japan at the WTO." "Japan should continue negotiations with China bilaterally and use multilateral platforms such as the WTO to let Beijing better understand how isolated the country is on this issue, which we saw during Association of Southeast Asian Nations-related summits in Jakarta and the Group of 20 summit in New Delhi earlier this month," Akasaka said. Kishida may have a chance to address the issue directly with Chinese President Xi Jinping if they can arrange a meeting on the sidelines of an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit slated for November in San Francisco. Bilateral relations soured sharply after China imposed the ban following the first release into the Pacific Ocean on Aug. 24 by Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc., operator of the Fukushima plant, of what Beijing labels "nuclear-contaminated water." China took the measure even after the International Atomic Energy Agency concluded in July, after a two-year safety review, that the treated water discharge "will have a negligible radiological impact on people and the environment." The amount of tritium, a radioactive material contained in the treated water to be released annually from the Fukushima plant, is about one-tenth of the amount of tritium discharged from Qinshan Nuclear Power Plant in China, according to the Japanese government. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said last week the independent sampling and monitoring from the Vienna-based U.N. nuclear watchdog has confirmed tritium levels in water discharged from the Fukushima plant were below Japan's limit, and that the IAEA will continue to monitor the seawater. However, the Chinese Foreign Ministry dismissed the IAEA's monitoring as being "neither international nor independent," and said, "Japan should immediately stop shifting the risks of nuclear pollution to the whole world." Akasaka, currently president of the Nippon Communications Foundation, operator of the nippon.com multilingual information service about Japan, questioned Beijing's disregard for the authority of the IAEA. "China says that as a permanent member of the Security Council, it attaches great importance to the United Nations. If that is true, Beijing must not undermine the authority of the U.N. system, but what the country is doing is totally the opposite," he said. "I wonder what would happen if accidents occurred at nuclear power plants in China," Akasaka said. "Wouldn't Beijing consult with the IAEA and seek the agency's authorization for safety (reasons)?" Related coverage: China steps up scrutiny of Japanese after Fukushima water decision China checks seawater loaded on Japan ships amid row over Fukushima As a provider of clean energy solutions, Asiko Group has unveiled 300 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas and compressed natural gas in Edo State. According to a statement on Sunday, the firm disclosed that the project located at Utesi, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of the state, aligned with the Federal Governments priority objective to attain five million MT of LPG consumption by 2023. It stated that the firm had continued to contribute to the economic development of the country with its sterling efforts to ensure in-country utilisation and deepening of gas penetration in the nation. While speaking at the official commissioning of the gas depot, the Chairman of the Asiko Group, Alex Ogedegbe, noted the enormous gas potential in Nigeria, and the LPG/CNG depot was designed to provide the needed energy solution to Nigeria and beyond. According to him, Today, we are excited to launch our 300MT LPG and CNG depot. The multi-product gas depot, promises to improve gas availability and distribution in the region. The LPG/CNG depot is poised to become a hub for a wide range of gas products. Under its licensing agreement, the depot is authorised to store propane, LPG, CNG, and liquefied natural gas. Currently, it stores LPG and CNG, with plans for future development to enable the storage of LNG in the near future. On a particular day in the month of January, 2020, former Governor of Rivers State, Mr. Nyesom Wike, now the minister of the FCT, ostensibly woke up to a bad day. While attending a quarterly meeting with traditional rulers in the State, he was captured in a video that showed him letting down his guard, losing his cool and going pedestrian. To be fair, this was not the first time the former governor was exposing his soft underbelly; he has been angry before the ugly incident been recalled in this context, railing against his real and perceived enemies, swearing and threatening to deal with them at an appropriate time. In a manner that was reminiscent of a meeting between a headmaster of old and his pupils, Wike ordered the traditional rulers to stand with their staff of office, to identify the majority that had attended the session with a walking stick instead of staff! Apparently confirming his doubts, he gave a stern warning to the majority who left the staff at the palace. Unarguably irked by the monarchs whom he visibly considered to be non-compliant, he cheekily talked down on them thus: I cannot be addressing you (traditional rulers) when some of you are using an ordinary walking stick to come here. Since you dont want to use your staff in the office, I will give it to other people. You dont know the authority it carries Sometimes you just want something without knowing the implication of it. Ostensibly unable to contain himself, he seemingly went wild, switched to uncouth and vituperated language, shouted and presumably talked down to a royal father who he said was his errand boy in his undergraduate days. He was visibly piqued, a sign that exposed his irritability, and which was no doubt a veritable shortcoming for a leader who at the time held the highest office in the State. While dressing down the monarch whom he alleged used to be his errand boy, he likened his cap, which was invariably a royal accoutrement, to that of Uthman Dan Fodio thereby making other monarchs presence at the royal event to laugh and giggle. The monarchs sin was that he nodded in agreement to Wikes decision to check the increase in number of Royal Highnesses that have been undermining their royal disposition. In reaction to his outburst and sheer disrespect of the traditional ruler, not a few commentators on social mediaplatforms vehemently upbraided the governor for ostensibly being power drunk. Given the foregoing humiliating scenario, anyone that is not abreast with the prevailing relationship between Nigerias political leaders, particularly Governors; and the traditional rulers, may think Wike is alone in the world of belittling crowned monarchs. Never, it is far from the truth as not a few Nigerians have witnessed how royal fatherswere publicly humiliated by politicians in the past, and thus left them to be burlesqued by young people who see them as representing an archaic institution. In fact, Nigerians, particularly those of Northern extraction, will never forget the brutal dethronement of the Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II by the then state governor, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, who invoked his constitutional powers to depose the emir after accusing him of "insubordination". Though, the number of monarchs in multi-ethnic Nigeria is no doubt on the high side as virtually every community; no matter how small it is, is ruled by a traditional leader, and given the fusion of modern system of government and traditional system of government, not a few traditional rulers are often at loggerheads with the politicians who have constitutional authority to either whittle down their power and authority or out rightly dethrone them. For instance, in 2016, barely a week left to serve out his two-term tenure as the Governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole suspended King Zaiki Edenojie II of Uromi Kingdom for one year in addition to losing his rights and privileges that he had hitherto exercised and also lose a share of the five percent revenue accruing to the local council. It will be recalled in this context that the Edo State Government announced the kings suspension for failing to apologise within the stipulated period to a woman, Betty Okoeber, whom he allegedly assaulted on September 28, among other infractions. However it was alleged that the monarch was humiliated by the former governor for tacitly supporting the People Democratic Party (PDP) on Election Day to which he denied. In a similar vein, the former Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, in 2020 reportedly placed a one-year suspension on 12 traditional rulers in the state who went on a trip to Abuja with oil magnate, Prince Arthur Eze, to see former President Muhammad Buhari. What was their collective offence? The monarchs were alleged to have traveled with Eze to report the governor to the president over his non-conduct of local government elections in the state among other complaints. The then Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Mr. Greg Obi, listed the affected traditional rulers as follows: Igwe Alex Edozieuno of Mkpunando; Igwe Mark Anthony Okonkwo of Alor; Igwe Chukuwma Bob Vincent Orji of Ezinifite, and Igwe G.B.C Mbakwe of Abacha. Others were Igwe Chijioke Nwankwo of Nawfia; Igwe NkeliNelly of Igbariam; Igwe Anthony Onyekwere of Owelle; Igwe A. N Onwuneme of Ikenga; Igwe Simon IkechukwuChidubem of Umumbo; Igwe S. O Uche of Ezira; Igwe Dr. Emeka Ilouno of Ifitedunu, and Igwe Peter IkegbunemUdoji of Eziagulu Otu. The suspension according to him through a circular stated that The suspended Igwes are not to parade themselves as traditional rulers, and should desist from discharging their functions as traditional rulers in their communities or anywhere within the state and beyond with immediate effect. Punitive enough, a portion of the circular also revoked their membership of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council and any appointment they may be holding in government committees until the suspension is lifted, and added that the suspension may be lifted at the end of one year, renewed or upgraded in the intervening period depending on the governments review of the conduct of the errant royal fathers. Surprisingly, while not a few connoisseurs of tradition and culture have in the last few years been worried about the deepening level of disrespect being accorded to traditional leaders, and desecration of traditional institutions, mostly by politicians, former President Olusegun Obasanjo was reported to have tongue-lashed the traditional rulers from Oke-Ogun, Ibadan, Oyo and Ibarapa, and termed their effrontery as disrespect to constituted authority, because they failed to stand up when the governor, Seyi Makindeand himself in turn climbed the rostrum for their addresses. The incident was said to have happened at the commissioning of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, LAUTECHs College of Agricultural Science and Renewable Natural Resources, Iseyin, on Friday.September 15, 2023. The former president was reported to have said, Wherever a governor or president is sitting, traditional rulers must show them respect. However, the elder statesmans action drew the ire of at least one prominent Oba in the South-West, Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdurosheed Akanbi, who described the incident as condemnable, and an intentional desecrastion of the traditional institutions, and demanded unreserved apology from the ex-president. At this juncture, it is expedient to confess that the essence of expressing this view on this news platform is to urge our political leaders to always respect traditional leaders as our forefathers were wont to do during their earthly journey. We should not allow modernity to devalue our god-gifted system of government even as a proverb in Igbanke says in Ika dialect that Wamu Eze Efe Wa KpaNwanta which interpretatively mean, A king is worshipped from birth, and he is never seen to be a child. The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) have expressed readiness to probe the averted plane crash involving Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State. It was learnt that the governor was, last week, scheduled to fly from Lagos to Abuja on his elder brother, Dr Deji Adelekes private jet, but the pilot had to call it off after discovering fault in the engine a minute just as it began taxing. The Governor's spokesperson, however, alleged sabotage. Reacting in a Sunday statement, the NCAA Director General, Capt Musa Nuhu expressed concern over the incident, assuring that a probe into the matter is underway. Although the operator of the aircraft submitted the report through the new web-based National Aviation Safety Reporting System, SMS Pro, deployed by NCAA in collaboration with Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) in compliance with the provisions of ICAO mandated State Safety Programme and the Civil Aviation Act 2022, the Sunday statement said, adding that a full-blown investigation of the incident has since commenced. While expressing relief that the incident ended without any harm, the agency boss assured that the outcome of NCAAs investigation and recommendations will be implemented in line with Nig. CARS and global best practices, the statement added. NCAA assures the traveling public that it will double its efforts in collaboration with NSIB to maintain and improve upon the high safety aviation standards set in the country over the past decade. The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has called on government and stakeholders in the education sector in Nigeria to address the leaning crisis in the country. UNICEF Education Specialist, Yetunde Oluwatosin made the call during a 2-day media dialogue on Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) held in Benin City, Edo state. The media dialogue was facilitated by UNICEF in collaboration of the Lagos State Directorate of National Orientation Agency (NOA). Quoting data from National Bureau of Statistics (2021) and the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS), Oluwatosin said the learning crises in Nigeria is stalling the nation's development. Oluwatosin said 3 out of 4 children in Nigeria cannot read with meaning or solve simple mathematics problems. She said only 73 per cent of Nigerian youth are literate and that only 7 per cent have ICT skills needed for working and living in a digital economy Oluwatosin said as part of moves to address the situation, UNICEF was able to reach over 1.8 M children with learning materials between 2018-2022. She said efforts are on top gear to tackle the challenge headlong. According to her "We aim to reach another 4.8 M by 2027, primarily in the North, and to ensure Teaching and Learning Materials (TLMs) are curriculum-aligned, high quality, and inclusive." Oluwatosin said UNICEF is leveraging its ongoing engagement of community-based organizations such a High-level Women's Advocates, Mothers' Associations, traditional and religious leaders, and youth including the He-For-She and Girls-for-Girls to amplify national messages at the local level towards addressing the challenge of learning crisis. Also speaking, the Executive Chairperson of Edo State Universal Basic Education Board, Mrs Eyitayo Salami said the current administration in the state is committed to address Learning Poverty and Out-of-School-Children challenges. She said the Edo state government through its accelerator program came up with a concept known as Edo best and it's yielding results as school enrolment is on the increase and the students are really leaning and gaining knowledge. Some of the students of Samuel Ogbemudia Girls College in Benin, Edo state Jane Onyilamu and Freda Ogierhiakhi said they have improved in the academic activities beause of the teaching methods adopted by their teachers. The Principal of Samuel Ogbemudia Girls College, Mrs Josephine Igbinedu said the state government provided enabling learning environment and that the teachers were monitored to ensure that they teach the students adequately. She added that the School Based Management Committee (SBMC) is also collaborating with the school management to ensure efficiency while Parents/Teachers Conference also serves as an avenue to evaluate performance of the children and address any matter arising. UNICEF Communication Officer, Blessing Ejiofor said all hands must be on deck to ensure that children attend schools, learn and become useful for themselves and the society when they grow up. Residents of Sagamu, in Sagamu local government area of Ogun State, have been thrown in palpable panic as over 20 young men were reportedly killed in a supremacy battle involving members of Eiye and Aiye confraternities. According to reports, the supremacy battle started on Friday, and claimed the lives of about 20 young boys, including secondary school pupils. A resident of Sagamu, who spoke on condition of anonymity, lamented that the town has been on edge since Friday as people go about in fear, so as not to be victims of stray bullets from the cultists. The source listed Agbowa behind Ewusi Palace, Makun, Ijagba, Ajaka, Isale Oko and Sabo as centre of the mindless killings in the ancient town. The source said, those boys have started killing themselves since Friday. As we speak, they must have killed about 20 people but many of these victims were innocent.For instance, three secondary schools students who had gone to cut their hairs on Sunday in preparation for the school resumption today, Monday were gunned down around Sabo. The target was actually the owner of the barbing saloon, but when he wasnt found there, the cultists decided to kill those that were found in the shop. About four people were also killed on Ode Lemo road under the same circumstances. The target of the cultists was also not around when they came calling in the middle of the night, but they killed the four people they met in his room. It is terrible and no one can really say this is why they are fighting. Everyone is tired of this unnecessary and useless bloodshed and that is why we desire that when these boys are caught, they should not allow them to be back to town after three months. The law should be more hard on them and it is about time the Sagamu community with the support of the government take more decisive actions over these criminals. Its a menace that is giving Sagamu a bad name. One thing I have also realised is that we now have so much of drugs in the town. You will always see these boys in different joints and corners with drugs, I think government should look towards that direction too because once you have taken drugs you can do whatever you like. Meanwhile, reacting to the cult killings in Sagamu on his X handle, the Nigeria Police Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, said the situation goes beyond the deployment of an anti-cultism squad only, stressing that all hands must be on deck. He said, Sagamu case goes beyond the mere anti cultism squad. The elders know how to handle them. The politicians know what to do. I was in their midst in Sagamu between 2006 and 2008. But no single cult clash before I left in 2008. I worked then with the late Akarigbo, Oba Michael Sonariwo and others. The Force PRO added that the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Abiodun Alamutu, should look inward and take action on the report by some residents that the cultists are well known to security agents. I will engage the CP on this. Whoever is dealing with cultists and criminals must not compromise. That person must stand firm, and operate against all odds. Adejobi added, Most of those who cause this wahala (problem) in Sagamu are not even Sagamites. At times, they come from Ijebu Ode or Ago Iwoye to strike and move. In some cases, they come as far as Edo State. Its a problem that the whole system must tackle, not only the security forces. It requires multi-track diplomacy. We will discuss this with the CP and take the necessary steps. In Sagamu, almost every young one is a cultist. Okada riders, artisans, etc. are into cultism even more than students, and I think the whole town and Remoland, in general, should take action on it. I think the community should rise up to it. They should have an urgent meeting with the heads of all the quarters in Sagamu with the police and vigilante group to address this matter. Sagamites know and understand what I am saying here. I worked in sagamu for almost 2 years. When contacted, the spokesperson of the Ogun State Police Command, SP Omolola Odutola said the number of those killed wasnt up to 20, but did not state the actual figures. The Nigerian Police Force has summoned two police Constables who were recently in a viral video escorting a Student Union president in Adamawa State. It could be recalled that a video emerged last week where men of the Police Force were seen escorting the vehicle of a Students Union president in Adamawa State University. Describing the officers actions as unacceptable and unprofessional conduct in a statement released on Monday, the Force disclosed that the officers have been summoned for appropriate disciplinary actions. It was learnt that the officers, who were attached to Jimeta Divisional Police Command, were deployed to the school to maintain peace and security during the convention and electoral process organized by the National Union of Adamawa State Students (NUADSS) on 4th and 5th of September, 2023. The statement read, Following a recent incident involving two Constables escorting a Student Union president in Adamawa State, their actions were unacceptable and do not represent the values of our Force. The officers, who are attached to Jimeta Divisional Police Command, along with their superiors, have been summoned to the Force Headquarters for appropriate action. It's important to note that they were deployed to maintain peace and security during the convention and electoral process organized by the National Union of Adamawa State Students (NUADSS) on 4th and 5th of September, 2023. However their actions were not in line with the purpose for which they were deployed. They have both been referred to the Force Provost for further disciplinary actions. We are committed to maintaining professionalism and upholding the dignity of the Nigeria Police Force. Aid arrives as Libya copes with flooding aftermath DERNA: A week after a wall of water rushed through the Libyan city of Derna, sweeping thousands to their deaths, the focus turned yesterday (Sept 17) to caring for survivors of the disaster. disastersweatherdeath By AFP Monday 18 September 2023 10:03 AM Tunisian emergency teams recover a body during relief work in Libyas devastated city of Derna. Photo: AFP Aid is now arriving in the North African country as the world mobilises to help emergency services cope with the aftermath of the deadly flood. The most recent official death toll, from the health minister of the eastern-based administration, Othman Abdeljalil, is that 3,166 people were killed. But estimates of the true number of lives lost vary widely, with the World Health Organization (WHO) saying the bodies of 3,958 people have already been recovered. Around 9,000 people are still missing after what the WHOs Libya representative Ahmed Zouiten called a disaster of epic proportions. Two dams upstream from Derna burst a week ago under the pressure of torrential rains from the hurricane-strength Storm Daniel. The dams had been built to protect the port city of 100,000 people after it was hit by significant flooding in the mid-20th century. The banks of a dried riverbed or wadi running through the city centre had been heavily built on, and last weeks torrent swept everything before it as it rushed towards the Mediterranean. A week on, bodies are still being found. A rescue crew from Maltas Civil Protection Department discovered a beach strewn with dead bodies on Friday, the Times of Malta newspaper reported. International aid is arriving from the United Nations, Europe and Middle East, offering some relief to the thousands of survivors. The aid includes essential medicines and emergency surgical supplies, as well as body bags to allow corpses to be moved. Tents, blankets, carpets, hygiene kits and food have been flown in, along with heavy machinery to help clear the debris. Questions being asked Questions are being asked as to why the disaster was not prevented, when cracks in the dams have been known about since 1998. Prosecutor general Al-Seddik Al-Sour has announced an investigation into the circumstances leading to the collapse. Like much of Libyas crumbling infrastructure, the two dams that had been built to hold back water from Derna fell into disrepair during years of neglect, conflict and division in chaos-ridden Libya. It is currently ruled by two rival administrations that have battled for power since a NATO-backed uprising toppled and killed longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011. The United Nations has launched an appeal for more than $71 million to assist the hundreds of thousands of people in need. We dont know the extent of the problem, UN aid chief Martin Griffiths said on Friday, as he called for coordination between Libyas two rival administrations - the UN-backed, internationally recognised government in Tripoli, and one based in the disaster-hit east. The scale of the devastation has prompted shows of solidarity, as volunteers in Tripoli gathered aid for the flood victims. Survivors in Derna are glad to be alive, even as they mourn the loss of loved ones. In this city, every single family has been affected, said Derna resident Mohammad al-Dawali. Seir Mohammed Seir, a member of the security forces, spoke of a three-month-old girl who lived through the tragedy in Derna. Her entire family died, she was the only one who survived. KYODO NEWS - Sep 18, 2023 - 10:09 | All, World U.S. President Joe Biden's top security adviser and China's highest-ranking diplomat held hours of "candid, substantive and constructive" talks over the weekend in Malta, their governments said Sunday, amid lingering tensions between them. The White House said that National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and Wang Yi, a Chinese Communist Party Politburo member in charge of foreign affairs, agreed to "maintain this strategic channel of communication and to pursue additional high-level engagement and consultations in key areas" between the two countries "in the coming months." Without going into detail, the White House said in a statement the representatives discussed major issues including those linked to the U.S.-China bilateral relationship, regional security affairs and Russia's war against Ukraine. It added that Sullivan noted "the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," where China has been stepping up military pressure, claiming that the self-ruled island is part of its territory. China's Foreign Ministry, meanwhile, said Wang warned the Taiwan question is "the first red line that must not be crossed" in their relationship. A senior Biden administration official said Sullivan and Wang, who doubles as foreign minister, spent about 12 hours together over two days from Saturday in the Mediterranean island nation. Their discussions took place as Biden and other world leaders started gathering in New York for high-level meetings during the annual U.N. General Assembly. Neither Chinese President Xi Jinping, who skipped the recent Group of 20 summit in India, nor Wang will take part in the forthcoming meetings, with China saying the country will be represented by Vice President Han Zheng, who holds a mostly ceremonial role. The U.S. State Department said Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet with the Chinese vice president in New York on Monday afternoon. Sullivan's direct contact with Wang, the first since May in Vienna, also came as Biden still hopes to arrange a one-on-one meeting with Xi by the end of this year, despite disagreements over numerous political and economic issues. The U.S. official, who briefed reporters on the talks on condition of anonymity, said Washington has nothing to announce when asked about the prospects of Biden bilaterally meeting with Xi in November on the sidelines of this year's summit of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in San Francisco. The official also said Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu's notable lack of public appearances did not come up during Sullivan's discussions with Wang. Since the Vienna meeting, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and other Cabinet members visited Beijing and agreed with their respective counterparts to facilitate dialogue, but the two countries have not made tangible progress in defusing tensions. Also, high-level military-to-military communication channels remain closed between the two countries following a visit in August last year by then House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan. The official, however, said during the briefing there have been some "small" or "limited" indications that the channels may begin to be gradually restored. Man charged for punching taxi driver in face PHUKET: A driver of a Mercedes-Benz has been charged for his violent reaction to a green-plate taxi cutting him off on the road just south of the Darasamut Intersection on Saturday night (Sept 17). tourismtransportSafetyviolencepolice By Eakkapop Thongtub Monday 18 September 2023 09:51 AM In response to a video of the incident posted online, Phuket Provincial Police last night (Sept 17) explained that both parties to the incident had presented themselves at Wichit Police Station yesterday to apologise to each other. The driver of the taxi, a white Pajero Sport registered in Bangkok, Teerapat Phuob, 38, originally from Kalasin, reported the incident to Wichit Police at 10:33pm Saturday night. Pol Lt Surachart Thongyai received the complaint. The altercation occurred just minutes earlier, at about 10:17pm, Mr Teerapat told police. He had two French tourists in his taxi, who he had picked up at the Naka Weekend Market. He was on his way to drop them off at Marin Plaza in Patong. As he was approaching the entrance to the Darasamut Underpass, he needed the left lane so he could turn left at the intersection and continue his journey to Patong. He saw two cars in the left lane, but needed to get into the left lane himself, and was running out of space, so he moved across in front of one of the cars, a Mercedes-Benz. Mr Teerapat explained that he did not have time to signal his intention to suddenly change lanes, but said he flashed his hazard lights to say thank you to the car behind. Mr Teerapat made it only as far as in front of Wichit Songkhram School when the Mercedes-Benz he had cut across collided into the taxi, then pulled in front of the taxi and came to an abrupt stop. As seen in the footage recorded on the taxi dash cam, which was later posted online, the driver of the Mercedes-Benz, later identified as Weerayut Srimuang, exited his car and walked up to the taxi and began verbally abusing Mr Teerapat for dangerously cutting across him just moments earlier. Weerayuts angry tirade was explicit and repeatedly used very rude words. Weerayut also repeatedly asked Teerapat if he wanted to see a gun. Teerapat himself repeatedly apologised for his driving, and pointed out that he had flashed his lights to say thank you. Weerayut said he did not see that. Dissatisfied with his discourse with Teerapat, Weerayut then punched Teerapat in the face three times then stormed off, prompting Teerapat to immediately report the incident to police. Teerapat and Weerayuth met at Wichit Police Station about 3pm yesterday to apologise to each other in front of the press for their parts in the incident. Mr Teerapat said he was shocked because this had never happened before. The tourists in the taxi were also shocked, he said. He added that he didnt want to have trouble with his work here, but said that he had to protect himself and that he has a family that he is responsible for and has to earn a living. Even though Im not a real Phuket person, Ive been here for about 20 years, he said. Weerayut apologised his actions, including punching Teerapat in the face, and explained the incident as a result of his short temper. Regardless, Wichit Police Deputy Chief Pol Lt Col Surachart Thongyai confirmed that Weerayut now faced charges of assault, drunk driving and using threats to intimidate and cause fear among others. Negotiations are still underway to determine what damages are to be paid to repair Mr Teerapats taxi. Mr Teerapat has filed a claim for damages of B100,000, which includes the income lost while the taxi is off the road undergoing repairs. PM declares new fight on drugs BANGKOK: The government has vowed to make efforts to stamp out narcotic drugs, especially methamphetamine, within its four-year term as a new national agenda item. drugspoliticscrime By Bangkok Post Monday 18 September 2023 09:36 AM Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin (right) visits Akkhie Prakarn plc where about 25 tonnes of narcotics were incinerated, in Samut Prakan province, yesterday (Sept 17). Photo: Bangkok Post It will also commit to a short-term goal to contain drugs as much as possible in the first year, and has invited the public to join the drugs suppression effort, reports the Bangkok Post. The government wants to break the circle of the narcotic drug problem, from smuggling to drug addiction and money laundering, said Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin yesterday (Sept 17), addressing a meeting of the government committee on drug suppression. The PM is chairman of the committee, which includes some cabinet ministers, the chief of the Narcotics Control Board and the national police chief. A consensus has been reached among the 11 coalition parties as well as all other parties in the opposition that the need to tackle the drugs problem is high on the agenda, he said. The priority now is the suppression of drug smuggling which is seen as a key measure for preventing drugs from reaching communities. The waiting time between drugs being seized in a crackdown and when they are destroyed also will have to be shortened, he said. Shortening the process of seizing the assets of drug dealers is key to cut them and their network off from these resources, said Mr Srettha. Lets make today the start of a new fight to stamp out drugs problems from society, he said. Since assets confiscation is the worst fear of drug dealers, state agencies concerned are now asked to accelerate assets seizure efforts in every drug case. Mr Srettha said he would follow up on progress of the work while ensuring good governance rules apply so state agencies and the public feel secure in joining the fight against drugs. The problem must subside within a year while within the four-year term of this government, methamphetamines must be gone, he said. After the meeting, Mr Srettha watched as narcotic drugs confiscated in more than 100 recent drug cases were destroyed at an incineration facility owned by Akkhie Prakarn Plc in Samut Prakans Muang district. The drugs included 12.52 tonnes of methamphetamine, 11.65 tonnes of crystal methamphetamine, 418 kilogrammes of heroin, 179kg of opium, 704kg of ketamine and 25.51 tonnes of other narcotic substances. They were burnt at 800-1,200 degrees Celsius in a natural gas-powered incinerator equipped with environmentally friendly and pollution-controlling technology. Wichai Chaimongkhon, secretary-general of the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), said destruction of drugs seized in crackdowns can now be conducted much faster than in the past when seized drugs needed to wait until legal proceedings were done, which could take up to 10 years. Recent updates on laws concerning the destruction of drugs seized in a drug case sooner also sped things up and eased the ONCBs burden in taking care of drugs awaiting destruction, he said. In response to the PMs order to make the drugs fight a national agenda item, Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said the ministry will accelerate the suppression of drug smuggling and trade at the provincial level and report directly back to the PM. As for the time frame set, Anutin said he has to admit that it is impossible to say exactly when this problem will be fixed. Imposing a strict deadline could result in setbacks, he said. Pornpen Khongkachonkiet, a human rights defender and director of the Cross Cultural Foundation, said the governments anti-drug policy reminds her of the mass extrajudicial killings which took place during the Thaksin Shinawatra administrations war on drugs policy 20 years ago. Initiated by Thaksin in 2003, the war on drugs sparked an uproar among rights activists after more than 2,500 suspects were allegedly killed during its implementation. The governments vow to completely eradicate narcotic drugs makes me feel concerned and fear that history will repeat itself, she said. Before the inflection point in our society ! | Lt Gen Konsam Himalay Singh, Army Veteran On my superannuation in 2017 after nearly 40 years in the military, I was happy to see a changed atmosphere of hope and aspirations among all groups of people in the State. The youth of the State no longer hesitated to hard work for a living. Unlike the days of 1980s-2000s, I observed a sense of stability in the society and clarity of purpose in the eyes of the youth at the individual level despite deficiencies in the governance issues at various levels for long. The recent violence of 03 May saddened me no end. The news of the cold blooded murder of Sepoy Serto Kom of Defence Security Corps, Leimakhong, who was kidnapped from his house during leave and killed on 17 September is yet another example of mindless and wanton act of cowardice. Having donned military uniform for over 55 years , I believe that any attack of such kind on a soldier by anyone is a very serious issue for the State. All lives matter. Many such sad incidents of innocent lives being killed in the ongoing violence in Manipur have already placed our society in a self-destructive path since May 03. We have lived through many more unbelievable and unthinkable levels of violence/atrocities which are borne out of hatred and revenge. I suspect that the present level of fear and hopelessness and its impact on our society may already be spiralling us towards the bottom of an endless pit. Many politicians, administrators, and civil society members throughout the State, claim to be working towards what they believe is right. However, there appears to be no light at the end of the tunnel till date. The innocent and motivated youths are also knowingly or unknowingly being drawn towards what they believe is sacrifice for the Ima Leibak, an idea which inspires many youths. Misdirected proliferation and misuse of these otherwise lofty ideals could also be a beginning of uncharted social issues. I also believe that most State and Central agencies, are under very difficult and challenging times. At the end it is the public in every corner, be it in the hills or the valley, that bears the brunt of any conflict of this nature where events have overtaken the real issues. I am reminded of a quote by Donna Tartt which may be relevant here;- SOMETIMES WE WANT WHAT WE WANT EVEN IF IT IS GOING TO KILL US. Are we in the Inflection Point of our society ? Everyone I speak with in recent times, express their keen desire to see the end of the violence as soon as possible. Everyone seem to be yearning for peace and to get on with life. It is heart-breaking to see the displaced families, sadder still to hear the young lives lost , ALL for what ? The more violence the society is subjected to the more the long arm of the coercive laws may come sooner or later. Notwithstanding the fact that most of the violence and weapons of all kinds are available and grossly being used/directed against each other are in AFSPA areas, the Indian State, under extremely volatile situation may also consider to bring coercive laws in the 19 police station areas and other measures as the last hope to bring peace. I do believe that the implications of a prolonged conflict in the region on the overall National security perspective are not lost on the policy makers. I only hope that matters dont go worse by unintended actions of all concerned. Any imposition of harsher laws will only bring greater miseries to more and more common people. What then is blocking us from achieving a decent level of living in peace and prosperity ? How is that we are in such a state of hopelessness for so long ? Who is holding the society to ransom ? Who actually are setting the agendas ? Diversity of ideas adds to democratic rights of freedom, but when one group of people assume that theirs is the only way, that will be the end of the beginning of any way forward. This is where the confusion begins. Rightly or wrongly, many point fingers at various State authorities, the security establishment, the armed groups on both sides, the narco trade, the endless supplies of weapons, the media, hidden agendas and so on and indeed everyone blames the other except themselves. Rumours, false and fake news/narratives from unexpected quarters have already added and charted a hopeless future for us. In my view, THE REAL CULPRITS ARESUSPICIONS OF THE INTENTIONS AND ACTIONS OF THE OTHER, REAL OR IMAGINARY; ASPIRATIONS, HOPES AND CLAIMS FROM VARIOUS QUARTERS AND FEAR OF THE FUTURE OF THEIR RESPECTIVE GROUPS. Hence, the two sides must sit down together. I do believe that in such situations it can best be tackled by a slow beginning towards building trusts with very practical issues at the table to begin with. Look for the convergence that have kept our State together in spite of many challenges this long in our history. After all, the world is full of example of bitter enemies becoming closest allies. As they say in geo-politics there are no permanent friends nor permanent enemies, there are only permanent interests. Our interests (both the parties in conflict as well) and that of the future generations lie in bringing relative peace and tranquility as early as possible. Remember that it is a long and hard way ahead for each one of us. The immediate and important issues could be progressed simultaneously. These issues such as, disarming the groups on both sides, the return of displaced people, illegal blocking of highways must be addressed in tandem as early as possible. Issues such as war on drugs, illegal immigrations, Constitutional review of the demands like ST demand, Constitutional protection of all groups/devolution of power are time consuming processes. We can only hope for initial assurances and commitments on all these important issues only by coming to the table before any concrete actions materialize. The question is-Who will bell the cat ? Who will bring the parties to the table ? I suspect that the cat is actually waiting for the parties to bell with practical tunes with a futuristic vision for all under the law.Now that the meeting point between the parties seem distant, powers that be in Delhi could be in a position to facilitate or even use other means to convince the parties to sit for a dialogue. Huge, delicate responsibility ahead Reimpose AFSPA call | The responsibility is huge. It is also extremely delicate. Points which those stan- ding by the idea of Manipur should be aware of and need to act accordingly. Protecting and promoting the idea of Manipur should go beyond the understanding of keeping the territorial integrity of Manipur intact, though this by no means is important, and this is all that more so in the face of the continued challenges being mounted on the very idea of Manipur as a distinct geo-political reality. The ethnic clash is already into its fourth month and it is more than clear that Imphal has no idea on how to take the State to the path of normalcy. Delhi at best is indifferent and it is in the midst of the deafening silence maintained by Prime Minister Narendra Modi that so many demands which challenge the idea of Manipur have been raised. The words deafening silence is qualified by the inverted commas for the Prime Minister did come out strongly against the nude parade of two Kuki girls on July 20, but this was more of an aberration, in the sense that the Prime Minister did not go into the clash but deemed it better to refer to just one incident ! It is against this reality that so many demands have been raised, chiefly the call for a separate administration by the ten Kuki-Chin MLAs. That the two Kuki-Chin Ministers continue to enjoy the perks and pelfs of being Ministers is another thing, but it remains that the separate administration call has given new dynamics to the ongoing clash. Add the call Reimpose AFSPA in the valley area and the forces tearing apart the idea of Manipur should be very clear to all those who stand by the belief of Manipur. It is more than clear that the call for the Army Act is not borne out of any desire to see the security personnel legally protected, but to spite the people who live in the valley area, or the Meiteis. The Kuki Inpi, Manipur (KIM), Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF) and Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) sure know how to take political mileage out of any given situation and their call to reimpose AFSPA came after Army sources were quoted by The Hindu as stating that the Army is facing challenges in Manipur without the immunity granted by AFSPA. This was on July 9 and the call to reimpose AFSPA in the valley districts started reverberating across Manipur. No doubt that KIM, ITLF and CoTU have mastered the fine art of timing and the seed for the slogan reimpose AFSPA may be said to have been planted on July 9. The high level of politics at play here should ideally not miss the eye of anyone, but the question of bigger import is whether the people who stand by the idea of Manipur have it in them to move a rung or two up from the street level politics. No easy answer on when Manipur can be expected to walk the road to peace and normalcy, but remember the separate administration votaries have already managed to take it to the international level and take their narrative to the floor of the European Parliament. The media based outside Manipur too has lapped up their victim story and are more than satisfied with just telling their side of the story to the world. The reality should not be missed on anyone. More than enough reason for everyone to think before acting, to discuss and seek out suggestions from well informed, well intentioned people and not give room to rabble rousers. All these need co-ordinated, informed planning and the co-operation of the people to nullify the separate administration call. Look at the immediate precursor of the re-impose AFSPA demand and this is where the people standing by Manipur cannot afford to give any leeway that can be exploited to suit their agenda. The question is whether people as a whole are willing to listen to reasoning and what the well informed folks have got to say. It cannot be a free for all situation, for such a trend can only lead to anarchy and allowing such a state would amount to playing into the hands of the adversary. Think before acting. Move up from the street level politics. It is not only muscles which will save Manipur, but sane thoughts, thoughts and ideas which come from the well informed people. remaining of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. A car drives in a desert scenic spot in Makit County of Kashgar, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 7, 2023. (Xinhua/Li An) BEIJING, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- China's car rental services have seen robust business growth thanks to a strong recovery in the tourism market. Domestic car rental services giant CAR Inc. said the total orders for its car rental services during the July-August period surged some 50 percent year on year and exceeded that of 2019, as many people chose to travel during the summer vacation. The orders from new users climbed nearly 80 percent, logging a record high, and cross-city orders made up over 80 percent of the total orders, it added. The company also saw a boost in long-period car rental services, with orders for rental periods of five days or more rising 70 percent year on year. As the country's new energy vehicle (NEV) infrastructure, like charging stations, improves, rental service orders for NEVs skyrocketed over 150 percent year on year, data from CAR Inc. showed. The summer tourism market posted a strong recovery that surpassed that of 2019. Domestic tourist trips this summer surpassed 1.8 billion in number, generating a total tourism revenue of 1.21 trillion yuan (about 137.6 billion U.S. dollars), according to the China Tourism Academy. The company said bookings during the Aug. 17-Sept. 15 period for car rental services for the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday gained over 200 percent year on year and over 30 percent compared with 2019. The service sector posted remarkable performance this year, serving as a major underpinning of China's economic growth. Official data from the National Bureau of Statistics showed that prices related to travel and accommodation rose faster in August than in July, pointing to the strong driving force of services consumption. "Public consumption steam has been gathering, evidenced by the robust travel market," said NBS spokesperson Fu Linghui, who estimated that services consumption growth might maintain a fast clip thanks to the upcoming 8-day-long holiday. The Kolkata Police commissioner, Vineet Goyal, issued a warning to the citys residents regarding the increasing cases of biometric data theft and bank fraud. He said, The cyber cell of Kolkata Police is working diligently and spreading awareness through various channels. To prevent such incidents, it is crucial to download the mAadhaar application and lock your biometrics. If you encounter such incidents, report them immediately. Once we are aware of them, we will take appropriate action. We are also in contact with banking authorities. Shankho Shubhro Chakraborty, joint CP (cybercrime), revealed that reports of such crimes have been on the rise since June of this year. The police headquarters bank fraud section is actively investigating multiple cases. The Kolkata Police asserts that these incidents of biometric data theft leading to fraud primarily occur in areas where ATM services are limited, and criminals use biometric cloning for these activities. He advised individuals to secure themselves by locking their biometric data. A new threat looms over the City of Joy, Kolkata, with allegations of large sums being fraudulently withdrawn from bank accounts using Aadhaar cards as tools. Chakraborty revealed that the Kolkata Police has received 66 complaints related to Aadhaar biometric data fraud. He emphasized that most of these cases involve local fraud, but similar incidents have been reported from various states. In recent days, multiple allegations of Aadhaar-based fraud have arisen from different locations. Advertisement Not only Kolkata, but also several districts within the state have reported similar cases to the police. In most instances, these frauds occur locally, although neighbouring states have also reported such incidents. These fraudulent activities primarily stem from the misuse of biometric data collected for Aadhaar cards. In response to these concerns, the All-India Fair Price Shop Dealers Federation has sent a letter to the Union food and distribution minister, Piyush Goyal. The letter highlights the increasing incidents of financial fraud through fingerprint and Aadhaar card replication. Currently, the Centre has made it mandatory to link Aadhaar cards with biometric authentication for ration distribution. Ration dealers are concerned that if customers become victims of fraud by sharing their biometric or Aadhaar card information, allegations of such fraud might be directed towards them. Therefore, they are urging Goyal to address this issue and have proposed the recruitment of employees from the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) at ration shops. However, at the administrative level, it appears unlikely that the Centre can recruit such employees for all ration shops, according to ration dealers. They argue that by adopting alternative ration-distribution methods, they can protect themselves from fraud allegations. Bishwambhar Basu, the national secretary of the AIFPSDF, stated, We cannot be held responsible for any fraud. We provide essential services to the public through ration shops, which support our households. Therefore, maintaining social respect is of utmost importance to us. This is why we have brought our concerns to the Centres attention. According to sources within the Union home ministry, incidents of biometric data theft leading to such fraud have seen a significant increase in six states and one centrally administered region. Residents of these states are the primary targets of cybercriminals. These states include Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and West Bengal. In response to the escalating concerns surrounding the dengue and malaria situation in the state, a crucial meeting was today convened by the top brass of the state adminis- tration. A virtual meeting was conducted from 11:30 a.m., chaired by the Home Secre- tary, B.P. Gopalika, and attended by the Health Secretary, Narayanswarup Nigam, from the state administrative head- quarters, Nabanna. Chief minister Mamata Banerjee was absent from the meeting as she is currently on a trip to Spain. The states Chief Secretary, Harikrishna Dwivedi, also accompanied her on this trip. Therefore, the administrative responsibilities fell on the shoulders of the Home Secretary, who will brief both the CM and Chief Secretary of the state regarding the outcome of the meeting. In a virtual Press conference, Mr Gopalika said that 200 centres were opened for dengue testing and fever clinics are actively working 24 hours a day. Advertisement We have tested 9 lakhs samples so far. We have arranged adequate blood platelates and blood and hospital beds are available, he said. Mr Nigam said that around 1,500 persons were admitted to hospital with dengue symptoms and conditions of 25 are being strictly monitared. According to sources from Nabanna, the meeting aimed to brief the Chief Secretary on the steps taken by the administration to combat dengue and malaria not only in the city but also in all districts of Bengal. Joining the district mag- istrates in the virtual meeting were the chief health offi- cials of the respective districts. They were also asked to provide information on the health- care infrastructure in their districts. The meeting discussed various measures undertaken to address the situation, par- ticularly in districts where dengue and malaria out- breaks have been significant. Special attention has been directed toward these affected districts. The administration has instructed district administrations to train gram pan- hayat and panchayat samity members in combating these diseases. Even ward committees in municipal areas are expected to receive training. In areas where water accumulates and stagnant water can lead to mosquito breeding, drone surveillance will be employed. The official emphasized, To prevent the spread of dengue and malaria anywhere in Bengal during the fes- tive season, proactive measures are being taken. This meeting was called to provide necessary guidance. District administrations are entrust-ed with this responsibility, and they understand it well. But even after this, vigilance will continue from Nabanna. The meeting highlighted the governments commitment to addressing the dengue and malaria situation effectively and ensuring that these diseases do not have a significant impact during the festive season. Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari today said that the state has miserably failed to combat the dengue and malaria situation. The state government had ignored the Central government guidelines, so the sit- uation took a violent turn. The Central government fund for this purpose was not utilized. Now all private hospitals are occupied with dengue patients, said Mr. Adhikari. Work on the Majerhat Esplanade stretch of the Purple Line of the citys Metro network has picked up pace as the Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) engineers have started taking up pre-construction work before kicking off the main task. The Majerhat Esplanade section of the Metro, once commissioned, will serve as a crucial link between the Central and south-western parts of the city. While working on the completion of Majerhat Station that has reached its final stage, the implementing agency is now gearing up for giving momentum to the remaining leg of the Joka-Esplanade Metro Corridor. The RVNL has also set a target to complete the work within 48 months.Once operational, the corridor is expected to make commuting from parts of the city like Taratala, Beha- la, Thakurpukur and Joka areas towards Central Kolkata smoother. Advertisement Notably, the remaining stretch of the Majerhat Esplanade section has four underground stations includ- ing Victoria Metro Station. The implementing agency is gearing up to kick off the preparatory works for the construction of the station. The authorities are said to have done aVibration Impact Study to assess the vibration levels likely to be generated during the construction and operations of the metro. Based on the reports of Vibration Impact Study, No Objection Certificate is also said to have been obtained from Victoria Memorial Hall Authority. According to Kolkata Metro Railway, RVNL has started to barricade an approximately 5000 sq metre area for construction of the underground station. After completion of barricading work, a diaphragm wall of 325-metres would be erected for Victoria station. The preparatory work is expected to take around 30 weeks. During the construction work, the agency is to take measures to reduce the air and noise pollution particularly in the Maidan area to maintain aesthetic view of Victoria Memorial and its surroundings. The AAP Government in Delhi will give international recognition to Delhis markets. For this purpose, a virtual market called Delhi Bazaar is being created, which will bring together all the shops in the national capital. The city government will promote the Delhi Bazaar portal, allowing anyone anywhere in the world to visit the portal, virtually explore Delhis markets, and purchase their preferred products. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal shared this information while attending the Chandni Chowk Shopping Festival held in Rangpuri on Sunday as chief guest. Advertisement Our government is pro-business and pro-industry. We have made numerous efforts to eliminate red tape and promote business growth. Our plan is to beautify other markets in Delhi, similar to Chandni Chowk, so that more people visit them and business flourishes. If the government system is simplified, and opportunities are provided to businessmen and entrepreneurs, undoubtedly, we (India) can surpass China, Kejriwal said. Chandni Chowk traders and the Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) had jointly organised the event. It featured various shops, including clothing and food stalls. The Chief Minister visited each shop, interacted with the shopkeepers, and encouraged them. This is a great initiative, and in future, we can organise such festivals in different parts of Delhi. We can organise such events market-wise and sector-wise so that buyers and sellers can interact with each other, the chief minister said. He further said there were three programmes lined up for the coming days. They are: The first, in the style of Dubai Shopping Festival. He said, We are planning Delhi Shopping Festival on a massive scale. The planning and implementation of this mega event is taking some time, we couldnt meet a few deadlines. Since it will be the first event, we are planning on a grand scale so that it can leave its imprint on the minds of attendees. This event would be for 7-10 days so that people across the world should visit Delhi and shop throughout Delhi. During the entire festival, Delhi will be in a celebration mode. The second is the beautification of markets on the lines of Chandni Chowk. He said, Ever since we have beautified the Chandni Chowk Market, footfall of the people has risen leading to an increase in business significantly. In the same fashion, the Delhi government has plans to beautify many more markets gradually. If the market becomes beautiful, the trade rises. People often go window shopping, and when they go to these markets theyll purchase something eventually. The third is creation of virtual bazaar. Delhi government, he said was creating a virtual bazaar, Delhi Bazaar, of which all the shops of Delhi will be a part so that someone sitting in New York could see everything virtually, and order from shops of Chandni Chowk. All the shops in Delhi would be able to sell their articles on the national level and internationally. Kejriwal said many companies have already put up their items on their website but not every shopkeeper has this facility to create their website and then advertise it. But if the Delhi Bazaar comes to market the Delhi government will advertise it globally. The website will enlist products and shops so that the buyer can easily see them. They will eventually multiply the businesses. This kind of experiment has not been done anywhere in the world as of now, which brings all the shops and items on the same portal. This is taking some time but once its ready, the people of Delhi will be proud of it, he added. Folk music has a very strong base and popularity, thanks to the immense contributions by great mystic bards of Bangladesh and West Bengal. It is deeply connected with the psyche of Bangladesh as well as West Bengal and resonates through the villages of both the Bengals. To acquaint themselves with urban city dwellers and reassess the glorious culture and heritage of Bengal, Purple Touch Creatives, a Delhi based socio Cultural organization and Dakshin Delhi Kali Bari Association hosted a two-day festival of traditional folk songs to promote Bangla music. The Folk Festival was inaugurated by Chief Guest, Ex- Lok Sabha Member Shri Abhijit Mukherjee, son of late Shri Pranab Mukherjee, former President of India. Advertisement The event Folk Festival Lok Sanskriti Utsab (Sonajhurir Haat), held at the temple ground of Dakshin Delhi Kali Bari New Delhi on 16-17th September,2023, where the true beauty and magic of traditional Indian culture and heritage was on full display during the festival. With traditional instruments like ektara, dotara, dhol, banshi, khamak, mondola, several instrumentalists set off the event playing folk melodies by artists and performers from different villages in West Bengal who showcased the true inspirational traditional Indian art forms like Raibenshe, Bhawaiya, Bhatiali,Jhummur & Baul Akhra. There was also under the night sky, with the beauty of the Maa Kali temple serving as inspiration, unforgettable performances by renowned musicians Swapna Adhikari Baul and Lakhan Das Baul who mesmerized the packed audience with their talent. The audience was also left spellbound by the Music exponents enchanting vocalization of the mother and daughter duo, Ila Maa and Ayushi, who along with the other musicians had made everyone present cheering & dancing to the festivities.They performed a few folk themed Tagore songs at the event also. Traditional artisans also displayed their masterful pieces for all to display and buy for the very special occasion, which helped promote the traditional cottage industry of our country. Speaking about the importance and preservation of this art form, event director Asish Ranjan Das of Purple Touch Creatives beautifully elaborated on the timeless appeal of Bangla folk songs in contrast with modernism and urbanization and emphasized on music, especially folk melodies compared to other forms of art. He said at the event, The traditional culture and heritage of our great country, which has been handed down from countless generations, must be preserved at all costs. These artists, who are facing financial crisis in present circumstances, must be helped so their beautiful art form is not lost to time, and they can live their lives with dignity and respect. This is the main mission of Purple Touch Creatives, and I personally would like to thank my core team members for their hard work & dedication to make this event a grand success. I also would like to specially thank General Secretary Shri Subrata Das of Dakshin Delhi Kali Bari and his team members for hosting and supporting this very important cultural event he added. CANBERRA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Three people have been hospitalized with injuries following an alleged stabbing at the Australian National University (ANU) in the country's capital on Monday, state media reported. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) reported that police and ambulance personnel were called to the ANU campus in Canberra at approximately 2:45 p.m. local time on Monday to respond to reports of a stabbing. A spokesperson for Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Policing told the ABC that three people were taken to hospital and that one person is in custody in relation to the incident. Of those who were taken to hospital, two suffered stab wounds and a third was allegedly assaulted. In a statement posted on social media, ANU asked people to stay away from Fellows Oval at its campus in the central Canberra suburb of Acton. "There has been an incident on campus," it said. "Police are at the scene and have the situation under control, with an individual in custody." The ABC reported that neither police nor the university were able to confirm if anyone involved in the incident was an ANU student or staff member. Actor Vicky Kaushal, who is currently on a promotional spree for his upcoming movie The Great Indian Family, on Sunday treated his fans with a heartwarming picture with his mother. Vickys Instagram account is filled with the posts of his projects, his photoshoots, lovey-dovey clicks with wife and actress Katrina Kaif, candid dance videos, and pictures of his family. On Sunday, the 35-year-old actor shared a lovable picture with mommy Veena Kaushal. Advertisement Vicky is the son of action director Sham Kaushal. In the photo, we can see Vicky donning green tee shirt. His mother can be seen placing her head on Vickys chest, and the actor is holding her tightly. Both are flashing their beautiful smiles. Vicky captioned the post as: CutiepAai, with a red heart emoji. Kriti Sanon commented: So Cute, while Sunny Hinduja wrote: Sunday phun. The fans were also left in awe of the photo. One wrote: Most gorg people.. the woman behind the green flag man vicky is. Pov: two cuties in one frame, another wrote. Cutest mama bear with her baby bear, another comment read. The Great India Family is directed by Vijay Krishna Acharya. It is set in the heartland of India and will revolve around the madness that ensues within Vickys family due to some sudden developments that are beyond anyones control. It stars an ensemble cast of Vicky, Manushi Chhillar, Manoj Pahwa, Kumud Mishra, Sadiya Siddiqui, Alka Amin, Srishti Dixit, Bhuvan Arora, Ashutosh Ujjwal and Bharti Perwani. The film is slated to release on September 22. He also has Sam Bahadur, and Mere Mehboob Mere Sanam in his kitty. A Mumbai sessions court on Monday granted bail to accused bookie Anil Jaisinghani, six months after he was arrested from Gujarat in March in connection with an extortion case lodged by Amruta Fadnavis, wife of Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Granting bail on a Rs 50,000 bond, Additional Sessions Judge D. D. Almale has ordered Jaisinghani to surrender his passport with the police, not leave the country without the courts prior permission, attend the court daily, and not influence witnesses in any manner, and other conditions. His daughter and co-accused Aniksha Jaisinghani, nabbed from Ulhasnagar on March 17, was granted bail after 10 days. Advertisement The father-daughter and a cousin, Nirmal Jaisinghani had been booked by the Malabar Hill Police Station under charges of Prevention of Corruption Act and others. It followed a complaint by Amruta Fadnavis on February 20, and then discreet police investigations were launched to trap and arrest all the accused. Among other things, Amruta Fadnavis has contended that Aniksha Jaisinghani had attempted to lure and bribe her in return for helping out in a criminal case against her father, then threatened, blackmailed her with audio-video clips and tried to extort money from her. Anil Jaisinghani, who was facing and absconding in several other cases, was finally nabbed on March 20 from his hideout in Gujarat along with the relative, Nirmal Jaisinghani. In April, the Sessions Court court had rejected his bail plea and later the Bombay High Court junked Anil Jaisinghanis plea challenging his arrest as illegal. The encounter in Jammu and Kashmirs Anantnag district has literally turned into an uphill task as security forces engage in a fierce gun battle with terrorists for the sixth consecutive day. The terrorists are hiding in a cave-like structure on top of a hill in the dense Gadul forests in Anantnags Kokernarg area. The soldiers are facing an uphill battle literally. The terrain is giving the terrorists a tactical advantage. The hill is steep with only one narrow path to reach the terrorists hideout, which again is a cave like structure. Also the jungle is thick and the valley below is a killing ground itself. All these factors have stretched this operation for this long. However, the forces are determined to flush out the terrorists and according to reports they have neutralised at least one of them. A charred body has been found near their hideout and forces believe it could be one of the terrorists. Advertisement The security forces believe there are 2-3 terrorists, including an LeT commander even as some experts believe the number could be higher. The terrorists are believed to be highly trained in warfare and came well prepared. They stocked enough food and ammunition to last for several days. The operation started on the intervening night of September 12-13. At least four security personnel, including Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak and Kashmir police DSP Humayun Bhat have lost their lives. Another solider is said to be missing and one more is hospitalised. The Army has called in para commandos and using high-tech weapons to locate and neutralise the terrorists. Drones are being used to pinpoint the exact spot of the terrorists. Choppers are continuously hovering above the hill to notice movement of the terrorists. Meanwhile, the Army has also increased the area of search operation to nearby villages to ensure the terrorists dont escape or get any outside help. The operation, according to sources, is in its final stage and could end anytime now. The Supreme Court on Monday asked Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar to set a timeline in a week to decide on the disqualification pleas filed against Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and other MLAs who broke away from Shiv Sena to form government with the help of the BJP. In June last year, Shinde and other Shiv Sena MLAs loyal to him ditched the Uddhav Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government and joined the BJP to form government in Maharashtra. Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction) had sought the disqualification of Shinde and his loyalists under in petitions filed before the Speaker. Earlier in February this year, the Election Commission granted the name Shiv Sena and the bow and arrow symbol to Eknath Shinde faction. The decision was challenged by Uddhav Thackeray faction in the Supreme Court. Advertisement Hearing the plea filed by Uddhav Thackeray faction, a bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud had on May 11 asked the Speaker to decide on disqualification of Shinde and his loyalists in a reasonable time frame. However, a decision was not taken by Speaker Narwekar. he has to decide. He cant do this (keep delaying the decision). What did the Speaker do after the May 11 judgement by court? the Chief Justice asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta representing the Speaker. We direct that (the) Speaker shall hear the matter (of disqualification) no later than a period of one week, the CJI-led bench ordered. The top court also asked for a proposed timeline from the Speaker to decide on the disqualification petitions and listed the matter for next hearing in two weeks time. The Speaker began the hearing of petitions last week but postponed it after Shinde faction told him about not having some documents. Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal appearing for Uddhav faction termed the hearing by Speaker farce. India is charting an ambitious course to bolster its naval might in the Indian Ocean region, primarily to counter Chinas expanding presence in the area. The Indian Navy, which currently commands a fleet of 132 warships, 143 aircraft, and 130 helicopters, has unveiled a comprehensive plan to transform into a 175-warship powerhouse by 2035. This strategic move aligns with Indias unwavering commitment to safeguard its vast geostrategic interests and effectively respond to Chinas ever-growing influence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The endeavor involves a substantial investment, with approximately Rs 2 lakh crore allocated for 68 warships and vessels currently on order. To realize this ambitious goal, the Indian Navy has secured initial approval for a fleet of eight next-generation corvettes, nine submarines, five survey vessels, and two multi-purpose vessels. These vessels will be manufactured domestically in the coming years, showcasing Indias commitment to self-reliance in defense production. Advertisement Expanding its naval capabilities also entails strengthening its aerial and maritime assets. The plan encompasses an augmentation of fighters, aircraft, helicopters, and drones, enhancing the Navys strategic reach, mobility, and operational flexibility in the IOR and beyond. What does India want to do in the Indian Ocean? While focusing on modernization, the Indian Navy is simultaneously addressing gaps in its underwater combat capabilities. Delays in Project-75-India, which aimed to construct six advanced diesel-electric submarines, prompted the government to take action. They acquired an additional three French-origin Scorpene submarines, supplementing the initial order of six. Almost all of the 61 ships currently on order are in the process of construction within India. This demonstrates the nations unwavering commitment to its indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities. Notably, Russia is constructing two frigates. Furthermore, two additional guided-missile destroyers, named Imphal and Surat, are in readiness to join the ranks. These ships will augment the initial two destroyers. INS Visakhapatnam and INS Mormugao, were commissioned earlier under the Rs 35,000 crore Project-15B. Indias ambitious naval expansion demonstrates its dedication to safeguarding its maritime interests. It aims to ensure security in the Indian Ocean region. Also, it positions itself to respond effectively to the evolving dynamics in this strategically vital area. The Kerala High Court on Monday stayed the trial proceedings in the case related to the alleged illegal possession of ivory filed against Malayalam actor Mohanlal for six months. A single bench of Justice PV Kunhikrishnan granted an interim stay of proceedings before Judicial First Class Magistrate Court, Perumbavoor, for a period of six months. The case was registered after four elephant tusks were seized from the actors house in a raid conducted by the Income Tax authorities in June 2012. Advertisement Mohanlal, however, has been claiming that the ivory tusks were obtained legally and in 2015, at the direction of the Union government, the Kerala government had issued a certificate of ownership to him. Following this, the State government had issued a no objection certificate for withdrawing the case against him in 2020. However, in June 2022, the Magistrate court dismissed the states application to withdraw the case. The court observed that the withdrawal petition was filed in a hasty manner by the state government. The court also noted that there was no gazette notification in this case and hence the alleged certificate of ownership of the tusks has no legal sanctity. Challenging this order, Mohanlal approached the High Court. In February this year, the High Court dismissed the actors plea but it partially allowed the states plea for withdrawing from the case, and asked the Magistrate court for fresh consideration of the states plea. Subsequently, the state approached the magistrate court with a fresh plea seeking consent to withdraw the case. This plea by the state was, however, dismissed by the Magistrate court stating that the Wild Life Protection Act was implemented to preserve the broader national interests and not individual rights. The court further directed the actor to appear before the trial court on 3 November. Former prime minister and Rajya Sabha MP Manmohan Singh, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha leader and Rajya Sabha member Shibu Soren and BJP Lok Sabha MP Maneka Gandhi are likely to speak during a function in Central Hall to commemorate the legacy of Parliament on Tuesday. The function will mark the end of Parliamentary proceedings in the old building and then from 1:15 pm onwards, proceedings of both Houses will begin in the new Parliament building. According to sources, after a group photo session of members of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha at 9:30 am, a function titled Legacy of Parliament of India and Making Bharat Developed by 2047 will be held in the Central Hall between 11 am and 12:30 pm. Advertisement Sources informed that Singh being the senior-most MP in Rajya Sabha term-wise and Maneka Gandhi being the senior-most MP in Lok Sabha term-wise have been given the honour to speak at the function, where vice president Jagdeep Dhankhar, Speaker Om Birla and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will also be present. Modi will also address the function, sources said. Soren is the most senior MP due to his tenure in both Houses combined and that is why he has been invited to speak at the function, sources added. They said that apart from these, leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, leader of Rajya Sabha Piyush Goyal and leader of opposition in the upper house Mallikarjun Kharge will also speak. After this, the special session will resume in the new Parliament building at 1:15 pm. Earlier today, the special session of Parliament began with a discussion on 75 years of Parliament, with Modi initiating the discussion. The session is to continue till September 22. A day after including Rabindranath Tagores Shantiniketan in its list of heritage sites, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on Monday inscribed the Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas the group of Hoysala temples in Karnataka on UNESCO World Heritage List. The announcement was made during the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee being held in Riyadh Saudi Arabia, till September 25. The Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas has become the 42nd World Heritage Site in India. Reacting to the announcement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas is a testament to Indias rich cultural heritage and exceptional craftsmanship of our ancestors. Advertisement More pride for India! The magnificent Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The timeless beauty and intricate details of the Hoysala temples are a testament to Indias rich cultural heritage and the exceptional craftsmanship of our ancestors, the prime minister wrote in a post on his X account. Indias Permanent Representative to UNESCO, Vishal V Sharma thanked the World Heritage Committee on behalf of the entire nation for including the Hoysala temples in the UNESCO World Heritage List. India rejoices at the inclusion of the Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas on the World Heritage List. On behalf of my country, I offer my thanks to the World Heritage Committee for recognising the outstanding universal value of this nomination under Agenda 45COM.8B.29. If ever, poetry was carved in stone. It is in these monuments of India, he said. The Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas, a group of Hoysala temples were built under the rule of the Hoysala Empire between the 11th and 14th centuries. The temples are mostly dedicated to Hindu gods Shiva and Vishnu. However, some temples are also dedicated to Jain faith as well. Saints and sadhus have strongly opposed the statement made by Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Sanatan Dharma and have demanded an apology from him. They also warned of gherao of the Parliament and approaching the President in the matter if the DMK leaders and others do not apologize for their comments against the Sanatan Dharma. At a Dharmasansad held on Monday at the Acharya Peeth Tapasvi Camp in Ayodhya, the saints and religious leaders said in one voice that Udhayanidhi Stalin, son of Tamil Nadu chief minister, who had made indecent remarks on Sanatan Dharma, should apologize. Advertisement For this, we give him a weeks time. If he doesnt apologize, then all the saints and religious leaders of the country will march to Tamil Nadu and protest there, they announced. Presiding over the Dharmasansad, Jagadguru Paramhans Acharya saw a design to insult the people who believe in Sanatan Dharma. He said, Only people holding Constitutional positions are making unconstitutional statements. There are 120 crore Sanatani people in the country and they will not tolerate such comments, he asserted. The Acharya said saints will work to remove from power and drive those who make indecent comments and condemn Sanatan Dharma out. He said if DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin, who passed indecent remarks on Sanatan Dharma, does not apologize within a week, thousands of saints and religious leaders of the country will march to Tamil Nadu and protest there. On the occasion, the national president of Sankatmochan, Sena Sanjay Das, said those who are criticizing Sanatan Dharma do not know that Sanatan Dharma is the mother of all religions. The destruction of those who take a dig at Sanatan Dharma is certain, he added. Das said if the indecent comments on Sanatan Dharma were not stopped, the saints would meet the President and gherao Parliament House. Mahant Murali Das of Shree Nirvani Ani Akhara said people like Udhayanidhi Stalin, A Raja, Swami Prasad Maurya are anti-religious and their downfall is certain. Hundreds of saints and religious leaders including Mahant Jagdish Das, Mahant Ramcharan Das, Sarpanch Ramkumar Das, Mahant Nandram Das, Priest Hemant Das, wrestler Rajesh Das, and Mama Das were present in the Dharmasansad. Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren failed to get any relief from the Supreme Court in a money laundering case as the apex court on Monday asked him to move to the concerned High Court with his plea against the Enforcement Directorate (ED) summons in a money laundering case. A bench of Justices Aniruddha Bose and Bela M Trivedi refused to entertain the plea filed by Soren. Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the Jharkhand Chief Minister sought to withdraw the plea. Advertisement Soren had filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the summons issued against him and said that the case against him is a clear case of abuse of law by the Central Government and misuse of the Central agencies and to destabilize the democratically elected Government of the State of Jharkhand of which he is the Chief Minister. ED had asked Soren to join its investigation in the alleged money laundering case on August 24, but the Jharkhand chief minister did not appear before the central agency on that day. In his plea, Soren has urged the top court to declare Section 50 and Section 63 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 as ultra vires to the Constitution of India and to issue appropriate direction to declare the summons against him as illegal and null and void. He also sought to quash summons against him and all steps taken and proceedings emanating therefrom. As sentinel on the que vive, this Court has the Constitutional mandate to quash any act of the Union Government which is vitiated by malice and designed to interfere with the franchise exercised by the people of Jharkhand. With the General Election approaching soon in next seven to eight months, the political atmosphere in country has been vitiated by the ruling regime and all efforts have been made to threaten, humiliate and intimidate the political leaders, and particularly, when the opposition has united to form INDIA alliance in which Petitioner and his party are vocal participant and integral part of alliance and who are not aligned with the NDA, the petition read. Soren submitted that the issuance of summons is actuated by malice in fact as false allegation has been hoisted against the petitioner with the sole motive to create political uncertainty and unrest in the State. The respondent ED earlier also sought to link the petitioner with the alleged illegal mining of stone chips in Jharkhand and accordingly summons were issued, he further added. He also told the court that he has duly provided details of all movable and immovable properties owned by him and his family along with certified copies of the title deed thereof. Soren was earlier summoned by the ED in mid-August in connection with an alleged land scam case. However, Soren did not join the central agency probe stating that he was busy with the preparation for the Independence Day celebration in the state. He was again asked to appear on August 24 and September 9 but he did not appear before the probe agency. Earlier the Chief Minister had confronted the federal agency asking it to withdraw the summons against him or else he will take legal action. In his letter, Soren had said that he has provided all necessary documents and information. He wrote, if the ED needs any information, it can refer to the documents, he mentioned in his letter. He has also alleged that the ED has summoned him on August 14, on the instructions of its political masters. Your choice of the date of 14th August does not come as a surprise to the undersigned (Hemant Soren). You and your political masters are fully aware that being the Chief Minister of the state of Jharkhand, the undersigned is scheduled to hoist the national flag on the occasion of the 77th independence day of the Republic of India on 15th August 2023, Soren had written. Thiruvananthapurams Mayor, Arya Rajendran, stirred up a heated debate recently when a photo of her diligently working in her office with her one-month-old baby gained widespread attention on social media. Arya, who had already made headlines as the countrys youngest mayor, found herself in the spotlight once again. The image of Mayor Arya Rajendran, carefully reviewing files while cradling her infant, triggered a wide range of reactions from the public. Some hailed her as a trailblazing role model, showcasing how a woman can adeptly juggle her professional and personal responsibilities. They underscored the potential for achieving a harmonious work-life equilibrium, applauding her as a symbol of whats possible. Advertisement Many viewed her actions as a powerful testament to the idea that motherhood should never impede a womans career aspirations. Aryas ability to seamlessly integrate her role as a mother with her demanding job was seen as a source of inspiration for women nationwide. Conversely, there were those who raised valid concerns about the potential impact on professionalism in the workplace. Critics argued that the presence of a baby might disrupt the work environment and serve as a distraction for both the parent and her colleagues. About Mayor Arya Rajendran: Arya Rajendrans meteoric rise to fame began when she shattered records, surpassing Sabitha Beegums achievement of becoming Kollam Mayor at the age of 23, and even outpacing Devendra Fadnavis, who assumed the role of Nagpur Municipal Corporation Mayor at 27. Her remarkable journey didnt stop there. In addition to her mayoral duties, Arya also holds the position of state president at Bala Sangham, Keralas largest childrens organization. She further contributes as a state committee member of the Students Federation of India and holds the esteemed role of area committee member at Chala for the CPI(M). Mayor Arya Rajendrans ability to simultaneously excel in her political career and embrace motherhood has ignited a vibrant discourse about womens roles in the workplace and the importance of creating family-friendly environments to accommodate working mothers. In the shadow of the Afghan conflicts ever-shifting sands, China has made a calculated move that reverberates not just within the region but across the international stage. Its recent appointment of an Ambassador to Afghanistan signifies more than just a diplomatic milestone. Its a tangible manifestation of Chinas nuanced approach to safeguarding its strategic interests in a complex geopolitical landscape. The Ambassador who presented his credentials is the first to have done so after the Talibans takeover in August 2021. Barring Turkey, Iran and Pakistan, most countries have not maintained diplomatic representation in Afghanistan since the Taliban took over. Chinas interest in Afghanistans natural resources is no secret. With vast reserves of rare earth minerals, iron, copper, and other valuable commodities, Afghanistan presents an alluring prospect for Chinas resource-hungry economy. While Afghanistan was not initially a core component of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), it has become an essential focus, particularly for mining purposes. BRI underscores Chinas keen eye on the economic potential beneath Afghanistans rugged terrain. Beyond its economic ambitions, Chinas engagement with Afghanistan is also rooted in security concerns. Uyghur militant groups that seek refuge in Afghanistan pose a direct threat to Chinas stability, particularly in its Xin- jiang region. Chinas previous cooperation with Afghanistan on security matters has faced challenges with the Talibans reluctance to engage to the same extent. Beijing appears to believe that by engaging with the Taliban, it can secure its interests on two fronts ~ ac-cess to Afghanistans resources and a degree of con- trol over potential Uyghur security threats. The backdrop against which Chinas Afghan policy unfolds is its escalating rivalry with the USA. Afghanistans rare earth resources have become another arena in this global competition. Chinas commitment to safeguard its strategic interests remains steadfast, even as it engages with the Taliban. This rivalry adds a layer of complexity to Chinas moves in Afghanistan, as both superpowers jockey for regional influence. As the world watches Chinas diplomatic manoeuvres in Afghanistan, a pertinent question emerges. Is engagement with the Taliban the right approach? The last two years have shown that engagement alone might not change the behaviour of the Taliban. Instead, it could give them more reason to remain unchanged and uncommitted to the international communitys demands. Chinas appointment of a new Ambassador to Kabul, while significant in its own right, serves as a reminder that it primarily seeks to protect its strategic interests in Afghanistan. If hairs are to be split, the appointment does not necessarily signify an elevation of diplomatic relations between China and the Taliban. Advertisement China will argue that presenting credentials to the Talibans de facto prime minister is not tantamount to recognising the regime. Its a diplomatic necessity to safeguard Chinese interests, and one that shows Beijing views the worlds concerns with contempt. The appointment should be viewed within the broader context of Chinas pragmatic pursuit of national interests. Afghanistan, once again, finds itself at the intersection of international interests. In a significant move towards prioritising road safety in India, the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (Bharat NCAP), that takes effect from October 1, is poised to change the way we perceive and choose our cars. Modelled after the Global NCAP but designed for Indian standards, Bharat NCAP is a bold step forward in making our roads safer. While road transport and highways minister Nitin Gadkaris reneging on making six airbags mandatory in cars has sparked debate, it is essential to understand the broader implications of this initiative. Bharat NCAP represents a paradigm shift in how we, as consumers, approach the purchase of our automobiles. For far too long, Indians have bought cars primarily based on factors like fuel efficiency, brand reputation and price. Safety often took a back seat. Bharat NCAP changes this narrative by providing us with vital safety ratings for cars. These ratings encompass various aspects of safety, from structural integrity to child safety features. This information empowers us to make choices that align with our safety priorities, an aspect we cannot afford to ignore in a country with over 5 lakh accidents leading to 1.5 lakh road deaths annually. The decision not to make six airbags mandatory has generated mixed feelings, with some arguing that it might compromise safety. However, it is essential to recognize that the governments decision stems from a desire to strike a balance between safety and industry feasibility. By not mandating six airbags, the government allows automakers some flexibility while still incentivising them to prioritise safety. Star ratings for cars under Bharat NCAP ensure that those automakers not placing six airbags in their cars will face marketing challenges. These challenges will create a ripple effect within the automobile industry. This is already palpable with many automakers offering six airbags as a standard feature in their vehicles. Advertisement This aligns with the global trend of manufacturers recognising the importance of safety in their offerings. It is a clear indication that market forces are at play and consumer demand for safer vehicles is driving this change. Bharat NCAP serves as a catalyst, reinforcing the significance of safety features. One cannot overstate the urgency of road safety in India with Mr. Gad- kari rightly acknowledging the high death toll on Indi- an roads as a dark area. While human behaviour and other factors contribute to the grim statistics, it is heartening to see the government taking proactive steps to address this issue. Bharat NCAP is not merely about airbags. Rather, it is about a cultural shift towards prioritising safety on our roads. It empowers consumers to make informed choices, encourages manufacturers to embrace safety as a fundamental aspect of their vehicles and ultimately aims to reduce the staggering number of road accidents and fatalities in India. Bharat NCAP might not have all the answers. But it provides a framework for progress towards making our roads safer for everyone. As the new academic year has begun, higher education institutions ac ross the country experience a common phenomenon lowering of admission rates even in the technical sectors. While the exact cause for the sharp decline in admission is unclear, it may be held that higher education in India has become aimless. With the constant erosion of values, it is veering towards passivity, disappointment and dullness. It is plagued by an overemphasis on theoretical aspects of knowledge, absence of synchro- nization between theory and practice, lack of devotion to explore and examine newer strategies and experiences, carelessness in comparing multidimensional avenues of ascent and excellence and, above all, indifference towards the challenging realities of life. Apart from the fact that higer education is yet to open up diverse windows, the so-called advancement of learning pursued in our institutions more often than not fails to negotiate the immediate necessities of life. That quality in higher education is a myth is blatantly exposed by the academic disengagement that merits further scrutiny. As the world demands our knowledge, skills and talent to sustain economic growth and prosperity, the question is if we are up to the challenge? Advertisement India, likely to become the third largest economy in the world very soon, has been endowed with enormous manpower availability and there are tremendous expectations from it. Having launched the ambitious Make in India project, it is expected that 90 per cent of the GDP and 75 per cent of employment avenues would come from the services and manufacturing sector by 2030. According to the 4th estimate of the World Economic Forums bi-annual survey report, May 2023, the Indian market is expected to expand by 22 per cent over the next five years with top job creation from AI, machine learning and data segments. Globally, the job market is estimated to expand by 23 per cent, with 69 mil- lion new jobs to be created over the next five years. Such a fabulous demogrphic dividend would be missed unless the country can create a globally relevant and competitive higher education system that could serve the requirements of both the domestic as well as global economy. Indias advantages are its globally reputed institutions, albeit a few, greater student and faculty mobility and collaborations with international institutions. Indias talent is fit to work in or serve international markets. Of late, it has developed a culture of research, inno vation and entrepreneurship that can help the countrys economic growth. However, the fact remains that we have low employability due to our dated curricula. Tea- chinglearning practices are mostly examination-oriented with a focus on rote learning. There is a deficit of quality faculty, high student-teacher ratio, lack of institutional and industry linkages and autonomy to launch more relevant courses. Spending on research and development is low and, hence the paucity of international research collaborations. Campuses focus less on entrepreneurship and there are few incubation cells. Though the country has the highest number of higher education institutions, few are globally acceptable, thereby breeding lower employability and lesser interest among students. Economic growth is inseparably linked with the concomitant advancement of higher learning in science and technology. The emerging areas of science like biotechnology, nano-materials, mechatronics, bioinformatics, nano technology and high performance computing are presently taught only at select institutions in India. The situation reflects the Centres obsession with the need to improve the quality of higher education and research in science and technology in keeping with that of top universities in the world. Knowledge economy today requires sophisticated skills to participate, especially for high-paying jobs. A mediocre institution may provide a degree but may render the graduates un- employable. Even beyond rankings, where our country cuts a sorry figure, there are tell-tale signs. A recent report suggested that over 80 per cent of our engineering graduates are unemployable. Public investment in education is low by world standards, which leads to relatively poor infrastructure, insufficient educational and lab resources and poor hiring and retention. The metrics for hiring and assessment are focused on numbers in lieu of quality and impact, which creates wrong incentives. Uncalled for political interference impacts focus and morale as well. Also, lack of industry and social relevance adversely affects resources, placement and recruitment. Lack of world class universities leads to missed opportunities for industry, economy and society. Industry is much more likely to invest in higher education if they derive value in terms of their work force or technology needs. Industry support for high quality universities will free up governmental resources to be used for other areas of need. In most developed countries, the government, the industry and the universities work closely together to solve issues relating to society and industry. Those admitted to undergraduate programmes to elite Indian universities have been catapulted to brilliant international careers, but they are very few in number. For most students, an undergraduate degree is a rite of passage rather than an engine of learning. The system is, in fact, not designed to cultivate the nations human capital for the future. Perhaps the most diagnostic symptom of what ails higher education is the large number of college graduates who remain unemployed even as jobs remain vacant in a rapidly growing economy. Public universities established or incorporated by the Provincial Act or by a State Act are classified as state universities. With the advent of globalisation and an Internet-driven industrial revolution, Indian state universities continue to make higher education accessible to the burgeoning population. Unfortunately, they face serious structural issues pertaining to quality, which has disillusioned students about the higher education system in general. Their disillusionment and subsequent inability to pursue meaningful careers has certainly compromised the nations development. Sadly, most state universities have been reduced to mere degree giving institutions, which has hampered the overall learning experience of students. Lesser emphasis on market-relevant skills has failed to recognize socio-cultural realities. General degree colleges are all affiliated to one university or the other. The system has apparently been imported from the higher education structure prevailing in London at the time when universities of Calcutta, Bombay and Madras were founded. The system has undergone dramatic changes in the past century and a half. In Europe, only a small number of students, after completing high school, are allowed to pursue higher education. A good number of high school graduates join the higher poly technic/ professional colleges. The rest go to technology or vocational training colleges, often in conjunction with working part time in a related company. The programmes offered by general degree colleges in our country do not prepare students for any particular profession. Since the academic session of 1994-95, the UGC has been offering financial support to colleges for introducing vocational subjects in their undergraduate programmes. The UGC clearly recognises the need for such training to help students qualify for the job market, but it has not gone the extra mile. Surely the NEP has felt the need to package the course work with professional subjects. In calling for curricular breadth, flexibility, creativity and fundamental cognitive skills, it seeks to develop the rich diversity of talent. This would make our higher education more meaningful and create motivated manpower which is essential for future development. Still there is need for pedagogical reforms in addition to curricula reform. Curriculum defines what one learns; pedagogy defines how one learns. Perhaps, that is the idea behind a flipped classroom. In a flipped classroom model, students are expected to do the assigned reading before class, knowing that they may be called upon to communicate and analyze what they learned in front of the class or in break- out groups of their peers. Although there is no substitute for a good faculty, global initiatives of academic networks and online courses may provide an alternate learning platform for students. There is a need to promote an academia-industry interface, which promotes technology transfer from industry and allows experts to teach students. Is the government ready to provide funds for necessary infrastructure and recruit peo- ple with proven track records, particularly the large community of expatriates presently engaged as scientists, researchers and teachers abroad on a competitive pay structure? Ironically, the HRD ministry cries itself hoarse over the spec- trum of a dramatic shortfall of qualified personnel in future but falls short of taking the initiative to adopt corrective measures. The Ministry is determined to let private capital flow rapidly in this sector, but cannot be bothered about making some dramatic improvement in the situation with little investment in existing institutions. The government balks at exposing traditional industries to competition but has no qualms about opening up our education sector to the highest bidder (The writer, a former Associate Professor, Department of English, Gurudas College, Kolkata, is presently with RabIndra Bharati University) Parliament Special Session Day 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Lok Sabha as Special Session of Parliament began on Monday. The government has listed 8 bills including the contentious Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill. The five-day special session will also have a discussion on Parliamentary journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha achievements, experiences, memories and learnings. Amid the buzz over a surprise bill, Prime Minister Modi has termed the five-day special session of Parliament a session of historic decisions. Addressing the media ahead of the beginning of the session, PM Modi said, This session of the Parliament is short but going by the time, it is huge. This is a session of historic decisions. A specialty of this session is that the journey of 75 years is starting from a new destinationNow, while taking forward the journey from a new placewe have to make the country a developed country by 2047. For this, all the decisions of the time to come will be taken in the new Parliament building. The announcement of the special session of Parliament merely 38 days after the Monsoon Session came as a surprise to not just Opposition parties but some ruling alliance members as well. Moreover, the government didnt reveal the agenda of the session at the time of announcement, leading to speculations. Advertisement Even after the release of tentative list of bills, the opposition highlighted a line that said this is not the exhaustive agenda. Their is a buzz in the political circles that the government is planning a surprise bill. Also Read: Parliament special session: The business and the bills The Opposition questioned governments intentions behind its decision to keep the agenda under wraps. This is what led to speculations that the Centre is planning to dissolve the Parliament and announce early elections as part of its one nation, one election move. The other speculated items were Uniform Civil Code and Womens Reservation bill. The Congress party has also written to Prime Minister Modi to inform him about the issues it will raise during the special session. The grand old party has asked the government to table the Womens Reservation Bill and discuss Manipur ethnic clashes, communal riots in Haryana, the issue of Adani and alleged Chinese occupation of land in Ladakh. While the session on first day will be held in the existing building, the parliamentary proceedings will be shifted to the new Parliament building adjacent to the old one on Tuesday. An all party meeting was held on the eve of the special session to discuss parliamentary business. After the all-party meeting, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi said that the special session will provide 5 sittings during which eight legislative items are likely to be taken up. Earlier on Sunday, a flag hoisting ceremony was held in the new Parliament building. The ceremony was attended by Cabinet ministers and several other leaders from Opposition parties. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar hoisted the national flag atop Gaja Dwar of the new Parliament building. Parliament Special Session Day 1: Amid all the buzz and speculations over agenda, the five-day special session of Parliament begun on Monday. The government has listed eight bills in the tentative agenda of the session. A discussion on the achievements of Parliament in the last 75 years will also be held on the first day of the special Parliament session. The session began with Prime Minister Narendra Modis address in the Lok Sabha during which he congratulated ISRO and its scientists for the historic Moon landing of Chandrayaan 3 and lauded the success of G20 summit. Modi said Chandrayaan 3 made the entire world proud and the mission was a testament to Indias prowess in the fields of science and technology. Here are the top quotes of PM Modis Lok Sabha address On Chandrayaan 3s success: The success of Chandrayaan-3 has not only made India but the world proud. This has highlighted a new form of Indias strength which is connected to technology, science, potential of our scientists and the strength of the 140 crore people in the country. Today, I again want to congratulate our scientists. Advertisement On G20 Summit: Today, you have unanimously appreciated the success of G20I express my gratitude to you. G20s success is that of 140 crore citizens of the country. It is Indias success, not that of an individual or a partyIt is a matter for all of us to celebrate. G20 Declaration Indias strength: It is Indias strength that it (unanimous Declaration) became possibleUnder your chairmanship the P20 Summit of G20 Parliament Speakers you announced, will have our full support. Parliament, a temple of democracy: When I first entered this building (Parliament) as an MP, I bowed down and honoured the temple of democracy. It was an emotional moment for me. I could have never imagined that a child belonging to a poor family, living on the railway platform would ever be able to enter the Parliament. I never imagined that I would get so much love from people. On moving to new Parliament building: Bidding goodbye to this building is an emotional momentMany bitter-sweet memories have been associated with it. We have all witnessed differences and disputes in the Parliament but at the same time, we have witnessed Parivaar bhaav. PM remembers 2001 Parliament attack: There was a terror attack (on the Parliament). This was not an attack on a building. In a way, it was an attack on the mother of democracy, on our living soul. The country can never forget that incident. I also bow before those who took bullets to their chest to protect the Parliament and all its members, while fighting the terrorists Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu outlined the plans for his US trip before his departure Sunday night. In addition to again emphasizing the need to deal with the Iranian threat to world security, he also took the opportunity to criticize his political opponents. Netanyahu was met at the airport by groups of protestors. And he can expect to be met not just with the usual anti-Israel protests when he visits America, but also by Israelis there who oppose his governments policies. Before boarding his plane Netanyahu decried the activities of the protestors from blocking highways to calling for refusals to perform military reserve duties and spoke of how when in his years as leader of the opposition he never called on people to take such extreme actions. Advertisement Netanyahu is expected to meet with US President Joe Biden at the UN in New York where they will both attend the opening of its new annual session. He also expects to meet with the German Chancellor, the President of Ukraine, the President of Turkey, and many additional leaders from Asia, Europe and Africa. On the Iranian threat he commented, Today, the world is seeing and I will certainly emphasize this that Iran is violating all of its commitments, that it brazenly lies, and that it intends both to develop nuclear weapons and continue its aggression in the region. We will confront both of these together. I heard the threats from an official of the Iranian regime today; I suggest that he not threaten us. He and this regime need to know that we will respond forcefully to any attack on our people and our citizens. During a podcast interview at the All-In Summit 2023 in Los Angeles, renowned investor Ray Dalio made comparisons between Indias Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, and Chinas former leader, Deng Xiaoping. Dalio, the billionaire investor and co-chief investment officer of Bridgewater Associates, one of the worlds largest hedge funds, equated Modi to Deng Xiaoping, who played a pivotal role in Chinas economic transformation. Bridgewater Associates was founded by Dalio in 1975 in New York. Dalio expressed his perspective on Indias economic growth potential, asserting that India possesses a remarkable trajectory. He pointed to Indias 10-year growth rate estimates, comparing it to the top 22 nations globally, and noted that India stands out with the highest potential growth rate. He drew a historical analogy to Chinas position when he began investing there in 1984. Advertisement Examining various factors like demographics and per capita income, Dalio found Modi to be a Deng-like figure. In his view, Modi exemplifies a strong drive for reform, development, creativity, and other essential elements for growth. While Dalio acknowledged the existence of challenges and risks within India, he remained optimistic about the nations prospects. He did not believe these hurdles would significantly hinder Indias advancement. Dalio cited internal religious issues related to the Muslim population as an example but dismissed them as inconsequential to Indias economic journey. He emphasized Indias overarching importance and potential on the global stage. In summary, Ray Dalio, a prominent investor, has likened Prime Minister Modi to Deng Xiaoping, highlighting Indias substantial growth potential and its similarities to Chinas economic transformation during the 1980s. Despite acknowledging challenges, Dalio remains positive about Indias future economic trajectory, considering it a vital player on the global stage. Ukraine declared a significant development on Sunday, announcing the recapture of Klishchiivka, a strategically vital town situated to the south of the key frontline city, Bakhmut. This development marks a crucial milestone in Ukraines determined counter-offensive against Russias relentless incursion, which has been ongoing for some time. Klishchiivka, nestled on higher ground approximately 9 kilometers (6 miles) to the south of Bakhmut, has been a hotbed of intense combat for several weeks. The village was once home to around 400 inhabitants before Moscow launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, ultimately falling under Russian control in January of this year. This recent triumph in Klishchiivka follows Kyivs announcement of gaining control over the nearby and modest village of Andriivka. Advertisement Ukraines President, Zelenskyy, shared that Kyiv is actively devising new defensive strategies for the nation, with particular emphasis on bolstering air defense and artillery capabilities, although specific details were not disclosed. More on Klishchiivka capture: Meanwhile, in a separate development, the highest-ranking military officer in the United States conveyed on Sunday that Ukraines overarching objective of liberating its territory from Russian forces presents an immensely challenging task. Curiously, there has been no official statement from Moscow regarding the situation in the area. Ukraine embarked on a spirited campaign to push back against Moscows advances in the southern and eastern regions of the country beginning in June. The acquisition of Western weaponry and the recruitment of specialized assault battalions bolstered this endeavor. Initially, Ukrainian forces concentrated their efforts on the northern and southern perimeters of Bakhmut, steadily making incremental gains. In the wake of these gains, Ilia Yevlash, spokesperson for the Ukrainian troops in the east, reported that the battle inflicted substantial damage upon Russian airborne units, the Akhmat battalion led by Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, the Storm-Z unit comprised of Russian criminals, the Russian general staffs military intelligence, and motorized rifle units. TEHRAN, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Parts of a "defective missile system" belonging to the Iranian Defense Ministry crashed into a residential area in the northern city of Gorgan Monday morning, injuring two people, the official news agency IRNA reported. The incident occurred during a process to test Iran's defense and drone systems in a desert region after "one of the systems deviated from its path due to a technical defect and broke into pieces," IRNA quoted Iranian Defense Ministry spokesman Reza Talaei-Nik as saying. The spokesman added that parts of the system fell in some areas of Gorgan, which are being collected by operational teams. The fallen debris also damaged a number of buildings and vehicles. Talaei-Nik said those whose properties and belongings were damaged in the incident will be compensated. The incident occurred at around 09:00 a.m. local time (0530 GMT), producing loud bangs, the IRNA said. CAPE TOWN, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Unusual huge waves combined with violent winds hit the southern and southeastern coastal areas of South Africa over the weekend, causing at least one death, several injuries and extensive damage, local media reported on Monday. According to reports, an elderly woman was killed and a man sustained injuries during the spring tide which began on Saturday, and battered restaurants, houses and cars along the coast in the Western and Eastern Cape provinces of the country. "Our understanding is that she was swept off her feet by a wave that penetrated the car park, and she sadly passed away in what appears to be a weather-related incident," Craig Lambinon, spokesman for the National Sea Rescue Institute, was quoted as saying. "A man was also injured, and he was transported to hospital," he added. "There has been quite widespread damage across the coastline." Pictures and videos of high waves washing away parked cars across Gordon's Bay, outside the legislative capital of Cape Town, or causing destruction to seaside restaurants, have gone viral on social networks since Saturday. Meanwhile, in a separate incident, at least seven people were injured on the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal province after a huge wave crashed into a beach restaurant filled with customers on Sunday afternoon, reported local media. The National Meteorological Institute of South Africa has issued a warning for the country's 3,000-km coastline. Emergency services have called for caution, and several beaches in the region have been closed. Job Title: National and International Internship Roster (Several No Experience Fresh Graduate Jobs Integrated Sexual Reproductive Health (ISRH), Population Dynamics, Youth, Gender and Human Rights, Communications, Partnerships, and Innovation and Operations (Finance, Human Resources, Procurement, Administration, ICT) Organisation: United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda About US: UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, is the lead UN agency for delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every birth is safe, and every young persons potential is fulfilled. UNFPA expands the possibilities for women and young people to lead healthy and productive lives. Since UNFPA started working in 1969, the number and rate of women dying from complications of pregnancy or childbirth has been halved. Families are smaller and healthier. Young people are more connected and empowered than ever before. Job Summary: Under the overall supervision of the Representative and direct supervision of the unit head, the intern will support Uganda Country office in the areas of the following areas based on expertise and knowledge Integrated Sexual Reproductive Health (ISRH), Population Dynamics, Youth, Gender and Human Rights, Communications, Partnerships, and Innovation and Operations (Finance, Human Resources, Procurement, Administration, ICT). UNFPA is seeking candidates that transform, inspire and deliver high impact and sustained results; we need staff who are transparent, exceptional in how they manage the resources entrusted to them and who commit to deliver excellence in programme results. Key Duties and Responsibilities: As an intern you would be responsible for any of the following areas based on your application and qualifications: Integrated Sexual Reproductive Health (ISRH) Contributes to the preparation of projects and programmes in the unit and with IPs Assists in the coordination between the various units and projects developing or working on Sexual Reproductive Health Issues. participate in the identification, systematization and reporting of good/promising practices and lessons learnt on SRH Issues. Support the programme team in the Country Programme development process, including liaising with consultants and stakeholders to deliver results as planned. Gather, compile and analyses information in the subject areas of UNFPA assistance to the Government, drafting project documents and work plans and preparing tables and statistical data. Assist in the coordination/submission of substantive reporting. Provide regular updates in terms of Country Programme development including programme outputs and performance against indicators. Provide and present monitoring reports to the programme team on specific areas as required. Contribute to ensuring compliance of programmes/projects with organizational guidelines, as well as with audits and evaluation findings, by benchmarking programme and project performance and transmitting this information to the output managers for corrective action. Contribute to the evaluation of project and programme activities, establishing and implementing mechanisms to systematically assess the achievement of results, conducting field visits, participating in review meetings and evaluation missions and preparing regular inputs to status and progress reports Assist in reviewing and analysing country programme substantive achievements in SRH including performance trends and providing feedback to the Country Office and Regional Office (when necessary). Facilitate the monitoring of the overall SRH expenditure targets for the country programme in accordance with UNFPAs global resource allocation system, annual guidelines and AWPs. Participate in the review and analyze past and current expenditures including trends in pattern of resource allocation in order to prepare recommendations and proposals for distribution of income and utilisation of resources in the Country Office. Support the process of collecting, systematizing, and disseminating knowledge products. Provide support to the programme team on documentation, publishing and dissemination of good practice and lessons learned. Liaise with resource mobilization and communication units to make sure that knowledge products are well used to serve communication and resource mobilization efforts. Population Dynamics Support implementation, monitoring and reporting of the progress on the Demographic Dividend. Specifically, provide technical support in generating evidence at national and subnational level to inform planning and budgeting. Participate in the organization and planning of national symposium on demographic dividend. Prepare/update district population profiles and support data visualization at district level to support planning processes. Support capacity development of district planners on budgeting process to ensure sexual and reproductive health, gender based violence prevention/ response and demographic dividend are well articulated in the district plans and budgets. Provide technical support on demographic dividend compliance assessment both at national and subnational level and identify areas for advocacy. Support the ICPD@30/AADPD+10 review process Participate in national and district meetings for Data and Population Dynamics as may be assigned on with supervisor Youth, Gender and Human Rights Participate in the preparation of the CO programme and project proposals by compiling and analyzing information on Gender and Youth Development issues,, compiling project documents and work plans and preparing tables and statistical data. Contributes to the preparation of projects and programmes in the unit and with IPs Works with IPs on promotion of effective community participation in Programme planning and implementation on matters of Gender and Youth Development; Assists IPs and community volunteers to understand Programme objectives and provides inputs for local Programme components in accordance with agreed upon procedures; Facilitates the participation of targeted groups in community planning events to represent community needs and ideas in relation to Gender and Youth Development. Provides support to build capacity of local NGOs, service providers and volunteers and other key partners in the Gender and Youth Development sector and supports follow up actions; Assists in the coordination between the various units and projects developing or working on Gender and Youth Issues to ensure proper mainstreaming. Assists to the identification, systematization and reporting of good/promising practices and lessons learnt on Gender and Youth Issues. support with IPs on the timely submission of projects and financial reports on projects, including the review and finalization of inputs on reports; Assists IPs in preparing request of Fund Authorization and Certificate of Expenditures (FACE) and follows up on implementing procedures with the IPs to ensure timely submission of all financial and progress reports. Assists in monitoring projects expenditures and disbursements to ensure delivery is in line with approved budgets and to realize targeted delivery levels; Communications and Partnerships: Support and participate in planning and implementation of key events including visibility, branding and exhibitions including preparation of materials and content for major activities, launches, and media outreaches. Support the implementation of the country offices partnerships and resource mobilization strategy including compiling donor intelligence and ensuring templates for proposals are prepared and finalized. Participate in the development and design of materials (print, audio, video) and maintain an online database of materials for use on the various platforms. Contribute to photo documentation covering UNFPA activities. Contribute to writing success stories for the CO website. Support creation of new opportunities for UNFPA to expand its social media outreach by identifying social media influencers, bloggers etc that will be engaged on UNFPA mandate issues Provide other support and assistance as required. Innovation Participate in the identification of new innovation opportunities using best practices, programme implementation and research. Contribute to the design and establishment of innovation processes and projects. Participate in the promotion of the value of innovation to staff, implementing partners and all stakeholders. Participate in innovation processes, identifying problems and sourcing for innovative solutions. Contribute to the mapping out of existing innovation and innovative approach (e.g. m/e health, e-training, use of social media) including in the private sector to inform UNFPAs work. Contribute to the development and implementation of the Country Office Innovation strategy. Participate to the development innovative concepts for new products, tools and resource mobilization for a more vibrant and innovative approach towards communicating results and achievements, and assist country offices in the implementation of innovative prototypes. Participate in planning, management, monitoring and evaluation of innovation projects including tracking programme progress against set results, generating and managing information products from these processes for sharing; Link and network innovators to potential partners for up scaling and implementation Develop factsheets, abstracts, posters, briefs and others Finance Participate in Financial resources management through planning, guiding, controlling of the resources in accordance with UNFPA rules and regulations. Contribute to preparation and monitoring of budgets of management projects. Participate in establishment of the development projects budgets preparation/modification monitoring system, control of budgetary status versus authorized spending limits (ASL) and budgets delivery levels. Elaboration of proper mechanisms to eliminate deficiencies in budget management. Support financial analysis and ensure all resources are managed by the CO and provision of high-quality professional advice to the CO management. Contribute to timely production of accurate donor reports. Participate in the continuous analysis and monitoring of the COs financial situation, and preparation of regular updates on the status of financial resources. Ensure full compliance, of financial activities, financial recording/reporting systems with UNFPAs rules, regulations, policies and strategies; proper design and functioning of the financial resources management. Adapt processes and procedures to maximize effectiveness and efficiency in financial operations and management. Participate in the follow up on implementation of audit recommendations. Human Resources Participate in Recruitment and Placement Records and maintains recruitment files, ensuring all necessary documentation has been prepared and filed. Supporting in individual contract and management- Prepares manual offers and contracts for individual consultants ensuring that all the requested documents are completed and filed. Participate in learning & development activities maintaining completion status reports for mandatory training and following up with staff to ensure that the documents are on file. Support on-boarding Drafting offer and appointment letters, introduction of new staff to different offices, preparing the orientation package, ensuring that all staff have submitted the required on boarding documents. Support in drafting and responding to routine queries from staff and offices concerning a range of standard Human Resource matters, special reports, evaluations and justifications required on general HR administration or specialized tasks that are of confidential nature within assigned area of responsibility. Participate in reviewing and updating the list of staff and dependents. Contribute to proper administration of staff entitlements. Support staff separation processes, ensuring the checkout forms are received on time. Filling of all HR function documents. Procurement Support procurement in the Country Office and for all Field Offices. Provide procurement information support, within the relevant corporate information system modules, to all staff. Participate in the review of procurement requests in a transparent and cost-effective manner; recommends procurement decision when appropriate. Participate in an effective procurement recording and reporting system, internal controls and audit follow-up. Ensures the correct and up-to-date filing of all procurement information. Support the provision and maintenance of services and supplies following-up processes and maintaining up-to-date inventory and records. Support in the maintenance of up-to-date and complete records, documentation and filing of all procurement processes. Contribute to the completion of service provider evaluations and conducts follow-up actions where necessary. Contribute to the preparation periodic and ad hoc reports on procurement issues. Support the dispatching function for the Country Office and Field Offices and advising staff when procured goods arrive. Participate in the procurement transactions in an accurate and timely manner. Administration Contribute to repair and maintenance of office premises and equipment. Support in ensuring that the office premises are clean. Carry out spot checks on the premises to ensure hygiene SOPs and availability of all the cleaning materials. Ensure the office electrical appliances are in good working condition at all times. Check electrical installations (bulbs, sockets and fluorescent tubes) in offices, security and gate house, inform the office maintenance vendor for repairs/replacements whenever need arises. Receive and issue office stationery, ensuring appropriate stock levels and replenishments. Liaise with field office for replenishment of stationery items and PPEs. Check with security at the gate the function of the temperature guns and send for routing recalibration. Ensure proper arrangement of documents archived. Sorting documents due for disposal following the disposal policy and procedures. Check with field offices for any documents to be archived or disposed off. ICT Supporting the implementation of ICT management systems and strategies; complying with corporate information technology standards for the CO, supporting the use of Enterprise Resource Planning systems for improved business results and improved client services; Ensure that Back-up procedures are followed and all data is safe. Both Online and Offline back-ups should be well and maintained. This includes back-up on Cloud and local storage. Participate in the management of the Local Area Network and related infrastructure consisting of the Access Control, CCTV system, intrusion system, firewalls, telephone and printing management system in line with UN/UNFPA policies, standards and procedures. Work with IT services provider(s)/ vendors to ensure the LAN is properly maintained and good practices of the UNFPA Policy are followed. Work with IT services providers to proactively advise on the regular maintenance and possible improvement of ICT services. Maintenance of up-to-date ICT inventory device and software allocation list all relevant documentation. Provide timely IT support user support to all staff at the country office field locations. Qualifications, Skills and Experience: Applicants to UNFPAs internship programme must at the time of application meet one of the following requirements: Be enrolled in a first university degree programme (such as bachelors degree or equivalent) and have completed one full academic year; Be enrolled in a postgraduate degree programme (such as masters programme or higher); Have recently graduated with a university degree as defined above and, if selected, must start the internship within one-year of graduation; or Be enrolled in a postgraduate professional trainee programme and undertake the internship as part of this programme. Some experience in working with development agencies, including in volunteer capacity. Strong analytical and writing skills. Initiative, sound judgment and demonstrated ability to work harmoniously with staff members from different national and cultural backgrounds. Languages: Fluency in English. Knowledge of other languages is an asset Learning Elements: Upon completion of the assignment, and depending on its duration, the Intern will gain the following knowledge assets: Increased understanding of the UNFPA and the Programme Division within UNFPA Understand the UNFPA mandate and policies, including regional set-up. Understand and familiarize with UNFPA Governance and Executive Board. Understand UNFPA programme design and delivery mechanisms. Understand the dynamics of operational and programme support and communications to the field, and at the level of HQ. Learn UN technical language, working procedures, and coordination mechanisms. Write and formulate substantive documents. Network with UN colleagues Work experience as a team member in a multicultural setting Financial Aspects: Interns do not receive a salary or any other form of remuneration from UNFPA. The costs associated with an interns participation in the programme must be assumed either by the nominating institution, which may provide the required financial assistance to its students, or by the students themselves, who will have to meet living expenses as well as make their own arrangements for accommodation, travel and other requirements. However, they receive a stipend to help cover basic daily expenses related to the internship, if not financially supported by any institution or programme, such as a university, government, foundation, or scholarship programme. The amount of the stipend varies according to the duty station. In addition, applicants must have medical insurance for the duration of the internship. Proof of insurance will need to be submitted before the internship begins. UNFPA does not provide medical insurance for interns. Competencies: Values: Exemplifying integrity, Demonstrating commitment to UNFPA and the UN system, Embracing cultural diversity, Embracing change Core Competencies: Achieving results, Being accountable, Developing and applying professional expertise/business acumen, Thinking analytically and strategically, Working in teams/managing ourselves and our relationships, How to Apply: All suitably qualified and interested candidates should apply online through the UNFPA portal Click Here Deadline: 17th October 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 When a small business owner has a passion for politics, he finds himself in a unique position to help other small business owners in their time of need. For former Michigan State Representative Steve Marino , being a voice for other entrepreneurs has been a source of great pride, and given structure to his three terms in office. In June of 2021, he was awarded The Small Business Association of Michigans (SBAM) Legislator of the Year award after a 100% pro-small business voting record. During the pandemic, Marinos support was invaluable to struggling small businesses in Lansing. Marino has found himself in a position to provide relief and opportunities for growth during his six years in the Michigan House of Representatives, which began in 2016. Prior to his time in the legislature, he was Macomb County Commissioner. SBAM was not the first to recognize Marinos contributions to the economic growth of Michigan; in 2020, the Michigan Economic Developers Association (MEDA) declared him a Legislative Economic Development Champion along with nine other legislators. MEDA, who collaborated heavily with Marino during his tenure in the legislature, describes themselves as a professional society with members throughout the state that attract and grow business, create and retain jobs, and make our communities a better place to live. MEDAs recognition of Representative Marino cited his partnership with State Senator Ken Horn in pushing key economic development bills through both legislative chambers and helping to restore the Pure Michigan funding. Previously a lobbyist and owner of a public affairs firm, Campaign Finance Strategies, LLC, Marino is a lifelong learner with a special interest in public policy. As he moves forward from his term-limited six years as a Representative, Marino plans to return to the classroom before assessing his next steps. Forever Learning Although Marino already holds three degrees from Michigan State University, where he dual-enrolled at 16 years old, he is headed back to school this fall semester for his Masters in Public Policy and Administration at Northwestern University. Once his Masters is completed, he is considering a JD/MBA program. With BA degrees in Economics, Public Policy and Public Administration, and Political Theory and Constitutional Democracy, Marino honed in on public policy as a career from a young age. Marino was elected student body president in high school and again at Michigan State University, where he served as the student liaison to the MSU Board of Trustees. He worked to create student representation in middle school and high school in the districts Community Action Coalition, which was composed of administrators and community officials, giving him early hands-on experience in collaborating with various stakeholders in a project. Steve Marino has said that he is fascinated by the role that private actors play in influencing government institutions and shaping policies for all of society. Heading back to school at Northwestern will give him further insight into how to handle future challenges facing those in the public policy arena. Marino is especially concerned with how to regulate emerging technologies, combating climate change in a fiscally responsible manner, and cybersecurity research and development. Beyond his personal quest for growth and understanding, Marino is adamant that all public servants should perpetually continue their education. Proving that he is a man of his word, he is beginning his pursuit of additional degrees immediately. Paving the Way for Future Growth A high-performing member of his community, Marino has spent the first few years of his promising career paving the way for future growth in Michigan and beyond. Focused on creating an environment where career opportunities thrive, he is an advocate for vocational training and dual enrollment. Touted as a team player, a relationship-builder, and a friend to business, Marino is only 12 years into a career that often becomes a lifetime commitment. With youthful energy on his side, Marino has the opportunity to accomplish much more as he enters his next chapter. Marino has already proven that hes looking out for Main Street through his authoring of more than 20 Public Acts that included bolstering economic development incentives, aiding small businesses, and promoting economic diversification. His work with the MEDC resulted in record-breaking investments from 2020-2022, and his advocacy for a small business acceleration package resulted in state grants, entrepreneurial growth, and procurement. Although he got his start as a small business owner in Mount Clemens, Marino has proven that he is cut out for government work at every level. Able to learn and retain information at an incredibly fast pace, Marino has developed subject-matter expertise about every topic brought to his desk. Through his current plan of pursuing advanced degrees, Marino hopes to influence public policy and aid small businesses on a far larger scale in the future. As the Anantnag encounter enters day six, a charred body has been recovered from the Gadole forest in Kokernag. The discovery has prompted the officials to collect DNA samples from the family of Uzair Khan, one of the three Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) militants allegedly involved in the attack. The encounter at Anantnag started on September 13. It had caused the deaths of two Army officials - Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Asheesh Dhanchok of the Army's 19 Rashtriya Rifles - and Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Muzamil Bhat. The Army and the police had deployed additional troops around the forest and sealed off all escape routes as part of the operation. They had also utilised various aerial assets, including helicopters, quadcopters, and Unmanned Ariel Vehicles (UAVs), such as the Israeli Heron Mark-2, to pinpoint the militants' locations. The Army also employed Under Barrel Grenade Launchers and Rocket Propelled Grenades to target suspected hideouts. Special forces and soldiers trained in mountain warfare were deployed to engage two to three LeT militants, including Khan. Uzair Khan, a local from Kokernag, had joined LeT in July of the previous year. Two soldiers were injured and another died as part of the operations. Reports suggested that one of the hideouts in Gadole forests caught fire late Sunday afternoon though there was no official confirmation of this incident. The Police had also rejected reports that the three officers and a soldier were ambushed by militants. Officials added the operation was launched after tip-off regarding the presence of the militants in the forest. All escape routes were plugged, trapping the militants. The security officials have also added that they have extended the security cordon to the neighbouring Posh Kreeri area as a precautionary measure to ensure that terrorists don't slip into civilian areas. Meanwhile, the Lieutenant Governor said every drop of the martyrs' blood will be avenged and the terrorist handlers will have to pay a heavy price. "We have complete faith in our soldiers... The entire nation stands in solidarity with the jawans," Sinha said. He claimed that the attack on security forces in Anantnag was a result of the frustration among the terrorist ranks due to the successful conduct of the G20 Summit and the crackdown on conflict profiteers in Jammu and Kashmir. Sinha said the time had come to end terrorism and the ecosystem that has suppressed the common man in Jammu and Kashmir. The Tamil Nadu delegation, led by state Water Resources Minister Duraimurugan, will meet Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in New Delhi on Monday to urge him to direct Karnataka to release the state's due share of Cauvery water. The visit comes days after the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal ordered Karnataka to release 5,000 cusecs of water per day to Tamil Nadu. However, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had petitioned the Centre against a recent recommendation to release 5,000 cusecs water to Tamil Nadu for 15 days. "But Karnataka has not released even a drop of water," said Durai Murugan, Water Resource Minister for Tamil Nadu, as he left for Delhi. Karnataka, however, maintains that it had no water to release to Tamil Nadu as water storage in the reservoirs of the Cauvery basin was inadequate to meet even its own requirements. "We have faced a severe deficit of rain in August compared to the previous 100 years. We don't have water, that's why we are not in a position to release water as per the SC order," Siddaramaiah told reporters after an all-party meeting held recently. Tamil Nadu claims Karnataka is lying. On whether Karnataka's claim was false, Murugan said, "Yes, they are lying." #WATCH | Chennai | Tamil Nadu Water Resources Minister Duraimurugan says, "Cauvery Water Regulation Committee has already recommended Karnataka Govt to release 5000 cusecs of water for 15 days. But the Karnataka Govt didn't take any action regarding that. They are not releasing pic.twitter.com/GLIOMbrgrY ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2023 Duraimurugan said he would ask the Union Jal Shakti minister to address the issue. "We are going to ask the central minister today what are you going to do since you are looking on these two committees. Are you going to order Karnataka and monitor the situation," he told reporters in Delhi. Viduthalai Siruthigal Katchi party chief and Lok Sabha MP Thol Thirumavalavan accompanied Duraimurugan to Delhi. "Today we are planning to meet the Union Water Resource Minister on the Cauvery water issue. He should intervene and hope he will ask the Karnataka government and implement the Cauvery water management order to release water to Tamil Nadu." TOKYO, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- "Although history is in the past, if it cannot be faced up to or be known, then the facts will hardly transform into profound lessons to avoid repeating the same mistakes," said Seiya Matsuno, a researcher at Meiji Gakuin University's International Peace Research Institute in Japan. Matsuno, who as a scholar of Japanese modern and contemporary history has dedicated himself to studying the activities of the Japanese Imperial Army's Unit 731 in China at his own expense, reiterated the importance of Japanese society acknowledging its wartime history and spreading the truth in an exclusive interview with Xinhua in Tokyo. To cover up the heinous crimes committed by Unit 731 in China, the Japanese military burned and destroyed relevant documents. "Even now, we can find the original copies of orders issued by the Japanese Imperial Army General Staff Office before their defeat, instructing Unit 731 to urgently and thoroughly destroy all documents," Matsuno revealed. "As of now, most of the information about Unit 731, its composition, and activities comes from testimonies of former members and confessions of Japanese war criminals during the 1949 Khabarovsk War Crimes Trials in the Russian Far Eastern city," said the researcher. "There are very few first-hand materials left." However, while many Unit 731 documents in China were destroyed, some were retained in Japan or brought back from China during the war, according to Matsuno. Among these records, Matsuno recently discovered documents including the "Staff List of Top Officials in the Epidemic Prevention and Water Purification Department of the Kwantung Army," listing the names and ranks of members of the notorious germ warfare army Unit 731 that killed thousands of Chinese civilians and Russian prisoners of war at its sprawling complex in the northeastern Chinese city of Harbin during World War II (WWII). These documents fill gaps in research regarding the initial organization and size of Unit 731, enhancing the evidential chain related to the unit's war crimes. However, finding these historical materials was no easy task for the Japanese researcher. According to Matsuno, Japan's WWII-related records have been transferred to the National Archives of Japan (NAJ) by the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare, while some diplomatic and military-related documents are kept by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Defense. Every once in a while, the NAJ would release batches of newly processed historical materials, among which Matsuno spotted the recently discovered documents. The researcher pointed out that even when new materials are made available, they can remain obscure without substantial expertise and research skills, as searching for information using keywords like "Unit 731" or "epidemic prevention unit" yields little results. Additionally, accessing sensitive content at the NAJ comes with various restrictions, such as "no lending, no copying, no photography," making it difficult for researchers to share evidence with the public, said Matsuno. When it comes to the personal information of Japanese military personnel, Japan often cites "protecting individual privacy" as a reason to impede researchers. Unless one is a direct relative, access to such information is typically denied. "Currently, nobody knows how many unprocessed historical materials remain at the NAJ," Matsuno noted. "This list clearly shows that there were at least 1,129 vacant positions in Unit 731 due to reorganization and expansion. Despite the severe shortage of personnel, the general staff office still ordered the unit to carry out bacteriological warfare in places like Ningbo and Quzhou in China's Zhejiang Province," he said. This document also exposed a lie told by a key war criminal named Naeo Ikeda. In the 1980s, Keio University professor Takao Matsumura and several other scholars discovered a first-hand report authored by "Major Ikeda" as the person in charge, which documented skin injuries and deaths of prisoners resulting from the use of poison gas by Unit 731 in Heilongjiang. When confronted with this report, Ikeda, who was alive at the time, denied involvement, claiming that he "was not serving at Unit 731 in 1940 and could not have participated in such experiments." However, his name now appears on the staff list as the only individual surnamed Ikeda. This revelation confirmed that Ikeda was responsible for poison gas experiments conducted by Unit 731. Matsuno explained that newly-discovered documents that listed names and ranks of senior officers and staff at another Imperial Japanese Army facility called the Kwantung Army Warhorse Disease Prevention Factory, pertained to the activities of Japan's Unit 100, another germ warfare army often referred to as the "Evil Brothers" alongside Unit 731. Historical materials related to Unit 100 have been scarce, making these documents vital for further understanding the war crimes committed by the Japanese Imperial Army in China. "Discovering more historical materials brings us closer to the true and complete history," Matsuno remarked. "In the future, I will continue to explore more historical truths and share them with as many people as possible. We must not allow such human tragedies to happen again, and this is the important responsibility of historians like us." Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a crucial cabinet meeting on Monday evening. The meeting assumed significance is it came in the wake of Modis statement earlier in the day that the special session of parliament is going to be one with historic decisions. Now, while taking forward the journey from a new place...we have to make the country a developed country by 2047. For this, all the decisions of the time to come will be taken in the new Parliament building, Modi had said. The cabinet meeting followed a series of meetings between senior members of the ministry. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi held talks with Home Minister Amit Shah in the presence of BJP chief J.P. Nadda. The five-day special session began on Monday. The House proceedings will move to to the new parliament building on Tuesday. The government earlier informed that a total of eight bills have been listed for consideration and passage during the session. Also, the floor leaders were on Sunday informed at an all-party meeting that a bill on the welfare of senior citizens and three related to SC/ST order have been added to the agenda. Meanwhile, there is a buzz on whether the women's reservation bill will be brought up during the five-day session. The Congress Working Committee, held in Hyderabad, had demanded that the Womens Reservation Bill must be passed during the Special Session of Parliament. Several parties, including from the ruling and opposition sides, on Sunday made a strong pitch for tabling and passage of the women's reservation bill during the five-day Parliament session beginning Monday. The Supreme Court on Monday directed the Maharashtra assembly speaker to spell out the timeline within a week for adjudication of the disqualification petitions filed against Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Shiv Sena MLAs loyal to him who had tied up with the BJP to form a new government in June 2022, saying apparently nothing has been done so far despite its direction for deciding the pleas within reasonable time. This cannot go on indefinitely. Tell us about the time schedule, the bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra told Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who was representing Maharashtra assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar. The top court referred to its May 11 verdict on the Maharashtra political crisis and the direction it had issued to the speaker to decide the disqualification petitions within a reasonable time. The order of this court requires the speaker to decide the disqualification petitions within a reasonable period. While this court is cognizant of the need to ensure the sense of comity....we would equally expect deference and dignity to the directions issued by us in the exercise of court's constitutional power of judicial review, the bench said. We now direct that the proceedings shall be listed before the speaker, who is constituted as a tribunal under the 10th schedule of the Constitution, no later than within a period of one week wherein the procedural directions shall be issued for completing the record and setting out the time schedule for the hearing of the disqualification proceedings, it ordered. The court asked the solicitor general to apprise the bench of the time schedule to be fixed by the speaker for deciding the pleas for disqualification of 56 MLAs including lawmakers belonging to the Shinde faction. At the outset, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the Uddahav Thackeray faction, said the separate plea challenging the Election Commission's decision to grant recognition to the Shinde-led bloc as real Shiv Sena may be heard later. He, however, sought urgent hearing of the petition seeking a direction to the speaker to decide the disqualification pleas by Thackeray camp and alleged an illegal government was in power in the state. The solicitor general opposed the submissions, asserting they ridiculed the office of the assembly speaker which was a constitutional office like the court. We don't like the ridiculing manner in which this is presented. I have to go by the data, the rules. Why they are not circulating documents that is between them. I am an adjudicating authority, the law officer said, seeking to explain the delay. But, he (speaker) has to decide. He can't do this...What did the speaker do after the May 11 judgement by the court? It appears that nothing has happened, the bench said, adding the office of the speaker is also a tribunal under the Constitution and hence amenable to the court's jurisdiction. Sibal said the Thackeray faction made three representations on May 15, 23 and June 2 for early adjudication of the disqualification petitions but there was no response from the office of the speaker. Then we filed a petition on July 4. The notice was issued on July 14. When we approached the speaker, there were 100 replies by each MLA. This is a very serious issue... each of these 100 matters will be tried separately, Sibal said. The senior lawyer said the speaker called the matters on September 14, apparently after coming to know that the top court has listed the petition for hearing. The Uddhav Thackeray faction had moved the apex court in July seeking direction to the state assembly speaker to expeditiously adjudicate the disqualification petitions in a time-bound manner. The plea by Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) MLA Sunil Prabhu, who as the chief whip of the undivided Shiv Sena had filed the disqualification petitions against Shinde and other MLAs in 2022, alleged Speaker Rahul Narwekar is deliberately delaying the adjudication despite the verdict of the apex court. "The petitioner is constrained to invoke the extraordinary jurisdiction of this court under Article 32 of the Constitution of India, in light of the respondent Speaker's conduct in choosing to deliberately delay the adjudication of the disqualification petitions filed by the Petitioner against the delinquent members of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly," the plea filed through advocate Amit Anand Tiwari said. It said the speaker, despite the categorical direction of the top court in its May 11 judgment that the pending disqualification petitions must be decided within a reasonable period, has chosen to not conduct a single hearing. Prabhu, in his petition said, "Therefore, it is imperative for this court to direct the Speaker, Maharashtra legislative assembly, to decide the disqualification petitions filed by the petitioner against delinquent members of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly expeditiously, within a time-bound manner." On May 11, the top court had ruled that Eknath Shinde will continue to be the chief minister of Maharashtra as it cannot reinstate the MVA coalition government headed by Uddhav Thackeray since the Shiv Sena leader chose to resign without facing a floor test in the wake of a rebellion in his party. The unanimous verdict by a five-judge constitution bench had come as a massive relief for Shinde. The apex court had censured Bhagat Singh Koshyari, who was the Maharashtra governor during the political turmoil, over his decision calling upon Thackeray to prove his majority in the assembly based on a request by the Shinde faction. Shinde, who led the rebellion against Thackeray, sparking a nine-day political crisis in June last year, later joined hands with the BJP to form a government. Refusing to disqualify the 16 rebel Shiv Sena MLAs including Shinde, the bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud had said the court cannot ordinarily adjudicate disqualification petitions under the anti-defection law, and directed Speaker Rahul Narwekar to take a decision on the pending matter within a "reasonable period". The AIADMK in Tamil Nadu on Monday announced that it is not in alliance with the BJP anymore and any decision on this will be taken during the election. BJP is not in alliance with the AIADMK. We will decide about the alliance during the elections. This is not my personal view. This is our partys view. BJP cadres want an alliance with the AIADMK. Annamalai doesnt want an alliance. He always criticises our leaders. He is unfit to be BJP state president, says AIADMK spokesperson and former minister D. Jayakumar. Just a couple of days before, when BJP was gearing up to meet leaders of its alliance partners before the parliament session, Palanisami flew from Chennai to Delhi to call on Amit Shah and BJP leader J.P. Nadda. The meeting lasted for more than two hours. While Tamil TV channels called it a meeting to discuss Lok Sabha election seat sharing, highly placed sources within the AIADMK told THE WEEK that Palanisami promised all support during the parliament session to Shah and Nadda, even when the AIADMK doesnt have big numbers. After coming back, sources say that the second-rank leaders like C.Ve. Shanmugam and others who werent happy with Palanisami's posturing before the Delhi leaders and also Annamalais growing clout within the alliance, decided to call it off. It all began with Shanmugam, criticising Annamalai during a public meeting. Annamalai in return criticised the AIADMK leaders saying they are crossing their limits. However, this is not the first time that the AIADMK has said that there are no ties with the BJP and that the alliance will be decided in the run-up to the election. During the Erode East Assembly bypoll, the two parties - particularly the second-rank leaders of the AIADMK and BJP chief Annamalai were at loggerheads. The television channels ran hourlong debates and discussions on the rift in the alliance. But, within a week, Palanisami along with his party colleagues and Annamalai went all the way to Delhi to call on Amit Shah. Coming out after the meeting he said the alliance continues. In the past six years, since the death of Jayalalithaa, Palanisami has neither criticised the BJP nor said that his party will not continue in the NDA alliance. After the INDIA alliance meeting in Patna, when NDA partners met under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Edappadi Palanisami rushed to Delhi and ensured that he gets space next to Modi while posing for photos. In fact, Palanisami, a few weeks later in his off-record chat with opinion makers and a few journalists in Chennai, had expressed that the alliance with the BJP has come a long way and there is no looking back. He even expressed that breaking the alliance may cost the party and his leadership position. Incidentally, the AIADMK doesnt have the liberty or the manoeuvring space to walk out of the NDA. There are eight former ministers under the ED scanner and most of them are in close contacts with the Delhi high command. While AIADMK doesnt have the guts to jettison the BJP, the national party doesnt have any other option other than aligning with the former. But if EPS thinks otherwise, then AIADMK may witness many twists and turns. No wonder he might have surprises within the party and visitors from the ED and the CBI. The Union cabinet has given its approval for a bill to ensure reservation of 33 per cent seats for women in Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies, reports claimed on Monday. The government, however, has not made any official announcement as it skipped the customary press briefing after the cabinet meeting. The bill is likely to be tabled in parliament during the five-day special session which began on Monday. "Only the Modi government had the moral courage to fulfill the demand for women's reservation. Which was proved by the approval of the cabinet. Congratulations @narendramodi ji and congratulations to the Modi government," Union minister Pralhad Singh Patel tweeted. The bill, officially known as the Constitution (One Hundred and Eighth Amendment) Bill, 2008, was first introduced in the Rajya Sabha by the previous Manmohan Singh government. It has not yet been introduced in the Lok Sabha. Besides calling for reservation of 33 per cent seats for women in Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies, the bill also mandates that one third of the total seats reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes should be allocated for women from those groups. As per the bill, the reservation of seats for women will cease to exist 15 years after the commencement of the Amendment Act. The Congress party was quick to welcome the cabinet decision. Senior leader Jairam Ramesh, however, said the government should have discussed this at the all party meeting before the special session and built consensus among the parties. Its been a long-standing demand of the Congress party to implement womens reservation. We welcome the reported decision of the Union Cabinet and await the details of the Bill. This could have very well been discussed in the all-party meeting before the Special Session, and consensus could have been built instead of operating under a veil of secrecy, he said in a tweet. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the key cabinet meeting at the Parliament House Annexe in the evening, amid speculation that it may clear some important legislative proposals. The meeting had spike interest as it came in the wake of Modis statement earlier in the day that the parliaments special session, which began on Monday, is going to be one with historic decisions. Now, while taking forward the journey from a new place...we have to make the country a developed country by 2047. For this, all the decisions of the time to come will be taken in the new Parliament building, Modi had said. The cabinet meeting also followed a series of meetings between senior members of the ministry. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi held talks with Home Minister Amit Shah in the presence of BJP chief J.P. Nadda. Earlier, speaking in Lok Sabha, Modi had said the contribution of women parliamentarians has been on the rise over the years. He said more than 7,500 public representatives have served in both Houses whereas the number of women representatives has been approximately 600. The five-day special session began on Monday and both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were adjourned after a discussion on parliamentary democracy in the last 75 years. The House proceedings will move to to the new parliament building on Tuesday. The government earlier informed that a total of eight bills have been listed for consideration and passage during the session. Also, the floor leaders were on Sunday informed at an all-party meeting that a bill on the welfare of senior citizens and three related to SC/ST order have been added to the agenda. Meanwhile, there was a buzz on whether the women's reservation bill will be brought up during the five-day session. The Congress Working Committee, held in Hyderabad, had demanded that the Womens Reservation Bill must be passed during the Special Session of Parliament. Several parties, including from the ruling and opposition sides, on Sunday made a strong pitch for tabling and passage of the women's reservation bill during the five-day Parliament session beginning Monday. The Ukraine cabinet on Monday dismissed all six deputy defence ministers and secretary of defence allegedly over corruption charges. The move comes within weeks of the dismissal of former defence minister Oleksii Reznikov following reports of corruption in the procurement of military equipment. According to reports, deputy defence ministers Hanna Maliar, Volodymyr Havrylov, Rostyslav Zamlynskyi, Denys Sharapov, Andrii Shevchenko, and Vitalii Deineha were dismissed on Monday. The cabinet also dismissed the state secretary for defence Kostiantyn Vashchenko. The Kyiv Independent reported former minister Oleksii Reznikov's tenure at the Defense Ministry was marred by several scandals related to the procurement of equipment and supplies for Ukrainian forces. Deputy defence ministers including Hanna Maliar, Vitalii Deyneha and Denys Sharapov, as well as the state secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Kostiantyn Vashchenko, were fired, according to the Telegram account of Taras Melnychuk, permanent representative of the Cabinet of Ministers. Melnychuk provided no explanation of the firings, but the government has been investigating accusations of corruption in the military-related to purchasing equipment. Rustem Umerov, a Crimean Tatar lawmaker who took over as defence minister, did not immediately issue a statement. Reznikov was removed earlier this month after a scandal involving the defence ministry's procurement of military jackets at three times their cost. Reznikov denied the allegations but resigned. The reshuffling of the department came a day after Ukraine's military said it captured the village of Klishchiivka from Russian troops after months of fierce battles. Fighting continued Monday as troops tried to hold the village south of the Russian-held city of Bakhmut in the eastern Donetsk region. Its recapture followed the retaking of the nearby village of Andriivka. The enemy is trying with all his might to regain lost positions, Maliar said in a briefing Monday before she was fired. "Therefore, our fighters hold back the enemy's attacks there and are entrenched at the achieved frontiers. Retaking Klishchiivka is considered tactically important, allowing Ukrainian forces to further extend their gains around Bakhmut. Ukrainian forces have said they have reclaimed Klishchiivka, a tactically important town south of Bakhmut. Klishchiivka was cleared of Russians, Oleksandr Syrsky, the commander of the Ukrainian militarys ground forces, said on social media, Al Jazeera reported. Volodymyr Zelenskyy's Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak, added: Klishchiivka is Ukraine. I am grateful to the soldiers for the de-occupation of Ukrainian land. The town was captured by Russian forces in January. The victory comes at a time when Zelenskyy prepares for his second wartime visit to Washington in a bid to rally support. Zelenskyy in his evening address to the nation praised the soldiers fighting near Bakhmut. "We have now gained a staging ground, which will in the future allow us to continue to develop offensive actions and liberate our land from the occupiers," Ilya Yevlash, spokesman for Ukrainian troops in the east said in an interview, AFP reported. He added the victory could help the troops encircle Bakhmut, and hopefully recapture it. General Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said that the current counteroffensive by Ukraine was "slower than the planners had anticipated, (but) it has been steady." He also said that it is going to take a long time to eject Russian troops out of Russian-occupied Ukraine. "Most wars last longer than expected when they first begin," NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg told Germany's Funke media group. United States military officials are searching for a missing F-35 fighter jet, fifth-generation stealth fighter, after its pilot ejected safely over South Carolina on Sunday afternoon. Joint Base Charleston, airforce base in North Charleston, in a post on X sought the help of the public to provide any information regarding the missing jet. The airforce is coordinating with the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort to locate the missing aircraft. Emergency response teams have been deployed to find the jet as well. In a statement on Facebook, Joint Base Charleston said that "Based on the jet's last kown position and in coordination with the FAA, we are focusing our attention north of JB Charleston, around Lake Moultrie and Late Marion." Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the airforce base said that the pilot ejected safely and sought public's help in locating the aircraft. Were working with @MCASBeaufortSC to locate an F-35 that was involved in a mishap this afternoon. The pilot ejected safely. If you have any information that may help our recovery teams locate the F-35, please call the Base Defense Operations Center at 843-963-3600. Joint Base Charleston (@TeamCharleston) September 17, 2023 Reportedly, the pilot was found on South Kenwood Drive in North Charleston after the pilot ejected safely. Also investigation is underway to find out the reason on what forced the pilot to eject. Reportedly, the planes and pilots were part of Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501, which is based in Beaufort. F-35 represents the leading edge of US fighter technology. The aircraft was displayed during the Aero India 2023. The F-35 stealth fighter can carry out air strikes on ground targets as well as engage other aircraft in air superiority missions as well. Kolkata, Sep 18 (PTI) Marquee investors-backed Ummeed Housing Finance (UHFPL), a digital affordable housing finance company, on Monday said it has received a sanction of up to USD 20 million (about Rs 160 crore) from the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC). The funding will be used to provide long-tenure housing finance to the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), Lower-Income Groups (LIGs) and Middle-Income Groups (MIGs) in Tier 2, 3 & 4 cities in the country, the company said in a statement. The company said it is backed by the four marquee investors -- Norwest Venture Partners, Morgan Stanley Private Equity Asia, Lightrock, and CX Partners. "This is an important transaction that will provide vital financing to support increased access to affordable housing in India," said James Polan, Vice President of DFC's Office of Development Credit. DFC is the US government's development finance institution that works with the private sector to channel development capital into emerging markets. DFC is partnering with UHFPL to fund about 2,000 new, low-ticket mortgages, averaging USD 11,600 in size, with tenures of up to 15 years, the lender said. "This DFC facility allows us to extend long-dated credit to the under-banked population to assist with home purchases, construction, and extension in the affordable segment. Our programme strongly encourages women co-ownership on these loans and properties," UHFPL Founder & Managing Director Ashutosh Sharma said. The project is expected to create a positive impact in Tier 2, 3 & 4 cities of the country by improving access to institutionalised credit through affordable housing finance. UHFPL operates through 84 branches in seven states across north and central India, the statement said, adding that the mortgage lender has Rs 1,350-crore plus assets under management. , Sep 18 (AP) Five prisoners sought by the US in a swap with Iran flew out of Tehran on Monday, officials said, part of a deal that saw nearly USD 6 billion in Iranian assets unfrozen. Despite the deal, tensions are almost certain to remain high between the US and Iran, which are locked in various disputes, including over Tehran's nuclear programme. Iran says the programme is peaceful, but it now enriches uranium closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. The planned exchange has unfolded amid a major American military buildup in the Persian Gulf, with the possibility of US troops boarding and guarding commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of all oil shipments pass. Two people, including a senior Biden administration official, said that the prisoners left Tehran on Monday. They spoke on condition of anonymity because the exchange was ongoing. In addition to the five freed Americans, two US family members flew out, according to the Biden administration official. Flight-tracking data showed a Qatar Airways flight take off from Tehran's Mehrabad International Airport, which has been used for exchanges in the past. Several of the former prisoners could be seen climbing the stairs to the flight in video released by Iranian media. The plane was expected to land in Doha, Qatar. Meanwhile, Nour News, a website believed to be close to Iran's security apparatus, said two of the Iranian prisoners had arrived in Doha for the swap. Earlier, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani said that the exchange would take place Monday after nearly USD 6 billion in once-frozen Iranian assets reached Qatar. Fortunately Iran's frozen assets in South Korea were released and God willing today the assets will start to be fully controlled by the government and the nation, Kanaani said. On the subject of the prisoner swap, it will happen today and five prisoners, citizens of the Islamic Republic, will be released from the prisons in the U.S., he added. Five imprisoned citizens who were in Iran will be given to the U.S. side. He said two of the Iranian prisoners will stay in the US. Mohammad Reza Farzin, Iran's Central Bank chief, later came on state television to acknowledge the receipt of over 5.5 billion euros USD 5.9 billion in accounts in Qatar. Months ago, Iran had anticipated getting as much as USD 7 billion. The planned exchange comes ahead of the convening of world leaders at the U.N. General Assembly this week in New York, where Iran's hard-line President Ebrahim Raisi will speak. The deal has already opened U.S. President Joe Biden to fresh criticism from Republicans and others who say that the administration is helping boost the Iranian economy at a time when Iran poses a growing threat to American troops and Mideast allies. That could have implications in his reelection campaign as well. On the U.S. side, Washington has said the planned swap includes Siamak Namazi, who was detained in 2015 and was later sentenced to 10 years in prison on spying charges; Emad Sharghi, a venture capitalist sentenced to 10 years; and Morad Tahbaz, a British-American conservationist of Iranian descent who was arrested in 2018 and also received a 10-year sentence. All of their charges have been widely criticised by their families, activists and the U.S. government. U.S. officials have so far declined to identify the fourth and fifth prisoner. The five prisoners Iran has said it seeks are mostly held over allegedly trying to export banned material to Iran, such as dual use electronics that can be used by a military. The two that Nour News said were in Doha were: Mehrdad Ansari, an Iranian sentenced to 63 months in prison in 2021 for obtaining equipment that could be used in missiles, electronic warfare, nuclear weapons and other military gear, and Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani, an Iranian charged in 2021 over allegedly unlawfully exporting laboratory equipment to Iran. The cash represents money South Korea owed Iran but had not yet paid for oil purchased before the U.S. imposed sanctions on such transactions in 2019. The U.S. maintains that, once in Qatar, the money will be held in restricted accounts and will only be able to be used for humanitarian goods, such as medicine and food. Those transactions are currently allowed under American sanctions targeting the Islamic Republic over its advancing nuclear program. Iranian government officials have largely concurred with that explanation, though some hard-liners have insisted, without providing evidence, that there would be no restrictions on how Tehran spends the money. Iran and the U.S. have a history of prisoner swaps dating back to the 1979 U.S. Embassy takeover and hostage crisis following the Islamic Revolution. Their most recent major exchange happened in 2016, when Iran came to a deal with world powers to restrict its nuclear program in return for an easing of sanctions. The West accuses Iran of using foreign prisoners including those with dual nationality as bargaining chips, an allegation Tehran rejects. Negotiations over a major prisoner swap faltered after then-President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew America from the nuclear deal in 2018. From the following year on, a series of attacks and ship seizures attributed to Iran have raised tensions. Meanwhile, Iran's nuclear program now enriches closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. While the head of the United Nations' nuclear watchdog has warned that Iran now has enough enriched uranium to produce several bombs, months more would likely be needed to build a weapon and potentially miniaturize it to put it on a missile if Iran decided to pursue one. Iran maintains its nuclear program is peaceful, and the U.S. intelligence community has kept its assessment that Iran is not pursuing an atomic bomb. Iran has taken steps in recent months to settle some issues with the International Atomic Energy Agency. But the advances in its program have led to fears of a wider regional conflagration as Israel, itself a nuclear power, has said it would not allow Tehran to develop the bomb. Israel bombed both Iraq and Syria to stop their nuclear programs, giving the threat more weight. It also is suspected in carrying out a series of killings targeting Iran's nuclear scientists. Iran also supplies Russia with the bomb-carrying drones Moscow uses to target sites in Ukraine in its war on Kyiv, which remains another major dispute between Tehran and Washington. (AP) NSA NSA , Sep 18 (AP) Six Ukrainian deputy defence ministers were fired Monday following the dismissal two weeks ago of Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov in a corruption scandal, officials said, as heavy fighting continued in the east. Russia claimed to have struck key Ukrainian facilities in air attacks overnight, hitting stores of Storm Shadow missiles and depleted uranium ammunition along with electronic intelligence centers and training facilities for Ukrainian military scouts. The deputy defence ministers fired included Hanna Maliar, Vitalii Deyneha and Denys Sharapov, as well as the state secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Kostiantyn Vashchenko, were fired, according to the Telegram account of Taras Melnychuk, permanent representative of the Cabinet of Ministers. Melnychuk provided no explanation of the firings, but the government has been investigating accusations of corruption in the military related to purchasing equipment. Rustem Umerov, a Crimean Tatar lawmaker who took over as defence minister, did not immediately issue a statement. Reznikov was removed earlier this month after a scandal involving the defence ministry's procurement of military jackets at three times their cost. Reznikov denied the allegations but resigned. The reshuffling of the department came a day after Ukraine's military said it captured the village of Klishchiivka from Russian troops after months of fierce battles. Fighting continued Monday as troops tried to hold the village south of the Russian-held city of Bakhmut in the eastern Donetsk region. Its recapture followed the retaking of the nearby village of Andriivka. The enemy is trying with all his might to regain lost positions, Maliar said in a briefing Monday before she was fired. "Therefore, our fighters hold back the enemy's attacks there and are entrenched at the achieved frontiers. Retaking Klishchiivka is considered tactically important, allowing Ukrainian forces to further extend their gains around Bakhmut. Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. Ukraine launched a counteroffensive in June that so far has been marked by small victories but no major breakthroughs. Despite being bolstered by NATO-standard weapons worth billions of dollars, Ukrainian military officials have said there are no quick solutions to puncture Russian defensive lines only slow, grinding battles that have led to heavy losses. In his efforts to draw more support, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is headed to the U.S. where he is expected at the White House and on Capitol Hill this week as he visits during the United Nations General Assembly. His visit to Washington comes as Congress debates President Joe Biden's request to provide as much as $24 billion in military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine. In other fighting, six civilians were killed and 16 injured over the past 24 hours as Russia claimed to have used long-range air-launched missiles and drones to strike U.K.-supplied missiles and depleted uranium ammunition that can be used to destroy tanks. The goal of the strike has been fulfilled, all the designated facilities have been struck, the ministry said without providing specifics. The claims appeared to contradict Ukraine's assertion that it intercepted all 17 cruise missiles launched by Russia and 18 of 24 Shahed drones in the southern regions of Mykolaiv and Odesa early Monday. There was no way to verify the conflicting claims. Russians attacked residential areas in eight cities and villages in the Donetsk region, including Avdiivka and Kurdiumivka, killing one and wounding four, it said. Five artillery attacks in Kherson killed one person and wounded another. In the nearby town of Beryslav, Russians dropped explosives from a drone near the local bus station, injuring four people, the presidential office said. Oleh Kiper, regional governor of Odesa, said a recreational facility in the town of Vylkovo was damaged in the attack but no casualties were immediately reported. Vylkovo, often referred to as the Ukrainian Venice because of its numerous canals, is located in the Danube delta on the border with Romania. Romania has recently reported several findings of fragments from drones similar to those used by Russia in attacks on Ukraine's ports on the other side of the Danube. Neighbouring Bulgaria on Monday said a specialist navy team carried out a controlled explosion of a mortar shell found attached to a drone in the Black Sea coastal area of Tyulenovo. Bulgaria's Defence Minister Todor Tagarev said it wasn't clear when or how the drone ended up there, but said it most likely was carried by the sea to the coastal town situated about 30 kilometers (18.5 miles) south of the Romanian border. I have not been informed that our air defence system has detected such an object, but they are difficult to locate, Tagarev said. Such incidents happen weekly, the Bulgarian army has teams to locate and destroy unexploded ordnance. (AP) NSA NSA NEW YORK, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- United Auto Workers (UAW) union and the Big 3 auto companies were set to resume talks on Sunday, being seemingly no closer to reaching deals than they were when autoworkers went on strike on Friday. The union has rejected an offer from U.S. automaker Stellantis to increase workers' wages by 21 percent, Shawn Fain, head of UAW said on Sunday. "I don't really want to say we're closer," he said. "It's a shame that the companies didn't take our advice and get down to business from the beginning." Fain repeatedly cited the 40-percent pay raises for the Big 3 CEOs over the past four years, which are in stark contrast with the 6-percent raises autoworkers have received since their last contract in 2019. CEO pay has ballooned for decades, while wages for ordinary workers have lagged. "It's definitely a no-go. We've made that very clear to the companies," Fain said in an interview. As the days of the strike increase, so will its impact. In a statement Saturday, Ford says 600 workers were laid off from their Michigan assembly plant because of a halt in production when their paint department was called to strike. Facing the laid-off, Fain responded that these workers won't go without income and said this is only a tactic being used for the union to settle for less. He criticized the company's behavior, saying it sees the workers as bargaining chips. The union had talks with Ford on Saturday. It was going back to the bargaining table on Sunday with General Motors and plans to talk with Stellantis on Monday, a spokesman said. Doha (Qatar), Sep 18 (AP) Five prisoners sought by the US in a swap with Iran flew out of Tehran on Monday, officials said, part of a deal that saw nearly USD 6 billion in Iranian assets unfrozen. Despite the deal, tensions are almost certain to remain high between the U.S. and Iran, which are locked in various disputes, including over Tehran's nuclear programme. Iran says the programme is peaceful, but it now enriches uranium closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. The planned exchange has unfolded amid a major American military buildup in the Persian Gulf, with the possibility of US troops boarding and guarding commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of all oil shipments pass. Two people, including a senior Biden administration official, said that the prisoners left Tehran on Monday. They spoke on condition of anonymity because the exchange was ongoing. In addition to the five freed Americans, two U.S. family members flew out, according to the Biden administration official. Flight-tracking data showed a Qatar Airways flight take off from Tehran's Mehrabad International Airport, which has been used for exchanges in the past. Several of the former prisoners could be seen climbing the stairs to the flight in video released by Iranian media. The plane later landed in Doha, Qatar. Meanwhile, Nour News, a website believed to be close to Iran's security apparatus, said two of the Iranian prisoners had arrived in Doha for the swap. Earlier, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani said that the exchange would take place Monday after nearly USD 6 billion in once-frozen Iranian assets reached Qatar. Fortunately Iran's frozen assets in South Korea were released and God willing today the assets will start to be fully controlled by the government and the nation, Kanaani said. On the subject of the prisoner swap, it will happen today and five prisoners, citizens of the Islamic Republic, will be released from the prisons in the U.S., he added. Five imprisoned citizens who were in Iran will be given to the U.S. side. He said two of the Iranian prisoners will stay in the U.S. Mohammad Reza Farzin, Iran's Central Bank chief, later came on state television to acknowledge the receipt of over 5.5 billion euros - USD 5.9 billion - in accounts in Qatar. Months ago, Iran had anticipated getting as much as USD 7 billion. The planned exchange comes ahead of the convening of world leaders at the U.N. General Assembly this week in New York, where Iran's hard-line President Ebrahim Raisi will speak. The deal has already opened U.S. President Joe Biden to fresh criticism from Republicans and others who say that the administration is helping boost the Iranian economy at a time when Iran poses a growing threat to American troops and Mideast allies. That could have implications in his reelection campaign as well. On the U.S. side, Washington has said the planned swap includes Siamak Namazi, who was detained in 2015 and was later sentenced to 10 years in prison on spying charges; Emad Sharghi, a venture capitalist sentenced to 10 years; and Morad Tahbaz, a British-American conservationist of Iranian descent who was arrested in 2018 and also received a 10-year sentence. All of their charges have been widely criticized by their families, activists and the U.S. government. U.S. officials have so far declined to identify the fourth and fifth prisoner. The five prisoners Iran has said it seeks are mostly held over allegedly trying to export banned material to Iran, such as dual use electronics that can be used by a military. The two that Nour News said were in Doha were: Mehrdad Ansari, an Iranian sentenced to 63 months in prison in 2021 for obtaining equipment that could be used in missiles, electronic warfare, nuclear weapons and other military gear, and Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani, an Iranian charged in 2021 over allegedly unlawfully exporting laboratory equipment to Iran. The cash represents money South Korea owed Iran - but had not yet paid - for oil purchased before the U.S. imposed sanctions on such transactions in 2019. The U.S. maintains that, once in Qatar, the money will be held in restricted accounts and will only be able to be used for humanitarian goods, such as medicine and food. Those transactions are currently allowed under American sanctions targeting the Islamic Republic over its advancing nuclear program. Iranian government officials have largely concurred with that explanation, though some hard-liners have insisted, without providing evidence, that there would be no restrictions on how Tehran spends the money. Iran and the U.S. have a history of prisoner swaps dating back to the 1979 U.S. Embassy takeover and hostage crisis following the Islamic Revolution. Their most recent major exchange happened in 2016, when Iran came to a deal with world powers to restrict its nuclear program in return for an easing of sanctions. The West accuses Iran of using foreign prisoners - including those with dual nationality - as bargaining chips, an allegation Tehran rejects. Negotiations over a major prisoner swap faltered after then-President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew America from the nuclear deal in 2018. From the following year on, a series of attacks and ship seizures attributed to Iran have raised tensions. Meanwhile, Iran's nuclear program now enriches closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. While the head of the United Nations' nuclear watchdog has warned that Iran now has enough enriched uranium to produce several bombs, months more would likely be needed to build a weapon and potentially miniaturize it to put it on a missile - if Iran decided to pursue one. Iran maintains its nuclear program is peaceful, and the U.S. intelligence community has kept its assessment that Iran is not pursuing an atomic bomb. Iran has taken steps in recent months to settle some issues with the International Atomic Energy Agency. But the advances in its program have led to fears of a wider regional conflagration as Israel, itself a nuclear power, has said it would not allow Tehran to develop the bomb. Israel bombed both Iraq and Syria to stop their nuclear programs, giving the threat more weight. It also is suspected in carrying out a series of killings targeting Iran's nuclear scientists. Iran also supplies Russia with the bomb-carrying drones Moscow uses to target sites in Ukraine in its war on Kyiv, which remains another major dispute between Tehran and Washington. (AP) NSA NSA Bhubaneswar, Sep 18 (PTI) More than 1.3 lakh primary school teachers of Odisha on Monday called off their 11-day-old agitation after holding discussions with the state government. Demanding abolition of the contractual appointment system, hike in grade pay and restoration of the old pension scheme, over 1.30 lakh primary school teachers have been staging protests since September 8. "The state government has sought time to consider our demands. Expressing our confidence in the government's assurance, we have decided to call off our agitation," said Charulata Mohapatra, secretary general of All Utkal Primary Teachers Federation. However, a fraction of the teachers have opposed the decision of the federation. "The state government has not fulfilled any of our demands. Many teachers bodies have suggested to continue the protest. However, the secretary general of the federation announced to call off the strike on her own," said Suresh Chandra Pradha, convenor of Western Odisha Primary Teachers Association. Earlier in the day, the Odisha government held a discussion with agitating primary school teachers and appealed to them to withdraw their protest. A meeting of the inter-ministerial committee was held here at the Lok Seva Bhawan, in which representatives of the All Utkal Primary Teachers Federation participated, Finance Minister Bikram Keshari Arukha said. "Demands of the All Utkal Primary Teachers Federation were discussed in detail at the meeting. The school and mass education department has been directed to examine their demands and take appropriate action in the coming days," Arukha said. Stating that the state government is actively considering their demands, the minister had requested the teachers to end the protest and join duty. Srinagar, Sep 18 (PTI) A militant opened fire Monday on a moving security forces' vehicle in the Khanyar area of the city but no one was injured, officials said. The lone militant fired from his pistol on the bullet-proof CRPF vehicle at the Khwaja Bazaar chowk around 7.00 pm, the officials said. He fled from the spot after firing, they said, adding there was no death or injury in the incident. There was an attempted attack by a terrorist on the bullet-proof vehicle of the CRPF in Khanyar area which was repelled by alert personnel, a police spokesman said. "The terrorist was chased away by personnel, who showed wise restraint due to potential collateral damage. No injury to life or property reported," the Srinagar Police posted on X. Gurugram, Sep 18 (PTI) A 24-year-old man associated with the Sunder Bhati gang was arrested for allegedly robbing a Delhi Police constable of his car, officials said on Monday. Mahesh alias Mundi (24), a resident of Shahbajpur village in Rewari district, was arrested by a team of crime unit, Palam Vihar, on Sunday night from Kasola Chowk and the stolen car was also seized, they said, adding his accomplice is still at large. Two unidentified armed men had robbed a Delhi Police constable of his car at gunpoint on SPR Road while he was going for the G-20 security duty on September 9. During interrogation, Mahesh revealed that he, along with his associate, had robbed the car to use it for a killing to avenge his brother's murder, police said. According to police, two persons belonging to the accused's village had killed his brother in 2014. Manoj Bhati of the Bhati gang was arrested from Mahesh's house in 2022 and his weapon was left at the house, which he wanted to use for the revenge killing, police said. The arrested accused has a previous criminal record. Total six cases were already registered against him, including two cases of robbery, at Kherki Daula police station in Gurugram, while four cases under the NDPS Act and the Arms Act were registered at Kasola police station in Rewari," said Varun Dahiya, ACP (crime). "We have recovered the stolen car and are conducting raids to nab the accomplice of the accused," said Dahiya. Westerly, RI (02891) Today Considerable cloudiness. Occasional rain showers in the afternoon. High 48F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.. Tonight A mostly clear sky. Low 31F. Winds light and variable. Alisha Alderson who is due to give birth in September, sits in the living room of her house in Baker City, Ore., on Thursday, Aug. 31, 2023. Because of the closing of Baker City's only obstetrical unit, the Anderson family is traveling to the Boise, Idaho area, a little over 100 miles away, to give birth. Alisha will be spending time with family in Kuna, Idaho for 3 weeks until she gives birth or is induced the third week of September. (AP Photo/Kyle Green) Two cargo ships arrived in one of Ukraines ports over the weekend, using a temporary Black Sea corridor established by Kyiv following Russias withdrawal from a wartime agreement designed to ensure safe grain exports from the invaded countrys ports. Two Palau-flagged bulk carriers, Aroyat and Resilient Africa, docked Saturday at the seaport of Chornomorsk in the southern Odesa region, according to an online statement by the Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority. The vessels are the first civilian cargo ships to reach one of the Odesa ports since Russia exited the grain deal. Oleksandr Kubrakov, Ukraines deputy prime minister, said in an online statement Saturday that the two ships will be delivering some 20,000 tons of wheat to countries in Africa and Asia. For months, Ukraine, whose economy is heavily dependent on farming, was able to safely export its grain from Black Sea ports under a deal brokered by the United Nations and Turkey to ensure safe shipments. But Russia withdrew from the deal on July 17, with Kremlin officials arguing their demands for the facilitation of Russian food and fertilizer shipments had not been met. Following the withdrawal, the Russian Defense Ministry said it would regard any vessels in the Black Sea headed to Ukrainian ports as military targets. Since then, Kyiv has sought to reroute transport through the Danube River, and road and rail links into Europe. But transport costs that way are much higher. Some European countries have balked at the consequential local grain prices, and the Danube ports cant handle the same volume as seaports. The interim corridor in the Black Sea, which Kyiv has asked the International Maritime Organization to ratify, was opened on Aug. 10 as United States and Ukrainian officials warned of possible Russian attacks on civilian vessels. Sea mines also make the voyage risky, and ship insurance costs are likely to be high for operators. Ukrainian officials said the corridor will be primarily used to evacuate ships stuck in the Ukrainian ports of Chornomorsk, Odesa and Pivdennyi since the war broke out. Kubrakov said Saturday that five vessels have since used the corridor to leave Ukrainian ports. After tearing up the grain deal, Russia intensified attacks on the southern Odesa region, targeting its port infrastructure and grain silos with missiles and drones. On Sunday, Ukraines Air Force Command reported another attack overnight in which the Odesa region was the main target. Russian forces fired 10 cruise missiles and six Iranian-made Shahed drones, the statement said. All drones and six missiles were downed, while the rest hit an agricultural facility in the Odesa region. In other developments: Ukraines military said Sunday it captured the village of Klishchiivka from Russian troops after months of fierce fighting. The village lies south of the Russian-held city of Bakhmut in the eastern Donetsk region, and its recapture comes days after Ukrainian forces said they liberated the nearby village of Andriivka. There was no immediate comment from Russian officials on the recapture. Gaining Klischiivka signifies an important tactical victory for Ukrainian forces. The commanding heights of the village offers a view into the Russian-occupied town of Bakhmut and opens up new opportunities for Ukrainian forces to encircle the town. It also potentially allows Ukrainians a better view into Russian logistic lines. Russian authorities on Sunday reported that Ukrainian drones targeted the annexed Crimean peninsula and a number of Russian regions overnight and in the morning. Two drones were downed overnight in the Moscow region that surrounds the Russian capital, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said. A third drone was intercepted over the Voronezh region that borders Ukraine, Russias Defense Ministry said. Another one hit a fuel tank in the neighboring Oryol region, Oryol Gov. Andrei Klychkov said, igniting a fire that was quickly put out. A drone also fell on a logistics facility in the Tula region south of Moscow, local authorities said. In the annexed Crimea, the Russian Defense Ministry reported downing six Ukrainian drones in the early hours of Sunday. Ukrainian officials have not commented on the attacks. (AP) Sustainable data centres play an important role in meeting Dubais Net Zero Emissions targets for 2050, experts concurred at the Green Data Centre seminar in Dubai. The event, which gathered over 80 regional experts and data centre industry stakeholders, discussed the pressing need for sustainability in data centre operations, as one of the crucial factors in achieving regional decarbonisation goals. The seminar, co-hosted by Danfoss and DEIF in collaboration with Danish Trade Council, explored the important role energy efficiency must play in data centre sustainability particularly as Dubais digital economy is expected to reach more than $140 billion in 2031, up from todays nearly $38 billion. Energy efficiency progress The event's discussions align with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Global Stocktake report, which underscores the urgent need to reduce global emissions by at least 43% by 2030 to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees, as stipulated in the Paris Agreement. As Dr Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), emphasised, doubling the rate of energy efficiency progress and tripling renewable power capacity globally by 2030 is essential. Data centres, as one of the key industries, have a pivotal role to play in achieving these critical targets. New research from the IEA shows that while the amount of computing done in data centres increased by about 550% between 2010 and 2018, the amount of energy consumed by data centres only grew by 6% during the same time. The difference between these two data-points is striking and is attributed to rapid improvements in energy efficiency that have helped limit energy demand growth from data centres, which accounts for about 1-1.5% of global electricity use. These improvements in energy efficiency need to be sustained and accelerated so as to meet the UNFCCCs global emissions targets. Ziad Al Bawaliz, Regional President at Danfoss Turkey, Middle East, and Africa, emphasised the event's significance, stating: "With the regions booming potential for digital services, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, there is likely to be significant demand growth for data centres in GCC in the next few years. As we head into COP28, energy efficiency will play an increasingly vital role as it is the single largest measure the world can take to reduce energy demand. Energy efficiency is, and always should be, the first fuel for clean energy transitions. Ambassador Lars Steen Nielsen, Consul General of the Embassy of Denmark, who opened the event, commented: Energy efficiency has the potential to be pivotal, and this seminar echoes the COP28 Presidencys call for prioritising energy efficiency on a global scale. We are excited to engage with Danfoss, DEIF, global partners and work towards a greener future. Political facilitation Tomas Anker Christensen, the Climate Ambassador of Denmark, who virtually addressed the audience during the event, added: Denmark has been asked by the UAE presidency of COP28 to lead the political facilitation of the outcome of the global stocktake together with South Africa. One of the central themes at COP28 is the role of technology in our climate efforts. Danish technology holders like Danfoss, DEIF, and many others are at the forefront of developing cutting edge solutions. They can revolutionise industries and future proof them against climate challenges. The event featured engaging panel discussions, with key participants from the Gulf Data Centre Association, Khazna, MORO Hub, Gulf Data Hub, Equinix, Al Masaood, Uptime Institute, who shared their insights into the path to sustainable data centres. The event was aimed at raising awareness of the solutions that exist already to decarbonise data centres and which can significantly contribute towards the regions ambitious decarbonisation goals. Alexandre Maraval, Vice President Asia & Managing Director APAC, DEIF, said: This has been a great event during which we could acknowledge the importance of continuing our efforts in developing solutions based on sustainable sources of energy. We are confident that DEIFs strategy and Energy Management Systems are fully in line with the decarbonisation targets we all understand as a growing necessity for a better future. But at DEIF, we have a commitment to Improve Tomorrow as we are excited to tackle the challenges ahead and are extremely proud to collaborate with a fellow Danish company in delivering real sustainable action.--TradeArabia News Service SYDNEY, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Chevron Australia confirmed on Monday that its Wheatstone liquid natural gas (LNG) facility in Western Australia has recovered to full production despite a fault last week. "Chevron Australia confirms full production resumed last night at the Wheatstone Gas Facility following a fault on Sept.14. During this time, LNG continued to be produced at approximately 80 percent of usual rates, and vessel loading continued," a spokesperson from the company said in a statement. According to the statement, there has been no change to scheduled LNG deliveries, with domestic gas facilities and supply unaffected. The spokesperson made no comments on the 24-hour strikes during the weekend which broke out at Chevron's Gorgon, Wheatstone Downstream and Wheatstone Platform. At 8:00 a.m. local time on Saturday, Offshore Alliance, a union representing workers in oil and gas industries, announced on its social media that union members would lock down all three West Coast facilities for the next 24 hours. "Wheatstone Downstream has lost 25 percent of its production since midday Thursday due to the incompetence of Chevron's BCP workforce and there is every likelihood that production on the Gorgon facility will be significantly impacted over the weekend," said the union. Since Sept. 8, the union has carried out its industrial action against Chevron, as both sides failed to reach an agreement over several matters, including job security, agreed rosters, transfers to other Chevron worksites, the working of overcycle, training standards, travel arrangements and rates of pay. After six days of limited action, Offshore Alliance elevated the strikes to rolling 24-hour stoppages, each day for 14 days from Sept. 14. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is on his way home Sunday from Russia, ending a six-day trip that triggered global concerns about weapons transfer deals between the two countries locked in separate standoffs with the West. Kims armored train departed to the sound of the Russian patriotic march song Farewell of Slavianka at the end of a farewell ceremony at a railway station in Artyom, a far eastern Russian city about 200 kilometers (124 miles) from the border with North Korea, Russias state news agency RIA reported. Senior officials including Russias Minister of Natural Resources Alexander Kozlov and Primorye regional Gov. Oleg Kozhemyako were present at the ceremony, which featured a Russian military band playing both North Korean and Russian national anthems. It was Kims longest foreign travel since he took power in late 2011. Observers said Kim was expected to return to Pyongyang, the North Korean capital, around Monday afternoon. Since entering Russia last Tuesday in his first overseas trip in more than four years, Kim had met President Vladimir Putin and visited key military and technology sites, underscoring the countries deepening defense cooperation in the face of separate, intensifying confrontations with the U.S. and its allies. Foreign officials and experts have said North Korea could provide badly needed munitions for Moscows war on Ukraine in exchange for sophisticated Russian weapons technology that would advance Kims nuclear ambitions. North Korea may have tens of millions of aging artillery shells and rockets based on Soviet designs that could bolster Russian forces in Ukraine, analysts say, even though its old artillery systems have a reputation for poor accuracy. Both sides have been reportedly firing thousands of artillery rounds a day. U.N. Security Council resolutions which Russia, a permanent member, previously endorsed ban North Korea from exporting or importing any arms. Observers say Russias alleged attempts to receive ammunitions and artillery shells from North Korea suggest Moscows desperation to refill its arsenal exhausted in the war with Ukraine. Military cooperation between North Korea and Russia is illegal and unjust as it contravenes U.N. Security Council resolutions and various other international sanctions, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said in written responses Sunday to questions from The Associated Press. The international community will unite more tightly in response to such a move. In return for supplying conventional arms to Russia, experts say North Korea would seek Russian economic and food aid but also transfers of technologies to build powerful missiles, a nuclear-propelled submarine and a spy satellite. North Korea has publicly sought to introduce such high-tech weapons systems citing what it called intensifying U.S.-led hostilities. Earlier Sunday, Kim was in a lighter mode, touring a university and watching a walrus show at a Russian aquarium. Russias state media released videos of Kim, accompanied by his top officials, talking with Russian officials through translators at the campus of the Far Eastern Federal University in Russky Island. At the islands Primorsky Aquarium, Russias largest, Kim watched performances featuring beluga whales, bottlenose dolphins, fur seals and Misha the walrus, which he seemed to particularly enjoy, according to Russian media. Kozhemyako, the Primorye governor, said a delegation from Russias Far East would visit North Korea. According to Russian state media, Kozhemyako said hell be part of the delegation that will travel with specialists from trade, tourism and agricultural sectors. The exact timing for the visit to North Korea hasnt been announced. On Saturday, Kim traveled to an airport near Vladivostok, where Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and other senior military officials gave him an up-close look at Russias strategic bombers and other warplanes. Kim and Shoigu later in the day went to Vladivostok, where they inspected the Admiral Shaposhnikov frigate. On Friday, Kim visited an aircraft plant in the city of Komsomolsk-on-Amur that produces Russias most powerful fighter jets. The Russian warplanes shown to Kim on Saturday were among the types that have seen action in Ukraine, including the Tu-160, Tu-95 and Tu-22 bombers that have regularly launched cruise missiles. During Kims visit, Shoigu and Lt. Gen. Sergei Kobylash, the commander of the Russian long-range bomber force, confirmed for the first time that the Tu-160 had recently received new cruise missiles with a range of more than 6,500 kilometers (over 4,040 miles). Shoigu, who had met Kim during a rare visit to North Korea in July, also showed Kim another of Russias latest missiles, the hypersonic Kinzhal, carried by the MiG-31 fighter jet, that saw its first combat during the war in Ukraine. North Koreas state media reported that Kim and Shoigu talked about the regional security environment and exchanged views on practical issues arising in further strengthening the strategic and tactical coordination, cooperation and mutual exchange between the armed forces of the two countries. Kims summit with Putin was held at Russias main space launch site, a location that pointed to his desire for Russian assistance in his efforts to acquire space-based reconnaissance assets and missile technologies. In recent months, two North Korean launches to send a spy satellite into space ended in failure, and the North vowed to conduct a third attempt in October. During the meeting with Putin, Kim said his country would offer its full and unconditional support for Russias fight to defend its security interests, in an apparent reference to the war in Ukraine. Kim invited Putin to visit North Korea at a convenient time, and Putin accepted. It was Kims second summit meeting with Putin. The previous meeting took place in Vladivostok in April 2019, two months after Kims high-stakes nuclear diplomacy with then U.S. President Donald Trump fell apart during their second summit in Vietnam. (AP) Newly acquitted of impeachment charges, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is back on the job and getting back to the usual. Promises to keep dragging the Biden administration into court. Support from former President Donald Trump. And coming soon, a sit-down with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson. As Paxton on Sunday begins his first full day back in office after winning acquittal in the Texas Senate over accusations of corruption and bribery, the Republican is quickly resuming what has long helped make him one of the most resilient political figures in the U.S. despite years of criminal charges and alleged scandal. At the same time, the verdict is inflaming rifts within the GOP surrounding his impeachment in the first place. The fallout in the Texas Capitol is likely only beginning and threatens to spill into the 2024 elections, when conservative allies of the Trump-backed attorney general say they will target Republican legislators who led the investigation against Paxton. Even the very act of impeachment in Texas could get a second look after Republican Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who presided over the trial, called for new guardrails in a fiery speech questioning how the case made it this far. On the other side are Republicans in the Texas House, where Paxton was overwhelmingly impeached and suspended from office in May. Its members bristled at Saturdays verdict and the criticism leveled by the lieutenant governor. The inescapable conclusion is that todays outcome appears to have been orchestrated from the start, cheating the people of Texas of justice, Republican House Speaker Dade Phelan said. Paxton, 60, was absent for most of the trial and was not in the Senate for his acquittal on 16 articles of impeachment. He issued a statement blasting his impeachment as the work of a kangaroo court and promoted an interview he plans to give this week with Carlson. Ive said many times: Seek the truth! And that is what was accomplished, Paxton said. The trial was a showcase of sober testimony and occasional spectacle. In accusing Paxton of abusing his office, former advisers recounted how Texas top lawyer allegedly pressured them to help a political donor who was under FBI investigation. The testimony included arguments over who paid for home renovations, whether Paxton used burner phones and how his alleged extramarital affair became a strain on the office. Paxton denied wrongdoing and his attorneys argued there either was no evidence or wasnt enough to rise beyond a reasonable doubt. They portrayed Paxton as the victim of a plot orchestrated by Republican rivals and waved to political conspiracies involving George P. Bush, the nephew of former President George W. Bush, who unsuccessfully challenged Paxton in last years GOP primary. Paxton was endorsed in that race by Trump, who reaffirmed his support in the waning days of the trial and applauded the verdict. The Ken Paxton Victory is sooo BIG. WOW!!! Trump posted on Truth Social, his social media platform. More than three months after the overwhelming impeachment in the Texas House, where Republicans have a solid majority, Paxton was just as convincingly acquitted by Senate Republicans who serve alongside his wife, state Sen. Angela Paxton. Angela Paxton was not allowed a vote in the trial. But she attended all two weeks of the proceedings, including one dramatic moment when a woman was called to publicly testify about an affair she had with the state senators husband. The woman ultimately never took the witness stand, but her relationship with Ken Paxton was central to a case accusing him of going to potentially criminal lengths to help a local real estate developer named Nate Paul, who was under FBI investigation at the time. Democratic state Sen. Nathan Johnson described nearly eight hours of deliberations among the 30 senators as a hard and seemingly sincere process. And then it collapsed, he said. Johnson said it eventually became clear there would not be enough votes to convict, which may have led some senators to change their minds. When enough people fall away from conviction, it exposes any remaining Republican to very strong attack from the right, Johnson said. We reached the wrong result and it was the result of political pressures. The outcome is not the end of Paxtons troubles. He still faces trial on felony securities fraud charges, remains under a separate FBI investigation and is in jeopardy of losing his ability to practice law in Texas because of his baseless attempts to overturn the 2020 election. Eight of Paxtons former deputies reported him to the FBI in 2020 over his relationship with real estate developer Paul, setting off a federal investigation that is ongoing. Federal prosecutors investigating Paxton took testimony in August before a grand jury in San Antonio, according to two people with knowledge of the matter who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of secrecy rules around the proceeding. Paul was indicted in June on charges of making false statements to banks. He has pleaded not guilty. Dan Cogdell, one of Paxtons attorneys, said the securities fraud charges the attorney general still faces should be dismissed. If they dont dismiss them, well try them and beat them there just like we beat them here, he said. (AP) South Koreas president said the international community will unite more tightly to cope with deepening military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, as he plans to raise the issue with world leaders at the U.N. General Assembly this week. Worries about Russian-North Korean ties have flared since North Korean leader Kim Jong Un traveled to Russia last week for a summit with President Vladimir Putin and to tour a slew of high-profile military and technology sites. Foreign experts speculate Kim could refill Russias ammunition inventory drained in its 18-month war with Ukraine in return for economic aid and technologies to modernize his weapons systems targeting South Korea and the U.S. Military cooperation between North Korea and Russia is illegal and unjust as it contravenes U.N. Security Council resolutions and various other international sanctions, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said in written responses to questions from The Associated Press before his departure to New York to attend the U.N. General Assembly. The international community will unite more tightly in response to such a move, he said. In his address Wednesday at the annual U.N. gathering, Yoon will speak about his assessment of the Russian-North Korean moves, according to his office in South Korea, which added it is discussing countermeasures with the U.S., Japan and other partners. While Russian-North Korean cooperation is feared to fuel Russias war efforts in Ukraine, it has also stoked security jitters in South Korea, where many think a Russian transfer of sophisticated weapons technologies would help North Korea acquire a functioning spy satellite, a nuclear-powered submarine and more powerful missiles. Some experts still say North Korea would end up receiving food and cash in return for supplying ammunition and shells because Russia closely guards its high-tech weapons technologies. North Koreas advancing nuclear arsenal has been a major source of tensions in the region, with the North openly threatening to use nuclear weapons in potential conflicts with its rivals and conducting a barrage of missile tests since last year. In response, Yoon and U.S. President Joe Biden in April agreed to expand joint military exercises, increase the temporary deployments of U.S. strategic assets and launch a bilateral nuclear consultative group. Our two countries (South Korea and the U.S.) reaffirmed that any nuclear attack by North Korea will be met with a swift, overwhelming and decisive response that will bring about the end of the regime, Yoon said. Going forward, (South Korea)-U.S. extended deterrence will develop into a joint system in which both countries discuss, decide and act together, he said. We will also enhance the ability to deter and respond to any nuclear or missile threat from North Korea. Since entering Russia last Tuesday in his first foreign travel in 4 1/2 years, Kim has inspected some of Russias most advanced weapons systems including nuclear-capable bombers, fighter jets, hypersonic missiles and a warship. During a summit with Putin at Russias most important space launch center on Wednesday, Kim vowed full and unconditional support for Putin. Some South Koreans call on their government to consider providing lethal weapons to Ukraine in retaliation against Russias possible weapons technology transfers. But South Koreas Defense Ministry said its policy of not supplying weapons to countries at war remained unchanged. Yoon recently announced South Korea will provide an additional $300 million to Ukraine next year, on top of the $150 million promised this year. He said South Korea will prepare for a mid- to long-term support package worth more than $2 billion. South Korea has provided Ukraine with demining equipment, emergency evacuation vehicles, pickup trucks, medical supplies, tablet PCs and other items. Yoon said in the coming year South Korea will continue to communicate closely with Ukraine to send it what is truly needed. Since taking office last year, Yoon, a conservative, has made a bolstered military alliance with the U.S. the heart of his foreign policy while pushing to move beyond history disputes with Japan Koreas former colonial ruler and expand a trilateral Seoul-Washington-Tokyo security cooperation. That has triggered concerns that South Koreas relations with China, its biggest trading partner, will be hurt. Yoon dismissed such a notion, saying the trilateral cooperation harbors no intention of marginalizing any particular nation or establishing an exclusive coalition. Citing his meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping last November and Premier Li Qiang this month, both on the margins of regional gatherings, Yoon said he learned that China also attaches importance to (South Korea)-China relations. During their November meeting, Yoon said Xi expressed his willingness to visit South Korea when the COVID-19 pandemic situation stabilized. Yoon said Li and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida had also expressed their support for resuming a trilateral Seoul-Beijing-Tokyo summit in South Korea for the first time in four years. All three countries the Republic of Korea, the United States and Japan share a common understanding that it is important for China to play a responsible and constructive role not only in resolving pending issues on the Korean Peninsula and in the region but also in addressing global challenges, Yoon said. In his U.N. speech, Yoon said that hell also raise the issue of gaps in three areas development, climate responses and digital transformation and present how South Korea will contribute to resolving them. Yoon said that as a non-permanent member of the Security Council for the 2024-25 term, hell also mention that South Korea will play a responsible role on security issues that require international solidarity like the war in Ukraine and the North Korean nuclear program. While in New York, Yoon said he will hold bilateral summits with the leaders of about 30 countries. Yoon said hell try to use those summits to discuss bilateral cooperation and explain South Kores hopes to host the 2030 World Expo in Busan, South Koreas second-biggest city. (AP) Atlantic storm Lee pummeled a large swath of New England and Maritime Canada with destructive winds, rough surf and torrential rains that toppled trees, flooded roadways and cut power to tens of thousands on Saturday. One person was killed in Maine when a tree limb fell on his vehicle. The center of the sprawling post-tropical cyclone made landfall about 135 miles (215 kilometers) west of Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center. Thats about 50 miles (80 kilometers) southeast of Eastport, Maine. It had near-hurricane-strength winds of 70 mph (110 kph), though the storm was weakening as it headed north to New Brunswick and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Lee flooded coastal roads in Nova Scotia and took ferries out of service as it fanned anxiety in a region still reeling from wildfires and severe flooding this summer. The provinces largest airport, Halifax Stanfield International, cancelled all flights. People are exhausted. Its so much in such a small time period, said Pam Lovelace, a councilor in Halifax. The storm was so big that it caused power outages several hundred miles from its center. At midday Saturday, 11% of electricity customers in Maine lacked power, along with 27% of Nova Scotia, 8% of New Brunswick and 3% of Prince Edward Island. Hurricane-force winds extended as far as 140 miles (220 kilometers) from Lees center, with tropical storm-force winds extending as far as 320 miles (515 kilometers) enough to cover all of Maine and much of Maritime Canada. In the United States, a tropical storm warning remained in effect from Stonington, Maine, north to the U.S.-Canada border. That included Bar Harbor, the touristy gateway to Acadia National Park, where a whale watch vessel broke free of its mooring and crashed ashore. Authorities worked to offload 1,800 gallons of diesel fuel to prevent it from spilling into the ocean. A 51-year-old motorist in Searsport, Maine, died after a large tree limb fell on his vehicle Saturday on U.S. Highway 1 during a period of high winds, the first fatality attributed to the storm. The tree limb brought down live power lines, and utility workers had to cut power before the man could be removed, said Police Chief Brian Lunt. The unidentified man died later at a hospital, Lunt said. Storm surge of up to 3 feet (0.91 meters) was expected along coastal areas, accompanied by large and destructive waves, the hurricane center said. The storm skirted some of the most waterlogged areas of Massachusetts that experienced severe flash flooding days earlier, when fast water washed out roads, caused sinkholes, damaged homes and flooded vehicles. In eastern Maine, winds died down enough by late afternoon for utility workers to begin using their bucket trucks to make repairs. Both Central Maine Power and Versant Power had hundreds of workers, including out-of-state crews, to assist in the effort. At this point, the storm is resembling a noreaster, said Sarah Thunberg, a National Weather Service meteorologist, referring to the fall and winter storms that often plague the region and are so named because their winds blow from the northeast. They typically have a much wider wind field than tropical systems, whose winds stay closer to a storms center. But the entire region has experienced an especially wet summer it ranked second in the number of rainy days in Portland, Maine and Lees high winds toppled trees stressed by the rain-soaked ground in Maine, the nations most heavily wooded state. Cruise ships found refuge at berths in Portland, while lobstermen in Bar Harbor and elsewhere pulled traps from the water and hauled boats inland. Billy Bob Faulkingham, House Republican leader of the Maine Legislature, and another lobsterman survived after their boat overturned while hauling traps ahead of the storm Friday, officials said. The boats emergency locator beacon alerted authorities, and the two clung to the hull until help arrived, said Winter Harbor Police Chief Danny Mitchell. The 42-foot boat sank. Theyre very lucky to be alive, Mitchell said. Forecasters urged residents to stay home, but many ventured out anyway. Betsy Follansbee and her husband, Fred, jogged to Higgins Beach in Scarborough, Maine, to watch surfers some wearing helmets paddling out to catch waves reaching 12 feet (3.6 meters). They were the biggest waves Follansbee has seen in her 10 years living there, she said. Were impressed that theyre bold enough to try, Follansbee said. On Maines Bailey Island, a slender spit jutting into the Gulf of Maine, Ren Renton watched the ocean roil. It comes and goes and takes what it wants, but hopefully not too much, she said. Lee shared some characteristics with 2012s Superstorm Sandy. Both were once-strong hurricanes that became post-tropical cyclones cyclonic storms that have lost most of their tropical characteristics before landfall. Lee was not expected to be nearly as destructive as Sandy, which caused billions of dollars in damage and was blamed for dozens of deaths in New York and New Jersey. Lee also isnt anywhere near as severe as the remnants of Hurricane Fiona, which a year ago washed houses into the ocean in eastern Canada, knocked out power to most of two provinces and swept a woman into the sea, said Canadian meteorologist Jill Maepea. Destructive hurricanes are relatively rare so far north. The Great New England Hurricane of 1938 brought gusts as high as 186 mph (300 kph) and sustained winds of 121 mph (195 kph) at Massachusetts Blue Hill Observatory. But there have been no storms that powerful in recent years. (AP) Libyan authorities have opened an investigation into the collapse of two dams that caused a devastating flood in a coastal city as rescue teams searched for bodies on Saturday, nearly a week after the deluge killed more than 11,000 people. Its unclear how such an investigation can be carried out in the North African country, which plunged into chaos after a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi in 2011. For most of the past decade, Libya has been split between rival administrations one in the east, the other in the west each backed by powerful militias and international patrons. One result has been the neglect of crucial infrastructure, even as climate change makes extreme weather events more frequent and severe. Heavy rains caused by Mediterranean storm Daniel caused deadly flooding across eastern Libya last weekend. The floods overwhelmed two dams, sending a wall of water several meters high through the center of Derna, destroying entire neighborhoods and sweeping people out to sea. More than 10,000 people are missing, according to the Libyan Red Crescent. Six days on, searchers are still digging through mud and hollowed-out buildings, looking for bodies and possible survivors. The Red Crescent has confirmed 11,300 deaths so far. Claire Nicolet, who heads the emergencies department of the Doctors Without Borders aid group, said that rescuers found a lot of bodies on Friday and were still searching. It was a big number the sea is still ejecting lots of dead bodies unfortunately, she told The Associated Press. She said major aid efforts were still needed, including urgent psychological support for those who lost their families. She said the burial of bodies is still a significant challenge, but there has been progress in coordinating search and rescue efforts and the distribution of aid. Authorities and aid groups have voiced concern about the spread of waterborne diseases and shifting of explosive ordnance from Libyas recent conflicts. Haider al-Saeih, head of Libyas center for combating diseases, said in televised comments Saturday that at least 150 people had suffered from diarrhea after drinking contaminated water in Derna. He urged residents only drink bottled water, which is being shipped in as part of relief efforts. Libyas General Prosecutor, al-Sediq al-Sour, said that prosecutors would investigate the collapse of the two dams, which were built in the 1970s, as well as the allocation of maintenance funds. He said prosecutors would investigate local authorities in the city, as well as previous governments. I reassure citizens that whoever made mistakes or negligence, prosecutors will certainly take firm measures, file a criminal case against him and send him to trial, he told a news conference in Derna late Friday. He said the probe will include investigators from different parts of the country. Such an inquiry would face major obstacles given Libyas lingering political divide, even as the devastation brought a rare moment of unity, with Libyans on both sides rushing aid to Derna. Jalel Harchaoui, an expert on Libya at the London-based Royal United Services Institute for Defence and Security Studies, said that an investigation could pose a unique challenge to judicial authorities, since it could lead to the highest ranks of leadership in eastern and western Libya. Later on Saturday, a local television station reported that Dernas mayor, Abdel-Moneim al-Gaithi, was suspended pending an investigation into the disaster, according to a government decree dated Sept. 14. Ahmed Amdour was appointed acting mayor for the flood-stricken city, the station said. Since 2014, eastern Libya has been under the control of Gen. Khalifa Hifter and his self-styled Libyan National Army. A rival government, based in the capital, Tripoli, controls most national funds and oversees infrastructure projects. Neither tolerates dissent. The key challenge to a thorough investigation is the Hifter coalitions longstanding behavior; its historic lack of accountability writ large could obstruct the unearthing of truths, Harchaoui said. During a visit to Derna on Friday, Hifter promised promotions to all military personnel involved in the relief efforts. Local officials in the city had warned the public about the coming storm and last Saturday ordered residents to evacuate coastal areas in Derna, fearing a surge from the sea. But there was no warning about the dams, which collapsed early Monday as most residents were asleep in their homes. A report by a state-run audit agency in 2021 said the two dams hadnt been maintained despite the allocation of more than $2 million for that purpose in 2012 and 2013. A Turkish firm was contracted in 2007 to carry out maintainence on the two dams and build another dam in between. The firm, Arsel Construction Company Ltd., said on its website that it completed its work in November 2012. It didnt respond to an email seeking further comment. Local and international rescue teams were meanwhile working around the clock, searching for bodies and potential survivors in the city of 90,000 people. Ayoub said that his father and nephew died in Derna on Monday, a day after the family had fled flooding in the nearby town of Bayda. He said that his mother and sister raced upstairs to the roof but the others didnt make it. I found the kid in the water next to his grandfather, said Ayoub, who only gave his first name. I am wandering around and I still dont believe what happened. Al-Sour, the top prosecutor, called on residents who have missing relatives to report to a forensic committee that works on documenting and identifying retrieved bodies. Libyan authorities have restricted access to the flooded city to make it easier for searchers to dig through the mud and hollowed-out buildings for the more than 10,000 people still missing. Many bodies were believed to have been buried under rubble or swept out into the Mediterranean Sea, they said. The storm hit other areas in eastern Libya, including the towns of Bayda, Susa, Marj and Shahatt. Tens of thousands of people have been displaced in the region and took shelter in schools and other government buildings. Dozens of foreigners were among those killed, including people who had fled war and unrest elsewhere in the region. Others had come to Libya to work or were traveling through in hopes of migrating to Europe. At least 74 men from one village in Egypt perished in the flood, as well as dozens of people who had traveled to Libya from war-torn Syria. Maltese authorities said they found over 80 bodies during land and sea searches on Friday. One person was found alive 10 nautical miles, roughly 11 miles, off the coast of Derna. Maltas armed forces have been helping with relief efforts in Libya since Wednesday. (AP) President Joe Bidens national security adviser met with Chinas foreign minister over the past two days on the Mediterranean island nation of Malta in an effort that the White House said Sunday was intended to responsibly maintain the relationship at a time of strained ties and mutual suspicion between the rival powers. The White House said in a statement that Jake Sullivan and Chinese envoy Wang Yi had candid, substantive and constructive discussions as the worlds two largest economies try to maintain open lines of communication. Sullivan and Wang last met in May in Vienna f or talks. The two officials spent about 12 hours together over two days in Malta. Washington and Beijing see themselves as competitors despite an extensive trade partnership. President Joe Biden recently spoke with Chinese Premier Li Qiang while in India at the Group of 20 summit and told reporters afterward that they had talked about stability and it wasnt confrontational at all. Biden has worked to strengthen relations with Japan, South Korea, India, Vietnam and others to counterbalance Chinas influence across the Pacific Region. Yet Biden said last Sunday at a news conference in the Vietnamese capital of Hanoi that those alliances are not about a cold war with China. Its not about containing China, he said. Its about having a stable base for global economic growth. Yet the relationship is full of competing pressures. The Biden administration shot down a Chinese spy balloon that traversed the continental U.S. earlier this year. The Chinese government hacked the emails of Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. The U.S. government has restricted the exporting of advanced computer chips to China. And after Chinese President Xi Jinping centralized his power, the Chinese economy has not rebounded as expected after ending its pandemic lockdowns. The White House said Sullivan and Wang discussed the relationship between the two countries, global and regional security issues, Russias war in Ukraine and the Taiwan Strait. They also discussed artificial intelligence, counternarcotic efforts and the status of detained U.S. citizens in China. The United States noted the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. The two sides committed to maintain this strategic channel of communication and to pursue additional high-level engagement and consultations in key areas between the United States and the Peoples Republic of China in the coming months, according to the statement. A senior Biden administration official who briefed reporters on the talks said the two sides did not discuss the whereabouts of Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu, who has not been seen in public since Aug. 29 Speculation about Lis standing comes after Qin Gang was abruptly removed in July as foreign minister, a change announced weeks after he had disappeared from public view earlier in the summer. Bidens ambassador to Japan, Rahm Emanuel, used a social media posting last week to take note of Lis situation. As Shakespeare wrote in Hamlet, Something is rotten in the state of Denmark, Emanuel wrote on X, formerly Twitter. Asked why Sullivan did not raise the issue with Wang, the administration official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the closed-door meeting, said the talks were focused on the bilateral relationship. The Sullivan-Wang meeting comes as Biden and other world leaders are set to take part in the annual gathering of the U.N. General Assembly. Biden is scheduled to address the world body on Tuesday and meet with leaders of five Central Asian nations Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Xi has stepped up his own courting of those countries. During his own summit in May with the Central Asian leaders, Xi promised to build more railway and other trade links with the region and proposed jointly developing oil and gas sources Sullivan told reporters last week that Bidens meeting with those leaders should not be seen as an effort to counterbalance Chinese influence in the region. Look, this summit is not against any country, Sullivan said, previewing the meeting. It is for a positive agenda that we want to work through with these countries. Xi did not attend last weekends G20 summit in New Delhi and is not expected to be in New York for the General Assembly. Biden has said he hopes to soon meet with Xi. The two leaders have not spoken since the they met for talks last November in Indonesia, according to the White House. Sullivan also met with Maltas prime minister, Robert Abela. They talked about the Mediterranean regions role in helping to provide global peace and security, according to a statement by the Maltese government. (AP) The U.N. nuclear watchdog harshly criticized Iran on Saturday for effectively barring several of its most experienced inspectors from monitoring the countrys disputed atomic program. The strongly worded statement came amid longstanding tensions between Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency, which is tasked with monitoring a nuclear program that Western nations have long suspected is aimed at eventually developing a nuclear weapon. Iran insists the program is peaceful. Rafael Mariano Grossi, the head of the IAEA, said Iran had withdrawn the designation of several experienced Agency inspectors, barring them from taking part in the monitoring of its program. Iran has effectively removed about one-third of the core group of the agencys most experienced inspectors designated for Iran, he said. Grossi went on to strongly condemn this disproportionate and unprecedented unilateral measure, saying it constitutes an unnecessary blow to an already strained relationship between the IAEA and Iran. Irans Foreign Ministry linked the move to what it said was an attempt by the United States and three European countries to misuse the IAEA for their own political purposes. The U.S., Britain, France and Germany criticized Iran in a joint statement at an IAEA board meeting in Vienna this week, calling on Tehran to step up cooperation with the agency. Britain, France and Germany also said Thursday that they would maintain sanctions on Iran related to its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Iran had previously warned about the consequences of such political abuses, including the attempt to politicize the atmosphere of the agency, said Nasser Kanaani, spokesman for Irans Foreign Ministry. The Vienna-based IAEA reported earlier this month that Iran had slowed the pace at which it is enriching uranium to nearly weapons-grade levels. That was seen as a sign that Tehran was trying to ease tensions after years of strain between it and the U.S. Iran and the U.S. are negotiating a prisoner swap and the release of billions of dollars in Iranian assets frozen in South Korea. World powers struck a deal with Tehran in 2015 under which it agreed to limit enrichment of uranium to levels necessary for nuclear power in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. U.N. inspectors were tasked with monitoring the program. Then-President Donald Trump unilaterally pulled the U.S. out of the accord in 2018, restoring crippling sanctions. Iran began breaking the terms a year later. Formal talks in Vienna to try to restart the deal collapsed in August 2022. Iran has long denied ever seeking nuclear weapons and continues to insist that its program is entirely for peaceful purposes, though Grossi has warned that Tehran has enough enriched uranium for several nuclear bombs if it chose to build them. Tehran likely would still need months to build a weapon. The IAEA, the West and other countries say Iran had a secret military nuclear program it abandoned in 2003. Without effective cooperation, confidence and trust will continue to be elusive, Grossi said Saturday. Without these inspectors, he said, the agency will not be able to effectively provide credible assurances that nuclear material and activities in Iran are for peaceful purposes. (AP) In a new CBS poll released on Sunday, a significant 72 percent of Americans have expressed doubts about President Joe Bidens physical fitness for another four years in office, adding a new layer of uncertainty to the upcoming presidential race. The survey also highlights the resurgence of former President Donald Trump in the political arena. Biden Trails Trump by One Point Within Margin of Error The polls headline finding is that President Biden is trailing former President Trump by a mere one point in a head-to-head matchup. However, its important to note that this narrow margin falls well within the polls 2.1 percent margin of error, making the race too close to call at this stage. Age Doesnt Diminish Concerns About Health Despite being two years older than Trump, Biden faces challenges in how voters perceive his physical and mental health. When asked about who is physically healthy enough to be president, the poll revealed that 43 percent of respondents believed only Donald Trump fits the bill, while 29 percent thought neither candidate was up to the task. Only 16 percent of those surveyed expressed confidence that only Biden is competent to serve from a physical health perspective. Mental and Cognitive Health Also Under Scrutiny Concerns about mental and cognitive health are equally prominent. A significant 44 percent of respondents felt that only Trump is mentally fit to serve as president, with 23 percent believing that neither candidate possesses the necessary mental acuity. Only 26 percent felt that only Biden is sufficiently fit from a mental and cognitive standpoint. GOP Criticism of Bidens Health Persists One of the lasting criticisms from the GOP has revolved around Bidens mental and cognitive health, given that he is the oldest president ever to occupy the Oval Office. This criticism has been echoed by Republicans and some Democratic pundits who have openly questioned Bidens fitness for the role. Trumps Polling Surge Despite Legal Challenges Remarkably, former President Donald Trumps polling numbers have surged in recent months, despite facing four criminal indictments across four different jurisdictions. According to the Real Clear Politics national average, Trump now holds a slight lead over Biden, with a margin of 0.6 percent. As the 2024 presidential election draws nearer, these survey results are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape. Concerns about the health and fitness of presidential candidates, particularly their ability to serve a full term, are likely to remain at the forefront of the political discourse throughout the campaign season. The CBS News/YouGov Survey, conducted from September 12-15, involved a national sample of 4,002 U.S. adults. The polls results were meticulously weighted to account for age, race, and education, providing a comprehensive snapshot of the American electorates sentiments. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Six Ukrainian deputy defense ministers were fired Monday following the dismissal two weeks ago of Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov in a corruption scandal, officials said, as heavy fighting continued in the east. Russia claimed to have struck key Ukrainian facilities in air attacks overnight, hitting stores of Storm Shadow missiles and depleted uranium ammunition along with electronic intelligence centers and training facilities for Ukrainian military scouts. The deputy defense ministers fired included Hanna Maliar, Vitalii Deyneha and Denys Sharapov, as well as the state secretary of the Ministry of Defense, Kostiantyn Vashchenko, were fired, according to the Telegram account of Taras Melnychuk, permanent representative of the Cabinet of Ministers. Melnychuk provided no explanation of the firings, but the government has been investigating accusations of corruption in the military related to purchasing equipment. Rustem Umerov, a Crimean Tatar lawmaker who took over as defense minister, did not immediately issue a statement. Reznikov was removed earlier this month after a scandal involving the defense ministrys procurement of military jackets at three times their cost. Reznikov denied the allegations but resigned. The reshuffling of the department came a day after Ukraines military said it captured the village of Klishchiivka from Russian troops after months of fierce battles. Fighting continued Monday as troops tried to hold the village south of the Russian-held city of Bakhmut in the eastern Donetsk region. Its recapture followed the retaking of the nearby village of Andriivka. The enemy is trying with all his might to regain lost positions, Maliar said in a briefing Monday before she was fired. Therefore, our fighters hold back the enemys attacks there and are entrenched at the achieved frontiers. Retaking Klishchiivka is considered tactically important, allowing Ukrainian forces to further extend their gains around Bakhmut. Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year. Ukraine launched a counteroffensive in June that so far has been marked by small victories but no major breakthroughs. Despite being bolstered by NATO-standard weapons worth billions of dollars, Ukrainian military officials have said there are no quick solutions to puncture Russian defensive lines only slow, grinding battles that have led to heavy losses. In his efforts to draw more support, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is headed to the U.S. where he is expected at the White House and on Capitol Hill this week as he visits during the United Nations General Assembly. His visit to Washington comes as Congress debates President Joe Bidens request to provide as much as $24 billion in military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine. In other fighting, six civilians were killed and 16 injured over the past 24 hours as Russia claimed to have used long-range air-launched missiles and drones to strike U.K.-supplied missiles and depleted uranium ammunition that can be used to destroy tanks. The goal of the strike has been fulfilled, all the designated facilities have been struck, the ministry said without providing specifics. The claims appeared to contradict Ukraines assertion that it intercepted all 17 cruise missiles launched by Russia and 18 of 24 Shahed drones in the southern regions of Mykolaiv and Odesa early Monday. There was no way to verify the conflicting claims. Russians attacked residential areas in eight cities and villages in the Donetsk region, including Avdiivka and Kurdiumivka, killing one and wounding four, it said. Five artillery attacks in Kherson killed one person and wounded another. In the nearby town of Beryslav, Russians dropped explosives from a drone near the local bus station, injuring four people, the presidential office said. Oleh Kiper, regional governor of Odesa, said a recreational facility in the town of Vylkovo was damaged in the attack but no casualties were immediately reported. Vylkovo, often referred to as the Ukrainian Venice because of its numerous canals, is located in the Danube delta on the border with Romania. Romania has recently reported several findings of fragments from drones similar to those used by Russia in attacks on Ukraines ports on the other side of the Danube. Neighboring Bulgaria on Monday said a specialist navy team carried out a controlled explosion of a mortar shell found attached to a drone in the Black Sea coastal area of Tyulenovo. Bulgarias Defense Minister Todor Tagarev said it wasnt clear when or how the drone ended up there, but said it most likely was carried by the sea to the coastal town situated about 30 kilometers (18.5 miles) south of the Romanian border. I have not been informed that our air defense system has detected such an object, but they are difficult to locate, Tagarev said. Such incidents happen weekly, the Bulgarian army has teams to locate and destroy unexploded ordnance. (AP) By Rabbi Yair Hoffman In New York City, the Tzom Gedaliah fast begins at 5:16 AM dawn degrees or at 5:26 AM dawn fixed minutes in NYC (All fasts other than Yom Kippur and Tishah BAv begin at alos hashachar dawn). According to Rav Moshe Feinstein ztl, one who finds fasting difficult may eat at 7:33 PM One who does not find fasting difficult should wait until the time for at 7:40 PM in NYC. Tzom Gedaliah is a fast day that commemorates a tragic time in our peoples history, one that the Gemorah (RH 18b) equates with the destruction of the Beis HaMikdash itself a jarring thought. After the destruction of the first Bais HaMikdosh, the Babylonians left a group of Jews in Eretz Yisrael. Gedaliah, the governor of that group and the leader of Klal Yisroel at the time, refused to take protective measures against Yishmael, when he was warned by Yochanan Ben Korayach of Yishmael Ben Nesanyas malevolent intent (Yirmiyahu 40:16). The consequences were quite grave indeed. Gedaliah and all his men were brutally murdered (Yirmiyahu 41:2).Gedaliah was actually murdered on Rosh HaShana, but it was set aside to the day after Rosh haShana because of the Yom Tov. Gedaliah Ben Achikam was one of the Gedolei HaDor of his generation. It is a perhaps little known fact, but he was also a Navi. Indeed the Gemorah (Rosh HaShana 18b) explains that Hashem Himself (Zechariah 8:19) equates the death of this great Tzaddik with the destruction of the Bais HaMikdash! Rarely if ever do we find such testimony as to the stature of any individual. Hashem himself is his character witness. If one had in mind that one was going to rise before dawn to eat, one may do so. In regard to rising before dawn, there is a difference between men and women. Men may only eat more than a kbayah of mezonos if they began more than 30 minutes before dawn. Otherwise, they may only eat less than a kbayah (2.2 fluid ounces of the food) (MB 89:27). Women have no such restriction, according to Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach, ztl (Note in Ishei Yisrael 13:71). WHO SHOULD FAST? All healthy adults should fast, including women (SA OC 550:1). A girl who is 12 years or older must fast, as must a boy who is 13 years of age or older. The minhag of some women to avoid fasting during the three fasts is incorrect and should be discontinued, as it is against Shulchan Aruch. The Mishnah Berurah (550:5) rules that children who have reached the age of chinuch for mourning should only eat simple foods so that they can participate in the mourning. A sick person should not fast (MB 550:4, 5) even if he is not a choleh shyesh bo sakanah. In other words, as long as he or she is noticeably sick, there is no need to fast. Nonetheless, that person should not engage in extravagant eating but should only eat moderately. PREGNANT OR NURSING A pregnant or nursing woman does not have to fast (OC SA 554:5) on the three fasts; only on the fourth, Tishah BAv. Although the Rema writes that it is the custom for a pregnant woman who has no difficulties fasting to fast, it seems from the statistical data available in Israel that they, too, should opt for the leniency of the Shulchan Aruch and not fast. ACCIDENTAL EATING OR DRINKING Generally speaking, one should not brush their teeth on a fast day. However, if someone is in much tzaar discomfort in the matter then one may be lenient (M.B. 567:11). Care should be taken to face ones mouth downward so as not to accidentally swallow. The same guidelines should be followed regarding mouthwash. If one accidentally ate or drank on the fast day, one must continue to fast for the rest of the day (SA OC 568:1). If one made a berachah on something and remembered after the berachah was recited that it is a fast day, that person should taste a little bit so that he will not have made a berachah lvatalah. SHOWERING Showering is permitted on the three fast days because Klal Yisrael did not accept it upon themselves to avoid this. The Mishnah Berurah (550:6), however, writes that a baal nefesh should be stringent and avoid showering in hot water during a fast day. Thus, showering in non-hot water would be completely permitted. It is also completely permitted to wash ones face, hands and feet in hot water. ADDITIONS IN TEFILLAH In Shacharis one recites Avinu Malkeinu and the Selichos for that fast day. In Minchah, one adds the special Aneinu tefillah and Avinu Malkeinu again. If Aneinu was not inserted, the Shemoneh Esreh is not repeated. If someone is not fasting, the Aneinu is not recited. If someone is not davening with a minyan, the 13 Attributes of Selichos (Hashem Hashem) are not said (see MB 565:13). During the last blessing of the Minchah Shemoneh Esreh the Sim Shalom paragraph is recited instead of the Shalom Rav paragraph. MORE BACKGROUND INFORMATION The words of the Panim Meiros on the Yerushalmi in Horios (3:5) are quite shocking. He writes that Gedaliah caused his own death. He was, himself to blame, not only for his death but for those of thousands of others. When people erroneously forbid information from being disseminated on account of thinking that it is Lashon Harah and that it is absolutely forbidden to pass on the information, people cannot take protective measures. At times, this too can be quite devastating. The future of Klal Yisroel was in the hands of this great Tzaddik and Gadol. His decisions were of paramount importance. Notwithstanding his greatness and piety and the fact that he was a prophet of Hashem, Chazal tell us that he made a crucial error in halacha and in its application. The Gemorah tells us (Niddah 61a) that Gedaliah Ben Achikam misused the halachic concept of Lashon HaRah and applied it erroneously. It was a tragic error that resulted not only in his death, the scattering of the nation, but also in the loss of Klal Yisroels independence as a nation. Indeed, the repercussions of his error are still felt to this day. The results of Gedaliahs inaction were so grave that the Mesilas Yesharim (chapter twenty) notes that the Gemorah (Niddah 61a) considers it as if Gedaliah himself had killed all of his people! To this day, there are many well-meaning people who misapply the notion of Lashon HaRah in ways that can cause Klal Yisroel to err and err again. At times, the sin of incorrectly sounding the Lashon Horah warning and ignoring the information is so grave that one who does so is considered the actual perpetrator of the repercussions that have transpired on account of the silence, whether it be theft, molestation or even murder. At the same time, there are situations where it is forbidden for people to believe the information, even though they may act upon it to protect themselves. There are also times when the information should not disseminated. No matter what, however, the decision should be made in consultation with Talmidei Chachomim who are attuned both to the need to protect others and to the law of Lashon Harah. The author can be reached at [email protected] ISTANBUL, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Turkish police on Monday seized bomb-making materials believed to be used by the Islamic State (IS) group in the western Izmir province, local media reported. The raid was carried out in the Bornova district as part of an investigation by the Izmir Chief Public Prosecutor's Office against suspected IS members. Police found petrol, electric capsules, gel dynamite, screws, and a metal pipe for making bombs, the Hurriyet newspaper reported. Five suspects with links to IS were also arrested in the operation. The IS group, which the Turkish government designates as a terrorist organization, has carried out a series of deadly attacks in Turkiye since 2015. Turkish counter-terrorism units, in response, have been conducting operations against the group's members in the country. Hundreds of Gazans rioted on the Israeli-Gazan border on Sunday, the second day of Rosh Hashanah. The IDF responded with riot dispersal methods and live fire after Palestinians threw explosive devices at the security fence. At least five Palestinians were wounded. It was the second time that Gazans rioted on the border in less than a week, On Wednesday, six Gazans were killed and 19 were injured while attempting to explode a homemade bomb along the border in the northern Gaza Strip. On Friday night, the first night of Rosh Hashanah, the IDF attacked a Hamas observation post in the Gaza Strip in response to the riots. An IDF spokesperson said: The IDF attacked a military position of the Hamas terrorist organization with a drone during a violent disturbance that took place near the border fence in the Gaza Strip. During the violent breach of order, explosives were activated and grenades were thrown at IDF forces. There were no casualties to our forces. IDF forces acted against the disturbances of order and responded with riot dispersal methods. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Israels Foreign Ministry filed an official complaint with the German government against German Ambassador to Israel Steffan Seibert for attending the Supreme Courts hearing on the reasonableness law last week. The ministry was outraged at the ambassadors attendance at the hearing a move perceived as an attempt to interfere in Israels internal affairs. Seibert posted a video from the courtroom in which he stated in Hebrew: I think something important is happening to Israels democracy. As friends of Israel, we look at the Supreme Court with great interest. This isnt the first time that Seibert has kindled the ire of Israels Foreign Ministry. In July, Ynet reported that the ministry took the unprecedented action of summoning and rebuking Seibert for his attendance at an alternative Yom Haatzmaut event that honored slain Palestinians, many of whom died in the course of carrying out terrorist attacks against Israelis. Additionally, Seibert instructed the German Air Force not to participate in the Yom Haatzmaut flyover over Yehudah and Shomron. Previously, he instructed German diplomats not to photograph the Old City of Jerusalem due to its status as occupied territory. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Israeli leftists continue to cross all red lines in their battle against Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and his government as they casually take every action to discredit Israel to the world. Netanyahu and his wife boarded a flight overnight Sunday to California, where the prime minister is scheduled to meet with Elon Musk in San Francisco. US-based Israeli leftists of the UnXeptable organization decided to welcome Netanyahu by projecting an image of him as a jailbird on the wall of the famous Alcatraz prison in San Francisco with the words Welcome Bibi. Previously, in New York, leftists projected a sign against Netanyahu on the wall of the UN headquarters, saying Dont Believe Crime Minister Netanyahu. .How destructive are Israels leftist insurrectionists? How willing are they to harm the country to advance their quest for power? The UN is the most powerful and destructive anti-Semitic institution in the world. And they are projecting a message justifying discrimination pic.twitter.com/whu6xkWB83 Caroline Glick (@CarolineGlick) September 12, 2023 I agree. There is a time and place for protests but not here. I also do not think this serves the interests of those who are committed to preserving democracy in #Israel. The UN has an extreme bias towards the state. Those enemies of Israel do not care if you are in favor of https://t.co/rEs66zUgD9 Jason Brodsky (@JasonMBrodsky) September 18, 2023 (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Five prisoners sought by the U.S. in a swap with Iran flew out of Tehran on Monday, officials said, part of a deal that saw nearly $6 billion in Iranian assets unfrozen. Despite the deal, tensions are almost certain to remain high between the U.S. and Iran, which are locked in various disputes, including over Tehrans nuclear program. Iran says the program is peaceful, but it now enriches uranium closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. The planned exchange has unfolded amid a major American military buildup in the Persian Gulf, with the possibility of U.S. troops boarding and guarding commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of all oil shipments pass. Two people, including a senior Biden administration official, said that the prisoners left Tehran on Monday. They spoke on condition of anonymity because the exchange was ongoing. In addition to the five freed Americans, two U.S. family members flew out, according to the Biden administration official. Flight-tracking data showed a Qatar Airways flight take off from Tehrans Mehrabad International Airport, which has been used for exchanges in the past. Several of the former prisoners could be seen climbing the stairs to the flight in video released by Iranian media. The plane was expected to land in Doha, Qatar. Meanwhile, Nour News, a website believed to be close to Irans security apparatus, said two of the Iranian prisoners had arrived in Doha for the swap. Earlier, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani said that the exchange would take place Monday after nearly $6 billion in once-frozen Iranian assets reached Qatar. Fortunately Irans frozen assets in South Korea were released and God willing today the assets will start to be fully controlled by the government and the nation, Kanaani said. On the subject of the prisoner swap, it will happen today and five prisoners, citizens of the Islamic Republic, will be released from the prisons in the U.S., he added. Five imprisoned citizens who were in Iran will be given to the U.S. side. He said two of the Iranian prisoners will stay in the U.S. Mohammad Reza Farzin, Irans Central Bank chief, later came on state television to acknowledge the receipt of over 5.5 billion euros $5.9 billion in accounts in Qatar. Months ago, Iran had anticipated getting as much as $7 billion. The planned exchange comes ahead of the convening of world leaders at the U.N. General Assembly this week in New York, where Irans hard-line President Ebrahim Raisi will speak. The deal has already opened U.S. President Joe Biden to fresh criticism from Republicans and others who say that the administration is helping boost the Iranian economy at a time when Iran poses a growing threat to American troops and Mideast allies. That could have implications in his reelection campaign as well. On the U.S. side, Washington has said the planned swap includes Siamak Namazi, who was detained in 2015 and was later sentenced to 10 years in prison on spying charges; Emad Sharghi, a venture capitalist sentenced to 10 years; and Morad Tahbaz, a British-American conservationist of Iranian descent who was arrested in 2018 and also received a 10-year sentence. All of their charges have been widely criticized by their families, activists and the U.S. government. U.S. officials have so far declined to identify the fourth and fifth prisoner. The five prisoners Iran has said it seeks are mostly held over allegedly trying to export banned material to Iran, such as dual use electronics that can be used by a military. The two that Nour News said were in Doha were: Mehrdad Ansari, an Iranian sentenced to 63 months in prison in 2021 for obtaining equipment that could be used in missiles, electronic warfare, nuclear weapons and other military gear, and Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani, an Iranian charged in 2021 over allegedly unlawfully exporting laboratory equipment to Iran. The cash represents money South Korea owed Iran but had not yet paid for oil purchased before the U.S. imposed sanctions on such transactions in 2019. The U.S. maintains that, once in Qatar, the money will be held in restricted accounts and will only be able to be used for humanitarian goods, such as medicine and food. Those transactions are currently allowed under American sanctions targeting the Islamic Republic over its advancing nuclear program. Iranian government officials have largely concurred with that explanation, though some hard-liners have insisted, without providing evidence, that there would be no restrictions on how Tehran spends the money. Iran and the U.S. have a history of prisoner swaps dating back to the 1979 U.S. Embassy takeover and hostage crisis following the Islamic Revolution. Their most recent major exchange happened in 2016, when Iran came to a deal with world powers to restrict its nuclear program in return for an easing of sanctions. The West accuses Iran of using foreign prisoners including those with dual nationality as bargaining chips, an allegation Tehran rejects. Negotiations over a major prisoner swap faltered after then-President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew America from the nuclear deal in 2018. From the following year on, a series of attacks and ship seizures attributed to Iran have raised tensions. Meanwhile, Irans nuclear program now enriches closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. While the head of the United Nations nuclear watchdog has warned that Iran now has enough enriched uranium to produce several bombs, months more would likely be needed to build a weapon and potentially miniaturize it to put it on a missile if Iran decided to pursue one. Iran maintains its nuclear program is peaceful, and the U.S. intelligence community has kept its assessment that Iran is not pursuing an atomic bomb. Iran has taken steps in recent months to settle some issues with the International Atomic Energy Agency. But the advances in its program have led to fears of a wider regional conflagration as Israel, itself a nuclear power, has said it would not allow Tehran to develop the bomb. Israel bombed both Iraq and Syria to stop their nuclear programs, giving the threat more weight. It also is suspected in carrying out a series of killings targeting Irans nuclear scientists. Iran also supplies Russia with the bomb-carrying drones Moscow uses to target sites in Ukraine in its war on Kyiv, which remains another major dispute between Tehran and Washington. (AP) Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu flew to the US overnight Sunday for a week-long visit and met with billionaire Elon Musk at the Tesla factory in Fremont, California around noon EST. The prime minister will then fly to New York, where he will meet with US President Joe Biden and other world leaders at the UN General Assembly. Prior to his departure, Netanyahu spoke to the press about the left-wing protesters waiting for him in the US, saying: Nothing surprises me anymore. Those organizing these protests are well-funded these are well-funded and organized protests that cross all red lines. Theyve led to the blocking of major highways as if its something normal, as if the violent harassment of public figures is apparently normal, as if IDF refusal is normal. So when they go and spew their rhetoric against Israel to the nations, it also seems normal to them. Its not normal for me. I never did such things when I was the head of the opposition. This is the 12th time, I believe, that Im addressing the UN as the head of the government. There were always protests for and against Israel. But this time, were seeing protests against Israel by people who are teaming up with the PLO, Iran and others. Nothing is surprising anymore but that wont stop me from representing Israel with pride and in the best possible way for all its citizens. Leftist protesters organized a large rally outside the UN on Friday morning that will coincide with Netanyahus speech to the assembly. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Former President Donald Trump kicked off the start of the Jewish High Holy Days with a message that liberal Jews voted to destroy America & Israel through their support of Joe Biden. Just a quick reminder for liberal Jews who voted to destroy America & Israel because you believed in false narratives!, the former president wrote on the social network. Lets hope you learned from your mistake & make better choices moving forward! Happy New Year! Wake Up Sheep. What Natzi / Anti Semite ever did this for the Jewish people or Israel? #1 Trump moves the American Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem which is Israels true capital. No other president had the (expletive removed) to do it. #2 Trump recognizes Israels sovereignty over the Golan Heights. #3 Trump recognizes Israels sovereignty over settlements in Judea & Samaria. #4 Trump signs an executive order for Judaism to be a nationality in addition to a religion so it would fall under the category Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. That act prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color and national origin in programs receiving federal financial assistance. Institutions that violate Title VI may lose their federal funding. This means that BDS will have a hard time harassing Jewish students on college campuses. #5 May 2020 Trump Signs the Never Again Education bill into law which aloocates millions of dollars to expand Holocaust awareness and create websites with curriculum tools for teachers nationwide! Clearly, one of the greatest Anti Semites of our time! #TRUMP2020 #JEXIT (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Although the cost of living squeeze is hitting families in the pocket, Britons are still keen to splash out on winter getaways, says the boss of P&O Cruises. Britains biggest cruise lines company has seen passengers flock back to its ships, while parent company Carnival has revealed bookings are at an all-time high. People trade down on supermarkets or cars or eating out, but they dont sacrifice their holidays, Paul Ludlow, president of Carnival UK, told the Mail. Carnival carried 5.7m passengers in the first six months of 2023 close to the 6m who travelled with it in the same period of 2019 and the 5.8m in 2018 before the pandemic hit. And ships are projected to be full for the rest of the year. All aboard: Paul Ludlow (pictured), president of P&O Cruises parent company Carnival UK, has been on a mission to get youngsters onto their vessels. Cruises across the Caribbean are proving particularly popular for this winter, Ludlow said, as well as jaunts in the Med. The cruise giant, meanwhile, continues to hike its prices, with the average P&O trip costing cruisers an average 120 a night. A 14-night Caribbean cruise over Christmas on board the Britannia starts at 1,499 but can be considerably more expensive depending on the cabin and other options. Despite the stereotypical image of those who go on cruise ship holidays, Ludlow, 44, has been on a mission to get youngsters onto their vessels, investing in alternative restaurants such as sushi or vegan food as well as gimmicky escape rooms across newer ships. His efforts have seen the median age of a cruise goer drop to 46, having fallen every year for the past decade. Carnival was founded in Florida in 1972 by businessman Ted Arison, who was also behind Norwegian Cruise Lines. The P&O brand, however, dates all the way back to the 1830s when it was a shipping firm. Carnival has since grown into an industry behemoth with 9 separate brands and over 90 ships in its fleet, including seven P&O Cruises vessels, sailing to the four corners of the world. But a major obstacle that is likely to put off many eco- conscious youngsters is the industrys well-documented impact on the environment. The cruise business is a major global polluter, with studies suggesting that one large ship releases a carbon footprint greater than 12,000 cars. In 2016, Carnival-owned Princess Cruises agreed to pay a 31million penalty in the US for illegally dumping oil-contaminated waste into the sea and acts by employees to try to cover up the incident. Three years later, Carnival agreed to pay an additional 16million for violating probation terms. Ludlow said he always invites conversation about climate change but said that the industry had made consider-able strides. But aside from environmental concerns, Ludlow has had a busy in-tray to deal with. It was his job to steer P&O through the various Covid lockdowns, where cruise liners were being branded plague ships. Speaking from his nautical-themed office at P&Os Southampton headquarters, Ludlow said this coverage was unfair during an incredibly difficult time for the 200-year-old brand. Expansion: Carnival now has 24 ships in its fleet, including seven P&O vessels, sailing to the four corners of the world The cruise industry initially made the news unfairly I think because, at the time, there were a lot of people who were very scared, he said. The logistical operation was nothing Id ever seen before. We were working day and night with big maps on the wall and plotting how we could repatriate people to their homes. To make matters worse, this all coincided with the business trying to get to grips with the changes caused by Brexit. Visa rules were overhauled when ships docked and guidelines about onward passage had to be revamped. Carnival lost an estimated 7billion in 2020 because of the pandemic, with a further 6billion blow the following year. But just when the company thought it was out of the woods with Covid, it was hit with another tornado the P&O Ferries debacle. Despite being an entirely separate business, P&O Cruises suffered a backlash when the ferries company illegally sacked nearly 800 workers over Zoom in March 2022. People misattributed cruises with ferries, he said. Clearly still frustrated by the drama of it all, Ludlow added: We had to work really hard to try and dispel that myth. His team even ran a large-scale campaign at the time, distancing itself from the ferries business out of fear that consumers may boycott the brand. A statement at the time made clear that: Our names may both begin with P&O. But thats where the similarity ends. P&O Cruises became part of the Carnival group in 2003. P&O Ferries is owned by Dubai-based DP World. Ludlow said: We had to ride through it. It was unhelpful. It was difficult to deal with post- pandemic when we thought we were moving through it with brighter times. Having grown up between the Isle of Wight and London, Ludlow was hooked on travel straight out of university when he became a Tui representative. He spent nine months in the sun in Cyprus, booking customers excursions and arranging airport transfers. What I learned is that I love the travel industry and working for a business where you inherently sell happiness and holidays are really important for that, he said. He later joined the Carnival graduate scheme in 2001, working his way up from the sales team to president of Carnival UK, which means he runs Cunard, Carnivals luxury business, and P&O cruises globally, managing 2,000 staff at the Southampton office and 14,000 employees at sea. And despite the challenges that have been thrown at him in the past two decades, Ludlow remains largely upbeat about the future of his industry and specifically P&O Cruises place in the British psyche. He said: Brands like us are part of the DNA of Britain they have incredible history and weathered storms in the past and people can put trust in us. The rush to electric cars will blow a 9billion black hole in the public purse by 2030, ministers were warned yesterday. Experts said fuel duty receipts would fall by around this much because of the Government's 2030 ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars. Electric cars are also currently exempt from road tax, which is projected to cost the public finances hundreds of millions of pounds more. Towns and cities across the country could also become gridlocked without new taxes such as pay-per-mile road pricing, ministers were warned. It will pile pressure on ministers to come clean about whether they will introduce new road taxes to plug the hole and about the true cost of going electric. The rush to electric cars will blow a 9billion black hole in the public purse by 2030, ministers were warned yesterday (Stock Image) The warning from experts came at a hearing of the Lords' environment and climate change committee, which has launched an inquiry into electric vehicles (EVs) and whether the Government's 2030 ban is realistic. Jonathan Marshall, senior economist at think-tank the Resolution Foundation, said that the longer the Government delays coming clean about how it plans to fill the 9billion gap, the greater the tax burden on lower-income motorists will become. He told the committee: 'We estimate that there will be a black hole in fuel duty of around 9billion per year just by the end of this decade, which is getting on for a third of the total that this tax raises. 'On top of that, without further changes to the vehicle excise duty (road tax) regime there'll be loss of revenue from there. 'There is undoubtedly a huge fiscal issue coming from a lack of vehicle taxation and that's something that needs to be filled. 'And without a way of putting that cost onto driving, congestion in the UK will get even worse than it is.' He added: 'If you can extricate yourself from fuel duty by buying an electric car, the burden of that tax falls on those who can't do so, and that'll be those on lower incomes who'll be paying more tax [in fuel duty] to get around compared to those who have chosen not to pay that tax [by going electric]... it's a situation that needs to be faced up to fairly soon. Electric cars are currently exempt from road tax, which is projected to cost the public finances hundreds of millions of pounds more (Stock Image) 'Obviously it's a difficult conversation to be had with many drivers, but the longer it goes the least sustainable it seems to be getting.' EVs have price tags as much as 10,000 more expensive than petrol or diesel equivalents, making them unaffordable for lower-income drivers. READ MORE: Car makers accused of prioritising expensive electric SUVs for profit over small affordable cars Fuel duty and road tax receipts combined currently net the Treasury around 34billion to 35billion every year. The former is charged at 52.95 pence per litre at the pumps, accounting for around 30 of the cost of filling the typical 55-litre tank in a family car. Road tax, also known as vehicle excise duty (VED), is currently charged at 140 a year for cars first registered post-April 1, 2017. EVs are exempt because they emit zero carbon emissions, but will start paying VED from April 2025. Peers were also told that the 2030 cliff-edge could be counter-productive in terms of reducing carbon emissions because drivers may buy fossil fuel cars ahead of the deadline and hold onto them. Steve Gooding, director of the RAC Foundation, told the committee: 'The risk that comes with those dates [of 2030], is if say there was a constraint on the availability of new vehicles, if that wasn't meeting the market demand...we could see people using their older internal consumption engine vehicles for longer. Electric vehicles have price tags as much as 10,000 more expensive than petrol or diesel equivalents, making them unaffordable for lower-income drivers (Stock Image) 'If that means more of us driving more internal combustion engine miles then that's a problem for achieving the climate objective.' Dr Russell Fowler, senior project manager at the National Grid, said he was 'confident' that the nation's grid could handle the transition despite previous concerns that upgrading the grid is not happening quickly enough to meet the expected surge in demand for electricity. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been under pressure to ditch the 2030 target amid concerns over the cost to motorists and charging infrastructure not being rolled out quickly enough, with the Daily Mail launching a campaign urging him to re-think it. The Treasury was contacted for comment. ABM Industries Incorporated, through its subsidiaries, engages in the provision of integrated facility, infrastructure, and mobility solutions in the United States and internationally. The company operates through Business & Industry, Manufacturing & Distribution, Education, Aviation, and Technical Solutions segments. The company offers janitorial, facilities engineering, and parking services for commercial real estate properties, including corporate offices for high tech clients, sports and entertainment venues, and traditional hospitals and non-acute healthcare facilities; provides vehicle maintenance and other services to rental car providers. It also offers integrated facility services, engineering, and other specialized services in different types of manufacturing, distribution, and data center facilities. In addition, the company delivers custodial and landscaping and grounds for public school districts, private schools, colleges, and universities. Further, it supports airlines and airports with services comprising passenger assistance, catering logistics, air cabin maintenance, and transportation services. Additionally, the company provides electric vehicle power design, installation, and maintenance, as well as microgrid systems installations. ABM Industries Incorporated was founded in 1909 and is based in New York, New York. Aflac (NYSE:AFL) pays an annual dividend of $1.68 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 2.20%. The company has been increasing its dividend for 41 consecutive years, indicating the company has a strong committment to maintain and grow its dividend. The dividend payout ratio is 22.46%. This payout ratio is at a healthy, sustainable level, below 75%. Based on earnings estimates, AFL will have a dividend payout ratio of 27.14% next year. This indicates that the company will be able to sustain or increase its dividend. Read our dividend analysis for AFL. Tan Chengjun (C), a member of the Photojournalist Society of China, talks with herdsmen in the pastoral area of Solbastao in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Aug. 12, 2023. (Xinhua/Hu Huhu) URUMQI, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- After a full day of riding horseback, Ahli Tudahen finally found a spot on the pasture with cell phone reception. Not wasting a single second, he hurried to post his latest works of art online -- a couple of photos. Ahli lives in the vast pastoral area of Solbastao in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, northwest China. According to the local herdsman, the grazing grasslands are so secluded that even after reaching the end of the roads accessible by vehicles, one still needs to ride on horseback for two days. This quiet life, however, offers endless inspiration for Ahli and his some 70 fellow herdsmen in the "Wumot" photography team. The word "Wumot" means "hope" in Kazakh. Since its establishment in 2018, the team has amassed a collection of over 10,000 photographs showcasing the exquisite pastoral landscapes and nomadic lifestyle. These images, which encapsulate the charm of cattle, sheep, and day-to-day life on the pasture, have mostly been captured with cell phones. The passion for photography in Solbastao was ignited by a romantic event. In 2018, Tan Chengjun, a member of the Photojournalist Society of China, was invited to shoot wedding photos for Ahelitay, the son of a herdsman he was well acquainted with. "Mr. Tan is a photographer!" The news spread quickly. As more and more herdsmen asked Tan to teach them how to shoot photos, the experienced photographer decided to form the "Wumot" team and took on the role of team supervisor. "For the herdsman and me, photography adds happiness to our life," said Tan. "Life in the pastoral areas can sometimes be monotonous, but teaching herdsman to capture the beauty of their surroundings with their mobile phones can enhance their spiritual experiences." Photographic terminology is difficult for these pastoral students to understand, so Tan tries to explain things in a more accessible manner -- "A well-composed photo is like a weighing scale. To keep the balance, you can't put heavy things on one side and light things on the other;" or, "try to add more colors in your photo. Just like wearing some make-up before you go out." Instead of overwhelming pastoral students by pumping too many skills into their heads, Tan aims to foster a natural path of development. Although Huan Husayin has bought a camera and some other team members plan to buy a drone, most herdsman photographers shoot with their cell phones. The equipment they use might be simple, but the outcomes "have really blown my mind," said Tan. Tan's favorite picture is Aray's "Horseback People," which was taken from behind the head of a horse facing the lush mountains in the distance. "The horseback people are not seen in the picture, but it conveys Kazakh people's strong feelings towards the pastures, the horses and their nomad lifestyle," Tan commented. Tan has also been impressed by the herdsmen's unique observations of their daily life -- a cow worriedly watching its calf crossing a river, a little girl enjoying her summer vacation sitting in a manger, and a lamb that has just been born, still shrouded with the placenta. "Pressing the shutter is just as simple as shepherding," said a herdsman. "These photos have a special pleasing quality about them, with a rich range of subjects. This is something that not even professional photographers can achieve," said Tan. "The magnificent mountains, the migration, and the bond between humans and animals... They are all very good subjects." Tan hopes, with his guidance, herdsmen can better record their lives, cultivate a perception of beauty, and fully experience the great changes of their hometown. He is happy to see new subjects showing up in their pictures -- beekeeping becoming a new occupation for the Kazakh, the first college graduate joining the local women's federation, and a new recruit saluting his veteran father before he leaves home for the army. With the support of the local government, the team has held three photography exhibitions. A group of four photos titled "Journey to the Alpine Pasture" granted Ahli the first prize in the first exhibition, and he was awarded an electric cooker. In the third exhibition held last year, Ahli displayed 200 photos and grabbed the first prize once again. This time, the reward was 1,000 yuan (138 U.S. dollars). Tan paid a visit to Solbastao last month, but he did not see Ahli around. "Maybe he is grazing his sheep in the mountains," Ahli's neighbor told him. "Or maybe he is searching for signal somewhere. Who knows?" This photo taken on Aug. 11, 2023 with a mobile phone shows Tan Chengjun (L), a member of the Photojournalist Society of China, teaching herdsmen to take photos with a mobile phone in the pastoral area of Solbastao in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Hu Huhu) This photo taken on Aug. 13, 2023 with a mobile phone shows Tan Chengjun (C), a member of the Photojournalist Society of China, explaining photos to herdsmen in the pastoral area of Solbastao in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Hu Huhu) This aerial photo taken on Aug. 16, 2023 shows a view of the pastoral area of Solbastao in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Hu Huhu) The following companies are subsidiares of UnitedHealth Group: 1070715 B.C. 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Lauderdale LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Florida - Jacksonville II LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Florida - Jacksonville LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Florida - Palm Coast LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Florida TCG LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Florida TCS LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Fredericksburg LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Georgia - Atlanta PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Georgia - East Point PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Georgia - Lavonia PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Georgia - Savannah PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Georgia TCG PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Georgia TCS PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Hawaii - Kealakekua Inc., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Hawaii TCG Inc., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Hawaii TCS Inc., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Idaho - Nampa PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Idaho TCG PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Idaho TCS PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Illinois - Downers Grove LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Illinois - Elmhurst LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Illinois - Rockford LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Illinois - Winfield LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Illinois TCG LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Illinois TCS LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Indiana - Clinton LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Indiana - Mishawaka LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Indiana - Terre Haute LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Indiana LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Indiana TCG LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Indiana TCS LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Iowa - Cedar Rapids PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Iowa - Mason City PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Iowa PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Iowa TCG PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Iowa TCS PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Kansas - Topeka LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Kansas - Wichita II LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Kansas - Wichita LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Kansas TCG LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Kansas TCS LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Louisiana - Alexandria Inc., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Louisiana - Bossier City Inc., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Louisiana - Lake Charles Inc., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Louisiana - Shreveport Inc., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Louisiana TCG Inc., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Louisiana TCS Inc., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Maine - Bangor PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Maine - Lewiston PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Maine TCG PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Maine TCS PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Maryland - Cheverly PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Maryland - Cumberland PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Maryland - Frederick PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Maryland - Laurel PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Maryland - Rockville PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Maryland P.C., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Maryland TCG PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Maryland TCS PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Massachusetts - Brockton PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Massachusetts - Dorchester PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Massachusetts - Framingham PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Massachusetts - Holyoke PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Massachusetts - Natick PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Massachusetts - Norwood PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Massachusetts - Springfield PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Massachusetts - Stoughton PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Massachusetts - Taunton PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Massachusetts - Worcester PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Massachusetts TCG PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Massachusetts TCS PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Michigan - Alpena PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Michigan - Dowagiac PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Michigan - Escanaba PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Michigan - Grand Blanc PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Michigan - Grayling PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Michigan - Kalamazoo PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Michigan - Plainwell PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Michigan - Port Huron PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Michigan - Saginaw PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Michigan - Tawas City PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Michigan PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Michigan TCG PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Michigan TCS PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Minnesota TCG LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Minnesota TCS LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Mississippi LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Mississippi TCG Inc., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Mississippi TCS Inc., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Missouri - Bridgeton Inc., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Missouri - Richmond Heights Inc., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Missouri TCG Inc., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Missouri TCS Inc., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Montana - Billings PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Montana - Butte PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Montana - Miles City PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Montana - Missoula PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Montana TCG PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Montana TCS PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Multiple Practice Sites LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Nebraska TCG LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Nebraska TCS LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Nevada - Henderson Bessler PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Nevada - Henderson II Bessler PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Nevada - Las Vegas Bessler PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Nevada - Las Vegas II Bessler PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Nevada TCG Bessler PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Nevada TCS Bessler PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of New Hampshire TCG PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of New Hampshire TCS PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of New Jersey - Hackensack PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of New Jersey - Paterson PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of New Jersey - TCG PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of New Jersey TCS PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of New Mexico - Clovis LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of New Mexico - Rio Rancho LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of New Mexico - TCG LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of New Mexico - TCS LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of New York PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of North Carolina - Burlington PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of North Carolina - Clyde PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of North Carolina - Elizabeth City PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of North Carolina - Jacksonville PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of North Carolina - New Bern PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of North Carolina - Rocky Mount PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of North Carolina PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of North Carolina TCG PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of North Carolina TCS PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of North Dakota TCG PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of North Dakota TCS PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Ohio - Akron Professional Corporation, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Ohio - Batavia Professional Corporation, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Ohio - Canton Professional Corporation, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Ohio - Cincinnati II Professional Corporation, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Ohio - Cincinnati III Professional Corporation, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Ohio - Cincinnati Professional Corporation, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Ohio - Circleville Professional Corporation, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Ohio - Columbus II Professional Corporation, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Ohio - Columbus Professional Corporation, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Ohio - Dover Professional Corporation, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Ohio - East Liverpool Professional Corporation, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Ohio - Fairfield Professional Corporation, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Ohio - Martins Ferry Professional Corporation, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Ohio - Westerville Professional Corporation, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Ohio - Youngstown Professional Corporation, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Ohio Professional Corporation, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Ohio TCG Professional Corporation, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Ohio TCS Professional Corporation, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Oklahoma - Oklahoma City LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Oklahoma TCG LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Oklahoma TCS LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Oregon - Portland PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Oregon TCG PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Oregon TCS PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Pennsylvania P.C., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Pennsylvania TCG PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Pennsylvania TCS PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Rhode Island TCG LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Rhode Island TCS LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Richland County Ltd., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of San Luis Obispo County Inc., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of South Carolina - Aiken LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of South Carolina - Rock Hill LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of South Carolina TCG LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of South Carolina TCS LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of South Dakota TCG LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of South Dakota TCS LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Tennessee Columbia PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Tennessee Franklin PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Tennessee TCG PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Tennessee TCS PC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Amarillo PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Atlanta PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Austin II PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Austin PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Bryan PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Burnet PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Corpus Christi II PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Corpus Christi PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Cypress PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Dallas PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - El Paso II PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - El Paso III PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - El Paso PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Fort Worth II PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Fort Worth PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Fredericksburg PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Houston PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Humble PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Kerrville PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Kyle PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Livingston PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Lubbock PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Lufkin PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Mount Pleasant PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Plainview PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Rockwall PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Round Rock PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - San Antonio II PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - San Antonio III PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - San Antonio IV PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - San Antonio PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - San Antonio V PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - San Antonio VI PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - San Antonio VII PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - San Marcos PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Texarkana PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas - Tyler PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas TCG PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Texas TCS PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Utah TCG LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Utah TCS LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Vermont TCG LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Vermont TCS LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Virginia - Alexandria LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Virginia - Front Royal II LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Virginia - Front Royal LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Virginia - Mechanicsville LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Virginia - Midlothian LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Virginia - Richmond II LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Virginia - Richmond LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Virginia - Winchester LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Virginia LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Virginia TCG LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Virginia TCS LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington - Arlington PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington - Auburn PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington - Bellingham PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington - Bremerton PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington - Burien PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington - Coupeville PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington - Enumclaw PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington - Federal Way PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington - Gig Harbor PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington - Lakewood PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington - Mount Vernon PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington - Puyallup PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington - Tacoma II PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington - Tacoma III PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington - Tacoma PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington - Vancouver PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington County LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington TCG PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Washington TCS PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of West Virginia PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of West Virginia Martinsburg PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of West Virginia South Charleston PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of West Virginia TCG PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of West Virginia TCS PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of West Virginia Wheeling PLLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Wisconsin Ltd., Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Wyoming - Casper LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Wyoming TCG LLC, Hospitalist Medicine Physicians of Wyoming TCS LLC, Hospitalists Management Group LLC, Humedica, Humedica Inc., Hygeia Corporation, Hygeia Corporation Ontario, IEC Holdings LLC, IHD Holdings LLC, INOV8 Surgical at Memorial City LLC, INSPIRIS of Texas Physician Group, Illinois Independent Care Network LLC, Imagen Technologies Inc., Impel Consulting Experts L.L.C., Impel Management Services L.L.C., InTouch Pharmacy LLC, Indiana Care Organization LLC, Indiana Endoscopy Centers LLC, Inland Surgery Center L.P., Inmobiliaria Apoquindo 3001 S.A., Inmobiliaria Apoquindo 3600 Ltda., Inmobiliaria Apoquindo S.A., Inmobiliaria Clinica Santa Maria S.A., Inmobiliaria Vinamed Ltda., Inmobiliaria e Inversiones Alameda S.A., Inpatient Services P.C., Inpatient Specialists of California P.C., Inspiris, Inspiris Inc., Instituto Radium de Cammpinas Ltda, Inter-Hospital Physicians Association Inc., International Healthcare Services Inc., Inversiones Clinicas Santa Maria SpA, Ironman Holdco Inc., Ironman Intermediate Holdco LLC, Isapre Banmedica S.A., JPM Healthcare LLC, Johnston Surgicare L.P., Joliet Surgery Center Limited Partnership, Jordan Ridge Family Medicine LLC, Joyable Inc., Kansal Inc. A Professional Corporation, Knox Diagnostic Imaging Center LLC, Kokomo Outpatient Surgery Center LLC, LDI Holding Company LLC, LDI Management Services LLC, LGH-A/Golf ASTC L.L.C., LHC Group, La Esperanza del Peru S.A., Laboratorio ROE S.A., Laboratorios Medicos Amed Quilpue S.A., Landmark Group Holdings LLC, Landmark Health Holdings LLC, Landmark Health LLC, Landmark Health NY IPA LLC, Landmark Health NY PO LLC, Landmark Health Technologies Private Limited, Landmark Health of California LLC, Landmark Health of Massachusetts LLC, Landmark Health of North Carolina LLC, Landmark Health of Oregon LLC, Landmark Health of Pennsylvania LLC, Landmark Health of Washington LLC, Landmark India LLC, Landmark Intermediate Holdings LLC, Landmark MSO LLC, Landmark Medical of Idaho PC, Landmark Medical of Massachusetts PLLC, Landmark Medical of Tennessee PC, Landmark Primary Care LLC, Laser Acquisition Holdings III LLC, Leehar Distributors LLC, Lemhi Ventures Fund I LP, Lemhi Ventures Fund II LP, Level2 Medical Services P.C. Alaska, Lexington Surgery Center Ltd., Liberty Anesthesia Services LLC, LifePrint Health Inc., LifeWell. Ltd. Co., Lifeprint Accountable Care Organization LLC, Limestone Medical Center LLC, Litomedica S.A., Logan Surgical Suites LLC, Lotten-Eyes Oftalmologia Clinica e Cirurgica Ltda., Louisville S.C. Ltd., Louisville-SC Properties Inc., Loyola Ambulatory Surgery Center at Oakbrook Inc., Loyola Ambulatory Surgery Center at Oakbrook L.P., Lusiadas - Parcerias Cascais S.A., Lusiadas A.C.E., Lusiadas Algarve S.A., Lusiadas S.A., Lusiadas SGPS S.A., Lutheran Campus ASC LLC, MAMSI Life and Health Insurance Company, MCNA Health Care Holdings LLC, MCNA Insurance Company, MCNA Systems Corp., MD Ops Inc., MD-Individual Practice Association Inc., ME AHS UC LLC, MGH/SCA LLC, MHC Real Estate Holdings LLC, MIAMI SURGERY CENTER LLC, MSLA Management LLC, Main Line Spine Surgery Center LLC, Managed Care of North America Inc., Managed Physical Network Inc., Mansfield Endoscopy Center LLC, March Holdings Inc., March Vision Care IPA Inc., March Vision Care Inc., March Vision Care of Texas Inc., Marin Health Ventures LLC, Marin Specialty Surgery Center LLC, Marin Surgery Holdings Inc., Marlin Holding Company LLC, Maryland Ambulatory Centers LLC, Maryland-SCA Centers LLC, Massachusetts Assurance Company Ltd. PIC, Massachusetts Avenue Surgery Center LLC, McKenzie Surgery Center L.P., MedExpress Primary Care West Virginia Inc., MedExpress Urgent Care Alabama LLC, MedExpress Urgent Care Inc. - Ohio, MedExpress Urgent Care Maine Inc., MedExpress Urgent Care New Hampshire Inc., MedExpress Urgent Care of Boynton Beach LLC, MedSynergies, MedSynergies LLC, Medical Clinic of North Texas PLLC, Medical Hilfe S.A., Medical Support Los Angeles Inc., Medical Surgical Centers of America Inc., Medical Transportation Services LLC, Melbourne Surgery Center LLC, Memorial City Holdings LLC, Memorial City Partners LLC, Memorial Houston Surgery Center LLC, MemorialCare Surgical Center at Orange Coast LLC, MemorialCare Surgical Center at Saddleback LLC, Mesquite Liberty LLC, Metro I Stone Management Ltd., Mid Atlantic Medical Services, Mid-West National Life Insurance Company of Tennessee, Midlands Orthopaedics Surgery Center LLC, Midwest Center for Day Surgery LLC, Mile High SurgiCenter LLC, Mississippi Medical Plaza L.C., Mobile Medical Services of New Jersey PC, Mobile-SC LTD., Modality Accountable Care Organisation Limited, Moen M.D. P.C., Mohawk Surgery Center LLC, Monarch Management Services Inc., Montgomery Surgery Center Limited Partnership, Monument Health LLC, Moore Orthopaedic Clinic Outpatient Surgery Center LLC, Morris County Surgical Center LLC, Mt. Pleasant Surgery Center L.P., Multiangio Ltda., Murrells Inlet ASC LLC, Muskogee Surgical Investors LLC, Mustang Razorback Holdings Inc., My Wellness Solutions LLC, NAMM Holdings Inc., NPN IPA Washington PLLC, NSC Channel Islands LLC, NSC Greensboro LLC, NSC Greensboro West LLC, NSC Lancaster LLC, NSC Seattle Inc., NSC Upland LLC, Naperville Surgical Centre LLC, National Foundation Life Insurance Company, National Pacific Dental Inc., National Surgery Centers LLC, Navigator Health Inc., Nebraska Spine Hospital LLC, Neighborhood Health Partnership Inc., Netwerkes LLC, Nevada Pacific Dental, New Orleans Regional Physician Hospital Organization L.L.C., New West Physicians Inc., New York Proton Management LLC, Newton Holdings LLC, Niagara Hospitalist P.C., Nomad Buyer Inc., North American Medical Management California Inc., North Coast Surgery Center Ltd. a California Limited Partnership, North Dallas Surgical Center LLC, North Kitsap Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, North Puget Sound Oncology Equipment Leasing Company LLC, Northern Nevada Health Network Inc., Northern Rockies Surgery Center L.P., Northern Rockies Surgicenter Inc., Northern Utah Surgery Center LLC, Northwest Hills JV Partners LLC, Northwest Medical Group Alliance LLC, Northwest Spine and Laser Surgery Center LLC, Northwest Surgicare LLC, Northwest Surgicare Ltd. an Illinois Limited Partnership, OC Cardiology Practice Partners LLC, OCC MSO LLC, OSB Tecnologia e Servicos de Suporte Lda., Omesa SpA, OmniClaim LLC, Oncocare S.A.C., One World Surgery, Ophthalmology Surgery Center of Dallas LLC, Optimum Choice Inc., Optum Bank Inc., Optum Biometrics Inc., Optum Care Inc., Optum Care Networks Inc., Optum Care Services Company, Optum Care of New York Management Inc., Optum Clinics Holdings Inc., Optum Clinics Intermediate Holdings Inc., Optum Compounding Services LLC, Optum Digital Health Holdings LLC, Optum Direct To Consumer Inc., Optum Financial Inc., Optum Frontier Therapies Holdings LLC, Optum Frontier Therapies II LLC, Optum Frontier Therapies LLC, Optum Genomics Inc., Optum Global Solutions Colombia S.A.S., Optum Global Solutions India Private Limited, Optum Global Solutions International B.V., Optum Global Solutions Philippines Inc., Optum Government Solutions Inc., Optum Growth Partners Holdings Inc., Optum Growth Partners LLC, Optum Health & Technology Holdings US Inc., Optum Health & Technology Hong Kong Limited, Optum Health & Technology India Private Limited, Optum Health & Technology Servicos do Brasil Ltda., Optum Health & Technology Singapore Pte. Ltd., Optum Health & Technology US LLC, Optum Health Plan of California, Optum Health Services Canada Ltd., Optum Health Solutions Australia Pty Ltd, Optum Health Solutions UK Limited, Optum Health and Technology FZ-LLC, Optum Healthcare of Illinois Inc., Optum Hospice Pharmacy Services LLC, Optum Inc., Optum Infusion Services 100 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 101 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 103 LLC, Optum Infusion Services 200 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 201 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 202 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 203 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 204 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 205 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 206 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 207 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 208 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 209 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 301 LP, Optum Infusion Services 302 LLC, Optum Infusion Services 305 LLC, Optum Infusion Services 308 LLC, Optum Infusion Services 401 LLC, Optum Infusion Services 402 LLC, Optum Infusion Services 403 LLC, Optum Infusion Services 404 LLC, Optum Infusion Services 500 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 501 Inc., Optum Infusion Services 550 LLC, Optum Infusion Services 551 LLC, Optum Infusion Services 553 LLC, Optum Infusion Services 554 Inc., Optum Insurance of Ohio Inc., Optum Labs Inc., Optum Labs LLC, Optum Life Sciences Canada Inc., Optum Management Consulting Shanghai Co. Ltd., Optum Networks of New Jersey Inc., Optum Operations Ireland Unlimited Company, Optum Oregon MSO LLC, Optum Palliative and Hospice Care of Pennsylvania Inc., Optum Palliative and Hospice Care of Texas Inc., Optum Perks LLC, Optum Pharma Services Holdings Inc., Optum Pharmacy 601 LLC, Optum Pharmacy 700 LLC, Optum Pharmacy 701 LLC, Optum Pharmacy 702 LLC, Optum Pharmacy 704 Inc., Optum Pharmacy 705 LLC, Optum Pharmacy 706 Inc., Optum Pharmacy 707 Inc., Optum Pharmacy 800 Inc., Optum Pharmacy 803 Inc., Optum Pharmacy 805 Inc., Optum Pharmacy 806 Inc., Optum Public Sector Solutions Inc., Optum Rocket LLC, Optum SCA CS JV Holdings LLC, Optum Senior Services LLC, Optum Services Inc., Optum Services Ireland Limited, Optum Services Puerto Rico LLC, Optum Solutions UK Holdings Limited, Optum Technology LLC, Optum UK Solutions Group Limited, Optum Venture Global Partners II LP, Optum Venture Global Partners LP, Optum Venture Partners II LP, Optum Venture Partners III LP, Optum Venture Partners LP, Optum Washington Network LLC, Optum Women's and Children's Health LLC, Optum of New York Inc., Optum360 LLC, Optum360 Services Inc., Optum360 Solutions LLC, OptumCare ACO New Mexico LLC, OptumCare ACO West LLC, OptumCare Clinical Trials LLC, OptumCare Colorado ASC LLC, OptumCare Colorado LLC, OptumCare Colorado Springs LLC, OptumCare Endoscopy Center New Mexico LLC, OptumCare Florida CI LLC, OptumCare Florida LLC, OptumCare Holdings Colorado LLC, OptumCare Holdings LLC, OptumCare Management LLC, OptumCare New Mexico LLC, OptumCare New York IPA Inc., OptumCare Portland LLC, OptumCare South Florida LLC, OptumCare Specialty Practices LLC, OptumHealth Care Solutions LLC, OptumHealth Holdings LLC, OptumHealth International B.V., OptumInsight Holdings LLC, OptumInsight Inc., OptumInsight India Private Limited, OptumInsight Life Sciences Inc., OptumRx Administrative Services LLC, OptumRx Discount Card Services LLC, OptumRx Group Holdings Inc., OptumRx Health Solutions LLC, OptumRx Holdings I LLC, OptumRx Holdings LLC, OptumRx Home Delivery of Ohio LLC, OptumRx IPA III Inc., OptumRx Inc., OptumRx NY IPA Inc., OptumRx PBM of Illinois Inc., OptumRx PBM of Maryland LLC, OptumRx PBM of Pennsylvania LLC, OptumRx PBM of Wisconsin LLC, OptumRx PD of Pennsylvania LLC, OptumRx Pharmacy Inc., OptumRx Pharmacy of Nevada Inc., OptumRx of Pennsylvania LLC, OptumServe Technology Services Inc., Oregon Healthcare Resources LLC, Oregon Outpatient Surgery Center LLC, Orlando Center for Outpatient Surgery L.P., OrthoNet Holdings Inc., OrthoNet LLC, OrthoNet New York IPA Inc., OrthoNet West Inc., OrthoNet of the South Inc., OrthoWest MSO LLC, Orthology Inc., Orthopedic Center of Palm Beach County LLC, Orthopedic Surgery Center of Palm Beach County LLC, Orthopro Management LLC, Ovations Inc., Owensboro Ambulatory Surgical Facility Ltd., Oxford Benefit Management Inc., Oxford Health Insurance Inc., Oxford Health Plans CT Inc., Oxford Health Plans LLC, Oxford Health Plans NJ Inc., Oxford Health Plans NY Inc., P2P Link LLC, PCCCV Inc., PHC Subsidiary Holdings LLC, PHYSICIANS DAY SURGERY CENTER LLC, PMI Acquisition LLC, PMSI Holdings LLC, PMSI Settlement Solutions LLC, POMCO Inc., POMCO Network Inc., PPH Holdings LLC, PPH Management Company L.L.C., PPH-Columbia Inc., PPH-Gardendale Inc., PS Center LLC, PacifiCare Health Systems, PacifiCare Life Assurance Company, PacifiCare Life and Health Insurance Company, PacifiCare of Arizona Inc., PacifiCare of Colorado Inc., Pacific Cardiovascular Associates Medical Group Inc., Pacific Casualty Company Inc., Pacifico S.A. Entidad Prestadora de Salud, Panama City Surgery Center LLC, Park Hill Surgery Center LLC, Parkway Surgery Center LLC, Patient Care Associates L.L.C., PatientsLikeMe, Patrimonio Autonomo Nueva Clinica, Payment Resolution Services LLC, Peninsula Eye Surgery Center LLC, Penzo Enterprises LLC, Peoples Health, Peoples Health Inc., Perham Physical Therapy LTD, Perimeter Center for Outpatient Surgery L.P., Pharmaceutical Technologies LLC, Physician Alliance of the Rockies LLC, Physicians Health Choice of Texas LLC, Physicians Health Plan of Maryland Inc., Physicians' Surgery Center of Downey LLC, Pinnacle III LLC, Plano de Saude Ana Costa Ltda., Plus One Health Management Puerto Rico Inc., Plus One Holdings Inc., Pocono Ambulatory Surgery Center Limited, Polar II Fundo de Investimento em Participacoes Multiestrategia, Polo Holdco LLC, Pomerado Outpatient Surgical Center Inc., Pomerado Outpatient Surgical Center L.P., Post-Acute Care Center for Research LLC, Practice Partners in Healthcare LLC, Preferred Care Network Inc., Preferred Care Network of Florida Inc., Preferred Care Partners Holding Corp., Preferred Care Partners Inc., Preferred Care Partners Medical Group Inc., PreferredOne, PreferredOne Administrative Services Inc., PreferredOne Insurance Company, Premier Choice ACO Inc., Premier Surgery Center of Louisville L.P., Premiere Medical Resources LLC, Presidio Surgery Center LLC, Prime Health Inc., PrimeCare Medical Network Inc., PrimeCare of Citrus Valley Inc., PrimeCare of Corona Inc., PrimeCare of Hemet Valley Inc., PrimeCare of Inland Valley Inc., PrimeCare of Moreno Valley Inc., PrimeCare of Redlands Inc., PrimeCare of Riverside Inc., PrimeCare of San Bernardino Inc., PrimeCare of Sun City Inc., PrimeCare of Temecula Inc., PrimeDoc St. Francis P.C., PrimeDoc of Richmond P.C., ProHEALTH Care Associates L.L.P., ProHEALTH Care Associates of New Jersey LLP, ProHEALTH Medical Management LLC, ProHealth Physicians ACO LLC, ProHealth Physicians Inc., ProHealth Proton Center Management LLC, ProHealth/CareMount Dental Management LLC, Procura Management Inc., Professional Coverage Services PLLC, Progressive Enterprises Holdings Inc., Progressive Medical LLC, Promotora Country S.A., Pronounced Health Solutions Inc., Prosemedic S.A.C., Prospero Benefits Management LLC, Prospero Care Management LLC, Prospero Management Services LLC, Providence & SCA Development LLC, Providence & SCA Off-Campus Holdings LLC, Providence & SCA On-Campus Holdings LLC, Providence & SCA Outreach Markets Holdings LLC, Pulse Platform LLC, QoL Acquisition Holdings Corp., R Cubed Inc., RABessler M.D. P.C., ROC Surgery LLC, ROCS Holdings LLC, RX Ricardo Campos Ltda., Rally Health Inc., ReMedics LLC, Real Appeal Inc., Redding Surgery Center LLC, Redlands Ambulatory Surgery Center, Redlands-SCA Surgery Centers Inc., Reliant MSO LLC, Reliant Medical Group Inc., Reliant Medical Group The Endoscopy Center LLC, Research Surgical Center LLC, Resonancia Magnetica de Colombia Ltda., Resonancia Magnetica del Country S.A., RightCare Solutions Inc., River Valley ASC LLC, Riverside Corporate Wellness LLC, Riverside Electronic Healthcare Resources Inc., Riverside Medical Management LLC, Riverside Surgical Center of Meadowlands LLC, Riverside Surgical Center of Newark LLC, Robert A. Bessler MD PLLC, Rockville Eye Surgery Center LLC, Rocky Mountain Health Maintenance Organization Incorporated, Rush Oak Brook Surgery Center LLC, SC Affiliates LLC, SCA AHN JV Holdings LLC, SCA Alaska Surgery Center inc., SCA Athens LLC, SCA Austin Holdings LLC, SCA Austin Medical Center Holdings LLC, SCA Aventura Holdings LLC, SCA BOSC Holdings LLC, SCA Bloomfield Holdings LLC, SCA Cedar Park Holdings LLC, SCA Clifton LLC, SCA Colorado Springs Holdings LLC, SCA Community Service Foundation, SCA Cottonwood Holdings LLC, SCA Danbury Surgical Center LLC, SCA Denver Holdings LLC, SCA Development LLC, SCA Duluth Holdings LLC, SCA Duncanville Holdings LLC, SCA Duncanville MSO LLC, SCA ESSC Holdings LLC, SCA Englewood Holdings LLC, SCA Global One Holdings LLC, SCA Greenway Holdings LLC, SCA Grove Creek Holdings LLC, SCA Guilford Holdings LLC, SCA Hays Holdings LLC, SCA Health Value Enterprise LLC, SCA Heartland Holdings LLC, SCA High Point Holdings LLC, SCA HoldCo Inc., SCA Holding Company Inc., SCA Holdings Inc., SCA IEC Holdings LLC, SCA Indiana Holdings LLC, SCA Lutheran Holdings LLC, SCA Maple Grove Holdings LLC, SCA Mohawk Holdings LLC, SCA Murrells Inlet LLC, SCA Northern Utah Holdings LLC, SCA Northwest Holdings LLC, SCA Outside New Jersey LLC, SCA Pacific Holdings Inc., SCA Pacific Surgery Holdings LLC, SCA Palisades Holdings LLC, SCA Pennsylvania Holdings LLC, SCA Pinnacle Holdings LLC, SCA Premier Surgery Center of Louisville LLC, SCA Providence Holdings LLC, SCA ROCS Holdings LLC, SCA Rockledge JV LLC, SCA Rush Oak Brook Holdings LLC, SCA SSSC Holdings LLC, SCA Sage Medical LLC, SCA Sage Medical MSO LLC, SCA San Diego Holdings LLC, SCA Skyway Holdings LLC, SCA South Ogden Holdings LLC, SCA Southwestern PA LLC, SCA Specialists of Florida LLC, SCA Specialty Holdings of Connecticut LLC, SCA Stonegate Holdings LLC, SCA Surgery Holdings LLC, SCA Surgicare of Laguna Hills LLC, SCA Teammate Support Network, SCA West Health Holdings LLC, SCA Westgreen Holdings LLC, SCA Woodbury Holdings LLC, SCA eCode Solutions Private Limited, SCA of Clarksville Inc., SCA-Albuquerque Surgery Properties Inc., SCA-Alliance LLC, SCA-Anne Arundel LLC, SCA-Applecare Partners LLC, SCA-Bethesda LLC, SCA-Blue Ridge LLC, SCA-Bonita Springs LLC, SCA-Brandon LLC, SCA-Castle Rock LLC, SCA-Central Florida LLC, SCA-Charleston LLC, SCA-Chatham LLC, SCA-Chevy Chase LLC, SCA-Citrus Inc., SCA-Colonial Partners LLC, SCA-Colorado Springs LLC, SCA-Connecticut Partners LLC, SCA-DRY CREEK LLC, SCA-Davenport LLC, SCA-Denver LLC, SCA-Denver Physicians Holdings LLC, SCA-Derry LLC, SCA-Doral LLC, SCA-Downey LLC, SCA-Dublin LLC, SCA-Encinitas Inc., SCA-Eugene Inc., SCA-First Coast LLC, SCA-Florence LLC, SCA-Fort Collins Inc., SCA-Fort Walton Inc., SCA-Franklin LLC, SCA-Frederick LLC, SCA-Freeway Holdings LLC, SCA-Ft. Myers LLC, SCA-GRANTS PASS LLC, SCA-Gainesville LLC, SCA-Gladiolus LLC, SCA-Glenwood Holdings LLC, SCA-Grove Place LLC, SCA-Hagerstown LLC, SCA-Hamden LLC, SCA-Hilton Head LLC, SCA-Honolulu LLC, SCA-Houston Executive LLC, SCA-IT Holdings LLC, SCA-Illinois LLC, SCA-JPM Holdings LLC, SCA-Kissing Camels Holdings LLC, SCA-MC VBP Inc., SCA-Main Street LLC, SCA-Marina del Rey LLC, SCA-Mecklenburg Development Corp., SCA-Memorial City LLC, SCA-Memorial LLC, SCA-Merritt LLC, SCA-Midlands LLC, SCA-Midway Management LLC, SCA-Mobile LLC, SCA-Mokena LLC, SCA-Morris Avenue LLC, SCA-Morris County LLC, SCA-Mt. Pleasant LLC, SCA-Naperville LLC, SCA-Naples LLC, SCA-New Jersey LLC, SCA-Newport Beach LLC, SCA-Northeast Georgia Health LLC, SCA-PORTLAND LLC, SCA-Palm Beach LLC, SCA-Palm Beach MSO Holdings LLC, SCA-Panama City Holdings LLC, SCA-Paoli LLC, SCA-Phoenix LLC, SCA-Pocono LLC, SCA-Practice Partners Holdings LLC, SCA-River Valley LLC, SCA-Riverside LLC, SCA-Riverside Partners LLC, SCA-Rockville LLC, SCA-Sacred Heart Holdings LLC, SCA-San Diego Inc., SCA-San Luis Obispo LLC, SCA-Sand Lake LLC, SCA-Santa Rosa Inc., SCA-Somerset LLC, SCA-South Jersey LLC, SCA-Sparta LLC, SCA-Spartanburg Holdings LLC, SCA-St. Louis Holdings LLC, SCA-St. Louis LLC, SCA-St. Lucie LLC, SCA-SurgiCare LLC, SCA-Swiftpath LLC, SCA-VERTA LLC, SCA-VLR Holdings Company LLC, SCA-Wake Forest LLC, SCA-Western Connecticut LLC, SCA-Westover Hills LLC, SCA-Winchester LLC, SCA-Winter Park Inc., SCA-Woodlands Holdings LLC, SCAI Holdings LLC, SCLHS-SCA Holdings LLC, SCP Specialty Infusion LLC, SHC Atlanta LLC, SHC Austin Inc., SHC Hawthorn Inc., SHC Melbourne Inc., SJ East Campus ASC LLC, SRPS LLC, SSSC Holdings LLC, SVHS-SCA Florida JV LLC, Sacred Heart ASC LLC, Saden S.A., Sage Medical Prof. LLC, Salem JV Holdings LLC, Salem Surgery Center LLC, Salveo Specialty Pharmacy Inc., San Diego Endoscopy Center, San Diego Sports and Minimally Invasive Surgery Center LLC, San Francisco Endoscopy Center LLC, San Luis Obispo Surgery Center a California Limited Partnership, Sand Lake SurgiCenter LLC, Santa Barbara Endoscopy Center LLC, Santa Cruz Endoscopy Center LLC, Santa Helena Assistencia Medica S.A., Santa Rosa Surgery Center L.P., Santos Administracao e Participacoes S.A., Sanvello Health Holdings LLC, Sanvello Health Inc., Sanvello Health Limited, Scanner Centromed S.A., Seashore Surgical Institute L.L.C., Seisa Servicos Integrados de Saude Ltda., Senate Street Surgery Center LLC, Senior Benefits L.L.C., Serquinox Holdings LLC, Servicios Integrados de Salud Ltda., Servicios Medicos Amed Quilpue S.A., Servicios Medicos Bio Bio Ltda., Servicios Medicos Ciudad del Mar Ltda., Servicios Medicos Santa Maria Ltda., Servicios Medicos Vespucio Ltda., Servicios de Entrenamiento en Competencias Clinicas Ltda., Serviclinica Inmobiliaria S.A., Serviclinica S.A. Ex Los Leones La Calera, Servisalud Inmobiliaria S.A., Servisalud S.A. Ex Los Carrera Quilpue, Shark Holdings P.C., Sierra Dental Plan Inc., Sierra Health Services Inc, Sierra Health Services Inc., Sierra Health and Life Insurance Company Inc., Sierra Health-Care Options Inc., Sierra Home Medical Products Inc., Sierra Nevada Administrators Inc., Sistema de Administracion Hospitalaria S.A.C., Small Business Insurance Advisors Inc., Sobam Centro Medico Hospitalar S.A., Sociedad de Inversiones Santa Maria SpA, Solstice Administration Services Inc., Solstice Administrators Inc., Solstice Administrators of Alabama Inc., Solstice Administrators of Arizona Inc., Solstice Administrators of Missouri Inc., Solstice Administrators of North Carolina Inc., Solstice Administrators of Texas Inc., Solstice Benefit Services Inc., Solstice Benefits Inc., Solstice Health Insurance Company, Solstice Healthplans Inc., Solstice Healthplans of Arizona Inc., Solstice Healthplans of Colorado Inc., Solstice Healthplans of New Jersey Inc., Solstice Healthplans of Ohio Inc., Solstice Healthplans of Tennessee Inc., Solstice Healthplans of Texas Inc., Solstice of Illinois Inc., Solstice of Minnesota Inc., Solstice of New York Inc., Solutran LLC, Somerset Outpatient Surgery L.L.C., Sound Inpatient Physicians Inc., Sound Inpatient Physicians Medical Group Inc., Sound Inpatient Physicians of Ohio LLC, Sound Inpatient Physicians of Texas I Inc., Sound Inpatient Physicians Michigan PLLC, Sound Intensivists of Nevada RBessler M.D. PLLC, Sound Kenwood Hospitalists of Cincinnati Inc., Sound Kenwood Hospitalists of Cincinnati LLC, Sound Physicians Advisory Services Inc., Sound Physicians Alaska Hospitalist Group LLC, Sound Physicians Anesthesiology of Texas PLLC, Sound Physicians Emergency Medicine of Arizona Inc., Sound Physicians Emergency Medicine of Georgia P.C., Sound Physicians Emergency Medicine of Illinois LLC, Sound Physicians Emergency Medicine of Kansas LLC, Sound Physicians Emergency Medicine of Kentucky PLLC, Sound Physicians Emergency Medicine of Louisiana Inc., Sound Physicians Emergency Medicine of Michigan PLLC, Sound Physicians Emergency Medicine of Nevada Bessler PLLC, Sound Physicians Emergency Medicine of South Carolina LLC, Sound Physicians Emergency Medicine of Southern California P.C., Sound Physicians Emergency Medicine of Texas PLLC, Sound Physicians Emergency Medicine of Washington PLLC, Sound Physicians Emergency Medicine of West Virginia PLLC, Sound Physicians Holdings LLC, Sound Physicians Intensivists of Arizona Inc., Sound Physicians Intensivists of Georgia PC, Sound Physicians Intensivists of South Carolina LLC, Sound Physicians Intensivists of Virginia LLC, Sound Physicians Intensivists of Washington PLLC, Sound Physicians Palliative Care of Maryland P.C., Sound Physicians Telemedicine Inc., Sound Physicians of Florida IV LLC, Sound Physicians of Georgia III P.C., Sound Physicians of Hawaii Inc., Sound Physicians of Idaho PLLC, Sound Physicians of Illinois LLC, Sound Physicians of Indiana LLC, Sound Physicians of Iowa PLLC, Sound Physicians of Kankakee Illinois LLC, Sound Physicians of Massachusetts II P.C., Sound Physicians of Massachusetts Inc., Sound Physicians of New Jersey LLC, Sound Physicians of New York PLLC, Sound Physicians of North Carolina PLLC, Sound Physicians of South Carolina LLC, Sound Physicians of Wyoming LLC, South Arlington Surgical Providers LLC, South County Surgical Center LLC, South Sound Inpatient Physicians PLLC, Southern California Medical Practice Concepts LLC, Southland Hospitalists P.C., Southwest Medical Associates Inc., Southwest Michigan Health Network Inc., Southwest Surgery Center LLC, Southwest Surgical Center LLC, Space Coast Surgical Center Ltd., Spartanburg Surgery Center LLC, Specialists in Urology Surgery Center LLC, Specialized Pharmaceuticals Inc., Specialty Benefits LLC, Specialty Billing Solutions LLC, Specialty Surgical Center LLC, Spectera Inc., Spectera of New York IPA Inc., Sports and Spinal Physical Therapy Inc., St. Cloud Outpatient Surgery Ltd. a Minnesota Limited Partnership, St. Cloud Surgical Center LLC, St. Louis Cardiovascular Institute LLC, St. Louis Specialty Surgical Center LLC, Stonegate JV Partners LLC, Stonegate Surgery Center L.P., Summer Street ASC LLC, SunSurgery LLC, Surgery Center Holding LLC, Surgery Center at Cherry Creek LLC, Surgery Center at Cottonwood LLC, Surgery Center at Grove Creek LLC, Surgery Center at Kissing Camels LLC, Surgery Center at South Ogden LLC, Surgery Center at St. Vincent LLC, Surgery Center of Boca Raton Inc., Surgery Center of Colorado Springs LLC, Surgery Center of Des Moines LLC, Surgery Center of Easton LLC, Surgery Center of Ellicott City Inc., Surgery Center of Fairfield County LLC, Surgery Center of Fort Collins LLC, Surgery Center of Lexington LLC, Surgery Center of Louisville LLC, Surgery Center of Maui LLC, Surgery Center of Mt. Scott LLC, Surgery Center of Muskogee LLC, Surgery Center of Rockville L.L.C., Surgery Center of Southern Pines LLC, Surgery Center of The Woodlands LLC, Surgery Centers of Des Moines Ltd. an Iowa Limited Partnership, Surgery Centers-West Holdings LLC, Surgical Care Affiliates, Surgical Care Affiliates LLC, Surgical Care Affiliates Political Action Committee, Surgical Care Partners of Melbourne LLC, Surgical Caregivers of Fort Worth LLC, Surgical Center of Greensboro LLC, Surgical Center of San Diego LLC, Surgical Center of South Jersey Limited Partnership, Surgical Center of Tuscaloosa Holdings LLC, Surgical Eye Experts LLC, Surgical Health LLC, Surgical Health of Orlando LLC, Surgical Hospital Holdings of Oklahoma LLC, Surgical Management Solutions LLC, Surgicare LLC, Surgicare of Central Jersey LLC, Surgicare of Jackson LLC, Surgicare of Jackson Ltd. a Mississippi Limited Partnership, Surgicare of Joliet Inc., Surgicare of La Veta Inc., Surgicare of La Veta Ltd. a California Limited Partnership, Surgicare of Minneapolis LLC, Surgicare of Minneapolis Ltd. a Minnesota Limited Partnership, Surgicare of Mobile LLC, Surgicare of Mobile Ltd., Surgicare of Oceanside Inc., Surgicare of Owensboro LLC, Surgicare of Salem LLC, Surgicenters of Southern California Inc., Symphonix Health Holdings LLC, T.M. Carr M.D. P.C., THE SURGICAL CENTER OF THE TREASURE COAST L.L.C., THR-SCA Holdings LLC, TeamMD Holdings Inc., TeamMD Iowa Inc., TeamMD Physicians of Texas Inc., TeamUP Insurance Services Inc., Tecnologia de Informacion en Salud S.A., Texas Health Craig Ranch Surgery Center LLC, Texas Health Flower Mound Orthopedic Surgery Center LLC, Texas Health Orthopedic Surgery Center Alliance LLC, Texas Health Surgery Center Alliance LLC, Texas Health Surgery Center Bedford LLC, Texas Health Surgery Center Chisholm Trail LLC, Texas Health Surgery Center Irving LLC, Texas Health Surgery Center Las Colinas LLC, Texas Health Surgery Center Preston Plaza LLC, Texas Health Surgery Center Rockwall LLC, Texas Health Surgery Center Southwest Fort Worth LLC, Texas Health Surgery Center Waxahachie LLC, Texas Health Surgery Center Willow Park LLC, The Advisory Board Company, The Alaska Hospitalist Group LLC, The Chesapeake Life Insurance Company, The Eye Surgery Center of the Carolinas L.P., The Intensivist Group of Langhorne LLC, The Lewin Group Inc., The Outpatient Surgery Center of Hilton Head LLC, The Polyclinic MSO LLC, The Surgery Center of Easton L.P., The Surgical Center of Connecticut LLC, Thomas Johnson Surgery Center LLC, Three Rivers Holdings Inc., Three Rivers Surgical Care L.P., Tmesys LLC, Topimagem Diagnostico por Imagem Ltda., Touchpoint Health Plan, Trails Edge Surgery Center LLC, Trauma Surgery Affiliates LLC, Travel Express Incorporated, Treasure Valley Emerald Properties LLC, Treasure Valley Hospital Limited Partnership, Tri-City Medical Center ASC Operators LLC, Tri-County Surgery Center LLC, Trinity Cardiovascular Care PLLC, Tufts Health Freedom Insurance Company, Tufts Health Freedom Plans Inc., Tuscaloosa Surgical Center L.P., U.S. Behavioral Health Plan California, UCSD Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, UCSD Center for Surgery of Encinitas L.P., UCSD Surgical Center of San Diego LLC, UCSD-SCA Holdings I LLC, UCSD-SCA Holdings II LLC, UHC Finance Ireland Unlimited Company, UHC International Services Inc., UHC of California, UHCG Holdings Ireland Limited, UHCG Services Ireland Limited, UHCG FZE, UHG Brasil Participacoes S.A., UHG Holdings UK IV Limited, UHG Holdings UK V Limited, UHG Holdings UK VI Limited, UHIC Holdings Inc., UMR Inc., UPHT-SCA Holdings LLC, USHEALTH Academy Inc., USHEALTH Administrators LLC, USHEALTH Advisors LLC, USHEALTH Career Agency Inc., USHEALTH Funding Inc., USHEALTH Group Inc., USMD ASC IV1 LLC, USMD ASC IV2 LLC, USMD Administrative Services L.L.C., USMD Affiliated Services, USMD Holdings Inc., USMD Hospital at Arlington L.P., USMD Hospital at Fort Worth L.P., USMD Inc., USMD PPM LLC, Unidad Medica Diagnostico S.A., Unimerica Insurance Company, Unimerica Life Insurance Company of New York, Unison Health Plan of Delaware Inc., United Behavioral Health, United Behavioral Health of New York I.P.A. Inc., United Group Reinsurance Inc., United Health Foundation, United HealthCare Services Inc., United Medical Park ASC LLC, United Resource Networks IPA of New York Inc., United in Advancing Health Equity Foundation, UnitedHealth Advisors LLC, UnitedHealth Group Employee Assistance Fund, UnitedHealth Group Incorporated, UnitedHealth Group International Finance Ireland Unlimited Company, UnitedHealth International Inc., UnitedHealth Military & Veterans Services LLC, UnitedHealthcare Benefits Plan of California, UnitedHealthcare Benefits of Texas Inc., UnitedHealthcare Children's Foundation Inc., UnitedHealthcare Community Plan Inc., UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of California Inc., UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Georgia Inc., UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Ohio Inc., UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Texas L.L.C., UnitedHealthcare Consulting & Assistance Service Beijing Co. Ltd., UnitedHealthcare Europe S.a r.l., UnitedHealthcare Global Medical UK Limited, UnitedHealthcare Inc., UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company, UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company of America, UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company of Illinois, UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company of New York, UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company of the River Valley, UnitedHealthcare Insurance Designated Activity Company, UnitedHealthcare Integrated Services Inc., UnitedHealthcare International Asia LLC, UnitedHealthcare International I B.V., UnitedHealthcare International II S.a r.l., UnitedHealthcare International III B.V., UnitedHealthcare International III S.a r.l., UnitedHealthcare International IV S.a r.l., UnitedHealthcare International VII S.a r.l., UnitedHealthcare International VIII S.a r.l., UnitedHealthcare International X S.a r.l., UnitedHealthcare Life Insurance Company, UnitedHealthcare Parekh Insurance TPA Private Limited, UnitedHealthcare Plan of the River Valley Inc., UnitedHealthcare Service LLC, UnitedHealthcare Specialty Benefits LLC, UnitedHealthcare of Alabama Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Arizona Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Arkansas Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Colorado Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Florida Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Georgia Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Illinois Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Kentucky Ltd., UnitedHealthcare of Louisiana Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Mississippi Inc., UnitedHealthcare of New England Inc., UnitedHealthcare of New Mexico Inc., UnitedHealthcare of New York Inc., UnitedHealthcare of North Carolina Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Ohio Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Oklahoma Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Oregon Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Pennsylvania Inc., UnitedHealthcare of South Carolina Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Texas Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Utah Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Washington Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Wisconsin Inc., UnitedHealthcare of the Mid-Atlantic Inc., UnitedHealthcare of the Midlands Inc., UnitedHealthcare of the Midwest Inc., UnitedHealthcare of the Rockies Inc., Unity Health Network LLC, Upland Holdings LLC, Upland Outpatient Surgical Center L.P., Urgent Care Holdings Inc., Urgent Care MSO LLC, Urology Associates of North Texas P.L.L.C., VERTA MANAGEMENT SERVICES LLC, VPay Benefits Corporation, VPay Inc., VPay Intermediate Holdings LLC, Valley Hospital L.L.C., Valley Physicians Network Inc., Vascular Labs of the Rockies ASC LLC, Vascular Labs of the Rockies PLLC, Via Vitae MSO LLC, Vida Integra S.p.A., Vida Tres S.A., Virtua-SCA Holdings II LLC, Virtua-SCA Holdings LLC, Vivify Health Canada Inc., Vivify Health Inc., WESTMED Practice Partners LLC, Wake Forest Ambulatory Ventures LLC, Walnut Creek Endoscopy Center LLC, Walnut Hill Surgery Center LLC, Wauwatosa Outpatient Surgery Center LLC, Wauwatosa Surgery Center LLC, Wayland Square Surgicare Acquisition L.P., Wayland Square Surgicare GP Inc., Waypoint Minnesota PC, WellMed Medical Management Inc., WellMed Medical Management of Florida Inc., West Coast Endoscopy Holdings LLC, WestHealth JV Holdings LLC, WestHealth Surgery Center LLC, Western Connecticut Orthopedic Surgical Center LLC, Westgreen Surgical Center LLC, Wilson Creek Surgical Center LLC, Winchester Endoscopy LLC, Winter Park LLC, Winter Park Surgery Center L.P., Woodbury Surgery Center LLC, XAS Infusion Suites Inc., XLHealth Corporation, XLHealth Corporation India Private Limited, divvyDOSE, divvyMED LLC, eCode Solutions LLC, gethealthinsurance.com Agency Inc., hCentive Inc., inPharmative Inc., naviHealth Care at Home LLC, naviHealth Coordinated Care LLC, naviHealth Coordinated Care SC P.C., naviHealth Holdings LLC, naviHealth Inc., naviHealth Michigan HBPC P.C., and naviHealth SM Holdings Inc.. Read More Suncor Energy Inc. operates as an integrated energy company in Canada and internationally. It operates through Oil Sands; Exploration and Production; and Refining and Marketing segments. The Oil Sands segment explores, develops, and produces bitumen, synthetic crude oil, and related products. This segment also engages in syncrude oil sands mining and upgrading operations; and marketing, supply, transportation, and risk management of crude oil, natural gas, power, and byproducts. The Exploration and Production segment is involved in offshore operations in the East Coast of Canada. The Refining and Marketing segment refines crude oil and petrochemical products; and markets, transports, and manages refined and petrochemical products, and other purchased products through the retail and wholesale networks. This segment also involved in trading of crude oil, natural gas, and power. The company was formerly known as Suncor Inc. and changed its name to Suncor Energy Inc. in April 1997. Suncor Energy Inc. was founded in 1917 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada. US Foods Holding Corp., through its subsidiary, engages in marketing, sale, and distribution of fresh, frozen, and dry food and non-food products to foodservice customers in the United States. The company's customers include independently owned single and multi-unit restaurants, regional concepts, national restaurant chains, hospitals, nursing homes, hotels and motels, country clubs, government and military organizations, colleges and universities, and retail locations. As of December 31, 2022, it operated 70 distribution facilities, 86 cash and carry locations, and 14 broadline support business production facilities. The company was formerly known as USF Holding Corp. and changed its name to US Foods Holding Corp. in February 2016. US Foods Holding Corp. was incorporated in 2007 and is headquartered in Rosemont, Illinois. Canadian National Railway Company, together with its subsidiaries, engages in rail and related transportation business. The company offers rail services, which include equipment, custom brokage services, transloading and distribution, business development and real estate, and private car storage services; and intermodal services including temperature controlled cargo, port partnership, transloading and distribution, logistic parks, customs brokerage, trucking, and moving grains in containers. It also provides trucking services, such as door-to-door services, import and export dray, interline services, and specialized services comprising flatbed trucks, on-deck mobile transport trays, expedited and temperature controlled cargo, and permit/overweight services; and supply chain services. In addition, it serves automotive, coal, fertilizers, temperature controlled cargo, forest products, dimensional, grain, metal and minerals, petroleum and chemicals, and consumer goods applications. Further, the company operates a network of 20,000 route miles of track and shipping Canada and the United States. Canadian National Railway Company was incorporated in 1919 and is headquartered in Montreal, Canada. iShares National AMT-Free Muni Bond ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares S&P National AMT-Free Municipal Bond Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the S&P National AMT-Free Municipal Bond Index (the Index). The Index measures the performance of the investment-grade segment of the United States municipal bond market. The Fund invests in a representative sample of the securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. Due to the use of representative sampling, the Fund may or may not hold all of the securities that are included in the Index. The Funds investment advisor is BlackRock Fund Advisors (formerly known as Barclays Global Fund Advisors). 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. Rio Tinto Group is a multinational mining operation and the 2nd largest miner worldwide. The company has a dual listing with shares trading on both the London Stock Exchange and the Australian ASX. Rio Tinto is named for a mining area in Spain. The mines at Rio Tinto have been in operation off and on since 3,000 BC and produce copper, silver, and gold among other minerals. The mines were rediscovered most recently in 1556 and then fell into the hands of the Spanish government in 1724. The Spanish government was a poor steward of the operations and eventually put it up for auction. In 1873 a group of businessmen bought the property for a steal that included Spains relinquishing its rights to any future profits. The consortium quickly commenced operations as Rio Tinto Mining and focused on developing its resources. Within 10 years it was a leading producer of copper and then it fell into the hands of the Rothschilds. The Rothschilds expanded the operations but failed to diversify the company in a meaningful way. The company reached a peak in the early 1900s that was dashed by WWI and the loss of the US as an end market but the story is not over. A new management team took control of the business in 1925 and began to diversify the company. Their efforts opened up new territories in other countries including Africa and Australia which was instrumental to long-term success. An increasingly fascist government made it difficult to operate in Spain and led the company to divest itself of its original asset, the Rio Tinto Mine. That could not have been done without operations in other countries. Another series of mergers and acquisitions will grow the company to global status. Today, Rio Tinto is a diversified and integrated mining operation that engages in the exploration, development and production of mineral-based resources. The company operates in 4 key segments that include Iron Ore, Aluminum, Copper & Diamonds and Energy & Minerals. The company operates mines, smelters and refiners in about 35 countries producing iron ore and iron, bauxite and alumina, industrial diamonds, gold, borates, titanium dioxide and lithium among many other minerals and products. The bulk of operations are in Australia and Canada which are both rich in natural resources. The companys products are used by all end markets and are essential for the transition to green energy. Not only is the iron and copper required to build the infrastructure but lithium and other minerals are key for electrification. Rio Tinto products are necessary for agriculture and include several key fertilizers including borates. 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. VLADIVOSTOK, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The United States imported a record amount of Russian fertilizers worth 944 million U.S. dollars from January to July, local media reported on Sunday. The export value of Russian fertilizers to the United States rose by 5 percent in the first seven months from the same period of last year, which stood at 900 million dollars, the previous peak, according to Russia's news agency RIA Novosti. Yet in July, U.S. purchases fell threefold compared to June, the lowest since August 2021. Russia was the second largest supplier of fertilizers to the United States in the first seven months of this year, only after Canada. The earliest precursor to U.S. Bancorp was founded in 1863 and is now headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The company owns the 24th national charter, issued in 1863, and is the second oldest original charter holder still in existence. Today, the bank is the 5th largest financial institution in the U.S. and is considered to be systemically important by the FSB. The companys revenue in 2021 topped $22.7 billion, it listed more than $573 million in total assets and employed more than 68,700 people. U.S. Bancorp Is now operating as a financial services holding company. The company provides various financial and banking-related services to individuals, businesses, institutions, and governments under the U.S. Bank, Elavon, and Elan Financial Services banners. Elavon is a payment processor for merchants while Elan Financial Services is a credit card issuer that works in conjunction with small banks and credit unions across the U.S. The U.S. Bank's name got its start in 1891 as the United States National Bank of Portland. That bank was merged with several others over the years before the one resulting in US Bancorp of Oregon. That bank lasted until the late 1990s when it was merged with the First Bank System of Minnesota. That merger created the now-recognizable U.S. Bancorp but the mergers do not end there. A final takeover by Firstar, another bank with a long history of mergers, resulted in the bank being traded on the New York Stock Exchange today. U.S. Bank operates in 5 segments that include Corporate and Commercial Banking, Consumer and Business Banking, Wealth Management and Investment Services, Payment Services and Treasury and Corporate Support segments. The companys long-term debt all carries AA or A+ ratings and are considered investment quality. U.S. Bancorps financial services include deposits, checking, savings accounts, and CDs as well as a range of lending and investment services. Lending services include consumer and business loans, lines of credit and credit cards as well as personal loans, and others. Investment and insurance services include asset management, fund administration, IRA, and access to markets. Services are available through a network of 2,213 branch offices throughout the western and midwestern U.S. Accounts are also accessible through 4,052 ATMs, mobile, online, and telephone. U.S. Bancorp has operations in 26 states. Invesco Ltd. is a publicly owned investment manager. The firm provides its services to retail clients, institutional clients, high-net worth clients, public entities, corporations, unions, non-profit organizations, endowments, foundations, pension funds, financial institutions, and sovereign wealth funds. It manages separate client-focused equity and fixed income portfolios. The firm also launches equity, fixed income, commodity, multi-asset, and balanced mutual funds for its clients. It launches equity, fixed income, multi-asset, and balanced exchange-traded funds. The firm also launches and manages private funds. It invests in the public equity and fixed income markets across the globe. The firm also invests in alternative markets, such as commodities and currencies. For the equity portion of its portfolio, it invests in growth and value stocks of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap companies. For the fixed income portion of its portfolio, the firm invests in convertibles, government bonds, municipal bonds, treasury securities, and cash. It also invests in short term and intermediate term bonds, investment grade and high yield bonds, taxable and tax-free bonds, senior secured loans, and structured securities such as asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, and commercial mortgage-backed securities. The firm employs absolute return, global macro, and long/short strategies. It employs quantitative analysis to make its investments. The firm was formerly known as Invesco Plc, AMVESCAP plc, Amvesco plc, Invesco PLC, Invesco MIM, and H. Lotery & Co. Ltd. Invesco Ltd. was founded in 1935 and is based in Atlanta, Georgia with an additional office in Hamilton, Bermuda. General Motors Company, a multinational corporation, has been a leading player in the global automotive industry for over a century. Founded in 1908 by William C. Durant, GM has become one of the world's largest automakers, with a worldwide presence across North America, South America and international markets. General Motors is the largest automaker in the United States, with a market share of around 17%. It produces a range of vehicles, including cars, trucks and SUVs, under various brands, such as Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac and GMC. One of GM's key growth areas is its electric vehicle (EV) business, which is gaining momentum worldwide. The company has plans to launch 30 new electric models globally by 2025 and has committed to investing $35 billion in EV and autonomous vehicle technology over the next five years. With a growing focus on sustainability, the company has set ambitious goals to become carbon neutral by 2040 and to achieve 100% renewable energy usage in its U.S. operations by 2030. General Motors has also recently improved its environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance. In addition to its commitments to sustainability, the company has also committed to investing in diverse suppliers and increasing the diversity of its workforce. In 2021, the company was named to the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) North America for the third consecutive year, reflecting its strong ESG performance. Despite its strong market position and ESG performance, General Motors faces risks associated with the cyclical nature of the automotive industry. The industry is subject to fluctuating economic demand, such as in the recent COVID-19 pandemic. The company also faces ongoing legal challenges related to multiple recalls revolving around several vehicle platforms. GM has demonstrated resilience and the ability to adapt to changing market conditions. During the pandemic, GM ramped production of its popular trucks and SUVs, which helped drive strong financial results for the third quarter of 2022. After the pandemic, the company reported record sales growth due in part to increased demand for its vehicles and a rebound in production and sales. Overall, General Motors is a well-established player in the global automotive industry with a strong market position in North America and a growing electric vehicle business. The company's commitment to improving its ESG performance and sustainability practices is notable and reflects its focus on long-term growth and responsible business practices. While investors should be aware of the risks associated with the industry's cyclical nature, General Motors' track record of innovation and resilience makes it a key player to watch in the years ahead. Valero Energy Corporation is a Fortune 500 company that operates as an independent petroleum refining and marketing company based in San Antonio, Texas. The company was founded in 1980 and has since grown into one of the largest oil refiners in the United States. Valero Energy Corporation operates 15 refineries with a combined refining capacity of approximately 3.2 million barrels daily, making it the largest independent refiner in North America. Additionally, the company has an extensive network of over 7,000 retail and wholesale branded outlets across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Ireland. The leadership team at Valero Energy Corporation is led by Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Joseph W. Gorder, who has been with the company since 1981. Gorder has served in several leadership positions at Valero Energy Corporation, including President and Chief Operating Officer, before being appointed to his current role in 2014. The company's Chief Financial Officer is Jason Fraser, who has been with Valero since 1999. Before being appointed CFO, Mr. Fraser served as General Counsel and Senior Vice President, providing oversight of public policy, planning, government affairs, and investor relations. Over the past few years, Valero Energy Corporation has consistently reported strong financial results. The company struggled in 2020 due to investors' concerns regarding the pandemic. However, the company still reported a net income of $1.1 billion for the year, down from $2.4 billion in 2019. Since then, the company has rebounded and reached all-time highs in its stock price. The company's profit margins have also remained strong, with gross profit margins of around 11% and an operating profit margin of about 5%. Valero Energy Corporation has managed its debt levels well, with a total debt-to-equity ratio average of 0.36. The company's ownership structure has remained relatively stable, with no significant changes in ownership in recent years. Valero Energy Corporation's valuation metrics include a price-to-earnings ratio and a price-to-book ratio that aligns with industry peers. The company's market capitalization is approximately $50 billion, making it one of the largest independent refiners in North America. Valero Energy Corporation operates in a highly competitive industry, with significant competition from other independent refiners, integrated oil companies, and biofuel producers. The petroleum refining industry is subject to extensive regulatory oversight, and changes in regulations and political developments can significantly impact the industry's profitability. Additionally, the industry is subject to significant price volatility due to fluctuations in global oil prices. Despite the industry's challenges, Valero Energy Corporation has several growth opportunities. The company has invested in renewable fuels and advanced technologies to improve its environmental performance, including developing renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel. Additionally, the company has announced plans to acquire several new renewable diesel plants, increasing its capacity to produce low-carbon fuels. Valero Energy Corporation is also expanding its retail and wholesale network, with plans to add new locations in strategic markets in the United States and Canada. However, the company also faces several risks and challenges. Changes in consumer preferences towards electric vehicles and renewable energy could reduce demand for petroleum products, significantly impacting Valero Energy Corporation's revenue and profitability. Additionally, the company's business is subject to significant regulatory and environmental risks and geopolitical risks, such as the impact of international trade policies and sanctions. Valero Energy Corporation has focused on improving its operational efficiency, reducing costs, and investing in new technologies to improve its environmental performance to mitigate these risks. The company has also maintained a strong balance sheet, focusing on managing its debt levels and maintaining a healthy cash position. 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. The iShares MSCI USA Small-Cap Multifactor ETF (SMLF) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the STOXX U.S. SmallCap Equity Factor index. The fund tracks an index of small-cap US equities. Stocks are selected and weighted to increase exposure to four factors (quality, value, momentum, and low volatility). SMLF was launched on Apr 28, 2015 and is managed by BlackRock. The following companies are subsidiares of Republic Services: 3G&L, 623 Landfill Inc., 8 M Properties LLC, A D A J Corporation, A-Best Disposal Inc., ACV Enviro, ACV Enviro 1045 RE LLC, ACV Enviro CC Holding Corporation, ACV Enviro Corporation, ACV Enviro Holding Corporation, ACV Enviro MA RE LLC, ACV Enviro MD RE LLC, ACV Enviro MI Corporation, ACV Environmental Services Inc., ADS Inc., ADS of Illinois Inc., AES DE RS I LLC, AES DE RS II LLC, AES DE RS III LLC, AES DE RS IV LLC, AES DE RS V LLC, AES DE RS XIV LLC, AES DE RS XV LLC, AES Greece Solar LLC, AES Holland Solar LLC, AES Lawa'i Solar LLC, AES Monroe Solar A LLC, AES Monroe Solar B LLC, AES Monroe Solar C LLC, AES Monroe Solar D LLC, AES Monroe Solar E LLC, AES Orphan Farm Solar LLC, AES Rochester Solar LLC, AES Wawarsing Solar LLC, AWIN Leasing Company Inc., AWIN Leasing II LLC, AWIN Management Inc., Abilene Landfill TX LP, Ace Disposal Services Inc., Action Disposal Inc., Adrian Landfill Inc., Agri-Tech Inc. of Oregon, Agricultural Acquisitions LLC, Agromin OC LLC, Alabama Recycling Services Inc., Albany-Lebanon Sanitation Inc., Allied Gas Recovery Systems L.L.C., Allied Green Power LLC, Allied Nova Scotia Inc., Allied Remediation Services Inc., Allied Research Affiliates LLC, Allied Services LLC, Allied Waste Environmental Management Group LLC, Allied Waste Holdings (Canada) Ltd., Allied Waste Industries (Arizona) Inc., Allied Waste Industries Inc, Allied Waste Industries LLC, Allied Waste Industries of Illinois Inc., Allied Waste Industries of Northwest Indiana Inc., Allied Waste Industries of Tennessee Inc., Allied Waste Landfill Holdings Inc., Allied Waste Niagara Falls Landfill LLC, Allied Waste North America LLC, Allied Waste Recycling Services of New Hampshire LLC, Allied Waste Rural Sanitation Inc., Allied Waste Services of Colorado Inc., Allied Waste Services of Fort Worth LLC, Allied Waste Services of Massachusetts LLC, Allied Waste Services of North America LLC, Allied Waste Services of Page Inc., Allied Waste Services of Stillwater Inc., Allied Waste Sycamore Landfill LLC, Allied Waste Systems Holdings Inc., Allied Waste Systems Inc., Allied Waste Systems of Arizona LLC, Allied Waste Systems of Colorado LLC, Allied Waste Systems of Michigan LLC, Allied Waste Systems of Montana LLC, Allied Waste Systems of New Jersey LLC, Allied Waste Systems of Pennsylvania LLC, Allied Waste Transfer Services of Arizona LLC, Allied Waste Transfer Services of California LLC, Allied Waste Transfer Services of Florida LLC, Allied Waste Transfer Services of New York LLC, Allied Waste Transfer Services of North Carolina LLC, Allied Waste Transfer Services of Oregon LLC, Allied Waste Transfer Services of Rhode Island LLC, Allied Waste Transfer Services of Utah Inc., Allied Waste Transportation Inc., Allied Waste of California Inc., Allied Waste of New Jersey Inc., Allied Waste of New Jersey-New York LLC, American Disposal Services Inc., American Disposal Services of Illinois Inc., American Disposal Services of Kansas Inc., American Disposal Services of Missouri Inc., American Disposal Services of New Jersey Inc., American Disposal Services of West Virginia Inc., American Disposal Transfer Services of Illinois Inc., American Materials Recycling Corp., American Sanitation Inc., American Transfer Company Inc., Anderson Solid Waste Inc., Anson County Landfill NC LLC, Apache Junction Landfill Corporation, Arbor Hills Holdings L.L.C., Area Disposal Inc., Ariana LLC, Aries Venture Investments Company, Astro Waste Services Inc., Atlantic Waste Holding Company Inc., Atlas Transport Inc., Attwoods of North America Inc., Autauga County Landfill LLC, Automated Modular Systems Inc., Autoshred Inc., BBCO Inc., BFGSI L.L.C., BFGSI Series 1997-A Trust, BFI, BFI Atlantic Inc., BFI Energy Systems of Albany Inc., BFI Energy Systems of Delaware County Inc., BFI Energy Systems of Essex County Inc., BFI Energy Systems of Hempstead Inc., BFI Energy Systems of Niagara II Inc., BFI Energy Systems of Niagara Inc., BFI Energy Systems of SEMASS Inc., BFI Energy Systems of Southeastern Connecticut Inc., BFI Energy Systems of Southeastern Connecticut Limited Partnership, BFI REF-FUEL INC., BFI Trans River (GP) Inc., BFI Trans River (LP) Inc., BFI Transfer Systems of Alabama LLC, BFI Transfer Systems of Georgia LLC, BFI Transfer Systems of Massachusetts LLC, BFI Transfer Systems of Mississippi LLC, BFI Transfer Systems of New Jersey Inc., BFI Transfer Systems of Pennsylvania LLC, BFI Transfer Systems of Texas LP, BFI Transfer Systems of Virginia LLC, BFI Waste Services LLC, BFI Waste Services of Indiana LP, BFI Waste Services of Pennsylvania LLC, BFI Waste Services of Texas LP, BFI Waste Systems of Alabama LLC, BFI Waste Systems of Arkansas LLC, BFI Waste Systems of Georgia LLC, BFI Waste Systems of Louisiana LLC, BFI Waste Systems of Massachusetts LLC, BFI Waste Systems of Mississippi LLC, BFI Waste Systems of Missouri LLC, BFI Waste Systems of New Jersey Inc., BFI Waste Systems of North America LLC, BFI Waste Systems of Oklahoma LLC, BFI Waste Systems of Tennessee LLC, BFI Waste Systems of Virginia LLC, BWC Lake Lashaway LLC, BWC Muddy Brook LLC, Bakersfield Industrial PV 1 LLC, Bakersfield PV 1 LLC, Barker Brothers Inc., Barker Brothers Waste Incorporated, Bay Collection Services Inc., Bay Environmental Management Inc., Bay Landfills Inc., Bay Leasing Company Inc., Bayside Disposal Inc., Bealine Service Company Inc., Belleville Landfill Inc., Benson Valley Landfill General Partnership, Berkeley Sanitary Service Inc., Berrien County Landfill Inc., Bio-Med of Oregon Inc., Blackhorse Farm Solar LLC, Bloomington Haulers LLC, Blue Mountain Recycling LLC, Blue Ridge Landfill TX LP, Boenker Hill LLC, Bom Ambiente Insurance Company, Bond County Landfill Inc., Borrego Landfill Inc., Borrow Pit Corp., Brenham Total Roll-Offs LP, Brickyard Disposal & Recycling Inc., Bridgeton Landfill LLC, Bridgeton Transfer Station LLC, Browning-Ferris Inc., Browning-Ferris Industries Chemical Services Inc., Browning-Ferris Industries Inc., Browning-Ferris Industries LLC, Browning-Ferris Industries de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Browning-Ferris Industries of California Inc., Browning-Ferris Industries of Florida Inc., Browning-Ferris Industries of Illinois Inc., Browning-Ferris Industries of New Jersey Inc., Browning-Ferris Industries of New York Inc., Browning-Ferris Industries of Ohio Inc., Browning-Ferris Industries of Tennessee Inc., Browning-Ferris Services Inc., Brunswick Waste Management Facility LLC, Bunting Trash Service Inc., Butler County Landfill LLC, C & C Expanded Sanitary Landfill LLC, CC Landfill Inc., CECOS International Inc., CWI of Florida Inc., CWI of Illinois Inc., CWI of Missouri Inc., Cactus Waste Systems LLC, Calvert Trash Service Incorporated, Calvert Trash Systems Incorporated, Camelot Landfill TX LP, Capital Waste & Recycling Inc., Capitol Recycling and Disposal Inc., Carbon Limestone Landfill LLC, Cefe Landfill TX LP, Celina Landfill Inc., Central Arizona Transfer Inc., Central Sanitary Landfill Inc., Central Virginia Properties LLC, Champlin Refuse Inc., Charter Evaporation Resource Recovery Systems, Cherokee Run Landfill Inc., Chilton Landfill LLC, Citizens Disposal Inc., City Carton Company, City-Star Services Inc., Clarkston Disposal Inc., Clean Venture Inc., Clinton County Landfill Partnership, Cocopah Landfill Inc., Compactor Rental Systems of Delaware Inc., Congress Development Co., Consolidated Disposal Service L.L.C., Consolidated Processing Inc., Continental Waste Industries - Gary Inc., Continental Waste Industries L.L.C., Copper Mountain Landfill Inc., Corvallis Disposal Co., County Disposal (Ohio) Inc., County Disposal Inc., County Environmental Landfill LLC, County Land Development Landfill LLC, County Landfill Inc., County Line Landfill Partnership, Courtney Ridge Landfill LLC, Covington Waste Inc., Crockett Sanitary Service Inc., Crow Landfill TX L.P., Cumberland County Development Company LLC, Cycle Chem Inc., D & L Disposal L.L.C., DTC Management Inc., Delano PV 1 LLC, Delta Container Corporation, Delta Dade Recycling Corp., Delta Paper Stock Co., Delta Resources Corp., Delta Site Development Corp., Delta Waste Corp., Dempsey Waste Systems II Inc., Denver RL North Inc., Desarrollo del Rancho La Gloria TX LP, Devens Recycling Center LLC, Dinverno Inc., E & P Investment Corporation, ECDC Environmental L.C., ECDC Holdings Inc., ECOFLO Field Services LLC, ECOFLO Holding LLC, ECOFLO Inc., ECOFLO Logistics LLC, ECOFLO Recycling LLC, ECOFLO Southeast Inc., Eagle Industries Leasing Inc., East Brookfield Main Street Solar LLC, East Chicago Compost Facility Inc., El Centro Landfill L.P., Elder Creek Transfer & Recovery Inc., Ellis County Landfill TX LP, Ellis Scott Landfill MO LLC, Envirocycle Inc., Environmental Development Corp., Environmental Reclamation Company, Environtech Inc., Envirotech Consultants LLC, Envirowaste LLC, Envotech-Illinois L.L.C., Evergreen National Indemnity Company, Evergreen Scavenger Service Inc., Evergreen Scavenger Service L.L.C., F. P. McNamara Rubbish Removal Inc., FCR Camden LLC, FCR Florida LLC, FCR Greensboro LLC, FCR LLC, FCR Morris LLC, FCR Tennessee LLC, FLL Inc., Fiorito Enterprises Inc., Flint Hill Road LLC, Foothill Sanitary Landfill Inc., Forest View Landfill LLC, Fort Worth Landfill TX LP, Forward Inc., Frankfort Environmental Development Company Inc., Frontier Waste Services (Colorado) LLC, Frontier Waste Services (Utah) LLC, Frontier Waste Services L.P., Frontier Waste Services of Louisiana L.L.C., G. Van Dyken Disposal Inc., GEK Inc., GGH North Dakota LLC, GGWM LLC, Galveston County Landfill TX LP, Gateway Landfill LLC, General Refuse Rolloff Corp., General Refuse Service of Ohio L.L.C., Georgia Recycling Services Inc., Global Indemnity Assurance Company, Golden Bear Transfer Services Inc., Golden Triangle Landfill TX LP, Golden Waste Disposal Inc., Grants Pass Sanitation Inc., Great Lakes Disposal Service Inc., Great Plains Landfill OK LLC, Green Valley Landfill General Partnership, Greenridge Reclamation LLC, Greenridge Waste Services LLC, Greenwood Landfill TX LP, Gulf West Landfill TX LP, Gulfcoast Waste Service Inc., H B Data Security LLC, HMD Waste L.L.C., Hancock County Development Company LLC, Harland's Sanitary Landfill Inc., Harrison County Landfill LLC, Honeygo Run Reclamation Center Inc., Hudson Baylor 27th Avenue LLC, Hudson Baylor Atlantic County LLC, Hudson Baylor Beacon LLC, Hudson Baylor Cape May LLC, Hudson Baylor North Gateway LLC, Hudson Baylor Tucson LLC, Hyder Waste Container Inc., Illiana Disposal Partnership, Illinois Landfill Inc., Illinois Recycling Services Inc., Illinois Valley Recycling Inc., Imperial Landfill Inc., Independent Trucking Company, Ingrum Waste Disposal Inc., International Disposal Corp. of California, Island Waste Services Ltd., Itasca Landfill TX LP, JSI Houston Transfer Station Inc., Jefferson City Landfill LLC, Jetter Disposal Inc., K & K Trash Removal Inc., Kankakee Quarry Inc., Keller Canyon Landfill Company, Keller Drop Box Inc., Kent-Meridian Disposal Company, Kerrville Landfill TX LP, Key Waste Indiana Partnership, LGS Renewables I L.C., La Canada Disposal Company Inc., Lake County C & D Development Partnership, Lake Norman Landfill Inc., LandComp Corporation, Lathrop Sunrise Sanitation Corporation, Lee County Landfill Inc., Lee County Landfill SC LLC, Lemons Landfill LLC, Lewistown Disposal Inc., Lewisville Landfill TX LP, Liberty Waste Holdings Inc., Liberty Waste Services Limited L.L.C., Liberty Waste Services of Illinois L.L.C., Liberty Waste Services of McCook L.L.C., Local Sanitation of Rowan County L.L.C., Loop Recycling Inc., Loop Transfer Incorporated, Lorain Carbon Zero Solutions LLC, Lorain County Landfill LLC, Louis Pinto & Son Inc. Sanitation Contractors, Lucas County Landfill LLC, M-G Disposal Services L.L.C., Madison County Development LLC, Manteca PV 1 LLC, Manumit of Florida Inc., Marion Investment Group LLC, Marion Recycling Center Inc., Marion Resource Recovery Facility LLC, McCarty Road Landfill TX LP, McCusker Recycling Inc., McInnis Waste Systems Inc., Meadow Landfill LLC, Menands Environmental Solutions LLC, Mesa Disposal Inc., Mesquite Landfill TX LP, Mexia Landfill TX LP, Mid America Contractors L.L.C., Mississippi Waste Paper Company, Missouri City Landfill LLC, Modern Power LLC, Modern-Mallard Energy LLC, Montana Waste Systems Inc., Mountain Home Disposal Inc., N Leasing Company LLC, NMRT LLC, NationsWaste Catawba Regional Landfill Inc., NationsWaste Inc., New Mexico Disposal Co. LLC, New Morgan Landfill Company Inc., New York Waste Services LLC, Newton County Landfill Partnership, Nichols Street Properties LLC, Noble Road Landfill Inc., Northeast Landfill LLC, Northlake Transfer Inc., Northwest Tennessee Disposal Corporation, Oahu SPE 101-19 LLC, Oahu SPE 101-2 LLC, Oahu SPE 101-4 LLC, Oahu SPE 101-9 LLC, Oakland Heights Development Inc., Obscurity Land Development LLC, Oceanside Waste & Recycling Services, Ohio Republic Contracts II Inc., Ohio Republic Contracts Inc., Oklahoma City Landfill L.L.C., Organix Solutions LLC, Oscar's Collection System of Fremont Inc., Otay Landfill Inc., Ottawa County Landfill Inc., Packerton Land Company L.L.C., Palomar Transfer Station Inc., Peltier Real Estate Company, Peninsula Waste Systems LLC, Perdomo & Sons Inc., Pinal County Landfill Corp., Pine Bend Holdings L.L.C., Pine Hill Farms Landfill TX LP, Pinecrest Landfill OK LLC, Pittsburg County Landfill Inc., Pleasant Oaks Landfill TX LP, Port Clinton Landfill Inc., Portable Storage Co., Preble County Landfill Inc., Price & Sons Recycling Company, Prichard Landfill Corporation, Prince George's County Landfill LLC, R.C. Miller Enterprises Inc., R.C. Miller Refuse Service Inc., RCS Inc., RE Community Holdings II Inc, RE Community Holdings II Inc., RI/Alameda Corp., RITM LLC, RSG Cayman Group Inc., RWS Texas Leasing Company LLC, RWS Transport L.P., Rabanco Companies, Rabanco Ltd., Rabanco Recycling Inc., Rainbow Disposal Co. Inc., Rainbow Disposal Co.Inc, Rainbow Environmental Services LLC, Rainbow Transfer/Recycling Inc., Rainbow West Florida LLC, Ramona Landfill Inc., Randy's Rentals LLC, Randy's Sanitation LLC, Re Community Delaware LLC, Re Community Great Lakes LLC, Re Community Renew New York LLC, ReCommunity Corporation, ReCommunity Farmingdale LLC, ReCommunity Kentucky LLC, ReCommunity West Corporation, Red Diamond Disposal Inc., Regional Disposal Company, Reliable Disposal Inc., Republic Dumpco Inc., Republic EES LLC, Republic Environmental Services LLC, Republic Environmental Technologies Inc., Republic Industrial and Energy Solutions LLC, Republic Ohio Contracts LLC, Republic Recycling Services of Nevada Inc., Republic Services Alliance Group II Inc., Republic Services Alliance Group III Inc., Republic Services Alliance Group IV Inc., Republic Services Alliance Group Inc., Republic Services Aviation Inc., Republic Services Blue Ridge Energy Development LLC, Republic Services Customer Resource Center Central LLC, Republic Services Customer Resource Center East LLC, Republic Services Customer Resource Center West LLC, Republic Services Digital Ventures I LLC, Republic Services Environmental LLC, Republic Services Environmental Solutions II LLC, Republic Services Environmental Solutions III LLC, Republic Services Group LLC, Republic Services Holding Company LLC, Republic Services Leasing Company LLC, Republic Services National Accounts LLC, Republic Services Organic Holding Inc., Republic Services Organic Solutions LLC, Republic Services Procurement Inc., Republic Services Real Estate Holding Inc., Republic Services Recycling of Indiana Inc., Republic Services Renewable Energy II LLC, Republic Services Renewable Energy III LLC, Republic Services Renewable Energy LLC, Republic Services Risk Management Inc., Republic Services Vasco Road LLC, Republic Services of Arizona Hauling LLC, Republic Services of British Columbia Inc., Republic Services of Buffalo LLC, Republic Services of California Holding Company Inc., Republic Services of California II LLC, Republic Services of Canada Inc., Republic Services of Colorado Hauling LLC, Republic Services of Colorado I LLC, Republic Services of Florida GP Inc., Republic Services of Florida LP Inc., Republic Services of Florida Limited Partnership, Republic Services of Georgia GP LLC, Republic Services of Georgia LP LLC, Republic Services of Georgia Limited Partnership, Republic Services of Indiana LP Inc., Republic Services of Indiana Limited Partnership, Republic Services of Indiana Transportation LLC, Republic Services of Iowa LLC, Republic Services of Kentucky LLC, Republic Services of Maryland LLC, Republic Services of Massachusetts LLC, Republic Services of Michigan Hauling LLC, Republic Services of Michigan Holding Company Inc., Republic Services of Michigan I LLC, Republic Services of Michigan II LLC, Republic Services of Michigan III LLC, Republic Services of Michigan IV LLC, Republic Services of New Jersey LLC, Republic Services of North Carolina LLC, Republic Services of Ohio Hauling LLC, Republic Services of Ohio I LLC, Republic Services of Ohio II LLC, Republic Services of Ohio III LLC, Republic Services of Ohio IV LLC, Republic Services of Ohio Transportation LLC, Republic Services of Oxnard Inc., Republic Services of PA - Environmental Solutions LLC, Republic Services of Pennsylvania LLC, Republic Services of Smith County LLC, Republic Services of Sonoma County Energy Producers Inc., Republic Services of Sonoma County Inc., Republic Services of South Carolina LLC, Republic Services of Southern California LLC, Republic Services of Tennessee LLC, Republic Services of Virginia LLC, Republic Services of Wisconsin GP LLC, Republic Services of Wisconsin LP LLC, Republic Services of Wisconsin Limited Partnership, Republic Silver State Disposal Inc., Republic Transportation Services of Canada Inc., Republic Waste Limited Partnership, Republic Waste Services of Southern California LLC, Republic Waste Services of Texas GP Inc., Republic Waste Services of Texas LP Inc., Republic Waste Services of Texas Ltd., Resource Recovery Inc., Resource Recovery Systems LLC, Richmond Sanitary Service Inc., Rincon Solar I LLC, River Recycling LLC, Roosevelt Associates, Ross Bros. Waste & Recycling Co., Rossman Sanitary Service Inc., Roxana Landfill LLC, Royal Holdings Inc., Rubbish Control L.L.C., S & S Recycling Inc., Saguaro National Captive Insurance Company, Saline County Landfill Inc., San Diego Landfill Systems LLC, San Francisco Bay Railway LLC, San Marcos NCRRF Inc., Sand Valley Holdings L.L.C., Sandy Hollow Landfill Corp., Sangamon Valley Landfill Inc., Sanifill Inc., Sanitary Disposal Service Inc., Santek Environmental LLC, Santek Environmental of Alabama LLC, Santek Environmental of Arkansas LLC, Santek Environmental of Georgia LLC, Santek Environmental of Kentucky LLC, Santek Environmental of North Carolina LLC, Santek Environmental of Pine Belt LLC, Santek Environmental of Tennessee LLC, Santek Environmental of Texas LLC, Santek Environmental of Virginia LLC, Santek Waste Services LLC, Santek Waste Services LLC, Sauk Trail Development Inc., Schofield Corporation of Orlando, Show-Me Landfill LLC, Shred - All Recycling Systems Inc., Simmons & Eastern LLC, Solano Garbage Company, Source Recycling Inc., South Trans Inc., Southeast Landfill LLC, Southern Illinois Regional Landfill Inc., Southern Tank Leasing Inc., Southwest Landfill TX LP, Springfield Environmental General Partnership, St. Paul Haulers LLC, Standard Disposal Services Inc., Standard Environmental Services Inc., Standard Waste Inc., Streator Area Landfill Inc., Suburban Transfer Inc., Suburban Warehouse Inc., Summit Waste Systems Inc., Sunrise Sanitation Service Inc., Sunset Disposal Inc., Sunset Disposal Service Inc., Sycamore Landfill Inc., Tate's Transfer Systems Inc., Tay-Ban Corporation, Tayman Industries Inc., Tervita, The Ecology Group Inc., Thomas Disposal Service Inc., Tidal Tank Inc., Tippecanoe County Waste Services Partnership, Tom Luciano's Disposal Service Inc., Total Roll-Offs L.L.C., Total Solid Waste Recyclers Inc., Trash Butler LLC, Tri-County Refuse Service Inc., Tri-State Recycling Services Inc., Tri-State Refuse Corporation, Tricil (N.Y.) 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Read More Anheuser-Busch InBev is a multinational brewing company and one of the largest beer producers in the world. Headquartered in Leuven, Belgium, the company operates in over 50 countries and has a vast portfolio of well-known beer brands. Anheuser-Busch InBev's mission is to be the best beer company, bringing people together for a better world by brewing great-tasting, high-quality beers. With a rich history dating back to 1366, Anheuser-Busch InBev has established a strong presence in the global beer market. The company operates numerous breweries and has many products, including popular brands such as Budweiser, Stella Artois, Corona, Beck's, and Michelob Ultra. Anheuser-Busch InBev serves a diverse target market, catering to beer enthusiasts across different demographics and geographies. The company's key customers include distributors, retailers, and consumers worldwide. Its broad product portfolio allows it to meet various consumer preferences and market demands. Anheuser-Busch InBev's commitment to quality and innovation has garnered recognition and numerous awards over the years, solidifying its position as an industry leader. Anheuser-Busch InBev's management team consists of experienced leaders who bring diverse expertise to the company. The Chief Executive Officer of Anheuser-Busch InBev is Michel Doukeris, who assumed the role in 2021. He has a strong background in the consumer packaged goods industry, previously serving as the President of AB InBev's North America zone. Anheuser-Busch InBev has delivered strong results in recent years. However, the company has recently struggled with negative press and investor sentiment. The company maintains healthy profit margins, showcasing its ability to generate value for its shareholders. Anheuser-Busch InBev also pays a dividend which is excellent for investors looking for passive income. This demonstrates the company's commitment to returning value to its shareholders. Anheuser-Busch InBev's stock performance has experienced highs and lows over the past year. Anheuser-Busch InBev's valuation metrics, such as price-to-earnings or price-to-book ratio, should be analyzed in relation to other companies in the brewing industry. Anheuser-Busch InBev operates in the highly competitive brewing industry. Intense competition, evolving consumer preferences, and regulatory challenges characterize the industry. Despite these factors, Anheuser-Busch InBev has established itself as a dominant player with a solid competitive advantage. The company's global presence and diverse portfolio of brands give it a significant edge in the market. Anheuser-Busch InBev has successfully built a strong brand image and customer loyalty through effective marketing campaigns and sponsorships of major sporting events. These initiatives help the company stay top-of-mind for consumers and drive product demand. Anheuser-Busch InBev faces competition from global and local players in its operating markets. Major competitors include companies like Heineken, Molson Coors, and Constellation Brands. To maintain its competitive position, Anheuser-Busch InBev focuses on product innovation, expanding its brand portfolio, and leveraging its global distribution network. It is worth noting that the brewing industry is subject to regulatory and political factors that can impact operations. This includes regulations related to alcohol advertising, labeling, taxation, and changes in consumer preferences toward healthier alternatives. Anheuser-Busch InBev actively monitors and adapts to these regulatory and industry trends to mitigate potential risks. Anheuser-Busch InBev has several growth opportunities to capitalize on in the coming years. One significant avenue is the expansion into new markets. Emerging economies present the untapped potential for the company to introduce its brands to a growing middle class with increasing disposable income. Anheuser-Busch InBev can further expand its market share by tailoring its products to suit local preferences and investing in distribution networks. In addition to geographic expansion, Anheuser-Busch InBev can focus on product innovation to meet evolving consumer preferences. The growing demand for low-alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages presents an opportunity for the company to diversify its portfolio and capture a broader customer base. Anheuser-Busch InBev has already made strides in this area by launching products like Budweiser Zero and Michelob Ultra Pure Gold. While Anheuser-Busch InBev has demonstrated resilience and growth, it also faces various risks and challenges. Changes in consumer preferences and the shift towards healthier lifestyles pose a risk to the company's traditional beer offerings. Anheuser-Busch InBev must proactively address this by diversifying its product portfolio and investing in low-alcohol and non-alcoholic alternatives. Regulatory changes can also impact the company's operations and profitability. Stricter regulations on alcohol advertising and labeling, increased taxes, or limitations on distribution can hinder market growth and increase costs. Anheuser-Busch InBev must closely monitor and adapt to these regulatory changes to mitigate their impact. Competition remains a significant challenge. The brewing industry is highly competitive, with global and local players vying for market share. Anheuser-Busch InBev must continue to innovate, invest in marketing and strengthen its relationships with distributors to maintain its competitive edge. To manage these risks, Anheuser-Busch InBev has implemented robust risk management strategies. This includes closely monitoring consumer trends, diversifying its product portfolio, maintaining strong relationships with regulators and policymakers, and conducting thorough market research. By staying agile and adaptable, the company can navigate potential challenges and seize opportunities in the market. An AC311A helicopter performs during the opening ceremony of the 6th China Helicopter Exposition in north China's Tianjin Municipality, Sept. 14, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhao Zishuo) by Xinhua writers Hu Tao, Mao Zhenhua, Wang Jinghuai TIANJIN, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- China is accelerating the building of a national emergency air rescue system with characteristics of Chinese modernization by facilitating the progress of homegrown aircraft and various other coordinated moves. "The situation of natural disasters in China is tough and complex. The building of emergency air rescue is a systematic work with great significance, and it is also of importance in promoting the modernization of the national emergency management system and capabilities," said Guo Zhiwu, a senior official with the Ministry of Emergency Management. Guo made the remarks at the 6th China Helicopter Exposition held in north China's Tianjin Municipality. He said that China's emergency rescue sector is making a comprehensive transition from mainly combating forest fires to meeting various challenges from natural disasters. "Moving forward, we are building a system of emergency air rescue equipment that can meet the demands of the country's practical emergency rescue work," Guo added. According to China's 14th Five-Year-Plan (2021-2025), China's national emergency management system will be improved by strengthening and improving the air rescue system and capabilities. Photo taken on July 26, 2022 shows a Z15 (AC352) helicopter in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. (Xinhua) "The Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) is pioneering the development of Chinese aeronautical equipment for emergency rescue operations. It is our mission to sustain the building of the national emergency air rescue system," said Zhou Guoqiang, spokesperson of the AVIC, China's leading aviation manufacturer. Zhou said that the state-owned AVIC highlights significant advantages with a coordinated and complete industrial chain, capacities in developing core technologies, as well as the resilience in maintaining progress amid risks and challenges. At the expo, the AVIC displayed a series of homegrown helicopters and equipment for emergency rescue, especially the AC series civil helicopters such as the 4-tonne-level AC332, 7-tonne-level AC352 and various other major models with latest key progress. Helicopters are an efficient modern emergency rescue method as they can conduct vertical take-off and landing, hover in midair, move freely in any direction and adapt to complex environments. They can reach the "last mile" of disaster-hit areas to save people and deliver supplies, and send patients for medical rescue. They can also search and rescue people in marine accidents, and pour water on fires with installed rescue equipment. An AC313A large utility civil helicopter hovers at an airport in Jingdezhen, east China's Jiangxi Province, May 17, 2022. (Xinhua/Hu Chenhuan) "Emergency rescue is characterized by urgency, difficulty and danger. China's complex geographical environment determines that we must have rescue equipment that can meet all rescue demands," said Xu Chaoliang, vice president with AVIC China Helicopter Research and Development Institute. China must develop and put into use a series of helicopters that can safely carry out rescue operations in all natural disasters across the country, according to Xu, also chief designer of China's 13-tonne-level AC313 large civil helicopter. The AC313 has a maximum take-off weight of 13.8 tonnes with external sling loads. It can carry up to 28 people, and can load up to five tonnes of water in combating fires. "The Chinese-developed technologies, such as the small-diameter wide rotor blade, make this large helicopter capable of conducting rescue missions on high plateaus and sea rescues by boarding vessels," Xu said. China's enhanced emergency air rescue capabilities are facilitating more homegrown aircraft to serve people's well-being. "We are expected to be the pioneer in using more homegrown helicopters and serving emergency rescue operations," said Gong Quan, vice president with China Flying-Dragon General Aviation Co., Ltd. under the AVIC. The company is now operating a fleet of 83 general aircraft, including 43 helicopters, especially a series of Chinese-developed civil helicopters. A female helicopter pilot and flight instructor, Gong has piloted various models of Chinese helicopters on firefighting, flood rescue and other rescue missions. "They can fully meet the needs of various rescue operations in high mountains and valleys," said Gong. "I am so honored to pilot the Chinese-developed helicopters to save our people from danger," she said. 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. ProPetro Holding Corp. (NYSE:PUMP) posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, August, 2nd. The company reported $0.34 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts' consensus estimates of $0.41 by $0.07. The firm had revenue of $435 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $436.27 million. ProPetro had a trailing twelve-month return on equity of 16.81% and a net margin of 5.91%. The company's revenue for the quarter was up 38.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.29 earnings per share. Teekay Tankers Ltd. provides marine transportation services to oil industries in Bermuda and internationally. The company offers voyage and time charter services; and offshore ship-to-ship transfer services of commodities primarily crude oil and refined oil products, as well as liquid gases and various other products. It also provides tanker commercial and technical management; and consultancy, procurement, and equipment rental services, as well as manages terminals and vessels. As of December 31, 2022, the company owned and leased 44 double-hulled oil and product tankers, time-chartered in four Aframax/LR2 tankers, and one Suezmax tanker. Teekay Tankers Ltd. was incorporated in 2007 and is headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda. Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG) issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October, 26th. The restaurant operator reported $11.36 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts' consensus estimates of $10.46 by $0.90. The restaurant operator had revenue of $2.47 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.47 billion. Chipotle Mexican Grill had a net margin of 12.27% and a trailing twelve-month return on equity of 45.26%. The company's revenue was up 11.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $9.51 EPS. Read the conference call transcript. McDonald's Corporation is a U.S.-based multinational restaurant chain that serves hamburgers, fries, chicken sandwiches and drinks. The company is the largest restaurant chain by revenue and serves more than 69 million customers daily. Total revenue topped $23 billion in 2022, with most revenue coming from its franchisees. The company operates in 100 countries and is the world's second-largest private employer, with more than 200,000 executives, managers, cooks and front-line staff. McDonald's most iconic food items include French fries and the Big Mac. McDonald's serves hot and crispy fries. Its Big Mac is a double-decker burger with cheese, lettuce, tomato and "secret sauce," a combination of thousand island and French dressing that evokes a sharper flavor. Richard and Maurice McDonald founded McDonald's in 1940. Its first restaurant location was in San Bernardino, California, and it quickly rebranded into a hamburger stand. The new concept met colossal success, and soon, the two were franchising their brand to other operators. The key to the brother's success was the Speedee Service System introduced in 1948. This system modeled concepts established by earlier chains. The company introduced the golden arches in 1953 in Arizona and reached a significant turning point in 1955 when Ray Kroc entered the picture. He came aboard as the company's franchising agent and bought the company while expanding it. His first restaurant was the company's ninth total, but many agree that Kroc created the modern McDonald's Corporation. During his tenure, McDonald's expanded its footprint, enhanced its menu and grew into international territories. The fictional character Ronald McDonald came to life in 1963. He lives in McDonaldland with his pals Mayor McCheese, Grimace, Birdie the Early Bird, the Fry Kids and the Hamburglar. He was invented as a marketing ploy to attract children and has become one of the nation's most beloved characters. At the peak of his popularity, the company employed more than 300 full-time clowns to portray Ronald McDonald. Today, McDonald's Corporation operates and franchises McDonald's restaurants globally. The company generates revenue via sales in company-owned stores and rents, fees and royalties from its franchisees. The company's business model is to aid franchisees with real estate purchases and buildings so that it can collect on rent and other fees and brand royalties. As of 2022, the company owns about 45% of the land its restaurants sit on and 70% of the buildings. This model not only generates additional revenue and earnings but helps to insulate it from ups and downs in the consumer cycle. As of December 31, 2023, the company operated about 38,000 restaurants, which includes the closing or divestiture of business in Russia. Walmart Inc. is the worlds biggest company by revenue and its largest employer with over 2.2 million globally. It is a general merchandise discount retailer founded in 1962 by Sam Walton and remains a very tightly-held family-owned company to this day. At last look, the Walton family and its heirs owned more than 50% of the company through the family-holding company Walton Enterprises and individual holdings. As of October 2022, the company operated nearly 10,600 stores in 24 countries under 46 different banners. For example, Walmart de Mexico is the Mexican branch while Flipkart Wholesale is the companys operations in India. Sam Walton began his crusade to undercut retail competitors began in the early 1950s. He opened the first Wal-Mart Discount City store in 1962 and was able to leverage the brand to great success. It became a publicly traded company in 1972 and was the US's most profitable retailer by 1988. The chain went nationwide in the early 1990s and expanded to international markets soon after that. While the company has seen some success outside the US, those remain limited, and the US is the primary market and produces well over 60% of the revenue and earnings. Today, the company operates through three segments that include Walmart U.S., Walmart International, and Sam's Club. The stores offer groceries, health, beauty, apparel, footwear, household, furniture, automotive, electronics and recreational products among others. In addition, the company offers a wide variety of ancillary services that include automotive repair, tire change, vision/eyeglass services and financial services that include gift cards, prepaid wireless, check cashing and money transfers. Sams Club, launched in 1989, is the companys membership club brand. It is the second-largest membership club in North America and about 12% of Walmarts total revenue. Walmart is a Dividend Aristocrat with nearly 50 years of consecutive annual dividend increases to its credit. Based on the 2022 financial metrics, the company is capable of sustaining another several decades of increases at a low single-digit pace. Once a laggard in ESG, Walmart is now a leader in environmental, social, and governance issues. The companys efforts include increasing the efficiency of its truck and vehicle fleets to include the upgrade to electrification or hydrogen fuel cells. In terms of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles alone, the company had upgraded more than 9,500 of its warehouse and facility service machines to fuel cells as of mid-2022 and was also working to electrify its vehicle fleets. 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. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addresses the opening of the Sustainable Development Goals Summit at the UN headquarters in New York, on Sept. 18, 2023. Guterres on Monday called for a global rescue plan for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). (Xinhua/Li Rui) UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called for a global rescue plan for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Halfway into the implementation of the SDGs, only 15 percent of the targets are on track and many are going in reverse, Guterres told the opening of the SDG Summit. "Instead of leaving no one behind, we risk leaving the SDGs behind." Therefore, the SDGs need a global rescue plan, he said. Guterres called for action to reduce hunger, quicker transition to renewable energy, wider spread of the benefits and opportunities of digitalization, better education for children and youth, decent work and social protection, and climate action. Eight years ago, UN member states adopted the SDGs, which were not a promise made to one another as diplomats but rather a promise to people -- people crushed under the grinding wheels of poverty, people starving in a world of plenty, children denied a seat in a classroom, families fleeing conflicts, parents watching helplessly as their children die of preventable disease, people losing hope because they cannot find a job or a safety net, entire communities literally on devastation's doorstep because of changing climate, noted Guterres. "So, the SDGs aren't just a list of goals. They carry the hopes, dreams, rights and expectations of people everywhere. And they provide the surest path to living up to our obligations under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, now in its 75th year," he said. At the halfway point to the SDG deadline, people around the world are demanding urgent action, he said. "We can prevail -- if we act now; if we act together; if we keep our promise to the billions of people whose hopes, dreams and futures you hold in your hands. Now is the time," said Guterres. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres (Front) addresses the opening of the Sustainable Development Goals Summit at the UN headquarters in New York, on Sept. 18, 2023. Guterres on Monday called for a global rescue plan for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). (Xinhua/Li Rui) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres (at the podium and on the screens) addresses the opening of the Sustainable Development Goals Summit at the UN headquarters in New York, on Sept. 18, 2023. Guterres on Monday called for a global rescue plan for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). (Xinhua/Li Rui) 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. TEHRAN, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Iran and the United States conducted a prisoner swap on Monday, releasing five detainees from each side, according to media reports and Iranian officials. Five American prisoners, along with two of their family members, boarded a plane that left Tehran for Qatar's capital Doha on Monday, Qatar-based Al Jazeera quoted a U.S. official as saying. In the meanwhile, U.S. media reported that U.S. President Joe Biden has granted clemency to five Iranians as part of the prisoner swap deal. Earlier on Monday, Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nassar Kanaani confirmed in a press conference that the swap would happen on Monday. Kanaani said five Iranian nationals imprisoned in the U.S. would be released, and Iran would hand over the same number of American citizens incarcerated in Iran. Two of the Iranian nationals to be released would return to Iran, one would travel to another country where his family is living, and two others would remain in the U.S., where they had been living before their imprisonment, the spokesman added. Also on Monday, Governor of the Central Bank of Iran Mohammad Reza Farzin said the Iranian assets previously frozen in South Korean banks, amounting to around 5.94 billion dollars, have been transferred to six Iranian accounts in two Qatari banks. The unfreezing of the Iranian assets is widely seen as part of the prisoner swap deal between Tehran and Washington. However, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian denied in August any link between the prisoner swap with the U.S. and the release of the country's frozen assets abroad. [September 18, 2023] Industrial Outdoor Storage Innovator Rig Hut Transforms Truck Parking with Tech-Powered Marketplace Tweet Rig Hut, an innovator in industrial outdoor storage technology, today announced the launch of an enhanced, technologically-enabled marketplace and management tool that pairs millions of truck drivers with thousands of outdoor storage landlords in real time. Commercial real estate veteran Thomas A. Rizk is making an early-stage investment to fund the next phase of technology development, marketing, operational and revenue growth efforts. Rig Hut is poised to modernize the $200 billion outdoor storage industry by helping landlords monetize underutilized property, connecting them with truck drivers in need of secure and available parking spaces throughout the country. Property owners who use Rig Hut are able to immediately approve and assign parking stalls, engage in comprehensive inventory management, and access built-in automated communication for rapid support and functions. As an advanced feature, Rig Hut can seamlessly integrate its reservation system into a property's existing smart gate programs, allowing for fully automated functionality. South Florida-based entrepreneurs Jake Guso and Jose Lorido founded Rig Hut to solve the critical needs facing the truck parking industry identified from firsthand experience managing outdoor storage facilities. This hands-on experience informed the development of the suit of technology-enabled management tools designed to streamline transactions and automate facility management, ultimately increasing revenue while diminishing operating costs. "During our time working directly with truck drivers and landlords managing truck parking facilities, it became apparent that these two groups share an intersecting problem which requires a unique, intersecting solution. We are excited to roll out Rig Hut's new technology platform and state-of-the-art marketplace designed to help our country's hard-working truck drivers find safe parking efficiently by pairing them with well-equipped property owners with available space," said Mr. Guso, co-founder of Rig Hut. "Our goal is to transform the outdoor storage industry by introducing a much-needed modernized operating system for industrial parking operators and a safer experience for drivers," said Mr. Lorido, co-founder of Rig Hut. "The lack of available parking spaces has directly impacted the safety, security and financial strength of the trucking industry. Landlords are also encountering significant barriers in this environment preventing them from effectively managing and monetizing their portfolios, leading to millions of dollars in lost revenue each year. Rig Hut is a win-win for both sides." In 2012, Congress passed "Jason's Law" in honor of ason Rivenburg, a truck driver who lost his life in a violent crime due to insufficient safe truck parking. The legislation requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to regularly evaluate each state's parking capabilities, truck traffic volume, and the overall adequacy of available parking facilities. This publicly available survey has helped shine a light on the national shortage safe, sufficient parking. DOT, together with the American Trucking Association and Owner-Operated Independent Drivers Association shared that a staggering 98% of truck drivers report problems finding safe parking and are forced to spend 56 minutes locating sufficient parking. In addition to the physical safety issues, this inefficient use of time reduces an individual driver's productivity by 9,300 revenue-earning miles a year, equating to nearly $16 billion in lost productivity across the labor pool. To meet this critical need and support the effectiveness of the U.S. supply chain, Rig Hut's marketplace empowers millions of truck drivers with immediate access to a network of over 3,000 secure parking spaces. By offering real-time inventory reporting, the drivers' experience becomes efficient and unhindered, enabling them to browse, filter, request, and book parking spaces on-demand. The platform will seamlessly display available parking spaces near the driver's current location and provide access instructions immediately upon booking confirmation. As rapid expansion continues nationwide, Rig Hut is now operating with a strong presence in a number of prime markets, including California, Florida, Texas, Georgia, South Carolina, New Jersey, Arizona, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Illinois and Missouri. One key customer on the platform, Fleet Parking Solutions is utilizing Rig Huts management tools to seamlessly control slip assignments, automate payments, and onboard drivers to secure one of their 1,400 parking spots at their nine lots throughout New Jersey. Penske, one of the largest corporate transportation companies in the country has partnered with Rig Hut to secure parking for their drivers in California and Michigan. Additionally, a large network of drivers who work for Ryder, Landstar and other independent owner-operators are also utilizing Rig Hut to locate parking at participating lots throughout the country. "When we first met Jake and Jose, we knew immediately that their technology addressed a big, messy and significant problem facing the transportation and real estate industries today," said Thomas A. Rizk, Founder and Chairman of Rizk Ventures. "Rizk Ventures has a successful track record investing in early-stage technology companies, and we are confident that Rig Hut has the inside track to become true market leaders in the $200 billion outdoor storage industry." To learn more about the full suite of technology enabled services Rig Hut provides or join the marketplace today, visit www.therighut.com. About Rig Hut Rig Hut is a technology company operating a leading truck parking and outdoor storage space solution in the United States. The company was founded in 2022 by real estate and technology service veterans, Jake Guso and Jose Lorido after they gained direct experience managing industrial parking lots. Rig Hut was built to offer an innovative solution to pair truckers in need of safe and secure parking with property owners looking to monetize underutilized property while providing the tools necessary to operate facilities efficiently. Backed by real estate investment platform, Rizk Ventures, Rig Hut currently supports a nationwide network of drivers and lot partners throughout the East Coast and Southwest. About Rizk Ventures Rizk Ventures was founded by Thomas A. Rizk in 1993, as a special situations operating business utilizing technology to launch businesses focused on solving everyday problems. Since inception, Rizk Ventures has a proven track record of identifying and solving inefficiencies across multiple sectors. Rizk Venture's goal is to take advantage of its strengths by arming founders with the tools needed for unprecedented competitive advantage within their industry. Across its portfolio companies, Rizk Ventures owns more than 26 million square feet of real estate across 314 properties in the suburban office, light industrial, healthcare and self-storage sectors. In its LaunchTech vertical, Rizk Ventures has established platforms with artificial intelligence technology to address inefficiencies and problems in the real estate, healthcare, supply chain and transportation sectors. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918278969/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] Munsch Hardt Moves to Renovated Space Within Ross Tower Tweet Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr, P.C. (Munsch Hardt) announces the relocation of its Dallas headquarters to new, state-of-the-art space in Ross Tower. This move comes as a result of the Firm's remarkable growth and the need for expanded facilities to better serve its clients in the thriving Dallas legal market. Founded in 1985 by Dan Decker, John Dinan, Joe Hardt, Steve Harr and Rick Kopf, as well as the late Russ Munsch, the Texas-based law firm signed its first lease with the office property in 2005, occupying floors 36, 38 and 39. As of Monday, September 18, 2023, the Firm, which experienced more than 60% local growth since signing its original lease, relocated to three consecutive floors - 40, 41 and 42. "Munsch Hardt's decision to remain in Ross Tower was part of a comprehensive, multi-site selection process. By moving up and building out three consecutive floors, we are able to maintain the same square footage while enjoying a better, more efficient and technologically advanced space that still provides opportunity for future growth. After almost two years of planning, we are excited to welcome our clients and employees into our new space," stated Phil Appenzeller, CEO of Munsch Hardt. "The culture of the Dallas office has always been of the utmost importance to us. This move allows us to preserve what makes us special while also continuing to grow and evolve in the tate we call home." After soliciting input from all levels of employees within the Dallas office, the redesigned space was thoughtfully planned to foster collaboration, efficiency and client-focused interactions. With a contemporary design and cutting-edge facilities, the new office features: Advanced technology infrastructure A variety of conference room layouts and Zoom rooms Work cafe, complete with the "Munsch Hardt Cantina" An internal stairwell connecting all three floors Uniform office designs Updated internal suite access controls Increased capacity to accommodate future growth The Firm attributes its growth in Dallas to a combination of (i) a longstanding, loyal client base; (ii) lateral recruiting successes; and (iii) increased demand from new and legacy clients over the past several years. Top clients for the Dallas office include: Bandera Ventures; BIG Outdoor; Compatriot Capital, Inc.; Fujitsu Network Communications, Inc.; HALL Group; HP Village Partners, LP; M Crowd Restaurant Group, Inc.; Greyhound Lines, Inc.; Sammons Industrial, Inc.; Sammons Infrastructure, Inc.; Samsung Electronics America, Inc.; Stream Realty Partners; Texas Health Resources; and The Home Depot, Inc., to name a few. "We are fortunate to have many longstanding clients, some of whom have been, and grown, with Munsch Hardt since it was founded in the 1980s," continued Appenzeller. "Additionally, as we see the market soften, our rate structure is typically well positioned for larger companies looking for first-class legal services at a price point that makes sense within the Texas legal market. Renovating space in Ross Tower enabled us to meet these growing client needs while staying true to our core values. We are hopeful this move builds upon our ability to attract and retain both top-caliber clients and attorneys, as we will continue to provide a welcoming, efficient and productive environment." Munsch Hardt's new Dallas address is: Ross Tower 500 N. Akard Street, Suite 4000 Dallas, Texas 75201 Representing Munsch Hardt in its lease renewal was Stream Realty Partners, a national real estate services, development and investment firm headquartered in Dallas. Gensler, a global architecture and design firm that also designed Munsch Hardt's 2022 office space in Houston, led the architectural design efforts. Pacific Builders served as the General Contractor. About Munsch Hardt Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr, P.C. is a Texas-based, mid-sized, full-service law firm with more than 170 attorneys in Austin, Dallas and Houston. The Firm provides a full spectrum of first class legal services, representing commercial clients on any legal matter they may face during the life cycle of their business, from start-up ventures to established institutions with legal needs across Texas and around the globe. The Firm's clients are active in multiple industries, ranging from energy, real estate, construction and financial services, to manufacturing, technology and transportation. Munsch Hardt and its attorneys have earned accolades for their work, such as in Chambers USA and U.S. News - Best Lawyers "Best Law Firms; and has been named among the "Top 100 Places to Work" by The Dallas Morning News and on the "Middle Market 50" for the fastest growing companies in Dallas by The Dallas Business Journal. For more information about Munsch Hardt and its services, visit www.munsch.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918988380/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 17, 2023] Joining Hands for Ten Years: Building Together for Mutual Success | China Telecom Global Showcases at the Belt and Road Summit Tweet HONG KONG, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The 8th Belt and Road Summit, held in Hong Kong from September 13th to 14th, concluded successfully. The summit witnessed the participation of nearly 6,000 government officials, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and start-ups from nearly 70 countries and regions, as well as over 100 overseas and mainland delegations. As the platinum sponsor of this event, China Telecom Global engaged in discussions with the political and business communities from countries and regions along the Belt and Road, aiming to promote regional cooperation and foster trade partnerships under the Belt and Road Initiative, thus embracing the new era of the initiative. Under the theme "Prospering on a Decade of Collaboration," Chief Executive of the HKSAR, John Lee Ka-chiu , stated that Hong Kong serves as a vital platform for expanding cooperation between mainland China and the world. He highlighted Hong Kong's significant role in the Belt and Road Initiative and expressed the hope that participants from various countries could seize this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of China's economic development potential and identify potential partners for collaboration. China Telecom Global deeply understands and embraces the significant spirit of the Belt and Road Summit. We are committed to actively implementing the directives and collaborating with global partners to jointly build the Belt and Road Initiative. We aim to drive industrial digital transformation and unleash the power of the global digital economy. During the two-day summit, China Telecom Global organised a booth under the theme of "Integrated Cloud and Network for a Smarter elt & Road", with sections of "On-cloud Intelligent Digitalisation" and "Empowering as a Service". Through these sections, we focused on showcasing China Telecom's world-class digital technology services and comprehensive capabilities and implementation to empower the development of the Belt and Road Initiative. As one of the earliest domestic operators to establish a global presence, China Telecom has established overseas branches in 41 countries and regions, with business operations spanning across the Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa. On the first day of the event, Clarence Tang, Senior Solution Consultant of China Telecom Global, delivered an insightful theme speech. He provided a detailed introduction to China Telecom's international strengths and customised industry solutions. China Telecom's eSurfing Cloud has been actively practising the concept of cloud-network integration, continuously expanding the breadth and depth of its cloud and network infrastructure coverage. It has established a distributed cloud and network resource layout of "2+4+31+X+O" and a strategic layout of overseas resource nodes of "9+30+X+N." eSurfing Cloud has achieved a series of accomplishments in technological innovation, independent controllability, security and trustworthiness, and cloud-network integration. Its self-developed products have formed the capability of "one cloud, multiple cores; one cloud, multiple forms" in terms of output and integration. Leveraging the advantages of cloud-network integration and the full-stack self-research capability of key technologies, eSurfing Cloud has built an integrated product system encompassing cloud, network, edge, client, digital, intelligence, and security. It provides DICT (Digital Information and Communications Technology) services such as SD-WAN, cloud connectivity, multi-cloud management platforms, cloud-network management platforms, and cloud security platforms. These services deeply support the digital transformation process of various industries, catering to the diverse business scenarios of enterprises. With one-stop customised solutions, China Telecom Global assists in promoting high-quality cross-border development. China Telecom Global will uphold its corporate mission of "Empowering Customer Success with World-Class Digital and Intelligent Technology Services", its vision of becoming an internationally leading enterprise trusted by customers, proud of its employees, and praised by the industry, as well as its core values of "Customer First, Open and Entrepreneurial, ONE CTG, and People-oriented". We will actively participate in the information construction of countries and regions along the Belt and Road, promoting the interconnectivity of local digital infrastructure. With China Telecom Global 's abundant cloud and network resources and the mature overseas service capability of eSurfing Cloud, we are continuously assisting enterprises in achieving their overseas expansion goals and meeting the demands of expanding overseas and participating in the Belt and Road Initiative. We actively participate in and contribute to the high-quality development of the Belt and Road Initiative, working hand in hand with various sectors of society to jointly build and share the achievements of Belt and Road cooperation. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/joining-hands-for-ten-years-building-together-for-mutual-success--china-telecom-global-showcases-at-the-belt-and-road-summit-301929934.html SOURCE China Telecom Global [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 17, 2023] Siegwerk celebrates milestone in Project STOP waste management initiative Tweet Siegwerk supported the project as strategic partner from 2020 to 2023. Together with other partners great achievement were made during this time in Pasuruan, East Java, Indonesia: more than 130.000 people have received access to waste management, more than 120 permanent jobs were created and more than 5.000 metric tonnes of waste were collected. BANYUWANGI, Indonesia, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Siegwerk, one of the leading global providers of printing inks and coatings, was present at a ceremony in Banyuwangi to celebrate the inauguration of the Balak Material Recovery Facility, co-hosted by Project STOP Banyuwangi and the Banyuwangi Government. Siegwerk became a strategic partner of Project STOP in 2020, thereby actively supporting the creation of circular waste management systems in Indonesia to eliminate leakage of plastics into the environment. Project STOP, a frontline initiative co-founded by Borealis and SYSTEMIQ, designs, implements and scales circular economy solutions to marine plastic pollution in Southeast Asia. Since its launch in 2017, Project STOP has welcomed various industrial, governmental, academia, and community partners designing, implementing, and scaling circular economy solutions to prevent lastic waste pollution. In 2022, Project STOP's first city partnership in Muncar, also located in the Banyuwangi regency in East Java, achieved all financial, governance and technical targets, thereby demonstrating that public-private partnerships can work to permanently reduce waste and plastics leakage into the environment and ocean. This success was further built on in Pasuruan, proving that the Project STOP model is sustainable and scalable. The inauguration of Balak Material Recovery Facility will continue the ambition to scale. The target is to reach 250.000 residents and process 84 metric tonnes of waste each day. "Project STOP is an example of the success that can be achieved when industry and government partners collaborate effectively. For Siegwerk, this has been a very rewarding endeavor to be a part of," said Ralf Hildenbrand, President Americas, Global Technology, PSR and Circular Economy at Siegwerk. "It is so important to think in terms of systems if we hope to tackle the plastic waste crisis. This means reducing packaging or designing packaging that can be recycled or reused, and additionally paying attention to waste collection and management infrastructures in areas where these aspects might be falling short. Siegwerk is dedicated to enabling circular packaging through innovation and design, and this inauguration is a celebration of achieving success in the waste management sphere as well," added Alina Marm, Global Head of Sustainability and Circular Economy at Siegwerk. The Banyuwangi Regency, where Muncar and Balak are located, lies east on the island of Java, which is one of the important economic centers in Indonesia, and home of more than half of Indonesia's population. This effort as a whole aims to contribute to Indonesia's national commitment to reduce marine plastic pollution by 70% by 2025. About Siegwerk Siegwerk is one of the leading global manufacturers of printing inks and coatings for packaging applications and labels. Based on 200 years of expertise, we provide customized solutions for all types of packaging needs - from functional and eye-catching to safe and sustainable. As a sixth-generation family business, we have long been aware of our responsibility for future generations. Under the motto "rethINK packaging", we are therefore actively driving the transformation to a circular economy by developing eco-friendly solutions that enable packaging circularity. Here, 30+ country organizations and ~5,000 employees worldwide ensure consistent high-quality products and customized support around the world. Learn more at www.siegwerk.com View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/siegwerk-celebrates-milestone-in-project-stop-waste-management-initiative-301929970.html SOURCE Siegwerk [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] Energy Sector Risks Falling Behind on Gender Diversity Tweet Women Make Up an Average of 23% of the Workforce, One of the Lowest Numbers of Any Major Sector Women's Representation in the Workforce Is Up Only 1% Since 2020 The Majority of Underrepresented Groups Found Flexible Working Helped Their Career Trajectories BOSTON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Women make up an average of 23% of the oil and gas industry workforce, up by only 1% since 2020. Oil and gas continues to lag behind most major sectors, with only construction performing worse, at 14%. Overall representation in entry-level positions has reached 27% from a previous 25%, but it drops to only 20% by senior level. Operations and technical roles showed the biggest drop, from 18% at entry level, to only 5% for executives, according to new research published today by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and WPC Energy. The report, titled Untapped Reserves 3.0: Advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Energy Sector, is the third in a series exploring the topic. For the first time, this year's edition also looks at underrepresented ethnic and racial groups (UERGs); lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning and/or queer (LGBTQ+) people; people with health conditions or disabilities; veterans of active military, naval, or air service; caregivers of children or adult dependents; and people from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Its scope has also been expanded beyond oil and gas to cover the wider energy sector, including power and utilities and new energy companies. Regional and Sector Variations Energy companies in the Asia Pacific region reported the highest average share of women in the workforce, with 27%, followed by Central and South America at 26%, North America at 25%, and the Middle East and Africa at 20%. Power and utilities companies outperform oil and gas, with women making up 26% of the workforce on average, and 22% at senior levels. Likely drivers include higher regulation of the secto which may encourage higher rates of diversity and inclusion, as well as higher location flexibility, compared with oil and gas where relocation is often expected. Power and utilities companies also have higher implementation rates of key interventions, including flexible, remote, and hybrid work policies, linking leadership compensation to diversity, equality, and inclusion (DE&I) goals, and establishing leadership positions such as a chief diversity officer. "Time and time again, our experience shows that diverse teams provide a rich seam of perspectives, experiences, and talent. Inclusivity creates a safe environment for sharing ideas, for problem-solving, and for innovation," said Whitney Hughes-Plummer, a BCG managing director and partner. "Now, more than ever, innovation is crucial to our sector, faced with the challenges of the energy transition and of the trilemma around energy sustainability, affordability, and security. By investing in diversity, equity, and inclusion, we are investing in innovation." Key DE&I Initiatives BCG research shows there are four types of DE&I initiatives that are linked with higher levels of women's representation at senior levels: flexible working and caregiver supportive policies, balanced promotion practices, commitment from senior leadership, and intentional recruiting. The sector has continued to progress in implementing core initiatives. Ninety-three percent of energy companies in our survey have anti-sexual-harassment policies in place; 91% have anti-discrimination policies; and most have, or plan to develop, maternity leave policies. The Covid-19 pandemic saw the expansion of remote and hybrid working models. Only 22% of the companies in our survey had remote or hybrid work policies in place by 2020, but an additional 56% introduced such policies between 2020 and 2023. However, 56% of companies plan to either reduce or eliminate remote working in the future. Our survey found that this will have a disproportionate impact on underrepresented groups. The results show that 62% of women, 54% of people with health conditions or disabilities, and 66% of LGBTQ+ employees found that flexible working policies had a positive impact on their career, compared with 46% of men. "The Untapped Reserves 3.0 survey, which for the first time includes data from power, utilities, and new energy companies, provides an urgent reminder that much remains to be done to gain the performance and productivity benefits that a diverse workforce provides," said Pedro Miras, WPC Energy President. "This recurring report provides in-depth analysis of the effectiveness of DE&I policies and suggests a comprehensive framework for activating DE&I within the energy sector. As a community, we must work together to remove the complex barriers in place in order to employ and retain the very best people." Download the publication here: https://www.bcg.com/publications/2023/untapped-reserves-3-0-advancing-dei-in-the-energy-sector Media Contact: Eric Gregoire [email protected] About Boston Consulting Group Boston Consulting Group partners with leaders in business and society to tackle their most important challenges and capture their greatest opportunities. BCG was the pioneer in business strategy when it was founded in 1963. Today, we work closely with clients to embrace a transformational approach aimed at benefiting all stakeholdersempowering organizations to grow, build sustainable competitive advantage, and drive positive societal impact. Our diverse, global teams bring deep industry and functional expertise and a range of perspectives that question the status quo and spark change. BCG delivers solutions through leading-edge management consulting, technology and design, and corporate and digital ventures. We work in a uniquely collaborative model across the firm and throughout all levels of the client organization, fueled by the goal of helping our clients thrive and enabling them to make the world a better place. About WPC Energy WPC Energy, the World Forum for Energy Transformation, is a non-advocacy, non-political organization with charitable status in the UK and accreditation as a Non-Governmental Organization from the United Nations. Formed in 1933 and comprising 60 National Committees, WPC Energy facilitates as open dialogue around oil, gas, energy, and their products and is dedicated to the promotion of their sustainable management for the benefit of all. WPC Energy organizes the triennial World Petroleum Congress which, with a typical attendance of over 15,000, provides a neutral and inclusive platform to debate and define realistic, workable paths to a net zero future. The event brings together thought leaders from across the global energy industry including Heads of State, Ministers, CEOs, Presidents and Heads of International Organizations, as well as engineers, academics, and the NGO community. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/energy-sector-risks-falling-behind-on-gender-diversity-301929611.html SOURCE Boston Consulting Group (BCG) [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] 2023 Asian Green and Low-Carbon Development Roundtable successfully held Tweet SUZHOU, China, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2023 Asia Green and Low-Carbon Development Roundtable hosted by State Power Investment Corporation Limited was successfully held in Suzhou on September 7. Senior leaders and representatives from energy authorities, leading enterprises, research institutions, and industry organizations in 9 countries, including Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, and China, conducted in-depth exchanges and discussions on topics such as clean energy technology innovation and application, and Asian clean energy cooperation and development. Francisco La Camera, Director General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), said that IRENA will continue to cooperate with Asian countries to support and optimize the established clean energy transformation framework and actively contribute to promoting clean energy transformation. Long Yongtu, former vice minister of the then Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation and chief negotiator for China's accession to the WTO, said that China's investment in the field of green energy is of great significance to the realization of global low-carbon and green development. It is hoped that all countries in Asia will work together to promote the implementation of more practical cooperation results. Chen Haibin, Vice President of SPIC, said that the group has cooperated with Turkey, Kazakhstan, Mongolia and other countries and has achieved good results in energy cooperation. SPIC is willing to give full play to its advantages in technology, industry, management, and capital to contribute more to the efficient development and utilization of clean energy in Asia. SPIC has held two consecutive Asian Green and Low-Carbon Development Roundtables, aiming to promote mutually-beneficial cooperation among Asian countries and advance the cause of green and low-carbon development. The forum received registrations from over 400 participants, collectively focusing on a green and low-carbon future. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/2023-asian-green-and-low-carbon-development-roundtable-successfully-held-301930055.html SOURCE State Power Investment Corporation Limited [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] TEHRAN, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani said Monday that the country is open to indirect nuclear talks with the United States on the sidelines of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) through mediators. Kanaani made the remarks at a press conference in Tehran, commenting on the likelihood of talks between Iran and the other parties to the 2015 nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), on its revival and the removal of sanctions on Iran. Kanaani said Iran will pursue efforts to lift the sanctions through diplomatic talks and is committed to the negotiation path. He added that Iran will use any potential opportunity along the diplomatic path to remove the "cruel" sanctions and prepare the ground for a "committed return" by all sides, including the United States, to the JCPOA. Kanaani noted that Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, leading a high-ranking delegation, left Tehran for New York on Sunday to attend the UNGA meetings, adding that the trip is a very good opportunity for holding meetings and negotiations. The spokesman added that in addition to delivering a speech at the UNGA meeting, the Iranian president will hold bilateral talks with a number of foreign leaders and attend several meetings on the sidelines of the main event. Iran signed the JCPOA with world powers in July 2015, agreeing to put some curbs on its nuclear program in return for the removal of sanctions on the country. The United States, however, pulled out of the deal in May 2018 and reimposed its unilateral sanctions on Tehran, prompting the latter to drop some of its nuclear commitments under the deal. The talks on the revival of the JCPOA began in April 2021 in Vienna, Austria. Despite several rounds of talks, no significant breakthrough has been achieved since the end of the last round in August 2022. [September 18, 2023] ViCentra to Present at Emerging Medtech Summit Europe 2023 Tweet UTRECHT, The Netherlands, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ViCentra B.V., the company behind Kaleido, one of the worlds smallest, lightest and most precise Insulin Pump systems for treating people with Diabetes, today announced that Frans Cromme, CEO will provide a corporate update at the Emerging Medtech Summit Europe taking place in Barcelona, Spain, September 18 to 22, 2023. Presentation Details Date: Thursday, September 21 Time: 3:05-3:14 pm CET (Track 1) Location: The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Arts, Barcelona If you are interested in arranging a one-on-one meeting with management, please contact Leo Toole at ViCentra. About ViCentra B.V. ViCentra, the company behind Kaleido is based in the Netherlands. Our philosophy is to make innovative products that put people first. With our focus on diabetes, we develop our products not for patients, but for people. We believe that when products are simple, are designed beautifully, and deliver outstanding results. They provide more user enjoyment and help people live better on their own terms. It was with this philosophy in mind that Kaleido was born. Kaleido is a pioneering insulin delivery system for people with type 1 diabetes. Through its unique pulse technology, it provides extremely precise and reliable delivery of insulin, giving its user the peace of mind and freedom thats often missing for those with a long term health condition. To learn more about ViCentra, visit the Companys website at https://hellokaleido.com/. Company Contacts: Frans Cromme, CEO [email protected] Leo Toole, CFO [email protected] Investor Relations Contact: Michael Wood LifeSci Advisors [email protected] [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] International Equal Pay Day: ESI Group Fosters Gender Equity at Work and Globally Raises Salaries for Women Returning From Maternity Leave Tweet Regulatory News: ESI Group (Paris:ESI), the world-renowned simulation and virtual prototyping software provider for industry, is actively working to ensure gender equality in the workplace and is implementing actions aimed at eliminating pay gap discrimination. September 18th commemorates International Equal Pay Day, an occasion dedicated to raising awareness about unequal pay and advocating for the closure of the gender pay gap. Over the past two decades, the pay gap has been shrinking, albeit slowly. In 2022, it was March 15th. Back in 2005, Equal Pay Day was April 19th. This year, Equal Pay Day for all women was Tuesday, March 14th, 2023 whereas Moms' Equal Pay Day occurred on August 15th. Acknowledging this disparity, the Group has taken proactive steps by extending the French best practice consisting of increasing the salaries of women returning from maternity leave to the 17 other countries where the Group operates: all women returning from maternity leave were guaranteed a salary increase, at a minimum, in line with their respective country's budget. This year, the 7 employees who came back from maternity leave benefited from this. Furthermore, in line with ESI commitments to the United Nations Women's Empowerment Principles (WEP), the Group monitored and maintained close vigiance over the percentage of employees receiving salary increases by gender, as well as the average percentage increase by gender. ESI Group maintains its steadfast gender-neutral compensation policy, using objective market data tailored to employee positions and organizational levels, irrespective of gender. It actively promotes gender equality and proactively recommends salary increases to campaign-involved managers, with a strong focus on fine-tuning gender equity in the salary review process this year. Introduced in May 2022, the Women@ESI network, a dedicated initiative aimed at fostering internal collaboration among employees and establishing an open communication platform for exchanging ideas that enhance the representation and empowerment of women, continues to evolve. Moreover, the Group has been recognized for its initiatives to promote gender equity in the workplace, among numerous other CSR initiatives. ESI Group was awarded a Silver Grade from the Ethifinance ESG rating on the 28th of July 2023 (formerly Gaia index), also contributing to the UN 5th Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) "Gender Equality". Yannick Charron, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at ESI Group declares: "At the start of the year, ESI Group made a resolute commitment to propel gender equality in the workplace, marketplace, and our community by formally endorsing the United Nations Women's Empowerment Principles (WEP). Our steadfast dedication remains persistent as we actively cultivate an environment free from discrimination. This remains a paramount goal for our organization, and we continuously refine our efforts to ensure gender equality at work and to make ESI Group an exemplary workplace for all." About ESI Group Founded in 1973, ESI Group envisions a world where Industry commits to bold outcomes, addressing high-stakes concerns -environmental impact, safety & comfort for consumers and workers, and adaptable and sustainable business models. ESI provides reliable and customized solutions anchored on predictive physics modeling and virtual prototyping expertise to allow industries to make the right decisions at the right time while managing their complexity. Acting principally in automotive & land transportation, aerospace, defense & naval, and heavy industry, ESI is present in more than 18 countries, employs 1000 people around the world, and reported 2022 sales of 130 million. ESI is headquartered in France and is listed in compartment B of Euronext Paris. For further information, go to www.esi-group.com. https://www.esi-group.com/company/who-we-are Follow ESI LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230917848256/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] Technology can break the barriers: Nagad's Roksana Tweet DHAKA, Bangladesh, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In a remarkable display of technological prowess, Nagad, Bangladesh's leading Mobile Financial Service (MFS) provider, is breaking down barriers and transforming the country's financial landscape. Sadaf Roksana, a co-founder and executive director of Nagad Ltd., the world's fastest-growing mobile money carrier, has recently made the statement in a webinar where the country's top business leaders and high officials of the company attended. She said, "With state-of-the-art technology at its core, Nagad has become a beacon of financial inclusion, convenience, and empowerment for millions of Bangladeshis." "Our company's success story is emblematic of how technologies can bridge the gap between traditional financial services and unbanked or underbanked population in our country," Sadaf, the visionary leader, noted. In a country where access to traditional banking services has been limited, Nagad has emerged as a powerful force of change to bring unbanked people into financial inclusion, she continued. "Our innovations of e-KYC and USSD (*167#)-based customer acquisition system have earned us a large customer base within a shot time," Sadaf said. "We are now going to establish a digital bank. For that, we have completed all necessary preparation. For example, our team has created an AI-based credit rating system to assess creditworthiness of customers," she pointed out. She called upon all working with Nagad to be more proactive to serve customers in an even better way when the digital bank is launched. Mentionable, Sadaf Roksana's legacy is one of empowerment, leadership, and transformative change. As a woman leader, she continues to inspire all to reach for new heights, breaking barriers and leaving an indelible mark on society. With a lasting impact on Bangladesh's corporate landscape, this iconic figure has played a crucial part in hiring skilled female workers on different positions, from the executive to director levels. Currently, the number of female employees in Nagad Limited stands at 40% of the entire workforce. The healthy working environment that prevails in this company has also given a rise to women workers taking on leadership positions, thanks to Sadaf who has been relentless in giving them equal opportunities to think creative and give their opinions on how to take Nagad ahead. About Nagad Ltd (https://www.nagad.com.bd/) Nagad Limited is one of the leading MFS operators in Bangladesh's payment industry with 80 million registered customers and an average daily transaction of about USD 112 million. The digital payment platform, known as a successful public-private partnership between Bangladesh Postal Department and the private sector, was inaugurated in 2019 by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of the people's republic of Bangladesh. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/technology-can-break-the-barriers-nagads-roksana-301929915.html SOURCE NAGAD LTD [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] CardiaCare Completes Seed Extension Raise to Support Clinical Pilot Studies Tweet REHOVOT, Israel, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CardiaCare, a medical device company developing a breakthrough wearable technology for detecting, monitoring, and non-invasively treating cardiac arrhythmias using drug-free neuromodulation, recently closed an over-subscribed Seed Extension round. The financing was led by Solardis Health Ventures and supports efforts to expand the technology's clinical program for multiple indications related to treating Atrial Fibrillation (AFib). CardiaCare's platform can simultaneously help physicians remotely monitor their patients and create dynamic, personalized neuromodulation treatments based on the real-time patient's condition data. CardiaCare's mission is to become the new standard of care all-in-one therapeutic monitoring platform for cardiac arrhythmia patients across the continuum of care. "The oversubscribed closure of this round is a reflection of the potential of CardiaCare's technology to disrupt the standard of care for AFib. We are proud to have Solardis Health Ventures along with savvy clinical and commercial leaders support our journey. Te funds will be used to support existing and future double-blind, multicenter clinical studies to demonstrate the clinical efficacy of CardiaCare's therapy for various indications" said Ofer Halbreich, CEO. "CardiaCare's innovative solution has the potential to significantly disrupt the standard of care in the treatment of AFib and other arrhythmias with a non-invasive wearable that administers neuromodulation stimulation therapy. Multiple clinical studies are already under way as we push to bring this advancement in cardiac care to market," said Ken Nelson, Chairman. "CardiaCare's novel approach to treating AFib using neuromodulation will be a paradigm shift for the millions of patients that have no alternatives to toxic drugs, cardioversion shock therapy, or invasive procedures. Solardis Health Ventures is proud to lead this round and support CardiaCare's mission to become the first therapeutic wearable for cardiac arrhythmia patients," added Amir Soltanianzadeh, Founder & Managing Partner of Solardis Health Ventures. About CardiaCare CardiaCare is a privately-held, Israel-based company developing a platform for both treating and monitoring cardiac arrhythmias such as Atrial Fibrillation. The venture was founded by cardiac arrhythmia specialist and entrepreneur, Amos Ziv, after over a decade of caring for and creating new therapies for patients with AFib. Website: https://my-CardiaCare.com Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211091/CardiaCare_Logo.jpg Media Contact: Ofer Halbreich CEO, CardiaCare Email: [email protected] View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/cardiacare-completes-seed-extension-raise-to-support-clinical-pilot-studies-301927954.html [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] ETH Riyadh 2023: Exploring the Future of the Web3 Ecosystem Tweet RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On October 11th, 2023, ETH Riyadh 2023, presented by Tharawat Technology, Studio 23, ChainIDE, Coffee with Crypto, and Mask, is poised to assemble developers, innovators, and the global blockchain community in a dynamic exchange of ideas and technological advancements. Riyadh is once again primed to assert itself as a global epicenter for blockchain innovation with the imminent arrival of the ETH Riyadh 2023 conference. Riyadh represents a burgeoning center for digital innovation, with a growing tech-savvy community and an environment conducive to the adoption of emerging technologies. The strategic location in the heart of the Middle East makes Riyadh an ideal meeting point for blockchain enthusiasts from diverse regions, fostering international collaboration and innovation. EthRiyadh 2023 is a series of hybrid events, hosted both online and offline, featuring three distinct stages. It kicks off with the META to Global Web3 Builder Competition, taking place from September 18th to October 12th.This competition will feature multiple tracks focusing on the latest innovations in the web3 industry and blockchain technology, encouraging developers and innovators to showcase their skills and creativity. Following with the Builder Conference that Scheduled for October 11th. This part of the event promises captivating talks and panel discussions led by leaders and visionaries in the blockchain field. Attendees will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights into emerging trends and groundbreaking technologies that are shaping the future of web3 and Ethereum. The event culminates with the online Builder Mixer, taking place on October 12th. This is a unique opportunity for participants to connect with a vibrant community of builders, fostering growth and mutual success. Attendees can share stories about their experiences in building and forging meaningful connections that may lead to future achievements in the blockchain industry. For more information about ETH Riyadh 2023, including registration details and agenda updates, please visit [ www.ethriyadh.com ]. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211733/image_5026396_9809199.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/eth-riyadh-2023-exploring-the-future-of-the-web3-ecosystem-301929078.html [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] Peer-Reviewed Publication of Positive Preclinical Data of SiSaf's SIS-ADO2 siRNA Program to Treat Rare Genetic Bone Disorder Osteopetrosis Tweet GUILDFORD, United Kingdom, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SiSaf Ltd, an RNA therapeutics company, is pleased to announce the publication in the peer-reviewed journal Molecular Therapy Nucleic Acids(1) of positive in vivo data demonstrating the safety and efficacy of its siRNA therapy for Autosomal Dominant Osteopetrosis 2 (ADO2). The data reported in the paper demonstrate that siRNA complexed with SiSafs silicon stabilized hybrid lipid nanoparticles (sshLNP) was able to significantly downregulate expression of an ADO2-specific mutant gene. These results could have significant translational impact on bone disease therapies and open the path to human trials of SiSafs potentially curative treatment for Osteopetrosis ADO2. There are currently no approved treatments for this debilitating disease and no other treatments currently in clinical trials. SIS-101-ADO, SiSafs lead in house program, is an ADO2-specific siRNA specifically designed against the human CLCN7G215R mRNA formulated with the companys sshLNP. When tested via single intraperitoneal injection in pre-puberal ADO2 mice, carrying a heterozygous mutation of the Clcn7 gene (Clcn7G213R), SIS-101-ADO significantly downregulated the Clcn7G213R related mRNA levels in femurs at 48 h. Confirmatory results were observed at 2 weeks and 4 weeks after treatments (3 intraperitoneal injections/week), with rescue of the bone phenotype and demonstrating safety. The publication builds on data presented at the American Society of Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR) 2022 Annual Meeting and is jointly authored by SiSaf and its collaborators from the University of L'Aquila, Italy, led by Professor Anna Maria Teti. Co-author on the paper, Dr. Suzanne Saffie-Siebert, CEO of SiSaf Ltd, said, Tareting the bone safely and effectively is a challenge for RNA-based therapies. The in vivo data for our ADO2 treatment show that SiSafs silicon stabilized LNPs are able to deliver siRNA to the bone without any side effects. This is an important milestone on the path to clinical trials of SiSafs treatment for autosomal dominant Osteopetrosis type 2. And it could have wider translational significance for RNA-based treatments of other skeletal disorders. Professor Anna Maria Teti added, We cant wait to see SIS-101-ADO used to treat ADO2 patients and look forward to further collaboration with SiSaf on potential therapies for other skeletal disorders. SiSaf has had ongoing productive collaboration with Professor Tetis group for over three years and continues to progress studies in support of its IND data package for SIS-101-ADO. During 2023 it successfully submitted an application to the U.S. FDA for Orphan Drug Designation for SIS-101-ADO which was granted in May. In addition, due to the serious manifestations of this rare skeletal disorder in children, the FDA granted SIS-101-ADO Rare Pediatric Disease Designation for the treatment of Autosomal Dominant Osteopetrosis. 1. Novel hybrid silicon-lipid nanoparticles deliver a siRNA to cure autosomal dominant osteopetrosis in mice. Implications for gene therapy in humans: Molecular Therapy Nucleic Acids: VOLUME 33, P925-937, SEPTEMBER 12, 2023, Antonio Maurizi et. al. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.omtn.2023.08.020 ABOUT SISAF SiSaf is an RNA therapeutics company with a proprietary delivery platform. Its lead programs are a siRNA treatment for Osteopetrosis ADO2 and a partnered siRNA treatment for Corneal Dystrophy. The company is in the process of expanding its pipeline to other fields, including oncology. SiSafs proprietary Bio-Courier delivery platform uses silicon stabilized hybrid lipid nanoparticles (sshLNP) to improve the stability, safety, and transfection efficiency of RNA. sshLNP remove the need for an ultra-cold chain and unlike conventional lipid nanoparticles, they can be manufactured empty and the RNA can be introduced in a separate step. Led by founder and leading biomaterials specialist Dr. Suzanne Saffie-Siebert, SiSaf is a venture capital-backed private company. Headquartered in Guildford, UK, it has fully integrated research labs and bio-analytical facilities, a scalable technology to fast-track development, and a growing patent estate with extensive freedom to operate. To learn more, please visit www.sisaf.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter. For further information please contact: MEDIA ENQUIRIES Scius communications Sue Charles [email protected] +44 7968726585 Katja Stout [email protected] +44 7789435990 [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] Xsolla Launches Mall, An Online Destination for Video Games Tweet Xsolla, a global video game commerce company, has announced a new online destination called Xsolla Mall. This platform allows video games to host multiple landing pages where players can access exclusive in-game items, game discounts, and premium experiences directly from developers and publishers or via campaigns with content creators and payment providers. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918634675/en/ Xsolla Mall (Graphic: Business Wire) Developers can showcase and monetize content from their games on a specific branded landing page within the platform, even the entirety of a game. There is already a growing library of cloud games accessible through the Xsolla Mall, supported by the Xsolla Cloud Gaming solution. Xsolla Mall also merges video game content and the convenience of multiple local payment methods with the power of content creators and influencers into one cost-effective platform, providing a wide range of generating incremental revenue for games. Xsolla Mall prvides developers and publishers with a new distribution channel, reducing overall customer acquisition and retention costs, growing brand awareness, increasing player engagement, and generating more profit for their business. "Xsolla Mall unlocks a new direct-to-consumer distribution channel for delivering games and in-game content on the web," said Chris Hewish, CEO of Xsolla. "We aim to help developers tackle current market challenges like the high cost of acquiring and retaining players, high distribution fees, and increasing the number of paying players so they can earn and keep more of the profits from the sale of their games and in-game content. Xsolla Mall perfectly aligns with our mission to bolster the gaming community by providing developers, influencers, and players with a safe, practical, and engaging platform." For more information about Xsolla Mall, please visit: https://xsolla.pro/xsolla-mall About Xsolla Xsolla is a global video game commerce company with a robust and powerful set of tools and services designed specifically for the video game industry. Since its founding in 2005, Xsolla has helped thousands of game developers and publishers of all sizes fund, market, launch and monetize their games globally and across multiple platforms. As an innovative leader in game commerce, Xsolla's mission is to solve the inherent complexities of global distribution, marketing, and monetization to help our partners reach more geographies, generate more revenue and create relationships with gamers worldwide. Headquartered and incorporated in Los Angeles, California, with offices in Berlin, Seoul, Beijing, Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo and cities around the world, Xsolla supports major gaming titles like Valve, Twitch, Roblox, Ubisoft, Epic Games, Take-Two, KRAFTON, Nexters, NetEase, Playstudios, Playrix, miHoYo, and more. For additional information and to learn more, please visit: xsolla.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918634675/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] dynaCERT's HydraGEN Technology to be Featured by the City of Ottawa Fleet Services Expo Tweet dynaCERT Inc. (TSX: DYA) (OTCQX: DYFSF) (FRA: DMJ) ("dynaCERT" or the "Company") is honoured to announce that is has been invited by the City of Ottawa (Canada) to the City's Fleet Services Expo to be held on September 20, 2023 at the Swansea Facility located at 2799 Swansea Crescent in Ottawa. Ottawa's Fleet Services Expo will feature dynaCERT's HydraGEN Technology, a proprietary Carbon Emissions Reduction Technology that is designed to reduce fuel consumption and reduce carbon emissions in diesel engines used by fleet vehicles deployed throughout Ottawa and the world. The City of Ottawa's Fleet Services Expo will prominently feature, for its first time ever, dynaCERT's HydraGEN Technology mounted and fully operational on a Company-Owned Mercedes Sprinter Van used by dynaCERT to service installations on fleet vehicles throughout the Province of Ontario. With its HydraGEN Technology, dynaCERT is helping its clients save money, reduce pollution and decarbonize fleets, while helping build a prosperous net-zero economy for generations to come in Ottawa and beyond. The dynaCERT Fleet Services Expo Team dynaCERT's Fleet Services Expo Team is spearheaded by Ed Cordeiro, Director of Sales, Americas, and co-managed by senior green technology executives, Jamie MacDonald, President of Mobile Emissions Testing Inc. and Chris Persaud, Field Service Technician dynaCERT. For further information and assistance regarding the dynaCERT Fleet Services Expo Team and dynaCERT's HydraGEN Carbon Emission Reduction Technology line of commercial products, please contact: Ed Cordeiro Director of Sales, Americas dynaCERT Inc. 1-647-462-6667 [email protected] Jamie MacDonald President Mobile Emissions Testing Inc. 1-613-229-9533 [email protected] Chris Persaud Field Service Technician dynaCERT Inc. 1-416-766-9691 [email protected] dynaCERT's Participation in the Ottawa Fleet Services Expo dynaCERT's Participation in the Ottawa Fleet Services Expo is seen by the Company to be an important opportunity to feature the Company's line-up of advanced Hydrogen-On-Demand commercially available technology which is designed to reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHGs) caused by diesel engines used in fleets of vehicles. dynaCERT supports local urban government initiatives that create jobs while fighting climate change and driving down costs for users of the Company's HydraGEN Technology. dynaCERT has received the Smart Sustainable Company Rating Seal after a rigorous analysis of prominent adjudicators. This honourable distinction of dynaCERT and its HydraGEN Technology as it applies to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and United Nations Global Compact Principles, has been evaluated as "high", the highest global ranking in its category. Jamie MacDonald, President of Mobile Emissions Testing Inc., stated, "As Dealer authorized by dynaCERT, Mobile Emissions Testing Inc. has many years of practical experience in the marketing, sales and installations of dynaCERT's HydraGEN Technology, our selected Canadian leading technology designed to reduce costs and carbon emissions in diesel engines. Our expertise in diesel emissions, serving Ottawa and surrounding regions throughout Ontario, combined with our long-standing and close relationship with dynaCERT, provides to commercial and government fleet operators the long standing experience with the confidence of excellence of service and reliable advice in the imperative quest to comply with goals to reduce carbon emissions." Ed Cordeiro, Director of Sales, Americas of dynaCERT, stated, "Businesses in Ottawa and in the Province of Ontario are adopting innovative and efficient technologies to help drive down costs and pollution at the same time. In the transportation sector, which accounts for one-quarter of Canada's emissions, the City of Ottawa is continuing to help businesses reduce their emissions, including by hosting the Ottawa Fleet Services Expo. City road vehicles are a key contributor to pollution in Canada. Such initiatives as the Ottawa Fleet Services Expo are a great venue to motivate fleets to adopt cleaner options to build a more environmentally friendly transportation system for urban Canadians. dynaCERT's HydraGEN Technology is designed to reduce pollution on our roads and support a cleaner transportation system that benefits all Canadians." About dynaCERT Inc. dynaCERT Inc. manufactures and distributes Carbon Emission Reduction Technology along with its proprietary HydraLytica Telematics, a means of monitoring fuel consumption and calculating GHG emissions savings designed for the tracking of possible future Carbon Credits for use with internal combustion engines. As part of the growing global hydrogen economy, our patented technology creates hydrogen and oxygen on-demand through a unique electrolysis system and supplies these gases through the air intake to enhance combustion, which has shown to lower carbon emissions and improve fuel efficiency. Our technology is designed for use with many types and sizes of diesel engines used in on-road vehicles, reefer trailers, off-road construction, power generation, mining and forestry equipment. Website: www.dynaCERT.com. READER ADVISORY Except for statements of historical fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. 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 of 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. In particular, forward-looking information in this press release includes, but is not limited to, the City of Ottawa and the Fleet Services Expo, which cannot be independently verified by the Company. 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: uncertainty as to whether our strategies and business plans will yield the expected benefits; availability and cost of capital; the ability to identify and develop and achieve commercial success for new products and technologies; the level of expenditures necessary to maintain and improve the quality of products and services; changes in technology and changes in laws and regulations; the uncertainty of the emerging hydrogen economy; including the hydrogen economy moving at a pace not anticipated; our ability to secure and maintain strategic relationships and distribution agreements; and the other risk factors disclosed under our profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. 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. Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the release. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918124207/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] Zhao Dong Attends UNGC Board Meeting Tweet XIAMEN, China, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On September 17 (GMT-5), during the UN General Assembly Week and SDG Summit, Zhao Dong, Chairman and Party Secretary of Xiamen Airlines, as the only Chinese board member of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), was invited to attend the UNGC board meeting to provide strategic and policy advice on behalf of the Chinese business community. The meeting was attended by the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, and presided over by the Assistant UN Secretary-General and CEO & Executive Director of UNGC, Sanda Ojiambo. At the meeting, Sanda Ojiambo introduced the new version of United Nations Global Compact 2024-2025 Strategy Extension, which aims to consolidate the achievements made from 2021 to 2023, and accelerate corporate sustainability and principles-based business actions on track to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through five priorities: ambitious, accoutable companies, enabling environments, measurable impact in prioritized, thematic areas, regionalization and localization of UNGC portfolio and partnerships, and investing in our digital transformation. Zhao gave a positive comment on the new strategy, and stressed the importance of continuing to promote the Africa strategy and China strategy in the new stage. He hoped that the UNGC would integrate the priorities of the host countries and the United Nations through its networks around the globe, ad expand cooperation with enterprises and stakeholders from China and other countries to benefit the world. Zhao also introduced how Xiamen Airlines promoted "Initiative of Bamboo as a Substitute for Plastic" to improve the ecological environment and boost green economy. Since 2019, Xiamen Airlines has gradually replaced 88 plastic-related items, and changed paper cups, lunch boxes, snack bags and other items on the plane into supplies made of bamboo pulp, reducing plastic waste by nearly 1,547 tons every year and saving 84,245 trees of 20 years old. Assuming an average of 33.3 trees are planted per acre of land, it is equivalent to an increase of more than 2,530 acres of trees a year. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized that according to the mid-term evaluation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development this year, only 15% of SDGs indicators are expected to be achieved; nearly 48% of SDGs are off track, and about 37% are stagnant or regressing. In that case, UNGC can play a unique role in motivating enterprises to accelerate SDGs actions and help them better respond to challenges. Given the challenges of net-zero emission, Zhao said that in order to achieve net zero emissions in the civil aviation industry, which accounts for about 3% of global carbon emissions, the key is to make disruptive breakthroughs on the technologies of aircraft and engine to meet the needs for using clean energy. He suggested that the United Nations should focus on high-carbon emission industries in the future and carry out effective technical cooperation. As for promoting SDGs-aligned investment, Zhao advised that the UNGC can raise capital for SDGs with the help of multilateral development banks, especially the New Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank from the Global South, to fill the SDGs funding gap. The UNGC is currently the world's largest and most influential organization aiming to promote corporate social responsibility and sustainable development. As of now, it has more than 23,000 corporate members from 170 countries, including 875 Chinese corporate members. The board of UNGC is an important part of the UNGC governance structure. It is chaired by the UN Secretary-General and has a total of 25 members, including 10 from the global business community. Zhao is the third Chinese member. The first one is Fu Chengyu, the former chairman and Party Secretary of Sinopec Group, and the second one is Ren Hongbin, a member of the 20th Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and former deputy director of the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council. In the future, Zhao will fulfill his responsibility as a UNGC board member, actively participate in UNGC affairs, and further unify the concepts of "Global Development Initiative" and "A Community of Shared Future for Mankind" with UNGC's "Sustainable Development Goals" and "Ten Principles", share China stories and speak up for Chinese enterprises. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/zhao-dong-attends-ungc-board-meeting-301930342.html SOURCE Xiamen Airlines [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] Corelight Expands Partnership with Mandiant to Further Strategic Efforts to Protect and Defend Customers Worldwide Tweet Corelight is selected to provide industry leading network detection and response technology for Mandiant and Google Cloud Security solutions and services SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Corelight, the leader in open network detection and response (NDR), today announced a critical update to their mission-focused, strategic partnership with Mandiant (now part of Google Cloud), the recognized leader in dynamic cyber defense, threat intelligence and incident response services. Corelight will provide its industry leading Open NDR technology to support a range of Google Cloud + Mandiant platforms Under the amplified partnership, Corelight will provide its industry leading Open NDR technology to support a range of Google Cloud and Mandant platforms and solutions, including Mandiant Managed Defense, further integrated efforts with Chronicle Security Operations, and additionally, Mandiant Consulting will have the ability to deploy Corelight technology within its Incident Response and Professional Service engagements to enhance visibility and accelerate investigations. "I'm excited to support our strengthened partnership with Corelight," said Marshall Heilman, CTO of Mandiant. "Corelight's products are based on battle-tested open source technology deployed in some of the world's most critical environments. Their detection and network analytics capabilities will enable our Managed Defense and Incident Response businesses to identify and resolve incidents faster and more accurately. In addition, Corelight's integration across our Chronicle SecOps suite helps our customers maximize the value from our mission-focused organizations, with the incorporation of streamlined detections and solutions that are budget friendly for organizations of all sizes." Corelight continues to deliver superior, next-generation NDR capabilities through co-delivered solutions and technologies with both Mandiant and the Chronicle SecOps suite. By harnessing the power of the triangulated products and services, with the power of historical Mandiant telemetry, mutual customers across private and public sectors will have a cyber defense unlike other NDR providers that have been enabled to execute and bring to the industry. Brian Dye, CEO of Corelight, added: "It's a great honor to be selected as a strategic NDR partner by Mandiant and Google Cloud, organizations that command the highest respect within the security community. We look forward to helping joint customers find and disrupt attacks more quickly and accurately, and to extending the partnership in new ways as Google's security offerings continue to evolve." About Corelight Corelight transforms network and cloud activity into evidence that security teams use to proactively hunt for threats, accelerate response to incidents, gain complete network visibility and create powerful analytics. Corelight's global customers include Global 2000 companies, major government agencies, and large research universities. Based in San Francisco, Corelight is an open-core security company founded by the creators of Zeek, the widely-used network security technology. For more information, visit https://corelight.com or follow @corelight_inc. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/corelight-expands-partnership-with-mandiant-to-further-strategic-efforts-to-protect-and-defend-customers-worldwide-301929618.html SOURCE Corelight, Inc. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] The 20th China-ASEAN Expo is being held in China's Nanning. Over the past 20 years, the expo has been a key platform to promote and facilitate the flow of goods between China and ASEAN. Produced by Xinhua Global Service [September 18, 2023] ORACLE FINANCIAL ANALYST MEETING TO BE HELD September 21, 2023 AUSTIN, Texas, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Oracle (NYSE: ORCL) today announced that it will hold its Financial Analyst Meeting at Oracle CloudWorld, Thursday, September 21, 2023. Oracle's Financial Analyst Meeting will be live webcast at 11:30 a.m. Central Time via the Investor Relations homepage at www.oracle.com/investor. About Oracle Oracle offers integrated suites of applications plus secure, autonomous infrastructure in the Oracle Cloud. For more information about Oracle (NYSE: ORCL), please visit us at www.oracle.com. Trademarks Oracle, Java, MySQL and NetSuite are registered trademarks of Oracle Corporation. NetSuite was the first cloud companyushering in the new era of cloud computing. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/oracle-financial-analyst-meeting-to-be-held-september-21-2023-301929610.html SOURCE Oracle [September 18, 2023] Suffolk Technologies BOOST 4 Cohort Selected to Address Industry Challenges Tweet Suffolk Technologies, the venture investment affiliate of Suffolk Construction, is excited to announce the seven startups selected to participate in its fourth annual BOOST program. BOOST is an intense six-week business accelerator that ignites growth and equips pioneering built environment startups with the right tools and connections to transform the industry. A team of mentors comprised of Suffolk leaders and strategic partners who work along the industry value chain will guide each startup during the program, offering exposure to potential customers, pilot opportunities, and investors. This announcement comes just two months after Suffolk Technologies announced the close of its $110 million inaugural fund. The 18 past participants have gone on to raise more than $375 million and many received follow-on investment from Suffolk Technologies. BOOST participants are three times more likely to receive follow-on investment from Suffolk Technologies than at other U.S. based accelerator programs that offer follow-on funding, according to data from the 2022 GAN report which represents 25 U.S. accelerator programs. Many of the participants have piloted their technology on Suffolk jobsites across the country. Several of this year's participants are already in the early stages of pursuing pilot projects with Suffolk. "Our largest applicant pool on record validates BOOST as a one-of-a-kind built world technology program, where industry expertise and collaboration meet technological curiosity and innovation," said Parker Mundt, Vice President of Platform, Suffolk Technologies. "Between the extremely talented, driven founders and our industry-leading partners, the BOOST program is positioned to influence and deliver transformational advances to the AEC industry." The BOOST program has grown significantly, receiving over 580 applications in its four years. BOOST received 208 applications this year, an increase of nearly 150% from the program's inception in 2020 when it received 85 applications. Applicants came from 27 countries and represent a wide variety of domains, with a strong showing across six key themes including artificial intelligence for risk mitigation, supply chain visibility and efficiency, sustainability compliance and reporting, field-focused data and digitization, design optimization, and improving workforce productivity. From this highly competitive pool of applicants, the following seven finalists were chosen to participate in the program: Agorus: a streamlined custom home building process powered by software and robotics. Emidat: a climate intelligence platform for construction that provides AI-powered generation and distribution of environmental product declarations (EPDs) for building material manufacturers. Exodigo: a revolutionary non-intrusive subsurface imaging platform providing a digital geolocated 3D map of buried assets. Hammr: an all-in-one platform for construction companies to manage their back office. KayaPay: a next generation AI powered Operating System for construction procurement with embedded financing. Sitelink: an AR-powered collaboration platform allowing project teams to share information and communicate with 3D visual context. Trunk Tools: a platform that addresses the widespread skilled labor shortage in construction by aligning incentives. These startups were chosen through a thorough application, interview, and vetting process led by Suffolk Technologies and supported by the program's 22 operating partners, spanning different disciplines in construction and real estate. The BOOST 4 cohort companies demonstrated strong teams to solve their chosen problems, are pursuing significant market opportunities, and articulated clear goals to achieve during the BOOST program. "The construction industry has reached an inflection point that requires contractors to innovate and become more efficient and productive than ever. Suffolk is proud to be a pioneer leading the effort to redefine the built world," said John Fish, Chairman and CEO of Suffolk. "Suffolk Technologies' BOOST program provides an unparalleled experience to the brightest entrepreneurs and industry minds committed to addressing the most significant challenges facing our industry today. We look forward to continuing to support these technology companies throughout their BOOST journey and beyond as they set out to change the industry and make a lasting positive impact on the built environment." Throughout the six weeks of the program, startups will gain access to Suffolk jobsites and exposure to project teams and operating partners. The program will primarily run virtually, culminating with two-days in Boston that will include jobsite visits, networking events, and a Demo Day that will attract over 200 industry leaders from across the country. "The AEC industry is perfect for programs like BOOST that combine differing perspectives across multiple stakeholders in the industry to drive deep-rooted value and productivity into our workforce," said Robert Otani, Senior Principal and Chief Technology Officer at Thornton Tomasetti. BOOST 4 programming is set to begin on September 25th, 2023 (the application process is closed for 2023). Demo Day is scheduled for November 9th, 2023. About Suffolk Technologies Suffolk Technologies is the venture capital investment arm of innovative construction enterprise Suffolk. Suffolk Technologies invests in early and growth-stage startups transforming the built world across real estate and development, architecture, engineering and construction, property management, and smart cities. Leveraging Suffolk's expertise and partner networks, Suffolk Technologies partners with visionary founders to accelerate industry-wide adoption of breakthrough innovations ranging from pre-product to scaled go-to-market. Suffolk Technologies is ranked by AGC as the "#1 Most Active Construction Tech Investor" from 2018-2022. For more information about Suffolk Technologies strategy and investments, visit Suffolk-Tech.com. About Suffolk Suffolk is a national enterprise that builds, innovates and invests. Suffolk is an end-to-end business that provides value throughout the entire project lifecycle by leveraging its core construction management services with vertical service lines that include real estate capital investment, design, self-perform construction services, technology start-up investment (Suffolk Technologies) and innovation research/development. Suffolk - America's Contractor - is a national company with more than $5.0 billion in annual revenue, 2,600 employees, and main offices in Boston (headquarters), New York City, Miami, West Palm Beach, Tampa, Estero, Dallas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego. Suffolk manages some of the most complex, sophisticated projects in the country, serving clients in every major industry sector, including healthcare, life sciences, education, gaming, transportation/aviation, government, mission critical and commercial. Suffolk is privately held and is led by founder, chairman and CEO John Fish. Suffolk is ranked #8 on ENR's list of "Top CM-at-Risk Contractors." For more information, visit www.suffolk.com and follow Suffolk on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918772313/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] Dynex Capital, Inc. Welcomes New Head of Strategy and Research, Acquires Contingent Macro's Proprietary Models and Data Library Tweet Dynex Capital, Inc. (NYSE: DX) announced a significant addition to its leadership team. Terrence ("T.J.") Connelly, a seasoned expert in global economics, fixed-income investing, and financial modeling has joined Dynex to spearhead its strategic initiatives and research efforts. With an outstanding track record in the asset management industry, Connelly brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Dynex. Prior to joining Dynex, he was the Founder and Head of Research at Contingent Macro Advisors, where he was instrumental in developing innovative models and proprietary solutions, advising, and managing assets for some of the largest asset managers in the world. In a strategic move to bolster its position as a market leader, Dynex has also acquired the cutting-edge models and proprietary data developed by Contingent Macro under Connelly's leadership. These assets will play a pivotal role in leveraging evolving technologies to enhance Dynex's capabilities and enable the company to maintain its investment edge and industry-leading risk management in complex global markets. Commenting on this development, Byron L. Boston, the Company's Chief Executive Officer of Dynex, said, "We are thrilled to welcome T.J. to our team. His exceptional expertise and the cquisition of Contingent Macro's models and proprietary data represent a significant step forward for Dynex. We are committed to delivering outstanding results for our investors, and this strategic move aligns perfectly with our goals." Connelly also expressed enthusiasm about joining Dynex and the potential for innovation, saying, "I am honored to be part of the Dynex team, an outstanding organization committed to excellence. It is also a joy to be reunited with Byron and Smriti, whose leadership I've admired for over 25 years. With the acquisition of Contingent Macro's assets, we have the opportunity to drive innovation and deliver even greater value to our investors." About Dynex Capital Dynex Capital, Inc. is a financial services company committed to ethical stewardship of stakeholders' capital; employing comprehensive risk management and disciplined capital allocation to generate dividend income and long-term total returns through the diversified financing of real estate assets in the United States. Dynex operates as a REIT and is internally managed to maximize stakeholder alignment. Additional information about Dynex Capital, Inc. is available at www.dynexcapital.com. Forward Looking Statement "Safe Harbor" Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: Statements in this press release regarding the business of Dynex Capital, Inc. that are not historical facts are "forward-looking statements" that involve risks and uncertainties. For a discussion of these risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements, see "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918086781/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] Activate Welcomes Cyrus Wadia as New Chief Executive Officer Tweet Activate, a leader in science innovation, is excited to announce that Cyrus Wadia has been appointed as the new chief executive officer, effective October 16, 2023. Activate transforms scientists into high-impact entrepreneurs through the Activate Fellowship, a two-year immersive experience that equips science entrepreneurs with the skills, networks, infrastructure, and funding they need to quickly and effectively bring their groundbreaking research to market. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918474271/en/ Activate CEO Cyrus Wadia (Photo: Business Wire) "Wadia personifies so much of what Activate is about," says Activate's founder and former CEO, Ilan Gur, who now heads ARIA, the UK's multibillion-dollar innovation agency. "He is impact-driven, entrepreneurial, and cares deeply about people, family, and community. He's one of the few people on the planet that I'd be proud and excited to have lead the next phase of what we started." Leveraging his executive experience in both the public and private sectors, Wadia will oversee Activate's expansion and help the organization deliver impact at scale. Most recently, he was director of worldwide product sustainability at Amazon, responsible for raising sustainability standards in retail, including the launch of Amazon's first sustainable shopping program. Previously, Wadia was vice president of sustainable business & innovation at Nike. He also served in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy under President Barack Obama as assistant director of clean energy and materias R&D, responsible for mobilizing over $1 billion toward cutting-edge materials science and innovation. As a scientist himself with an M.S. in chemical engineering from MIT and a Ph.D. in energy and resources from UC Berkeley, Wadia knows firsthand the challenges that scientists face when trying to apply their research. "I'm thrilled to join this incredible team at such an exciting moment for the organization. Because of Activate, scientists are designing new products, accelerating the creation of new businesses, and becoming leaders who will transform our future," Wadia said. "I look forward to building on this momentum to expand the role science leadership plays in solving society's most pressing issues." In just eight years, Activate has grown from a team of four to nearly 50, established five communities across the country, created a thriving national science innovation network, supported over 188 fellows, and catalyzed 145 science-based startups that have raised nearly $1.4 billion collectively and created over 1,900 jobs. Most importantly, Activate Fellows have emerged as global leaders, accelerating the invention and deployment of solutions to the world's most pressing problems. "Activate has transformed into one of the most impactful science innovation communities in the world in less than a decade," says Activate board chair Liesl Schindler. "The extraordinary people and culture of Activate give us nothing but confidence as we transition into the organization's next phase of growth-with Cyrus Wadia now at the helm." Activate interim CEO Todd Johnson, who stepped into the role to help Activate grow over the past year, will officially step down and return to his role on Activate's board of directors on October 15. ABOUT ACTIVATE: Founded in 2015, Activate empowers scientists to reinvent the world by launching startups to address climate change and other global challenges. Working between government, philanthropy, universities, and the private sector, Activate transforms scientists into high-impact entrepreneurs through the Activate Fellowship, a two-year immersive experience that equips science entrepreneurs with the skills, networks, infrastructure, and funding they need to quickly and effectively bring their groundbreaking research to market. Activate is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and does not charge any fee or equity for fellows to participate. Activate's entrepreneurial fellowship model originated at Cyclotron Road, the first U.S. Department of Energy Lab Embedded Entrepreneurship Program (LEEP) started at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, the founding Activate partner. Activate supports fellows in communities across the United States: Activate Berkeley, Activate Boston, Activate New York, Activate Houston, and Activate Anywhere. Learn more at Activate.org. NOTES FOR EDITORS: For media requests, contact Chris Thomas, VP, Strategic Communications and Engagement, [email protected] Find out more information about Activate's activities at Climate Week NYC by visiting Activate's Climate Week event page. For more information about how to apply for the Activate Fellowship, visit Activate.org/apply. For occasional updates about Activate, sign up for our newsletter. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918474271/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] Arcadia Earth Scales Its Environmental Storytelling Platform With Extended Reality Experiences Tweet Arcadia Earth, the next-generation environmental storytelling exhibition, announces the launch of its XR platforms. Introducing its augmented reality educational app and virtual reality metaverse, Arcadia Earth is the first multi-channel storytelling platform of its kind to offer a powerful and intimately personal exploration of the plight of our planet through physical and virtual experiences. Their platforms reimagine the way we address the most pressing environmental issues of our time through immersive storytelling and a focus on training and education. "Arcadia was inspired by the idea to change the way we address climate change," says founder and experiential artist Valentino Vettori. "It is designed as a vessel for innovative businesses, educational organizations, and impact-driven nonprofits to drive the changes we need to make to protect the future of our planet. I believe in the power of immersive technology to shift mass consciousness around these issues, strengthened by developments in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cloud computing." Virtual Reality Metaverse | At the TED2023: Possibility Conference in Vancouver, Arcadia Earth offered a first look at their virtual reality multiverse. A first-of-its-kind immersive world will serve as an educational and change-making platform around ecological issues featuring environments created in collaboration with Robert Downey Jr.'s Footprint Coalition, Kiss the Ground, and Only One. The metaverse will also invite mission-aligned organizations and businesses to train their teams on their CSR initiatives, engage clients through immersive tools and environments, and host carbon-neutral events. As part of their commitment to being a greater force for good in the world and ou planet, MetLife is supporting the distribution of the platform to students in under-resourced communities and democratizing access to technology. Augmented Reality Application | Arcadia Earth is also bringing environmental education into the classroom with the launch of their augmented reality app, Arcadia Earth EDU, created in partnership with NYC Media Lab and available through Verizon Innovative Learning HQ, a free online education portal available to all K-12 educators nationwide. The app is designed as a tool to engage educators and students around environmental issues through innovative mediums. Educators are able to build their own ecosystems and have students interact with the environments they create, journeying through Earth's immersive landscapes and exploring how to protect the planet's future. NYC Media Lab, an NYU Tandon center dedicated to driving innovation in media and technology, will facilitate the distribution of Arcadia Earth EDU to schools through the Department of Education, cultural centers, and museums. Wearable XR Technology | Introducing its initial iteration last year at its physical exhibit in New York, Arcadia Earth was also the first immersive environmental art exhibit to use HoloLens - Microsoft's mixed reality headset that enables users to introduce interactive holograms into their real-world experience. Users activate the exhibit around them by looking in the direction of the holograms they see, bringing them to life and unlocking hidden gems, environmental facts, and lifelike animations. Introducing mixed reality wearable devices brings exciting possibilities to the world of Arcadia Earth with the potential to endlessly reimagine the experience. Unlike permanent physical installations, the holograms can be updated at any time with new information, interactive animations, or entirely recreated journeys for the visitor. The potential for refreshing exhibits becomes limitless. Learn more about Arcadia Earth's offerings at arcadia.earth and link to VR metaverse images here. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918664021/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] MYEG PARTNERS CHINA'S BEITOU IT INNOVATION TO SHOWCASE DIGITAL IDENTITY CREDENTIALS SERVICE ON THE ZETRIX BLOCKCHAIN Tweet Service To Provide Secure Method to Verify Authenticity of Credentials Digitally and Help Eliminate Document Fraud PETALING JAYA, Malaysia, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MY E.G. Services Berhad ("MYEG") and China's state-owned Guangxi Beitou IT Innovation Technology Investment Group Co., Ltd. ("Beitou IT Innovation") has entered into a collaboration to leverage on the Zetrix blockchain to offer cross-border credentials verification services, paving the way for the digitalisation of vital documents, including major government-issued identity credentials. Harnessing the power of the blockchain, the partners conducted a public demonstration of an application that enables the issuance of digital driving licences as verifiable credentials, starting with Chinese nationals. The demonstration was held at the China-ASEAN Expo on 16-20 September in Nanning, capital city of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Through the application, holders of Chinese-issued driving licences would be able to apply online to obtain a digitalised version of their documents in the form of a Verified Credential stored on the Zetrix blockchain wallet. The availability of a verifiable digital version of driving licences would represent significant convenience for holders as their credentials could be presented anywhere in the world, not only to prove their driving competence, but as confirmation of their identities. Chairman of Beitou IT Innovation Mr. Shuiping Lai said: "The collaboration with MYEG is a key step of our ASEAN business development. The digital cross-border credential verification platform based on the international blockchain infrastructure is a very meaningful attempt for both MYEG and Beitou IT Innovation's professional digital teams. By leveraging the features of blockchain such as immutability and data security, this platform is able to provide the convenience to the cross-border communications of China-ASEAN people under the premise of legal complince." TS Wong, founder and Group Managing Director of MYEG added: "We continue to build real-world Web3 applications leveraging on its unique functionality of ensuring the authenticity of digitised documents, including identity credentials and trade documents. Such applications will be the driver to bring 1 billion users to Web3." Digitalisation of the driving licence on the blockchain would enable any authorised third party anytime and anywhere to confirm the authenticity of the credentials as genuinely-issued by the respective authorised authority. As the unique mechanism of the blockchain secures data against tampering and falsification, parties seeking to verify credentials can rest assured that unlike physical documents which may be susceptible to forgery, counterfeiting and other forms of fraudulent activities, digital credentials on the blockchain are trustworthy, genuine, and verifiable in real-time. Such features are particularly critical for credentials like driving licences which are commonly used in many jurisdictions worldwide as a secondary of identity documentation, including as part of mandatory Know Your Customer ("KYC") processes. Beyond driving licences, the collaboration between MYEG and Beitou IT Innovation intends to progressively enable the digitalisation and verification, on the blockchain, of all types of documents that are presently still available only in physical form and where authenticity and accuracy are of critical importance. In doing so, the partners aim to provide a much-needed solution to simplify and expedite customer onboarding, transactional or service delivery processes through digitalisation, without compromising on safety and security, whilst contributing towards eliminating incidents of document fraud and falsification. The services to be offered through the collaboration leverages on the cross-border capabilities of Zetrix, a Layer-1 blockchain developed by MYEG that also hosts the international supernode of China's national Xinghuo Blockchain Infrastructure and Facility, thus enabling mutual cross-border issuance and verification of Verificable Credentials on Zetrix and Xinghuo International. Established in October 2020, Beitou IT Innovation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Guangxi Beibu Gulf Investment Group Co., Ltd, which is listed as one of China's Top 500 enterprises, focuses on spearheading digital industry development. Recognized as a national scientific and technological innovation demonstration enterprise, Beitou IT Innovation undertakes the transfer and implementation of emerging IT technologies in Guangxi. It also manages the operations of the China-ASEAN Information Port Beitou Digital Technology Park. This latest initiative aims to further solidify MYEG's position as a pioneering enabler and innovator in the digitalisation of cross-border economic and trade processes, especially between China and the rest of the world. In March, MYEG signed an agreement with East Logistic-Link Co., Ltd, a wholly-owned agency of the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China ("GACC"), to jointly provide a full suite of cross-border trade facilitation services that include certificates of origin on Zetrix. The service, known as ZTrade, is being deployed in Malaysia and the Philippines, with efforts underway for its expansion into other nations across ASEAN and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership region. About Zetrix Zetrix is a layer-1 public blockchain that facilitates smart contracts and delivers privacy, security and scalability. Zetrix's cryptographic infrastructure can be introduced to multiple industries to connect governments, businesses and their citizens to a global blockchain-based economy. Developed by MY E.G. Services Bhd, the cross-border and cross-chain integration with China enables Zetrix to serve as a blockchain gateway that facilitates global trade by deploying critical building blocks for Web3 services such as Blockchain-based Identifiers (BID) and Verifiable Credentials (VC). About MY E.G. Services Bhd ("MYEG") MYEG is Malaysia's premier digital services company. Having commenced operations in 2000 as the flagship e-government services provider, MYEG continues to play a leading role in driving technological change in the region, bringing a diverse and complete range of innovations spanning the online delivery of major government services to a variety of commercial offerings in the areas of immigration, automotive, healthcare and financial services, among others. Committed to staying firmly at the forefront of the region's digital revolution, MYEG has embraced the potential of blockchain technology to enhance all aspects of life and is actively pioneering its adoption across its main markets. MYEG has operations in key regional markets such as the Philippines and Indonesia. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/myeg-partners-chinas-beitou-it-innovation-to-showcase-digital-identity-credentials-service-on-the-zetrix-blockchain-301930448.html SOURCE MYEG; Zetrix [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] R&R Wealth Management Selects Commonwealth for Sophisticated Support Tweet Commonwealth Financial Network, a national firm dedicated to providing financial advisors with holistic, integrated business solutions, announces that R&R Wealth Management (R&R Wealth) of Waukesha, Wisconsin, has joined its network of independent advisors. Formerly affiliated with Avantax Investment Services, vice presidents of wealth management and senior financial advisors Robert Holton and Tom Driscoll, CPFA, CLTC, and their team of six bring with them nearly $223 million in assets under advisement. R&R Wealth delivers holistic planning services to business owners, corporate executives, and high-net-worth families looking to build and preserve generational wealth, including investment management, financial planning, and complex life insurance solutions. The firm also specializes in providing businesses with employee-sponsored retirement plan support. For more information, visit https://www.myknowledgeadvisor.com. "We took a strategic look at who our RIA/broker/dealer was and who gave us the best opportunity to grow going forward," shared Holton. "We want to build our business to $1 billion in assets over the next four years, and that growth trajectory needs a partner who can support our goals. We feel strongly that Commonwealth is the ideal partner as we grow both organically and through acquisitions, and it will help us become the premier wealth maagement firm for business owners in Wisconsin." Holton continued, "R&R Wealth will leverage Commonwealth's sophisticated wealth planning resources, investment management support, and highly experienced retirement plan team, in addition to using its business solutions to bring aboard other advisory teams that share their vision, entrepreneurial spirit, and ambition to grow." In 2018, R&R Wealth came under the ownership umbrella of the Riesch family, who are longtime and prominent members of the Wisconsin business community. For over three generations, the Riesch family has successfully built R&R Insurance into a trusted and respected business insurance and employee benefits firm in the Midwest. Becca Hajjar, Commonwealth's managing principal and chief business development officer, said, "We are thrilled to welcome Robert, Tom, and the rest of the R&R Wealth team to Commonwealth. Over the years, we have worked tirelessly to create a culture that promotes the success of our advisors and fosters a high level of entrepreneurialism-R&R Wealth will bring its like-minded spirit to our community of independent advisors. More tangibly, we look forward to providing flexible financing, investment management, and retirement planning support to allow R&R Wealth to take the next step in the evolution of its firm." About Commonwealth Financial Network Commonwealth Financial Network, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser, provides financial advisors with holistic, integrated solutions that support business evolution, growth acceleration, and operational efficiency. J.D. Power ranks Commonwealth "#1 in Independent Advisor Satisfaction Among Financial Investment Firms, 10 Times in a Row." Privately held since 1979, the firm has headquarters in Waltham, Massachusetts, and San Diego, California. Learn more about how Commonwealth partners with more than 2,100 independent financial advisors overseeing more than $242.9 billion* in assets nationwide by visiting www.commonwealth.com. Commonwealth received the highest score among independent advisors in the J.D. Power 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2018?2023 U.S. Financial Advisor Satisfaction Studies. Presented on July 5, 2023, for December 2022 to April 2023, it is based on responses from 4,183 advisors employed by or affiliated with the firms included in the study. Not indicative of the firm's future performance. Your experience may vary. Study is independently conducted, and the participating firms do not pay to participate. Use of study results in promotional materials is subject to a license fee. Visit jdpower.com/awards for more details. * As of 12/31/2022 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918108980/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] Mark43 announces new partnership with the Berwyn (IL) Police Department to deliver a modern, mission-critical technology platform Tweet Mark43, the leading mission-critical public safety software company, today announced that it is partnering with the City of Berwyn (IL) to deploy its industry-leading cloud-native records management system (RMS), computer-aided dispatch (CAD), and analytics suite. The Berwyn Police Department is the first Illinois agency to use the entire Mark43 Public Safety Suite, leading the way for all of Illinois in deploying a comprehensive modern, cloud-native platform that will enhance the effectiveness of first responders and support the safety of the entire community. Berwyn was seeking a technology partner who was looking to the future and that's what they found in Mark43, due to its innovative and resilient platform. Berwyn was looking to move away from a legacy on-premise platform to a cloud-native solution that is scalable, more efficient, and aligns with the imperative of saving time on paperwork so officers can be present in the community. Michael D. Cimaglia, Chief of the Berwyn Police Department said, "Effective public safety depends on our first responders having the best-in-class modern technology, and that is why we are excited to partner with Mark43. This new system will make our officers more efficient, more effective, and ensure that less time is spent on duplicative administrative tasks at the end of their tour. We will also use the data collected from the Mark43 Public Safety Platform to drive decision-making and deliverables for our frontline officers, meeting our dual goal of serving the community while remaining accountable to them." Thomas Hayes, Chief of the Berwyn Fire Department said, "We are excited to have a modern CAD that we can trust. Mark43 technology will greatly improve the ability of our firefighters, paramedics, and EMT's to get to the exact location where they are needed in the shortest time possible. This is an exciting step forward for our department and our community." The Mark43 RMS is an intuitive records management data system that is easy for officers and staff to use. The technology that powers the Mark43 RMS enables faster report-wrting, integrated compliance standards, better case management, and a superior user experience that leads to enhanced work performance and job satisfaction. By providing officers with an easy-to-use platform, the administrative burden on officers will be reduced, freeing them to pursue more proactive policing, engage with the community, and address public safety challenges. At the same time, this platform will materially reduce the time officers spend on paperwork, giving them more time to spend in the field and getting back to the reason why they entered public safety - helping their community members and solving crime when it arises. This new partnership with Mark43 will also provide Berwyn with Mark43 CAD, which operates as a natural extension of the dispatcher, call taker, and in-field first responder during an emergency response. Berwyn telecommunicators, serving both the Berwyn Police Department and the Berwyn Fire Department, will use the system's functionality to pinpoint exact caller and responder locations and share critical, life-saving data with all nearby units to promote a highly collaborative public safety response. This enhances safety for emergency responders and ensures the right units are deployed. The cloud-native platform ensures superior data security controls due to Mark43's unwavering commitment to the highest levels of compliance and cybersecurity. In addition, Mark43's customer support and 24/7 steadfast assistance will alleviate IT maintenance pressures so Berwyn personnel can focus on other agency priorities. "New officers coming on the beat expect a police department that is looking toward the future and that has the technology that matches what they use in their personal lives," said Berwyn Police Chief Cimaglia. "To retain our new officers joining the ranks, we need to invest in a platform that is easy to use, promotes real time information sharing so they have the latest intelligence, and allows them to seamlessly do their job in the field. They want a police department that is ahead of the curve, and that is what this partnership with Mark43 brings." Matt Polega, Mark43 Cofounder and Head of External Affairs said, "The Berwyn Police Department and the Berwyn Emergency Telephone Safety Board so clearly prioritize the technology needs of their first responders and residents. They are paving the way for Illinois agencies since leading public safety agencies worldwide are moving to cloud-native systems to ensure resiliency, reliability, affordability and security. By working closely with the innovative leaders across Berwyn, we will deliver our modern technology solution that delivers meaningful impact for the Berwyn community. Having grown up in Berwyn's backyard, this partnership means a lot to me personally and professionally." About Mark43 Mark43 is the leading cloud-native public safety technology company. By delivering a modern, intuitive and mobile-first Records Management System, Computer-Aided Dispatch and Analytics platform, Mark43 empowers governments and their communities to improve the safety and quality of life for all. Working with more than 200 local, state and federal public safety agencies, Mark43 is transforming how first responders use technology to respond, engage and serve the community. Mark43 provides the tools, resources, expertise, and security foundation that public safety needs today, tomorrow, and beyond. For more information or to request a demo, visit www.mark43.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918078772/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] DEXIS Launches FDA 510 (k) Cleared ORTHOPANTOMOGRAPH OP 3D LX Featuring Multiple New Innovations Tweet QUAKERTOWN, Pa., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading innovator of dental imaging technologies, DEXIS, announces the launch of the next-generation OP 3D. Built on OP 3D technology, the OP 3D LX introduces expanded 3D diagnostic capabilities with: Larger field of view (FOV) options now up to 15(H) x 20(D) cm Seamless integration with AI-enabled DTX Studio Clinic software Improved patient positioning Enhanced image clarity Cloud-based service connectivity The next generation of DEXIS cone beam technology. "The OP 3D LX offers all the powerful features practices know and trust from our OP 3D line, with the addition of new innovations that provide expanded flexibility, improved workflow efficiencies, and enhanced diagnostic confidence," says Lori Clements, Vice President, Commercial, North America at DEXIS. "With the addition of OP 3D LX in their practice, doctors will be able to enhance their diagnosis, planning, and treatment offerings for a wide range of patients and diagnostic needs." DEXIS has brought together some of the most recognized CBCT brands in the industry, including Instrumentarium, SOREDEX, Cranex, Gendex and the well-known i-CAT. Over the last 15 years, DEXIS has worked with distributors to install more than 35,000 CBCT units in dental practices and continues to serve their customers with the evolving OP 3D product line. The OP 3D LX includes 2D and 3D imaging options that cover a full spectrum of dental extraoral needs, from endodontics to complex surgical cases and everything in between. The OP 3D LX offers flexible FOV options ranging from 5(H) x 5(D) cm up to 15(H) x 20(D) cm the largest FOV option on the DEXIS OP 3D platform to date. This functionality can capture the maxillofacial complex and large diagnostic areas with one non-stitched scan for efficient workflows. Other new intuitive features support a more fficient workflow and seamless integration with the award-winning DTX Studio Clinic software. The AI-assisted features in DTX Studio Clinic, such as MagicAssist, help with the completion of tedious tasks. This allows doctors to spend less time in the software and focus more time on their patients. Some of the AI features of this software integration include 3D X-ray landmark detection, tooth-centric workflows, correction of patient positioning, and annotation of mandibular nerve canals. The improved patient positioning and intuitive user interface features promote clinical confidence with every scan. The user interface in the OP 3D systems allows for anatomy visualization, vertical adjustments, and bi-directional scout modifications so that the clinical staff can capture only the structures of interest and reduce retakes. The new head support design provides options to scan the patient without interfering with the patient's soft tissue profile for orthodontic and surgical applications. OP 3D LX offers a noise reduction feature embedded into the system software. The enhanced EPNR (Edge Preserving Noise Reduction) minimizes artifacts producing clean, high-quality images that give clinicians detailed visibility in areas of interest. Lastly, The OP 3D LX now comes with cloud-based service connectivity, enabling remote access to system information for simplified installation, easier maintenance, and increased practice uptime. DEXIS stands behind its products. To help clinicians feel confident with their investment, DEXIS includes a 60-day satisfaction guaranteed program with each purchase as well as self-paced educational opportunities with a radiologist on reading CBCT scans. "The continual education and training provided after our purchase has helped my team become more confident with CBCT advantages," says Ravi S. Ramjit, DDS of Smile Institute Miami. Practices can begin ordering the new OP 3D LX on September 18, 2023. To learn more about the new DEXIS OP 3D LX, visit www.dexis.com. The OP 3D LX is not yet available in all regions. Contact your local DEXIS representative or preferred dealer partner for availability. About DEXIS DEXIS is a global leading brand in digital radiography for 70+ years. Today, DEXIS has brought together the most trusted brands in 3D imaging, intraoral scanning solutions, and diagnostic software to provide you with a complete digital diagnostic solution under a brand name. Our innovative award-winning technology enhances the way you diagnose, accelerates your workflow, and delivers simpler treatment paths with better patient outcomes. For more information, please visit https://www.dexis.com. About Envista Holdings Corporation Envista is a global family of more than 30 trusted dental brands, including DEXIS, Nobel Biocare, Ormco, and Kerr united by a shared purpose: to partner with professionals to improve lives. Envista helps its customers deliver the best possible patient care through industry-leading dental consumables, solutions, technology, and services. Our comprehensive portfolio, including dental implants and treatment options, orthodontics, and digital imaging technologies, covers a broad range of dentists' clinical needs for diagnosing, treating, and preventing dental conditions as well as improving the aesthetics of the human smile. With a foundation comprised of the proven Envista Business System (EBS) methodology, an experienced leadership team, and a strong culture grounded in continuous improvement, commitment to innovation, and deep customer focus, Envista is well equipped to meet the end-to-end needs of dental professionals worldwide. Envista is one of the largest global dental products companies, with significant market positions in some of the most attractive segments of the dental products industry. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dexis-launches-fda-510-k-cleared-orthopantomograph-op-3d-lx-featuring-multiple-new-innovations-301929565.html SOURCE DEXIS, LLC [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] Pennsylvania American Water Proudly Recognizes American Water Charitable Foundation 2023 Water and Environment Grantees Tweet The American Water Charitable Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization established by American Water, the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., recently announced five organizations in communities served by Pennsylvania American Water were awarded a total of $92,550 in Water and Environment grants. "Environmental leadership is a core value of our company, and we demonstrate this daily through our efforts to protect sources of drinking water and our continuous reinvestment in water and sewer system upgrades," said Pennsylvania American Water President Justin Ladner. "These grants provided by our charitable foundation to nonprofits in the communities we serve demonstrate our ongoing commitment to clean water, healthy communities, and educating our next generation about the importance of environmental stewardship." The Water and Environment grant is part of the American Water Charitable Foundation's Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program, focusing on three pillars of giving: Water, People and Communities. Below is a list of grantees throughout Pennsylvania. Delaware River Greenway Partnership (Bucks County): $10,000 to support the Yardley Volunteer Litter Clean Up, Tree Planting & Education event Hopwood Area Recreation Council (Fayette County): $10,100 to purchase and install a water fountain and bottle refill station in Hutchinson Park National Audubon Society (Montgomery County): $27,450 for the John James Audubon Center Riparian Restoration Project, which will engage diverse audiences in buffer restoration work to mitigate storm damage in Perkiomen Creek Pocono Environmental Education Center (Pike County): $30,000 for PEEC Into the Classroom, which will support programming, transport and supplies for 700+ students inside/outside of class to learn about environmental stewardship Rivers of Steel Heritage Corporation (Allegheny County): $15,000 to assist schools with costs to attend Rivers of Steel's Environmental Science Program "The American Water Charitable Foundation is pleased to partner with eligible nonprofit organizations across Pennsylvania American Water," said Carrie Williams, president, American Water Charitable Foundation. "Funding fr the Water and Environment grants focus on clean water, conservation, environmental education, climate variability, and water-based recreation projects." Learn more about Pennsylvania American Water's community impact, here. About American Water American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886, We Keep Life Flowing by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people across 14 regulated jurisdictions and 18 military installations. American Water's 6,500 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company's national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders. As one of the fastest growing utilities in the U.S., American Water expects to invest $30 to $34 billion in infrastructure repairs and replacement, system resiliency and regulated acquisitions over the next 10 years. The company has a long-standing history of executing its core operations, aligned with sustainable best practices, through its commitments to safety, affordability, customer service, protecting the environment, an inclusive workforce and strengthening communities. American Water has been recognized on the 2023 Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index for the fifth consecutive year, ranked 18th on Barron's 100 Most Sustainable U.S. Companies 2023 List, earned the U.S. Department of Homeland Security SAFETY Act designation and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense Excellence Award, among additional state, local and national recognitions. For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. About Pennsylvania American Water Pennsylvania American Water, a subsidiary of American Water is the largest investor-owned water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and wastewater services to approximately 2.3 million people. About American Water Charitable Foundation The American Water Charitable Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides a formal way to demonstrate the company's ongoing commitment to be a good neighbor, citizen, and contributor to the communities where American Water and its employees live, work and operate. For more information, visit amwater.com/awcf and follow the American Water Charitable Foundation on Facebook. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918576138/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Reboot Coding Institute (Reboot01), the first-of-its-kind on-campus coding institute in Bahrain, part of the 01Edu global network of coding schools, has announced a partnership with Benefit, the kingdoms leading fintech firm. The agreement marks a significant milestone and a step forward in Reboot01's mission to empower Bahraini students and build a pipeline of highly skilled digital talent for the kingdom's key sectors, in line with Bahrain's Economic Vision 2030. As Reboot Coding Institute's initial cohort reaches its final selection pool with over 200 students, its partnership with Benefit underscores their dedication to provide students with exceptional opportunities in the field of technology. Early access to top-tier talent Benefit joins a growing list of companies who have partnered with Reboot01 to obtain early access to top-tier talent from a highly-skilled pool of Bahraini developers suited to their specific needs. As part of the collaboration, Reboot01 students will participate in Benefit's Masaar Internship Programme, which will be tailored specifically for Reboot01 and take place at the company's renowned IT department. This programme aims to provide students with fundamental real-world experience and hands-on learning opportunities, laying the framework for future success in the technology sector. In a testament to Benefit's commitment to local talent, Reboot01 students will receive priority consideration for employment opportunities at Benefit. Furthermore, as part of this collaboration, Benefit will provide Reboot01 students with access to their test environment APIs and Sandbox, giving them a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge financial technology tools and systems that are being employed across the kingdom. Proactive support Yanal Jallad, Managing Director at Reboot01, commented: "We commend Benefit for their proactive support of Reboot01's mission, while securing early access to our graduates. This unique partnership includes a tailored internship programme for our students and access to Benefit's test environment and sandboxes, empowering our students to innovate, benefiting both our partner and their career journeys. Moreover, access to the test environment equips our students with invaluable skill sets for future success." Salah Alwadhi, Head of HR & Admin at Benefit, stated: This partnership not only allows us to offer students with real-world experience through our renowned Masaar Internship Programme, but it also demonstrates our commitment to promoting local talent and fostering innovation within the field. Mentorship Benefit employees will be visiting Reboot01's campus to engage in mentorship programmes, providing students with invaluable insights and advice from industry professionals. Additionally, practical projects and hackathons will be organised to tackle real-world challenges, stimulating creativity, strengthening problem-solving abilities as well as boosting inventive thinking and teamwork amongst Reboot01s students. The comprehensive two-year programme at Reboot01 cultivates expertise not only in generalised full-stack development but also in specialised branches such as Cloud Devops, Artificial Intelligence & Data Science and more. Reboot01 recently announced partnerships with institutions such as the American University of Bahrain (AUBH), YK Almoayyed & Sons and Binance Academy, in addition to its agreement with Benefit.-- TradeArabia News Service NEW DELHI, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- An off-duty Indian army trooper was killed after his abduction in India's northeastern state of Manipur, officials said Monday. The 41-year-old trooper was abducted by three unidentified gunmen on Saturday from his home at Tarung-Neikailong in Imphal West district. His body with a bullet hole in his head was found on a road on Sunday. "An Indian Army soldier, Sepoy Serto Thangthang Kom (41), was abducted and later killed, by three unidentified miscreants, while on leave at Tarung, Happy Valley, Imphal West," a statement issued by the Indian Army on Sunday evening said. Officials said the trooper survived by his wife and two children was on leave from Sept. 3 for 15 days. Manipur has seen tensions since May 3 when large-scale violence broke out there during a tribal protest over inclusion of the non-tribal Meiteis community for a scheduled tribe status, which is designated for disadvantaged socio-economic groups, and gives them reservations in education and government jobs. The ethnic clashes between the majority Meitei group and the tribal Kuki minority have displaced 60,000 people. The mobs in the state were reported to have resorted to vandalism and arson targeting houses and shops. As per figures released by police last week, 175 people have been killed, 1,118 injured and 33 reported missing since May 3 due to the violence. Police said 96 bodies were still unclaimed in local hospitals. Police said 5,172 cases of arson have been reported, targeting 4,786 houses and 386 religious places. Weapons looted from the state armory since the beginning of the violence amounted to 5,668 in number, with only 1,329 of them so far recovered. [September 18, 2023] Gopuff Launches Student FAM Membership, Offers the Subscription at 50% Off for College Students Tweet Gopuff, the leading Instant Commerce platform, today announced the launch of its Student FAM membership. The new membership program gives college and university students full access to Gopuff FAM membership benefits at a 50% discount. Priced at just $3.99/month or $39.99/year, Student FAM members enjoy exclusive perks and access to an average of 30% lower prices on everyday essentials, all delivered within minutes. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918628426/en/ Gopuff launches Student FAM membership for only $3.99 a month. (Photo: Business Wire) "In 2013, we founded Gopuff in Philadelphia on our college campus with the premise of improving college students' lives," said Yakir Gola, co-founder and co-CEO of Gopuff. "Today, we are excited to introduce our Student FAM membership which, at only $3.99 a month, is a no-brainer for all college students. We are proud to bring significant value and convenience to more than 1,000 college campuses across the country." Student FAM Membership Offers Amazing Benefits As part of the membership program, students get all of the incredible, new FAM benefits Gopuff launched last month, including: "Lower Than Low Prices" - Members enjoy always-on 30% price reductions on 100+ essentials, like a dozen organic eggs for $2, as well as laundry detergent, paper towels and milk. - Members enjoy always-on 30% price reductions on 100+ essentials, like a dozen organic eggs for $2, as well as laundry detergent, paper towels and milk. Insane Weekly Deals - Dropping every Monday, members receive exclusive, limited-time offers of more than 40% off on trendy, new brands. - Dropping every Monday, members receive exclusive, limited-time offers of more than 40% off on trendy, new brands. No fees, free delivery - Members get unlimited free deliveries with zero additional fees. FAM members make up nearly 50% of all Gopuff orders and save an average of $20 per month per member. Student FAM can often pay for itself in as little as one order. To bring even more value to Student FAM members, Gopuff also announced exclusive perks with leading brands: Bumble: Student FAM members get a free, 7-day Bumble Premium trial. Gauthmath: Student FAM members can access an extended 7-day free trial of GauthPlus and 25% off a Gauthmath premium subscription. Gopuff's Student-Centric Approach From Drexel Uniersity, where Gopuff was founded, to the University of Southern California to the University of Florida and beyond, students across more than 1,100 college campuses turn to Gopuff as the go-to destination for their everyday needs. In a recent student survey, over half of the respondents cited valuable incentives (59%) and lower prices (51%) as key reasons for using Gopuff. In addition to this, Gopuff research also revealed the following: Everyday Staples - Among thousands of student customers, the most popular items purchased on Gopuff include a dozen organic eggs, raspberry lemonade, Basically, purified water, and a lot of hot fries. - Among thousands of student customers, the most popular items purchased on Gopuff include a dozen organic eggs, raspberry lemonade, Basically, purified water, and of hot fries. Cram Session Necessities - During finals, 48% of Gopuff student customers said they order food for delivery more often, and 46% snack throughout the day, making Gopuff a tool for academic success. - During finals, 48% of Gopuff student customers said they order food for delivery more often, and 46% snack throughout the day, making Gopuff a tool for academic success. Gopuff Saves the Day - When asked about the top benefits of using Gopuff, respondents cited the convenience of bypassing a shopping trip and the quick delivery being faster than going to the grocery store. - When asked about the top benefits of using Gopuff, respondents cited the convenience of bypassing a shopping trip and the quick delivery being faster than going to the grocery store. Late Night Bites - Students are night owls - over a third of order volume (37%) takes place between 8 p.m. and midnight. - Students are night owls - over a third of order volume (37%) takes place between 8 p.m. and midnight. Treat Yo' Self - Most students cited "treat-yourself cravings" as a primary reason for their ordering (42%). Whether it's a weekly grocery order, an early-morning test prep or a late-night snack craving, Gopuff's diverse selection of products uniquely caters to the vast needs of students at unbeatable prices. A Platform By Students For Students As freshmen at Drexel University, Rafael Ilishayev and Yakir Gola realized that Yakir - the only friend of theirs with a car - was spending a lot of time running errands for their friends. They knew there had to be a better way. A few months later, Rafael and Yakir launched Gopuff and were making deliveries in a Plymouth Voyager around campus during their sophomore year. Now, ten years later, Gopuff operates hundreds of micro-fulfillment centers and serves customers in over 1,000 cities. The launch of Student FAM is the latest consumer benefit from Gopuff, coming on the heels of the new FAM membership benefits announcement. The launch also follows the expansion of Gopuff's Ads platform in the UK and the announcement of new Ads capabilities. Gopuff will never stop innovating for its customers, and Student FAM sets the stage for even more exciting initiatives to come. How to Sign Up With a .edu email address, undergraduate and graduate students are eligible to join the Student FAM membership program. To sign up for Student FAM and see a list of colleges Gopuff serves, visit the website here. For a limited time, new Gopuff customers who sign up for Student FAM can also use code GOPUFFU for $100 off and a chance to win a $50,000 prize (official rules). Students in Arizona, Florida, Texas, California, Chicago and beyond can keep an eye out for Gopuff's team on campuses giving away swag, discount codes, and more. About Gopuff Founded in 2013 by co-founders and co-CEOs, Rafael Ilishayev and Yakir Gola, Gopuff is the leading Instant Commerce platform, delivering thousands of everyday products to customers in 30 minutes or less. Gopuff has hundreds of micro-fulfillment centers across the U.S. and U.K. which are able to store everything from household essentials to groceries to health products and more. Gopuff's vertically integrated platform delivers a seamless and instant shopping experience to consumers for a low, flat fee. To learn more, visit www.gopuff.com or follow Gopuff on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Download the Gopuff app on iOS and Android. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918628426/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] Steve Gardner Joins Alliant Insurance Services in Rhode Island Tweet Steve Gardner has joined Alliant Insurance Services as Vice President within its Employee Benefits Group. Based in Rhode Island, Gardner will work with a broad range of clients to create, implement, and manage employee benefits solutions that address the changing needs of businesses and individuals. "Steve has been supporting clients in the employee benefits and risk management spaces for decades, and he's bringing that experience to Alliant. As we expand our footprint and serve more customers in the Northeast, Steve's experience gives us a competitive edge," said Kevin Overey, President, Alliant Employee Benefits. "Steve's ability to leverage long-standing customer relationships makes him an asset and a great addition to the team." Gardner joins Alliant with more than 30 years of sales, insurance, and employee benefits experience, serving clients across New England. Throughout his career, he has focused on maintaining high levels of client engagement and enhancing existing partnerships while helping clients get the most out of their employee benefits investment and reducing associated risks. Prior to joining Alliant, Gardner was a Vice President with a national benefits consulting firm. He earned his bachelor's degree from Central Connecticut State University in New Britain, Connecticut. Gardner can be reached at (401) 382-7894 or [email protected]. About Alliant Insurance Services Alliant Insurance Services is one of the nation's leading distributors of diversified insurance products and services. We operate through a network of specialized national platforms and local offices to offer our clients a comprehensive portfolio of solutions built on innovative thinking and personal service. The business of managing risk is getting more complex, and Alliant is meeting this complexity head-on, not with more layers of management, but with more creativity and agility. Alliant is changing the way our clients approach risk management and benefits, so they can capitalize on new opportunities to grow and protect their organizations. Visit us at alliant.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918052207/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] NordPass introduced passkey support for iPhone users Tweet LONDON, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- With Apple rolling out its latest operating system, iOS 17, today, NordPass announced that its customers are now able to create, store, manage, and share passkeys on mobile Apple devices. To date, this feature was available on desktop apps, web pages, and browser extensions. We aim for our customers to experience the best of passkeys from day one of any new technological upgrades delivered in the market. With the new release by Apple, we expanded our offering of passkey-related functionalities, which speeds up the transition from passwords to modern methods of online authentication, says Sorin Manole, product strategist at NordPass . Back in June, during the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), Apple announced that with iOS 17 it will allow third-party apps, such as password managers, to save and offer passkeys for apps and websites across the system, icluding on mobile devices. Without this feature, password managers had their hands tied in bringing their clients fully multi-platform passkey storage that works across all devices, without exception. With this latest addition being gradually rolled out to all users throughout this week, NordPass business and individual customers can create, store, access, manage, and share passkeys on the desktop app, web vault, Firefox and Chrome-based browser extensions, and Apple mobile devices. In the upcoming months, NordPass is also introducing passkey support on mobile devices for Android users, once Google releases its latest operating system. Storing passkeys in a password manager vs. a device A passkey is a pair of related keys: public and private. Once a user chooses to login with passkeys to any website or app that supports this technology, their device generates a private key, which is then automatically stored within. While this option is convenient for people using devices of the same ecosystem because passkeys can be synced across gadgets, people having devices of different ecosystems meet limitations. Creating a passkey in the password manager instead of a device allows access across different devices and operating systems. Additionally, some password managers, including NordPass, allow passkey sharing, which is handy when managing shared accounts. ABOUT NORDPASS NordPass is a password manager for both business and consumer clients. Its powered by the latest technology for the utmost security. Developed with affordability, simplicity, and ease of use in mind, NordPass allows users to access passwords securely on desktop, mobile, and browsers. All passwords are encrypted on the device, so only the user can access them. NordPass was created by the experts behind NordVPN the advanced security and privacy app trusted by more than 14 million customers worldwide. For more information: nordpass.com . Contact: Emilija Gaivenyte [email protected] [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] HSBC appoints Racquel Oden as Head of Wealth and Personal Banking for the US Tweet HSBC USA announced today that Racquel Oden has been appointed Head of Wealth and Personal Banking. In this role, she will oversee the bank's wealth management, global private banking and retail businesses in the US. She will join the bank in December. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918121302/en/ Incoming US Head of Wealth and Personal Banking Racquel Oden (Photo: Business Wire) Based in New York, Oden will report to Michael Roberts, CEO, US and Americas, and Juan Parma, Head of Wealth and Personal Banking Americas. "We're thrilled to welcome Racquel to HSBC," said Roberts. "The Wealth and Personal Banking business plays a key role in HSBC's overall growth strategy in the US. Racquel's extensive industry experience will be instrumental as we strengthen our focuson serving globally connected and high net worth clients." Oden joins HSBC from JPMorgan Chase, where she most recently served as Head of Network Expansion for Consumer Banking. She previously led National Sales and the Northeast Division for both consumer banking and wealth management. Before joining JPMorgan Chase, Oden held several roles at Merrill Lynch, including Head of Advisor Strategy, Head of Global Product Strategy, and Market Executive for the firm's flagship New York Fifth Avenue Market, which serves high-net-worth individuals and institutions. Previously, Oden spent 10 years at UBS in a number of senior leadership roles. She began her career at Morgan Stanley in equity trading. "I'm excited to join HSBC to lead the Wealth and Personal Banking business in the US," said Oden. "I look forward to working with my new colleagues in the US and around the world to continue to build and grow a platform that leverages HSBC's unparalleled international network to serve the unique needs of our clients." About HSBC HSBC Holdings plc, the parent company of HSBC, is headquartered in London. HSBC serves customers worldwide from offices in 62 countries and territories. With assets of US$3,041bn at 30 June 2023, HSBC is one of the world's largest banking and financial services organizations. HSBC Bank USA, National Association (HSBC Bank USA, N.A.) serves customers through Wealth and Personal Banking, Commercial Banking, Private Banking, Global Banking, and Markets and Securities Services. Deposit products are offered by HSBC Bank USA, N.A., Member FDIC. It operates Wealth Centers in: California; Washington, D.C.; Florida; New Jersey; New York; Virginia; and Washington. HSBC Bank USA, N.A. is the principal subsidiary of HSBC USA Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of HSBC North America Holdings Inc. For more information, visit: HSBC in the USA View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918121302/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] Egnyte Announces Industry-Specific Artificial Intelligence Solutions Tweet Egnyte, the secure platform for content collaboration and governance, today announced vertical artificial intelligence (AI) solutions for the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industries. The new solutions will simplify AI deployment and improve model accuracy for customers in AEC industries. Egnyte customers can use the new AI models to label jobsite photos and documents based on their contents. Users will also be able to tag pictures with labels such as "roofing" or "HVAC" or tag documents with labels like "RFI" or "submittal" and trigger workflows and policies based on those labels. "Our AEC customers upload millions of photos to the Egnyte platform every week as a means to report on progress updates, create safety documents, support RFIs, and more," said Ronen Vengosh, senior vice president of Industry Solutions at Egnyte, of the new image labeling capabilities. "The new AI services will help our customers simplify and automate all manner f business processes that surround these images." This feature and other upcoming industry-specific AI solutions are part of Egnyte's confidential and adaptable content intelligence engine. In the coming months, Egnyte plans to introduce other vertical-specific AI models into the engine. The company will also be rolling out a next generation of its Trainable Classifier, enabling non-technical business users to train their own classification models, without exposing those models or the underlying data to any third parties. "Out-of-the-box AI models can support an astounding array of applications, but are not well suited for the more specialized, and often regulated, business settings that many of our customers operate in," said Amrit Jassal, co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Egnyte. "Just as they must be careful when selecting and training new hires for their organizations, today's knowledge-based businesses need to select and tune their AI to ensure the highest degrees of accuracy and reliability. And now they can, without the typical complexity." Egnyte's content intelligence engine is used to power a variety of content management, security, and compliance services delivered natively through the Egnyte platform. In July, the company also introduced a new suite of generative AI-based solutions to help knowledge workers find and summarize information buried in their company's documents and media files. Egnyte will be showcasing these new capabilities at the Egnyte Virtual Summit, in December, and the Vertical AI for AEC at Procore Groundbreak, being held this week in Chicago. To learn more about Egnyte's AEC solution and other vertical market solutions, visit Egnyte.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918735169/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Lookout Announces CrowdStrike Marketplace Availability of Mobile Threat Defense Lookout, Inc., the data-centric cloud security company, today announced the availability of Lookout Mobile Endpoint Security to CrowdStrike channel partners and customers via the CrowdStrike Marketplace. As part of CrowdStrike's world-class ecosystem of compatible solutions from trusted partners, Lookout will be the first mobile threat defense solution in the CrowdStrike Marketplace. While remote work is becoming the new normal for businesses around the world, many struggle to secure an increasingly mobile-centric environment. According to The Global State of Mobile Phishing Report published by Lookout, 2022 saw the highest mobile phishing encounter rate ever, with more than 50% of personal devices exposed to a mobile phishing attack. Lookout estimates the potential annual financial impact of a mobile phishing attack to an organization of 5,000 employees is nearly $4 million. Lookout Mobile Endpoint Security provides visibility into mobile threats and state-sponsored spyware, while protecting against mobile phishing and credential theft. The platform analyzes telemetry from more than 215 million devices, 269 million apps, and millions of web destinations to uncover hundreds of phishing domains each day. "With the CrowdStrike Marketplace, we make it easy for customers to have flexibility and choice through integrations with best-of-breed security products into the CrowdStrike Falcon platform," said Daniel Bernard, Chief Business Officer, CrowdStrike. "Lookout's Mobile Endpoint Security is a great example of an innovative partner security solution that addresses the critical security challenges that organizations face when mployees connect their mobile devices to corporate networks." "The rapidly evolving threat landscape calls for a collaborative approach that brings together best-in-class solutions to secure the new hybrid workforce," said Jim Dolce, Lookout CEO. "Being listed in the CrowdStrike Marketplace is a great opportunity for organizations to directly procure Lookout's advanced mobile security solution to help execute a comprehensive security strategy." Lookout at CrowdStrike Fal.Con 2023 Today through September 21, Lookout will join CrowdStrike and thousands of cybersecurity's best as a Platinum sponsor of CrowdStrike Fal.Con 2023 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Attendees are invited to booth #802 to witness firsthand why Lookout Mobile Endpoint Security is the industry's most advanced mobile threat defense platform. On Tuesday, September 19 at 8:30 a.m. PDT in the Partner Theater @The Hub, Justin Albrecht, Lookout Director of Mobile Threat Intelligence, will host a speaking session titled "Phishing Tricks and Zero Clicks: Tracking Mobile Threats." This session will shed light on the importance of viewing mobile devices as endpoints requiring protection, sharing trends, and reporting on mobile threats while offering unique insights into Lookout's intelligence on APT activity targeting this often overlooked sector. To access Lookout Mobile Endpoint Security on the CrowdStrike Marketplace, click here. Additional Resources: About Lookout Lookout, Inc. is the data-centric cloud security company that delivers zero trust security by reducing risk and protecting data wherever it goes, without boundaries or limits. Our unified, cloud-native platform safeguards digital information across devices, apps, networks and clouds and is as fluid and flexible as the modern digital world. Lookout is trusted by enterprises and government agencies of all sizes to protect the sensitive data they care about most, enabling them to work and connect freely and safely. To learn more about the Lookout Cloud Security Platform, visit www.lookout.com and follow Lookout on our blog, LinkedIn and Twitter. 2023 Lookout, Inc. LOOKOUT, the Lookout Shield Design, and LOOKOUT with Shield Design are registered trademarks of Lookout, Inc. in the United States and other countries. DAY OF SHECURITY, LOOKOUT MOBILE SECURITY, and POWERED BY LOOKOUT are registered trademarks of Lookout, Inc. in the United States. Lookout, Inc. maintains common law trademark rights in EVERYTHING IS OK, PROTECTED BY LOOKOUT, CIPHERCLOUD, the 4 Bar Shield Design, and the Lookout multi-color/multi-shaded Wingspan design. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918598339/en/ Generational Equity Advises JBL Solutions in its Sale to Valsoft Generational Equity, a leading mergers and acquisitions advisor for privately held businesses, is pleased to announce the sale of its client JBL Solutions, LLC to Valsoft Corporation. The transaction closed September 13, 2023. JBL Solutions (JBL), located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is an industry-specific SaaS software publisher. The Company's products trace their history over 40 years of continuous software development and are well-honed to specific industry needs and uses. JBL targets distribution and light fabrication industries, particularly around industrial and welding gas operations. JBL's excellent industry reputation and brand awareness have established it as the go-to source for purpose-driven, industry-specific software solutions. The Company has a client base composed of 225+ active accounts with a 60% rate of repeat business. Located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Valsoft Corporation (Valsoft) acquires and develops vertical market software companies through which each business can deliver the best mission-critical solutions for customers in their respective industries or niche. A key tenet of Valsoft's philosophy is to invest in well-established businesses and foster an entrepreneurial environment that shapes a company into a leader in its respective industry. Unlike private equity and VC firms, Valsoft does not have a predefined investment horizon and looks to buy, hold, and create value through long-term partnerships with existing management and customers. Generational Equity Executive Managing Director of M&A - Central Region, Michael Goss, and his team, led by Senior Managing Director, Julie Sandoval closed the deal. Senior Managing Director, Doug Morrow established the initial relationship with JBL. "It was a pleasure working with the owners of JBL Solutions and the Valsoft Team. I wish both parties continued success," said Sandoval. About Generational Equity Generational Equity, Generational Capital Markets (member FINRA/SIPC), Generational Wealth Advisors, Generational Consulting Group, and DealForce are part of the Generational Group, which is headquartered in Dallas and is one of the leading M&A advisory firms in North America. With more than 350 professionals located throughout 16 offices in North America, the companies help business owners release the wealth of their business by providing growth consulting, merger, acquisition, and wealth management services. The Generational suite of advisory services includes strategic and tactical growth consulting, exit planning education, business valuation, value enhancement strategies, M&A services, wealth management and digital services. The M&A Advisor named Generational Equity Investment Banking Firm of the Year three years in a row, Valuation Firm of the Year in 2020, and North American Investment Bank of the Year in 2022 as well as Consulting Firm of the Year. The Global M&A Network named Generational USA Investment Bank of the Year in 2023. For more information visit https://www.genequityco.com/ or the Generational Equity press room. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918712623/en/ [September 18, 2023] UPDATE -- EDB Open Sources Powerful Tool to Automate and Manage Postgres Deployments Tweet BEDFORD, Mass., Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EnterpriseDB (EDB), the leader in accelerating Postgres in the enterprise, announced today that it is making Trusted Postgres Architect (TPA) available as a new open source tool, accessible to all PostgreSQL users. This deployment automation and configuration management tool streamlines the setup of High Availability (HA) Postgres clusters, helping organizations effortlessly deploy robust, production-ready clusters while saving time and reducing the chance of errors. Deploying and maintaining HA clusters is a complex process involving decisions that can make or break performance and impact operational resiliency and data accuracy. Furthermore, not all organizations have the necessary in-house expertise to navigate these complexities. With this launch, TPA gives enterprises the benefit of EDBs industry-leading expertise throughout the lifecycle of a cluster, from selecting the right set up to keeping it running smoothly. Plus, TPA handles setting up, adjusting, and overseeing both community open source tools and EDB's advanced high-availability solutions. This benefits the entire Postgres community by providing an easy, trustworthy and consistent way to handle clusters. TPA not only embodies EDB's commitment to customer success, but also reflects our ongoing pledge to support the wider Postgres community, said Jozef de Vries, Chief Product Engineering Officer of EDB. Deploying robust production database clusters is clearly of huge importance to anyone operating mission-critical applications. This solution gives customers and open source users peace of mind, reducing the chance of errors and saving time. With TPA, users can expect the following benefits: Simple Structure, Optimal Performance: User-friendly structure allows for experimenting with various cluster architectures and components. With just a few simple commands, users can create and manage HA architectures, ensure optimal performance and reliability, and minimize downtime. User-friendly structure allows for experimenting with various cluster architectures and components. With just a few simple commands, users can create and manage HA architectures, ensure optimal performance and reliability, and minimize downtime. Tested and Trusted Architectue Selection: EDBs Postgres experts design and test architectures to implement backups for disaster recovery, replication for high availability, and protection against replication pitfalls. TPAs concise, declarative syntax makes it easy for users to experiment with these base architectures . EDBs Postgres experts design and test architectures to implement backups for disaster recovery, replication for high availability, and protection against replication pitfalls. TPAs concise, declarative syntax makes it easy for users to experiment with these base architectures Near-Zero Downtime: TPA helps minimize downtime through changes and software configuration updates. And when used in combination with EDB Postgres Distributed s Always On architecture for active-active use cases, near zero downtime can be achieved. TPA helps minimize downtime through changes and software configuration updates. And when used in combination with s Always On architecture for active-active use cases, near zero downtime can be achieved. Backed by a builder of Postgres: As one of the leading contributors to Postgres, EDB has unmatched expertise that empowers customers to make informed decisions at every step, from architecture selection to sustaining high availability. This release marks EDBs latest milestone in its long-standing history as a leading contributor to the open source community, with the largest concentration of Postgres technologists and developers worldwide. Previous open source contributions from EDB include CloudNativePG , the first open source operator optimized for Kubernetes, as well as major contributions to PostgreSQL 15. EDB remains committed to supporting the advancement of open source solutions and will announce additional contributions to PostgreSQL 16 later this month. Visit EDB to learn more about Trusted Postres Architect . About EDB EDB provides enterprise-grade software and services that enable organizations to harness the full power of Postgres, the worlds leading open source database. EDB provides unmatched Postgres database expertise, and enables the same Postgres everywhere, including solutions for hybrid, self-managed private clouds, and EDB BigAnimal, a fully managed cloud database-as-a-service. EDB serves more than 1,500 customers globally, including leading government agencies, financial services, media and information technology companies. As the leading contributor to the vibrant and fast-growing Postgres community, EDB is committed to driving technology innovation. Through its solutions for high availability, reliability, security, 24x7 global support and advanced professional services, EDB empowers enterprises to control risk, manage costs and scale efficiently. For more information, visit www.enterprisedb.com. EnterpriseDB and EDB are registered trademarks and BigAnimal is a trademark of EnterpriseDB Corporation; Oracle is a registered trademark of Oracle Corporation. Postgres and PostgreSQL are registered trademarks of the PostgreSQL Community Association of Canada, and used with their permission. All other trademarks are owned by their respective owners. Media Contact Shane Smith Offleash PR for EDB [email protected] [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] NEP Group Products Honored For Technological Innovation at IBC Show Tweet NEP Group, the leading media technology partner for content creators worldwide, announced today that its 5G MT-UHD MiniTx, the world's smallest low-latency UHD wireless video transmitter, has been named a winner at the 2023 IABM BaM Awards in the Connect category and named Best of Show by TV Technology, while NEP's TFC Ephemeral Productions Platform was named Best of Show at IBC by TVB Europe. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918714281/en/ NEP Group products earned top honors at the 2023 IBC Show in Amsterdam, a gathering of the industry's best in content and technology. (Graphic: Business Wire) The IABM BaM Awards recognize outstanding technological innovations that deliver real business and creative benefits and are widely recognized as the gold standard for rewarding broadcast and media innovation. NEP and subsidiary BSI recently updated its 5G MT-UHD MiniTx wireless transmitter, adding support for 5G NR technology. The 5G MT-UHD MiniTx is a powerful 5G-enabled wireless video transmitter which offers reliability, even in areas with high network congestion. Along with 5G NR coverage, high-quality video encoding, integrated camera control, and low-latency, the 5G MT-UHD MiniTx provides the ability to capture and transmit multiple videos simultaneously. "It is a true honor to receive this award in recognition of our amazing R&D team at BSI Engineering," says Abner Mir Ibarra, Engineering Director, BSI. "In a broadcast industry that is seeing a revolution o workflows and new technology integration brought about by an increasing demand for content, providing our NEP team with truly unique one-of-a-kind products become not only our number one priority but a necessity. I'm truly proud of our team of engineers and I'm forever thankful for their dedication, perseverance, sacrifices and gifts of their incredible talents." BSI's 5G MT-UHD MiniTx was also named Best of Show at IBC by TV Technology. Sacha Rossek, Lead R&D/RF Engineer, BSI, said: "The 5G MT-UHD MiniTx represents NEP's next step in evolving its wireless camera technology to meet the ever-changing availability of RF spectrum, and ultimately, how content is delivered and distributed at event venues across the world. "The winning of these awards highlight NEP's inimitable ability to bring nascent technology to its clients. The MiniTx UHD is an NEP patented product that will truly deliver the wow for its clients." NEP's TFC Ephemeral Productions Platform Named Best of Show The IBC Best of Show Awards, by TVB Europe, recognize innovative products designed for use by broadcasters, content providers and professional audio and video users. TFC Ephemeral Productions is the newest advancement for NEP's patent-pending broadcast controller, TFC. The SaaS solution replaces cumbersome setups with preset templates that allow production teams to seamlessly reconfigure any TFC-enabled facility (including mobile units and connected production facilities) for multiple shows in a matter of minutes. Ephemeral Productions allows broadcasters to effortlessly customize and optimize their production environment, saving valuable time and resources, and shifting their focus from technology to producing compelling content. "Our TFC Ephemeral Productions platform was born out of a user coming to our team with a challenge, and we provided a software solution," said Neil Smith, Global Head of Platform Engineering, NEP Australia, and one of the founders of NEP's cutting-edge TFC broadcast control application. "The platform gives our engineers great flexibility to turn controls around and assign resources. What was once a time cumbersome task, can now be done in minutes. The IBC Best of Show recognition is incredibly impactful to our global company, and I'd like to congratulate our entire team on this achievement." The IBC Show, a gathering of the industry's best in content and technology, runs Friday, 15 September through Monday, 18 September at the RAI Amsterdam convention centre. NEP Group drew together its teams from around the world, bringing staff from Australia, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Germany, India, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, The Netherlands, The United Kingdom, and the United States to the show. NEP's top technology, operations, and commercial experts were on hand to talk about NEP's array of end-to-end solutions, including outside broadcast, connected production, connectivity solutions, specialty capture, TFC (Total Facility Control), Mediabank and more. Visit nepgroup.com to learn more about NEP's live production and connected solutions. About NEP You have a vision. We see it, too. With a worldwide network of experts and cutting-edge technology, our unique Global Production Ecosystem empowers content creators and rights holders to tell stories in breakthrough ways. We're built on 35 years of trusted experience across broadcast, live event, and virtual production to deliver the solutions you need-anytime, anywhere. Headquartered in the United States, NEP has operations in 25 countries with over 5,000 employees. Together, we have supported productions in over 100 countries on all seven continents, and we're still growing. Learn how we help our clients bring content to life at nepgroup.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918714281/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] EnerSys Awarded $92M Long-Term Contract With the United States Navy for Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) Batteries Tweet EnerSys (NYSE: ENS), the global leader in stored energy solutions for industrial applications, has recently been selected to supply its proprietary Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) batteries to the United States Navy (USN) as main storage batteries on all four classes of USN Nuclear Submarines. The contract has a maximum value of $91.8M over its multi-year duration. This production contract is a continuation of a supplier relationship in which EnerSys has supplied its TPPL batteries for US Navy submarines for over fifteen years from its highly automated facility in Warrensburg, Missouri. "The mission-critical nature of our energy storage solutions is at the foundation of our partnership with the US Navy. Our entire EnerSys team is proud of the Navy's confidence in our ability to meet these needs by extending our production relationship through this new contract award," said David Shaffer, President and Chief Executive Officer for EnerSys. Mark Matthews, Senior Vice President Specialty Global added, "EnerSys takes great pride in supporting the US Navy's submarine fleet with our proprietary TPPL technology for the growing needs of this demanding application. It is an honor to partner with the US Navy for the next five years and we look forward to continuing to support the US Navy as well as the entire US Department of Defense with EnerSys advanced lithium cobalt and proprietary lithium ion-chemistries." Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements This press release and oral statements made regarding the subjects of this release, contains forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, or the Reform Act, which may include, but are not limited to, statements regarding EnerSys' earnings estimates, plans, objectives, expectations, intentions and estimated value of contracts with the United States Navy and other statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts, including statements identified by words such as "believe," "plan," "seek," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "will," and similar expressions. All statements addressing operating performance, events, or developments that EnerSys expects or anticipate will occur in the future, including statements relating to sales growth, earnings or earnings per share growth, and market share, as well as statements expressing optimism or pessimism about future operating results, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Reform Act. The forward-looking statements are based on management's current views and assumptions regarding future events and operating performance, and are inherently subject to significant business, economic, and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, satisfying conditions and obligations contained in contracts and changes in circumstances, many of which are beyond EnerSys' control. The statements in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, even if subsequently made available by EnerSys on its website or otherwise. EnerSys does not undertake any obligation to update or revise these statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this press release. Although EnerSys does not make forward-looking statements unless it believes it has a reasonable basis for doing so, EnerSys cannot guarantee their accuracy. The foregoing factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in these forward-looking statements. For a list of other factors which could affect EnerSys' results, including earnings estimates, see EnerSys' filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, "Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," including "Forward-Looking Statements," set forth in EnerSys' Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2023. No undue reliance should be placed on any forward-looking statements. About EnerSys: EnerSys is the global leader in stored energy solutions for industrial applications, designs, manufactures and distributes energy systems solutions and motive power batteries, specialty batteries, battery chargers, power equipment, battery accessories and outdoor equipment enclosure solutions to customers worldwide. The company goes to market through four lines of business: Energy Systems, Motive Power, Specialty and New Ventures. Energy Systems, which combine power conversion, power distribution, energy storage, and enclosures, are used in the telecommunication, broadband and utility industries, uninterruptible power supplies, and numerous applications requiring stored energy solutions. Motive power batteries and chargers are utilized in electric forklift trucks and other industrial electric powered vehicles. Specialty batteries are used in aerospace and defense applications, large over-the-road trucks, premium automotive, medical and security systems applications. New Ventures provides energy storage and management systems for various applications including demand charge reduction, utility back-up power, and dynamic fast charging for electric vehicles. EnerSys also provides aftermarket and customer support services to its customers in over 100 countries through its sales and manufacturing locations around the world. More information regarding EnerSys can be found at www.enersys.com. Sustainability Sustainability at EnerSys is about more than just the benefits and impacts of our products. Our commitment to sustainability encompasses many important environmental, social and governance issues. Sustainability is a fundamental part of how we manage our own operations. Minimizing our environmental footprint is a priority. Sustainability is our commitment to our employees, our customers and the communities we serve. Our products facilitate positive environmental, social and economic impacts around the world. To learn more visit: https://www.enersys.com/en/about-us/sustainability/. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918349618/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] URUMQI, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Under the soft morning glow, Xu Qingshui steered his fishing boat toward the heart of Bosten Lake, gearing up for another busy day. Located in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Bosten, the country's largest inland freshwater lake, enters its busiest fishing season in August lasting until October. Upon reaching their designated fishing spot, Xu and his companions worked together to pull up the nets set the previous day. "This morning's catch was quite good. We had over 200 kilograms of fish, including various big, fleshy carps," Xu said, adding that during a prosperous stretch, he could earn over 1,000 yuan (about 137.46 U.S. dollars) in a single day. With 17 years of fishing experience, Xu attributed the good harvests to the improving ecological environment and the strengthened conservation efforts. To ensure the sustainable development of Bosten Lake's fishery, local authorities have implemented a range of measures, such as managing and controlling pollution at its source, separating pollutants from the water, releasing fish fries into the lake, and imposing seasonal fishing bans. Since 2018, a total of 807 million cubic meters of water have flowed into the Bosten Lake from the Kaidu River, effectively improving the lake's water circulation and water quality. "The water is getting cleaner, and that's fundamental to sustainable fishing," said Xu, whose given name literally means "clean water" in Chinese. Bosten Lake's vast reed beds, covering over 600,000 mu (40,000 hectares), play a crucial role in the ecosystem. They can help filter water and provide habitat and shelter for various aquatic and bird species. The lake is now home to an increasing number of wild birds, with 198 species observed so far. The flourishing ecological environment has infused new vitality into the lake, making it Xinjiang's largest fish production base. It yields over 4,000 tonnes of various aquatic products annually, including grass carp, freshwater shrimp and crabs. "Last year, we released 36 million crab fries, and we started harvesting in August," said Yuan Jianhui, in charge of the crab breeding base. "Next, we plan to introduce Australian freshwater lobsters and expand our breeding scale to allow more people to enjoy Xinjiang's aquatic products." Aquaculture has become a vital industry in Xinjiang, contributing to rural income growth and the region's rural revitalization efforts. In 2022, Xinjiang's total fishery output reached 173,000 tonnes, ranking second among the five provinces and autonomous regions in northwest China. [September 18, 2023] Alberta Clean Tech Company Kathairos Solutions reaches major methane milestone Tweet One year, 1,000 units sold, 40,000 metric tons of CO2e emissions eliminated CALGARY, AB, Sept. 18, 2023 /CNW/ - 2023 In less than 12 months of commercial operation, Calgary-based clean technology company Kathairos Solutions has seen unprecedented adoption of its novel methane elimination system for remote oil and gas well sites. The uptake of Kathairos' technology, and the 40,000 metric tons of CO2 equivalent emissions it has abated in its first year, equates to planting 660,000 trees in 12 months. Kathairos eliminates methane venting on remote wells by using liquid nitrogen an inert, non-polluting fuel source to operate pneumatic devices. Nitrogen has a gas equivalence ratio (GER) of 1.2764, meaning each unit of nitrogen used directly eliminates 1.2764 units of methane that would have otherwise been vented to the atmosphere. Methane is a highly potent greenhouse gas with 28 times the global warming potential of carbon dioxide. The Kathairos solution will play an imperative role in Alberta's shift to a carbon-neutral economy by 2050 a target Alberta's UCP Government has championed through its Emissions Reduction and Energy Development Plan. "It's no secret that Alberta has helped show the world what is possible when it comes to reducing methane emissions," said Minister of Environment and Protected Areas Rebecca Schulz. "Al of this is amazing progress and provides proof that we absolutely can do this, and that industry and the province can and will lead the charge. We will continue to set new targets and work to reduce methane emissions, while removing barriers and building on the practical innovations that are already underway here in Alberta," said the Minister. Kathairos shares the belief that the path to continued emissions reduction is through effective policies and partnerships, and that reliable, affordable and scalable Alberta-made clean technologies like its liquid nitrogen pneumatic power drive system will enable regional, national and global targets to be realized. "We stand by the Honourable Minister Schulz in her conviction that Alberta energy innovators are having a significant impact on emissions reduction worldwide," said Kathairos President and CEO Dick Brown. "We are proving to be stewards of the environment and leaders in clean technology solutions, while stepping up to solve the world's energy needs." The Kathairos solution produces zero onsite emissions and addresses a longstanding issue plaguing remote well sites. It provides a profoundly clean, simple and reliable fuel source to pneumatic devices, which are responsible for 40% of upstream oil and gas methane emissions. Further, it affords producers the first truly economical way to address pneumatic venting. The low monthly rental cost of the Kathairos solution combined with Alberta's Emission Offset System allows Alberta producers to monetize their emission reductions, creating an important market incentive for decarbonizing the oil and gas industry. Over the past 12 months, Kathairos has successfully entered pilot and commercial operations with more than 60 major North American oil and gas producers across 17 oil and gas-producing basins spanning Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Ohio, and across the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin of BC and Alberta. Learn more at https://kathairos.com , and follow our abated methane emissions counter in real time at https://ghg.kathairos.com. About the World Petroleum Congress Held every three years in WPC member countries, the Congress is the world's 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 world's 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 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 world's 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. About Kathairos Solutions At Kathairos, our name means 'clean air.' We are proud to champion imperative solutions that support today's evolving energy industry, and the people and producers working tirelessly toward a cleaner, greener barrel. Through our revolutionary liquid nitrogen-powered field technologies and world-class carbon accounting and reporting tools, we're on a mission to eliminate methane emissions from more than 450,000 remote well sites across Canada and the US. Learn more at kathairos.com, and see our live abated methane emissions counter at ghg.kathairos.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/alberta-clean-tech-company-kathairos-solutions-reaches-major-methane-milestone-301931086.html SOURCE Kathairos Solutions [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] Recharge Capital Taps Bridgewater Associates Singapore Executive Margaret Wang as Managing Partner Tweet Recharge Capital, the leading $6B thematic-first private investment firm, today announced former Executive Director and Head of Bridgewater Associates Singapore, Margaret Wang, has been appointed Managing Partner focused on leading its Women's Health Strategy. Wang will lead the firm's Singapore office and spearhead the firm's operations in the APAC region. Wang joins Recharge Capital with experience in senior leadership positions at global asset managers and financial services firms. Prior to leading Bridgewater Associates Singapore, Wang served as Director of Strategic Initiatives at Paxos, a blockchain infrastructure provider, and as Head of Product Partnerships at Squarespace (NYSE: SQSP), leading partnerships across payment, content, and business management with Apple, Google, Facebook, PayPal, Chownow, Acuity Scheduling, and Zola. She began her career in strategy and business development at Merrill Lynch and Goldman Sachs. "Margaret's appointment is a catalytic moment for our firm," said Lorin Gu, Founding Partner of Recharge Capital. "She brings tremendous experience to our thematic-first investment framework and maintains a track record as one of the world's best-in-class asset managers across sectors. We're excited for this next phase of growth which is solidified with Margaret's expertise." Upon joining Recharge Capital, Wang is set to play a crucial leadership role in the firm's thematic strategies, including Rhea Holdings Co., a $200M women's heathcare-focused investment vehicle launched in June 2023. With a novel private equity structure, the vehicle leverages cross-asset class strategies to drive transformative growth in the women's healthcare industry. "I'm thrilled to join the Recharge team and drive value creation across key international markets," said Wang. "The firm's thematic strategy is well-positioned to foster innovation and societal impact across the value chain, and I'm excited to tackle the crucial challenges our world faces through our unique approach to investing in and building meaningful businesses." At Bridgewater Associates, Margaret led the firm's on-ground operations and managed the buildout of its Singapore office to strengthen its foothold in the APAC region. "Over the past several years, Margaret has played an important role in furthering our presence in Singapore by establishing and leading our office there," said Kyle Delaney, President & Chief Commercial Officer of Bridgewater Associates. "We're thrilled to watch Margaret take on her new role and grateful for her contributions to the Bridgewater community." Margaret joins Recharge's thematic investment team as a key growth driver for the firm's innovative and incentive-aligned investment structures. Recharge Capital remains an active investor in sectors such as fintech democratization, women's healthcare, digital assets, and semiconductor enablement. About Recharge Capital: Recharge Capital is a leading thematic-first private investment firm focused on driving innovation and impact across various sectors. With a strong emphasis on women's healthcare and fertility, the firm leverages its expertise and strategic partnerships to invest, scale, and optimize transformative businesses. Recharge Capital operates from its offices in New York and Singapore, serving as a catalyst for positive change in the global investment landscape. For further information about Recharge Capital and its women's healthcare and fertility initiatives, please visit our website at www.rechargecapital.com or contact our press office at [email protected]. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918472466/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] Russell Investments Announces Proposed Fund Mergers Tweet Russell Investments Canada Limited (the "Manager") announced today that it proposes to merge Russell Investments Global Unconstrained Bond Pool, Russell Investments Global Unconstrained Bond Class and Russell Investments Global Credit Class (each a "Terminating Fund") into Russell Investments Global Credit Pool (the "Continuing Fund"). The merger of Russell Investments Global Unconstrained Bond Pool will be implemented by selling the assets of the Terminating Fund to the Continuing Fund in return for units of the Continuing Fund. The Terminating Fund's units then will be redeemed and each investor's units of the Terminating Fund will be exchanged for a proportionate number of units of an equivalent series of the Continuing Fund. The mergers of Russell Investments Global Unconstrained Bond Class and Russell Investments Global Credit Class will be implemented by redeeming the shares of the Terminating Fund in return for a proportionate number of units of an equivalent series of the Continuing Fund. Each merger will result in taxable dispositions of all units or shares of the Terminating Fund held by its investors. The Manager expects that this will not result in a material tax liability for most investors. The investors of each Terminating Fund will be asked to approve its merger at special meetings to be held on or about November 13, 2023. The mergers of Russell Investments Global Unconstrained Bond Pool and Russell Investments Global Unconstrained Bond Class will proceed and take effect on or shortly after December 1, 2023, only if both mergers receive all required approvals. The merger of Russell Investments Global Credit Class will proceed and take effect on or shortly after December 1, 2023, if approved by its shareholders, regardless of whether any other merger is approved. Following each merger, the Terminating Fund will be wound up as soon as reasonably possble. On or prior to the effective date of the mergers, the Manager will suspend purchases of units and shares of the Terminating Funds. Investors will have the right to redeem units and shares of the Terminating Funds up to the close of business on the effective date of the mergers. Following the mergers, all optional plans, including pre-authorized purchase programs, automatic withdrawal plans, systematic switch programs and automatic rebalancing services, which were established with respect to the Terminating Funds will be re-established in comparable plans with respect to the Continuing Fund unless investors advise otherwise. Units of the Continuing Fund received by an investor of a Terminating Fund as a result of its merger will be subject to the same deferred sales charge (if any) applicable to the units or shares of the Terminating Fund they replace. About Russell Investments Canada Limited Russell Investments Canada Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Russell Investments Group, Ltd. Established in 1985, Russell Investments Canada Limited has its head office in Toronto. About Russell Investments Russell Investments is a leading global investment solutions firm providing a wide range of investment capabilities to institutional investors, financial intermediaries, and individual investors around the world. Building on an 86-year legacy of continuous innovation to deliver exceptional value to clients, Russell Investments works every day to improve the financial security of its clients. The firm has more than C$394 billion in assets under management (as of 6/30/2023) for clients in 32 countries. Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, Russell Investments has offices in 17 cities around the world, including New York, London, Toronto, Tokyo, and Shanghai. For more information, please visit www.russellinvestments.com/ca. Nothing in this publication is intended to constitute legal, tax securities or investment advice, nor an opinion regarding the appropriateness of any investment, nor a solicitation of any type. This is a publication of Russell Investments Canada Limited and has been prepared solely for information purposes. It is made available on an "as is" basis. Russell Investments Canada Limited does not make any warranty or representation regarding the information. Russell Investments is the operating name of a group of companies under common management, including Russell Investments Canada Limited. Russell Investments' ownership is composed of a majority stake held by funds managed by TA Associates Management, L.P., with a significant minority stake held by funds managed by Reverence Capital Partners, L.P. Certain of Russell Investments' employees and Hamilton Lane Advisors, LLC also hold minority, non-controlling, ownership stakes. Copyright Russell Investments Canada Limited 2023. All rights reserved. Not for distribution to U.S. newswire services or dissemination in the United States. CORPCA-00573 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918553896/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] NASA Finalizes Coverage for First US Asteroid Sample Landing Tweet WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The first asteroid sample collected in space by NASA will arrive on Earth Sunday, Sept. 24, and there are multiple events leading up to its landing. NASA's live coverage of the OSIRIS-REx (Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification and Security Regolith Explorer) capsule landing starts at 10 a.m. EDT (8 a.m. MDT) and will air on NASA TV, the NASA app, and the agency's website. Watch online at: https://www.nasa.gov/live In addition to the English broadcast, NASA will stream coverage of the landing beginning at 10 a.m. EDT (8 a.m. MDT) in Spanish on X, Facebook, and YouTube. Postlanding news conference A postlanding news conference will occur about 5 p.m. EDT (3 p.m. MDT), when the sample capsule arrives at a temporary clean room on the military range. Coverage will air on NASA TV, the NASA app, and the agency's website. To submit quetions during the briefing, media must send their full name, affiliation, email address, and phone number no later than two hours before the start of the call to Alana Johnson at: [email protected]. Prelanding media call Prior to landing, the agency also will host a media call to provide a status update at 3 p.m. EDT (1 p.m. MDT) on Friday, Sept. 22. To successfully deliver a sample from the near-Earth asteroid Bennu, spacecraft operators need to ensure OSIRIS-REx travels at the right speed and direction to release the sample capsule into the atmosphere, landing it on the U.S. Department of Defense's Utah Test and Training Range. Mission leadership will discuss the results of the spacecraft's final trajectory maneuvers, and expectations for the capsule's entry, descent, and landing, and plans for recovery operations in Utah's western desert. Audio of the call will stream live on NASA's website. Participants include: Lori Glaze , director, Planetary Sciences Division, NASA Headquarters, Washington , director, Planetary Sciences Division, NASA Headquarters, Rich Burns , OSIRIS-REx project manager, NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland , OSIRIS-REx project manager, NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, Sandra Freund , OSIRIS-REx program manager, Lockheed Martin , OSIRIS-REx program manager, Lockheed Martin Nicole Lunning , OSIRIS-REx curation lead, NASA's Johnson Space Center, Houston , OSIRIS-REx curation lead, NASA's Johnson Space Center, Dante Lauretta , OSIRIS-REx principal investigator, University of Arizona To participate in the teleconference, members of the media must send their full name, affiliation, email address, and phone number no later than two hours before the start of the call to Alana Johnson at [email protected]. Two more OSIRIS-REx activities happening Sept. 22 include: Remote interviews: NASA will offer live and taped interviews to reporters with members of the OSIRIS-REx team and subject matter experts. Interviews will be conducted remotely using video chat programs, primarily Zoom, in nine-minute time slots beginning at 6 a.m. EDT ( 4 a.m. MDT ). Media can request interviews online. NASA will offer live and taped interviews to reporters with members of the OSIRIS-REx team and subject matter experts. Interviews will be conducted remotely using video chat programs, primarily Zoom, in nine-minute time slots beginning at ( ). Media can request interviews online. Stamp first day of issue ceremony: The U.S. Postal Service will hold a first day of issue ceremony for a stamp featuring OSIRIS-REx at Clark Planetarium in Salt Lake City at 11 a.m. MDT . The USPS news release provides more information about the event, which media are invited to attend. NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, provides overall mission management, systems engineering, and the safety and mission assurance for OSIRIS-REx. Dante Lauretta of the University of Arizona, Tucson, is the principal investigator. The university leads the science team and the mission's science observation planning and data processing. Lockheed Martin Space in Littleton, Colorado, built the spacecraft and provides flight operations. Goddard and KinetX Aerospace are responsible for navigating the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft. Curation for OSIRIS-REx, including processing the sample when it arrives on Earth, will take place at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston. International partnerships on this mission include the OSIRIS-REx Laser Altimeter instrument from CSA (Canadian Space Agency) and asteroid sample science collaboration with JAXA's (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) Hayabusa2 mission. OSIRIS-REx is the third mission in NASA's New Frontiers Program, managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, for the agency's Science Mission Directorate in Washington. To learn more about the asteroid sample recovery mission visit: https://www.nasa.gov/osiris-rex View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nasa-finalizes-coverage-for-first-us-asteroid-sample-landing-301931180.html SOURCE NASA [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [September 18, 2023] BlackBerry Summit Speakers Announced Tweet Thought leaders from around the world will assemble in New York to advance the future of the IoT, IT, and Cybersecurity WATERLOO, ON, Sept. 19, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- BlackBerry Limited (NYSE: BB; TSX: BB) today unveiled its lineup of guest speakers for BlackBerry Summit, the company's biggest event of the year. Taking place on October 17 in New York at the Conrad New York Downtown, BlackBerry Summit will bring together thought leaders in IoT, IT, and Cybersecurity and showcase the company's latest innovations. John Chen, Executive Chairman & CEO, BlackBerry, will deliver the opening keynote, providing an update on BlackBerry's strategy and vision, and be followed by thought leaders from around the world, namely: Jim Hagemann Snabe, Chairman Siemens, Chairman Northvolt, Board Member C3.ai, Former co-CEO of SAP Honorable Dana Deasy , Board Member Deutsche Bank USA , SAIC, Chairman Intangic, Adjunct Professor Carnegie Mellon University , Board Member Deutsche Bank , SAIC, Chairman Intangic, Adjunct Professor Sami Khoury , Head, Canadian Centre for Cyber Security , Head, Canadian Centre for Cyber Security Kenneth Bible , Chief Information Security Officer, U.S. Department of Homeland Security , Chief Information Security Officer, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Raj Thuppa, Chief Information Officer, Department of National Defence, Canada Philipp Skogstad , President & CEO, Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America , President & CEO, Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America Sarah Cooper , General Manager Industry Products, Amazon Web Services , General Manager Industry Products, Amazon Web Services Mauhan Zonoozy, Head of Innovation, Spotify Innocent Muhizi , CEO, Rwanda Information Society Authority, Rwanda , CEO, Rwanda Information Society Authority, Zina Cole , Partner, and Wendy Zhu , Associate Partner, McKinsey & Company , Partner, and , Associate Partner, McKinsey & Company Kristin Lee , Senior Features Editor, MotorTrend , Senior Features Editor, MotorTrend Goldy Hyder , President & CEO, Business Council of Canada , President & CEO, Business Council of Michael Tremblay , President & CEO, Invest Ottawa , President & CEO, Invest Ottawa Dr. Steven Gottwals , Technical Director Security Solutions, Adobe Neelam Sandhu , Chief Marketing Officer, Chief Elite Customer Success Officer, Head of Sustainability, BlackBerry. "Their visionary perspectives on the future of the IoT, IT, and Cybersecurity, together with innovations from BlackBerry, will help shape and advance a trusted, hyperconnected world. The excitement is evident for a BlackBerry Summit experience that will enable our customers to confidently unlock business value in the digital era." BlackBerry Summit will reveal the global trends that will shape the future of business in a world driven by rapid technological developments and affected by a digital trust deficit. As well, attendees will experience new technologies for their IoT, IT, and Cybersecurity needs including edge intelligence, AI cybersecurity, embedded systems, quantum solutions, edge-to-cloud platforms, and more. To register, view the detailed event agenda, and be the first to know as we announce more speakers and event experiences, visit BlackBerry.com/Summit. About BlackBerry BlackBerry (NYSE: BB; TSX: BB) provides intelligent security software and services to enterprises and governments around the world. The company secures more than 500M endpoints including over 235M vehicles. Based in Waterloo, Ontario, the company leverages AI and machine learning to deliver innovative solutions in the areas of cybersecurity, safety, and data privacy solutions, and is a leader in the areas of endpoint security, endpoint management, encryption, and embedded systems. BlackBerry's vision is clear - to secure a connected future you can trust. For more information, visit BlackBerry.com and follow @BlackBerry. Trademarks, including but not limited to BLACKBERRY and EMBLEM Design are the trademarks or registered trademarks of BlackBerry Limited, and the exclusive rights to such trademarks are expressly reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. BlackBerry is not responsible for any third-party products or services. Media Contacts: BlackBerry Media Relations +1 (519) 597-7273 [email protected] Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/726868/BlackBerry_Logo.jpg [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] We've noticed a slight lull in local violence over the past week but, tragically, that trend was cut short this morning after double gunfire in Westport and updates about another local murder. So far the homicide count remains about 15% higher than last year and only 2 less than 2020 -- A record breaking year for murder in KCMO. Here's the latest report: Homicide 3900 block of South Benton On 09/18/23 just after 0900AM, officers were dispatched on a reported shooting in the 3900 block of South Benton Ave. Upon arrival, officers observed multiple parties inside of the residence that were called outside of the home to allow officers to enter and search for any potential victims. Officers located an adult male inside of the front entrance of residence unresponsive and suffering from multiple apparent gunshot wounds. Officers checked for any signs of life on the gunshot victim and were met with negative results. EMS responded shortly after officers located the victim and declared the male deceased on scene. Homicide detectives and crime scene personnel have responded to begin gathering evidence and collecting witness statements. An adult male subject of interest was taken into custody without incident. Detectives are not currently seeking any additional persons of interest at this time, and do not believe there is a continued threat to the community regarding this incident. The cause leading up to the shooting is unknown at this time. This incident will be investigated as a homicide and is considered ongoing at this time. Roselyn Temple with KC Mothers in Charge has also responded to assist friends and family of the victim through this difficult time. We are committed to assisting victims of violent crimes through use of Missouris Protection Program for Victims/Witnesses of Violent Crime. Funding for temporary, or even permanent relocation, may be available but is subject to pre-approval by the States administering agency. We are working with Partners for Peace in all our homicide investigations to monitor risks for retaliation and provide social services to affected residents. ########### Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . . Kansas City police take man into custody after deadly shooting at home along South Benton Ave. Officers were called to the 3900 block of South Benton Ave just after 9 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 18 Kansas City, Missouri, police respond to homicide in 3900 block of South Benton Avenue The Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department responded to a homicide Monday morning in the 3900 block of South Benton Avenue. Developing . . . We talked about this over the weekend . . . But we don't mind revisiting mainstream followup attempting a morning feast on our savory TKC blog community leftovers . . . Check the stakes . . . "There are some 2,200 workers at the Fairfax Plant who make the Cadillac XT4 SUV and the Chevrolet Malibu, according to the company." Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . . Fairfax GM plant could temporarily shutdown as early as Monday The ongoing auto workers strike could soon impact plants in the Kansas City Metro. A GM Assembly plant in Wentzville, Missouri ceased operations on Friday, September 15 and GM representatives said it could temporarily cease operations at a Fairfax plant as well. UAW justifies wage demands by pointing to CEO pay raises. So how high were they? It's been a central argument for the United Auto Workers union: If Detroit's three automakers raised CEO pay by 40% over the past four years, workers should get similar raises. Auto workers strike could shut down the Fairfax GM plant in Kansas City, Kansas, this week General Motors says the strike that shut down the Wentzville plant near St. Louis means there may not be enough parts to assemble cars in Kansas City, Kansas. Developing . . . The grades six to eight, developmentally delayed kids at Brookview Middle School in Toronto were the inspiration for Samantha Fung and her charity, Music For Every Child. At the beginning, students would be, like, kind of nervous and shy, and then the end of the year they'd be a lot more confident and even get up in the middle of the class and start dancing," said the 14-year-old from Mississauga. "So just seeing like their smiles and their confidence, it's amazing to see how I can be helping. That was two years ago. Today, the charity, which raises funds to provide free music therapy to developmentally delayed children serves six schools in Toronto, one in Mississauga and one in Ottawa, with two more scheduled to come on board later this year. Fung has received the Canada SDG Youth Award a national award which recognizes contributions to achieving the United Nations' sustainable development goals of education and economic development and the Diana Award, named in memory and honour of the late Princess Diana. It's awarded to a young person "from across the U.K. and around the world" for going above and beyond in their daily life to create and sustain positive change. (Fung is) a very driven young lady, well beyond her years, explained Gary Bertao, Fungs Grade 5 homeroom teacher. I nominated her for the Diana Award for that reason. When she was starting, Fung approached Bertao, who introduced her to the principal of Brookview Middle School. The principal suggested the charity Music For Every Child become educational partners with the Toronto District School Board. That just opened up a lot for us because the teachers were able to search us up within their Toronto District School Board resources, said Fung. Several studies have found music therapy has a beneficial effect on hearing and speech development in children with those delays. "Both phonological capacity and the children's understanding of speech increased under treatment, as well as their cognitive structures, action patterns, and level of intelligence," said the authors of a study titled "Effects of music therapy in the treatment of children with delayed speech development results of a pilot study," published in the BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine in July 2010. The great thing about how music therapy supports developmentally disabled children is that it provides a safe space for children to engage in a way that feels natural, said Mary Meads, clinical director with Wellington Music Therapy Services, which provides therapists to Music for Every Child. We naturally engage with music quite often. And so you're able to use music to work on non-musical goals. And it doesn't feel like you're working on those musical goals. It just feels like you're playing in music and playing in a group." Part of the mission of the charity is to engage local youth, and to this end, 200 children have volunteered with it. We've been focusing on engaging a lot more youth volunteers so that they can get the opportunity to lead and plan their own events and actually fundraise for the music therapy, said Fung. It gives them unique opportunities and share the joy of giving that me and my friends have found (with) Music For Every Child. Fung's hope is to expand the program beyond the three cities. What we've been working on is trying to keep up with the expansion because it was like growing so fast that we didn't know how to keep up. So now we're still kind of trying to manage all that. More than 40,000 units of affected products are either being pulled from shelves or are in the hands of shoppers and Health Canada is warning people who shop at some of Canada's most popular grocery and discount stores. One of the recalls involves a three-piece Outdoor Home Collection and five-piece Tan Bistro Sets sold at Winners, HomeSense and Marshalls. The set consists of one small wooden table and two or four folding chairs made with wood frames and black, navy, or white roping on the seat and back, according to Health Canada. The affected products are: TAN-3PC MELUN BISTRO SET, Style number VK 212217 and TJX numbers 137376 and 137446, and the TAN-5PC MELUN BISTRO SET, Style number VK 212218 and TJX numbers 137377 and 137447. "The frame of the chair can break when a consumer is seated, posing a fall hazard," Health Canada said in its recall warning. "Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled products and return them to a HomeSense, Winners or Marshalls for a refund." As of August 30, 2023, the company has received no reports of incidents or injuries in Canada. The company reported that 696 units of the affected products were sold in Canada from April 2022 to August 2022. For more information, consumers can contact TJX Canada by telephone toll-free at 1-800-646-9466 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST Monday to Friday, or by visiting the Winners, HomeSense, or Marshalls websites. Other items being taken off shelves involve an expanded recall of assorted Joe Fresh hair elastic and jewellery products sold at Real Canadian Superstore, Fortinos, Loblaws, Your Independent Grocer, Zehrs, No Frills, Joe Fresh Standalone and Shoppers Drug Mart. The hair accessories styles and necklace styles with glass-like glitter baubles tend to easily break with minimal force, resulting in a laceration hazard due to sharp points/sharp edges, according to Health Canada in its recall warning. As of September 8, 2023, the company has received no reports of injuries or incidents in Canada. The company reported that approximately 40,136 units of the affected products were sold in Canada between January and July of this year. "Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled products and return the product to any store where Joe Fresh apparel is sold," the warning states. "The customer service desk will provide a full refund. A receipt is not necessary. No corrected or replacement product will be offered." Here are all the affected products, style and UPC numbers: For more information about products and the refund policy, consumers can contact Joe Fresh customer service at https://www.joefresh.com/ca/contact-us. To the editor: Mike Adlers report on the demise of Line 3 in Scarborough said a lot about why our public transit system(s) in this part of Toronto is inadequate when it comes to serving the needs of the people of Scarborough. When asked if they support provincial government funding for a dedicated busway to replace the LRT and whether they are working (advocating) for this assistance, all four Conservative MPPs issued identical statements that did not address the busway issue. In other words, none of these four members of Doug Fords Conservative government is open to admitting they are working for the people riding the bus in Scarborough. It makes one feel that Ford has someone elses best interests at heart, and he is no longer for the people. Also, by failing to advocate for better transit, these four MPPs Aris Babikian, Raymond Cho, David Smith and Vijay Thanigasalam are demonstrating that they are Doug Fords representatives here in Scarborough, NOT our representatives at Queens Park. Scarborough needs strong advocates in public office so we can have the public transit and other services that our community requires. Allan Baker Scarborough UN is collaborating with local authorities and aid agencies to provide aid to those in need in Derna, the hardest-hit city by floods in eastern Libya. BEIJING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- China's Supreme People's Procuratorate (SPP) has ordered the arrest of Jiang Zhigang, former deputy Party chief of northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, for suspected bribe-taking, the SPP said Monday. Jiang's case was transferred to procuratorial authorities for examination and prosecution following the conclusion of an investigation by the National Commission of Supervision. The handling of the case is underway, said the SPP. A doctor wearing a mask lean into a black plastic body bag and gently moves the legs of the man inside. He explains that the first step in determining a person's identity is to determine their age, sex, and height. "He's in the putrefaction stage now, because of the water." In the parking lot of a hospital in the eastern Libyan city of Derna, workers are carefully examining and recording the final details of one of the many victims of the recent floods. Read More: UAE Landmarks Light Up in Solidarity With Libya This is now one of the most important jobs in Derna, but it is also one of the most distressing. The man's body is unrecognizable after spending a week in the sea. It was washed ashore that morning. Experienced hands gently examine the body for identifying marks and take a DNA sample. This is important in case there is still a family alive who can claim him. The internationally recognized government of Libya says that more than a quarter of the buildings in Derna were damaged or destroyed by the catastrophic flood last week. Read More: UAE Send Aid and Rescue Teams to Libya According to the UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, more than 10,000 people are still officially missing after the recent floods in Libya. The Red Crescent has been issuing its own numbers, which are slightly different. The UN says that the death toll so far stands at around 11,300, but the final total is still unclear. What is certain is that this catastrophe is on a massive scale. NANCHANG, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- China's Jiangxi Jiangling Group Electric Vehicle Co., Ltd. will deliver 300 new energy vehicles (NEVs) to Turkiye in October, the company said. The Jiangling "Yi" model to be exported to Turkiye uses a dual motor combination, with a comprehensive output power of 170 kW and a 100-km acceleration within 5.8 seconds, according to Nie Xiaoyong, vice president of the Engineering Research Institute at the company. According to a cooperation agreement signed by the company and its partner in Turkiye, between 2024 and 2026, its Turkish partner will set up professional sales teams and exhibition halls in Turkiye, and build a sales network with 35 dealers within three years. Jiangxi Jiangling Group Electric Vehicle Co., Ltd., located in Nanchang City, east China's Jiangxi Province, was established in 2015. It is a new energy vehicle company that integrates research and development, production, and sales of new energy vehicles and auto parts. Hi, my name is Scott C. Waring and I wrote a few books and am currently a ESL School Owner in Taiwan. I have had my own UFO sighting up close and personal, but that's how it works right? A non believer becomes a believer when they experience their first sighting. You witnessed it, your perceptual field changes, so now you need to share it. I created this site to help the UFO community get a little bit organized. I noticed that there was a lot of chaos when searching for UFO sighting reports, so I hope this site helps. I wanted to support those eyewitnesses who have tried to tell others about what they have seen, yet were laughed at by even closest of friends. More and more each day the governments of the world leak bits and pieces of UFO information to the public. They have a trickle down theory in hopes of slowly getting citizens use to the idea that we are not alone in universe and never have been. The truth is being leaked drop by drop until one day we look around and find ourselves neck high in it. The discovery of alien species in existence is the most monumental scientific event in human history, suppression of that information is a crime against humanity. About me: I live in Taiwan. I OWN MY OWN ENGLISH SCHOOL, AND ONCE HAD 5 SCHOOLS. Am Former USAF at SAC base (flight line). Age: 42 Educ: BA in Elem ed. Masters in Counseling ed. I had two UFO sightings, (30+bus size orbs) in military and in 2012 personally saw the UFO over Taipei 101 building on New Years Day (and recored it). In the area of responsibility of the Operational Command South, the Defense Forces destroyed about 20 Russian invaders, 3 boats and 5 large-caliber guns in one day. Natalia Humeniuk, the head of the joint press center of the Operational Command South, said this on the air of the United News nationwide telethon, Ukrinform reports. "Minus five large-caliber guns over the past day is a powerful result of the defense forces, minus 18 occupiers and three more boats on which they tried to maneuver among the islands and place their observation posts there. One of these posts was also destroyed," she said. Humeniuk noted that the enemy continues its terror tactics and launched an information campaign about the shelling of Nova Kakhovka. "The situation remains quite tense, because the enemy has not given up its plans to continue terrorizing the population of the right bank, and as yesterday's situation showed that there is also very heavy shelling terror of the left bank. Because not having the proper organization of what they planned, they bomb those directions even where their units are located. For example, yesterday a guided aerial bomb was dropped on Nova Kakhovka, which is located in the temporarily occupied territory, where civilians were injured and the occupiers, in a panic, launched a large, powerful information campaign claiming that such strikes are carried out by the Defense Forces. But all the facts are documented and there is an evidence base to establish the fact of the enemy's terrorism," Humeniuk said. As Ukrinform reported, from February 24, 2022 to September 16, 2023, the Defense Forces of Ukraine eliminated about 271,790 Russian aggressors, including another 350 occupiers on September 15. Russia keeps seven ships on combat duty in the Black Sea, with no missile carriers among them. The Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said this in a post on Facebook, Ukrinform reports. "As of 08:00, seven enemy ships are on combat duty in the Black Sea," the report says. According to the Naval Forces, Russia keeps four ships in the Sea of Azov. One Russian ship is on combat duty in the Mediterranean Sea. As reported, on the morning of September 15, there were 16 Russian ships on combat duty in the Black Sea, one in the Sea of Azov. On September 17, 2023, Russian troops attacked the Sumy regions border areas 34 times. A total of 179 explosions were recorded. The relevant statement was made by Sumy Regional Military Administration on Telegram, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. In particular, the following communities came under enemy fire: Krasnopillia, Nova Sloboda, Bilopillia, Khotin, Velyka Pysarivka, Yunakivka, Esman, Vorozhba and Znob-Novhorodske. In the Krasnopillia community, Russians launched artillery strikes (15 explosions) and mortar strikes (49 explosions). Additionally, enemy helicopters fired four unguided air-to-surface missiles from Russias territory. In the Nova Sloboda community, one unguided air-to-surface missile was fired from Russias territory. In the Bilopillia community, Russian invaders fired six unguided air-to-surface missiles from a helicopter and attacked with artillery (11 explosions). In the Khotin community, the enemy fired six unguided air-to-surface missiles from Russias territory and launched artillery strikes (10 explosions). In the Velyka Pysarivka community, Russians opened fire with artillery (18 explosions). One civilian was killed and one injured. Additionally, Russias aircraft fired six unguided air-to-surface missiles. In the Yunakivka community, the enemy dropped 29 mines. In the Esman community, Russias FPV suicide drone attack was recorded. In the Vorozhba community, Russian invaders launched artillery strikes (nine explosions). A civilian was injured. In the Znob-Novhorodske community, the enemy launched mortar strikes (seven explosions) and artillery strikes (seven explosions). In the early hours of Monday, September 18, Ukraines air defense forces downed 18 of 24 Shahed-136/131 one-way attack drones and all 17 Kh-101/Kh-555/Kh-55 cruise missiles launched by Russia. Thats according to the Ukrainian Air Force, Ukrinform reports. The Shaheds flew from two directions: Primorsko-Akhtarsk in Russia and Cape Chauda in temporarily occupied Crimea. A total of 24 attack UAVs were spotted flying toward Mykolaiv and Odesa regions. Eighteen kamikaze drones were intercepted en route. Also, Russian Tu-95 MS strategic bombers launched cruise missiles from the airspace over Russias Volgograd region. Eight aircraft were involved in the attack, having launched 17 Kh-101/Kh-555/Kh-55 cruise missiles. "All 17 were destroyed by Ukraines air defense forces over Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava, and Khmelnytskyi regions," the Air Force emphasized. As Ukrinform reported earlier, the air defense forces shot down over + Dnipropetrovsk region two cruise missiles fired by the Russian forces Monday morning. During the latest combined missile and drone attack on Ukraine in the early hours of Monday, September 18, Russia used an unprecedented number of aircraft. Thats according to Yuriy Ihnat, the spokesman for the Ukrainian Air Force, who spoke on the air of the national telethon, Ukrinform reports. "There was such an unprecedented number of warplanes involved. Several dozens of aircraft were in the airspace, precisely in the night hours, which is unusual. These were both drones and tactical aviation, which attacked Ukraine jointly as cruise missiles and Shaheds where launched. Air Force activity was intense," said Ihnat. At the same time, he noted that Ukraine should build up not only its own attack UAVs capabilities, but also air defenses. In particular, Ukraine needs F-16 aircraft, which would not be inferior in terms of tactical and technical features to Russian warplanes. "This weaponry is effective it works. That is why the production of drones of various types is seriously increasing in Ukraine," Ihnat added. As reported, Ukraine intercepted 18 of 24 incoming one-way attack drones of the Shahed-136/131 type and all 17 missiles of the Kh-101/Kh-555/Kh-55 types launched by Russia overnight Monday. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine showed how the soldiers of the Third Assault Brigade raised the flag over the liberated Andriivka, in the Donetsk region. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported this on Telegram and published the relevant photos, Ukrinform reports. The General Staff noted that although the village was liberated by the soldiers of the Third Brigade, it is now under constant shelling and enemy attempts to storm it. "Nevertheless, it was important to raise the Ukrainian flag here, as it means that Andriivka has completely passed under the control of the Ukrainian Armed Forces," the General Staff emphasized. Read also: Syrskyi shows Andriivka being liberated by Defense Forces The task was performed by the soldiers of the Second Mechanized Battalion. As reported, the Commander of the Land Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, showed how Ukrainian defenders liberated Andriivka, in the Donetsk region, from the invaders. Ukrainian forces want to get Russians out of their comfort zone. The relevant statement was made by Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate at the Ukrainian Defense Ministry Kyrylo Budanov in an interview with The Economist, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. We want to get them out of their comfort zone, Budanov said. The head of Ukraines defense intelligence agency spoke of the role of unmanned aerial vehicles in the combat missions of Ukraines Security and Defense Forces. Drones will definitely make the operations to liberate our territories easier. Drones have no fear. You dont feel sorry for them, Budanov told. In his words, there are three main objectives for Ukraines new drone campaign against Russia: to exhaust Russian air-defense systems; to disable military transport and bombers; and to damage military production facilities. As a secondary aim, it is intended to seed disquiet among the Russian population and disrupt economic processes inside Russia. Budanov rejected suggestions that the new strike capacity risks escalation, or casts Ukraine as an aggressor. No one believes the UK or United States were the aggressors in the Second World War, although they also bombed the territory of Germany, Budanov explained. According to him, since the war started, all kinds of conventional weapons had already been used, from submarines to strategic aviation. War has been a constant for Russia throughout its history, Budanov added, noting that there can be no discussion of a ceasefire or a peace without Ukraines military establishing its own facts on the ground. In his words, Ukraine understands that this war will not end with a victory parade in Moscow. But neither should Moscow ever hope to hold one in Kyiv, Budanov stressed. Photo: LIGA.net MOGADISHU, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) started the second phase of troop drawdown from Somalia Sunday with the handover of the Bio Cadale military base in the Hirshabelle State. Philippe Butoyi, the ATMIS commander for Bio Cadale, said the transfer of security responsibility was a testament to Somali leadership in rebuilding the country, protecting the population, and ensuring security and stability. "We have witnessed developments on the battlefield where Somali security forces have demonstrated their increasing capability to secure the country. We have seen the forces attack, seize and hold ground," Butoyi said in a statement issued in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, Sunday evening, adding that professionally trained and well-equipped Somali security forces are game changers in the fight against terrorism in Somalia. Bio Cadale base, which is under the Area of Responsibility of the ATMIS Burundi National Defense Forces, is strategic as it is a buffer zone to Jowhar town, the administrative headquarters of the Hirshabelle State, according to the statement. During the handover, the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), which provides logistical support to the ATMIS, also donated UN-owned equipment including a generator, water treatment plant, solar panels, boreholes, refrigerators, freezers, and water storage tanks. "UNSOS has also conducted training for SNA officers to enable them to operate and maintain the equipment," said Patrick Duah, the UNSOS chief of the Transition Planning Cell. The ATMIS is expected to scale down its troop numbers this month by a further 3,000 personnel after successfully withdrawing 2,000 troops and handing over six military bases in June. The ATMIS drawdown follows the UN Security Council Resolutions, which mandate the ATMIS to draw down 2,000 soldiers by June and a further 3,000 by the end of September. Any military assistance to the occupiers will create additional difficulties for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, but it will not change the situation at the front strategically Putin did not go to India for the G20 summit, fearing humiliation, but met with DPRK leader Kim Jong-un, and was squared. What did the world's No. 1 and No. 2 scum talk about, what were the results of their rendezvous, and what is the real threat to Ukraine from this perspective and what does China have to do with it? And yet, one cannot deny oneself the pleasure of realizing the fact that Putin's only open ally is the despised and hated by the whole world North Korean scarecrow, Kim Jong-un. Summit of outcasts: what kind of ally has Putin really found? Looking at all this entourage around Kim Jong-un's visit, which has already been dubbed the "summit of outcasts" by Russian propaganda, for some reason an old Soviet rhyme comes to mind, which we have slightly modified: Today is a holiday for the boys, The pioneers are rejoicing! Today I came to visit them, Kim un from the DPRK... Journalist Roman Tsymbalyuk shared his interesting impressions on this occasion in his YouTube blog: "The visit of the DPRK dictator was covered by Russian propaganda in such a way that it seemed that he was the most influential politician who had visited Russia. And State Duma deputy Gurulov enthusiastically talked about the allegedly powerful consequences of this visit on Skabeeva's show. (...) The former lieutenant general, who likes to threaten nuclear weapons, said that after Kim Jong-un's visit, "US hegemony is under threat." Gurulov said that the meeting between Putin and Kim Jong-un was "not check, but checkmate" to the Americans. And that the United States is now under the threat of a nuclear strike. Now, allegedly, the United States should think about whether to continue supplying weapons to Ukraine after the emergence of an alliance between Russia and the DPRK." As for the alliance... It is a well-known fact that Putin, having unleashed a full-scale war, has fallen out of the political major league and has descended far beyond the first one. However, even the totalitarian Iran and Belarus, which are considered Russia's main allies, are trying to maintain minimal signs of their participation in international law. This is not the case with the DPRK. Kim Jong-un doesn't even have such a word in his vocabulary, and he doesn't give a damn about any rights. Instead, Kim and his cronies are well aware of what amphetamine [a hard drug, for those who don't know,] counterfeit dollars, cyberpiracy, etc. are, because all of this is produced in the DPRK at the state level and is systematically distributed around the world. The DPRK is a criminal country that uses its presence in the international arena to earn currency by any means necessary, harming humanity in every way known. This is the kind of ally-friend that Putin has finally found. What could be a greater disgrace for a state and its leader in the world today? But the average Russian does not seem to care. And this is an exhaustive characterization of the average Russian. And now for the serious stuff: is there a threat from the rapprochement between Russia and the DPRK? According to political expert Andriy Senkiv, the results of the DPRK leader's visit to Russia could potentially have consequences not only for the Russian-Ukrainian war, but also for the whole world. "First, North Korea has an arsenal compatible with Russian systems (Soviet) and a military-industrial complex that can fill the gap between Russia's production and use of ammunition. First of all, we are talking about artillery shells and tactical ballistic missiles. It is also possible that Russia may try to modernize North Korean T-62 tanks to acceptable standards," the expert says. Pyongyang can also support Moscow in cyber warfare. "For its part, North Korea is looking for food, fuel, and medicine, as its reserves have been almost completely exhausted. Putin has made it clear that Russia is ready to help North Korea with satellite technology, which may include intercontinental ballistic missile technology, and technology for nuclear submarines," added Mr. Senkiv. Therefore, he believes that North Korea's substantial assistance to Russia could have an impact on the war in Ukraine. In addition, such cooperation could result in an overall improvement in their military capabilities and coordination of defense agencies, which would make them more dangerous in the future. "Second, Russia and the DPRK are China's partners. And these three states, possessing a nuclear arsenal, are striving for territorial expansion, and they may at some point decide to start wars simultaneously," the political scientist warns. - "However, although the DPRK has been supplying Russia with some types of ammunition for several months now, the real strengthening of their cooperation will be determined in Moscow and Beijing, not Pyongyang. However, it cannot be denied that the prospect of such a "friendship" between Russia and the DPRK has already put the White House on edge. The alarm bell is already ringing in the U.S., and no one is going to watch the development and fruits of this "friendship" from a distance. In particular, Ukraine may finally get what it has been seeking from overseas. The same long-range missiles, for example. And what about China?" This is Yevhen Savisky's assessment: "Xi Jinping decided to play his own game. The meeting between Putin and Kim in Vladivostok took place with his tacit blessing. The Chinese leader decided to both make money and make Washington nervous. After all, almost everything that the Kremlin dictator asked his North Korean counterpart for is produced in China." Will China, which is concerned about its "neutrality," go to the extent of supplying weapons to Russia using the DPRK as a hub? There are different opinions on this. Some believe that no, because such weapons and ammo can be identified, and sanctions will follow. Others, however, refer to historical experience: 40 years ago, the DPRK was already used as a hub for Soviet and Chinese weapons. Defense Express: DPRK has already resold weapons from "neutral" China "There is a possibility that the DPRK will become a hub for the transfer of weapons to the Russian Federation. Such cases have already happened in history and, interestingly, with almost the same participants. Back during the Iran-Iraq war, it was the DPRK that played the role of a transshipment point that took all the risks and sold weapons from China and the USSR to Iran," the military publication Defence Express said. The transfer of Soviet ammunition to Iran from the DPRK was realized almost immediately after the start of the Iran-Iraq war in 1980. After that, the sale of Chinese equipment from the DPRK's warehouses and Soviet T-54 and T-55 tanks, as well as T-62 tanks of its own licensed production, began. The sale of Soviet small arms and mortars was also active, and the USSR also sold the Strela-2 man-portable air defense system to Iran through the DPRK. "It is believed that the Chinese anti-ship missiles HY-2 Silkworm, which were a copy of the Soviet P-15 Termit, got to Iran in a similar way. The DPRK was also directly involved in supplying Iran with more than a hundred Chinese Shenyang J-6 fighters (copies of the Soviet MiG-19)," the journalists report. In total, as of 1985, three years before the end of the war, the United States estimated Chinese arms exports to Iran at $2.5 billion. Given the price of "greenbacks" at the time, this was a colossal amount. Of course, China denied supplying any weapons to Iran. What's more, China officially stated every time that it was steadfastly neutral. And if a country resells Chinese weapons to another country, Beijing has no influence on it. "And this historical parallel, even the identity of Beijing's statements, does not add confidence that history will not repeat itself. At the same time, China's military-industrial complex, as well as its weapons stockpiles, are many times more threatening than the DPRK's capabilities," writes Defence Express. No matter what weapons/munitions Russia receives from the DPRK, it will not have a global impact on the course of the war "North Korea has a large amount of ammunition: old Soviet, self-produced and Chinese. They have previously transferred Soviet shells, missiles for Grad, and mortar shells. Most likely, there will be this kind of substitution. The Chinese will not send their products directly to Russia. They are afraid of tough sanctions. Therefore, the Chinese will restore the amount of ammunition in North Korea that it will give to the Russians, both their own and Soviet-made," says Roman Svitan, a retired colonel of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. According to the military expert, North Korea can provide Russia with up to 2 million shells within a year. It will not be possible to transfer all of them at once due to logistical problems: "Russians produce about 2 million shells a year on their own. This is about 7,000 rounds per day. Now they are using about 15,000 shells. If North Korea had not supplied them with its weapons, they would have gone from 15,000 to 7,000, and would have been working off the wheels," explained Mr. Svitan. So, he argues, the supply of ammunition from the DPRK will not increase the number of shells the Russians have. It will simply leave them at the same level - about 15,000 per day. "North Korea has a fairly wide range of cannon artillery, multiple launch rocket systems, which are identical in caliber to Russian ones. And the same with tanks. They have a wide variety of T-62 tanks of their own production with 115-caliber and 125-caliber barrels. Russia really needs the equipment. This is also a deficit moment," adds Oleksandr Kovalenko, a columnist for the Information Resistance group. However, he also assures that no matter what types of weapons and ammunition Russia receives from Kim Jong-un, it will not have a significant impact on the situation at the front. By the way, in 2010, the DPRK fired 170 missiles at the South Korean island of Yeonpyeong. According to Reuters, half of them fell into the water, and about 20% of those that reached the island did not explode. "We are talking about a distance of more than 10,000 kilometers... This is hellish logistics. In addition, North Korea has a degraded railroad: they are unable to export ammunition 24/7. And in order to provide Russia with 15-20,000 rounds per day, a lot of ammunition needs to be exported. The DPRK will not be physically able to provide them with this amount of shells and ammunition. The most they can do is to compensate for the deficit on an ad hoc basis. This will not have a global impact on the course of the war," the military expert summarized. Myroslav Liskovych. Kyiv New images have been released on social media, showing the extent of damage to Russia's Rostov-on-Don submarine that was hit in Sevastopol last week. Oryx reported this on the X social media platform, according to Ukrinform. "Released photographs reveal the full extent of the damage endured by the 'Rostov-na-Donu' submarine following the attack that occurred last week," the tweet reads. Powerful explosions rang out in temporarily occupied Sevastopol overnight into Wednesday. Russia's Defense Ministry reported a cruise missile attack on the Ordzhonikidze shipyard in temporarily occupied Sevastopol, which damaged two warships. According to OSINTtechnical analysts, a large Ropucha-class large landing ship and a Kilo-class submarine were damaged in the attack. Ukraine's military intelligence official, Andrii Yusov, said the ships damaged by the attack were unlikely to be repaired. British intelligence believes that Russia will unlikely be able to quickly restore the Rostov-on-Don submarine and the Minsk large landing ship that were hit in Sevastopol. Photos in the text: Oryx / X Russian troops struck Avdiivka and the outskirts of Toretsk, Donetsk region, on September 18, killing two civilians and wounding another. Ukraine's Prosecutor General's Office said this in a Telegram post, Ukrinform reports. According to the investigation, at 07:30 on September 18, the Russian army likely used artillery to hit the village of Pivnichne in the Toretsk city territorial community. A cyclist was killed by the explosion of an enemy shell. Another local was outside during the attack and sustained a shrapnel wound to the chest. At 11:45, the Russian army used aircraft to launch a missile attack on Avdiivka. A woman was killed in the yard of her household when a projectile hit private houses. Pre-trial investigations have been launched into violations of the laws and customs of war (Part 2 of Article 438 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine). Russian invaders killed one and wounded four civilians in the Donetsk region on Sunday, September 17. Ukraine and Switzerland have discussed humanitarian demining, the participation of Swiss companies in Ukraine's recovery and the strengthening of economic cooperation. That's according to the press service of the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine, Ukrinform reports. "We hope to strengthen cooperation with Switzerland in a number of areas. First and foremost, this is the area of humanitarian demining, in which Switzerland plays a leading role in the world. This is participation in recovery projects. Undoubtedly, Ukraine is interested in investments and joint projects of Swiss and Ukrainian businesses, strengthening of economic and trade cooperation," said First Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine, Minister of Economy Yulia Svyrydenko. During the meeting, the parties discussed topical issues of humanitarian demining. Svyrydenko said Ukraine was currently completing the preparation of the working wording of the National Mine Action Strategy. The project will be presented during a major event on humanitarian demining, which will soon take place in Ukraine. The Ministry of Economy also spoke about the current state of survey and clearance of Ukrainian lands, the available capabilities of mine clearing operators and the need for equipment, machinery, qualified bomb disposal experts, etc. Currently, Ukraine is intensively working with partners on contracting the necessary equipment. Moreover, Ukraine is interested not only in the supply of, for example, mine-clearing vehicles, but also in the localization of their production in Ukraine. During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on the efforts that the governments of the two countries should make to promote contacts between Ukrainian and Swiss businesses, and to strengthen economic cooperation between the countries. Photo: Ministry of Economy of Ukraine Ukraines Defense Forces have successfully repelled numerous enemy attacks in the Bakhmut, Marinka and Zaporizhzhia directions. The relevant statement was made by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. Over 20 combat engagements have occurred on the front in the past 24 hours. The operational situation is remaining challenging in eastern and southern Ukraine. In the Melitopol direction, Ukraines offensive operation is underway. In the Bakhmut direction, Ukrainian forces continue conducting offensive (assault) actions, eliminating the enemy and step by step liberating the temporarily occupied areas. Ukraines Air Force launched eight strikes on Russian personnel, ammunition and military equipment clusters. Ukrainian missile and artillery units hit two enemy personnel, ammunition and military equipment clusters, one surface-to-air missile system, one command post, and six artillery systems. Russian troops launched 17 missile strikes and 33 air strikes, and opened fire with multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) on Ukrainian positions and settlements 26 times. Last night Russia attacked Ukraines territory with missiles and Shahed-136/131 suicide drones. In the Volyn and Polissia directions, the operational situation remained rather unchanged. In the Siverskyi and Slobozhanskyi directions, over 15 settlements were affected by Russian artillery and mortar strikes in the Chernihiv, Sumy and Kharkiv regions. In the Kupiansk direction, Russians launched air strikes on the Kharkiv regions Berestove, Kopanky and Shyikivka, as well as artillery and mortar strikes on Dvorichna, Synkivka, Petropavlivka, Ivanivka and Kyslivka. In the Lyman direction, Russian invaders launched air strikes near the Luhansk regions Bilohorivka and the Donetsk regions Novosadove. Over 10 settlements were affected by enemy artillery and mortar strikes. In the Bakhmut direction, Ukrainian forces successfully repelled numerous Russian attacks near the Donetsk regions Klishchiivka. Near Andriivka, Russians made attempts to recapture their lost positions but had no success. The enemy launched an air strike near Bakhmut. Over 10 settlements were affected by Russian artillery and mortar strikes. In the Avdiivka direction, Russian occupiers launched air strikes near Avdiivka. About 10 settlements were affected by enemy artillery and mortar strikes. In the Marinka direction, Ukrainian defenders repelled about 10 Russian attacks near the Donetsk regions Marinka. Near Krasnohorivka, the enemy launched an air strike. In the Shakhtarske direction, Russians launched air strikes near Vuhledar and Staromaiorske. In the Zaporizhzhia direction, Ukrainian forces repelled Russian attacks near the Zaporizhzhia regions Robotyne. Over 15 settlements were affected by enemy artillery and mortar strikes. Russians launched air strikes near Mala Tokmachka and Robotyne. In the Kherson direction, Russian troops launched air strikes near the Kherson regions Vesele, Odradokamianka and Mykolaivka. About 10 settlements were affected by enemy artillery and mortar strikes. Germany will provide a new military aid package for Ukraine, totaling EUR 400 million. The relevant statement was made by German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius in an interview with Bild on the eve of the upcoming meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. We are supplying additional ammunition: high explosive rounds, mortar munitions, mine and rocket ammunition. Ammunition is what Ukraine needs the most in its defense against the brutal war of aggression. In addition, we will help with armored vehicles and demining systems. In view of the upcoming winter, we will send clothing, as well as power and heat generators. The total cost of the package will be EUR 400 million, Pistorius told. The German minister has been tested positive to Covid-19 today and, thus, will be unable to attend Tuesdays meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in person. A reminder that last week Germany sent another military aid package to Ukraine, including Marder infantry fighting vehicles, mine clearing tanks, and artillery rounds. The Czech Republic has already provided Ukraine with 45 tons of humanitarian aid for the countrys energy infrastructure. Thats according to the Ukrainian Energy Ministry, Ukrinform reports. Deputy Minister Yaroslav Demchenkov held a meeting with the Czech government delegation, including Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Czech Republic to Ukraine Radek Matula, the Government Envoy for Reconstruction of Ukraine with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic Tomas Kopecny, and the National Security Advisor at the Office of the Government of the Czech Republic Tomas Pojar. Demchenkov briefed his counterparts on the current situation of the Ukrainian energy sector, as well as the progress of repair and restoration works in preparation for the next heating season. The deputy minister thanked the Czech Republic for the assistance provided to the Ukrainian energy sector and emphasized the urgent needs of energy companies. "Twelve shipments of humanitarian aid with a total weight of about 45 tons have already arrived in Ukraine from the Czech Republic, including electric current transformers, voltage transformers, cars, as well as other equipment necessary for carrying out restoration work on objects that were subjected to Russian attacks," the report said. At the meeting, the parties paid special attention to the issues of deepening cooperation in the field of renewable and nuclear energy. The Czech side confirmed its interest in the implementation of projects related to the recovery and development of the Ukrainian energy sector, including in the field of wind and solar energy. They also discussed the preparation of a corresponding memorandum between the two countries, which will serve as a signal for businesses and private capital to participate in relevant joint projects. The participants also confirmed their mutual interest in the development of cooperation in the hydrogen industry. In particular, joint studies of the gas transport network between Ukraine, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic for hydrogen transmission, its use for industry and other consumers in these countries and, in the future, Germany, were discussed. The parties also discussed the prospects of cooperation in the nuclear industry and at the international level to ensure nuclear and radiation safety. As Ukrinform reported earlier, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, Jan Lipavsky, said his country would support Ukraine on the path to achieving peace, which is possible only on Ukrainian terms and principles of international law. The head of Ukraines defense intelligence agency expects Russias economy to hold out only until 2025. The relevant statement was made by Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate at the Ukrainian Defense Ministry Kyrylo Budanov in an interview with The Economist, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. According to Budanov, as far as other components of the war effort are concerned, Russian resources are being exhausted, and a reckoning is coming. Russias economy will hold out only until 2025, Budanov said. In his words, the flow of weapons will dry up in 2026, perhaps earlier, and Putins talks with North Korea are an obvious indication of his problems. If everything is fine and Russia has enough resources, why are they looking for them all over the world? The answer is obvious. There is nothing to extract any more, Budanov explained. At the same time, Russia is still retaining an advantage in terms of headcount. Human resources in Russia are, relatively speaking, unlimited. The quality is low, but the quantity is sufficient, Budanov noted. Meanwhile, Budanov rejected rumors about a decline in the readiness of Western partners to continue support for Ukraine at the same level. It is still absolutely undecided how long the West will be able to maintain a sufficient supply of resources to us. Warehouses in Western countries are not completely empty. No matter what anyone says, Budanov emphasized, referring to the intelligence data. However, Ukraine risks running down its own resources too. We are dependent on external players. Russia is mostly dependent on itself, Budanov admitted. A long war is therefore dangerous for Ukraine because it exhausts not only its domestic resources. Prime Minister of Romania Marcel Ciolacu says Bucharest can extend the trade ban on the import of grain from Ukraine for another 30 days. This is reported by Reuters, Ukrinform saw. He stated that Romania had not received inquiries to import grain from Ukraine since Friday, adding that he did not want a repeat of the situation that affected Romanian farmers earlier this year. "The Ukrainian prime minister promised to send the export licensing proposal today, which we will discuss," Ciolacu said. "If there will be export requests to Romania I will ask the agriculture and economy ministers to draft an order extending the ban for a period of 30 days until things are clarified." As reported, in May 2023 the European Commission banned the import of Ukrainian wheat, corn, rapeseed, and sunflower to Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, and Romania at the insistence of these countries. On June 5, the ban was extended until September 15, 2023. On September 15, the European Commission announced that the European Union would not further extend temporary restrictions on Ukraines grain exports to the five neighboring countries that are all members of the EU. Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia have announced their intention to unilaterally block the import of Ukrainian agricultural products. Five Eastern-flank EU countries (Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria) do not agree to Ukraine's proposals for further grain exports to the European market. In light of Kyiv's statements about its readiness to file a claim against Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary with the World Trade Organization (WTO) over a unilateral embargo on Ukrainian grain, these countries are pulling out of further negotiations within the Coordination Platform regarding the export of Ukrainian grain to the European market, Ukrinform reports with reference to PAP. As the Polish agency notes, according to Kyiv's action plan to stabilize grain exports to the EU, the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine should independently make decisions on granting permits for grain exports to the EU, even if EU countries oppose such permits. Decisions regarding permits would have to be consulted with EU countries and the European Commission, but the final decision would with Kyiv. Read also: Romania may extend ban on Ukrainian grain for 30 days It is emphasized that Poland's ambassador to the EU, Andrzej Sados, criticized Ukraine's new proposal, noting that, in Warsaw's opinion, it does not solve the issue of controlling and limiting the flow of Ukrainian grain to the domestic market. As noted, in view of Ukraine's application for WTO arbitration against Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia over unilateral restrictions on Ukrainian grain exports, the three countries will not participate in the Coordination Platform on the Export of Ukrainian Grain, hosted in in Brussels and involving the European Commission, Ukraine, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria. "Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia are withdrawing from the platform due to caution in the process, as well as the fact that Ukraine could use the information transmitted within the Coordination Platform against the three countries in the WTO arbitration," a source told PAP European Commission. As reported, in May 2023 the European Commission banned the import of Ukrainian wheat, corn, rapeseed, and sunflower to Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, and Romania at the insistence of these countries. On June 5, the ban was extended until September 15, 2023. On September 15, the European Commission announced that the European Union would not further extend temporary restrictions on Ukraines grain exports to the five neighboring countries that are all members of the EU. Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia have announced their intention to unilaterally block the import of Ukrainian agricultural products. In this regard, Ukraine plans to take action against the three countries within the WTO. SANAA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Tribal gunmen launched an attack and detonated explosives at an oil well and pipeline in Yemen's central province of Marib on Monday, said a local source. "Tribal gunmen bombed on Monday morning the oil well and pipeline in the field of As'ad al-Kamil, about 20 km east of Safer oil fields," the source in the field told Xinhua on condition of anonymity. Firefighters have managed to extinguish the pipeline fire, but efforts continue to control the well fire, the source said, adding no casualties were caused by the attack. The motivation behind the attack remains unclear. The oil fields in Marib, a crucial oil production hub in Yemen, have been targeted by tribal and terrorist groups in similar incidents over the past years. Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi militia took over several northern provinces and forced the Saudi-backed Yemeni government out of the capital Sanaa. Bulgarian farmers have begun blocking a number of important road and checkpoints across the country as part of an indefinite nationwide agricultural protest that began on September 18 in response to the permission to import grain from Ukraine. According to Ukrinform, Novinite reported this. Over 40 important points on Bulgaria's roads have already been blocked by a nationwide protest to save Bulgarian agriculture. Georgi Milev, Deputy Chairman of the National Grain Producers Association, said that the trips should only be made in cases of emergency, as heavy agricultural machinery is being moved. More than 300 farmers with tractors, heavy machinery and other equipment gathered at the exit from Stara Zagora towards the Trakia highway. The Varna-Burgas highway is closed in both directions in the Haramiyat area. Traffic is also stopped from the Asparuhov Bridge. It is not yet known how long the blockade will last. In addition to the demands for a ban on Ukrainian grain and food, as well as the urgent payment of state aid, the protesters demanded the governments resignation. As Ukrinform reported, Bulgarian Prime Minister Nikolai Denkov called farmers (who were preparing for protests over the country's refusal to ban grain imports from Ukraine) "terrorists." The Bulgarian Parliament allowed the import of Ukrainian grain on September 15. Photo from novinite.com Next week, at the UN General Assembly, the European Union will use the opportunity to reiterate its steadfast support for Ukraine and the need to reform the Security Council, whose decisions are blocked by Russia. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell said this in a blog on the website of the European External Action Service, Ukrinform reports. "This week comes indeed at a crucial moment for the world and the multilateral system. With its war of aggression against Ukraine, Russia, a nuclear power and permanent member of the UN Security Council, trampled on the UN Charter. Despite repeated calls by the UN General Assembly to comply with its responsibility, Russia is preventing the Security Council from fulfilling its role, not only in Ukraine but also elsewhere, thus threatening the credibility of the whole United Nations system," he said. According to him, in order to restore the unique legitimacy of the UN, it is urgent "to make the Security Council more representative to reflect the changes that have taken place in the world and in particular give Africa a voice." Borrell noted that coming on the heels of the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia's war against one of the world's main breadbaskets threatens global food security and is aggravating the global cost-of-living crisis. "This affects all countries but particularly the weakest and poorest ones. In August 2022, the UN played a decisive role to alleviate this pain with the Black Sea Grain Initiative (BSGI). However, last July Russia decided to abandon this deal. We will discuss with UN Secretary General Guterres the ways and means to revive it," he said. "We will again use this year's High Level Week to explain our unwavering support for Ukraine and rally countries from every corner of the world to team up with us in defense of the UN charter and refusal of Russia's neoimperialism. We cannot go back to a world where 'might makes right.' This would imperil the security of all nations, big and small, particularly of developing and emerging ones," Borrell wrote. He added that the EU attaches special importance to the activities of the UN, especially in difficult times experienced by the multilateral world system, when rifts are widening all over the world and global leadership is absent, insufficient or fractured. According to Borrell, it is now necessary to reverse such a trend. "The EU wants to not only preserve the UN and the multilateral system but also modernize and strengthen a rules-based world order, rooted in the values of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. At a time when others are attempting to redefine the world order based on illiberal values, the need for the EU and the UN to come together has never been higher," he said. On Monday, September 18, the International Court of Justice in The Hague will resume hearings in Ukraine's lawsuit against Russia over a violation of the Genocide Convention. According to an Ukrinform correspondent, public hearings of preliminary objections raised by Russia will be held on September 18-27. The hearings will be held in two rounds: Russia will present its arguments on September 18 and 25 and Ukraine on September 19 and 27. The dispute concerns the interpretation, application and enforcement of the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide. In a lawsuit to the International Court of Justice, Ukraine is demanding that the Russian Federation be held accountable for distorting the concept of "genocide." Ukraine filed the lawsuit on February 26, 2022, two days after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The Kremlin accused Kyiv of genocide, which Ukraine allegedly committed in Donbas, starting in 2014. Russia used this as a reason to send troops to Ukraine and carry out a full-scale invasion of the country on February 24, 2022. The parties will present their positions, including the countries that took the initiative to join the case. Some 32 states joined the case with their interventions. They will also take part in the court hearing. On June 5, 2023, the International Court of Justice adopted an order that the interventions of 32 states were admissible. This is an unprecedented number of countries in history: 34 of the 193 UN members, that is, almost 20 percent, are participating in the process. The court will hold a hearing on jurisdiction, and if the court finds that it has jurisdiction and that the claim is admissible in whole or in part, then the next step is to hear the case on its merits. Former Slovak prime minister and opposition leader Robert Fico, whose party could claim victory in snap parliamentary elections this month, plans to withdraw defense assistance for Ukraine. Thats according to the Associated Press, Ukrinform reports. It is noted that Fico, who was in power in Slovakia from 2006 to 2010 and from 2012 to 2018, is the main contender for the prime ministers post. He and his left-wing Smer party are running an election campaign that highlights pro-Russian and anti-American agenda. If Smer joins the government, Slovakia will no longer send weapons and ammunition to Ukraine, according to Fico. No amount of Western weapons arriving in Ukraine will change the course of the war, Fico believes. He noted that the EU and the U.S. should use their influence to force Moscow and Ukraine to conclude a compromise truce. As Ukrinform reported earlier, in May 2023, Slovakian President Zuzana Caputova said she intended to sue the opposition leader and former Prime Minister Robert Fico for his comments after he branded her an "American agent." Fico has consistently opposed military aid to Ukraine and called for a diplomatic solution to the war, which Moscow has been waging since the end of February 2022. Ukrainesformer permanent representative to the UN Volodymyr Yelchenko suggests that the new countries named by the U.S. as potential permanent members of the UN Security Council will not agree to this if they are not provided with a right of veto. The diplomat expressed this opinion on the air of the national telethon, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. The former ambassador noted that the right of veto gives the current permanent members of the Security Council a certain status in the world and the opportunity to influence international global processes. According to him, no one will voluntarily refuse this status. "Regarding the issue of new members of the Security Council, named by the U.S. president or American diplomats, ... all these proposals refer to permanent membership without the right of veto. None of these countries - neither Japan, nor Brazil, nor Germany, nor India, nor any other country - will ever agree to be permanent members without the right of veto," Yelchenko said. He noted that permanent membership in the UN Security Council and the right of veto is an indivisible status and that "no one will go there without it." As reported, the White House strategic communications coordinator John Kirby said on September 18 that U.S. President Joe Biden will propose at the session of the UN General Assembly that the composition of the UNSC be expanded to include five to six new permanent members, including India, Brazil, Germany and Japan. Brazil and South Africa are considered in the U.S. as possible permanent members. Currently, the UN Security Council consists of five permanent members: China, the Russian Federation, the United States, the United Kingdom, and France. It also has 10 non-permanent members who are elected for two-year terms. The current structure of the United Nations does not correspond to the realities and new challenges therefore it requires reform. This was stated by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Germany, Annalena Baerbock, who spoke before the start of the UN General Assembly, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. "The UN reflects the world of the last century, not this century. Therefore, it needs to be upgraded," the diplomat said. She noted the increasingly important role of Asia, Africa, and Latin America, which are underrepresented in various UN bodies. The head of the German Foreign Ministry reported that Germany, together with Namibia, is preparing a Congress on the future of the UN, which is set to be held next year. Berlin is also working with countries such as Brazil, India, and Japan on the issue of reforming the UN Security Council. According to Baerbock, the Federal Republic of Germany will run for the post of a non-permanent member of the Security Council for the period of 2027-2028. The diplomat recalled that exactly 50 years ago, Germany became a member of the UN, which was founded as a reaction to the horrific crimes of Nazi Germany the Holocaust and the outbreak of the Second World War. Therefore, according to the minister, membership in the UN imposes on Berlin a special responsibility for maintaining the world order, which is based on rules that should primarily protect the rights of weaker countries, for compliance with the UN Charter and human rights. "And we constantly make it clear that we are responsible when the rules of a peaceful world order are flouted. This is especially relevant in the context of the brutal war waged by the Russian Federation," said the head of the German Foreign Ministry. She noted that the current UN General Assembly is particularly important in view of the problems that the war unleashed by Russia has caused for the most vulnerable countries. "It is really surprising that some countries around Russia are questioning the very issues of the weakest in this world, the issues of food security and health care, etc.," Baerbock said. As reported, the UN General Assembly is being held in New York this week. Photo by Olha Tanasiychuk Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in the United States to take part in the high-level meetings of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly. This is reported by an Ukrinform correspondent from New York. From the airport, the Head of State went to Staten Island University Hospital to meet with the wounded Ukrainian servicemen, who are undergoing treatment and rehabilitation there. On Tuesday, the President of Ukraine will speak at the General Debate of the UN General Assembly. During the second half of the day, Zelensky will attend the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Summit. United States. New York. Directly from the airport, I am going to our warriors who are undergoing treatment and rehabilitation in the USA. Support for our people and gratitude to those who help Ukraine and Ukrainians come first. Important and busy days are ahead. The UN General Assembly, SDG Summit, Security Council. Important bilateral meetings have already been scheduled, President Zelensky wrote on Telegram. In Washington, the Head of State is planning to hold talks with the President of the United States, leaders of the U.S. Congress chambers and parties, military leadership, American businesses, journalists, and members of the Ukrainian community. In particular, President Zelensky will thank the United States for its assistance in Ukraines struggle for independence and freedom. Territorial integrity of the state is the key principle of all basic international documents, including the UN Charter. And it is necessary to restore its full force, which had been destroyed by the Russian invasion, and to increase the capabilities of the UN to stop aggressions and prevent them. Ukraine will make a clear proposal in this regard to UN members, Zelensky stressed. A reminder that, on September 21, 2023, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will meet with United States President Joseph Biden in Washington. Russia has been widely infiltrating Orthodox church in the U.S. to recruit intelligence sources, which has been confirmed by an FBI probe. Thats according to CNNs Erin Burnett, Ukrinform reports. Potential sources across nearly 2,300 parishes in the United States could be coerced to participated in intelligence operations via blackmail, the FBI report says. According to Russias independent journalist Andrei Soldatov, who joined CNN to comment on the issue, the most important part of this story is that the Russian Orthodox Church is apparently quite happy with being used by Russian intelligence and security agencies not only by providing ideological ammunition for the war but also by direct cooperation, according to a church memorandum drawn up back in 2009, which laid down rules of cooperation with the Russian security bloc. The document allows for helping and providing operational support in intelligence efforts, Soldatov claims. The Orthodox Churchs presence across the U.S. is growing, the journalist notes, largely due to its appeal to traditional family values that many Americans seek to relate to so some Protestants are converting. As Ukrinform reported earlier, the Russian Orthodox Church has been widely supporting the Russian invasion of Ukraine, calling on parishioners to join the army and go fight against Ukraine and justifying the war. Ukraine and the European Commission will develop cooperation in the areas of medical evacuation, mental health and European integration. According to the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, this issue was discussed during an online meeting between Ukrainian Health Minister Viktor Liashko and European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety Stella Kyriakides, Ukrinform reports. "During the meeting, [both parties] discussed the extension of the program for medical evacuation of war-affected Ukrainians to clinics in European countries and their return to Ukraine after undergoing treatment. Thanks to this cooperation, it has already been possible to send about 4,000 Ukrainians for treatment and/or rehabilitation abroad, including 650 children with injuries and cancer diseases," the report reads. Agreement was also reached on the implementation of joint projects in the field of mental health as part of cooperation with the European Commission. The Ministry of Health recalled that mental health was a key topic discussed at the Third Summit of First Ladies and Gentlemen. Currently, the All-Ukrainian Mental Health Program is being implemented in Ukraine on the initiative of First Lady Olena Zelenska. Its purpose is to contribute to the formation of a culture of mental health care in society. In the field of European integration processes, the parties discussed key areas of joint work, including public health and cross-border threats, medical services and safety of biomaterials, pharmaceutical industry. Liashko thanked the commissioner for including Ukraine on equal terms with EU countries to participate in the EU4Health program. More than a year after a respective agreement was signed between Ukraine and the European Union, it was already possible to start the implementation of nine projects, which is a significant support for Ukrainian institutions working in the field of health care. Photo: Ministry of Health of Ukraine Due to the "I Want to Live" project launched by the Ukrainian government, 216 Russian soldiers surrendered over the past 12 months, and more than a thousand servicemen are waiting to be transferred across the front line. The Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War announced this via Telegram, publishing the yearly performance report, seen by Ukrinform. As the HQ recalled, this month marks 12 months since the projects launch. It is noted that over 48 million people from Russia and the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine visited the "I want to live" website. Russias telecom watchdog Roskomnadzor blocked 256 of the platforms domains. Within the projects framework, 21 operations were completed for the extraction of surrendered soldiers. In some cases, Russian soldiers would also bring military equipment. Another 1,072 people are on standby, waiting for their turn to be safely transferred across the front line. "Of course, the project does not stop there. After the successful implementation of Operation Sinytsia (involving a desertion of a Russian war pilot who flew his helicopter to Ukraine before surrendering), the number of applications from Russians continues to grow. Every day, we receive through multiple channels dozens of applications from active servicemen of the Russian army and beyond," the Coordination HQ noted. It is emphasized that applying to the "I want to live" project is the only real opportunity for the Russian military to return home alive. As Ukrinform reported earlier, the "I Want to Live" project received more than 25,000 applications from Russian soldiers willing to surrender. JERUSALEM, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Israeli Ministry of Health reported on Monday a significant rise in cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, in recent months. In April, there were 94 new pertussis cases in Israel, including a 10-week-old baby who died of the disease. There were 99 new cases in May, 122 in June, 190 in July, and 166 new cases in August, according to a statement issued by the ministry. These figures show a sharp increase compared to a total of 22 new cases registered in January-March, and 17 cases in all of 2022, according to ministry data. The ministry noted that most of the cases were in the Jerusalem area, but many other cases were detected all over Israel. It added that the infection is particularly high in densely populated areas with low vaccination rates. Most significant morbidity and hospitalizations were among unvaccinated babies less than six months old, according to the statement. Pertussis is a highly contagious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, which multiplies in the respiratory tract. The disease can cause complications and even threaten lives, especially for babies. The ministry recommended vaccinating women in the third trimester of pregnancy, allowing the mother to develop antibodies and pass them through the placenta to the fetus in the womb. This way, the newborn baby is protected until the first vaccine, administered at the age of six weeks. facebook like button Tweet tweet button for twitter Published September 18, 2023 MONROE, LA The University of Louisiana Monroe is celebrating a number of enrollment increases in key areas at the beginning of the 2023-2024 academic year. The university saw a 4% increase in First Time Freshmen, a 4% increase in transfer students, and a 10% increase in Dual Enrollment students. Overall enrollment is up 62 total students compared to fall 2022. The ULM Honors Program is celebrating an overall enrollment increase of 38%. A total of 132 freshmen joined the program this year, making it the largest-ever freshman class for the program. The inaugural cohort of the Doctor of Physical Therapy program launched this semester with 49 students enrolled. Additionally, the Doctor of Education program has a total of 252 students enrolled, the largest number to date. The online Ed. D. program includes students from all over the U.S. and is one of the few of its kind in the state. Overall, the enrollment increase demonstrates the hard work of several dedicated staff and faculty that are dedicated to meeting our students needs, said Dr. Mark Arant, ULM Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs. The staff in Recruitment and Admissions worked incredibly hard this year to be successful. Because we are seeing increases through both new and recently innovated programs, ULM is making the case for the relevancy of a college degree by remaining diligent in our offerings, added Arant. Dr. Joshua Stockley, Director of the ULM Honors Program, says the record freshman class boasts an average GPA of 3.85 and includes 21 valedictorians. Although the Honors Program does not require a minimum test score for admission, the average ACT for the class is 28 and the average SAT is 1325. Collectively, the freshman class represents 31 unique majors for all four undergraduate colleges. The first thing that stands out is the strength of this freshman class; however, and equally exciting, is their diversity, enthusiasm, leadership, and future potential, said Stockley. International students comprise 23% of the Honors Program freshman class. The Honors Program is the highlight of the international students experience for many, said Gina White, Director of International Student Services and Multicultural Affairs. The program is an excellent opportunity for international students to cultivate a more intimate educational experience while here at ULM. The expertise and resources that they are afforded during the program make for an even more rewarding experience while studying here, said White. The ULM Honors Program provides students seeking a more holistic interdisciplinary approach to their college experience something extraordinary, said Lisa Miller, ULM Vice President of Enrollment Management and University Relations. As the stellar reputation of this program continues to spread, students from around the globe are taking notice which leads to increased enrollment, Miller added that students who participate in the Honors Program are leaders across campus and are highly sought out by employers and professional programs. Freshman Honors Program student Deacon Ivan James said he knew he wanted to make ULM his home from the moment he took his first step on campus. The honors program is full of opportunities: I have made friends who are pushing me to be the best version of myself. The professors are very approachable, kind, smart, and helpful. I am looking forward to these next few years, said James. Our growth is the product of students, parents, and high schools recognizing the academic excellence of the University of Louisiana Monroe and the unique opportunities offered by the ULM Honors Program, said Stockley. We offer a curriculum the FLIGHT Program that is unlike any other honors program in the state. We are not just the best on the bayou, we are the best in Louisiana at what we do. The ULM Honors Program is a unique program that seeks intellectually curious students who desire to challenge themselves with new ideas and to work with similarly motivated students. The program is open to all majors and offers various options while working within the degree. Honors students are exposed to more in-depth topics and work closely with the Honors Faculty. Honors students learn in smaller, discussion-based courses. Additionally, Honors students are eligible for exclusive Honors Housing in Bayou Suites, as well as extra Honors-only scholarships. Learn more at https://www.ulm.edu/honors/program | By Emily Chappell and Lorri Angelloz When Laundette Jones was just 11, she spent seven months living in a tent. And it wasnt the only time in her childhood she was unhoused. You know how you feel when youre driving down [Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard] and you go over the overpass, and you see people living in a tent? Well, I know the perspectives of being in a tent and looking at others when they look down on it, too, said Jones, PhD, MPH, an associate professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health at the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM). For Jones, those months spent living in a tent, with her mother cooking dinner often Rice-A-Roni over a campfire, seem like a lifetime ago. In the years since, shes earned a bachelors degree in chemistry, her PhD in environmental health, and two postdoctoral appointments. In 2005, she landed a faculty position at UMSOM. More recently, she also received her Master of Public Health. But the challenging moments throughout her childhood are what help Jones to understand others lived experiences in a way a formal education couldnt provide. On the academic side, I feel multilingual. I have a background in basic sciences. I also have the community and population and public health, Jones said. But I also have unique knowledge and a lived experience, where I dont have to read about what it means [to be in] poverty, or to go through simulated experiences. Ive lived through it. Jones was just one voice in a group of health and social services experts who spoke at the second annual University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) Faculty Convocation on Sept. 14. In addition to Jones, Glenn Canares, DDS, MSD, clinical assistant professor, University of Maryland School of Dentistry, and Amal Mattu, MD, professor, UMSOM, gave TED-like talks to a gathering of faculty and staff under a tent at Koesters Lot. And while each speech from Jones, Canares, and Mattu to those given by Roger J. Ward, EdD, JD, MSL, MPA, provost and executive vice president, and UMB President Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS covered different topics, they shared the same common thread of values: bringing change and improving the human condition through community engagement and kindness, one step at a time. The choice is ours. The choice before us is we could wait for somebody the city, the state, I dont know who to come by and fix the problems, clean up the risks around our campus, Jarrell said. But, he added, we might be waiting a long time, and in that time, the University could falter. We dont want that, Jarrell said. Well, we have another choice. The other choice is to actively engage to step up as a university. I know thats what Im going to do. And I know I can count on all of you to support us in this effort to make this environment a greater environment. The event kicked off the 2023-2024 academic calendar and was designed to inspire faculty and staff for the academic year. The program also featured the recognition of UMBs newest cohort of Distinguished University Professors. For Jodi J. Frey, PhD, LCSW-C, CEAP, professor, University of Maryland School of Social Work, the convocation was the perfect way to celebrate the start of the semester. I thought the speakers were incredible, the way that they gave us action steps to take as we leave here to make human connection, Frey said. UMBS 2023 DISTINGUISHED UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS The title of Distinguished University Professor is the highest appointment bestowed on a faculty member at UMB. It is a recognition not just of excellence, but also of impact and significant contribution to the nominees field, knowledge, profession, and/or practice. William T. Carpenter, MD Professor, Department of Psychiatry and Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, School of Medicine Carpenters major professional interest has been severe mental illness, especially schizophrenia, including phenomenology, etiology, pathophysiology, anatomy, and treatment. He has made original and fundamental contributions in psychopathology, assessment methodology, testing of novel treatments, and research ethics. His specific professional assignments include service on the National Institute of Mental Healths (NIMH) Intramural Research Program Board of Scientific Counselors and as a consultant and reviewer for NIMH and the National Institutes of Health on many topics. He chaired the NIMH Research Scientist Career Development Committee and the NIMH National Schizophrenia Plan Committee on Treatment Research. He also is the editor-in-chief of Schizophrenia Bulletin, has served on the editorial boards of numerous journals, and has authored more than 400 publications. Robert K. Ernst, PhD Dr. Paul and Mrs. Jean Corcoran Endowed Professor and Chair, Department of Microbial Pathogenesis School of Dentistry Ernst has been at the School of Dentistry since 2008 and also is an adjunct professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the School of Medicine. Ernsts lab has been at the forefront of innovative research studying the molecular basis by which bacteria modify the lipid component of their membrane, specifically lipopolysaccharide, and how these alterations affect normal host innate immune system responses, potentially resulting in septic shock. Ernst has received more than $20 million in research funding since 2008. This work has resulted in more than 190 peer-reviewed manuscripts with 17,000-plus citations. He was named UMBs 2017 Founders Week Researcher of the Year and 2019 Entrepreneur of the Year. Claire Fraser, PhD Dean E. Albert Reece Endowed Professor and Founding Director, Institute for Genome Sciences, School of Medicine A pioneer and global leader in genomic medicine, Fraser is one of the most highly cited investigators in microbiology. In 1995, she was the first to map the complete genetic code of a free-living organism Haemophilus influenza the bacterium that causes lower-respiratory tract infections and meningitis in infants and young children. This took place at the Institute for Genomic Research in Rockville, Md., where Fraser served as director from 1998 to 2007. Her discovery launched a new field of study: microbial genomics. In 2007, Fraser launched the Institute for Genome Sciences (IGS), bringing 60 researchers and staff with her. IGS now holds over 25 percent of the funding awarded by the Human Microbiome Project. She served as director of IGS until March 2023. Donald G. Gifford, JD Jacob A. France Professor of Torts, Francis King Carey School of Law Gifford joined the Francis King Carey School of Law in 1992, when he was named dean and professor. He served as dean through 1999, initiating the efforts to build the current law school building, obtaining legislative approval and funding for the building, and raising most of the private contributions for its construction. Giffords teaching and research interests include torts, product liability, advanced torts, and legal negotiation. He is the author or co-author of five books, including a torts casebook and a legal negotiation text, and numerous articles about topics such as mass torts, product liability, technological change and tort law, how race affects the substantive law of torts, and medical malpractice. Geoffrey Greif, PhD, MSW, LCSW-C Professor, School of Social Work Greif has been at the School of Social Work since 1984 and served as associate dean from 1996 to 2007. His current research, teaching, and practice interests include child abduction, family therapy, adult friendships, adult family relationships, and interracial families. He is the author of more than 150 journal articles and book chapters and 15 books, including four that he co-edited. More recently, Greif has explored horizontal relationships with the publication of Buddy System: Understanding Male Friendships; Two Plus Two: Couples and Their Couple Friendships; Adult Sibling Relationships; and In-Law Relationships: Mothers, Daughters, Fathers, and Sons. He also is a member of various community-based boards, including the Open Society Institute Leadership Council and the Shriver Hall Concert Series. Margaret M. Peg McCarthy, PhD James and Carolyn Frenkil Endowed Deans Professor and Chair, Department of Pharmacology, and Director, University of Maryland-Medicine Institute for Neuroscience Discovery, School of Medicine McCarthy is a leading neuroscientist who has been with School of Medicine since 1993, making significant discoveries related to gender differences and the brain. Her seminal research focuses on the influence of steroid hormones on the developing brain with a special emphasis on understanding the cellular mechanisms that establish sex differences i.e., the numerous, novel mechanisms by which steroids permanently organize the developing brain differently in men and women. McCarthy was named UMBs Researcher of the Year in 2015 and a UMB Champion of Excellence in 2017. She has been an associate editor of Hormones and Behavior since 2004 and served as associate editor of the Journal of Neuroscience (2007-2011) and editor of Endocrinology (2008-2013). Fadia T. Shaya, PhD, MPH Professor, Department of Practice, Sciences, and Health Outcomes Research, and Executive Director, Behavioral Health Resources and Technical Assistance Program, School of Pharmacy In addition to her School of Pharmacy roles, Shaya directs the informatics core at UMBs Institute for Clinical and Translational Research and is an affiliate professor at the School of Medicine. Shaya, who was UMBs 2017 Teacher of the Year, teaches clinical and graduate policy courses and mentors pharmacy, medical, graduate, and postdoctoral students and junior faculty. Her mentees and students have taken positions in government, academia, consulting, nonprofits, and the health care industry. Her work focuses on building strategic partnerships, taking into account the social determinants of health, to optimize the effectiveness and reduce the risk of prescription drugs and medical devices. Her implementation/dissemination research is based in human data science and uses artificial intelligence and machine learning methods. Marc Simard, MD, PhD Dr. Bizhan Aarabi Professor in Neurotrauma and Interim Chair, Department of Physiology, School of Medicine Simard is a nationally recognized basic science researcher who specializes in vascular neurosurgery, which includes the surgery and management of patients with stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and other vascular lesions of the brain. He also serves as chief of neurological surgery at the Baltimore Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center. For almost 40 years, Simard has researched the role of ion channels in diseases of the central nervous system, including stroke, brain bleeds, and traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries. He has written more than 260 peer-reviewed publications and has had continuous National Institutes of Health and VA funding for more than three decades. His translational work has led to the awarding of 14 U.S. and 22 international patents. | By Mary T. Phelan In the newly released U.S. News & World Reports 2024 Best Colleges Best Bachelor of Science (BSN) Programs, the University of Maryland School of Nursings (UMSON) BSN program ranked No.10 in the nation (tied with five other institutions), out of the more than 650 accredited nursing schools ranked. Among public schools of nursing, UMSON is ranked No. 3 in the nation (tied with two other public nursing schools). UMSONs BSN program continues to be the top-ranked such program in Maryland. It is gratifying to be recognized as one of the top baccalaureate programs in the nation, and it is a testament to our faculty and our students, said Yolanda Ogbolu, PhD '11, NNP, FNAP, FAAN, the Bill and Joanne Conway Dean of the University of Maryland School of Nursing. We are proud to play an important role within Maryland and throughout the country in increasing the number of nurses educated at the baccalaureate level, as we also work to address the critical shortage of nurses at all levels. Our graduates are well prepared to meet the needs of our health care system and to serve as a vital and trusted resource for individuals, their families, and our communities. UMSONs BSN program encompasses an entry-into-nursing program and an RN-to-BSN program for already licensed practicing nurses. The program prepares students to excel in nursing careers across a broad spectrum of acute, chronic, and community-based settings. National data indicates that employers increasingly prefer and, in some cases, require, a baccalaureate degree. This fall, UMSON admitted 220 entry BSN students, its largest class ever, between its Baltimore and Universities at Shady Grove (Rockville, Md.) locations, reflecting the schools commitment to responding to the demands of health care at a critical time of substantial nursing shortages. The school was among the first in the nation to launch an entirely revised BSN curriculum for incoming students last fall, in alignment with the American Association of Colleges of Nursings The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education, an updated framework for nursing education using a competency-based approach. The curriculum responds to the Essentials direction for curricula that respond to the changing face of health care, necessitating updates to how nurses are prepared; in that vein, the BSN curriculum includes courses focusing on evidence-based practice, public and community health, social determinants of health, disease prevention, and palliative care. Two recent clinical practice initiatives with the University of Maryland Medical System the Practicum to Practice Partnership and the Academy of Clinical Essentials provide students expanded and advanced clinical opportunities. In addition to serving practicing nurses seeking a BSN degree, UMSONs RN-to-BSN program boasts dual-admission partnerships with all 15 community colleges in Maryland that offer an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program, enabling a smooth transition for ADN students into UMSONs BSN program. To date, 270 students have transitioned from community college to UMSONs BSN program via the schools dual-admission partnerships. Rankings are determined by scores received from surveys of top academics and officials at nursing schools or departments at institutions nationwide that are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. In addition, the institutions must be regionally accredited and have recently awarded at least 40 BSN degrees. The University of Maryland School of Nursing, founded in 1889, is one of the oldest and largest nursing schools in the nation and is ranked among the top nursing schools nationwide. Enrolling more than 2,000 students in its baccalaureate, masters, and doctoral programs, the school develops leaders who shape the profession of nursing and impact the health care environment. 09/15/2023 By Marlon Pitter Sweltering temperatures around the globe made the summer of 2023 the hottest on record, and scientists predict that more intense and more frequent extreme weather events are coming. While attention is often focused on the impact on physical infrastructures in the aftermath of extreme weather such as hurricanes, flash floods and wildfires, a trio of UMass Lowell professors is now studying the social impact of such events in several Massachusetts communities. The study, led by Criminal Justice Prof. Arie Perliger, will focus on cities and towns of various socioeconomic statuses. Environmental Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Profs. Mathew Barlow and Juliette Rooney-Varga, director of the campus Climate Change Initiative, are collaborating on the research along with graduate and undergraduate students. After communities are affected by extreme weather, the researchers plan to gather data via interviews about their crime rates, civic engagement, financial practices, trust in local authorities and attitudes toward climate change and related environmental policies. Perliger, an expert in political violence, extremism and security policy, says that higher temperatures are an example of how weather can have adverse social effects on communities. For instance, a recent study published in Injury Epidemiology found a correlation between rising temperatures and increased gun violence. We know from studies that were conducted that there's a correlation between heat levels and different types of crimes, he says. There's a well-known study that was conducted in Chicago that shows that every increase of 10 Fahrenheit degrees increases (the likelihood of) a shooting in the city by 20%. For Rooney-Varga, the information that the trio gathers is paramount to helping local governments and nonprofit organizations prepare for these events. We need to be thinking not just about how to create resilient and better-adapted physical infrastructure, but also how we create better-adapted and more resilient social infrastructure, she says. How do we ensure that our governments know what kind of resources they're going to need to support and help people as these impacts intensify? The project is funded by a $14,160 seed grant from the Office of Research and Innovation. While the project could last up to two years, Perliger hopes to gather enough information to complete the pilot study within a year. From there, the plan is to secure more funding for a larger-scale study that reaches outside of Massachusetts. For now, Perliger says the information the researchers collect can help demystify the local impacts of climate change for the UMass Lowell community. Sometimes we talk about climate change in very abstract ways, but I think that through this kind of research, students can really understand how it really impacts their own neighborhoods, their own communities, their own towns and so on, he says. UN General Assembly President Dennis Francis (C) delivers his opening remarks during the Sustainable Development Goals Summit at the UN headquarters in New York, on Sept. 18, 2023. Francis on Monday called on world leaders to re-commit to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). (Xinhua/Li Rui) UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- UN General Assembly President Dennis Francis on Monday called on world leaders to re-commit to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A combination of factors, including the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and the Ukraine conflict, have presented a series of complex and intersecting crises, said Francis in his opening remarks at the SDG Summit, held on the sidelines of the General Debate of the General Assembly. While this has dramatically altered the trajectory of the entire world, it is - as is too often the case - those in the most precarious circumstances and those who are already the most vulnerable that suffer the most, he noted. Despite commitments to eradicate poverty and reduce hunger being at the core of this agenda, alarmingly, 1.2 billion people were still living in multidimensional poverty as of 2022. It is estimated that approximately 8 percent of the global population, or 680 million people, will still be facing hunger in 2030, said Francis. "Can we accept these numbers or, because they make us uncomfortable, should we pretend they do not exist and carry on with business as usual? Surely, we cannot," he said. "To do so would amount to being reckless. Rather, we must do more to lift people sustainably out of poverty and hunger not merely because it is the right thing to do in the name of humanity but also because to do nothing would be to fan the flames of discord and conflict, with well-known terrible consequences." He called on world leaders to re-commit to the SDGs. "While there have been setbacks, we cannot relent in our resolve and determination to do our utmost to rescue the SDGs. ... The fact that we are lagging in our promise cannot be the death knell of our blueprint, nor should this summit be a forum to point fingers, apportion blame, and certainly, not to accept defeat. Instead, bold and transformative actions must be prioritized to support the well-being of our global constituents, particularly those left farthest behind," he said. "This is our moment to re-dedicate ourselves to the SDGs, and to reinvigorate progress across the entirety of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development," he said. With concerted, ambitious action, it is still possible to lift 124 million additional people out of poverty and to ensure that some 113 million fewer people are malnourished by 2030. Such achievements would also generate gains across other goals related to health, nutrition and education, he said. Adequate investment in the SDGs is therefore a win-win for all, with cross-cutting and knock-on benefits reverberating across the globe, positively impacting every society and every community, he said, calling on world leaders to make this strategic investment in the SDGs through effective domestic resource mobilization accompanied by fulfillment of the targets set for the inflow of official development assistance and productive partnerships with the private sector. He stressed the need to reform the international financial architecture to promote affordable, stable long-term financing for sustainable development across the Global South, where development has been in perpetual deficit. "We must remember, the world is watching. Our 8 billion constituents are looking to us for a signal that we will keep our promises and that we are alive to the reality that we have only seven years left before 2030," he said. "They want and deserve full reassurance that we - all together, recognize the circumstantial setbacks that so many have experienced and continue to endure, and that we stand ready to support them in their time of acute need, and, most importantly, that we see the heightened sense of urgency and we are all prepared as the world leaders gather here today to raise our ambition and recommit to meaningfully delivering the 2023 Agenda and its 17 SDGs." Francis challenged world leaders to demonstrate emboldened leadership and announce groundbreaking commitments at the summit to support and complete the 2030 Agenda. "As we navigate the challenges ahead, the SDGs will remain a true blueprint for humanity and will continue to be our guideposts to deliver peace, prosperity, progress, and sustainability for all peoples, everywhere," he said. UN General Assembly President Dennis Francis (at the podium and on the screens) delivers his opening remarks during the Sustainable Development Goals Summit at the UN headquarters in New York, on Sept. 18, 2023. Francis on Monday called on world leaders to re-commit to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). (Xinhua/Li Rui) UN General Assembly President Dennis Francis delivers his opening remarks during the Sustainable Development Goals Summit at the UN headquarters in New York, on Sept. 18, 2023. Francis on Monday called on world leaders to re-commit to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). (Xinhua/Li Rui) UN General Assembly President Dennis Francis (at the podium) delivers his opening remarks during the Sustainable Development Goals Summit at the UN headquarters in New York, on Sept. 18, 2023. Francis on Monday called on world leaders to re-commit to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). (Xinhua/Li Rui) World leaders meet Monday at the United Nations in a bid to salvage ambitious promises to lift the planet's poorest, at a time when vulnerable nations are facing a volley of crises United Nations, United States, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 18th Sep, 2023 ):World leaders meet Monday at the United Nations in a bid to salvage ambitious promises to lift the planet's poorest, at a time when vulnerable nations are facing a volley of crises. But the development summit, on the eve of the annual UN General Assembly that opens Tuesday, threatens to be eclipsed by growing geopolitical tensions -- which will be symbolized by the presence at the meeting in New York of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. In 2015, UN member states adopted the Sustainable Development Goals, 17 targets to transform the world by 2030 including by completely ending extreme poverty and making sure not a single of the planet's eight billion people goes hungry. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the summit will seek a "global rescue plan" on the targets, as he acknowledged that only about 15 percent were on track to be met and that metrics on some were heading in reverse. The goals are "about the hopes, dreams, rights and expectations of people and the health of our natural environment," Guterres said. "They're about righting historic wrongs, healing global divisions and putting our world on a path to lasting peace," he said. - Ambitions sidetracked -- Efforts to devote money and attention to the goals have been repeatedly set back, including by the Covid-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine and other tumult, worsening climate catastrophes and sharp increases in the cost of living. The United Nations summit "is a vital space to make change," said Abby Maxman, the president of anti-poverty activist charity Oxfam America. "Leaders must be held accountable, heed the calls of those on the front lines and use this time to listen, make meaningful commitments and follow up with real action," she said. She said that one powerful step would be for wealthy nations to back reforms of international economic institutions to address the crushing debts impacting parts of the developing world. A Group of 20 summit in New Delhi this month took initial steps to address representation in the International Monetary Fund and World Bank. "But overall, will this SDG summit reignite a sense of 'hope, optimism and enthusiasm,' as it's been billed?" asked Noam Unger, a development expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. "Rising authoritarianism, democratic backsliding, but also geostrategic competition and economic distress, those are likely to overshadow other fundamental issues related to climate change and global development," he said. (@ChaudhryMAli88) ABU DHABI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 19th Sep, 2023) The UAE has welcomed the efforts of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Sultanate of Oman to achieve peace in Yemen. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) commended the current talks with a Houthi delegation in Riyadh to reach a permanent ceasefire and find a political solution to the Yemeni crisis, to enhance peace and stability in Yemen and the region. The Ministry emphasised the importance of supporting regional and international efforts in finding a sustainable political solution in Yemen that achieves the aspirations of the Yemeni people for security, development, and stability. The UAE reaffirmed its commitment to stand by the Yemeni people and support their legitimate aspirations for development and prosperity as part of its support of the interests of the region's peoples. Tbilisi, Sept 18 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 19th Sep, 2023 ) :Georgia on Monday accused a senior Ukrainian official of plotting to overthrow the Black Sea nation's government by organising mass unrest, in the blatest episode of escalating tensions between the ex-Soviet countries. Kyiv said the claim was "untrue" and called it a Georgian attempt to "demonise" the war-torn country. Tbilisi has been accused of cooperating with the Kremlin even though Russian forces have deployed to separatist regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia since 2008, when Moscow invaded the tiny Caucasus country. Georgian security services said the deputy chief of Ukraine's military counterintelligence and Georgia's former deputy interior minister, Giorgi Lortkipanidze, were plotting "destabilisation aimed at a violent overthrow of the government." It said Georgians fighting Russian forces in Ukraine, including a bodyguard of Georgia's jailed ex-president Mikhail Saakashvili, were among the conspirators being trained near Ukraine's border with Poland. Ukraine has repeatedly called for Georgia to release Saakashvili, who is now a Ukrainian national and a top advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Kyiv has said that the Georgian authorities are "killing" the ailing politician on Kremlin orders and has demanded his transfer to a clinic abroad. Georgia in turn has condemned what it said was "an extreme form of escalation in diplomatic relations". Georgia's security service said anti-government protests "are being planned for October and December, when the European Commission is set to publish its decision on Georgia's EU membership application." It said the plot "is being carried out with the coordination and funding from a foreign country." Ukraine denied the allegations. "This information is untrue," Kyiv's foreign ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko said on Facebook. "The current Georgian authorities are once again trying to demonise Ukraine in order to solve their internal political issues," it said, adding: "The Ukrainian state has not interfered, is not interfering and does not plan to interfere in Georgia's internal affairs." The EU recognised Georgia's "European perspective" last year, but deferred its membership application while granting candidacy to fellow ex-Soviet Ukraine and Moldova. That has led to mass anti-government protests in Tbilisi, where the government is facing accusations of backsliding on its commitments to democracy and undermining Georgia's EU membership bid. Earlier in September, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said "There is still quite a bit of work to be done" by Tbilisi to be granted formal candidate status. Vienna, Sept 18 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 19th Sep, 2023 ) :A decision by the European Commission to end an import ban on Ukrainian grain in five member states has led to tensions, unilateral embargoes and discontent among farmers. Ukraine's pledge to put in place measures to control the export of wheat, maize, rapeseed and sunflower seed to avoid upsetting markets has failed to pacify several of its EU neighbours. Here is the state of play: - Transit routes and bans - Russia's invasion of Ukraine closed Black Sea shipping lanes used before the war, resulting in the European Union becoming a major transit route and export destination for Ukrainian grain bound for Africa and the middle East. In May 2022, the EU dropped duties in the wake of the Russian invasion to help Kyiv maintain vital revenues. Faced with a slump in prices on local markets and angry European farmers, Brussels in spring agreed to allow five countries to restrict imports of grain from Ukraine through September. The measures allowed the products to keep transiting through Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Slovakia but stopped them from being sold on the local market. But the agreement expired on Friday and the European Commission refrained from renewing it, citing the disappearance of "market distortions" and improved transport conditions. Hungary immediately announced it was going to close its border to 24 Ukrainian products, up from four previously. Poland's populist right-wing government followed suit and extended an embargo on Ukrainian grain, as the issue is particularly sensitive ahead of next month's elections. Slovakia announced it would be banning the import of four commodities, including wheat, until the end of the year. Romania has said it is prepared to impose a ban for a month if it is unable to obtain necessary guarantees from Kyiv. In response, Kyiv on Monday said it had filed lawsuits at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) against its three EU neighbours over their bans. The EU Agricultural Commissioner Janusz Wojciechowski said he was "quite surprised that Ukraine chose this route" given that export volumes have risen sharply in recent months despite the restrictions. "I'm still hopeful that we will manage to resolve these issues through amicable dialogue," he said, adding that "any breakdown of unity within the EU" wouldn't benefit Ukraine. - Bulgaria: the exception - Contrary to its neighbours, Bulgaria decided to end the import ban, citing "solidarity with Ukraine" and the need to "guarantee food security on a global scale". The Balkan country stands out because it has many sunflower oil producers who have complained of a serious shortage of seeds and high prices since the embargo was put in place. While the sunflower producers hailed the move as a "triumph of reason", Bulgaria's cereal producers vented their anger by blocking bridges and crossroads with their tractors on Monday. Sunflower seeds and their oil are core exports for Ukraine, which in 2020/2021 produced 31 percent of all global sunflower oil, according to the United States Department of Agriculture. - Romania: the main export hub - After Moscow withdrew from a grain deal in July that allowed Kyiv to export around 33 million tonnes of grain across the Black Sea, "solidarity corridors" set up by the EU have played a major role. "All cereals now pass through the solidarity lanes, which are working better and better thanks to EU money," Olia Tayeb Cherif, head of research at the Farm Foundation, a think-tank dedicated to agricultural issues, told AFP. However, it is difficult to say exactly how much of it gets reshipped, the expert said. Poland mainly transports cereals by road to the Baltic Sea. But the largest quantities of Ukrainian grain exports pass through Romania. Its Black Sea port of Constanta -- the largest for cereals in Europe -- receives grain from trucks, trains and barges after a journey along the Danube bordering Ukraine to load them onto ships. In an effort to disrupt shipping lanes on the Danube river, Moscow has ramped up attacks on the Ukrainian river ports of Izmail and Reni. To avert bottlenecks and relieve traffic pressure, Kyiv and Bucharest signed an agreement in August. The Romanian government aims to have 60 percent of Ukraine's total cereal exports transit through its territory in the long term. Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu on Monday announced the amount of Ukrainian grain passing through the country has been increased to 2.5 million tonnes per month, as it aims to expand it to four million tonnes. - Smaller players - In neighbouring Bulgaria, the Black Sea ports of Varna and Burgas represent another possible route, despite the Balkan country's dilapidated infrastructure. Croatia has also offered to help as its Rijeka port in the north near Italy has been exporting about 100,000 tonnes of Ukrainian corn and wheat since May 2022. While Russia continues to dominate the grain export market, heavyweight Ukraine is resisting, with production estimated to reach 20.5 million tonnes in the 2023-24 season. The figure was 33 million tonnes in 2021-22 before the Russian invasion, according to Agritel data. Kyiv, Ukraine, Sept 18 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 19th Sep, 2023 ) :Kyiv on Monday said it had filed lawsuits at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) against its three EU neighbours -- Poland, Slovakia and Hungary -- over their bans on Ukrainian grain imports. The Central European countries went against a decision by the European Commission last week to end the import ban, with Kyiv warning of legal action. The import bans have led to an awkward diplomatic spat with Poland, Kyiv's staunchest ally against Russia. "It is crucially important for us to prove that individual member states cannot ban imports of Ukrainian goods," Ukraine's economy minister Yulia Svyrydenko said in a statement. "That is why we are filing lawsuits against them." "At the same time, we hope that these countries will lift their restrictions and we will not have to settle the matter in courts for a long time," Svyrydenko added. She said Ukrainian exporters "continue to suffer significant losses" over the bans. Russia's invasion has hugely disrupted Ukrainian grain exports in the Black Sea, resulting in the EU becoming a major transit route and export destination for Ukrainian grain. Poland, Slovakia and Hungary defied a European Commission decision to end restrictions on Ukrainian grain, extending their bans. The issue is particularly sensitive in Poland, where elections take place next month. The current populist right-wing government of the Law and Justice party has strong support in farming regions. BAGHDAD, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- A bombardment targeted an airport in Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan Region on Monday, killing six people and wounding one, local officials and medical sources told Xinhua. The attack took place in the afternoon at the Arbat Agricultural Airport on the southeastern outskirts of Sulaymaniyah city, some 325 kilometers northeast of Baghdad, a Kurdish security source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity. "It is not yet clear whether the bombing was caused by a drone, artillery, or missile shelling," the source said. "The security authorities are still trying to find whether the bombing was a terrorist attack, an attack that occurred by mistake, or was carried out by an external party," the source said. He added that the security forces cordoned off the airport and investigations were underway to determine the nature of the attack and who carried it out. A medical source at Shar Hospital in Sulaymaniyah told Xinhua that six people were killed in the bombing of Arbat airport and another person was severely wounded, stressing that the hospital was on high alert after the attack. The Kurdish security authorities have yet to make an official statement on the attack. (@Abdulla99267510) It is the first time in the country's history that the court proceedings are being broadcast live. ISLAMABAD: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-Sept 17th, 2023) A full court of the Supreme Court headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Qazi Faez Isa is hearing petitions challenging Supreme Court Practice and Procedure Act 2023. It is the first time in the country's history that the court proceedings are being broadcast live. The Supreme Court Practice and Procedure Act states that a three-member bench, comprising the Chief Justice and the two senior-most judges of the apex court, will decide whether or not to take up a suo motu notice. Previously, this was solely the prerogative of the Chief Justice. This full court was assembled under the direction of the newly-appointed Chief Justice of Pakistan, Qazi Faez Isa. The panel includes Justice Sardar Tariq Masood, Justice Ijazul Ahsan, Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Munib Akhtar, Justice Yahya Afridi, Justice Aminuddin Khan, Justice Sayyed Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi, Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhel, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Justice Ayesha A. Malik, Justice Athar Minallah, Justice Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi, Justice Shahid Waheed, and Justice Musarrat Hilali. Prior to this, a full court meeting was convened to explore the possibility of live broadcasting the proceedings and to establish guidelines for effective case hearings. It is worth noting that instructions for live broadcasts were issued shortly after Justice Isa assumed office as the CJP. Chief Justice Isa, who arrived at the Supreme Court without any formal protocol, emphasized the importance of treating visitors as guests and keeping the doors to justice open. On April 13, an eight-member bench of the Supreme Court temporarily halted the enforcement of the law, which deals with the authority of the Chief Justice in matters of public interest. During a previous hearing in June, the similarities between the Supreme Court (Review of Judgments and Orders) Act 2023, which pertains to the right of appeal in suo motu cases, and the SC Practice and Procedure Act were discussed. Attorney General for Pakistan (AGP) Mansoor Usman Awan suggested that Parliament could consider aligning the two laws, a proposal welcomed by the then-CJP, who also emphasized the importance of the Federal government involving the top court in judiciary-related legislation. The law empowered a three-member committee of senior judges, including the Chief Justice, to initiate suo motu actions. Its aim was to ensure transparency in court proceedings and included provisions for the right to appeal. Regarding the formation of benches, the Act specified that a committee comprising the CJP and the two senior-most judges would decide on every case, matter, or appeal presented to the apex court. Decisions of the committee would be determined by majority vote. Concerning the exercise of the apex court's original jurisdiction, the Act mandated that any matter invoking Article 184(3) would first be submitted to the committee. In cases requiring interpretation of the Constitution, the Act stipulated the formation of a bench with no fewer than five apex court judges. Appeals against verdicts of an apex court bench that exercised Article 184(3) jurisdiction had to be filed within 30 days of the bench's order. Such appeals would be scheduled for a hearing within 14 days. Additionally, the right of appeal would be retroactively extended to individuals who had been affected by an Article 184(3) order before the commencement of the SC (Practice and Procedure) Act 2023, provided that their appeals were filed within 30 days of the Act taking effect. The Act also granted parties the right to choose their legal counsel when filing a review application under Article 188 of the Constitution. Furthermore, it mandated that applications citing urgency or seeking interim relief be scheduled for a hearing within 14 days of filing. (@Abdulla99267510) The PPP senior leader and Senator Raza Rabbani has demanded Senate session to debate western interference. ISLAMABAD: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-Sept 18th, 2023) PPP leader and Senator Raza Rabbani voiced concerns on Monday regarding the caretaker government's perceived failure to safeguard national sovereignty. The former Senate chairman and the PPP prominent member accused western countries of persistent interference in the nation's internal affairs. He emphasized that this intervention extended beyond electoral matters, with diplomats in Islamabad engaging in discussions concerning the nation's economic and political landscape. Rabbani noted a recent trend of foreign diplomats visiting the offices of various political parties. We take pride in our status as citizens of a sovereign nation and do not subscribe to external influences, he asserted. Senator Rabbani called for the immediate convening of a senate session to deliberate on issues related to attacks on national sovereignty and other pressing problems facing the country. For the fifth consecutive year, the University of South Florida places among the top 50 public universities in America, according to U.S. News & World Reports annual ranking of the best colleges. In the rankings released today, USF also reached its highest overall position ever at No. 89 among all universities public or private. USF is No. 45 among public universities. Over the past 10 years, USF has risen an impressive 43 spots among public universities from No. 88 to No. 45, and 72 spots among all universities, from No. 161 to No. 89. "The University of South Florida is proud to celebrate our fifth consecutive year as a top 50 public university and our highest overall position in U.S. News & World Reports annual rankings, USF President Rhea Law said. Our ranking as a top-tier university and our recent invitation to join the Association of American Universities show that the value of a USF degree is on the rise. We are focused on sustaining this positive momentum as we continue our pursuit of excellence. U.S. News ranks USF as the best value among all public universities in Florida. The publication also ranks USF No. 1 in Florida and No. 16 nationally for social mobility. According to U.S. News, social mobility measures an institutions success at graduating Pell Grant recipients. The U.S. News methodology for its best college rankings combines a host of factors, including student graduation and retention rates, first generation student success, student-to-faculty ratio, faculty excellence and academic reputation. USFs success in the rankings comes on the heels of a recent invitation to join the prestigious Association of American Universities, a group of the leading 71 public and private research universities in North America. SEPTEMBER 18, 2023 More than $205 million. Thats the amount that State of Texas employees have contributed to charities across Texas through the State Employee Charitable Campaign (SECC) since 1993. Roadrunner faculty and staff are encouraged to continue their tradition of charitable giving through SECC and play a key role in supporting the San Antonio nonprofit community. What is the SECC? Every year, staff and faculty come together to give back through the SECC, which allows employees of state agencies like UTSA to donate to an array of local, statewide and national charities via a one-time gift or through payroll deduction. UTSA partners annually with the United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County on the SECC. By participating, Roadrunners are raising funds that will provide much-needed help to programs on campus, throughout Bexar County and beyond. UTSA is proud to partner with the United Way as we work together to solve critical issues facing our community, said UTSA Senior Vice President for Business Affairs and Chief Enterprise Development Officer Veronica Salazar. The SECC is a unique opportunity for UTSA employees to join with other organizations throughout the state to make a positive impact in our local communities. Through the SECC, we can demonstrate our generous Roadrunner spirit of giving, added Salazar, who serves on the United Way Advisory Council. How does the campaign work? UTSA vice presidents will be running participation activities within their divisions and enjoying some friendly competition to see which teams have the highest participation rates. Find your divisions campaign representative by visiting the SECC website. Giving is easy and convenient. Runners can select from a list of 500+ nonprofits to find organizations that play a key role in our community. Agencies such as The Childrens Hospital of San Antonio (Charity #415017), Animal Defense League of Texas (#75007), and the Roadrunner Pantry (#413006) are just a few of the many participating this year. Click the orange Make Your Gift button at the top of the campaign page, follow the steps and click submit. All charities in the campaign meet strict eligibility criteria to qualify, so donors can be confident their contribution is going directly towards the work of selected charities. Why should I give? Giving through the SECC allows donors to support a favorite cause or charity and provide meaningful assistance to the local community. Aside from participating in a worthy cause, all donations are tax-deductible. Remember that a gift of any size can make a world of difference to the charities in this campaign, so make a donation today. The professor explored a wealth of content from his honors students as he pieced the podcast together. Among the findings that caught his attention was student Christian Montanos research into corridos or Mexican ballads. During the podcast, Montano, a literature major, discusses the topic with musician and educator Juan Tejeda, who explains how music was a medium to record and distribute information. Santos also included details from student Joshua Wilson, a history major with a museum studies minor, who discusses State Representative J. T. Canales 1918 and 1919 investigations that revealed Texas Rangers as the culprits in massacres of Mexican Americans. In other parts of the podcast, Santos draws on his colleagues in Tejano studies, including the Refusing to Forget Project, a collective of scholars formed at the 2014 National Association of Chicano Chicana Studies Tejano Foco (Texan Focus) conference. Those conversations describe lynching tactics, land theft, state-sanctioned violence against Tejanos and oral histories which refute official accounts made by predominantly Anglo Texas Rangers and other law enforcement officers. History is a difficult topic, filled with conflict, not just wars, conflicts of perspectives and stories, said Veronica Rodriguez, who served as ITC interim head curator when the project was initiated. The podcast will inform some, inspire others and confirm what many have discussed at the dinner table, at historical meetings and on front porches. This was a worthy undertaking, and exactly continues the purpose the ITC was created for. Becoming Texas resulted in a thought-provoking podcast that gave students a chance to work on a project they could add to their resumes. This exemplifies the goal of the universitys Classroom to Career initiative, which charges instructors with providing real-world experience and an understanding of how a students work could impact the community. This image shows the front page of the Park County Herald from July 4, 1924, that UW Libraries staff digitized for the Wyoming Digital Newspaper Project. (Image from Chronicling America website) University of Wyoming Libraries has received a third round of funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) to support ongoing newspaper digitization work. The two-year, $263,100 grant will support the ongoing Wyoming Digital Newspaper Project, which began in August 2019 after the first NEH grant was awarded. The projects current phase involves UW Libraries employees digitizing 100,000 pages of select Wyoming newspapers -- dating from 1867-1963 -- as part of the states participation in the National Digital Newspaper Program (NDNP). After employees digitize the pages, they upload them to the Chronicling America website, a free, searchable database of historic American newspapers. The UW Libraries team has digitized and uploaded more than 200,000 pages to the website since the start of the project. Newspapers added during the first two rounds of grant funding include The Arapahoe Agency Courier, The Big Horn Sentinel, Bill Barlows Budget and Converse County Review, The Buffalo Bulletin, The Casper Daily Tribune, The Cheyenne Daily Leader, The Cody Enterprise, The Kemmerer Republican, The Laramie Republican, the Park County Herald, the Platte Valley Lyre, The Saratoga Sun and The South Pass News. This third round of funding will allow continued growth of the collection to reflect the diverse communities and histories of Wyoming, says Bryan Ricupero, the grants principal investigator and UW Libraries digital collections and metadata librarian. Were in the process of selecting new titles to add to the collection, and were planning to expand coverage to include different geographical locations weve not been able to cover yet. The Wyoming State Archives and UW Libraries are the two primary repositories for Wyoming print and microfilm newspaper collections. Master copies of all microfilmed titles are currently held at the Wyoming State Archives and are available for UW Libraries to duplicate and digitize. This microfilm was created during the National Newspaper Project to standards compatible with the NDNP. In addition to Ricupero, the Wyoming Digital Newspaper Project team is composed of Rachael Laing, a library specialist and grant project specialist. Members of UW Libraries Digital Collections office will present on Wyoming digital newspapers Thursday, Nov. 2, at 3 p.m. The workshop will focus on the content and functionalities of https://wyomingnewspapers.org, which contains approximately 5 million pages of digitized Wyoming newspapers from the late 19th century to 2021. The workshop will be offered in person in Room 302 of Coe Library and online. Those interested in attending should register by going to https://uwyo.libcal.com/event/11114229. About the National Endowment for the Humanities NEH is an independent federal agency created in 1965. It is one of the largest funders of humanities programs in the United States. NEH grants typically go to cultural institutions, such as museums, archives, libraries, colleges, universities, public television and radio stations, and to individual scholars. For more information about NEH, go to www.neh.gov. Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW), a global initiative championed by the UAE and its clean energy powerhouse Masdar, will host the next edition of ADSW at the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28). ADSW will play a critical role in maintaining worldwide climate momentum at COP28, by enabling impactful and inclusive dialogue between all global stakeholders, translating pledges into practical solutions for a net-zero future. Dr Sultan Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Chairman of Masdar and COP28 President-Designate, said: As the UAE looks ahead to hosting COP28, it is vital that we use every opportunity at our disposal to fast-track a just and orderly energy transition and to keep 1.5 degrees within reach. Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) was set up by Masdar in 2008 and has grown into a leading global initiative that extends well beyond one week. The special edition of ASDW at COP28 provides an important platform for a wider community of key stakeholders to have their voices heard and to accelerate a just and inclusive transition to a net-zero future. Important occasion Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Chief Executive Officer, Masdar, said: This special edition of ADSW provides an important occasion to highlight the UAEs Year of Sustainability at COP28 and reflects the legacy of climate action that Masdars global initiative, ADSW, continues to spearhead. We are proud to host this unique ADSW at COP28 and look forward to welcoming key stakeholders in sustainability and clean energy as we look to drive positive change to tackle the world's most urgent and pressing challenges together. The ADSW Summit, taking place on December 4 at the Connect Conference Centre, Expo City, Dubai will be held under the theme of United on Climate Action at COP28, and will bring together forward-thinking leaders from the public sector, civil society, and business to identify ways to accelerate the just transition to a net-zero future. Hosted on COP28s thematic finance day, the Summit will address issues such as investing for inclusion and climate finance, and identify pathways to accelerate sustainable development around the world. Throughout COP28, ADSW will provide a bridge for thought leadership by hosting events in both the blue and green zones, enabling timely and relevant climate action conversation and debate to accredited parties, observer delegates and the general public. ADSW Partnership Hub In the Green Zone, the ADSW Partnership Hub will run a series of structured collaborative activities that will encourage participants to exchange ideas and build successful business relationships. In the evenings, the hub will host networking receptions for attendees to wind down, connect and share climate action thoughts. ADSWs virtual content platform, ADSW Live will be streaming a series of interviews live and direct from the Green Zone, capturing daily reaction to climate discussions, and sharing timely, relevant sustainability-oriented content wrap-ups. ADSW at COP28 will also feature the WiSER initiative. WiSER is committed to positioning women and girls as drivers of change and innovation, in addition to ensuring their voices are heard across the sustainability debate. WiSER will work on a series of activations across COP28. Youth 4 Sustainability Youth 4 Sustainability, a Masdar initiative which invests in and actively supports the development of young people to become the sustainability leaders of tomorrow, will be hosting the Y4S Forum on 8 December. ADSW at COP28 confirmed sponsors include the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, Investcorp and HSBC. As in previous years, ADSW will also feature partner-led events and opportunities for international engagement on sustainability-related topics, including the International Renewable Energy Agency, the Atlantic Council, Tamkeen, and others during COP28. Masdar footprint As the UAEs clean energy champion, Masdars global footprint has expanded exponentially over the past 17 years, with new renewable energy projects currently under development in Europe, Africa, Central Asia, the Americas. This includes the Cirata floating solar plant in Indonesia, the largest in South-East Asia, and the Garadagh Solar PV Plant, Azerbaijans first foreign investment-based independent utility scale solar project. Masdar is active in over 40 countries and has invested in a portfolio of renewable energy projects with a combined capacity of around 20 gigawatts (GW). Masdar aims to grow this to at least 100 GW by 2030. The company is also targeting green hydrogen production of 1 million tonnes per annum by the same year.--OGN/TradeArabia News Service Li Xi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and secretary of the CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, meets with First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba and Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel in Havana, Cuba, Sept. 16, 2023. At the invitation of the Communist Party of Cuba, Li paid an official friendly visit to Cuba from Saturday to Monday. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao) HAVANA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- China is willing to work with Cuba to implement the important consensus reached by top leaders of the two parties and countries, and continue to support each other on issues concerning each other's core interests, said a senior official of the Communist Party of China (CPC) during his visit to Cuba. Li Xi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba and Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel. Li paid an official friendly visit to Cuba from Saturday to Monday. China stands ready to promote the development of the respective party building and socialist cause, said Li, also secretary of the CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection. China is also willing to work with Cuba to promote the implementation of the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, as well as the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, he added. Vietnam Briefing has developed into a premium source for insight on doing business in Vietnam. It publishes business news concerning foreign direct investment into Vietnam, including the most important tax, legal and accounting issues. The Vietnam Briefing Magazine was first published in 2009, and is contributed to by investment professionals based in Vietnam. JOHANNESBURG, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The South African government on Monday released its cost containment measures recommendations in an effort to balance the country's fiscal position. The National Treasury declared in the guidelines that the South African government is facing "fiscal challenges. "The current fiscal challenge originates mainly from an exceptionally large year-to-date decline in the government's tax revenue collection and tighter financial conditions that have constrained the government's borrowing program." On Aug. 31, the National Treasury wrote to government departments about the need to reduce spending as it sought to balance its budgetary condition, blaming the state's wage deal reached in March and declining revenue collection. It also urged the national and provincial governments to reduce expenditure on hiring, travel, and infrastructure projects, as well as refrain from spending money on event catering. According to the National Treasury guidelines, the wage deal the state agreed to in March was not budgeted for the current fiscal year. Therefore, it was required to implement the guidelines. "Accounting officers should take specific actions to make much-needed savings and avoid the materialization of potentially crippling resource constraints in later 2023," the guidelines suggested. Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, the minister in the Presidency, however, expressed hope Thursday that the rules would not have an impact on the provision of services. Authorized travel would be allowed for the delivery of important services. The moves by the government are considered wise because it is obvious that weaker economic growth will have an impact on tax collection, according to Jannie Rossouw, a professor at Wits Business School. "In any household, if the income is less than what they had budgeted for, it's simply good and responsible financial management to cut on non-essentials," Rossouw told Xinhua. He warned that because commodity prices are low, the mining industry, which had previously assisted tax collectors to raise more money, will bring in less money this fiscal year. The National Treasury said these guidelines would only apply to the current financial year and would be in place until the end of the current financial year. The military leaders of three West African countries Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger signed a mutual defense pact deal over the weekend. The junta leaders signed the Liptako-Gourma Charter, establishing the Alliance of Sahel States. The pact is named after the region where the three countrys borders meet. Col. Assimi Goita, Mali's junta leader, said in a statement, "I signed today with the heads of state of Burkina Faso and Niger the Liptako-Gourma Charter, establishing the Alliance of Sahel States with the objective of establishing an architecture of collective defense and assistance mutual for the benefit of our populations. The new pact calls for the three neighboring countries to come to the defense of each other. All three are facing threats from jihadists. Each of the countries has undergone coups since 2020. Armed men on Sunday took over two military camps in northern Mali, two elected officials told AFP, with a spokesman for an alliance of predominantly Tuareg armed groups claiming the attack. The Malian military confirmed on social networks that the town of Lere, in the Timbuktu Region of northern Mali, had been attacked on Sunday. A Malian military official told AFP it was "in the process of dealing with the situation." "Armed men attacked the two (military) camps in the town of Lere on Sunday," an elected official from the town told AFP. "After fighting, the armed men took the camps. We are waiting for reinforcement from the army, but for the moment it is the armed men who hold the camps," he added. An official from the administrative region also said armed men had attacked the two camps and continued to hold them. He said there had been deaths but could not provide a toll. Almou Ag Mohamed, a spokesman for the Coordination of Azawad Movements, an alliance of armed separatist groups dominated by Tuaregs, claimed the attack. "We attacked and took control of the two military camps in the town of Lere this Sunday," he told AFP. "The camps are under our control. We shot down an army plane." Rebellion revived Officials have said the assailants have not yet been formally identified. The successionist groups in 2012 launched a rebellion before signing a peace agreement with the state in 2015. But that accord is now generally considered moribund. This month has seen a resumption of hostilities by the groups. On Tuesday, the groups launched an offensive against army positions in the garrison town of Bourem, which the military said it had repelled. The two sides provided contradictory reports of events, but both reported dozens of deaths. The renewed military activity by the separatists has coincided with a series of attacks attributed mainly to the al-Qaida-linked jihadist alliance Support Group for Islam and Muslims (GSIM). In August, GSIM announced it was declaring "war in the Timbuktu region." In a separate incident on Sunday, two soldiers were killed and one injured in an ambush near the village of Akor in western Mali, the intelligence services said. That attack took place on a supply mission returning from the town of Guire, it said, adding that four attackers had also been killed. On Saturday, junta leader Assimi Goita signed a mutual defense pact with his Nigerien and Burkinabe counterparts establishing a military alliance and pledging to assist one another in the event of an attack on their sovereignty or territorial integrity. Botswana has put restrictions on the movement of cloven-hoofed animals in the northeast of the country after an incursion of buffalo from Zimbabwe put cattle at risk of contracting possible foot-and-mouth disease. Zimbabwe National Parks reports that more than 500 buffalo recently crossed into Botswana from the Hwange National Park in search of water and food. Botswana authorities fear the buffalo could spread foot-and-mouth disease to the country's cows, sheep and goats. Botswana's director of veterinary services, Kefentse Motshegwa, says movement restrictions have been imposed on cattle in the affected areas in an effort to stop the possible spread of the ailment. Veterinarians are testing cattle for foot-and-mouth disease, and farmers will be informed within 30 days of the outcome. Last year, following an outbreak of the disease, the government culled more than 10,000 cattle to stop its spread. Botswana's acting agriculture minister, Karabo Gare, says it is important to fight the spread of the disease, but there is also a need to safeguard humans from the buffalo, which are dangerous animals. Wildlife management expert Erik Verreynne says buffalo are able to enter Botswana because of another large beast, elephants. "We see more and more animals coming in as the government is battling to maintain the fences as elephants keep breaking them," Verreynne said. Local veterinarian and farmer Mbatshi Mazwinduma says there is a need to take quick steps to avoid the spread of foot-and-mouth disease. "The implications are that in these times of drought and in this time of lack of water resources, the buffaloes were hungry and thin; there is a risk that they may be shedding more virus and the government is doing all it can to round them up humanely, offer them water, and the ones that are depilated, to dispose of them humanely while also concurrently doing the necessary measures to make sure that the possibility of foot and mouth does not spread," Mazwinduma said. Buffalo are often linked with the sporadic outbreaks of foot and mouth in Botswana, affecting beef exports. Botswana, one of Africa's top beef producers, exports about 10,000 tons of beef annually to the European Union, where the country enjoys duty- and quota-free access. Bystanders are less likely to give life-saving CPR to women having a cardiac arrest in public than men, leading to more women dying from the common health emergency, researchers said Monday. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation combines mouth-to-mouth breathing and chest compressions to pump blood to the brain of people whose hearts have stopped beating, potentially staving off death until medical help arrives. In research to be presented at a medical conference in Spain this week, but which has not yet been peer-reviewed, a team of Canadian doctors sought to understand how bystanders administer the procedure differently to men and women. They looked at records of cardiac arrests that took place outside of hospitals in the United States and Canada between 2005 and 2015, which included nearly 40,000 patients. Overall, 54% of the patients received CPR from a bystander, the research said. For cardiac arrests in a public place, such as in the street, 61% of women were given CPR by a bystander compared to 68% of men. Alexis Cournoyer, an emergency physician at the Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal who conducted the research, told AFP that this gap "increases women's mortality following a cardiac arrest that's for sure. Cardiac arrests are a leading cause of death, with more than 350,000 occurring in the U.S. alone every year, according to the American Heart Association. Only around 10% of people who have a sudden cardiac arrest outside of a hospital survive, research has shown. The researchers sought to find a reason for the gender gap. One theory was that bystanders in public could be uncomfortable touching a women's breast without consent, Cournoyer said. The researchers looked into whether age could play a role, he added. China has flown 103 warplanes towards Taiwan between 6a.m. Sunday and 6a.m. Monday, a "recent high," according to Taiwan's defense ministry. The ministry urged China Monday to stop its "destructive, unilateral action." "The continuous military harassment by the Communist military can easily lead to a sharp increase in tensions and worsen regional security," the ministry said Taiwan said at least 40 of the planes crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, which has served as an unofficial barrier between the two sides. China claims democratically-ruled Taiwan as Chinese territory, a notion that Taiwan has roundly rejected. Chinas top diplomat, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, hailed his countrys strategic cooperation with Russia as he opened talks Monday in Moscow with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, and other officials. Wangs visit to the Russian capital came after two days of talks over the weekend in Malta with U.S. President Joe Bidens national security adviser, Jake Sullivan. Wangs talks with Russian officials are expected to last through Thursday. In his initial remarks, Wang noted Chinese and Russian commitment to a multipolar world and a more just world order, terms Beijing and Moscow use to counter the perceived domination of world affairs by the United States. "China and Russia, as leading global powers and permanent members of the U.N. Security Council, bear special responsibility for maintaining global strategic stability and global development," Wang said. "The more violent the unilateral actions of hegemony and bloc confrontation become, the more important for us to keep up with the times, show a sense of duty as great powers, and further fulfill our international obligations." He stressed that Russia-China cooperation "isn't directed against anyone and isn't influenced by any other countries." China has attempted to straddle a fine line in commenting on Russias war on Ukraine, saying that while Ukraines territory must be respected, the West needs to consider Russia's security concerns about NATO expansion. Beijing has accused the U.S. of prolonging the fighting by providing arms to Ukraine, weaponry that the U.S. says Kyiv needs to fight Moscows forces. Lavrov emphasized "the importance of Russian-Chinese cooperation for ensuring justice in world affairs, for ensuring a balance of interests in the processes that are developing in a variety of directions." He said Russia and China will coordinate their efforts during this week's U.N. General Assembly and other international forums. Wang discussed Ukraine in his weekend meetings with Sullivan, although specifics of their talks were not released. Both sides described the talks as candid, substantive and constructive as they try to stabilize their rocky relationship and manage differences over security, trade, technology and human rights. Some material in this report came from The Associated Press. Leaders and top officials from around the world were arriving at the United Nations Monday in advance of the annual General Assembly session, providing opportunities for high-level contacts between allies and rivals alike. On Monday evening, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng on the sidelines of the assembly in New York, the latest in a series of meetings between the countries aimed at reducing tensions. In a statement following the meeting, the U.S. State Department described the talks as "a candid and constructive discussion." Ahead of the talks, Blinken said in brief remarks that "the world expects us to responsibly manage our relationship." Han said that U.S.-China relations face difficulties and challenges and said both countries should make additional efforts to meet each other half way. The talks come shortly after U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan met with Chinas foreign minister, Wang Yi, in Malta. The high-level talks could help bring about a meeting between U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping later this year. Biden also arrived in New York Monday. He is set to hold a series of meetings during the week, including with U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, the incoming chair of the 20 largest economies, or G20. The U.S. president will not have the opportunity to meet with some of the biggest U.S. adversaries who are skipping the gathering. Russian President Vladimir Putin, facing an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court, will not be attending. Neither will Chinas Xi, or his top diplomat, Wang. Earlier Monday, officials from around the world focused on accelerating efforts to achieve worldwide development goals, with progress lagging far behind schedule. Guterres told the summit of leaders that only 15% of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are on track to be reached by 2030. "Instead of leaving no one behind, we risk leaving the SDGs behind. ... The SDGs need a global rescue plan," Guterres said. He said the summit is the moment for governments to come to the table with concrete plans and proposals to accelerate progress. The goals include ending poverty, ending hunger, ensuring access to affordable energy, taking urgent action to combat climate change and promoting gender equality. They were set in 2015 with the aim of being achieved by 2030. Halfway to that marker, progress is trailing, and in some instances is even going backward. A July report said climate crisis impacts, lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine and a weak global economy have hurt progress toward reaching the development goals. Leaders from the 193 U.N. member nations adopted a 10-page declaration by consensus on Monday, recognizing that the goals are in peril. The General Assembly session begins on Tuesday, when Biden and Guterres are scheduled to speak. Zelenskyy is also set to address the assembly Tuesday and plans to attend a meeting of the U.N. Security Council on Wednesday. Apart from a focus on the worldwide development goals, the U.N. gathering will also spotlight climate change with the U.N.'s Climate Action Summit on Wednesday. Guterres will host the event, which aims to reverse backsliding on Paris climate agreement goals. The U.N. has yet to announce which world leaders will speak at the climate summit. More than 100 countries' representatives have told Guterres they want to speak, according to Reuters. Some information for this story came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse. Were not [punishing] anyone at all. Who are we [punishing]? This [foreign agent] law has been in force since 1937, I think, or 1938 in the USA, ours is almost a copy, only its much more liberal. The Russian government has been using the foreign agent law as a tool for public censure and criminal prosecution of dissent, including as means of suppressing press freedom. The U.S.-based group Human Rights Watch described the Russian foreign agent law as toxic, noting that in Russia the term foreign agent is tantamount to spy or traitor. The foreign agent designation remains extra-judicial, with no possibility to contest it in court before the designation is made, HRW said, adding that it effectively excludes those designated as foreign agents from key aspects of civic life. In June 2022, the European Court of Human Rights in The Hague ruled that the Russian governments attaching the foreign agent label to organizations that received funds from foreign entities was unjustified and prejudicial and liable to have a strong deterrent and stigmatizing effect on their operations. That label colored them as being under foreign control, disregarding the fact that they saw themselves as members of national civil society working to uphold respect for human rights, the rule of law, and human development for the benefit of Russian society and its democratic system. The Court also stated that restrictions on the activities of foreign agent organizations extended far outside the realm of politics to undercut their mission as independent monitors of State actors" and deprived foreign agents of the opportunity to expose the potential for graft and corruption that might be present itself to State officials. The Russian authorities use of the foreign agent law for silencing dissent intensified significantly after the Kremlin launched the war in Ukraine in February 2022. Russians are prohibited from calling it a war and from any criticism of the Russian military and government regarding their actions in Ukraine. Putins close ally and the director of Russias foreign intelligence, Nikolay Patrushev, bragged on September 15 about having neutralized hundreds of foreign influence agents and spies, including through use of the foreign agent law. As of September 1, the Russian governments database of foreign agents listed 674 organizations and individuals, including news media, rights and environmental watchdogs, and elections monitors. Number nine in the database is the Moscow-headquartered organization Memorial the iconic rights and historic justice watchdog, which was nominated for the Nobel Prize for its work documenting Soviet-era repression and bringing justice to its victims. In December 2021, the Russian Supreme Court approved prosecutors request to liquidate Memorial for failing to comply with the foreign agent law. Also on the list is Dmitry Muratov, the Nobel Prize-winning editor of the investigative newspaper Novaya Gazeta, who in April 2022 was physically attacked and doused with red paint after being designated a foreign agent. The Russian court also liquidated his newspaper, which now exists only as the Novaya Gazeta Europe web publication. The list also includes prominent Russian opposition figures, among them Vladimir Kara-Murza and Alexey Navalny both of whom were branded foreign agents, poisoned and imprisoned. There are also schoolteachers, journalists, bloggers, green activists, rights defenders you name it on the list. For hundreds of these people, the foreign agent designation has had catastrophic personal consequences from public shaming to physical attacks to imprisonment or exile. As for Putins comparison with the U.S. Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) of 1938 that is the Kremlins evergreen response to international criticism of Russias foreign agent law and is, to say the least, misleading. The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. President Joe Biden heads to the UN General Assembly while Ukraines leader will attend for the first time. As its counter offensive continues, Ukraine retakes more territory. Adoption of Ukrainian children by foreigners has slowed to a halt since Russias invasion. ADDIS ABABA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has registered Ethiopia's Bale Mountains National Park as a world heritage site. The Bale Mountains National Park, located in southeastern Ethiopia some 400 km from the national capital of Addis Ababa, was registered as one of the world's natural heritages on Monday at the extended 45th session of the World Heritage Committee which is underway in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, state-run Ethiopian News Agency quoted the Ethiopian Ministry of Tourism as saying. The park, founded in 1962, is home to lakes, wetlands, and volcanic remains with spectacular landscapes, making it one of the ideal tourist destinations, according to the Ethiopian Ministry of Tourism. The park is also endowed with several species of plants, mammals, and birds, among which many are said to be endemic to the park. The Bale Mountains National Park is the second Ethiopian tourist attraction site to be granted a world heritage status at the ongoing extended 45th session of the World Heritage Committee. On Sunday, UNESCO registered Ethiopia's Gedeo Cultural Landscape as a world heritage. The site comprises a forest, which has been protected through generations. The heritage is also known for its multi-layer cultivation, which has been practiced for centuries by the Gedeo people who are also exemplary for their indigenous knowledge in conservation of the ecosystem and soil fertility, according to the Ethiopian Ministry of Tourism. It also has more than 6,000 megalithic stelae with attractive images for researchers, and foreign and local visitors. The Ethiopian government said the registration of the two sites as world heritages by UNESCO is expected to help strengthen Ethiopia's tourism development efforts. It further emphasized its crucial role in appropriately protecting the two heritage sites. Chinas increasing military manoeuvers near Taiwan and Japan are triggering changes in Japanese government attitudes. Japan made two important defense personnel appointments last week. Analysts think the moves reflect the growing level of importance that Tokyo attaches to the status across the Taiwan Strait. "China has engaged in a lot of provocative activities near Taiwan and the Japanese are deeply worried about these," Stephen Nagy, a regional security expert at the International Christian University in Japan, told VOA in a phone interview. "Japan is sending a signal to Beijing that they seek to prioritize peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait by appointing pro-Taiwan individuals to defense-related positions," he added. Several media outlets reported last week that Japan has appointed a serving defense ministry official as its de facto defense attache in Taiwan, reversing previous policy of appointing retired Japan Self-Defense-Force officers to the role at the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association, the organization that represents Japanese interests in Taipei. Experts say this development shows Tokyo's desire to improve the quality of conversations related to the security situation across the Taiwan Strait. They hope to achieve the goal by appointing the right person to be the de facto defense attache. "This [move] speaks to the ability to develop stronger ties at the human level," Alessio Patalano, professor of war and strategy in East Asia at King's College London, told VOA in a phone interview. "Stability across the Taiwan Strait has an inevitable repercussion for Japanese security and there is a growing perception in Tokyo that having someone in Taipei makes it easier to have a better quality conversation," he added. Enhance Japan's response to rising tensions across the Taiwan Strait In addition to the new appointment of the de facto defense attache in Taiwan, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also appointed Minoru Kihara, a politician with a track record of promoting stronger ties between Tokyo and Taipei, as Japan's new defense minister. Kihara's appointment is part of the cabinet reshuffle announced by the Japanese government on Sept 13. Kihara was secretary general of the Japan-Taiwan inter-parliamentary group and visited Taiwan as part of a Japanese parliamentary delegation last August. Patalano from Kings College says his appointment shows Tokyo wants to have someone capable of understanding what role Japan may or may not play amid rising tensions across the Taiwan Strait. "Kihara has served as a junior minister at the Ministry of Defense before, he has visited Taiwan and he has a personal interest in cross-Strait stability," he told VOA. "It shows that Japan is taking development across the Taiwan Strait seriously." In response to the defense personnel appointments announced by Japan, Beijing said it firmly opposed any country with official diplomatic ties with China conducting official exchanges with Taiwan. "China urges the Japanese side to learn from the lessons of history, abide by the one-China principle and the spirit of the four Sino-Japanese political documents, and be prudent in its words and actions on the Taiwan issue," Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of Chinas State Council, said during a daily press briefing on Sept 13. Japan bolsters its defense capabilities amid growing Chinese aggression Japans defense personnel appointments come amid growing Chinese military aggression near Taiwan and Japan in recent weeks. Since Sunday, Taiwans Ministry of National Defense detected 103 Chinese military aircraft and nine naval vessels near the island. "We urge the Beijing authorities to bear responsibility and immediately stop such kind of destructive military activities, Taiwans Defense Ministry said in a statement. Last week, China staged large-scale military exercises in the Western Pacific, deploying dozens of naval vessels, military aircraft, and its aircraft carrier Shandong. On Sept. 15, the Japanese coast guard said four Chinese government ships entered Japanese territorial water near the disputed islands that are called Senkaku in Japanese and Diaoyu in Mandarin. The incursion is the first since Aug. 23 and the 23rd Chinese incursion in 2023, according to Japanese broadcaster NHK. Analysts say the continuous Chinese military aggression in the region, including China's joint patrols with Russia around Japan and the high number of Chinese incursions around the disputed Senkaku Islands or Diaoyu Islands, has helped justify Tokyos efforts to bolster its defense capabilities over the last year. "The more China engages in saber-rattling, the more it makes it easier for Japanese leaders to get political cover for actions on the security front," Jeff Kingston, Director of Asian Studies at Temple University Japan, told VOA. Japan walking a tightrope in relations with Taiwan While Japan puts more attention on the Taiwan Straits through the new defense personnel appointments, Kingston says Tokyo is trying to find a balance between supporting Taiwan and maintaining economic ties with China. "Japan is walking a tightrope," he told VOA. "China is Japan's top economic partner and many people realize that Japans future prosperity hinges on tapping Chinas potential and working with the Chinese. On the other hand, the sympathy for Taiwan is huge in Japan and I dont think the public would be comfortable with any policy that diminishes support for Taiwan." In his view, Japan has gone from "a meek, unassertive support for Taiwan" to a much bolder and stronger position. However, rather than making bold moves, Kingston expects Tokyo to make incremental and gradual progress when it comes to its support for Taiwan. "Perhaps the progress is less than what Taiwan would want, but its within Japans comfort zone," he explained. Despite Japans attempt to play a balancing act, Nagy from International Christian University thinks there are opportunities for Taipei and Tokyo to cooperate in areas like rescue operations, humanitarian assistance, and informal exchanges between Japanese and Taiwanese think tanks. There is a possibility [for Japan] to cooperate with Taiwan within the multilateral framework, but Japan will have to be very careful about how this is done, he said. The United States and Iran on Monday carried out a high-stakes prisoner swap that included freeing five Americans the U.S. government says were unjustly detained by the Tehran government. Three of the Americans in the swap were identified as Siamak Namazi, Emad Shargi and Morad Tahbaz, who along with the other two Americans were under house arrest pending their release. The identity of the other two individuals remained private at their families request. U.S. President Joe Biden said in a statement the five individuals would soon be reunited with their loved onesafter enduring years of agony, uncertainty, and suffering. He thanked the governments of Qatar, Oman, South Korea and Switzerland for their tireless efforts to help us achieve this outcome. Senior Biden administration officials told reporters the logistics of the swap involved a Qatari plane traveling from Iran to Doha carrying the five freed Americans, accompanied on the flight by Namazi's mother and Tahbaz's wife, who had been prevented from leaving Iran. After the plane arrived in Doha, three of the released prisoners walked down the stairs and hugged the U.S. diplomats who greeted them, including U.S. ambassador to Qatar, Timmy Davis. The White House said Biden had an emotional call with the families of the seven returning Americans and that all who joined the call spoke with the president. From Doha, the group headed to Washington to be reunited with their families. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi said Monday's exchange could be a step in the direction of a humanitarian action between us and America. Speaking to journalists at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, he said, It can definitely help in building trust. U.S. officials said all would have access to recovery and reintegration services offered by the U.S. Defense Department. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the Biden administration, in its 2 years in office, has now secured the release of more than 30 wrongfully detained Americans around the world and is working to free others. The agreement included the United States allowing $6 billion in Iranian funds frozen under U.S. sanctions to be transferred from accounts in South Korea to accounts in Qatar. The funds are designated for use only for Iranian humanitarian purposes, such as food, medicine and agricultural products. The Biden administration officials told reporters the system is set up in a way that they are very confident the threat of the money being diverted for other purposes is very low, and if there is a diversion, the accounts will be locked up. South Koreas foreign ministry confirmed Tuesday that Iranian funds frozen in the country had been successfully transferred to a third country. Former U.S. President Donald Trump and some U.S. conservative lawmakers criticized Biden for agreeing to the deal, contending the release of the $6 billion amounted to a ransom for the hostages and that the money would allow Iran to help develop its nuclear weapons system and not be used for humanitarian purposes. Trump lashed out at Biden last week on Trumps Truth Social media site, saying the deal sets a "TERRIBLE precedent." Senator John Thune said on Facebook that the "the U.S. should be unrelenting in its efforts to bring detained Americans home, but Iran will now count pallets of ransom money, putting its leaders in a better position to develop a nuclear weapon and fund terrorists. And the price to release U.S. hostages will only go up." The White House, however, said the U.S. is not giving Iran any money. "This isnt a payment of any kind. These arent U.S. dollars. They arent taxpayer dollars, they are Iranian dollars the [Trump] administration allowed them to make" in oil sales to other countries, National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said in a statement. The five Iranians who were part of the exchange were charged or convicted of nonviolent crimes in the United States and received U.S. clemency. They were identified as Kaveh Lotfolah Afrasiabi, Mehrdad Ansari, Amin Hasanzadeh, Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani and Kambiz Attar Kashani. The Biden administration officials said the Iranians who lacked legal status in the United States would return to Iran through Doha. Ansari and Kafrani have no legal U.S. status. Afrasiabi and Hasanzadeh are permanent U.S. residents, while Kashani is an Iranian-American dual national. Ansari and Kashani were serving federal prison sentences, while Afrasiabi, Hasanzadeh and Kafrani were on supervised pre-trial release. The officials said in addition to the prisoner swap, the United States is issuing new sanctions under the Levinson Act as it calls on Iran to give a full account of what happened to Robert Levinson, a former FBI agent who went missing in Iran under mysterious circumstances in 2007 and is presumed dead. Biden said, The Levinson family deserves answers. Today, we are sanctioning former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and the Iranian Ministry of Intelligence under the Levinson Act for their involvement in wrongful detentions. And we will continue to impose costs on Iran for their provocative actions in the region. The U.S. leader also issued a new warning to Americans to not travel to Iran. He said Americans who go to Iran and are arbitrarily arrested and detained should have no expectation that their release can be secured. Some information for this story came from The Associated Press. Italys government passed toughened asylum laws Monday as the country faces a surge in migrant arrivals on its southern shores. The new measures will allow for the extended detention of migrants awaiting asylum decisions, from the current three months to an initial six months with the possibility of an extension up to 18 months. That will be all the time needed not only to make the necessary assessments, but also to proceed with the repatriation of those who do not qualify for international protection, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said at the start of the meeting, according to Reuters. The Cabinet also approved the creation of more detention centers in remote areas. In the past week, almost 10,000 migrants have landed on the small Italian island of Lampedusa, which has a population of 6,000 people. Most have crossed the Mediterranean Sea on small boats from Tunisia, a journey of just over 100 kilometers. Italian authorities say a further 180 migrants arrived on Monday. Conditions are dire, with migrants sleeping on the streets because the reception centers are full. Claudine Nsoe, a 29-year-old mother of two young children from Cameroon, arrived on Lampedusa on a small boat last week, after an arduous two-day journey. I hope that the situation improves and that they let us leave from here, because the living conditions are not easy. We sleep in the open air, in the sun and in the cold. There is no food ... and there are children, Nsoe told Reuters. EU plan European Union Commission President Ursula von der Leyen joined Meloni on a visit to Lampedusa on Sunday and promised a tough response. We have an obligation as part of the international community. We have fulfilled it in the past, and we will do so today and in the future. But we will decide who comes to the European Union and under what circumstances, and not the smugglers and traffickers, von der Leyen told reporters. The EU commission president outlined a 10-point plan to try to ease the pressure on Italy, including a bigger role for the bloc's border agency Frontex in identifying and repatriating migrants who dont qualify for asylum. The plan is unlikely to have a big effect, said Camino Mortera-Martinez of the Brussels-based policy group the Center for European Reform. When it comes to substantive points and content of things that the Commission can do or the European Union even can do about this problem, there is absolutely nothing new. We see von der Leyens 10-point plan that she offered Italy, and we see the same things that we've been seeing for the past 10 years, Mortera-Martinez told VOA. Naval mission Italys prime minister said the migrants must be stopped at the source with a European mission, including a naval one if necessary, in agreement with the North African authorities to stop the departure of the boats. Assess in Africa who is or is not entitled to asylum and accept in Europe only those who actually have the right according to international conventions, Meloni said in a televised statement on Sunday. The European Union signed a strategic partnership with Tunisia in July worth $1.1 billion in return for a crackdown on human traffickers and tightened border controls. Human rights concerns Human rights groups have expressed concerns over Tunisias treatment of refugees and say Europe must offer a more humane response. In 2023, alone, more than 2,000 people have died attempting the crossing between North Africa and Europe, according to the United Nations. Andrea Costa, manager of the Baobab Experience charity, which offers support to migrants in Italy, said the tightened laws will only force migrants to make riskier journeys. The key is to invest in reception rather than rejection. These people have set off on a very difficult and harsh journey with a high mortality rate. You don't stop them by putting up walls. You don't stop them by closing borders or with naval blockades. Welcoming them is the best answer you can give, Costa told Reuters. EU disunity EU member states are struggling to agree on a New Pact on Migration and Asylum, which the bloc says would create a "fairer, efficient and more sustainable migration and asylum process." Under current EU laws, migrants must apply for asylum in the country where they first arrive, adding to the pressure on front-line states. Several Eastern European countries, such as Hungary and Poland, are refusing to accept refugee quotas to share the burden of countries like Italy. We are a continent united in many things. Migration is not one of them. Or if it is, its basically on the consensus that we have to protect the borders, said Mortera-Martinez. But if we don't agree on something beyond that, then we will basically damage our own [European Union] project and that's going to be, in my view, particularly visible after the elections in 2024, she said. With those European elections scheduled for June, analysts say right-wing populist parties are looking to capitalize on voter discontent over Europes handling of migration. At the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva Monday, the legal team for jailed American journalist Evan Gershkovich called on member states to prioritize his case. Speaking to the U.N.s Working Group on Arbitrary Detentions, the lawyers and advocacy group Article 19 said that Gershkovichs wrongful detention violates his human rights under international law. The statement comes one day before a hearing scheduled in Moscow on Tuesday on Gershkovichs appeal against the extension of his pretrial detention. The Wall Street Journal reporters original pretrial detention was scheduled to expire on May 29 but has since been extended until November 30. Ahead of that hearing, the U.S. ambassador to Russia visited Gershkovich in jail last Friday, marking the latest in what have been infrequent consular visits since he was detained on espionage charges in March. The recent consular visit by Ambassador Lynne Tracy is only the fourth such visit granted since Gershkovichs arrest nearly six months ago. In a Friday post on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, the U.S. Embassy in Russia said, He remains strong and is keeping up with the news including his parents appearance at the UN this week. On September 13, Gershkovichs mother, father and sister joined U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield at a press conference, where she called on Moscow to immediately release the journalist. Thomas-Greenfield urged the international community and U.N. member states to stand with us, to stand on the side of justice, and to condemn Russia's flagrant violations of international law. During the press conference, Gershkovichs family members urged global leaders to prioritize Gershkovichs plight during the U.N. General Assembly, which is taking place this week in New York. The Russian Embassy in Washington did not respond to VOAs request for comment. During the comments at U.N. headquarters on Monday, Article 19 and lawyers representing the Journal urged states to bring Evan home and condemn Russia for attacking and jailing journalists for doing their jobs. The statement was delivered during the interactive dialogue with the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention at the 54th Session of the U.N. Human Rights Council. Evans wrongful detention violates his human rights under international law, is an affront to the free press, and is designed to stop journalists from exercising their right of free expression, the statement said. Each day that Russia continues to wrongfully detain Evan is another day that Russia keeps him from writing the insightful, enlightening and independent journalism that has been the hallmark of his career. A New Jersey mayor barred from a White House event earlier this year is among a dozen Muslim Americans suing the U.S. government over its continued use of a terror watchlist created after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Mohamed Khairullah, the five-term mayor of Prospect Park, New Jersey, was invited along with other Muslim elected officials to attend an Eid celebration at the White House in May but was told shortly before the event that he wouldn't be allowed to enter the compound. The Secret Service did not explain why it turned him away but a new lawsuit brought by Khairullah and 11 others claims he was barred because his name was on the terror watchlist between 2019 and 2022. "After approximately August 2022, after Defendants removed Mr. Khairullah from the watchlist, they continued and continue, to this day to retain records of his past watchlist status and use them to harm and stigmatize him," the lawsuit says. The lawsuit was filed by the Council on American-Islamic Relations, a Muslim advocacy group, against 29 federal agencies, including the Justice Department, the FBI, the Secret Service, Customs and Border Protection, and the Transportation Security Administration. The lawsuit alleges that the plaintiffs, including eight U.S. citizens, three permanent residents, and one asylum recipient, were placed on the list because of their religion. "All of them have been placed on the federal watchlist even though they have never been investigated or convicted of a terrorism-related crime and even though the federal government has no reason to suspect that they're terrorists except for their Muslim faith, their Muslim sounding names, their countries of origin from Muslim-majority countries and other markers of their identity as Muslims," CAIR lawyer Hannah Mullen said in an interview with VOA. U.S. officials view the watchlist as a vital security tool and deny using it to target Muslims. They note that only a fraction of the names on the list belongs to Muslim Americans. The FBI says the list includes "people reasonably suspected to be involved in terrorism or terrorism related activists" and that sharing the list with other agencies "keeps the American people safe." The Secret Service said it does not comment on pending or proposed litigation. But in a statement to VOA, a spokesperson for the agency said, "As we stated in the past, we were not able to grant entry to the Mayor at the White House and we regret any inconvenience that may have caused." The Justice Department and the FBI declined to comment citing the pending litigation. The Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The lawsuit wants the U.S. District Court in Boston, where the complaint was filed, to order the government to remove the plaintiffs' names and institute changes to ensure the list is in compliance with the Constitution and the law. The case comes on the anniversary of a 2003 presidential directive that established the Terrorist Screening Center, an FBI-run outfit that maintains the Terrorist Screening Dataset, colloquially known as the watchlist. The watchlist includes more than 1.5 million names of what the government calls "known or suspected terrorists. It has two subsets known as the "No-Fly List" and the "Selectee List" that federal agencies use to screen air travelers. The No-Fly List consists of the names of about 80,000 people who are barred from air travel within, to and from the United States. The smaller Selectee List includes people who are subjected to enhanced screening at airports before they are permitted to board an aircraft. The consequences of being placed on the watchlist are not limited to airport hassles. They include being denied jobs, security clearance, U.S. citizenship, visas, gun licenses, and other government benefits, the lawsuit says. What is more, even when the FBI drops someone from the list, as it allegedly did with Khairullah, the agency retains the person's information in its database, the lawsuit says. This information can then be used by various agencies to vet the person for access to federal buildings, jobs and programs, as well as for background and security checks, according to the lawsuit. Mullen said that it was extraordinary that a person who was no longer deemed a threat by the government can still face harm and stigma because of their past inclusion in the list. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived in the U.S. Monday for a meeting later in the week with President Joe Biden amid unprecedented demonstrations in Israel against a planned overhaul of Israels judicial system. Also on the agenda is a possible U.S.-brokered deal for normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Thousands of protesters flocked to the airport Sunday night as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu left for the U.S. for nearly a week-long visit. "I am here along with thousands of other people who are all very worried about the democracy of our country and the place, our government, the actions of our government which are risking everything that has been built here over the past 70 years," said Anat Refaeli, one of the protesters at the airport. The demonstrators, who have been protesting in Israel for 37 consecutive weeks, vowed to follow Netanyahu everywhere he went in the U.S., starting with a meeting with business magnate Elon Musk. Netanyahu further angered the protesters when he accused them of in his words joining forces with the Palestine Liberation Organization, PLO, and Iran in their activities, an accusation that the protesters are undermining Israels security and showing that Israel as weak and divided. In a later statement, the Prime Ministers office noted the anti-overhaul protesters would be demonstrating at the same time as pro-PLO activists who want President Biden to pressure Netanyahu to stop expanding settlements in the West Bank and take moves toward establishing a Palestinian state. As he left for the U.S., Netanyahu said he would meet many world leaders but first and foremost President Biden on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly in New York. The prime minister said it was heartwarming to see how many requests for meetings with world leaders he had received, and he said he would try to meet as many of them as he could. The most important one is with President Biden its a meeting Netanyahu has been waiting for since his current government took office in late December. Just a week later, his Justice Minister, Yariv Levin, introduced the plan for the judicial overhaul a series of changes that would take power away from the Supreme Court and give more power to the Israeli parliament. One of the laws, called the Reasonableness clause, which takes away one of the Supreme Courts tools to overrule government decisions, has already passed. Supporters say it redresses a situation that had given Israels Supreme Court too much power. Opponents say it threatens Israeli democracy. Aside from the judicial overhaul, Israeli analysts say the U.S. president will use his meeting with Netanyahu to gauge how far Israel is willing to go for a normalization deal with Saudi Arabia. According to Israeli media reports citing unidentified American and Israeli sources, under an agreement, Saudi Arabia would get a defense deal with the U.S., including permission for a civilian nuclear program. Israel would have normalized relations with the Arab country it sees as one of the most important in the Middle East and a gateway to peace agreements with other Arab states. The Palestinians would also get significant concessions from Israel. It is this last part that President Biden wants to discuss with Netanyahu amid statements by Netanyahus cabinet ministers that Israel is not prepared to make deep concessions to the Palestinians. Thousands of protesters marched through New York City Sunday demanding that President Joe Biden and other world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly end the use of fossil fuels. As climate change has become more urgent and polarizing, the scientists researching it and the journalists who report on it find themselves harassed. Meteorologist Chris Gloninger says he had been excited to tie climate change into his weather forecasts when the CBS affiliate KCCI hired him in 2021. I decided that I wanted the opportunity to talk about climate change in a part of the country where there was this massive void, said Gloninger, who moved to Des Moines, Iowa, for the job. It seemed to me like a no-brainer. But his reporters were met with harassment and eventually some death threats, he said. There were tons of harassing, nasty emails from other viewers that were cruel and filled with hate, he told VOA. KCCI was supportive, Gloninger said, even assigning a security detail to the meteorologist. And a man was later convicted of harassment and fined. But eventually, the harassment and anxiety became too much. Gloninger resigned and moved to Massachusetts this year. Gloningers experience is extreme and rare, but journalists who cover climate change are finding themselves on the front lines of what has become a culture war issue. Climate change for many families has joined sex, religion and politics at the Thanksgiving Day table as topics you dont bring up, said Anthony Leiserowitz, director of the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication. The experiences of these reporters, climate analysts say, mark the confluence of several different forces: the existential threat that climate change poses for Earth, a decline of trust in science and the media, a rise in disinformation and misinformation, and a surge in far-right authoritarianism. A 2021 study by the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication found that while 72% of adults in the United States believe global warming is happening, a little over 10% do not. And of that small group, most also believe conspiracy theories about climate change. Theyre only 10%, but theyre a really loud 10%, Leiserowitz told VOA. An even smaller percentage of that 10% are actually active in harassing journalists, he said, adding that he, too, has received death threats over his work. VOA spoke with seven journalists and academics focused on climate change, all of whom said they had experienced varying degrees of harassment including social media posts and aggressive emails to cyberstalking and hacking attempts. Some of that harassment came from climate change deniers or fossil fuel companies, and sometimes people on the left accused reporters of not moving fast enough or bemoaned any action as futile, the journalists said. If you do investigative journalism in the climate space, where youre looking at governments or corporations, youre going to be upsetting some very powerful interests, Neela Banerjee, a climate editor at NPR, said. Banerjee previously worked at InsideClimate News where she worked on the Pulitzer Prize-nominated investigation on how Exxon ignored its own research on the effect of fossil fuels and sought to misinform the public about the risks. When the outlet launched its series, Banerjee said, it was notified of attempts to hack the groups emails. They never confirmed the perpetrator, she added. Exxon is now accused in a lawsuit alongside other oil and gas companies of misleading the public. The company denies any wrongdoing. According to Meaghan Parker, executive director of the Society of Environmental Journalists, Climate journalists are just collateral damage of the very concerted, organized, well-funded effort to attack climate scientists. The challenges mirror broader trends. A 2022 study by professors at George Washington University found that science journalists in general are experiencing more online harassment. Its just basically delegitimizing anyone reporting on science, said Anneliese Palmer, a longtime climate journalist and research professor for science communication at George Washington University. It doesnt really matter what the topic is. Palmer added that women who report on science often face disproportionately more harassment over their work, which is consistent with trends across the media. A couple decades ago, there werent many journalists working on the climate change beat, reporters who spoke with VOA said. Back then, climate coverage had to also cite climate change deniers sort of in a false balance narrative, said Andrew Freedman, who covers the climate at Axios. But starting in the late 2000s, with nearly all scientists in agreement that climate change is real and humans are the cause, journalists were no longer citing pseudoscience from deniers for the sake of showing both sides. That is when you can start to see, I think, the tide turning to attacking journalists, Parker said. Freedman, for one, said that although he has never been targeted with an orchestrated harassment campaign, the threat of one definitely crosses my mind on almost a daily basis. Im not really thinking of climate contrarians whenever I sit down to write a story. That used to be the case, but its not the case anymore, he added. Journalists are broadly grappling with the challenge of distrust in media being at an all-time high in the United States. But climate change journalists are dealing with the additional challenge that comes with covering a topic as polarizing as global warming. Other concerns include how disinformation affects audiences, and how to connect with those who dont trust science in general. Theres so much climate disinformation out there, that Freedman, from Axios, said it isnt worth trying to debunk every piece of it. We face a deluge of sorting through misinformation and disinformation, he said. Due to declining trust in media and the polarization of climate change, folks who dont accept the realities of human-driven climate change both the fact that its human-driven, and its profoundly urgent by and large, theyre not our audience, NPRs Banerjee said. Piercing that information bubble that they might live in with misinformation, conspiracy theories that has to be done by a trusted messenger, Banerjee said. Campaigners are urging Australia to allow thousands of migrants whose asylum claims were rejected under a controversial policy to stay. A week-long protest starts Monday outside the offices of Australian Home Affairs Minister Clare ONeil over the cases of up to 12,000 asylum seekers who have spent more than a decade on temporary bridging visas but face the threat of deportation. In February, the government in Canberra said 19,000 migrants on temporary protection visas or safe haven visas would be allowed to stay in Australia. However, as many as 12,000 other asylum-seekers, on bridging visas, who are mainly from Iran, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan, were excluded from the announcement. A bridging visa is a temporary permit that allows non-citizens to stay in Australia lawfully while their immigration status is resolved. They have to re-apply to remain in the country every six months. Many had their refugee claims dismissed under a previous fast-track policy that advocates say was unfair and arbitrary. It was introduced by the former conservative government in Canberra to deal with a large backlog of asylum claims. Campaigners are calling for humanitarian intervention from the Canberra government. Mahboobeh Mirshahi is a migrant from Iran, who arrived in Australia by boat in 2013. She is joining protesters Monday outside the Melbourne regional office of Australian Home Affairs Minister Clare ONeil. Mirshahi told VOA that she fled to Australia seeking safety. My family and I on that day with the two children - Tania was six years old and my little one six months," said Mirshahi. "We came from Iran by boat because about (sic) the government, about the regime. Actually, in my case as a minority religion. We had to come to Australia and, yeah, now more than ten years we stay here without any visa Her teenage daughter, Tania, is completing high school but her family says because they do not have permanent visas, she wont be able to go to university. Tania told VOA that she wants her adopted country to show compassion. Australians seem to have a very negative bias towards those who came here by boat but we just need a little bit of empathy because no-one puts their children on a boat unless the water is safer than the land, you know ," said Tania. "Like, we escaped potential torture and death, and, like, so many horrible stuff (sic) just to come here and not have rights. Australian Immigration Minister Andrew Giles has said that genuine refugees who are ultimately found to have been owed protection will be allowed to stay in the country. The Canberra government supports a decade-old immigration policy called Operation Sovereign Borders. It is designed to deter asylum seekers coming to Australia by boat. Under Operation Sovereign Borders, the navy has been towing or turning away migrant boats trying to reach Australian waters. That policy has been condemned by rights groups. South Korea's president said the international community "will unite more tightly" to cope with deepening military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, as he plans to raise the issue with world leaders at the U.N. General Assembly this week. Worries about Russian-North Korean ties have flared since North Korean leader Kim Jong Un traveled to Russia last week for a summit with President Vladimir Putin and to tour a slew of high-profile military and technology sites. Foreign experts speculate Kim could refill Russia's ammunition inventory drained in its 18-month war with Ukraine in return for economic aid and technologies to modernize his weapons systems targeting South Korea and the U.S. "Military cooperation between North Korea and Russia is illegal and unjust as it contravenes U.N. Security Council resolutions and various other international sanctions," South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said in written responses to questions from The Associated Press before his departure to New York to attend the U.N. General Assembly. "The international community will unite more tightly in response to such a move," he said. In his address Wednesday at the annual U.N. gathering, Yoon will speak about his assessment of the Russian-North Korean moves, according to his office in South Korea, which added it is discussing countermeasures with the U.S., Japan and other partners. While Russian-North Korean cooperation is feared to fuel Russia's war efforts in Ukraine, it has also stoked security jitters in South Korea, where many think a Russian transfer of sophisticated weapons technologies would help North Korea acquire a functioning spy satellite, a nuclear-powered submarine and more powerful missiles. Some experts still say North Korea would end up receiving food and cash in return for supplying ammunition and shells because Russia closely guards its high-tech weapons technologies. North Korea's advancing nuclear arsenal has been a major source of tensions in the region, with the North openly threatening to use nuclear weapons in potential conflicts with its rivals and conducting a barrage of missile tests since last year. In response, Yoon and U.S. President Joe Biden in April agreed to expand joint military exercises, increase the temporary deployments of U.S. strategic assets and launch a bilateral nuclear consultative group. "Our two countries (South Korea and the U.S.) reaffirmed that any nuclear attack by North Korea will be met with a swift, overwhelming and decisive response that will bring about the end of the regime," Yoon said. "Going forward, (South Korea)-U.S. extended deterrence will develop into a joint system in which both countries discuss, decide and act together," he said. "We will also enhance the ability to deter and respond to any nuclear or missile threat from North Korea." Since entering Russia last Tuesday in his first foreign travel in 4 1/2 years, Kim has inspected some of Russia's most advanced weapons systems including nuclear-capable bombers, fighter jets, hypersonic missiles and a warship. During a summit with Putin at Russia's most important space launch center on Wednesday, Kim vowed "full and unconditional support" for Putin. Some South Koreans call on their government to consider providing lethal weapons to Ukraine in retaliation against Russia's possible weapons technology transfers. But South Korea's Defense Ministry said its policy of not supplying weapons to countries at war remained unchanged. Yoon recently announced South Korea will provide an additional $300 million to Ukraine next year, on top of the $150 million promised this year. He said South Korea will prepare for a mid- to long-term support package worth more than $2 billion. South Korea has provided Ukraine with demining equipment, emergency evacuation vehicles, pickup trucks, medical supplies, tablet PCs and other items. Yoon said in the coming year South Korea will continue to communicate closely with Ukraine to send it what is truly needed. Since taking office last year, Yoon, a conservative, has made a bolstered military alliance with the U.S. the heart of his foreign policy while pushing to move beyond history disputes with Japan Korea's former colonial ruler and expand a trilateral Seoul-Washington-Tokyo security cooperation. That has triggered concerns that South Korea's relations with China, its biggest trading partner, will be hurt. Yoon dismissed such a notion, saying "the trilateral cooperation harbors no intention of marginalizing any particular nation or establishing an exclusive coalition." Citing his meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping last November and Premier Li Qiang this month, both on the margins of regional gatherings, Yoon said he learned that "China also attaches importance to (South Korea)-China relations." During their November meeting, Yoon said Xi expressed his willingness to visit South Korea when the COVID-19 pandemic situation stabilized. Yoon said Li and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida had also expressed their support for resuming a trilateral Seoul-Beijing-Tokyo summit in South Korea for the first time in four years. "All three countries the Republic of Korea, the United States and Japan share a common understanding that it is important for China to play a responsible and constructive role not only in resolving pending issues on the Korean Peninsula and in the region but also in addressing global challenges," Yoon said. In his U.N. speech, Yoon said that he'll also raise the issue of gaps in three areas development, climate responses and digital transformation and present how South Korea will contribute to resolving them. Yoon said that as a non-permanent member of the Security Council for the 2024-25 term, he'll also mention that South Korea will play a responsible role on security issues that require international solidarity like the war in Ukraine and the North Korean nuclear program. While in New York, Yoon said he will hold bilateral summits with the leaders of about 30 countries. Yoon said he'll try to use those summits to discuss bilateral cooperation and explain South Kore's hopes to host the 2030 World Expo in Busan, South Korea's second-biggest city. Ukraine said Monday that Russia used 24 drones to attack the Mykolaiv and Odesa regions overnight, in addition to firing 17 cruise missiles at Ukraine. The Ukrainian military said it downed 18 of the Russian drones and all of the missiles. Oleh Kiper, the regional governor of Odesa, said the Izmail district, which is home to ports used to export grain, came under attack again, and that a recreational facility in the city of Vylkove was hit. There were no reports of casualties. In Mykolaiv, the regional governor Vitaliy Kim said falling debris caused a fire at a building, while a blast wave damaged other buildings nearby. A Russian attack in the Kherson region injured at least four people, according to regional governor Oleksandr Prokudin. Prokudin said Russian forces deliberately attacked a crowded bus station in the town of Beryl. Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar said Monday that Ukrainian forces had retaken two square kilometers of territory from Russian forces in the Bakhmut area, as well as more than five square kilometers in southern Ukraine. Some information for this story came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters CANBERRA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Australian government has issued the online dating industry with an ultimatum to improve safety for users or face greater regulation. Michelle Rowland, the federal Minister for Communications, and Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth on Monday issued a demand that dating services implement a new voluntary code of practice by the middle of 2024. If a new code is not agreed to by the industry, Rowland said in a joint statement with Rishworth on Monday that the government would pursue legislative options to improve safety for users of dating services. "Dating apps are now the most common way to meet a partner in Australia, yet the level of violence experienced by users of these platforms is deeply concerning. Online dating platforms must do their part to end violence against Australians," she said. "That is why I have decided to provide members of the online dating industry with an opportunity to work together to address the government's concerns." Research published by the Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC) in October 2022 found that 75 percent of Australian users had been subjected to some form of sexual violence facilitated via online dating services in the previous five years. The government in January brought representatives from the dating industry together with experts, advocacy groups, and law enforcement agencies for the National Roundtable on Online Dating Safety. Rowland and Rishworth said in Monday's joint statement that many services have taken steps to protect users since January's meeting, but that their efforts vary in effectiveness. "There is no arbitrary line between online and offline in our lives anymore. Abuse can cross between them like osmosis," Rishworth said. "We need to ensure that our community, including dating app users, know what it means to be respectful online, what kinds of behaviors are unacceptable, and the consequences for unacceptable behaviors." The United Nations secretary-general Monday renewed his demand for Afghanistan's Taliban to allow teenage girls to attend high school. "This is an unjustifiable violation of human rights that inflicts long-lasting damage on the entire country," Antonio Guterres said on X (formerly Twitter). "Girls belong in school. Let them back in," he added. His statement marks two years since the de facto rulers imposed an education ban. The Taliban seized power from an internationally backed government in August 2021 and have since imposed sweeping restrictions on Afghan women's access to education and work. They have banned girls from school beyond sixth grade, making Afghanistan the only country in the world with restrictions on education for females. Guterres told reporters last week that the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan "is absolutely central to all concerns" and would be on the agenda of the U.N. General Assembly session starting Monday in New York. Education Cannot Wait, the U.N. global fund for education in emergencies and protracted crises, denounced the ban as a violation of universal human rights. "In all, 80% of school-aged Afghan girls are currently out of school that's 2.5 million girls denied their right to the safety, protection, opportunity of education their inherent human right," the agency said. The Taliban have imposed their harsh interpretation of Islamic law, or sharia, in the impoverished war-ravaged South Asian nation, ordering most female government employees to stay home and banning Afghan female aid workers from working for aid groups in a country where 97% of the population needs humanitarian assistance. Women are prohibited from visiting public parks, gyms, or bathhouses, and a close male relative must accompany them for long road trips. The Taliban have defied international calls for a reversal of their bans on women, saying their policies are aligned with Afghan culture and Islamic law. The treatment of Afghan women has primarily blocked the de facto authorities efforts to win legitimacy for their government in Kabul. Muslim scholars from other Islamic countries have disputed and criticized Taliban restrictions, saying Islam does not prohibit women from receiving an education or having a public life. This month, a delegation from the 57-nation Organization of Islamic Cooperation, or OIC, visited Kabul to discuss bans on women. They "held several meetings with Afghan scholars and (Taliban) officials on issues of utmost importance to the organization such as tolerance in Islam, girls' education and women's work," according to a post-visit OIC statement. Tom West, the U.S. special representative for Afghanistan, welcomed the OIC's engagements in a statement last week, stressing the need to sustain the campaign. Speaking at a seminar in Washington, he said, however, that Afghans would have to work collectively to push the Taliban to reverse their repressive policies, especially those targeting female members of the society. "If a change has to occur on allowing women to return to secondary schools, girls' secondary schools, and then to university, it's going to come from inside the country," the U.S. envoy stressed. "If there is a shift on this set of issues, it will not be as a result of foreign pressure; it would be because Afghans have called for this shift, and the Taliban would do it because it is in the best interest of the country domestically," West added. U.N.-backed human rights experts say war crimes continue in Ethiopia despite a peace accord signed nearly a year ago to end a conflict that engulfed the country's northern Tigray region. The violence has left at least 10,000 people affected by rape and other sexual violence mostly women and girls, they found. They warned of "hallmark risks" that the violence could spread further, producing more "atrocity crimes" and jeopardize security more broadly in East Africa. With a multi-ethnic population of about 120 million, Ethiopia is by far the most populous country in the region. The experts' report, published Monday, comes against the backdrop of an uncertain future for the team of investigators who wrote it: The U.N. Human Rights Council is set to decide early next month whether to extend the team's mandate in the face of efforts by the Ethiopian government of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to end it. The violence erupted in November 2020, centering largely though not exclusively on the northern Tigray region, which for months was shut off from the outside world. The report cites atrocities by all sides in the war, including mass killings, rape, starvation, and destruction of schools and medical facilities. Mohamed Chande Othman, chairman of the international commission of human rights experts on Ethiopia, said the situation remains "extremely grave" despite a peace accord signed in November. "While the signing of the agreement may have mostly silenced the guns, it has not resolved the conflict in the north of the country, in particular in Tigray, nor has it brought about any comprehensive peace," he said. "Violent confrontations are now at a near-national scale, with alarming reports of violations against civilians in the Amhara region and on-going atrocities in Tigray," Othman added. Speaking to reporters in Geneva, he said patterns of grave rights violations and growing "securitization" in Ethiopia "bear hallmark risks of further atrocity crimes." The report said troops from neighboring Eritrea which the commission said were the worst offenders and militia members from Ethiopia's Amhara militia continue to commit grave violations in Tigray, including the "systematic rape and sexual violence of women and girls." Commissioner Radhika Coomaraswamy said the presence of Eritrean troops in Ethiopia showed not only "an entrenched policy of impunity, but also continued support for and tolerance of such violations by the federal government." "Entire families have been killed, relatives forced to watch horrific crimes against their loved ones, while whole communities have been displaced or expelled from their homes," she said. The team faulted a "lack of cooperation" from the Ethiopian government and said the Eritrean government did not respond to questions about its alleged role in the crimes in Ethiopia. The government in Addis Ababa has sought to set up its own transitional justice system, which the commission said was an attempt to evade international scrutiny. Citing consolidated estimates from seven health centers in Tigray alone, the commission said more than 10,000 survivors of sexual violence sought care between the start of the conflict and July this year. But accountability and trust in the justice system in Ethiopia have been lacking. The commission said it knows of only 13 completed and 16 pending military court cases addressing sexual violence committed during the conflict. The figures in the report offer a sweeping look at a conflict that was known to be rife with cases of sexual violence, even after the signing of the peace deal. Ethiopia announced a state of emergency in the Amhara region last month, and the experts cited reports of "mass arbitrary detention of Amhara civilians," including at least one drone strike carried by government forces. Amhara, Ethiopia's second most populous region, has been gripped by instability since April, when federal authorities moved to disarm its security forces following the end of the war in neighboring Tigray. The United Nations cultural organization on Sunday added many of Iran's caravanserais, roadside rest stops for travelers along the country's ancient trade routes, to its World Heritage List. The decision to register the 56 caravanserais, just a small percentage of the structures built in Iran, was made in Riyadh during the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee. Caravanserais provided "shelter, food and water for caravans, pilgrims and other travelers," UNESCO said its website. Iran boasts more than 200 caravanserais on historic trade routes that traverse the country linking Asia and Europe, including the Silk Road. "They are considered to be the most influential and valuable examples of the caravanserais of Iran, revealing a wide range of architectural styles, adaptation to climatic conditions, and construction materials, spread across thousands of kilometers and built over many centuries," said UNESCO. Among them are the caravanserais of Qasr-e Bahram near the city of Semnan, Deyr-e Gachin near Qom, and Anjireh Sangi near Yazd. Iran now has 27 UNESCO-listed historical sites, including the ancient city of Persepolis, the capital of the Achaemenid Empire, Armenian monasteries in the northwest and the historic city of Yazd itself. Last weekend, Sami Albah, 59, and his sister were preparing for their brothers wedding in their home city of Derna, Libya. She had flown in from the United States for the nuptials and Albah, an architectural engineer, was hosting her in his hillside apartment. On the night of the floods, it was raining hard and they heard there was a major storm coming in. But this kind of weather was not unusual for the Mediterranean city, known for picturesque hills, valleys and sea views. They went to sleep. We were so glad that he was going to get married, said Albah, standing on the roof of his apartment building on Sunday. On the streets below, volunteers combed the rubble for bodies as he spoke, and newly homeless families searched for food and water. As the siblings slept, their other sister, her husband, four children and their grandparents were resting at home in the nearby valley. When the storm waters engulfed their three-story building, they evacuated to the roof, thinking it would be safe. But on the rooftop, they saw waves leap 10 meters over their heads before the entire family was swept away by the raging waters. Sometime later, the husband, Albahs brother-in-law, woke up some 700 meters from his home. His wife, children and parents were gone. Since then, Albah and his brother-in-law have been searching, at first for their loved ones and now for their loved ones bodies. We only found two girls from the four children of my sister, Albah said. Two girls we buried. Aftermath Officials estimate the death toll could be more than 11,000 when they find all the bodies, in a city that was roughly 120,000 people. Local leaders guess the final toll could reach 20,000. On the rooftop, Albah continued speaking, saying his familys story was not even unusual. Survivors from Dernas valleys, Albah said, all have stories of unbearable loss and horror that rival Hollywood movies. Many survived deadly hours, watching people taken by the flood without the possibility of helping them or trying to help them, Albah explained. Just they could help their own beloved ones. They had their kids in between their arms while watching cars and buildings [taken by waves with people in them]. Every day, volunteers locate the bodies of more missing people, he added, and the horrors multiply. Tomorrow I will hear about new beloved ones who died so that I will forget about the ones I heard today, Albah said. We cannot manage all this loss. Future aftermath The losses, he added, are expected to continue. Volunteers in Derna are trying to stave off diseases that can follow massive floods, but some authorities say as many as 150 people have already been poisoned by polluted water. Tens of thousands have fled, and analysts worry that landmines left over from Libyas multiple wars over the past 12 years have shifted from the flooding, posing further dangers to those in transit. For those still at home, Albah said, the citys future looks impossibly bleak. Primary electricity, water and sewage lines are damaged or destroyed and entire neighborhoods have been swept out to sea or demolished. Even crossing the city is difficult, with roads and bridges destroyed. When his two nieces were buried, Albah and his sister missed the funeral because it now takes more than two hours to drive to the other side of town. Humanitarian aid is coming in now, said Albah, but it is expected to dwindle as winter approaches. People are camping on the streets and crowding into other families homes, short of electricity, fuel, clean water and food. We have lost our beloved ones, he said. All of our friends, all our streets, all our stores, all our memories. Imagining any future at all, he continued, feels strange as they reel from the weight of the destruction. I dont know where to start and where to end, he said. We are trying to find hope that maybe our sister will be found and that we could see her before we bury her. As Washington and Tehran implemented a prisoner exchange Monday, new details emerged about the uncertain statuses of three of the five Iranians who were granted clemency by Washington and remained on U.S. soil. VOA has learned that of the three Iranians remaining in the United States, a U.S. Justice Department website showed Kambiz Attar Kashani was released from a federal prison in Michigan on Monday with no comment from his lawyer on his future plans; court records showed Amin Hasanzadeh lost his U.S. permanent residency on August 23; and Kaveh Lotfolah Afrasiabi received a presidential pardon, but federal prosecutors asked a judge to only dismiss the charges against him temporarily. The other two Iranians granted clemency by the U.S., Mehrdad Ansari and Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani, arrived in Tehran late Monday after being flown to Qatar earlier in the day. A VOA inspection of the U.S. Bureau of Prisons inmate locator website on Tuesday showed Kashani, a dual U.S.-Iranian citizen, was released from the Federal Correctional Institution in Milan, Michigan, the previous day. The website, which appears to be updated daily, had shown on Monday that Kashani was still at the prison. Kashani had been sentenced to 30 months in prison for conspiracy to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. He was freed about five months before his originally scheduled release date of February 2024. Kashani's lawyer Babak Hoghooghi-Esfahani did not immediately respond to a VOA message sent earlier Tuesday requesting comment on Kashani's future plans. A court document seen by VOA showed that Hasanzadeh, who has been on supervised release at his home pending trial on charges of violating U.S. sanctions, lost his permanent residency when it expired on August 23. There was no word on when he would be released from court-ordered restrictions on his movements. A letter written to a judge in Michigan on August 23 by Hasanzadeh's attorneys said the expiry will make it "substantially harder" for him to prove his "lawful status for purposes of obtaining employment and certain public benefits." The letter also said it will be "likely impossible for him to return to the U.S. were he to travel internationally." One of the attorneys, Benton Martin, declined to comment when VOA contacted him Monday to ask about Hasanzadeh's status. In a Monday court filing seen by VOA, Afrasiabi's attorney Sabrina Shroff asked a judge to cancel his January trial date due to his criminal case being "resolved [by] the actions of the Executive Branch" of the U.S. government. She also requested that Afrasiabi be released from pretrial supervision of his movements and that his bail payments be refunded to him. A subsequent filing Tuesday by the federal prosecutors in Afrasiabis case, seen by VOA, asked the judge to grant his lawyers requests for legal relief. But the prosecutors also wrote that because Afrasiabis pardon is conditioned on a number of terms, they were asking the judge to dismiss the charges against him without prejudice. The judge approved the governments motion in another filing seen by VOA later Tuesday, meaning Afrasiabis case was terminated. But the dismissal of the case without prejudice meant that the prosecutors retained a right to charge Afrasiabi again in future under the unspecified conditions. Afrasiabi, a U.S. permanent resident, had been awaiting trial since being charged by a New York federal court in 2021 for allegedly acting as an unregistered agent of Iran's government. Jason Brodsky, policy director of U.S. advocacy group United Against Nuclear Iran, wrote on the social media platform X earlier Monday that granting Afrasiabi clemency raises the question of what future activities he would engage in while remaining in the U.S. Here is a look at the five American citizens released Monday as part of the prisoner swap between the United States and Iran: Siamak Namazi Siamak Namazi, 51, was the longest held Iranian American detainee. He was arrested in 2015 and sentenced the following year to 10 years in Tehran's Evin Prison on charges of espionage. Months later, his father was arrested when he visited Iran to check on his son. The elder Namazi was later placed on house arrest and permitted to leave Iran in 2022 due to medical reasons. Namazi is an energy executive who promoted closer ties between the West and Iran. Emad Sharghi Emad Sharghi, 59, is an Iranian American venture capitalist who moved to Iran with his wife in 2017. He was detained the following year, but his family says he was released after going through eight months of interrogations. Authorities rearrested Sharghi as he was trying to leave the country while on bail. He was charged with espionage and sentenced to 10 years in prison. Morad Tahbaz Morad Tahbaz, 67, was also sentenced to 10 years of prison. He is an Iranian American conservationist who also holds British citizenship. In 2018, he was arrested during an Iranian crackdown on environmental activists. Tahbaz had reportedly remained in prison despite an agreement between the United Kingdom and Iran that he be released from prison on furlough. Unnamed detainees Two additional prisoners were released Monday. They wished, however, to remain anonymous. DERNA, LIBYA (ASSOCIATED PRESS) The death toll in Libya's coastal city of Derna has soared to 11,300 as search efforts continue following a massive flood fed by the breaching of two dams in heavy rains, the Libyan Red Crescent said Thursday. Marie el-Drese, the aid group's secretary-general, told The Associated Press by phone that a further 10,100 people are reported missing in the Mediterranean city. Health authorities previously put the death toll in Derna at 5,500. The storm also killed about 170 people elsewhere in the country. The flooding swept away entire families in Derna on Sunday night and exposed vulnerabilities in the oil-rich country that has been mired in conflict since a 2011 uprising that toppled long-ruling dictator Moammar Gadhafi. Here's a look at where things stand: What happened in Libya? Daniel, an unusually strong Mediterranean storm, caused deadly flooding in communities across eastern Libya, but the worst-hit was Derna. As the storm pounded the coast Sunday night, residents said they heard loud explosions when two dams outside the city collapsed. Floodwaters gushed down Wadi Derna, a valley that cuts through the city, crashing through buildings and washing people out to sea. A U.N. official said Thursday that most casualties could have been avoided. "If there would have been a normal operating meteorological service, they could have issued the warnings," World Meteorological Organization head Petteri Taalas told reporters in Geneva. "The emergency management authorities would have been able to carry out the evacuation." The WMO said earlier this week that the National Meteorological Center issued warnings 72 hours before the flooding, notifying all governmental authorities by email and through media. Officials in eastern Libya warned the public about the coming storm, and on Saturday, they ordered residents to evacuate coastal areas, fearing a surge from the sea. But there was no warning about the dams collapsing. How does conflict in Libya affect the disaster? The startling devastation reflected the storm's intensity, but also Libya's vulnerability. Oil-rich Libya has been divided between rival governments for most of the past decade one in the east, the other in the capital, Tripoli and one result has been the widespread neglect of infrastructure. The two dams that collapsed outside Derna were built in the 1970s. A report by a state-run audit agency in 2021 said the dams had not been maintained despite the allocation of more than 2 million euros for that purpose in 2012 and 2013. Libya's Tripoli-based prime minister, Abdul-Hamid Dbeibah, acknowledged the maintenance issues during a Cabinet meeting Thursday and called on the Public Prosecutor to open an urgent investigation into the dams' collapse. The disaster brought a rare moment of unity, as government agencies across the country rushed to help the affected areas. While the Tobruk-based government of eastern Libya is leading relief efforts, the Tripoli-based western government allocated the equivalent of $412 million for reconstruction in Derna and other eastern towns, and an armed group in Tripoli sent a convoy with humanitarian aid. What's happening now? Derna has begun burying its dead, mostly in mass graves, said eastern Libya's health minister, Othman Abduljaleel on Thursday. More than 3,000 bodies were buried by Thursday morning, the minister said, while another 2,000 were still being processed, He said most of the dead were buried in mass graves outside Derna, while others were transferred to nearby towns and cities. Abduljaleel said rescue teams were still searching wrecked buildings in the city center, and divers were combing the sea off Derna. Untold numbers could be buried under drifts of mud and debris, including overturned cars and chunks of concrete, that rise up to 4 meters high. Rescuers have struggled to bring in heavy equipment as the floods washed out or blocked roads leading to the area. Libya's eastern based parliament, The House of Representatives, on Thursday approved an emergency budget of 10 billion Libyan dinars roughly $2 billion to address the flooding and help those affected. How many people have been killed? As of Thursday, the Libyan Red Crescent said that 11,300 people have been killed, and a further 10,100 are reported missing. However, local officials suggested that the death toll could be much higher than announced. In comments to the Saudi-owned Al Arabia television station on Thursday, Derna Mayor Abdel-Moneim al-Ghaithi said the tally could climb to 20,000 given the number of neighborhoods that were washed out. The storm also killed around 170 people in other parts of eastern Libya, including the towns of Bayda, Susa, Um Razaz and Marj, the health minister said. The dead in eastern Libya included at least 84 Egyptians, whose remains were transferred to their home country on Wednesday. More than 70 came from one village in the southern province of Beni Suef. Libyan media also said dozens of Sudanese migrants were killed in the disaster. Is help reaching survivors? The floods have displaced at least 30,000 people in Derna, according to the U.N.'s International Organization for Migration, and several thousand others were forced to leave their homes in other eastern towns, it said. The floods damaged or destroyed many access roads to Derna, hampering the arrival of international rescue teams and humanitarian assistance. Local authorities were able to clear some routes, and humanitarian convoys have been able to enter the city over the past couple of days. The U.N. humanitarian office issued an emergency appeal for $71.4 million to respond to urgent needs of 250,000 Libyans most affected. The office, known as OCHA, estimated that approximately 884,000 people in five provinces live in areas directly affected by the rain and flooding. The International Committee of the Red Cross said Thursday that it has provided 6,000 body bags to local authorities, as well as medical, food and other supplies distributed to hard-hit communities. International aid started to arrive earlier this week in Benghazi, 250 kilometers west of Derna. Several countries have sent aid and rescue teams, including neighboring Egypt, Algeria and Tunisia. Italy dispatched a naval vessel on Thursday carrying humanitarian aid and two navy helicopters to be used for search and rescue operations. U.S. President Joe Biden said the United States would send money to relief organizations and coordinate with Libyan authorities and the United Nations to provide additional support. WAD MADANI, SUDAN (AGENCE FRANCE PRESSE) Flames gripped the Sudanese capital Sunday and paramilitary forces attacked the army headquarters for the second day in a row, witnesses reported, as fighting raged into its six month. "Clashes are now happening around the army headquarters with various types of weapons," witnesses told AFP Sunday from Khartoum, while others reported fighting in the city of El-Obeid, 350 kilometers (about 220 miles) south. Battles between the regular army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces intensified Saturday, resulting in several key buildings in central Khartoum being set alight. In social media posts verified by AFP, users shared footage of flames devouring landmarks of the Khartoum skyline, including the Greater Nile Petroleum Oil Company Tower a conical building with glass facades that had become an emblem of the city. Users mourned Khartoum, a shell of its former self, in posts that showed buildings their windows blown out and their walls charred or pockmarked with bullets continuing to smolder. Since war erupted on April 15 between army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his former deputy, RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, nearly 7,500 people have been killed, according to a conservative estimate from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project. It has displaced more than five million people, including 2.8 million who have fled the relentless air strikes, artillery fire and street battles in Khartoum's densely-populated neighborhoods. The millions that remain in the city woke up Sunday to find clouds of smoke obscuring the skyline, as the sound of bombs and gunfire burst through the capital. "We can hear huge bangs," witnesses told AFP Sunday from the Mayo district of southern Khartoum, where the army targeted RSF bases with artillery fire. At least 51 people were killed last week in air strikes on a market in Mayo, according to the United Nations, in one of the deadliest single attacks of the war. The worst of the violence has been concentrated in Khartoum and the western region of Darfur, where ethnically-motivated attacks by the RSF and allied militias have triggered renewed investigations by the International Criminal Court into possible war crimes. There has also been fighting in the southern Kordofan region, where witnesses again reported on Sunday artillery fire exchanged between the army and the RSF in the city of El-Obeid. CANBERRA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- A majority of Australians are failing to actively prepare for emergencies despite growing concerns, a survey has found. The survey, which was published on Monday by the Australian Red Cross, found that only 10 percent of Australians are taking steps to actively prepare for emergencies in the lead-up to summer. Among participants in the survey, 58 percent said they expect to be impacted by heat waves in the next 12 months - up from 25 percent in 2018 - and 34 percent said they were worried about the impacts of bushfires compared to 26 percent five years ago. The proportion of Australians who are concerned about floods and heavy rains in the next 12 months has increased from 29 percent in 2018 to 43 percent in 2023, the survey found. Penny Harrison, the Australian Red Cross Chief of Staff, said in a media release that the data shows Australians have an increased awareness of the disaster risk but are not actively preparing. "People living in Australia are clearly thinking about what may lie ahead, with one in three worried about heat waves, bushfires and nearly one in two expecting floods and heavy rain over the next 12 months, however that concern is not translating into active preparation," Harrison said. "We know the better prepared you are, the better your capacity to respond and recover from any emergency. Just thinking about it is not enough." The report was released to coincide with the start of Emergency Ready Week - an annual red cross initiative encouraging preparedness ahead of bushfire season. The national council for fire and emergency services, the Australasian Fire Authorities Council (AFAC), in August put large parts of eastern and central Australia on high alert for spring and summer. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has warned most of Australia is facing a hot and dry spring and summer driven by climate change and likely concurrent El Nino and positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) events. Developing countries on Monday urged a shake-up in the global order to help the world's poorest, at a United Nations summit on ambitious anti-poverty promises that remain far off track. Hoping to show a focus on more than the war in Ukraine, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres convened the development summit on the eve of the annual General Assembly, where Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to take center-stage. In 2015, UN member states adopted the Sustainable Development Goals, 17 targets to transform the world by 2030 including by completely ending extreme poverty and making sure not a single of the planet's eight billion people goes hungry. Guterres called for a "global rescue plan" on the targets, as he acknowledged that only about 15 percent were on track to be met and that metrics on some were heading in reverse. "The SDGs aren't just a list of goals. They carry the hopes, dreams, rights and expectations of people everywhere," Guterres told the summit. "In our world of plenty, hunger is a shocking stain on humanity, and an epic human rights violation. "It is an indictment of every one of us that millions of people are starving in this day and age." Addressing the summit, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said, "Ultimately, the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals depends on the fundamental reform of global social, economic and political relations." - Ambitions sidetracked -- In a declaration adopted by consensus Monday, UN member-states reaffirmed their commitment to the goals and to eradicating extreme poverty, defined as living on less than $2.15 a day. The nations agreed to "act with urgency" to implement the "plan of action for people, planet, prosperity, peace and partnership, leaving no one behind," the declaration said. But efforts to devote money and attention to the goals have been repeatedly set back, including by the Covid-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine and other tumult, worsening climate catastrophes and sharp increases in the cost of living. The declaration also backed in general terms reform of international financial institutions, weeks after a G20 summit in New Delhi focused on increasing representation in the World Bank and International Monetary Fund. But Mia Mottley, prime minister of Barbados, told the summit that the issue went deeper. "The calls for international reform of the financial system really are not just about governance, but they are for us about longer money, cheaper money, and being able to use it for the purposes for which we need to reduce all of our inequalities and achieve the elements of the SDGs," she said. - Poorest 'counting' on momentum - French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna, addressing the summit, said that Paris was increasing its development assistance despite an era of tight budgets, with special attention on climate. "We need to demonstrate an electroshock of solidarity," she said. The United States, which has pumped $43 billion in military aid into Ukraine to help defend against Russian invasion, has hoped to show it is also interested in development. Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US ambassador to the United Nations, called the declaration on Monday "historic." "This is an important step, but it must be followed by accelerated action," she said. "All member-states must continue to drive progress forward. The world's most vulnerable are counting on us, and we must leave no one behind." But one senior European diplomat warned the gap was growing between the developing and developed worlds. One goal for the summit is "making sure that that rift doesn't grow further," the diplomat said, speaking on condition of anonymity. abd-dt/sct/md/dw It was the first debate between the major party candidates for Minnesota attorney general, and if nothing else it moved the two men from talking about each other to talking to each other. Not that it resolved any of the vast differences between DFL nominee Keith Ellison and GOP nominee Doug Wardlow. Ellison is a progressive Democrat who has led his partys left flank in the state Legislature and, since 2007, as a member of Congress. Wardlow is a conservative Republican and a libertarian who is comfortable among the Tea Party. And while they dont appear to care for each other all that much, the forum Friday night on TPTs Almanac where they were joined by Grassroots-Legalize Cannabis Party candidate Noah M. Johnson was civil, with each apologizing each time they interrupted the other, which they frequently did. So what could voters learn from the forum? 1. No one can say the candidates for attorney general are all the same They could say it, but it just would be hard to justify given the three names on the ballot. Ellison is a progressive Democrat, Wardlow is a conservative Republican and Johnson is part of an effort to legalize recreational marijuana. On issue after issue, Ellison and Wardlow took starkly different positions. Wardlow criticized Ellison for supporting policies that keep state and local law enforcement from asking about the immigration status of people with whom they come in contact. Ellison has been critical of Trump Administration immigration policies, while Wardlow has said he supports them. And while both Ellison and Wardlow have said they would be willing to put the clout of the state behind national litigation to uphold or knock down national policy, their targets would be completely different. Yet both also accuse the other of threatening to politicize the office by making it a player in the national debate over Trump Administration policies. Ellison cited a current lawsuit by 20 Republican attorneys general against the Affordable Care Act and its protections for people with pre-existing conditions something more than two million Minnesotans have. It has become a major campaign point nationally, with Democrats saying it is proof that the popular feature of Obamacare is opposed by Republicans. Wardlow said he wouldnt have joined the suit had he been in office. I dont think its right for Minnesota. But Wardlow said that the state had a great system for covering pre-existing conditions before Obamacare passed and said Ellison helped break that system by voting yes. And he said Ellison had committed to joining litigation in other areas, from net neutrality to child separation at the border to obstruct the presidents agenda. Responded Ellison: It is appropriate for the attorney general of the state of Minnesota to join with other attorneys general Republican or Democrat, Doug when it is to the benefit to the people of the state of Minnesota. 2. In Minnesota, all the children are above average. And all the candidates for attorney general are extremists That is at least how Ellison and Wardlow are trying to portray each other. During the forum, TPT showed a Wardlow ad that describes Ellison as extreme five times in less than 30 seconds. It raised allegations that Ellison was supportive of Sara Jane Olson, who was charged with trying to kill police officers in the 1970s; voted against the Farm Bill in Congress; and said he supported open borders. Ellison and state Democrats have been pointing out Wardlows legal work for a national group that has challenged LGBT protections and the Affordable Care Act. In the same segment that aired the Wardlow ad against Ellison, a video from Ellisons website showed Wardlow testifying in St. Paul against schools providing unisex bathrooms for transgendered students. While Wardlow said he was testifying on behalf of a client, that client was the Alliance for Freedom, a national conservative legal organization that is the centerpiece of the DFL claims that Wardlow is too conservative. 3. Keith Ellison appears to have lost his mojo Keith Ellison has long been one of the DFLs biggest assets. That is partly true because he has bucked up the organizational clout of his 5th Congressional District, the states bluest and truest progressive district. But it is also true because he is an excellent campaigner and has been willing to share his popularity with other candidates in the state. And as deputy chair of the Democratic National Committee, he has been sharing it nationally. That changed five weeks ago when his former live-in girlfriend, Karen Monahan, raised (and expanded upon) charges first published on social media by her son: that Ellison engaged in what she called narcissistic abuse and once physically abused her during a 2016 argument, yanking her by the feet while she laid on a bed. Ellison denied the physical confrontation and said that cell phone video of the incident that Monahan says she recorded hasnt been released because it doesnt exist. Both the state and national Democratic parties have said they are investigating. The National Organization for Women quickly called on Ellison to step down but many friends and family members, including Ellisons ex-wife, have come to his support. The Monahan accusations, however, have put him on the defensive, which has made him far less helpful to other candidates. Friday it seemed as though they also have robbed him of his willingness to be assertive when needed. He knew the questions about Monahan would come up, either directly from Wardlow or through questions by hosts Eric Eskola and Cathy Wurzer. It turns out that it was all three, and Ellison spent a lot of his time responding to the charges. Theyre not true. I have said that they are not true, Ellison said. He also said he didnt know when the investigations will be complete because they are independent. When Wurzer asked him about Monahans offer to speak with investigators, but only if she could appear before them with Ellison, he said he wouldnt agree to do that. We broke up two years ago for a reason. I dont want to be in the relationship and therefore I left the relationship and so to get back in touch with her again is not something Im interested in doing, he said. Ive met somebody new and Im trying to pursue my life and move on. Wardlow, echoing his campaign ad, said, I think two credible, strong allegations of domestic abuse is enough, a reference to Monahan and a 2006 allegation by another woman. Theres none actually, Ellison said. There are two, Wardlow said. Theres zero, Ellison. The 2006 allegation was from a woman who his campaign got a restraining order against, he said. But more-importantly to his election efforts, Ellison wasnt always effective Friday at turning the spotlight on Wardlow. In trying to portray Wardlow as too conservative, he cited a lawsuit led by Alliance for Freedom that challenged a Colorado state finding against a baker who refused to provide a cake for a same-sex marriage. Ellison, however, did not tie Wardlow directly to that case, instead saying the issue is live right now in this race and saying he would defend the rights of LGBT residents of Minnesota in a similar case. He did accuse Wardlow of helping with legal challenges to the Affordable Care Act, but such charges required listeners to know more about the background of the case than most voters probably do. During the debate, Ellisons campaign sent press releases dubbed Fact Checks with background and several accusations that Ellison could have made himself on the program to Wardlow and to voters. One example of that was Ellisons failure to challenge Wardlows assertion that he wouldnt be involved in national lawsuits on national political issues. While the forum was airing live, the campaign sent out a copy of a Wardlow campaign piece that asked supporters to rank the things he would do if elected. One of them is Defend President Trumps agenda in court. Ellison didnt mention it on air. 4. Showing up is 80 percent of success No one knows that better than Johnson. While much of the forum focused on Ellison and Wardlow, by Almanacs rules, any candidate with at least 5 percent support in an independent poll gets a spot on the couch, so Johnson was also given a spot on the shows couch. His pitch: that marijuana laws are antiquated and that there are benefits to making recreational use legal in Minnesota. But he also took positions that place him squarely among the states progressive voters. He countered Wardlows claim that those on the left want open borders, saying that it remains very difficult to gain entry into the U.S. After Ellison and Wardlow argued over which candidate supported law enforcement more, Johnson said the attorney general is the peoples lawyer, not just the polices lawyer. And he said he was concerned with the Trump travel ban and other extremely discriminatory immigration policies that he said targeted people because of their religion. None of those positions were groundbreaking, but if there are DFL voters unsure of Ellison due to the Monahan allegations, Johnson could appeal to them. Which is why Wardlow was likely happier than Ellison that Almanacs rules put Johnson in the room. MinnPost On 23 September 2023, the transitional governments of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger signed a security pact establishing the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). Our priority is the fight against terrorism in the three countries declared the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Mali, Abdoulaye Diop The signing of this agreement confirms the analysis published on our website to the effect that the coups detat in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger respond to the same crisis situation and are not commensurate with those in Guinea and Gabon [1]. It also confirms our take on the agreement reached by the United States with the new authorities in Niger, undermining Frances influence in the region. Furthermore, as indicated in our analysis, this agreement does not modify the strategy of the new Nigerien authorities, but allows them to buy time in view of the regional war under preparation [2]. The leak-to-official-release pipeline. Photo: NDZ/Star Max/GC Images Kim Petras is ready to feed the beast once again. On September 18, she released Problematique just three months after releasing her previous album, Feed the Beast. The storied new album was intended to be Petrass major-label debut before it leaked in August 2022. In December 2021, prior to it leaking, she told Paper magazine that its very European-themed. Im from Europe, I grew up around Italian disco, dance, techno, German techno, theres a whole scene. Some of the songs from the leaked album Revelations, Hit It From the Back, and Sex Talk, specifically made it onto Feed the Beast and are no longer included in the version of Problematique that is set to be released under Dr. Lukes Amigo Records. With Problematique out (through official channels), Petras will be able to perform the new tracks many of her fans already know on tour beginning September 27. Included on the track list is Treat Me Like a Slut sequel Treat Me Like a Ho and the Paris Hilton collab All She Wants. Be good and find the full track list for the updated album below. Side A Problematique Je TAdore All She Wants (feat. Paris Hilton) Born Again Something About U Side B Treat Me Like a Ho Confession Deeper Dirty Things Love Ya Leave Ya Mary Beth Fisher and Bubba Weiler in Swing State. Photo: Liz Lauren Rebecca Gilman sees a lot of metaphors in the prairie, an ecosystem that may seem unruly and unproductive at first glance but follows its own delicate laws and maintains a network of life-sustaining biological relationships. In her play Swing State, Peg (Mary Beth Fisher), a widow in her 60s, has dedicated herself to caring for 40 acres of natural prairie around her farmhouse in rural Wisconsin, encroached on from all sides by cultivated farmland, full of chemicals that seep into the soil and choke Pegs naturally occurring grasses, kill the insects that thrive there, and in turn, starve out the birds and other animals. The prairies the natural order of things; the farmland, human intervention. Or the prairies the rare communal space, and the farmland is capitalism. Or, if you take a look at the political angle of that title, the prairie is whatever bit of civic unity theres left in America, and the farmland is the division and hatred encroaching from all sides. Another thing you might want to be like a prairie is a play itself, though Swing State doesnt quite achieve that. In her play, Gilman lets the thematic interpretations multiply like those wild grasses while limiting the acreage of her plot. Coming to New York after an acclaimed run in Chicago with its cast from the Goodman Theatre intact, Swing State provides an effective, direct, though limited and realist, take on our moment. Its good: acted well, competently directed by Robert Falls, building over the course of a tense and ominous single act and exploding in a climax, but never conjuring the strange wildness that would make it great. You can tell where everything was planted here. Were in the early fall of 2021, and Peg, a former teacher and guidance counselor, is carrying on as best she can in her farmhouse after the recent death of her husband. Her only regular visitor is Ryan (Bubba Weiler), an ex-convict in his 20s in recovery whom she looks out for by giving odd jobs around her house. Early on, Peg announces her plans to deed the prairie to a wildlife conservation group and home to Ryan after her death, but then a few farm tools and an old rifle are stolen from her shed. The unforgiving fire-and-brimstone local sheriff, Kris (Kirsten Fitzgerald), who also happens to be a relative of the farmers surrounding Peg, suspects Ryan and leads an investigation, aided by her more conciliatory protegee, Dani (Anne E. Thompson), also a former student of Pegs. These people, like the animals in the ecosystem around them, are stuck in a hostile environment, and they start lashing out at each other to survive. Peg is a role that Gilman wrote with Fisher in mind, and Fisher approaches it with a chilled certainty. In her first scene, shes alone making zucchini bread onstage in the middle of a tchotchke-filled orange-and-brown 1970ish kitchen and living room, designed by Todd Rosenthal, that projects a certain fussy, liberal-bleeding-heart-on-the-plains vibe (NO TV! Gilman notes in her script). Peg has total ecological collapse on the mind and delivers monologues about the state of the land around herwhich insects have died, which birds and reptiles might followin speeches that Fisher delivers in a just-the-facts manner that make their outlook seem all the more apocalyptic. Shes warm, especially across from Weilers tight-wound Ryan and Thompsons sweetly anxious Dani, but also firm and bleak. Her plan to give the land to the trust involves making sure its protected in perpetuity, or until the world ends. So like, another fifteen years. Pegs a fascinating character, especially for this moment: Someone who believes in and has dedicated herself to community right until shes stopped believing it can still existexactly the kind of person who might be most wounded by having social connections severed by a pandemic. The trouble is, Gilman gives us too much of her despair too quickly: The play builds to the other characters realizing the extent of Pegs depression, but we see it in the first scene, just in the way Fisher holds a knife as shes chopping walnuts. That keeps Swing State in structural stasis, holding Peg in one emotional position until everyone else catches up to her. Too much of the play is occupied with catching us up, often in gratuitous asides in which the characters circle back to histories they both knowsuch as Pegs relationship with her dead husband, or the details of Ryans incarcerationjust for the sake of the audience. The production, as a result, presses against its guardrails. Falls often directs the actors to sit at a kitchen table for long conversations, which makes the performances pinched and exaggerated, as if trying to compensate for their limited physical range. Often, the characters announce theyve suddenly remembered they need to reveal something to one other. Weiler tends to overemphasize Ryans nerves and overplay his breakdowns, while Thompson portrays Dani nearly shrinking into the background. The little bits of business, such as when we see Fisher carefully extracting seeds from a wildflower, go a long way toward breaking up the talky monotony. Gilman can be funny, too, in a suitably midwestern dark styletheres a good, grim thread about Danis using Pegs lessons about being a guidance counselor while acting as a police interrogatorbut shes let too much humor get leached out of this soil. More texture, whether of humor or any other kind of human strangeness, would help complicate the relatively straightforward political analogy going on. With the plays title in mind, Peg and Kris become stand-ins for red and blue perspectives, fighting for the souls of the purple next generation of Ryan and Dani. Gilman ends up aiming for a left-centrist middle groundI struggled with a scene that implies that Dani could remain a cop, but change the system by being goodwhich might go down more easily if we could see the characters as people rather than archetypes. Once that stolen rifle reappears, Gilman arrives at a climax that is brutal but also clearly forecast and limited, and it lands like a hit with a rubber mallet. I felt the tragedy and kicked reflexively, but I didnt absorb it emotionally. Theres a meta-tragedy, maybe, in the fact that the same divisiveness and defensiveness that Peg decries within the play has made Gilmans writing schematic and careful. Swing State anticipates its interpretations and makes sure to underline its points, but all that careful hedging is to its detriment. If only something less cultivated could grow here. Swing State is at the Minetta Lane Theatre. YANGON, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- At least four people died and four people were injured on Monday in a bus accident in Hlaingthaya Township of Yangon Region, Myanmar, according to traffic police. The incident occurred on Monday evening when a speeding public bus rammed into a cyclist and then crashed into a power pole and roadside shops. Two women and one man died at the scene, and another man was dead on arrival at the hospital, the police said, adding that four people were injured. "We don't know if the death toll will increase or not among the injured," an official from the rescue organization in Hlaingthaya told Xinhua on Monday. The injured were rushed to the Hlaingthaya Hospital and are receiving medical treatment. The Instituto Cervantes in Rome hosts Migranti, an exhibition by Peruvian illustrator Issa Watanabe, from 20 September until 28 October. The show comprises 17 illustrations from Watanabe's award-winning Migrants, described as "a heartstoppingly beautiful wordless picture book about migration and empathy". The book features a group of animals travelling through a dark forest, charting the sacrifices they make and the losses they endure on their difficult journey. The exhibition also includes 11 illustrations never shown in public before - part of a new book soon to be published - along with other recent works by Watanabe. For more details see Instituto Cervantes website. Share Comment on this story Comment Add to your saved stories Save When the actors of SAG-AFTRA joined the writers of the WGA on the strike line after failing to reach a new labor agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture & Television Producers, one of the first points of concern was made clear by an anonymous studio executive to Variety: Fall festivals are f***ed. With most of those events now in the rearview, the outcome is a bit more complicated than that; the fall festivals carried on, albeit in a more muted form, with awards buzz and big-money deals taking noticeable hits. The strikes have certainly complicated the landscape, but their nuances make the winners and losers hard to discern at least for now. In todays cinematic ecosystem, the falls film festivals Venice, Telluride, Toronto and New York are an indispensable launching ground for the prestige pictures that hope to dominate the year-end best-of lists and award ceremonies, culminating in the big enchilada: the Academy Awards. Dozens of films are angling for the finite attention of media and audiences, carefully choosing the festivals that offer the most visible berth and create maximum impact. Advertisement This is where the participation of top-tier talent comes into play. A splashy premiere slot, with the films bold-faced names dressed to the nines on the red carpet, can help garner the attention that becomes a commodity during festival season. You cant premiere movies anywhere without your stars, that anonymous executive told Variety. No stars, no movie. Such an acknowledgment seems to strengthen SAG-AFTRAs position. Nevertheless, AMPTPA has dug in its heels for a long strike, and the effects of it may have been most keenly felt at the Toronto International Film Festival. The event can make or break a potential awards contender, arguably more than any other film festival. Its recent Peoples Choice Award winners have included future Oscar winners for Best Picture Nomadland and Green Book, as well as Best Picture nominees The Fabelmans, Belfast, Jojo Rabbit, and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. (A warm reception there can also secure high-dollar distribution deals for independent productions, such as 2016s Jackie, the following years I, Tonya, and The Sound of Metal in 2019.) Advertisement Its also the biggest and busiest of the fall festivals, which makes it especially reliant on star power. The events high-dollar sponsors hope to see their branding looming behind many a million-dollar smile on the step-and-repeats at gala premieres. Such opportunities werent entirely out of the question this year. Projects that have signed interim agreements with SAG-AFTRA, agreeing to the guilds current proposals, are allowed to continue with production and promotion, including film festival appearances. And since the Directors Guild of America reached an agreement with AMPTPA in June, directors are free to promote their work at will. As Torontos slate began to roll out in late July, it included a seemingly outsized number of films from directors better known as actors, including Patricia Arquette (Gonzo Girl), Ethan Hawke (Wildcat), Michael Keaton (Knox Goes Away), Anna Kendrick (Woman of the Hour), Viggo Mortensen (The Dead Dont Hurt), Chris Pine (Poolman), Kristin Scott Thomas (North Star), and Billy Bryk and Finn Wolfhard (Hell of a Summer). Were they selected in the hope that these high-profile actors might choose to attend as directors? Actors directing films isnt unusual, festival CEO Cameron Bailey told the New York Times, but we saw a larger number this year and invited several, before we got news of the strike. Advertisement If thats spin and it was, in fact, a workaround, it didnt work. The directors whose films had been granted a SAG waiver attended, along with several members of their casts as did actors from other waivered productions. Those whose films didnt have interim agreements stayed at home, leaving their producers to introduce their films and, in many cases, to read their directors messages of thanks and solidarity; As proud as we are of this film, Kendricks producer Miri Yoons read, on her behalf, at Woman of the Hour, we are equally proud to stand with our union in demanding fair wages. Share this article Share Time will tell what effect the labor actions of this summer and fall will ultimately have on the Toronto festivals class of 2023. There have certainly been grumblings among the film critics in attendance that the events failed play for star power adversely affected the overall quality of this years slate; Knox, Poolman and North Star received some of the worst reviews of the festival (I saw two of the three, and concur), which left the worst of both worlds: screening mediocre films without even the benefit of their star directors. So why didnt those films also seek interim agreements? Perhaps it was because they feared that the AMPTPA wouldnt pull out its checkbook to buy them, which actor Peter Sarsgaard called a scare tactic. It may have been a successful one; the first major acquisition of the fest, Anna Kendricks Woman of the Hour, didnt seek a waiver, and Netflix picked it up in a reported $11 million deal. Advertisement If that film can sell for that hefty price tag without the benefit of a star-studded festival premiere, then a change could be in store to the longstanding wisdom about what it takes to launch a fall prestige picture. More From Bloomberg Opinion: Does Hollywood Know That Writers Cant Pay Bills With Love?: Kim Kelly Drew Barrymores Good Intentions Fell Flat: Paul Hardart The Managing Class Has Failed Frontline Workers: Adrian Wooldridge This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners. Jason Bailey is a film critic and historian whose work has appeared in the New York Times, Vulture, the Playlist, Slate and Rolling Stone. He is the author, most recently, of Fun City Cinema: New York City and the Movies That Made It. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Share Comment on this story Comment Add to your saved stories Save One of the worlds greenest countries is weeks away from becoming the first to sell UN-backed carbon credits. One of the worlds most promising frontier oil markets is planning a $9 billion development to become a major crude producer. Believe it or not, theyre the same nation. Get a curated selection of 10 of our best stories in your inbox every weekend. ArrowRight Suriname a densely-forested former Dutch colony on the northern coast of South America wants to market both hydrocarbons, and the offsets needed to cancel out their environmental damage. The fact that such a simultaneous proposal is being considered is a sign of how threadbare our systems for calculating carbon footprints are becoming. If we want these rules to be fit for the 21st century, thats going to need reform. Suriname in 2021 registered a reduction of 4.8 million metric tons of carbon dioxide, thanks to forest growth thats absorbing more greenhouse gases than the country emits, Reuters reported last week. About 30 companies are studying whether to buy them, according to the report. Advertisement At the same time, TotalEnergies SE Chief Executive Officer Patrick Pouyanne was meeting with the countrys President Chandrikapersad Santokhi to kick off studies on an offshore oilfield that could contain 700 million barrels of crude when it starts producing in 2028. Such a reserve could emit about 75 times as much climate pollution as the forest credits would absorb or nearly eight times as much in a given year, at planned production levels. The proposals hang on two separate loopholes in international climate rules. The first is that fossil fuels are only counted where theyre burned, not where theyre produced. Australia likes to boast that its 437 million metric tons of domestic emissions only account for about 1.1% of the global total but that figure more than triples if you include the roughly 1 billion tons that are spewed out when its coal and gas exports find their way into a power plant. Like Suriname, Australia is happy to make money selling fossil fuels to the world it just doesnt want to get the blame for the damage theyre going to cause. The second loophole is that verification of carbon credits is a confusing morass of standards and frameworks that has become riddled with questionable assumptions. The offsets Suriname is offering are based not on planting new forests, but on refraining from cutting down existing ones so-called REDD+ credits. That system has come under heavy criticism over the past year after the Guardian newspaper reported that deforestation generally wasnt any slower than in other areas, which would mean the credits were largely bogus. A paper published in the journal Science last month found that only 6.2% of offsets from REDD+ projects it examined were actually generating emissions reductions. Advertisement Suriname isnt alone in its contradictory ambitions. Of the six countries that have already certified themselves as achieving their net-zero targets, three are, or have aspirations to be, major oil producers.(1) Neighboring Guyana saw the fastest pace of economic growth globally last year after an ExxonMobil Corp.-led consortium began production in 2019. Its offshore fields contain about 11 billion oil-equivalent barrels, similar to the reserves of Norway, Algeria or Brazil. Hess Corp., Exxons junior partner in the project, last year bought $750 million of carbon credits to preserve Guyanas forests. Across the Atlantic, Gabon a longstanding oil producer that first joined the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries in 1975 in 2019 became the first country in Africa to receive payments from a separate UN-backed anti-deforestation program. Plans to issue the largest-ever slice of carbon credits may now be on hold thanks to a military coup last month. Mozambique, which is working toward becoming one of the worlds biggest gas exporters, in 2021 was the first to receive REDD+ payments from yet another program, this one funded by the World Bank.(2) The REDD+ system has attracted criticism because the avoided deforestation its based on depends on comparing forest cover with a counterfactual of what might have happened if the carbon credits hadnt been sold. Its much more expensive to plant a new forest than to not cut down an existing one, so without rigorous verification such programs are little better than greenwashing. Advertisement Thats particularly going to be the case in small countries like Suriname, Guyana and Gabon. Economic activity is naturally going to switch from low-value, land-intensive industries like logging, rice, sugar and palm oil when a massive offshore oilfield is discovered. That doesnt make the decline in deforestation much of an asset on the worlds carbon ledger. Share this article Share Governments of such countries can hardly be blamed for finding ways to exploit the mess of climate rules weve set up. Developing economies need every cent of foreign income they can get, whether it comes from selling oil or carbon offsets. The rest of the world doesnt have to go along with the charade, however. If we want the worlds natural environments to play a role in our path to net zero, were going to need to find ways to close up these loopholes in carbon accounting rules and give the process more credibility. The medieval Catholic Church showed its moral bankruptcy when it started selling indulgences for sinners to buy absolution for their misdeeds. Like that system, the carbon offsetting industry is badly in need of a reformation. Advertisement More From Bloomberg Opinion: Why All Carbon Credits Arent Created Equal: Lara Williams The Carbon Offset Market Keeps Growing, Unfortunately: Mark Gongloff Domino Effect in Africa, Embarrassment in Paris: Lionel Laurent (1) The six are Benin, Bhutan, Comoros, Gabon, Guyana, and Suriname. (2) Another of the six net-zero countries, Comoros, is adjacent to Mozambiques offshore gas fields and has sought to exploit them without success. This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners. David Fickling is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering energy and commodities. Previously, he worked for Bloomberg News, the Wall Street Journal and the Financial Times. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion 2023 Bloomberg L.P. SYDNEY, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Health authority in the Australian state of Queensland on Monday issued a public health warning of Listeria, as the potentially deadly bacteria was detected in a commercial chicken product. The alert also came a day after Queensland Health reported a Listeria outbreak in the state's southeast. The health authority said in a statement that M & J Chickens' easy serve breast fillet shredded chicken has been identified by investigators as the probable cause of five Listeria cases across Queensland, three in New South Wales (NSW) and one in Victoria. At a media conference held on Monday, Queensland Health Chief Health Officer John Gerrard confirmed that the strain of Listeria found in the chicken samples was the same as the isolates detected in the human cases diagnosed in Queensland hospitals. He noted that the chicken product originated from Marrickville in Sydney and it was distributed in Queensland. "At this stage, we do not know all the locations where this product has been sent. It is not a retail product, so it won't be in your home kitchen. But there will be a lot of commercial kitchens, hospitals, restaurants, cafes, maybe nursing homes, and other places where food is prepared in large quantities," said Gerrard. The health officer also told reporters that as the incubation period can be up to two months, more cases would be recorded in the coming weeks. Listeriosis is a serious infection in humans caused by the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. Even with prompt treatment, some patients may die of the disease, particularly among the elderly and people who have other serious medical problems. Earlier this month, NSW Health reminded local communities to avoid foods that can cause listeriosis, after the state saw a rise in both the number of confirmed cases and the number of people treated in hospital for their illness. "Already in 2023, we've recorded 25 cases of listeriosis among NSW residents, which is more than we usually expect to see in a whole year," said Keira Glasgow, director of NSW Health's One Health branch. The relationships between Donald Trump and his three eldest children are likely to be on display as they are all scheduled to take the witness stand in the civil fraud trial in New York over the Trump Organizations business practices. The boss of the Australian Retailers Association has urged respectful debate on the Indigenous Voice to parliament referendum, saying instances where customers have taken retail workers to task over their employers views on the issue are unacceptable. The association on Monday said the referendum has added a new dimension to customer aggression and anti-social behaviour in the retail environment, exacerbating concerns about the mental and emotional well-being of some frontline retail workers. The nations retail industry body said some consumers had put pressure on staff about the views of their employers about the referendum. Credit: Michele Mossop We understand there are different views in the community about the Voice and the referendum, Australian Retailers Association chief Paul Zahra said. Sadly, some consumers have taken retail workers to task about the position held by their employers, which is completely unacceptable. Gone are the days of the Botox-overloaded frozen face. Dermatologist Dr Cara McDonald of Complete Skin Specialists says 2023 is the year of a more natural aesthetic with procedures that address skin quality and ageing. We are seeing faces that are less frozen and augmented and more beautiful skin, she says. One person channelling this trend is our current girl crush, actor Jessica Biel. Credit: snapperimages.com A recent innovation, polynucleotide fillers ($950), contain fragments of DNA obtained from salmon. McDonald says these target skin quality for that airbrushed look and act through hydration, antioxidation and the stimulation of fibroblasts, which contribute to the formation of connective tissue. They also activate the natural mechanisms of tissue repair. Another procedure thats putting runs on the board is Emface (Sydney, $1000; Melbourne, $1000). As skin ages, atrophying muscles and loss of collagen, elastin and volume leave their marks. Emface targets lax skin and a slack jawline in four 20-minute treatments, each given at fortnightly intervals. The process channels radiofrequency (RF) and High Intensity Facial Electrical Stimulation (HIFES) energies, targeting skin texture with heat and muscle stimulation. The heat helps to increase collagen and thousands of electrical pulses contract facial muscles to help improve strength and target sagging. A top-up is required every 18 months. The states top prosecutor has warned that the criminal justice system is failing First Nations victims of crime and her office frequently terminates prosecutions involving Indigenous complainants because existing trial processes are not culturally safe. NSW Director of Public Prosecutions Sally Dowling, SC, said adapting the justice system to serve the needs of First Nations complainants was a priority, including advocating for judges to give directions to jurors situating the evidence of Indigenous witnesses in a cultural context. NSW Director of Public Prosecutions Sally Dowling, SC, wants to make the criminal justice system fairer for First Nations complainants and witnesses. Credit: Nick Moir Its our strong view that theres a potential for First Nations witnesses to be prejudiced in terms of their evidence being understood if lawyers, judges and juries arent familiar with the cultural and language differences that can characterise their evidence, Dowling said. Sociolinguistics experts have identified the respectful avoidance of eye contact, long silences and gratuitous concurrence saying yes regardless of whether a person agrees with a proposition as features of some Aboriginal communication styles that may be misinterpreted by non-Aboriginal jurors. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is being urged to lobby Chinese President Xi Jinping not to invade the self-governing island of Taiwan when he makes a landmark visit to Beijing this year rather than pursue a narrow focus on repairing Australias trade relationship with China. Warning that Beijing uses bilateral meetings to try to divide and conquer other nations, Taiwans chief representative in Australia pleaded with local officials not to be lazy by falling into the trap of uncritically accepting Beijings claims about Taiwans territorial status. Douglas Hsu, Taiwans chief representative in Australia, said Beijing pursues a divide and conquer strategy. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Veteran diplomat Douglas Hsu, who assumed his role in Canberra last month, said Albanese could help prevent conflict by telling Xi that Australia will not accept any unilateral change to the status quo by force in the Taiwan Strait. You have to use this kind of opportunity to send the message loud and clear to Xi Jinping himself that we care about peace and stability in the region, Hsu said in an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age. Thieves stole dozens of items of clothing by the Balmain fashion brand that were due to be unveiled at Paris Fashion Week later in September. The French fashion houses creative director Olivier Rousteing said a gang hijacked a delivery truck transporting the companys latest line from one of the Paris airports to Balmains headquarters in the early hours of Saturday. Designer Olivier Rousteing accepts applause after the conclusion of a presentation in Paris in March. Credit: AP They made off with more than 50 pieces of clothing along with the truck, Rousteing said, without specifying which airport the clothes were coming from. Rousteing said the news soured what had begun as a good day preparing for his next show. ISTANBUL, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Turkiye announced the start of restoration work on Hagia Sophia, one of the most important historical sites in its largest city, Istanbul, local media reported Monday. The restoration project, initiated by the Turkish Culture and Tourism Ministry, aims to "eliminate the centuries-old fatigue" of the 1,500-year-old Hagia Sophia, the Hurriyet Daily News reported. According to officials, the restoration and maintenance work, which could span over 50 years, will be carried out gradually, section by section, without a complete closure of the site. The monument, which initially served as a cathedral and later as an Ottoman imperial mosque, reopened as a museum in 1935, unveiling some unique features of Ottoman and Byzantine art. It was turned into a mosque again in 2020. Hagia Sophia, located on the European side of Istanbul, is one of the most visited tourist sites in the city. New York: Yelling that the future and their lives depend on ending fossil fuels, tens of thousands of protesters have kicked off a week in the US when leaders will try once again to curb climate change primarily caused by coal, oil and natural gas. But protesters say its not going to be enough. And they aimed their wrath directly at US President Joe Biden, urging him to stop approving new oil and gas projects, to phase out current ones and to declare a climate emergency with larger executive powers. Biden has declared his intention to run for re-election next year. We hold the power of the people, the power you need to win this election, said 17-year-old Emma Buretta of Brooklyn of the youth protest group Fridays for Future. If you want to win in 2024, if you do not want the blood of my generation to be on your hands, end fossil fuels. The March to End Fossil Fuels featured such politicians as Congress member Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and actors Susan Sarandon, Ethan Hawke, Edward Norton, Kyra Sedgwick and Kevin Bacon. But the real action on Broadway was where protesters crowded the street, pleading for a better but not-so-hot future. It was the opening salvo to New Yorks Climate Week, where world leaders in business, politics and the arts gather to try to save the planet, highlighted by a new special United Nations summit on Wednesday. MOSCOW, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Russia's Pacific Fleet is holding tactical military exercises aimed at protecting the Northern Sea Route, the country's defense ministry said on Monday. The "Finval-2023" exercises are taking place in the waters of the Chukchi and Bering Seas as well as on the Chukotka Peninsula, according to the defense ministry. Around 10,000 military personnel and more than 50 units of military equipment are involved in the exercises, it said. Among those are naval aircraft and helicopters, and coastal defense missile systems. During the first phase of the drills, Russian forces conducted combat exercises that focused on defeating a group of ships in the northeastern part of the Bering Sea. Military personnel practiced conducting missile strikes from a guided-missile cruiser, a nuclear submarine, and a coastal defense missile system. The drills also involved missile and artillery firing, as well as exercises on anti-submarine, anti-aircraft and anti-landing defense. All of the exercises "are defensive in nature" and intended to improve "the training of forces and troops" during operations on Russia's northeastern borders, according to the ministry. NEW YORK, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- United Auto Workers (UAW) union and the Big 3 auto companies were set to resume talks on Sunday, being seemingly no closer to reaching deals than they were when autoworkers went on strike on Friday. The union has rejected an offer from U.S. automaker Stellantis to increase workers' wages by 21 percent, Shawn Fain, head of UAW said on Sunday. "I don't really want to say we're closer," he said. "It's a shame that the companies didn't take our advice and get down to business from the beginning." Rather than focusing on one company as it has in the past, UAW is striking at one plant for each automaker to start a strategy that preserves union cash while leaving plenty of room to expand. Fain repeatedly cited the 40-percent pay raises for the Big 3 CEOs over the past four years, which are in stark contrast with the 6-percent raises autoworkers have received since their last contract in 2019. CEO pay has ballooned for decades, while wages for ordinary workers have lagged. "It's definitely a no-go. We've made that very clear to the companies," Fain said in an interview. As the days of the strike increase, so will its impact. In a statement Saturday, Ford says 600 workers were laid off from their Michigan assembly plant because of a halt in production when their paint department was called to strike. Facing the laid-off, Fain responded that these workers won't go without income and said this is only a tactic being used for the union to settle for less. He criticized the company's behavior, saying it sees the workers as bargaining chips. The union had talks with Ford on Saturday. It was going back to the bargaining table on Sunday with General Motors and plans to talk with Stellantis on Monday, a spokesman said. Shares of Australia's BlueScope Steel Ltd slipped to an over three-month low as the ongoing UAW strike in the United States weighs on the Australian steel-maker's North American business. BlueScope Steel shares fell as much as 3.8 percent, their lowest since June 2, and are on track to log a sixth straight session of losses. U.S. President Joe Biden said he supports the union. But his climate agenda could conflict with the walkout and the labor demands as it may well require less labor. The union had reportedly been negotiating with all three automakers simultaneously, in a break from previous rounds of contract talks, for significantly higher pay and new benefits. Particularly, the UAW called for protections for workers with traditional auto jobs as companies increasingly invest in EV production. Analysts warned that the strike, though limited for the time being, may develop into a prolonged one and a menace to the U.S. economy, as it could cut production by thousands, push up vehicle prices and aggravate supply chain disruptions. If all 150,000 workers for the Big 3 auto companies strike for at least 10 days, it would cost the U.S. economy roughly 5 billion dollars, a local economy group estimated. Oman's OQ Gas Networks (OQGN), the pipeline business of state oil company OQ, aims to raise up to OMR297 million ($771 million) from its initial public offering (IPO) that will open for subscription next week. OQGN on Monday announced the price range and details of the subscription period for its proposed IPO on the MSX. OQ is selling about 2 billion shares, representing a 49 per cent stake in OQGN. OQGN has set the price range for the IPO at 131 baisas to 140 baisas per share, which would give the company a valuation of up to OMR606 million ($1.57 billion), according to a statement on the Capital Market Authority's website. The company has received irrevocable commitments three anchor investors. They are: the Saudi Omani Investment Company, a wholly owned entity of the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia; Falcon Investments, a subsidiary of Qatar Investment Authority, the sovereign wealth fund of Qatar; and Fluxys International SA/NV. The anchor investors have, in aggregate, irrevocably committed OMR89,124,240 ($231,493,529) to the IPO representing a purchase price of Bzs140 per share, subject to the terms contained in their respective anchor investment agreements, said a statement. The IPO is set to open for subscription on September 26 and will close for Category I Institutional (Non-Individuals) on October 9 and for Category II Retail on October 5. The IPO is expected to be listed for trading on MSX on October 24, 2023. The IPO prospectus has been approved by the Capital Market Authority (CMA) of Oman, which regulates and develops Oman's financial markets for the capital market and insurance sectors. The offering will be conducted in the manner as approved by the CMA and will be offered in a parallel offering as follows: -- The selling shareholders intend to offer up to 49% of OQGNs total share capital. Immediately following the offering, a minimum of 51% shareholding will continue to be held by OQ. The company and the selling shareholders reserve the right to amend the size of the offering at any time prior to the end of the subscription period in their sole discretion, subject to applicable laws and the approval of the CMA. -- All the shares being sold by the selling shareholders are existing ordinary shares and the company will not receive any proceeds from the sale of the shares in the offering, all of which will be paid to the selling shareholders. The offering expenses will be paid by the selling shareholders. Category I Offer: 848,802,288 offer shares have been allocated for Category I applicants, as follows: (a) 20 per cent of the offer shares (equivalent to 50 per cent of the Category I offer shares i.e., 424,401,144 shares) shall be reserved for subscription by local applicants. The allocation of offer shares to local applicants shall be made on a proportionate basis. Applicants for offer shares in the Category I Offer for can apply for a minimum of 100,000 offer shares and in multiples of 100 thereafter. (b) 20 per cent of the offer shares (equivalent to 50 per cent of the Category I Offer shares i.e., 424,401,144 shares) shall be available for subscription by non-local applicants. Allocation of offer shares to non-local applicants shall be determined by the selling shareholders in consultation with the joint global coordinators. Anchor investors: 636,601,716 offer shares have been allocated for anchor investors, being 30 per cent of the offer. In this respect, the company has received irrevocable commitments from the Saudi Omani Investment Company, a wholly owned entity of the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia; Falcon Investments, a subsidiary of Qatar Investment Authority, the sovereign wealth fund of Qatar; and Fluxys International SA/NV. The anchor investors have, in aggregate, irrevocably committed OMR89,124,240 to the IPO representing a purchase price of Bzs140 per share, subject to the terms contained in their respective anchor investment agreements. Category II Offer: 636,601,716 offer shares have been allocated for Category II, being 30 per cent of the offer (allocation to Category II applicants to be made on a proportionate basis). If the aggregate demand in Category II is greater than 30% of the offer shares, the CMA may decide that a minimum number of Category II offer shares be distributed equally among Category II applicants, and the remaining Category II offer shares shall be allocated on a pro-rata basis. Applicants for shares in the Category II offer can apply for a minimum of 1,000 shares and in multiples of 100 thereafter. If the aggregate demand in Category II is less than or equal to 30 per cent of the offer, then after full allocation to the Category II applicants, the balance of the shares will be made available to the Category I applicants in the respective proportion outlined above for allocation at the offer price, if there is oversubscription in Category I. The completion of the offering and admission is subject to market conditions and obtaining all necessary regulatory approvals, the statement said. Bank Muscat, BofA Securities and EFG-Hermes UAE Limited (acting in conjunction with EFG Hermes UAE) have been appointed as joint global coordinators, and Bank Muscat has been appointed as issue manager. Talal Al Awfi, OQ Group Chief Executive Officer and OQGN Chairman, said: We are immensely proud of this milestone and look forward to the launch of the IPO subscription period. OQGN has a compelling story, a track record of consistent delivery and is now taking a significant step forward to its next phase of growth." Mansoor Al Abdali, Managing Director of OQGN, said: We are confident in our position as the exclusive operator of gas transportation network in Oman and in our ability to provide critical infrastructure for both our domestic and international partners. Since announcing our intention to float on the MSX, we are pleased to see our strong position and performance reflected by significant interest from investors including our three, globally renowned, anchor investors. We believe that OQGN represents an attractive investment proposition, and we are excited for what is to come. Muteb Al Shathri, Acting CEO of the Saudi Omani Investment Company, said: "The companys high cash flow visibility, underpinned by a robust regulatory environment and experienced leadership team were critical in determining our investment in OQGN. We are pleased to underline our commitment to the investment by securing an anchor position in the forthcoming IPO. We have confidence in OQGNs development and trajectory, as well as in Oman as an attractive investment destination and are excited to be part of the largest IPO to date on the Muscat Stock Exchange. This investment underscores our commitment and our long-term investment strategy for Oman." Mansoor Ebrahim Al-Mahmoud, CEO, Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), said: We are proud to partner with OQGN in its IPO and recognise the critical role OQGN plays in connecting gas producers and customers as part of Omans broader infrastructure network. QIA recognizes OQGNs strong growth potential through further network expansion and adaptation to renewable energy sources." Pascal De Buck, Chief Executive Officer, Fluxys, said: This investment aligns perfectly with our strategy to develop low carbon energy value chains through partnerships. As Oman will become a leading export hub for renewable hydrogen, its a unique opportunity for Fluxys to play a key role in accelerating the energy transition and bringing renewable hydrogen to Belgium and Europe. -TradeArabia News Service SACRAMENTO, United States, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. state of California is going after some of the world's largest oil companies, with lawsuit and legislation to hold them accountable for the damage caused by climate change-induced storms and wildfires, officials said Saturday. In the past week, California, the largest economy in the United States, sued five major oil companies for covering up climate risks caused by fossil fuels and passed a legislation to require companies that operate in the state and make over 1 billion U.S. dollars annually to disclose their greenhouse-gas emissions. The lawsuit was filed on Friday against oil companies Exxon, Shell, Chevron, ConocoPhillips and BP, as well as their trade group, the American Petroleum Institute (API). The complaint said the defendants had created a public nuisance, damaged natural resources and state property, and violated California law by misleading state residents with false advertising and misleading environmental marketing. "The climate crisis is after all fossil fuel crisis, period ... And these guys (oil companies) have been playing us for fools," said California Governor Gavin Newsom at a conference hosted by the Climate Group and livestreamed on Sunday. The governor said the big oil companies had long been deceiving the public over the risks associated with fossil fuels and causing billions of dollars in damage to communities and the environment. According to the complaint, although the companies had known since at least the 1960s that the burning of fossil fuels would warm the planet and change the climate, they denied or downplayed climate change in public statements and marketing. The complaint included evidence of the defendants' knowledge of the environmental risks, such as a 1968 research report commissioned by the API, and an internal Exxon memo in 1978. "As a consequence, in the world that I'm living in, the hots are so much hotter, the dries are so much drier, the wets are so much wetter," said Newsom at the conference. Allentown, PA (18103) Today Mostly cloudy with a scattered rain or snow shower in the morning, then turning partly sunny. Brisk and chilly.. Tonight Turning out mostly clear and cold with lighter winds. A killing freeze likely with mid to upper 20s for many. By: Allentown City Council member Ce-Ce Gerlach Who do you call when you see someone sleeping in the hallway of your building? What number do you dial to get a counselor to intervene in a mental health crisis? Currently, there is not anyone to call for help instead of handcuffs. The City of Allentown had an opportunity to start a Mobile Community Response Team (MCRT) consisting of mental health experts to handle non-violent calls, such as mental health, homelessness and addiction. However, the Lehigh County Board of Elections killed the proposal before our community had a chance to vote. After neighbors delivered nearly 4,000 signatures to establish a MCRT via ballot referendum this fall, our County Board of Elections unilaterally and without reason failed to put the question up for a vote. Their decision and ability to eliminate an opportunity to increase mental health services in Allentown through a ballot referendum is anti-democratic. This 3-person unelected board (none of whom live in Allentown) delivered a huge slap in the face to Allentown voters. After the murder of George Floyd in 2020, residents, activists and organizers looked nationwide for ways to better serve our vulnerable neighbors. Eighty-six U.S. municipalities have versions of MCRTs. Allentown neighbors came together and met with the current and previous Police Chiefs, held a county-wide stakeholders meeting, and brought experts to City Council meetings to share knowledge. Three years later nothing happened. Progress has always been met with resistance, delay, fear, and anger. This isnt the way we do things" was said about Black and white kids learning together. As women fought for equal rights, naysayers shouted, Now is not the time! The residents of Allentown waited long enough, so like any group of people without structural powerthey organized. When the politicians refuse to listen to the people, the ballot referendum process allows for ordinary residents to take back their power. The City Charter states that residents can have a question placed on the ballot by collecting at least 2,000 petition signatures from Allentown voters. The petitioners committee for the MCRT proposal submitted over 3,800 signatures, more than any city council candidate received in votes this spring. Those signers are voters - citizens and members of our community - and they deserve to be heard. As I circulated a petition, I spoke with Republicans, Democrats, Independents, Libertarians, former correctional officers, teachers and medical professionals. Almost everyone shared a personal story of how mental health, addiction or housing instability has affected their lives. Mental health struggles cross all divides. A plethora of voters would have turned out in November if this question was on the ballot. The City accepted and verified the signatures. Per City Charter, Council then had an opportunity to approve the proposed ordinance to establish the MCRT program, but everyone on Council voted no except for myself and Natalie Santos. Per Section 1007, the question should be placed on the ballot of the next election. However, the County Board of Elections prevented that. The petitioners committee followed the systems process, but it didnt matter. The Citys administration voiced opposition to starting MCRTs publicly and hired an outside attorney to circumvent the democratic process. Decisions like this make many people disillusioned with the system and our right to vote. What hurts me most is that the same people that undemocratically obstructed our efforts to establish an MCRT dont have anything better to offer our most vulnerable neighbors. Our system isnt working. If this system was working then why were there an average of 107 seriously mentally ill people in jail each day last year (Lehigh County CJAB 2022)? Why were 45.5% of the population in Lehigh County Jail prescribed psychotropic medications in 2022 (Lehigh County CJAB 2022)? Why was there such resistance to allowing the voters of Allentown to vote on the issue? Why were people within the system so fearful of progress? Being unsheltered, having a mental health challenge or struggling with substance use are not crimes. People need helpnot handcuffs. Organizers and residents met with police chiefs across the country and locally who support a non-law enforcement response for non-violent situations that are helping police across the nation. We talked with executive directors in places like Dayton, Denver, and Durham. In Durham, despite initial hesitancy, police and decision makers are now thankful for more time to respond to violent crime and engage with the community. Those in positions of power in the City and County continue to claim that addressing mental health is important to them. My question to them is, if mental health, homelessness, and addiction are so important to you, what are you willing to do about it? Now is the time for people in positions of power to work with those in the community who brought forth the referendum. The ball is in your court. Editors note: For more on the Lehigh County Board of Elections decision, see here. Reading, PA (19601) Today Mostly cloudy with a scattered rain or snow shower in the morning, then turning partly sunny. Brisk and chilly.. Tonight Turning out mostly clear and cold with lighter winds. A killing freeze likely with mid to upper 20s for many. Traveling is a delightful adventure, but some destinations present unique challenges that can test even the most experienced globetrotters. From language barriers to unfamiliar customs, certain places can push travelers out of their comfort zones. Here are ten such destinations that seasoned explorers might find particularly challenging. 1. China: Navigating a Cultural Tapestry China, a captivating blend of ancient traditions and rapid modernization, can be a perplexing experience for travelers. Negotiating the language barrier, understanding local customs, and managing the vastness of this country can be overwhelming. Travelers often grapple with the complex Chinese script and diverse dialects. Learning a few basic phrases in Mandarin can significantly ease communication. Additionally, understanding the nuances of Chinese etiquette is crucial to avoid unintentional offenses. 2. Russia: A Land of Contrasts Russia, spanning across two continents, is known for its cultural richness and diverse landscapes. However, it can pose challenges due to its extreme climate and language differences. The Cyrillic script can be a puzzle for travelers, making navigation and communication difficult. Planning visits during milder seasons and learning basic Russian phrases can be helpful. Moreover, respecting local customs and traditions is essential to ensure a smooth travel experience. 3. Japan: Merging Tradition with Modernity Japan is a fascinating blend of cutting-edge technology and deep-rooted traditions. For travelers, the unique cultural norms, intricate etiquettes, and high cost of living can be daunting. Navigating the high-tech cities like Tokyo can be overwhelming. It's advisable to familiarize yourself with Japanese train systems, as they are the primary mode of transportation. Embracing Japanese customs, such as bowing and removing shoes indoors, will enhance your travel experience. 4. India: A Melting Pot of Diversities India's diversity is both its allure and challenge. The vast cultural variations, numerous languages, and contrasting lifestyles can be overwhelming for visitors. Understanding the local customs, such as proper greeting gestures and eating habits, is essential. Moreover, having a well-planned itinerary that accounts for the country's vast geography and climate diversities will enhance your travel comfort. 5. Egypt: Unraveling Ancient Mysteries Egypt, known for its ancient history and breathtaking landmarks, can be both captivating and bewildering for travelers. The scorching desert climate and language barriers can pose difficulties. Familiarize yourself with Arabic numerals and basic phrases to facilitate communication. When exploring the Pyramids and ancient temples, hiring a knowledgeable guide is advisable to fully appreciate the historical significance of the sites. 6. Brazil: Coping with Diverse Terrain Brazil's expansive landscape, varying from vibrant cities to the Amazon rainforest, presents a travel challenge in itself. The language barrier and safety concerns can add to the complexity. Learning some Portuguese phrases and being cautious about personal safety, especially in crowded areas, is vital. Researching the areas you plan to visit and understanding local transportation systems will ensure a smoother journey. 7. Saudi Arabia: Adhering to Strict Customs Saudi Arabia, with its deeply ingrained traditions and conservative culture, can be a perplexing destination. Strict laws and customs related to dress, behavior, and alcohol consumption can be challenging for travelers. Respect for local customs, particularly in dress and conduct, is essential. Being aware of the laws and adhering to them will help travelers navigate this fascinating but rigid country. 8. South Korea: Embracing a Tech-Forward Society South Korea's rapid technological advancement and unique cultural norms can be both fascinating and bewildering. The fast-paced lifestyle and language barrier can pose challenges. Learning a few Korean phrases and using translation apps can enhance communication. Respecting the locals' work ethic and embracing their love for technology will contribute to a more enriching travel experience. 9. Morocco: Getting Lost in the Medina Maze Morocco's bustling markets and old medinas are enticing but can be maze-like for travelers. The language barrier and persistent vendors can be overwhelming. Navigating through the labyrinthine streets requires a good sense of direction. Engaging with the locals in a friendly manner and being firm but polite with vendors can help you make the most of your Moroccan adventure. 10. Thailand: Decoding the Land of Smiles Thailand, with its warm hospitality and exotic allure, can still pose challenges due to language barriers and cultural differences. Learning a few Thai phrases and understanding their customs and traditions, especially regarding the royal family, is essential. Being polite and respectful will go a long way in making your trip enjoyable and memorable. In conclusion, while these destinations may present unique challenges, they also offer unparalleled experiences and memories for those willing to venture beyond their comfort zones. Time-Traveling Through Bollywood Will these fast trains ever make flying obsolete? If you want to visit the beach with children then plan to visit these beaches Germany, a country known for its rich history, remarkable culture, and thriving economy, holds numerous fascinating facts that often remain unnoticed. Let's uncover some lesser-known aspects of this remarkable nation. The Land of Castles Germany is home to around 25,000 castles, showcasing a deep-rooted historical and architectural heritage. These structures stand as living witnesses to the nation's past. Germany boasts around 25,000 castles, each telling a unique story of the country's historical and architectural heritage. Forests Galore Germany is enveloped by lush forests, covering about a third of its total land area. These woods are carefully maintained, serving both environmental and recreational purposes. Forests occupy approximately one-third of Germany's total land area, highlighting the nation's commitment to environmental preservation and providing ample recreational spaces. The Invention of the Automobile Germany is the birthplace of the automobile, with Karl Benz being credited for creating the first gasoline-powered car in 1885-1886. This invention revolutionized the way people traveled and shaped the modern world. Karl Benz, a German engineer, is the genius behind the first gasoline-powered car, marking the inception of the automobile era and transforming transportation globally. Celebrating Oktoberfest Oktoberfest, a world-famous beer festival, originated in Germany. It's an annual event in Munich, attracting millions of visitors from across the globe to indulge in traditional German brews and vibrant festivities. Oktoberfest, a global phenomenon, originated in Germany, particularly in Munich. This traditional beer festival captivates millions of visitors worldwide, offering an authentic taste of German culture and beverages. Bread Varieties Abound Germany is renowned for its diverse bread culture, producing over 300 types of bread, each with its unique taste and texture. Bread holds a special place in German cuisine and is a staple for many. German bread culture is a delight, boasting a vast array of over 300 distinctive types of bread, reflecting the nation's deep-rooted culinary traditions and preferences. The Grimm Brothers and Fairytales The Grimm Brothers, Jacob and Wilhelm, were German academics and authors known for their collection of fairytales, including classics like Cinderella, Snow White, and Hansel and Gretel. The Grimm Brothers, Jacob and Wilhelm, are celebrated figures in German literature, famous for their enchanting collection of fairytales that have enchanted generations across the world. The Berlin Wall's Fall The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 marked a pivotal moment in history, symbolizing the end of the Cold War and the reunification of Germany. This event brought about a significant transformation in both the nation and the world. The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 stands as a monumental event in history, signifying the end of the Cold War and the reintegration of a divided Germany, triggering a wave of change globally. A Nation of Inventors Germany is known for its remarkable inventors and inventions, including the printing press, aspirin, MP3 technology, and X-rays. This legacy of innovation continues to thrive in modern Germany. Germany has a rich history of pioneering inventions, giving the world groundbreaking innovations such as the printing press, aspirin, MP3 technology, and X-rays, highlighting the nation's enduring spirit of innovation. Home to the First Christmas Tree Germany is believed to be the birthplace of the Christmas tree tradition. The first decorated Christmas tree dates back to the 16th century, making it an integral part of the nation's Christmas celebrations. Germany holds the honor of being the purported birthplace of the Christmas tree tradition, dating back to the 16th century, and this tradition has since become an integral part of Christmas festivities globally. The Love for Sauerkraut Sauerkraut, fermented cabbage, is a popular German dish. This tangy and flavorful food item is not only a culinary delight but also offers numerous health benefits. Sauerkraut, a beloved German dish made from fermented cabbage, is not just a culinary delight but also packs a punch in terms of health benefits, showcasing the Germans' penchant for both taste and wellness. The Influence of Goethe Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, a German literary giant, made significant contributions to world literature. His works, including "Faust" and "The Sorrows of Young Werther," continue to influence writers and thinkers worldwide. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, a literary luminary from Germany, has left an indelible mark on the world of literature with his timeless works like "Faust" and "The Sorrows of Young Werther," shaping the literary landscape for generations to come. The Christmas Market Tradition Germany is famous for its enchanting Christmas markets, where visitors can revel in the festive atmosphere, savor seasonal treats, and shop for handcrafted gifts. These markets are an integral part of the holiday season. Germany's Christmas markets are renowned globally, offering a magical ambiance, delectable seasonal treats, and handcrafted gifts, making them an indispensable part of the country's cherished holiday traditions. The Youthful Voting Age Germany permits 16-year-olds to vote, recognizing their right to engage in the democratic process at an earlier age. This forward-thinking approach encourages active participation and awareness among the youth. In Germany, the voting age is 16, allowing young individuals to participate in the democratic process and have their voices heard, promoting a sense of civic responsibility and engagement from an early age. The Land of Renewable Energy Germany is a global leader in embracing renewable energy sources, aiming for a sustainable future. The nation heavily invests in wind, solar, and biomass energy, showcasing its commitment to environmental conservation. Germany stands at the forefront of the renewable energy movement, making substantial investments in wind, solar, and biomass energy, exemplifying its dedication to a sustainable future and environmental preservation. A Multilingual Nation Germany is a linguistically diverse nation, with over 80 million people speaking German as their first language. However, a significant portion of the population is also proficient in English and other languages. Germany, a linguistically diverse nation, sees over 80 million individuals speaking German as their first language, yet a considerable portion of the population is proficient in English and other languages, reflecting a global outlook. The Tradition of Beer Purity Germany takes pride in its beer purity law, Reinheitsgebot, dating back to 1516. This law ensures that German beer is made using only natural ingredients like water, malt, hops, and yeast. The Reinheitsgebot, a beer purity law dating back to 1516, is a source of pride for Germany, emphasizing that German beer is crafted using only natural ingredients such as water, malt, hops, and yeast. The Impactful Beethoven Ludwig van Beethoven, a legendary composer, and pianist, was born in Germany. His musical contributions, despite his deafness, have had a profound influence on classical music, making him an iconic figure. Ludwig van Beethoven, an iconic composer and pianist, was born in Germany, leaving an indelible mark on classical music despite his deafness, making him a timeless musical maestro of global acclaim. The Tradition of Spargelzeit Spargelzeit, or the asparagus season, is a cherished German tradition. Germans eagerly await this time, celebrating the harvest of asparagus with numerous dishes and festivities. Spargelzeit, the asparagus season, is a much-anticipated tradition in Germany, marked by enthusiastic celebrations and a plethora of dishes centered around the cherished asparagus harvest. The Advent of Kindergarten Germany introduced the concept of Kindergarten, a pre-school educational institution, in the 19th century. This innovative approach to early childhood education has since been adopted worldwide. Germany pioneered the concept of Kindergarten, a pre-school educational institution, in the 19th century, laying the foundation for early childhood education practices that have been adopted globally. The Impactful Bauhaus Movement The Bauhaus movement, an influential art and design movement, originated in Germany in the early 20th century. Its avant-garde approach continues to inspire modern design and architecture globally. The Bauhaus movement, an influential art and design movement, originated in Germany in the early 20th century, leaving an enduring impact on modern design and architecture worldwide with its avant-garde philosophy. In summary, Germany's allure goes beyond its famous landmarks and renowned history. From the diverse array of bread to its pioneering inventors and contributions to arts and culture, Germany's impact on the world is both historic and ongoing. A Man's Unique Journey: Marrying Seven Brides in One Grand Day How to Share Internet Data with Another Mobile: A Comprehensive Guide Exercise for Primary Prevention: A Path to a Healthier Future Wits' Path to Gender Equity: Insights from Bath Spa University's Vice-Chancellor Wits University's TEEO invited university transformation committees to discuss gender equity with Bath Spa University's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sue Rigby. In pursuit of gender equity and inclusivity in academia, the Transformation and Employment Equity Office (TEEO) at Wits University extended a warm invitation to several university transformation committees to an important discussion with Professor Sue Rigby, the Vice-Chancellor of Bath Spa University. The purpose of her visit was to engage in a discussion that would lay the foundation for a comprehensive gender equity strategy, policy, and plan for Wits. Under the welcoming roof of the Wits Club, over 30 participants came together to be part of this crucial discussion. Among them were key Wits figures including Dr Bernadette Johnson, the Director of the TEEO, Wits Chancellor Dr Judy Dlamini, and Maria Wanyane, the Manager of Social Justice and Diversity in the TEEO. To ease into the discussion, Charlene Beukes-Mabaso eloquently shared her perspectives on gender equity within Wits while Dr Anlia Pretorius shed light on the challenges associated with disability rights and practices faced by Wits students. As the dialogue unfolded, Johnson and Wanyane expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the valuable insights from the conversation. They also underscored the strides made by Wits in addressing pressing transformational issues, spanning topics such as gender equity, bullying, micro aggression, access to campus, race, transitioning, language, breastfeeding, disability, renaming of buildings, institutional culture, and diversifying the academy. The highlight of the event arrived with the engaging talk by Professor Sue Rigby, a trailblazer in her own right. Rigby shared insights into her approach to addressing gender equity at Bath Spa University. She illustrated her commitment to gender equity by sharing personal anecdotes, highlighting the challenges she faced as a woman in academia. Rigby attended a rural school in the 50s and remembers being laughed off about her career choice to be a palaeontologist and being propositioned by men just because she was one of the few women in class when she was at University. Every lecturer and academic in those days was a man, it would be true to say that every woman was propositioned by at least half of the Faculty during that time. But it was 1980 and people found it odd that my husband also allowed me to go out of the home to work instead of taking care of the children. This transparency about her own experiences served to raise awareness and normalise discussions about gender equity in the room. As a woman in a prominent leadership role, Rigby serves as a role model, demonstrating that women can excel in leadership positions in academia. Her position as Vice-Chancellor is a testament to her commitment to advancing gender equity. In her recommendations for a gender equity strategy at Wits University: Rigby emphasized that addressing gender equity requires structural changes. She advocated for a strategic, top-down approach, where support for gender equity initiatives should come from the highest levels of the University. She suggested that the experience of being a woman with children could be seen as an asset in leadership roles. She pointed out that skills such as self-management, self-control, understanding, empathy, and leadership can be cultivated through parenting, making it a valuable experience in the context of leadership. Moving forward together The Chancellor of Wits also shared her perspectives and experiences on the issue of a gender equity strategy, policy, and plan for Wits. In her presentation, Dlamini echoed some of Rigby's academic experiences, indicating a commonality in the challenges they faced as women in academic and leadership roles. This understanding of gender-related challenges motivated and pushed Dlamini to establish the Female Academic Leadership Fellowship (FALF) programme which aligns with the broader goal of promoting gender equity and inclusivity in academic and management leadership positions. Her commitment to addressing the underrepresentation of women, particularly African and Coloured South African women, in leadership roles was appreciated by FALF fellows who were also present in the discussion. Dlamini's emphasis on considering both race and gender in academic rankings and leadership positions mirrored the need for a comprehensive approach to diversity and equity, aligning with the broader conversation about intersectionality that Rigby touched upon. Moreover, she recognised a strong pipeline of African females at associate and lecturer levels underscoring the importance of acknowledging and nurturing talent at various stages of academic and leadership development. This approach resonates with Rigby's emphasis on recognising diverse experiences and potential in leadership roles. Dlamini's belief that individuals in leadership positions have a responsibility to make a change aligned with Rigby's call for structural solutions and top-down support. I come from a social group that is in the minority when it comes to leadership, I've always believed that no matter what type of leadership position you have, whether it has executive responsibility or not, you do have a responsibility to make a change, especially in our country because of where we find ourselves and how women are still quite behind when it comes to any position of leadership, in any sector, for that matter, Dlamini reminisced. As the event drew to a close, attendees expressed gratitude for the platform that allowed them to delve into these pivotal issues of gender equity in the University. The discussion successfully brought to the fore a comprehensive array of concerns encompassing gender, disability, race, class, access, breastfeeding on campus, staff transitioning, and the imperative to approach these challenges within an African context and avoid using a Western discourse to solve the said challenges. In the end, the consensus was, "Let us find a way to move forward, but when you move forward, you have to move forward together." American Express Company is a multinational financial services company based in New York City. The company provides credit cards, charge cards, traveler's cheques and other financial services to individuals and businesses worldwide. Founded in 1850, American Express has been a pioneer in the credit card industry and has developed a reputation for offering premium products and services that cater to high-income consumers. The company operates in over 130 countries and employs over 75,000 people globally. Stephen J. Squeri has served as American Express Chairman and Chief Executive Officer since 2018, succeeding Kenneth I. Chenault. Squeri joined the company in 1985 and has held various leadership positions. He is credited with leading the company's digital transformation and developing new partnerships with technology companies such as Apple, Google and Amazon. Other key management team members include Chief Financial Officer Jeffrey C. Campbell and Vice Chairman Douglas E. Buckminster. American Express has consistently generated strong financial results, with revenue increasing consistently over the past few years. The company's net income has also grown during this same time frame. The company's profit margin has remained relatively stable at around 14%. American Express has maintained a strong balance sheet, with a debt-to-equity ratio and a price-to-book ratio consistent with industry averages. Over the past couple of years, American Express' stock has performed well, leading its industry peers. The credit card industry is highly competitive, with a few prominent players dominating the market. American Express competes with other major credit card companies, such as Visa and Mastercard and banks that issue private-label credit cards. The industry has been growing steadily, with global credit card transactions expected to reach $8.8 trillion by 2025. However, the industry faces several challenges, including increasing regulatory scrutiny and the threat of disruption from fintech startups. American Express has several growth opportunities, including expanding its presence in international markets and developing new partnerships with technology companies. The company has made significant progress in these areas, with global revenue growth from 2016 to 2022. American Express has also partnered with companies such as Uber, Marriott and Delta Airlines to offer unique benefits to its cardholders. Additionally, the company has been investing in its digital capabilities by launching its digital wallet and mobile app. Despite its stable financial performance and growth opportunities, American Express faces several risks and challenges. The company's high-end products and services may be vulnerable to changes in consumer preferences, and the company may need help to appeal to younger generations who prefer debit cards and mobile payments. Additionally, American Express is subject to increasing regulatory scrutiny, with regulators monitoring the company's anti-money laundering practices and compliance with consumer protection laws. The company's debt levels and dependence on the global economy also pose risks, as a recession or economic downturn could impact its profitability. Another major challenge for American Express is the increasing competition from fintech startups, disrupting the traditional credit card industry by offering innovative products and services. These startups are often more agile and adaptable than established companies like American Express and may be able to offer more attractive rewards and lower fees to customers. To stay competitive, American Express must continue to innovate and develop new products and services that cater to changing customer preferences. Duke Energy Corporation, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a leading American electric power and natural gas holding company. With a rich history dating back to its founding in 1904 by James Buchanan Duke and Benjamin Newton Duke, Duke Energy has become a prominent player in the energy industry. The company operates in multiple states and serves millions of customers, providing essential energy solutions for their homes and businesses. Duke Energy's mission is to power customers' lives by delivering safe, reliable, sustainable energy while embracing innovation and environmental stewardship. Duke Energy operates in three primary segments: Electric Utilities and Infrastructure, Gas Utilities and Infrastructure, and Commercial Renewables. The Electric Utilities and Infrastructure segment generates, transmits, distributes, and sells electricity to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. The Gas Utilities and Infrastructure segment distributes natural gas to customers in the Midwest, the Carolinas, and parts of the Southeast. The Commercial Renewables segment focuses on developing, owning, and operating wind and solar renewable generation projects across the United States. With a customer-centric approach, Duke Energy serves diverse customers, including households, small businesses, large industrial facilities, and government entities. The company's commitment to providing reliable energy solutions has earned it a loyal customer base and a reputation for excellence in the industry. Duke Energy is led by a highly experienced and accomplished management team that drives the company's strategic vision and operational excellence. At the organization's helm is Ms. Lynn J. Good, who serves as Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer. Ms. Good has been with Duke Energy since 2003 and has been crucial in guiding the company's growth and transformation. She brings extensive knowledge of the energy sector and a strong focus on sustainability and customer satisfaction. Duke Energy has consistently demonstrated strong financial performance, driven by its operational efficiency and focus on delivering value to shareholders. The company has a strong net profit margin of over 10%. Duke Energy's commitment to financial stability is evident through its disciplined approach to managing debt. This prudent financial management allows the company to invest in infrastructure, technology, and renewable energy projects to meet the evolving needs of its customers. Duke Energy operates in the electric power and natural gas industry, supporting economic activities and daily life. As the industry evolves, there are several trends and challenges that Duke Energy and its peers must navigate. The transition toward cleaner energy sources and reducing carbon emissions have become the primary focus of the energy sector. Duke Energy has recognized the importance of sustainability and has been actively working towards reducing its environmental footprint. The company has set ambitious goals to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and to increase its renewable energy capacity. By investing in wind and solar projects and retiring older, less efficient coal-fired power plants, Duke Energy aims to align with evolving environmental regulations and customer expectations. The industry also faces regulatory and political factors influencing operations and profitability. Changes in energy policies, tax regulations, and environmental standards can impact production costs and the competitive landscape. Duke Energy actively engages with regulatory bodies and policymakers to ensure its interests are represented and to contribute to shaping a sustainable energy future. Competitive positioning is crucial in the energy industry, and Duke Energy has established itself as a key player. The company's extensive infrastructure, reliable service, and strong customer relationships give it a competitive advantage. Furthermore, Duke Energy's commitment to innovation and exploring new technologies positions it well to capitalize on emerging opportunities and maintain its market leadership. Duke Energy is well-positioned to capitalize on growth opportunities within the energy industry. One significant avenue for expansion is the development of renewable energy projects. As the demand for clean energy rises, Duke Energy has actively invested in wind and solar projects, expanding its commercial renewables segment. By leveraging its expertise and resources, the company aims to increase its renewable energy capacity and contribute to a sustainable future. Another growth opportunity lies in the modernization of infrastructure and grid systems. Duke Energy is committed to upgrading its power delivery systems, improving reliability, and incorporating advanced technologies. The company aims to enhance efficiency and provide customers with more reliable and resilient energy services by investing in smart grids, energy storage solutions, and digital infrastructure. While Duke Energy has demonstrated resilience and adaptability, risks and challenges in the industry should be considered when evaluating the company's future prospects and stock performance. One of the significant challenges Duke Energy faces is the evolving regulatory landscape. The energy industry is subject to various local, state, and federal regulations. Regulation changes can impact Duke Energy's operations, including the cost of compliance and the ability to pursue specific projects. Additionally, regulatory decisions related to rate structures and pricing can influence the company's revenue and profitability. Another risk is the volatility of energy prices. Duke Energy's financial performance is influenced by the cost of fuel and energy sources used in its operations. Fluctuations in commodity prices, such as natural gas and coal, can impact the company's expenses and margins. Moreover, changes in supply and demand dynamics or geopolitical events can lead to price volatility, affecting Duke Energy's financial results. Environmental factors are also significant considerations for Duke Energy. Transitioning to cleaner energy sources and reducing carbon emissions requires substantial investments in renewable energy infrastructure. While Duke Energy has been actively investing in renewables, there are risks associated with project development, such as construction delays, cost overruns, and uncertain regulatory support. Customer preferences and demand patterns present both opportunities and challenges for Duke Energy. As consumers become more conscious of environmental sustainability, there is a growing demand for renewable energy solutions. However, customers also seek greater control over their energy consumption, potentially leading to a decline in overall electricity demand. Duke Energy must adapt to changing customer needs and preferences while ensuring a reliable and efficient energy supply. Operational risks, including equipment failures, natural disasters, and cybersecurity threats, are inherent in the energy industry. Duke Energy operates an extensive infrastructure, and any disruptions or incidents can impact its operations, financial performance, and reputation. The company has implemented risk management strategies and invests in infrastructure resilience to mitigate these risks, but they remain potential challenges. Dominion Energy, Inc. produces and distributes energy in the United States. It operates through four segments: Dominion Energy Virginia, Gas Distribution, Dominion Energy South Carolina, and Contracted Assets. The Dominion Energy Virginia segment generates, transmits, and distributes regulated electricity to approximately 2.7 million residential, commercial, industrial, and governmental customers in Virginia and North Carolina. The Gas Distribution segment is involved in the regulated natural gas sales, transportation, gathering, storage, and distribution operations in Ohio, North Carolina, Utah, southwestern Wyoming, and southeastern Idaho that serve approximately 3.0 million residential, commercial and industrial customers. It also has nonregulated renewable natural gas facilities in operation. The Dominion Energy South Carolina segment generates, transmits, and distributes electricity to approximately 782,000 customers in the central, southern, and southwestern portions of South Carolina; and distributes natural gas to approximately 435,000 residential, commercial, and industrial customers in South Carolina. The Contracted Assets segment is involved in the nonregulated long-term contracted renewable electric generation and solar generation facility development operations; and gas transportation, LNG import, and storage operations, as well as in the liquefaction facility. As of December 31, 2022, the company's portfolio of assets included approximately 31.0 gigawatt of electric generating capacity; 10,600 miles of electric transmission lines; 78,500 miles of electric distribution lines; and 93,500 miles of gas distribution mains and related service facilities. The company was formerly known as Dominion Resources, Inc. Dominion Energy, Inc. was incorporated in 1983 and is headquartered in Richmond, Virginia. Shri Ganesha, the revered Hindu deity known as the Remover of Obstacles and the God of Beginnings, holds a special place in the hearts of millions worldwide. While traditionally worshiped in India, the veneration of Lord Ganesha has transcended geographical boundaries and cultural barriers. Here is an exploration of the global presence of Shri Ganesha, the various forms in which he is worshiped, the names he is known by in different countries, and the beliefs associated with him beyond India's borders. Worship of Shri Ganesha Around the World **1. ** Nepal: As a neighboring country to India with a significant Hindu population, Nepal also reveres Shri Ganesha. He is often worshiped during festivals, and temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha can be found in various parts of Nepal. **2. ** Sri Lanka: In Sri Lanka, especially among the Tamil Hindu community, Lord Ganesha is a widely worshiped deity. He is believed to bring good fortune and remove obstacles, making his presence prominent in homes and temples. **3. ** Thailand: In Thailand, Lord Ganesha is known as Phra Phikanet. While the majority of the population practices Buddhism, Ganesha is revered as a deity who can help with overcoming challenges, and his image can be found in many Thai households. **4. ** Cambodia: In Cambodia, Ganesha is known as Vinayaka. He is worshiped primarily by the Cham people, an ethnic group with Hindu roots. Temples dedicated to Lord Vinayaka can be seen in certain regions of Cambodia. **5. ** Indonesia: Shri Ganesha's presence in Indonesia is particularly noteworthy. Despite being a predominantly Muslim country, Indonesia has a deep-rooted history of Hinduism and Buddhism. Lord Ganesha, known as "Ganesha" or "Ganesh," is recognized and respected by various communities. His image even appears on the Indonesian currency, the Rupiah, as a symbol of protection and prosperity. **6. ** Bhutan: In Bhutan, a country steeped in Buddhist traditions, Lord Ganesha is revered as a guardian deity who can remove obstacles and grant success. His image can be found in homes and places of worship. **7. ** Mauritius: With a significant Hindu population, Mauritius celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi with great enthusiasm. Lord Ganesha is seen as a protector of the island and is worshiped with fervor during this festival. Names and Beliefs About Shri Ganesha Abroad While the core beliefs about Lord Ganesha remain consistent worldwide, his name may vary in different countries and regions. In Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, his name is similar to "Ganesha." In Cambodia, he is referred to as "Vinayaka," and in Bhutan, he is known as "Ganesh." The beliefs associated with Shri Ganesha are also relatively consistent across these countries. He is revered as the deity who removes obstacles, brings good fortune, and is a symbol of wisdom and intelligence. Lord Ganesha is often invoked at the beginning of important endeavors, ceremonies, and festivals to seek his blessings for a smooth and successful outcome. Lord Ganesha on Indonesian Currency The presence of Shri Ganesha on the Indonesian Rupiah serves as a testament to the country's cultural diversity and religious tolerance. While Indonesia is the largest Muslim-majority country in the world, it also recognizes and respects its Hindu and Buddhist heritage. The inclusion of Lord Ganesha's image on currency notes symbolizes protection, prosperity, and the coexistence of different religious and cultural traditions within the nation. The worship of Shri Ganesha extends far beyond the borders of India. Lord Ganesha's universal appeal as the God of Beginnings and the Remover of Obstacles has led to his veneration in various forms and under different names in countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Cambodia, Bhutan, Mauritius, and notably, Indonesia. His presence abroad is a testament to the enduring significance and reverence for this beloved deity across the world. Pew Survey Reveals Religion's Key Role in Shaping National Identity in Southeast Asia What is the distance from earth to heaven? Do you know Don't make a fool of yourself! Understand the traditions of the nations you visit iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares Russell 1000 Growth Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment returns that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Russell 1000 Growth Index (the Index). The Index measures the performance of equity securities of Russell 1000 index issuers with relatively higher price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth. The index represents approximately 50% of the total market capitalization of the Russell 1000 Index. The Index is a subset of the Russell 1000 Index. The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. BlackRock Fund Advisors (BFA) serves as the investment adviser to the Fund. Phillips 66 operates as an energy manufacturing and logistics company in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Midstream, Chemicals, Refining, and Marketing and Specialties (M&S). The Midstream segment transports crude oil and other feedstocks; delivers refined petroleum products to market; provides terminaling and storage services for crude oil and refined petroleum products; transports, stores, fractionates, exports, and markets natural gas liquids; provides other fee-based processing services; and gathers, processes, transports, and markets natural gas. The Chemicals segment produces and markets ethylene and other olefin products; aromatics and styrenics products, such as benzene, cyclohexane, styrene, and polystyrene; and various specialty chemical products, including organosulfur chemicals, solvents, catalysts, and chemicals used in drilling and mining. The Refining segment refines crude oil and other feedstocks into petroleum products, such as gasolines, distillates, aviation, and renewable. The M&S segment purchases for resale and markets refined petroleum products, including gasolines, distillates, and aviation fuels. This segment also manufactures and markets specialty products, such as base oils and lubricants. The company was founded in 1875 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas. Accenture plc is a global professional services company that operates in various industries worldwide. With a mission to provide exceptional strategy and consulting, interactive technology, and operation services, Accenture has established itself as a leader in the professional services sector. The company's headquarters are located in Dublin, Ireland. Accenture offers its diverse client base a wide range of products and services. Its application services cover areas such as agile transformation, DevOps, software and quality engineering, data management, and intelligent automation. The company also provides strategy and consulting services, focusing on data and analytics, metaverse, sustainability, and HR transformation. Accenture's technology services encompass cloud infrastructure management, AI, and technology consulting. Additionally, the company offers engineering and R&D digitization, business process outsourcing, and various services related to technology innovation. Accenture is led by a highly experienced and accomplished management team. Julie T. Spellman Sweet serves as the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Accenture, bringing her expertise in driving growth and delivering strategic value to clients. Kathleen R. McClure is the Chief Financial Officer overseeing the company's financial operations. Gianfranco Casati serves as the Executive Chairman of Growth Markets, and Jean-Marc Ollagnier leads as the Chief Executive Officer of Europe. James O. Etheredge holds the position of Chief Executive Officer of North America. These executives bring a wealth of knowledge and industry experience to their respective roles, contributing to Accenture's success. Accenture has consistently delivered strong financial performance over the years. The company has reported substantial revenue, impressive earnings, and healthy profit margins. Accenture's financial performance reflects its ability to generate significant income and maintain a strong market position. Furthermore, the company has effectively managed its debt levels, ensuring financial stability and flexibility. Accenture's valuation metrics, such as price-to-earnings and price-to-book ratio, are generally favorable compared to industry peers. The company's strong financial performance, market leadership, and growth potential contribute to its favorable valuation. Investors recognize the company's value and prospects, which may be reflected in the stock's performance. Accenture operates in the broader professional services industry, which is characterized by intense competition and evolving trends. The industry's landscape is constantly changing due to technological advancements, regulatory changes, and shifts in client demands. Accenture competes with other major professional services firms, each vying for market share and differentiation. Its strong reputation, global reach, and comprehensive service offerings give it a competitive advantage. Moreover, Accenture's ability to leverage emerging technologies and provide innovative solutions positions it well in the industry. Accenture has numerous growth opportunities in various areas. The company can leverage its expertise in emerging technologies such as AI, data analytics, and automation to drive innovation and expand its service offerings. Additionally, Accenture can explore new markets, capitalize on digital transformation initiatives and pursue strategic acquisitions to enhance its capabilities. The company's strong relationships with key customers and ability to provide tailored solutions enable it to seize growth opportunities effectively. While Accenture has demonstrated resilience and adaptability, it faces certain risks and challenges. Changes in consumer preferences, technological disruptions, and evolving regulatory landscapes pose potential dangers to Accenture's business. Consumer preferences can shift rapidly, requiring the company to stay agile and continuously innovate to meet changing demands. Moreover, technological disruptions, such as advancements in artificial intelligence or automation, can impact the traditional service offerings of professional services firms. Accenture must stay at the forefront of emerging technologies and adapt its services to remain relevant and competitive. Additionally, regulatory changes can introduce uncertainties and compliance challenges. As governments worldwide implement new regulations and policies, Accenture must navigate the evolving landscape to ensure compliance while providing valuable services to clients. Close monitoring of regulatory developments and proactive engagement with relevant stakeholders is essential for the company to mitigate potential risks. Despite these challenges, Accenture's robust risk management strategies and ability to anticipate and respond to market dynamics position it well to address potential risks. The company's focus on innovation, investment in talent development, and strategic partnerships contribute to its ability to overcome challenges and sustain its growth trajectory. During the National Day holiday (October 1-7) in 2022, Home Coming, a hit action-thriller, touched the hearts of countless Chinese viewers. The film was based on the Chinese embassy's 2011 evacuation of more than 30,000 Chinese nationals from Libya, as unrest unfolded in that country. Liu Shiying, now deputy-general-manager of the Second Section of the Cabin Service Department of China Eastern Airlines, understood how eagerly the Chinese wanted to return home. In February 2011, Liu and her colleagues helped the Chinese Embassy in Egypt evacuate Chinese nationals from the then-turbulent Egypt. During the past 16 years, Liu has participated in many major aviation-related missions. In addition to helping the Chinese Embassy in Egypt evacuate Chinese nationals from the then-turbulent Egypt (in February 2011), she participated in China's airlifting of aid (transporting rescue workers, food, medicine and other materials) to the Republic of Haiti after a magnitude-7.3 earthquake razed large regions of the country (January 2010). In February 2022, Liu and her colleagues escorted more than 100 Chinese tourists, who were stranded in Singapore due to the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, during their return home (in Wuhan, capital of central China's Hubei Province). The crew also transported many medical workers, from various regions of the country, to Wuhan, to help combat the disease. Liu has also played an important role in ensuring the safety of other countries' State leaders, during their flights to Shanghai to attend the Fifth China International Import Expo, hosted by China's Ministry of Commerce and Shanghai Municipal People's Government, in November 2022. While fulfilling her tasks, Liu has remained committed to CPC's original aspiration always putting the people first, because nothing in the world is more precious than people's lives. Given her outstanding achievements, she has received many titles, including being named a Model Worker in Shanghai, and being elected a delegate to the 20th CPC National Congress (held in Beijing in October 2022). Mother Country Is People's Strongest Backing It has been 12 years, but Liu clearly remembers the details of events that happened during the two days when she and her colleagues were dispatched to Egypt, to help the Chinese Embassy evacuate Chinese nationals from the then-turbulent country. It took the crew more than 10 hours to fly from Shanghai to Hurghada (a city in Egypt), where they picked up more than 50 people. As they were landing at Cairo (capital of Egypt)'s airport, they heard the sound of gunfire in the distance. "When it was time for the plane to take off, only a few Chinese nationals had arrived at the airport. We waited there for seven hours, until the embassy staff brought more Chinese to the airport," recalls Liu. Although they looked worn out, many of the Chinese smiled as they ran to the plane. They were aware they would arrive home, safe and sound, after a long journey. Liu could feel how tense they were, especially as some of the passengers on the plane shared their experiences in Egypt. Finally feeling a sense of relief, the passengers drifted off to sleep. Fearing they might disturb the passengers' sweet dreams, the crew members tiptoed through the cabin. The plane entered China's airspace at midnight of the first day of Chinese New Year (February 3, 2011). When the captain announced "Welcome Home," all of the passengers cheered, and they sang China's national anthem. At that moment, Liu burst into tears. "I was aware that our mother country is our strongest backing," recalls Liu. Despite the passage of time, she is excited when she recalls her experiences during those two days. Through her experiences, Liu has gained a better understanding of the creed of workers with China's civil aviation organizations: "Perhaps we cannot send you to every part of the world, but as long as our country needs, we will go to any part of the world to pick you up and bring you home." As she realizes the value of her work, Liu takes pride in being a flight attendant. Lofty Ideal In 2007, Liu began working at China Eastern Airlines, shortly after she received a master's degree, in laws, from East China University of Political Science and Law (in Shanghai). Before she began working, she imagined she would travel around the world in her beautiful work uniform. However, things turned out to be quite different. In addition to coping with jet lag, she had to complete various training programs, provided by the airline, to help new employees improve their professional skills. Several months after she began working as a flight attendant, a flight Liu was working was delayed five hours due to a thunderstorm. She had a hard time comforting the passengers, who grew impatient while waiting at the airport. When the plane finally took off, several passengers told Liu, "Thank you for your hard work." At that moment, she felt that all of her efforts were worthwhile. During the past several years, Liu has shared her work experiences with many new employees. "We flight attendants should play important roles in linking passengers with the outside world. Putting ourselves in their shoes, we should explain the situation to our passengers when something unexpected (such as flight delay and/or aircraft turbulence) happens. That might help the passengers dispel worries and/or anxieties," Liu has been quoted as saying. Numerous passengers have offered positive comments to Liu (over the years), who has provided thoughtful, considerate services to the passengers. "My heart is always filled with delight during a flight," says Liu. "To me, a passenger's smile and/or an approving look in his/her eyes are invaluable treasure." As a "star" mentor with Li Wenli Air Service Innovation Studio (under the airline), Liu during the past few years has devoted much effort to developing air-service products, optimizing the customer-service process and cultivating outstanding new workers. Liu has also offered courses to flight attendants, to help them improve their ability to better protect the safety of passengers. Strengthening Party Building Many of the organizations under the Civil Aviation Administration of China have a hard time organizing activities aimed at strengthening Party building, as the organizations find it difficult to arrange for their employees to participate in the activities at the designated time and place. It is especially so for China Eastern Airlines, which has a complex global airline network. In April 2016, the airline held a ceremony to initiate the Blue Sky Party Group Project. Liu was the hostess during the ceremony. The airline established Party groups, each of which is composed of Party members from a flight crew. When they organize various activities to strengthen Party building, the groups take their members' work schedules into consideration. A short time after the airline initiated the project, Liu discovered a problem that affected the project's implementation. As the members of each flight crew are chosen from thousands of flight attendants in the airline's Cabin Service Department, some of the members are not familiar with each other. Liu brainstormed how to solve the problem. Her idea: Arranging for crews' members to visit revolutionary sites while taking a break during flights to regions with "red" tourist attractions. As the members gradually got to know each other during the visits, they could communicate with each other more easily during activities to strengthen Party building. In February 2020, shortly after the outbreak of novel coronavirus disease, the Civil Aviation Administration of China arranged for China Eastern Airlines to dispatch a plane to escort Chinese tourists, who were stranded in Singapore due to the pandemic, during their return home (in Wuhan). Liu, then an 18-year member of the Party, took the lead (within the airline) in signing up to work as one of the flight attendants on the plane. In addition to organizing workers with the airline to study the Party's historical development, Liu in recent years has provided many lectures to workers, to help them better understand laws and regulations. Since the Civil Code of the People's Republic of China was promulgated in May 2020, Liu has provided many lectures, to help the workers increase their legal knowledge about marriage, family and property inheritance. She has also become many workers' "legal advisor," who helps, for free, the workers solve legal problems. Liu takes delight in using her legal knowledge to help her colleagues solve difficulties in their lives. When asked to name her most favorite country, Liu replies, "I've been to so many places around the world. So, I can say one thing for sure, China is the best nation in the world." Through the development of China's civil aviation industry during the past decade, Liu has been able to catch a glimpse into the country's rapid economic development. "Over the years, both aviation software and hardware have been constantly improved. For example, many electronic and/or intelligent facilities have been used to improve aviation services. Also, there has been a substantial increase in the numbers of passengers, flight routes and fleets ... All this has shown the rapid development of the national civil aviation industry, which has provided strong support for China, as it strives to build itself into a country with strong transportation network," she has been quoted as saying. She adds she will continue helping her crew members improve their ability to provide quality services to passengers, so the crew can make greater contributions as they help to build China into a country with a strong transportation network. Photos Supplied by Interviewee (Women of China English Monthly August 2023 issue) September 18, 2016, is a date etched into the collective memory of India as a day of tragedy and loss. On this fateful day, four militants from the Pakistan-based terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammed carried out a brazen attack on an Indian Army brigade headquarters located near the town of Uri in the disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir. The attack resulted in the loss of 19 brave Indian soldiers, with several others sustaining injuries. The 2016 Uri attack was a significant event in the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan, raising questions about regional security and the continuing struggle for peace in the region. The Uri Attack The Uri attack unfolded in the early hours of September 18, 2016, when a group of heavily armed militants stormed the Indian Army's 12th Brigade headquarters in Uri, a town situated close to the Line of Control (LoC), which serves as the de facto border between India and Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir. The attackers infiltrated the heavily guarded perimeter and launched a coordinated assault on the military camp. The terrorists used a combination of small arms fire, grenades, and incendiary materials, which resulted in a devastating fire that engulfed several tents housing the soldiers. The initial surprise attack left the soldiers with little time to react, leading to a significant loss of life. Loss of Lives and Injuries The Uri attack proved to be one of the deadliest attacks on the Indian Army in recent history. In total, 19 Indian soldiers lost their lives during the attack, while between 19 and 30 others sustained injuries of varying degrees of severity. The injured were immediately evacuated to nearby medical facilities for treatment. The loss of these brave soldiers sent shockwaves throughout India and prompted a strong and emotional response from the nation. The Uri attack was not just an attack on a military base; it was an attack on the sovereignty and security of India, evoking a profound sense of outrage and grief among its citizens. International Outcry The Uri attack garnered international attention and condemnation. Countries from around the world expressed their solidarity with India and condemned the act of terrorism. The United States, Russia, France, and many other nations offered their condolences and support, emphasizing the need to combat terrorism globally. India's Response In the aftermath of the Uri attack, India faced immense pressure to respond decisively. The Indian government took several steps to address the situation. Diplomatically, India sought to isolate Pakistan on the global stage, alleging that the attackers had links to Pakistani-based terrorist organizations and demanding that Pakistan take action against them. Militarily, the Indian Army carried out surgical strikes on terrorist launch pads across the Line of Control on September 29, 2016. These targeted operations were aimed at preemptively neutralizing terrorists who were planning to infiltrate into India. The surgical strikes were seen as a robust response to the Uri attack and sent a clear message that India would not tolerate cross-border terrorism. Pakistan's Denial Pakistan, however, denied any involvement in the Uri attack and rejected India's claims about the identity of the attackers. Pakistan's government insisted that it was not responsible for the actions of non-state actors and called for a joint investigation into the incident. This response further strained the already tense relationship between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. The 2016 Uri attack remains a dark chapter in the history of the India-Pakistan conflict. It not only resulted in the loss of precious lives but also escalated tensions in the region. The attack underscored the urgent need for both nations to find a peaceful resolution to their long-standing disputes and to cooperate in the fight against terrorism. As India remembers the sacrifice of the brave soldiers who lost their lives in the Uri attack, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and complexities in the region. The quest for lasting peace and stability in Jammu and Kashmir continues, and the Uri attack serves as a stark reminder of the human toll of unresolved conflicts. Remembering the 2008 Delhi Serial Blasts A Dark Chapter in India's History This Day in History: The 37th US President Gerald Ford's Controversial Pardon of Richard Nixon Multiple teens escaped from the Abraxas Academy in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, after a riot on Sunday, police said. Articles Sorry, there are no recent results for popular articles. Los Angeles officials to offer $250,000 reward for information on death of sheriffs deputy shot in his patrol car At a meeting held in Moscow on May 15, more than 75 people commemorated what would have been the 65th birthday of the Russian Marxist historian and sociologist, Vadim Z. Rogovin. Among those attending the gathering were surviving children of Russian Left Oppositionists murdered by the Stalinist regime, scholars who worked with Vadim at the Institute of Sociology in Moscow, the representatives of several socialist tendencies in Russia and many friends. The meeting was organized by Galina Rogovina, Vadims wife. David North, editorial board chairman of the World Socialist Web Site, was invited by Galina Rogovina to deliver the principal address on the significance of Vadims life and work. His remarks are reprinted below. Vadim Z. Rogovin at the celebration of his 60th birthday at the Institute of Sociology of the Russian Academy of Sciences in Moscow, May 12, 1997. Today we meet to commemorate what would have been Vadim Rogovins 65th birthday and to celebrate the publication of the seventh and final volume of his magnificent historical cycle: Was there an Alternative to Stalinism?, a history of the political struggle against the betrayal of the October Revolution, from the founding of the Left Opposition in 1923 to the assassination of Leon Trotsky in 1940. There is a profound and moving symbolism in the combination of these events. In observing the 65th anniversary of his birth, we celebrate Vadims life. In welcoming the publication of the seventh volume of his History, we honor Vadims work. Every human life is both finite and infinite. It is finite in its individuality and physical mortality. But it is infinite both as an element of mans collective social being and, on that basis, to the extent that it gives conscious expression to the universal in human experience and thereby transcends the boundaries of finite existence. There are those who, to use the words of Trotsky, carry on their shoulders a particle of the fate of mankind. In such people, this precious element of infinite transcendence finds exceptionally intense expression. Their contribution to mankinds future lives on after them. The legacy of their lives enters into the consciousness of ensuing generations and becomes the treasured and collective inheritance of all humanity. Such a life was that of Vadim Zakharovich Rogovin. Wherein lay the greatness of Vadim Rogovin? That question can be answered only by placing his life in the context of the times in which he livedespecially, in the context of the last decade of his life, the period of Vadims greatest intellectual creativity. Much has happened in the former Soviet Union during the past 15 years. Today, it is not my intention to enter into an argument over the nature of the changes in the social and economic structure of post-Soviet society. There are among us, I am sure, many different opinions as to the nature and consequences of these changes. It was Vadims view, which corresponds to that of the international Trotskyist movement, that the protracted crisis of the Soviet Stalinist regime was resolved in the late 1980s and 1990s in a manner that was politically reactionary and socially regressive. David North speaking in Moscow in May 2002 at a commemoration of Vadim Rogovin's life But there is one particularly notable feature of the intellectual environment of the last 15 years to which I feel obliged to call attention. Notwithstanding all that has happened since the mid-1980s, there has not emerged from the upheavals of Soviet and post-Soviet society a single political figure who commands international respect, let alone admiration. To the extent that mankind is searching for new and promising ideas, it occurs to no one to look for them in post-Soviet Russia. Virtually all those who have achieved prominence or notoriety have been exposed as mediocrities and rank scoundrels. Who, today, could speak of the greatness of Gorbachev, Yeltsin, Lebed, Sobchak (some of these names are probably not even remembered) and, excuse me, the present occupant of the Kremlin, without causing his audience to burst out laughing? All of these people were, or are, unconscious instruments of historical and social processes that they neither foresaw nor understood. I should add that blindness and mediocrity is not an affliction of political life alone. Perhaps I am poorly informed, but I believe that one can say without serious contradiction that the cultural life of Russia is as impoverished as its economy. Has there been produced during the past decade a single major novel, an important poem, a significant musical composition or even a cinematic work that is truly worthy of international attention? Against the background of this intellectual and cultural wasteland, the work of Vadim Rogovin stands out all the more as a monumental achievement. The seven volumes of Vadims history will endure as a major contribution to not only Russian but also world literature. Great history, wrote E. H. Carr is written precisely when the historians vision of the past is illumined by insights into problems of the present. Herein lies the key to understanding the significance of Vadims works. It was Vadims preoccupation with the problems of his own time and his concern for mankinds future that compelled him to study, analyze and explain the past. Vadims ferocious preoccupation with the problem of historical truth was not that of a simple moralist. Rather, it derived from a profound insight into the great problem of the epoch in which he livedthat the universal loss of social perspective, the decline of class consciousness, the all-pervasive political bewilderment and stupefaction of public opinion are the social price paid for decades of Stalinisms lies and falsifications. The destruction of historical consciousness has created a confused and disoriented people, unable to understand the nature of the social and political problems they confront and to discover a progressive solution to the crisis of their society. What was the task that Vadim set for himself during the last decade of his life? To refute the gross falsification of Trotskys role in Soviet history; to counter the lie that Stalinism was the necessary and organic product of Marxism and the October Revolution; to answer the claim that there existed no alternative to Stalinism in the USSR. In discussion and in collaboration with the International Committee of the Fourth International, Vadim developed his interpretation of the Stalinist purges of the 1930s as a form of political genocide directed against the representatives of Marxist politics and culture in the Soviet working class and intelligentsia. Vadim interpreted the terror of the 1930s as a form of civil war, directed by Stalin and his henchmen (Molotov, Kaganovich, Voroshilov, Beria, Yezhov, Mikoyan and others) against a suppressed but still powerful socialist opposition whose greatest voice was that of Lev Davidovich Trotsky. Underlying this historical analysis was a concept of philosophical profundity. Vadim insisted that the motive force that determined the murderous character of the Stalinist regime was the striving for social privilegethe achievement of material benefits for the few at the expense of the many. The social policy that found expression in the crimes of Stalin was the promotion and defense, by the bureaucracy that he led, of social inequality. The fundamental contrast between Bolshevism and Stalinism was precisely this: the historical objective of the former was the achievement of social equality; the goal of the latter was the protection of individual privilege. As Vadim wrote, Stalins greed for material things, his craving for limitless luxury in his everyday life were passed on to his descendents up to and including Gorbachev, all of whom, unlike the Bolshevik Old Guard, were unwilling to share physical difficulties and privations with the people. At the core of Vadims philosophy of history was an unshakable insistence on the ontological validity of objective truth. The recognition of truth as the correspondence of subjective thought with objective properties and processes of social being is the essential basis of scientific historical consciousness. This axiom must serve not only as the foundation for the study of the history of the USSR. At issue here is a truly international problem: that of coming to grips with the historical experience and lessons of the 20th century as a whole. It is not only in Russia that this problem demands attention. In my references to the blighted state of post-Soviet society, I did not mean to suggest that Americans and Europeans are enjoying a flowering of intellectual creativity. The situation beyond the borders of Russia is no less pathetic. In different forms and with varying degrees of intensity, one encounters throughout the world the same disorientation, confusion and ignorance. As in Russia, the source of this disorientation is the failure to assimilate and theoretically comprehend the historical events and experiences out of which the present emerged. And, how can the experience of the past be assimilated and comprehended when even the factual components of historyespecially those related to the October Revolution and its aftermathare concealed and falsified? That is why the work of Vadim Rogovin is of world significance and has attracted an international audience. There are periods of history when revolutionary social upheavals shatter old barriers and clear a path for great advances in every sphere of human culture. In the wake of such upheavals, there emerge the geniuses who act as the spokesmen of the new age. They amplify all the progressive impulses of their time and endow them with the most profound, universal and timeless form. But there are other, more difficult and painful periods of history, when creative genius must labor in isolation and in opposition. The exceptional figures of such an epoch are not men and women of their times, but men and women against their times. In this sense, there is a parallel between the life of Trotsky and the life of Rogovin. Had Trotsky died in 1923, he would have certainly lived on in history as one of the major figures of the ascendant Russian Revolution. But it was what Trotsky achieved during the last 17 years of his life, between 1923 and 1940his unyielding struggle against the Stalinist betrayal of world socialismthat insured his historical immortality as the greatest and most important revolutionary thinker and leader of the 20th, and perhaps even of the 21st, century. Vadims greatness, like that of Trotsky, manifested itself in political, intellectual and moral oppositionin his courageous, principled and indefatigable devotion to historical truth in an environment made rotten by decades of lies, cynicism, hypocrisy and cowardice. In opposition to the times in which he lived, Vadim Rogovin produced seven volumes that will live in world literature as a moral and intellectual milestone in mankinds reclaiming of its revolutionary heritage. The seventh volume of Vadims book is entitled, The End is the Beginning. This title might also serve as a fitting epitaph for Vadim himself. Only his physical being left us on September 18, 1998. That which was immortal in Vadims life and work lives with us and gains in strength from day to day. Vadim Zakharovich Rogovin, the greatest Soviet and Russian Marxist sociologist and historian of the second half of the twentieth century, died of cancer twenty years ago today, on September 18, 1998. He was 61 years old. Rogovins greatest work was accomplished in the aftermath of the dissolution of the USSR. Beginning in 1992, he began intensive work on what would become a seven-volume history of the revolutionary Marxist opposition, led by Leon Trotsky, to the Stalinist degeneration of the USSR. Covering the years from 1923 to 1940, Rogovins Was There an Alternative? is an unsurpassed work of historical scholarship, indispensable for an understanding of the Stalinist regime and the deep-rooted socialist opposition to its betrayal of the principles and program of the October Revolution. Rogovin documented the immense popularity of Trotsky, even after his exile from the Soviet Union in 1929, and established that the principal purpose of Stalins bloody terror in the 1930s was the eradication of Trotskys political influence. Prior to the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, Rogovin had been working for many years, albeit under very difficult circumstances, on a sociological analysis of Stalinism. For much of his career, he was a scholar at the Institute of Sociology in Moscow. He entered the discipline of sociology out of a desire to find a setting in which he could study and write about the problem of social stratification in Soviet society. His research focused on inequalities in lifestyles and consumption, the social and political roots of the USSRs problems with labor productivity, and the meaning of social justice. Rogovins contributions to sociology, which were published widely in major journals and press outlets, consisted of such titles as, Justice as a Social-Philosophical and Socio-Economic Category (1982), The Human Factor and the Lessons of the Past (1984), and On Social Benefits and Privileges (1989). His open commitment to the defense of equality won him widespread popularity, a fact widely acknowledged in the USSR at the time and even noted by Western scholars. We publish here two tributes to Vadim Rogovin delivered by David North, chairman of the International Editorial Board of the World Socialist Web Site, who worked closely with the great Marxist historian and sociologist between 1992 and 1998. The first was delivered in Moscow in May 1997, on the occasion of Rogovins sixtieth birthday. The second was delivered in May 2002, also in Moscow, at a memorial meeting marking what would have been Rogovins sixty-fifth birthday. _____________________________________________________________ Greetings to Vadim Rogovin, May 12 , 1997 It is both a great honor and great pleasure to bring the greetings of the International Committee of the Fourth International and those of the Socialist Equality Party in the United States to Vadim Rogovin on the occasion of his sixtieth birthday. That comrades and friends of Vadim have come to Moscow from all over the world on this occasion, demonstrates the immense value that is placed upon his work and life by an international audience of workers, students, and intellectuals who have been inspired and moved by his struggle for historical truth. I understand that this tribute has been organized by those colleagues and friends of Vadim Rogovin who have worked with him for many years. I am sure that those of you who have had the opportunity and good fortune to work with Vadim appreciate the extraordinary power of his intellect, the astonishing breadth of his knowledge, his seemingly inexhaustible capacity for mental labor, the amazing fluency of his thought, speech and writing, and, even more striking, his physical and moral courage in the face of adversity, the nobility of his character and goodness of his heart. There is not a single person here todayeven if there is someone here who perhaps disagrees with certain elements of his work and viewswho would deny that Vadim Rogovin is an exceptional human being. But I cannot help but wonder whether the members of this famous and prestigious institute fully appreciate the significance of the life that we are honoring today. In saying this, I intend no disrespect whatsoever to the members of this institute, many of whom, I understand, are among Vadims closest friends. There is a saying with which you are certainly familiar: a prophet is without honor in his own country. This phrase comes to mind as one considers the life-work of Vadim Rogovin, not only as a commentary on the difficulty, complexity, and paradoxes of his position in the intellectual and political life of contemporary Russia, but also because it encapsulates the tragedy of the former Soviet Union and the society that has emerged from its collapse. For, despite all the convulsive changes that have occurred here over the last decade, one thing has not changed: this remains a country which still cannot acknowledge, let alone pay tribute to, the life-work and thoughts of one of the greatest political and intellectual figures of its history, Lev Davidovitch Trotsky. Vadim Rogovin is a prophet of historical truth. And like all prophets, he challenges and confronts the society in which he lives with difficult questions that it would prefer to evade or ignore. The great historical question that Vadim has placed before his contemporaries is, Was there an alternative to Stalinism? He insists, on the basis of a profound study of Soviet history, that there was: that Stalinism was neither the inevitable nor necessary outcome of the October Revolution, but represented its betrayal and negation. In referring to Vadim as a prophet, it is not my intention to invoke the image of an austere and pleasure-denying ascetic, indifferent to and detached from the daily cares, concerns and joys of the world in which he lives. No one who knows Vadim could imagine him in a hermits cave. He is delightfully human, a connoisseur of ice cream and all things beautiful, a fanatical sight-seer, a man who partakes of life with an enthusiastic curiosity, and who loves poetry and the company of colleagues and friends. But the pursuit of truth is the commanding passion of his life. It is this fundamental element of his intellectual and moral character that makes Vadim Rogovin so exceptional a figure. We live today in a disoriented and distracted world, whose attitude to truth recalls that of Pontias Pilate, who, when told by a certain renowned prisoner that he had come into the world to bear witness unto the truth, replied, rather cynically, And what is truth? Pilate wished to suggest that the practical and successful man need not trouble himself with such an abstract problem, and that, at any rate, the definition of truth is a purely personal matter, which changes with the needs of the day. Some 2000 years have passed, but the pragmatic outlook of that Roman bureaucrat still has many adherents. From all quarters we are told that objective truth is a mirage, a burdensome philosophical construction and naive affectation of Enlightenment thought, with its foolish faith in the power of reason, that man would be better off without. The most powerful refutation of this contemptuous attitude toward the search for truth is to be found in the fate of the Soviet Union and contemporary Russia. In this country we see the horrifying consequences of the suppression of objective truth, which was concentrated in the systematic falsification of history. As one who lives outside Russia, I can only follow the conditions that exist in this country through the press and with the help of reports that I receive from Russian friends and co-thinkers. Those of you who live in this country are far better informed than I of the present state of affairs in Russia. But whatever your political views may be, as humane and decent people, I am sure you are deeply troubled by the innumerable statistical indices, not to mention visible signs, of economic breakdown and social decay. A tiny fraction of the population is wallowing in obscene wealth of unexplained origins, while the great mass of the people is suffering ever-greater deprivation. Many explanations of varying plausibility and quality have been given for the present state of affairs, but one thing must by now be clear. When the long-simmering crisis of Soviet society finally erupted in 1985, there was no one to be found who was in a position to understand, let alone provide a solution to, the problems confronting the USSR. It was not only the first secretary of the Communist Party who was overwhelmed and bewildered. Little help was forthcoming from Soviet economists, philosophers, and sociologists. The activities of the politicians and their advisers during the era of Perestroika resembled a game of Blind Mans Bluff. Programs that were announced with great fanfare on one day, were found to be unworkable on the second day, and forgotten on the third. What was lacking in those days was any sense of historical perspective. How could a path be found to the future without an objective and honest confrontation with the past? I recall reading in November 1987 Gorbachevs speech on the 70th anniversary of the Bolshevik Revolution. Shamefully, Stalin was praised for his contribution to socialism, and, as always, Trotsky was denounced as the arch-enemy of Lenin. The entire speech was a tissue of lies and vulgar distortions. Upon reading this banal and dishonest speech, one could not help but shake ones head and comment with bitter sarcasm: And it is upon this rotten foundation that Gorbachev plans the renewal of Soviet society! A terrible price continues to be paid for the falsification of history and the denial of objective truth. It is a poignant fact that the year in which we celebrate Vadims 60th birthday is also the sixtieth anniversary of the most terrible year in the history of the Soviet Union, 1937. The events of that year, which were to have such tragic consequences for the fate of the Soviet Union and the cause of international socialism, also determined the direction of Vadim Rogovins intellectual life. Just three months before Vadim was born, Leon Trotsky replied to the Moscow frame-up trial of Radek, Piatakov and other Old Bolsheviks who had been condemned by Stalin. The Moscow Trials, he proclaimed, arose from the betrayal of socialism by the totalitarian bureaucracy. Every charge made by Vizhinsky against the defendants was a lie. Be it over our bleaching bones, Trotsky declared, the truth will triumph. Vadim Rogovin has dedicated his life to the victory of that truth, in which he believes so passionately. None of us can predict either the time when or the precise form in which the terrible social and political problems confronting the people of the former Soviet Union will find their solution. In the final analysis, the resolution of this crisis depends not only on events within Russia, but on the unfolding of the class struggle beyond its borders. But we can say with certainty that among the most important intellectual indications that a solution is in the process of being discovered will be the expanding circulation of the books of Vadim Rogovin. And we can also predict, with the utmost confidence, that the time is not too far off when our friend, colleague, and comrade, Vadim Zakharovitch Rogovin, will be acknowledged in Russia and throughout the world as not only one of the greatest historians of his age, but also as one of the most honest and principled men of his time. _____________________________________________________________ A Tribute to Vadim Rogovin, May 15, 2002 Today we meet to commemorate what would have been Vadim Rogovin's 65th birthday, and to celebrate the publication of the seventh and final volume of his magnificent historical cycle Was There an Alternative to Stalinism?, a history of the political struggle against the betrayal of the October Revolution from the founding of the Left Opposition in 1923 to the assassination of Leon Trotsky in 1940. There is a profound and moving symbolism in the combination of these events. In observing the 65th anniversary of his birth, we celebrate Vadim's life. In welcoming the publication of the seventh volume of his History, we honor Vadim's work. Every human life is both finite and infinite. It is finite in its individuality and physical mortality. But it is infinite both as an element of mans collective social being and, on that basis, to the extent that it gives conscious expression to the universal in human experience and thereby transcends the boundaries of finite existence. David North speaking at the memorial meeting in Moscow in May 2002 There are those who, to use the words of Trotsky, "carry on their shoulders a particle of the fate of mankind." In such people, this precious element of the infinite transcendence finds exceptionally intense expression. Their contribution to mankinds future lives on after them. The legacy of their lives enters into the consciousness of ensuing generations, and becomes the treasured and collective inheritance of all humanity. Such a life was that of Vadim Zakharovich Rogovin. Wherein lay the greatness of Vadim Rogovin? That question can be answered only by placing his life in the context of the times in which he livedespecially, in the context of the last decade of his life, the period of Vadim's greatest intellectual creativity. Much has happened in the former Soviet Union during the past 15 years. Today, it is not my intention to enter into an argument over the nature of the changes in the social and economic structure of post-Soviet society. There are among us, I am sure, many different opinions as to the nature and consequences of these changes. It was Vadim's view, which corresponds to that of the international Trotskyist movement, that the protracted crisis of the Soviet Stalinist regime was resolved in the late 1980s and 1990s in a manner that was politically reactionary and socially regressive. But there is one particularly notable feature of the intellectual environment of the last 15 years to which I feel obliged to call attention. Notwithstanding all that has happened since the mid-1980s, there has not emerged from the upheavals of Soviet and post-Soviet society a single political figure who commands international respect, let alone admiration. To the extent that mankind is searching for new and promising ideas, it occurs to no one to look for them in post-Soviet Russia. Virtually all those who have achieved prominence or notoriety have been exposed as mediocrities and rank scoundrels. Who, today, could speak of the "greatness" of Gorbachev, Yeltsin, Lebed, Sobchak (some of these names are probably not even remembered) and, excuse me, the present occupant of the Kremlin, without causing his audience to burst out laughing? All of these people were, or are, unconscious instruments of historical and social processes that they neither foresaw nor understood. I should add that blindness and mediocrity is not an affliction of political life alone. Perhaps I am poorly informed, but I believe that one can say, without serious contradiction, that the cultural life of Russia is as impoverished as its economy. Has there been produced, during the past decade, a single major novel, an important poem, a significant musical composition, or even a cinematic work that is truly worthy of international attention? Against the background of this intellectual and cultural wasteland, the work of Vadim Rogovin stands out all the more as a monumental achievement. The seven volumes of Vadim's history will endure as a major contribution to not only Russian, but also world literature. "Great history," wrote E. H. Carr "is written precisely when the historians vision of the past is illumined by insights into problems of the present." Herein lies the key to understanding the significance of Vadim's works. It was Vadim's preoccupation with the problems of his own time and his concern for mankind's future that compelled him to study, analyze and explain the past. Vadim's ferocious preoccupation with the problem of historical truth was not that of a simple moralist. Rather, it derived from a profound insight into the great problem of the epoch in which he livedthat the universal loss of social perspective, the decline of class consciousness, the all-pervasive political bewilderment and stupefaction of public opinion is the social price paid for decades of Stalinisms lies and falsifications. The destruction of historical consciousness has created a confused and disoriented people, unable to understand the nature of the social and political problems they confront and to discover a progressive solution to the crisis of their society. What was the task that Vadim set for himself during the last decade of his life? To refute the gross falsification of Trotsky's role in Soviet history; to counter the lie that Stalinism was the necessary and organic product of Marxism and the October Revolution; to answer the claim that there existed no alternative to Stalinism in the USSR. In discussion and in collaboration with the International Committee of the Fourth International, Vadim developed his interpretation of the Stalinist purges of the 1930s as a form of political genocide, directed against the representatives of Marxist politics and culture in the Soviet working class and intelligentsia. Vadim interpreted the terror of the 1930s as a form of civil war, directed by Stalin and his henchmen (Molotov, Kaganovich, Voroshilov, Beria, Yezhov, Mikoyan and others) against a suppressed but still powerful socialist opposition, whose greatest voice was Lev Davidovich Trotsky. Underlying this historical analysis was a concept of philosophical profundity. Vadim insisted that the motive force that determined the murderous character of the Stalinist regime was the striving for social privilegethe achievement of material benefits for the few, at the expense of the many. The social policy that found expression in the crimes of Stalin was the promotion and defense, by the bureaucracy that he led, of social inequality. The fundamental contrast between Bolshevism and Stalinism was precisely this: the historical objective of the former was the achievement of social equality; the goal of the latter was the protection of individual privilege. As Vadim wrote, "Stalin's greed for material things, his craving for limitless luxury in his everyday life were passed on to his descendents up to and including Gorbachev, all of whom, unlike the Bolshevik Old Guard, were unwilling to share physical difficulties and privations with the people." At the core of Vadim's philosophy of history was an unshakable insistence on the ontological validity of objective truth. The recognition of truth as the correspondence of subjective thought with objective properties and processes of social being, is the essential basis of scientific historical consciousness. This axiom must serve not only as the foundation for the study of the history of the USSR. At issue here is a truly international problem: that of coming to grips with the historical experience and lessons of the 20th century as a whole. It is not only in Russia that this problem demands attention. In my references to the blighted state of post-Soviet society, I did not mean to suggest that Americans and Europeans are enjoying a flowering of intellectual creativity. The situation beyond the borders of Russia is no less pathetic. In different forms and with varying degrees of intensity, one encounters throughout the world the same disorientation, confusion and ignorance. And, as in Russia, the source of this disorientation is the failure to assimilate and theoretically comprehend the historical events and experiences out of which the present emerged. And how can the experience of the past be assimilated and comprehended when even the factual components of historyespecially those related to the October Revolution and its aftermathare concealed and falsified? That is why the work of Vadim Rogovin is of world significance and has attracted an international audience. There are periods of history when revolutionary social upheavals shatter old barriers and clear a path for great advances in every sphere of human culture. In the wake of such upheavals, there emerge the geniuses who act as the spokesmen of the new age. They amplify all the progressive impulses of their time and endow them with the most profound, universal, and timeless form. But there are other, more difficult and painful periods of history, when creative genius must labor in isolation and in opposition. The exceptional figures of such an epoch are not men and women of their times, but men and women against their times. In this sense, there is a parallel between the life of Trotsky and the life of Rogovin. Had Trotsky died in 1923, he would have certainly lived on in history as one of the major figures of the ascendant Russian Revolution. But it was what he achieved during the last 17 years of his life, between 1923 and 1940his unyielding struggle against the Stalinist betrayal of world socialismthat ensured Trotskys historical immortality as the greatest and most important revolutionary thinker and leader of the 20th and perhaps even of the 21st century. Vadim's greatness, like that of Trotsky, manifested itself in political, intellectual, and moral oppositionin his courageous, principled and indefatigable devotion to historical truth, in an environment made rotten by decades of lies, cynicism, hypocrisy and cowardice. In opposition to the times in which he lived, Vadim Rogovin produced seven volumes that will live in world literature as a moral and intellectual milestone in mankind's reclaiming of its revolutionary heritage. The seventh volume of Vadim's book is entitled, The End is the Beginning. This title might also serve as a fitting epitaph for Vadim himself. Only his physical being left us on September 18, 1998. That which was immortal in Vadim's life and work lives with us and gains in strength from day to day. The massacre of Hindus by Razakars in Hyderabad refers to a series of violent and tragic events that occurred during the integration of the princely state of Hyderabad into the newly independent India in 1948. It is important to note that the term "Razakars" specifically refers to the private militia formed by the Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Osman Ali Khan, to resist the integration of Hyderabad into India. Here is a detailed account of the massacre and the events leading up to it: Background: Hyderabad was one of the largest princely states in India during the British colonial period. It was ruled by the Nizam, who was a Muslim ruler, while the majority of the population in the state, particularly in the Telangana region, was Hindu. Reasons for the Massacre: The Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Osman Ali Khan, was reluctant to join either India or Pakistan after India gained independence in 1947. He wanted Hyderabad to remain an independent princely state.The Indian government, under the leadership of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, aimed to integrate all princely states into India, and Hyderabad was no exception. The Razakars, a private militia organized by the Nizam and led by Kasim Razvi, strongly opposed the integration of Hyderabad into India. They were known for their violent and oppressive tactics. The Massacre: As tensions escalated between the Indian government and the Nizam's regime, violence erupted in Hyderabad. The Razakars, with the support of the Nizam's administration, carried out a series of brutal attacks on Hindus, who were seen as supporters of the integration with India. Thousands of Hindus were killed, and many more were injured and displaced during these attacks. Reports of widespread sexual violence and rape of Hindu women also emerged during this period. Exact numbers are difficult to ascertain, but these acts were a part of the larger campaign of terror. Indian Military Intervention: The situation in Hyderabad continued to deteriorate, leading the Indian government to launch a military operation named "Operation Polo" in September 1948. Indian forces quickly defeated the Razakars and brought an end to the Nizam's rule in Hyderabad. Hyderabad was integrated into the Indian Union, and a democratic government was established. Aftermath: The violence and massacre during the integration of Hyderabad into India left deep scars on the collective memory of the people affected. Efforts were made to rehabilitate and provide justice to the victims of the violence. Kasim Razvi, the leader of the Razakars, was arrested and later released, but his influence waned over time. It is important to recognize that this period of history was marked by complex political, religious, and regional factors. The violence that occurred during the integration of Hyderabad remains a painful chapter in the history of India, and efforts to understand and remember this history continue today. Accurate and detailed statistics regarding the number of casualties and victims of sexual violence are difficult to determine due to the chaotic nature of the events and the passage of time. Sri Sathya Ganapati Temple in Bangalore Adorns with Crores of Rupes for Ganesh Chaturthi Revisiting the Era of Hand-Painted Bollywood Movie Posters Rishi Panchmi 2023: Honoring the Sage Tradition on September 20th Mehring Books has just released the second volume in Vadim Rogovins seven-volume series Was There an Alternative to Stalinism? The product of decades of research, this series is a masterpiece of historical literature. Bolsheviks Against Stalinism 19281933 focuses on five critical years during which the Stalinist bureaucracy careened from one economic and political crisis to the next. The expulsion of Leon Trotsky from the Soviet Union in 1929 failed to silence the great revolutionary and his followers. Trotskys exposure of Stalins betrayals encouraged the emergence of a broad network of oppositional groups, which the regime met with intensifying political repression. In this introduction to the book, Rogovin raises the seminal question answered in the remaining pages: Why, on the ground prepared by the October Revolution, did there appear a phenomenon such as Stalinism? The book is available at mehring.com. *** For what is now half a century, historians, political scientists, and sociologists around the world have continually been seeking an answer to the question that remains the most complex historical riddle of the twentieth century: Why, on the ground prepared by the October Revolution, did there appear a phenomenon such as Stalinism? Its natural consequences were stagnation, and then the modern-day, all-embracing socio-economic and socio-political crisis that seized the decaying Soviet Union and other countries of the former socialist commonwealth. Bolsheviks Against Stalinism 1928-1933 In Soviet and foreign historical and political literature, two fundamentally different answers to this question are offered. One of them stems from the idea that Stalinism and post-Stalinism were the natural and inevitable result of the implementation of Marxist doctrine and the revolutionary practice of Bolshevism. The second is based on the idea that Stalinism was the product of a massive bureaucratic reaction to the October Revolution, and represented not a continuation, but rather the total negation and destruction of the principles of Bolshevism. A peculiarity of the counter-revolution carried out by Stalin and his accomplices was that it took place under the ideological cover of Marxist phraseology and never-ending vows of loyalty to the October Revolution. Naturally, such a counter-revolution demanded a historically unprecedented piling up of lies and falsifications. It required the fabrication of ever-newer myths. However, a no-less-developed mythology is demanded to support the position advanced today by those who believe that the socialist choice of our people in 1917 was a false one. They identify Stalinism, as a system of social relations, with socialism; and Stalinism, as a political and ideological force, with Bolshevism. The more clearly Soviet society recoils from the conquests of the October Revolution toward backward, semi-colonial capitalism, and the more wide-scale and painful the destructive consequences of this process prove to be, the more actively views of this sort are propagated. Like the Stalinists, modern-day anti-communists use two kinds of myths: ideological and historical. By ideological myths we mean false ideas, directed at the futurethat is, illusory prognoses and promises. Such products of false consciousness reveal their mythological character only to the extent that they are implemented in practice. Myths that appeal not to the future but to the past are another matter. In principle, it is easier to expose these myths than anti-scientific prognoses and reactionary projections. Both ideological and historical myths are a product of immediate class interests. But in contrast to the former, the latter are products, not of political error or conscious deception of the masses, but of historical ignorance or indubitable falsificationthat is, the concealment of some historical facts or the tendentious exaggeration and distorted interpretation of others. These myths may be refuted by restoring historical truththe honest presentation of actual facts and tendencies of the past. Unfortunately, in recent years the representatives of the ideological currents defending the socialist choice have not utilized the entire aggregate of historical facts that allow one to debunk the newest historical mythology. As a rule, they conclude their analysis of the fate of the socialist idea and its practical implementation in the USSR by referring to Lenins last works. However, Lenins political activity was interrupted precisely at that historical moment when the Soviet Union had only just emerged from the first extreme stages of its developmentthe civil war and the monstrous post-war destruction; a time when the possibilities of peaceful socialist construction had just begun, and also when the contours had just become visible of the new danger threatening socialist development in an isolated and backward countrythe Thermidorian degeneration of the October Revolution. After the death of Lenin, Bolshevism split into two irreconcilable political tendencies: Stalinism and the Left Opposition (Bolshevik-Leninists, as they called themselves, or Trotskyists, according to the Stalinists). In the 1920s, the Left Opposition was the only current to advance a program in opposition to Stalinism on all essential questions of the world communist movement and the building of socialism in the USSR. It developed and enriched, on the basis of new historical experience, ideas about the ways to make the transition from capitalism to socialism, about the new economic policy, and about the resolution of the national question in the USSR, which had only begun to be elaborated in the works of Lenin. Precisely because Stalinism was not the continuation, but the negation of Bolshevism, it engaged in a fierce struggle against this mass movement in the party, which advanced and substantiated a genuinely socialist alternative for the development of Soviet society, and defended the political, ideological, and moral principles of the October Revolution. These principles were being destroyed by the bureaucratic apparatusthe main social buttress of the Stalinist regime. After the Left Opposition had been driven out of the party in 1927, legal inner-party political struggle became impossible. The activity of the Bukharin group inside the Politburo and Central Committee, which ended in 1929 with a total capitulation to Stalin, was the last attempt at open resistance to the consolidation of Stalinism. However, the struggle of inner-party oppositions against Stalinism continued for many years. Of course, the struggle unfolded in different forms than in the previous decade. Open party discussions on questions of domestic and international policy had come to an end. The activity of the new oppositions emerging inside the party were illegal. Their participants were subjected to not only party sanctions, but also brutal police persecution. Throughout the first half of the 1930s, the most active oppositional force in the communist movement continued to be Trotsky, who was in exile, and his Soviet co-thinkers, who were active either in the underground, or in Stalinist prisons, camps, and deportation. In the 1930s, the Left Opposition made the most significant contribution to Marxist theory, inasmuch as its works contained a scientific analysis of the first experience with socialist construction in history, albeit one realized with distorted methods of bureaucratic command over the working masses. Exposing the gigantic costs of these methods (characteristic not only of the 1930s, but of all subsequent periods of Soviet development), Trotsky and his associates proved that with the democratization of political life and the carrying out of social policies corresponding to the interests, not of narrow privileged groups, but the broad popular masses, it would have been possible not only to avoid colossal human losses and the sharp lowering of the peoples living standards, but also to achieve much more effective economic results. The period under consideration in this book was a time when new oppositions composed of former Bukharinists and Stalinists arrived at Trotskyist ideas. This process concluded in 1932 with an attempt to unite the old and new oppositional groups inside the party. In this book we attempt to trace the history of the inner-party struggles of 19281933, comparing the following fundamental types of sources: official party documents (decisions of congresses and plenums of the Central Committee, the speeches of Stalin and his accomplices, Stalinist propaganda); memoirs of the participants in political life of those years; Soviet archival material that exposes important aspects of historical events hidden from contemporaries; and oppositional documents, a large portion of which are unknown to the Soviet reader. Familiarity with these documents convinces one that everything which is correct in contemporary criticism of Stalinism was already said by the Bolshevik opposition from the end of the 1920s to the beginning of the 1930s. In addition, one encounters many conclusions in the documents of these opposition groups that are missing from contemporary historical works, and that in their entirety represent a systematic alternative to Stalinism in the economic, social, political, and intellectual spheres. The development of the inner-party struggle during these years cannot be considered in isolation from the fate of world capitalism, whose deep and universal crisis, having begun in 1914, assumed particularly sharp forms from 19291933. The change from the unstable post-war prosperity into the great depression which shook the entire capitalist world, was the most convincing refutation of arguments that the Bolsheviks, having viewed the October Revolution as a prologue to proletarian and national-liberation revolutions in other countries, overestimated the depth of the global contradictions of capitalism. However, the structural crisis of the entire capitalist system, having assumed an unprecedented scale, did not end in the victory of socialist revolutions, inasmuch as the revolutionary movement was betrayed and wrecked from within. The theory of the victory of socialism in one country led to the transformation of the Comintern and its affiliated communist parties from a revolutionary force into a means of guaranteeing foreign political conditions favorable for development of the USSR. The defeat of the German workers movement was the clearest evidence of the revolutionary possibilities missed at the start of the 1930s by the Stalinized Comintern. The sectarian errors of the German Communist Party, which blocked the creation of a united, anti-fascist workers front in Germany, opened the road to power for Hitler, who took advantage of the intolerable conditions in which the German people found themselves as a result of the rapacious Versailles Treatyone of the ugliest products of imperialism. Instead of being the leading force spurring other peoples to struggle for socialism, the Soviet Union increasingly had a negative impact, repelling wide layers of workers in the capitalist countries from the communist movement. This played no small role in the defeat of revolutionary forces in the West. Along with this, the weakening of capitalism in the 1930s was the factor that allowed Stalin to not only preserve but strengthen his position in the international arena. Thus, the world capitalist crisis, which confirmed the correctness of Marxist theory and Bolshevik strategy, objectively contributed to the consolidation of Stalinism. The critical sharpening of the contradictions of world capitalism coincided chronologically with the extreme sharpening of social tensions in the USSR as a result of forced collectivization. The time for systematic reforms of a genuinely socialist character was lost in 19231927, when the party was continuously infected with the fever of the struggle against Trotskyism, imposed on it by the unscrupulous ruling bloc. All of Stalins statements and actions in the field of socio-economic policy during this time bore an externally measured character. This was dictated above all by his striving to present the ideas of his ideological opponents as the promoters of a new civil war. On the basis of the social moods generated by these false conceptions, he sought to cast his opponents out of the leadership and drive them out of the party. Having accomplished this goal, Stalin had a free hand to carry out adventurist zigzags in domestic and foreign policy, and the mass repressions associated with them, which from year to year became ever more widespread and ruthless. At the time of the ultra-left turn in domestic policy that took place on the cusp of the 1930s, Stalin did not have a thought-out political strategy rooted in a realistic evaluation of the situation in the country and an appraisal of the scale of the resistance that the peasantry might offer to forced collectivization. A. Avtorkhanov correctly notes that at the time Stalin delivered his report On the Grain Front, in which collectivization was declared the singular method for the state procurement of grain, Stalin himself could hardly have imagined how this would all turn out concretely and what the costs of this complex process would be. Stalins policy of 19291933 was a series of unceasing empirical zigzags, from adventurist offensives to panicked retreats, from administrative pressure to economic concessions to the popular masses, and then back again to whipping up a state of emergency atmosphere in the country. Stalin ended up on the verge of a total political catastrophe more than once, as a result of these zigzags. In one of the rare moments in which he was open about himself, he acknowledged that the struggle with the peasantry was an ordeal more terrible for him than even World War II. Churchills memoirs record his conversation with Stalin on 15 August 1942. Tell me, Churchill asked Stalin, have the stresses of this war been as difficult for you personally as carrying through the policy of collectivization? Well, no, replied Stalin, the policy of collectivization was a terrible struggle. I thought you would have found it bad, Churchill responded, because you were not dealing with several thousands of aristocrats or big landowners, but with millions of small men. With tens of millions, Stalin said, raising his hands. It was something terrible. It lasted four years. For a correct understanding of the upheavals of forced collectivization, it is important above all to have a scientific conception of the social and political essence of Stalinism. This essence is best encapsulated in the notion of bureaucratic centrism, which characterizes the policy, not just of Stalin, but of all subsequent leaders in the party. Although official Soviet propaganda indefatigably insisted that the party is armed with the most advanced scientific theory, from the end of the 1920s onward, Marxist phraseology served as ideological camouflage for the ruling cliques exceptionally empiricist political course. Calling Stalin an empiricist, Trotsky repeatedly stressed that Stalin never possessed a theoretically developed strategic plan and an ability to foresee the short-term, and even more so, the long-term consequences of his policy. In the elaboration of his tactics he never began from theory and strategy, but rather subordinated theory and strategy to tactical goals dictated by the collision with immediate and unforeseen difficulties to which his unsystematic and scientifically-groundless policy brought him. Stalins pragmatic policy, masked with abstract socialist language, underwent sharp fluctuations. In periods of relative stability in the countrys domestic and foreign affairs, bureaucratic centrism set out from an opportunistic striving to preserve the status quo in the international arena and to maintain prevailing social relations inside the country. In periods of crisis, it shifted to an eclectic policy of casting about between political extremes. Gorbachevs perestroika, which can justifiably be called collectivization inside out, was a peculiar parallel of the Stalinist policy of the great turning point. Carried out, like complete collectivization, without a clear strategic plan, scientific conception, or clear notion of the goals and consequences of the planned transformations, perestroika had consequences for the fate of the Soviet people and all mankind that were no less disastrous than Stalins socialist offensive on all fronts. In 19281933, crude empiricism in policy drove the economy from one crisis to the next. Stalin invariably explained these crises, which emerged as the result of a mistaken political line, as a product of the growing resistance of class enemies. The method chosen for getting out of the crises was a policy of emergency measures, administrative pressure, and brutal repression applied to ever wider layers of the population. Attempting to be rescued from economic difficulties with these policies, Stalin embarked on a struggle against the kulaks, which grew into a frontal confrontation with the entire peasantry, essentially provoking the latter into a new civil war. When describing the Stalinist repressions, both in official Soviet and in anti-communist historiography, albeit for different reasons, the accent usually falls on the fact that they were all carried out against rabbits (to use Alexander Solzhenitsyns expression). However, in reality, neither the White Guard conspirators continuing to struggle with all methods and means for the restoration of capitalism throughout the 1920s and 1930s; nor peasants responding to forced collectivization with mass uprisings; nor Bolshevik oppositionists fighting against Stalin in the name of restoring socialist principles, were such rabbits. Stalin provocatively united all these forces, whose thoughts and actions were of a profoundly heterogeneous character, into a single amalgam under the label enemies of the people. In foreign and contemporary Soviet historical literature, the state terror unleashed by Stalin at the end of the 1920s is frequently regarded as a natural continuation of the Bolsheviks struggle against opponents of the October Revolution in the years of the civil war. Such an identification consciously conceals the fundamental differences in the scale, function, and objectives of the political repressions in the Leninist versus the Stalinist epochs. The repressions at the time of the civil war were carried out by the Bolsheviks with the active support of the masses, under conditions in which the party and its leaders shared the peoples sacrifices and deprivations. The blows were delivered against forces of the old regime, which had at their command superbly equipped and organized armies that had received enormous material and financial aid from abroad. The immediate military actions against the White Armies were accompanied by a struggle against conspiracies in the rear (at the time of civil wars, the dividing line separating the front from the rear is usually relative), which served the same goalcounter-revolutionary restorationthat is, the restoration of the privileges of the former ruling classes in Tsarist Russia. In contrast, the terror of the 1930s was the guardian of inequality. By its very character, it was anti-popular; and being potentially or actually directed against the majority, it was total and indiscriminate. From the beginning of collectivization, the unleashing of a gigantic repressive state mechanism led to constant injections of such monstrous doses of fear into such a vast part of the social organism that the whole body was inevitably poisoned. Once the machine of terror, far more massive than anything hitherto seen, was mounted and set in motion, it developed its own inertia which did not submit to control. Immediately after the end of the civil war in 1922, political repressions declined sharply. In the mid-1920s, the number of inmates in Soviet prisons and camps did not exceed 100,000 to 150,000 people. Of this number, just a few hundred were sentenced for political reasons. From 1928, the population of the camps began to grow steadily, reaching a half million people in 1934. More than a quarter of this number were political prisoners. Stalins repressive campaigns flowed from his fear not only of the peasantry, but of the working class and above all, its revolutionary vanguardthe Left Opposition. The ever-growing wave of mass violence was directed not against enemies of the October Revolution, but against enemies that the Stalinist regime itself created: the peasantry resisting forced collectivization and participants in the communist oppositions. With his adventurist policy in the field of economics and with mass repressions, Stalin continually added to the initial enemies of Soviet power ever more thousands of its actual and potential opponents, who equated socialism with the Stalinist regime. Simultaneously with blows against the peasantrythe most massive force of resistance to the Stalinist regimebrutal blows were meted out against communists guilty of vacillation, or, on the contrary, against those who carried out the policies dictated by Stalin with consistency and zeal. A permanent feature of Stalins rule consisted of assigning responsibility for the failures of his political course to those who carried it out. Rather than guarding against further economic disasters, the mass repressions laid the groundwork for them. Adventuristic and arbitrary decisions were fulfilled only partially and at an unjustifiably high price. Thus, forced collectivization not only utterly exhausted the productive forces of the village, but actually impeded the development of industry. If the Soviet regime survived the start of the 1930s, it was not thanks to Stalins leadership, but in spite of it. The victory of Stalin and the bureaucracy he led in the civil war against the peasantry can be explained by the fact that the working class opposed the restoration of capitalist relations, which would have led inevitably to the victory of a Russian Vendee. Because of this, the working class supported the bureaucracy in the latters convulsive struggle with the peasant masses. Moreover, in these years the cities experienced less of the repressions, which came down primarily on the rural population. And finally, not a small role was played by the fact that in this period Stalin formed a social base of support for his regime, in the form of privileged layers that included, in addition to the ruling bureaucracy, the labor aristocracy and upper-echelon intelligentsia. Nonetheless, Stalins position toward the end of the period under consideration in this book was extremely precarious. With his policy, he came into conflict with all of Soviet societys classes and social groups, including even a significant portion of the ruling bureaucracy. Despite Stalins apparent triumph in the struggle against his political opponents, a significant portion of the Bolsheviks did not regard his victory as final. The attempted formation in 1932 of a bloc composed of representatives of all the anti-Stalinist oppositions is evidence of this. The complex upheavals of the inner-party struggle of 19281933 will be the primary subject under consideration in our book. Order Bolsheviks Against Stalinism 19281933: Leon Trotsky and the Left Opposition at Mehring.com. Recently published in English, Rogovins second historical volume, Bolsheviks Against Stalinism 19281933: Leon Trotsky and the Left Opposition, focuses on five critical years during which the Stalinist bureaucracy careened from one economic and political crisis to the next. Stalins expulsion of Trotsky from the Soviet Union in 1929 failed to silence the great revolutionary and his followers. Trotskys exposure of Stalins betrayals encouraged the emergence of a broad network of oppositional groups, which the regime met with intensifying political repression. Of Rogovins monumental series, David North wrote, [A] critical element of Vadims historical cycle is its interpretation of the conflict between the Stalinist regime and the Left Opposition as a clash of two irreconcilable social principlesthose of equality and inequality. During its Holiday Sale, Mehring Books is offering this volume at a sharply reduced price of $15 for the black and white version or $20 for the color version. *** This book was published by Vadim Rogovin in Moscow in the fall of 1993, slightly less than two years after the Soviet Union had been dissolved. It is the second volume of what would become a seven-volume study of the struggle of the Left Opposition, both inside the Soviet Union and abroad, as it fought the Stalinist degeneration of the workers state established after the October Revolution in 1917. The first volume raises the question: Was There an Alternative to Stalinism? It studies the rise of the Left Opposition led by Leon Trotsky in 1923, and ends with the expulsion of Trotsky and his supporters at the Fifteenth Party Congress in 1927. The succeeding volumes examine the history of the resistance to Stalinism up through Trotskys assassination in August 1940 and the outbreak of World War II. Rogovin began collecting material about the inner-party struggle as a teenager, soon after Stalins death in 1953. During the Thaw in 1956, signaled by Khrushchevs famous secret speech at the Twentieth Party Congress in February, Rogovins hopes were raised that a true history of this period could be written. But Khrushchevs de-Stalinization was partial; many of the most odious falsifications of history remained. After Khrushchevs fall in 1964, relatively bleak years dominated on the historical front. Trotskys name was taboo. None of his works were readily available in the Soviet Union, and Rogovin could not assume that he would ever be able to publish the history he yearned to write. After Gorbachev began the process of perestroika in 1985, one of the slogans of that time was glasnost (openness). Official Communist Party publications started to publish documents of previously banned topics in Soviet history. Soon a flood of these documents was published in journals, newspapers, and books, often in enormous press runs (the relatively obscure newspaper, Arguments and Facts, reached a press run of 33 million!). Rogovin devoured this material, thoroughly assimilated it, and began to write his volumes with incredible honesty, courage and speed. By 1991, the first volume appeared. By 1992, Rogovin was able to begin collaborating with members of the International Committee of the Fourth International. This collaboration was crucial, since many of Rogovins former colleagues and friends were abandoning Marxism and renouncing the entire history of the Soviet Union. Rogovin, on the contrary, eagerly sought interlocutors who were approaching this history from a Marxist perspective. He found them both in Moscow and abroad, as he delivered lectures based on his research in London, Glasgow, the United States, Australia and Germany. In May 1994, Rogovin was diagnosed with cancer. The prognosis was not good he was initially given six months to live. Despite this tragic news, Rogovin continued to lecture and write in a way that astounded his oncologists, family, and newly found collaborators. Rogovin worked assiduously until virtually the day before he died, on 18 September 1998. Rogovins achievement as a historian is monumental. He was not able to see many of the volumes of documents that have appeared in the former Soviet Union since his death. These include thousands of pages on the NEP; the inner-party struggle; collectivization and industrialization; the Comintern; the Great Terror; and the outbreak of war. Yet what he wrote, based on what he managed to see and use in his analysis of these complex events, stands the test of time. Although published in Russian in 1993, little in this book needs to be changed to be historically accurate. Given the new socialist wave that Rogovin felt was inevitable, he called for a profound understanding of the historical lessons of the past, in order to avoid fatal mistakes in the coming political battles. This requires a study of the political and ideological heritage of Marxists of the 1930s, many of whom are unknown to the readers Rogovin anticipated, but whose history assumes urgent significance today. To aid the reader, brief biographies of many of these Marxists have been appended to the book. More volumes are planned to appear in English, joining the two others that have already been published by Mehring Books. Vadim Z. Rogovin, Was There an Alternative? 19231927. Trotskyism: A Look Back Through the Years. Mehring Books, 2021. ISBN 9781893638969. Available for purchase here. Was There an Alternative? The English-language publication of Soviet historian and sociologist Vadim Rogovins first book in the seven-volume cycle on the socialist opposition to Joseph Stalin is a major political and intellectual event. Was There an Alternative? 19231927. Trotskyism: A Look Back Through the Years focuses on the period when, under the leadership of Leon Trotsky, the Left Opposition initiated the battle against the bureaucratic clique consolidating around Stalin inside the Communist Party and the Soviet Union. Rogovin (19371998) explodes the myth, shared by both anti-communists and Stalinists alike, that Stalinism evolved naturally and seamlessly out of Bolshevism. He demonstrates that this claim can only be sustained by erasing from the historical record the socioeconomic and political convulsions that seized the USSR and Communist Partythat is, by arguing, as he notes in his introduction, that all the interim stages between October 1917 and the consolidation of power by the Stalinist regime were insignificant zigzags. The volume, published first in Russian in 1992, is a feat of historical research. It makes use of a vast array of sources to which, until the late 1980s and 1990s, Soviet citizens were denied access by the Kremlins occupants. Most of this material has also been inaccessible to Western readers, except for small portions used in historical research published in North America or Europe. Through letters among party members, minutes of meetings high and low, observations and notes of secretaries and other observers, reports and communications from regional and local party bodies, and countless other internal documents, as well as articles, speeches and commentary published in the press at the time, the reader descends into the history of the most important political struggle of the last centuryits twists and turns, personalities, tragic and noble moments, and underlying economic and social drivers. The drama, one could even say the heat of this hard-fought battle, spills off the pages. There are photographs, as well as original cartoons and other imagery not published since the 1920s in the Soviet Union, throughout the book. At the end, there are biographical notes on over 70 of the historical figures. Throughout the volume we hear the voice of Trotsky, as well as those of many other, lesser-known oppositionists. After decades of having been wiped out of official Soviet history, Rogovin returns them to their rightful place. The English-language translation differs from the original Russian version because Rogovin redrafted and expanded this volume as the result of intensive discussions he held with the Trotskyist movement during the mid-1990s. After having worked in near-total isolation for decades, he was finally able to review many complex historical and political questions in collaboration with co-thinkers in the International Committee of the Fourth International. The changes he made to his manuscript were painstakingly reviewed and incorporated into the English version by the translator Frederick Choate. Lenin and Trotsky at a celebration of the second anniversary of the October Revolution Was There an Alternative? begins by addressing the political situation in the country in the lead-up to the conflicts of the mid-1920s. It addresses the formation of a single-party system, the attitude of the Bolsheviks towards privileges for those in positions of authority, and the ban on factions instituted under Lenins leadership in 1921. Rogovins goal is twofold. First, to create a vivid portrait of the political life of the Bolshevik Party prior to Stalins rise to power, such that the reader grasps the chasm separating what was from what would come to be. Second, to demonstrate that in the final period of his life Lenin was preparing to openly combat Stalin and the tendencies that he represented. Already in 1922 the twin processes of bureaucratization and socioeconomic differentiation were underway. Rogovin notes that in that year, for instance, almost half of the 10,700 senior officials placed by the Central Committee went through an appointment process effectively overseen by the office of the general secretary, a position which Stalin held. In August 1922, a party conference legalized a proposal by Stalin and his supporters to create a hierarchy of wages for party officials. It also authorized their receipt of special housing and medical services, as well as child care and educational opportunities for their children. By bringing forward this kind of historical detail, the author illuminates in a very concrete manner the transformation happening inside the Bolshevik Party and the top-down and anti-egalitarian processes to which oppositionists would begin objecting. By early 1923, the conflict inside the Communist Party was well underway. At the end of the previous year, Lenin had begun dictating a series of letters, which would become known as his Testament, protesting the nationalist and bureaucratic tendencies emerging within the Communist Party. He proposed reforms to party and state structures in order to arrest their development. Making a series of observations about the strengths and weaknesses of a number of leading BolsheviksTrotsky, Grigory Zinoviev, Lev Kamenev, and othershe singled out Stalin for particular criticism, calling for his removal from the post of party general secretary and subjecting areas of work under his supervision to special criticism. Throughout the book, Rogovin returns to the history and fate of the Testament, demonstrating how Lenins final words haunted Stalin, who had to work repeatedly to suppress and contain their fallout. He convincingly argues that Stalin was guilty of the psychological murder of Lenin, who suffered his final stroke shortly after having read a series of party conference resolutions that condemned Trotsky and the Opposition for petty-bourgeois deviation. Members of the Left Opposition in 1927. (Front from left) Leonid Serebryakov, Karl Radek, Leon Trotsky, Mikhail Boguslavsky, Yevgeni Preobrazhensky; (back) Christian Rakovsky, Jacob Drobnis, Aleksander Beloborodov, and Lev Sosnovski The author also explores the possibility that Stalin was guilty of the poisoning of Lenin, a conclusion at which Trotsky would arrive. After having improved for many months, the Bolshevik leaders health quickly and inexplicably took a turn for the worse in mid-January 1924, at the moment when, as Rogovin notes, the main danger for Stalin was not Trotsky but Lenin. Stalin had both the motive and the means. At the very least, he was delighted by Lenins departure from history. Stalins secretary described the general secretary as follows at the time: He is in a good mood and beaming. At meetings and sessions he puts on a tragically mournful, hypocritical face, makes insincere speeches, and swears with pathos to be true to Lenin. Looking at him, I cannot help but think: What a swine you are. Lenins death created significant new political challenges for Trotsky, as his opponents felt they had free rein to falsely portray themselves as Lenins heirs and distort to their advantage pre-1917 differences between Lenin and Trotsky over the nature of the forthcoming Russian Revolution. Trotsky had long insisted, on the basis of his theory of permanent revolution, that the task facing the Russian working class was not just the overthrow of tsarism, but also the overturning of the capitalist order that had taken root in the country and to which the semi-feudal state was deeply tied as part of the global economy. Workers, allied to but standing at the helm of a massive peasant upsurge, would have to fight on the basis of an explicitly anti-feudal, anti-capitalist and socialist program. In contrast, Lenin had argued that the Russian working class and peasantry, united in a democratic dictatorship in opposition to the bourgeoisie, had to defeat tsarism and doggedly fight for their class interests, but would as of yet not be able to touch (without a whole series of transitional stages of revolutionary development) the foundations of capitalism. In April 1917, Lenin abandoned this position and came over to that of Trotsky. In doing so, he waged a political struggle against forces within his own partyamong them, Stalin, Kamenev and Zinovievwho, in essence, clung to illusions in bourgeois rule. This political history underlay the conflicts of the 1920s. Rogovin insists that by the time Lenin died in January 1924, Trotsky had already made a key error: in early 1923 he did not make his criticisms of party policy known outside the Politburo. In a chapter titled Trotskys Mistake, Rogovin argues the co-leader of the 1917 revolution lacked resolve. Here, the author underestimates the complexities facing political leaders navigating an inner-party situation and historical conjuncture in which contradictory tendencies have emerged and the prospects for their future evolution are as of yet extremely unclear. By the start of 1923, the Georgian Incident, which Rogovin discusses in his book, had revealed sharp divisions within the party over Soviet nationalities policy and Great Russian chauvinism. There were disagreements over the dangers involved in the New Economic Policy, which Lenin had spearheaded as a necessary political concession. The 1921 ban on the creation of formal factions inside the party added another complex dimension to the situation. But there was also the prospect that a revolution in Germany would fundamentally transform the world situation, break the USSR out of its isolation, and give Soviet workers renewed revolutionary strength. It was also entirely possible that Lenin would recover, return to political life, and unleash the bomb against Stalin that, according to Lenins private dictations, he was preparing for the 12th Party Congress. The situation was on a knifes edge. Lenins absence was used in 1923-1924 by Stalin and his allies, Zinoviev, and Kamenevtwo old Bolsheviks with whom the General Secretary had formed an illegal triumvirateto cement their authority. This faction, which was later transformed into a cabal of Seven whose members met secretly to work out their own agenda, used every trick in the book. But their maneuvers, demagogy, stacking the decks at party votes, and manufacture of the charge of Trotskyism failed to resolve the situation decisively in their favor. What becomes very clear from Rogovins account is the fact that the machinations and secrecy of the Stalin faction were symptomatic of its underlying instability. Zinoviev, for instance, insisted that he and his co-conspirators had to meet behind closed doorsin particular, without Trotskyso that they could vacillate among themselves. They could not confront his criticisms head on. Rogovin details these criticisms, and those of other Left Oppositionists, throughout the book. Particularly with regards to domestic policies and the issue of inner-party democracy, his summary is penetrating. His use of primary source material is particularly effective, as we hear in Oppositionists own words their ferocious objections. As he documents both the content and form of the unfolding political conflict, Rogovin draws out the connection between Trotskys and the Left Oppositions criticisms and the major problem confronting the USSRhow a backward and by then politically isolated country, catapulted into the future by socialist revolution but with a small industrial base that had been decimated by war and a vast and primitive peasant economy, could mobilize resources, develop and hold out against the surrounding capitalist states. His account is both complex and lucid. The volume examines how, having no real answer to the critique of Trotsky and the Left Opposition, and beset by crises provoked by its own policies, the Stalin faction responded with efforts to undermine Trotskys authority, politically and organizationally. Rogovins work is extremely valuable in terms of illuminating the methods used in this political skullduggery. The cabal took control over Lenins archive. It transferred people close to Trotsky out of leading positions in the Red Army. On the grounds of reviewing those party members who were not workers from the bench, it carried out a purge of 5,763 members in a campaign conducted with particular severity in those organizations which had passed resolutions favoring the Opposition. It maneuvered to ensure that at the 13th Party Congress in May 1924 no Oppositionists had deciding votes, and leading associates of Lenineven Trotsky, Radek, Rakovsky, and Piatakov, as members of the CC [Central Committee], were admitted to the congress merely with a consultative vote. It lied to the Soviet masses by printing false ballot counts so as to make it appear that there was little support for the Opposition more broadly in the party. In discussing the central political problem facing the Stalin faction, Rogovin quotes French Communist Party leader Boris Souvarine, who, speaking quite bluntly in 1924, observed, The great majority of the working class is Trotskyist. Despite all the attacks, Souvarine continued, Trotskys popularity continued to grow, as his lengthy speeches before diverse audiences sent his listeners into raptures. It was often said that only Trotsky offers new ideas, that only he has studied an issue seriously, etc. This attitude towards him was quite striking against the background of indifference, if not contempt, which greeted the banalities and trivialities that filled the pages of Pravda. The quote from Souvarine is only one of many that readers will find in the volume that addresses the attitude of the broad masses towards Trotsky, and the receptivity within the party, as well as the Comintern, to his positions. Speaking of the impact in 1924 of the publication of Lessons of October, Trotskys blistering critique of the failure of the Soviet Communist Party to correctly orient its German comrades as they faced an immediate revolutionary situation in their country in 1923, one communist wrote, The Lessons of October have become a battle crythe workers do not believe that Trotsky could oppose Leninism. By mid-1926, Rogovin explains, more than half of those Bolsheviks who had been elected to the Central Committee of the party in 1918, 1919 and 1920 had joined the Opposition. Zinoviev and Kamenev, who had been Stalins henchmen and leading architects of the assault on the Opposition, finally became so horrified over what they had wrought that they formed an alliance with Trotsky. The authors account of their criminal and tragic role fills the reader with foreboding; both Zinoviev and Kamenev would be tried and executed during the Great Terror. In 1927, after both broke with the Opposition and returned to the ruling faction, Zinoviev, referring to his past loyalty, asked Stalin, Does Comrade Stalin know what gratitude is? And Stalin replied, Its an illness that afflicts dogs. Was There an Alternative? notes how the nationalist and right-wing economic policies pursued under Stalins leadership produced disaster over the course of 1926-1927. The British working class was sold out by Stalin, who chose cooperation with the British trade unions over any independent struggle for political power by the masses. In China, the Communist Party was butchered by the Kuomintang (KMT) after having been instructed by Moscow to forge an alliance with it. Neither agriculture nor industry had recovered to their pre-war levels, and the countrys per capita national income stood at just 80 to 85 percent of that in 1913. The richest 4 percent of peasants controlled one-third of all agricultural machinery. The proletariats wages had stagnated and millions were unemployed. A full-blown grain crisis ultimately developed, with the state unable to buy enough food to feed the cities. Within this context, the Oppositions program was finding a hearing. Meetings, by now unsanctioned, started taking place in Moscow and Leningrad. Thousands attended. Precisely because Stalin and his backers had no solution to the economic problems facing the USSR or answers for their critics, they had to drive the Opposition into illegality. Over the course of 1926 and 1927, the party membership was flooded with new and inexperienced recruits. Meetings at which, in principle, party policy should have been discussed more broadly in the membership were held less frequently. The charge of Trotskyism intensified. Oppositionists statements were edited for distribution in such a manner that their positions could not be fully known and votes for representatives to party bodies occurred before their platforms were distributed. Trotsky and Kamenev were removed from the Politburo and Zinoviev as chair of the Comintern, and all three would shortly be expelled from the party. Charges of disorganizing behavior and factionalism were leveled against their supporters at party meetings. Anti-SemitismTrotsky, Zinoviev and Kamenev were all Jewishwas encouraged. At the 15th Party Congress in December 1927, crude and stupid interruptions from the audience drowned out the speeches of Oppositionists. We see here the destruction of the political culture of the Bolshevik Party. Rogovins account is extraordinary. The partisan reader will wish that he or she could descend into this history and stand on the side of the defiant. Rogovin himself clearly felt similarly, and one gets the sense that at moments when he argues that Trotsky made one or another mistake by not speaking out soon or sharply enough against his opponents, it is because Rogovin understood that the fate of the revolution depended on the outcome of this battle. Nothing was foreordained. The circumstances of Rogovins intellectual isolation imposed certain limits on his researchlimits that he was overcoming, in collaboration with the International Committee of the Fourth International, when his life was tragically cut short by cancer. While there is valuable material in the volume on the impact of Stalinism on some sections of the Comintern, such as the Polish Communist Party, the work focuses on the situation inside the Soviet Union. Rogovins knowledge and understanding of the consequences of socialism in one country around the world and the battle with the Left Opposition outside the borders of the USSR was still developing. He had far less access to primary and secondary source materials on this subject. His discussion of international issues is brief and, particularly with regards to the political conflict over events in Germany in 1923, a bit confusing. When he delves into the question of Stalins socialism in one country and the prospects for world revolution, his characterization of the global situation, particularly after World War II, is one-sided. He overestimates the stability achieved under American hegemony and the scale of the capitalist classs concessions and reforms. He incorrectly states that Trotsky believed socialist revolution in the US in the foreseeable future was not realistic. These limits notwithstanding, Rogovins seven-volume cycle is unique in the historiography of the rise of Stalin and Stalinism. For this reason, it has been passed over in near-total silence by academics. His research stands in opposition to that of a long list of scholars, who, from one vantage point or another, have alternately argued that the Trotsky-Stalin conflict was little more than a tempest in a teapot, that Stalinism was a manifestation of deep-seated sentiments within the Soviet masses, or that the real alternative to Stalin was not Trotsky and the Left Opposition but the right wing of the party grouped around Nikolai Bukharinor some combination of all three. Stalin hagiography and Trotsky hatred intermingle in all of this. There are many differences among them, but the work of scholars like Sheila Fitzpatrick, J. Arch Getty, Stephen F. Cohen, Stephen Kotkin, Robert Service, Ian Thatcher and others, share one trait: the refusal to recognize Trotsky and the Left Opposition as the socialist alternative to Stalinism, the embodiment of the revolutionary strivings of the working class and a political force whose victory was an objective possibility. Rogovin does not hide his political sympathies. He is forthright with his readers. His work achieves historical objectivity not by assuming a false pretense of indifference to the events under his review, but by revealing the social and class forces underlying the political conflicts raging within the Communist Party in the 1920s. The brutality of Stalinism was driven by the intensity and ferocity of the nationalist bureaucratic reaction to the working class and its revolutionary aspirations, its fight for human equality. Trotsky and the Left Opposition represented this class and its sentiments. For all the victims chewed up by the bureaucratic machine, they were always the main object of Stalinisms repressions. Rogovin is the only historian who has thoroughly understood this. The dominant trends of Russian and Soviet historiography of the past 40 years emerged in an epoch of political reaction. Rogovin wrote this work as the Communist Party was in the process of dissolving the USSR and stealing everything that was and was not nailed down. Grotesque celebrations of the alleged virtues of inequality as a new form of social justice filled the press, many penned by fellow Soviet intellectuals who anticipated they themselves would get more. Rogovins concentration on inequality and bureaucracy in the conflicts of the 1920s was as much an insight into the late Soviet present as it was the early Soviet past. In his Introduction, the author argues that incorrect notions of true factsthe tendentious over-emphasis and interpretation of certain historical facts and the suppression of othersare not so much the result of sincere error, as much as the conscious or unconscious fulfillment of political demands. Historical falsification, he insists, is an ideological weapon to deceive people in order to carry out reactionary policies. Thus, the restoration of capitalism in the Soviet Union by the Stalinists, with all the social destruction it wrought, demanded new lies and new distortions about the socialist opposition, about the differences between the revolutions progenitors and its butchers. Today, as social inequality reaches heights never before witnessed, new falsifications are appearing. In the United States, American history is being subjected to a racialist reinterpretation that denies class as the fundamental dividing line in society and rejects that there was anything progressive about the American Revolution and the Civil War. In Germany, the crimes of Hitler and the Nazis are being whitewashed, as far-right politics surge forward. In the Philippines, it is the crimes of Stalinism that are whitewashed to benefit a political elite yoked to American imperialism. One could go on. Political reaction cannot tolerate truth. The telling of lies about history is never an innocent mistake. Was There An Alternative? is not just a powerful recounting of the history of the struggle for socialism, it is a warning to the working class about the political intent of those who peddle historical lies and their consequences. The book can be ordered here from Mehring Books. Attend the next meeting of the Postal Workers Rank-and-File Committee on Sunday, September 24 at 7pm. Register here. Communication Workers Union (CWU) General Secretary Dave Wards interview on CWU Live was a fresh barrage of pro-company propaganda. The nearly hour-long event was an exercise in evasions and lies on behalf of the CWU bureaucracy, after it rammed through its sellout of the year-long struggle against Royal Mail (RM) this July. The interview went out under the radar on a Sunday morning on September 10. It was first posted on YouTube where the comments section was disabled. Rank-and-file opposition to the CWUs miserable betrayal has flooded its social media accounts for weeks, with the union frequently deleting its own members comments. Communication Workers Union General Secretary Dave Ward being interviewed on CWU Live [Photo: screenshot YouTube/CWU] Once Wards interview was posted on Facebook and X/Twitter, these feelings made themselves heard. One postal worker commented, Unbelievable workloads, offices crashing all over the UK, posties off sick (injuries & stress) & leaving in droves... GREAT DEAL you delivered us The Q&A session was led by Wards trusted sidekick Chris Webb, CWU Head of Communications. Even within the highly staged managed event, some recognition had to be made of the anger felt by members towards the CWU leadership. Webb noted criticism that members felt abandoned and were having lumps kicked out of them, with a period of silence from the union following the agreement. Ward added insult to injury, replying that it had been relentless for us [CWU officials] in terms of meetings with the company to try and get them to hold to the agreement. The CWU have not faced a reluctant management over their surrender terms, they have been 'relentlessly' implementing them together. In addition to the overhaul of sick pay, the raft of attacks which have started to come on stream include: a longer working week of 39 hours in the High Peak; the integration of a single parcel network, with transfer of work from Parcelforce to delivery offices already failing on letters; and the use of tracking technology (PDAs) to discipline and sack postal workers as workloads are driven up. Amazon-level exploitation is being overseen by CWU-RM Joint Working Groups, with the union bureaucracy completely integrated into management. After dismissing the conditions confronting postal workers, Ward moved on to the priority issuecompany financesusing hackneyed phrases about shared interests. He repeated claims that Royal Mail faced a difficult financial situation, while adding that discussions with the company require us to be a bit sensible about what we can say. This tight-lipped approach to the companys business secrets shows how the union bureaucracy is in the back pocket of the executives and major shareholders. At a meeting held earlier in the year with investors by International Distribution Services (IDS)the parent company of Royal Mailit was forecast that Royal Mail will return to profit over the next 12 months and into the future after reported losses for the year to May 2023 of 1 billion. The CWU was described as our union by company executives. The Business Recovery, Transformation and Growth (BRTG) Agreement and the ending of the Universal Service Obligation (USO) six-day letter delivery service were touted as the basis for further rich pickings. Ward promised he could be relied upon to face down postal workers opposition to a new looting of wealth. Referring to the 600 million paid to shareholders last year, he stated, they created the financial crisis when they gave all that money away but scolded workers, weve got to move on in our union, moving beyond blame and moaning about Royal Mail to find solutions for the company. The mantra of holding the company to the agreement Throughout the interview, Ward maintained that the main issue was to ensure Royal Mail was holding to the agreement. In fact, the BRTG agreement has been used as a springboard by Royal Mail to launch additional attacks inseparable from the brutal restructuring signed up to by the CWU. Ward offered only handwringing over the redeployment pool set up at mail centres to speed the jobs cull, but only from the standpoint that this undermined the headcount reduction already agreed by the CWUbehind the fig leaf of no compulsory redundancies. Not so much an inch, the company was given a mile, and has taken another. In any case, Ward promised nothing that went beyond more discussions with the company, while displaced workers are left to fend for themselves. Another example of what the CWU describes as unagreed change is the decision to reduce by half the opening hours of the 1,200 Customer Service Points nationally, as a step toward their final closure. Not a word on the subject from Ward. The CWU allowed the company to implement 10,000 job losses over the past year even as its members were still in dispute, with mandated strike action throttled after December. The BRTG agreement, based on a two-tier system with new entrants employed on inferior terms, has acted as a spur to drive out the existing workforce as part of a de facto fire-and-rehire policy. Ward welcomed the comments in support of the agreement by Mark Seidenberg, the recently installed chief executive of IDS. Underscoring how the bureaucracy views itself as a junior corporate partner, Wards most pressing concern was who Seidenberg would appoint as chief executive at Royal Mail to replace Simon Thompson. Ward also spoke about the need to look into Ofcom, but the CWU has partnered with the regulator in its current review of the USO aimed at providing a rationale for ending Saturday mail delivery by Royal Mail. For all of Wards company-speak about alternative ways to grow the business, and lip service paid to protecting a public service under the USO, he outlined nothing concrete. Whatever the CWU bureaucracy comes up with will serve as window dressing for Royal Mails brutal restructuring and run-down of the service in line with the BRTG agreement, based on cost reduction, productivity and increased competitiveness. Falsifying the CWUs record on privatisation and covering for Labours role Webb and Ward presented the Labour Party as an ally of postal workers, but recognised they were on thin ice. Webb referred to a potential Labour government as being more favourable to working people, with Ward adding, We would hope so. This political snow job required no small amount of evasive language by Ward on Labours role the in the privatisation of Royal Mail and the sabotage of any fight against it by the CWU bureaucracy. He squirmed, Yes the company has been privatised and it was our union that made sure at that point, when we were unable to stop it, as all political parties were saying something about Royal Mail being a basket case and being needed to be privatised, we got it in legislation that the USO is there. This is a whitewash. The Blair Labour government introduced legislation in January 2006 which prepared the ground for privatisation, carving-up the network for private sector vultures to cherry-pick the most profitable operations. When it came to the full privatisation of Royal Mail by the Conservative-Liberal Democrat government in 2013, the so-called opposition by the CWU bureaucracy rested solely on its commitment to drive up profits. CWU General Secretary Billy Hayes stated, Workers have embraced modernisation and helped increase profits by 60 percent. A strike over a three-year pay deal was blocked ahead of Royal Mails floatation on the stock market to ensure mass opposition from postal workers to the sell-off was sidelined. Since then, the CWU bureaucracy has been relied upon to strangle every national dispute and enforce pro-company deals based on sub-standard pay increases, reduced pensions and increased flexibility and productivity, making it a cash cow for the major shareholders which now control over 50 percent of the company. Ward spoke about having very good conversations with Labour about the future of Royal Mail none of which he cared to elaborate on. But everything postal workers need to know is shown by the public support Labour MP Darren Jones has provided for the BRTG agreement. The supposed saviour of postal workers has presented the sweatshop charter as a pro-worker deal. As point man for Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer with the CWU bureaucracy in its sellout of the struggle of Royal Mail workers, he has been rewarded with a senior post in the shadow cabinet of ultra-Blairites, assisting Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves programme of austerity, low taxes for the rich and nothing for public services. The CWU-Falconer Review conspiracy The update and insight by Ward on the Falconer Review into victimised CWU reps and workers was a travesty. Around five minutes was dedicated to the biggest frame-up in an industrial dispute in two generations, with around 400 sacked or suspended. Ward has already stated that only those directly related to the dispute would be reviewed, with just 200 cases referred to Falconer. Left, Lord Falconer of Thoroton. Right, CWU General Secretary Dave Ward. [Photo by Official portrait photo, UK Parliament / CC BY 3.0 Webb commented that it was coming up to a year for some reps and that there must be a couple of hundred workplaces that are missing their rep. But he tried to break apart what should be a united front of workers against the companys campaign of intimidation and bullying, saying there were going to be some cases where there will be some difficulties over misconduct and slashing the number of what he deemed worthy cases down to just dozens and dozens of people sacked, suspended or disciplined who have done nothing, or next to nothing. Ward stated that the union had prepared a substantial submission to connect the cases: we are opening up Lord Falconer to the reality that Royal Mail set up this Gold, Silver and Bronze Command. The idea that Lord Falconer would take the side of workers against an orchestrated management campaign of frame-ups against striking workers is an insult. The CWU has handed victimised workers over to the sole discretion of a trusted representative of the ruling class. His CV includes advising the National Coal Board during the 1984-5 miners strike. As a minister (later Lord Chancellor) in the Blair Labour government, he helped make the case for the illegal invasion of Iraq in 2003. It was quickly announced by Ward that the CWU had written to Falconer jointly with Royal Mail regarding an alternative approach which highlights how bad some of the cases are. He added, Id like to think now that Royal Mail will say weve got to get some of the people back to work. The Falconer Review is a stitch-up which the CWU bureaucracy cooked up at ACAS behind the backs of the membership. It is the spearhead of a campaign of management intimidation widely reported by postal workers but not mentioned even once by Ward. A fight must be organised against the lies and censorship of the CWU apparatus, its sweatshop charter with Royal Mail and for a mass campaign for the unconditional and immediate reinstatement of all framed-up postal workers. To discuss a strategy to take this forward, we encourage you to attend the next meeting of the Postal Workers Rank-and-File Committee on Sunday, September 24 at 7pm. Register here. On Thursday, the West Virginia University Board of Governors held a public hearing for faculty, staff and students to address the proposed cuts that the University is making to faculty and academic programs. The hearing itself was a formality for the predetermined conclusion which was finalized the following day. Hundreds of students, faculty, staff and alumni came and protested and voiced their opposition to the cuts. Dozens spoke during the hearing and hundreds more submitted letters and testimony against the cuts. The World Socialist Web Site spoke with students, faculty and staff both before and after the hearing as to why they opposed the cuts and what needed to be done to fight them. Rena, a student who is studying global supply chains, said, I see programs that I benefit a lot from, mainly the world language department, not being valued the way I see them to be valuable for my life and my career. To me this is a worrying move that is indicative of a larger trend in the country. Learning to write, learning to articulate yourself, learning foreign languages and learning about the broader worldthese are exactly the programs that we see at West Virginia University being sidelined, being cut out. It is almost like the foundations are being pulled from below education. I think we are going to see the repercussions of that for years to come. Im not behind those closed doors but theres a sense the drive to keep working people poor and to keep them out of education and to keep them on that lower level may have played a role in this. We are a land-grant institution. Our budget does come from decisions of this state legislative. There are a lot of poor kids who arent going to have access to an affordable liberal arts education, who arent going to be able to study a foreign language, to travel abroad, to bring Appalachian culture to the world or bring the worlds culture to Appalachia. Rena, a student at West Virginia University Treasure Barbara-Wycoff, an alum of WVU, a current graduate student and a current full-time staff member, addressed the BOG meeting and afterward spoke with the World Socialist Web Site about what the cuts will mean. Treasure explained that part of staff member benefits is a tuition waiver to attend graduate school. She pointed out that over 30 percent of students in the Higher Education Administration programs are people working in the University. By cutting these programs, the University is in effect cutting their pay. Treasure, a West Virginia University staff member and current graduate student Staff get the waivers as part of our compensation package for being an employee here. So, it feels like something that we have as part of our employment is being cut. Treasure also explained that the promise to allow current students to finish the program, called a teach-out by the administration, is very vague. She says that without new students, the programs will have only a limited number of classes and times. That does not ensure the same robust level of fulfilling classes will be at our disposal. Im ready to delve into the stuff that I really want to pursue as a higher education professional. She also expressed concern that the limited number of classes will mean that, as a full-time worker and part-time student, she will not fit the schedule or be able to get the courses in time to graduate. As someone who is a full-time staff member, I have a schedule issue. I have to be very mindful of my work schedule. This program was perfect for that. The teach-out also doesnt require that part-time students are factored in. As of right now, I dont know what that will look like. As far as I know, theyre not eliminating the tuition waivers, but effectively for me they are. If the program that Im pursuing is cut, its kind of like the tuition waiver dollars that I have already spent and plan to spend are evaporated. Treasure also sees these cuts are part of broader cuts to education both within West Virginia and throughout the country. I think that this moment is going to have ripple effects across universities across the country. If we look at the public schools, K through 12, theyre having to combat the Hope Scholarship [a programs that takes money from public schools and gives it to parents to use for home schooling or private schools] that is taking money from public education. So I think that in this state in particular, we have a big fight when it comes to public education, but thats public ed from K all the way up there to higher ed. Zach, a graduate student in the Department of Geology and Geography at West Virginia University, said: I am here because I believe that these cuts that we are fighting against are entirely unjustified. They violate the fundamental right to education at all levels, especially for the working class and for the people of Appalachia. My major is not affected. However, I would still argue that there are plenty of downstream effects. The research I do is directly related to the language capacities I was able to develop as an undergraduate. What were looking at will decimate the World Languages Department. A university thrives on diversity of backgrounds and experience. And we really depend on everything from abstract theoretical math to very concrete social sciences to the liberal arts. And wed like to say that every person should have the right to improve themselves as a human being and to be able to take whatever courses they find compelling. When youre seeing what few programs were implemented at the height of the COVID pandemic, that were intended to alleviate the condition for the working class, were seeing these expire. And were seeing an increase in childhood poverty in West Virginia, which is out of control. Were seeing slashes to what little healthcare was available to people and the working poor. I think that slashing the universitys budget is just part and parcel of the attack of what little there is left of the welfare state. Zach, a graduate student at West Virginia University Dylan, a third-year chemical engineering major, told the WSWS that he was upset by the way the BOG was ignoring the wishes of students and faculty and moving forward with the cuts. The reason Im here is the Board of Governors is starting to get tyrannical with its statements and what its doing. I mean the student body, the faculty, the alumni, the community, theyve all expressed how absolutely and staunchly [they are] against what theyre trying to impose. But the Board of Governors consistently does not listen. And its also consistently hypocritical. And its statements that come out saying that were misinformed, or we dont know whats happening, while also not being willing to tell us whats happening or give us any insight [or] information. As a chemical engineering major, I am pretty much never going to be affected by any kind of budget cuts whatsoever, because chemical engineering is just really profitable. But at the end of the day, Im a student of WVU so anything that happens to WVU happens to me, happens to my friends, happens to everybody. Everybody should care, you can be a business major, be an arts major, it doesnt matter, you should care. And even people that arent students here should care. If youre a West Virginia resident, this is like, one of the biggest things we have. This is like one big thing that we can be proud of as a West Virginia resident, and theyre stripping us of all of that. Dylan, a third-year chemical engineering major The WSWS asked both Dylan and Zach about the US funding for the military in general and the waging of a proxy war by the US against Russia. Theres just a never-ending list of countries that we continue to target as the United States, Zach responded. I think thats directly related to the underlying crisis. The state is propping up the economic system, and in doing so it is slashing social expenditures, propping up these failed businesses and simultaneously, we have a massive expansion of the industrial war-mongering complex. Im very much opposed to how much money the US government spends on defense in general, added Dylan. Our budget is still bigger than [the next 10 nations largest military] budgets put together. I just think thats absolutely horrible. When we have a homeless epidemic, we have drug epidemics, we have so much stuff that can be actually helped if we put that money into the community. Asked about the need for students to unite their struggle with the growing movement of workers both in the United States and throughout the world, Dylan said, I absolutely think thats the right idea. Because at the end of the day, no matter how much you ask the people in power to do things or beg and plead and donate money to them to try and get and do things. Its up to them. And theyre going to only care about whats in their interest because they want to stay in power. Thats what got them there in the first place. But if you go to the working class people, theyre going to fight for themselves. Theyre going to fight for the betterment of the working class. Because I feel like in the working class, theres a greater sense of unity than within the elites. So that absolutely makes sense you need to get to the working class, because they make everything turn in America. Zach concluded, I think that theres been a lot of interest in more industrial actions already by the students. With the rapid speed in which weve been responding to everything developing here, we havent really been able to do as many solidarity actions as I think many students would like. However, weve openly discussed things like Starbucks workers and the United Auto Workers. Weve been in touch with mineworkers here in West Virginia. Even the aesthetic of this movement harkens back to the miners battle of Blair Mountain. I would say, any kind of successful student struggle should embed itself with the working class with class struggle as front and center. I think that the downfall of a lot of the new left movements of the late 60s was because they were seemingly very distant from the reality of working class people. On Friday, the West Virginia University Board of Governors voted to approve draconian cuts to foreign languages and other programs at the university. The cuts first introduced by WVU President Gordon Gee will eliminate 169 full-time faculty positions, or 7 percent of the entire faculty, and 32 programs, or 9 percent of academic majors. At the Board of Governors meeting Friday, students who had come to protest the cuts were forcibly removed from the meeting by campus security. West Virginia University is the only R1 level research facility in the state, one of the poorest in the country. The cuts are directed primarily at liberal arts and humanities programs. Among those programs slashed, along with their respective instructors, are the Department of World Languages, Literature, and Linguistics. Instruction in Russian, French, German and many other languages will be eliminated. Only Spanish and Mandarin will be taught. Other programs that are being cut include: Creative Writing, Doctor of Music Arts in Composition, Masters of Music in Composition, Masters in Jazz Pedagogy, Masters in Higher Education Administration and Bachelors in Environmental and Community Planning. In all, 32 of 338 total academic majors offered at WVU are being eliminated. Of those 32, 12 are undergraduate programs, and 20 are graduate programs. The vote by the Board of Governors to approve the cuts came despite almost unanimous opposition from the student body and faculty, and marks a new stage in the assault on public education and the right to culture by the working class in the US and internationally. The week prior, a meeting of the faculty assembly voted by an 8-to-1 margin to call for a freeze in the cuts and voted by the same margin a vote of no confidence in President Gee. At a packed public hearing on Thursday, West Virginia students, faculty and alumni spoke out against the massive cuts. Billed as a public hearing called by the Board of Governors (BOG) to inform them of their vote, it was clear that its decision had already been made. The public meeting on Thursday where many students and faculty voiced their opposition to the cuts. The hearing itself was held in such a way as to limit as much as possible the input from students, staff and faculty. The day and time was chosen when most students and faculty were in class and the administration refused the request to suspend classes during the time to allow the community to take part. Scheduled to start at 10:30 a.m., the BOG first went into executive session for an hour, not opening the floor to speakers until 11:30 a.m. As its first order of business, the BOG limited speakers to just two minutes instead of the previously announced three, forcing most speakers to hastily cut their remarks. During the nearly three-hour meeting, not a single speaker spoke in favor of the cuts or in support of the Board of Governors and administration. One after another students and faculty protested the cuts and pleaded with university President Gee to change course and reconsider carrying out the sweeping attack on education. Prior to the hearing a crowd of students and faculty gathered outside the meeting hall. Once inside, many were carrying homemade signs with slogans such as: This is not the WVU I fell in love with, Gordon Greed, and Gee has got 2 go! The hearing was conducted in a 220-seat room with Gee and other Board of Governors members present. Several speakers mentioned that they felt disrespected because Gee and other administrators were fumbling with their phones and showing little interest in the pleas and protests of the speakers. The first speakers were Johanna Winant, Rose Casey and Jessica Wilkerson. Winant and Casey are both Assistant Professors of English, and Wilkerson is an Associate Professor of History. They each in turn read a portion of an open letter that was published in the Boston Review in which they explained the impact of the cuts and the importance of English and History. Johanna Winant, assistant professor of English at West Virginia University They explained: Were speaking outdespite pressure from the WVU administration to remain silentbecause were impelled by our responsibility as employees and stewards of this public university to safeguard its integrity and its future. With this letter, we join our colleagues decisive call for the Board to freeze the current proposal to shutter programs and lay off faculty and staff. The three went on to detail the enormous lack of funding that many departments already face, including the English Department not being able to give a course in Shakespeare; the Chemistry Department having to shield expensive lab equipment from leaking water and course funds not being made available to incoming instructors. But the 2023 cuts go far beyond short-term frugality and will decimate WVU for decades to come. If the rest of these cuts go through, students will no longer be able to take even a single course in many world languages, including Russian, Arabic, French, German and Italian; music courses, including piano performance and jazz; public administration; graduate-level math; arts programs, including ceramics, printmaking, and sculpture; parks, recreation, and tourism; or graduate-level study of higher education administration. Across almost all departments and programs, the variety and quality of courses on offer will decrease because faculty positions will be cut and class sizes increased. They warned: Our university risks being so hollowed out that students will not have the ability to do what is most enriching about college and what defined so many of our own experiences: explore disciplines or take a class for the sake of curiosity, not solely as a means to a vocational end. WVU will be left a Potemkin university; a false front; a gutted shell. Brian Powel, a teaching Assistant Professor in the Lane Department of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, spoke on the impact of cutting seven full-time faculty from their department of 35. Brian Powell, assistant professor in the Lane Department of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering The Lane Department already faces challenges from limited staff in many of our programs, Powell told the board. ABET accreditors have told us we do not have enough faculty for computer engineering. For computer science, we struggle to provide sufficient seats to meet demand. There are a number of new courses we would like to add for in-demand topics like cloud computing that we have not been able to implement because we struggle to staff those courses we already have. Further reductions in faculty will harm our ability to serve our students and our states high-tech industries. Torli Bush spoke in support of the Master of Fine Arts Creative Writing program within the English Department. I was raised in Webster County, and Im a 2017 graduate of the Mechanical Engineering program here at WVU. Torli went on to receive his MFA in Creative Writing from West Virginia Wesleyan College. Torli Bush, speaking in defense of the Master of Fine Arts Creative Writing program Torli explained the importance of writing and communication, especially in our current political climate. During my time in creative writing courses at WVU, I was exposed to a new way of thinking and processing that STEM cannot fully lend itself to: to see the power of other peoples stories, hear and read Appalachian voices and be taken in by the truths of what they wrote, and have open discussions on the interpretations of both course readings and our own writings. These are elements that need to be fostered, particularly in our political and social age, not retracted. Miles Case explained that as a child he came to this school with his father, who was in the Law program and that he himself is now a student. This school means a lot to me. You can only imagine the anger and frustration that I felt when this administration and the school that I worked to get to for years gutting, eviscerating and dismantling our academic institution. The administration loves to claim that only 2 percent of the students will be affected, and that number has somehow gone down to 1 percent. He continued to point out that these numbers are incorrect. By blatantly misleading the public, disregarding student protests, a vote of no confidence and the voices of the community, you have done nothing except to draw the eyes of the entire country on us. Miles concluded his remarks by referring to a speech by President Gee in March of this year when he said that higher education was under attack. He added, What you forgot to say was you were the one attacking it. Matthew Kolb, a senior undergraduate Math major, spoke on the explosion of student protest over these cuts. Everyone knows there is something going on here and that [the students] dont support these recommendations. Matthew Kolb, a senior undergraduate math major We care, we care a lot. We care so much that we are doing things that I havent seen at WVU at my time here, that faculty havent seen at their time here. Were doing things that might make history. People are looking forward to what we can accomplish. In all, dozens of faculty, staff, students and alumni spoke during the hearing. Not a signal person spoke in support of the drastic cuts to faculty and programs, which the Board of Governors voted to implement the next day. The fact that the administration blatantly disregarded the mass opposition among students and faculty underscores the fact that in order to carry forward their struggle against this attack on their right to culture and education, a new perspective and program are needed. We urge students and workers who want to discuss the way forward to reach out to the World Socialist Web Site and the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) today. A ten-day pseudo-left speaking tour within the US, which attempted to mobilize support for the US-NATO war against Russia, concluded last Wednesday with an event at the University of California, Berkeley. Outside of a narrow middle-class and academic milieu that already back the war, the tour failed to shore up support for the war among wider layers of students and young people, despite being heavily promoted. The speaking tour was conducted under the headline, Resisting Russian Imperialism: Ukraines Struggle for Self-Determination. The four featured speakers were Denys Bondar and Hanna Perekhoda, both members of the Ukrainian Sotsialnyi Rukh (Social Movement), a front group with ties to the Central Intelligence Agency, together with Ilya Budraitskis and Ilya Matveev, both leading figures of the Pabloite Russian Socialist Movement (RSM). Hanna Perekhoda and Ilya Budraitskis speaking on Democracy Now!, September 7, 2023 This speaking tour constituted the left flank of efforts to drum up support for the war by saturating the American public with war propaganda, particularly amidst the bloody failure of Ukraines months-long counteroffensive, which saw the slaughter of tens of thousands of conscripts with no substantial military gains. In this sense, the speaking tour was designed to complement the work of the more mainstream outlets for war propaganda, like the New York Times, by making appeals to students and young people specially couched in left, socialist, and even Marxist language. The tour, which began at the Socialism 2023 conference and had two other stops in Chicago and New York City, concluded with the Berkeley event on September 13, where Matveev and Perekhoda appeared on a panel together. Despite being held at one of the most politicized campuses in the country, the gathering attracted only about 50 of what might be called the usual suspects, including at least one union official as well as members of several pseudo-left groups active in the area. Relatively few students attended, and in the audience, those appearing to be over the age of 65 predominated. In terms of its content, the event was indistinguishable from a press conference at the Pentagon. There was hardly anything said that could be described as in any way left-wing, let alone socialist. In so many words, the speakers demanded that the audience accept that American imperialismafter rampaging through Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, Libya, Vietnam, and elsewherehad been magically transformed into a benevolent force in the case of Ukraine. Moderator Blanca Misse, a California Faculty Association union official, set the tone for the event by announcing at the outset that it was designated as a safe space for the panelists. Matveev spoke first, giving what purported to be a historical background to the war in Ukraine. This 20-minute timeline consisted of various examples of alleged Russian imperialism and meddling in Ukraine from 1994 to the present. In this narrative, as he called it, the actual record of US imperialism and its meddling in Ukraine, including in the 2014 coup, were simply erased. While he invoked Russian imperialism repeatedly, he made no substantial attempt to justify his use of this phrase. Notably, the entire history of the Russian Revolution and the formation and subsequent liquidation of the Soviet Unioni.e., the essential history of working-class and left-wing struggle in both Russia and Ukrainewas missing from his background to the war. History began instead in 1994, with the Budapest Memorandum, in which Ukraine relinquished its nuclear weapons. The unstated implication of choosing this starting point was that this was a mistake, and the Ukraine regime presumably should be, in his view, once again armed with nuclear weapons. The joint struggle of the Ukrainian and Russian masses against fascism during the Second World War was also erased from the narrative. While Matveev emphasized the role of the far-right in Russia, his background erased the role of the Ukrainian far-right entirely, both historically and in the present. In the course of presenting his timeline, Matveev claimed that US President Barack Obama had failed to provide lethal aid to Ukraine out of fear of provoking Russia, while Donald Trump had provided a minimal amount but with onerous conditions attached. With these arguments, Matveev established himself as a critic of American imperialism from the right, i.e., on the grounds that for years it had failed to be lethal enough in waging war against Russia. Perekhodas report consisted of taking Pentagon talking points and translating them into the pseudo-left language of social justice and postmodern identity politicsinvoking feminism, LGBT rights, and even trade union solidarity. Perekhoda referenced, for example, a petition last year in Ukraine in favor of recognizing same-sex marriage, which gathered 28,000 signatures but produced no results from the Zelensky regime. She pointed to this petition as evidence of the progressive character of the Ukrainian struggle, as against the obscurantist and homophobic Russian imperialist elites. According to Perekhoda, the allegedly democratic and progressive character of the Ukrainian struggle justified, in turn, accepting tens of billions of dollars of weapons, military training, and oversight from the Pentagon. A major theme that emerged at the Berkeley event was an attack on that section of the left that has refused to sign up for the war. In this context, this means above all the principled socialist and internationalist position advanced on the World Socialist Web Site and by the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE), the youth and student movement of the International Committee of the Fourth International. Perekhoda, in particular, attacked those sections of the left in the US that are opposed, in principle, to the military-industrial complex. She also attacked proponents of peace negotiations, which she said would only benefit Russia. At Berkeley, Perekhoda and Matveev both took for granted, without bothering to present any evidence or argument, that Ukraine is a democracy. In reality, Ukraine is governed by a corrupt and criminal oligarchy that is a mirror image of the Putin regime. In Ukraine at present, as in Russia, all opposition to the war is banned and hundreds of thousands of workers and youth have been forcibly conscripted into the military. The term self-determination, which appears in the title of the event, turns reality on its head. The war has in fact transformed Ukraine into a vast prison for prospective NATO recruits, from which men of fighting age are legally prohibited from leaving. Far from liberation, the war has resulted in the total prostration and subjugation of Ukraine to imperialism. It was particularly telling that, in line with the American government and media, the panelists devoted no significant attention toand essentially covered upthe horrific death toll of the war. The vast scale of the suffering and the hundreds of thousands of dead on both sides are concealed because these facts naturally evoke anti-war sentiments among workers and young people, which would run counter to the central demand of the speaking tour: more weapons. A mood of cynicism pervaded the meeting. In one exchange, Perekhoda remarked contemptuously that it does not matter what leftists in the US do, since it is not like they are going to change the policy of the US government anyway. This drew a murmur of laughter from the assembled audience. Similarly, Matveev commented at one point with a shrug, There is no alternative. The speakers at Berkeley, remarkably, made no substantial attempt to address themselves at any point to the conditions facing students or the working class in general in the US. Instead, any dissent from the pro-war line was simply attacked and ridiculed as egocentric and privileged, as an illegitimate attempt to deny the lived experience of Ukrainians, and as spreading pro-Putin propaganda. Behind their lies and enthusiasm for the war lie fundamental class interests. Perekhoda, Matveev, Budraitskis and Bondar speak for sections of the middle class in Ukraine and Russia that see the war as an opportunity to advance their careers, and to secure comfortable incomes and privileged positions for themselves by aligning with US imperialism. They do not speak for the working class in the Ukraine or Russia or anywhere else. This pro-war tour was promoted by a number of nominally left outlets, including the Democracy Now! program, and the Tempest Magazine, which is affiliated with the Democratic Socialists of America, itself a pseudo-left faction of the Democratic Party. Matveev and Budraitskis have also been published in Jacobin, the main outlet of the DSA. The pseudo-left in the US, for its part, has a long tradition of lining up behind imperialist military violence, particularly in the wake of the liquidation of the USSR. This includes, in particular, their discovery of humanitarian reasons to support the NATO bombing of the former Yugoslavia. Similarly, much of the pseudo-left and ex-left in the US supported the invasion and occupation of Afghanistan on the grounds of womens liberation, discovered that the CIA-backed Islamist rebels in Syria were freedom fighters, and will doubtless line up for a future war against China on the grounds of the struggle to liberate Taiwan from totalitarianism and to protect the Uyghurs. Against this background, the most remarkable aspect of this tour is that it failed to attract any significant popular support, especially on campuses. In contrast to the speakers bloodthirsty clamor for more weapons for Ukraine, in the broader population there are growing anti-war moods as well as skepticism about the official propaganda. While Matveev and Perekhoda seek to cover up the criminal record of US imperialism, the past thirty years of unending war with their millions of dead have had a far-reaching effect on popular consciousness. In addition to endless wars abroad, students in the US are confronted with a society in which basic social infrastructure is collapsing in their own cities and hometowns, a climate catastrophe and ongoing pandemic are unfolding, and they are menaced by the violent resurgence of the far-rightmanifesting in the epidemic of police brutality, the fascistic transformation of the Republican Party and Trumps coup attempt on January 6, 2021. To the extent that the purpose of the speaking tour was to undermine genuine socialist opposition to the war and bolster the official war propaganda, it can be characterized as a fiasco. Scarcely anybody was convinced who were not already convinced. Instead of shoring up support for the war, it exposed the growing gulf between the increasingly isolated pro-war middle-class pseudo-left and the broad mass of leftward-moving students, workers, and young people. Toledo Jeep workers (WSWS) Sign up for text message updates on the Detroit Big Three contract fight by texting AUTO to (866) 847-1086. Fill out the form at the bottom of the article to join the Autoworkers Rank-and-File Network. There is growing opposition among rank-and-file workers to the limited strike policy of the United Auto Workers. Workers are calling for an industry-wide strike by all 150,000 GM, Ford and Stellantis workers. After the national labor agreements expired last Friday, UAW President Shawn Fain called out workers at two-and-a-half plants: the Stellantis Toledo Jeep Complex, GMs Wentzville plant near St. Louis and final assembly and paint departments at Fords Michigan Assembly Plant in suburban Detroit. The CEOs are demonstrating their arrogance and greed for the whole world to see, a Toledo Jeep worker told the WSWS. But calling out less than 10 percent of rank-and-file workers is allowing them to continue making money. There is widespread frustration at the facilities still working because those workers were part of the 97 percent of the members who voted to strike. At the same time, this stand up strike has handed power to management to fire anyone for any reason because there are virtually no protections under an expired contract. Every rank-and-file worker in these plants has a target on their back because management wants to fire the highest paid and fill their plants with temporary workers $16 an hour. This moment in history is the most opportune in decades to make our demands known to both the Big Three and the UAW bureaucracies, the Jeep worker said. We need to inform the rank and file about whats going on, connect with them on the local, regional and international level, and stand up in an all-out strike to show them how powerful we are. A third generation autoworker at the GM Flint Assembly plant said, Fain compared his bottleneck strike to the Flint sit-down strike in the 1930s, which is an insult because the sit-downers stopped all production and took hold of GMs private property. They brought GM to its knees and gave birth to the UAW. This dumb strike strategy intentionally divides us and weakens our power. We dont need the UAW bureaucracy to tell us when to go on strike and certainly not when to come back from strike. The rank and file has to decide that. We need to strike together and not stop until we get what we deserve. GM CEO Mary Barra made $28.9 million in 2022 which is 630 times what an average autoworker earns. All her profits are generated by us. But she says if she complies with our demands, the company will go bankrupt. It is time for us to take a stand and win. Everyone should go out, a Ford Chicago Assembly worker said, voicing support for an industry-wide strike. Not just one. Stand out there with your brothers and sisters. Were all one. We all want equal rights, so, equal fight. One of the more than 500 workers at the Clarios battery plant in Toledo, Ohio, whose 40-day strike was betrayed by the UAW bureaucracy added, Whats the point of only calling out 5-10 percent of the workforce? Far from this being a historic strike, it is one of the lamest actions in history. It isnt putting any pressure on the companies. Fain is looking out for the corporations, not the members. There has to be an all-out strike. Wall Street has largely shrugged off the UAWs ineffective action, with the auto companies stocks rising after the strike began Friday. Analysts are saying that the companies stockpiled large numbers of vehicles from the plants now being struck. On Sunday, Reuters reported that a strike could actually help GM address ongoing technical and operational issues in its electric vehicle and battery operations. A production stoppage could allow GM to solve bottlenecks, Sam Fiorani, vice president of global vehicle forecasting at AutoForecast Solutions, told the news agency. GM could ramp up output faster once the factories start running again. The corporations have used the isolated strikes to go on the offensive. On Friday, Ford said that, as a result of the partial strike at Michigan Assembly, it was temporarily laying off 600 workers at the rest of the plant. GM also warned that it would likely halt production at its Fairfax Assembly Plant in Kansas because the Wentzville work stoppage will lead to a shortage of parts at Fairfax. Under the expired contracts, these workers will not get supplementary unemployment benefits and will likely not receive state jobless benefits since the layoffs are due to a work stoppage. Fain said these workers would not go without an income, although the UAWs paltry weekly strike pay of $500 a week will do little to offset the loss of their jobs. While Fain has threatened to expand the number of plants on strike, he dodged a question about amping up the strike during an appearance on CBS-TVs Face the Nation Sunday, saying only, Were prepared to do what whatever we have to do. While Fain claimed that Stellantis 21 percent pay offer over four years was a no-go, the UAW said on Saturday that negotiations were reasonably productive. But it has provided workers with no details on what workers demands the UAW has already abandoned. Most significantly, Fain once again downplayed the massive job-cutting plans the automakers were preparing as they convert to electric vehicle production. Asked by host Margaret Brennan to comment on the Ford CEOs claim that EVs would require 40 percent fewer workers, Fain repeated his mantra about needing a just transition to EVs and insisting that labor cannot be left behind. In fact, the UAW has already agreed to the destruction of tens, if not hundreds of thousands of autoworkers jobs. It is only seeking a deal that will allow the UAW apparatus to preserve its financial and institutional interests, including being able to collect dues from the workers in the new EV plants who are going to be making poverty wages. The Biden administration has announced that it is sending Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su and senior adviser Gene Sperling to Detroit early this week to offer their full support for a deal to end the strike. Keenly aware of the widespread opposition to Bidenwho last year oversaw the outlawing of the strike by railroad workers and the imposition of a pro-company contractFain tried to deny that the White House was intervening in the contract battle. But the White House officials are not coming to Detroit to go to the auto show. In fact, Fain has been in regular contact with the White House, not over the terms of the new contractwhich has already been agreed tobut on how to overcome the resistance of the rank and file. As former UAW President Bob King told a local Detroit news outlet on the eve of the contract expirations last week, Fain has said over and over again, he doesnt want a strike, he wants a settlement. But you know he can get a settlement and go to the membership, but if it doesnt get ratified, what good is that? The bogus strike strategy is aimed at dividing rank-and-file workers, opening workers up to victimization and breaking their collective resistance. This is the plan of the auto companies, the Biden administration, the UAW apparatus and their pseudo-left publicity agents in the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). But rank-and-file workers are developing their own strategy. On Sunday night, auto and auto parts workers in the US, Mexico and other countries attended the forum sponsored by the Autoworkers Rank-and-File Committees Network. Workers discussed the statement, Unite the rank and file for an all-out autoworkers strike! issued Saturday by Will Lehman, the Pennsylvania Mack Trucks worker who ran as a socialist candidate for UAW president last year. For there to be an all-out strikewhich is what workers wantthe rank and file ourselves will have to organize and prepare it, Lehman said, calling on workers to form rank-and-file committees in every factory, elect leaders from the shop floor, and communicate with each other on the line, during breaks and after work. These committees will provide a means for workers to communicate with each other and share information, information which is being kept from us by the bureaucracy. They will provide a mechanism for us to link up across different plants and different companies, through the Autoworkers Rank-and-File Committee Network. They will also provide a way for us to unite with our brothers and sisters in Mexico, Canada and other countries, through the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees. Part of the Yes vote rally in Melbourne, September 17, 2023. Tens of thousands of people across Australia took part in official rallies over the weekend supporting a Yes vote in the October 14 referendum on enshrining an indigenous Voice in the Australian Constitution. Establishing the advisory body to parliament is a central policy of the federal Labor government, designed to put a progressive veneer on an administration committed to a deeply unpopular program of escalating militarism and austerity. The largest event was in Melbourne, where roughly 30,000 took part. Some 15,000 turned out in Sydney, while rallies in other capital cities and some regional centres were attended by thousands more. The attendance was not insignificant, but given that the Yes campaign is backed by a majority of official institutions, from the state and federal Labor governments to the sporting codes, many corporations and the trade unions, the rallies were not massive either. Because of their state-sanctioned character and explicit support for the government, even the term protests would be something of a misnomer. Unquestionably, the bulk of those who participated were motivated by a sincere concern over the plight of indigenous people, the overwhelming majority of whom still confront an appalling social crisis on every front, but the sentiments were generally of a vague character. The Voice might make things better, couldnt make things worse and was worth trying were fairly typical comments from attendees. A section of the Yes march in Sydney, September 17, 2023. [Photo: Facebook] Intense discussion on the historical origins of the oppression of Indigenous people, its relationship to the broader political situation and, above all, to the deepening social crisis confronting the entire working class, was absent. The atmosphere was festive, bordering on apolitical. These were, however, political events. Their character, and to a certain extent the composition of the crowds themselves, pointed to the establishment character of the Yes campaign and indicated why it is in a deepening crisis. Two key demographics were largely absent. Very few young people took part, despite polling indicating they are the constituency most likely to vote in favour of the Voice out of a concern for Aboriginal rights, and most strikingly, attendance from indigenous people was also very low. That led to an obvious irony. At events calling for an Indigenous Voice to parliament, the voices of Aboriginal people, especially the most oppressed and exploited, were largely absent. The demographics of the rallies spoke louder than the frequent assertions of speakers that the Voice was an idea that had somehow emanated from all indigenous people. At large events, there are always exceptions to the rule and people in attendance for different reasons. This is all the more so given the vaguely-defined character of the Voice itself and a broad-based sentiment that something must be done to alleviate the horrific social plight of indigenous people. But the dominant constituency was made up of well-meaning, but often quite complacent layers of the middle-class and older people who warmly received speeches by ministers in the Labor government and other representatives of big business. That is entirely in keeping with the character of the Voice as a top-down initiative, birthed in the corridors of power. Its purpose has always been to divide the working class along racial lines, elevate a privileged indigenous layer into government and corporate structures, and revamp Australian nationalism, including to aid the preparations for war with China. As if to drive home the point, the first speaker from a political party in Sydney was New South Wales Labor Premier Chris Minns. The MC noted that it was his birthday and requested that attendees sing him Happy Birthday before his remarks. New South Wales Labor Party Premier Chris Minns speaking at Yes vote rally in Redfern Park, Sydney, September 17, 2023. [Photo: Chris Minns Facebook] Minns has spent his decades-long career in Labors most openly right-wing faction. He is a champion of the unfettered free market, including privatisation, and his recently installed government has seamlessly continued the wage-cutting and let it rip COVID policies of its conservative predecessor. The Labor premier declared that the Voice would make Australia an even better country. It was, he said, a safe, reliable change in our Constitution. It would not override the supremacy of the House of Representatives and the Senate, sideline our parliamentary democracy, or jeopardise this wonderful country thats been built in these lands. It would merely make Australia somewhat fairer, though Minns did not say how. His remarks summed up the essentially right-wing character of the Voice, premised on a complete endorsement of the anti-democratic and reactionary 1901 Constitution, Australian nationalism and endorsement of the status quo. It is a line that is a million miles from the working class, Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal, which is confronting the worst cost of living in decades, soaring rental and housing expenses and an offensive against wages and conditions presided over by Labor and the corporatised trade unions. Tanya Plibersek, a prominent federal Labor MP, gave a demagogic speech. She declared that the Voice was part of a protracted struggle for Aboriginal self-government. Plibersek noted that the rally was taking place in Redfern Park, where then Labor Prime Minister Paul Keating made a speech on Aboriginal rights in 1992. She made no explanation as to why the situation for ordinary indigenous people has not only failed to improve, but has even worsened in the three decades since. Plibersek was also a leading figure in the last Labor government that continued the Northern Territory intervention, a brutal police-military occupation of Aboriginal areas accompanied by welfare quarantining and other punitive attacks. Plibersek held up Redfern, which historically had a large Aboriginal population, as a model to be emulated elsewhere. Most impoverished Aborigines, however, have been driven out of the inner-city suburb. A key turning point was the shutdown of the block, an area with a concentration of indigenous housing. Its residents were moved out by the Aboriginal Housing Corporation, which struck a deal with property developers to build mostly private apartments. Just down the street from Redfern Park, in the neighbouring suburb of Waterloo, the Minns government is proceeding with plans to demolish much of the remaining public housing, also to the benefit of one of Labors main constituencies, the property developers. Part of the Yes vote march in Sydney, September 17, 2023. At the Sydney rally, the organisers made a point of stressing cross partisanship for the Voice. Greens MP Sarah Hanson-Young expressed her support, underscoring the Greens backing for the right-wing Labor government. NSW Liberal parliamentarian Jacqui Munro was also given a platform. Her speech paralleled that of Minns, stressing the responsible and modest character of the Voice proposal, i.e., its essentially conservative character. The comments pointed to an obvious contradiction in the Yes campaign. Its proponents alternate between assurances that the advisory body will not challenge the status quo in the slightest and vague assertions that it will vastly improve the social plight of ordinary indigenous people. Of course, the establishment of yet another advisory body, composed of elite layers of the indigenous population and wholly beholden to parliament, will resolve nothing, as all past experience shows. The Yes campaign has been compelled to make a highly-limited and vague pitch on the social crisis, very late in the referendum, to try to reverse a crisis that is evident in all polling. The official No camp is dominated by the Liberal-National Coalition and its leader, Peter Dutton. It is based on right-wing and at times racist dog whistling, as well as the same reverence for the reactionary Constitution that characterises the official Yes camp. That underscores the crucial importance of the campaign for an active boycott of the referendum that has been launched by the Socialist Equality Party. It is the only vehicle in the referendum for workers to take an independent stand, in opposition to the racialism of the Yes and No camps. It points the way forward, beyond the referendum: the urgent need for an independent movement of the entire working class, directed against the whole political establishment and its program of war and austerity. Note: Under conditions of compulsory voting, which makes it a crime to urge a boycott of the vote itself, the SEP calls on workers and youth to register their opposition by casting informal ballots and join our active boycott campaign in the lead-up to October 14, that goes well beyond the individual act of voting. Authorised by Cheryl Crisp for the Socialist Equality Party, Suite 906, 185 Elizabeth Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000 On September 14 and 15, members of the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) at Humboldt University in Berlin spoke to students and passersby about the Russian War Crimes exhibition, which was displayed in the foyer of the universitys main building for two weeks. The exhibition has no scholarly value, but serves to demonize the Russian side and fuel the horrific proxy war in Ukraine with further arms deliveries. The leaflet distributed by IYSSE members explained that the exhibition was intended to counter the decreasing support for arms deliveries in order to deliver more and much faster weapons to the Ukrainian military. Humboldt University President Julia von Blumenthal, a former professor for the German armed forces, and Ukrainian multi-billionaire Viktor Pinchuk, who is funding the exhibition, had stated this at the opening. Pinchuk is considered Ukraines second-richest oligarch, who gained his wealth through the privatization of state property and is well-connected with Western elites. The IYSSE warned that after its crimes in two world wars, German militarism is again preparing to bring Ukraine under its control in order to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia. To achieve these goals, the German elites also willingly accept the risk of nuclear war. After HU professors such as Jorg Baberowski and Herfried Munkler played a central role in ideologically preparing this policy for years, Humboldt University, as an institution, is openly placing itself at the service of German war policy with this exhibition. Students who spoke to IYSSE members were shocked and outraged when they learned about the background of the exhibition. Many expressed gratitude for the IYSSEs information about and criticism of the exhibition, including an elderly passerby who stated, Imagine its war and nobody goesthats my attitude. One student also expressed dismay that the exhibition was set up in the entrance area of the university, where every freshman has to go through and where its the first thing you see at this university. A university employee approached IYSSE members to tell them that he agreed with every word in the flyer. He warned that the university administration might try to ban the flyers, even though the IYSSE have been represented in the Student Parliament for many years. If you Google the pictures, every third one of them is fake, he surmised. The IYSSE members explained that the images had been closely coordinated with the Ukrainian military and were intended to support the German governments pro-war policy. In conversation with IYSSE members, many other students criticized German rearmament and the pro-war policies of the imperialist NATO powers. One student said, I think the interests of the arms lobby are already a major factor in this war. Further arms deliveries make it difficult to end the war. It is also about how much power we Germans have in Ukraine. Because it exerts power if you are able to control the arms deliveriesafterwards Ukraine then depends on Germany. The money that is being cut now is missing from us and is now all going into rearmament. I cant understand that. The US government also supports the Ukrainian military, said Christine, a masters student from the United States. Without that support, the Ukrainian government would have ceased to exist a long time ago. But I think its problematic if Germany takes the lead now. Its certainly not in the interest of the working class in Europe. I would rather Germany invest its resources in international cooperation. I am originally from Taiwan, and a war is brewing there as well. An international grassroots movement is the only way. I cant think of any other way to stop another world war. Alex, who was visiting the university library, is from Spain and has only been working as an analyst in Berlin for a few days. He said, I question German intentions in Ukraine. I think this war is about political and territorial interests, including against Russia. There are other ways to help the Ukrainian people. The government should not send weapons, but people who can actually help on the ground. Alex added, I am against any military buildup. There are so many more important things: health, education and social welfare. Its always the working class that gets punished for war, whether its in Ukraine, Russia or here. War affects prices and the labor market. Those who are most vulnerable are the most affected because they are the most dependent on social welfare. When you use tax money to fund the military, these people have no resources left. Omar, a Humboldt University student from the US, said, This war has to be stopped, its all about money. Capitalism is behind the war. In the US there is a whole ecosystem of arms corporations and Pentagon contractors that profit from human suffering. This system needs to be dismantled. It is obscene how much money goes to the war machinethe money should be invested in social projects instead. I agree with your struggle, but it will be an uphill battle. Rich people have always benefited from war throughout history. The UAW held a rally in downtown Detroit on Friday afternoon aimed at promoting the unions non-striking Stand-up Strike that is keeping 90 percent of autoworkers on the job after the expiration of the Big Three contracts at midnight September 14. Bernie Sanders speaks at Detroit rally [WSWS] UAW President Shawn Fain was joined on the platform by leading Democratic Party officialsMichigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, US Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont and US Representatives from Michigan Debbie Dingell, Haley Stevens and Rashida Tlaibfor the purpose of diverting attention away from the growing demands of the rank and file for a unified strike against GM, Ford and Stellantis by all 150,000 autoworkers. The UAW rally also concealed from autoworkers the fact that the Fain leadership is coordinating its auto contract strategy with the Biden administration. Although this was not referred to during the rally, it was made evident by President Biden on Friday, when he announced the deployment of Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su and White House adviser Gene Sperling to Detroit to offer their full support for the parties in reaching their contract. Biden also said, Lets be clear. No one wants a strike. Ill say it again, no one wants a strike. The Save the American Dream rally was a media event. It generated the necessary sound bites and fist pumping photo ops for Fain and the Democrats to posturewith the assistance of the corporate mediaas opponents of auto company profits and masquerade as fighters for workers interests. However, the relatively small crowd did not include many autoworkers. It was mostly made up of UAW bureaucrats, Democratic Party staffers and their middle class supporters among the pseudo-left political tendencies such as the Democratic Socialists of America. The location and timing of the rally was also significant. It was held near the entrance to the Detroit Auto Show at Huntington Place, which opened to the public on Wednesday. Beginning at 5:00 p.m., the rally coincided with the annual charity preview as the auto industry elite were arriving in their limos, tuxedos and gowns and they had to walk past rallys stage to enter the venue. Even more significantly, the rally was held in front of the UAW-Ford Joint Trusts Center, the building that houses the corporatist labor-management schemes through which Ford management funnels money to the UAW bureaucracy. Governor Whitmer spoke first and said nothing about the conditions facing autoworkers or the present contract fight. Instead, she used the rally to promote a bogus claim that she is dedicated to building a brighter future where every person has a path to prosperity. Whitmer made these claims just as census data released last week showed median household income in Michigan declined in 2022 and poverty rates in working class communities such as Detroit and Flint have skyrocketed. Fain speaks at rally in front of UAW-Ford Joint Trusts Center [WSWS} Clearly returning a favor to the UAW bureaucracy for endorsing her in the 2018 and 2022 Michigan gubernatorial elections, Whitmer concluded her one-and-a-half minute remarks with, I am here with you, my brothers and sisters of the UAW. Shawn Fain then introduced Bernie Sanders as one of the best warriors against the corporate class, the billionaire class. Sanders speech highlighted the fact that the message of the rally was not aimed at autoworkers, but at the corporate and financial elite. Sanders began by addressing himself to the UAW bureaucracy, saying, The fight you are waging here is a fight to take on corporate greed and tell the people on top, this country belongs to all of us, not just a few. As he has done repeatedly for more than a decade, Sanders railed against the redistribution of wealth upward into the pockets of the billionaires without ever using the word capitalism. At the same time, aware that the growing rebellion of autoworkers against the treachery of the UAW bureaucracy could spiral out of control, Sanders also appealed to the ruling class to recognize that the union apparatus is a vital tool for the maintenance of the capitalist system. Sanders said he wanted to say a word to the CEOs of GM, Ford and Stellantis: It is time for you to end your greed it is time to sit down and negotiate a fair contract. Of course, Sanders did not spell out precisely what would be in a fair contract. This is because if he were to do that, he would have to expose the fact that the agreement being negotiated behind the backs of autoworkers contains massive concessions on their wage and benefit demands and conceals from them the coming jobs massacre in the transition to EV auto production. Sanders, the self-proclaimed Democratic Socialist, spoke for 20 minutes and readily admitted that what the UAW is fighting for is not radical. He added, It is totally reasonable for autoworkers to finally receive a fair share of the record-breaking profits that their labor has produced and called for an end to tiered wages and temporary employees at the Big Three. However, Sanders also covered up the fact that the conditions facing auto workers today are the direct result of decades of betrayals by Solidarity House and that the union apparatus has integrated itself into the structure of corporate management and the US government. The other speakersDingell, Stevens and Tlaiball gave short expletive-laced speeches and referred to the horrendous conditions facing workers in the auto plants since the government bailout of 20082009, while covering up the role of the UAW in implementing the contracts that cut wages in half and laid the foundation for the greatest boom in auto profits in decades. Stevens, who was the Obama administrations auto bailout chief of staff when the UAW agreed to temporary employees and the tiered wages system, boasted about the fact that she rode to the rally in a bus full of union bureaucrats from the offices of UAW Region 1 in Warren, Michigan. This town is where the Stellantis Warren Truck Assembly and Stellantis Warren Stamping plants are continuing to work while the Stellantis workers at Toledo Assembly are on the picket lines. UAW President Fain was the final speaker at the Friday rally. He boasted about the 13,000 autoworkers who were on strike, without mentioning that he told the rest of the UAW membership to stay on the job, essentially scabbing on their own brothers and sisters. Riffing off the phony anger of the prior speakers, Fain referred to the working class several times and said, the corporate media is scared, the billionaire class is scared and the Big Three is scared. A sure sign that a betrayal of autoworkers is well-underway behind closed doors, Fain shouted the stand up slogan multiple times but did not say anything about what being discussed in the ongoing negotiations with the auto companies. Above all, the Democrats and the UAW came together at the Save the American Dream rally to contain and dissipate the enormous anger and militancy of autoworkers which has built up over decades of attacks on their living standards and basic rights. The development of a powerful rank-and-file movement requires an understanding among workers that Bernie Sanders and the Democrats are class enemies and cannot address their concerns and interests as representatives of the capitalist system. As it pursues vital geopolitical and military aims against Russia and China, the US ruling class is utilizing the UAW bureaucracy and the Fain leadership to suppress the struggle of the working class. Above all, the Democrats and Republicans are virulently hostile to the development of the class struggle and especially the emergence of a politically conscious and organized socialist opposition within the working class. Sign up for text message updates on the Detroit Big Three contract fight by texting AUTO to (866) 847-1086. The following message was sent by Larry, a leader of the Volvo Trucks Rank-and-File Committee, to Sundays meeting, Unite the rank and file for an all-out strike, sponsored by the Autoworkers Rank-and-File Committees Network. The Volvo workers committee was formed during the three-month-struggle by nearly 3,000 workers at the New River Valley plant in Dublin, Virginia, in 2021. Workers at the Big Three auto companies set the bar for the rest of us. During our struggle two years ago, the UAW officials kept telling us, you cant have COLA [cost-of-living adjustment raises] and other things, because the autoworkers dont have that. If you can hold the line and defeat the tier system, years of stagnant wages and the empty promises of the UAW bureaucratsyou will win for all of us. Fain is trying to placate autoworkers while he works with the companies to put the screws to us. If the UAW had cajones, every UAW local in the country would be out on strike now. If that is going to happen, the local rank-and-file committees have to build up the pressure for an all-out strike. What Fain is doing is a lot like what the UAW executives did to us in 2021. Knowing they would not be able to get a contract through without allowing some limited job action, the UAW called us out on April 17, 2021. Two weeks later, they suddenly shut the strike down and ordered us to return to work without showing us or letting us vote on their tentative agreement. This allowed Volvo to put out more trucks and replenish its stocks. We voted down the deal by 91 percent. Three weeks later, they brought back another one and we rejected it by 90 percent. The UAW called us out on strike again. But they did everything to isolate, starve us and defeat us. Despite this, we voted down their third deal. The UAW officials responded by making us vote again on what they said was the last, best, and final offer from the company. This time they claimed it passed by 17 votes. Two years after the contract, workers know it was a mistake to vote for this rotten contract, and there is deep animosity toward the UAW and the company. During our three-month fight, we organized the Volvo Workers Rank-and-File Committee to provide a new perspective to workers and open their eyes to a different story from the one the UAW officials were giving them. That made workers question the higher authority. The UAW officials pushed back and tried to discredit us, but our voices were being heard. Workers would say: we heard what the company said, and what the UAW said, but now we want to see what the rank-and-file committee said. We gave workers a way to fight. They would ask, Can we really do that? and we said, Yes, if we stick together and dont let them divide us. It was great that other committees sprang up during our fight, like the one Will Lehman joined at Mack Trucks. The UAW intentionally divides Volvo and Mack workers even though we work for the same company and pits us against each other. We talked with Will and others and said we shouldnt be competing against each other, were in the same fight. We did not realize this until we started talking to each other. It is the lack of communication that keeps the UAW bureaucracy in power. The apparatus wants to keep everyone in the dark. But knowledge is power. We also talked with workers outside the US, to Volvo workers in Belgium, and autoworkers in Mexico. We realized we were in the same battle, and they were supporting us. All you ever hear from the UAW is that workers overseas dont care about the US workers, that they are told that we are greedy. But through the committee, we found out that they were rooting for us, and that felt good. We talked to the Mexican workers, and they were looking to us to fight the companies, because if we could make our lives better, it would improve theirs. All of us are in this together. It is not just about American workers, it is about workers around the world, fighting together. GM, Ford and Stellantis workers: you are the shining light on the hill. If you can stick together, everything you win will roll down the hill to us and workers everywhere. But you have to build these committees. None of these politicians, Democrats or Republicans, are our friends. We have to take power in our own hands, so when the UAW bureaucrats say you have to go to work while less than 10 percent of you are striking, the ranks will say No, were all going out. A man sits by the graves of the flash flood victims in Derna, Libya, Friday, September 15, 2023. [AP Photo/Yousef Murad] Over the weekend, former President Barack Obama urged his 132 million followers on Twitter (X) to make contributions to charitable organizations aiding the people of Derna, the Libyan city devastated by a flood that killed well over 20,000 people, according to estimates by local officials. If youre looking to help people impacted by the floods in Libya, check out these organizations providing relief, Obama wrote, citing an appeal from his own foundation. This statement provoked a barrage of hostile comments on social media from those who justifiably cited Obamas own responsibility for creating the conditions for the Libyan disaster. His government launched the US-NATO war in 2011 that destroyed the existing regime of longtime ruler Muammar Gaddafi. The bombing set in motion the protracted civil war, still ongoing, that has laid waste to a country that was once the richest in Africa. Other top US officials responsible for the war in Libya include then-Vice President Joe Biden and then-Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who played the main role in publicly justifying the war. She gloated about US-NATO success in killing Gaddafi. We came, we saw, he died, she boasted at the time. Now-President Biden issued his own sanctimonious appeal for support and sympathy for the Libyan people. Jill and I send our deepest condolences to all the families who have lost loved ones in the devastating floods in Libya, he said in a statement last week, adding that the US was sending emergency funds to relief organizations. No dollar amount has been announced yet, but it will be a drop in the bucket compared to the $1.1 billion spent by the US on the 2011 war, let alone the tens of billions being spent on the war against Russia in Ukraine. The total aid appeal announced by the United Nations is only $71 million. This sum is dwarfed by the vast human need, and by the enormous amounts squandered on the killing zone that Ukraine has become. The European Union, which has poured nearly $40 billion into the war against Russia, pledged a mere $537,000 in aid to the victims of the Derna flood. The United Nations also bears responsibility for the Libyan tragedy. On March 17, 2011, the UN Security Council approved actions against Libya (with Russia and China abstaining rather than vetoing), authorizing member states to take all necessary measures to protect civilians under threat of attack in the country, including Benghazi. This language gave the UN seal of approval to the imperialist pretext for attacking Libya, the supposed threat of a massacre of the people of Benghazi by Gaddafis forces. Two days later, the US-NATO bombing began. That war killed 25,000 Libyans, including Gaddafi, who was tortured and murdered by Islamic fundamentalists recruited, trained and armed by the Pentagon and CIA, as well as Britain and France. These fighters were then shipped by the CIA to Syria to join an insurgent movement against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad that became known as ISIS. The port through which these hardened guerrillas were transported was the city of Derna, now largely destroyed by the September 10 flood. Other Islamists moved south, destabilizing most of the Sahel region, including Chad, Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso and the Central African Republic, and spreading violence into Nigeria, Africas most populous country. A map featuring north and central Africa. [Photo: www.openstreetmap.org] Within Libya itself, the consequences of the US-led war were catastrophic. Economically, Africas most prosperous country before the US-NATO attack has been transformed into one of poverty and deprivation, with crumbling infrastructure. In 2010, the year before the war, Libyas GDP was $11,611 per capita. By 2021, this figure was cut nearly in half, to $5,909 per capita. The countrys net wealth actually fell 21 percent from 2010 to 2021, in sharp contrast to African countries like Ethiopia (up 591 percent), Kenya (up 468 percent) and Nigeria (up 230 percent). The US-NATO bombing of Libya was followed by a civil war between rival factions, each backed by a different constellation of outside powers vying for control of the countrys vast oil and gas reserves, the largest in Africa. Libya has now been effectively partitioned between an eastern region headquartered in Benghazi and a western region controlled from Tripoli, the capital city. Reportedly, the eastern region rulers, headed by Khalifa Haftar, once a CIA asset but now allied with France, Russia and the United Arab Emirates, looked with suspicion on the city of Derna because of its role in the activities of the Islamic fundamentalists and American intelligence operatives. They were not inclined to expend resources to repair and strengthen the infrastructure there, even after reports of visible cracks in the two dams that protected the city against possible flooding of the wadi, the riverbed, usually dry, which ran through its center. It was these two dams that failed under the impact of Storm Daniel, the hurricane-sized weather event, likely strengthened by climate change, which poured more than 15 inches of water on the city, a years average rainfall, in a few hours. The huge volume of water, freed from any constraint by the dam collapse, roared down upon the defenseless inhabitants of Derna and swept away or buried in mud an estimated one in four buildings in a city of nearly 100,000 people. The American corporate media, of course, says nothing in its coverage of the disaster about the responsibility of the Obama-Biden administration and the US government for this colossal human tragedy. There will be no indictments, either politically or juridically, of the war criminals in Washington. When the United Nations General Assembly convenes Monday in New York City, the leaders of the major powers will give complacent speeches about the urgency of mobilizing the world in support of Ukraine. They may even give lip service to the causes of fighting global hunger and disease, the need to assist the victims of natural disasters in Morocco, Libya, Turkey and countless other countries. Coinciding with this event is the two-day conference sponsored by the Clinton Global Initiative, the foundation run by Bill and Hillary Clinton. This boasts seven US governors, four Biden cabinet members, two former White House press secretaries, a genuine war criminal, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, and reportedly the Pope. There is no mention in its voluminous agenda of either the Libyan disaster or Hillary Clintons role in it. There is silence likewise from the pseudo-left groups and left academics who backed the US-NATO war in Libya, and who now back the US-NATO war against Russia in Ukraine. None of these groups has the slightest independence from American imperialism or its European rivals. All of them, like Obama, Biden and Clinton, have blood on their hands, and bear political and moral responsibility for one of great crimes of the 21st century. Only the World Socialist Web Site and the International Committee of the Fourth International have a political record of consistent opposition to imperialism and all its crimes. We seek today, as we did in 2011, and as we do every day in relation to the Ukraine war, to clarify the working class in every country on the necessity to wage a political struggle against imperialism and to unite internationally to do so. Welcome to Kansas City, Kansas, where the heartland of America meets family-friendly fun! This vibrant city has a wide range of activities that are perfect for families looking to create lasting memories together. From exciting museums to outdoor adventures, Kansas City offers something for everyone. Here are the top 10 family-friendly activities to enjoy in Kansas City. 1. Schlitterbahn Kansas City Waterpark: Splash and Thrill Kick off your family adventure with a visit to Schlitterbahn Kansas City Waterpark. Dive into a world of water rides, lazy rivers, and wave pools. Whether youre seeking thrills on the slides or relaxation in the water, this waterpark has it all. Its a splashing good time for all ages. 2. Kansas City Zoo: Wildlife Wonders Kansas City Zoo via Getty Images Take a walk on the wild side at the Kansas City Zoo. Explore various ecosystems, encounter exotic animals, and engage in interactive exhibits. Dont forget to visit the penguins, tigers, and the Australian outback exhibit. Its an educational and entertaining experience for the entire family. 3. Science City at Union Station: Hands-On Learning Science City at Union Station is a haven for curious minds. With interactive exhibits, science demonstrations, and a planetarium, its a place where learning is fun. Kids can experiment, explore, and discover the wonders of science in an engaging environment. 4. LEGOLAND Discovery Center: Build and Play If your family loves LEGO bricks, you wont want to miss LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Dive into a world of creativity with LEGO-themed rides, interactive play zones, and even a LEGO factory tour. Its a fantastic place for kids and adults alike to build and play together. 5. Kansas Speedway: Roaring Excitement For thrill-seekers in the family, the Kansas Speedway is the place to be. Catch an exhilarating NASCAR race or enjoy family-friendly events like movie nights on the track. Its a roaring good time for car enthusiasts and families alike. 6. Deanna Rose Childrens Farmstead: Farmyard Fun Experience life on the farm at the Deanna Rose Childrens Farmstead. Kids can pet farm animals, explore nature trails, and even fish in the pond. Its a delightful place for young children to learn about farm life in a hands-on setting. 7. Wyandotte County Lake Park: Outdoor Adventures Wyandotte County Lake Park via Getty Images Head outdoors to Wyandotte County Lake Park for a day of outdoor adventures. Enjoy picnicking, hiking, fishing, and boating on the serene lake. The park offers playgrounds and scenic spots perfect for family relaxation and enjoyment. 8. National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame: Rural History Learn about Americas agricultural history at the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame. Explore exhibits showcasing farming equipment, rural life, and the impact of agriculture on our nation. Its an educational experience that sheds light on our farming heritage. 9. Grinter Place State Historic Site: Step into History Travel back in time at the Grinter Place State Historic Site. Take a guided tour of this 19th-century farmhouse and learn about the history of early settlers in Kansas. Its a glimpse into the past that the whole family can enjoy. 10. Kansas Childrens Discovery Center: Play and Learn The Kansas Childrens Discovery Center is a paradise for young learners. With indoor and outdoor exhibits, interactive play areas, and a treehouse adventure, its a place where children can play and discover new things at every turn. The 10 Best Family-Friendly Activities in Kansas City, Kansas Summary Kansas City, Kansas, is a destination where family fun knows no bounds. From thrilling waterparks and educational museums to outdoor adventures and wildlife encounters, theres a diverse array of activities waiting to be explored. Kansas Citys warm hospitality and welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect place for families to bond, learn, and have a fantastic time together. So, pack your bags and head to Kansas City, where memorable family adventures await. The post The 10 Best Family-Friendly Activities in Kansas City, Kansas appeared first on Momtastic. Anette Novak is out at the Swedish Film Institute. The Institute announced today that Novak will leave her role as CEO with a statement on their website. The reason for Novaks departure was not disclosed. Speculation in local media suggests Novaks departure was without warning and instructed by the Institutes board. More from Deadline The board considers that there is a need for new leadership. The intention is not to change the direction of the business, board chairwoman Gunilla von Platen said in the statement. Novak joined the Swedish Film Institute in April 2022 from her role as the director and agency head of The Swedish Media Council, which, among other things, is responsible for the Swedish film classification. Novak also worked as the Swedish Governments appointed investigator for the Media review. She also served as CEO at RISE Interactive Institute, a Swedish state-owned IT and research Institute. Since 2022, Sweden has backed films such as Ruben Ostlunds Cannes winner Triangle of Sadness and Martin Skovbjergs buzzy feature Copenhagen Does Not Exist. This year, Sweden had two films at the Toronto Film Festival: Lukas Moodyssons Together 99 and Axel Petersens Shame on Dry Land. Both films received funding from the institute. Venice competition title The Promised Land, starring Mads Mikkelsen, was also a recipient of production funding from the Institute. Novak succeeded Anna Serner, who left the post in 2021. Serner was best known for creating the 50/50by2020 initiative in 2016, an industry-led campaign working for gender equality in cinema. The initiative was later adopted by organizations and festivals around the world and continues to evolve as the fight for equality rolls on. The Institutes executive board will appoint Novaks replacement. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. An Evening with Arnold Schwarzenegger - Credit: Photo by Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images Arnold Schwarzenegger celebrated four decades of American citizenship this weekend. In a post on Instagram the bodybuilder-turned-actor-turned-politician commemorated the anniversary of one of the proudest days of my life with a series of photographs set to his speech from the 2004 Republican National Convention. My fellow Americans, this an amazing moment for me, the speech begins. To think that a once-scrawny boy from Austria could grow up to become governor of the state of California, that is an immigrants dream. In school when the teacher would talk about America, I would daydream about coming here. I would daydream about living here. As long as I live, I will never forget the day when I raised my right hand and I took the oath of citizenship. You know how proud I was? I was so proud that I walked around with the American flag around my shoulders all day long. More from Rolling Stone I arrived here with empty pockets, but full of dreams, full of determination, full of desire, the former governor of California said as photos of his youth in Austria, his arrival in America, taking the oath of U.S. citizenship in 1983 and highlights from a long, diverse career played in the background. Everything about America seemed so big to me, so open, so possible, he continued. To my fellow immigrants listening tonight, I want you to know how welcomed you are. We encourage your dreams. We believe in your future. Schwarzenegger recently opened up about nearly dying after open-heart surgery. In a video shared on YouTube, Schwarzenegger said the operation took place several years ago, just before he started working on Terminator: Dark Fate (released in 2019). Schwarzenegger remembered waking up after the procedure and seeing his doctor, who told him the operation had not gone as planned. The actor said the procedure was supposed to be a relatively non-invasive one to replace a heart valve, but his doctors made a mistake and poked through the heart wall. That puncture caused serious internal bleeding, forcing Schwarzeneggers doctors to open him up quickly to save his life. I wanted to get really going with the exercise and get out of the hospital as quickly as possible, and then get going with the training again because three months later, I started with Terminator 6, Schwarzenegger said. I had to be in shape, I had to be able to move around, run around, lift things up, do the fight scenes. So we did it, because I had a positive attitude, I knew exactly how I was gonna get there, and I had the support system. Because none of this we can do by ourselves. The 76-year-old shows no signs of slowing down. Earlier this year, Schwarzenegger starred in the action-comedy series FUBAR, which has been renewed for a second season. Best of Rolling Stone Click here to read the full article. "It is one of the proudest days of my life," the former California governor said in an Instagram post marking the milestone Justin Sullivan/Getty Arnold Schwarzenegger is sworn in as governor of California in January 2007. Arnold Schwarzenegger is proud to be American! The actor celebrated his 40 years of U.S. citizenship by sharing a collection of photos from his journey from a young boy in Austria to becoming an American citizen in a post on his Instagram Saturday. On this day 40 years ago, I became an American citizen. It is one of the proudest days of my life. I owe everything to America. Born in Austria, made in America! the 76-year-old former governor of California wrote as he marked the milestone. Bill Nation/Sygma via Getty Arnold Schwarzenegger became a U.S. citizen in 1983. The Terminator stars post included photos documenting his life before and after he came to America, including snaps of him taking the oath of U.S. citizenship in 1983, wearing an American flag shirt and an Uncle Sam hat while holding two American flags, and posing in front of the iconic Hollywood sign. He set the photo slideshow to audio from the speech he delivered at the 2004 Republican National Convention in New York City. Related: Arnold Schwarzenegger Says James Cameron's 'Terminator' Films Predicted the Future: 'It Has Become a Reality' My fellow Americans, this an amazing moment for me. To think a once-scrawny boy from Austria could grow up to become governor of the state of California, that is an immigrants dream, Schwarzenegger said in the clip. He continued: In school when the teacher would talk about America, I would daydream about coming here. I would daydream about living here. AP Arnold Schwarzenegger displays his U.S. citizenship certificate. As long as I live, I will never forget the day when I raised my hand for the oath of citizenship. You know how proud I was? I was so proud that I walked around with the American flag wrapped around my shoulder all day long, the seven-time Mr. Olympia bodybuilding champion said. I finally arrived here in 1968. What a special day it was. I remembered I arrived here with empty pockets but full of dreams, full of determination and full of desire, the Total Recall star said. Everything about America seemed so big to me, so open, so possible,' he continued. To my fellow immigrants listening tonight, I want you to know how welcomed you are. We encourage your dreams. We believe in your future, he added. Related: Arnold Schwarzenegger Never Wanted to Say Famous 'I'll Be Back' Tagline: 'It Sounded Stupid' Schwarzenegger was married to broadcast journalist Maria Shriver for 25 years before they divorced in 2021. They share four kids: daughters Katherine, 33, and Christina, 31, and sons Patrick, 29, and Christopher, 25. 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. The action star recently opened up about the complications he experienced after undergoing his third open-heart surgery. In a video posted on YouTube on Sept. 5, he shared that he had a tough recovery following the procedure, which occurred just months before filming Terminator 6 in 2019. He called the situation a disaster and said he was able to get his health back by keeping a positive attitude. Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Arnold Schwarzenegger celebrates his U.S. citizenship on Sept. 17, 1983. The bottom line is, you cannot roll the clock back. It was a disaster. I was in the middle of a disaster. So now how do I get out of it? You have to shift gears, he recalled. Collect yourself, shift gears and say, Okay what I need to do now is get out of this hospital. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. There are licenses to fish, hunt and drive a car. Christina Baril has an artistic license. Its vital to her work as exhibitions director at Art Center Sarasota (ACS). Theres no official document or card in her wallet. How did she earn it? I have a background as a sculptor and a ceramic artist, Baril says. Ive been educated in art and art history and worked at different museums and galleries and Ive also done my share of manual labor. Barils track record is impressive. It includes an MFA in ceramics at the University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth, and a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing and art/art history from the College of William and Mary. She put that training to work at a host of galleries and museums, including the New Bedford Art Museum in Massachusetts, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City, and the Newseum in Washington D.C. Before joining Art Center Sarasota in early 2022, she taught at State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota. On top of that, Baril is also a fiercely original sculptor. She definitely has the right stuff for the work of ACSs exhibitions director. So, what does that job entail? Christina Baril is the exhibitions director for Art Center Sarasota Organizing exhibitions is obviously my end game, says Baril. My work always begins with making connections. So, I find ways to expand our community of artists. That includes finding artists for our solo exhibitions, along with artists interested in showing to the jurors of our open-call, group exhibitions. Based on Barils answer, exhibitions director sounds like a fairly easy job. According to Kinsey Robb, ACSs executive director, its not. Christina plans, manages and stages all of the Art Centers exhibitions, Robb says. To put that in perspective, we have four different galleries. Our yearly exhibition season has six different cycles. With each new cycle, we put up four new shows in all four galleries. We also plan our exhibitions for two seasons in advance with alternate exhibitions in case a show gets canceled. Its a complicated jigsaw puzzle. Putting the pieces together demands advance planning. In collaboration with Robb, Baril compiles a short list of artists of interest for solo exhibitions in upcoming seasons. For possible, juried group shows, they discuss a vast range of central themes, including subject matter, mediums and messages. While themes may vary, Baril and Robb want each cycles exhibitions to feel connected, but not compete or repeat. Along with mapping out ACSs future exhibitions, Baril coordinates installations in the here-and-now. While she doesnt do the heavy lifting, she oversees the crew that does. Baril also works with Robb to select the jurors for ACSs juried group shows and creates a professional presentation of the art each juror will consider. The artists of ACSs solo shows get the final say on content. But Baril helps the artists refine the visions for their shows. Whats the heart of your exhibition? The organizing principle? What do you want? The art in each one-person show serves the artists intention. Once thats crystal clear, Baril puts the show together. Its art selections may draw on existing pieces. Or reveal new pieces created specifically for the ACS exhibition and site. That may sound like a curators job. According to Robb, thats because it is. Christinas work has a curatorial aspect in our one-person shows, she says. Connecting with artists is a major part of her role. Baril recently made powerful connections with Lauren Mann, Iren Tete and Ry McCullough, the three featured artists in ACSs latest solo exhibitions. She describes them as, young, gifted and bursting with creative ideas. Based on their art, thats accurate. Iren Tete is a Gainesville-based sculptor whose work is on display in a solo show at Art Center Sarasota. Collaborating with sculptor Iren Tete Tete, a Gainesville-based sculptor, was right at the top of Barils artist-of-interest list. Why? Irens work really resonated with me, she says. Wed both studied at the College of William and Mary, and were also both ceramic artists. We share the same passions and really see eye-to-eye. Tete agreed to a one-person show at ACS, and they discussed specifics on Zoom and over the phone. The artist enjoyed these meetings of the minds. Irene Tetes sculpture Things and thoughts that fold and unfold is featured in her show at Art Center Sarasota. Christina thinks like an artist because she is an artist, Tete says. On a conceptual level, that was incredibly helpful to me when we were mapping my show out. Tete adds that Barils help wasnt limited to concepts. For this show, I wanted to place my pieces up on cement blocks, and paint a few of the blocks. Christina not only procured the blocks, she painted the ones I indicated. Not every exhibitions director would go to that much trouble. Ry McCullough is a multidisciplinary artist based in Tampa. Multidisciplinary artist Ry McCullough McCullough was also on Barils shortlist. This Tampa-based, multidisciplinary artist is a postmodern da Vinci who straddles a range of mediums. His work in the Skyway 20/21 exhibition at USF blew Baril away, and she quickly reached out, and he agreed to a one-person show. Art selection would not be a problem this time. McCulloughs solo show would feature all-new work. Thats his style. While his multimedia pieces are abstract, they illustrate a narrative (a private story McCullough doesnt share). As the artists tale comes together, his art does too. But that takes time. Baril gave McCullough time. And it paid off. Ry McCulloughs Hive Helmet with Butter Brick. She left me alone to develop my work for awhile, he says. About three months ago, she dropped by to check up on my progress. We had a fantastic studio visit! Christinas amazingly perceptive. Shes an artist, an art curator, and an exhibitions director, and has all those different perspectives to draw on. I had about 100 pieces for her to look at, but shes also very patient. Barils input continued in the following months. When McCullough needed her input, she was there. When he needed to be alone, she wasnt. When I needed editing or clarity, Christina steered me in the right direction, he says. She helped me complete this body of work. I really enjoyed the process. Lauren Mann, a Clearwater-based portrait artist, has her work featured in a solo show at Art Center Sarasota. Portrait artist Lauren Mann Barils solo show planning sessions arent always this intense. Some artists love to brainstorm. Some leave the ball entirely in her court. Others enjoy discussing their exhibitions, but keep it short and sweet. Lauren Mann, for example. This Clearwater-based portrait artist was definitely on Barils list. Colored pencil drawing is Manns medium but it looks like electricity on paper. Her portraits crackle with fierce energy. Baril had been suitably electrified by her pieces in the Fresh Squeezed 6 exhibition at the Morean Arts Center in St. Petersburg. When Mann agreed to a one-person show at ACS, that was also a thrill. Lauren Manns A Daisy Gifted is a Secret Shared. Lauren was very easy to work with, Baril recalls. In the beginning, we agreed on the direction her work would take. About a year later, we looked at what shed put together. That was pretty much it. Some artists need Socratic dialog. Some need to be left alone. Either way, its the art they create that counts. The art in ACSs current solo exhibitions has a powerful impact. But its also very different. Tete, McCullough and Mann have all created great work. But why does it go great together? According to Baril, because its all so different. Sameness is dull, obviously. Difference is fun, obviously. Baril says its more than that. Arts Newsletter: Sign up to receive the latest news on the Sarasota area arts scene every Monday A special arts community: Amid national theater crisis Sarasota arts groups are thriving after COVID losses Bringing it all together In her view, the different flavors of each cycles solo shows make viewers take a second look. And that changes their perceptions. They start to see the artists work in a new way. Ry and Irens work is more abstract, Baril explains. Laurens work is extremely literal and representational. Juxtaposing her pieces with their non-representational pieces shines a new light on everything. You can see the artists different ways of thinking. But you also see their commonalities. Laurens work has abstract elements; Iren and Rys abstractions have hints of representation. The viewer would miss all that if the shows were all the same. Robb says Barils definitely made a difference at ACS. Christina has a remarkable sense of vision for her position, she says. We run so many exhibitions each year, so its a very large role. But shes really stepped up and become a leader. I know shes made my job so much easier. Barils proud of the exhibitions she organizes at ACS. But there are more shows ahead. Her mind is set on the complicated puzzles of 2024 and 25. The work of an exhibitions director never ends. Thats OK with Baril. She loves her work. Earning my artistic license wasnt easy, she says. But confining that license to the pursuit of my personal artistic ambitions isnt enough for me. Being an exhibitions director lets me apply the skills and knowledge Ive learned to something other than my own art. Thats very, very satisfying! Art Center Sarasota solo exhibitions Lauren Mann: The Ephemerality of Being, Ry McCullough: Superpositions, and Iren Tete: systems of (entanglement) run through Sept. 30, at Art Center Sarasota, 707 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-365-2032; artsarasota.org Artist Talks: Lauren Mann, 5:30 p.m. Sept. 7; Ry McCullough, 5:30 p.m. Sept. 14, 5:30 p.m. $5. Read more visual arts stories by Marty Fugate This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Artist Christina Baril puts her stamp on Art Center Sarasota shows Punk veterans Black Flag will head to Australia for a run of headline shows in December. Theyll get things underway on the Gold Coast on Thursday, 7th December, before playing Brisbane and Sydney, and then finishing at the Corner Hotel in Melbourne on Sunday, 10th December. Its the bands first tour of Australia in ten years, although they played Dark Mofo in Hobart earlier this year. Black Flag will perform two sets at each show on the tour: theyll perform the entirety of 1984s My War, and then play a set of other favourites from across their career. Black Flag: My War The Black Flag lineup now consists of founder Greg Ginn and vocalist Mike Vallely , who joined in the early 2000s, and a revolving cast of session musos. Henry Rollins, the talismanic former frontman, hasnt been a part of the band since 1986. The bands 2013 tour of Australia was notable for the fact the band fired vocalist Ron Reyes mid-set in Perth. According to Reyes, Vallely marched up to him on stage and told him it was all over. It could have been better, Vallely conceded in an interview with Rolling Stone the following year. [Black Flag] can be a stronger, more cohesive, tighter band. We want to prove that. I did not threaten him or physically remove him from the stage, Vallely continued. I just told him very plainly, very simply, that it was over. And he looked at me and he almost seemed relieved. Then he walked off the stage. Black Flag 2023 Australian Tour Thursday, 7th December Mos Desert Clubhouse, Gold Coast QLD Friday, 8th December Mansfield Tavern, Brisbane QLD Saturday, 9th December Factory Theatre, Sydney NSW Sunday, 10th December Corner Hotel, Melbourne VIC Tickets on sale now. Further Reading Black Flag Apologise For Subpar Reunion, Officially Announce New Frontman Black Flag Vocalist Ron Reyes Claims He Was Fired Mid-Set In Perth Black Flag To Release First Album In Almost 30 Years The post Black Flag Announce 2023 Australian Tour appeared first on Music Feeds. Rather than shoving her once-hated dress to the back of the closet, one former bridesmaid repurposed the wedding garment she didnt love and has worn it around the world for the last 35 years. Rebecca Whitlinger has now made the dress her trademark, taking it with her as she travels from Peru to Iceland and London. Her short-sleeve gold sequined gown, originally worn at her best friends wedding, is featured in every other picture on the Pittsburgh natives Instagram. Whats more, the associate director of the non-profit organisation Cancer Bridges published a book in 1999 focused on her experiences. Titled Always a Bridesmaid: 89 Ways to Recycle That Bridesmaid Dress, Whitlinger detailed strategies shes utilised to make the fancy garment wearable after its big debut down the aisle. Speaking to Insider, Whitlinger opened up about her journey of turning a special occasion piece into an adventure. According to her, she didnt fancy the shimmery gown from 1988 at first. I dont think anybody loved the dress really, but we were excited to be at the wedding, and thats the more important part, she confessed. Whitlinger was speaking on behalf of her fellow bridesmaids. So I wore it, and the bride, wanting to be very kind to her bridesmaids said: Oh you can wear it again, she continued. In Whitlingers mind, that wasnt a bad idea. She got inspired to start squeezing the custom-made dress into her suitcase every time she went on a trip, thinking there may be at least one opportunity for her to wear it. And while you could say its a hobby, it only takes one minute to throw the dress on. I could do it now if you needed to see it, Whitlinger noted. It doesnt occupy a ton of time. I take the picture and move on, usually into a better outfit because I do care about what I wear. A garment once detested turned out to be a sight to see against the most beautiful backdrops across the globe. But Whitlingers quest to wear the gown didnt begin with the wild expeditions she takes now. The author explained how bridesmaids can start small like she did at a grocery store or local establishment. She encourages young wedding parties to not be afraid to wear their momentous apparel outside of a party setting. Id rather wear a formal gown to go grocery shopping than a tracksuit, Whitlinger proclaimed. And why not mark other meaningful milestones with the elegant piece as well? Whitlinger sure has. The innovative individual told Insider her gold dress is present in many passports and drivers license photos taken within the last three decades. The Independent has contacted Whitlinger for a comment. Bosnian director and screenwriter Danis Tanovic, whose No Mans Land won the Best Foreign Language Film Oscar, has been selected as the president of the Official Competition Jury at the 45th edition of the Cairo Film Festival. As well as the Oscar, No Mans Land won best screenplay at Cannes in 2001. Tanovic has also directed films such as 2005s Lenfer, starring Emmanuelle Beart, 2009s Shell Shock, starring Colin Farrell and Paz Vega, An Episode in the Life of an Iron Picker, which won the Grand Jury Prize at the Berlinale in 2013, and Death in Sarajevo, which won the Grand Jury Prize at the Berlinale in 2016. More from Variety Amir Ramsis, director of the festival, said Danis Tanovic had been crowned in cinema history with major international awards from the Academy, Cannes and Berlin. He added: I am delighted that our festival has always given its audience the opportunity to interact with names that have made cinema history from different countries of the world. Festival president Hussein Fahmy said: Danis Tanovic is one of the most important film names in the world, and his films have won many awards at the most prestigious film festivals, and we are proud to have him as the jury president of this years international competition. Cairo also announced that Tamer Rugglis debut feature Back to Alexandria would make its Middle East and North Africa premiere in the competition section. The film stars French actor Fanny Ardant and Lebanese actor-director Nadine Labaki. The film is also playing at Zurich Film Festival. The film follows Sue, who, after 20 years of absence, has to return to her native Egypt to see her mother Fairouz, an eccentric aristocrat from whom she has been estranged. This journey, leading her from Cairo to Alexandria, is tinted with distant memories, nostalgia and mixed feelings about her past, and allows Sue to become the empowered woman she ought to be. Best of Variety Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. When ex-South Park writer Toby Morton set out to lampoon Moms for Liberty with a parody website this summer, he expected to receive hate mail. On Mortons MomsForLiberties.com, visitors are greeted with swastikas encircling the parental rights juggernauts logo, a leadership page that boasts Hercules actor turned conservative pundit Kevin Sorbo as their minivan driver, and a listing of items the moms have banned for fun including the board game Sorry. Those who are taught to say sorry are weak, the fake site for the far-right group declares. NEVER apologize for your actions because your actions are probably warranted if youre white. I told myself that I never want to lose the original idea of why I started these websites, which was to make myself laugh and to troll people who deserve to be trolled, said Morton, who has also crafted spoof sites for Republicans including Colorado Rep. Lauren Boebert, Texas Governor Greg Abbott , Florida Governor Ron DeSantis , and New York Rep. Elise Stefanik, taking advantage of politicians who fail to snag all domains with their monikers. DeSantis, Furries, and Trump Merch: I Went to the Moms for Liberty Summit But Morton didnt anticipate how serious this project could be. Fans sent Morton a barrage of messages detailing how Moms for Liberty (M4L) was altering their school boards and more than a few tips about its particularly egregious members, who call themselves joyful warriors. Funded and aligned with right-wing donors and organizations like the Leadership Institute, M4L has been at the forefront of a national movement to ban books (or even yearbooks) containing race, gender, LGBTQ themes, and sexual content. The groups second annual summit in July attracted mass protests and campaign stops from presidential candidates including Donald Trump, DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, and Nikki Haley. For Morton, what started as comic relief is morphing into a fundraising campaign, one that will create pages for each state. My plan is to disrupt this hate group for as long as possible with billboards, pamphlets, background information and other tactics, Morton said. They have no interest in truly educating children and would rather actively prevent them from learning the true history of our country. I have a lot of support around the country so Ill continue updating my website about this group in each state so people are fully aware. As one South Carolina M4L chapter plans to distribute pocket constitutions to schools, Morton says hes aiming to travel there for his own counter-programming. A California city, where a M4L organizer lashed out at Morton, could soon see a taunting billboard, too. MomsForLiberties site quotes Adolf Hitlera nod to one M4L chapter actually doing so in their newsletterand includes the tagline: Officially Extremist. (This summer, the Southern Poverty Law Center for the first time designated M4L as an anti-government group. In response, M4L tweeted that the maneuver was part of a coordinated attempt to silence and suppress us.) We are an extremist organization that prides itself on making sure that freedom of speech and choice only applies to those who believe gays are demonic, MomsForLiberties.com reads, Hitler actually wasnt that bad so Jews should stop overreacting, any transgender are considered trash and need to be disposed of, current teachers in this society should be under the control of fascists who know better, and that any teachers who disobey deserve to be handled by any means necessary and this includes physical control. Mortons antics are but a small part of a broader effort to combat the growth of Moms for Liberty across the country, as concerned parents assemble groups of their own including Stop Moms For Liberty, Our Schools USA, Defense of Democracy, and Red Wine and Blue. In Pennsylvania, citizens launched an organization Grandmas For Love. Moms for Liberty did not respond to a request for comment. Its local ringleaders werent laughing, especially after Mortons followers began posting links to MomsForLiberties.com on chapter Instagram pages. What you see is an anonymous and untraceable email address, one member emailed Morton. This is for my protection You have flown under the radar long enough, the person added. Its time to shut you down. Go to Florida, then well make ourselves known. Enough of hiding behind comedy. You must no longer abuse the system this way. Meanwhile, a Nevada chapter of M4L commented on Mortons Instagram @wordclown: Your username defines you. Love it! In other messages, defenders of M4L used the word Jew as an insult and made below-the-belt references to his mothers Alzheimers diagnosis. It obviously takes a village to take on and troll moms for liberty. How embarrassing for you fucking jew f**got, one person messaged Morton. Some of the hate mail comes directly from the parody sites chatbox feature. I want all of my followers to see how insane and out of touch these people are, Morton told The Daily Beast. My screenshots of messages are without a doubt my most viewed and liked posts. Everyone needs to see what were dealing with no matter how short and stupid the messages are. Also, figuring out Your and Youre is still something theyre struggling to overcome. One San Diego mom told The Daily Beast that she criticized Mortons parody only to be targeted by an online mob for like 48 hours straight until I could figure out how to get things locked down. To cope, she listened to conspiracy theorist and M4L collaborator James Lindsays podcast episode that compares the backlash against M4L to Chinas Communist leader Mao Zedongs struggle sessions, or public humiliations of class enemies. I can see why he targets politicians, they put themselves on a public stage by running for office, but Im literally just a mom advocating for her kids and parental rights in schools, the woman added. Im just a mom. He and his followers are absolutely unhinged and unstable. The Proud Boys Came to Their School District. These Parents Fought Back. Mortons website, it should be noted, has a placeholder page for fascist chapters. All of this information is public, Mortons page notes. There will be NO DOXING. The purpose of this is to make sure people know about those who have chosen to join this hate group that live in their states/cities/counties. There will also be updated school board elections and open seats that this hate group is trying to be a part of, the site continues. To those of you who have already sent in information from your area, THANK YOU. Morton says he zeroed in on M4L while doing research for his DeSantis sendup, defascist24.com, which includes a phony journal for the governor. Dear Diary, one entry begins, I saw a rainbow today. Im worried the sky is trying to groom me. DeSantis has been an ally of M4L since its inception in 2021, appointing co-founders Bridget Ziegler and Tina Descovich to a new board governing Disney theme parks and the Florida state Commission on Ethics, respectively. Morton is surprised that his hobby has taken on a life of its own. When DeSantis supporters gathered at a hotel in Tallahassee over the summer, someone plastered flyers with DeFascist for President and a QR code for Mortons site around the events conference rooms. I just thought it would be funny to troll candidates and now its just grown so much, he said. Im still shocked that people are as excited about it as they are. The comic is also wading into local battles, crafting a parody site for embattled Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton, who made national headlines after his GOP-run chamber expelled two Democrats (both Black men) for supposedly violating rules for joining gun-control protests in wake of a mass shooting at a Christian elementary school. YOU RACIST? I GOT YOUR BACK, says the top of Mortons SpeakerSexton.com, which includes a backdrop of a black-and-white photo of the Ku Klux Klan. Hey @CSexton25 - I purchased your domain https://t.co/ICovq0Iyvx and built your truthful website which includes your racism, attack on democracy and lack of leadership. Enjoy! Toby Morton (@tobymorton) April 12, 2023 Morton went a step further by paying for a billboard in Tennessee this week that says, Im for the resignation of Speaker Sexton. Love, Democracy, with Mortons email at the bottom. And by putting up ads around downtown Nashville which depict Sexton with clown makeup below the words: Speaker Sexton doesnt own SpeakerSexton.com. Go there now! As for Mortons spoof website of Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, fans on TikTok assumed the governors own page was hacked. GovernorBillLee.com, decorated in rainbow flags and with the motto Equality for a few, quotes the politicians supposed conscience: He hates what scares him. The Daily Beast left messages for DeSantis, Sexton, and Lee. Hey @EliseStefanik - You failed to secure https://t.co/Vmos9hnnPI so I got it and created your new website. Enjoy! Toby Morton (@tobymorton) May 16, 2022 Another target of Mortons crusade, Stefanik, let loose when the New York Post last year asked for comment on a parody site that leads with, LETS KEEP IT WHITE. THE REPLACEMENT THEORY AND WHY I SUPPORT IT. He spends all his time as a troll on social media, a scam PAC artist launching sexist and false attacks against Republican female leaders, and raising money for himself under the congresswomans name in a desperate attempt to gain acceptance from the radical left blue checkmark brigade, her spokesperson told the tabloid. We pray he gets the therapy and a real job he so desperately needs. But Morton remains unconcerned by the backlash. There were people who said, When they go low, you gotta go high. And Im like, No, not with my background. What I learned from writing for South Park was that nobody really cares if you go high or low, as long as its funny, said Morton, who still has a framed letter from actor Tom Cruises lawyers over a Scientology episode of the show. And to me, this is funny. This is why I started in the first place. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. As the fall season quickly approaches, Gia Giudice is looking back at her dreamy summer vacation in Spain and all the incredible looks she delivered throughout. On Friday, September 15, The Real Housewives of New Jersey daughter shared highlights from her romantic getaway with her longtime boyfriend, Christian Carmichael. The Instagram post included photos from the couples hot-air balloon ride, their time at the Purobeach Palma beach club, and a few amazing dinner dates. The first slide showed Gia standing outside Tree House by UM, a Japanese restaurant located in Mallorca. The recent Rutgers University graduate stunned in a chartreuse Michael Costello gown she copped from online retailer Revolve. The one-shoulder dress featured a high leg slit, a side cutout under the bust, and a subtle draping detail at the waist. Gia finished the look with gold jewelry, a white Prada shoulder bag, and open-toed shoes, which she borrowed from her mom, RHONJs Teresa Giudice. Gia Giudices Date-Night Looks The Jersey daughter then posted a few photos of her and Christians dinner at Izakaya in Ibiza. Gia opted for a more casual, playful ensemble that included a simple sleeveless black top from Aritzia, a navy sequined miniskirt from Amanda Uprichard, a black crossbody bag from Chanel, and a pair of black strappy heels. And just like the Tree House look, the Izakaya outfit was completed with gold jewelry, fresh evening glam, and an effortlessly chic hairstyle with loose waves. Style Living Ig Gia Giudice Boyfriend Valentines Flowers Gia Gets Date Night-Ready with the Help of Her Boyfriend, Christian Carmichael Gia took fans inside the dinner in an August 17 TikTok. We went to a restaurant called Izakaya. It was so good, she said. I loved the vibes of this place. The scenery was absolutely beautiful the food was so good. This was probably the coolest tuna tartare I have ever seen in my entire life. Like, the display was just awesome, and this crispy rice was also to die for. After enjoying some espresso martinis, Gia and Christian headed to a couple of nightclubs, including Hi Ibiza, where they watched David Guetta perform a DJ set. Gia Giudice rocks a dressy-casual look for her romantic hot-air balloon ride The aspiring attorney also shared some shots of her and Christians hot-air balloon excursion in Mallorca. For this event, Gia chose a fit that was practical, comfortable, and of course stylish. She rocked a seafoam short-sleeve button-up that was tied at the waist and a chocolate brown maxi skirt with subtle pleats. The garments, which were purchased from Zara, were complemented by white sneakers and a white crossbody bag from the New Jerseybased boutique Kim & Co. We got to experience being up in the sky for sunrise on this hot air balloon, and it was just absolutely beautiful, Gia said in an August 16 TikTok. I literally felt like I was in heaven. Then we landed; the landing was a little rough, but it was definitely fun and we did it Gia Giudice reunites with fellow Bravolebrities Jacqueline Laurita, her family, Gia Giudice, and Louie Ruelas at the DAmelio Footwear event in L.A. Jacqueline Laurita posts a series of Instagram Stories of herself, her family, Gia Giudice, and Louie Ruelas at the pop-up DAmelio Footwear event in Los Angeles. Photo: Jacqueline Laurita/Instagram Gias 2023 has been quite eventful. In addition to her European travels which included stops in France and Greece the New Jersey daughter celebrated her college graduation, enjoyed parties with friends, and took a trip to Los Angeles, where she hung out with RHONJ alum Jacqueline Laurita and Vanderpump Rules cast member Scheana Shay. The Bravo crossover went down during a fashion pop-up event at The Grove, which Gia attended alongside her stepdad, Luis Louie Ruelas. Jacqueline and Scheana were also accompanied by their families and shared their Gia encounters on Instagram. [Teresa] we made some cute girls, Scheana captioned a photo of her daughter, Summer Moon, next to Gia. Summer Moon Davies and Gia Giudice at an event together; a plane landing in Los Angeles. Gia Giudice posts a series of Instagram Stories illustrating her time in Los Angeles. Photo: Gia Giudice/Instagram Safarak Travel and Tourism, a member of RAK Hospitality Holding -- a Ras Al Khaimah Government company that manages a diverse portfolio of hotels, hospitality, and leisure assets in the emirate, has appointed Kylee Renee Haines as the Director of Events. With a strong career spanning over 26 years in the landscape of business events and hotel industry, Haines brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role. In her capacity as Director of Events, Haines will play a vital role in supporting the development of Ras Al Khaimah's annual events calendar along with Safarak Travel and Tourisms wider team, contributing to the Emirate's reputation as a global tourism destination. Cathy Mead, General Manager, Safarak Travel and Tourism, expressed her excitement about Haines appointment, saying: We are delighted to welcome Kylee to our team. Her extensive experience and remarkable leadership in the events and hospitality industry make her the perfect fit to lead our events division. We look forward to achieving new heights together. Throughout her career she has led the successful planning and execution of over 500 events across the Middle East, spanning countries including the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Egypt, and Lebanon. Since her relocation to the UAE in 2008, Haines made noteworthy contributions to organisations such as the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF) as Event Project Director, where she demonstrated her prowess in organizing impactful events, followed by a significant role in Expo 2020 Dubai showcased her capabilities on a global scale. Haines journey includes pivotal roles with entities such as the Emirates Group, Arabian Adventures, Congress Solutions International, and the MCI Group, reaffirming her leadership in event management. She has also served as Associate Director of Sales Groups and Events at the prestigious Jumeirah Group, contributing to the growth of the meetings, incentives, conferences, and events (MICE) market segment. In addition, she has left her mark on educational institutions, including Dubai College of Tourism, The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management, and Liverpool John Moores University in the UK, demonstrating her commitment to education and global influence. - TradeArabia News Service AFP Israel prosiguio el martes su ofensiva terrestre en Gaza a la vez que bombardeo un campo de refugiados, una accion que segun Hamas dejo decenas de muertos, para "eliminar" a un dirigente de la organizacion islamista implicado en el letal ataque del 7 de octubre.El ejercito israeli aseguro que en esa accion mato al comandante de Hamas Ibrahim Biari, implicado en la incursion del 7 de octubre en la cual los milicianos islamistas mataron a 1.400 personas, en su mayoria civiles, y secuestraron a una Heather Dubrow is embracing her natural beauty. After sharing a few snaps from her Mexican vacation, The Real Housewives of Orange County mom gave fans an inside look at how she prepares her skin for a sun-soaked day in Cabo San Lucas. Heather who took the trip alongside her husband, Dr. Terry Dubrow filmed a quick get ready with me video in which she showcased a cute bikini look and some of her favorite products for the makeup-free outing. Im looking a little rough, she said in the September 15 TikTok and Instagram videos. I have decided that Im not working out today; Im just gonna go to the pool and Im just gonna chill out all day. So excited. Were having the best time in Cabo. I posted a couple of pictures but lets get ready to go to the pool. Heather Dubrow shares her skincare essentials Heather immediately dove into her skincare routine and revealed some of the new products her facialist, Candice Miele, had recommended. The OC mom said she received a non-peel peel a week before her Mexico trip and was given two topicals that would boost and maintain the results. One was the BioReHydra revitalization hydration serum, and the other was the BioReLift revitalizing firming cream. I cant remember how many days she said to use it for, but I dont know, Im gonna keep using it. Its nice, she said as she applied the products to her face, arms, and neck. By the way, a little pro tip: All of my extra creams from my face, I put them on my hands and arms. Why not? Heather then applied the Xterna-Q serum, the Champagne Lift cream, the retinol eye cream, and the collagen neck cream from Consult Beaute, an anti-aging skincare line she and Terry developed. All right. I mean thats it, she said. All Im gonna put on now is my sunscreen. So, you wanna see my outfit? Heather Dubrows Luxe Pool-Day Look Heather Grwm Heather Dubrow shows off her pool-day look in Cabo San Lucas. Photo: Heather Dubrow/TikTok Heather then laid out her pool-day ensemble, which included a black Vix bikini with gold details, a pair of black Christian Louboutin flip-flops, a brown Valentino straw hat, a Louis Vuitton monogram tote bag, and a white crochet tunic she borrowed from her oldest daughter. Headshot image of Heather Dubrow smiling at Hollywood Today Heather Gives an Honest Look at Her Glam Process in "Instagram vs Reality" Post I havent tried this on yet, she said about the latter piece, but I stole this from Max. Its from Frankies Bikinis. Isnt that cute? All right, lets see how that comes together. The video then cut to Heather showing off her pool-day look, which Terry gave his stamp of approval. I like it, he said from behind the camera. I love it. Its gorgeous. Super cute. Whats next for Heather and Terry Dubrow? Heather and Terry smiling together in front of a step and repeat. Terry and Heather visit Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen on April 13, 2022 in New York City. Photo: Bravo Heather is now preparing to fly to France to attend Paris Fashion Week and celebrate Terrys 65th birthday. The plastic surgeon revealed the plan while speaking to E! News last month, saying he and Heather preferred quick little trips over extended getaways. Heather and I she got invited to a Louis Vuitton fashion show in Paris, so were going to take that invitation and make sort of a birthday trip to France and celebrate there, he said in the August 24 article. Weve been married a long time and Im not the most romantic guy in the world, but we do little trips. Rather than go on long vacations, we try to do little frequent trips. Jimmy Doherty s New Zealand Escape on Channel 4 will introduce us to some stunning scenery. Jimmy Dohertys New Zealand Escape is a new Channel 4 series that sees the TV presenter and pig farmer travelling from the frozen south to the tropical north of New Zealand to explore the countrys wild beauty. "New Zealand is full of extraordinary landscapes," says Jimmy. When I think of New Zealand I think of white wine and lots of sheep but its a land of extremes, fire and ice, verdant pastures and beautiful waterways." So here's eveything you need to know about Jimmy Dohertys New Zealand Escape on Channel 4... Jimmy Dohertys New Zealand Escape release date Jimmy Dohertys New Zealand Escape is a four part series that starts on Channel 4 on Monday 18 September at 8pm with episodes running at the same time each week. The full series will be available as a box set on the Channel 4 streaming service. We'll update here with any international air dates. Enjoying the cookery of the regions and talking to producers.. What happens in Jimmy Dohertys New Zealand Escape Jimmy Dohertys New Zealand Escape sees him chat to people who work on the land and seas, from the chilly southern reaches of the country to the more tropical northernmost tip. He will be including a trip to the top of New Zealand's tallest mountain, Mount Cook. "I wanted to explore the unique ways of farming, fishing and fermenting," says Jimmy who begins the four-part series in the southernmost tip of New Zealands Stewart Island where he meets fisherman Nate Smith to catch Blue Cod. Later, he goes to the mainland where he meets farmer Laura Koot whos set up the Fairlight Foundation, an organisation teaching farming skills to young women. He also meets husband and wife team John and Susie Elliot, who run a 10,000 acre farm and own Lammermoor Distillery in Central Otago which uses grain they harvest to make whisky and gin, before flying to the top of New Zealands tallest mountain, Mount Cook, to explore the glaciers. "The people here blow me away," says Jimmy. "What you see is the incredible innovation that comes from living in very isolated areas. Its inspirational!" Jimmy Doherty meets distillery owners John and Susie Elliot. Jimmy Dohertys New Zealand Escape episode guide Here's our brief episode guide for Jimmy Dohertys New Zealand Escape, which we'll be updating as the series progresses. Episode 1: Monday September 18 Heading from the Southernmost island of New Zealand, the tiny Stewart Island, Jimmy learns to gravity-fish for plate size fish for the local restaurant trade. He then travels via beach motorcycle to a female-run farm that specialises in sheep and deer, before making his way inland to New Zealands oldest illegal distillery, where they are still making superb whiskey. Episode 2: Monday September 25 Jimmy learns why Clydesdale horses still rule supreme as farm workers over tractors and trucks, before heading to Lake Ellesmere, a traditional food source for Maori people, providing them with an abundance of eels. Jimmy visits Christchurch and the worlds first food truck, Nins Bin, where he enjoys the roadside attractions locally caught crayfish, and he joins a thirdgeneration crayfisherman to check crayfish pots set just off the coast. Episodes 3 and 4 We'll update here so do check back Enjoying the cookery of the regions and talking to producers.. Is there a trailer for Jimmy Dohertys New Zealand Escape? Sadly there's no trailer for Jimmy Dohertys New Zealand Escape so you'll just have to tune in to all four episodes to see what a stunning series this is. Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchells Good Burger 2 will be arriving just in time for Thanksgiving. According to Deadline, the long-awaited film will drop on the Paramount+ streaming platform on Nov. 22 in the United States and Canada. Viewers in the United Kingdom and Australia will receive it the following day (Nov. 23). Good Burger 2 follows the 1997 hit Good Burger, a teen comedy that spawned from a skit on the Nickelodeon series All That. Thompson and Mitchell starred as the iconic characters Dexter Reed and Ed, respectively, a couple of fast food employees who found themselves taking down their sinister competitor, Mondo Burger. In the sequel, the duo return to the Good Burger restaurant 26 years later with an updated team of co-workers. Newcomers Alex R. Hibbert, Fabrizio Guido, Lil Rel Howery, Jillian Bell, Kamaia Fairburn, Anabel Graetz, and Elizabeth Hinkle join original cast members like Lori Beth Denberg , Carmen Electra, and Josh Server. I cant believe its been a little over 25 years since great customer service was born at Good Burger! said Thompson via press release when Good Burger 2 was officially announced back in March. Being part of something so many generations of people have come to love has made me so proud and now to be back where it all began working on the sequel is surreal! Love performing with my brother Kel and cant wait to show the fans what these two characters have been up to since we last saw them. Mitchell added, Ed is one of those timeless characters that has brought so much joy and laughter to fans, and its such an amazing blessing to still be doing it after all these years. Its super awesome to come back and continue the stories of Dex, Ed and Good Burger for both the people who grew up watching and their kids! Trending Stories Russell Brands personal life was once the subject of regular media headlines, surrounded by scandal and controversy due to his very public antics. In recent years, however, Brand, 44, appears to have made efforts to keep his home life out of the spotlight, following a tumultuous marriage and subsequent divorce from pop star Katy Perry. While the comedian, actor and presenter is back in the headlines as he denies allegations of rape and sexual assault, little is known about his wife of six years, Laura Gallacher. Follow The Independents live coverage for the latest updates The couple have three children together and dated briefly before Brands first marriage to Perry in 2010, while he was still growing his comedy career. They then reconnected after splitting from their respective partners. Gallachers father is Scottish golfer Bernard Gallacher OBE, formerly a Ryder Cup captain for several European teams. Growing up in Surrey, England, she was raised on the Wentworth Estate, a sprawling estate in Runnymede comprising several luxury houses. She is the sister of broadcaster and radio presenter Kirsty Gallacher, who rose to fame as a Sky Sports presenter in the late Nineties and has more recently presented for GB News and Smooth Radio. It was, in fact, Kirsty who introduced her sister to Brand back in 2007, when Gallacher was 19 and Brand was 30. She fully loves me for what I am, Brand once told Stylist. Shes not interested in the famous person at all. They dated briefly but split soon after, and Brand went on to marry Perry in 2010. The couple separated just two years later, with Brand telling the California Gurls singer he was filing for divorce via text, just moments before she was due to go onstage. Gallacher, who works in fashion, was once interviewed about her relationship with Brand on the Made By Mammas podcast. I hadnt seen Russell for years, Gallacher recalled. He was so different. We both immediately knew it was going to be serious. (Alamy) She explained: You have to rebuild your foundations and trust again, we did it the right way. It was very slow, it was getting to know each other and going out on day trips together. She recalled to Grazia that the day they ran into one another, in 2015, her ex had literally moved out of our flat that day and I was heartbroken, with mascara running down my face. A friend dragged me out on a walk to the canal in east London, where Id never been in my life, and as we came on to the footpath Russell was standing there, like hed organised it, she said. After they resumed dating, she told You: I remember him saying, I think I want a quiet life and a family, and it was exactly what I wanted. So, then it was about seeing if we could build a foundation to make that happen. Brand and Gallachers first child, daughter Mabel, was born in 2016. They married a year later in August, in an intimate church ceremony near their home in Henley-on-Thames, Oxon. The nuptials were attended by close friends and family, along with a then-nine-month-old Mabel. Their second daughter, Peggy, was born in 2018. A year later, Brand came under fire for admitting he left Gallacher to do the majority of the parenting, claiming he was useless at basic duties such as nappy-changing and mealtimes. (Alamy) Brand went on to praise Gallachers parenting skills, describing her as astonishing. Asked why he doesnt take on more of the practical tasks of parenting, the Get Him To The Greek star said hes still of a romantic and reflective... disposition, adding that he often feels inept when looking after his youngest child. In a 2017 interview, Brand told The Guardian that he was enjoying a new-found domesticity with Gallacher. Ive never had domesticity before, he said. Most of my life has been an extension of the grandiose idea of what glamour would look like if it had to have a kitchen. And I feel sometimes like a refugee in my house with this woman, this calm, beautiful woman, who in the most beautiful way possible doesnt care about what I do. Shes not interested, in the most delightful way. Oh, that sounds nice. In June, Brand revealed that he and Gallacher were expecting their third child while appearing on the podcast The Diary of a CEO. It is believed that Gallacher has since given birth. While she previously had an Instagram account under the name Laura Brand, with over 145,000 followers, it appears to have been deleted. As well as fashion, Gallacher has written and illustrated several books, including The Joy Journal for Magical Everyday Play: Easy Activities & Creative Craft for Kids and Their Grown-ups. In March 2022, Brand promoted Gallachers latest book, Slow Down and Be Here Now: You might not know that my wife @thejoyjournal writes children books thats because I only talk about myself! he wrote in the caption. But this book she wrote teaching children to be present in the moments and appreciate nature, is fantastic. And god knows if you are a parent you need it! Brand and Gallacher also run The Stay Free Foundation together, which supports people with addiction and mental health issues. Pensacola is getting a taste of The Big Easy through Louisiana-based cafe PJs Coffee, that just opened to the public Friday at its 85 W. Airport Blvd. location. From the French bistro chairs to the smell of the freshly fried, hand-powdered beignets, the coffee shop transports you to the New Orleans French Quarter. Co-franchisees Michele and Don Carlton also offer a little bit of small-town Louisiana hospitality. Im a Louisiana girl, so PJs is home, Michele said with her bedazzled French fleur-de-lis symbol necklace strung over her PJs T-shirt. It has always been my dream to open a coffee shop. Owners Don and Michele Carlton talk about opening the PJ's Coffee of New Orleans at 85 West Airport Boulevard in Pensacola on Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023. Like other Louisiana natives, Pensacola Beach was the vacation spot her family would drive to when she was a young girl. When she and her husband had the opportunity to open three stores in Pensacola as franchisees, they jumped at it and began the process of making the move. They are still celebrating the milestone of getting their first store open, which stretched into a three-year process, before they start looking for spaces to host the other two locations. From the sheer number of people that have been peeking in the windows anticipating opening day, the two anticipate that Pensacola is prepared for a place to find the bold cup of coffee that New Orleans is accustomed to. Just to bring people together over a really good cup of coffee and just enjoy time together, Don said of his hopes for the cafe. Meet PJ's neighbor, Dirty Dough: This new Pensacola cookie shop is getting its customers down and 'dirty' in the best way. Even though her husband isnt much of a coffee drinker himself, it wasnt a hard for sell for Michele to convince him to buy into the company, since he loved that they source their coffee beans in a way that ensured their employees and partners are cared for. The coffee beans come directly from farms in Honduras and Nicaragua, and through proceeds of the partnership the farmers have been able to invest in things such as improvements to local a church, emergency vehicles for employees who need medical care, improved living quarters and cooking facilities, and environmentally-friendly growing and harvesting practices. "They're investing in the farm and the farmers in order to get a better product," Don said. "So, it's not just, Hey, we're just gonna go buy a bunch of beans. They care about where it comes from. They care about the people there (and are) taking care of the people." Among the coffee franchises claim to fame is the Original Cold Brew that store manager and longtime PJs employee Ryan Perrilloux said no other competing coffee shops were brewing at the time. Now, PJ's has mastered the craft even more, with flavored, but unsweetened varieties like Southern Pecan and Praline & Cream. General manager Ryan Perrilloux tops a Southern Pecan Cold Brew with sweet cold foam at PJ's Coffee of New Orleans at 85 West Airport Boulevard in Pensacola on Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023. Among the coffee drinks, which have twice as much espresso per shot as Starbucks, according to Perrilloux, the most popular drink amongst customers is the signature granita, a frozen coffee beverage that comes straight out of the machine like a frozen daquiri. It can come classic, highlighting the bold coffee flavor, or with sweeter flavors like mocha, caramel, or the limited edition 45th PJs birthday cake flavor. Once the birthday flavors disappear at the end of the month, it will be time for the fall flavors to roll in, like all things pumpkin spice. A Chai Velvet Ice drink at PJ's Coffee of New Orleans at 85 West Airport Boulevard in Pensacola on Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023. If youre not a coffee drinker though, you can still pop in for a drink to take to the beach like the frozen hot chocolate or frozen lemonade. The shop makes ordering quick with a drive-thru window and mobile order station. Even the shops heartier options like the freshly-made egg and cheese croissants and Cuban sandwiches can be hot and ready by the time the customer makes it to the window. Ultimately, the Carltons are looking forward to becoming part of the Pensacola community. Follow along the PJs Coffee (85 West Airport Blvd, Ste 1, Pensacola, FL) Facebook page for more information. This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: PJ's Coffee opens in Pensacola on Airport Boulevard US alt-rock acts Incubus and Live will headline the inaugural Lookout Festival tour in April 2024. The festival will visit Bribie Island and Southport, QLD, Mornington, VIC, and Hilarys, WA. The two international acts will be joined by Australian rock groups Birds of Tokyo, Eskimo Joe and The Superjesus. Lookout was announced alongside details of Live and Incubus 2024 Australian co-headline tour, which is sending the two bands to arenas in Wollongong, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide. Live and Incubus both toured Australia, separately, in March 2018. This will be their first co-headline tour. Live Dolphins Cry Live were due to visit Australia in April 2020 as part of the Under the Southern Stars rock carnival. The lineup also included Bush, Stone Temple Pilots, Rose Tattoo and Electric Mary, but the tour was scrapped due to Covid. It has been way too long, Live frontperson Ed Kowalczyk said in a statement. I couldnt be happier that Live is finally returning to Australia for the first time in 5 years. And the icing on the cake is going to be sharing the stage with Incubus for the first time. I have always been a fan of their deep vibes, intellectual lyrics, and ground-breaking musical style. Lookout Festival 2024 Live Incubus Eskimo Joe Birds of Tokyo The Superjesus Dates & Venues Saturday, 6th April Sandstone Point Hotel, Bribie Island QLD Sunday, 7th April Broadwater Parklands, Southport QLD Saturday, 13th April Mornington Racecourse, Mornington VIC Saturday, 20th April Whitfords Nodes Park, Hillarys WA More info here Further Reading Live and Incubus Announce 2024 Australian Co-Headline Tour Lineup Announced for 2023 Melbourne Royal Show After Dark: Hot Dub Time Machine, Sneaky Sound System + More Lisa Mitchell, Eskimo Joes Kav Temperley to Star in Yesterdays Gone Fleetwood Mac Show The post Lookout Festival 2024: Incubus, Live, Birds of Tokyo + More appeared first on Music Feeds. EXCLUSIVE: MAD Solutions has acquired world sales rights to Egyptian director Amr Salama s short film 60 Egyptian Pounds ahead of its world premiere as the opening film of the upcoming El Gouna Film Festival. Salama is one of Egypts most popular directors with recent credits including Shahid-commissioned drama Bimbo, starring Ahmed Malek as a drug dealer-turned-detective; fantasy feature Bara El Manhag, Netlfix series Paranormal and Toronto hit Sheikh Jackson. More from Deadline 60 Egyptian Pounds grew out of Salamas fascination and love of Egypts burgeoning hip-hop scene as well as desire to shed light on domestic abuse. The short stars real-life Egyptian rap star Ziad Zaza, in his first big screen role, as a fictitious rapper with an abusive father, who takes it upon himself to end his familys suffering once and for all. Working on 60 pounds was a liberating and refreshing experience, says Salama. I was curious to explore this art form and the background of its leading artists and to add the storytelling element to it in order to take this authenticity and turn it into a compelling story. Ziad Zaza is one of Egypts most prominent rap artists scene, thanks to debut album El Rays and You Tube trending tracks such as Karreta Sarrefa, Zaza, Basha, Leh Tedaye, and Dayra. The short was produced by alternative Egyptian music label Beatroot Records and Cinerama Films. From the very first meeting we knew there was something special happening and that we had to trust in the process all the way till the end in order to get it out to the world in the most real and authentic fashion. And its exactly what we did, said Beatroot Records founder Omar Gawdat, who is also Zazas manager. Further cast members included Tarek El-Deweri, Hamza Diab, and Rawheya Salem. The crew featured DoP Ahmed Tarek Bayoumi, whose credits include Cannes-winning short film I Am Afraid to Forget Your Face, and editor Ahmed Hafez (Moon Knight and Inshallah A Boy). Sales and distribution, PR and management firm MAD Solutions previously worked with Salamas on his 2017 feature Sheikh Jackson. Amr Salama is a seasoned filmmaker whose films have been nothing but revolutionary since the beginning, which is why we did not hesitate to acquire 60 Pounds and nurture yet another one of his projects, said MAD Solutions co-heads Alaa Karkouti and Maher Diab. While the film does focus on one type of community in particular, its core concepts are universal and will not only appeal to hip-hop fans but to everyone who comes across the short film in one way or another. The pair said the short chimed with MADs founding ambition to promote and distribute the best Arab media has to offer. The El Gouna Film Festival runs October 13 to 20, 2023 after a one-year hiatus. cnx.cmd.push(function() { cnx({ settings: { plugins: { pmcAtlasMG: { iabPlcmt: 1, } } }, playerId: "1d932e57-b397-4448-b4b7-d30563744457", mediaId: "60efda06-d4b1-40aa-9afc-df721403c364", }).render("connatix_contextual_player_60efda06-d4b1-40aa-9afc-df721403c364_1"); }); Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Avli Inspired Greek opens Sept. 20 at 1818 N. Hubbard St. in Brewer's Hill. The space was formerly home to View MKE, Wolf Peach and Roots. Last October, Avli, a chain of Chicago-area restaurants specializing in regional Greek cuisine, announced it would be moving into the former View MKE space in Brewers Hill. Now the restaurant has set an opening date. The Milwaukee location, named Avli Inspired Greek will open its doors at 1818 N. Hubbard St. on Sept. 20. "Avlis decision to come to Milwaukee was easy, as we feel there has never been a better time to eat and drink here, Avli founder and CEO Louie Alexakis said in a news release. We are thrilled to join Milwaukees hospitality community, and to bring our contemporary, yet approachable Greek cuisine out-of-state for the first time. The Milwaukee restaurant is one of six Avli locations, and the only one outside the Chicagoland area. Avli features two floors of dining space with 90 indoor seats and 155 seats on the outdoor deck and terrace overlooking the Milwaukee skyline. A crisp, modern interior and plenty of patio seating The two-level restaurant space, which was also previously home to restaurants Wolf Peach and Roots, is known for its sweeping view of the downtown Milwaukee skyline as well as its lush patio space. In fact, the patio space was one of the reasons the location was selected, according to Alexakis. The upper patio is filled with dining tables and boasts an unbeatable view of the downtown skyline. The lower patio has multiple lounge areas with fire tables, more dining tables and high-top tables. Hanging string lights add soft ambiance. There are 155 seats outside between the upper deck and the outdoor terrace. The interior dining room has two floors and 90 seats. The space, designed by Chicagos Gold Coast Interiors, has been transformed from dark and cozy to airy and bright. The minimalist design features white walls with sage green trim and art made from natural elements. Bamboo rattan lamps hang from the ceiling and illuminate the simple table settings and corded indoor-outdoor chairs. Avli features earth tones, crisp whites and natural elements. The newly renovated space is meant to evoke the experience of summer in Greece. Modern Greek fare to be served Avli will serve modern Greek fare with a menu by Executive Chef Babis Tsotras, who previously was at the Grand Resort Lagonissi in Athens, Greece, and Avli on The Park in Chicago. Diners can expect small plates, salads, spreads, authentic Greek entrees and desserts. Favorite dishes from Avlis other restaurants will be on the menu, including kataifi prawns with shredded filo and spicy aioli; chicken souvlaki skewers with roasted vegetables; spanakopita with house-made filo, spinach, feta and onion; oven-baked Greek-style chicken; and grilled lamb chops. There are two full bars at Avli, one on each level. House cocktails are twists on classics and signature favorites like the Teach Me to Dance, made with tea-infused vodka, bergamot orange, thyme, honey and lemon. The restaurant's selection of Greek wines includes crisp whites from Santorini, rose from ancient Nemea, and reds from north of Mount Olympus. Avli Inspired Greek will be open for daily dinner service beginning at 5 p.m. daily. Lunch, weekend brunch, takeout and happy-hour service will be rolled out in the coming months. Reservations can be made online (avli.us/avli-milwaukee), and walk-ins are welcome. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Modern Greek restaurant Avli set to open in former View MKE space Russell Brand is reportedly facing new accusations from more women, following a published article of allegations of rape, sexual assault and abuse by five women on Saturday. Several more women have come forward to the U.K. newspaper, The Times, in the wake of the claims that the British actor, author and comedian raped a woman against a wall in 2012, sexually assaulted a colleague in 2013 and physically and emotionally abused ex-girlified Jordan Martin. Government minister Caroline Nokes has called for Scotland Yard to investigate the allegations against Brand. These allegations are incredibly shocking and criminal, and I would very much hope that complaints will be made both to the Metropolitan police and indeed in the States, because this merits and needs a criminal investigation, because for too long we have seen men and the perpetrators of these sorts of crimes are almost invariably men not being held to account for their behaviors and their actions, the Women and Equalities Select Committee chairman told BBC Radio 4s Today. The Metropolitan Police said it is aware of the reporting and is encouraging victims of sexual assault to contact the force. We are aware of media reporting of a series of allegations of sexual assault. At this time, we have not received any reports in relation to this. If anyone believes they have been the victim of a sexual assault, no matter how long ago it happened, we would encourage them to contact police, a police spokesperson stated. The English funnyman is already feeling the brunt of the controversy. The remaining dates of his Bipolarisation tour have been postponed by promoters, according to Variety. A talent agency and a book publisher reportedly also severed ties with Brand. Brand, 48, denies the allegations and claims his relationships and encounters were absolutely always consensual, despite his promiscuous past. He described the reports as a litany of extremely egregious and aggressive attacks. The former BBC radio presenter initially found widespread fame as a host on MTV U.K. before getting cast in Hollywood hits including Forgetting Sarah Marshall and the remake of Arthur in 2011. Brand was married to pop star Katy Perry from 2010 to 2013. Tootsie's Orchid Lounge Annual Birthday Bash - Credit: Jason Kempin/Getty Images Oliver Anthony set foot in Nashville for the first time this weekend, making his Music City debut not at the Grand Ole Opry or the Ryman Auditorium, but at the annual birthday-party-slash-block-party thrown by Tootsies Orchid Lounge. The honky-tonk marked its 63rd anniversary with its usual shut-down-the-street blowout and a lineup featuring Jamey Johnson , Randy Houser, Lee Brice, and X-rated country character Wheeler Walker Jr. But it was Anthony who brought the most buzz, as well as his Bible. After joining Johnson and Houser onstage for a rendition of Johnsons In Color, Anthony opened to Matthew 10:26-33 and read a passage about how there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed. Then he and his guitarist, Joey Davis, sang an original titled Cobwebs and Cocaine. More from Rolling Stone Of course, the gathered crowd a mix of locals, tourists, and sad San Diego Chargers fans who watched their team lose to the Tennessee Titans a few hours earlier were clamoring for Rich Men North of Richmond, Anthonys two-week Number One single that catapulted him into the public eye, onto Joe Rogans podcast, and, most recently, between presidential hopeful Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and wife Cheryl Hines for a photo op. But this version of Rich Men was different: For the first time, it featured a full band. Housers band backed him, in fact; they learned the song prior to the performance and gave the previously bare-bones lament a shot of country swing. Anthony acknowledged the crowd on multiple occasions and seemed awed by both the reception and the canyon of neon lights framing the bars of Lower Broadway in front of him. Beer was everywhere, and at one point during Rich Men a female fan started gyrating, while over Anthonys shoulder, a billboard flashed ads for new albums by Brothers Osborne and Tyler Childers. It was an odd scene, but one that further proved the populist appeal of the Virginia songwriter even if it still seems to befuddle Anthony himself. Im the biggest sorry sack of shit in this town, he said before reading his Bible verse, so dont think Im coming off preaching to you. Best of Rolling Stone Click here to read the full article. Oscar Piastri faced a difficult evening on the streets of Singapore ahead of Sunday's race, but the McLaren rookie rose to the challenge to bag a remarkable seventh-place finish at Marina Bay. Starting his race from P17 on the grid, Piastri faced a steep climb up a tricky hill. But from the outset the 22-year-old put his head down, clocking in 14th at the end of the opening lap where he remained until his only pitstop on lap 20. Relying on a medium-to-hard conservative tyre strategy, the McLaren charger had gained a couple of positions thanks to his team's swift execution. By lap 39 of 62, Piastri was into the top ten, his progress carrying him up to P7 during the race's Virtual Safety Car as he remained on course while others boxed. He eventually gave way to Max Verstappen with ten laps to go but reclaimed seventh thanks to George Russell's late retirement. Read also: It was a job well done by the Aussie who felt that he had made the most of the circumstances. "Starting 17th in Singapore is never the most exciting prospect, so to come away with P7 after all that is a fantastic result," he said, tired but happy. "I dont think we could have done more than that, so Im very happy. A great result for the team as well, great points." McLaren F1 boss Andrea Stella highlighted the team's impeccable execution while explaining its decision to take a conservative approach to the race in terms of strategy. "With Oscar, wed been discussing since [Saturday]; do we want to be sort of aggressive with a strategy, similar to what Alfa Romeo did like you pit on lap one and then you tried to undercut everyone or we just let the race come to us by staying out of trouble and everything? "We knew we had pace in the car, not the pace to stay with the lead cars, but I think even the old car was good enough to score points. "We opted to go for the second option, so started on medium rather than soft and then stayed out of trouble. "That paid off massively last year if you remember, we finished fourth and fifth and we sort of had the same mindset and during this race." But for the strategy to pay dividends, it required a flawless execution by both team and driver. "It requires like no mistakes, capitalise on your opportunities, overtake when you are in condition to do so, and when the tyres get difficult, just cope with that and keep being consistent and having good pace," added Stella. "Thats what Oscar did, and for a rookie, its quite impressive." Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter Ukraine has selected the Sundance competition title 20 Days In Mariupol, from journalist-turned-filmmaker Mstyslav Chernov , as its entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2024 Oscars. The film was chosen by the Ukrainian Oscar Committee, headed by Ukrainian film director Valentin Vasyanovych. Alongside 20 Days In Mariupol, shortlisted films included Iron Butterflies by Roman Lyuboy, Pamfir by Dmytro Suholytky-Sobchuk, Terikony by Taras Tomenkom, and SHTTL by Adrien Walter. More from Deadline At Sundance, 20 Days In Mariupol was awarded the Audience Award for World Cinema Documentary. Since then, the doc has picked up a series of prizes across the festival circuit, including Sheffield DocFests Tim Hetherington Award, Best Film at DocuDays, Best Director at DocEdge, and filmmakers Chernov, Vasilisa Stepanenko , Evgeniy Maloletka, and Lori Hinnant won the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service reporting for their work in Mariupol. A native Ukrainian and Associated Press journalist, 20 Days In Mariupol marks Chernovs documentary feature debut. The pic offers a first-person account of the 20 days he and his AP colleagues Maloletka and Stepanenko spent documenting Russias invasion of Mariupol, Ukraine. The doc captures shocking images of Russian troops targeting civilians, killing children, the elderly, and thousands of others. Among the atrocities was the Russian bombing of a maternity hospital. The film also shows the challenges Chernov faced trying to upload the footage he and his colleagues were taking. Sometimes he could use a satellite phone; other times Ukrainian military officials would guide him to one of the few places in Mariupol still with an internet connection. The film is a co-production between The Associated Press and FRONTLINE. Dogwoof is handling all sales on the pic, excluding North America, where PBS Distribution has acquired rights. Heres the list of category submissions so far: Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Queer Eye star Karamo Brown has revealed that he wasn't invited to co-star Antoni Porowski 's bachelor party. Appearing on SiriusXMs Andy Cohen Live, Brown said that out of the Fab Five only Tan France was invited to the celebration in Tennessee's Blackberry Mountain. Brown, Bobby Berk and Jonathan Van Ness were absent from the party ahead of Porowski's upcoming wedding to fiance Kevin Harrington. Christopher Polk/Getty Images Related: Queer Eye 's Tan France reacts to bride's ghost sex confession "The shade of it all," Brown told host Andy Cohen. "Bobby was not invited, I was not invited, and Jonathan was not invited just Tan was invited. The shade!" During the chat, Cohen recalled a previous conversation with Bobby Berk, saying Brown's co-star made it seem like the rest of the gang couldn't make it. "Bobby made it seem like, 'Oh we couldn't make it but Tan was able to make it,'" Cohen told Brown. "Nooo. Listen, I'm all about being real and being upfront. We weren't invited," Brown clarified to the host. Despite not being invited to the event, Brown said there were no hard feelings. "When it comes to events like that like family things, weddings it costs money, so I don't take offence to it," he said. Cindy Ord - Getty Images Related: Queer Eye 's Bobby Berk pays tribute to father after his death Speaking about the upcoming nuptials, Brown said he thinks the cast will be invited. "But if we were not, I would be okay because people who get married, you understand what it costs per plate," he explained. Explaining that he didn't take any offence, Brown said he wouldn't invite Porowski to a bachelor party if he was having one. "I drink... I'm doing, you know, having a good time," Brown said. "And he's not he's sober. So 'I'm not gonna invite you, girl, so that you can be over in the corner'... Like, no. So again, no shade." Queer Eye airs on Netflix. You Might Also Like As polarizing he might be, Sean Penn is no stranger to humanitarian efforts and crusading around the globe, as detailed in the documentary Citizen Penn. Penn was in Ukraine when Russian bombs started falling in February 2022, which turns Superpower into a powerful chronicle of Ukrainian courage and resistance, in a way that reflects Penns passion as opposed to journalistic detachment. Although Penn happened to be in the right (or wrong) place when he was scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Superpower, which Penn directed with Aaron Kaufman, is the product of seven trips to and from Ukraine. That began in late 2021, when the prospect of a Russian invasion remained just an uneasy threat, and Penn was intrigued about telling the tale of the comedian/actor turned real-life politician charged with leading his country after playing one on TV. Penn begins by addressing the nagging questions about his involvement in such matters to people prone to ask, as he puts it, Who do you think you are, Walter Cronkite?, noting that his celebrity gives him the opportunity to travel around the world, and Sometimes, I feel I can be helpful. As his experience in Haiti makes clear, Penn is no dilettante when it comes to taking risks and getting his hands dirty, and he prepares for the task by going out to listen to smart people, among them Steven Pifer, former US ambassador to Ukraine; Vitali Klitschko, the boxer turned mayor of Kyiv; and retired lieutenant colonel Alexander Vindman, former director for European Affairs for the United States National Security Council. Sean Penn and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in November 2022. - President of Ukraine/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images Those interviews bring useful historical context to the film before the shooting starts, including the 2014 protests, Russian annexation of Crimea and Ukraines track record when it comes to oligarchs and corruption. His conversations with the Ukrainian people prove equally enlightening, both before the war when many expressed doubts about Zelensky and during it. Penn also includes his efforts outside Ukraine, such as appearance on Sean Hannitys program after the war erupted despite his distrust of Fox News, noting that if Zelensky can exhibit such inspiring courage he can endure an interview to help publicize his cause. Amid harrowing footage of Russian atrocities, Penn doesnt hide his admiration for the Ukrainian peoples spirit and what amounts to envy of their unity, something that, as the wariness of his exchange with Hannity underscores, is sorely lacking in the US. Although the title can be interpreted different ways, Penn has embraced that his superpower is his celebrity, which enables him to help call attention to stories especially those transpiring beyond US borders that might struggle otherwise. (The problem of short attention spans for world crises gets addressed within the film, with clips of the Will Smith Oscar slap and Johnny Depp-Amber Heard trial to illustrate the point.) Of course, there are those quick to deride or dismiss actors like Penn stepping off the soundstage and into such roles. Still, if youve read this far and might not have clicked on a review about another Ukraine documentary, guess what? He made you look. Superpower premieres September 18 on Paramount+. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Sir Keir Starmer has met Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during a trip to Montreal, in a visit that has seen him stress the importance of border security. The Labour leader is in Canada for a summit of political leaders, as he seeks to burnish his image on the world stage. Norways premier Jonas Gahr Store and Jacinda Ardern, former prime minister of New Zealand, are among the other leading names at the event for progressive politicians this weekend. After the talks with Mr Trudeau, Sir Keir is expected to visit to Paris next week to meet French president Emmanuel Macron. A Labour spokesperson said that Sir Keir and Mr Trudeau discussed the moment is now for progressive governments, in response to the pace of change people across the world are facing. They added: The two leaders discussed the opportunity presented by a transition to clean energy, for jobs, investment and the economy. They talked about the power of rules-based collaboration and the role of active, muscular centre-left governments in providing the answers to modern public challenges. The visit to Canada has seen the Labour leader push the importance of securing Britains borders, calling it an acute security concern. He has also warned of the joint challenges that make up an axis of instability both in the UK and internationally. Speaking at an event alongside the Norwegian prime minister, Sir Keir said: In principle its wrong to think that control of the border is not a progressive issue. Because if you lose control of the border, a number of things happen thats when in certain places you get into the business of people talking about walls and fences because youve lost control of the border. It goes down this slippery slope. And if you cant have a wall and a fence, you have some of the gimmicks that were seeing in the United Kingdom. The flurry of international engagements has been seen as a bid to appear statesmanlike and boost his leadership credentials ahead of a likely general election next year. Labour officials are emphasising Sir Keirs background as a director of public prosecutions in making the case that he could manage organised immigration crime if handed the keys to No 10. No 10 appeared to downplay the significance of the Opposition leaders expected Paris trip, saying it was not unusual. Sir Keir could also be eyeing a White House meeting with US president Joe Biden in the coming months, whose Bidenomics and landmark green subsidy push has attracted admiration from Labour. The trip to Canada also saw Sir Keir speak with former Bank of England governor Mark Carney, as well as former Swedish prime minister Magdalena Andersson. Shadow foreign secretary David Lammy visited Montreal alongside his party leader, as he hit out at the current ad hoc relationship between the UK and EU and called for more regular formal meetings. We do think that UK relations with the European Union is our top priority. We cant imagine describing, as Liz Truss did, Emmanuel Macron as an enemy, Mr Lammy told The Observer. We think it is bizarre that the UK does not currently under this government have structured dialogue with the European Union in a constructive way. He added: We dont currently meet with the European Union to discuss mutual issues of concern, whether on a biannual basis or on a quarterly basis. At the moment there is nothing. It is all ad hoc. We have got to get back to structured dialogue. U.S. Military Asks Public to Help Find Its Missing $80M Stealth Fighter After Pilot Ejects The F-35 aircraft went missing somewhere over South Carolina on Sunday The U.S. military is searching for a missing $80 million stealth fighter and they need the general public to help them find it. On Sunday, Joint Base Charleston air base in South Carolina noted in multiple social media posts that it was assisting the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort in searching for a missing F-35B Lightning II after it was involved in a "mishap." "The pilot ejected safely and was transferred to a local medical center in stable condition," the base shared on Facebook. "Emergency response teams are still trying to locate the F-35." "The public is asked to cooperate with military and civilian authorities as the effort continues." Related: Real-Life 'Top Gun' Pilots Are Married and Pregnant and the Baby-to-Be Has Flown at Supersonic Speed! Based on the jets last-known position and in coordination with the FAA, we are focusing our attention north of JB Charleston, around Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion. Joint Base Charleston (@TeamCharleston) September 17, 2023 On X (formerly known as Twitter), Joint Base Charleston reported that the jet's "last-known position" had encouraged them to focus a search on the area "north of JB Charleston, around Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion." Yet it might not be so easy. When the pilot ejected from the aircraft it was still in autopilot mode, base spokesperson Jeremy Huggins told NBC News, meaning it could possibly still be airborne. Huggins also told the Washington Post that the aircraft's transponder was not functional for some reason that we havent yet determined, making it yet more difficult to locate the fighter jet which features stealth technology that deliberately hides it from radar systems. BO AMSTRUP/Ritzau Scanpix/AFP via Getty Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Government officials have since questioned how the jet went missing, including Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina, who asked on X how someone can "lose an F-35." "How is there not a tracking device and were asking the public to what, find a jet and turn it in," she added. Huggins ultimately told the Washington Post that the aircraft is stealth, so it has different coatings and different designs that make it more difficult than a normal aircraft to detect." Related: Airline Passenger Who Lost Wallet on Plane Tracks It to 35 Cities Thanks to His Apple AirTag The base is asking anyone with information that would assist in uncovering the F-35's whereabouts to contact the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Public Affairs Office at 252-466-3827. The local search is also being conducted in coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration. It remains unclear why the pilot ejected from the jet. A spokesperson for Joint Base Charleston did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for additional information on Monday. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Two-time Oscar winner Sean Penn is back on the big screen, looking dramatically stern and bravely romping around in a bulletproof vest as war explodes around him. Only this is no Hollywood movie, but rather a raw, unflinching documentary. Superpower (streaming now on Paramount+) chronicles Penns seven trips to Ukraine before and after Russian forces invaded the sovereign nation in what is now a nearly 600-day conflict that has claimed thousands of lives. Penn, 63, seems to have put acting he had a brief appearance in 2021s Licorice Pizza and was featured in 2022s Gaslit on an almost equal footing with his penchant for being in dangerous places (Syria, Beirut) with often dangerous people (Mexican drug lord El Chapo). In Sean Penn's documentary about Ukraine, "Superpower," he's seen meeting with Ukraine's actor-turned-president Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Feb 24, 2022, the day Russia invaded Ukraine. In Superpower, he acknowledges how this looks. People say, Who do you think you are, do you have a savior complex, do you think youre Walter Cronkite? Penn says the answer is simple: Im curious, and my famous face gets me access. The result is a love letter to both Ukraines actor-turned-president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy who this week will visit the United Nations and meet with President Joe Biden and a populace fighting for its right to exist. Where can I watch 'Superpower'? Superpower is streaming on Paramount+. Why did Sean Penn make 'Superpower'? In "Superpower," Sean Penn speaks with a Ukrainian woman whose apartment was destroyed when Russians shelled her city. Penn initially thought Superpower would be a lighthearted look at a fellow actor (Zelenskyy was a popular TV comedian in Ukraine and Russia) who, rather incredibly, starred in a series called Servant of the People about a high school teacher who becomes president. In 2019, Zelenskyy was elected president of Ukraine partly as a protest vote against a revolving door of corrupt past presidents. Penns first visit to Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital, was in November 2021, three months before Russias invasion. 'You think that's cool?' Sean Penn goes after studio execs' 'daughter' in bizarre comments over AI debate The American actor says his intention was to interview Zelenskyy to find out where the real person began, as this was looking like a movie within a movie within a movie within a movie. When did Sean Penn meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy? As fate had it, Zelenskyy and Penn met on Feb. 23, 2022, one day before Russia launched its invasion along the eastern border of Ukraine. The pair met again the next day, despite word that Chechen hit squads were looking to kill Zelenskyy and topple his leadership. Zelenskyy has leveraged his familiarity with television and the media to keep his nations plight in the spotlight. Penn says he had no questions prepared" for their meeting: "I just hoped this film would be useful, thats it. North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un meets with Russian president Vladimir Putin. The North Korean leader has pledged "unconditional support" to Russia in its invasion of Ukraine. Penn and his small crew decide to leave Ukraine the next day, driving west through a variety of checkpoints. They eventually abandon their car and walk across the border into Poland. Was Sean Penn in danger during the making of 'Superpower'? Penn spent the first day of Russias invasion in Kyiv as the capital was rocked by missile attacks. He and his team are seen shuttling between locations in the deliberately darkened city, the better to deny Russian gunners a target. Once at their hotel, Penn cracks, Why is our hotel the one building lit up like a Christmas tree? On a return trip to Ukraine months after the invasion launched, Penn insists on going to Ukraine's beleaguered eastern front. Crouching in a bunker with a helmet and flak jacket, Penn is told that Russian soldiers are 150 yards away just across a river. While anything can happen in wartime, Penns celebrity status looms large. At one point during his wanderings around decimated eastern Ukrainian towns, strewn with rubble and dead bodies, a Ukrainian military official says, Can I be blunt? Youre Sean Penn, no one will be responsible for your dying on the front line. Sean Penn examines the detritus of a Russian missile strike on a residential building in eastern Ukraine in "Superpower." The documentary shows the actor exploring the war-torn country and sitting down with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. How does Sean Penns showdown with Sean Hannity figure into the documentary? One highlight of the film is watching Penns appearance on Sean Hannitys Fox News program from April 6, 2022. Hannity had previously labeled Penn an enemy of the state on his show. Penn goes on the show and tells Hannity he does not trust him, and focuses instead on the bravery of the Ukrainian people as they fight for freedom. The unlikely pair agree on the need for the U.S. to help Ukrainians defeat Russia. Of Zelenskyy, Penn tells Hannity, This is leadership. (Penn makes a return to Hannity's Fox News show Monday at 9 p.m. EST.) What does President Zelenskyy tell Sean Penn about American involvement in Ukraine? World War III has started, and Ukraine is the front line, Zelenskyy tells Penn during a meeting in a park, hinting at a possible broader conflict should Russia's actions go unchecked. We don't want Americans to fight here. But if we dont win, Americans will fight (here). Vice President Kamala Harris and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi of Calif., right, react as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy presents lawmakers with a Ukrainian flag autographed by front-line troops in Bakhmut, in Ukraine's contested Donetsk province, as he addresses a joint meeting of Congress on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2022. What quote opens and closes 'Superpower'? Penn shares that he carries around in his wallet a long quote by writer William Saroyan that he says serves as a guide for living his best life. Be the inferior of no man, or of any men be superior. Remember that every man is a variation of yourself, Saroyan wrote in The Time of Your Life," a 1939 play that won the Pulitzer Prize. In the time of your life, live so that in that wondrous time you shall not add to the misery and sorrow of the world, but shall smile to the infinite delight and mystery of it. Why did Sean Penn give Volodymyr Zelenskyy one of his Oscars? In an interview with Variety, in which he also blasts artificial intelligence and Will Smith's Chris Rock slap, Penn says he gave President Zelenskyy one of his two Oscars (Penn has won best actor awards for 2004s Mystic River and 2009s Milk). Initially, Penn says he considered melting both Oscars down so they could be turned into bullets for Ukrainian soldiers. The Oscar gift did come with one condition: I told him to keep it and bring it to Malibu after all this is over and his country is safe." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Sean Penn 'Superpower' documentary finds actor in thick of Ukraine war " Sister Wives " star Christine Brown was the first of Kody Brown's wives to leave him. The exes publicly announced their split in November 2021. Here's everything we know about Christine's life since leaving Kody. TLC's "Sister Wives" star Christine Brown announced she was leaving her "spiritual" husband Kody Brown after more than 25 years of marriage in November 2021. The exes have six biological kids together, ranging in age from 13 to 28. As seen on "Sister Wives," one of the reasons Christine decided to leave Kody was because she was unhappy living in Flagstaff, Arizona. Here's everything we know about Christine's life after leaving polygamy, from her relationship status to where she's living today. Is Christine Brown single? On past episodes of "Sister Wives," Christine has been open about the fact that one of the reasons she was unhappy in her plural marriage to Kody was because it lacked romance. Christine told People in August 2022 that she wanted to date a monogamous man eventually. "I want a guy who actually loves me and wants to be with me intimately," she said. Six months later, Christine announced that she was dating David Woolley, a father of eight and grandfather of 10. The couple announced their engagement in April 2023. In September, Christine revealed that she and David met on Stir.com, a dating site for single parents. The couple loves to go on adventures together, chronicled their travels on their respective Instagram accounts. They took a trip with some of Christine's kids to Europe in the summer of 2023. "David treats me like a queen and tells me I'm beautiful every day," Christine told People in April. Where does Christine Brown live? Christine Brown was was raised in polygamy. TLC Even before the cracks in Christine's relationship with Kody were showing on "Sister Wives," she was open about the fact that she wanted the family to move back to Utah if polygamy ever became legal there again. Polygamy became considered an infraction instead of a felony in Utah in May 2020, around the time that Christine revealed just how estranged her relationship with Kody was. After leaving Kody, Christine moved back to Utah to be closer to some of her extended family members and her adult kids who had moved back when they married. It's unclear exactly when Christine made the move, but in November 2022, she posted on Instagram that she was finally filming "Sister Wives" in her Salt Lake City home. In June 2023, she gave her Instagram followers a tour of the deck she was building, presumably in the Utah home she now shares with David and her youngest daughter, Truely Brown. What does Christine Brown do for a living? Christine on "Sister Wives." TLC Along with her presumed salary for starring on "Sister Wives," she sells gut health products for the network marketing company Plexus. Christine also records video messages for her fans on Cameo for $55. New episodes of "Sister Wives" air Sundays at 10 p.m. on TLC. Read the original article on Insider The Prince and Princess of Wales traveled to the U.S. together late last year, visiting Boston for the second Earthshot Prize awards ceremony Chris Jackson - WPA Pool/Getty Prince William and Kate Middleton in February 2023 Prince William is back in the United States without his wife, Kate Middleton. The Prince of Wales, 41, touched down in New York City for a two-day visit this week. In addition to events on Monday, the highlight of his stateside visit will be Tuesday's Earthshot Prize Innovation Summit, where this year's finalists will be unveiled. The event serves as a rev up to the 2023 Earthshot Prize awards ceremony, which will take place in Singapore on Nov. 7. William launched the Earthshot Prize in 2020 to promote impactful approaches to pressing environmental challenges, with plans to award the prizes until 2030. It will be a solo trip, with Princess Kate, 41, staying back in the U.K. There was likely a practical reason for the decision: their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. Although the family has the help of longtime nanny Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo, Prince William and Princess Kate regularly drive their kids to school and make sure at least one of them is home most evenings for their return. Samir Hussein/WireImage Kate Middleton and Prince William with Prince George, Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte at Trooping the Colour 2023 Related: Kate Middleton and Prince William Ignite the Earthshot Prize! Peek Behind the Scenes with Backstage Photos The Prince and Princess of Wales are working to ensure George, 10, Charlotte, 8, and Louis, 5, have normal upbringings while simultaneously preparing them for their future royal roles especially Prince George, who is second in the line of succession to the throne. "It's a massive balancing act," a palace insider previously told PEOPLE exclusively. "William and Kate are doing the right thing, protecting him so he can have as normal a childhood as possible, but he's also dipping into duties as a future monarch." Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more! Ben Birchall/PA Images via Getty Images Kate Middleton visits Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Yeovilton on Sept. 18, 2023 Kate also had her own outing in the U.K. on Monday. She visited the Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton, one of the Royal Navy's two principal air stations and one of the busiest military airfields in the U.K. The Princess of Wales was recently named Commodore-in-Chief of the Fleet Air Arm by King Charles. She took over the role from Prince Andrew, who held the role until 2022. It will also be a quick trip to the Big Apple for Prince William. He'll likely head back to the U.K. shortly after his outings in the U.S. wrap, as King Charles and Queen Camilla are also heading overseas that week. Buckingham Palace previously announced that the royal couple will head to France from Sept. 20 to Sept. 22 for a state visit. King Charles, 74, and Queen Camilla, 76, were originally scheduled to visit the country in March, but they postponed the trip due to riots happening across France at the time. Although Prince William is not required to be in the U.K. when his father is overseas, he is one of the King's Counsellors of State one of the royals who can carry out constitutional duties for King Charles if he is abroad or unwell. Princess Kate may not be joining Prince William in New York, but she's a strong supporter of his Earthshot Prize endeavor. She accompanied her husband to the previous awards shows, including the inaugural event held in London in 2021. Peter Byrne/PA Wire via ZUMA Press Prince William visits New York on Sept. 18, 2023 Related: Prince William Is 'Very Excited' to Take Earthshot Prize Awards to Asia, CEO Says (Exclusive) Late last year, the royal couple traveled to Boston for the second ceremony. In addition to supporting Prince William's project, Kate made a solo outing during the trip to Harvard University's Center on the Developing Child, relating to her work on early childhood development and providing children with the best possible start in life. Prince William and Princess Kate visited the U.S. in an official capacity on two previous occasions in 2011, just a few months after their royal wedding, Kate and Prince William traveled to California after a tour of Canada, and in 2014, they spent time in New York City. Their time in the city that never sleeps included meeting JAY-Z and Beyonce at a Brooklyn Nets game, visiting the National September 11 Memorial and a gala dinner at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Samir Hussein/WireImage Kate Middleton and Prince William in Boston for the 2022 Earthshot Prize awards For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. A video shows a woman who claims to be "Instagram famous" getting kicked off an American Airlines flight for seemingly arguing with other passengers, per TMZ. A 20-second clip of the incident shows the woman in a bodysuit engaging in an argument with the airplane staff as she grabs her luggage. "Call me a b-tch again," she say in the clip, as seen below. "I did nothing wrong." Another passenger off-camera tells her to "shut up," prompting her to tell them to "You shut the f-ck up and your b-tch." As she leaves the plane, she turns to notice someone filming her public outburst. "Film me, I'm Instagram famous, you f-cking bum." It's unclear when the flight took place, and if her outburst caused any delays, but American Airlines' logo can be seen throughout the clip. Twitter: @MikeSington The NY Post confirmed the woman in the clip is Morgan Osman. She is somewhat famous on Instagram as she has nearly a million followers. Those numbers are likey to go up after this incident. Osman also appeared on Season 5 of the reality show the Bad Girls Club: Miami and has claimed she dated Britney Spears estranged husband Sam Ashgari following their divorce. Air travel continues to be a source of major online fodder. Air Canada, for example, had to issue apologies to travelers on a recent flight from Las Vegas to Montreal after seats were reportedly covered in vomit. Delta Airlines, meanwhile, caught flak after they offered a woman just $1,800 after losing her dog at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Another Delta flight from Atlanta to Barcelona was forced to turn around after a passenger suffered extremely violent diarrhea in the airplane's aisles. Perhaps the biggest airplane freakout of the year occurred in July, when a woman was seen disrupting a flight by yelling at passengers about a person she claimed was "not real." The woman was later identified as Tiffany Gomas, who has since addressed the incident. She said that she's back to traveling again, although she can't "comment right now" before suggesting that a long-form interview might be on the way. More on this Five Americans imprisoned in Iran and two of their family members are en route to the United States after they were released in a prisoner exchange the Biden administration negotiated with Tehran. A plane carrying all seven Americans left Iran Monday morning and stopped briefly in Qatar before departing for the U.S. The prisoner exchange, while not formally linked to stalled nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran, comes against a backdrop of tensions that routinely push the two countries toward a potential military confrontation. It also comes ahead of a United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York this week, where President Joe Biden and Iranian hardline President Ebrahim Raisi will both speak. In addition, the prisoner exchange could inject some new tensions in the U.S. presidential race. Republican presidential candidates in recent weeks have blasted the Biden administration's decision to push ahead with the prisoner exchange, arguing it amounts to paying a ransom to a state sponsor of terrorism. The exchange sets free five Americans who had been accused of being spies or working on behalf of the U.S. government in Iran. The United Nations described their detentions as "arbitrary." The White House has also said the allegations are false. A senior Biden administration official confirmed that two family members were also on the plane carrying the prisoners back to the United States. As part of the deal, $6 billion in frozen Iranian oil revenues was released by the Biden administration and five Iranians charged or convicted of non-violent crimes were freed by the United States, according to U.S. officials. The White House said Biden held "an emotional call" with the families of the seven Americans who are returning home. Each family member who joined the call spoke with the president. Dig deeper: Americans freed from Iran prison feared they had been left to 'rot Here are their stories. Americans, Iranians: Who's being swapped for whom? Three of the American prisoners, all dual U.S.-Iran citizens, are Siamak Namazi, Emad Sharghi and Morad Tahbaz. The identities of the two other Americans have not been released. A senior Biden administration official said those two Americans wish to keep their identities private. U.S. works to free Americans in Iran: Here's what Tehran might get Also on the plane are Namazi's mother and Tahbaz's wife, both of whom were previously unable to leave Iran. Businessman Namazi, 51, was arrested in 2015 while visiting his family in Tehran. Sharghi, 59, was detained in 2018 a year after moving to Iran from the U.S. to work for a tech investment company. Environmentalist Tahbaz, 67, who also holds British citizenship, was arrested in 2018 while working on a conservation project in Iran. An American is detained abroad: What happens next? Call the president? Two of the five Iranians who were freed had been convicted of non-violent crimes while three others were awaiting trial and had not been convicted, two senior Biden administration officials said. The five Americans were moved from prison to house arrest in an Iranian hotel in an interim step towards their release last month. The deal emerged after months of indirect negotiations between U.S. and Iranian officials. As part of the deal, the U.S. also released $6 billion in frozen Iranian oil revenues, transferred from banks in South Korea to Qatar, an energy-rich nation on the Arabian Peninsula that is an ally of both nations. The U.S. and Iran have no formal diplomatic relations. The funds are intended to be used for humanitarian purposes only. In a statement issued Monday, Biden Biden celebrated the release of the Americans and thanked the governments of Qatar, Oman, Switzerland and South Korea for their role in facilitating the agreement. Here's who and what is in the deal, why it's happening now, and why the American public should take an interest. US citizens Siamak Namazi (C-back), Emad Sharqi (bottom-L) and Morad Tahbaz (bottom-R) disembark from a Qatari jet upon their arrival at the Doha International Airport in Doha on Sept. 18, 2023. Five US detainees, three previously identified as Siamak Namazi, Morad Tahbaz and Emad Sharqi and two who wish to remain anonymous, released by Iran landed in Doha in a prisoner swap on September 18 after $6 billion in frozen funds were transferred to Iranian accounts in Qatar. 'We just know we want our brother home': Inside the secretive world of freeing American hostages abroad The five Iranians released by the U.S. are Mehrdad Moein Ansari, Kambiz Attar Kashani, Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani, Amin Hasanzadeh and Kaveh Afrasiabi, according to Al-Monitor. Three of the Iranians did not want to go back to Iran. Iran state media said one wanted to go to a third country and two will stay in the U.S. The Biden administration official also said the U.S. government will be issuing new sanctions against Iran's ministry of intelligence and its former president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, under the Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act, which expands government tools to combat wrongful detentions. The measure was signed into law in late 2020. Levinson, a former FBI agent, disappeared during a visit to an Iranian island in 2007. What have the U.S. and Iran agreed to? The U.S. has been freezing Iran's assets and piling on economic sanctions ever since President Donald Trump pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers in 2018. That deal was aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear activities amid international allegations, which Iran denies, that it's seeking nuclear weapons. Under the prisoner swap agreement announced early Monday, the U.S. has given the green light to South Korea to effectively pay Iran, through Qatar's banking system, for oil it purchased before the Trump administration imposed sanctions on these types of transactions in 2019. The White House says these funds will be held in restricted accounts in Qatar that will only allow Iran to purchase humanitarian goods such as food, medicine, medical devices and agricultural products, the administration officials said. If Iran tries to divert the funds or use them for anything other than a limited humanitarian purposes authorized, the Biden administration "will take action to lock up the funds," the official said. None of the money comes from U.S. taxpayers, according to another senior U.S. official who was not authorized to speak publicly, and it is thus not a ransom. Oversight of how the money is used will be provided by the U.S. Treasury, Qatar and aid organizations. In an interview with USA TODAY ahead of the prisoner swap, U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the U.S. has been categoric that it will control how the funds are used. They will be for humanitarian purposes. I have no doubt, Thomas-Greenfield said. However, Iran's foreign ministry and state media have also appeared to claim that the unfrozen funds in Qatar would be under Tehran's direct and unrestricted control. "Humanitarian means whatever the Iranian people need. So, this money will be budgeted for those needs, and the needs of the Iranian people will be decided and determined by the Iranian government," Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi said in a recent interview with NBC News. Republicans say the Biden administration is being naive. Appearing on Fox Business on Sunday, House Foreign Affairs Chairman Michael McCaul, R-Texas, pointed to Raisis comment and charged that the money would fund terror proxy operations and an offensive system for a nuclear war." US citizens Siamak Namazi (2nd-L) and Morad Tahbaz (R) are welcomed by people upon disembarking from a Qatari jet upon their arrival at the Doha International Airport in Doha on Sept. 18, 2023. Five US detainees, three previously identified as Siamak Namazi, Morad Tahbaz and Emad Sharqi and two who wish to remain anonymous, released by Iran landed in Doha in a prisoner swap on September 18 after $6 billion in frozen funds were transferred to Iranian accounts in Qatar. Why is this prisoner swap happening now? As of late August, at least 59 U.S. nationals were known to be held hostage or wrongfully detained in at least 15 countries, according to the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation's annual Bringing Americans Home report. The foundation was started after the kidnapping and murder of an American freelance journalist. Over the last decade, several Americans detained in Iran have been released and those negotiations have followed a similar pattern in terms of conditions. 'Undersecretary for thugs': Bill Richardson's endless push to free Americans detained abroad The U.S. and Iran have not had formal diplomatic relations since 1980, a consequence of the nation's Islamic Revolution and a hostage crisis at the U.S. Embassy in Tehran. In the decades since tensions have simmered on and off. Roxanne Tahbaz holds a photograph of her father, Morad Tahbaz, outside the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office on April 13, 2022 in London, England. Roxanne Tahbaz, the daughter of Morad Tahbaz, jailed in Iran, says the treatment of her Father and family has been a "betrayal" by the UK government. Tahbaz, 66, a US national in addition to his UK nationality and Iranian family background, is a wildlife conservationist jailed along with seven other conservationists in 2019. He was given a ten-year jail sentence after an unfair trial. He suffers from serious health conditions, including a history of cancer, and the Iranian authorities have prevented him from receiving the medical care he needs. In addition to this his wife, Vida, is also stuck in Iran after the authorities issued her with a travel ban. That's not about to change. But Henry Rome, an Iran expert and senior fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, said that the Biden administration has been viewing a prisoner swap with Tehran as a "prerequisite to moving forward with Iran," including, eventually "resuming some type of nuclear negotiation." U.S.-Iran pact: Trump destroyed it. Biden wants to restore it. Just don't call it a deal He said the prisoner exchange represented a "step in the direction of de-escalation" and that if re-elected President Biden could seek to revive the nuclear deal with Iran and world powers in 2025. Rome added that while American foreign policy attention may be absorbed with Russia and China right now, as the former wages its war in Ukraine and latter increasingly competes with the U.S. on a range of fronts, he believed that if Americans were to "wake up to a war tomorrow it would most likely be with Iran." He said this was because of the threat to U.S. forces in the Middle East by Iran-backed militias and because of the "constant friction" that results from U.S. attempts to ensure unimpeded travel through the Strait of Hormuz for oil tankers. Iran's navy has hijacked tankers and harassed U.S. naval ships in this area. Iran claims revenge for Qasem Soleimani: U.S. Navy is still a target An unhappy anniversary 'Woman, life, liberty' Iranians on why they'll risk beatings and death for change Still, the timing of the prisoner swap may not be entirely coincidental. Ebrahim Raisi, Irans hardline president, will be in New York this week to attend the United Nations General Assembly, an annual event where 193 UN member states debate war, peace and everything in between. September 16 also marked the one-year anniversary of the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman who was arrested in Tehran by Iran's so-called morality police, allegedly for violating hijab rules. A year since Mahsa Amini's death: Britain, U.S. impose new sanctions on Iran Iranians protests the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini after she was detained by the morality police in Tehran. After Amini died in police custody, some of the largest protests in Iran in years erupted. They lasted for months. They were eventually suppressed by Iran's security services in a violent crackdown. "Iranian authorities are pushing ahead with a range of tactics aimed at breaking the resistance of women. They are bringing economic pain and suffering at a very individual level," said Tara Sepehri Far, a researcher at London-based think tank Chatham House, in a recent online discussion on X, formerly Twitter. But the anger Amini's death unleashed could be waiting for a new moment to resurface. "The prisoner release deal will be a huge relief to the long suffering families of the detained," Lauren Rozen, a veteran diplomatic correspondent and Iran expert wrote in her substack newsletter published on Sept. 12 "And it may do a bit to distract from gloomier headlines during Raisis New York visit, where he is certain to face protests, at least back home." Inside Iran: Americas contentious history in Iran leads to mix of anger, wonderment and weariness The first Biden administration official, however, said there are no meetings planned or envisioned over the coming week with Iranian officials. But the administration does plan, he said, to talk to allies including Britain, France, Germany and others during the diplomatic gathering in New York. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Iran prisoner swap: 5 Americans released in deal negotiated by Biden Lando Norris says his focus in the final laps of the Singapore Grand Prix was on protecting his runner-up spot behind Carlos Sainz as attacking the Ferrari charger would have made him vulnerable to his Mercedes pursuers. As the race entered its final stage, Norris ran consistently about 1.5s behind Sainz. But once the Mercedes pair of George Russell and Lewis Hamilton running on fresher and faster medium tyres began to reel in the McLaren driver, smart tactics came into play. Sainz opted to fall back slightly to tighten the gap with Norris to under a second to allow the Briton to benefit from DRS, which in turn would help him keep the Mercedes at bay The ploy worked like a charm as Norris took the bait and remained just out of reach of Russell. However, it also put Sainz dangerously at risk of falling into the clutches of the McLaren. But Norris later explained why attacking the Spaniard wasn't his main focus. "It was protecting P2," he said. "George struggled to overtake me when he had a five or six-tenths advantage. "So the chances of me getting Carlos with maybe one-tenth advantage, there [was] no chance, so I think Carlos played it smart. There was no need for me to try and attack him. "The more I attacked him, the more vulnerable I would have been from both the guys behind, and I wouldnt be sitting here if I played it differently, so a stressful last few laps. "The last lap, I hit the wall where George also hit the wall, but I hit it with the front, so I panicked a bit, it damaged the steering in terms of it being just off-centre. "But luckily, it wasnt anything more than that." McLaren team boss Andrea Stella admitted after the race that Mercedes' decision to pit under the VSC caused by Esteban Ocon's stranded Alpine twenty laps from the end had sowed doubts in his mind about Norris' ability to protect his podium finish. "When I saw them going onto sets of brand new mediums, I thought they're going to pass us," explained Stella. "The new medium was the correct tyre for that situation, considering the stint length. "We considered actually pitting, but we would be on a used soft [as Norris had no other tyres available] and we were nervous of 16-17 laps flat out on a used soft. "So we decided to stay out. We would have pitted in case of a safety car, but not in case of the virtual safety car." Stella reckoned that Russell's struggle to overhaul Norris had perhaps been caused by excessive brake or tyre temperatures due to running in the train of cars. But the Italian admitted that Norris would have likely lost out to his Mercedes rivals without Sainz's masterful 'Carlando' tactics. "I think soon they lost a little bit of this momentum, and getting traction with the softer tyres," he added. "Then the last three laps, I said: 'Maybe we can do it.' "But I don't think we would have done it without the collaboration with Carlos. Let's call it like this, because Carlos, in his own interest, he wanted to have Lando within the DRS. "So the time when Lando lost it in trying to defend, I think Carlos actively kind of waited for Lando to get within DRS. So it was a bit of teamwork between two previous team-mates for a great result for both teams." Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter A man went missing near Dover, New Hampshire, after his pickup truck was stuck in a mudslide. A man from Sanford, Maine, was found after his pickup got stuck in a mud pit, trapping him inside for two days. Robert Brown, 65, was reported missing by his wife on Friday after he drove her to work 15 miles away in Rochester, New Hampshire, the day before. Authorities said they attempted to reach Brown's cellphone in Dover, but it had run out of battery. Two hunters saw Brown's truck and called local authorities, who traced the tracks to the bottom of a muddy hill, Dover Fire Department Lt. Patrick Simmons told WMUR News 9. Brown was trapped inside, still wearing his seatbelt. "This is generally not accessed by people from the public," Simmons said. "This is more like an area ... to dump dredging and sand and dirt and things used by the city workers and things like that. But I don't know how he got out here." Brown was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Contributing: The Associated Press Devastation in Libya: Survivor recounts terrifying sight after Derna floods Cybele Mayes-Osterman is a breaking news reporter for USA Today. Reach her on email at cmayesosterman@usatoday.com. Follow her on X @CybeleMO. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Maine man found alive, trapped in truck in mud pit for two days Most types of protein are year-round you can enjoy them on any day, in any season, and for any occasion. If there's one type of protein, however, that tends to get a seasonal stamp, it would definitely be turkey. Sure, you might enjoy a turkey sandwich every now and then, but otherwise, most people are reaching for chicken when they seek out their poultry, and very few are whipping up a roast turkey on a Tuesday night. Come fall, and especially come Thanksgiving, turkey suddenly becomes the star of the show, making the protein a much more seasonal specialty than other types like chicken, beef, or lamb. If you're the type of person who flocks to get the biggest bird and carefully researches to how cook it perfectly for Thanksgiving, then perhaps you'll want to get a little practice with other turkey recipes. Because, against popular belief, you can (and should) enjoy turkey all throughout fall, and even all throughout the year. Also, there's more to turkey than roasting an entire bird you can use ground turkey to make burgers, meatloaf, or chili; leftover, sliced turkey to make a tetrazzini, soup, or a pot pie; or you could even cook up whole turkey wings. Turkey tends to be underestimated when it comes to versatility, but these best turkey recipes prove that the popular holiday bird has quite a bit to offer. Read more: 75 Healthy Dinner Recipes Turkey Cottage Pie turkey cottage pie in dish - Jennine Rye/Tasting Table While shepherd's pie may be the name most of us are familiar with, a cottage pie is very similar technically, a shepherd's pie is always made with lamb, whereas a cottage pie features beef. Well, this recipe defies the rules a little bit by featuring turkey as the star protein, though the rest of the components are pretty true to a classic shepherd's or cottage pie, especially thanks to the mashed potato topping. There's a lot of savory goodness to get excited about with this turkey cottage pie, and vegetables like onion, carrot, celery, and mushrooms help add some bulk to the dish along with the ground turkey. This is exactly the type of dish that will warm you up on a chilly fall night, and best of all, you're almost guaranteed to have leftovers that means you can enjoy this comfort classic all week long. Recipe: Turkey Cottage Pie Hearty Turkey Chili bowl of turkey chili - Catherine Brookes/Tasting Table Beef is often the go-to protein when it comes to chili, but just about any ground meat will do the trick in the case of this recipe, ground turkey steps up to the plate. Of course, there's a lot more to chili than just the meat, so you can also expect to find a plethora of hearty goodies including kidney beans, red bell pepper, and onion all simmered in a savory tomato sauce. When it comes time to enjoy your bowl of turkey chili, you could keep things simple and pair it with rice or even tortilla chips. Of course, you could also go all out and garnish your bowl with the works: cilantro, sour cream, and maybe even some avocado slices for good measure. Recipe: Hearty Turkey Chili Turkey Enchilada Skillet turkey enchilada skillet - Jessica Case/Tasting Table Enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish that usually consists of a savory filling rolled up in corn tortillas; this recipe features such ingredients but in a unique, deconstructed way. Instead of making the enchilada filling, rolling it up into tortillas, then slathering on a sauce and baking, you'll build the whole dish in a skillet a huge perk for those who can't be bothered to turn on their oven come dinnertime. As for what goes into the skillet, you can expect some typical enchilada ingredients, including beans, onion, bell pepper, corn, and of course, ground turkey. And don't worry, tortillas still make an appearance in this recipe, but instead of rolling them up, you'll cut them up into strips and toss them right into the skillet. Recipe: Turkey Enchilada Skillet Turkey Tomato Bolognese turkey bolognese sauce in skillet - Jennine Rye/Tasting Table Whether you're looking to experiment in the kitchen or you absolutely refuse to use jarred pasta sauce, it's always a good idea to have a go-to bolognese sauce in your recipe repertoire. This recipe walks you through the steps to make a perfectly rich, tomatoey, and turkey-based Bolognese, and we can absolutely guarantee that it tastes better than any pasta sauce you might buy in a jar. The key to accomplishing the rich depth of flavor is letting the sauce simmer for an hour; a test of patience, no doubt, but a step that is ultimately easy and will result in a delectable sauce. As for what kind of pasta you pair your turkey Bolognese with, that part is up to you spaghetti, tagliatelle, or lasagna are all good options. Recipe: Rich Turkey Tomato Bolognese White Turkey Chili turkey chili with avocado - Jessica Case/Tasting Table If you like the idea of chili but aren't too keen on tomatoes, then this white turkey chili recipe is the perfect middle ground. You'll find lots of traditional chili ingredients in this dish, from ground turkey to beans to corn, but you won't find any tomatoes, thus making this a "white" chili as it doesn't have that classic red hue. This recipe is also ideal for those who are fans of spice, as you'll find canned green chiles and jalapeno in the mix. Even if you aren't so big on spicy food, it's easy to customize this dish to your exact liking you could even fully omit the chiles and still have a warm, hearty dish that tastes just as good. Recipe: White Turkey Chili Turkey Kofta Kebabs And Whipped Feta turkey kebabs with feta dressing - Michelle McGlinn/Tasting Table This recipe for turkey kofta kebabs and whipped feta is essentially a two-for-one special; not only will you end up with delightfully juicy, freshly-grilled turkey kebabs, but you'll top off your skewered with a creamy feta dressing to really hone in on those Greek flavors. Paired with some simple sides like salad and pita bread, you've got a full meal with surprisingly minimal effort. Based on the shape of the turkey kebabs, you may be surprised to learn that you'll use ground turkey to make them. Breadcrumbs and eggs help bind everything together, and you'll also include spices like cumin, sumac, garlic, and chili powder to ensure plenty of flavor with each bite. Though this recipe does call for grilling the kebabs, you could easily make them on the stovetop and yield a similarly juicy result. Recipe: Turkey Kofta Kebabs with Whipped Feta Actually Juicy Turkey Burger turkey burgers with feta - Michelle McGlinn/Tasting Table There's no denying that beef dominates the burger game, and for pretty good reason it makes for a classic burger and a delectably juicy one at that. Meanwhile, other proteins like chicken or turkey can make for a tasty burger, but the leaner meats run the risk of drying out more easily. If you're looking for the perfect turkey burger that is actually juicy, then this is just the recipe for you; these patties contain goat milk, which is a secret weapon in maintaining moisture, even as the meat cooks. You'll also cook the patties in the oven, which will make things easier for you as you prepare the buns and get your toppings ready to go. Recipe: Actually Juicy Turkey Burgers Spatchcocked Sichuan-Spiced Dry-Brined Turkey Cooked turkey on platter - Lizzie Munro/Tasting Table In case you're unfamiliar with spatchcocking, it's a poultry cooking method in which you remove the backbone of the bird. The process typically involves pressing the bird down on the breastbone to flatten it. While the method is most common with chicken, you can spatchcock a turkey, too, and the result is a bird that cooks much more evenly than its non-spatchcocked counterparts. This recipe not only walks you through the steps to spatchcock your turkey, but it also incorporates some seriously impressive flavors. You'll start by dry-brining the bird in a Sichuan, coriander, and fennel-spiced rub, then you'll bake the spatchcocked turkey to juicy perfection. Between the cooking method and the brine, this is one impressive turkey that will certainly liven up the table come Thanksgiving. Recipe: Spatchcocked Sichuan-Spiced Dry-Brined Turkey Baked Turkey Meatballs spaghetti and meatballs in bowl - Jennine Rye/Tasting Table No plate of spaghetti is complete without meatballs, and if you're looking to give beef meatballs a rest, then perhaps it's time to allow turkey to shine. These baked turkey meatballs are the perfect accompaniment to any pasta, not just spaghetti, as they provide a rich, juicy, savory flavor that simply can't be beaten. A big perk to this recipe is that it's a very straightforward one; you'll mix up the meatball "batter," roll it up into balls, then bake no fuss, no worries about the meatballs baking through. As the meatballs bake, you can focus on making the tomato sauce, and once both components are ready, simply pile them onto your favorite pasta for an ultra-comforting meal. Recipe: Baked Turkey Meatballs Turkey Bolognese Bianco turkey bolognese pasta in bowl - Taylor Murray/Tasting Table This recipe for turkey Bolognese bianco really does have it all; between the rigatoni, broccoli rabe, turkey, and garlic white wine sauce, this seemingly simple and bare-bones recipe packs quite a few delectable ingredients. Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in a jiffy we're talking less than 30 minutes, and it yields four servings. Pair your hearty pasta with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to round out the meal. Recipe: Turkey Bolognese Bianco Smoky Turkey Chili turkey chili in bowl - Michelle McGlinn/Tasting Table Not everyone likes a spicy chili, but a smoky one? It's pretty hard to deny how delicious a smoky chili is, and when you include ingredients like ground turkey, black beans, and fire-roasted tomatoes, it's almost guaranteed to be a winning dish for the whole family. So, you might be wondering what exactly makes this a smoky chili? Well, we can thank a few key spices for providing smoky flavor notes, including chili powder, smoked paprika, and even a bit of cinnamon for some added warmth. Top off your bowl with some cheese and fresh cilantro for the optimal dining experience. Recipe: Smoky Turkey Chili Ultimate Turkey Meatloaf meatloaf slices on plate - Jessica Morone/Tasting Table Beef may be a meatloaf go-to, but this ultimate turkey meatloaf recipe sure gives ground beef a run for its money. Between the hearty mixture of ground turkey, mushrooms, onion, and even potato chips, this turkey loaf is packed with moisture, so you can bet on it being perfectly juicy with each and every bite. Like any meatloaf recipe, there's a certain ease of preparation that makes this such a winning dish. You'll combine the meatloaf "batter" in a bowl, press it into a loaf pan, then let the oven do its thing for about an hour. While there will be plenty of savory flavor in the meatloaf itself, you can count on the ketchup glaze to give the dish that class meatloaf look and to provide a much-needed tangy contrast. Recipe: Ultimate Turkey Meatloaf Turkey Sandwich With Pepper Jack And Barbecue Chips open sandwich with chips - Tasting Table If you haven't yet discovered the delicacy of putting crushed potato chips onto a sandwich, then perhaps this turkey sandwich recipe can be your introduction. Sure, many of us have paired chips with a sandwich before, but by adding them directly in between the slices of bread, you add a burst of flavor (barbecue, in this case) as well as a crispiness that vegetables just can't compete with. Of course, you will find plenty of vegetables on this sandwich, including lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles, along with a spicy mayo that also packs a tangy punch. Topped off with the final sprinkle of barbecue chips, this isn't your mom's turkey sandwich, though she likely would enjoy it should you share the recipe. Recipe: Turkey Sandwich with Pepper Jack and Barbecue Chips Baked Turkey Wings turkey wings on plate - Christina Musgrave/Tasting Table Sometimes chicken wings just aren't enough, and the only wing that might satiate your hunger would be a turkey's. Luckily, it's just as easy to cook turkey wings as it is chicken, especially when you let the oven do all of the work. Fair warning, however, that it will take a while to bake these turkey wings after all, they are pretty hefty. Once your wings are done baking in the oven, you can enjoy them in both fancy and casual settings. Looking to switch things up from a whole bird on Thanksgiving? These wings will make for the perfect dinner centerpiece. Or, simply enjoy these wings anytime you might enjoy chicken wings, alongside sides like ranch and celery. Recipe: Baked Turkey Wings Autumnal Herby Turkey Breast sliced turkey breast on plate - Michelle McGlinn/Tasting Table While you could make this autumnal herby turkey breast for just about any occasion, it offers an air of elegance well suited to a Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner table. This recipe is especially ideal for those who want to celebrate a holiday but don't have a huge crowd to feed instead of cooking a whole bird, you can just cook the breast but still yield equally impressive results. Even if you choose to make this turkey breast on any old weeknight, there's no doubt that it will leave your family full and satisfied. Pair this turkey with comforting sides like mashed potatoes or green bean casserole to round out the meal. Recipe: Autumnal Herby Turkey Breast Breakfast Turkey Sausage turkey sausage patties on plate - Michelle McGlinn/Tasting Table Pork sausage may be a beloved breakfast classic, but there's no denying that turkey sausage gives it a run for its money. While many of us opt to buy turkey sausage patties from the store, it's actually quite easy to make them yourself, and this way, you have total control over what ingredients go in. These turkey sausage patties are nice and simple, though they still pack the perfect flavor punch thanks to garlic and fresh sage. Because these sausage patties are best suited as a breakfast side dish, you'll enjoy them most paired alongside eggs, pancakes, and other morning-time favorites. Recipe: Easy Breakfast Turkey Sausage Leftovers Turkey Pot Pie slice of turkey pot pie - Michelle McGlinn/Tasting Table We've all been there, left with lots of leftovers after a big dinner and unsure about what to do with them. If you happen to have a plethora of turkey and vegetables left after a big meal (perhaps after Thanksgiving), then there's no better way to put them to good use than by way of a pot pie. To make this a nice and easy recipe, you'll put a couple of premade pie crusts to good use, serving as the foundation of your pot pie. And, of course, this is a leftovers pie, so you'll need already-cooked turkey, along with some quintessential vegetables like onion, celery, and carrot. Recipe: Leftovers Turkey Pot Pie One-Pot Turkey Tetrazzini turkey tetrazzini in pot - Joe Dillard/Tasting Table There are fewer recipes more convenient than a one-pot one, and this recipe for turkey tetrazzini checks all of those convenience boxes. Not only does it come together on the stovetop in just a single pan, but you'll use already-cooked turkey to speed up the process. Of course, there's more to this recipe than just the turkey in fact, it's a pretty well-balanced one thanks to the addition of spaghetti, mushrooms, and peas. For those days when you need a no-fuss meal and maybe have some leftover turkey to use up, tetrazzini is the answer. Recipe: One-Pot Turkey Tetrazzini Turkey Vegetable Soup turkey vegetable soup in bowl - Hayley MacLean/Tasting Table Move over chicken noodle soup turkey is the new meat of choice when it comes to soup, and better yet when you throw lots of vegetables into the mix. That's just what this turkey vegetable soup does, with peas, celery, carrots, and spinach all bulking up this otherwise brothy soup. It's always good to have a homemade soup recipe on standby when colder months roll around; if someone in your family comes down with the flu, there's nothing better than homemade soup to lift their spirits. And, luckily, it's not much harder to make soup from scratch than to buy and heat up a can though we can guarantee that it tastes much better. Recipe: Turkey Vegetable Soup Turkey Roulade With Dried Cherries And Sausage Stuffing stuffed turkey slices - Tasting Table Why have turkey and stuffing as two separate dishes when you could just combine the two? Get the best of both worlds with this turkey roulade recipe, which comes stuffed with a, well, stuffing, and a pretty darn tasty one at that. This isn't your grandma's stuffing this one features dried cherries, mushrooms, Italian sausage, and pine nuts, making for an ultra-refined take on the holiday classic. If you're looking to make a slightly more interesting dish this holiday season, then you can't go wrong with this roulade. It's elegant and delicious, and you'll even make a gravy to slather on top and add to the savoriness. Recipe: Turkey Roulade with Dried Cherries and Sausage Stuffing Read the original article on Tasting Table. Anyone who's ever seen "Goodfellas" will surely remember the scene where the crew makes dinner in prison look like a gastronomic dream come true, slicing garlic with a razor and spending hours on a tomato sauce. In "The Godfather," the restaurant scene where Michael Corleone whacks Solozzo and Captain McCluskey was filmed at Louie's in the Bronx. The mob's connections to its favorite restaurants have been just as strong in real life as on-screen, particularly in New York City. In 1972, Joe Gallo was killed while dining at Umberto's Clam House at the corner of Hester and Mulberry in what's now Little Italy. In 1985, Constantino Paul "Big Paulie" Castellano (boss of the Gambinos, one of the five families of NYC) was shot during a dinner at Sparks Steakhouse in midtown Manhattan. To their faithful patrons, these restaurants were a regular mainstay, but also took on another dimension of significance for their A-list clients; the joint must be trustworthy and low-key. Enter Bamonte's: the oldest Italian restaurant in Brooklyn and the former famous haunt of mob giants. The Williamsburg joint opened in 1900 and hasn't moved locations since. Today, dinner at Bamonte's is as much a taste of Italian-American culinary prowess as a taste of NYC history. Even as trendy new brunch spots, record shops, and high-dollar vintage stores crop up in Williamsburg around it, Bamonte's remains an unshakeable New York institution. Read more: Michelin-Starred Restaurants You Should Visit At Least Once History Of Bamonte's And Mob Ties Salvatore Bonanno in New York - Bettmann/Getty Images When Pasquale Bamonte moved from Salerno, Italy and opened his eponymous restaurant in 1900, it first found a fanbase with Italian immigrants, who had started arriving in New York during the 1840s and then came by droves in the 1880s. Between then and 1920, tens of thousands of people had relocated from Italy to New York City. It's uncertain exactly when or how Bamonte's became a well-known mob hangout, but it remained that way for decades, and its ties weren't a secret. In the 1950s, Bamonte's installed a glass wall between the kitchen and the dining room so diners could monitor whether their food was about to be poisoned. The interior of the restaurant was even outfitted with phone booths where folks could take private calls. Perhaps the most historic event to ever occur at the joint happened in 1979 when Carmine Galante was killed by the mob, after which the five families held a celebration at Bamonte's. Nowadays, some foodies might argue that Williamsburg is home to better Italian restaurants and they might have a point. But, while there's another plate of clams casino down the street, you won't be able to eat it at the same table at which infamous mobsters like Salvatore Bonnano or Tommy Gagliano might have once sat. Experiential Dining And A Taste Of Nostalgia Bamonte's restaurant exterior - Instagram Bamonte's is located in a two-story house with brick and red clapboard siding, mere feet from the Brooklyn Queens Expressway, a facade emblematic of Bamonte's unique past-meets-present brand. Bamonte's might owe its time-tested success in part to its no-frills menu. Highlights include the rigatoni with vodka sauce, zuppa di clams, pork chops with hot and sweet vinegar peppers, stuffed artichokes, mussels marinara, prosciutto with melon, handmade cheese ravioli, eggplant rollatini, and baked ziti. Dishes are served family-style (think big plates and large tables full of lots of people) with generous portion sizes, and the tuxedo-clad servers don't skimp on the wine pour, either. Bamonte's also boasts an affordable "$$" price ranking on Yelp and stocks a full bar. Instead of mafia members, today's dinner crowd is a mixture of folks who've been coming there for ages and the artist-yuppie crowd for which Williamsburg is quickly becoming famous (or perhaps infamous). Other prominent Italian-American guests have included Frank Sinatra and Robert DeNiro. The restaurant has even served as a film set for "The Sopranos" no surprise considering the dining room has looked the same since the 1950s (they got it right the first time). Decor includes framed pictures of the pope, heavy red curtains, crystal chandeliers, and no music; the phone booths and glass-paned kitchen remain. Curious foodies can swing by 32 Withers Street and check it out during open hours, noon till 11 p.m. Read the original article on Tasting Table. Three chopped Italian subs - Lauripatterson/Getty Images It is commonly believed that the sandwich was invented in the 18th century by John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich. Because he did not want to leave the table while gambling, he requested that someone bring him beef between two slices of toast. Or did he? The oldest use of the word sandwich is found in a 1762 diary entry. Three years later, the story of the gambling earl was written down by Pierre-Jean Grosley. Whether or not the Earl of Sandwich actually had any influence on the food item's naming or popularity isn't known, but popular it became. What child in the United States didn't grow up with peanut butter and jelly or grilled cheese sandwiches? BLTs and po' boys rose to prominence in the early 20th century in the U.S., but sandwiches really took off after Otto Rohwedder introduced the bread slicer in 1928. People have allowed their sandwich imaginations to run wild ever since. With the introduction of the Internet and social media, when one person has a great idea for a new sandwich, they can easily share it with the world, like with the TikTok chopped sandwich trend. A chopped sandwich is exactly what it sounds like: ingredients are all chopped together, then sandwiched between two slices of bread or onto a roll. While the possibilities are practically endless, we've gathered some of the most innovative new combos and tastiest classics to be found on the platform. Read more: 13 TikTok Food Trends You Should Be Trying Chopped Italian Sub Cross-section chopped Italian sub - Instagram A classic Italian sub has salami, pepperoni, ham, cheese, tomato, onion, and lettuce layered on a sliced baguette and drizzled with a simple dressing of olive oil and red wine vinegar. No one can say exactly where this style of submarine sandwich, hero, hoagie, or whatever it is called in your neighborhood, originated. But the first person to chop all of the ingredients together before scooping them onto the bread (and filming the result) is believed to be TikTok user @big_erics_bbq. To make your own chopped Italian sub, all you need is a solid cutting board (you don't want to ruin your kitchen counters, after all) and a large, sharp knife for chopping. It's easy to make a mess when chopping all of these ingredients together, so a large chopping surface that will help contain everything is ideal. The chopped Italian sub is perfect for sack lunches, picnics, road trips, or any time you are on the go and need a quick, hearty, and tasty bite to eat. Chopped Cubano Closeup of chopped Cubano ingredients - Instagram The Cubano, also known as a Cuban sandwich, is popular in the U.S. but especially so in Florida. This is particularly true in the Miami and Tampa regions, where large populations of Cuban immigrants have settled and created their own unique culinary traditions. The basic construction of a Cuban sandwich consists of layers of ham, Swiss cheese, and slices of dill pickle, as well as a generous helping of mustard. Sometimes salami is included, as well as additional condiments. The assembled sandwich is flattened and typically cooked using a flattops, grill, or sandwich press. The most key ingredient of a Cubano, the one that sets this sandwich apart from all the other ham and cheese combos, is the use of Cuban bread. Long and crispy on the outside like a baguette, but soft on the inside, Cuban bread is a specialty of South Florida Cuban communities. It can be difficult to find elsewhere, so French-style bread is often substituted. When making a chopped Cubano, you could skip the grilling, especially if you don't plan on eating the sandwich right away. However, grilling the sandwich after you have scooped the chopped ingredients onto the bread is downright transitive. The process melts the cheese, warms the ham, toasts the bread, and offers the fullest experience of this signature Cuban sandwich. Chopped Poutine Sandwich Cross-section chopped poutine sub - TikTok Speaking of iconic foods that are associated with a specific country, next up we have the chopped poutine sandwich. You may be wondering why this is here, as poutine isn't a sandwich in its original firm. But we said this chopped sandwich trend is all about letting your imagination run wild, and that is precisely what TikTok user @gulasgrub did when he created the chopped poutine sandwich. The concept is so simple that we think it's a wonder we haven't seen this before. Start with crispy hot French fries, then add a handful of squeaky cheese curds and a ladle of hot gravy. Chop them all together and scoop the delicious mixture onto a slice of bread. Other toppings can be added if you're feeling creative, such as a few slices of crispy bacon, which @gulasgrub does in his TikTok. There are also several different varieties of poutine you could play with here, like ones that use butter chicken, pizza, or mushroom. Consider substituting conventional fries with ones made from sweet potato. Because poutine is best eaten warm, this is another chopped sandwich that would greatly benefit from being grilled oe cooked on a stovetop. Chopped Muffuletta Making a chopped muffuletta sub The muffuletta, also sometimes spelled as muffaletta, is a sandwich that is unique to New Orleans. It was reportedly invented in 1906 by Lupo Salvatore, who was attempting to sell to local Sicilian immigrant workers in his store, the Central Grocery in the city's French Quarter. Salvatore had noticed that his customers were buying loaves of muffuletta bread, sliced meat, cheese, and olive salad for their lunches. It only made sense to sell these ingredients together as a premade sandwich. Since you're already chopping ingredients for the olive salad, why not take a small extra step and chop everything together? Grab a variety of sliced Italian meats, such as soppressata, salami, mortadella, prosciutto, and capicola (though feel free to mix and match). Sliced provolone is usually the cheese of choice. Both olive salad and giardiniera are classic additions and can be made fresh or purchased ready-made from a store. Rather than slather this on a slice of muffuletta right away, it's worth waiting a little bit. Allow the ingredients to marinate together, enhancing the unique flavors found in this distinctly New Orleans classic. If you want a side, forgoing the bread altogether also makes for a nice chopped salad. Chopped Caprese Sub Chopped turkey caprese sub - TikTok The light and refreshing Caprese salad is quite possibly one of the most well known salads in the world. It was named for the isle of Capri, where it may or may not have been invented. In Italy, the Caprese salad is also known as insalata Tricolore, or tricolor salad, because it contains the three colors of the Italian flag: green, white, and red. The ingredients are basic but go together beautifully. Simply alternate slices of mozzarella and fresh tomato, then dot the plate with whole leaves of sweet basil. Drizzle on some extra virgin olive oil, add a sprinkle of salt to bring out more flavor, and there you have it: a Caprese salad. Some people also add a bit of balsamic vinegar for a hit of sweetness and acidity. To turn this simple salad into a sumptuous sub, take those slices of mozzarella and tomato and get to chopping. Cutting up the basil leaves will release the herb's flavor and its aroma, too. Left as-is, the Caprese salad sub is a terrific vegetarian meal. However, a combination pizza and sub shop in Somerville, Massachusetts called Mortadella Head created the chopped turkey caprese that may also be worth a try. It is made with sliced turkey, prosciutto, provolone, tomatoes, lettuce, basil, salt and pepper, a house vinaigrette made from olive oil and red wine vinegar, and pesto mayonnaise all served on a baguette. Chopped BLT Chopped BLT sub - TikTok While on the subject of classics, we have to talk about the BLT. Yes, you may stick with the bacon, lettuce, and tomato when crafting this sandwich, but you can also easily mix it up. There are more combinations of BLTs than one could possibly count, and they are all so easy to chop. If you need inspiration, just search TikTok for #choppedblt. For starters, why stop at sandwich bread? Try a baguette or a hoagie roll. Bonus points if it's toasted. Mayonnaise is an expecially nice addition to the chopped BLT because it helps the ingredients adhere to one another. A fried egg and avocado are other popular BLT additions that also happen to meld beautifully with the chopped version. A BLT is very similar to a club sandwich, which, at its core, is a BLT with the addition of mayonnaise and sliced turkey or chicken. It's difficult to say which sandwich came first. But as far as chopping goes, a slice of turkey or chicken is a proven tasty sandwich mate, and so you wouldn't be wrong to add it to your own chopped BLT. Chopped Caesar Sub Chopped Caesar sub - TikTok The Caesar salad is another one of the most famous salads in the world. While there is some dispute over which individual first mixed the salad, there is little doubt as to where and when it happened: in Tijuana, Mexico in the 1920s. And no, it isn't named for Rome's Julius Caesar. Instead, it was given the title after Italian immigrant Cesare Cardini, who is said to have assembled the salad one fortuitious day. Today, many variations of the Caesar salad abound, and you are more than welcome to use any of them to make your chopped Caesar sub. But, if you want to stick to the original recipe, gather crisp romaine lettuce, a bottle of Cardini's Original dressing, fresh Parmesan cheese, and a lemon. Caesar salads also include croutons, but in this case, the bread can stand in for them. Mortadella Head, the pizza and sandwich shop that served the chopped Caprese salad sub mentioned above, also makes a Caesar salad sub that is punched up with prosciutto and a fried chicken cutlet. Chopped Greek Sandwich Cross-section chopped Greek sub - TikTok There are actually a few different ways this chopped sandwich has popped up on TikTok. First, there is the version that takes its cue from Greek salad, with all of its bright colors and flavors of the Greek islands. It may surprise you to learn that traditional Greek salads do not contain lettuce. Instead, what you need are tomatoes, a cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, chickpeas, feta cheese, and, of course, Kalamata olives for their signature briny taste. Top it all off with a vinaigrette. Just be sure to remove the pits in the olives before chopping your ingredients and scooping the mixture onto your bread or into a pita. If you are more interested in a chopped salad inspired by Greek flavors, go wild with the lettuce as well as any combination of the ingredients listed above. TikTok user @gulasgrub created a chopped sub sandwich with chicken souvlaki, tomatoes, onion, homemade tzatziki, and crispy French fries to round out this complete meal in one sandwich. Of course, if you don't like the idea of French fries in a sandwich, you can always enjoy them on the side as you would with a normal gyro. And you can't go wrong with a nice warm pita to wrap it all up in. Chopped Hot Dog Sub Netherlands-inspired sausage sub - TikTok Yes, "hot dog" is a broad category that comes with seemingly countless subheadings. If you are feeling skeptical, stick with us anyway, because TikTok has some terrific suggestions for chopped hot dog and hot dog-adjacent sandwiches. First, there are the classic regional hot dogs to consider, such as the Chicago dog, Coney Island hot dog, Fenway frank, and Cleveland Polish boy, any of which would be fun to play around with to create a sub sandwich. We think the hot dogs containing chili sound especially tantalizing. And don't forget about cheese! Hot dogs are basically an American style of sausage. If you follow them to their roots in Europe, so many more sandwich options open up before you. TikTok user @gulasgrub created a chopped sandwich inspired by Germany that uses bratwurst as well two other kinds of sliced wurst, sauerkraut, mustard, and more. In another chopped sandwich that takes inspiration from the Netherlands, he uses rookwurst, a kind of Dutch sausage. The Netherlands already has a culinary practice known prakken, which means mashing different foods together on your plate. Considering there are multiple kinds of Dutch sausages, this is one cuisine you could go to town on when it comes to making a chopped sandiwch. Chopped Full English Breakfast Full English breakfast sub - TikTok Breakfast sandwiches are everywhere these days. There's the BLT, of course, but just about any fast food restaurant that is open in the morning has some sort of egg, cheese, bacon, and/or sausage combination on a bagel, biscuit, or English muffin. And sure, you could chop those ingredients together, and they'd probably taste excellent. But maybe you're here to get a little wild with it. Have you considered a sandwich made from a full English breakfast? A lot goes into a full English breakfast. While there is no set list of items, expect to find fried eggs, bacon, sausage, baked beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast. Sometimes you will also find black pudding, potatoes, or, if you are in Scotland, you'll likely find haggis and oatcakes. This leaves you with plenty of options for sandwich making. Although baked beans aren't a common breakfast item in the United States, in a chopped sandwich, they provide some liquid to better bind the ingredients together. You can also add some classic British brown sauce. A full breakfast of any culture is generally meant to be hearty and give you the energy you need to make it through the day. We're pretty sure a sandwich made from a full English breakfast will keep you going strong for hours. Chopped Turkey Sub Cross-section chopped turkey sub - TikTok After that brief trip around the world in sandwiches, it may seem pretty boring to land on a plain old turkey sub, but it's a classic for a reason. Versatile and made with easy-to-find ingredients that are assembled to your liking, you can't really go wrong with a chopped turkey sub. According to TikTok user @hey.itsjo, Farmer in the Deli makes the best chopped turkey subs in Brooklyn. For a take on their sandwich, try a honey turkey and Swiss with lettuce, tomato, onion, sweet peppers, mayonnaise, a few grinds of black pepper, and a splash of vinegar. Or how about a maple turkey with pickles, onions, cheese, mayonnaise, oil and vinegar, jalapenos, and mustard? Or Cajun turkey? Or a chopped turkey club? If you aren't feeling that fancy, you can simply chop together cuts of deli turkey, shredded lettuce, slices of tomato, sliced cheese, a hefty scoop of mayonnaise, and a final dash of salt and pepper to help bring out the overall flavor. Scoop this mixture onto a hoagie roll, grab a bag of potato chips, and you will surey have a satisfying and tasty lunch that we hope you had fun creating. Chopped Ham And Cheese Cross-section of chopped ham and cheese sub - TikTok With the previously-mentioned Cuban sandwich as well as the turkey sub, we have already hinted that there are tons of options when it comes to craftubg something as seemingly simple as a ham and cheese chopped sandwich. France is an excellent country to draw inspiration from when looking to soup up a ham and cheese sandwich. There is the grilled croque monsieur and its variant, the croque madame, as well as the extremely popular jambon-beurre, or ham and butter, which may also be topped with cheese to make a jambon-fromage. To make a French-inspired chopped sub, TikTok user @gulasgrub used French ham and cheese, slices of tomato, what appears to be arugula, and a French dressing. If you want to get even more French, then you can easily use a baguette or croissant for the bread. Working out of what appears to be a Jersey Mike's kitchen, TikTok user @thatcrazysubguy creates an impressive ham and cheese chopped sub with provolone, thinly sliced ham, prosciuttini, cappacuolo, salami, pepperoni, bacon, shredded lettuce, sliced onion, oil and vinegar, oregano, salt, pepper, chipotle mayonnaise, and cherry pepper relish. The pig products may substantially outweigh the cheese in this one, but at its heart, this is still a ham and cheese sandwich (if a seriously hefty one). Read the original article on Mashed. Funeral services were held earlier this month for Blossom Warren, 95, a pioneering fashion executive. Born Blossom Tilzer in the Bronx, she stayed rooted in New York throughout her life and graduated from the City College of New York. In 1952, she married David Warren who, after working for the American sportswear manufacturer Bobby Brooks, started his own company, The Warren Group, in 1967. Through that entity, the dress-focused business evolved to include the David Warren, DW3, Morton Myles, Rimini, Richard Warren, Riggio and Richard Warren II Sportswear labels. More from WWD At its peak, the company employed about 200 people and generated annual sales of $65 million. Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Dillards and Bloomingdales were among the major retailers that bought into the Warren Groups various labels. There was also a consistent business with specialty stores nationwide. When David Warren died of colon cancer at the age of 56 in 1981, his wife became chairman of the board, worked alongside Morris Marmalstein and her two sons, Richard and Michael. With her shock of red hair, sky-high Charles Jourdan heels and Chanel jackets, Blossom Warren was often the first to arrive to the office each morning and never missed a day of work. A visionary corporate leader, she wanted the designers, salespeople and all employees to realize their capabilities and was among the first fashion companies to adopt Dale Carnegie training. She was committed to carrying on her husbands legacy and she really loved what she was doing, said her daughter-in-law Marcy Warren, who befriended Blossom before her future husband Michael when she worked at the company in the 80s. Blossom Warren traveled all over Europe choosing fabrics and styles and attended fashion weeks in Paris and Milan to glean inspiration. Quality-oriented and hands-on, she canvassed the companys 17 factories in China, Korea, Japan, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong and the Philippines. Her nephew, Robert Maslin, a former Warren group executive, had a birds-eye view of her professional side. I worked with her for 20 years, and I watched her return lunch almost every day. Its hard to believe that you could screw up an egg salad sandwich so much. But she was a good cook, he said. She was involved with every single design meeting, when we had 12 divisions. She was very instrumental with what was approved to be sewn. Even at 95, she would outpace Maslin on city sidewalks en route to enjoying a martini at Il Murino. Philippe was another favoorite haunt so much so, that the bartender name her preferred gin apple-tini The Blossom. In 1998, the Leslie Fay Co. acquired the Warren Group, which had seen sales decrease due partially to retail consolidation and increased competition from designer labels. By 1999, the companys sales were estimated to be $40 million. Around the time of the acquisition, Blossom Warren exited the company, serving on the board of the Pierre Hotel (where she also resided). She continued to be involved in real estate and also investing. She also became a master bridge player and traveled extensively making the most of the five languages that she spoke. At 80 and in three-and-a-half inch heels, she climbed The Great Wall of China with relatives and at 85, she rode a donkey up a mountain near Petra. She was a diehard New Yorker. She didnt go to restaurants to eat she went for the atmosphere, to see the latest fashions and who was there. Should she be seated next to Woody Allen, she wanted to see what his date was wearing, Marcy Warren said. It was more about being a true New Yorker and a fashionista, adding that even hospitalized, her signature coif and red manicure were intact. When one of her four grandchildren, Andrew, got into the fashion business with his Just Drew collection, she offered her insights. Warren also supported institutions philanthropically including Parson School of Design and the United Jewish Appeal among others. Many of the former employees attended Blossom Warrens Sept. 7 funeral in New York City. She died two days prior due to a perforated colon at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, according to Marcy Warren. Best of WWD Click here to read the full article. How have 10 years gone by so quickly? John Legend and Chrissy Teigen have been married for a decade now, and, People reports, the couple renewed their vows for their tenth wedding anniversary in a very romantic ceremony. The pair married on September 14, 2013, in Lake Como, Italy, and returned to the location for the vow renewal this weekend, a source told the outlet. The festivities kicked off with a brunch at Villa Pizzowhich is the site of the couples first wedding ceremony back in 2014on Saturday. They arrived by boat, they said. It was breathtaking to see them still so happy together. Chrissy Teigen and John Legend at an event Later in the day yesterday, the vow renewal ceremony took place. [John and Chrissy] came out onto a balcony and greeted all the guests, they said. [John] also held a brief speech later, after the dinner. There was dancing and there was a lakeside bar that was a big favorite. The food was appreciated. The source also noted there were flowers everywhere, adding Its been a very elegant, very classic event. Page Six reports that Teigen wore a sheer, black lace long-sleeved gown with a structured bodice and ruffled detailing on the shoulders; she styled her hair in loose waves, which she seemingly tried to keep intact amid gusty winds by ducking down on the boat where they married for the second time. Legend wore a white suit jacket, black trousers, and a bow tie. Chrissy Teigen and John Legend at an event Legend and Teigen first met in 2006 on the set of Legends music video for Stereo. In the early years of their relationship, the two traveled to Lake Como together, which is where Tiegen first realized she wanted to marry Legend. In a 2016 post to Instagram , she shared a photo of the two of them with the caption Back to where it all beganLake Como, Italyfirst came here in 2007. A boat tour guide took us to a little spot on the lake and told us to make a wish. I asked for this to be the man I marry and have children with. I think John asked for the most perfect bite of cacio e pepe. Both came true, and here we are. Legend proposed in December 2011, and the couple married in a private ceremony at a New York City courthouse on September 10. Four days later, they married in Lake Como, Teigen in a Vera Wang gown; Legend serenaded her withwhat else?All of Me, the song he dedicated in her honor. Fast forward 10 years, and the pair share four children together. Teigen, for her part, teased their vow renewal ceremony on social media earlier this week, writing on her Instagram story Thursday 10th anniversary weekend is commmming, with a snapshot of a poolside location. The most perfect day, she added, along with the hashtag #johnXchrissy. Chrissy Teigen and John Legend at an event After the ceremony, Teigen shared a photo on Instagram of a laptop playing The Office, with three dishes situated on a bed nearby. The food was, naturally, Italian: pasta, pizza slices, and a bowl of tomatoes and cheesewhich makes any anniversary even better. To keep the party going, the couple will host a pool party today. Luxury brand Awet is propelling its purpose with its first flagship. The store a 2,100-square-foot space located at 57 Bond Street features an ever-evolving roster of luxury designers of color, a first-of-its-kind in New York City in a permanent fixture. The brand celebrated its launch Saturday night with an event. More from WWD Brands featured in the stores opening curation include Brooklyn-based Muehleder, Los Angeles-based Harbison Studio, Busayo and jewelry brand Gogo. The new shop is called Livewear, a term the designers collectively coined to describe the modern and timeless essentials customers cant live without. In the spirit of community, the store will also serve as a space for designers to host events, art shows and gatherings to foster bonds within the community. Through shopping at Livewear, customers get the chance to learn about new and diverse luxury brands. On the opening, founder and creative director Awet Woldegebriel said, As a new brand, we know how difficult it can be to open a brick-and-mortar store, especially in a prime location like Bond Street with excellent foot traffic and an upscale clientele. In the spirit of community, were so excited to introduce New York Citys first BIPOC luxury store, in which we prioritize and promote BIPOCowned businesses. Woldegebriel told WWD the space is meant to marry art, design and passion to make the storefront more of a destination rather than just a place of commerce. Weve been missing that [experience] for a long time in New York City, so were really trying to figure out what kind of artist should we invite, what kind of furniture designers that they usually sell at galleries? It elevates the space in a way. On top of that, usually with BIPOC brands, its some hanger in the corner. Its not well done, he said. I want to make sure the BIPOC brands that weve invited to be a part of this are celebrated. Art, design and passion blend at the Livewear store. Local artists and emerging furniture designers created a modern and polished space. Store designer Jose Esperon looked to clean materials and muted colors for the stores design so artwork had a visible presence without detracting from the minimalist design. Esperon said a shared vision with Woldegebriel fueled the space. This isnt the first time the fashion designer has collaborated to execute his vision. Last February for New York Fashion Week, Woldegebriel put together a Black-owned brand showroom in a 2,000-square-foot storefront in SoHo. In December 2021, the designer partnered with Kenneth Cole to host a holiday pop-up shop. Awets new flagship which is in Coles former space is a fitting tribute to Coles 40th brand anniversary. As with all of the brands initiatives, Awets goal is to lighten the financial lift for brands. As such, designers will keep 100 percent of their sales, while being a viable contributor to the spaces culture and events. A view of the Livewear store. Best of WWD Click here to read the full article. Gisele Bundchen is skipping happy hour. The Brazilian supermodel, 43, recently appeared on a panel for herbal supplement brand Gaia Herbs and discussed how her pivot to natural wellness remedies has served her much more than drinking, sharing that she "hasn't drank alcohol in over two years and it's amazing how much more clear I feel." I meditate everyday, I exercise every day, Bundchen shared, People reported. "I wasnt so good in my 20s or my teens I realized my body is my temple and I really want to enjoy it. So for me, moving my body is huge. The Victoria's Secret icon is not the only celebrity to discuss their journey with cutting back on alcohol lately. Back in April, Jennifer Garner told Harper's BAZAAR that she was "re-examining her own relationship with alcohol as a means to "protect her brain" following more intensive research about alcohol's effects. Chrissy Teigen, who quit drinking in 2021, said on social media that she "now has endless energy" and "way less anxiety" without alcohol, and is "happier and more present than ever." Why might people feel better when cutting back or cutting out alcohol? Here's what experts say. What are some of the physical benefits of lowering your alcohol intake? The long-term effects of alcohol have been reported extensively, and include everything from alcoholic liver disease and stroke to diabetes and cognitive decline, according to Verywell Health. But for people who would like to improve their overall health, cutting back on alcohol could have positive effects. Dr. Sarah Andrews, assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, previously told Yahoo Life that abstaining from alcohol for even a month can highlight the benefits of sobriety, which can include "weight loss, more energy and improvement in mood and anxiety." Cutting back on booze can also help people who struggle to sleep well, Andrews noted. Since alcohol can cause you to wake up in the middle of the night as your body metabolizes it, it breaks apart your quality of sleep. As a result, it can lead to physical health issues like higher blood pressure, as well as a lower ability to concentrate, and a negative impact on mood. The impact isn't only for those who are drinking to excess. A study conducted at Imperial College London and published in 2021 found that consuming any alcohol even within the guidelines of 14 units over a week may harm the body, Yahoo Life previously reported. Even just a couple of drinks a day could adversely impact one's health, increasing their risk for Alzheimers, cardiovascular and liver disease. What are some tips for cutting back on alcohol? If you are considering cutting back on alcohol, think about keeping track of what actually goes into your body. Dr. Ross Perry, a general practitioner and medical director at Cosmedics, recommends logging your alcoholic beverages in a journal. "The first step is to keep a diary of how much alcohol youre actually consuming," Perry previously told Yahoo Life. "Many of us may not realize our real booze intake, especially during the pandemic." He advised planning ahead for alcohol-free days, as well as slowly reducing the frequency of your drinking to see how it affects you. "If you drink daily, start by drinking every other and then slowly reduce this down, first to every few days, then perhaps just a weekend," he said. Just be careful not to binge on the days that you do permit yourself to drink, he advises. "While in the short-term you can risk things like alcohol poisoning, in the long-term it may boost the likelihood you'll develop liver disease, high blood pressure, stroke, certain cancers, and heart disease," he added. If you were trying to hazard a guess at which grocery store sells the most sushi, you might naturally assume it would be one of the big wholesalers such as Costco or Sam's Club. Or perhaps you would go with a store known for its natural and organic, eco-minded ethos like Whole Foods Market. But no, leading the charge in purveying those raw seafood rolls that people either seem to love or hate is Kroger, which sells more than 40 million pieces of sushi in an average year. In 2022, that number was 44 million rolls. The Cincinnati-based chain isn't exactly small. In fact, it's the largest grocer in the United States with approximately 2,800 stores that operate under a host of different names across 35 states and it rakes in annual sales of $132.5 billion. It has also openly acknowledged that pushing sushi is part of its marketing strategy to help draw people into its doors and get them to spend even more money on prepared meals. More than two out of three Kroger stores have designated sushi sections, and Stuart Aitken, the chain's chief merchant and marketing officer, told the Wall Street Journal, "When customers think of sushi, we want them to think of Kroger." Read more: Here Are The Signs You're Eating Cheap Fish Not The Best, But Certainly Not The Worst Sushi section of supermarket - Retail Photographer/Shutterstock Grocery store sushi is big business in the U.S., with a sales increase of over 70% for American retailers from 2019-2023. Supermarkets have been vying for a larger share of the sushi market in competition with restaurants, capitalizing on its popularity and the wide variety of roll combinations and flavors that appeal to diverse palates. While Kroger beat out the competition in peddling the highest quantity of sushi, when it comes to quality, respondents to our survey about the best grocery store sushi overwhelmingly chose Whole Foods Market as its top choice, with 46.95% of participants selecting the Amazon-owned supermarket. Kroger finished in a distant second, claiming 18.62% of the vote. Since supermarket sushi can be a real hit-or-miss venture anyway, perhaps it is more important to know which grocery store has the worst sushi, according to consumers. That dubious distinction belongs to none other than Walmart, with nearly 55% of Mashed survey respondents picking the world's largest retailer as the nation's most disappointing grocery store sushi. Kroger fell somewhere in the middle, with 14.65% of the vote. So while Kroger may not be recognized as the best sushi, it is certainly no slouch as its sales figures validate. Read the original article on Mashed. Modern tech journalism would likely look far differently today, if not for the efforts of Dorothy Vaughan , Katherine Johnson and a host of other trailblazing female reporters who staffed the Science Service throughout the publication's history. These journalists were among the very first science communicators, making sense of the newfangled technological wonders of the 1920s through 1950s and bringing that understanding to their readers often in spite of the personalities and institutions they were covering. In Writing for Their Lives: America's Pioneering Female Science Journalists, historian Marcel Chotkowski Lafollette highlights not just the important work that these women performed but examines how their diverse backgrounds enhanced their science communication. In the excerpt below recounts the hectic days and weeks in the outlets newsroom following America's use of a terrifying new "atom" bomb. newsprint background with overlaid images of pioneering female science journalists. Title in black block letters, subhed in smaller red font, author in even smaller black font. Excerpted from Writing for Their Lives: America's Pioneering Female Science Journalists, by Marcel Chotkowski LaFollette. Published by The MIT Press. Copyright 2023 MIT. All rights reserved. Team Spirit In the weeks following the August 1945 dropping of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the Science Service staff frequently apologized for their tardy responses to any correspondence that had arrived that month. Just about the time that your letter arrived here, we were completely showered with debris from the atom bombs, Martha Morrow wrote somewhat facetiously. This note of appreciation would have gotten off sooner if we had not had atomic bombs and peace crashing down on us, Jane Stafford told another scientist. The journalists internal memos, however, exuded a sense of accomplishment. They had risen to the challenge of covering extraordinary breaking news; they had collaborated, cooperated, and served their readers well. Because Watson Davis happened to be traveling in South America during the first week of August 1945, the five editorial writers remaining in Washington worked as a team, with each person applying a different interpretative frame to explaining the development and use of an atomic bomb. Morrow focused on the physics; Stafford looked at radiation and physiology; Marjorie Van de Water concentrated on the psychological and social implications; Helen Davis explored the chemistry of explosions; and Frank Thone focused on the biological impacts. Van de Water later recalled the electric atmosphere: The telephone ringing all the day interrupted thought and work. Two of these calls summed up neatly the problems of the writer who tries to tell the public about the findings of scientific research. One inquiry was concise and practical, easily answered. What is an atom? this caller wanted to know. I gave him a convenient definition, but he was not quite satisfied. Thats fine, he said, But now could you add a little something to make this whole thing more com- prehensible? The other was a preacher. He was alarmed at what he had read in the afternoon papers. What are the implications of this thing? he wanted to know. Where will it end? Is man going to destroy himself utterly? Does it mean the end of the world? As she concluded, It was not possible to think of anything else except one stupendous factatomic fission, atomic power, atomic destruction, unlimited except by the unpredictable desires of the human heart. The general outlines and mission of the Manhattan Project had not, of course, surprised these reporters. Preliminary discussions about the feasibility of atomic weapons occurred long before the imposition of official secrecy. Helens daughter, Charlotte, used her familys own special code words when she wrote her mother on August 7 from Rhode Island, where she worked in a US Navy laboratory: The first I saw of the news was on the bus at Providence last night. A small boy came aboard selling the Boston Record which was headlined Atomic Bomb Terror. I regret to say that with all my previous knowledge and good guesses about Shangri-La and that other place in Tennessee I merely said to myself Oh well, the Record! and went to sleep. Not until I saw the Providence Journal and the New York Times did the import of the matter dawn on me. Helen replied a few days later, apologizing for the delayas you can guess, the atomic bomb has us running in circles. Watson was scheduled to be in Buenos Aires on August 6, yet cables to him at the US embassy in Argentina had gone unanswered. Helen quipped that she wanted to send him a telegram saying, Having an awful time, wish you were here. Messages from the office trailed Watson around Latin America, with Staffords telegram (YOUR ATOMIZING STAFF MISSES AND GREETS YOU) eventually catching up with him in Uruguay. His reply revealed his regret at having missed the action: WHAT DAYS TO BE AWAY FROM WASHINGTON HOPE WE PLASTERED ATOMIC BOMB. Once the official technical report (a document known as the Smyth Report) was released, newspaper clients expected succinct technical summaries almost immediately. The news service produced that material in record time. Other than Martha, Helen was the only one on the staff who understood the bombs basic physics and chemistry, and she complained that she felt "more like Hamlet every day: Oh, wretched spite, That I was ever born to set them right!'" Helen even quickly wrote an editorial on atomic power for the next issue of Chemistry, which was just going to press. On the afternoon of August 11, having practically disintegrated along with the atom all this week," Helen wrote a catch-up letter to Charlotte. For the first few days, she explained, they had had only the bare announcement that the weapons had exploded as designed and civilians had been killed. In the thick of the fight, during the previous week, she had had doubts about their coverage, but after seeing what the rest of the world did with the story, she told Charlotte, she realized we didnt do too badly. New Questions Helens September 2 letter to Watson (who was by then in Mexico and trying to get home) offered another perspective on the complicated office politics: So much has happened, I probably cant do more than hit the highest spots. First and biggest, of course, was the atom bomb. We will probably never be the same again! The story broke . . . with the Presidents announcement. We had the War Department releases, but Frank was sitting on them, in a complete dither, but writing like mad. Nobody dared interrupt him. He finally yelled to me to do a piece on the atom and what it is. His story and mine were all that made the DMR [Daily Mail Report] that day. Cool-headed preparation eventually prevailed. When the writers learned that the War Department planned to release the official technical report at the end of that first week, they decided to start drafting background material yet not get too far out on a limb. By the time copies of the Smyth Report arrived on Friday, Thone was already on his way to a meeting in Boston. Martha was racing back from vacation. For a time, which seemed then just a few minutes short of eternity, Helen wrote, there was nobody but Jane, Marjorie, and me to carry on. When we three get together and pool our talents, youd be surprised what a good physicist we make! She described the Smyth Report as amazing: It is multilithed, and over an inch thick. We got two copies. One we kept intact, the other we pulled the staples out of, so we could work on parts of it all at once. Jane Stafford, I think, has read all the chapter headings through consecutively, for she set herself that task. The rest of us just pick up any sheet at random and find at least one story that has to be written now, without bothering with anything else. That report, Helen told Charlotte, made all physics and chemistry B.A.B. (Before Atom Bomb, of course) completely obsolete, and is beautifully written and as exciting as a detective story. Because the War Department wanted publishers to reprint the report in whole or in part, Helen rear- ranged it and wrote connecting paragraphs, making it the central focus of the September 1945 Chemistry. That issue was later praised for its clarity. Helen not only understood the technical aspects but also had the ability to explain them, as demonstrated in her revised edition of the Laws of Matter Up-to-Date feature in October 1945. During those same busy weeks, Helen even sketched mock-ups and text estimates for a brochure (Atomic Power) to advertise the organizations capability to answer technical questions like, When you split an atom of uranium, what elements do you have as a result? And she compiled a three-page list of important dates in the history of the atom to share with her colleagues. The real news story, though, would involve unpacking the weapons social, political, and economic consequences, attempting to understand whether and to what extent the awesome power would be good only for the destruction of cities and of people as well as how its existence might affect future generations. The implications of that alchemists dream (Helens ironic phrase) intensified public interest in all science. As the editor of the Pittsburgh Press told his staff, Abstruse science has been popularized by a situation which has made the public read and discuss material it would otherwise never have heard ofbecause it involved the lives and safety of their own loved ones. All over the country, adults and students began writing to newspapers, scientists, and public officials, asking for more information about atomic energy. One young woman who planned to major in chemistry and physics at Vassar College wrote directly to Vannevar Bush, head of the Office of Scientific Research and Development. Bushs secretary asked Helen to respond. Helen answered each question (e.g., Exactly what happens within the nucleus of the Uranium atom before it splits? What are the remaining materials after the atom splits? How long will it be before these radioactive materials disintegrate?) with detailed explanations and references to relevant sections of the Smyth Report, and enclosed the latest issue of Chemistry as added encouragement to a budding young science student. posztos / Shutterstock.com Mexico is blessed with sunshine, culture and food loved the world over. But best of all for retirees, perhaps, is its affordability. Because of a combination of these reasons and its proximity to the United States Mexico has by far the greatest number of American expats in the world. With nearly three times as many expats as second-place Canada, Mexico is clearly the country of choice for American retirees looking to spend their golden years abroad. Many Mexican cities are cheap enough that American expats can live on $2,500 or less per month. This means that in many cases you can retire in Mexico on your Social Security check alone. To determine the top 10 options, GOBankingRates analyzed data from Numbeo Cost of Living regarding the price of various expenditures across Mexican cities and calculated their relative ranking. Here are the results, presented in reverse order. Other Options: 10 Best Canadian Cities To Retire on a Budget of $2,500 a Month See: The Simple, Effective Way To Fortify Your Retirement Mix 10. Mazatlan Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (With Rent): $1,292.38 Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (Without Rent): $675.50 Mazatlan has long been one of the most popular resort destinations in Mexico. In addition to having a stunning beachfront boardwalk and a historic district, the city is also very affordable for expats. The average one-bedroom rent in the city center, for example, is just $616.88. 9. La Paz Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (With Rent): $1,397.29 Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (Without Rent): $690.80 Active retirees will love the beachfront location of La Paz, which offers everything from sea kayaking and snorkeling with sea lions to whale watching and swimming with whale sharks. Back on shore, life is quite affordable, with a three-bedroom apartment outside the city center running just $541.56 on average. Check Out: 10 Safest Places To Retire in Asia for Less Than $2K a Month 8. Playa del Carmen Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (With Rent): $1,614.33 Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (Without Rent): $638.00 Story continues Playa del Carmen is a resort area, and its three-bedroom rents in the city center are actually quite pricey, averaging $ $1,929.77. But overall, this idyllic location is still quite affordable for expats. 7. Tijuana Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (With Rent): $1,493.81 Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (Without Rent): $740.10 Tijuana is one of the most accessible Mexican cities, and it remains quite popular with American expats. A one-bedroom apartment outside the city center can be had for just $397.40 on average. 6. Queretaro (Santiago de Queretaro) Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (With Rent): $1,217.92 Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (Without Rent): $671.70 QuerAtaro may not have the resort cachet of places like Mazatlan or Playa del Carmen but it is rich in cultural heritage, with a historic center thats a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its relative anonymity compared with some of its beachfront sister cities helps it keep a very low cost of living. A three-bedroom apartment outside of the city center, for example, may cost just $700.61. 5. Saltillo Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (With Rent): $884.74 Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (Without Rent): $619.80 Saltillo has the lowest rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of any Mexican city in the review, at just $264.94. The old colonial city in northern Mexico has an outstanding architectural heritage. 4. Puebla Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (With Rent): $1,067.49 Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (Without Rent): $620.60 Puebla boasts UNESCO World Heritage Site status and has been called the food capital of Mexico by some. The high-altitude city surrounded by volcanoes is quite affordable for retirees, with $271.96 covering the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center. 3. Veracruz Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (With Rent): $1,000.31 Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (Without Rent): $676.50 Veracruz has the lowest three-bedroom rents outside the city center of any surveyed Mexican city, at just $367.97 on average. In addition to the colonial-era buildings and great cuisine much of Mexico is known for, Veracruz is also an important sportfishing port. 2. Ensenada Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (With Rent): $1,195.85 Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (Without Rent): $621.40 Ensenada has a reputation as a party town known for great cantinas and fish tacos. And for some retirees, this sounds like paradise. But Ensenada is also a stones throw away from the wine country of Valle de Guadalupe, and it boasts endless beaches and sunsets. Overall, its one of the most affordable Mexican cities, with a one-bedroom apartment outside of the city center averaging just $338.53 per month. 1. Aguascalientes Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (With Rent): $861.59 Single Person Average Monthly Expenditures Cost (Without Rent): $583.00 Aguascalientes has low costs across the board, but it particularly shines in terms of one-bedroom rent outside the city center and three-bedroom rent inside the city center. At just $169.81 and $384.31 per month respectively, Aguascalientes has the lowest costs of any city surveyed in those categories. Methodology: To find the best cities in Mexico to retire on a budget of $2,500 a month, GOBankingRates analyzed the cost of living of different Mexican cities across a variety of expenditure categories sourced from Numbeo Cost of Living. To qualify for our list each city had to have every data point available for accurate calculations. An additional cost was added to cover healthcare, sourced from InternationalLivings Healthcare in Mexico. GOBankingRates calculated scores for every expenditure category and combined them within each expenditure category then totaled the score to show the best Mexican cities to retire on a budget of $2,500 a month. 15 cities met all the qualifications and are ranked from best to worst. Rent averages for 1 bedroom within the city center and out of the city center, and 3 bedrooms within the city center and out of the city center were also included as supplemental information sourced from Numbeo Cost of Living. All data was collected and is up-to-date as-of September 1st, 2023. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 10 Best Mexican Cities To Retire on a Budget of $2,500 a Month The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation removed Rolling Stone magazine co-founder Jann Wenner from its board of directors, the organization said Saturday. The Rock Hall referred reporters to a publicity firm that confirmed in an emailed statement Wenners removal from the board of the organization he helped found in 1983. The news comes one day after The New York Times published an interview with Wenner regarding his forthcoming book, The Masters, which contains interviews with musicians all white men including Bob Dylan, Mick Jagger, John Lennon, Bruce Springsteen and Bono. Wenner was asked why the book did not include interviews with women or people of color. Just none of them were as articulate enough on this intellectual level, Wenner is quoted as saying about the women of rock. In the interview he expressed similar thoughts regarding Black rock artists, some of whom created the music and culture Wenner reflected upon and profited from with Rolling Stone. Of Black artists you know, Stevie Wonder, genius, right? Wenner said, according to the interview. I suppose when you use a word as broad as masters, the fault is using that word. Maybe Marvin Gaye, or Curtis Mayfield? I mean, they just didnt articulate at that level. Wenner said in the interview that his selection of musicians for the book was intuitive and what I was interested in, and acknowledged that there might be criticism of his choice. You know, just for public relations sake, maybe I should have gone and found one Black and one woman artist to include here that didnt measure up to that same historical standard, just to avert this kind of criticism, he said in the interview. Which, I get it. I had a chance to do that. On Saturday night, Wenner released a statement apologizing for his comments. In my interview with The New York Times I made comments that diminished the contributions, genius, and impact of Black and women artists and I apologize wholeheartedly for those remarks, he said. The author said the forthcoming book, was not meant to represent the whole of music and its diverse and important originators but to reflect the high points of my career and interviews I felt illustrated the breadth and experience in that career. Wenner said he has an admiration for world-changing artists not represented in the book whom he will celebrate and promote as long as I live. His publisher, Little, Brown and Company, did not respond to a request seeking comment Saturday night. Wenners remarks in The New York Times interview have been widely criticized. Evelyn McDonnell, a Loyola Marymount University journalism professor and expert on music, gender and politics, said on Facebook that Wenner expressed sexism and racism for decades that underly many false master narratives about music history. She said such exclusion inspired her to curate and edit the book Rock She Wrote in 1995 with NPR pop critic Ann Powers, report on the Hall of Fames gender inequity and edit the book Women Who Rock. Author Dawnie Walton called Wenners quoted words enraging, disgusting, offensive. Craig Seymour, who identifies himself as a Black Gay Music Critic, said on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, that the popular music industry includes an oppressive system of value that Rolling Stone helped create and perpetuate. Rolling Stone was well-known for initially snubbing waves of music, from hip-hop to electronic dance music, that may have existed outside its vision of rock n roll culture a vision usually dominated by white, baby boomer-created music with poetic aspiration and anti-establishment undertones. Wenner founded Rolling Stone with journalist Ralph J. Gleason in San Francisco in 1967. This story originally appeared on NBCNews.com. This article was originally published on TODAY.com Costco has amazing deals on all kinds of groceries, especially when it comes to their own in-house Kirkland brand. But one of the most satisfying experiences for any Costco shopper is finding a bargain on a name-brand, gourmet item. Lately, eagle-eyed shoppers have been scooping up Kewpie mayonnaise at the big box warehouse, which is a major cult favorite ingredient among chefs and in-the-know foodies. David Chang, in particular, has said that it is the best mayonnaise in the world, according to Salon, so when it's on the shelves at Costco for a discount, it's a big deal. Before you fill your cart with containers of the fabled mayo, however, you should know that it's not quite the same as the original spread. Apparently, Kewpie mayonnaise is made to different specifications in Japan versus in the U.S., and the internet seems to agree that the U.S. version isn't as good as the original Japanese version. Unfortunately, the Kewpie sold at Costco is an American-made formula. That might not be a big issue if you've never had the original, but it's probably a good idea to do a side-by-side taste test before you buy a Costcosized amount of mayonnaise. Read more: 5 Best Mayonnaise Brands To Buy, And 5 To Avoid The Original Kewpie Has MSG Kewpie mayonnaise on store shelf - Colleen Michaels/Shutterstock If you're wondering, "How different can two bottles of mayonnaise really be," all you need to do is compare the labels of a container of Japanese-made Kewpie and one of its U.S. counterparts. Right away, it'll be obvious that there's a major ingredient missing from the American version of Kewpie: Monosodium glutamate, aka MSG. This non-essential amino acid is what gives a lot of foods their savory, umami flavor, according to Thrillist. While the Kewpie that's imported from Japan has MSG, the U.S. manufacturers chose to stop including it in their formula around 2017, most likely because MSG is a more controversial ingredient in America. When compared side by side, many people who have bought both versions of the mayonnaise say that the U.S.-made Kewpie has an entirely different profile that doesn't have the bite of the Japanese version. "Totally different flavor!" said a commenter in one Reddit thread. "Japanese has a tang/kick -brightness to it while USA one is more eggy and blander." Color And Texture display of Kewpie mayonnaise - The Image Party/Shutterstock Flavor isn't the only difference mayonnaise eaters have noticed between U.S.- and Japanese-made Kewpie, either. In a TikTok comparing the different versions of Kewpie, @itshelenmelon points out that the colors are obviously different, with the U.S. version appearing much lighter. This embedded content is not available in your region. Other citizen tasters agree and point out that the textures are also different, including one Reddit commenter who said, "The Costco mayo is extremely tangy. Not sure if I'll buy it again. Here in Los Angeles the Costco one is 5.99 and the Japanese one is 7.99. The Japanese one is so rich and creamy and I don't need to use as much as the Costco one." So while the Costco Kewpie is tempting, and probably still pretty tasty, it's not the original formula that David Chang and other chefs rave about. If you want to get a good price on fancier mayonnaise, the Costco version is still a good price for gourmet mayo. But if you want to experience the real deal and see what all the hype is about, head to your local Asian grocery store like H Mart to find the Kewpie that's imported from Japan. Read the original article on Daily Meal. Lenzing, the Austrian producer of wood-based specialty fibers, has announced two separate collaborations, each in keeping with its sustainability goals. One improves the transparency and efficiency of the global supply chain, while the second is a footwear introduction made with Lenzings key sustainable fiber, the cellulosic Tencel Lyocell filament. The company revised its financial outlook for 2023 because of weak market conditions, according to Lenzing. More from Sourcing Journal The initiative to increase transparency is a partnership with supply chain solution company project44 on a plan to improve both the transparency and efficiency of the global fiber supply chain. At the center of the collaboration is a pioneering real-time ocean shipment tracker which also improves the visibility of carbon emissions among partners, a major industry development. Critical to the goal of addressing increasing supply chain problems and solving them, the new system has been built around a fully integrated application programming interface (API) between systems applications and products (SAP) and the project44 platform, Movement. This works with AI, GPS sensors, and machine learning technologies that enable Lenzing to provide customers with accurate real-time insights on fiber orders. That ranges from shipment status, container locations, vessel route tracking and estimated arrival times at ports of destination worldwide. The new information gives value chain partners access to Scope 3 carbon emission data on shipment and container levels, accredited by the Global Logistics Emission Council (GLEC). Such real-time data allows Lenzing and its customers to establish maximum allowable goals for carbon emissions and work toward them. The tracker will be available to all Lenzing customers beginning this month. The SuperNatural Runner sneaker made with ProWeave technology. The footwear collaboration is with Coats Footwear on the companys innovative ProWeave technology, woven with Tencel into newly reimagined shoe uppers and fabrics. The sneakers will be launched at the Lineapelle trade show in Milan, Sept. 19-21. ProWeave jacquard technology can be used with a range of different fibers and yarns, but the Milan introduction will be of the prototype of Circle Sportswears SuperNatural Runner, claimed to be the first synthetic-free performance footwear made with Tencel and other bio-based materials. The combination of technologies gives the shoes an adaptive fit that mimics a second skin. Lenzing is the first raw materials supplier to collaborate with Coats on ProWeave, and in addition to Lyocell Filament, is exploring the adoption of Tencel branded lyocell and modal fibers in footwear uppers and fabrics. These are sourced from controlled and certified forests and are certified by the Vegan Society. Tencell Lyocell filament is known for its softness, color and vibrancy. Paul Jackson, ProWeave business unit leader at Coats Footwear, called working with Lenzing a natural partnership. Independently we are committed to helping companies lower the environmental impact of textile and footwear production processes by providing best-in-class materials and manufacturing technologies, he said. Together were revolutionizing the way uppers and materials can be made. The carbon visibility solution with project44 is another milestone for the Austria-based Lenzing. Our ability to implement groundbreaking carbon emission tracking at shipment and container level demonstrates that we are ready and eager to collaborate with our valued customers in jointly crafting ambitious carbon reduction targets, said Thomas Panholzer, vice president global supply chain, Lenzing. Panholzer noted also how recent prolonged Covid-related supply chain disruptions highlighted the importance of advanced ocean shipment tracking. Lenzings new real time shipment tracker dovetails with the companys Better Growth strategy, reinforcing a long-held commitment to transparency in the textile and nonwovens supply chain. Developing reliable supply chain visibility requires successful partnerships, according to Jett McCandless, founder and CEO of project44 whose data gives customers access to real-time information that locates shipments around the globe. We are continuously seeking partnerships with pioneers like Lenzing who strive to incorporate new solutions and technologies into their offerings, McCandless said. Lenzing lowered its earnings forecast based on the slow recovery of the textile companys markets to cautious EBITDA numbers that range from 270 million euros ($287.2 million) to 330 million euros ($351 million). Lenzing launched a cost reduction program in November 2022, which aimed to deliver the desired results ahead of schedule, according to CEO Stephen Sielaff. We are implementing a holistic and consistent value creation program with a focus on measures to strengthen profitability and cash flow generation, he said, and to exploit the growth potential in the fiber markets through targeted sales activities. Click here to read the full article. Long COVID affects an estimated 10% of all people who have COVID-19, making it a common complication of the virus. There are therefore many concerns about what this could mean for children and their long-term health if they happen to catch the virus. But a new research letter has a surprising discovery: Long COVID isn't common in kids at all. There's a lot to unpack with this research, and doctors stress that this doesn't mean that parents should be dismissive of COVID-19. However, they agree that it's heartening news. Here's what the data and doctors have to say about long COVID and kids. What the study says The study, which was published in JAMA Pediatrics, finds that long COVID is incredibly rare in children. What are the key findings? For the research letter, scientists analyzed longitudinal data from 1,026 children with a mean age of 10.5 years in Alberta, Canada, between August 2020 and March 2021. Parents were asked to report their children's symptoms every two weeks for 76 weeks. Children were considered to have long COVID (known medically as post-COVID conditions or post-COVID condition) if: They had a positive PCR test for a COVID-19 infection They had new symptoms that started three months after a positive PCR test for the virus And the symptoms lasted for at least eight weeks after they started The symptoms were considered resolved if the children had a minimum of four weeks without symptoms. The most common symptoms children had after having COVID-19 included a sore throat (68%), stuffy nose (62%), headache (52%), cough (42%), fever (42%) and fatigue (35%). But researchers found that these symptoms got better within 10 weeks after children had a positive PCR test for COVID-19. Of all of the children who had a positive PCR test result for COVID-19, just one met the definition for long COVID used by the World Health Organization (WHO). According to the WHO, long COVID is defined as having symptoms of COVID-19 continue or develop three months after someone was initially infected with the virus. To be considered long COVID, the symptoms must last for at least two months with no other explanation, per the WHO. It's important to point out that, of the 1,026 children studied, 572 did not have a positive PCR test result. The study doesn't say whether those children had symptoms of COVID-19 and didn't have a positive PCR test result, or didn't have symptoms at all. However, many parents will simply test their children with an at-home rapid test, or not at all, which could suggest that long COVID is even more rare than the researchers found. The study's researchers concluded that the rate of long COVID was "strikingly low" in the children studied, noting that "most children experienced a resolution of symptoms within two weeks of infection." What experts think Doctors say this is great news for families. "It's obviously optimistic," Dr. William Schaffner, infectious disease specialist and professor of medicine at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, tells Yahoo Life. The study period includes both the Delta and Omicron strains of COVID-19, he points out, suggesting that the findings translate well to the existing circulating strains of the virus. "The symptoms these children had were also relatively minor compared to the spectrum of symptoms of long COVID in adults," Schaffner says. "Those can include brain fog, aches and pains, and a real inability to be able to function in society." Infectious disease expert Dr. Amesh A. Adalja, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, tells Yahoo Life that the findings are "not surprising," adding that "it's been clear for some time that long COVID is not a very common occurrence in children." Why it matters Schaffner says that this doesn't mean that families shouldn't take precautions against COVID-19, and he stresses the importance of getting kids the new updated COVID-19 vaccine. "We know that vaccination not only prevents severe COVID, it contributes to a reduction in long COVID," he says. "I wouldn't allow this one study all by itself to discourage you from vaccinating your children." Adalja also encourages parents to keep an eye on their children's symptoms after they recover from COVID-19, if they happen to get the virus. "If a child does experience symptoms three months after recovery, [you] can try and make an appointment with a long COVID clinic," he says. But Adalja says this isn't something most parents will need to worry about. "Parents should be reassured that long COVID, while a societal problem, [is] not a very major pediatric problem," he says. Police arrested a Washington man for allegedly torturing and attempting to kill his dog in the desert. According to 3 News Las Vegas, Wayne Johnson took his dog, Kea, out to the Nevada desert and tried to kill her. Injured dog discovered in Nevada desert On March 18, someone called the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department to report an injured dog that appeared to have been the victim of an attack by another dog. Authorities transferred the pup to the Animal Foundation. There, staff discovered that the dog had multiple stab wounds on her head. Her throat had also been cut open twice on the right side. A veterinarian stabilized the dog, but she required a feeding tube and surgery. Though the pup lived for several days, staff decided to euthanize her because of the dire situation. While at the veterinary clinic, staff found a microchip on the dog. It identified her as Kea and the registration indicated she lived with Johnson. Police called him, and he confessed to trying to kill Kea. The dog was old, sick with cancer, and had blood in her urine, he said. (The Animal Foundation later refuted that story, saying their tests did not indicate Kea had any such illness or urinary issues.) Johnson took Kea on a trail hike near Nevada Telephone Cove Road. He often used to walk with the dog there; they had good memories together. So he ended the dogs life in that cherished place by hitting her with a hammer, then slitting her throat. Suspect shows no remorse for torturing dog Johnson was apparently very chatty with detectives. He told them that during his upbringing on a farm, he learned to put animals down. Normally, he used a gun for this purpose. However, on the day he attempted to kill Kea, he was traveling and couldnt use a gun. He decided on a hammer instead. He thought he finished the job and left the dog to be eaten by wild animals (because it was the circle of life, he told police). Notably, when Johnson told police all this, he didnt think he did anything wrong. Officers told Johnson of the dogs condition, which was stable at the time. The man responded that it was too bad that they were wasting all that money on a dying dog, according to 3 News Las Vegas. Police arrested Johnson on Sept. 14. He now faces one count of malicious torture to kill an animal. The post Man Arrested for Allegedly Torturing and Trying to Kill Dog in Desert appeared first on DogTime. Naomi Campbell has reflected on the racism she faced early on in her modelling career. The supermodel, 53, spoke about some of her experiences in the fashion industry in the upcoming Apple TV+ documentary, The Super Models, which also features modelling legends Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista , and Christy Turlington . During one episode of the show, which will premiere on 20 September, Campbell reflected on growing up in the UK, beforing moving to the US when she was still a child. According to US Weekly, she said that although she experienced racism as a child, such as when she was five years old and someone called her a racist word, she didnt let it affect the way she viewed herself. I wasnt going to accept being bullied at school for the colour of my skin, she said. My mother was paying my school fees just like everybody else. I had every right to be there, so take your bullying somewhere else, is how I felt. Campbell also added that when she moved to New York to pursue modelling, her mother had a few reservations about it. At the time, modelling was kind of looked down on in my family. My mother had no idea I was doing any of it, she said, before noting that she still followed through with her career. She further detailed that, once she got involved in the fashion industry, her mother warned her about the racism that exists in America, as well as the prejudices towards people of colour in the southern parts of the country. With those aspects about racism in mind, Campbell became aware of how hard shed have to work in order to feel comfortable in her career. I started to understand culturally that I was going to have to work really hard to feel accepted, she said. There was no way I could go back home with my tail between my legs I was going to go harder and further. Per US Weekly, the Apple TV+ show continued with Campbell recalling some of the stereotypes about people of colour that she witnessed as she adjusted to living in New York City during the 80s and 90s. She shared a specific experience when she and Turlington were getting into a taxi cab, and the driver appeared to assume that she lived in Brooklyn because she was a Black woman. I would put my hands out many times on New York City streets, and the taxis would fly by, Campbell recalled. Then Christy would put out the hand and they would stop. The guy would be like: I dont want to go to Brooklyn, and Im like: Im not going to Brooklyn. I was just like, why is he saying that? It didnt strike me until, you know, Christy would have to stand out in front of me, get me a taxi to get it to work. Campbell then shared how her friendship with Turlington grew over time, noting that they lived together throughout the early days of her career. Additionally, Evangelista also expressed how she tried to advocate for Campbell when the British model was discriminated against because of her race. Naomi wasnt always booked to do the shows, Evangelista said. I didnt understand. Naomi, I thought, was more beautiful, had a much more rocking body than I did and a better strut. [I was] like: Why arent they booking her? I said to them: If you dont book her, you dont get me. This isnt the first time that Campbell has opened up about the racism she faced at the start of career. In a personal essay for CNN Style, published in 2021, she praised Evangelista and Turlington for being really supportive, as she wasnt being booked for certain shows because of the colour of [her] skin. For whatever reason, those designers simply didnt use Black girls; I didnt let it rattle me. From attending auditions and performing at an early age, I understood what it meant to be Black, she wrote. You had to put in the extra effort. You had to be twice as good. She emphasised that she was lucky to have Linda and Christy stand up for her, describing how they told designers that if they wanted to have them in their show, they had to book Campbell as well. That kind of support was unheard of. I will be forever touched. When I got to walk in those shows, I felt a huge sense of victory, but also gratitude, she added. Campbell also acknowledged what shes learned from both her success and the racial prejudices shed faced throughout her career. I have had my challenges as a Black model, but in many ways I feel like one of the lucky few. If my career has taught me anything, its that you can always turn prejudice around, that you should never give up, she wrote. Racism is just ignorance. This image released by Milk Street shows a recipe for risotto with sausage and sun-dried tomatoes. (Milk Street via AP) It turns out weve all been cooking risotto the wrong way. On a trip to Milan, we learned that risotto does not require the constant vigilance and uninterrupted stirring we thought it did. No slow simmer. No gently ladling in broth over and over again. At Trattoria Masuelli San Marco, the creamy, loose risotto was made lightning-fast with a rollicking, dump-and-go style a method we were happy to adapt for weeknights. In this recipe from our book Cook What You Have, which draws on pantry staples to assemble easy, delicious meals, we add half the liquid early and depend only on brisk intermittent stirring. Thats enough to agitate the Arborio rice and release its starch, thickening the cooking liquid and producing the creamy consistency thats the hallmark of great risotto. This version is rich with Italian sausage, which usually comes loaded with additional spices like fennel seed and black pepper. Use sweet or hot, depending on your preference, and remove it from the casing before adding it to the pan, which aids in breaking it into smaller bits. Sun-dried tomatoes are added at the end for a splash of color and tangy sweetness, while Parmesan cheese lends umami and subtle nutty flavor. Risotto with Sausage and Sun-Dried Tomatoes https://www.177milkstreet.com/recipes/risotto-sausage-sun-dried-tomatoes Start to finish: 40 minutes Servings: 4 1 quart low-sodium chicken broth 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided 8 ounces sweet OR hot Italian sausage, casing removed 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped Kosher salt and ground black pepper 1 cup Arborio rice cup drained oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley OR basil 1 ounce Parmesan cheese, finely grated ( cup), plus more to serve In a medium saucepan over medium, bring the broth and 2 cups water, covered, to a simmer. Reduce to low to keep warm. In a large saucepan over medium, heat 1 tablespoon oil until shimmering. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until no longer pink and starting to brown, 5 to 6 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the sausage to a small bowl; set aside. To the same large saucepan over medium, add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil and heat until shimmering. Add the onion and teaspoon salt; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the rice and cook, stirring constantly, until the grains are translucent at the edges, 1 to 2 minutes. Add 3 cups of the hot broth mixture and bring to a boil over medium-high. Reduce to medium and cook, stirring often and briskly, until most of the liquid is absorbed, 10 to 12 minutes; adjust the heat as needed to maintain a vigorous simmer. Cook, adding cup of the broth at a time, until the rice is al dente and loose but not soupy, another 8 to 10 minutes. You may not need all of the broth. Stir in the sausage and accumulated juices along with the sun-dried tomatoes; cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 1 minute. Off heat, stir in the parsley and Parmesan, then taste and season with salt and pepper. Serve sprinkled with additional Parmesan. EDITORS NOTE: For more recipes, go to Christopher Kimballs Milk Street at 177milkstreet.com/ap Robots during the production of the Tesla Model Y in the Tesla Gigafactory in Grunheide, Germany, October 2021. Patrick Pleul/picture alliance via Getty Images Workers at GM, Ford, and Stellantis went on strike last week. The work stoppage will exacerbate a structural advantage enjoyed by EV leader Tesla. EVs have fewer parts than gas-powered vehicles. This means fewer jobs in the industry. When auto workers went on strike at GM, Ford, and Stellantis last week I immediately thought of this video. This embedded content is not available in your region. It's from a 2019 Bloomberg story about Germany's car industry. But the technological changes shown here, and inexorable math at the heart of them, apply globally: The traditional internal combustion engine has more than 1,000 parts. New electric engines have about 50. That means fewer jobs because EVs are much simpler and therefore easier to assemble. With all the ink spilled about the rise of electric vehicles since 2019, I've been surprised by how few words have focused on what will be a radical and painful industry transformation. The auto industry has been a powerful job generator for decades, forging huge cities with healthy and relatively stable paychecks for millions of workers and their families. As EVs take over, this will no longer be the case. Forget about AI. This is the job destruction that's guaranteed to happen soon. 'Fewer employees' The Congressional Research Service, which provides analysis to US legislators, warned about this a few years ago. Gas-powered vehicles have as many as 2,000 components in their powertrains, while Tesla has said its drivetrain has 17 moving parts, including just 2 in the motor, it noted. "Electric vehicle powertrains, if built domestically and not imported, would generate production employment, but fewer employees may be needed than at present because vehicle battery packs have relatively few components and are less complicated to assemble than internal combustion engine powertrains," the Congressional Research Service wrote. "Electric vehicles utilize a large number of electronic sensors, but these devices require little labor to produce and assemble." Labor is one of the main expenses that companies try to flex when competing against each other. If one business has an approach that gives it a clear cost advantage, everyone else will quickly try to adopt a similar strategy. Tesla had a decade headstart, in terms of EV manufacturing, but other automakers are now racing to catch up. There may be some environmental benefits to EVs, but a bigger driver of this is that they are just way more efficient to manufacture. About 40% less labor Auto executives don't like talking about this much, because it basically means jobs will be lost and that's hard to bring up. But some of the industry's top leaders have discussed it occasionally. In late 2022, Ford CEO Jim Farley told the Financial Times that manufacturing EVs requires about 40% less labor than making the same number of internal combustion vehicles. VW's CEO in 2019 estimated that building EVs involves about 30% less effort than making gas-powered cars. Employees work on an engine production line at a Ford factory on January 13, 2015 in Dagenham, England. Carl Court/Getty Images The UAW strike could cost America's 3 main traditional automakers as much as $5 billion within just 10 days. This will exacerbate the structural disadvantage they already face. Elon Musk has already won Whatever the outcome of the strike, Elon Musk has already won, Tim Higgins, one of the top auto industry reporters, wrote this weekend in The Wall Street Journal. Higgins wrote a book about Tesla, called Power Play, that expertly explains how the company developed a more efficient vehicle manufacturing process. As a pure EV maker, Tesla doesn't have to deal with internal combustion engines, gas lines, exhaust pipes and other complex designs that cost more to assemble. GM, Ford, and Stellantis have begun making more EVs, but those operations are still relatively small and that lack of scale means they mostly lose money selling those new vehicles. The rest of their operations still focus on gas-powered cars and trucks. Tesla's workers are not unionized, so the company will keep churning out Model 3s, Model Ss, Model Ys, and soon the new Cybertruck, while some factories of its main US rivals sit idle. Tesla Giga Shanghai Tesla The Giga Press And Tesla is not resting on its laurels. Instead, the company is trying to extend its manufacturing advantage. It recently introduced Gigacasting technology to its auto plants. The Tesla Giga Press is a giant machine that uses aluminum die casting to make much larger vehicle parts. Again, the goal here is to reduce the number of car parts to make the manufacturing process simpler and more efficient. And yes, that probably means even fewer jobs. Toyota, GM, Hyundai and China's Geely are beginning to use this technology, too, or are planning to do so, according to Reuters. Read the original article on Business Insider Members of UNESCO declined to add the lagoon city to the list and instead praised Venices conservation efforts. Peter Zelei Images/Getty Images UNESCO has once again spared Venice from its list of world heritage sites in danger, declining to add the famous Italian city after initially drawing the ire of the group due to the effects of climate change and over-tourism. Members of UNESCO ignored recommendations at a meeting in Saudi Arabia last week to add the lagoon city to the infamous list and instead praised Venices conservation efforts, The Associated Press reported. They especially touted the citys long-awaited plans to charge an entrance fee for day trippers next year. Great victory at UNESCO!!... Venice is not at risk, Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. The world has understood all the work we have done to defend our city, some of the opposition in Venice still hasn't! Brugnaro called the earlier report recommending the city be considered endangered misleading. Venice has been on UNESCOs radar for years and was spared the same fate in 2021. Following that, Italy declared the waterways around the city a "national monument" and banned large cruise ships from passing through its canals. The city also made plans to introduce its day trip tax, but continually postponed its implementation before finally settling on 2024. When it goes into effect, all travelers over 14 years old who visit Venice for the day will be required to pay 5 ($5.33). The fee will be rolled out on a trial basis mainly during spring bank holidays and summer weekends when the city is at its most crowded. Venice already charges overnight visitors who book a hotel stay a different tax. While Venice avoided being added to the list of heritage sites in danger, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee did add sites in the Ukrainian cities of Kyiv and Lviv. The two sites Kyiv's Saint Sophia Cathedral and the historic centre of Lviv join the Ukrainian city of Odessa, which was inscribed on the List of World Heritage in Danger earlier this year. For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on Travel & Leisure. It's general knowledge that the human body is made of approximately 60% plastic. Did we say plastic? We meant water. Our mistake ... or was it? After all, the realities of 21st-century life mean a smidgeon of plastic can be found virtually everywhere, including in fast food and inside our bodies. Not that the potential presence of microscopic pieces of plastic (aka microplastics) floating around our bloodstreams has curbed our societal dependence on plastic materials -- as the many purveyors of plastic bottled water brands in the U.S. can attest. Now, the massive, wide-scale consumption of water sold in plastic bottles (as in single-use, not reusable water bottles) isn't relegated solely to U.S. consumers, of course. But the undeniable popularity of plastic water bottles -- a commodity that's simultaneously wasteful and environmentally destructive -- is so typically American that it borders on parody. Interestingly enough, the rationale behind our national obsession with plastic water bottles isn't nearly as simple as you might imagine. In fact, after conducting a deep dive into the possible reasons for its strong sales presence, we found a surprisingly multifaceted explanation. To discover the answers to this patriotic preference, keep reading as we break down why the U.S. loves buying so many plastic water bottles. Read more: Things You Should Never Put Down Your Drain Aggressive Marketing Campaigns By Beverage Companies Created A Loyal Customer Base Dasani ad on Coca-Cola truck - Sundry Photography/Getty Images Human beings are incredibly susceptible to persuasion ... permitted there's at least a kernel of credibility in what's being sold. For proof, look no further than the endless selection of inane and essentially useless kitchen appliances in existence. Along those lines, since 92% of U.S. residents have access to safe and reliable tap water (per United States Environmental Protection Agency), companies have had to convince us that plastic water bottles are worth purchasing -- a task that's been accomplished, in part, through a number of aggressive marketing campaigns. Given so much of the country has no real need to purchase plastic water bottles, companies behind brands like Dasani have relied heavily on advertisements to change the innate perception of plastic water bottles as being unnecessary. And thanks to the magic of clever marketing strategies and relentless advertising, that message has made it through the noise. Of course, the additional fact that no brands of tap water exist has tremendously helped the rise to prominence of plastic water bottles. "Utilities don't have marketing budgets," after all, as the author of "Bottlemania" Elizabeth Royte pointed out to NPR in 2008. With no retort from its supposed tap water rival, the commercial promotion of plastic water bottles has gone largely unimpeded -- leading to a loyal customer base in the U.S. Bottled Water May Provide Essential Minerals Not Found In Tap Water water bottles at bottling plant - Cofotoisme/Getty Images The jurisdictional addition of fluoride into public water systems throughout the U.S. (a controversial practice we'll address momentarily) indicates tap water isn't wholly devoid of beneficial ingredients beyond its basic elements. But compared to the number of essential minerals found in, ahem, mineral water, tap water is often lacking. For that very reason, a number of individuals in the U.S. prefer the nutritional boost provided by mineral water and consequently, choose to drink it from plastic bottles over tap. Now, unlike some other explanations for plastic water bottles' widespread popularity, we can respect those who choose to buy and drink mineral water in lieu of utilizing the sink. After all, mineral water sold in plastic bottles generally contains a higher level of detectable, health-sustaining minerals (including magnesium and calcium) than what you'd typically find from a faucet-poured alternative, based on a 2001 study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine. In other words, since many of the nutrients found in mineral water are essential to the human body, it's understandable why a substantial portion of American hydration seekers prefer buying these types of plastic water bottles. A Number Of Americans Are Unfazed By The Environmental Damage Of Plastic Water Bottles plastic bottles littering ground - Larina Marina/Shutterstock We'd guess the majority of U.S. water drinkers aren't entirely sure where the titular liquid inside their plastic water bottles originates. Similarly, we expect that most people have little to no idea where their plastic water bottle ends up after they've finished drinking it. Unfortunately, a number of Americans don't care about a plastic water bottle's journey after it's discarded; and that lack of environmental concern helps paint the picture explaining our nation's love of plastic water bottles. Now, this plastic vessel isn't the only culprit of the catastrophic environmental damage caused by man-made, mass-produced plastic products, of course. Yet even if it was, it's hard to envision many Americans would suddenly decide to curb their personal preference just to help the planet. Until all Americans are willing to pay a bit more out of pocket (across the board) for everyday items to cut down on plastic usage, the popularity of plastic water bottles isn't apt to decrease. Some Consumers May Find Bottled Water Tastes Better Than Tap woman perusing bottled water section - 8th.creator/Shutterstock Water is water, right? Of course it is. In fact, unless we're talking about flavored water, the bottom line is water tastes like water tastes like water. Yet somehow, a handful of individuals disagree with that fairly straightforward assessment of water's flavor profile. In fact, while we're quick to declare the difference between tap water and bottled water is essentially negligible, others seem to believe plastic water bottles offer a superior beverage than what comes from their kitchen faucet. Is there any real logic to explain why 43% of respondents declared bottled water tastes better than tap in a 2021 survey? Not that we're aware of. Of course, we're not suggesting those individuals aren't entitled to their opinion. But with no underlying basis we can comprehend that would elevate one type of plain water over another, it still seems like the sort of stance meant to convey a sophisticated palate rather than an accurate reflection of one's belief. Despite our inability to grasp the rationale for this plastic water bottle preference, there's no denying it offers one of several explanations for why the U.S. loves buying the product. Many US Residents In Rural Areas Don't Have Consistent Access To Safe Tap Water sign warning don't drink water - Akchamczuk/Getty Images For a number of U.S. residents, the concept of having access to safe drinking water is just a basic fact of life. But the reality in such a large and diverse nation means there are no universal truths or experiences. With that in mind, folks who've lived a life free from unsafe or dangerous tap water may not realize some Americans in rural areas occasionally endure those very problems -- or that a genuine lack of safe-to-drink tap water is the reason why certain plastic water bottle consumers choose it. To be clear, it's utterly unconscionable to think a nation as wealthy and capable as ours could allow any citizen (or non-citizen) to live their life sans contaminate-free running water. Unfortunately, the neglect of water infrastructure in areas throughout the country has left certain individuals living in towns and cities with no other option beyond plastic water bottles. It's not hard to think if we simply prioritized investing money to improve and maintain public water systems in every corner of the U.S., a decent number of people would stop buying plastic water bottles. As it stands, the lack of proper water infrastructure maintenance in some rural pockets compels those unlucky enough to live there to buy plastic water bottles. A Debate Over The Safety Of Added Fluoride In Tap Water Has Existed For Decades General Ripper smoking cigar in 'Dr. Strangelove' - Columbia Pictures The prominence of conspiracies in the modern world might seem like an unfortunate byproduct of the internet and social media. However, culturally pervasive conspiracy theories have always been woven into the fabric of human existence -- like the notion that then-Communist Russia was tainting the "precious bodily fluids" of U.S. denizens by adding fluoride to tap water. In fact, long-running (though generally unfounded) suspicions surrounding the safety of fluoride have caused some people in the U.S. to bypass that option altogether by buying plastic water bottles. Quite frankly, we didn't realize a backlash against added fluoride in tap water -- somewhat akin to the stance taken by the deranged General Jack D. Ripper (Sterling Hayden) in "Dr. Strangelove: Or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb" -- was an actual occurrence among the population. But the debate regarding fluoride's efficacy as a public drinking water additive stretches back further than the release of Stanley Kubrick's seminal satire. Since some consumers remain staunchly convinced fluoride is more harmful than helpful -- even in the 21st century -- it's more likely than not that segment of the U.S. population will continue buying plastic water bottles with impunity. Some May Falsely Believe The Cost Of Running Water Is Pricier Than Bottled Alternatives cash washing down the drain - Bill Oxford/Getty Images The human race is inherently gullible, which leads us to one possible (if implausible) reason why the U.S. loves buying so many plastic water bottles: Some people may believe paying for running water is more expensive than purchasing plastic water bottles. It's sort of unfathomable to think any reasonable person could genuinely believe it's financially prudent to pay for plastic water bottles ad nauseam rather than simply pay a utility bill (even if they're struggling to afford their water bill). Yet we've also spent a lifetime observing folks caught hook, line, and sinker -- or willing to trust in something when all available evidence suggests they shouldn't. It simply wouldn't be shocking, then, to learn some people choose plastic water bottles because they think they're besting the Water Works by doing so. We just can't elaborate on what could possibly trigger such a train of thought in the first place. Consumers May Think Bottled Water Is Safer For Individuals With Weakened Immune Systems elderly woman with mask waving - Jeremy Poland/Getty Images With so many individuals wary about potentially toxic components being found in their tap water, the impulse to consider the presumably safer alternative of filtered water purchased in plastic bottles is understandable. Of course, while the supposedly inherent risks of parasitic organisms in tap water are undeniably overblown, for folks living with a compromised or weakened immune system, the choice to buy plastic water bottles may be driven by a search for perfectly safe (and 100% untainted) drinking water. Of course, federal and state laws regulating (and ensuring) the safety of tap water exist, but that doesn't mean individuals living with medical conditions can afford to throw caution to the wind with any drink or food they ingest. With that in mind, the FDA-mandated standards for plastic water bottle production may offer at-risk folks a sense of ease they don't get with tap water -- leading to one explanation (among many, of course) for the country's obsession with buying plastic water bottles. Certain Bottled Water Brands Are Seen As A Status Symbol Of Sorts To Consumers Fiji water on red carpet - Eugene Gologursky/Getty Images Perception is all that matters in the modern world -- at least that's what we want you to think we believe (see what we did there?). Now, the mere act of publicly purchasing plastic water bottles instead of ingesting tap water isn't necessarily hoity-toity on its own. Then again, some U.S. residents may only be willing to pony up a pretty penny for a plastic water bottle if it's from a certain brand (like Fiji). In other words, some people love buying plastic water bottles because they project a certain (and preferred) image. Why someone would choose to flaunt their personal success by spending an exorbitant amount of money on a so-called luxury bottled water brand is beyond us. We realize status symbols exist in every aspect of life. But we're still talking about water here, folks. It's literally a flavorless, bland key-to-life beverage -- so perhaps it makes perfect sense that a significant portion of the U.S. is willing to pay a premium for a purportedly top-shelf plastic water bottle. Maybe status-defining plastic water bottle brands are simply a natural product of capitalism in the U.S., which drives people to make as much money as possible and then show off their earnings. If that's the case, it would make sense for countless Americans to purchase plastic water bottles (provided they're from the right brand). The Mid-2010s Water Crisis In Flint, Michigan, Likely Stoked Further Distrust Of Tap Water Flint water plant tower - Linda Parton/Shutterstock The notion of tap water being anything but safe to consume is the stuff of nightmares for most Americans. However, the prospect of dealing with genuinely unsafe local drinking water was a waking reality for residents of Flint, Michigan, starting in 2014. Unsurprisingly, the terrifying and maddening years-long water crisis forced many Flint residents into drinking water from plastic bottles -- but only because they had no other choice. The inability of federal, state, and local authorities to actually fix the issue at hand in a timely manner -- and provide the basic necessity of safe drinking water to the people of Flint before 2019 -- undoubtedly forced the city's population to embrace plastic water bottles. Yet we can't help but conclude some people elsewhere saw the mess in Michigan and decided they too would avoid tap water from that point forward. Even if we don't have any specific evidence to verify our hunch regarding a possible uptick of plastic water bottle purchases outside Flint, we're confident in our inference. And with no evidence to the contrary either, we feel it's fair to include this as a key reason why the U.S. loves buying plastic water bottles. Lingering Worries Over Forever Chemicals In Tap Water Continues To Drive Bottled Water Sales illustration of PFAs with tap - Francesco Scatena/Getty Images We noted that the staggering prevalence of plastic in modern commercial products means there's plastic floating inside our bodies at any given time. Additionally, the lingering danger of chemicals casually used (and discarded) throughout the world is hardly unknown to many U.S. residents. As such, the widely reported presence of so-called forever chemicals in tap water may explain why some people in the U.S. are so fond of plastic water bottles. A 2023 U.S. Geological Survey study revealed forever chemicals, known as polyfluorinated alkyl substances (or PFAS), were detected in an eyebrow-raising 45% of the nation's tap water. This disconcerting statistic makes it clear that certain individuals hesitant to drink running water aren't acting out of illogical impulses (at least not always). With so much uncertainty regarding the potential negative impact of PFAS on the human body, we can't entirely blame anyone resistant to tap water consumption. We just wish a less detrimental overall option was available in the U.S. beyond buying plastic water bottles. Read the original article on Mashed. There is just one requirement for a stock to gain entrance into the Dividend Kings: a company must increase its dividend for at least 50 consecutive years. Seems simple, but only 50 companies have met the minimum threshold to become a Dividend King. This makes these companies the best of the best when it comes to dividend durability. These companies have enduring business models and provide products or services that customers need, even in recessionary periods. This discussion will examine two of the newest additions to the Dividend Kings that can be counted on for income over the long-term. Archer-Daniels-Midland The first name up for discussion is Archer-Daniels-Midland Co. (NYSE:ADM). Founded in 1902, the company, which is also called ADM, has transformed over time to become an agricultural giant. The companys business segments provide processed cereal grains, oilseeds and storage and transportation. The company has a market capitalization of $43 billion and has generated almost $100 billion over the last year. Archer-Daniels-Midlands primary competitive advantage is it is the largest publicly traded farmland company in the country, giving it a size and scale that competitors have not been able to replicate. In addition, the need for food to meet growing populations remains very high, which has typically helped the company perform well during recessionary periods. The GF Score of 88 out of 100 suggests modest returns at the current price. The company scores well in the area profitability and growth and has average rankings for momentum, financial strength and value. 2 Dividend Kings Providing Safe and Secure Income While many companies struggled during the 2007 to 2009 period, Archer-Daniels-Midlands earnings per share improved almost 29%. While the company did see declines in the middle of the last decade, earnings compounded at a rate of more than 14% for this period. Story continues This high rate of growth has enabled the company to raise its dividend for 50 consecutive years, making it one of the newest members of the Dividend King Index. Dividend growth has been solid since 2013, with distributions growing at an annual rate of 8.6%. Archer-Daniels-Midland yields 2.3% currently, which is ahead of the S&P 500 Indexs average yield of 1.5%. A dividend growth streak means little if the dividend is not safe. This should be an issue for Archer-Daniels-Midland as its projected payout ratio for this year is just 25%. This compares favorably to the average payout ratio of 39% since 2013. This likely means the company can continue to raise its dividend for years to come. The stocks GF Value Line suggests the stock is trading at a discount to its intrinsic value, based on the companys historical ratios, past financial performance and analysts projections for future earnings growth. Archer-Daniels-Midland has a price-to-GF-Value ratio of 0.91, implying a possible return of 9.9% return from current levels. Inclusive of the dividend yield, total returns could be in the double digits. 2 Dividend Kings Providing Safe and Secure Income S&P Global Next up is S&P Global Inc. (NYSE:SPGI), which provides financial services and business information to customers around the world. The company was originally named McGraw Hill Financial, where is first introduced the S&P 500 Index. The companys services include providing credit ratings, analytics and other data to market participants and capital markets. S&P Global is valued at $123 billion and generates annual revenue of approximately $12 billion. S&P Global has a diversified business model. Roughly two-thirds of revenue comes from the Americas, with Europe, the Middle East and Africa contributing 25% and Asia Pacific-China adding the remainder. Investment banking and management are the two largest contributors to sales, making up half of the annual total combined. The company operates in an environment with few large players as the top three names in the financial debt ratings industry control more than 90% of the market. The company receives has a solid GF Score of 94 from GuruFocus. This score implies high returns moving forward and is powered by high marks for profitability, momentum, growth and value. These scores are partially offset by a middle of the road result for financial strength. 2 Dividend Kings Providing Safe and Secure Income The company was not immune to the last recession, with earnings per share falling 21% from 2007 to 2009. However, S&P Global did return to growth in 2010, establishing a new high for earnings per share in 2013. Earnings per share have a compound annual growth rate of 14.4% for the last decade. While bottom-line growth was sporadic during this period, S&P Global continued to raise its dividend. In fact, the company has paid an uninterrupted dividend since 1937. The company has also raised its dividend for 50 consecutive years. Shares of S&P Global yield just 0.9%. What the stock lacks in income it makes up for in dividend growth and safety. S&P Globals dividend has a CAGR of nearly 13% over the last decade. The projected payout ratio for 2023 is just 29%, which compares favorably to the long-term average payout ratio of 27%. S&P Globals GF Value Line implies shares are slightly undervalued. With a GF Value of 0.93, investors could see a 10% return from current levels. 2 Dividend Kings Providing Safe and Secure Income Final thoughts Investors looking for sources of safe and secure income are recommended to consider the Dividend Kings. These names have proven over a long period of time to have enduring business models that propel dividend growth. Archer-Daniels-Midland and S&P Global are two of the newest members of the Dividend Kings. Both companies have strong business models and extensive track records for dividend growth, making each a good addition to an income orientated investors watchlist. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. If we learned nothing else during the coronavirus pandemic, it's that sick employees need to stay home and out of the office. That valuable lesson was often ignored prior to pandemic guidelines by both employers and employees. In the wake of lockdowns, most workplaces changed their policies, drastically, for all the right reasons. But that insight seems to have been lost on at least one employer. An employee sought advice on how to approach their employer's strict sick policy. In a post uploaded to the r/jobs subreddit, the employee explained that their job reportedly demanded that sick employees without shift coverage must show up for work regardless of the possibility of spreading their illness to their coworkers. If that alone is not shocking enough, the worker reported that they happen to work in a medical facility. The only exception, according to the post, was if the ailing employee was febrile, meaning feverish with related symptoms like fatigue, lethargy, or seizures. As the CDC notes, however, not all contagious illnesses, like the flu, present with a fever. RELATED: Worker Quits During First Week After Boss Tells Him It's His 'Responsibility To Find Replacement' When Calling Out Sick Frustrated and at a standstill in the conversation and no longer feeling it would be productive, the employee texted his boss, saying, "I understand you have policies for a reason and have to uphold them. That being said I do not see there being any positive outcome to this conversation, so I am removing myself." Without going into detail, they asserted that their boss was toxic and that further communication could be detrimental to their mental health but the boss wasnt done with the conversation and decided to up the ante. The employee added that with what they perceived as veiled empathy, management responded that a cease in discussions would be considered a resignation from their position. The worker denied resigning but rejected any further discussion on the matter. RELATED: Woman Says Boss Showed Up At Her Home To 'Prove' That She Wasn't Sick Now She Wants To Take Legal Action whatsapp message between sick employee and management Photo: Reddit Turning to Reddit, they wanted to know what protections they have against wrongful termination under the guise of resignation. Can an employer who doesnt like your communication or lack thereof say you resigned? The short answer, in most cases, is no. The employee simply inquired about a policy that concerned them. There is no obligation to continue to engage the manager, especially while off work. If the worker refuses to follow the policy, they could be subject to discipline up to and including termination of employment. RELATED: People Who Can Find The 'T' In This Brain Puzzle Test Within 10 Seconds Are Gifted There are times when an organization accuses an employee of resigning to get rid of them and avoid paying unemployment, but in this case, it would be a losing cause since its clear that no resignation was tendered. But it's important to keep in mind that the poster only shared part of the conversation. We don't know if there is a history of performance issues or insubordination, or what the context was outside of what was shared. Perhaps something was said previously that led the manager to believe the employee was resigning. To truly get the full picture, the conversation would need to be reviewed from start to finish. With all of that said, under Texas law, it is possible that the worker could resign and call it constructive termination, meaning that the employer made the work environment so untenable that he or she had no choice but to quit their job. Exposing them to illness and threatening their job because they are uncomfortable with a conversation or voiced concerns about a policy (retaliation) could be valid grounds. RELATED: 17-Year-Old Says Boss Called Their Doctor To Find Out When They Could Come Back To Work After They Called Out NyRee Ausler is a writer from Seattle, Washington, and author of seven books. She covers lifestyle and entertainment and news, as well as navigating the workplace and social issues. This article originally appeared on YourTango The University System of Georgia Board of Regents this month honored Dr. Joseph Hobbs for his 45 years of service to the Medical College of Georgia during a gala. Hobbs' service includes 22 years as department chair of Family Medicine, the first African American chair at the school. But Hobbs's connection to MCG went back well before he was accepted there into medical school. He recalled Saturdays while in high school meeting with biochemist William Harms at MCG as Hobbs as he worked on winning science fairs by studying the biological effects of space travel. "He would just pulverize me with information about biochemical interactions," Hobbs said. Dr. Hobbs wife Janice, his daughter Tiffany, son Reginald, Dr. Hobbs (center), daughter Dr. April Hobbs and her husband Dr. Charlton Conner An Augustan from birth, Hobbs was born in the old University Hospital in the segregated wing in 1948. He met Harms through Rosa T. Beard, the chemistry teacher at A.R. Johnson Junior High School who worked with students on the rocket club and the science fair. Supportive parents and great teachers set him on the track for educational success, and he left for Mercer College intending to pursue biochemistry, not medicine. "Anything that is attributed to my achievement is really based upon the advocacy, the support, and nurturing and mentoring of people in the community who, for no personal reasons, just reached out to support us," he said. In college Hobbs spent a summer working in the Harvard University lab of James Watson, who did some of the pioneering research on DNA structure, although the scientist was on book tour at the time. Hobbs was accepted in to a doctorate program at Harvard. "That's where I was going," Hobbs said. "And then something happened. And that was the Vietnam War. ... My draft number was 64." Hobbs realized it was unlikely he could complete a doctorate without being called up for military service. He had also applied to MCG out of respect for the people who had mentored him, including with Claude-Starr Wright, the then-section chief of hematology oncology. As he was trying to decide, the recruiter from MCG came to Mercer and found Hobbs at the pre-med club, handing him his acceptance letter there. "(He) said to me, 'Oh, if I'm not mistaken, you're the first student from Mercer to be admitted to medical school this year,'" Hobbs said. "I mean, any hesitation that I had about looking at medicine just kind of evaporated." Hobbs did his medical education, then his residency at MCG. When he graduated, most of the practice groups were all white; and he did not want to open a solo practice. But as chief resident in his residency program, Hobbs was offered the chance to stay on as a faculty member and do something he had wanted to do from the beginning, teach. "This was in family medicine. Family medicine was a new discipline at that point in time," he said. "And so a lot of the guardrails, a lot of the formality of the discipline had not been established at that point in time. And it was an environment where you could really think outside of the box with regards to the delivery of care." And so Hobbs stayed at MCG. His wife, Janice, was also from Augusta, and they had family ties; but also every time he applied elsewhere a new opportunity opened at the medical college, he said. MCG was also pioneering techniques in medical education, including having regional campuses across the state. While sometimes slow to adapt, Hobbs said, the medical college went all in when it decided to change. "A lot of people actually came to study what we were doing," Hobbs said. "... We were not like an isolated department. We had colleagues across the country with whom we worked." MCG moves forward: 'Great day for Augusta': Augusta University and Wellstar deal signed and finalized Also at AU: Augusta University President Brooks Keel to retire at the end of this academic year Hobbs retired as chair in 2020, but still coordinates opportunities for medical students to learn at federally-funded health centers. His passion for space that he had in high school has continued, including to Lego models of space craft. He is also enjoying following his children's careers. "They're in the middle of the excitement now," he said. At the gala, though, it was Hobbs who was in the middle of the excitement as he received the 2023 Regents Hall of Fame Alumni and Distinguished Friends Award. He appreciated having a number of colleagues from Augusta University there, but was most impressed by two students who spoke. "Those were really the highlights of the night, I thought," he said. This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Dr. Joseph Hobbs honored for 45 years at Medical College of Georgia All nine of the youth offenders who escaped from a juvenile detention center in Pennsylvania after a riot broke out Sunday evening have been taken into custody, state police said Monday morning. All nine of the juveniles have been recaptured, according to the Pennsylvania State Police, and they will all be charged after the escape. Officials said state and local law enforcement took back control of the Abraxas Academy after the riot, but some inmates escaped around 8 p.m., according to the Caernarvon Township Police Department. As of 5:47 a.m. Monday, four of the nine juveniles were taken into custody on Oak Grove Road in Morgantown around 50 miles west of Philadelphia, according to authorities. After the first four were located, police found another four juveniles in a truck, which had been reported stolen, and the last juvenile was taken into custody in an adjacent field after fleeing from the truck. They were found about four miles from Abraxas Academy, according to police. The juveniles escaped after stealing keys from two staff members at the academy, Pennsylvania State Police Trooper David Beohm told the AP. The escape comes after convicted murderer Danelo Cavalcante was captured after a 14-day manhunt in Chester County, Pennsylvania, less than an hour away from the location of this youth facility. Danelo Cavalcante news timeline: Everything that happened from prisoner's escape to capture This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Abraxas Academy escape, riot: Minors recaptured from PA detention center In 2021, UC Merced conducted a survey of faculty and staff residential decisions, asking: Where do you live and why? For those who chose to reside outside Merced, the top reason surpassing all others combined, at 55% was access to medical care. This sentiment isnt unique to university employees. Access to medical services is at the top of the list for many when deciding where to live, work and put down multigenerational roots. This is an issue the Merced County Times and Sun-Star have championed editorially for many years. Access to medical care is also one of the important variables businesses consider when determining where to relocate, and where they will remain. Merced is an up-and-coming city, with 90,000 residents in a county of 286,000. As a trusted health care partner and a champion for advancing medical services in the Central Valley, Dignity Health-Mercy Medical Center is the regions premiere medical provider. But like many rural-area hospitals, it faces the significant challenge of there not being enough physicians to meet the health-care needs of a growing population. Unfortunately, this results in some patients having to travel long distances for services. Like Mercy Medical Center, many local institutions are exploring opportunities and finding solutions to meet those challenges. City Fire is adding ambulances for critical transportation needs to supplement the local private ambulance company. Merced College has for decades been a leader in educating nurses, radiologic technologists, paramedics and other vital health professionals. UC Merced has taken a significant step forward by partnering with UC San Francisco and UCSF-Fresno to develop the BS-to-MD pathway to encourage the training of more Valley physicians. The university will break ground on a state-of-the-art medical education building this year, and the first cohort of Valley medical students will begin classes at UC Merced in Fall 2023. The ultimate goal, of course, is to build out the program into a full-scale medical school in Merced. We know from years of academic research and practical observations that doctors are more likely to establish their practices in the place they were educated and did their residencies. To increase the likelihood of that occurring, the BS-to-MD path accepts only students from the San Joaquin Valley who know the region and its issues, and are committed to seeing their communities thrive. And through partnerships with local health-care facilities like Mercy Medical Center, Merceds next generation of physicians will have an opportunity to pursue an undergraduate or graduate medical degree in the community they call home. Thankfully, our elected leaders also care deeply about their constituents and are doing everything they can at the federal and state levels to address our regions medical challenges. U.S. Rep. Jim Costa, D-Fresno, has refiled his Expanding Medical Education Act to bolster the health care workforce and support medical schools in rural areas of the country, including the Valley a bill supported by the Association of American Medical Colleges. Growing our own doctors is the only way of confronting this shortage, Costa says. State Sen. Anna Caballero and Assemblymember Esmeralda Soria have championed efforts to expand health care. Indeed, their strong public stances and tireless efforts are helping to bring the hospital in neighboring Madera County back from closure. And because of their support, and that of former Assemblymember Adam Gray, our Gov. Gavin Newsom has put his personal endorsement and the full credit of the state of California behind the UC Merced medical education building. Further, among our shared priorities must be the continued development of programs, services and amenities that help to keep vital professionals in our community. These include a robust and rigorous K-12 education system, post-secondary educational options, enhanced retail and restaurants, equity-minded affordable housing, and accentuation of the community pride, which has long been a hallmark of Merced and the San Joaquin Valley. We face both a growing and an aging population here in Merced, as in much of the country, and we must work together continuously, creatively and untiringly to address the current and future needs and challenges faced by those living in our community. We all want our families, friends and neighbors to be healthy and thriving, and having the resources to train and retain new physicians in Merced is a step towards a healthier future for us all. Juan Sanchez Munoz is chancellor of UC Merced. Dales Johns is the CEO of Mercy Medical Center . An Alexandria man accused of rape has been found not capable of standing trial. An Alexandria man accused of rape has been found not capable of standing trial. Israel Jermaine Williams, 40, was ordered sent to the East Feliciana State Hospital on Monday by 9th Judicial District Court Judge Mary Lauve Doggett after receiving a report from doctors. Williams was arrested on 100 counts of first-degree rape in March 2022 by the Rapides Parish Sheriff's Office. The investigation that led to his arrest started after a tip from the Pensacola (Florida) Police Department about the possible sex trafficking of a juvenile. Israel Jermaine Williams case: Alexandria man arrested on 100 counts of 1st-degree rape Alexandria murder cases: 2 Alexandria men take pleas in fatal shooting cases, sentenced to prison He was indicted in August 2022 on one count of first-degree rape. In May, his defense attorney filed a motion to have Williams evaluated, and it was granted. Two doctors appointed to evaluate him split on their decisions, so a third doctor evaluated Williams. That report was received by the court before Doggett made her decision on Monday. With Williams moving to East Feliciana Parish for treatment, all action in his case will put on hold. This article originally appeared on Alexandria Town Talk: Court finds Israel Williams not capable to stand trial in rape case Bernie Sanders on Sunday voiced support for a 4-day workweek, a demand of striking auto workers. On CNN, the Vermont senator blamed long working hours for a decline in US life expectancy. "People in America are stressed out for a dozen different reasons," Sanders said. This country needs to seriously consider cutting back the hours that people have to labor at their job, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders told CNN on Sunday, suggesting the 40-hour workweek is at least partly to blame for Americans' declining life expectancy. A 32-hour, four-day workweek for the same pay is a key demand of the United Auto Workers, whose members went on strike last week after talks with Ford, GM, and Stellantis failed to deliver a new contract. The demand, in part, reflects concerns that the electrification of the auto industry, paired with emerging artificial intelligence technologies, will significantly reduce the amount of human labor required to assemble a new vehicle. Sanders, asked whether he thought the UAW's position was simply a bargaining ploy, said he thinks it's actually worth having a conversation about. "As a nation, we should begin a serious discussion and UAW is doing that about substantially lowering the workweek," Sanders, an independent who caucuses with the Democrats, told CNN's Jake Tapper. "People in America are stressed out for a dozen different reasons, and that's one of the reasons why life expectancy in our country is actually in decline," he said. "People are overwhelmed. They've got to take care of their kids. They've got to worry about healthcare. They've got to worry about housing. They're worried." According to the CDC, life expectancy at birth fell to 76.1 years in 2021, the second year in a row that the number fell, largely due to COVID-19. Other contributing factors included heart disease, chronic liver disease and cirrhosis, and suicide, the CDC said. Studies of a four-day workweek, meanwhile, including a pilot program involving some 2,900 workers in the UK, have suggested employees' time at work could be reduced without hurting companies' revenue and with workers reporting less stress and anxiety. Sanders argued that cutting time at work would also be a just reward for gains in worker productivity, particularly with the advent of AI. "It seems to me that if new technology is going to make us a more productive society, the benefits should go to the workers," he said. "It would be an extraordinary thing to see people have more time to spend with their kids, with their families, to be able to do more cultural activities, to get a better education." It is something, he continued, that "absolutely we need to be discussing." Read the original article on Business Insider Anyone who has traveled internationally can relate to President Joe Bidens lament last weekend while in Vietnam. I tell you what, I don't know about you, but I'm going to go to bed," Biden said. Biden is human and, like all of us, gets tired. Heres the problem, though. He announced his desire for some shut-eye to a room full of reporters, following a rambling news conference. His press secretary had to cut him off mid-sentence, abruptly announcing the event was over. At 80, Bidens age has become one of his top political challenges, and the vast majority of Americans (Democrats included) see it as a huge problem heading into 2024. And its not simply his age its the increasing confusion and the clear decline were all witnessing in real time. Watch a video of him from even a few years ago and the difference is obvious. Its sad. While I disagree with Biden on just about every policy he stands for, I empathize with him as a fellow human being. Trump's big lie: Trump's delusional lies about a 'rigged' election may sink his 2024 chances Yet, Biden seems oblivious to the trials hes facing. He announced earlier this year that hes seeking a second term and isn't fazed by calls for him to step aside. So hes making his age our problem, and Americans need to pay attention. It's not ageist to say the president must be up to the task. Biden meets with leaders in Vietnam Politicians' age is a bipartisan problem Maybe we ought to thank Biden. Our countrys elderly political class is not a new phenomenon, but its one that has not really been addressed head-on, until now. In recent months, there has been a steady drumbeat of attention on the aging members of Congress and how they dont seem in any hurry to leave. Why would they? We keep sending them back. Choose to save democracy: Are Republicans dishonest? Democrats immoral? Why toxic polarization threatens democracy. This isnt only a Democratic issue. Aging is a bipartisan offender. The U.S. Senates top Republican, Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, 81, has had two strange episodes of freezing during news conferences. Its alarming, and it makes one wonder how often this happens when hes not in front of cameras. Yet, McConnell says hes sticking out the rest of his term, which ends in 2026. At the very least, he should be ready to stand down from his leadership position. 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. Thats what former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi did last year, when she announced shed no longer seek to lead the Democrats in her chamber. Shes not ready to leave politics, however. Pelosi, 83, recently announced shed seek reelection in 2024. With a growing number of lawmakers in their 80s and even 90s the floor of Congress is resembling the neighborhood retirement community. US Senate is oldest its ever been: With McConnell, Biden, US politicians are older than ever. Stop voting for them. Romney understands it's time to allow new generations to lead Our Constitution calls for minimum age requirements to serve in Congress and as president, but there is no age limit. The countrys founders probably couldnt have imagined a world in which such old people would still be in the public arena. I dont think there should be a fixed age at which we send our elder statesmen (and women) out to pasture. After all, everyone ages differently. For all of former President Donald Trumps flaws, you cant accuse the 77-year-old of not having enough energy. My message to Utahns on my Senate reelection plan: pic.twitter.com/kgbsfIxMeR Senator Mitt Romney (@SenatorRomney) September 13, 2023 A better approach is for the politicians themselves to show self-awareness. For instance, last week, Utah Republican Sen. Mitt Romney, 76, announced on social media he wouldnt run for reelection next year, even though he seems perfectly healthy now. He acknowledged that if he were to get a second term, hed be in his mid-80s by the end of it. Frankly, its time for a new generation of leaders, Romney said via video, directing criticism to both Biden and Trump. I agree its time for a new generation to take the reins. If our politicians dont know when its time to step aside, then voters have to pay more attention and decide whether their elected representatives are capable of continuing to do their jobs. USA TODAY columnist Ingrid Jacques Ingrid Jacques is a columnist at USA TODAY. Contact her at ijacques@usatoday.com or on X, formerly Twitter: @Ingrid_Jacques You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter. To respond to a column, submit a comment to letters@usatoday.com. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Is Biden too old? Romney retiring shows graceful way to exit politics Is it a boat? Is it a plane? Is it a UFO? Half a mile north of the Banty Saunders drawbridge in Fort Pierce aka the north bridge is moored something that looks more like something created by NASA than by a boatbuilder. It's over 54 feet wide, nearly 69 feet long and is a trimaran, meaning it has three hulls touching the water. And it's clearly damaged. Whatever it is, passersby want to know what it is doing in the middle of the Indian River Lagoon. Where did it come from? Why is it here and for how long? And what happened to it? What's the Ultim'Emotion 2 trimaran? About two weeks ago, the red and silver-hulled Ultim'Emotion 2 racing trimaran arrived on the Treasure Coast after motoring south along the Intracoastal Waterway from Charleston, S.C. In June 2022, Ultim'Emotion 2 was one of two multihulls competing in the Newport to Bermuda Race, a 187-yacht, 600-mile, open-sea sailing race from Rhode Island to Bermuda. The Ultim'Emotion 2 was about 160 miles from Newport and had a 10-mile lead on the eventual race winner and record-setter, Argo. In 20-25 knot winds, Ultim'Emotion 2's 102-foot-tall mast began to separate from its carbon fiber hull. Fortunately, none of the sailboat's racing crew were injured during the catastrophic failure. It took 27 hours for the boat to get back to Newport with a Coast Guard escort, according to a Facebook post. Sunflower Foundation aims to buy trimaran The Ultim'Emotion 2 trimaran under full sail in an undated photo from SuperYacht Times. At the time, the Ultim'Emotion 2 was owned by Antoine Rabaste of France and was being skippered by Jacek Siwek of Belgium. It's unclear what happened next, but Superyacht Times listed the boat for sale for $180,000. The boat had been built by French yacht builder Chantier Multiplast in 2002 for an unknown owner. During the peak of the racing yacht's career, it had been offered for sailing charters for guests for about $32,000 a week. Although its mast was lost at sea during the racing incident, it can still move around thanks to a small inboard engine. Enter Peter Murray of Fort Pierce. Murray is involved with the Treasure Coast-based Sunflower Foundation, a nonprofit whose mission is to educate the public about environmentally responsible alternatives to fossil fuel boat engines. One way Murray does that is by introducing children to sailing adventures. Murray said he hopes to repair the Ultim'Emotion 2 and use it to take kids sailing from organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs. Deadline blown: NOAA missed deadline, delaying new Lake O plan for 2nd time; Army Corps should move on Ramp rage? Boat ramps should be resilient against hurricanes, king tides and sea level rise How an 85-foot-tall bridge is still too low A rendering of the clearance for the new North Causeway Bridge in Fort Pierce by FDOT compared to the existing clearance, Jan. 27, 2021. Murray said the nonprofit is still working out the ownership details. And he's not even sure where it can be repaired because its beam and design make it difficult to move into any Treasure Coast boatyard. Another looming problem is the height of the span bridge currently under construction to replace the 1963 drawbridge. The trimaran and at least two other boats Murray said he knows are coming to the Fort Pierce area have masts that exceed the planned 85-foot vertical clearance from the surface of the lagoon. Murray said he had repeated email communications with Florida Department of Transportation engineers and bridge construction planners, requesting either a taller bridge or a 55- to 65-foot bridge with a draw for boats like Ultim'Emotion 2. He'll obviously have to moor on the south side of the bridge to access the Fort Pierce Inlet. When and where the boat is repaired and its future status will be something for passersby to keep an eye on. Ed Killer is an outdoors columnist for TCPalm. Email him at ed.killer@tcpalm.com. This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Red Ultim'Emotion 2 trimaran racer moored off North Bridge Fort Pierce It was surely the most bizarre crisis of the Biden administration: America's top-of-the-line jet fighters being sent up to shoot down, of all things, a balloon a Chinese spy balloon that was floating across the United States, which had the nation and its politicians in a tizzy. Now, seven months later, Gen. Mark Milley , chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, tells "CBS News Sunday Morning" the balloon wasn't spying. "The intelligence community, their assessment and it's a high-confidence assessment [is] that there was no intelligence collection by that balloon," he said. So, why was it over the United States? There are various theories, with at least one leading theory that it was blown off-track. / Credit: CBS News The balloon had been headed toward Hawaii, but the winds at 60,000 feet apparently took over. "Those winds are very high," Milley said. "The particular motor on that aircraft can't go against those winds at that altitude." The balloon floated over Alaska and Canada, and then down over the lower 48, to Billings, Montana, where photographer Chase Doak, who had studied photojournalism in college, recorded it from his driveway. "I just happened to notice, out of the corner of my eye, a white spot in the sky. I, of course, landed on the most logical explanation, that it was an extra-terrestrial craft!" he laughed. "Took a photo, took a quick video, and then I grabbed a few coworkers just to make sure that I wasn't seeing things, and had them take a look at it." Martin said, "You'll probably never take a more famous picture." "No, I don't think I ever will!" Doak said. In January a Chinese balloon, possibly on an espionage mission, entered U.S. air space and floated across the continent, becoming an object of both media bemusement and diplomatic consternation. / Credit: Chase Doak/Reuters He tipped off the Billings Gazette, which got its own picture, and he told anybody who asked they could use his free of charge. "I didn't want to make anything off it," Doak said. "I thought it was a national security issue, and all of America needed to know about it." As a U-2 spy plane tracked the 200-foot balloon, Secretary of State Antony Blinken called off a crucial trip to China. On February 3 he called China's decision to fly a surveillance balloon over the Continental United States "both unacceptable and irresponsible." A U.S. Air Force U-2 pilot looks down at the suspected Chinese surveillance balloon on February 3, 2023 as it hovers over the central Continental United States. / Credit: Department of Defense via Getty Images President Joe Biden ordered the Air Force to shoot it down as soon as it reached the Atlantic Ocean. Col. Brandon Tellez planned the February 4 operation, which was to shoot the balloon down once it was six miles off the coast. Martin said, "On paper, it looks like this colossal mismatch one of this country's most sophisticated jet fighters against a balloon with a putt-putt motor. Was it a sure thing?" "It's a sure thing, no doubt," Tellez replied. "It would have been an epic fail!" "Yes sir, it would have been! But if you would've seen that, you know, first shot miss, there would've been three or four right behind it that ended the problem," Tellez said. But it only took a single missile, which homed in on the heat of the sun reflected off the balloon. An air-to-air missile made contact and ... Pop! / Credit: CBS News After the Navy raised the wreckage from the bottom of the Atlantic, technical experts discovered the balloon's sensors had never been activated while over the Continental United States. Wreckage from the Chinese balloon being collected from the Atlantic Ocean. / Credit: Department of Defense But by then, the damage to U.S.-China relations had been done. On May 21, President Biden remarked, "This silly balloon that was carrying two freight cars' worth of spying equipment was flying over the United States, and it got shot down, and everything changed in terms of talking to one another." So, Martin asked, "Bottom line, it was a spy balloon, but it wasn't spying?" Milley replied, "I would say it was a spy balloon that we know with high degree of certainty got no intelligence, and didn't transmit any intelligence back to China." For more info: Gen. Mark A. Milley, chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff Story produced by Mary Walsh. Editor: Emanuele Secci. Hunter Biden sues IRS over privacy concerns Hasan Minhaj questioned over embellished stories in standup act Wild finishes highlight NFL's Week 2 Key Insights Institutions' substantial holdings in AerCap Holdings implies that they have significant influence over the company's share price The top 16 shareholders own 51% of the company Using data from analyst forecasts alongside ownership research, one can better assess the future performance of a company Every investor in AerCap Holdings N.V. (NYSE:AER) should be aware of the most powerful shareholder groups. And the group that holds the biggest piece of the pie are institutions with 65% ownership. Put another way, the group faces the maximum upside potential (or downside risk). Because institutional owners have a huge pool of resources and liquidity, their investing decisions tend to carry a great deal of weight, especially with individual investors. Hence, having a considerable amount of institutional money invested in a company is often regarded as a desirable trait. Let's take a closer look to see what the different types of shareholders can tell us about AerCap Holdings. Check out our latest analysis for AerCap Holdings What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About AerCap Holdings? Institutional investors commonly compare their own returns to the returns of a commonly followed index. So they generally do consider buying larger companies that are included in the relevant benchmark index. We can see that AerCap Holdings 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. It is not uncommon to see a big share price drop if two large institutional investors try to sell out of a stock at the same time. So it is worth checking the past earnings trajectory of AerCap Holdings, (below). Of course, keep in mind that there are other factors to consider, too. Institutional investors own over 50% of the company, so together than can probably strongly influence board decisions. AerCap Holdings is not owned by hedge funds. General Electric Company is currently the company's largest shareholder with 13% of shares outstanding. With 8.3% and 3.8% of the shares outstanding respectively, Wellington Management Group LLP and Allspring Global Investments, LLC are the second and third largest shareholders. In addition, we found that Aengus Kelly, the CEO has 2.3% of the shares allocated to their name. Story continues After doing some more digging, we found that the top 16 have the combined ownership of 51% in the company, suggesting that no single shareholder has significant control over the company. While studying institutional ownership for a company can add value to your research, it is also a good practice to research analyst recommendations to get a deeper understand of a stock's expected performance. There are plenty of analysts covering the stock, so it might be worth seeing what they are forecasting, too. Insider Ownership Of AerCap Holdings The definition of company insiders can be subjective and does vary between jurisdictions. Our data reflects individual insiders, capturing board members at the very least. Company management run the business, but the CEO will answer to the board, even if he or she is a member of it. Insider ownership is positive when it signals leadership are thinking like the true owners of the company. However, high insider ownership can also give immense power to a small group within the company. This can be negative in some circumstances. Shareholders would probably be interested to learn that insiders own shares in AerCap Holdings N.V.. Insiders own US$400m worth of shares (at current prices). Most would say this shows a good alignment of interests between shareholders and the board. Still, it might be worth checking if those insiders have been selling. General Public Ownership With a 19% ownership, the general public, mostly comprising of individual investors, have some degree of sway over AerCap Holdings. While this size of ownership may not be enough to sway a policy decision in their favour, they can still make a collective impact on company policies. Public Company Ownership We can see that public companies hold 13% of the AerCap Holdings shares on issue. This may be a strategic interest and the two companies may have related business interests. It could be that they have de-merged. This holding is probably worth investigating further. Next Steps: While it is well worth considering the different groups that own a company, there are other factors that are even more important. Take risks for example - AerCap Holdings has 2 warning signs we think you should be aware of. If you would prefer discover what analysts are predicting in terms of future growth, do not miss this free report on analyst forecasts. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. ASHEVILLE - The family of a man who died while in Buncombe County jail custody has dropped a wrongful death lawsuit brought against the sheriff and others at the downtown detention facility. Jacob Biddix died at Mission Hospital July 29, 2020, after being transported from the Buncombe County Detention Facility July 25, 2020. The lawsuit claimed that Biddix was not taking his seizure medication despite potentially fatal consequences, which should have prompted a hospital transfer. It also noted that Biddix could not properly care for himself or have the mental capacity to seek treatment, prompting his sister, Devon LeeAnn Biddix, to begin the process of becoming his legal guardian. The medical examiner attributed the cause of death to complications from a traumatic brain injury Biddix suffered from a blunt trauma he sustained in 2019. He was 26 years old at the time. The man who assaulted Biddix, Caleb Pitt, was convicted September 2021. According to the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, Pitt is now on parole. The suit cited Buncombe County Sheriff Quentin Miller and numerous jail employees and medical contractors. Devon Biddix is the administrator of her brothers estate, and the plaintiff in the lawsuit, which was filed Aug. 18, 2022. Jacob Biddix Miller and other defendants blamed Biddixs death on his refusal to take medication, according to motions to dismiss the lawsuit filed in March, previously reported by the Citizen Times. They argued that the defendants acted in good faith. Buncombe County Sheriffs Department spokesperson Aaron Sarver did not respond to a Citizen Times request for comment. Biddixs attorney, Walter Daniels, gave notice of voluntary dismissal in a July 19 legal filing. Buncombe County senior attorney Jorge Redmond explained that Biddix can refile the suit within a year of the dismissal according to North Carolina civil law. The dismissal occurred two days before a court-mandated deadline to complete a mediated settlement conference, which was set for July 21, according to an April 25 ruling. A trial date was preliminarily set for Nov. 6, according to the same ruling. The Citizen Times made multiple requests to Daniels and Biddix for comment. The Buncombe County Detention Facility December 2, 2021. Devon viewed a video of her brothers death, which revealed that her brother was in distress for seven minutes before jail staff began chest compressions. It blew my mind when I watched the tape, I saw them wait a good seven minutes before starting chest compressions, she told the Citizen Times Dec. 15, 2021. The lawsuit argued that emergency personnel arrived after "an excessively long delay." Jacob Biddix was originally arrested on charges of property destruction during racial justice and police brutality protests that took place during summer 2020. More: Bodycam footage: 7-minute delay before jail guards begin CPR on Jacob Biddix More: Judge: Release video of Buncombe jail detainee Biddix who died, pending objections More: Jail death lawsuit: Sheriff says detainee contributed to own death, refused medicine Biddixs death was highlighted in a 2022 Citizen Times investigation showing that Buncombe Countys jail was the deadliest in North Carolina from 2008 to 2021 of the 10 largest detention systems in the state. The investigation found that the jails deaths per 1,000 detainees was 58% higher than the second-deadliest jail system in the group during that period. This article was updated to reflect the correct location of Biddix's death, which occurred at Mission Hospital July 29, 2020. It was also clarified to indicate that the 2022 Citizen Times investigation found that the county jail was the deadliest of the ten largest detention systems in the state. Mitchell Black covers Buncombe County and health care for the Citizen Times. Email him at mblack@citizentimes.com or follow him on Twitter @MitchABlack. Please help support local journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times. This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Family of man who died in Buncombe County jail custody drops lawsuit Flu season is coming fast and with it comes the decision to get a flu vaccine. Meanwhile, COVID-19 is still a threat and vaccines are available. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that vaccines prevent around 4 to 5 million deaths per year. Diseases such as polio, tetanus, measles and chicken pox have all been reduced because of vaccines. In fact, smallpox has even been eradicated completely, with no natural cases since 1977. However, a recent study by WalletHub found that some states in the country are better than others about getting vaccinated. And Georgia is a state with one of the lowest vaccination rates, as it is ranked as the fourth least vaccinated state in the U.S. The studys findings The study, called 2023s States that Vaccinate the Most, analyzed all 50 states and the Washington D.C., specifically looking at three key dimensions: children & teenagers immunization rates adult & elderly vaccination Rates immunization uptake disparities & influencing factors Within those three dimensions, the study also studied factors such as flu vaccine rates, share of teens with certain vaccines, vaccinations required by schools and people without health insurance. Each state was then given a score on a 100 point scale in each of the three categories, with 100 being the best vaccinated. Then each score was averaged and ranked. How Georgia scored Georgia received an overall score of 40 out of 100. Heres a breakdown of the three categories: children & teenagers immunization rates: 45 adult & elderly vaccination rates: 46 immunization uptake disparities & influencing factors: 43 The study also revealed that Georgia has one of the highest rates of population without health insurance. It was ranked 49th. In comparison, heres how other Southern states ranked: South Carolina wasnt too far ahead, with a score of 48. Florida is just below South Carolina, with a score of 44. Louisiana received an overall score of 42.93. Alabama got a score of 42.85 out of 100. And in dead last place, with the lowest vaccination rate in the country, is Mississippi with a score of 18. What the experts say about vaccines So, why is it that some states are less vaccinated than others? Experts say it could be any number of things: insurance, education and even the medias opinions. In the U.S., media plays a tremendous role in shaping the culture and behaviors of our society. One way to frame the medias role is in the context of cognitive bias theories such as negativity bias, said Maribeth Kradel-Weitzel, assistant provost at Thomas Jefferson University. Here are some tips from other experts when considering vaccinations: Get educated. According to Thomas Feeley from the University of Buffalo: One of the challenges is education and communicating what a vaccine does (and does not do) and why it only works if we, as a community, or herd, all participate. It is not just for me; it is for my family, friends, and people surrounding me. Talk to your doctor. A strong, unequivocal recommendation from a physician to get vaccinated is one of the strongest predictors of whether an individual gets vaccinated. Physicians who regularly engage with the community outside of the clinic are more likely to have these opportunities to discuss vaccines, said Abram L. Wagner, assistant professor of epidemiology and global public health at the University of Michigan. How do you feel about this studys findings? Comment below or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com Democrats on Sunday sought to play down the ramifications in Washington from last week's indictment of Hunter Biden, President Joe Biden 's son, while Republicans seized on the development. In appearances on the Sunday public affairs show circuit, top Democrats noted the lack of firm evidence to back up Republicans' allegations that the president directly profited off of or influenced his son's business dealings while suggesting that the GOP is trying to distract from more important issues. Hunter Biden was charged by federal prosecutors last week in Delaware for allegedly lying about his drug use when he bought a gun in 2018. Around that same time -- as he later wrote extensively in his memoir -- he was addicted to drugs. He remains under investigation, prosecutors said in court this summer. His attorney argued on "Good Morning America" on Friday that they believe the statute being used is "unconstitutional" in his case and the charges will be dismissed. "Hunter Biden is entitled to the presumption of innocence. The matter is before a court of law right now. And lets see how it proceeds," House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York said on ABC's "This Week." MORE: Personal and political pain collide for Joe and Hunter Biden: ANALYSIS Asked by "This Week" co-anchor Jonathan Karl about whether Jeffries agreed with Hunter Biden's attorneys that the charges wouldn't "have been brought if this was not the presidents son," Jeffries deflected. "I think whats more important is that President Joe Biden continues to lead us forward, to focus on the things that matter, to build an economy that works for everyday Americans thats built from the middle out and the bottom up, and to lean into creating a situation where every single American in every single zip code can truly experience the American dream," he said. Jeffries told Karl that "if anything the indictment indicates that, as President Biden and his administration have consistently said, there is no interaction between the president, the administration and the Department of Justice." Former Democratic National Committee Chairwoman Donna Brazile conceded on "This Week" that "there's frustration" in Democratic circles over the latest indictment but cast the attention around it as fueled largely by Republicans looking to derail the White House. GOP lawmakers have long been probing whether President Biden did anything illegal in connection with his son's business dealings, but no evidence has emerged of wrongdoing. The president's aides have dismissed such suspicion as baseless partisanship. PHOTO: Hunter Biden leaves after a court appearance, July 26, 2023, in Wilmington, Del. (Julio Cortez/AP, FILE) On Tuesday, Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced House Republicans would launch an impeachment inquiry into the president. When asked by reporters on Sunday about his response to the probe, President Biden said "lots of luck." "They're looking to muddy the waters. The bottom line is, Democrats got to stay focused. Hunter Biden is not above the law. Like Donald Trump, he's innocent until proven guilty," Brazile said on "This Week." Polling indicates a large number of voters agree with Republicans' line of attack. A Quinnipiac University survey earlier this month found that half of voters thought President Biden was involved in Hunter Bidens business dealings with China and Ukraine, while 40% thought the president was not involved. Thirty-five percent of voters in that poll believed the president was involved and did something illegal, while 13% believe he was involved and did something unethical but nothing illegal. Republicans, meanwhile, have hammered Hunter Biden's charges while claiming the indictment he faces on the firearm offense lets the president off easy in light of their continued claims of other impropriety. "This is the only charge that doesnt affect Joe Biden," former President Donald Trump, who has pleaded not guilty to his own criminal charges, said on NBC's "Meet the Press." "This was the gun charge. But gun charges are very serious." MORE: How Trump has pushed House Republicans to go after Biden: 'They did it to me' Rep. Elise Stefanik, N.Y., a member of House GOP leadership, touted the recently announced impeachment inquiry into the president. "I believe transparency and good governance is very, very important for any Congress," she said on "Fox News Sunday." "I believe that the Biden family, including then-Vice President Joe Biden, was deeply involved in this nexus." Former Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill., said his old colleagues risk overplaying their hand, however. "The Republicans have spent so much time talking about Hunter Biden this year, and they could have been talking about spending," he said on CNN, referencing the upcoming government funding deadline. ABC News' Lucien Bruggeman, Amanda Maile and Isabella Murray contributed to this report. Democrats seek to separate President Biden from son Hunter's indictment as Republicans pounce originally appeared on abcnews.go.com SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham on Friday narrowed an order that broadly suspended the right to carry firearms in and around Albuquerque to apply only to public parks and playgrounds where children and their families gather. The governors announcement came days after a federal judge blocked part of the order with criticism mounting over the Democratic governors action and legal challenges by gun-rights advocates. Gunfire and violent crime in Albuquerque have continued unabated in the week since Lujan Grisham issued the temporary public health order, she said at a news conference Friday, adding that she will continue to pursue a framework that will pass legal muster to rein in gun violence. Last night, we saw violent crime move through the city that resulted in a gun injury, two car hijackings and a kidnapping with suspects not yet in custody, said Lujan Grisham, appearing in Albuquerque alongside leading Democratic state legislators and her administrations secretary of public safety. We have a very serious situation in our communities that requires serious, immediate results. She said the temporary order is amended to be focused now (on) no open or concealed carry in public parks or playgrounds, where we know weve got high risk of kids and families. Amended restrictions on firearms do not apply to parklands overseen by the State Land Office and the state parks division of the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department, the governors office said. The agencies oversee dozens of recreation areas, from a nature center in Albuquerque to remote mountain and lakeside campgrounds. U.S. District Judge David Urias said Wednesday that the governors original order was likely to cause irreparable harm to people deprived of the right to carry a gun in public for self-defense, granting a temporary restraining order to block the suspension of gun rights until another hearing is held in early October. Further deliberations are scheduled in U.S. District for early October. Lujan Grisham chose not to repeal gun restrictions entirely, noted Hannah Hill, executive director of the National Foundation for Gun Rights, which is challenging the order in federal court. But the governor is still trying to suspend public carry by executive order, and this should not be seen as a good-faith attempt to comply with the courts restraining order, Hill said in an email. At least a half dozen lawsuits are challenging provisions of the governors original order, including a petition to the New Mexico Supreme Court filed Thursday jointly by Republican state legislators, the state Republican Party and the National Rifle Association. Republican state Rep. Randall Pettigrew of Lovington said hes still committed to that legal challenge aimed at defending gun rights, accusing the governor of a deliberate attack on the Constitution. This is them trying to figure out how far they can take a public health order, said Pettigrew, a plaintiff to the challenge in state court. Im not going to stop. I cant, my constituents wont let me and I dont believe we should end litigation. Earlier in the week, scores of demonstrators defiantly wore holstered handguns on their hips or carried rifles during a rally by gun-rights advocates. The second-term governor on Sept. 8 imposed the emergency public health order that suspended the right to openly carry or conceal guns in public places based on a statistical threshold for violent crime in Albuquerque and the surrounding area. She cited recent shootings around the state that left children dead, saying something needed to be done. Republican lawmakers threatened impeachment proceedings and even some influential Democrats and civil rights leaders warned that the move could do more harm than good to overall efforts to ease gun violence. State Attorney General Raul Torrez announced he could not defend the 30-day prohibition against carrying firearms in and around Albuquerque, widening the divide between the states top-ranked elected Democrats. Lujan Grisham said Friday that legal proceedings affirmed her calls for urgent action to stem gun violence. There was no disagreement in that courtroom that gun violence is a problem, she said. The governor was accompanied at Fridays news conference by legislators including House Speaker Javier Martinez of Albuquerque, one of four local lawmakers whose homes were targeted in drive-by style shootings in December 2022 and January of this year. Martinez spoke in general terms about the Legislatures commitment to combating crime and its root causes. The local Catholic archbishop has been among the few joining longtime gun-control advocates in support of the order. New Mexico is an open carry state, so the governors order affects anyone in Bernalillo County who can legally own a gun, with some exceptions. Bernalillo is the states most populous county and home to Albuquerque. This version corrects the description of a judges order that found gun restrictions would likely cause irreparable harm. The judge did not rule the order unconstitutional. This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: New Mexico firearms: Gov. Lujan Grisham alters order Recent studies ranked Oklahoma No. 1 in cases of domestic violence and second behind Alaska for the number of women murdered by men. This week's Grading Oklahoma looks at the state's domestic violence status by the numbers. Read: Grading Oklahoma: Our state's domestic violence, by the numbers This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Grading Oklahoma: A look at domestic violence in Oklahoma James Cleverly has questioned Boris Johnson's comments. James Cleverly has questioned Boris Johnson 's comments. James Cleverly has hit back at Boris Johnson after he accused Rishi Sunak of failing to give enough support to Ukraine. The former prime minister launched an outspoken attack on western governments response to the ongoing Russian invasion in an article in The Spectator last week. Johnson said: I have asked it before, and I ask it again: what the hell are we waiting for? Shown Johnsons comments by Trevor Phillips on his Sky News show this morning, Cleverly said: He cannot be talking about the United Kingdom. Under his tenure, and I always pay tribute to his leadership on this, we supplied those NLAW anti-tank missile systems that were so instrumental in the defence of Kyiv, we supplied training. Under Rishi Sunak as prime minister we were the first in the world to commit main battle tanks, other countries in the world then followed our example. We were the first to commit to the training of fast jet pilots, then other countries followed our example. We were the first to commit to those long-range missiles that have been instrumental in helping the Ukrainians in their battle in the south and south-east of Ukraine. So we have led the world on all these issues. James Cleverly was showed Johnson's comments on Sky News James Cleverly was showed Johnson's comments on Sky News But Phillips replied: Surely [Boris Johnson] should know about the issue of pace? He was the fastest of western leaders to respond. And he now says that the momentum that he set is essentially being run into the ground by you guys. Youve got to take this seriously. Cleverly said: Of course I take his comments seriously, but Ive just given you evidence of the fact that he is wrong on this issue. I speak to the Ukrainians very regularly on this. They remain incredibly grateful, not just for our donations but our leadership on this issue. Related... Agilent Technologies Inc (NYSE:A) has recently been in the spotlight, drawing interest from investors and financial analysts due to its robust financial stance. With shares currently priced at $113.36, Agilent Technologies Inc has witnessed a daily loss of 2.2%, marked against a three-month change of -6.3%. A thorough analysis, underlined by the GuruFocus Score Rating, suggests that Agilent Technologies Inc is well-positioned for substantial growth in the near future. Agilent Technologies Inc (A): A Deep Dive into Financial Metrics and Competitive Strengths 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. Agilent Technologies Inc has been assigned the following ranks: 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 high ranks in profitability and GF value, and slightly lower ranks in financial strength and momentum, GuruFocus assigned Agilent Technologies Inc the GF Score of 92 out of 100, which signals the highest outperformance potential. Agilent Technologies Inc: A Snapshot Originally spun out of Hewlett-Packard in 1999, Agilent Technologies Inc has evolved into a leading life sciences and diagnostics firm. Today, Agilent's measurement technologies serve a broad base of customers with its three operating segments: life science and applied tools, cross lab (consisting of consumables and services related to life science and applied tools), and diagnostics and genomics. Over half of its sales are generated from the biopharmaceutical, chemical, and advanced materials end markets, but it also supports clinical lab, environmental, forensics, food, academic, and government-related organizations. The company is geographically diverse, with operations in the U.S. and China representing the largest country concentrations. Story continues Agilent Technologies Inc (A): A Deep Dive into Financial Metrics and Competitive Strengths Financial Strength Breakdown According to the Financial Strength rating, Agilent Technologies Inc's robust balance sheet exhibits resilience against financial volatility, reflecting prudent management of capital structure. The Interest Coverage ratio for Agilent Technologies Inc stands impressively at 14.72, 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 5.31, Agilent Technologies Inc exhibits a strong defense against financial distress, highlighting its robust financial stability. With a favorable Debt-to-Revenue ratio of 0.4, Agilent Technologies Inc's strategic handling of debt solidifies its financial health. Profitability Rank Breakdown The Profitability Rank shows Agilent Technologies Inc's impressive standing among its peers in generating profit. Agilent Technologies Inc Operating Margin has increased (28.43%) over the past five years, as shown by the following data: 2018: 18.40; 2019: 18.23; 2020: 15.85; 2021: 21.32; 2022: 23.63; . The Piotroski F-Score confirms Agilent Technologies Inc's solid financial situation based on Joseph Piotroski's nine-point scale, which measures a company's profitability, funding and operating efficiency. Growth Rank Breakdown Ranked highly in Growth, Agilent Technologies Inc demonstrates a strong commitment to expanding its business. The company's 3-Year Revenue Growth Rate is 12%, which outperforms better than 54.15% of 205 companies in the Medical Diagnostics & Research industry Moreover, Agilent Technologies 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 17.9, and the rate over the past five years is 13.6. This trend accentuates the company's continued capability to drive growth. Agilent Technologies Inc (A): A Deep Dive into Financial Metrics and Competitive Strengths Conclusion Given the company's strong financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GuruFocus Score Rating highlights Agilent Technologies Inc's unparalleled position for potential outperformance. This makes it a compelling choice for investors seeking robust returns. 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. "You try to read their body language. You watch them and their reactions closely. It's an art. Not a science," Glenn Ivey recalled. "When you're in a jury trial, the last thing on your mind is anything other than the judge and the jury." Even a television camera would be ignored, Ivey argued. Ivey, a first-term Democratic member of Congress from Maryland, spent decades as a state and federal prosecutor before winning a seat in the House. Heis now one of a growing number of House Democrats urging support for a new law or new rules allowing television cameras inside United States federal courts. Ivey insisted the cameras wouldn't impact the tone or outcome of a criminal trial, but would instead give Americans an unbiased, unfiltered view of the justice system. "There's no substitute for people seeing proceedings for themselves and drawing their own conclusion," he said. America has entered an unprecedented and historic moment, in which presidential politics and federal criminal prosecutions have merged. Former President Donald Trump's scheduled trial in the 2020 election conspiracy criminal case brought by special counsel Jack Smith is scheduled to begin in less than six months in Washington, D.C. Jury selection is set to begin one day before the Super Tuesday primaries, in which Trump is currently projected to be the Republican frontrunner. A Homeland Security canine unit sweeps one of the entrances to the E. Barrett Prettyman United States Courthouse in Washington, DC, US, on August 3, 2023. / Credit: Roberto Schmidt / Getty Images Trump's criminal trial in Florida for the alleged mishandling of classified records is scheduled to begin just two months later, as the presidential primary season will conclude. But there will be cameras in at least one of Trump's trials. In Georgia, Fulton County Judge Scott McAfee has ruled that all related hearings and trials in that case will be televised. State law there allows for televised proceedings as long as the cameras do not disrupt the proceedings. Mix in some high stakes Supreme Court arguments and the ongoing electoral impact of the landmark 2022 ruling overturning Roe v. Wade, and some members of Congress sense an opportunity to end the federal government's prohibition on cameras in federal courts and the Supreme Court of the United States. There have been multiple pieces of legislation formally introduced in Congress in recent years to allow cameras into the nearly 100 federal criminal court systems nationwide. Some Democrats are now increasing their advocacy for a bipartisan bill sponsored in March by Republican Sen. Charles Grassley of Iowa and Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota. The bill was introduced before it was known that Trump would be charged in federal criminal court. The senators had championed their proposal at the time by saying, "The judicial branch has a massive impact on our daily lives and the lives of generations to come, yet few Americans ever get the chance to see inside the legal process." Speaking with CBS News, multiple House Democrats are now encouraging support for such proposals, citing the importance of ensuring any Trump trial is shown on television for Americans to watch. They're leveraging Republican claims of "witch hunts" against Trump as part of their arguments. Rep. Jerold Nadler of New York, the top Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee, told CBS News, "I'm sure that Republicans are going to try to stay that this case is somehow a 'put-up' job. That it's a 'railroading'. f the American public can see what goes on, they will be much more confident in our justice system." Ivey said cameras in federal criminal courts would prevent perceptions of bias in the news coverage of the Trump trials. "I think it's the only antidote to the acrimonious theater that you're going to get otherwise," Ivey said, "You don't have many news sources that are viewed as independent anymore, rightly or wrongly." In a separate effort, a coalition of three dozen House Democrats has written a letter to the Judicial Conference, which oversees federal court procedures, seeking a narrower change of policy to allow for televised proceedings of any Trump federal trial. "Given the historic nature of the charges brought forth in these cases, it is hard to imagine a more powerful circumstance for televised proceedings," the letter said. "If the public is to fully accept the outcome, it will be vitally important for it to witness, as directly as possible, how the trials are conducted, the strength of the evidence adduced and the credibility of witnesses." Citing increasing interest in the issue, the Congressional Research Service has published a memo detailing options for Congress to consider. The memo, issued in August and reviewed by CBS News, said the federal prohibition on cameras in federal courts can only be overturned through a decision by the Judicial Conference of the United States, which administers the federal court system, or through Congressional legislation. "Debate regarding whether to expand video broadcasting in the federal courts often weigh an interest in providing public information about proceedings against preserving the integrity of the legal process and due process rights of parties," the memo said. Camera access would require some safeguards in some criminal cases, Members of Congress have acknowledged. In an interview with CBS News earlier this year, Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, a former federal prosecutor, said protections would be needed to avoid putting victims and witnesses at risk. "By giving the judge's discretion, it preserves the ability to shield some witnesses, who might not want their identities young," Blumenthal said. "If they're young or victims of domestic violence." Legislators press for cameras in Supreme Court as arguments begin Some members of Congress are also extending their argument to include camera access to the Supreme Court, where cases might also have a dramatic impact on the American electorate. CBS News has obtained a copy of a "Dear Colleague" letter circulating among US House members this week, seeking support for legislation to require television cameras inside the Supreme Court. The letter, which is being circulated by Democratic Reps. Gerry Connolly of Virginia, Rep. Mike Quigley of Illinois, Rep. Hank Johnson of Georgia and Rep. Adam Schiff of California said, "the lack of transparency creates a perception of secrecy unworthy of the third branch of our government." "It also limits the public and the media to one-dimensional and sometimes distorted views of the Justices' actions because court transcripts cannot provide the public and the media with the verbal intonations, body language, and other cues that can help interpret meaning and provide clarity," the letter continued. Connolly told CBS News that "the Supreme Court is not some mystical, druidic priesthood that periodically deigns to review constitutional issues and hand down their wisdom from on high. The American public has a right to witness consequential and historic proceedings that come before the highest court." A coalition of media organizations, including CBS News, have joined members of Congress in advocating for camera access to the high court. In a new letter to Chief Justice John Roberts, media groups have argued for the court to continue offering audio feeds of the arguments, until camera access is made available. "Short of providing live video of proceedings, permanent live audio of the Supreme Court's proceedings is the best way to keep the public informed and engaged with respect to its operations," the letter said. Hasan Minhaj questioned over embellished stories in standup act Wild finishes highlight NFL's Week 2 California suing oil companies for hiding climate change risks Stuffing may be a once or twice-a-year side dish during holiday months, but because it doesn't frequently have a spot on the dinner table, when it does claim its place, it's mission-critical that it hits all the notes for your taste buds. One of the biggest challenges is to remember to give your bread enough time to go stale, but the good news is this step can be skipped. Ina Garten suggests toasting bread cubes to make your stuffing, revealing on the "Barefoot Contessa" that it only takes seven minutes at 300 degrees Fahrenheit. "What it does is it crisps it and it dries it out a little bit and then it will absorb all the gorgeous flavors," Garten shares, noting that when it comes to the type of bread she uses, she prefers to buy a French boule. French boule looks like a round ball and is a bread lover's dream -- crispy and crunchy on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside. Read more: The Best Food/Cooking Shows To Stream On Netflix Bread Selection Matters Stuffing in a pan on a table - Bhofack2/Getty Images French bread's dry, chewy, and dense texture helps with Garten's method to get it to crisp up quickly, but it may have you wondering why is it important for the bread to be dry when you make this dish in the first place. Stuffing's taste is all about layers and texture and that can only be achieved with a dry, crunchy loaf that is going to soak up the flavors from the aromatics and liquids you use to create it as it bakes. If you try to begin making your stuffing with soft bread, chances are you are going to have a mushy, unappetizing mess. The store-bought is fine chef uses sauteed onions, celery, apples, and sausage to build the sweet and savory sensations your mouth is going to love with each bite of your stuffing. If you are making your stuffing for Thanksgiving day dinner, she recommends cooking it separately from the turkey. As she explains, this results in a nice moist bird and delicious stuffing, and neither's cooking time is jeopardized by the other. Read the original article on Tasting Table. Sep 18, 2023; Columbus, Ohio, United States; Jenny Morgan plays protest songs while others gather outside of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources building where a meeting was held by the Oil and Gas Land Management Commission to determine whether to let private companies bid for contracts on different parcels of land in Ohio. Over audience chants of shame and deny," Ohios Oil and Gas Land Management Commission voted Monday to let companies bid for rights to drill underneath four pieces of public land. The parcels, owned by the Ohio Department of Transportation, are public right-of-ways beside state highways in eastern Ohio. They are not in state parks or wildlife areas. Protestors and visitors fill the room during a meeting that was held by the Oil and Gas Land Management Commission to determine whether to let private companies bid for contracts on different parcels of land in Ohio. Votes on those controversial nominations to explore underneath Salt Fork State Park, Wolf Run State Park and Zepernick Wildlife Area were delayed until the commission's next meeting. "Nobody is in a rush," Ohio Oil and Gas Association spokesman Michael Chadsey said. "We've been at this since 2011. If it takes another week or two or however many to get all of the research done and the conversations to be had, we support that." Environmental groups, however, want to see those nine nominations rejected. "Our campaign was to get denials on all the nominations...," Save Ohio Parks' Roxanne Groff said. "I'm not satisfied with that. To me, it looks like a pathway to go ahead and do approvals on all the nominations." Fracking under state parks Ohio legalized leasing its public lands for oil and gas exploration in 2011, but the law laid dormant until Republicans in the state legislature rewrote it in December 2022. Proponents said the changes simply clarified what those previous lawmakers meant when they legalized drilling underneath public lands: Require state officials to approve the leases if applicants met specific requirements. "The statute makes clear that the legislature intends to open these lands," Commission Chair Ryan Richardson said. "I dont think we have the right or authority to deny the properties because we may disagree." More: As Ohio makes way for fracking beneath state parks, locals call for transparency What the commission can do, in her opinion, is decide whether a proposed set of terms for leasing Ohio's mineral rights meets nine criteria including potential impacts to visitors, economic benefits to the state and environmental concerns. For example, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources recommended no wells or other surface disruptions within 1,000 of the wildlife area, no use of park roads for business purposes and no drilling during hunting season. Environmental groups say these terms, which the oil and gas industry pushed back upon, are nowhere near enough protection. They also believe the new rules were a sneaky, last-minute change by Republicans to open state lands to hydraulic fracturing, better known as fracking," without public comment. The law was attached to another piece of legislation during the final hours of the last General Assembly. Ryan Richardson speaks to other commissioners during an Oil and Gas Land Management Commission meeting to determine whether to let private companies bid for contracts on different parcels of land in Ohio. "Fracking will industrialize our parks, drain and pollute our lakes and rivers of millions of gallons of water for generations, destroy plant, animal, and insect environments, and emit massive amounts of greenhouse gasesincluding methane that accelerate climate change," Save Ohio Parks' Randi Pokladnik said in a statement. "We don't need frackers near our parks. We do need pristine parks our citizens can enjoy for generations." But Ohio Oil & Gas Association President Rob Brundrett said in an April interview that opponents have exaggerated the risks. "There's this misconception that the industry is out there circling state parks and is going to destroy public lands," Brundrett said. "The industry is very highly regulated. Our folks who work for these companies live here as well. It's in our interest to do this safely." He also promised that drilling wouldn't happen inside the state parks even though the law would allow for surface interruptions. Gov. Mike DeWine has said he won't approve surface drilling, and Brundrett said the companies he represents weren't looking to do so. Instead, they can run underground pipes from well pads hundreds, if not thousands, of feet away. "If theres ever drilling around Salt Fork and under Salt Fork, your experiences as a tourist, as a citizen, will not change one bit," Brundrett said. "You will still be able to enjoy the lake and the trails." Fraudulent letters Another one of the nine criteria the commission has to consider when deciding whether to lease a piece of public land to an oil company is public comments submitted for or against the nomination. And opponents asked the commission to delay all voting until Attorney General Dave Yost completes an investigation into how many of the 1,100 pro-fracking emails submitted to the commission were fraudulent. An investigation by Cleveland.com found dozens of Ohioans who said they had no idea how their names ended up on pro-fracking letters. "These apparently fraudulent letters have no place in any decisions that would irrevocably alter our beloved state parks, wildlife areas and public lands," Save Our Parks committee member Cathy Cowan Becker said in a statement. Sep 18, 2023; Columbus, Ohio, United States; Morgan Hager of Meigs County has taps over her mouth while she protests during a meeting that was held by the Oil and Gas Land Management Commission to determine whether to let private companies bid for contracts on different parcels of land in Ohio. Richardson told reporters that the commission is cooperating with the investigation. Anna Staver 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 The Columbus Dispatch: Ohio prepares to lease state parks for oil and gas exploration LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KARK) A child in Little Rock recently died from an infection caused by a brain-eating amoeba, bringing back memories for many of a case from 10 years ago when another Arkansas child faced the same diagnosis but survived. On Thursday, Arkansas health officials reported a death due to a person being infected by Naegleria fowleri at a splash pad at the Country Club of Little Rock. Nexstars KARK has determined the victim in the case was a young child. Death confirmed after rare infection at Little Rock splash pad Arkansan Kali Hardig contracted a similar case of Naegleria fowleri after swimming in a man-made pond ten years ago. Naegleria fowleri cannot infect anyone who swallows it and cannot be spread from person to person, the department of health said. People primarily become infected when swimming in infected bodies of water where the amoeba can enter through the nose. The infection caused by exposure to Naegleria fowleri is called primary amebic meningoencephalitis, or PAM. Symptoms of PAM include severe headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting which then escalates to stiff neck, seizures, and coma that can lead to death. The CDC reports that PAM is almost always fatal: the death rate is over 97%. Out of the 157 known infections between 1962 and 2022, only four have survived. Among those is Hardig. She complained of a pounding headache. After trying to sleep it off, the headache only worsened. My eyes were rolling back in my head, I wasnt there anymore, Hardig said. Her parents rushed her to the hospital where doctors originally thought it was a bad case of the flu, but Hardig said after tests, the scary truth appeared in the lens of a microscope: Hardig had a Naegleria fowleri infection. A death sentence is what they called it, as soon as they saw those little amoebas in my fluid, Hardig recounted to KARK. We went into the ER, Im pretty sure it was a Friday, and they told my parents by Sunday I would be gone, because thats how fast it moves, it was pretty scary, Hardig recalled. But Hardig fought every day, spending 22 days in a medically induced coma. They said I was like a brand-new baby, I had to relearn everything, Hardig explained. FROM THE ARCHIVE: Kali Hardig leaves hospital after 55 days Hardig is now a mother and lives out of state. After making a near-full recovery, she now only feels the lasting effects of scar tissue in her left eye. It causes me to have some blurry vision every now and then, but thats about the only long-lasting effect I have from it, Hardig said. When she was 12, she asked everyone to be careful while swimming and to also wear a nose plug. Today, she shares the same words with the world. Arkansas Dept. of Health says rare brain-eating amoeba infection cause of Little Rock death People need to remember to wear their nose plugs or at least plug your nose when youre in the water, Hardig said. She adds that she understands all too well the pain the family experiencing the effects of the often-deadly amoeba is going through. She said she plans to help in any way she can. Naegleria fowleri can occur naturally in any freshwater body, like lakes, rivers, and hot springs, as well as in soil. The amebae have often been found in the sediment at the bottom of these bodies of water, according to the CDC. While everyone should assume there is a risk when swimming in warm freshwater, most Naegleria fowleri infections have been reported in southern states like Florida and Texas. The amebae can also be found in poorly maintained pools, splash pads, surf parks, or recreational venues, or those that lack enough chlorine. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. CANYON The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum (PPHM) held a special reception Wednesday evening showcasing its newest exhibition, "The Fall and Rise of an American Icon, which culminated with a special premier of the new Ken Burns documentary The American Buffalo on the campus of West Texas A&M University. The documentary will air Oct. 16 and 17 from 7 to 9 p.m. (check local listings) on PBS, PBS.org and the PBS app. With this interactive exhibit, PPHM highlights the history of interactions between bison and the people of the Great Plains. The exhibit chronicles the international furor for buffalo hides that through overhunting and poor allocation of resources pushed the bison to the brink of extinction. Exhibits feature many of the products that were made from bison, as well as historical information and the sacred relationship between Native Americans and the bison. Producers of the Ken Burns film "The American Buffalo" have a panel discussion Wednesday at WT at a premiere of the film in Canyon. In a news release, Andrew Hay, PPHM executive director, spoke about the exhibit, which runs until Sept. 14 of next year. As 'The Fall and Rise of an American Icon' makes clear, much of the human history with the bison involves extreme mismanagement, Hay says. From overhunting, market demand, hide hunters, the national expansion West, and, quite tragically, the governments forceful removal of Native peoples to reservations the collection of PPHM speaks poignantly to all of these factors and their connection to the bison. Visitors to the exhibit will find an engaging narrative about the bison both historically and in the present while also interacting with hands-on technology, learning about conservation, and viewing items from the PPHM collection that are rarely on display. A bison on display at the exhibit " The Fall and Rise of an American Icon" at the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum in Canyon. Hay spoke about the importance of the bison to the regions history and how it shaped the Great Plains and the state of Texas. This exhibit is about showing how important the bison has been for this region of the nation where human beings and bison have interacted for 15 centuries, but ultimately it collapsed through overhunting and hide hunting, he said. It coincided also with Native American life and reservation policy through the U.S. government. But the exhibit ends on a glimmer of hope that through conversation efforts over the last century that bison are no longer an endangered species. Taking this as a great chance to reengage the people in the area about the history of the bison, Hay says that many people do not realize the dramatic events that happened right here in the Canyon area. He said that the diminishing effects of the buffalo had a significant effect on the area and other species. Canyon Mayor Gary Hinders explores the new Panhandle Plains Historical Museum exhibit "The Fall and Rise of an American Icon" Wednesday at the opening reception. Julianna Brannum, a consulting producer on The American Buffalo and descendants of Quanah Parker, spoke about her involvement with the film and her importance to give an indigenous perspective and guidance on the subject. I think this film will help people to understand the indigenous value systems and their lifeways, not just the stereotypical things that many think of with Native American people, Brannum said. "I think the film does an excellent job of maybe humanizing us as people and a culture. I hope people take away a better understanding of who we are and where we come from, as well as why issues like buffalo conservation are important to us. Evan Ortiz, a Native American singer, composer and artist, performs Wednesday at the screening of "The American Buffalo" at West Texas A&M in Canyon. Part of the exhbit "The Fall and Rise of an American Icon" at the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum in Canyon. Julie Dunfey, the producer of the film who has worked on about seven projects with Ken Burns including The Civil War and The Dust Bowl, spoke about the impetus behind the film, which is essentially the biography of an animal. She said that writer Dayton Duncan, who has worked on many films with her previously, had done projects on Lewis and Clark and others, which always seemed to show the impact of the American Bison. The story of the buffalo is a lens onto American history, whether you are talking about indigenous history, western expansion or capitalism, Dunfey said. This is a really unique way of discovering history. Kens films are all about understanding who we are as Americans. ... It is one more way of looking at us. The new exhbit" The Fall and Rise of an American Icon" at the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum in Canyon. Dunfey said that she hopes people take away the magnificence of the continent as well as morality play about our relationship with the natural world. There are a lot of people who have a lot of knowledge about how to live with the natural world, and maybe it's time to start speaking to some of that knowledge, Dunfey said. We are just setting a table for conversation and encouraging people to take a deeper dive and find out more for themselves." This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: American icon of buffalo explored in exhibit, documentary (NEXSTAR) Billy Miller, an actor best known for his roles in soap operas like The Young and the Restless and General Hospital has died, his manager told Variety. He was 43, but would have turned 44 on Sunday, Sept. 17. The actor was struggling with manic depression when he died, his manager said. Millers acting credits list more than 700 episodes of The Young and the Restless (2008-2014) and nearly 600 episodes of General Hospital (2014-2019), plus smaller parts in Suits and the movie American Sniper. Former NFL player missing, mother found dead in Illinois creek He was nominated for both of his major soap opera roles, and won a Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series three times. In addition to his busy acting career, Miller also owned restaurants in Los Angeles, according to the Hollywood Reporter. Miller died in Austin, Texas, Variety reports. No cause of death was given. Help is available for those who need support with mental health. You can call or text 988, or chat online at 988lifeline.org, to speak with a counselor. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. (NEXSTAR) Depending on where you live, you may have come face to face (literally, they have flown into peoples faces) with the spotted lanternfly. The invasive species has been detected in more than a dozen states. If it hasnt reached yours yet, do you need to be concerned? The short answer, as you may have guessed, is yes. But, you cant exactly prepare for the lanternflys arrival either. The spotted lanternfly is native to China and was first reported in the U.S. in 2014. A Pennsylvania forester noticed the bug, pictured below, found one in the southeastern portion of his state. The bug has since spread to at least 13 other states, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture: Connecticut, Delaware, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Rhode Island, Virginia, and West Virginia. New to that list are Michigan, North Carolina, and Rhode Island. Dead lanternflies were found in Michigan as early as 2018 but its first live infestation was confirmed in August 2022, as was Rhode Islands. An infestation was confirmed in North Carolina a month early. Experts in the state said that, based on its size, the insects could have been there for a couple of years before being reported. The spotted lanternfly feasts off of fruit, ornamental, and woody trees, especially the tree of heaven, a fellow invasive species native to China, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Specifically, the spotted lanternfly feeds on sap from over 70 different plant species, PennState Extension explains. Shannon Powers, press secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, tells Nexstar that spotted lanternflies will shoot out that sap as what entomologists call honeydew. Its part of the reason why the insects are so destructive that honeydew can coat leaves, like those on grape plants, and block photosynthesis, thereby stressing the plant. Dont be mesmerized you should kill this dazzling bug This, for example, poses a threat to the wine industries across many states, like New York and Michigan. Even if your state hasnt yet seen a spotted lanternfly, the USDA considers most at risk for infiltration. Excluded are nearly a dozen states: Alaska, Iowa, Maine, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota, Vermont, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. At best, the spotted lanternfly can only travel about a mile on its own, and thats if it gets some help from the wind, Powers explains. Otherwise, it depends on its hitchhiking ability to move around, taking road trips on vehicles, trailers, outdoor equipment, or even hiking humans. While there is no guaranteed way to keep the bug from spreading into new states and regions, but keeping it from finding a ride in the first place can help. Thats why states already facing infestation, like Pennsylvania, have taken steps to limit the bugs travel options. The Commonwealth requires certain companies to obtain an SLF Permit it they transport regulated items within or out of areas quarantined for the bug. Companies located within areas with spotted lanternfly populations are also required to get a permit to bring regulated articles into Pennsylvania. During fall, the spotted lanternflies are in their adult phases and are searching for areas to lay their mud-like egg masses. Its not uncommon to find those egg masses on trees or man-made surfaces like grills, vehicles, outdoor machinery, or any other outdoor area. If you find a spotted lanternfly or an egg mass in an area where the bug has already been detected, like Pennsylvania or New York, you should destroy them. Stomping or otherwise squishing the adult bug will do, while the egg masses take a bit more work. Youll need to crush the masses even and watch for it to burst open thats how you know its been done properly. PennState Extension recommends scraping the egg mass into a bag or container of hand sanitizer or rubbing alcohol, and then disposing of the bag or container. If you find either the bug or its eggs in an area where it hasnt yet been detected, you should at least take a photo of it first, noting where you found it. Then, if youre able to, catch it in a container. PennState recommends trying to collect it in a container of hand sanitizer or rubbing alcohol to kill and preserve it. Traps can also be set to catch and kill the invasive bug. If allowed to spread, the spotted lanternfly could seriously impact the countrys grape, orchard, and logging industries. However, researchers have found a promising sign the spotted lanternfly may not be as damaging to some hardwood trees as originally thought. Pennsylvania State University researchers recently released results of a study showing that while the spotted lanternfly will feast on native trees like the silver maple and weeping willow, reducing growth, the trees are able to recover over time. Earlier this year, a bipartisan group of senators unveiled a proposal to address the bugs spread. No action has yet been taken on the bill. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com. (NEXSTAR) For the first time since March 2020, millions of federal student loan borrowers will be making regular payments on their loans, and interest will be accruing. Though the Biden administrations attempt to erase millions in student debt was halted by the Supreme Court, there are still a number of ways to get debt relief. Among those? Buying a house. Depending on where you live, or where youre willing to move to, you could see your debt erased. Who qualifies for $0 student loan payments? There are a number of states that will help you pay off your student loans should you buy a home in their region. Ready to move? Heres where to look. Kansas Within the Sunflower State are more than 90 counties designated as Rural Opportunity Zones, or ROZ. Those who move into one of those counties can receive student loan repayment assistance and/or 100% state income tax credit, according to the Kansas Office of Rural Prosperity. Administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce, the student loan reimbursement assistance offers up to $15,000 in aid over five years. To qualify, you need to have a new permanent address in one of the counties, moved in after the county began participating in the program, have a degree before moving, and an active loan balance in your name. You can receive up to $3,000 per year, disbursed in the fall, and must provide proof that you used the money toward your loans. Applications are currently being accepted through September for participating counties. Kansas also offers forgiveness for healthcare workers and rural physicians. Maine Want to live and work in Maine? Youre halfway to qualifying for its Student Loan Repayment Credit, administered by the Maine Revenue Service. Via the program, you can receive $2,500 in a refundable tax credit value every year, or $25,000 in a lifetime value, for payments made on your student loans. When will the fall colors peak near me? To qualify, you need to have gotten your degree (associate, bachelor, or graduate) after 2007 from any accredited school in the world and have been a Maine resident during the tax year that had an earned income of $11,934 or more. If approved, you would receive reimbursement for the months you lived in Maine and made payments. The program is undergoing some changes; more details and updated information can be found here. Maryland If living on the East Coast is for you, dont overlook Marylands SmartBuy 3.0 program. Homebuyers with at least $1,000 in student debt can qualify, according to the states Department of Housing and Community Development. Through the program, eligible participants can receive financing of up to 15% of the home purchase price for the borrower to pay off their student debt with a max payoff amount of $40,000. Youll need to get financing through an approved Maryland SmartBuy lender. Eligibility requirements can be found on Marylands state website. If you arent looking to relocate, there are other state-offered student debt relief programs, according to The College Investor. RSV rising in one US region, CDC issues alert In nearly every state Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Texas, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin there is student loan support for healthcare workers. In others like Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, and Texas there are repayment programs for teachers. Some also provide loan repayment assistance to those with legal degrees, especially if they work in the public service field. That includes Colorado, the District of Columbia, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia. The Biden administration is also encouraging borrowers to apply for a new federal repayment plan, known as the SAVE Plan, noting that some may qualify for $0 monthly payments. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. The former girlfriend of Tiger Woods has filed a 53-page brief in the Fourth District Court of Appeal in West Palm Beach in an effort to revive her public lawsuit against him after a judge threw it out in May. The document was submitted by the attorney for Erica Herman, who argued that the trial court erred when it decided to push the dispute out of public court and into private arbitration. The brief also restates that Herman, a former employee at Woods restaurant in Florida, was subject to sexual harassment from the famed golfer and therefore should not be compelled to resolve the dispute in private arbitration. Hermans attorney cites a recently enacted federal law that invalidates non-disclosure agreements (NDA) and forced arbitration in cases of sexual assault or harassment. Congress recently passed the Ending Forced Arbitration Of Sexual Assault And Sexual Harassment Act of 2021, precisely to prevent a plaintiff like Ms. Herman from being forced into arbitration by a former boss and sexual partner related to her employment and sexual relationship, said the brief from the attorney, Benjamin Hodas. What is the issue with Tiger Woods? Herman previously argued that Woods pursued a sexual relationship with her when she was his employee and then forced her to sign a non-disclosure agreement about it or be fired from her job if she did not. She was the general manager of Woods restaurant, The Woods, in Jupiter, when they began their relationship that ended in October 2022. She resigned from her position there in 2020, according to court documents. The two never married. The purported NDA between them from 2017 required her to resolve disputes in private arbitration, but Herman has disputed the validity of that NDA and said she does not recall signing it. Tiger Woods and his then girlfriend Erica Herman, watch play during the 2017 Presidents Cup. No one should be forced out of court and into arbitration without proof that they agreed to arbitrate, said the brief recently filed in Floridas Fourth District Court of Appeal in West Palm Beach. But that happened here. The trial court allowed the Appellee (Tiger Woods) to force the Appellant (Erica Herman) out of court without even threshold evidence that he and she agreed to arbitrate. The burden was not high for the Appellee, but he failed to meet it. Hermans appeal stems from a lawsuit she filed against Woods in March that sought to have the NDA declared invalid. In October, she filed a separate lawsuit against the trust Woods established for his Jupiter Island mansion, claiming she had an oral tenancy agreement to remain there about five more years but was locked out of the house in violation of that agreement. She claimed more than $30 million in damages in that lawsuit, which she voluntarily suspended in June pending the resolution of the appeal at issue against Woods with her recently filed brief. The suit against the trust said she was forced out by the trickery of agents of the trust, who convinced her to pack a suitcase for a short vacation. When she arrived at the airport, they told her she had been locked out of her residence and couldn't return. What is Woods response? His attorney didnt return a message seeking comment. He previously denied that Herman had an oral tenancy agreement and said she is "not a victim of sexual assault or abuse sought to be protected by Congress when enacting the statute. He also described her as a jilted ex-girlfriend who was making specious claims to put pressure on Woods, who famously guards his privacy. His position is that the NDA from 2017 is valid on its face. Erica Herman's attorneys discuss her case in Circuit Judge Elizabeth Metzger's courtroom, Tuesday, May, 9, 2023, at 100 S.E. Ocean Blvd. in Stuart. Herman, 39, ex-girlfriend of Tiger Woods, is suing Woods to get out of a nondisclosure agreement, saying she was the victim of his sexual harassment. Woods' attorneys argued the lawsuit against him should be halted because she signed a nondisclosure agreement requiring that any disagreements between them be settled in private by an arbitrator. Judge Metzer did not give a ruling in court, but is expected to rule this week. Hermans attorney disagrees. His appeals brief was filed after he previously asked the trial court judge to reconsider her ruling in May, which was denied. Neither party behaved as if the purported agreement (from 2017) governed anything they did, Hermans new brief states. In particular, in October 2022, a dispute arose between Mr. Woods and Ms. Herman, about whether she would be permitted to continue living in the house and whether their relationship would continue. Mr. Woods did not take the dispute to arbitration. Instead, he deployed a scheme of trickery and threats to eject Ms. Herman from the house, take her personal property and pets, and break up with her. Melissa E. Holsman contributed to this report. Follow reporter Brent Schrotenboer @Schrotenboer. Email: bschrotenb@usatoday.com This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Tiger Woods' ex-girlfriend tries to revive lawsuit with appeal court Former President Trump late Sunday shared an image on Truth Social telling liberal Jews to make better choices amid celebrations of the Jewish New Year. Trump shared a photo on Sunday evening without any caption of his own. The photo included the message: Just a quick reminder for liberal Jews who voted to destroy America & Israel because you believed false narratives! Lets hope you learned from your mistake & make better choices moving forward! Happy New Year! The image included a list of measures Trump took while in the White House in support of Israel, including his decision to move the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, and recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights territory. It also included the hashtags #Trump2020 and #Jexit, a term some Republicans coined during the 2020 election urging Jewish voters to back Trump. Trump shared the post at the end of Rosh Hashanah, which is the celebration of the Jewish New Year. The post drew criticism from liberals, as well as some Republicans. Confirmed: this is a real post on Trumps Truth Social. Waaaake up, @GOP. This is disgraceful, former Trump communications director Alyssa Farah posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. Trump frequently touted himself as Israels greatest ally, but he has on multiple occasions attacked Jewish voters who do not support him. Trump in 2019 said Jewish people who vote for Democrats are either ignorant or disloyal. Last October, Trump drew backlash after he wrote on Truth Social that U.S. Jews have to get their act together and appreciate what they have in Israel Before it is too late! For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Since starting at the U-Haul on 1440 Cumberland St. in 2002, owner representative Jeff Levengood always wanted to expand the facility's storage capacity. "I managed the store for about 17 years, and I had the vision a long time ago for this," he said. "It took a while to get the idea to cooperate so they would actually invest the money to do it." On Thursday, Levengood stood with U-Haul managers, along with state, city and county officials, and broke ground on a new storage facility across from the company's Cumberland Street location. U-Haul owner representative Jeff Levengood and Area District Vice President Mike Zemba were joined by Lebanon County officials to break ground on construction for a new storage facility on Cumberland Street Thursday. The new three-story facility is projected to hold 830 indoor self storage units, each equipped with climate controlled options and security features. The facility will be equipped with drive-in load and unload bays for residents. Construction on the estimated $14 million project is expected to take more than 11 months, with owners expecting to add up to 12 new jobs when it is completed. "It will be strictly storage," Levengood said. "We will be maintaining the operation across the street with all the trucks, trailers and everything. But this will be strictly storage." Part of the construction includes an upgrade to the facade of the existing 1440 Cumberland St. building. While U-Haul representatives said the work should help beautify the area by building on a former vacant lot, their first focus is providing more services to the residents that they serve in the county. "Our goal is not specifically to beautify the area, it's to provide more service to customers," Levengood said. U-Haul has been serving in the Lebanon area since 1979, and Area District Vice President Mike Zemba said the company has been working over the last year to get this project underway. "Most projects have some stumbling blocks, and this was no different," he said to those in attendance Thursday. "But here we are today, and it's a proud moment to break ground." U-Haul's concept for its new proposed storage facility on Cumberland Street. The largest industries in Lebanon County include manufacturing, transportation and warehousing, according to the State of the County address hosted by the Lebanon Valley Chamber of Commerce in May. Prior to the year 2000, the county had 89 warehouses using 455 acres of land, with a total of 4.2 million square feet under roof. Currently, the county has an inventory of 22 million square feet under roof utilizing 2,150 acres of land. Residents are already expressing interest in using the new Cumberland Street facility once construction is completed in 2024, according to U-Haul owners. "We're underserved in a lot of communities, so this will fill a need immediately as we get it opened," Levengood said. Residents looking for more information about U-Haul services in Lebanon can call the Cumberland St. facility at 717-274-3681 or visit their website at uhaul.com. Matthew Toth is a reporter for the Lebanon Daily News. Reach him at mtoth@ldnews.com or on X at @DAMattToth. This article originally appeared on Lebanon Daily News: Lebanon PA U-Haul breaks ground on expanded facility on Cumberland St. FILE - Students with the help of their parents move into Russell Hall during move in day at the University of Georgia on Friday, Aug. 11, 2023. UGA is once again in the top 20 public universities on the U.S. News and World Report rankings. The University of Georgia is among the top 20 public universities in the country for the eighth year in a row. That's according to the U.S. News and World Report for 2024, which places UGA in the No. 20 slot and also lists the Georgia Institute of Technology in the No. 10 slot. UGA is tied with Texas A&M and Virginia Tech. It also lands in the top 50 national universities, which includes not only public schools but also private instutitions. "The University of Georgia is increasingly recognized as one of the best institutions of higher education in the United States in terms of both quality and value," UGA President Jere W. Morehead was quoted as saying in a press release. "Our consistency in the top 20 is a testament to the dedication of our talented faculty, staff and students, as well as the loyal alumni and friends who support us. UGA also landed in the top 50 for undergraduate research, best colleges for veterans, best undergraduate teaching and most innovative schools. According to the press release, UGA has more than 94% of first-year students return for a second year, and more than 88% of them graduate within six years. The U.S. News and World Report compares colleges and universities across a range of metrics using indicators like graduation and retention rates, debt, peer assessment and more. Another top ranking: UGA lands in top 10 public universities on new ranking from Niche This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: University of Georgia in top 20 USNWR public school ranking again The Scoop Ukraines first lady Olena Zelenska will speak at Georgetown University in Washington this coming Thursday about the impact of Russias war in Ukraine on schools and access to education, Semafor has learned. Zelenska plans to donate 260 books about Ukraine to Georgetown, according to a representative for the university, and call for the development of a Ukrainian studies program at U.S. universities. She will give a speech and then sit for a question-and-answer session with former Amb. Melanne Verveer, the director of Georgetowns Institute for Women, Peace, and Security. The speech will coincide with a planned visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Washington. Know More Zelenskyy will be in the U.S. to attend the U.N. General Assembly and later visit Washington to meet with President Joe Biden and lawmakers on Capitol Hill. The trip comes at a critical time for Ukraine, as it presses forward with its counteroffensive against Russia and seeks to keep up U.S. and allied support. The White House has requested an additional $24 billion in security, economic and humanitarian aid for Ukraine from Congress. But the Biden administration faces an uphill battle in getting the funding approved, given vocal opposition from some House Republicans. Zelenskas remarks at Georgetown will focus on the humanitarian impact of the war, which has destroyed hundreds of schools and kept Ukrainian students out of classrooms. Thursdays speech wont be Zelenskas first encounter with Georgetown. She was honored at the Institute for Women, Peace, and Securitys annual Hillary Rodham Clinton Awards last winter, appearing virtually at that event. (Bloomberg) -- Chinese fintech behemoth Ant Group Co. is planning to unwind its investment in A&T Capital, retreating from a $100 million vehicle that was central to its bet on a turbulent digital-asset arena, according to people familiar with the matter. Most Read from Bloomberg The move comes months after A&Ts founding partner Yu Jun resigned, around the time the firm started an investigation into his behavior in the workplace. Yu, a former Ant executive, helped the Jack Ma-backed fintech conglomerate set up A&T to invest in offshore crypto projects. Its unclear if the venture firm will continue to operate or snag a new investor, the people said, asking to remain unidentified discussing a private matter. Its website returned a timed-out error to users as of Monday afternoon. An Ant spokesperson and Yu didnt respond to requests for comment. A representative for A&T didnt respond to a messaged request for comment. Founded in April 2021, A&T has invested in some of cryptos hottest startups, including digital-asset lender Matrixport and Ethereum software maker ConsenSys. Ant is a major investor in A&T. Crypto venture funding slid to the lowest since 2020 in the second quarter, PitchBook data showed. The drop followed last years virtual-asset meltdown and came amid an explosion of interest in artificial intelligence technology. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on the U.S. to continue supporting his country in its fight against Russia, warning that a potential defeat could mean the start of World War III. In an interview with CBSs 60 Minutes broadcast Sunday, Zelenskyy said he was grateful for the support America has given his country so far, but he noted that U.S. funding is serving a much greater cause in keeping Russian President Vladimir Putin s ambitions at bay. If Ukraine falls, what will happen in 10 years? Just think about it, Zelenskyy told CBSs Scott Pelley, according to a translation provided by the network. If [the Russians] reach Poland, whats next? A third world war? "We are fighting a nuclear state that threatens to destroy the world, says Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. If Ukraine falls, what will happen in ten years? ... If [the Russians] reach Poland, whats next? A third world war? https://t.co/uDGl2LK1w1pic.twitter.com/AbFq6zPFxj 60 Minutes (@60Minutes) September 17, 2023 Asked if the war would potentially require an additional $70 billion a figure approximating the total amount of support the U.S. has so far contributed to Ukraine Zelenskyy replied: I dont have an answer. He said that would depend on whether the world is determined to defeat Putin. We cant change Putin, Zelenskyy said. Russian society has [lost] the respect of the world. They elected him and reelected him and raised a second Hitler. They did this. We cannot go back in time. But we can stop it here. Zelenskyy added that he expects Putin to continue threatening to use nuclear weapons against his country as the U.S. heads into the 2024 presidential election cycle. He is waiting for the United States to become less stable. He thinks thats going to happen during the U.S. election, Zelenskyy said. He will use the risk of using nuclear weapons to fuel that [instability], he added. The Ukrainian leader is set to travel to Washington later this week, where he is expected to visit Capitol Hill and also meet with President Joe Biden at the White House as part of a trip to the U.S. for the United Nations General Assembly. His visit comes at a critical time as Biden has asked lawmakers to approve a $24 billion package for Kyiv a request that hard-line Republicans, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, have openly struck down. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) told Punchbowl News on Monday that he expects to also meet with Zelenskyy. Congressional lawmakers have so far greenlighted a total of $113 billion for Ukraine, including $70 billion for security and intelligence among other things, according to The New York Times. Related... Emergency personnel are preparing for an apocalyptic scene to unfold in Ohio next spring. That's because the afternoon sky will go dark for 3 minutes, 16 seconds on April 8, 2024, when the moon passes between the sun and Earth to create the first total solar eclipse in Ohio in 208 years. An unprecedented number of visitors are expected to overwhelm North Central Ohio as they seek the best view of the heavenly event, according to Rebecca Owens, director of the Richland County Emergency Management Agency. Those people will likely overload cell towers, roads and even sewage systems. "We don't even know if we're going to have internet that day," Owens said. Will the 2024 total eclipse be viewable in Canton, Ohio? Canton, along with more populous Ohio cities like Columbus and Cincinnati, sit just outside the path of the eclipse's totality. In other words, the eclipse will be partly viewable in Canton, but other areas in Ohio will provide folks looking to see the totality of the eclipse a better experience. Ohio eclipse: 5 things to know about the 2024 total eclipse in northern Ohio 'It was bumper-to-bumper ... It was shocking' The centerline of the eclipse the middle of the shadow's path will stretch from Texas to Maine. The eclipse will enter western Ohio about 3:10 p.m. near the city of Greenville in Darke County, according to a NASA map. The path of the eclipse will travel northeast, reaching Cleveland by 3:15 p.m., then Erie, Pennsylvania, by about 3:18 p.m. The totality viewing area will be a 124-mile wide strip angling from the southwest to northeast corners of the state. The apex of the centerline will be in Forest, a village 35 miles west of Bucyrus in Wyandot County. The Ohio EMA has compiled a map of public viewing areas expected to be available during the April 8, 2024, solar eclipse. The blue line represents the centerline and the red lines show the boundaries of the totality viewing area. Visitors from around the world will want to be as close as possible to that point of maximum totality, Deloris Mlay, president of the Richland Astronomy Society, explained Wednesday to a group of more than 50 officials from Richland County. She knows firsthand how large such a crowd will be. She learned on Aug. 21, 2017, when she visited Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to watch the total solar eclipse that stretched from Oregon to South Carolina. Eclipse coverage: Ohio spending $1 million on eclipse security for 2024. What is it for? There she found tens of thousands of spectators packed into parks and parking lots designed for only a few hundred people. "They had live music," Mlay said. "They had vendors. They had everything." Many of the people she met in Tennessee were umbraphiles, which are people who chase eclipses. The word literally means "shadow lover." Deloris Mlay, president of the Richland Astronomy Society, explains to county leaders Wednesday what they should expect during Ohio's total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. When the eclipse was over, everyone packed up and tried to leave at once. "It was bumper-to-bumper," Mlay said. "It was shocking." It took her 11 hours to drive from Gatlinburg to Louisville, Kentucky, a journey that Google Maps projects should take only 4 hours, 46 minutes. 'We're all going to be overwhelmed': Counties around Ohio prepare for huge eclipse crowds Seven years later, those same travelers are planning to visit Ohio for the April 8, 2024, eclipse. The state EMA predicts about 250,000 visitors will watch the eclipse in Richland County. Others will travel through to reach Crawford County, where the view will be slightly better. "They will get up in the middle of the night and drive here," Mlay said. Many have already booked their hotel rooms or campsites for the weekend. The county's EMA director said the state government is running advertisements to convince travelers to stay in Ohio that entire weekend, or even longer. People who don't purchase lodging before options run out will still come to the area anyway, because watching the eclipse could be a once-in-a-lifetime event. "We're concerned about people just showing up somewhere and pitching a tent," Owens said. "It might be a little touchy with some of this." If estimates are correct, the county's population will triple the weekend of the event. Keeping that many people safe is going to take a unified effort from all of the emergency personnel in the county, according to Jim Sweat, captain of the Richland County Sheriff's Office. His office is already planning exercises with surrounding police departments, firehouses and ambulance crews to prepare for the big day. "We know we're all going to be overwhelmed," Sweat said. Eclipse communication strong among Ohio's county agencies That flood of people is why the county's EMA office has been planning for the eclipse since June of 2022. Wednesday's meeting was one of several planned where law enforcement, firefighters, school administrators, elected officials, pastors and others who work directly with the general population gather to discuss the status of their planning. The hope is that every organization in the county has its own work groups that are planning ahead for the event. Owens said that, as far as she can tell, Richland County is leading the state in preparedness. "There's not been a lot come down from the state," Owens said. Communication in the county, though, is strong and will only get stronger. County Commissioner Tony Vero told the audience Wednesday that Richland County is launching a special solar eclipse menu on the county website Oct. 1. The new menu will have safety information for visitors, a map with viewing locations around the area, facts about the eclipse and even a page with relevant links. Eclipse traffic could create public-health crisis The overwhelming crowd could pose a public health crisis, according to Susan McFarren, a Richland Public Health nurse for emergency response and preparedness. She's been telling hospitals, nursing homes and other care facilities to stock up on medicine and supplies. One of her fears is that emergency rooms will be crowded with people suffering from minor injuries, which will keep the most at-risk patients from receiving timely care. Local health systems are still putting together a plan to determine whether first-aid stations will be helpful and warranted throughout the county. Ohioans seeking the eclipse should 'be prepared for delays wherever you go' The timing of the eclipse from 3:12 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. will coincide with employee shift changes and school releases. This has already caused most area schools to cancel classes for the day, according to Greg Nickoli, superintendent of Pioneer Career and Technology Center. "Everyone is aware and everyone is planning," Nickoli said. Other options, like remote learning or special educational sessions, are still being discussed by the school districts that have not canceled. Mandating or even recommending closures of any type isn't something the county should do, Vero added. The commissioner said he knows of schools and businesses that are planning to stay open the day of the eclipse, and he said he trusts that they understand their organization's needs better than the government would. Those who do stay open should remember that streets and roads throughout the county could easily be in total gridlock that afternoon, the EMA director said. It's possible that the hundreds of thousands of travelers could also deplete the region's gasoline supply for several days after the eclipse. Her hope is that schools and businesses consider keeping attendance levels to essentials only, and that events like weddings, proms and even funerals be delayed until at least a day after the eclipse. "Keep these things in mind," Owens said. "Be prepared for delays wherever you go." ztuggle@gannett.com 419-564-3508 This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: School closings, funeral delays: Prepare for April 2024 solar eclipse Former U.S. Ambassador to the Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch leaves after her testimony before the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence as part of the impeachment enquiry into then-President Donald Trump on Nov. 15, 2019. Asics has announced a slew of new appointments and shifts to its executive leadership team. The Japanese footwear brand on Friday named Mitsuyuki Tominaga as its new president and chief operating officer. The executive formerly served as Asics managing executive officer, chief data officer and chief information officer. Prior to joining Asics, Tominaga held leadership roles at IBM and SAP. More from Footwear News Asics former president, CEO, COO and representative director Yasuhito Hirota will transition to the role of chairman, CEO and representative director. Chairman and director Motoi Oyama is also transitioning to the role of senior advisor and director. As successor to president Hirota, I will do my best to provide a wider range of customers with the fruit of Asics long-term passionate commitment to product development and creation, Tominaga said in a statement. To achieve this, I aim to bring about transformation whereby digital strategy will be placed at the center of our management and deeply incorporated into our global business, thereby empowering Asics to achieve further growth in profitability. Hirota said in a statement that these new leadership changes are meant to help management further develop the Asics brand in the face of drastic changes in the business environment. Since 2018, Mitsuyuki Tominaga has played a key role particularly in promoting the digitalization of Asics, Hirota said. I truly trust that, as a new president and COO, he will contribute to increasing the corporate value of the Asics Group. The news marks the latest leadership appointment at the footwear brand. In July, Asics tapped 15-year industry veteran Michael Dougherty as its VP of U.S. sales to oversee U.S. wholesale sales. In August, Asics reported its highest-ever quarterly sales in Q2, as business increased year-on-year in all regions and categories in the period. Net sales in the second quarter increased 28.9 percent to 290 billion yen ($2.03 billion based on current exchange rates) compared to 225 billion yen ($1.57 billion) the same time last year. Asics said its strong performance was due to the continued progress with in-person sporting events and the normalization of social and economic activities, which it said only truly reopened globally since the beginning of the year. Best of Footwear News Our directory features more than 18 million business listings from across the entire US. However, if we're missing your business, add your business by clicking on Add Your Business. Alexandru Rosetti, gentilomul Romaniei culturale Pe 20 octombrie 1895 s-a nascut la Bucuresti unul dintre cei mai importanti filologi si editori autohtoni din secolul XX, Alexandru Rosetti. Provenea din vastul si ramurosul arbore genealogic al Rosettestilor (cu atestari de pe vremea lui Vlaicu-Voda), ia [citeste mai departe] Atriva Therapeutics GmbH Atriva Therapeutics and Canadian Biocure Technologies, Inc. entered into an exclusive letter agreement for a reverse takeover transaction. Upon successful completion of the transaction, the resulting entity will continue the business of Atriva Therapeutics. Shareholders of Atriva will receive not less than 75% of the securities of the resulting issuer, with the current shareholders of Biocure Technology holding the remainder. The transaction is subject to various terms and conditions, including satisfactory due diligence, successful implementation of a private placement and shareholder approvals. TUBINGEN, Germany and MUNICH, Germany, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Atriva Therapeutics GmbH (Atriva) is pleased to disclose the signing of an exclusive letter agreement, dated September 14, 2023, with Biocure Technology Inc. (CURE) (CSE: CURE), based in Vancouver, Canada. This agreement marks a significant step forward in Atrivas commitment to combating severe RNA virus infections through innovative host-cell-targeting therapies. We are delighted to have entered into this exclusive letter agreement with Biocure. Our discussions with the Biocure management and board of directors have been exceptionally productive and constructive. We are eager to embark on this journey and combine the strengths of both companies. Together, we aim to address the urgent medical need for safe and effective therapies for patients suffering from severe RNA virus infections. This agreement marks a significant milestone in our commitment to advancing innovative solutions for the benefit of global healthcare, said Christian Pangratz, Chief Executive Officer of Atriva. This letter agreement underscores our commitment to leverage this transaction with CURE as an attractive growth option for Atriva and its stakeholders. We are enthusiastic about the prospect of our companies joining forces and continuing to contribute to improving pandemic preparedness on an extended international scale, stated Ulrich Dauer, PhD, Chairman of the Advisory Board of Atriva. Story continues Highlights of the Transaction: Upon transaction completion, Atriva shareholders and concurrent financing subscribers will collectively hold not less than 75% of the securities of the resulting issuer. Current CURE shareholders will retain a maximum of 25% on a fully diluted basis. The letter agreement stipulates no advances from CURE to Atriva. Atriva will provide CURE with an exclusivity fee of CA$15,000 per month for a minimum of three months. Additionally, a finder's fee of US$2,000,000 is payable through the issuance of CURE shares, with pricing to be determined, aligning with concurrent private placement terms. Transaction Conditions: The completion of the Transaction is contingent upon various terms and conditions, including the successful completion of due diligence, the execution of a definitive agreement by November 30, 2023, (inclusive of typical transaction elements), and the successful completion of a private placement by Atriva or CURE to raise gross proceeds of at least US$15,000,000. Additionally, approval from both companies' shareholders and the endorsement of the CSE and other relevant regulatory authorities are essential prerequisites for finalization. For additional information on this transaction, please visit https://biocuretech.com/news. About Atriva Therapeutics Atriva Therapeutics mission is to develop an antiviral therapy platform against severe respiratory and systemic diseases with a high unmet medical need induced by RNA viruses, e.g., influenza and COVID-19. The clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company is pioneering the development of host-targeting antiviral therapies, making development of viral resistance unlikely, and thereby significantly contributing to pandemic preparedness. The Atriva lead product zapnometinib (ATR-002) is a first-in-class, host-targeting agent that aims to inhibit viral replication and to favorably modulate the bodys immune response to RNA viruses. Atriva Therapeutics was founded in 2015 in Tubingen by a team of leading scientists in viral research and seasoned industry experts and is based with its administrative/operations office in Martinsried (near Munich), Germany. For further information, please visit www.atriva-therapeutics.com and follow us on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter). About Biocure Biocure owns approximately 45% stakes of BiocurePharm in Korea who is a leading biotech company developing its CAR-T cell therapy for leukemia, lung, breast and pancreatic cancer. BiocurePharm is in the process of pre-clinical trials of three major biosimilar products in South Korea, including Interferon Beta 1b, PEG- Filgrastim as well as Ranibizumab. Interferon Beta 1b is used for treating relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Filgrastim is used to treat neutropenia, a lack of certain white blood cells caused by bone marrow transplants, chemotherapy, and other conditions. Ranibizumab is used for treating macular degeneration. It is also used to treat a type of eye problem known as macular edema, as well as certain eye problems caused by diabetes. Contact: Atriva Therapeutics GmbH Christian Pangratz, CEO Phone: +49 69 9999 162 10 pangratz@atriva-therapeutics.com Three patients transferred abroad still intubated, mechanically ventilated Three patients injured in the Crevedia explosions who were transferred abroad are still intubated and mechanically ventilated, the Ministry of Health (MS) informed on Monday. The body of one of the patients transferred to Milan, Italy is over 90% burned, being intubated and mechanically ventilated, hemodynamically stable, requiring intensive vasopressor support. His condition is critical, being intensively monitored continuously. He was later transferred to another healthcare facility in Italy that is highly specialised in the treatment of burns. Two patients transferred to Lubeck, Germany, Citeste articolul mai departe pe stiripesurse.ro Sursa articol si foto: stiripesurse.ro Stiri pe aceeasi tema - Opt persoane sunt in continuare internate in spitalele din strainatate unde au fost transferati dupa exploziile din 26 august de la statia GPL din Crevedia, in timp ce in Romania mai este internat un singur pacient la Spitalul Clinic de Urgenta Chirurgie Plastica, Reparatorie si Arsuri, potrivit unui - Another person injured in the explosion at the LPG station in Crevedia will be airlifted to a hospital in Germany, the Ministry of National Defense announced on Tuesday in a press release sent to AGERPRES.The Minister of Defense, Angel Tilvar, approved a new humanitarian mission on Tuesday, at 9:00 - Another patient injured in the explosions that took place in Crevedia on August 26 died on Monday morning at Floreasca Emergency Hospital, informs the Ministry of Health."This morning, a patient in a very serious condition since admission, with burns on 95 percent of the body surface died at Floreasca - HealthMin says Crevedia explosion critical patients, stable, with reserved prognosisHealth Minister Alexandru Rafila said on Wednesday that the condition of the critical patients admitted to Bucharest Emergency Hospital (two) and Bucharest "Bagdasar Arseni" Emergency Hospital (one) is stable, but - Three patients injured following the explosions in Crevedia, Dambovita County, northwest of Bucharest who are hospitalized in medical units in Romania and six others who were transferred abroad are intubated and mechanically ventilated, the Ministry of Health informed on Monday.Of the three intubated - Two Nepalese are among the patients who were injured in the Crevedia fire and who will be transferred to hospitals abroad, says the Health minister, Alexandru Rafila."There are two Nepalese. They will both be transferred. (...) They were probably working there. (...) They are on the list of those - Other patients injured in the explosions occurred in Crevedia, Dambovita County will be transported abroad on Sunday, announced the head of the Department for Emergency Situations, Raed Arafat.He added that it is possible that some injured people will be transported abroad on Monday, but it depends 18 septembrie 2023 Comunicat de presa Deschiderea de catre ministrul afacerilor externe Luminita Odobescu a Programului de formare profesionala in domeniul afacerilor europene adresat functionarilor publici din Ucraina Ministrul afacerilor externe Luminita Odobescu a deschis, luni, 18 septembrie 2023, Programul de formare profesionala in domeniul afacerilor europene, dedicat functionarilor publici din administratia centrala din Ucraina. Programul este organizat de Ministerul Afacerilor Externe (MAE) si Agentia Internationala pentru Cooperare si Dezvoltare (RoAid), cu sprijinul Biroului Vice-Prim-Ministrului ucrainean pentru Integrare Europeana si Euro-Atlantica.In interventia sa online, sefa diplomatiei romane a transmis un mesaj de solidaritate cu poporul ucrainean si a condamnat atacurile sistematice ale fortelor armate ruse impotriva civililor si infrastructurii critice civile. A exprimat sprijinul ferm si multidimensional al Romaniei pentru Ucraina, care va continua pentru atat timp cat va fi necesar.Ministrul Luminita Odobescu a subliniat deplina deschidere a expertilor romani pentru a impartasi lectiile invatate din experienta de aderare a Romaniei la Uniunea Europeana. De asemenea, a evocat experienta personala in calitate de diplomat implicat activ in negocierile de aderare ale Romaniei la Uniunea Europeana.Programul de formare profesionala in domeniul afacerilor europene se desfasoara in perioada 18-22 septembrie 2023 la Ujgorod, regiunea Transcarpatia, Ucraina. Sesiunile din domeniul afacerilor europene generale vizeaza aspectele politice ale integrarii europene, functionarea institutiilor si procesul decizional din sistemul european, precum si armonizarea legislativa. In ceea ce priveste politicile sectoriale, tematicile vizeaza domenii precum energie, concurenta/ajutor de stat, politici financiare si bugetare, precum si redactarea si promovarea proiectelor pentru obtinerea finantarii europene.Redam mai jos interventia integrala a ministrului afacerilor externe:It is a great pleasure to address you today, opening the first training programme on European affairs, organised by Romania for the Ukrainian civil servants.I take the opportunity to extend my gratitude to Madam Vice-Prime-Minister Olha Stefanishyna and to her Office for their support in organising this training programme. I would also like to thank the regional and local authorities in Ujgorod for their assistance in making all this possible.Before anything else, let me express my deepest compassion and solidarity with you and your families. I know all of you have families members, relatives or friends actively contributing to Ukraines war effort. Some of them paying the ultimate sacrifice for an independent, sovereign and free Ukraine. I am personally horrified by and deplore - the loss of so many innocent lives, and the destructions caused by the dreadful Russian attacks on civilians and civilian critical infrastructure.At the same time, I would like to convey my utmost admiration and respect for the heroism that Ukraine and the Ukrainian people are displaying every single day in the face of the aggressor.Romania remains resolute in our commitment to help Ukraine to resist, to win the war, and to fully restore its territorial integrity.We will stand by your side also to make sure that a secure, sovereign, and independent Ukraine becomes part of the European Union.Dear participants,I am here today to stress very clearly: Romania is a strong and committed friend on your path to the European Union.European integration is not an easy task. I can personally testify about that in detail including from my own professional experience.The EU accession entails extensive and profound reforms. It is not just about the administrative work. It is a great responsibility for each of you because the whole process is ultimately about the livelihoods of the Ukrainian citizens. In the end, it is a truly transformative process that generates prosperity and stability.I am not here to give you a history lesson, but I would like to briefly remind you of Pylyp Orlik. He lived and fought for Ukraine, and spent his latter part of his exile on the territory of present-day Romania. As author of the first Constitution of Ukraine, Orlik set the ground for a European Ukraine. In just 6 articles, he defined norms and principles which are to be found today in the European acquis.In an arch over centuries, you are standing here today on Pylyp Orliks shoulders. And you are the engines working to bring Ukraine in the European family.Dear colleagues,As I speak to you now, I recall my own professional beginnings. As Romania opened the accession negotiations, I started working on trade relations with the European Communities, but soon I became involved in other areas as well, from taxation to energy. I will not lie to you it was not easy, but it brought me many professional and personal satisfactions. Starting from managing the technical details of Romanias accession, I was honoured to become the first woman diplomat appointed Permanent Representative of Romania to the EU. I was proud to hold that position including during our Presidency of the Council of the EU in 2019.What I learned throughout the years is that personal dedication is key.You are now, as we were back in the day, in front of a historical task. A complex, yet beautiful task. And it is up to you to make the most of it and not be deterred by the scale of the process.Not all history textbooks mention the many people who stood behind the big decisions. But the results of their work is visible, influential and long lasting.Dear participants,I hope the training programme we launch today is only the first in a longer series. You will have a chance to interact with my colleagues, diplomats in the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as with experts from the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Energy, Competition Council and the Council of Maramures County. All of them know the inner workings of the European Union and its instruments, and are eager to share with you their lessons and ideas.We hope the topics covered meet your expectations. And we count on your feedback to prepare more targeted modules in 2024.I wish you a fruitful week in Ujgorod and look forward to meeting you in person in the next training programme. For four days this week, between 21-24 September, the Balaton Wine & Gourmet gastronomic festival is being staged at the atmospheric setting of a Jesuit cloister and ruined gardens on the leafy outskirts of Veszprem. Known as Veszprem Valley, the site is one of many venues being used as part of the historic citys role as European Capital of Culture during 2023. Free Tastings & Masterclasses The largest culinary celebration in the region will present the gastro specialities of France and Argentina, along with key representatives of Balaton region gastronomy, comprising more than 50 restaurants and wineries. Family activities, free tastings, professional workshops and exclusive Michelin-starred chef dinners await guests in this magical natural setting. The main gastronomic players of Balaton and surroundings are not the only attraction. In total, around 50 exciting events will be taking place. These will include open-air food and drink demonstrations with free tastings, a wine-tasting tent and, in the breathtaking interior of the former Jesuit church, master classes and guided samplings, as well as experiential dishes from national and international chefs for gourmets, friends, families and professionals, in other words, for anyone and everyone who loves gastronomy. Alongside the culinary heritage, wine traditions and the increasingly exciting modern food culture of the Veszprem-Bakony-Balaton region, Balaton Wine & Gourmet is to host two gastronomic superpowers of the region, showcasing the cuisine and drinking culture of France and Argentina. From Champagne to Patagonia On the main stage, there will be wine, Champagne, Cognac, Armagnac, Calvados, cheese, cake and asado demonstrations, followed by free tastings. Tango and chanson performances, a screening of Argentinian films with round-table discussions and a French fashion show are also planned. Dont miss the masterclass on Argentinian grape varieties, guided tastings of Burgundy wines, a yerba mate tea session, Michelin-starred dinners, as well as five-course Argentinian and French menus with wine pairings. These will feature noble duels between the Malbecs of Argentina and France, and the sweet wines of Tokaj and Sauterne. The venue is one of the most attractive green areas of Veszprem, within the Veszprem Valley, surrounded by streams and shady trees, including the inner hall of the monastery with its unique atmosphere. The Margit ruins are the remains of a convent and neighbouring church founded by Bishop Bertalan of Veszprem in 1240. The Veszprem convent was the first Dominican nunnery in Hungary. Its most famous resident was the daughter of King Bela IV. St Margit lived here from 1246 till 1252, until she was relocated to the Island of Rabbits in Budapest now known as Margaret Island. More: bwg.hu/en Words by Peterjon Cresswell for Xpatloop.com Peterjon has been researching the byways of Budapest for 30 years, extending his expertise across Europe to produce guidebooks for Time Out and his own website liberoguide.com A Lufthansa aircraft was forced to return to Frankfurt Airport after experiencing a technical glitch that required the crew to shut down one of the engines on the plane. The incident occurred with a Boeing 747-400 aircraft that operates on a quad-engine setup. At the time of the incident, the aircraft departed from Frankfurt and was on its way to Seoul-Incheon International Airport. Based on The Aviation Herald's report, the Boeing aircraft had irregularities with oil pressure. After analyzing the problem with the aircraft, the crew decided to shut down one of the engines on the plane. The aircraft turned back toward the airport after 5 hours of flight into the 11-hour journey. The aircraft returned to the airport on three engines and made a safe landing. During the flight, the aircraft had 341 passengers on board, as per Aviation24's report. It is to be noted that no injuries were reported and the passengers were rebooked onto another flight. Also read: World War I-Era Plane Flips, Crashes During Landing Near Massachusetts Museum Following an overnight stay on the ground in Frankfurt, D-ABTL resumed service the next evening as LH732 to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), reports Simple Flying. The aircraft has experienced a number of minor incidents over the course of its 21 years of service, from a lightning strike in 2011 to its most recent in 2020, which was another "flight to nowhere," with the then-18-year-old aircraft experiencing an oxygen system leak during a flight to Rio de Janeiro International Airport (GIG). Although pressurization was said to have been normal during the flight, it was decided to drop to FL140 and return to Frankfurt as a precaution. A similar occurrence involving a different Lufthansa aircraftthis time an Airbus A321-100occurred on a brief flight between Hamburg Airport (HAM) and Frankfurt less than a month ago. New Delhi: The RSS student wing ABVP on Monday launched its manifesto for the upcoming Delhi University Students Union (DUSU) election, promising to work for more scholarships to the marginalised, including transgenders, fairness in education cost and affordable metro travel for students. The student group pitched for the implementation of dedicated university special buses and the construction of new hostels and girls hostels in every college. The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) also promised to introduce an Earn While Learn policy to provide students with opportunities to earn while pursuing their education. Previous ABVP-led DUSUs have diligently addressed student concerns. We are committed to addressing issues like fee hikes, expanding hostel infrastructure, and prioritising mental health, ABVPs presidential candidate Tushar Dedha said. #MyDUMyManifesto The ABVP Manifesto for #DUSU2023 was released today! ABVP's commitment to a thriving campus life shines through in this holistic document, addressing every aspect essential to elevate student life.#ABVP4DUSU #DUSupportsABVP pic.twitter.com/2rodwhVQw0 ABVP (@ABVPVoice) September 18, 2023 ABVPs secretary candidate Aprajita said that the students group will also focus on special initiatives for female students like self-defence training, sanitary pad distribution via vending machines, pink booths near every hostel, installation of CCTV cameras inside and outside college campuses and gender sensitisation camps. Last week, it announced its candidates for the September 22 Delhi University Students Union elections, exuding confidence that its panel will record a sweeping victory. The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) won three of the four seats in the 2019 Delhi University Students Union (DUSU) elections. The Students Union elections could not be held in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while possible disruption to the academic calendar prevented their conduct in 2022. Tushar Dedha, its candidate for the presidents post, completed his graduation from Satyawati College. He is currently pursuing a Masters degree in Buddhist Studies. He joined the ABVP in 2015. He won the election for college cultural coordinator at Satyawati College in 2016. He was also an executive council member at DUSU. Sushant Dhankar, contesting for the vice-presidents post, holds a BA (Honours) degree in English, having graduated from Satyawati College. The Haryana-native is currently pursuing his Masters degree in Buddhist Studies. Dhankar is also a state-level shooting champion. Aprajita, contesting for the post of secretary, hails from Jaunpur in Uttar Pradesh. She completed her BA (Honours) degree in History from Dyal Singh College and is currently pursuing a Masters degree in Buddhist Studies. Sachin Baisla, the ABVP candidate for joint secretary, graduated from Ramanujan College. He is pursuing a Masters degree in Buddhist Studies. The DUSU elections will be held on September 22, after a gap of four years. The elections were last held in 2019. BSEB STET 2023: The BSEB STET Result 2023 will be updated today, September 18. Bihar STET Exam 2023 was held on various dates between September 4 and September 15. The Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) has extended the deadline for filing complaints to the provisional answer key to September 16. Candidates who took the exam are encouraged to keep watching the official website-bsebstet.com. The BSEB had previously stated that the STET results would be released on September 18. According to some local reports, the results will be released today, September 18. BSEB STET Result 2023: Heres how to check Visit the official Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) website at www.bsebstet.com. On the main page, try clicking the "STET Result 2023" button. Follow the link to the website and fill out the form with your roll number and other details. Please submit the information. Candidates who pass the Bihar Secondary Teacher Eligibility Test (STET) will be considered for secondary and senior secondary teacher positions. To pass the exam, General category applicants must obtain 50% of the available marks. The qualifying marks are reduced for candidates from the reserved categories. MUMBAI: A Mumbai court on Monday granted bail to alleged bookie Anil Jaisinghani in a case of attempting to blackmail and bribe Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis' wife Amruta Fadnavis. Jaisnghani was arrested by the Mumbai police in March this year in connection with the case filed by Amruta Fadnavis. His bail was allowed by Additional Sessions Judge D D Almale. His daughter, Aniksha Jaisinghani, also an accused in the case, is currently out on bail. The court has directed Anil Jaisinghani to attend the court on each day and not cause any threat, or offer any promise or inducement to the prosecution witnesses. He has also been directed to surrender his passport with the investigating officer of the case and not to leave India without prior permission of the court. Based on a complaint filed by the deputy chief minister's wife, police had registered a case against the father-daughter duo. Amruta Fadnavis has alleged Aniksha Jaisinghani tried to offer her a bribe for intervening in a criminal case against Anil Jaisinghani and also threatened her. The father-daughter duo has been booked under Indian Penal Code and Prevention of Corruption Act for conspiracy and extortion. As per the probe agency there are several other pending cases against Anil Jaisinghani. NEW DELHI: With the commencement of a special session in the Parliament today, the historic building that stood as a symbol of India's democracy for 76 years has been etched into the pages of history. It was in this very Parliament building that Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of Independent India, delivered his first speech titled "Tryst With Destiny" at midnight on August 14, marking a significant moment. Today, 76 years later, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his final speech from the same Parliament building, reminiscing the golden memories of the nation's past. The Parliament Building designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker had its first brick laid on February 12, 1921. The construction of this sprawling building, covering nearly 6 acres, took six years and incurred a cost of 83 lakh rupees. The inauguration of the Parliament building was done on January 18, 1927, by the then Governor General, Lord Irwin. Until the year 1911, Kolkata was the capital of British India. After the shift to Delhi, the British government felt the need for a new Parliament building, which eventually became the seat of power for independent India, 20 years after its inauguration. The Parliament building, once considered a symbol of British authority, witnessed the transition of power from the British to an Independent India. In the 76 years of independence, this building became the temple of democracy. However, now is the time when the old Parliament building has passed on its rich legacy to the new one, ready to become the modern symbol of Indian democracy. Today, we conducted a special DNA test to bid farewell to the old parliament building. The need for a new Parliament building arose primarily due to the upcoming delimitation exercise scheduled after the year 2026 when Lok Sabha constituencies will be redefined. The possibility of an increase in Lok Sabha seats necessitates more space for the newly elected MPs, making the old Parliament building inadequate. Another reason is the outdated infrastructure of the old Parliament building. The government cites that the foundational structure of the parliament building has become outdated for modern amenities like sewer lines, air conditioning, CCTV, etc. Additionally, security concerns have led to the construction of the new Parliament building. The shift of Delhi from Zone-2 to Zone-4 in terms of seismic activity necessitated a quake-resistant parliament building. The new Parliament building has been designed taking into account all these needs. However, the big question is - what will happen to the old Parliament building? The central government has answered this question in the Rajya Sabha. The old Parliament building will be repaired and repurposed for alternative use. Lastly, the growing number of Parliament employees has resulted in overcrowding within the old Parliament building. As time progressed, the number of parliamentary staff increased, causing congestion within the premises. The old Parliament building will now become a heritage asset for the country, preserved as a museum for people to visit and explore its historical significance. In today's episode of the Zee News prime-time show "DNA," anchor Sourabh Raaj Jain delves into the past, reflecting on the old Parliament's role and its impact on India's journey over nearly a century. In the midst of rising milk prices causing financial strain for many in India, there exists a remarkable village called Nathuwas in Haryana where milk is a gift, freely shared among its residents. In this close-knit community near Bhiwani, the cost of milk doesn't burden the locals, as it's available to all, for free. Intriguingly, every household in Nathuwas possesses a small herd of two to three cows or buffaloes. Yet, the villagers neither sell nor profit from this abundant resource. Instead, they generously offer milk to anyone who requires it, a tradition that traces its origins back 150 years. Why No-one Sell Milk In Nathuwas? - The fascinating story behind this unique practice began when a devastating disease swept through the village, claiming the lives of numerous animals. It was during this bleak period that a local monk offered the villagers an unusual explanation. He asserted that this affliction was divine retribution for the sin of selling milk. To end the suffering, he urged them to cease the sale of this precious commodity. Embracing this spiritual counsel, the villagers made a collective decision to halt milk sales. Over time, the disease waned, and the villagers, standing firm in their belief, perpetuated this tradition, passing it down through generations. - Another story is that the tradition of giving away milk and buttermilk for free is a way of honoring the village's patron deity, Baba Nathu. Baba Nathu was a benevolent saint who was known for his compassion and generosity. The villagers believe that Baba Nathu blessed them with abundant milk and buttermilk, and they are grateful to him for his generosity. Whatever the reason, the tradition of giving away milk and buttermilk for free is an important part of the culture of Nathuwas. It is a symbol of the village's hospitality and generosity. The villagers believe that everyone deserves to have access to fresh and nutritious food, regardless of their financial situation. Moreover, the well-being of the village's livestock is also safeguarded by this practice. By prioritizing the health of their cows and buffaloes over commercial gain, the villagers ensure a sustainable and enduring source of milk for the entire community. Interesting Facts About Nathuwas Village - The village has a population of about 750 people. - Every household in the village has at least two or three cows or buffaloes. - The milk is given to anyone who needs it, including neighbors, visitors, and even people from other villages. - There are no restrictions on how much milk a person can take. - The villagers believe that the tradition is a blessing from God. - The free milk distribution tradition in Nathuvasa is a heartwarming story of community and cooperation. It is a reminder that even in the most difficult of times, there is always hope. In Nathuwas, milk is more than just a beverage; it symbolizes the village's enduring commitment to each other and their enduring faith in the blessings of a united community. This heartwarming story serves as a powerful reminder that, even during challenging times, there is always the potential for goodness and cooperation to prevail. BHARUCH: As heavy rainfall continued to batter Gujarat, the situation in Bharuch district has become challenging, leading to several road closures, including the Narmada bridge, and rescue operations that have helped save 105 people by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). The district administration declared the closure of the Narmada bridge over the river Narmada due to severe waterlogging on Monday. Commuters have been advised by the district collector's office to use National Highway 48 for travel between Bharuch and Ankleshwar. In Ankleshwar, additional road closures have been announced, affecting local travel: Closure of the Amratpura approach road, Closure of the Juna Chhapra - Juna Kasiya NH road, Closure of the Ankleshwar Dudhiya mandir to Old NH road. Furthermore, three other roads have been declared shut: Umalla - Asha - Panetha road, Bharuch - Shuklatirth - Zanor road and Tothidara - Tarsali road. The NDRF has been actively involved in rescue efforts, saving 105 people stranded in low-lying areas of Bharuch district, specifically in Nikora Village. The collaborative operation between NDRF and civil administration relocated the stranded individuals to safety. Meanwhile, the administration in the Narmada district has ordered the closure of schools and colleges on September 18 due to reports of flooding in many villages following the release of water from the Narmada Dam. The situation remains grim as ten major dams, including Ukai, Damanganga, Kadana, and Bhadar, are nearing their overflowing marks. Gujarat has already received nearly 90.8 per cent of its average annual rainfall with Kutch and Saurashtra recording 137 per cent and 111 per cent rainfall, respectively. The regions of south, east-central, and north Gujarat have reported 85 per cent, 83 per cent, and 76 per cent of their average rainfall, as per data from the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC). The release of water from the Sardar Sarovar Dam (SSD), which reached its full reservoir level of 138.68 meters, has exacerbated flooding in low-lying areas of the Narmada district. The India Meteorological Department has warned of torrential rainfall in Gujarat till September 20. In its latest forecast the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a Red Alert for Gujarat and predicted a torrential downpour potentially surpassing 8 inches (204 mm) in the region. According to the IMD bulletin, Aravalli, Banaskantha, and Sabarkantha are expected to bear the brunt of torrential rain on September 18. In addition, heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast for Mahisagar, Patan, Mehsana, and Gandhinagar. The IMD said Ahmedabad, Kheda, Panchmahal, Surendranagar, and Kutch should prepare for heavy showers. On September 19, isolated areas in Patan, Banaskantha, and Kutch are expected to experience heavy to very heavy rains, while Mehsana, Gandhinagar, Morbi, and Surendranagar may encounter heavy rainfall. Moving on to September 20, Kutch should be prepared for heavy to very heavy rains, while Devbhoomi Dwarka and Jamnagar could see heavy rains in isolated spots. The IMD bulletin reported significant rainfall in Gujarat on Sunday with Sabarkantha getting 7 inches of rain, Ahmedabad recording 3.5 inches and Kheda registering 2.3 inches. Rajasthan woman Anju, who went to Pakistan to meet her lover and later married him, may return to India next month. This was confirmed by her husband Nasrullah. He said that Anju is mentally depressed and wants to meet her kids in India. Nasrullah said that Anju wants to meet her kids and may return to India next month. He said that separation from her kids may further deteriorate Anju's health. Anju went to Pakistan on a valid visa in July. She deserted her husband and two kids in India. It was said that her mental condition is not good. Anju travelled to Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and married her Facebook friend there in July this year. In a rerun of Seema Haider's case, Anju, who hails from Rajasthan, allegedly crossed over to Pakistan to meet her lover. The woman is a resident of Bhiwadi and married with two kids. However, unlike Seema, Anju was granted entry into Pakistan by the authorities on the basis of a visa. Gaya Prasad Thomas, the father of Anju, had expressed his sorrow and disappointment at his daughters actions. She is as good as dead for the family. She has no right to come back to India. If she returns, then she has to face strict punishment. What she did is wrong and people who do that deserve punishment, Gaya Prasad Thomas said while speaking to ANI. Thomas had also said that Anju had no right to take her two children. "We don't have any relations with her (Anju). The moment she left India, we cut off all ties with her. I had never imagined that my daughter could do something like this. What she has done is very shameful," Gaya Prasad had said. Anjus husband-- Arvind Kumar had said that before leaving, his wife lied to him that she was visiting one of her friends in Jaipur. Rajasthan Police had taken cognizance of the matter and initiated a preliminary investigation. Earlier this year, Seema Haider had crossed over into India illegally to move in with her Indian lover, Sachin Meena. The Pakistani national Seema Haidar met her Indian lover over the popular online game PUBG. (With agency inputs) NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to preside over a crucial Union Cabinet meeting at approximately 6:30 PM on Monday. While the specifics of the agenda remain undisclosed, there is anticipation that the meeting will deliberate on significant bills listed for consideration during this special session. The gathering is slated to take place at the Parliament Annexe building. Ahead of this pivotal event, Union Commerce and Industries Minister Piyush Goyal, along with Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, held discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. BJP chief JP Nadda was also present during the meeting. Goyal and Joshi are expected to confer with PM Modi prior to the session. Pralhad Joshi, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister, had previously revealed that the ongoing five-day special session will address eight crucial bills. These encompass the Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2023; the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023; the Post Office Bill, 2023; the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023; a bill concerning the welfare of senior citizens; and three bills related to the SC/ST order. Big Announcements Likely There is also speculation that the government might introduce unexpected policy measures. Rumours have circulated regarding two potential subjects for discussion during this parliamentary special session: the 'One Nation, One Election' bill and a potential resolution to rename India as Bharat. Nevertheless, no official confirmation has been provided on these matters. The special session of Parliament, commencing today, will continue until September 22. On Tuesday, parliamentary activities will transition to a new edifice. Commencing the discourse on the 'Parliamentary journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha - achievements, experiences, memories, and learnings' in the Lok Sabha on Monday, the PM reminisced about the imminent relocation of Parliament to the new building on Tuesday, deeming it an emotionally charged moment. PM Modi Cites Nehru, Atal, Manmohan In His Speech PM Modi also invoked the era of Jawaharlal Nehru and Lal Bahadur Shastri through Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh, emphasizing their profound impact on the nation under their leadership. He highlighted their achievements, underscoring the occasion as an opportunity to showcase them. In his address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recalled the words of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee, emphasizing the enduring importance of the nation beyond the fluctuations of governments and parties. He also referenced former PM Jawaharlal Nehru's iconic speech 'Tryst with Destiny,' delivered to the Constituent Assembly in 1947. "The echoes of Pandit Nehru's 'At the stroke of the midnight...' in this House will keep inspiring us. In this House itself, Atal ji had said, 'Sarkarein aayegi-jaayegi, partiyan banegi-bigdegi, lekin ye desh rehna chahiye.' This echoes even to this day, PM Modi stated in his speech. He further acknowledged the contributions of figures like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Ram Manohar Lohia, Chandra Shekhar, Lal Krishna Advani, and others who enriched the deliberations in the House, amplifying the voice of the common citizen. PM Modi also underscored the significance of addresses by various foreign leaders in the House, illustrating their respect for India. He paid homage to moments of national sorrow when the nation lost three Prime Ministers while in office: Nehru, Shastri, and Indira. The Prime Minister concluded by acknowledging the adept management of the House by speakers despite numerous challenges. New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation today in a momentous speech during the opening session of Parliament, emphasizing the significance of the gathering and the achievements of India on the global stage. In his address, Prime Minister Modi began by acknowledging the importance of the special session, stating, "This is going to be a session of historic decisions. We are here to discuss the future of our great nation, and the decisions we make today will shape the destiny of India for generations to come." PM Modi highlighted India's growing prominence on the global stage, particularly through its participation in the G20 group of nations. He proudly proclaimed, "We have become the sound of the Global South through our active participation in the G20. We are proud of this achievement, which showcases India's commitment to global cooperation and its emergence as a key player in international affairs." #WATCH | Special Session of Parliament | PM Narendra Modi says, "This is a short session. Their (MPs) maximum time should be devoted (to the Session) in an environment of enthusiasm and excitement. Rone dhone ke liye bahut samay hota hai, karte rahiye. There are a few moments in pic.twitter.com/eLEy9GOmV4 ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2023 The Prime Minister went on to describe the G20 as a symbol of India's bright future, saying, "The G20 is a sign of the 'ujjawal bhavisya' (bright future) of India. Our contributions in various G20 initiatives, from economic stability to sustainable development, reflect our commitment to a better world." Modi's speech also touched upon the recently inaugurated infrastructure project, "Yahobhumi," which was dedicated to the nation just yesterday. He noted, "Yahobhumi is a testament to India's determination to create world-class infrastructure. It is a symbol of our commitment to progress and development for all our citizens." The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of the parliamentarians' role in shaping the nation's future, urging them to work together for the betterment of the country. He stated, "As elected representatives, it is our duty to ensure that the aspirations of the people are met. Let us put aside our differences and work together for the progress and prosperity of India." PM Modi concluded his speech by expressing his optimism for India's future, saying, "We stand at a pivotal moment in our history, and it is up to us to seize this opportunity and lead our nation to greater heights. Together, we can build a stronger, more prosperous, and more inclusive India." The opening session of Parliament is expected to see lively debates and discussions on key issues facing the nation, with the Prime Minister's speech setting the tone for what promises to be a significant legislative session. (Bloomberg) -- Steve Case is excited about speed. Most Read from Bloomberg Specifically, a Mach 5 aircraft that will be capable of getting from New York to London in 90 minutes, about twice as fast as Concorde and five times the speed of current transatlantic flights. But what gets Case, the co-founder of AOL, really excited is that Hermeus, the hypersonic aircraft hes backing, was founded by a Georgia Tech graduate and is based in Atlanta not New York or Silicon Valley. What they are doing is crazy, Case said Thursday during an event at Pegasus Park, a campus in Dallas for biotech companies. The company is tapping into the knowledge and skills of Georgia Tech and the fact that Atlanta is a center for aerospace, he said. Theres a reason to be there as opposed to 10 years ago when those graduates probably would have felt they had to go to California or some other place to start the company. Hermeus is just one piece of a larger argument Case has been making for years. Now running investment firm Revolution, he invests in places outside of traditional venture hubs. Its a move that seemed counterintuitive when all the money was to be made in Silicon Valley in the last decade, but now appears more prescient after the Covid-19 pandemic reshaped where people live, work and raise money in the US. It will end up being an important tipping point where there was an acceleration of startups in these Rise of the Rest cities, Case said in an interview, referring to his 2022 book and also the name of his fund at Revolution. Case started Washington DC-based Revolution in 2005, a few years after stepping down as CEO of AOL, the media giant he built before merging the company in a much criticized move with Time Warner. Story continues For the past decade, Case has been building up Revolution and making the case for injecting money outside of traditional venture capital powerhouses, making more than 200 investments across the US. These include Carbon Robotics, a Seattle-based company that uses artificial intelligence to help farmers control weeds; theres Meati Foods from Boulder, Colorado, while in Dallas, Revolution has backed Arcade, a platform to boost productivity of sales teams, and Gig Wage. The San Francisco Bay area, New York City and Boston continue to be dominant in venture capital. The three areas collectively made up about half of total venture investment in 2022, according to Dealroom. But Texas, which received just 2% of all venture capital funding nationally about 10 years ago, is now at 4%, Case said, citing the impact of the pandemic. The Sunbelt has been aggressive in luring major corporations, frequently offering plentiful space, lower living costs and zero income taxes. Tesla Inc. relocated its headquarters from Palo Alto to Austin in 2021, software company Anaplan Inc. announced Wednesday it will move its headquarters to Miami after 10 years in San Francisco and Oracle Corp. moved its headquarters out of Redwood City to Austin in 2020. While theres been a frenzy of headlines around major corporate moves, the startup scene has been less recognized in places like Dallas. Case said legacy companies will need to partner with startups to create the future digital economy. Often we see in cities that theres sort of this divide where startups are over here, the big companies over there and not much happens in between, he said. Thats a missed opportunity. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. NEW DELHI: Amidst the ongoing political debate sparked by DMK Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin's comments on 'Sanatana Dharma,' Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed his belief that "Sanatana Dharma" will endure regardless of circumstances. Speaking at a rally in Madhya Pradesh, Sarma took a swipe at Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, stating, "I want to tell Rahul Gandhi that 'Sanatana was, Sanatana is, and Sanatana will always be.....". #WATCH | Madhya Pradesh: I want to tell Rahul Gandhi 'Sanatana tha, Sanatana hai, aur Sanatana hamesha rahega.....': Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma pic.twitter.com/ah0SqFVlgo ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2023 Interestingly, on September 17, the Assam Chief Minister labeled Congress leader Rahul Gandhi as a "Chunavi Hindu" (Hindu for election purposes), asserting that the response from the Opposition INDIA bloc would have been different if such comments were made against another religion instead of Sanatana Dharma. Addressing the Bharatiya Janata Party's 'Jan Ashirwad Yatra' event in the Narsinghpur district, Sarma emphasized that Sanatana Dharma has endured for over 5,000 years due to the efforts of countless individuals. "Sanatana Dharma will persist as long as the sun and moon exist. Hindus embrace tolerance. The Congress and INDIA bloc label it [anti-Sanatana Dharma statements] as freedom of expression. However, if someone had commented about Muslims, they would have been swiftly condemned by the Congress and its allies," Sarma contended. Sarma, representing the BJP, stressed that speaking against Muslims should be avoided, just as speaking against Sanatana Dharma and Hindus should be. He affirmed, "We respect all religions and believe in 'Sarvdharam Sambhav' [amity among all religions]." In a playful jab at Rahul Gandhi, Sarma questioned whether the audience had witnessed the Congress leader visiting temples during the 2018 Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls campaign. Udhayanidhi Stalin recently stirred controversy by making objectionable remarks about 'Sanatana Dharma.' Since then, the political rivalry between NDA and INDIA alliance has escalated after Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin equated 'Sanatana Dharma' with "mosquitoes, dengue, malaria, fever, and corona." However, the Congress, Trinamool Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and Aam Aadmi Party, all part of the Opposition INDIA bloc, distanced themselves from the DMK leader. The Bharatiya Janata Party condemned Udhayanidhi for his comments and subsequently questioned Rahul Gandhi's stance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the issue during a meeting with Cabinet ministers, urging them to provide a strong response to the Sanatana Dharma debate using factual arguments against the opposition. Questioning Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin's son, Udhayanidhi Stalin, for his objectionable remarks against Sanatana Dharma, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut stated that the DMK leader, an ally in the INDIA bloc, should keep his personal or party views within the state. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin staunchly defended his minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, asserting that it was unfair for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to make comments without understanding Udhayanidhi's stance on 'Sanatana Dharma.' In his statement, MK Stalin accused Bharatiya Janata Party leaders of propagating a false narrative alleging that Udhyanidhi advocated for the genocide of those with Sanatan beliefs. Udhyanidhi also released a statement clarifying his remarks on 'Sanatan Dharma' and criticized BJP leaders for twisting his speech as 'inciting genocide,' considering it a weapon to defend themselves. Days after an FIR was registered against him and Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin over remarks made on 'Sanatana Dharma,' Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge clarified that his statement did not intend to hurt the sentiments of any religion, emphasizing his allegiance to the Constitution. New Delhi: Actress Swara Bhaskar, who announced her pregnancy in June this year, is all set to welcome her first child with husband Fahad Ahmad in October. The actress recently dropped a series of photos and videos from a 'surprise' baby shower she received from Fahad and their close friends and family members. On Monday morning, Swara Bhasker took to her Instagram account to share pictures and videos that give fans a sneak peek into her baby shower. The first video shows Swaras friends saying 'Surprise!' as she and Fahad enter the house. Clearly, Swara had no clue her friends and family were organizing a baby shower for her, and she was seen saying, "I am in pajamas." In the following picture, Swara is seen posing with a balloon that read 'Mommy to be', while Fahad held a 'Papa to be' balloon. The actress was seen in a brown printed co-ord set, while Fahad wore a blue kurta with a vest and white pajamas. In another picture, Swara and Fahad are seen cutting the cake, while the actresss parents and friends clap for them. She mentioned that she was almost 'clueless' and quite 'confused'. She also thanked her friends for 'thoughtfully thinking of this sweet plan and executing it' and also gave a shoutout to her husband for keeping it a secret. Her caption read, "I love surprises! Last week, one of my oldest friends @samar_narayen & the amazing @laks7 and Fahad gave me the sweetest surprise in the form a baby shower that they managed to plan and execute without me getting even a whiff of it! I was sooooo clueless I arrived in pajamas! Ok not quite.. but I didnt catch on till I caught @kaushikmoitra & @priyatnabasu arriving outside & then too I was merely confused! Thank you SO much guys! Samar and Lakshita for so thoughtfully thinking of this sweet plan and executing it, @fahadzirarahmad for keeping the secret and @prashantktm @ashisroy @neetu_sarin @sukhleen_aneja @kunal555555 @swatigetsinsta #UdayKhare, Kaushik, Priyatna , @sabka.malik.ek.taa @sanakapoor5 @shastrivanita for coming and for all the love! Big gratitude to Seema aunty @seemasaran_narayen and Shankar uncle for hosting and Mom and Dad for playing along." Swara Bhaskar and Fahad Ahmad got married in an intimate ceremony in February this year. The couple hosted a series of wedding ceremonies including Haldi, Sangeet, and Reception in March. In June, the actress shared a post announcing that the couple is all set to welcome their first baby this year. On the work front, the actress is rumoured to be a part of projects 'Mrs Falani' and 'Aapkey Kamre Mein Koi Rehta Hai'. However, an official confirmation on the same is awaited. New Delhi: There are several business opportunities and ventures that can tap into the need of the rural/village community and at the same time generates a sustainable income for you. These business ventures are the ones that thrives in all seasons and promises substantial earnings too. Here is the list of 10 lucrative business ideas in rural areas, villages in India that promises maximum profit Internet Cafe In regions where internet access is limited, opening an internet cafe can be a lucrative business idea. You can provide a valuable service by offering reliable internet connections to the people in villages and rural areas and charge customers an hourly fee for usage. This not only meets the demand of the people but also generates income for your venture. Pharmacy Due to the lack of access to medications in many villages, pharmacies that stores all the medicines are in high demand. After making an initial investment in obtaining the necessary licenses and stock, running a pharmacy can provide a stable and reliable source of income while you can also give back to your community by looking after its health. Poultry Farm Starting with small-scale poultry farming such as cattle raising can be thought of. This business concept requires less capital and labor compared to some other agricultural ventures. As the demand for poultry products remains steady while the venture provides sustainable opportunity for people in small towns. Banana Chips Making Banana chips have a significant demand, as an alternative to other carb-based chips. Starting a business that involves making and selling these snacks can be done with minimal capital investment. The process is relatively simple, making it accessible for entrepreneurs looking to enter the food industry. With the right recipe and marketing strategy, you can create a successful banana chips business. Flour Mill In villages where packaged flour may not be appreciated, a flour mill can be a successful venture. With relatively low capital requirements, you can process grains into fresh flour, catering to the local demand for this essential kitchen staple. Oil Mill Similar to flour mills, oil mills can be established within communities to extract oil from soybeans, groundnuts, and mustard seeds. This initiative can not only support local farmers by processing their crops but also provide a valuable product for consumers. It's a business idea with the potential to thrive while contributing to the agricultural sector. Retail Shop Any type of retail establishment --from a neighborhood candy shop, toy shop to a general store --can do well in village and rural communities. These businesses provide long-term profitability. Your initial investment continue to pay off over the years as the daily needs of local residents never fade away. Pearl Farming Pearl farming is an Intriguing and unique idea that can be initiated with a small pond and a modest investment. This uncommon business idea has the potential to yield significant profits over time. By cultivating pearls, you tap into a niche market that values these exquisite gems, making it a profitable venture. Milk Dairy Launching a dairy supply business in rural areas to deliver locally produced milk to nearby urban markets is a good idea. This not only supports local farmers but also provides a crucial source of fresh dairy products to consumers. Locally produced milk have high demand from customers who look for healthy alternatives to packaged milk. Tea Point Tea is an emotion in India --be it urban or rural -- they provide gathering spots for people who want to come together. Opening a tea point where people can congregate over a cup of their preferred beverage can create a sense of community while serving a popular refreshment, making it a promising business opportunity. New Delhi: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar will inaugurate a series of initiatives on Tuesday focusing on agri-credit and crop insurance for the benefit of farmers. The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare is launching these initiatives for revolutionising agriculture in India with an aim to amplify financial inclusion, streamline data utilisation, harness technology and enhance the livelihoods of the agricultural community, an official statement said. The highlights of the launch include a Kisan Rin Portal (KRP) developed in collaboration with multiple government departments to provide access to credit services under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme. This digital platform offers a comprehensive view of farmers' data, loan disbursement specifics, interest subvention claims, and scheme utilisation progress, fostering seamless integration with banks for more focused and efficient agriculture credit. A door-to-door campaign will be kicked off under the 'Ghar Ghar KCC Abhiyaan' to extend the benefits of the scheme to every farmer across India. This campaign aims to achieve universal financial inclusion, ensuring that every farmer has unhindered access to credit facilities. The WINDS Manual, set to be unveiled during the event, extends the impact of the Weather Information Network Data Systems (WINDS) initiative. WINDS, an instrumental innovation, leverages advanced weather data analytics to provide the stakeholders with actionable insights on weather to make well-informed choices. It also caters to parametric crop insurance scheme of DA&FW in addition to non-scheme parametric insurance programmes for crop risk mitigation and disaster risk reduction and mitigation being run by the Insurance industry. The event embodies the Government of Indias commitment to innovation and efficient service delivery for agriculture, aiming to sustain and double farmers' income, the statement added. New Delhi: Starting a corrugated cardboard box business in India can be a great idea for earning a good income. There's a huge demand in the market from FMGC companies to e-commerce websites, which use them to transport their products. Therefore, the business has a lot of potential and you can utilise to not only earn profit but create an impression in the market. Here are some simple steps and information on how to get started: Business Idea Overview: In recent times, the e-commerce market has been growing rapidly in India, and people prefer online shopping. This has created a demand for sturdy cardboard boxes for packaging and shipping. You can tap into this demand by starting a cardboard box manufacturing business. Investment Requirements: To begin this business, you'll need a substantial initial investment. You should consider installing a semi-automatic machine in a spacious area. The cost for a semi-automatic machine can range from 20 to 25 lakh rupees. Alternatively, fully automatic machines are available, but they come at a higher cost of around 50 lakh rupees. You'll also need a sizable space to safely store the manufactured cardboard boxes. Financing Options: To fund this business, you can explore the option of taking a loan from a bank. Discuss your business plan with the bank to determine the loan amount and terms. Raw Materials: For manufacturing cardboard boxes, you'll need raw materials. Craft paper is an essential material, and you should aim for good quality. The cost of raw materials can be around 40 to 50 rupees per kilogram. Manufacturing Process: The manufacturing process involves using the machine to shape and cut the cardboard into boxes. Ensure that the quality of your boxes is excellent to meet customer demands. Market and Customers: You can target both the local market and e-commerce companies. E-commerce companies require a constant supply of boxes for their deliveries. Establishing good relationships with e-commerce companies can lead to significant profits. Profit Expectations: Once your business is up and running, you can expect annual profits ranging from 5 to 10 lakh rupees. Quality Control: Ensure that your boxes meet the required quality standards to attract and retain customers. Marketing: Promote your business through local advertising, online platforms, and by networking with potential clients. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Register your business and ensure you comply with all legal requirements and regulations. Starting a corrugated cardboard box business is indeed a substantial investment, but with the growing demand for packaging materials, it can be a profitable venture. Remember to focus on quality and building strong relationships with your customers for long-term success. Disclaimer: This article is for sole information purpose and for readers' project identification. The earning calculator is also mostly based on assumptive figures to give an example of certain type. Zee News article does not intend to give any financial advice of any sorts. For initiating any venture, you must do your own due diligence and market research. A couple of weeks back, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer Aprilia took veils off its much-awaited A2 licence-compatible motorcycle. Called the Aprilia RS 457, the KTM RC390 rival is all set to make its way to the Indian market soon. The entry-level Aprilia is reported to be made in India. Also, India will be the first market for the Aprilia RS 457. The motorcycle is officially scheduled to break covers in the country on September 20. The manufacturer will launch the motorcycle around the festive season itself if everything falls in place. But before you start saving for it, heres what it has to offer. Aprilia RS 457: Design Calling the Aprilia RS 457 a scalpel, considering its design wont be wrong, I guess. The motorcycle draws inspiration from the larger RS 660. It features a large face with split headlamps on the front with extended LED DRLs. Moreover, the fairing is large, elevating the RS 457s road presence. The design is sharp and imposing, with the right amount of heft to it. The tail section is neatly crafted with the help of a proportionate tail. Aprilia RS 457: Features The RS 457 ticks most boxes right, when going through its feature list. The KTM RC390 rival comes with a 5-inch LCD for the instrument cluster. It further gets backlit switchgear. Other features expected on the RS 457 include a traction control system, riding modes, ABS modes and more. Aprilia RS 457: Specifications The RS457 is underpinned by an aluminium frame, which gets the 457 cc engine as the stressed member. The engine gets a twin-cylinder layout with dual camshaft timing and four valves per cylinder. Also, the motorcycle will push out a peak power output of 47 PS, and it will tip the scale a 159 kilograms. New Delhi: Before making his big Bollywood debut, Aamir Khan's son Junaid Khan worked for several years at theatre. He worked with director Quasar Thakore Padamsee in his adaptation of Bertolt Brecht's 'Mother Courage and Her Children'. Currently, Junaid is gearing up for his acting debut with Yash Raj Films' 'Maharaj'. In addition, the star kid has reportedly also bagged his second project with south actress Sai Pallavi. A source close to the film reveals, "Junaid accompanied the team of his next film, an untitled love story, in which he will star opposite Sai Pallavi. The film will be directed by Sunil Pandey and the lead pair traveled to the city of Sapporo in Japan. The team had gone to do a recce for the film in the works as the preps for the same have begun. It is a love story set in the scenic beauty of this city Sapporo which has never before been shown in Indian cinema. So there is going to be something different in that aspect in the film." Junaid was papped by the shutterbugs as he arrived back in Mumbai from Japan. The young lad was dressed up in casuals and shyly posed for the paparazzi. Speaking of 'Maharaj', the film will be released under Netflix-YRF's partnership. 'Maharaj' also stars Jaideep Ahlawat, Sharvari, and Shalini Pandey. The film has been directed by Siddharth P Malhotra, whose last film was 'Hichki'. Inspired by true events, 'Maharaj', is an incredible David vs Goliath story set in the 1800s, about how a regular man, journalist by profession, takes on a powerful role-model of society, hailed by many as a messiah for the masses. The fearless reporter uncovers a series of incidents that shake the very foundation of society. Earlier, in an interview, Aamir Khan spoke about Junaid's passion for acting and whether he will be joining Bollywood. The 'Taare Zameen Pe' actor said, "It is up to him (about making his film debut). He should lead his own life and take his own decisions. I don't want to take it for him. I have left it all to him. He certainly has an inclination towards the creative world and towards filmmaking. He is following his path, he has studied theatre. He is actually more interested in theatre than films. I am allowing him to go and find his own path. That's how it should be. He is very bright." New Delhi: The Tabu-starrer action-spy-thriller film 'Khufiya' has been generating enough buzz among the cine buffs. On Monday, Netflix dropped the official trailer of its latest espionage thriller 'Khufiya' starring Tabu in the lead role. The film also stars Ali Fazal, Wamiqa Gabbi, Ashish Vidyarthi, Azmeri Haque Badhon and Alexx O'Nell in lead roles. It is all set to stream exclusively on Netflix on October 5, 2023. Helmed by ace filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj, 'Khufiya' is based on the espionage novel 'Escape to Nowhere' by Amar Bhushan. The Netflix project is a story about Krishna Mehra, a R&AW operative who is assigned to track down India's defense secrets. The two-minute-long trailer shows RA&W trying to find out the traitor within the organization. Ali Fazal's character in the film draws suspicion of being a traitor. Earlier, Netflix had dropped the teaser of the film which they captioned, "A mystery has been brewing. That`s all we can tell you, for now. #Khufiya, coming soon only on Netflix!" It is to be noted that 'Khufiya' marks the third collaboration between Tabu and Vishal Bhardwaj after Maqbool (2003) and Haider (2014). Even though more women in India have access to infertility treatment services and experts, dealing with infertility continues as one of the most difficult issues women face. Infertility is described by the WHO as "a disease of the male or female reproductive system defined by failure to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse." Dr Shobha Gupta, Medical Director and Infertility specialist from Mothers Lap IVF Centre, New Delhi and Vrindavan explains that Women believe that having periods is a natural procedure for which they were born, regardless of whether they are regular or not. They begin to experience stress when they are unable to conceive. They don't interact with others or conduct independent research, which undoubtedly has an impact on their bodies. The mechanisms of reproduction heavily rely on hormones. They decide when to release an egg, how it grows, the timing of menstrual cycles, etc. The two hormones that are essential to these processes are oestrogen and progesterone. Therefore, infertility may happen if the levels of these hormones dramatically rise or fall. The most obvious indication of hormonal changes is acne. This is not comparable to a sporadic pimple. Along with the T zone, the cheeks, jawline, and bottom portion of the face are also affected. In addition, when you receive any type of fertility treatment, it is typical to have skin redness, dryness, flaky skin, pigmentation, or melasma. While the well-known glow of pregnancy is one benefit, some women also have skin issues as a result of the medicines used to trigger ovulation during their infertility treatment journey. However, the surge of hormones recommended during a reproductive cycle can also cause some undesirable side effects in addition to the glow, explained Dr Shobha Gupta. Lets explore what exact skin conditions you face while undergoing fertility treatment explaining Dr. Sandeep Babbar, Medical Director and Dermatologist from Revyve Skin, Hair and Nail Clinic, Faridabad: Acne: Hormonal changes are what cause acne. Acne-prone women frequently also have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which is frequently linked to infertility. High levels of androgen, or male hormones, are what define this. Ovulation may not occur at all or may occur irregularly as a result. Skin Redness: Elevated oestrogen levels might result in skin redness by expanding blood vessels and flushing the skin. Hot flashes may be accompanied by redness and flushing, which can occasionally be brought on by medications, said Dr Sandeep Babbar. Injection site irritation: Although the daily needles are the main cause of skin issues, some women may also experience negative side effects from the medicine solution that contains the fertility medication. Progesterone, according to Dr Sandeep Babbar, is one example. Because sesame oil is used to make these injections, some women may react negatively to it. Other conditions such as skin dryness, hair loss, under-eye bags, pigmentation, darkening of the face and melasma, redness, and rosacea flare-ups. These injections are prepared with oil. The good news according to Dr. Sandeep Babbar is that most skin reactions to fertility treatments will go away once the procedure has finished. How to treat it? If at all possible, attempt to control any current skin issues before beginning IVF, the expert says. If the skin issue is moderate or severe, you might need to see your dermatologist because prescription medication can be needed. Dr Sandeep Babbar uses chemical peels, hydroquinone-based bleaching creams, and Cosmelan peels to treat patients' persistent acne once fertility treatments or pregnancies are over and skincare restrictions are no longer required. "Chemical peels can help increase skin cell turnover and treat facial discolouration," he claims. Treatments for skin discolouration brought on by hormonal aftereffects include retinols, a substance that should not be used while pregnant, and vitamin C serum, a potent antioxidant for the skin. Please follow the below tips by Dr Sandeep Babbar: - During your fertility treatment, keep your skincare basic and non-stripping by using a mild cleanser, a non-pore-blocking (non-comedogenic), moisturising product, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Consider using a slightly heavier nighttime moisturiser and/or a moisturising serum if your skin is dry. - Alpha hydroxy acids, such as lactic or mandelic acid, azelaic acid, or niacinamide, may be useful components to include if your skin is oily or acne-prone. Use these active components in skincare only if you are comfortable doing so. - To avoid sensitivity and irritation and for the greatest outcomes, try to be specific and consistent with the items you use. - If you're still having trouble, speak with a professional for customized advice. You should also stay in frequent contact with your infertility specialist so they are aware of your struggles and can be of assistance. - Treatment for infertility can have a variety of consequences on the body, including the skin. It is truly a transformational experience. Retinoids, Hydroquinone, and salicylic acid are some items that should be avoided during your pregnancy journey. Consult with your fertility doctor before beginning any skin care regimen insists Dr. Shobha Gupta. - Among the usual changes people may feel throughout infertility treatments include hormonal shifts, skin sensitivity, hyperpigmentation, dryness, and itching. "At the end of the day, each person's skin is unique, and their effects may differ as well." The best way to develop a safe, healthy, and practical strategy that meets your unique circumstances is to speak with your doctor. For individualised counselling and support throughout the IVF procedure, I strongly advise speaking with medical professionals. concluded Dr Sandeep Babbar. NEW DELHI: In a significant development, the Union Cabinet on Monday gave its nod for the passage of a bill to ensure 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies, said sources. The Women's Reservation Bill proposes to reserve 33 per cent or one-third of all seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women. The bill also proposes sub-reservation for SCs, STs, and Anglo-Indians within the 33 per cent quota. The bill also proposes that reserved seats should be rotated after each general election. The sources further said that the bill will be tabled during the ongoing special session of Parliament. The government, however, is yet to make a formal announcement in this regard as it skipped the customary briefing after the conclusion of the Union Cabinet meeting earlier today. The Congress has, meanwhile, welcomed the Union Cabinet's decision to clear the women's reservation bill in a key meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Its been a long-standing demand of the Congress party to implement womens reservation. We welcome the reported decision of the Union Cabinet and await the details of the Bill. This could have very well been discussed in the all-party meeting before the Special Session, and consensus could have been built instead of operating under a veil of secrecy, senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh wrote on X (formally Twitter). Its been a long-standing demand of the Congress party to implement womens reservation. We welcome the reported decision of the Union Cabinet and await the details of the Bill. This could have very well been discussed in the all-party meeting before the Special Session, and https://t.co/lVI9RLHVY6 Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) September 18, 2023 It may be noted that a surprise Union Cabinet meeting, convened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the first day of the Parliament's five-day special session, concluded after nearly two hours of intense deliberation on Monday evening. While the specifics of the agenda remained undisclosed, it was reported that the Council of Ministers deliberated upon significant bills listed for consideration during this special session. The gathering took place at the Parliament Annexe building. Ahead of this pivotal event, Union Commerce and Industries Minister Piyush Goyal, along with Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, held discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. BJP chief JP Nadda was also present during the meeting. Goyal and Joshi also reportedly conferred with PM Modi prior to the session. Pralhad Joshi, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister, had previously revealed that the ongoing five-day special session will address eight crucial bills. These encompass the Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2023; the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023; the Post Office Bill, 2023; the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023; a bill concerning the welfare of senior citizens; and three bills related to the SC/ST order. Big Announcements Likely It is being speculated that the government might introduce unexpected policy measures during the special session. Rumours have circulated regarding two potential subjects for discussion during this parliamentary special session: the 'One Nation, One Election' bill and a potential resolution to rename India as Bharat. Nevertheless, no official confirmation has been provided on these matters. The special session of Parliament, which commenced today, will continue until September 22. On Tuesday, parliamentary activities will transition to a new edifice. Commencing the discourse on the 'Parliamentary journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha - achievements, experiences, memories, and learnings' in the Lok Sabha on Monday, the PM reminisced about the imminent relocation of Parliament to the new building on Tuesday, deeming it an emotionally charged moment. PM Modi Cites Nehru, Atal, Manmohan In His Speech PM Modi also invoked the era of Jawaharlal Nehru and Lal Bahadur Shastri through Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh, emphasizing their profound impact on the nation under their leadership. He highlighted their achievements, underscoring the occasion as an opportunity to showcase them. In his address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recalled the words of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee, emphasizing the enduring importance of the nation beyond the fluctuations of governments and parties. He also referenced former PM Jawaharlal Nehru's iconic speech 'Tryst with Destiny,' delivered to the Constituent Assembly in 1947. "The echoes of Pandit Nehru's 'At the stroke of the midnight...' in this House will keep inspiring us. In this House itself, Atal ji had said, 'Sarkarein aayegi-jaayegi, partiyan banegi-bigdegi, lekin ye desh rehna chahiye.' This echoes even to this day, PM Modi stated in his speech. He further acknowledged the contributions of figures like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Ram Manohar Lohia, Chandra Shekhar, Lal Krishna Advani, and others who enriched the deliberations in the House, amplifying the voice of the common citizen. PM Modi also underscored the significance of addresses by various foreign leaders in the House, illustrating their respect for India. He paid homage to moments of national sorrow when the nation lost three Prime Ministers while in office: Nehru, Shastri, and Indira. The Prime Minister concluded by acknowledging the adept management of the House by speakers despite numerous challenges. SINGAPORE, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On September 14, 2023, Biosyngen Pte Ltd (hereinafter referred to as "Biosyngen") was the recipient of the prestigious "Most Promising Cell Therapy Pipeline in APAC" award at the 7th Annual Cell & Gene Therapy World Asia 2023, amidst a pool of international biotechnology companies. Dr Michelle Chen, Director and COO of Biosyngen, receiving the Award on behalf of Biosyngen Representing Biosyngen at the Awards, Dr Michelle Chen, Director and Chief Operating Officer, said: "We are very pleased that our team has received this award at the conference. We are very proud to be acknowledged as a prominent global leader in the field of cell and gene therapy, particularly in the Asia Pacific region, for our dedication to research and innovation in immunotherapy." Currently, Biosyngen is actively progressing its pipeline of first-in-class treatments for solid tumors, some of which are already in clinical phase, following a well-defined plan for its product pipeline. The ultimate goal is to deliver optimal cancer treatment options for patients. In the same award ceremony, Professor Jean Paul Thiery, member of the French National Academy of Science, Chief Scientist, and Chairman of the Scientific Advisory Board of Biosyngen, was honored with the esteemed Lifetime Achievement Award. These accolades serve as a testament to the remarkable accomplishments of Prof Jean Paul, through Biosyngen, in the domains of scientific research and translational medicine. Dr Cecilia Zhang, CSO of Biosyngen, received the Award on behalf of Prof. Jean Paul Thiery Professor Jean Paul Thiery expressed his gratitude for the committee's acknowledgement, emphasizing the potential of cell and gene therapy in driving groundbreaking advancements and boundless opportunities within the industry. He also highlighted the importance of enhancing communication and collaboration among all stakeholders to address industry challenges and facilitate the swift progress of gene and cell therapy medications. Looking to the future, he anticipates more successful clinical trials and the approval of more innovative cell and gene therapy which ultimately benefit a larger population of patients. Story continues Utilizing three independently developed innovative technology platforms, namely IDENTIFIER, MSE-T, and SUPER-T, three of Biosyngen's groundbreaking product pipelines have received approval for clinical trials in both the United States and China, covering various immunotherapy types such as CAR-T and TCR-T. These products are expected to provide effective treatment options for a range of malignant tumors, including nasopharyngeal cancer, lymphoma, lung cancer, gastric cancer, and others. Biosyngen is in clinical stage with products developed from above platforms, it is anticipated that Phase I clinical study of BRG01 (indicated for nasopharyngeal carcinoma) will be concluded by the end of 2023. In addition, the IND application for the company's fourth first-in-class pipeline BST02 (TIL therapy) to the U.S. FDA and China NMPA are also underway. Cell and gene therapy has emerged as a prominent area of focus within the global pharmaceutical industry. Notably, the FDA has granted approval to a greater number of gene therapy drugs in the latter half of 2022 alone compared to the prior five-year period. Market analysis indicates that the cell and gene therapy market is growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22% and is expected to be worth $100 billion by 2030. As a global Biotech headquartered in Singapore and China, Biosyngen is steadfast in its dedication to the development of innovative and impactful cell and gene therapy products, with the aim of benefiting patients worldwide. On September 13th, in conjunction with the CGT World Asia 2023 conference, IMAPAC organized a visit to the GMP Facility of Biosyngen, Singapore. It brought together many representatives from esteemed universities, research institutes, government agencies, prominent pharmaceutical companies, CGT companies, and CDMOs. The purpose of this visit was to facilitate an exchange of perspectives and insights on the challenges and the availability of complementary resources in the ecosystem. About Asia Pacific CGT Excellence Awards (APCGTEA) The Asia Pacific Cell and Gene Therapy Excellence Award 2023 (APCGTEA) has been initiated by IMAPAC, a renowned consultancy specializing in the biopharmaceutical industry and headquartered in Singapore. The primary objective of this prestigious award is to acknowledge and honor exceptional pioneers, researchers, innovators, and manufacturers in the field of cell and gene therapy. Furthermore, the award aims to foster rapid advancement of new therapies, research and development, and manufacturing within this domain. By bringing together industry professionals, the Asia Pacific Cell and Gene Therapy Excellence Awards 2023 showcases the latest research findings, technological advancements, and exemplary manufacturing practices. This event will serve as a platform to celebrate the remarkable achievements of current industry leaders and inspire the next generation of innovators. With a track record of 12 years in organizing conferences and events within the pharmaceutical industry, IMAPAC offers a wide array of referrals and recognition for stakeholders in the CGT industry. About Biosyngen Biosyngen is a cell and gene therapy biotechnology company, focusing on R&D in immunotherapy and drug development; to achieve the best outcome for cancer patients. The company's R&D team consists of multinationals from Singapore, China, Germany, Australia, France and the US, many of whom received their Phd. from renowned universities. Biosyngen's strategy of dual R&D centres and dual GMP facilities in Singapore and China, firmly anchors it as an Asian company towards a global ambition. The company's product pipeline potentially addresses an estimated value of 50 billion USD in the global oncology market. Biosyngen possesses exclusive licenses and patented therapies targeting multiple solid tumors and hematological malignancies including nasopharyngeal cancer, gastric cancer, gastrointestinal cancer and EBV-positive hematological malignancies. The company's first-in-class product BRG01 was granted IND approval by US FDA and CN NMPA for Phase I/II clinical trial. BRG01, for treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma has also been granted Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) and Fast Track Designation (FTD) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In addition, BRL03, for treatment of lung cancer, has also been approved for phase I/II clinical trials by FDA. Biosyngen is also one of a few biopharmaceutical companies that possess a portfolio consisting of CAR-T, TCR-T, TIL and other advanced cell therapies. Based in Singapore and Guangzhou, Biosyngen collaborates closely with the world's leading biomedical research and clinical institutes including A*STAR, Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen, Hannover Medical School, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center and a network of hospitals to advance R&D, develop products and conduct clinical trials in Singapore, Australia and China. Through our R&D capability and translational medicine platform, Biosyngen have been able to engage the end-to-end cycle in drug development from lead identification, preclinical studies, cell production, quality control, regulatory filing, to clinical studies - integrating the entire chain of R&D, clinical trial, GMP manufacturing and commercialization. Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/biosyngen-received-the-asia-pacific-cell--gene-therapy-excellence-awards-apcgtea-2023-301930303.html SOURCE Biosyngen New Delhi: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren failed to get any relief from the Supreme Court in a money laundering case as the apex court on Monday asked him to move to the concerned High Court with his plea against the Enforcement Directorate (ED) summons in a money laundering case. A bench of Justices Aniruddha Bose and Bela M Trivedi refused to entertain the plea filed by Soren. Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the Jharkhand Chief Minister sought to withdraw the plea. Soren had filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the summons issued against him and said that the case against him was a clear case of abuse of law by the Central Government and misuse of the Central agencies to destabilize the democratically elected Government of the State of Jharkhand of which he is the Chief Minister. ED had asked Soren to join its investigation in the alleged money laundering case on August 24, but the Jharkhand Chief Minister did not appear before the central agency on that day. In his plea, Soren has urged the top court to declare Section 50 and Section 63 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 as ultra vires to the Constitution of India and to issue appropriate direction to declare the summons against him as illegal and null and void. He also sought to quash summons against him and all steps taken and proceedings emanating therefrom. "As sentinel on the que vive, this Court has the Constitutional mandate to quash any act of the Union Government which is vitiated by malice and designed to interfere with the franchise exercised by the people of Jharkhand. With the General Election approaching in the next seven to eight months, the political atmosphere in the country has been vitiated by the ruling regime and all efforts have been made to threaten, humiliate and intimidate the political leaders, particularly, when the opposition has united to form INDIA alliance in which Petitioner and his party are a vocal participant and integral part of the alliance and who are not aligned with the NDA," the petition read. Soren submitted that the issuance of summons is actuated by malice in fact as a false allegation has been hoisted against the petitioner with the sole motive of creating political uncertainty and unrest in the State. The respondent ED earlier also sought to link the petitioner with the alleged illegal mining of stone chips in Jharkhand and accordingly summons were issued, he further added. He also told the court that he has duly provided details of all movable and immovable properties owned by him and his family along with certified copies of the title deed thereof. Soren was earlier summoned by the ED in mid-August in connection with an alleged land scam case. However, Soren did not join the central agency probe stating that he was busy with the preparation for the Independence Day celebration in the state. He was again asked to appear on August 24 and September 9 but he did not appear before the probe agency. Jharkhand CM Will Have To Face ED, Says BJP With the "kind of corruption" he has committed in his state, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren will not get any relief from any court and he will have to eventually face an Enforcement Directorate probe, the BJP said on Monday. "Hemant Soren is running from an ED probeHe didn't get any relief from the Supreme Court. I am confident that the kind of corruption he has committed, he won't get any relief from any court. He will have to face the probe. His deeds will come out before people," BJP spokesperson Syed Zafar Islam told a press conference at the party headquarters here. The BJP spokesperson alleged that the Jharkhand chief minister has committed scams worth Rs 10,000-20,000 crore by misusing his power and position in the state. He rejected the charge that the BJP-led Centre has put the central probe agency after Soren to weaken the opposition parties INDIA alliance. "The ED is doing its work following the lead (of the alleged scams involving Soren)," Islam said, alleging Soren's involvement in a series of scams including in the allocation of coal blocks, illegal mining, misuse of rural development funds. The BJP spokesperson alleged Soren has "illegally procured" land across Jharkhand in fake names. "Hemant Soren, who is a member of the INDI Alliance is looting Jharkhand in connivance with the leader of the 'ghamandia gathbandhan' (INDIA bloc of opposition parties) which promotes corruption, parivarvad and appeasement politics. Each of the INDI Alliance constituents get their share in Soren's," he alleged. Money Laundering Probe Against Hemant Soren The 48-year-old Jharkhand Mukti Morcha leader was interrogated for over nine hours by the ED on November 17 last year in connection with another money-laundering case linked to alleged illegal mining in the state. The central probe agency is investigating more than a dozen land deals, including one related to defence land, wherein a group of mafia, middlemen and bureaucrats allegedly connived to forge deeds and documents of as long back as 1932. The ED has arrested several people so far in the state, including Soren's political aide Pankaj Mishra. Soren was initially summoned by the ED on November 3, 2022, but he did not appear citing official engagements. He had even dared the central probe agency to arrest him and then sought a three-week deferment of the summons. New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a trip down memory lane on Monday, reminiscing about the emotional moment he first stepped into Parliament as an MP in 2014. He spoke about bowing in reverence to the temple of democracy, expressing disbelief that a child from a humble background could enter the Parliament. Launching a discussion on the 'Parliamentary journey of 75 years, starting from the Samvidhan Sabha achievements, experiences, memories, and learnings' in the Lok Sabha, the Prime Minister also mentioned the upcoming shift to the new Parliament building, describing it as a poignant moment. The Special Session of Parliament commenced on Monday and will run until Friday, holding many bitter-sweet memories within its current building, according to PM Modi. "Bidding farewell to this structure is an emotional moment...We've experienced both disagreements and unity within these walls," he stated. Reflecting on his early days in Parliament, he shared, "When I first walked into this Parliament building as an MP, I paid my respects to the temple of democracy. It was a deeply emotional moment for me. I never envisioned that a child from a poor family, living on a railway platform, could make it to Parliament. I never imagined I would receive so much love from the people." PM Modi also touched upon the significant contributions of former Prime Ministers and recollected the inspiring words of India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, during India's independence. "The echoes of Pandit Nehru's 'At the stroke of the midnight...' in this House will continue to inspire us. In this very House, Atal ji said, 'Governments will come and go, parties will form and dissolve, but this nation must remain.' These echoes resonate even today," he added. He also paid tribute to those who valiantly defended the Parliament during the 2001 terror attack, considering it an assault on democracy itself. Switching focus to the COVID-19 crisis, he commended the parliamentarians for their dedication and resilience in attending sessions despite health challenges, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring India's growth journey remained uninterrupted. PM Modi highlighted the success of the recent G20 Summit held in the capital and the Africa Union's full membership, expressing India's pride in the accomplishment and the nation's strength to fulfil significant hopes and expectations. Lastly, he acknowledged the proposed P20 summit - Summit of G20 Parliament Speakers - and affirmed the government's unwavering support, underlining that the triumph of G20 is a collective success for the entire nation. New Delhi: The five-day-long special session of Parliament will begin today and the government is expected to produce four bills in the house according to the tentative list. The proceeding of the house is expected to begin 'Samvidhan Sabha' where the government is set to discuss Parliament's 75-year journey- the first gathering which met on December 9, 1946. The Special Session of the Parliament will be held from September 18 to 22 and all eyes are fixed on the central governments next move. The tentative list of the agenda for the special session includes four bills, however, the highly debated One Nation, One Election bill was not included. Ahead of the Special Session of the Parliament, an all-party meeting was held in the national capital on Sunday with various political parties demanding the passage of women's reservation bill in the upcoming session. Coming out of the all-party meeting, NCP leader (Ajit Pawar faction) Praful Patel on Sunday said that the Women's Reservation bill should be passed in Parliament adding that this step by the government will receive cross-party support. Speaking to ANI, Praful Patel said," After 75 years of Independence, we are about to get a new Parliament. This will be a matter of pride for everybody. We should enter the new parliament building with new thoughts and vision. This issue (Women reservation bill) has been discussed over a long time but concrete steps have not been taken yet." DMK MP Kanimozhi after the all-party meeting said that there is no clarity on why this session has been called however she stated that there was a strong emphasis on the Women's Reservation Bill. "We wanted to know why this 5-day session of Parliament has been called, there is no clarity on that. There was a strong emphasis on the Women's Reservation Bill to be passed in this session and we wanted the Manipur issue, price rise, unemployment and many other issues to be discussed. We also wanted the suspension of Raghav Chadha and Sanjay Singh to be revoked," she said. NEW DELHI: A surprise Union Cabinet meeting, convened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the first day of the Parliament's five-day special session, concluded after nearly two hours of intense deliberation, said sources on Monday. While the specifics of the agenda remained undisclosed, it was reported that the Council of Ministers deliberated upon significant bills listed for consideration during this special session. The gathering took place at the Parliament Annexe building. Interestingly, no customary press briefing was held after the surprise cabinet meeting called by the PM. The speculation is rife that the Union Cabinet may have cleared the women's reservation bill and provided its approval regarding "One Nation One Election" and changing the name of the country from 'India' to 'Bharat.' #WATCH | The meeting of the Union Cabinet is underway in Parliament House Annexe in Delhi pic.twitter.com/73zxxt0xFn ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2023 Ahead of this pivotal event, Union Commerce and Industries Minister Piyush Goyal, along with Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, held discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. BJP chief JP Nadda was also present during the meeting. Goyal and Joshi were expected to confer with PM Modi prior to the session. Pralhad Joshi, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister, had previously revealed that the ongoing five-day special session will address eight crucial bills. These encompass the Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2023; the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023; the Post Office Bill, 2023; the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023; a bill concerning the welfare of senior citizens; and three bills related to the SC/ST order. Big Announcements Likely It is being speculated that the government might introduce unexpected policy measures. Rumours have circulated regarding two potential subjects for discussion during this parliamentary special session: the 'One Nation, One Election' bill and a potential resolution to rename India as Bharat. Nevertheless, no official confirmation has been provided on these matters. The special session of Parliament, which commenced today, will continue until September 22. On Tuesday, parliamentary activities will transition to a new edifice. Commencing the discourse on the 'Parliamentary journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha - achievements, experiences, memories, and learnings' in the Lok Sabha on Monday, the PM reminisced about the imminent relocation of Parliament to the new building on Tuesday, deeming it an emotionally charged moment. PM Modi Cites Nehru, Atal, Manmohan In His Speech PM Modi also invoked the era of Jawaharlal Nehru and Lal Bahadur Shastri through Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh, emphasizing their profound impact on the nation under their leadership. He highlighted their achievements, underscoring the occasion as an opportunity to showcase them. In his address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recalled the words of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee, emphasizing the enduring importance of the nation beyond the fluctuations of governments and parties. He also referenced former PM Jawaharlal Nehru's iconic speech 'Tryst with Destiny,' delivered to the Constituent Assembly in 1947. "The echoes of Pandit Nehru's 'At the stroke of the midnight...' in this House will keep inspiring us. In this House itself, Atal ji had said, 'Sarkarein aayegi-jaayegi, partiyan banegi-bigdegi, lekin ye desh rehna chahiye.' This echoes even to this day, PM Modi stated in his speech. He further acknowledged the contributions of figures like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Ram Manohar Lohia, Chandra Shekhar, Lal Krishna Advani, and others who enriched the deliberations in the House, amplifying the voice of the common citizen. PM Modi also underscored the significance of addresses by various foreign leaders in the House, illustrating their respect for India. He paid homage to moments of national sorrow when the nation lost three Prime Ministers while in office: Nehru, Shastri, and Indira. The Prime Minister concluded by acknowledging the adept management of the House by speakers despite numerous challenges. New Delhi: 'Pushpa' fame Allu Arjun enjoys a great fan following. All thanks to his versatility, dynamic performances and the enthusiasm to celebrate festivals - Allu keeps the audience hooked. This Ganesh Chaturthi, the Pushpa star once again proved that his festive spirit knows no bounds. Along with his family, Allu welcomed Lord Ganesha into his home and shared the glimpses of the joy of the festival on social media. In a delightful picture, Allu shared a glimpse of the beloved Ganesha idol adorning his home. The idol was a sight to behold, beautifully adorned with vibrant decorations and radiant lighting, reflecting the festive fervour of Ganesh Chaturthi. Joining Allu Arjun in the festive spirit is his dearest family members who look equally excited to bring their beloved Ganpati bappa home. In Allu Arjuns social media post, he is seen posing along with his wife Sneha in a traditional avatar. Its not just Ganesh Chaturthi that witnesses Allu Arjun's infectious enthusiasm; the actor is known for celebrating various festivals with equal gusto. His dedication to embracing the diverse cultural heritage of India and sharing it with his fans is one of the many reasons why he is beloved by audiences across the nation. Allu Arjun's participation in this celebration serves as an inspiration for his fans, as he not only excels in his career but also stays deeply connected to his cultural roots. As the actor continues to shine in the world of cinema, his dedication to celebrating festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi showcases a different facet of his personalityone that resonates with the joy of spreading love, unity, and tradition. Its a testament to his commitment to staying grounded and connected with his fans. Allu Arjun is currently shooting for his highly-anticipated movie Pushpa: The Rule scheduled to release on 15th August, 2024. What are the early trends we should look for to identify a stock that could multiply in value over the long term? Typically, we'll want to notice a trend of growing return on capital employed (ROCE) and alongside that, an expanding base of capital employed. Ultimately, this demonstrates that it's a business that is reinvesting profits at increasing rates of return. So on that note, BlueLinx Holdings (NYSE:BXC) looks quite promising in regards to its trends of return on capital. What Is 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 BlueLinx Holdings is: Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) (Total Assets - Current Liabilities) 0.16 = US$208m (US$1.6b - US$245m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to July 2023). Therefore, BlueLinx Holdings has an ROCE of 16%. In absolute terms, that's a pretty normal return, and it's somewhat close to the Trade Distributors industry average of 14%. View our latest analysis for BlueLinx Holdings roce Above you can see how the current ROCE for BlueLinx Holdings compares to its prior returns on capital, but there's only so much you can tell from the past. If you'd like to see what analysts are forecasting going forward, you should check out our free report for BlueLinx Holdings. What Can We Tell From BlueLinx Holdings' ROCE Trend? The trends we've noticed at BlueLinx Holdings are quite reassuring. The data shows that returns on capital have increased substantially over the last five years to 16%. The amount of capital employed has increased too, by 44%. So we're very much inspired by what we're seeing at BlueLinx Holdings thanks to its ability to profitably reinvest capital. What We Can Learn From BlueLinx Holdings' ROCE All in all, it's terrific to see that BlueLinx Holdings is reaping the rewards from prior investments and is growing its capital base. Since the stock has returned a staggering 154% to shareholders over the last five years, it looks like investors are recognizing these changes. So given the stock has proven it has promising trends, it's worth researching the company further to see if these trends are likely to persist. Story continues Since virtually every company faces some risks, it's worth knowing what they are, and we've spotted 3 warning signs for BlueLinx Holdings (of which 1 can't be ignored!) that you should know about. While BlueLinx Holdings isn't earning the highest return, check out this free list of companies that are earning high returns on equity with solid balance sheets. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Key Insights Westag's estimated fair value is 32.88 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity Westag's 33.00 share price indicates it is trading at similar levels as its fair value estimate Westag's peers seem to be trading at a higher premium to fair value based onthe industry average of -9.5% Today we will run through one way of estimating the intrinsic value of Westag AG (FRA:WUG) by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. The Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model is the tool we will apply to do this. Believe it or not, it's not too difficult to follow, as you'll see from our example! We generally believe that a company's value is the present value of all of the cash it will generate in the future. However, a DCF is just one valuation metric among many, and it is not without flaws. For those who are keen learners of equity analysis, the Simply Wall St analysis model here may be something of interest to you. See our latest analysis for Westag Step By Step Through The Calculation We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. Seeing as no analyst estimates of free cash flow are available to us, we have extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the company's last reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, so we discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars: Story continues 10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (, Millions) 10.6m 9.59m 8.99m 8.61m 8.36m 8.20m 8.09m 8.03m 8.00m 7.98m Growth Rate Estimate Source Est @ -13.18% Est @ -9.12% Est @ -6.28% Est @ -4.29% Est @ -2.90% Est @ -1.92% Est @ -1.24% Est @ -0.76% Est @ -0.43% Est @ -0.20% Present Value (, Millions) Discounted @ 5.8% 10.0 8.6 7.6 6.9 6.3 5.9 5.5 5.1 4.8 4.6 ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = 65m The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (0.4%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 5.8%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033 (1 + g) (r g) = 8.0m (1 + 0.4%) (5.8% 0.4%) = 148m Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= 148m ( 1 + 5.8%)10= 84m The total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is 149m. The last step is to then divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of 33.0, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out. dcf Important Assumptions We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. If you don't agree with these result, have a go at the calculation yourself and play with the assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Westag 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 5.8%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.086. 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 Westag Strength Currently debt free. Weakness Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Building market. Current share price is above our estimate of fair value. Opportunity WUG's financial characteristics indicate limited near-term opportunities for shareholders. Lack of analyst coverage makes it difficult to determine WUG's earnings prospects. Threat Dividends are not covered by earnings. Moving On: 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. If a company grows at a different rate, or if its cost of equity or risk free rate changes sharply, the output can look very different. For Westag, we've put together three essential elements you should assess: Risks: Take risks, for example - Westag has 4 warning signs (and 1 which shouldn't be ignored) we think you should know about. 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! Other Top Analyst Picks: Interested to see what the analysts are thinking? Take a look at our interactive list of analysts' top stock picks to find out what they feel might have an attractive future outlook! PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every German stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Tech Edge hosted a fireside chat from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange with Vlad Shmunis, Founder and Executive Chairman of RingCentral (NYSE: RNG), and Tarek Robbiati, its new CEO. Mr. Shmunis and Mr. Robbiati spoke to Tech Edge Editor-in-Chief John Jannarone about the companys growth, milestones, AI integration, the addressable market and more. Watch the full recording below: About RingCentral RingCentral is a leading global provider of cloud-based business communications and collaboration solutions that seamlessly combine phone, messaging, video meetings, and contact center. RingCentral supports customers with AI-powered conversation intelligence that unlocks insights from their interaction data to accelerate business outcomes. With decades of expertise in reliable and secure cloud communications, RingCentral has earned the trust of millions of customers and thousands of partners worldwide. About Vlad Shmunis Vlad Shmunis became Executive Chairman of the Board for RingCentral in August 2023. Prior to that, Shmunis was Chairman and CEO for RingCentral for 24 years. He founded RingCentral with the idea of using the power of cloud technologies to simplify business communications. By unifying message, video, phone, and contact center on a single platform, RingCentral empowers todays mobile and distributed workforces to communicate, collaborate, and connect via any mode, any device, and any location. Under Shmunis leadership, RingCentral has evolved from a startup company, funded in 2006 with a $12 million series A round led by Sequoia and Khosla Ventures, to a publicly traded NYSE listed company with more than $2 billion in revenue. Shmunis holds a Bachelors, Magna Cum Laude, and Masters degree in Computer Science from San Francisco State University and is a named inventor on a variety of US patents. About Tarek Robbiati Tarek Robbiati has served as RingCentrals Chief Executive Officer since August 2023 and has been a member of the RingCentral Board of Directors since December 2022. Tarek Robbiati is a renowned strategic and financial executive with experience across the telecom, media, technology and financial services industries. Prior to joining RingCentral, Robbiati served as Chief Financial Officer and EVP of Strategy of Hewlett Packard Enterprise since 2018 where he helped oversee the companys portfolio transformation and financial growth, including doubling ARR while significantly growing free cash flow. Before joining Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Robbiati served as Chief Financial Officer of Sprint Corporation from August 2015 to February 2018 where he led the companys strategic efforts to reposition the company. Robbiati holds a Master of Science Nuclear Physics and Electronics from Ecole Nationale Superieure dIngenieurs de Caen (ENSICAEN), a Master of Science Business Administration from IAE Caen and a Master of Business Administration from the London Business School. Story continues Contact: Tech Edge Editor@executives-edge.com HONG KONG (Reuters) -Shares of embattled developer China Evergrande Group plunged as much as 25% on Monday after police detained some staff at its wealth management unit, suggesting a new investigation that could add to the property company's woes. Evergrande, the world's most indebted property developer, is at the centre of a crisis in China's real estate sector that has seen a string of defaults since late 2021 that have rattled global markets and sparked fears of contagion. Trading in the company's stock was suspended for 17 months until Aug. 28. During protests by disgruntled investors at Evergrande's Shenzhen headquarters in 2021, Du Liang was identified by staff as general manager and legal representative of Evergrande's wealth management division. "Recently, public security organs took criminal compulsory measures against Du and other suspected criminals at Evergrande Financial Wealth Management Co," police in the southern city of Shenzhen said in a social media statement on Saturday night. Reuters could not confirm that Du was among those detained, and the police statement did not specify the number of people detained, the charges or the date they were taken into custody. The wealth unit was an indirect wholly owned subsidiary, and the imposition of criminal coercive measures on the staff members was in accordance with the law which would not affect the companys operations, Evergrande said late on Monday in a filing to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. It also said it noticed media reports on the transfer of its insurance business and the corresponding assets and liabilities to a state-backed company. The transferred unit, Evergrande Life Insurance Co., Ltd, was a 50%-owned investee company, and the transfer had no significant impact on Evergrandes current operations, the filing said. The stock fell as much as 25% to HK$0.465 in early trading, the lowest in two weeks. It pared losses in the afternoon and ended down 1.6%. Story continues Last month, the Chinese developer posted a January-June net loss of 33 billion yuan ($4.5 billion), versus a 66.4 billion yuan loss in the same period the previous year. Earlier this month, Evergrande said it had delayed making a decision on offshore debt restructuring from September to next month to allow holders of its debt more time to consider its restructuring plan. ($1 = 7.2799 Chinese yuan renminbi) (Reporting By Donny Kwok and Xie Yu, Editing by Anne Marie Roantree, Muralikumar Anantharaman, Lincoln Feast and Bernadette Baum.) (Bloomberg) -- Cryptocurrency platform JPEX shut down some trading during an ongoing investigation by the Hong Kong police. Most Read from Bloomberg Users wont be able to place new orders on its Earn Trading interface from Monday, according to a statement Sunday, referring to some wealth management products. JPEX is negotiating with third-party market makers to resolve a liquidity shortage, the statement said. Hong Kong police are investigating JPEX after a referral from the Securities and Futures Commission, the markets regulator. The SFC has said the firm was operating in the city as an unlicensed entity, the first such warning by the watchdog since the country boosted efforts to grow Hong Kongs presence as a crypto hub by luring more individual investors. JPEX said market makers had frozen funds following probes by Hong Kong authorities. Existing orders on Earn Trading will continue until the products maturity, it said. JPEX didnt respond to a request for comment. The Hong Kong police arrested influencer Joseph Lam Chok in connection with the JPEX probe and police officers were seen carrying boxes into a separate vehicle, according to local media reports and a footage on HK01. Four men and two women were arrested on Monday and are suspected of conspiracy to defraud, according to statement from the Hong Kong police. Authorities have so far received 1,408 complaints on JPEX involving HK$1 billion ($127 million). The operation is ongoing and more arrests could be made, the police added. JPEX is headquartered in Dubai, according to its website. --With assistance from Dominic Lau and Evelyn Yu. (Adds details on police statement in sixth paragraph.) Story continues Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Delek US Holdings Inc (NYSE:DK) recently marked a daily gain of 3.23% and a three-month gain of 31.54%, despite reporting a Loss Per Share of 0.81. Is the stock modestly undervalued? This article aims to answer this question by providing a detailed valuation analysis. Read on to explore the intrinsic value of Delek US Holdings (NYSE:DK). Company Overview Delek US Holdings Inc is a diversified energy business with a focus on petroleum refining, transportation, and storage; wholesale crude oil, intermediate, and refined products, and convenience store retailing. With independent refineries that produce a variety of petroleum products for transportation and industrial markets in the United States, Delek US Holdings has carved a niche for itself in the energy sector. Trading at $30.72 per share as of September 18, 2023, Delek US Holdings has a market capitalization of $2 billion. However, the GF Value, a proprietary measure of the stock's intrinsic value, is estimated at $34.69, indicating that the stock might be modestly undervalued. Delek US Holdings (DK): An In-Depth Look at Its Modest Undervaluation Understanding the GF Value The GF Value represents the intrinsic value of a stock, derived from a unique methodology. This methodology takes into account historical trading multiples, a GuruFocus adjustment factor based on past performance and growth, and future business performance estimates. The GF Value Line on our summary page provides a visual representation of the stock's fair trading value. Delek US Holdings (NYSE:DK) appears to be modestly undervalued based on the GF Value calculation. If the price of a stock is significantly above the GF Value Line, it is overvalued and its future return is likely to be poor. Conversely, if it is significantly below the GF Value Line, its future return will likely be higher. Given that Delek US Holdings is relatively undervalued, the long-term return of its stock is likely to be higher than its business growth. Story continues Delek US Holdings (DK): An In-Depth Look at Its Modest Undervaluation Link: These companies may deliver higher future returns at reduced risk. Examining Financial Strength Investing in companies with poor financial strength can lead to a higher risk of permanent loss of capital. Therefore, it's crucial to carefully review a company's financial strength before deciding to buy its stock. A good starting point is to look at the cash-to-debt ratio and interest coverage. Delek US Holdings has a cash-to-debt ratio of 0.28, which is worse than 62.51% of 1027 companies in the Oil & Gas industry. GuruFocus ranks the overall financial strength of Delek US Holdings at 5 out of 10, which indicates that the financial strength of Delek US Holdings is fair. Delek US Holdings (DK): An In-Depth Look at Its Modest Undervaluation Profitability and Growth Investing in profitable companies carries less risk, especially in companies that have demonstrated consistent profitability over the long term. Typically, a company with high profit margins offers better performance potential than a company with low profit margins. Delek US Holdings has been profitable 7 years over the past 10 years. During the past 12 months, the company had revenues of $17.90 billion and a Loss Per Share of $0.81. Its operating margin of 0.62% is worse than 73.26% of 976 companies in the Oil & Gas industry. Overall, GuruFocus ranks Delek US Holdings's profitability as fair. Growth is probably the most important factor in the valuation of a company. GuruFocus research has found that growth is closely correlated with the long term performance of a company's stock. The faster a company is growing, the more likely it is to be creating value for shareholders, especially if the growth is profitable. The 3-year average annual revenue growth rate of Delek US Holdings is 32.6%, which ranks better than 85.18% of 857 companies in the Oil & Gas industry. The 3-year average EBITDA growth rate is 7.2%, which ranks worse than 59.88% of 825 companies in the Oil & Gas 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, Delek US Holdings's return on invested capital is 0.93, and its cost of capital is 7.08. Delek US Holdings (DK): An In-Depth Look at Its Modest Undervaluation Conclusion In conclusion, the stock of Delek US Holdings gives every indication of being modestly undervalued. The company's financial condition is fair, and its profitability is fair. Its growth ranks worse than 59.88% of 825 companies in the Oil & Gas industry. To learn more about Delek US Holdings 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 GuruFocus High Quality Low Capex Screener. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Continuing its Efforts Toward Corporate Sustainability Taipei, Taiwan --News Direct-- DFI Inc. TAIPEI, TAIWAN - Media OutReach - 18 September 2023 - The 2023 Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards (APEA) hosted by Enterprise Asia recently held its awards ceremony. DFI, the global leader in embedded motherboards and industrial computers, was highly recognized by judges for its outstanding performance in aspects such as corporate sustainability and talent development. It stood out among 200 nominees to win the Corporate Excellence Award. The APEA, the most prestigious indicator of business influence in Asia-Pacific region, used "Capturing Opportunities in a Resurgent Asia" as its theme for 2023 to commend business leaders and enterprises that have seized business opportunities during the economic recovery and demonstrated excellence and perseverance in business development while at the same time not forgetting to fulfill social responsibilities. Enterprise Asia Chairman Dr. Fong Chan Onn pointed out in his speech that technology, manufacturing, and R&D are competitive advantages that Taiwanese business leaders can fully leverage. Therefore, he encourages Taiwan companies to seize the opportunity of economic recovery in the Asia-Pacific region. DFI's President Alexander Su expressed, "Our achievements are attributed to the dedication and efforts of our colleagues, the trust of our customers, and the support of our investors. Externally, DFI researches and develops products and technologies to help companies that value environmental responsibility lower their operating costs and improve energy efficiency. Internally, we provide talent sustainability plans, comprehensive employee training, flexible working hours, and Employee Stock Ownership Trust." DFI is committed to optimizing management and operations in all major aspects, including business growth, value creation, talent cultivation, corporate social responsibility activities, and workplace innovation. DFI not only won the Taiwan Corporate Sustainability Reports Award, but also won the Taiwan Sustainability Action Gold Award by using their own technology to assist rural transportation. Story continues Impacted by the wave of new infrastructure brought upon by production automation, energy-saving and low-consumption trends, and digital transformation, DFI will gradually achieve the goal of green operations. By continuing to pursue innovation and excellence through the three major operating strategies of "smart factory", "AIoT product line" and "flexible and stable supply chain layout", DFI looks forward to becoming the best partner for the intelligent transformation of enterprise OT and creating the greatest value for customers. For more information, please visit: https://www.dfi.com/, LinkedIn or contact us. Contact Details DFI Inc. Evelyn Chang evelyn.chang@dfi.com View source version on newsdirect.com: https://newsdirect.com/news/dfi-wins-corporate-excellence-award-at-the-asia-pacific-enterprise-awards-for-the-first-time-384186049 The latest projections from the International Energy Agency (IEA) suggest that demand for oil, gas and coal will peak before 2030. "This is the first time that a peak in demand is visible for each fuel this decade earlier than many people anticipated," Fatih Birol, executive director of the IEA, wrote in an op-ed published in the Financial Times. That forecast does not sit well with the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). "It is an extremely risky and impractical narrative to dismiss fossil fuels or to suggest that they are at the beginning of their end," OPEC said in a statement. "In past decades, there were often calls of peak supply and in more recent ones, peak demand, but evidently neither has materialized. The difference today, and what makes such predictions so dangerous, is that they are often accompanied by calls to stop investing in new oil and gas projects." Dont Miss: Passive income investments are one of the most trusted methods for riding out a recession so it's no surprise that people are turning to high-yield notes that pay a fixed 7.5% to 9%. Investing in real estate just got a whole lot simpler. With as little as $100, average investors are becoming landlords thanks to this Jeff Bezos-backed startup. According to OPEC Secretary General Haitham al-Ghais, the IEA's claims could have significant global repercussions. "Such narratives only set the global energy system up to fail spectacularly. It would lead to energy chaos on a potentially unprecedented scale, with dire consequences for economies and billions of people across the world," al-Ghais said. OPEC argued that the IEA's reasoning on fossil fuels is "ideologically driven" instead of fact-based. It also noted that fossil fuels still make up more than 80% of the global energy mix and that they provide "vital" energy security for the world. OPEC's statement came on the heels of recent surges in oil prices. If you share this perspective on the enduring importance of fossil fuels, you might want to pay close attention to oil stocks. Here's a look at three that Wall Street finds particularly attractive. Story continues Exxon Mobil Corp. (NYSE:XOM) Commanding over $450 billion of market capitalization, Exxon Mobil is one of the largest players in the global oil and gas industry. Shares enjoyed huge rallies in 2021 and 2022. And the latest rise in oil prices seems to give the stock more upward momentum: Over the past month, Exxon stock has climbed 8%. The business continues to gush profits and cash flow. According to the latest earnings report, Exxon earned $7.9 billion in profits in the second quarter. It also generated $9.4 billion of cash flow from operations and $5 billion of free cash flow. The company is returning cash to investors, too. In the second quarter, Exxon paid $3.7 billion in dividends and spent $4.3 billion on share repurchases. At the current share price, the stock yields 3.1%. Morgan Stanley analyst Devin McDermott has an Overweight rating on Exxon and a price target of $124, implying a potential upside of 6%. Devon Energy Corp. (NYSE:DVN) Devon Energy is an independent oil and gas exploration and production company with operations focused onshore in the U.S. In the second quarter, the company's oil production reached an all-time high of 323,000 barrels per day. For the quarter, the company's operating cash flow totaled $1.4 billion. Free cash flow was $326 million. "Our disciplined reinvestment rates allowed us to generate free cash flow for the 12th consecutive quarter, and we returned $690 million of capital to shareholders through a combination of dividends and share repurchases," Devon CEO Rick Muncrief said in a statement. The company's latest quarterly dividend to be paid on Sept. 29 is 49 cents per share. Note that Devon pays a fixed-plus-variable dividend so the amount could change from one quarter to the next. Stifel analyst Derrick Whitfield has a Buy rating on Devon and a price target of $79 around 49% above where the stock currently sits. Occidental Petroleum Corp. (NYSE:OXY) Shares of Occidental Petroleum more than doubled in 2022. The company benefited from elevated oil prices. At the same time, it received more investor attention after Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway Inc. revealed a sizable stake in it last year. Buffett bought more shares of Occidental in 2023, with Berkshire owning 224.1 million shares of the company at the end of June. In the second quarter, Occidental produced 1.22 million barrels of oil equivalent per day, which exceeded the mid-point of its guidance range. Buffett isn't the only one to see potential in the oil giant. Truist Securities analyst Neal Dingmann has a Buy rating on Occidental and a price target of $80. Because shares currently trade at $66.26, the price target implies a potential upside of 21%. Keep in mind that because of the volatile nature of commodity prices, even the largest oil companies can experience significant fluctuations in their share prices. If you appreciate the generous shareholder returns offered by the oil sector but aren't a fan of such volatility, it might be worth exploring reliable income plays outside the stock market, such as investing in rental properties with as little as $100 while staying completely hands-off. Read next: Don't miss real-time alerts on your stocks - join Benzinga Pro for free! Try the tool that will help you invest smarter, faster, and better. This article 'Dire Consequences' For Billions: OPEC Blasts IEA's Fossil Fuel Demand Forecast, Warns Of 'Energy Chaos' On Unprecedented Scale 3 Top Oil Stocks From Wall Street originally appeared on Benzinga.com . 2023 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved. Vantage Market Research, The North Star for the Working World WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As per Vantage Market Research, the Global Disposable & Reusable Mask Market has been steadily growing over the years due to multiple factors, including rising pollution levels, increased personal hygiene awareness, and the spreading of infectious diseases. According to Vantage Market Research, the global Disposable & Reusable Mask Market is estimated to be valued at USD 2100 Million by 2030 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 7.5% from 2023 to 2030. The global Disposable & Reusable Mask Market will grow to USD 1200 Million in 2022. The market for masks that protect people from airborne particles, contaminants, or diseases is called the disposable and reusable mask market. Disposable masks are made of non-woven fabric materials intended to be used only once. Reusable masks, on the other hand, are typically made of fabric and can be washed and used repeatedly. Get Access to Free Sample Research Report with Latest Industry Insights @ https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/disposable-and-reusable-mask-market-2268/request-sample Key Highlights By Application, the Medical application segment led the market and accounted for a 38.2% share of the global revenue in 2022. By Type, Disposable masks account for over 45% of the global disposable and reusable mask market. The Asia Pacific region was the largest region for Disposable & Reusable Mask market in 2022, accounting for 35% of the revenue share. North America and European regions are expected to expand at the fastest CAGR between 2023 and 2030. Applications for disposable and reusable masks are widespread in many industries. These masks are essential in the healthcare sector to stop the spread of infectious diseases and protect healthcare workers. They are also used in cleanroom settings, laboratories, and the pharmaceutical industry. Due to the ongoing pandemic, these masks have become very well-liked among the general public for everyday use. Additionally, disposable and reusable masks are used in manufacturing, chemical, and construction to protect workers from noxious particles, fumes, and pollutants. Story continues Top Companies in The Global Disposable and Reusable Mask Market DACH Medical Group Holding AG (Switzerland) Honeywell International Inc. (U.S.) Kimberly- Clark Corporation (U.S.) KOWA Company Ltd. (Japan) Moldex-Metric (U.S.) SAS Safety Corp. (U.S.) Shanghai Dasheng (China) Sinotextiles Corporation Limited (China) Te Yin Company (China) The 3M Company (U.S.) The Gerson Company (U.S.) Uvex Group (Germany) To Know an Additional List of Key Players, Request Here to Download a Free Report PDF Brochure: https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/disposable-and-reusable-mask-market-2268/request-sample OR Enjoy a Fabulous 50% Discount with code "SEP50"! Don't miss out on these incredible savings @ https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/buy-now/disposable-and-reusable-mask-market-2268/0 Factors Affecting the Growth of the Disposable & Reusable Mask Market Several factors can affect the growth of the Disposable & Reusable Mask industry. Some of these factors include: Increasing awareness about the importance of personal hygiene and respiratory protection: The COVID-19 pandemic has raised awareness about the need for personal protective equipment, including disposable and reusable masks, to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. This awareness has led to an increase in the demand for masks, thereby driving the market growth. Government regulations and recommendations: Governments across the world have implemented regulations and recommendations requiring people to wear masks in various public settings. For instance, many countries have made it mandatory to wear masks in public transport, healthcare facilities, and crowded places. Such regulations and recommendations have significantly increased the demand for disposable and reusable masks. Technological advancements: Technology advancements have resulted in the creation of masks that are more effective and comfortable. These advancements include the use of advanced filtration materials, improved designs, and features such as adjustable straps and breathing valves. Technological innovations have further stimulated market growth. Rising pollution levels: Increasing pollution levels, particularly in urban areas, have contributed to the growing use of masks. Disposable and reusable masks help protect individuals from harmful airborne pollutants, including dust, smog, and allergens. As pollution levels continue to rise, the demand for masks is expected to increase, fueling the market growth. Growth of the healthcare sector: Consumption of disposable and reusable masks is significantly influenced by the healthcare industry. Mask demand has increased due to the industry's expansion, which has been fueled by aspects like an aging population, a rise in the number of chronic diseases, and improvements in medical care. The COVID-19 pandemic has also significantly increased the demand for masks in healthcare settings, further driving market growth. Top Trends in the Global Disposable & Reusable Mask Market Several trends are happening in the disposable and reusable mask market. First, an increasing focus on environmentally friendly and sustainable options drives up demand for reusable masks. Due to the demand for improved defense against airborne particles, innovations like antimicrobial technology and sophisticated filtration systems are becoming increasingly popular. Additionally, individualized preferences and styles are being catered to by significant trends in fashion-forward designs and customization options. The adoption of e-commerce platforms and the growth of online sales channels further influence market dynamics. Buy this Premium Research Report with Discount | Immediate Delivery @ https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/buy-now/disposable-and-reusable-mask-market-2268/0 Recent Development of the Global Disposable & Reusable Mask Market On December 13, 2022, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention division, first approved N95 masks from Optrel with a clear window in front of the mouth. Although there are other face masks with clear windows, this one stands out because it is an N95. On June 23, 2022, an expansion of the company's current share repurchase program worth US$ 2.0 million was approved by the board of directors of Alpha Pro Tech Ltd., a leading manufacturer of products made to protect people, things, and the environment These products include disposable protective apparel and building products. Market Drivers The increasing awareness about the importance of personal hygiene and safety after the COVID-19 pandemic is a major driver for the Disposable & Reusable Mask Market. Governments worldwide are promoting the use of masks in public areas to stop the spread of the virus, which has caused a sharp increase in the demand for masks. For instance, a sudden increase in market growth was caused by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States recommending the use of masks in crowded areas. Market Restraints A significant market restraint for the Disposable & Reusable Mask Market is the environmental impact caused by the disposal of single-use masks. As the usage of disposable masks increases, there is a substantial increase in plastic waste, which poses a threat to the environment. For instance, masks have been found in oceans and beaches, endangering marine life. This has led to growing concerns regarding sustainability, leading to a preference for reusable masks to reduce the environmental footprint. Market Opportunities The rapid growth of the e-commerce industry presents significant opportunities for the Disposable & Reusable Mask Market. With the convenience offered by online platforms, consumers can easily access a wide range of masks with various designs and features. Additionally, e-commerce platforms have the potential to reach a larger customer base globally, further driving market growth. For instance, popular e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Alibaba have witnessed a surge in demand for masks and have expanded their offerings to cater to this growing market segment. Browse market data Tables and Figures spread through 141 Pages and in-depth TOC on Disposable & Reusable Mask Market Forecast Report (2023-2030). Report Segmentation of the Global Disposable & Reusable Mask Market Type Analysis Disposable masks are the category that dominates in the type segment among the market's reusable and disposable masks. There are a number of causes for this. First off, since they can be quickly discarded after use without the need for cleaning or sanitization, disposable masks are practical and hassle-free. Second, because they are designed for single use, they offer a higher level of hygiene and lower the possibility of contamination. Additionally, because they are relatively more affordable, disposable masks appeal to a wider range of consumers. Even though disposable masks are more affordable and convenient than reusable ones, they continue to dominate the market despite the fact that reusable masks are better for the environment. Application Analysis The medical category dominates the market for disposable and reusable masks. The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly increased demand for masks recently across all categories, as the healthcare industry needs a steady supply of masks for various procedures and practices. Due to their single-use nature, disposable masks are especially important in medical settings where they ensure hygiene and stop the spread of infectious diseases. Additionally, the medical sector dominates the disposable and reusable masks market because it demands masks that adhere to strict industry standards and regulations. Distribution Channel Analysis Online retailers primarily dominate the distribution channel segment of the Disposable & Reusable Mask Market. This category has witnessed significant growth due to its ease of access, convenience, and wide range of options available to consumers. Online platforms provide a seamless shopping experience, allowing customers to browse, compare, and purchase masks from the comfort of their homes. Moreover, online retailers often offer competitive pricing and attractive discounts, attracting consumers to choose this channel for their mask purchases. Offline retailers, pharmacies, and supermarkets/hypermarkets also play a crucial role in the distribution channel, particularly for customers who prefer physical shopping or have immediate mask requirements. These channels offer the advantage of immediate availability of masks and personalized assistance from sales personnel. While other distribution channels exist, online retailers continue to lead the market due to their convenience and extensive product offerings. Read Full Report with TOC @ https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/industry-report/disposable-and-reusable-mask-market-2268 Market Segmentation By Type Disposable Masks Surgical Masks N95 Respirators KN95 Masks Other Disposable Masks Reusable Masks Cloth Masks N95 Respirators with replaceable filters PAPR (Powered Air-Purifying Respirator) Masks Other Reusable Masks By Application Personal Industrial Medical By Distribution Channel Online Retailers Offline Retailers Pharmacies Supermarkets/ Hypermarkets By Region North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America Middle East & Africa Scope of the Report: Report Attributes Details Market Size in 2022 USD 1200 Million Revenue Forecast by 2030 USD 2100 Million CAGR 7.5% from 2023 to 2030 Base Year 2022 Forecast Year 2023 to 2030 Key Players DACH Medical Group Holding AG, Honeywell International Inc., Kimberly- Clark Corporation, KOWA Company Ltd., Moldex-Metric, SAS Safety Corp., Shanghai Dasheng, Sinotextiles Corporation Limited, Te Yin Company, The 3M Company, The Gerson Company, Uvex Group Customization Options Customized purchase options are available to meet any research needs. Explore customized purchase options https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/disposable-and-reusable-mask-market-2268/customization-request Regional Analysis The Asia Pacific region dominates the market due to rising respiratory protection and personal hygiene awareness, as well as the presence of key market players, increasing pollution levels, and a large population base; the Asia Pacific region, in particular countries like China and India, is experiencing a significant growth rate in the market. Due to the strict safety regulations put in place by the government, disposable and reusable mask demand is also surging in Europe. A moderate growth rate is also anticipated in the Middle East and Africa region due to the expansion of respiratory protection practices in various industrial sectors. Browse More Reports from Vantage Library: Nanotechnology Drug Delivery Market - Global Industry Assessment & Forecast: https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/industry-report/nanotechnology-drug-delivery-market-0196 Naloxone Market - Global Industry Assessment & Forecast: https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/industry-report/naloxone-market-0530 Multiple Myeloma Market - Global Industry Assessment & Forecast: https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/industry-report/multiple-myeloma-market-2142 Prescription Drugs Market - Global Industry Assessment & Forecast: https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/industry-report/prescription-drugs-market-2088 Multiple Sclerosis Drugs Market - Global Industry Assessment & Forecast: https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/industry-report/multiple-sclerosis-drugs-market-1859 About Vantage Market Research: We, at Vantage Market Research, provide quantified B2B high quality research on more than 20,000 emerging markets, in turn, helping our clients map out constellation of opportunities for their businesses. We, as a competitive intelligence market research and consulting firm provide end to end solutions to our client enterprises to meet their crucial business objectives. Our clientele base spans across 70% of Global Fortune 500 companies. Follow Us on: LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube Contact us Eric Kunz 6218 Georgia Avenue NW Ste 1 - 564 Washington DC 20011-5125 United States Tel: +1 202 380 9727 Email: sales@vantagemarketresearch.com Website: https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/ Latest Vantage Market Research Press Releases Latest Vantage Market Research Blog Vantage Market Research All Reports Blog: MAUI, Hawaii, September 18, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Philanthropist Ed Freedman and his Stable Road Foundation have announced a partnership with global nonprofit GivePower to provide a clean, sustainable water source for the people of Maui affected by last months wildfires. Stable Road Foundation and GivePower have teamed up to deliver an Aquifer 360 Expedition watermaker to the West Lahaina region of Maui, which was devastated by the wildfires. Donated by GivePower and operated by Stable Road Foundation, the Aquifer 360 Expedition watermaker can purify even highly contaminated water and make it safe for drinking. The machine can produce 360 gallons of pure water each day. The Aquifer 360 Expedition will be placed in the Honokohau Valley, which has been without clean water since 2018. It will be set up alongside a river and serve the local community of around 100 people. ROAM Maui, a private shuttle service connecting Maui with major cities on the West Coast, generously offered to transport the Aquifer 360 Expedition from the U.S. mainland for free. "The power of Maui comes from its communityand every community needs clean water," says Ed Freedman, founder of Stable Road Foundation. "Were committed to building a bridge to a bright, sustainable future for Maui, and were proud to have friends like Givepower and ROAM Maui who share our commitment to the island." Stable Road Foundation was founded in 2017 by Freedman to serve underprivileged children and their communities, both on Maui and around the world. The Foundation is currently organizing many relief projects in response to the Maui fires, with more to come soon. GivePower, which specializes in providing clean water and energy to remote communities, has been a partner of Stable Road Foundation for over 5 years. The organizations have collaborated on previous projects in locations such as Kenya, Standing Rock, the Philippines, Nepal, and Colombia. "We are excited to join Ed and the Stable Road Foundation in supporting Maui during this incredibly challenging time," said Michele Magee, President of GivePower. "By addressing the need for clean water quickly, we hope to better secure the health and safety of those affected." Story continues Stable Road Foundation has also launched a fundraiser to raise money for more relief projects on Maui. The Foundation is matching all gifts up to $500,000, enabling supporters to double their impact. To support the fundraiser, please visit https://donate.stableroadfoundation.org/. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918606660/en/ Contacts Grey Horse Communications nick@greyhorse.com Key Insights The projected fair value for QAF is S$0.81 based on Dividend Discount Model With S$0.83 share price, QAF appears to be trading close to its estimated fair value Peers of QAF are currently trading on average at a 20% discount In this article we are going to estimate the intrinsic value of QAF Limited (SGX:Q01) by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to today's value. The Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model is the tool we will apply to do this. Models like these may appear beyond the comprehension of a lay person, but they're fairly easy to follow. We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. If you still have some burning questions about this type of valuation, take a look at the Simply Wall St analysis model. View our latest analysis for QAF The Calculation We have to calculate the value of QAF slightly differently to other stocks because it is a food company. 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. The dividend is expected to grow at an annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 2.0%. We then discount this figure to today's value at a cost of equity of 6.0%. Compared to the current share price of S$0.8, 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) Story continues = S$0.05 / (6.0% 2.0%) = S$0.8 dcf The Assumptions We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at QAF as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 6.0%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.800. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business. SWOT Analysis for QAF Strength Debt is not viewed as a risk. Weakness Earnings declined over the past year. Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Food market. Current share price is above our estimate of fair value. Opportunity Significant insider buying over the past 3 months. Lack of analyst coverage makes it difficult to determine Q01's earnings prospects. Threat Dividends are not covered by earnings and cashflows. Looking Ahead: Although the valuation of a company is important, it 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 QAF, we've put together three important factors you should consider: Risks: Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 3 warning signs with QAF (at least 1 which is significant) , and understanding them should be part of your investment process. Management:Have insiders been ramping up their shares to take advantage of the market's sentiment for Q01'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 Singaporean stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. The crypto world is abuzz with Europes groundbreaking introduction of its first spot Bitcoin exchange-traded fund from Jacobi Asset Management, listed on Euronext Amsterdam a listing that took two years after initial approval in 2021. This development marks a pivotal moment in the continents financial history and sets a precedent for other jurisdictions to potentially follow. In the wake of this, theres a palpable sense of anticipation. As digital assets gain traction, Europes decision underscores a commitment to innovation while addressing the complexities of the crypto market the harbinger of a global shift towards a more inclusive and diversified financial ecosystem. With Hong Kongs renewed ambition to be a major crypto hub and debuting retail crypto trading via licensed exchanges, it may not be long before we see the first spot Bitcoin ETF in Asia, too. Europe paving the digital highway Over the past decade, Europe has witnessed a steady growth and acceptance of digital assets. From the grassroots level of early enthusiasts trading cryptocurrencies to towering financial institutions exploring and adopting blockchain solutions, the continent has championed digital asset innovation. This commitment to progress has set the stage for the current developments. Pivotal regulatory discussions, such as the European Unions deliberations on the Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) regulation, have sculpted the digital financial landscape in Europe. These regulatory strides, buoyed by interest from institutional investors, have culminated in the introduction of the spot Bitcoin ETF, marking a significant leap forward. Inside the spot Bitcoin ETF A spot Bitcoin ETF offers a more appealing route for institutional and professional investors to invest in Bitcoin through a more familiar product structure. The ETF offers a structured and regulated way for investors to tap into Bitcoins potential. Unlike holding Bitcoin directly, which comes with security and storage concerns, the ETF provides a more traditional investment vehicle. Story continues Jacobis ETF is regulated by the Guernsey Financial Services Commission and trades under the ticker BCOIN. What sets Jacobis Spot Bitcoin ETF apart is its stringent regulatory compliance, ensuring investor protection. By bridging the gap between traditional finance and the digital asset world, it showcases the transformative potential of such instruments in the evolving financial landscape. As Europe leads, US remains reluctant Europes introduction of a spot Bitcoin ETF sets it apart as a pioneer, especially when contrasted with the United States, which, despite its dominant crypto market presence, has been reticent in approving a spot Bitcoin ETF. This strategic divergence could recalibrate global financial market dynamics, potentially positioning Europe as a magnet for digital asset investments. The more conservative stance in the U.S., likely rooted in regulatory apprehensions and market fluctuations, accentuates the differences in regulatory visions between the two jurisdictions. It also highlights the challenges and opportunities that digital assets present, emphasizing the need for a nuanced and informed regulatory perspective. Ripple effects beyond Bitcoin The spot Bitcoin ETFs introduction might act as a catalyst its akin to opening a door, inviting other digital assets to step into the spotlight. This pioneering step could spur the development of ETFs for other major cryptocurrencies or even lead to the creation of multi-asset cryptocurrency ETFs. The ETFs debut could also influence investor strategies, potentially driving more institutional investment into the digital asset space. Old giants learning new dance Traditional financial entities, spanning banks to asset managers, now grapple with the undeniable reality of digital assets becoming mainstream. The once clear lines between traditional finance and the world of cryptocurrencies are blurring. As digital assets gain legitimacy, especially with regulatory clarity in certain jurisdictions, the financial sector is undergoing a transformative shift. Were also witnessing an uptick in traditional banks establishing relationships with crypto companies, propelled, in part, by the U.S. bank closures earlier this year. In March, Coinbase partnered with Standard Chartered in Singapore for free fund transfers. Following Silicon Valley Banks failure, Circle announced Cross River as its new banking partner. In Switzerland, Arab Bank reported an increase in U.S. firms from the crypto space seeking banking services after Silvergates collapse. The broader financial sector might witness seismic shifts in asset allocation strategies, advisory services, and financial product portfolios in response to this digital renaissance. The dynamic landscape painted above highlights the adaptability of the financial world. Grayscales effect on regulatory perspectives Grayscales recent court victory over the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission is a testament to the changing tides. The federal appeals courts decision to side with Grayscale, challenging the SECs rejection of their spot Bitcoin ETF, is significant. According to JPMorgan analyst Nikolaos Panigirtzoglou in a recent note: It looks more likely that the SEC would be forced to approve the Spot Bitcoin ETF applications that are still pending from several asset managers, including that from Grayscale. This not only underscores the growing acceptance of digital assets but also highlights the need for regulatory bodies to adapt to the evolving financial landscape. Grayscales landmark victory against the SEC has set a precedent that could catalyze the approval of multiple spot Bitcoin ETFs. This development could inject more competition into the market, potentially lowering fees for investors. Balancing innovation and regulation The introduction of an avant-garde financial instrument like a spot Bitcoin ETF is not devoid of pitfalls. From market volatility to regulatory uncertainties, there are challenges to consider. Vigilant regulatory oversight becomes paramount to anchor market stability and shield investors from potential market manipulations or fraud. As with any investment, education is key. Ensuring that investors are well-informed can prevent speculative bubbles and uninformed investment decisions. Europes Bitcoin ETF introduction signals a new era in finance, where digital assets and traditional finance come together. As Europe treads this new path, the balance between innovation and regulation will be pivotal to ensure a stable and prosperous financial future. The journey has just begun. Collaborative efforts, informed regulations and continuous education will be crucial as Europe navigates the evolving digital asset space. And Grayscales win across the water is another positive sign of progress. whitebalance.oatt / Getty Images Student borrowers had every reason for optimism heading into the summer as schools let out across the country. They went three years without worrying about their monthly obligations, thanks to pandemic-era repayment freezes, and President Biden was making widespread debt cancellation a hallmark of his first term in office. Student Loan Forgiveness: 10 Expenses To Cut From Your Budget When Payments Resume Discover: All of the States That Will Pay Off Your Student Loans But on June 30, the Supreme Court dashed those hopes when it ruled the presidents $400 billion student loan forgiveness program was unconstitutional. Two months later, on Sept. 1, the COVID-19 student loan forbearance ended, interest started accruing once more, and the countrys 43.6 million college borrowers prepared to start making payments on their $1.65 trillion debt again in October. In light of those developments, is there still a chance for widespread college loan forgiveness, and if so, is it even a good idea? GOBankingRates asked the experts. Is There Still a Path to Debt Cancellation? As a 15-year financial advisor and Wall Street veteran who held leadership positions at JP Morgan, Goldman Sachs and Citi, Andrew Lokenauth has both facilitated student loans and advised borrowers on managing them. He sees several paths unlikely as most of them are to widespread student debt forgiveness like the kind President Biden attempted: Congress could pass broad debt cancellation legislation, but that would require a legislative miracle in todays ferociously polarized and closely divided political environment. The president could attempt blanket forgiveness through an executive order, but that would face immediate legal challenges that would eventually make their way to an unsympathetic Supreme Court. The Department of Education could expand existing forgiveness programs. Private and nonprofit debt repayment assistance offerings could expand their reach. Borrowers could refuse payment en masse through widespread debt strikes that pressure policy changes but damage their credit. Story continues Student Loan Forgiveness Backfires: The $35,000 Debt Problem Plaguing Borrowers as Payments Resume Policymakers Could Get Creative They Have in the Past Alternative avenues to widespread loan cancellation could offer borrowers opportunities to use their degrees as a path to debt remission. For instance, tying debt relief to public service or sectors where theres a significant labor shortage could be a win-win for both the economy and borrowers, said Dennis Shirshikov, professor of finance, economics and accounting at the City University of New York and the head of growth at real estate investment site Awning. If you work five years as a teacher in underserved areas, a portion of your student loan gets forgiven. It wouldnt be an entirely new proposition. We have examples like the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF), but it could be expanded and better advertised, said Shirshikov. Imagine combining this with apprenticeship programs in industries facing labor shortages. Its killing two birds with one stone, really. Even If Its Doable, Is Debt Cancellation Worthwhile? Presuming the country could achieve widespread student debt forgiveness, the public debate that preceded the Supreme Courts decision revealed a bitter partisan divide over the merits of even trying. Their Loans, Their Problem: The Argument Against Forgiveness Its understandably difficult to convince millions of non-college Americans that their tax dollars should be used to repay loans so other peoples children can earn degrees that they, themselves, couldnt afford. Others say loan forgiveness disproportionately benefits wealthier households, which tend to borrow more for college. Others argue its unfair to older borrowers, who already paid their debts, and to tomorrows borrowers who will eventually have to. Canceling student debt only benefits current borrowers, said higher education expert Scott Winstead, founder and editor-in-chief of My eLearning World. This is why canceling student debt is only a band-aid on the problem. If you cancel student debt, the next generation of students will find themselves in the exact same spot. Probably worse. The fact is, something needs to be done about the root of the issue. The Wrong Incentive? Winstead has also seen how federally backed borrowing can disincentivize colleges from keeping prices low to stay competitive. The federal governments guarantee of student loans, more than anything else, has contributed to the rising cost of room and board at public colleges and universities by increasing demand for loans, reducing pressure on colleges to keep costs down, and providing a disincentive for colleges to provide affordable housing options, he said. An Investment in Education Can Benefit Borrowers, the Economy and the Country On the flip side of the borrowed coin are the advocates who point out that, like it or not, America is competing against countries that produce skilled and educated innovators by investing in free or low-cost college. Research shows countries with free college have higher-skilled, more productive workforces, said Lokenauth. Better-educated citizens directly boost economic growth and tax revenues, and freer access attracts businesses in need of talent, thereby creating more taxable income. The absence of widespread student debt could also serve as an indirect economic stimulus program. There are economic benefits from freed-up consumer spending previously going to loan payments, said Lokenauth. Businesses gain when workers have income for innovation and entrepreneurship, and governments recoup the cost over time via alumni taxes and overall economic gains. Then, there are the personal benefits that tens of millions of borrowers would enjoy. Society is more equitable and poverty is reduced when fewer are chained to debt, said Lokenauth. Lower student debt enables faster milestones like buying homes and raising families. In the end, remission is still possible, but unlikely and it wont matter in the long term if the solution doesnt address the root of the problem. So, student debt could end up being canceled, said Winstead. But then policymakers need to consider reforms to the student loan system that provide incentives for colleges and universities to keep costs down and provide more affordable housing options. Heather Taylor contributed to the reporting for this article. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Experts: Should Student Loan Debt Be Forgiven? Usually, when one insider buys stock, it might not be a monumental event. But when multiple insiders are buying like they did in the case of Flowtech Fluidpower plc (LON:FLO), that sends out a positive message to the company's shareholders. Although we don't think shareholders should simply follow insider transactions, we would consider it foolish to ignore insider transactions altogether. View our latest analysis for Flowtech Fluidpower The Last 12 Months Of Insider Transactions At Flowtech Fluidpower The Independent Non-Executive Chair (Leave of Absence) Roger McDowell made the biggest insider purchase in the last 12 months. That single transaction was for UK248k worth of shares at a price of UK0.83 each. Even though the purchase was made at a significantly lower price than the recent price (UK0.92), we still think insider buying is a positive. Because it occurred at a lower valuation, it doesn't tell us much about whether insiders might find today's price attractive. While Flowtech Fluidpower insiders bought shares during the last year, they didn't sell. The chart below shows insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year. By clicking on the graph below, you can see the precise details of each insider transaction! Flowtech Fluidpower is not the only stock that insiders are buying. For those who like to find winning investments this free list of growing companies with recent insider purchasing, could be just the ticket. Flowtech Fluidpower Insiders Bought Stock Recently Over the last three months, we've seen significant insider buying at Flowtech Fluidpower. In total, insiders bought UK393k worth of shares in that time, and we didn't record any sales whatsoever. This is a positive in our book as it implies some confidence. Insider Ownership I like to look at how many shares insiders own in a company, to help inform my view of how aligned they are with insiders. We usually like to see fairly high levels of insider ownership. Our data suggests Flowtech Fluidpower insiders own 2.9% of the company, worth about UK1.6m. We prefer to see high levels of insider ownership. Story continues What Might The Insider Transactions At Flowtech Fluidpower Tell Us? It is good to see recent purchasing. We also take confidence from the longer term picture of insider transactions. But we don't feel the same about the fact the company is making losses. We would certainly prefer see higher levels of insider ownership but analysis of the insider transactions suggests that Flowtech Fluidpower insiders are expecting a bright future. While we like knowing what's going on with the insider's ownership and transactions, we make sure to also consider what risks are facing a stock before making any investment decision. Every company has risks, and we've spotted 4 warning signs for Flowtech Fluidpower (of which 1 is a bit unpleasant!) you should know about. Of course Flowtech Fluidpower may not be the best stock to buy. So you may wish to see this free collection of high quality 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 of direct interests only, but not derivative transactions or indirect interests. 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. Fortinet Inc (NASDAQ:FTNT) has recently been in the spotlight, drawing interest from investors and financial analysts due to its robust financial stance. With shares currently priced at $60.46, Fortinet Inc has witnessed a daily loss of 0.92%, marked against a three-month change of -16.53%. A thorough analysis, underlined by the GuruFocus Score Rating, suggests that Fortinet Inc is well-positioned for substantial growth in the near future. Fortinet Inc (FTNT): A Deep Dive into Financial Metrics and Competitive Strengths 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. Fortinet Inc's GF Score components are as follows: 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 high ranks in profitability and growth, and slightly lower ranks in financial strength and momentum, GuruFocus assigned Fortinet Inc the GF Score of 97 out of 100, which signals the highest outperformance potential. Introduction to Fortinet Inc's Business Fortinet Inc, with a market cap of $47.48 billion, is a platform-based cybersecurity vendor with product offerings covering network security, cloud security, zero-trust access, and security operations. The firm derives a majority of its revenue through sales of its subscriptions and support-based business. The California-based firm has more than 500,000 customers across the world. In 2021, the company reported sales of $4.99 billion and an operating margin of 23.5%. Story continues Fortinet Inc (FTNT): A Deep Dive into Financial Metrics and Competitive Strengths Financial Strength Breakdown According to the Financial Strength rating, Fortinet Inc's robust balance sheet exhibits resilience against financial volatility, reflecting prudent management of capital structure. The Interest Coverage ratio for Fortinet Inc stands impressively at 61.06, 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 5.39, Fortinet Inc exhibits a strong defense against financial distress, highlighting its robust financial stability. With a favorable Debt-to-Revenue ratio of 0.2, Fortinet Inc's strategic handling of debt solidifies its financial health. Profitability Rank Breakdown The Profitability Rank shows Fortinet Inc's impressive standing among its peers in generating profit. Fortinet Inc Operating Margin has increased (68.18%) over the past five years, as shown by the following data: 2018: 12.99; 2019: 16.23; 2020: 18.95; 2021: 19.32; 2022: 21.85; . The Piotroski F-Score confirms Fortinet Inc's solid financial situation based on Joseph Piotroski's nine-point scale, which measures a company's profitability, funding and operating efficiency. Growth Rank Breakdown Ranked highly in Growth, Fortinet Inc demonstrates a strong commitment to expanding its business. The company's 3-Year Revenue Growth Rate is 30.4%, which outperforms better than 84.71% of 2413 companies in the Software industry Moreover, Fortinet 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 37.7, and the rate over the past five years is 45.4. This trend accentuates the company's continued capability to drive growth. Fortinet Inc (FTNT): A Deep Dive into Financial Metrics and Competitive Strengths Conclusion Given the company's strong financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GuruFocus Score Rating highlights Fortinet Inc's unparalleled position for potential outperformance. This analysis suggests that Fortinet Inc is a promising investment opportunity for value investors seeking robust growth and financial stability. 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. Rationalstat LLC The India gaming market is expected to approach US$ 3.7 billion by 2030, with an annual growth rate of more than 12%, says RationalStat Wilmington, Delaware, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The India gaming market is expected to approach US$ 3.7 billion by 2030, with an annual growth rate of more than 12% India Gaming Market was valued at US$ 1.5 billion in 2023 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 Overview4 The India gaming market refers to the Indian video game industry, which includes various gaming areas such as gaming hardware, software, esports, game creation, and gaming-related services. This market has seen substantial expansion in recent years and is now one of the world's fastest-growing gaming markets. Internet connectivity advancements, such as the widespread availability of high-speed mobile internet, have made online gaming more accessible and fun. Gamers can quickly download games, play multiplayer battles, and receive updates. According to a deep-dive market assessment by RationalStat, the India gaming market has been analyzed on the basis of market segments, including game type, type, device type, end user and geography/regions (including North India, West & Central India, South India, East India) . 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 India gaming market covers market sizes on the basis of market value (US$/EUR Million) and volume (Units) by various products/services/equipment, demand assessment across the key regions, customer sentiments, price points, cost structures, margin analysis across the value chain, financial assessments, historical and forecast data, key developments across the industry, import-export data, trade overview, components market by leading companies, etc. In addition, the long-term sector and products/services 10-year outlook and its implications on the India gaming market. It also includes the industry's current state Production Levels, Capacity Utilization, Tech quotient, etc. Key information will be manufacturing capacity by country, installed base, import volumes, market size, key players, market size, dynamics, market data, insights, etc. Story continues Request A Customization- https://store.rationalstat.com/store/india-gaming-market/#tab-ux_global_tab India Gaming Market: Segmental and Market Share Analysis On the basis of type, in 2022, the online type sector accounted for the greatest revenue share of roughly 42%. Because to increased internet penetration, the growth of the online casual gaming sector, and the growing popularity of massively multiplayer online games. On the basis of device type, in 2022, the mobile sector had a revenue share of more than 40%, and the console device category is predicted to dominate the market during the forecast period. Report Synopsis Report Metrics Details Base Year 2022 Forecast Period 2023-2030 Base Year Market Size US$ 1.5 billion Market Size Forecast US$ 3.7 billion Growth Rate 12% Key Market Drivers Growing game development industry Increasing government interest in promoting gaming industry Presence of passionate gaming community Companies Profiled Hyperlink Info System Sony Corporation Microsoft Corporation Zensar Technologies Dream Nintendo 99 Games25 Krafton Inc. Nautilus Mobile TCS HData Systems Explore more about this report- https://store.rationalstat.com/store/india-gaming-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 India gaming market include, In April 2023, JetSynthesys launched its new mobile gaming app, FAU-G. FAU-G is a patriotic mobile game that is set in the Indian military. In March 2023, Nazara Technologies launched its new mobile gaming platform, Gamezop. Gamezop is a platform that allows users to play a variety of mobile games, including casual games, multiplayer games, and skill-based games. In January 2023, Dead Space released next year for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, according to Electronic Arts' Crafting the Tension Art Developer Livestream. The FrostbiteTM game engine is being used to rebuild the original sci-fi survival horror game Dead Space. Some of the prominent players and suppliers operating and contributing significantly to the India gaming market growth include Hyperlink InfoSystem, Sony Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, Zensar Technologies, Dream, Nintendo, 99 Games25, Krafton Inc., Nautilus Mobile, TCS, and HData Systems, among others. Get A Free Sample- https://store.rationalstat.com/store/india-gaming-market/#tab-ux_global_tab RationalStat has segmented the India gaming market based on game type, type, device type, end user and region India Gaming Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Units), and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Game Type Real-Time Strategy (RTS) Role-Playing (RPG) Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MABO) Shooter (FPS and TPS) Simulation and Sports Others (Sandbox) India Gaming Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Units), and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Type Offline Online India Gaming Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Units), and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Device Type PC Mobile Browser PC Games Download PC Games Console Xbox PlayStation Nintendo Switch Others India Gaming Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Units), and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by End User Male Female India Gaming Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Units), and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Region North India West & Central India South India East India For more information about this report- https://store.rationalstat.com/store/india-gaming-market/ Key Questions Answered in the Gaming Report: What will be the market value of the India gaming market by 2030? What is the market size of the India gaming market? What are the market drivers of the India gaming market? What are the key trends in the India gaming market? Which is the leading region in the India gaming market? What are the major companies operating in the India gaming market? What are the market shares by key segments in the India gaming 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. Download Key Insights and Market Data - 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 LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest Ofcom said GB News hosts Esther McVey and Philip Davies failed to properly scrutinise the Chancellor when he was interviewed ahead of the Budget in March - ZARA FARRAR/HM TREASURY A GB News programme hosted by two married Conservative MPs broke impartiality rules by failing to represent an appropriately wide range, Ofcom has ruled. The TV channel was found to be in breach of the broadcasting code for the third time this year over a show featuring an interview with Chancellor Jeremy Hunt. Ofcom said Esther McVey and Philip Davies, two sitting Conservatives who present a Saturday morning show, failed to properly scrutinise the Chancellor when he was interviewed ahead of the Budget in March. The broadcast watchdog received 45 complaints about the March 11 episode of Saturday Morning with Esther and Philip. An investigation found that the programme was overwhelmingly reflective of the viewpoints of different strands of opinion within the Conservative Party. It added: There were only very limited references to wider perspectives on UK economic and fiscal policy in the context of the forthcoming budget. For example, no real attention was given anywhere in the programme to the viewpoints of politicians, political parties, organisations or individuals that either, for example, criticised, opposed or put forward policy alternatives to the viewpoints given by the three Conservative politicians. Ms McVey and Mr Davies, who are married, have hosted the GB News weekend programme since 2021 - ZARA FARRAR/HM TREASURY The broadcasting code requires impartiality on matters of major political and industrial controversy and says that an appropriately wide range of significant views must be included and given due weight. Ofcom has the power to impose fines, demand corrections or in extreme cases remove licences for breaching the code, although GB News breach was not seen as serious enough to warrant a penalty. The same people making the same points GB News had argued that it delivered the programme in an interesting and innovative fashion. It added that the show was not just a predictable roster of the same people making the same points as on every other media outlet with gotcha moments provided by aggressive interviewers with pre-scripted questions. Story continues Ms McVey had questioned Mr Hunt over corporation tax rises, saying: Are you happy as the chancellor to preside over that falling in competitive rates? Both presenters had also questioned government spending on HS2. However, Ofcom said that all three MPs had been in broad agreement on the principle that taxes should be cut to boost the economy. Ms McVey and Mr Davies, who are married, have hosted the GB News weekend programme since 2021. GB News has twice previously been found in breach of the broadcasting code for airing comments from presenters and guests about Covid-19 vaccines. The regulator has six other ongoing investigations into the broadcaster. Two are about whether Sir Jacob Rees-Moggs show breached rules on using politicians as presenters, two more are about Ms McVeys and Mr Davies show and two are about whether the broadcaster exercised due impartiality. GB News said it was disappointed by the ruling and that Ofcom had an imprecise definition of due impartiality. A spokesman said: We take compliance seriously, and we believe our programme embraced this. We will reflect on Ofcoms view. 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. Long-established in the Medical Diagnostics & Research industry, Guardant Health Inc (NASDAQ:GH) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. However, it has recently witnessed a daily loss of 2.57%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of -21.54%. 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 Guardant Health Inc. Guardant Health Inc (GH): 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 Guardant Health Inc the GF Score of 65 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential. Guardant Health Inc: A Snapshot Guardant Health, based in Redwood City, California, provides cancer blood tests and analytics for clinical and research use, and the firm maintains research partnerships with large biopharmaceutical companies. The company offers Guardant 360, a blood-based (liquid biopsy) test for treatment selection in advanced stage cancer, and Guardant Omni, a broader gene panel for immuno-oncology research. The company's pipeline includes Guardant Reveal (formerly Lunar-1), for cancer recurrence detection in survivors, and Lunar-2, a liquid biopsy for early detection of cancer in higher-risk individuals, with an initial focus on colorectal cancer. Additionally, Guardant offers research development services. In 2022, the United States accounted for 94% of revenue, and other markets the remaining 6%. Story continues Guardant Health Inc (GH): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential Financial Strength Analysis Guardant Health Inc'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 112 companies in the Medical Diagnostics & Research 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 0.14, 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 0.9 indicates a struggle in handling existing debt levels. The company's debt-to-equity ratio is 4.65, which is worse than 98.37% of 184 companies in the Medical Diagnostics & Research industry. A high debt-to-equity ratio suggests over-reliance on borrowing and vulnerability to market fluctuations. Profitability Analysis Guardant Health Inc's low Profitability rank can also raise warning signals. Guardant Health Inc's Operating Margin has declined over the past five years ((-185,564.00%)), as shown by the following data: 2018: -102.54; 2019: -38.42; 2020: -88.92; 2021: -110.00; 2022: -121.10; . 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 Guardant Health Inc has a strong reputation in the Medical Diagnostics & Research industry, its current financial indicators suggest that it may struggle to maintain its historical performance. 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. Questions are being raised about the trade relationship between U.S. oil and gas companies and Russia following the revelation that equipment worth over $7.1 million from Halliburton Company (NYSE: HAL) has been exported to Russia. This comes despite Halliburton's announcement last year that it had ceased its operations in the country. Halliburton sold its Russian office to local management in September 2022. This move was in response to mounting pressure on American firms to halt trade with Russia after the invasion of Ukraine. However, Russian customs data indicates that Halliburton's subsidiaries exported equipment valued at $5.7 million to its former Russian operation in the six weeks following the sale, The Guardian reports. The exported equipment primarily originated from the U.S. and Singapore, although some also came from countries like the U.K., Belgium, and France. The last recorded shipment from a Halliburton subsidiary was a sealing element priced at $2,939.40, sent from Malaysia to a Russian firm called Sakhalin Energy on October 24, 2022. After a brief hiatus, the import of Halliburton equipment to Russia resumed in December 2022 from companies not directly related to the U.S. multinational. The situation has sparked frustration in Ukraine and highlights the challenges multinational companies face in severing their trade ties and controlling product distribution. Earlier this month, Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ) expressed his concerns to Halliburton and other companies like SLB and Baker Hughes (NYSE: BKR), accusing them of prioritizing profits over standing in solidarity with Ukraine. Halliburton has stated that it was the first major oilfield services company to exit Russia and has fully complied with sanctions. The company emphasized that it no longer conducts operations in Russia. Despite writing off $300 million on the sale of its Russian operation, Halliburton posted a gross profit of $4.052 billion for the 12 months ending June 30, 2023, marking a 63.19% year-on-year increase. Story continues Related Stocks and ETFs: Investors may also be interested in Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE: XOM) and Chevron Corporation (NYSE: CVX), as well as ETFs like the Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE: XLE) and the VanEck Vectors Oil Services ETF (NYSE: OIH). This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors. Don't miss real-time alerts on your stocks - join Benzinga Pro for free! Try the tool that will help you invest smarter, faster, and better. This article Halliburton Under Scrutiny for $7.1M Equipment Trade With Russia, Eyebrows Raised originally appeared on Benzinga.com . 2023 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved. Hong Kong Warns Crypto Firms Against Using Banking Terms Hong Kong Cautions Crypto Companies Against Using Banking Terminology The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has warned the public about cryptocurrency companies that pose as banks and use banking terminology, claiming that such conduct may violate the region's banking rules. According to the existing banking rules, only licenced institutions are permitted to engage in banking or deposit-taking activities in Hong Kong, according to the HKMA. Companies that call themselves "crypto banks," "digital asset banks," or "crypto asset banks" and claim to provide banking services or accounts may be breaking the law, according to the central bank. Individuals or enterprises other than authorized institutions are not permitted to use the term "bank" in their corporate names or descriptions, according to the HKMA. Furthermore, facilitating deposits without the requisite license is a violation of the law. The HKMA warned the public that crypto businesses that are not recognised as banks are not subject to central bank oversight. As a result, funds held in so-called "crypto banks" are not covered by Hong Kong's deposit insurance plan. Hong Kong has recently become more stringent in enforcing licensing restrictions. The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong issued a warning to JPEX, a cryptocurrency exchange, on 15 September for allegedly promoting its products and services in the region without having the necessary license. Following the SFC's warning, JPEX's employees are said to have fled from its exhibit at the Token 2049 event in Singapore. The exchange allegedly raised its withdrawal fees up to 999 USDT to deter users from withdrawing their funds. Let us know what you loved about this article, what could be improved, or share any other feedback by filling out this short form. FILE PHOTO: 2022 World Car Awards at the New York International Auto Show, in New York City By Heekyong Yang SEOUL (Reuters) -Hyundai Motor Co and a union representing its South Korean workforce on Monday sealed a wage deal that will boost annual pay by about 12%, avoiding a strike and production losses at the company's biggest manufacturing base. The union, one of the biggest in South Korea with more than 44,000 members, said on Monday that a total of 58.8% of its voting members had approved the tentative agreement reached last week, while 41.1% rejected it. Unionised workers voted last month for a possible strike over demands for higher wages, a performance bonus and an increase in the mandatory retirement age to 64 from 60. The union demand to increase the retirement age - which would have allowed workers to stay in their jobs, reducing reliance on the pension system, for longer - was not accepted. Workers at Hyundai Motor, the No.3 global automaker by sales with its affiliate Kia Corp, last went on strike in 2018. Unionised workers at Hyundai in South Korea held a four-hour strike for one day in July in support of a general strike, but it was not related to the union's wage negotiations with the management. The United Auto Workers (UAW) last week went on strike against all three Detroit automakers - General Motors Co, Ford Motor Co and Stellantis - at once for the first time. Hyundai Motor Group, which houses Hyundai Motor, Kia, luxury brand Genesis, operates U.S. production sites in Alabama and Georgia. The auto group currently is building electric vehicle and battery plant in Georgia. The labour risks have been there all along, especially in the auto sector, but this UAW strike is unprecedented. If the UAW manages to win major pay raises, it could make workers at foreign automakers, like Hyundai Motor and Kia, that operate non-union plants in the United States, think about the UAW representation, said Lee Jae-il, an analyst at Eugene Investment & Securities. (Reporting by Heekyong Yang; Editing by Andrew Heavens, Jan Harvey and Nick Zieminski) Doucefleur / Getty Images/iStockphoto The federal government measures poverty by comparing a households income to a set poverty threshold or minimum amount of income needed to cover basic needs. While some states have different thresholds to account for the higher cost of living, Texas uses the standard federal poverty guidelines to determine who qualifies for assistance programs. The Nuclear Savings Rule: 10 Frugal Living Tips From the 1950s Era Experts: 4 Safest Places To Keep Your Savings According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the agency in charge of measuring poverty, the poverty threshold for a family of four in Texas is $29,950, or $14,880 for an individual before taxes. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services uses this threshold to determine who is eligible for certain government assistance programs. Under their guidelines, a family of four is considered impoverished if they earn $30,000 or less per year. In January 2023, the HHS took the 2021 Census Bureaus poverty thresholds and adjusted them for price changes between 2021 and 2022, using the consumer price index. For individuals, the income threshold increased from $13,590 in 2022 to the current $14,580 and $27,750 to $30,000 for a family of four. Certain agencies and programs use percentage multiples of the federal poverty level (FPL) to specify set income limits and eligibility requirements for households. For example, many states use 138% of the FPL for Medicaid eligibility. Also: 8 Essentials Youll Be Shocked You Can Buy at Dollar Tree According to the latest data from the Census Bureau, 14% of Texas population of roughly 30 million people are living in poverty. This is higher than the national average of 11.6%, or 37.9 million people. Texas also has a lower median household income compared to the national median. In Texas, the median household income between 2017 and 2021 was $67,321, and $74,580 nationwide in 2022. A study from Smart Asset released earlier this year found that the San Antonio-New Braunfels metro area in Texas required one of the lowest salaries $59,270 after taxes to live comfortably. A household making the median household income could afford to live here, but more expensive areas have a considerably higher cost of living. Business Insider reported that the cost of living in Plano, Texas, was more expensive than the national average. Plano had the highest Cost of Living Index score among 21 Texas cities, scoring 17.9 points higher than the national average of 100. Story continues More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: What Income Is Considered Poverty Level in Texas in 2023? FILE PHOTO: Ather electric scooters are seen outside the showroom in Mumbai By Aditi Shah BENGALURU (Reuters) - Indian electric scooter maker Ather Energy will accelerate new model launches at home and test export markets, its chief executive told Reuters, raising new money to boost growth after the government lowered subsidies for the vehicles. India's electric scooter market is small but growing, with e-models accounting for 5% of total scooter and motorcycle sales in the last fiscal year against a government target of 70% by 2030. But in a surprise move in May, the government, without explanation, slashed cash incentives on the vehicles to a maximum of 15% of the price before taxes from 40% earlier. The next month total e-scooter sales more than halved. Ather's sales also dropped but are rapidly picking up. CEO Tarun Mehta said in an interview that the company is now working on two new models, one of which will be launched six months earlier than originally planned. "The transition to electric vehicles could have been faster if not for the (subsidy) change but even then, there will be no major impact in the mid to long term," he said. "This shift means we are having to fast track product launches and invest more in product development," he added. As part of a long-term growth strategy, Ather is aiming for more than 50% of its sales to come from global markets by the end of the decade, Mehta said. Ather, India's third-largest e-scooter maker after Softbank Group-backed Ola Electric and local TVS Motor, plans to add a scooter designed for use by different members of a family to its current two-model lineup aimed at individual riders, Mehta said. Valued at around $750 million, Ather will raise more money before the end of 2023 to back its growth plans, he said, without giving more details. A source with direct knowledge of Ather's plans said the company is looking to raise an amount similar to the $108 million garnered from existing shareholders Hero MotoCorp and Singapore's sovereign wealth fund GIC in a recent rights issue. Story continues Ather will also pilot sales in one Asian export market in a couple of months. "India will not only be the largest market in the world for electric two-wheelers but also the largest exporter," he said. (This story has been corrected to say end of the decade, not century in paragraph 7) (Reporting by Aditi Shah; Editing by Kirsten Donovan) Key Insights Significantly high institutional ownership implies Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings' stock price is sensitive to their trading actions The top 25 shareholders own 48% of the company Ownership research along with analyst forecasts data help provide a good understanding of opportunities in a stock To get a sense of who is truly in control of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:NCLH), it is important to understand the ownership structure of the business. And the group that holds the biggest piece of the pie are institutions with 62% ownership. In other words, the group stands to gain the most (or lose the most) from their investment into the company. Last weeks 3.4% gain means that institutional investors were on the positive end of the spectrum even as the company has shown strong longer-term trends. The one-year return on investment is currently 12% and last week's gain would have been more than welcomed. Let's delve deeper into each type of owner of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, beginning with the chart below. View our latest analysis for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings? Institutional investors commonly compare their own returns to the returns of a commonly followed index. So they generally do consider buying larger companies that are included in the relevant benchmark index. As you can see, institutional investors have a fair amount of stake in Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. This suggests some credibility amongst professional investors. But we can't rely on that fact alone since institutions make bad investments sometimes, just like everyone does. When multiple institutions own a stock, there's always a risk that they are in a 'crowded trade'. When such a trade goes wrong, multiple parties may compete to sell stock fast. This risk is higher in a company without a history of growth. You can see Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings' historic earnings and revenue below, but keep in mind there's always more to the story. Story continues Investors should note that institutions actually own more than half the company, so they can collectively wield significant power. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is not owned by hedge funds. The Vanguard Group, Inc. is currently the largest shareholder, with 11% of shares outstanding. Capital Research and Management Company is the second largest shareholder owning 8.7% of common stock, and BlackRock, Inc. holds about 5.7% of the company stock. On studying our ownership data, we found that 25 of the top shareholders collectively own less than 50% of the share register, implying that no single individual has a majority interest. Researching institutional ownership is a good way to gauge and filter a stock's expected performance. The same can be achieved by studying analyst sentiments. There are plenty of analysts covering the stock, so it might be worth seeing what they are forecasting, too. Insider Ownership Of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings While the precise definition of an insider can be subjective, almost everyone considers board members to be insiders. Company management run the business, but the CEO will answer to the board, even if he or she is a member of it. 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 Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. insiders own under 1% of the company. Keep in mind that it's a big company, and the insiders own US$49m worth of shares. The absolute value might be more important than the proportional share. It is good to see board members owning shares, but it might be worth checking if those insiders have been buying. General Public Ownership The general public, who are usually individual investors, hold a 37% stake in Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. While this size of ownership may not be enough to sway a policy decision in their favour, they can still make a collective impact on company policies. Next Steps: While it is well worth considering the different groups that own a company, there are other factors that are even more important. Many find it useful to take an in depth look at how a company has performed in the past. You can access this detailed graph of past earnings, revenue and cash flow. Ultimately the future is most important. You can access this free report on analyst forecasts for the company. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. JINGXI, China, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On September 6, the expansion project of Longbang Port, which is located in Jingxi of Baise city, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, was given approval by a check and acceptance task force comprising members from authorities including the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China. The Longbang Port will be open to not only personnel, cargoes and vehicles of China and Vietnam, but expand to cover those of other third-party countries, thereby substantially raising the land port's functionality and capacity. Vietnam's passion fruit arrived at Longbang Port Border Trade Zone The expansion project of the Longbang Port primarily included renovation and expansion of passenger inspection, upgrade and renovation of the Naxi freight transportation channel, etc. The passenger inspection channel received a brand new, five-story, national grade II passenger inspection building, while the Naxi freight transportation channel renovation involved a total of 230,000 square meters in construction area, including commercial zone for citizens near the border, general trade zone, bonded zone, cross-border e-commerce zone, etc., according to the Publicity Department of Jingxi. The Longbang Port is one of Guangxi's three major border ports, one of the most convenient land routes connecting the Indo-China Peninsula to the central and western parts of China, and an international logistics hub of the new western land-sea corridor. In recent years, import and export cargoes coming in and out of Longbang Port have steadily increased each year. In the first half of 2023, the Port facilitated the movement of nearly 6,000 vehicle/times, recorded around 14.14 billion yuan in foreign trade, notched 1.13 billion yuan in mutual imports of merchandise, and realized 740 million yuan in on-site processing of imported product. Image Attachments Links: Story continues Link: https://iop.asianetnews.net/view-attachment?attach-id=442254 Caption: Vietnam's passion fruit arrived at Longbang Port Border Trade Zone Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/jingxis-longbang-port-expansion-project-approved-for-operation-commencement-301930676.html SOURCE The Publicity Department of Jingxi JINGXI, China, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On September 6, the expansion project of Longbang Port, which is located in Jingxi of Baise city, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, was given approval by a check and acceptance task force comprising members from authorities including the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China. The Longbang Port will be open to not only personnel, cargoes and vehicles of China and Vietnam, but expand to cover those of other third-party countries, thereby substantially raising the land port's functionality and capacity. Vietnam's passion fruit arrived at Longbang Port Border Trade Zone (PRNewsfoto/The Publicity Department of Jingxi) The expansion project of the Longbang Port primarily included renovation and expansion of passenger inspection, upgrade and renovation of the Naxi freight transportation channel, etc. The passenger inspection channel received a brand new, five-story, national grade II passenger inspection building, while the Naxi freight transportation channel renovation involved a total of 230,000 square meters in construction area, including commercial zone for citizens near the border, general trade zone, bonded zone, cross-border e-commerce zone, etc., according to the Publicity Department of Jingxi. The Longbang Port is one of Guangxi's three major border ports, one of the most convenient land routes connecting the Indo-China Peninsula to the central and western parts of China, and an international logistics hub of the new western land-sea corridor. In recent years, import and export cargoes coming in and out of Longbang Port have steadily increased each year. In the first half of 2023, the Port facilitated the movement of nearly 6,000 vehicle/times, recorded around 14.14 billion yuan in foreign trade, notched 1.13 billion yuan in mutual imports of merchandise, and realized 740 million yuan in on-site processing of imported product. Image Attachments Links: Story continues Link: https://iop.asianetnews.net/view-attachment?attach-id=442254 Caption: Vietnam's passion fruit arrived at Longbang Port Border Trade Zone Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/jingxis-longbang-port-expansion-project-approved-for-operation-commencement-301930682.html SOURCE The Publicity Department of Jingxi A Joby Aviation Air Taxi is seen outside of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) ahead of their listing in Manhattan, New York City By Valerie Insinna WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Electric aircraft maker Joby Aviation will invest up to $500 million to build a new facility in Dayton, Ohio, where it will mass produce air taxis, it said on Monday. The 140-acre site at Dayton International Airport is set to be the first serial production location for the company, as opposed to the prototypes built at its pilot production line in California. Joby founder JoeBen Bevirt told Reuters that the company is "driving vigorously" to win Federal Aviation Administration certification for its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft so that it can begin commercial passenger service in 2025. Joby intends to begin hiring "immediately" to stand up manufacturing of aircraft components at existing buildings at the Dayton site, Bevirt said. Construction of the new production facility will begin in 2024, with operations to start in 2025. Bevirt declined to comment on initial production rates and how much funding would be immediately allocated to construct the Dayton facility. The state of Ohio and several political organizations have offered up to $325 million in incentives and benefits to develop the Dayton site, Joby said. Eventually, the site could accommodate manufacturing facilities that take up more space than the Pentagon, support 2,000 jobs and the production of 500 aircraft per year, Joby said. Unlike eVTOL competitors like Archer Aviation and Beta Technologies, which intend to sell aircraft directly to airlines and logistics companies, Joby's business model more closely resembles rideshare apps, where customers can request a ride on an air taxi owned and operated by the company. While Joby has been flying full-scale aircraft since 2017, it unveiled its first production-representative prototype in June, which can fit four passengers and a pilot. Bevirt said the company is "ramping up the testing team aggressively" to conduct the thousands of tests and evaluations necessary to attain FAA certification. (Reporting by Valerie Insinna; editing by Timothy Gardner) Key Insights Using the 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity, Jumbo Interactive fair value estimate is AU$21.99 Jumbo Interactive's AU$15.77 share price signals that it might be 28% undervalued Our fair value estimate is 28% higher than Jumbo Interactive's analyst price target of AU$17.20 Today we'll do a simple run through of a valuation method used to estimate the attractiveness of Jumbo Interactive Limited (ASX:JIN) as an investment opportunity by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. This will be done using the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. It may sound complicated, but actually it is quite simple! We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. Anyone interested in learning a bit more about intrinsic value should have a read of the Simply Wall St analysis model. View our latest analysis for Jumbo Interactive The Model We're using the 2-stage growth model, which simply means we take in account two stages of company's growth. In the initial period the company may have a higher growth rate and the second stage is usually assumed to have a stable growth rate. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value: 10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (A$, Millions) AU$47.3m AU$57.0m AU$62.7m AU$73.6m AU$77.9m AU$81.2m AU$84.1m AU$86.7m AU$89.1m AU$91.4m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x2 Analyst x2 Analyst x2 Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Est @ 4.25% Est @ 3.58% Est @ 3.11% Est @ 2.78% Est @ 2.55% Present Value (A$, Millions) Discounted @ 7.3% AU$44.1 AU$49.6 AU$50.8 AU$55.6 AU$54.9 AU$53.4 AU$51.5 AU$49.5 AU$47.5 AU$45.4 ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = AU$502m Story continues The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 2.0%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 7.3%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033 (1 + g) (r g) = AU$91m (1 + 2.0%) (7.3% 2.0%) = AU$1.8b Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= AU$1.8b ( 1 + 7.3%)10= AU$883m The total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is AU$1.4b. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of AU$15.8, the company appears a touch undervalued at a 28% discount to where the stock price trades currently. The assumptions in any calculation have a big impact on the valuation, so it is better to view this as a rough estimate, not precise down to the last cent. dcf The Assumptions We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Jumbo Interactive as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 7.3%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.048. 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 Jumbo Interactive Strength Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry. Currently debt free. Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows. Weakness Earnings growth over the past year is below its 5-year average. Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Hospitality market. Opportunity Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the Australian market. Good value based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value. Threat Revenue is forecast to grow slower than 20% per year. Looking Ahead: Although the valuation of a company is important, it is only one of many factors that you need to assess for 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. If a company grows at a different rate, or if its cost of equity or risk free rate changes sharply, the output can look very different. What is the reason for the share price sitting below the intrinsic value? For Jumbo Interactive, we've compiled three relevant aspects you should look at: Financial Health: Does JIN have a healthy balance sheet? Take a look at our free balance sheet analysis with six simple checks on key factors like leverage and risk. Future Earnings: How does JIN's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered! PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every 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. Company Logo Global Single-Family Housing Construction (Individual Houses) Market Global Single-Family Housing Construction (Individual Houses) Market Dublin, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Single-Family Housing Construction (Individual Houses) Global Market Report 2023" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global single-family housing construction (individual houses) market is on a robust growth trajectory, with experts predicting it will surge from $747.34 billion in 2022 to an impressive $797.20 billion in 2023, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.7%. This remarkable growth comes despite the challenges posed by the Russia-Ukraine war, which disrupted global economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Economic sanctions, commodity price surges, and supply chain disruptions have impacted various sectors worldwide, including housing construction. Single-family housing construction encompasses self-contained residential structures designed for single-family occupancy, featuring single ownership, no shared walls, and private property. These homes can be classified as either permanent or relocatable, with permanent structures constructed using durable materials such as wood, steel, and concrete, designed for long-term use. These materials find application in various sectors, including residential, commercial, and industrial construction. One notable trend shaping the single-family home construction market is the adoption of advanced technologies. Leading companies in the industry are embracing innovations like modular construction, AI, digital twins, blockchain technology, virtual and augmented reality, 4D simulations, and 3D printing to streamline construction processes, reducing both time and cost. A prime example of this technological shift is the launch of South Africa's first 3D printed building using a 3D concrete printer, a collaboration between the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and the University of Johannesburg in January 2023. Story continues Another significant development in the industry occurred in January 2020 when GS Engineering & Construction acquired Danwood S.A., a Poland-based manufacturer of modern prefabricated houses, for $160 million. This strategic move aimed to bring modular construction technologies from the United States and Europe to Asia and Oceania. In terms of regional performance, Asia-Pacific led the single-family housing construction market in 2022, while Europe is expected to exhibit the fastest growth in the coming years. The geographical scope of this market report includes Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, Middle East, and Africa. The report also covers 13 key countries: Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Russia, South Korea, UK, and the USA. One of the primary drivers fueling the growth of the single-family housing construction market is the increasing demand for housing. Housing demand is influenced by factors like personal preferences and financial capacity. As housing serves as both an economic investment and a shelter, there is a growing trend in the construction of single-family homes. For instance, in February 2023, the Census Bureau reported a 13.8% increase in privately-owned housing units authorized by building permits in the USA, reflecting strong demand. The single-family housing construction market also encompasses services such as plumbing, wiring, door and window installations, and finishing. The market value includes related goods sold alongside these services. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the market, covering market characteristics, size, growth, segmentation, competitive landscape, trends, and strategies. Major players in the single-family housing construction market include Red Sea Housing Services Co., Skanska AB, Bouygues Construction SA, ACS Group, Lindal Cedar Homes Inc., Kiewit Corporation, Balfour Beatty plc, Taisei Corporation, System House R & C Co., Ltd., Larsen & Toubro Limited, Algeco Scotsman Inc., Skyline Champion Corporation, Kirby Building Systems LLC, Butler Manufacturing, and Astron Buildings. In conclusion, the global single-family housing construction market is witnessing impressive growth despite global challenges. With technological advancements and rising housing demand driving the industry forward, this market is set to continue its upward trajectory. A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes Red Sea Housing Services Co. Skanska AB Bouygues Construction SA ACS Group Lindal Cedar Homes Inc. Kiewit Corporation Balfour Beatty plc Taisei Corporation System House R & C Co. Ltd. Larsen & Toubro Limited Algeco Scotsman Inc. Skyline Champion Corporation Kirby Building Systems LLC Butler Manufacturing Astron Buildings For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/t6gj8m 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 CONTACT: CONTACT: ResearchAndMarkets.com Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@researchandmarkets.com For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 AGIOS TYCHON, Cyprus, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- After establishing a foothold in Cyprus with its new Limassol office, the globally distributed digital PR and online reputation management (ORM) firm Buzz Dealer will once again take part in this year's IFX Expo at Limassol , the world's largest financial B2B event, held in the city. The event will take place between Sept. 19-21, and Buzz Dealer's booth - booth #52 - will be open to visitors throughout the whole convention. Leading Digital PR Firm Buzz Dealer to Participate in IFX Expo 2023 in Limassol This year, Buzz Dealer plans to send an especially large delegation of professionals, covering every aspect of the services provided by the brand. Attending the event on behalf of Buzz Dealer are CEO and founder Uri Samet, CMO Tzur Rupin, VP of Operations Omer Otmi, VP of Business Development Ron Gilo, SEO account manager Sahar Houri and Head of ORM David Wiseman. Wiseman, a reputed online branding expert and the author of 'A Guide to Online Reputation Management: How to Fortify Your Online Presence', will also hold one-on-one consultation meetings with anyone who is interested to learn more about improving their personal online reputation (registration in advance is highly recommended, limited slots left). "This is Buzz Dealer's third consecutive year at the IFX, and we are excited to meet all of our friends, suppliers, clients, affiliates and future prospects," commented Rupin. "We have a full schedule planned for the expo, including a lot of surprises and up and coming meetings with new potential collaborations. We can't wait to see what is new with the industry, and the IFX at Limassol is exactly the place to do so. Having said that, we are always open to new faces and opportunities, so if you want to get to know us better, feel free to pop in at booth #52 and say hello at any time. Our crew will be waiting!" Special offers for attendees only Buzz Dealer will also be launching a limited-time offer on its select digital PR package, valid during expo days and to attendees only. This exclusive package includes increased exposure on leading financial news outlets, alongside enhanced press coverage to brands and businesses. Story continues This promotion is available alongside Buzz Dealer's signature ORM services, about which attendees can also learn more at the convention. Providing unique solutions for online visibility, Buzz Dealer deploys various techniques for an optimal online reputation, including positive representation online via multiple channels and platforms. "We'll be there to provide the best ORM and digital PR solutions, with the best price on the market," added Rupin, "but that's not all. There are several additional surprises that I can't go into detail about just yet. We have put much effort in our merchandise this year and some really nice prizes are in our raffles. I'm sure that no one will miss our booth this year." About Buzz Dealer Established in 2009 as a pioneer in the digital PR industry, Buzz Dealer today is a globally distributed company, catering to clients from 30 different nations and in multiple languages. The company is widely recognized for the quality of its services such as ORM, search engine optimization (SEO), app store optimization (ASO) and performance marketing (being a Facebook and Google marketing partner). Recently, the company has also ventured into the AI-driven marketing field. With a supplementing office in Tel Aviv, Israel, Buzz Dealer can be contacted via email or telephone for scheduling a preliminary consultation meeting. More details about what the company does can be found on its blog at https://buzzdealer.com/blog/ . Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2213542/Buzz_Dealer_IFX.jpg Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/leading-digital-pr-firm-buzz-dealer-to-participate-in-ifx-expo-2023-in-limassol-301930620.html SOURCE Buzz Dealer Defining entire China-U.S. relationship as competition is serious misjudgment 09:23, September 18, 2023 By Zhong Sheng ( People's Daily In recent years, the United States has always emphasized "competition" when discussing China-U.S. relations, as if competition has become the dominant theme and even the sole focus of the relationship. From the "competitive, collaborative and adversarial" rhetoric to the "invest, align and compete" strategy, competition has become the main tone of U.S. policy towards China. The various measures taken by the United States clearly demonstrate that the so-called "competition" has become synonymous with comprehensive containment, unrestricted suppression, and relentless pressure on China. As two major countries, it is normal for China and the United States to compete in areas such as trade and technology. Such competition should be fair and reasonable, conducted in a benign and regulated manner, with boundaries and prohibited areas. It should not disregard the rules of the market economy and basic principles of international relations. Core interests should not be used as tools for competition or provocative means. The United States, under the guise of competition, has used its national machinery to suppress other countries, attempting to sacrifice the interests of other nations and hinder their development and progress in order to seek its own competitive advantage. This approach completely deviates from the true essence of competition and only exposes a zero-sum mindset and Cold War mentality. The United States shows no intention of engaging in fair competition. It recklessly wields the stick of sanctions, forcefully promotes "decoupling" and so-called "de-risking." Driven by ideological bias, it generalizes the concept of national security, imposes excessive regulations and scrutiny, and builds "small yard, high fence" around its own interests. It fabricates a false narrative of "democracy versus authoritarianism," creates an encirclement against China, coerces other countries to take sides, and incites confrontation, disruption, and undermines peace. It constantly provokes China on core issues such as the latter's political system and territorial sovereignty, seriously violating the basic principles of international relations and damaging the political foundation of China-U.S. relations. The United States employs all means to hinder China, essentially aiming to deprive the Chinese people of their right to choose their own development path, their right to pursue a better life, their right to achieve legitimate development, their right to build national unity, and their right to develop normal relations with other countries. America's perception of competition as the entirety of its relationship with China is fundamentally flawed, and this stems from a directional problem in its understanding of China. The United States consistently portrays China as the "most serious competitor," the "most significant long-term challenge," the "most significant geopolitical challenge," the "most significant systemic challenge," and the "only competitor with both the intention and capability to reshape the international order." It is using its own template of hegemony to mirror China and misjudging China based on the trajectory followed by traditional Western powers. Viewing the world from a zero-sum perspective, one sees division, competition, and conflicts; viewing the world from a perspective of shared destiny, one sees openness, cooperation, and win-win outcomes. The erroneous perceptions and actions of the United States not only disregard the reality of interdependence between China and the United States, but also distort the history of cooperation and mutual benefit between the two countries, dangerously impacting China-U.S. relations. Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong Shyun Tsai recently warned that U.S. policy towards China is becoming a major issue for the world. China and the United States bear a special responsibility for global peace, stability, and development. The world needs an overall stable China-U.S. relationship. The two countries should start from the perspective of shared interests and the future of humanity, and compete in such areas as who can govern their nations better and ensure the well-being of their own people, who can provide greater impetus for global post-pandemic recovery and growth, who can offer more public goods in addressing climate change, who can provide better solutions to regional hotspot issues, and who can make the planet safer, more peaceful, and more prosperous for the 8 billion people living on it, including both Chinese and American citizens. The Earth is vast enough to accommodate the independent development and shared prosperity of both China and the United States. The United States should abandon zero-sum games and Cold War mentality, break free from the logic of competition and confrontation, and work with China in the same direction with a sense of responsibility towards history, the people, and the world, so as to realize mutual respect, peaceful co-existence and win-win cooperation. Only by doing so, both countries can learn from each other, make progress together, shoulder international responsibilities as major countries, and contribute their wisdom and strength to global peace and development. (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) PARIS, September 18, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Regulatory News: Following the devastating floods in Libya last week, TotalEnergies (Paris:TTE) (LSE:TTE) (NYSE:TTE) answered Libya's National Oil Corporation's call for support from the very first hours of the tragedy. The Company mobilized land and air logistical resources to provide emergency aid for the thousands of people affected by the disaster in the Derna region, in the east of the country. As of today, TotalEnergies has shipped nearly 50 tons of essential goods, comprising medical supplies, food parcels including baby food, personal hygiene kits and solar lamps. Further shipments of approximately 50 tons of essential goods are planned in the coming days. This operation is carried out by a dedicated TotalEnergies team, in coordination with the National Oil Corporation and the Red Crescent, with shipments organized by truck from Tripoli and by plane from Paris. TotalEnergies in Libya TotalEnergies has been present in Libya since 1954. In 2022, the Companys production was 79,000 boe/d. This production comes from the offshore Al Jurf field (TotalEnergies, 37.5%), the El Sharara onshore area (TotalEnergies, 15% on block ex-NC 115 and 12% on Block ex-NC 186) and the Waha fields (TotalEnergies, 20.41%). About TotalEnergies TotalEnergies is a global multi-energy company that produces and markets energies: oil and biofuels, natural gas and green gases, renewables and electricity. Our more than 100,000 employees are committed to energy that is ever more affordable, cleaner, more reliable and accessible to as many people as possible. Active in nearly 130 countries, TotalEnergies puts sustainable development in all its dimensions at the heart of its projects and operations to contribute to the well-being of people. @TotalEnergies TotalEnergies TotalEnergies TotalEnergies Cautionary Note The terms "TotalEnergies", "TotalEnergies company" or "Company" in this document are used to designate TotalEnergies SE and the consolidated entities that are directly or indirectly controlled by TotalEnergies SE. Likewise, the words "we", "us" and "our" may also be used to refer to these entities or to their employees. The entities in which TotalEnergies SE directly or indirectly owns a shareholding are separate legal entities. This document may contain forward-looking information and statements that are based on a number of economic data and assumptions made in a given economic, competitive and regulatory environment. They may prove to be inaccurate in the future and are subject to a number of risk factors. Neither TotalEnergies SE nor any of its subsidiaries assumes any obligation to update publicly any forward-looking information or statement, objectives or trends contained in this document whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Information concerning risk factors, that may affect TotalEnergies financial results or activities is provided in the most recent Universal Registration Document, the French-language version of which is filed by TotalEnergies SE with the French securities regulator Autorite des Marches Financiers (AMF), and in the Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Story continues View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918233184/en/ Contacts TotalEnergies Media Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 99 l presse@totalenergies.com l @TotalEnergiesPR Investor Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 46 l ir@totalenergies.com 'They'll walk straight into jail cells': California commits $267M to cracking down on smash-and-grab robberies in retail stores but will it stave off the national 'growing threat'? California has launched an offensive against the brazen criminals causing chaos in the states retail sector injecting $267,118,293 into local law enforcement agencies to help them crack down on smash-and-grab robberies. The funding will be split between 55 local law enforcement agencies across the state with 41 sheriffs and police departments, along with one probation department, being awarded up to $23,663,194 each. Thirteen district attorney offices will also each receive up to $2,050,000 to prevent and investigate organized retail crime and arrest and prosecute more suspects. Don't miss Commercial real estate has outperformed the S&P 500 over 25 years. Here's how to diversify your portfolio without the headache of being a landlord Rich young Americans have lost confidence in the stock market and are betting on these 3 assets instead. Get in now for strong long-term tailwinds A natural way to diversify': Janet Yellen now says Americans should expect a decline in the USD as the world's reserve currency 3 ways you can prepare Enough with these brazen smash-and-grabs, California Gov. Gavin Newsom said said in a statement on Sept. 12. With an unprecedented $267 million investment, Californians will soon see more takedowns, more police, more arrests and more felony prosecutions. When shameless criminals walk out of stores with stolen goods, theyll walk straight into jail cells. Retailers have had enough Many retailers in California have had trouble coping with a recent rise in criminal activity at their locations. Some stores have resorted to securing certain items with padlocks and chains, or theyre locking up high-theft items behind plastic casings, while others are upping their security, resulting in a major inconvenience to honest shoppers and workers alike. But for many retail giants, enough is enough. In recent months, theres been a huge uptick in retailers closing up shop and leaving theft-prone cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles for good landing significant blows to the states economy. Story continues Read more: Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now use $100 to cash in on prime real estate without the headache of being a landlord. Here's how A $100 billion problem The issues plaguing California arent isolated to the Golden State. According to a study from the National Retail Federation (NRF), organized retail crime and theft are growing in both scope and complexity across the U.S. In fact, the NRF estimated in its 2022 security report that theft is costing the retail industry roughly $100 billion. The NRF described theft as a "persistent and growing threat." Many cities have seen retail store closures in recent months with rampant crime being just one of the major factors in this. In addition to theft concerns, retailers across the U.S. are also struggling to regain the same levels of foot traffic that they enjoyed pre-pandemic partly due to rising costs and the sustained popularity of remote work, which has reduced footfall in downtown shopping areas. What to read next This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind. Key Insights Halliburton's estimated fair value is US$44.61 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity With US$42.11 share price, Halliburton appears to be trading close to its estimated fair value Our fair value estimate is 5.4% lower than Halliburton's analyst price target of US$47.14 Does the September share price for Halliburton Company (NYSE:HAL) reflect what it's really worth? Today, we will estimate the stock's intrinsic value by taking the forecast future cash flows of the company and discounting them back to today's value. Our analysis will employ the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Believe it or not, it's not too difficult to follow, as you'll see from our example! Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. Anyone interested in learning a bit more about intrinsic value should have a read of the Simply Wall St analysis model. See our latest analysis for Halliburton Crunching The Numbers We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. In the first stage we need to estimate the cash flows to the business over the next ten years. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value: 10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF ($, Millions) US$2.32b US$2.66b US$2.82b US$3.21b US$3.46b US$3.67b US$3.85b US$4.00b US$4.14b US$4.27b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x9 Analyst x3 Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Est @ 7.80% Est @ 6.10% Est @ 4.92% Est @ 4.09% Est @ 3.51% Est @ 3.10% Present Value ($, Millions) Discounted @ 10% US$2.1k US$2.2k US$2.1k US$2.2k US$2.1k US$2.0k US$1.9k US$1.8k US$1.7k US$1.6k ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = US$20b Story continues After calculating the present value of future cash flows in the initial 10-year period, we need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all future cash flows beyond the first stage. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 2.2%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 10%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033 (1 + g) (r g) = US$4.3b (1 + 2.2%) (10% 2.2%) = US$54b Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= US$54b ( 1 + 10%)10= US$20b The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is US$40b. To get the intrinsic value per share, we divide this by the total number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of US$42.1, the company appears about fair value at a 5.6% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind. dcf Important Assumptions The calculation above is very dependent on two assumptions. The first is the discount rate and the other is the cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Halliburton as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 10%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.622. 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 Halliburton Strength Earnings growth over the past year exceeded its 5-year average. Debt is well covered by earnings and cashflows. Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows. Weakness Earnings growth over the past year underperformed the Energy Services industry. Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Energy Services market. Opportunity Annual earnings are forecast to grow for the next 3 years. Current share price is below our estimate of fair value. Threat Annual earnings are forecast to grow slower than the American market. 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 Halliburton, we've compiled three relevant factors you should consider: Risks: Every company has them, and we've spotted 1 warning sign for Halliburton you should know about. Management:Have insiders been ramping up their shares to take advantage of the market's sentiment for HAL'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. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the NYSE every day. If you want to find the calculation for other stocks just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Key Insights Given the large stake in the stock by institutions, Direct Line Insurance Group's stock price might be vulnerable to their trading decisions The top 9 shareholders own 50% of the company Ownership research along with analyst forecasts data help provide a good understanding of opportunities in a stock Every investor in Direct Line Insurance Group plc (LON:DLG) should be aware of the most powerful shareholder groups. With 80% stake, institutions possess the maximum shares in the company. Put another way, the group faces the maximum upside potential (or downside risk). Last week's UK96m market cap gain would probably be appreciated by institutional investors, especially after a year of 13% losses. Let's take a closer look to see what the different types of shareholders can tell us about Direct Line Insurance Group. View our latest analysis for Direct Line Insurance Group What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Direct Line Insurance Group? 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. Direct Line Insurance Group already has institutions on the share registry. Indeed, they own a respectable stake in the company. This suggests some credibility amongst professional investors. But we can't rely on that fact alone since institutions make bad investments sometimes, just like everyone does. When multiple institutions own a stock, there's always a risk that they are in a 'crowded trade'. When such a trade goes wrong, multiple parties may compete to sell stock fast. This risk is higher in a company without a history of growth. You can see Direct Line Insurance Group's historic earnings and revenue below, but keep in mind there's always more to the story. Story continues Institutional investors own over 50% of the company, so together than can probably strongly influence board decisions. Hedge funds don't have many shares in Direct Line Insurance Group. Looking at our data, we can see that the largest shareholder is FMR LLC with 7.1% of shares outstanding. Meanwhile, the second and third largest shareholders, hold 7.1% and 6.8%, of the shares outstanding, respectively. On further inspection, we found that more than half the company's shares are owned by the top 9 shareholders, suggesting that the interests of the larger shareholders are balanced out to an extent by the smaller ones. Researching institutional ownership is a good way to gauge and filter a stock's expected performance. The same can be achieved by studying analyst sentiments. Quite a few analysts cover the stock, so you could look into forecast growth quite easily. Insider Ownership Of Direct Line Insurance Group While the precise definition of an insider can be subjective, almost everyone considers board members to be insiders. Management ultimately answers to the board. However, it is not uncommon for managers to be executive board members, especially if they are a founder or the CEO. Most consider insider ownership a positive because it can indicate the board is well aligned with other shareholders. However, on some occasions too much power is concentrated within this group. Our data suggests that insiders own under 1% of Direct Line Insurance Group plc in their own names. It's a big company, so even a small proportional interest can create alignment between the board and shareholders. In this case insiders own UK9.3m worth of shares. 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 11% stake in the company, and hence can't easily be ignored. While this size of ownership may not be enough to sway a policy decision in their favour, they can still make a collective impact on company policies. Private Equity Ownership With a stake of 5.6%, private equity firms could influence the Direct Line Insurance Group board. Some might like this, because private equity are sometimes activists who hold management accountable. But other times, private equity is selling out, having taking the company public. Next Steps: It's always worth thinking about the different groups who own shares in a company. But to understand Direct Line Insurance Group better, we need to consider many other factors. Many find it useful to take an in depth look at how a company has performed in the past. You can access this detailed graph of past earnings, revenue and cash flow. If you would prefer discover what analysts are predicting in terms of future growth, do not miss this free report on analyst forecasts. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. fizkes / Getty Images/iStockphoto Its a dangerous time to be a real estate investor scouting out parcels of land. The United States Secret Service Cybercrime Investigations division has observed a sharp increase in reports of real estate fraud associated with vacant and unencumbered property. Criminals are posing as real property owners and through a series of impersonations are negotiating the sale of properties which are vacant or lien free. Warren Buffetts Financial Plan to Tackle Americas Debt: I Can End the Deficit in 5 Minutes Stimulus Update: Child Tax Credit Expansion Still Achievable by End of 2023 Where Issue Currently Stands in Congress Theyre alternately called lot scams, land scams or vacant property frauds, but no matter the name, the end result is always the same. Investors lose their hard-earned savings to criminals who sell them land that doesnt exist or isnt theirs to sell. Heres what you need to know, according to a veteran real estate agent who has seen land scammers bilk victims in the past and can help you protect yourself in the future. What Is a Land Scam? Chris McGuire, founder of Real Estate Exam Ninja, is a property investor, broker and Realtor licensed in several states with 20 years of experience. Hes seen enough vacant land frauds to know exactly how they play out. A lot scam refers to fraudulent schemes where individuals or organizations deceive buyers into purchasing nonexistent or fraudulent land parcels, said McGuire. These scams often prey on unsuspecting buyers desires to invest in real estate or acquire land for various purposes. At the start of 2023, the American Land Title Association (ALTA) issued an advisory echoing the Secret Services assertion that land scams are on the rise, and the bad actors who perpetrate them are getting more sophisticated. Detecting and protecting oneself from such scams requires vigilance and awareness of potential red flags, said McGuire. More: 15 Cheapest, Safest Places To Live in the US The Fingerprints of Fraud McGuire agrees with ALTA and the Secret Service that most land fraud schemes reveal the same telltale warning signs that something is amiss. Its up to you to recognize them before its too late. Story continues If It Sounds Too Good To Be True The most obvious red flag with land scams is hardly unique to real estate fraud. If the price seems too good to be true, it likely is, said McGuire. Scammers often entice buyers with significantly discounted prices to lure them into making hasty decisions without conducting proper due diligence. Everyone knows to be wary of bargains that are beyond their wildest dreams. But people ignore this most blatant warning sign in land deals for the same reason they ignore it when negotiating for cars, used lawnmowers, Faberge eggs and everything else because they want to believe theyre landing the deal of a lifetime. Pressure To Buy Denies You Time To Investigate Both the Secret Service and ALTA agree that criminals who perpetrate land scams typically identify properties that are free of mortgages and liens, pose as owners and fraudulently offer parcels below market value. Then, they turn up the heat on their marks to buy without delay. Buyers should be cautious if pressured to make rushed decisions or if the seller insists on cash payments only, said McGuire. Scammers often create a sense of urgency to prevent buyers from conducting thorough research or seeking legal advice. Legitimate sellers would allow buyers time to review documents and consult professionals before purchasing. Closing Time: Your Last Line of Defense After pressuring buyers to immediately agree to the purchase, its time to sign the final paperwork. This is one of your last opportunities to avoid becoming a victim and warning bells ring during this stage, too. Another red flag is the lack of proper documentation or vague ownership details, said McGuire. Legitimate land transactions involve clear ownership records, valid titles and legal documentation. If the seller is unable or unwilling to provide concrete proof of ownership and necessary paperwork, it strongly indicates a potential scam. Both ALTA and the Secret Service advise that at the time of closing, scammers often refuse to sign documents in person and insist on remote notary signing. They often impersonate a notary and submit falsified documents to the attorney or title company closing the transaction. Protect Yourself and Your Investment The frightening rise in land fraud crimes is enough to make buyers rethink investing in real estate but they dont have to let the criminals win. Heres how to protect yourself from lot fraud scammers who want to sell you land that doesnt exist or isnt theirs to sell. Do Your Homework Scammers pressure investors to buy right away because the more time they have to conduct due diligence, the more likely it is theyll smell a rat. Buyers should conduct thorough research on the property and its ownership to protect themselves, said McGuire. They should verify the sellers identity, review the lands history, and check for any legal disputes or encumbrances on the property. ALTA also recommends requesting an in-person or virtual meeting with the seller and requesting to see their official ID. Surround Yourself With Good People While you should be able to recognize the brightest red flags, the lawyers, agents and other industry insiders around you are more experienced and better qualified to spot the more nuanced warning signs. Hire the best ones you can afford. Engaging the services of a qualified real estate attorney or title company can provide expert guidance and ensure a legitimate transaction, said McGuire. If You Take the Bait If you realize youve fallen victim to a land scam, you still have a few cards to play. However, what you do right now will determine whether you ever see your money again. Gather all evidence related to the transaction, including communication records, payment receipts, and any documentation received, said McGuire. This evidence will be crucial in reporting the scam to local law enforcement authorities and filing a formal complaint. Victims should contact their bank or financial institution to halt any further payments or transactions related to the scam. It is advisable to monitor accounts closely for any unauthorized activity and consider placing fraud alerts on credit reports to safeguard against potential identity theft. Report the scam to relevant consumer protection agencies, such as the local real estate regulatory body or consumer affairs department. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Im a Real Estate Agent: 3 Signs Your Property Deal Might Be a Scam (Bloomberg) -- Microsoft Corp. said its chief product officer is leaving, a significant departure for the companys hardware and Windows divisions. Most Read from Bloomberg Panos Panay will stay long enough to help his replacements transition into the role, Rajesh Jha, executive vice president of the experiences and devices group, announced in an email to employees on Monday. Panay, who had been with Microsoft since 2004, was central to the companys hardware efforts in his role leading the Surface computer division and most recently heading the Windows unit. Pavan Davuluri is being tapped to oversee operating systems, devices and chips related to desktop clients, cloud and artificial intelligence. Yusuf Mehdi will work with computer-maker and retail partnerships, Jha said. Thank you, Panos, for your impact on our products, culture, company, and industry over the past two decades, Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella said in a statement, adding that the company will remain steadfast and convicted in our strategy. Panay served as general manager for Surface when the initial tablets, Microsofts first piece of computer hardware, were introduced in 2012. Since then, hes led an expansion into laptops, desktops and accessories. The devices attracted comparisons to Apple, thanks to glitzy launch events and a focus on detail and high-quality design. More recently, Microsoft has scaled back the Surface operation, axing personnel and cutting slow-selling products. The companys HoloLens mixed-reality goggles project, overseen by Panay since 2022, has also struggled, thanks in part to a delayed US Army contract. The companys commitment to Surface and the mixed-reality business remains unchanged, Jha wrote in his email. Story continues Davuluri, a 20-year Microsoft veteran, is a vice president in Windows and Device engineering and has led silicon and systems integration. Mehdi has been at Microsoft for more than 30 years and first came to prominence as the head of marketing campaigns for Internet Explorer in the 1990s. More recently he has held roles at Xbox, Windows and Bing. (Updated with bio background, starting in fifth paragraph. A previous version of this story corrected executive name spellings and made clear that Panay will stay long enough to help his replacements transition into the role.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. (Bloomberg) -- Former Vice President Mike Pence said the US should ban TikTok, calling it a platform that allowed the Chinese government to obtain data on Americans without their knowledge. Most Read from Bloomberg We ought to be banning TikTok. TikTok is a platform for the Chinese Communist government. They are collecting data on Americans every single day, Pence said Friday in an interview with Bloomberg Television. Young Americans need to know that their privacy is being compromised. Pences comments come before a policy speech he will deliver Monday on China. The relationship between the worlds two largest economies has gained growing attention in the 2024 presidential race. Republican candidates, including Pence, have criticized President Joe Biden, saying he must take a tougher line with Beijing over a number of issues. Pence delivered a jab at one of his rivals for the Republican presidential nomination, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy. I know that one of my competitors, Vivek Ramaswamy in the Republican primary, he had rightly described Tiktok as a digital fentanyl for American youth, and this week he signed up for Tiktok. He said hed met with one of their executives and they changed his mind, Pence said. Well, they are never going to change my mind. The fight over TikTok is just one aspect of the growing tensions between the US and China over their technological ambitions. Biden has limited exports of advanced chipmaking technology over fears it could be used to help Chinas military. China in turn has imposed its own restrictions, including on US chipmaker Micron Technology Inc.s ability to sell products. China is also seeking to ban the use of iPhones for state-owned enterprises a blow to Apple Inc. that would broaden previously announced restrictions. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby this week told reporters that Chinas moves on Apple appeared to be retaliation. Story continues Earlier: Chinas Apple iPhone Ban Appears to Be Retaliation, US Says Huawei Technologies Co. also recently quietly revealed a mobile telephone that uses technology the US has sought to keep out of Beijings hands, questioning the efficacy of US chip restrictions. We led the fight internationally against Huawei among Western nations, and we won that fight, Pence said. If you remember, the UK and other nations were going all in on Huawei, and the United States said its not going to happen. Pence on Friday said Biden had dropped the ball on China. Still, he said the US should not seek to decouple from the country despite the threat it posed. We have to recognize that Chinas the greatest economic and strategic threat of the United States of America, Pence said, but added, I think using access to the most powerful economy in the world, the United States of America, is a means of having China end decades of trade abuses, end intellectual property thefts, stop their military provocations, and end the human rights abuses. Pence said his speech on Monday would be focused on giving China an opportunity to join the family of nations and respect the international rules of the road as I like to say. The other piece of this, I believe in free trade with free nations, Pence said. We ought to be working on a free trade agreement with Japan. We ought to be looking to strengthen trading relationships with free nations across the Asia Pacific. (Updates with additional quotes, details, from sixth paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Ziga Plahutar / Getty Images As the calendar pages turn and millennials approach retirement age, a palpable sense of anxiety looms over this generation. The question on their minds: Will I have enough money to retire comfortably? A recent survey conducted by GOBankingRates sought to shed light on this issue, surveying 1,037 Americans ages 18 and older across the nation between Sept. 5-7. This extensive survey delved into various aspects of retirement preparedness and revealed a mosaic of concerns and expectations. I Retired a Millionaire in My 30s: 10 Stupid Simple Money Tricks To Help You Get Rich See: The Simple, Effective Way To Fortify Your Retirement Mix In this article, we will analyze the survey data and take a deep dive into several key concerns, comparing and contrasting the findings to determine whether millennials worries about running out of money in retirement are truly justified. Millennials were born between 1981 and 1996, according to the Pew Research Center. So as of 2023, the millennial age range is between 27 and 42. Heres a look at how theyre feeling and what the experts think. About Two-Thirds of Millennials Think Theyll Run Out of Money Its no surprise that most millennials still have a long way to go when it comes to retirement, with some millennials still under the age of 30. According to the survey, 62% of those ages 25 to 34 and 67% of those ages 35 to 44 think that theyll run out of money before retirement age. The data shows that millennials are clearly apprehensive about running out of money in retirement. This is a crucial data point that underscores the magnitude of millennial financial worries. Im a Retirement Planning Expert: Here Are 4 Reasons You Shouldnt Retire in Florida If You Have a Budget of Over $5K a Month About Half of Millennials Think Theyll Have an Unexpected Major Medical Expense According to the survey, about 53% of those ages 25 to 34 and 50% of those ages 35 to 44 think that theyll have an unexpected major medical expense in retirement. With the rising cost of medical care, millennials concerns about unexpected medical expenses in retirement are not unwarranted. By acknowledging these potential challenges and taking steps to mitigate them, millennials can better position themselves to navigate the complexities of healthcare costs in retirement. Story continues Almost Half of Millennials Worry That Social Security Will End Before They Retire According to the survey, 41% of those ages 25 to 34 and almost 50% of those ages 35 to 44 think that the Social Security system will end or be cut off completely by the time they retire. These percentages underscore the level of uncertainty and skepticism that millennials hold about the long-term sustainability of this vital social safety net that was signed into law in 1935. Only About One-Tenth of Millennials Have No Financial Worries According to the survey, just a mere 13% of those ages 25 to 34 and almost 10% of those ages 35 to 44 say they arent worried about anything financial in regards to retirement. While the overwhelming majority of millennials grapple with various financial anxieties related to their retirement years, the minority without such worries serve as an inspiration for their peers, showcasing the benefits of diligent financial planning and stability. Expert Opinions About Millennials and Retirement I interviewed several financial experts and professionals and I posed the following question: Should millennials be concerned about running out of money in retirement, why or why not? They each had their own interesting perspective on the matter. Jessica C. McDonald, CFP and founding advisor at Southern Wealth Builders in Birmingham, Alabama, said that as the millennial generation is most affected by student loans, millennials should be very concerned about running out of money. The most valuable asset in the stock market is time. If someone waits until they are debt-free, then they could potentially miss out on 20 years worth of growth of their assets. Plus, more and more millennials are working side hustles, contractor jobs, and other gig-economy jobs, which easily excludes them from being eligible for a company retirement plan. While its great to be in control of your time and work on your own schedule with gig jobs, its not likely theres a plan in place for retirement. As a millennial herself, she tells anyone she can to start saving more in their retirement plans immediately. Khwan Hathai, CFP, financial therapist and founder of Epiphany Financial Therapy in Denver, said that while its natural for millennials to have concerns about depleting their retirement savings, its essential to view this challenge as an opportunity rather than a source of constant anxiety. My focus on behavioral financial planning and money psychology emphasizes the role of mindset in how we plan for and experience retirement. Being concerned about retirement doesnt mean living in perpetual worry. Instead, this concern can serve as a motivational catalyst to engage in robust financial planning. The longer life expectancy for millennials actually gives them the gift of time, an invaluable asset when considering the compounding growth potential of retirement savings. Khwan emphasizes that merely saving isnt enough. Her philosophy is that theres a need for a transformative money mindset shift that allows individuals to recognize their emotional triggers and set life-enriching financial goals. She believes that a balanced perspective can guide millennials toward a retirement that is not just financially secure, but also emotionally fulfilling. Lorenzo Nourfchan, partner and CEO at Northstar Financial Consulting, said that millennials should indeed have a measure of concern about running out of money in retirement, and he speaks from both professional expertise and personal experience. Professionally, Ive seen the evolving landscape of retirement planning. The traditional pension system is fading, and the burden of securing a comfortable retirement increasingly falls on individuals. Millennials face the challenge of funding a potentially longer retirement, given their longer life expectancies. On a personal note, my own journey has taught me the value of early planning. I started saving for retirement in my twenties, taking advantage of compounding interest. This foresight has provided a sense of financial security as I approach retirement age. However, Lorenzo said its not just about early savings. Millennials should also focus on diversifying their investments, seeking professional guidance, and adapting to changing financial circumstances. By doing so, they can address their concerns and work towards a more secure retirement. Methodology: GOBankingRates surveyed 1,037 Americans aged 18 and older from across the country between September 5 and September 7, 2023, asking fifteen different questions: (1) How much money do you currently have saved for retirement?; (2) How much money do you think youll need in retirement?; (3) How much do you spend or expect to spend monthly during your retirement?; (4) If you arent yet retired, how much do you expect to get from Social Security during your retirement?; (5) How much of your retirement do you plan to fund with Social Security?; (6) At what age did you or do you plan to claim Social Security benefits?; (7) Did you or do you think you will have to move to afford your retirement?; (8) Which of the following proposed Social Security solutions do you think would work best to prevent the trust fund from being depleted?; (9) What sources of income will you have in retirement? (Select all that apply); (10) How confident are you that you will have saved enough to afford retirement?; (11) If you retired early, at what age did you retire?; (12) Are you counting on help from your family (financial, housing, long-term care, etc.) to afford retirement?; (13) Do you think retiring around age 65 is financially possible for most Americans?; (14) What worries you financially about retirement? (Select all that apply); and (15) If you got a stimulus check in the last two years, how much of the money did you save for retirement?. GOBankingRates used PureSpectrums survey platform to conduct the poll. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Millennials Are Most Worried About Running Out of Money in Retirement Do Experts Think They Should Be? The new To Treasure Now and Forever campaign celebrates the beauty, uniqueness, and versatility of natural diamonds LONDON, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Lily James poses for the 2023/2024 campaign as part of her global ambassadorship with the Natural Diamond Council. Shot in New York City by photographer Cass Bird, the shoot comprises four looks styled with a variety of natural diamonds to represent a few of life's most brilliant moments. Whether paired with casual streetwear, power tailoring, sophisticated evening wear, or full-blown glamour for a big night out, the campaign celebrates the versatility of natural diamonds. Photographed by Cass Bird, image courtesy of the Natural Diamond Council "The talent, integrity, and authenticity Lily brings to the table are the perfect attributes to represent natural diamonds," says David Kellie, CEO of Natural Diamond Council. "It was incredible visiting Botswana for the first time with her last year and now reconnecting in New York to shoot this campaign that will continue to support so many of our retail partners is truly exciting." Ahead of her return to London's West End in Penelope Skinner's Lyonesse, in which she will star alongside Kristin Scott Thomas, Lily sat down with Only Natural Diamonds to reflect on her busy year, her trip to Botswana with the NDC and, of course, the MET Gala. "After visiting Botswana and seeing the positive impact the diamond mining industry has on the surrounding communities and ecosystems, and learning about what goes into sustaining them, it made me want to be even more intentional with the diamond jewellery I wear," shared James, who has served as NDC Global Ambassador since September 2022. "While my own approach to diamond jewellery is continually evolving, I love to go full out on the red carpet but also paring my diamond jewellery down and wearing it with jeans. For me, wearing natural diamonds is about celebrating the sentiment behind who gave me the diamonds and the special moment I think of when I wear them. It was so special to launch my NDC ambassadorship with the To Treasure Now and Forever campaign in my hometown of London. Now, to have the chance to shoot this new campaign in New York City, my home away from home, is a dream come true." Story continues The campaign will be amplified by the NDC's global retail partners including luxury independent retailers such as Razny, Hamilton Jewelers and London Jewelers in the US, Malabar in the UAE, and Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group in China. To take a closer look at the natural diamond jewellery featured throughout the campaign visit NaturalDiamonds.com. Additional image and video assets are available here and access to the full behind the scenes video can be found here, courtesy of NDC. The campaign was styled by Rebecca Corbin-Murray. Hair by Halley Brisker at The Wall Group. Make-up by Valeria Ferreira at The Wall Group. ABOUT NATURAL DIAMOND COUNCIL The Natural Diamond Council (NDC) is here to advance the integrity of the modern diamond jewellery industry while educating, inspiring, and protecting consumers. Our Only Natural Diamonds platform is the authoritative publisher on all things natural diamonds including celebrities and pop culture, epic diamonds and jewellery trends, engagements and weddings, and diamond buying guides. In addition, we provide marketing, promotional, and educational services to brands, designers, and retailers, encouraging them to also promote the values of natural diamonds and support our Mission. The NDC is a global organisation whose members' operations span four continents and ten countries including Canada, South Africa, and Botswana. Their operations support the livelihood of 10 million industry employees and their families around the world. The NDC operates out of offices in New York, Shanghai, Mumbai, and Antwerp, with satellite teams in the UK and France. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211435/Natural_Diamond_Council.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211436/Natural_Diamond_Council.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211440/Natural_Diamond_Council.jpg Photographed by Cass Bird, image courtesy of the Natural Diamond Council Photographed by Cass Bird, image courtesy of the Natural Diamond Council Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/natural-diamond-council-launches-newest-global-campaign-with-ambassador-lily-james-301928365.html Newgame SA Geneva, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NewGAMe provides update on regulatory filings required to increase GAM shareholding to 20-30% Geneva, 18 September 2023 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 that it has submitted all regulatory filings to be authorized to hold between 20% and 30% of GAM. The investor group has submitted applications to be authorized to hold between 20 and 30% of the issued share capital of GAM to the following authorities: - Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority FINMA; - United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority; - Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (Luxembourg); - Banca dItalia; - Central Bank of Ireland. NewGAMe expects a decision from the relevant regulators in the near future. *** Media contacts FinElk newgam@finelk.eu info@newgam.ch www.newgam.ch Investor contacts Okapi Partners LLC North America: +1 212 297 0720 Europe: + 44 7597 370570 info@okapipartners.com About NewGAMe NewGAMe SA is a Geneva-based company owned by a number of investors with experience in the financial sector. It is controlled by Rock Investment, a French-incorporated entity that is owned by NJJ Holding, the personal holding company of Xavier Niel. Albert Saporta, a hedge fund industry veteran with 40 years experience in global financial markets, serves as the director of NewGAMe SA. About Bruellan Bruellan SA is an independent provider of global wealth management solutions. The company was founded in 1991 and is located in Geneva, Lausanne, Crans-Montana and Verbier. https://www.bruellan.ch/ NXP Semiconductor's 148-acre Austin headquarters at 6501 W. William Cannon Drive would receive upgrades as part of Project Live Oak. Semiconductor giant NXP and the city of Austin have revised a potential incentive deal worth just over $1 million, to include child care funding for NXP employees, ahead of the City Council's vote on the agreement. NXP, which has 2,600 employees in Austin, is pursuing a Chapter 380 incentive agreement to help fund a $290.8 million effort dubbed Project Live Oak, according to documents posted on a city web page, speakupaustin.org. The plans call for upgrades to the manufacturing lines at the company's two existing Central Texas locations, an Oak Hill property on West William Cannon Drive that employs 1,600 people and a facility on Ed Bluestein Boulevard in East Austin that employs 1,062. The plans say the company would retain 53 jobs between the two facilities that would otherwise be cut if the company does not modernize its semiconductor manufacturing equipment. Last Thursday, during a public hearing for the deal held during a City Council meeting, Mayor Kirk Watson outlined changes to the proposed deal. The council is expected to vote on the incentive package during its meeting Thursday. The revisions followed discussion during the City Council's Tuesday work session, where Council Member Vanessa Fuentes raised questions about the possibility of increasing child care arrangements or subsidies for NXP employees. During the meeting, Watson agreed that the council would be interested in seeing an investment in child care services, saying it was the "No. 2 expense" for many households in the community. "We can actually utilize these 380 agreements in a way that is new and different and would help in an area of great concern and interest in the city of Austin," Watson said. The new deal has yet to be posted online, but Morgan Messick, acting assistant director of the city's Economic Development Department, confirmed to the American-Statesman on Friday that the potential deal now includes a lower base award and a new category dedicated to child care. She also said the revised award agreement will be available to the public before Thursday's City Council meeting. Story continues Chris Jensen, executive vice president and chief human resources officer at NXP, said the agreement would enhance NXP's existing child care resources with services including discounts for child care centers, free membership to a service that helps find before- and after-school programs, and day care programs and tutoring assistants for K-12 students. During the public hearing, more than a dozen NXP employees spoke in support of the project and the incentive deal, and two speakers from community groups raised concerns about the deal. Another public hearing will occur at Thursday's council meeting ahead of the vote, and residents were able to comment online at speakupaustin.org through last Friday. What does the Chapter 380 deal say now? The proposed deal largely remains the same, with NXP eligible for as much as $1.026 million in tax reimbursements over five years if it meets certain requirements, according to city documents. Under the original deal, NXP would be eligible to be reimbursed by the city for up to 65% of property taxes in a five-year period, according to city documents. This could include a base award, 40% of the property taxes in that period, estimated to be about $631,589, as part of the deal. The company could receive additional reimbursement if it creates an employee transition and job training program, if it hires economically disadvantaged employees, and if it meets certain sustainable business practices. The new proposal adjusts the percentages. Under it, the base award would amount to a 35% reimbursement, worth, $552,640. It would also add a 5% reimbursement category if the company adds needs-based child care assistance for its employees. The new proposal would adjust an existing 10% reimbursement category for a workforce training and transition fund to include child care. The new category, which remains at 10%, would divide the funds evenly between workforce training and child care assistance for employees. As semiconductor giant NXP pursues an incentive package through the city of Austin, the city and NXP have revised the deal to include child care. NXP seeks federal CHIPS funding NXP is also pursuing money through recent federal legislation, known as the CHIPS and Science Act, that dedicated billions of dollars to encourage investment in the U.S. semiconductor industry in part through tax credits and scientific research. Companies pursuing CHIPS Act funding are required to have a local or state level funding match, such as a Chapter 380 agreement. Last Thursday, Jennifer Waumett, president of NXP USA, said the incentive deal could help bring CHIPS funding to Austin and said both city and federal incentives are an important factor for NXP when deciding whether to invest in the U.S instead of other global locations. The pursuit of the Chapter 380 deal follows last year's decision by the Austin school district's board to reject the company for a separate type of incentive agreement under the now-expired Chapter 313 program. The company sought $140.5 million in savings on school district taxes for 10 years, according to an incentive application at the time. That application proposed a larger project that could have added a new semiconductor wafer plant, additional buildings and 350 jobs at the company's Ed Bluestein facility. What else was said during the public hearing? Including NXP executives, more than a dozen NXP employees spoke in support of the deal, making up the vast majority of comments during last Thursday's public hearing. The employees highlighted a variety of topics, including NXPs technology, their own careers, the companys work in the community and their ability to raise families in the Austin area. Other attendees at the hearing raised questions about the incentive deal. Fannie Akingbalam, a member of Central Texas Interfaith, said the group generally does not like taxpayer subsidies for private corporations. She said if any such deals do go through, the jobs should pay a city living wage with benefits, have a career ladder, primarily hire locally and include strong worker protections. Akingbalam said the group also opposed NXP's Chapter 313 application last year, as it does with all school district tax incentives. "We have not opposed city and county tax abatements if they have lived up to these high community standards," Akingbalam said, adding that the group will speak again before the final vote. "We will be analyzing this application over the next few days to assess whether this proposal does so." Bill Bunch, a member of the Austin-based environmental group Save Our Springs Alliance, said the group is concerned about subsidies in the Barton Creek watershed because of its vulnerability to development. NXP's Oak Hill area facility is in this area; however, he said the lack of footprint expansion at this existing facility seemed reasonable. Bunch said the group would like to see upgrades to water quality runoff controls at the facility, which in age predates water quality standards. Bunch added that the company said it would improve water use efficiency in the water-intensive chipmaking process. The deal has gained support from both the Austin Chamber of Commerce and Opportunity Austin, an economic development organization with partnerships throughout the region. The organizations were not present last Thursday, but last week they urged residents and stakeholders via email to leave comments with City Council members in support of the project. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Austin council pushes to add child care to potential NXP incentive deal Oxurion NV EUR 3.5 Million in Unconditional Funding Allowing Company to Achieve Topline Data from KALAHARI Trial Leuven, BELGIUM, Boston, MA, US September 18, 2023 8 am CET Oxurion NV (Euronext Brussels: OXUR), a biopharmaceutical company developing next-generation standard of care ophthalmic therapies, with clinical stage assets in vascular retinal disorders, has announced the completion of Tranche 5 of funding under the Subscription Agreement with Atlas Special Opportunities LLC (Atlas). On September 15, 2023, the Company issued 40 convertible bonds with a value of EUR 1 million to Atlas. This Tranche is the first installment of the EUR 3.5 million in unconditional funding agreed with Atlas allowing the Company to reach the topline data of the Phase 2, Part B of the KALAHARI trial, which is expected by the end of 2023. Under the terms of the amended Subscription Agreement, Atlas has waived the market capitalization and liquidity conditions for up to EUR 3.5 million in mandatorily convertible bonds to be issued before the topline data is received by the end of 2023. Under the Funding Program, Atlas has committed to 20 million in funding over a 24-month period, of which it has now subscribed to EUR 9 million (leaving a remainder of EUR 11 million of which the conditions are waived for EUR 2.5 million). Tom Graney, CEO of Oxurion, said: Given Atlass steadfast support, Oxurion is confident of reaching the topline data from the KALAHARI trial without the need for additional capital. This trial is evaluating THR-149 versus market leader aflibercept, and Oxurion hopes to demonstrate the superior efficacy of THR-149 in treating the up to 50% of patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) for whom the current standard of care is suboptimal. We look forward to sharing the topline results from this trial as DME remains the leading cause of blindness for working-aged people and THR-149 holds the promise of addressing this large unmet need. Story continues About Oxurion Oxurion (Euronext Brussels: OXUR) is a biopharmaceutical company developing next generation standard of care ophthalmic therapies, which are designed to improve and better preserve vision in patients with retinal disorders including diabetic macular edema (DME), the leading cause of vision loss in working-age people, as well as other conditions. Oxurion intends to play an important role in the treatment of retinal disorders, including the successful development of THR-149, its novel therapeutic for the treatment of DME. THR-149 is a potent plasma kallikrein inhibitor being developed as a potential new standard of care for the up to 50% of DME patients showing suboptimal response to anti-VEGF therapy. Oxurion is headquartered in Leuven, Belgium, with corporate operations in Boston, MA. More information is available at www.oxurion.com. Important information about forward-looking statements Certain statements in this press release may be considered forward-looking. Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, and, accordingly, entail and are influenced by various risks and uncertainties. The Company therefore cannot provide any assurance that such forward-looking statements will materialize and does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or any other reason. Additional information concerning risks and uncertainties affecting the business and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement is contained in the Companys Annual Report. This press release does not constitute an offer or invitation for the sale or purchase of securities or assets of Oxurion in any jurisdiction. No securities of Oxurion may be offered or sold within the United States without registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or in compliance with an exemption therefrom, and in accordance with any applicable U.S. state securities laws. For further information please contact: Oxurion NV Tom Graney Chief Executive Officer Tel: +32 16 75 13 10 tom.graney@oxurion.com Michael Dillen Chief Business Officer Tel: +32 16 75 13 10 michael.dillen@oxurion.com U S Conway Communications Mary T. Conway mtconway@conwaycommsir.com Attachment The Ozempic maker, Novo Nordisk, is boosting Denmark's economy. Getty Images The Ozempic maker, Novo Nordisk, is Europe's second-largest company by market capitalization. It's also boosting Denmark's economy all on its own. Denmark's GDP grew 1.7% in the first half of this year but might've contracted if not for pharma. The blockbuster drug Ozempic is such a hit that it's helped its maker, Novo Nordisk, become one of the highest-profile companies in Europe. Novo Nordisk's share price was up over 40% this year as of Friday's close, taking its market capitalization to 2.6 trillion Danish kroner, or $379 billion. In comparison, the market cap of LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton Europe's most valuable company now was roughly $400 billion. Novo Nordisk's stunning stock rise this year has come on the back of the drugs Ozempic and Wegovy. The two products have been big hits in the US for their treatment of obesity; the Food and Drug Administration approved Wegovy's use for that purpose in 2021, and the diabetes drug Ozempic contains the same active ingredient, semaglutide. Elon Musk and Amy Schumer are among those who've said they've used the products. The drugs boosted Novo Nordisk's earnings in the first half of 2023. The company posted 107.7 billion Danish kroner in revenue for the period about 30% higher than the same period a year ago. Not only that, but Novo Nordisk has even been propping up Denmark's economy. Denmark's gross domestic product grew by 1.7% in the first half of 2023 from a year ago, according to official statistics all thanks to the pharmaceutical sector. The economy would've contracted by 0.3% if it weren't for the pharma industry, the country's statistics department said on August 31. "If it wasn't for Novo Nordisk, there wouldn't have been any growth in the first six months of the year, Las Olsen, the chief economist at Danske Bank, told AFP on September 6. Jonas Petersen, an analyst at Denmark's statistics department, further told AFP the trend was "changing the picture of the economy." Story continues Novo Nordisk is also increasing hiring and has been bringing in billions of US dollars from its drug exports to the US. The company's share price closed down 2.4% at 666.50 Danish kroner on Friday, leaving the stock up 42% this year. Denmark's statistics department and Danske Bank's Olsen didn't immediately respond to requests for comment from Insider sent outside regular business hours. Correction: September 18, 2023 An earlier version of this story imprecisely referred to Ozempic. It is a diabetes drug that has been used to treat obesity; it isn't primarily a weight-loss drug. The story also misstated the market capitalization of Novo Nordisk. At the time of publication, it was $379 billion, not $328 billion. Read the original article on Business Insider If we want to find a potential multi-bagger, often there are underlying trends that can provide clues. One common approach is to try and find a company with returns on capital employed (ROCE) that are increasing, in conjunction with a growing amount 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. However, after investigating Kim Hin Joo (Malaysia) Berhad (KLSE:KHJB), we don't think it's current trends fit the mold of a multi-bagger. What Is Return On Capital Employed (ROCE)? For those that aren't sure what ROCE is, it measures the amount of pre-tax profits a company can generate from the capital employed in its business. Analysts use this formula to calculate it for Kim Hin Joo (Malaysia) Berhad: Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) (Total Assets - Current Liabilities) 0.037 = RM3.2m (RM104m - RM17m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to June 2023). Therefore, Kim Hin Joo (Malaysia) Berhad has an ROCE of 3.7%. Ultimately, that's a low return and it under-performs the Specialty Retail industry average of 15%. Check out our latest analysis for Kim Hin Joo (Malaysia) Berhad roce While the past is not representative of the future, it can be helpful to know how a company has performed historically, which is why we have this chart above. If you're interested in investigating Kim Hin Joo (Malaysia) Berhad's past further, check out this free graph of past earnings, revenue and cash flow. What The Trend Of ROCE Can Tell Us In terms of Kim Hin Joo (Malaysia) Berhad's historical ROCE movements, the trend isn't fantastic. To be more specific, ROCE has fallen from 48% over the last five years. On the other hand, the company has been employing more capital without a corresponding improvement in sales in the last year, which could suggest these investments are longer term plays. It may take some time before the company starts to see any change in earnings from these investments. Story continues On a related note, Kim Hin Joo (Malaysia) Berhad has decreased its current liabilities to 17% of total assets. So we could link some of this to the decrease in ROCE. What's more, this can reduce some aspects of risk to the business because now the company's suppliers or short-term creditors are funding less of its operations. Since the business is basically funding more of its operations with it's own money, you could argue this has made the business less efficient at generating ROCE. The Bottom Line To conclude, we've found that Kim Hin Joo (Malaysia) Berhad is reinvesting in the business, but returns have been falling. And with the stock having returned a mere 3.3% in the last three years to shareholders, you could argue that they're aware of these lackluster trends. Therefore, if you're looking for a multi-bagger, we'd propose looking at other options. If you'd like to know more about Kim Hin Joo (Malaysia) Berhad, we've spotted 4 warning signs, and 1 of them is concerning. While Kim Hin Joo (Malaysia) Berhad may not currently earn the highest returns, we've compiled a list of companies that currently earn more than 25% return on equity. Check out this free list 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. You've seen the hulking structures straddling Interstate 95 and other highways in Rhode Island: the toll gantries that have caused the state so much grief. Since almost the moment they were turned on, the highly visible tolls have been at the center of a long-running lawsuit that has been at times tough to follow. It prompted one What and Why RI reader to write in with a string of questions, including what is their status, what did they cost, how much money was collected from the tolls, what was the money used for, and what happened with the lawsuit? Let's break it down. A truck passes under a toll gantry on I-95 in South County. The gantries have been turned off since September 2022, when a federal judge ruled that Rhode Island's truck-toll system is unconstitutional. What is the status of the tolls in RI? All of Rhode Island's toll gantries have been turned off since September 2022. In fact, the state's only active toll is on the Pell Bridge between Jamestown and Newport. What happened with the truckers union case against the state of Rhode Island? A little bit of backstory on the case before we get to the current status of it. In 2018, Rhode Island turned on two newly built tolls on I-95 that only charged tractor-trailers, as state law prohibited levying the tolls on passenger vehicles. Rhode Island Department of Transportation Director Peter Alviti Jr. said in 2018 that having only tractor-trailers pay the toll made sense, because studies show they do the most damage to roadways. Former Gov. Gina Raimondo also supported the plan and had made improving Rhode Islands roadways one of the main tenets of her time in office. The money from tolls was a key part in paying for the improvements. What and Why RI: What's the story behind the 'Gnomes' mural on I-95? We tracked down the artist to ask But the American Trucking Association, among others, took issue with only tractor-trailers having to pay tolls. They filed a lawsuit shortly after the tolls were turned on, claiming it discriminated against out-of-state trucking companies, violating the commerce clause of the U.S. Constitution. Fast-forward through several years of court fights to September 2022, when a federal judge sided with the trucking industry and ordered that the tolls be turned off. Story continues "Because RhodeWorks fails to fairly apportion its tolls among bridge users based on a fair approximation of their use of the bridges, was enacted with a discriminatory purpose, and is discriminatory in effect, the statutes tolling regime is unconstitutional under the dormant Commerce Clause of the United States Constitution," U.S. District Judge William E. Smith wrote. But thats not where it ended. Rhode Island is in the process of appealing the decision, filing a brief in U.S District Court in February asking for oral arguments. The motion argues that the court transformed the dormant Commerce Clause into a mechanism for federal courts to displace the reasoned judgments of state legislatures seeking to solve complex infrastructure problems. Where did the money go when they were active? Cameras and radar sensors populate the tolling gantry near the west end of the Washington Bridge on Route 195 in Providence. During the period when the tolls were on, the state collected about $101 million. That money could only be used on RIDOT transportation projects. The majority of the money has been spent, according to reporting by WJAR. A RIDOT spokesperson confirmed the money was spent on the reconstruction of bridges where there are toll gantries. How much did the state spend to build the toll gantries? In 2017, the state signed a $68.9-million contract with Kapsch Traffic Com IVHS Inc. to design, construct, operate and maintain a 14-gantry toll system. That number broke down to $30.6 million to build the gantries and roadside equipment, $11.2 million for communications infrastructure, computer hardware and software, and $27.1 million for operation and maintenance over 10 years. What and Why RI: It was called a blight on Rhode Island and then torched. Here's the story of Scalloptown. However, the $68.9 million figure was based on building 14 gantries two of which were not yet built at the time of the court ruling and on maintenance costs that, theoretically, havent been needed for the last year. So far, Kapsch has earned $48.1 million on its toll contract, according to a RIDOT spokesperson. That contract remains open, and there is no ongoing cost. In addition the cost of setting up the tolls, its worth also factoring in the cost to defend the tolls. As of May 2022, the state had paid outside legal counsel Adler Pollock & Sheehan PC $7.1 million to defend the state against the truckers' lawsuit, a figure thats only gone up since then. According to a RIDOT spokesperson, the state has paid $9.4 million in legal fees to date. Together, the cost of the tolls has eaten up a large portion of the money they generated. How much was the state hoping to make on this? If it had gone to plan, the state predicted the tolls would have generated about $40 million annually. What is happening with the toll equipment? All of the truck toll equipment, including the cameras, gantries, readers and everything else, has remained in place, according to RIDOT. If the state were to win their appeal, a RIDOT spokesperson said that the state does not yet have an estimate on how long it would take to turn the tolls back on. What and Why RI is a weekly feature by The Providence Journal to explore our readers' curiosity. If you have a question about Rhode Island, big or small, email it to klandeck@gannett.com. She loves a good question. Patrick Anderson's years of reporting on this topic contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: RI truck tolls are at center of a long-running lawsuit. What to know cattle in a field Sainsburys has begun culling cattle for beef months earlier than usual as part of efforts to reduce carbon emissions and hit net zero targets. The supermarket said improved efficiency on its farms meant that its new range of Taste the Difference Aberdeen Angus beef reached the optimal point for consumption sooner than other livestock. It will slaughter cattle 20pc earlier than the industry standard, which is usually between 20 and 24 months. Sainsburys said the new range, which includes 12pc and 5pc fat mince, 30-day rib eye steak and a 30-day beef roasting joint, had a carbon footprint around a quarter lower than the standard range. The items are being sold at 60 stores before a further expansion across the UK. Measures such as strictly monitored feed and living conditions mean that healthy calves are raised in the most efficient way possible, needing less time and energy to grow, in turn emitting fewer harmful gases, it said. In February, Sainsburys ditched plastic tray packaging from its range of beef mince products, and started vacuum packing them instead - Heathcliff O'Malley Sainsburys said it had been developing the new range for a decade, with production having taken five years. The supermarket is pushing to reach net zero across its operations by 2035. Beef production results in higher emissions of greenhouse gases than other meat such as pork and poultry because of the high level of methane cows produce. Ruth Cranston, director of corporate responsibility and sustainability at Sainsburys, said: No one else has been able to produce a lower carbon beef range on this scale and we hope this launch will set a leadership example of what is possible in the industry. It is the latest in a series of moves by the supermarket to try and make its beef products more environmentally friendly. In February, it ditched plastic packaging from its range of beef mince products, and started vacuum packing them instead. However, this sparked a backlash from customers who took to social media to criticise the change. Some shoppers called the meat unappetising and disgusting, while one reviewer said it resembled a kidney. In July, Sainsburys removed plastic trays from its steaks, replacing them with a cardboard alternative. 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. Sophos Inc. Sophos Details the Story of One Scammed Victim in the Trading Pool Who Lost $22,000 in One Week OXFORD, United Kingdom, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sophos, a global leader in innovating and delivering cybersecurity as a service, today released findings on a major sha zhu pan (pig butchering) operation utilizing fake trading pools of cryptocurrency (liquidity pools) to steal more than $1 million. The report, Latest Evolution of Pig Butchering Scam Lures Victim in Fake Mining Scheme, details the story of one of the scammed victims in the pools, named *Frank, and how he lost $22,000 in one week after someone pretending to be Vivian on the dating app MeetMe contacted him. After Sophos X-Ops investigated Franks story, the team uncovered a total of 14 domains associated with the scam operation, as well as dozens of nearly identical fraud sites that, together, netted this one ring of pig butcherers more than $1 million in three months. This scam takes advantage of the largely unregulated world of decentralized finance (DeFI) cryptocurrency trading applications. Such applications create liquidity pools of various types of cryptocurrencies that users can then access to make trades from one cryptocurrency to another. Those who participate in the pool receive a percentage of any fee paid when a trade is made, creating an enticing return on investment. To join a pool, participants first have to sign an online smart contracta contract that gives another account (typically the operators of the pool) permission to access participants wallets to facilitate trades. Fake pools, which pig butcherers are increasingly utilizing to siphon funds from targets, operate in much the same way. However, unlike legitimate pools, at some point these scammers pull the rug and empty the entire liquidity pool for themselves. When we first discovered these fake liquidity pools, it was rather primitive and still developing. Now, were seeing sha zhu pan scammers taking this particular brand of cryptocurrency fraud and seamlessly integrating it into their existing set of tactics, such as luring targets over dating apps. Very few understand how legitimate cryptocurrency trading works, so it's easy for these scammers to con their targets. There are even toolkits now for this sort of scam, making it simple for different pig butchering operations to add this type of crypto fraud to their arsenal. While last year, Sophos tracked dozens of these fraudulent liquidity pool sites, now were seeing more than 500, said Sean Gallagher, principal threat researcher, Sophos. Story continues Sophos X-Ops first learned of this liquidity mining operation from a victim named Frank. Frank had connected on the dating app MeetMe with a scammer hiding behind the persona of Vivian, a German woman supposedly living in Washington, D.C. for work. For weeks, Frank chatted with Vivian, who mixed her romantic promises with persistent attempts to convince Frank to invest in crypto. Eventually, Frank opened a Trust Wallet account (a legitimate app for converting dollars to cryptocurrency) and connected to the link to the liquidity pool site Vivian recommended. In reality, the pool site was a fraud site utilizing the brand of Allnodes, an established decentralized finance platform provider, as a cover. Between May 31 and June 5, Frank invested $22,000 in the scheme. Just three days later, the scammers emptied Franks digital wallet. Frank, looking to recover his money, turned to Vivan, who claimed he needed to invest even more in the pool to recover his funds and reap the rewards. While waiting for his bank to authorize a money transfer to Coinbase, Frank started researching what was going on and came across an article on liquidity mining from Sophos. At this point, Frank reached out to Gallagher for help. Even after Gallagher instructed Frank to block Vivian, she eventually found him on Telegram and continued her attempts to entice him into continuing their investment, going so far as to send a lengthy, emotional letter that was very likely created by a generative AI app. What makes these sorts of scams particularly tricky is that they dont require any malware to be installed on a victims device. They dont even involve a fake app, like some of those weve encountered in other CryptoRom scams. This entire fake liquidity pool was run through the legitimate Trust Wallet app. At one point, Frank even tried to contact Trust Wallets support to recover his money, but he connected with a fake support contact from the fraudulent liquidity pool site. There is no regulation of these pools, legitimate or otherwise, on these crypto apps. These scams succeed solely through social engineering, and the scammers are persistent. Vivian continued trying to contact Frank for weeks after he blocked her on WhatsApp. The only way to stay safe from these scams is to be vigilant and know that they exist and how they operate. That is why Frank wanted to share his story. Users need be wary of anyone they have no connection with reaching out to them suddenly via any dating app or social media platform, particularly if the person reaching out wants to move the conversation to a platform like WhatsApp and then discusses investing in cryptocurrency, said Gallagher. Sophos has shared its data on this case with Chainalysis and Coinbase, as well as other threat intelligence professionals in the cryptocurrency space, all of whom continue to investigate. People who believe they may be a victim of pig butchering or liquidity mining fraud are free to reach out to Sophos. They should also reach out to their local law enforcement for assistance. For more about the rise of liquidity mining scams in Latest Evolution of Pig Butchering Scam Lures Victim in Fake Mining Scheme, go to Sophos.com. *Name has been changed to protect the privacy of the victim. Learn More About About Sophos Sophos is a worldwide leader and innovator of advanced cybersecurity solutions, including Managed Detection and Response (MDR) and incident response services and a broad portfolio of endpoint, network, email, and cloud security technologies that help organizations defeat cyberattacks. As one of the largest pure-play cybersecurity providers, Sophos defends more than 500,000 organizations and more than 100 million users globally from active adversaries, ransomware, phishing, malware, and more. Sophos services and products connect through its cloud-based Sophos Central management console and are powered by Sophos X-Ops, the companys cross-domain threat intelligence unit. Sophos X-Ops intelligence optimizes the entire Sophos Adaptive Cybersecurity Ecosystem, which includes a centralized data lake that leverages a rich set of open APIs available to customers, partners, developers, and other cybersecurity and information technology vendors. Sophos provides cybersecurity-as-a-service to organizations needing fully-managed, turnkey security solutions. Customers can also manage their cybersecurity directly with Sophos security operations platform or use a hybrid approach by supplementing their in-house teams with Sophos services, including threat hunting and remediation. Sophos sells through reseller partners and managed service providers (MSPs) worldwide. Sophos is headquartered in Oxford, U.K. More information is available at www.sophos.com. CONTACT: Contact: Sam Powers, sophos@walkersands.com kali9 / iStock.com Social Security overpayments add up to a substantial amount, creating administrative and fiscal management problems for the Social Security Administration. Its hard for recipients, too, especially if they need the funds to pay it back. Social Security Cuts: These States Would Be Impacted the Least Related: The Simple, Effective Way To Fortify Your Retirement Mix According to Boston 25 News, the government is requesting back $21 billion in overpayments nationwide. Records show that most overpayments are from Supplemental Security Income (SSI). This can happen when beneficiaries exceed asset or income limits, but if the agency makes a mistake, it will still demand the money back. These beneficiaries are typically low-income, 65 or older, totally or partially blind or have a medical condition that keeps them from working. In a Sept. 14 statement, the SSA said the agency is required by law to adjust benefits or recover debts when people receive overpayments. The agency noted that overpayments can occur for many reasons, such as when someone does not report changes that can affect benefits on time or when someone chooses to continue receiving benefits during an appeal. The SSA handles overpayments on a case-by-case basis. Lori, a central Florida resident, told Orlando News WFTV she received an overpayment notice that changed her life forever. I went to my mailbox and a letter from Social Security and I opened it and it was a demand letter for $121,000, payable in 30 days. For the explanation was for overpayment, she said. Since 2001, Lori has been collecting $900 monthly in disability insurance benefits from Social Security. The SSA said she didnt disclose the workmans comp payments she was getting, but she did, and the system wasnt showing it. The agency started taking her checks as repayment. Social Security: Is the $16,728 Yearly Bonus Real? And Lori isnt the only one getting a notice demanding tens of thousands of dollars be returned. Story continues Addie Arnold, in Columbus, Ohio, is retired and the sole caretaker of her disabled adult niece. She relies on Social Security checks, but told the I-Team on WHIO News Center 7 that the SSA requested that she pay back over $60,000 in overpayments. The agency withholds some of their monthly checks to get the money back. The SSA said that in the notices, the agency informs people of the overpayment amount, their right to appeal and the options to repay or receive waivers for the debt. Beneficiaries are generally some of the lowest income people in this country, Rebecca Vallas with The Century Foundation said to the WHIO I-Team. And the agency knows full well that they dont have some pile of cash theyre sitting on. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Social Security Overpayments Causing Major Problems How Its Affecting Recipients as Funds Are Requested Back Softbank boss Masayoshi Son told investors that he uses ChatGPT every day as a brainstorming tool Tomohiro Ohsumi/Getty Images Softbank is considering investing in ChatGPT-maker OpenAI, according to a report in the Financial Times. Boss Masayoshi Son has been very enthusiastic about the chatbot, telling investors he uses it daily. The Japanese giant's Vision Fund is going on the offensive over AI despite some high-profile losses. Like students and workers , Softbank boss Masayoshi Son can't stop using ChatGPT, and now, he could be investing in it. Softbank is considering investing in OpenAI, with the Financial Times reporting that the AI startup is one of a number of options being looked at by the Japanese telecoms giant. The potential investment comes after boss Son told Softbank shareholders he was "chatting with ChatGPT everyday," in comments reported by Reuters . The Softbank founder claimed that his late-night conversations with the chatbot inspired him to begin aggressively investing in tech stocks again. One long brainstorming session ended with ChatGPT praising his ideas as "feasible and wonderful" , he said in comments reported by the Wall Street Journal. Son has also met with OpenAI boss Sam Altman in recent months, and told Softbank investors in June that he speaks to the AI startup boss "almost everyday." The company's $100bn Vision Fund, which was founded in 2017, has become famous for targeting buzzy high-growth companies, and for its eccentric founder, with Son reportedly comparing himself to Jesus and Yoda in one 2020 investor call. The potential investment in AI comes after a difficult few years for Softbank's giant investment arm. The Vision Fund has cut back on spending and posted a record $32 billion loss earlier this year after several high-profile misfires including investments in the likes of WeWork and FTX with the company writing its $100 million stake in the latter down to zero after the crypto exchange collapsed into acrimonious bankruptcy. Despite this, Son has signaled a willingness to go all-in on AI, telling investors in June that the firm was ready to go back into "offense mode." Story continues This offensive will likely be enabled by the massive public launch of Softbank's British chipmaker ARM , which secured a $54.5 billion valuation in an initial public offering on Thursday, boosting the company's investment warchest. OpenAI and Softbank did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Insider, made outside regular US working hours. Read the original article on Business Insider KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Over Malaysia Day, SPX, the delivery provider of SEA group with 118 hubs nationwide, celebrated two years of inclusion, promoting women and closing the gender divide in the courier industry. From left to right: Cheah Lee Sun, Head of SPX; Siti Sakinah Yusof; Nadiah Mohd Shukor; and Ruzita Puzi Since 2021, SPX has hired 40 times more women in management and operational roles. Today, 13% couriers and 40% sorters nationwide are women; helmed by a female director, Cheah Lee Sun. "I welcome female couriers all over Malaysia, because I don't see this as a male-dominated industry. No job is too heavy duty for women here whether it involves heavy lifting or driving commercial vehicles. Everyone is welcome, in the spirit of inclusion and supporting upskilling local talents in the communities where we operate," says Lee Sun, Head of SPX. Lee Sun acknowledges that getting extra logistics capacity during peak periods can be very competitive. She makes personal visits to SPX facilities, and rides along with her drivers, men and women equally, ensuring equal employee treatment and instant feedback to facilitate better performance. SPX implemented a company-wide Visible Policy initiative -- providing active channels for employees to report integrity or harassment issues anonymously. Siti Sakinah Yusof, 33, started as a contract supervisor in the Kuala Terengganu Selatan hub. Due to her unwavering integrity and work ethic, she was absorbed full-time with SPX. A mother of three, she is a role model in cultivating a trustworthy, positive workplace environment. "Women must take care of themselves and speak up about those with unethical behaviour," she said. Nadiah Mohd Shukor, 34, looks out for working mothers under her supervision as a trainee in the Acting Area Manager Programme for Hulu Langat, Balakong, Serdang, and Titiwangsa. "I ensure working mothers apply for leave when their child is sick, and take breaks at work even during peak periods," she said. Story continues Working flexibility as SPX couriers means women can drop their children off at schools while still managing their deliveries on shift. Inclusive hiring policies have resulted in a culture of inclusion, discipline, and community-building at SPX. Ruzita Puzi, 45, has over 20 years of logistics experience, and is in a position to bring more job opportunities to women in Kedah at her Alor Setar Hub: "I want women from all walks of life to believe in themselves because they can succeed in anything, and break the gender barrier." Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/spx-celebrates-women-empowerment-with-40x-more-women-hires-in-two-years-301930243.html SOURCE SPX Standard Lithium EL DORADO, Ark., Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Standard Lithium Ltd. (Standard Lithium or the Company) (TSXV:SLI) (NYSE American:SLI) (FRA:S5L), a leading near-commercial lithium company, announces that the Preliminary Feasibility Study for the South West Arkansas Project (the Report), as announced on August 8, 2023, has been filed. The Report is available for review under the Companys profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedar.com and on the Companys website at www.standardlithium.com/projects/arkansas-smackover. For highlights of this Report, please refer to the Companys press release dated 8 August 2023. About the South West Arkansas Project The South West Arkansas Project (SWA Project) is located approximately 15 miles west of the City of Magnolia in southwestern Arkansas. The SWA Projects Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resource of 1.4 Mt and 0.4 Mt lithium carbonate equivalent, respectively, has some of the highest reported lithium brine concentrations in North America, averaging above 400 mg/L. The Preliminary Feasibility Study demonstrates robust economics, assuming production of at least 30,000 tonnes per year of battery-quality lithium hydroxide beginning in 2027 over a 20-plus year operating life. The Company anticipates completing a FEED and Definitive Feasibility Study for the SWA Project in 2024 and beginning construction in 2025. Commercial production is expected in 2027, subject to continuing project definition, due diligence, project financing and receipt of future feasibility studies. About Standard Lithium Ltd. Standard Lithium is a leading near-commercial lithium development company focused on the sustainable development of a portfolio of lithium-brine bearing properties in the United States. The Company prioritizes brine projects characterized by high-grade resources, robust infrastructure, skilled labor, and streamlined permitting. The Company aims to achieve sustainable, commercial-scale lithium production via the application of a scalable and fully-integrated Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) and purification process. The Companys signature projects, the Phase 1A Project and the South West Arkansas Project, are located on the Smackover Formation in southern Arkansas near the Louisiana state line, a region with a long-standing and established brine processing industry. The Company has also identified a number of highly prospective lithium brine project areas in the Smackover Formation in East Texas and began an extensive brine leasing program in the key project areas. In addition, the Company has an interest in certain mineral leases located in the Mojave Desert in San Bernardino County, California. Story continues Standard Lithium trades on both the TSX Venture Exchange and the NYSE American under the symbol SLI; and on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol S5L. Please visit the Companys website at www.standardlithium.com. Qualified Person Steve Ross, P.Geol., a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, and Vice President Resource Development for the Company, has reviewed and approved the relevant scientific and technical information in this news release. Twitter: @standardlithium LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/standard-lithium/ 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. This news release may contain certain Forward-Looking Statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws. When used in this news release, the words anticipate, believe, estimate, expect, target, plan, forecast, may, schedule and other similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information may relate to intended development timelines, future prices of commodities, accuracy of mineral or resource exploration activity, reserves or resources, regulatory or government requirements or approvals, the reliability of third party information, continued access to mineral properties or infrastructure, fluctuations in the market for lithium and its derivatives, changes in exploration costs and government regulation in Canada and the United States, and other factors or information. Such statements represent the Companys current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause 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. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules and regulations. CONTACT: Investor and Media Inquiries Allysa Howell Vice President, Corporate Communications +1 720 484 1147 a.howell@standardlithium.com Gardner to bring tailored benefits solutions to a broad range of clients as Alliant expands capabilities in the Northeast IRVINE, Calif., September 18, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Steve Gardner has joined Alliant Insurance Services as Vice President within its Employee Benefits Group. Based in Rhode Island, Gardner will work with a broad range of clients to create, implement, and manage employee benefits solutions that address the changing needs of businesses and individuals. "Steve has been supporting clients in the employee benefits and risk management spaces for decades, and hes bringing that experience to Alliant. As we expand our footprint and serve more customers in the Northeast, Steves experience gives us a competitive edge," said Kevin Overbey, President, Alliant Employee Benefits. "Steves ability to leverage long-standing customer relationships makes him an asset and a great addition to the team." Gardner joins Alliant with more than 30 years of sales, insurance, and employee benefits experience, serving clients across New England. Throughout his career, he has focused on maintaining high levels of client engagement and enhancing existing partnerships while helping clients get the most out of their employee benefits investment and reducing associated risks. Prior to joining Alliant, Gardner was a Vice President with a national benefits consulting firm. He earned his bachelors degree from Central Connecticut State University in New Britain, Connecticut. Gardner can be reached at (401) 382-7894 or Steve.Gardner@alliant.com. About Alliant Insurance Services Alliant Insurance Services is one of the nations leading distributors of diversified insurance products and services. We operate through a network of specialized national platforms and local offices to offer our clients a comprehensive portfolio of solutions built on innovative thinking and personal service. The business of managing risk is getting more complex, and Alliant is meeting this complexity head-on, not with more layers of management, but with more creativity and agility. Alliant is changing the way our clients approach risk management and benefits, so they can capitalize on new opportunities to grow and protect their organizations. Visit us at alliant.com. Story continues View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230918052207/en/ Contacts Nick Kopinga First Vice President Corporate Marketing and Communications (949) 260-5004 nkopinga@alliant.com FILE PHOTO: Advertisement of Sunac China Holdings is seen at a residential complex in Shanghai By Xie Yu HONG KONG (Reuters) -Creditors of Sunac China Holdings Ltd have approved its $9 billion offshore debt restructuring plan, the company said on Monday, marking the first approval of such debt overhaul by a major Chinese property developer. Sunac is among a string of Chinese property developers that have defaulted on their offshore debt payment obligations since the sector was hit by a liquidity crisis in 2021, roiling global markets. The agreement comes as investors closely monitor whether a raft of property easing measures introduced by Beijing could revive the sector. Creditors holding 98.3% of the total value of the bonds who took part in the vote have approved Sunac's restructuring plan proposed earlier this year, according the company's filing with the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Sunac said that following the creditors' approval it would proceed to seek the approval of the plan by a Hong Kong court at a hearing scheduled for Oct. 5. The developer reached an agreement with a group of offshore creditors in March to restructure $9 billion of its debt, under which a part of its debt would be exchanged into convertible bonds backed by its Hong Kong-listed shares along with new notes with maturities of between two and nine years. Sunac said in an earlier filing the plan had won support from holders of 87% of outstanding offshore debt by July, but Monday's announcement marks the plan's formal final approval. In a separate filing on Monday, Sunac said it had decided to raise the cap on mandatory convertible bonds to $2.75 billion, up from $2.2 billion in the original plan, to cater to "an overwhelming interest" by the scheme creditors. Sunac's revenue in the first six months rose 20.5% to 58.47 billion yuan ($8.02 billion), its interim results showed. Losses declined 18.1% to 15.37 billion yuan. China has rolled out support measures to help revive the property sector, which accounts for roughly a quarter of its economy and has faced a liquidity crunch since 2021, but analysts say more is needed to help it recover. Story continues Unlike Sunac, many fellow developers have yet to reach agreements with offshore creditors. Embattled Chinese property developer Country Garden, one of the few large Chinese developers that have not defaulted on debt obligations, faces yet another liquidity test on Monday when $15 million interest payment linked to an offshore bond is due after having dodged default at the last minute twice earlier this month. Sunac said last month it believed a successful offshore debt restructuring would greatly reduce cash flow pressure over the next two years, though "material uncertainties" existed regarding whether it could be able to implement steps to restore cash flow. Sunac's Hong Kong shares have fallen 38.9% so far this year. (Reporting by Xie Yu; Editing by Jan Harvey, Emelia Sithole-Matarise and Tomasz Janowski) Its no secret that the powerful influence of social media can cause people to spend impulsively, but that may now be amounting to tens of billions of dollars of extra spending per year. Over the last 12 months, U.S. adults have spent $71 billion on impulse buys based on what they saw on social media, according to a new Bankrate survey. (Thats more than the gross domestic product of countries like Slovenia, Ghana or Jordan.) Over half (57 percent) of those impulse buyers regretted at least one of their purchases. As Americans feel influenced by products seen on social media, they indicate that it presents an unrealistic picture of wealth and success more than half (57 percent) of social media users say people post to look more successful and 51 percent of users say social media promotes unrealistic lifestyles. Ted Rossman | Bankrate Senior Industry Analyst Bankrates key insights on social media Lightbulb Most people who have impulsively bought items seen on social media have regrets. 48% of social media users say they have made an impulse purchase of a product they saw on social media, and 68% of those people say they regretted at least one of the purchases. Social media-driven impulse purchases are costing Americans hundreds. Those who made impulse purchases based on products seen on social media in the past year spent an average of $754. Few admit to using social media to look successful. 57% of social media users believe that people post to look successful, but only 12% of users admit to doing it themselves. Social media can drive people to feel negative about their finances. 20% of users have felt negatively about their financial situation after seeing posts from others on social media. Story continues Nearly half of Americans have made an impulse purchase after seeing a product on social media If youve ever bought refrigerator storage after seeing someone fill theirs with snacks on TikTok, or if youve ever purchased expensive gaming accessories after seeing someone rave about them on Reddit, youre not alone. Nearly half (48 percent) of social media users say they have impulsively purchased a product they saw on social media, and 68 percent of those buyers say they later regretted at least one of their purchases. Source: Bankrate survey, August 16-23, 2023 Note: Percentages may not total 100 percent due to rounding. Within the past year specifically, 39 percent of social media users say they have impulsively purchased a product they saw on social media, and 57 percent of those people say they regret at least one of their purchases. Spending impulsively isnt necessarily negative, but if you realize youve been spending more than you would like, or if youre neglecting saving in favor of discretionary spending, Bankrate Senior Industry Analyst Ted Rossman recommends taking a breath before your next impulse purchase. Consider the 24-hour rule, which entails stepping away from that item in your cart for 24 hours before you buy it. You can still purchase it the next day, but that extra time lets you reconsider if you really want the item or not. For larger amounts, you might even want to hold off for a week or more, Rossman says. Make sure to involve your spouse in the discussion as well (if you have one). We found that secret spending is the most common example of financial infidelity. The urge to impulsively spend is affecting younger generations more than older generations: Gen Zers (ages 18-26) and millennials (ages 27-42) are most likely to purchase something impulsively after seeing it on social media: Generation of social media users Percentage who say they have impulsively purchased a product they saw on social media in the past year Percentage who now say they regret at least one of those impulsive purchases Gen Z (ages 18-26) 60% 58% Millennials (ages 27-42) 61% 55% Gen X (ages 43-58) 42% 56% Baby boomers (ages 59-77) 34% 62% Though baby boomers (ages 59-77) were the least likely generation to purchase a product they saw on social media in the last year, they were the most likely (62 percent) to regret one of those purchases. Americans spend $754 on average per year impulsively buying products they see on social media Impulse purchases can add up quickly. Over the past 12 months, Americans impulsively purchasing items they saw on social media spent an average of $754. Around one-quarter (26 percent) of impulse buyers spent at least $500: Source: Bankrate survey, August 16-23, 2023 Men and younger adults tend to spend far more on their impulse purchases due to social media. Male impulse buyers spent an average of $999 on their purchases over the last year, nearly twice as much as women, who spent an average of $518. Millennial social media impulse buyers spent the most of any generation, around twice as much on average as Gen Xers or baby boomers. Also, Gen Z social media impulse buyers were the most likely to spend more than $500 on products seen on social media, more than twice as likely as baby boomers, who were least likely to spend that amount: Generation of social media users who made an impulse purchase* Average amount spent on impulse purchases inspired by social media* Percentage who impulsively spent $500 or more on products they saw on social media* Gen Z (ages 18-26) $844 30% Millennials (ages 27-42) $1,016 33% Gen X (ages 43-58) $522 22% Baby boomers (ages 59-77) $418 13% 1 in 5 users feel negatively about their finances because of social media When many influencers show off expensive cars, luxury goods and international getaways, social media users say they feel bad about their own finances in comparison. One in five (20 percent) users felt negatively about their own finances after seeing posts on social media. Additionally, 9 percent say social media has a negative effect on how they manage their money: Source: Bankrate survey, August 16-23, 2023 Although social media users feel bad about their own finances compared to what they see online, most say they believe other users dont show an accurate portrayal of everyday life. More than one in two (57 percent) users believe people sometimes post on social media to appear more successful. Few will confess to doing that themselves, however only 12 percent of social media users admit to posting in order to appear more successful. Additionally, 51 percent say social media promotes unrealistic lifestyles. Younger generations admit to bending the truth on social media more than older generations: Gen Zers and millennials are roughly three times as likely as Gen Xers and more than 10 times as likely as baby boomers to admit to posting on social media to look more successful: Gen Z (ages 18-26): 21 percent Millennials (ages 27-42): 22 percent Gen X (ages 43-58): 7 percent Baby boomers (ages 59-77): 2 percent In an even wider generational gap, Gen Zers and millennials are roughly four times as likely as Gen Xers and about sixteen times as likely as baby boomers to say social media has a negative effect on how they manage their money: Gen Z (ages 18-26): 17 percent Millennials (ages 27-42): 16 percent Gen X (ages 43-58): 4 percent Baby boomers (ages 59-77): 1 percent 3 tips to keep FOMO from affecting your budget It can be hard to stick to a budget, but its especially hard when social media encourages you to buy the hottest new products. When fear of missing out, or FOMO, gets you down, remember these tips to stay on track with your financial goals: 1. Evaluate your discretionary spending. How much wiggle room do you actually have to spend outside of bills? Re-examine your budget and identify how much you have in discretionary income, or the money you have to spend after you pay your monthly fixed bills. If you spend too much on streaming services and realize you would rather spend it on Saturday nights out, cancel those subscriptions and free up the funds. Savings Money tip:A good budgeting rule of thumb is the 50-30-20 rule. Ideally, 50 percent of your budget should go to fixed expenses, 20 percent to savings and 30 percent to discretionary spending. 2. Identify triggers for impulse spending If youve ever spent too much at the grocery store while hungry, you know your mood can impact your spending. Identifying your emotional triggers can let you know if youre buying something because you need it or can afford it or if youre engaging in emotional spending. Set down your phone when you identify that youre shopping in response to a trigger and come back to the item later to see if you still want it. 3. Dont try to cut discretionary spending completely Avoiding impulse spending doesnt mean you never book a trip inspired by Instagram. Instead, set that trip as a goal for the future and make sure that you have room in your budget for it. If you dont, allocate a portion of your savings for future big discretionary purchases, like a vacation or luxury item youve been eyeing. With a little planning, you can live within your budget and treat yourself, too. FAQs What is social medias effect on your finances? Nearly half (48 percent) of social media users say they have impulsively purchased a product they saw on social media and 68 percent of those buyers say they regret at least one of their purchases, according to a Bankrate poll. Why is social media bad when youre trying to save? Social media can lead to unrealistic expectations on how to spend and save. More than one in two (57 percent) social media users believe people sometimes post on social media to appear more successful. Roughly one in two (51 percent) say social media promotes unrealistic lifestyles. How can people use social media to learn more about personal finance? Not all social media users promote unhelpful financial habits. Follow your favorite financial influencer to learn more about their personal finance strategy. Or, search for a financial advisor who can guide you one-on-one. Methodology All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 3,607 U.S. adults, of which 3,304 are members of at least one social media platform. Fieldwork was undertaken between 16th 20th August 2023. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all US adults (aged 18+). The survey was carried out online and meets rigorous quality standards. It employed a non-probability-based sample using both quotas upfront during collection and then a weighting scheme on the back end designed and proven to provide nationally representative results. Long-established in the Telecommunication Services industry, AT&T Inc (NYSE:T) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. However, it has recently witnessed a daily loss of 0.69%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of -4.27%. 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 63 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 $108.13 billion and sales of $121.44 billion, is a major player in the Telecommunication Services industry. 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. Story continues 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 61.39% of 303 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 0.45, 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 89.74% 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 88.39% of 379 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 AT&T Inc's financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GuruFocus Score Rating highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential underperformance. While the company has a rich history and significant market presence, its current financial health and growth prospects may not be as promising. 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. More than 50 years after the Apollo mission landed the last American aircraft on the surface of the moon, Pittsburgh-based Astrobotic is attempting to repeat the same feat with one big distinction becoming the first commercial space company to achieve a lunar landing. "It took a while for technology to advance to the point where we could affordably, routinely, regularly get to the surface of the moon," Astrobotic CEO John Thornton said. "The stars have aligned for the moon, if you will." Thornton and his team are placing their first bet on the Peregrine lunar lander, a small-class spacecraft developed inside Astrobotic's 47,000-square-foot facility. Equipped with its electronics, propulsion, and communications systems, the Peregrine will be loaded aboard United Launch Alliances Vulcan Centaur rocket, scheduled for launch later this year. The Peregrine lunar lander on the surface of the moon in space. (Astrobotics) A $470 billion industry A successful landing would mark a major milestone in the private space race that has spawned a $470 billion industry globally and elevate a more audacious goal human life on the moon. "To crack the nut of the moon, we need the infrastructure and resources to begin to start to work," Thornton said. "The more we can remove our tether of reliance on earths resources and we travel into space, the more we become true space explorers and ultimately space settlers." While early Apollo missions were driven by government agencies like NASA, the rapid growth in private space companies has led to a surge in new missions stemming from private-public partnerships, focused on scientific research and space exploration. Elon Musks Space X alone has operated eight manned space flights to the International Space Station, in partnership with NASA. Yet, commercial success on the moon has remained elusive. An attempt by Japanese company ispace (9348.T) to land the first commercial lander on the lunar surface fell short earlier this year when its Hakuto-R lunar lander miscalculated the altitude and crashed. Story continues Astrobotic has already secured multiple contracts with NASA, valued at roughly $450 million. Following the launch of the Peregrine lander, the companys larger lander, Griffin, will set out to deliver NASAs Viper Rover to the south pole of the moon next year, in search of water in the darkest corner of the planet. "You have to build a spacecraft that can fly for up to a month or more at a time through space, get out to the moon, drop into lunar orbit, and then descend for a soft landing down on the surface," Thornton said. "Its extremely difficult to string all those series of successes together in a single spacecraft that can then deliver a business model." 'Hotels on the moon' The goal of establishing a long-term human presence on the moon has gained momentum in recent weeks. Last month, India became the first country to land a spacecraft on the south pole of the moon, an area scientists believe holds reserves of frozen water. Thornton likened any water on the moon to oil on Earth a resource so valuable that its likely to expand lunar exploration. And the potential of future space exploration, including Mars missions, largely hinges on success on the moon, Thornton said. "As the costs come down, as we're able to use more in-space resources, there could become a point where the costs become affordable enough that you can potentially [see the development of] the very first hotels on the moon," Thornton said. "[The lunar surface] could be how we refuel our spacecraft to go to Mars and other deep space destinations. It all starts right here with our nearest neighbor, the moon. At Astrobotic's Pittsburgh headquarters, that business model is front and center, and the words "making space accessible to the world" are emblazoned on the wall. While the companys immediate focus is on delivering cargo to the moon, its also building out the lunar infrastructure in anticipation of astronauts and space tourists eventually spending longer periods there. For instance, its wireless charger is designed to withstand moon "dust storms" to give rovers and landers a direct source of power. To keep those chargers powered, Astrobotic is also building a portable energy grid that provides solar power. Loaded onto a rover, the Lunagrid will act like a mini gas station, generating and distributing power. That is especially critical during the lunar night, which spans 14 days on Earth. "If you run out of power on the moon, that's game over," said Jay Eckard, senior project manager. "You don't get to go up there and plug it in or bring extra batteries." This post was edited by Grace O'Donnell. A banner advertising the NEXT series For more on our NEXT Series, click here, and tune in to Yahoo Finance every Monday at 10 a.m. ET. Akiko Fujita is an anchor and reporter for Yahoo Finance. Follow her on Twitter @AkikoFujita. Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance LEXINGTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / TRIANA Biomedicines, Inc. (TRIANA), an innovative biopharmaceutical company focused on advancing a target-first and rational molecular glue discovery platform to address difficult to drug disease targets, today announced that Dr. Patrick Trojer, President and Chief Executive Officer, will present at the UBS Biotechnology Private Company Virtual Symposium on Wednesday September 20, 2023 at 3:30 PM ET. About TRIANA Biomedicines, Inc. TRIANA Biomedicines is a private biotechnology company, headquartered in Lexington, Massachusetts and focused on building the leading molecular glue discovery platform to regulate disease targets that are difficult to address with any other modality. TRIANA's drug discovery engine is powered by high-resolution structural insights, state-of-the-art AI and computational tools, and bespoke chemical libraries. TRIANA's target first and rational approach to molecular glue discovery is currently focused on inducing or enhancing the degradation of high-profile cancer targets. The therapeutic approach pioneered by TRIANA has the potential to fundamentally change the paradigm of small molecule drug discovery and bring significant therapeutic benefits to patients. Contact IR@trianabio.com SOURCE: TRIANA Biomedicines, Inc. View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/784104/triana-biomedicines-to-present-at-ubs-biotechnology-private-company-virtual-symposium The UAWs stand up strike against the Big Three automakers enters its fourth day, with not much movement in sight as both sides appear stuck at an impasse. Over the weekend, Stellantis improved its offer to the UAW, offering an immediate 10% pay increase, with wages increasing by 21% over the course of the contract. Though tiers would remain, Stellantis said it would bring down the number of years for union members to earn the highest wage, to four years from eight. Stellantis said it also offered an inflation protection measure to offset the costs of inflation, though details were not given. In addition, Stellantis said it was willing to negotiate the future of the automakers Belvidere, Ill., assembly plant, which was idled earlier this year. The UAW was highly critical of the plants closure and now says Stellantis is using the plants future as a bargaining chip. United Auto Workers members strike at the Ford Michigan Assembly Plant on Sept. 16, 2023 in Wayne, Mich. This is the first time in history that the UAW is striking all three of the Big Three automakers, Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis, at the same time. (Bill Pugliano/Getty Images) UAW president Shawn Fain appeared on the Sunday talk show circuit, criticizing the automakers and warning negotiations were dragging. Progress is slow, Fain said on MSNBCs The Sunday Show with Jonathan Capehart, adding, I dont really want to say were closer. Fain also declined to elaborate on plans for the possibility of a second wave of plant strikes. Around 12,700 UAW workers have walked off and remain on strike as part of a coordinated plan that affected three separate plants. The UAW is asking for wage hikes of nearly 40%, COLA (cost of living adjustments) built into a future contract, end of wage tiers, and a defined benefit pension plan, among other things. The ripple effects of the current stand up strikes at GM's Wentzville, Mo., plant (which assembles midsize trucks and full-size vans), Stellantis's Toledo Assembly (Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator), and Ford's Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne (Ranger midsize pickup and Bronco SUV) are starting to be felt on both sides. Following the walk-offs at strike locations, Ford said it was laying off 600 workers in a different part of the Michigan Assembly plant, due to the striking workers in the paint and assembly division of that plant. Story continues This layoff is a consequence of the strike at Michigan Assembly Plants final assembly and paint departments, because the components built by these 600 employees use materials that must be e-coated for protection. E-coating is completed in the paint department, which is on strike," Ford said in a statement. In addition, GM said the strike at the Wentzville Assembly plant in Missouri was affecting production at its Fairfax, Kan., factory, meaning 2,000 workers at the Fairfax location could be laid off by the end of the week. GMs Fairfax plant assembles the Cadillac XT4 crossover, and the Chevrolet Malibu sedan. "[The layoffs are] due to a shortage of critical stampings supplied by Wentzville's stamping operations to Fairfax," GM said in a statement. "We are working under an expired agreement at Fairfax. Unfortunately, there are no provisions that allow for company-provided SUB-pay in this circumstance." Pras Subramanian is a reporter for Yahoo Finance. You can follow him on Twitter and on Instagram. Click here for the latest stock market news and in-depth analysis, including events that move stocks Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance For the first time, the country will introduce online voting in its elections to the Federal National Council so that voters can vote from any device. This also includes Emiratis outside the country. The online voting system will be combined with in-person internet voting at polling stations through electronic voting kiosks, a digital channel that the United Arab Emirates has been using since 2006. The online voting platform will have a facial recognition authentication system. BARCELONA, SPAIN / ACCESSWIRE / September 18, 2023 / Scytl, leader in online voting and electoral modernization, has won a contract to facilitate online voting in the national elections to the Federal National Council of the United Arab Emirates, scheduled for October of this year. Thanks to the contract signed between the company and the Ministry of State for Federal National Council Affairs (MFNCA), Scytl will contribute to the UAE becoming the first country in the world to hold an entirely digital election. Scytl_UAE Election 2019 Specifically, for the first time, the country will introduce online voting so that voters can exercise their right to vote from any device with an Internet connection. This also includes Emiratis who are outside the country during the election, with online voting replacing traditional paper-voting methods. This system will be combined with in-person internet voting at polling stations through electronic voting kiosks, a digital channel that the country has used in previous elections. The CEO of Scytl, Raoul Roverato, recalled that "this is the fourth time that the country has entrusted us with its elections to the Federal National Council and, although for Scytl it has always been an exciting project, this year it is even more so because of the milestone it represents in the history of governmental elections: the first fully digital process. We are proud to help this country become the first to hold an all-digital election with our technology, and also to set a precedent for other countries to modernize and follow in the UAE's lead." Story continues Online Voting Platform with Facial Recognition For this important milestone, Scytl will be responsible for providing the electoral technology necessary for the optimal development of the elections. In this sense, it will launch an online platform from which Emiratis can elect members to the Federal National Council from any device with an Internet connection. It is a secure, efficient, and intuitive channel, where the voter can authenticate themself with facial recognition. Additionally, the firm will deploy its internet voting technology with the strictest security measures throughout 24 polling stations in the seven emirates, guaranteeing voters total privacy and secrecy when casting their vote. About Scytl Election Technologies Scytl is leading digital transformation in elections around the world. Its cutting-edge technology, implemented with precision and under the highest security standards, has allowed more than 30 countries to rely on the firm, protected by more than 50 international patents. Scytl is part of Grenadier Holdings. Contact Information Clemence Campillo Global Marketing Director clemence.campillo@scytl.com SOURCE: Scytl . View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/785029/united-arab-emirates-becomes-first-country-to-hold-fully-digital-elections-with-scytl Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) Market Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) Market Pune, India, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global Unmanned Surface Vehicle market size was valued at USD 2.05 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow from USD 2.13 billion in 2023 to USD 2.89 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.4% during the forecast period. An Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) is a vessel that floats on the ocean's surface and it can be controlled by an operator or programmed to run by itself. It is usually powered by a fast-charging battery pack or solar energy and is mainly used for research and marine applications. Fortune Business Insights mentioned this in a report titled Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) Market, 2023-2030. Get a Sample Research PDF: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/unmanned-surface-vehicle-usv-s-market-102526 List of Key Players Profiled in the Report: Companies leading the Unmanned Surface Vehicle Market are Kongsberg Maritime (Norway), SaaB AB (Sweden), L3 Harris Technologies (U.S.), Textron Inc (U.S.), ECA Group (France), Thales Group (France), Fugro (Netherlands), Atlas Elektronik GmbH (Germany), ASV (U.K.), Elbit Systems (Israel), Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. (Israel), 5G International (U.S.), Liquid Robotics (U.S.), Teledyne Technologies (U.S.). Report Scope & Segmentation: Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023-2030 Forecast CAGR 4.4% 2030 Value Projection USD 2.89 Billion Market Size in 2023 USD 2.13 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 Size By Component By Mode of Operation By Geography Regions Covered North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America Middle East and Africa Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) Market Growth Drivers Increased Demand and Need for Cleaning Oceans by Unmanned Vehicle Drive the Market Growth Increased Use of Unmanned Surface Vehicles for Defense Missions is Propelling the Market Growth Browse Detailed Summary of Research Report with TOC: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/unmanned-surface-vehicle-usv-s-market-102526 Story continues Russia-Ukraine War Impact: Demand for Unmanned Surface Vehicle Increased Owing to Russia-Ukraine War Russia's war against Ukraine was mostly a ground-and-air battle, with armed drones and missiles becoming increasingly common in modern warfare. The Black Sea was especially important in the maritime region. The overwhelming naval power of the Russian Navy is mainly due to Russia's failure to stop maritime intelligence against Ukraine, and Russia's political maneuvering in the strategically important Bosphorus chokepoint, which increased the need for USVs during the Russia-Ukraine War. Segments: Small USVs to Dominate the Market Share Owing to Reduced Survey Time on Site On the basis of size, the market is segmented into small USV, medium USV, large USV, and extra-large USV. The small USV segment dominated the Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) market share in 2022. As a force multiplier, small USVs can be used with traditional survey vessels to double the survey coverage and reduce survey time, augmenting the market growth. Power & Propulsion Systems Led the Market Growth Owing to Wider Replacement of Human Interface Elements with Remote Human Interface Based on component, the market is classified into power and propulsion systems, communication systems, sensors & optronics, hull, inertial navigation & positioning system, ISR & imaging systems, and weapon payloads. Power & propulsion systems to dominate the market share and will be the fastest growing segment during the forecast period. In unmanned surface vehicles, the builder must replace the human interface elements with remote human interface. Further, developing remote-control capabilities for the propulsion systems requires interaction with their proprietary and closed internal communications. Reduced Operational Cost and Enhanced Performance to Dominate the Remotely Operated Segment According to mode of operation, the market is bifurcated into remotely operated and autonomous. The remotely operated segment led the market share in 2022. Companies are looking to take advantage of remote operations and Unmanned Vessel (UV) solutions to enhance performance and reduce operational costs and risks across a wide range of onshore & offshore wind farm development and sub-sea operations. Short (Upto 100 Hours) Segment to Dominate the Market Share due to High Demand for Natural Resource Mapping On the basis of endurance, the market is segmented into short (upto 100 hours), medium (100 500 hours), long (500 1000 hours), and extra-long (above 1000 hours). The short (upto 100 hours) dominated the market share in 2022, owing to rise in demand for short-endurance USVs for environmental & meteorological monitoring. Kayak (Single Hull) Segment to Dominate the Market Share Owing to Increased Marine Exploration Activities As per hull type, the market is divided into kayak (single hull), catamaran (twin hull), trimaran (triple hull), and rigid inflatable hull. The kayak (single hull) segment to lead the market with the fastest CAGR during the projected period. The segment is anticipated to grow due to increasing marine exploration activities during the forecast period. Hydrography & Oceanography Segment Dominated the Market Owing to Increased Adoption of USVs Based on application, the market is segmented into intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, naval & homeland security, anti-submarine warfare, hydrography & oceanography, environmental & meteorological monitoring, natural resource mapping & exploration, and others. The hydrography & oceanography segment dominated the market in 2022 due to their popularity, where USVs are mainly used. Geographically, the market is divided into regions such as North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World. Get a Quote Now: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/get-a-quote/unmanned-surface-vehicle-usv-s-market-102526 Report Coverage: Major growth drivers, restraining factors, opportunities, and potential challenges for the market. Comprehensive insights into regional developments. List of major industry players. Key strategies adopted by the market players. Recent industry developments include product launches, partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions. Drivers & Restraints: Increased Demand for USVs for Defense Missions to Augment Market Growth In the unmanned surface vehicle market, Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) has revolutionized the way naval operations are conducted in recent years. SAM has enhanced from being tools to carry out a wide range of missions to systems that operate with a high degree of autonomy. Additionally, most countries engage in asymmetric warfare due to different strategies developed by different defense departments. Endurance of USVs and limited range hamper operational effectiveness, restricting the Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) market growth. Regional Insights: North America to Dominate the Market Share Owing to Increased Demand for Vehicles North America is anticipated to dominate the market share owing to the rise in the Navys defense budget, ultimately increasing the demand for vehicles in the U.S. Increased export and economic development are anticipated to propel the growth of the market. Europe is expected to rise owing to increasing demand for exploration activities, marine activities, and increased oil and gas production during the projected period. Ask for Customization: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/ask-for-customization/unmanned-surface-vehicle-usv-s-market-102526 Detailed Table of Contents: Introduction Research Scope Market Segmentation Research Methodology Definitions and Assumptions Executive Summary Market Dynamics Market Drivers Market Restraints Market Opportunities Market Trends 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 Russia-Ukraine war on Global Unmanned Surface Vehicle Market Global Unmanned Surface Vehicle Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2030 Key Findings / Definition Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Size Small USV Medium USV Large USV Extra-Large USV Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Component Power & Propulsion Systems Communication Systems Sensors & Optronics Hull Inertial Navigation & Positioning System ISR & Imaging Systems Weapon Payloads Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Mode of Operation Autonomous Remotely Operated Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Endurance Short (Up to 100 Hours) Medium (100 - 500 Hours) Long (500 - 1000 Hours) Extra-Long (Above 1000 Hours) Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Hull Type Kayak (Single Hull) Catamaran (Twin Hull) Trimaran (Triple Hull) Rigid Inflatable Hull Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Application Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Naval & Homeland Security Anti-Submarine Warfare Hydrography & Oceanography Environmental & Meteorological Monitoring Natural Resource Mapping & Exploration Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Region North America Europe Asia Pacific Rest of the World TOC Continued...! Competitive Landscape: Enhancement of advanced technologies by Key Players to Augment Market Growth The market is anticipated to grow owing to the presence of key players such as Fugro (Netherlands), ECA Group (France), Textron Inc (U.S.), SaaB AB (U.S.), L3 Harris Technologies Inc. (U.S.), and Kongsberg Maritime (Norway). These key players in the market are more focused on the development of advanced technology, propelling market growth. Speak to Our Expert: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/speak-to-analyst/unmanned-surface-vehicle-usv-s-market-102526 Key Industry Development: February 2023: Fugro's Blue Essence is the U.K.'s first eROV. Approved by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), the Blue Essence is also the first eROV-equipped USV in the U.K. waters. Read Related Insights: Unmanned Underwater Vehicles Market to Worth USD 9,502.7 Million by 2028 | With 17.59% CAGR With 15.09% CAGR, Unmanned Helicopter Market Size Worth USD 15.12 Billion by 2029 | Fortune Business Insights About Us: 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. Address: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. 9th Floor, Icon Tower, Baner, Mahalunge Road, Baner, Pune - 411045, Maharashtra, India. Phone: US: +1 424 253 0390 UK: +44 2071 939123 APAC: +91 744 740 1245 Email: sales@fortunebusinessinsights.com Follow Us: LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter Attachment Exploring the Dividend History, Growth, and Future Prospects of Douglas Dynamics Inc (NYSE:PLOW) Douglas Dynamics Inc (NYSE:PLOW) recently announced a dividend of $0.3 per share, payable on 2023-09-29, with the ex-dividend date set for 2023-09-18. As investors look forward to this upcoming payment, the spotlight also shines on the company's dividend history, yield, and growth rates. Using the data from GuruFocus, let's deep dive into Douglas Dynamics Inc's dividend performance and assess its sustainability. Introduction to Douglas Dynamics Inc Douglas Dynamics Inc is a manufacturer and upfitter of commercial vehicle attachments and equipment. The Company's portfolio includes snow and ice management attachments sold under the BLIZZARD, FISHER, HENDERSON, SNOWEX and WESTERN brands, turf care equipment under the TURFEX brand and industrial maintenance equipment under the SWEEPEX brand. The Company's portfolio also includes the upfit of attachments and storage solutions under the HENDERSON brand, and the DEJANA brand and its related sub-brands. The Company also leases fifteen manufacturing and upfit and service facilities located in Iowa, Maryland, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island. The Company conducts business in two segments: Work Truck Attachments and Work Truck Solutions. Unraveling Douglas Dynamics Inc's Dividend Performance and Sustainability Douglas Dynamics Inc's Dividend History Douglas Dynamics Inc has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 2010. Dividends are currently distributed on a quarterly basis. Douglas Dynamics Inc has increased its dividend each year since 2010. The stock is thus listed as a dividend achiever, an honor that is given to companies that have increased their dividend each year for at least the past 13 years. Story continues Unraveling Douglas Dynamics Inc's Dividend Performance and Sustainability Examining Douglas Dynamics Inc's Dividend Yield and Growth As of today, Douglas Dynamics Inc currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 3.81% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 3.84%. This suggests an expectation of increased dividend payments over the next 12 months. Over the past three years, Douglas Dynamics Inc's annual dividend growth rate was 2.10%. Extended to a five-year horizon, this rate increased to 3.50% per year. And over the past decade, Douglas Dynamics Inc's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at 3.90%. Unraveling Douglas Dynamics Inc's Dividend Performance and Sustainability Assessing Dividend Sustainability: Payout Ratio and Profitability To assess the sustainability of the dividend, one needs to evaluate the company's payout ratio. The dividend payout ratio provides insights into the portion of earnings the company distributes as dividends. A lower ratio suggests that the company retains a significant part of its earnings, thereby ensuring the availability of funds for future growth and unexpected downturns. As of 2023-06-30, Douglas Dynamics Inc's dividend payout ratio is 0.78. This suggests that the company's dividend may not be sustainable. Douglas Dynamics Inc's profitability rank, offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks Douglas Dynamics Inc's profitability 8 out of 10 as of 2023-06-30, suggesting good profitability prospects. The company has reported net profit in 9 years out of past 10 years. Future Outlook: Growth Metrics To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. Douglas Dynamics Inc's growth rank of 8 out of 10 suggests that the company's growth trajectory is good relative to its competitors. Revenue is the lifeblood of any company, and Douglas Dynamics Inc's revenue per share, combined with the 3-year revenue growth rate, indicates a strong revenue model. Douglas Dynamics Inc's revenue has increased by approximately 2.40% per year on average, a rate that underperforms than approximately 62.36% of global competitors. The company's 3-year EPS growth rate showcases its capability to grow its earnings, a critical component for sustaining dividends in the long run. During the past three years, Douglas Dynamics Inc's earnings increased by approximately -8.20% per year on average, a rate that underperforms than approximately 71.84% of global competitors. Conclusion While Douglas Dynamics Inc has a commendable dividend payment history and growth, the company's high payout ratio and underperforming revenue and EPS growth rates raise concerns about the sustainability of its dividends. Investors must carefully consider these factors before making investment decisions. GuruFocus Premium users can screen for high-dividend yield stocks using the High Dividend Yield Screener. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. A comprehensive analysis of the company's dividend history, yield, growth, and future prospects Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc (CIK) recently announced a dividend of $0.02 per share, payable on 2023-09-25, with the ex-dividend date set for 2023-09-18. As investors look forward to this upcoming payment, the spotlight also shines on the company's dividend history, yield, and growth rates. Using the data from GuruFocus, let's deep dive into Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc's dividend performance and assess its sustainability. Understanding Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc's Business Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc is a closed-end management investment company. The investment objective of the fund is to provide current income consistent with the preservation of capital. Credit Suisse serves as an investment adviser for the fund. Asset Management offers a wide range of investment products and functions across asset classes and investment styles. The division manages global and regional portfolios, mutual funds, and other investment vehicles for governments, institutions, corporations, and individuals. Unveiling Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc's Dividend Performance and Sustainability A Look at Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc's Dividend History Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 1988. Dividends are currently distributed on a monthly basis. Below is a chart showing annual Dividends Per Share for tracking historical trends. Unveiling Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc's Dividend Performance and Sustainability Decoding Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc's Dividend Yield and Growth As of today, Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 9.85% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 9.85%. This suggests an expectation of same dividend payments over the next 12 months. Story continues Extended to a five-year horizon, this rate increased to 0.40% per year. And over the past decade, Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at -1.40%. Based on Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc stock as of today is approximately 10.05%. Unveiling Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc's Dividend Performance and Sustainability Assessing Dividend Sustainability: Payout Ratio and Profitability To assess the sustainability of the dividend, one needs to evaluate the company's payout ratio. The dividend payout ratio provides insights into the portion of earnings the company distributes as dividends. A lower ratio suggests that the company retains a significant part of its earnings, thereby ensuring the availability of funds for future growth and unexpected downturns. As of 2023-06-30, Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc's dividend payout ratio is 0.84, which may suggest that the company's dividend may not be sustainable. Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc's profitability rank, offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc's profitability 3 out of 10 as of 2023-06-30, suggesting the dividend may not be sustainable. The company has reported net profit in 7 years out of past 10 years. Examining Growth Metrics for Future Outlook To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc's growth rank of 3 out of 10 suggests that the company has poor growth prospects and thus, the dividend may not be sustainable. Concluding Remarks While Credit Suisse Asset Mgmt Income Fund Inc has a consistent dividend payment record, its high payout ratio, low profitability rank, and poor growth prospects raise concerns about the sustainability of its dividends. Investors should consider these factors carefully before making investment decisions. GuruFocus Premium users can screen for high-dividend yield stocks using the High Dividend Yield Screener. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Copart Inc (NASDAQ:CPRT) has recently been in the spotlight, drawing interest from investors and financial analysts due to its robust financial stance. With shares currently priced at $44.92, Copart Inc has witnessed a daily gain of 2.37%, marked against a three-month change of 2.84%. A thorough analysis, underlined by the GuruFocus Score Rating, suggests that Copart Inc is well-positioned for substantial growth in the near future. Unveiling the Investment Potential of Copart Inc (CPRT): A Comprehensive Analysis of Financial Metrics and Competitive Strengths 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 Copart 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 high ranks in financial strength, profitability, and growth, and decent ranks in GF value and momentum, GuruFocus assigned Copart Inc the GF Score of 96 out of 100, which signals the highest outperformance potential. Overview of Copart Inc's Business Based in Dallas, Copart Inc operates an online salvage vehicle auction with operations in 11 countries across North America, Europe, and the Middle East, facilitating over 3.5 million transactions annually. The company utilizes its virtual bidding platform, VB3, to connect vehicle sellers with over 750,000 registered buyers around the world. Buyers primarily consist of vehicle dismantlers, rebuilders, individuals and used vehicle retailers. About 80% of Copart's vehicle volume is supplied by auto insurance companies holding vehicles deemed a total loss. Copart also offers services such as vehicle transportation, storage, title transfer, and salvage value estimation. The company primarily operates on a consignment basis and collects fees based on the vehicle's final selling price. Story continues With a market cap of $43.12 billion and sales of $3.87 billion, Copart Inc has an operating margin of 38.42%, indicating a strong profitability. Here is the income breakdown of Copart Inc: Unveiling the Investment Potential of Copart Inc (CPRT): A Comprehensive Analysis of Financial Metrics and Competitive Strengths Financial Strength Analysis According to the Financial Strength rating, Copart Inc's robust balance sheet exhibits resilience against financial volatility, reflecting prudent management of capital structure. With an Altman Z-Score of 36.58, Copart Inc exhibits a strong defense against financial distress, highlighting its robust financial stability. With a favorable Debt-to-Revenue ratio of 0.03, Copart Inc's strategic handling of debt solidifies its financial health. Profitability Rank Breakdown The Profitability Rank shows Copart Inc's impressive standing among its peers in generating profit. Copart Inc's Operating Margin has increased (18.48%) over the past five years, as shown by the following data: 2019: 35.09; 2020: 37.00; 2021: 42.21; 2022: 39.28; 2023: 38.42. Furthermore, Copart Inc's Gross Margin has seen a consistent rise over the past five years, as evidenced by the data: 2019: 43.99; 2020: 45.69; 2021: 49.88; 2022: 45.88; 2023: 44.89. This trend underscores the company's growing proficiency in transforming revenue into profit. Copart 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, Copart Inc demonstrates a strong commitment to expanding its business. The company's 3-Year Revenue Growth Rate is 20.1%, which outperforms better than 84.54% of 983 companies in the Business Services industry. Moreover, Copart 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 20.7, and the rate over the past five years is 21.1. This trend accentuates the company's continued capability to drive growth. Unveiling the Investment Potential of Copart Inc (CPRT): A Comprehensive Analysis of Financial Metrics and Competitive Strengths Conclusion Given Copart Inc's strong financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GuruFocus Score Rating highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential outperformance. This analysis suggests that Copart Inc is a promising investment opportunity, poised for substantial growth in the near future. 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. Intuitive Surgical Inc (NASDAQ:ISRG) has recently been in the spotlight, drawing interest from investors and financial analysts due to its robust financial stance. With shares currently priced at $300.57, Intuitive Surgical Inc has witnessed a daily gain of 1.7%, marked against a three-month change of -8.78%. A thorough analysis, underlined by the GuruFocus Score Rating, suggests that Intuitive Surgical Inc is well-positioned for substantial growth in the near future. Unveiling the Investment Potential of Intuitive Surgical Inc (ISRG): A Comprehensive Analysis of Financial Metrics and Competitive Strengths Decoding 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. Intuitive Surgical Inc has been assigned the following ranks: 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 high ranks in financial strength, profitability, and growth, and slightly lower ranks in GF value and momentum, GuruFocus assigned Intuitive Surgical Inc the GF Score of 99 out of 100, which signals the highest outperformance potential. Understanding Intuitive Surgical Inc's Business Intuitive Surgical Inc, with a market cap of $105.61 billion and sales of $6.66 billion, develops, produces, and markets a robotic system for assisting minimally invasive surgery. It also provides the instrumentation, disposable accessories, and warranty services for the system. The company has placed more than 8,000 da Vinci systems in hospitals worldwide, with nearly 5,000 installations in the U.S. and a growing number in emerging markets. Its operating margin stands at 24.34%, indicating a healthy profitability. Story continues Unveiling the Investment Potential of Intuitive Surgical Inc (ISRG): A Comprehensive Analysis of Financial Metrics and Competitive Strengths Financial Strength Breakdown According to the Financial Strength rating, Intuitive Surgical Inc's robust balance sheet exhibits resilience against financial volatility, reflecting prudent management of capital structure. The company's Interest Coverage ratio is significantly high due to no long-term debt. With an Altman Z-Score of 34.78, Intuitive Surgical Inc exhibits a strong defense against financial distress, highlighting its robust financial stability. With a favorable Debt-to-Revenue ratio of 0, Intuitive Surgical Inc's strategic handling of debt solidifies its financial health. Profitability Rank Breakdown The Profitability Rank shows Intuitive Surgical Inc's impressive standing among its peers in generating profit. The company's strong Predictability Rank of 4.0 stars out of five underscores its consistent operational performance, providing investors with increased confidence. Growth Rank Breakdown Ranked highly in Growth, Intuitive Surgical Inc demonstrates a strong commitment to expanding its business. The company's 3-Year Revenue Growth Rate is 11.2%, which outperforms better than 61.23% of 730 companies in the Medical Devices & Instruments industry. Moreover, Intuitive Surgical 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 6.8, and the rate over the past five years is 10.7. This trend accentuates the company's continued capability to drive growth. Unveiling the Investment Potential of Intuitive Surgical Inc (ISRG): A Comprehensive Analysis of Financial Metrics and Competitive Strengths Conclusion Given the company's strong financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GuruFocus Score Rating highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential outperformance. Intuitive Surgical Inc's robust financial health, consistent profitability, and impressive growth trajectory make 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. Lennar Corp (NYSE:LEN) recently reported a daily gain of 1.92%, contrasting with a three-month loss of 3.93%. The company's Earnings Per Share (EPS) stands at 13.49. This article seeks to answer the question - is Lennar Corp fairly valued? The ensuing analysis provides a deep dive into the company's valuation, financial strength, and growth prospects. Let's get started. Company Introduction Lennar Corp is the second-largest public homebuilder in the United States, primarily catering to first-time, move-up, and active adult homebuyers. With a significant presence in mortgage financing and related services, Lennar Corp has also made strides in multifamily construction and housing-related technology startups. The company's current stock price is $116.96, with a market cap of $33.20 billion. This price closely aligns with Lennar Corp's fair value (GF Value) of $117.4, suggesting a fair valuation. Unveiling Lennar (LEN)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Understanding GF Value The GF Value is a proprietary measure of a stock's intrinsic value, calculated based on historical trading multiples, a GuruFocus adjustment factor, and future business performance estimates. If a stock's price is significantly above the GF Value Line, it is overvalued, and its future return is likely to be poor. Conversely, if it is significantly below the GF Value Line, its future return will likely be higher. For Lennar Corp, the stock is estimated to be fairly valued, signifying that the long-term return of its stock is likely to be close to the rate of its business growth. Unveiling Lennar (LEN)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Assessing Financial Strength The financial strength of a company is crucial in mitigating the risk of permanent capital loss. Key indicators of financial strength include the cash-to-debt ratio and interest coverage. With a cash-to-debt ratio of 0.86, Lennar Corp ranks better than 61.32% of 106 companies in the Homebuilding & Construction industry. The overall financial strength of Lennar Corp is 7 out of 10, indicating a fair financial position. Story continues Unveiling Lennar (LEN)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Profitability and Growth Investing in profitable companies, especially those with consistent profitability over the long term, poses less risk. Lennar Corp has been profitable for the past 10 years, with an operating margin of 17.43%, ranking better than 80.73% of 109 companies in the Homebuilding & Construction industry. The company's profitability is rated 9 out of 10 by GuruFocus, indicating strong profitability. Another critical factor in company valuation is growth. Lennar Corp's average annual revenue growth is 18.5%, ranking better than 76.24% of 101 companies in the Homebuilding & Construction industry. The 3-year average EBITDA growth is 43.2%, which ranks better than 77.66% of companies in the industry. Evaluating ROIC vs WACC Comparing a company's return on invested capital (ROIC) to its weighted cost of capital (WACC) is another effective way to assess its profitability. If the ROIC is higher than the WACC, it indicates that the company is creating value for shareholders. Over the past 12 months, Lennar Corp's ROIC was 14.55, while its WACC came in at 9.91. Unveiling Lennar (LEN)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide Conclusion In summary, Lennar Corp's stock is estimated to be fairly valued. The company's financial condition is fair, its profitability is strong, and its growth ranks better than 77.66% of companies in the Homebuilding & Construction industry. For a more detailed look at Lennar Corp's financials, you can check out its 30-Year Financials here. Discover high-quality companies that may deliver above-average returns with reduced risk on the GuruFocus High Quality Low Capex Screener. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Long-established in the Business Services industry, Upwork Inc (NASDAQ:UPWK) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. However, it has recently witnessed a daily loss of 4.09%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of 36.65%. 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 Upwork Inc. Upwork Inc (UPWK): 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 Upwork Inc the GF Score of 69 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential. Upwork Inc: A Snapshot of the Business Upwork Inc is a United States-based company that operates an online marketplace that enables businesses to find and work with highly-skilled independent professionals. The company develops a platform for hiring and freelancing purposes. Its product offerings include Upwork Basic, Upwork Plus, Upwork Business, Upwork Enterprise, and Upwork Payroll. The business generates revenue from Talent and Clients across the USA, India, the Philippines, and the rest of the world. Substantial income is derived from providing services to Clients. Story continues Upwork Inc (UPWK): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential Financial Strength Analysis Upwork Inc's financial strength indicators present some concerning insights about the company's balance sheet health. Upwork Inc has an interest coverage ratio of 0, which positions it worse than 0% of 801 companies in the Business 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 2.55, which is below the safe threshold of 2.99. Although this does not imply immediate danger of financial distress, the stock may face some financial struggles if the Altman Z-score drops below 1.81. Profitability Analysis Upwork Inc's low Profitability rank can also raise warning signals. Upwork Inc's Operating Margin has declined over the past five years ((-103,572.00%)), as shown by the following data: 2018: -4.62; 2019: -6.23; 2020: -6.00; 2021: -10.78; 2022: -14.98; . 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 Upwork Inc has a strong reputation in the Business Services 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. Global private financial group provides financial advisory services for CardLab ApS, a Danish smart card cybersecurity firm providing next-generation biometric technologies. CardLab With an impressive portfolio of biometric card solutions and a full backend authentication system, CardLab has a strong IP patent estate, including over 200 patents globally. San Francisco, California, USA, Sept. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- US Capital Global Securities LLC, an affiliate of US Capital Global, has provided customized financial advisory services for Danish high-security smart card provider CardLab ApS (CardLab or the Company), culminating in a $10 million offer for convertible note financing. CardLab provides best-in-class technical design and manufacturing support for biometric card solutions, including scalable security platforms and seamless integration into existing cybersecurity infrastructure. With offices in San Francisco, Dallas, Miami, New York, London, Milan, and Dubai, US Capital Global is a full-service private financial group with an established track record in investment banking, asset management, and capital formation services. All securities are offered by the group through its FINRA-member, SEC-registered broker-dealer affiliate, US Capital Global Securities LLC. With an impressive portfolio of biometric card solutions and a full backend authentication system, CardLab has a strong IP patent estate, including over 200 patents globally. The Company has received grants from the EU Innovation Council and other institutional investors. Significantly, CardLab secured approved pilot orders from the US Department of Defense but was in the end hampered by supply chain issues caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic. We take great satisfaction in having delivered customized financial advisory solutions to CardLab, stated Lisa Terk, Senior Vice President at US Capital Global. Our efforts encompassed the strategic design of a $10 million capital raise round for CardLab, generating substantial interest and multiple offers. Additionally, we strategically positioned the Company to access new markets through a dedicated field office in Fort Worth, Texas, while fostering connections with prominent financial institutions. Story continues CardLab was designated the Most Secure and Innovative Cyber Security Protection Solution by Business World Magazine, alongside several other industry awards by World Business Outlook, including Best Card Security Solutions Provider Denmark 2022. About CardLab ApS Based in Denmark, CardLab is a world-leading technology provider to the digital identity and powered smart card industry. CardLab develops and commercializes ISO 7810 compliant secure card products, including a fingerprint card authentication solution for payment, ID, access control, blockchain and cryptocurrency platforms, and cyber security. To learn more, visit www.cardlab.com. About US Capital Global US Capital Global Securities LLC (USCGS) is the FINRA-member broker-dealer division of US Capital Global that acts as placement agent for growth-stage companies, projects, and investment funds. Since 1998, US Capital Global has been committed to providing lower middle market businesses and investors with sophisticated debt, equity, and investment opportunities usually available only to larger middle market companies and institutional investors, using the latest FinTech and RegTech innovation. US Capital Global entities manage direct investment funds and provide wealth management and capital raise services. USCGS or its affiliates may provide advice to, be compensated by, may have other business relationships with, or may from time to time acquire, hold, or sell a position in the securities of the issuers mentioned herein. Any such offer or solicitation shall be made only pursuant to the confidential private placement memorandum. View USCGS Form CRS at www.uscapglobalsecurities.com/crs.html. To learn more about US Capital Global, email Jeffrey Sweeney, Chairman and CEO, at jsweeney@uscapglobal.com or call +1 415-889-1010. Attachment CONTACT: Vanessa Guajardo US Capital Global +1 415 889 1010 media@uscapglobal.com The U.S. House Financial Services Committee announced last Friday that it will discuss a new bill to prevent the issuance of a central bank digital currency (CBDC). See related article: Nepal central bank plans CBDC within two years Fast facts Committee Chairman Patrick McHenry announced that the markup, a session where committee members examine the proposal in detail and possibly offer amendments, of the Digital Dollar Pilot Prevention Act will take place on Sept. 20. #NEW: Chairman @PatrickMcHenry announces a markup of legislation to strengthen American national security and prevent the issuance of a central bank digital currency. Read more https://t.co/oy3oASJYkA Financial Services GOP (@FinancialCmte) September 16, 2023 The bill was first introduced by Alex Mooney, a Republican Party representative, on May 26. This bill would prohibit the Federal Reserve from establishing, carrying out, or approving a program intended to test the practicability of issuing a CBDC, Mooneys announcement said. CBDCs pose major privacy and government surveillance concerns. He also claimed that China is utilizing its CBDC pilot program to monitor citizens and curtail banking access for government dissenters. In July, the Federal Reserve said it had not decided to issue a CBDC and added that legal authorization remains a prerequisite for such developments. The Feds statement came as it launched FedNow, a real-time interbank payment settlement service for individuals and businesses, on July 20. According to the U.S. central bank, FedNow is unrelated to digital currencies. See related article: Asias richest man bets on blockchain, CBDC Wall Streets analysts make their reputations by the quality of their stock notes, and some of them stand tall above their peers. The best analysts bring a sharp eye to the table, and a combination of solid knowledge and deep experience that lends credence to their stock calls. So, when those top analysts start selecting particular stocks as sound choices for investors, we should all take notice. And now, the Streets top analyst, Truists Neal Dingmann, has been doing just that. Dingmann holds the #1 rating out of more than 8,500 active stock analysts, a rating based on the 76 percent of his stock calls that were successful in the last 12 months. An investor following Dingmanns advice over that 12-month period would have realized an impressive 31% return. Dingmann is an energy stock expert and he has been selecting his picks for the coming months, so lets take a closer look at some of his sector calls and why you might want to ride his coattails. Further adding to these stocks appeal, according to the TipRanks data, all are also rated as Strong Buys by the analyst consensus, with double-digit upside potential. Here are the details, along with Dingmanns comments. Kodiak Gas Services, Inc. (KGS) Well start in the natural gas segment, where Kodiak Gas Services is a billion-dollar-plus player in the natural gas industry, offering compression services. This is a vital step in moving gas from the production sites through the pipelines to the refineries and end users. Kodiak is a contract provider of large-scale compression services and infrastructure in the US gas sector, and describes its services as critical to our customers ability to reliably produce natural gas. The company was founded in 2010, and today holds leading positions in many of the major production basins across the US. The company has particularly extensive activities in the Permian Basin of West Texas. In addition to its direct compression services, Kodiak also designs and builds gas compressor stations; the firms revenue-generating fleet of compressor equipment totals over 3 million horsepower. Story continues This past summer, Kodiak entered the realm of publicly traded stocks with an IPO that closed on July 3. The shares debuted at $16 per share, a value seen as low the company had originally set an initial share price between $19 and $22. The sale totaled 16 million shares and netted the company $231.4 million in cash proceeds. On August 9, Kodiak released its first quarterly financial results as a public company, and the results showed improving fundamentals. The top-line revenue of $203.3 million was up over 14% year-over-year. On the bottom line, net income almost doubled vs. the same period last year and resulted in EPS of 30 cents. Kodiaks operations have been generating increased free cash flow over the last 12 months; in the year-ago quarter, the company registered a $2.2 million FCF loss, but the current report shows a positive FCF exceeding $33 million. For Dingmann, Kodiaks solid niche position and its recent proven ability to generate cash are key points for investor consideration. The Truist analyst writes, Kodiak delivered solid results for its first quarter as a public company with equally as positive remaining 2023 expectations that include increased spend/earnings. The company continues to benefit from a tight gas compression market with limited competition along with company efficiencies that continue to result in nearly 100% horsepower utilization. KGS remains one of few midstream companies with demand likely to continue to outpace supply for the coming quarters resulting in solid pricing power. We forecast continued solid FCF driving attractive shareholder return and further debt repayment. These comments come along with a Buy rating on this newly public stock, and a $24 price target that suggests a 35% upside potential in the next 12 months. (To watch Dingmanns track record, click here.) In its short time as a public entity, Kodiak has already picked up 8 analyst reviews, with a 7 to 1 breakdown favoring Buys over Holds giving the stock its Strong Buy consensus rating. The $17.82 trading price and $24.25 average price target combine to imply a gain of 36% lying in wait for the coming year. (See Kodiaks stock forecast.) Northern Oil and Gas (NOG) Next up is Northern Oil and Gas, an exploration and production company operating in three of North Americas most important hydrocarbon production basins: the Williston Basin of Montana and the Dakotas; the Permian Basin of Texas-New Mexico; and the Marcellus formation of western Pennsylvania. These geological formations hold the oil and gas reserves that, about 15 years ago, pushed the US to a leading position among the worlds oil and gas producers. Northern has made the best of its strong holdings and operations in these rich hydrocarbon regions. The bulk of the companys operations, 64% of the firms total activities, are in the ~183,500 net acres of its Williston Basin holdings. Northerns Marcellus and Permian positions total 62,000 and 10,000 acres respectively and make up 16% and 20% of the companys hydrocarbon production. Of the companys output, 60% is in liquids, mainly crude oil but also including natural gas liquids, while 40% is natural gas. Getting to results, we find that Northern realized $416.5 million in oil and gas sales during the second quarter of this year, a total that was down 24% year-over-year but came in almost $4.4 million above the estimates. The companys adjusted net income per common share, its non-GAAP EPS, was listed as $1.49. While down from $1.72 in the year-ago period, the 2Q23 EPS was 15 cents better than the forecast. NOG generated $47.6 million in free cash flow during the quarter. These results were based on a record quarterly production figure of 90,878 barrels of oil equivalent per day. Production was up 4% from 1Q23, and 25% from 2Q22. In the weeks since the 2Q23 release, Northern has announced the closure of its latest acquisition of Northern Delaware Basin assets from Novo Oil & Gas. The transaction cost Northern a total of $468.4 million in cash, and was conducted jointly with Earthstone Energy. Northern and Earthstone have entered into a joint operating agreement regarding future development of the Novo assets. Turning again to top analyst Dingmann, we find that he draws attention to Northerns cash flow and its acquisition moves. Dingmann writes in his latest note on the stock, Northern is in a unique position after completing several, what we consider to be accretive acquisitions, seeing baseline production improve and having a solid balance sheet. We forecast the company to generate a 24 FCF yield of nearly 30%; one of the highest in our coverage group despite NOG recently hitting its 52-week high stock price. The company is in an enviable position of being the largest non-operated E&P uniquely positioned for any future accretive deal. Looking ahead, the Truist analyst puts a Buy rating on NOG, and his $56 price target implies it will appreciate by 39% over the next year. The Strong Buy consensus rating on NOG is based on 9 recent reviews from the Streets analysts, including 8 to Buy and 1 to Hold. The average price target here is $47.11 and the selling price is $40.14; together, these figures point toward a 17% one-year upside potential. As an added bonus, NOG also offers a dividend. The current payout stands at $0.38 per quarter and yields ~3.1%. (See Northerns stock forecast.) Chord Energy (CHRD) Last on our list of Dingmanns picks is Chord Energy, another operator in the Williston Basin of the northern Plains. Chords activity within the larger Williston is focused primarily in North Dakota, with some extensions into Montana. With approximately 963,000 net acres of holdings, Chord is a major player among the regions oil and gas producers. Currently, Chord has 4 rigs in operation, using unconventional methods to release oil from the underground reservoirs. A majority of the companys reserves are comprised of oil, some 57%; much of the rest is natural gas and natural gas products. Chord has a history of expanding its footprint through strategic acquisitions, and in May of this year the company made an agreement with XTO energy to that end. Chord will acquire approximately 62,000 net acres from XTO, in the Williston, for $375 million in cash. A large portion of the new acreage, 77%, is undeveloped. The cash nature of that transaction shows Chords underlying strength the company can generate plenty of liquid assets. In 2Q23, the company had net cash from operations of $408.2 million, and adj. free cash flow totaling $105.3 million. Chords cash reserves and cash flow allowed it to afford the XTO purchases, and in Q2 the company also returned $87 million in capital to shareholders. The capital return was made, in part, through a $1.36 base-plus-variable common share dividend payment, sent out on August 29. The annualized dividend of $5.44 gives a yield of ~3.4%. Elsewhere, the company showed mixed financial results recently, with a strong top-line and a bottom-line miss in 2Q23. The revenue figure, of $912.07 million, was up 15.5% y/y, and beat the forecast by $259.7 million. At the bottom line, the non-GAAP EPS figure of $3.65 was down sharply from the $7.30 reported in the prior-year quarter, and was 18 cents below expectations. The earnings miss did not worry Dingmann, who sees Chords production capabilities and FCF as the chief factors for investors consideration. Dingmann writes, Chord continues to produce some of the stronger Bakken wells driven by a combination of improved well spacing, extensive analogs, efficient drilling and completions, along with a host of other improvements. The result has been consistently improved well returns in most of their key areas resulting in notable FCF that allows for material shareholder return and a recent accretive acquisition. We forecast continued stable production with potential for further accretive deals that we would prefer to be only in-basin. These comments complement Dingmanns Buy rating, and his price target, set at $221, implies that the shares will appreciate by 40% over the next 12 months. Zooming out, we find that Chords 8 recent analyst reviews include 7 Buys against a single Hold, for a Strong Buy consensus rating. The shares are selling for $158.23 and their $183.78 average price target suggests a 16% increase on the one-year horizon. (See Chord Energys stock forecast.) To find good ideas for stocks trading at attractive valuations, visit TipRanks Best Stocks to Buy, a newly launched tool that unites all of TipRanks equity insights. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the featured analysts. The content is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any investment. Long-established in the Retail - Cyclical industry, Wayfair Inc (NYSE:W) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. However, it has recently witnessed a daily loss of 7.93%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of 21.19%. 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 Wayfair Inc. Wayfair Inc (W): 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 Wayfair Inc the GF Score of 68 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential. Wayfair Inc: A Snapshot of Its Business Wayfair Inc, with a market cap of $7.58 billion, engages in e-commerce in the United States (86% of 2022 sales), Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Ireland. At the end of 2022, the firm offered more than 40 million products from more than 20,000 suppliers under the brands Wayfair, Joss & Main, AllModern, Birch Lane, and Perigold. Its offerings include furniture, everyday and seasonal decor, decorative accents, housewares, and other home goods. Wayfair was founded in 2002 and began trading publicly in 2014. Story continues Wayfair Inc (W): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential Financial Strength Analysis Wayfair Inc's financial strength indicators present some concerning insights about the company's balance sheet health. Wayfair Inc has an interest coverage ratio of 0, which positions it worse than 0% of 780 companies in the Retail - Cyclical 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 1.76, 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 0.31 indicates a struggle in handling existing debt levels. Profitability Analysis Wayfair Inc's low Profitability rank can also raise warning signals. Wayfair Inc's Operating Margin has declined over the past five years ((-37,732.00%)), as shown by the following data: 2018: -6.98; 2019: -10.19; 2020: 2.55; 2021: -0.60; 2022: -10.76; . Conclusion Given the company's financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GuruFocus Score Rating highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential underperformance. It's crucial for investors to 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. For value-focused investors, stocks priced below their intrinsic value are a golden opportunity. One such stock that warrants attention is Wayfair Inc (NYSE:W). Currently priced at $67.38, Wayfair (NYSE:W) recorded a daily loss of 5.1% and a 3-month increase of 21.62%. According to its GF Value, the stock's fair valuation stands at $115.64. Understanding the GF Value The GF Value represents the current intrinsic value of a stock based on GuruFocus's exclusive methodology. The GF Value Line on our summary page provides an overview of the stock's fair value. This calculation is based on three factors: historical multiples that the stock has traded at, GuruFocus's adjustment factor based on the company's past returns and growth, and future estimates of business performance. The GF Value Line represents the stock's fair value, around which the stock price will most likely fluctuate. Is Wayfair (W) Too Good to Be True? A Comprehensive Analysis of a Potential Value Trap However, before making an investment decision, investors should consider a more in-depth analysis. Despite Wayfair's seemingly attractive valuation, certain risk factors should not be ignored. These risks are primarily reflected through its low Altman Z-score of 1.76. These indicators suggest that Wayfair, despite its apparent undervaluation, might be a potential value trap, emphasizing the importance of thorough due diligence in investment decision-making. Decoding the Altman Z-Score The Altman Z-score, invented by New York University Professor Edward I. Altman in 1968, is a financial model that predicts the probability of a company entering bankruptcy within a two-year time frame. The Altman Z-Score combines five different financial ratios, each weighted to create a final score. A score below 1.8 suggests a high likelihood of financial distress, while a score above 3 indicates a low risk. Company Overview: Wayfair Wayfair engages in e-commerce in the United States (86% of 2022 sales), Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Ireland. As of 2022, the firm offered over 40 million products from more than 20,000 suppliers under the brands Wayfair, Joss & Main, AllModern, Birch Lane, and Perigold. Its offerings include furniture, everyday and seasonal decor, decorative accents, housewares, and other home goods. Founded in 2002, Wayfair began trading publicly in 2014. Story continues Is Wayfair (W) Too Good to Be True? A Comprehensive Analysis of a Potential Value Trap Wayfair's Low Altman Z-Score: A Breakdown of Key Drivers A dissection of Wayfair's Altman Z-score reveals potential financial distress. The Retained Earnings to Total Assets ratio, which provides insights into a company's capability to reinvest its profits or manage debt, shows a declining trend in Wayfair's historical data, indicating its diminishing ability to reinvest in its business or effectively manage its debt. This negatively impacts its Z-Score. The EBIT to Total Assets ratio, a crucial barometer of a company's operational effectiveness, shows a descending trend in Wayfair's historical data. This reduction suggests that Wayfair might not be utilizing its assets to their full potential to generate operational profits, negatively affecting the company's overall Z-score. Wayfair's asset turnover ratio, which reflects how effectively a company is using its assets to generate sales, also shows a decreasing trend in the past three years. This drop in the ratio can signify reduced operational efficiency, potentially due to underutilization of assets or decreased market demand for the company's products or services. This shift in Wayfair's asset turnover underlines the need for the company to reassess its operational strategies to optimize asset usage and boost sales. Conclusion In conclusion, despite Wayfair's seemingly attractive valuation, its low Altman Z-score and declining ratios suggest potential financial distress, making it a possible value trap. Thorough due diligence is crucial before making an investment decision. GuruFocus Premium members can find stocks with high Altman Z-Score using the following Screener: Walter Schloss Screen . This article first appeared on GuruFocus. KOKOMO, Ind. Buried deep in the wallet of Shawn Fain is a well-worn pay stub of one of his two grandfathers. Its a reminder of where the new United Auto Workers president comes from. Two of his grandparents were General Motors retirees at Kokomo and one worked at Chrysler starting in 1937. Nine years later in 1946, the UAWs negotiation strategy with the then-Big Three American automakers was to bargain with one, and then use that template for the other two. Fain is now in the vortex of the American labor movement. He was elected as president of the UAW in March after beginning his career as an electrician at the Chrysler Kokomo Casting Plant. His election was seen as a sea change in the world of automaking. Hes always been a labor activist. He was always locally popular with rank and file members, said former Kokomo Mayor Greg Goodnight, who worked for Haynes International and was a union president at the same time as Fain was at Chrysler (now a unit of Stellantis). Brian Howey But Fain is negotiating in Detroit far differently than his predecessors. The UAWs contracts at the Detroit automakers expired at 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 14 . He said on Wednesday that while there has been progress, the four sides are still far apart. In the year before the Great Recession put Chrysler and GM on the brink of extinction in 2008, Shawn was anti-ratification due to the agreement implementing tiers and cutting wages for workers in half, the UAW website said. Many times, at council meetings, he was ostracized for speaking up against the agreements as they didnt serve the best interest of the Membership. Fain was asked on CNN last week whether a strike at the Detroit automakers could damage the recovering U.S. economy. In the last decade, they made a quarter of a trillion dollars in profits, Fain said. Its not that were going to wreck the economy. Were going to wreck their economy, the one that works for the billionaire class. It doesnt work for the working class. Story continues Fain also isnt reticent about wading into American politics. This comes as the House Republican Study Group formerly headed by U.S. Rep. Jim Banks advocated a shift from Republican advocacy of big business to that of blue-collar workers. Asked on MSNBC whether he plans to endorse President Joe Biden for reelection, Fain responded, Well make that decision when the time is right. Our endorsements are going to be earned, not freely given. He then pivoted to the other person we talked about, the other candidate, meaning Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump. In 2020, Trump carried Howard County (home to GM and Stellantis plants in Kokomo) with 65% of the vote, to Bidens 33%, up from 63% in 2016. In Allen County (GM at Fort Wayne), in 2020 it was Trump 55%-43% over Biden. In Lawrence County (GM at Bedford) Trump carried it with 74%. In Grant County (GM at Marion) Trump won with 68%. Ill never forget in the 16 race when he spoke about workers in Michigan, union jobs in the Midwest, he said we need to do a rotation in this country," Fain said. "We need to move those jobs to other places that pay less money and those people will be begging for their jobs back. Thats not a person I want as my president. UAW negotiations: What Detroit automakers have to give the UAW to get a deal, according to experts UAW membership woes: UAW membership peaked at 1.5 million workers in the late 70s, here's how it's changed The Wall Street Journal observed on Tuesday: Unions arent the force in the U.S. that they used to be. That doesnt mean they cant pack a punch. In the coming days, well find out how hard that punch is. Brian Howey is a senior writer and columnist for Howey Politics Indiana/State Affairs. Find Howey on Facebook and Twitter @hwypol. This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: UAW strike: Will Shawn Fain's different negotiation tactics work? There are no striking UAW workers demanding significant pay hikes out front of Tesla's (TSLA) Gigafactories. And investors appear to be appreciating what that could mean for Tesla's profits. Tesla stock is up over 7% since the beginning of September, outperforming a 4% rise in Ford (F) and a 1.3% gain for General Motors (GM). The relative outperformance of Tesla's stock versus the big two Detroit names has begun to widen since the UAW strike went into effect four days ago. Tesla famously doesn't have a unionized workforce, the opposite of its legacy auto-making rivals who are now dealing with a potential catastrophe. Wedbush analyst and Tesla bull Dan Ives thinks the legacy players will face years of mounting costs due to pressure from the UAW and as a result, weak profits. "The big issue for GM and Ford as well as investors is around if anywhere near a ~40% wage increase gets approved/agreed this will be a major headwind on the cost front and ultimately in some way be passed down to the consumer and thru EV prices," Ives added. "The costs of EV vehicles out of Detroit is a major advantage going after mass adoption with any $3k, $5k, $7k, etc. added to the slew of vehicles coming out would results in demand churn in our opinion." In other words, it would be fertile ground for Tesla to wrestle away market share with its entry-level Model 3 and other offerings. United Auto Workers (UAW) members walk a picket line during a strike at the Ford Motor Company Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Mich., Friday, Sept. 15, 2023. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya) With no end in sight to the UAW's calculated strikes at Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis (STLA) amid a push for a 40% pay hike, Wall Street thinks the financial impact to all three is mounting. Citigroup analyst Itay Michaeli estimates a strike at GM's Wentzville assembly plant through September will zap operating profits this year by $140 million. The analyst sees a similar financial impact on the striking Ford assembly plant in Michigan. The costs for each could surge if the UAW under the leadership of vocal auto critic Shawn Fain widens its strike to more plants. Doing so runs the risk of stunting sales while fixed costs remain bloated, a powerful combination that could aggressively eat through the cash positions of Detroit's Big Three. Story continues "No one wins in a strike, particularly if it's prolonged," former Chrysler CEO Bob Nardelli told Yahoo Finance Live (video above). "You never make up the wages that you lost. You never make up the customers that you may have lost. And the impact could be devastating." Brian Sozzi is Yahoo Finance's Executive Editor. Follow Sozzi on Twitter @BrianSozzi and on LinkedIn. Tips on deals, mergers, activist situations, or anything else? Email brian.sozzi@yahoofinance.com. Click here for the latest stock market news and in-depth analysis, including events that move stocks Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance Long-established in the Semiconductors industry, Wolfspeed Inc (NYSE:WOLF) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. However, it has recently witnessed a daily loss of 4.92%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of -20.97%. 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 Wolfspeed Inc. Wolfspeed Inc (WOLF): A Deep Dive into Its Financial Health and Future Prospects 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 Wolfspeed Inc the GF Score of 57 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential. Wolfspeed Inc: A Snapshot of the Company's Business Wolfspeed Inc, with a market cap of $5.2 billion, is involved in the manufacturing of wide bandgap semiconductors. It is focused on silicon carbide and gallium nitride materials and devices for power and radio-frequency (RF) applications. The company serves applications such as transportation, power supplies, inverters, and wireless systems. Geographically, it derives a majority of revenue from Europe and also has a presence in the United States; China; Japan; South Korea, and other countries. The company's sales stand at $921.9 million, but it has an operating margin of -38.21%, indicating challenges in profitability. Story continues Wolfspeed Inc (WOLF): A Deep Dive into Its Financial Health and Future Prospects Financial Strength Breakdown Wolfspeed Inc'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 646 companies in the Semiconductors 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 0.77, 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 0.71 indicates a struggle in handling existing debt levels. The company's debt-to-equity ratio is 2.58, which is worse than 97.84% of 788 companies in the Semiconductors industry. A high debt-to-equity ratio suggests over-reliance on borrowing and vulnerability to market fluctuations. Profitability Breakdown Wolfspeed Inc's low Profitability rank can also raise warning signals. Wolfspeed Inc's Operating Margin has declined over the past five years ((-379,119.00%)), as shown by the following data: 2019: -11.50; 2020: -40.30; 2021: -41.34; 2022: -31.39; 2023: -38.22. Additionally, Wolfspeed Inc's Gross Margin has also declined over the past five years, as evidenced by the data: 2019: 45.28; 2020: 33.67; 2021: 31.32; 2022: 33.41; 2023: 30.32. This trend underscores the company's struggles to convert its revenue into profits. Growth Prospects A lack of significant growth is another area where Wolfspeed Inc seems to falter, as evidenced by the company's low Growth rank. Lastly, Wolfspeed Inc predictability rank is just one star out of five, adding to investor uncertainty regarding revenue and earnings consistency. Wolfspeed Inc (WOLF): A Deep Dive into Its Financial Health and Future Prospects 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 Wolfspeed Inc has a strong reputation in the Semiconductors industry, its current financial health and future prospects indicate potential challenges that may limit its outperformance. 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. JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) elected new members and leadership to its all-volunteer board of directors. Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Ken Hunzeker succeeds Kathleen Widmer as board chair, and Lt. Col. (Ret.) Bill Selman is the new vice chair. In addition, Capt. (Ret.) Florent Groberg, senior director for Azure Government Mission Engineering; Master Gunnery Sgt. (Ret.) Scott H. Stalker, founder and CEO of S2 Stalker Solutions; and Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Lindsey Streeter, senior vice president of veteran and military affairs program lead for Bank of America, were elected to the board. Wounded Warrior Project welcomes new board leadership and directors. Hunzeker, who served in the Army for 35 years, including deputy commanding general of U.S. forces in Iraq, joined the WWP board in 2020 and served most recently as vice chair. He is the former CEO and president of Vectrus, an infrastructure and global logistics company. Previously, Hunzeker served as vice president of government relations at ITT Defense. Hunzeker has been honored as a Distinguished Graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Selman also joined the WWP board in 2020. He is the managing director of Graham Company, one of the country's most extensive insurance and employee benefits brokers. He served five years in various leadership and staff positions in the U.S. Army's combat arms units. In 1988, Selman transferred from active duty to the U.S. Army Reserve and began a 10-year career with Mobil Oil. He retired from military service in 2009 but continues to give back to his community as a volunteer with various nonprofit organizations. Incoming directors Groberg, Stalker, and Streeter add over 69 years of combined military service to WWP's board. Groberg earned his commission as an infantry officer in 2008 and trained in both U.S. Army Airborne and Ranger schools. He received the Medal of Honor, the highest military honor in the United States, for saving the lives of his comrades during a suicide bomber attack while deployed to Afghanistan in 2012. After serving over seven years, Groberg was medically retired as a captain from injuries sustained in that attack. Post-service, he leverages his robust experiences to increase business efficiencies and productivity. He currently serves as a commissioner to the American Battle Monuments Commission. He received his master's degree in management from the University of Maryland University College. Story continues Stalker's 31-year career in the U.S. Marines Corps led him to many locations, including Somalia, Iraq, and Afghanistan combat operations. He was a command senior enlisted leader at U.S. Space Command before retiring in August 2023. As a national security expert, Stalker supports several clients and nonprofits, including the National Defense University as a senior fellow, and other customers in the intelligence community, cybersecurity sector, and Space Operations. He has a master's degree in cybersecurity and attended the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, where he became a Secretary of Defense Strategic Thinkers Program CAPSTONE graduate. Streeter joined Bank of America in 2016 after retiring from the U.S. Army as a highly decorated command sergeant major with over 31 years of military service. At Bank of America, Streeter leads veteran and military affairs and is the lead consultant for the bank's Veteran Retention Initiative. He has a master's degree from the University of Arkansas Grantham and is a George W. Bush Institute for Leadership Excellence graduate. Streeter was the Military Times' 2023 Veteran of the Year. WWP bids farewell to board members Kathleen Widmer, Juan Garcia, and Will Reynolds and thanks them for their dedication to and support of WWP. During their tenure, they helped guide WWP's latest strategic plan, which ensures the organization is positioned to continue its mission of serving wounded warriors for years to come. "This year marks 20 years of service for Wounded Warrior Project. We are fortunate to have a dedicated group of accomplished leaders on our board of directors. Their perspectives, insights, and guidance have a tremendous impact," said WWP CEO Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Mike Linnington. "We are grateful to Kathy, Juan, and Will for their service and are excited to work with Ken, Bill, Florent, Scott, Lindsey, and the other directors who will play vital roles in guiding our evolution to meet the growing needs of wounded warriors and their families and caregivers for the next 20 years and more." About Wounded Warrior Project Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers helping them achieve their highest ambition. Learn more. Wounded Warrior Project(R) Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/wounded-warrior-project-announces-new-board-leadership-and-directors-301928896.html SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project The driver in a crash in which two Spotsylvania County sisters were killed earlier this year has been indicted on two counts of involuntary manslaughter. Najee Nasir Edwards was directly indicted Monday by a grand jury. He had not been arrested as of Monday night. According to police and court records, Edwards was carrying three passengers in a 2005 Honda Accord on March 11 when the single-vehicle crash took place in the area of River Road and Musket Ridge Lane in Spotsylvania. Dawn Donnelly, 16, and her sister, Alexyss Scott, 18, both died as the result of injuries sustained in the crash. Both victims were students at Riverbend High School. Edwards was critically injured in the crash, while his front-seat passenger, a 17-year-old South Carolina girl, sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Police said at the time that the Honda was heading east on River Road when the driver lost control in a curve, struck a tree trunk that was just off the road and overturned. The car then went into an embankment and turned back onto its tires before eventually catching on fire. Two Spotsylvania deputies arrived minutes after the crash and pulled one victim out before rescue workers arrived and got two others out. One victim had been ejected from the car. An affidavit for a search warrant filed by Detective J. Hanrahan states that the surviving passenger told police that Edwards, who was 18 at the time, was speeding and that hed been asked several times to slow down. Police determined that the Honda reached speeds up to 91 mph on the winding two-lane road, and that one of the sisters was chatting with a friend during the ride and told the friend that she was scared. Two other motorists told police that the Honda passed them on a double-yellow line moments before the crash. Involuntary manslaughter carries a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years. The cost to address a longtime pesky intersection in Spotsylvania County has increased before the work has even started. The tiny stretch of Harrison Road between Gordon Road and Old Plank Road is set to be widened from two to four lanes. That work will require the state to buy right-of-way from property owners, which includes sizeable chunks of front yards. One house has already been removed for the project. The project is in the right-of-way phase now, with the Virginia Department of Transportation negotiating with property owners. The projects original cost estimate was $11.9 million. That figure is expected to increase to a range of $12.4 million to $13 million, according to a report for an agenda item last week at the Spotsylvania Board of Supervisors meeting. The county is responsible for any increase in the projects cost. The agenda item, which was approved without comment, calls for the county to take part in the states revenue sharing program as a way to offset the increased cost of the project. The program could help cut that cost increase possibly by half. Even with that help, the county could still have to pay an additional $550,000 for the project. The widening is supposed to fix the backup problems at the intersection caused by the tiny stretch of Harrison, an old road design squished by development that cant handle the traffic anymore. Spotsylvania has supervisors who often scoff at the high cost of road projects, but there hasnt been much consternation voiced about a $13 million project to widen about 800 feet of roadway while tearing up front yards to do it. Has anyone ever taken a birds eye view of the intersection? The intersections form a triangle, with intersecting points at Harrison and Gordon; Gordon and Old Plank; and Old Plank and Harrison. With the right kind of engineering, could that triangle be converted into a circleas in traffic circle? A roundabout conversion would require no widening of any of the roads as all have two lanes. The short stretches of Harrison and Old Plank roads could be converted to one-way traffic. The existing traffic lights could manage the traffic. Maybe this is pie in the sky thinking. Maybe it would work. The new COVID-19 vaccine shots will be rolling out across the country soon after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention voted to recommend the updated booster to anyone who is 6 months and older. Im talking with the experts with the state health department about what you need to know and when the new boosters will be available in Colorado. "They were just approved at the federal level (last week) and we've been told that they are going to start shipping soon, said Scott Bookman, the senior director for public health readiness and response, Department of Public Health and Environment. We could have some in the state as early as this week, but we certainly expect supply to increase over the coming weeks and there will be enough vaccine for everybody who wants to get this booster." The updated COVID-19 vaccines target the omicron variant XBB.1.5. "As the virus evolves, our vaccines need to evolve as well, and so the formulation being released right now is tuned to the virus that has been circulating predominantly across the country, said Bookman. As we approach fall, health officials are anticipating an increase in cases, along with the flu and RSV. "Across the country, and in Colorado, we have seen a steady increase in COVID cases over the last several weeks nothing like what we have seen in previous waves of the pandemic and we are entering into respiratory virus season here in the coming weeks and coming months. So, we do anticipate seeing increases in all of these circulating viruses, which is why it is so important for people to go ahead and get this dose as soon as they can, said Bookman. I asked Bookman what we can expect this season. "It's always a little challenging to compare year over year, as we've seen differences in testing practices across the state and across the country. So, the metric we're always able to look at is hospitalizations, said Bookman. Today, there would have been approximately 120 people hospitalized with COVID. That is far from the week of 1,800 that we saw in some of the most severe waves. The message that we want to get out is that for some people COVID is still a very, very serious illness and we want to make sure people are protecting themselves, protecting their loved ones. The best way to do that is to go ahead and get this updated booster." In a recent CBS News poll, only 43% of people plan to get the new booster. I asked what health officials can say to folks who may have COVID "fatigue." "We can understand why people would be tired of talking about COVID. It has been a long couple of years, and I think we're all myself included we're happy to see that pandemic emergency response phase in the rearview mirror, said Bookman. That being said, COVID is still here and COVID is going to be with us, and we need to make sure that as individuals and as a community that we are taking steps to reduce the impacts of this virus. So it's critical that people stay up to date on their vaccine, stay home when you're sick, good hand-washing practices, early testing and if you test positive reach out to your health care provider to see if you are eligible for some of the medications like Paxlovid. "You can go to your pharmacy, you can go to your health care provider and you can get your flu shot and COVID shot together, he added. Find a list of vaccine providers and other information on the states website, COVID19.Colorado.gov. With the leaves starting to turn golden, theres plenty of opportunities to go leaf-peeping. While many opt for a car ride or a hike, there are several unique ways to see the fall colors around Colorado Springs. Heres some ideas: Horseback rides Ride through the picturesque autumn trees during fall on tours offered by Old Stage Riding Stables. With trails that will take you on horseback through Pikes National Forest, you have a chance to get an intimate experience with the changing leaves. The scenic autumn ride even led to the stables saying, Come and enjoy the gold, without the rush. Old Stage Riding offers six rides a day, meaning theres plenty of different lighting throughout the day. More information can be found at comtnadventure.com. Helicopter Hop on a helicopter at Royal Gorge Helitours for a special fall excursion that gives a great view of the aspens. Located about an hour outside of Colorado Springs, several tours are offered with views along Pikes Peak and the Royal Gorge. The helicopter is a great way to see the colorful leaves from above, especially during their peak. More information is available at royalgorgehelitours.org. Bike tour Bike Gold Camp Road with Pikes Peak Bike Tours for a stunning tour of fall colors in Colorado Springs. The tour starts at Pikes Peak Adventure Center and will take you through the historic gold mining railway line right through North Cheyenne Canon Park. This three-hour tour is beginner friendly, and will surround you with the golden hues fall in Colorado is known for. More information can be found at bikepikespeak.com. Cog Railway Enjoy a train ride up to the summit of Pikes Peak via the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. Get 9 miles of views as you chug up to the summit of Pikes Peak. The aspens are always a highlight as you make your way up and down Americas Mountain between late September and mid-October. In fact, its peak season right now. More information can be found at cograilway.com. Commanders across the military are now required to help troops get mental health care as soon as possible to help prevent suicides under a new law called the Brandon Act. For those in crisis The Military Crisis Line is 988, followed by 1, or access an online chat by texting 838255. Military OneSource also provides 12 counseling sessions with a community provider. Sessions can be requested at www.militaryonesourceconnect.org/. Its designed to address an often reported concern of commanders preventing service members from trying to get help, explained retired Army Lt. Col. Damian McCabe, director of behavioral health for UCHealths southern region. He is also leading a pilot project to reduce veteran suicides. As an officer for 24 years, McCabe heard how commanders would suggest subordinates needed to wait to seek mental health care or told them to "suck it up." The commanders' instructions likely did not come from meanness or spite, he said, but rather the cultural belief that seeking care would be a sign of weakness. In military culture "weakness is something that has to be addressed and trained out of individuals," he said. For years, the military has worked to equate seeking help with strength as it has seen deaths by suicide rise. It's a problem with no single root cause or solution, the Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks said earlier this month, but the DOD is working to promote connectedness, belonging and community as part of its prevention work. In 2016, 280 active duty troops died by suicide, a number that rose through 2020 when 383 troops died by suicide. The number came down a bit in 2021, when 327 troops died by suicide. Last year, 332 troops died by suicide. The Army has seen the highest number of deaths and it is also the largest branch. This data does not include suicides in the reserves or National Guard. In Colorado Springs, 11 active-duty troops died off base last year and 12 active-duty troops have died off base through the end of August, El Paso County Coroner Leon Kelly said. The coroner's office cannot track suicide deaths on the five bases. Among those who died nationally was Naval Petty Officer 3rd Class Brandon Caserta, who took his own life in 2018 after working for a leading petty officer in Norfolk, Va., who treated his staff like dogs, according to a letter he wrote prior to his death. After his death, his parents worked to pass the Brandon Act and ensure those in need of help could get it immediately. Passed in late 2021, the act is now reaching implementation across the military's branches. In the Air Force, the Brandon Act requires commanders to call mental health clinics on base and give them the name and contact information for a service member and ask the staff to contact the individual and set them up with an appointment, said Maj. Timothy Pagano, with the 21st Medical Group that serves Peterson and Schriever Space Force bases and Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station. In the past, commanders could only request evaluations that covered job fitness rather than general care. The new method can help build on positive relationships between airmen, guardians and supervisors who might be able to encourage someone who is nervous about coming in for help for the first time, he said. "So they're really able to harness that relationship and say, 'Hey, I'm happy to help you out with that. Let me make the call for you,'" he explained. The Air Force is committed to setting up appointments within 24 hours under the Brandon Act and the commanders are not involved in or informed about care after the first call is made, he said. Peterson and Schriever implemented the Brandon Act last month, Pagano said, and trained leaders across the installations within a week. Sign Up for free: Military Brief Your weekly local update on local military news and events, sent straight to your inbox. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. The clinic has seen some referrals to care thus far through the act, but none so far for crisis care. The most common reasons for referrals are anxiety and depression, Pagano said. The Space Force installations also have chaplains, military family life counselors and financial planners to support airmen and guardians. The Army said in a news release earlier this month leaders with the rank of staff sergeant or above are charged with quickly and confidentially connecting soldiers to care. Soldiers do not have to provide a reason to request a referral to care. The release did not provide a window for commanders to refer soldiers to care, saying instead "mental health providers will conduct the mental health evaluations as soon as possible." Fort Carson referred all questions about the Brandon Act to the Pentagon, which supplied the news release. The post's Installation Director of Psychological Health Lt. Col. Shamecca Scott also highlighted work the base has done to improve access to mental health care this summer, introducing a new pilot program to connect soldiers with the right level of care for their needs. Through the pilot, known as the Targeted Care Initiative, a behavioral health technician provides soldiers with information about their care options, such as military and family life counselors and non-medical counselors through Military OneSource, she said in a written statement. Soldiers can also be scheduled for a behavioral health appointment. Evans Army Community Hospital has a range of services, such as an addiction medicine outpatient program, psychological health intensive outpatient program and inpatient behavioral health unit. Service members can also receive referrals for care off-post, such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, an evidence-based treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder. For family members of those serving and struggling with mental health conditions, the National Alliance on Mental Illness in Colorado Springs is restarting free classes taught by peers with similar experiences. "NAMI classes offer a safe space to talk about challenges people are experiencing, including thoughts of suicide. We cant prevent suicide unless we talk about suicide," said Angela Sweeten, family program coordinator with the nonprofit in town. She noted that those struggling with thoughts of suicide can find relief in talking about it, being taken seriously and being provided with support. "Starting that conversation could literally save someones life," she said. The classes also cover problem solving and communication, managing crisis, taking care of yourself and managing your stress, supporting loved ones, up-to-date information on mental health conditions and how they affect the brain, among other topics. The next class for 15 to 20 participants will start during the end of January. NAMI also offers weekly support groups for those living with mental health conditions and their family members. More info about classes and support groups can be found at namicoloradosprings.org/. Kathleen Hicks' title has been corrected. Colorado College has implemented a transfer initiative for students at schools in states that have passed or are considering anti-diversity, equity and inclusion legislation. Colorado College's Healing and Affirming Village and Empowerment Network, or HAVEN, is designed to make transferring easier for students in anti-DEI states, CC officials said in a news release last week. We are making a special, targeted effort to make it easier for students who may not have had the opportunity to consider the climate of those states at the time they applied, because the legislation is fairly new, said Rosalie Rodriguez, CCs associate vice president for equity and belonging, in the news release. Diversity, equity and inclusion offices in higher education often spearhead services tailored to students of various races, genders, sexual orientations, cultures and abilities. Some college administrators also consider so-called DEI factors when admitting students, providing scholarships or deciding which faculty to hire and promote. Republican lawmakers in at least a dozen states have proposed more than 30 bills this year targeting diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in higher education, an Associated Press analysis found using the bill-tracking software Plural. The measures have become the latest flashpoint in a cultural battle involving race, ethnicity and gender that has been amplified by prominent Republicans, including former President Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, potential rivals for the GOP presidential nomination in 2024. Since 2022, five states Florida, North Carolina, North Dakota, Tennessee and Texas have enacted laws prohibiting certain DEI programs and/or practices in colleges and universities, Rodriguez said. For students who find themselves in a situation where they feel its no longer welcoming or safe for them, or that its not going to be the most conducive learning environment, we are removing many of the barriers that many students face during the transfer process, Rodriguez said. Among those removed barriers are financial aid, housing and the transfer of academic credits, Rodriguez said. The HAVEN initiative offers qualified students full financial aid consideration, full credit for transferrable coursework and guaranteed on-campus housing, according to the release. Support systems like counseling and identity-affirming programs will be in place to help smooth the transition. Sign up for free: Springs AM Update Your morning rundown of the latest news from Colorado Springs and around the country overnight and the stories to follow throughout the day delivered to your inbox each evening. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Earlier this year, in response to a directive from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, the University of Texas system suspended new DEI policies at its 13 campuses, according to a report from the Texas Standard. Texas A&M has banned diversity and equity statements from job applications. In March, Florida's DeSantis signed into law Senate Bill 266. The law blocks public universities from diverting state or federal funds toward programs or campus activities that advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion or promote political or social activism. Meanwhile, Colorado College President L. Song Richardson said she wants the liberal-arts private college to be a national leader in equity, inclusion and educational access. We dont do things the way other schools do, Richardson told The Gazette in previous reporting. And were proud of that. In order to qualify for HAVEN, students must be degree-seeking with the intent to transfer to, and graduate from, Colorado College, officials said. The transfer application period ends Oct. 15, 2023 for January 2024 enrollment, and March 1, 2024 for August 2024 enrollment. Reaction from universities in two states was muted. "Thank for providing us with the opportunity to comment, but we have nothing to add," Cynthia Roldan, director of strategic communications at the University of Florida, said by email. "We dont have anyone currently who is prepared to address this topic," said David Dodds, director of communications at the University of North Dakota. Unfortunately, our website is currently unavailable in your country. We are engaged on the issue and committed to looking at options that support our full range of digital offerings to your market. We continue to identify technical compliance solutions that will provide all readers with our award-winning journalism. Research findings that made news last week about the difficulty of developing a breath test for pot-intoxicated drivers must have been welcomed by a couple of narrow interests the criminal-defense bar and Big Marijuana itself. The former, because it might make it harder to convict My client seemed high as a kite? Prove it! and the latter, because the industrys well-oiled lobby might have an easier time, for now, maintaining the fiction that its cash crop isnt behind surging traffic fatalities. As for the rest of Colorado, theres little comfort in having fewer tools for law enforcement to curb the mounting threat that marijuana poses to life and limb on our states roads. People are dying on Colorado roads at a rate we have not seen in decades, Col. Matthew Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol, announced at a news conference in July. It is just appalling to think about how regular this loss of life has become. Packard said the 754 lives lost in traffic crashes statewide last year reflect a 12% surge over Colorados 672 traffic deaths in 2022 and represent a 41-year high. And, speaking of high though its no laughing matter there can be no question that marijuanas debilitating effect on motorists is in part responsible. Pot use in fact is taking a big toll on our roads. An extensive analysis of 26,000 impaired-driving cases in Colorado in 2019 showed 45% of drivers tested positive for more than one substance, according to the state's Division of Criminal Justice. The most common combination was alcohol with THC the psychoactive chemical in marijuana followed by alcohol combined with other drugs, the analysis found. Sign up for free: Gazette Opinion Receive updates from our editorial staff, guest columnists, and letters from Gazette readers. Sent to your inbox 12:00 PM. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Such data typically is derived in part from blood, urine and hair samples collected well after the fact of an impaired drivers arrest. But those tests cannot be conducted in the field. Thats where breath analysis comes in. While use of breathalyzers by law enforcement is standard procedure in conducting roadside sobriety tests for alcohol use, nailing down the science of breath analysis for THC has proved elusive. As The Gazette reported last Wednesday, a preliminary study by researchers at the University of Colorado-Boulder suggests developing a breathalyzer test for cannabis users will be a challenge. In our pilot research, we found that in regular cannabis users, their breath around an hour after use is not looking a whole lot different than their baseline measure on days that they havent used at all, Cinnamon Bidwell, a CU Boulder professor of Psychology and Neuroscience, said in a news release. That suggests that this isnt going to be easy, and a lot more careful research needs to be done to get it right. Thats frustrating. But we can rest assured the State Patrol as well as local law enforcement across the state are using other approved measures for determining driver impairment when it comes to marijuana use. The statistical correlation between the carnage on Colorados roadways and the spread of retail marijuanas availability since legalization in 2012 is too stark to leave any doubt. And law officers are seeing the result when they pull over suspected, impaired drivers as well as when the respond to traffic tragedies. Recent state and local sales-tax collections suggest pot sales have been in decline, and we welcome the development. Lets hope it is reflected in a similar decline in deaths on Colorado roads. I was at East High School in 1999 when the Columbine shooting rocked this country. When I returned home to Tattered Cover, with our headquarters across the street from East, I had aspired to build a safe space for students and teachers to share a love of books. I never expected more tragedy just right outside our doors in multiple incidents of violence. I am running for office because I believe we can do so much more and that Denver Public Schools (DPS) has to take seriously the criticism that it has failed on this front from parents, educators, and teachers alike. We must both embrace the need for safety now and start a path toward the school district we want to become. The first step is to acknowledge that we need School Resource Officers (SROs) in schools right now. Both safety data and public sentiment echo this need. First, incidents involving students with guns are on the rise. And more than 70% of the public want SROs in our schools. We may have concerns about their deployment, staffing, and the deleterious impact but sadly we need support at this time given the failure to build a real plan. The second step is to be truthful about why we need it at this time: DPS removing SROs without any clear plan, outcome measures or protections for students of color who were disproportionately impacted by a police presence without guardrails in 2020 was a colossal mistake that both put our students and teachers at risk and greatly eroded the publics confidence in our schools. We needed a plan and community partnership to make it possible. This must be our goal immediately. We must admit that the biggest obstacle we face is that we are too polarized to accomplish our shared goal of removing guns and violence from our schools. We have a group of political actors who take pleasure in antagonizing, dividing, and immaturely flip flopping on issues to stay relevant. We, as a public, have an inability to look away and subsequently suspend the reality that we as a city can be united to accomplish amazing things. So how do we get to work right away? First and foremost, we must aspire to have gun free schools. The case for gun-free schools is straightforward. Guns have no place in educational institutions. While the Second Amendment protects the rights of gun owners, the safety of our students should be the primary concern. We have fire drills, safety protocols, and locked doors to protect our students from external threats, but what about threats that might be present within? To continue this path is to encourage the growing threat of mental health crisis that we know too many of our students are faced with. Its a tragic reflection of our times that we even have to discuss this, but the reality is clear: for our children to be safe, our schools must be gun-free. Secondly, we must reject the binary of either security or no security in schools. This is a false choice made by empty politicians. This isnt impossible Denver just needs to look around. Boulders new school safety advocates have been wildly successful and were designed with the community. Aurora has rescoped the SRO role completely (check out this report from the Rose Foundation). As a Board member, I will lead learning trips to visit Boulder, Aurora, Camden, and other cities that have leveraged community design to build new solutions for schools. I am a strong advocate for leveraging community-design processes like Boulder did to create tailored safety solutions. No two communities are alike, and what might work for one might not necessarily work for another. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, lets involve the very people who are affected: students, families, and educators. Together we can learn and work to help identify specific areas of concern, suggest practical interventions, and design what comes next for DPS. Nothing can stop us from doing this besides politicians trafficking in false pretense and I will work tirelessly to ensure we make it happen. Sign up for free: Gazette Opinion Receive updates from our editorial staff, guest columnists, and letters from Gazette readers. Sent to your inbox 12:00 PM. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Lastly, I believe that the presence of police in our schools should be considered an emergency last resort though an important one. Over-policing can inadvertently create an atmosphere of tension and mistrust, detracting from the primary mission of schools: education, growth, and community building. While its undeniable that law enforcement has a critical role, especially in moments requiring immediate security interventions, they should not be an ever-present force in our educational environments. Here is my promise to our city: that by the end of my first term (2027), we will have transitioned to a new designed student safety model that will ensure effective safety and where SROs are no longer needed not because we have banned them from schools but because we have built a better way. This allows time to work to get guns out of school, support students and educators, partner with parents to ensure the current issues are mitigated, and to plan appropriately with our community. While we need SROs now to transition to this new approach, I commit to encouraging a process to move toward a whole new way of operating. I am running for office because I believe so deeply in this city and its potential. Never again should parents and students fear coming to school because DPS doesnt have a plan to commit deeply to their safety. Kwame Spearman is a candidate for the at-large seat on the Denver Public Schools Board of Education on this falls ballot. He is the son of a DPS teacher and a proud DPS graduate. He is also the co-owner of Tattered Cover. Gas tank full? Camera ready? Camping or lodging plans arranged for the venture far afield? Its that time of year again. Here are some of Colorados best drives for fall colors. Kenosha Pass: Its a go-to for Front Range folks an easy day trip from Denver out on U.S. 285. The highway travels past Conifer toward Fairplay, never rising above the trees; the glistening leaves stay with you all the way. Peak to Peak Highway: The highway runs 55 miles between Central City and Estes Park. A common launch point is closer to the middle from Nederland, outside Boulder. The Rocky Mountain National Park skyline delights with the aspens. Guanella Pass: Go on a weekday if you can. As the colors change, the crowds rush to this 22-mile tour from Georgetown to Grant. Kebler Pass: The rugged but mostly flat road near Crested Butte weaves through a tunnel of some of the tallest aspen stands you might ever see. The Dyke is a bucket-list image a throne-like outcrop over a splash of red and yellow. Sign up for free: News Alerts Stay in the know on the stories that affect you the most. Sign Up For Free View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Highway of Legends: The states newest national scenic byway designated in 2021 is often overlooked. Colorado 12 connects La Veta and Trinidad and offers stunning geology, Spanish and mining history and an aspen-sprinkled panorama above 11,000 feet. Independence Pass: Colorado 82 is an iconic stretch from Twin Lakes, roaming up and over the Continental Divide. You may want to proceed to Aspen, where maybe youve made reservations to take the shuttle to the Maroon Bells. Rabbit Ears Pass: It stresses drivers on snowy days but only relaxes and charms on days when the sun shines over grateful, golden forests. U.S. 40 between Kremmling and Steamboat Springs is a stunner. Million Dollar Highway: From Ouray, U.S. 550 rises toward historic mining remnants and glowing groves on the way to Silverton. Warning: Without guardrails along the narrow, steep side of the road, it can be a bit nerve-wracking. Grand Mesa Scenic Byway: The road tours 63 miles over the worlds largest flattop mesa, which happens to be home to abundant aspens. From Palisade, the drives journeys through forest and lakes to the Lands End overlook. Owl Creek Pass: This is the southwest Colorado country that defined True Grit. Deep in the San Juan Mountains outside Ridgway, fans of the original film might recognize the idyllic scenery along this dirt track beloved by anglers and campers. Welcome to Court Crawl, Colorado Politics' roundup of news from the third branch of government. The federal appeals court that covers Colorado held a judges-only meeting two weeks ago and received a visit from a U.S. Supreme Court justice, plus the state Supreme Court returns this week for oral arguments. 10th Circuit judicial conference The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit, which is headquartered in Denver, holds annual conferences like its sibling circuits do. In even years, the conferences are a big to-do in Colorado Springs, featuring lawyers who practice in the six-state region of the circuit and extensive media coverage. However, in odd years, the conference is just for the judges. The newest member of the court and the head of the programming committee, Judge Veronica S. Rossman of Colorado, described to Colorado Politics what happened at this year's early September conference in Santa Fe. There were sessions covering the work of the Supreme Court, sentencing reform and election law. Even though the 10th Circuit doesn't see a lot of election law challenges, "judges not just appellate judges, but district judges in the 10th Circuit need to be thinking about how to understand the recent Supreme Court jurisprudence and to anticipate there might be cases concerning election law issues in their courts," Rossman said. Justice Neil M. Gorsuch also made an appearance. A 10th Circuit judge from Colorado before his elevation to the Supreme Court, Gorsuch reportedly did not talk about any of the controversies engulfing the institution. Instead, he spoke about civics education and his time as a circuit judge. Speaking of judicial appearances, last week U.S. District Court Judge Regina M. Rodriguez, an appointee of the Biden administration, spoke at a continuing legal education event at Coors Field, right before a Rockies ballgame. The event was sponsored by the law firm of Williams Weese Pepple & Ferguson and the Association of Corporate Counsel. A spokesperson for ACC told Colorado Politics it was not allowed to attend. Colorado Supreme Court returns from vacation The state Supreme Court is back this week and will hear oral arguments in six cases starting tomorrow: People v. Owens: A man convicted in 2008 of murdering two witnesses to a crime is claiming racial discrimination in jury selection and improper evidence during trial should require reversal of his convictions. Stone v. People: Can police officers enter a home with consent, leave, then re-enter for a different reason without gaining consent again? Kaiser et al. v. Aurora Urban Renewal Authority et al.: Arapahoe County's assessor and the state tax administrator are asking the justices to overturn a lower court's ruling that would decrease tax revenue available in urban renewal areas to local governments. United States et al. v. Golden et al.: This is a water law case involving the federal government and multiple jurisdictions across Colorado. University of Denver v. Doe: Can universities be held liable for failing to deliver a "thorough, impartial and fair" investigation into a student's alleged sexual misconduct on campus? Denver v. Board of County Commissioners of Adams County et al.: Adams County is attempting to force Denver to use a noise monitoring system at Denver International Airport, as it agreed to do decades ago, but Denver argues Adams County waited too long to take it to court. The Supreme Court issued three decisions last week. First, it walked back a ruling from the state's Court of Appeals that found lawyers pursuing certain class action lawsuits could be sued for inflammatory statements they make when publicizing their litigation. Second, the justices decided there is no constitutional requirement that there be strong evidence of guilt before criminal defendants can enter an Alford plea (a guilty plea made while the defendant maintains his innocence). Sign up for free: News Alerts Stay in the know on the stories that affect you the most. Sign Up For Free View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Finally, counties aren't required to contact tribal nations to see if a child in a welfare case is American Indian, as long as the allegations of tribal heritage are so vague they don't provide a "reason to know" that the child is American Indian. In other Supreme Court news, Justice Monica M. Marquez was one of six attorneys who received an award from the Colorado Women's Bar Association Foundation for their work to improve wellbeing in the legal profession. "We really fronted the importance of wellbeing in the (judicial) department," said Justice Melissa Hart, the emcee for the awards ceremony. "Turns out, an award brings out the competitive spirit in all of us. So, weve encouraged people to think about how we can do better." The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a case out of El Paso County that questions whether criminal defendants may challenge the legality of restitution orders years after their convictions. In federal news The 10th Circuit determined a state trooper's stated reasons for investigating a driver for drug trafficking the driver planned to stop at a religious center in Denver, he had a messy vehicle and was "overly cooperative" during the traffic stop didn't establish reasonable suspicion. Because a trial judge issued a jury instruction that didn't accurately describe the law, the 10th Circuit reversed the jury's $39,000 award to an oilfield worker. By 2-1, a 10th Circuit panel restricted the ability of judges to step in and address unfair outcomes in the privately run arbitration system. The federal judge located in Colorado Springs has agreed to mediate a First Amendment dispute between the Woodland Park School District and its teachers' union, which could result in revisions to a restrictive communications policy recently imposed on district employees. Following the lead of many other cases, a federal judge issued an injunction from Colorado authorizing the seizure of bootleg merchandise at the remaining tour dates of musician Jelly Roll. Vacancies and appointments Applications are due by Oct. 6 for those wishing to succeed retiring District Court Judge Patricia Herron in the 18th Judicial District (Arapahoe, Douglas, Elbert and Lincoln counties). Before her 2016 appointment, Herron was a trial judge in Oklahoma, and also a tax appeal judge there. Miscellaneous proceedings The Colorado Republican Party is seeking to intervene in a state lawsuit that could result in Donald Trump's disqualification from the 2024 ballot, due to his role in encouraging the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol. On break Court Crawl will take a break next week and will return in October. The Colorado Community College System honored four state legislators as "legislators of the year" for sponsoring a bill to create a free college program for high-demand careers. House Speaker Julie McCluskie, Rep. Rose Pugliese, Sen. Janet Buckner and Sen. Perry Will were recognized during the CCCSs state board meeting on Wednesday. The annual award celebrates legislators who work to expand access to community college and reduce barriers facing students. The legislators' bill, House Bill 1246, spends $38.6 million to provide free education to students pursuing credentials in firefighting, law enforcement, nursing, early childhood education, elementary education and forestry at community, district and technical colleges. On behalf of the state board and our 13 colleges, I want to publicly acknowledge the hard work and the vision of these legislative leaders, said Joe Garcia, chancellor of CCCS. HB 23-1246 is truly a landmark piece of legislation, and it couldnt come at a more urgent time for our state. This historic investment in our students will strengthen Colorados workforce for years to come. Beginning this fall, CCCS will distribute the money to Colorado's 19 community and technical colleges to cover tuition, books, fees and school materials for qualifying students. If there is money left over, it can be used to pay for a student's housing, child care, transportation or food. Colorado's universal Pre-K program nears 60% enrollment below expectations Sign up for free: News Alerts Stay in the know on the stories that affect you the most. Sign Up For Free View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. The bill also allocates $5 million to create two new short-term degree nursing programs at the Community College of Aurora and Red Rocks Community College, and $1.4 million to fund apprenticeship programs in the construction industry. The initiative intends to bolster the workforce in high-skill sectors that face "dire shortages" across Colorado, the state said. About 4,000 job vacancies for registered nurses and 3,700 positions for elementary and secondary educators remain open every year, according to the Colorado Workforce Development Council. "Since the pandemic hit, our workforce in this state has really been through the rinse cycle. There's been a lot of change, a lot of challenge," McCluskie said during debate on the bill. "We have a number of industries that are suffering because of workforce shortages." The bill passed the state legislature in April with only 10 legislators voting against it across both the House and Senate. It received bipartisan sponsorship from Democrats McCluskie and Buckner, and Republicans Pugliese and Will. Colorado Democratic Party endorses Polis' property tax measure Colorado College has implemented a transfer initiative for students at schools in states that have passed or are considering anti-diversity, equity and inclusion legislation. Colorado College's Healing and Affirming Village and Empowerment Network, or HAVEN, is designed to make transferring easier for students in anti-DEI states, CC officials said in a news release last week. We are making a special, targeted effort to make it easier for students who may not have had the opportunity to consider the climate of those states at the time they applied, because the legislation is fairly new, said Rosalie Rodriguez, CCs associate vice president for equity and belonging, in the news release. Diversity, equity and inclusion offices in higher education often spearhead services tailored to students of various races, genders, sexual orientations, cultures and abilities. Some college administrators also consider so-called DEI factors when admitting students, providing scholarships or deciding which faculty to hire and promote. Republican lawmakers in at least a dozen states have proposed more than 30 bills this year targeting diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in higher education, an Associated Press analysis found using the bill-tracking software Plural. The measures have become the latest flashpoint in a cultural battle involving race, ethnicity and gender that has been amplified by prominent Republicans, including former President Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, potential rivals for the GOP presidential nomination in 2024. Since 2022, five states Florida, North Carolina, North Dakota, Tennessee and Texas have enacted laws prohibiting certain DEI programs and/or practices in colleges and universities, Rodriguez said. For students who find themselves in a situation where they feel its no longer welcoming or safe for them, or that its not going to be the most conducive learning environment, we are removing many of the barriers that many students face during the transfer process, Rodriguez said. Among those removed barriers are financial aid, housing and the transfer of academic credits, Rodriguez said. The HAVEN initiative offers qualified students full financial aid consideration, full credit for transferrable coursework and guaranteed on-campus housing, according to the release. Support systems like counseling and identity-affirming programs will be in place to help smooth the transition. Sign up for free: News Alerts Stay in the know on the stories that affect you the most. Sign Up For Free View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Earlier this year, in response to a directive from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, the University of Texas system suspended new DEI policies at its 13 campuses, according to a report from the Texas Standard. Texas A&M has banned diversity and equity statements from job applications. In March, Florida's DeSantis signed into law Senate Bill 266. The law blocks public universities from diverting state or federal funds toward programs or campus activities that advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion or promote political or social activism. Meanwhile, Colorado College President L. Song Richardson said she wants the liberal-arts private college to be a national leader in equity, inclusion and educational access. We dont do things the way other schools do, Richardson told The Gazette in previous reporting. And were proud of that. In order to qualify for HAVEN, students must be degree-seeking with the intent to transfer to, and graduate from, Colorado College, officials said. The transfer application period ends Oct. 15, 2023 for January 2024 enrollment, and March 1, 2024 for August 2024 enrollment. Reaction from universities in two states was muted. "Thank for providing us with the opportunity to comment, but we have nothing to add," Cynthia Roldan, director of strategic communications at the University of Florida, said by email. "We dont have anyone currently who is prepared to address this topic," said David Dodds, director of communications at the University of North Dakota. Colorado Republican Steve Laffey is confident his Herman Cain moment is coming. Since launching the longest of longshot campaigns for the White House in February, the Fort Collins resident and former mayor of Cranston, Rhode Island, has neither registered in the polls nor been in danger of qualifying for the primary debates sponsored by the the Republican National Committee. Undaunted, Laffey is convinced that none of the leading GOP candidates from former President Donald Trump, who has boasted a commanding lead in polls for months, to Trump detractors like former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who has struggled to break out of the single digits have what it takes to win the presidency, even while acknowledging that the Republican Party he once knew is long gone. The voluble 61-year-old supervised the lucrative sale of a wealth management and capital market firm he ran before winning election 20 years ago as mayor of Cranston, a mid-sized Rhode Island city he says was headed toward ruin before he turned its finances around. After an unsuccessful run for a U.S. Senate seat in Rhode Island, Laffey moved his family to Larimer County in 2010 and ran for an open U.S. House seat in 2014 but finished last in the primary. He considered running for governor of Colorado in 2018, but when his daughter was diagnosed with cancer, he moved to Philadelphia for experimental treatment that proved successful. An unabashed anti-Trump fiscal conservative, Laffey says he's the only candidate in any party with a strategy to fix America he produced a documentary called "Fixing America," featuring interviews with "everyday Americans" and believes his campaign is on the verge of taking off. If things go according to plan, Laffey's breakthrough might echo the late Cain's unlikely rise to Republican frontrunner in 2011, though Laffey told Colorado Politics he learned from Cain how to avoid the mistakes that swiftly derailed the former Godfather's Pizza executive's candidacy. "Here's what it's going to look like," Laffey said during a recent, wide-ranging interview. "When someone like Chris Christie is known by all but polls at 2.7% in the national polls, he's going nowhere. When Ron DeSantis goes from 33% to 15% no one's ever made a comeback like that." That's where Cain comes in. "However, in 2011, go to Real Clear Politics Herman Cain was at 0," Laffey said. "And in September, due to a confluence of events and by the way, he became a friend of mine and was a really good guy. But who knows why, I mean, he was at a straw poll in Florida and all of a sudden, there he is, right? So, we don't know why. But I think it's a confluence of events, of everybody getting their chance. And Herman, clearly, God rest his soul, was not ready for the international politics of it, and so forth, when he got his chance. And he told me what he did wrong, and so forth, when I met with him about this in Atlanta." Laffey said his background is bound to turn heads once he breaks into single digits in polls. "So, I hope I get my chance, that people say, 'Hey, you know what, there's a guy he went to Harvard Business School, he is a financial expert, he's had none of his people get arrested, he's never been accused of sexual assault these are bare minimums, I'm sorry." Acknowledging that he lost consecutive races for senator and representative, Laffey said other politicians failed before they made it. "I looks like this: When or if I get to 1% in the polls, or, say, 5% in New Hampshire, let's just say all of a sudden heads turn, because I'm not supposed to be there, and it's going in the right direction. If I get to be 1% in the national polls, I'll be at 3, and when I'm 3, the whole world will change for everybody, because I'm the only person who provides any solutions to fix this country, to enlarge the middle class and get people out of poverty. It's on my website, SteveLaffey.com." It's easy to run for president Laffey is among more than three dozen Republican presidential candidates who reported raising or spending at least some money through the year's second quarter. At last count, more than 500 candidates of all stripes have filed the necessary paperwork to establish presidential campaigns, including Democrats, Libertarians, independents and write-in candidates. Laffey reported raising nearly $50,000 in contributions through June 30, on top of $110,000 he either gave or loaned his campaign. He finished the period with just over $100,000 on hand and has been campaigning heavily in early states Iowa and New Hampshire. But don't expect him to bend the knee to the RNC in order to land a spot in an upcoming debate. The national GOP's requirement that candidates promise to back the party's eventual nominee is a deal-breaker, Laffey said. "I never would have signed the pledge to endorse an unknown candidate, i.e., Donald Trump, and so the RNC has just hung itself on its own petard, whatever that phrase is," Laffey said, mocking the notion that all the Republicans who appeared on stage in Milwaukee pledged to support Trump, even though Trump skipped the debate to sit for an interview with Tucker Carlson. "Donald Trump is a narcissist, and my party better get its act together soon, because a narcissist does stuff like this," Laffey said. Sign up for free: News Alerts Stay in the know on the stories that affect you the most. Sign Up For Free View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. But Trump was far from the only candidate with issues, he said, adding that several second-tier candidates who paid premiums to attract donations in order to meet an RNC requirement might have broken federal election laws. "When these type of people succumb to pressure like this I don't want to be president that bad," he said. "That's why I actually should be the president." As the only candidate from New England, Laffey said, that's where he hopes to see his candidacy break out. "That's my plan, I stick to my plan, and that's what I'm doing," he said. "But if I don't break out because I wasn't willing to succumb to the pressure and sign a document like Chris Christie, and tell people I was lying about it, then so be it," he said. "That's not who I am," he added. Laffey said he's battling what he calls the "least-worst theory," when voters settle for the least worst alternative rather than refusing to cast a ballot for an unacceptable candidate. "They're like, well, Trump's ahead, I'm good with Trump, I want Trump to beat Biden," he said, shaking his head. "Me, I never do the least-worst theory. I never voted for Trump." Laffey said he wrote in the name of his economic advisor in 20216 and wrote in his own name in 2020. He expressed dismay that Trump appears to have gained support from Republican voters since facing multiple indictments. "We've never had someone this far ahead who's getting stronger because he's been indicted," Laffey said, adding that he doesn't know what has to happen before people start caring about the problems he's diagnosed or the solutions he's proposed. Laffey said he also drew inspiration from another past presidential candidate who emerged from far back in the field, although unlike Cain, this one went on to win. There's a chance, he said, that the country could "look for something very new, the way they did in (1975) and found Jimmy Carter, who was, by the way, thought to be at 0% in November of '75 and was never going to win, because it was right for the times. From that moment on in November, people gravitated to Jimmy Carter because he was a kind, gentle man after Watergate, and a guy with no issues, other than whatever normal issues are, right?" Laffey slowed his pace and nodded. "And that's what I hope happens here, and that's what people should get out of this, that that can happen," he said. "And if you don't step into the arena one last time, like me at least put the effort out to help save this country you'd look back and say, 'I should have done that.'" Ernest Luning has covered politics for Colorado Politics and its predecessor publication, The Colorado Statesman, since 2009. He's analyzed the exploits, foibles and history of state campaigns and politicians since 2018 in the weekly Trail Mix column. Midway between state elections, Colorado's top-ticket 2024 primary lineup takes shape | TRAIL MIX Top House Dem Hakeem Jeffries joins Yadira Caraveo for town hall, draws fire from GOP | TRAIL MIX Dave Williams reveals the Colorado GOP's 'Most Wanted Democrats' | TRAIL MIX For the best displays of fall colors, we set a course for the higher country where aspens grow most abundant. On the lower Front Range, state parks are some of the best bases for leaf peeping. We take a look at them here along with other options nearby: Golden Gate Canyon State Park: In about 3 miles, Raccoon Trail loops around dense aspen stands and rewards a sweeping view at Panorama Point. Another great trip: Horseshoe Trail to Frazer Meadow. Closer to Golden, you might get a mix of colors along Clear Creek Trail, a paved path following the creek. There are cottonwoods and oak as well along the trail network of White Ranch Park. Youll have to earn the aspen on the steep Chimney Gulch Trail. Staunton State Park: South and west of Denver, U.S. 285 is the transport to great golden shows. Some of those are tucked in Staunton. The trek to Elk Falls wont disappoint, along with the Mason Creek Trail. About 10 miles away on U.S. 285 is Meyer Ranch Park, a splendid spot for families with aspen in easy reach. Sign up for free: News Alerts Stay in the know on the stories that affect you the most. Sign Up For Free View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Mueller State Park: The aspen envy is endless across this trail system spanning 50-plus miles. A favorite is Cheesman Ranch trail, alternating over 5 miles between woods and meadows and Pikes Peak views. Also consider Elk Meadow and Preachers Hollow trails. Teller County is great for foliage. Fairly more remote and rugged, Crags Trail is a classic hike. Farther along Colorado 67 south is the Horsethief Park trailhead to Pancake Rocks. Closer to Woodland Park is Lovell Gulch, a 5-mile loop, and the aspen-spotted Elder-Fehn Trail at Catamount Ranch. Cheyenne Mountain State Park: If youre prepared and physically fit, Dixon Trail climbs about 5 miles toward the mountaintop to a grand aspen grove along Mountain Loop, which is itself about 2 miles. Lower options for oak and mountain mahogany: Blackmer, Sundance and Soaring Kestral trails. In Colorado Springs, Seven Bridges is a favorite. Hikers greet aspen at just about every creek bridge high in North Cheyenne Canon Park. Ahead of Seven Bridges is the more arduous, also spectacular trip to St. Marys Falls. Leaf peeping in the lower canyon along Columbine Trail. Last week, Julie Korb was hiking around the mountains of Telluride when she came by an unfortunate sight. It was an aspen tree, not one yet showing off the shiny leaves we seek this time of year. Maybe they would never show. I saw the orange hue on the bark, said Korb, who has researched the beloved species as a professor of environmental biology at Durangos Fort Lewis College. Then I looked up at the canopy, and it already had probably 50% crown loss. From looking around at neighboring conifers, Korb could tell a beetle had infiltrated the forest. The orange hue she saw on the aspen was reminiscent of a Cytospora canker, a hint at disease in the beetles wake. The crown loss contributed further to Korbs conclusion: That tree is probably not going to be able to withstand the attack and make it. It was a reminder of the phenomenon found to be sweeping Colorados favorite tree of fall. Around the turn of this century, scientists starting tracking what became called sudden aspen decline. The abbreviation was fitting: SAD. Southwest Colorado was an early epicenter for the research, which spread across the West and other regions home to North Americas most widely distributed deciduous tree. Findings elsewhere matched findings from a report in 2007 authored by U.S. Forest Service plant pathologists out of Gunnison. Rapid dieback and mortality had been observed for years, according to the paper, adding: By 2006 it became clear that the damage was substantial and that it was not the type of mortality typically seen in older aspen stands. The authors cited acute, warm drought, which seemed to be weakening aspens in their fights against insects and pathogens, making them more vulnerable. Losses were most striking in lower elevations and on south- and southwest-facing slopes, across those drier, sun-hit aspects. To me, it was pretty obvious, said Jeff Mitton, professor emeritus at University of Colorado-Boulder, who followed that early literature and studied aspens over his career. It seems to me this is just one of those canaries in the mine for climate change. As the world warms and drought grips the West, it seems to Mitton the underground root system responsible for feeding nutrients up to the canopy is being compromised. Resources are being drained faster in a warming climate, Mitton said. If (trees) are drought stressed, they cant do photosynthesis the way they want to, and that prohibits them from putting away the natural or regular amounts of energy, and so therefore over the years theyre depleting their energy source. Pretty soon, push comes to shove. That underground root system is also behind aspens curious cloning process. Mature trees die, and new stems sprout. They do so fast and dramatically after fire and, its suspected, more slowly following other deaths. This gives them their reputation as a pioneer species, for the way they colonize otherwise ravaged ecosystems. Yes, while aspen is known to be susceptible, it is also know to be resilient. Said Paul Rogers, a leading expert directing the Utah State University-based Western Aspen Alliance: "If it was an animal, you might say this species produces a lot, but it dies a lot." This is where observers have been conflicted over SAD. This summer at the Colorado Aspen Summit an annual gathering of researchers and enthusiasts Bradley Lalande presented an update on the much-watched stands in the states southwest. Lalande is the Forest Services latest plant pathologist to monitor the stands across the San Juan Mountains where SAD concerns first rose. Sign up for free: News Alerts Stay in the know on the stories that affect you the most. Sign Up For Free View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Lalande wrote in an email: Overstory aspen stands continue to deteriorate with a reduction in healthy trees, and an increase in declining (>25% crown loss) and dead trees (recently dead and old snags). He added: With this being said, I am optimistic with the state of regeneration, as there is a substantial amount of regeneration present within our sampled sites. Asked what the data say about how weve come to understand sudden aspen decline, Lalande said: The term sudden is what is hard for me. He referred back to mortality tracked in the early 2000s. Now that we are almost 20 years post the initial onset of decline, the term sudden may no longer fit, he said. The term never fit in the mind of Rogers. The term really got projected out and became this catch-all for death of aspen across the whole West, he said. Sometimes we get ahead of ourselves with these proclamations. Aspen is not immune to a warming climate, he emphasized, and he has long noted another natural imbalance: an unusually high number of deer, elk and cattle munching on young aspen sprouts, cutting new growth. Another concern: Fire has historically been repressed, preventing the life cycle to continue. The SAD narrative over the years has not given enough attention to that regeneration, Rogers said. Its not about the living, mature ones as much as its about what happens next, he said. What happens to the young ones that sprout after a fire or drought die-off? They might not have a chance, Korb said, citing research at Fort Lewis College. What we saw is if a stand got too infected and dead, (the root system) would not signal that resprouting response that it would always normally do, she said. On the other hand, Laland pointed to what he called promising research ongoing by Rocky Mountain Research Station around Paonia. What they observed is that aspen stands, in those areas, continue to resprout regardless of percent of SAD/overstory mortality, Lalande said. More analysis is needed, he said. Korb agreed, saying also new land management could be considered. Dying trees could be removed for new ones to possibly grow, she said. She has seen success from that. She continues to see blighted reminders of SAD, as she did on that recent hike. Its true about their historic resilience, she said: "Aspen is not going to disappear." But however disputed the term, the focus on whatever the plight seems likely to remain. After all, Korb said: Everybody loves aspen. DOHA, Qatar Five prisoners sought by the U.S. in a swap with Iran flew out of Tehran on Monday, officials said, part of a deal that saw nearly $6 billion in Iranian assets unfrozen. Despite the deal, tensions are almost certain to remain high between the U.S. and Iran, which are locked in various disputes, including over Tehrans nuclear program. Iran says the program is peaceful, but it now enriches uranium closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. The planned exchange has unfolded amid a major American military buildup in the Persian Gulf, with the possibility of U.S. troops boarding and guarding commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of all oil shipments pass. Two people, including a senior Biden administration official, said that the prisoners left Tehran on Monday. They spoke on condition of anonymity because the exchange was ongoing. In addition to the five freed Americans, two U.S. family members flew out, according to the Biden administration official. Flight-tracking data showed a Qatar Airways flight take off from Tehrans Mehrabad International Airport, which has been used for exchanges in the past. Several of the former prisoners could be seen climbing the stairs to the flight in video released by Iranian media. The plane later landed in Doha, Qatar. Meanwhile, Nour News, a website believed to be close to Irans security apparatus, said two of the Iranian prisoners had arrived in Doha for the swap. Earlier, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani said that the exchange would take place Monday after nearly $6 billion in once-frozen Iranian assets reached Qatar. Fortunately Irans frozen assets in South Korea were released and God willing today the assets will start to be fully controlled by the government and the nation, Kanaani said. On the subject of the prisoner swap, it will happen today and five prisoners, citizens of the Islamic Republic, will be released from the prisons in the U.S., he added. Five imprisoned citizens who were in Iran will be given to the U.S. side. He said two of the Iranian prisoners will stay in the U.S. Mohammad Reza Farzin, Irans Central Bank chief, later came on state television to acknowledge the receipt of over 5.5 billion euros $5.9 billion in accounts in Qatar. Months ago, Iran had anticipated getting as much as $7 billion. The planned exchange comes ahead of the convening of world leaders at the U.N. General Assembly this week in New York, where Irans hard-line President Ebrahim Raisi will speak. The deal has already opened U.S. President Joe Biden to fresh criticism from Republicans and others who say that the administration is helping boost the Iranian economy at a time when Iran poses a growing threat to American troops and Mideast allies. That could have implications in his reelection campaign as well. On the U.S. side, Washington has said the planned swap includes Siamak Namazi, who was detained in 2015 and was later sentenced to 10 years in prison on spying charges; Emad Sharghi, a venture capitalist sentenced to 10 years; and Morad Tahbaz, a British-American conservationist of Iranian descent who was arrested in 2018 and also received a 10-year sentence. All of their charges have been widely criticized by their families, activists and the U.S. government. U.S. officials have so far declined to identify the fourth and fifth prisoner. The five prisoners Iran has said it seeks are mostly held over allegedly trying to export banned material to Iran, such as dual use electronics that can be used by a military. The two that Nour News said were in Doha were: Mehrdad Ansari, an Iranian sentenced to 63 months in prison in 2021 for obtaining equipment that could be used in missiles, electronic warfare, nuclear weapons and other military gear, and Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani, an Iranian charged in 2021 over allegedly unlawfully exporting laboratory equipment to Iran. The cash represents money South Korea owed Iran but had not yet paid for oil purchased before the U.S. imposed sanctions on such transactions in 2019. The U.S. maintains that, once in Qatar, the money will be held in restricted accounts and will only be able to be used for humanitarian goods, such as medicine and food. Those transactions are currently allowed under American sanctions targeting the Islamic Republic over its advancing nuclear program. Iranian government officials have largely concurred with that explanation, though some hard-liners have insisted, without providing evidence, that there would be no restrictions on how Tehran spends the money. Iran and the U.S. have a history of prisoner swaps dating back to the 1979 U.S. Embassy takeover and hostage crisis following the Islamic Revolution. Their most recent major exchange happened in 2016, when Iran came to a deal with world powers to restrict its nuclear program in return for an easing of sanctions. The West accuses Iran of using foreign prisoners including those with dual nationality as bargaining chips, an allegation Tehran rejects. Negotiations over a major prisoner swap faltered after then-President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew America from the nuclear deal in 2018. From the following year on, a series of attacks and ship seizures attributed to Iran have raised tensions. Meanwhile, Irans nuclear program now enriches closer than ever to weapons-grade levels. While the head of the United Nations nuclear watchdog has warned that Iran now has enough enriched uranium to produce several bombs, months more would likely be needed to build a weapon and potentially miniaturize it to put it on a missile if Iran decided to pursue one. Iran maintains its nuclear program is peaceful, and the U.S. intelligence community has kept its assessment that Iran is not pursuing an atomic bomb. Iran has taken steps in recent months to settle some issues with the International Atomic Energy Agency. But the advances in its program have led to fears of a wider regional conflagration as Israel, itself a nuclear power, has said it would not allow Tehran to develop the bomb. Israel bombed both Iraq and Syria to stop their nuclear programs, giving the threat more weight. It also is suspected in carrying out a series of killings targeting Irans nuclear scientists. Iran also supplies Russia with the bomb-carrying drones Moscow uses to target sites in Ukraine in its war on Kyiv, which remains another major dispute between Tehran and Washington. Photos: AP's top images from the past week China, Malta agree to jointly promote China-EU cooperation Xinhua) 10:20, September 18, 2023 VALLETTA, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- Wang Yi, director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, and Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg agreed here on Saturday that the two sides will work together to promote China-European Union (EU) cooperation. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, said that China and Malta have always respected and treated each other as equals, which has set an example of friendly cooperation between countries of different sizes. With strong political mutual trust and solid public support, the two countries have maintained a momentum of healthy and stable development, Wang said. Noting that China appreciates Malta's repeated affirmation of its firm adherence to the one-China principle, Wang said that China, as a friend and partner, also firmly supports Malta in safeguarding its legitimate rights and interests. China welcomes Malta's serving as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2023-2024 term, and is willing to strengthen multilateral cooperation, jointly uphold the international system with the United Nations at its core, and defend international fairness and justice, Wang said. China-EU cooperation outweighs differences and the two sides are partners instead of rivals, he emphasized, adding that they can fully appreciate and learn from each other. China has consistently supported the EU's strategic independence and European integration, he noted. Since China and the EU established a comprehensive strategic partnership 20 years ago, the scope and depth of cooperation have been continuously expanded, Wang said, adding that both sides should continue to maintain an open attitude, firmly support free trade, reject protectionism, and achieve the positive effects of China-EU cooperation. Wang said he hopes Malta would continue to play a positive role in the development of China-EU relations. Borg noted that Malta-China relationship is strong and enduring. Malta cherishes its friendship with China and consistently adheres to the one-China principle, which is a firm and clear position, he added. He said that Malta looks forward to attending the China International Import Expo (CIIE) to be held in Shanghai, seizing opportunities in the Chinese market and further expanding Malta-China cooperation. Malta agrees that the EU and China are partners, not rivals, and is willing to work together to promote EU-China cooperation and jointly address global challenges, said Borg. (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun) A guilty plea by an Alabama man accused of beating a man unconscious in a parking lot last May has been accepted by the court. According to court records, 34-year-old Laron Robert Martin has pleaded guilty to assault causing serious injury - a class D felony punishable by up to five years in prison. Martin was originally charged with a class C felony assault charge punishable by up to 10 years in prison. The prosecution is recommending a suspended sentence and the payment of a fine and restitution. 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. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for Oct. 16. Data centers, some of the biggest electricity users of all, have signed agreements with Dominion Energy showing they expect to use the equivalent of 35% of the record flow of electricity the utility saw during last years Christmas freeze, a Richmond Times-Dispatch analysis found. Dominion disclosed the agreements in a few pages of a 221-page State Corporation Commission filing. The utility took the unusual step of detailing customer agreements about planned data centers the facilities that house equipment to store and move data, power apps and provide access to computer networks in response to challenges to its long-term forecasts of electricity demand. That growth, which Dominion said would triple from recent years to hit 5% a year over the next 15 to 25 years, could mean an increase in the utilitys carbon emissions. Data centers have signed so-called electric service agreements, which commit a firm to use power, for an additional 5,827 megawatts by 2032, said Alan W. Bradshaw, Dominions vice president for strategic partnerships, in a filing with the SCC. Data centers that are a bit earlier in the multiyear process of developing facilities have signed agreements to pay for the power lines and substations that are necessary to link them to Dominions high-voltage transmission lines that cover an additional 2,008 megawatts, he said. Some of these are for substations that are to come online by 2026. The 7,835 megawatts involved between these two types of agreements are 2.5 times as much as data centers now consume, the filing shows. They are the equivalent of 35% of the load Dominion handled last Christmas during Winter Storm Elliot. One megawatt is enough to power about 250 homes. Companies that are at even earlier stages in developing data centers, meanwhile, have signed agreements to cover Dominions engineering and design costs for the power lines and substations needed to handle even more demand: an additional 8,658 megawatts. The consultant engaged by SCC staff to review Dominions long-term forecast for electricity use had argued that the companys forecast for data center demand was too high. Data center demand is elastic, consultant Bernadette Johnson wrote in testimony submitted to the SCC by its own utility regulation and accounting staff. It will follow low costs of real estate and power prices. She said the increase Dominion forecasts is larger than the actual growth her firm has measured in Texas self-contained electric grid, where gains have been driven by data center expansion, cryptocurrency operations and faster overall job growth than Virginia sees. As a result, she said, Dominions forecast of annual electricity use in 2037 was 50 million megawatt-hours too high. Environmental groups and a clean energy trade association also told the SCC that the plans electricity demand forecast is based on an unrealistic view about how many new data centers are coming. But Bradshaw said the companys forecast through 2032 is based on its electric service agreements and the construction letters of agreement promising to pay for lines and substations. The forecast through 2037 reflects the engineering and design cost agreements, he said. Bradshaw said a real estate consultancy report cited by one of the environmental groups actually said the Dallas-Fort Worth area had data centers drawing 734.4 megawatts with an additional 182.1 megawatts in development, far smaller than the 3,127 megawatts Dominion currently delivers, according to his filing. High-voltage line In a separate matter, an SCC hearing examiner recommended the commission approve Dominions proposed $63.1 million high-voltage line to handle an expected increase in electricity use in Culpeper County from a new data center. In this case, one customer complained that costs to fund such projects to benefit big users were passed on to other customers and were making her electric service unaffordable. She said the cost should be covered instead from Dominions profits. Dominion spokesman Aaron Ruby said the agreements Dominion signs with big users mean they pick up a share of the cost of new lines and substations. He said they pay a proportionate amount for the cost of generating power to meet their needs. Dominions tariffs for residential and large commercial customers account for generation costs differently. Residential customers pay 3.4933 cents per kilowatt hour used for the first 800 kilowatt-hours, and 5.3137 cents during the summer or 2.6942 during the rest of the year for any additional electricity to cover their share of the cost of most of Dominions generating plants. They pay an additional 0.57 cent per kilowatt hour in a surcharge that funds two newer ones and the cost of extending the operating license for the Surry and North Anna nuclear plants. Big commercial customers pay $10.265 for each kilowatt that flows into their facilities. That means a plant drawing 1,000 kilowatts at any one instant would pay $10,265 to cover its share of Dominions generating costs. A residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours over the course of a month would pay $44.31 for generation and the generating plant-linked surcharges the rest of the bill covers the cost of Dominions power lines, fuel and other expenses. Dominions long-term forecast, called an integrated resource plan, is subject to approval by the SCC, which can also order revisions. It is meant as a guide for future SCC actions on Dominions proposals for new plants or energy programs. At the heart of environmentalists concerns is that Dominions latest integrated resource plan suggests the utility may need to keep gas-fired and three large coal-fired plants running to ensure its system can reliably deliver power, and that additional gas-fired plants may be needed, which would mean an increase in its greenhouse gas emissions. The state Senate voted 34-10 on Wednesday for a bill that many in Summerfield will find shocking the de-annexation of about 970 acres off Pleasant Ridge Road for a major housing development. Maybe almost as shocking to some: Senate leader Phil Berger of Rockingham County is pushing for the legislation. The Senates action follows a letter Berger sent on Monday to Summerfield Mayor Tim Sessoms explaining his decision to sponsor the bill, which would make it possible for real estate developer David Couch to transform the land a project residents and elected officials have been steadfastly against. In the letter, Berger wrote that he has a responsibility to step in when a local unit of government fails to take obvious and reasonable steps in the public interest. Berger also labeled Summerfields housing and land-use policies as among the most restrictive enacted by a municipality in North Carolina. Couch, a 20-year resident of Summerfield, is planning to build a mixed-use development named The Villages of Summerfield Farms that includes 600 apartments with other retail and housing options. In a statement, Sessoms said that he is working to secure a meeting with Berger to correct any misunderstandings in his letter about the towns persistent and clear efforts to affect a better outcome for all parties. There was no debate in the Senate during the second reading on Wednesday. The bill is scheduled for a third reading on Sept. 19. If it passes, then it would go back to the House to approve Senate changes, which included adding the Summerfield de-annexation and other proposals that would affect other communities. Summerfield has been here before. The town, incorporated in 1996 with just 1,400 residents, was founded to ward off annexation from the city of Greensboro. In recent years, this community of roughly 11,000 has fought to maintain its rural character and has roundly opposed de-annexation. Its Town Council has rejected Couchs development proposals twice before. Still, the idea of making Summerfield less rural has been a simmering issue for years. Candidates for local office have run on platforms that are either for or against development. And while the occasional subdivision and a smattering of houses gets created, the sheer scope of The Villages of Summerfield Farms has many concerned. Couch, who had previously decreased the number of apartments planned from 1,200 to 600, has told the News & Record that the Triad desperately needs more housing supply, especially with the successful job recruitment efforts by many and the billions of dollars in economic development in the immediate vicinity. Berger and Couch have also voiced criticism of Summerfields lack of sewer and water service. Couch told the News & Record in March that he had offered to bring sewer and water service infrastructure at no cost to existing residents, only to have his offer ignored by Summerfield. The Town Council has even sacrificed basic environmental and safety best-management practices and standards to maintain its exclusivity, Couch said. In his letter to Sessoms, Berger blasted Summerfields policymaking. (Summerfield)s land-use policies have hindered some would say prevented development of needed supplies of water and the necessary systems to treat wastewater, Berger wrote. The absence of a public water supply for fire protection in Summerfield and northwestern Guilford County is an even more concerning present problem. In his statement, Sessoms disputed that notion. Summerfield has been under contract since last winter to drastically improve water availability for fire protection to the tune of committing $6.6 million toward providing the very fire protection that Mr. Berger has indicated thats missing, and we will deliver that, he said. Sessoms, along with town leadership, land-use attorneys and lobbyists, have said they will continue to advocate against de-annexation. Lynne Williams DeVaney, Summerfields mayor pro-tem, said that the town had sent another compromise to Couch on April 28, but he never continued negotiations. I would personally ask Raleigh to pause, DeVaney said. Raleigh needs to ask the party that created this de-annexation to come to the table, and they have not. In an email statement to the News & Record, Couch said he was excited about finally moving forward. After years of games and stonewalling to block new housing in Summerfield, Im eager at the prospect of using my land to build homes for people. We face a major housing supply crisis, especially for middle-income families. Its simply untenable for a town surrounded by growth to block private landowners from building more housing. Editors note: This is the third email the Independent Record has received from Hands On Global Executive Director Valerie Hellermann of Helena, who is delivering medical aid and offering comfort to people in Ukraine and Syrian refugees living in Hatay,Turkey (Turkiye), on the Syrian/Turkey border. A 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck southern Turkey and northern Syria on Feb. 6, killing nearly 55,000 people and leaving 1.5 million homeless. She is making her fourth trip overseas to areas in need since Russia launched an invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. She left Helena on Sept. 4 and plans to spend five weeks overseas. She started this trip in Ukraine, but was rerouted to Turkey to set up a mobile clinic. This email from Hellermann arrived 1:09 p.m. Sunday. Imagine having severe physical disabilities and because of the invasion you are making the decision to leave family and country with the likelihood you may never see them again. Crossing the border from Poland into Ukraine we met Lucas (lives in Poland near German border), Paulina (Ukrainian living in Poland) and Matin (from Warsaw) who have been organizing transportation of severely disabled adults by ambulance or bus from Ukraine to Hanover, Germany. They are just 3 people who saw a need. They have facilitated 20 trips and the transporting of over 300 people. They invited us to join them to help prepare these adults to go by a Greyhound-size bus 15 hours to Hanover, Germany. These adults came by cars and vans from all over Ukraine, meeting the bus at the Lviv central train station. The bus had space for 8 people laying down double-stacked and 20 people in seats. No bathroom. There were 4 assistants accompanying them. Family cannot go. The people laying down were paralyzed in varying degrees. We spoke with several of the people on the bus using Google translate. They smiled at our attempt to speak Ukrainian. A supremely human moment where we couldnt speak each others language but we understood with a touch and a smile. They will be staying in facilities with 24-hour care, including medical and physical therapy. They will not be asked to leave the facility after the war is over. A group called PTAHA, who are 24 hour a day volunteers at the train station, helped move these adults from wheelchairs and gurneys onto the bus. These volunteers provide help to anyone coming to the train station with medical or psychological needs. A transient meeting at the border gave us an opportunity to see other extraordinary ways people are helping people. Signing off from Lviv: Merita and Tama. For more on Hands On Global, go to https://www.facebook.com/handsonglobal/ Editor's note: Hellermann has remained in Turkey to help with aid efforts. There is another Hands On Global team in the Ukraine. A previous editor's note incorrectly said she was no longer in Turkey. Attorneys representing a group of families and employees impacted by Intermountains decision to close its residential care program said they emailed a letter to board members Sunday, threatening to sue unless the nonprofit commits to reasonably extend care for these children with behavioral health issues. They said the group wants a response to its email by noon Tuesday, after which time it will seek judicial intervention to protect these children. Intermountains plan to suddenly remove these children from its Helena facility would virtually guarantee that they will suffer irreversible setbacks in their recovery and face immediate harm, the attorneys wrote. Intermountain recently announced it was closing its residential program beginning Sept. 22, impacting 16 children ranging from ages 4-14 who live in two cottages and 55 staff members. Intermountain officials said the closure, which they said would be temporary, was due to staffing shortages, and they would help with the childrens relocation. That relocation is expected to happen by Oct. 5 and Intermountain said it will not close until the last child is discharged. On Sept. 11, the board of directors said it was committed to reopening the program. The board passed a motion directing staff to prepare a strategic plan and an approximate date to reopen the residential program, an Intermountain spokeswoman said. That plan is due to the board in 30 days. Later in the day staff members and people from the community gathered at the state Capitol in a show of support for Intermountain. In a Sept. 17 email, attorneys Raph Graybill of the Graybill Law Firm and former chief legal counsel to then-Gov. Steve Bullock and Constance Van Kley, Christopher Patalano and Rylee Sommers-Flanagan of Upper Seven Law said the families are unlikely to find equivalent residential treatment options for them at short notice. They said their clients would take legal action unless Intermountain committed to reasonably extend continuity of care for these children, whom it is contractually required to treat. The attorneys said they will sue to obtain an order for their immediate protection, to ensure their safety by restraining Intermountains plan to precipitously and dangerously suspend operations and its care of these children. At a minimum, Intermountain must remain open and make its full services available until a safe and adequate discharge or transfer can be assured for each child, they wrote. The attorneys noted the children came to Intermountain after all other alternatives had been exhausted. They said the staff have, without qualification, saved lives. These children deserve more than sudden abandonment. And they argued that Intermountains decision to close violates Montana law. As a condition of its licensure through the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, Intermountain must create for each of its clients a discharge plan, including planning for aftercare services, and estimated discharge date, the letter states. They said that based on conversations with staff, Intermountain Residential can maintain current operations through the end of November. That is barring more resignations. This would allow for a more orderly transition than the current two-week timeframe, the attorneys wrote. They said it was their clients understanding that a one-cottage model is sustainable long into the future. We urge the Board to engage directly with Residential leadership on these issues, to develop a plan for orderly transition and continuity of care, they wrote. Make no mistake, Intermountains decision to suspend operations is unsafe, the letter to board members states, adding it would be sued if it halted care for the children it accepted into its facility for care and treatment. They noted some of the children suffer from serious mental health conditions and have engaged in extremely harmful conduct to themselves and others. Intermountain, founded in 1909, provides outpatient services to children, adults and families with mental health needs in Billings, Bozeman and Helena. Its residential program serves as a national referral base for children with behavioral and mental health needs. Intermountains website states it is a nationally recognized nonprofit providing Hope & Healing to children, youth, and families in need of improved mental and behavioral health. On Aug. 14, 55 Intermountain employees submitted a letter to their board expressing a vote of no confidence in the board and its interim Chief Executive Officer Gary Larecenaire, saying that recent incidents at the facility have created a toxic atmosphere. They said Larcenaire and the board are not following company policies. The current workplace culture is toxic in nature, the letter states. The Aug. 14 letter, in which the signatures were removed, states Intermountain has lost 75 employees since Feb. 1, and 50 of those have been since June. They said 55 of the vacancies were voluntary, but 45 of those worked directly with clients, were clinical leadership positions and were revenue-producing jobs. Intermountain did not provide immediate comment on Sunday's letter. Erin Benedict, chief communications officer for Intermountain, said earlier that Intermountain is going through a time of transformation and transition. Change can be difficult, but as an organization that has changed and adapted several times over the course of its 115-year history, we pride ourselves on being adaptable and resilient, she said in an August email. Since Interim CEO Gary Larcenaire joined us in February, the primary focus of leadership has been to increase access and quality care for children, families, and adults in our community. Until recently, there was a one-year waitlist for our services. Now, we are accepting new clients for a variety of our outpatient services. Benedict said in August that Intermountain, like many other organizations, is dealing with staffing shortages. The nature of our work can be especially stressful, she said. Our current leadership is dedicated to improving the work environment to retain current employees and recruit new employees. The boards Sept. 11 resolution states it was the Residential Leadership Team that self-directed the closure of the two remaining cottages." However, members of the Residential Leadership Team dispute that and told the Independent Record that they had submitted a 12-page proposal to the board in early August, proposing a plan to address the staffing crisis. They said the plan would create a separate subsidiary for the residential workers that would report directly to the board. They believed they could cut out some of the roadblocks caused by upper management and build, train and mentor a workforce. The employees said they didn't know if their plan would have worked, but said they believe it would have been different than closing the program. Benedict said the board considered the plan but found it to be wholly inadequate to address their challenges. The attorneys said in their Sunday email that regardless of ongoing disagreements, Intermountain and its board have legal and ethical responsibilities to the children in their care. Ultimately, the Board is responsible for operations and for this decision, they said. Intermountain can and must address management issues while ensuring continuity of care and the safety of children whose lives and wellbeing depend on its services. The attorneys said the conduct is expected to continue if their treatment at Intermountain is abruptly terminated and Intermountain would be held responsible for all damages that would result from the careless removal of treatment and residential care for these children. We call on you to prevent Intermountains abdication of the duties it has to the children in its care at Intermountain Residential, the attorneys wrote. Otherwise, we will have no choice but to enforce our clients legal rights against Intermountain. Editor's note: Updates story to say relocation was hoped to be completed by Oct. 5. Montana State Fund on Monday announced a $35 million dividend declaration to more than 24,000 policyholders across Montana. Dividend payments will begin in late October and are expected to be complete by the end of November. MSF is the states not-for-profit and leading workers compensation insurance company. It insures about 24,000 employers and their workers in nearly 400 industries from every Montana county. Gov. Greg Gianforte in a news release called it welcome news for hardworking Montanans and job creators. And he said it was another step in the right direction the workers compensation system. MSF Board Chair Richard Miltenberger said the financial position of State Fund is reviewed before declaring a dividend. This the 25th consecutive year MSF has declared a dividend, totaling $431 million distributed to customers. State Fund President and CEO Holly ODell said dividends are not guaranteed. If financial circumstances warrant, the MSF board of directors may opt to declare a smaller dividend, or no dividend at all. This dividend is excellent news for Montana employers who work so hard to operate safe and healthy workplaces and is a testament to the workers who commit to creating a culture of workplace safety, said ODell. SPRINGFIELD, Ill. For centuries, Europeans carving up the prairie to suit their own idea of settlement dug up the graves of Native Americans as they conquered lands and pushed tribes to the West. Now, Native Americans whose ancestors' remains ended up held for study in sterile, nondescript boxes on shelves in educational facilities or displayed in cultural locales hope a new Illinois law will speed their recovery for proper reburial in their homeland. I always have a bit of unease because I know if Im going to a university or to a museum that chances are pretty high that weve got some ancestors sitting in a basement or in a closet somewhere, said Raphael Wahwassuck, tribal preservation officer for the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation in Mayetta, Kansas. I hope that this (law) will help ease those concerns, knowing that we are working on correcting that and taking care of our ancestors to put them in a good resting place. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed The Human Remains Protection Act last month, which updates a rudimentary 1989 state statute. It also complements a federal law adopted a year later, the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act. It requires the return of human remains and funerary, sacred and cultural objects unearthed in the past 200 years by plows and bulldozers, by archeologists, or by profiteering marauders to the associated tribe. Key to the measure is first-time authority for tribes to rebury recovered remains in Illinois, which they much prefer to relocating them to states to which the U.S. government forced their relocation nearly two centuries ago. The Illinois State Museum, which holds remains from about 7,000 individuals, is prepared to reunify 1,100 of them with their tribes, according to Brooke Morgan, the museum's curator of anthropology. Overall, institutions in Illinois can identify nearly 13,000 individuals that must be repatriated. What the soil produced often ended up in scholarly institutions across the state, from Chicago's Field Museum to Southern Illinois University, as well as the state museum. Illinois is the nation's fifth-largest repository of human remains, according to the National Park Service, which administers the repatriation program. And large numbers of remains recovered from Illinois are held by institutions in other states. Nationally, the remains of nearly 209,000 individuals have been reported to the federal government and must be surrendered to descendants. The law also toughens monetary penalties, including required restitution, for disturbing human remains and items buried with them or for displays something the Illinois State Museum did at Dickson Mounds in Lewistown, 200 miles southwest of Chicago, before disbanding the feature in 1992. While repatriation in Illinois during the federal laws first three decades has been sluggish, at best, in 2020, the late Cinnamon Catlin-Legutko, the museums director, pushed her staff to gauge interest with Native American tribes in repatriating the Dickson Mounds holdings. Now, the museum is on the cusp of returning the remains of 1,100 individuals from Dickson Mounds to 10 tribes whose ancestors were laid to rest there, Morgan said. It can be emotionally taxing. It can be really traumatic to learn about how their ancestors have been studied or how theyve been housed or how theyve been cared for or not cared for, Morgan said. What scholars now call a period of ethnic cleansing began with President Andrew Jackson's signature on the Indian Removal Act of 1830. It forced indigenous people to move west of the Mississippi River, clearing the eastern United States for white settlers, particularly for expansive cotton cultivation in the south. Prior to the new law, repatriation meant turning remains over to tribes who had little choice but to take them back to the states to which they were forcibly removed. The tribes that I talked to one, specifically, the Cherokee of Oklahoma said, that is like recreating the Trail of Tears, said the legislation's sponsor, Rep. Mark Walker, a Democrat from the Chicago suburb of Arlington Heights. He was referring to the 1838-39 westward death march which claimed the lives of 4,000 Cherokee. Walker said the Cherokee told him, 'Our ancestors were buried where our ancestors wanted to be buried. And now you've dug up their bones and you're going to bring them to where we were forced to go. Walker said negotiators have compiled a list of 30 potential sites for burial. Tribes will ultimately choose which sites will be used. Matthew Bussler, tribal historic preservation officer for the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi in Dowagiac, Michigan, said the practice and ceremony of final rites differs by tribe. Generally, he said, it is critical to see that ancestors are returned to the womb of Mother Earth not only so they may continue their journey in the hereafter, but to redeem all of the pain and the suffering of their tribe, especially their descendants. Those human remains were never treated as human beings , Bussler said. Those who had been deceased for hundreds of years who are just being found, or your grandmother who just passed away we need to treat them all with utmost respect. States with the biggest Native American populations States with the biggest Native American populations #51. Vermont #50. District of Columbia #49. New Hampshire #48. West Virginia #47. Rhode Island #46. Delaware #45. Maine #44. Hawaii #43. Wyoming #42. Kentucky #41. Connecticut #40. Iowa #39. Mississippi #38. Massachusetts #37. Arkansas #36. Tennessee #35. Indiana #34. South Carolina #33. Ohio #32. Kansas #31. Missouri #30. Pennsylvania #29. Nebraska #28. Louisiana #27. Idaho #26. Alabama #25. Maryland #24. Utah #23. New Jersey #22. North Dakota #21. Virginia #20. Wisconsin #19. Nevada #18. Minnesota #17. Michigan #16. Georgia #15. Oregon #14. Colorado #13. Florida #12. Montana #11. South Dakota #10. Illinois #9. Alaska #8. Washington #7. North Carolina #6. New York #5. New Mexico #4. Texas #3. Arizona #2. Oklahoma #1. California Statesville Police officers took a man into custody at a homeless camp behind Pump Station Road on Saturday evening in connection with an assault with a machete on Sept. 7. David Morgan had been sought by authorities in relation to the violent altercation with two other homeless people. Morgan is currently receiving medical treatment at a local hospital for the injuries he sustained during the incident. Following his release from medical care, he will face a magistrate on two counts of assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury. The Statesville Police Department commends the dedicated officers who played a pivotal role in locating and apprehending David Morgan. The attack occurred shortly before 12:30 p.m. on Sept. 7. Statesville police responded to the area near Pump Station Road and discovered Christina Foster, 28, and Michael Forth, 35, suffering from multiple lacerations, Statesville police said. Foster and Forth were transported to Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries, Statesville police said. Foster and Forth told officers that they were involved in an altercation with another individual. Statesville police said the pair identified Morgan, who is also living in the same wooded area, as the individual. Statesville police said Morgan is accused of striking both victims with a machete during the altercation. Foster and Forth also each face charges of assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury. An additional 31,526 North Carolinians lost their Medicaid coverage, at least temporarily, during August 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 put on hold for much of the pandemic. The first five months of recertifications covered 780,933 North Carolinians, of which 484,125 recertifications had been completed by Aug. 31, according to the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services website. Of the 122,008 completed recertifications during August, 74.2%, or 90,482 beneficiaries, were determined to be eligible. About 22,548 individuals lost their benefits during August for procedural reasons, such as missing paperwork, incomplete documentation or could not be reached by a caseworker. Another 3,982 North Carolinians were found to no longer meet eligibility requirements for any Medicaid program. Altogether, 87,308 North Carolinians have lost their benefits for procedural reasons since June 30, while 12,617 were found to no longer meet eligibility requirements for any Medicaid program. NCDHHS said it did not have a county breakdown of those affected. NCDHHS said its goal is to ensure people who remain eligible for Medicaid continue to be covered and those who are no longer eligible know their potential options, such as buying coverage, often at a reduced cost, through the federal Health Insurance Marketplace. The number of potential ineligible beneficiaries in N.C. and nationwide was reduced after the USDHHS approved new flexibilities to help keep Americans covered as states resume Medicaid and Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP) renewals. Nobody who is eligible for Medicaid or the Childrens Health Insurance Program should lose coverage simply because they changed addresses, didnt receive a form, or didnt have enough information about the renewal process, U.S. Health Secretary Xavier Becerra said in a June 12 statement. Medicaid expansion limbo 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 on Aug. 28 that expansion would not start on Oct. 1. Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper signed the bipartisan Medicaid expansion bill into law on March 27. With a signed state budget, NCDHSS 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. Cooper, Kinsley and other Democratic cabinet and legislative leaders had urged Republicans to reach a state budget compromise before Sept. 1 or remove Medicaid expansion funding from the budget. House speaker Tim Moore, R-Cleveland, and Senate leader Phil Berger, R-Rockingham, have said they expect a budget compromise and final vote potentially by early next week. Analysts say the refusal to separate Medicaid expansion funds represents leverage against a potential Cooper veto of the state budget bill. 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, Kinsley said. 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. 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. County Proclamation Observes Constitution Week Sept. 17-23 Hill County commissioners approved a proclamation declaring September 17-23 Constitution Week in the county during a meeting held Tuesday morning, September 12. The resolution signed by County Judge Justin Lewis encourages the public to commemorate the 236th anniversary of the drafting of the United States Constitution. The annual celebration of the Constitution was started by the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). In 1955, DAR petitioned Congress to set aside September 17-23 annually to be dedicated for the observance of Constitution Week. The resolution was later adopted by the U.S. Congress and signed into public law on August 2, 1956, by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. For the complete story, see the Monday, September 18, edition of The Reporter Newspaper. Hillsboro EDC Launches New Website The Hillsboro Economic Development Corporation (HEDC) has announced that its new website dedicated to encouraging businesses to expand or relocate to the community is now live. With a growing economy and a business-friendly environment, Texas has seen an influx of companies relocating or expanding in the state. Hillsboro is a thriving community with a strong workforce and a central location that makes it an ideal place for businesses to grow. The new website, https://hillsborotxedc.com, provides information on the many benefits of doing business in Hillsboro. For the complete story, see the Monday, September 18, edition of The Reporter Newspaper. Acclaimed organist Raul Prieto Ramirez will present the annual Donia Organ Recital at Hope College on Tuesday, Sept. 26, at 7 p.m. in the Concert Hall of Jack H. Miller Center for Musical Arts. The public is invited. Admission is free. Ramirez will be performing instead of Cherry Rhoades, who was previously announced as this years guest artist but will be unable to visit. With words such as sizzling and transcendent used to describe his performances, Raul Prieto Ramirez enjoys a busy global performing schedule that takes him to major music festivals, churches and cathedrals, concert halls (from Russia to major venues through Europe and the U.S.), universities, and, as juror, international competitions. In December 2017, he was appointed the San Diego Civic Organist and Artistic Director of the Spreckels Organ Society, where he presides over the famed Austin organ at the citys Balboa Park Pavilion the largest open-air musical instrument in the world. Ramirez is the eighth Civic Organist to serve San Diego on the Spreckels organ bench. After studies in Spain, Ramirez moved to Stuttgart to study organ with Ludger Lohmann and, concurrently, piano with Leonid Sintsev at the Rimsky-Korsakov Conservatory in St. Petersburg. He also studied organ under Marie-Claire Alain, Guy Bovet, Eric Lebrun, Lionel Rogg and Luigi Ferdinando Tagliavini. His compositions for chamber ensemble, pipe organ and solo instruments have been broadcast throughout Spain, and his concerto for organ and orchestra premiered in Barcelona. His transcriptions of Liszts piano etudes and Mephisto Waltz and his interpretations of the music of Buxtehude, Bach, Franck and Reger have been highly praised by audiences and critics alike. From 2013 to 2017, Ramirez served as organist-in-residence at Sursa Concert Hall and the professor of organ at Ball State University in Muncie, Ind. He continues as the Artistic Director and Founder of the Barcelona Summer Organ Festival and Academy. Ramirez has been widely recorded and interviewed for radio and television in several European countries and in the U.S. His first two compact discs, on the Brilliant Classics label, were recorded at Milan Cathedral in Italy (music of Franck, Liszt, Reger and Saint-Saens) and at the Palau de la Musica Catalana in Barcelona (music for piano and organ duet). Ramirez and his wife, Spanish pianist Maria Teresa Sierra, perform frequently in concert together. Raul Prieto Ramirez is represented in North America exclusively by Phillip Truckenbrod Concert Artists LLC. The recital is made possible through the generous support of the colleges Tom Donia Memorial Organ Fund. The fund was created in 1990 by the family and friends of Donia, a 1971 Hope graduate who died in 1990. The director of communications for the American Red Cross, Donia had a lifelong interest in music and loved the pipe organ in particular. To inquire about accessibility or if you need accommodations to fully participate in the event, please email accommodations@hope.edu. Updates related to events are posted when available in the individual listings at hope.edu/calendar. The Jack H. Miller Center for Musical Arts is located at 221 Columbia Ave., between Ninth and 10th streets. COMPANY NEWS: ConnectWise, one of the worlds leading software companies dedicated to the success of IT solution providers (TSPs), is pleased to announce that ConnectWise MDR will be integrated with Microsoft's small and medium business focused security solutions. This collaboration enables strengthened cybersecurity management for companies worldwide, through the integration of ConnectWise MDR and Microsoft Defender for Business standalone and as part of Microsoft 365 Business Premium. ConnectWise MDR with Microsoft Defender for Business will benefit managed service providers (MSPs) of all sizes that are focused on scaling their business operations with a cost-effective and powerful cybersecurity solution, within secure and efficient environments. MSPs can now provide these enterprise-grade and comprehensive, tailored cybersecurity and business solutions to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) around the globe. These SMBs comprise and power a magnitude of industries. ConnectWise MDR with Microsoft Defender for Business is available to technology solution providers through ConnectWise. With this new integration from ConnectWise, TSPs and MSPs gain enterprise-grade cybersecurity solutions such as detecting and responding to clients threats in real-time, defending client endpoints from security threats, reduced reliance on easily bypassed preventative-only tools, and security operations centre (SOC) team support with certified security analysts. These capabilities allow TSPs and MSPs worldwide to deliver scalable, enterprise-grade security solutions with cutting-edge threat intelligence in a cost-effective manner. Key benefits for TSPs / MSPs who use ConnectWise MDR with Microsoft Defender for Business: 1. Microsoft's trusted and comprehensive cybersecurity solution, Microsoft Defender for Business, which brings enterprise-grade, cross-platform endpoint protection and EDR to SMBs, is integrated into ConnectWise MDR for a holistic approach to cybersecurity 2. 24 x 365 Dedicated security operations centre (SOC) team support delivered by highly skilled security analysts, automated threat detection, 24 x 365 expert monitoring, quick incident response ranked as best-in-class and a team of 200+ experts 3. ConnectWise CRU Combined strength of Microsofts threat intelligence along with ConnectWise Cyber Research Unit (CRU) which is focused on threat hunting specific to MSPs and SMBs 4. Seamless integration into the ConnectWise platform, providing for streamlined IT management processes and greater efficiency According to a recent study by Forrester, as commissioned by Microsoft, 85% of MSPs see security as an area of growth, and 64% of SMBs prefer purchasing cybersecurity solutions as a package that meets all their requirements. Additional proprietary research on cybersecurity and SMBs found that 94% of small and medium businesses would consider switching to a new provider if a more comprehensive security solution was offered, making this collaboration timely and an opportunity for TSPs to edge out the competition. Connectwise executive vice president and general manager cybersecurity Raffael Marty discusses the company's commitment to MSPs, Our mission is to empower IT solution providers with unmatched software, services, and community to achieve their most ambitious visions of success. Our integration with Microsoft enhances our shared vision of assisting businesses so they can thrive in resource-limited environments. Marty adds, With the help of our integrated security solutions, advanced management tools, and expert SOC and MDR services, we help organisations realise their full potential. We are committed to powering TSPs with new solutions that enable them to differentiate their offerings and gain competitive advantages, and with a focus on those solutions that further empower MSPs of all sizes to excel at servicing a greater volume of SMB clients, each year." Echoing this sentiment, Microsoft Sentinel Engineering and Microsoft Defender CVP Rob Lefferts states, "The integration with ConnectWise represents our shared commitment to empowering managed service providers. This collaboration aims to enhance security for SMB customers, boost partner profitability, and reduce costs through integrated solutions. Learn more about ConnectWise MDR with Microsoft Defender for Business here. About ConnectWise ConnectWise is the world's leading software company dedicated to the success of IT solution providers (TSPs) through unmatched software, services, community, and marketplace of integrations. ConnectWise offers an innovative, integrated, and security-centric platformAsiowhich provides unmatched flexibility that fuels profitable, long-term growth for partners. ConnectWise enables TSPs to drive business efficiency with automation, IT documentation, and data management capabilities and increase revenue with remote monitoring, cybersecurity, and backup and disaster recovery technologies. For more information, visit connectwise.com. GUEST OPINION: Data fabric and data mesh are two concepts mentioned frequently in discussions around enterprise data and analytics, but there are subtle differences between the two which are often misunderstood. They are in fact very different in purpose for information flow. According to the latest release of IDC's Worldwide Big Data and Analytics (BDA) Spending Guide, spending on data analytics solutions in Australia and New Zealand in 2022 was US$5.5 billion net, and is expected to register a compounded annual growth rate of 13.3% (2021-2026). As more and more elements of business involve data integration, across ANZ, the distinction between these two concepts will have a growing impact across fields such as product delivery, customer engagement, business development, and even financial accounting. Over the past two decades, enterprises have managed data by oscillating through cycles of centralisation, decentralisation, databasing, data warehousing, cloud data stores, and data lakes. More recently, organisations have pivoted towards cloud-based-hyper scalers like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP). A universal truth - businesses want data to be easy to find and fast to access. Collecting all the data into a single location continues to be a challenge, however. Data fabric and data mesh designs can help businesses solve these challenges in different ways. Finding a future-proof data framework that meets the changing needs of commerce is essential. Gaining a better understanding of data management can expedite positive change for an organisation, as well as shifting the needle from looking data as a must-have, to approaching it as an opportunity to find new sources of revenue and value creation. Decentralisation Physically containing data in one single repository can be challenging in todays environment where business units still operate in silos to some extent. This means connecting to necessary data sources that might be stored in different formats and sizes, both structured and unstructured, as well as having consideration for any privacy restrictions and regulations the data may involve. Through logical data integration, business users harness virtualisation to connect and unify data at the metadata level and therefore avoid issues relating to physically replicating data for ingestion. In logical data integration architectures, users do not access data directly, but through shared semantic models. These solutions provide virtualised representations of the data and leave the source data untouched. This is important as more stakeholders executives, and key decision-makers are involving themselves with the source data to draw more accurate macro-understandings of the business. It is important to note that logical data fabric and data mesh are two very different architectural approaches - data fabric being a data infrastructure stack while data mesh focuses on process orientation but both are intended to solve data integration, management and delivery in a distributed environment. Data fabric Lets use an everyday analogy: like different threads in the fabric of our clothing, a data fabric encompasses data from different locations, formats, and types, weaved together. In this configuration, the data is still understood to be physically integrated through traditional replication. A logical data fabric replaces physical data integration with a logical data integration component. As described above, this means the data can stay where it is, but stakeholders can still view and action these replications in real-time. Data virtualisation makes this process possible. This therefore creates a logical data fabric. This logical data fabric gives business users the option to layer business semantics on top without affecting the underlying data sources. Business decision-makers and data analysts can build tailored virtual data stores, without moving the data. Therefore, this negates any risk of unintentionally modifying or corrupting the underlying data sources. For business leaders, their team of data scientists can use their preferred business intelligence tools and iteratively build their data models. This means fewer project management complications in collecting, replicating, and cleaning up the data for analysis. Logical data fabric makes data ready and accessible for use. Hastings Deering, one of the worlds largest dealers of Cat equipment for the construction and resources sectors, implemented the Denodo Platform to help with a complicated and siloed data architecture, with large volumes of data being ingested across several CRM systems. The data program has accelerated predictions, allowing Hastings Deering to better manage the impact of global supply chains and other regional events. Leveraging data virtualisation has enabled Hastings Deering to fast track its analytical capabilities, expand its self-service analytics capabilities, and streamline data delivery. The logical data layer enabled access to a wide range of data types as well as data on-premises, in the cloud, and via SaaS applications like SalesLink. It has also enabled access to data via any tool, such as Power BI. Data mesh While a data fabric serves as an integration solution, a data mesh is an organising solution to structure data, individual access privileges, processes, and workflows within a singular enterprise. In a data mesh, data ownership and management belong to assigned data domains that correspond to the department or function of the enterprise. Stakeholders within each data domain will package their data together as products to be delivered throughout the enterprise. Each line of the enterprise creates and maintains their own data products such as consumer data products, asset data products, and finance data products. When key stakeholders in the enterprise and owners of the data domains need to create their own views or data products, granting access privileges may require complex and costly workarounds. This is where a logical data mesh bridges the needs of top-view visibility by business stakeholders with the enterprises existing IT architecture design. Through a logical data mesh, enterprises can connect the networks of relevant data available to users, analysts, developers and applications that need it. Data virtualisation enables enterprises to continue working with existing data assets, services, and project management workflows without disruptive trade-offs. The logical data mesh grants business intelligence teams access privileges and business metadata in a separate, mutually exclusive layer. Like with a logical data fabric, new semantic layers can be created for data domains without the risk of accidental modification or corrupting the data sources. Data virtualisation is also a building block for creating new data domains that could be packaged for internal enterprise use or external customer-facing products for sale. Which approach works better? It generally depends on the operational workflow and the size of the organisation. Logical data fabric is an intelligent, powerful way to integrate data, as well as manage and deliver data in a format applicable to all shapes and sizes of business. A data mesh architecture is an equally intelligent way to organise data within an entire enterprise but usually is more effective for large businesses with many lines of business units and complex organisational structures. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate both options, and ascertain which will work better for a specific business type or indeed, perhaps combining both will provide the best results. On top of both options, data virtualisation empowers organisations to use logical data integration and adopt the benefits of both approaches data fabric and data mesh. Data virtualisation capabilities also provide a future-proofing data framework to meet the evolving needs of businesses. Add to this my other blunders, stumbles, screwups and snafus in family life, professional career, political path, real estate good Lord, the majestic apartment on Trondhjemsgade in Copenhagen that I bought, 13-foot ceilings, elaborate molding, a view of rstedsparken, you could've entertained royalty in the dining room or negotiated the union of Denmark and Sweden I quit my radio show at the peak of its popularity and took my Danish wife to live in splendor and sit with her friends speaking my kindergarten Danish my mind boggles: What was I thinking? And the reader answers: The problem was that you had too much money. And the reader is quite right. But nonetheless what happened to the frugality of my parents John and Grace, shopping at Sears, darning socks, the meals of fried smelt, the hand-me-downs, why did I throw this overboard? It's comedy, pure and simple. The man walks out his front door, is drenched by the neighbor's water sprinkler, turns away and steps on a rake, his head is bleeding, he goes back to the door and finds he's locked himself out. It's the human condition: too soon old, too late smart. But I found my glasses today. They were in my jacket pocket. Sometimes they're in a shirt pocket, sometimes perched on top of my head. The frenzy ends, the problem solves itself. The comedian is grateful. He looks around and appreciates the beauty of the day, the here and now. It's 5 a.m. My love is asleep in the bedroom, my daughter in her bedroom. I look out at the lights of New York. I make coffee, take my meds. The day awaits. There is work to be done. Then daughter Maia and I will take a brisk walk around Central Park. There will be lunch, a nap, a phone call, perhaps from cousin Elizabeth explaining how Our Lord, though omniscient and omnipotent, nonetheless experienced our mortality with all its sorrows and pain, or maybe cousin Joyce planning our trip to Scotland, or cousin Richard reminiscing about his travels in Africa. I am rich with cousins. My love has only a couple of second cousins. I have dozens. Cousin Stan is 90, my mentor. Elizabeth is my conscience, Dan my doctor, Susie my family historian, Janice my authority on cheerfulness. Dad had six siblings, Mother twelve. This connects me to hundreds of people, including a month-old great-nephew. As Van Morrison sang: These are the days now that we must savor And we must enjoy as we can. These are the days that will last forever, You've got to hold them in your heart. Somehow the ridiculous missteps of my life lead to this day in September, the back-to-school month, and in my heart I am still walking into the old high school, anxious to do well in Lyle Bradley's biology and Helen Story's English and even in Stan Nelson's phy-ed. I'm an oddball but I have friends. Miss Story assigns us to memorize a Shakespeare sonnet and for some reason she assigns me Sonnet No. 29, When, in disgrace with fortune and men's eyes, I all alone beweep my outcast state, and it is still intact in my mind, the series of complaints and then Yet in these thoughts happily I think on thee, and then my state, like to the lark at break of day arising from sullen earth, sings hymns at heaven's gate. Miss Story grew up on a farm in southern Minnesota, never married, devoted herself to teaching and reading and travel and was a passionate Shakespearean. She assigned me the poem. The poet feels wretched, envies the good fortune of others who have not walked into sprinklers and stepped on rakes, and then he is awakened by love and returns to the present. I don't need glasses for this. It's planted in my head, as fresh and green as when I was 17. (COMMENT, BELOW) Garrison Keillor is an author and radio personality. His latest book is "The Lake Wobegon Virus: A Novel". Buy it at a 33% discount! by clicking here. Sales help fund JWR. TOLEDO Pretrial release for the defendant charged with murdering a Lerna man was denied on Monday during a hearing necessitated by the end of cash bail in Illinois. Lance Newcomb, 25, of Robinson is now set to continue to be held at the Cumberland County jail on charges of first-degree murder and concealment of a homicide in the shooting death of Ryan Waggoner, 55. Newcomb, who has pleaded not guilty, is scheduled to return to court for a status hearing on Sept. 25. During a July 10 bond hearing, his bond was set at a level at which would require the posting of $200,000 to be released from the jail. However, the Illinois Pretrial Fairness Act went into effect on Monday with its provision that cash bail be abolished as a condition of a persons release before trial. Consequently, Cumberland County States Attorney Bryan Robbins filed a motion to deny Newcomb pretrial release. The act does include a provision that defendants facing certain charges, including first-degree murder, can still be held in custody while they await trial. A judge also can still keep individuals in jail before trial if a prosecutor successfully argues that they represent a flight risk or danger to the community. Robbins argued during Mondays hearing that the Illinois State Police has gathered evidence that Newcomb fatally shot his father figure, Waggoner, on June 2 at this mans rural Lerna home and then dismembered, burnt and attempted to dispose of the body. I think his past behavior in this case shows the defendant is a danger to the community, Robbins said. He said that the State Polices investigation also showed that Newcomb may have been planning to flee the state. Public defender Shon Park argued in response that the states attorney has only presented circumstantial evidence linking Newcomb to the death of Waggoner and that his client has not been shown to be a potential threat to the community. The defense attorney said Newcomb could be confined to home for his pretrial release with electronic monitoring while undergoing any needed mental health evaluations and substance abuse treatment. Judge Jonathan Braden said he felt that the states attorney had proven his argument that there is evidence indicating Newcomb committed the alleged violent crimes and that he would be a threat if released. I am going to find your pretrial release would present a clear and present danger to the community, Braden said. Who are they? IL children reported missing as of September 9 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). MATTOON While police, lawyers, judges and courthouse administrators have worked for months to prepare for the end of cash bail in Illinois, they will enter uncharted territory next week when a new system begins statewide. When the Pretrial Fairness Act takes effect Monday, Illinois will be the first state to abolish cash bail as a condition of a persons release before trial. Judges can still keep people behind bars before trial if they are accused of serious crimes, or if a prosecutor successfully argues that the person represents a flight risk or danger to the community. However, a more rigorous review of each case will be required before the defendant can be detained and the work must take place on a tighter timeline, as laid out in state law. Amanda Ade-Harlow, presiding judge for Shelby County, said representatives from the circuit court, law enforcement, states attorneys office, public defenders office and pretrial court services began meeting shortly after the Illinois Supreme Court upheld the law in July. They have reached a point where they believe as of last week, we have a really good system, Ade-Harlow said. But as with anything, we dont know for sure until it starts. Cash bail ban is years in the making The Pretrial Fairness Act has been on the books since early 2021, and became a hot-button political issue in the intervening years. Lawmakers voted during their lame duck session in December to adjust the original language to clarify some provisions and address concerns about circumstances under which people could be detained. The measure had been set to take effect Jan. 1, but the state high court delayed the rollout amid confusion after a lower court found it unconstitutional. In July, the high court declared the law constitutional and set Monday as its start date. Supporters of the overhaul have said too many defendants remain in jail only because they cannot come up with the money needed for release. Critics argue that cash bail ensures released defendants show up for court proceedings. Without it, violent criminals who are released pending trial could have the opportunity to commit more crimes, some argue. Advocates also argue that cash bail policies can be especially unfair to people of color: A 2022 federal civil rights report on cash bail systems found that courts tend to impose higher pretrial detention penalties on Black and Latino people, citing a study that showed Black men received bail amounts 35% higher than white men, and Latino men received bail amounts 19% higher than white men. Cook County Public Defender Sharone Mitchell Jr. described Illinois previous cash bail system as a cousin to slavery. The vast majority of people in the system are poor, and theyre Black and brown, and they have no power. It is an incredibly unfair system, he said. Between 1970 and 2015, there was a fivefold increase in the number of people jailed before trials, according to the 2022 U.S. Commission on Civil Rights report. Data shows more than 60% of defendants were detained prior to trial because they couldnt afford to post bail, and that nearly 74% of the 631,000 people jailed daily in the United States are awaiting trial. Typically in state courts, a judge decides if a defendant poses too much of a threat to the community to be released, or if they can be freed with conditions, according to the nonprofit Bail Project. Some states have tried to ease cash bail rules. In 2017, New Jersey essentially replaced its cash bail system with a risk assessment process that gauged the potential danger a released defendant could pose to the community. But cash bail is still allowed in some instances in that state and others that have curtailed the practice, such as New York and Alaska. How has Coles County prepared? In Coles County, Sheriff Kent Martin said he does not anticipate many changes to the way his office submits arrest reports with evidence aimed at establishing probable cause to hold someone in custody to prosecutors and the court system. However, he said, there is a lot of speculation surrounding the future inmate population levels in the jail when the SAFE-T Act provisions go into effect. He said current inmates may petition the court to have their cases reviewed for potential release in lieu of cash bail. I anticipate that some inmates currently charged with violent offenses will remain in custody, but some inmates will be eligible for release, Martin said. I also anticipate an initial drop in our daily count. But, as people fail to show up for court or commit new offenses, I would expect the number of incarcerated inmates to rise again. The new system encourages the use of summons, citations and notices over arrest and detention, and creates a presumption in favor of pretrial release by the courts and arresting officers. The sheriffs office will not process individuals arrested over non-detainable offenses until they have been ordered by the court to report to the jail and complete the booking process, which includes a booking photo, Martin said. Those arrested for detainable offenses will complete the process as it is normally done. I am asking the residents of Coles County to please understand that my deputies and I are playing by the rules thrust upon us by Springfield, and we are as concerned as you are about the possible ramifications of this legislation, Martin said. There will be times when the sheriffs office is not authorized to arrest someone and hold them in custody, Martin said. He added that he knows that will be frustrating for crime victims. Martin said he is also concerned that witnesses may be more reluctant to provide information or participate in the court process if someone is not being held in custody. He said the ability of the sheriffs office to detain people has been diminished by the new bail rules. Im worried we will experience vigilante justice when law-abiding citizens become frustrated with criminals being released back into our neighborhoods, Martin said. Please refrain from taking matters into your own hands. I assure you we will continue to work hard to provide you with the highest quality law enforcement services we can. Across the state, prosecutors and defense attorneys are preparing for additional work needed to meet the new standards. Coles County Public Defender Duane Deters said he anticipates that he and his three assistant attorneys will have great demands placed on their time. It is my personal feeling that we are currently understaffed, but as you may know, finding good quality attorneys is very difficult in these times, Deters said, noting his office must stay within its allotted county budget. I would add that both public and private agencies are struggling with finding candidates for open positions. A public defender will be appointed for each defendant, Deters said, unless the person hires private counsel. The act also will create challenges for the prosecution. Deters said there will now be two ways for the prosecution to detain an individual, either to allege a willful flight risk or what may be loosely referred to as a dangerous standard. Generally speaking, the state must prove that the proof is evident, or the presumption is great, that a certain offense has been committed, as well as certain other factors. The burden of proof is clear and convincing, Deters said. Coles County States Attorney Jesse Danley did not respond to a request for comment for this story. Fifth Circuit Presiding Judge Mitchell Shick has issued an administrative order that any person charged with a criminal offense where the victim is a family or household member shall have no contact with the victim and shall not enter the victims residence unless otherwide ordered. These statutory no-contact restrictions shall be a condition of said defendants release, the order said. Every case is different Come Monday afternoon, many area counties will hold detention hearings during which prosecutors and defense attorneys will argue whether a defendant should be held in custody to await trial. If the states attorneys office does not file a petition for detention, instead a hearing may be held to determine pretrial release conditions that will be placed on the defendant upon their release. Ade-Harlow, the Shelby County judge, said the court has set up Monday, Tuesday and Friday afternoons to be dedicated to giving sufficient time for these hearings. So that everyone has an opportunity the states attorney has an opportunity to address their motion, the defendants and (their) attorney may have sufficient time to fight that motion and to gather evidence or information they need, and so that victims can be properly notified and be present, if necessary, she said, noting the hearings are expected to last significantly longer than the former custody hearing during which the judge only needed to hear a probable cause statement and bond recommendations. Judges will need to take arguments about whether to detain someone on a case by case basis, Ade-Harlow said. We know what the law says, she said. We know the law says the state has to prove by clear and convincing evidence that this person is a flight risk, or that they are by clear and convincing evidence dangerous to a specific person or persons when we talk about detainable, or even to the community at large. But what those facts are, really we have to wait and see how it plays out on a case by case basis, because the facts of every case are different. Shelby County States Attorney Robert Hanlon said he was particularly concerned about the effect of the changes on illegal drug use, especially meth, which he described as an absolute pestilence in the county. The end result, he said, is all those people are given notices to appear, and you know, they have a felonious amount of meth say 20 grams at a street value of $500, he said. The county would seize the drugs, he said, but the defendants release would mean that theyre right back to using. Help from the state Illinois is one of seven states without any oversight mechanism for monitoring how effectively counties court systems help defendants exercise their right to counsel for trial via the public defenders office, according to a 2021 study commissioned by the Illinois Supreme Court. The resulting report from the Boston-based Sixth Amendment Center warned that Illinois framework limits the independence of public defenders and makes for inadequate representation in counties where PDs are overworked. More than half of states directly fund public defenders instead of leaving funding up to counties like Illinois does. Lawmakers did make some resources available, appropriating $10 million for public defenders to help implement the Pretrial Fairness Act. Each of the 101 counties outside of Cook received between $77,000 and $147,555. And while the state isnt any closer to creating a statewide public defender system, the Illinois Office of Statewide Pretrial Services represents a major step forward in providing resources to judicial systems across the state. As of Oct. 1, the office will partner with 71 counties. For months, it has been offering services like compiling information about new arrestees. OSPS is also charged with helping connect those who are released from jail with services like drug treatment or anger management, whether voluntary or ordered by the court. The agency has hired pretrial service officers embedded in 47 of the 71 OSPS-affiliated counties so far. Those officers are responsible for quickly preparing reports on new arrestees criminal histories and professional backgrounds based on interviews with the defendant and associated fact-checking. The reports are then sent to public defenders, states attorneys and judges. A few dozen counties in Illinois already had their own versions of pretrial service offices, but OSPS has lightened the load for some. And in counties that have never had any formalized pretrial service office, OSPS work has proven extremely helpful to the entire judicial system, said Nathan Rowland, a part-time public defender serving Gallatin and Hamilton counties in southeastern Illinois. Rowland, president of the Illinois Council of Chief Defenders, said he has found the information particularly helpful to his work as a public defender. Prior to last year, he said, hed walk into hearings totally blind, having never met his client and not knowing anything about him or her. Right before the hearing Id be standing over in the corner (saying), This is what youve been charged with. Where you living? You got a job? Rowland said. I (didnt) know any of that. Pretrial service officers begin their days early in the morning, and Rowland said hes been receiving reports on new arrestees oftentimes before 8 a.m. In August, OSPS began oversight of electronic monitoring in participating counties, and began picking up the tab for those ordered to wear the GPS tracking devices fees that would sometimes drive the poorest defendants into debt. Not all areas of the state are likely to adopt electronic monitoring. In rural southeastern Illinois, for example, defendants typically had not been able to afford the daily fees associated with ankle monitor use, so electronic monitoring has historically been rare. But, as Rowland pointed out, many rural areas face a much more basic logistical hurdle: large swaths of land with neither cell phone coverage nor reliable broadband or even landline service. Well, youve lost signal, Rowland imagined an OSPS employee saying as they cite a defendant for non-compliance. Well, what does that mean? Theyve tampered with the device or theyve just lost signal because of where theyre at? Kelsey Watznauer, Brendan Denison and The Associated Press contributed. Cities with the fastest 'time-to-crime' rates for firearms Cities with the fastest 'time-to-crime' rates for firearms #40. New York City #39. Baltimore #38. San Jose, California #37. San Diego #36. Los Angeles #35. San Bernardino, California #34. Jacksonville, Florida #33. Tampa, Florida #32. Chattanooga, Tennessee #31. Wichita, Kansas #30. Tulsa, Oklahoma #29. Winston-Salem, North Carolina #28. New Orleans #27. Orlando, Florida #26. Chicago #25. Dayton, Ohio #24. Cincinnati #23. Miami #22. Indianapolis #21. Charlotte, North Carolina #20. Baton Rouge, Louisiana #19. Louisville, Kentucky #18. Las Vegas #17. Columbus, Ohio #16. Dallas #15. San Antonio #14. Philadelphia #13. Houston #12. Cleveland #11. Huntsville, Alabama #10. Mobile, Alabama #9. Milwaukee #8. Atlanta #7. Shreveport, Louisiana #6. Memphis, Tennessee #5. St. Louis #4. Phoenix #3. Columbia, South Carolina #2. Detroit #1. Richmond, Virginia A federal judge has once again issued the legally correct ruling on the Obama-era program that lets young immigrants remain in the United States. Now, it should lead to the right policy result. The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, known as DACA, was an effort to shape policy outside of congressional purview. It was executive overreach, and it has survived for years because of drawn-out court battles and the Trump administrations fumbled effort to repeal it. Federal Judge Andrew Hanen, a Texas appointee of President George W. Bush, struck down the program in a ruling last week. But he is letting it continue for current enrollees, a nod to the Supreme Court probably having the ultimate say. The idea behind DACA is solid: Those brought to the country illegally by their parents, at an age so young that they remember no other home, need a path to legal status and eventually citizenship. Congress ongoing failure has hurt them. The vast majority who have gone to American schools, work American jobs and build American families deserve to officially wear their countrys name. Were talking about more than 580,000 people, including nearly 96,000 in Texas. So why not just leave the order, which President Joe Biden backs, in place? Because its a standing monument to the constant creep of executive authority. Legislation is not written in the executive branch, but too many politicians are testing the bounds. Its a bipartisan effort. Former President Donald Trump issued sweeping orders on immigration and COVID policies. Biden has had several reaches for policy knocked down by the courts on workplace vaccine mandates to student debt cancellation. Governors are getting in on the act. New Mexicos Michelle Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, recently decided that gun-carrying rights were suspended in part of her state, a constitutional affront so brazen that even her partys staunchest gun-control advocates said she was wrong. If the executive recedes, Congress must step forward. Yes, the U.S. Senate and House are frequently dysfunctional. For decades, theyve eagerly ceded tough decision-making and thus political culpability to the executive branch. That lets political wounds fester, and thats more true on immigration than on perhaps any other issue. For decades, a failure to secure borders, set out firm asylum policies and craft rules for ordinary and beneficial movement of workers has allowed for a constant escalation of anger on the issue. ... Some bold lawmakers have tried to find sweeping solutions. Instead, a series of steps that build trust and compromise are in order. The Dreamers, as the young immigrants are known, should be a source of common ground. We hope Sen. John Cornyn, the Texas Republican who is no dove on this issue but understands change needs to come, will lead the way. Were not naive about the political environment, particularly as the 2024 presidential election nears. Dont expect any movement soon. But if DACA does disappear, we hope that it can spur movement to a sensible path. After all, voters are increasingly frustrated with chaos at the border. And the national debate has heated up now that blue-state mayors and governors are feeling the brunt of migrants arriving with bus tickets courtesy of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. Voters will demand action, and if they dont get sensible policy that works, they may turn to darker alternatives. The Republican presidential campaign has featured noxious ideas about immigration specifically, Donald Trump and his emulator, Vivek Ramaswamy, pledging to reverse the longstanding legal notion that anyone born on U.S. soil is born an American citizen. This attack on birthright citizenship is an affront to the ideals that have, for centuries, allowed the U.S. to grow both in numbers and in strength. These candidates feed the beast of executive overreach, saying they see a way to change this longstanding policy through presidential action alone. Republicans should reject both the underlying proposal and the strongman technique. If theres a problem with illegal immigration and of course there is fix it. Dont take it out on children and commit them to a life in limbo in the only country theyve known. Thats how we got DACA. If Congress does its job, we can avoid a repeat and have more useful and humane immigration policies once and for all. A local chef and baker have teamed up to start a supper club. Chef Christopher Brown and baker Brittany McGee are offering weekly, intimate Sunday suppers in a small space above McGees Humble Bee Shoppe at 1003 Brookstown Ave. They are calling their club Casa Domenica, which translates from Italian as Sunday House, and the club is taking inspiration from Italian cuisine in creating four-course menus for each Sundays meal. The club is private, but anyone can become a member by signing up online for $5 a person. Once someone becomes a member, they receive a password that allows them to register online for specific dinners. McGee said they hope to offer meals most Sundays, with two seatings, at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m., for each dinner. Each seating accommodates eight to 10 people. The first supper was held Sept. 10 for friends of McGee and Brown. It began with three types of antipasto: peppers and onions with tomatillo ranch; shaved squash and mimolette cheese with citronette dressing; and focaccia with giardiniera. That was followed by orchiette with potatoes, cabbage and pecorino. Then came roast chicken with mambo sauce, bok choy Caesar, and broccoli & burrata. Dessert was orange and olive-oil cake with zabaglione and bruleed plums. Dinners are priced at $75 a person. Vegetarians are accommodated on request. The next supper will be Sept. 24. People are invited to bring their own wine if they wish, and McGee said at some point she may consider serving some mocktails. Its kind of meant to be a Sunday supper meets dolce vita, with Southern and Italian family food, she said. We want to give people a restaurant-quality experience in an intimate setting. McGee and Brown hope that the suppers will spur community and conversation. And the size of the space makes it well-suited to one community table. McGee, 33, has owned Humble Bee since 2017, but she has pivoted the business in recent years. She closed the retail shop, but still takes online orders and does catering. McGee also has been supplying baked goods for sale on the campus of Wake Forest University. During the pandemic, she also converted the upstairs space. She is using it not only for the supper club, but also baking classes, and she plans to add more classes in October. Brown, 34, was born and raised in Winston-Salem, graduating from Glenn High School before heading to N.C. A&T University to study art. But he was always interested in food, and, when he was out of work briefly in late 2012/early 2013, a girlfriend at the time got him a stage (unpaid short-term apprenticeship) at Table 16, one of Greensboros top restaurants. That first week I made vinaigrette for the first time, and I was hooked, Brown said. He later went on to work at Mozelles, Nobles Grille, Mission Pizza, the Katharine Brasserie and Bar and other restaurants in Winston-Salem. He also had cooking stints in Washington D.C. and Dallas. Earlier this year, after a food-filled trip to New York, Brown decided he wanted to work for himself. So, he started doing pop-ups around town before he and McGee started talking about a supper-club collaboration. Weve known each other for a while, and we would run into each other, Brown said. One day we just started talking about offering some interesting, different options in the city. The dinners will be rooted in Italian cuisine, but not limited to it, Brown said. Italian is the base of my cooking philosophy, like that quote, Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication, from Leonardo Da Vinci. I like simple food done well. So, Italian will be the base, but you will see some Mexican flavors, some Southern comfort food, some Asian ingredients. The way I cook is as if I had a grandmother who had a villa in Italy and a grandmother who threw parties in Harlem. McGee is handling the desserts, but also helping Brown with some of the other cooking. They hope to fill two seatings every week, but thats only about 20 people. Because of the small space, growth of the concept would be limited. But its a part-time project for them both right now. Brown plans to continue doing other pop-ups, as well as pitching in occasionally to help friends at other restaurants, and McGee will continue her bakery business. But Brown and McGee held out the possibility of expanding on the idea at some point adding Monday night meals, for instance. Right now, its a fun thing to do, Brown said. Well see what happens. For memberships, reservations and other information, visit casadomenica.com. PHOTOS: Local chef and baker start Sunday supper club, Casa Domenica (336) 727-7394 The owner of Revel Apartments, a 360-unit community planned for near Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro, has secured $62 million in construction funding from Walker & Dunlop.. Collett Capital is a Charlotte-based real estate investor and operator. Revel will be Collett's first apartment complex in the Triad. It is being built at the intersection of Leabourne Road and N.C. 68. The complex will feature nine 40-unit buildings, each with four floors and elevators. Collett recently sold to ProKidney Corp. a 22-acre site and a 210,000-square-foot building near the planned apartment complex. ProKidney paid $25.5 million in cash for the property listed as all of Lot B within 73 Business Center, a Class A industrial park off Greenbourne Drive near Interstate 73. Medicaid expansion would be tied to opening four additional casinos in North Carolina under a proposal put forth by Republican lawmakers. Rep. Jason Saine, R-Lincoln, and one of the primary House budget writers, told media outlets Sunday that the House is preparing to spin off the Medicaid expansion funding language from the 2023-24 state budget bill. That language would be combined in a bill that would approve up to four potential new casinos, including one being considered in Rockingham County. Saine said that bill could receive a House vote as early as Wednesday. He said the House would be ready to vote this week on a state budget bill sans Medicaid expansion funding and casinos. Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper signed the bipartisan Medicaid expansion bill into law on March 27. However, Republican House and Senate leaders required Medicaid expansion funding be in the 2023-24 budget. Analysts said the refusal to separate Medicaid expansion funds could make if difficult for Cooper to veto the state budget bill. Cooper responded to the Saine proposal in saying on X, formerly known as Twitter, that GOP demand for passage of their backroom casino deal in exchange for a state budget and Medicaid expansion is the most brutally dishonest legislative scheme Ive seen in my 3+ decades. House speaker Tim Moore, R-Cleveland, has said several times recently that there are not enough House GOP votes for the casino projects being pushed by Senate leader Phil Berger, R-Rockingham. Moore said at least 30 of the 72 House Republicans dont support the casino language in the budget bill. Saine told The News & Observer of Raleigh that the spinoff bill was requested by members who were opposed to the casino legislation. Meanwhile, Berger has insisted that casino language be in the state budget compromise, and placing the casinos language into a separate bill would not be appropriate. As a result, House and Senate Republicans have been unable to reach a budget agreement for a bill that had been expected to be sign by July 1. It is a novel idea that by tying casinos to Medicaid expansion, they are trying to get House Democratic support to sustain any veto threat in lieu of reduced Republican support, said Zagros Madjd-Sadjadi, an economics professor at Winston-Salem State University. I think it will face some opposition, though, because Medicaid expansion was previously approved, but tied to passing the budget. This is an attempt to expand the scope of that agreement. Democrat response Cooper has been outspoken for months, as have state health Secretary Kody Kinsley and Democratic legislative leaders, about separating Medicaid expansion funding into a separate bill so that the next phase can commence to benefit between 450,000 and 650,000 North Carolinians. People are right to be suspicious, Cooper said. Something has a grip on Republican leaders, and its not the people of North Carolina. Rep. Pricey Harrison, D-Guilford, said Monday she views the proposal to link Medicaid expansion and casinos as terrible policy. We shouldnt be tying health care for more than 500,000 North Carolinians to this gambling proposal. The rumored proposal seems written to accommodate one operator, Cordish, which has been tied to extensive campaign contributions to (legislative) leadership and a spotty record, Harrison said. Harrison said it has been frustrating enough having Medicaid expansion funding delayed because of Republican state budget conflicts. The budget trigger was unfortunate, but was described as necessary because of appropriations involved, Harrison said. Now, we are told that the Medicaid expansion trigger is going to be tied to a casino (and potential) video poker vote. The language is not available, so we dont know what we are voting on. Nor does the public. A statement released by the House Democratic caucus Monday says Republican leadership have broken their Medicaid expansion pledge by refusing to pass a state budget. The letter was signed by 40 House Democrats, including Reps. Amber Baker and Kanika Brown of Forsyth County and Harrison and Ashton Clemmons of Guilford County. They are cynically using health care as a political bargaining chip to force passage of a casino bill developed in secret and written by casino lobbyists, according to the letter. It gives one company a monopoly, and no opportunity for local citizens to vote on whether they want a casino. Republican leaders are gambling with our healthcare and our future. Enough is enough. We are writing this letter to let Republican leadership and the public know we will not be bullied into blindly supporting this bill. The potential to begin Medicaid expansion this year grew dimmer on Aug. 28 when Kinsley said it had been delayed without a new projected start date because state Republican legislative leaders have not agreed on a 2023-24 state budget. The most recent projection had been Dec. 1. 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 said that 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. Harrison cautioned that the state might lose out on the $1.5 billion incentive bonus made available via federal American Rescue Plan Act. Gov. Roy Cooper has ordered all U.S. and North Carolina flags to fly half-staff at state locations on Tuesday from sunup to sundown, in honor of Forsyth County Deputy Auston Smith Reudelhuber, who died on Sept. 9. Reudelhubers funeral, which is closed to the public, takes place at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Rich Fork Baptist Church on Old U.S. 29 in Thomasville. He will be buried at Salisbury National Cemetery. Reudelhuber, who lived in Lexington, was driving a marked sheriffs patrol vehicle north on N.C. 150 when a box truck traveling south went left of the center line and hit Reudelhubers cruiser head-on. The wreck occurred in the Reedy Creek community. Reudelhuber, 32, died in a local hospital of injuries he received in the wreck. William Benton, 24, the driver of the box truck, was not injured. Benton was charged with misdemeanor death by motor vehicle, reckless driving and driving left of center. Reudelhuber served in the U.S. Army on active duty for six years and was a member of the U.S. Army Reserve. He worked for the Davidson County Sheriffs Office for more than three years, and served there as a K-9 officer. He joined the sheriffs office here on March 29, 2021. Cooper expressed sadness over Reudelhubers death. He served North Carolina and the Forsyth County community with distinction, and our prayers are with his family and friends during this most difficult time, the governor said. PHOTOS: Remembering Deputy Auston Smith Reudelhuber Pumpkin spice Monday? .... Not. Id sooner have a rusty fish hook in a finger. For those who remember old politicians or their legacies the death Thursday of former U.S. Sen. Lauch Faircloth brought up a range of memories. Seasoned North Carolina voters whove attained elder status in the community recall Faircloth as one of those old-school Southern Democrats who changed party affiliation and beat Terry Sanford for a Senate seat in 1992. Others, particularly Chamber of Commerce types, might remember Faircloth as the states secretary of commerce under then-Gov. Jim Hunt, along with Sanford, another legendary figure in the states Democratic machine. In Washington, locals focused on the one-term senators wild feud with D.C. Mayor Marion Barry forever infamous for getting caught on video by the FBI smoking crack over the districts finances after the federal government assumed near total control of city operations. A few choice excerpts include: My ability to run a city is exactly that of Mayor Barrys: None at all, Faircloth said. In 1998, when early voting returns showed Faircloth losing his re-election bid to upstart Democrat John Edwards speaking of political disgrace, remember that guy? Barry was downright giddy in sharing his glee. (Faircloth) is so busy picking on me and the residents of the District of Columia that he neglected his constituents in North Carolina. Now he can go back and deal with the pigs, Barry told The Washington Post. Me, Ill remember Faircloth for something else entirely. I met him during that 1992 campaign against Sanford. I was new to the business, a know-it-all shocking, right? and had no clue how much I didnt know. But Duncan McLaughlin Lauch Faircloth did. Back in those days, candidates actually answered questions, mingled after high-dollar fundraisers and sat for lengthy interviews. No handlers and few filters. Faircloth grew up down east in Sampson County. Hed attended High Point College for about a day and a half hed joke that he beat his mother back to the family farm after shed dropped him off. (The truth was that his father had suffered a stroke and he was needed at home.) He became a wealthy man with a range of holdings including cotton and hog farms, construction and car dealerships. At one point, he had a concrete plant near Clinton, N.C. And while he was a member of the state highway commission, that plant sold a lot of concrete to the state after the commission approved the construction of a bypass around tiny Clinton. It seemed like cronyism of the highest order information voters might want. Though its common these days for watchdog groups to review government contracts for such things, in the 50s, 60s and into the 70s, not so much. So during one of those campaign events in 1992, I asked him about the concrete sales thinking that it might be a Mike Wallace/60 Minutes moment. Fairlcoth didnt pause for one second. He smiled warmly and answered with neither surprise nor malice. He sounded more like a patient father (or grandfather) explaining how the world really works than a politician. Son, he said, thats just the way things got done in those days. Faircloth, the son of a cotton farmer turned U.S. senator, died Thursday at home in Clinton. He was 95. Local Oath Keeper sentenced A former High Point police officer joined the long, thin line of pathetic patriots sentenced to prison for participating in the insurrection in the U.S. Capitol. Laura Steele was convicted in March on conspiracy and obstruction of justice charges resulting from the attack on Jan. 6, 2021. She was a member of the Oath Keepers, a group whose members clearly didnt read (or retain much from) whatever oaths theyd sworn in previous lives. U.S. District Judge Amit P. Mehta sentenced her Friday to 12 months and one day in prison and three years of supervised release. Steele was one of four people associated with the Oath Keepers convicted in March. Laura Steele is arguably the most culpable of all five defendants being sentenced, prosecutors for the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia wrote in an arguing for a long active sentence. As someone who spent a career in law enforcement, she was in a better position than most to appreciate the grave dangers posed by her conduct and the conduct of her co-conspirators on January 6. Steele and the other defendants, prosecutors wrote, participated in an unprecedented conspiracy to stop members of Congress from performing their constitutionally required duty to review and certify the results of the 2020 presidential election ...the seriousness of this offense cannot be overstated. Defense attorney Peter Cooper followed Lawyering 101 in advocating for his client. He wrote that Steele regretted her actions and accepted responsibility, and hinted that she had fell under a spell cast by kooky conspiracy nuts. Quite simply her experiences on that day have left an indelible sour taste in her mouth and she wants to put it in the past and close the door as quickly as possible, Cooper wrote in asking for a lenient sentence of home confinement. He wrote that Steele was very frightened about what could happen at her sentencing but she wishes to make the Court aware that she knows shes here based on her own actions and takes responsibility. The six months of cable television with an ankle bracelet seems laughably brief. The government had asked for an active sentence of between 8 years, 1 month and 10 years, 1 month. Whether a gullible dope, a hard-boiled traitor or something in between, a former cop who should have known better is headed to prison. As rooms go, a sleeping porch off the second floor of Reynolda House is fairly unremarkable. Its walls are painted a standard neutral tan; the floor covering an ordinary short-pile green carpet. Banks of windows allow soft morning light to flood in. The sleeping porchand five others like itwere built next to bedrooms at the Reynolds family estate in the early 20th Century. Katharine Reynolds, the wife of tobacco baron R.J. Reynolds, insisted they be included at the magnificent country house. Physicians of the time believed fresh air cured all, and the well-off, which the Reynolds family most certainly was, made sure that porches protected only by awnings were part of the design. Though unremarkable in design, this particular porch off the East Bedroom, gained national notoriety in 1932 when Reynolds heir Zachary Smith Reynolds suffered a fatal gunshot wound there. And until recently, the violent demise of Smith Reynolds was rarely spoken of in public by anyoneor anythingassociated with the family that put Winston-Salem on the map. Power, money and fame Though shaded by conjecture, innuendo and influence, the forensic facts surrounding the night of July 5, 1932 are pretty straightforward. Z. Smith Reynolds, who went by Smith, was shot in the head following a lavish party. His second wife, a nationally known Broadway star Libby Holman who toured the country singing torch songs and his childhood friend and personal secretary Albert Ab Walker, drove him to a local hospital. He died the next morning. Smiths wound was initially determined to be self-inflicted and made national news. The New York Times ran a story under the headline R.J. Reynolds Heir Commits Suicide Relatives Are Mystified. But Forsyth County Sheriff Transou Scott wasnt so sure. A subsequent investigation known a coroners inquest determined that Smith died at the hands of a person or persons unknown. A grand jury indicted Holman and Walker in August for first-degree murder. Before the case could go to trial, the Reynolds family pressed prosecutors to drop all charges. Complicating matters, Holman, Smith Reynolds wife of seven months, was pregnant. Of course, she denied killing her husband. I didnt shoot Smith, she told the Journal in an interview in September 1932. God in heaven knows that. The Reynolds family know it in their hearts. I loved Smith as I never loved anyone before or ever will again. The fullest and richest hours of my life were spent with that dear boy. And thats the point where speculation and salacious speculation took off. Fueled by testimony given by Holman during the inquest, rumors about an affair between Holman and Walker ran wild. A nurse testified that she had seen Holman and Walker canoodling in a room at Baptist Hospital. Holman was asked about rumors that the couple had fought the week before his death because Smith Reynolds had recently learned she was Jewisha charge she denied. And locals took affront when a lawyer, a friend of Holmans family, suggested that the family not hire lawyers from New York because doing so might be offensive to a small town jury. The allure of the Reynolds family name, power and money was intoxicating. At the time of his death, Smith had been living large on an annual allowance of more than $800,000 in todays dollars and stood to inherit $20 million on his 28th birthdaythe equivalent of $440 million in 2023. The death of Smith Reynolds spawned numerous magazine articles, books and blockbuster Hollywood films. Was he murdered? Or did he commit suicide? Either way, the case technically remains unsolved. For years, family representativesrelatives and various charitable foundationsoffered little by way of public comment. That changed in a big way this month when. for the first time, the Reynolda House Museum of Art consented to an exhibit called Smith & Libby. Two Rings, Seven Months, One Bullet. Its based on family interviews, collections, photographs, letters and personal belongings rarely seen and is scheduled to run through Dec. 31 The exhibit is not just focused on Reynolds death. It shows in convincing detail how a tragedy in a family that made generational wealth in tobacco helped usher in a new economic era bringing Wake Forest College to town. And it tells something of Holmans life after Reynolds death. Few know, for example, that she had Coretta Scott King move in with her following the assassination of her husband Martin Luther King Jr. We didnt know if the community was ready for the museum to give its account, said Phil Archer, the museums curator and assistant director. The rest of the world had a crack at it, so why not the museum? Still unsolved Perhaps no one outside the Reynolds family is as well versed in the details of Smith Reynolds life and death as Archer. Hes been at Reynolda House for 25 years, and spent 18 months curating the exhibit. He pored over letters, photographs and hand-written records kept by local authorities including Sheriff Transou. People still know that something terrible happened here and it bothered me that visitors would come away confused, Archer said at a recent preview of the exhibition. Its totally human nature to be intrigued by tragedy and also by mystery. The seeds for an official accounting were sown in 2021, the 90th anniversary of Smith and Holmans weddinga source of mystery itself as they were married in secret in a courthouse in Michigan. Holman was a 27-year-old Broadway star pursued by the smitten Reynolds. He had been married to Anne Cannon, herself an heiress to a textile fortune, but six days after his divorce in 1931, he and Holman were married. The most salacious parts of the story revolved naturally enough around the newlyweds sex life. Libby was bisexual, Archer said. She had had a number of lovers and Smith encouraged her to take other lovers as hed had some trouble (with impotence.) Just as quickly as spelling that out, Archer discounted the notion that Holman and Walker were involved. There was a question of whether she kissed him at the party that night and whether there was some jealousy, he said. Alcohol was involved. But Libby was pregnant. The timing wouldnt have worked out. The larger question, which seems obvious today when modern forensic science is brought to bear, is whether Smith was murdered. The angle of the bullet suggests not. But suicide remained in play as Holman had said under oath at the inquest that Reynolds, who was known to carry a gun, threatened her with murder-suicide. She said that she had seen him put the gun to his own head and revealed a suicide note hes written while a student at a boarding school. Theres no suspicion that it was a planned murder for inheritance money, Archer said. But a struggle? That seems possible. Whatever the cause, Smith Reynolds death did change the course of local history. His share of inheritance went to his siblings, who in turn created the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation. Some of that money eventually went to help bring Wake Forest to town. And as locals (and alumni) are well aware, the college eventually grew into a major part of the local economy. But whats not as well known is the notion of a name change from Wake Forest College to Smith Reynolds University, similar to what took place after Washington Duke gave $85,000 (and 60 acres of land) in 1890 to move Trinity College from Randolph County to Durham. A typewritten letter signed by W.N. Reynolds included in the exhibit suggests the foundation (and the family) backed off a suggestion to rename the school before college officials agreed to the move in 1946. The only thing about the whole matter I regret is the wording in the original proposal or perhaps Smith Reynolds University. It seems to me that the name Wake Forest College could be brought along and become a part of the University as did Trinity College of Duke University, he wrote. As to any question of murder vs. suicide, Archer has his opinion. But hes not saying. Not for public consumption anyhow. Jeezy files for divorce from Jeannie Mai Jeezy has filed for divorce from wife Jeannie Mai after more than two years of marriage. According to court documents obtained by The Atlanta Journal Constitution on Thursday (14.09.23), the 45-year-old 'Put On' rapper - real name Jay Jenkins - has separated from the TV host, 44. Jeezy is said to be seeking joint custody of his and Jeannie's 20-month-old daughter Monaco, and it is understood the pair have a prenuptial agreement in place. The former couple tied the knot at their home in Atlanta on 27 March 2021, after three years of dating. Due to the Covid pandemic their guests had to be tested two days before. Read more here: Princess Diana 'black sheep' sweater sells for almost 1m A previously lost sweater worn by Princess Diana has sold for just shy of 1 million. The famous 'black sheep' jumper, which is made of red wool jumper and is emblazoned with white sheep and one black animal, went under the hammer at Sotheby's Fashion Icons auction in New York and online, and fetched 885,000 ($1.1 million). That's 10 times more than its estimate of between 40,227 to 64,363. What's more, according to Sotheby's, it's the most anyone has paid for a sweater and the biggest sale of an item belonging to the late royal. Sotheby's global head of fashion and accessories Cynthia Houlton said: "This exceptional garment, meticulously preserved, carries the whispers of Princess Diana's grace, charm, and her keen eye for fashion." Read more here: Russell Brand accused of rape, sexual assaults and emotional abuse Russell Brand has been accused of rape, sexual assaults and emotional abuse by four women. The 48-year-old comic, who is expecting his third child with wife Laura Gallacher, is alleged to have committed the offences during a seven-year period from 2006 to 2013 at the peak of his fame. Russell issued a furious denial against the allegations in a video posted to X, where he has 11.1 million followers, and his YouTube channel, on which he has a 6.6 million-strong fanbase, hours before the allegations broke. The claims are the result of a joint investigation by The Sunday Times and The Times newspapers, as well as Channel 4 Dispatches - which is airing a special documentary on the claims at 9pm UK time on Saturday. (16.09.23) The episode was originally listed without a title as a 'Dispatches Special,' with its description reading: "A 90-minute special Dispatchesinvestigation." Read more here: *** Get more recent celeb news here: A 55-year-old Lincoln woman went to jail Sunday for allegedly helping convicted killer Aubrey Trail in a murder-for-hire scheme to extort money from a prison nurse who had smuggled contraband into the prison for him, including a cell phone. Trail even allegedly tried to pressure the nurse into smuggling a firearm into the prison in 2021, about six months before he was sentenced to death for the murder and dismemberment of Sydney Loofe, according to court records filed Friday. In an affidavit for Samantha Al-Rekabi's arrest filed Friday, Nebraska State Patrol Trooper Neal Trantham said the investigation began in March 2021, when an intelligence captain got information from an inmate alleging that Trail had compromised a female medical staff member at the Nebraska Diagnostic & Evaluation Center, now known as the Reception and Treatment Center. He said Al-Rekabi was planning to write a true-crime book about Trail and his crimes and allegedly befriended the nurse at Trail's direction, allowing her to stay at her apartment and giving her gifts of money and a computer. Trantham said that in an interview in 2021, Al-Rekabi denied she was communicating with prison staff members for Trail. But, he said, the investigation turned up recordings believed to be the two of them talking about the compromised nurse bringing in tobacco and a cell phone for him to use in the past. "Trail also mentioned his intent to have a firearm smuggled into the prison," the investigator wrote. "They also discussed the compromised staff member and her desire to have her husband killed in order to prevent him from obtaining her pension (through divorce)." The nurse, who isn't being named because she hasn't been charged, abruptly quit her job without notice three days earlier, on March 15, 2021. Soon after, Trantham said the State Patrol was informed of the allegations and investigators contacted the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services to request recorded prison calls, emails, financial information (commissary funds), and intelligence materials, as well as job application information for the nurse and began to research Al-Rekabi. Trantham detailed recordings of three calls believed to have been between Trail and Al-Rekabi in early 2021. In one, the female voice says: "It's crazy that she's gonna get her pension out just (to) give it to us." Then, the male responds: "She don't have a choice." The woman said she made a mistake "when she sent you that phone." And the male responded that she had made a lot of mistakes, like bringing in chewing tobacco and food. In another excerpt of the call, she said the other woman talked "about bringing you a (gun)." He said she would bring him anything he wants because she wants the phone she gave him back "and she wants us to go away so badly." He said he told her to "... bring me a gun so I can just kill everybody." Trantham said that in an FBI interview in late 2021, the nurse admitted she had confided details with Trail about her troubled relationship with her husband, and Trail later told her he had hired a hitman and made a $2,400 downpayment on her behalf to have her husband killed. In order for her to stop the murder, Trail told her she needed to give him $25,000, which she said she did through Al-Rekabi. "Through training and experience, investigators believe that there was never a legitimate plan to actually pay to have (the nurse)s relatives killed. lnmate Aubrey Trail, with the assistance of Samantha Al-Rekabi, manipulated (the nurse) into the belief that these things would happen if she did not provide the funds that Inmate Trail requested," Trantham said. He said that in an interview this spring, Al-Rekabi alleged she was pulled into Trail's manipulations. At first, she acted as an intermediary between him and his co-defendant, Boswell, and she later feared Trail would turn her in for it or have her and her son killed. Prosecutors have charged Al-Rekabi with extortion. Photos: Aubrey Trail in court Aubrey Trail, 6.9 Aubrey Trail, 6.9 Aubrey Trail, 6.9 Aubrey Trail, 6.9 Aubrey Trail, 6.9 Aubrey Trail, 6.9 Aubrey Trail, 6.9 Aubrey Trail, 6.9 Aubrey Trail, 6.9 Aubrey Trail, 6.9 Aubrey Trail, 6.9 Aubrey Trail Trial, 7.10 Aubrey Trail Trial, 7.10 Aubrey Trail Trial, 7.10 Aubrey Trail Trial, 7.10 Aubrey Trail Trial, 7.10 Aubrey Trail Trial, 7.10 Aubrey Trail Trial, 7.10 Aubrey Trail Trial, 7.10 Aubrey Trail trial, 7.9.19 Aubrey Trail trial, 7.9.19 Aubrey Trail trial, 7.9.19 Aubrey Trail trial, 7.9.19 Aubrey Trail trial, 7.9.19 Aubrey Trail trial, 7.9.19 Aubrey Trail trial, 7.9.19 Aubrey Trail trial, 7.9.19 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.28 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.28 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.28 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.28 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.28 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.28 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.28 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.28 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.28 Aubrey Trail trial, 6.24.2019 Aubrey Trail trial, 6.24.2019 Aubrey Trail Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.18 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.18 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.18 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.18 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.18 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.18 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.18 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.18 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.18 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.18 Aubrey Trail Trial, 6.18 Aubrey Trail plea hearing Aubrey Trail plea hearing Aubrey Trail plea hearing Aubrey Trail plea hearing Aubrey Trail plea hearing Aubrey Trail plea hearing Aubrey Trail ROME Newly discovered correspondence suggests World War II-era Pope Pius XII had detailed information from a trusted German Jesuit that up to 6,000 Jews and Poles were being gassed each day in German-occupied Poland. The documentation undercuts the Holy See's argument that it couldn't verify diplomatic reports of Nazi atrocities to denounce them. The documentation from the Vatican archives, published over the weekend in Italian daily Corriere della Sera, is likely to further fuel the debate about Pius' legacy and his now-stalled beatification campaign. Historians were long divided about Pius' record, with supporters insisting he used quiet diplomacy to save Jewish lives while critics say he remained silent as the Holocaust raged. Corriere reproduced a letter from the German Jesuit priest to Pius' secretary that is included in an upcoming book about the newly opened files of Pius' pontificate by Giovanni Coco, a researcher and archivist in the Vatican's Apostolic Archives. Coco told Corriere that the letter was significant because it represents detailed correspondence about the Nazi extermination of Jews, including in ovens, from an informed church source in Germany who was part of the Catholic anti-Hitler resistance that was able to get otherwise secret information to the Vatican. The letter from the Rev. Lothar Koenig to Pius' secretary, a fellow German Jesuit named the Rev. Robert Leiber, is dated Dec. 14, 1942. Written in German, it addresses Leiber as "Dear friend" and goes on to report that the Nazis were killing up to 6,000 Jews and Poles daily from Rava Ruska, a town in pre-war Poland that is today located in Ukraine, and transporting them to the Belzec death camp. According to the Belzec memorial, which opened in 2004, a total of 500,000 Jews perished at the camp. The memorial's website reports that as many as 3,500 Jews from Rava Ruska were sent to Belzec earlier in 1942 and the city's Jewish ghetto was liquidated Dec. 7-11. "About 3,000-5,000 people were shot on the spot and 2,000-5,000 people were taken to Bezec," the website says. The date of Koenig's letter is significant because it suggests the correspondence from a trusted fellow Jesuit arrived in Pius' office in the days after the ghetto was emptied, and after Pius received multiple diplomatic notes and visits from a variety of envoys of foreign governments from August 1942 onward with reports that up to 1 million Jews were killed by that point in Poland. While it can't be certain that Pius saw the letter, Leiber was Pius' top aide and served the pope when he was the Vatican's ambassador to Germany during the 1920s, suggesting a close working relationship. According to "The Pope at War," by Pulitzer Prize-winning anthropologist David Kertzer, a top secretary of state official, Monsignor Domenico Tardini, told the British envoy to the Vatican in mid-December that the pope couldn't speak out about Nazi atrocities because the Vatican hadn't been able to verify the information. "The novelty and importance of this document comes from this fact: that on the Holocaust, there is now the certainty that Pius XII was receiving from the German Catholic Church exact and detailed news about crimes being perpetrated against Jews," Corriere quoted Coco as saying. However, Coco noted Koenig also urged the Holy See to not make public what he was revealing because he feared for his own life and the lives of the resistance sources who provided the intelligence. Pius' supporters long insisted that he couldn't speak out strongly against the Nazis because of fears of reprisals. In a telephone interview Saturday, Kertzer said the letter could be significant because it could mark the first time a reference to Jews being gassed in ovens was revealed in a letter he said would certainly have been brought to Pius' attention. Kertzer said historians have been eagerly awaiting Coco's book because as a Vatican archivist, Coco had access to a trove of Pius' personal files that weren't yet indexed and made available to scholars when the Vatican opened the Pius archives in March 2020. "When we started working there, it wasn't a secret although it took a while to figure out what kinds of documents were missing," Kertzer said, noting documents from the Vatican's office in Washington during the war years have not been catalogued. Pius' legacy, and the revelations from the newly opened Vatican archives, are to be discussed at a major conference at Rome's Pontifical Gregorian University next month that is notable because of its across-the-spectrum participant list and sponsorship. The Vatican, Israel's Yad Vashem Holocaust research institute, the U.S. Holocaust Memorial as well as the Israeli and U.S. embassies are all backing it, among others. The Vatican secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, is to open the Oct. 9-11 meeting that will feature scholars including Kertzer, Coco and Johan Ickx, the archivist at the Vatican secretariat of state whose own book on the archives, "Pius XII and the Jews" published in 2021, praised Pius and the Vatican's efforts to care for Jews and people fleeing the war. Photos: Preserving the silent witnesses to the Holocaust Outside of the legal community, people may not widely know it, but a small team of lawyers based in a Lincoln office have taken their briefcases and laptops across the state, representing people accused of the worst of the worst crimes. Alleged murderers, serial rapists, abusers who killed kids. While Nebraska is one of just five states without a statewide public defenders office and in Lincoln and Omaha a majority of court appointments go to county-funded public defenders offices, elsewhere in the state judges often appoint the Nebraska Commission on Public Advocacy. In the 2022-2023 fiscal year, the six lawyers employed by the commission were court-appointed to handle 21 first-degree murder cases, 12 cases more on appeal and 15 cases involving violent crime and drug offenses, according to its annual report issued in July. If divided equally among the lawyers, that would be eight each. Thats at the top of the National Public Defense Workload Study, a new set of standards that came out this week, established to ensure competent representation. The study set out to replace the National Advisory Commission (NAC) Caseload Standards in place for the past 50 years, which among other things, lumped all felonies together and said attorneys could handle 150 a year. Jim Mowbray, the commissions chief counsel from its inception in August 1996 until his retirement in 2015, read the new report from his home in Florida and told the Journal Star he was encouraged. It was way past due and years of work in the making, he said. Mowbray said that for years he and other public defense attorneys in Nebraska and across the country used the previous NAC standards as a starting point, but they knew they were flawed. For one thing, they weighted all felonies everything from a drug possession case involving a small amount of drugs to a death-penalty case equally. It was just a numbers game, he said. And, Mowbray said, there wasnt a lot of study that went into the earlier report, whereas the new study used the same Delphi method, which courts have been using for years. I think this is a really well-done report, and the standards that theyve come up with justify the actual hours. It makes sense, he said. He said longtime Lancaster County Public Defender Dennis Keefe was the first in Nebraska to start keeping track of the numbers based on the type of case to come up with a better weighted standard for his office. Mowbray said having the numbers meant Keefe could go to the county board to show them on paper when he needed additional attorneys and why. That likely explains why the office, now led by Public Defender Kristi Egger, fared well in a Lee Enterprises study that applied the new caseload workload standards. But you had to have that data to do that and most offices didnt have that, Mowbray said. He said he likes that the new standards take into consideration things like the huge increase in electronic evidence that comes in discovery now, which he calls a whole new bucket of worms, and the increasing number of problem-solving courts, which he says are brilliant ways to cut down on recidivism and give people a legitimate second chance but also take far more attorney time. Mowbray said the commission for years has operated on its own set of standards, recognizing the 1973 NAC workload standards didnt work when most of the felonies the office handles are murder cases. He knows prosecutors are likely to say the new study overestimates the time necessary for the work. But they have law enforcement officers and the Nebraska State Crime Lab analysts helping in their investigations. Defense attorneys dont have the same luxury. There still are things Mowbray would like to see happen. For years, he tried without success to get the state to consider minimum standards to try certain kinds of cases, like where prosecutors seek the death penalty, and to get the state to put a statewide pay standard in place for contract court-appointed counsel rates. The rate currently varies from a low in Douglas County of $50 an hour for juvenile court and county court cases and $70 for district court cases to a high of $125 an hour in Lancaster and Sarpy counties for appointments across the board. But the majority of counties pay between $95 and $100 an hour. According to a 2022 study by the Nebraska State Bar Association, the number of lawyers willing to take court appointments has decreased significantly in a number of counties, threatening the administration of justice in the state. Just outcomes in the criminal justice system require capable counsel for both the state and the defendant, the report said. They say that when compensation isnt adequately addressed, there is a cost. Fewer lawyers will take court-appointed cases or attorneys will spend less time per case, which inevitably will have an adverse impact on defendants and the legal system. At some point, there is a question of whether ethical and/or constitutional provisions are being met, according to the Bar Association report. Mowbray said he doesnt blame county commissioners who are looking for the lowest bid. If someone is willing to do it for $50 an hour, they dont care as long as they have a law license and can still practice law. Thats good enough for them, he said. Mowbray said he thinks most have a general respect for the work public defenders and contract public defense attorneys are doing, but they see it as a necessary evil. At the commission, which is funded through an indigent defense fee that comes from court filing fees, they save the counties a lot of money, he said. Which was how the office got started, on the heels of a string of big murder cases in Richardson County in the 90s that nearly bankrupted the county. While a steady trend of decreasing case filings (and resulting indigent fee funds) since 2008 has meant money problems, this year the commission, under former chief counsel Jeff Pickens, sought funding to add a seventh lawyer. After his retirement, the office now is run by Todd Lancaster. Mowbray said the Legislature sees the benefit of the commission, but senators still only have so many public tax dollars and dont necessarily see public defense as the first thing they want to pay for. But, he said, the new report will help establish when more public defense lawyers whether with the commission, public defenders or contract attorneys are needed and provide the data to support it. The countys also going to get adequate representation, which they by law have to provide, whether they like it or not, Mowbray said. I think the study will help overall make the system better. Jared Barker was at a low point when he came to Omahas Open Door Mission. The 29-year-old Grand Island native was struggling to get past his alcohol and substance addictions. After being in and out of treatment centers, Barker got his break when his probation officer informed him about Open Door Missions New Life Recovery Program. While he entered the program cynical and hardheaded, Barker ended up embracing the rigid structure, strong support system and friendships he made throughout the four-month program that helps people down on their luck get on track to lead fulfilling lives. I had to realize that God put the authorities above me for a reason, and I needed to submit to them, he told the Omaha World-Herald. When I did, things started to change inside. That reflected on the outside. Now, after graduating from the program Saturday, Barker is looking forward to helping others at Open Door Mission and continuing to build a solid foundation for his life that will allow him to be a good father to his 3-year-old daughter. Barker is just one example of success in turning his life around with the help of Open Door Mission. Nyakong Lia, Sandra Starks, Janelle Wolfe, Sandra Husak, Elijah Knight, Andrew Rubens and Tyler Holmes joined Barker in graduating from the New Life Recovery Program in a ceremony held at Garland Thompson Mens Center in east Omaha. About 60 people graduate from the approximately 15-year-old New Life Recovery Program per year, said Steve Frazee, chief impact officer for Open Door Mission. Some, like Barker, initially struggle. But with the guidance of program counselors and support from their peers, theres usually an A-ha! moment. We just look out for each other, Barker said. (When) we see somebody struggling, we talk to them. We dont just let them sit in their stuff. For Janelle Wolfe, the Aha! moment came after she failed a Breathalyzer. The Open Door Mission staff offered her a spot in the program. It was then that she said she felt Gods calling. It was tough at first. But I knew I needed it, Wolfe told the crowd. I got so much closer to Jesus Christ. With her life back on track, Wolfe said she wants to get an apartment and remain in close touch with her faith as well as the people in her support group. Those who graduate from the program show a lot of determination. For that, Chief Impact Officer Steve Frazee said, graduates deserves their moment in the sun. He said Open Door Mission tries to have six to 10 graduates recognized each month. That gives everybody a chance to be in the spotlight and not be overshadowed or have people get tired of hearing the speeches, he said. We like to focus on their experience here and what they plan to do in the future. For Barker, his ultimate goal is to one day be actively involved in his daughters life in North Dakota. But that will have to wait as he ties up financial loose ends in Nebraska. God wants me here for a reason, he said. Top Journal Star photos for September 2023 Nebraskas second house participated in the legislative process with unprecedented numbers and passion this year. Hundreds showed up in person, filling legislative hearing rooms, overflow rooms and Capitol hallways for hearings on guns, abortion, LGBTQ issues, voter identification and election reform bills. Hundreds more called or wrote state lawmakers or lobbied senators in person. Many came to protest or watch debate. But many also left frustrated at not being able to testify or angry about how a hearing had been managed. A few were arrested for their behavior in and around the legislative chamber. One was banned from the Capitol, at least temporarily. Before lawmakers gather again in January, Speaker of the Legislature John Arch of La Vista hopes to find better ways to ensure that Nebraskans, often dubbed the second house to the states one-house Legislature, can have their voices heard and engage productively with lawmakers. Toward that end, he introduced LR179. The interim study resolution calls for examining issues and concerns around public participation and making recommendations for change. Ensuring that residents of Nebraska have the opportunity to have their voices heard is vital to the legislative process, the resolution said. To ensure fair and useful dialogue, there must be a standard of respect and decorum in place for both the public, that observes, engages, and testifies in front of the Legislature, and the members of the Legislature. Arch said he wants to identify specific things the Legislature can do differently to improve the process. I envision the outcomes could include some new practices implemented by the Legislature and individual committee chairs and also identify where the Legislature can do a better job of communicating our practices/procedures to the public, he said. Currently, legislative committee chairs set most guidelines for hearing testimony. When time is short or the list of testifiers is long, chairs often set time limits on individual testimony with green, yellow and red lights to warn speakers. At times, chairs have limited the total time allocated for proponents, opponents and neutral testimony or have allowed alternating blocks of time, so that committee members can hear different views before the hour gets late and attention spans wane. Other hearing practices are common to all committees and set by legislative rules or tradition. Those include relatively new methods of providing input, including online comments and the option for people with disabilities to provide written, on-the-record testimony. LR179 provides for a study of state laws, rules and regulations, and the Legislatures official and unofficial practices and procedures concerning public participation. It also calls for an examination of constitutional provisions relevant to the publics right to access the State Capitol and attend public activities. The latter provoked some concerns about whether the study was aimed at limiting access. Sen. Tom Briese of Albion, who chairs the Legislatures Executive Board, acknowledged those concerns but denied there was any desire to curb public access. Its important to have an open and transparent process, he said. Enhancing access has to be done in an orderly and fair manner. The study also will look at whether to require that everyone who attends a hearing be offered a chance to testify, the existence of uniform rules on public testimony among committees and alternatives to public hearings for people to make their voices heard. Arch, working with the Executive Board, has invited 13 organizations to reach out to their members and come up with an answer to the question: What do you consider to be the top five areas of concern with respect to the publics ability to effectively engage in the legislative process? According to his office, the 13 organizations have historically been involved with the legislative process and range across the political spectrum. OpenSky Policy Institute and the Platte Institute are among those that have agreed to participate. They have until Sept. 21 to provide their answers. Answers provided by the organizations will then be used to solicit ideas for addressing those top concerns, which could then be turned into recommendations for action. Arch used a similar format in 2020 for an interim study concerning telehealth. The study also will include a survey of how other states handle public participation. Photos: Last day of the 108th Nebraska Legislature The former executive director of a Southeast Nebraska nonprofit could soon face criminal charges after state auditors accused the Pawnee County woman of diverting nearly $220,000 of mostly public funds to her husband's food truck, according to a report released Monday. Bobbie Meints, who served as the executive director of Five Rivers Resource Conservation & Development for at least 10 years before her resignation last November, is accused of funneling $219,963 into her husband's food truck over a five-year period, auditors in Mike Foley's office said in the 20-page report. Meints used the organization's credit card at her husband's business, called Arley's, 162 times from November 2017 to July 2020 for a total of $185,458 in charges that don't appear to have been in exchange for any goods or services, according to the report. And Meints wrote checks or made direct transfers to Arley's 38 times in the amount of $34,505 from September 2020 to November 2022 the month the Steinauer woman resigned from the conservation nonprofit, auditors said in the report. Meints did not respond to an email seeking comment. An email to Arley's also went unreturned Monday. Nearly 91% of Five Rivers' funding came from the state and local governments, including money paid to the nonprofit in the form of grants from the Nebraska Environmental Trust, the state Department of Environment and the Nebraska Department of Agriculture all of which came under fire in Monday's report, along with the Tecumseh-based nonprofit's board of directors. "What occurred at Five Rivers is a prime example of how public monies are placed at serious risk of misuse when a governing board of directors is inattentive to the day-to-day operations of a director under its control, Foley, the state's auditor, said in a news release accompanying the report. Even worse, Foley said, the governmental bodies that provided most of Five Rivers' funding ultimately failed to ensure that those taxpayer dollars were being spent appropriately. Foley's office forwarded its findings to the Johnson County attorney and state Attorney General's office, both of which could pursue criminal charges against Meints. None had been filed as of Monday. Five Rivers, a now-defunct nonprofit that was administratively dissolved in July, set out to "create a better environment in which to live" when it was established in 1993, focusing on resource conservation, beautification and improving the agricultural and business economy in Southeast Nebraska. But by the time Meints allegedly started diverting money from the organization in 2017, the payments she was making to her husband's food truck had "no apparent connection to the aforementioned objectives of Five Rivers," auditors said. Five Rivers representatives couldn't provide adequate documentation to support whether Arleys ever provided any catering services in exchange for the payments. And none of the representatives could recall receiving any catering from the food truck, according to the report. Meints also promoted Arley's on her Facebook account before and after she resigned as Five Rivers' executive director, auditors said in the report. And Meints is accused of using the organization's accounts to pay herself $86,161.17 in 63 installments from January 2020 through October 2022. The payroll checks made out to Meints weren't issued on a consistent basis or at a constant rate, according to the report. Auditors weren't able to determine whether those checks were in line with her approved wages because Five Rivers representatives "were unable to provide adequate documentation" to support the payouts, auditors said. The organization's inadequate record-keeping had raised red flags even before state auditors started their probe of Five Rivers, according to Monday's report, but those warning signs failed to halt state payouts to the nonprofit. The Nebraska Environmental Trust which provided Five Rivers $182,395 in grant funding from January 2022 to November 2022 carried out a "monitoring audit" of the organization in June 2022 after noticing discrepancies in a reimbursement request Five Rivers had submitted to the state agency. Meanwhile, as the Trust sought documentation supporting Five Rivers' grant reimbursement requests, the Nebraska Department of Agriculture continued to pay the organization, awarding Five Rivers $18,011 in August 2022 in what was supposed to be the first installment of the agency's Riparian Vegetation Management Grant worth more than $89,000 altogether. The Ag Department's August payment would be the last state payout to Five Rivers, which accepted Meints' resignation three months later. Top Journal Star photos for September 2023 MADISON September may be back to school for many families, but did you know its also College Savings Month? Celebrated throughout September, College Savings Month aims to encourage families to save for higher education and learn about the benefits of doing so with a 529 plan. If you havent started saving for your loved ones college or career training yet, thats OK. This is a great time to make a plan. In honor of College Savings Month, Edvest 529 is sharing six tips to help Wisconsin families get started on the right path. Open an Edvest 529 account: Wisconsins Edvest 529 plan allows families to save for higher education while taking advantage of compelling tax benefits. Wisconsin taxpayers are eligible for a state income tax deduction from their Edvest 529 account contributions up to $3,860 annually per beneficiary (married couples filing separately and divorced parents may each claim a maximum of $1,930). Additionally, earnings are tax-free when used for qualified expenses like tuition, books, certain room and board expenses and computers. Funds can be used at eligible universities, community colleges, technical schools, and professional schools nationwide and abroad, as well as apprenticeship programs registered and certified with the Secretary of Labor under the National Apprenticeship. Start Saving Now: It is never too early or late to start saving for a students future education expenses. While families are strongly encouraged to open a 529 account when a child is born, you can also consider doing so at other exciting milestones, like kindergarten registration or the start of middle school. Just remember, the earlier you start saving, the more time your money has to potentially grow and benefit from compound earnings. Invite Gifting: College Savings Month can be celebrated by anyone. Grandparents, aunts and uncles, or friends can join in by helping to save for a childs education. Instead of the latest toy or game, invite people to contribute to a loved ones Edvest 529 account. Gifting is perfect for birthdays, holidays, graduations and other special occasions. Encourage Student Contributions: Is your student old enough to have a summer job or earn an allowance for household chores? Consider encouraging them to contribute to their 529 account. Even a small amount can create a shared sense of responsibility and a better understanding of the sacrifice being made on their behalf. Consider Recurring Payroll Contributions: Starting early can be the first key to successful saving. But the second is to contribute to your goal consistently over time. A great way to do this is by setting up payroll direct deposit to your 529 accounts in any amount that fits your budget even $25 per paycheck can add up over time. Furthermore, check with your employer to see if they offer a company match some employers in the state are already doing so. Enter the What Can a 529 Do For You? Sweepstakes: The College Savings Plans Network will be running a nationwide sweepstakes during September where you can enter to win one of nine $529 account contributions to a 529 college savings plan of your choice. Enter at https://www.collegesavings.org/sweepstakes . For more information about Edvest 529 and to open an account, visit Edvest.com. For more than 25 years, Edvest 529 Wisconsins direct-sold 529 college savings plan has been helping families save for higher education expenses. Account owners can choose from 24 investment portfolios, access easy-to-use savings tools, and take advantage of in-state tax benefits for Wisconsin taxpayers. From the first day a student attends 4K to graduation day, every minute in school matters. Unfortunately, chronic absenteeism, defined in Wisconsin as a student missing more than 10% of possible attendance days, is on the rise. To get students back on track to be successful in school and life, the entire community parents, students, educators, businesses, neighbors must come together and make daily student attendance a priority. Here are 10 reasons regular school attendance is so important. Academic success. Regular school attendance is strongly correlated with academic achievement. Racine Unified School District data shows a direct link between our students who are absent the most and low reading levels. The more students are in school, the more opportunities they have to engage in lessons, participate in class discussions and benefit from teacher guidance. This active involvement enhances their understanding of subjects and improves their chance of success on exams and assignments. Lets face it, makeup work just isnt the same! Learning continuity: Consistent school attendance ensures students are able to build upon the knowledge and skills they acquired in previous lessons. Missing school days can lead to knowledge gaps, making it harder for students to catch up and keep up with the class. Social and emotional development: Attending school regularly allows students to interact with their peers, form friendships and develop important social skills. School provides a setting where students learn to collaborate, communicate and navigate various social situations. Not to mention, students only get to partake in all the fun celebrations and activities if theyre in school! Discipline and responsibility: Regular school attendance instills discipline and responsibility in students. It teaches them the importance of being punctual, meeting commitments and following routines, all of which are valuable life skills. Teacher-student interaction: Teachers can better understand their students strengths and challenges when they have regular interactions with them, allowing teachers to provide personalized support and guidance. Access to resources: RUSD schools offer various resources beyond classroom instruction, such as libraries, laboratories, extracurricular activities and counseling services. Attending school ensures students have access to these resources, enhancing their overall educational experience. Health and well-being: RUSD schools focus on physical education and health, promoting overall well-being and a healthy lifestyle. Reduces dropout risk: High rates of school absenteeism are often associated with an increased risk of dropping out of school. Attending school regularly helps students stay engaged and invested in their education. Community and citizenship: School attendance fosters a sense of community and citizenship, helping students develop an understanding of collective responsibility and their role as active members of society. Legal requirements: Wisconsin law requires children to attend school up to a certain age and parents or guardians may face consequences if their children do not attend school regularly or miss too many days of school. Attendance plays a fundamental role in a students educational journey, personal growth and future prospects (including being less likely to live in poverty), but it also impacts everyone in that childs school community. If a student in Wisconsin misses school on the third Friday in September, the school doesnt receive state funding for that student, reducing the amount of money schools have to spend on resources for all students. Showing up matters. Just being there to hear the lesson, practice it with a teachers guidance and work with classmates, makes all the difference for students. From early childhood all the way through high school, every minute in school counts. Lets work together to make sure our children are in school every day. Janell Decker is acting chief academic officer for Racine Unified School District. 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 Enrollment is down 317 students in the Kenosha Unified School District, but not as much as the district earlier projected. The district's official state Third Friday count for 2023-24 is 18,870 students, down just under 1.7% compared to 19,187 in 2022-23. Last December, Kenosha Unified was projecting an overall enrollment of 18,826, a decrease of 361 students. Each September, the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction requires districts to gather and report an enrollment headcount of students receiving primary educational services from the district on the third Friday of September. The number is used by the state to determine state revenue limits, which is the amount of funding Kenosha Unified is entitled to receive from general state aid and local tax levies. "We were as near spot-on as projected," said Kenosha Unified's Chief Information Officer Kris Keckler. "(The decrease) is due to a declining birth rate, not a mass exodus of students," Keckler said. "There are fewer babies being born." Since 2009, the greater Kenosha Unified boundary area has experienced a decreased birth rate, now averaging approximately 500 fewer children born each year compared to a high of 1,953 births in 2008. Within the district's attendance centers, shifts in student populations occur on a year-to-year basis based on how many students move in and out of the district, across boundary lines, or are in the grade levels. The largest grade level decrease occurred district-wide in kindergarten, which had 105 fewer students this academic year than it did a year ago. By grade level, other shifts included third grade which dropped by 118, and eighth grade, lower by 160. The eighth grade decrease is due to the 2008-09 recession and severe one-year drop in subsequent births, officials said. Kenosha Unified is not alone in its declining enrollment. Declining birth rates have affected school districts across the state. "A vast majority of districts are facing the exact same issue," Keckler said. The closure of Wilson Elementary School also affected school enrollment counts, as 117 students who last year attended Wilson are now enrolled in other schools across the district. As the district considers consolidation methods through its Right-Sizing Committee, Keckler said the numbers should not come as a surprise to those on the panel because it reinforces why the group was formed. More information on the committee can be found at www.kusd.edu/district/rightsizing. Monday KENOSHA COUNTY HUMAN SERVICES BOARD: 4 p.m., Kenosha County Job Center, Home Services Building, 8600 Sheridan Road, Room North 2. Items on the agenda include: response to opioid crisis presentation, comments and reports. PLEASANT PRAIRIE PLAN COMMISSION: 5 p.m., at the Village Hall Auditorium, 9915 39th Ave. Items on the agenda include: consider approval of dedication of 92nd Place, 64th Court and 66th Avenue as public streets; public hearing on zoning text amendment to Creekside Crossing Condominiums Planned Unit Development for the same streets; consider approval of Land division and Development Control Ordinance to amend section relating to financial security for developmental projects. KENOSHA CITY COUNCIL FINANCE COMMITTEE: 6 p.m., at the municipal building, 625 52nd St., Room 204. Items on the agenda include: proposed resolutions to levy special charges on various parcels of property on file in Office of the City Clerk; proposed resolutions for special charges assessed properties. KENOSHA CITY COUNCIL: 7 p.m., at the municipal building, 625 52nd St., in the Council Chambers, Room 200. Items on the agenda include: public hearing on conditional use permit amendment for 17,200 square foot vehicle maintenance facility at 8100 60th St. (Associated Wholesale Grocers); license and permit requests and public hearings; public hearing on ordinance to crate Code section regarding public bidding; public hearing on ordinance to amend Code regarding drug paraphernalia; resolution on amendment to cit bond schedule section on drug paraphernalia; acceptance of 57th Street lighting project (57th Street, Third Avenue to Fifth Avenue) as completed with final payment of $82,055; accept joint, crack cleaning and sealing (citywide locations) as completed by National Industrial Maintenance Inc. of East Chicago, Ind., and payment of $129,500; accept sidewalk and curb/gutter work (locations south of 60th Street) as completed by Forward Contractors of Grafton, and final payment of $308,960. Tuesday KENOSHA POLICE & FIRE COMMISSION: 9 a.m., at the at the municipal building, 625 52nd St., Room 202. Items on the agenda include: reports for the month of August; receive and file complaints; update from Police Department regarding July 20 incident; chief and commissioners comments; and a closed session for discussing Fire Chief recruitment. KENOSHA COUNTY CHAPTER 980 SEXUALLY VIOLENT PERSONS PLACEMENT REVIEW COMMITTEE: 2:30 p.m., Kenosha County Job Center, 8600 Sheridan Road, in the Office of the Director Conference Room (use entrance D). Items on the agenda include: update/status review; review/discussion of information related to subjects; discussion on potential placement and search partners. KENOSHA PUBLIC MUSEUMS BOARD OF TRUSTEES: 3:30 p.m., in the Procarione Classroom of the Civil War Museum, 5400 First Ave. This is a session of the Board Handbook AD Hoc Committee to discuss updates to the Board of Trustees Handbook. KENOSHA REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY: 5 p.m., at the municipal building, 625 52nd St., Room 204. Items on the agenda include: creating of the Uptown East Subcommittee; report on Uptown East Property Condition Survey; discussion of public safety inn Uptown are; update on proposed City Housing Initiative. KENOSHA COUNTY YOUTH AS RESOURCES BOARD: 5 p.m., at the Kenosha Area Business Alliance/United Way, 5500 Sixth Ave., Suite 210. Items on the agenda include: YAR overview, grant application and voting process; committee breakouts, review project books. SOMERS VILLAGE BOARD: 5:30 p.m., at the Village/Town Hall, 7511 12th St. This is a work session with agenda items including: continued discussion of contracting for code enforcement services; presentation from Ehlers regarding the villages updated financial management plan; review and discuss license and permit requests; possible closed session to discuss fire chief position employment, promotion, compensation or performance evaluation data. KENOSHA COUNTY BOARD: 7 p.m., at the Kenosha County Administration Building, 1010 56th St., in the third floor County Board chambers. Items on the agenda include: license and permit applications; appointment of Brian Bashaw to the Joint Services Board; resolution authorizing transfer of land parcel taken by tax deed to the city; land use rezoning ordinance for property in Town of Randall. Thursday KENOSHA CITY PLAN COMMISSION: 5 p.m., at the municipal building, 625 52nd St., Room 202. Items on the agenda include: public hearing on conditional use permit for a 105 foot tall communication tower at 6229 99th Ave. (Verizon/Kenosha Water Utility); public hearing on conditional use permit amendment for 3,035 square foot restaurant with a drive-thru at 7305 122th Ave., for a pylon sign (Popeyes); public hearing on request to initiate the rezoning of property at 8813 38th St. and 3820 88th Avenue from A-2 agriculture to IP industrial park district. KENOSHA COUNTY BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS: 6 p.m., at the Kenosha County Center, 1960 75th St., Bristol, in Conference Room A. Items on the agenda include: variance request in Town of Randall; monthly reports. KENOSHA COUNTY RACIAL & ETHNIC EQUITY COMMISSION: 6 p.m., at the Kenosha County Center, 1960 75th St., Bristol, in the Public Hearing Room. Items on the agenda include: subcommittee reports; resolution on recognition of Native American Heritage Monday; recommendation addressing disparities in education in Kenosha County; recommendation on expanding the Wisconsin Parental Choice Program to Kenosha County. There was a brief pause in the Vernon County Fair, Saturday afternoon, when rides were shut down due to lightning in the area. Bill Marohl, treasurer of the Vernon County Agricultural Society Board of Directors, said the rides were shut down around 3:30 p.m. because of the lightning. He said they were shut down for about an hour and a half. I dont think it affected attendance; people sat in their cars, Marohl said Sunday afternoon. The demo derby was packed. Marohl said there was good attendance at the fair; however, he didnt have the exact number yet for 2023. Attendance numbers will be reported at the agricultural societys annual meeting in December. We were very pleased with the attendance. Were guessing it was as good as last year. The total four-day attendance for the 2022 fair was 21,400. The board, he said, was thankful for the positive comments about the fair on Facebook. The 167th fair will be held Sept. 11-15, 2024. Fairest of the Fair 50th reunion held The fair celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Fairest of the Fair program with a reunion, Saturday afternoon. A special program was held on the Bob Fredrick Free Stage, followed by refreshments in the Senior Citizen Building for the past Fairests of the Fair and attendants, Fairest of the Fair Committee members and program coordinators. Current Fairest of the Fair Vivian Stephenson was the master of ceremonies. In 1972, the Vernon County Agricultural Society/Fair Board decided to establish the Fairest of the Fair to represent the fair throughout the county and compete for the Wisconsin Fairest of the Fairs at the Wisconsin Association of Fairs annual meeting in January, Stephenson said. On Sept. 14, 1972, as a kickoff to the fair, eight young women vied to be the first Fairest of the Fair. The candidates and their sponsors were: Mary Vangen, Retreat Ramblers 4-H Club; Debbie Parr, La Farge FFA; Waneeta Jerman, Tewalt Toilers 4-H Club; Ann Louise Sidie, Westby Lions Club; Lisa Erlandson, Westby FFA; Teresa Rudie, Seas Branch Smithies 4-H Club; Dawn Chapman, La Crosse Sorge; and Mary Kay Woodhouse, Furlano IGA. Paul Zube, (fair board) president at the time, crowned Mary Vangen the first Fairest of the Fair, Stephenson said. Since that first year we have had 48 wonderful ladies serve as Vernon County Fairest of the Fair, including two who went on to become Wisconsin Fairest of the Fairs. It was noted the 2019 Fairest of the Fair was held over for 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic. Stephenson read a forward written by Wyman Cade for the Fairest of the Fair booklet in 2006, the year the fair celebrated 150 years. At the time, Cade was chairperson of the Fairest of the Fair Committee. The program has promoted the Vernon County Fair and much more, Cade wrote. It is the responsibility of each Fairest of the Fair to promote educational opportunities, community involvement and fun for the entire family. These values are promoted to children, parents, community leaders and the media. Many of the former Fairests of the Fair have noted that this was much more than just a learning opportunity. Serving as the Vernon County Fairest of the Fair provided them with skills in communication, public relations, poise, spontaneity, charisma and a multitude of lifelong lessons. They have learned about the Vernon County area, its agriculture, industry and people. Being Fairest of the Fair has taken them to various cities, unique events and unforgettable places in Vernon County and throughout the state. They met with a variety of people that helped and supported them throughout their year as Fairest and for many years after. Our Fairest of the Fairs passion for the Vernon County Fair did not end at the end of their reign. These amazing women continue to promote the importance and value of county fairs in their new communities and cherish the opportunities they experience during their year In 2021, Stephenson said, the Junior Fairest of the Fair was established as a way to introduce younger ladies to the Fairest of the Fair program. The Junior Fairest has the opportunity to learn from the reigning Fairest, in hopes they will want to run for Fairest of the Fair when they are older. Stephenson read the names of the past Fairests and their attendants, and the past Junior Fairests. Bonnie (Bagstad) Anderson, 1976-77 Fairest of the Fair and 1977 State Fairest of the Fairs, and Alexis (Nickelotti) Vesbach, 2010-11 Fairest of the Fair and 2011 State Fairest of the Fairs, were called forward to share a few words. Being Fairest of the Fair has been a thrill, Anderson said. It was an absolute dream come true representing Vernon County. Vesbach said she showed swine and ceramics at the fair. I enjoyed exhibiting and the excitement every year. It was a pleasure to represent the fair. She said life has come full circle, as her children are now showing at the fair. She said no matter what brought people to the fair, she encouraged them to find something new. Theres something for everyone. The Warrens Cranberry Festival is set to roll for the 50th time, and there will be lots of help to celebrate the milestone. Seventy-six past festival queens and princesses from as far away as New York and Colorado are expected to return to their cranberry roots. Theyre coming from everywhere, said festival general manager Kim Schroeder, We have a very successful program to get that many people to come back. The former royalty will have plenty of company. The festival, set for Sept. 22-24 in a village of 350 residents, is anticipating 145,000 visitors during the three days. Most arrive in search of merchandise offered by 1,200 vendors who sell a wide variety of clothing, jewelry, collectibles, food and arts and crafts. Were mainly known for our shopping, Schroeder said. People come here to get an early start on their Christmas shopping. If they come looking for something, they can find it here. The inaugural Cranfest was held in 1973, when the event featured 75 booths and attracted 3,500 visitors. It has been held ever year since, except for the COVID-19 year in 2020. In addition to the shopping, the festival features a wide array of contests, walking tours of working cranberry marshes, live music, food booths and the crowning of the 2023-24 Cranfest royalty. The festival regularly attracts celebrities. This year, 2023 Miss America and Wisconsin native Grace Stanke will pay a visit and join a reception for the Cranfest royalty. The festival is capped by the Sunday parade that starts at 1 p.m. It begins with a flyover, followed by the parade that this year features the Screaming Eagles Marching Band from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. In keeping with the 50th anniversary theme, this years parade marshals are members of the Barth Robinette family of Warrens. Barth Robinette has attended all 50 festivals. The festival is open 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. all three days, and admission is free. For a more detailed lists of events, visit cranfest.com. For 15 months, Wisconsin abortion providers have either halted their services entirely or relocated to do them in another state as a lawsuit seeks to clarify whether an 1849 law on the books applies to consensual abortions. Confident that the law doesnt apply to abortions a feeling bolstered by a Dane County judge ruling in July that there is no such thing as an 1849 Abortion Ban in Wisconsin Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin is resuming its abortion services on Monday. Anti-abortion advocates and Republicans say the organizations resumption of services is morally wrong and legally murky at best. Theres no current injunction preventing prosecutors from enforcing the 1849 law in cases of abortion, and for over a year many Wisconsinites assumed the law banned the procedure in almost every case. But for abortion providers who say they havent been able to provide patients the care they sometimes need, the news comes as a great relief. Weve politicized abortion so much that its made it really difficult for women to even talk about it, Dr. Kristin Lyerly said. And weve got to be able to have honest, open conversations about our health care, whether were talking about abortion care, or managing a cancer diagnosis, figuring out when youre going to get your colonoscopy all of these things are personal, and they require honest, open conversations. Were bringing that back to Wisconsin, and yesterday was a big step in making that happen, she said. Abortion providers took different steps to provide the service when the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the constitutional right to an abortion in June 2022, leading all Wisconsins clinics to shutter. Dr. Allie Linton, associate medical director of Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin, said the organization has had to reject some patients during the past 15 months. I think some of us sort of live and breathe this and and think that everybody is aware of all of the nuances of abortion access in Wisconsin, she said. For most of our patients, this is health care, and theyre just coming in to receive services, and many times theyre learning for the first time that thats not accessible. Out-of-state access Linton said she has traveled with Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin physicians to provide abortions in Illinois. Theres always a powerful moment when we are seeing a patient in Illinois and we ask them where they came from and they say Wisconsin, and we say, We are too, and theres just this immediate bond and understanding that all of us know that this is important care, and that we will do everything we can to make sure that they can access it, she said. Lyerly provided telehealth abortion services in Minnesota after the June 2022 U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade and then began travelling to Minnesota to provide general obstetrics and gynecology care last November. Since July she has been providing obstetrics and gynecology care in Arizona, which is where she was when Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin announced last Thursday that it was reopening abortion services this week. Lyerly said the past 15 months, when abortion wasnt available in Wisconsin, had a chilling effect on Wisconsinites, medical students and residents. Weve all been hoping that we can stay in the state because its where we want to be, she said. But weve also recognized that theres this possibility that things can move in a different direction. And I wish that I could be with my colleagues as this news has been unfolding, just to be able to celebrate a little bit with them. Lyerly is now planning to come back to Wisconsin. Im really looking forward to coming back home, she said. My kids are at home. My whole familys there and has been for generations. Lyerly isnt scheduled for the clinics first slots, but she said shell be happy to help out where shes needed. Before the decision overturning Roe, Lyerly primarily worked in Planned Parenthoods Sheboygan clinic, which isnt reopening quite yet. Unlike the district attorneys in Dane County and Milwaukee County, Sheboygan County District Attorney Joel Urmanski said he would prosecute providers under the 1849 law. Until an injunction comes, the risk of prosecution under the 1849 law still exists. If this law is enforced, theres the potential for criminal penalties, but I have to weigh that against the penalties that my patients are experiencing by not being able to access the care that they need, Lyerly said. And this care in many cases determines what happens with the rest of their lives. Ongoing conversation Abortion providers and their lawyers accelerated their conversations about reopening services earlier this summer, after Dane County Judge Diane Schlipper in July ruled the 1849 law didnt apply to abortions. Legal experts recognized that there was a spectrum of risk associated with reopening services so soon. The Dane County ruling gave abortion providers some confidence that the 174-year-old law didnt apply to the services they provided, but its not as concrete a ruling as an injunction against enforcing the law would be. Nor would an injunction provide providers with as much confidence as a Wisconsin Supreme Court ruling. We are making this decision now because we know that Wisconsinites cannot and should not wait any longer to receive this essential and life-saving care in their home state, Linton said. I know I am joined by my colleagues and many in the medical community and saying Im incredibly grateful to be taking this very important step on that path forward. If Schlipper, as expected, issues a declaration prohibiting prosecutors from going after abortion providers under the 1849 law, Wisconsin would revert to the abortion regulations active during the Roe v. Wade era. Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin stated that as of Monday theyll be operating under those laws, which ban abortions 20 weeks after probable fertilization. Additionally, women seeking abortions will have to first have an ultrasound, have a counseling period and wait a full day before the procedure. For pill abortions, patients will have to schedule two visits with the same physician one for a counseling appointment and one to get the pills. Laws prohibit telehealth visits and mailing the abortion pill to the patient. This story has been updated to clarify Dr. Kristin Lyerly's role in Arizona and Minnesota. The Supreme Court fight over an abortion pill: What's next? Intro What is mifepristone? How did the case get started? How did the case get to the Supreme Court? What could happen next? A closer look No one likes to pay insurance premiums. But when disaster strikes, they sure are relieved to have it. That is what the growing bipartisan group No Labels is offering the electorate. Poll after poll shows that a majority of Americans do not want a 2020 rematch between President Joe Biden and former president Donald Trump in 2024. It is hard to imagine a sequence of events that changes the polling or gets better for either candidate, especially since Biden will only get older and Trumps legal liabilities will increase over time. Imagine the following scenario, which is not beyond imagination: It is late September 2024, and the nominating conventions have passed. The Republicans met in July and nominated Trump. The Democrats convened in August and incumbent Biden was renominated. Trump has been convicted in the federal trial for his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. Trumps trial for his mishandling of classified documents is ongoing in Florida, as well as his Georgia trial over election interference. The American public has learned a great deal of information during the trials, and a majority of the electorate thinks Trump should be disqualified from holding the office of the presidency. All the while, President Bidens approval numbers remain low, with Vice President Kamala Harris even lower. Then Biden has a major health event, and both confidence in him and enthusiasm for the general election tanks. With that sequence of events, wouldn't the American people would be relieved to have another choice -- an insurance policy to avert an electoral debacle? This is what No Labels, established in 2009, is offering. No Labels spent its first decade working to build a bipartisan governing coalition in Congress. It helped create the House Problem Solvers Caucus and an allied Senate group that led to passage of the historic 2021 infrastructure bill. Later that year, No Labels launched a project to secure nationwide ballot access to enable the potential nomination of an independent Unity Ticket in 2024. No Labels identifies itself as a growing national movement of common-sense Americans pushing our leaders together to solve our countrys biggest problems. Our movement includes conservatives, liberals and everyone in between," its website states. "But we are all united by certain fundamental beliefs. We care about this country more than the demands of any political party. We believe political leaders need to listen more to the majority of Americans and less to extremists on the far left and far right. We are grateful to live in a country where we can openly disagree with other people. We believe America isnt perfect, but we love this country and would not want to live any place else. We can still love and respect people who do not share our political opinions. We support, and are grateful for, the U.S. military. No Labels has been working on obtaining ballot access in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. A potential unity ticket would include a Democrat and a Republican candidate, one on the top of the ticket and one on the bottom of the ticket. But only if the American people say that is what they want. No Labels has not yet committed to offering its ballot line to a presidential ticket. But its polling shows 63% of Americans would be open to supporting a moderate independent presidential candidate in 2024 if the alternatives are Trump and Biden. No Labels' detractors, who at this time are mostly Democrats, worry about the votes a potential unity ticket would take from Biden and Harris. The same critics have been silent on Green Party candidate Cornel Wests potential vote share. No Labels insists it will not be a spoiler for Trump. Instead, it is doing the hard work of getting ballot access and would only offer its ballot line to a Unity Ticket if it had a real shot to win the White House. No Labels understands the threat that Trump poses to our constitutional order. No Labels co-chairs former U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman and Benjamin Chavis Jr. have said unequivocally: Donald Trump should never again be president of the United States. If the Democratic and Republican parties continue on their current paths, both will be complicit in nominating candidates that a majority of American voters do not want. Neither political party should be limiting the choices for the American electorate. That is undemocratic. So if it turns out that the American people want another choice and would actually vote for a Unity ticket, No Labels will be ready to go. I for one would be glad that the glass will be there in 2024 to break in case of an emergency. Area children can enter an art contest with the theme Ability ... Not Disability. The 24th annual youth art contest of Societys Assets is open to kindergartners through high school seniors in Walworth, Kenosha, Racine and Jefferson counties. Societys Assets is a resource for people with disabilities, offering supportive home and personal care, home and vehicle modifications and numerous other benefits. Adrienne Stiger, of Societys Assets Community Relations Committee, said there were over 600 entries in last years contest. The committee oversees the contest. The committee believes this project creates disability awareness and acceptance and promotes positive action, said Stiger. It also shares our mission with young people in the community. Schools within the four-county service area of Societys Assets will receive contest information packets. Parents and students can also contact Societys Assets for entry blanks or access them at www.societysassets.org. Prizes will be awarded to winners in each of the four grade categories. Contest entries must be turned into a Societys Assets office by Friday, Nov. 3, at 4:30 p.m. Offices are at 615 E. Geneva St., Elkhorn; 5455 Sheridan Road, Kenosha; and 5200 Washington Ave., Suite 225, Racine. Judging will be later in November. Winning entries from each category are permanently displayed at the Racine office. Call 262-637-9182, ext. 3605, for more information. Best Resorter covers of 2022 show Lake Geneva area at its best Resorter cover: Jan. 5, 2022 Resorter cover: March 30, 2022 Resorter cover: May 4, 2022 Resorter cover: July 6, 2022 Resorter cover: July 27, 2022 Resorter cover: Aug. 3, 2022 Resorter cover: Aug. 31, 2022 Resorter cover: Sept. 14, 2022 Resorter cover: Nov. 2, 2022 Resorter cover: Dec. 7, 2022 EIR LEAD EDITORIAL FOR MONDAY SEPTEMBER 18, 2023 Lyndon LaRouches International Development Bank Must Be Realized Now Sept. 17, 2023, (EIRNS)Sept. 18 marks what would have been the 95th birthday of that statesman of great genius of mind, Frederick R. Fred Wills, who was Foreign Minister of Guyana from 1975-78; who gave a momentous speech to the UN General Assembly Debate on a new world economic order on Sept. 27, 1976a month after the Non-Aligned Movement summit in Colombo, Sri Lanka, which embraced Lyndon LaRouches International Development Bank proposal; and who remained a constant collaborator of LaRouche in many efforts until Fred Wills death on Feb. 15, 1992. What he told a General Assembly Special Session a year earlier on Sept. 8, 1975 is timely now, as shown by these excerpts: The hour is critical. The expectations are that we will agree on concrete steps that will represent a real advance towards the new order on which the majority of mankind insists. The imperatives for change are clear. [The] Bretton-Woods system, reinforced by the Marshall Plan, introduced a new era in the post-war world which promised a redress of economic disequilibrium in the developed world. Predictably, this system failed to satisfy the aspirations of the developing nations, and it is this failure in especial that introduces the note of urgency in our debate. It is imperative that we should fashion new structures and new institutions to arrest the widening gap between the developed market economies and the producers of raw materials and semi-manufactures. But there are other imperatives. The victory of the people in Indo-China, the relentless march of decolonization in Southern Africa both point to the erosion of the traditional structures of power. There are some who take comfort in the theory that the global order of colonial power has disappeared. But retreat from political domination is not ipso facto a retreat from colonialism. The structure of economic power built upon the foundations of the old colonial order persists with remarkable tenacity and endurance.... At Lima [the Non-Aligned Movement Foreign Ministers meeting in Peru] just before we assembled here in New York, the Non-aligned countries took further important ... decisions Mr. President, on the establishment of supportive institutions for programmes of collective self-reliance, decisions for the establishment of a Solidarity Fund for Economic and Social Development of Non-aligned countries, a Special Fund for the financing of buffer stocks for raw materials and primary products exported by developing countries and a Council of Associations of developing countries which are producers as well as exporters of raw materials. Collective self-reliance is not co-terminous with confrontation. The processes of development which it will generate in the southern part of the world can and will provide gains for the international community as a whole. The new economic order must therefore be designed to foster all efforts of self-reliance on the part of the developing countries - efforts both national and collective. True development cannot be imposed ab extra, but must be part of the internal dynamics of growth. The international framework must therefore create the conditions and provide support within which self-reliance can flourish. President John F. Kennedy had explained to an earlier General Assembly Debate, on Sept. 20, 1963, that the world needed, to achieve peace, a joint U.S.-U.S.S.R. manned mission to the Moon. JFK presented that completely serious proposal in the depth of the Cold War. The Schiller Institute will mark 60 years since that speech, and will hold a UN rally and choral music performance the following day, Sept. 21, which marks International Peace Day. On Sept. 9, the Schiller Institute held an important international conference representing the two imperatives of peace and a new international architecture of rapid economic development. The Institutes founder Helga Zepp-LaRouche reflected on that event in her webcast Sept. 14: What we did in our conference was an effort to put the perspective of the Global South on the agenda, so that people in the North can actually hear first-hand from very important spokesmen of the Global South, what these countries aspire to, and why it would be in the very best interest of the countries of Europe and the United States to cooperate with this new, emerging order.... Very important in the first panel, was that not only did we have a very high-ranking diplomat from the BRICS countries itself, we had several Americans; I think this is very important that there are Americans who are reasonablenaturally, Diane Sare, who is running a very successful campaign for U.S. Senate in New York; we had Scott Ritter, Ray McGovern, and several very important representatives of churches in the United States, both Catholic and also some other denominations.... And naturally, the second panel was very, very interesting, because you had spokesmen from Latin America, South Africa, India, who would absolutely express very clearly how the majority of the world is looking at the present processes.... So please take the time to watch this. On 15 September US Attorney Generalannounced that the son of the imprisoned Mexican drug kingpin had been extradited from Mexico to the US. End of preview - This article contains approximately 401 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options On 16 September Brazils Presidentattended the summit of the G77 group of developing economies and China in Havana, Cuba, where he also held bilateral talks with his Cuban counterpart End of preview - This article contains approximately 401 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options On 17 September Colombias government began three days of talks with the Estado Mayor Central (EMC), an alliance of dissident units of the Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia (Farc) guerrilla group, to discuss peace talks and a bilateral ceasefire. End of preview - This article contains approximately 396 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options On a gray and rainy Saturday, buses arrive continually at a base station of Japans Mount Fuji. The buses release foreign visitors in front of stores and restaurants. The area looks similar to a theme park. It is not what most Japanese would expect below the 3,776-meter mountain. Mt Fuji is considered an important religious area. And Japanese honor the mountain for its perfectly balanced form. Hey, no smoking here! a store worker told a man wearing shorts and holding a can of beer. He was standing in front of the red torii gate which marks the entrance to the Shinto religious center ahead. Mt Fuji sits between the Yamanashi and Shizuoka areas in eastern Japan. It has always been popular with local and foreign visitors. But a recent increase in visitors to Japan has led to high levels of pollution and other difficulties, officials say. They add they may be forced to take extreme measures. They may restrict the number of visitors by limiting the only way to visit the mountain by a yet-to-be-built public transportation system. Fuji faces a real crisis, Masatake Izumi, a Yamanashi area official, told reporters recently. It was the last weekend before the paths closed for the year. It's uncontrollable and we fear that Mt Fuji will soon become so unattractive, nobody would want to climb it, he said. Mt Fuji was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage area 10 years ago, further increasing its popularity. World Heritage areas are places that the UN protects for having great value to humanity. But the listing came with conditions that Japan reduce the number of visitors, environmental harm from visitors, and fix man-made areas designed for visitors. However, the number of visitors has increased. Subaru, the fifth and largest base station, had about 4 million visitors this summer. That is a 50 percent increase from 2013. Despite the hard work of cleaners, businesses, and volunteers, social media is filled with posts about dirty bathrooms and waste along the climbing path. Izumi worries that the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), which advises the World Heritage Committee, could come looking for an update. Bullet climbing is where climbers try to climb Japans tallest mountain for sunrise and go down the mountain on the same day. Officials say that it is a growing problem as well. Rescue requests totaled 61 this year, up 50 percent from last year. Non-Japanese visitors make up about 25 percent, Shizuoka area police found. An official said most were poorly equipped, suffering from cold temperatures or the height of the mountain. Yamanashi police did not have similar data. One local visitor said restrictions will have to come. "Any Japanese person would want to climb Mt Fuji at least once in their life," said 62-year-old Jun Shibazaki, who arrived to visit. "But it's so crowded. Limited entry might be something we have to live with." Im Gregory Stachel. Mariko Katsumura reported this story for Reuters. Gregory Stachel adapted the story for VOA Learning English. _________________________________________________ Words in This Story theme park n. an amusement park where the rides and attractions are based on a particular theme unattractive adj. not beautiful, interesting, or pleasing update n. a report that includes the most recent information about something crowded adj. filled with too many people or things It is lunchtime. And mosquitoes find their way to Ella Branhams arm at a Salt Lake City lab in the American state of Utah. They're not very aggressive and they're kind of picky eaters, said Branham. She breathed into a glass tank to attract the insects to the carbon dioxide in her breath. So I'll be feeding them with my arm. Branham had volunteered to let the South American mosquitoes, called sabethes cyaneus, feed on her blood. She is doing so to help produce eggs and maintain the colony for education and research at the Salt Lake City Mosquito Abatement District. The district is one of many mosquito control areas around the United States that seek to control one of the world's deadliest animals. Mosquitoes are expected to strengthen as climate change creates a warmer and wetter environment. Mosquitoes can carry viruses including dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya and Zika. They are especially threatening to public health in Asia and Africa but are closely watched in the United States. Local agencies reported more than 1,100 cases of West Nile virus in 2022, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Most humans who get West Nile show no symptoms. But for some, it can cause vomiting, fever and in rare cases seizures or meningitis. Over roughly the last 25 years, nearly 3,000 deaths and more than 25,000 hospitalizations connected to West Nile were reported throughout the U.S., mostly in August. West Nile deaths have been reported this year in states including Texas and Colorado. Mosquitoes are also thought to have caused malaria infections of people in Maryland, Florida and Texas. Ary Faraji is a disease expert and the director of the Salt Lake City Mosquito Abatement District. He said the mosquito season is starting earlier and lasting longer as the climate has warmed. The district used to shut down each year in mid-September, but that has gotten later and later. Last year, district workers were still setting and checking traps until late November. And this year, workers estimated that there were five times as many mosquitos in May compared to the average year. There was an unusually snowy winter in Salt Lake City and a very rainy spring that left more water for mosquitoes to breed in. That is where the health threat comes in. While both males and females feed on sugar or nectar throughout their lives, females require blood to provide nutrition to their eggs. The workers, including scientists and students, use drones, boats and vehicles to trap, sort and test mosquitos for viruses. Their work considers how things like weather systems and population growth will affect the spread of disease. The more people there are close to a lot of mosquitos, the higher the chance of spread, Faraji said. The wetland areas surrounding Utah's Great Salt Lake are problematic, he added. Though dangerous, mosquitoes are also important to ecosystems throughout the world. Some serve as pollinators or food sources to fish, birds and frogs. We try to maintain a balance and suppress them to the point that theyre not negatively affecting communities, Faraji said. Taking them away would definitely negatively impact our ecosystem overall. Im Dan Novak. Dan Novak adapted this story for VOA Learning English based on reporting by The Associated Press. _________________________________________________ Words in This Story abate v. to become weaker district n. an area established by a government for official government business symptom n. a change in the body or mind which indicates that a disease is present vomit n. to have the food, liquid, etc., that is in your stomach come out through your mouth because you are sick breed v. to produce offspring by sexual reproduction pollinator n. to give pollen from another plant of the same kind so that seeds will be produced negative adj. harmful or bad The American space agency NASA says a device placed on Mars to produce oxygen has performed better than expected in a series of experiments. The system is called MOXIE. It is designed to change, or convert, carbon dioxide captured from the Mars atmosphere into oxygen. The instrument works through a process called electrolysis. This process uses extreme heat to separate oxygen atoms from molecules of carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide makes up about 95 percent of the Martian atmosphere, NASA reports. The rest is mostly molecular nitrogen and argon. Molecular oxygen makes up just 0.16 percent of the Martian atmosphere. But future exploration of Mars and possibly other planets by humans will require a large supply of oxygen. NASA has said the chemical element will be necessary for astronauts to breathe and to produce rocket fuel for launches carried out from the Martian surface. NASA financed the MOXIE demonstration experiment. A team from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) created the device. The MOXIE instrument was carried to Mars aboard NASAs Perseverance explorer, or rover. Perseverance arrived on the Red Planet in February 2021. The device is a box-shaped instrument attached to the rover. NASA reported its first results with the MOXIE system in April 2021. At the time, the space agency reported the device had successfully converted carbon dioxide from the Martian atmosphere into oxygen. In the first experiment, MOXIE produced 5.4 grams of oxygen in one hour. NASA then carried out a series of additional experiments to test the effectiveness of the system. In a statement issued earlier this month, leaders of the demonstration project said MOXIE had completed its 16th and final experiment. They noted the devices impressive performance had proven it was possible to capture oxygen from the Martian atmosphere. Such oxygen could help supply breathable air or rocket propellant to future astronauts, the statement said. NASA said that MOXIE had produced a total of 122 grams of oxygen since Perseverance landed on Mars. This amount is about what a small dog would breathe in 10 hours. While the amount of oxygen is small, it represented the first experimental capture of a natural resource from the environment of another planet. When working at its highest level of effectiveness, the instrument was able to produce 12 grams of oxygen in one hour. NASA says this is twice as much as its engineers first estimated the system could produce. The MOXIE team has also been measuring the purity of the oxygen the device produces. Overall, it has reported the instrument produced oxygen that was at least 98 percent pure. The latest experiments with MOXIE on Mars are designed to help NASA build a much larger version of the system. A full-sized device could be deployed on Mars in the future. A NASA explanation of the instrument states: The goal of a Big MOXIE would be to make and store all the oxygen that the astronaut and their rocket would need for their mission before they even launch. Such a system would need to make between 2,000 to 3,000 grams of oxygen per hour, the space agency noted. Trudy Kortes is the director of technology demonstrations at NASA Headquarters in Washington D.C. She said the agency was pleased to be able to support such a technology. By proving this technology in real-world conditions, weve come one step closer to a future in which astronauts live off the land on the Red Planet, Kortes said. MITs Michael Hecht leads the MOXIE development operation. He said in a statement the teams work will next center on working on the larger version of MOXIE. In addition, scientists will need to create equipment to liquefy and store the produced oxygen. Im Bryan Lynn. Bryan Lynn wrote this story for VOA Learning English, based on reports from NASA and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Quiz - NASA: Oxygen-producing Device on Mars Performed Above Expectations Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz __________________________________________ Words in This Story impressive adj. making or attempting to make a marked impression propellant n. an explosive substance of fuel that causes something to move forward mission n. a flight by an aircraft or spacecraft to perform a specific task London-based Amnesty International and a rights group based in the DRC released a report on the issue on September 11. It said mining companies forcibly removed people from their homes and farmland. Many of those affected said they were not paid enough. The recent report also said people were attacked, including sexually attacked, and also had their property destroyed or damaged. Cobalt is an element needed for long-lasting batteries in things like electric vehicles and similar technologies. The DRC is believed to have more cobalt than any other country in the world. The country is also Africas top producer of copper, which is needed in the electrical industry. Criticism of the trade in cobalt, copper and other minerals in the DRC is not new. Amnesty International accused the cobalt mining industry there of using child labor in 2016. In July, the U.S. House of Representatives introduced a measure to ban imported products containing cobalt and copper mined through child labor or other abusive conditions in the DRC. Amnesty International has also reported many incidents of violence related to mining activity. In 2016, it said soldiers burned down a settlement to begin work on a cobalt and copper mine. The fire left a two-year-old girl with scars that will affect her for the rest of her life. The rights groups said they talked to 133 people during separate visits in February and September 2022. The people were in six places around Kolwezi, a city in the south of the country, and were affected by the abuses related to cobalt and copper mining. One neighborhood, home to 39,000 people, has been facing destruction because of the expansion of a copper and cobalt mine since 2015. The rights groups studied documents, photos, videos, satellite images and company communications. Amnesty International said companies are not doing enough to deal with human rights concerns. Chemaf is a cobalt and copper mining company based in Dubai that operates in the DRC. Following protests in 2019, the company paid $1.5 million to former residents through local officials. People received between $50 and $300. But the report said that was not enough. None of the former residents were able to secure good housing. The rights groups said the world is demanding more green technologies that are not linked to climate change. However, the mining of minerals that are needed for these green technologies are causing social and environmental harm. The group said removing carbon from the world economy must not lead to further human rights violations. Im Andrew Smith. Taiwo Adebayo reported this story for the Associated Press. Gena Bennett adapted it for VOA Learning English. _________________________________________________ Words in This Story scarsn. damaged skin As investigations continue into Thursdays perchloric acid explosion and fire at Bailey Yard, North Plattes fire chief says hes generally pleased with local responders performance. Dennis Thompson, confirming a follow-up statement from Union Pacific Railroad, said Friday that air monitoring throughout the five-hour fire never showed health concerns from the black and orange billowing smoke. We never saw any diminishment in oxygen content in the air, Thompson told The Telegraph. We were always seeing almost 21% (content), which is normal. We didnt detect any levels of the chemical. People in about 25 homes near U.S. Highway 30 and up to a mile beyond it were evacuated after the acid exploded about noon inside the lower of two stacked intermodal containers on a stationary railcar. The blast caused several nearby railcars to catch fire, U.P. said in a Thursday afternoon statement. With reports of heavy toxic smoke coming from Bailey, North Platte-area first responders quickly shut down U.S. Highway 30 between Front and Splinter roads, directly north of the explosion site in Baileys west hump. U.S. 30 traffic was also being stopped at Buffalo Bill Avenue and Hoover Road, the latter just east of the former Taft School north of the yard. Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park and State Recreation Area closed, as did the Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center just south of the yard. Authorities were poised for evacuations south of the tower if weather conditions changed. But the fire was declared out and the evacuations were lifted about 5:15 p.m. Thursday. Weather conditions couldnt have been more perfect for us to prevent chemical clouds, Thompson said. The particles were going up and into the atmosphere. U.P. spokeswoman Robynn Tysver said Friday that the railroad was cooperating with state and federal regulators as they determine what caused the explosion in the yard. Perchloric acid is a hazardous material used in explosives, as well as some food, drug and biocidal products, Tysver said U.P.s Friday statement. No Union Pacific personnel were injured, and our employees have been safely evacuated, she said about two hours after Thursdays blast. She added that the explosion did not result from a derailment, as the car had been stationary in the yard for a couple hours. Injuries resulting from exposure to perchloric acid are not common, said Dr. Ron Kirschner, a physician toxicologist at the Nebraska Poison Center. But when injuries do occur, they can be severe. Kirschner said people can be chemically burned if their skin comes into contact with the acid. Depending on where and how large the burn is, it could affect their ability to take care of themselves. Fumes from the acid can also damage the airways and lungs and result in symptoms such as difficulty with breathing. The severity of injury from fumes depends on a persons length and proximity to the acid. In both instances of exposure, a person could be hospitalized. Its a very strong acid, Kirschner said. Its something that requires a lot of care in transporting. Thompson praised the cooperation of railroad employees as well as the firefighting and law enforcement agencies who have regularly trained on what to do in case of a hazardous materials fire, leak or spill at Bailey. Union Pacific, Thompson added, is great at making sure we have the resources we need and the help we need to deal with these things. Other agencies involved in Thursdays response were North Platte police, the Lincoln County Sheriffs Office, the Nebraska State Patrol, Region 51 Emergency Management, the State Fire Marshals Office, The Salvation Army and the American Red Cross. Evacuees were directed to shelters at North Plattes Salvation Army headquarters and Hersheys American Legion Post 279. It sounds like they had a few people show up there, Thompson said. First responders will prepare after-action reports seeking ways to improve, he said. But we are extremely happy with the way it unfolded in terms of obtaining information, securing safety zones (and) other agencies responses. The fire chief also addressed concerns he had heard Friday that groundwater near the yard might have been contaminated from firefighting efforts. Thompson said North Platte employees of Hazmat Inc., a national firm that includes Bailey Yard among its clients, responded quickly to ensure that didnt happen. They were on scene with us and set up containment to catch any runoff from applying water to those containers, he said. That was huge for us environmentally to have that in place ahead of time. Communications among agencies and with the public generally worked well, Thompson said. But hes concerned that some residents never got the string of emergency rave alerts from North Plattes 911 center often because they hadnt signed up for them. He said people can sign up for cellphone and online notifications at smart911.com. They just have to go in, and its an easy process and you can get whatever alerts you want. Winds were blowing from the southwest at about 10 mph around the time of the blasts. Two men who live near U.S. 30, talking aboard utility-type vehicles Thursday afternoon on nearby Scouts Rest Ranch Road, agreed that they heard four explosions in all. Shortly afterward, dark smoke could be seen billowing into the sky from atop the eight-story Golden Spike Tower. Volunteer Gregg Robertson said he was talking to someone inside the tower when I just saw something and I looked and it was just a big ball of flame. And then it was just fire, fire, fire, constant for 10, 12 minutes maybe. And then the fire went down and smoke kind of increased, and then it was just sparks coming out. Robertson said he saw two smoke plumes rising from the blast site. The east plume was like black smoke. The west plume was orange smoke, something like Ive not seen from a fire, he said. Theres something was burning that I dont want no part of smelling what it was, because it was some kind of chemical over there going on. Thompson said Friday that the shipping container containing the perchloric acid collapsed after the fire had consumed all of the chemical. When the bottom container was consumed, the top one came down atop it, he said. And it had memory foam in it, so that burned for a while. This story includes reporting from Telegraph staffers Ryan Herzog, Andrew Bottrell, Joan von Kampen, Tyler Soper and Omaha World-Herald reporter Dan Crisler. Photos: 55th annual AppleJack Festival draws visitors to Nebraska City The United States and the USSR are to sign an agreement later this year to reduce the number of nuclear missiles. US President Ronald Reagan announced the news that over 1,000 weapons would be scrapped over the next few years. The superpower summit in Washington will be the first ever treaty reducing the total number of nuclear arms since their invention 50 years ago. All the warheads at the site of Englands longest-running, anti-nuclear protest at Greenham Common will go as a result of the agreement. President Reagan said the talks had been frank, constructive and notable and Soviet Foreign Minister Eduard Shevardnadze said it was time to reap the harvest after moving towards an accord for many years. The arms to be dismantled under the treaty are all short and medium-range missiles based in Europe and the Soviet Union. The inter-continental weapons which can reach thousands of miles will not be destroyed. Even though the reduction only represents a 3% total decrease in the number of nuclear warheads deployed worldwide, peace campaigners welcomed the announcement. The chairman of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament said it was the direct result of persistent pressure from the peace movement. Details of the treaty, including the crucial matter of verifying the destruction of the missiles, have yet to be worked out. But US Secretary of State George Shultz said the treaty was only the beginning of the process. This doesnt solve all the problems by a long shot But youve got to start, he said. Courtesy BBC News In context The Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) treaty was signed in December 1987 by USSR leader Mikhail Gorbachev and President Reagan. The INF agreement was followed by the first Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (Start I) in 1991, which cut the numbers of long-range nuclear weapons by roughly half. Two years later Start II agreed to scrap a further 3,000 3,500 warheads. The Treaty of Moscow in 2002, signed by Presidents George Bush and Vladimir Putin, reduced the number of weapons by a further 1,700 2,200. The defense lawyer in the new Central Library designs alleged leakage case has questioned whether the government tolerates criticism. A staff member at Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) has been sued by the government for allegedly leaking internal confidential information about the new Central Library to the public. Charges of violating confidentiality and violating legal privilege held by entities that act for public authorities were pressed against the defendant, surnamed Lou. The matter started when local media outlet All About Macau published an Article to the Editor raising questions about the design of the new Central Library. It was revealed on Mar. 8, 2021 that Dutch architecture firm Mecanoo had won the tender for the design of the new library. Later, the IC reported the matter to the local police, accusing a staff member of leaking confidential information. The court trial submitted closing statements last Friday. Defense lawyer Chan Wa Keong argued that the government does not allow constructive criticism of its work. The prosecutor commented that the article constituted vicious criticism against the government, but Chan argued that the general publics perspective should be taken into account. He said that when he was in mainland China for official visits, constructive criticism was accepted by mainland officials because they are key to serving the people well. He suggested the government reconsider the reason behind the article, because he interpreted the aim to be supporting the government move forward. Chan raised the fact that computer clocks can be adjusted, making it difficult to confirm the actual time the article was written and delivered to the media. He said the prosecutor should not accuse his client based on uncertain times. He also said that leaking the information would be detrimental to his client, an intermediately senior civil servant, and so it was unlikely that he would have done it. The prosecutor, meanwhile, said that the articles use of words copycat and fake antiques were violations against the government because they were untrue. In support of this claim, the prosecutor cited a witness as saying that the winning design did not copy any other design. The original article questioned the originality of the winning design and asked: Why is the Mecanoo design so similar to Shenzhen Longhua Art Museum and Library, and Shenzhen Futian Civic Cultural Center? Why does [the library] exude a feeling of alleged plagiarism? The subtitle of this section went: plagiarized architecture? Lawmaker and former journalist Ron Lams provided written testimony prior to the closing statement session. Lam pointed out that the information cited in the article was publicly-accessible information released by the government. Judged by his experience, he thought that the article was the result of publicized data collected and analyzed by a person with architecture or design knowledge or background. In consideration of the many doubts underlying the case, the lawyer appealed to the court to find his client not guilty, based on the principle of in dubio pro reo (when in doubt, rule for the accused). The Group of 77 and China Summit, to be held in Havana, Cuba, on Friday and Saturday, is significant for several reasons. First, it will help deepen South-South cooperation. Politically, the world faces a complex web of challenges, including the sole global superpowers desperation to maintain its hegemony, rising anti-globalization sentiments in some parts of the world, and imbalanced global development. The international community is once again being tested, although the choice between unity and division, cooperation and confrontation, and peace and conflict is obvious. By strengthening their cooperation and unity, China and other developing countries will be able to not only play a major role in preventing wars and conflicts, and promoting peace and development, but also contribute to safeguarding the core status of the United Nations, and making global governance mechanisms more effective. Economically, the contributions (both actual and potential) of developing countries and emerging market economies to the world economy are immense and increasing by the year. However, this does not automatically translate into developing countries enjoying more rights and greater say in international institutions and the global governance system. Therefore, they need to further boost their strength and status by deepening South-South cooperation and striving for more rights and benefits through North-South dialogue. Developing countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America face the arduous task of not only narrowing the development gap but also breaking away from the traditional development paths to achieve sustainable development while protecting resources and the environment. Close cooperation in key fields between the Global South and Global North will not only help them realize mutual economic and social benefit, but also promote the implementation of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and help build a community with a shared future for mankind. In this sense, the Havana summit represents the desire of all participants to seek new opportunities and create new driving forces for economic development. Second, the summit is a landmark diplomatic event for Cuba and manifests the positive progress in China-Cuba and China-Latin America relations. Cuba has long been subjected to economic sanctions and a comprehensive blockade by the United States. In January 2023, Cuba assumed the rotating presidency of the G77 and became the host of the G77 and China annual summit. For Cuba, the value of this summit is very high, whether it is the need to expand its international cooperation space, improve its development and security environment, or strengthen its special friendly relations with China. Cooperation between China and Latin America will further enhance the level of political mutual trust and strengthen bilateral and multilateral diplomacy. The latest example is a resolution passed by the Central American Parliament on Aug 21, accepting Beijing as a permanent observer party and annulling the so-called permanent observer status of Taipei. And third, it is a microcosm of the acceleration and upgrading of Chinas diplomacy in the new era. During his recent meeting with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, President Xi Jinping emphasized that the G77 and China is an important platform for cooperation among developing countries, and China attaches great importance to Cubas hosting of the G77+China Summit in Havana. Developing country diplomacy is a key part of Chinas overall diplomacy. But the US has intensified efforts to divide the Global South and disrupt Chinas cooperation with other developing countries. Although such efforts to contain China are doomed to failure, they have prompted China to further weave a solid web of friendly relations and cooperation with other developing countries. Apart from creating more China-plus mechanisms, China will also move ahead with its global cooperation plan under the Belt and Road Initiative framework, injecting new impetus into common development and prosperity, and making greater contributions to the establishment of new South-South cooperation and North-South cooperation mechanisms, as well as reducing the deficits in global governance, trust, peace and development. The G77 and China Summit in Havana will serve as a testament to this. Wu Baiyi,* China Daily [Abridged] *The author is senior research fellow at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. Hundreds of people staged an anti-government rally this weekend in the Malaysian capital, accusing Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of helping his key ally escape prosecution in exchange for political support. Prosecutors unexpectedly dropped 47 corruption charges against Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi on Sept. 4, late in the process of his trail. The court approved the application for dismissal but refused to grant Zahid a full acquittal, which means he can be recharged. Speakers addressing the crowd Saturday in Kuala Lumpur accused Anwars government of interfering with the case to let Zahid off the hook in return for political support. Some protesters in the opposition-backed rally wore white shirts emblazoned with the words Fight Corruption. They marched in the city center chanting, Charge Zahid, Reform is dead and Down with Anwar. Protester Muhamed Yahya said there was a hidden hand at work that led to the charges against Zahid being dropped. They used the back door, he said. Prosecutors said Zahids case was temporarily halted because further investigation was needed. Anwar has said it was former Attorney General Idrus Haruns decision just before he retired and denied interfering in the case. The dropped charges have led to renewed calls for reforms that would separate the attorney generals roles as the governments legal adviser and its public prosecutor. Zahid heads the United Malays National Organization party, and his support has been pivotal in helping Anwar form a unity government after Novembers general election led to a hung Parliament. The dismissal of charges sparked new criticism, particularly in light of the Anwar governments anti-corruption stance. A lot of promises were not fulfilled by Anwars government, said protester Zolazrai Zolkapli. Their promises were all lies. When we have been cheated by their propaganda and cheated by their manifesto, we come here to show our support for the rally, he said. Police had declared the gathering unlawful, as no permission was granted to hold it, but they didnt stop the protest, which ended peacefully after several hours. Zahid was detained on graft charges in 2018 after UMNO lost power, facing 12 counts of criminal breach of trust, 27 counts of money laundering and eight counts of bribery involving more than 31 million ringgit ($6.7 million) from his family foundation. Prosecutors alleged that money intended for charity was misappropriated for his personal use, including to shop and pay off his credit cards. More than 110 witnesses have testified in his case. MDT/AP North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspected Russias nuclear-capable bombers, hypersonic missiles and an advanced warship from its Pacific fleet this weekend as he continued a trip in Russias Far East that has sparked Western concerns about an arms alliance that could fuel President Vladimir Putins war on Ukraine. After arriving in the city of Artyom by train, Kim traveled to an airport just outside the port city of Vladivostok where Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and other senior military officials gave him an up-close look at Russias strategic bombers and other warplanes. All the Russian warplanes shown to Kim were among the types that have seen active use in the war in Ukraine, including the Tu-160, Tu-95 and Tu-22 bombers that have regularly launched cruise missiles. Shoigu and Lt. Gen. Sergei Kobylash, the commander of the Russian long-range bomber force, explained to Kim that the Tu-160 had recently received new cruise missiles with a range of more than 6,500 kilometers (over 4,040 miles). Pointing at the weapons bay, Shoigu said that each bomber carries 12 missiles. Russian officials have previously said that the new missile was under development, and the latest comments confirmed its deployment for the first time. Shoigu, who had met Kim during a rare visit to North Korea in July, also showed Kim another of Russias latest missiles, the hypersonic Kinzhal, carried by the MiG-31 fighter jet, that saw its first combat during the war in Ukraine, according to Russias Defense Ministry. Kim and Shoigu later traveled to Vladivostok, where they inspected the Admiral Shaposhnikov frigate. Russias navy commander, Adm. Nikolai Yevmenov, briefed Kim on the ships capabilities and weapons, which include long-range Kalibr cruise missiles that Russian warships have regularly fired at targets in Ukraine. Kims visits to military and technology sites this week possibly hint at what he wants from Russia, perhaps in exchange for supplying munitions to refill Putins declining reserves as his invasion of Ukraine becomes a drawn-out war of attrition. Kims trip to Russia, which included more than four hours of talks with Putin on Wednesday, comes amid momentum in military cooperation between the countries in which North Korea could potentially seek Russian technologies to advance Kims nuclear, missile and other military programs in exchange for providing Russia with badly needed munitions. Videos released by Russias Defense Ministry showed Shoigu greeting Kim at the airport along with honor guards lined up near a red carpet. Kim was seen peering at the Kinzhal missile, gesturing and asking questions about the warplanes capabilities as he discussed technical details with Shoigu and other military officials through translators. Kim was also seen talking to Shoigu and Yevmenov about a purported nuclear attack submarine the North unveiled last week as they stepped out of the Shaposhnikov frigate. Yesterday [Macau time], Kim visited a local theater to watch Pyotr Tchaikovskys Sleeping Beauty ballet performance, Russias ambassador to Pyongyang, Alexander Matsegora, was quoted as saying by the Russian RIA Novosti state news agency. The agency said Kim left after the first act. The visit follows Kims tour on Friday of a factory producing advanced Russian warplanes. Kim in recent months has emphasized the need to strengthen his navy to counter the advanced naval assets of the United States, which has been expanding its combined military exercises with South Korea to counter the Norths growing threat. Analysts say Kims focus on naval strength could be driven by ambitions to obtain sophisticated technologies for ballistic missile submarines and nuclear-propelled submarines as well as to initiate joint naval exercises between Russia and North Korea. After meeting Putin at Russias main spaceport, a location that pointed to Kims desire for Russian assistance in his efforts to acquire space-based reconnaissance assets and missile technologies, North Koreas leader reappeared Friday in the far eastern city of Komsomolsk-on-Amur for a visit to a plant producing Russias Su-57 fighter jets. Experts have said potential military cooperation between the countries could include efforts to modernize North Koreas outdated air force, which relies on warplanes sent from the Soviet Union in the 1980s. Kims trip to Russia, his first since April 2019 when he met Putin in Vladivostok, came days after he attended a ceremony at a North Korean military shipyard where the country unveiled the alleged nuclear attack submarine. State media claimed it is capable of launching tactical nuclear weapons from underwater. But South Koreas military expressed doubt about the operational capabilities of the sub, which was the result of reshaping an existing submarine to install missile launch tubes. Kim has also announced goals to acquire nuclear-propelled submarines, which can quietly travel long distances and approach enemy shores to deliver strikes, a key asset in his efforts to build a viable nuclear arsenal that could threaten the United States. Analysts say such capacities would be unfeasible for the North without external assistance. Putin on Friday reiterated that Russia would abide by U.N. sanctions, some of which ban North Korea from exporting or importing any weapons. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov separately said that no agreements on bilateral military cooperation were signed after the Putin-Kim meeting Wednesday. Experts say North Korea and Russia arent likely to publicize any deals on weapons to avoid stronger international criticism. Some South Korean experts say that Kim could also pursue a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. In another sign of the Norths post-pandemic opening, KCNA said that a team of North Korean athletes departed from Pyongyang to participate in the Asian Games starting next week in Hangzhou, China. South Koreas government says around 190 North Korean athletes are registered for the event. Since last year, the U.S. has accused North Korea of providing ammunition, artillery shells and rockets to Russia, many of them likely copies of Soviet-era munitions. South Korean officials said North Korean weapons provided to Russia have already been used in Ukraine. KIM TONG-HYUNG & HYUNG-JIN KIM, SEOUL, MDT/AP Malaysia has held its National Day Reception in the SAR for the first time to show that Macau has a significant role to play between Malaysia and the Greater Bay Area. Hosted by the Malaysian Consulate in Hong Kong and Macau, and co-organized by the Macao Malaysian Chamber of Commerce, the event commemorates the 60th Anniversary of Malaysia Day. Speaking at the reception, deputy minister of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia, Datuk Mohomad Alamin, said that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership between Malaysia and China. He called for further cooperation, particularly in the economic and tourism sector. Echoing similar sentiments, Kelvin Tan, deputy standing chairperson of the Macao ASEAN International Chamber of Commerce, said that Malaysia serves as a great gateway to the ASEAN countries, adding that there are people in Macau investing in properties and receiving a 10-year visa. Any trade that promotes trilateral partnership between Lusophone countries, Malaysia and Macau into GBA [will be good for business]. We are also looking into conventions, and exhibitions, said Tan. In fact, we are doing quite a few flights with AirAsia. We are [also] planning a possible Penang or Johor Bahru direct flights to Malaysia, he added. Questioned by the Times on when these would take effect, the chairman said that it could come very soon if it works with travel agencies in both regions. According to him, they would work with gaming operators to aggressively promote the flights as it is also a cheaper route to Singapore. Johor Bahru is a 30-minute ferry ride from the island. The local government has been publicizing the fact that, in the coming years, the GBA and the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin will create further opportunities for Macau and the international companies that partner with Macaus territory. However, Tan believes that Macau needs more air connections, particularly to the ASEAN countries. I think our place as a tourism and shopping d will be enhanced if we have better connections with ASEAN, said Tan. Bilateral economic relations promising Speaking at the reception, Secretary for Economy and Finance, Lei Wai Nong recalled that in recent years, Macau and Malaysia have further reinforced cooperation in tourism, trade, conventions, and exhibitions. We are close business and trading partners. [] I would like to invite more Malaysian companies to join us in Macau, said Lei. The outlook for bilateral economic relations is promising, promoting friendly cooperation between Macau and Malaysia, he added. * Gateway to ASEAN Chamber believes Macau needs more air connections, particularly to ASEAN countries, to elevate trade opportunities * Yao Mings foundation stages match in Macau for the first time * IPIM | Only 21 out of 536 residency permits approved in 1H * The 700-plus room Andaz Macau, operated by Hyatt, opened as an integral part of the Galaxy International Convention Centre * GP Museum to feature paintings from Joao Saldanhas GP Legends collection * Police said they have detained some staff at China Evergrande Groups wealth management unit in the latest trouble for the developer * Rugby WC DOWNLOAD PDF Monday, September 18, 2023 edition no. 4332 China is sending Vice President Han Zheng to the U.N. General Assemblys annual high-level debate, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said last week, suggesting that the countrys most senior diplomat, Wang Yi, will not attend. This years gathering of world leaders at United Nations headquarters in New York starts today with a sustainability summit. The weeklong general debate gets underway on Tuesday. Chinese President Xi Jinping has not attended the U.N. session in person for several years. He participated via video conference during the first two years of the coronavirus pandemic. Wang Yi attended last year and generally represented China at the U.N. Wang is the head of the foreign affairs committee of Chinas Communist Party. He was not mentioned in the ministrys announcement. Han is a past member of the Politburo Standing Committee, an elite group of leaders within the party. He retired from that position but assumed the position of vice president in March. Hans continued political career parallels the one of Wang Qishan, who played an influential role in the past several years in managing the tense U.S.-China relationship. Wang led the Communist Partys disciplinary body and was a member of the Politburo Standing Committee. He retired at the end of 2017 but was brought back to serve as vice president in 2018. The absence of Beijings top leader at the General Assembly may not be as conspicuous as Xi not attending the Group of 20 summit that took place in India earlier this month. The British government announced in August that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak would not attend the upcoming U.N. session. French President Emmanuel Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin also do not plan to be there. MDT/AP As surely as temperatures rise during the summer, climate alarmists serve up more stories of life-threatening heat domes, apocalyptic fires and biblical floods all blamed squarely on global warming. Yet the data is often cherry-picked. Heat waves are clearly made worse by global warming. But saturated media coverage of high temperatures in summer fails to tell the bigger story: Temperature-driven deaths are overwhelmingly caused by cold. Globally, a recent Lancet study found 4.5 million cold deaths, nine times more than global heat deaths. The study also finds that temperatures increased half a degree Celsius in the first two decades of this century, causing an additional 116,000 heat deaths annually. But warmer temperatures now also avoid 283,000 cold deaths annually. Reporting only on the former leaves us badly informed. Across the world, governments have promised to achieve "net zero" carbon emissions at a cost beyond $5.6 trillion annually. Scared populations will, of course, be more likely to clamor for the perceived safety of such policies. But these policies help tackle heat and cold deaths poorly. Even if all the world's ambitious carbon-cutting promises were magically enacted, these policies would only slow future warming. Stronger heat waves would still kill more people, just slightly fewer than they would have. A sensible response would focus first on resilience, meaning more air conditioning and cooler cities through greenery and water features. After 2003's heat waves, France required air conditioning in nursing homes, reducing heat deaths tenfold despite higher temperatures. Avoiding both cold and heat deaths requires affordable energy access. In the United States, cheaper gas from fracking allowed millions with low budgets to keep warm, saving thousands of lives. Along with temperature spikes, alarming images of forest fires share the front pages this summer. You'd quickly get the sense that the planet is on fire. But since NASA satellites started accurately recording fires across the planet's entire surface two decades ago, the amount of land area burned annually has fallen. Fires have burned much more in the Americas this year than over the past decade. But fires have burned much less in Africa and Europe compared to the past decade. While Greece has burned much more, most of Europe has burned much less. The fire in Hawaii is deeply tragic. Yet blaming it on climate change is lazy and unhelpful. While the Associated Press reported that Maui County was tinderbox dry, it has been drier in past years. Cutting carbon emissions is one of the least effective ways to help prevent future fires. Much faster, more effective and cheaper solutions include controlled fires to burn away vegetation, improving zoning and better forest management. Floods are similarly routinely ascribed to global warming. But a report for the United Nation's climate panel indicates "low confidence in general statements to attribute changes in flood events to anthropogenic climate change." The experts emphasize that neither river nor coastal floods are statistically detectable from the background noise of natural climate variability. U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres's claim that "an era of global boiling has arrived" is entering ridiculous territory. The reality is more prosaic. Global warming is a real problem, but not an end-of-the world catastrophe that justifies the costliest policies. The commonsense response would be recognizing that both climate change and carbon cutting policies incur costs. We should carefully negotiate a middle path, aiming for effective approaches that do the most to reduce damages at a reasonable cost. To do better on climate, we must resist the misleading, alarmist climate narrative. Panic is a terrible adviser. Bjorn Lomborg is the president of the Copenhagen Consensus and a visiting fellow at Stanford University's Hoover Institution. He wrote this for InsideSources.com. WATCH NOW: Summer is expanding, says Sean Sublette of the Lee Weather Team. Point your cellphone camera at the QR code and tap the link. Editor's note: This is the latest in an occasional series of SOS columns highlighting companies that prove themselves unresponsive, unhelpful or uninterested in explaining themselves. Ninety-two dollars is the equivalent of about 30 large coffees at MOKA, a popular La Crosse-based coffee chain with seven stores in Madison and another 11 spread out around Wisconsin, Minnesota and Illinois. It's also the amount the privately held company has steadfastly refused to pay former employee Linnea Sorensen despite a letter from the state Department of Workforce Development threatening litigation if it didn't. The 20-year-old college student emailed SOS in July to say that she'd worked Christmas Day last year at the chain's Mineral Point Road location in Madison with the understanding that she would be paid extra or $25 an hour, nearly twice her usual rate of $13.50. That's what the company had paid her for working the Christmas before, according to a pay stub she showed SOS. Nevertheless, her first paycheck after Christmas 2022 showed only her regular rate, and when she sought to find out why, she got a series of excuses from her bosses, according to screenshots of text messages between them and Sorensen. The bosses said the new no-holiday-pay policy had been shared with employees. Sorensen said it had not. "I truly apologize for any miscommunication in regards to Christmas Day," said MOKA Vice President of Operations Brooke Klug. "I am so sorry if you were not informed by your manager and I will be following up with Beth as well." Beth is Beth Cveykus, also a MOKA manager, Sorensen said. Sorensen told SOS she knew $92 "might not seem like much, but I have been working for years and now that I'm in college, every penny counts." So, on Jan. 11, she took her case to the state DWD's Equal Rights Division. It included not only information about her pay but written statements from three MOKA employees backing up her side of the story, and on June 16, DWD sent a letter to MOKA owner Joan Wilson with its decision. Send us an SOS since september 2007, SOS has helped save Wisconsin state Journal readers more than $229,233.65 and solved hundreds of problems. you can send an SOS using any of these methods: Phone: 608-252-6198 Mail: SOS, Wisconsin state Journal, P.O. box 8058, Madison, Wi 53708 It had been "reasonable" for Sorensen to believe she was to have received holiday pay, Equal Rights Officer Emily Jane Laak-Loeding wrote, MOKA had been less than cooperative with the agency's investigation, and now the company had until June 26 to send DWD a check for $92, payable to Sorensen. If it didn't, "I may prepare the case file on this matter for litigation," Laak-Loeding warned, and "any referral to court will include a request for the maximum penalty for the late payment of wages." MOKA didn't pay, and when SOS asked why, it got much the same obtuse response the company provided DWD. On July 27, a woman from MOKA's human resources department, who declined to share her name, reiterated the no-holiday-pay policy, said there were other benefits to working holidays like extra tips and said working holidays was optional for employees. In similarly unsigned emails from "MOKA HQ" on July 27 and Aug. 7, the company noted there is no state law requiring holiday pay and that employees who worked Christmas Day 2022 were given MOKA sweatshirts in appreciation. The sweatshirts, MOKA claimed, were worth $50. But what about DWD's threat to sue? Toothless, basically. DWD wrote Sorenson on July 6 to say that due to "budgetary constraints the District Attorney has informed the Division that their office will only be able to process a limited number of wage claims." In fact, Dane County District Attorney Ismael Ozanne told SOS that "we haven't addressed wage claims for some time now" and that DWD could turn to another state agency, the Department of Justice, to pursue "forfeitures" like the one owed Sorensen. After initially proposing to provide SOS with some information about wage claims cases "on background," DOJ spokesperson Gillian Drummond punted to DWD. DWD, in turn, told SOS that the agency is successful at getting employers to pay in about 70% of wage claim cases, but that it "cannot always establish evidence of criminal intent on an unpaid wage claim. "When prosecutors request referrals be limited to those with evidence of criminal intent or reach a certain dollar amount, civil enforcement through small claims court provides a way to seek recovery of unpaid wages plus up to a 100% wage penalty," communications director John Dipko said. Sorensen knows that she could pursue her claim in small claims court, and that DWD's finding in her favor could be helpful in that venue. But she wishes it had been clearer to her from the start that state government would in the end be unwilling or unable to pursue a case as meritorious as hers. "It's just unfortunate that individuals seem to be the ones always feeling the negative impacts rather than corporations," she said. It's not time to panic about climate change. It's past time. Usually, panic is the wrong response to almost every situation. It implies irrational overreaction to threats, often producing unproductive or harmful handling of them. Yet the existential threat that climate change poses to life on Earth requires at least an element of panic as a catalyst to a meaningful, sustained response. Worry and concern haven't worked. Globally, June of this year was the hottest June on record, going back almost two centuries when the United States and Britain first began tracking atmospheric temperatures. On July 3, the hottest daily mean global temperature ever was reached at 62.69 degrees Fahrenheit. The next day set another record. So did the next and the next. From July 3 through July 29, the Earth experienced 29 consecutive hottest days in any month, in any year, ever. The frightening climate numbers are difficult to ignore. Whether or not panic is warranted, our anxiety is rising, almost in concert with the inexorable increase in global temperatures. Young people feel the most urgency about climate change, which makes sense. They have the longest time left to live on a planet enduring uncontrollable wildfires, unbearable heat waves, glacial melting and the warming of both the deepest seas and the blankets of air above them. Young people face stronger hurricanes unleashed by warmer oceans and more destruction of the life-saving trees that combat global warming by removing carbon dioxide from the air and releasing oxygen into the atmosphere. China and India protest that they are being asked to burn less fossil fuel and release fewer greenhouse gases just as they become economic powerhouses. The United States, Japan, Germany and other industrialized nations did not have to do that in earlier decades when they were rapidly developing. China and India are right: The evolving requirements of responsible global stewardship are unfair. Their economies happen to be booming in a more perilousera, one in which the very future of life on Earth hangs in the balance. Such inequity is no excuse for inaction on their part. International resolve is growing against the ravages of climate change. The Paris Agreement, an international treaty adopted in 2015, has been signed by 193 countries plus the European Union, pledging to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and give developing nations money to fight global warming. The historic accord aims to limit the global temperature increase this century to 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) while pursuing eff orts to hold it to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit). Even those relatively modest temperature hikes would cause more destructive climate events. Disgracefully, former President Donald Trump pulled the United States from the Paris Agreement. His successor, President Joe Biden, restored U.S. membership on his first day in office. More ambitiously, the European Union has joined China and 69 other countries that combined emit three-quarters of all greenhouse gases in pledging to reach zero net emissions by 2050. More than 1,000 cities worldwide, including Los Angeles and Houston, are part of the same initiative. Not surprisingly, even such a dangerous threat as climate change has been politicized. Conservative commentators blame environmentalists' longstanding opposition to nuclear power for contributing to climate change. Nuclear power production does not emit greenhouse gases, but it entails other risks involving the storage of spent fuel rods and the cataclysmic, if rare, danger of nuclear meltdown. France has gone against the grain of most other industrialized countries in obtaining more than two-thirds of its energy from nuclear power, compared with just one-fifth in the United States. While we've picked up the pace in belatedly mitigating climate change, it's still far from enough. If we want to save our grandchildren and their grandchildren from even worse natural catastrophes, we will have to do far more. MISSISSIPPI RIVER | PRESERVING RESOURCES ST. LOUIS Community leaders along the Mississippi River worried that dry southwestern states will someday try to take the river's water took their first step toward blocking such a diversion last week. Mayors from cities along the river voted unanimously to support a new compact among the river's 10 states at last week's annual meeting of the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative, according to its executive director Colin Wellenkamp. Supporters of a compact hope it will strengthen the region's collective power around shared goals such as stopping water from leaving the corridor. "It is the most important working river on earth," Wellenkamp said. "It's a matter of national security that the Mississippi River corridor remain intact, remain sustainable, and remain ecologically and hydrologically healthy." The Southwest has long struggled to find enough water for its growing population in a region prone to drought that climate change is making worse. Transporting water from the Mississippi River basin, which drains roughly 40% of the continental United States, has always been a long shot that many say isn't practical or remotely cost-effective. But Wellenkamp worries that conversation around the idea hasn't stopped. A formal compact is still far off . The mayors' support is just the first step in a lengthy, politically fraught process that would require buy-in from all 10 states along the river and federal approval, experts said. Those states range from left-leaning states such as Minnesota, where the river begins, to thoroughly conservative states such as Louisiana, where it empties into the Gulf of Mexico. The others are Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas and Mississippi. Proponents say a compact would protect the river's water levels and ecology, make it easier to coordinate when fl oods or other disasters strike and provide a way to resolve confl icts among the river states. Last week's vote asks the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative to pursue a new river compact, according to a draft copy of the motion. "This is not going to be easy and it's not going to happen overnight," said Wellenkamp. "But, you know, every journey begins with a first step and a cash advance, I like to say." Great Lakes example Fear of water export has ignited political action before. Plans by a Canadian company in the 1990s to fill up tankers with Great Lakes water and ship it to Asia "was probably the tipping point" for establishing the Great Lakes Compact that went into effect in 2008. It strengthened cooperation among Great Lakes states that work with two Canadian provinces to manage water from the lakes effectively, monitor its use and prevent it from leaving the basin. "The Great Lakes are better protected today than they ever have been before," said David Strifling, director of Marquette Law School's Water Law and Policy Initiative. But Strifling said it was difficult to get an agreement together decades ago and it would be even harder to do so now "just due to the increased level of political polarization that exists." Sustainability Wellenkamp said a Mississippi River compact, besides blocking diversions, would ensure that nearby water users also act in a sustainable way. The river's water levels can be precarious. Last fall, they fell so low that they disrupted ship and barge traffic that moved soybeans, corn and other goods downriver for export. Much of the river is once again facing drought. People realize that the river "is not some stable resource," said Melissa Scanlan, director for the Center for Water Policy at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. "People are aware of how those low levels on the Mississippi River affect commerce and the communities," she said. There are protections against some water diversions now. If one of the five states on the upper portion of the river wants to move large amounts of water out of the basin, it must notify and consult with the other four states first. The Upper Mississippi River Basin Association has existed for decades to foster cooperative management of the river. Currently, there's an effort to quantify water use among the upper basin states and understand how that use affects the river, officials said. Pipeline 'unworkable' John Fleck, a water expert at the Utton Center at the University of New Mexico School of Law, said he is rooting for a Mississippi River compact so that what he calls the unworkable idea of a water pipeline to the west will die. "This is a waste of our time because (diversion) is magical thinking and it will never happen," he said. Jennifer Gimbel, senior water policy scholar at Colorado State University, said the obstacles to a pipeline are high. It would need approval from Congress and from legislatures in each state it passes through, payments for landowners and condemnation procedures for those who didn't want the pipeline through their properties, and expensive permitting. Then there is the engineering nightmare and huge costs of moving huge amounts of water west. "It becomes pretty complicated real fast," Gimbel said. The talk of diverting water to the Southwest will hopefully "light a fire under some states" to approve a Mississippi River compact, said Olivia Dorothy, director of river restoration with the conservation group American Rivers. Diverting water can harm the river's ecology, depriving species of the water they rely on. It could also slow the movement of sediment that's vital to the health of Louisiana and the Gulf of Mexico, among many other problems, she said. Dorothy said a compact would be a good way to say "this is our water." "If you want the Mississippi River water, you can move here," she said. 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. A former Sun Prairie school resource officer was charged Monday with sexually assaulting a Phoenix Prairie Academy student and exposing himself to another child he was mentoring in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. Lamont L. Crockett, 34, brought the Phoenix Prairie student to his house and gave him alcohol before sexually assaulting the youth multiple times, according to a criminal complaint filed Monday. Phoenix Prairie Academy is an alternative school program within the Sun Prairie School District. The at-risk youth had sought mentorship from Crockett, who started work as a Sun Prairie police officer in 2015, and from 2018 to 2020 was a school resource officer, the complaint states. Another 16-year-old told Madison police investigators that Crockett exposed himself during outings with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. During those trips, the complaint states, Crockett made sexual jokes and showed the victim and another juvenile pornographic videos. At an initial appearance in court Monday, Crockett was ordered to not have any contact with the victims or their families and to not have unsupervised contact with minors. Crockett was released on a signature bond. Prosecutors did not file charges against Crockett for about a month after his arrest on Aug. 9, citing an ongoing investigation of the allegations against him but had released him on Aug. 11 to await charges. Crockett and attorney Joshua Hargrove declined to comment after the hearing. In the complaint, prosecutors note that Sun Prairie police had investigated a complaint against Crockett and removed him from his post as a school resource officer in December 2020. He continued to work as a patrol officer with the department until joining the state Department of Justice as a Medicaid fraud investigator in 2021. DOJ has said Crockett is on administrative leave since his arrest. DOJ did not immediately respond to an email Monday asking about Crocketts employment status. According to the complaint: The former Phoenix Prairie student, now in his early 20s, contacted law enforcement in June to report that Crockett had begun assaulting him after first posing as a mentor to the troubled teen. The victim told police that he was taking drugs, doing bad things and losing himself when this cop who is his mentor noticed him at school. The assaults happened between three to four times at Crocketts residence, the victim told investigators. When questioned by police after his arrest, Crockett at first admitted to taking the student to his home and the movies. Questioned further, Crockett eventually said he had performed sex acts on the student but maintained the youth had graduated from high school by that time. The day after questioning Crockett, police obtained emails in which the victims father told Crockett he did not have permission to be with the boy and to bring him home. The emails were sent between May and June 2019, when the victim was 17 years old. After Crocketts arrest, the mother of another boy contacted police to report that Crockett had allegedly exposed himself to her son in a bathroom and tried to assault him during Big Brothers Big Sisters outings. During one of the outings, two boys told investigators, Crockett tried to sexually touch them in a vehicle. They fought Crockett by biting and slapping him, they told police. They said Crockett also showed them pornography during the outings. After he was released from jail in August, Crockett texted the juveniles mother claiming he had not hurt her son. Americans still love buying trucks, even as gas prices rise Americans still love buying trucks, even as gas prices rise Automakers sold more trucks than cars in May Gas prices drop but remain elevated Why Americans are choosing trucks The people connections are the big appeal for the crossing guards who work odd shifts in all kinds of weather. I absolutely love it, said first-year guard Victoria Flemon about crossing those heading to Hawthorne Elementary School. They give me a warm welcome every morning. Madison faced an unprecedented need for crossing guards this fall, but the city got the word out and was able to hire enough people this summer to cover the openings. Cheryl Francis was planning to work as a guard till she found something else, but now shes in her 11th year. She likes the hours, among other things. I like kids. I like helping people. I thought this would be an interesting job, said Francis, who works at two schools. You work in the morning, you work in the afternoon. Because the starting and ending hours are different, Francis is able to work at Nuestro Mundo Community School and Kennedy Elementary School. The city usually employs 60 crossing guards and typically has seven or eight vacancies at the end of the school year. This year it needed to hire 15 more by fall, said Niko Magallon, crossing guard supervisor for the East Side. That was in part due to school hours changing, preventing some guards from being able to work two schools. While the city usually has 20 applicants to consider in a given year, this summer it had 43 applications that led to 32 scheduled interviews. Of the 25 who showed up for their interviews, 19 were hired and the other six mostly withdrew on their own. The employee pool includes those who are considered on-call or substitutes. Despite the recent push, the city is still hiring till the end of October because vacancies can occur. Information can be found at cityofmadison.com/jobs. The small things Flemon said she used to volunteer at the East Madison Community Center and found she likes working with kids and helping out and making sure kids are safe. She wanted to help in the community, and she liked the idea of learning something new. Her son, Jaicion, is a fourth-grader at Hawthorne. She knows the school community fairly well and is pretty familiar with the students. Francis started at Elvehjem Elementary School, which was a location she requested when she learned of an opening there since she went to that school herself. At one time she was able to do three schools, which included Henderson Elementary School, because their school days were staggered enough. Besides raising her two boys, she volunteered during their elementary school years in McFarland. She also worked in the purchasing unit with the state Department of Transportation before becoming a dog groomer and then manager of the facility before the owner decided to close it. Francis said she loves seeing the smiles on kids faces and getting to know all of them. She said a high school graduate she had crossed as a child came to see her. Its the small things just the good mornings, how you are doing today, showing the kids youre interested every morning and every afternoon, she said. (It) makes such an impact on kids. Francis said she keeps items such as animal pencil erasers and gummy bears that she can hand out when a child is hesitant about going to school. They may be scared, and, for some, everything is new. She also has treats for the dogs she crosses with the parents who sometimes accompany their children. Because Francis is now crossing at the new location for Nuestro Mundo, she sometimes works with language barriers because some speak Spanish and she only knows a few words. She finds herself using hand signals or tuning into body language to help her communicate. Francis said the flashing lights rectangular rapid flashing beacons at the pedestrian crossing on Buckeye in front of Nuestro Mundo are a help and drivers stop most of the time for students and parents to cross. But there have been some pretty close calls and a few times she has ended up on the hood of a car, although hasnt been injured. Many times the drivers are on their phones, she said. Sometimes after people drop off kids they end up going through the crosswalk as they wave to their kids on the other side, she said. Magallon was a crossing guard before he became a supervisor in April. Previously doing nonprofit work, he also was looking for a stopgap job, but it became a passion, he said. Exciting every day Guards are guaranteed a minimum of 10 hours a week but that can increase to 17. Pay for permanent guards is $18.91 with increases over time, including cost of living adjustments. The job also comes with an annual Metro Transit pass. Alex Stewart, crossing guard supervisor for the West Side, is beginning his third year and has worked for the city for 17 years. The job appealed to him because he is always walking around his neighborhood, bikes to work daily and runs. It just really spoke to me and how I could help out and make that safer for the city, he said. Stewart said the applicants have a variety of lifestyles including being retired, working remotely and co-parenting. The split nature of the job can actually be a benefit, Magallon said. Flemon said her son sometimes rides his bike to school. Other times he rides to school with her and sits at Lexington and Fair Oaks avenues where she works before she crosses him so he can go on to school. She said people smile and wave and introduce themselves. They call her Miss Victoria. They are just welcoming me with open arms, and I am getting to know them every day, she said. School and city bus drivers along with drivers not connected to the school also wave as they go by. It is just so awesome having that feeling of being recognized, Flemon said. It just gives me the courage every day to just keep doing it. ... Its really exciting every day. BAHIA SOLANO, Colombia Every summer, thousands of tourists descend on the Colombian town of Bahia Solano to experience the thrill of watching humpback whales as they migrate from the frigid waters of the southern Pacific to Colombia's warm waters. The town lies on a remote stretch of coast covered by dense rainforests that are home to monkeys, toucans and colorful poison dart frogs. But the main attraction are the humpback whales that migrate to the area from July to October of each year. Bahia Solano, which is built along a U-shaped bay, has become one of the most famous spots in Colombia to sight humpback whales. Every summer, the town of 10,000 residents is visited by thousands of visitors who board small fishing boats that get close to the gentle giants. Whale watching helps boost the income of boat captains, hotels, tourism agencies and restaurants. The animals are also important for the local ecosystem, because they fertilize algae that smaller fish depend on. The marine mammals weigh between 20 and 40 tons, and have a length of around 50 feet, says marine biologist Esteban Duque Mesa. "For me, seeing whales is like being in a sacred place," said Duque Mesa, who has studied the animals for years. "When we are with them we perceive their immensity and also our smallness, it is a moment of absolute spiritual connection." The whales are also a source of inspiration for Medardo Machuca, an artisan from the Embera tribe, who has been making wood carvings of whales for the past two decades, and sells them to tourists. "The whales have a mystery about them, and they are beautiful," said Machuca. He acknowledged that competition from other artisans has increased recently, but added that during the whale watching season he manages to sell five or six carvings a day. Boat captain Luis Hernando Hurtado, said that whale watching has provided him with an opportunity to meet people from around the world and experience memorable moments. "Recently we had a group of whales, about eight of them, that swam beneath our boat for more than an hour" he said. "They made some beautiful approaches. We tried to keep our distance form them, which is supposed to be 100 meters, but they kept approaching us and were practically next to the boat." Photos: Humpback whales draw thousands of visitors to Colombia's Pacific coast RIYADH, Saudi Arabia The U.N.'s World Heritage Committee has placed two major historical sites in Ukraine on its list of such sites that it considers to be in danger. The iconic St. Sophia Cathedral in the capital, Kyiv, and the medieval center of the western city of Lviv, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites central to Ukraine's culture and history. The decision Friday to put those two on the body's list of sites in danger has no enforcement mechanism, but could help deter Russian attacks. Neither site has been directly targeted since Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and Lviv has largely been spared from the fighting. But Russia has unleashed waves of strikes on Kyiv and other cities, hitting residential areas and critical infrastructure with Iranian-made attack drones. The decision was made at the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee, which is being held in Saudi Arabia. The committee maintains UNESCO's World Heritage List and oversees conservation of the sites. A Ukrainian government official welcomed the move. We are very happy to have a very rich history and culture of our country, and we would like to say that it has been over thousands of years, and we try to preserve it for our future generations," Deputy Culture Minister Anastasia Bondar said. So its very much important that the whole world community will join us also. The gold-domed St. Sophia Cathedral, located in the heart of Kyiv, was built in the 11th century and designed to rival the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. The monument to Byzantine art contains the biggest collection of mosaics and frescoes from that period, and is surrounded by monastic buildings dating back to the 17th century. The Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, also known as the Monastery of the Caves, is a sprawling complex of monasteries and churches some underground that were built from the 11th to the 19th century. Some of the churches are connected by a labyrinthine complex of caves spanning more than 2,000 feet. The two sites on the Dnipro River, a 15-minute drive from one another, are a masterpiece of human creative genius," according to UNESCO. The other site is the historic center of Lviv, near the Polish border. A fifth-century castle overlooks streets and squares built between the 13th and 17th centuries. The site includes a synagogue as well as Orthodox, Armenian and Catholic religious buildings, reflecting the city's diversity. In its urban fabric and its architecture, Lviv is an outstanding example of the fusion of the architectural and artistic traditions of Eastern Europe with those of Italy and Germany, UNESCO said. The political and commercial role of Lviv attracted to it a number of ethnic groups with different cultural and religious traditions. Lviv is more than 300 miles from Kyiv and even further from any front lines, but it hasn't been spared. Russian cruise missiles slammed into an apartment building in the city in July, killing at least six people and wounding dozens. UNESCO added Ukraine's Black Sea port city of Odesa to its list of endangered heritage sites in January. Russian forces have launched multiple attacks on the city, a cultural hub known for its 19th-century architecture. Russia says that it only strikes military targets. Under the 1972 UNESCO convention, ratified by both Ukraine and Russia, signatories undertake to assist in the protection of the listed sites and are obliged to refrain from taking any deliberate measures which might damage World Heritage sites. Inclusion on the List of World Heritage in Danger is meant to rally urgent international support for conservation efforts. The list includes more than 50 sites around the world. 50 fascinating cultural UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the world 50 fascinating cultural UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the world Karnak Temple, Luxor, Egypt Machu Picchu, Peru Hierapolis, Pamukkale, Turkey Spis Castle, Slovakia Potala Palace in Tibet Petra, Jordan Ksar of Ait Benhaddou, Morocco Chefchaouen, Morocco Pompeii, Italy Meteora, Greece Piazza San Pietro in Vatican City Stonehenge, England Wat Mahathat, Ayutthaya, Thailand Mausoleum of First Qin Emperor China Teotihuacan, Mexico Bryggen, Bergen, Norway Mont Saint Michel, Normandy, France Hawa Mahal Palace, Jaipur City, India Meroe Pyramids, Kabushiya, Sudan Djenne, Mali, West Africa Amarbayasgalant Monastery, Mongolia Kathmandu Valley, Nepal Great Wall, China La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain Palmyra, Syria Kew Gardens, London England Sintra, Portugal Honghe Hani Rice Terraces Bete Giyorgis, Lalibela, Ethiopia Masada, Israel Skellig Michael, Ireland Douro Valley, Portugal Palpa Geoglyphs, Peru Bamiyan Buddhas, Afghanistan Borobudur Temple, Indonesia Hohensalzburg Castle, Salzburg, Austria Khiva, Uzbekistan Kizhi Pogost, Kizhi Island, Russia Cliff Palace, Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, USA Old City Prague, Czech Republic Cappadocia, Turkey Thingvellir, Iceland Struve Arc Triangulation Point, Hammerfest, Norway Eiffel Tower, Paris, France Taos Pueblo, New Mexico Alberobello, Puglia, Italy Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, Miyajima, Hiroshima Our Lady of the Rocks, Kotor Bay, Montenegro Venice, Italy Ha Long Bay, Vietnam JOHNSON CREEK Steve Paulet and his wife, Rachel Bauer, had a solid plan to bring music back to the Gobbler, the turkey-shaped building that has been a roadside conversation piece for over 50 years. They would buy the former supper club, a fixture along I-94 in southern Wisconsin that had been converted into a concert venue by Milwaukee trucking magnate Dan Manesis. The Madison couple signed a lease and changed the name to Galaxie Theater with plans to expand upon the vision of Manesis, who died of cancer in 2021, with a wide range of music acts and multiple acts a week. The main stage would host live recording sessions and piano recitals, and the basement would house a rehearsal space and an acoustic stage for acts to play before or after their concerts upstairs. But nothing in the business plan accounted for two blown knees. Just days before Paulet and Bauer were scheduled to close on the sale of the 9.6-acre property in August, the couple planned a date night at home in which they would try to not talk about business. Paulet stepped onto the deck of his Madison home to grill chicken, and the next thing I know the deck is in my face. He doesnt recall slipping or tripping but knew he had severely damaged one of his knees. Bauer was not yet home so Paulet used a railing to stand up. But when he tried making his way to a nearby chair he fell again, injuring his other knee. A doctor would later tell Paulet that he had torn the quadriceps from his knees. The muscles work together to straighten the knee and play an important role in activities such as walking, running, getting up from a chair and climbing stairs. So over the next half hour Im crawling through the grass, my wife comes home and Im in the ER and in great hands in like 45 minutes, Paulet said. I was almost in shock because of the way both quads ripped. It was a simple fall and then a fall again, one right after the other in like a minute. Recovery could take months. So the sale of the Gobbler was canceled, along with a series of concerts, and now the building with its rotating bar, purple chairs and shag carpeted basement walls is once again up for sale for $1.4 million. We have options Its sad. They put eight months of time into this and got everything ready, said Dave Ferron, a commercial real estate broker with Cushman & Wakefield Boerke who is listing the property. We offered to let them lease it for a while, because then they could keep their shows running, since they had a couple of shows scheduled. But Rachel didnt want to do that without Steve. So we really didnt have a choice. The lease extension, however, was only for a month. Paulet and his team of investors chose to cancel the sale, regroup and contemplate an alternative plan, which could still involve buying the theater. But for now, Paulet, 73, cannot bend his knees, which are locked into braces. He will need to learn how to walk again. Paulet and Bauer live in a historic house with a series of stairs, so hes now living temporarily in a studio apartment attached to his Groovy Wood Studio. He was initially forced to use a wheelchair, progressed to a walker and now uses crutches. Sleeping is difficult, and the only time his braces come off is at physical therapy appointments. Im treating it like its Marine boot camp. Im not overdoing it, but Im aggressively going through therapy, Paulet said. Im crutching through this. Its hell and it hurts. Im progressing fast but I cant really do anything for three to six months. Refunds will be given for shows for which tickets had already been sold. A soft opening in July drew throngs of people who saw an Elvis Presley impersonator perform. We have options. My wife and I are attracted to the building and it speaks to our passion, Paulet said Thursday. Its always an option to go buy that. Its not off the books with us at all. Its constantly being talked about. Its still a very attractive go-forward plan for us, but its not a foregone conclusion that were going to pull the trigger on it either. The property, still owned by Manesis wife, could be sold and used as is, but the land also has prime views of I-94 that could make it attractive for a redevelopment project, according to the real estate listing. Ferron said he is already receiving inquiries about the property and has showings scheduled in the coming days. But hes not ruling out Paulet and Bauer eventually buying the property and moving forward with their original plans if the property is not sold to someone else. Im hoping Steve recovers and they can come back because his vision was just awesome for what he wanted to do, Ferron said. Their enthusiasm was awesome and their investment in time was significant. Paulets vision Paulet, a Navy veteran who spent time in banking, is an audiophile, lover of music and owner of Groovy Wood Studios, a Madison company formed in 2020 that buys, restores and sells console radios and record players. Bauer has a background in commercial banking, assisting entrepreneurs as a business consultant, and worked in hospitality and hotel development planning. For five years she owned a boutique hotel in Sycamore, Illinois. When they first toured the Gobbler, Paulet began thinking about the acoustics and what kind of acts he could draw. Bauer was excited that it was basically a turnkey operation, needed little renovation and had a working point of sales system. Manesis had purchased the property for $635,000 and spent another $2.5 million to upgrade the facility into the Gobbler Theater. He added a stage, and lighting and sound systems, and built high-end dressing rooms in the basement. Shows, however, were infrequent and typically aligned with country and Christian rock fans. Paulet and Bauer worked with village officials to get approval for a full liquor license to sell more than just beer and wine and wanted to have shows multiple times a week. Their plans included indie bands and up-and-coming rock artists, classic rock bands, country crossover, jazz and stand-up comedy acts. I want to find the Beatles 1962 or the Stones 1962 before they were a hit and they were out there living in their vans and playing their hearts out, Paulet said in April of the type of bands he was seeking. Whats driving this is my passion for music. In limbo again The building in Johnson Creek will likely always be known as the Gobbler for those who grew up here or danced in the Roost, the supper clubs elevated dance floor. The facility was designed by Helmut Ajango, who designed the Fireside Theater in Fort Atkinson and was hired by Clarence Hartwig, a local turkey farmer, who ultimately spent $1 million to build and open the Gobbler in 1969 along with the Gobbler Hotel up the hill to the east. Both closed in 1992 before a trio of area businessmen bought the property in 1996 for $494,000 as an investment and put another $600,000 into the property for upgrades. A number of restaurants used the space until the early 2000s, when the motel was demolished. The supper club building remained empty for years, until Manesis bought the property in 2014. John Swisher, Johnson Creeks village president for more than eight years, said the village has not been contacted by Bauer or Paulet but hes hopeful that a use will be found for the Galaxie Theater property. Im disappointed that it didnt come together because its going to take a very special person to purchase that building and move forward with the vision that Dan Manesis had for it. And Steve definitely had that vision, Swisher said. Wed like to see it filled, but its really up to the seller to find someone to purchase the building. This story has been changed to reflect the correct spelling of Helmut Ajango. Photos: The Gobbler Theater in Johnson Creek Gobbler Theater Gobbler Theater Gobbler Theater Gobbler Theater Gobbler Theater Gobbler Theater Gobbler Theater Gobbler Theater Gobbler Theater Gobbler Theater Gobbler Theater Gobbler Theater Gobbler Theater Gobbler0028MPKe-12032015152757 Gobbler Theater ABORTION | WISCONSIN For 15 months, Wisconsin abortion providers have either halted their services entirely or relocated to do them in another state as a lawsuit seeks to clarify whether an 1849 law on the books applies to consensual abortions. Confident that the law doesn't apply to abortions a feeling bolstered by a Dane County judge ruling in July that "there is no such thing as an '1849 Abortion Ban' in Wisconsin" Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin is resuming its abortion services on Monday. Anti-abortion advocates and Republicans say the organization's resumption of services is morally wrong and legally murky at best. There's no current injunction preventing prosecutors from enforcing the 1849 law in cases of abortion, and for over a year many Wisconsinites assumed the law banned the procedure in almost every case. But for abortion providers who say they haven't been able to provide patients the care they sometimes need, the news comes as a great relief. "We've politicized abortion so much that it's made it really difficult for women to even talk about it," Dr. Kristin Lyerly said. "And we've got to be able to have honest, open conversations about our health care, whether we're talking about abortion care, or managing a cancer diagnosis, figuring out when you're going to get your colonoscopy all of these things are personal, and they require honest, open conversations." "We're bringing that back to Wisconsin, and yesterday was a big step in making that happen," she said. Abortion providers took different steps to provide the service when the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the constitutional right to an abortion in June 2022, leading all Wisconsin's clinics to shutter. Dr. Allie Linton, associate medical director of Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin, said the organization has had to reject some patients during the past 15 months. "I think some of us sort of live and breathe this and and think that everybody is aware of all of the nuances of abortion access in Wisconsin," she said. "For most of our patients, this is health care, and they're just coming in to receive services, and many times they're learning for the first time that that's not accessible." Out-of-state access Linton said she has traveled with Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin physicians to provide abortions in Illinois. "There's always a powerful moment when we are seeing a patient in Illinois and we ask them where they came from and they say 'Wisconsin,' and we say, 'We are too,' and there's just this immediate bond and understanding that all of us know that this is important care, and that we will do everything we can to make sure that they can access it," she said. Lyerly provided telehealth abortion services in Minnesota after the June 2022 U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade and then began travelling to Minnesota to provide abortions last November. Since July she has been providing abortions in Arizona, which is where she was when Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin announced last Thursday that it was reopening abortion services this week. Lyerly said the past 15 months, when abortion wasn't available in Wisconsin, had a chilling effect on Wisconsinites, medical students and residents. "We've all been hoping that we can stay in the state because it's where we want to be," she said. "But we've also recognized that there's this possibility that things can move in a different direction. And I wish that I could be with my colleagues as this news has been unfolding, just to be able to celebrate a little bit with them." Lyerly is now planning to come back to Wisconsin. "I'm really looking forward to coming back home," she said. "My kids are at home. My whole family's there and has been for generations." Lyerly isn't scheduled for the clinics' first slots, but she said she'll be happy to help out where she's needed. Before the decision overturning Roe, Lyerly primarily worked in Planned Parenthood's Sheboygan clinic, which isn't reopening quite yet. Unlike the district attorneys in Dane County and Milwaukee County, Sheboygan County District Attorney Joel Urmanski said he would prosecute providers under the 1849 law. Until an injunction comes, the risk of prosecution under the 1849 law still exists, a situation that Lyerly said she's OK navigating. "If this law is enforced, there's the potential for criminal penalties, but I have to weigh that against the penalties that my patients are experiencing by not being able to access the care that they need," she said. "And this care in many cases determines what happens with the rest of their lives." Ongoing conversation Abortion providers and their lawyers accelerated their conversations about reopening services earlier this summer, after Dane County Judge Diane Schlipper in July ruled the 1849 law didn't apply to abortions. Legal experts recognized that there was a spectrum of risk associated with reopening services so soon. The Dane County ruling gave abortion providers some confidence that the 174-year-old law didn't apply to the services they provided, but it's not as concrete a ruling as an injunction against enforcing the law would be. Nor would an injunction provide providers with as much confidence as a Wisconsin Supreme Court ruling. "We are making this decision now because we know that Wisconsinites cannot and should not wait any longer to receive this essential and life-saving care in their home state," Linton said. "I know I am joined by my colleagues and many in the medical community and saying I'm incredibly grateful to be taking this very important step on that path forward." If Schlipper, as expected, issues a declaration prohibiting prosecutors from going after abortion providers under the 1849 law, Wisconsin would revert to the abortion regulations active during the Roe v. Wade era. Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin stated that as of Monday they'll be operating under those laws, which ban abortions 20 weeks after "probable fertilization." Additionally, women seeking abortions will have to first have an ultrasound, have a counseling period and wait a full day before the procedure. For pill abortions, patients will have to schedule two visits with the same physician one for a counseling appointment and one to get the pills. Laws prohibit telehealth visits and mailing the abortion pill to the patient. TWIN FALLS Greg Green, director of the movie Magpie Funeral, will be this weeks speaker at Chautauqua Tuesday at The Lamphouse Theater. Magpie Funeral is playing at the theater this week from Tuesday through Thursday. Green will field questions about the film and talk about filmmaking in Idaho at 7 p.m., after Tuesdays 5:15 screening. Darren Burrows some will remember him from his role as Ed Chigliak in the 1990s television series Northern Exposure plays Sy McMurphy, a bird lover who wants to witness a magpie funeral. Burrows and actor David Weisenbert will join the discussion virtually after the movie. This is a rare opportunity for me to screen a film with an audience and talk about the film afterward, Green told the Times-News on Monday in a phone call from Boise, where he lives. Independent film theaters like The Lamphouse are real gems. The Lamphouse Theater is at 223 Fifth Ave. S. in Twin Falls. Like many homeowners, I recently received my property tax assessment. It showed a huge increase in my homes value. My reaction was that of excitement thinking about the growth of my home equity. For others, this type of news could lead to deep fear believing a massive property tax bill will soon follow. For reasons well discuss, this isnt necessarily the case. Property taxes are an important part of the tax base for school districts, local governments, and many states. Though based on a relatively straightforward calculation, they are among the least understood taxes by taxpayers. Although there are variations in each state, the general formula for property taxes is the value of the property multiplied by the tax rate. Too often taxpayers focus on assessed values instead of the spending decisions made by government officials when considering their property tax burden. With record property tax assessment increases occurring in states like Idaho, Montana, Washington, and Wyoming, homeowners are concerned about the potential impact on their property tax bills. First, it is important for taxpayers to know that assessments are just a part of the calculation. The main driver of property taxes is spending increases approved by policymakers and voters themselves through levies. The assessor is not responsible for any property tax increase, the budget writers are. This is why efforts to restrict property assessments are often misplaced and lead to other problems. The better way to control property tax increases is on the spending side and/or with levy restrictions. One way to help bring greater transparency to the fact spending is the main cause of property tax increases is with a reform called Truth in Taxation. To bring more transparency to property tax increases, Utah was the first to adopt Truth in Taxation in 1985. Here is how the Utah Legislature describes the tax transparency process: The basic concept of the system is that taxing entities may only budget the same amount of property tax each year, unless they have new growth (not just change in value on existing properties) or go through a very public process of notifying the public and holding a public hearing on the proposed revenue increase. To achieve this, as taxable values change, the tax rate automatically adjusts to provide a constant amount of revenue. When values increase, the tax rate adjusts down to provide the taxing entity the same amount of revenue as it received in the prior year. When values decrease, the tax rate adjusts up to provide the same amount of revenue. Quote With the cry for property tax reform getting louder, policymakers in Idaho ... should focus their efforts on improving transparency and voter engagement with Truth in Taxation. Utahs Property Tax Division further explains: Property Tax increases require a Truth in Taxation process of public disclosure. Taxing entities are required to follow a series of date specific steps, including notification to the county, newspaper advertisements, parcel specific notices, and a public hearing, before adopting a property tax rate above a calculated certified tax rate. The timeline is different for a fiscal year taxing entity (budget cycle July 1 to June 30) and a calendar year entity (budget cycle Jan 1 to Dec 31). Before moving forward with property tax increases, government officials in Utah need to first fill out a Tax Increase Checklist and comply with the Tax Increase Requirements details under Truth in Taxation. Along with Utah, Truth in Taxation exists in Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, and Tennessee. Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte succinctly explained the need for policymakers to focus on property tax transparency when he said: To ease the property tax burden, we must reform our system and bring greater transparency, accountability, and responsibility to local spending. Even though Idaho doesnt have a statewide property tax and the Legislature recently enacted property tax rebates to help with the local tax burden, Truth in Taxation is still needed to help empower taxpayers to better engage and understand their property tax burden and the connection to spending. With the cry for property tax reform getting louder, policymakers in Idaho, Montana, Washington, and Wyoming should focus their efforts on improving transparency and voter engagement with Truth in Taxation. The legal case stemming from the killing last year of four University of Idaho students is underway, with no result conviction, acquittal or something else likely for months to come. During what may be an extended pause in the visible part of the process, theres time to consider whats happened so far. My prompt for that is a new book (slated for release on Oct. 4), While Idaho Slept, by J. Reuben Appelman, piecing together the substantial mass of details about the case collected and publicly available. Absent a legal resolution of the case, the book may seem premature. Still, some months ago, a book by Leah Sottile, When the Moon Turns to Blood, successfully reviewed another not-yet-fully-resolved criminal case by considering not so much the crime itself as the background relating to it. Appelman may be doing the same here, providing a focus for pause and reflection. Too often, the focus in crimes like this is on the perpetrator, which may have the effect of feeding a criminals simple hunger for attention. (Its only a gesture, but I wont name the accused in this column.) Appelman seems to have considered this, and while fully backgrounding the accused, said of his effort that, My goal in writing it was to elevate public memory of the victims What happened to the victims on King Road has made me appreciate how truly valuable each of our lives are, and taught me to hold tightly to the many people who have stayed with me throughout the years. Much of the book does focus on them, though an assembly of information about the subsequent investigation inevitably had to extend further. But in reading the book, I was reminded of something else. Last December, about three weeks following the killings but before an arrest has been made or suspect named, I wrote, And while complaints are abundant about that not having happened yet, and about the relative scarcity of information thats been released, those of us not in the middle of the investigation really have little way of knowing how well law enforcement is or isnt doing. (Credit due, though, for the willingness to clear people who have been thrown into the rumor circles suspect pile.) Eventually, we will be able to evaluate. While Idaho Slept makes a good case that law enforcement did, in fact, do its job. The word that comes to mind, after knowing now much more about the inquiry, is methodical, in a good way. In many murder cases, the offender is either obvious or someone on a suspect short list, and that wasnt remotely the case here. (The actual connection between the accused and the victims still seems, based on publicly available information, the thinnest part of the case.) Investigators didnt seem to have a lot to work with in tracking down their suspect. But they used effectively what data they did have, including a knife sheath, GPS records and other odds and ends, which were put carefully through their paces. Each time Appelman brought up some detail related to the case, I thought: I hope the cops checked that out. And then it turned out they did, more efficiently and energetically than it probably seemed from the outside at the time. While people not only in Moscow but around the world were hollering about the lack of an arrest, the police were patiently assembling the pieces and tracking down their guy, while being careful not to spook him and send him into flight. Law enforcement comes off pretty well in this story. Of course, theres no conviction so far, and as always we have yet to see how a jury reacts to the evidence (which could include more than were publicly aware of now). Sometimes, patience is whats called for. Tanauan salesman Liberato Molina was recently inducted into Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI) Chairmans Ring of Honor. The annual program recognizes the top one percent of all sales leaders across the organizations worldwide locations. Together with his fellow 2023 inductees, Molina, currently on his 16th year as a PCPPI Braveheart, received the distinction in PepsiCos global headquarters in New York in June. Molina said he was surprised to be chosen to be part of the Chairmans Ring of Honor and he remains grateful for the support he has received from his fellow Bravehearts, and to the organizations leaders from whom he still gets guidance and direction to this day. To be part of the Chairmans Ring of Honor also means that Molina is part of a group of exceptional sales personnel who were recognized for their significant contribution to growing the companys business and building meaningful client relationships. Molina is the key outlet manager in Tanauan, Leyte, and he was also part of PCPPIs Ring of Honor Awardees in this years National Summit of Bravehearts in Manila. He credits the strong sense of leadership that the company has instilled in him since he started. Leaders should never stop learning, whether its to develop their skills or in communicating with their teams, he said. His leadership style upholds PCPPIs ICARE values, which stands for Innovation, Care and Respect, Empowerment and Excellence. In his journey with the organization, Molina said he strives to imbibe all these values, especially Care and Respect as he acknowledges the impact his role has on his team. Molina said that it is important that all members of the team understand the direction their organization sets, and that changes are inevitable in the spirit of progress and innovation. It is natural for the company to innovate, changes in direction, in guidelines, [introduce] new products. As leaders, we need to help all members of the organization understand this, he said. PCPPI exclusively manufactures and distributes well-known beverage brands in the Philippines like Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, 7-Up, Mirinda, Sting, Gatorade, Tropicana, Lipton Ice Tea, Mug, Premier and Milkis. In 2023, the organization started bringing Korean soju brand, Chum Churum Soonhari, to more Filipinos nationwide. BEIJINGChinas top diplomat Wang Yi began a four-day visit to Russia for security talks on Monday, his foreign ministry said, the latest in a series of high-level visits and phone calls between the two sides. China and Russia are strategic allies, with both countries frequently touting their no limits partnership and economic and military cooperation. They came even closer after Russias invasion of Ukraine in February last year, which China has refused to criticise. Chinas foreign ministry said in a statement Monday that Wang would hold security consultations at the invitation of Nikolai Patrushev, secretary of Russias security council. Wangs visit was a routine event, the ministry said later at a daily news conference, aiming to promote the development of bilateral relations, and conduct in-depth communication on important issues involving the strategic security interests of the two countries. The Russian foreign ministry said in an earlier briefing Wang would meet his counterpart Sergei Lavrov and the two planned to focus on efforts to strengthen collaboration on the international scene. There will be a detailed exchange of views on issues related to a settlement in Ukraine, as well as ways of ensuring stability and security in the Asia-Pacific region, a spokesperson said. China has sought to position itself as a neutral party in the Ukraine war, while offering Moscow a vital diplomatic and financial lifeline as its international isolation deepens. But it has stopped short of overt military involvement or sending lethal arms to Russia. Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu visited Russia and Belarus last month and called for closer military cooperation. The two countries have carried out joint sea and air patrols in recent months, the latter causing South Korea to deploy fighter jets as a precaution. Their high-level contacts look set to increase, with an aide to Vladimir Putin saying in July that the Russian president was planning to visit China in October. President Xi Jinping made a state visit to Moscow in March and declared that relations between the two countries were entering a new era. At a meeting at the annual Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin told Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing that ties between Russia and China have reached an absolutely unprecedented, historical level. The Taiwanese government is set to establish ten overseas bases, with the Philippines being the primary location, as part of its study and work program to boost the regions workforce. The Ministry of Education plans to invest 5.2 billion New Taiwan dollars (P9.3 million) from 2024 to 2028 to promote international student enrollment and stay in Taiwan. Dr. Lee Tien-Shang, President of Kun-Shan University (KSU), announced the plans to establish overseas bases in Manila, Cebu, and Iloilo, among other locations. The bases will serve as platforms for academic and industry-academia exchange and collaboration between Taiwan and the Philippines. Each location will promote high-quality Mandarin, cultural experiences, and preparatory courses, with the aim of deepening the international educational exchange and cooperation between universities in both countries. KSU will establish new specialized programs, including dual-degree programs, bachelor programs, post-bachelor programs, and masters and doctoral programs, with a priority focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), finance, and semiconductor-related fields. Students will receive industry-academia scholarships funded by Taiwans National Development Fund for up to two years and living and onternship allowances provided by companies. After graduation, students will be required to work in Taiwan for at least two years to meet the talent needs of the industry. A KSU delegation is also set to visit Rizal Technological University (RTU) on or before the end of September to discuss the details of establishing an official recruitment headquarters in the Philippines. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said that the Philippines can expect enhanced collaboration with Singapore after his successful five-day working visit to the island state. In a post on his social media accounts on Monday, President Marcos shared that while in Singapore, he had a promising discussion with Singapores Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Deputy PM Lawrence Wong during dinner on Sunday. Our countries can expect enhanced collaboration on multiple fronts to address common global challenges, Mr. Marcos said. Later in the evening, we watched Ferrari clinch the podium at the F1 (Formula 1) Grand Prix (race in Singapore), the President added. Mr. Marcos attended the F1 race at the invitation of Prime Minister Lee. The President returned to the country Sunday night after leaving for Singapore on September 13 after he was invited to speak at the 10th Asia Summit hosted by the Milken Institute. While abroad, Mr. Marcos met with various economic managers and business leaders to discuss the Philippines priority policies and programs to transform its economy. The Philippines received a P11-billion investment pledge from Singapore-based multinational firm Dyson, which plans to invest in the country in the next two years. Earlier, Indias GMR Group also expressed its intention to invest in the countrys airport, road, and renewable energy projects. Meanwhile, Malaysian retail specialist Valiram Group said it is looking to expand its operations in the Philippines by developing airport outlets for duty-free retail tourism. The President also surprised overseas Filipino workers in Singapore after he went to Lucky Plaza Mall, where OFWs usually gather during the weekends. Dakar, Senegal Armed men on Sunday took over two military camps in northern Mali, two elected officials told AFP, with a spokesman for an alliance of predominantly Tuareg armed groups claiming the attack. The Malian military confirmed on social networks that the town of Lere, in the Timbuktu Region of northern Mali, had been attacked around 3:30 pm (1530 GMT) on Sunday. A Malian military official told AFP it was in the process of dealing with the situation. Armed men attacked the two (military) camps in the town of Lere on Sunday, an elected official from the town told AFP. After fighting, the armed men took the camps. We are waiting for reinforcement from the army, but for the moment it is the armed men who hold the camps, he added. An official from the administrative region also said armed men had attacked the two camps and continued to hold them. He said there had been deaths but could not provide a toll. Almou Ag Mohamed, a spokesman for the Coordination of Azawad Movements (CMA), an alliance of armed separatist groups dominated by Tuaregs, claimed the attack. We attacked and took control of the two military camps in the town of Lere this Sunday, he told AFP. The camps are under our control. We shot down an army plane. Rebellion revived Officials have said the assailants have not yet been formally identified. The successionist groups in 2012 launched a rebellion before signing a peace agreement with the state in 2015. But that accord is now generally considered moribund. This month has seen a resumption of hostilities by the groups. On Tuesday, the groups launched an offensive against army positions in the garrison town of Bourem, which the military said it had repelled. The two sides provided contradictory reports of events, but both reported dozens of deaths. The renewed military activity by the separatists has coincided with a series of attacks attributed mainly to the Al-Qaeda-linked jihadist alliance Support Group for Islam and Muslims (GSIM). In August, GSIM announced it was declaring war in the Timbuktu region. In a separate incident on Sunday, two soldiers were killed and one injured in an ambush near the village of Akor in western Mali, the intelligence services said. That attack took place on a supply mission returning from the town of Guire, it said, adding that four attackers had also been killed. On Saturday, junta leader Assimi Goita signed a mutual defence pact with his Nigerien and Burkinabe counterparts establishing a military alliance and pledging to assist one another in the event of an attack on their sovereignty or territorial integrity. RICHMOND Virginias lawyers of last resort, public defenders, say theyre straining under the weight of crushing workloads. New national standards, and a forthcoming study from the state legislature, will clarify the scope of the issue. The data was measured against new standards for public defenders published by a collaboration that includes the American State Bar Association and the National Center for State Courts. Maria Jankowski, executive director of Virginias Indigent Defense Commission, the state agency that manages and trains public defenders and court-appointed attorneys, said the workloads are unsustainable. Jankowski said public defenders offices face an acute need for more staffing. We are truly at a tipping point, and we cannot simply arrest our way out of this problem, Jankowski said. We have to rethink who we chose to arrest, who we chose to prosecute and why we have a criminal justice system. In Virginia, even the most conservative calculations show a similar strain. In Suffolk, eight public defenders shoulder the weight of 1,900 cases, according to data shared by the office. Under the new standards, each lawyer is taking at least 98 more cases than they should. In Staunton and Virginia Beach, the numbers were similarly high. Lawyers in those offices each take 82 more cases than they should be expected to, on average. From Richmond to Roanoke, Fairfax to Fredericksburg, nearly every lawyer charged with protecting the poor is overworked, the data show. Just how overworked is unclear. Jankowskis agency doesnt track caseloads by type, which muddies the picture: murder cases can wind through the courtroom for months, while probation violations can be resolved in hours. That means the new standards dont neatly explain which offices have the most need. The numbers above assume a Virginia public defender only took on the least time-intensive cases. Even still, just four localities shared caseload data within the bounds of the new standards. They are Petersburg, Alexandria, Portsmouth and Martinsville. A clearer assessment of the problem is forthcoming. In 2022, the Virginia legislature tasked their main auditing body, JLARC, to review how the state funds public defense. The bill was presented by state Sen. John Edwards, D-Roanoke. JLARCs findings will become public in November of this year. The report will be the first of its kind in over a decade and is expected to break out Virginia-specific data, said Justin Brown, senior associate director at JLARC. I dont think Im going out on a limb by saying that we dont expect Virginia data to be too different from the national data, said Brown, who is leading the study. Its clearly something that has been a concern for a while. Virginias system is complicated by some of the states idiosyncrasies. Some localities, like Henrico, do not use public defenders but court-appointed attorneys lawyers in private practice who are paid at a rate set by the State Supreme Court. Its not clear whether that system is preferable to having full-time attorneys for indigent defense. But what is clear is that the pool of court-appointed attorneys is shrinking. In 2022, the pool of lawyers certified to take on indigent defendants shrunk by 11%. At the Richmond Public Defenders office, junior public defender salaries hover closer to $55,000, according to data. The starting salary for an assistant attorney in the Richmond Commonwealths Attorneys Office is $73,500 and the starting salary for a paralegal is $44,096. Both are paid from state coffers, but prosecutors typically pick up supplements of up to $20,000, according to 2021 reporting in the Virginia Mercury. The city of Richmond also supplements the salaries in the Office of the Public Defender and the Commonwealths Attorneys Office. Stephen Hanlon, the author of the national workload study, is adamant that all public defense systems need more public scrutiny. He says its unethical for defendants to be stuck with attorneys that dont have time to return their calls, and unethical for judges to be giving overworked lawyers more cases an allotment system known as docket management. This will be very valuable to Virginia both for its funding to the legislature and its docket management for the court system, said Hanlon. The Kenyan Head of State toured the American giants in Silicon Valley, over the weekend, where he met senior executives from Apple, Intel, Google and Microsoft, among others. On X (formerly Twitter), he called on companies to set up in Kenya. Kenyas presidential communications department has taken it on board: it was a charm offensive that President William Ruto undertook in California. In front of the tech giants, he extolled Kenyas strengths: a stable country, a skilled workforce, green energies and high cell phone and Internet penetration. As an example, he cited the success of M-pesa, the mobile payment system. Above all, the Kenyan Head of state promised a business-friendly economic environment. Yet, his Government has just doubled a tax on digital services. Rising from 1.5% to 3%, it targets all those who profit from Internet services, including the digital giants. This visit is part of the Kenyan Presidents plan to strengthen Kenyas position as a technology hub on the African continent. Several American giants have already set up operations here, including Microsoft, which has established a research and development center in Nairobi. Others may follow. William Ruto obtained several promises during his tour of Silicon Valley. According to the Kenyan presidency, Apple is considering setting up a developer academy in the country. Al-Shabab militants attacked caravans carrying Ethiopian soldiers in the Bakool region of southwestern Somalia in the early hours of Sunday September 17, Somali authorities said. The ambush targeted two caravans, one traveling from the Somali town of Yeed to Wajid and the second traveling from El Barde to the town of Huddur. Ethiopian troops have bases in Wajid and Huddur. A Somali official said that local forces were accompanying the convoy heading from El Barde to Huddur. The mayor of Huddur, Omar Abdullahi Mohamud, told media that the fighting began after al-Shabab ambushes. The fighting started after the anti-peace elements attacked the Ethiopian and Somali military convoy heading towards Wajid and Huddur, starting their attack with explosions, said Mohamud. The troops repelled the attack and the situation is calm. Mohamud said the militants had lost around 50 fighters. A senior Somali regional official who asked not to be identified told media that the most intense ambush targeted Ethiopian troops escorting military supplies to Ethiopian soldiers in Wajid. He said that when that convoy left the town of Yeed on Saturday, it spent the night near the village of Booco, about 40 kilometers north of Wajid. At dawn, the convoy resumed its journey towards Wajid, but was ambushed by al-Shabab, he said. We heard that two vehicles were hit by explosions.According to him, the fighting went on for hours. Al-Shabab claimed responsibility for the ambush. In a statement, Al-Shabab claims to have killed 167 Ethiopian soldiers, destroyed military vehicles and seized a cache of weapons and ammunition. The casualty figures provided by both sides have not been independently verified. China concludes weeklong military barracks cybersecurity campaign Xinhua) 10:24, September 18, 2023 BEIJING, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- China on Sunday concluded a weeklong campaign to promote awareness of cybersecurity in its military barracks. The campaign focused on the themes of promoting civilized internet use, ensuring cybersecurity in accordance with the law, and fostering a clean online environment for the military. Military units organized various online and offline activities throughout the week, including forums on the comprehensive management of cybersecurity, expert lectures, quizzes, specialized training on network confidentiality, grassroots-level legal awareness campaigns, and online question and answer sessions. The diverse activities received widespread praise from service members, who said they believe that their participation in the cybersecurity awareness activities has strengthened their sense of duty when it comes to safeguarding cybersecurity in military barracks. "This event has deepened our understanding of the complex and challenging nature of cybersecurity," said Wang Airui, an Air Force soldier from the Central Theater Command. "I will remain vigilant, cultivate healthy internet habits, and continuously enhance my cyber defense skills." Officials of the Central Military Commission expressed their commitment to consolidating the achievements of the campaign by putting in place a regular mechanism for the promotion of cybersecurity awareness, and to actively promoting cybersecurity at the grassroots level, within military institutions, in textbooks and in classrooms. Their efforts will involve the seamless coordination of relevant units and authorities, aiming to create an "ironclad shield" for cybersecurity in China's military barracks. (Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun) The Islamic State terrorist organization has claimed, through its propaganda channels, to have executed 11 Christians in Mozambique, in the district of Mocimboa da Praia, Cabo Delgado province. The terrorist group, which has been operating in Cabo Delgado province for almost six years, also claims to have bombed members of the Mozambican Armed Forces. Local sources said on Sunday September 2023 that the attack took place at around 3pm on Friday September in Naquitenge, a village in the interior of the Mocimboa da Praia district, but would not confirm that it was a raid against members of the Mozambican army. When they arrived there, they called a meeting. The people in the village didnt know they were terrorists and after that they started separating Christians from Muslims, based on their names. After that, they opened fire on the Christians, a source who lost his nephew in the attack explained. Although Islamic State claims the deaths of 11 people, other sources speak of at least 12 dead at the scene and several wounded. They practically `loaded people with gunfire. Some people were injured and fled into the woods. Its one of the most vicious attacks weve ever heard of, another source from Mocimboa da Praia, who has a relative who managed to escape from Naquitenge during the attack. The district of Mocimboa da Praia was where armed groups carried out their first attack in October 2017, and has long been described as the rebels base. Mocimboa da Praia is located 70 kilometers south of the construction area of the natural gas exploration project in Afungi, Palma, led by TotalEnergies. President of the United States Joseph R. Biden, had on Monday a phone call with King Mohammed VI during which he praised Moroccos swift and efficient management of the painful earthquake that struck several provinces of the Kingdom on Sept.8 and expressed his countrys readiness to provide the necessary assistance to the Kingdom. During the call, the US president expressed his personal condolences, as well as those of the American people and government, to the Sovereign and to the Moroccan people, following the painful tremor. President Biden took this opportunity to praise the swift and efficient management, in accordance with the royal directives, of the consequences of this natural disaster of such a magnitude. President Biden also expressed the readiness of the United States of America to provide the necessary assistance and support to the Kingdom based on the needs identified by Moroccan authorities and as part of the comprehensive action plan deployed by the Kingdom to address this tragedy. 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 California lawmakers gave final approval late Thursday to a significant overhaul of the state's landmark 1967 behavioral health law, part of an ongoing effort to address a statewide mental illness crisis made worse by homelessness and illicit drugs, such as fentanyl and methamphetamines. Senate Bill 43, introduced this year by Sen. Susan Talamantes Eggman (D-Stockton), expands the criteria for the detention, treatment and conservatorship of people with severe mental illness. Passed by the Assembly and the Senate, the bill advances to Gov. Gavin Newsom, who has until Oct. 14 to sign or veto the measure. The bill is one of three passed by the Legislature before Thursday night's deadline aimed at transforming the behavioral health landscape in California. The others, championed by Newsom, place two measures on the March 2024 ballot to fund an increase in psychiatric beds and services across the state. Eggman's bill represents a decades-long legislative effort to amend the Lanterman Petris Short Act, or LPS, passed when Ronald Reagan was governor. That law said someone could be detained against their will if they are "gravely disabled" or posed a danger to themselves or others. "This is the year we got there," said Eggman, who sees SB 43 as one of a series of legislative victories that have transformed mental health care in the state. "These have been the biggest five years for behavioral health in Californiaif not in the history of the state, then certainly since the 1960s." The measure was endorsed by a coalition of mayors, psychiatrists, physicians and the National Alliance on Mental Illness California, who said it provides counties with another tool for addressing an epidemic of mental illness. It could be implemented county by county starting in January. "Reforming LPS has been a goal since the 1980s, so this has been a long time coming," said Rod Shaner, former medical director of the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health. "SB 43 is the culmination of many bills and attempts to modernize core LPS language. Eggman has moved this bill further than many people thought likely." Critics, who include human rights and disability rights advocates, argue that SB 43 could undermine the civil liberties of Black, Indigenous and other communities of color, given the demographics of the state's homeless population. Others say the measure risks overwhelming a mental health system already stretched to capacity. Deb Roth, a senior legislative advocate for Disability Rights California, said the bill "will lead to more use of conservatorship, which takes away people's rights." Roth testified against the bill in the Assembly Judiciary Committee. Together with the CARE Act and Newsom's initiatives calling for the reform of mental health services funding, SB 43 is part of a wave of change coming to California's behavioral health laws. SB 43 adds "severe substance use disorder" to the definition of gravely disabled, which had previously been defined as the inability to provide food, clothing and shelter. In addition to those categories, the law adds "personal safety and necessary medical care" as basic personal needs for compelling people into treatment. Under SB 43, if evidence is found that a mental health disorder or substance use disorder is placingor will placea person's physical or mental health in "substantial risk of serious harm," crisis teams and mental health providers can initiate an involuntary hold that can lead to conservatorship. The focus on substance use disorderwhich adds to the focus that LPS places on "chronic alcoholism"takes into account the "overlap of substance abuse and mental illness," Shaner said. "Treating mental illness can't be successful without tackling substance abuse." In addition, the new law gives conservatorship court more leeway in allowing testimony from expert witnesses, who may not have first-hand knowledge of a case. Medical records, for instance, are often ruled as hearsay in court and inadmissible unless the doctor who wrote the report testifies. SB 43 would go into effect in 2024, but counties can postpone implementation until 2026 amid concerns about the burden it might place on already crowded psychiatric facilities. NAMI California, which co-sponsored SB 43, said in a statement that the bill is "essential" for those living with severe mental illness and their families by "modernizing the definition" of gravely disabled. L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger said she hopes the Department of Public Healthwith its division of substance abuse prevention and controlwill move urgently to put SB 43 into practice. "We want to be methodical, but we don't have that luxury," she said. "People in communities are frustrated, and people are languishing in the streets." But the county's Department of Health Services, which operates three hospitals with locked psychiatric emergency departments and inpatient psychiatric units, expressed concern about resources, saying in a statement that the law would pressure facilities to "discharge patients to sub-acute beds that don't exist." The California State Assn. of Counties raised a similar concern. "Expanding the definition does not expand placements in a system already stretched thin. To truly realize an expansion of LPS, additional investments are needed for treatment, including locked facilities, workforce, housing, and step-down care options," it said in a statement. An estimated 171,000 people are homeless in California, and nearly 70,000 live in Los Angeles County. In 2019, it was estimated that as many as 76% of homeless people in the county could be affected by mental illness, substance abuse, poor health and physical disability. Dr. Margot Kushel, who directs the Center for Vulnerable Populations at UC San Francisco, said she doesn't believe the bill will be as effective as legislators hope. "Eggman is right to bring attention to a big problem, but I don't think changing the definition of grave disability will meaningfully address the problem it is trying to solve," she said. "We already have very strong laws that allow us to hold people against their will, but that system is not functioning because at the end of the day we don't have adequate housing or support for those people." Rachel Bhagwat, legislative advocate for the ACLU California Action, said that involuntary holds do not work in advancing treatment and instead "lead to processing people into the most restrictive and most expensive corners of the system." "We want to make sure people get the services they need, and while SB 43 was written with good intentions, it expands an approach that has failed and harmed our communities," Bhagwat said. The other key measures approved by the Legislature would amend the state's Mental Health Services Act. AB 531 is a nearly $6.4-billion bond measure for the construction of mental health campuses, residences and permanent supportive housing. SB 326 would reallocate $1 billion from the act to operate the facilities. These high-profile bills will reform a primary funding stream for behavioral health in California. When Eggman introduced SB 43 in March, she cited progress lawmakers had made addressing the escalation of homelessness and mental illness that had overtaken the state's ability to provide meaningful treatment. But that work, she added, had "not made a huge dent in helping the most ill." An unwillingness to modify LPS stood in the way. That legislation, which went into effect in 1972, served as a model for similar bills written by other states interested in adopting a more progressive approach to behavioral health care, and for years, its landmark status made it difficult for California lawmakers to reform. But now with SB 43 on Newsom's desk, that fidelity to the past is gone. None too soon, according to Eggman. "We were the most steadfast in holding to LPSand not to our credit," she said. "We had a part in not helping people and letting it go on for too long." 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: Microscopic view of West Nile virus particles in a cell. Credit: NIAID, CC BY During the late summer of 1999, New York City recorded an unusual number of cases of encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). At the same time, the Bronx Zoo reported a massive death of birds and mammals. The human encephalitis cases might have been attributed to a flare-up of an endemic arbovirus (a virus transmitted by a tick or mosquito bite) such as St. Louis encephalitis, but the concurrent bird and mammal deaths suggested the human illnesses warranted further investigation. Scientists eventually identified these as the first confirmed cases of West Nile virus (WNV) in North America. West Nile virus in North America WNV was first reported in a woman with a fever in Uganda in 1937. An outbreak in Israel in 1957 established WNV as a cause of severe meningoencephalitis (inflammation of the spinal cord and brain) in elderly patients. Several clusters or medium-range outbreaks were reported from Asia, Europe and Africa in the 20th century. Finally, the virus managed to cross the Atlantic and landed in North America in 1999. In 1999, the case number was limited to 62 in New York City, and there was concern about a huge surge in 2000. Fortunately, the case number in 2000 was 21, which is exceedingly low, but it had spread to New Jersey and Connecticut. The case number remained in a similar low range (only 66 cases) in 2001. However, the virus hit hard the following year. In 2002, the case number rose to over 4,000 in the United States. The same year, Canada experienced its first cases in Ontario. The U.S. has reported a cumulative total of 56,569 cases and 2,773 deaths, while Canada has reported 6,683 cases and about 150 deaths (I'm told by the Centre for Food-borne, Environmental & Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Public Health Agency of Canada), with the highest number of cases observed in the U.S. in 2003 and in Canada in 2007. This virus spread across the entire continent very quickly, and covered most of North America by 2005. However, it took almost 10 years for the virus to show up in British Columbia. In Canada, most of the cases were found in the Prairie region (Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba). In the U.S., Midwestern states have been most affected. West Nile virus is an RNA virus, a close cousin of Dengue, Yellow fever, St. Louis encephalitis and Zika virus, to name a few. It belongs to the family Flaviviridae. Symptoms and transmission Approximately 80 percent of people exposed to WNV are asymptomatic. The incubation period in humans is about a week; however, this ranges from two to 15 days after the virus enters the body. Among symptomatic individuals, all of them experience fever, and many also experience headaches, body aches, a mild rash and swollen lymph glands to varying degrees. Although most cases go unnoticed, the virus still has deadly potential. A small number of people (around one percent) experience severe symptoms, including encephalitis. However, over the years, the number of neurological cases has been increasing. This virus is mostly transmitted via mosquito bites; however, very rarely it could transmit via blood transfusion, organ or tissue transplants, from mother to unborn babies and through exposure to infected animals. A number of birds, predominantly corvids such as crows, jays and magpies, act as reservoirs as well as amplifying hosts. When an uninfected mosquito feeds on an infected bird and then bites a healthy human, the human becomes infected. Humans are considered dead-end hosts, meaning that even if a mosquito feeds on an infected individual, that mosquito cannot transmit the virus to another individual as can happen with the dengue virus. Once people are severely infected with West Nile virus, they acquire longer immunity. Older people are usually at high risk for severe infection due to underlying health conditions. People with diabetes and uncontrolled hypertension have a greater risk of developing severe neurological disease from the West Nile virus. Diagnosis Patients who become ill with a fever and severe headache within a few days of a mosquito bite should visit their family physician or any health-care facility. Because WNV is closely related to other pathogens, diagnosis is often challenging. Patient signs and symptoms, history of mosquito bites and laboratory tests are all important when assessing patients for possible infection with West Nile virus. The most common laboratory test is to detect antibodies against WNV in the blood. However, WNV antibodies cross-react with dengue, Zika or other flaviviruses, so if this test is positive, an additional test is required to confirm the diagnosis. This additional test is called the Plaque Reduction Neutralization Test or PRNT for short. It requires a live virus, so it must be done in a containment level 3 (CL3) laboratory. The laboratory can also diagnose viral RNA using molecular tests, but interestingly, the virus often disappears from the blood when people exhibit symptoms. For encephalitic patients, cerebrospinal fluid can be used to detect the virus using molecular methods such as a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. Preventive measures There is no human vaccine for the West Nile virus. The most important preventive measure to avoid West Nile virus infection is to avoid mosquito bites. This seems simple but is often very challenging. People should use common sense during outdoor and indoor activities. Mosquito bites can be prevented by using bug spray, wearing protective clothing and avoiding areas that may have mosquitoes during the times when the species is most active, typically dusk and dawn. A few species of mosquitoes can transmit WNV to humans. Among these, two of the most common speciesthe Culex pipiens and Culex tarsalisare found across Canada, and their habitat is predicted to expand with climate change. Mosquitoes not only transmit WNV, but also transmit California serogroup viruses, which cause encephalitis, as well as eastern equine encephalitis viruses. There is also no specific treatment for West Nile virus; medical management is supportive. Patients with severe symptoms often require pain control for headaches and medication and rehydration to treat nausea and vomiting. So far in 2023, only a few human cases have been identified in Ontario. However, a few mosquito pools in Manitoba and Ontario also tested positive, and also a few WNV-positive birds were found in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec. No matter how many cases we are seeing, everyone is advised to take precautions against mosquito bites to avoid these life-threatening diseases. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain The risk of death from breast cancer is 43% higher for women who had at least one treatment interval longer than the recommended treatment timeframes, according to new research. The research, published in the Medical Journal of Australia, examined associations between breast cancer survival and timeliness of treatment. It found that breast cancer-specific survival was poorer for women with breast cancer who received treatment outside the recommended treatment interval timeframes, which are defined by the 2020 Australian guidelines for the treatment for early breast cancer. Breast cancer is the second most frequent cause of cancer-related deaths of Australian women, Dr. Kou Kou said, who was the lead author of the study and is the Senior Research Officer of Epidemiology at Cancer Council Queensland. "Despite recent efforts to improve therapy, between 33% [and] 52% of women diagnosed with breast cancer do not receive timely treatment," Dr. Kou Kou said. "Our study shows that any delay in commencing or continuing treatment is associated with poorer survival." The guidelines for the treatment of early breast cancer list six treatment intervals: diagnosis to neoadjuvant therapy (neoadjuvant systemic therapy should start as soon as diagnosis and staging is complete, ideally within two to four weeks); neoadjuvant therapy to surgery (surgery should be performed within four to six weeks of neoadjuvant systemic therapy, allowing for recovery from myelosuppression); diagnosis to surgery (surgery should be performed within one month of decision to treat with surgery for women who do not receive neoadjuvant therapy); surgery to chemotherapy (adjuvant chemotherapy should commence within four to six weeks of surgery); surgery to radiotherapy (women who have completed definitive surgery for breast cancer should commence radiotherapy as soon as possible after wound healing, and within eight weeks of surgery if no adjuvant chemotherapy received); and chemotherapy to radiotherapy (women who have completed definitive surgery for breast cancer should commence radiotherapy within three to four weeks of completing adjuvant chemotherapy). The researchers at Cancer Council Queensland conducted a population-based cohort study of women aged 2079 years diagnosed with invasive breast cancer between 1 March 2010 and 30 June 2013, as recorded on the Queensland Cancer Register. "We compared treatment intervals for each participating woman with the guidelines," Professor Peter Baade said, a biostatistician and senior manager of descriptive epidemiology at Cancer Council Queensland. "We found the risk of death from breast cancer was significantly greater for women who underwent surgery more than 29 days after diagnosis, or commenced chemotherapy more than 36 days after surgery, or commenced radiotherapy more than 31 days after completing adjuvant chemotherapy, compared to women who received treatment before the corresponding time points. "The risk of death from breast cancer is 43% higher for women who had at least one treatment interval longer than the recommended timeframe." There are several reasons why women may have longer than recommended treatment intervals, the researchers said. "A patient's treatment intervals may be affected by a number of factors, including if they live in regional or remote Australia," Dr. Kou Kou said. "Women using public screening facilities tend to have longer intervals compared to those using private ones. And timing matters too; starting or completing treatment in December to January often leads to longer intervals between treatments. "Women without a family history of ovarian or breast cancer often have longer treatment intervals compared to those with a family history. Smoking, lower household income, and not having private health insurance were linked to longer intervals." "Therefore, it is vital that the 2020 Australian guidelines for the treatment for early breast cancer are followed as closely as possible. "The clinical evidence is in: these guidelines save lives, so we need to make sure they are being followed by clinicians to give their patients the best chance of survival." More information: Kou Kou et al, Treatment intervals and survival for women diagnosed with early breast cancer in Queensland: the Breast Cancer Outcomes Study, a populationbased cohort study, Medical Journal of Australia (2023). DOI: 10.5694/mja2.52091 Journal information: Medical Journal of Australia Provided by Medical Journal of Australia 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: 20-year survival curves for patients with alcohol-related diagnoses (orange) and the patients in the control group (blue). Credit: Professor Drew Richardson People who come to emergency departments with alcohol-related diseases or conditions are more likely to make return visits and to die in the following 20 years than people who come to emergency departments for other reasons, according to new research. For many, this means they may die in their 40s or 50s. Professor Drew Richardson told the European Emergency Medicine Congress that he and his colleagues had followed 194 patients who had alcohol-related diagnoses when they arrived in the emergency department of The Canberra Hospital in 2002. They compared them with a control group of 194 patients who had diagnoses unrelated to alcohol, and they followed both groups until 2022. "The group of patients with alcohol-related diagnoses made 44% more visits over the next decade, and had a 138% higher death rate over the following 20 years, than the control group," said Prof. Richardson, who is Professor of Emergency Medicine at Australian National University, Canberra, Australia. "The true death rate may be higher because we lost some patients during the follow-up period. After nearly 14 years, the percentage of patients lost to follow-up was similar for both groups: 40.2% for the alcohol-related cases and 39.2% for the controls. "There was a wide variety of reasons these patients came to our emergency department, including alcohol withdrawal symptoms, trauma-related injuries, and acute alcohol intoxication. "If these patients could be targeted by trained professionals while they are in the emergency department to educate them about the consequences of alcohol use, and to offer them assistance in moderating their alcohol consumption, it might be possible to reduce this significant health burden. Presentations related to alcohol consumption are a major burden in emergency departments." The study was initiated by one of Prof. Richardson's medical students, Ms. Regan Lim, who had personal family experience of the effects of alcohol and wanted to investigate further. "Chronic and excessive consumption of alcohol has been a long-standing problem in our society. Emergency departments are the first point of contact for the many consequences of alcohol-related harm. Alcohol-related cases make up 9.5%-15.2% of presentations to emergency departments, and 8.3%-17.9% of emergency department occupancy in Australasia," said Prof. Richardson. The researchers analyzed the number of patients who came to the emergency department between 1998-2002 (the period before the study started), 2003-2012 (the decade after) and 2013-2022 (the second decade after). The patients with alcohol-related diagnoses had made 522 presentations to the emergency department before the start of the study, compared to 389 for the patients in the control group. In 2002, the numbers were 437 compared to 399, respectively. In the first decade after, they were 1,226 compared to 846 respectively. In the second decade, there was a smaller difference due to the numbers lost to follow-up: 820 compared to 673 presentations respectively. Just over half (56%) of the patients in the alcohol group were male, the median (average) age was 28, and they were usually put into Triage Category 3, which meant they had potentially life-threatening conditions and needed treatment within 30 minutes. The majority (64%) presented in the emergency department in the late evening and over night, between 20:00 hours and 06:00 hours. During the follow-up period, 44 patients died, of whom 31 were patients with alcohol-related diagnoses who died a median of eight years after 2002, and 13 were from the control group, who died a median of 13 years after 2002. Prof. Richardson said, "Society and policymakers should recognize the major role that alcohol plays in illnesses and death in our community, and the need for preventative measures. Alcohol consumption is a significant part of Australasian society, but this study shows that consumption that leads to a visit to a hospital's emergency department is extremely risky in the long term. "We have been studying the effects of alcohol presentations in emergency departments for over a decade. The next logical step is a long-term trial of an alcohol intervention program in the emergency department to see if this really does reduce burden of drink-related effects on patients and hard-pressed emergency staff." Professor Youri Yordanov from the St. Antoine Hospital emergency department (APHP Paris), France, is Chair of the EUSEM 2023 abstract committee and was not involved in the research. He said, "This study shows a pattern that is familiar to many of us working in emergency departments around the world: Alcohol abuse is responsible for a large proportion of patients vising emergency departments. "Not only does this place significant burdens on emergency departments that are already over-stretched for a variety of reasons, including aging populations and underfunding, but it shortens people's lives too. Initiatives to intervene at an early stage to help prevent repeat visits to emergency departments and the problems associated with alcohol abuse would be very welcome and we look forward to seeing the results of further studies into this." More information: Abstract no: OA110, "Long term outcomes after alcohol-related presentation to ED" by Drew Richardson, in the "Education, training and toxicology" oral session, Tuesday 19 September at 11.05-12.30 hrs CEST, Room 131. https://cm.eusem.org/cmPortal/Searchable/EXA/config/normal/redirectconfig/normal/redirectconference/EUSEM23 Provided by European Society for Emergency Medicine (EUSEM) This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: CC0 Public Domain An international team of scientists has developed a method for simultaneously detecting thousands of lipid molecules that are displayed to T cells in the human immune system. The study, co-led by D. Branch Moody, MD, of the Division of Rheumatology, Immunity and Inflammation at Brigham and Women's Hospital, a founding member of the Mass General Brigham health care system, represents a collaboration among researchers from Oxford, United Kingdom, Melbourne, Australia and Groningen, Netherlands. Results are published in Cancer Cell. The team developed a new and sensitive method to detect more than 2,000 lipids bound to CD1 antigen-presenting molecules, which display antigens to the human immune system. While scientists have long known that T cells recognize antigens, until the 1990s, it was thought that these antigens were always peptides derived from proteins. Because lipids are not encoded by genes and are instead made by enzymes and form into membranes, they have entirely different functions and positions in the cell. The ability to measure many lipid antigens at one time will allow future researchers to cross-check any disease-related lipid of interest to the list of candidate lipid antigens from this map and potentially make connections to diseases. Their efforts yielded the first integrated CD1 lipidomic map, which could help guide the investigation and discovery of lipid blockers and antigens for T cells and support the view that lipids normally influence immune responses. The research builds on earlier methods that separate cellular lipids in one chromatographic system, which provided only a limited perspective. The new structural biology work, undertaken in the lab of Jamie Rossjohn, Ph.D., FRS, showed how lipids fit inside proteins using size-based mechanisms. Combined, the structures and biochemistry detail rules about the size, shape, and chemical content of the kinds of lipids that can bind CD1 and cause a T cell responseeither activation or deactivation. It is the latest in a series of studies that date back to the 1990s, when Brigham scientists discovered that T cells can recognize lipid antigens. "I applaud the tenacity of the researchers for building the critical mass of technology needed to develop this multi-stage system that allows large numbers of lipids to be identified, solved individually, and then grouped in patterns," said Moody. "The Brigham provides an environment where physicians and scientists from differing fields can collaborate. This multidisciplinary effort involved biophysical techniques related to mass spectrometry and biological techniques related to lipid chemistry. The lipids informed immunological outputs, and the mode of lipid recognition is proven through X-ray crystallography." More information: Catherine J Wu, ZNF683 marks a CD8+ T cell population associated with anti-tumor immunity following anti-PD-1 therapy for Richter syndrome, Cancer Cell (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2023.08.013. www.cell.com/cancer-cell/fullt 1535-6108(23)00306-9 Journal information: Cancer Cell This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The study by the University of Barcelona reveals how the lack of the CERKL gene, which causes hereditary vision diseases, is capable of altering the retina's ability to fight oxidative stress and cause blindness. Credit: Redox Biology (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102862 There are still many enigmas about the mechanism of action of the CERKL gene, which causes retinitis pigmentosa and other hereditary vision diseases. Now, a team from the University of Barcelona has described how the lack of the CERKL gene alters the ability of retinal cells to fight oxidative stress generated by light and triggers cell death mechanisms that cause blindness. The new study, published in the journal Redox Biology, is a step forward in characterizing hereditary blindness and identifying key mechanisms to address future treatments based on precision medicine. The study was led by Professor Gemma Marfany, from the Faculty of Biology, the Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Barcelona (IBUB) and the Rare Diseases Networking Biomedical Research (CIBERER). The research study, carried out with animal models, is the result of close collaboration with teams from the Sant Joan de Deu Research Institute (IRSJD), the University of Valencia, the Severo Ochoa Molecular Biology Center (CSIC -UAM) and the Hospital 12 de Octubre Research Institute in Madrid. The study reveals for the first time that when the CERKL gene is missing, retinal cells are permanently stressed. "This basal exacerbated state means that when additional oxidative damage is causedas with continuous light stimulationthe cells are no longer able to respond because they can no longer activate antioxidant response mechanisms," says Marfany, a member of the UB's Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistics. "Therefore, the retina is permanently inflamed. As a consequence, retinal cells activate cell death mechanisms, such as necroptosis and ferroptosis. Although the experiments have been performed in mice, these alterations allow us to explain how and why photoreceptor cells die in patients and cause blindness," she adds. How does the retina respond to light when the CERKL gene is missing? The retina is a neural tissue that is constantly subjected to light stressand therefore oxidative stressand retinal cells must activate antioxidant mechanisms to cope with it. The new study is based on a transgenic mouse model in which the CERKL gene has been eliminated using gene editing techniques (CRISPR). By applying electrophysiological techniques, it was shown that the retina of these mice without CERKL progressively degenerated in a manner similar to that of human patients. But how is the physiological activity of altered photoreceptors when CERKL is mutated? "Thanks to the multidisciplinary collaboration between teams, we have been able to combine different approaches to delve into the pathology caused by mutations in CERKL. Transcriptomics techniques have revealed how the retina responds to light stress when it lacks the CERKL protein. Metabolomic analysis has identified the altered cellular biochemical pathways that do not allow the retina to cope with the oxidative damage generated by excess light and end up causing the death of photoreceptors," says Marfany. "We believe that CERKL is a resilience gene in oxidative stress. All this knowledge complements genetic studies and opens up new avenues for future therapeutic approaches," the researcher explains. Discovering the function of genes in order to design therapies One in 3,000 people in the world has some form of hereditary retinal dystrophy, one of the rare diseases with the highest incidence in the population. So far, a total of 90 genes associated with retinitis pigmentosa have been identified, but there are more than 300 genes that can affect vision. "It is decisive to be able to make a good genetic diagnosis of patients and identify the gene that causes the disease. We now know that about 3% of patients with retinitis pigmentosa in Spain have mutations in the CERKL gene," says Marfany. "A good part of the efforts in rare vision diseases is focused precisely on this genetic diagnosis of patients, but to understand the physiological effect of these mutations it is necessary to analyze what happens in the cells of the retina." Identifying the gene that causes the disease and its physiological function are the cornerstones for designing a precision or personalized therapy. In the case of gene therapy, it is usually expensivein time and moneyand only accessible to a limited number of patients. "Now, if we know better which pathways are altered when the CERKL gene is absent, we can think about how to compensate for these pathways: for example, with drugs that can act on these metabolic pathways and restore the correct functioning of retinal neurons and return to a more homeostatic state. This type of therapeutic approach is much more affordable, and if it slows down the progression of the disease, it could benefit many patients." The UB Research Group on Human Molecular Genetics has an outstanding track record of more than 25 years in the study of the genetic basis of vision diseases. It was the leading team in identifying an unknown geneCERKLas the cause of retinitis pigmentosa (The American Journal of Human Genetics, 2004) in a study of a family with several affected children. "Our team continues to work to try to understand how mutations in the CERKL gene cause photoreceptor death in patients. In the future, we want to generate new models of the disease with human retinal organoids, and design precision therapy strategiesgene therapy and also with drugsbased on molecules that allow us to reverse the most severe symptoms of the disease," says Marfany. 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 social media campaign launched in 2022 helped encourage some Nigerians to roll up their sleeves for a COVID vaccine, according to a new study published Sept. 15. The paper, "Outcomes of a social media campaign to promote COVID-19 vaccination in Nigeria," was published Sept. 15 in the journal PLOS ONE. "Our research suggests that a social media campaign can reduce vaccine hesitancy and increase the vaccination rates in Nigeria and possibly other low-income countries," said Doug Evans, the lead author of the paper and a professor of prevention and community health at the George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health. The COVID pandemic has been a challenge for public health officials in Nigeria and other low and middle income countries where misinformation and hesitancy about the safety of the vaccines has slowed uptake of the protective shots. Evans and his colleagues designed and executed a large-scale social media campaign and launched it in six Nigerian states. The team compared Nigerian vaccination rates over a ten month period in states where the campaign ran to those in control states. The team concluded that the campaign produced measurable and meaningful positive effects on social norms around vaccination and vaccination status. The team also noted that the use of a social media campaign, and social media based data collection, may prove to be an important innovation that has great potential in future public health research. Evans says the study findings may also apply in the United States or other settings. "A social media campaign based on an influencer model could be used to combat vaccine hesitancy in the U.S. and anywhere there is high social media usage," he says. More information: W. Douglas Evans et al, Outcomes of a social media campaign to promote COVID-19 vaccination in Nigeria, PLOS ONE (2023). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290757 Journal information: PLoS ONE 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: University at Buffalo Students at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine applied the science behind why water beads up on lotus leaves to solve a pesky problem that arose during the coronavirus pandemic. Under the direction of Praveen Arany, Ph.D., associate professor of oral biology, the students created free face shields and comfort bands as a type of personal protective equipment (PPE) with 3D printers that were eventually used by some 3,000 dental professionals in university centers across the country. First, however, the students had to figure out how to prevent the shields from fogging up, which makes it hard for wearers to see. Commercially available anti-fogging solutions found in eyeglasses and car exteriors were not suitable due to their potential to irritate the skin or cause sickness if inhaled or ingested, Arany explained. Lotus leaves provided a eureka moment for the researchers. "The hydrophobic nanostructure keeps water from being absorbed in the leaves," Arany explained. "They float and secrete a natural wax." After looking at several formulations of wax that would keep the PPEs clear and non-toxic, the research team discovered that a combination of carnauba and beeswax created optimal results. "With a couple of adjustments, the condensation just rolled off," Arany said. The researchers' discovery is explained in a paper published Aug. 28 in Peer J Materials Science and authored by students Succhay Gadhar, Shaina Chechang and Philip Sales, with Arany. The idea for the project came about because dentists needed clear shields that also could accommodate dental loupes, the magnifying glasses they wear while examining patients' mouths. The dental school's 3D printers, which had previously been used to create and investigate medication-filled 3D-printed dentures, smart fillings and bone regenerative scaffolds, were sitting idle once the pandemic hit. "The strategy was to create something like N-95 masks that were transparent," Arany said. "The pandemic, with its need for protective masks and suits, exacerbated the fear that some people have of dentists. Because of the opaque nature of the masks, nonverbal cues were missing." Students started working with Arany in spring 2020, and they continued to perfect them over the next year, including solving the fogging issue. They also discovered that isopropyl alcohol provided the best disinfectant for the reusable shields that wouldn't disrupt the anti-fogging agents and figured out how to shape the masks at a slight angle so that the edge wouldn't hurt the wearer's face. Remarkably, Gadhar, one of the primary researchers, was a student at Williamsville North High School (Amherst, New York) at the time. He read about the PPE project in the local news and wanted to help rectify the condensation problem, Arany said. Through a largely online collaboration, he was invited to join the research team and came up with the exact formulations that were eventually tested in the lab. He's now a biomedical engineering student at the University of Texas at Austin. Chechang, who was a third-year dental student and is now an oral surgery intern at the University of Chicago, performed the sterilization studies based on her ongoing clinical use of the PPEs. Sales, then a master's student in biological sciences and now a second-year dental student at UB, led the 3D printing design and manufacturing that took place in Foster Hall on the South Campus. Jaewon Kim, a former periodontics resident who now serves as an assistant clinical professor at the University of Oklahoma's College of Dentistry, and Jacob Graca, then a third-year dental student who is now a practicing general dentist in Redondo Beach, Calif., also made key contributions to the study. A total of 20 students contributed to the research and the 3D printing, along with designing and operating a PPE website and manufacturing and delivering the PPE devices. They received emergency-use authorization approval from the Food and Drug Administration to make and disseminate the face shields. Along with the dental professionals who benefited from the free face shields, health professionals at Buffalo General Medical Center and Oishei Children's Hospital also used them during the pandemic. "This was a great learning experience for my students and for me," Arany said. "The masks were really needed, and we were thrilled to be assisting our clinical colleagues during this critical time." Although clinical professionals are currently not required to wear PPEs, this could change if spread of the new coronavirus variant, BA.2.86, results in health care settings adopting stricter cautionary measures. "The design principles are there," Arany said. "It's something we could manufacture again if and when needed." More information: Succhay Gadhar et al, Durability and physical characterization of anti-fogging solution for 3D-printed clear masks and face shields, PeerJ Materials Science (2023). DOI: 10.7717/peerj-matsci.30 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Effect of former President Trump's election on well-child visits (flexible adherence) among immigrant compared with US-born families in the post-period, 20152018. Source: Authors analysis of Children's HealthWatch data, 20152018. Credit: Health Affairs Scholar (2023). DOI: 10.1093/haschl/qxad023 A new study shows that well-child visits for children with immigrant mothers in the US declined following Trump's hostile public stances on migration during his presidential campaign and presidency. Immigration was a defining issue of Donald Trump's campaign and presidency, and his well-documented embrace of xenophobic and racist rhetoric and policies during his administration led many immigrant families to fear for their safety and immigration status in the US. Trump's anti-immigrant agenda also contributed to a decline in the number of immigrant parents who sought preventative health care for their children, according to a new study led by a Boston University School of Public Health (BUSPH) researcher. Published in the journal Health Affairs Scholar, the study found that Trump's election was associated with a five-percentage-point decrease in well-child visits for children of immigrant mothers, compared to children of US-born mothers. The study is the first to examine whether the avoidance of social services or health care as a result of immigration status-related fearsknown as the "chilling effect"affected health care utilization among very young children in the US. The new findings suggest that young children of immigrants may have missed vital routine or preventative pediatric care, such as early childhood vaccinations and health and developmental screenings, during the Trump administration. "We found that Trump's rhetoric and election were already driving parents' decisions about seeking preventive health care for their young children, even before some of these policies were implemented," says study lead and corresponding author Dr. Stephanie Ettinger de Cuba, research associate professor of health law, policy & management and pediatrics at BUSPH and Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine. "Missing well-child visits is deeply worrisome since so many vital health and development checks and referrals happen at these visits, where waiting could mean long-term harms to health or developmental delays. In addition, parents miss out on support and connections to other resources, which could potentially compound existing inequities." For the study, Dr. Ettinger de Cuba and colleagues from Boston Medical Center (BMC), BU Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston University School of Social Work (SSW), and Hennepin Health care and the University of Minnesota School of Medicine (UM) analyzed health and health care survey and electronic health record data from Children's HealthWatch (CHW) pertaining to nearly 11,000 children of immigrant and US-born parents or caregivers in three US cities (Boston, Minneapolis, and Little Rock, Ark.). The study period took place between 20152018, during the Trump campaign and the early months of his presidency. During this time, the Trump administration implemented a slew of anti-immigrant policies and executive actions such as travel bans on travelers from several Muslim-majority countries, a dramatic increase in interior immigration enforcement, and unprecedented restrictions for asylum seekers at the US-Mexico border. The team examined patterns of well-child visits, based on routine care schedules recommended for children between infancy and four years old. The number of well-child visits for children with immigrant mothers dropped from 54 percent prior to the 2016 election to nearly 49 percent by 2017a 9-percent relative decreasecompared to no change among US-born families, after Trump assumed office. The researchers also conducted a secondary analysis of a chilling effect on children of immigrant mothers following the well-publicized leak of the administration's plan to dramatically expand the public programs considered as part of the "public charge" rule, a rule that examines whether the person is likely to be primarily dependent on the government, which in turn can be grounds for denying a green card. Although the administration ultimately did not adopt the specific changes in the leaked document, the study results suggest that even the possibility of the policy change likely contributed to greater decreases in immigrant parents' adherence to early childhood well-child visits. The team also investigated whether Trump's election contributed to a decline in emergency department visits and hospitalizations among children with immigrant mothers but found no association. The researchers hope their study calls attention to the real-life consequences of inflammatory and dangerous campaign rhetoric and government policies. "These results underscore the need for changes to both laws and regulations that recognize the individual and societal impact of ensuring immigrant families can meet all of their basic needs, including health care, without fear," says Dr. Ettinger de Cuba. Current legislation, such as the federal HEAL Act and the LIFT the BAR Act, would go a long way to reducing fear, she says, and the findings underscore why recent attempts to reinstate the Trump-era definition of public charge are so harmful, even as proposals. "Words matter and have real-life consequences in campaigns and governance," Dr. Ettinger de Cuba says. "Much more work is needed to rebuild trust in immigrant communities." The study's senior author is the late David Jones, professor of health law, policy & management at BUSPH. More information: Stephanie Ettinger de Cuba et al, Reduced health care utilization among young children of immigrants after Donald Trump's election and proposed public charge rule, Health Affairs Scholar (2023). DOI: 10.1093/haschl/qxad023 If you've ever screamed in frustration while trying to file for unemployment insurance benefits from the Montana Department of Labor and Industry's website, this week's announcement of a new interface is good news. On Thursday, state officials announced that they've revamped the old, unwieldy system and will launch it in a couple weeks. The headaches caused by the existing interface are no secret: Even the state's website acknowledges that "Montana is modernizing its Unemployment Insurance Systems." There will be a period of a few days when the whole system goes dark so that the change can happen. All unemployment insurance services including the Claims Processing Phone Center phone line will be unavailable from Thursday, September 28, after 5 p.m. until Monday, October 2, by 8 a.m.. "After months of development, Montana Unemployment Insurance will be launching a brand-new UI system for claimants," the state's press release said. "This new system will provide a modern, intuitive user experience, with new features to help claimants, more reliability, and less system down time. The system will go live October 2, 2023." When someone is laid off or furloughed in Montana, they've had to go through a labyrinthine system to get the money they're eligible for. Now, the state says the "look and navigation" of the new unemployment insurance Claimant Center will be different, but none of the requirements for unemployment eligibility are changing. All existing account information will be transferred over to the new benefits system. Anyone with an existing MontanaWorks account can still use that email address to log into the new benefit system. A request for comment from Montana Department of Labor and Industry commissioner Sarah Swanson was not returned by press time on Monday. The University of Montanas new student advocacy director hopes to expand the offices reach around campus and demonstrate the necessity of violence prevention work. I want to make sure that all students know were available, said Aislinn Addington, UMs new Student Advocacy Resource Center director. Addington took over the post in February. The SARC office serves as a hub for UMs students to report violence and harassment in a confidential, free environment. Its complex enough to be a student, Addington said. But to be a student going through a difficult or traumatic experience, being a student going through a campus or criminal process, is potentially overwhelming. I want to be able to provide that support and participate in a culture change. My goal is for folks to be tired of us because were everywhere. Additionally, she wants to participate in a campus needs assessment to better understand what the barriers to accessing SARC are. Reporting violence to SARC doesnt automatically trigger a criminal investigation. Rather, it puts survivors in control of how they want their case handled. Demystifying the reporting process is also a part of that work, Addington said, and something she plans on prioritizing. Addington oversees two professional staff positions, along with a handful of graduate interns and undergraduate volunteers. She hopes to add a full-time preventionist whose job would be around-the-clock violence prevention work. To me, prevention and response are on a continuum theyre intertwined, she said. The response work we do here informs the prevention that we do. When asked what she can do to ensure everyone at UM feels safe reporting violence at SARC, Addington said the office takes a trauma-informed, survivor-centered approach. Were not going to make any decisions for a student but we want to make sure they understand all the options available and make the choice best for them, Addington said. Addington hails from western Montana. She grew up in Bonner and went to high school in Missoula. She left Montana for several years to work in other states, but she wanted to find a way to do violence prevention work with the UM community. She attended the University of Kansas for her masters degree and PhD. While working on her dissertation, Addington thought more about doing student affairs, prevention and response work on campuses. She also served as the director of the Gender Equity Center at Western Oregon University for four years. In February 2020 Addington took a position working for Oregon Attorney Generals Sexual Assault Task Force. In that role Addington provided training and technical assistance to campuses across Oregon for their advocacy programs. Gender justice work had always been a throughline in the other things I was doing, Addington said. SARCs former director Jen Euell, left last fall to take the Executive Director post at Missoulas YWCA. The office is located in the UM Curry Health Center. The SARC 24-hour support line number is 406-243-6559. That first step was a dilly (Monday, Sept. 17, 1973) The Burke County Sheriffs Office lost a prisoner in 25th District Court on Friday. A few people remarked afterward that if any defendant deserves his freedom, the escapee certainly earned it. The prisoner was appearing in court on felony charges of breaking and entering and larceny when he told the bailiff he needed to use the bathroom. The bailiff directed the prisoner to the bathroom in the back of the courtroom, which is on the second floor of the courthouse. The prisoner allegedly escaped through the open window of the bathroom and jumped to the ground about 25-30 feet below, landing partially on the concrete walkway and partially on the grass. Witnesses who saw the jump said he appeared slightly stunned when he hit the ground, but got up and limped across the courtyard and was not seen again. Deputies believe a female accomplice picked him up in a car and drove away. They are still searching for the suspect. Rescue squad wins award (Monday, Sept. 17, 1973) The Burke County Rescue Squad received the plaque for Rescue of the Year during the annual convention of the North Carolina Association of Rescue Squads over the weekend in Asheville. The award was given as a result of a cooperative effort between the Burke group and the McDowell and Avery County rescue squads in removing a woman with a broken leg from Linville Gorge last July 7. The rescue effort began when Janet Hughes, 25, of Charlotte, fell on a slippery rock and was immobilized by a broken leg on the Linville River at the bottom of Sandy Flats Trail, a rugged wilderness area in northwestern Burke County. Squad members found her lying on a rock in the middle of the river. They splinted her leg, lashed her to a ladder and carried her with ropes across the treacherous current to shore. They then carried her downriver about of a mile to the Spruce River Trail. There, they crossed the river and hauled her up the side of the gorge, where emergency personnel were waiting to transport her to Grace Hospital. Ervin Hennessee, chief of the Burke unit, received the plaque during a banquet held Saturday evening from Elwood Inscoe, deputy commissioner of the fire and rescue services division of the North Carolina Department of Insurance. New home to serve troubled girls (Wednesday, Sept. 19, 1973) The Bringing it All Back Home project and day care center are now ready to go, the Burke County Board of Social Services was advised at its meeting Tuesday. Trouble in finding a suitable home for the project caused a delay, but Tuesday, the board approved a lease agreement for a house at 206 Patterson St. in Morganton. The social services board, along with the Rev. John McCoy and L.S. Inscoe, serve as the advisory board for this project, which will provide a group home for girls ages 9-16 who have problems. The home will serve as a treatment unit with a specially trained couple in charge. The project is set to begin after repairs are made to the home and a couple is hired to supervise the girls. Gary Timbers, project director, said he has received several applications for the position of home parents. Two couples deemed most suitable will be interviewed by the board at a special meeting. Funding for the project comes from the Appalachian Regional Commission, LEAA and the county. Timbers expects the group to be in operation within the next 30 days. New center serves children with disabilities (Thursday, Sept. 20, 1973) The United Cerebral Palsy Development Center of Morganton has a new location and a new director, and is in the process of developing a new program to serve children with cerebral palsy and other disabilities. The center, formerly known as the Burke Day School, moved from the Grace Episcopal parish house this summer to its current location at the Church of Christ on Lenoir Road next to Kirksey Funeral Home. Children enrolled at the center are involved in a pre-primary readiness program in preparation for other educational activities. Edward Hatley, a speech therapist with a bachelors degree in speech pathology from Appalachian State University, has taken over as director of the center. We serve basically as a pre-primary developmental center, providing education, physical and/or speech therapies in a day care setting, Hatley said. We can take children ages 3-10 who do not require custodial care. The last of three men connected to a Mexican drug-trafficking organization was convicted for his involvement in bringing cocaine and heroin into and through Catawba County. Juan Olmos, 56, of Claremont, was given an active prison term of three to four years after pleading guilty to conspiracy to traffic cocaine by the Superior Court Judge Gregory R. Hayes, from Catawba County, on Monday, according to the Office of District Attorney Scott Reilly. Olmos will serve his sentence in the custody of the N.C. Division of Adult Corrections and will have to pay a mandatory fine of $50,000. Two other co-defendants were also previously sentenced to active prison terms for their involvement in the drug-trafficking operation. Jesus Alejandro Estrada Arellano, 35, of Claremont, and Michael Wayne Proffitt, 39, of Taylorsville, were sentenced to active prison terms following their guilty pleas tied to the drug trafficking matters. Superior Court Judge Nathaniel J. Poovey, from Catawba County, handed down the prison sentences for Arellano and Proffitt, according to the DA's office. Arellano was given an active prison sentence of 11 to 15 years following his conviction for conspiracy to traffic cocaine and conspiracy to traffic heroin on June 1, 2020. He was required to pay mandatory fines of $100,000 for the cocaine charge and $50,000 for the heroin charge. Arellano, who also goes by the alias of Jose Luis Garcia, has a detainer with Immigration and Customs Enforcement, ICE, and is subject to be deported to Mexico upon his release from prison. Proffitt, 36, received an active prison term of six to eight years after his conviction for trafficking cocaine by transportation on June 2, 2020. He also was required to pay a mandatory fine of $100,000. Arellano and Proffitt are serving their prison terms in the custody of the N.C. Division of Adult Corrections. Investigation of the cases dates back to 2018 and involves the Catawba County Sheriff's Office, Hickory Police Department, Burke County Sheriff's Office, Alexander County Sheriff's Office, the State Bureau of Investigation and agents with the Drug Enforcement Agency from Charlotte, Greensboro and Raleigh. With the use of a wiretap, investigators were able to intercept transmissions via text and phone between Arellano and others discussing the transport of illegal narcotics. Through those transmissions, it was determined that Estrada Arellano was coordinating the sale and delivery of heroin and cocaine in the conspiracy. When arrested, Arellano admitted to investigators that he was involved in the coordination of the sale and pickup of the drugs. Through the wiretap, investigators learned that Proffitt transported the cocaine shipments coming into Catawba County for Arellano. He picked up drugs or money and moved them to various locations, often taking them to other parts of North Carolina or other states. Proffitt was arrested by investigators after agreeing to pick up and drive a vehicle for Arellano. Officers conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle driven by Proffitt and found 18 kilograms of cocaine inside. Proffitt admitted he worked for Arellano, picking up and dropping off vehicles at various locations. Using the wiretap, investigators were able to determine that Olmos was involved by picking up cars and transporting them to make drug sales and, or collect cash. He also admitted in an interview with investigators that he sold cocaine to an undercover officer on two occasions. Jessica Phillips prosecuted the cases for the District Attorney's Office with assistance from legal assistant Dea Crowe. BOSTON Boston firefighter Daniel Ranahan had heard about colleagues getting cancer but he was stunned when doctors discovered a tumor in his chest. He was only 30 and had been in the Boston Fire Department less than a decade. But as he investigated his diagnosis of Hodgkins lymphoma in October 2020 and sought successful treatment, he learned he and others wore gear that contained the toxic industrial compound PFAS. You always hear about the dangers. You just never think it's going be you, said Ranahan, who stopped working due to the cancer and is among thousands of firefighters nationwide who sued PFAS manufacturers and companies that make firefighting gear and foam, seeking damages for their exposure. These guys put this on day in and day out to protect neighborhoods and wherever they are working," he said. The Associated Press was not given access to his doctors due to the ongoing litigation, making it difficult to independently verify his claims. The multilayered coats and pants worn by firefighters have become the latest battleground over PFAS, or per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances. It's found in everything from food packaging to clothing and is associated with health problems including several types of cancer. In March, the Environmental Protection Agency for the first time proposed limits on the chemicals in drinking water. The news that PFAS compounds are in their gear primarily meant to repel water and contaminants like oil and prevent moisture-related burns is worrisome to firefighters. The International Association of Fire Fighters or IAFF says that cancer has replaced heart disease as the biggest cause of line-of duty deaths. Firefighters have been shown to be at higher risk than the general population of getting several types of cancer. Firefighters are exposed to a laundry list of carcinogens coming from fires burning hotter and faster than ever before often due to increased petroleum products in homes. But as they learn more about PFAS, firefighters have grown suspicious that their personal protective equipment or PPE is sickening them. We had no idea that the gear that we were putting on every day was essentially loaded with PFAS, said IAFF General President Edward Kelly, who was elected in 2021 on a campaign in part to address dangers of PFAS in gear. Sam Dillon, president of Boston Firefighters, Local 718, said the union had to act. When we break it down, the problem to us becomes very simple, he said. There is proven science that PFAS is a known carcinogen. There is also proven science that PFAS is in protective gear that firefighters wear. So when its brought to our attention that there is a known carcinogen in the protective ensemble that our members wear, it is grave concern to the union and it's our job to address that issue. One defendant in the lawsuits, 3M Co., said in a statement that it manufactures a variety of personal protective equipment products that meet nationally recognized standards to help protect first responders facing high-hazard environments. Last year, the company announced it would stop manufacturing PFAS by the end of 2025 and would work to discontinue using the chemicals in its products. Another defendant, W. L. Gore & Associates, says the PFAS compound PTFE used in its clothing is nontoxic and safe. Based on the body of available and reliable science, Gore concludes its firefighting products are not the cause of cancers impacting firefighters, who by the nature of their important work are sometimes exposed to cancer-causing chemicals from fires, said company spokesperson Amy Calhoun. The American Chemistry Council said in a statement that PFAS-based materials are the only viable options for some key equipment that meet the vital performance properties required for firefighting gear. The PFAS has been in the gear for decades. But the wife of retired Worcester, Massachusetts fire lieutenant Paul Cotter who had cancer raised concerns about PFAS in gear in 2016. Until then, many firefighters had not heard of PFAS or did not know it was in their gear. Gear makers told Diane Cotter there were only trace amounts of PFAS and it was safe. I was attacked by firefighters when discussing the idea that chemicals in the gear could be causing cancer, she said. Cotter sent patches of gear to Graham Peaslee, a University of Notre Dame professor who studies PFAS, for testing. It was loaded with PFAS. That was the first eye opening moment that there may be more than just trace amounts, said Peaslee, who also found the chemicals on gloves and in firehouse dust. "They come off and they pose risks, he said. Courtney Carignan, an exposure scientist and epidemiologist at Michigan State University, said she found PFAS at twice the levels of the general population in the blood of more than half of the 18 firefighters she tested in Nantucket and Fall River, Massachusetts. She also found PFAS in gear was transferred to the skin of firefighters. But Carignan is still investigating how much the gear contributed to increased levels of PFAS in the blood and whether PFAS exposure may be causing or contributing to cancer. "Even though we know PFAS is in the gear, we still dont know how much exposure that is," she said. Janet Thai, a detective in the state Attorney General's office and president of the New Jersey Asian American Law Enforcement Officers Association, in Cedar Knolls on July 10,2023. Alexandra Pais | For NJ Advance Media (Alexandra Pais | For NJ Advance Media/Alexandra Pais | For NJ Advance ) Janet Thai grew up thinking she would become a doctor, lawyer or pharmacist because those were the three professions that had parental approval. But after a stint in the U.S. Marines Corp., she went off script. She was attracted to a career that emphasized discipline, rigidity and structure while providing her with the sisterhood she experienced in the six years she spent as a motor transport mechanic in the Marines. She opted to become a cop. It was a lonely path at first. As a young Asian American detective working for the Division of Criminal Justice at the Office of the Attorney General, Thai didnt see many other officers like her. That was until she met retired Port Authority Police Detective Robert May, founder of the New Jersey Asian American Law Enforcement Officers Association (NJAALEOA), and the other officers in the association. The moment I met them, I had an epiphany. Oh, wow! Hold on, Im not the only one out there there are others like me, Thai recounted. Established in 1998 by May, who is now the president emeritus of the association, the NJAALEOA was created to recruit Asian Americans into law enforcement and to foster a spirit of camaraderie among Asian Americans in uniform. With 120 members both sworn officers and supportive citizens from local, state and federal agencies across the state, the association carries out this vision through various community outreach and charity events, including donation drives after Hurricane Katrina and informational sessions with the New York Police Departments Hate Crime Unit to fight COVID-induced anti-Asian violence. Dont miss an issue of our Mosaic newsletter! Get it delivered each Tuesday right into your inbox by adding your email below and hitting "subscribe." May says the group started out of necessity. Back in the 80s, there were organizations for Black officers, Hispanic officers, Irish officers, but absolutely none for Asian officers in the state of New Jersey, says May. I only dreamt of an organization that was actually inclusive of people of Asian descent. New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin and Chief Diversity Officer Lora Fong with the New Jersey Asian American Law Enforcement Officers Association's executive board at the Annual 2023 Outreach and Recruitment Picnic. (handout photo courtesy Janet Thai) Now, as the elected president of the NJAALEOA, Thai hopes to continue this vision through a new generation of Asian American officers who are community-minded and cognizant of their cultural roots. To know who we are and bring that into what we do is a critical step to perfecting our craft, Thai said. Some of us get our identities from our vocation, but if we zoom out and understand what makes us unique as a person, we can incorporate that into our job, making us and our team so much stronger. For example, she says, members share everything: resources, knowledge, experience and work connections. Were able to do that, and want to do that, because we dont fear what we will lose out on. We acknowledge and celebrate what we gain. Our strength gives way to better officers, better policies/procedures, and a better way. Which means we all win, Thai says. Thai came to this realization in recent decades as law enforcement departments have come under fire for their sometimes problematic relationships with an increasingly diverse public. As a result, departments have worked harder to recruit more officers from communities of color. Finding recruits in the Asian American community has always been difficult. Constituting 11% of New Jerseys population and growing at the fastest rate among other ethnic groups, Asian Americans comprise just 2% of police forces across the state, making them one of the most underrepresented ethnic groups in law enforcement. Asian American women make up just 0.11 percent of law enforcement agencies. We need more Asian Americans in law enforcement, May said. Why? Because youre unique. Youll have to do 150%, but its a unique experience that youll cherish with your multicultural identity. Its good for the Asian face. President Emeritus Robert May celebrating at the 20th Anniversary NJAALEOA gala in 2017. May is a retired NY/NJ Port Authority Police detective. (handout courtesy Janet Thai) Having worked in law enforcement since the 1980s, May has had many experiences that his fellow officers havent faced, including encountering racist and xenophobic comments regularly. He says he learned to deal with these incidents with humor and composure. Sometimes, you have to learn to take a little gruff, May says. When I started working in New Jersey, I found out that the grass was not greener on the other side of the river. You have to be level-headed and take it with a grain of salt so that you can do your job well. Racism and sexism still persist, Thai says, both within the ranks of law enforcement and in the community that she polices. The prejudice stems from a lack of empathy and knowledge of the diverse communities that make up New Jersey. As a law enforcement officer, youll sometimes hear off-color jokes and jabs that are meant in jest but can poke fun at something that can be very triggering, Thai said. The best way Ive learned to approach this is with compassion and love through sharing my own experience and culture. Because sometimes its just a matter of them not knowing what you know. New Jersey State Police Recruitment Unit and NJAALEOA Executive Advisor Jamie Yeh. These two organizations have had a partnership for 10 years. (handout courtesy Janet Thai) During difficult times, Thai says she turns to the heartwarming experiences shes had as a detective, times when she has been a role model for younger generations. One of her favorite memories is from her early years as a detective when a young Asian American girl approached her at a community outreach event. Having never seen an Asian American woman in uniform, the young girl ran to her with open arms and yelled, When I grow up, I wanna be just like you! Moments like these make you realize that law enforcement is my true calling, Thai said. Its what Im meant to do, and it keeps me going through all the tough times. Charity events, community-wide conversations about race and training initiatives will help law enforcement agencies across the state learn more about the Asian American community, Thai said. The NJAALEOA, under her leadership, is working to turn Mays dream of a community-driven organization for Asian Americans into a reality, steering the field of law enforcement in the direction of inclusivity. Were not an organization that seeks to divide us from the community, Thai said. In this day and age, thats the exact opposite of what we need. Were about bringing people together, uplifting, and inspiring each other. Because at the end of the day, were all in it together. Kyler Zhou is a freelance writer and Princeton University student. Welcome to Mosaic. Follow us on Instagram at @MosaicNJcom and on Facebook at MosaicNJcom. A Butte police officer has been charged with misdemeanor partner-family member assault for allegedly punching holes in a wall and yelling at a woman during a recent argument. Prosecutors say 33-year-old Donald Lewis Jr. also turned off power to the residence during the incident with his partner on Aug. 31. He was arrested and pleaded not guilty during an initial court appearance the next day. Charles McIntosh, a Butte attorney representing Lewis in the case, said Monday he had no comment. Sheriff Ed Lester said Monday that Lewis is on unpaid administrative leave and after Butte officers arrested Lewis, Lester transferred the matter to the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation in the Montana Attorney Generals Office for investigation. That is commonly done to eliminate any potential conflicts of interest when local police are accused of criminal wrongdoing in Montana. Along those same lines, Butte City Court Judge Jerome McCarthy has asked a Justice Court judge in Anaconda to oversee the case and Mike Clague, a state prosecutor in Butte-Silver Bow County, wants the Montana AGs office to prosecute the case. Clague has asked Butte-Silver Bow commissioners to approve a resolution Wednesday night authorizing the move. If they do, the AGs office would appoint a special deputy prosecutor to handle the case. Lewis joined Butte-Silver Bow Law Enforcement in 2018, according to its Facebook page, and graduated from the Montana Law Enforcement Academy in 2019. He is the second Butte officer in the past two years accused of partner-family member assault. Benjamin Rauch, a Butte officer for 16 years, was accused of assaulting a female family member on Jan. 3, 2022. He was initially charged with felony strangulation of a family member but ultimately pleaded guilty to first offense misdemeanor assault. A judge from an outside district oversaw the case and on Jan. 26, he gave Rauch a one-year deferred sentence and ordered 40 hours of counseling. Rauch had been suspended without pay for some time, and his employment with Butte Police ended Feb. 16. These incidents are a huge concern to me, Lester said Monday. When an incident involving an officer or other staff member occurs, we handle it in a thorough and professional manner. For criminal matters, we generally request assistance from the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation and the Montana Attorney Generals Office. Clague filed the misdemeanor assault charge against Lewis on Sept. 1 in Butte City Court. It says Lewis purposefully or knowingly caused a partner reasonable apprehension of bodily injury by punching holes in the wall, turning off power to the residence and yelling at her during an argument. It provides no other details. The charge carries a maximum sentence of one year in jail and a fine of at least $100 but no more than $1,000. A status hearing in the case is set for Dec. 6. Believe me, I dont enjoy dealing with these incidents, but the mission of this department has to come first, and our citizens have to know that our officers are conducting themselves appropriately, Lester said. UNITED NATIONS The 193 member countries of the United Nations on Monday adopted a declaration to reaffirm their commitment to the stalled Sustainable Development Goals. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres tried Monday as world leaders gathered in New York to kick-start action to achieve the 17 goals adopted by world leaders in 2015, which developing countries in particular consider crucial to closing the widening inequality gap between the worlds rich and poor countries. Those commitments were far-reaching and ambitious. Among them: End extreme poverty and hunger. Ensure every child on Earth gets a quality secondary education. Achieve gender equality. Make significant inroads in tackling climate change. Create universal access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all. And achieve all of this by 2030. Halfway to that goal, progress is lagging badly and in some cases going backward. Guterres told leaders in the crowded General Assembly hall they made a promise to build a world of health, progress and opportunity for all a promise to leave no one behind, and a promise to pay for it. The 10-page political declaration was adopted unanimously Monday, a day before the start of the UN General Assembly's General Debate, which will see speeches by leaders from across the world. A group of states led by Russia had threatened to block the declaration but ultimately did not follow up on their threat. Guterres said that Monday's declaration could be a game-changer in accelerating SDG progress. The SDGs need a global rescue plan, he said. He called the summit the moment for governments to come to the table with concrete plans and proposals to accelerate progress. It isnt just governments that need to step up, Guterres said. He urged activists as well as the business community, scientists, academics, innovators, women and young people to join in working to achieve the goals. The declaration includes a commitment to financing for developing countries and clear support for a stimulus package worth at least $500 billion annually. However, the coronavirus pandemic, the Ukraine war and a debt crisis in poor countries have set the goals back. According to the UN, if things continue as they are, 575 million people will still be living in extreme poverty and more than 600 million living in hunger in 2030. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz urged more effort to achieve the goals. We see that the progress we wished for the whole world has slowed down in the fight against poverty and for better coexistence, that we have not achieved as many improvements as we wished for, he said. But this is a reason for us to take all the more care that we achieve this necessary progress. In light of competition with China and Russia for the favor of the so-called Global South, many Western industrialized nations have recently shown themselves open to making far-reaching concessions. General Assembly President Dennis Francis told the assembled leaders that the fact that we are lagging in our promise cannot be the death knell for our blueprint to banish poverty from our societies, protect and preserve our planet, and to ensure prosperity for all. Instead, he said, bold and transformative action must be prioritized. Guterres told Mondays opening session he was deeply encouraged by the political declaration, especially its commitment to improving developing countries access to the fuel required for SDG progress: finance. The U.N. chief said it also includes a call to reform the outdated and dysfunctional international financial system and to change the business model so multilateral; development banks, like the World Bank, can massively leverage private finance at affordable rates to benefit developing countries. Heads of state and government from at least 145 countries are expected to take the dais at the 78th summit. Among them will be Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, U.S. President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy all expected in the first day. This will be Zelenskyy's first in-person appearance at the United Nations since the Russian invasion of his country in 2022, the General Assembly voted to grant him special dispensation to submit a prerecorded speech. But the parade of speakers will be marked by some key absences: While they're all sending representatives, the leaders of the rest of the permanent U.N. Security Council members France, the United Kingdom, China and Russia will not make the trip. The presence of Vladimir Putin would certainly have been surprising, but Emmanuel Macron is a regular attendee and this would have been British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's first opportunity to address the General Assembly. Macron cited King Charles III's imminent visit; Sunak, a busy schedule. Top leaders from other major countries, including India who just played host to the G20 summit in New Delhi this month and Mexico, are also slated to send ministers in their steads. The Associated Press and Tribune News Service contributed to this report. Danson Mukile, a dynamic entrepreneur and avionics tech engineer based in the US, has emerged as a prominent advocate for Kenyan expatriates. He offers valuable perspectives on innovation, the significance of networking, and the pursuit of skills aligned with the evolving job market. Start by explaining what avionics tech engineering entails Avionics engineers are professionals specialised in designs and programmes that provide computer system support for various onboard communication and navigation systems in implementing electrical systems for aircraft and aerospace mechanicals such as satellites. I also have a keen eye for innovation and seek to promote the active participation of Kenyans living abroad in the development of our country, including a push towards remittance of taxes through actionable strategies. What did your recent meeting with the president abroad mean to you? Meeting President Ruto gave me an opportunity to offer my expertise on policies derived from the Diaspora manifesto, which has now been adopted as a policy document in the State Department for Diaspora Affairs. Having discussions with him in multiple meet-ups gave me a moment of recognition and appreciation in the diaspora community to articulate their issues to the Head of State. It also provided me with networking opportunities. I have had a chance to dine with people I never imagined I could share a table with. I networked with the presidents advisors and have built a lasting relationship with them. What are some of the critical lessons a young entrepreneur needs to grasp? Be prepared to adapt to changing market conditions and evolving customer preferences. Also, one needs to innovate to stay ahead of the competition and remain relevant in the industry. A young entrepreneur must develop strong communication skills, both written and verbal. As a young businessman, your ability to articulate your vision, goals, and expectations is critical. Lead by example and inspire your team through effective leadership. How do you maintain a good public image and strike work-life balance? It all boils down to ethical business practices. Always conduct your business with integrity. Building a reputation for honesty and ethical conduct is essential for long-term success and trust with customers, partners, and employees. Also, do not forget to pay your taxes. Effective time management is key to balancing the demands of entrepreneurship. Prioritise tasks, delegate when necessary and make time for your personal life and well-being. They say change is the only constant thing. Never stop learning. Stay curious and committed to learning. The business landscape is constantly evolving, and staying informed about industry trends, new technologies, and emerging opportunities is crucial. When it comes to career opportunities, where should one look right now? The technology sector continues to offer abundant opportunities for young professionals. Roles in software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and web development are in high demand. I should also stress that starting a business or joining a startup can be a rewarding path for young entrepreneurs. Look for gaps in the market, and innovative with unique solutions. Does this touch on e-commerce and digital content creation? It does. The growth of online retail and digital marketing has created numerous job opportunities in areas such as e-commerce management, digital advertising, content creation, and social media marketing. The government-driven Talanta Hela programme, for example, gives hope to young entrepreneurs. The finance sector continues to evolve with the rise of fintech (financial technology). Opportunities exist in areas like financial analysis, cryptocurrency, investment banking, and financial planning. There is a lot of talk around healthcare, renewable energy and environmental issues in this new career order. The healthcare industry offers various career options, including healthcare administration, nursing, medical research and pharmaceuticals. With the ageing population in many countries abroad, there is a growing need for healthcare professionals. Careers in sustainability, renewable energy, and environmental conservation are on the rise. What is your take on the creative industry and education technology as well? Freelancing and entrepreneurship are common paths in these areas, which many young people in Kenya have not explored. When it comes to e-education, the opportunities include teaching, instructional design, educational technology development and online tutoring. President William Ruto has said Kenya is committed to attracting quality foreign investments in the country. He noted that the Government is pursuing ambitious reforms that will turn Kenya into a regional business hub. The Head of State cited the installation of a pro-business tax regime as one of the means through which the Government aims to courting foreign investments. A more investor-friendly environment will allow businesses to innovate, thrive and create more economic opportunities for the people, he said. He made the remarks during an investment forum and engagement at the Silicon Valley in San Francisco, United States. President Ruto said Kenya had upgraded its data protection regulations in line with the Global Cross-Border Private Rules framework, was secure, home to green energy and good infrastructure. We have also eliminated VAT on exported services and abolished tax on stock-based compensation for employees of start-ups. He assured global firms of Kenyas ample supply of energetic, gifted and skilled human capital who are responsible for driving the countrys tech sector. We continue to develop a workforce fit for the changing world. The Head of State pointed out that Kenya is also supporting entrepreneurs through the creation of a digital hub in every ward. This will offer learning and innovation to more than one million talents. This incredible talent pool will serve your businesses. US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman, British Robinson, Coordinator Prosper Africa, several investors and captains of industry attended the forum. Ambassador Whitman said Kenya is the most stable democracy in East Africa, regional logistics and leading financial hub, gateway to the East African market, key destination for foreign direct investment and venture capital. -PCS National Assembly speaker Moses Wetangula has urged Kenyans to unite in the face of economic difficulties. While inaugurating a secondary school in Danisa village within Garsen constituency, Wetangula also assured of the governments dedication to resolving persistent issues of insecurity, land disputes, and marginalization. Wetangula mentioned that Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki is scheduled to visit the region soon, aiming to address the security issues in Tana River County. I have talked to the CS of interior Kithure Kindiki and he has told me that he will come here to talk to you on how you can better your security, he said. The Speaker emphasized the importance of the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) in constructing schools to advance education at the constituency level. Wetangula reiterated the necessity of affirmative action in marginalized regions and highlighted the potential of Tana River County as a significant food source for Kenya. We want to turn Tana River from a county in need to a county that gives, he said. He was accompnaied by Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana, MPs Ali Wario of Garsen, Majimbo Kalasinga of Kabuchai and Ruweida Mohamed of Lamu East among other leaders. The ongoing Eagle Partner joint military exercise of US and Armenian peacekeeping units was planned about two years ago. This was announced by Pavel Muraveiko, First Deputy State Secretary of the Security Council of Belarus. "Let me put it this way: the cycle of planning military exercises in NATO is two years; that is, this exercise was planned or it didn't happen yesterday. It was planned in advance, probably two years ago, or at least a year and a half ago. And our Armenian partners are simply fulfilling their obligations, considering that such an exercise was really planned. We in the [Collective Security Treaty] Organization look at these things calmly. Where its possible to better study the enemy, only by interacting with it to some extent. Therefore, it happened to the Armenians, let's say, this year," Muraveiko said in an interview with STV television. According to him, the fact that the Armenian military did not participate in a stage of the CSTO Indestructible Brotherhood Military Exercises held in Belarus from September 1 to 6 may be due to the fact that the Armenian side "had certain reasons" for this. "This, let's say, is not critical. Moreover, the exchange of opinions, data, and information regarding these exercises was organized within the framework of the Organization; that is, the Armenian side will receive the results, will study the modern tricks that occurred, and also will receive the video recording of those processed important moments," said the First Deputy State Secretary of the Security Council of Belarus. The Eagle Partner peacekeeping exercise is taking place in Armenia, from September 11 to 20, with the participation of 85 American and 175 Armenian servicemen. Central Bank chief: Armenia residents deposits increased by about 25% Armenia labor, social affairs minister attends Armenian-Iranian forum in Tehran European Union increases humanitarian funding to Armenia by about 1.7M Dollar, euro go up in Armenia Armenia PM, Poland envoy address humanitarian situation of forcibly displaced people from Karabakh Ardshinbank has been recognized as the "Best Corporate" and "Best ESG Bank" in Armenia by Euromoney magazine Turkey border bridge renovation, furnishing underway, Armenia official says Armenia official: Enclaves issue will be clarified when peace treaty with Azerbaijan is signed Armenia official: Positive thing about North-South project is that we entered construction phase in some sections Ethnic cleansing in Karabakh received pin-drop silence by American media, US presidential nominee says Armenia economy minister: Trade relations with Russia are very important to us Armenia official: We have certain idea about construction of railway in Meghri sector, we are waiting 74 films to be screened in Armenia during 19th Rolan International Film Festival for Children and Youth Yeraskh steel plant project being implemented, it is being moved, it will be nearby, Armenia economy minister says Azerbaijan pledges guarantees to Karabakh Armenians after its blockade, genocide Karabakh ombudsman: Who needs forums, lengthy speeches if international community fails to prevent genocides? Maestro Sergey Smbatyan: Process that could have had only one outcome is resolved Legislature vice-speaker complains about reduction of programs in Armenia IT sector UNICEF Armenia: Next batch of humanitarian aid sent to Syunik Province Central Bank of Armenia reduces refinancing rate by 0.25 points, sets it at 9.5% Martin Schuepp: Red Cross is helping people left in Karabakh Finance minister: Armenia economic growth potential currently estimated at 5.5% Armenia official: The money we were allocating to Karabakh should be enough to fund all programs Parliament deputy speaker: Armenia has no contender in high tech Newspaper: Karabakh army handed over ammunition not to Azerbaijan, but to Russian side Canada ambassador about sanctions on Azerbaijan: There is also dispute within Armenia regarding them Audi Q6 e-tron launch delayed until at least Spring 2024 Armenia Investigative Committee official: 8 of 16 persons captured by Azerbaijan are Karabakh leadership members 4.8 magnitude earthquake strikes Turkey 14 individuals were tortured, and 64 died on the move from Nagorno Karabakh. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Council of Europe to prepare package of measures in response to refugee influx in Armenia Mher Grigoryan and EU Ambassador exchanged ideas on regional developments Minister of Defence had a meeting with the Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission of PRC Yeremyan Projects has launched the regional first livestock complex in Tashir community Rights of Karabakhs imprisoned former leadership are protected, Azerbaijan ombudsperson claims Finance ministry: Armenia economic growth target will be maintained at 7% level in 2024 Elnur Mammadov: Most points in peace treaty have been agreed upon by Azerbaijan, Armenia Statement: Alma-Ata Declaration has no mention of former union republics of ex-USSR Dollar drops, euro rises in Armenia Armenia defense sector capital spending planned in amount of around $1.4 billion in 2024 Lawyer: Maestro Sergey Smbatyan is acquitted Premier: Armenia defense spending planned to be increased by 125% in 2024 compared to 2018 Armenia, Ukraine officials underscore Pashinyan-Zelenskyy first meeting ReA15: 300 animation films, 30 guests from 40 countries, around 500 audience; Armenia international festival summed up Russias Makhachkala airport resumes operations Armenia's Pashinyan: There is serious progress in North-South motorway construction 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 UN peacekeeper wounded in Lebanese shelling Israel Armenians newspaper: Situation in Israel still difficult Iran President: Zionists were defeated, forced to retreat By Mariam Levina Talking about opening a road is wrong. David Babayan, Advisor to the President of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), said this, commentingat the request of Armenian News-NEWS.amon the Azerbaijani media reports about the simultaneous opening of the Berdzor (Lachin) corridor and the Akna (Aghdam)-Stepanakert motorway. "We see that certain speculations have started that the roads are open and from both sides; both in the Azerbaijani and intra-Armenian media space. The roads are not open; its just that huge humanitarian loads have accumulated in the Lachin-Berdzor corridor, the population of Artsakh is literally starving to death. It was necessary to somehow, at least a small drop of aid, flour, first of all, to be delivered to Artsakh. Humanitarian cargoes of the ICRC have been deployed in Barda [town of Azerbaijan]. The vehicle was loaded with Swiss, Spanish and Russian productsmainly hygiene items and medicines. An agreement has been reached to pass this vehicle through Akna (Aghdam). The driver is not Azerbaijani, the vehicle is not Azerbaijani, the license plates are not Azerbaijani, and the goods are not Azerbaijani either, in order to allow 20 tons of flour to be transported from Goris [city of Armenia] to starving Artsakh; this is a drop in the ocean of suffering," Babayan said. "Now, many people outside Artsakh express views without knowing what hunger is; and for God's sake, let them never know. But the point is that we have to assess the situation as it really is. The Goris flour is Armenian; and there can be no Azerbaijani product there. Now say, what shall we do? Facebook knights [are] fighting virtually, showing their patriotism virtually. Our people are proud, so we do not accept any goods of Azerbaijani production. We are part of this nation, we cannot do otherwise. The people [in Artsakh] are really starving to death, small children, old people, sick people. Young and middle-aged people can somehow cope, but what about children, the elderly, the sick. Young and middle-aged people can somehow cope, but what to do with children, the elderly, and the sick? Shouldn't we import flour from Armenia in order for someone on Facebook to think of themselves as a hero? Therefore, we must understand the situation and know that even in this difficult situation we do not violate our principles, ideals, ideas, national pride," he noted. "But the road is not open; one truck went from Akna to Askeran, the otherfrom Goris; that's all," added David Babayan. More than 100 businessmen from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and more than 200 businessmen from the Armenian side have assembled today at the Armenian-Emirati business forum; this is the largest Armenian-Emirati business forum that has taken place in the last 25 years. Armenian Minister of Economy Vahan Kerobyan told this to reporters before the start of the aforesaid event Monday. According to him, this is a response to the developing economic relations that Armenia has today with its partners in the UAE. "Last year, the trade between Armenia and the UAE exceeded $1 billion. The UAE became one of Armenia's three international trade partners, along with Russia and China. According to the data of the first seven months of this year, the trade amounted to $870 million, which is three times higher than the indicator of the same period of the previous year," said Kerobyan. He emphasized that Armenia's economic relations with the UAE are developing in the financial domain, as well as in investments, real estate, trade, industry, culture, health care, and tourism. "You know that last week during the visit of [Armenian FM] Ararat Mirzoyan to the UAE, an agreement was signed that cancels the requirement of [entry] visas, which is important for us from the point of view of both inbound and outbound tourism. The UAE is a preferred destination for Armenian tourists, becoming more accessible and affordable; we believe the same is true in the opposite direction," Kerobyan noted. "We see a lot of untapped potential, and this business forum is of great importance to us. Now a number of big projects are being discussed. There is a large investment program in the real estate sector, in the tourism sector, in the healthcare sector. There are quite a lot of them, and I believe that after this business forum they will increase even more because we know that there are interesting plans," said the Armenian minister of economy. The United States cannot dialogue with Russia on the Karabakh issue, but it is aware that the Russians are inviting the parties to talks. Ambassador Michael Carpenter, the US Permanent Representative to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), told this to the RFE/RL Armenian Service, and added that it is the decision of the parties whether to go to these talks. As per Carpenter, the US focused on the normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, borders, and finding a just and lasting peace, and that is why the US is in talks with Armenia and Azerbaijan, and supports the respective efforts of the European Union, especially the President of the European Council, Charles Michel. At the same time, it is no secret that the Russians invite the parties to talks and that the Russians have peacekeepers on the ground, but at this time the US cannot have a dialogue about the Russians' actions, so the parties themselves decide whether they want to engage in Russian-mediated talks, Carpenter continued. Moreover, speaking of the mediators, the American diplomat emphasized that his country, unlike the others, is not a neighbor of Armenia and Azerbaijan, has no biased interests, and thus can be more impartial and sincere, and they realize this both in Yerevan and Baku. At this phase, it is a priority for Washington that the humanitarian goods reach Karabakh, and the US has conveyed this message to Azerbaijan, said the high-ranking American diplomat. Michael Carpenter elaborated that it is important that the Lachin corridor be reopened now, but the using of the Aghdam motorway is also acceptable for the US. The US ambassador to the OSCE assessed the situation in Karabakh as extremely serious, really dire, and said it is urgent to meet the needs of the people living there, and the worsening of the situation there cannot be tolerated. Carpenter noted that for more than a year, the Westthe United States, and the European Unionhas been actively negotiating with Armenia and Azerbaijan to establish peace in the region, and judging by those talks, there is an impression in Washington that Baku and Yerevan want to reach solutions, but there are maximalist trends, too. Therefore, according to him, the US should redouble its diplomacy and contactscooperating with its European partners and trying to find a solutionand it must not spare any effort because otherwise the conflict could resume, which no one wants. By Mariam Levina Medicines and flour have been delivered to Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) to help the local population. This information was officially confirmed by Zara Amatuni, Communication and Prevention Program Manager of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Armenia office, in an interview with Armenian News-NEWS.am on Monday. "The announcement has already been posted on the ICRC website that today there was an operation to deliver humanitarian aid to Artsakh by two trucks, which was coordinated with the decision-makers. one [of these trucks] entered [Artsakh] from the side of Lachin corridor, the othervia the Akna [(Aghdam)] road. Medicines and flour were delivered to Artsakh to help the local population. The food and medicine were bought by the ICRC and delivered today after a long time when such operations did not seem possible due to the lack of humanitarian consensus. After long negotiations, it was managed to reach a decision," said Amatuni. "We hope that such operations will be repeated in the future, as it is necessary in this situation. The ICRC is ready to provide all kinds of assistance in the future, subject to the agreement of the people who make the decisions. But the humanitarian organization's assistance cannot solve the problems of the [Artsakh] population in connection with the full list of goods and services that are needed every day. Humanitarian aid is necessary, but it cannot be the final solution to the situation," the ICRC representative added. Relations between Armenia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have been developing quite dynamically, especially recently. Armenian Deputy Foreign Minister Vahan Kostanyan told this to reporters before the start of the Armenian-Emirati business forum Monday. "Also, during the [recent] visit of the Minister of Foreign Affairs [of Armenia] to Abu Dhabi, several practical agreements were reached, and the [Armenian] government shall start working on their implementation; and this will enable to further develop the economic relations between the two countries. Today, the trade we have with the UAE is quite large. In fact, the UAE is our first trading partner in the Middle East, but there is certainly a much larger market that we should try to reach. Such business forums will help our businessmen to make contacts with their Emirati colleagues, Kostanyan said. Also, at the same time, the [Armenian] government and the MFA take care that the relevant legal contract base is updated with the Emirati side, which will enable to create institutional bases for deepening the cooperation. In this regard, I believe the signed agreement on the liberalization of visas, which has not yet entered into forceit will enter into force after being ratified by the [Armenian] parliament, is quite important. This, in turn, will enable to further intensify tourist flows in both directions, as well as development of business ties," added the Armenian deputy foreign minister. And to the question as to when the aforesaid visa liberalization agreement will come into force in Armenia, Kostanyan responded as follows: "The agreement shall go to the CC [(Constitutional Court)], undergo constitutional oversight, and then be submitted to the NA [(National Assembly)] for ratification. We hope to complete the process in a very short period of time." The head of the State Security Service of Azerbaijan and chairman of the countrys State Commission for Servicemen, Prisoners of War and Missing Persons, Ali Naghiyev has admitted that until the Karabakh conflict, many Armenians had lived in numerous cities of the Azerbaijan SSR. "Until the beginning of the conflict, the Armenian population lived in [Azerbaijani capital] Baku and other regions of Azerbaijan, including Karabakh, in comfortable conditions, had prestige in the society," said Naghiyev, speaking at a conference entitled "Strengthening of National and Global Efforts to Determine the Fate of the Missing." This Azerbaijani official, however, did not say why the Armenian population had left Azerbaijan. Naghiyev did not speak also about the pogrom, massacres, murders, and numerous other brutalities that caused hundreds of thousands of Armenians to flee from Azerbaijan. Instead, the head of the State Security Service of Azerbaijan "used the opportunity" and accused the Armenian side of "not being constructive," and called on Armenia to " collaborate more closely in matters related to detainees and hostages." Azerbaijan denies the existence of many Armenian detainees in the country, has not found the culprits of the brutal Azerbaijani war crimes of recent years against Armenians, and sees "constructiveness" only in meeting its own demands. This is our first visit to Armenia. Honestly Armenia is a country of beautiful opportunities with its hospitality, culture, history, and we are very interested in all of that. Abdullah Mohamed Al Mazrouei, President of Federation of UAE Chambers of Commerce & Industry and head of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) delegation visiting Armenia, told this to reporters before the start of the Armenian-Emirati business forum Monday. Just as the UAE, the entire Emirati private sector is interested in successful cooperation with successful partners, and from that point of view, Armenia is very interesting to the UAE because the Armenian economy is registering quite dynamic and stable growth, Al Mazrouei said, adding, however, that it will be difficult for him to talk about specific projects based on the results of their first visit to Armenia He noted that at the moment, they are in Armenia to understand what ways there are to promote mutual trade and economic cooperation from a general infrastructural and logistical point of view, and that this is one of the important matters on their agenda Al Mazrouei stated that the development of the economy in the UAE is quite high and the medical sector is no exception. He said that within the framework of this visit, they want to find what chances there are of cooperation in this sector in Armenia. Al Mazrouei said they are aware that Armenia has a fairly well-educated and well-equipped medical workforce, and there is a great shortage of medical workers in the world today. He noted that cooperation in this sector is possible, collaboration at the level of private medical institutions is possible, and that they expect to be present during future visits, too. And from this point of view, Abdullah Mohamed Al Mazrouei continued, it is noteworthy that Armenia provides quite large tax benefits in this sector, which is encouraging. Minister of Economy Vahan Kerobyan attended the Armenia-United Arab Emirates (UAE) business forum Monday in Yerevan, the Ministry of Economy of Armenia informs Armenian News-NEWS.am. "The trade between Armenia and the UAE is increasing year by year, as evidenced by statistical data," Kerobyan noted, in particular, at the event. Nariman Mohd Sharif Abdulla AlMulla, UAE Ambassador to Armenia, and Abdullah Mohamed Al Mazrouei, President of Federation of UAE Chambers of Commerce & Industry and head of the UAE delegation visiting Armenia, also delivered addresses at the forum. In addition, several memorandums of understanding were signed within the framework of this event. During the forum, the investment appeal and business opportunities of Armenia were presented to the participants, as well as the success stories of companies operating in Armenia with Emirati capital. Once again, we emphasise that international actors involved in the resolution of the Azerbaijan-Karabakh conflict must ensure the complete reinstatement of the operation of the Lachin Corridor, ensuring the free, safe and unimpeded movement of persons, vehicles and cargo in both directions, in line with the Trilateral Statement of 9 November 2020 and the Orders of the International Court of Justice. Says the statement of Artsakh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. "On 18 September 2023, around 28 tons of humanitarian aid, comprising wheat flour, medical supplies and hygiene items, were transported to Artsakh through the Lachin Corridor and the Akna (Agdam) Stepanakert road, using vehicles of the International Committee of the Red Cross. This humanitarian mission has been the result of extensive talks involving the International Committee of the Red Cross, the command of the Russian peacekeeping forces in Artsakh, and international mediators, and was undertaken in response to the extremely critical humanitarian At the same time, it is important to emphasise that Artsakh continues to remain under siege, being deprived of essential gas and electricity supplies from Armenia and the ability to sustain the normal way of life of its population. It should be also stressed that, without reliable and regular deliveries of food and essential supplies, it is impossible to address the escalating humanitarian catastrophe. This humanitarian cargo delivery, amounting to less than 7% of the daily 400-ton import of goods to Artsakh before the blockade, falls significantly short of replacing the regular commercial deliveries, both in terms of volume and the diversity of essential goods needed to sustain a normal way of life and support the natural development of Artsakh. Situation brought about by the complete blockade imposed by Azerbaijan. Once again, we emphasise that international actors involved in the resolution of the Azerbaijan-Karabakh conflict must ensure the complete reinstatement of the operation of the Lachin Corridor, ensuring the free, safe and unimpeded movement of persons, vehicles and cargo in both directions, in line with the Trilateral Statement of 9 November 2020 and the Orders of the International Court of Justice. Only in this case can we talk about the end of the blockade and the subsequent restoration of normal life conditions, enabling the full realisation of the individual and collective rights of the people of Artsakh, including their fundamental right to freedom of movement, access to healthcare, education and development. We remain hopeful that the collective diplomatic efforts of all involved parties will lead to the attainment of this paramount and pivotal objective,'' says the statement. Wang Yi in Russia for security talks The Russian foreign ministry says Wang Yi will discuss Ukraine with Russian officials. File photo: AP Foreign Minister Wang Yi begins on Monday a four-day trip to Russia after two days of meetings with US President Joe Biden's national security adviser over the weekend in Malta. The Foreign Ministry said Wang will be in Russia from Monday to Thursday for a round of China-Russia strategic security consultations. He will meet the secretary of the Security Council of Russia, Nikolai Patrushev. In an earlier briefing, the Russian foreign ministry said the foreign minister would meet with his counterpart Sergei Lavrov, and the two planned to "focus on efforts to strengthen collaboration on the international scene". "There will be a detailed exchange of views on issues related to a settlement in Ukraine, as well as ways of ensuring stability and security in the Asia-Pacific region," a spokesperson said. Beijing and Moscow are expected to pledge deeper mutual political trust, readying for a possible landmark visit by President Vladimir Putin to Beijing in October. Wang, who's also China's top diplomat, discussed the situation in Ukraine in his weekend meetings with US national security adviser Jake Sullivan. Both sides described the talks as candid, substantive and constructive as they try to stabilise their rocky relationship and manage differences over security, trade, technology and human rights. Those talks were the latest in a series of high-level meetings between Chinese and US officials that could lay the foundation for a meeting this year between President Xi Jinping and Biden. (Agencies) Danish artist ordered to return cash he took as 'art' Kunsten Museum director Lasse Andersson previously said he laughed out loud when he first saw the two blank canvasses entitled "Take the Money and Run." Photo: Shutterstock A Danish court on Monday ordered an artist to refund a museum which gave him 70,000 euros in cash to incorporate into artworks, after which he delivered blank canvasses entitled "Take the Money and Run." Jens Haaning was commissioned by the Kunsten Museum in the western city of Aalborg to reproduce two works using the cash Danish kroner and euros to represent the annual salary in Denmark and Austria. A Copenhagen court on Monday ordered Haaning, 58, to refund the museum 492,549 kroner (66,000 euros, US$70,480), equivalent to the sum the museum had given him minus the artist's fee and the mounting cost. Museum director Lasse Andersson previously said that he laughed out loud when he first saw the two blank canvasses in 2021, and decided to show the works anyway. He said they have a "humoristic approach" and were "a reflection on how we value work". But he said the museum would take Haaning to court if he didn't pay back the money, which he refused to do. Interviewed on TV2 Nord television on Monday, Haaning said the museum had made "much, much more" money than what it invested thanks to the publicity surrounding the affair. (AFP) SIU Carbondale welcomes 30 new tenure-track faculty this fall CARBONDALE, Ill. Southern Illinois University Carbondale is welcoming 30 new tenure-track faculty to campus for the fall 2023 semester. Sheryl A. Tucker, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs, said the university is delighted to welcome new faculty to the Saluki family, and she is excited to see their contributions in educating SIU students, along with their research, scholarship and creative endeavors. These individuals were invited to join SIU programs after monthslong national searches, in which we sought out the most qualified, creative scholars and researchers who are passionate about educating the next generation of undergraduate, graduate and professional students, she said. Our faculty are outstanding leaders in their respective fields. I look forward to facilitating their success as they make disciplinary and interdisciplinary contributions that enhance society and solve our grand challenges. Faculty truly are integral to the institutional fabric of SIU. Find out more about these faculty hires on the provost's website PRNewswire Chandigarh [India], September 18: Led bytheChancellorofChandigarh University & Indian Minorities Foundation Convener, Satnam Singh Sandhu, faith leaders from different religions celebrated the 73rd birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (September 17) in Chandigarh, by holding special prayers to seek divine blessings for PM Modi's wellbeing. The faith leaders visited all these religious places to mark the Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday and pray for his good health and longevity. On the occasion, faith leaders of different religions hailed the visionary leadership of PM Modi who they said has worked for the welfare of every community without any discrimination and led the country on the path to development. Organized by the Indian Minorities Foundation (IMF), special prayers were held at different places of worship to pray for PM Modi on his 73rdbirthday in which people of different religions gathered in large numbers in their respective religious places. The day began with Navgrah puja and Havan at Sanatan Dharma Mandir in Sector 16 followed by Dua and offering of Chadar at Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat Mosque in Sector 45. The delegation then participated in the Holy Mass prayer at Jeevan Jyoti Church-CNI before heading for Kirtan and Ardas at Gurudwara Partakh Darshan Patshahi Chewwi at PGI in Sector 12, Chandigarh. The multi-faith prayers were followed by Langar at the Gurudwara. The leaders of all the faiths hailed the PM Modi's vision of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. The praised the PM's efforts for making India a 'self-reliant' country for which the success of the Moon mission and G20 summit serve as a testimony. The Indian Minorities Foundation delegation that participated in the interfaith prayers includedSant Baba Lakha Singh Ji Nanaksar Kaleran; Dr. Shrikant Mishra, Mukhya Archak Kashi Vishwanath Mandir Varanasi; Swami Ameshwar Dass; Vivek Muni, Founder of Acharya Sushil Muni Mission; Acharya Omprakash, Chief Priest Sanatan Dhrama Mandir, Sector 16, Chandigarh; Anil Masih, President, All Churches Council for Punjab and Chandigarh; Mansoor Khan, National President, Sufi Islam Board; Kashish Warsi, President, Sufi Foundation,Moradabad; Bishop Denzel Peoples,Chandigarh Diocese Church of North India (CNI); Rev. Rajan Sharda, Chairman Jeevan Jyoti Church PGI; Sufi Sant Ghulam Haider Kadri; Maulana Habeeb; Khalifa Nahim Chisty Sabri; and Dr Faiyaz Ahmad Fyzie, Author and Socio-Pasmanda Activist, among others. A group of NRI guests from Australia also took part in the multi-faith prayers held at the Church and Gurudwara for the well-being of PM Modi on the occasion of his birthday. They prayed for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's well-being and said that he is a strong leader who has not just taken his own nation to the pinnacle of success but also inspired other nations with his visionary approach. Chancellor,Chandigarh University & IMF Convenor, Satnam Singh Sandhu stated that indeed it is a joyous occasion for all the communities living across the country. "India is blessed to have such a visionary leader who has reshaped the lives of 140 crore India during last nine years. There is sense of relief and peace among all communities ever since Narendra Modi began his premiership in 2014. He is leading the country towards new heights as showcased during the recent G20 summit held in Delhi," said Satnam Singh Sandhu. Satnam Singh Sandhu further said, "The welfare measures taken by PM Modi have been unbiased and indiscriminate. Every community feels valued in PM Modi's governance. India is charting a new course towards becoming a developing nation and PM Modi has made it possible that all communities become equal partners in this journey. He has given special attention to the welfare of poor and underprivileged communities and has emerged as a 'messiah of poor'." On PM Modi's birthday, the members of all the religious communities came together and gave a message of unity and harmony for the development of India, in line with the PM Modi's vision of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. PM Modi's birthday became a reason to reinvigorate communal harmony and the social fabric of the country. Multi-faith prayers, blood donation and interfaith dialogue were held as a part of the Sewa Pakhwada being celebrated to mark the birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Next activity in line is the Mega Multispecialty Health Camp on September 24 followed by a cleanliness drive on October 2. Sewa Pakhwada will conclude with Kanyavrat and FitIndia events on October 4. About Indian Minorities Foundation India Minorities Foundation, a non- government organization, founded by Satnam Singh Sandhu, Chancellor Chandigarh University, is committed to promote patriotism and national pride among minority groups and support to empower individuals and communities. IMF is working to promote a sense of belonging and inclusion. The main objective of IMF is to foster a sense of national pride with a sense of national pride among minority groups by highlighting their shared history, culture, and contributions to the nation, and by encouraging active participation in civic life. Website address:http://minorities.foundation/ About Chandigarh University Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by the UGC and located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with the A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the fields of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC. Website link:https://www.cuchd.in/ Photo:https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2213336/Chandigarh_University_IMF.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) A new intervening application has been submitted in the Supreme Court requesting the formation of a fresh expert committee comprising individuals with unblemished integrity and no conflicts of interest in the matter related to the Hindenburg report. The application has been filed by one of the petitioners, Anamika Jaiswal, through her advocate Ramesh Kumar Mishra. The application highlights concerns about certain members of the existing committees, suggesting conflicts of interest. In March 2023, the Supreme Court established an Expert Committee to investigate allegations made against the Adani Group in the Hindenburg Report and examine potential regulatory failures. The committee, chaired by Justice (Retd.) Abhay Manohar Sapre, included members O P Bhatt, Justice J P Devadhar, KV Kamath, Nandan Nilekani, and Somashekhar Sundaresan. The application specifically questions the involvement of OP Bhatt, a member of the Expert Committee and former Chairman of the State Bank of India, who is presently the Chairman of Greenko, a renewable energy company. It notes that Greenko and the Adani Group have been in a close partnership since March 2022 to provide energy to Adani's facilities in India. K V Kamath, another member of the committee, was Chairman of ICICI Bank from 1996 to 2009 and was mentioned in a CBI FIR related to the ICICI Bank fraud case. The case revolved around Chanda Kochhar, who served as the Managing Director and CEO of ICICI Bank from 2009 to 2018. The CBI alleged that she and her family received kickbacks in exchange for loans provided to the Videocon group, many of which became non-performing assets (NPAs) during her tenure. Kamath was the non-executive chairman of the bank at the time some of these loans were approved and was also a member of the committee that sanctioned them. The petitioner had previously raised concerns about another committee member, Somashekhar Sundaresan, citing his representation of Adani before various forums, including the SEBI Board. Recent developments indicate that out of the 24 investigations stemming from the Hindenburg report, 22 have concluded, while two remain interim in nature, according to a report filed by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) with the Supreme Court. SEBI stated that it had sought information from external agencies/entities and would evaluate it concerning the interim investigation reports. Appropriate action would be taken based on the outcome of the investigations, SEBI assured, in accordance with the law. The Supreme Court had granted SEBI an additional three months in May to conduct its probe into the Hindenburg report. The Court had directed SEBI on March 2 this year to investigate potential violations of securities laws by the Adani Group following the Hindenburg report's release, which led to a significant decline in the group's market value. Various petitions related to the Hindenburg report, including those addressing regulatory mechanisms to protect investors' interests, have been filed in the Supreme Court. The January 24 Hindenburg report had alleged stock manipulation and fraud by the conglomerate, a claim that the Adani Group vehemently refuted, calling the report a lie by an unethical short seller. (ANI) NewsVoir New Delhi [India], September 18: Alliance Insurance Brokers, one of Indias leading insurance service providers, risk managers, and reinsurance brokers, has joined hands with 25 plus companies so far in the renewable energy sector, to provide new age insurance products in the sector. Alliance Insurance Brokers will be majorly focusing on two insurance solutions- Performance warranty and Parametric insurance solutions. The significance of performance warranty insurance is growing by the day. In today's dynamic business landscape, new manufacturers are emerging, especially post the launch of "Make in India" initiative. It is expected that an energy project (whether it belongs to an established company or new set-up), will perform up to a promised level within a stipulated time. Alliance Insurance Brokers will provide financial protection to the company owners,in case the project fails to meet its performance targets. It will also provide parametric solutions to companies, in case of large catastrophic events like drought, earthquakes, cyclone etc. which could lead to complete destruction of solar power installations and/or wind farms. To strengthen its capabilities and deliver these innovative solutions effectively, Alliance Insurance Brokers has secured reinsurance support from Aerial Re, a reputable US-based reinsurer and Axa Climate, a leader in providing parametric covers. Speaking at the Alternate Risk Transfer: Sustainable Energy event in Delhi, Aatur Thakkar, Co-founder and Director, Alliance Insurance Brokers said, India aims to reach net zero emissions by the year 2070 and meet 50% of its energy requirements from the RE industry by 2035. The sector is expected to grow manifold, due to reducing costs of materials and technologies, making it an emerging sector in the times to come. The RE sector needs immense protection from risks related to natural disasters, supply chain issues, equipment failures, policy and regulatory changes and political instability. Thus, ahead of the G 20 Summit, Alliance Insurance Brokers has announced providing innovative insurance solutions to RE projects and promoting long- term sustainability. Umakant Shende, Managing Director, ZEIT Green Development India Pvt. Ltd. said, "Post March 23, domestic demand for modules is expected to grow many fold and a product like performance warranty will instil confidence in entrepreneurs. In the coming times, insurance will play a mission critical role, as more and more renewable energy projects are coming up, across the world and these projects will require comprehensive insurance covers. There is a need for insurance companies and reinsurers to join hands and provide innovative solutions to such established companies, start-ups, entrepreneurs across the world. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) PRNewswire Curitiba [Brazil], September 18: Tech company specializing in payments for rising markets EBANX announced today the expansion of its operations to India, adding a new region to its portfolio that already reaches 18 countries in Latin America and Africa. With its technological and financial solutions, EBANX will enable global merchants to offer their Indian customers the most used local payment methods, starting with the local real-time payments system UPI (Unified Payments Interface) and cards, enabling businesses and people to thrive in the booming digital commerce space in India. After growing its footprint to 15 Latin American countries for over a decade and recently 3 African countries, EBANX is moving forward with its global expansion on the Asian continent. India holds immense potential for digital payment solutions, and EBANX is committed to leveraging this opportunity. The country's digital commerce sector is projected to grow 35% by 2025, according to projections from Statista, with a market worth over USD 100 billion and a potential user base of 400 million people. As India progresses towards becoming the world's third-largest economy by 2027, surpassing Japan and Germany, its GDP could more than double by 2031, reaching an impressive USD 7.5 trillion, according toMorgan Stanley. By expanding its operations to India, EBANX aims to bridge the gap between global businesses and Indian customers, enabling secure, convenient, and localized payment experiences across industry verticals like SaaS, Digital Gaming, Social Media, Digital Ads, Streaming, and Online Retail. As the company continues its mission of expanding into rising markets, this strategic move reinforces EBANX's commitment to empowering businesses, customers, and entire ecosystems worldwide. "India is such a powerful market for global digital commerce. The country saw its digital payments grow four times over the last six years, solidifying a very diverse, customer-centric payments landscape that has access at its core. We are excited to expand our operations into India, bringing our expertise in connecting rising economies and global brands but, most importantly, having the opportunity to be a part of the acceleration that is taking place in the country," saidJoo Del Valle, CEO and Co-founder of EBANX. UPI, the increasingly popular local payment for Indian customers Created in April 2016 by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), UPI is a technology that combines multiple banking services, smooth fund routing, and merchant payments into a single online commerce checkout flow. UPI has emerged as a popular real-time payment system, allowing individuals to make instant and secure smartphone transactions. With over 300 million users in India, according toNPCI, UPI has processed over USD 1 trillion in the past year, equivalent to one-third of the country's GDP, as stated by theentity. This widespread adoption showcases the convenience and reliability of UPI's services, including peer-to-peer fund transfers, bill payments, online purchases, and more. "In rising markets like Latin American and African countries, we noticed a movement towards real-time and alternative payments. India is a pioneer in instant payment systems, and that is why EBANX will start its operations focusing on UPI as one of the main payment methods," saidPaula Bellizia, President of Global Payments at EBANX."As the Indian market warmly embraces digital payments and digital commerce continues its rapid growth, we see great opportunities for businesses, and meaningful partnerships being fostered. Our roadmap for India is completely aligned with our core mission at EBANX: creating access through technological and financial solutions, to connect millions of people, businesses and ecosystems in rising markets to the global digital economy," she added. With its 24/7 operation and support for multiple banks, UPI offers users the ability to make payments, send and receive money utilizing unique UPI IDs or scanning QR codes. The system also includes recurrence features, allowing users to schedule payments for subscriptions, further enhancing its appeal to businesses and consumers alike. ABOUT EBANX EBANX is the leading payments platform connecting global companies with customers from one of the fastest-growing digital markets in the world. The company was founded in 2012 in Brazil with the mission of giving people access to buy in international digital commerce. With powerful proprietary technology and infrastructure, combined with in-depth knowledge of the markets where it operates, EBANX enables global businesses to connect with hundreds of payment methods in different countries in Latin America, Africa, and Asia. EBANX goes beyond payments, increasing sales and fostering seamless purchase experiences for businesses and clients. For more information:Website:https://www.ebanx.com/en/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/ebanx PR Agency Content CO:Leonardo Stamillo+1 (646) 393-7460leo@contentco.tech Logo -https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2212992/EBANX_Logo.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) The arrest was made on September 13, based on specific intelligence inputs, according to an official statement. The officers conducted an investigation into the affairs of Nityank Infrapower and Multiventures Private Limited for their role during the demonetisation period and launched prosecution against the company and individuals before the Special Court VIII Addl Metropolitan Sessions Judge, Hyderabad (Special Court). Despite the issuance of a summons, Panchal failed to appear before the Special Court at Hyderabad. The arrest was made pursuant to a Non-Bailable Arrest Warrant issued by Special Court, Hyderabad, and he was produced before the Special Court at Hyderabad on 13.09.2023 and was remanded to Judicial Custody, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs said in a press release. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on November 8, 2016, announced the demonetization of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 banknotes. (ANI) PRNewswire New Delhi [India], September 18: HarperCollins today announced that the third edition of their flagship 'The Lecture' seriesAshoka by Patrick Olivellewill be based on the celebrated scholar's new book that constructs a fascinating portrait of India's first great ruler, where the figure of Ashoka comes vividly alive, notwithstanding the elusiveness and fragmentary nature of the sources. Keenly awaited and also being published in eight other languages around the world, Ashoka is the first book in the Indian Lives series, edited and curated by Ramachandra Guha. The Lecture, A series of talks by writers and thinkers from around the world brought to Indian audiences. Ashokais releasing on 20 September 2023 under HarperCollins' prestigious Fourth Estate imprint. The inaugural lecture 'Vivekananda, Guru to the World' by Ruth Harris - was based on her definitive biography of Swami Vivekananda, the Indian monk who shaped the intellectual and spiritual history of both East and West. The second lecture 'Smoke and Ashes' by Amitav Ghosh depicted his journey through opium's hidden histories. Delhi's iconicIndia International Centrewill host the event in the Seminar Hall 1, 2, 3 on Friday, 6 October 2023, 6:00 p.m. Register here:https://forms.gle/xomJhfzbLPLoTd3K9. ABOUT THE BOOK A Fourth Estate Book Hardback | Non-Fiction | History |400 pp | INR 799 Ashoka, the last great Mauryan emperor, is one of the most iconic figures in Indian history. Under his rule (268232 BCE) the Mauryan empire extended across almost the entirety of the Indian subcontinent. Apart from his effective reign over his vast kingdom, Ashoka is well known for his renunciation of war, his development of the concept of dhamma, his patronage of Buddhism and his promotion of religious harmony. Ashoka has been imagined, and reimagined, many times over down the centuries. It has been said that there are at least two Ashokas: the historical Ashoka (whom we know mainly through his inscriptions) and the legendary Ashoka, who is largely a construct of the popular imagination. The distinguished scholar Patrick Olivelle's new book resists the temptation to blend the two a temptation that many writers have succumbed to as it seeks to gain deeper insights into the emperor's world. Based primarily on the inscriptions (which is where Ashoka 'speaks for himself'), Olivelle constructs a fascinating portrait of India's first great ruler, where the figure of Ashoka comes vividly alive, notwithstanding the elusiveness and fragmentary nature of the sources. Patrick Olivelle says,"For a biographer, Ashoka presents a unique problem. Contemporary accounts of Ashoka are few to none, while he left behind a relatively large corpus of writings. I have attempted to make a virtue of necessity and to draw a portrait of Ashoka his personality andmindset, his thoughts, and aspirations as it emerges from his own writings. I seek to make Ashoka come alive to make the readers feel they have had an intimate encounter with the ancient king. I do this under four major spheres of his life and activities: king, Buddhist, moral philosopher, and ecumenist. My hope is that readers will come away as fascinated as I with this philosopher king unique in world history." Ramachandra Guha says, "As the editor of Indian Lives, it is a great privilege to have Patrick Olivelle'sAshokaas the inaugural volume in the series. In this wonderful book, subject and author are perfectly matched.Professor Olivelle is arguably the greatest living scholar of ancient India, while Ashoka was one of the most remarkable figures in world history, an unusually self-reflective emperor whose ideas have had an enduring legacy. Professor Olivelle's narrativeseamlessly juxtaposes the ruler's intentions and actions against the wider political and social background of his times. Ashoka's revolutionarymoral philosophy, and his innovations in the practice of kingship, are elaborated with sensitivity and authority. With the rigour of its research, the subtlety of its judgments, and the elegance of its prose, Patrick Olivelle'sAshokasets new standards in biographical writing." Udayan Mitra, Executive Publisher, HarperCollins says,"We at HarperCollins are immensely excited to launch a new series of biographies called Indian Lives where leading writers and scholars will focus on the life and legacy of important figures from India's history. The series is curated and edited by Ramachandra Guha and will feature biographies of extraordinary individuals who may be separated in time sometimes by centuries but whose impact on shaping the India we live in is indisputable. The first book in the Indian Lives series is a fascinating study of Ashoka by Patrick Olivelle, which to my mind is one of the strongest works of non-fiction publishing this year. I'm particularly pleased that Professor Olivelle will be with us in person to launch the book and deliver The Lecture based on his work." ABOUT THE AUTHOR Patrick Olivelle was born and raised in Sri Lanka. He received his MA from Oxford University and PhD from the University of Pennsylvania. He is currently Professor Emeritus at the University of Texas at Austin. He is a past president of the American Oriental Society and was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Olivelle was awarded the Guggenheim Fellowship in 1996, the Career Research Excellence Award by the University of Texas in 2011, the honorary doctorate of Humane Letters by the University of Chicago in 2016 and the Prize of Fondation Colette Caillat of the Institut de France in 2017. He is the author of over thirty books, some of which have won awards from the American Academy of Religion and the Association of Asian Studies. ABOUT HARPERCOLLINS PUBLISHERS INDIA HarperCollins is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, having begun publishing in India in 1992. HarperCollins India publishes some of the finest writers from the Indian Subcontinent and around the world, publishing approximately 200 new books every year, with a print and digital catalogue of more than 2,000 titles across 10 imprints. Its authors have won almost every major literary award including the Man Booker Prize, JCB Prize, DSC Prize, New India Foundation Award, Atta Galatta Prize, Shakti Bhatt Prize, Gourmand Cookbook Award, Publishing NextAward, Tata Literature Live! Award, Gaja Capital Business Book Prize, BICW Award, Sushila Devi Award, Sahitya Akademi Award and Crossword Book Award. HarperCollins India also represents some of the finest publishers in the world including Harvard University Press, Gallup Press, Oneworld, Bonnier Zaffre, Usborne, Dover and Lonely Planet. HarperCollins India has won the Publisher of the Year Award four times at Tata Literature Live! in 2022, 2021, 2018 and 2016, and at Publishing Next in 2021 & 2015. HarperCollins India is a subsidiary of HarperCollins Publishers. Photo:https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2213384/The_Lecture.jpgPhoto:https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2213386/Ashoka_Indian_Lives.jpgLogo:https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2105077/4095906/HarperCollins_Logo.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) India PR Distribution New Delhi [India], September 18: The Pacific Holiday World was respected for being the Best Company of The Year- Hospitality Services and travel firm with outstanding help in the year 2023. Indian Politician and Ex-National Vice President of the BJP, Shyam Jaju and Thabang Kholumo(Chargee d'affairs, Embassy of Lesotho) Respected the firm 'The Pacific Holiday World' for offering remarkable types of assistance in the Friendliness business. 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The true Indian custom of "Atithi Devo Bhavo," or "Guest is God," is, in our opinion, the essence of hospitality. To acquire additional information regarding how to join Pacific Holiday World. We can be reached at 1 800 313-717-171. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by India PR Distribution. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) Actor Ayushmann Khurrana has been honoured with the TIME100 Impact award this year.While receiving the award last night in Singapore, Ayushmann recited one of the verses from Bhagavad Gita. During his acceptance speech, he said, Before I begin, I would like to recite one of the verses from our Indian/Hindu scripture and guide - The Bhagavad Gita - Karmanye vadhikaraste, Ma Phaleshu Kadachana, Ma Karmaphalahetur bhurma, Te Sango Stvakarmani. This verse encapsulates the essence of selfless action. It emphasises to be process oriented than result oriented. It trains you to be detached from the fruits of your labour. Ayushmann was proudly representing India at the prestigious global event. https://www.instagram.com/p/CxUp2ldIU-s/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D He further said, It is a humbling moment for me to be recognised as an artiste by the prestigious TIME Magazine! Im here to represent Indias moment under the sun and Im proud of the fact that india is becoming a fulcrum of progressive story telling through cinema. I was very active as a street theatre actor. What exactly is street theatre? Its a very unique format of theatre, where actors in a group form a circle at a public place, call people to watch the act. And the act encapsulates the social fabric of our country. Its either a satire or a firm call for social change. Ayushmann has recently delivered his fifth 100-crore film Dream Girl 2. (ANI) Makers of the upcoming spin-off series Berlin on Monday announced the series official release date. Taking to Instagram, OTT platform Netflix dropped a new teaser of the series which they captioned, Berlin is a poet and this is going to be his masterpiece. Mark your calendars, Berlin arrives 29 December! https://www.instagram.com/p/CxVafsGszbk/ The spin-off of the super hit series Money Heist is all set to stream from December 29 on the OTT platform. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the new prequel series, which recounts the incredible heists carried out before the events of the original show, will star Pedro Alonso in the role he originated as the hedonistic, witty jewel thief Andres de Fonollosa, nicknamed Berlin, in the original series. Along with him, his new crew will consist of Joel Sanchez as Bruce, a relentless man of action, Begoa Vargas as the unstable Cameron, Julio Pea Fernandez as the devoted Roi, and Michelle Jenner as Keila, an electronics specialist. Tristan Ulloa (Faria) will play Berlin's friend and charitable professor Damian. Money Heist was initially created as a two-part, 15-episode limited series for the Spanish commercial network Antena 3 in 2017. It is an exceedingly intricate and twisted bank robbery drama. However, the show became an unexpected worldwide success when Netflix acquired the global rights, recut the two seasons into 22 shorter episodes, and released the show worldwide in December 2017. The third season of the show was ordered by the streaming service. The program's popularity is credited with helping to popularise non-English-language TV drama and paving the way for upcoming international hits like Squid Game. It was viewed by about 180 million households globally. One of the first such agreements with a non-English-language creator was made when Netflix and Pina inked a global exclusive overall deal in 2018. (ANI) Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi on Sunday requested all party leaders for active cooperation and support for the smooth functioning of the two Houses of Parliament, an official statement said on Sunday. The meeting of all the floor leaders of political parties in the Parliament was attended by Union Minister Piyush Goyal, who is also Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha, Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal and Union Minister V Muraleedharan and51 leaders from 34 parties including BJP and Ministers. The meeting was held under the was held under Chairmanship of Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh a day before the start of the 13th Session of the 17th Lok Sabha and 261st Session of Rajya Sabha commencing from Monday. Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs initiating the meeting, after welcoming all floor leaders, stated that the Session will provide 5 sittings spread over a period of 5 days, besides informing that tentatively 8 legislative items are likely to be taken up during this session, the statement said. During the meeting, he also informed that a discussion will be held on the subject Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha-Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings on Monday, the 18th of September, 2023. He shared with leaders that there would be a photo session from 10.00 am to 10.45 am on 19th September, 2023 followed by a function in the Central Hall starting at 11.00 am which will be graced by the Vice-President/Chairman, Rajya Sabha, the Prime Minister, Speaker, Lok Sabha, Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha and Leader of Largest Opposition Party in Lok Sabha and the Members of both the Houses of Parliament. "After the conclusion of the function in the Central Hall, both Houses will meet in their respective Chambers in the New Parliament House," an official statement said. Concluding the meeting, after listening to the points raised by the leaders of various political parties in both Houses of Parliament, Rajnath Singh, Union Minister for Defence, thanked leaders for their active and effective participation in the meeting and also for highlighting issues of public importance, the statement said. "He congratulated all Members in advance for getting the New Parliament House to discharge their parliamentary duties/functions from September 19, 2023, onwards," it added. During the meeting, Rajnath Singh conveyed heartfelt condolences for the sacrifices made by our soldiers and an officer of J-K Police combating with terrorists in J-K recently. Silence of one minute was also observed as a mark of respect. (ANI) The two had also attended the inaugural meeting of the reconstitutedCongress Working Committee (CWC) meeting in Hyderabad. Sonia and Rahul were pictured coming out of the Delhi airport, with their security escorts in tow. Earlier visuals of the duo along with Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge were shared on social media as they departed for Delhi. The Congress, meanwhile, announced six guarantees for the people of the poll-bound state after the two-day CWC meeting in Hyderabad. Congress general secretary KC Venugopal said, "The Congress has announced 6 guarantees to transform Telangana into a prosperous state while addressing the needs of the poor, and backward sections and ensuring a dignified living for the marginalised sections." The Telangana Assembly election is scheduled to be held later this year. Rahul spelt out the six poll guarantees if voted to power in the state. These arehouses for the homeless, Rs 4,000 old age pension, Rs 2,500 monthly assistance for all women, gas cylinders at Rs 500 each, free bus travel for women and Rs 10 lakh as health insurance cover, among a bouquet of other promises. Assuring people that these guarantees would be fulfilled in the first meeting of the cabinet if Congress formed the government in the state, he asked people to cross-check and verify in neighbouring Karnataka whether the promised guarantees had been fulfilled. The party leaders also lashed out at Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao, accusing him of having a nexus with theBJP and indulging in rampant corruption to benefit his own family. (ANI) Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader Ram Mohan Naidu on Sunday said he put forward the demand for a 'special category' status for Andhra Pradesh at the all-party meeting ahead of the Special Session of Parliament starting Monday. The all-party meeting was held in the national capital on Sunday. The TDP MP also offered his party's support and assistance to the tabling and passage of a Women's Reservation Bill. Speaking to ANI after the all-party meeting on Sunday, the TDP MP said, "We have put forth the demand, citing the AP (Andhra Pradesh) Reorganisation Act, that after the bifurcation of (undivided Andhra Pradesh), the Centre has to deliver on all its promises at the earliest. These include a 'special category' status for Andhra Pradesh." "We have offered our assistance in the passage of the Women's Reservation Bill. Since its inception, the TDP has been resolute and steadfast in its fight for women's empowerment, he added. Naidu added that he also put forward a demand for fast-tracking hearings of pending criminal cases against legislators. Another important demand that we placed before the central government was the fast-tracking of criminal cases against legislators," Naidu said. Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi hit out at the Centre over the lack of clarity on the agenda or the list of scheduled business for the Special Session of Parliament, "It is unfortunate how this government tells us everything late. Discussions will be held on various Bills during the 5-day session." Congress leader and MP Shakti Singh told ANI, "As per our time-honoured parliamentary practices and procedure, the Opposition members should be shown the draft of the Bill before it is tabled. When a special session is being called, the members (in the Opposition) are required to be briefed on the scheduled businesses. This would be the first time that there would be noquestion hour or zero hour in this session." (ANI) A delegation from Tamil Nadu led by Water resources Minister Durai Murugan is in New Delhi to meet Union water resources minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat to discuss the Cauvery water sharing issue, which has been a bone of contention of late with neighbouring Karnataka. The governments of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have been locked in a protracted tussle over the sharing of Cauvery waters. The river is seen as a major source of sustenance for the people in either state. The Centre formed the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) on June 2, 1990, to adjudicate disputes between Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Puducherry with respect to their individual water-sharing capacities. Cauvery water management committee and regulatory committee have recommended Karnataka to release five thousand cusec water to Tamil Nadu for 15 days but Karnataka has not released even a drop of water, said Durai Murugan, Water Resource Minister for Tamil Nadu, as he left for Delhi. We are going to ask the central minister today what are you going to do since you are looking on these two committees. Are you going to order Karnataka and monitor the situation, he said. Asked whether the Karnataka government was lying on the water shortage in the state, Murugan without any hesitation alleged, Yes, they are lying. Viduthalai Siruthigal Katchi ( VCK ) party chief and Lok Sabha MP Thol Thirumavalavan said, Today, we are planning to meet Union water resource Minister on Cauvery water issue. He should intervene and hope he will ask Karnataka governemnt and implement the Cauvery water management order to release water to Tamil Nadu. Last week, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah maintained his state was not in a position to release water as was ordered by the Supreme Court. "We have faced a severe deficit of rain in August compared to the previous 100 years. We don't have water, that's why we are not in a position to release water as per the SC order," Siddaramaiah told reporters after an all-party meeting. The meeting was convened to discuss the next course of action after the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee directed the state government to release 5,000 cusecs of water to neighbouring Tamil Nadu over the next 15 days. (ANI) According to the fire brigade authorities, the waters of the Mahisagar River entered the fields near Kherda village in Anand district, trapping five people. Earlier, on Sunday, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams evacuated around 206 villagers following the release of excess water from the Sardar Sarovar Dam in Gujarat's Narmada district. According to district authorities, 18 infants, 15 children, 61 women and 112 men from three villages including Gabhana, Akteswar and Sanjroli were evacuated and shifted to safer places. Meanwhile, in Bharuch district, around 2000 people were shifted to relief camps as water from the Narmada River inundated low-lying areas of the district on Sunday afternoon. According to district administration officials, the water level of the Narmada River near the Golden Bridge in Gujarat's Bharuch district reached 37 feet - about 9 ft above the danger mark, at Golden Bridge as of 7:30 pm on Sunday. As many as 23 out of 30 gates of the Sardar Sarovar Narmada dam in Kevadia Colony were opened to release 5.5 lakh cusecs of water on Saturday. Meanwhile, amid a surge in water levels in Narmada, SDRF teams were deployed in the district. Narmada Corporation is making careful efforts to maintain the water level in the dam and continuously working to reduce the impact of floods, they said. (ANI) Telugu Desam Party MPs protested near the Gandhi statue on Parliament premises here on Monday against the arrest of former Andhra Pradesh chief minister and party president N Chandrababu Naidu. Speaking to ANI, Lok Sabha member Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu said the party will "definitely raise" the TDP chief's arrest during the special session of the Parliament. "Our leader, Chandrababu Naidu, has been arrested illegally. False evidence has been presented. There is no evidence, still, he has been arrested. Andhra Pradesh CM Jagan Mohan Reddy is behaving like a psycho. If opposition leaders attempt to raise their voice, they try to put them behind bars. So, we are protesting here that democracy in Andhra Pradesh should be protected. We will definitely raise this issue in the House too," Kinjarapu told ANI. The five-day special session of Parliament began at 11 am on Monday. The session is being held today in the old Parliament building, and MPs will move into the new building on September 19, the second day of the special session. Former Andhra CM's arrest was also raised at the all-party meeting here on Sunday which led to a heated argument between the TDP and YSR Congress MPs According to the sources, Kinjarapu has demanded the intervention of the central government to protect democracy in Andhra Pradesh. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh immediately took up the issue and asked everyone to maintain the dignity of the all-party meeting. Chandrababu Naidu was sent to judicial custody on September 10 for 14 days, till September 23, by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) court in Vijayawada in connection with an alleged Skill Development Corporation scam. The case in which Naidu is arrested pertains to the establishment of clusters of Centres of Excellence (CoEs) in the state of Andhra Pradesh, with a total estimated project value of Rs 3300 crore, as per the officials. The agency officials also claimed that the alleged fraud has caused a huge loss to the state government in excess of Rs 300 crore. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his opening speech during the special session of Parliament on Monday recalled the words of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee that governments will come and go, parties will form and collapse but the country should remain. He also highlighted former PM Jawaharlal Nehrus famous speech titled Tryst with Destiny delivered to the Constituent Assembly in 1947. "The echoes of Pandit Nehru's "At the stroke of the midnight..." in this House will keep inspiring us. In this House itself, Atal ji had said, "Sarkarein aayegi-jaayegi, partiyan banegi-bigdegi, lekin ye desh rehna chahiye. This echoes even to this day, PM Modi said in his speech. The Special Session of Parliament began on Monday and will continue till Friday. Initiating the discussion on the Parliamentary journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha achievements, experiences, memories and learnings in the Lok Sabha, the Prime Minister also referred to the Parliament shifting to the new building on Tuesday and said bidding goodbye to this building is an emotional moment. Referring from the times of Pandit Nehru and Lal Bahadur Shastri to Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh, the Prime Minister said that they have given new direction to the nation under their leadership and today is an occasion to highlight their achievements. He also touched upon Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Ram Manohar Lohia, Chandra Shekhar, Lal Krishna Advani and others who have enriched the discussions in the House and emboldened the voice of the common citizens. PM Modi also highlighted the address by various foreign leaders in the House which brings to the fore their respect for India. He also recalled moments of pain when the nation lost three Prime Ministers while still in office- Nehru, Shastri and Indira. The Prime Minister also recalled the dexterous handling of the house by the speakers despite many challenges. He said they created reference points in their decisions. He remembered that 17 Speakers including 2 women from Mavlankar to Sumitra Mahajan to Om Birla everyone contributed in their way, taking everyone along. "Several historic decisions and solutions to issues pending for several decades were made in this House. The House will always say proudly that (abrogation of) Article 370 became possible due to it. GST was also passed here. One Rank One Pension was passed by this House. 10 per cent reservation for the Economically Weaker Section was successfully allowed in the country for the first time without any dispute, PM Modi said in his speech. The Prime Minister also acknowledged the contribution of the staff of the Parliament. "Many MPs attended the session despite health issues. During the COVID-19 crisis, our MPs attended the proceedings of both of the Houses and performed their duties, he said. The Prime Minister further said, With the feeling that India's growth journey should not be impacted, all the members considered this House as an important part of their duty...After independence, many critics thought about whether India would remain united or not but we proved all of them wrong... People's trust in the Parliament remains intact." PM also recalled the emotional moment of his entering the Parliament as an MP for the first time in 2014, saying he bowed down to honour the temple of democracy and could have never imagined that a child belonging to a poor family would be able to enter the Parliament. The Prime Minister said that many bitter-sweet memories are associated with the Parliament building. "Bidding goodbye to this building is an emotional moment...Many bitter-sweet memories have been associated with it. We have all witnessed differences and disputes in the Parliament but at the same time, we have witnessed 'Parivaar bhaav', he said. "When I first entered this building (Parliament) as an MP, I bowed down and honoured the temple of democracy. It was an emotional moment for me. I could have never imagined that a child belonging to a poor family, living on the railway platform would ever be able to enter the Parliament. I never imagined that I would get so much love from people," he added. (ANI) Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra Devendra Fadnavis has taken a jibe at Congress leader Sonia Gandhi over her six guarantees given in Telangana and said that wherever Congress gave guarantees, they could not fulfil even a single guarantee. Fadnavis made the remark while talking to reporters in Madhya Pradeshs Indore district on Monday. He has arrived here to participate in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)s Jan Ashirwad Yatra. I just want to ask the Congress leaders that in every state where the Congress gave guarantees, they could not fulfil even a single guarantee. They only lie, make promises during elections and later forget. They deceive people, Deputy CM Fadnavis said. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has changed people's lives in the last nine years. The change is visible. People are seeing that the country is moving forward and the people of India are with PM Modi," he added. Addressing a public rally in Telegana on Sunday, Sonia Gandhi said, To fulfil the aspiration of the people of Telangana, we (Congress) are announcing six guarantees, Mahalakshmi being the first one. We are committed to fulfilling each one of them. When asked about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi saying there is some case against every opposition leader but no case against Telangana CM, or AIMIM leaders, Fadnavis said "What Rahul Gandhi says in the morning is not remembered in the evening. Similarly what he (Gandhi) spoke in the evening was not known on the next day." "Rahul Gandhi may be a big leader of Congress but it is not necessary to take his statements seriously," he added. Coming down on the INDIA bloc, Fadnavis said, No one is ready to consider each other as a leader in INDI Alliance. There are twice as many leaders as there are parties here. This type of alliance will never work. The alliance should be such that it accommodates each other. "Everyday their statements are against each other and the biggest thing is that they have no existence in each others state. So even if people come together who have no existence in each other's state, no result can be achieved. West Bengal CM Mamta Banarjee cannot give any results by going to Uttar Pradesh. Similarly former CM of UP Akhilesh Yadav cannot give results by going to West Bengal," he added. Talking about Sanatan Dharma, he said, The oldest culture in India is Sanatan Dharma and no one should speak about anyones religion in this country. If someone speaks on Islam or Christianity, there will be an uproar. But speaking against Sanatan like this and calling yourself secular, I believe there is no greater foolishness than this. Speaking about the BJPs Yatra in Madhya Pradesh and in Rajasthan, he said, Jan Ashirwad Yatra in Madhya Pradesh and Parivartan Yatra in Rajasthan are getting good support from the people. We will return to power in both states. (ANI) Union Health Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya and the Kerala government held a meeting on Sunday regarding Nipah virus surveillance to improve the current situation. According to sources, at this meeting, the central team provided technical suggestions on surveillance, IEC material, testing, and contact tracing. "Therapeutic monoclonal antibody shots were offered to the state government for treatment of critical Nipah virus cases. As reviewed on September 17, 2023 by the Union Health Minister and Kerala government, it is unlikely to use Monoclonal Antibodies as eligible patients may not be available," said sources The Central teams (ICMR-National Institute of Virology, Pune; Doctors from Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital (RML Hospital), Delhi; National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Delhi; and National Institute of Epidemiology (NIE), Chennai) have been coordinating with state and district health authorities in outbreak investigation and containment measures. The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is in regular contact with the State and District Authorities and continues to monitor the situation. The first confirmation of the Nipah virus outbreak was reported on September 11, and six confirmed cases have been reported. A total of 1,233 contacts have been traced, of which 352 have been classified as high risk contacts that includes 129 healthcare workers, and 142 samples have been collected so far for testing as per the directions given by the government of India. Earlier, Mandaviya on Sunday said that several cases of Nipah have been found in Kerala and that the world's first Biosafety level 3 (BSL-3) lab is assisting the testing of the virus in the state. While speaking to the media, the Health Minister said, "Several cases of Nipah have been found in Kerala. the Centre has sent a team immediately to investigate it. The world's first Biosafety level 3 (BSL-3) lab will assist with the testing in Kerala. BSL-3 is arranged inside a bus. An expert team is also present in Kerala and is prepared to deal with any kind of situation." (ANI) The Supreme Court on Monday dissolved the Special Investigation Team (SIT) and relieved retired High Court judge Justice Rakesh Kumar Jain from the duty of monitoring the SIT probing into the Lakhimpur-Kheri violence matter. A bench of justices Surya Kant and Dipankar Datta order came while hearing the matter pertaining to the Lakhimpur Kheri violence matter. The court noted that the trial is also going on in both cases and nothing has left for the SIT to be done in the matters. The Court however clarified that it can pass an appropriate order for reconstituting the SIT if required in future. Earlier, the Supreme Court had appointed a committee headed by retired Punjab and Haryana High Court judge Rakesh Kumar Jain to monitor the probe into the Lakhimpur Kheri violence. Presently, Ashish Mishra, who is accused in the case is out on interim bail granted by the Supreme Court. On July 26, 2022, the Allahabad High Court denied bail to Ashish Mishra, the son of Union Minister Ajay Mishra, in connection with the Lakhimpur Kheri violence case. The bail was rejected by the Lucknow bench of Allahabad High Court. The said order is challenged by Ashish Mishra in the Supreme Court filed through advocate on record T Mahipal. Mishra is facing a case of murder for the incident that took place on October 3, 2021, in which eight people, including four farmers, were killed in Lakhimpur Kheri. Mishra allegedly ran over the farmers who were protesting against the Centres three farm laws. He was arrested on October 9 and granted bail in February 2022. Mishra, again moved to the High Court as the Courts earlier order was set aside by the Supreme Court in April 2022 and had ordered fresh consideration of his bail plea. The top court earlier had set aside the Allahabad High Court order dated February 10, 2022, and remitted the matter back to the High Court. The top court had said that the order of the Allahabad High Court cannot be sustained and had to be set aside and the bail bonds of the respondent/accused are cancelled. The Court had directed Ashish Mishra to surrender within a week. Family members of the victims of the Lakhimpur Kheri incident moved the Supreme Court challenging the Allahabad High Court order, which granted bail to Ashish Mishra. The top court cancelled the bail plea of Mishra. (ANI) Rajya Sabha took up discussion on Parliamentary journey of 75 years on Monday on the first day of the Special Session of Parliament with Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar stating that weaponising disruption and disturbance as a strategy would never get sanction of people. He suggested eschewing confrontational posturing and noted that contentious issues were negotiated in a spirit of consensus in the Constituent Assembly. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who is a member of the Upper House, came to attend the proceedings. The five-day Special Session of Parliament will continue till September 22. Dhankhar extended greetings to members at the beginning of the Special Session and said it offers a befitting opportunity to reflect and introspect on Parliamentary journey of 75 starting from Samvidha Sabha - achievements, experiences, memories and learnings. "We are having a very important discussion in this session. The six-hour discussion will be held and all members will get a chance to speak as per schedule," he said. "The journey had historical moments - from Tryst with Destiny at Midnight of August 15, 1947, to unfolding of innovative forward-looking GST regime at midnight of June 30, 2017, and now this day," he added. Deliberations in the Constituent Assembly in various sessions spread over three years exemplified decorum and healthy debate, he noted. "Contentious and highly divisive issues were negotiated in a spirit of consensus. There is enough takeaway from this for us all," said the Rajya Sabha Chairman. Dhankar also pointed out that healthy debate is the hallmark of a blossoming democracy and suggested that "we must eschew confrontational posturing." "Weaponising disruption and disturbance as a strategy would never secure the sanction of the people. We all are constitutionally ordained to nurture democratic values and must justify and vindicate the trust of the people. We owe it to the nation to optimally utilise the opportunity and time to serve the public interest. Initiating the debate, Leader of the House Piyush Goyal said that the debate would improve the functioning of Parliament, and appealed to parliamentarians to articulate the differences in opinion with decorum and dignity and not as manbhed. The five-dayspecial sessionofParliament started in the old building on Monday. The parliamentary proceedings will shift from the new building on September 19. The government has eight legislative items on its agenda for the session. The announcement of the special session came as a surprise in political circles with the parties gearing up for assembly polls in five states later this year. (ANI) Congress leader KC Venugopal on the first day of the special session of Parliament said that the new Parliament building is not important but the discussion inside it is very important. Today is the last day of Parliamentary proceedings in the old building. From tomorrow, proceedings will take place in the new Parliament building just beside the old one. Venugopal told ANI The old building is very beautiful, what is the problem in this one? Buildings are not important but the discussion inside them is very important. Parliament is for strengthening democracy and raising the concerns of the poor people of the country. When you talk about building, it will never give results but the discussion will. Congress leader further spoke on the women reservation bill and said if the government has any sincerity they should pass this in the special session. We are totally for women reservation, if they (the government) have any sincerity they should pass women reservation bill in this session. our LoP has told this in Rajya sabha too, Venugopal said. Congress leader Deepender Singh Hooda also spoke on the last day of old Parliament building and said that he considers himself fortunate that his family has a part in this journey of 75 years. It is an emotional moment for all of us, I consider myself fortunate that our family also had a part in this journey of 75 years. My grandfather was released from the British prison and after release he had taken oath in this Parliament only, he was a Member of this Parliament till 1978. After that, my father was a member here and since the last 20 years, I got this opportunity. It is not easy to define this Parliament, Deepender Singh Hooda told ANI. The Special Session of the Parliament began at 11 am on Monday. The session today will be held in the old Parliament building, and MPs will move into the building on September 19, the second day of the special session. Earlier in the day, while, addressing media persons outside Parliament, PM Modi said that all decisions of the time to make India a developed country by 2047 will be taken in the new Parliament building. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday recalled the significant historical moments that took place in the old Parliament building over the last 75 years. Addressing a special five-day session of Parliament that began here on Monday the Prime Minister initiated the discussion in the lower house on the Parliamentary journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha achievements, experiences, memories and learnings. From tomorrow proceedings of the Parliament will be held in the new building. The Prime Minister said it was an emotional moment to bid goodbye to the building that served as the Imperial Legislative Council before Indias independence and was recognised as the Parliament of India post-independence. He pointed out that even though the decision to construct this building was made by foreign rulers, it was the hard work, dedication and money spent by Indians that went towards its development. In the journey of 75 years, PM Modi said, this house has created the best of the conventions and traditions which has seen the contribution of all and witnessed by all. We might be shifting to the new building but this building will keep on inspiring the coming generation. As it is a golden chapter of the journey of Indian democracy, he said. Here are the key highlights from his speech 1. The PM spoke about G20 success as an achievement for India. The Prime Minister said that the success of G20 is of 140 crore Indians and not of any particular individual or party. He underlined the success of more than 200 events in more than 60 places in India as a manifestation of the success of Indias diversity. India will always feel pride for the inclusion of the African Union in G20 during its presidency, he said recalling the emotional moment of the inclusion. Pointing out the negative tendencies of a few people to create doubt about the capabilities of India, the Prime Minister stated that a consensus was achieved for the G20 Declaration and a roadmap for the future was created here. Underlining that Indias G20 Presidency lasts till the final day of November, and the nation intends to utilize it to the fullest, the Prime Minister supported the Speakers resolution to conduct a P20 Summit (Parliamentary 20) under his chairship. In his last speech in the old Parliament building PM Modi said, It is a matter of pride for all that India has carved a place for itself as Vishwa Mitra and the entire world is seeing a friend in India. The reasons for that are our Sanskaars that we gathered from Vedas to Vivekanand. The Mantra of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas is uniting us to bring the world with us 2. The PM remembered the addresses of all leaders from President Rajendra Prasad, APJ Abdul Kalam to Ramnath Kovind and Droupadi Murmu. PM Modi He referred to the times of former Prime Ministers from Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Lal Bahadur Shastri to Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh. "...The echoes of Pandit Nehru's 'At the stroke of the midnight...' in this House will keep inspiring us. In this House itself, Atal ji had said, "Sarkarein aayegi-jaayegi, partiyan banegi-bigdegi, lekin ye desh rehna chahiye. (Governments will come and go. Parties will be made and unmade. This country should survive, its democracy should survive). This echoes even to this day..." PM Modi said. He also touched upon the contributions of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Ram Manohar Lohia, Chandra Shekhar, Lal Krishna Advani and others who have enriched the discussions in the House and emboldened the voice of the common citizens. The Prime Minister recalled moments of pain when the nation lost three Prime Ministers while still in office- Pandit Nehru, Lal Bahadur Shastri and Indira Gandhi. He recalled the dexterous handling of the house by the speakers despite many challenges. He said they created reference points in their decisions. He remembered that 17 Speakers including two women- from GV Mavlankar to Sumitra Mahajan to Om Birla everyone contributed in their way, taking everyone along. The Prime Minister also acknowledged the contribution of the staff of the Parliament. 3. PM Modi recollected his personal journey from the platform of a railway station to ParliamentThe Prime Minister recalled the "emotional moment" when, as the first-time MP, he came to Parliament and paid his obeisance by bowing to the building. It is the power of the democracy of India that a poor child who used to earn livelihood on a railway station reached Parliament. I never imagined that the nation would give me this much love, respect and blessings, he said. "...When I first entered this building (Parliament) as an MP, I bowed down and honoured the temple of democracy. It was an emotional moment for me. I could have never imagined that a child belonging to a poor family, living on the railway platform would ever be able to enter the Parliament. I never imagined that I would get so much love from people," he said. 4. Prime Minister Modi shared various records made in the Parliament Giving a rough estimation, the Prime Minister informed that more than 7500 public representatives have served in both Houses where the number of women representatives is approximately 600. He informed that Indrajit Gupta has served for almost 43 years in this House, and Shafiqur Rahman had served at the age of 93 years. He also mentioned Chandrani Murmu was elected to the House at the age of 25. 5. The PM said echoes of representatives turned Parliament into a pilgrimage Parliament is where Bhagat Singh and Battukeshwar Dutt had created panic among the British with their valour and courage, PM said in his speech. Recalling the scepticism during the initial years of the Independence about the viability of the new nation, the Prime Minister said that it is the strength of the Parliament that all the doubts proved wrong. Throwing light on the ritual of Naad Brahma when a place turns to pilgrimage owing to the constant incantations in its vicinity, the Prime Minister said that the echoes of the 7500 representatives have turned the Parliament into a pilgrimage even if discussions cease here. 6. PM Modi recalled the work of Babasaheb Ambedkar and Syama Prasad Mukherjee Recalling the first Council of Ministers, the prime minister remembered how BR Ambedkar included best practices from all over the world. He also mentioned the brilliant water policy made by Babasaheb in the Nehru Cabinet. The Prime Minister mentioned the emphasis of Ambedkar over industrialization for the empowerment of Dalits and how Syama Prasad Mukherjee brought the first Industrial Policy as the first Industry Minister. 7. The Prime Minister spoke about 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat' and shared historic occasions witnessed in the parliament from the Green Revolution to Cash for Votes and historic decisions like OROP, GST and the scrapping of Article 370. "The House will always say proudly that (abrogation of) Article 370 became possible due to it. GST was also passed here. One Rank One Pension was witnessed by this House. 10 per cent reservation for the Economically Weaker Section was successfully allowed the country for the first time without any dispute," Prime Minister said. The Prime Minister said that it was in the Parliament building that Lal Bahadur Shastri emboldened the spirits of the Indian soldiers during the war of 1965. He also touched upon the foundations of the Green Revolution which was laid down by Shastri. PM Modi highlighted that the war for Bangladeshs independence was also a result of the house under the leadership of Indira Gandhi. He also touched upon the attack on democracy during the emergency and the reemergence of the power of the people after the emergency was lifted. The Prime Minister mentioned the formation of the Ministry of Rural Development under the leadership of former PM Charan Singh. The reduction of the voting age from 21 to 18 also took place in this house, the Prime Minister asserted. He recalled the nation adopting new economic policies and measures under the leadership of PV Narasimha Rao at a time when the country was reeling under economic distress. He also spoke about Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, under PM Vajpayee and the formation of the Tribal Affairs Ministry and the advent of the nuclear age under his aegis. 8. In his speech, Prime Minister Modi recounted various new states created in the parliament He highlighted the creation of three new states during Vajpayee's leadership including Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand and Jharkhand and lamented the attempts to usurp power in the creation of Telangana. He also pointed out that there were no celebrations in either state as the bifurcation was carried out with malicious intent. 9. The PM said that the 2001 terrorist attack on Parliament was an attack on the soul of India.Prime Minister said that the attack on the building was an attack on the Mother of Democracy itself. It was an attack on the soul of India, he said. He acknowledged the contributions of those who stood between the terrorists and the House to protect its members and paid tributes to bravehearts who lost their lives in the attack. 10. In his speech, the Prime Minister said that the shifting of the Parliament to the new building is a link of the past with the future The Prime Minister underlined that the present members of the House are extremely lucky as they get the opportunity to become a link of the past with the future as he mentioned bidding farewell to the old building tomorrow. Todays occasion is a moment of pride for the 7500 representatives who have derived inspiration from within the walls of the Parliament, PM Modi said. PM Modi applauded the contribution of unsung contributors like workers, security persons, journalists and others who have dedicated their lives to reporting the proceedings of the Parliament. The Prime Minister said that bidding farewell to the Old Parliament will be an even tougher task for them as they have been connected with the establishment more than its members. The Prime Minister concluded his address by expressing confidence that the members will move to the new building with great zeal and enthusiasm. (ANI) According to the police, the deceased was living with his family and was found dead in his bedroom this morning. The primary investigation of the police suggests Girish Babu died of a heart attack. The Kalamassery police has filed an FIR with Cr no 2075/23 under section 174 CrPC in the matter. Further investigation into the matter is underway, the officials said. Babu had filed several public interest litigations, including the plea seeking a vigilance probe against Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayans daughter Veena Vijayan in connection with an alleged bribery case. After a vigilance court recently rejected his petition, Girish approached the Kerala High Court challenging the petition. He has also filed a plea seeking a vigilance probe into the Palarivattom flyover scam. (ANI) The Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) on Monday reiterated the decision of the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee, asking Karnataka to continue releasing 5,000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu for another 15 days. This was decided at the meeting of the CWMA, held in the national capital. After the meeting, CWMA, in a press note said, "Taking note of the severity of the drought in the Cauvery basin of Karnataka, which has been increasing and enlarging putting at a greater risk even the drinking water needs and minimum needs of irrigation, Karnataka made submissions that it is not in a position to release the water unless the inflows into the reservoirs improves." "In turn, Tamil Nadu urged for releasing a total 12,500 cusecs of water (which is inclusive of backlog of 6,500 cusecs) for next 15 days. Finally, CWMA duly upholding the recommendations of CWRC has ordered that Karnataka has to ensure 5000 cusecs realization at Biligundlu for the next 15 days as indicated by CWRC, effective from September 13," it added. The next meeting of the Authority is scheduled for September 26. Meanwhile, former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda on Monday said that the "quarrel" among Karnataka and Tamil Nadu will not be solved "legally" and that a solution will come out only after both sides sit together. The Rajya Sabha MP, with folded hands, requested Tamil Nadu and Karnataka to sit together and sort out the problem. While speaking during the discussion on 'Parliamentary journey of 75 years, starting from Samvidhan Sabha-Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings', the JD(S) MP in the Upper House said, "...Just only one word I would like to say, this quarrel will not be solved legally. If at all for friends who wants to have some sort of smooth understanding. Let all of us sit together and sort out the problem. Otherwise things will continue...and struggle from both sides will go on and this is not going to solve the problem...It's a humble request...I only pray this problem will not be solved unless we sit together (and) try to sort out this problem from our sides. Legal battles certainly will not be going out to solve out this problem." Moreover, Tamil Nadu Water Resource Minister Durai Murugan is in Delhi with a delegation of MPs and MLAs to meet with Union Water Resource Minister Gajendra Shekhawat in an effort to break the impasse over water release. Karnataka has cited severe drought in parts of its state to refuse supply of water to Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu Government has accused its neighbour of lying to the nation on the supply of water. Farmers in Mandya, Karnataka have been protesting the release of Cauvery waters to Tamil Nadu. Farmers in Karnataka's Mandya district have expressed deep discontent at the state government complying with directives of the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) to release Cauvery river water to Tamil Nadu The governments of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have been locked in a protracted tussle over the sharing of Cauvery waters. The river is seen as a major source of sustenance for the people in either state. The Centre formed the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) on June 2, 1990, to adjudicate disputes between Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Puducherry with respect to their individual water-sharing capacities. (ANI) These special yoga classes for soldiers, a joint initiative by the Southern Regional Command of the Indian Army and the Isha Yoga Center, were launched on Independence Day, August 15th. The program aimed to provide free yoga training to approximately 10,000 soldiers across various locations. The 15-day Hatha Yoga instructor class took place from September 1st to September 15th at the Isha Yoga Center in Coimbatore, with 84 soldiers from the Southern Regional Division of the Army and 20 naval personnel participating. They received training in Surya Kriya, Angamardhana, and Upa Yoga practices and were prepared to teach yoga to their fellow soldiers within their units. These yogic exercises help soldiers better cope with the challenges and pressures they encounter during their duties, said officials. (ANI) Congress Rajya Sabha MP Randeep Surjewala slammed the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government over the floods at Omkareshwar saying that the Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister has committed a crime against the divine. "At first they undertook corruption in Mahakal, now they have drowned Omkareshwar town. BJP especially Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has committed a crime against the divine," Surjewala said in a press conference in Bhopal on Monday. Claiming the floods to be a human-made disaster, Surjewala said that water was not allowed to flow from the Omkareshwar dam so that the road leading to Omkareshwar would not flood. "On 11 September, the water capacity at the Omkareshwar dam was 47 per cent and by 17th it became 84.5 per cent. In the meanwhile, Shivraj Singh Chouhan was scheduled to visit the place where construction work is going on for the Adi Shankaracharya statue...Instead of releasing water from the dam gradually, it was stopped so that the Chief Minister does not have to bear the trouble," Surjewala described. "When Shivraj Singh reached there, 12000 cusecs of water was released from all 23 gates at 1 am at night, without informing the citizens of Omkareshwar. This led to houses, shops and ashrams getting submerged," he added. Expressing the magnitude of the floods, Surjewala said, "For the first time, water level reached the steps of Lord Shivs Jyotirling. They would have even drowned that." The Congress MP demanded an apology from the Chief Minister and said that people from Madhya Pradesh would demand an answer from him. "The 8.5 crore people of Madhya Pradesh are demanding an answer from the Chief Minister. We demand that Shivraj Singh apologize to every citizen of Madhya Pradesh and compensate for the losses at Omkareshwar within a week," he said. Slamming the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government for the Mahakal scam, "Shivraj Singh Chouhan drags Mahakal into everything he speaks but when the deity was falling apart, how can you sleep, how can you sit on the Chief Ministers seat?" Surjewala said that the Congress government will order an investigation into the Mahakal corruption case as soon as it comes to power in the state. "Congress will come to power with the support of 8.5 crore people of Madhya Pradesh. God lies in people. We will order an investigation into the Mahakal corruption within a specific time frame as soon as our Council of Ministers are sworn in," Surjewala said. Madhya Pradesh will go to polls in November this year. The state will witness a direct contest between the ruling BJP and the Congress; the results will set the tone for the crucial 2024 Lok Sabha elections. (ANI) Tandon wrote a letter to BJP state president VD Sharma to resign from the primary membership and the state executive membership of the party. After the resignation, City Congress President Surjit Singh Chadha and acting president Golu Agnihotri had come to Pramod Tandon's house on his resignation to welcome him and invite him back to the Congress party. During this, Tandon said, I have been a companion of Madhavrao Scindia. When I joined the BJP with Jyotiraditya Scindia, we had great affection and togetherness but now Scndias priorities have changed. I have not talked to Scindia for six months. I am resigning because of BJPs arrogance and dictatorship. Seeing Kamal Nath's true dedication for the state, he is going to join the Congress. Kamal Nath is about to visit Indore on September 23, on the same day he will formally take membership of Congress again, he added. Notably, various BJP leaders, including Scindia supporters and a sitting MLA resigned from the BJP and joined the congress party ahead of the state assembly polls slated later this year. The state is scheduled to go for the Assembly polls later this year. Through the polls, the state will elect legislators from 230 Assembly constituencies. The last Assembly polls in 2018 saw the Congress coming to power, with veteran leader Kamal Nath taking oath as the chief minister. Nonetheless, a political upheaval rocked the state in 2020, after the then Congressman Jyotiraditya Scindia, along with 22 loyalist MLAs, switched over to the saffron camp. The Congress government fell after being reduced to a minority and the BJP formed the government, with Shivraj Singh Chouhan returning as chief minister. (ANI) Drawing an analogy to a family that shifts into a new home, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that it is a very emotional moment to bid farewell to the Old Parliament building. He reflected on the various moods that the House has witnessed in all these years and said that these memories are the preserved heritage of all the members of the house. Its glory also belongs to us, he added. He remarked that the nation has witnessed countless incidents related to the creation of New India in the 75-year-old history of this Parliament House and today is an opportunity to express respect for the ordinary citizen of India. The Prime Minister recalled when, as the first-time MP, he came to Parliament and paid his obeisance by bowing to the building. He said that it was an emotional moment and he could not have imagined that but he said It is the power of the democracy of India that a poor child who used to earn livelihood on a railway station reached Parliament. I never imagined that the nation would give me this much love, respect and blessings, he said. Quoting the Upanishad sentence inscribed on the gate of the Parliament, the Prime Minister said that the sages said to open the doors for the people and see how they attain their rights. Modi said that current and past members of the House are the witness to the correctness of this assertion. PM Modi highlighted the changing composition of the house with passage of the time as it grew more inclusive and representatives from all sections of society started coming to the House. Inclusive atmosphere has kept manifesting the aspirations of the people with full power, he said. The Prime Minister noted the contributions of women parliamentarians that have helped in growing the dignity of the House. Giving a rough estimation, the Prime Minister informed that more than 7500 public representatives have served in both Houses where the number of women representatives is approximately 600. He also informed that Indrajit Gupta Ji has served for almost 43 years in this House, and Shafiqur Rahman served at the age of 93 years. He also mentioned Chandrani Murmu who was elected to the House at the young age of 25. PM Modi further noted a sense of family in the House despite arguments and sarcasm and called this a major quality of the House as bitterness never lingers. He also remembered how, despite severe ailments, the members came to the House to perform their duties including during the difficult time of pandemic. Recalling the scepticism during the initial years of the Independence about the viability of the new nation, PM said that it is the strength of the Parliament that all the doubts proved wrong. The sittings of the Constituent Assembly for two years and 11 months in the same House and the adoption and promulgation of the Constitution, the Prime Minister said that In the 75 years the biggest achievement has been the continuously growing trust of the common citizen in their Parliament. He said that the house benefitted from the addresses of Presidents from Dr Rajendra Prasad, Dr Kalam to Ramnath Kovind to Droupadi Murmu. Referring from the times of Pandit Nehru and Lal Bahadur Shastri to Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh, the PM Modi said, "They have given new direction to the nation under their leadership and today is an occasion to highlight their achievements. He also touched upon Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Ram Manohar Lohia, Chandra Shekhar, Lal Krishna Advani and others who have enriched the discussions in the House and emboldened the voice of the common citizens." Modi also highlighted the address by various foreign leaders in the House which brings to the fore their respect for India. He also touched upon Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Ram Manohar Lohia, Chandra Shekhar, Lal Krishna Advani and others who have enriched the discussions in the House and emboldened the voice of the common citizens. Modi also highlighted the address by various foreign leaders in the House which brings to the fore their respect for India. He also recalled moments of pain when the nation lost three Prime Ministers while still in office- Nehru Ji, Shastri Ji and Indira Ji. Meanwhile, PM Modi also recalled the dexterous handling of the house by the speakers despite many challenges. He said they created reference points in their decisions. "17 Speakers including 2 women from Mavlankar to Sumitra Mahajan to Om Birla everyone contributed in their way, taking everyone along," he said. The Prime Minister also acknowledged the contribution of the staff of the Parliament. (ANI) The Supreme Court on Monday expressed disapproval over the delay by the Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly in deciding the disqualification petitions against 56 MLAs including Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and asked him to set a timeline for the hearing them within a week. A bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra said it had been asking the Speaker, Rahul Narwekar, to decide on the matter for four months. The Speaker cannot delay the proceedings under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution indefinitely and there has to be a sense of respect to the directions passed by the top court, the apex court said. "Order of this court requires the Speaker to decide proceedings within a reasonable period of time. We expect deference and dignity to the directions issued exercised using Constitutional power. We now direct procedural directions shall be issued by the Speaker within a week setting out a timeline to complete the proceedings. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta shall inform the court about what is the timeline being set for disposing of the proceedings," the bench said. During the hearing, CJI said that the Speaker has to dispose of the disqualification petitions pending before him. "You can't say that I will hear it in due course. You have to keep giving dates. It appears nothing has happened (since May)," the bench observed. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Speaker, said that he was being ridiculed despite being a Constitutional functionary. The top court noted that a total of 34 petitions filed by both groups of Shiv Sena against each other seeking the disqualification of 56 MLAs are pending before the Speaker. The apex court was hearing a plea filed in July by Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena seeking direction to the Speaker to take an expeditious decision on the disqualification petitions pending against rebel Sena MLAs led by Eknath Shinde. The plea was filed by MLA Sunil Prabhu of Uddhav Thackerays group of Shiv Sena. Speaker in brazen disregard to his constitutional duties as a neutral arbiter, has sought to delay the adjudications of the disqualification petitions, thereby, permitting the illegal continuance of Eknath Shinde as Chief Minister, against whom the disqualification petitions are pending for almost a year, the plea has said. Speakers conduct in choosing to deliberately delay the adjudication of the disqualification petitions filed by the Uddhav Thackeray group against the delinquent members of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, it has added. The disqualification pleas have been pending since the Maharashtra political crises started. The plea sought direction for the Speaker to decide disqualification petitions within a time-bound manner. Sunil Prabhu in his plea contended that in the present case, the delinquent MLAs against whom disqualification petitions are pending have committed brazenly unconstitutional acts which per se invite disqualification under Paras 2(1)(a), 2(1)(b), and 2(2) of the Tenth Schedule. The Speakers inaction in deciding the disqualification proceedings is an act of grave constitutional impropriety as his inaction is allowing MLAs who are liable to be disqualified to continue in the assembly and to hold responsible positions in the government of Maharashtra including that of the Chief Minister, the plea added. It is settled law that the Speaker while performing its functions under Para 6 of the Tenth Schedule, acts as a judicial tribunal, and is required to act in a fair and unbiased manner. The constitutional requirement of fairness enjoins upon the Speaker the obligation to decide the question of disqualification in an expeditious manner. Any unreasonable delay on the part of the Speaker in deciding the petitions for disqualification contributes to and perpetuates the constitutional sin of defection committed by the delinquent members, the petition stated. Prabhu said though the Supreme Court in its May 11 judgment asked the Speaker to decide pending disqualification petitions within a reasonable period, the Speaker has taken no steps in that regard. He said he has already submitted three representations on this score to the Speaker, but to no avail. The disqualification petitions against the rebel MLAs were filed by Sunil Prabhu, the Shiv Sena party Whip appointed by Uddhav Thackeray, on June 23, 2022 after the MLAs revolted against Thackeray. The notices of disqualification were issued by Deputy Speaker Narhari Zirwal in the absence of the Speaker. On May 11, a five-judge Constitution bench had held that it cannot disqualify the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government and reinstate Uddhav Thackeray as Chief Minster because the latter had chosen to resign instead of facing a test of strength in the Assembly. In August last year, the top court's three-judge bench had referred to a five-judge Constitution bench the issues involved in the petition filed by rival groups of Shiv Sena in relation to the Maharashtra political crisis. On June 29, 2022, the top court gave a go-ahead to the floor test in the Maharashtra Assembly on June 30. It had refused to stay the Maharashtra Governor's direction to the then Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray to prove his majority support on the floor of the House on June 30. After the apex court's order, Uddhav Thackeray announced his resignation as the Chief Minister and Eknath Shinde was later sworn in as the Chief Minister. (ANI) With just a day left for Ganesh Chaturthi festival, celebrations are in the air across the country. Devotees are waiting for arrival of the Gajanana and taking part in the festive gala. People are busy decorating their homes with flowers and rangoli designs and bring idols of Lord Ganesha into their homes. Markets and streets bustle with people from all walks of life to make last-minute purchases for the festival. Shopowners make huge sales of decoration materials, lights, lamps, crockery and clothes. Vendors sell flower garlands, fruits, sweets and 'Matoli' items such as betel nuts, local citrus fruits, coconuts and incense. Beautifully decorated Ganesh idols are crafted by artisans, students and idol-makers ahead of the festival. The markets of Goa's Panaji were filled with people to make last-minute purchases for the festival. "Ganesh Chaturthi will be celebrated across Goa tomorrow, the festivities may have just begun, but some preparations had been started well in advance. Shopkeepers have been busy selling all the essential items related to the puja of Lord Ganesha," a shop owner told ANI. Apart from Matoli bazaar, stalls with decorative articles and firecrackers were lined up in designated areas, making it a one-stop shopping for people visiting the municipal market, said another shopowner. Earlier today, Gowd Saraswat Brahman (GSB) Seva Mandal, ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi, installed an idol of Lord Ganesh adorned with 69 kg of gold and 336 kg of silver in Mumbai. A representative of the GSB Seva Mandal told ANI this year it received 36 kg of silver and a 250-gram gold pendant for Ganesh Chathurthi. Eco-friendly idols of lord Ganesha along with goddesses Saraswati and Laxmi were crafted in solid clay by a Bhubaneswar-based miniature artist ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in the state. Students from Tamil Nadu's Puducherry dedicated four months to meticulously designing a towering 15-foot-tall Ganesha idol ahead of the festival. Sri Sathya Ganapati Temple in Bengaluru's JP Nagar has been bedecked with currency notes and coins as part of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. Mumbais famous Lalbaugcha Rajas first look was unveiled on September 16 evening, days ahead of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. In the midst of the ongoing debate and controversy surrounding the installation of a Lord Ganesha idol at Idgah Maidan, Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation gave permission to Rani Channamma Maidan Gajanan Utsav Mahamandali, to install a Ganesha idol at Idgah Maidan. Although there are many types of ready-made items available in the market, Govind Pande, a shopkeeper in Hyderabad was busy selling unique decorative readymade Aasan of Bappa with beautiful backgrounds made of rubber foam which is reusable and Pandal of small to larger sizes made of cardboard. With the festival around the corner, Assams Fatasil area in Guwahati is all set to welcome the deity of prosperity by installing a 30-foot-tall idol of Lord Ganesha. As the city gears up for the festival, the demand for different models of Ganpati idols increased in Hyderabad with the Chandrayaan-3 model of idols being among the highest. The demand for Eco-friendly idols is also on the rise, local vendors said. Earlier, two weeks ago Gujarat's Surat city had already started gearing up for the festival. Shakti Group Organizer Surat City Ravi Kharadi told ANI that more than fifty thousand idols were installed during the Ganesh Utsav in Surat. Ganapati Special 'Modi Express' was flagged by MLA Nitesh Rane today in Mumbai's Dadar to provide a free travel facility for Konkani Ganesha devotees. To spread the message of environmental conservation, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and 'Big Green Ganesha' have launched 'Eco-Friendly Ganesha' idols in the city. Mayor Shelly Oberoi flagged off the 'Eco-Friendly Ganesha' Rath from the Civic Center today. Now 'Eco-Friendly Ganesha' idols will be available in all areas of Delhi. The Ganesh Chaturthi festival, which falls in the Bhadrapada month of the Hindu calendar, marks the birthday of Lord Ganesha, son of Shiva and Parvati. Also known as Vinayak Chaturthi or Ganeshotsav, the festival is marked with the installation of Ganesha's clay idols privately in homes and publicly on elaborate pandals (temporary stage). The 10-day festival ends when the idol is carried in a public procession with music and group chanting, then immersed in a nearby body of water such as a river or sea, called visarjan on the day of Anant Chaturdashi. The festival celebrates Ganesha as the God of New Beginnings and the Remover of Obstacles as well as the god of wisdom and intelligence. This year the Ganesh Chaturthi festival will begin on September 19 and will continue for 10 days until September 29. (ANI) Mumbai Police released a press note sharing details of elaborate arrangements to keep traffic moving during the festivities, includingdiversions, no-entry points and alternate routes. A total of 13,726 police personnel will be deployed across Mumbai during the Ganesh festival, police informed. Further, according to the media release issued by the police, a complete ban will be enforced on the movement of all types of heavy commercial vehicles andprivate buses in South Mumbai. Meanwhile, with just a day left for the Ganesh Chaturthi, there was an air of celebration and festive fervour not just in Maharashtra but across the country, on Monday. Across Ganesh pandals or mandals in Maharashtra, devotees are eagerly awaiting the arrival of 'Gajanana'. Locals are also busy decorating their homes with flowers and rangoli designs while also bringing idols of Lord Ganeshainto their homes. Markets and streets bustled with people, as they made their last-minute purchases for the festival. Shopowners logged robust sales of decorative materials, lights, lamps, crockery and clothes. Vendors were seen selling garlands, fruits, sweets and 'Matoli' items such as betel nuts, local citrus fruits, coconuts and incense. Exquisitely carvedGanesha idols by artisans and students awaited their arrival at mandals ahead of the festival. (ANI) The incident took place on US Highway 1 when the high winds hit the region, VOA reported. The storm brought destructive winds, rough surf and torrential rains to a large swath of New England and Maritime Canada, toppling trees, swamping coastlines and cutting power to tens of thousands. Police Chief Brian Lunt said the tree limb brought down live power lines and the utility workers had to cut power to help the man out. However, the man later died at a hospital, according to the police, reported VOA. Massachusetts experienced severe flash flooding as fast water washed out roads, caused sinkholes, damaged homes and flooded vehicles. Moreover, the storm caused power outages several hundred miles from the centre. During Saturday afternoon, 11 per cent of electricity customers in Maine were out of power, with 27 per cent in Nova Scotia, 8 per cent in New Brunswick and 3 per cent in Prince Edward Island, VOA reported. Tens of thousands were left without power on Saturday as storm 'Lee' barrelled towards northeast United States and areas in neighbouring Canada. The US administration, under President Joe Biden, issued an emergency declaration for Maine and was extending federal assistance for the state, Al Jazeera reported. We encourage all of those in the path of this large and dangerous storm to remain alert, White Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said at a news briefing. Louise Fode, a National Weather Service meteorologist said parts of coastal Maine could see waves up to 4.5 metres high crashing down, causing erosion and damage. Moreover, the strong gusts will cause power outages, the report stated further. (ANI) Amid the rising number of migrants in Lampedusa, EU President Ursula von der Leyen pledged action to help Italys crisis-hit island during her visit on Sunday, CNN reported. Von der Leyen visited a migrant reception centre on the island after the Italian Prime Minister urged the European leader to extend help to the island. The EU president's visit came after Mayor Filippo Mannino warned on Thursday about Lampedusa's migrant crisis saying that it had reached a "point of no return". At least 130,000 migrants have arrived on the shores of Italy this year, which is almost double as compared to the previous year, CNN reported. Addressing a press conference along with Italian PM Georgia Meloni, Von Der Leyen said, "We will decide who comes to the European Union and under what circumstances, and not the smugglers and traffickers. Meanwhile, Meloni and the EU Chief met on Sunday to "offer a coordinated response by the Italian and European authorities" Von Der Leyen informed. "We have an obligation as part of the international community. We have fulfilled it in the past and we will do so today and in the future," she added. The EU president stressed that migration is a European challenge. "Migration is a European challenge and it needs a European answer and solution," she said. Meloni said the problem of migrants crossing the Mediterranean to Europe cannot be solved by redistributing migrants within European borders but rather requires tackling the problem externally and preventing the departure of migrants, according to CNN. Von Der Leyen promoted legal pathways and humanitarian corridors as measures to counter smugglers lies. We will offer migrants real alternatives through this humanitarian admission. This is very important to break the vicious narrative of the smugglers, she added. Earlier, on Saturday, a newborn baby was found dead on a boat carrying people to Lampedusa even as dozens of the island's citizens protested over a surge in arrivals, Al Jazeera reported citing ANSA news agency. The Italian Coast Guard found the baby, saying that it was born during the journey and was found during a rescue operation. According to Al Jazeera, Lampedusa has seen thousands of landings this week alone, more than the island's permanent population. The situation has further triggered appeals for help from local politicians. The recent surge in arrivals has reignited the debate over how Europe shares responsibility for asylum seekers. (ANI) Santiniketan was inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage list during the 45th Session of the World Heritage Committee in Saudi Arabia on Sunday, the UN agency informed through a post on the social media platform 'X'. Responding to the post by Vishal V Sharma, India's ambassador and permanent representative to UNESCO, on X, Jaishankar wrote, "Congratulations. A fitting tribute to our first Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore and all those who have kept his message alive." https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1703476318191423642?s=20 Earlier, taking to his social media 'X', Vishal V Sharma said it is a great day for Indians as Santiniketan had been inscribed on UNESCO'S World Heritage List. "Santiniketan inscribed on UNESCOs World Heritage List (Agenda 45COM.8B.10). A great day for all Indians. Bharat Mata ki jai," he posted. He also shared a video from the moment when Santiniketan was announced to have been inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List. https://x.com/VishalVSharma7/status/1703398608375025878?s=20 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called the inclusion of West Bengals Santiniketan in the list of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites as a "proud moment for all Indians". Taking to X, PM Modi posted, Delighted that Santiniketan, an embodiment of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore's vision and India's rich cultural heritage, has been inscribed on the @UNESCO World Heritage List. This is a proud moment for all Indians. Established in 1901 by Tagore, Santiniketan was a residential school and centre for art based on ancient Indian traditions and a vision of the unity of humanity transcending religious and cultural boundaries. A world university was established at Santiniketan in 1921, recognising the unity of humanity or Visva Bharati. Distinct from the prevailing British colonial architectural orientations of the early 20th century and of European modernism, Santiniketan represents approaches toward pan-Asian modernity, drawing on ancient, medieval and folk traditions from across the region. India had been striving for a long to get a UNESCO tag for this cultural site located in the Birbhum district. Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, G Kishan Reddy, on Tuesday informed that Shantiniketan had been recommended for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list by The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS).(ANI) The Islamic Republic News Agency, or IRNA, is the official news agency of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Iranian President, who left in the early hours of Monday, is accompanied by a representative of the Supreme Leader Hojjat al-Islam Qomi, the first vice president Mohammad Mokhbar, and a number of ministers and delegate members. During his New York visit, Raisi will be speaking at the General Assembly, meeting with the heads of the countries, and giving a speech to Iranian expatriates. The Iranian president will also explain Irans positions and answer questions in meetings with political, social, religious and media groups and individuals in America, as per IRNA. As per the IRNA, the UNGAs annual meeting is a good opportunity for international political consultations, which also provides bilateral dialogues due to the presence of most of the high-ranking officials of the countries of the world. The 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly will feature the High-Level General Debate from September 19-September 23. The 78th session represents a crucial milestone in the journey towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) since it marks the halfway point to the global goals deadline. At the SDG Summit, leaders will review the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 17 SDGs, providing high-level political guidance on transformative and accelerated actions, according to the United Nations Women statement. The outcome will be a negotiated political declaration. (ANI) Joint Base Charleston said on Facebook that the aircraft was a Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II belonging to Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. The pilot ejected safely and was transported to a local medical centre. As per Fox News, the base is now working with Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort to help locate the missing aircraft. Emergency response teams have been deployed to find the jet. Joint Base Charleston said in a statement on Facebook: Based on the jets last-known position and in coordination with the FAA, we are focusing our attention north of JB Charleston, around Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion. "The public is asked to cooperate with military and civilian authorities as the effort continues," the base added, according to Fox News. Anyone with information about the jet's whereabouts is urged to contact JB Charleston Base Defense Operations Center at 843-963-3600. There is no additional information about the incident at this time. Authorities are actively investigating the situation. Fox News Digital reached out to Joint Base Charleston for more details, but none were available. (ANI) Indian American entrepreneur and Republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy has said that one of the things that he needs to do as US President is to enforce the civil rights law as they exist on the books. In his address at the Iowa Faith and Freedom Coalition Town Hall, Ramaswamy said, "There are two sides to the job. One is there are policies the US president should stand for and where I begin is not what I need to ask Congress to do, most of those promises are never fulfilled, repeal and replace Obama Care you might remember that it didn't happen it's not anyone's fault just Congress is designed to act slowly if at all. One of the things I need to do is as US president enforce the civil rights laws as they exist on the books." He said that modern wokeness showcases as a sort of religion in the US which indicates that you can't speak certain words or wear certain clothes. He stated that he will instruct the US Department of Justice to enforce all civil rights laws "even-handedly rather than in a one-sided way." "I wrote a book about this I think that modern wokeness reflects a sort of religion in this country, actually certain words you can't say clothes you can't wear, apologies you must recite, excommunication procedures that must be initiated. Well one of the things is the Supreme Court's been clear that even secular humanism meets the test for what counts as a religion, if that does woekism does too turns out to be a religion ... you can't force an employee to bow down to your religion," he said. "Well if wokeness meets the Supreme Court's test for what counts as a religion then that's what we're seeing across this country is actually a civil rights violation where ordinary Americans should not be forced to choose between speaking their minds freely and putting food on the dinner table, between the American dream and the First Amendment. We're the nation on Earth where you get to enjoy both of those things at the same time that's what it means to be an American and that in many ways is a violation under current law already so I'll instruct the Department of Justice to enforce all civil rights laws even-handedly rather than in a one-sided way," he added. He stressed that the US President is more than a binder of politics. He recalled that his parents 40 years back came to the country with no money and now he is the founder of multi-billion dollar companies. Vivek Ramaswamy said, "I will say the other thing though and I think this is even more important the US president is more than a binder of policies and I think we forget that sometimes I think the US president sets an example of what is possible in this country my parents came here with no money 40 years ago." He further said, "I have gone on to found multi-billion dollar companies if I take office I'll be doing it if you all put me there at the age of 39 setting an example of what is possible for every kid in this country regardless of their skin colour, regardless of where their parents came from, regardless of how long their last name is this is the United States of America where you get ahead with your own hard work, your own commitment your own dedication and that you're free to speak your mind at every step of the way. That is what it means to be an American and the standard that I want you all to hold me to if you put us in that position is I want to be able to you know, the two sons that we just put to bed before we came here ,I want to be able to look my two sons in the eye and to tell them that I want you to grow up and be like him whoever that is in the White House that's the standard that I want you all to hold Apoorva and I too when we're in that office as well." Ramaswamy said that the left is feeding people with race, gender, sexuality and climate and called it wokeness. "I think it's been a long time since we've had somebody who stands truly in the way they live their life and the values they stand for, faith and patriotism and hard work and family, and while the left is feeding us race, gender, sexuality, climate we'll call that wokeness we've fallen into the trap of pointing out all the reasons why that vision is wrong that's not good enough. We have to stand for the individual, the family, the nation and God, if we have the courage to actually stand for something we're not just running from something we're running to something and that's what we will revive in this country not just through our policies but through the example that we set," Ramaswamy said in his remarks at the Iowa Faith and Freedom Coalition Town Hall. Notably, the Indian American entrepreneur had shot up sharply in GOP primary polls, standing tied with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis at the second position. However, both candidates lag hugely behind former President Donald Trump who leads with 56 per cent, as per The Hill. In another poll by RealClearPolitics, Trump is far out in front of the 2024 GOP race with 53.6 per cent support, followed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis at 13.5 per cent, and Ramaswamy at 7.3 per cent, New York Post reported. The next US presidential election is scheduled for November 5, 2024. (ANI) A secret Pakistani arms sales to the United States helped facilitate a controversial bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) earlier this year, as per two sources aware of the arrangement, with confirmation from internal Pakistani and American government documents, The Intercept reported. The Intercept is an online American non-profit news organization. The arms sales were made for the purpose of supplying the Ukrainian military. This signals Pakistani involvement in a conflict it had faced US pressure to take sides on. As per The Intercept, the revelation is a window into the kind of behind-the-scenes manoeuvring between financial and political elites that rarely is exposed to the public, even as the public pays the price. Pakistan faced major protests in face of harsh structural policy reforms demanded by the IMF as terms for its recent bailout. There were several strikes in the country in response to the measures. The protests are the latest chapter in a year-and-a-half-long political crisis roiling the country. With the encouragement of the US, the Pakistani military in April 2022, helped organize a no-confidence vote to remove Prime Minister Imran Khan. Ahead of Khans ouster, US State Department diplomats privately expressed anger to their Pakistani counterparts over what they called Pakistans aggressively neutral stance on the Ukraine war under Khan. They warned of dire consequences if Khan remained in power and promised all would be forgiven if he were removed. After Khans ouster, Islamabad emerged as a useful supporter of the US and its allies in the war, assistance that has now been repaid with an IMF loan. The emergency loan allowed the new Pakistani government to put off a looming economic catastrophe and indefinitely postpone elections. A nonresident scholar at the Middle East Institute and specialist on Pakistan, Arif Rafiq, said: Pakistani democracy may ultimately be a casualty of Ukraines counteroffensive. As per The Intercept, Pakistan is known as a production hub for the types of basic munitions needed for grinding warfare. As Ukraine grappled with chronic shortages of munitions and hardware, the presence of Pakistani-produced shells and other ordinances by the Ukrainian military has surfaced in open-source news reports about the conflict, though neither the US nor the Pakistanis have acknowledged the arrangement. A source within the Pakistani military, leaked records detailing the arms transactions earlier this year. The documents describe munitions sales agreed to between the US and Pakistan from the summer of 2022 to the spring of 2023. The authentication process was done by matching the signature of an American brigadier general with his signature on publicly available mortgage records in the United States; by matching the Pakistani documents with corresponding American documents; and by reviewing publicly available but previously unreported Pakistani disclosures of arms sales to the US posted by the State Bank of Pakistan. Documents by Global Military Products reveal that the weapons deals were brokered. Global Military Products is a subsidiary of Global Ordnance, a controversial arms dealer whose entanglements with less-than-reputable figures in Ukraine were the subject of a recent New York Times article. Documents outlining the money trail and talks with US officials include American and Pakistani contracts, licensing, and requisition documents related to US-brokered deals to buy Pakistani military weapons for Ukraine. The economic capital and political goodwill from the arms sales played a key role in helping secure the bailout from the IMF, with the State Department agreeing to take the IMF into confidence regarding the undisclosed weapons deal, according to sources with knowledge of the arrangement, and confirmed by a related document, according to The Intercept. (ANI) Wang is visiting Russia from September 18 to 21, according to a statement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry. He is expected to meet Lavrov to discuss a wide range of bilateral cooperation issues, which include a detailed exchange of views on issues related to a settlement in Ukraine, according to a statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry last week. The meeting follows closely after the summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, which the US has warned could lead to Pyongyang supplying Moscow with munitions for its war in Ukraine, as per CNN. Meanwhile, the United States National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan recently met the Chinese Foreign Minister and noted the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. The meeting between the two leaders took place on September 16-17 in Malta, and it was part of ongoing efforts to maintain open lines of communication between the two countries, according to an official readout of the meeting between the two leaders, as per White House. "The United States noted the importance of peace and stability across theTaiwan Strait. The two sides committed to maintain this strategic channel of communication and to pursue additional high-level engagement and consultations in key areas between the United States and the Peoples Republic ofChinain the coming months," the official release read. The meeting comes after a number of other recent high-level meetings between the two nations. According to the readout, "The two sides discussed key issues in the US-China bilateral relationship, global and regional security issues, Russias war against Ukraine, and cross-Strait issues, among other topics." (ANI) Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) President Chaudhry Parvez Elahi has been shifted to Rawalpindis Adiala Jail on Sunday soon after a judicial magistrate discharged him in a case of alleged corruption in the Lahore Master Plan 2050, the Dawn newspaper reported. Elahi who is among several PTI leaders and workers arrested amid the states crackdown after May 9 violent protests was presented before the court following his arrest by the Punjab Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) in Rawalpindi on Saturday. It was the 12th time former Punjab Chief Minister Elahi was detained since June 1, one of his lawyers said. According to the Pakistan-based Dawn, the ACE team presented Elahi before the magistrate to secure his physical remand. Advocate Rana Intizar Hussain, president of the Lahore Bar Association, appeared on behalf of Elahi and rebutted the ACEs arguments. Hussian said that Elahi's arrest clearly violated a contempt petition pending before the Lahore High Court (LHC). Advocate Hussain also requested the court to start contempt proceedings against the investigating officer who had arrested the PTI President. After hearing the arguments and examining the record, Judicial Magistrate Rehanul Hassan said that the prosecutor had admitted that no wrongful loss was caused by the suspect to any company or any government institution or department, including the Lahore Development Authority. The magistrate said that the case was based on statements made by the director of the master plan and the chief metropolitan planner, who had not been treated as suspects. He called it surprising that those who misused their authority as alleged in the FIR were enjoying liberty while Elahi was detained despite having no direct role. While releasing Elahi, the magistrate said, "The discharge never amounts to an acquittal because acquittal is the sweet will of the learned trial court, which is fully competent to summon the accused to face trial even if he was discharged," Dawn reported. He said no incriminating material was apparently available against the suspect that could relate him to the alleged offence. He further said that Chaudhry Parvez Elahi is hereby discharged in the case. Separately, the magistrate permitted the ACE Lahore a one-day transit remand of Elahi to take him back to Adiala Jail for his subsequent production before an anti-terrorism court in Islamabad in a case connected to the May 9 riots. (ANI) Abu Dhabi [UAE], September 18 (ANI/WAM): Rabdan Academy is organising the upcoming 2023 Graduation Ceremony on Wednesday at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), under the patronage of UAE's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This year's graduation ceremony will celebrate the achievements of more than 600 students who have completed their studies in various strategic disciplines within security and defence. Among the programmes completed by these graduates are the Master of Science in Systems Engineering Specialising in Defence, Master of Science in Intelligence Analysis, Master of Science in Policing and Security Leadership, Bachelor of Science in Policing and Security, Bachelor of Science in Integrated Emergency Management, Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security, Bachelor of Science in Comprehensive Police Station Management, Bachelor of Science in Business Continuity Management, Higher Diploma in Integrated Emergency Management, Higher Diploma in Policing and Security and Diploma in Crime Scene. President of Rabdan Academy James Morse stated, At Rabdan Academy, we carry a great message, and through our pioneering programmes, we engage in ambitious partnerships with strategic allies to provide qualified graduates to various UAE's institutions. These graduates have acquired diverse knowledge, skills, and experiences during their studies at the Academy, enabling them to make significant contributions to the advancement of the UAE and its global progress and to enhance national resilience in the fields of safety, security, defence, emergency preparedness and crisis management. Vice President of Rabdan Academy Salem Saeed Al Saeedi said, "Words are insufficient to describe our anticipation for this momentous occasion. We are eager to celebrate and honour this distinguished cohort of graduates who aspire to build and preserve the UAE. They will join the past Academy graduates, who emerged from specialised national programmes, bolstering the labour market and enhancing our competitive capabilities." The graduation ceremony will include hundreds of scholarship graduates from various national entities, such as the Crown Prince's Court, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Defence, the Presidential Court, Abu Dhabi Police, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, Borouge, Rabdan Academy, and the Emirates Centre for Strategic Studies and Research. It will also feature self-funded graduates and international students from Bahrain, Malaysia, and Indonesia. (ANI/WAM) The Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antnio Guterres, has stated that two years have passed since the ban on girls education in Afghanistan, and this unjust violation of human rights continues, The Khaama Press reported on Monday. Guterres said on his social media platform X, Two years have passed since the ban ongirls attendance in schools in Afghanistan. This is an unjustifiable violation of human rights that inflicts long-term damage on the entire country. The Khaama Press reported that the girls in Afghanistan are the primary victims of Taliban policies. Earlier, The UN special rapporteur for Afghanistan, Richard Bennet, called on the Taliban to reverse the draconian, misogynist policies against women and allow them to work and run businesses, Tolo News reported. Speaking to the 54th Regular Session of the Human Rights Council, Bennett said 60,000 women have lost their jobs due to recent restrictions of the interim Afghan government. The education and work of girls and women are the two main issues that sparked reactions at an international level. Meanwhile, the representatives of some countries who attended the meeting also voiced concerns over the restrictions on Afghan girls and women in access to education and work. Lubna Qassim, UAE Deputy Representative to the UN Human Rights Council, said the significant humanitarian challenges facing Afghanistan will have a significant negative impact on the Afghani society and its future. Lubna Qassim, added that there is no positive progress on the ban imposed by the Taliban government on universities, education for girls, and their exclusion from working and civil society organizations national and international humanitarian organizations, Tolo News reported. Notably, with the resurgence of the Taliban in August 2021 in Afghanistan, the countrys educational system has suffered a significant setback. As a result, girls have been deprived of access to education, and seminaries or religious schools have gradually filled the void left by schools and universities. Afghanistan's women have faced numerous challenges since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. Girls and women in the war-torn country have no access to education, employment and public spaces. It has imposed draconian restrictions on the rights to freedom of expression, association, assembly, and movement for women and girls. Taliban leaders have also disregarded international calls for women and girls to be given access to education and employment. Apparently, they have also issued warnings to other nations not to meddle in Afghanistan's domestic affairs. Taliban have also barred girls from attending secondary school, restricted women and girls' freedom of movement, excluded women from most areas of the workforce and banned women from using parks, gyms and public bath houses. (ANI) Pakistans Islamabad High Court (IHC) issued a notice to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khans petition seeking post-arrest bail in the cypher case, Geo News reported on Monday. According to Geo News, the court notice came during Imran Khans bail plea hearing challenging the special courts decision in the Cypher Case. The court had scheduled the date of hearing the bail plea on Monday. IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq issued notices in response to the plea filed by lawyer Salman Safdar on behalf of the PTI chief. The PTI chief's legal team repeatedly urged for an early hearing of the case, following which the IHC chief justice emphasised that there is a proper procedure in place, and the case will be decided accordingly. The FIA has been directed to submit its response to the PTI chief's petition. Khan and Qureshi are on judicial remand in the cypher case till September 26. Earlier, a special court rejected the bail applications of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan and the party's vice chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi in the cypher case, Geo News reported on Thursday. Special court Judge Abual Hasnat Zulqarnain heard the bail applications and reserved the verdict after PTI's counsels completed their arguments. Later, the judge announced the reserved verdict, rejecting the post-arrest bail pleas of the PTI leaders. On September 16, the same court established under the Official Secrets Act approved PTI leader Asad Umars bail in the case related to US cypher after a prosecutor told the judge that his arrest was not required at this stage, Geo News reported. Judge Zulqarnain approved the PTI leader's bail against the surety bond of Rs50,000 and also noted that Umar expressed willingness to join the cypher probe but the prosecution did not investigate him in the case.If Asad Umar's arrest is required, FIA [Federal Investigation Agency] will proceed according to law, the judge ordered. He also directed the FIA to inform the PTI leader in advance before arresting him in the case. Notably, the FIA booked PTI chief Khan and the partys vice chairman Qureshi under the Official Secrets Act last month for allegedly misplacing and misusing classified documents for vested political interests Subsequently, both leaders were arrested in connection with the investigation into the case and a special court was established under the Official Secrets Act to try the accused. (ANI) As Anantnag encounter against Pakistan-backed terrorists enters day 6 in the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Dr Shabir Choudhary, a PoK activist living in exile in London, said he had a foreboding that Pakistani terrorists could launch an attack on security forces in Kashmir. He revealed that he shared his premonition in advance. Dr Shabir said he told his friends, Pakistan had started infiltration in Kashmir and subjects from Pakistan had started going to Kashmir to carry out Jihad, terrorism or for creating some kind of mayhem, consequently there could be conflict and restlessness among the people of (Indias Union Territory) Jammu and Kashmir. I had said it 8-10 days before the (Anantnag) incident and there were some activities happening there (Jammu and Kashmir (UT)) during that time. Although the activist said, he had no prior information about the terrorist activity but his continuous analysis of the movements of Pakistani intruders in PoK and Gilgit Baltistan enabled him to make that premonition. The activist offered condolences to the bereaved families of the brave security forces personnel and condemned Pakistan for the terrorist activities it has been carrying out in border areas of Jammu and Kashmir. Dr. Shabir said, When you critically look at any situation and do a forecast or a prediction or do some analysis, sometimes those analyses go right and sometimes wrong. It doesnt mean that I had some information. So I said it during that time and my prediction was right. He added, Now also I am saying, there will be consequences of this action (Anantnag incident) and there is a price to be paid! Who is going to pay for it? The People of Jammu and Kashmir have been paying it since 22ndOctober 1947 but this time I am sure the culprits (Terrorists from Pakistan) behind this (Anantnag incident) who are behind this bloodshed and chaos (in Kashmir), will suffer and pay for it as well. Dr Shabir Choudhary lambasted Pakistan against its infiltration activities in the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, he asserted, The culprits (Pak-backed terrorists) will pay the price. (ANI) The Mahabodhi Society of Sri Lanka organised a special religious ceremony to mark the 73rd birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a release said. The special ceremony held on September 17 at Mahabodhi Society Sri Lanka was graced by Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena as the chief guest. Upatissa Nayaka Thero, the President of Chief Sangha Nayaka for Japan, referred to the occasion of the 73rd birthday of Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi in his remarks and mentioned that a special religious ceremony is being conducted by Mahabodhi Society in the evening, the release added. He recalled his visits to India and the great mutual respect and rapport he shared with PM Modi. Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena also referred to PM Modis 73rd birth anniversary and conveyed his greetings in his remarks. Under the leadership of Upatissa Nayaka Thero, the Mahabodhi Society organised a commemorative ceremony marking the 159th Birth Anniversary of great Sri Lankan Buddhist reformer and religious leader Srimath Anagarika Dharmapala. The Government of India issued a commemorative postage stamp in the memory of Srimath Anagarika Dharmapala in 2014. Theros of various Buddhist units in Sri Lanka as well as representatives of the Mahabodhi Society from Japan, the President of Mahabodhi Society Sri Lanka, community leaders from other religions and common citizenry were in attendance, according to the release. In the evening a special religious ceremony and prayers were organized under the stewardship of Ven. Upatissa Nayaka Thero and attended by the President of Mahabodhi Society of Sri Lanka, Theros of various sects, community leaders etc. The High Commission was represented by the Acting High Commissioner and Director, Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre. The ceremony was marked by an exposition of relics of Arahant Sariputta and Maha Moggallana. Photographs of both events are enclosed for suitable consideration, the release added. Mahabodhi Society is a premier organisation involved in social work, religious affairs and the spread of non-violent Buddhism in Sri Lanka and across the world. Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked his well-wishers for greeting him on his 73rd birthday and said that he is deeply touched and overwhelmed by the special gesture. Deeply touched by the outpouring of wishes today from all over India and the world. I thank each and every person who has shared their wishes. Overwhelmed to see so many people engaging in selfless social work on this day. Every gesture is special and strengthens our collective spirit, PM Modi posted on X. (ANI) The discriminatory sections in the Rules of Business 2009 irritate government officials in Gilgit-Baltistan government Service, who went on strike on September 12 on the day of the caretaker prime minister's arrival to the territory, The News International reported. In June 2023, the members and cabinet of the Gilgit-Baltistan Civil Service Association (GBCSA) managed to effect amendments to the ROB under the guidance of the previous GB cabinet led by then-chief minister Khalid Khurshid Khan, and the objectionable clause was removed from the RoB, among other changes. Section-C (18)(4) of the RoB 2009 of GB prohibits local cadre officials from becoming Additional Chief Secretary (Dev), Home Secretary, and Finance Secretary since these positions [must] be reserved for officers of the All Pakistan Unified Group (APUG). According to The News International, the GBCSA challenged this section in the GB-RoB, claiming that it is colonial, discriminatory, and disrespectful not just to GB government workers but to the entire people of GB. Because GB is not a constitutional province, applying the vacancy-sharing formula is irrational, if not unlawful, according to the GBCSA. The organisation said that the chief secretary recently addressed a letter to the prime minister in July and was successful in having the revisions made to RoB 2009 of GB by the previous cabinet, CM, and governor revoked without consulting proper legal forums, The News International reported. The GBCSA President, Mir Waqar Ahmad, demanded an investigation into the illegal reversal of modifications made in RoB. They stated that their protest would continue uninterrupted until the responsible party was identified. According to GBCSA, there is no merit-based transfer posting policy. Secretaries of departments are transferred on a quarterly basis in the United Kingdom without regard for policy, but rather for refusing to comply with personal orders of the chief minister and his cabinet ministers, causing the entire system to paralyse as no secretary is willing to perform in anticipation of being transferred. (ANI) The Foreign Office Consultations were co-chaired by Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs, Saurabh Kumar and the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Law and concurrently Second Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Singapore, Luke Goh, the Ministry of External Affairs said in an official release. Coming close on the heels of the visit of Prime Minister of Singapore to IndiaLee Hsien Loong for the G20 Summit, the FOC provided an opportunity to follow up on the Leaders discussions and review the robust bilateral relationship. Both sides expressed pleasure with the robust political engagements that occurred this year as India hosted numerous Singaporean Ministers for G20 meetings in various places. The Permanent Secretary also congratulated India for a successful G20 Presidency. Moreover, the two sides discussed areas of ongoing collaboration such as trade and investment, defence & security, fintech, digitalisation, green energy, skill development and people-to-people ties, the MEA release said. They also discussed the progress made on certain development engines highlighted during the maiden meeting of the India-Singapore Ministerial Round-table (ISMR) in September 2022, and they looked forward to the next edition. According to the MEA release, both sides also discussed regional, global and multilateral issues of common interest. The Indian side appreciated Singapore for joining the International Solar Alliance earlier in June this year and thanked Singapore for joining the Global Biofuels Alliance which was launched at the G20 Leaders Summit. Second Permanent Secretary Goh also met the Law Secretary, the release said. Both sides agreed to hold the next round of FOC in Singapore on a mutually convenient date. (ANI) Amnesty International noted that the future and hopes of thousands of Afghan girls are at stake, adding that the prohibition on girls' admission to secondary education in Afghanistan has been in place for two years. This came at a time when two years have passed since the Taliban ban on education rights of Afghan girls. Notably, it was on September 18 2021 when the de-facto authorities had banned girls from attending secondary and high schools in Afghanistan, reported TOLOnews. According to UN Secretary-General Antnio Guterres, September 18 commemorates two years since females were prohibited from entering high school in Afghanistan. Guterres went on to say that this is an unjustified violation of human rights that would have long-term consequences for the whole country. Girls, according to the UN Secretary-General, belong in school."Let them back in," urged Guterres, according to TOLOnews. Afghanistan, a country heavily reliant on aid, lost Western donor support with theTaliban's return to power following theUSandNATO pullout in August 2021. The Afghan economy swiftly collapsed, forcing self-sufficient Afghans to seek humanitarian aid to survive. Because of widespread human rights violations, theTaliban's regime has been under international isolation. Notably, with the resurgence of theTalibanin August 2021 inAfghanistan, the countrys educational system has suffered a significant setback. As a result, girls have been deprived of access to education, and seminaries or religious schools have gradually filled the void left by schools and universities. Afghanistan's women have faced numerous challenges since theTalibanreturned to power in 2021. Girls and women in the war-torn country have no access to education, employment and public spaces. (ANI) Photo: Glacier Media Two men were stabbed in Sooke Saturday evening and were transported to the hospital with serious injuries after being involved what police are calling an altercation between a group of individuals. RCMP went to the 6600 block of Sooke Road around 6 p.m. after receiving reports that a man had been stabbed. Police and members of the public provided first aid for the two victims until a B.C. Ambulance arrived to transport them to hospital, police said in a statement. A 21-year-old man was located nearby and arrested over the incident, police said. Cpl. Alex Berube said that it appears to be an isolated incident with no further risk to the public. The investigation indicated that an altercation erupted between a group of people which eventually led to the victims being stabbed, Berube said in a statement. The events leading up to the altercation are also carefully being investigated. Berube did not provide more details about the case when asked, saying that its not typical for RCMP to release information during an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information about the altercation is asked to call Sooke RCMP at 250-642-5241. [email protected] India rejoices at the inclusion of Karnataka's 'Sacred Ensembles of Hoysalas' on the World Heritage list, the permanent representative of India to UNESCO, Vishal V Sharma said in Riyadh on Monday. Sharma's remarks came after Karnataka's Hoysala temples were included in the UNESCO World Heritage list today. He said, "India rejoices at the inclusion of the Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas on the World Heritage List. On behalf of my country, I offer my thanks to the World Heritage Committee for recognising the outstanding universal value of this nomination under Agenda 45COM.8B.29." "If ever poetry was carved in stone, it is in these monuments of India," he added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed happiness over the inclusion of Karnataka's Hoysala Temples' sacred ensembles in the World Heritage site list and said these temples are a testament to Indias rich cultural heritage. Taking to X,PM Modisaid, More pride for India! The magnificent Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas have been inscribed on the @UNESCOWorld Heritage List. The timeless beauty and intricate details of the Hoysala temples are a testament to India's rich cultural heritage and the exceptional craftsmanship of our ancestors. Today,Karnataka's Hoysala Temples' sacred ensembles have been inscribed on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage list.This comes just a day after Santiniketan, the town in West Bengal, was included in theUNESCOWorld Heritage list on Sunday. "BREAKING!Just inscribed on the @UNESCO#WorldHeritage List: Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas, #India . Congratulations!" theUNESCOwrote on X (formerly known as Twitter) today. Notably, the Hoysala Temples of Belur,Halebid, and Somnathapura inKarnatakathat are now included in theUNESCOWorld Heritage list make them the 42ndUNESCOWorld Heritage Site of India. The Union Government had proposed theHoysala temples of Belur,Halebidand Somnathapura as India's official nomination to theUNESCOWorld Heritage Listfor the year 2022-2023. Yesterday, Santiniketan was inscribed in theUNESCO World Heritage list during the 45th Session of the World Heritage Committee in Saudi Arabia. (ANI) Tel Aviv [Israel], September 18 (ANI/TPS): In a heart-warming tale of determination, resilience, and unbreakable human spirit, Ortal Butvia, a 22-year-old with Downs syndrome, embarked on a journey that many thought impossible. Her dream was simple yet profound to serve in the Israel Defence Forces (IDF). On September 5, 2020, that dream came to fruition, and three years later to the day in 2023, Ortals journey in the military reached an honourable conclusion. She bid farewell to her uniform and is now setting her sights on a chefs hat. Ortals life has been marked by incredible tenacity from the very beginning. Born with a serious heart defect that threatened her existence, she defied the odds and persevered. Her parents, Elitzur and Aviva Butvia were staunch advocates for her inclusion in mainstream education. From preschool through high school, Ortal was determined to learn alongside her peers. However, when her classmates eagerly awaited their military call-up orders, Ortal received an automatic exemption from service due to her condition. I wanted to serve in the IDF for as long as I can remember, Ortal recalled. It was my dream. My parents initially considered National Service for me, but I insisted on being a soldier in the army. National Service is a programme for religious girls to do one or two years of volunteer work after high school in lieu of military service. But Ortal kept her focus on the army. I knew thats where I could give my utmost to my country and my people, she said. Ortals fight for a place in the IDF took a fortunate turn when she appealed to Special in Uniform, a collaborative initiative of the IDF and Jewish National Fund-USA. This program focuses on integrating young people with physical and mental disabilities into the IDF and Israeli society. Over a rigorous three-year program, participants learn vocational and social skills, preparing them for the workforce. Ortals service began with one year of specialized training, followed by two years of regular service in the kitchen of the Julis army base in southern Israel. Preparing food for members of the IDFs Yahalom unit which specializes in combat engineering missions Ortal was in her element. I love cooking and baking, it doesnt matter what, Ortal exclaimed. I love to cook pastas and shawarma. I love to bake challah, cake, and cookies. Everything! Reflecting on Ortals journey, her mother Aviva said, Over the years, she faced so many challenges and bravely confronted them all. These past years in the army empowered her and offered her myriad opportunities to grow and spread her wings. Shes gained so much independence, and responsibility, and her self-confidence has soared. Colonel (res.) Tiran Attia, the director of Special in Uniform, stressed the positive impact of soldiers with special needs on military bases. Not only does their presence enhance their own quality of life, but it also benefits the entire army and the Jewish people as a whole, Attia said. Their optimistic attitude, strong work ethic, and unwavering perseverance create a positive atmosphere that motivates soldiers both with and without disabilities. Close to 1,000 Special In Uniform soldiers from communities across Israel are serving in 45 bases in all branches of the IDF. The program includes Bedouins, Druze and Arabs. The Jewish New Year also marks a new chapter in Ortals life. My next dream is to work in a kitchen, which is what I love doing most. I want to get married and build a home of my own. Were starting a new year now, and I want to send my best wishes to all of [the Jewish nation] for a happy, sweet year filled with success, a sweet, sweet year in which well all realize our dreams! While the Butvia family lives in Kiryat Arba, near Hebron, Ortal will continue to live in a Kiryat Malachi home in southern Israel with other people with Downs syndrome. JNF-USA Executive Director Celine Leeds said, Were so proud of Ortal. Were confident that shell succeed and continue achieving her goals, and we wish her and all of SIUs soldiers the best of luck. (ANI/TPS) US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday expressed his happiness and said that the US will use the Levinson Act and other tools to promote accountability for Iran and other regimes for the cruel practice of wrongful detention of Americans. Secretary Blinken in an official press release said, Act, which bolsters our ability to bring home hostages and wrongfully detained U.S. nationals held overseas, and President Bidens Executive Order 14078, which builds on the Levinson Act and reinforces the tools to deter and disrupt hostage-taking and wrongful detention by other countries... We will use the Levinson Act and other tools to promote accountability for Iran and other regimes for the cruel practice of wrongful detention. The official press release informed that Siamak Namazi, Emad Shargi, Morad Tahbaz, and two other U.S. citizens who wish to remain private have departed Iran and are on their way back to the United States to be reunited with their families. They are joined by two of their relatives, also U.S. citizens, who had been prevented from leaving Iran. In the press release, the US Secretary recognised the abduction of US citizen, Bob Levinson and said that the Iranian regime has yet to account for his fate. He said, The Iranian regime has inflicted unimaginable pain on Bobs family, and they have yet to account for his fate. We once again call upon the Iranian regime to give a full accounting of what happened to Bob Levinson. Quoting the press release, several of these individuals have spent years imprisoned as part of the Iranian regimes cruel practice of wrongful detention, but today they are all returning home to their loved ones. Antony Blinken also lauded the Joe Biden-led US government and said that the safety and security of U.S. citizens is the utmost priority for him and the US President. He added, Under President Bidens leadership, we have now secured the release of more than 30 wrongfully detained Americans around the world. I am grateful to everyone from the State Department and across the government who worked tirelessly to bring home our U.S. citizens. Blinken emphasised that the US will not rest until every wrongfully detained American reaches home safely. He said, I would like to express our deep appreciation for the indispensable role played by the State of Qatar over the last two years in mediating this arrangement. He also thanked the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and senior Qatari officials for their steadfast involvement and assistance in securing the release of U.S. citizens and establishing the Humanitarian Channel in Qatar for Iran to purchase humanitarian goods like food, medicine, medical devices, and agricultural products. In the end, the US State Secretary reiterated the US warning for all its citizens not to visit Iran and said the result would not be the same for all the citizens. He said, I want to reiterate the State Departments clear warning to U.S. citizens: do not travel to Iran. While this group of U.S. citizens has been released, there is no way to guarantee a similar result for other Americans who decide to travel to Iran despite the U.S. governments longstanding warning against doing so. The release added, We continue to work with like-minded countries to deter future hostage-taking and hold Iran and other regimes accountable for such actions, including through actions we are taking today. U.S. citizens should not travel to Iran for any reason, and I call on any U.S. citizens in Iran to depart immediately. (ANI) Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Monday announced that he will participate in the BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting on the sidelines of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) scheduled on September 20 in New York, USA. Taking to his official handle on social media platform X, the Russian Foreign Minister posted, "On September 20, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will take part in a Meeting of the BRICS Foreign Ministers on the sidelines of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in New York, USA." Lavrov stated further that the participants will discuss on topical international issues, along with the issues mentioned on the agenda of the 78th session of the UNGA. "The meeting participants will exchange views on topical international issues, including those on the agenda of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly," he said in his post. https://x.com/mfa_russia/status/1703731515941679510?s=20 He added that the ministers will discuss cooperation in the BRICS format where he will also share his plans for Russia's upcoming BRICS Chairmanship 2024 with his colleagues. Lavrov posted, "The Ministers will discuss cooperation in the BRICS format, including opportunities for strengthening coordination in the leading multilateral platforms and implementation of the decisions of the 15th BRICS Summit (Johannesburg, August 22-24). Sergey Lavrov will inform his colleagues about plans for Russia's upcoming BRICS Chairmanship in 2024. #UNGA78" The 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly will feature the High-Level General Debate from September 19-September 23. The session represents a crucial milestone in the journey towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) since it marks the halfway point to the global goals deadline. At the SDG Summit, leaders will review the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 17 SDGs, providing high-level political guidance on transformative and accelerated actions, according to the United Nations Women statement. The outcome will be a negotiated political declaration. Earlier, during the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and his Russian counterpart Lavrov had exchanged views on bilateral and international issues. The two held talks on a wide range of bilateral and international issues, interactions within the UN, G20 and BRICS, as well as discussions on practical steps to further develop trade and economic cooperation, logistics and financial interaction, according to the Russian Foreign Ministry. Putin also announced Russia as chairman of BRICS next year. "In our chairmanship, we will have the following mottos- strengthening multilateralism for global development and security; we plan to have some 200 political, economic and public events; BRICS summit is scheduled for October 2024 in the city of Kazan..." he said. (ANI) Members of Chinas persecuted communities and rights groups staged a peaceful protest outside the InterContinental Hotel in Mayfair, London on Sunday, where the Chinese Embassy was hosting its 74th anniversary celebration of the founding of the Peoples Republic of China (PRC). Ahead of the October 1 PRC National Day, this secretive official function of the Chinese Embassy stated, "A gala dinner to celebrate the 74th anniversary of the founding of the Peoples Republic of China, attended by Ambassador Zheng Zeguang and other embassy officials." Attending the protest were leading activists and leaders of Chinas persecuted communities and rights groups, including Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities, Hong Kong Aid, Hong Kong Liberty, Stop Uyghur Genocide, Tibetan Community UK and Uyghur Community UK. The protesters were heard chanting No celebrations - Chinas Dictators, No Celebrations - Genocides demand Justice, Free Tibet Free East Turkestan Free Hong Kong. Chinese officials were seen taking photos of the peaceful protesters. The coalition of rights groups are now getting ready for their next annual protest, on October 1, when their members and supporters will join in from Londons Trafalgar Square to the Chinese Embassy. After the protest, Rahima Mahmut, executive director of Stop Uyghur Genocide, posted on her social media handle, This evening, officials from the Chinese Embassy marked their National Celebration Day with a dinner at the InterContinental Hotel in London. Together with our friends from Hong Kong and Tibet, we organized a small protest outside the hotel to emphasize that there can be no true celebration amid genocide and dictatorship. Tenzin Kunga, chairman of Tibetan Community, UK posted on X, We made sure that our voices calling for #FreeTibet #FreeHongkong #FreeUyghurs echoed through the hotel doors to those attending the Chinese event. Our groups united in #resistance. The Peoples Republic of China was founded soon after the Communist Party of China (CCP) defeated the Kuomintang (The Nationalist - Republic of China (ROC), now Taiwan) on October 1, 1949. Former Chinese President Mao Zedong ordered his PLA troops to invade Tibet. Since the CCP came to power through brutal force, immeasurable atrocities and destruction have been committed by the Chinese regime, including tens of millions of people killed, the protesters claimed. The alleged Uyghur genocide in Chinas occupied East Turkestan is an illustration of the CCPs atrocities on the Uyghur people. Over 800,000 Tibetan children are forcefully being admitted in Chinas colonial boarding schools with the main object of annihilation of the Tibetan identity, language and culture, the protesters claimed, adding that Mongolians still cannot exercise their native language rights in Southern Mongolia, which is still under Chinas occupation. Since the CCP imposed their 'National Security Law', the fundamental rights of the people of Hong Kong, including the rights to protest and free speech, have allegedly been taken away by the Chinese authorities. Consequently, several hundred thousands of Hongkongers have fled their homeland, the protesters claimed. (ANI) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia took to their official handle on social media platform 'X' to post, "Foreign Ministers Sergey Lavrov and Wang Yi meet in Moscow #RussiaChina." https://x.com/mfa_russia/status/1703799674728046632?s=20 Wang arrived in Russia on September 18 and will conclude his visit on September 21, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Foreign Minister Yi is expected to discuss the Ukraine conflict with his Russian counterpart Lavrov, CNN reported. They are also expected to hold discussions on a wide range of bilateral cooperation issues, which include a detailed exchange of views on issues related to a settlement in Ukraine", the Russian Foreign Ministry informed through a statement last week. The meeting follows closely after the summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, which the US has warned could lead to Pyongyang supplying Moscow with munitions for its war in Ukraine, according to CNN. Lavrov said Moscow wants to develop equal and fair cooperation with North Korea despite sanctions imposed on Pyongyang by the UN Security Council, Al Jazeera reported on Sunday. (ANI) Signalling a further souring of bilateral ties, Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly on Monday said an Indian diplomat in the country had been expelled, Al Jazeera reported. The expulsion comes in light of PM Justin Trudeau's statement alleging an Indian hand in the killing of wanted Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Joly said the Canadian government had expelled an Indian diplomat, the head of Indias external intelligence agency, R&AW, in Canada, over allegations of the country's involvement in the killing of the Khalistani leader, according to Al Jazeera. However, she did not provide any further details on the diplomat's name or the place from where he was expelled, according to the report. We see this possible breach of sovereignty as completely unacceptable, and so, that is also why were coming (out) with this information (of the expulsion of the Indian diplomat) today, Joly said at a news conference, Al Jazeera reported. Earlier, on Monday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of being behind the fatal shooting of the wanted Khalistani leader, CBC News reported. Nijjar was gunned down outside a gurdwara, in a parking area in Canada's Surrey, BC on June 18. According to CBC News, Canada, PM Trudeau said his country's national security officials had reasons to believe that "agents of the Indian government" carried out the killing of the Canadian citizen, who also served as the president of Surrey's Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara. "Canadian security agencies have been actively pursuing credible allegations of a potential link between agents of the Government of India and the killing of a Canadian citizen, Hardeep Singh Nijjar," Trudeau said. He stressed that the involvement of a foreign hand or government in the killing of a Canadian citizen in Canada was unacceptable. "Any involvement of a foreign government in the killing of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil is an unacceptable violation of our sovereignty. It is contrary to the fundamental rules by which free, open, and democratic societies conduct themselves," Trudeau added. He also urged the Indian government to "cooperate with Canada to get to the bottom of this matter", CBC News reported. He claimed that some Indo-Canadians were "angry" and "perhaps frightened right now", adding, "Let us not allow this to change us". (ANI) Months after Khalistan Tiger Force chief Hardeep Singh Nijjar was shot dead in Canada, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday accused the Indian government of being behind this fatal shooting, CBC News reported. Nijjar, who was wanted in India, was gunned down outside a gurdwara, in a parking area in Canada's Surrey, BC on June 18. Hailing from Bharsinghpur village in Punjab's Jalandhar, Nijjar was based in Surrey and had been declared "absconder" by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). According to CBC News, Canada, PM Trudeau said his country's national security officials had reasons to believe that "agents of the Indian government" carried out the killing of the Canadian citizen, who also served as the president of Surrey's Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara. "Canadian security agencies have been actively pursuing credible allegations of a potential link between agents of the Government of India and the killing of a Canadian citizen, Hardeep Singh Nijjar," Trudeau said. He stressed that the involvement of a foreign hand or government in the killing of a Canadian citizen in Canada was unacceptable. "Any involvement of a foreign government in the killing of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil is an unacceptable violation of our sovereignty. It is contrary to the fundamental rules by which free, open, and democratic societies conduct themselves," Trudeau added. He informed further that he was coordinating with Canadian allies on this issue. "As you would expect, we have been working closely and coordinating with our allies on this very serious matter," he said. Trudeau also urged the Indian government to "cooperate with Canada to get to the bottom of this matter", CBC News reported. He claimedthat some Indo-Canadians were "angry" and "perhaps frightened right now", adding, "Let us not allow this to change us". Earlier, the NIA in July, last year, announced a cash reward of Rs 10 lakh on Nirjar in connection with the killing of a Hindu priest in Jalandhar. "Hardeep Singh Nijjar is wanted by the National Investigation Agency in NIA case in the conspiracy hatched by Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) operating under Nijjar, to kill a Hindu priest at Jalandhar," the NIA had said in a release. (ANI) At the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, there were about 1,500 military personnel to defend the country's south, mostly in Kherson Oblast, while the Russians had up to 20,000 people and a 20-fold advantage in equipment. Source: Major General Andrii Sokolov, who at the beginning of the invasion was Deputy Commander of the Operational Command Pivden (South) and was in charge of the Pivden grouping of troops, in an interview with Ukrainska Pravda Quote: "The Pivden grouping of troops was founded on a rotational basis. That is, some people came to be replaced by other people later. If we consider the total number of combat combined arms units, at the time of the invasion there were about 1,500 people. In particular, the 59th Brigade had approximately 1,300 personnel. Why so few? Because the brigade had just left the Joint Forces Operation zone in December and was restoring its combat capability. The recovery process had not yet been completed when they were assigned to our group. They were moved to the Oleshky Sands training field. The staffing of this brigade was about 60%. The artillery unit was incomplete, because two divisions were training in Divychky [a training ground in Kyiv Oblast ed.], and the engineering support group, the sappers, was also training in Kamianets-Podilskyi. Plus, there were about 250 people in the 137th Marine Battalion, which was also 50% staffed. And out of these 250 people, some were conscripts who were engaged in stabilisation operations on the border with Crimea." Details: Sokolov explained that the stabilisation efforts involved people stretched over a stretch of up to 200 kilometres with observation posts along the entire border, monitoring Russian activity to ensure that there was no illegal crossing. Sokolov said that about one platoon (15-45 people) was at the stronghold in front of the Chonhar bridge; another platoon was at the Kalanchak checkpoint, and another platoon stronghold was near the village of Kairy the Chaplynka checkpoint, opposite the Titan plant. In fact, only three strongholds opposed the Russians on the first day of the full-scale war. Quote: "Of course, this was not enough even for a stabilisation operation. During the escalation, it was planned to have up to two brigades: one on the Kherson front (it had to perform tasks and conduct stabilisation operations), and one on the Melitopol front. And one battalion, which as an advanced unit stood directly on the border. But I did not even have these forces, I had only one brigade. There were no forces at all on the Melitopol front. I sent my reserve, a tank company, there to cover it somehow." Details: Sokolov said that he reported on the lack of forces to Serhii Naiev, the commander of the Joint Forces. In his opinion, there was no reinforcement in the south because there were not enough assets and personnel, as the Russians had concentrated their troops in a large area from Belarus to Crimea. 1,500 people were the grouping for stabilisation operations. If the Russians had acted with sabotage groups and illegal formations, if the situation had developed as in the east in 2014, then there would have been two brigades. "There was also a separate plan for defence. There should have been four brigades: two mechanised or combined arms brigades and two territorial defence brigades. Imagine four brigades in the plan and one brigade in reality. This is certainly not enough," Sokolov said. There were supposed to be 2 brigades of the Territorial Defence Forces, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, but they had not even been assembled at the beginning of the war. Sokolov received the Zaporizhzhia 110th Brigade of the Ukrainian Territorial Defence Forces under his command at the end of the day on 24 February 2022, while the Kherson Brigade was never put at his disposal because it had not been assembled. On 23 February, Sokolov received an order from his superiors to move out as a brigade and take up defensive positions, and he ordered it to leave the training ground near Oleshky [Kherson Oblast], but the defenders did not have enough time to take up defensive positions. There were no prepared positions on the lines where they were supposed to go. "The positions occupied by the 137th Battalion immediately on the border with Crimea were equipped, and we have been improving them constantly (since 2014 ed.). But the defensive positions in the depths were practically only on paper," Sokolov explained. Quote: "I received a report from the commander of the 137th Battalion that the enemy had started moving their motorised convoys in our direction across the border (on 24 February). Accordingly, I ordered that they act according to the withdrawal plan. Those who did not receive the command acted independently. It was planned and discussed in advance... The 59th Brigade, unfortunately, was never able to reach its defensive lines: it did not have time, there was not enough time. They actually met the war within the 241st training ground in Oleshky. When I realised that they would not have time to reach their defensive lines because the enemy was already actively advancing, I ordered that they switch to defence where they were. This was partially fulfilled, but under the enemy's pressure, the brigade began to retreat to the right bank of the Dnipro River." Details: According to the Major General, approximately 25 battalion tactical groups of Russian invaders (about 20,000 soldiers) were advancing in the south. This force also included a command and control system and "more massive units with artillery, air defence systems, intelligence, engineering and electronic warfare units". The 22nd Army Brigade in its entirety, at least a division of the 58th North Caucasian Army, which comprised the most prepared troops, and about half of the 7th Air Assault Division, were acting against the defenders of Ukraine in that area. The enemy forces also included artillery, up to 140 planes and 60 helicopters, and the Russian Black Sea Fleet's naval warehouse. Sokolov added that the enemy had a complete advantage in both personnel and equipment. In addition, Ukrainian air defence did not show any signs of life on the first day, so the Russian invaders had complete air superiority in the south. 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! An additional $1.7 million was secured to develop 100 multi-family rental units at a four-story apartment building in downtown Bonner Springs, U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids announced. A building at 120 Oak St., the site of an old Thriftway grocery store, was demolished a few months ago with plans for the $17 million development. Bonner Springs officials expect downtown businesses to see significant increase in patronage with the units. Mayor Jeff Harrington said the developers hope to break ground in the spring with the building along West Front Street open in fall 2025. Davids, a Kansas Democrat, said the funding stemmed in part from the American Rescue Plan. The federal grant, she said, will help build and rehabilitate affordable housing in our state, decreasing housing instability and easing housing costs over time. The project was one of 20 across rural areas in Kansas to receive a total of $19 million from the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation. In a statement, County Administrator David Johnston said the additional units in western Wyandotte County will help us address the growing demand for quality, affordable housing countywide.